Re: YASID - A different deadly maze story

Lee Gleason wrote:

 
The recent YASID about Rogue Moon made me recall another similar
story. It was a short story I read in an anthology, probably in the
late 70s. There was an alien planet with a deadly maze that had
killed a lot of explorers who attempted to navigate it. The story was
about the latest person attempting it. He did well - actually got to
the end and realized the key to survival, but at the last minute, not
thinking through what he had just realized, made a fatal mistake and
was killed. Ring any bells?

Probably not what you are looking for, as it's very different, but has
a similar twist at the end is "The Sixth Palace" by Robert Silverber.

There is a treasure trove of alien artifacts on a planet. Access is
controlled by a powerful robot. Many have tried to impersonate the
owners. The robot will ask a series of questions, and if the person
gets one wrong they are killed. Some sort of sinuous blade emerges from
the robot or something like that.

The protagonist and his partner obtained a small computer with all the
knowledge. The partner attempts entry, but after a series of correct
answers is still killed. The protagonist, in desperation decides to try
anyway. He asks the robot what he must do, and the answer is something
along the lines of demonstrate truth. He then answers every question
with random utterances. He is granted admission.

While gathering some items to take in the first wave, the robot idly
inquires as to why he selected those. He answers something
complimentary about the items. He realizes that he has given a relevant
answer to the question, as the blade begins to emerge.


Brian