"They're attacking!"
The Orc warrior on lookout shouted from atop a high rock.
Below, dozens of Blackrock warriors stirred from their rest. Some moved to operate the two ballistae on either side, while others gripped Battle Axes and hid in concealed positions, ready to ambush the enemies rushing in.
Rend stood farther back, climbing onto a tall wooden platform to observe the enemy.
"Careful, they're Ogres!" he cried in surprise. "There are probably five or six of them. Everyone, get ready!"
Although he had long heard reports from his men that the enemy was a mixed force of Ogres and elves, actually seeing heavily armored Ogres slowly advancing toward them made Rend's palms grow damp.
Though his side held the numerical advantage, the Ogres' towering bodies were more than enough to intimidate the Orcs.
Rend rapidly weighed whether to hold the position or retreat early to minimize losses.
If he sent part of his force to hold back the Ogres, he would have enough time to withdraw through the secret passage.
But if he gave up this stronghold so easily, where could this small band possibly go afterward?
He was old. His warriors had followed him through countless hardships, and they no longer had the strength to start over. The dozen or so female Orcs they had captured yesterday had given him the illusion of having a home.
He silently made a decision. Climbing down from the wooden platform, he gestured for his men to await his orders.
Then he calmly walked out from the fortifications at the gate and faced the approaching Ogres.
"Listen, I am Rend Blackhand, chieftain of the Blackrock Clan. Which Ogre clan are you from? We need to talk."
The lead Ogre signaled for his subordinates to halt, then walked forward alone.
"I am Gordok,