152
‘Come, let me show you some of the wonders of my realm,’ says the Beholder, as the great black door swings slowly shut. ‘It is so rare that I am able to entertain a guest, I would deem it an honour if you would accept my invitation.’
With the only exit from the chamber now sealed off you have no option but to accept, yet his politeness makes you feel uneasy. You are his prisoner, yet he speaks to you as if you were free to leave at any time.