"If you find that those city folks have already entered the village grounds, just bring your men back—I won't blame you for it," Axel said.

Buzz immediately turned with a dozen armed Patoajo warriors and headed toward the dark, imposing forest behind the village.

Tiana nudged Andrew's arm. "Andy, we should go too."

Andrew did not move but instead smiled at Axel, the village chief. "Chief, would it be possible for us outsiders to tag along and help? Lives are at stake, and it's pitch black out there. We have good equipment and could assist the Patoajo men."

Axel waved his hand dismissively. "Mr. Lloyd, you don't need to be so polite about it. I know you outsiders won't rest until you've seen what's in those mountains for yourselves. Go ahead—with Buzz leading the way, you should be safe enough.

"But remember, strange things happen in those mountains, and there are certain areas you absolutely must not enter. Go there, and you'll end up with no remains left to bury!"

Since