The past several weeks had been full of unexpected events
in Showay’s Life. First, he received an unexpected monetary gift which, as was
explained to him by Aurora, could be used in two ways. Either to maintain the
"status quo" or to take a step beyond the line that had been drawn on the
ground to ensure his success remained "out of reach".
"They tell you, you can’t cross that line," explained
Aurora, "for they know that if you did, your hat would surely land in the ring
of the Divine". The imagery that accompanied her words reminded Showay of an
amusement park and the many games which required players to toss rings unto
bottles to win prizes.
"You will not be disqualified if you cross it", she
continued. "The time is at hand to consider whether you are ready to step past
this line to ensure your success."
Showay was certainly surprised to hear that crossing the
line was not only acceptable but also necessary to fulfill his journey. He had
been fooled into thinking he had to succeed from behind this line and that
penalty or disqualification would surely follow from crossing it. After a few
minutes of contemplation and readjustment, Showay took the first step past the
line.
No sooner had he made the choice, things began to turn for
the worse. Without apparent reason, his health began to decline and he found
himself incapable of drinking the well water on the property. Researching the
symptoms he was experiencing, he came to the conclusion that his problem was
related to some kind of radioactive poisoning.
"Radioactive contamination", clarified Aurora, "not
poisoning."
Her words were received by a troubled Showay with a sigh of
relief. Poisoning would have meant certain death.
"It is time to stop enduring the play of death…", she
continued, "you know you have overstayed your stay in this area."
Showay felt the immediacy in her words and decided it was
time to take the next step toward success.
"Go only a few hours to the north", she guided. "You can’t
withstand a longer journey in your condition."
"A short journey", repeated Showay strengthened from knowing
he would not have to travail for days on the road. "I can do that. Just a few
hours…"
Without delay he began preparation.