Chapter 6: The Path of Virtue Qi
Ali's journey into the depths of soul cultivation was one of patience and persistence. Night after night, he found himself slipping out of bed, seeking the quiet stillness before dawn. Each night he meditated, trying to reconnect with the mysterious presence of virtue qi that his grandfather had shown him. The feeling was elusive, and though he felt it brushing against his consciousness, grasping it seemed an impossible task.
Several days passed with Ali making small but significant progress. His dedication did not go unnoticed. One morning, as the first light of dawn broke over Stone Dam Village, Hamza approached Ali, a thoughtful look in his eyes.
"You've been diligent," Hamza said, placing a hand on Ali's shoulder. "It's time you seek further guidance. There is someone you need to meet."
Hamza led Ali through the village, to a secluded corner where a modest building stood. This was the domain of Elder Omar, the guardian of the clan's book collection. Omar, known as White Beard, was a figure of mystery within the village. His origins were unknown, and he seldom interacted with others. His white beard and wise eyes gave him an aura of ancient knowledge.
They entered the building, and Omar looked up from a scroll he was studying. His gaze fell on Ali, and he studied the young boy intently. After a moment, he nodded, a faint smile playing at his lips.
"Welcome, Ali," Omar said, his voice soft yet commanding. "Hamza speaks highly of you. I see the same determination in your eyes."
"Thank you, Elder," Ali replied respectfully.
Omar gestured for Ali to follow him. "Come, there is something I wish to show you."
They walked through the main chamber of the book collection vault, where shelves lined with scrolls and books stretched high. The room was filled with the scent of aged parchment and the quiet whisper of ancient knowledge. Omar led Ali past these shelves to a smaller, dimly lit chamber at the back.
"This is where we keep the lesser-known scriptures," Omar explained. "Most of these focus on peculiar methods of cultivation, often overlooked by those seeking immediate gains."
Ali's eyes roamed over the dusty volumes. These were not the popular scriptures of the larger sects, but there was an air of mystery and potential about them. Omar began to pull out various books, showing Ali their contents.
"Here we have a collection of texts on soul cultivation," Omar said, his fingers tracing the spines of the books. "Most people dismiss them, but those who understand their value know they hold the secrets to true immortality."
Ali was intrigued by a particular section of the shelf, where a single scroll seemed to glow with an inner light. "What about this one, Elder?" he asked, pointing to the scroll.
Omar's eyes lit up with recognition. "Ah, the 'Seven Stances of Soul Cultivation.' This is not an easy path, even for those who have mastered the basics of soul cultivation. It requires not only understanding but also a profound connection to virtue qi."
Ali felt a pull towards the scroll. "I want to try it."
Omar raised an eyebrow, impressed by Ali's courage. "Very well. But know this, Ali: this scripture demands great perseverance and wisdom. Many have tried, and few have succeeded. Are you sure?"
Ali nodded, determination shining in his eyes. "I'm sure, Elder. I want to cultivate my soul and understand the true path to immortality."
Omar handed him the scroll. "Then take it, and may your journey be guided by virtue and resilience. Remember, the 'Seven Stances of Soul Cultivation' is not just a technique; it's a way of life. Embrace it fully, and it will lead you to heights you cannot yet imagine."
Ali accepted the scroll with reverence. He felt a sense of destiny as he held it, knowing this was a turning point in his path. With gratitude, he bowed to Omar and returned home, eager to begin his study of the 'Seven Stances of Soul Cultivation.'
As he unfurled the scroll that night, the moonlight casting a gentle glow on the ancient parchment, Ali felt the presence of his ancestors guiding him. He knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but with his grandfather's teachings and the wisdom of the scriptures, he was ready to face whatever lay ahead. The path of virtue qi was now his to walk, and he vowed to honor his heritage by mastering the art of soul cultivation.