Hmacèak (culture)
The Hmacèak are the descendants of a migratory fleet from the east that arrived in Rojihlat Mara at the beginning of the 9th Century. Upon arrival, they easily carved out an area to live in from the weakened natives, settling in the ancient metropolis. The Hmacèak were prolific traders who established themselves as the leading economic power in the area over the centuries, with their ports serving as an important stopping point in trading routes from Sarradon to the East. Over time however, they lost their cosmopolitan ways, adopting much of the practices of the people they conquered.
The Hmacèak are also well-known for their skill in dye-making, a holdover from their eastern homeland. They make use of the many creatures of the mangrove forests to create dyes of varied hues, which they liberally apply to their tools and clothing, and a Hmacèak trader at port is easily distinguished by his vibrantly colored hair.