Ashley Carter

Ashley is one of the main protagonists in the story and is the leader of the scientific expedition, because of her archeology background. Ashley takes most things very seriously and is slow to find most things funny. She is an excellent leader for the team in many ways because of her attention to detail and ability to listen to the input of others. Ashely falls short in her leader abilities at times because she lacks the ability to read people. This is seen with Linda, the geologist. It is Ben who notices, seemingly right away, that Linda is claustrophobic. It isn't until they have been in the caves for an extended period of time that Ashley realizes Linda's issue with being closed in.

Ashely is a devoted mother and much of her attention is focused on what is best for her son, Jason. She takes the job...