A'terian Sea (æ-tir-i-æn)
Known primarily as the home of the great underwater kingdom A'teris of the Depths, the A'terian Sea is a vast space within the context of the Melirior Ocean bordered by the convergence of four current systems. The existence of this sea within an ocean gyre creates a unique ecosystem characterized by the abnormally calm waters of sea water close to harbour while enjoying greater depths.
The sea is distinct from other parts of the ocean not only for its cultural significance to Sirens, but also for the various plant species that can only grow in this region due to the calmer waters within the current boundary, as well as the noticeably lighter blue hue of the waters.
Geography
The A'terian Sea is a part of the Melirior Ocean bounded not by land, but instead by the junction of four ocean currents that form a counterclockwise flowing ocean gyre. The four currents joining to form the boundaries of the sea are the Seraphan Stream from the west, the Stross Current from the south, the Delios Undercurrent on the eastern side, and the North Meliric Current from the north. The closest land mass to the sea is that of Seraphay to the east though there are also the far more distant islands of the Ritoon.
The sea reaches an average depth of 4km in this region, deeper than many other areas of the ocean. It covers a space roughly 1700km wide and 3400km long.
Ecosystem
Each of the four currents making up the boundary of the A'terian Sea bring with them marine plants and refuse that have been carried along in their currents and are then deposited in the sea basin. This constant influx of materials are used by the species native to the sea as well as to the Siren population as building materials, food sources, and tools.
This region is also the native home to a distinct species of giant seaweed called A'terian Red Kelp that is remarkable for it's exceptional tensile strength and flexibility. Other species of note, found almost exclusively within the A'terian Sea are the Puffing Actinopryl, Broson Urchin, and Jumping Coral.
Ecosystem Cycles
The A'terian Sea is a part of many migratory paths for the various species of aquatic life native to other regions of the Ocean so there is a constantly changing diversity of fauna throughout the year. The sea's calm waters make an easy resting point for those species travelling currents. Some of the most notable patterns are those of the Glass Shell Turtle, the Striped Coricinth, Bantolid Eel, and the Pink Jevv. Each of these creatures moves through the region at different points throughout the year causing great seasonal alteration in what can too often be considered an empty ocean.
This element of the sea, along with the changing array of materials that are deposited by currents have resulted in highly adaptable species who can have radically changing characteristics depending on the time of year.
Localized Phenomena
The sea is characterized by relatively calm waters that separate it from the rest of the Melirior Ocean as strong wind currents do not pass directly through this region of the ocean. As such, boats passing through the A'terian must be cognizant that traditional means of wind power will be significantly less effective here. Sirens from the Wayfarer's Guild can be found around the sea borders where ships generally stall out and will be able to help move larger vessels through the water for a fee. To avoid delays, however, the Guild is best contacted before sailing so crews are not reliant on scouts to find them.
The sea can also be defined by its distinctive colour which is of a notably lighter hue than other regions of the ocean and features water of remarkable clarity. From the surface, depths of roughly 100m are visible without augmentation. As a result, some of the many diverse species of fauna as well as Sirens going about their days can be seen by sailors overhead.
Tourism
As is indicative from the clear water and calm conditions, even just sailing over this expanse of sea makes for a pleasant trip for all sailors. Floating docks and buildings anchored to the city below serve as a wayfinding point for tourists who wish to interact with the kingdom of A'teris, found at the very heart of the A'terian Sea where the water is calmest. There are some attractions above the sea, depending on season, but most of what captures the interest of travelers is what happens beneath the waves.
Non-aquatic tourists will find their options limited when it comes to exploring the city below. These methods are typically fairly expensive however the experience is so unique that most who have explored A'teris say the expense is well worth it. What is considered by most to be the most authentic method requires assistance from a Siren who will bind the mind of the explorer to the body of a fish, fostering an out of body experience, allowing the subject to explore A'teris in an organic way. Other options include submersible tour shuttles that can offer a more distant view of A'teris and are especially wonderful for viewing the migratory patterns of various sea life that comes through the currents since the shuttles can travel at quick speeds.
The kingdom of A'teris is a tiered city with buildings floating at varying depths based on the buoyancy properties of the materials used in construction, and are tethered together through a web of Sargast kelp. This makes it accessible to visitors even when means of visiting the deeper reaches are not available.
A'teris is well known not only for the unique architecture and underwater sights of the great city, but of course for the Siren song as well. Performances can be heard above or below the waves and are always enchanting. Artisans of the depths also boast a distinct art style that is full of movement and the circular nature of the currents surrounding their sea. Viewing galleries as well as hunting for souvenirs is a common way for tourists to spend time in A'teris.
Other attractions are largely linked to the natural phenomenon found in the sea, primarily linked to the migration patterns of different species that make for incredibly beautiful sights. The most popular of these migrations is that of the Pink Jevv which is also linked to the Irradiance, the largest festival of the year for the A'terian Sirens. During this time there are more attractions both above and below the surface for visitors to enjoy as well as watching the glittery path of the Jevv as they make their migration.
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Sea
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