"Beasts? Maybe for you and your kin. I am a warrior first. Remember that."
- Khal Urdagi of the Longhorn clan
Orcs, also known as ‘Greenskins’, are the most prolific members of the sentient Orcoid species of Lesserkin.
They are large, powerful bipeds known for the strength and aggression. Though dismissed as mindless brutes by many Elderkin, the Orcs are a proud race of warriors, honourable in ways few others understand.
Orc biology is similar to other sentient races, having evolved convergently to the Elderkin and several Lesserkin. However, they grow much larger than many others, and their muscle and bone structure is far denser, making them one of Tyrrell's most physically dominant species.
Their green skin is another notable trait. Some theorize this skin is similar to the leaves of plants, allowing Orcs to absorb energy passively from sunlight. This theory has yet to be confirmed though.
Like all Orcoids, Orcs require some small intake of the Field to remain at full strength. However, this need is far less than species like the Elves and Dwarves, allowing Orcs to roam more easily in lands where the magical Leylines run dry.
Artwork by Miguel Regodón Harkness.
Orcs are a very physical species, prone to spirited displays of emotion in much that they do. This has lead to them having a reputation as an aggressive, brutish species, which has only been enhanced by Elderkin discrimination.
Orcs are often seen as less intelligent than many other sentient species, a stereotype again stemming from their general sense of passion, often at the cost of subtlety.
Orcs are a nomadic species, preferring smaller tribal communities over larger nations. These communities clash frequently, though not always violently.
Often, tribal disputes are settled by competition rather than war, with many Orcs showing great respect towards displays of physical and mental prowess.
Orcs evolved as a sub-species of the larger Orcoid family, developing within the lands of the Red Steppes.