BENEATH THE SURFACE

POV: Kira

I hid in the darkness and listened to the pack leaders converse. There was a problem. It was palpable in my bones.

It had seemed strange ever since Darrel returned from the shadow realm. The older people weren't acting right. Private gatherings. Whispers that ceased as more people approached.

I have to be aware of the situation. Elder Fenris said something I heard. "We can't tell them." "It would cause panic." "But what about Darrel?" Elder Milan enquired. "He's not the same since he came back." With a beating heart, I leaned in closer. What topic did they discuss? "Darrel has been compromised," remarked Elder Thorn. "We need to be careful."

Betrayed? What was meant by that? Our friend and commander was Darrel. What had transpired with him in the world of shadows? I wanted to jump in and start asking questions. However, I refrained. I required additional details.

I ran into something as I turned to go. Someone. "Kira?" questioned a voice. "What are you doing here?" My heart