#uzul

The snow is no longer falling. There are flakes in your eyelashes as you wipe your face of the sweat from working. You outside city limits with a crew, forming the guard towers you had come up with. They are tall, narrow towers that would house three guards at all times for enemies and most importantly, giants. They were painted to melt into the surrounding areas and also had been etched with magical runes to form a magical barrier as well.

“It really does.” One of the orcs replies, packing up the carpenters’ wagon. “We plan on starting the next one in a few days. Some of the local villagers said they were volunteers to help with watches.”

You grabbed your orange fur from your horse and wrapped it around yourself. “That’s wonderful. We can bring them into the training camps.”

“The recruits will be graduating soon.” The orc replied, turning once their ears picked up on some noise. “The towers closest to Noverak will be filled with them soon. Hey, I think Uzul is coming.”

You turn to look into the distance and see the gray orc appearing from the trees. “It must be time. I can’t believe we are wishing them well already. These months have passed so quickly.”

“Marriage life will do that to you.” The orc grins real big. “Happy house, happy spouse.”

You wave at him in the distance and see small orclings sliding off the back of the horse already and running through the snow. “Time does go by faster when you are happy.” Orclings came running hard and tripped over each other until they made it to your legs and head bumped your knees. “Hello, hello, hello. How is everyone today?”

These are orphans from the surrounding areas. After getting married and starting your plan to make the mountain area safe, you had discovered many of the surrounding villages lacking in necessary needs. You had even gone so far and scooped up orphaned children to bring back from Noverak and further their education. The three in front of you had warmed up to you quickly and became important to your day to day. They are half orclings, part human/part orcs. For various reasons, they had lost family or been abandoned out of shame. It melted your heart and here, the three with their big eyes looked up at you. “Uzul has been teaching us combative scenarios.” The girl, Yokgu, announced. She was the oldest and greenest of all three orclings. One of her eyes was as blue as possible while the other was brown.

“I can tell.” You looked at the smallest orcling, a boy named Drek, who had a black eye. His skin was a warm shade of ivory. His cheeks and nose were red as can be. His overbite of his tucks was the largest. “Did you let her beat on you?”

He shyly shook his head and turned to the middle girl and punched her right in the arm. “I missed with my wooden shield and hit her baton.” He huffed and snuffled into his cloak.

The orcling that got punched returned a meaner one and crossed her eyes, staring up at you with a stern face but excited eyes. “I took them both out. Ya can’t keep a good warrior down.” Her ears were pointed, her skin the color of the mountain. She must have belonged to the gray orcs at one time. She had light eyes to match but hair as dark as coal.

“We are out of training, you must be nice to each other, Ulesh.” You patted each of their heads and squatted down to be eye level. “Did you have lunch?”

They all began to bounce. “Turkey legs, turkey legs.”

“They have been fed, watered, and properly mentally stimulated.” Uzul finally reached the group with his warhorse and kept atop, towering over all of them. “They have been holy terrors this entire time.”

“We missed you.” Drek hugged you immediately. He had bonded to you the most and the deepest. You felt like he would have been a mama’s boy the moment he entered the world. You stroked his hair, feeling the beads you had put into his braids.

“It was five days, I promised I would be back.” You stood up, picking Drek up with you as you did. “We do need to get back. I want to speak with him.”

“Uzul says that Krex is a no-good man whore that is taking unnecessary demands with his departure.” Yokgo states very matter-of-factly before going back to the warhouse and raises a hand towards Uzul. Your husband reaches down and easily gets her back on the horse.

“We do not need to state everything we hear.” Uzul looks back down at Ulesh. “Who are you riding with?”

The girl looks between the two of you as you place Drek on your horse. “I want to be with the queen.”

“Then come here quickly.” You ushered her close and placed her there before joining.

“Are those your true feelings, dear?”

Uzul scoffed and turned his house. “I am simply interested in seeing how the village goes.”

Yokgo shook her head at the statement. The two with you just giggled. “Have they finished packing the wagons?”

“Everything is done. They are making the final preparations now. They may be waiting on us.” Uzul looked your way. “Have you seen Zahala?”

You shook your head. “He’s been busy out here. He came by two days ago but left after.”

Uzul nodded and picked up the pace, the two horses matching stride most of the way back until Noverak was in the distance. There was a crowd gathered in front with several wagons and horses in a neat, tidy line. Getting closer, you could hear the bittersweet conversations going on. Family members were getting their words in before the big move. Uzul made it first, hitting the ground and gently placing Yokgo safely as well. Your orclings slowly slid off the horse and went running, quickly immersing themselves within the crowd. “Wild little things.” You laughed as your feet touched the snow and looked to see the many faces that were leaving.

Lyrie emerged from the group and waved, coming to greet you quickly. “It is good to have you back.” You embraced each other quickly. “How are things?”

“Everyone has their documents and I double checked all the maps. How’s the towers coming?”

You patted her back. “Two more are done. It’s going well. Is everyone ready?”

“I think so. They are finishing the checks right now. I know Krex is wanting to speak with you.” The elf looked at her clip board and scribbled some things with her quil. “I can show you the way.”

“Please.” You motioned for her to go first. “How were the children?”

“They are precious. I spoke with Merzo and therapy seems to be going well. Time will tell. Nothing happened that stood out. Children are children.”

You moved down the line of wagons. “What about the three?”

“Normal. There are hopes for adoptions.” She looks back at you.

You nodded. “Uzul is fine with my decision.”

“It is a lot. Three at the same time, especially with unknown futures ahead.”

“My heart is open right now. It will be good practice to see what to expect from halflings as well. We still aren’t sure the specifics of mixing races and wouldn’t want anything harmful to happen to me or future children.”

Lyrie agreed. “Merzo has been deep diving into that education ever since the two of you became serious. Her team is doing extensive research when the children have the check-ups. So far, everything is coming back normal. We are looking for blood relatives as well.”

“Would they not want the kids back?” You asked.

The elf shook her head. “Before you came along, it was much more shameful if I am going to be honest. Personally, I think they are better off with the two of you wanting to open up your home to them than blood relatives that have no interest.”

“Keep me updated.” You looked to find Krex speaking with the same band of warriors he is usually with. “The man of the hour.”

The big green orc heard you and immediately grinned, moving in to embrace you. “There’s the Queen.”

“How are you?” You patted him and looked around at the progress. “Are you ready to take off?”

“I am. Zahala and his team have scouted to the borders and reported back favorably. They are apparently heading back this way to meet us in the dense parts of the snow. Will you miss me?”

You laughed and looked at him. “You must write separately from your quarterly reports. If you need assistance, help will come.”

“You will be too busy to miss me.” Krex grins. “I have heard news about the children. You have taken on many duties since the wedding.”

“It took a pair of human eyes to find the weak spots. You people needed me desperately.” You joked.

The orc laughed. “I have a serious question for you.”

“Oh?”

He leaned in, barely above a whisper. “Did I ever have you? Even for a second? A moment?”

You put a hand on his face and pushed him back. “I love you like a brother, Krex.”

He clicked his tongue and laughed loudly. “Not a brother!”

“You will find a happy woman sometime. Maybe on your new adventures, human land! All the human women you could ask for.” You patted his arm and moved past. “Are you ready to go?”

“I am sad to leave but I know it is because I have outgrown it. I need greener pastures, I need to grow within myself.” Krex moved with you and looked at the wagons. “I am grateful for this opportunity. It does mean a lot that you all thought of me for this.”

You smiled softly. “Do not forget how important that this goes well. It will not be easy but it can be great.”

“I will not embarrass you. I would never do that.” Krex reached and patted your head. “Goodbye, my queen. May we meet again.”

“Write often! Don’t trust everything you see and for the love of the gods, be careful.” You heard a horn blow and looked to see people starting to depart from their loved ones. “Be safe.” You moved back towards Lyrie and took her arm. “My heart is heavy to see them go.”

“This is how it will feel when Ekoh leaves.”

You sigh. “I don’t want to think about it.”

The elf leads you back to your husband and the orclings that were running circles around him. “Thank gods they are finally leaving.” Uzul looked to you.

You moved to embrace him. “It’s kind of sad.”

“I’m overjoyed.”

“That’s because he’s a jealous prick.” Merzo emerged from the ground and gave each of the orclings candy. “Did the boy say his goodbye?”

Lyrie nodded. “Krex did.”

“I’m sure he slobbered all over you.” The orcess winks and bumps your elbow.

“Oh, please!” You waved a hand at her and turned to stand in front of Uzul, his arms coming around to pull you back against him. Another horn sounded as it seemed everyone got in the wagons or on their horses and were ready to go. People started to throw flowers. “Krex says he made contact with Zahala. It’s been safe.”

“That is good news. The Gods will keep an eye on them.” Merzo waved to the people as the wagons started to take off. “This is a notch for orc history.”

“We’ve had so many lately.” Uzul commented.

“Good things. Good things.” You patted his hands and felt his fingers rub against your cheek. “Now we focus on Noverak again.”

“And the future.” Merzo reached down and held the hands of Drek and Ulesh. “The generations will be most important to our society.”

Yokgo came in front of you and leaned against your legs. Your fingers found her braids and stroked her hair. “Let’s head inside. It’s terribly cold and I’d like to be warm.” The group in front of the mountain started to disperse as the wagons grew smaller and smaller.

“Get the horses.” Uzul moved away and children chased after him, everyone started to move back through the town and towards the core of Noverak.

You lingered for a moment, breathing in the cold air as the snowflakes began to fall again. There was a whirl of emotions inside of you. So many things had changed and so much Time had passed but it was still kind of surreal to be here at this moment. You smiled at the thought and snuggled deeper in your furs.

“Are you coming?”

You looked back to see Uzul standing with the horse reins in one hand and Ulesh in another. Drek was leading your horse with Merzo and Yokgo walking together. You moved quickly, joining Uzul to take Ulesh’s other hand. “I’m here.” Your husband raised an eyebrow but you leaned over and smiled at him. “I love you.”

The corner of his mouth turned up, leaning in to close the distance and kiss you. “I love you too. Now can we go inside? I have been afraid that you were a popsicle all week.”

Lyrie is the only one in the room with you today. Uzul had left early in the morning and had kissed your forehead before leaving. You made your way to the dress that had been placed over a chair. You ran your fingers over the beads, the faint bickering of those two older women still tickling your ears. You smiled at the thought before pulling off your clothes and stepping into the light weight gown. Lyrie came with a tray of jewelry. “I picked some pieces out.”

“Thank you.” You moved to her as you slipped into the sleeves and adjusted them. “How’s the weather?”

“It’s snowing pretty profusely but Merzo says that’s a good sign from the Gods.”

“How far is it?” You asked as you picked up earrings and started to attach them.

Lyrie thought about it. “The sacred site is halfway through town and then to the right, up the mountain to a man-made clearing. I’ve never been up there so this is exciting. So, the guests and all the wedding party besides us few will have already traveled up so our path will be clear. I think it will be me, you, Zahala, and another guard that will all go up once you are ready.”

“What is the site called?”

“The Green Pasture. They say the mountains, including the one we are in, was once a great land before. The Gods used it as their playground and this specific area was where the animals were kept before the frost came. It was green at one time. You’ll see what I mean once we get to the site.” The elf explained, handing you necklaces.

“That’s amazing. Did you see Uzul?”

“I did not. I’m sure he’s doing last minute decorating.”

You added the jewelry and grabbed the circlet to place on top of your head. “How do I look?”

The elf dropped the tray on the table and clapped her hands together. “Like the most beautiful bride!” She moved away and grabbed the fur that Uzul gave you. “He did tell me a few days ago that you were supposed to wear this. It was his only demand.”

You laugh at his thinking but take it to wrap around yourself. You covered your head as well and snuggled in. “Am I ready now?”

“Perfectly.” Lyrie joined arms with you and started out of the mountain to the stables. “Do you need any flowers?”

You shook your head. “I’m fine. Ekoh is leading me instead.”

“I heard he argued with everyone until he got the right to. I think he should be a political head instead.”

You two were laughing when you joined Zahala and his extra guard in the stables. They had already saddled up the horses and the gates were open. “Everyone ready?” Lyrie asked, going to a horse to get on.

“Are you?” Zahala came and gave you a pat on the head.

“Yes. Stop asking me already.” You grinned real big as the orc had to help you up.

He held his hands up in defense before moving to his horse and instructing his guard. “Let’s go, girls.”

The ride was peaceful. The snow was coming down heavily. The roads had packed down pretty heavily from foot traffic. You followed it all to the way to the foot of a different mountain to find rows after rows of mostly orcs. There were a few other species mixed in. Everyone looked to be dressed in their best. The lines were moving quickly. The horses passed through the crowd. People started to throw flowers. It rained petals and flakes. In the distance, orc handiwork stood proud. The establishment was probably built by dwarves but decorated by orcs. The carving within told stories even from where you were sitting. The green poked through against the white. You made an audible noise once you realized it was grass. The area was lush with life. Flowers bloomed that should not be able to. The greenery was very much alive. The formations were large, trees overhead way above anything you could imagine, maybe even touching the clouds. Their leaves gave shade to the earth as well as protecting it from the elements. Long vines like the willow tree grew down and had to be parted to enter. Within the Green Pasture, the grass was at least three feet tall and thick like a small tree. It must be well maintained as the grass had been braided slowly for years to be morphed into seating. The area was large as all of Noverak seemed to be within. The end of the lines were starting to pile in. You looked ahead to find they had decorated lanterns inside that covered everything in a nice warm light. You saw Uzul up front with Merzo as Ekoh ran down the center to greet you. He swung his arms around your waist and squeezed. You snuggled him.

“How are you?” You smiled down at him.

“I’m excited! This is going to be so fun!”

“You look so handsome.” You leaned down and fixed the necklace that he was wearing. “Who helped you get dressed?”

“Zahala.”

“He needed to straight you up.” You brushed off snow from his beaded tunic and turned him around to check his hair. “Maybe one day we will see you in here.”

“I’m going to work hard to be a part of the governing body!” Ekoh bounced back around and gave a toothy smile.

You laughed. “I’m sure you are.”

“We’re about to begin.” Lyrie came over. “I’m going to go sit with the others. I’ll see you guys soon.”

You both waved her goodbye and watched as the rest of the population piled into the leftover seats. You once again spied Uzul up front but found his eyes already trained on you. You waved at him real big and watched a smile spread across his face. You saw he had some face paint on and the usual jewelry but a cleaned up version of his usual attire. You felt so happy to see him. A soft horn sounded as a peaceful quiet fell over the area.

“It’s our time.” Ekoh took your hand and moved you to the center, the start of the path that was lined with flowers. You looked up and could see cracks through the leaves where a small amount of flakes would fall through. You removed your hood and let the fur slide off your shoulders a bit since the air felt less cool. A drum began to play, the sounds rhythmic and earthy. Ekoh started to walk, leading you down the rows of many familiar faces. At the end, Merzo and Uzul were up a few steps higher on a small platform. Ekoh led you to Uzul and passed your hand off to him before bowing. You squeezed Uzul’s hand and got in front of him before speaking. “This is your last chance. You can run, run as far as your feet can take you.” You smiled.

Uzul brushed his thumb against your knuckles. “I’m not in the business of running.” He raised your hand to his mouth and kissed it.

“Neither am I.”

Merzo cleared her throat. “It’s time for a good ole wedding. We are gathered here today to bring together the orcish union of our king and queen.” She pulled a ribbon out of her sleeve and cut it in half before tying both pieces to each of your wrists and then together again. “We ask that the Gods send us a sign to bless this union. We ask that if anyone has any problems with this union, that they dare to stand up in front of our dearest ones.” No one made any noise so the rustling in the trees was loud compared to anything else. Everyone’s eyes moved towards the sky to watch the wind blow through the large leaves like a hand raking through it.

“We’ll take that as a good sign!” Merzo yelled before placing a hand on both of your joining hands and whispering magic. The ribbon glowed. “Together, today. Now and forever. In this life and the next. You may now say something to the other. We shall start with you.”

You felt all eyes flicker to you. “I made you a promise that I would not be someone’s captive. I will be your wife. I will continue to stand by my promise on that.”

Merzo looked to Uzul. “Now you.”

Uzul squeezed your hand. “I am not an easy man to journey through life with. I know that. I will be by your side. I will lift you up. I will happily fight for you every day. This I swear to you and to the Gods. I will be your husband.”

You sniffled, eyes starting to water already with happy tears. “I love you so much!” You rubbed your face quickly.

Merzo clapped her hands together. “You are now joined together.”

Uzul swooped in quickly and kissed the cheeks that had spilling tears running down them. “I love you.”

You laugh as he pulled you in for a hug and kept you close so you could cry away from the crowd. The people were losing their minds as soon as the ceremony was over. Your husband continued to pepper you with kisses until you were less overwhelmed with your happiness. You kissed him but and snuggled into him, looking down at the ribbon that binds you both. “Are you ready for married life?”

His hands were careful with you, the first time taking care of your hair. He removed all the braids, jewels, and tangles. He combed it all out before gently clipping it up and out of the water. His fingers skimmed the back of your neck and sent a shiver down your spine. You were completely at peace, entirely focused on this very moment.

Uzul’s mouth pressed against the back of your neck. Your eyes opened. You grew hot all over and stiffened underneath his tough. His mouth moved over your shoulder blades as his hands went to your hips. He pulled you back against him, making you feel so small and safe against him. You also felt something pressing against your backside, poking into your back. Your cheeks were heating up. “Uzul…”

He moved to the other side of your neck, sucking on the flesh. You gasped and moved against him. These were all new sensations. You’d never really been with a man in any sense but secret little kisses. That was about as bold as you got despite rumors at the castle. Uzul was a totally different matter. He was handling you, kissing you, touching you. Your whole body was on fire. Your hand went to your mouth to stifle your noises. One of his hands trailed up your body and gripped your breast in his hand. Your already stiff nipple greeted the palm of his hand, sending him rubbing against your backside.

“I smell you.” He whispered against your throat, massaging your chest in both hands now as he fully stands behind you. “I want to hear you.” Uzul wastes no time about wanting to be together, you think to yourself right before his fingers find your sensitive nipples and pull on them.

You cry out and lean forward, pressing your backside into him more as you move in response to the sensation. You’re so hot and full of so many feelings you’ve never discovered before. “Uzul!” You whine, his hands still massaging your body. “ I don’t...I’ve never been with…” You pant hard as he’s now leaned over you, kissing on your neck and sucking on it again. You’re going to be covered in bruises, you just know it. “I’ve never done anything with a man.”

“That’s good to hear.” He whispered in your ear in orcish. “I had wondered about Krex but it didn’t matter what had come before me since I’ll be the one and only from this point on.” He licked up your throat, his tucks rubbing against your skin.

You were about to lose your mind. You were throbbing with ache. “Shouldn’t we be married first?” He pulled on your nipples again sending you grinding against his backside again. You felt his length spreading your cheeks and rubbed between them. “Oh by the gods!”

“Not in orcish customs. Would you prefer me to not take you here?” He released his hold on your breasts and helped your weakened form stand up.

You slumped against him, panting heavily and mouth slacked open. “I...I just…” Your brain couldn’t function words properly. “We first lay with our partners on our wedding night...I’ve never been touched before.”

“We can stop.” He turned you around to look at him, a serious look on his face.

You were apprehensive of it but at the same time, you wanted to do more things. “I don’t think I want to go all the way just yet but...I’m open to continuing until I feel ready.” You looked up to him, very aware of how pressed together the two of you are.

“Just tell me when you want to stop. Your safety is my number one concern in all matters.”

You reached up and leaned him down, his hair completely wet and falling into his face. “I will, I promise.” You pressed your mouth against his, his tusks rubbing against your cheeks.

He kissed you full of passion, the man a burning torch that feels things so greatly. Uzul had his hands resting on your hips but they were quickly sneaking back, getting handfuls of your cheeks. His tongue entered your mouth. You felt absolutely consumed and loving every second of it.

There was banging on the door, the echoes of the moment lost ricocheting down the cavern hall. Uzul is like a ghost, up and out of the water before the warmth of his body against you is gone. You are left staring at the rock interior with a hand over your mouth. You completely understand that interactions between couples is very normal in Orc culture but that residue of your human culture weighed heavy on your shoulders. You were both horrified at your wanton actions and thrilled. You pressed your hands on your cheeks and blew air out of your nose. It was the closest thing to screaming you could do. There was an overwhelming emotion flooding you.

“I’m going to lose my goddamn mind.” You whispered to the steam.

Uzul’s voice scared you to death as it interrupted your thoughts. “I’ve got to go, I’ll see you at the feast.”

“What?” You spun around, seeing him toss casual clothes on.

“It’s urgent.” He said in an almost apologetic tone before leaving.

You breathed into your hands and stared down at the heated water before questioning what you should do next. “Well, shit.” You finished cleaning up, furiously scrubbing your skin in agitation before hopping out of the water. You floored it to Uzul’s wardrobe, tossing the longest shirt you could find on and leaving barefoot with your belongings. You felt like a little drowned rat and needed assistance.

You ended up at a familiar door, the cool air of winter gently drifting by to cause goosebumps to cover your skin. You knocked on it loudly, trying to avoid any passersby as they stared at your disheveled state.

Merzo opened the door and inhaled deeply before looking at you. “He’s an idiot. Come in, little fox.”

You flew into her quarters and tossed yourself on her couch as quickly as you could.

Merzo’s warm hands gently made comforting motions on your back. “I’ll take care of you, we’ll get you ready for later.”

You imagined that to be a fact as Uzul helped you out of the tent. You had tugged a long shirt over your bandages, whining at your arm with every movement before being wrapped in a blanket. The two of you stepped into the snow as in the short distance, orcs banged on their shields like drums. There was a huge fire burning in the center of it all. The blaze could be seen by the Gods.

You glanced around, entirely unaware of your surroundings. It was still snow-covered but the mountains were behind you, far in the distance. You wobbled your way to the crowd, to see what was in the fire. What was left of a wrapped up orc was in the center with wood from all over, whatever flowers grew in the terrain, and other mixed little cloth bags that you didn’t know anything about.

It seemed that whatever had taken place was quieting down. Most orcs were back in their tents or turning in for the night except for just a few.

Krex made his way over but was beaten by a very furious Merzo. “She is to be in bed!” The older woman screeched at Uzul.

“She wanted to say goodbye.” He spoke calmly to her.

“Oh, it was her choice?” The elder came to you and took your hands. “You gave us quite the fright, Princess. I never saw someone hit the ground like a sack of potatoes like you did. I’m glad you are up and able to talk. How are you feeling?”

“Drowsy and achy. But I needed to do this. Can I give anything to the fire? We usually give roses to our dead.” You asked, squeezing her hands.

She patted you lightly. “Of course. Hold on.” The orcess crept back to where her carriage was set.

Krex looked alarmed at the old woman’s outbursts but quickly recovered. “It is good to see you are up and around. We were all worried when the news spreads. The other orcs have told the tale of what happened. You were braver than most. You are honored.”

“Honored?” You asked. Uzul’s grip tightened on you.

“Let’s not discuss this right now, Krex. She’s tired.”

Krex nodded and looked at Uzul. “But soon.”

“Not tonight.” He firmly said before gesturing behind him. “Help Merzo. Only her anger fuels her. Get her back over here.”

Krex disappeared in an instant. You glanced back at Uzul. “Why does it sound like I’m a war hero?”

“You are in the eyes of the party you were with. Xrak says you were the first to awaken. Yogal speaks of your fearlessness to cross the bridge and to dig in the snow tunnels. You are no longer a soft belly. You are Orc in the eyes of everyone here and everyone that will hear the tale when we go home.”

You stared at the fire. “I don’t feel that way.”

You felt Uzul wrap himself around you from behind. “I know how it feels to be called hero but have the weight of the deceased on your shoulders. I am sorry.”

Merzo returned, waving her hands at Uzul. “Do not lean on her! Do not! Brute! Brute man!” Merzo handed you a small cloth bag that seems to be filled with little things. “This is a lighting bag. It is filled with things to bring luck and love to the souls of the dead. There is a herb in here that sparks when connected to the fire. It helps the souls find the Gods. Whisper something to the bag and toss it in.”

You looked at the tiny gift in your hands and nodded. Uzul went to help you forward but you waved him off. “Let me do this.” He made a face but ultimately removed himself. You could feel him hovering though. You wobbled forward, the drums even louder as you moved towards the great fire. You stared up at the sky, seeing the dark ashes floating into the night. You finally made it close to the fire and stared at your bag. No more tears would come. You think you cried all your sadness out of your body. You ran your thumbs over the cloth and sucked in a shaky breath. “Thank you Vekue for what you did. I’m sorry that I couldn’t help more. To all the others that I didn’t know, I hope you find peace. I want you all to know that I wish the best for you in your next journey and for the sorrow in your families to be gentle.” You brought the cloth to your mouth and kissed it before tossing it into the fire.

You flinched away as the big strikes of fire that acted like lightning shot from the burn pile and to the sky. It lasted for several seconds until a sizzle hissed. You looked back to see almost like glitter floating upward.

The witch was by your side. “The Gods are pleased. Whatever you said was agreeable.” She patted your back softly. “They definitely found their way tonight.”

You looked back to see Uzul like a tall shadow behind you a few feet. “How long have I been unconscious?”

“A few days. Your body was healing but your spirit. It took quite the damage. I was worried you would not come back.” Merzo confessed.

“Then why is Uzul still in his armor and everything?”

You were vibrated in your little fur skin bundle. You opened your eyes to the darkness of the tent. Your heart pulsed quickly for a second as you thought you had not made it out of the goblin tunnels but the realization that this was indeed a familiar place made you gasp out loud.

A mid-snore was interrupted by your sound. You looked over to see a crumpled Uzul sitting the floor still with the blood of past battles and gear. He looked exhausted like an emotional toll had been taken from him. You do not know how long you were asleep but the orc’s dark eyes found you.

At that moment, your heart pulsed for a different reason. You remember seeing this man stroll into your home so big and large. To be honest with yourself, you were terrified at the thought of him. You knew the stories. You heard things.

But now as this huge orc looks at you with the softest of gazes even with the blood, dirt, and fierce look to him, all you wanted was him to hold you. You rolled out of your blankets to find yourself completely covered in neck to foot in only bandage wraps. Uzul began to protest and move towards you, the jingles of his beads and jewelry moving with him. The two of you met in that short distance half way to each other. You could hear him trying to pull his thoughts from slumber at he awakened to be with you.

The drums were louder now that you were awake. You cupped Uzul’s face as quickly as you could and kissed him.

It was just you, him, and the drums.

He wrapped his arms around you as if he feared to let you leave this small place, this moment in time. His tusks pressed against your lower lips. It was an unusual feeling but a feeling you would quickly get used to. His grip tightened on you and you winced, still sore from everything. Uzul released you immediately and cupped your face as you had his and stared at you. “Are you okay?”

“I think.” You admitted, rolling your shoulders to test your arm. “I’m sore all over. I feel like a carriage has run me over but I’m way better than I thought I would be.”

“The elders wrapped you in healing salve. Merzo did a prayer over your body the entire duration of your wrapped and then scribed runes into the bandages as she worked. It is strong magic but it will work.” He rubbed a thumb down the curve of your face and then over your lips. He was focused on your mouth. “Why’d you kiss me?”

You kissed his finger and closed your eyes so you wouldn’t have to see is reaction. “Because I thought I was going to die when we got separated and it forced me to think very deeply about a lot of things. I’m in love with you. I’d like to get married in your orcish traditions and have a very large orc family.”

You could hear him suck in his breath. You were very close proximity with each other. This was probably the closest both of you have ever been together. You’ve slept together of nights and rode miles with each other. But face to face was a whole different experience. You heard his voice and opened your eyes to gaze at him. “I love you too. I thought I lost you in the snow. I stabbed my sword into the nearest surface and did not go over the mountains like the rest of you did. I saw your cloak disappearing into the snow and felt what I can only describe as fear. Most orcs do not know what fear is. But I now know as I could not find you. I tore the mountain open looking for you. Any sign of you. I found dead orcs scattered like trash. I found the bodies of the rogue orcs as well. Signs of trolls and goblins. Some of the warriors said it was unwise to go looking. That maybe none of you had made it.”

His fingers twitched as he held you. You watched as a thousand emotions told a story on his face. “I did not want to leave my orcs behind but I refused to not know what happened to you. I wouldn’t go back home without that. Finally, after two days, I had heard something in the wind on top of that mountain. I knew. My heart knew. I pushed into that direction without telling anyone. They just followed. But I rode hard until I finally came over the tip of the hill and there it was. A little fleck of orange against the snow. Wobbly but alive. I heard your screaming and something just snapped inside me. I know what rage and anger is. But something very deep inside of was bubbling. Then I saw you see me. I saw you running but I also saw the little shapes behind you, coming up from the snow. I didn’t have time to say anything. I just saw you hit the ground when everyone else caught up. It looked…bad. Everything after that was a blur. It was just blood. But I heard your scream again and glanced back to see you there again, clinging to life with your fucking teeth. That was you.” Uzul pressed his forehead against yours and rocked the two of you. “You were alive, by the gods you were alive.”

You were just upset at this point. You missed him so much. You were scared you weren’t going to survive. You were hurt. “I love you so much!” You cried and flung yourself around him, snotting and sniveling as you went. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.”

“What are you sorry for?” He held you close to him, being as gentle as possible while not wanting to let you.

“I couldn’t save everyone. I tried to save everyone and I couldn’t.” You gasped for air, staring at the tent walls behind him. “There were so many bodies and then Vekue. He saved me when we were in the goblin pit. He saved me and I couldn’t do anything. I couldn’t save him. I dug us out and I couldn’t save him and I’m sorry.” You were at the point of wailing your story as your emotions were at the breaking point.

Uzul held and rocked you through it. “It’s okay, it’s not your fault. It’s okay.”

You just cried your heart out for things you couldn’t control. It was a long time until you could finally talk. “What’s the drumming for?”

He gave you a little squeeze. “We are having a remembrance for the fallen and the funeral for the only body we have.”

“Shouldn’t you be out there?”

“I can grieve for the fallen another time but there was a woman in this tent that was very much alive that I had worried for.”

You hiccuped and wiped snot on the bandages of your hand. “Can I go say goodbye?”

“Are you strong enough?”