Fenwalkers - Noma (NOH-ma)

The Noma people, commonly called Fenwalkers, are a nomadic, boat-faring society, with colorful loose garb and a love of song and community. They come across as charismatic, open, and friendly to outsiders - however, this is usually a facade to hide a secretive and mistrustful nature.
Family, and especially found family, is the foremost value of the Noma. There are strict and complex rules about obligation between the tribe ("radena" - meaning "family"), but to others it seems that a Noma will drop everything that matters to them in order to come to the aid of another member of their tribe. These groups consist largely of halflings, humans, and half-elves, but most tribes have at least a few other races among them.
Perhaps most notable is their connection to the Neverending Mire. They undergo a ritual which grants them a special attunement to the swamp, which allows them to easily sail through its treacherous terrain. The spirit of the swamp allows them this privilege, as well as access to its bounty, in exchange for their protection and servitude. Much in the way that a Noma will stop to help another tribe member, they will also go out of their way to provide for the flora and fauna within the swamp, and especially Yldrion, Archtree .
Noma are not confined to the swamp, however, and can be found anywhere along Wyrmwuld's lengthy river systems, trading their handmade goods for exotic wares, and then trading those wares further on down the river. Because of the eclectic nature of their collections, a convoy of Noma are a welcome sight to most mercantile communities.
Despite their friendly demeanor, however, they are hard bargainers and know with incredible precision the worth and sell values of most wares they come across. Haggling is an important part of their culture as well, and to buy something without haggling will often result in a slightly pitying smile.

Culture

Major language groups and dialects

The Fenwalker tongue is a mish-mash of other languages including Common, Halfling, and Elvish. They speak Common when interacting with Outsiders.

Shared customary codes and values

Always be a gracious host.
Family before everything.
Never trust an outsider.

Common Dress code

Loose fitting, colorful clothing, similar to seafaring folk

Art & Architecture

Wide, spacious house boats strung with red and gold flags, hanging lanterns, and family crest flags. They are also well known for their whittled wood carvings made from swamp tree knots.