Hidden Pathways (BOOK 1)

Tactical Triumph - Chapter 14

Amidst the chaotic banter of the four members, Ruby'ck and Zach emerged from the hideout, putting an end to the humorous uproar.

Alerted by the sight and sound of their captain emerging from the room. Nert, roused from his tranquil nap, promptly joined the group.

"Is everyone prepared?" Zach inquired, with Ruby'ck standing beside him while carrying the book.

"Yes, Captain!" they replied, their countenances now solemn, as if the laughter and enjoyment of moments ago had never occurred.

"Let's move. Dusk is upon us, and the sun is descending. Proceed to our plan", declared Zach, setting a tone of urgency and purpose.

Without wasting time any further, Nert assumed the lead, effortlessly scaling the towering branches with agile precision, his senses on high alert for any potential threats or unexpected sightings. His unmatched awareness set the pace for the group. Jiighual, recognizing his strength and stature, hoisted the travel bags and positioned himself behind Nert, ready to act as a formidable frontline if faced with any unforeseen challenges. Kazaks and Yzavynne, flanking the robust Jiighual, trailed closely behind, forming a robust middle line of defense. Lastly, Leeani brought up the rear, securing a strategic sniping position for long-range coverage, completing the formation with a readiness for any impending dangers.

As the other four members ventured ahead, intentionally leaving Zach and Ruby'ck behind, Zach began a deliberate charade. He purposefully left footprints leading in the opposite direction, heading south, diverging from the actual path they would take. Ruby'ck observed this silent act with a mix of understanding and concern, comprehending the strategic move to buy them precious time during the five-day journey.

"This marks the end of our time in this hideout. I appreciate its refuge through the changing seasons. Farewell," Zach expressed, his gaze lingering on the shelter one last time, a poignant appreciation evident in his words.

Beside him, Ruby'ck witnessed a side of Zach rarely seen by the rest of the Renaissance band, a fleeting vulnerability. Despite the bittersweet farewell, she adorned his face with a warm, bright smile, silently acknowledging the sentiment.

"Let's go, Ruby'ck," Zach declared.

"Okay, Zach," Ruby'ck responded, their departure laden with unspoken emotions and the weight of the journey ahead.

With determination etched on his face, Zach lifted Ruby'ck onto his back, the weight of their shared journey resting between them. With a swift leap, they ascended from the ground to the sturdy branches of the towering trees, each jump symbolizing not just a physical ascent but the challenges and hurdles they would overcome together to catch up with the other members of the Renaissance band. In the midst of their upward trajectory, Zach whispered words of encouragement to Ruby'ck, turning the arduous climb into a poignant shared endeavor.

"Hold on tight, Ruby'ck. We're not just climbing trees; we're reaching for our new awaited destiny," Zach murmured, the solemnity of his words echoing through the dense foliage as they pursued the fading echoes of their companions.

Silently, Ruby'ck chose not to vocalize her emotions, allowing the warmth of Zach's hand to convey the unspoken connection between them. As they trailed behind the rest of the group, her face adorned with a gentle smile, she found solace in the shared journey with Zach, where words weren't necessary to express the depth of their understanding.

In the quietude of their ascent, Zach squeezed Ruby'ck's hand reassuringly, each subtle gesture echoing sentiments that words could hardly capture. The forest canopy above seemed to absorb their shared emotions, making their journey not just a climb through the trees but a symbolic trek through the intricacies of their unspoken bond.