“Yes,” the old hermit replied, “I know of the legend of the
Snake of the World and his treasure.” He looks at you skeptically
and continues, “However, are you certain you would seek that which
others have failed to find--others who have never returned?”
After a silence, the old man sighs, and continues: “The Snake
surrounds all. When you look at his body you see eternity, and to
see one part is to see the whole. The treasure you seek is the
Snake’s knowledge, and it will give you power and true wealth.”
“However, to find this treasure you will have to undergo trials
and tests. It is a journey that may never end. You may be lost in
the eternity of the Snake. Beware.”
The old hermit grins, closes his eyes, and bows his head as if
remembering something from a distant youth.
“Who knows if these legends are true, as the wise are silent and
the fools never return, but this is what I have heard… At the
start, begin low and humble like a serpent. Then enter the Path
near the gate of Endless Night. You must see with the eternal Eye
of the Snake if you will seek his treasure. You will stand beside
the Snake, spot his prey, reach up, and snatch it from his jaws.
Once you have seen through the Eye of the Snake, do not follow his
gaze blindly, or you may be led astray. You will cheat and trick
time itself. You must climb the ladders out of the paths of eternal
hell, and listen to the Voice of the Snake itself whispering in
your ear. He will send you to the abyss; for to reach the knowledge
of the eternal you must see the underworld as heaven, and death as
life.
"Then, when you have come from darkness to light, you will attain
the knowledge of the Snake of the World.”
The old man falls silent, and looking up, he points to the path
before you.
Those who reveal any of the secrets of the Snake in their logs
will be cursed forevermore!