As the ship is about to set sail, Trudii stands up and waves precariously. This is the last straw as everyone just loses control of themselves. The cries, wails, and flailing of hands are a sight to behold. On board the ship, the atmosphere is somber. The clergy do their best to console their young ward.
On the third day, as they journey across a calm sea, the waves suddenly break open to reveal Neptune in a chariot drawn by six sea horses and surrounded by a retinue of strange creatures.
“What authority permits you to invade my domain?”
“O precious king, this young lover is being sent to Hades to retrieve the golden sword from Medusa.”
“A daunting task. He may never make it. I’ll send Drakon the sea monster to accompany him.”
“You’re too kind, Lord Neptune. We can never repay you.”
With that, Neptune raises his arms and shouts, “Drakon, hear the voice of your Lord and come to your Master.”
Within minutes, they beheld a ferocious creature of some thirty feet. It roars out of the water and flies around the seafarers. With an opened mouth, it releases a ball of fire to signal its arrival and then settles beside Neptune’s chariot.
“You called, my lord?”
“Yes, I’ve got a task for you. This young lover has been ordered to retrieve the golden sword from Medusa in the underworld. Can you help him?”
“I’d love to.”
Neptune now turns to Trudii with a warning. “Remember, young man, do not look directly at Medusa otherwise you’ll turn into a pillar of stone. Use the shield to see her. I’ll see you all on your return journey.”
With that, the ocean opens and Lord Neptune and his entourage disappear. As the little trio continues their journey, now accompanied by this terrifying creature, at least they know they are safe from attacks from man or beast. Oddly enough, Drakon turns out to be a blessing in disguise. He’s full of conversation and of a light disposition. Another day’s journey and they reach the island, where they find the cave. The priestess says, “We’ll rest the night. In the morning Drakon and you will travel to the underworld, but remember you must face Medusa on your own.” Trudii turns white at the thought.
They light a fire and make themselves a hearty meal, cooking the fish they have caught. After dinner, everyone sits around the campfire and sings to the accompaniment of lutes the clerics brought along.
Then Drakon asks if he can sing a few sea shanties. Everyone is delighted at the prospect. He starts with the voice of a foghorn! To hear him attack the high notes is a treat not to be missed. The little trio just sits and howls and then joins in. This tomfoolery carries on till their fire burns out, then everyone retires for the night. Ophelia the priestess, sensing Trudii’s apprehension, lies beside him and puts her arm around his waist. The next morning after a light breakfast everyone stands at the entrance of the cave. David the priest grabs Trudii and says, “Remember, under no circumstances look directly at Medusa, just through your shield, or you’re finished.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll look after Trudii,” cries Drakon, and off they go.
