The Conundrum

“Now that just makes no sense whatsoever. Did either of you hear that?”

Melody was the first to answer. “Maybe. I’m not sure. It was probably the wind or something. The group is getting too far ahead of us, and Ms. Solecki will be angry if we get too far behind. Come on, Amy, we need to catch up.”

“My sister’s right, Amy. This will be all your fault.” Chided Marjorie.

“Well, you guys can run along like good little puppets, but I’m going down that passageway. Someone said welcome and I’m going to find out who it is. You know, it’s probably that Jimmy Johnson playing one of his stupid pranks. Are you coming with me or not?”

Indecision flickered across the sister’s faces for a moment before Melody replied.

“Okay Amy, where coming. Someone needs to keep you out of trouble.”

The trio turned and cautiously followed the side passage. The walls were moss-covered, and the air reeked with a musty, almost nauseating odor. Light from the main hallway was slowly fading into the shadows. The encroaching blackness was enough to make the intrepid Amy hesitate. The trio was about to head back when they caught sight of a flickering light in the distance. Once again, they heard the voice, slightly stronger this time.

“Welcome, my friends. Don’t be afraid. It has been so long since we’ve had visitors. Please, follow the light.”

Normally, faced with the choice of forging on into the unknown or running back to safety, there would be no hesitation; they would already be racing back to rejoin the group. It was the sound of the mysterious voice that caused the hesitation. It was Mr. Sage’s voice, only younger, more robust. How was that possible? He was leading their group in the other passageway. The conundrum only fueled the girl’s curiosity.

A decision had to be made. From here on, no matter what the choice, there would be no turning back.