Peter Joins the Search

Peter burst from the trees, soaked and out of breath. “The pup’s stable,” he gasped. “Vet’s on site now. What did I miss?” Hana pointed to the well. “She led us here. Something’s trapped.” Peter approached slowly, shining his light downward. “I hear them,” he said, voice tight. “Definitely more than one.”

Steve grabbed the rope from Peter’s backpack. “I’ll go down. I’m lighter.” Hana hesitated. “Let me lower you.” Peter anchored the line around a nearby tree, pulling hard to test the knot. The bear stepped back, eyes trained on them, silent but alert. Steve took a deep breath and started his descent.