The Alchemists, the Historykeepers, and the Scholars

Roleplay Preamble

[This section is not included on what would be, a flier advertising the clan.]

Yahzlak – a woman of many names, like Dame Viktoriya, Astaroth, and from her darker years, Al’adalm – sat hunched over a pile of documents, sweat beading along her brow. Of her late Father-in-law’s heritage, she heard the family she’d called her own for decades had split in two centuries ago. Yahzlak had found out the DeNurems were, of course, a House of humans, but also Dark Elves. She never revealed her true identity to her kin nor even her Father-in-law who managed to still cling to life despite his age, and she felt ashamed of her Mali blood, that she’d deceived her found-kin into the belief she was human like them. But …  if other elves existed within their legacy, perhaps it wasn’t too horrible a thing that she did, too. 

She went town to town within the borders of the Horde and their newly established frontiers, asking each Mali’ker she could find if they’d ever heard of such a thing as her old House. After nearly a year, the ‘thill began to lose hope. Returning to her home in the Iron Uzg, she settled down into her cot and began to drift asleep, then startled by a knock at the door. The woman groggily rose and opened it to find an old Ker, at least 500 years of age, at her door.

“I have many questionz, young Mali. But, I hear latz doez az well. Mi nayme is Valren DeNurem. ”

In Black and Gold Reborn   

Long ago, the noble human lineage of Mirtok DeNurem split in two, creating both House DeNurem and the mali’ker Clan DeNurem centuries ago, whose allies ranged from that of Clan Azog & Magroka Gorkil to their very own Teutonic Order and the Aegean Coalition. Clan Dezokh-Nur; a bastardized version of both lines’ surname, was founded with the few remnants of the House & Clan including the founder herself, her children, and very few sparse Mali’ker after the cities of Ker’nor and other variants in later continents fell.

Clan Dezokh-Nur specializes in diplomacy, storytelling, historykeeping, and the material arts such as alchemy. While the clan isn’t specifically a clan of honoraries, it has a concentration of them larger than any other. As a result, those of Dezokh-Nur are Proto, Dark, or High Elves by blood mainly, with few rare Orcish bloodlines. 

Synopsis of Clan Dezokh-Nur

Founder: Yahzlak’Dezokh-Nur, the Hellwalker [of Clan Dezokh-nur], Mirtok DeNurem [of House DeNurem], Lazarus DeNurem [of Clan DeNurem]

Clan Colors: Black, Gold, and Orange

Clan Symbol: A skull with a gaping jaw, a flaming eye

Clan Motto: Fire tempers iron, suffering tests the brave

Favorited Spirit(s): Theruz, Kotrestruu, Smawton

Appearance 

Those of the Clan Chieftess’ line; Yahzlak, are full-blooded or half High Elven typically with pale white irises and dark sclera. Their hair ranges from light brown to white-blonde, with some opting to completely shave their head or dye it darker reds or blacks upon finishing their Honorary trials. Those of the original Clan DeNurem, though few in number, have dark skin and black hair, with typically lighter-colored eyes like blue, or rarely, green. 

Art by FilibusterFrog!

Orcs of Clan Dezokh-Nur greatly range in appearance with no set ‘norm’, but often clothe themselves more than their kin of other Clans, with leather aprons, cotton shirts, and even coats on special occasions like when crafting or working diplomatic affairs. Alongside this, the Uruk-hai and Goblins of the clan typically are clean-shaven and sport a full head of hair. Unrelated to the appearance of these Orcs, they also tend to be much calmer; having a more relaxed and less easily triggered bloodrage, but not lacking it entirely. 

All three main races that belong to Dezokh-nur, despite typically being a bit weaker, have great fitness and blood circulation – finding comfort in the cold rather than the heat. They acclimate to such an environment well, but in contrast, dislike great warmth and find it incredibly uncomfortable to be beside for long. Fire is used as a display in their culture, rather as a show of hardiness rather than to keep warm.

Naming

Those born into the clan are typically given names of previous ancestors of both Dezokh-nur and the two DeNurem sects, with honoraries sometimes given both names in Blah and ones of their old kin. Naming traditions such as these are almost always for the elven or human honoraries of the clan.

Female

Yahzlan, Viktory, Reina/Reyna, Vatar, Vanya, Enlahz, Eis/Eiz, Embrea, Lael, Lazul, Ada, Dazha, Fyora, Elyza

Male

Lazareth, Luzifer, Viador, Idravon, Alren, Alarik, Tesawa, Norais, Oztromir, Jorgen, Drako, Devorak, Tychar

Embedding

The members of Dezokh-nur greatly enjoy cosmetic adjustments, be them regular & Redstone tattoos, make up, and even embedding things into their flesh.

Gemstone Embedding

Naturally, as Honoraries & Orcs of Dezokh-Nur are more materialistic and refined in tastes, they amass a greater wealth than most. As a way to flaunt such, like how an Olog might boast of its strength, clan-members embed gemstones into the flesh upon their forehead as a ‘third eye’, or upon other areas like one’s throat or the backs of their hands. 

Tusk Embedding

Tusks & Horns are a large part of Orcish culture; of course, non-orcs are incapable of growing both. After becoming Honoraries and passing their Clan trials, an Honorary may go on a hunt for either a Whitewash Orc, or a formidable Beast with similar tusks [such as a hippo] and bring their head as prize to the clan Chieftain. The Chieftain will then saw the tusks from its skull and apply it to their gums with pine resin. 

Redstone Embedding

Perhaps the reason why many Dezokh-Nur are seen as physically weaker than most other Uruk-hai, many cover themselves in Redstone ink; glowing tattoos that ebb with one’s heart, but weaken the body if entire limbs are covered with it. These have proved glorious displays when an Orc of the clan falls into a bloodrage, and both his eyes and his flesh sink into a ghastly crimson gleam. 

Summits 

Knowledge is of great importance to the clan, and usually during meetings, summits will follow afterward and the alchemists, craftsmen, and other artisans & scholars of Dezokh-nur will share their findings and retell great stories. In houses and settlements of the clan, the meeting hall or the ‘living room’ are typically substantially larger than other rooms.

Creative Outlets

Bookbinding

Keeping history in a nation where very few can read is difficult, and ensuring the records aren’t destroyed is even harder. Thus, the libraries of Dezokh-nur are a well guarded and sacred place that very few are allowed entry into, and some document thousands of years of history alone in a single shelf.

Ichor Ink & Paint

Intertwined with the common practice of Haruspexy within the clan, many enjoy making exotic paints and inks out of whatever they can get their hands on; including blood. Such is typically reserved for religious texts for spirits or for murals because of how difficult it is to preserve, but some Dezokh-nur tomes have been written entirely in the ink.

Incense Rolling & Candlemaking

For rituals and altars of the spirits they honor, the Dezokh-nur create herbal incense & candles to burn during these rituals. Peculiarly, some of alchemical origin have been known to disempower or rid ghosts of a certain area, leading to the superstition that a candle must be burnt at the start of every month to rid foul energies, especially during war.

Law of the Flaming Eye

 1. Assist those who have assisted you in the past. If they’ve saved your life, pay it back doubly. 

2. Honor is the greatest aspect of all. Never betray your brethren under any circumstance.

3. No mortal is greater than another, those of Dezokh-nur are wise enough not to assume the worst. 

4. No gods or deities are above the Spirits and Ancestors.

5. Be slow to anger, but quick to strike. Do not allow fools to get the better of you.

Punishments

The Walk of Flames

For minor offenses, such as disrespect, rocks from the volcanoes surrounding the Goi are heated and placed upon the floor for the offender to walk over. Should they not cry, yelp, or back away from the punishment, their offense is fully forgiven.

Branding

 Branding can be used for all offenses, but typically are given to minor-intermediate offenses like dishonorable klomps, minorly dishonoring the spirits, etc. Words, phrases, or symbols are carved into the flesh of the offender, or a hot iron is used, to permanently scar the area. Afterward, their offense is fully forgiven. 

Digit Removal

For great offenses, entire digits or even hands may be removed – something that greatly detriments an orc in a society where the handicapped may die for being unable to fight. This is reserved for dishonoring the spirits a great amount or fleeing combat, and whether or not the offense is forgiven afterward depends on the severity of what was done.

Skathach’s Embrace

For greater offenses, the offender will be tied by rope and bound to a log above a pyre. For an entire minute, the entire body of the offender will be set aflame and be given horrid burns. If they are still living, they’ll be forgiven of whatever crime committed and given a second chance after being renamed.

Skathach’s Sacrifice

For unforgivable acts such as attempting to kill another Uruk, burning the tomes the Dezokh-nur so value, or an equally bad offense, the offender will be carried atop ‘Skathach’s Peak’; the highest volcano of the land they dwell in, and sacrificed to the Fire Elemental spirit. Such a death is typically quick due to the heat of the lava, but they believe those killed at the Peak have their souls devoured by the Elemental, only to return, if they return, as an ember and nothing else.

Soul Scrapping

Soul scrapping is reserved for the worst of acts, whatever they may be that the clan deems so horrid that not even their soul deserves to be carried to the Spirits. While preparing for their death, they’ll ignite Sigismund’s Incense; the candle that rids a space of ghosts and stray souls, and typically maim them close to death. Before they may pass, typically they’ll be forced to ingest a potion such as Dragon’s Flamebreath and their mouth will be sutured shut, burning them from the inside-out. They believe this damages the spirit as they pass, and the candle ensures that it’s properly vanquished. 

In order to become apart of Dezokh-nur, the aspirant must complete a number of trials to prove their worth. Unlike other clans, however, absolutely none of them involve combat unless the participant accidentally comes upon it during a quest. Typically, only three are performed due to how long both take, but the Chieftain may assign more should it be deemed necessary.

AZH

Walk of the Spirits

As their first trial, after being given time to research a Spirit, the aspirant and another Dezokh-nur will participate in a spiritwalk to one of the clan’s favored spirits. The aspirant will have to find a way to impress the spirit by pacting, swearing allegiance, or performing a sacrifice in their honor.

DUB

Storyteller’s Inscribement

Not only may stories be kept upon the pages of books, but upon one’s skin, as well. The aspirant must give a written version of an important moment in their life, such as a battle, and tell it verbally as someone tattoos an image depicting it upon their skin via stick-and-poke. As long as they do not back out of the tattoo nor halt the story, they may pass this trial easily.

GAKH

Venture of the Scholar

The aspirant is given a short time to prepare for being cast off into temporary exile for a full year into a random portion of the continent, usually the Tundra hinterlands. While they must find a way to survive in the environment without dying, they must also find a phenomenon to research and publish a study of it once they return. If the clan deems it sufficient, the tome will be placed in their great library, and the Eye of Dezokh-nur will be tattooed upon their forehead or throat. If unable to find anything significant or they’re unable to come up with something that hasn’t been written about before, inventions and creations of new potions or other ‘things’ have been accepted.

The Lexicon

An incredibly old tome bound in Descendant’s flesh, told to hold thousands of years of history, knowledge, and practices within it; alongside the secrets of many of its members and a full catalog of who claims allegiance to the clan. Such a book is highly guarded and kept within the deepest depths of their library under lock and key – it’s said not to have seen the light of day since a hundred years ago and counting. 

Effigy of the Primordial

A staff crested by the Flaming Eye; the symbol of Dezokh-nur, said to hold a portion of the ashes  of the demonlord that captured the clan’s Chieftain in the Infernal War. Potions and odd, ancient keepsakes are tied to its wood, kept there for god-knows-how-long and used in rituals and sacraments to the spirits.

Joining

If you’d like to join, please comment on this post, or message me over discord [tree#6855] to arrange a time to roleplay!

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Related Links

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Iggit bears witness to a message...

A lone goblin crawls around the cramped confines of the cave, searching. His long, crooked nose, sniffed with urgency as he continues onward. Cave-scorpions, and other creepy-crawlies skitter about the cavern, avoiding the gobbo.

"Eeeeeaaaaaaaaaargh!" he cries, entering a part of the cave that had opened up into a larger, wider area. Mushrooms galore populated the cave floor. It was a treasure trove for the young goblin. He had been searching for years for this, a mad-cap shroom! Without fanfare he dove into his bounty, hastily consuming as much as his heart desired. Having his fill, he laid his back against the cave floor and began to drift into sleep.

"Arise, my child!" a voice boomed. The gobbo jumped up, and began to cower in fear. "You must find your brethren, and grow me my offerings!"

"Uuurgh, eeeaaagh?!" the goblin whimpered, standing up straight as if possessed. In front of him stood a ghoulish creature, a walking mushroom with a face and a body. He knew who she was: Luara, as his father and mother had once told him-- the Bad Moon herself. It was clear: he was to find the other scatted and lost.

"Yes! You have passed my first test, my child. Now go, bring the return of the Shrogo!" the voice commanded, bringing the goblin to his knees.

In reality, Iggit was on the cave floor, shaking and frothing at the mouth. Nevertheless, when he awoke from his two day long coma, he left the cave at night a new goblin. No longer would he scavenge Almaris for a lick of shroom. Now, Iggit had a purpose.

"The gobbos of Shrogo will-will return!"

OOC: Looking to revive Clan Shrogo. Msg me on discord (Khakis#1709) if interested. I'm also in Raguk and Krugmar discord.

From a far away island, a land of endless war between goblin and olog tribes, rose Clan Shrogo. There, they found themselves living within the crevices of mountains and earth, venturing out at night to wage war upon their neighbors. They were a clan of pure goblins, as any larger being would not fit in the tunnels that they thrive in. Their skin, a varying shade from green to grey, has grown pale, and some of Shrogo have gone blind, while the others have enhanced ability to see in the dark. Sun irritates and burns their skin, making the goblins of Shrogo nigh insane once in contact. They are forever destined to live underground, and be given freedom by the night, but to them it is an honor that no other being will have. For their lifestyle within the caves brings upon the fungi, of which holds a special place within the heart of each and every goblin of Shrogo. Within the fungi comes knowledge. But in truth, it is insanity, which drives them onwards on their conquest. As a normal goblin would be cowardly, they are pushed on by the hallucinogenic properties of the mushrooms they venerate. 

When Shnub’Nub brought peace to the warring island they lived on, and left soon thereafter, he had sired children who would praise his name as a hero, a pioneer, a conqueror of the goblins. Years after, they would follow him to the land of Atlas. But their achievements back home will be unfounded in this new world, where their fate lays unknown.

In Atlas, the children of Shnub found their place within Krugmar. Adjusting to their new life in the uzg, new generations of Shrogo were born into a world without fear of the outside. Slowly, those from Shroglund would die. The new Shrogo no longer suffered so intensely from the sun. Into Arcas, so too, did the Shrogo continue their integration into Krugmar. Forging an alliance and eventually a merge with the goblins of Ox, it seemed that the goblins of Shrogo had done well enough for themselves. But the siege of Krugmar had scattered the Shrogo across Arcas. Now, few remain.

Fungus

A sample of the many fungi that Clan Shrogo cultivates

One of the most important aspects of Shrogo life is the variety of fungus which they grow and eat. Fungi are always loved by Shrogo, but of course a goblin will have his preferences. There is no fungus that a Shrogo would not eat, even willing to eat one one that they have seen kill one of their brethren. It is commonly unknown what kind of mushroom the goblin is eating, the important shrooms being named, grown and kept track of by the Mushobs or regular shroom farmers.

Common side effect of eating various mushrooms include:

- Light twitching - Convulsions

- Bouts of madness - Insanity

- Death

- Poisoning

- Paranoia

- Weakness

- Temporary - Permanent blindness

- Nausea

- Projectile vomit

- Increased heart rate

- Hallucinations

- Drowsiness

- Psychosis

- Erratic emotions

Of course, there are many, many more side effects.

One mushroom stands above the rest in the heart of the Shrogo. While many are mistakenly carried along, due to prolonged exposure, the Mad-Cap is deliberately grown by the Mushob. A Shrogo believes that a Mad-Cap will give them some sort of super-strength, when in reality it drives them to temporary insanity and renders them incapable of processing pain or acting with regard for themselves.. All who consume them feel the need to move their body in any way possible, leaving them with erratic spasms. This loss of reason and sense makes them into drugged up machines of inexplicable anger. Some do not recover, staying forever insane or dying from exhaustion, although that outcome is seen as weeding out the weak. Despite how tiring the frenzy is, goblins of the Shrogo clan will always grow Mad-Caps wherever they go. A common sign of a Shrogo goblin settlement is large, overgrown colonies of Mad-Caps. 

Religion

A Mushob of Shrogo, adorned in various Bad Moon motifs

Back in their homeland, Clan Shrogo worshipped the moon and mushrooms as that is where they sought respite from the monotonousness of daily life. However, it was only until the goblin hero, Shnub’Nub, came and colonized their homeland that they learned the names of their sovereign spirits; Luara, Wolf of the Moon, and Betharuz, father of festivities. It is from Luara that the Shrogo shamans drew their organizations modern name, Cult of the Bad Moon.

Through imagery of a crudely drawn, yellow crescent with a crazed face do they represent their primary patron. This symbol is seen as a sign of luck and good fortune, and is painted onto the outside of their homes, outposts, and cave entrances to denote that it is a home of Clan Shrogo. It is also placed on the Mushobs clothing, and in the rare chance that goblin would own a piece of armor it would be adorned there as well. If space permits, they will build wooden “banners” in the image of The Bad Moon. 

The Mushobs, the revered mushroom growers and spiritual leaders of the clan, will encourage the lower ranked goblins of Shrogo with both drugs and fanaticism. While zealotry is not exactly the focus of the clan, it does have its part in Shrogo society. Often, Gobbgoths are thought to be chosen by The Bad Moon themselves, and are expected to be heralded by the Mushobs. Of course, there are exceptions within the relatively short life span of the Shrogo.

Anatomy

A sketch of a Shrogo Gnobba

An average goblin of the Shrogo clan is 4-5 feet tall, and 50-100 pounds as their bodies are adapted to living in the cramped spaces of their tunnels and caves. The diet of a Shrogo goblin varies from gobbo to gobbo, as the ranks of the Shrogo allow a goblin of higher standing to take first picks of what little meat and fresh vegetation they have. Alternatively they could choose to primarily only eat mushrooms, although that would quickly take a toll on their sanity and physical health. It is possible for a Mushob or Gobbgoth to be quite plump, depending on how they carry out their duties. Snotlings are commonly skinny and malnourished, used as fodder, whereas the Gnobbas and Hobgobbas fare significantly better. Still, those of Clan Shrogo are typically quite gaunt. As generations of Shrogo have been born and raised in the lands of Atlas, Arcas, and Almaris, along with interbreeding with other goblins, this is no longer the rule.

The skin of the Shrogo is considerably pale in comparison to their krug-born brethren, and is so sensitive to light that it causes incredible discomfort with prolonged exposure causing pain. Thus, the Shrogo disdain sunlight, wearing thick robes to protect them from the painful light of the sun. While it is believed by the Shrogo that this was caused by the curse of Aztran, it is in reality a side effect of the Mad Caps that they so commonly ingest.

The goblins of the Shrogo clan have also developed the ability to see better in the dark. This ability varies, and can not achieve total night vision, but it does stand above the rest of the descendants. For this reason their eyes are a vibrant yellow, almost like those of a cat. It is also the case that many Shrogo are actually colorblind due to generations living in the dark. A fair amount of Shrogo goblins are born completely blind, however this is the one exception to their ‘usefulness’ rule. Goblins who are born blind are considered to be blessed by Luana herself, allegedly granting them the ability to be closer to her in a ‘spirit vision’.

Ranks and Social Structure

Gobbgoth - Leader

Grand Mushob - Spiritual Head
Mushob - Mushroom Growers / Spiritual Leader
Herdgobba - Military Leader
Hobgobba - Veteran Warrior

Loons - Shock Troop
Gnobba - Grunt
Snotling - Fodder

Moonshunned - Exile / Enemy

Green = Upper Echelon

Blue = Middle Class

Purple = Lower Class

The traditions of Clan Shrogo have naturally changed and evolved over time. Those under the strict hierarchy of Shroglund are now long dead. Yet, remnants of it still remain.

The Shrogo goblin social structures is a 3 tier system. The lower class is reserved for Snotlings and Moonshunned. Snotlings is a "rank" given to the slaves of Shrogo, and the young snotlings who have yet to prove themselves to the spirit leaders. The second tier of the Shrogo social system is the working class, ranging from craftsmen, to shroom farmers, to warriors. The third social class would be considered the social elite of society, consisting of the Gobbgoth, the Mushobs, and Herdgobbas. 

The Snotlings role in Shrogo society is to do any and all dirty work. They can be bossed around by anyone in either social class above them. They would typically be the ones sent out to scavenge enmasse under the supervision of a Herdgobbas. Their shroom use and food rations would be monitored closely by the social elite to make sure they are not being too greedy and stealing from those who might need it more. The Moonshunned are those who have slighted the clan, making them an exile or an enemy of the Shrogo.

The middle class is the average Shrogo goblin, typically shroom farmers or tunnel miners, or possibly goblins who continue their snotling job of scavenging but now able to do so on their own. What sets them aside from snotlings on a social level is that they are allowed to consume shrooms as they see fit, yet are still obligated to listen to the Herdgobbas. However, the Gnobbas are more than expected to be able to hold a spear, as the threats back in their cavern homes were numerous. Loons are those that have won the right to ingest Madcaps before battle, sending them into a crazed battle frenzy.

The social elite class, consisting of the Gobbgoth, the Mushobs and the Herdgobbas, are the leading pillars of Clan Shrogo. Herdgobbas are, in effect, the military leaders of Clan Shrogo, whose most important job is to not lead them in battle but also prevent them from fleeing. They must be disciplined enough to herd the more cowardly lower class of goblins. It is, however, typical that Herdgobbas control other aspects of the clan, such as distribution of equipment and food, finances, scavenging, and diplomacy. Mushobs are the spiritual leaders of Clan Shrogo. They "commune" with the spirits via various hallucinogens, the most prominent being the Mad Cap (Schnibea) Mushroom. Despite the general nastiness of the Shrogo gobbos, all Shrogo respect and revere their Mushobs. The Grand Mushob is the leader of the Mushobs, an incredibly important figure of authority. The Gobbgoth is the leader of the clan, typically arisen from the ranks of the Herdgobbas or Mushobs.

Vocabulary

The vernacular of the Shrogo clan is a crude blend of common and Blah. The Shrogo goblins are able to pronounce words more clearly than most, if not all, Orcs due to their tusks being so small. However, they still use words that are common amongst those who speak Blah despite not pronouncing normal words the same way as an orc would. 

For example, in Common one might say, “Let’s go kill those kids!”. This would loosely translate to “Led’z guh flat dem kubbiez!” in blah. A Shrogo would pronounce this sentence more along the lines of “Let’s go flat them cubs!”. As you can see, a Shrogo goblin uses words from Blah, but pronounces ‘regular’ words correctly. It is also important to note that Shrogo goblins are not the smartest and as a result of this their syntax might not be the strongest. 
 

Common Shrogo Blah words and phrases:

Gobbgoth - Leader

Mushob - Spiritual Leader

Snotling - Undesirable or unproven member of society. Also used as an insult.

Gnobba - Member of society who has proven their ‘worth’

Lop Luara - Hail / Praise Luara

Moonshunned - An individual that has been exiled from the clan and oftentimes labelled an enemy.

Skrap - A duel of honor, akin to a klomp, with both combatants inebriated on Mad Cap shrooms.

Gobbo / Gobba - General word for goblin

Homes

One of the many caves that the Shrogo inhabited back in their homeland

Given that they live underground, their homes are little more than holes branching off from an erratically built, winding tunnel system. The homes are small, and rather spartan in nature, only having the bare essentials inside. The entrances to their homes could literally be cracks in the walls with naught but a small marking carved into the stone to note ownership, or they could be loosely boarded up with a small shoddy door. Most homes would have many small shelves carved into the stone walls in attempts to grow their own mushrooms.

Within large enough caverns, goblins of Shrogo will grow large mushrooms of a wide variety. This is often by mistake, as they can carry various spores and fungi on their body due to so much time spent around them. Those that have wide enough caps may have tents and lean-tos propped up against its stalk. Still, their interior follow the same principle of their humble stone homes.

Warfare

Even the cowardly goblins of Shrogo can be riled into a WAAAAGH, leaving their caves in pursuit of wealth, territory, and salvage. They brandish their viscous, crude spears, ready for battle.

Shrogo warfare is guerrilla in nature, their main tactics being hit and run missions during the night time. The Shrogos lack a strong leadership as a whole, essentially relying on drug visions for guidance, and slightly less cowardly goblins herding the rest. Should they find themselves in the middle of a clan war they would usually be used as skirmishers or fodder, or would be sent in after the Uruks had broken the enemy ranks to simply cause havoc with their erratic swings and behavior. 

They are best suited to fighting in closed spaces, where their larger enemies become cramped and have no space to flank. For this, they use spears and pikes, and if fortune allows, a shield. In conjunction with this, Shrogo goblins will use bows and slings in order to soften up the enemy, if space permits. Their ranged weaponry are seldom used as there is typically not enough space to fire volleys, leaving many rather inexperienced in that aspect. However, they are better suited to working as individuals when it comes to projectiles, firing and retreating.

Due to their lack of strength and mass, all of their weapons and armor are shoddily made, or simply not made by them. It is common for Shrogos to trade their shrooms for other services that can be provided by other orcish clans. They will also fashion helmets out of mushroom caps, although their effectiveness has not exactly been tested.

OOC:

Special thanks to Sykotic for originally writing this with me a few years ago and to dragonslayerelf for developing the clan long after I was gone.

I found that my original Clan Shogo post was deleted off the forum for some reason and so I'm reuploading with updated information. I will say though that this is not 100% true to how Shrogo developed, as much as I wished it could be. My intention was for it to naturally evolve without me (as I had written it while I was banned in Atlas) and I'm pleasantly surprised to see that it had changed so much. However, I'm unable to reflect all of this, so this is updated to the best of my ability.

If you're interested in playing a Shrogo, add me on discord Khakis#1709.

Tear of Kinul

Long has it been since the Ram has called upon Kinul, spirit of Disease, pestilence, and failure. Long has it been since the Rams have failed in the same magnitude as the present. It seems that in Krothuul’Ram’s absence, the clan has gone from a lit flame ready to burn the world, to a pile of ashes left to wash away in the wind. No longer will he let the flame of his clan dwindle out and fail. The mighty Ram shaman took up his mobile cauldron and placed it in a spot he felt was very spiritual. The Ram got himself high on spiritual cactus green which allowed an easier contact with the spirits before he began his ritual to Kinul. With much success in pleasing Kinul, he created a powerful, poisonous, disease ridden hex ‘Tear of Kinul’. One that would spread and taint many trees. Without letting time slip whatsoever he took his bottled hex to the jungle where he spilt it at the base of three trees. “FREYGOTH blah’d nub tu burn any elder treez wibout makin ah zacrifize in her honur. Zhi did nub blah nubtin about zpreading disease tu dah eldur trees. Lup’Kinul.”  the orc bellowed out of his smelly, gooey maw. His yellow teeth would form a devilish smile as his red eyes gazed to the dirt below to watch the hex seep its way into the soil. After a short moment the trees would begin to groan as they swayed left and right in the wind. Twigs began to snap and fall to the jungle floor. The bark of the three trees slowly began to peel as their leaves wilted away. The floor below started to turn into muck and mud. The smell of rotting plant matter filled the nose of all who travelled near. All three trees would wilt and rot from disease.

Kulûk az-za golm durbûrz  

ALL THAT KILLS STRENGTHENS

The Izig are a Clan blessed with a strong sense of pride and respect towards their history and ancestors.  Thus, they commit deeds of great hardship. This leaves them with marks from the battle of life itself. Bruises, calluses and injuries become rewards in the service of their purpose. An Izig knows their stories will linger on after they’ve passed in the Stargush'Stroh,  and so all of their actions are weighed towards leading their kin to the afterlife. An Izig believes that these efforts taken in life, despite all the suffering and difficulty, are the substance of what ascends their spirits.

For an Izig there are no material ties beyond ones that represent their Ancestrals, as their transient nature means that they are meaningless. Instead, they take scars and wounds as proof of their struggles and achievements. These marks clean the body and provide a tapestry in which stories and tribulations can be told. It is said that  They seek war and domination for glory and to honor their Ancestrals, not for land and gold, thus virtues like greed are frowned upon;  in the end all end up dying, and nothing is brought to the Stargush’Stroh, only the spirit.

SKÛTOG-STARGUSH

A lesser of Kor teaching the Ancestral arte

EMBALMING

In this rite the corpse of an honorable Izig has all its blood drained alongside organs and guts, gingerly tended to by a Haruspex. Many Ancestrals are evoked in prayer and dance to welcome the new fallen spirit to the Stargush’Stroh. The blood later is blessed by Dlimbok and shared to be drunk by the others of the clan in a ceremony where old tales and deeds of the dead orc are shared and discussed. This imbibing ensures that the strength and might of the orc is passed to their kin.

MÂDR-GRIZH

A dishonorable figure left forlorn

THE FREEING OF OLD BLOOD

If an Orc is to die of old age, commits a heinous crime or dishonor against the clan, they are taken to the tallest peaks. The Blood Eagle serves as a way to promote one last chance for an honorable death and the orc to travel to the Stargush’stroh. They must endure slowly dying in this terrible manner without demonstrating any sign of pain, any scream; instead they must be fierce and tolerate it throughout, unfaltering and fearless. This ritual is associated to Krathol and Jevex, tied to the belief an Izig must die in battle.

FIIN-BUGUD

An Izig marked with ceremonial scars.

 CLAN NAME
Izigs join the clan, but true members of Izig possess a Spiritual Name that identifies them as members who have endured great hardship. To bear this name, one must go through a trial of great endurance. This trial is one not given by the Wargoth, but one made by the orc’s path toward the Stargush’Stroh. As an Izig seeks great conquest and Ancestral might within the world, their minds and bodies are irrevocably changed. As tapestries for the Ancestors and the Spirits, they are baptized and renamed according to the trials they endure.

IN-ASHT

An Izig Honorary Performing Haruspexy

Izig praise bone for it is the last thing that remains from their ancestors. Blood is drained as it is the soul and spirit, and leaves the body first. The second to leave is the flesh, the scars and work that eventually rot away, lest they are preserved. This is why the body and especially the bone of an honorable orc must be preserved, or of an dishonorable orc burnt alive into a crisp of nothingness, to be forgotten.
 

'

An Izig smith restoring a weapon

Bound in blood and rubble, the histories of orc oft go untold, less it be carried by verbal word or laid into story by Haruspex. The tales of orcish people rarely leave their desert homelands.

The process of Ancestral smithing however has been - with the assimilation of Clan Izig, a more common sight amongst the uruk giving way to an influx of historical recollection. 

Ancestral smithing is used by smiths who seek to maintain their kin’s name, be it clan or bloodline.This is through the maintenance of things like hilts and pommels, guards and decor that once jotted a legendary zult, or orcish sword.

Using these restored pieces is believed to carry the blessing of the ancestors who wielded it before them, bringing a Krughai warrior strength in battle, a hunter’s focus in the forest, or guiding a chef’s hand in the kitchen. 

RESTORATION

An ancient Haruspex's mask.

The restoration of old weapons is essential in an Izig’s repertoire. Even those who are not smiths are still taught to respect and revere the tools they use, for they bear the mark of the urukim who birthed it. Their essence is passed on in the tools they create, and allows for an Izig, or Ancestralist to physically pass on their wisdom and strength to future generations. As such, totems, carvings and observational trinkets are made so that the Ancestral Spirits can watch over the home or crafting place.  They ward the place from spirits of negativity, mental instability, and the negative traits brought on by Krug’s Curse. 

Bloodlines of Izig often use this restoration to their founders, whether physically reendowing and utilizing these tools, or enshrining and consecrating them as powerful relics for centuries to come. 

To consecrate the relic,  the Haruspex or smith burns incense and ingests cactus green whilst partaking in ceremonial rites to go along with the forging process, blessing the molten metals with the names of glorious smiths, channeling his ancestors before fitting on a guard, ensuring the presence of said ancestors during the making of the item.

“Paler than death. Gaunter than bone. Hearts should be lifeless. To sit on a throne."

We, Clan Mog, take the symbol of two intertwining serpents. 

And in its purest form; it  represents the eternal entanglement of other beings.

We also take the quote: ‘Paler than death, gaunter than bone, hearts should be lifeless, to sit on a throne.’ 

This shows the nature of emotions. And how one must lose them to achieve true enlightenment.

⑄ History ⑄

“To progress into the future, one must sacrifice part of the past.”

⑄ Appearance ⑄
“Physicality iz ah glimpze at tuh zoul; zo glare wit ztudy. Az there iz much to learn from azhz looks.”

⑄ Body Modification ⑄

"Bonez protrudez, as miz ar revealed; mi ztake off mizskin, tu stop remainin konkealed."

⑄ Wardrobe ⑄

“Klothing iz nub more d'en eh mazk ta kova miz pride. Miz scars ar an honour. Not ah zecret to hide.”
 

⑄ Hierarchy ⑄

"Blud grukz nubin widout zpirit."
 

⑄ Trials ⑄

“Ah tru zerpent zliverz zlowly, but zukkeeds zwiftly.”
 

⑄ Spiritualism ⑄

“Zpiritz ar konztantly held above miz like deitiez, let miz peep how deities face chaos.”

⑄ Combat ⑄

 “Bloodluzt iz ah givt; nub ah kurze. Anywayz, miz av kactuz green tu kalm down.”
 

⑄ Games ⑄

“It'z all vun and gamez till lat hit lat head on tuh way down.”
 

⑄ Hunting ⑄

“Miz ar zimple uruk doing zimple uruk tings... yub yub!”

⑄ Laws ⑄

“Azh muzt abide by tuh rules, otherwise azh will nevuh ve ah khanke tu break dem again.”
 

OOC

    The Izig had questioned this before the exile with the Braduks in Arcas, and the answer had always remained the same. 

    They were orcs and they were his people.

    Skaatchnak’Izig crested the horizon, raising a banner he had let rest for a century. 

IZIG CLAN

GHASHN-GRISH
(Blood speaks)

It is said that an Izig is born with two weapons in their hands. Cursed to bear the weight of violent lives, an Izig strengthens themselves beneath the pressure. Hardship begets truth. Practicing haruspexy, the Izig clan communes with the Ancestral Spirits in the signs and omens of the mortal realms. They draw upon the scars they bear, and use them to plan for the future, and analyze their past. 

ANCESTRAL TOOLS OF COMMUNICATION

 In their worship veered towards the Ancestrals, many Izig partake in the construction of great totems, idols and statues inspired by their Ancestrals, attempting as accurately as they can to represent and replicate how they truly were, or any reminiscent aspect of them. They believe that bone connects the legacy of orcs within the Stargush to those on the earth, and with sacrificial blood they use to bathe these totems, the connection grows stronger.

SPIRITUALISM
                

In their insatiable lust for conquest, blood and glory, many Izig recklessly leave their minds forsaken and vulnerable, only focused at this very single purpose, their bloodlust on the edge. It’s in these moments that their heads are tampered by exploitive spirits, spirits of mental instability, awaiting an opportune time to latch onto someone.

To avoid these Spirits, among other dark and vile ones that veer their eyes towards them, it’s within their creed that the construction of freaky idols is of aid, with the intent of being terrifying and bizarre, made to scare away these spirits alongside also does that seek to invade their land and lairs.

In case an Izig is suspected to have fallen victim of an evil influence or spirit, the clan executes a ritual taken from the Maukta within the Thagurz’Grizh, donning masks and shedding their greed, bloodlust, and gluttony with dance and fire. 

APPEARANCE

    An Izig is easily identifiable by the garb they wear, and their potent roles within orcish society. Goblins serve haruspice; embalming, draining blood, performing acupuncture, their dexterity serves in etching the truth of pain within the flesh. Ologs serve as grave tenders and spiritual wards, protecting the clan by repulsing the negative spirits with their stupidity. Izigs are fond of metalworking, though often don feathers or more tribal garb. Many are scarred or possess wounds that never heal; a testament to their eternal pursuit of truth, and justice. 

WAY OF LIFE

Once an Izig is accepted into the clan, they seek the same desires of their progenitor, Agzal the Titan; to bring all of Krug’s children into a life of honor, and death alongside their Father. Some become haruspex or gravetenders, while others seek to prove their worth in grand displays of wealth or strength. They regard the immortal and elemental spirits with great suspicion and apprehension, almost solely focusing on Ancestralism and Haruspexy. An intensely ritualistic and superstitious folk, Izigs are often seen congregating, fervently working towards ensuring that the afterlife is a place for all orcs. 

APPLICATION
If you’re interested in joining this clan feel free to fill out the application or find Skaatchnak IRP. If you’re interested in haruspexy, or want to learn and provide feedback, feel free to message me on the forums or discord(dreamsicle#1521).

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1.  Introduction
2. Appearance

3. Culture

4. Traditions

5. Red Lines

Introduction

The Vallak Tribe is a unit of Fe-Uruks who follow Spirits in accord with the phases of the moon. Each phase is a different Spirit, and said Spirit allegedly becomes more powerful during that period of time. Vallaks are descended from Orcs and Dark Elves, and have strong features that belong to their specific bloodline. 

Appearance

Blood Vallaks tend to be Half-Breeds with Dark Elven and Orcish ancestry. They range between 5-8” in height and have sharp and muscular body types. Vallak’s hair color tends to favor their Dark Elven Ancestry, meaning most have White or Black hair, which is commonly dyed to indicate what the Valak’s profession is.

They have ashen skin tones, usually greys, blacks, or browns, with the occasional  albino. Vallak eyes favor their orcish Ancestors. Rare is it do they have a white to their eyes, it usually being the same color as their iris. Because of their mixed Ancestry the She-Orcs can look deformed and unpleasant to look at, with rough features that tend to be marred whilst in combat.

Culture

Valak Culture has a healthy mix of Orcish and Elven, with their own twists and unique properties. They speak Blah to show reverence to the Spirits and their Ancestors, though this can also be a symptom of the tusks that many grow as they reach adulthood. They follow the Spirits avidly, though have a polite distaste for beings that take on a more masculine presence, instead favoring Spirits with feminine or no gender presence.

The Clan is filled only with women and those not considered men. This practice was started to keep the women from marrying and joining other clans, and has stuck and become something of tradition over the years. Women of the clan are expected to follow a short but strict list of rules.

• Marriage to a man is forbidden 

• Breeding with Humans or Dwarves is forbidden

• Following of other Religion is forbidden

• Killing a Sister outside of Honorable Klomp is forbidden

• Thieving from a Sister is dishonorable and is forbidden

Traditions

The Aggid

When a Valaks comes of age she is to undergo the Vallak Trials. The Trials vary depending on which specific Bloodline they hail from, but the result is the same no matter what. If failed, they are to wait a year before reattempting the trials. If they pass however, they undergo the Aggid. 

The Aggid is when the Vallak lays down on their back or chest and receives a redstone tattoo specific to their Clan. This is a permanent sign of their loyalty, and ensures one can’t float from family to family. During the painful process they have to remain still and conscious. Falling Unconscious is a sign that they are still children, and have to complete their Aggid at a later date.

Births

Because of the curse of Infertility having a healthy child is very rare for the Vallaks. Most pregnancies end is misscarriage or in the death of the mother. When a child and mother come through the birth healthy and alive, there is great celebration to be had. The Vallaks spend the next two years praising all the spirits and hosting a cleaning of the babe and mother in the light of the moon. It is said that depending on when the child is born, they have the favor of one of the Spirits. Most dedicate their life to their birth Spirit.

Color

Color of dress and color in general is very important in the daily lives of the Vallaks. Each color tells of an omen and meaning, and while none are considered taboo it’s a statement to be made on certain occasions.

Color | Omen | Meaning

Red | Bloodshed | Victory, Battle, Life

Orange | Bountiful Harvest | Food, Wealth, Health

Yellow | Watcher’s Blessing | Energy, Spirituality, Power

Green | Sickness, Decline | Illness, End of a Cycle, Death

Blue | Fertility, Signs of Child | Fertility, Sky, Children

Purple | Spirit’s Watching | Magic, Nature, Connection

Pink | Love & Emotional Connection | Love, Bonds, Relationships

Grey | Great Disfavor | Depression, Sadness, Disgust 

White | Laura’s Blessing | Mourning, Moonlight

Black | Negative Intent | Night, Naivety, Melancholy 

Hair Styling 

Vallak’s have very strong opinions on hair and it’s uses. While dangerous to have lengthier hair in combat, the Vallak’s see it as a sense of pride. The longer the hair is the more combat has been seen and won. It is common to see the hair done in an updo or braided to keep out of the way. When a Vallak loses an honor klomp or battle, they cut off the majority of their hair. Sometimes keeping the length as a reminder of their failure. 

Mating and Bonding

Vallaks do not marry or become life mates with men, but are still expected to produce children. CA Vallak can be approached for mating, but will only do so that any female born would go on to join the Vallaks, while any males would join the father’s clan if he has one. 

While they cannot become life mates with men, they are allowed to do so with other women. The Clan leader must be informed of such a union, and this must be done after the Vallak has children or swears off having kubs. 

Red Lines

•  

  Spoiler

   

  • Vallaks are descendants of Uruks, but are somewhat weaker than them.

  • To reproduce, Vallaks need to roll a 80+ when conceiving due to their infertility.