[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable":3,"chapter-mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-12":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"english","Mahabharat: Shiva's Last Variable",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},1857056,2464,"Chapter 12: Trip To Vrishni Kingdom... To Surasena Kingdom... Meeting Kunti...","mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-12",12,"\u003Cp>(A\u002FN):\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drop a meme here that you find funny. Or reflects your mood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-------------------------------------------------\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the gates of Hastinapur—The army stood ready.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Banners fluttered. Horses stamped.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And at the center—Bhishma’s chariot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stepped forward—Preparing to depart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"WAIT!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A blur of small feet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara came running.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Without slowing—He leapt. And landed inside the chariot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...I’m coming.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma blinked caught off guard by the sudden breech.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...You are not.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara crossed his arms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...I am.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause and Bhishma tried to reason with him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Stay here. Play with Pandu and Dhritarashtra.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara shook his head. Hard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...No.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—The ultimate weapon which never failed him when ever he had a argument with his two mothers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A full—tantrum.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...I WANNA COME!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The soldiers looked away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Very carefully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not to react to the all mighty Bhishma’s helplessness facing his own brother who is just five years old.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma closed his eyes briefly as his mothers warning rang in his mind about not to upset his little brother.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...This is harder than war.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A sigh escaped him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Sigh!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Fine.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara instantly brightened jumped excitedly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Yay!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Half a Day Later...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The journey flowed smoothly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fields gave way to forests.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Forests to hills.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Until—They reached the borders of the Vrishni Kingdom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The army halted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Protocol demanded it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No army can enter the border without permission if one did it was a serious breech which might result in war.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma stepped down—Taking Devara with him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A royal carriage awaited.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Prepared by the hosts.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They entered. And moved inward as the carriage heading to the royal palace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara looked outside—Eyes wide.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...It’s green.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everywhere. Lush. Alive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unlike Hastinapur’s structured grandeur—This land breathed freely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...This place feels like they were blessed with Mother Bhūdevi...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma glanced at him—Saying nothing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But noting everything.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the palace gates—They were received.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>King Devaka stood tall—Beside his queen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devaka he stepped forward with a smile on his face.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Bhishma.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Respect in his tone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma returned the greeting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"King Devaka.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Formal. Balanced.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Showcasing the political importance of this meeting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—A small presence stepped forward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Hi.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara. Looking up at them with a smile on his face.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devaka blinked looking at the kid before him then got his composure back. Then smiled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Blink!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"And this must be...?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma answered—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Devaratha. My younger brother.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Son of Ganga.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devaka’s expression shifted—Subtle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Respect deepened in his tone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Welcome, prince.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara nodded happily while looking around.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Thanks.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Meeting Chamber...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soon—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They moved escorted into the meeting chamber.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To where decisions were made.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The chamber held:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>King Devaka and His prime minister,\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His sons: Devavan, Upadeva, Sudeva, Devavardhana\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara sat quietly. Listening.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...This is grown-up talking.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma spoke clearly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This alliance shall bind our kingdoms with blood.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devaka nodded happily.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Nod\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"And strengthen both.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Terms were laid:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🤝 Marriage between Vidura and Devaka’s daughter\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🛡️ Mutual support in times of war\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>📅 Auspicious date to be decided by Hastinapur\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No tension. No resistance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just agreement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Smooth. Like a river without stones.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since both sides were eager for this marriage and happy about it since both were searching for the same thing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara watched boredly. Quiet. But thinking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...So this is how kingdoms talk...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No shouting. No fighting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The meeting ended after more than half an hour.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Formal farewells exchanged.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devaka bowed slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We await your word.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma nodded happily as he secured the marriage alliance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You shall have it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara waved excitedly at them feeling meeting is finally over.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Bye!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The princes blinked. Then waved back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Blink!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Slightly confused when did they become close with this little prince who was waving his had excitedly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The chariot moved again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Leaving Vrishni kingdom behind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ahead—The Surasena Kingdom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Where another alliance waited.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And beyond that—A storm named Gandhara.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another Half Day Travel...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dusk stretched across the sky—Painting it in deep oranges and fading gold.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As Bhishma’s army approached—The Surasena Kingdom revealed itself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At first glance—It felt familiar.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Like the lands of the Vrishnis.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Green. Alive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But then—The river.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Ganga here—Did not flow. It roared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Waves clashed. Currents twisted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wild. Unforgiving.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...The water in the river looks ferocious. Do mother have any anger on this kingdom?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara whispered in low voice to Bhishma.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma glanced at the waters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Not angry.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It was our mother’s might and power.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The path forward was clear—Or rather—Not.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No one crossed here.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instead—A longer road curved around the river.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Safer. Slower.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Necessary.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Waiting there—A royal carriage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And beside it—Kuntibhoja\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The king stepped forward as Bhishma approached.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Bhishma of Hastinapur.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Respectful. Measured.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma inclined his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"King Kuntibhoja.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Their greetings were brief. But understanding passed quickly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As they boarded the carriage—Kuntibhoja spoke.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The proposal reached me...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"From Surasena.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma nodded his head he was the one who contact him since he was Kunti’s birth father.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Nod\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"And you accepted.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kuntibhoja exhaled slowly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Sigh!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I did.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His gaze drifted slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"My daughter...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...has been distant.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara tilted his head. Listening.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Quiet. Burdened. For reasons she does not share.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Perhaps this alliance... will bring her peace.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma said nothing. But he understood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The carriage moved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not forward—But around. Through winding paths.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Through forests.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For nearly an hour—Before the kingdom revealed itself fully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The palace stood—Elegant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Less rigid than Hastinapur. Less wild than Vrishni.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Balanced and unique on its own.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara looked around.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...This place feels...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...quiet.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Night settled. The halls lit with lamps.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Royal Dinning Hall...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Food was served.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And soon—Bhishma and Kuntibhoja sat in discussion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Voices calm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The alliance stands through this marriage....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The date will be decided in future....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The future secured for both kingdoms....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Simple words. Carrying heavy meaning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Meanwhile—Devara had been sitting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Listening. Trying.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...This is boring.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stood. Turned to Bhishma.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I’m going to meet Mother.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before Bhishma could respond—He ran.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just like that.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma blinked. Then sighed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Sigh!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Of course you are.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A faint chuckle followed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Chuckle!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Try not to bring the river inside the palace.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Too late.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara was already gone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Palace Garden...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The palace garden of Surasena stretched wide—Lush. Fragrant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But beyond its beauty—The Ganga.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not gentle here. Not calm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It surged.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wild currents crashing against stone edges—As if carrying secrets too heavy to hold.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And toward it—Ran Devara excitedly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Mother!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His voice carried excitement. Not fear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because to him—the river was his mother.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the same moment—Walking along the garden path—Was Kunti.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her steps were slow. Measured.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A maid followed behind her—Softly urging—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Princess... we must not delay.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Kunti’s mind was elsewhere.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not in the present.Not in the palace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—Five years ago.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A river. A basket.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A child. Her child.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her fingers tightened slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...I had no choice...I had to...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the heart—Does not accept reasons. Only remembers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—Movement. A blur.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti looked up to see who it was.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A boy—Running. Straight toward—The raging Ganga.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her breath caught.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Wait!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No response. He didn’t even slow down.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Without thinking—She ran after him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Stop!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The maid panicked behind her—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Princess! Please—slow down!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Kunti didn’t stop.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because all she could see—Was a child—Running toward water.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And memory—Twisted her heart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...Not again...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara reached the bank.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The water roared. Spray kissed the air.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Any normal person—Would hesitate. Would step back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—Devara stepped forward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Without fear. Without doubt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti reached just in time—Her hand stretching out—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"NO—!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her fingers almost touched him—But before she could stop him—Devara stepped into the river.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The water—Did not swallow him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Did not drag him. Did not resist him. It parted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Like a mother opening her arms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The currents softened around him—Turning from fury—To embrace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara stood there—Smiling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Mother I am back.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti froze. Her hand still outstretched.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her breath caught somewhere between past and present.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because what she saw—Was not possible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not natural. Not real.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The river—The same river—That had taken her child away after she put him there—Now...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Welcomed another.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti’s eyes widened. Not in fear. But in something deeper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Confusion. Pain. Hope.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All at once.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her voice trembled—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Who... are you?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara turned to look who it was.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Standing at the edge—Kunti\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Eyes wide. Breath uneven.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As if she had seen something she was not meant to.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A faint pulse echoed in Devara’s mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[–DUM!–DUM!–]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🎯 [Task Generated...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Guide Kunti and lighten her burden\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🎁 Reward: +16 Karma Points]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara blinked. Then looked at her again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Blink!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...So it’s her...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The one who had let go. The one who still held on.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A smile bloomed on his face.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bright. Unbothered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I’m Devaratha.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"But everyone calls me Devara.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He tilted his head slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You can too.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti didn’t respond. Not yet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because her eyes—Were searching.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not his words. Him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara pointed lightly at the river.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I came to say hi to mother.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Then I’ll go back. My brother is busy talking inside.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The maid behind Kunti froze.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti’s breath hitched.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...Mother...?’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before thought could settle—Kunti moved. Fast.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hands reaching—Grabbing his shoulders.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Turning him. Checking. Searching.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His chest. His ears.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Looking for—Kavacha. Kundala.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Where—?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Where are they—?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her voice broke. Desperate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara squirmed in her hands.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Hey—! This is manhandling! It’s a crime!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He tried to pull back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Kunti didn’t stop.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because logic—Had already lost to hope.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—The water surged.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not violently. But decisively.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A stream rose—Separating them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gently—Yet firmly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti stumbled back slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The air grew still.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And from the river—A form emerged.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Radiant. Unquestionable. Goddess Ganga appeared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her gaze fell upon Kunti.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cold. Clear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"He is not your son.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No anger. No softness. Just truth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"He is mine. Born from me.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ganga Putra1.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti froze hearing the announcement of Goddess Ganga.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The illusion—The hope—Shattered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her hands lowered slowly. Her head bowed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Forgive me...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her voice soft. Heavy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She did not ask questions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because she already knew—She had no right to.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ganga turned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Without waiting. Without explaining.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The river embraced Devara again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Ripples!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And in a ripple—They vanished.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The world softened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Goddess Ganga’s Domain...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Calm waters. Gentle glow.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ganga’s expression changed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The cold edge—Gone. Replaced by warmth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She knelt slightly. A gentle smile forming.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"How was your day?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Simple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But filled with something deeper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because even if it was just one day—It was still—Time away from her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara grinned hearing her question.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Grin!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It was fun!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He began immediately—Talking. About everything.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The palace. The food. The people.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...And there was this river—\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...but not as good as you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ganga chuckled softly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Chuckle!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her hand brushing his hair.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Listening. To every word. As if nothing else mattered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The waters glowed gently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soft currents. Floating light.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At its center—Devara sat.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And in front of him—Ganga\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Holding a small bowl. Feeding him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Open your mouth.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...I am not a baby anymore.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Open.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Okay.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He complied instantly looking at her stern look.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because some battles—Are not meant to be won.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From the distance—A familiar shape approached.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crocodile. Slow. Relaxed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...Finally...peace...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It floated lazily—Enjoying the rare moment of not being used.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—It saw him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara. Eating. Looking content.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crocodile froze.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...No....Not again.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Slowly—It began to turn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Trying to leave. Quietly. Gracefully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A small hand shot out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-GRAB!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Got you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crocodile’s soul left its body for a second.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...This is injustice.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara climbed on top of it. Settling comfortably.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Stay.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crocodile did not move. Not because it couldn’t.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But because it had accepted its fate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...This is my life now.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ganga watched the entire scene.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—She sighed. But her eyes—Were smiling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Sigh!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"At least sit properly while eating.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara adjusted slightly—Still seated on the crocodile.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It’s comfortable. He’s warm.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crocodile stared into the void.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...I am not furniture. And for god’s sake I am cold blooded creature.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ganga continued feeding him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Listening as he spoke—About:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The palaces he went\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The peoples he met\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The foods he eat\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...And there was this lady—\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...She was sad.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ganga’s hand slowed for a second. But she didn’t interrupt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"And?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...I think she needed a hug.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Simple. Honest.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ganga smiled faintly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Not everyone knows how to accept one.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara tilted his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...That’s strange.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For a moment—Nothing moved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Except the gentle current.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After some time...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara stepped out of the Ganga.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The moment his feet touched the ground—The river behind him surged again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wild. Untamed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As if it had briefly softened—Only for him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He turned—Then paused.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because they were still there.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti And her maid. Waiting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not leaving. Not forgetting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti stepped forward. Her voice quieter now.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I... am sorry.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"For earlier.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara blinked. Then smiled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Blink!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It’s okay.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Simple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No weight. No judgment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And just like that—She was forgiven.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They began walking toward the palace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Side by side.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The maid trailing slightly behind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The night had deepened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And with it—Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not uncomfortable. But heavy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara glanced at her. Not once. But twice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Why are you sad?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Direct. Unfiltered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti paused. Just slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her fingers tightened. Her gaze lowered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She stopped. Because the truth—Would not come out easily.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The maid stepped in quickly—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Princess, the palace awaits—\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Trying to shift the moment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Kunti didn’t follow.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instead—She spoke. Soft.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I did something...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...wrong.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her voice trembled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Something that may affect... my future.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...my marriage.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But she said no more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because some truths—Are too heavy to name.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara stopped walking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Hmm.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He looked at her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then at the path ahead. Then back at her. Thinking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not deeply. But honestly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Why not tell him?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti froze hearing his question.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...What?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara continued—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your future husband. Tell him the truth.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Before marriage.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because that—Was not something said lightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara raised a finger.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"But make him promise. If he says no... he won’t tell anyone.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Then you’ll know. If he’s good.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The chamber was calm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Measured voices. Careful words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As they made their way to the chamber.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma and Kuntibhoja sat across from one another—Discussing the future like it was a map already drawn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the side—Devara had quietly taken his place—Sitting beside Bhishma.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Swinging his legs. Listening. Trying.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Still boring.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The doors opened softly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti stepped in. Composed. But not calm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kuntibhoja turned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ah... my daughter.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He gestured toward Bhishma.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Princess Kunti.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She stepped forward. Bowed respectfully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Mahamahim Bhishma.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma inclined his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Princess.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Behind her—The maid leaned closer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Barely a whisper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Think carefully...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Do not rush this.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because she had seen it—That shift. That decision forming.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti stood still.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For a breath. Then another.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her fingers tightened slightly—Then released.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She lifted her gaze.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not at her father. Not at the floor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—At Bhishma.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I have a request.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The room stilled for a moment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Before the marriage...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...I wish to meet Prince Pandu.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not confusion. But surprise.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Alone.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"To speak with him. What I say...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her voice steadied.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...will decide whether this marriage should proceed.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The words landed. Heavy. Unexpected.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kuntibhoja froze hearing her daughter’s words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The maid looked down—Heart racing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even the air seemed to pause. Because this—Was not tradition.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was... agency.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhishma did not answer immediately. His eyes rested on her—Studying.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not her words. Her resolve.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...This is not hesitation...This is decision.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A moment passed. Then—He nodded. Since the request was reasonable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Nod\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Very well.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The room exhaled—But not fully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your request is reasonable.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I will send word to Hastinapur. Prince Pandu will arrive. At the earliest.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti lowered her head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Thank you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But inside—Something had changed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because for the first time—She was not being carried by fate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She had stepped forward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>**********************************************************************************************************************************************************\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(Author note:)\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I hope you guys give me your opinion and idea’s.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thanks for reading the Chapter!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Please give a review!!! And power stone too!!!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Guys it will motivate me more?\u003C\u002Fp>",2634,"2026-06-10T05:05:13.417Z",1,"novelbin.me","2fd30b0a42d57f6cba32e02fd02ba610a8ad6dad5bd604e15ae2862ba9c9b646","mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-13","mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-11",149,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fmahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-cover.jpg"]