The Marid are the fewest in number among the Djinn, and the strongest. It is said that a Marid was the first Djinn, and his brothers began the other tribes. Marid are solitary beings, and often live near the coast. They are masters of the weather, and sailors are careful not to anger these Djinn. They can be seen to travel across water as a waterspout and have been known to wreck ships with the wind and waves they can cause. Many Marid delay their Choice until late in life, staying out of the struggle between Islam and diabolical powers. Indeed, many Marid left the mundane world as a result of the Council, choosing to leave rather than side with the two contesting powers. Iblis, the ancient leader of the Ifrit, is said to have a great hatred of the Marid. Legend says that it was the Marid that prevented the Ifrit and the Shaitan from destroying the Jinn in a great battle after the Council of Choice. A marid may appear as a wise old man or a porpoise, or a horse, leading travelers to wise courses.