What is the primary function of Sai Baba's stories as explained in the introduction to the tale of the two gentlemen from Goa?

The primary function of Sai Baba's stories, as explained in the introduction in Chapter 36, is to serve as a vehicle for spiritual upliftment and the fulfillment of devotees' desires. Before introducing the story of the two gentlemen from Goa, the text explains that these narratives remove the "fatigue and misery of worldly existence" and induce a state of happiness. Chapter 36 highlights that Sai Baba himself loves his stories and uses them as a pretext to provide memories of his leelas. By making the listener and speaker a medium, he ultimately fulfills the spiritual and worldly desires of his devotees, demonstrating that the stories are a direct form of his grace and protection.