The Next Day – Lunchtime at Camp
It was one of the rare slow moments at camp. The sun hung high, the gorillas had retreated deeper into the forest, and the team took advantage of the lull to sit down and eat.
Maggy, Zoe, Amina, and Emmy gathered near a log where they'd spread a few food containers. Laughter bounced lightly through the humid air.
"Ugh, the humidity is turning my hair into a jungle of its own," Zoe groaned, tying it into a messy bun.
"I think mine's evolving into its own species," Maggy laughed.
Emmy pulled out two sandwiches she'd made that morning—one for her, and one… she paused, unsure.
She always gave one to Zack lately. Like a quiet, unspoken routine.
But before she could even unwrap hers, Erick appeared, plopped down beside her, and—without a word—snatched the sandwich right out of her hand.
"Hey!" Emmy blinked at him.
"What?" Erick said, taking a bite. "You always make too much anyway."
"Since when do you steal my food?" she asked, half-amused, half-bewildered.
Zack, a few feet away, looked up from where he was tightening his boot strap, his gaze flicking to Erick—and lingering.
Erick didn't look back.
"I just figured I'd try one before someone else gets it," Erick said with a knowing glance.
Emmy caught the undertone.
He knew Zack usually got her second sandwich.
She narrowed her eyes slightly but said nothing.
Amina leaned in with a smirk. "Okay... is it just me or did that feel pointed?"
Zoe grinned. "Definitely marked his territory."
Maggy made a mock gasp. "Protective much?"
Erick just shrugged, chewing.
Zack approached, casually dropping into the circle. "Didn't know we were stealing food now," he joked, voice light but with an edge.
Emmy gave a tight smile. "Guess it's a new thing."
Zack's eyes flicked between them—Erick calm, Emmy unreadable.
It was a simple lunch, just sandwiches and laughter.
But under the surface?
Lines were being drawn.
And no one was pretending not to feel it anymore.
Later That Afternoon – Emmy Wandering Alone
I had wandered farther than I meant to, my feet taking me deeper into the jungle. The trees opened like a curtain, revealing a hidden patch of heaven—a lush garden, wild and untouched, painted with every kind of flower I could name… and many I couldn't.
Bright butterflies danced through the air like living confetti. Blue, gold, fiery orange. They fluttered around me as if I belonged there.
"This is a paradise…" I whispered to no one.
Drawn deeper, I followed the garden path until it gave way to a quiet swamp, still and mirror-like, where white swans glided across the water. Their feathers shimmered like silk under the sun.
One swan separated from the others, drifting toward me slowly. I didn't move. It stopped just a few feet away, locking eyes with me like it understood something. Then suddenly—whoosh—it flapped its wings and soared upward, disappearing beyond the canopy.
Something stirred in me.
So I kept walking. And walking.
A pavilion stood up ahead, old and graceful, half-covered in vines. A figure stood there—tall, still, staring off into the trees.
"Hey," I called out.
The figure turned.
Erick.
His brows furrowed like I'd snapped him out of a trance. "Are you talking to me?"
"Uh, yeah. I didn't know anyone else was out here."
He looked around, confused. "Are you sure we're on the right path?"
I blinked, suddenly unsure. "I… guess?"
He squinted. "I think it's back that way." His tone was different now—clipped, tense. That calm edge from earlier was gone.
"What happened to Sandwich Thief Erick? Now you're all serious."
He didn't answer right away. Just nodded. "Let's go."
I followed. But something about him felt…off.
As we walked in silence, a soft sound caught my ear. A rhythm. Rushing water.
"Wait!" I stopped, grabbing Erick's arm. "Can you hear that?"
He paused, listening. "…Yeah."
"I want to check it out."
Before he could respond, I was already moving. The sound grew louder with every step—then finally, through the trees, I saw it.
A waterfall.
Wide, cascading into a crystal-clear pool, the mist glowing like magic in the late afternoon sun. It was like something out of a dream.
I stepped forward, hypnotized.
"Wow… it's… it's magical."
Erick walked up beside me, breath caught. "How did we not see this before?"
I glanced at him, his eyes fixed on the waterfall. His guard was down again, the weight behind his shoulders forgotten for a moment.
But just as I turned back to the falls—a movement behind the water caught my eye.
A shadow. Not a person. Not an animal.
Something else.
But when I blinked… it was gone.
"Let's go," he whispered, his voice brushing against the back of my neck like a breeze.
I froze.
His breath was warm, and suddenly my whole body felt... too warm. My heart kicked against my chest, pounding so loud I was sure he could hear it.
"You're enjoying the view," he whispered again, this time closer. Too close.
I lifted a shaky hand to my chest, pressing it over my heart, trying to calm the wild rhythm beneath. What is happening to me?
Before I could form a single thought, he gently took my hand—his fingers cool against my skin—and started leading me back toward camp.
We didn't say a word.
And yet everything screamed inside me.
Even after we arrived, he didn't let go. Not until we reached the very edge of the firelight. Then, as if suddenly remembering, he released me.
The warmth of his touch stayed.
I spun around, practically running to the tent, heart thudding like a drum in my chest. I grabbed the nearest water bottle and took a long drink, but the tight feeling in my chest didn't go away.
I sat down hard.
"What just happened?" I whispered aloud.
I pressed my hand against my chest again. Am I having a heart attack? A jungle fever? Something was definitely wrong with me. Or maybe… someone was getting to me.
And I hated how much I didn't hate it.
I didn't move. I just sat there in silence, trying to breathe, to think—to feel normal again.
Then came the voice that pulled me back.
"Emmy!" Amina shouted from outside before ducking into the tent. "It's time for dinner. Come on, girl, let's go!"
I looked up, startled. "Oh… right. Dinner."
She tilted her head. "You okay? You look like you saw a ghost."
"Worse," I muttered under my breath.
She didn't hear me, but she smiled and pulled me to my feet.
"Come on, I need your help distracting Zoe before she eats all the dessert."
I nodded and followed her out… but I could still feel his hand in mine.
And I had a feeling… this was only the beginning.
"I'm coming."
I stepped out of the tent, trying to look casual, even though my heart was still doing gymnastics after… whatever that moment was earlier. I made my way to the table, quietly picking at the food laid out.
"How's your day?" Zack asked from behind me, his voice soft—calm. Too calm.
I flinched slightly but quickly covered it. "Ah... it was good," I replied, glancing at him with a careful smile. I remembered what Amina told me—give him a chance, she said. Let him show you how he feels.
Well, he's showing something, alright. Just not to everyone else.
"Did you enjoy it?" he asked, stepping beside me.
"Yeah," I said, putting some fruit on my plate. "You know I love nature. I love watching them." I forced a smile—friendly, warm, like I didn't remember the things he whispered in the dark.
He picked up some grilled meat and gently placed it on my plate, like a doting boyfriend in a cheesy rom-com. I didn't stop him. I let him play the part.
We sat near my tent. The girls came and sat close too, their presence grounding me. Amina looked at me, eyebrows raised in silent question. I gave her a quick nod. It's okay, I signed back with my eyes. I've got this.
Maggy and Zoe were whisper-fighting about something trivial—probably over who was cuter, Mike or Sam. Their familiar bickering made me smile, even though I felt like I was sitting beside a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Zack chuckled softly beside me. "You seem quiet tonight."
"I'm just tired," I said, "Too much walking, I guess."
He nodded, looking concerned. So convincing.
"You should rest after this. I can handle any evening duties. You've been working hard," he added, so everyone could hear. Such a gentleman.
Amina glanced at him, then at me, like she was starting to pick up on something… off. She didn't say anything, but her eyes lingered on me longer than usual.
I leaned back on my hands and looked up at the night sky. The stars were so bright out here. Peaceful. A contrast to the way my thoughts were racing.
I felt Zack's eyes on me.
I turned to him and smiled.
He smiled back.
But we both knew we weren't talking about dinner anymore.
Zack stood, stretching a little. "I'll go check the perimeter, just to be sure everything's safe," he said, flashing his usual charming smile.
"So responsible," Zoe muttered under her breath.
He walked off into the shadows, a flashlight in hand. Once he was out of sight, I let out a breath I didn't know I'd been holding.
The moment he was gone, the girls turned to me like they'd been waiting all day.
"Okay," Maggy said, crossing her legs and leaning closer. "What is going on with you two?"
"Yeah, you're all weird now," Zoe added, popping a piece of fruit in her mouth. "He's acting like a saint and you're acting like you don't want to bolt every time he's near."
Amina stayed quiet, her eyes locked on me. She knew. She just needed me to say it.
I looked around, making sure no one else was near, then leaned in, speaking low. "He's hiding something."
All three of them went silent.
"I don't know what exactly," I continued, "but… I saw him go into the ruins. Alone. At night. He opened something—some kind of hidden entrance. And he wasn't surprised. It was like he knew it was there."
"What?" Zoe whispered, eyes wide.
"That's not all," I said, voice tight. "There were symbols. Strange ones. And… that night I sleepwalked, he followed me. Erick didn't see, he was getting water. Zack found me and pretended to care, but I remember everything now."
"Everything?" Amina asked, her brows furrowing.
I nodded. "The symbols… he was watching me. Like I was part of his plan. He told Erick to rest and stayed by my side. I woke up, and the symbols were gone. But now… I've started drawing them. Without meaning to."
"Oh my god," Maggy breathed. "So he's not just being creepy—he's planning something."
"And playing all of us," Zoe added. "Especially you."
Amina looked worried. "We need to tell someone. Mr. Sympson?"
"I already did," I said. "This morning. I showed him the symbols, told him everything. He believes me… but we need proof. If Zack's doing something dangerous, we need to find out what."
"Then we'll help," Amina said, placing her hand on mine. "No more pretending."
"We're in this with you," Maggy said.
"Yeah," Zoe added. "Girl power plus jungle conspiracy? Count me in."
I smiled, the first real one all day. "Thanks, guys."
And as we sat there in the quiet jungle, huddled under the stars with our plates half-finished, I felt the shift. Something dark was brewing—and this time, I wouldn't face it alone.
The jungle night had grown heavier, the trees casting deep shadows under the moonlight. A chorus of crickets played softly in the background as the girls huddled closer under the tarp near Emmy's tent.
"We'll take shifts," Maggy whispered. "One of us will always keep an eye on Zack. Just in case."
Amina nodded. "And Emmy, keep drawing those symbols. Every detail you remember. If he's using them for something, maybe Mr. Sympson can decipher it."
Zoe leaned in, her voice hushed but urgent. "And we need to track him if he goes back to the ruins. No more surprises."
"I can plant a tracker," Maggy offered, pulling a tiny chip from her pocket. "I brought a few in case we needed to track wildlife. I say we tag the predator."
The girls exchanged knowing glances. Emmy didn't smile this time. Her jaw was set. "I'm done playing nice."
None of them noticed the figure crouched just behind the thick curtain of leaves at the tree line—Erick.
He'd come looking for Emmy, intending to return the pen she'd dropped earlier. But as he approached, their hushed voices caught his attention.
And then he heard everything.
The ruins.
The symbols.
The sleepwalking.
Zack.
He froze in place, torn between shock and disbelief. Emmy? Zack? A plan?
He took a silent step back, branches crunching softly under his foot.
Zoe's head snapped toward the noise.
"Did you hear that?" she whispered.
Everyone went quiet.
Emmy stood, walking cautiously toward the trees, her flashlight in hand.
"Who's there?" she asked.
But there was no one.
Erick had already slipped away into the shadows, heart racing, mind spinning.
Back at his tent, he sat on the edge of his cot, clutching the pen still in his hand.
What the hell is going on?
And more importantly… why didn't Emmy tell me?
ERICK'S POV
I stood just outside my tent, pretending to fix my boot lace, but really—I was just waiting. Waiting for her.
Amina called out from across the firepit, and Emmy finally stepped out of her tent. She looked... thoughtful, quiet. Still beautiful, even under the dim flicker of the camp lanterns.
I took a breath and started toward her, planning to ask if she was okay—maybe offer her the pen she'd dropped earlier.
But before I could get close, Zack appeared. Like a damn shadow that wouldn't leave. He walked right up to her, all calm charm, and said something I couldn't hear.
And she… she smiled.
Not forced. Not awkward. A real smile. Or maybe I just imagined that part.
Something burned low in my chest. I clenched my jaw and turned away, grabbing a plate and piling food without even looking at what I picked. I sat down where I had the perfect view of them, trying not to watch.
But I was watching.
Zack placed something on her plate. She didn't stop him. Then they sat near her tent—together.
I was chewing on my food like it was rubber when Marvin and Sam flopped down beside me.
"If stares could kill…" Sam leaned in, whispering with a grin, "Zack would be ashes right now."
I didn't look at him. "Shut up."
"What? I'm just saying," he said, lifting his hands in surrender. "You look like you're about to murder someone with a spoon."
"I felt that tension," Marvin added. "Like, seriously. You look like you're two seconds from launching your plate at his head."
They both chuckled.
"Go away," I muttered, shoving Marvin with my elbow and nudging Sam with my plate. "Before I start with you two."
They laughed harder but got the message and left me alone.
I looked back at Emmy and Zack. She was nodding at something he said.
I didn't know what game Zack was playing yet, but I wasn't stupid.
I saw her with the girls earlier—whispering, serious. They were planning something.
And now she's sitting there with him like nothing's wrong?
She knows something.
She knows, and she's not telling me.
ERICK'S POV (continued)
I looked at her again.
And him.
Zack leaned in, saying something low to Emmy. She tilted her head, listening politely. Then Tony and Mike strutted over, wearing those "we're up to no good" grins on their faces.
They slid into the empty seats beside Zack, effectively wedging themselves between him and Emmy.
I smirked.
Real friends.
I couldn't hear what they were saying, but it worked—she laughed. A real one this time. Zack, on the other hand, didn't look amused. His jaw tightened slightly, and he leaned back like someone had just stolen his spotlight.
Tony clapped Zack on the back. "Finally, a good aura came to this side of the table," he joked loud enough for me to hear.
"Shut up," Zack muttered, clearly not enjoying the sudden shift in energy.
Mike looked over at me and then at Emmy, then back to me again. "You like her?"
My eyes widened. "What?"
"Come on," Tony joined in, grinning like a wolf. "You're watching her like she's the last slice of pizza, bro."
"I don't know," I shrugged, trying to play it cool. But I couldn't hide the truth from myself. I saw how her eyes sparkled when she laughed. I felt it every time she talked to me like I wasn't just part of the noise.
I saw peace when I saw her.
"I can't tell," I mumbled. "She's… different."
They exchanged a glance. And before I could blink, Tony and Mike each grabbed one of my arms.
"Let's go."
"Wait, what?" I tried to pull away, but they weren't letting go.
"You're welcome," Mike smirked as they dragged me across the camp.
And then—bam—they pushed me down right beside her.
Emmy turned, surprised. "Hey."
"Hey," I said, clearing my throat and pretending I wasn't melting inside.
Zack gave a stiff smile and got up. "I need to check something," he muttered, walking away without waiting for a response.
I didn't watch him go.
I watched her.
And for a second… just a second… I could've sworn she looked relieved.
The fire crackled in the middle of the circle, casting flickering light on our faces as we all gathered around it. The jungle night was loud with crickets and distant howls, but here in the glow, it felt safe. Warm. Almost normal.
Tony was in the middle of telling one of his famously dumb jungle jokes.
"…So the monkey looks at the snake and says, 'Bro, you slithered into my DMs!'" he finished, grinning proudly.
Everyone groaned and laughed. Mike nearly fell over from laughing too hard, while Zoe shook her head like she was rethinking every life decision that led her here.
"I swear, Tony, that joke was as dry as this protein bar," Amina said, holding up a half-eaten snack.
"It's giving desert vibes," Maggy added, faking a dramatic gag.
"Oh, come on, I deserve a little appreciation for the creativity!" Tony threw a leaf at Amina, who ducked and threw one back.
Laughter filled the air. Even I laughed. It felt good, being surrounded by them, like a real team. Like friends.
Erick sat beside me, quiet but smiling. I could feel the calmness he gave off, even when he wasn't talking. It was comforting in a way that was… new.
"Alright, who's next with a joke?" Mike asked, nudging Zoe.
"I'd rather wrestle a crocodile than follow that up," she said, pointing at Tony.
"Hey, where's Zack?" Erick asked casually, glancing around.
That stopped the laughter like a switch had been flipped.
Everyone paused, glancing at the empty space near the gear pile where Zack usually sat.
I kept my face neutral. "Maybe he's resting. He looked tired earlier."
"Yeah, he's probably just recharging his mysterious energy," Maggy said with a dramatic wave of her fingers.
Tony leaned back, looking around into the dark. "Still weird he didn't even come for food. That dude never skips a meal."
The group moved on quickly, brushing it off with another round of jokes and stories. But a cold twinge settled in my chest. I didn't say anything. I couldn't.
Because I knew something they didn't.
And the more Zack disappeared… the more I wondered what he was really up to in this jungle.
The campfire had burned down to glowing embers, and one by one, everyone had drifted off to their tents. Only the jungle remained wide awake—chirping, rustling, whispering secrets through the trees.
I sat alone just outside my tent, the dim light of my flashlight tucked under my notebook as I scribbled down the symbols.
They danced in my mind like they'd been etched into my memory forever. I drew them one by one, careful and silent. Some twisted like vines, others jagged like lightning. And all of them... felt alive.
"Zack knows them," I wrote next.
"He drew them. On me."
I paused, staring at the ink. The fire's last ember hissed softly in the distance, like it was warning me.
My hand froze.
Something shifted.
A faint movement—barely a whisper—at the edge of my vision.
I looked up.
There, beyond the last glow of the firelight, just past the thick trunk of a tree… a shadow.
It didn't move like an animal. It didn't flinch or flee.
It stood.
Still.
Watching.
My throat tightened. I closed my notebook slowly, trying not to make a sound. My heartbeat pulsed in my ears.
I leaned forward, squinting into the dark.
Gone.
The shadow was gone.
I stood up too fast, the notebook clutched to my chest. I waited—listened—but the jungle returned to its rhythm, like nothing had happened.
But something had.
I knew it.
Someone had been watching me.
And I had a sinking feeling... it wasn't the jungle this time.
I hugged the notebook to my chest and turned quickly, ready to go back to my tent—but collided straight into someone.
"Ack!" I yelped.
"Whoa, it's me—it's just me," a voice said, steadying me.
Erick.
His hands caught my arms before I could stumble. I looked up at him, my heart still pounding—not just from the scare, but from the way he was suddenly so close.
His brows furrowed. "You okay? You look pale."
"I…" I hesitated. Should I tell him? About the shadow? About the symbols?
His gaze dropped to the notebook in my hands. "What were you writing?"
"Just notes," I lied quickly, tucking it behind my back.
He tilted his head. "You sure? You looked like you saw a ghost."
"I—I thought I saw someone. Or something. Over there." I nodded toward the trees.
He looked over my shoulder, squinting into the dark. His hand instinctively brushed the small flashlight clipped to his belt.
"You shouldn't be out here alone," he said. Not in a scolding way. More like… concern.
I swallowed, feeling a weird warmth spread through my chest. "I wasn't planning to be. I just… couldn't sleep."
There was a pause between us, the silence louder than any jungle sound.
Then, softly, he asked, "Was it him?"
I didn't answer right away. I didn't have to. The way his jaw tensed said he already knew.
"I'm fine," I whispered. "But… Erick, be careful, okay?"
He nodded once, slowly. "Always. Especially around him."
He offered his hand, and this time, I didn't hesitate to take it.
As Erick and I stood there in the moonlight, a chill brushed over my skin—not from the night air, but from a feeling. That prickling sense that eyes were on us.
I turned subtly, scanning the tree line.
Nothing.
But in the distance, half-shrouded in shadow, Zack stood behind a tree—just far enough to be missed by anyone not already watching.
He saw us.
He saw everything.
But instead of confronting, Zack stepped back into the darkness, blending into it like smoke. Calm. Calculating.
Erick didn't even flinch. He must have noticed him too… but chose not to react. His eyes were still on me.
Then, his voice lowered, steady and warm.
"Let's stay together tonight," he said softly, as if asking and deciding all at once.
I looked up at him, my fingers still curled around my notebook.
"Okay," I whispered.
Because right now, that strange feeling in my chest—the fear, the confusion, the way Zack had been acting—none of it felt as safe as Erick simply standing there.
He guided me gently toward the tent, his presence a quiet promise between the shadows.
Behind us, the jungle watched.
And somewhere in the trees… Zack smiled.
ZACK'S POV
The jungle is silent here—too silent. Not even the usual buzz of insects or rustle of leaves. Only the soft sound of my boots brushing against the damp earth as I moved deeper into the trees.
Far from camp.
Far from them.
I reached the moss-covered stone hidden behind thick vines and crouched beside it. My fingers traced the faint outline of one of the symbols Emmy had been drawing in her notebook—the same ones that had once marked her skin in sleep.
The markings were older than this jungle. Older than time.
A voice slithered from the shadows behind me.
"She remembers, doesn't she?"
It wasn't fully human.
I didn't look back. "Yes. But she's pretending not to. Clever girl."
The air shifted. Something stepped closer. Its form shimmered in and out of visibility—like a heatwave in the dark. Not quite real. Not quite there.
"And the others?"
"They suspect nothing. Erick watches, but he's too emotional. The rest are distracted."
I stood up and faced the creature—or whatever it was. Its eyes glowed faintly in the dark, like dying embers.
"I need more time," I said. "She's the key. The bond has started, but if she breaks it—if she chooses him—we lose everything."
The creature tilted its head, like it was smiling without a mouth.
"Then make her choose you. The bond must be sealed before the eclipse."
"I know," I whispered. "That's why I'm staying close."
My fingers brushed against the silver pendant hidden under my shirt—an ancient relic, etched with the same symbols Emmy had begun to dream of.
"She's drawn to it," I said. "To me. She just doesn't know why yet."
The creature stepped back into the dark.
"Don't fail us, Zack. Or the jungle won't let you leave this time."
And then it was gone—like it had never been there at all.
I stood there for a moment, the trees closing in again.
I smiled to myself, the cold kind that never reached my eyes.
"She's already chosen," I whispered.
And turned back toward camp.
The next morning, the jungle felt heavier.
Emmy stepped out of her tent into the humid air, the sun barely casting gold streaks through the mist. The usual morning chorus of chirping birds and rustling leaves played in the background, but something about it all felt… hollow. Offbeat. Like a tune slightly out of sync.
She glanced around camp. Everyone was waking up, yawning, stretching, laughing—except for him.
Zack.
He stood near the edge of the clearing, casually helping Marvin sort through gear. He looked normal—too normal. His smile was warm, his tone light, but Emmy felt the chill beneath it, like a polished mirror hiding something cracked behind the glass.
She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to ignore the twist in her stomach. She knew what she saw last night. The symbols. His presence. The whisper in the shadows before she bumped into Erick.
Still… she had to act like nothing changed.
With a practiced breath, she walked up to the table where the others were preparing breakfast. Zack noticed her and smiled—charming, effortless.
"Morning, sunshine," he said, passing her a cup of coffee. "Sleep well?"
She accepted it with a smile of her own, masking the unease tightening her chest. "Yeah," she replied. "Dreamless and peaceful."
A lie. But it flowed easily.
He sat beside her, maybe a little too close, and began talking about the plan for the day—exploring a new trail deeper into the jungle. Emmy nodded, adding comments here and there, playing her part.
But as he talked, her mind wandered.
She remembered the way he stood by her bed. The way the symbols glowed faintly under moonlight. The way he acted like he cared when Erick found them. None of it felt right anymore.
Emmy glanced at her notebook resting in her pack.
She'd written everything. Every symbol she could recall, every feeling, every whisper. And today—if things aligned—she'd find a way to sneak away again. To talk more with Mr. Sympson. To dig deeper.
Because Zack might be smiling now.
But Emmy could feel it in her bones.
Something inside him wasn't smiling back.
Emmy had just finished helping clear the breakfast table when she heard her name called.
"Emmy," Mr. Sympson's voice was calm, but firm. "Can I borrow you for a quick check on the notes we compiled yesterday?"
Emmy met his gaze and nodded, instantly understanding the hidden meaning behind his words. The "notes" weren't about gorilla behavior anymore—they were about symbols, secrets, and things far older than this forest.
Zoe, Maggy, and Amina exchanged brief glances. They knew the plan.
As Emmy followed Mr. Sympson toward the research tent, she noticed Zack standing not far away, fiddling with equipment—but watching. His body was turned, but his eyes weren't.
That's when Erick moved.
"Hey, Zack!" Erick called out, suddenly lively, walking over with exaggerated casualness. "You got a minute?"
Zack turned his head, just slightly, eyes narrowing. "What is it?"
Erick held up a field camera. "This thing's been glitching—thought maybe your genius hands could figure it out. I've seen you tweak this stuff before."
Zack hesitated, glancing briefly toward Emmy and Mr. Sympson.
Erick stepped into his line of sight, blocking it, and grinned. "Come on, man. You love this stuff."
Zack raised an eyebrow but smirked. "Fine. Let me see it."
As the two of them moved toward the equipment table, Emmy slipped quietly into the tent with Mr. Sympson. Inside, the girls were already there, pretending to organize field files and sample jars.
Once the flap closed behind them, the air changed.
Mr. Sympson lowered his voice. "Alright. Last night's plan—we stick to it. Emmy, any new dreams?"
She nodded. "It's like… they're getting stronger. And the symbols—I've started seeing them even when I'm awake."
Zoe leaned in. "We think Zack is more than just hiding something. He might be part of something."
"Or leading it," Amina added, frowning. "And Emmy's involved whether she wants to be or not."
"We need to find the entrance again," Mr. Sympson said. "The one you and Erick saw. But this time, we're going in prepared."
Maggy crossed her arms. "We'll need to distract Zack again when we leave."
"Don't worry," Emmy said. "If he suspects anything, he hasn't shown it yet. I'm keeping up the act."
Outside, Erick laughed loudly at something Zack said, keeping him engaged.
Inside, the team leaned closer.
"The time's coming," Mr. Sympson whispered. "We find out what he's really after. And why it's tied to you, Emmy."
The morning sun barely filtered through the thick canopy as Emmy led the group through the dense underbrush. Each step forward felt heavier than the last—not from exhaustion, but anticipation. The only sound was the crunch of boots on damp leaves and the distant calls of jungle birds.
Emmy stopped just short of the massive moss-covered boulder hidden between towering roots and thick vines.
"This is it," she whispered, turning to the others.
Zoe, Amina, Maggy, Mr. Sympson, and Erick all gathered around, eyes wide. Mr. Sympson adjusted his glasses and leaned closer to the stone's surface.
"You're sure?" he asked, his voice low.
Emmy nodded. "Watch."
She knelt by the stone and pressed her palm against the carvings—symbols that had haunted her dreams and now pulsed faintly in her memory like a long-lost song. She whispered the same words she'd heard Zack say in that strange voice that night. Words that weren't hers… but somehow belonged to her now.
The stone trembled. Slowly, the ground rumbled and parted, revealing the entrance as it had before. A soft, unnatural glow leaked from the hidden chamber below.
Gasps echoed behind her.
"My God," Maggy muttered, "It's real."
"I can't believe this was under our feet this whole time," Zoe added, awestruck.
Emmy stepped aside. "Come on. But stay together. Don't touch anything unless I say so."
They climbed down carefully, the chamber walls closing around them. The inside was massive—circular, carved in ancient stone. The symbols etched into the walls seemed to shimmer in the dim light, glowing faintly as if alive.
Mr. Sympson moved like he was in a trance, his fingers brushing across the runes. "This… this is pre-language. Older than any documented culture in this region."
And then—
"Wow," Zack's voice echoed behind them.
Everyone turned.
He stood just at the chamber's mouth, pretending to catch his breath. "You guys really weren't going to invite me?"
Erick tensed but said nothing.
Zack walked further in, his eyes wide, a smile stretching across his face. "This is incredible. I've never seen anything like this."
He looked right at Emmy. "And you found this? You really are full of surprises."
Emmy forced a small smile. "Guess I got lucky."
Zack laughed softly. "Yeah… lucky."
But behind that charm in his voice, Emmy could feel it—he already knew everything. He had been here before. And now, he was playing the role he wore so well: the amazed explorer, just like them.
She glanced at Erick, who met her eyes briefly, then subtly positioned himself closer to her side.
The others fanned out slowly, taking notes, whispering theories.
Zack wandered to the far wall, gazing up at the symbols—but his expression changed for just a flicker. Reverence turned into something else… hunger.
Emmy saw it.
And she knew.
The act wouldn't last forever.
Mr. Sympson stood in the center of the chamber, his flashlight catching on the glimmering ancient symbols etched into the stone. He turned slowly, taking it all in—the markings, the faint energy in the air, the way the space seemed to hum beneath their feet.
"This," he said, his voice calm but urgent, "changes everything."
The crew looked up from their scattered notes and hushed conversations. Emmy could feel the weight of what was coming.
Mr. Sympson pulled out his radio, raising it to his mouth. "All crew, return to central camp immediately. Repeat—all crew, return to camp. We're initiating a full-scale study."
He turned back to the group inside the ruins, face lit with both excitement and something deeper—something like obsession. "We're extending the expedition. We'll need at least a month to begin uncovering even a fraction of what's here."
Maggy's jaw dropped. "A month?"
"At least," Mr. Sympson replied. "This isn't just some lost shrine. This is a gateway to a forgotten civilization. We'll need all hands on deck—translators, archaeologists, even linguists. I'm contacting the institute immediately."
Zoe looked around the chamber. "And we're staying here? In this jungle?"
"It's not just about staying," Amina said, almost in awe. "It's about being the first to uncover something untouched for centuries."
Erick gave a small nod but kept one eye on Zack, who stood a little off to the side, staring at one of the deeper symbols. His hands were tucked in his pockets, his expression unreadable.
Mr. Sympson clapped his hands. "Everyone, start organizing your notes. Emmy, I want you leading the symbol documentation—you clearly have a connection with this place. Erick, assist her. Maggy and Zoe, begin mapping out the chamber dimensions and structural integrity. Amina, get with Marvin to expand the perimeter and prep the camp for extended stay."
People began moving with a new sense of purpose.
Emmy stepped beside Mr. Sympson. "Are you sure this is a good idea?"
He smiled, eyes gleaming with excitement. "It's not just a good idea. It's the opportunity of a lifetime."
As everyone filtered out to begin preparations, Zack lingered near the far wall, fingers grazing a spiral of symbols that seemed to pulse faintly beneath his touch.
He turned slowly, and caught Emmy watching him.
He smiled.
That same calm, charming smile.
But she didn't smile back.
Something told her this extended stay… was exactly what Zack wanted.
The jungle buzzed with a new kind of energy. Tents were being reinforced, equipment unpacked, and a larger shaded workspace was being constructed near the edge of the ruins. Everyone was busy—no longer just explorers, but researchers on the verge of uncovering history.
Mr. Sympson stood near the campfire, clipboard in hand, barking orders between scribbled notes.
"We'll need satellite connections set up for data transfer, more lighting, backup batteries, and... food," he said, flipping a page and glancing around. His eyes landed on Emmy and Erick who were sorting camera gear.
"You four," he called out, waving at Emmy, Erick, Amina, and Mike. "Town run. We need enough supplies for at least a month—maybe more. Canned goods, rice, dried meats, medical kits, water tablets—everything you can think of."
Mike raised a brow. "You sure they'll sell us that much at once?"
Mr. Sympson shrugged. "Tell them it's for a documentary crew stranded in the jungle. Use charm, cash, whatever works."
Amina crossed her arms. "How far's the town again?"
"About a three-hour hike to where the jeep is parked. From there, you'll drive another two hours to the nearest village," Mr. Sympson said. "Stay overnight if needed. And don't split up."
Emmy stood, brushing off her pants. "Got it. We'll bring back enough to feed a small army."
"Good," Mr. Sympson said, glancing back at the ruins. "And hurry. Something tells me things are going to move fast now."
Zack appeared then, holding a coil of rope and some solar lamps. "Want me to go with them?"
Mr. Sympson hesitated for a second, then shook his head. "No. I need you here, Zack. You're good with ancient architecture, right? I want you inside the chamber, helping me map out the deepest corridor."
Zack gave a small nod, lips pressed tight. "Sure. Whatever you need."
Emmy caught the look in Zack's eyes. He didn't like being left behind.
She gave a casual smile. "We'll bring you back something sweet."
His smile returned—warm, charming, but hollow.
As they packed for the journey, Emmy checked her notebook again. Symbols she had copied down were starting to repeat themselves, forming patterns that tugged at her memory. She slipped the notebook into her pack.
They set off down the trail by late morning, the jungle thick around them. Erick led the way, machete in hand, clearing the path. Amina walked beside Emmy, whispering quietly.
"Do you think Zack suspects anything?"
"I don't know," Emmy murmured. "But I think he didn't want us to leave the ruins."
Mike looked back at them. "Let's just focus on getting food. Then we'll come back and deal with the creepy glowing rocks and secret cult guy."
Erick gave a dry chuckle, but said nothing.
As they disappeared deeper into the trees, Zack stood at the edge of camp, watching them go. His eyes lingered on Emmy for a second too long.
Then he turned back toward the ruins… and smiled.
The Village
The narrow dirt road led them down a winding path, until the thick wall of trees finally gave way to a clearing where the village of Tagua lay nestled between rolling green hills. Small wooden houses with rusted tin roofs dotted the area, and smoke curled from chimneys where women cooked over open fires.
Children ran barefoot, laughing, as goats trotted lazily behind them. Despite its simplicity, the village had a charm—timeless, warm, almost untouched by modernity.
Mike parked the jeep near the small local market, dust trailing behind them. Amina hopped out first, stretching her arms wide. "Civilization," she said, inhaling deeply. "Kind of."
Emmy stepped out next, scanning the area. A few villagers watched them with curious eyes, but none looked unfriendly. A little boy waved. She waved back, smiling.
Erick stayed quiet as he unloaded the list. "Let's split up. Mike, Amina—you two go for the food and water. Emmy and I will handle the medicine, fuel, and hardware."
They nodded and split off in pairs.
Inside the Herbal Shop
Emmy and Erick walked into a small herbal shop filled with dried leaves, roots, and rows of old glass bottles. The air smelled of smoke, sage, and something unfamiliar.
An old woman stood behind the counter, her eyes sharp and knowing.
"We need water purification tablets, bandages, antiseptics, and anything for jungle-related bites," Erick said, placing a list on the counter.
The woman nodded and began gathering things. As she did, her eyes lingered on Emmy.
"You've seen it," the woman said softly, not looking up.
Emmy froze. "Seen what?"
The woman finally looked at her. "The markings. The ones that call from the earth."
Erick turned to her sharply. "What do you mean?"
But the woman only placed a small pouch in Emmy's hand. "For protection," she whispered. "You'll need it."
Before either could speak, she turned her back and shuffled into a back room.
They stood there for a moment in silence.
"Okay, that wasn't weird at all," Erick muttered.
But Emmy pocketed the pouch carefully. Her heart beat a little faster.
Later That Evening – Village Inn
The village's only guesthouse was small, with wooden walls and creaky floors. They had two rooms—Emmy shared with Amina, and Erick with Mike.
After dinner, they gathered around a small table on the porch. The stars were bright above them, and the jungle roared softly in the distance.
Mike tossed a peanut into his mouth. "This place feels like it's hiding something."
Emmy looked around and then leaned closer. "That old woman at the shop. She said something—about the symbols. About them calling from the earth."
Erick frowned. "Weird thing is... I think she knew."
Amina pulled out a folded copy of Emmy's notebook. "If we're right, these symbols match the carvings from the chamber. It's not just decoration. It's a warning... or a ritual."
They all fell quiet.
Then Mike leaned back, arms crossed. "Well, either way, we've got what we came for. Let's get it back before Zack starts digging up secrets we're not ready for."
Emmy glanced toward the jungle again, as a chill ran through her.
Zack was watching that place too.
And he wasn't just looking for answers…
He was preparing for something.