"Welcome, Shri Krishna, Arjun, Bheem!" Maharaj Drupad exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine warmth. "Your arrival brings great joy to Panchal. Please, come in and join us."

Arjun and Bheem dismounted, exchanging respectful greetings with King Drupada. Krishna, too, dismounted gracefully from his chariot, his eyes scanning the palace grounds as if searching for someone.

"We are honored by your hospitality, Maharaj," Krishna said. "But first, we would like to see our wives. It has been a long journey, and we are eager to ensure their well-being."

Drupad nodded understandingly. "Of course, of course. They are in the inner courtyard, preparing for the evening's festivities. I will have someone escort you."

"Arya Arjun!" Draupadi's voice rang out as she caught sight of her husband and rushed into his arms. "We were so worried Arya, and I am so happy so are back. We didn't expect you so early."

"Drau, I am glad you are okay, I couldn't bear to be apart from you for long." Arjun returned her embrace with equal fervor.

Arjun reluctantly released Draupadi and booming laugh echoed through the courtyard. 

Bheem stepped forward with a grin that lit up his face and without hesitation scooped Draupadi up into his powerful arms lifting her off the ground in a bear hug.

"Draupadi!" he roared with joy, twirling her around effortlessly.

Draupadi laughed, the sound pure and joyous, as she clung to his broad shoulders.
"Arya Bheem! Put me down," she protested between giggles, though there was no real urgency in her voice.

Bheem finally set her down gently, his eyes shining with affection. "I have missed you, Panchali," he said, his voice softening.

Draupadi's cheeks flushed with happiness, and she placed a hand on Bheem's arm, "Really?" she asked, her eyes brimming with joy.

Bheema nodded eagerly, his grin widening. "Oh, yes, truly! Especially your delicious cooking. I have been dreaming of your meals all these days," he exclaimed enthusiastically.

Draupadi chuckled warmly. "You're exaggerating, Arya Bheem," she teased gently. 

"Not at all Paanchali. I went without food for all fourteen days, Panchali. Fourteen days!" he recounted, shaking his head incredulously. "I am so very hungry after that."

"So, you are saying you missed my food more than me?" she quipped.

Bhima chuckled. "Well, maybe not more than you, but your food was a close second," he replied with a boyish grin. 

Draupadi laughed, shaking her head fondly at her husband's enthusiasm. "Oh, Arya Bheem," she said affectionately, "you could have told me earlier. Come, let's go to the kitchens. I'll make sure you have a feast fit for a king."

"Yes, yes! Let's not waste another moment. I'll tell you all about my battle as we feast," he declared, his voice resonating with anticipation.

As he observed the tender reunion, Drupad couldn't help but smile. Draupadi was his jewel, cherished beyond measure. Her happiness was his happiness, her safety his foremost concern. Seeing her surrounded by Arjun and Bheem their bond stronger than ever, filled him with profound satisfaction.  

He recalled the troubling rumors that had reached him not long ago — whispers of Arjun's attention straying towards another woman, a woman who was none other than the sister of the mighty Shri Krishna. 

But how could anyone compare to my Draupadi? She is unmatched, unparalleled in her beauty, wisdom, and virtue. The very thought of her being second to anyone else is unthinkable. She is the best, and I take immense pride in that. 

His lip curled a bit seeing Subhadra for a moment which he quickly dismissed noticing Shri Krishna beside her.

"Bhrata, it's good to see you safe and sound." Subhadra hugged her brother, who patted her back affectionately.

Krishna returned her smile warmly. "And it is good to see you all safe and well. But tell me, where is your Bhabhishree?" His voice held a note of eagerness, betraying his longing to see her.

"Revati Bhabhi is back at Dwarka of course."

"Bhadre. You very well know I am talking about your choti bhabhishree."

Draupadi and Subhadra exchanged mischievous glances. "Oh, she is around," Draupadi said with a teasing smile. "Why don't you go and find her yourself, Govind?"

Subhadra giggled. "Yes, bhrata, she is somewhere within the palace. You will have to seek her out."

Krishna chuckled, shaking his head at their playful antics. "Very well," he said, a smile tugging at his lips. "I shall find her myself."

Leaving the courtyard, Krishna began his search for Devashree. 

His heart raced with anticipation as he walked through the corridors of the palace in Panchal.  He made his way to the room allotted to her, his eyes scanning every corner in search of his beloved.

But as he entered the room, he found it empty. A pang of disappointment struck him, but he was undeterred. 

Then he approached a group of dasis who were busy arranging fresh flowers in vases.

"Where is Devashree?" he asked, his voice gentle but urgent.

The dasis exchanged knowing glances and smiled. "Devi Devashree is in the royal bath house, Prabhu."

"Thank you," Krishna replied with a nod, his excitement palpable.

He made his way towards the royal bath house, his footsteps quickening and without hesitation, Krishna entered the bath area. 

 The air was warm and fragrant with the scent of flowers, steam rising gently from the large, shimmering pool at the center of the room. 

As Krishna approached the pool, his eyes fell on his wife. 

She was partially submerged in the water, her back to him. Her dark hair cascaded over her shoulders, glistening with droplets of water. She wore a delicate blouse and a long lehenga that floated around her in the pool. 

Various dasis were attending to her, one brushing her hair, another massaging her shoulders, and yet another handing her fragrant oils. They were chatting softly among themselves, their voices a soothing murmur that blended with the gentle sounds of the water.

Devashree suddenly tensed, her hand halting in mid-air as a cramp coursed through her abdomen. The cramp was sharp and fleeting, but intense enough to make her body stiffen and her breath hitch.

She closed her eyes, focusing on her breathing to ride out the wave of pain. The cramp slowly ebbed, leaving a dull ache in its wake. She took a few deep breaths, her fingers tracing soothing circles on her stomach.

"Maharani, are you alright?" one of the dasis asked, her voice filled with worry.

 "I'm fine," Devashree finally said, her voice steady but tinged with residual discomfort. "It was just a cramp."

"Maharani, perhaps it would be wise to take the medicine," one of the dasis suggested gently, offering a vial of herbal remedy.

Devashree took a slow, deep breath, splashing some water gently over her stomach before submerging it entirely. "No, there's no need. The water helps. It calms him," she said, her voice tender as she continued to rub her stomach. "He's just excited today. I know it. He's a water baby. The water soothes him, and it soothes me too."

The dasis exchanged amused and curious glances at Devashree's word.

"Maharani, do you already know the gender of the baby?" a younger dasi asked with a playful lilt in her voice.

"Yes, Maharani, you speak of him as if you already know he's a boy."

"Yes," Devashree confirmed with a joyful smile, "Call it a mother's intuition."

"It's true," an older dasi agreed warmly. "A mother knows, even before anyone else."

"He moves so much," Devashree continued, her voice filled with maternal wonder. "Especially when I'm here in the water. It's like he knows, like he's already playing in the waves."

The dasis nodded knowingly.

"He's going to be lively and spirited," Devashree mused softly, her hands caressing her belly affectionately. "Just like his father, I'm sure."

Krishna stood for a moment, simply taking in the scene. Quietly, he caught the eye of the dasis and signaled for them to leave.

The dasis exchanged knowing glances and suppressed their giggles, quickly gathering their things and making their way out of the bath area. As they passed by Krishna, they offered him respectful bows, their eyes twinkling with amusement.

Lost in her thoughts and the soothing sensation of the water, Devashree didn't notice the change in the room. Krishna moved silently, his gaze never leaving her.

As the last dasi left, the room fell into a peaceful silence, broken only by the gentle lapping of the water against the sides of the pool. 

Krishna stepped closer, his heart racing with anticipation and joy. 

Devashree stretched out her hand, still not turning around, her voice soft and serene, "More oil, please."

Taking the bottle of oil from the nearby tray, Krishna poured some into his hands, warming it between his palms. With a tender smile, Krishna placed his hands on her shoulders, his touch gentle and reverent.

The moment his hands made contact, Devashree stilled, a shiver running through her.

Krishna's hands moved in slow, gentle circles, his touch both firm and tender. He smirked as he felt her breath hitched. The familiarity of his touch was unmistakable.

Her eyes flew open, and she turned her head slightly, catching a glimpse of him from the corner of her eye. "Krishn?" she whispered, disbelief and joy mingling in her voice.

Krishna smiled down at her, his hands still resting gently on her shoulders. "Surprise love" he said softly.

A cry of pure happiness escaped her lips as she threw her arms around him, water splashing around them. Krishna held her tightly, feeling the warmth of her embrace seep into his very soul. Tears of joy streamed down Devashree's face as she buried her head in his shoulder.

Krishna wrapped his arms around her, holding her as if he would never let go.

"I can't believe you're here," she murmured against his chest.

Devashree pulled back slightly, just enough to look up into his eyes. "I thought I was dreaming when I felt your touch. I missed you so much," she admitted with a laugh, her eyes still glistening with tears.

Her smile was radiant, her eyes shining with happiness and love as she leaned in, pressing her lips to his in a tender, heartfelt kiss which Krishna returned the with equal fervor.

Slowly releasing her from his embrace, he looked down at her. "Missed me, did you? Well, I must confess, I didn't miss you at all," he teased, his smirk widening mischievously.

Devashree's eyes widened in indignation. "What?" she exclaimed, pushing him away playfully. "You didn't miss me?"

"Not even a little," he teased, taking a step back with his hands raised in defense. "You see, there were so many beautiful apsaras in Magadha that you didn't even enter my mind!"

 "How dare you!"

Devashree playfully pushed him away, her hands landing straight on his chest. Caught off guard, Krishna stumbled backward and lost his balance, falling with a splash into the water.  He surfaced quickly, shaking the water from his hair and wiping it from his face, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

 "You're going to pay for that," he declared with mock seriousness, water cascading down his face.

Devashree laughed. "Oh, I'm shaking in fear," she replied with a grin, her voice thick with mirth.

"You pushed me!"

Devashree giggled, her heart lighter than it had been in months. "You deserved it, Swami" she retorted turning away from him, pretending to ignore his presence.

 "At least give me your hand, Shree." Still  Krishna called out to her.

Devashree glanced over her shoulder at him and scoffed in indignation. "Oh, now you want my hand? Why don't you call those beautiful apsaras of yours for help instead?" 

Krishna threw back his head and laughed. Water droplets glistened on his face and hair as he looked at Devashree with amusement sparkling in his eyes.

"They hold no candle to you Priye, no apsara can match your wit and charm. You alone posses my heart."

Devashree couldn't help but smile at his response, her heart swelling with affection for this man who brought lightness to every moment in her life. She felt an irresistible urge to reach out to him, to run her hand through his wet hair, to feel the soft strands against her fingers.

Noticing the softening in her expression and the way her gaze lingered on him Krishna extended his hand towards her once more. "Come now, Shree," he urged gently. "Let me make it up to you."

 She reached out, her fingers brushing against his cheek before tangling in his damp locks.

Krishna closed his eyes briefly, savoring her touch before taking her hand and bringing it to his lips.

Without breaking eye contact, he gently tugged at her hand, pulling her closer to him until she was seated comfortably on his lap. "How are you, Shree?" he asked softly.  "Did you face any problems here in Panchal?"

Devashree sighed contentedly, her fingers tracing idle patterns on his chest. "No problems, Swami," she murmured softly. "Everything was fine."

"And how is our little one?" he asked, his voice filled with tenderness and curiosity.

Devashree smiled, her hand covering his as she looked down at her belly. "He was a little too excited today," she said softly. "That's why I brought him to the bath. The water seems to calm him, just like it always does."

"No surprises there."

" Yes, so its been well here, but... can we go back to Dwarka now? I miss everyone terribly."

Krishna tightened his embrace around her, his arms holding her securely. "Of course, Shree," he replied, his voice warm and reassuring. "We'll leave for Dwarka as soon as you're ready. "

Devashree's face lit up instantly with happiness. She shifted off his lap, planting a quick kiss on his cheek before rising to her feet. "Thank you, Swami," she said gratefully, her voice filled with excitement.

"I'll go oversee the packing," she announced eagerly, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. "We mustn't delay. I want to be back home soon."

Krishna chuckled softly, shaking his head at her infectious enthusiasm. "And what about me, Shree?" he teased gently, his eyes gleaming with amusement.

Devashree laughed as she looked back at him. "Oh, you? Go and oversee if the chariots are ready!" she replied with a grin, playfully nudging him before turning towards her room.

"Dasis, pack everything swiftly! We're leaving for Dwarka as soon as possible!" Her voice rang with urgency, and the dasis immediately sprang into action, bustling around the room, gathering clothes, jewelry, and other essentials with practiced efficiency.

As Devashree turned to inspect the preparations, her eyes fell on Subhadra, who was standing by the window, seemingly lost in thought. 

"Subhadra," Devashree called out. "We need to pack your belongings as well. Come, let's hurry."

But Subhadra didn't respond. She remained by the window, her eyes unwavering.

Curious and slightly exasperated, Devashree approached her, her footsteps soft against the floor. As she drew closer, she followed Subhadra's line of sight and saw what had captured her interest.

Outside, in the courtyard, Pratap was practicing with his sword, his bare chest glistening with sweat. 

Rolling her eyes, Devashree snapped her fingers in front of Subhadra's face, breaking her trance.

"Subhadra?!" Devashree exclaimed, a teasing tone in her voice. "You're supposed to be packing, not daydreaming about my brother."

Subhadra blinked, her cheeks flushing a delicate pink. "I-I wasn't—" she stammered, clearly flustered. "I mean, I was just...watching his technique," she stammered, her voice a bit shaky. "He's very skilled."

Devashree chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Yes, Pratap is indeed a skilled warrior, but we have more pressing matters at hand. Come, let's get your things packed."

Subhadra nodded, finally tearing her gaze away from the window. "Yes, of course," she said, her voice a little breathless. She glanced back at Pratap one last time before turning to follow Devashree's instructions.

"You know, Subhadra," Devashree said with a sly grin, "if you find Pratap so fascinating, I will arrange more training sessions for him right outside your window back in Dwarka."

Subhadra's face flamed. "Bhabhishree!" she protested, though she couldn't hide the smile tugging at her lips. "You know it's not like that."

"Uh huh, I am just saying if you ever want a closer look, I'm sure he wouldn't mind giving you a private demonstration."

"Bhabhishree! You're terrible!" she exclaimed, though she couldn't help but laugh.

"Oh, Subhadra, you're too easy to tease," Devarshree said, her voice filled with mirth. "But don't worry, I won't embarrass you any further."

On the otherside leaving the bath area,Krishna came across Arjun and Bheem who were engaged in a conversation with King Drupada.

"Maharaj Drupad," Arjuna said respectfully. "We are deeply grateful for your hospitality and the warmth with which you have welcomed us. However, with the permission of our Jyesth, we must prepare to leave. Our next endeavor is the Digvijay Yatra, during which we will travel across Bharatvarsha, ensuring that all kings pay tribute to us."

"But Arjun, Bheem, you have just arrived. Must you leave so soon? Stay a few more days."

Bheem shook his head gently. "Maharaj, our duty calls. We must garner the allegiance of the other kings and secure their support for Jyesth's eventual ascension to the throne."

"Very well," Drupad said. "If this is your duty, then I will not stand in your way. But know that Panchal's doors are always open to you, and we await your return eagerly."

Krishna turned to King Drupada, offering a reassuring smile. "Maharaj, rest assured that your sons-in-law will succeed in their endeavors. The blessings of the gods are with them, and their purpose is just. They will certainly be successful in garnering the support needed for the prosperity and stability of Bharatvarsha."

With that Arjun and Bheem left with Draupadi for Indraprashth after which Arjun left to conquer north, Bheem to the east, Sahdev to the south and Nakul to the west for their Digvigay yatra to conquer the entire Bharatvarsh.

*******

The sun had dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and purple, as Krishna, Devashree, Subhadra, and Pratap arrived at the grand gates of Dwarka.

"Welcome back to Dwarka, Vasudev," Shakuni said smoothly, his voice dripping with insincerity. "And to you, Rani Devashree. It seems Dwarka has missed your presence greatly."

Krishna's eyes narrowed slightly as he took in the sight of the two. Shakuni's presence was never a good omen, and Duryodhan's smugness only heightened his suspicion. "Mama Shakuni, Duryodhan, this is an unexpected visit. To what do we owe the pleasure?"

Duryodhan stepped forward, his smile widening. "We simply wished to pay our respects and ensure that all is well with your Dwarka. It's been a long time after all."

Devashree tightened her grip on Krishna's arm as she forced a polite smile. "It is always... interesting to see family. What news do you bring from Hastinapur?"

Shakuni's eyes glittered with cunning. "Oh, nothing of great importance. We merely wished to discuss matters of mutual interest. Perhaps, Vasudeva, we could have a word in private later?"

Krishna nodded slowly, his mind racing. "Of course. We shall talk later."

Before they could dwell further on the implications of their presence, the attention was diverted by a cry that pierced through the crowd.

In Revati's arms, toddler Nishath squirmed and reached out eagerly upon seeing them. His chubby hands stretched towards Krishna, tears welling in his eyes as he cried out for him. The child's face was red with the intensity of his cries, and his chubby little hands stretched out, eager to be held by his beloved uncle.

"Ka-ka Kisna!" Nishath babbled, his eyes wide and tear-filled.

 "He's been waiting for you both," Revati said softly "Every day, he would look towards the gate, hoping to see you return."

Krishna's expression softened instantly, his heart melting at the sight of his nephew. He moved quickly towards Revati, who smiled warmly and handed Nishath over to him. 

As soon as Nishath was in his uncle's arms, his cries turned into giggles. He clung to Krishna's neck, his small fingers tangling in his hair as he babbled incoherently.

"Nishath, my little warrior," Krishna murmured affectionately, pressing a kiss to his forehead. "Did you miss me so much putr?"

He received a delighted squeal in response as tiny hands patted his cheeks.

He chuckled softly at Nishath's infectious giggles and mischievous babbling. With a playful twinkle in his eyes, he gently tossed Nishath up into the air, eliciting gleeful squeals from the toddler as his tiny chubby arms flailed with excitement, his laughter ringing out through the courtyard. Each time Krishna caught him, Nishath would bury his face in his uncle's shoulder, giggling uncontrollably.

"Shee Shee," he cried out next, twisting in Krishna's arms to look at Devashree, his chubby fingers pointing towards her.

"Shree, look who missed you," Krishna said, his eyes twinkling as he addressed Devashree.

Devashree's heart melted at the sight of Nishath. She reached out, her fingers gently caressing his soft curls. "There's my darling boy," she cooed, taking Nishath from Krishna's arms. 

The toddler snuggled against her, his little hands clutching at her sari as he babbled happily. She hugged Nishath close, pressing gentle kisses to his forehead and cheeks. "Did you behave well while we were away?"

Nishath responded with more babbling, his little hands patting Devashree's cheeks as he tried to convey his excitement and happiness.

Leaning down, she blew a raspberry on his exposed belly, the sound causing him to erupt in delighted giggles. His little legs kicked in the air, and he squirmed with joy, his hands reaching out to grasp her hair and face as he wriggled with happiness.

After some time Balram approached Devashree and Nishath who was nestled comfortably in Devashree's arms, playing with her gajra that she had wound in her braid.

"Devashree," Balram said softly, "it's Nishath's feeding time. I should take him now. C'mon putr your mother is waiting."

Nishath, however, seemed to sense the impending interruption. His chubby arms tightened their grip around Devashree's neck, and he nuzzled closer to her, his face buried in her shoulder. His eyes, wide and curious, peeked out at his father from behind a tuft of hair.

 "I think he's made his decision," Balram said, shaking his head fondly. "Looks like you'll have to handle this, Devashree."

Devashree laughed softly, rocking Nishath gently in her arms. "Alright, little one," she murmured, brushing a hand through his soft curls. "But you'll have to eat soon, alright?"

Nishath peeked up at Devashree, his eyes sparkling with mischief, before nestling back against her, his chubby cheeks dimpling with a smile.

"Kanha," Balaram turned to his brother, "the guests are waiting for you."

"Of course, dau," Krishna replied softly.

Entering the grand hall, Krishna's eyes quickly took in the scene. 

Shakuni and Duryodhan were seated on a divan, engaged in a conversation with Pitashree Vasudev. Shakuni's eyes glinted with their usual shrewdness, while Duryodhan's expression held a smug confidence.

"Kanha, you already know them, but let me introduce them again for the sake of formality." Balram gestured towards their guests. "This is Duryodhan, my best student, and his mamashree, Gandharaj Shakuni."

Shakuni inclined his head slightly, a smirk playing on his lips. "It is always a pleasure to see you, Vasudev Krishna."

"Pranipat Mamashree." Krishna replied smoothly, bowing slightly with respect.

Shakuni's lip curled in distaste. "Vasudev, I would prefer it if you did not call me 'mamashree.' It brings to mind what you did to your own mama, Kamsa."

Krishna's expression remained serene, though his eyes held a spark of amusement. "But you are my mama, Gandharaj. Your nephew Duryodhan is the cousin of my cousins, the Pandavas. The ties of family cannot be denied."

"Yes Vasudev," Duryodhan began, "our visit is meant to strengthen these very familial ties."

"They are here on a very important prospect, Kanha." Balram took over. "Duryodhan has come with a marriage proposal for our dear Subhadra." He paused, allowing the gravity of his words to sink in. 

"And I have agreed."

*******

A/N 

Ye kya kar dala dau?😪😪

There are various versions of Subhadra's marriage.

In Mahabharata, Arjun sees Subhadra when he visits Dwarka for the first time and instantly desires her, wanting to take her as his wife following which Krishna suggests him to abduct her rather than winning her in a Swayamvar.

Whereas in Srimad Bhagwatam it is mentioned that Balram had decided to give his sister's hand to Duryodhan which is what we are following in this story.

And I don't think I will ever get tired of writing romantic scenes in water or the cute scenes with Nishath. I hope you are not getting bored with it.😁🥲

Until next time 💕....... I am not sure when it will be because I am now living away from home for at least some months and don't have the access to my laptop anymore.❤️✨

Do vote if you have enjoyed reading the chapter.❤️❤️