Ogre

## Ogres - The Juggernauts of War

### **Background**

Ogres are a massive race created by Rallos Zek. Built for warfare, these hulks long ago ruled an empire that encompassed most of Norrath. Eventually they formed an immense army to challenge the Rathe Council on the Plane of Earth. For demonstrating such pride, the Rathe laid a curse upon all of Zek's creations, crippling their intelligence and causing their empire to crumble. Ogres became the pawns of other races, remaining largely confined to their crude stone huts in the Feerrott when not engaged in small-scale conflicts.

When the gods eventually withdrew from their planes, the veil was lifted from the minds of the Ogres. They had just begun rebuilding their culture when they were visited by the Avatar of War, who had been ordered by Rallos to organize a new Rallosian Empire designed to wipe out all other races from the face of Norrath. However, Ogre high commander, General Urduuk, broke a pact that Rallos had made with Cazic-Thule, by taking control of Cazic's temple and the gate to the Plane of Fear.

The Avatar of Fear unleashed the Green Mist, wiping out nearly all of the Ogre race. Their massive frame makes them unparalleled as Fighters. With intelligence on par with Humans, they also study some of the Mage arts. Their size limits their Scout potential, though their sadistic nature lends well to the life of a Brigand.

### **Faith**

Despite the hardships that have resulted from devotion to their creator, Ogres continue to faithfully worship Rallos Zek, albeit quietly. A clerical caste has developed in their society, though they also continue to honor their shamanistic traditions. All forms of worship are performed as if it were a military ceremony, rituals fit for the gods of war

### **Effects of the Shattering**

Ogres only escaped annihilation because a small pocket of soldiers was deep inside Guk pursuing Frogloks. When they emerged and found their culture eliminated, they decided to keep an extremely low profile in the Feerrott, initiating no further conflict with other races until they had a chance to rebuild some measure of a society. When the Rending began, many Ogres fled northward toward Freeport. To their surprise, Lucan allowed them to take up residence within the city, providing they pledged to become part of his army and navy. The Ogres readily agreed, eager to give the impression that they have given up on their past dreams of conquest. While Ogres insist they are willing to do their part to support Freeport's growth, few others believe that they have honorable intentions. Though Ogres are rarely in direct conflict with Lucan's favorite enforcers, most other races are keeping a close eye on them, waiting for the day when their legendary pride surfaces again. Indeed, Lucan himself watches closely as well.

### **Pros and Cons**

#### **Pros:**

* With a whopping 30 Strength, there is no argument that the Ogre is the best packhorse and the best melee damage dealer that you can find.
* Stamina, too, is a forte of the Ogre; you'll have very high Hit Points!
* Ogres make wonderful Priests as well; they have a lower Wisdom, yes, but it's very hard to kill an Ogre, and all enemies seem to want to kill the Priest.

#### **Cons:**

* Though they have high Strength and Stamina, their Wisdom, Intelligence and Agility all take quite a hit; an Ogre Mage or Scout is going to be hard to pull off. Can you see an Ogre sneaking around without being noticed?