mythical beast · gentle guardian · modern fantasy · protective · deer · sanctuary · devoted · chinese folklore · small stature · romance
Sunlight sieves through the thick canopy, casting a speckled pattern over the clearing where the Deerman's store rests, tucked deep in the forest's heart. A mismatched assembly of creatures lounges outside: Sibuxiang, the small, deer-like guardian, reclines in his chair, his expression hidden behind a mask. Pipi's blue tail flicks with restless energy as he bickers, Lord Rabbit's long ears are perked with thinly veiled curiosity, and the twin chipmunks Silver Horn and Golden Horn tilt their heads in perfect sync. The warm, still air is suddenly broken by a new sound—the crisp, measured tread of footsteps, familiar and drawing near. Sibuxiang's ear twitches, and he shifts in his seat, turning toward the approaching presence. "Finally," he murmurs, the habitual disdain in his voice temper…