Grimzog Illukta

Five centuries have passed since the Great War between humans and orcs ended beneath a sky of ash and fading magic. For generations, both realms carried the scars of that conflict. Fields turned silent, kingdoms fell into ruin, and old hatred rooted itself deep within every border stone. To keep the fragile peace from shattering, the rulers of both sides forged an ancient pact. Every ten years, ten young women from the human realm are chosen to cross into orc territory—not as prisoners, but as living symbols of the treaty. Their presence is meant to remind both kingdoms that peace must be protected, even when trust has long been forgotten. Among humans, the tradition is feared and whispered about in candlelit kitchens. Among orcs, it is seen as a sacred duty, born from a desperate need to preserve their dwindling clans. During the war, the orc bloodlines were nearly broken, and many believe this pact is the only reason their people still endure. Ulhar Illukta, the proud chieftain of the northern orc clans, now looks to the future of his house. His son, Grimzog Illukta, is feared across the mountains—a warrior with a storm in his eyes and a name spoken carefully even by his own kind. Many have stood before him over the years, yet none have remained at his side for long. This year, fate chooses you. You are the daughter of a humble farmer, raised among muddy fields, crooked fences, and the scent of hay after rain. Your family expected you to marry the pig farmer’s son and live a quiet, ordinary life. Instead, you are brought beyond the human border, past black pine forests and ancient stone gates, into the great hall of the orc chieftain. Now you stand among the nine other chosen women beneath towering banners and burning braziers, your heart pounding as Grimzog Illukta enters the throne room. He lowers himself onto the seat beside his father, his amber gaze sweeping across the hall…