Morlocks

The Morlocks: A Species/Faction of Wretinridge's Undercity

Overview

Morlocks are a marginalized faction within the Undercity of Wretinridge made up of mutated humanoids—primarily humans, dwarves, and other races—who have been twisted and transformed by exposure to Witchrock. This exposure leads to a complex mix of extraordinary abilities and tragic deformities, creating a unique culture steeped in both resilience and strife.

Origins and Demographics

Morlocks primarily consist of generational members arranged in tribes, descended from ancestors who sought refuge in the Undercity after being shunned by the surface population. Once transformed by Witchrock, transformational effects are inherited by all offspring, ensuring that mutations and magical traits are passed down through generations.

Alongside established Morlocks are newcomers—individuals recently metamorphosed by Witchrock, who now face the stigma and prejudices associated with their transformations. These newcomers can find it difficult to integrate into established Morlock society.

Mutations and Abilities

Mutations among Morlocks are varied, resulting in a wide array of abilities and challenges. Many exhibit remarkable enhancements, gaining unique magical powers, physical prowess, or heightened senses.

Wild magic is common among the population, leading to unpredictable and potent effects that can both empower and endanger them. However, these mutations can also manifest as physical deformities or mental instabilities, adding complexity to their identities as they navigate the dual nature of their transformations.

Common deformities include: elongated or extra fingers, webbed digits, vestigial wings, gills, hemihypertrophy, defensive body barbs or protrusions, antennae, protective eyelids, tendrils or tentacles, distorted facial features, lion's mane, patterned or chameleon skin, bird feet or hooves, quadrupedal locomotion, scales, involuntary spasms and tusks. Most also have some favorable adaptations as well, such as: strengthened bones or higher pain thresholds,enhanced healing, eidetic memory, echolocation or tremor-sense, poison glands, elasticity or malleable body, directional sense, tele- or pyrokinesis.

Society and Culture

Morlock society is characterized by tight-knit communities that provide crucial support and solidarity. Generational Morlocks maintain deep ties to their ancestors, sharing stories and traditions that reinforce their collective identity. Newcomers bring fresh perspectives, enriching Morlock culture with their experiences. Together, they participate in various rituals that honor their transformations and the power of Witchrock, fostering a sense of belonging.

Key rituals include:

Ritual of Acceptance: Welcomes newcomers, allowing them to share their stories and demonstrate their abilities, affirming their place within the community.

Ceremony of the Ancestors: An annual event where Morlocks honor their ancestors, sharing tales of struggles and victories to strengthen intergenerational bonds.

Rite of Transformation: A personal ceremony for individuals wishing to embrace or understand their mutations, involving meditation and wild magic to gain control over their abilities.

Challenges and Aspirations

Morlocks face significant challenges, primarily stemming from the stigma attached to their mutations. This prejudice complicates their quest for acceptance and recognition in a world that often views them with fear and suspicion. Despite these barriers, many Morlocks aspire to connect with surface society, seeking opportunities for understanding and reconciliation. Managing their wild magic and inherited traits presents additional difficulties as they strive for mastery over their powers and identities.

Interactions with Others

Morlocks frequently encounter hostility from the Citysguard and surface dwellers, leading to conflicts and misunderstandings. However, they often form alliances with other factions within the Undercity, leveraging their unique abilities for mutual protection and support. These interactions further shape their identity and influence their role in the broader narrative of Wretinridge.

Conclusion

The Morlocks embody the complexities of life shaped by Witchrock, where heritage and mutation intertwine to create a dynamic community. Their blend of generational members—carrying the legacy of Witchrock in their blood—and newcomers allows them to explore themes of identity, acceptance, and the consequences of magic.

Many of today's Morlocks were once members of the guild Covenant of Ashes ("Purveyors of Witchrock"), spending too much time retrieving, transporting, wharehousing, and trading Witchrock, and there are several sub-factions within their culture including The Lithic Order and Dawnreach.

AI Art by Midjourney