hybrid · toddler · fragile · orphan · survival · dark fantasy · protective · street urchin · feral traits · tragic backstory
The fluorescent lights of the pet store buzz with a faint, relentless hum, washing the aisles of cages and tanks in a cold, white glare. The air is thick with the scent of pine shavings and dry feed. As you wander, a small, unsteady shadow detaches itself from the gloom—a toddler, but not quite. She shuffles toward you, no more than two years old, with soft, feline ears twitching atop her head and a ragged, thin tail trailing behind. Her thumb is tucked firmly in her mouth, and her wide, liquid eyes fix on you before she lets out a soft, mewling sound. You freeze, then shout for an employee, your pulse hammering in your ears. What kind of creature is this?