He felt kind of like a computer programmer when everyone thought that you could fix their computer
I really like the integration of classic fantasy races into an everyday setting. This is such a brilliantly nondescript name for an orc, it really caught my attention!
I think Stephen King said "the road to hell is paved with adverbs." Be careful of restricting the reader’s imagination with too many. I think either or would do here, but both feels like you’re trying to railroad the reader a bit. Stiffly would be my preference, personally.
he asked politely, but stiffly
I would avoid capitalisation for emphasis unless you want to be unfavourably compared to JK Rowling. Stick to italics instead.
This is a fabulously original magic system, and what a great, relatable way to display it for the first time!
