The sun was shining brilliantly in the clear blue sky, casting a warm and comforting glow over the land as it often did on such serene mornings. Birds filled the air with their cheerful melodies, flitting joyfully between the branches of the lush green trees. A gentle, cool breeze swept through the morning atmosphere, adding a touch of refreshing chill that made the weather exceedingly pleasant.

In this idyllic setting, a beautifully adorned palki, ornately decorated with intricate designs and vibrant colors, slowly made its way along the bustling road. It was flanked on all sides by a large contingent of soldiers, their armor glinting in the sunlight, as they escorted this important vehicle towards its destination. As the palki approached the magnificent palace of Hastinapur, its grandeur and architectural splendor became more evident, standing as a testament to its illustrious past and present significance. With a measured halt, the palki stopped gracefully at the grand entrance, drawing the attention of all who beheld it.

From within the palki emerged Jhanvi and Subhadra, their presence exuding an aura of elegance and grace as they stepped down onto the cobblestone pathway. Together, they walked towards the imposing gates of the palace, where they were met with open arms and warm smiles by the esteemed figures of Gandhari, Dhritrashtra, Bhism, Vidur, Kunti, and many others who had gathered to receive them. Gandhari, adorned in her regal attire, performed the welcoming aarti, waving the decorative lamp in small ceremonial circles before the guests.

With gratitude and respect, both Jhanvi and Subhadra bent down to touch Gandhari's feet. Their gesture was met with a fond smile and a silent blessing, completing the heartfelt welcome that marked the beginning of their stay at the illustrious palace of Hastinapur.



Gandhari gently placed her palm on Jhanvi's head, a gesture of affection and blessing, which brought a lively and warm smile to Jhanvi's face. She warmly said,

Gandhari :- Always remain happy and blessed, my dear. Welcome to Hastinapur! I truly hope your journey here was free of any troubles.

Jhanvi responded with respect,

Jhanvi :- No, Maharani, we faced no trouble at all. We are delighted to be here and to finally meet our dear friend, Dushala.

With a kind smile, Gandhari corrected her gently,

Gandhari :- Maharani... no need for such formality. You may call me Badi Maa. Am I not like your mother, after all?

Subhadra, standing beside Jhanvi, nodded in agreement, saying,

Subhadra :- Okay, Badi Maa.

The two of them proceeded to respectfully seek blessings from each of the elders present. When they reached Kunti, they reverently touched her feet, a sign of deep respect and love. Kunti looked at them with eyes filled with affection.

Kunti :- Always be happy, my dear daughters. It brings so much joy to my heart to see you here. You've grown so much since I last saw you, when you were just about 7 or 8 years old. But never mind that, come inside, most of your sakhis have already arrived and are eagerly waiting for you.

Their dear friend, Dushala, could not contain her excitement and immediately hugged Jhanvi and Subhadra with a joyful squeal. Jhanvi laughed softly, cautioning,

Jhanvi :- Slow down, Sakhi! We're here now, and we have all day to catch up and chat. Let's first head inside.

Dushala, full of enthusiasm, invited them warmly,

Dushala :- Yes, please, come in.

With hearts full of joy and anticipation, the group made their way inside together, ready to reunite with old friends.



Karn returned to his village after more than a decade, feeling a wave of nostalgia as he approached the familiar yet subtly altered gates. He paused at the entrance to take in the view, allowing his eyes to wander over the landscape that had once been his world. The village had certainly changed, though not as drastically as he might have expected. Some houses had grown into proud two-story structures, their new heights suggesting prosperity and progress. The roads, once bustling with people and livestock, were now less crowded and paved, hinting at a well-organized community rhythm. Instead of a single large market that dominated the scene in his childhood, there were now numerous mini stalls scattered about, each one competing for attention with colorful displays of goods. Karn couldn't help but sigh with a gentle smile.

Karn :- Can't wait to meet Radha maa.

He murmured to himself, thinking of the woman who likely awaited his return with eagerness and love. Just as he was about to make his way into the heart of the village, a sharp, playful voice called out from behind him.

"O Handsome!"

He turned, slightly startled, to find a young girl standing there, probably no more than fifteen years old. She was surrounded by a small gaggle of her friends, who giggled softly amongst themselves, intrigued by the new arrival. The girl smiled boldly, stepping forward with a certain youthful bravado.

"Where are you going, young man?"

She asked, eyeing him with a curious glint. Karn raised his eyebrows, amused by the unexpected encounter.

Karn :- To my home.

He replied simply, his voice warm yet firm. The girl huffed dramatically, appraising him from head to toe with a look that was both assessing and teasing.

"I think you're a newcomer, because you must not know that there's a charge for those who have arrived to settle."

She declared confidently, Karn's lips twitched in a barely suppressed smile.

Karn :- I don't think it's your age to flirt with strangers. And by the way, I was born and raised here. It's just that I have returned after many years.

The sakhis whispered amongst themselves, and he could see their expressions shift from playful teasing to genuine curiosity and interest.

He shook his head in frustration, letting out an exasperated sigh, and turned away, ready to walk off and leave the tense interaction behind him. However, before he could take more than a couple of steps, she swiftly moved to block his path, standing firmly in front of him once again with determination in her eyes. The girl, her expression set with indignation, spoke with a voice that brooked no argument.

"I haven't asked for any suggestions, Just pay your tax and go wherever you have to."

She reiterated firmly, placing emphasis on each word. Her tone was dismissive, as if she couldn't be bothered with his presence any longer. Karn felt a flicker of annoyance rise within him, a common occurrence when confronted with unwarranted confrontation. He crossed his arms over his chest, a subtle display of defiance.

Karn :- Why the hell should I pay you? Haven't your parents taught you that while asking something, you should talk politely?

He retorted, the irritation evident in his voice. His words were sharp and barbed, meant to slice through her composure and make her reconsider her approach. Instead of backing down, the girl's eyes flashed with anger at the mention of her parents.

"Who are you to talk about my parents? What's your name?"

She shot back, her voice tinged with a defensive edge. She demanded an answer, her curiosity piqued despite the hostility in their exchange. Karn, however, was unfazed. He adjusted the strap of the bag slung over his shoulder.

Karn :- I am not bound to answer each and every question of yours.

He replied with a dismissive shrug, making it clear that he had no intention of divulging any more information than he deemed necessary.

As the scene unfolded in the busy marketplace, more and more people, particularly young girls, gathered to witness the escalating argument between Karn and the brazen young girl who seemed to revel in the attention. Some of the onlookers were even giggling and whispering among themselves, their gazes fixated on Karn with a mixture of curiosity and admiration. His discomfort was palpable, and he shifted uncomfortably under the weight of their stares. Karn took a deep breath, trying to keep his composure.

Karn :- Let's just leave. I don't want to create any scene.

He said firmly, addressing the girl before him. His voice was steady, although his patience was wearing thin. The girl's eyes gleamed with mischief as a small smirk played on her lips, clearly unfazed by his attempt to de-escalate the situation. She leaned closer, her voice dripping with mock concern.

"Afraid of me?"

She taunted, circling him slowly as if she were a predator sizing up her prey. Her gaze raked over his muscular frame, and she continued her coaxing,

"Hmmmm... You don't look like a common man. These muscles are heavily built. Are you a soldier or a warrior? You must have come here to join the Hastinapur army."

She eyed him with a mix of arrogance and curiosity, fully aware that their exchange had captivated the attention of everyone nearby. Karn, however, could feel his patience evaporating. In a swift motion, he grasped her right hand firmly-not harshly, but with enough authority to command her attention. The girl swallowed hard, and the bravado in her eyes flickered momentarily as she registered the seriousness in his demeanor.

Karn :- Listen, girl, my name is Vasusen. I am the eldest son of the royal charioteer Adhirath Sushen.

He said, his voice tinged with an edge of irritation, his words were spoken with an undeniable authority and a hint of dignity that demanded respect.

Karn :- Now, excuse my way so that I can go and meet my parents who are waiting for me.

A soft breeze blew gently across the open field, delicately lifting Karn's hair and sweeping it back to reveal his glinting golden earrings. These ornaments, casting an ethereal glow that made his face look nothing short of heavenly. As the golden sunlight danced upon the earrings, the young girl stood in awe, her eyes widening in sudden recognition. Her astonishment quickly transformed into a radiant smile of pure joy and disbelief as she took a step forward, her heart racing with excitement.

"Jeysth Karn!"

She exclaimed, her voice a melodious echo of past memories. Karn, startled by the unexpected address and sudden change in her demeanor, paused momentarily. As he scanned her face, clouded expressions replaced by clarity and a soft realization dawned in his eyes; he recognized the familiar brightness of her gaze, one that could only belong to his younger sister.

Karn :- Shivangi!

He called out warmly. Affirming her identity with a nod brimming with excitement, she threw herself into his arms with enthusiasm. He wrapped his arms around her in a secure embrace as if anchoring a long-lost part of himself. Tears, glistening like dew under the morning sun, began to roll down Shivangi's cheeks-tears that spoke of years of longing and silent prayers as she clung to him.

Karn :- My little sister has grown up. I'm sorry I didn't recognize you.

He murmured, overwhelmed by emotion, gently stroking her hair in reassurance.

Shivangi :- It's okay, Jeysth. I've missed you so much. No one was happy after you went away.

She replied, her voice breaking slightly with soft sobbing. Karn caressed her head with a brotherly tenderness, a comforting presence amidst the whirlwind of emotions.

Karn :- Shhh... My dear sister, I didn't come back to see you cry. This is a moment to be happy.

Slowly, they broke the embrace. Karn tenderly wiped away her tears with his thumb, and Shivangi reciprocated with a small, resilient smile, eyes still glistening but now filled with warmth.

Shivangi :- I'm not crying. These are tears of happiness.

She insisted softly. Karn chuckled, a deep, resonant sound filled with relief and affection.

Karn :- Let's go and meet everyone.

He suggested, gesturing towards the path leading home. Shivangi helped him with his luggage, and together, side by side, they began to walk away.

As Karn and Shivangi strolled through the serene, tree-lined path, Karn occasionally stole glances at his sister, trying to gauge her thoughts. With the soft rustling of leaves and distant chirping of birds forming the backdrop, Karn gathered his thoughts and broke the silence.

Karn :- How are Pitashree and Radha Maa? What about Amrit and Shon?

Shivangi, her hands weary from the weight of the bag slung over her shoulder, adjusted it slightly for comfort. She took a moment to respond.

Shivangi :- They're fine, as always. Pitashree continues his daily duties with unwavering dedication. You know how meticulous he is. To support us better, he's taken up extra work as a mechanic, repairing chariots to bring in some additional income. Shon, our little helper, has been learning from him, always eager to lend a hand. As for Radha Maa, her love for you remains undiminished by distance. Not a single day goes by that she doesn't mention your name or recall a memory involving you. Every evening she stands at the threshold, looking into the horizon, hoping for your return. And the kheer, oh that special kheer, she prepares an extra serving each time, entirely convinced that you'll walk in to savor it with us one of these days...

As Shivangi's words drifted into the gentle breeze, she cast a tender glance at her elder brother. Karn exhaled deeply, a sigh resonant with the weight of past days spent apart from those he cherished.

Shivangi :- Bhrata?

Karn gently shook his head, a mix of emotions playing across his face.

Karn :- Oh, sorry... It wasn't easy for me to live without all of you either. You have no idea how much I missed every single one of you.

Sensing his lingering sorrow, Shivangi attempted to lift his spirits.

Shivangi :- But now you're back, and that's all that matters. Cheer up, Bhrata! Bharat Amrit also returned just a few days ago, completing our family once more.

Karn's curiosity piqued.

Karn :- Returned? Did he go somewhere?

Shivangi nodded, recalling the worry and eventual relief that Amrit's journey had brought.

Shivangi :- Yes, indeed. Not long after you left, he ran away from home. He was intent on pursuing knowledge and training under Sukracharya, whom he claims was his Guru. Speaking of which, you never told me who your mentor was during all this time away.

A flicker of pride sparked in Karn's eyes, and he stood a little taller, his confidence reflecting in his posture.

Karn :- My guru was none other than the great Parshuram.

Shivangi's face lit up with admiration and excitement for her brother's achievement, imagining how overjoyed their mother would be at this revelation.

Shivangi :- Wow! Maa will be ecstatic to hear this... To know that her son was guided by such a revered figure, it will fill her heart with even more pride and joy.

As Karn and Shivangi strolled leisurely down the dusty village path, the serene atmosphere was suddenly shattered by the sound of a young boy's cries echoing through the air. Their peaceful walk was interrupted as they noticed a congregation of villagers forming nearby. Karn and Shivangi exchanged a bewildered glance, silently deciding to approach the commotion.

Their curiosity led them into the heart of the crowd, and what they saw left Karn both surprised and perplexed. A small boy, no older than five or six, stood sobbing uncontrollably, his tiny hands clutching his ears in sheer distress. Beside him, a woman, presumably his mother, was on her knees, imploring the crowd for compassion and understanding. Her pleas, however, seemed to fall on deaf ears.

Presiding over this troubling scene was the village head, a stern figure brandishing an iron rod with an air of authority and judgment. His visage was hard and unyielding, as though carved from stone. Next to him stood the village priest, his face contorted in a mask of disgust and disapproval. The villagers whispered among themselves, a murmur of uncertainty and fear rippling through their ranks.

Karn, his heart moved by the scene, took a step forward. His voice, gentle yet resolute, broke through the cacophony of whispers.

Karn :- What's all this?

He asked, seeking clarity amidst the chaos. Shivangi, standing beside him, leaned in to whisper cautiously,

Shivangi :- The village head is conducting a trial.

Karn's confusion only deepened. He raised his voice, addressing the crowd with newfound authority,

Karn :- What's going on here?

The priest, whose patience was wearing thin, turned towards Karn with a look of increasing irritation.

Priest :- Who are you? Can't you see a trial is going on here?

He demanded, his voice sharp. Karn met the priest's gaze, his eyes narrowing as he sought answers.

Karn :- Trial? And for what?" he pressed, his voice unwavering.

The priest sneered, pointing an accusatory finger at the young boy.

Priest :- This low-class bastard has polluted my well.

He spat venomously. Karn's heart clenched at the derogatory words. His anger simmered beneath the surface, his knuckles white as he clenched his fists. Resolute, he dropped his baggage and approached the priest, the crowd parting before him.

With a stern expression and a voice that brooked no argument, Karn faced the priest.

Karn :- How can this five-year-old boy pollute your well? He is just a child.

He challenged, his words carrying the weight of both reason and empathy. The Priest was burning with rage, his eyes ignited with a fury that seemed almost unholy, as he glared menacingly at the trembling, crying boy before him. His robes flared around him like angry flames, and his hand shook as he pointed accusingly at the frightened child.

Priest :- This bastard, dared to drink water from my well, and now it is tainted, unusable for anything that requires purity or sanctity!

He spat, venom dripping from each word. The boy stood there, small and pitiful, his dirty face streaked with tears. His sobbing came in heaving waves, as he tried to find the words to defend himself, but his voice was fragile and weak.

"I'm... sorry, I was... thirsty... I will not... do it... again... I promise..."

He managed to blurt out between sobs, his head hung low in shame. But before he could say more, the Priest cut through the boy's pleas with a voice as sharp as a dagger,

Priest :- SHUT UP! You low born bastard, you will not speak until told! You have committed a grave sin against the divine order!

He thundered, his voice echoing across the gathering crowd. Although Karn felt a surge of anger welling up inside of him, he fought to keep his composure. Standing tall and unwavering, his impressive stature made for a striking contrast against the priest, who, despite his fury, seemed somewhat diminished in Karn's shadow. With a voice calm but filled with authority, Karn addressed the Priest,

Karn :- He's just a kid and he was thirsty. He didn't do anything malicious to the well; he was simply trying to quench his thirst, which is a basic human need. Surely, there is no need to conduct any form of trial over such a trivial matter. Everyone has equal rights to the resources provided by Mother Earth.

The crowd that had gathered around them began to murmur, their whispered conversations a ripple of intrigue and judgment. Some nodded in agreement with Karn's words, while others looked between the figures of the Priest and Karn, uncertain whom to side with in this moral conflict.

From the edge of the crowd, Shivangi watched her elder brother with wide eyes, her face a mixture of surprise and admiration. She couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at his courage to confront the Priest so publicly. She was guessing what he would do next.

Just then, the village head, a stern and imposing figure, stepped forward. His eyes were cold and hard as they fixed on the young boy standing by the well, trembling with fear.

"Don't you know the rules, young man? Low-caste people are not permitted to drink water from our wells. There is a sewer outside the village meant for you to collect and drink your water from. This is a violation of our age-old customs, and it cannot go unpunished."

He head proclaimed, his voice echoing through the tense morning air. His face twisted with disdain as he continued,

"For breaking this rule, he will be punished severely. I will personally deliver ten lashes with this iron rod, hard enough to break his bones. And let it be known, if there is a next time, I will not hesitate to drown him in this well myself. Now, leave this village at once!"

As he finished his ultimatum, a group of menacing villagers silently assembled behind him, each clutching a weapon in their hands. Their presence created an intimidating barrier between the village head and the frightened boy. Karn watched the disturbing scene unfold. The child's eyes, wide with desperation, locked onto Karn's, wordlessly pleading for help and mercy. Karn, exuding calm defiance, spoke up,

Karn :- You think this boy deserves punishment for breaking the rules? Then you should put me on trial, too, for I am about to do the same.

His voice cut through the growing tension like a knife, and he walked towards the well. With deliberate movements, he filled a bucket with water, raised it to his lips, and drank deeply, never breaking eye contact with the village head. The crowd watched, every moment charged with silent suspense. The child, still grasping his ears in submission, looked puzzled but somewhat hopeful as Karn gave him a reassuring nod. Enraged, the village head pointed the iron rod at Karn, his face flushed with anger.

"How dare you defy me, and that too, openly before everyone! You low-borns have forgotten your station; today I will remind you."

But before the village head could advance, Karn acted with swift precision. He lunged forward, snatching the iron rod from the village head's grasp and bending it effortlessly. The village head, momentarily staggered, sought to retaliate with a punch, but Karn was ready. He caught the village head's arm mid-air and twisted it until the sound of cracking bones resounded. The village head let out a scream of agony, his face contorted in pain.

With a powerful punch delivered square on the chest, Karn knocked him unconscious, leaving him sprawled on the dusty ground. The spectators stood in shock and awe at Karn's fearless display of strength and justice. The village head's men, their anger now piqued and mingled with fear, rushed at Karn in a frenzy. Yet, Karn moved with agility and grace, sidestepping their attacks and retaliating with precision and skill.

In a matter of moments, the would-be aggressors found themselves incapacitated, lying on the ground like scattered dolls. Karn stood tall amidst the commotion. Those who witnessed the confrontation felt a shift in the atmosphere-an understanding that bravery and justice had taken a stand against oppression and cruelty.

Karn's expression was resolute, but there was a harsh edge of defiance in his eyes that spoke of the storm brewing within him.

Karn :- From this day forward, everyone has the right to drink water from any well they choose, regardless of their caste or social standing. We will not tolerate discrimination; the water is for all, and it must remain untainted by prejudice. Should anyone dare to defy this decree and attempt to prevent another from accessing our shared water, they will face me and bear the consequences of their actions.

He declared, his voice strong and unwavering. The boldness of his proclamation hung in the air. Karn's words were met with a mix of awe and apprehension, a ripple of reactions that spread among those gathered. Faces that had once seemed weary and resigned were now alight with a glimmer of hope.

Karn turned his attention to a lone figure-a small boy who stood alone, tears tracing tracks down his dusty cheeks. Karn made his way each step purposeful and measured, until he reached the boy. With tenderness, Karn knelt and gently wiped the tears from the child's face, pulling him into a comforting embrace.

The boy clung to Karn, sobbing softly into his shoulder before looking up with an expression of gratitude and relief.

"Thank you,"

The boy whispered, his voice laced with both vulnerability and newfound courage. Karn smiled gently, reassuringly.

Karn :- It's okay, brave man. You've shown great courage today. If anyone else tries to threaten you, you come straight to me. I'll stand by your side. But tell me, why did you risk it? You knew the danger, yet you went ahead.

The boy, his voice quivering with emotion, confessed,

"I'm really sorry. We are just so poor. Mata doesn't have enough money to buy medicines. Our only option was for me to run to the nearby village to get cheaper ones. I was so thirsty and just needed a drink of water, but when they saw me, they threw the medicines away."

The boy pointed to a crumpled pouch lying discarded in the dirt, its contents ruined by careless, harsh footprints. Karn followed the boy's gaze, his expression darkening with anger and sadness as he took in the sight.

"If Pitashree doesn't get his medicines in time, his condition will get worse. Please, help us."

The boy continued, his voice breaking.

Karn enveloped the boy in another hug, offering solace through his strength, then gently framed the boy's face with his hands.

Karn :- No, my friend, you have no reason to beg. You've shown more courage than many men twice your age. I will help you.

With that, Karn reached into his belongings, retrieving a small pouch filled with the humble earnings he had accumulated. Approaching the boy's mother, who watched the scene with weary eyes glistening with unshed tears, he offered her the pouch with both hands.

Karn :- Kaki, this is everything I have for now. I hope it will be enough to buy the medicines your family needs.

He addressed her respectfully. Tears of gratitude slipped down her cheeks as she joined her hands in thanks, murmuring her appreciation with a voice heavy with emotion. In the background, Shivangi watched Karn with a pride that shone in her eyes, while the rest of the crowd responded with applause, their hearts stirred by the act of kindness and justice they had witnessed.

Among them, however, stood the Priest, his expression dark and furrowed, determination set hard in his features. He silently vowed that this challenge to tradition would not go unanswered.

Karn made his way to retrieve his luggage, but just as he reached for it, he felt a firm hand clamp down on his shoulder, halting him in his tracks. Startled, he spun around to find himself face-to-face with another man, whose eyes were filled with a fiery intensity.

"How did you dare threaten the village priest?"

The man growled, his voice low and menacing. Karn met his glare with a narrowed gaze of his own.

Karn :- Didn't you see what he was trying to do? It was a useless trial!

He retorted, his tone sharp and unyielding. The tension between the two was palpable, a palpable storm ready to break.

In an impulsive move, the man swung his fist towards Karn, but Karn was quicker. With a steady hand, he caught the strike mid-air, their fists locked in a silent clash of wills. Both stared into each other's eyes, their expressions marked by simmering anger that showed no signs of abating. Suddenly, the air around them shifted as Shivangi intervened, stepping between the two men with a calming presence.

Shivangi :- Stop, both of you, bhrata Amrit, he is bhrata Karn.

She implored gently but firmly. Her eyes darted back and forth between Karn and Amrit, seeking understanding. Karn, taken aback, took a moment to truly see Amrit. The once young boy had grown, towering like a warrior. An involuntary smile of pride tugged at Karn's lips. Yet, Amrit's expression remained stony and even more inflamed with indignation at the sight of Karn's familiar face.

Karn :- Amrit, you're so grown-up. I can't believe I am standing in front of a man who used to be that little boy with the nose that never stopped running.

Karn's laughter filled the space between them as he opened his arms for an embrace. But in a flash, Amrit's hands thrust him away, sending a jolt of confusion through Karn. Without another word, Amrit turned on his heel and strode off, his back rigid with unresolved anger. Karn stood frozen for a moment, trying to make sense of the encounter.

Karn :- Whoa... What happened to this guy?

He asked, bewilderment painting his features. Shivangi sighed softly, exuding a quiet empathy.

Shivangi :- I don't know, since he returned, he behaves so oddly-distant, aloof, speaking to no one, always seeming lost in his own world. Let's put it aside for the moment and make haste to see Mata. It's time to surprise her.

She admitted, her voice tinged with concern. She tried to pick up a bag, straining her muscles as she gripped it with one hand, but it didn't budge a bit. She crouched down, placed one hand on each side of the bag, and tried lifting it with all her might. Still, the bag remained stubbornly rooted to the ground. As she let out a frustrated huff, Karn couldn't help but chuckle at her futile attempts.

Karn :- You can't lift it, no matter how much you try. It's not just any ordinary bag, you know. It can only be lifted by me.

She narrowed her eyes, folding her arms across her chest, her curiosity piqued.

Shivangi :- Well, why is that?

She demanded, eyeing him suspiciously. She couldn't understand what was so special about the bag or why only he could manage to lift it. Karn simply winked at her, his expression playful.

Karn :- Ah, it's a secret. But don't worry, I'll tell you all about it afterwards, when the time is right.

With that, Karn effortlessly picked up the bag as though it weighed no more than a feather, and they both started walking towards their house.



Karn's emotions were racing in his heart like a wild storm as he noticed the familiar surroundings enveloping him. There was a strange mix of nostalgia and anxiety bubbling within him. People who saw him along the street wore puzzled expressions, their eyes following him with curiosity and wondering who this stranger was. A few young girls passed by, giggling nervously as they eyed him from top to bottom, clearly intrigued by the unfamiliar yet strangely familiar figure in their midst.

Karn and Shivangi finally came to a halt in front of a medium-sized house. His breathing quickened, and he felt his chest tighten as if reacting to the sight of his childhood home, a place he hadn't laid eyes on in years. With slow, deliberate steps, he reached forward, his hand trembling slightly as he pushed open the gate, the creaking sound echoing softly through the neighborhood as he entered.

Inside, his heart pounded wildly, each beat resonating in his ears as he inhaled the fragrance of memories long forgotten yet instantly remembered. It was as if the very air was infused with the scent of his childhood, a mix of fresh flowers and the warm earthy aroma of home. He walked inside, his eyes scanning the familiar nooks and crannies, each corner evoking a flood of cherished memories. He moved cautiously, almost as if fearing to disturb the refuge of his past, but then he stopped abruptly.

In the courtyard, his mother stood, gently removing dried clothes from the ropes, her movements delicate and rhythmical. The sight of her after all these years was both overwhelming and heartwarming. A couple of tears, unbidden, trickled down his cheeks as he took in the unchanged sight of his mother; she seemed the same except for a few strands of white hair that gracefully adorned her head. Slowly, he entered the courtyard, his emotions a swirling tempest within him. With a voice thick with emotion, he spoke,

Karn :- Radha maa!

Radha spun around abruptly at the sound of her name being called. Her eyes widened in disbelief, yet her heart, her motherly instincts confirmed what her eyes wanted to deny. Standing there at the entrance to the courtyard was a tall, handsome man, but more importantly, he was her eldest son. Her eyes filled with tears as the realization hit her; the apple of her eye had returned.

Radha :- Vasusen!

She cried out, her voice a loving whisper of astonished joy. With tears blurring his vision, Karn ran forward and enveloped his mother in the tightest of hugs. Radha, with years of longing and love pent up inside, embraced her son just as firmly, her heart overflowing with an indescribable mixture of relief, happiness, and affection. It had been so long, too long, since she last held him in her arms, and now that she did, it was as if no time had passed at all. The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them, reunited at last.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvn4kBBnRO4

Shivangi wiped away her tears, her heart heavy with emotion, and quietly made her way through the bustling house to inform her father and twin brother of Karn's arrival.

Meanwhile, Radha was embracing Karn tightly, filled with the warmth that only a mother's touch can bring. The world seemed to pause for a moment as they reveled in their long-awaited reunion. Breaking the hug gently, Radha cupped his cheeks, feeling the stubble on his skin, a reminder to the many years that had passed since she last held him so close. She pressed a kiss to his forehead.

In response, Karn bent down with reverence, touching her feet in a mark of respect. Radha blessed him, her voice vibrating with emotion as she said,

Radha :- Ayushman bhava, son.

Wishing him a long and prosperous life. She lightly patted his head with a loving gesture, a silent assurance that her love would always be with him. Overcome with emotion, Karn wrapped his arms around her once again, cherishing the warmth and comfort of her embrace. Pulling back just a bit, Radha looked at him with teary eyes,

Radha :- How are you, son? You've grown up to be so tall. How has my son been all these years? I have missed you so much, my darling boy. O Narayan, thank you for taking care of my son, my gem.

Her words flowed in a heartfelt rush, as if to make up for all the time lost. Karn, feeling the warmth of her love, wiped away his tears with the back of his hand, a large, earnest smile gracing his face.

Karn :- You won't believe me, Radha maa. All these years, I have been taught by the great Guru Parshuram. I... I want to show you something.

He said, his voice tinged with excitement. With a flourish of pride, he opened his bag and carefully drew out his bow. It was glowing with a mysterious bluish light, almost as if it were alive with its own power. She reached out to caress the bow, her fingers tracing along its surface with reverent admiration. Her eyes glistened with pride and wonder as she gazed at her son, recognizing the significance of his achievement.

Karn :- Radha maa, this is Mahadev's dhanush, the great Pinak. Devrishi Narad himself gave it to me, and you know what...

He began to share the stories of his adventures and achievements, weaving tales of valor and learning that captivated her completely. Radha chuckled, her heart swelling with pride as she interjected lovingly,

Radha :- Son, first come with me. Let's sit and talk, I have your favourite kheer ready.

They moved into the main hall, where Karn settled down on the comfortable sofa. Radha fed him the kheer she had prepared with her own hands. As he relished the sweet dish, Karn shared the experiences and insights he had gathered during his extensive training.

Radha's happiness knew no bounds. She listened intently, her heart soaring with pride and joy as she absorbed every detail of her son's journey. The house, once echoing with silence, was now filled with the jubilant air of family reunion.

While they were talking, Adhirath and Shon entered the room, their presence momentarily pausing the conversation. Karn, upon seeing his father, immediately rose from his seat and approached him. He bowed low, touching his father's feet. Adhirath, in turn, embraced Karn warmly, pulling him into a tight hug that belied his usually stern exterior. Although Adhirath often appeared harsh and unyielding, his love for his children, especially his eldest son Karn, ran deep and undisguised. His heart brimmed with pride and joy at Karn's accomplishments, making him perhaps the happiest man alive in that moment. As he released Karn from the embrace, Adhirath affectionately patted his son's head.

Adhirath :- Vasusen! You're back at last. You have no idea how concerned we were during your absence. The household felt incomplete without you, and there was an air of unease, a constant longing for your return. But now that you are here, tell me, how did your journey fare over these years? Were you able to find a teacher, a guide to help you pursue and fulfill your dreams as you aspired?

As Karn settled back in, the atmosphere in the room turned light and jubilant. The evening unfolded in a tapestry of warmth, filled with animated conversations, shared memories, and infectious laughter. They sat together, indulging in tales of past experiences. Karn narrated stories of his travels, the challenges he had encountered, and the lessons learned. He spoke of mentors who had shaped his path and adversities that had tested his resolve. In return, Adhirath recounted events that had transpired in their world since Karn had been away, weaving tales of local happenings and family anecdotes.

The familial bond only grew stronger as the hours slipped by unnoticed, marked by the tinkling of laughter, the comforting humility of parental wisdom, and the undeniable joy that punctuates reunions after long separations.



Did you like the chapter ?

I am very disappointed by reaction from previous chapter. Guys, without your support and love there won't be any enthusiasm to write new chapters.

Target :- 30 votes.

IMP :- Till the end of story, Karn will have 6 wives (including Suchitra). Please don't get offended.

Do comment if you have any suggestions.

How do you think will Karn and Bhisma meet ?