Orc Species in Nilam | World Anvil

Orc

Orc's grayish or green pigmentation, sloping foreheads, jutting jaws, prominent teeth, and towering builds make Orcs an impressive (and often frightening) sight to behold. This has given the impression to many that they are a simple and savage people. While this can certainly be true Orcs can also be dignified and intelligent like any other.   The exact origin of Orcs is unknown. They seem to be on every continent to greater and lesser degrees, almost as widespread as humans and Olark. They live similar lifespans and have similar biology to Humans, but also have the pointed ears of an Elf, and are often accused of being related to pigs (though research has proven this to be bigotry rather than fact). Nonetheless, they are known to be tall, strong, and capable.   An Orc's place in the world varies wildly continent to continent, and nation to nation. For example: In Kalin they are mostly accepted, but often discriminated against, while in Efaanu they are accepted widely.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Half-Orcs are known for their sharp teeth and jutted jaws, as well as their sloped heads. This has given the impression to many that they are a simple and savage people. While this can certainly be true Half-Orcs can also be dignified and intelligent like any other.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

In Kalin

In Kalin Orcs are known as "Half-Orcs" commonly. Right off the bat "Half Orc" is something of a false statement since there are no "full orcs." Realistically Half Orcs and Orcs are the same race.   Instead Half-Orc comes from old terminology in the Torva'Ir referring to the difference between "Civilized" Orcs and "savage" Orcs. Those Orcs who were able to join society were referred to as "Half an Orc" due to their more "stable" nature to the Elves. This distinction still exists today, with "Half-Orcs" being Orcs who live among the other races of Kalin in the nations of Kalin. Meanwhile "Orcs" are those who didn't leave their tribes and clans and still wander throughout the world. These Orcs do tend to be hostile to outsiders, and have garnered a negative reputation for the race due to the fact that most people will only run into true "Orcs" if they're running into a clan that is either desperate or just plain evil enough to raid for food and supplies.   Half-Orcs, due to their background, have been subject to near constant social bigotry wherever they go in Kalin, rarely getting more approval than "grudging acceptance."  

In Efaanu

The Orcish race doesn't have an extensive presence in the continent of Efaanu. Their tribes were once equal with humans according to some archeological evidence, but by the time the Atkorian's arrived in Efaanu the Humans had mostly killed/driven off the Orcs.   Since the days of the Atkorian Empire Orcs have been a minority, but they are found throughout Efaanu in small numbers. They are usually treasured for their strong physique and durability as warriors.  

In Wahar

Orcs are mostly found in nomadic clans and tribes wandering the land of Wahar from the stories told, with some integrating with greater society as a whole.  

In Archin

From what is told, Orcs are common in Archin, but much like Olark, tend to be found in enclaves and not in any one geographic location.

Average Intelligence

Despite stereotype, especially in Kalin, Orcs are a species of no greater or lesser intelligence than Humans.
Origin/Ancestry
Unknown
Lifespan
Orcs mature a little faster than humans, reaching adulthood around age 14. They age noticeably faster and rarely live longer than 75 years.
Average Height
5'11" - 7'
Average Physique
Orcs are somewhat larger and bulkier than humans

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