2

A Different kind of hero

A fearful scream pierces the tranquil night. I look over and walk towards the origin of that shattering sound. I hear signs of a scuffle. I am lead to an alley. My eyes show me three Humans: two Men and a Woman. One Man is standing in front of the Woman; back facing her, arms spread wide, protecting and hiding her from the Other. The Woman is holding her round stomach, cushioning it. I do not always understand the ways of the Two Legged, but I know something is wrong. I recognize that the Woman shall soon have a pup and is frightened of the Other. In a pack, the Life Bringer is defended at all costs. A young one, born or unborn, is sacred, never to be harmed. All life is precious and valued.

The Other holds a small object, one I see common to Humans. I have heard its loud thunderous blast, and seen the pellet streaking out of a round hole. Always it hurts and destroys. This thing never gives, but always takes. I think it is called a Gun. A Gun’s sole purpose is to annihilate, demolish, obliterate. I wonder why any creature would desire such an object, would even create it. It would only bring grief and sorrow to both bearer and victim. Yet, why am I surprised that Humans came up with this weapon? I think back to my previous Master, cruel and hurtful…

The Other holds up the Gun and points it at the Man. Why is he doing this? Does the Other not understand what will happen? Or does he purposefully intend to kill Man, Woman, and Pup? And for what? Green pieces of paper that I see passing from paw to paw? I pause in my thoughts, this is none of my concern. Leave Humans to clean up after their own problems. It should not matter to me if they wish to eradicate one another, and yet…my decision is made. I growl deep in my throat and launch myself towards the Wielder of Pain. I am knocked back. I hear shouts, sirens, and a BANG. Lightning tears and burns my belly. Agonizing moments afflict me. Finally Darkness…

Flashback

“Stupid dog. I don’t want you… waste of food. I should have you shot you mangy cur.”

Kicks and blows rain over me. Loud BANGS force me to flee. Pellets enter my leg.

In the woods. So tired.

I see my brothers. Wolves they are called.

I am saved. They take me in.

Soon I am restless. I walk back to the dwelling of Humans. The City.

End Flashback

I wake up in a white room. Gentle glove covered hands prod at my body. After a time (I know not these Minutes and Hours humans speak of, for I live in the Now and that is enough), I am allowed to stand up. The Woman enters this room. She talks to me in a kind voice and leads me out. The Man is speaking with many Humans who are carrying objects making clickity noises and bright flashes of light. I lie down, wagging my tail. I am content, accepting of whatever may come.

“This stray retriever saved my life, my wife’s, and that of her unborn child. For that, I am forever indebted. What is so amazing is the fact that there is evidence showing this dog came from an abusive home: a wounded leg, scars on his muzzle… But through all that suffering, he is still willing to forgive and even go as far as to save our lives, a species causing him so much sorrow. I would be honored to accept this dog as a permanent member of my household. After all, this is no ordinary canine, far from it. He is a Hero, a different kind of Hero…”