TUFF: Mystery of the Green Menace

By Richard Hedrick,Jr.

In the gripping pages of "TUFF: Rennie, Hopi, Tina, Mack," readers are transported to the picturesque and enthralling setting of a stunning mountain town, where turbulent adventures and excitement await. Here, in this tranquil yet mysterious locale, our four intrepid protagonists, Rennie, Hopi, Tina, and Mack, are about to embark on an extraordinary journey that will challenge their wits and courage beyond imagination.

Their inspiration stems from an extraordinary source, a high school science teacher renowned for fostering a culture of fierce competition and curiosity. It is under the guidance of this remarkable educator that they discover an ancient secret—a hidden mountain cave site that holds the enigmatic remnants of alien technology, including a remarkable time machine.

As the story unfolds, readers are taken on a rollercoaster of time interludes, each revealing a unique and riveting facet of the past, present, and future. The mountain cave becomes a portal through which our heroes explore the depths of history, encounter distant civilizations, and bear witness to both the awe-inspiring and perilous consequences of their actions.

But the true climax of this extraordinary tale lies in a futuristic showdown of epic proportions. In a dazzling spectacle that defies time and space, Rennie, Hopi, Tina, and Mack find themselves pitted against the sinister Green Menace and his cunning apprentice, Poison Ivy. As they confront these formidable adversaries, the fate of not just their mountain town but the entire world hangs in the balance.

"TUFF" is a pulse-pounding, heart-racing adventure that will leave readers breathless and on the edge of their seats. With its masterful blend of science fiction, mystery, and the boundless power of human determination, this novel is a tour de force that captivates the imagination and keeps you guessing until the very last page. It's a journey through time and space, where courage and camaraderie are put to the ultimate test. As the final page turns, the stage is set for an eagerly anticipated sequel that promises even more exhilarating exploits and extraordinary revelations.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Nov 15, 2023
• ISBN: 9798350933567

Book preview

Chapter 1

The Parallel Realm

Newton’s Peak is a peaceful and friendly town known for its picturesque streets adorned with white picket fences. Children can be seen playing merrily in the local park, while townspeople gather at the farmer’s market. There is an expansive sky that stretches above the nearby high mountains.

On a clear night, one can spot the constellation Orion with the iconic archer figure. This charming town boasts law enforcement officers who, given the lack of crime, spend their time leisurely playing cards while on duty or watching Pearlie Poor’s Cat get retrieved from the neighbor’s tree.

Newton’s Peak is home to four lifelong friends: Tina, Rennie, Mack, and Hopi. Growing up together they forge a deep bond that will be tested as they embark. Here along with stargazers, they uncover the trilogy of stars known as Orion’s belt. Here they uncover the radiating brilliance of the night skies.

The people of this town share a strong spirit of camaraderie, making it a place where everyone knows one another.

These four friends in their teenage years have united in their quests for future frontiers.

Together they decide to dedicate their unique skills to the pursuit of observing and protecting the unexplained mysteries that lie beneath the seemingly tranquil surface of Newton’s Peak despite their desire to be taken seriously they often feel their cause is ignored by the community. However, they are unwavering in determination and very energetic.

These friends are at a pivotal stage in their lives unaware that their remarkable qualities have been nurtured since childhood, their journey is marked by an unwavering dedication to understanding the unexplained mysteries that surround them.

Renni

Meanwhile, there’s a not-so-typical school lecture given by the school principal.

In mid-lecture, he tells, "One should set clear and achievable goals, know your passion, and set goals aligned with your interest.’

This pop star writes on a posted note, My goal is to sell 3,000,000 records.

To everyone’s surprise, he ended up selling 25,000,000 records.

Mack knows of the complex star of the posty-note’s most famous tale.

The lecture starts winding down.

Daydreaming, Tina panders being a principal for a day. Principals seem to dress up and stay out of sight most days. They seem to have the right lecture at the right time in the lecture hall, but we never see them at our Football games, they probably don’t get paid that much anyway.

Tina daydreams but is a master of Camouflage. She wears a special suit that mimics the colors and textures of the lecture hall making her virtually invisible to an on-looker. She has a penchant for style, and color and gets nicknamed Ms. Perfect.

Hopi, on the other hand, has modified a robotic backpack. The rig simulates the breathing of a sleeping student. She leans back in her chair and peers attentively while her backpack transcribes the principal’s words for later.

There are other antics beyond these. Thorough teamwork helps them pass many of the school’s written science exams, they pass tests through lip reading and have a knack for non-verbal exchange.

Tina, an exceptional biologist, stands out, she can analyze samples while keeping her social skills.

Hopi is a guide for Stargazers. She is of Indian heritage and gets joy from showing the wonder of Orion’s Belt. Her approach is to blend her scientific knowledge with cultural roots. She explains how the constellation holds a special place for the Hopi Indians.

They associate Orion with stories of creation, heroes, and ancient knowledge that can serve as a bridge between past and present.

The Observatory is in demand this clear, beautiful summer night. She does not have much time it seems for the stream of visitors: Parents bring their children.

Students verify internet searches; lovers come to confirm Horoscopes or just venture out for the evening.

To all, Hopi helps them have respect for the night sky. Constellations come to life when she connects the twinkling dots for her stargazers.

She volunteers through the summer season, it’s only evening work. Stars come to life from a twinkle as she teaches how to find Orion and the distinctive three stars that form Orion’s Belt.

Stargazer, I see it, I see it! She knows