Growth Without Bulk
Three months had passed within Kaivalya's temporal realm, yet Devika's body retained its lithe and feminine form. Despite Sharvani's grueling training, there wasn't even a hint of muscular bulk on Devika. However, her strength, endurance, and agility had increased to superhuman levels. Sharvani observed this phenomenon with a mix of curiosity and pride.
"Your body doesn't show it," Sharvani said, tapping Devika's arm lightly, "but you're far stronger than you look. A rare gift, Devika. Most warriors carry their strength visibly. Yours lies beneath the surface—a quiet storm."
Devika, drenched in sweat, rolled her eyes. "If it's a storm, it feels more like a hurricane during your training!"
Sharvani smirked. "Good. Then I'm doing my job."
Learning the Martial Arts of Sanatan Dharma
Sharvani had pushed Devika into mastering the ancient and intricate martial arts of Sanatan Dharma. Each form demanded not just physical prowess but also spiritual alignment and discipline.
Kalaripayattu: Known as the mother of all martial arts, Kalaripayattu was the first discipline Devika studied. Through fluid movements, powerful strikes, and synchronized breathing, Devika learned to connect her body and mind. Sharvani introduced her to dynamic kicks and techniques using sticks and swords.
"Kalaripayattu is about grace," Sharvani explained. "Power without grace is chaos."
Malla Yuddha: This ancient form of wrestling was a test of strength and tactics. Sharvani demonstrated techniques by flipping Mandini over her shoulder in a flash, leaving the airhead Yojini to flail dramatically on the ground.
"Always think two moves ahead," Sharvani instructed, as Devika grappled with Charani in practice. "The body is a weapon, but the mind is the true battlefield."
Dhanurveda: The ancient art of archery was next. Devika was taught to steady her breath and focus her energy on a single point. Each arrow she released seemed to carry her intent, striking true every time.
"Your target isn't just the physical object," Kaivalya added, watching from the sidelines. "It's the energy surrounding it."
Silambam: A stick-based martial art that required speed and precision. Devika trained with a long staff, sparring against Sharvani, who twirled her staff effortlessly.
"Speed comes from balance," Sharvani said. "You're fast, but balance your core, and you'll become unstoppable."
A Glimpse of Sharvani's Power
One day, during an intense sparring session, Devika asked, "Sharvani, do you ever use your full strength?"
Sharvani paused, a rare moment of hesitation crossing her face. "You're not ready to see that."
Devika pouted. "Just a little demonstration?"
Mandini, lounging nearby, chimed in, "Come on, Sharvani. Show us the big guns!"
With a sigh, Sharvani stepped forward, her muscles visibly tensing. She grabbed a nearby boulder the size of a house and threw it into the sky with effortless grace. As it reached its apex, she leapt after it, striking it with a single finger. The boulder shattered into a thousand glittering pieces that rained down like stars.
Devika stared, slack-jawed. "That was only a fraction of your strength?"
Sharvani smirked. "Less than one percent, actually. And no, you don't get to spar with me at full strength unless you're really ready."
Kaivalya's Timeless Wisdom
Kaivalya, though less physically involved, guided Devika through meditative practices to align her spiritual energy with the flow of time and space.
"Strength and skill are important," Kaivalya said one evening, her voice calm and steady, "but understanding the rhythm of existence is what separates a warrior from a master."
She taught Devika to meditate while manipulating the flow of time. In one exercise, Devika moved through a slowed-down reality, catching falling leaves before they hit the ground. In another, she lived an entire year in a single moment, gaining profound insight into the fleeting nature of life.
The Bonds of Training
The months within the realm brought the group closer together. Sharvani's strictness was tempered by Mandini's playful interruptions, while Vidyata and Charani offered steady encouragement.
One evening, as Devika sat by a glowing stream, Sharvani approached with a rare smile. "You've come far, Devika. Your strength isn't just physical. It's in your spirit."
Devika smiled back, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment.
Mandini popped up behind them, holding two glowing fruits. "Time to celebrate! First round's on me!"
Sharvani groaned. "Mandini, you didn't even do anything today."
Kaivalya, observing from a distance, chuckled softly. "Balance in all things, even in humor," she murmured.
Preparing for the Next Phase
As their time in the realm drew to a close, Devika felt a newfound confidence in her abilities. Yet she knew the path ahead would only grow more challenging.
Sharvani clapped her on the back. "Next up? Preparing for divine combat. You think you've seen tough? You haven't seen anything yet."
Devika grinned, determination shining in her eyes. "I'm ready."
The group stepped out of the shimmering realm, ready to face whatever trials awaited them in the celestial world.