Chapter 4: The Purpose of Cultivation
The evening was calm, a gentle breeze rustling through the leaves of the ancient trees surrounding Stone Dam Village. Ali had just completed another intense training session, feeling the exhilaration of his recent breakthrough still coursing through him. He sat by the fire, lost in thought, when his grandfather, Hamza, approached.
"Ali," Hamza said, his voice steady and full of warmth, "walk with me. There are things we need to discuss."
Ali rose and followed Hamza, curiosity piqued. They walked in silence for a while, the moon casting a soft glow over the village. Eventually, they reached a secluded spot near a small grove of trees. Hamza sat down on a flat stone, motioning for Ali to join him.
"Grandfather, what is it that you wanted to talk about?" Ali asked, settling down beside him.
Hamza looked at his grandson, his eyes filled with wisdom and a hint of sadness. "Ali, there is a purpose to cultivation that many seem to have forgotten. Human beings were created with a profound purpose by the heavens, a purpose that transcends mere power or status."
Ali listened intently as Hamza continued. "Every human yearns for immortality, and there is a reason for that. Humans consist of two essential components: the body and the soul. The body is mortal, bound to this world, while the soul is immortal, the true essence of our being. This yearning for immortality is not just a desire for endless life; it is a longing to reunite the body and soul in perfect harmony."
Hamza paused, allowing Ali to absorb his words. "Cultivation, in its truest sense, is about attaining immortality by cultivating both the body and the soul. However, in their pursuit of immediate gains, many have forgotten this balance. They create methods that focus solely on the body or mundane achievements, ignoring the cultivation of the soul. This imbalance leads to hollow strength and fleeting power."
Ali frowned, thinking of the many cultivators he had heard of, their obsession with levels and quick advancement. "But, Grandfather, how can one cultivate both the body and the soul?"
"Only when the body and soul are cultivated in unison can one truly embark on the road to immortality," Hamza replied. "Our ancestors understood this balance, and it is the essence of their teachings. They left behind scriptures and methods that guide us toward this ultimate goal, but these teachings have been overshadowed by more popular, less profound techniques."
Hamza stood, motioning for Ali to follow him once more. They walked to a hidden part of the village, a place Ali had never been before. Hamza led him to a concealed chamber, opening it with a key that had been passed down through generations. Inside, the air was cool and the walls were lined with ancient scrolls and artifacts.
Hamza reached for a particular scroll, carefully wrapped in silk and adorned with intricate designs. He handed it to Ali with great reverence. "This, Ali, is the most important treasure left behind by our ancestor, the last legendary hero. It is called 'The Book of the World.' Within it lies the detailed method of cultivating both the body and the soul, guiding one to true immortality."
Ali held the scroll with trembling hands, feeling the weight of its significance.
"The last legendary hero... He perfected this method?"
"Yes," Hamza confirmed. "He reached the pinnacle of cultivation, understanding the true balance between body and soul. He led mankind to new heights, defeating the Devil Master and leaving him in deep slumber. His teachings are the key to our future, and now they are entrusted to you."
Ali unwrapped the scroll, revealing beautifully inscribed characters that seemed to glow with an inner light. He felt a deep connection to the words, as if they resonated with something fundamental within him.
"Grandfather, I will honor this legacy," Ali vowed. "I will cultivate both my body and soul and strive for true immortality."
Hamza placed a hand on Ali's shoulder, his gaze steady and proud. "Remember, Ali, this path is not easy. It requires patience, perseverance, and a steadfast heart. But I believe in you. You have the potential to achieve greatness, just like our ancestor."
As Ali absorbed his grandfather's words, a sense of purpose and determination filled him. He knew that his journey would be long and challenging, but with the guidance of "The Book of the World," he felt ready to face whatever lay ahead. Together with his grandfather's teachings, Ali embarked on a path that would not only change his life but also shape the destiny of mankind.