Tread Fearless: Survival & Awakening (The Gatekeeper Book 4) (53 page)

In an impromptu acceptance speech, he told everyone he was grateful to be a part of the “quest” and hoped, someday, to understand John’s unique gifts. With that, everyone shouted, “Amen!” and they all laughed together heartily.

After a quick meal, the company was packed and ready to go. Jasper mounted up and took off to deliver a message to the Cactus Posse. After learning about the posse, John wanted them to know about the available supplies. There was no point in wasting them, or letting them fall into the hands of surviving Crew members.

With their confidence up after experiencing such a traumatic and potentially catastrophic event, the company felt bold and unstoppable. John heard all the talk, the conversations about reaching the ranch victorious. But a part of him knew they weren’t finished yet, not by a long shot. In fact, he knew they would face many more tough and life-threatening challenges along the way.

But he had to admit, every challenge they faced made them stronger. He didn’t know how they would reach their destination, but he was certain they would be arriving on foot. Until then, they would travel as far and as fast as they could, and close the distance to their destination to limit as many footsteps as they could.

The adult members of the company might have forgotten his earlier warning about walking, but it really didn’t matter at this point in the trip. Whatever did happen, would happen for a reason. Of that, John was sure. The question for him was more one about time. He thought he understood why, but the when was also important. He knew everyone in the company would have to pass through the crucible. Everyone would be made to change in some way, and he hoped they could weather the storm.