Martha turned away with a sad whine, backing out of the circle of dogs. She ignored the Fierce Dog standing guard, loping past him through the meadow with her head bowed.

The Fierce Dogs led Wiggle to his littermates. He leaned against Lick, his ears flat. “Do we really have to go?” he whimpered.

Grunt scowled at him. “We belong with dogs like these—fierce, brave warriors—not that ragged bunch of scroungers who cower at the sight of a silly giantfur!”

Blade’s ears pricked up and she cast a curious look at Lucky. The other Fierce Dogs growled, as if the giantfur was in earshot. That they were not terrified of such a beast made Lucky’s tail droop in unease.

At last Blade released her grip on Daisy, who scampered away, trembling at Bella’s side. “Prepare to leave!” Blade barked. The Fierce Dogs stiffened.

“I don’t want to go!” Lick whined.

“Me neither,” said Wiggle. “Mickey, don’t let them take us!”

Mickey lowered his head. “We won’t forget you,” he murmured pitifully.

Blade glared at him. “One more word, fluffy pooch, and I’ll rip your throat out!”

Mickey flinched. Lucky tensed by his side, preparing to fight if he had to. If Blade touches Mickey she’ll have to deal with me—even if it’s the last thing I do!

Blade lifted her muzzle, trailing her challenging gaze around the circle of dogs. Then she turned away, her body stiff and triangle ears pricked. The Fierce Dogs started marching toward the pine trees—Blade in the lead, Mace at the rear, and the pups trapped in the middle.

Lucky stood bolted to the spot, watching as the puppies were led away. Forest-Dog, protect these pups. They’re so young and innocent, and their Pack is so vicious. Please don’t let them come to any harm.

The Sun-Dog bounded above the Fierce Dogs, making his descent over the horizon. Lucky looked into the clear blue sky. How could it be so peaceful when there was so much chaos in the world beneath it? He remembered the storm that had terrified his Pup-Pack as they had cowered at their Mother-Dog’s side. He thought of the mighty Sky-Dogs. Weren’t they the most powerful of all the Spirit Dogs?

Lucky sent out another prayer. Please, mighty Sky-Dogs, keep my little Packmates safe.

Wiggle pressed to the edge of the Fierce Dog Pack so he could throw Lucky a final sad look. Lucky cocked his head, his tongue lolling from the side of his mouth. He forced his tail to wag. He hoped this was encouraging, that it would give the pup some strength for the long road ahead.

It was a struggle to find the energy not to howl or turn away. Inside, Lucky’s heart was twisting in sorrow.

CHAPTER TWENTY