Bheem sat cross-legged on the cool marble floor of Kunti's chamber, the warm light from the oil lamps flickering gently across the intricate patterns on the walls. The room was adorned with delicate tapestries, each one telling a story of the Pandavas' lineage, with rich colors and gold thread woven into the fabric. Kunti sat beside him, her expression a mix of concern and relief, her eyes searching his face for any signs of distress after his harrowing experience.
Bheem took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the story he was about to share. "Mother," he began, his voice steady yet carrying the gravity of what had transpired. "When I fell into the river, I thought that was the end. But instead of drowning, I found myself sinking deeper and deeper until the current took me to a place unlike any I've ever seen."
He paused, recalling the strange yet wondrous sight. "The river's depths opened up into a vast cavern, filled with shimmering light that seemed to come from the stones themselves. The walls were covered in jewels—emeralds, rubies, and sapphires—each glowing with an inner fire. And there, amidst the sparkling stones, was a grand throne made of solid gold, shaped like a serpent."
Kunti listened intently, her hand resting on Bheem's arm, as if to reassure herself that he was really there, safe and sound. Bheem continued, his voice softening as he spoke of what happened next.
"Seated on that throne was King Vasuki, the ruler of the serpents. His presence was powerful, commanding, yet not frightening. His body was covered in shimmering scales that reflected the light, and his eyes—deep, ancient, and wise—seemed to look right through me. He spoke to me, Mother, in a voice that was both hissing and melodic."
Bheem's eyes grew distant as he remembered the conversation.
Vasuki's Lair
The air in the cavern was thick with moisture, carrying the scent of earth and minerals. The floor beneath Bheem's feet was smooth and cool, polished by the passage of time and water. The ceiling arched high above, disappearing into darkness, while the glow of the gemstones provided an ethereal light that made the entire space feel like a dream.
Vasuki's throne was elevated on a dais, surrounded by coiled serpents that watched Bheem with unblinking eyes. As Bheem approached, the serpents parted, allowing him to step closer to the mighty king of the nagas.
"Welcome, son of Kunti," Vasuki had said, his voice echoing through the cavern. "You are not just a prince of men but also carry the blood of the nagas within you."
Bheem had bowed his head, unsure of what to say. The revelation of his lineage was both shocking and intriguing, but he felt no fear. Instead, a sense of belonging washed over him.
Vasuki had smiled, a subtle but warm expression, and continued, "Your mother, Kunti, is a nag lineage, and through her, you possess the strength of our kind. I have brought you here to bestow upon you a gift—one that will make you stronger than ever before."
Vasuki had gestured to a golden chalice held by a smaller serpent at his side. The chalice was filled with a liquid that shimmered like molten gold. "Drink this," Vasuki instructed. "It will enhance the power within you, granting you the strength of ten thousand elephants. This gift is my blessing to you, Bheem, for you are a bridge between our worlds."
Bheem had taken the chalice with reverence, drinking the liquid in one swift motion. As the warmth spread through his body, he felt a surge of energy, unlike anything he had ever experienced. It was as if his very muscles had been infused with the might of the earth itself.
Vasuki had watched him, his eyes glowing with satisfaction. "Go now, and use this strength to protect those you love. But remember, with great power comes great responsibility."
Back in Kunti's Chamber
Bheem finished recounting the tale, his voice filled with awe at the memory of his encounter with the great serpent king. "Mother," he said, turning to Kunti, "Vasuki told me that I have the blood of the nagas in me because of you. He gave me this gift because he said it was my destiny."
Kunti's eyes glistened with tears, not of sorrow, but of pride and acceptance. She placed her hands on Bheem's broad shoulders, feeling the strength that now radiated from him. "My son," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly, "you are destined for greatness. Vasuki saw in you what I have always known—that you are not just a warrior, but a protector, a guardian of our people."
Bheem nodded, his resolve firm. "I will use this strength to protect our family, Mother. I promise you that."
Kunti smiled, her heart swelling with love for her son. "I have no doubt that you will, Bheem. You are a true son of Kunti and a true son of the nagas."
They sat together in silence for a moment, the bond between mother and son growing even stronger in the shared knowledge of their heritage. The flickering light of the lamps cast their shadows on the walls, two figures united by love, strength, and destiny.