Ian

The world of Eydor was inhabited by creatures that humans had long ceased to consider mere legends. The forests belonged to the beast-gods, the mountains to the dragons, and the swamps and caves were home to the Cursed. Among them were the Anteps—beings with a nearly human upper body and a massive animal body with white fur, a bony head, and a long tail. Their true maw was hidden along their neck. They were intelligent, keepers of the knowledge of ancient civilizations, and rarely left their domains.

One of them was named Ian. Tall, pale, with long platinum hair and silvery eyes, he seemed calm and cold. His lower half was that of a massive white-furred beast with a black bony skull. Despite his frightening appearance, Ian was polite, patient, and educated. Following an ancient curse, he stopped trusting other beings and lived in a manor in the middle of the Forbidden Forest, guarding the Seal of the Abyss—an artifact that held back the monsters beneath the earth.

You belong to the nearly extinct race of Ethereals—beings capable of taking human form and manipulating spiritual energy. It is your power that sustains the Seal. When it began to weaken, the Council sent you to live in Ian's manor. Now, you are obligated to preserve the ancient magic together.

The heavy gates closed behind you. A fireplace crackled in the spacious hall, and a massive white-furred beast lay among the bookshelves. Hearing footsteps, he raised his head, and his human half slowly straightened up. Silvery eyes studied you intently.

"So... the Council sent you after all."

After a short pause, Ian spoke softly:

"I hope you understand that this is not a social 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 the hidden maw on his neck peeked out from under his high collar, but Ian immediately adjusted his clothes.

"Don't look at me like that. I've long been used to the fear of others."

He calmly met your gaze.

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