Chapter 2: The Swollen River
The team stood at the edge of the swollen river, the water churning and foaming as it rushed downstream. Maria's eyes scanned the riverbank, searching for a safe way to cross.
"We need to find a way across," Jake said, his voice laced with concern. "The river's rising fast."
Kanaq nodded, his eyes fixed on the water. "There's a shallow point upstream. We can try to cross there."
Maria nodded, her mind racing with the risks. "Let's move. We don't have much time."
The team followed Kanaq upstream, their hearts pounding in their chests. The river was treacherous, and one misstep could be disastrous.
As they reached the shallow point, Maria's eyes widened in alarm. The water was deeper than she had expected, and the current was strong.
"We need to be careful," she warned. "The current's strong, and the water's cold."
Jake nodded, his eyes locked on the river. "I'll go first. If it's safe, I'll signal for you to follow."
Maria watched as Jake waded into the river, the water swirling around his legs. He took a few tentative steps forward, then turned to signal for the others to follow.
As Maria stepped into the river, the icy water enveloped her legs. She gasped, her heart racing with the shock. The current was stronger than she had expected, and she stumbled, her foot slipping on a submerged rock.
Kanaq caught her arm, steadying her. "Careful, Maria," he warned. "The river's treacherous."
Maria nodded, her eyes locked on the riverbank ahead. They were halfway across, and the current was growing stronger by the minute.
Suddenly, a loud rumble echoed through the jungle, making the ground shake beneath their feet. The team froze, their eyes locked on the river.
"What was that?" Dr. Patel asked, her voice trembling.
Maria's eyes narrowed. "I don't know, but we need to get to the other side. Now."
The team quickened their pace, their hearts pounding in their chests. They were almost across, but the river was growing more treacherous by the minute.
As they reached the riverbank, Maria felt a sense of relief wash over her. They had made it across, but the jungle was full of secrets, and they were just beginning to uncover them.