The Price of Immortality

Shree Yan's journey took him deeper into the wilderness, the darkness that clung to him growing ever more oppressive. The Tamas Vidhana had granted him control over shadows, but it had also begun to strip away the remnants of his humanity. Each step forward felt like a descent into a deeper hell, yet he continued, driven by an insatiable hunger for immortality.

It was on the third night after leaving the village that he encountered another presence—a figure that appeared out of nowhere, emerging from the shadows like a wraith. The figure was tall, cloaked in black, with a hood that obscured most of their face. Yet, there was something familiar about them—something that made Shree Yan's heart skip a beat.

"Shree Yan," the figure said, their voice a low, melodic whisper. "I've been waiting for you."

Shree Yan's hand instinctively reached for the blade at his side, but the figure raised a hand, signaling for peace.

"I am not your enemy," the figure continued. "At least not yet."

Shree Yan studied the figure, his mind racing. "Who are you?"

The figure lowered their hood, revealing a face that was both beautiful and haunting. It was a woman—Padma Devi, a name he had heard whispered in the deepest corners of the world. She was a figure of legend, said to possess knowledge of the darkest techniques, and her name was spoken in fear.

"I am the one who holds the key to your immortality," Padma said, her voice carrying an ancient wisdom. "But to gain it, you must first understand the cost."

Shree Yan's eyes narrowed. "I've already paid a price. And I will pay whatever it takes."

Padma smiled, though it was not a reassuring smile. "The cost is greater than you realize. Immortality does not come without its consequences. It will consume you, twist you, and leave you hollow. You may gain eternal life, but you will lose everything that makes you human."

Shree Yan's resolve did not falter. "I've already lost everything. There is nothing left but the pursuit of power."

Padma's gaze softened with pity. "Then you are already lost."

With those words, the shadows around them seemed to tremble, as if reacting to her presence. Shree Yan felt a surge of power, but it was different from the power he had known. It was darker, more dangerous. The very air seemed to grow heavier, and for the first time in his journey, Shree Yan felt a flicker of doubt.

But Padma's smile never wavered. "Power is a double-edged sword, Shree Yan. You will learn that soon enough."