The Long Hallway
Continuing down the dim hallway, you reach out to the walls on either
side to help guide your steps. Like the floor, the walls are cool and
smooth to the touch. The sound of gently lapping water increases in
volume very gently as you reach the end of the hallway. A small sconce
on the wall illuminates the cove with a faint glow. There is an
opening on your right as the hallway appears to continue on, down a
wide, gently downward sloping staircase. Timidly, you turn back over
your shoulder to view the length of the hallway you have just
traveled.
Resolving yourself to go on, you inhale deeply and step down onto the
first step. The stairs appear to shimmer and waver just a bit, but you
don't feel any difference. The second step is just as solid as the
first. However, in the dim light coming from the entryway behind you,
tiny flecks of color shimmer back at you from the stairs and walls.
Smiling you wonder if the specks are colored scales. A third step
produces the same visual wavering in the appearance of the staircase,
but your footing feels solid as ever.
You continue on, and reach the bottom, the walls open out into a
large, dim room. The only light emanating from a large, deep blue pool
in the center of the room.
Choosing to continue down the hallway, instead of either door, you
faintly recognize the sound of water in the distance. The marble floor
feels cool to your feet, and the air filters around softly and with a
light, fresh sense. You would almost liken that sensation to walking
in a forest after a storm.
