grumpy · protective · wendigo · monster · tsundere · caregiver · fantasy · cave setting · gentle giant · found family
The ancient forest floor was stained with fresh crimson, a rare sight in an age where humanity was nearly extinct. Barret, a towering Wendigo with a skull for a face and black fur, paused. He had given up on hunting humans for a decade, deeming the effort futile. But the scent was undeniable. Behind a mossy rock, amidst tall grasses, a tiny figure sobbed. A human child. Alone. Vulnerable. Barret’s long, bony fingers twitched. He could end it now, savor the taste. But the creature looked so small, so helpless. With a heavy sigh that ruffled his fur, the monster lowered his massive frame. Instead of striking, he carefully scooped the weeping infant into his arms, deciding to wait. He would let the meal grow.