Orch

The pig-faced orches (rhymes with torches) are superstitious creatures that live deep in the swamps and wetlands of the Mucklands. Most often encountered in roving bands, orches are known for their ferocity and relentlessness in battle, as well as their hunting skills. They respect physical strength above all other attributes, so much so that their societal structure is based on serving and following the largest orches in a village. Referred to simply as Big Orches, these burly orches are often several times larger than the average orch who stands about three to four feet tall.

Names: Sklunch, Skeeb, Roik, Gorch

abilities

Trappers

Orches set net traps and snares in their territory. Twice every Combat, a random target and anyone Close to them become in a net or by snares ENTANGLED SLOWED (9+ Nimbleness Check to resist).

Orch Phalanx

Three or more orches may combine their Actions to make a single Attack (+1 Dread for each additional orch above 3). Each orch also gains 2 Block for the round.

Big Orch (C)

Gain the Large keyword and inflict 1d12 Dread.

vulnerabilities

Orches suffer double Dread from magic.

social

Orches love horrible smells, disgustingly spoiled foods, and living in squalor. They tend to be gruff and tough because that's what's valued in their culture; it's looked down upon to show mercy, especially without significant gains. When it comes to magic, witchcraft, and dwimmercraft of any shape or form, orches are highly superstitious and careful. Their reactions vary from fear, flight, hostility, or even pledging servitude to anyone that can conjure such power.

combat

Orches coordinate in small units, mostly armed with polearms or weapons with reach. They also carry bows and spring traps that impede mobility, or lead their enemies into difficult terrain. They are fairly intelligent fighters, and use their environments to full effect in order to gain advantageous positions. Some orches keep attack pets like gators, owligators, and quag bleakers.

defeat

Orches usually flee in terror to regroup for another day. But sometimes they may even pledge themselves to the victors of a fight or contest. Orches value size and strength, and often offer the honorary title of Big Orch to anyone that bests them in physical conflict.

victory

Orches take captives and bring them back to their filthy sty. At first, they force captives to work to keep the sty operating. However, if captives survive long enough and prove their strength, orches adopt them as new members of their society, treating them as equals.