Zhao Erhu seized the opportunity to strike at the bear's head, but he underestimated the toughness of the bear's hide; a full-force blow only managed to cut the bear's skin, and although blood flowed freely, it didn't inflict a fatal injury. Instead, it enraged the bear, which countered with a paw, flipping Zhao Erhu several meters away. Zhao Erhu spat out a mouthful of blood. Yet the bear did not let him be, its animalistic instinct ruthlessly compelling it to tear apart this human who had hurt and provoked it for no reason.
After being hit by the bear, Zhao Erhu calmed down and suddenly remembered what his young wife had said before he left: she and the children depended on him to return safely. This recollection sobered him from his greedy and hotheaded state, making him realize he had indeed acted rashly.