Into the labyrinth

Further into the cave was a long corridor that was supported by cemented walls and ceilings. Equipment was strewn everywhere, as if the men who worked the mines left as quickly as possible. This alarmed the men. Why did the workers leave too quickly? Was it because there was gas leakage? The crew decided to be extremely careful because if they went in further, they might find themselves gasping for air.

Deep underground

The men were now 1,300 feet into their underground journey. An ominous sense came over them when they realized what the heavy iron doors were for. A portion of the mine was connected to the Arctic Ocean, which meant that there were instances of flooding in many areas. There were indications of water levels rising and falling on the walls. Did this pose further danger?