The sound of rushing water filled Garinor’s ears when the darkness passed and the door was closed. A rich blue sky loomed overhead, and a deep azure river flowed beside him. The water looked so inviting, he wanted to jump right in and swim. Beside the river was a small canoe and oar. It was clear what he needed to do, so he set the canoe into the river and climbed in.
The ride was peaceful and relaxing, which set Garinor’s internal alarm blazing, for this entire labyrinth had been designed with the goal of confusing him. He paddled softly in the water, wondering where the challenge would come from in this location. He had seen some amazing things in this maze. And though he wanted to relax, he knew he needed to remain alert.
But the journey was uneventful. There were no water monsters or tricky currents to navigate. He was simply lolled along the pathway until a short pier came into view. He paddled closer, drew to the edge of the river, and climbed out of the raft.
There he saw a wondrous sight. A young woman in a flowing green gown sat upon a throne carved of wood. The throne, he soon reazlied, appeared to have been grown, not carved, for there was a wholly natural feel to it. A crown of flowers encircled her head and birds fluttered about on her shoulders.
“Greetings, challenger,” she said with a melodic voice that warmed Garinor’s soul. “You have come now to a final choice in the labyrinth and from here you will face your destiny. To your left, the path is fraught with peril and you shall nary survive if you go that way. To your right is another dangerous path, but it will lead to your escape. You could, alternately, give me your stone and I will guide you from this place myself.”
Garinor should take the left path.