Shindaleria: Hierarchy

The ocean is in constant flow and as such there is little formal structure to the worship of Mother Ocean. Still, there are those that are blessed by her and thus receive her gifts of wisdom. Those members of Mother Ocean's clergy that are new to the ranks of her gifts are called Salps, the tiniest of sea creatures yet vital to the life of all. They drift in ocean currents and provide for the life of others in many ways. The transition from Salp to Nekton is a slow one. Nektons too are swimmers of the ocean, indeed the name is derived from a long forgotten elven dialect meaning swimmer. They travel the waves and currents constantly in motion. In time, a Nekton evolves the wisdom of the waves and settles into a Naulti to reflect and store that which they have learned in their times adrift. Those closest to Mother Ocean and well versed in her ways and wisdom are referred to as Naulti in veneration of the giant naultil snails that roam the ocean floors. They have few enemies but are respected for they are not defenseless. They can innately channel the Al'Noth when severely threatened. Their immense shells with many chambers and iridescent colors are prized possessions of the sea folk. It is said that a shell given freely by the snail imparts wisdom to its new owner.

Elections and Organizations

The very nature and vastness of the oceans preclude those in service to Mother Ocean to adopt the trapping of their landtrapped cousins. In the vastness of the oceans, a Nekton may go for years without directly contacting another of their kind or, if the pull of the waves is right, may find themselves drawn to a spot to receive the wisdom of their peers. Much of what happens under the blanket of the ocean's waves is not understood by those who have not given themselves to float in her currents.