He staggered, still trying to hold off the cold bite of death.

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He had seen this before, but always from the winning side.

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Now he was on the losing side; the defeated; the prey; death.

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Buck circled for the final blow, the ring of dogs pressed closer.

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He could feel their hot breaths; ready for the kill.

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A stillness fell; all was in its place; time had stopped.

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Even the cold air between them froze for one last moment.

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