'I would've gladly accept what Prabhu thought would be best for me, but you had to interrupt everything. So go, I curse you both to turn into wolves and spend your life mourning for your deed'

As the cursed words left his mouth, Bramhan realised that time has stopped, everything has frozen on its position. The young couple, whose faces showed pure horror, dry leaves hanging still in mid air and the only thing which could move was his own body.

'Vatsya!'

A voice entered his eardrums and he looked around, searching for its source.

Bramhan :- P.... Prabhu ?

'It's surprising, everyone knows me but no-one recognises me. I live among all of you, I see you everyday, yet you think you can reach me only by means of strong penance. But the truth is, all you need is to realise, that this entire universe, all the beings, living or non living are a part of me. I am not only your ultimate destination but also your origin'

Bramhan joined his hands, falling on his trembling knees feeling his eyes moisten with delight.

Bramhan :- I... I'm so fortunate that you decided to bless me with your presence. But.... I can't see you... Prabhu...

'Did you pass my test ?'

His head dropped low, as he considered his response.

Bramhan :- No Prabhu... I... thought I could... but unfortunately due to...

'How did you know whether you passed my test or not ? Did you knew what test I was gonna take ? or are there any fixed rules as to what test should I prefer ?'

Bramhan :- I... don't understand Prabhu...

'When you never knew what my test was, when you never knew how your presence of mind would be tested, when you never knew what's in my mind then how did you decide that you didn't pass my test'

Sinking deep in the pool of thoughts, trying to search for an appropriate answer, Bramhan scratched his head.

Bramhan :- Was.... those wolves trying to scare me was not your test ?

'When did I say that ? It was your mere assumption, which fueled your anger and escalated your senses to act in the way you did'

Bramhan :- So, what really was the test for me, Prabhu ?

'Now that is the right question. I am happy seeing your devotion for me, but, there's a little lack of sincerity in it. Instead of wanting me to recognise you as my true devotee, you were confident that I will acknowledge you as the same. That developed a sense of arrogance, and when you saw things not going as you hoped, your patience gave up. At the height of your emotions, you cursed someone for a presumed misdemeanor which you yourself wern't knowing about'

As if an extremely heavy weight was dropped on his shoulders, Bramhan stumbled behind and fell back.

Bramhan :- I... I failed you, Prabhu, I couldn't keep my arrogance in check, how could I be so ignorant ? But... is breaking a sage's penance justified ? How can they do this and still think of themselves as innocent ?

'Again, when did I say that they are innocent ? But the curse you bestowed upon them, is that justice, is that what a knowledgeable man like you would do, keeping in mind, the circumstances of the event ?'

Bramhan :- No Prabhu, I understand, there are consequences of every action, so we should always think before deciding to act. I am ashamed for dissapointing you with my selfishness.

'It's still not so late that you can't correct your mistake'

Bramhan :- I will do it, I will undo my mistake.

'How will you do that ?'

Bramhan :- I know that I can't take the curse back, but using all the merits I earned throughout my life, I will give them an alternate choice of punishment, and if they accept it, my curse won't take effect.

'And now..... you actually passed my test'

A blinding light flashed out of nowhere, so intense that Bramhan had to cover his closed eyes or he would've rendered blind.

Slowly adjusting to the brightness, when he managed to open his black orbs, a divine sight welcomed him.

Preserver of universe, Lord Vishnu stood tall with a warm smile and comforting aura.

Bramhan :- Prabhu.... Prabhu.... Prabhu....

He couldn't utter another word, as if his tongue was stuck in an endless chord, his senses evaporating away, filling his mind with peace, devoid of any anger, hatred or jealousy.

'After you complete your remaining task, heaven will receive you with open arms, your ancestors await your arrival. I'm pretty sure you won't disappoint them'

Bramhan :- As you say Prabhu.

Everything slowly restored to normal as Lord vanished the same way he appeared.

Karn sat perfectly still, as if the shock had punched the life out of him, his brain, running like a galloping horse, yet unable to digest the moment.



Pallavi glanced back and forth between her husband and the sage, who all of a sudden appeared calm. So many questions coming up altogether.

'Will they really turn into wolves ?

Why this sage appears calm all of a sudden, when just a moment ago he appeared fuming ?

If what he said really did happen, how will others recognise them ?

And how will they explain to others what happened here ?'

Bramhan :- Get up, son.

Snapped back to the world, Karn looked up at him and then fell at sage's feet.

Karn :- I... I sincerely apologise kaka, I didn't had the intension to break or cause any kind of distraction to your penance.

Sage made him stand up and touched his forehead, a quick divine vision of a destructive war played before his eyes.

Bramhan :- Apologies accepted, vatsya.

Karn and Pallavi, for a moment looked at him with surprise.

Pallavi :- Really!

Bramhan :- I accept that I've acted recklessly, tending only to my heightened emotions.

Karn :- I can understand, Bramhan dev, so many years, spent in penance, devoting all the time to please the Lord and finding it shattered at the very last moments.... it definitely hurts.

Sage :- But fortunately, it didn't, you're extremely lucky to have the blessings of Lord of Universe. Vatsya, I too learnt that not everything happens the way we want it to, and we should accept it the way it comes.

Karn :- But... when ? a moment ago you cursed us because we unknowingly became an obstruction to your penance.

Sage smiled and then shook his head.

Bramhan :- Some things cannot be explained, can only be felt. But the thing that conserns both of you is the curse, which I bestowed upon you.

Pallavi :- Please don't leave us like this, there must be some other way, I know we eventually did wrong but we didn't had the intention...

He stared at her before nodding his head.

Bramhan :- Obstructing a sage's penance, is one of the biggest sins anyone can commit. But as you said, you never had the intention. The thing is, I cannot take my curse back, but using all the merits I earned in my lifetime, I can provide you an alternative.

Karn :- What is it ?

Bramhan :- The alternative is, if you accept to give up all your kingly pleasures, and live in exile for next seven years, my curse won't take effect.

Karn and Pallavi looked at each other with hopeful smiles.

Pallavi :- We accept it, I don't have words to thank you...

Bramhan :- Let me complete my words.

He said, gesturing her to stop.

Bramhan :- I said it to you (pointing at Karn), only you will have to go in exile, only... you, not her.

Again, pin drop silence prevailed, after sage finished his words.

Karn :- I accept it, Bramhan dev, I will forsake my title as King of Indraprasth, and live in forests like a wanderer for next 7 years...

His sentence was interrupted by voice of his wife.

Pallavi :- But why Arya, it's not fair, I too am responsible for it as much as you, I won't allow you to suffer alone.

Karn :- Pallavi listen to me, it's the only way out, either me going in exile or we both turn into wolves.

She held onto his hands, trying to convey her desperation.

Pallavi :- How can I let you go alone, if you've decided to leave, then I too am accompanying you.

Karn sighed and stared at her worry filled face.

Karn :- First of all, calm down, and now please listen to what I want to say.

She nodded, taking deep breaths to relax.

Karn :- In my absence, someone has to be there to keep our family together, and who could take that place, better than you. And Draupadi, she will need your support, she is not in the condition to take a mental shock.

Pallavi :- All she will need is your presence, your brothers are sincere enough to understand the gravity of situation. Let me go instead, you can stay back and handle them. Is it possible, Bramhan dev ?

Sage just shook his head.

Bramhan :- Sadly, it is not. I did as I was told and all I could do, seems destiny too wants it to happen.

Pallavi :- But why...

Karn :- Pallavi, I'm your husband, don't I get to take decision on my part, atleast you can respect that.

Nodding reluctantly, Pallavi wiped her tears. Turning to face the sage, Karn joined his hands.

Karn :- I will do as you said, please bless my family to stay together and strong.

Bramhan :- You and your family have my blessings son, may your family remain as unbreakable as it is. And remember son, you have been chosen by destiny for a very important role in an event that will be remembered till the end of the time.

Karn :- What is it ?

Bramhan :- That I can't tell you, you will have to find it yourself. Your Destiny.

He smiled before vanishing away in the thin air. Having stood there for some more time, Karn looked at his visibly upset wife.

Karn :- We should head back before sun peeks over the horizon.

Pallavi glanced up at the twinkling stars.

Pallavi :- Why does it have to be us, all the time ?



Flashback :-

Draupadi sat across Devika, watching her friend go through portraits of suitors arriving for the swayamvar. She smiled as Devika picked the portraits one by one, explained their backgrounds and then made an 'I'm not so interested' look.

Draupadi :- So none of them catches your eye huh.

Devika :- No, I mean its not like their portfolios don't appeal, but it's also not like someone you'd pick out of a crowd. I mean they're good looking, valiant, kindhearted but.... what else ?

Draupadi :- Hmmm... that makes sense, but one thing doesn't fit in the situation. Why is bhrata Yudhisthir's potrait hiding under your pillow, wrapped up safely, like you don't wanna loose it ?

Saying so, she held up a potrait, wrapped carefully in a silk cloth, and passed it over to her friend, who looked dumbstruck, all of a sudden.

Devika :- But... How ?

Draupadi :- I think being friends we have some common habits. I just guessed it, never knew I'll turn out to be true.

Devika :- And how do you know it's his ?

Draupadi :- That was quiet easy, I don't see any other potrait missing.

Staring at her friend for a moment, Devika smiled.

Devika :- You sure have grown quiet intelligent, unlike the last time we met.

Draupadi :- Being a queen has its pros, but don't worry, I'll be there to teach you. But first can you please order some tea, so we can start with your story of how this all started.

Devika :- Is it really necessary ? I mean you know what's between us and that's what matters, right ?

Draupadi :- Well, no! Do I need to remind you how you used to tease me about my one sided love on Arya, now's your turn.

Devika :- Fine.

She clapped, calling in, a maid who came running and bowed.

Devika :- Tea and some snacks please.

Flashback Ends :-

Devika :- I'm happy she knows, not like she would've opposed it in the first place.

She said, taking a walk in the garden along with Yudhisthir.

Afternoon sun shining brightly above the palace, showering warm, comforting rays. Blue sky, mostly filled with random cloud patterns.

Yudhisthir :- Yeah.

She glanced at him, his eyes lowered as he watched his feet squeezing the soft grass beneath.

Devika :- What are you thinking about ?

Yudhisthir :- I um... nothing.

Devika :- Nervous about tommorow.

Yudhisthir :- Not really nervous, just uncertain. I don't know what's gonna happen tommorow, I don't know whether I'll be able to pass the test or not, but I'll certainly do my best. Whatever the rest may be.

Devika :- Just belive in yourself, everything will be fine.

Yudhisthir :- I hope so.



The day of swayamvar started off quiet pleasant. With a little more than usual rush and noise filled the palace.

Suitors started to arrive one by one and till all were present, it was already noon. Seated in the grand Raj sabha of Sivi royal palace, which was decorated beautifully for the special event.

Maharaj Chandrasen happily welcomed each of them, he didn't think such a number of bachelors would attend the swayamvar. All he could do at the moment was pray that his daughter would be married to the Mr Right for her.

Yudhisthir met Vikarn and Yuyutsu, who also happened to be there to participate, they touched his feet and he blessed them in return.

Yudhisthir :- Good seeing you here, how is everyone in Hastinapur.

Vikarn :- Mostly fine, though some recent incidents have created a tight atmosphere but, it'll settle with time.

Narrowing his eyes, Yudhisthir asked, confused.

Yudhisthir :- What recent incidents ? Jeysth didn't tell me anything, he said everything is alright.

Yuyutsu :- Whatever happened, neither can be asked, nor told, let's forget about it, and focus on where we are.

Yudhisthir :- But...

Trumpets and drums subdued his speech as Devika entered the hall, accompanied by Draupadi, with a bunch of maids following behind.

Basking in the natural glow, she looked as beautiful as ever. Tilting her head a little, she looked at him via corner of her eyes and smiled.

Yuyutsu, who followed her gaze, nudged his brother.

Yuyutsu :- Bhrata Vikarn, something's fishy.

Vikarn :- What ?

Yuyutsu :- (pointing to Yudhisthir) You'll see.

Greeting all the elders, she took her seat and Maharaj Chandrasen stood up.

Chandrasen :- To all, who might be wondering, what kind of test will be put up today, to decide who's gonna marry the princess. My daughter, Devika, will ask three questions, anyone who thinks he has the answer may take their chances, and the one who's response Devika thinks is best will win her hand. So, dear Daughter, you shall proceed.

She took a deep breath and got up, looking at the curious faces of visitors.

Devika :- My first question, who is an enlightened person, how do you recognise him ?

Murmurs started within the participants, all looking at each other's 'I have no idea' faces. Some did try to answer but couldn't convince the princess. Yudhisthir slowly rose up.

Yudhisthir :- May I answer your question princess.

He said making everyone chuckle.

Devika :- Why not ? Go ahead prince.

Yudhisthir :- Dukheshvanu Dvignamanah Sukheshvanu Vigata Spirhah. Vita-Raga-Bhaya-Krodhah Sthita Dhir Muni Uchyate i.e One whose mind remains undisturbed admist misery, who does not crave for pleasure and who is free from attachment, fear and anger. A person who is capable of using his wisdom in any situation in his way, is truly an enlightened person.

Pin drop silence loomed over the Raj sabha, all looking in wonder, at the person who just gave a surprising reply.

Devika smiled and nodded, acknowledging his answer.

Devika :- Well done prince, so my second question is for you now. Do you consider yourself a wise person.

Yudhisthir :- No.

Devika :- Why ? You seem intelligent and knowledgeable. Expert in law making, calm and sincere. Then also ?

Yudhisthir :- It's because I'm not the right person to decide whether I am enlightened or not. And if I do consider myself one, it will give rise to arrogance, which will slowly start to kill any other good that might be present in me otherwise, and I wouldn't want that to happen.

Another silence for some moments before others stood up, praising him for his reply. Devika walked upto him, holding a beautiful garland and put it around his neck, bringing smiles on faces of elders. Though not everyone seemed pleased but mostly everyone accepted princess's decision. But none dared to speak against it, knowing a dispute with Pandav family won't end well.

Marriage was fixed the same evening so as soon as the sun hid behind the western horizon, everyone gathered at the hall, with Bride and Groom sitting beside the priest chanting mantras.

Draupadi stood at a side, watching them recite pledges, reminiscing her own marriage, that special day when she and her husband took their marriage vows, promised to be there for each other, forever.

After the saptapadi, the newly wedded couple stood up to take blessings from elders. Just when they were about to touch Chandrasen's feet, they heard a messenger desperately requesting the guards to let him in.

Draupadi recognised him and waved the guards to set him free and he rushed to her, handing her a letter.

All watched curiously as she opened the letter to reveal a set of letters. Having finished reading, she took a deep breath a slowly rolled it back, looking at the expectant faces. Not knowing how to start, she felt the view before her eyes dissapearing as everything turned black.



'Enough is enough!!'

Bheem banged his fist angrily on the table, Maharaj Chitrangad flinched as he stood and walked upto him.

Bheem leaned on the table near the king who gulped.

Bheem :- Maharaj Chitrangad. There's no need to hold these meetings again and again if you don't want a peaceful resolution. We meet here every morning and the one thing I want to know is what's going on at the border between Anga and Manipur. Don't you dare test my patience.

Chitrangad :- I've already told you all there is to the thing. One day out of blue we started to get complaints of villagers going missing, we tried sending some soldiers to look after them but no one came back.

Bheem :- Then why is that I have not received any reports or information of people going missing or any other kind of record you have of the situation.

Chitrangad :- I.. uh.. we...

Bheem :- And why haven't you sent any reply back to complaints from Anga.

Chitrangad :- I'm only concerned about what's happening in my kingdom, I don't care what's going on there.

Bheem :- Yeah, this meeting is a very fine example of how you deal with your concern. I'm going to have a talk with my brother, and when I return, I want all the documents to be arraigned and my questions answered. If that doesn't happen, I won't have any choice but to go and inspect the situation myself.

He said, got up and left the room. Maharaj Chitrangad stood up, gritting his teeth in frustration.

Chitrangad :- What does he think of himself, I am the king here, how can he go on giving me orders like some goddamn servant!!!

Looking at one of his ministers, he shook his head.

Chitrangad :- And why does he think Manipur is going to attack Anga. We never threatened them or anything. And most importantly, of all the kingdoms out there in Aryavart, why will I choose Anga to attack, which is already suffering under its good for nothing king!!

Minister :- Maybe this too was done by princess Pristi.

Chitrangad :- Yeah, just like she's been spreading these rumours among our neighbouring kingdoms. I don't know what this woman is upto, but one thing is clear, she is sure to create a big conflict. But first collect all the documents, send our men for the investigation, I gotta go take some rest or my head's gonna explode.



Gripping the handle of sword with her right palm, Chitrangada moved around briskly, slicing the thin air, practising her moved.

Arjun leaned on a nearby tree, watching her keenly. She tried her best to ignore him but could not.

Chitrangada :- Why are you ogling at me ?

Arjun :- Not ogling, I'm just observing.

She scoffed at him.

Chitrangada :- Means the same.

Arjun :- Your stance, just observe your left foot, you've shifted most of your body weight on it. In these cases,

He placed his foot next to her's and gave it a slight shift, making her loose her balance, but before she could fall, he caught her arm, helping her stand up again.

Arjun :- Anyone can use this as advantage, I noticed this because I was observing, had I been ogling at you, all I would've noticed was your face.

Chitrangada :- Shouldn't you be at the meeting with Pitashree.

Arjun :- Same goes for you, why you aren't there ?

Chitrangad :- It won't make any difference.

Arjun :- So you're saying that you know nothing about the situation, about the mysteriously missing people, about the complaints from Anga, the constant war like atmosphere.



Chitrangada :- Even if I do know something, I don't think, it's of any use to you.

Arjun :- That is what you think, not me, maybe that information is useful in some way.

She sighed and put her sword down.

Chitrangada :- I... did some research on it, interrogated some villagers, heard many stories. But nothing conclusive could be found.

Arjun :- What were the stories ?

Chitrangada :- Some believed there lives a demon who devours anyone going there, which is fake undoubtedly. But one of them was strange.

Arjun :- Strange ?

Chitrangada :- It seemed to me though. A family which lived not a mile away from borders showed me some kind of a book. Well, the language was unrecognisable but they told me about a magical herb. Something which can be used to treat special wounds. But no one can get to it, unless he of special background, you know...

Arjun :- Why did you not inform us about it before ?

Chitrangada :- Like I said, I didn't think It'll be of any use.

Arjun :- What else do you know ?

Chitrangada :- Nothing, I didn't believe it, so I returned.

He just stared at her, fed up by her attitude.

Arjun :- Now I'm in doubt if you and your father are ruling here.

Chitrangada :- What do you mean...

Arjun :- People of your kingdom are dissapearing without any trace, law and order is buried deep in a grave, and you have no idea of ground situation ? Is this how you manage a responsible post ? Is this how you protect your people ? Is this how to rule a kingdom ?

Chitrangada :- It's none of your problem...

Arjun noticed a messenger from Indraprasth, who came there running and handed him a letter.

He looked at the messenger, raising his eyebrows in a gesture to ask what happened, but the messenger just bowed his head.

Opening the letter, as he read it's contents, he felt as if ground has been snatched underneath his feet. He prayed whatever's written here is false but the bowed head in front of him just dismissed the thought.

Taking deep breaths to calm his posture, he ran away to find his elder brother, with the messenger following him behind.

Chitrangada just stood there wondering what just happened now.



Karn stood at the end of the balcony, Vijay dhanush leaning by his side as he watched the glowing towns surrounding the palace under the dark sky. Street lamps, torch lights, campfires, etc lit up each and every road covering the path leading upto the palace, which had its own magnificent shine.

Monsoon winds were strong enough to indicate it'll start raining soon. He looked around, trying to gather his thoughts, it was hard, pretending as if nothing happened, that everything is alright. Though what he felt was neither of melancholy or depression. It was a strange emptiness engulfing his heart. It took every ounce of his willpower to not throw up and destroy everything nearby, but it did help, he could feel his energy subdued.

A tap on his arm broke his trance and he felt a womanly presence beside him. His gaze wandered over to his wife, whose expression seemed conflicted.

Standing next to her husband, Pallavi placed her hand over his'. Along with deep sadness, she could feel strange emotions making their way inside her head. She glanced at his face, which looked stoic, he most probably wouldn't want to share his feelings.

Hesitating a bit, she turned to face him.

Pallavi :- Arya.

Her voice sounded soft and comforting. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, then looked at her, with a faint smile.

Pallavi :- Why do you want to hide everything ? You haven't said even a word since we returned. I know you're hurting inside, I know you have a million words to say, then why hold it back. Take it out, talk to me, I understand you don't trust me enough, we got married just a....

She got cutoff when he simply pulled her in a hug, which surprised her even more. He held her close, resting his head on her shoulder.

Karn :- It's not that I don't trust you or I want to hide it but... even if I do have a million words to say I feel lost. What shall I say, what should I feel, how should I act. And if that's not enough, where should I be ?

She broke the hug and made him look at her again.

Pallavi :- Still, staying quiet is not the solution. Won't you miss your family, your brothers, your wife, your friend. What will you tell them when they return, what will it be here like in your absence. Don't these thoughts concern you ?

Karn :- You're right, they do. After having bonded with them, I never thought I'd have to spend so long away from them. It feels like I'm leaving a part of myself behind. But there's no going back now, whatever happened cannot be changed, so the bigger question that concerns me now is, what next ?

Pallavi :- What next!! You've already started planning for the exile. What about the present ?

He shook his head, trying to smile as he moved towards the swing and sat down, using his foot to give it a slight push.

Karn :- That's why I said I feel lost, my head is messed up, I'm just...

He sighed and looked away. She came and sat down beside him, taking his hand and entwining their fingers.

Pallavi :- Look at me Arya.

She said as her free hand cupped his cheek and turned his head.

Pallavi :- Just do it, you want to scream, cry, swear, scold, do anything but get it out. Holding it in will only make you more and more frustrated.

He stared at her expecting face, his wife, it's been only days since they got married, they barely got to know each other and yet, she is here, by his side, holding his hand, only thinking about him, wanting to make him feel better. It wouldn't be easier for her either but still, she is here.

A tiny drop of tear rolled down from his eye and fell onto their entwined hands.

Karn :- I'm... I'm afraid, dear. I always try to run, run away from every responsibility, every duty, every supposedly good thing that can happen in my life. I do realise that I can't keep running forever but even if I do not want to, these circumstances compel me to. What do I do ? I always end up dissapointing someone or the other, why is it like this ?

Pallavi :- No matter how hard you try, no matter how good you are, you can't please everyone, there will always be a person who would envy you or be dissapointed...

He got up abruptly, going to stand near the railings again.

Karn :- You don't understand. I can't go on like this, sometimes I think, what am I good at ? Except for fighting ? Hell, I can't even control my... anger. I'm not worthy for this throne, not at all.

Pallavi :- Why do you say that ?

She too got up and stood near him.

Karn :- I was only given this throne because I am the eldest among all the brothers, I always think, if that's the case, Duryodhan isn't wrong when he says that he deserves the throne of Hastinapur being the king's eldest son. I'm afraid what will I answer when someone will question me about my competence for this throne. I'm what will I answer my mother when she will ask me about how am I guiding my younger brothers. What will I answer my father, he sure would've expected better from me.

Pallavi :- What are going on blabbering ? That's why I said you to get it out, see what nonsense you've stored inside. No one is questioning whether you are competent or not, no one is questioning how you were made the king, you may not be the best but you're certainly better than many other kings out there. You are the reason for your mother's happiness, recall the moment when she saw you after so many years, recall the smile she would've had on her face when you first called her 'Mata'. And your father would feel proud on you if instead of dwelling with these stupid questions, you focussed on things which really mattered.

Karn :- And what are those ?

He turned to face her.

Pallavi :- No one will ask you how you became the King but what you did as a king, your people won't question why you are the king but what you give them. Being the eldest son your mother won't ask you what you're doing for your younger brothers but whether all of you are together and happy.

He shook his head and sighed.

Karn :- You're... right, every single word, I won't even argue, but... thoughts like this, don't just come and go like a wind, it takes time. I may sound like a stupid but it is true. (sighing) I don't wanna talk anymore.

She placed her hand on his shoulder, wanting to reassure him, but he cut her off.

Karn :- I feel good though, thanks to you. I'll eventually get over it.

He said, making her smile.



He slowly turned to her, staring her face, then looked away, hiding his smile.

Pallavi :- What ?

Karn :- You know, when we were returning from Koshal, and Madhav had to convince Mata about our marriage. She asked him why me, he said if we wern't meant to be together, he wouldn't have proposed it in the first place.

Pallavi :- I thought we got married for, you know, alliance between Indraprasth and...

Karn :- No.

Pallavi :- Hmm ?

Karn :- Never say that again. It won't make any difference, you are my wife, and I won't care about anything else.

Pallavi :- We good now ?

Karn :- Yeah, we good.

She turned and began to walk away, before walking out the door, she glanced at him, only to find him staring back at her, smiling while his arms folded.

Pallavi :- What ?

He just shook his head, giving her a smile that made her heart flutter, she closed the door behind not wanting to show her face going red.

Sahdev sighed as he put the report down and glanced at his brother, who seemed as confused as him.

Sahdev :- This report is also the same, I understand that 37 people have gone missing in the last month but... what else ? I can see too many loopholes in the investigation.

With a worried look, Pristi nodded at them.

Nakul :- To begin with, how did you ascertain the number of missing when there is no information on who they were, from which family did they belong, their age, etc.

Sahdev :- All this report tells us that they used to live in a tribe near the border, last settlement before the borders between kingdoms. If they're native to that place, they might be having some relatives on the other side of borders, maybe they come and go to meet each other often, but nothing can be concluded without information.

Nakul :- Moreover, why there hasn't been any interrogation of the 'reported' spys or soldiers that entered the borders to take a check on security measures.

Sahdev :- You wouldn't just let them walk away like nothing happened.

Pristi took a deep breath and looked at the brothers.

Pristi :- We...

She was cutoff when a maid came running and wishpered something in her ears.

Pristi :- What!! Where is he ?

Maid :- He passed out from the injury, so he was taken back to his chamber and doctors are patching him up.

Pristi :- Excuse me, I gotta go.

She said, then got up and left, making the twins look at each other.

Walking as fast as she could, she reached Vikram's chamber and pushed the door open and saw her brother lying unconsious on his bed with bandages around his arms, waist and neck. A maid was standing by his bed, fanning him.

She sighed and took a stool to sit next to him and took his hand in her's, waving the maid to leave them alone for a while.

Pristi :- Why do you do this Jeysth ? Why do you make me worried all the time ? I know things have been worse in the past but drinking yourself to death ain't the solution. She's dead brother, I know you loved her more than life but she's not gonna come back, you have to move on. Why can't you give me my Jeysth back, the one who cared for others, one who was good, a hero, why are you being like this ? It really hurts to see you suffering like this, to see you getting despised by almost everyone, to see you getting yourself wasted like you don't care, to see you loosing hope in yourself with every passing day. I want to see you happy again, to see you move on and start a new family, to see the smile back on your face when you sit on your throne and take the responsibility back. You know I can't do it. I'm weak and tired, barely managing to hold the kingdom from falling apart. Please don't give me any more pain, I can't take it Jeysth, please.

She began to sob quietly, putting her head on his hand. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door.

She quickly wiped her tears and looked back.

Pristi :- Yes!

A guard stepped in and bowed.

Guard :- Princess, prince Sahdev wants to talk to you and asks if he can enter, he said he's a doctor himself.

Though skeptical, she nodded.

Pristi :- Let him in.

He bowed and stepped out as Sahdev walked in and looked at her, then his gaze fell upon the sleeping figure of king of Anga, with his upper body covered in bandages.

Sahdev :- How is he ?

He said coming towards her.

Pristi :- Not good, can't say anything untill he wakes up.

He checked the king's pulse, felt the forehead, neck and wounds.

Sahdev :- It'll take good amount of time to heal, plus some of them might leave scars.

Pristi :- I guess so, yeah.

Sahdev :- How did it happen ? If you don't mind me asking.

Pristi :- He fell into a garbage dump, drunk.

Sahdev :- What's the deal with him ? Was he always like this ? Careless and drinking... or something happened ? No one drinks that much, except for when you're an addict or... a past you wanna forget.

She sighed and gestured towards the chairs resting on the other side of room, once they settled, she began their tale.

Pristi :- He wasn't like this before, I mean before he started drinking, that was probably years ago. Those were the golden times for Anga Pradesh. My father, Sahasrajit Rao were a noble king. A fierce warrior and an adept strategist, he was always proud of his elder child, his son, yuvraj Vikram.

She said glancing at her brother.

Pristi :- Yuvraj Vikram too was a dreaded fighter, a Maharathi, expert at fighting with a spear. He was married to princess of Mandaka kingdom, Meenakshi, the love of his life. But whether good times or bad, they come to end someday. Bhrata Vikram's conquests gave birth to many enemies. One day yuvraj along with his parents were out to visit the villages at the borders to meet the people and distribute necessities. On their way back, they were attacked by unidentified assassins, who were successful in taking the life of king and queen. Bhrata Vikram barely managed to escape but he started blaming himself for their death. At that time, his wife was pregnant with thier first child, doctors had already predicted that it was a dangerous pregnancy due to her illness but she still insisted. During the delivery, she gave birth to an already dead baby, and she too, died of blood loss. This was the last straw for him and he started drinking due to depression, he continued to blame himself for everything that happened. Soon it reached a point where he lost all the hopes and drinks were his only friends. I had to take up the responsibility of his throne. Since then, he's like this, hopeless... careless... emotionless.... but he's still my elder brother. I can't desert him like that, I promised my father that I'll take care of him.

Getting up, she walked towards a window.

Pristi :- Anga Pradesh was once a very prestigious kindom, famous throughout Aryavart, now I'm not sure if someone even wants to talk about us. Bhrata's actions, specially when he's drunk has made it even more worse, all I pray for him to be back, how he used to be once, a good king, a feared warrior, a caring brother.

Sahdev :- In some cases like this, I've heard, they need a shock to rise out of their sleeping consience.

Pristi :- What ?

Sahdev :- I didn't mean the real 'shock' but something which they hadn't expected or anticipated, which shakes them out of their trance and bring them on track again.

Pristi :- But, what can be done which might seem like a shock to him.

Sahdev :- Tha...

There was again a knock on the door.

Pristi :- Yes!

The guard stepped in and bowed again before speaking.

Guard :- Princess, prince Nakul is asking for his younger brother, he says it's urgent.

Sahdev :- Sure.

He said and turned to go but Pristi stopped him.

Pristi :- Prince Sahdev.

He looked at her and smiled.

Sahdev :- You can call me by my name, no need for all these formalities.

Pristi :- Thank, you know, it feels good to share it with someone.



Sahdev :- Happy to help, we'll take this conversation ahead next time.

Pristi :- I'll be waiting for it.

She smiled at him, which he returned before walking out, closing the door behind him.



"Maharaj Narkasur ki jay"

Courtiers hailed as Narkasur walked towards his throne amid shower of flowers all along his path.

He sat down on his glorious throne of Pragjyotisha kingdom and eyed his ministers and army generals, who were filled with confidence and courage on his return.

Narkasur :- All these years, I spent in penance, I missed all the pleasures of life. I want to enjoy them now, all together and never ending.

He then looked at his commander in chief.

Narkasur :- How many maidens do we have in our kingdom.

After a few lines with other ministers, he bowed before the king.

Senapati :- Maharaj, around 16,000. How many should be bring back to you for your pleasure.

Narkasur :- 1, 10 or 100 won't satisfy me, bring me all of them, and from all of them, I mean not a single maiden should be left roaming free.

He said making others look at him in shock, to which he just smirked. He then closed his eyes and laid back, a sudden thought entered his brain and he abruptly stood up.

Narkasur :- Do we have any 4 tusked elephants ?

Senapati :- No Maharaj.

Narkasur :- Then get our army ready, we have a task at hand.

He said and looked up at the ceiling of the Raj sabha, but his gaze was noticed by someone else.

Narkasur :- I am coming... Indra... beware.

A terrifying laughter echoed throughout the hall.



Future Glimpse :-

They stood near the lifeless bodies, glancing at each other.

Jhanvi :- I can't get inside my own body, what's this happening ?

Pallavi :- And why ?

Vrushali :- Ain't there any other way ?

Draupadi stared at Suchitra, who desperately searched her book for a solution and after a while, threw it away in frustration. She sighed and crossed her arms.

Draupadi :- So there's no way back, then.

Suchitra :- I told you there can be side-effects of the spell, but you all didn't listen.

Draupadi :- So it's my fault now, seemed pretty obvious you couldn't handle the spell all by yourself.

Suchitra :- I was trying, you didn't even give me enough time...

Bhanumati :- There's no point arguing now, we should think of a way out of it.

Suchitra :- Then choose among the six of us who's identity you wanna take.

Bhanumati :- What ?

Suchitra :- We all get to choose only one body which can be returned to life, among six of us.

Jhanvi :- That... that means...

Pallavi :- What will happen to the rest ?

Suchitra :- They'll vanish, like they never really existed.



Nakul held his brother's hand as soon as he saw him and began to drag him away.

Sahdev :- What's the matter bhrata Nakul ? Where are we going ?

Nakul :- We're going back, it's an emergency.

Sahdev :- What ?

Nakul :- Jeysth, he's been exiled.

The words made Sahdev stop in his tracks.

Sahdev :- Jeysth.... exiled... why..

Nakul :- I'll explain to you on the way, now come on, we're leaving immediately.

He said and both of them went to gather all their stuff before heading to get their horses.



Did you like the chapter ?

Meeting after a long time no ? Well, I'm back now, so we'll continue the journey again.

From now on, the chapters are really really long, so I will be publishing it in parts, and at the end, I will compile them together to one chapter before moving on to the other on.

Will that be fine ?

So Vikram wasn't reall evil from beginning, some circumstances pushed him towards the wrong tracks. It does happen, many times.

What about others ? Do they have similar past ? And if everyone falls in the similar category, what makes us differentiate between good and bad ?

How is the glimpse from future ? Any ideas, where was it from ?

And one request, can you please help me decide a name for Duryodhan and Sumali's child ?

What would you prefer ? A girl or a boy ? A demon or a human ?

Do comment your suggestions ?

What do think would be others' reactions when they will get to know what happened ?

I guess Devika and Yudhisthir are about to get a shock.

What's really going on at the borders between kingdoms.

Will see you in the next part, until then, take care and bye.