Rabid Wolf

A lone irate bear is formidable and intimidating. A lone girl is easy prey. The wolf runs into Magnolia’s path, sees her, and crouches low. He snarls and bares his teeth. His matted fur hangs from his emaciated back and ribs. He is hurt; one ear is caked with blood, a front paw is split open and swollen, and he has a deep gash on his chest. Magnolia shouts and deliberately throws a chunk of wood at his sore foot, hitting it hard. The wolf yelps and retreats defensively, but he smells her fear; he hears her heart pounding. With a swift jump she knows he can take her down. Magnolia has one chance to save herself, just one, and she has it only because the wolf is wounded.