Ocean of Marvels

“Listen then, friends to this most improbable tale, which few have had the chance to hear.

“Not too far, yet not too near, beyond the nearest sea that is well known to all seafarers, there are certain straits. These straits, which ancient wayfarers christened “The Pride of the Kingdom,” flow into the ocean. If they ply its waters to the North, navigators will run into a strong obstacle—the Kolgad Stream, which emanates from the region of the Kolgad Kingdom. Only with the help of a strong headwind is it possible to cross the straits, beyond which, after a few hours of sailing, travelers will encounter two inviting islands. Now, many sailors are already well aware that if they manage to make it to one of these islands and follow the current, their ship will find itself on a direct course to the Ocean of Marvels.”

Tired, Gerald paused, during which his listeners, holding their breath, impatiently shifted closer to the sailor. He continued, not without satisfaction.

“I have had the good fortune to spend some time there, friends, and I can never forget the amazing variety of beauty that discloses the Ocean of Marvels to wayfarers.” Exquisite pictures of his experiences were reflected in the seaman’s eyes. Succumbing to a particular inspiration, he slowly enumerated them. “If you only knew how often I recall the vast beds of violets, of scarlet and yellow roses that were woven into a marvelous pattern on the slopes of the alluring Island of Flowers. Or the enchanting, magical oasis on the Desert Island where, after hundreds of miles of the most arduous trekking in sweltering heat, a small, picturesque island amid hot sand, with the most remarkable and diverse plant life is revealed to the exhausted wayfarer. Among tall palm trees, a spring capable of curing any ailment bubbles up right from the ground.  So, notwithstanding the enormous difficulties, many unfortunate people venture there to restore their lost health.

“But most of all, my imagination was struck by statues of huge, stone giants who instill terror in all who dare to tread on their island.  Several eyewitnesses confirm that the statues come alive at night, and woe to anyone who happens to be in their vicinity. Yes my dear friends, the Ocean of Marvels is full of dangers and unpleasant surprises, as well. More than a few hardships and ordeals lie in wait to try the traveler.”