STAR IV

They were well received with food and water, and after sharing their journey with the people at the oasis, they rested. The next day they departed when the sun came out. Although they were not in a hurry, they knew there was no time to lose.

However, when they were least expecting it in the afternoon, a sandstorm began to approach them. Balthazar guided the way, trying to avoid the storm, but it was inevitable. They jumped off the camels and laid down, creating a circle between the animals. They covered their faces completely. The whole scene looked harsh from up here, but as I said, it was inevitable. The elements of nature are a source of balance and wisdom, though human eyes may not always see it. 

They survived, and so did the camels. However, the dizziness and lack of air made it difficult to get back on track. Balthazar, who knew the desert very well, couldn’t guide them anymore. Gaspar’s maps were pretty much destroyed. Only Melchior and his intuition remained optimistic. So they rode the camels and followed Melchior. 

After a couple of days, the effects of dehydration became more evident. Their aspect was no good. But once again, they had to face the unexpected. 

In front of them, a vast silhouette was drawn on the horizon. They asked themselves if it was a mirage. But as they became closer, the silhouette became bigger. It was a palace. And although the Three could feel there was something deceitful about the place, they had no other way. 

Melchior was the first one to get off the camel. He turned back and, looking at his companions in distress, he said:

‘We are always where we are supposed to be. Come on’. And led the way towards the palace’s entrance.