Appearance: The Subterrans are a distinct race of underground dwellers with features adapted to their subterranean lifestyle. They typically have lean and agile physiques, similar in size and build to humans. Their skin tones range from earthy browns to deep grays, reflecting their close connection to the underground environment. Some Subterrans may develop patterns of lines or markings on their skin, which are unique to each individual and often passed down through generations.   Their eyes are adapted to the dimly lit underground, glowing with an otherworldly luminescence that varies in color, such as soft greens, blues, or eerie purples. These glowing eyes serve as a way to communicate their emotions and intentions, allowing them to express themselves more effectively in the dark.   Masked Breath: Due to the scarcity of suitable air on the surface, Subterrans must wear specialized masks when venturing above ground. These masks are not only functional but often ornate and personalized, reflecting the individual's personality and craftsmanship. The masks can be made from various materials, ranging from forged metal to intricately woven fabrics.   Culture and Society: The Subterrans are a resourceful and inventive race, surviving in the harsh underground environments by scavenging and repurposing materials found in their surroundings. They are skilled tinkers and artisans, creating intricate diesel punk technology that aids them in their daily lives. Their society is organized into small, tight-knit communities, each focused on different aspects of underground life, such as mining, agriculture, or defense.   They are a curious and adaptable race, eager to explore and understand the world above, though they are cautious due to their reliance on masks for survival. Subterrans place a high value on individual freedom and personal choice, often rejecting rigid hierarchies in favor of a more egalitarian society.   Relations with Other Races: The Subterrans are generally friendly and open-minded when interacting with other races, though they prefer to keep their true subterranean cities and technology hidden from outsiders. They are known for their willingness to trade their unique inventions and artifacts with surface dwellers, which has earned them a reputation as skilled merchants and traders.   However, they are also cautious about sharing too much about their underground homes, fearing that their way of life could be exploited or disrupted. Despite their technological prowess, the Subterrans retain a strong connection to nature and respect the balance between the underground and the surface world.   Adventuring Subterrans: Subterrans who leave their underground homes to become adventurers often do so out of curiosity or to find rare components and technologies that could benefit their communities. Their natural affinity for tinkering, scavenging, and knowledge of diesel punk technology makes them versatile and valuable members of adventuring parties.   As they venture into the surface world, Subterrans carry with them their trusty masks, essential for survival in unfamiliar and often hazardous environments. Through their unique abilities and resourcefulness, they forge new bonds with diverse companions, determined to make a positive impact on the world above and below the ground they call home.       Within the Subterran society, the underground dwellers are organized into powerful and influential factions known as "Houses." Each House represents a lineage of Subterrans who have distinguished themselves in various fields, such as technology, mining, leadership, or combat. These Houses are akin to royal families, and their influence extends across their respective territories within the vast underground realm.   House Structure: Each House is led by a respected figure known as the "Patriarch" or "Matriarch," depending on their gender. The leader is often the eldest and most accomplished member of the House, whose knowledge and wisdom are highly regarded. The leadership is not strictly hereditary, as merit and the acknowledgment of the House members play a crucial role in determining the next leader.   Under the leadership of the Patriarch or Matriarch, the House operates as a cohesive unit, with its members bound by loyalty and a shared sense of identity. They work collectively to advance the House's interests, protect their underground territories, and strengthen their influence among the other Houses.   Inter-House Relations: The relationships between the different Houses can vary significantly. Some Houses form alliances based on shared goals or geographical proximity, while others are in a constant state of competition and rivalry, vying for control over key resources and territories. Skilled diplomats and negotiators often mediate between Houses to prevent open conflicts that could endanger the overall stability of Subterran society.   Roles and Specializations: Each House typically specializes in particular areas of expertise. For instance, House Skyrin might focus on developing advanced flying contraptions, while House Stonehammer might be renowned for their expertise in mining and metallurgy. House Nightshade could be skilled in espionage and gathering information, while House Ironheart excels in combat and defense.   House Symbols and Colors: To distinguish themselves from one another, each House adopts specific symbols and colors as their heraldry. These symbols, often associated with elements of their specialization or heritage, are proudly displayed on their masks, banners, and personal belongings. The colors of the House are commonly incorporated into their masks and clothing, allowing members to recognize one another even in the darkest corners of the underground realm.   House Reputation: The reputation of a House is of great importance to its members. The actions and achievements of individuals within a House can elevate or diminish the standing of the entire House in the eyes of the broader Subterran society. As a result, members often strive to bring honor and renown to their House through acts of bravery, ingenious inventions, and contributions to the greater good.   Adventuring Subterrans and Houses: Subterrans who venture beyond their underground homes to become adventurers may still maintain a strong connection to their Houses. They carry the name and legacy of their House with them, seeking to bring pride to their lineage through their deeds on the surface world. The skills and knowledge they gain during their adventures often benefit their House, as they can contribute valuable resources and information to strengthen their faction's position.   However, some Subterran adventurers may find themselves at odds with their House's interests, leading to personal conflicts and dilemmas that further enrich their character development and role-playing opportunities.