The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter XVIII - The Beginning of a New Quest

Apoy Lagas congratulated Juan and his four friends for their success in regaining the Statue of Kalungsuran for the Lungsod of Bulawanongsirak. The five youngsters were very happy too not because the people somehow recognized their effrots but because they were able to do something for the sake of their komunidad.

"Juan bantugan," Apoy Lagas said, "your name will surely be remembered just like what it truly means - bantugan, famous!"

Juan smiled shyly but deep within his joy was overwhelming.

"I just hope that this victory won't make your head grow so big," the old sage asid smiling. "Because as I have said before, the Statue is not the end, it is just a means."

Juan looked up to the sage.

"The most important thing to achieve is the Chest of Kahimyangan."

Juan said, "Does it mean we have to make another journey? A different quest?"

Apoy Lagas nodded.

"Yes, Juan, yes," he said. Because in this life we are always journeying, we are always on a pilgrimage. We cannot stop because the moment we do, we'll die. Only the dead stops journeying. While alive, people make quests. We cannot stop, we cannot be content with what we have been provided for. It would be a great insult to the Great Makagarahum, who until this very moment does his great work, if we will stop journeying. It may not be a journey of a thousand miles, but still we have to make a move.

"Being the pinili you are especially tasked to continue journeying. Your next quest will be the Quest for the Chest of Kahimyangan and along the way you will surely find so many challenges but as you have already overcome many challenges while seeking for the Statue of Kalungsuran, you will surely be able to voercome other challenges along your new journey."

"Oh yes, Apoy," Juan proudly answered. "I can do everything because the Great Makagarahum is with me and also I have you as a guide and my friends as partners in every endeavor."

Apoy Lagas smiled.

"Great remark, son," he said. "You will surely emerge victorious in whatever endeavor you undertake ebcause you know how to acknowledge the fact that your success was made possible because of others and not only through your own efforts."

As they continued discussing the next quest, the sun slowly receded to give way to the night. As the twilight sky exuded a wonderful view, Juan thought about the exciting new adventure that his friends will surely dare not to miss!