A few days had passed since the devastating explosion of energy that had erupted from within Karn. The forest that had been reduced to ash and ruin was beginning to show signs of life again, the charred remains slowly giving way to new growth as nature began its healing process.



The air was fragrant with the scent of fresh rain and earth, the forest's quiet resilience providing a soothing balm to his troubled soul. Despite the tranquility around him, Karn's mind was a storm of thoughts and emotions. The weight of what he had done pressed heavily upon him, a constant reminder of his uncontrolled power and the destruction it had wrought.

He had been wandering through the forest, his path guided by nothing more than the movement of his weary feet. Sleep had eluded him, and exhaustion weighed heavily on his body, but the tumult of thoughts that crowded his mind kept him from resting. The memory of the destruction he had caused haunted him, a reminder of the immense power he held and the responsibility that came with it.

Occasionally, a pigeon would flutter down from the canopy, a curious letter tied to its leg. It was the same bird that had brought him letters from an unknown correspondent-someone who seemed to know much about Karn's journey and offered cryptic but thoughtful advice. Despite his confusion and despair, Karn found solace in these exchanges, the letters were a welcome distraction, and he found himself responding to them, the exchange providing a semblance of connection in his solitary journey.

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One afternoon, as the sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm glow through the canopy, Karn trudged through a particularly dense part of the forest, his wanderings brought him to a clearing where an ancient banyan tree stood sentinel. He heard a voice calling out to him. He stopped and looked around, his eyes eventually falling on a sage resting under a large, ancient tree. The sage's robes were simple, but his presence exuded an aura of wisdom and tranquility. His hair was a cascade of silver, and his eyes, though aged, shone with a sharp, knowing light.

Sage :- King Karn.

He called, his voice gentle yet commanding.

Sage :- Come, sit with me a while.

Karn hesitated, the weight of his recent experiences making him wary, but there was something about the sage that drew him in. He approached and sat himself to the ground opposite the old man, the cool shade of the tree providing a momentary respite from his internal turmoil.

Sage :- I have been waiting for you.

He said, a faint smile playing on his lips.

Karn was taken by surprise.

Karn :- Waiting for me ? How did you know I would come this way ?

The sage chuckled softly.

Sage :- The paths of destiny are woven with threads unseen. My name is Vedvyas, and I have known for some time that we would meet here.

Karn nodded, his curiosity piqued by the sage's words.

Karn :- I do not know where I am going, I have been wandering without direction, trying to make sense of the chaos within me.

He admitted and Vedvyas nodded, his expression thoughtful.

Vedvyas :- You carry a great burden, Karn, one that few can understand. But know this: even in the midst of confusion, there is purpose to be found.

The sage's words resonated with Karn, though he was still uncertain of their meaning.

Karn :- Do you know where I should go ? I feel lost, as if I am walking in circles.

Vedvyas smiled kindly.

Vedvyas :- I do know of a place that may bring you peace and guidance. If you are willing, I will lead you there.

Karn considered the offer. He had no particular destination in mind and felt drawn to the sage's calm assurance. His instincts telling him that Vedvyas was more than he appeared. Something about the old man's presence was comforting, a sense of wisdom and peace that Karn found himself drawn to.

Karn :- Very well, gurudev. I will follow you.

With a nod, Vedvyas rose to his feet, his movements belying his age, and together they set off through the forest. The sage walked with a quiet confidence, his steps sure and steady, as if he knew every tree and path by heart. Karn followed, his mind still a whirl of emotions but feeling a glimmer of hope that had been absent for days.

As they traveled, the environment around them gradually transformed. The forest, though still scarred by the recent destruction, was beginning to show signs of rebirth. New shoots sprouted from the ground, vibrant green against the blackened earth. The air was filled with the gentle hum of insects and the soft rustle of leaves, the forest gradually coming back to life.

The soothing atmosphere began to ease some of Karn's tension. The presence of Vedvyas, with his serene demeanor, was a balm to Karn's troubled mind. As they walked, Vedvyas shared stories and teachings, his words woven with wisdom and insight that spoke to the core of Karn's being.

Vedvyas :- Every being, every tree, every stone has its place in the grand tapestry of existence. Even when we feel lost, we are part of a greater whole, a path that will reveal itself in time.

He said as they walked, Karn listened intently, feeling the truth of the sage's words. He began to realize that his journey, though fraught with pain and uncertainty, was not without purpose. The power within him, though terrifying in its potential, was also a gift-one that could be harnessed for good if he could learn to control it.

As they continued their journey, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The forest, rejuvenated by the rain and time, seemed to shimmer in the fading light, a testament to the resilience of life.

Eventually, the landscape opened up into a small clearing.



The clearing held a handful of simple huts, each with thatched roofs and walls woven from sturdy bamboo. Smoke curled lazily from a few chimneys, filling the air with the comforting scent of wood fire and cooking food. The small settlement was peaceful, an oasis of calm that stood in stark contrast to the turmoil that had consumed Karn's heart for so long. Setting sun bathed the scene in a warm, golden light, casting long shadows that danced gently across the ground.

Karn's heart skipped a beat as his eyes fell upon one particular hut. On the front porch, his first wife, Suchitra, sat quietly picking rice, her movements graceful and familiar. Her hair was pulled back in a loose braid, her serene expression, a picture of contentment, warmed Karn's heart, and he paused to take in the sight.

Beside her on a cot lay a small child, a boy no more than a year old, his features unmistakably Karn's. The child, Shatrunjay, was engrossed in the simple joy of playing with a wooden toy, his wobby hands grasping it with a gurgle of delight. Karn felt a swell of emotions, a mixture of love, regret, and longing, threatening to overwhelm him.

For a moment, Karn stood still, his breath caught in his throat as he took in the sight of his family. The months of separation seemed to melt away, replaced by a profound longing and a surge of emotions he had buried deep within himself. His feet carried him forward, his eyes locked onto Suchitra as if to reassure himself that she was real and not just a figment of his imagination.

Vedvyas, sensing the significance of the moment, remained at the edge of the clearing, watching silently with a serene smile as Karn approached the hut.

Karn :- Suchitra!

He called out, his voice tinged with a mix of hope and disbelief.

Suchitra looked up, her eyes widening in surprise as they met Karn's. For a heartbeat, time seemed to stand still, as if unsure whether the figure before her was real or a figment of her imagination, the air between them charged with a thousand unspoken words and emotions.

Suchitra :- Arya ?

She whispered, disbelief lacing her voice. Then, recognition dawned, and her eyes filled with tears of joy and relief.

With a sudden burst of joy, she dropped the rice bowl and rose to her feet, running towards him. Karn opened his arms, and she fell into them, their bodies colliding with the force of their shared yearning. He enveloped her in a fierce embrace, feeling the warmth and reality of her presence. Suchitra clung to him, her tears soaking into his shoulder, and he held her tightly, afraid to let go.

They stood together, the world around them fading away, their hearts communicating all the words that remained unspoken. The golden light of the setting sun enveloped them, casting an ethereal glow over their reunion and illuminating the love that had endured the test of time and distance.

When they finally broke the embrace, Karn looked into Suchitra's eyes, seeing the depth of her love and the strength she had carried in his absence. He gently wiped away her tears, his own eyes misting with emotion.

Karn :- I've missed you, every day, every moment.

He murmured, his voice choked with emotion. Suchitra pulled back slightly to look up at him, her eyes searching his face, taking in the changes. His once lean frame was now more muscular, his features more mature, etched with the trials he had endured. Despite the changes, he was still the man she loved.

Suchitra :- You've changed, but you're still you.

She said softly, a hint of wonder in her voice. Karn smiled, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face.

Karn :- And you're still as beautiful as ever.

He replied, his heart swelling with love and relief.

Their reunion was a moment suspended in time, the golden glow of the setting sun casting a radiant halo around them. The clearing seemed to bloom with life, the air rich with the scent of earth and flowers, the forest offering its own quiet blessing to their reunion.

They spent the next few moments in the embrace, reveling in the simple joy of being reunited, the hardships of the past forgotten for a brief, precious time. Vedvyas, observing from a distance, felt a deep sense of satisfaction. The journey had brought Karn to a place where healing and love could begin anew.

Karn turned back toward Vedvyas to express his gratitude, but the sage was nowhere to be seen. It was as though he had vanished into the forest, leaving only a whisper of presence in the air. He felt a pang of loss but knew that Vedvyas had guided him to where he needed to be. The sage's disappearance felt intentional, as if he had fulfilled his purpose and left Karn to embrace this reunion with his family fully.

Suchitra, sensing Karn's momentary distraction, felt a gentle tug on her saree. She glanced down to see Shatrunjay, half-hidden behind her, peeking shyly at Karn. His little hands clung tightly to her leg, his big eyes filled with curiosity and a hint of apprehension.

She laughed softly, a sound filled with affection, and scooped Shatrunjay into her arms. The child wrapped his small arms around her neck, burying his face into her shoulder, still sneaking glances at Karn.

Suchitra :- Shatrunjay, look! This is your father.

She said softly, turning so the boy could see Karn.

At her words, the baby slowly turned his head, his wide eyes meeting Karn's gaze. Karn smiled at him, a gentle expression filled with warmth and love. He reached out and softly caressed Shatrunjay's head, feeling the softness of his hair beneath his fingers.

Karn :- Shatrunjay.

He said, his voice tender.

Karn :- I'm so happy to finally meet you.

Suchitra carefully handed Shatrunjay to Karn. The boy hesitated for a moment, his small hands gripping his mother's saree, but he didn't cry. Karn held him close, marveling at the tiny life in his arms. He kissed Shatrunjay's forehead, overwhelmed by a wave of love and protectiveness.

With a sense of peace enveloping them, Suchitra helped Karn carry his belongings inside the hut. The interior was simple but warm, filled with the scent of spices and the comforting atmosphere of a home built with love and care. A cot sat against one wall, covered with a woven blanket, and a few shelves held everyday essentials.

Once inside, Suchitra offered Karn a small plate of sweets, their sugary aroma tempting his senses. He took a piece, savoring the taste that was reminiscent of home and the love he had missed. As he ate, Shatrunjay wriggled from his lap and toddled over to his toys, his earlier shyness forgotten in the familiarity of play.

Karn watched his son with a smile, his heart swelling with pride and happiness. Suchitra settled beside him on the cot, resting her head on his shoulder. Together, they watched Shatrunjay, who was now engrossed in his toys, his laughter ringing out like the sweetest melody.

For a while, they simply enjoyed the peace of the moment, the air filled with the soft sounds of Shatrunjay's laughter and the gentle rustle of leaves outside.

Karn :- I've missed this. I've missed you both more than words can say.

He admitted, wrapping an arm around Suchitra and pulling her close.

Suchitra sighed, her breath warm against his skin.

Suchitra :- We've missed you too. Every day, I hoped you would return. And now you're here. It feels like a dream.

Karn nodded, understanding the longing and the relief of finally being reunited.

Karn :- I'm sorry for the time we've lost, but I'm here now. I want to make up for it.

Outside, the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows that stretched across the clearing. The sky was a canvas of soft oranges and purples, the day slowly giving way to the embrace of night. The air was cool and fragrant, a gentle breeze whispering through the open window, bringing with it the soothing sounds of the forest.

They sat together, sharing stories of their lives apart. Suchitra spoke of the small joys and challenges of raising Shatrunjay, the moments that brought laughter and tears. She described the first time their son had walked, the mischief he got into, and the way his smile could brighten even the darkest day.

Karn listened intently, absorbing every detail, cherishing the connection that words could rebuild. He shared tales of his journey, the battles fought both within and without, and the lessons learned along the way. He spoke of Vedvyas and the unexpected wisdom he had encountered, the struggles with the power he held, and the resolve to master it.

Suchitra listened with quiet strength, her hand resting on his knee, her presence a grounding force. She understood the burdens he carried and the courage it took to confront them. Her unwavering support was a balm to his spirit, a reminder that he was not alone in his journey.

As they talked, the sky outside deepened from gold to a dusky purple, the stars beginning to peek through the veil of night. The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the world with the soft hues of twilight. Inside the hut, the warmth of their love filled the space, a quiet sanctuary from the world outside.

Karn :- I want to be the father Shatrunjay deserves. I want to be here for him, to teach him and protect him.

He said softly, his voice filled with determination. Suchitra lifted her head to meet his gaze, her eyes shining with understanding and love.

Suchitra :- You already are. Just by being here, you're giving him the gift of knowing his father.

Karn leaned down, pressing a kiss to her forehead, grateful for her steadfast heart and the strength they shared.

Karn :- Thank you, Suchitra. For everything.

As night fell, they prepared for sleep, the day's emotions settling into a comfortable stillness. Shatrunjay, tired from his play, curled up between them, his small body nestled in the safety of his parents' embrace.

Lying there, Karn felt a deep contentment, a sense of belonging that he had longed for. The path ahead was uncertain, but he knew that with Suchitra by his side, he could face whatever challenges awaited him. Together, they would build a future for their family, a legacy of love and resilience.

The forest hummed with the gentle sounds of night, the world at peace. Within the hut, Karn drifted into sleep, his heart full of gratitude and hope, cradled by the love that surrounded him.



A Glimpse =>

Suchitra :- Then, what do you think about it.

She asked, sensing the conversation to be going in the right direction.

Karn :- I don't know... it just feels different, not like the way things used to be. I'm not complaining but... you feel different.

He admitted, looking in her eyes, she simply looking at him, her lips curling in a curious smile.

Suchitra :- Different ? How ?

She inquired, Karn averted his gaze to look at the sun going down the horizon.

Karn :- It's like... when I'm with you... I feel like I'm somewhere else than the place I find myself to be in. I know it's strange and kinda stupid, but it feels everything is like... an illusion.

Suchitra smiled and snapped her fingers, suddenly the surroundings changed, Karn who was sitting under the Banyan tree found himself inside a palace, the huts, the forest, everything was gone and they were inside a beautiful and lavish palace that stretched everywhere he could see.

Karn :- What is this place ?....



Did you like the part ?

So Karn finally got to reunite with Suchitra, the moment everyone waited for so long.

And with this, the saga of previous birth would begin, the tale of enmity between Karn and Amrit or should I say Bharat and Rahoo.

The mysteries surrounding Suchitra are deepening with time, who is she really ? Can anyone guess ?

Do comment if you have any suggestions.

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