Shatru Sesham: Sequel of Baahubali ✔️

Chapter Five

In the practice arena,
Mahendra and Bhagiradhi were still practicing their sword fighting moves when a messenger intervened. While still practicing, he asked the messenger to give the message with a slight tilt of his head and expression of the eyes.

"Maharaj, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the army, Kattappa has summoned an emergency meeting."

Mahendra said, "Avanthika....."

He did not complete the sentence but his wife understood what he intended to say. She reassured him, "You carry on. I will stay with Bhagiradhi and take care of her."

Mahendra with his eyes brimming with tears of gratitude, "Thank you......and sorry......I assured you that this time would be yours and Bhagiradhi's but....."

"It's alright! Everything that is yours is mine....Your duties, responsibilities and goals as well......So in discharging them you are actually spending time with me."

Mahendra and Rajmata Devasena left hastily while Avanthika and Bhagiradhi remained behind.

Bhagiradhi: Where did father go Amma?

Avanthika: He had some important work darling.

Bhagiradhi: But he promised me!

Avanthika: But I am here for you, am I not?

Bhagiradhi: You are there.......You are always there.......But father isn't?

Avanthika: Your father and I are one and the same. Our goals, priorities, duties, responsibilities, and dreams are shared. There are times when I cannot be there or do things for you. Then your father will be both your mother and father for you. Similarly there are times when your father cannot be with you. During those times, I will be both your mother and father.

Bhagiradhi: Amma, everyone keeps telling that a son will come this time and take care of all of us and Mahishmati. I feel happy that I am going to have a brother to play with and share everything that I have. But at times I do feel bad that I mean so little to everyone. Even to Kattappa Thatha who usually makes much of me. These days all he talks and thinks about is Gajendra. Everyone talks as though I am a temporary guest and that I am going to go somewhere while Gajendra will remain here forever. Is only Gajendra everything and Bhagiradhi nothing? Can't I take care of Mahishmati and you and father just like Gajendra?

Avanthika: Before I answer your questions, tell me who this particular Gajendra is of whom you seem to be so jealous?

Just then Avanthika momentarily stopped as though she was hit hard by something within her body.

Bhagiradhi: Oh.......that. That is the name I have given to my little brother. See how strong and powerful he is. He literally throws you overboard when he kicks just like he did now.

Avanthika: Bhagiradhi, how come you never shared this with me? I share my everything with you.

Bhagiradhi: I told only father about this yesterday night after you fell asleep.

Avanthika: Oh.......In that case, I ought to be jealous of your father which I am not. I know I mean just as much to you as your father. Similarly, we care just as much for you as we care for your brother....... I know that what you are feeling at the present moment is natural and also human. You think that everyone cares about your brother......But you have not seen how it was when you were born......I have seen it......and I know how much everyone loves you.....
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Four and half years ago,
The populace of Mahishmati were dancing with joy. Celebrations were held in every corner of the kingdom. Sweets were distributed and lamps were lit. Fire crackers were being burst. Thanksgiving prayers were being offered in all the places of worship. People spoke to one another, "Mana devata......mana Sivagami Amma malli ee rupam lo vachindi!" (Our Goddess......our Sivagami Amma has come again to us in this form!)