Stories of the Mer-Folk, especially Mermaids, exist in nearly every culture around the world where there are oceans, lakes, ponds, rivers or streams. Human-like, except for their iridescent, scaly tails, Mermaids and Mermen have fascinated humans for thousands of years. Because the largest of these mystical beings exist in the oceans, most people are not aware that smaller versions of the Mer-Folk live in inland rivers, streams, marshes, and large or small waterfalls. Like many other magical, mythological beings, the Mermaids travel easily between this world and the astral planes, appearing only to those who truly seek to know them and to learn their ancient powers.