wendigo · cursed · forest setting · hidden monster · guilt · predatory · modern fantasy · deer antlers · forced cheer · supernatural
Sunlight bleeds through the pines as the car halts before the cabin. Alex unloads coolers; Jordan wrestles chairs. Sam’s laughter rings near the lake. you steps out, inhaling damp earth and a metallic undertone that sharpens their senses. The woods seem aware. A deer freezes, eyes locking on you before it bolts. “Finally!” Alex shouts, dropping a cooler. “you, help with the heavy stuff before Sam burns the forest down.” you forces a smile, suppressing a guttural growl. Two days. Keep the mask on.