Part 2, Section 4
Santiago realizes that the oasis is much bigger than he had anticipated: it is more like a town with countless tents. Because it is considered neutral territory, the caravan leader announces that they will take refuge at the oasis until the conflict between the tribes is over. All travelers are ordered to surrender any arms or weapons which are forbidden in the area.
The Englishman enlists Santiago’s help in looking for the alchemist who holds the secret to the Philosopher’s Stone. After a day of fruitless searching, Santiago asks around at the well for a man who can perform great feats, such as curing people’s illnesses. Eventually, he meets a girl named Fatima, whom he falls in love with at first sight. She points the Englishman in the direction of the alchemist’s tent.
The next day, Santiago finds the Englishman by the well. He is disappointed with his first meeting with the alchemist who had simply instructed him to try and make his own Philosopher’s Stone. After the Englishman leaves, Fatima arrives to fill up her water vessel. Santiago declares his love for her, promising to wait for her at the well every day. The two develop a close relationship over the next few weeks.
After almost a month at the oasis, the caravan leader informs them that the war may last years. Santiago considers abandoning his quest for treasure and settling down with Fatima. However, she insists that he must fulfill his Personal Legend, even vowing to wait for him. Shortly after, while observing a pair of hawks in the sky, Santiago sees a vision of an approaching army. His camel driver friend advises him to share this with the tribal chieftains.
While most chieftains regard Santiago’s vision with skepticism, the oldest and wisest declare that they must heed the desert’s warnings. Suspending the oasis’ no weapons rule, they arm the locals and prepare for battle. As Santiago walks back to his tent, he is intercepted by a horserider who tests his courage by pointing a sword at his forehead. When Santiago passes the test, the rider reveals himself as the alchemist.
Five hundred tribesmen attempt to attack and ransack the oasis the following day. However, they are ambushed and quickly sentenced to death. Apart from being awarded with gold, Santiago is also offered the position of counselor, which he declines. He meets with the alchemist, who instructs him to sell his camel and buy a horse. The two ride out of the oasis. Santiago passes another of the alchemist’s tests—to find life in the sand.
The alchemist offers to guide Santiago to the pyramids in Egypt. When Santiago insists he wishes to stay with Fatima, the alchemist tells him that he will end up bitter and regretful if he does not follow his Personal Legend.
On the night of their departure, Santiago embraces Fatima for the first time and promises to return. He and the alchemist ride through the desert, during which Santiago is taught the general principles of alchemy.
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