ST: 11 (+10)
DX: 11 (+10)
IQ: 8 (-20)
HT: 12 (+20)
Racial Advantages: Alertness +2 ( 10 Pts ), Nictating Membraine +2 (20 Pts.
Adaptability: (0 Pts)
Racial Disadvantages: Unattractive (-5 Pts), Intolerance (-10 Pts, Everyone), Reputation: Bad -3 (-15)
Racial Skills: Brawling at DX (1 Pt), Survival IQ -2 (2 Pts), Weapon Skill of MA at DX (2 Pts.), Animal Handling IQ (4 pts), Riding at DX (2 Pts).
PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION:
The Black Hand orc is a large, broad shouldered creature with a light sandy skin tone, or a light greenish tint. At adulthood, which is considered eight years old, they are tattooed with the tribal custom of a large black hand somewhere on their body.
SPECIAL: Black Hand Orcs suffer no penalty in a sand storm or windstorm on their vision or combat attacks, as their Nictating Membrane protects their eyes.
Black Hand orcs are able to sustain themselves for long periods of time with little water - much like a camel.
Tribal Description:
The Black Hand was once the most prolific of the orcish tribes, massing a huge assault against the elven nation. (What is now known as Aralon to humans.) This assault was so successful, it united the elven and dwarven peoples - if only for a time - against the Black Hand. The Black Hand were driven back to their desert, where they discovered the fledgling Libertine City States. (What would become The City.)
Once driven back, they waged a bloody war against the Libertine City States, and were eventually defeated. The tribe has since existed in broken bands and small groups who roam the deserts.
TRIBAL CUSTOM:
The Black Hand is named for its most powerful leader - Blackhand - an orc who was born with black palms. Blackhand is a legendary hero in their fables and myths, and since his birth, the Black Hand have tattooed themselves in his honor. They await the day that Blackhand returns; his birth will be marked as it was the first time, and their legends say he will lead them to a great victory and new life.
TATTOO CEREMONY:
The tattooing ceremony is one of great import to a young orcish Brave. Those who have proven themselves the most useful, cruel, and efficient are granted the honor of wearing the "Blackhand" on their face. Those of lesser ability are allowed to wear it on their arms, legs, or chest. Those of exceptional quality wear both the hand on their face, and have their palms stained black.
ENVIRONMENT: The Black Hand orcs are native to the Sea of Sands region.