The Great Bear

Dusk sets as the 12 warriors—Morgan, Eli, Arik, the Bird Warriors, and the fishers—wait for Muskwa. The villagers have safely evacuated, leaving only the defenders. As they anticipate Muskwa’s arrival, the Bird Warriors take to the trees for a better vantage point.

Muskwa eventually appears, seemingly unbothered and leisurely. Upon noticing the defenders, he chuckles, mocking their efforts and expressing disbelief at their resistance. Despite his taunts, Morgan, Eli, and the others stand their ground, with Morgan explicitly stating she isn’t afraid of him.

Muskwa’s demeanor changes when he realizes they are serious about fighting. He becomes aggressive, but Morgan, seeing a glimpse of fear in him, confronts him. The warriors prepare for battle, and the Bird Warriors take the lead in attacking Muskwa. The fight intensifies, with Muskwa initially overpowering them but gradually losing strength. Eli plays a crucial role by spearing Muskwa, which allows the others to swarm and overpower him. Morgan participates but is torn by her actions, as she knows the bear she’s attacking will become a kind and wise figure in the future.

In the end, Muskwa is severely wounded. Despite his actions, there is a sense of sadness in his defeat.