- The Orcs -
Government:
This is a Monarchy centered around the Females of the Royal Family.
Primary Language:
Common Tongue, for the most part.
Native Lands Data:
The core of their nation is centered to the lands in the South, a place known as Valor's Edge that has lush fields, forests, and swamps.
Physiology:
Humanoid, yet very different from the other species. Along with the obvious external differences, their fangs/height/skin tones, one must also remember that Orcs possess two hearts and a greatly enhanced durability to their very bones and muscles. Their skin is harder to cut or bruise, their bones much more difficult to break, and true to their purpose they seem to posses uncanny reserves of stamina and strength. Reproduction is a bit slower due to the 2-year pregnancy span, Orcs can live anywhere from 290 - 305 years old. Their eyes are quite adept at seeing in the dark, so be wary. They stand at a proud 6ft - 7ft tall.
Society:
A lively and semi-advanced culture they rely heavily on tradition and a strong sense of moral code. Feats of strength, bravery, and honor are very important to these people; A warrior will receive far more respect than a craftsman or bard in their midst. They are also greatly superstitious, magic is wielded by their Shamans thus any born with the gift are swiftly pushed into such a role. Yes they are a Monarchy and as such answer to their Queen, as the ruler is always female and considered 'sacred' by their culture', but in the day to day life these peoples show themselves to be intelligent and hard working if a little contradictory. They are proficient at using technology yet have no real motivation to invent it themselves beyond their basic needs. They hunt, craft, and live almost as naturally as they had been since their God-Parent Bjormat created them. The only real evolution they've shown is their war tactics and weapon crafting. Armor isn't that important in their minds, after all a worthy warrior takes pride in their scars, so it isn't as impressive as their weapon trade.
These beings were bred for survival in harsh environments, no matter how intelligent and strong they may be much of their culture still revolves around the fact that they are taught to value 'the needs of the many over the few'. They also continue to harass Dwarves and any they view as 'Sympathizers'.. A long-ago grudge from a time when the greed of the Dwarves cost their allies the Silurin peoples their lives. They are a disciplined peoples, resolute and loyal, and they are respected by their peers for standing firm on their ideals even when they conflict with those around themselves. Friends of these people are treated well and, if needed, avenged viciously.
Additional Customs:
Marriage- Though monogamous relationships do occur, and are celebrated accordingly, it is not actually that common for mated pairs to stay together for more than a decade or so.
Beliefs- Faithful followers of Bjormat they believe the night is his blessing to the world and that those in his care are favored, likewise to this day most of their breed dislike Dwarves for their hostile take-over of Silurin lands and for this the orcs continue hostilities towards them on the sly.
Code - In times of battle it is common for males and females to be treated the same, there is no gender-specific stereotypes for this species.. However this also means there is no real protecting or mercy for females in war. It is a natural practice that, when a warrior kills a mated pair or single parent, he or she adopt their young and raise it themselves as it is now their responsibility for taking away the youth's providers. Children are valued and protected, a Warrior's reputation doesn't only hinge on their own prowess in battle but also how many children they have and how skilled/loyal those children are. Regardless of what species that child may be, they've even been known to adopt Humans and Dwarves if given no other choice.
Common Foods: Seafood and vegetables are most common, fruits and red meats depending on the area. Surprisingly lucrative trade in baked sweets and unique candies.
Common Drinks: Tea is rather common, water much more so, but for such a rambunctious species they do not indulge in alcohols much.
