In my opinion, the scene when Santiago talks to King Melchizedek is one of the most important passages in the story. King Melchizedek says, "Treasure is uncovered by the force of flowing water, and is buried by the same currents."(Coelho 24) This explains that the path to the treasure has been lain out for you and you just have to follow that path. It also shows that the path to the treasure will be lost because you lost the hope of finding that treasure. King Melchizedek also says, "If you want to learn about your treasure, you will have to give me one-tenth of your flock."(Coelho 24) By saying this, the king shows that he wants something in return by helping Santiago. Even though the king may seem like a generous guy, he doesn't want to just help Santiago for free, because he feels that he needs to get something for helping Santiago. He also says, "It's what you have always wanted to accomplish, and everyone knows their personal legend, especially when they're at a very young age."(Coelho 21) When the king tells Santiago this, Santiago has no idea what his Personal Legend is. The king is surprised at Santiago because the king knows Santiago's Personal Legend, but Santiago, himself, doesn't know his own Personal Legend. Based on the concrete details and commentary I have, I conclude that this scene, when Santiago talks to King Melchizedek, is one of the most important passages in the story.