The Darwin Chronicles, Book One: The Mountain Ranges

"Let's go," Emmett said. They continued up the path. Eventually, a monster greeted them at two crossroads. The monster looked like a cross between a man and a bull.

"Hello, travelers," The monster, a minotaur, said. Its grin was creepy and menacing. Fog floated all around them. "Here is a test on your independence."

"What do we do?" Amy asked.

"One path leads to the lair of the Ciis. The other leads to the Adviser, a wise woman who can provide valuble information, essential information that will ensure that your journey will not fail. How do you proceed?" Emmett opened his mouth to answer, but the minotaur cut him off. "But the catch, young travelers, is that only one may walk each path."

"So one of us must take the path to this 'Adviser', and the other continues to the lair?" Amy asked.

"Correct."

Amy exchanged looks with Emmett. "We both know I'm better with the sword. I think I should go to the Ciis's lair."

"But what if you get hurt?"

"Emmett," She sighed, "You heard him. Only one can go that way. The other has to go get the information."

"But-"

"Fear not, for both paths end at the lair," The beast told them.

"Alright. Fine," Emmett grudgingly agreed. The Minotaur nodded and stepped aside for Emmett, who took the path to the Adviser. Emmett took a quick look at Amy, who, to his surprice, gave him a quick hug. Then she nodded reassuringly at him, and he continued down the misty path.

As Emmett continued walking, the path became more warm. The side of the dirt road started to become dotted with daisies and wild roses, which reminded Emmett of home. He felt quiet safe here, although he knew danger could swoop down at any moment. At the end of the path, next to a cliff, a little squat cottage stood, smoke coming from the chimney.

The Adviser's House

Emmett sucked in a breath and knocked. A little, kind looking old lady answered the door.

"Well, hello, Emmett, dear. Come in."