Page 80 of The Orc Queen

“It’s actually ancient orc law. I didn’t know about the Sokos, but apparently it includes them too.” I say.

I prepare our bath and can’t help but smile. Looking at her carrying our children solidifies my convictions and the decisions give me peace. More peace than I’ve had in a very long time.

This is the right way for us. And I will come out victorious.

For my children. For my people.

And by the Gods, I will be victorious.

I carry her inside the tub and wash her body. I take my time with her hair too and we stay in the tub until the water goes cold. The cold water is no longer enjoyable now that summer has passed.

I butter her body with her oils that are fragranced. No doubt the job of Hani.

Our females were never much into things to soften themselves for the males, but Bono females were known for their vanity. A total contrast from their males who growled for no reason every time they speak.

My mate can hardly bend anymore, and I help her in her clothes. I make breakfast after, feeling her gaze on my back. After breakfast, I massage her body. I am in no rush to go out there and face this.

I’m sure the messengers from Bono will get here soon and I will attend my uncle and the tribe after I attend Aria.

The day goes by and as we sit to eat lunch; a knock comes from the welcoming room. I side eye the intrusion.

“Let’s ignore it.” I say, lifting a fig to her mouth.

The knock comes again. They seem determined to disturb us. I rise, my face not trying to hide my annoyance.

“Just don’t kill my friends, orc.” She says after me. I don’t know why, but that makes me feel good. My mate has companions. I know it’s something she has struggled with in the past and I am glad she can find some here in my land. It means she is settling in well.

I stifle the bounce in my step, and I school myself before I pull the door open. Surprise fills my features when I find my mother and uncle at the door.

“Mother, uncle.”

“Nephew. You need to come with me.” Uncle's face is hard.

“Why?” I plant myself where I am.

My mother’s eyes look behind me and I hear Aria’s bare feet pad on the floor.

“There is something you must see.” He says, his face serious.

“Can’t it wait? Aria and I were eating. I will come after.” I say.

“I will remain with Aria. You are needed,” mother says. Something too akin to some softness passes her face when she looks at my mate, my head turns to Aria.

“Go, Igor. I’ll remain with her.” Aria stands next to me, her hand touching my back as if to calm me down.

I kiss the top of her head before I follow my uncle. I am expecting anger and an argument, but he doesn’t say anything. My alarm is spiked as we turn the corner to the main corridor.

“What is this about, uncle?” I ask.

He glares my way briefly before he looks ahead. “What were you doing in Langa’s domain without my approval?”

“I think you know,” I say firmly.

He scoffs. “The challenge? You are going to challenge me too, I’m guessing. The Law of the King has never been invoked. And there is a reason for that.”

“Your point?”

“You can’t win a challenge with me and Langa.” He stops. “Unless those dragons gave you something you aren’t sharing.” He narrows his eyes.

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