“You ready for what comes next?” Helen asked Kurl, stopping and resting her hand on the orc’s thick back in a reassuring manner.

Kurl looked up from his work, his black, glossy eyes locking on Helen’s. Then he nodded with a grunt of confirmation.

Helen held his gaze, making sure there was no hesitation there. The orc blinked, still looking at his adopted mother. She smiled. “You’re a good boy, Kurl,” Helen said, patting him on the knee. “You know that?”

Kurl grunted noncommittally, returning to his work. Helen stayed with him, gently rubbing his back like a proud mother.