THREADS OF FATE ~

The Path of Eternal Peace

Next day

They again meet , the soft hum of temple bells echoed through the air as the morning sun rose higher, casting a golden glow upon the ancient city of Puri. Gaurhari stood calmly before Vasudev and the Rajguru, his serene expression reflecting the peace he carried within. The meeting in the temple had touched Vasudev's heart deeply, but Gaurhari knew that before he could answer all of Vasudev's questions, there was a necessary step that had to be taken.

Gaurhari gestured toward the sea, which stretched out in the distance, its waves gently lapping against the shore. "Before I can guide you further, Vasudev, you must purify yourself," he said, his voice gentle yet firm. "The sea is sacred here in Puri. Its waters hold the blessings of Lord Jagannath. Bathe in the sea, and wash away the doubts, the attachments, and the burdens you carry. Only then will you be ready to receive the answers you seek."

Vasudev and the Rajguru exchanged a glance, understanding the gravity of Gaurhari's words. The sea had always been a symbol of purification, and Gaurhari's instruction carried deep spiritual significance.

"I understand, *Guruji*," Vasudev said, his voice steady. "I will do as you say."

With that, Gaurhari turned and began walking toward the shore, with Vasudev and the Rajguru following closely behind. The path to the sea was quiet, with the sound of waves growing louder as they approached. The wind carried with it the scent of salt and the prayers of countless pilgrims who had come to these sacred waters seeking salvation.

As they reached the edge of the sea, Gaurhari stood still, allowing Vasudev and the Rajguru to step forward. "The waters will cleanse not just your body but your soul," Gaurhari explained. "As you bathe, let go of all the worries that cloud your heart and mind. Surrender fully, and you will find clarity."

Vasudev hesitated for a moment, looking out at the vast expanse of the ocean. He had come here seeking answers, but in this moment, he realized that the answers would only come through surrender. Without another word, he removed his royal robes, leaving only a simple cloth to cover himself, and stepped into the water. The Rajguru, with equal reverence, followed his king into the sea.

The cool waters touched Vasudev's feet, sending a shiver through his body. As he walked deeper into the sea, the waves rose around him, as though welcoming him into their embrace. He closed his eyes and let the water wash over him, feeling the weight of his burdens begin to lift. Every wave that touched him seemed to carry away a piece of the pain and confusion that had plagued him for so long.

The Rajguru, standing beside him, immersed himself fully in the water, whispering prayers to Lord Jagannath as he did. The two of them, side by side, performed the ritual bath in silence, allowing the sacred waters to cleanse them.

On the shore, Gaurhari watched with a quiet smile. He could feel the transformation happening within Vasudev. The king had come seeking peace, and this was the first step in his journey. Gaurhari knew that Vasudev's soul was ready, but the path ahead would require patience, understanding, and deep introspection.

After several minutes, Vasudev and the Rajguru emerged from the sea, their bodies glistening with water, their faces calm and peaceful. Vasudev felt a lightness in his heart that he hadn't experienced in years. It was as though the ocean had washed away not just the salt of the earth, but the heaviness that had burdened his soul.

They returned to Gaurhari, who nodded approvingly. "You have taken the first step," he said softly. "Now, you are ready to receive the answers you seek."

Vasudev, still dripping from the sea, looked at Gaurhari with a newfound sense of respect and reverence. "*Guruji*, I feel... different. Lighter. But I know my journey is only beginning. Please, guide me."