Sun rose with a new charm, adding to the beauty of nature. Subhadra woke up, stretching and yawning, she rubbed her eyes and sat up. 'You're late' a voice informed her. She turned to see her sister sitting in front of mirror, adjusting her dress.

Subhadra :- Can I ask for whom is all this makeup and that too so early ?

Jhanvi :- Looks like my little sister will remain dumb, don't you remember what bua said, today everyone has to be present in the rajya sabha. Now only half an hour is left, I thought to go and help bua in preparations.

Subhadra :- (getting up from bed) Why didn't you wake me up then, I need to hurry. I'm gonna be late for sure.

Jhanvi :- No one's gonna eat you up for a few minutes, so relax, I thought to let you rest as you were sleeping so peacefully.

Subhadra :- I was tired last night, we didn't realise it got pretty late while practicing dance.

Jhanvi :- It's okay, I am going, get ready and meet me in the hall.



Saying so, she went away, closing the door behind her.

Rajya sabha was going to begin in a few minutes, Subhadra hurriedly walked through the corridor, she had to reach the hall on time. As she was about to walk down the stairs, her feet slipped and she fell down, at the same moment Arjun passed by, his eyes widened but before he could do anything, she fell upon him and due to jerk their lips met each other's. Both got shocked at what happened, they stood numb for a moment, she regained her senses, got up and apologized. Arjun smiled akwardly, unable to comprehend what just happened, 'did she kiss him, no, that was mere accident but how did she fell down'.

She couldn't look him in the eyes due to embarrassment and turned to leave but got shocked again. Her elder sister and Pallavi stood, open mouthed, they too were unable to believe what just happened.

Pallavi :- I... think... we.... came at the wrong moment, (holding Jhanvi's hand) lets go.

She dragged Jhanvi away, who was still wondering about what she saw. Subhadra cursed the timing, now her elder sister will not leave a single chance to tease her.

She left immediately, Arjun too walked away thinking of an excuse to give if someone asks what happened.

Rajya sabha was set, all the courtiers were present, members of royal family occupied their seats. Very front, in the center was the throne, occupied by Dhritrashtra, Sanjay stood beside to narrate everything. On his left was the seat of Gandhar Raj Shakuni, beside him sat his dearest nephew Duryodhan, other Kauravs were behind them. Right side starts with Vidur, then Bhisma, Pandavs sat beside him. Other courtiers sat further ahead, on both sides, leaving a straight path till the entrance. Second floor was occupied by the ladies, Kunti sat with Gandhari to explain her the proceedings. Jhanvi sat with her sister and sakhis.

But aside all this, there was something strange. Pandu's bow was kept on a table, in the center. Everyone except Kunti and Bhisma wondered what was going to happen and why everyone needed to be present all of a sudden.

Dhritrashtra :- Tatshree, what's the reason for the announcement ? We all have gathered.



Bhisma stood up and took a deep breath, he glanced at Shakuni from the corner of his eye then looked at the beautiful bow kept at the center.



Bhisma :- As all the princes have returned from gurukul, it's time to discuss about yuvraj and future Maharaj of Hastinapur.

Shakuni got up with an evil smirk.

Shakuni :- Is there anything to discuss tatshree, my bhanje Duryodhan's father is Maharaj, his mother is Maharani, yuvraj is standing in front of your eyes, then why is all this formality.

Except Dhritrashtra and Kauravs, no one seemed pleased by those words.

Bhisma :- Gandhar Raj, first of all don't address me as tatshree. Relations are made on trust and respect, but in this case neither of them is available. Second, do you know why this bow is kept here ?

Shakuni :- No.

Bhisma :- Then I'll advise you to just sit down and listen to what I have to say.

Shakuni sat down, not before looking at him suspiciously. Bhisma glanced at Kunti, who looked nervous, he thought for a moment then decided to speak.

Bhisma :- This is Pandu's bow, he wanted to hand it over to the eldest and most eligible heir to Hastinapur throne. After his death, this bow got bound by his soul and now it can only be lifted by the said person. As Duryodhan and Yudhisthir are eldest among Kauravs and Pandavs, I request both of them to step ahead and try to lift it.

Duryodhan got up proudly and went towards the bow. He smirked, gripping the handle with one hand, then tried to lift it. But to his surprise, bow didn't budge from its place, he glanced around then applied more force, still no result. He held the bow with both hands and applied full power, his face became red, his shoulder muscles and biceps became visible, his nerves seemed as if they will burst out. After few moments, he left the bow and stumbled on table due to exhaustion.

4 Pandavs were trying their best to control themselves from laughing badly while Yudhisthir stood with an expressionless face. Bhisma gestured him to go and try, he glanced at his brothers to get reassuring nods.



Taking a deep breath, he walked upto the bow and joined his hands, then gripping the bow tightly, he tried to lift it. To everyone's surprise, he too was unable to move the bow even a bit. He applied all his strength but the bow seemed to weigh more than mountains. He too came back and stood beside his brothers.

Bhisma :- So, none of you was able to lift it ?

Shakuni got up again, he couldn't understand what this old man in white clothes was upto.

Shakuni :- What does it mean Mahamahim ?

Bhisma :- It means, eldest and most eligible heir to Hastinapur throne is neither Yudhisthir, nor Duryodhan.

Most of the people sitting, were scratching their head in confusion, wondering where this topic was going.

Dhritrashtra :- You have confused everyone tatshree, will you please elaborate what you want to say.

Bhisma :- I am going to tell everyone a truth, that had been hidden from everyone since the beginning. Kunti and Pandu have a son elder than both Yudhisthir and Duryodhan, the eldest Pandav, eldest of the younger generation of Kuru vansh.



Everyone was shocked inside out. Courtiers seemed as if their eyes will pop out, Shakuni and Dhritrashtra were confused and shocked. Duryodhan was slowly loosing his temper, only thing stopped him from storming out is mamashree's grip on his wrist. 5 brothers glanced at their mother to know whether this was truth and she noded to confirm their doubts. Yudhisthir felt sad, he had an elder brother but his mother didn't tell him.

Dhritrashtra :- Is it true tatshree ? Where is he then ? Why is he not with other princes ? How....

Bhisma :- Wait putra. Let me first complete my words. He was blessing of Suryadev to Kunti and Pandu, he was born with a divine impenetrable armour on his body and golden earrings on his ears. Pandu knew that in the atmosphere of constant enmity and tension, a future king cannot be raised properly and taught all the responsibilities. So we decided that he will be raised among common people, so that he can experience all the pains, injustices and unjust norms of society. This way he will understand the problems and feelings of public, he will be able to communicate with them better.

Shakuni :- How can you say that he is the most eligible heir. I mean he is raised among common people, he wouldn't be knowing how to raise weapons or to read and write etc. I don't think people of Hastinapur would like to have a king who relies on others.



Shakuni didn't wanted to let go of this opportunity, he knew that in presence of an elder brother, Yudhisthir will never agree to ascend the throne, so he just needs to somehow prove this mysterious man unworthy, all problems solved. He laughed mentally. Pandavs were glaring at Shakuni for insulting their elder brother, but they couldn't do anything in front of their pitamah. Kunti looked at Shakuni exhaperated, this man will never change.

Bhisma :- You don't need to worry about him Gandhar Raj, he is taught and trained by the same guru, who deprived this earth of adharmi kshatriyas 21 times.

Shocked expression on everyone's face was increasing with every second.

Bhisma :- He is student of Bhagwan Parsuram, slayer of mighty Banasur. I believe you had something in your mind Gandhar Raj, when doubting the power of a warrior who dares to threaten Devraj Indra and defeat him.

Shakuni gritted his teeth looking at him, he didn't expected Bhisma to answer his questions like this, now it won't be that easy to make way further.

Dhritrashtra :- So, where is he now tatshree ? Why hasen't he shown up ?

Bhisma :- He returned from ashram just a couple days ago, don't worry, everyone can see him during Kala Pradarshan. He will also be among the participants.

Duryodhan wanted to object but Shakuni held his hand to stop him.



Shakuni :- Let it be mere bhanje, already your impression isn't good in front of others, don't risk anymore. If he is going to participate, let him, defeat him in front of everyone and prove yourself worthy.

Duryodhan :- What if things get out of hand ?

Shakuni :- We'll see, first I need to know who he is.

Duryodhan didn't understood but seeing the smirk on his uncle's face, he relaxed a bit.

Bhisma :- This is it, thanks to everyone for attending the meeting, hope you all understood the motif and give eldest son of Pandu, all the respect and blessings that he deserves. Court is over.

Slowly all the members and courtiers exited the hall, ventilation was left open as dwarpal closed the gates after everyone left.

5 brothers walked in the corridors with little saddened and thoughtful expressions.

Nakul :- Mata could have told us atleast, we are here walking like idiots, don't even know who is our eldest brother.

Arjun :- She must have had her reasons Nakul, didn't you saw that except pitamah, no one else knew about him.

Bheem :- I wonder where would he be, and what he must be doing.

Sahdev :- Does he know that we are his younger brothers ?

Yudhisthir :- Pitamah said that we will get to see him during Kala Pradarshan.

They walked towards Kunti's chamber to have a talk.

In the evening, Kunti and Bhisma were ready to go and meet Adhirath and his family, but before they could leave, Pandavs came there excited.

Kunti :- What happened putron ?

Arjun :- Mata, we also want to go with you.

Kunti :- But, where will you all go ?

Sahdev :- We know that you are going to meet Jeystha, so we will also join you, we too want to meet him.

Bhisma :- Putron, I already told you that he still dosen't knows about his true identity, we first need to talk to his froster parents.

Yudhisthir :- We can atleast see him, we won't say anything I promise, just take us with you.

Kunti sighed and then noded, they all set towards Adhirath's house.



Adhirath was anxiously pacing in front of his house, he wondered why Rajmata Kunti wanted to have a dinner at his home. Since his eldest son's return, unexpected things are happening one after the other. He was little relieved that Amrit had went for his practice, while Karn was out to return a repaired chariot to the customer. Both of his eldest sons were out of his control, Amrit stayed isolated all time while Karn only listened to his mother.

He was startled out of his thought by the sound of approaching chariots and horses. Two chariots and a few horses stopped in front of his house, he had already guessed that Kunti will not be coming alone but arrival of princes was surprising. He greeted them all and led them in, house wasen't big but it was just fine for them as they were used to, living in such condition.

Shivangi served them sweets as they sat down in the hall, Kunti looked around but no one else was seen.

Bhisma :- Adhirath, where is your son ?

Adhirath :- Vasu, he went to deliver a chariot which he had repaired and it's better if he roams out for a while.

Kunti :- Why ? I mean didn't he like to help you ?

Adhirath :- All he likes is to do whatever he wants, moreover he doesn't likes the rules of society, he even hates it. His anger bursts out the moment he sees something like that happening so it's better if he stays away.

Kunti noded with a little frown, she wanted to see her eldest son, seems like she'll have to wait till the competition. Pandavs felt displeased at the idea, Bhisma looked at Kunti and noded, she turned to Shivangi.

Kunti :- Putri, my sons have returned from gurukul yesterday only, will you show them around. I need to talk something important with your parents.

Shivangi noded and gestured them to follow, after boys went out, Adhirath called Radha from kitchen for the discussion to start.

Kunti told them the truth, about Karn's birth, abandoning, informing her husband, failure of searches, identifying him during chariot race, knowing that he is with Parsuram. Radha was moved to tears, but she knew truth is truth, no matter how hard to accept. She felt her heart breaking at the thought of leaving her son.

Adhirath too felt extremely sad, but his eyes had a glint, his son will be at the right place, and get all the love he deserves, from very before he had felt that Karn is not an ordinary child, now he felt relieved that his son will not have to fight everywhere for respect.

Radha finally calmed down as Adhirath consoled her, Kunti assured that Karn will meet her frequently and if he dosen't want to come, no one will force him. Pandavs returned with Shivangi after a while and saw everything normal, they sat down and Adhirath told them about Karn's childhood and mischiefs.

While they were talking, Amrit returned after completing his training, he was introduced to others, Bhisma was little skleptical, asur guru Shukracharya didn't accept anyone as his student this easily.

As they were about to begin with dinner, main door opened, everyone's head snapped towards the entrance as Karn entered. Kunti looked at the young man entering, her eyes beamed with joy as she recognised the glinting kundals, he turned and looked at the guests after closing the gates. She looked at him, top to bottom, he had an astratni body stature, charming face, mark of sun on forehead, perfectly carved muscles. His walking style resembled his father. Her heartbeat became stronger as he walked inside, a mother's heart can never be wrong, he was the lost son, eldest of her six gems, moisture began to accumulate in her eyes as Karn came in front of her.



Pandavs were astonished after seeing the man, Bhisma winked at them confirming that he is the elder brother.

Karn was confused as he saw royal guests, before he could say anything, Radha came and stood beside him.

Radha :- Rajmata, he is Vasusen, and Vasu, she is Rajmata Kunti, wife of late Maharaj Pandu.

Karn smiled and touched her feet, Kunti caressed his head as tear rolled down her eye. Karn felt motherly affection from her, he got up and looked at her, she caressed his cheek with a smile.

Kunti :- Yashasvi bhava putra.

Radha :- They are Pandavs, Yudhisthir, Bheem, Arjun, Nakul and Sahdev.

Karn joined his hands and greeted, but was confused at their excited faces. Everyone had their dinner laughing and talking, Kunti's heart was filled with happiness as she saw her sons speaking to eachother, although he didn't knew he was talking to his brothers, she could clearly see the similarities they had.

Soon it was over and all gathered outside as royal members were leaving. Bhisma told Adhirath to send Karn for participating in the competition.

Kunti was climbing the chariot but suddenly her feet slipped, but instead of falling down, she felt a pair of hands supporting her, she glanced aside to notice Karn holding her hand. He helped her climb up, he noded at her to which she smiled and caressed his hair.



Then something unexpected happened, all 5 brothers came and touched his feet, he was confused but raised his hand and blessed them. Shivangi stood aside Karn as the guests left.

Karn :- Good people are still alive, not everyone is that bad.

Shivangi :- Sure said.



Late night, Jhanvi was lying on her bed, unable to sleep, she sat up bored, Subhadra was sound asleep beside her. Discussion in today's rajya sabha was playing in her mind, she needed to relax. Just then she remembered Krishna's words, 'Sometimes it's good to quietly sneak out and explore the surroundings'.

Jhanvi :- Not a bad idea.

She got up, changed her clothes, covered her face with a scarf, took a small dagger and hid it, then made a long rope by tying the curtains. Hanging them from the window, she slipped down, then sneaked out from palace. Coming out into the streets, she saw nothing but silence, streets were empty, except a few people who were probably returning to their homes, thankfully she wore a black dress, so no one noticed her. Walking further, she felt the population outside increase, not everyone was asleep yet, on her way, she even saw some guards on round, construction work was going on at some places, 'not very interesting though', she thought. Unlike Dwarika, most of the localities here were engulfed in darkness, except two or three mashals that were on entrance. She changed the road and went other way, reaching a park, she decided to have a walk and entered. Cool breeze blew tickling her body, she opened the scarf and stretched her arms, feeling the pleasant whether and calmness of night. Chirping sound of crickets and some other insects could be heard, sky was filled with bright stars, grasses were soft and wet, like someone had watered them shortly. She kept walking, enjoying the beauty of nature, it wasen't long enough that she realised she had entered the forest area. Getting alarmed, she turned but all the ways looked identical, she changed her path and went other way, taking the dagger out and covering her face, she walked slowly to minimize the sound produced by her feets.

Sometime later, she noticed that it was the same place she crossed earlier, this made her realise that she was walking in a round. Suddenly she heard sound of footsteps coming closer, she ran foreward with full speed, dropping her dagger in the process, she stopped after a few minutes, feeling that sound was not following anymore and stumbled on a tree to catch breath.

'Who are you' a male voice spoke from behind. Her breathing stopped as she gulped, then decided a surprise run.

'Don't even think of it, that's a bad idea'.



She slowly turned around to notice a tall muscular figure standing there, holding a huge bow in his left hand. Although it was dark everywhere, but his figure was clearly visible, even from some distance, his complexion was fair, and dark curly locs fell on his shoulders, bulging muscles added to the beauty and a glowing mark of sun on forehead.



She was mesmerized by the beautiful brown eyes, she kept staring at him for a few moments before he spoke.

Karn :- I think I asked you a question, who are you ? What are you doing here at this time ?

She was hesistating to say, not knowing whether to trust him or not. He understood she was not a spy, probably lost her path and got panicked.

Karn :- I won't hurt you, so stop worrying and answer my question, maybe I can help.

Jhanvi :- I... was... just out for.... a walk and got lost. Can you help ? Just tell me the way to main road.

Karn :- (chuckles) out for a walk, that too in the forest, at this time, thank God I found you at the right time, you were going to step inside prohibited territory of bandits.

She got tensed and looked around.

Karn :- We're safe for now, just follow me, village is that way.

Had he been someone else, she would've refused but seeing those beautiful pair of eyes, she felt attracted and noded. He led the path as she followed, walking for a while, they came out of bushes and noticed the backside of houses. She sighed in relief at the scene and turned to him.

Jhanvi :- Thanks a lot, I can't even imagine what would've happened if you didn't came on time.

Karn :- Happy to help, can you tell me where is your home so we may walk further.

Jhanvi :- Won't you have go to your home, what were you doing here anyway.

Karn :- I came here to make sure there is no trespassing.

They started to walk towards the road, she looked at the beautiful bow in his hands.

Jhanvi :- Are you a soldier or a guard ?

Karn :- No. Why ?

Jhanvi :- Oh, I see that weapon in your hand, are you a teacher.

Karn :- No, I work at a chariot repair shop, I love archery so, I practice when no one's noticing.

Jhanvi :- Have you heard of the competition, the Kala Pradarshan. Will you participate ?

Karn :- I haven't thought anything, I mean.... I'm not a kshtriya or a brahmin. I don't know what will others say.

Jhanvi :- What will others say, you're a warrior and that's it, what else is required....

Karn looked at her as she spoke about various things, he noticed her bluish black eyes in the light of mashals, fair complexioned skin hidden safely within those black clothes. He looked away, wanting to slap his forehead for thinking like that.

They stopped near the road, and turned to face each other.

Jhanvi :- Thanks a lot once again, I don't think I'll ever be able to repay this debt of yours.

Karn :- Mention not, I am a warrior and it is my dharm to help, if you're uncomfortable, I can accompany you till your home.

Jhanvi :- No it's okay, I can go from here.

She turned to leave but he stopped her.

Karn :- Wait, you forgot something.

She turned and saw her dagger in his palm, he forwarded it towards her. She took it, her hand brushed against his as she picked it up, both felt currents in their body. Karn pulled his hands away, she turned to leave again but remembered something.

Jahnvi :- (turning around) What's your name by the way ?

Karn :- (smiles) You'll get to know on the day of competition.

Jhanvi's heartbeat started pounding as she looked at the charming smile, she felt like standing there and just staring at it non stop but that wasen't possible so she turned and started walking. After walking a few steps, she heard his voice again.

Karn :- You didn't told me your name.

She turned to him and smiled under her scarf.

Jhanvi :- See me on that day yourself.

Karn shook his head and smiled, then waved his hand in bye gesture and both of them walked away.



Did you like the chapter ?

Too long but worth the wait. Will both of them be able to recognise each other on next meeting.

Tighten your seatbelts as Kala Pradarshan is nearing. What will be Karn and Jhanvi's reaction after knowing each other's identity ?

One more thing, Do you guys want Karn to use Vijay dhanush. I can add it in further story, there won't be any editing, just a few interesting chapters will be added. (I have a plan). But only if you like. Majority wins.

Target :- 31 votes.

Do comment if you have any suggestions.