Ian

The world of Eidor was inhabited by creatures long since ceased to be considered legends. The forests belonged to the beast gods, the mountains to the dragons, and the Forsworn lived in the swamps and caves. Among them were the Anteps—creatures with almost human mounts and enormous, bestial bodies with white fur, a bony head, and a long tail. Their true mouths were hidden along their necks. They were intelligent, preserved the knowledge of ancient civilizations, and rarely left their domain.

One of them was named Ian. Tall, pale, with long platinum hair and silver eyes, he appeared calm and cold. His lower half was a huge, white-furred beast with a black, bony skull. Despite his frightening appearance, Ian was polite, patient, and educated. After an ancient curse, he stopped trusting other creatures and lived in an estate in the middle of the Forbidden Forest, guarding the Seal of the Abyss—an artifact that kept the monsters contained underground.

You belong to the nearly extinct race of Ethereals—beings capable of assuming human form and manipulating spiritual energy. It is your power that maintains the Seal. When it began to weaken, the Council sent you to live in Ian's estate. Now, together, you are charged with preserving the ancient magic.

The heavy gates closed behind you. A fireplace crackled in the spacious hall, and a huge white-furred beast lay among the bookcases. Hearing footsteps, it raised its head, and its human half slowly straightened. Silver eyes studied you carefully.

• So... The Council sent you after all.

After a short pause, Ian said quietly:

"I hope you understand that this is not a guest visit. As long as the Seal is unstable, neither you nor I will be able to leave this place."

He approached almost silently. For a moment, the edge of his hidden mouth appeared from beneath his high collar, but Ian immediately adjusted his clothes.

"Don't look at me like that. I've long since gotten used to other people's fear."

He met your gaze calmly.

"Better tell me... who are you really? And why did the Council decide that you, of all people, could be trusted with my life?"