With this, those who coveted the map and the legendary treasure it supposedly revealed swarmed in. People from all walks of life arrived, creating a chaotic mix. The previously untouched rainforest, likely never before trod by humans, suddenly became a hub of unprecedented activity.

Even more terrifying, disputes over potential spoils escalated before the location was even found. Clashing ambitions led to irreconcilable conflicts, resulting in fights and bloodshed. The night was filled with chaos; endless screams and roars echoed outside the camp. Terrified, Kayla flung herself into Pete’s arms.

Pete stood tall and composed, his gaze fixed on the distance. His gentle, refined smile remained as he reassured her, "Don't be afraid. It has nothing to do with us." His demeanor remained calm and untainted, like an elegant gentleman unbesmirched by worldly concerns.

Kayla didn't know what came over her. Perhaps it was fear, perhaps her feelings for Pete had reached a peak. She even forgot about Arnold, the man she had once loved deeply. Raising her head, she stood on tiptoe, attempting to kiss him. He avoided her.

"Pete…" Kayla bit her lip, frustrated and disappointed. The rejection stung; she hadn't expected it. He had always been so kind, endlessly tolerant. His deep, focused eyes seemed to hold a special affection for her. Didn't that mean he liked her? Why did he refuse her?

Pete didn't explain. He simply smiled and said, "It's late, Kayla. Go back to your tent and rest. Tomorrow's hike will be tough."

Frustrated, Kayla stomped her foot and ran off. Back in her tent, the distant sounds of fighting continued faintly, though quieter now. She consoled herself, thinking Pete's rejection was simply bad timing. This thought offered some comfort.

A sudden torrential downpour in the middle of the night washed away all traces of the previous chaos. However, the diverse group, filled with mutual distrust and scheming, remained on edge. Human greed was on full display, intertwined with the inherent dangers of the rainforest.

In the following days, the group encountered venomous snakes, swamps, and ferocious beasts. Each mishap claimed more lives. Kayla began to regret coming; it was far too dangerous. The place teemed with snakes, insects, and rodents. Within days, she had over a dozen bites and welts.

The Fuller couple fared even worse. As the supposed "living map," they were tasked with guiding the way. But in truth, they had only glimpsed the map—a bizarre drawing of celestial constellations—and couldn't make sense of it. Pete was using them to divert attention, ensuring no one realized the real map was in his possession.

The journey was grueling. By the tenth day, as they neared the canyon, a violent storm with powerful winds scattered the groups. The Fuller couple vanished. During the chaos, Kayla stayed close to Pete and avoided harm. Others suffered greatly, losing men and struggling to survive.

"Pete…" she muttered.