The moon hung high in the night sky as Vihaan returned to Gokul, his heart heavy with the weight of Upananda's words and the looming threat of Kansa. The journey back had been a solitary one, filled with introspection and a growing sense of purpose.
As he entered the familiar confines of his home, he was greeted by the warm glow of the hearth and the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. Maya, his mother, was sitting by the fire, her face illuminated by the dancing flames.
"Vihaan, my son," she said, her voice filled with concern. "You look troubled. What is it?"
Vihaan knelt beside her, taking her hands in his own. He told her about his meeting with Upananda, about the growing unrest in Mathura, and the plans being made to resist Kansa's tyranny.
Maya listened intently, her eyes widening with each revelation. When Vihaan finished, she remained silent for a long moment, her mind racing to process the implications of his words.
Finally, she spoke, her voice calm but firm. "My son, you have been given a great responsibility," she said. "The path you have chosen is fraught with danger, but it is also the path of righteousness. I cannot stop you, nor would I want to. But I implore you, be careful. Do not let your courage blind you to the risks."
Vihaan nodded, his heart swelling with gratitude for his mother's unwavering support. He knew that she worried for his safety, but he also knew that she trusted in his judgment and believed in his cause.
"I will be careful, Ma," he promised. "But I cannot turn away from what I know is right."
Maya smiled, a tear rolling down her cheek. She reached out and cupped his face in her hands, her gaze filled with love and pride. "You are a good man, Vihaan," she said. "Always remember who you are, and where you come from. And never forget that your mother will always be here for you, no matter what."
Vihaan leaned into her embrace, feeling the warmth of her love enveloping him. In that moment, all his doubts and fears melted away. He knew that he was not alone in this fight, that he had the support of his family, his friends, and his own unwavering sense of purpose.
As he pulled away, he looked into his mother's eyes, a newfound determination in his own. "Thank you, Ma," he said. "Your words give me strength. I will not let you down."
Maya smiled, her heart swelling with a mother's love and pride. She knew that her son was destined for greatness, and she would be there to witness it every step of the way.