"Could you not wait for me?" I have found Apollonis resting beside the Sacred Lake. It is not a large lake. I would consider it more of a pond. The water is fresh fed by an ancient underground spring. There is a small stream that they call a river which feeds it. Many migratory birds are here and a few visitors are feeding them. A few of the pilgrims are washing themselves in the water among the lilly pads. On the other side of the lake a lone stately palm sways in the breeze. There are a few other palms scattered in the distance.

"You do not really belive that to be the very palm the god was born under?"

"If not it is a descendant, have you learned nothing from any of my teachings? Wash yourself, cleanse yourself in the purifying waters. Then we can get on with the business of finding some lunch."

It reminds me of an oasis.

As if reading my very thoughts Apollonis says, "It is a man made oasis. They take great care and expense to fullfill the admonition of Apollo." Apollo fullfills there blessings and they prosper. One hand always washes the other. This is the simple truth that the Sacred Lake teaches you. The Sacred Island takes you in and offers a sanctuary. You take care of it and you nurture it. Though it seems barren. Though it seems empty. As long as the care is given and the tribute paid. This land will prosper you, for the golden light of Apollo shines brighter and purer here than anywhere else on the face of the earth. Enemies can meet here and make peace. If they can not do this they perish.