Here, in the Lemon Meridian Cultural Archives, you’ll uncover the essence of our world — its geography shaped by ancient Magic and human touch, its social rhythms flowing like the tides, and much more. Explore the harmonious roles that bind us, the wonders of our culinary and artistic traditions, and the enchanted Pearl that grants our Magic.
When you are finished, return to where we first dove in.
Lemon Meridian is a vibrant underwater realm where life flows as effortlessly as the ocean currents. The mermaids of this world enjoy a laid-back existence, with most taking on tasks sparingly and spending their free time basking in the tranquility of their shimmering habitat. Social roles are fluid; elders and skilled mermaids oversee leadership and ceremonial duties, while young mermaids, often called “Just Magical Ones” (JMOs), attend schools to learn essential skills and the sacred rules that preserve their way of life. Humans are regarded with a mix of fascination and caution—mermaids observe their celebrations from afar, marveling at their arts, music, and culture, which inspire their own aquatic adaptations, such as bioluminescent dances and kelp-string melodies. While mermaids and humans rarely interact directly, moments of serendipity—like the sharing of a lemon—can bridge their worlds in unexpected ways. In Lemon Meridian, creativity and leisure reign supreme, with mermaids crafting intricate coral sculptures, weaving seaweed tapestries, and composing hauntingly beautiful songs that echo through the depths, making their realm a harmonious blend of magic and serenity.
Lemon Meridian operates under a harmonious and deeply spiritual system of governance rooted in its connection to the Pearl. The council of elders, typically composed of ten members, serves as the primary decision-making body. These elders are democratically elected through a process involving enchanted shells, which allow all mermaids to vote. However, nominations for council members are determined solely by the Pearl, which identifies the most worthy candidates based on wisdom, experience, and a pure connection to the community.
While most elders are EMOs, possessing ancient knowledge and unique abilities, JMOs are not excluded and can also rise to leadership roles if chosen by the Pearl. The council members serve for as long as they feel their contributions are valuable to Lemon Meridian. Resignation is a personal choice for some, while others may step down if the Pearl determines their time has come. This flexible tenure ensures that the council remains dynamic and responsive to the needs of the mermaid society.
Mermaid governance is marked by trust and respect, with the council focusing on maintaining harmony, addressing disputes, and guiding the community through challenges. Major decisions, particularly those affecting the Pearl or interactions with humans, are made collectively, reflecting the democratic and egalitarian ethos of Lemon Meridian.
The geography of Lemon Meridian is as mystical as its magic, spanning the depths of every ocean on Earth. While humans can only reach this hidden realm under the guidance of TON (The Ocean Navigator), the true heart of Lemon Meridian lies with the Pearl—a singular, sacred location that can only be discovered by those with pure hearts. The Pearl’s presence imbues the surrounding waters with warmth, creating a temperate oasis in the otherwise cold and shadowy ocean depths.
The general oceanscape is dotted with mermaid-made wonders: massive castles, bridges, and infrastructure crafted from stone, sand, and repurposed human artifacts—some collected, some cleverly “borrowed.” These structures blend seamlessly into the natural environment, a testament to the mermaids’ ingenuity and symbiosis with their surroundings. Communities are fluid and adaptable, with mermaids resting wherever they please: within cozy underwater caves, atop soft beds of anemone, or even on the open ocean floor. They coexist peacefully with marine life, facing no threats from other animals and remaining out of human reach unless invited.
The mermaids’ world is not without its challenges. Underwater volcanic eruptions, sandstorms, and oil spills are among the natural disasters that shape life in Lemon Meridian. The climate varies based on proximity to the Pearl and external conditions like oil slicks or sand blocking sunlight, which keeps the waters frigid for humans. For mermaids, however, the ocean feels perpetually temperate, with the Pearl’s magic offering a comforting warmth that radiates throughout their realm.
In the mermaid world of Lemon Meridian, the concept of family is uniquely absent, as all mermaids are born directly from the Pearl, a sacred, mystical source that imbues them with either standard magical abilities or extra magical potential. These mermaids, referred to as Just Magical Ones and Extra Magical Ones, do not adhere to a traditional familial structure, as they are created individually rather than through lineage. The absence of gender is intrinsic to their nature—while the word “maid” may be used, it is merely a linguistic artifact and does not imply a female designation, as all mermaids are considered equal in their origins. Though they do not experience gender in the same way humans do, they possess an understanding of biological sex from interactions with other creatures in their aquatic realm and have a rudimentary grasp of human gender constructs, recognizing them as part of their observations of external worlds. In Lemon Meridian, identity is shaped by magical essence and connection to the Pearl rather than family or gender roles.
The economy of Lemon Meridian operates without traditional currency, relying instead on a sophisticated system of bartering and trade. Mermaids exchange items derived from the ocean or human artifacts that have accidentally fallen into the sea, often accompanied by rare treasures stolen by mythical creatures, such as the Alfs, who venture onto land. In exchange, the mermaids offer the Alfs and other beings delectable ocean foods, creating a delicate balance of mutual benefit. Among the most valuable resources traded are Spitted Sand, a shimmering mixture of stardust and sand that surrounds the Pearl for hundreds of miles, believed to be imbued with the essence of The Original One. Equally prized is Moon Milk, a rare and potent substance extracted from a particular seaweed only found under the light of a full moon. Depending on its preparation, Moon Milk holds extraordinary healing powers, making it a coveted item not just among mermaids but across many realms. These valuable resources form the backbone of Lemon Meridian’s barter-based economy, where rarity and magical properties define wealth.
In the belief system of Lemon Meridian, the mermaids’ spirituality is deeply intertwined with the reverence of The Pearl, which is seen as the origin of all life, both under the sea and in the Dry Place. The Pearl’s creation of the first mermaids and all the creatures that inhabit their world is central to their worldview. Rituals and celebrations are marked by the changing of seasons, with the solstices being particularly significant. During these times, massive feasts are held, where mermaids come together to honor The Pearl and the interconnectedness of all life forms, even those that dwell on land. These grand gatherings are not just about sustenance but also serve as sacred moments of reflection, unity, and reaffirmation of their connection to the divine source. Whether they are consuming delicacies from the ocean or sharing in the bounty brought by mythical creatures, every act is a gesture of gratitude toward The Pearl, which they believe sustains and connects them all, regardless of where they reside.
Food in Lemon Meridian is both practical and ceremonial, with mermaids typically eating on the go as they tend to their duties and engage in their daily activities. At the end of the day, they gather for a large communal meal, a time for relaxation and connection after a busy schedule. To cook their meals, mermaids use underwater volcanoes and geothermal hot spots, which provide natural heat for preparing food. Occasionally, they “borrow” snacks from humans, stealing bits of food that have fallen into the ocean, adding an element of intrigue to their diet. Seaweeds in Lemon Meridian are versatile; some are consumed as food, others used for medicinal purposes, and some are psychoactive or even poisonous, with the mermaids knowing which to use for various needs. Oysters and infertile shark eggs hold cultural significance, with oysters seen as descendants of The Original One, sanctioned by The Pearl itself as acceptable to consume. In addition to ocean-based foods, underwater fruits are harvested, offering a variety of tastes and textures. While many mermaids rely on the bounty of the sea, some older mermaids or those with a more introspective or “EMO” disposition choose to farm their own food. These individuals, often likened to witches, tend personal gardens, growing their own crops and herbs, cultivating a deeper connection to nature and their spiritual practices.
The language of Lemon Meridian is as unique and mystical as its inhabitants, with a profound connection to The Pearl, which is believed to name all creatures upon their creation. This divine naming system reflects the mermaids’ deep bond with their origin and the natural world. While most mermaids accept the names bestowed upon them by The Pearl, some individuals, particularly those with a curiosity about human cultures or a desire for personal identity, choose to adopt human names. These names serve as a way to bridge the gap between their aquatic world and the land-dwelling realms. The language itself, however, is a complex, non-verbal form of communication that cannot be heard or understood by humans. Its intricate sounds, gestures, and vibrations are transcribed only by those who are attuned to its frequencies, making it impossible to be fully captured by human writing systems. The language’s essence is a mystery to outsiders, remaining a fluid and ever-evolving mode of expression that flows like the waters of Lemon Meridian itself.
In Lemon Meridian, all magic flows from the Pearl, a sacred and ancient artifact that serves as the heart of their world. Every mermaid is born as either an EMO (“Eminent Magical One”) or a JMO (“Just Magical One”), roles that are determined not by status but by the Pearl’s divine wisdom. EMOs possess extraordinary abilities and carry ancient knowledge passed down through generations, often becoming the custodians of the most complex rituals and protectors of their history. JMOs, on the other hand, are gifted with just enough magic to navigate daily life and perform basic enchantments or communal rituals.
Despite the differences in magical aptitude, jealousy is unheard of within the realm, as all mermaids hold deep reverence for the Pearl’s decisions and trust in its guidance. The communal harmony extends to daily life, with younger mermaids often tending to the needs of older ones, ensuring a cycle of care and respect. Trust is a cornerstone of Lemon Meridian; there are no wars or major conflicts, and even minor disputes—such as miscommunications or accidents—are peacefully resolved by the elders. Theft is nearly nonexistent, as mermaids value sharing over taking; they reserve their sly trickery for humans, a playful homage to their fascination with the land-dwellers. This magical and orderly system ensures that the Pearl’s gifts are preserved and cherished, fostering a society of mutual respect, enchantment, and unshakable peace.
In the society of Lemon Meridian, mermaids would likely have an impressively long lifespan, potentially living for several centuries, if not longer. This extended lifespan is influenced by their magical origins, as they are born from The Pearl, a divine source that may grant them longevity through its connection to timeless energy. Additionally, the abundance of highly nutritious seaweeds in their environment plays a significant role in their health and vitality. Seaweeds are packed with essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins, which help sustain mermaids and keep them in peak condition. The healing powers of Moon Milk, derived from special seaweed, also contribute to their long lives, as it has remarkable restorative properties that could slow aging and heal injuries. With few natural predators and a culture that emphasizes self-care—especially among older or more introspective mermaids who grow their own gardens—their environment fosters a long, healthy existence. Given these factors, mermaids in Lemon Meridian could easily live anywhere from 200 to 500 years, possibly even longer, as they thrive on the bounties of the ocean and the divine influence of The Pearl.