Rendered

Chapter 20

Nuzo's POV

Grey remained silent, leaving me feeling alone, empty, and scared as I walked slowly outside the premises, still within the hideout vicinity. I sought something to occupy my mind, attempting to forget about Kenny and Tony by reviewing the impending plan. I considered potential challenges and our reactions, acknowledging the necessity of having a Plan B or C in every strategy. However, Kenny staunchly believed in Plan A, emphasizing the singular chance to get it right in war, dismissing retreat as an act of cowardice.

Unfortunately, my attempts at devising alternative plans were futile. Frustrated, I decided to venture further into the woods in the hopes of scouting the area. Memories of conversations with Grey flooded my mind, reminding me of our deep bond. He was my best friend, brother, and confidant; and we were one person. Despite our differences, I wished Grey would cease his withdrawal when our unity was crucial. Healing occurred faster when we were united, a truth I couldn't ignore. I must admit, my relentless pursuit of revenge against Kenny was the root cause of our current predicament. The revenge had backfired, and I found myself losing yet another mate. "Bahahaha!" A pained laugh escaped me, my entire being consumed by the dangerous pain of sadness and emotional turmoil.

Lost in my thoughts, I neglected my surroundings, lacking caution in my movements. "Gosh Dammit Nuzo! Get your act together. You're a grown man. Acting like a baby doesn't suit you," I scolded myself, oblivious to the approaching sounds. "Nuzo, keep still. Stop moving. Someone is trailing us," warned Grey. Crouching down, I stood still, hoping my scent wouldn't reveal my presence. The approaching figure, a soldier from Charlie's group, was visibly exhausted. He had been running from something or someone, and as he reached me, I detected a familiar smell. I walked towards him to offer assistance, ensuring no one was following him. Face to face, I realized he was severely injured.

I lifted him and carefully carried him back to the safe house. Throughout the journey, he repeated a distressing tale, “They took Charlie with them and left me to die. Charlie is hurt, we must help him.” As he slipped in and out of consciousness, I focused on getting him to the house for treatment. Upon reaching the house, he reiterated the need to save Charlie, stating that he wouldn't make it. Rushing him to the injured section, his words lingered in my mind.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, I understood the necessity of devising a new plan, especially if the secret entrance was compromised. I took a deep breath and made my way to Kenny's room, sensing the importance of informing him and Tony. "Keep it together, Nuzo. You're not weak, so stop acting like you are," Grey advised with a firm voice. He was right; this wasn't the time for weakness or nursing heartache. With determination, I entered the room and met Kenny's gaze. I knew they had sealed the bond. Holding his gaze, I spoke confidently, devoid of emotions. "Alpha, we have a problem."

He remained silent, urging me to continue. "Charlie was captured. From what I gathered, he was injured, and the area he was scouting is well-protected. I think they are guarding the secret entrance. Carlos may have shared the information. I fear Charlie might divulge our battle plan," I stated. "Call everyone to the meeting room. We have 30 minutes to rethink our infiltration and attack plan," Kenny commanded. Following his orders, I left them, assembling everyone in the meeting room. The atmosphere was noticeably different from our earlier adjournment, with warriors displaying worry and fear. I genuinely hoped we would emerge victorious.