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OVERALL SETTING/BACKGROUND OF THE WORLD:

The Siren!Submas AU is set in the ocean around Unova and in the region of Unova itself. (For the sake of simplicity and in an attempt to connect the world of Unova back to our current reality — given that Unova is based on the US — Unova's ocean will be depicted as a moderate temperature ocean. Think the east coast of the US type of water + climate.) Also included in this AU is an underwater tunnel system that serves as a similar sort of system to the Unovan Subway. (See Unovan Sea Transit for more details). The description of Unova on land will be somewhat limited, as most of the story either takes place in the sea or in specific locations, so keep that in mind when coming into this AU.

• MAP OF LAND LOCATIONS:

https://www.tumblr.com/swiftsilverfeather/804411583233130496/guys-i-only-have-one-more-section-of-my

• ARE THERE POKEMON?

- Yes! In this world, there are Pokémon. The water Pokémon of this AU tend to join packs of merfolk and live together with merfolk in harmony. Some even have bonds like trainers and Pokémon would on land, but they do not really battle the same. In fact, they do not really battle at all. The only 'battles' they engage in are for survival (or sometimes play if the Pokémon is young.) Battling is not really a competitive sport underwater like it is on land.

- As for Ingo and Emmet's Pokémon teams specifically, they do exist in this world. Though they do not really battle like they would in canon nor do most of them actively live with Ingo and Emmet in the ocean. Their land dwelling Pokémon live in the beach house in Castelia (See BEACH HOUSE section for more information.) They guard the house and help merfolk that pass through get supplies for their journeys. (See SEA TO LAND section for more information about merfolks on land.) Despite not seeing them as often, Ingo and Emmet have a great relationship with their Pokémon and are happily received whenever the twins do spend time on land. (See INGO AND EMMET'S PART OF THE STORY - REWARD FOR THEIR BRAVERY for more information about them on land.)

POKEMON TEAMS:

• Ingo's Chandelure (F): Starlight - MET AT AGE 10

How did they meet?

She was his first Pokémon. They met a couple years after Ingo was adopted into the Unova Ocean Pack (See INGO AND EMMET'S PART OF THE STORY - ORIGINS for more information). Ingo was swimming around near the surface by the Castelia docks when he heard crying coming from one of the 'quiet docks' (a small and mostly unused or abandoned dock that is relatively hidden from the general public). When he went to investigate, he found a Litwick that had been abandoned by her trainer. Naturally, she was very wary of Ingo at first due to him being from the water (and her being a fire type), but he managed to get on her good side after staying and talking to her for the whole night. That Litwick made her home on the dock and Ingo would visit her as often as he could, bringing her dead fish Pokémon as gifts (so she could eat their souls) and telling her all about his world. That went on for a couple months before she bound herself to Ingo (binding is a soul connection where a ghost type can sort of tie their soul to that of another living being. This creates a telepathic link between them) and Ingo gave her the name Starlight — since he met her under the light of the stars.

• Ingo's Haxorus (F): Wave - MET AT AGE 13

How did they meet?

She was Ingo's second Pokémon. They met when Ingo was in his early teenage years during a storm that had blown through the east side of Unova. It was so powerful that it was a serious threat to the safety of the pack, so Ingo and Emmet were sent out with some of the other adult merfolk to keep debris from reaching the nest. Ingo was guarding closer to the shore with his brother when he heard something screaming in the waves. Of course, he was quick to take off after the sound, wanting to help whatever was in danger. Ingo ended up finding an Axew drowning in the water after being thrown into the sea by the wind. So, he saved her and helped keep her above the water through the rest of the storm. Once the storm ended, he tried to take her back to the shore and see her off, but she refused to leave him. And so, Ingo named her Wave and took her to live on the abandoned dock with Starlight.

• Ingo's Garbodor (F): Buoy - MET AT AGE 18

How did they meet?

She was Ingo's third Pokémon. He met her after an argument with Emmet about his song, which ended with both of them saying hurtful things to each other. (See INGO AND EMMET'S PART OF THE STORY - MAJOR ARGUMENT/BIG CHANGES for more information). In an effort to calm himself down, Ingo left and swam up to the surface. He ended up along the shore of the West Nimbasa River, lost in his head about the argument. That lack of awareness almost led to him getting caught by a group of humans, so he fled back towards the ocean and got swept up in a current that flushed him into a cove along the west shore of Unova. Panicked and still shaken, Ingo decided to just rest on the beach for a little while. That is where he ran into a small Trubbish who was being picked on by bird Pokémon. Ingo helped chase the Pokémon away and ended up holding the Trubbish in his lap. The two of them spent the rest of the night together, talking about whatever was on their minds — Ingo's main problem being about his brother and their home. Then when the sun rose, the Trubbish offered to let him and his twin use the cove as a home. Ingo was reluctant to accept, but eventually agreed. In return, he gifted the Trubbish with a name; Buoy.

• Ingo's Klinklang (N/A): Click - MET AT AGE 20

How did they meet?

They were Ingo's fourth Pokémon. He met them while he was wandering around on land with Emmet. They were just about to head back into the water near Aspertia Beach when they heard a commotion coming from some bushes towards the treeline. Despite feeling sick (see SEA TO LAND - CONSEQUENCES for more information), Ingo and his brother ventured into the woods where they found two Klang tangled in a bush. According to the Klang, they had gotten into an argument which led to a battle which then led to them getting stuck in the bushes. Ingo and Emmet, naturally, laughed with the Klang as they went about untangling the two Pokemon. It took them some time and both sets of twins were exhausted by the end of it, but eventually the Klang were freed. As a token of their gratitude — and because the Klang found Ingo and Emmet endearing — they asked to join Ingo and Emmet's teams. Thus, they were dubbed Click and Clack and sent to live in the Beach House the twins had recently been given (See BEACH HOUSE for more information).

• Ingo's Crustle (M): Seashell - MET AT AGE 23

How did they meet?

He was Ingo's fifth Pokémon. He met him while he was on a nighttime stroll with Emmet. Shortly after the Unovan Sea Transit system started gaining popularity, the twins were taking their first break from work and trying to relax on land. On their walk, Ingo ended up tripping over a Dwebble, which led to a battle. Since he had Starlight with him at the time, Ingo battled the Dwebble and won. Of course, Ingo apologized for his actions and the twins continued on with their night. Unbeknownst to him, the Dwebble had taken to following him around, as he respected Ingo after losing the battle. He followed Ingo around for three days before being caught by Emmet and confessing. This led to Ingo accepting the Dwebble onto his team, gifting him with the name Seashell.

• Ingo's Excadrill (M): Burrow - MET AT AGE 28

How did they meet?

He was Ingo's sixth Pokémon. He met him on a visit to Driftveil City with Clay. The two of them were wandering around in the mines, talking about his uncle Drayden when he was cornered into a battle by an angry Excadrill. Ingo battled with his whole team, eventually winning with only one Pokémon left on his team. After the battle, Ingo and Clay healed the Excadrill and asked why it attacked randomly. They were told that the Excadrill was being forced out of the caves and had nowhere else to go, which led to them lashing out at the first people he saw. Ingo took pity on the Excadrill and offered to let him live in the Beach House with the rest of his team and the Excadrill reluctantly accepted. A couple months later, the Excadrill was fully integrated into the family and accepted the name Burrow.

• Emmet's Eelektross (M): Lightning - MET AT AGE 6

How did they meet?

He was Emmet's first Pokémon. They met after Emmet was adopted into the Unova Ocean Pack, as he was given to Emmet because of his lack of song. Lightning is considered a support Pokémon that works with Jelly and Coral to assist Emmet. Lightning is able to send longer signals and louder calls through the water, so Emmet will often use Lightning to communicate with other merfolk across the ocean. When not working, Lightning is a close companion to both Ingo and Emmet. He lives with the twins in the ocean, so he spends more time with the brothers than most of the team. Emmet gifted Lightning his name because of how fast he was when he was a little Tynamo — just like Emmet.

• Emmet's Galvanula (F): Princess - MET AT AGE 11

How did they meet?

She was Emmet's second Pokémon. He met her after a small storm. Ingo had dragged him up to the surface to check out the debris that had been tossed into the ocean — he wanted to search for anything interesting. Emmet had swam away from his brother and was searching through some driftwood when he heard a small buzzing sound. After investigating, Emmet ends up finding a tiny and soaked Joltik clinging to a bigger piece of wood. At first, she was terrified of Emmet, curling up into a shivering ball and shocking him. It took a little while and calm words, but eventually he coxed the scared bug type into his hands. Emmet knew immediately that he wanted to take her in, so he brought her to Ingo and they took the Joltik to Starlight's dock. After getting her settled there, Emmet gifted her the name Princess.

• Emmet's Durant (M): Glare - MET AT AGE 17

How did they meet?

He was Emmet's third Pokémon. He met him the night before his eighteenth birthday after Ingo brought him up to the surface. Emmet and his brother were swimming near the shoreline of Striaton City when he spotted something shiny buried under the sand. Gathering up his courage, Emmet had Ingo keep watch as he dug the shiny thing out of the sand. It took him a couple minutes, but eventually he had unearthed an injured and unmoving Durant. Panicked, Emmet called to his brother and they tried to figure out what to do. Eventually, it was decided that Ingo would go out and hunt for berries or potions left along the shore. Emmet stayed with the Durant for almost an hour before Ingo returned with a potion and a Sitrus berry. They healed the Durant, then brought him to Starlight's dock to heal. Emmet came to visit every night for a month to check on the Durant's healing. In that time, the two of them bonded and Emmet gifted him with the name Glare.

• Emmet's Klinklang (N/A): Clack - MET AT AGE 20

How did they meet?

They were Emmet's fourth Pokémon. SEE INGO'S KLINKLANG FOR THE STORY. (It's the same story).

• Emmet's Archeops (M): Dash - MET AT AGE 26

How did they meet?

He was Emmet's fifth Pokémon. They met after the Archeops, then an Archen, escaped from a nearby Pokémon lab in Nacrene City. The Archen had found his way to the beach and was rummaging around in the sand, searching for food when he heard loud laughter. He chased after the sound and eventually found two funny looking men strolling on the beach. One of them — the one in flowy white pants and a shirt with colorful fruit on it — caught his attention. He ended up following the two men around before eventually getting spotted. The one in white wasn't angry though, instead meeting him with a smile. The man in white was happy to have a new friend and gifted him with the name Dash. The Archeops now lives happily with his family in the Beach House and sees the man in white a lot!

GUIDE POKEMON :

(These Pokémon were given to Ingo and Emmet when they were first brought into the Unova Ocean Pack to help them adapt + extra protection for Emmet and relief for Ingo. (See INGO AND EMMET'S PART OF THE STORY - EMMET'S STRUGGLE and INGO'S STRUGGLE for more information).

+1 (F) Frillish: Jelly

+1 (M) Frillish: Coral

Jelly and Coral were both young when they were given to Ingo and Emmet as their protectors. As children themselves, the two of them bonded closely to Ingo and Emmet. They go almost everywhere with the twins, helping guide them on the currents and defend them against humans and predators alike.

JELLY- She has a more profound bond with Emmet. Upon their first meeting, it was Emmet that gifted her her name. She was a similar color to a jello cup he saw someone eating on shore once, so that is what he named her after. Jelly grew attached to him in that very moment and has not stopped adoring him since. Emmet enjoys her company too, often confiding in her and his Eelektross about his feelings towards his song or his peers. (See INGO AND EMMET'S PART OF THE STORY - EMMET'S STRUGGLE for more information.) Also because Jelly is a fast swimmer, she helps guide travelers on the express route (See UNOVAN SEA TRANSIT for more information about the route.)

CORAL- He does not pick favorites, but he is more often around Ingo. Since he is supposed to be Ingo's guide specifically, he sees no reason to deviate from his task. (Though he does love Emmet as much as Ingo and would not protest if he was asked to spend more time with Emmet.) Ingo does not mind Coral's presence and sometimes seeks him out just to have a quiet moment with Coral. Or to have him help when his song hurts him. (See INGO AND EMMET'S PART OF THE STORY - INGO'S STRUGGLE for more information). Coral is not a very fast swimmer, but he is able to squeeze through tight spaces easily, so he helps guide travelers on the leisure route (See UNOVAN SEA TRANSIT for more information about the route.)

* NOTE- THERE WILL BE NO MENTIONS OF BATTLING MECHANICS OR POKEMON JOURNEY STUFF + LIMITED DESCRIPTION OF POKEMON IN GENERAL. (They are shown more as companions than battle partners in this AU) PLEASE DO NOT COME INTO THIS PIECE EXPECTING THAT!

*ALSO NOTE- The events of P:BW and P:Legends Arceus (specifically Ingo's part in that game) DO NOT TAKE PLACE IN THIS AU. (Though the P:BW fandom will still be tagged because this story includes multiple characters from those games.) So, there will be no mentions of in game events in this piece.

MINOR INFORMATION PIECES:

1. It's springtime during this story.

2. The world of Pokémon as we know it is still happening on the surface, minus a few characters.

3. Ingo and Emmet are in their early thirties.

4. Ingo and Emmet have visited all of Unova.

5. And naturally, yes the twins still love trains. (They can't visit as often as they would like to, but they try to go ride the subway at least a couple times a month.)

6. The twins live in a cove near Nimbasa when they are in the water. When they are on land, they stay in the beach house near Driftveil.

7. Most merfolk can talk to and understand Pokémon, though only Sirens are able to mimic Pokémon speech.

8. Names are an important part of merfolk culture. They are the basis of identity and status. Merfolk without names are often shunned or kicked out of their packs, left to die in the wilds. To be gifted a name is to be given a life. To be stripped of a name is worse than death. Most merfolk would choose to be killed over it.

SPECIES OF MERFOLK:

There are approximately nine known species of merfolk (plus two species that are unknown by both human researchers and most other species of merfolk). These species are sorted into categories based on their habitats, which is determined by the depth and temperature. Both of which are huge factors in determining the behavioral patterns and sociability of a species. (From a human perspective!)

• Depth: If a species lives closer to the surface of the ocean, they will be more social and friendly and docile. These merfolk tend to be very laid back and live in groups, depending on each other for survival. The deeper down a species lives, it will be more solitary and aggressive towards anything entering its territory. Merfolk that live in the deep sea are the most aggressive of all. Since the deep sea is a harsh location to live in, these species have adapted to the struggles of their habitat and have the strength to prove it! These merfolk tend to be the strongest of all the species with special adaptations that allow them to traverse the darkness easily — such as the ability to see in the dark or the ability to create their own light — and are more in touch with their sea magick.

*Note* - DEEP SEA MERFOLK ARE TO BE AVOIDED AT ALL COSTS. THEY HAVE NO FEAR OF KILLING AND WILL DO SO EVEN IF THEY ARE NOT HUNGRY. BEWARE THE DEEP SEA.

• Temperature: If a species lives in colder water, they are more likely to live in small groups or be solitary hunters. Since food is scarce in cold climates, it's easier for merfolk who live there to just have to worry about themselves and nobody else. Thus, they steer clear of big groups. These merfolk also tend to be more aggressive in nature, having to fight for their food and their territory. If a species lives in warmer water, they will be more social and docile. Food tends to be more abundant in warmer water, so there is no need to fight as hard for it. There are many different packs that live in warm water, most of which get along decently. The only real threat to them is human activity, as humans also tend to be more active in warm water. Their best defense for this is to stay in groups and use each other's support to defend themselves. Ending up alone in warm water is often a death sentence for this reason.

BEHAVIORAL RATING SYSTEM: A system created by human scientists using the depth and temperature of a habitat to determine just how friendly a species is. It's used to gauge whether or not it's safe to interact with a certain species for scientific research.

Tidal - An overall friendly species. These merfolk rarely attack and when they do it is never with intent to kill. They are the safest to approach, but it is still not recommended to do so without good reason. Merfolk are intelligent creatures. It is important to treat them as such.

Wave - Still more on the friendly side, but are more ready to attack. These merfolk prefer to leave humans alone, though have also been known to attack viciously if threatened. Approach with both respect and caution and perhaps a bribe too.

Current - Less friendly. These species tend to be in depths lower than the surface. It's more rare to encounter them, but they are more likely to attack if one does. Have been known to kill humans for entering their territory. Though can be reasoned with for a large bribe or bargain. (Not recommended to resort to that! Merfolk can be manipulative. Proceed with caution.)

Riptide - Not friendly. Will attack on sight. These merfolk seem to only live in the deep sea, so it is very rare to encounter one. DO NOT APPROACH. They WILL kill. (Not much else is known about these species other than that.)

*Note* - Humans that are aware of the existence of merfolk love to poach them for their colorful scales. And scientists want to study any merfolk they can catch (sometimes for less than noble reasons). Merfolk are very wary of humans for these reasons.

SECONDARY NOTE: There are multiple species of hybrid merfolk that are mixed with the DNA of Pokémon. Nobody knows how this happened, but many suspect it was the Heart of the Sea that created them (See HEART OF THE SEA for more information). The species of Pokémon that are mixed with merfolk DNA are very specific. There have yet to be any species discovered that are not the already known species of Pokémon-merfolk… but the ocean is vast. There is always a possibility…

SURFACE MERFOLK - Sirens, Eelektross hyrbids, fish Pokémon hybrids.

• {Wave - Current Class} Sirens are a surface species that build nests and hunt near rocky shores. They are most well known for luring sailors to their deaths by using their Siren Song to charm them into a trance. Though, in the modern era, most sirens don't eat humans. Most prefer to hunt fish or eat sea plants. (Or human food if they can travel on land. See SEA TO LAND for more information.) Their songs now are used to defend themselves from humans looking to poach them and to communicate via a similar mechanic to echolocation over long distances. Sirens without songs… usually die very quickly. They have trouble communicating because they can't use their songs, leaving them without a means of communication or defense against predators. But not all of them. Sirens are a species that picks up language easily, having to mimic many different languages for their charms to work, so most sirens are also capable of human speech to communicate. If a siren can communicate with their pack via other means, then they are more likely to be accepted and protected by their pack. Finally, there are two subspecies of siren: Warm-water Sirens and Arctic Sirens.

1. Warm-water Sirens, as the name suggests, live in more tropical or temperate waters. These sirens tend to be more docile in nature, traveling in large groups and socializing frequently. They are a tight-knit grouping of merfolk who defend their own. Warm-water Sirens also tend to be brighter in color, blending in with more vibrant environments.

2. Arctic Sirens live in the frozen waters around the poles. These sirens tend to be more aggressive and defensive of what is theirs, meaning they tend to travel in smaller groups or live entirely solitary lives. Arctic Sirens also live in a state of food scarcity, as it's hard to hunt fish and there is very little sea vegetation for them to eat. So, if an Arctic Siren gets too hungry… an unsuspecting human could easily become part of their menu.

*NOTE- Interbreeding between WW Sirens and Arctic Sirens is looked down upon culturally. The two subspecies do not get along very well and were at war for many, many years prior to the Common Era. The war ended in the start of the 19th century with a pact made before the Heart of the Sea (See HEART OF THE SEA for more information.) This decision came after both sides realized the mass casualties and no victories on either side was bringing both of them to the brink of extinction. It was a pact forged out of necessity, not because either side of the fight really wanted to end their battle. So, there are still tough feelings between the groups even over a century later. Though… interbreeding does still happen sometimes… it doesn't often end well.

SIREN SONG:

A vocalization that can be used for hypnosis or mind control. Can also be used for communication across currents. (Typical range for Siren Song is a couple miles, but very rarely there are sirens with vocal ranges that can go further than that/are much stronger than usual.) Other sirens are largely immune to Siren Song, but using it on another siren can work as a sort of suggestion or to sway another siren's feelings. (It can never be used for complete control).

Feeling of usage is like a light vibration in the throat (like humming).

If Siren Song is being used for manipulation and mind control, it will sound like singing (singing being a looser term, meaning it sounds more like loud and echoey vocalizations) When it’s being used as communication, it sounds more like whale songs or the clicking noises of echolocation.

• {Wave Class} Eelektross Hybrids are a species of warm-water surface merfolk with human DNA and Eelektross DNA. Believed to be the result of a wayward laboratory experiment, these hybrids tend to have quite a few health issues. One of these issues is the lack of refined devolvement of their Sach's Organ, making it difficult for these merfolk to hunt effectively. In order to make up for their troubles with hunting, this species lives close to the surface where fishing boats stir up fish. The general temperament of these merfolk is quite docile. They don't usually make packs amongst themselves, instead preferring to find packs of different species to live with. (And given their access to electricity and their incredibly fast swimming abilities, they are usually accepted.)

• {Tidal Class} Fish Pokémon Hybrids is an overarching grouping of a bunch of different subspecies of merfolk. Since there are quite a few fish Pokémon — and because the general DNA and behaviors of most of these hybrids happens to be almost the same — they are all grouped together. Most Fish Pokémon Hybrids live in moderate to warm waters, though some can be found living in the colder oceans. These merfolk can survive in packs or on their own, but most prefer to school together. There are very few Fish Pokémon Hybrids that are solitary.

MEDIAN MERFOLK - Seadra hybrids, Gyarados hybrids, Lapras hybrids

• {Wave Class} Seadra Hybrids are Twilight Zone hunters who live in small packs. They make their homes in underwater caves and hunt smaller fish Pokémon. Since there is less sea vegetation below the sunlit layer of the ocean, these merfolk tend to be purely carnivorous. Seadra Hybrids have a complex social order based in how many kills they have and how big a hunt they can provide for their packs. Merfolk who can bring in the most and defend the best are named the leader of the pack. Merfolk who cannot hunt and do not assist the pack in any way are kicked out of the pack and left on their own.

*NOTE - Seadra Hybrids are partial to sweets. If needed, they can be persuaded to leave submarines and divers alone with enough sugary foods. Do not let them convince you to give anything else, lest they trick you into becoming the next meal for their allies, the Gyarados Hybrids.

• {Wave - Current Class} Gyarados Hybrids are mostly solitary merfolk. Sometimes they will form a symbiotic relationship with Seadra Hybrid pack, offering their strength to defend those packs in exchange for food. Due to this phenomenon, there have been observed instances of Gyarados Hybrids and Seadra Hybrids mating. Though the resulting offspring never display mixed genes. They either come out as Gyarados or Seadra hybrids. Scientists have not been able to get their hands on DNA samples to sequence to figure out why that is, though. So the reason is currently unknown. Not much else is known about these merfolk.

• {Tidal Class} Lapras Hybrids are a very rare sight. Only four have been spotted in the wild, the rest washing ashore dead. Locals from regions like Sinnoh and Johto even have superstitions about dead Lapras Hybrids washing ashore. Apparently, it is considered a bad omen and signifies that something terrible will happen soon. It is currently unknown if those claims have any weight to them. Not much else is known about them.

DEPTH MERFOLK - Sharpedo hybrids, Chinchou hybrids

• {Current Class} Sharpedo Hybrids are Midnight Zone dwellers. Interestingly enough, there have been no observed cases of Sharpedo Hybrids leaving their zone for any reason. From what has been observed, scientists can only assume they are well adapted to their environment that they do not need to leave. Nothing else is known about them.

• {Wave - Current Class} Chinchou Hybrids lure their prey in with the lights on their heads. Have been known to attack submarines and probes sent down into the depths, though scientists speculate this behavior is more playful than aggressive. Nothing else is known about them.

SEAFLOOR MERFOLK - Outcasts, Wails, Hydra hybrids

• {Riptide Class} Outcasts is another broader label. Includes any species of merfolk that had been kicked out of a pack, though what baffles scientists still is how they change once they reach the deep. They become darker, more twisted versions of the merfolk they once were. It is unknown why this happens or what triggers such a change. Nothing else is known about them.

• {Riptide Class} Wails. Massive almost whale-like creatures. But they are wrong. Sharp teeth. Clawed, twisted limbs… DO NOT ENGAGE. Nothing else is known about them.

• {Riptide Class} Hydra Hybrids. Big enough to devour probes and ships in the blink of an eye. Nothing else is known about them.

HUMAN TO MERFOLK RELATIONS:

- The Unovan government is aware of the existence of merfolk. Of course they are! How could they not be? Back in the day, before the 19th century, merfolk would attack sailors and boats and would cause havoc for humans on beaches. The government had to get involved at that point. Initially, they tried to attack the merfolk and force them away from the shores, but they ended up losing more than what they were gaining. It wasn't worth the cost of both human and Pokémon life. So, they turned to treaties and agreements and communication. It was hard to communicate effectively with most packs, but the sirens living in areas near the shore were more easily able to talk to humans. So, packs with sirens were more easily able to get treaties signed with the Unovan government. Though, even with treaties, the relationship between humans and merfolk was tense. Both species wanted to use the ocean and the land and trying to avoid each other was difficult! Until the Unovan Sea Transit was created. Ever since Sea Masters Ingo and Emmet created their routes across the ocean of Unova, travel for both parties has been made so much easier. The Unovan government was quick to reach out to the Sea Master to create agreements to keep merfolk away from shipping routes and off of beaches while humans are there. In return, the government defends local packs from scientists and poachers.

-Sea Masters Ingo and Emmet also sometimes help guard ships and help sailors brave storms. In return, they were gifted a home near Driftveil City to use when they are on land. That house is protected government property, so it isn't taxed and the government pays for the bills.

-Overall, most merfolk are wary of humans. Due to poaching, they tend to stay as far away from humans as possible. Merfolk who undergo the Task of the Sea (See HEART OF THE SEA for more information) and gain Relics (See RELICS for more information) also tend to be antsy around humans while they are on land. Though they also tend to be more curious and friendly than merfolk who cannot travel on land.

-There are some special cases of merfolk being fascinated by humans. These merfolk tend to spend a lot of time near the surface or on land if they can. Sea Master Ingo is one of the most well known examples of this while his brother, Sea Master Emmet, is more wary.

-Humans, especially scientists, are very interested in studying merfolk. Sometimes it is a serious problem… scientific research teams must be licensed by the government and have agreements with merfolk packs to operate. Some teams… do not follow the rules.

-Humans who do not follow the rules and mistreat merfolk will face prison time. That is part of the agreement the Unovan Government made with the Unova Ocean Pack. It is unavoidable.

HEART OF THE SEA:

The Heart of the Sea is the source of all Sea Magick and is speculated to be the origin of most species of merfolk, if not all of them. When asking a merfolk questions about the Heart of the Sea, it was revealed that they consider it to be a figure to worship and is widely regarded as their 'creator'. It is their life, their social order, and even their death. Apparently, the Heart of the Sea is said to rest all the way in the bottom of the ocean and is guarded by what the merfolk call Wails. It is unknown what exactly a 'Wail' is and merfolk refuse to explain anything beyond the name. Also according to some merfolk locals, there is a ceremonial or 'right of passage' sort of ritual where young adult merfolk are to venture down into the depths and receive something referred to as a 'Relic'. Not all merfolk undergo this venture, but those who do are considered to have the highest status amongst any pack. That is all scientists know about the Heart of the Sea.

• Task of the Sea

The Task of the Sea is a journey where a young adult merfolk will travel all the way down to the depths to receive a Relic from the Heart of the Sea. This task is the single most important moment in any merfolk's life should they chose to undergo the trial. Most do not, as it is incredibly dangerous. Those who do are very unlikely to return. If they do return, they are granted the highest status in a pack — a guardian. Guardians oversea aspects of merfolk life and are trusted to guide and protect their packs with their lives. Very beloved figures in their communities.

• Siren Pact of the 19th Century

If there is an argument amongst species or packs, they are often settled with battles or war. Once those wars are over (whether or not a side of the fight wins) both parties send representatives down to the Midnight Zone to strike a deal under the eyes of the Heart of the Sea. In this ritual, there is a sacrifice made (usually something considered important to a pack, like food or resources. NEVER a living thing or something that bleeds. That is considered dirty and to offer something dirty is to bring shame and death to a pack). Once the sacrifices are dropped and left to sink to the ocean floor, both parties speak a promise to the other and then they must live by the pact created. Anyone who breaks the pact is kicked out of their pack. The Siren Pact specifically ruled that Warm Water Sirens and Arctic Sirens are not to attack each other over territory or resources, nor are they to interfere with each other's affairs. The wording of that pact was very vague and thus, many sirens believe that means they are not allowed to mate with a member of the other subspecies. That is why relationships between the two groups are taboo.

RELICS:

A Relic is a small wearable object that is gotten from traveling to the Heart of the Sea. Most often it manifests as a piece of jewelry, but sometimes it can manifest as a modest covering (a garment usually made of seaweed, kelp, or some other kind of fibrous material that is worn over the chest of all merfolk, regardless of gender) or a sash (something tied around the waist of a merfolk — usually adorned with shells or shiny trinkets found on the ocean floor).

Relics possess the power to turn any merfolk into a human for a short amount of time.

Relics are highly sought after, but they cannot be stolen because they are specifically tailored to their wearers. The magic within a Relic will not work with anyone other than their chosen holder. Thus, the only way to obtain a working Relic is to complete the Trail of the Sea.

Merfolk with Relics are often Guardians, as in order to become a Guardian one must undergo the Trail of the Sea.

SEA TO LAND:

With the help of a Relic, any merfolk can walk on land. BUT, the magic does not last forever. New users of Relics tend to only get a couple hours to a day or two of time on land. Older users and users who have trained themselves to stay on land for longer can remain on land for days to weeks. The longest amount of time a merfolk can remain on land is a month. After the time a Relic gives a merfolk is up, they start to get sicker and sicker until their bodies give out on them, which can lead to a merfolk suffocating on land.

Symptoms:

• Nausea

• Itchy Limbs

• Weak muscles

• Headache

• Migraine

• Shivering

• Trouble Breathing

• Frailness

• Light Headed-ness

• Confusion

• Panic

• Increased Stress Level

• Feeling of Intense Dread

• Violent Outbursts

• Hallucinations

• Death

Symptoms will get progressively worse the longer a merfolk stays on land past their time. The first signs that show up are usually shortness of breath and itchy limbs. Most merfolk do not want to test their luck and will return to the water as soon as they notice the symptoms. After spending some time in the ocean (the recovery period is usually a couple days at least) they may return to the land if they choose.

UNOVA OCEAN PACK/PACK DYNAMICS:

PACK LEADER - Alder: Gyarados Hybrid

The current Leader of the Unova Ocean Pack is Alder. He is known as the strongest merfolk of the pack and is often very busy with the upkeep of the pack, hunting, or surveying the area around the nest. Pack Leader Alder is also known to be a very light-hearted man who enjoys having fun with his pack. Well respected among his pack!

Chili, Cress, and Cilan: Fish Pokémon Hybrids (Red-Stipe Basculin, Blue-Stripe Basculin, White-Stripe Basculin )

These triplets are the youngest to have undergone the Trail of the Sea, being only sixteen years old. All three brothers have earned their Relics and their rights to being the Guardians of Food Resource. Chili, Cress, and Cilan handle the storing of food, the distribution of food, and the hunting locations. Cilan is also known to hang out with the Sea Masters, being a big fan of the twins.

Elesa: Eelektross Hybrid

One of the most popular Guardians in the pack! She is very well known and well loved by her pack mates for her vibrant personality and her fun-loving nature. Elesa is the Guardian of Clothing in the pack and is tasked with weaving modesty garments and creating sashes. She also sometimes styles hair if asked nicely enough. Her mate is Skyla and she is best friends with the Sea Masters.

Lenora: WW Siren

Lenora is slightly feared by her pack for her straightforward attitude, but she is also well respected for it too. She is not quite old enough to be considered an elder yet, but most consider her to be one anyway. Lenora is the Guardian of Story and is tasked with documenting and keeping track of all the pack's history. She also helps keep track of treaties with the human government and with other packs. Her mate is Hawes.

Burgh: Fish Pokémon Hybrid (Goldeen)

Somewhat of an odd fellow. Most consider his eccentric personality to be endearing despite that. Burgh is the Guardian of Art of the pack, which is less important to the overall survival of the pack, but is still respected regardless! Burgh's art is considered the 'glue' of the pack and is often how the pack members bond.

Clay: Seadra Hybrid

Considered to be an elder, though is not actually all that old. Clay has been a Guardian for a very long time and because of that, merfolk often come to him about advice and for tips on hunting. Clay is happy to share. Clay is the Guardian of Stone in the pack and is often tasked with making sure the nest is safe for the pack and that the terrain is not going to collapse around them. He also travels to Driftveil City on land often to make sure the cave system and the tunnels are still operational for his step-sons, the Sea Masters. Clay's mate is Drayden.

Skyla: Fish Pokémon Hybrid (Finneon)

A bright and bubbly Guardian who is also considered somewhat of an oddball. Skyla does not have formal guardianship over a specific thing, so she tends to float around and help where she can. Her favorite task to help with though is crafting things with her mate. The pack has lovingly dubbed her the Guardian of Whatever, though the title is more a joke than anything else. Her mate is Elesa.

Brycen: Arctic Siren

A somewhat reclusive man that is newer to the pack. Brycen has only been a part of the Unova Ocean Pack for a couple years, but he has earned his place as the Guardian of Performance. Brycen, while somewhat shy most of the time, enjoys storytelling and performing for the pack during meals. He often tells the stories of merfolk folklore and adventures of his time on land. Very well loved by the young of the pack.

Drayden: Sharpedo Hybrid

Also considered to be an elder despite not being all that old. Drayden is somewhat of a mother-hen, taking in lost children and outcasted merfolk who need a home. In fact, most of the Guardians were brought in by Drayden and some were even adopted. The most well known examples are his sons, Sea Masters Ingo and Emmet, but also his daughter Iris. The three of them, being children of Pack Leader Alder's right hand man, are very well respected by the pack. Drayden himself is widely regarded as being one of the most important Guardians of the pack — The Guardian of Hunt. He is tasked with bringing in the food and protecting the pack from danger. His mate is Clay.

Iris: Warm Water Siren

The daughter of Guardian Drayden. She is not yet a Guardian herself, but her potential is hard to miss! Iris often goes out hunting with her father and utilizes her strength to protect the pack. She is very excited for the day she is allowed to undergo the Trial of the Sea.

Ingo: WW/Arctic Siren

The older twin. Ingo is a half-breed siren who was abandoned by his parents and taken in by Drayden. He is well known for how powerful his song is, far surpassing that of sirens twice his age. Ingo is capable of controlling the mind of anyone he comes into contact with and can communicate over miles of ocean if he needs to. Though, Ingo's capabilities do often leave him with chronic migraines and pain. He tries not to stress his powers when he can. Ingo is one of the Guardians of Transport.

Emmet: WW/Arctic Siren

The younger twin. Emmet is also a half-breed siren who was abandoned by his parents and taken in by Drayden. Though, Emmet tends to feel worse about that than Ingo. Due to his lack of song, Emmet is more susceptible to being attacked or getting lost in the waves, thus the pack sometimes babies him. Emmet hates it. He gets support from Jelly and Lightning, but that is all the support he wants. He does not understand why everyone else seems to want to 'help' him… despite those issues, Emmet is well loved by his pack. Since he is the fastest swimmer in the pack, Emmet is often tasked with retrievals alongside his work in the Unovan Sea Transit, which he is happy to do. Emmet is the other Guardian of Transport.

HUMAN CHARACTERS:

Hilda Fletcher: A Marine Biology Major who is interning at Plasma Labs. She is doing the internship with her cousin Hilbert.

Hilbert Chase: A Marine Engineering Major who is interning at Plasma Labs. He was convinced to apply for the internship by his cousin, Hilda. Hilbert is suspicious of Plasma Labs… he'll do the internship just to make sure nothing happens to Hilda, if nothing else.

Natural Harmonia Gropius: He works at Plasma Labs… right?

Johanna Hisamatsu: A Marine Wildlife expert who just got a new job at a research facility in Castelia City. She's moved all the way from Sinnoh with her children to take this job and it very excited to start working!

Akari/Dawn Hisamatsu: A Sinnoan teenager who has just moved from Sinnoh to Unova for her mom's new job. She's a little upset, but is excited to be living right on the beach! She's going to go out to the ocean every day!

Rei/Lucas Hisamatsu: A Sinnoan teenager who has just moved from Sinnoh to Unova for his mom's new job. He wants to go back to Sinnoh. He likes the beach, sure, but he just wants to go home… though he can hardly allow his sister to go to the beach alone. So, maybe he will not rot in his room.

SHIPS:

(Disclaimer!! Please note that these ships are background and thus will not be tagged on my work — unless otherwise asked to tag them. All of them will either not be mentioned, briefly mentioned, or implied. Ships are not the main focus of this story!)

Clay + Drayden

Elesa + Skyla

Lenora + Hawes (her husband)

And, to be fully transparent, maybe Johanna + Ingo. I am still toying with the idea as of right now, so that is not set in stone. If I were to include that, it also would not be the main focus of this AU, though it would be a little more prevalent than the others. If I end up going with that, I will change this bit of information. If not it will be removed. Just so y'all know!

UNOVAN SEA TRANSIT:

Similarly to how Gear Station works, the tunnels are used for merfolk to travel around the region and are managed by Sea Masters Ingo and Emmet. Around the tunnels, the Sea Masters have installed sea magick crystals in the walls to make traveling through them possible in the blink of an eye with the help of artificial currents! (Though if the mode of transport of your choice is the leisure route, travel will be just a little bit slower). With the help of the Sea Masters activating the crystals as they pass through, everyone can make it to their destination in record time!

The tunnels themselves either lead to the shallows around the region, into caves with water in them, to the river terminals, or out into the open ocean (See MAP OF ROUTES for a more detailed picture). The shallows are more dangerous to travel to — given there is a lot of human activity around those parts — so merfolk traveling there must go late in the night to avoid as much human contact as possible. (Though if the reason for travel is an emergency, Sea Masters Ingo and Emmet will make special exceptions. Their aim is to help everyone travel safely, no matter what!) The most common routes are to the beaches at night or to the river terminals, though occasionally a traveler will need to be guided out into the open ocean. (The Sea Masters only have to go into the caves under verrry specific circumstances. IE: if they want to go on land or if another merfolk needs to shift to go on land. See SEA TO LAND for more information.)

So far the system has been a hit! In fact, the Unovan Sea Transit single-handedly connected all of the Unovan sea and is world renounced in the underwater world! Merfolk come from all over to use it and explore the region. And for the local merfolk, it has made travel so much easier and safer! A trip that once would have taken days or even weeks to accomplish has become one that takes less than an hour! The quality of life for everyone in the community has vastly improved since its establishment. And the Sea Masters are very highly respected for their work in keeping the Unovan Ocean safe! They work very closely with the Unovan Pack leader, Alder, and the human government (See HUMAN TO MERFOLK RELATIONS for more information.) to make sure the system stays up and running. Without it, the community of the Unovan sea would have to return to hiding and fending for themselves.

*Note: The Sea Masters also sometimes guide ships. They do not do it very often, but if they human government asks for assistance, they are happy to help! They want to keep humans safe on their waters too. (Which means they will also sometimes go out during storms to help any humans that may fall overboard.) When they are asked to guide ships away from Unova, they only go as far as the outs. The Sea Masters do not like being out in the open ocean. Sea Master Ingo claims it's difficult to communicate with Sea Master Emmet out there. So, they are not made to travel very far.

Here are the routes the Sea Masters run:

• Sea Master Emmet's Route:

He runs the express route — the faster route. He guides Merfolk through some of the wider tunnels around Unova (since it's safer to go fast in bigger tunnels). His stops are in the West Nimbasan River Terminal, the Opelucid River Terminal, Virbank Beach, Aspertia Beach, West Castelia Port, the Southwest Out, and the Southeast Out. His route is open from Monday - Friday (and special stops on weekends, but only if it's absolutely necessary). He does his runs at:

10:00 am - 12:00 pm (runs three times.)

West Nimbasan River Terminal —> West Castelia Port —> Virbank Beach —>West Nimbasan River Terminal—> West Castelia Port.

1:30 pm - 5:10 pm (runs twice.)

West Castelia Port —> Southwest Out —> Aspertia Beach —> Virbank Beach —> West Nimbasan River Terminal —> Opelucid River Terminal —> West Nimbasan River Terminal —> West Castelia Port —> Southwest Out —> Aspertia Beach.

12:10 am - 1:50 am (runs once.)

West Nimbasan River Terminal — > Opelucid River Terminal —> West Nimbasan River Terminal.

2:10 am - 3:10am (runs twice.)

West Nimbasan River Terminal —> Southwest Out —> West Nimbasan River Terminal

• Sea Master Ingo's Route:

He runs the leisure route — the slower route. He guides merfolk through the more narrow tunnels, which require more maneuvering. His stops are in East Castelia Port, the East Nimbasan River Terminal, Lentimas Channel, Nacrene Beach, Nuvema Beach. His route is open from Monday - Friday (and special stops on weekends, but only if it's absolutely necessary). He does his runs at:

10:00 am - 12:30 pm (runs once)

East Castelia Port —> Southeast Out —> Nuvema Beach —>East Castelia Port —> Southeast Out.

12:50 pm - 5:40 pm (runs once)

Southeast Out —> Nuvema Beach —> East Castelia Port —> East Nimbasan River Terminal —> Lentimas Channel —> East Nimbasan River Terminal —> East Castelia Port —> Nuvema Beach —> Southeast out —> East Castelia Port.

1:00 am -2:00 am (runs once)

East Castelia Port —> South Nimbasan River Terminal —> Lentimas Channel —> South Nimbasan River Terminal —>East Castelia Port.

2:40 am -3:50 am (runs twice)

East Castelia Port —> Southeast Out —> Nuvema Beach.

FINAL ROUTE OF THE NIGHT:

Sea Masters Ingo and Emmet run this last route together and it only runs once.

4:00 am-5:00 am

West Castelia Port —> Southeast Out —> Striaton Beach —> East Out —> Southeast Out.

*Note* - Passengers on the last route of the night that need to get to other destinations beyond the Southeast Out must stay in the caves in that area until the next morning, then head to the Castelia ports to be picked up again. Jelly leads passengers to the west port while Coral brings passengers to the east port (See OVERALL SETTING/BACKGROUND OF THE WORLD - GUIDE POKEMON for more information about them.)

MAP OF ROUTES:

https://www.tumblr.com/swiftsilverfeather/804411583233130496/guys-i-only-have-one-more-section-of-my

INGO AND EMMET'S PART OF THE STORY:

ORIGINS:

Ingo and Emmet are mixed breed sirens, born to a Warm Water and an Arctic siren. Due to this pairing being frowned upon it is believed the twins were cursed — Ingo having chronic pain due to his powerful song and Emmet being completely songless. Some have speculated that is why they were abandoned, but those claims were quickly shut down by the twin's family and pack members.

They were born in the waters of the East Out and then abandoned soon after. Left to die in the open ocean, infant Ingo and Emmet could only cry and squirm helplessly. Thanks to their cries, they were found by Drayden of the Unova Ocean Pack and quickly taken under his wing. Drayden raised his boys to be strong merfolk and to have good hearts. Drayden is endlessly proud of his sons, despite sharing no blood relation to them.

EMMET'S STRUGGLE: Emmet was born with no Siren Song, meaning he does not have the right anatomy to create the sound waves needed for Siren Song. Without a song, Emmet has trouble communicating over long distances and could not communicate at all with his pack for the first few years of his life. It was only when Emmet learned Galarian from humans during visits to the surface that he found a way to communicate with his pack. Emmet still faces some distrust from peers and feels bad about his lack of song. He doesn't like talking about it…

INGO'S STRUGGLE: Ingo was born with an exceptionally powerful song, capable of communicating across miles of ocean and manipulating even the strongest of minds. Many praise Ingo for how powerful he is, not knowing of the pain it causes him. Ingo is prone to migraines and nosebleeds and overall pain in his throat when he uses his song. It's too strong for his body, thus it causes problems. Sometimes the healing powers Coral has helps numb some of the pain, but it does not always work. Ingo usually just nods along when people compliment his song.

MAJOR ARGUMENT/BIG CHANGES:

In their late teenage years, when they were almost adults, Ingo and Emmet got into a massive argument. Being new adults, they had to decide what they were going to do with their lives and whether or not they wanted to undergo the Trail of the Sea. Emmet was adamant about going and gaining the title of a Guardian, wanting their peers to see them as capable merfolk. Ingo was afraid of going, as he thought neither he or Emmet could handle it. They screamed at each other for hours, then the topic of their songs was brought up. What they said can never be repeated, but it caused the two of them to part ways. Ingo ended up swimming to the West Nimbasan River where he almost got captured by poachers, then he found himself in a cove off the coast of Nimbasa City. There, Ingo explained his situation to a local Trubbish and found the confidence to undergo the Trail. He set off to find Emmet soon after that. Meanwhile, Emmet had gone to the cave system, as he preferred to sit in the dark and quiet to think. He was traveling through the tunnels when an idea hit him — something they could do without undergoing the Trial! They could make a transport system with the tunnels, and he knew it would be a hit too! Emmet sped off to find Ingo after that. The brothers eventually found each other again and explained what they had realized to each other and apologized for their words. It was during that conversation when they decided to undergo the Trail and then set up the Unovan Sea Transit routes. That is how they gained their titles as Sea Masters.

Now, they run a guide system through the underwater tunnels around Unova's sea. Since they are technically not allowed to interact with humans (and would be hunted to extinction if they did anyway), merfolk have to hide themselves away from humanity. For many, many years, the Unovan sea-life feared humans and the violence they would bring should they ever get caught and hide away wherever they could. Many merfolk were stranded in their own sections of the sea, unable to communicate with other packs in the area. Without support and resources, every pack suffered extreme hardship and many died. But! With the implementation of the Unovan Sea Transit service, they changed their lives for the better.

Also as a result of that, they live in that hidden cove near Nimbasa City (See OVERALL SETTING/BACKGROUND OF THE WORLD - MAP OF LAND LOCATIONS for more information).

• REWARD FOR THEIR BRAVERY:

• Given their titles as Guardians of Transit

• Given the Beach House

• Highly respected

• Work with the Unovan Government

• Granted unrestricted access to Unova on land

• SURFACE VISITS/HUMAN RELATIONS:

Ingo and Emmet visit the surface moderately often. They usually travel to the Beach House to spend time with their teams, but occasionally they will travel around the region. Ingo loves being on land and talking to humans while Emmet prefers staying close to the ocean. Emmet does enjoy seeing cool Pokémon though! Overall, they have a fairly positive view on humans and surface life!

BEACH HOUSE:

A gift from the human government to Ingo and Emmet for their work in protecting human ships and their creation of the Unovan Sea Transit. It's a simple two story house with three bedrooms, an open floor plan first floor, and a small attic for storage. The house is fully furnished and all the bills are paid for by the Unovan government.

Ingo and Emmet only occasionally stay in the house and only keep clothes, extra food, some knickknacks from their travels, and extra supplies for travelers in the house. Oh, and of course their Pokémon!

The house is located in a secluded area outside of Driftveil City. It's not accessible to the public.