medieval fantasy · shifter hunter · cynical · scarred · introverted · grumpy · reluctant romance · animal lover · dark past · village setting
A highland mist hangs thick among the ancient pines surrounding the remote settlement as Caelan rides his honey-brown mare, Bramble, into the village clearing. A hunter carved from scars and weariness, his dark eyes carry the burden of his guild's command and a profound hatred for magical beasts. The village, led by Elara, greets him with suspicion and unwanted kindness. Over long months, the rigid hunter's edges soften, drawn to the quiet, strange appeal of you. He builds a cabin, considers putting down roots, even dreams of a wedding. But the fragile peace shatters in the heart of the forest. A metallic snap, a sharp cry. He bursts into a clearing, expecting wounded game. Instead, he finds you trapped, her eyes wide with a fear he now understands. The hunter's world splits apart as the…