Balram eagerly took his nephew in his arms.

He had missed him so much!

He remembered how they would do all sorts of mischief together back in Vaikunth. It was always hilarious when those two, Shesha and Kama pranked Prabhu Narayan together. They would prank all and leave none except maybe Mata Lakshmi. And it was even more fun when their victim was that wicked Garud. Oh, how Garud would huff and puff! Balram nearly let out a villainous laugh at the memory but quickly held it in, not wanting to alarm the baby.

That was eons ago.

Now here he was back again, like rising back from ashes like a phoenix and Balram couldn't be anymore happier. He looked into those deep big brown eyes. There was no mistaking that mischievous twinkle .

The baby blinked up at him, and Balram's grin widened. The lower lip of the baby jutted slightly to one side, a mischievous little expression that seemed all too familiar. Was it just his imagination, or was this tiny creature smirking at him?

Oh, you're definitely Kanha's son, he thought.

But suddenly, his smile froze. He felt something... wet. There, seeping through the soft blanket, was a growing wet patch.

"Oh no!" Balram's eyes widened in horror as the warm liquid seeped through his clothes.

"Looks like your nephew wanted to leave you with a little gift, Dau."

Subhadra couldn't hold back her laughter, and soon, everyone in the hall erupted into fits of giggles.

"You little rascal!" Balram exclaimed."So this is how it's going to be, huh?" he whispered, looking down at the tiny culprit. "I see. First day back and you already got me. Wait till I get back at you."

The baby didn't take the threat well because the very next moment, he started wailing.

Devaki rushed forward at the sound, her motherly instincts kicking in. "Let me take him," she said. "There, there, my sweet. Let's get you cleaned up."

Balram could only watch as his mother fussed over the infant. Between the cries, his eyes met the baby's for a moment and he saw it! A wink! That imp just winked at him! He looked again, this time a little closer..... No, it was just the baby wailing and all. Must have been his imagination.

"Maybe I'm just seeing things," he muttered to himself, chuckling again.

As the cries subsided, Balram went to take him again. He hadn't even touched him before he started crying again. Balram retreated and waited till he became calm again and then approached cautiously, extending his arms toward the baby, but before he could make contact, the cries erupted once more, louder and more insistent than before.

Balram threw his hands up in exasperation. "I didn't even touch you!"

Then, Arjun stepped forward and casually with a flick of his hair he took the baby into his arms. Miraculously, the cries ceased immediately, replaced by soft gurgles and coos.

Balram huffed, folding his arms. "Unbelievable. I didn't even touch him, and he's acting like I set the world on fire!"

Arjun smirked over at Balram. "Looks like someone's already made his choice."

Nestled comfortably in Arjun's arms, the tiny thing just gazed back at him with those big brown eyes, seemingly unfazed by his glare.

Balram's heart melted a little at the sight, though he would never admit it. The tiny thing now looked completely at peace blinking with big pupils too big for his innocent eyes, as if nothing had happened.

Innocent my foot! Balram narrowed his eyes. "Oh, you think you're clever, huh?" he leaning closer to scrutinize the tiny face. "You're just playing hard to get."

"Maybe he just knows who the real favorite is and have chosen me as his favorite uncle," Arjun gave a smug smile.

Balram shot him a look of annoyance before glaring at the baby. "That pee was deliberate!"

"I think you're reading too much into this, Dau. He's just a baby."

"No, no. I've seen that look before. That's exactly the kind of face Kanha used to make before pulling one of his pranks. Mark my words, he's already plotting something."

The baby gurgled, his tiny hand reaching up to tug on Arjun's hair. Arjun grinned. "Maybe he just has good taste, Dau. You can't blame him for that."

Balram sighed. "Cheeky brat," he muttered under his breath, although he couldn't hide the fond smile tugging at his lips. "Definitely Kanha's son."

Krishna chuckled and patted Arjun's shoulder. "Let's take a stroll Parth."

They both went to the gardens together.

"How come you are here in Dwarka Parth?"

"I..I came to give you the invitation Madhav. Next month is the Rajusuya. You have to be there. And please bring Devashree too. It would be very happy to receive you both at this auspicious event."

"Sure. We will be there. But you could have sent the invitation with a messenger. Besides you should be beside your pregnant wife. Tell me honestly, Parth....why are you here."

Arjun sighed, running a hand through his hair. "You remember I told you about the Rajkumari of Manipura?"

"Rajkumari Chitrangada? The one you married during your short exile?"

"Yes. "

"What about her?" Krishna asked, curiosity piqued.

"Well, she is the heir to the throne and will live in Manipura forever. But before she will be crowned, she wanted to see me for the last time and came to live at Indraprastha for some time. I couldn't deny her. I too, want to hold my child before they go away."

Krishna suppressed a smile. "So, what's the problem?"

"The problem Madhav is that now I have two very pregnant wives at a single palace who are at odds with each other. They both have strong personalities," Arjun admitted. "Chitrangada is fiercely independent and doesn't shy away from speaking her mind. Draupadi, on the other hand, is equally passionate and protective of our family. They're both extraordinary women, but together? It's like mixing fire and water."

Krishna couldn't stop his laugh. "Who told you to have so many wives, Parth?" he teased, nudging Arjun. "You've brought this upon yourself! I can't handle one wife and you have got yourself two."

Arjun sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "It wasn't exactly my plan, Madhav," he said, shaking his head. "Do you think... I acted too impulsively? I fear I may have broken Paanchali's trust by marrying a second time. Do you think I did wrong Madhav? I didn't want to but that seemed the right choice at the time."

Krishna smiled placing his hand on Arjun's shoulder "You chose to do the right thing without caring about your own feelings and emotions. That's what makes you the best of men Parth."

"Would you have done the same thing, Madhav?"

"I can't say I would have."

"But you said I did the right thing. Wouldn't you have done the same?" Arjun frowned slightly, still confused.

Krishna chuckled softly. "The right thing for one person may not be the right thing for another. You made your choice because it was right for you at that moment, for the people involved, and for your duty. I would have approached it in my way, perhaps through negotiation or persuasion, but that doesn't mean either of us is wrong."

"But the mess remains the same. Now Paanchali is very angry with me and rightly so....and it seems the distance is neverending."

"Paarth, if there is anything more important than love, it is the respect between two people. Give her time and she will come around."

"But I can feel the distance growing between us, and I fear it's becoming something I can't bridge. It's like we are back to square one."

"Then start again. It's never too late to cure a broken heart."

"So easy for you to say. What do you know of broken hearts Madhav? I believe it was you who broke hearts and left unscathed."

"Ah, Paarth, even I am not immune to the pain of a broken heart," Krishna said quietly. "Do you think I've never felt the weight of loss or separation? Do you think I have not broken hearts or had my own broken? It may seem easy from where you stand, but every heart carries its share of wounds."

Arjun looked at him with curiosity. There was a vulnerability in Krishna's words. "Madhav... you?"

Krishna nodded, his smile tinged with a trace of sadness. "Even I have had to make choices that hurt the ones I love. Choices I could not undo. I've had to make choices that hurt others, too. But those choices were never made without thought or care. I had hurt your sister-in-law very deeply once."

"You mean Devashree?"

"Yes. She, who loves me with all her heart, once felt the sting of betrayal from me, even if it wasn't intentional."

"Then what did you do Madhav? How did you mend things between you two?"

"Well, I did everything to win her back because I had absolutely no intention to go on about my life without her.

"So, you didn't give up?"

"Not for a moment," Krishna said. "Love, true love, demands that we fight for it. And it was amazing. I have to admit, Parth. It was truly amazing. Believe me."

"I cannot imagine you two ever fighting with each other. You two always work so in sync. Always knowing what the other needed...How did you meet Madhav? You two?"

"The very first time?"

"Yes of course, the first time...it happens only once right?"

"You would be surprised..." Krishna chuckled. "When I saw her for the very first time in my entire existence, the first look...It happened by chance, like a brush of fate. A passing moment where two souls recognize something familiar in the other, even if they don't understand it yet. Where hearts flutter, unsure if to retreat or to reach. The story could have ended there, with us as strangers, lost in the tide of time. Finished before it even started, swallowed by the rush of moments.

But then there was a second look-ah, the second look was different,
More deliberate, more daring, there was a weight in our gaze. She hesitated, I hesitated. But I wanted to take the risk. I wanted to dare.
So then came-a shift of a hand, the tilt of a smile-a raised eyebrow, a half-smile-all said a world without a single word. And when I saw that spark in her eyes, I knew I was ready to take it futher. This is where decisions were made, though nothing was said.

The third look, when it came, a door had already been opened. Even if the smile was shy, the eyes betrayed what the words hadn't said. But from this moment on, between these two people, between us, anything was possible-a love or a friendship... She took a step towards me and I took towards her and a world was born. We both knew that our paths were now entwined. From that point on, we built a world together, brick by brick, step by step."

"And that world-despite everything-still stands."

Krishna's gaze softened, and he placed a reassuring hand on Arjun's shoulder. "It does, Parth. Because we chose it to. Love is not just in the first look or even the second. It's in the choice to keep looking, to keep choosing the same person, even when it's hard. And that, my dear friend, is the second greatest truth I can offer you."

"Thank you, Madhav. Perhaps, after all, it's not too late for anyone to start again."

Krishna grinned, "It never is, Parth. It never is."

"Wait what's the first one? The greatest truth?"

"It's not the time for it yet."

Not getting attention to himself the baby began to fuss, his small hands waving in the air, searching for comfort. His cries grew louder, causing Arjun to glance at Krishna with helplessness.

"Here, Parth, let me take him."

Krishna scooped his son into his arms, the cries quieting for just a moment as he deposited a soft kiss on the baby's forehead. The little one blinked up at his father, his tiny fists clutching at his father's robes.

"Ah, he's hungry," Krishna said softly, his voice full of affection. He cradled his son tenderly and turned to Arjun. "I'll take him back to Shree. She must be resting."

With a parting smile, Krishna made his way back to his chambers, his baby still fussing softly in his arms.

The hallways of Dwarka felt peaceful in the late hours of the evening, in the gentle light of the setting sun. As he reached their chamber, the soft cries began again, rousing Devashree from her rest.

Her eyes fluttered open, disoriented at first but quickly focusing on the sound of her baby's cries. Krishna knelt beside her, helping her sit up with care, his hand supporting her back as she adjusted herself.

Devashree smiled through her exhaustion, her eyes softening as she cradled their son. She pressed him close, showering him with open-mouthed kisses on his cheeks. The baby quietened immediately.

"See how he knows his mother," Krishna said, a hint of pride in his voice.

"He's always known," Devashree replied softly. "It's a bond that can't be broken."

As she gently began to nurse their son, Krishna settled beside her, resting his arm around her shoulders. Soon he was out like a light sleeping deeply as Devashree wrapped him snugly in a blanket and positioned him between them.

"I was afraid you wouldn't come."

Krishna frowned. "Why?" He followed Devashree's gaze to the blood-soaked sheets at the foot of the bed. "Do you think I am squeamish about blood?" He grinned.

Devashree sighed. "The dasis were talking about moving out your things to a different chamber."

Krishna raised an eyebrow, surprise and amusement on his face. "Moving my things? Why would they do that?"

Devashree shrugged, a slight frown creasing her brow. "You know about that right? kind of isolating the mother after pregnancy because of the blood and...supposed cleansing of the body. They are planning on restricting me for a month or so" she spat.

Krishna's amusement faded as he absorbed her words. "I do know of such customs," he replied, his voice low and serious. "But that does not mean I agree with them."

"Good for you. Otherwise, you would have been in some serious trouble."

Krishna laughed. He knew that she never liked any restrictions to be imposed on herself. Not by her family, not by anyone, and especially not by society. She was always like a free bird, fiercely independent and unwilling to be caged by tradition.

Krishna pulled her closer till she was resting against him. "You have just given birth after nourishing our child in your womb. There is a huge wound in your body that has just started healing so it's completely natural for the body to discard the things which are now of no use. It's as natural as the blood that is being pumped by the heart to nourish the body. There's nothing shameful about it, Shree."

"I know that, but it feels so suffocating to be treated as if I need to be hidden away as if I should be ashamed of my body's natural functions. The traditions and expectations that still bind so many women. I won't be a part of that."

"Nor should you be," Krishna agreed.

"I'm afraid your title may not be enough to change centuries of tradition."

"Perhaps," he said. "But traditions can change, and often they should. And somebody has to start that. Now go to sleep and stop worrying about these things."

"But I will need to change out of this saree soon enough or it will be completely soaked with blood. I have already instructed the servants to alert me but I will be more comfortable if you will wake me up before that happens."

Krishna gave her a tight smile. He didn't want to disturb her sleep. He could see how tired she was having little to almost no sleep since the birth. But he also understood the importance of her comfort and dignity. "Of course, I will wake you," he said

Devashree settled back against him, she could feel her eyes growing heavy. "Thank you for being here, Swami," she murmured, her voice thick with sleep.

"You don't have to thank me for doing something I love to do" he whispered and it was not long before she fell asleep.

Time passed in quiet contentment, until suddenly, a faint but unmistakable foul smell reached his nose. He crinkled his nose slightly, his eyes moving to the infant lying between them. The baby was wide awake, staring back at him with big, curious eyes as if he knew exactly what he'd done.

The baby squirmed, eyes bright but lips beginning to quiver as if sensing discomfort. Krishna chuckled softly, lifting a finger to his lips. "Shh,my baby ," he whispered, trying to keep him from crying and waking Devashree. He gently unwrapped the blanket, careful not to disturb his wife as he moved.

The mess was worse than he expected.

"Ah, my brave warrior, you've done quite the job here," Krishna murmured and quickly grabbed a clean cloth to begin changing the dirty diaper.

The baby's tiny feet kicked lightly while Krishna kept glancing at the baby's face, who seemed more fascinated by his father's actions than anything else.

"You're going to get used to this," Krishna whispered with a smile, wiping the baby clean and wrapping him back up in fresh, soft linens. "There, all better," Krishna whispered as he kissed the baby's tiny forehead.

"Let's not wake your mother, hmm? She needs her rest. It's just you and me now, my little warrior."

Krishna gently picked him up, holding his son close against his chest.

How amazing it was! He was holding his son, the same soul once again after billions and trillions of years. The baby's knees scrunched up slightly, resting comfortably on his bare chest as he cradled him and responded with a soft coo, his eyes-bright and curious-locked onto Krishna's.

Then, without warning, the baby opened his mouth in the most exaggerated yawn Krishna had ever seen. His small face scrunched up adorably, his lips forming a perfect 'O' as his eyes fluttered. His eyes blinked sleepily as if the effort of that yawn had exhausted him.

Krishna chuckled, brushing his thumb gently across the baby's cheek. "Oh my god, that's a big yawn for such a little thing!" he whispered. "Are you ready to sleep now?"

In response, the baby flopped his head into his father's neck in total surrender and trust and tiny hands came to rest on his chest.

"So much innocent trust in your old father, hm?" Krishna murmured softly.

Did he even deserve it? Did they deserve it?

As the preserver of the universe's balance, Krishna had always been the guide for those seeking to follow the path of dharma, the teacher of karma and artha. Their children had been no exception, always learning to align their lives with the same order. His baby-his innocent, trusting son-had grown up learning these same principles, believing in them with the same unshakable faith.

Yet, the cycle of karma had failed him, failed all of them. Because it had punished a soul which was untainted, it had punished a soul that was untouched by sin. How could such purity be made to suffer? Krishna's heart clenched as he thought of that betrayal. The one force that was supposed to maintain the equilibrium of the universe had faltered.

But he would not fail again. Krishna tightened his hold around his son. "The world will not take from you what is yours again."

******

It was well past midnight when Krishna stirred slightly. He felt something wet against his nose, causing him to blink awake.

Opening his eyes, he found his baby boy, wide-awake and his lips wrapped around the tip of his father's nose.

"Are you hungry already, my little warrior?" Krishna whispered, a smile spreading across his face.

The baby paused for a moment, blinking up at Krishna as if recognizing his father's voice, then continued his exploration with newfound enthusiasm.

"There's no milk in there, you know," Krishna chuckled softly, trying to suppress his laughter at the adorable sight.

The baby released his nose and waved his tiny fists in the air, as if to say, I'm getting hungry, Father!

He looked over at Devashree, still peacefully resting, her chest rising and falling in a gentle rhythm. Krishna knew she would want to nurse him soon.

"Let's get you back to your mother, shall we? I believe she has what you're really after," he said,

He settled the baby against Devashree's side, the little one wriggled excitedly, instinctively seeking his mother's comfort, and found his way to his mother's breast.

Devashree stirred at the movement, her eyes fluttering open to the sight of her baby boy nestled against her. A tender smile spread across her face as she cradled him carefully, wrapping her arms around him with a protective warmth.

"Hello, my love," she murmured, even as she felt the exhaustion still clinging to her. The baby responded with a quiet coo, his tiny fingers curling around her breast.

Just as she was finishing wrapping the baby in a tight swaddle, her gaze shifted toward the corner of the room. The curtain by the pillar stirred unnaturally. There was no breeze, yet it swayed.

Someone was behind it.

"Krishna," she whispered "The curtain..."

Krishna immediately turned toward the window. His expression grew sharp, the calm vanishing from his face. He moved swiftly, stepping in front of Devashree and the baby.

He approached the curtain and paused, his eyes scanning for any further signs of movement, then with a single, decisive motion, he pulled the curtain aside.

It was Nishath.

The little boy stood there clutching a soft blanket, his tiny body half-hidden behind the fabric. His innocent face lit up the moment he saw his uncle.

"Kakaslee!"

"Nishath!" Krishna exclaimed, his tension melting into amusement. "What are you doing here in the middle of the night?"

Nishath tilted his head and grinned, his baby teeth peeking out as he tried to explain. "Mmm... meet Nuj" he said in broken language, pointing toward the baby in Devashree's arms.

Krishna chuckled, crouching down to his nephew's level. "You wanted to meet your anuj, huh?"

Nishath nodded enthusiastically and Krishna picked him and carried him over to where Devashree sat.

"Look, Shree," Krishna said, "We have a visitor tonight."

"Aww Nishath, did nobody introduce your little brother to you?" Devashree asked him lovingly.

Nishath shook his head vigorously, his messy curls bouncing as he kept staring at the baby.

"Well then, it's about time. Nishu, this is your little brother," she said softly, gently shifting the baby so that his tiny hand was visible. "Say hello."

Nishath blinked up at the baby with wide eyes, his small fingers gripping his uncle's shoulder as he leaned in to get a closer look. His innocent curiosity was written all over his face as he examined his little cousin, scrunching his nose in deep concentration. The toddler tilted his head from one side to the other, trying to make sense of the tiny human swaddled in his aunt's arms.

He was looking at his tiny cousin who was wrapped in a tight blanket, from every angle and after a moment of intense inspection, Nishath frowned.

He looked at his uncle and pointed at the baby.

"He has no arms..."

Krishna and Devashree bit back a laugh.

"No arms, huh? Are you sure, little one?"

Nishath nodded seriously, pointing at the swaddled baby. "Look... arms gone.... No play with sword. It's okay. Nishath protect nuj. "

"That's so sweet and noble my love but look his arms are here. He's just so little that they're hiding for now." Devashree carefully peeled back a corner of the soft blanket to reveal the baby's tiny, curled-up arms resting against his chest.

Nishath's eyes widened in surprise and relief as he touched the little fingers. "Oh... small,"

"That's right, but one day, he'll grow big and strong like you. And when the time comes, you can teach him how to play with a sword."

"Nishath protect nuj," he declared, determined. "Nuj no need sword."

"Yes yes fine, my brave protector but now this protector should sleep."

"No....play."

"Play? At this hour?"

"Nishath not tired! Nuj and me play!"

Krishna smiled, crouching down so that he was eye-level with Nishath. "But, Nishath, look at your anuj. He's fast asleep, see?"

Nishath tilted his head, looking at his baby brother intently, his excitement dimming as he realized the little one was, indeed, peacefully sleeping.

Krishna ruffled Nishath's curly hair and continued, "Even protectors need to rest sometimes, you know. If you don't sleep, how will you have the strength to watch over him tomorrow? You need to be strong to protect him, right?"

"Strong like you?"

Krishna smiled warmly, nodding. "Exactly. And you know what? The stronger you are, the better you'll be at teaching him how to play and protect. But for that, you need to sleep now."

The toddler bit his lip, glancing from Krishna to the sleeping baby and back again, his energy finally beginning to fade. "Nuj sleep... Nishath sleep too?"

Krishna gently scooped him up in his arms. "Yes"

*******

Alright, what's going on out there?

It's been pretty cozy in here for the last... well, I don't know how long. I've been floating around, chilling , and then suddenly... all this noise!

Why is everyone yelling? Can they keep it down? I'm trying to rest here.

Where's that voice who talks to me daily? It tells me to call it Maa. I want that one. And the other one too.

Everybody else , please leave.

Wait, what was that? .....Something just squeezed me.

Not cool, guys. I'm not ready to leave yet. But it keeps happening, and now there's this tightness everywhere.

Honestly, who's responsible for this?

I did not sign up for this!

Maa sounds... distressed?

Ugh, sorry, Maa, I really didn't mean to cause all this fuss. It's not my fault really. This squishy thing is tightening from all around. I really need to get out.

No wait. On second thought. Maybe I'll just stay here a little longer... or-whoa! There it was.

The second voice. The deeper stronger voice I kept hearing all the time. It sounds all serious and worried. Don't worry, second voice. I got this. Just give me a few more minutes... or hours... actually, how about a week?

And then, it happened. Suddenly, I was out!

Whoa, not the soft, cozy space I was in! What is this madness?!

This bright light hits me, and OH MY GOD, THERE'S SO MUCH PAIN IN MY LUNGS!!!!

I don't like it! Why can't I breathe properly? Someone get me back in the cozy squishy thing! Please...Can I go back now? I promise I will return.....

There are all these faces staring at me! No! Turn around!! I am NAKED!!

Are you people judging me? This is a really cruel joke.

Hey, lady! Put me back! Yes, thank you.

"He's beautiful."

That voice.....MAA!! Oh my god, she is gorgeous and has such sparkly eyes!! I flop my head into her chest. She smells amazing. She looks at me like I'm the most precious thing in the world.

Her hands lift me up and hold me close, and suddenly, everything feels okay again. I am melting. I had just started to snuggle into her, when....

"Maharani, we will clean him up."

No, no, no! I protest with a little squeak. I'm perfectly fine just as I am! I don't need a bath right now! I just got here!

Maa! I look at her, hoping she'll save me from this nonsense.

Maa, don't let them take me!

I can hear her voice! Wait, is she coming?

My eyes dart around, trying to find her.

"Let me hold him, please!" There it is! The sound of my sweet Maa!

Finally! I'm back in her arms! This is bliss.

"Shree, you did wonderfully."

That voice! The second voice I kept hearing. It's so comforting, like a gentle lullaby.

I turn my head slightly, trying to locate the source.

"You've both made me so proud."

It's him! It's my... my father!

I want to see him! Where is he?

With every ounce of energy I can muster, I try to lift my head.......Uggh not possible yet. So I just remain on my mother's chest till she moves me to face him.

And there he is!

Standing tall, with a face that glows with kindness and there is this twinkle in his eyes. And then he is picking me up. His arms are so big and squishy, wrapping around me like a fluffy cloud.

Oh wow! This is amazing!

"He looks just like you Swami" You mean He looks like Me. Duh.

"Look at you, little one," he murmurs, his voice rich with affection.

I wiggle my tiny fingers, trying to reach for his face, but he's holding me so close, I can't quite manage it.

"Just like your mother," he adds.

Yes! I am just like her, like Maa..

His big eyes watch me with this deep, loving expression that makes me want to giggle, but I don't know how to do that just yet. So, I just blink and wave my fists around. That's the only thing I can do as of yet. And kick my feet. I am pro at that one.

Soon they both are arguing about something.

I kick again, a little harder this time, just to remind them that I'm here, in case they forgot. Maa's laugh fills the room, soft and sweet, like that squishy place I used to live in-All warm and cozy.

And then hey both lean down, peering at me, their faces full of wonder, saying things that sound like gibberish. Pa makes some funny faces, and Maa giggles again. I also want to make funny faces. I want to do what he did. So I poke out my tongue a little. It makes them stop whatever gibberish they're saying and focus on me. Their eyes light up as if I'm the most magical thing they've ever seen.

Well, I suppose I am.

"Oh, look at that, Swami! He's copying you!" Maa says between giggles, her voice filled with so much joy it makes me want to do it again.

Pa ries to poke out his tongue too, but he's not very good at it-he looks silly. Somebody please tell him!

Nevertheless, I poke out my tongue again, just a little, and they both laugh even harder, their faces glowing with happiness.

They are so silly, really. Ridiculous. The both of them.

But, I think I'll keep them.

Even if they are a bit crazy.

******

I just had a long nap and now the big people are fighting over me? Seriously what is wrong with those people? I was out for like only a little while.

I crack one eye open, just enough to see a blur of faces leaning over me. They're all smiling so widely. This is one crazy family!

Maybe I' should poke out my tongue again. If they notice, maybe they'll chill out a bit.

I muster the strength, part my lips, and let out the tongue

All the heads snap down to look at me, eyes wide with excitement.

"Did you see that?" someone exclaimed.

And just like that, I've stolen their attention again. Silly people.

"Give him to me now, Madhulika!" Ooh, that lady's got a big voice!

But wait, who's Madhu...ka? Is that the lady with the funny bun on her head? She seems nice. I wonder if she has milk.

"You've already had your turn! Besides, I only just got him!" Hmm, I think she's talking about me! What do you mean you got me? I'm not a package from the market!

"I carried his father for nine months! I deserve some extra time with my grandson!" Whoa! Nine months? That's longer than I've been alive!

"Alright, calm down, all of you!" my father, says.

Oh, big people! So many big people! My eyes go round and round like the sun in the sky. I can't even decide whose face to look at first!

Ooh, who's this? He has got so many hairs on his face. Ewww.......He has got the biggest and thickest arms I have ever seen. I haven't seen much though.

" I am your Tatshree Balram" Sure. I will try to remember it- oh oww. He's holding me tight, too tight and I feel a little whoosh in my belly.

Uh-oh! I need to pee.

I let a little sprinkle out! Can't help it! It just happens. Hee hee! Look at his face!

Everyone laughs and a lady is shaking so hard she's nearly rolling on the floor!

*****

Alright, I was having a perfectly good dream about warm milk and fuzzy blankets when-there's something pointy in front on me.

Huh... interesting. I'll give it a little taste. Chomp.

What is this?

Definitely not milk.

What a letdown. I'll just keep trying though. You never know, right?

Wait, Pa's talking again. I don't understand half of what he says, but his voice is warm and funny.

"It's my nose. There's no milk in there."

You are disappointing.

I did not expect this from you, Pa.

I had high hopes.

I pull my mouth away in utter betrayal, giving him a squinty look.

Now he's laughing. He's always laughing.

I swear he can hear my thoughts.

He can't, right?

I squint even harder. This is suspicious. How does he always know when I'm plotting something?

I will have to keep an eye on him.

But seriously, can we get back to the milk situation? Oh good, he's moving me.

Ahhh, here we go-back to Maa. Wiggle wiggle I know what's coming next.

Jackpot!

Ah, finally. A full tummy. Just as I'm getting cozy, Pa's changing my diaper again.

Here comes the cold air. Oh great, he's wiping.

"There, all better."

FINALLY.

Now he's swaddling me again. Tight. Too tight. Hello? Can I get a looser fit here?

"Let's not wake your mother, hmm? She needs her rest. It's just you and me now, my little warrior."

Wait, wait... why does he look all emotional? Is he gonna cry? I'm too tired for this right now. Just rock me, big guy. That's it. Sway side to side...

Ahhh, yes. The sway. That's the good stuff. Now, maybe I can-

YAWN. Whoa! What just came out of my face?

"Oh my god, that's a big yawn for such a tiny thing!"

Yeah, no kidding. You try being cute 24/7, it's exhausting.

Why is his face so close? Oh no. He's coming in for-

SMOOCH

And then another one. And another. He's kissing me all over my face!

AND OH MY GOD IT'S SO WET LIKE MY BUTT A FEW MOMENTS AGO!

SMOOCH SMOOCH

I'm telling you, this is getting out of hand.

He plants one on my nose, then goes for the other cheek. He's covering every inch of my face with these little kisses. His breath tickles my face between the kisses, I THINK I AM GOING TO SNEEZE!

"You're my little bean," he whispers between kisses, his voice all soft and mushy now.

Bean? What is that? A big strong thing I guess.

SMOOCH

Okay, fine. I'll admit it. I like this..... it's somewhat nice. Warm, soft...like the ones from Maa. Like your insides want to melt.

This is so cozzzzyyyy-why did you stop?

You missed a spot on my eyebrow.

Smooch.

Ah, there we go. Knew he'd get it.

I feel a gentle pat on my back. The rhythm is soothing, like a lullaby just for me.

With each soft pat, my eyelids are growing heavier. It will be nice to close them for a little while.

I will stop thinking now.

******

Devashree gently cradled her baby in her arms, dressing him in soft warm clothes.

She wanted everything to be perfect today.

His tiny fists curled around her thumb, making her heart feel like it would burst from love. She brushed a soft strand of hair away from his forehead, marveling at how perfect he was.

"Oooh, who's my little makhanball, hmm? Is it you? Yes, it is!" she cooed, her voice filled with adoration as she lightly tapped his nose. "Today is a special day, you know. We're going to celebrate you, my sweet boy."

Her baby blinked lazily, still half-asleep. "Are we ready for your big day, my little laddu? Hmm, what do you think? So handsome, you're going to steal everyone's heart, aren't you?"

Her baby squirmed, his tiny fists waving in the air as if he was trying to respond. She giggled and continued, "Oh yes, I see those big muscles. Are you going to wrestle like your Tatshree Balram? Or maybe dance and play flute like your Pitashree? Hmm? "

His little hand twitched, still gripping her thumb, and she couldn't resist kissing his soft baby cheeks.

"Everyone will gather to shower you with love. Just like how I love you every single day."

Just as she was about to step away, a knock echoed from the door.

"Come in."

The door creaked open, and there stood her father-Maharaj Devendra. Regal and strong.

Without thinking, she rushed toward him she threw her arms around him, burying her face in his chest. The feel of his strong arms wrapping around her made her feel like a little girl again, protected and loved.

"How is my princess doing?" he asked gently, his voice filled with affection.

Devashree pulled back slightly, her eyes welling with tears she could no longer hold back. "Sad and angry," she confessed. "It's been over a year, Pitashree... you're just visiting now. It feels like you've forgotten me."

Maharaj Devendra lifted his hand to wipe away her tears. "My sweet Deva," he whispered. "How could I ever forget you? You've been in my heart every moment. Didn't you get my letters?"

"I did. But they are not the same." She pouted.

Maharaj Devendra smiled warmly at his daughter, wiping away the last of her tears. "I know, my Deva. Letters will never replace being here with you. But enough of those tears now," he said, "Where's my grandson?"

Without waiting for an answer, he stepped forward and gently picked up the baby from the cradle. A bright smile spread across his face, "Ah, there he is! A fine boy," he murmured proudly.

Just then, Krishna entered the room, bowing respectfully with his palms together. "Pitashree... Pranipat! How are you?"

Maharaj Devendra side-eyed Krishna for a moment and gave him huge thump on the back, the force of it nearly knocking Krishna off balance.

"Good. I will be taking my grandson with me now," he declared. He then shot Krishna a look, his tone suddenly firm. "After the ceremony, you and I need to have a talk."

Krishna's eyes widened as he struggled to stay on his feet, blinking in surprise as the older man walked out of the room with the baby in his arms. He stood there, staring at the door long after Devendra left.

Slowly, he turned toward Devashree, his brow furrowed. "What... just happened? He said he wanted to talk."

Devashree simply hummed in response, not offering much explanation.

"He seemed very serious," Krishna pressed, his eyes searching hers for a hint.

Devashree wound her arms around his neck, leaning in with a playful smile. "Oh, I believe he was," she teased.

"Serious about what?" Krishna narrowed his eyes slightly, still confused.

She pretended to think ,her fingers gently stroking the back of his neck. " I believe it is something to do with Paundrak."

Krishna blinked. "What?"

"Yes. You know I was kidnapped and poisoned and then kidnapped again. He probably wants to have a chat about all that."

Krishna's throat went dry. "Who... who told him about that?"

Devashree's smile turned into a sly grin. "I did."

"Why would you do that?"

Devashree stared innocently at him. "He always asks me in his letters about what's happening and I always tell him. Why, wasn't I supposed to tell him?"

Krishna crossed his arms as he tried to rein in his anxiety. "This could lead to trouble."

Devashree laughed and patted his cheek. "You can handle a little conversation with my father."

"You sure know how to keep me on my toes, Priye," Krishna said, shaking his head in exasperation, though he couldn't help but smile.

Soon they both were on the puja-stal sitting in front of Rishi Jamadagni. The whole area had been thoroughly cleaned for the newborn.

Krishna was sitting in the front holding his son in his lap and Devashree beside him. They all bowed to the Rishivar.

"Today, we gather to perform the Jaatkarm sanskar, a beautiful ceremony that celebrates the birth of your child and initiates him into the world. Let us begin with the first ritual. Shri Krishna, the child will remain in your lap for this sanskar except for when he will be breastfed."

Krishna nodded as he adjusted the newborn gently, making sure his son was comfortable in his embrace.

"Now begin by chanting the eleven mantras in his ear, starting with the name of his Nakshattra," Rishi Jamadagni instructed, gesturing for Krishna to lean closer.

With great reverence, Krishna lowered his lips to the baby's ear.

"Angaadangaat sambhavasi hridayaadadhijayase|

Atma vai putranamaasi sa jiva saradassatham||"

"You are born from each of my limbs. Heart is the abode of desire. Called "Putra", you are indeed my Atma (form). May you live a hundred years."

"Asma bhava parasur bhava hiranyamastrutam bhava|

Pasunam tva hinkarenaabhijighramyasou||"

"Son of Uttar Bhadrapad, I smell you like cows smell calves with the sound of 'him'. Be strong like a stone; Conquer others like an axe; Be handsome like unblemished gold."

"After this, honey and ghee should be mixed and taken with darbha, knotted with a hole at centre holding gold and given to the baby, chanting the remaining mantras.

Krishna carefully prepared the mixture.

"Now, Shri Krishna, gently touch his lips with this." Rishi Jamadagni instructed

Krishna held the tiny shlaka delicately as he brought it to the newborn's lips.

"As the father feeds the child, it is a reminder that after the mother, the father is the next to nurture him in this world."

Still sleepy from his recent nap, the baby instinctively parted his lips and accepted the offering. Krishna's heart swelled as he saw his son's tiny tongue taste the sweetness for the first time.

"Medham te Devassavita medham Devi Saraswati| Medham te Asvinou deva vadhattamam pushkarasraja||"

"May the effulgent Savita Deva, Saraswati Devi and Asvini Devas wearing lotus garlands bless you with Medha (power of retentive memory)."

"Tvayi medham tvayi prajam tvayyagnistejo dadhatu|

Tvayi medham tvayi prajam tvayeendra indriyam dadhatu|
Tvayi medham tvayi prajam tvayi Suryo bhrajo dadhatu||"

"May Agnideva bestow on you retentive memory, progeny and splendor and power. May Indra bestow on you retentive memory, progeny and power of Indriyas (sense organs). May Surya bestow on you retentive memory, progeny and brilliance."

"Now make a paste of fine lentil or moong flour. This will be applied to his body, marking his entrance into the world. And while applying this paste whisper mantras into his ears."

Krishna carefully dipped his fingers into the paste, his touch gentle as he applied it to his delicate skin and whispered the mantras in his ears.

"Kshetriyai tva Nirrutyai tva druhomunchami Varunasya pasat|

Anagasam Brahmane tva karomi sive te dyavaprithvi ubhe ime||"

"I release you from incurable disease, from Nirruti, the goddess of destruction, from treacherous persons and from Varuna's noose (disease called Mahodara, i.e. dropsy). I shall make you sinless and brahmana, fit to chant Vedas. May both Upper spheres and Earth be auspicious to you."

"Sam te Agnih: sahaadbhirastu sam dyavaprithvi sahoushadhibhih|

Sam antariksham sahavatena te sam te chatasrah: pradiso bhavantu||"
"May Agni, Water, Upper spheres, Earth, Herbs, Intermediate sphere and the four Directions be propitious to you."

"Ya Daivis chatasrah: pradiso vatapatnidabhi Suryo vichashte|

Taasam tvajarasa aadadhami prayakshma yetu Nirrutim paraachaih||"
"The four directions headed by Indra et al have Vayu at their head. Surya spreads his light in all those directions. I establish you till those directions become old. (May you live as long as directions exist). May the disease 'yakshma' (consumptive disease) run away from you, thus established, towards Nirruti."

"Amochi yakshmad duritaadavartyai druha: pasan Nirrutyai chodamochi|

Aha avartimavidatsyonamapyabhud bhadre sukritasya loke||"
"Child of Uttar Bhadrapad, you are now released from 'yakshma', sin, evil, treachery, Varuna's noose and Nirruti. He is freed from the misery of lack of livelihood. He gained happiness and auspicious worlds."

"Next, it is time for you, Devi, to nourish him with your milk. Place the infant on to your lap and chant these mantras"

Devashree nodded, feeling a rush of love as she cradled him closer. She gently guided him to her breast, whispering, "Here you go, my little one. This will make you strong."

As he latched on, Rishi Jamadagni continued, "Breastfeeding signifies the nurturing aspect of motherhood. It is the first step in providing sustenance, both physical and emotional, to your child.

II Ayam kumaro jaraam dhayatu dirghamayuh:|Yasmai tvam sthanaprapyayayur varcho yaso balam||"

"May this child, by suckling, drink old age and long life. (may live a long life). O breast, enable this child to develop long life, brilliance, fame, and strength."

"Now keep the child on Bhudevi"

Devashree together with Krishna, gently placed the baby on a soft cloth laid upon the sacred ground.

"Yatte suseeme hridayam vedaaham tatprajapatou|

Vedamathasyate vayam maaham poutramaghamrudam||"
"O Earth with nice borders, I know that your heart is with Prajapathi (Chandra). By touching you now, I must continue to know it for long. I should not have to weep due to my son's end."

"Sarvasmaadatmanah: sambhritaasi saajiva saradassatham||"

"You are created out of my entire body. May you live a hundred years."

"The sanskar is done successfully."

"What blessings would you give my son, Rishivar?"

"Shri Krishna, what blessing can I offer to a child who already carries the aashirwad of Adinarayana and was born within the purest of lotuses? But I will offer my blessing if you say so. May your son grow strong like the mountains and as deep as the ocean. May his heart be full of compassion, and his mind shine with wisdom. May he walk the path of dharma, guided by righteousness, truth, and courage. His name will be known for ages, and he will bring honor to his lineage."

"Dhanyawad Rishivar"

"Now, it is time for the father to take a bath in holy water, facing the north. This will purify you and bless your child further."

Krishna nodded, placing a soft kiss on his son's forehead before rising. "I'll be back soon,"

"And you Devi I can only tell you to keep your distance from your child."

Devashree frowned. "What are you saying Rishivar?"

Rishivar hesitated. "Devi, I mean no harm with my words. But it will be better for both you and your child . You are no ordinary mother. The entire fate of this universe resides in you. And fate works in mysterious ways. I only speak for your own sake. This child has his own destiny to fulfill. It will be better if you and your husband do not form much attachment with this child."

******

A/N

What should Devashree's answer be? Do tell me your thoughts. The future depends on it....

I did not know that a woman can bleed up to six to twelve weeks after birth. It's like periods taking revenge for not coming for 9 months. Why don't they tell us this? This is a great birth control measure. Don't you think? 🤣🤣

Also what else do you want to see with the baby?

Until next time.....❤️❤️