17. Mia

My head is spinningfrom this surreal experience. How can any of this be real?

If it weren't for Rayowlf's barely-contained excitement as she bounces up and down in her seat while the crowd goes wild, I might think this was just a drug-induced dream.

Or maybe a nightmare.

I'm not sure what upsets me more: Ray's happiness that her brother is about to propose to Bayliss in front of the entire town or the smug satisfaction on the face of Renowlf's intended queen about that forthcoming proposal.

Why I'm seated next to Renowlf like his sister rather than Bayliss is a mystery. She's seated on the dais, too, but in an area off to the side with what looks like VIPs. The small group of orcs are better-dressed than the townspeople crowding the square, and they practically ooze arrogant self-importance. Bayliss looks right at home there.

There's another small group of orcs seated on the dais near the VIPs. This group looks older and less flamboyant than the Bayliss crowd. They're dressed simply, but seem important. They look unhappy about what's about to transpire, and I have a feeling they would rather be anywhere else right now.

Maybe they don't like Bayliss, either, although it's more likely that they don't like the idea of an "alien" like me giving their king an heir. They don't know I'd rather die than give Bayliss a baby to raise.

Renowlf basks in the adoration of his subjects for several minutes before standing to deliver his speech. When the crowd quiets, he begins.

"Citizens of Owlf, I stand before you to make a momentous announcement. One that will secure the future for all who reside within our borders. The naming of my intended queen."

Renowlf's voice is commanding, deep and forceful, which sends a little shiver down my spine. This would all be easier if I wasn't so attracted to him.

"Yet before I do, I must give thanks to Orgel the Trader, may he rest in peace. Orgel's actions, both good and bad, will never be forgotten. By bringing the human female from Earth to our land, he all but guaranteed that the royal heir needed to preserve our kingdom for the next generation of orcs will be born."

When the group lets out cheers and catcalls about me and my dead captor, I sit up straighter and with my head held high, even though I wish I could disappear. A quick glance at Bayliss confirms what I suspect: she loves this spectacle as much as I hate it.

"For many generations," Renowlf continues, "we believed that our way of life was set by the gods and the only path to follow. Yet the human female has demonstrated that the worlds beyond our own have much to offer. I ask that you embrace her arrival as an opportunity to forge a new path forward."

"Who will be queen?" someone calls out.

Renowlf's fierce gaze silences the impatient orcs. "The female I have chosen is worthy of your respect and admiration. She is brave, beautiful, and strong. And her intelligence and compassion will be invaluable assets to our kingdom. With her by my side, we will rule Owlf as it was meant to be ruled: with honor, loyalty, and strength."

I've got to hand it to Renowlf, he sure knows how to work a crowd. The citizens in the town square are practically vibrating with anticipation while Bayliss beams like a beacon at his praise. Ray glances my way and her joy guts me. She's just a kid, but it still hurts. Tears sting my eyes and I blink them away.

"Let me make one thing perfectly clear," Renowlf roars, his voice suddenly menacing. "I will not tolerate dissent. Any subject who rejects my choice or disrespects my consort will be banished from the kingdom!"

He glances back at me, and I can see by the look on his face that he's warning me to fall in line and accept my fate.

Screw that. I'll never fall in line behind Bayliss. Never.

"Without further ado, I ask that you raise your voices in cheer for my intended queen."

In what feels like slow motion, Bayliss stands as Renowlf pivots toward me, grabs my hand, and pulls me to my feet beside him.

"Mia from Earth!"