The Maraketh
The ancient Vaal temple of Queen Atziri, lost in time and guarded by her constructs.
The Temple of Atzoatl, introduced in version 3.3, is the ancient Vaal temple of Queen Atziri, not a stronghold of the Eternal Empire. Accessed through Alva's time-travel mechanics, it is populated by Vaal constructs, Atziri's guardians, and time-displaced Vaal inhabitants. The Maraketh are a distinct desert-dwelling people of Wraeclast, unrelated to this temple.
- Affiliation
- Vaal (Atziri's Domain)
- Location
- Temple of Atzoatl (accessed via time-travel)
- Primary Adversary
- Incursion invaders and modern explorers
- Status
- Ancient Vaal temple, temporally unstable
- Specialization
- Vaal architecture and temporal incursions
Lore & Background
The Temple of Atzoatl is a relic of the Vaal civilization, ruled by Queen Atziri. It does not serve the Eternal Empire or maintain any barrier. Instead, it is a time-lost structure that adventurers explore through Alva's temporal incursions, facing Vaal constructs, guardians, and the remnants of Atziri's reign. The Maraketh, a nomadic desert people, have no connection to this temple or its defenders.
In Their Own Story
The wind howled through the stone arches of the Temple of Atzoatl, carrying whispers that did not belong to this world. A lone Maraketh stood vigil before the great seal, his staff glowing with a faint blue light against the encroaching darkness. Shadows coalesced at the edge of the chamber, forming shapes that were almost human but twisted by greed and madness. He did not flinch as they advanced, knowing the cost of failure was the end of all things. With a silent chant, he struck the ground, sending a pulse of energy outward to repel the intruders. The barrier held for another day.
Reader's Guide
The Maraketh function as a specialized faction within the broader lore of Path of Exile, distinct from the major powers like the Templar or the Vaal. Their primary goal is the maintenance of the seal containing the Eternal Empire, preventing Atziri’s forces from invading Wraeclast. Members are typically monks or priests who have sworn oaths to silence and service. They do not seek power or wealth; their only currency is the safety of the world. In gameplay terms, they appear in specific map biomes and league storylines where players may encounter them as allies against overwhelming odds. Their role in the conflict is defensive rather than offensive. While other factions fight for territory or resources, the Maraketh fight for containment. They are often found guarding key locations within the Temple of Atzoatl, requiring those who enter to prove their worth before they will offer aid.
Did You Know?
- The Temple of Atzoatl was introduced in version 3.3 (Incursion league), not 3.15.
- The temple is a Vaal structure, not associated with the Eternal Empire or its Empress.
- Its defenders are Vaal constructs and Atziri's guardians, not Eternal Empire forces.
- No barrier between Wraeclast and the Eternal Empire exists; the temple is accessed via Alva's time-travel.
- The Maraketh are a separate desert-dwelling people, unrelated to the Temple of Atzoatl.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are The Maraketh?
This faction consists of ancient monks who secretly protect the boundary separating Wraeclast from the Eternal Empire. Most outsiders know little about them except for clues left behind by travelers inside their temple.
Where do The Maraketh reside?
Their main stronghold is located inside the Temple of Atzoatl, a sacred site hidden from most. From this base, they oversee the magical seals that keep dangerous entities at bay.
What is The Maraketh's primary role?
Their core duties involve upholding magical barriers and engaging in specific combat rituals to stop invasions. They act as the final barrier preventing the Witch Queen's army from escaping their domain.
Who are The Maraketh's enemies?
They fight against the corrupted followers and the Witch Queen herself who threaten to break through the seal. These entities represent the primary danger that the order is sworn to contain.
What is the current status of The Maraketh?
Although they are still operating, their presence remains a mystery to the general public of Wraeclast. This isolation helps them maintain focus on their critical defensive mission without interference.
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