Generational Trauma

Xairo didn't hesitate. He lunged forward, aiming for the vulnerable belly of the fallen badger. His teeth found purchase on soft flesh and he bit down hard, feeling the warm rush of blood over his muzzle. The badger screeched, a horrifying sound, but Xairo wouldn’t relent. He gnashed and ripped until the badger's blood curdling cries trailed off into desperate whimpers. His teeth tore into the creature, his own pain and exhaustion fading into the background as he went for the kill. But of course, as the badger’s desperation set in, it retaliated with a renewed fervor, its strength born out of sheer fear and the primal need to survive. The badger kicked out with powerful hind legs, catching Xairo off-guard and sending him tumbling backward.

Before he could regain his footing, the badger hauled itself out of the snow- leaving a bloody trail in its wake as it retreated to its den. Panting heavily, Xairo watched as the badger disappeared into the darkness of its set. His heart hammered in his chest, a deafening drumbeat pulsating in his ears. His entire body ached, from the scorching pain of his wounds to the dull throb of exhaustion that seeped into his bones. Looking himself over, he had several lacerations down his side. A handful of punctures that littered his body. His breaths came in ragged gasps, burning his lungs like the biting cold wind. Xairo forced a painful growl through clenched teeth, the taste of victory bitter-sweet on his tongue.

"Xairo Saxe"