Orcs

When the Orcs learned of what happened to the surface, they slowly explored outwards from the Underdark to discover that the world had changed dramatically. Traditionally a war-mongering race, they quickly sent out war tribes to conquer the surface, only to learn how little was left. Many orcs decided to return to the Underdark, discouraged and hungry.

Those that remained on the surface found themselves adopting the Old Ways among the Orcs, as they had to rely on a code of honour to survive in this new world. Orcs respect a hierarchy among themselves, based on strength and ferocity in battle to decide leadership, but no longer slaughter each other to resolve disputes.

Lying to another Orc has become punishable by death, and trials are settled in front of the tribe, swiftly ending in public stonings, or immediate slaughter. From the outside, it must appear chaotic and run as mob rule, but all Orcs are aware of the laws of their tribe and the consequences of breaking them. The process is always respected, even by the guilty, who will submit to their execution regardless of whether they agree with the decision or not, all in hopes of an honourable death.