Up

You decide on the path leading upwards, instinctively preferring a route that

leads you closer to the surface.

The djinn has evidently grown tired of walking, as she abruptly turns into a

swirl of smoke and vanishes into the spout of the lamp in your bag, her voice

sounding in your ears a moment later, "I'll be right here if you need

anything, Master." She puts an emphasis on the word 'anything', and you can

practically hear the flirty grin that must be on her face.

Somewhat relieved that you've been temporarily spared the djinn's temptation, you begin your journey upwards.

The going is slow at first, but soon the upwards sloping cave floor transitions into a stone staircase.

A short time later, you come to an arch, and step into a medium-sized room. The walls and ceiling are all made from stone, and the only way forward is a large, handle-less stone door, which appears to be closed.

In the center of the room is a life-sized, remarkably detailed statue of a woman. The sculptor was obviously quite skilled, and the woman's body as good-looking as Raniyah's, though with a slightly more solid and athletic build.

You gaze at the statue for a few moments before hearing an amused chuckle from your lamp. Shaking your head to clear it, you head for the door, placing your hand against it and pushing.

The door doesn't give an inch, even when you put both hands on it and shove with everything you have.

Gritting your teeth, you step back and begin chanting the words for a spell. As you do, you suddenly hear footsteps behind you, and turning, you see the statue from the middle of the room striding towards you with slow, measured steps.

Just in time, you jump back as she makes a grab for you, then shoot the fireball you'd been preparing at her instead.

The statue woman doesn't even seem to notice your attack, and Raniyah chimes in from your lamp with an amused, "that's a golem. They're immune to magic, Master. Even I can't do anything to her."

Gritting your teeth, you continue backing away from the golem, your attempts to sidestep her constantly stymied. Her expression is completely neutral, blank eyes and no hint of either a frown or a smile on her stone lips.

Soon, you're backed up against the door you recently failed to open. Again, Raniyah chimes in with more late advice, sounding amused. "The door is probably set to stay closed until the golem is defeated."

You consider your options.

You could still try to run, but the golem doesn't really seem to have any delay time in following your movements; she'll probably just stay in front of you no matter where you try to go.

You could also try attacking her. A weapon isn't likely to harm her much, but if you're lucky, tipping her over might work.

Finally, you could always try a wish. You're short on time though, so the risk of messing up on your wording is very high...