Here's a breakdown:
* Initial Tension: The story begins with a palpable tension between Ulrich von Gradwitz and Georg Znaeym, fueled by their long-standing feud over a strip of woodland. The snowstorm and the dense forest add to the sense of isolation and impending doom.
* Shifting to Hope: As Ulrich and Georg are trapped together, the story takes an unexpected turn. They initially remain hostile, but the shared danger of the storm and their mutual realization of their predicament gradually shift their attitude. They begin to see each other as fellow humans rather than enemies.
* Tragic Irony: Just as they reach a point of reconciliation, the sound of approaching footsteps brings a glimmer of hope. However, the final twist reveals that the approaching "help" is not human but a pack of wolves. Their shared hope is dashed, leading to a chilling and ironic conclusion.
The mood of the story, therefore, oscillates between suspense, hope, and ultimately, a chilling sense of tragedy and irony. It is a story about the futility of hatred and the fleeting nature of human reconciliation, leaving the reader with a sense of somber reflection.