The Semk were a Seven Cities tribe centered in the Karas Hills and Steppes who had an avowed hatred of all who were not Semk. They had a reputation as fierce warriors who kept captive enemies alive so that they could torture them. During battle, they covered themselves in ash and fought in a wild, undisciplined manner. They were feared by the Tithansi. The Semk's tribal god was an ancient and vicious Ascendant who granted the tribe's sorcerers their powers.