Arjun woke up early the next morning, feeling restless and eager to start the day and improve himself. He dressed quickly and made his way outside, where the sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon.
As he walked, he couldn't help but think about Kavya. He had been so captivated by her during their fight that he couldn't get her out of his mind. He had never felt this way about anyone before, and it both thrilled and terrified him.
Arjun's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of his master's voice.
"Arjun, come with me," Guruji said, beckoning him over.
Arjun followed Guruji through the forest, feeling a sense of anticipation building in his chest. He wondered what his master had in store for him today.
As they walked, Guruji began to speak. "Arjun, you have shown great skill and determination in your training," he said. "But there is one skill that every warrior must master if they are to truly be great."
"What is it, Master?" Arjun asked, eager to learn.
"Hunting," Guruji replied simply.
Arjun was taken aback. He had never hunted before, and the thought of killing an animal made him uneasy.
Guruji must have sensed his apprehension because he continued. "Hunting is not just about killing, Arjun. It is about understanding the animal's movements, their behavior, and their environment. It is about respect for all living things."
Arjun nodded, feeling a sense of understanding wash over him. He knew that he had much to learn.
Guruji led Arjun to a clearing, where a group of other students were waiting. Kavya was among them, and Arjun felt his heart skip a beat as she smiled at him.
"Today, you will all be split into groups and sent out to hunt," Guruji said. "Remember what I have taught you, and most importantly, show respect for the animals and the environment."
Arjun was paired with Kavya and two other students, and they set off into the forest. As they walked, Arjun couldn't help but steal glances at Kavya. She was so beautiful, so fierce, and so skilled. He felt like he could watch her fight forever.
As they walked, Kavya noticed Arjun staring at her and smiled. "What are you looking at, warrior?" she teased.
Arjun blushed, feeling embarrassed at being caught. "Nothing, just...admiring your skills," he said, trying to play it off coolly.
Kavya laughed, and Arjun felt his heart skip a beat at the sound. He knew then that he had to find a way to spend more time with her, to get to know her better.
They hunted for hours, but they were unsuccessful in catching anything. As they made their way back to the temple, Arjun felt disappointed but also grateful for the experience.
Back at the temple, Guruji gathered all the students together. "Today, you have all learned an important lesson," he said. "Hunting is not just about killing, it is about respect for all living things. Remember this, and you will be a true warrior."
Arjun felt a sense of pride at his master's words. He knew that he still had much to learn, but he was eager to continue his journey as a warrior of Kalaripayattu.