Page 46 of Shared By Two Orcs

“It’s quite alright,” I chuckle. “Perhaps we ought to organize a fresh new batch of tools for everyone, that one in particular has certainly seen better days.”

The man looks at me in surprise, his mouth gaping in hesitance of how to respond.

“S-So…” he stutters. “I’m not in trouble?”

“Of course not. There should be a few spare pickaxes near the entry point. Go grab one and get back to it, alright?”

“Yes sir! Thank you!”

The man scurries off. I turn to see Willo standing there with a hand on her hips and her pickaxe resting on her shoulder. Her eyebrows are raised in surprise.

“Well well well, look at you Mr. Mercy,” she chuckles. “Someone’s gone soft.”

“I guess I no longer see the necessity for needless punishment. So, are you finishing up anytime soon?”

“I’ll be here for another while but not for long. Have you got plans?”

“Aye, I’ve just finished up now. Duma should be wrapping up his watch for today in a few minutes, so I’m going to meet him for a drink.”

“Don’t have too much fun without me,” laughs Willo. She stands up on her toes as I lean down to kiss her. “I’ll catch you both later on then.”

“See you soon.”

On my way out of the tunnels, I run into Milug.

“Hey Yamarz,” he greets. Curiosity comes over his face as he raises a brow.

“What is it?” I ask, chuckling.

“That right there,” he responds, pointing at my face. “You’re smiling.”

“You’ve seen me smile before.”

“I can only count those times on one hand over the years that we’ve known each other. There’s something different about the way you’re carrying yourself recently. It’s strange not seeing you brandish your signature scowl. As funny as it may sound, you seem… happy.”

“Well, what can I say? I feel over the moon.”

“Well my friend, I’m happy for you. I’ll see you soon.”

I step out of the mines, greeted by the afternoon sun. Its long yellow rays shine down through an unobstructed sky for there’s not a cloud to be seen. I trot off towards the perimeter gates, feeling happier than I’ve ever been. As I approach them, I spot Duma dismounting from the guard tower.

“Hey Duma,” I greet. “How was work?”

“Just another day protecting this camp, you know how it is. Is Willo around?”

“She’s still working, but she’ll come by later on.”

We stop at the canteen, taking a table for two as we settle down. Duma runs a hand over his hair, his face and arms glistening with a light cover of sweat. I’m about to raise my arm to flag down one of the barkeeps when Duma’s eyes narrow at something over my shoulder, a look of deep concern coming over his face.

“What is it?” I ask.

“There’s a group of orcs looking at us strangely,” he mutters. “To your seven o’clock. Don’t make it obvious.”

I pull out a rag from my pocket, dropping it on the ground to my left. As I bend down to pick it up, I spot them. They make it obvious, not shying away as I straighten back up.

“What’s up with them?” asks Duma, a hint of panic coming through in his voice.

“I’ve no idea. Come on, we better get out of here.”

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