With a Whimper

The moment seemed to drag on forever. Her blood turned white hot as her mind tore in two: run with Lark or fight. If they ran, they could both live, or they could both die. Given the proximity... Sparrow wasn't sure. Lark had a mate and kids. If she fought... the outcome was clear, but Lark could get away.

There was fear so strong that tears pricked at the edges of her eyes. On top of that was a powerful feeling of love. Her brother's kids would grow up with both parents. Lark could live Sparrow's dream of having a happy family.

Sparrow turned and took a few starting steps with Lark, making sure he was on the move ahead of her. As soon as she was sure Lark was on the move and she was sure the bear was after them, Sparrow pivoted on her hind legs. She faced the bear head on. There was no winning for her- she knew that. It was just about buying time.

Sparrow went for the bear's shoulder. Jumping away, the bear followed. Good. Sparrow breathed a sigh of relief mentally.

The fight after wasn't long. Sparrow did her best, but it was no contest. It wasn't the quickest death. It wasn't painless. But Sparrow didn't regret it.

She could feel the bear still tearing at her body, but it didn't hurt anymore. Her flesh tore and twisted, but it the sensation was void of pain. What a peculiar feeling, she thought, knowing it was the last thing she would be able to feel.

There were a lot of thoughts left even after her body stopped moving. The past, the future, none of it mattered. She saw laughter and happiness- whether it was true or just what she wanted to see she wasn't sure. Slowly, the thoughts faded away as what was left of her body cooled.

It wasn't the way she thought she'd go. It wasn't valiant nor peaceful. It was a pathetic attempt to do damage control- just as she had always done.