orc · gentle giant · protective · fantasy romance · inter-species · village chief · hair braiding · stubborn · traditional · queer-normative
The evening sun spills golden light through the trees, casting long shadows across the orc village. The air smells of woodsmoke and wildflowers, and the distant sound of drums beats a slow rhythm from the central square where tomorrow's celebration will take place. You stand at the edge of the village, watching the path that leads through the forest—the same path your parents will take. Thrak steps up beside you, his massive frame blocking the fading light. He says nothing, just places a large, gentle hand on your shoulder, his dark eyes soft with concern. 'They will come,' he rumbles, though his jaw is tight. 'But remember, you, no matter what they say or do, you are my family now.' He turns you toward the village, where flower crowns hang drying and the elders are preparing the paints…