Overview
Forest Orcs are clans that left heavily fortified settlements behind and adapted to Aldoria’s deep forests, marshlands and wooded hills. They rely more on tracking, hunting and mobility than heavy armour and large fortifications. Their knowledge of the wilderness often rivals that of Wood Elves and Fawns.
Appearance
Forest Orcs commonly have green, moss-green, olive or brown-green skin. Their builds vary from lean and athletic to broad and powerful. Hair is often dark, braided or tied back for practical reasons. Clothing uses leather, hides, cloth and natural materials, with feathers, bones, leaves and painted markings commonly used for decoration.
Personality
Forest Orcs tend to be observant, patient and territorial. They are often quieter than their War Orc relatives and prefer avoiding unnecessary conflict. However, they can become extremely aggressive when hunting grounds, sacred sites or family settlements are threatened.
How They Live
Hunting, trapping, gathering, fishing and animal keeping are central to daily life. Forest Orc clans may move seasonally between camps depending on weather, game and resources. Children are taught to identify tracks, dangerous plants and animal calls at a young age.
Culture & Traditions
Respect for successful hunts and responsible use of resources is strongly valued. Hunters are expected to avoid unnecessary waste and may keep teeth, claws or carved tokens from significant animals. Storytelling around communal fires is an important way of preserving clan history.
Settlements
Forest Orc settlements are generally smaller and less fortified than War Orc strongholds. Hidden camps, timber huts, elevated watch platforms and settlements built against rocky woodland terrain are common. Many are deliberately difficult to locate from major roads.
Common Roles / Professions (Optional)
Beast Master, Breeder, Farmer, Alchemist and Weaponsmith are common. Hunters, scouts, trappers and guides are especially respected.
Relationships With Other Races
Forest Orcs often interact with Wood Elves, Fawns and Wild Fae, sometimes peacefully and sometimes through territorial rivalry. Goblins are common trading partners. They may view large Human or Dwarven expansion into woodland territory with suspicion.