Orc

The **Orcs** are one of the nine races inhabiting Lutharia, hailing from western Cidentaria.

## Origins

The Orcs hail from western Cidentaria and became prominent in the Third Age becoming the second largest race in Lutharia. At the height of Orcish history in the Third Age they ruled over the whole of Cidentaria and held lands in North Orentia and South Orentia. Nearly 80% of the Orcish population were eradicated in the Doomsday events. Only the Orc tribes of western Cidentaria survived the Doomsday events and slowly recovered there strength.

## Characteristics

The Orcs are humanoid beings distinguished by their beige, green or grey mottled skin, heavy build, slit-like nostrils, and lower canines protruding from their mouths. They possess great strength and resilience, however, their denser and heavier bodies tend to make them slower than humans or Elves, nor are they known to be able to jump very high or far. They are shown to have a powerful sense of smell, able to distinguish individuals by scent and can use the smell of sweat and adrenaline to detect when a person is stressed.

## Culture

Orcs live in tightly-knit communities divided into different blood clans, all of which adhere to a “clan law.” Strength, honour and loyalty are valued above all else. Orcs hold a strong social hierarchy with the strongest and most skilled warriors at the top of society. Those that are strongest and hold the most wisdom and leadership skills are elevated to Chieftan of their respective clans. The chieftan makes all decisions for the community and would consult with trusted advisors before making major decisions.

## Religion

Orcish religion is rooted in a deep respect for their ancestors and they are honoured in various rituals and ceremonies. Shamans hold an elevated position in every clan and are said to be able to communicate with past ancestors. Orcish religion has a complex belief system that centres around a pantheon of deities who embody different aspects of life. The ruler and supreme God of the Orcish afterlife is Gargan Todruka who is believed to be the creator of Lutharia.

## Demographics

Orcs inhabit western Cidentaria and can be split into five different sub-races:

* Nordruk - the largest Orc species noted for their beige/grey/green mottled skin. Clans hold the lands of north-west Corsavia.
* Erondruk - the second largest Orc species noted for their dark green skin complexion. Clans hold the lands of eastern Corsavia.
* Ukara - the third largest Orc species noted for their light green/grey skin complexion. Clans hold the lands of west Corsavia.
* Ordavik - the fourth largest Orc species noted for their greyish/white skin complexion. Clans hold the lands of southern Corsavia.
* Korbarak - the smallest Orc species noted for their black/greyish mottled skin complexion. Clans hold the lands of north-east Corsavia.

Cross breeding between the five Orc species is common practice, however off spring are usually viewed as half-breeds and banished by their clans. Viable off spring between Orc and Human is viable however are viewed as an abomination by both Orc and Human society alike. Half-breed and half-blood Orcs will usually live an exiled nomadic life in Cidentaria however there are many communities of half-breed Ocs where a half blood would find some form of acceptance.