The Maruk

The Maruk were once a proud and powerful people, known for their unparalleled skill in crafting intricate jewelry and their deep connection to the natural world. They lived within the ancient lava tubes and vast caverns of the Mountains of Hunger. These subterranean homes, carved by millennia of volcanic activity, provided them with protection and resources. The Maruk thrived in their underground world, utilizing geothermal heat and rich mineral deposits to sustain their society and create stunning works of art.
However, fate had other plans for the Maruk. A series of catastrophic earthquakes shook the very foundation of their underground world. The once-stable caverns and lava tubes collapsed, forcing the Maruk to abandon their homes. As the Mountains of Hunger became treacherous and unstable, the Maruk became wanderers, searching for a new place to call home.
The Maruk, though Human, have distinct characteristics and traditions that set them apart from other inhabitants of Nehwon. One can identify a Maruk by the following features and customs:
Stature: Maruk are generally shorter than the average Human, standing at an average about 5 feet tall, but sometimes as small as 3.5 to 4 feet tall. This compact stature is a result of generations living in the confined spaces of their underground homes within the Mountains of Hunger.
Facial Adornments: Men and women wear patterns of paints and clays on their faces. These patterns can vary greatly in complexity, from intricate designs covering significant portions of the face to a single stripe or smudge. The choice of design reflects the wearer's personal taste and social status.
Hair: Maruk men shave their heads bald, while the women allow their hair to grow. Sometimes they allow their hair to grow extremely long, often reaching down to their ankles. They take great pride in their hair, utilizing intricate braiding and wrapping techniques to keep it kempt and orderly. These hairstyles are not only a matter of personal grooming but also a form of art and cultural expression.
Jewelry: As master jewelers, Maruks often adorn themselves with their own creations. These pieces are not just for decoration but also signify their heritage and skills. Maruk jewelry is renowned for its craftsmanship, featuring intricate designs and high-quality gemstones.
Clothing: Their clothing, while practical for travel and work, often includes elements that display their artistry. Embroidery, beadwork, and other embellishments are Common, showcasing the Maruks' attention to detail and aesthetic sensibility.
Community Bond: Maruk are often seen together, reflecting their strong sense of community and mutual support. They tend to move in small, tight-knit groups, whether within the bustling streets of Lankhmar or in the quieter enclaves of Elaysia.

The Journey Through Lankhmaria

Their journey took them through some of the most perilous and mystical regions of Nehwon. After abandoning the Mountains of Hunger, the Maruk journeyed south, following the coastline of the Lakes of Pleea. The shimmering waters of the lakes offered them a temporary respite, and they foraged for food along the lush shores. Their path eventually led them to the town of Elaysia, a bustling settlement known for its hospitality and vibrant markets.
In Elaysia, the Maruk found a welcoming community that was captivated by their superior jewelcrafting abilities. They stayed in Elaysia for approximately two months, during which time they traded their intricate jewelry for supplies and forged strong bonds with the Elaysians. About 30% of the Maruk decided to settle permanently in Elaysia, appreciating the stability and warmth the town offered. These settlers integrated into Elaysian society, enriching it with their culture and craftsmanship.
The remaining 70% of the Maruk, driven by a desire to continue their quest for a new homeland, headed north on the King's Road. Their journey was arduous, with frequent stops along the way to rest and replenish their supplies. They encountered various communities, some welcoming and others wary, but the Maruks' resilience and skills in trade helped them navigate these challenges.

Lankhmar: The City of Adventure and Peril

Eventually, the Maruks arrived at the gates of Lankhmar. The city, known for its chaos and opportunity, was a stark contrast to the Maruks' lost homeland. Here, they faced a different kind of struggle, navigating the complex social hierarchies and the cutthroat world of Lankhmar's markets.
The Maruk established a small enclave in the Maze, Lankhmar's notorious district of winding alleyways and hidden dangers. Despite the hardships, they thrived, their jewelry becoming highly sought after by the wealthy and influential. Their reputation as master craftsmen grew, and with it, their influence in the city.

The Call of the Ancestors

Yet, despite their success, many Maruk felt a deep yearning for their lost homeland. They spoke of their cavernous dwellings within the Mountains of Hunger in hushed tones, telling tales of its beauty to their children and grandchildren. This longing culminated in a movement among the younger Maruk, who sought to reclaim their ancestral land.
Guided by ancient maps and the wisdom of their elders, a group of Maruk adventurers set out to rediscover their lost caverns. Their journey was fraught with danger, but the Maruk were determined, driven by the hope of restoring their homeland and their heritage.

Reclaiming the Caverns

After a few weeks of searching, the Maruk found their way back to the Mountains of Hunger. The caverns, though still scarred by the earthquakes, showed signs of recovery. The adventurers worked tirelessly to restore their underground world, using their knowledge of geology and their deep connection to the natural world.
Word of their efforts spread, and slowly, more Maruk left Lankhmar to join the reclamation. The caverns began to flourish once more and their underground homes became a symbol of hope and renewal in Nehwon, a reminder that even in the face of great adversity, a displaced people can reclaim their heritage and rebuild their future. Not all of the Maruk left back to their homeland. Some of them had built prosperous businesses, integrated themselves into their communities, and had become accustomed to city life.

Maruk by Chad Watson via Midjourney