Narlin
The Narlin are diminutive goblinoids, standing between 80–110 centimetres in height.
Their skin is a lighter, mottled grey-brown — similar to the Grukk’nar, but often faintly iridescent under certain lighting. This is the result of a symbiotic relationship with the metallic dust and industrial residue that saturates their environment.
They possess large, sensitive eyes — typically amber or emerald green — perfectly adapted to low-light conditions. Their limbs are wiry and agile, ending in strong, four-fingered hands perpetually stained with oil and grime.
Most notably, they adorn themselves with salvaged components — gears, wires, scrap plating — strapped to their bodies, woven into their hair, or built directly into crude armour.
Culture & Beliefs
The Narlin are inseparable from the Grukk’nar.
They do not possess an independent culture. Instead, they are shaped entirely by Grukk’nar values — especially the ideals of transformation and profit.
They revere the Grukk’nar as “Great Makers”, beings capable of the ultimate act of creation: turning scrap into wealth.
Their lives revolve around supporting their “Big Brothers,” scavenging, repairing, and fabricating with tireless dedication.
Their guiding belief is simple:
“If it’s broken, it’s worth something. If it’s worth something, it’s gold.”
To the Narlin, craftsmanship is devotion — a way to honour the Great Worm through usefulness.
The Tinkerer’s Code
The Narlin follow a simplified interpretation of the Grukk’nar honour system:
“Turn the Enemy.”
However, where the Grukk’nar apply it in combat, the Narlin apply it in creation.
Function is everything.
A machine that works — that can damage, survive, or endure — is inherently superior, regardless of appearance.
The Scrap-Smithing Impulse
Left unsupervised, the Narlin become something remarkable.
They gather scrap obsessively — broken drones, discarded armour, ruined engines, even medical equipment — and rapidly assemble improvised war machines.
These creations, known as “Rustwalkers,” vary wildly in design but share common traits:
Improvised construction
Surprising effectiveness
Complete disregard for safety
Their ingenuity borders on instinct.
Relationship with the Grukk’nar
The Narlin see themselves as extensions of the Grukk’nar — vital components within their vast engine of profit.
They display constant deference, eagerly awaiting instruction and rushing to fulfil every task. Completed projects are presented with nervous pride, in hopes of praise — and, most importantly, reward.
The Grukk’nar, in turn, genuinely value the Narlin.
They see them as:
Industrious
Reliable
Entertaining
And, above all, profitable.
To the Grukk’nar, the Narlin are not disposable.
They are fun little money-makers — clever, chaotic, and always worth keeping around.
