Stuck in Congo

chapter 2

They arrived at Chris's house which was located near Matete a commune in Kinshasa which is one of the oldest and most densely populated, struggling with issues like mismanagement, poverty and inadequate infrastructure. The area's challenges has pushed Chris's to start a foundation for the poor in the area. "Chris what is this dump that you have just brought us in," Kelvin said in disbelief at the state of the house. The house stood tall, it's weathered facade bearing the weight of decades blending seamlessly into the dusty roads of Congo. The worn doors and crumbling brickwork seemed to whisper stories of the past, while the overgrown garden and rusty gate hinted a long forgotten grandeur. But as they stepped inside NK and Kelvin were in shock at what was Infront of them. It seemed like a different world from what they were seeing outside. The interior was jarring juxtaposition of modernity and decay. Exposed walls brick walls were adorned with vibrant street art while chrome and glass furniture stood atop worn wooden beams. The air was thick with energy of a city in perpetual motion. " Wow bro you outdid yourself here," said Nk in surprise at how NYC the place is inside. " Bro Congo is dangerous bro so I am blending in , acting like um poor for the thieves because once they know that um rich it's over for me bro," said Chris sighing. What he didn't know was that they were being watched closely by a car parked across the street, it's tinted windows reflecting the fading light of the day like a dark mirror. The engine was off but the air was thick with the hum idling tension. Two figures sat in the front seat their faces obscured in the shadows. " They have arrived boss," one of them said on the phone as the car drove away.

Chris woke the guys up as they got ready to explore Kinshasa and the Congo jungle. As they stepped out of the car and onto the dusty street, the sounds of Kinshasa assaulted their senses. Car horns blared the vendors called out to passerby and the thrum of music pulsed through the air. Nk and Kelvin took breathes, feeling humidity envelope them like a warm hug.

They drove through Kinshasa yesterday but the city still felt like a puzzle they struggling to solve. Chris nodded at Nk and Kelvin and they set of to the crowded streets.

They wove through the markets dodging vendors and shoppers as they went. Chris led them to a small stall tucked away in a corner, where an old man was selling intricately carved wooden masks. Nk picked one up, feeling the weight in his hand and Chris smiled. " That's a good one from the village of this man's ancestors he said.

After haggling the vendor, they continued on their way, eventually leaving the city behind and heading to the jungle. The air grew thick with scent of vegetation and the sounds of the city gave way for the call of birds and the rustle of leaves.

As they walked the trees grew taller and the pathway narrower, until they were pushing under the bush, vines and thorns snagging at their clothes. Chris led the way, his machete slicing through the vegetation with ease.

Suddenly, he stopped ,his head c****d to one side. He listened and after a moment, he heard it too- the distant rumble of water . Chris grinned and they pushed on with every step. Nk and Kelvin were intrigued in how much Chris knew about the jungle.

They emerged into clearing and Nk and Kelvin caught their breath. A waterfall cascaded down a rocky slope, creating a misty vell that surrounded them like a cool embrace. Nk and Kelvin felt a sense of peace and wash over them and Chris smiled.

" This is one of my favorite places. I have been here multiple times," Chris said

"I don't blame you, the jungle is full of dangers, but it is full of beauty and wonder and with you by our side, we feel like we can face anything that comes our way," Nk said confidently. Little did they know they were being followed by the same guys who were watching them at home. They were carrying AK-47s ready to strike.

Will they survive we shall find out in chapter 3