Ocean. Revered for their size and presence, Whales play an important role in the marine ecosystem and have long been a subject of fascination for coastal cultures.
Physical Appearance
Whales in Helerin are large, sleek creatures, typically growing between 50 and 70 feet in length. They have smooth, dark grey or blue-grey skin, often with lighter patterns or scars from their long journeys through the sea. Their broad tails are powerful, propelling them gracefully through the water, while their elongated bodies taper to a narrow head. Whales have large, wide mouths with baleen plates for filtering plankton and small fish, though some species have large teeth for catching larger prey.
Habitat
Whales primarily inhabit the deep, open ocean, preferring the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the Gamanaean Ocean. They can often be seen around the Seynan Islands during their long migratory journeys, particularly in the summer and autumn months when they come closer to shore to feed. These creatures are known to dive deep beneath the surface to hunt for food, though they are also frequently spotted surfacing for air, blowing water through their blowholes.
Behaviour
Whales are highly migratory animals, traveling vast distances across the oceans of Helerin. They are typically solitary or found in small pods, though during breeding or feeding seasons, larger gatherings may occur. Known for their deep, resonant songs, Whales use sound to communicate across long distances, often heard echoing through the waters. Their diet consists mainly of plankton, small fish, and krill, which they filter through their baleen plates, though some larger species may hunt larger prey.
Geographic Distribution
Whales are most commonly found in the deeper waters of the Gamanaean Ocean, though they migrate along the coasts of the Seynan Islands, Remon, and even Mar Mabon during their seasonal travels. They are a regular sight near the islands during summer, when they come closer to shore to feed and raise their young. Their migration routes are well-known to coastal communities, with Whale sightings often marking the changing of seasons.
Interaction with People
While Whales are not actively hunted in most parts of Helerin, they hold a significant place in the cultural and spiritual lives of coastal people. The arrival of Whales near the shores is often seen as a blessing, and festivals such as the Bloodshores whale hunt in the Seynan Islands celebrate the creature’s majesty. Occasionally, stranded Whales are harvested for their valuable oil, bones, and meat, though their majestic presence often inspires reverence more than exploitation.
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