There are stone paths, windswept and fractured,

hidden in the desert sand.

Walk upon them and hear

the echo of ancient footsteps

Paths marked at their start by guardian pillars-

lion heads and bodies weathered smooth;

paws and teeth, fierce and warning;

eyes, all-seeing, wise, and unmoving

What do they guard and how do I pass?

Step forward- they watch.

Step again- hear a growl

low and deep like a waterfall's plunge.

Step once more- hear the breaking rock crumble;

see their hind legs move

and life flow through stone

Voices of thunder and earthquakes-

"Turn back adventurer. You are young and brave.

Do not squander such precious gifts," says the first.

"Turn back unwitting one. Only grim trials await," warns the second.

"Or continue on to lands unknown and adventures plenty.

Expect not to return, wanting to or not," say both

Onward I go