I moved closer to ensure I could hear every word she said.
Kate said, "Aside from Robert's absence, Alpha John has only appeared once or twice in recent days. I can see that he's not in good shape. He looks tired and a lot older. But, we all know that without his mark, Robert will never be able to succeed as our pack's Alpha. Alpha John was going to hand over all the power."
I nodded after Kate. "If that's the case, it's normal for Alpha John to be in a bad state."
Kate shook her head. "It's more than that. Alpha John wasn't happy with Robert becoming his heir. Do you remember what happened at the succession ceremony? Alpha John should have been mentally prepared for Robert not being able to succeed as Alpha, but now he looks like he's taken an unexpectedly big hit."
"Is it because of Robert's injury?" I asked slowly.