Sojourn : Tale Of An Immortal Love.

Chapter 64: The Immortal Queen

Two years had passed since I first set foot in the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, a world away from the palace intrigues of Hastinapur. My journey to train under the legendary sage Parshurama had been arduous and transformative. The harsh mountain winds and grueling training had forged me into a warrior of unmatched prowess. Guru Parshurama often spoke of my progress with a kind of quiet pride, calling me the most powerful warrior in Aryavarth.

Despite his formidable reputation, I had never seen him lose his temper. The tales of his rage seemed almost mythical compared to the calm, patient teacher who guided me. His politeness and unwavering support made the trials of my training bearable, even as the memories of Ashwattama began to fade like shadows at dawn.

One crisp morning, the sun barely peeking over the snow-capped peaks, Parshurama summoned me to the clearing where we had shared countless hours of training.

"Your training is complete," he announced, his voice resonating with a mix of authority and warmth.

I bowed deeply, my heart swelling with a mix of pride and humility. "Thank you, Gurudev. Your teachings have shaped me in ways I could never have imagined."

"You have shown extraordinary patience and discipline. These virtues are as important as your physical prowess. Because of this, I have decided to bestow upon you a boon." He smiled, a rare softness in his eyes.

"A boon?" I echoed, curiosity piqued.

"Yes—" he replied. "You shall be immortal. No one will ever be able to kill you, except for an immortal" The weight of his words settled over me like a mantle. Immortal? The concept was almost too vast to grasp.

"An immortal, except me? I wonder who it might be?"

"That is a mystery even I cannot unravel. But know this: your power will only grow, especially as you bring justice to those who walk the path of adharma." Parshurama's gaze was distant, as if he could see far beyond the present moment.

"I will use this gift to become the most influential queen Aryavarth has ever seen. I will uphold dharma and protect those who cannot protect themselves." I nodded, determination hardening within me

"Remember, immortality is not just a gift but a responsibility. Use it wisely, and let your actions inspire others." He placed a hand on my shoulder, a gesture both reassuring and empowering

As I looked into his eyes, I felt a profound sense of purpose. "I will, Gurudev. I will honor your teachings and this boon."

The days following my final training were filled with preparation for my return to kambhoja. The thought of stepping back into the political maelstrom no longer daunted me. Instead, I felt a renewed sense of clarity and strength. The mountains had tempered my body and spirit, and Parshurama's boon had given me an edge unlike any other.

On the morning of my departure, Parshurama and I stood at the edge of the forest that had been my home for two years. The path leading back to the world of men stretched before me, filled with uncertainty and promise.

"Go forth, and may your journey be guided by dharma," Parshurama said, his voice filled with a solemn blessing.

"I will not disappoint you, Guru."
I bowed deeply one last time.

As I walked away, each step felt like a promise - to myself, to my teacher, and to the world. I was no longer just a warrior. I was a guardian of justice, a bearer of an immortal legacy, and soon, the most influential queen Aryavarth would ever know.

The memories of Hastinapur had faded, but the lessons of love and loss remained. They were a part of me, as integral as the strength and skill I now possessed. With every heartbeat, I felt the power of my training, the gift of immortality, and the weight of my destiny. And as I descended from the Himalayas, I knew my journey was only just beginning.