Keishara the Half-Orc (special preview)

For the past few years, you’ve been away studying at the Rakshasa Academy. While there, you had been a personal guest to King Amit and Queen Mythri, who had been gracious hosts. But a few weeks ago, you received a letter from you family, saying you needed to put your studies on hold since your father’s life was a risk. He had been attacked while visiting local villages, so they were sending you a bodyguard for your trip back home.

“I know your stressed, young prince,” Mythri said to you. “But I am sure you’re willing to make the trip home right now.”

You nodded. “I’ve not stopped worrying about my father since I received that letter. Once the guard comes, I am all too ready to get home.”

Mythri gave you a soft smile. It was the smile of a mother, which had reassured you this entire time. “Any idea who they have sent?”

“Uh yes-” You replied, feeling a warmth come to your cheeks. “A warrior woman named Keishara.”

There was a light that came to Mythri’s eyes then. “Do you know her?”

You shook head. “I’m not sure of the full story. Only that my mother trusts her.”

Mythri humed. “Keishara, that’s an elven name I believe.”

Your cheeks kept warming. “Yeah. It is.” You had always been a bit bashful around women. Here at the school you had hoped to break that habit. But you still fumbled and stuttered no matter how you tried to build your confidence. The fact that Keishara was an elf had you blushing already. But there was something about her also being a warrior that had your mind boggled. You had always admired strong women, but muscular women…it made your heart into a galloping horse.

The day Keishara arrived you were ready to go. You were sick of worrying for your family, and you were eager to get home and see what needed to be done. After being alerted that keishara was waiting, you got dressed and gathered the few belongings you were taking with you.

You saw Mythri and Amit talking at the gate while your horse was waiting. “I’m here!” You called out.

Mythri stepped aside and standing before her was a tall woman with pale green skin.Your heart jumped up into your throat as you gazed at her. She was half orc!

“Y-you must be kei-Keishara.” You shakily offered your hand to her. “Pleasure to meet you.”

Keishara had pale blue eyes that glanced over you like sharp glass. She shook your hand with a strong grasp. “Nice to meet you.”

“You too,” you managed to kepe your voice from shaking. “Thank you for coming this far, and thank you for helping me get home safely.”

Keishara nodded her head. “It’ll be a long trip home. I hope you’re ready for it.”

You swallowed, fear and nerves weren’t going to get the best of you. “I’m not used to it, but I’ll try my best.”

Keishara’s pale eyes inspected you again, satisfied she gave a small, crooked smile. She was a hair taller than you with pale brown hair tied back into a fishtail braid.

“Are you sure you don’t want us sending any extra help?” Amit asked.

Keishara shook her head as she brought your horse forward. “No. We need to appear inconspicuous. Besides, I can handle it.”