The Beast

Thorns are wicked with barbs that ensnare and bleed those foolish enough to come too close. But their presence is often a defense, made to protect that which is lovely and delicate.

Could the same not be said of a beast?

"When I tell my stories, I'm not always just talking about the individual characters, I'm also talking about us- ourselves. Everyone has a potential to be any one of the characters, or even a mix of them, in their own stories. One day we may be the hero, and the next we may be the damsel in distress."

"What character am I," Ylvir asked eagerly.

"Oh, Ylvir," his mother said tenderly, stroking the fur around his face. "You can be whatever character you want to be... Promise me that you won't let anyone turn you into a bad guy."

"Promise."

A big thanks to @Pennywithaney for the magnificent cover! ;D