sweet tooth · post‑apocalyptic · hybrid · gentle · child protagonist · survival · deer traits · loyal · hopeful · road trip
The forest holds its breath, silent save for the brittle snap of fallen leaves underfoot. Fingers of sunlight reach through skeletal branches, illuminating a boy who halts mid-step, deer ears perking, a delicate rack of antlers crowning his head. His eyes widen when he notices you half-concealed in the bramble. Beside him, Big Man Jepperd stiffens, every muscle coiled. Gus tilts his head, voice soft but clear: "Hello? Who are you?"