Freshwater creatures

The rivers, lakes, and streams of the Helerin Archipelago are home to a diverse and thriving array of freshwater creatures. These ecosystems, from the fast-flowing mountain rivers to the still, deep lakes, support a wide range of fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. Freshwater creatures play crucial roles in the delicate balance of predator and prey, ensuring the health of these waterways while providing food and resources for both wildlife and people.
Many of these species are celebrated in local cultures, with fishing and hunting practices evolving over centuries to make use of the natural bounty provided by Helerin’s freshwater environments. Whether revered for their beauty, feared for their aggression, or prized for their flavor, these creatures are an essential part of the archipelago’s life and lore.

Fish

The rivers and lakes of the Helerin Archipelago are home to a diverse array of freshwater fish that contribute to the health and balance of their ecosystems. From the swift, shimmering Aldren to the fearsome Zaribon, these creatures play crucial roles in maintaining the intricate web of life that thrives in the waters of Helerin. Whether they are prey for larger animals, feared predators, or prized catches for local fishers, these freshwater fish are integral to both the natural and cultural landscapes of the archipelago.

• Aldren: A small, shimmering silver fish found in fast-flowing rivers, known for its speed and agility. Aldren are vital to maintaining river ecosystems.
• Barask: A large, aggressive predator that lurks in deep lakes, feared for its powerful jaws and territorial nature.
• Darvion: A medium-sized fish prized for its delicate, flavorful meat, found in slow-moving rivers and a staple in many riverside communities.
• Farshi: A small, brown fish with toxic flesh, found in both rivers and lakes. Its presence is often regarded as an ill omen.
• Gorlana: A tiny, silver-scaled fish that moves in large, synchronized schools. While not caught for food, it plays a vital role in the ecosystem.
• Jolmakri: A long, slender fish with a distinct black stripe, abundant in rivers and lakes. Valued for its firm flesh, it is a staple for many communities.
• Karree: A large, aggressive fish with sharp scales and teeth, found in rivers and lakes. Feared for its attacks on both wildlife and people.
• Melfinon: A small, silver-scaled fish prized by anglers for its agility and by locals for its mild, tender flesh.
• Nylotha: A long, dark blue or purple scavenger found in deep rivers and lakes. Its oily flesh is unpalatable, and it is often considered a bad omen.
• Rethanal: A graceful, iridescent fish found in calm lakes and rivers, admired for its beauty but rarely caught for food.
• Thalkar: A fearsome, large predator known for its aggressive hunting in the rivers of northern Remon and Forbin. It is feared by locals due to occasional attacks on people.
• Zaribon: A large, robust fish found in the lakes and rivers of southern Teros and northern Mar Mabon. It is both feared and sought after by fishers.

Other creatures

Alongside the fish that inhabit Helerin's rivers and lakes, a diverse array of other freshwater creatures play essential roles in the ecosystems of the archipelago. These amphibians and crustaceans are vital to maintaining the balance of predator and prey, while some have become culturally and economically significant to the people who live near these waterways.

• Frog: Found in wetlands and rivers across Helerin, frogs are known for their distinctive calls and their role in controlling insect populations. Some species are brightly colored and toxic, while others are camouflaged and harmless.
• Irrilan: A large, predatory amphibian native to the swamps and rivers of Teros and northern Remon. Irrilans are feared for their aggression and territorial nature, often attacking those who venture too close to their hunting grounds.
• Kressarass: A large, reddish-brown crayfish with powerful claws, found in rivers and streams throughout Helerin. Highly prized for its tender meat, the Kressarass is a popular catch in many river communities.
• Noddumm: A giant toad species inhabiting the swamps and wetlands of Helerin, particularly the Festermere in Teros Major. Known for their immense size and territorial aggression, Noddumms are dangerous to both wildlife and people who stray into their territory.
• Salamander: Agile and elusive, salamanders are found in moist, shaded environments across Helerin’s forests and wetlands. They play a crucial role in controlling insect populations and are seen as indicators of a healthy ecosystem.
• Toad: A common amphibian found in the drier regions of Helerin, toads are resilient creatures that thrive in arid environments. Their warty, rough skin and squat bodies make them well-suited to burrowing and surviving harsher conditions.