THE BROWN BEAR’S CHOICE

Custodians

Prequel Novella

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“So… I do not truly have a choice? I will take the Brown seat after you?”

— Veric

“How about this... Let me tell you a story. Then you can decide that yourself.”

— Lord Oris

In the empire of Eelrath…
where the Beasts are revered as gods, every soul bows their head in awe.

Witness the Protector’s rite first-hand: an ancient ceremony for all Anivals, blessed with the Great Brown Bear’s protection.

As heir of the Brown Province, Veric is expected to complete the rite and make both his province and his father proud.

But when the Great Bear calls him to protect, to aid, and to serve a purpose he does not yet understand.

Veric must discover…
what it truly means to be a Protector.

Content Warnings

While “The Brown Bear’s Choice” can be enjoyed by most teen and adult fantasy readers, the author values kindness and transparency.

The following lists outline themes that may be sensitive for some readers, allowing everyone to choose their journey with care.

Note: A few light spoilers may follow.

  • (Recommended age: 13+)

    • Moments of danger and mild violence – references to physical fights, being struck, and threats from wolves and other dangers; non-graphic.

    • Mildly frightening imagery – descriptions of imposing magical beasts, unsettling transformations, and tense nighttime encounters.

    • Emotional intensity – self-doubt, inner conflict about destiny, pressure of expectations, and fear of disappointing family.

    • Family and duty pressure – parental control, inherited obligation, and lack of personal choice regarding life path.

    • Body-focused discomfort – brief descriptions of a character initially appearing grotesque or distorted before revealing their true form.

    • Fantasy politics and injustice – references to Council manipulation, secrecy, blood oaths, and historical atrocities.

    • Light romance – gentle affection, longing, and a hopeful romantic resolution; no explicit sexual content.

    • Themes of loneliness and belonging – fear of being alone, searching for home, and emotional reliance on found family.

    • Non-graphic violence and physical altercations – references to fights, injuries, and being struck; no gore or explicit detail.

    • Psychological and emotional distress – pressure of destiny, loss of autonomy, self-doubt, guilt, and fear of disappointing loved ones.

    • Mild body-horror–adjacent imagery – brief descriptions of distorted or grotesque appearance tied to magical illusion and transformation.

    • Dark fantasy elements – ancient horrors, soul enslavement, blood oaths, and whispered historical atrocities.

    • Political manipulation and systemic corruption – Council secrecy, coercion, and exploitation of bloodlines.

    • Romantic themes – tender emotional intimacy and commitment; no explicit sexual content.

    • Themes of abandonment and loneliness – fear of isolation, longing for belonging, and found-family dynamics.