Nearly three months had passed since Balram left for Indraprastha. At first, Subhadra counted the days, eagerly waiting for a letter or news of her brothers. But as time went on, she found herself adjusting—learning, growing, and realizing just how vast the world was.

Even though she was still only a child, and even her age still hasn't change, she felt like she had learned so much. But she also understood that there was even more she didn't know.

Today was another lesson in economy and governance with her Rukmini Bhabhi.

Little Subhadra sat attentively, her eyes fixed on the scrolls in front of her as Rukmini explained trade policies and taxation. Though the subject was difficult, she was determined to learn.

When they finally finished, Subhadra stretched her arms with a tired sigh. "Bhabhi," she said, turning to Rukmini with wide, curious eyes. "I miss Dau and Bhrata Krishna so much. What about you? Do you miss Bhrata Krishna?"

Rukmini smiled softly, setting aside the scroll she was reading.

"Of course, I do, gudiya. But my love for Kanha is not just about being by his side. I know that wherever he is, he is fulfilling his dharma, his duty. And I will always support him, no matter how far he may be."

Subhadra listened carefully, absorbing Rukmini’s words. There was so much love in them—so much devotion. She admired Rukmini deeply.

"You are very wise, Bhabhi," she said with a small smile.

Before Rukmini could respond, a maid entered and bowed. "Pranipat Maharani, Pranipat Rajkumari, Senapati Kritavarma is waiting in the training ground for Rajkumari Subhadra. It is time for your sword lesson."

Subhadra sighed dramatically but stood up anyway. She turned to Rukmini and hugged her tightly. "I will see you later, Bhabhi!"

Rukmini chuckled and patted her back. "Train well, Bhadre."

*****

In the training ground, Kritavarma stood waiting, arms crossed. He held out a wooden sword for her.

"Come, Rajkumari. Let us begin."

Subhadra took the sword and got into position, ready for his instructions. They trained for a long time, longer than usual. Kritavarma made her repeat her movements over and over until her arms ached and sweat dripped from her forehead.

"Again," he commanded.

Subhadra gritted her teeth. She swung the wooden sword once more, but her body was exhausted. Her arms trembled, and finally, she could take no more.

With a frustrated cry, she threw the sword onto the ground and stomped her foot.

"Enough! I am tired!"

Then, much to Kritavarma’s surprise, she dropped to the ground and rolled over, throwing a full tantrum like a stubborn child.

At that moment, Satyaki arrived at the training ground and immediately burst into laughter.

"What kind of childish behavior is this, Subhadra?" he asked, amused.

Subhadra pouted and crossed her arms. "I am a child! Why do I need to train this hard, Bhrata Kritavarma? Don’t I have all of Yadav warriors on my side? Wouldn't they protect me?"

Kritavarma let out a long sigh, rubbing his forehead.

"Subhadra, warriors do not train for themselves alone. They train to protect others. Strength is not just about battle—it is about responsibility. You are a princess of Dwarka. If you can defend yourself, you can also protect those who rely on you."

Subhadra blinked, falling silent. She hadn’t thought about it that way before.

Satyaki chuckled, patting her head. "That was a good answer, Kritavarma. But enough sword training for now." He grinned mischievously at Subhadra. "Come, let’s go to our mango orchard. Let’s see if our rajkumari can hit down mangoes with her archery skills."

Subhadra gasped in excitement and immediately turned to Kritavarma with an innocent smile.

"I’m sorry, Bhrata Kritavarma," she said sweetly. "Please don’t be mad at me."

Kritavarma sighed again. He knew she was just saying that so she could leave, but he didn’t argue.

With a delighted laugh, Subhadra grabbed Satyaki’s hand and ran toward the orchard, already forgetting her exhaustion.

Kritavarma shook his head, watching them go. "Like brother like sister I guess," he muttered.

To Be Continued…