THE MAYAN RUINS - EXCERPTS

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“Mayans?”

“Yes. They lived in Central America a long time ago. They built huge pyramids, made their own language, and watched the stars. And then their civilization fell apart. No one knows why. There is a lost temple in Belize where it is rumored a powerful artifact is kept. Finn and I have found this temple. However,” he looks a little uncomfortable, “the entrance is too small for men like us to get into.”

Your dreams of Disneyworld are fast fading away.

“So?” George says. “Will you help us? If we get the artifact, your name, Dustin Smith, would go down in history.”

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If you decide to help these men get their artifact, turn to page 32

If you decide to tell these men that you will not cooperate with their thievery, turn to page 56

“I’m ten,” you say.

“Good, Dustin,” Acan says dismissively.

“No, listen,” you say. “I’m ten. I could get rid of the curse for you.”

Acan stares. “You don’t even live here. You would do this…for us?”

“Of course I would! You got me away from those men, didn’t you? They probably would have killed me!”

Acan nods, “Yes, but all those who have tried to rid us of the curse have not lived to tell the tale.”

You gulp, but you’re determined to help the villagers. “Then I guess I’ll be the first.”

Acan grabs you and hugs you. “You are the bravest little boy I have ever met! We will give you anything and everything you will need for this task. We will make you an honorary member of our village, forever. You will always be welcome here. Even if you don’t succeed.”

“Wow, thanks,” you manage.

“I will discuss this with our elders,” Acan says. “Now, Dustin, get some sleep.”

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Turn to page 94

“I’ll stay with you,” you tell Acan. He is the guide after all, and knows more about the rainforest than Finn and George.

After a sparse dinner of canned beans and rice, you settle into Acan’s red nylon tent. Your sleeping bag is thin and sort of scratchy. Outside, the sounds of night insects and frogs are getting louder. You toss and turn, wondering how Acan can possibly sleep in this noise.

“Psst! Dustin,” he says, “are you awake?”

You stop turning. “Yes.”

“What have those men told you about the ruins?”

You think. “It was built by Mayans.”

“Did they tell you it was cursed?”

You sit upright in your sleeping bag. “No. They didn’t say anything about that.”

“The ruins have long been a problem in these parts. Anyone who goes near them is not seen from again.”

“Oh,” you say. You can’t think of anything else.

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Go on to the next page


“Oh my goodness!” She covers her mouth and looks embarrassed. “Who are you and what are you doing out here?”

“I’m Dustin. Dustin Smith.” You tell the man and woman about being kidnapped and getting lost in the jungle. They make sympathetic noises at all the right spots.

Matt points a little to his right. “We’re just off the road, actually. Our jeep is back there. Why don’t we get you to the hotel so you can call your parents? I’m sure everyone is very worried about you.”

You go with Matt and his wife, Melissa. You’re able to have a hot shower, eat some food, and get some rest. Matt is nice enough to let you use his phone to call long distance. You’re able to call your dad and your mom to let them know that you’re safe. Your whole family was worried about you! Even Fido was worried about you!

“I’m glad you’re ok,” your dad says. “But don’t count on going to Disneyworld now!” You think he’s joking…isn’t he?

THE END