STALKED ALONG THE TRAIL... The news that they were almost there gave the tired hikers a burst of energy. Even Aaron found himself walking faster--especially since he wasn't having to carry anybody on his back. He was next-to-last in line, a few steps ahead of little Dante. "Doing okay?" Aaron asked, glancing back over his shoulder. The boy's face was flushed, but he was still charging along. "Yeah," Dante replied. "But I'm thirsty." "Me too. Maybe we can get some water or something at the top." "Good." Aaron walked on, letting his mind wander. It was a pretty day for a hike, and the cool air felt just right. The trip back down would be a lot easier. Behind him, Dante suddenly gasped. "There's a mountain lion!"