MYSTERY

Little is known about Massuki, and for good reason. The subterranean, snake-like monsters spend their entire lives beneath the red clay of the Jetta Deep, only ever rising to the surface to track prey and ultimately feed. Anyone foolish enough to venture across this barren wasteland will quickly wish they had taken a different route.

CHILLING

Evidence of their size can be found where hollowed-out tunnels emerge topside. While the majority collapse due to the lack of moisture in the earth, a few hold their strength and can measure up to ten feet in diameter. Adult Massuki grow to sixty feet in length, although one unsubstantiated report describes a specimen found rotting on the surface measuring almost twice that length. They are said to have a distinctive, rancid scent, similar to that of decaying meat mixed with stagnant bog water.

EVOLUTION

Although rather terrifying, their overall appearance is an impressive spectacle. A solid, angled skull and a series of stiff barbs along the creature’s jet-black flanks allow them to burrow effortlessly through the clay and loose rock. But with little to push against, the predators will generally flounder in sand. This fact alone makes the Jurkoon Desert a significantly less dangerous location than the Jetta Deep—from Massuki at any rate.

HUNTER

Massuki are highly adept at recognising vibrations on the surface. They can detect even the subtlest movement from over a mile away. Sinewy, pink tentacles coiled inside their skull can taste the air and rake the surface to search out a potential meal. Massuki feed on a wide range of creatures including rabbits, white-tailed deer, sand cats, and cougars. Despite possessing an impressive burst of speed over short distances, if the chase continues for too long, a Massuki will soon tire.

CONTACT

The Narook were among the first on Karadas to fall victim to the Massuki. Before learning of their existence, Narook farmers settled at the northern tip of the Jetta Deep to establish fruit plantations, enticed by the rich, red clay and beaming sunshine. Their profitable new venture did not last long, however. Settlers began to disappear at an alarming rate, snatched and dragged below the surface by the unforgiving Massuki. The plantations were quickly abandoned and news of an unseen menace spread rapidly to the surrounding communities. Surface to say, the Narook never returned.