A Group Of Men Go Hiking In The Forest – They’re Shocked By What They Find In Some Mysterious Old Ruins
Across the globe, millions of miles of jungle teem with intriguing animals, captivating plants, and, naturally, age-old mysteries. Each forest, be it tropical or arctic, rainforest or pine, holds its own unique tale.
A secret that, potentially, carries a hefty cost for those who discover it.
1. Luxury Real Estate
“There’s an abundance of high-end properties in Honduras; you just need to know where to find them.”
James’ father-in-law, Hamish, had generously purchased a first-class flight for them to Honduras.
2. Trust Hamish
Despite the light snowfall outside the Philadelphia airport, James and Paul were aware that the temperature would increase significantly as they approached the equator. Paul was already dressed in a tropical shirt and khaki shorts, a choice of attire that had attracted considerable attention at the airport.
Leave it to Hamish to purchase a mansion in one of the globe’s most impoverished nations.
3. The Invite
A German businessman connected to virtually every sector imaginable, except for entertainment (which Hamish referred to as “garish”), was James’ father-in-law. He was a magnate, a titan of industry. A man who openly displayed his substantial net worth.
Still, James felt unable to decline Hamish’s invitation to Honduras. However, he wasn’t going solo; he had brought Paul along for a purpose.
4. Paul
Since their college days as roommates, Paul and James have been inseparable. Paul stood as James’ best man at his wedding. Despite James being a bit of a goofball and somewhat of a slacker, he was well aware of his best friend’s kind heart.
James wasn’t particularly fond of his father-in-law, a sentiment shared by Hamish’s three former wives, but he would tolerate him for Amelia’s sake. He had met her five years prior, and she had become the love of his life.
5. Otherwise
James found himself sitting on the hard plastic seats of the airport, with Paul lightly snoring next to him. His thoughts were consumed by Amelia. His love for her was genuine; he was unaware of her wealth until he had the chance to meet her father and his girlfriend, Natalie.
This journey, if any, was set to demonstrate the contrary.
Hamish hadn’t really said why he wanted James down in Honduras so badly. Not one to say no to the man who had basically paid for his and Amelia’s wedding and first house, James had pretty much dropped everything, took the rest of his time off from work, and went down there.
Hamish hadn’t explicitly stated his reasons for urgently needing James in Honduras. However, considering that Hamish had generously funded both his and Amelia’s wedding and their first home, James felt obliged to comply. He promptly put everything on hold, took the remainder of his leave from work, and headed to Honduras.
It was somewhat surprising that Hamish had a plan. Despite feeling uncomfortable, James was intrigued.
7. Why Not?
“It’s likely something trivial,” Paul suggested, “But why not venture down there? Reside in a luxurious mansion, soak up some sun… disregard the big guy if he utters anything unpleasant. He’s not your superior.”
Simply to prove to Hamish that indeed, James would not always conform and do as he wishes.
8. Last Night
James woke Paul up when the airline announced it was time to board. Paul, rubbing his eyes, caused his already ruddy face to turn even redder.
James felt relieved in first-class, although he was uncomfortable with the fact that he had to use Hamish’s money to pay for the seats.
9. Odd Dreams
Once comfortably seated, James closed his eyes. He and Paul ordered food and drinks when the plane reached cruising altitude. The flight was direct, providing just enough time for James to catch some sleep.
He felt more exhausted than when they had departed.
10. Amelia
“James! Paul!” The sound of his wife’s voice made James feel at ease. The airport was surprisingly warm, giving a hint of the Honduran heat, even in December. James regretted his decision to wear his coat.
Standing beside her was Hamish, a tall and broad figure, his face constantly tinted with a shade of crimson. He didn’t seem very happy.
11. Good Flight?
James watched as Hamish gave Paul a disdainful look, a gesture that Paul casually dismissed. It was no secret to James that Hamish harbored a dislike for his best friend. There was a certain pleasure in seeing Hamish reluctantly extend his hand to Paul, inquiring about his flight.
“How are you lads?” Hamish inquired. James observed the dark circles beneath his eyes and his somewhat pale complexion. “Was the flight pleasant?”
12. Sickness
“Excellent, much appreciated,” James expressed, while Paul signaled his agreement. A shiver ran down his spine as he glanced at his father-in-law. Was the imposing figure unwell? He dismissed the unsettling thought and turned his gaze towards Amelia.
“So, do we get to know the surprise now, or…?” Paul asked in a teasing tone. James noticed a brief flicker of annoyance on Hamish’s face before he responded.
13. Not Yet
“Not yet, not yet,” declared Hamish. He quickly regained his cheerful demeanor, re-establishing his position as the group’s leader. James watched as Hamish straightened up, immediately taking charge of the situation. Hamish no longer appeared ill. He looked… well, he looked like his normal self again.
Before trailing behind Hamish and Amelia to the awaiting car outside, Paul and James shared a look.
14. The House
The house was astounding.
The residence boasted six bedrooms and ten bathrooms, all adorned in a contemporary design. As the group stepped inside, a grand chandelier suspended over the foyer caught their attention. They were warmly welcomed by a cheerful Natalie. She swiftly planted a kiss on Hamish, then turned to inquire about James and Paul’s wellbeing. James couldn’t help but notice that Natalie appeared somewhat fatigued.
15. Good
“We’re doing wonderfully, thank you!” Paul responded, his smile genuine. James had to give him credit; the man was impressively composed.
James found himself unexpectedly filled with resentment. He enjoys this, he thought, making us question his intentions, luring us here under false pretenses. He quickly snapped out of it, not wanting to seem ungrateful.
16. Dinner
James chose Amelia’s room for his stay, while Paul selected a guest room located at the far end of one of the mansion’s numerous cream-hued, sconce-illuminated corridors. An hour later, they convened in the dining room. Paul had swapped his Hawaiian shirt for a polo one. He flashed a grin at James as they prepared to take their seats.
“However, we still have a soft spot for our burgers and fries,” Hamish continued, “So let’s not overdo this, Nat.” Amelia responded with an eye roll.
17. Sick Animals
They dined in silence. James was resolute in his decision not to inquire about the surprise from Hamish. Paul appeared to be taking his cue from him, unwilling to grant the elderly man the pleasure.
James pondered, sick animals don’t eat, so perhaps he’s okay. He was once again taken aback by his own concern. After all, this was his father-in-law, the one who had footed the bill for this entire trip.
18. Resentment
James contemplated his father-in-law as he observed Hamish getting ready to deliver his announcement.
James pondered, sick animals don’t eat, so perhaps he’s okay. He was once again taken aback by his own concern. After all, this was his father-in-law, the one who had footed the bill for this entire trip.
19. Attention
“Listen up,” Hamish announced, “All of you.”
Hamish was in business with Bill, among others, and Fritz was his sibling. Paul, under James’s observant gaze, was keeping a close eye on Hamish.
20. A Hunt
“Boys,” declared Hamish, “We’re embarking on a hunt.”
Hamish was aware that James wasn’t a hunter. Once more, this was about belittling his daughter’s husband.
21. We Can Sell
Perhaps I’m just overthinking, pondered James. Do I truly need to attribute such emotional perceptiveness to Hamish?
“The wilderness, my companion,” responded Hamish, “And Mosquitia is abundant with everything—jaguar, ocelots, tapir, and beyond. Whatever we capture, we can trade.”
22. Punching Bags
James was irritated. Hamish wasn’t in need of the cash; he simply desired to dash off into the wilderness with a gun and his two preferred fools, Bill and Fritz. James and Paul were merely tagging along as their source of amusement and targets of ridicule. It was a method for the elderly men to feel strong.
He sensed Amelia’s worried gaze on him. He returned her look, offering a small, reassuring smile.
23. Tomorrow
“I don’t really hunt,” stated Paul. James acknowledged this with a nod.
“No queries,” stated Hamish, “We depart tomorrow at 6 A.M., precisely.”
24. Not Himself
Later, while alone in the shower, James reflected on the events that unfolded at dinner. He attempted to view the situation impartially, wondering if perhaps he was overreacting.
Moreover, Hamish wasn’t acting like himself. James noticed it, even if he chose not to mention it to his wife.
25. Some Surprise
“I apologize,” Amelia expressed, settling down beside James. “It didn’t turn out as I expected. Quite a surprise, isn’t it?”
“I’m not concerned,” he assured Amelia. They both lay in silence for a while before succumbing to sleep.
26. A White And Gold City
A radiant cityscape, with buildings glistening in white and radiating gold, was ahead. Paul and James, hand-in-hand, made their way towards it, their steps echoing on cobblestones embedded with gold and platinum. Paul’s grip on his hand was uncomfortably tight. Despite the city’s warm, inviting glow, a sense of dread filled James. His instincts warned him of something ominous lurking within the city. Something that wasn’t alive; it was merely waiting.
They ventured deeper. He noticed individuals lying on the stone-paved paths. Could they be penitents? Or perhaps sacrifices? A glimpse of dark fur and gleaming white teeth. Then, nothing but sheer darkness.
27. Getting Ready
James sat up, gasping for air. His head throbbed painfully, reminding him to ask Natalie for some ibuprofen. The fragments of his dream began to fade from his mind, slipping away like water through a sieve.
James dressed in the dark, cursing Hamish and trying not to wake Amelia.
28. Guilt
6. The Unexpected
He heard Natalie and Hamish conversing in soft whispers as he stealthily neared the kitchen.
29. Hushed Voices
“Do you believe this will succeed?” Natalie asked, her voice suggesting that it was a confidential discussion.
James’ eyes grew wide. Hamish went on, “If it doesn’t work out, it’s no big deal. They don’t need to be aware. I’m simply curious to see if it exists.”
30. Crossroads
At that point, James found himself at a juncture. He had the option to emerge from the shadows, stride into the kitchen, and insist that Hamish reveal the truth about their actions.
Thus, James’ opportunity slipped away.
31. Heart Sank
An hour had passed, and it was time to depart.
One could reach La Mosquitia by air or water, and the team planned to fly in before proceeding by boat. As James was handed his backpack and rifle, a wave of nausea washed over him. His heart plummeted as he bid Amelia farewell.
32. Waiting
William “Bill” Heidel and Fritz Biermann were two affluent individuals, primarily due to Hamish. Hamish had established the entire business and included them as an afterthought (presumably to guarantee he had supporters), a favor that James was certain Hamish would never let the two forget.
Upon landing, Fritz and Bill were already there waiting for them.
33. No Reception
Upon exiting the helicopter, James and Paul quickly understood their lack of knowledge about the logistics. They had hastily packed backpacks and rifles, boarded the plane, and placed their trust in Hamish without question. They found themselves without a map, clueless about their location.
Under Hamish’s supervision, he and Paul exchanged greetings with Bill and Fritz. Both of them had attended James’ wedding, but James had only a faint recollection of the men.
34. Point A
Bill Heidel had a short and stout build, in contrast to Fritz’s tall and slender figure. Despite being Hamish’s brother, Fritz bore no resemblance to him. James was acquainted with both of them, and he sensed that Paul might feel out of place. Therefore, he stayed near his friend while Hamish outlined the upcoming steps.
“So, where exactly is Point A?” inquired Paul.
35. A Man With Nothing To Lose
“Close to the riverbed,” Hamish responded tersely, yet that wasn’t the complete truth. James found himself reflecting on the journey once more. It had been so hasty. Merely twelve hours prior, he was on a flight departing from Philadelphia.
Should his and Natalie’s financial situation be dire, he could be a man with nothing left to lose.
36. A Boat Ride
The quintet boarded the boat, steered by a congenial Honduran man who, James surmised, was handsomely compensated to remain inquisitive-free. James and Paul positioned themselves at the boat’s stern, while Hamish, Bill, and Fritz ambled about.
At last, they had reached Point A. The moment had come.
37. Oscar
“Hello!” greeted Oscar, the group’s guide, “How are you?” Each person took turns introducing themselves to him. He appeared friendly and competent, but James couldn’t help but wonder why he was permitting hunting in La Mosquitia.
Hamish grinned. James noticed a cunning undertone in that grin, as if Hamish was displeased with not being the all-knowing leader.
35. A Man With Nothing To Lose
“Close to the riverbed,” Hamish responded tersely, yet that wasn’t the complete truth. James found himself reflecting on the journey once more. It had been so hasty. Merely twelve hours prior, he was on a flight departing from Philadelphia.
Should his and Natalie’s financial situation be dire, he could be a man with nothing left to lose.
36. A Boat Ride
The quintet boarded the boat, steered by a congenial Honduran man who, James surmised, was handsomely compensated to remain inquisitive-free. James and Paul positioned themselves at the boat’s stern, while Hamish, Bill, and Fritz ambled about.
At last, they had reached Point A. The moment had come.
37. Oscar
“Hello!” greeted Oscar, the group’s guide, “How are you?” Each person took turns introducing themselves to him. He appeared friendly and competent, but James couldn’t help but wonder why he was permitting hunting in La Mosquitia.
Hamish grinned. James noticed a cunning undertone in that grin, as if Hamish was displeased with not being the all-knowing leader.
38. Let’s Go
“Fantastic!” exclaimed Hamish, “Delighted to meet you, Oscar. We won’t be bothering you for long, rest assured.”
“Let’s move!” Hamish repeated, as the team ventured into the jungle.
39. The Jungle
La Mosquitia was a stunning wilderness. It was a vibrant mix of marsh, pine savannah, and tropical rainforest, teeming with diversity. James had gleaned from a quick Google search that numerous indigenous communities called this forest home, and he hoped they wouldn’t mind their unexpected visit.
However, with Oscar present, things should be fine. The man didn’t interrogate them, and all had concealed their rifles in their backpacks. James suspected that even if the weapons weren’t hidden, Oscar would remain silent. He pondered over how much the man was earning.
40. Two Things
It became clear to James that two things were apparent within the first hour of hiking.
Furthermore, it was clear that Oscar wouldn’t be with them for long. James and Paul also swiftly noticed that Hamish and his friends were not ready for such intense physical exertion. Specifically, Bill was struggling to catch his breath, and both he and Fritz were soaked in sweat.
41. Dead Weight
So far, the rifles were just a burden, but the journey wasn’t without purpose.
Eventually, the group reached a road.
42. Where Is Carlos?
“Okay,” uttered Oscar. His silence throughout the trip could likely be attributed to his awareness of their illicit activities. The narrow, unpaved trail before them appeared to be a secondary route often utilized by park rangers.
“Don’t fret,” assured Hamish, “You can go ahead. He should be catching up shortly.”
43. Thank You
Yet, Oscar was still unsure.
“Thank you,” James expressed to the guide. Their eyes met, Oscar’s face inscrutable, before the Honduran pivoted and confidently walked back into the forest.
44. I Have A Map
Once the guide had completely disappeared, Hamish moved ahead. While Bill and Fritz trailed behind him, James and Paul chose not to.
“I possess a map,” Hamish responded nonchalantly. “I’m capable of following directions.” James experienced a surge of irritation mixed with his discomfort.
45. Why Are We Here?
Paul whispered something so softly that James could hardly catch it. “What?” James inquired. All eyes in the group turned to Paul. He was perspiring, his red hair wet with sweat, yet his blue eyes were intensely serious – an unusual sight for him.
“You claim it’s a hunting expedition, yet we haven’t hunted. You assert we’re on an adventure, but we’ve done no exploration. What’s the real purpose of our presence here?”
46. Keep Moving
James chimed in, “You claim we’re here to hunt, but we both understand that’s not the truth. I’m with Paul on this. What’s our real purpose here?”
“Let’s continue on,” Fritz suggested. Hamish agreed, yet James remained unmoved.
47. Us Or You?
“Why are we here?” James echoed, “Reveal the reason, or we won’t proceed any further.” His heart was racing. His father-in-law had led him deep into the jungle, where he and Paul were outnumbered. He found himself wondering, somewhat absentmindedly, about the distance of their guide.
“Are we talking about us or you?” Paul asked further, “I was under the impression we were here to handle rifles, not embark on some peculiar journey.”
48. We’re Close
Now fully facing Paul and James, Hamish’s voice took on an acidic tone. “Do you genuinely believe everything is handed to you on a silver platter? Why must you always have a solution for everything? I’ve welcomed you into my home, covered your travel expenses, provided for your needs, and yet, it’s still not enough,” he said.
Furthermore, I’m aware we’re near. Please, hör auf mit mir zu reden. Be quiet.”
49. You’ll See
“What is it?” asked Paul. James admired his friend’s courage.
“Just wait and see,” he responded, then continued his journey into the jungle.
50. A Choice To Make
James and Paul were at a crossroads. They had the option to trail Hamish into the dense forest or attempt to navigate their way back. It was likely that Oscar had already left, and both men were without a map. Hamish had ensured this.
“Why are we necessary?” Paul questioned, “The trio could have proceeded on their own…yet they decided to include us. What’s the reason?”
51. Much Further
“And more importantly,” James continued, “Why the deception?”
James believed that Bill would be the first one to break. The hefty man was trudging along, his breath quick and rough. He wasn’t likely to go much further.
52. Through The Hole
What is their need for us? This query from Paul echoed in James’ mind as the team advanced into the forest. At this point, they were drained. The intense heat had sapped their energy, and without a trail to guide them, their progress was sluggish and strenuous.
Thus, James was the first to witness Fritz falling through the hole.
53. The Fall
The occurrence was abrupt.
The silence was shattered by Fritz’s fall. One moment, the tall, thin man was present, and the next he was gone.
54. Are You Alright?
“Good heavens!” exclaimed James, recoiling into Paul. Directly before him was a menacing void, uncomfortably close. From within, he could discern Fritz’s agonized groans, interspersed with what sounded like a string of German expletives.
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55. We Have To Go
The two individuals conversed in German, back and forth. Paul’s eyes widened, sharing a somber glance with James. Meanwhile, Bill was gazing into the hole, seemingly entranced.
Paul was the first to respond, “What? We need to rescue him, Hamish.”
56. Just Darkness
James concurred. He started searching for a branch, something to aid in pulling Fritz up. Hamish, however, was of no help. He was engrossed in his map, mumbling to himself. “Hey!” James shouted down to Fritz, “What’s down there?”
“Alright,” James responded, “We’ll attempt to hoist you up.” As he frantically looked for something, anything that could assist the man, a pang of fear struck him. One more step, and he would be in the pit, shrouded in darkness and solitude.
57. Footholds
“I can find footholds,” Fritz stated, “I’m capable of climbing, but I’ll require assistance.”
“What? We can’t just abandon you down there.”
58. Losing Daylight
“I’ll manage,” Fritz assured, “Leave now, before we run out of more daylight.”
Confused, James and Paul trailed behind Hamish and Bill as they ventured deeper into the jungle.
59. Cobblestones
A hundred yards further, the men reached their destination. Bill was the first to spot it, enthusiastically pointing down at his feet.
Hamish started running before he could utter a word.
60. Lost City
The man was large, yet his movements were swift. James noticed the extensive notes he’d made on his map (fortunately), which he practically discarded as he charged directly into an open space. A massive colosseum was standing there, accompanied by several smaller buildings nearby.
A lost city had been discovered by them.
61. Monkey God
James was familiar with tales of lost cities, yet he never imagined he’d stumble upon one. Could this be what Hamish had been seeking? This hidden metropolis? What was his motive? The gold-laden cobblestones were too hefty to retrieve. What could the value of this find possibly be?
“God of Monkeys.”
62. Bill’s Hand
Before anyone had the chance to challenge that peculiar remark, Bill started to yell.
“Fool!” exclaimed Hamish, “Don’t interfere with anything until we’re inside!” James peered into the open cistern. It was filled with murky, dark water and something else. Something dark that moved swiftly, stubbornly holding onto Bill’s hand.
63. Injured
“I didn’t provoke it! It just emerged from the water and seized me!” Bill was struggling to maintain his composure. James was unable to discern what was in the water due to its dark, murky nature. He and Paul managed to pull Bill away from the cistern. His hand was terribly inflamed and red, riddled with tiny abrasions and cuts.
He had entered the colosseum, with the door echoing a clang behind him.
64. The Colosseum
Paul and James left Bill behind and sprinted towards the noisy door. Above it, a grotesque and garish statue resembling a distorted chimpanzee or gorilla loomed. James, once more, suppressed memories of his dreams from the previous night.
He faced the men and flashed a smile, “It’s time.”
65. The Revelation
“You noticed it at the airport,” Hamish pointed out to James, “And you could have as well, even though you’re not as observant.” Paul didn’t respond to the subtle insult. He appeared somewhat queasy.
“A friend of mine, who was in a similar situation, told me about this city.”
66. Announcement
“No, I won’t reveal his identity. He arrived here, at this location, utilizing his personal technology and a map he created. He provided this place with what it desired, and now, he’s more successful than ever. He’s a thirty-year-old trapped in an elderly man’s body, and he’s never been wealthier.
James and Paul exchanged glances, then broke into fits of laughter.
67. Broken Curse
For an extended period, Hamish had exerted dominance over James. He had managed to instill fear in his son-in-law, but that spell was shattered immediately with that declaration. James gazed at him, an overweight elderly man clamoring for the recognition of a fictitious god, and chuckled. He found himself unable to cease his laughter.
“No, not talk,” Hamish stated. He anxiously scanned the room, as if anticipating a signal.
68. Only You
James glanced downwards, attempting to regain his composure. He noticed a gaudy statue of a creature resembling a monkey, its teeth exposed in a grimace. The figure lacked a neck or torso, but James still nudged it away, seeking to put some space between himself and the repulsive stone.
“Not you, indeed, you must directly converse with some olden god for wealth.”
69. Waste of Time
“Believe it or not,” Hamish stated, his attention still diverted as he searched for what he had come to find.
“Hand over the map,” Paul told Hamish. “We’re departing. This was a pointless endeavor.”
70. It’s Here
Hamish was completely distracted when Paul retrieved the map from his vest pocket. “Best of luck with your Monkey God,” he said to him. Then, he and James proceeded to exit the colosseum.
A thunderous rumbling, akin to a landslide of boulders threatening to engulf the decrepit structure. “It’s here!” exclaimed Hamish. At this point, the whole building was trembling and quaking.
71. Pre-Colombian
James turned to Paul. “Run,” he commanded. The reason for their flight was unclear to him, but he was certain they needed to flee. The structure they were in appeared to be thousands of years old, possibly even pre-Columbian. Given its age, it was on the brink of crumbling, particularly with Hamish’s loud shouts echoing within.
“Just leave!” James cast a final glance at Hamish, who was gazing at the colosseum’s ceiling, before he dashed out of the structure.
72. Run
As he was leaving, James observed the monkey head he had accidentally kicked. It seemed to be glaring at him. Even though he was uncertain about the unfolding events, he was sure he needed to distance himself from this place. The trees were trembling, giving the impression that a massive entity was approaching from the north.
James and Paul continued to run until they were at a distance where the crashing noise was no longer audible.
73. Back
Paul and James, with the help of the map, finally managed to find their way back to the road. Oscar was there, waiting for them. His face showed worry, and he continually glanced towards the jungle they had just emerged from.
He simply guided them back to their drop-off location, where they all sat in quiet anticipation.
74. Returning
“What’s the situation with Bill and Fritz?” Paul inquired of James in a hushed tone during their boat journey back. By this time, the outside was completely shrouded in darkness.
He was filled with dread at the thought of going home, knowing he would have to explain everything to Amelia. How could he possibly tell her? That her father had been taken over by some absurd monkey god concept? He regretted ever setting foot in Honduras, let alone agreeing to the sham of a “hunting trip.” As he and Paul approached the door, it was swung open by a smiling Amelia.
75. Winking
She appeared relieved rather than upset to see them without her father. “Hi, guys!” She greeted, “I was really concerned about you, but Dad was confident you’d return soon.”
It seemed as if it was also winking.
