“Uncle, what is happening?” Aladdin cried. The sun was beginning to set as well, and there was no way he’d be back home by nightfall.

From the earth emerged a flat stone, which held a brass ring.

“Now, do as I say,” said the uncle. “Hold the ring in your hand and then lift the stone beneath it, and you will come upon a treasure for you and you only.”

Aladdin’s nervousness eased at the word ‘treasure’. Maybe his uncle really was trying to help him out, after all?

Beneath the stone a staircase descended into the earth.

“At the end of these stairs you will find a door, which then leads to three separate pathways,” the uncle began, “be careful as the walls will be coated with gold. If even just the sleeve of your shirt touches these golden walls, you will die instantly!”

“What?!” Aladdin cried in fear. Was he willing to sacrifice his life for treasure?

The uncle continued. “These pathways will lead you to a garden that takes you upon a path to a lighted lamp. Take out its light, pour out its oil, and bring it to me.”

The uncle then offered Aladdin a ring that was on his finger. “This ring will protect you, as long as you do what I say.”