Upon their arrival, the palace gates swung open, and the servants and guards quickly assembled, bowing deeply to them.

As they made their way to the royal hall, Mayasur, who had remained discreetly in the background, kept his head bowed low, casting respectful glances at Devashree, sensing that her powers were the source of his own. Her aura radiated a divine presence that resonated with his own powers.

She seemed to illuminate the corridor with a divine glow, and Mayasur's heart stirred with a newfound reverence. With each step, his realization deepened.

Maya! She was pure Maya!

The realization struck him like a bolt of lightning. She was no mere mortal woman, she was the embodiment of illusion itself, the divine force behind all creation and transformation. It was a truth that filled Mayasur's heart with both wonder and humility.

His heart filled with devotion, and he folded his hands,bowing his head in reverence.

This gesture did not go unnoticed by Devashree, who nodded with a gentle smile, her eyes filled with compassion and understanding.

If she was Mahalakshmi, the Maya herself, then her consort, Shri Krishna, must be none other than Mayapati Narayan himself, the Supreme God.

With this revelation, Mayasur's respect deepened even further. He bowed deeply before Krishna, his heart filled with reverence for the divine being standing before him.

"Prabhu Narayan," Mayasur whispered, his voice trembling with awe. "Forgive my ignorance, for I did not recognize your true form. Please accept my humble respects."

Krishna offered Mayasur a reassuring smile. "There is no need for forgiveness, Mayasur."

Entering the royal hall, they found Yudhishthir seated on his throne, his eyes lighting up at the sight of his brothers. Beside him were Bheem, Nakul, and Sahadev, their expressions a mix of curiosity and relief.

"Anuj" Yudhishthira greeted. "We have been anxious for your return. Tell us, what happened at the Khandava forest?"

Krishna and Arjun shared a brief look before Arjun stepped forward and recounted the events.

After he was done, Mayasur stepped forward, and turned to Arjun. "Arjuna," Mayasur began, his voice filled with sincerity, "I owe you my life. Your valor and bravery in the face of danger saved me from certain death in the burning forest. I am forever in your debt."

Arjun shook his head gently. "Mayasur, there is no need for such words. We are all bound by the principles of dharma and compassion. I simply did what was right."

"But Arjuna," Mayasur persisted, "I cannot simply ignore the fact that you risked your life to save mine. I must repay this debt somehow."

Arjuna smiled warmly at Mayasur's earnestness. "If you truly wish to repay your debt, then you should ask Madhav."

With a nod of understanding, Mayasur turned to Krishna, "Shri Krishna, if I may be of service to you in any way, please command me."

Krishna regarded Mayasur with a knowing smile, his eyes twinkling with wisdom. "Mayasur," he began, addressing Mayasur with respect, "build a magnificent assembly hall for Dharmaraj, one that reflects his noble character and grandeur. Let it be a structure so remarkable that nothing in this world can match it."

Mayasur's eyes widened with delight at Krishna's command. "I am honored by your request, my Lord," he exclaimed, his heart filled with joy. "I will design an assembly hall that surpasses all expectations, drawing inspiration from the designs of gods, asuras, and humans alike."

With a sense of purpose, Mayasur set to work, his creative vision fueled by Krishna's words.

Drawing upon his skills as an architect, he started to craft a design that was both awe-inspiring and divine which was never seen before.

As the evening approached, the time came for Krishna, Devashree, and Subhadra to take their leave. However, the Pandavas and Draupadi were not ready to let them go so easily.

"Govind, Devashree, why must you leave so soon?" Draupadi asked, her tone laced with disappointment. "Stay with us a little longer."

"Yes, Krishna," Bheem added, his booming voice echoing in the hall. "It feels like you just arrived."

Krishna smiled warmly at them "I understand your sentiments, but we must return. I promised Mata that we would be back in a day, and look, it has been a week!"

Arjun stepped forward, his expression pleading. "Madhav, can you not stay just one more day?"

Krishna chuckled softly. "If we stay any longer, Devaki Mata and Rohini Mata will surely have my head. They must be worried sick by now."

Devashree nodded in agreement, standing gracefully beside Krishna. "Yes Dwarka awaits us."

Yudhishthir sighed and placed a hand on Krishna's shoulder. "We understand, Vasudev. But know that your presence here brings us immense joy and strength."

Krishna bowed his head slightly, acknowledging Yudhishthira's words. "And your love and hospitality mean the world to us. We will return soon."

"Promise us, Krishna, that you will come back soon. The palace feels incomplete without your presence." Bheem added, with a hint of stubbornness.

Krishna nodded, his eyes twinkling with affection. "I promise, Bhrata Bheem. We will return as soon as we can."

Meanwhile, Subhadra turned to Arjun, a playful glint in her eye. "Arjun, don't forget to practice the moves I taught you."

Arjun chuckled and rolled his eyes playfully. "Yes, yes, Guruji," he replied, his tone filled with mock obedience. "I'll be sure to practice diligently."

Subhadra laughed, the sound light and carefree. "Good, good because next time, I won't go easy on you."

Arjun's eyes sparkled with amusement. "I look forward to it, Subhadra."

Draupadi pushed aside her doubts and plastered a smile on her face, masking the turmoil that churned within her,eyes flickering between Arjun and Subhadra. There was something about their closeness, the ease with which they exchanged words and laughter, that tugged at her heartstrings.

Forcing a smile she stepped forward, taking Devashree's hands in hers. "Sakhi, take care of yourself on your journey. And come back to us soon."

Devashree smiled warmly."I will, Draupadi. Take care of yourself and everybody."

As Krishna, Devashree, and Subhadra arrived back in the opulent city of Dwarka, the sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the gleaming structures.

The palace gates swung open, welcoming them back with grandeur and splendor. Servants and guards bowed deeply, their eyes filled with respect and admiration for their beloved Lord and Lady.

Once inside the palace, Krishna instructed the servants to carefully unload the carts and bring their contents to a private chamber.

Devashree followed them curious about what the fuss was all about.

When the doors of the chamber were opened, Devashree gasped in surprise.

The room was filled with an array of colorful baby toys and children's playthings - wooden horses, intricate dolls, soft plush animals, tiny garments, miniature chariots, and a crib adorned with delicate embroidery.

"Swami!" she exclaimed, turning to him with a mix of astonishment and mild indignation. "What is all this? It looks like you have brought the whole marketplace of Indraprastha! We cannot possibly need all these things. This is... this is too much!"

Krishna let out a dramatic gasp, his eyes widening in mock surprise. "Too much? My dear Shree, you should see what I wanted to bring! Believe me, I have actually controlled myself."

"Swami, this is what you call controlling yourself?"

At that moment, Devaki entered the chamber, her presence commanding yet gentle. Her face lit up at the sight of her son and daughter-in-law. "What is all this commotion about?" she asked, her voice filled with maternal warmth.

Devashree turned to her immediately, seeking support.

"Mata, look at what Swami has brought back from Indraprastha!" Devashree exclaimed, turning to her mother-in-law. "So many toys and things for the baby! Scold him, Mata. He has gone overboard." Devashree implored, pointing towards the piles of toys.

Mata Devaki approached the assortment, her eyes scanning the myriad of playthings. She then turned to Krishna with a stern expression. "Krishna, what is this? Why have you brought so little? My grandchild deserves even more than this!"

Devashree's mouth fell open in shock, seeing the playful conspiracy between mother and son. "Mata! You are encouraging him!"

Krishna's laughter rang out, filling the room with warmth. "You see, Shree," he said, still chuckling, "even Mata thinks I showed remarkable restraint."

Devaki shook her head with a mock sigh. "Indeed, Krishna, you must bring more next time," she replied, her tone light and teasing.

Krishna grinned and turned to Devaki, "Forgive me, Mata," he said, his tone playful, "I will make sure to bring more next time."

Devashree placed her hands on her hips, a smile tugging at her lips despite her exasperation. "I give up. You both are impossible."

Devaki laughed softly and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. "Come, my dear. Let us leave Krishna to his toys for now. You must be tired from your journey. Allow me to pamper you."

As Devaki led Devashree away, Krishna watched them with a warm smile, his heart filled with love and contentment. "Rest well, Shree," he called after them. "And don't worry. I promise not to bring the whole marketplace next time."

Devashree turned back, her eyes sparkling with amusement and affection. "I will hold you to that promise, Swami."

As Devaki led Devashree away, Krishna turned his attention to the matters of the state. With a sense of duty and purpose, he delved into the intricate affairs of governance, his mind sharp and focused.

Seated at his ornate desk in the chambers designated for official business, Krishna sifted through scrolls, documents, and parchments, each containing vital information about the kingdom's administration, trade, and security. His advisors and ministers gathered around him, ready to discuss the day's agenda and seek his guidance on various issues.

"Dwarikadhish," one of the ministers began, his voice respectful yet urgent, "we have received reports of unrest in the western provinces. Bandit raids have increased, and the people are growing anxious."

Krishna listened attentively, his brow furrowing in concern. "Send word to the governors of those provinces," he instructed calmly. "Increase patrols and ensure the safety of the villagers. We cannot allow lawlessness to spread."

On the other side Devaki gently guided Devashree out of the chamber, her arm wrapped around her daughter-in-law's shoulders.

"Come, my dear," Devaki said softly, her voice a soothing balm to Devashree's overwhelmed senses. "You must be tired from your journey. Let me take care of you."

Devashree, still astonished by the multitude of toys Krishna had brought, glanced back at the chamber once more before following Devaki's lead. "Maa, it's just so much," she murmured, shaking her head slightly.

Devaki chuckled gently. "You know Krishna. When it comes to those he loves, nothing is ever too much. He just wants to make sure you and the baby have everything you could ever need."

They reached a serene, private chamber where the soft glow of oil lamps cast a peaceful ambiance.

Devaki led Devashree to a cushioned divan and helped her settle comfortably.

Devashree eased onto the cushioned divan, feeling the weariness of the day settling in her bones.

"Now, lie down and relax," Devaki instructed, her tone motherly and firm. "You need to rest."

Devaki observed her daughter-in-law with a tender smile, sensing the whirlwind of emotions swirling within her. She approached Devashree with a bowl of fragrant oil and reached out to gently massage her scalp, intending to soothe away the tensions of the day.

But Devashree instinctively flinched away. "Maa, I can manage, you don't have to do this," she protested softly, her cheeks tinted with embarrassment.

Devaki paused, her expression gentle yet resolute. "Shh, my child," she murmured, her voice carrying the warmth of maternal affection. "You call me 'maa,' yet you deny me the chance to care for you. Let me tend to you, just as I do for Krishna."

Reluctantly, Devashree lay down on the divan, her head resting on a soft pillow. Devaki sat beside her, her skilled hands beginning to gently massage Devashree's scalp with practiced ease. The soothing motions were both comforting and relaxing, and Devashree felt her initial resistance melting away.

"Maa," Devashree began softly, her eyes closing as she succumbed to the soothing touch. "I just don't want to be a burden."

Devaki paused for a moment, her hands stilling. She looked down at Devashree with a mixture of love and mild reproach. "You are never a burden, Devashree. You are my daughter, and it brings me joy to care for you, especially now when you need it most."

Devashree smiled, feeling a deep sense of belonging and love. "Thank you, Mata. Your kindness means the world to me."

Devaki continued the gentle massage, her touch filled with care and devotion. "You are about to embark on a beautiful journey of motherhood. It brings me joy to see how happy Krishna is, and I know you will be a wonderful mother."

Just then, the door to the chamber opened, and Balram entered with a bright smile, carrying his young son, Nishatha, in his arms, with Krishna following close behind."Look who has come to visit," he announced cheerfully.

Devashree's face lit up as she saw her nephew.

Balram carefully handed the child to Devashree, who cradled him tenderly in her arms. Nishatha, with his innocent eyes and chubby cheeks, cooed softly, instantly captivating Devashree's heart.

"Hello, little one," Devashree cooed, her voice gentle and loving. "Aren't you a handsome boy?" She rocked him gently, her heart swelling with affection for the baby.

Balram watched the scene with a contented smile "Nishatha wanted to meet his aunt. He has been asking for you all day," Balram teased, winking at Devashree."Don't spoil him too much, Devashree. He's already too used to being pampered."

"That is my right Dau! I get to spoil him as I want!" Devashree protested.

"Alright, alright "

Devaki looked on, her face radiant with joy as she watched Devashree with Nishatha. "You are a natural, Devashree. Just look at how comfortable he is with you."

Devashree blushed slightly, her eyes never leaving the baby in her arms. "He is such a delight. Thank you, dau, for bringing him here."

Balram grinned, his pride evident. "I thought you might enjoy some time with him. And he loves the attention."

"Bring some oil, Balram. It's time to teach Krishna and Devashree how to properly massage a baby."

After a few moments, Devaki moved closer, her hands gentle as she reached for Nishatha. Devaki took the oil from Balram and began to explain, "Massaging a baby is an important ritual. It strengthens their bones and muscles and provides them comfort. Watch closely, both of you."

Devaki placed Nishatha on a soft, padded mat. She began to demonstrate the techniques for massaging a baby, her movements careful and precise. "It's important to be gentle but firm," she explained, her hands gliding over Nishatha's tiny limbs. "This helps with circulation, muscle tone, and bonding. See how he responds?"

Nishatha gurgled happily, his tiny fists waving in the air, as Devaki continued the massage. Devashree watched intently, absorbing every detail.

"Now, Krishna, Devashree, you try," Devaki encouraged, stepping back to allow her daughter-in-law to take over.

Devashree and Krishna exchanged a quick glance, their eyes filled with a mix of nervousness and excitement. Krishna moved closer, kneeling beside Devashree as they prepared to take on the task together.

With a mixture of nervousness and excitement, Devashree mimicked Devaki's movements, her touch gentle and cautious. "Like this, Mata?"

"Perfect," Devaki reassured, her eyes shining with pride. "You are doing wonderfully."

Devaki watched with pride. "You are doing wonderfully, Devashree. And Krishna, you must also learn. It's a shared responsibility."

Krishna nodded, taking the oil from Devashree and attempting the massage with equal care.

Nishatha's delighted giggles filled the air as Devashree and Krishna took turns massaging him. Devashree's hands moved with a gentle grace, her touch tender and loving as she followed Devaki's guidance. Krishna, too, showed a surprising skill, his hands steady and sure as he mirrored Devashree's movements.

As they continued the massage, Nishatha's eyelids began to droop, his tiny body growing relaxed under the loving touch of his aunt and uncle.

Devaki gently lifted him into her arms, cradling him close to her chest. "I think someone is ready for his nap," she whispered, pressing a tender kiss to his forehead.

As Nishatha peacefully slept in Devaki's arms, the door to the chamber creaked open, admitting Revati and Mata Rohini with a dasi holding a plate behind her.

Revati's gentle smile widened as she approached. With a tender exchange, Devaki carefully transferred Nishatha into Revati's waiting arms.

Meanwhile, Mata Rohini extended the plate of rasgullas to Devashree, her expression warm and inviting. "Have a sweet, my dear," she encouraged, her voice gentle as she offered the delicacy to Devashree. "You must be tired after your journey. These will surely lift your spirits."

Devashree accepted the rasgulla graciously, her gratitude evident in her smile as she took a bite. The sweetness melted on her tongue, momentarily distracting her from the world around her.

As Mata Rohini turned to offer Krishna the rasgulla, Devashree's expression shifted suddenly.

Krishna's heart lurched with alarm as he witnessed Devashree's sudden distress.

He rushed to her side, his eyes wide with concern. "Shree, what's wrong, it is nausea again?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with worry.

Devashree's contorted in distress, her hand clutching her throat as if struggling to breathe. She attempted to speak, but only a strangled gasp escaped her lips.

Mata Devaki turned back, her brow furrowing with concern at the sudden change in Devashree's demeanor. "Devashree, are you alright?" she asked, her voice filled with worry.

Revati hurried to Devashree's side, her eyes wide with concern. "What happened?" she questioned, her voice tinged with alarm.

The rasgulla slipped from Devashree's fingers as she collapsed to the ground, her body convulsing with spasms.

"Devashree!"

"PRIYE!" Krishna's eyes widened in horror. With a gut-wrenching shout, he darted forward, his arms outstretched to catch Devashree before she hit the ground.

Her body writhed in agony, each convulsion sending shockwaves of pain through her fragile form. Her muscles tensed and contorted uncontrollably and froth bubbled at the corners of her mouth.

Krishna's mind raced, his heart heavy with dread.

"It's poison," Krishna choked out, his voice heavy with anguish.

"Someone has poisoned her."

*******

A/N

So that happened...💀💀