64: Faith

With the universal education system successfully implemented across the cosmos, Boundless Dream felt a surge of power unlike any she had experienced before. Each day, she found herself growing stronger, her celestial presence more potent and vibrant. Curious about the source of this newfound strength, she took a moment to meditate and connect with the cosmos.

As she delved deeper into her meditation, she became aware of countless lines of light extending from her being, reaching out to every corner of the universe. These threads of light shimmered and pulsed with energy, each one carrying a unique vibration. Intrigued, she reached out and touched one of the threads.

Instantly, a vision filled her mind. She saw a young child in a lower realm, studying diligently with a textbook from the newly established educational system. The child’s eyes were filled with hope and determination, their heart brimming with dreams of a better future. The child’s prayer echoed in her mind: “Thank you, Boundless Dream, for giving me a chance to learn and grow. I will work hard and make you proud.”

Tears welled in Boundless Dream’s eyes as she realized the significance of what she was witnessing. These threads of light were not merely connections; they were the prayers, hopes, and dreams of countless beings across the cosmos. Each one was a testament to the impact her efforts had made, a manifestation of their faith in her.

“Innumerable amounts of these threads,” she whispered to herself, “connecting to me… this is Faith.”

The realization was profound. By providing education and hope, she had unknowingly become a beacon of faith for countless beings. Their belief in her and their gratitude for the opportunities she had given them were strengthening her, infusing her with their collective faith.

Boundless Dream marveled at the sheer number of threads. They stretched far and wide, connecting her to beings of all ages, races, and realms. Each thread carried a story, a dream, a prayer. She could feel their emotions, their struggles, and their aspirations. It was overwhelming and humbling.

“This faith,” she thought, “is a source of immense power. It is the essence of their hopes and dreams, their trust in me.”

As she continued to explore these connections, she realized that this influx of faith was not just making her stronger; it was also giving her a deeper sense of responsibility. She understood that her role was not only to protect and guide but also to nurture the dreams and aspirations of those who believed in her.

“With great power comes great responsibility,” she mused, recalling an old saying from her time on Earth. “I must use this faith wisely, to continue to inspire and uplift.”

Determined to honor the faith bestowed upon her, Boundless Dream decided to use this newfound power to further strengthen the cosmos. She would ensure that the light of education, hope, and unity continued to shine brightly.

Returning to her celestial palace, she gathered her closest allies once more. Yin, Eldrathorn, Li Mei, Mei Bao, and the masters of the Hidden Temple could sense the change in her, the increased aura of strength and serenity.

“Hanna,” Yin said, using her original name with a sense of reverence, “you seem… different. More powerful.”

Boundless Dream nodded, a serene smile on her face. “I have discovered the source of my growing strength. It is the faith of the countless beings we have touched through our efforts. Their prayers, hopes, and dreams are connected to me, empowering me.”

Eldrathorn, his dragon eyes filled with understanding, spoke. “Faith is a powerful force. It can move mountains and change destinies. The faith they have in you is a testament to the hope you have given them.”

Li Mei added, “We must continue to nurture this faith, to guide and protect them. This is a sacred responsibility.”

Boundless Dream agreed. “Indeed. We will use this faith to strengthen our defenses, to further our education efforts, and to ensure that every being in the cosmos has the opportunity to realize their potential.”

With renewed purpose, Boundless Dream and her allies set to work. They expanded the educational system, reaching even the most remote and isolated realms. They fortified their defenses, using the combined power of their faith and cultivation to protect the cosmos from any future threats. They also established new programs to mentor and support aspiring cultivators, scholars, and leaders.

As the days passed, the threads of faith continued to multiply, each one a testament to the enduring impact of Boundless Dream’s vision. She felt a profound sense of fulfillment, knowing that she was not only protecting the cosmos but also inspiring it.

With the influx of faith and the realization of her growing strength, Boundless Dream found herself pondering deeper questions about the nature of existence and the role of the Heavens. The surge of power and the responsibility it brought made her reflect on the balance of good and evil, free will, and the limitations of divine intervention.

One evening, as the stars shimmered in the celestial sky and the cosmos hummed with renewed energy, Boundless Dream decided to seek answers from the Heavens themselves. She retreated to a tranquil spot beneath the Great Way Tree, her mind filled with questions that had long troubled her.

“Why do the Heavens allow suffering and evil to exist?” she wondered. “Is it simply due to the cost of energy, or is there a deeper reason related to free will?”

With her heart full of these questions, she closed her eyes and reached out with her celestial presence, seeking a connection with the divine forces that governed the universe. The air around her shimmered with a soft, golden light as the Heavens responded to her call.

A warm, soothing voice filled her mind, resonating with wisdom and compassion. “Boundless Dream, you seek answers to the profound questions of existence and morality. We shall provide you with the clarity you seek.”

The Heavens’ presence enveloped her, filling her with a sense of peace and understanding. “The existence of suffering and evil in the world is indeed a complex matter, intertwined with the fundamental principles of free will and the balance of the cosmos.”

Boundless Dream listened intently, her heart open to the wisdom of the Heavens.

“Free will is a sacred gift bestowed upon all sentient beings,” the Heavens explained. “It is the ability to make choices, to learn, and to grow. Without free will, there can be no true growth, no genuine experience of love, compassion, or understanding.”

She nodded, understanding the significance of free will. “But why does free will allow for such heinous acts, like rape? Why do the Heavens not intervene directly to punish such evil?”

The Heavens’ voice took on a tone of solemnity. “The capacity for free will means that beings have the power to choose their actions, whether for good or evil. This duality is necessary for the existence of free will. If the Heavens were to intervene directly in every instance of evil, it would undermine the very nature of free will.”

Boundless Dream felt a pang of sorrow at the thought, but she knew there was more to understand.

“Furthermore,” the Heavens continued, “direct intervention in every act of evil would disrupt the balance of the cosmos. The energy required to control and correct every action would be immense, and it would create a reality where free will is an illusion. True growth and understanding come from the ability to make choices, face consequences, and learn from them.”

She sighed, accepting the complexity of the answer. “So, it is not a matter of energy cost alone, but a deeper principle of allowing beings to exercise their free will, even when it leads to suffering?”

“Yes,” the Heavens affirmed. “However, this does not mean that justice and compassion are absent from the world. The Heavens empower beings like you, Boundless Dream, to bring light into the darkness, to guide and protect, and to inspire others to choose goodness over evil. Your role is crucial in shaping a world where free will leads to love, growth, and harmony.”

Boundless Dream felt a renewed sense of purpose. “I understand. My role is to be a beacon of hope and guidance, to help others see the value of choosing good, and to support those who suffer.”

The Heavens’ presence radiated warmth and approval. “Indeed, Boundless Dream. Your actions, your teachings, and the light you bring to the cosmos are ways through which the Heavens work to balance free will and justice. Continue to inspire and lead, and you will make a profound difference in the world.”

With these words, the divine connection began to fade, leaving Boundless Dream with a deep sense of clarity and resolve. She opened her eyes, the light of the stars reflecting in her gaze, and stood beneath the Great Way Tree with a heart full of determination.