After creating my small universe, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment and connection to the vast expanse I had brought into existence. Each star, each planet, and each realm within it was a testament to my imagination and cultivation prowess. But as much as I wanted to remain and explore every corner of this creation, I knew some other duties and responsibilities required my attention.
Leaving the small universe felt like leaving a part of myself behind, but I reminded myself that I could always return and continue my work there. With a heavy heart but resolute mind, I stepped away from the portal leading to my creation and ventured back into the world outside.
The town was bustling as usual, the cacophony of daily life a stark contrast to the serene silence of my universe. Walking through the streets, I observed the myriad of human experiences unfolding around me—laughter, sorrow, joy, and despair. In these moments, I was reminded of the balance between my ethereal pursuits and the grounded reality of everyday existence.
While navigating through the crowded marketplace, a commotion caught my attention. A large crowd had gathered, their voices raised in curiosity and amusement. Intrigued, I made my way through the crowd, pushing past the onlookers until I reached the center of the gathering.
There, standing amidst the crowd, were a young brother and sister. They were trying to sell themselves, their faces a mix of desperation and sorrow. The sight tugged at my heartstrings, and I knew I couldn't just stand by and watch.
"What's going on here?" I asked, my voice cutting through the chatter.
A man from the crowd answered, "They're trying to sell themselves to pay for their parents' burial. It's quite a spectacle."
The young man's eyes met mine, filled with hope and resignation. "We have no other choice," he said. "We can't afford to bury our parents. This is the only way we can think of to raise the money."
I stepped forward, my mind made up. "You don't have to do this," I said firmly. "I'll help you."
The crowd fell silent, watching intently as I continued. "I'll take you both as my disciples. In return, I'll make sure your parents receive the proper burial they deserve."
The siblings looked at each other, tears welling up in their eyes. The young woman spoke, her voice trembling, "Are you serious? You would do that for us?"
I nodded. "Yes, I would. No one should have to face such hardships alone."
The siblings, overwhelmed with emotion, accepted my offer. The crowd, witnessing this act of kindness, murmured in approval. Some even stepped forward to offer their assistance, moved by the gesture.
Together, we arranged for the burial of their parents, ensuring that they were laid to rest with dignity and respect. It was a solemn yet necessary task that brought the siblings a sense of closure and peace.
With the immediate crisis resolved, I welcomed the brother and sister. As my new disciples, I began to teach them the ways of cultivation, sharing with them the knowledge and skills I had learned.
The days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months. The siblings proved to be diligent and eager students, quickly grasping the fundamentals of cultivation. Under my guidance, they began to unlock their potential, each day growing stronger and more confident in their abilities.
Their journey was beginning, but I knew they had the determination and resilience to succeed. As their mentor, I was committed to helping them reach their full potential, just as I continued to strive towards my own goals.
Leaving my small universe had been difficult, but it had led me to this new chapter of my life—one where I could make a tangible difference in the lives of others. I felt renewed purpose and fulfillment as I watched my new disciples grow and flourish.
The Next Day
The following morning, I awoke with a renewed sense of purpose. The previous day's events had solidified my resolve to make a difference in the world around me. My new disciples, the brother and sister, were already up and preparing for their training.
I joined them in the courtyard, where the early morning light cast a serene glow. They greeted me with respect and eagerness, ready to embrace the lessons ahead.
"Good morning," I said, smiling at them. "Are you both ready to begin your training in earnest?"
They nodded enthusiastically. The young man, who introduced himself as Aiden, spoke up. "We are, Master Vlad. We're ready to learn and grow stronger."
The young woman, Lily, echoed his sentiments. "We want to make the most of this opportunity you've given us."
I began with the cultivation basics, teaching them how to sense and manipulate their spiritual energy. I observed their progress as they practiced, offering guidance and corrections when needed. Despite their initial lack of experience, Aiden and Lily showed remarkable potential and determination.
I taught them various techniques and exercises to enhance their physical and spiritual capabilities throughout the day. We focused on meditation, energy circulation, and basic combat skills. They absorbed the knowledge eagerly, and their dedication was evident in every movement.
We sat together under the shade of a large tree during a break. I took the opportunity to learn more about their backgrounds and aspirations.
"Tell me about your parents," I said gently. "What were they like?"
Aiden's eyes grew distant as he recalled memories of their parents. "They were kind and hardworking. Our father was a blacksmith, and our mother was a healer. They taught us the value of honesty, perseverance, and helping others."