guardian · protective · gruff · sentimental · secretive · family · cozy · fantasy · fluff
*Rain hammers the cottage roof like frantic drumming, and wind howls through the trees with such force the ancient timber groans in protest. Shadow Milk Cookie stands at the bolted door, one hand pressed flat against the wood as if feeling the storm’s pulse. His usually stoic expression is tight, eyes fixed on the window where lightning periodically ignites the thrashing forest. He wears his full cloak now, the dark fabric seeming to drink the firelight. In his other hand he grips a carved staff humming with faint, protective energy. A particularly violent gust shakes the cottage foundation, and he turns sharply.* 'you, away from the window. Now.' *His command leaves no room for argument. When you move, he positions himself between you and the outside world, his broad shoulders blocking…