No More ?'s

Ludovic froze as a polar bear’s hulking silhouette emerged from the underbrush he had been meandering near, its black eyes locking onto him. He quickly assessed the situation—too close to retreat unnoticed. He noted its sluggish posture and the swaying of its head, deducing it wasn't hunting but curious. His mismatched eyes scanned the terrain, identifying a steep slope to his right. He remained still, observing. His heart beating harshly in his chest. Provoking it would be foolish. Especially if it was not intent on killing him… yet. He waited for the bear’s attention to waver, perhaps too weary or too full from a recent meal, then slowly edged toward the incline. A quick escape downhill, with the bear less nimble on the descent, was his best option—calculated risk over brute strength. But he did not count on a fucking stick, snapping under toe, and for all his caution he still got screwed. The bear instantly whipped its skull towards him, small eyes locking unto him as it bellowed, revealing yellow teeth as it advanced on the boy.

"Ludovic Praetor-Inferos"