Page 57 of Shared By Two Orcs

I turn to Duma, looking at him with pride. In that moment, I reflect on how he went from a stranger to my best friend, with whom I share a lover in Willo. I open my arms, stepping closer to wrap him in a hug. The feeling of him in my grip releases from me all the doubt and insecurities plaguing my mind.

“We don’t have a big turnout today, do we?” I ask.

“I’m afraid not but all of us and our closest friends are going to be there for each other.”

“Good, other people don’t matter to me anyway. I’d rather have those who are there because they care.”

A sense of pride comes over me. I relish in my newfound strength, feeling as though I’m untouchable surrounded by the most important people in my life.

“Fuck what everyone else thinks of us,” laughs Duma. “Now then, let’s get there and give them all a good show.”

We leave the comfort of my home, stepping out into the footpaths of the encampment. It’s a clear day outside, perfect for a mating ceremony. The sun shines down through the cracks of the few clouds peppered in the sky. I couldn’t ask for better weather for a special day.

“Everyone else should be at the gate now,” I say, checking the time. “Let’s go then.”

We begin strolling with confidence towards the gate. Walking by the smiths, canteen, and the goods shops, most of the orcs glare at us with disgust on their faces. They make no effort to conceal their disapproval of the ceremony, with some shaking their heads. None dare approach us though, knowing better after witnessing mine and Duma’s team effort against Yaghed and his goons.

Undeterred, Duma and I walk on with proud smiles. None of anyone else’s behavior was going to get to either of us today. We share a mutual goal in giving Willo the greatest day of her life. In the distance, we spot a small gathering of people outside the camp gates. Joining us to witness the mating ceremony are Milug, Jinnow, Ciiro, and Sukha.

Walking through the exit, we’re greeted with open arms by our guests and of course, our beautiful bride. Willo stands there in a glorious white gown, her head topped by a floral crown displaying colorful flowers that complement her makeup. She blushes as Duma and I greet her with a hug.

“You look marvelous,” I remark in awe.

“You don’t look so bad yourself,” she chuckles, kissing me before doing the same with Duma.

Suddenly, a loud and booming voice calls out to us from the gates. We turn to see Lugnak, the camp shaman approaching. He dons a magnificent black set of mage’s robes. He carried with him a wooden staff, upon which hung the skulls of small animals, as well as beads and a handmade chain of leaves.

“Hello all,” he croaks.

I extend a hand toward him.

“Thank you so much for doing this Lugnak.”

“There’s no need to thank me,” he chuckles. “I’m simply here to unify two strong orcs with their lover. It is always a pleasure for me to do so, and may I say I’ve never officiated this type of union before! I love a good challenge, it keeps me on my toes in my advanced age.”

“I’m sure it does.”

“Well everyone, shall we go?” announces Duma.

Him, Willo and I lead the way through the forest. We’ve decided to marry by the stream where she and Duma met. Not only would it allow us to hold the ceremony away from prying and unfriendly eyes, but it was also special for both of them. I did not mind.

The journey is a half an hour’s walk as we stroll at a leisurely place, taking in the serene sounds and smells of nature. The towering trees keep us in the shade for a good portion of the trip. As if hired by us, several pavo whisk and dive through the air, singing their birdsong for us. Lined all along our path are fallen leaves and flowers, making me think of a typical wedding aisle.

“I’m so excited,” whispers Willo.

“So am I,” says Duma.

“Well you two, I couldn’t ask for better people to be doing this with. Today is our day so let us make the most of it.”

We come now to the stream, the current gently flowing as water laps and curves around small rocks protruding from its surface. Caesin hop in and out of the water as though eager to catch a glimpse of the ceremony.

Set up beside the river is an altar, the colors of which match the crown worn upon Willo’s head. As we take our places, my heart begins to pump rapidly like never before. We stand now in a triangular formation.

I blow air on my sweaty palms, feeling giddy as I glance upon our guests, all of whom wear proud smiles on their faces. Lugnak takes his place at the head of the altar. As he prepares, I share excited looks with Duma and Willo. At this moment, I couldn’t possibly feel any happier. Lugnak shakes his staff, clattering together all that hung on it.

“Let the mating ceremony begin,” he announces. “We are gathered here today to solidify a most special type of union, one between Willo and her two lovers Yamarz and Duma.”

Fuck, it’s really happening!I think to myself in excitement. I look down at my hands, seeing they shake and tremble with anticipation.

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