The Gentle Ones, Half-Orcs

Basic Information

Anatomy

Half-Orcs are a bulkier humanoid species. The are generally one of the tallest species as well, being comparable to the Dragonborn.

Genetics and Reproduction

Half-Orcs reproduce in the same manner as other humanoid species. The have a gestation period of around 6 months with a live birth.

Growth Rate & Stages

Half-Orcs mature faster than most other races. Adulthood arrives around the age of 14, and they age visibly faster than humans.

Ecology and Habitats

The Half-Orcs are well adapted to the harsh life of the desert. Their bodies are built to withstand long periods of drought and famine.

Dietary Needs and Habits

The Half-Orc diet consists mostly of vegetables. The garden city of Hel’Al grows enough produce to support its citizenry as well as El’Jenai. The sailors of El’Jenai are masterful fisherman and catch enough fish to share also with Hel’Al. The culinary arts are a major part of Half-Orc society. Spices and rare ingredients are prized in the Half-Orc diet.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Half-Orcs have distanced themselves from the warlike nature of their ancestors. Civil discourse is the method for solving issues. The priesthood of Eudora occupies the roles of leadership within Hel’Al. El’Jenai bows to the whims of the Merchant’s Court. The wealthiest and most influential traders are the leaders here.

Facial characteristics

The Half-Orc face is characterized by large broad noses. Some may be flattened slightly, hearkening back to their orcish roots. A variety of different ear shapes can be found amongst this race. They usually have strong square jawlines with a prominent brow. Most Half-Orcs also exhibit lower tusks that protrude from their mouths.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Half-Orcs are present in all of the major cities, but their highest concentration lies in Hel’Al and El’Jenai.

Average Intelligence

Half-Orcs have an average intelligence comparable to that of Humans.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Their orcish blood has granted the ability to see in the dark.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Half-Orcs are given a name at birth by their parents. They now adopted the practice of family names in place of clan names. It was thought that stringent adherence to clan titles and names would lead inevitably to conflict.

Major Organizations

The Tenders

Average Technological Level

The Half-Orcs of Hel’Al are the best horticulturists in the entirety of Dimfell. They have cultivated numerous new species of plant. They are also known to have the finest healers and convalescent homes. El’Jenai has been credited with creating the most accurate maps of the ocean currents and coastline. Their ships are the only vessels that are able to brave the deep ocean waters.

Major Language Groups and Dialects

Orcish and Common.

Common Dress Code

The desert is a harsh environment. Light clothing that moves easily is preferred for many of the inhabitants. El’Jenai has brought in a taste for embroidery and ornamentation on clothing. Even the humblest Half-Orc garment will sport some for of embellishment.

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

City wide prayers are observed at moonrise every night. Their poetic verses carry on the wind and grant comfort to all who hear them. Harvest feasts in Hel’Al are a grand spectacle that is attended by people from all across the Island. Two are observed yearly and they last for an entire week. Manners and etiquette are taught early on to their children. Rudeness is an unacceptable behavior for any in Half-Orc society.

Common Taboos

Fighting in the streets is strictly forbidden. Altercations should be brought before a city defender for adjudication. Outburst of anger are considered unseemly and will arouse suspicion from nearby citizens.

History

In the years following the Calamity, savage Orcs formed war tribes to conquer what remained of civilization. These Orcs along with Goblins and Trolls were a scourge upon the small Half-Orcs settlements. It was not until the discovery Hel’Al and El’Jenai that the Half-Orcs could find a safe haven. Hel’Al with its massive battlements, and El’Jenai with its natural defenses were the optimal places for permanent settlement, and they became the cradles of civilization for the Half-Orcs. They were not like other races, the Half-Orcs had knowledge that they were not alone after the calamity, as both cities came from a single founding clan that split apart to increase their chances of survival.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

The saying goes, “You can always trust a Half-Orc to have a warm meal and good company.” All other species hold the Half-Orcs in high regard. Their traders are honest and fair. Their homes are open and welcoming.

Scientific Name

Half-Orc

Origin/Ancestry

Orc/ Humanoid

Lifespan

75-80 years

Average Height

6’-7’

Average Weight

180-250 lbs.

Average Physique

Orcish blood breeds true, and it shows in the physique of the Half-Orcs. Their warlike ancestors have left their hardiness and strength to their descendants. Half-Orcs boast a much greater average strength and constitution than other humanoids.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The Half-Orcs come in a variety of hues. Greens, reds, yellows, and browns are the most common skin pigmentations.