The Zharruk Kingdom is a sprawling realm nestled deep within an ancient, enchanted forest. It is a world where nature and civilization are inseparable, dominated by the Zharra race—pale, mystical dwellers who share an ethereal connection with the woods. While outwardly a place of druidic power and artistry, it harbors a dark, dual nature. Within the Zharruk underbelly lies the Gnashed Borough, a rough settlement inhabited by cannibalistic tribes who provide "grim services" to the kingdom in exchange for sustenance.
Hadda is the heart of Zharruk, a capital city built directly into the trunks and branches of colossal, living trees. It serves as a hub of druidic authority and high artistry.
The Cavernous Palace: Beneath the canopy stands the Cavernous Palace of Zharruk, an immense underground structure carved from black stone that echoes with ancient power.
The Royal Seat: Inside the palace is The Zharruk Feast Table, an intricately carved stone table where the monarch presides. Kingdomfolk use a rhythmic cacophony of banging mugs and cutlery to signal their approval or disapproval of the King’s latest decrees.
Centers of Lore and Healing: The kingdom is home to the Zharruk Caves of Knowledge, a network of ancient caves housing lost libraries and forgotten lore. This knowledge is curated at the Zharruk Medicine Institute and Surgery Center, where healing is treated as a high-arcane art.
Common Industry: For the common folk, the Hadda Ale House and Zharruk's Wild Grape Winery serve as social anchors, providing potent brews and wild grape ferments.
Zharruk is governed by a tactical king and a visionary queen, both of whom are acutely aware of the encroaching "prelude to chaos":
King Hashta: A stern Haghath military King. He is a tactical genius who leads his people with unyielding resolve and direct command.
Queen Anira: A tall, serene Zharra ruler. Though she leads with wisdom, she is characterized by an underlying anxiety regarding a "coming storm".
Sage Gaya: A wise Zharra sage residing in the Caves of Knowledge, she serves as a vital counselor to the royalty, prioritizing ancient lore above all else.
The forest is not merely a home, but a living weapon system:
Zharruk's Blazing Anvil: A hidden forge powered by geothermal vents and ancient ingenuity, where master smiths like Yhat craft weapons of unparalleled quality.
The Beetle Nest: The kingdom is protected by the Zharruk Great Beetle Nest, a colossal, mountain-sized hive of chitinous plates and insectoid limbs that acts as a single entity.
Border Sentinels: Sites like Zharruk's Last Point mark the final outposts of civilization, currently overseen by stern commanders like Kaelen to ensure the security of the forest borders.
The Irya Connection: The Zharruk Sacred Riverbank of Irya Zharra is considered holy ground, offering free passage and spiritual significance to the tribe even in times of war.