Grey Orc
Gray orcs were just as savage and barbaric as mountain orcs, but lacked the drive to conquer and enslave of their northern kin. They preferred to trust their hearts and instincts over logic, and were likely to react suddenly and irrationally to events. Given the opportunity to attack a hated rival, a gray orc would not hesitate even if that same rival had defeated them countless times before. Even so, gray orcs were noted to be calmer and more collected than mountain orcs.
Culture
Culture and cultural heritage
Gray orcs were just as savage and barbaric as mountain orcs, but lacked the drive to conquer and enslave of their northern kin. They preferred to trust their hearts and instincts over logic, and were likely to react suddenly and irrationally to events. Given the opportunity to attack a hated rival, a gray orc would not hesitate even if that same rival had defeated them countless times before. Even so, gray orcs were noted to be calmer and more collected than mountain orcs.
Funerary and Memorial customs
Grey Orcs are more civilized than their more-or-less feral cousins. One way they prove this is by showing honor to the dead: bodies are typically cremated, usually by pyre. Large pyres are reserved for 'powerful' figures within a tribe or clan; such pyres can include brawls, excessive feasting and drinking, and orgies. While an actual funerary process is more civilized than having none at all, many argue it isn't that civilized, at least when the deceased was either a very hated or widely respected leader.
Historical figures
King Many-Arrows
Ideals
Gender Ideals
Unlike their more wild cousins, Grey Orcs have a much more balanced and equitable view of gender roles in their own society. Males and females can both own property, become warriors or enter religious orders.
Relationship Ideals
Despite a much more equitable view of gender roles, grey orcs still seem to fall into some rote relationship customs: in the vast majority of cases, there is a clear dominant partner. This isn't to suggest their other half is submissive or weak; they are just the weaker of the pair. However, as time goes on, future generations appear to be much more in flux - either partner can be dominant at any turning point. These 'newer' relationships can still be quite violent affairs, where the victor is either the most stubborn or the craftiest fighter. Woe also be to the person who doubts such partners commitment to each other; despite losing a fight, the couple will lock ranks and fight together til the bitter end against a common foe.

Comments