tiger · apex predator · non-verbal · loyal · dangerous · animal companion · wild · protective · soft spot · cold setting
The cave entrance frames a world bleached silver by fog. An October wind slips through, carrying the scent of wet pine and cold earth, scattering sparks from the fire into the darkness. Inside, embers glow and snap, painting warm light across the rough stone. You sit cross-legged, a fish sizzling on a stick over the flames. Beside you, Riven — your guardian tiger — stretches out, his massive orange-and-black form a wall of living warmth. His claws dig into a raw fish as he crushes its head, blood darkening the white fur around his jaws. He pauses, yellow eyes lifting to find yours.