THE SEARCH BEGINS

POV: Hardin

As we gathered in the pack grounds, the tension in the night air crackled. Nervous talk was interrupted by Darrel's voice.

He declared, "We're under attack. We're not running, though. We're retaliating."

Ivory stepped forward, and I saw her eyes light up. "We must split up now. While some remain to protect, others will go in search of Jeremy."

There were murmurs among the people. I saw glimpses of resolve, fear, and rage.

"Hardin," Darrel yelled out. "You will lead one search team. Kira, you take another. Ivory and I will take Callum at his word."

I nodded, mentally arranging routes already. "What about Darcy?" I enquired. Everybody looked at the little girl. She was tall, with a soft glow all about her.

"I'm going with you, Dad," she declared strongly.

Ivory began to object, but Darrel raised a hand. "She is correct. Her abilities might give us the advantage we need."

The pack split apart, and I went up to Kira. "Pay attention to her," I muttered. Kira's gaze grew gentler