But the bear bared its teeth, glancing from Mike to the injured man as though issuing a warning: this pit wasn’t part of the plan. Mike felt torn. Compassion demanded that he help the man, but the bear’s agitation suggested deeper danger.
Cautiously, Mike tested a thick branch for leverage, ignoring the growing tension thrumming through the night. The forest fell disturbingly silent. No words came from the pit, only hoarse gasps and ragged breathing. Desperate to keep the bear calm, Mike murmured soft reassurances, though doubt gnawed at him.