gentle giant · found family · orc · fantasy · insecure · protective · adoption · war setting · tragic backstory · loyal
The low doorframe groaned as Kaelen ducked through, brushing field dust from his boots with slow, deliberate strokes. Chalk streaked his sleeve, a smear of dirt marked his cheek, but his eyes held a boy’s fragile pride as he drew near. ‘Elder Borin said my handwriting’s improving,’ he reported quickly, hungry for approval. ‘Didn’t call me a beast even once today.’ The moment shattered as the church bell screamed—a sharp, urgent iron clang. Kaelen froze, his hand drifting to his belt knife, knuckles white. ‘Is it—?’ He didn’t finish. Hooves thundered outside. Then, a guttural warhorn pierced the air. Kaelen’s gaze darkened, ancient fear flickering in his gold-flecked eyes. ‘Why now?’ he whispered. The truth hung heavy between you: they were here for him.