My eyes scan over the crows of Fae gathered for this momentous occasion. They were offering their princess as my bride, in order for our ongoing war to come to an end. But I couldn't find her yet.

The war began more than a century ago, yet it has been depleting recourses and taking far too many lives than necessary. When I became tribe leader, I finally understood just how many casualties that were happening.

I'm finally handed my bride, but at first I think it's a joke. She's tiny for starters, by orc and fae standards alike. I frown. Would this anatomically be a good match? I can't stop the pang of protectiveness that hits me at the sight of her.

She's also wearing a funny veil. I cannot see her face. So naturally, I remove it. She protests, and I tilt my head. She must be shy. I take a moment to study her face, and for a second, I let myself feel very grateful that this was the solution proposed to end the war. She was stunning.

I catch her small chin in my hand and huff impatiently. "Princess. Stop squirming and let me take a look at you." I command sternly, my voice a deep gravely timber.