Page 30 of Orc's Mate

Chapter16

Eleri

Zarran landed on a broad stretch of tall grass that swished and swooped in the salty breeze. The vast ocean stretched beyond the island for as far as I could see, and I knew I’d never tire of gazing at its beauty.

Trees grew on the island, but they were stubby and scruffy, probably due to the sandy soil and less rainfall. Nevertheless, the island would produce what could best survive in this environment. Like the orcs who lived here.

And now me.

“Is it safe to wander around?” I asked as Odik removed our belongings from the spike on Zarran’s neck and swung them over his shoulder. “Not now, but in general.”

“We always need to be concerned about dresalod attacks, though we’ll hear them coming.”

“You mentioned they shriek.” Not an exciting prospect.

“Not only that, but the cliffs are made up of shale. When the dresalods crawl across the surface, small pieces break off and rattle as they fall. We hear that and know they’re climbing.”

“What about during a storm? It would be hard to hear them then.”

“They don’t leave the sea during a storm. They hide deep below the surface.”

“At least you don’t have to worry about them during that time.” I frowned as I looked around, noting rocks bigger than my head in piles near the edge of the cliff. “Don’t you run out of boulders?”

“We collect them and bring them back to the surface. It’s hard work, but this simple system keeps us safe. As I said, the dresalods don’t attack often, every six months or so. They’re more interested in the city for some reason.”

More people to eat? I shuddered at the thought.

“They’re ruthless,” he said. “Relentless. And they’ll rip apart anyone in their path. They eat us, so I want you to always carry a weapon on you.”

I bit down on my lower lip, nodding. “I’m not very good with weapons.”

“That’s why I’m here. But truly, if you see or hear one, find me. Run as fast as you can. Get away from it. I’ll do all I can to shield you.”

I loved that he was determined to protect me, but I couldn’t hover beside him all the time.

“I’ll take you into the city soon to get you more clothing,” he said.

“Just material if that’s available. I worked as a seamstress and my embroidery is exquisite, if I do say so myself,” I said proudly. “Though I don’t imagine there will be much call for that here.”

“There are still females living on the island, though less in number than males. If they can’t bond with a mate here, they leave to find one. We encourage them to bring their new mate back, of course.”

“I can make clothing for you too,” I said. “I only need material and thread. A few other things.”

“Then I’ll take you to the city for those.”

“Thank you.”

As Zarran leaped up and flew away, Odik took my hand and led me toward the weathered building overlooking the sea.

“It’s cute,” I said, studying the sturdy wooden frame. “Bigger than I expected.”

“There are only five rooms, though if need be, I’ll enlarge it.”

My pulse picked up with anticipation. What would it be like to live in a place not controlled by others? No rent as far as I knew, and no one poised to tell me I’d have to move soon. “Five is more than I had in the village.”

“Perhaps one day, the fates will gift us with orclings. We’ll need room for them.”

“I’ve never considered having children.” Why would I? No one would have me. “I’d love a baby, though.” My heart melted at the thought of holding a child, raising it to be strong and confident. Loving it.

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