"It wasn't our fault! How could we know it was coming out? Cut off our heads? Do you really think so?"
"Hello. Would you share me a bite of bread?"
Startled, they quickly looked around.
The chief guard stood up in amazement as Demo leaped to his side. "Are you real, sir. This is an experience. I've known none who successfully navigated that maze. Tell me sir, how were you able to do what none has done before you?"
Demo took the proffered loaf, tore off a section, and began to eat.
The guards eagerly awaited his response.
"Athena. She whispered it to me in my sleep. I almost missed it. Mother always told me, wash your ears. She's right, you know. I nearly didn't hear it."
"Ah, sir, and what were the words you nearly didn't hear?"
"Take the rope," is what she said. "An excellent recommendation, excellent."
They sat back in disappointment, glanced at one another and at him.