Chapter 7: The Crystal Labyrinth

Taking a deep breath, I stepped into the maze. The entrance sealed behind me, leaving me surrounded by the reflective crystal walls. Each turn revealed a distorted reflection, each more unsettling than the last.

Whispers filled the air, their origins unclear. "Turn back," one voice urged. "You're not strong enough," another taunted.

But among the discouraging voices, a faint, familiar melody reached my ears - the lullaby that had guided me before. Grasping onto it, I pushed forward, letting the tune lead the way.

Suddenly, a reflection caught my eye. It was Richard, but not the one I knew. This version of him was older, more rugged, with scars marking his face. He looked at me with a mix of longing and despair.

"Elain," he whispered, reaching out. "I've been trapped here for years. I tried to find my way out, but the maze... it changes, adapts."

Shocked, I replied, "But how? We were just separated moments ago."

He shook his head, his eyes filled with sadness. "Time works differently i