Orc
Orcs, as far as research suggests, were actually the first sentient race to arrive on Llenilan, some decades before even the elves. An imposing people, orcs stand taller than most species and are generally much broader in build. They often find plenty of work as warriors, guards, or manual laborers in the lands of other races. Orcish skin comes in a variety of tones that match the soils of the earth - from dusty tan to muddy red, to deep browns, greys, or greens. Some orcs have tusks that protrude from their lower lips, these are generally larger on males. Orcs have the shortest lives of all sentient races: reaching age 50 makes you an elder, and 60 is practically unheard of. This is countered by a higher birthrate than other species - children are more often than not born as twins or triplets.
Orcs have a reputation of violent pillagers and killers who can't control their impulses. These stereotypes are likely based in historical events that have colored perceptions through the ages. Early human and dwarf colonization inadvertently pushed into orc territory and grazing lands. The land seemed vacant to settlers familiar with year-round residences, while orcs are primarily nomadic and settle into winter camps. The orcs saw the expansion of dwarves and humans into these grazing lands as territorial aggression. This was settled the orc way, through attempted intimidation first, and combat second. When the settlers didn't flee, the orcs drew weapons. These borderland skirmishes were common for hundreds of years - settlers needed more room, and the orcs retaliated at what their culture views as theft. A series of treaties signed with various tribal chiefs near the end of the third era seem to have finally settled these issues. Clear delineation was drawn between orc, human, and dwarven lands, with ample neutral territory between.
Orc society is organized into several loosely affiliated nomadic tribes. It's a primarily pastoral lifestyle - herding yaks, boars, muskox, and sheep across the dusty Badlands in search of good grazing and fresh water. Some use specially trained worgs or large dogs to help keep the herds in line. The wealthier the tribe, the more animals they have. Permanent settlements are usually built inside of log walls, with structures made of logs, hide, and mud bricks. The chief is usually the physically strongest orc (male or female) and upon becoming chief, their parents and parent's siblings are immediately elevated to the status of wise men and women. Marriage is often a transactional relationship in orc society - trading of lands, livestock, weaponry, or tribe members occurs immediately before sealing a deal with a marriage. These marital trades can extend to the humans and dwarves with which they share borders as well.
Many orcs practice the worship of Gruumsh, the orc god of storms and warfare. Ritual animal sacrifices are common, especially under a new moon, to ask for rain that will replenish the grass for their livestock.
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