Devika stood amidst the celestial garden, her eyes adjusting to the surreal surroundings that felt like a dream and reality intertwined. The playful banter of Mandini and the focused instructions of Charani and Vidyata had filled her days with discovery, but the announcement of two more Yojinis made her curious and slightly nervous.
The Mysterious Arrival
The garden shimmered as two new figures emerged, their presence commanding attention.
First Yojini: Cloaked in flowing black robes, her face was partially obscured by a soft fabric that covered her eyes. Her alabaster skin, gleaming like fresh milk, seemed to glow with an otherworldly aura. She moved with an ethereal grace, her voice echoing like whispers across time.
"I am Kaivalya," she introduced, her tone carrying infinite patience. "I govern the flow of time and space, shaping reality to nurture growth. Devika, your training begins in realms beyond the limitations of this plane."
Second Yojini: Standing next to Kaivalya was a stark contrast—a muscular, tan-skinned Yojini with a strong, tomboyish demeanor. She crossed her arms, her golden bangles clinking softly. Her piercing eyes, framed by short, slightly messy hair, held Devika in a steady gaze.
"And I'm Sharvani," she said with a confident smirk. "I'm here to whip your body and mind into shape. By the time I'm done, even mountains will bow to your strength."
Mandini leaned closer to Devika and whispered dramatically, "She's intense, but don't worry. She's secretly a softie!"
Sharvani flicked Mandini's ear. "I heard that."
The Creation of the Training Realm
Kaivalya stepped forward, raising her hands gracefully. A shimmering, translucent orb began to form around them, pulsating with light.
"In this realm," she explained, "time flows differently. A single day outside will equal one year within. You will have the opportunity to hone your skills without losing precious moments in the mortal world."
The orb expanded, enveloping the garden. Inside, the landscape transformed into an endless horizon of shifting colors, where time and space seemed to ripple like waves.
"Whoa!" Devika exclaimed, spinning around to take in the surreal environment. "This is incredible."
Kaivalya nodded. "You will adapt. But remember, this realm tests more than just your abilities. It challenges your perception of existence."
Sharvani's Preparations
Sharvani clapped her hands, snapping Devika's attention back. "Alright, princess, enough gawking. Time to get moving. First, we strengthen your core—both body and mind. Only then can you withstand the rigorous training Maa Parvati and Lord Shiva have planned for you."
She led Devika to a serene clearing filled with strange, glowing plants. "Sit," Sharvani commanded.
Devika obeyed, crossing her legs. Sharvani circled her like a hawk.
"You've awakened your Kundalini," Sharvani began, "but that's only the start. Your body must become a vessel capable of holding divine energy without breaking." She suddenly dropped into a perfect plank position, her muscles taut. "Follow me."
Devika hesitated but mimicked the pose. Sharvani's corrections were immediate and relentless. "No slouching! Engage your core. Imagine you're balancing the universe on your back."
Mandini's Comedic Interruption
Midway through the grueling exercises, Mandini appeared with a tray of glowing fruits. "Snack break?" she offered cheerily.
Sharvani groaned. "Mandini, this is serious."
"Exactly! Serious training needs serious fuel." Mandini tossed a fruit toward Devika, who caught it gratefully.
Kaivalya, observing from a distance, added softly, "The fruit nourishes not just the body but the spirit. A balanced mind begins with a balanced energy."
Sharvani sighed but allowed the break, muttering under her breath, "Fine. But don't get used to these interruptions."
The Challenge of Time
As days within the realm turned into weeks, Devika began to notice subtle changes. Her body grew stronger under Sharvani's guidance, her movements more precise. Kaivalya's lessons, though abstract, sharpened her awareness of the flow of energy and time.
During one session, Kaivalya asked, "Do you feel it, Devika? The rhythm of existence?"
Devika paused, closing her eyes. Slowly, she nodded. "It's... like a current. Constant, yet shifting."
Kaivalya smiled faintly. "Good. You're beginning to understand. The cosmos is a symphony, and you must learn to play your part."
Bonds and Growth
Devika's days were filled with intensity, but the Yojinis' contrasting personalities kept her spirits high. Sharvani's sternness was balanced by Mandini's playful antics, while Vidyata and Charani offered encouragement and wisdom.
Even Kaivalya, with her serene demeanor, shared moments of quiet humor. When Devika once tripped during a time-flow exercise, Kaivalya remarked dryly, "Gravity always wins."
The End of the First Phase
As their time in the realm neared its end, Sharvani observed Devika with a proud glint in her eye. "You're stronger than I expected," she admitted. "But this is just the beginning."
Kaivalya stepped forward, her presence as commanding as ever. "Your journey is far from over, Devika. You've begun to unlock your potential, but the path ahead will demand even greater resolve."
Devika nodded, determination shining in her eyes. "I'm ready."
Sharvani grinned. "Good. Because once Shiva and Maa Parvati return, things will get real."
Mandini chimed in, waving a fist dramatically. "And we'll be here, cheering—or, you know, yelling—at you every step of the way!"
Devika couldn't help but laugh, feeling a newfound strength and confidence in her heart. As the orb began to dissolve, signaling their return to the celestial garden, she braced herself for whatever lay ahead.