Kulroq

Kulroq are large bullfolk, the children of Gaumad the Wise, son of Nyx and Veres. Kulroq are heavily-muscled, with cloven hooves and tufted tails. They stand, on average, at about seven feet tall, their heads crowned by horns. Despite their impressive size, most Kulroq are not predisposed to violence, though their size makes them very effective fighters when needed. Kulroq are covered in very short, fine fur, though this fur is much longer and thicker on the head. 
=== History ===
Kulroq were created during the Age of Giants, when Nyx convinced the Voru to make mortals for herself and her children. Kulroq were shaped to the desires of Gaumad, who took his children to Alba where they were largely insulated from the catastrophic Night Wars. Alban Kulroq mostly dwelled along the coasts, fending off raids from centaurs who occupied the meadows. When Alba began to freeze, the Kulroq tribes chose to follow the orcs south in the Great Passage. However, Avrasia and Heide did not appeal to Kulroq temperaments, and they sailed into the Zurul Sea. Led by Demetrius the Navigator, the Kulroq ultimately settled on the island of Alasha, spreading out to explore the mainland. There, they encountered the Theroi, a human tribe that was constantly fending off raids from the Azlan. The Kulroq began to trade with the humans, sharing the arts of civilization with them. The Theroi used their new knowledge to push the Azlan out of their lands, securing their freedom. When Age Zero ended, the Theroi tribe was united under the leadership of Akamos the Strong. He attacked Alasha, intending to make the Kulroq his vassals before going on to conquer all the cities of the Zurul Sea. But Akamos was defeated and he escaped west, into the Pale Marshes. Akamos would later go on to found the Dominion of Orestes, which forever after would be an enemy of Locia. 
Without Akamos to unify it, the Theroi tribe splintered into competing clans that each went on to found city-states around the Zurul Sea. The Kulroq patronized all of these cities, trading with them and shaping their politics and culture. When Muno Three-Eyed founded the Manteion in 532 IR, the Kulroq were eager to add their knowledge to the great library. They shared their martial skills with the Locian city-states as well, and Kulroq hoplites were instrumental in forestalling Gallia's ambitions to control the whole Zurul. 
Kulroq, though concentrated in Locia, also travelled to other parts of Altea. A large number are found in Orestes as well as Praesia. Quite a few Kulroq settled on the Herding Plains that offer passage through the Seiyuf Mountains into the Sunlands. These Kulroq are more primal and closely attuned to the dragon gods than the civilized, city-dwelling Kulroq. 
Through the Ages, the Kulroq have remained staunch defenders of Locian independence, and Kulroq have served in both the government and army. Though Alasha is the home of the Kulroq, they are found throughout Locia in prominent positions, eagerly participating in civic life. 
=== Society ===
Kulroq are generally thoughtful beings, slow to anger and careful to consider their actions. This is not to say they are pacifists, but Kulroq society tends to favor non-violent approaches. When conflict is inevitable, the Kulroq are dangerous combatants, their discipline coupled with their innate strength making them fearsome foes. Kulroq societies are often centered around cults of Gaumad, and the high priests of these cults act as advisors, calling together councils and adjudicating on important matters. Philosophy are scholarship are highly prized, and the Kulroq constantly attempt to beautify their surroundings, raising grand structures and laying out magnificent gardens in which to stroll about and think. This emphasis on thought has made some underestimate the Kulroq. But they apply the same rigor and discipline to the arts of war. Kulroq hoplites are exceptionally skilled and in great demand. Locian rulers frequently seek to patronize these warriors, who are often the last bulwark between city-states and invading forces. Some Kulroq hire themselves out as mercenaries, enjoying the chance to travel, learn and sample the delights of foreign lands, for the Kulroq are quite well-known for their ebullience. They enjoy feasts and festivities, celebrating amidst the splendor of their surroundings. They will fiercely fight to protect their civilization, which the Kulroq consider the most sophisticated in the world. 
=== Religion ===
Kulroq are often strongly devoted to the Old Ones, particularly Gaumad, the creator of Kulroq. Several other cults are prominent within Kulroq societies. Worship of Hila is favored by warriors and those who work with fire. Taso is a favorite of sailors as well as mystics who believe that Grandfather Ocean contains unfathomable secrets. Female Kulroq are usually responsible for fertility rites, and they worship Anyu, Druna and dryads within their sacred groves. Some few Kulroq worship Manah the Black Moon in secret rites as well. Due to influence from humanity, Kulroq also pay obeisance to the Outsiders, especially the patrons of Locia: Azin and Ranu. Due to the Kulroq's strong connections to the sea, Myrmex is a popular god, and Demetrius, who led the Kulroq to Alasha, is also honored as an ancestor spirit, responsible for guiding and protecting seafarers.
Category:Races