Orc
Green or occasionally greyish pigmentation, sloping foreheads, jutting jaws, prominent canine teeth, and towering builds make Orcs an impressive (and often frightening) sight to behold. This has given the impression to many that they are a simple and savage people. Though this belief is rarely founded in reality.
The exact origin of Orcs is unknown. They seem to be on every continent to greater and lesser degrees, almost as widespread as humans and Olark. They live similar lifespans and have similar biology to Humans, but also have the pointed ears of Elves, and are often accused of being related to pigs (though research has proven this to be bigotry rather than fact). Nonetheless, they are known to be tall, strong, and capable.
An Orc's place in the world varies wildly continent to continent, and nation to nation. For example: In Kalin they are mostly accepted, but often discriminated against, while in Efaanu they are accepted widely.
Additional Information
Facial characteristics
Half-Orcs are known for their sharp teeth and jutted jaws, as well as their sloped heads. This has given the impression to many that they are a simple and savage people. While this can certainly be true Half-Orcs can also be dignified and intelligent like any other.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
In Kalin
In Kalin Orcs are known as "Half-Orcs" commonly. Right off the bat "Half Orc" is something of a false statement since there are no "full orcs." Realistically Half Orcs and Orcs are the same race. Instead Half-Orc comes from old terminology in the Torva'Ir referring to the difference between "Civilized" Orcs and "savage" Orcs. Those Orcs who were able to join Elven society were referred to as "Half an Orc" due to their more "stable" nature to the Elves. This distinction still exists today, with "Half-Orcs" being Orcs who live among the other races of Kalin in the nations of Kalin. For a time, "full orcs" were those who lived amongst tribes of orcs that sometimes raided "true" society, but as the industrialization of Kalin has continued, all but a few tribes have joined one nation or another either by force or willingly. This makes the denominator of "Half Orc" even less true, if it was ever true at all. "Half-Orc" is also sometimes used as a pejorative towards Orcs who are the result of Orc - Human interbreeding. This is seen as extremely rude.In Efaanu
The Orcish race doesn't have an extensive presence in the continent of Efaanu. Their tribes were once equal with humans according to some archeological evidence, but by the time the Atkorian's arrived in Efaanu the Humans had mostly killed/driven off the Orcs. Since the days of the Atkorian Empire Orcs have been a minority, but they are found throughout Efaanu in small numbers. They are usually treasured for their strong physique and durability as warriors.In Wahar
Orcs are mostly found in nomadic clans and tribes wandering the land of Wahar from the stories told, with some integrating with greater society as a whole.In Archin
From what is told, Orcs are common in Archin, but much like Olark, tend to be found in enclaves and not in any one geographic location.Average Intelligence
Despite stereotype, especially in Kalin, Orcs are a species of no greater or lesser intelligence than Humans.
Origin/Ancestry
Unknown
Lifespan
Orcs mature a little faster than humans, reaching adulthood around age 14. They age noticeably faster and rarely live longer than 75 years.
Average Height
5'11" - 7'
Average Physique
Orcs are somewhat larger and bulkier than humans
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