surface on our descent. The passage was really a narrow defile with high
walls on either side, impenetrable due to the fact that they were the
foundations of the earth above. It stretched on for a ways, its whole
length commanded by little, turret like stations which stuck out from
the upper wall, in which were stationed groups of archers, and though
they now stood in a solemn, dignified manner, any opposition that
attempted to force a way through would have been decimated. Yet they
stood at attention and made no noise or movement at our passing, instead
being the essence of well disciplined soldiery.

This narrow chasm led onward for about three hundred yards, the walls
stretching upwards in such a fashion that it brought to mind images of
Moses crossing the Red Sea, with great walls of water suspended in air
on either side, ready at any moment to come crashing down upon them,
their lives in the hands of another. So did I then feel, the Canitaur
guards being able to slay me on the slightest whim of fancy that struck
their minds into a sadistic mood. Yet I was not afraid, instead I was
overcome by a feeling of relaxation, where all cares and worries are
given up as frivolous burdens, not necessary and not helpful, being, in
fact, harmful to the mind.

The defile, or narrow passage, led to a great abyss, crossable only by a
drawbridge controlled on the other side, which was at this time lowered
and ready for us to cross, which we did, accompanied by four honor
guards who were dressed in all the pomp and pleasantry known by the
Canitaurs. It was a custom among them to greet newcomers with an honor
guard which escorted them to the body of dignitaries and aristocrats
that would be waiting to welcome them in style. This was done for us,
and we were led into the fortress' great room, which was used for
discussions and debates, via another winding stairway that took us even