Marshamall

Marshmall is a small, secluded village nestled in the marshlands just south of Burninggem. Unlike its desert neighbor, Marshmall is surrounded by lush, swampy vegetation and winding waterways. The air is thick with moisture, and a mist often blankets the area, creating an eerie, mystical atmosphere. The village itself is made up of raised wooden structures built on stilts to avoid the marsh’s frequent flooding. Rope bridges and narrow planks connect the various huts and buildings, creating a labyrinthine network of paths above the water.   The people of Marshmall are hardy and resourceful, relying on the marsh’s bounty for survival. They are skilled fishers, herbalists, and hunters, utilizing the rich, fertile land to gather rare herbs, plants, and creatures. Their expertise with natural remedies has made them well-known for their knowledge of healing and potion-making, and many from Burninggem and beyond travel here to seek cures for illnesses and wounds.   Life in Marshmall is quiet and peaceful, but the villagers are always aware of the dangers that lurk in the marsh. Large, predatory creatures, poisonous plants, and quicksand are just a few of the threats they must contend with daily. Despite this, the people are warm and welcoming to travelers who respect their land and way of life. They have a close-knit community and often gather for nightly bonfires, where they share stories of the marsh’s spirits and legends passed down through generations.   Notable Places: -The Greenwater Temple: A small shrine dedicated to the marsh spirits, located at the heart of the village. The villagers believe these spirits protect them from the dangers of the swamp, and offerings of flowers, herbs, and fish are frequently left here to ensure their favor. The temple is an open-air structure built of moss-covered wood, with vines curling around its columns.   -The Eel’s Rest Tavern: The only inn in the village, the Eel’s Rest is known for its marsh cuisine, particularly its smoked fish and eel stew. It’s a modest establishment, with a few rooms for travelers, and the locals gather here to exchange news and tales of strange happenings in the swamp.   -The Rooted Apothecary: Run by an elderly herbalist named Mirella, this shop is famous for its potent healing salves, tonics, and potions. Mirella has lived in Marshmall all her life and is regarded as the village’s wise woman, consulting with visitors on all matters of health and magic.   -Fisher’s Hollow: A deep part of the marsh where the most experienced fishers go to catch rare and dangerous fish. It’s a perilous area with quicksand patches, venomous plants, and large predators, but those who are brave enough to fish here can earn a fortune from the rare catches.   Marshmall's economy is based on the unique resources of the marsh. The village is known for its rare herbs, which are used in alchemy and medicine, as well as the exotic fish and wildlife that only thrive in the marsh’s brackish waters. Herbalists, alchemists, and apothecaries often travel to Marshmall to buy rare ingredients, while traders from Burninggem bring goods like tools and clothing to exchange for the marsh's natural resources. The villagers are also skilled weavers, using reeds and marsh plants to craft baskets, mats, and clothing that are durable and resistant to water.   Surviving in Marshmall means adapting to the unpredictable environment of the marshlands. Frequent flooding, sudden storms, and dangerous creatures are constant threats. The village’s elevated homes help protect them from rising waters, and the villagers have learned to navigate the marsh with expert precision, moving through the narrow waterways in small boats or walking carefully along the raised paths.   Notable Figures: -Mirella the Herbalist: The village’s most respected elder, Mirella has lived in Marshmall her entire life. She is known for her vast knowledge of the marsh’s flora and fauna and is often sought out by travelers for her healing potions and salves. Some say she has a connection to the marsh spirits, and her wisdom is highly regarded in both Marshmall and Burninggem.   -Trevik Marshspear: The village’s protector and head fisherman, Trevik is a towering figure with a quiet, commanding presence. He knows every inch of the marsh and is skilled in hunting and fishing. He teaches the younger villagers how to survive and thrive in their dangerous environment, and his spear, crafted from marshwood, is said to be blessed by the spirits of the swamp.