Eastern Orcs

Overview

Eastern Orcs stand as magnificent examples of natural warrior evolution, their imposing frames built for both endurance and combat across the harsh northern territories. These proud beings tower above most other races, their muscular builds speaking to generations of survival in one of Aethoria's most unforgiving environments—the Wild Lands. They are organized into five mighty tribes, each containing multiple clans that trace their ancestry back to great heroes of old.

Physical Characteristics

Eastern Orcs tower above most other races at 7-9 feet in height, with massively muscled frames, broad shoulders, and powerful limbs. Their deep brown to gray-green skin often bears ritual tattoos and war paint, while prominent lower tusks are carved with clan symbols and achievements. Deep amber, brown, or green eyes shine with keen intelligence, and their black to dark brown hair is often braided with bones, feathers, and metal ornaments. Battle scars are worn as badges of honor, telling the story of each warrior's deeds. They possess surprising dexterity despite their massive hands, capable of crafting intricate weapons and tools as easily as crushing a foe's skull.

The Great Tribes

The Eastern Orcs are organized into five mighty tribes controlling vast territories throughout the Wild Lands: Thrak'zar (the eldest tribe in the western reaches), Urg'thrak (the proud central tribe known for exceptional courage), Skul'mak (eastern guardians bordering the most active Grimlok spawning grounds), Durg'rok (the northeastern semi-agricultural tribe), and Mog'dun (the southeastern tribe that raids southern neighbors for resources to trade).

Martial Culture and Warfare

Eastern Orcs view warfare as the ultimate expression of their values—a chance to prove strength, display courage, and gain honor through victory over worthy foes. They follow strict codes of honorable warfare: no attacks on non-combatants unless they take up arms, respect for surrendering enemies who fight bravely, single combat to settle disputes, and protection of clan shamans and healers. Their weaponry includes massive tribal axes passed down through family lines, war hammers, composite bows, spears and javelins, and curved blades ideal for mounted combat.

The Eternal Watch

The Eastern Orcs share their Wild Lands territories with two of Aethoria's most dangerous threats: feral goblins and Grimloks. This coexistence has shaped orc society into a perpetual military culture. Feral goblins infest the Wild Lands in countless thousands, existing in a state of constant warfare with the orc tribes—irredeemably savage creatures that attack anything that moves. Far more dangerous are the Grimloks, semi-sapient beasts that represent pure malevolence given flesh, possibly the corrupted offspring of Shadowmaw. Specialized hunting parties constantly patrol the Wild Lands, eliminating any bands before they can grow to threatening size.