Timmon: “We’re almost there men. Lets just keep it pushing just a bit longer. The acoustics of the forest has to be playing tricks somehow on us but we are close.”

As they neared the sound of rushing water, the forest canopy began to open up, and rays of light started to pierce through, painting away the darkness on their skin. The scent of fresh water hit their noses, and the temperature dropped.

Unable to contain their excitement, they summoned every last ounce of energy, ready to throw themselves into the water despite any risks. They looked forward to jumping in, drinking as they swam, getting clean, and maybe even drowning if that was the price to pay.

Pushing through the surrounding bushes, they were tired, dehydrated, sleep-deprived, and mentally at their limit. They pushed all those feelings aside, but when they finally looked out to where they heard the rapidly flowing river, their excitement and hope were instantly stolen.

The river seemed to have vanished, or more accurately, it was concealed. What the five of them encountered were massive, sinewy roots that entangled themselves over the once free-flowing river. This river, a majestic span of nature at least eight feet in width, had been veiled beneath this natural lattice. The woven pattern bore an uncanny resemblance to a colossal hand that had swooped down and zipped the river up, leaving behind an eerie, almost unnatural, organic conduit.

The roots were thick and gnarled, like the twisted fingers of some ancient, subterranean giant. The sound of the water was still there, a teasing, muffled roar beneath the dense network of roots. It was as if the forest itself had conspired to hide the river from them, testing their resolve one final time.

Timmon's voice carried disbelief. "Look at this. What in the world is life? Why is this even a thing? The author of our destiny is clearly a cynical being.”

Ben shook his head, equally stunned. "This can't be real. We survived the forest. We heard the river, and felt the cool air of life's fluids, but... what are these? How does a river get covered like that? It can't be that, can it?”

Mr. Major inspected the scene with a critical eye. "Are you telling me this river is sealed shut by these roots?”

Ben knelt down, carefully examining the massive roots. "I've never seen anything like this in my studies. But its familiar somehow. Nature can be mysterious, but this is on a whole new level.”

Tobi's voice was once again sounding strained. "Water! We need water, I need water, and this... this is a cruel joke. We’ll have to dig or cut through these roots. There’s no other way. We need that water.”

Ben focused intently on the root system. "Give me a few minutes. I think I know what this is. Let me study this a little longer. I'm not an expert in the field, but I know a thing or two about hydrotropism.”

Tobi, confused but desperate, asked, "What is that?”

Ben, while concentrating on the roots, replied, "Hydrotropism is a plant's ability to grow in response to moisture. It means that these roots are likely seeking water.”

Scott, trying to grasp the situation, said, "So, you're saying these roots are trying to find the water source? If they are, then these plants are pretty dumb.”

"Exactly, Scott," Ben confirmed. "These roots are essentially leading us to the water, but in their relentless search for moisture, they've created a barrier.”

Timmon suggested, "So, if we follow these roots in the right direction, we might eventually find an opening, a weak point in their structure that we can exploit.”

Mr. Major's tone was decisive. "Let's not waste any time then. If these roots are our best shot at water, we need to follow them carefully, step by step. And from the looks of things, we have a decision to make. On the right-hand side, the root river grows down leading back into the forest, but if we go left, we'll have to climb, and if we get high enough, we could met the water source at the risk of dealing with the cold.”

Scott voiced his concern. "Are you mad? You guys can't climb that. Some of you are hiding injuries, and the fatigue will increase the chances of accidents. Plus we'd be too exposed climbing the roots into the forest. Remember the sound of that bird we heard that night in the forest? It was probably a few days or months ago? I can't really tell anymore. But this is still an alien environment that we're in. We can't just climb in our condition. We're weak and tired, and if we climb and fall, then what? You guys might have better bodies but you are not built for climbing on low energy reserves, besides Mr Major, the rest of you don't have any experience or skills yet.”

Timmon: "Okay? What would you have us do? Use our energy to dig at these roots, follow the roots back into the forest, or do nothing and wait for help? Because either way, we die, and I'd rather die fighting and trying, because where there is a will, there is a way.”

Tobi tried to muster some enthusiasm. " If this is about me. I don't need any of you to worry. I'll do my best to keep up, we can do this guys. Go wolves.”

"Shut up, Tobi," Mr. Major snapped. "We don't have time for all the jokes right now."

Ben examined the root closer. " Before we start moving, let me study this thing just a bit more. The root has a plastic feel to it, but it bleeds when cut. And the gaps in the roots alternate like a pulse, like it's alive. I think if we cut it the right way we could cause the root to move and potentially have it spring some of the trapped water."

Tobi's voice was faint but inquisitive. "Isn't everything alive? Why don't we just cut the root and eat it? We've been nibbling on any and everything to make it this far. I have the seeds and twigs in my pockets as proof.”

Scott's frustration and desperation boiled over. "We need water! Why are we doing all this talking? If we're climbing, let's climb. I won't be sitting around here waiting with you guys. See you losers at the top. If I die, you can eat my ass.”

Scott's outburst shook the team from their deliberations.

Timmon tried to calm him down. "Listen to me, Scott. We all want water, but we need to approach this strategically. Climbing blindly could lead to disaster.”

Ben added, "Remember, Scott, we're a team. We have to stick together and make the best decisions for all of us. Let's not risk any more lives than we already have. Let me figure out the best way to tackle these roots, and I promise you I can access the water.”

Tobi's desperation turned to determination. "Scott, we're in this together. Let's keep following these roots carefully. We'll get through this.”

Scott, defiant, said, "Honestly, I don't care anymore if you want to stop me. You can try, but you will have to catch me, or you can try throwing a stone to hit me off the root river like Mr. Major hit Tobi off balance back then.”

Mr. Major couldn't help but quip, "That does sound fun, don't test me. I just need a moment of rest.”

Timmon intervened. "Let him be, guys. We know the risks, and we are all free to do what we want. First or last, we have to climb if we want this water, it seems, or we can take a chance following the rooted river into the forest and try to find some new source of water that is even more reliable than this source. But the climb aligns more with our mission to return to the others at the settlement. If we climb high enough we might be able to locate a land mark we can then use to find our way.”

As the sun's scorching rays continued to beat down upon the team, making every step an arduous journey. They watched Scott being the first to ascend the rooted river; his footsteps punctuated by the rhythmic splashes of water escaping through the cracks.

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Using the pointed edge of a carbon fibre stick, Ben diligently probed and engraved the roots, aiming to widen the gap or excavate a hole large enough to reach the concealed water source beneath their feet. Cutting the root was ideal, but with the tools they had, sawing and boring were the best he could do in his situation. Frustration crept upon him as progress remained slow.

Ben couldn't contain his fascination with the unique environment. "Guys, take a look at these root systems," he remarked excitedly. "It's like nature's plumbing system, designed to siphon water efficiently. I can literally see the roots absorbing water as we speak. Its probably adding to the air pressure we feel escaping the gaps in the room. Imagine the biology behind it all!”

Timmon chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "You're turning into quite the botanist, Ben. Next, you'll be naming these alien plants.”

Mr Major, sweating profusely and panting, chimed in, "I'd rather climb to find the rooted river's opening if I have no other choice but to stand here in this sauna.”

Ben observed, "The roots are surprisingly warm to the touch, and judging by the chill breeze seeping through the gaps, the water must be ice-cold, fresh from the snow-capped peaks of the crater wall.”

Timmon pondered, "So, does the root river extend over 3000 meters? We can't make or survive a climb like that. Even at our best, that's a six, maybe seven-hour climb, and according to the sun's position, it's midday. This could also explain the heat, but to be honest, this heat isn't as bad as on Earth.”

Mr. Major considered the altitude. "You're forgetting that this volcano is already at high altitude. I'm unsure how to explain the tropical weather, and winter winds are just above that mist-like cloud. I'm surprised there aren't hurricane-type winds or events happening regularly up there. In case I've jinxed us, let's get a move on it. Let's start this climb. There are a lot more roots ahead that we can study, so we really don't need to stay here. Plus getting off the ground might not be such a bad idea. Scott just started his climb, and he's already out of sight. From how he was struggling as he left, I know he wasn't walking fast, and from the looks of things the roots interlocking groves makes good for foot holds. If we start blanking out due to dehydration, it's going to be bad news. I'm surprise it hasn't happen as yet. Let's use that to our advantage and go. Let's give Tobi a hand also it might just be me but i think the effects of the slime are starting to resurface even though he's no longer physically contaminated. I'm surprised he's still conscious, living through this marathon must have been hell times two. Look at how his face and muscles are still so deformed I was expecting them to revert eventually but this world is real, with real problems and consequences.”

Ben disagreed. "Forget Tobi. Look at the plants around the rooted river. I think we could eat them.”

Timmon was firm. "Not without Scott, we ain't. Plus, we need to test them first.”

Ben suggested, "Give the plant to Tobi.”

Timmon snapped, "Shut up, Tobi!”

Mr. Major pointed out, "He didn't even say anything that time. Haha. Plus thats rich coming from Ben, we all know he wouldn't throw Tobi under the bus.”

Timmon was dismissive. "His absence was loud. Anyway, collect what you can and let's keep it pushing.”

Before long, the team was on the move. They were climbing and taking in the sights. They could see birds in the distance, and as they looked off into the forest, they could see giant bugs hard at work, too far to make out properly; the forest was alive.

Timmon, breathing heavily, his hiking boots securely anchored on the rooty terrain, observed, "Look at that. Our altitude is increasing, and the forest canopy is beginning to unveil itself, like a meticulously drawn curtain revealing a hidden stage.”

Ben, optimistic, his keen eyes assessing the surroundings, said, "We must be on the right path. These tenacious roots, their intricate network, tell us we're heading towards something of great significance. Also the roots up here are wet so be careful of slipping.”

Mr. Major paused to catch his breath, and he suitably braced his limbs. All the years of survival training are evident in his steady movements: "Cautioned, stay sharp, everyone. Our primary mission is securing a water source. Keep moving, but keep your senses keen like Ben said, watch your steps for there is water springing probably up ahead."

Timmon noticed that Tobi had stopped and was busy biting at the root. "Hey, man, stop biting the root, Tobi. It's not edible, is it?"

Ben considered the possibility. "They could be. These roots have evolved a remarkable adaptation to their environment near the river. The plastic-like texture and the way they bleed when cut are all part of a smart survival strategy.”

Timmon was curious. "Survival strategy? How so?”

Ben explained, "Precisely. The alternating gaps in the roots, for example, allows for flexibility in absorbing moisture. During heavy rains or flooding, they expand to absorb and store a considerable amount of water. Conversely, in dry spells, they contract, conserving the stored moisture.”

Mr. Major: "Don't stop. Lets walk and talk. You're saying it's like a built-in water storage system!”

"Exactly," Ben continued. "These roots probably covered the bed of the river when it was a slow stream, and as the water became plentiful, they started to swell, creating a channel for the water. The gallons of moving water probably made it easy for the root to keep growing until it curved in on itself. Plus, the bleeding mechanism—it's not just a response to damage. It's a deterrent against herbivores and insects. The sap might have antiseptic properties, helping the plant heal from injuries and preventing infection.”

Timmon marvelled at the complexity of the simple explanation. "That's fascinating. Nature's solutions never cease to amaze me. I wonder if there's any way we can use that sap for medical purposes.”

Mr. Major nodded. "So, it's a matter of adaptability, resilience, and defence mechanisms all rolled into one to help these plants endure the riverbank's ever-changing conditions. But the continuous absorption of water by the roots. Where is it going? I wonder if one plant is responsible or a collection of plants?”

Ben: " You're on the the same track as me. And I too have those same questions I hope to one day have answered. Nature has a way of crafting ingenious solutions for survival, even in the face of unpredictable environmental challenges. These roots have mastered the art of bending the water they so desperately need.”

Timmon's attention shifted. "Hey! Why does Tobi have weapons? And why is he digging up the root like that? He's really just eating the soft root insides.”

Ben's voice was tense. "What do we do? Just keep walking? We can't do anything for him but watch him die faster than he already is. Its clear that his sense as fading again but not as violent as before.”

Mr Major observed Tobi's desperate actions. "Damn, from the way he's eating that root, I think I should try it.”

Timmon dismissed the idea. "Whatever. To each their own. Let's focus. Water can be unpredictable in these terrains. We can't afford not to find this water source; our survival depends on finding and purifying the water. But we must proceed with caution. Given the circumstances, we are not the only ones in dire need of water. If the river had been open, we would have all taken the risk of getting some alien sickness because we had failed to check for dead animals or contaminants upstream. Drinking this water without purifying it first could be as lethal as any problem known to survivalists.”

Mr. Major was firm. "Timmon's right. We need to secure this water source and make it safe for consumption. But first, let's focus on reaching that opening in the roots. We've climbed for hours; it's got to be around here somewhere. The stream of water flowing along the roots has increased.”

Timmon agreed. "Finding an opening in this rooty terrain should be our immediate priority. But once we do, we also need to assess the air quality around the opening. Prolonged isolation of fluid, stagnant or moving underground can create a buildup of noxious gases. Our survival depends on not just finding water but also ensuring we can breathe safely at high altitudes and around the gases that might escape from the space below the roots.”

Ben: "We've been through some tough spots, but this might be the most critical juncture of our expedition. Let's find that opening and make sure we can access and purify the water it leads to.”

Their thoughts and theories converged, their scientific backgrounds and survival skills blending seamlessly into a desperate but determined quest for water.

Timmon's voice cut through the tense air, resolute and unwavering. "Remember, team, we've come this far, and we're not giving up now. Ben, your expertise in biology might come in handy here. Have you ever dealt with underground terrain before?”

Ben, drawing from his knowledge of biology, nodded thoughtfully. "Not specifically underground, but I've studied cave ecosystems. We need to be vigilant for signs of life or potential hazards.”

Tobi's excitement bubbled over as he shouted, "Water! Look, it's seeping through the roots!”

Timmon wasted no time. “Drink!"

Tobi's enthusiasm was met with caution from Mr. Major. "Hold on, what about purification? We can't afford to overlook precautions.”

Ignoring the warning, the team eagerly pressed their lips to the root's surface, greedily sucking in the cold water rushing through the gaps.

Mr. Major: Don't drink too fast in this heat; you could catch a cold. Wash your face, wet your wounds, and drink slowly. These might be common events, but if they aren't, then we might have a problem.

A minute or two later, after drinking and peeing and drinking some more, the team was invigorated with new life. The ice-cold water mixed with the heat and hunger pumped strength back into the muscles and hope. As they quenched their thirst, a distant sound echoed through the cavern. At first, dismissed, it grew closer and more distinct. Was it a voice?

Scott's voice, muffled yet urgent in the distance, reached their ears. "Get off the fuck!”

Ben strained to decipher Scott's message. "I think he said, 'I'm almost there, guys. Pray that this is the breakthrough we've been waiting for.’"

Timmon's scepticism crept in. “Really? I heard something else, something urgent because the world fuck was in it."

However, Mr. Major's acute instincts sent a jolt of alarm through him, pulling his attention from trying to understand what Scott had been saying. As his head darted around, clearly scanning the area for the thing that was making him feel uneasy, Mr. Major decided to look down. As the cold water ran over his shoes, he noticed something below, just among the canopy. It was a miracle that he was even able to notice it.

There it was in the shadows, lurking among the nearby undergrowth, a lurking danger they hadn't anticipated coming across again. "What is that? Has it been tracking us all this time?” Mr Major asked himself. “This isn't good if it is what I think it is. We are many meters high right now, so my eyes could be deceiving me, but dammit! If it is what I think it is, how many more of them are there, or by chance, is this wolf a loner?”

Swiftly signalling to Timmon, pulling his attention from what Scott was saying, Mr Major subtly pointed out the object, somewhat still concealed in the shadows at the edge of the forest below.

Startled, Timmon reacted promptly and urgently called out for Scott to return, his voice echoing up the side of the crater wall along the rooted river and clashing with the words that Scott was urgently trying to relay himself.

The sudden outburst from Timmon placed Ben and Tobi on guard. As tension in the air grew suffocating, Timmon kept calling out to Scott as they continued to climb upward on the now slippery root river.

Ben, leading the group with his steady pace, glanced back to ensure Tobi was keeping up. "Stay close, Tobi. We need to watch our steps.”

Tobi nodded, his eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of danger. "I got it, Ben. Just keep moving.”

Meanwhile, Timmon's voice echoed with urgency as he continued to call out to Scott. "Hang in there, Scott! We're on our way! Come back if you can!”

Whatever Scott was attempting to convey in the distance was a mere murmur to the others, who could only hear his distorted echo, which was being drowned out by the intensity of the rushing water. The tone carried an urgency that was impossible to ignore.

Fuelled with water and conviction and the enigma of what lay ahead, the team pressed on upward, their determination unwavering.

A glimmer of hope emerged from the distant echoes of Scott's voice, hinting that he might have found something. This glimmer sparked a frantic rhythm in their hearts, a desperate beat for survival.

Did he find an opening to the water source? If so, half of their mission was complete. The echoes came one after the other. “UP! FUCK! OFF!” Was he made?

Ben: We’re coming, Scott! Hold your horses. We got our bellies filled with water! We’ll make it!”

But as Ben was talking, he heard, “Look! Get! Now!” Why were Scott’s echos making less sense the closer they got to him? Something was wrong, and from the looks on Timmon and Mr Major’s faces, he needed to stay focused, watch his footing, and ensure Tobi was handling himself well on the terrain that was his only task now they made it too far to lose anyone.