don't turn away now

she did not know if it was her surprised grunt or the roar of the beast that was first. she had spotted the polar bear making its way to the ship, trying to climb up and in. there was no time to really think about these things. she let out a loud snarl, recalling the pups that liked to wander and play in the depths. without a second thought she launched herself at the polar's dangling legs, dragging the beast down with her to the ice. they both landed with a crash; her only support had been surprise else her meager bulk would have done nothing. "bear!" she gasped loudly, trying to catch her breath but her lungs screamed for release.

to warn the others, perhaps, or even bide them time to flee. the people of Winterfell would fight for their home, and she felt better about facing it alone for now. bears only wandered into a populated area for food. Heloise did not want the bodies of the children staining the earth, half eaten by a hungry bear. the creature turned on his attacker, eyes fiery with anger. Heloise quickly got to her paws, backing away as it began to swipe wildly. she dodged the blows, but it approached quickly. too quick for her to react properly. the squire felt rapid pain streak her senses as the bear's paws collided with her body.

she was flung aside like a doll, hitting the ice heavily. her shoulder was mauled from claws. blood only added to the bear's hunger, and it advanced on her with drooling maw. Heloise struggled to clear her head and get to all fours, but the crimson liquid made her footing hard as it pooled under her. she slipped, hitting her chin against the ice.