Devika woke up with a start, a peculiar warmth spreading through her body. She felt a surge of energy coursing through her, starting from the base of her spine and spreading down to her legs, as if the earth itself was embracing her. She instinctively stretched, her movements fluid and graceful, feeling a newfound strength and balance.
As she glanced at her reflection in the ornate mirror, her face broke into a delighted smile. "What is this feeling?" she murmured, noticing a pinkish glow in her complexion and an almost tangible connection to her body and surroundings.
Yet, beneath her excitement was a seed of confusion. Unable to contain her curiosity, she hurried out to the garden, her feet light as feathers.
Chaos in the Garden
The sight that greeted her made her halt in her tracks. Shiva sat on the garden's stone bench, his mouth agape in an exaggerated expression of shock. Parvati, seated beside him, was chuckling softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
But the pièce de résistance was Mandini. The ever-dramatic Yojini was rolling on the grass, fake tears streaming down her cheeks as she wailed, "Why couldn't it be meeeeee?! Why does Devika get all the cool things?! It's not fairrrrr!"
Vidyata and Charini stood nearby, shaking their heads in exasperation.
Shiva finally cleared his throat with a loud "Ahem!" and folded his arms, his composure returning. "Devika," he said, his tone authoritative but teasing, "what exactly are you doing to reality now?"
Mandini popped up like a spring. "Yes, what are you doing, Miss Kundalini Superstar? Your mere presence is making everything... glow!"
Devika blushed, her hands clasping together nervously. "I don't know! I just woke up, and I feel... connected. Balanced. It's like I'm still meditating, but I'm not!"
Parvati leaned forward, her tone calm but curious. "Describe what you feel, child. Don't leave anything out."
Devika nodded. "It's like... a warm current, starting from my spine and flowing through my body. My legs feel strong, and my whole body feels... alive. But I'm not doing anything!"
Shiva and Parvati Explain
Shiva exchanged a thoughtful glance with Parvati before addressing Devika. "What you're experiencing is the activation of your Muladhara Chakra. Normally, this chakra is awakened through deep meditation, and its flow ceases when the meditation breaks. But you..." He paused, his lips twitching into a rare smile. "You're different."
Parvati added, "The Muladhara Chakra is the root of your connection to the physical world. It governs stability, strength, and balance. The fact that it remains active even outside meditation suggests an extraordinary harmony between your physical and astral forms."
Devika blinked. "But... is that a good thing?"
Mandini interjected, her arms flailing. "Good thing? It's the BEST thing! You're like... a walking, talking meditation prodigy!"
Charini groaned. "Mandini, let the adults talk."
Shiva continued, ignoring the interruption. "It's neither inherently good nor bad. What matters is how you use this connection. Such a state is rare and can lead to greater spiritual growth—or chaos, if mismanaged."
Parvati nodded. "You must remain mindful, Devika. Your journey has just begun."
The Banquet Invitation
Before Devika could respond, a strange sound filled the air—a rhythmic whooshing accompanied by a golden glow. Everyone turned toward the sky as a massive messenger bird descended gracefully, its wings shimmering as it floated between heaven and earth.
The bird landed, carrying a gleaming scroll in its talons. It bowed low before Shiva and Parvati, who exchanged bemused glances.
Parvati took the scroll and unrolled it, reading aloud:
"You are cordially invited to the Banquet of Gods and Celestials. A grand assembly of divine beings from all realms will convene to celebrate the harmony of the cosmos."
Mandini squealed. "The Banquet of Gods?! Oh, the glamour! The food! The gossip!"
Charini snorted. "It's not a fashion show, Mandini."
Shiva's expression darkened. "Another banquet? Must we attend these frivolous gatherings? It's always the same—pointless chatter and boastful displays."
Parvati chuckled. "Oh, come now. Brother Vishnu and Sister-in-Law Lakshmi will be there."
At the mention of Vishnu, Shiva's face lit up like a child hearing about sweets. "Vishnu? Really? Well... perhaps it's not such a lowly event after all." He let out a small, amused giggle, his mood transforming instantly.
Parvati smirked. "I thought that might change your mind."
Preparing for the Banquet
Parvati turned to the Yojinis, her voice firm. "Mandini, Vidyata, Charini, ensure Devika continues her training while we're away. And summon the others to assist you. She has much to learn."
Mandini saluted dramatically. "Yes, Maa Parvati! We won't let you down!"
Charini sighed. "Let's just hope she doesn't turn this into a circus."
Shiva stood, his towering presence commanding attention. "Devika, remember what we've taught you so far. Your journey is unique, but you are not alone. Trust the guidance of the Yojinis."
Parvati added gently, "We won't be gone long. And when we return, we'll continue where we left off."
Devika bowed, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, Lord Shiva. Thank you, Maa Parvati. I won't let you down."
A New Challenge
As Shiva and Parvati departed, the Yojinis gathered around Devika, each with a glint of excitement in their eyes.
Mandini clapped her hands. "Alright, Miss Prodigy, let's see what else you've got! Time to put that kundalini flow to the test!"
Charini smirked. "Try not to break reality this time."
Vidyata smiled warmly. "Focus and trust yourself, Devika. We'll guide you every step of the way."
Devika took a deep breath, ready to embrace the challenges ahead. The path was daunting, but for the first time, she felt truly prepared to walk it.