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You do know that it would be wiser to devote more attention to your schoolwork, even at the cost of cutting back on climbing trips with Brett. But those trips have produced some of your favorite memories with your friend, who also introduced you to camping and shares your love of the outdoors.

Brett's a natural athlete, a trained paramedic, and something of an adrenaline junkie. She's also a fine shot with pistol or rifle. You vividly recall last year's camping trip up along the ridge, miles from anywhere, when a deadly rattlesnake slithered into your campsite. Brett's back was turned, when her dog started toward the snake, tail wagging. Before the rattler could strike…