"So you are Mandavi?"

Karn inquired, his eyes narrowing slightly in curiosity as he absorbed the weight of Suchitra's tale. They sat together beneath the ancient Banyan tree, its sprawling branches casting intricate shadows across their faces in the light of the moon. The night was deep, enveloping them in an intimate cocoon while the distant sounds of crickets provided a gentle symphony all around. Above them, the stars glittered like scattered diamonds against the velvet sky, reflecting the timeless nature of the story Suchitra had just shared.

Suchitra paused, contemplating Karn's question as the cool breeze brushed past them, rustling through the leaves above. Her thoughts drifted, searching for the right words to articulate the complexity of her identity, the essence of the sacred narrative that had been woven through time.

With a deep breath, she answered, choosing her words with the care of a storyteller who understands the gravity of her revelation.

Suchitra :- Not exactly me...

She murmured, her voice a delicate whisper that seemed to dance with the night air, as fragile as the moment itself. Karn's curiosity was piqued further, a spark of intrigue lighting up his features as he leaned in slightly, eager for clarification.

Karn :- What do you mean?

He pressed, his voice a gentle but insistent probe in the stillness that surrounded them. Suchitra sighed softly, reaching out to place her hand over Karn's, the warmth of her touch speaking volumes as she sought to convey both reassurance and understanding. She leaned closer, her presence an embodiment of the tales she had shared, and continued,

Suchitra :- I mean to say that I am a part of Mandavi, an incarnation of her, along with her other forms. So, I'm not entirely Mandavi, just a part of her.

Her eyes met his, the depth of her explanation clear in their shared gaze.

Suchitra :- In this life, I carry a fragment of her spirit, her essence, just as her other incarnations. Each of us adds to the story, to the legacy, living out different facets of who she was.

Suchitra's words resonated, mingling with the sounds of the night, creating a tapestry of old wisdom and new understanding that enveloped them both. Karn nodded slowly, the pieces beginning to align in his mind as he considered the significance of Suchitra's tale and her place within it.

Karn :- But... I'm still confused. You say you are not Mandavi, only a part of her. How is this possible? One soul in so many persons... and if, let's say, that is true, who are the other incarnations of Mandavi?

He paused for a moment, his face etched with a mix of disbelief and intrigue. The entire concept seemed so alien and yet, somehow, it resonated with a part of him that he couldn't quite place. He ran his fingers through his hair, seeking some semblance of clarity in the confusion that engulfed his mind. The notion of a soul existing simultaneously in different beings was not something he had ever considered.

Suchitra observed Karn's struggle with patience, well aware that what she had shared was a revelation of significant magnitude—one that could not be easily comprehended or accepted. She recalled her own reaction when she first learned of her true essence, the disbelief that had held her in its grip for days. It was an understanding that transcended ordinary experiences, a truth so profound that words often faltered in its explanation. Yet, she knew that with time, Karn might come to see the beauty and complexity in the interconnectedness of souls.

Suchitra :- Whether or not this is possible is another topic. But it is true that I am one of the incarnations of Mandavi, a part of her. In our world, where the spiritual and the temporal often intertwine, such phenomena are not as rare as they might seem.

She paused, offering him a gentle smile, hoping to ease the burden of his thoughts.

Karn was visibly puzzled, his mind awash with possibilities and a sense of unease. He glanced at Suchitra, seeking clarity but finding only deeper mysteries reflected in her eyes. Her cryptic words hung in the air, laden with a weight he could barely comprehend.

Karn :- Then who are other incarnations of Mandavi?

His voice wavered slightly, betraying his uncertainty. Suchitra exhaled, shaking her head gently, a resigned smile playing on her lips.

Suchitra :- I don't know... maybe the ones you're married to, or would be, in the future. But you will find them when the right time comes.

Her tone was soft, almost wistful, as if she was speaking of a destiny not just his, but theirs—a path woven from threads of fate they could not yet see. She searched his eyes, seeking to gauge his reaction.

Suchitra :- Whom others are you married to? Do you know their qualities?

Her curiosity was palpable, though she worked to keep her questions light, as if they were merely musing over a story rather than trying to piece together the puzzle of multiple lifetimes. Karn fell silent, introspective, his mind a carousel of memories and potential futures.

He thought deeply, his mind sifting through the tangled web of past encounters and imagined possibilities, his lips pressed into a line of contemplation.

Karn :- A scholar who is the daughter of fire, a born queen; an artist who is really good at observation.

He finally responded, each word measured as if he were crafting a delicate tapestry with his voice. These were not individuals he had seen with his physical eyes, but spirits he felt intertwined with his soul, each one characterized by unique attributes and strengths that resonated with him on a profound level.

Karn, feeling an overwhelming mix of confusion and frustration, persisted in his inquiry.

Karn :- How many would be there exactly?

He asked, his voice tinged with an urgency to understand. He was trying his best to put the pieces of this perplexing mystery together, yet each piece seemed to scatter further from his grasp with every new detail. Suchitra paused for a moment, contemplating the complex web of events and emotions he was entangled in.

Suchitra :- Well... that depends on the number of times Bharat's voice had reverberated before Mandavi accepted his wish to be there for him.

She replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty. She knew her answer might not be entirely satisfying for him, but it was the closest she could come to providing clarity in this tangled narrative. He shook his head, still unsatisfied.

Karn :- All this, still doesn't sit well with me.

He admitted aloud, his mind racing with thoughts that refused to align.

Karn :- This tale... what's it supposed to do? Even if I am the incarnation of Bharat, I don't feel anything... It's okay that whatever happened to him... shouldn't have happened, but... I don't feel anything for it. Is it normal?

His voice rose with each question until it was almost pleading.

Karn :- If it is, then what's its purpose?

He threw this barrage of questions at Suchitra, his eyes searching hers for some hidden truth, some answer that might finally click things into place. His relentless curiosity and desperation for understanding made her pause for a few moments longer. She took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts, trying to formulate an answer that could adequately address the whirlpool of confusion and skepticism swirling within him.

Suchitra gazed at Karn with a mixture of warmth and solemnity, her voice gentle yet firm as she spoke,

Suchitra :- It's okay to feel that way. In this life, you're not just an ordinary soul, drifting along without a purpose. No, you are Karn, the noble son of queen Kunti and king Pandu. Your lineage is one of honor and great responsibility. This tale, sacred and ancient, I shared with you so that you may uncover your destiny and understand that you have a crucial role to play in a great event destined in the future. Amongst all the great and noble souls, you have been chosen to tread this path, and with that comes the responsibility to rise to the occasion and fulfill your destiny with grace and courage.

She paused, allowing her words to sink in, hoping to see a flicker of understanding in Karn's eyes. It was a story drenched in history and meaning, one that had taken root in her own soul and which she fervently hoped would do the same for him.

The sky above them began to change, catching the faint hint of a bluish hue as the first strokes of dawn slowly approached. The night, with its chorus of chirping insects, began to surrender to the quiet majesty of morning, and the stars, once bright and steadfast, started to dim into the sapphire firmament.

Karn, feeling the weight and significance of Suchitra's narrative slowly pierce through the haze of his own doubts, finally found his voice.

Karn :- So, what is this event supposed to happen?

He inquired, his curiosity piqued, yet tinged with a newfound sense of introspection and resolve. The tale, with its rich tapestry of fate and purpose, was beginning to weave itself into the fabric of his understanding. Suchitra met his gaze, a knowing smile on her lips.

Suchitra :- That, only time can tell. For now, embrace your identity, prepare yourself, and trust that you are where you need to be.

Her words carried the wisdom of someone who had long come to terms with the mysteries of destiny.

Karn :- What about this mystery power or energy of mine? Do you know something more about it?

His voice brimmed with hope and anticipation, almost like he was reaching out for answers that had eluded him for so long. Suchitra, with a gentle hum of acknowledgment, nodded in affirmation. Suchitra began to explain,

Suchitra :- This power or energy was a divine gift to you from your celestial father, Suryadev. Wanting to ensure you were never left defenseless or weakened during your most vulnerable moments, he bestowed upon you an unbreakable armor and these golden earrings. These divine gifts protect you, enveloping you with a strength that nobody can penetrate. Perhaps this is also the reason why you were named Karn, a name that befits someone with such formidable strength and resilience.

Karn listened intently, as if each word she spoke was unlocking memories and truths buried deep within him. He began to recall vividly all those intense moments when the energy within him surged, bursting forth with an immense force that had caused chaos and destruction all around. He replayed those moments in his mind, recognizing a common theme—the energy seemed to emerge during times when he was at his most exposed, physically or emotionally vulnerable.

Karn :- You're right!

He admitted, as he reflected deeply,

Karn :- Now, when I look back, I realize all of those moments were some of the lowest points in my life. I was exposed to potential hurt, whether it was physical harm or emotional distress, and that's when it seemed to emerge, as if to shield me from what I couldn't bear alone.

Suchitra smiled gently at him, her eyes filled with wisdom and understanding.

Suchitra :- Perhaps, it is teaching you a valuable lesson—to avoid placing yourself in such vulnerable situations and to learn to protect your inner self with the same strength. Maybe it is guiding you toward becoming a better version of yourself, one who understands when to express emotions and when to hold them back, preparing you for the trials and tribulations of the future.

Karn pondered over her words, realizing the profound truth in them. He understood that this mystery power was more than just a protective force; it was a part of his identity, urging him to grow stronger and wiser with every challenge he faced. With a thoughtful expression on his face, spoke up once again, trying to navigate through the tangled web of his thoughts.

Karn :- One more thing, you told me that my brothers too were to take birth along with me to help and guide me in this journey. How can I find them? How will I know who is my elder brother Ram?

Karn's voice carried the weight of genuine longing, hoping for an answer that would illuminate the path before him. Suchitra listened attentively, her demeanor calm and reassuring.

Suchitra :- This is something only you can discover on your own.

She replied thoughtfully.

Suchitra :- Have you met any person who might be your close or distant relative... or your friend... or even in your family, who you think has always been by your side and has guided you in times of need? Or maybe someone who you look up to, if you ever feel you can count on someone?

As Suchitra spoke, Karn's mind began to sift through the memories of countless interactions, various moments in his life that shone like beacons of guidance and support. Suddenly, a wave of realization washed over him, bringing with it a clarity that was as enlightening as the dawn.

Karn's eyes widened, reflecting the spark of understanding that had ignited within him. He turned to Suchitra, a newfound light dancing in his gaze, and shared his revelation with an expression that blended surprise with gratitude.

Karn :- Yeah, I have... Vasudev Krishna... my cousin. He's not just my relative. He's been my friend, guardian, advisor, and teacher. Every time I needed support, he was there for me, a steady presence in the landscape of my life.

Suchitra smiled warmly, affirmation glowing in her eyes. There, embedded in their conversation, lay the truth Karn had been seeking.

Suchitra :- There you go!

She said softly, acknowledging his discovery with gentle pride.

Suchitra :- Bharat already has his brother Ram by his side to guide him.

Karn nodded at her, absorbing the reassurance and comfort her words provided, feeling satisfied by her response for the time being. There was a warmth in her eyes as she smiled affectionately at her husband, delighted to have eased his worries, even if only for a moment, and to make him feel better about himself.

The sky had transformed into a deep, dark blue, signifying the fast-approaching dawn that would soon bathe the world in its gentle light. As the serene quiet of the early morning enveloped them, the tranquility was gently interrupted by the familiar sound of baby Shatrunjay’s cries. She shared a knowing glance with Karn before she gracefully rose from her place. With a subtle pat on Karn's shoulder, she moved inside the cozy warmth of their home to cater to their little one's needs.



The soft light of dawn filtered through the elaborate latticework of Nakul's chamber, casting delicate patterns across the polished floor. A faint, floral fragrance wafted in from the palace gardens, blending with the gentle warmth of the morning sun. Nakul sat on the stone ledge by the window, watching as the horizon slowly brightened, colors spilling across the sky in soft pinks and golds. It was a rare, quiet moment in the palace of Indraprastha, and Nakul’s gaze remained fixed on the distant sun, his thoughts adrift.

The quiet creak of the chamber door pulled him back to the present. His mother, Kunti, entered quietly, dressed in simple yet regal garments. Her face bore a soft, affectionate expression as she saw her son, his profile serene in the morning light. Nakul noticed her presence and turned with a warm, gentle smile, quickly standing to greet her.

Nakul :- Mother!

He said, folding his hands respectfully and stepping forward to embrace her.

Kunti :- Nakul, I thought I would find you here.

She murmured, her voice soothing and warm. She placed her hands on his shoulders, looking at him with eyes filled with love and concern. They stood quietly for a moment, Kunti studying her son’s face as if searching for answers to unspoken questions. Finally, she asked,

Kunti :- What were you thinking about, my son?

Nakul hesitated, giving a slight shrug as his gaze drifted back out the window.

Nakul :- Nothing important, Mother...

He replied softly, though his eyes hinted at a deeper restlessness beneath his calm exterior. Kunti moved closer to him, understanding his reticence but pressing gently.

Kunti :- Surely, nothing important cannot keep a man like you so deep in thought at such an early hour. Tell me, have you had any word from Awantika recently?

She gave a small, knowing smile. His expression softened, and he gave a slight nod.

Nakul :- Yes, she is well. She respects my decision to delay the wedding, as difficult as it is for her.

Kunti raised an eyebrow thoughtfully, her tone becoming gentle but probing.

Kunti :- And how long, my son, do you think you will keep her waiting? When do you believe would be the right time for this marriage?

Nakul sighed and ran a hand through his hair.

Nakul :- I don’t know, Mother. I thought… perhaps when my brother returns from exile.

His voice was laced with a faint uncertainty, as if even this answer was one he had not fully convinced himself of. Kunti’s expression grew pensive, her brow furrowing as she listened. After a moment’s silence, she spoke with quiet resolve.

Kunti :- Nakul, do you remember what your brother Karn said before he left? He wished for nothing more than to see this family whole and happy when he returned. To see each of you settled, secure… content.

Nakul’s gaze drifted back to the horizon, and he gave a thoughtful nod.

Nakul :- I do remember, Mother. And yet… so much has changed. Our family is different now, with everyone’s hearts still unsettled in one way or another. I’m not certain a marriage would change any of that.

Kunti’s hand found his, her touch gentle and steadying.

Kunti :- Nakul, a marriage might not change everything, but it could bring a little peace, a small measure of joy in the midst of all our trials. Sometimes, that is enough to ease the weight of waiting and uncertainty.

Nakul sighed deeply, the weight of her words settling over him. He knew the truth in them, but his heart still felt heavy with lingering doubts.

Nakul :- I would never oppose a marriage if it brought happiness to our family, but… I just wish I knew that it was the right time.

Kunti squeezed his hand, her voice calm and motherly.

Kunti :- We may never know the perfect time, Nakul. Life seldom offers such certainties. But if there is even a chance that your union with Awantika could bring a spark of joy, then that, my son, may be reason enough.

Nakul considered her words, turning them over in his mind like smooth stones. Finally, he nodded slowly, surrendering some of his hesitation.

Nakul :- Perhaps you are right, Mother. If this is what everyone wishes for, then I will not resist it. I want my family to be at peace, to see all of us together without the shadows of sorrow hanging over us.

Kunti smiled, her eyes softening with gratitude and pride.

Kunti :- Thank you, my son. I will speak with the others—especially Queen Draupadi. She will understand the significance of this moment as well. Together, we will make sure that the preparations are done with the blessings of all.

Nakul’s tense expression eased, a quiet smile playing on his lips.

Nakul :- That would ease my heart greatly, Mother. I don’t ask for much… only that Awantika feels welcome and accepted in this home, and that our marriage doesn’t add to the family’s worries but rather gives them a moment to breathe and smile.

Kunti brushed a hand gently over his cheek, her touch filled with both pride and tenderness.

Kunti :- You have a noble heart, my son. And I know Awantika will cherish that. She has already shown such patience and understanding. With you by her side, I have no doubt she will bring light to our family.

Nakul gave a small nod, a newfound calm settling over him. He looked back out the window one last time, feeling as if the morning sunlight itself had grown warmer, more welcoming. The sunrise, once a quiet witness to his solitude, now seemed a little brighter, a little more hopeful.

Kunti gestured toward the door, her expression lightening.

Kunti :- Come, Nakul. Let us not keep the others waiting. Breakfast will be ready soon, and I imagine there are already a hundred matters to tend to in the palace.

Nakul smiled, a hint of playfulness returning to his eyes.

Nakul :- Yes, Mother. Though I suspect half of those matters were only delayed because you were determined to check on me first.

She chuckled, shaking her head.

Kunti :- Perhaps so. But a mother’s heart will always be with her children, no matter how many royal duties await.

Nakul extended his arm, and together they walked from the chamber, their steps light as the warmth of the new day filled the palace. Kunti’s presence beside him felt like a balm, a reminder that no matter how uncertain the future might seem, he was not alone. And for the first time in many months, Nakul found himself looking forward—not with dread, but with a quiet, cautious hope.



In the heart of the Anga Pradesh palace, an afternoon sun cast a warm glow through the intricately carved windows of a grand chamber. The thick curtains had been pulled back, allowing sunlight to spill in, illuminating the room’s marbled floor and casting intricate shadows on the walls. The air was thick with the scent of herbs and medicinal balms, and beside the large, silk-covered bed stood small clay pots of salves and ointments, their potent fragrances lingering in the air.

On the bed lay a figure, his body wrapped in bandages that snaked around his arms, torso, and forehead. Dark hair lay matted against his brow, and his skin had a pallor that made the bruises beneath his eyes appear even more pronounced. Suddenly, a low groan escaped his lips as he shifted, and his eyes fluttered open, taking in the room with a hazy confusion.

Vikram winced, pain flashing across his face as he attempted to raise his hand. The bandages brushed against his skin, and he brought his hand in front of his face, scrutinizing the layers of cloth binding his wounds. Each movement sent a dull throb through his limbs, yet he forced himself to sit up, his gaze turning to the reflection in the polished bronze mirror across the room.

Slowly, he swung his legs over the side of the bed, pushing himself up and stumbling toward the mirror. He leaned forward, peering at the jagged cut across his right cheek. He traced it with his finger, wincing slightly as a stinging pain flared beneath his fingertips. His brows furrowed in frustration. The last thing he remembered was... what? Fragments of battle flashed briefly in his mind: the clash of metal, the shouts of men. But nothing about the injuries he bore now came into focus.

Taking a steadying breath, Vikram turned from the mirror and made his way toward the window. He shielded his eyes as he pulled back the curtain, squinting against the brightness that bathed the world outside. Slowly, his vision adjusted, and he took in the vast expanse of the palace grounds below, the winding pathways, and the sprawling gardens in full bloom. A light breeze drifted through, carrying with it the faint scent of jasmine from the royal gardens, a small comfort amidst his disorientation.

The next moment, silence was broken by hurried footsteps echoing down the corridor. A young maid, her face flushed with urgency, sprinted toward a door down the hall. She reached it and knocked quickly, her knuckles striking the polished wood in a frantic rhythm before pushing it open. Inside, Princess Pristi stood, engaged in discussion with two ministers.

Pristi’s head turned sharply at the maid’s entrance. She had the same dark eyes as her brother, a steely resolve in her gaze. The ministers fell silent, waiting.

Maid :- Princess!

She bowed, still catching her breath,

Maid :- Maharaj Vikram... he is missing from his chamber.

Pristi’s face darkened, her expression instantly shifting from composed to concerned. With a curt nod to dismiss the ministers, she followed the maid without a word, the folds of her elaborate silk robe rustling as she moved swiftly through the corridors, her mind racing with questions. How could Vikram have vanished in his condition?

Moments later, she and her nephew, Vasuhoma, arrived at Vikram’s chamber. They both paused at the threshold, their eyes falling upon the bed, now empty, and then drifting toward the open window.

There, hanging from the window frame, was a length of curtain rope, frayed at the edges and clearly pulled down by force. Vasuhoma stepped forward, examining the makeshift escape route with a mix of surprise and admiration.

Vasuhoma :- He probably climbed down.

He murmured, shaking his head with a hint of disbelief. Pristi’s expression hardened as she gazed at the rope, the worry in her eyes deepening.

Pristi :- It’s just like him.

She murmured, almost to herself,

Pristi :- To leave without a word, even like this.

Vasuhoma turned to her, his jaw clenched, his brow furrowed with worry and exasperation.

Vasuhoma :- Do you have any idea where he might have gone?

Pristi’s gaze lingered on the rope before she looked back at her nephew, her eyes shadowed with uncertainty. She shook her head slowly.

Pristi :- No, but if I know my brother, he won’t rest until he finds whatever he’s seeking.

For a moment, the two stood there in silence, both knowing that this was only the beginning of yet another mystery.



The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the opulent royal chamber, painting it in shades of deep gold and dusky brown. Pondrak paced the chamber in agitation. His wife, whom he had named Sumitra for her supposed wisdom, sat quietly, her gaze steady but tinged with pity as she watched him move.

Pondrak :- Why, Sumitra?

He muttered, more to himself than to her, his voice laced with bitterness.

Pondrak :- After everything I’ve done—feeding the poor, building temples, promising them blessings—still, they refuse to see. They bow to Dwarika’s Krishna but turn away from me.

Sumitra shook her head, her fingers resting gently on the arm of her chair.

Sumitra :- Arya...

She began, her tone soft but firm,

Sumitra :- You must abandon this illusion of divinity. The people know Krishna’s power, his compassion—no mortal man could hope to imitate that. He is the real God, and you…

She hesitated, watching as his face twisted with offense,

Sumitra :- You are only Pondrak, a man gifted with his likeness.

His eyes narrowed, flashing with hurt and anger.

Pondrak :- How could you say that, Sumitra? Of all people, you should be the one to believe in me!

His voice grew sharp, cracking with frustration.

Pondrak :- You should be my strongest support.

Sumitra met his gaze unflinchingly, but a sadness had crept into her eyes. She watched as he turned abruptly, striding to the window and staring out at the distant horizon.

Pondrak :- Very well.

He murmured darkly, his silhouette framed in the dying sunlight.

Pondrak :- If the people won’t recognize me willingly… then I shall make them see the truth.

A twisted smile curled across his lips, full of menace and resolve, as he whispered to himself. The chamber grew still, as if holding its breath in anticipation.



Did you like the chapter ?

I've tried to revert back to a chapter at a time.

So what do you think is coming up next?

Do comment if you have any suggestions.

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