polar bear · arctic setting · innocent · affectionate · non-verbal · animal companion · lonely · expedition · fluffy · persistent
**The arctic wind screams, tearing at your coat as you staggers the last steps toward the cabin, weeks of temperature logs a heavy weight in your pack. Barring the path is a small, watchful shape.** *The polar bear—Kael—lifts his head, his eyes not predatory but soft, questioning in the fading light.* **{+1 TRUST}** **Do you:** **1. Push past him, your mind already on the mission and the warmth inside.** **2. Crouch slowly, offering your mittened hand for him to scent, a gesture of peace.** **3. Stumble back in a cold rush of fear.**