[{"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-5":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},1857049,2464,"Chapter 5: Kripi And Drona Shocked... Mysterious Protector...","mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-5",5,"\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>Meanwhile...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The two boys walked along the riverbank.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The sound of flowing water accompanied them—steady, calm, endless.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After a short distance, Devara stopped near a large flat stone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Sit here,\" he said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama obeyed without question, climbing onto the stone and watching curiously.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara turned—And began walking toward the river.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama blinked seeing his new friend.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Where is he going?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His eyes followed Devara’s small figure as he stepped closer to the water.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A thought appeared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Simple. Innocent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...Does milk come from the river?’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He tilted his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...Maybe it does...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all—This boy didn’t seem normal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara stopped at the edge.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The water touched his feet gently. He looked down.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Mom.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His voice was soft. But it carried.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I’m hungry.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"And... I brought a friend.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The river remained still for a moment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—Bubbles.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soft at first. Then more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama leaned forward. Eyes widening. The water stirred.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And slowly—Two small pots rose from the river.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Filled. With milk.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They floated gently toward the shore.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama froze seeing this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...I...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His mind tried to understand. Failed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...I guessed right...?’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stared at the pots. Then at the river.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then at Devara.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Milk... comes from the river...?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara turned hearing him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And for a second—He blinked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Blink!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—He laughed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"No.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He picked up one of the pots and walked back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Milk doesn’t come from the river.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama’s face turned slightly red.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Oh.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara handed him the pot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"My mother sent it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama looked at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Your mother?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara nodded casually.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Nod\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"She’s Goddess Ganga.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The river flowed quietly behind them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama stared at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Goddess...?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The word felt too big. Too distant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And yet—The milk in his hands was warm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Real.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara sat beside him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This is when I usually drink milk.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A small pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"But today... I wanted to drink it with you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama looked down at the pot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His reflection shimmered faintly in the surface.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...With me...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His fingers tightened slightly around it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Something inside him—Shifted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not excitement. Not disbelief. Something quieter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Something deeper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He lifted the pot slowly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Took a small sip. And froze.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...It’s...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His eyes widened in realisation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...sweet.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another sip.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...warm...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A third—\"...good.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara smiled seeing his reaction.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Told you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama didn’t reply. He just kept drinking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Slowly. Carefully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As if afraid it might disappear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Beside them—The river flowed. Gentle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And far beneath—Ganga smiled seeing her son has made his first friend.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A faint red flicker crossed Devara’s vision.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>⚖️ [Karma Genesis System]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[-DUM!-DUM!]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[Action Completed: Provided nourishment to Ashwatthama]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[Impact: Emotional + Physical]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[🎁 Reward:]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[Karma Points +15]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[🔍 Note:]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[Intent: Pure]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[Bonus Applied +10 Karma Points]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The screen faded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara didn’t react outwardly. But he understood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This—Was just the beginning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama was still drinking slowly—Carefully. As if every drop mattered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Beside him—Devara sat quietly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But his focus...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Had shifted inward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A faint red shimmer appeared before his eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Invisible to the world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He opened it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[KARMA GENESIS SYSTEM – STATUS PANEL]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[🧾 Host Information:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Name:Devaratha1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Age: 5\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lineage: Human, ???\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>📊 [Attributes:]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Strength:Above Average1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Agility:High1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Durability:Above Average1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Attack:Moderate1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Defense:Moderate1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Stamina:High1]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’For a five-year-old... these stats were abnormal.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[🏷️ [Titles] :\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🌊Ganga Putra1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Increased affinity with water.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Enhanced vitality within aquatic environments\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Passive blessing from Goddess Ganga\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[🧬 [Abilities]:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🐚\"Jal-Samvad\"1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Allows communication with aquatic life forms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Host is recognized as an ally unless hostility is provoked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Aquatic beings may assist the host in times of need.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🌊\"Neer-Jeevan\"1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Grants the ability to breathe, live, and move freely underwater.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->No stamina drain within water environments.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>✨\"Shuddha Aabha\"1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->A calming, purifying aura surrounds the host.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Induces ease, trust, and goodwill in others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Host experiences natural resistance toward Adharma.]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[🎯 [Talents]:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🍀Supreme Luck1\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>⚔️ Supreme Mastery Talent (Kalas & Astras)\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Unmatched potential in all arts, weapons, and astras.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-->Requires learning, training, and experience to activate.]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[🗡️ [Possessions]:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Astras: None\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Weapons: None\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kalas Known: None\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Weapons Mastered: None\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Summons: None]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[⚖️ [Karma Balance]:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>25 Points]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A small number.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—It felt heavy. Because each point...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Meant change.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[🛒 [System Store]:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Status: 🔒 Locked]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[🔓 Unlock Condition: 5000 Karma Points Required]\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara blinked his eyes nearly poped out seeing the required numbers to unlock the system store.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Five thousand?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That was far. Very far. The interface flickered softly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As if reminding him—\"Walk first.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama finished drinking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He held the pot carefully. Still looking at it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Can I... have this again tomorrow?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara looked at him. Then smiled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yeah.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Simple. Natural. As if it was obvious.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dronacharya’sAdobe1...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside a small hut—Time felt heavier than usual.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi searched. Again. And again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Every corner. Every pot. Every container.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Empty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her hands trembled slightly as she opened the last small jar.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Nothing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence filled the kitchen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her gaze fell on a small sack of rice flour.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A thought surfaced.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...If I mix this with water,...He won’t know...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her fingers reached for it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Paused. Shook.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And slowly—Dropped.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...No...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her voice broke as her chest become heavy with guilt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I can’t...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tears slipped down her cheeks.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I won’t lie to my child...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She covered her face.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The weight of helplessness pressing down.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—Footsteps.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Step. -Step.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Step...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi turned to see who it was.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the entrance—Dronacharya stood. Dust clung to his clothes. His posture steady.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But his eyes—Tired.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In his hands—A small bundle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stepped in. Opened it revealing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wheat grains. Rice. A few fruits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Enough to survive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—Not what she needed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi’s eyes dimmed. She tried to speak.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Stopped.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona watched her. Quietly. He didn’t ask.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because he already knew.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A memory surfaced—A few days ago...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His son’s voice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What does milk taste like?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The question echoed again as he over heard his son’s question to himself as he muttered in low voice but he heard it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And this time—It hurt more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona closed his eyes briefly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Guilt. Sharp. Unforgiving.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not as a teacher. Not as a Brahmin. But as a father.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He exhaled slowly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Sigh!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Kripi.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She looked at him. He spoke calmly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the decision behind his words was not.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I remember... something.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"An old promise.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi’s brows furrowed slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Frown!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona continued to explain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"From Drupada.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The name lingered as if he was thinking about past.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"King of Panchala.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her eyes widened slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"He once said...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona’s voice lowered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Half his kingdom... would be mine.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi understood instantly were the conversation is going.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...You’re not thinking—\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I am.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The answer was firm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"For our son.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That was enough.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi stepped forward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"No.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her voice shook.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You left that behind for a reason. That path... it’s not your dharma.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona’s expression hardened slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Then what is?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A rare crack.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"To watch my son lack even milk?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The words hit. Hard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi fell silent hearing him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because she had no answer. Only tears.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona turned away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I will go to Panchala tomorrow. Whatever it takes... I will not let this continue.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi clenched her hands. She wanted to stop him. She should stop him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—The mother in her...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Stayed silent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because deep down—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...He deserves better.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence filled the hut once more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Heavy. Final.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And then—A voice. Bright. Alive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Mother! Father!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Both of them froze.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Turning toward the entrance—There he was.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Running in. Smiling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In his hands—A small pot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Look!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He held it up proudly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I drank milk!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Time stopped.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi stared at her son in shock.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona blinked caught off guard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Milk?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama nodded eagerly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Nod\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"My friend gave it to me!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi stepped forward. Her hands trembling as she remember that kid she saw with her son earlier.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Friend?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama grinned happily.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Grin!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"His name is Devara!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The name settled into the room.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unknown.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But powerful.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona’s eyes narrowed slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Devara?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama continued, excited—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"He brought it from the river!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi blinked hearing her son explanation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Blink! -Blink!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...From... the river?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama nodded confidently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Nod\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"His mother gave it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona’s gaze sharpened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Who is his mother?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama answered without hesitation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Goddess Ganga.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The hut fell silent. Not disbelief. But realization.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi’s breath caught in her throat.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona stood still. The air itself seemed to shift.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because this—Was no longer about milk.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was—Something else. Something far beyond them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona looked at the pot. Then at his son.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then toward the river—Even though he couldn’t see it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His voice lowered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Devara...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The name lingered. Heavy with meaning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama did not understand.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not the weight of what had just happened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not the rarity. Not the unseen hands that had reached out for him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To him—It was simple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"My friend gave me milk.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And that was enough.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi carefully took the empty pot from his hands.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Held it for a moment longer than needed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As if confirming it was real after seeing a small amount of milk remaining.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then placed it inside the kitchen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No words were exchanged.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But both she and Drona had already decided—They needed to see.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the Riverbank...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The three walked together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama leading. Excited.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This way!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The sound of the river grew louder.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The wind softer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And soon—They arrived.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Near the shore—A group of children still lingered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Pushing. Pulling. Kicking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Trying—And failing—To destroy the small sand castle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Break it!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It won’t fall!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Push harder!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama’s expression changed instantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Hey!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Anger flashed across his face.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"They’ll break it!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stepped forward—Ready to stop them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But before he could—The children noticed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dronacharya. Standing behind him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Their faces froze caught in the act.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—They ran.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Scattering like leaves in the wind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gone. Silence returned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama rushed forward—Checking the castle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Sigh!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It’s okay...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Relief filled his voice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi watched quietly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—Her gaze shifted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To Drona.Because he hadn’t moved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not even a step.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He stood there—Staring.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the castle. Eyes wide. Not in confusion. But in recognition.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...This...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His voice was low.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...is not ordinary.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi frowned slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...It’s just sand—No.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona’s voice cut in. Firm. Certain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Look again.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She did. But saw nothing different.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just a child’s creation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fragile. Simple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...I don’t see anything.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona stepped forward slowly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His gaze sharpened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because to him—It was clear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Around the castle—A presence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Subtle. Vast.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Invisible to most. But not to him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The ground itself seemed to breathe.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The sand held together—Not by structure.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But by will.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona’s voice dropped to a whisper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Bhūdevi...1\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The name carried reverence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because what he saw—Was not illusion. Not imagination.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But truth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The castle—Was being protected.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>By the Earth itself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A faint aura surrounded it—Like unseen hands gently holding it together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not allowing it to fall. Not allowing it to break.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi felt it then. Not clearly. Not like Drona.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But enough. A subtle heaviness.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A quiet presence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...This... is...?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona didn’t take his eyes off it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"A blessing.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"No...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His expression grew more serious.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Something more.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama looked between them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Confused.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...It’s just our castle.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona turned toward him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Who made this?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama answered proudly—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Me... and Devara!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The name again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona’s gaze deepened while he was in deep thought.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Where is he?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ashwatthama pointed toward the river.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"He went that way.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drona looked once more at the castle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the unseen protection. At the impossible stability.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And understood—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...This child...is not ordinary.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kripi held Ashwatthama closer instinctively.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not out of fear. But of awareness.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>GoddessBhūdevi1Domain...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Far beneath the layers of soil and stone—Beyond roots that whispered secrets of ages—Lay a realm unseen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The domain ofBhūdevi1.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Calm. Endless. Alive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At its center—A vast, shimmering surface hovered in the air.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A Māyā Screen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And within it—A child laughed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Hahaha!!!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi leaned slightly forward, chin resting on her palm, eyes soft with quiet amusement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...There he goes again.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the screen—A younger Devara zipped through the water, dragging an unwilling crocodile behind him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi chuckled looking at the helpless crocodile.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Chuckle!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Poor creature...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A flick of her fingers—The screen shifted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara now—Hiding behind Ganga.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Peeking out. Making faces.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi’s lips curved forming a smile.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Mischievous...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But her expression softened further.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"And bright.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Five years. For five years—She had watched.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At first—Out of curiosity. Because something about his birth had felt... different.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A child—Born in the riverbed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her domain. Her soil. Her foundation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi tilted her head slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Which means...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A small, satisfied smile appeared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"He is mine too.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The logic was flawless.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At least—to her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And yet—Her expression shifted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Into something mildly annoyed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"But does Ganga agree?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Māyā Screen flickered—Showing a memory.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Flicker! -Flicker!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Flicker!...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi standing at the edge of flowing waters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Calling out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ganga, let me come in.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And Ganga—Smiling. Too sweetly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Another time.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—Gone. The water closing like a curtain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi narrowed her eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another memory.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Just for a moment.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"No.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I only want to see him.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"He’s sleeping.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ganga.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Busy.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Back to the present—Bhūdevi crossed her arms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Excuses.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her foot tapped lightly against the ground.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Tap! -Tap!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Tap! -Tap!...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"She knew. She absolutely knew.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—A faint smirk.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Smirk!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"She was guarding him.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not from danger. But from—her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi sighed thinking about it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Sigh!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Selfish river...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But there was no real anger. Only a quiet complaint.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Keeping him all to yourself for five years...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her gaze returned to the screen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now showing—Devara stepping out of the river for the first time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi’s eyes lit up slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Finally.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She leaned forward. Interest renewed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Now... things change.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The scene shifted—To the sand castle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To the children. To the attempts to destroy it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And her expression softened again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because she knew. What they did not.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Of course it won’t fall.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A faint golden glow pulsed beneath the image.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Invisible to mortals.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You built it onme.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her fingers moved gently—As if holding something delicate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"How could I let it break?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—A quieter voice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Not whenhemade it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Māyā Screen flickered once more—Now showing Devara laughing with Ashwatthama.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi watched everything silently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—A thought surfaced.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ganga had her turn...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her smile returned. Slow. Playful.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Now it’s mine.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The ground beneath the mortal world shifted slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not enough to alarm. Not enough to be noticed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But enough—To signal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bhūdevi straightened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Let’s see, little one...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her eyes gleamed faintly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>**********************************************************************************************************************************************************\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(Author note:) This story was a heavy A.U and all those characters belong’s to the OG creator of the epic. Except the Mc and Oc.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And I would never disrespect them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I hope you guys give me your opinion and idea’s.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>WARNING: If you don’t feel like you dislike A.U on Mahabharat then there is a chance you might not like the story.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And the story won’t just follow the book or any serials.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It’s A.U so might feel a mix kind of feeling. Bye guys I hope you enjoy the story.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>PLAN: WEEKLY TWO ChapterS WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY.\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>",2494,"2026-06-10T05:05:13.417Z",1,"novelbin.me","64a0bfce000e78a5e5dceefb12e2c8fbb3e5d46e91ca446c2b4539a6b420e93b","mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-6","mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-4",149,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fmahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-cover.jpg"]