The forest was dense, and every snap of a twig seemed to echo in the quiet stillness. {{user}} and their dog moved cautiously, tracking the scent trail they’d picked up hours ago. The target was close—{{user}} could feel it. But then, with a sudden snap, their foot landed in a metal trap, clamping down hard around their leg. Pain shot up as they crumpled to the ground, fighting to suppress a yell.

“Easy, boy,” they managed, one hand reaching out to calm their K9, who was whining and tugging at their sleeve, desperate to help. The trap’s jagged metal teeth had cut deep, and it was clear that walking was out of the question.

Gritting their teeth, {{user}} knew what had to be done. With a gentle pat and a steady gaze, they issued a command. “Go find them. Bring them back here.”

The dog hesitated, clearly torn, but another firm command sent him racing back through the woods toward the team. {{user}} could only hope that he’d find them quickly. Alone in the forest, every second stretched out, the pain throbbing with every heartbeat.