Orc

Orcs are often seen as aggressive and brutal—a reputation rooted in conflict but not in the full truth. While they are undeniably strong and fierce, Orcs are also deeply spiritual and communal. Their societies function like any other sentient culture, built on cooperation, survival, and shared values.

Yes, Orcs are physically more powerful than most species, but beneath the muscle is a people capable of great loyalty, wisdom, and emotional depth. If you look past the reputation and history, you’ll find one of the truest friends Elema has to offer.  

by Valcin (Marc ZIpper)

Basic Information

Anatomy

Orcs are a bipedal, medium-sized species with two arms and two legs, ten fingers and ten toes. Their muscular frames are supported by thick bones and dense muscle. They have circular pupils, long side pointed ears, and defined jawlines often featuring elongated lower canines. Facial hair is common among males, and regional differences affect body hair density. Their hair quality is coarse but well-maintained, especially in combat cultures.

Natural Magic

Most Orcs possess a natural resistance to Spirit Magic and a vulnerability to Will Magic. Around 85% of the population wields some form of Spirit Magic, often linked to ancestral power, primal force, or inner essence.

Biological Traits

Orc

Type Sentient (Orc)
Ability Score Modifier Str+4 Con +2 Int-2 Wis-2
Size medium
Speed 30ft
Language Orc starts play speaking Worldest "Common" and Orcish from their tribe. With high Intelligence scores can choose any languages they want (except secret languages, such as Druidic).

  • Ferocity: Orcs possess the ferocity ability which allows them to remain conscious and continue fighting even if their hit point totals fall below 0. Orcs are still staggered at 0 hit points or lower and lose 1 hit point each round as normal
  • Darkvision: Orcs can see perfectly in the dark up to 60 feet
  • Gift of Spirit: gives 50% resistance for Spirit magic and weakness to will magic 50%

Genetics and Reproduction

Orcs reproduce through male-female pairings. After a nine-month gestation period, a child is born. Orcs remain fertile until about age 130.

Growth Rate & Stages

  • Orc are considered infants between the ages of zero to four, during which time they were completely dependent on their parents for food and care. They gradually pick up mobility and world awareness.
  • The next stage is kids who learn, play, and grow between the ages of five to twelve. Although kids are not as dependent on their parents at this point, they are still present to meet the majority of their needs. However, young kids are inquisitive and beginning to understand others and themselves. People have a saying that a young child always hears and retains. My favorite saying from my friends at the bar is “Kids are just little people who become truth drunks”.
  • Between the ages of 13 to 27, their bodies begin to evolve and develop into adults, which is referred to as the teenage years. Their physical body begins to gain figure, height, weight, and muscles. In most situations, this is also where natural magic develops. In most circumstances, they will also begin to establish their identity and become less reliant on their parents.
  • From the ages of 27 to 165, they are in their adulthood, their bodies have matured, and they have a good sense of what their natural magic will do. It will continue to develop as they age, but in most cases, it has a set of talents.
  • From 165 to roughly 220 years of age, they are elders; their bodies have gradually begun to slow down and become weaker, as have their magical talents if they are not kept up with. Other people regard them as wise because they have lived a lengthy life for a human. This is the Orc life cycle.

Ecology and Habitats

Orcs can be found throughout Elema. Their adaptability, survival instincts, and connection to nature, science, and magic allow them to thrive in nearly any biome—whether mountains, forests, deserts, or tundras.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Orcs are omnivores but favor high-protein diets due to their large muscle mass. They require more food than most medium-sized species and often prefer hearty meals centered around meat, root vegetables, and high-calorie stews.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

They have facial hair and elongated teeth.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

  • Vision: See up to 2 miles in daylight. Darkvision granted by light-reflecting tapetum lucidum layer in the eye.
  • Hearing: 20 Hz to 30 kHz—sensitive enough to detect subtle environmental cues.
  • Smell: Can detect a wide range of scents, especially blood, sweat, and natural terrain markers.
  • Touch: Excellent pressure and pain sensitivity, especially in the hands and feet.
  • Taste: Can perceive sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami.

Civilization and Culture

Beauty Ideals

Orc seems to have an innate attraction for powerful individuals. As a result, the majority of them regard scars and muscles as desirable or admirable characteristics.
Genetic Descendants
Lifespan
220 Years
Average Height
5"10- 7"2
Average Weight
200lb to 280lb
Average Physique
Orcs are often underestimated intellectually due to their imposing appearance. In truth, they are deeply spiritual and philosophically driven, especially in matters of honor, ancestry, and the afterlife. While they may not prioritize formal academics, Orcs are rich in oral tradition and practical wisdom.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
  • Skin: Typically shades of gray and green; rarer tones include blue or yellow.
  • Hair: Black, brown, purple, or orange.
  • Eyes: Blue, brown, green, gray, red, or yellow. Eyes often reflect light, giving them an intimidating gleam in darkness.


Cover image: by Valcin (Marc Zipper)

Comments

Please Login in order to comment!