Days pass as we move through the Land of Snakes.

I see more snakes as we move on. None of them are close to the size of the 9 ft serpent. But, I know well that size is rather unimportant to how deadly a snake can be.

My trust in the blue snake rises as it seems to hiss at hostile snakes encroaching on its territory.

It makes sense that dozens of challengers were unable to advance. This path realizes the title of the land of snakes.

On our path, we come upon a man walking back towards us.

His eyes are despondent.

As we cross paths, I ask, "Is something wrong?"

The man looks to me apologetically, "I'm afraid neither of us will be making it to the 3rd temple any time soon.

My brow furrows.

"Why?"

The man breathes deeply with a sigh. "The road's flooded. The snakes are treating it like a swimming pool."

I bite my lip and say, "Thanks."

The man wastes no time leaving, and I'm left with Samantha wondering what to do.

"We should at least confirm his words."

My companion nods, and we continue along the path before finding a dip in elevation.

As the man had said, it was a big pool of water swarming with snakes.

Resigned to the failure of our expedition, we turn back.

"How long do you think the road will stay that way?"

Samantha's question echoes the concern in my mind.

"I don't know. It'll set us back. But, the temple will shelter us. Plus, we're already dead. Right? We've got all the time in the world."

I catch the slightest of smiles on her face and can't help but smirk.

My pursuit of Michael will have to wait.

The temple greets us with the prayers of the monks.

The first time we came through, we learned a little. I decide to do a little research on what I've gotten myself into.

We find our corner to set up camp, and each find our own way to occupy our time.

Samantha has difficulty with relating to the other patrons.

But she's lived in this world longer than me. I trust her judgment.

What I'm interested in is the pilgrimage itself.

A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

I wonder if the monk from before knew I had questions to be answered. But, just as I am about to seek council, he finds me.

"Challenger, I have heard of the obstacle you face. But, the rain was an act of god. There must be more for you to do before progressing to the third temple."

I let a sigh escape me.

"Any idea what that could be?"

The monk smiles a genuine smile.

"Please, you must join me for tea."

A smile cracks the scowl on my face.

"I'd love to."

We move through the corridors of this expansive temple. Statues can be found all over the facility.

"What's with all the statues?"

The man looked at me before leading me to a statue resembling a dragon encircling the sun.

"This is Shenron. A dragon with powers to create and destroy. The statue is the medium by which to commune with this god."

"Hmm," I hum. "Since the meat jelly has the whole temple dedicated to it, does that mean that it's more... I don't know..."

The monk smiles. "The dealings of the gods are intricate. Not every shrine represents the importance or power of its god. I don't know of Shenron's true residence. But, I know that it is no less grand than our god's temple."

I nod my understanding.

"What," I ask, "do you mean by commune with the god?"

The man motions for me to follow him.

An open room of apparently eastern design opens to me.

No chairs can be found. But, a short table rests in the middle of the room. And a small burner with a tea kettle can be located in the corner.

"Please, sit."

I choose a side and watch as he turns the heat on for the kettle.

"About communion," he starts before sitting down. "Communion is a gift of reciprocity. I don't know how long you've been in the world of the dead. But, I'm sure you know the price people want for their services."

"Memories," I mumble.

"Yes. The gods covet memories. And, thus, memories are the price you must pay to commune with the gods."

His words are sensible, "And, what do we get in return?"

The monk returns to the kettle and collects cups and a whisk.

At the table, hot water is poured over a powdered substance and whisked with energy.

The frothing concoction is presented to me while the monk prepares his own.

A moment passes while we sip at the tea.

"What do we get in return?"

The question hangs over us.

"What do you think the gods are?" the host asks of me.

"I- I don't know. I always thought there was supposed to be only one."

"Hmm," he smiles.

"What do you think the gods are?" I return the question.

"There are many more realities than you know. In your world, there can be a single creator. But, the truths blur the lines."

"What truths?" I ask.

"The world of death is the collision point for all realities."

I sit up straighter at his words.

"So, what does that mean?"

"It is good that we share memories of Earth. A mutual understanding can be reached. But, not all relations will be as simple. The gods are real. The first and second temples of the trial stand as a testament to the possibilities."

"Well, I always thought a god was omniscient and omnipotent."

"Yes," the man says. "There are gods with that quality. But, the principle of animism is a reality in the world of the dead. Gods can be strong or weak, kind or cruel, beautiful or hideous—some gods you will prefer over others and commune with them.

"Memories may be treated as a common currency to be spent filling the pit within you. But, to lose yourself without gaining anything is the height of folly."

I am slow with my words, "I understand."

"I'm afraid your tea will cool if you leave it unattended much longer."

Somewhat sheepishly, I take the drink and begin consuming it.

The conversation enlightens me about my circumstances. I had no idea the truth of this world. I'd like to know what else I'm lacking insight on.

I contemplate seeking guidance from the meat jelly god. But I doubt it would be worth talking to it.

I find Samantha at our campsite in the courtyard. She looks up to me from the ground.

"How are you?" I ask.

She smiles sadly. "I'm fine."

I look into her black eyes and can see the lie.

Prejudice exists even after death.

"I learned some interesting info on the world."

My companion's anxiety lessens somewhat as I talk.

She nods along to the gods part. And, thinks for a moment when I speak of multiple realities.

"It would explain why so many odd people came and went from the towns I've been through."

"Do they all speak English?" I ask.

"Yes," she says. "No matter their character, they all communicated like us."

"Wierd."

Just one more question in a world with too many answers.