Orc Government

The Ranking System of Burz'kal

The Warchief

The Warchief is the highest rank among the Orcs and holds absolute authority over all clans within the Orcish society. Chosen for their unparalleled strength, wisdom, and combat prowess, the Warchief is more than just a leader; they are the embodiment of Gruumsh's will on earth. This position is not inherited or taken lightly—it is earned through extraordinary feats in battle, strategic brilliance, and an unbreakable bond with Gruumsh. The Warchief is the one who decides when and where war is to happen, leading the Orcs into battle with the ferocity and skill that only the strongest among them can wield. Their command is absolute, and their decisions are final, shaping the fate of the Orcish people and the clans under their rule. In addition to being the ultimate military leader, the Warchief serves as the supreme arbiter in all matters of clan disputes and governance. When conflicts arise between clans, whether over territory, resources, or honor, it is the Warchief who renders judgment. Their word is law, and there is no higher authority to whom an orc can appeal. The Warchief's role extends beyond the internal affairs of the Orcs; they also act as the chief diplomat and strategist when dealing with external forces. In interactions with the Shadowclan, humanity, elves, and dwarves, the Warchief's decisions are guided by the principles of strength and the teachings of Gruumsh. They must navigate the delicate balance between showing mercy to those who honor Gruumsh and demonstrating the full might of Orcish power to those who pose a threat. The Warchief is seen as the ultimate protector of the Orcs, responsible for safeguarding the clans from external dangers and ensuring that the Orcs remain united and strong. They are expected to lead by example, displaying unmatched bravery and unyielding resolve in the face of adversity. To the Orcs, the Warchief is not just a ruler but a living symbol of their ideals—honor, strength, and the relentless pursuit of dominance. Their rule is a constant reminder that in Orcish society, the strongest must lead, for it is through the Warchief that Gruumsh's divine will is enacted. The Warchief’s authority is so absolute that to question their decisions is considered a challenge to Gruumsh himself. For this reason, the Warchief's law is final, a decree that shapes the destiny of every orc within the clans

The Warshaman

The Warshaman is the highest religious authority within Burz’kal and holds a position of profound spiritual and cultural significance among the Orcs. As the primary conduit between Gruumsh and his people, the Warshaman serves as the voice of the divine, interpreting the will and teachings of the All-Goth. In the eyes of the Orcs, the Warshaman is the watchful eye of Gruumsh, tasked with guiding the spiritual path of the clan and ensuring that the Orcs remain true to the laws and values bestowed upon them by their god. Unlike the Warchief, whose role is centered on the physical and strategic leadership of the Orcs, the Warshaman governs the spiritual and mystical aspects of Orcish life, maintaining the sacred traditions that define their identity. The Warshaman is the trusted advisor to the Warchief, offering counsel in times of war, peace, and internal strife. While the Warchief holds the final say in all matters, the Warshaman's guidance is deeply respected, as it is believed to come directly from Gruumsh himself. Their role is not to command the Orcs in battle, but to guide the Warchief and the clan through spiritual insight, ensuring that the decisions made align with Gruumsh’s divine plan. This advice can range from interpreting omens and visions to conducting divinations that reveal the best course of action in critical moments. The Warshaman is often called upon to perform sacred rites before a battle, invoking Gruumsh's favor to bless the Orcish warriors and to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies. Their presence serves as a constant reminder that the Orcs do not fight alone but with the power of Gruumsh coursing through them. In addition to their advisory role, the Warshaman oversees all religious rituals and ceremonies dedicated to Gruumsh. They lead the clan in worship, conducting offerings, sacrifices, and rites that honor the All-Goth. The Warshaman is responsible for passing on Gruumsh's teachings and sacred knowledge to those deemed worthy, including the Lazgul—the shamans who serve under their command. This transmission of spiritual wisdom is not merely an act of instruction; it is a sacred rite in itself, ensuring that the Orcs of Burz’kal remain connected to their divine heritage. The Warshaman is also the guardian of the clan's spiritual purity, keeping a vigilant eye out for signs of corruption or taint, particularly from the influence of the Shadowclan. They have the authority to call out and cleanse any Orc who strays from the path of Gruumsh, using their powers to protect the clan from spiritual decay. In every aspect, the Warshaman embodies the mystical and divine facets of Orcish life, standing as the bridge between the mortal world and the fiery will of Gruumsh.

Thupar

The Thupar are the elite guard of the Clan and stand as some of the most formidable warriors within Burz'kal. Tasked with the dual responsibility of commanding both the Bloodsworn—the main force of the clan—and the Lazgul—the shamans who manifest the will of Gruumsh—the Thupar are the right hand of the Warchief and Warshaman. There are only two Thupar at any given time, a testament to the rarity and prestige of this position. Answering directly to the Warchief and Warshaman, the Thupar hold a place of great power and influence, acting as both military leaders and enforcers of the clan's laws. They are often regarded as the strongest and most skilled orcs in the tribe, second only to the Warchief. Their presence on the battlefield is a symbol of Gruumsh's might, and their command is executed with unwavering authority. Achieving the rank of Thupar is the pinnacle of ambition for many Orcs, but it is a position fraught with danger and constant challenge. The competition to become a Thupar is fierce, as this rank is often seen as the greatest honor and the closest an orc can come to embodying the will of Gruumsh without being the Warchief. To be selected as a Thupar, an orc must demonstrate unparalleled strength, tactical brilliance, and an unwavering dedication to the clan. The selection process often involves grueling trials of combat, endurance, and leadership, where only the most exceptional warriors, whether they come from the ranks of the Lazgul, Dush-Hai, or Bloodsworn, can hope to prevail. However, the position of Thupar is not secure once attained. It is a role that demands constant vigilance and peak performance, as the Thupar must prove their worth every day, not only to their leaders but also to their underlings and rivals. In the unforgiving hierarchy of Orcish society, a Thupar who shows signs of weakness may quickly find themselves challenged and replaced by a more cunning or powerful orc. The life of a Thupar is a relentless cycle of command, training, and combat. They lead the Bloodsworn into battle, employing strategic acumen to outmaneuver their enemies and ensure the dominance of the clan. In times of peace, they oversee the training of the younger orcs, honing the skills of the next generation of warriors and ensuring that the clan remains strong and prepared for any threat. When it comes to the Lazgul, the Thupar ensure that the spiritual power wielded by the shamans is directed in harmony with the clan's goals, serving as the bridge between the martial and mystical aspects of the Orcish way of life. This dual responsibility makes the role of the Thupar uniquely challenging, as they must balance the raw fury of the warrior with the wisdom to harness the spiritual power granted by Gruumsh. Their leadership is not just about strength but also about embodying the ideals of Gruumsh: unity, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of power. As such, the Thupar are both feared and revered within the clan, respected for their unmatched prowess and their unwavering dedication to the laws of Gruumsh.

Bloodsworn

The Bloodsworn form the main fighting force of the Clan, standing as the embodiment of the Orcs' martial prowess and unyielding devotion to Gruumsh. These warriors are battle-tested, having proven their strength, skill, and courage through countless trials. To become a Bloodsworn is a mark of honor within Orcish society, a testament to an orc's ability to survive and thrive in the crucible of combat. This rank is not easily attained; it requires an orc to demonstrate exceptional skill in warfare, a fearless spirit, and an unwavering loyalty to the clan. Only those who have shown their worth on the battlefield, who have stood against the fiercest enemies and emerged victorious, are deemed worthy of joining the ranks of the Bloodsworn. Upon being accepted into the Bloodsworn, an orc is granted a weapon forged from Bloodrock, a sacred metal believed to be imbued with the power of Gruumsh himself. Bloodrock is not merely a material but a symbol of the divine connection between the Orcs and their god. The process of forging a Bloodrock weapon is a sacred rite, overseen by the Makers and the Warshaman, who invoke Gruumsh's blessing upon the metal. These weapons, whether they be swords, axes, or hammers, are more than tools of war—they are extensions of the warrior's soul, a tangible manifestation of their bond with Gruumsh. To wield a Bloodrock weapon is to carry the fury and strength of Gruumsh into battle, and it is said that these weapons resonate with the orc's own spirit, growing stronger as their wielder's prowess in combat increases. Each Bloodsworn guards their weapon fiercely, for it is a sacred gift and a symbol of their status within the clan. Beyond their role as warriors, the Bloodsworn also serve as the primary instructors for young orcs who have yet to earn their place in the clan's hierarchy. They take on the responsibility of training these fledgling warriors, passing down the techniques and strategies that have been honed over generations. This mentorship is a critical part of Orcish society, ensuring that the clan remains strong and that each new generation of orcs is even more formidable than the last. The Bloodsworn teach not only the art of combat but also the values of honor, strength, and loyalty that are central to the Orcish way of life. They instill in their pupils the importance of unity and the sacred duty of upholding the laws of Gruumsh. Training under the Bloodsworn is a grueling and often brutal process, designed to weed out the weak and forge the strong into warriors worthy of the clan. To the young orcs, the Bloodsworn are not just teachers but exemplars of what it means to live and fight in the name of Gruumsh.

Lazgul

The Lazgul are the Orcs chosen to manifest the divine will of Gruumsh, serving as the spiritual warriors and shamans of the clan. Unlike the Dush-Hai, who may wield arcane energies, the Lazgul draw exclusively upon the sacred power granted by Gruumsh himself, embodying his strength and fury in a purely spiritual sense. Their abilities are not born of learned spells or magical study but are a direct result of their unwavering faith and the blessings of Gruumsh. These shamans play a crucial role in Orcish society, acting as the bridge between the physical world and the divine realm of Gruumsh. They are seen as vessels through which Gruumsh's power flows, channeling his essence to guide, protect, and empower the clan. The Lazgul serve under the Warshaman, much like the Bloodsworn serve the Warchief, and hold a revered place within the clan's hierarchy. They are the guardians of the Orcs' spiritual welfare, conducting sacred rituals, prayers, and offerings to ensure that the clan remains in Gruumsh's favor. In times of war, they invoke the blessings of Gruumsh upon the warriors, performing rites that call for his strength and protection. These rituals may involve blood offerings, chants, and symbolic acts that connect the Orcs to the elemental forces of earth and fire, as manifestations of Gruumsh's dominion. While they do not wield arcane spells, the Lazgul can channel divine energy to enhance their kin, fortifying their resilience or instilling them with the ferocity of the All-Goth. They may summon sacred flames or create protective wards, not through the manipulation of magical energies but through the raw, unfiltered power of their faith. In battle, they are often seen at the forefront, chanting and calling upon Gruumsh's wrath to inspire fear in their enemies and courage in their own ranks. Beyond their role in battle and ritual, the Lazgul are also the keepers of the clan's spiritual traditions and the ancient teachings of Gruumsh. They are responsible for preserving the oral histories, sacred laws, and rituals passed down through generations. As spiritual leaders, they guide the Orcs in living according to Gruumsh's laws, ensuring that every action, from the hunt to warfare, is carried out in a manner that honors their god. The path to becoming a Lazgul is a journey of devotion and spiritual awakening. Lazgul Initiates undergo rigorous training, not in arcane arts, but in the deep spiritual practices of the clan. They learn to listen for Gruumsh's voice in the roar of the volcano, the tremor of the earth, and the whispers of the wind. They are taught to perform sacred rites, to interpret omens, and to channel the divine essence that flows from Gruumsh's will. Those who prove themselves worthy are recognized as full Lazgul, becoming spiritual warriors who serve as the clan's connection to the divine. They do not wield spells or arcane forces; instead, they command the respect of the clan through their unwavering faith, their ability to harness Gruumsh's favor, and their dedication to guiding the Orcs on the path of strength and honor.

Dush Hai

The Dush-Hai are the Orcs who possess the rare and formidable ability to wield arcane magic, setting them apart as a unique and valuable asset within the Orcish clans. Unlike the Lazgul, who draw their power from the divine will of Gruumsh, the Dush-Hai tap into the raw and often chaotic energies of the arcane. These Orcs are seen as conduits to the various elements—fire, earth, air, and water—and through their mastery, they can manipulate these forces to serve the needs of the clan. While arcane magic is not traditionally associated with Gruumsh's teachings, the Dush-Hai are considered an exception. They are viewed not as rivals to the Lazgul but as a different kind of warrior, one who wields the unpredictable power of the elements to enact Gruumsh's will in ways that complement the spiritual guidance of the shamans. The Dush-Hai are often left to their own devices, as their connection to the arcane is both a gift and a burden that requires constant study and discipline. They spend much of their time honing their abilities, delving into ancient tomes, or communing with the elemental forces that they command. Unlike the more structured training of the Bloodsworn or the spiritual path of the Lazgul, the journey of a Dush-Hai is a solitary one, marked by exploration, experimentation, and a deep understanding of the natural and magical world. Their abilities can vary widely, from summoning firestorms to manipulating the winds, creating barriers of stone, or even controlling rain and storms. This versatility makes the Dush-Hai invaluable to the clan, especially in times of war, where their powers can turn the tide of battle in unexpected and devastating ways. The Warshaman and Warchief often call upon the Dush-Hai in times when their unique skills are needed, whether to solve magical dilemmas, enhance the clan's defenses, or unleash devastating elemental forces upon their enemies. While they do not hold a formal command structure like the Thupar or the Bloodsworn, the Dush-Hai are respected for their arcane prowess and the knowledge they bring. They act as advisors in matters where the arcane intersects with the clan's interests, such as interpreting magical threats, crafting protective wards, or harnessing the elements to shape the clan's environment to their advantage. In this capacity, the Dush-Hai are seen as the clan's arcane scholars and strategists, offering their "mind power" to complement the physical might of their kin. However, their power is not without its risks; the arcane can be unpredictable and dangerous, and the Dush-Hai must constantly guard against the potential for it to spiral out of control. Despite this, they are seen as favored tools of Gruumsh, wielding magic not for personal gain but to fulfill the greater purpose of the clan. Their existence within Orcish society is a testament to the idea that strength comes in many forms, and that even the chaotic energies of the arcane can be mastered and directed to serve the will of Gruumsh.

Maker

Behind Orcish society stand the Makers, the artisans and craftsmen who are the true backbone of the clan. While the Bloodsworn may be the fist that strikes down their enemies, it is the Makers who forge the weapons, build the defenses, and create the tools that empower the Orcs to fulfill their destiny. They are the silent force that sustains the clan, turning raw materials into the instruments of war, survival, and daily life. The Makers are not mere laborers; they are revered for their skill and dedication, their craft seen as a manifestation of Gruumsh's will. In Orcish culture, creation is viewed as an act of strength, and the ability to shape metal, wood, and leather into forms that serve the clan is considered a sacred duty. The Makers’ work is as much a part of the clan's lifeblood as the warriors who wield their creations. Since the earliest encounters with other races after they found their freedom, the Makers have adapted and evolved their craft, learning new techniques and incorporating them into their traditional methods. They have mastered the bending of metal and wood, the sewing and tanning of leather, and the art of constructing durable fortifications that can withstand the harshest of assaults. Their armories are filled with the deadliest weapons around, each forged with an eye for both function and the orcish philosophy of strength. The weapons they create—swords, axes, hammers, and the sacred Bloodrock armaments—are not just tools of war but symbols of the clan's power and resilience. Armor crafted by the Makers is designed to enhance the natural strength and ferocity of the Orcs, offering protection without hindering the warrior’s movements. Beyond weaponry, they construct the homes, fortresses, and temples that make up the Orcish settlements, shaping the very world around them to reflect the might and endurance of their people. The Makers are organized under the leadership of the Headmaker, a master craftsman who is chosen for their exceptional skill, experience, and strategic vision. The Headmaker works closely with the Thupar to ensure that the clan's needs are met, from outfitting the warriors for battle to providing the tools necessary for daily life and survival. This collaboration between the Makers and the Thupar is vital; the Thupar bring the knowledge of what is needed on the battlefield, and the Makers turn that knowledge into tangible reality. The Headmaker oversees the various aspects of the Makers’ work, including the gathering and refining of materials, the crafting processes, and the maintenance of the armory. The Makers’ forges are considered sacred spaces where the raw strength of the earth is transformed through fire and skill into instruments of the clan's will. To become a Maker is to dedicate oneself to a life of unending labor, but it is also to earn a place of honor within the clan. Each weapon, each piece of armor, and every structure they create is a testament to their mastery, carrying with it the spirit of Gruumsh's power.

Unbloodied (Pugs)

The Unbloodied, often referred to as Pugs, occupy the lowest rank within the Clan of Burz’kal. This status is not a mark of shame, but rather the beginning of an orc’s journey within the clan, a stage filled with potential and promise. The Unbloodied are those who have yet to prove themselves in the eyes of Gruumsh and the clan. They can be newly acquired tributes from the outlying clans—young warriors sent to Burz’kal to earn their place among the elite—or adolescent Orcs of Burz’kal lineage who have come of age. The journey of an Unbloodied is one of trial and hardship, for they must demonstrate their strength, loyalty, and resilience to rise through the ranks. It is a time for them to learn what it truly means to be an Orc of Burz’kal, to internalize the laws of Gruumsh, and to embrace the ferocity and discipline required to serve the clan. Life as an Unbloodied is grueling. They are often assigned the most menial and dangerous tasks within the clan—hunting in perilous territories, laboring in the forges, or serving on the front lines in skirmishes to prove their mettle. These tasks are not meant to demean them but to forge them, testing their strength, resolve, and willingness to sacrifice for the greater good of the clan. In battle, they fight with basic weapons, unadorned and unblessed, until they have shown they are worthy of the sacred armaments crafted by the Makers. Under the watchful eyes of the Bloodsworn and Thupar, the Unbloodied are taught the ways of combat, discipline, and the values that define Orcish society. They are instructed not just in the physical arts of warfare but also in the code of honor that Gruumsh demands of his followers. They must learn that individual glory is secondary to the strength of the clan, and that loyalty and courage are the highest virtues an Orc can possess. To ascend from the status of Unbloodied to a higher rank, an Orc must prove themselves through acts of valor and skill. This could be through victory in combat, an exceptional display of bravery, or a contribution that significantly benefits the clan. Rituals and trials often mark this ascent, where the Warshaman and the Thupar assess the worthiness of each Unbloodied. For the Unbloodied who succeed, the rewards are great: they are granted a place among the Bloodsworn, the Lazgul, or other esteemed ranks, and they receive their first weapon forged from Bloodrock, signifying their acceptance into the true fold of the clan. For those who fail, the path remains difficult, but they are not without hope. They continue to serve, striving to prove their worth in the eyes of Gruumsh and their peers. To be an Unbloodied is to stand at the threshold of greatness; it is a period of intense growth and challenge that shapes the character of every Orc who passes through it. The title of Unbloodied is temporary, a rite of passage that all must endure before they can truly call themselves warriors of Burz’kal.