An unusual upbringing

Rhandrem was cared for by the entire tribe. When he got to old to be nurtured by the women, they smuggled food into the mine for him to eat. They had the wisest members explain the world outside to him and teach him to read and write. They had the most experienced warriors train him in not just the art of fighting, but the art of warfare. Most importantly, he was allowed to spend time with orc children his age.

His growth was unusual, even for an orc, so after only five years he towered over most, where orcs usually reached adulthood around eight years of age. He soaked up all the lessons from his elders and started beating his fighting instructors on a regular basis.

Despite all that, every evening they left for the surface. Every night he was alone. He hadn't seen the sun a single time in his life. Most importantly, he could only very vaguely remember the face of his mother. His hatred for the elves festered in these dark, isolated nights.