“We are not what they call us. We are what we build, what we carry, and what we protect.”
— Orc
Orcs, or Oroch-tii as they’re known in their tongue, are often seen outside of cities and within their villages or strongholds. Few are seen within the cities on the continent, most preferring the company of their kind. Mistakenly, they are seen as primitive and brutal people. Likely stemming from the fact that an Orc is oftentimes stronger than a Human or Elf, or from their physical appearance, which to some, appears frightening. In truth, their societies and values are quite complex. Orcs often value proficiency, strength and loyalty; these traits lead Orcs to be strong warriors, great craftsmen, and strangely well-learned scholars.
Life expectancy: 75~ years
Height: 6'2"—6'6" ft. (max.) [1,88—1,98 m.]
Weight: 190—225 lbs. [86—102 kg.]
Language: Grákh’an
It appears as though there are two distinct groups of Orcs: the ones hailing from the mountains of Southern Keleva and those who have settled along the coasts of the continents. Orcs of the coast have dull, blue skin with dots, lines, and other markings that appear to serve as natural camouflage in their environment, and short yet pointed ears that showcase their adaptability. Unlike their coastal brothers, mountainous Orcs have green skin that is mostly dull and lacks any discernible patterns. The eyes and hair of Orcs are naturally dark. The most noticeable difference is the large tusks that resemble animal tusks and grow from the bottom row of teeth. Curiously, some of the coastal Orcs practice filing of the teeth and tusks to points as a status symbol, making them appear even more beastlike.
Orcs feel pressure, fear, and panic like anyone else. They don’t break as easily. When they’re staring down a furious noble or standing in front of a judge, they don’t waver. It’s not because they’re fearless—it’s because they’re stubborn. Where most people pause or give in, Orcs dig in and keep going. They don’t back down; they get through it.
As stated previously, Orcs are often taken at face value and seen as more primitive than they truly are, being mistaken as a violent and primitive race. While it is true that there are many Orcs who have little patience for remarks about their appearance or their state of mind, this does not define how they treat everyone. Some Orcs may appear as closed-off or aloof, but when they do open up, their true intelligence is displayed. When making friends, the Orcs are quite the ally, most valuing loyalty and seeing betrayal or underhandedness as shameful. Orcs have proven to be adaptable in many environments and crafts; their inclination to master a skill has made them valuable to numerous societies and individuals, and they are generally a powerful ally to have.