Physiology
Orcs are probably the species with the closest genetic similarities with Humans.
Much of the difference comes in physical size, with orcs being taller and broader than humans on average, also lending to an increased natural strength and toughness. It is thought this enhanced size factors into orcs having a slightly shorter average lifespan than humans.
Orcs also have somewhat different skin tones than most humans, often darker shades of brown or black or shades of green. Orcs also possess different teeth the humans, with most possessing tusks of variable size, thought to have developed as they first evolved with a more meat-based diet.
Despite advancements in healthcare and cybernetic modding, Orcs have only achieved average life spans of 77 stellar years. reaching adulthood at the age of 18.
Early Sapient Life
Orcs upon Padia originated upon the continent of Atas, forming persistent tribal communities in the south-east of the continent, in harsh drylands. As humans migrated into Atas, many orcs migrated and joined their societies, but their traditional tribes persisted deep into Padian history.
Significant Historical Events
Given they share the same homeworld, much of orcish history is weaved into that of humanity and the other Padian races. Referencing the spotlights of other Padian races may help build a clearer picture of how these races developed and grew together.
Destruction of Og-Trolde, GY 5077 / 1535 PPT – After the eruption of the Desolate Isle, disasters spread across Atas, destroying many civilisations and seeing significant change to the geography of the continent. For the orcs, this included a powerful earthquake striking their ancestral homeland, followed by a series of tsunamis that would drag a shelf of it into the sea. This was significant for orc society as two rival tribes existed at the time. The first was Og-Trolde, who believed in raiding both nature and neighbouring civilisations with impunity. The second was Og-Bohl, who believed in living be more modest means and practicing controlled hunting and farming, while working with civilisations around them. Og-Trolde was lost to natural disasters after the eruption of the Desolate Isle, which saw a rapid shift in power and influence for Og-Bohl ideas.
Becoming a Nertian Empire Vassal, GY 5665-5671 / 2123-2129 PPT – During the convergence the homelands of the orcs were ravaged by the Chthonic Lord Tirion, a unique necromancer that poured his negative emotions into a dark well, producing horrifying monsters. Tirion was expelled from their lands thanks to help from the Neritan army. After this time, Nerita position outposts and expeditionary bases in the region and, some years after the Convergence, Og-Bohl formally agreed to a contract of vassalage after becoming dependant on the new Neritan Empire.
Founding of the nation of Ucrela, GY 5707 / 2165 PPT – When the continent of Cadronia was discovered, many people around the world migrated to the new lands in search of new fortunes. Orcs were one of the largest migratory groups, with many disgruntled by their change of rulership and overlordship of Nerita. Many of these orcs carved out a new kingdom in the north of Cadronia, which they named Ucrela. The Kingdom of Ucrela had a blend of more traditional tribal life alongside the development of more modern cities. Over the centuries, the kingdom would reform into a democratic nation, even fighting in the War for the World as a part of the Collectivist faction. After the war it became a governed province overseen by the IPC, as it is to this day.
The Great Coalition War, GY 6389-6432 / 2847-2890 PPT – Orcs would have a transformative period during the Great Coalition War. Where their peoples had often been overlooked upon Padia, in the galaxy they found niches as skilful mechanics, labourers and as powerful mercenaries. Orcs became a vital workforce for the coalition and after the war, many would migrate once more, this time across stars. Orcs would never found their own stellar empire, but they would populate the stars, with orcs found across all parts of the galaxy.
Shared Values/Beliefs
Orcs are a highly adaptive and migratory people, meaning they have only loosely shared values.
Many orcs are proud people, both of their traditional past and of their working roles within the galaxy. Some take this even further, practicing some of their older warrior traditions, such as engaging in honourable combat in fighting pits and arenas around the galaxy.
Many orcs have developed a rivalry with humanity, likely due to how tied their peoples have been, and how populous both races are. These orcs will be quick to point out the failings of humanity, while noting the quiet successes of their own people.
Significant Figures
Chief Engineer Rhe-Shal – One of the most heralded orcish figures, Rhe-Shal has risen to become the chief engineer of the republic’s navy. She is a hardworking and intelligent figure, though is perceived to have more dedication to her work than any one cause. It is whispered that were another empire to come along with better resources and facilities to offer her, she would happily take the opportunity.
Senator Jud-Dahl – A senator of the IPC, Senator Jud-Dahl is a divisive figure. Many praise him for his hard stance against the hegemony of the Yldar, whilst others criticise him for a pattern of xenophobia against non-Padian races.
Significant Enclaves
Troll Country, Caesium (System: Echos) – A sarcastically named region upon the ecumanopolis world of Caesium, the republic capital. Troll Country is an industrial part of the world with a dense population of orcs. The region is semi-autonomous, led by a conglomerate of owners of the various factories and dockyards present in the region.
Comments