..."Which path do you seek? The easy one or the way that will challenge all you believe?"
The voice appeared from nowhere. What was strange is Lucinda and Jaygon heard it simultaneously. What was this bellowing that was in their ears?
"The choice is up to you. Choose!"
Both of them were puzzled by this. Lucinda asked the Lumites, "Do you know who that was?"
Bright smiles showed up on their faces and their giggling became louder. Like when you know what's wrapped in a box and you don't want to tell what's inside.
Jaygon saw a figure through the frozen wall. It smiled at him and morphed through the ice. A sea foam colored creature with a staff of seaweed in its hand.
"My name is Algaeus. I've been sent to help you find Lucinda. She is the key to everything."
Jaygon pleaded, "Please, tell me how!"
"She doesn't know who she really is. It's up to you to show her."
"Why?"
"Because you are part of the key too."
"Key?" Jaygon was confused. "To what?"
"To our world of hope that has become despair. Did you wonder why you were brought back Jaygon? Why Leviathian couldn't destroy you completely? Why you fell in love with Lucinda? It is all part of the plan."
"So...my whole life has been a 'plan'?" Jaygon snorted.
"Yes, my boy. And now it's time to know why and how."
If the aquatic creature didn't seem so friendly Jaygon would've left him in the dust. But a peace overcame him. In this dark, dank place with lava, ice, and death there was 'peace'?
When Algaeus wrapped his arms around him a surge of electricity shot through his bones energizing him and restoring his faith. "Everything's going to work out. I know it now."
Suddenly, a table emerged from water. When Algaeus pointed his staff, the ground grew legs and a base. The seawater that spun around glowed and a chalice and a platter with roast beef, mashed potatoes, and apples with cheese materialized.
"Go on, it's safe to eat," the sea being quoted.
The taste in Jaygon's mouth was tantalizing. Imagine an apple so fresh and sweet that your insides' rejoiced. Every bite of food rejuvenated his spirit. It was as if the gods aligned and everything was perfect.
How strange, considering where he was. Hot lava and ice paired together. And sitting with a fish man at a dining table with treats hovering over it. Not a typical day indeed!
What else awaited them as they embarked on their journey?...
