The small research boat propelled closer towards the center of the swamp. The musty scent grew stronger as the boat slowed.
"Why are we stopping?!" Mr. Kirk yelled over the sound of bugs buzzing and frogs croaking.
"Sir," replied the messenger, Charles who is Mr. Kirk's friend,"one of our lookout men has spotted a strange temple off to our left. The boatmaster is awaiting further instruction."
"Well take us in closer," Mr. Kirk's curious tone gave his intentions away.
"Sir, you can't possibly be thinking about exploring this strange temple without permission from the government. It has been rumoured-"
"I don't care if it has been rumoured that this whole blasted swamp is about to explode! I want to see this Charles!" Mr Kirk calmed down a bit. "Charles... we cannot pass up an opportunity to find treasure, even if it means aborting our mission. We all know how much the United States government needs money."
Charles the messenger replies,"I know we are in debt sir, but ask yourself, are you willing to risk the lives of your crew?"
Mr. Kirk stops for a moment, walks to the railing of the boat where drops of disgusting water are flying up from the swamp, and he watches the passing scenery of vines and trees and the occasional crocodile move slower and slower until it comes to a complete stop. He answers," Yes. I am."
"I will carry your message sir."
"Thank you Charles."
~~~
A few minutes later the boat arrived at the temple.
"We have arrived at the temple sir," Charles informed Mr. Kirk.
"Indeed. Everyone, move out. Let's check out this place."
The temple was on a large island blanketed in moss and vines. Behind the temple was an extensive, unappealing forest that continued as far as ones eyes could see, and was writhing with snakes and other strange wildlife. The temple itself though was what Mr. Kirk found most intriguing. It was so unnaturally massive that it seemed immpossible that humans could have built it. Also though, like an ancient artifact, it appeared and was extremely old. Other than being covered in dust and crisscrossed with vines the temple was crumbling apart, completely at the mercy of time, as any man-made structure is.
"Sir!" Charles called out. "We have detected a massive storm coming from the southeast! We have to somehow get out of the way!"
"How big is it Charles?" Mr. Kirk asked.
"Look at this radar." Charles held the laptop out in front of Mr. Kirk. It was the biggest storm he had ever seen and it was approaching extremely fast. "See sir! We have to get out of here!"
Mr. Kirk heard the murmurs of the group gathered around the screen as he thought for a moment. "No. It is coming to fast." Kirk's reply was firm. "We have no choice now. We must seek refuge in the temple."
~~~
The 14 crew members followed by Mr. Kirk ran towards the temple and managed to haul open the ancient, cracked stone door.
"I'll hold it open sir," said a man, "but it is heavy so we will need to find something to hold it quick."
"Charles," ordered Mr. Kirk. "Find a rock or something to hold open the door in this dark place."
"Yes sir!"
It was completely dark inside the temple except for a smidgen of light that was coming from the partially opened door.
