After entering Riven, Oliver managed to escape from the claustrophobic dome-shaped object in which he had been enclosed. His eyes immediately locked onto a ravine, supporting a monumental bridge that was dominating the barren landscape. He glanced over his shoulder to see a zinc dagger stuck fast into the mossy rocks of this bizarre, mystical island named Riven. As Oliver’s eyes travelled away from the ravine, he saw a vast expanse of sea, which glistened on the picturesque horizon. As he continued on his hike, he noticed a rusty, bronze staircase, jutting out from the rocks. The smell of dampness hung in the air as he climbed each step. At the top of the narrow staircase, he entered a magnificent gold-coloured temple, full of curiosity. Five pillars were dominating the large area of the regal room. However, it wasn’t welcoming, he felt alone and isolated, not knowing where this quest would lead. He left the room as it was too confusing for him, and he didn’t actually understand its relevance. Back outside he came face-to-face with another man-made structure. This time it was a very sturdy-looking bronze bridge. Nervously, he crossed the bridge only to find a perplexing hallway, constructed of rock and soil. He apprehensively entered it and followed it to another puzzling room. As he quite clearly did not want to become confused by it, he briskly walked past and into the fresh air. Back in the fresh air he took a moment to scan the nearby scenery – though there wasn’t much. He continued his epic journey across and in cable cars, rope bridges and nature reserves until he came to a village. A strange village. The village was deserted apart from a small child who was promptly plucked from the path by an adult. It was as if they were scared of Oliver, or trying to hide something. Oliver didn’t know what to do next, so he got out the book which he had used to get to this eerie island named Riven. He continued to read until he discovered what he had to next, before observing the village. It was built into a cliff and seemed to be hovering over a huge lake. The houses looked like onions made of straw! Oliver stared at one of them pensively and walked straight to the weird-looking door. Suddenly the door opened. Oliver was surprised to see a girl inside. It was Katherine. This was certainly not what Oliver was expecting. Katherine was not isolated or frightened. In fact she was quite the opposite – happy and relaxed, playing with the villagers. Katherine became anxious when she caught sight of Oliver. “I haven’t got a clue who you are but I know you have been sent to rescue me, but I don’t want to go back to the real world - Riven holds the secret to eternal youth. I suggest that you stay to, but I’m not sure you’d want to…” Katherine’s voice trailed off. Oliver initially refused, but after thinking about all the stress and arguments in the real world and comparing it with the life he would have in Riven, he made his decision - “Eternal youth? – I’ll stay in Riven!” By Oliver |
