It wasn't supposed to be like this. My father had promised me that they would defeat the orcs without difficulty, especially with the backing of Prince Terrin. He wasn't supposed to die, get their army destroyed, and leave us defenseless.
As I watched the enemy advance on our lands, I knew we couldn't resist. The fortress would be able to withstand for a time, but no one would come to save us, and our enemies would eventually break through.
When a message came for me, I could scarcely believe the words. The leader of the orcs wanted to speak to me face to face and give me a chance to surrender without bloodshed.
I wasn't foolish enough to think there wouldn't be a price to pay for that; I just didn't expect it to be what it was. Kleora, the leader of the orcs, wanted to arrange a marriage in exchange for the safety of my people.
It was a hefty price, but one I felt I had no alternative but to pay.