Chapter 8 - Guru's Command

**Part 1: Leela's Plea**

In the heart of the forest, you'd find KalaVijay, a town famous for its skilled artisans and their beautiful creations that found their way far and wide. Every house was a masterpiece of intricate designs, and each street resembled a vibrant art gallery. Among the townsfolk, Leela was their leader, known for her grace and wisdom. She didn't just wear gold and fine silk to show her status; she could afford such luxuries because she was the leader of both the town and the surrounding forests, even in tough times.

Leela's charm was enhanced by her long braid adorned with golden hairpins—a nod to the town's artistic heritage. As a leader, she bore a responsibility passed down for generations. She took up this role after her father's untimely death, ensuring the town thrived just as it always had.

One day, in her office filled with beautifully carved wooden furniture and statues, the townspeople gathered to report a tragedy—the fifth death that week. Jaikishan's son had been killed by an unusually large boar that had been terrorizing the town. Fear gripped the hearts of the townsfolk.

"We can't endure this any longer," one of them said, voice trembling. "We must act."

Their concerns echoed through the room, and they turned to Leela with hope in their eyes.

Leela understood the menace the boar posed, having heard about its size and ferocity. Memories of friends and fellow villagers who had lost their lives to this threat flooded her mind. The deaths were heartbreaking, especially in a close-knit town like KalaVijay, where every life was cherished.

Her duty as the town's leader meant she couldn't show her emotions publicly, but she felt the pain deeply. She stood up with determination. "I will go to Parshurama and ask for his help," she declared. "I know reaching him in the forest won't be easy, but we have no other choice. I'll leave right away."

Her decision brought relief to the townspeople. They had faith in Leela, their dedicated leader.

Leela turned to the assembled crowd, many of them lifelong friends. "I need your help," she said. "Who will come with me to seek Parshurama's aid?"

Several townspeople stepped forward without hesitation. "I'll go," one said firmly. "And I will too," echoed another.

Leela nodded, touched by their support. "Thank you, my friends. Together, we will ensure KalaVijay's safety."

**Part 2: Leela's Journey to Parshurama**

Guided by Leela's determination, the group ventured toward the edge of the forest, where ancient trees stood tall like silent guardians. As they ventured deeper into the woods, the atmosphere grew more peaceful.

They soon arrived at a serene glade, illuminated by dappled sunlight. At the center sat Parshurama, a revered sage with an ash-covered appearance and a calm demeanor that masked his immense power.

Leela approached Parshurama with reverence, kneeling before him respectfully. She addressed him as "Baba," like a father figure, and explained the grave danger facing KalaVijay—the boar that had taken five lives in a week. She implored him to lend his wisdom and strength to protect the town.

Parshurama, though penetrating in his gaze, exuded a deep serenity. He listened patiently to Leela's plea, his voice carrying calm authority. He explained his philosophy of not intervening unless absolutely necessary or dictated by destiny. He believed in guiding individuals toward their own strength and righteousness.

Leela understood his principles and continued, recalling her father's reliance on Parshurama's wisdom. She emphasized the people's faith in him.

Parshurama acknowledged her dedication and the weight of her words. He agreed to consider her request but explained his reluctance to interfere in the affairs of the outside world without a compelling reason. He sensed a deeper purpose in her plea and suggested they wait for a moment.

Leela remained kneeling as Parshurama meditated with closed eyes. Time seemed to stand still in the forest glade, where only the rustling leaves and distant bird calls broke the silence.

After what felt like an eternity, Parshurama opened his eyes and spoke with resolve. He sensed a destiny intertwined with Leela's plea. He agreed to help the town through a different path, one that involved a young man named Rama, who had sought his guidance. This challenge would be Rama's first trial, and Leela would soon meet him.**Part 3: Leela's First Encounter with Rama**

The forest was alive with the filtering sunlight, casting intricate patterns on the forest floor as Parshurama led Leela and her companions along a winding path deeper into the woods. Their journey was tranquil, with the ancient trees standing like guardians.

They eventually reached a serene glade bathed in dappled sunlight, where Rama had been practicing his skills. Leela couldn't help but notice the new cabin, replacing the old one that had been destroyed. Her curiosity got the better of her, and she remarked, "This is new."

Parshurama nodded with a hint of amusement. "Yes, the old one was destroyed, and this new one was crafted by Rama's own hands."

Continuing along the path, they arrived at the picturesque lake where Rama had been engaged in intense training. The sight was awe-inspiring, with Rama's every movement embodying superhuman speed and skill.

Leela watched in fascination, captivated by the display of Rama's prowess. Unbeknownst to her, her presence had gone unnoticed by Rama in his intense training.

Finally, Parshurama spoke again, commanding Rama to cease his practice. In a flash, Rama turned towards his guru and mentor, kneeling with his head bowed before him. His reflexes were so swift that neither Leela nor Rama had a chance to see each other's faces.

Parshurama pointed at the dagger-shaped lotus tied to Rama's thigh. "Is this the form you have chosen for Sastrapalava?"

Rama, still kneeling, replied with pride, "Yes, Guru. Its form is more tactical."

Parshurama inquired further, "And how proficient have you become in its use?"

Rama's voice carried a note of confidence. "I can control Sastrapalava for a few minutes, Guru."

Leela, standing nearby, couldn't help but feel a mixture of curiosity and fascination. The conversation between master and disciple was filled with references that she couldn't comprehend.

Parshurama, his eyes twinkling with amusement, instructed Rama to stand up. As Rama rose to his feet, he finally noticed Leela and her companions. Their eyes met, and in that unspoken moment, they both felt a connection that transcended words. They were captivated by each other's presence.