
near the end of the journey
Santiago's attempt to turn into the wind
The alchemist and Santiago are captured by a hostile tribe. The alchemist claims Santiago can turn himself into the wind, buying them three days. Santiago, terrified, learns to listen to his heart and communicates with the desert, the wind, and the sun. He ultimately prays to the Hand that Wrote All, and a powerful simum (sandstorm) engulfs the camp. When it clears, Santiago has transformed himself into the wind, astonishing the tribesmen and securing their release.