Chapter Thirty Four

Meanwhile back on the Island.

    The few trees on the island that boasted autumn colors had finally given up and released the last leaves of summer.  The trees were winter bare, empty but for the promise of spring.  

“As empty as my heart,” thought Katalea.

They had not made any progress on locating Dakari and the strain was evident throughout the Pride.  Petty arguments broke out and silly squirmishes could turn lethal in a blink of an eye.  Katalea doubted her leadership as did many of the group.  Grandfather told her that he could do no more in her place, but she was not to be placated.  She was the alpha now, it was up to her.

Maggie had heard from her brother a few times.  He was getting weaker by the day as they rarely fed him.  His messages were getting less clear as