Neressa is one of the Nine Ladies of the Aurethian faith, the divine Lady of the Sea and Fishing. She governs the sea, ships, sailors, navigation, storms, fishing, ports, and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Sailors pray to her before voyages, fishermen before setting their nets, and coastal settlements when storms threaten. Her virtue is Readiness, respect for uncertainty expressed through preparation. Her sin is Presumption, knowingly entering danger unprepared while assuming luck, skill, status, or divine favor will suffice.

Neressa is traditionally depicted as a tall, long-limbed woman in her early thirties with deeply sun-browned skin, a narrow face, grey-green eyes, and very long black hair worn loose in heavy waves. Artists frequently portray her hair and clothing as caught by wind even in otherwise still scenes. She usually wears a simple sleeveless working dress gathered above the ankles and is shown barefoot. Rope, fishing net, or ship's line are common accompanying symbols.