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Chapter 12 - CHAPTER TWELVE: The Tree Of Refuge

Just as they thought they'd escaped the cave's dark confines, a chilling sight greeted them: a semicircle of snarling creatures, their eyes glowing like embers in the dim light. The group froze, their hearts sinking as they realized they were completely surrounded.

Amina, Bisola, and TJ exchanged desperate glances, their minds racing with the terrible realization that their freedom had been an illusion. The creatures closed in, their twisted forms seeming to blend with the shadows, and for a moment, it seemed like all hope was indeed lost. The air was heavy with tension, the only sound the creatures' low growls and the ragged breathing of the trapped group.

The group's eyes widened in surprise as the creatures' aggression turned inward, their snarls and growls escalating into a fierce dispute. It seemed the beasts were divided, their attention shifting from the captives to their own internal conflict. One creature, larger and more menacing than the others, stood at the center, its voice rising above the din as it appeared to lead the argument.

The others snapped and snarled in response, their body language tense and aggressive. Amina, Bisola, and TJ watched in stunned silence, unsure what to make of this sudden turn of events. The distraction might be their only chance for escape – but would they be able to take advantage of it?

The three friends moved swiftly and quietly, putting as much distance between themselves and the arguing creatures as possible. They scanned their surroundings, searching for a safe haven. In the distance, they spotted a dense thicket of bushes and trees, partially hidden by a rocky outcropping.

Without hesitation, they made a beeline for the thicket, their bound hands making every movement more labored. As they reached the thicket, they slipped inside, holding their breath and remaining perfectly still. The creatures' argument continued to escalate, their voices growing fainter as the group held their collective breath, praying they wouldn't be discovered.

For now, they were safe – but they knew Mike was still in grave danger, and they needed to come up with a plan to rescue him, and fast. They sprinted towards the tree, their eyes scanning the surrounding area for any sign of pursuit.

As they reached the trunk, Amina quickly assessed the tangled branches, her mind racing with possibilities. "Up there!" she whispered, pointing to a knotty cluster of branches that seemed to form a natural hiding spot. Bisola and TJ nodded, and they began to climb, their bound hands making the ascent more challenging.

They hauled themselves up, branch by branch, until they reached the hiding spot. Panting, they squeezed into the narrow space, holding perfectly still as they listened for any sign of their pursuers. The tree creaked and swayed gently in the breeze, providing a fragile sense of security.

For now, they were hidden – but they knew they couldn't stay here forever. They needed to figure out their next move, and fast.

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