Crimson tides washed upon the river's shore. A lifeless body lay pushed up onto the loose yellow soil of Green River Valley. Shallow tears ran down faces of those who were initially in shock, but now just stood in disgust. No longer will foolish deceit get the better of once such a peaceful town.
             A week had past since the beginning of spring. The sky was painted the most vivid shade of blue and the sun's gentle warmth soothed every crevice of the valley. Everything serenely danced with the melodic movement of the breeze. Within the hour this tranquility would be broken, for there was to be a great contest held in the center of the forest. Every year, a race is opened to Green River Valley, the reward being the hand of the most beautiful creature in the forest. The creature this year was Arri; she was a gorgeous fox who just happened to be princess of Green River Valley. Not only would the winner of this race win Arri's soft fur and sapphire eyes, but an eventual crown as well.
             Many creatures of the forest placed their bets on a bear by the name of Troy. Troy towered majestically above everything that surrounded him. His brute strength alone doubled that of all the other creatures' combined. Troy was as greatly admired as he was feared.
             A spider monkey named Shamar spent many of his carefree afternoons relaxing in the trees of Green River Valley. He never took part in any community chores or activities for he thought that would be better suited for one of less brainpower. This was one of his many ordinary afternoons until he caught word of the festivities occurring within the center of the forest. Shamar discovered that not only was this a race where strength was required, but perhaps intellect as well. There were many barriers along the raceway that perhaps through some thought could be crossed without as much physical exertion.
             Shamar made his way over to where the race was to begin. On his way, Shamar saw that the...