Human Perception of Nagas

There are two types of nagas that inhabit the world's oceans, or three if fish hosts are to be counted. Little research has been performed on these creatures as freshwater nagas are solitary and shy, saltwater nagas are known to be the most aggressive species, and studying these creatures has been almost impossible because shortly after death their bodies rapidly start to decay. What has been found out is that nagas are born with both sexes, their main artery flows through the spikes behind their heads, and that their body contains strong magical components that return to energy as it decays.

All nagas share the same attributes of being somewhat humanoid at the top with a wedge shaped face, a visor, fins alongside the head, a spike on the back of their head, and serpentine throughout. Some wonder if they can even be considered fish at all, but all nagas have at least one base in a type of pure blooded fish. How nagas gain features of natural fish despite being fantastical creatures is unknown. They breathe both air and water, though how long they can be out of the water is also unknown.

They are highly sentient creatures and thought of as being one of the smartest species in the land, surpassing even humans. One woman who had escaped their clutches once spoke of a vast and grand flourishing city underwater that was presumably the saltwater capital.

Freshwater nagas
Any type of fish can be a freshwater naga. However, if a saltwater fish is laid and hatched in fresh waters, they will become a freshwater naga, and vice versa. They are typically dull in colors and quite a bit smaller than their saltwater siblings, and significantly more docile. Despite this, they are still dangerous and will fight for self defense.

One thing the freshwater nagas are particularly good at is finding hot springs. They thrive under warmer waters despite being able to live anywhere. Occasionally travelers come across bath houses run by them. Anyone is welcome, for a small price.

It is thought that their average lifespan is about 100 years. They don't often answer questions about their species and will beat around the bush as much as possible.

Saltwater nagas
The most widely known species of naga is the saltwater nagas. They are highly aggressive and known for starting wars in order to 'reclaim' coastal territory that the humans apparently stole. It's thought that these creatures are incapable of feeling mercy.

A saltwater naga is easy to point out from the freshwater nagas because their colors are bright and brilliant. Some documents taken during wars even show that some are capable of having glowing spots, algae, and scars. Their size ranges from 30 to 50 feet long.