The afternoon sun filtered through the trees near Karn's temporary hut, its golden rays glinting off the sharpened arrows he worked on. Seated beside a flat rock, Karn held an arrow steady, carefully grinding its tip to perfection against the rough surface. His focused movements were deliberate, the task providing him a moment of quiet reflection.

The sound of approaching footsteps drew his attention, and he looked up to see Maharaj Vikramaditya and Maharani Madhavi walking toward him, their faces alight with gratitude. Setting the arrow aside, Karn rose to his feet, his expression brightening as he approached them.

Karn :- Maharaj Vikramaditya. It is good to see you again.

He said warmly, extending his arms to embrace the king. They clasped each other tightly in a brotherly hug before stepping back.

Vikramaditya :- It is good to see you as well, Kunti putra Karn.

He replied, his voice filled with admiration. Maharani Madhavi joined her husband, bowing her head respectfully.

Madhavi :- Vijaydhari, words cannot express our gratitude for what you have done.

Vikramaditya continued, his tone earnest.

Vikramaditya :- You rid our kingdom of the terrible scourge that was Mrighasur. You saved countless lives, and for that, we are forever indebted to you.

Karn shook his head humbly, his demeanor calm and modest.

Karn :- What I did was for the good of the people. It is the responsibility of a warrior to protect those in need. If my actions brought peace to your kingdom, then I am happy.

Vikramaditya smiled, his eyes shining with genuine respect.

Vikramaditya :- Know this, Karn-if Indraprasth ever requires the aid of Asmaka, we will come to your side with open arms and unwavering loyalty.

Karn inclined his head.

Karn :- I thank you for that promise, Vikramaditya. And in return, I promise that our friendship will remain steadfast for as long as we draw breath.

The king gestured to a servant, who stepped forward with a long, beautifully crafted bow wrapped in silk. Unwrapping it with care, Vikramaditya presented the bow to Karn. Its polished wood gleamed, and intricate engravings of divine symbols ran along its length.

Vikramaditya :- This bow, is a gift from Asmaka, crafted by our finest artisans. It is strong enough to withstand even the fiercest of battles and can unleash divine astras with precision. May it serve you well in your future endeavors.

Karn accepted the bow with a smile, his fingers tracing the intricate designs.

Karn :- This is truly a masterpiece. I am honored to receive such a gift.

Madhavi stepped forward with several quivers of arrows, each beautifully adorned.

Madhavi :- These arrows are my gift to you. Each quiver holds something unique. Among them is a special set of arrows carrying fire powder, which will explode on contact. May these aid you in your battles.

Karn nodded in appreciation, taking the quivers with care.

Karn :- Your generosity humbles me. I will cherish these gifts.

Gesturing toward a shaded area near the hut, Karn invited the royal couple to sit.

Karn :- Please, take a seat. You must be tired after your journey.

As they settled on wooden stools, Karn poured water into clay cups and offered them sweets he had prepared earlier. The three of them sat together, their conversation flowing easily as they spoke of peace, alliances, and the future.



The golden rays of the afternoon sun filtered through the tall windows of the royal armory, casting patterns on the polished floor. In the corner of the room stood a magnificent bow, placed on an ornate stand. Its polished wood gleamed faintly, a relic of strength and legacy—the bow of Maharaj Pandu.

Five-year-old Dhruvsen stood on a wooden stool he had dragged over, his small hands gripping the edges as he stared at the bow with wide, curious eyes. It seemed larger than life to him, a symbol of the strength and heroism he imagined his father and uncles embodied. He leaned closer, wondering what made it so special.

“What are you doing here, Dhruv?”

Startled, Dhruvsen turned quickly to see his uncle Yudhisthir approaching, his calm and steady presence filling the room.

Dhruvsen :- Kakashree, why is it that only my father can lift this dhanush? What’s so special about it?

He began, pointing at the bow. Yudhisthir smiled gently, stepping closer.

Yudhisthir :- This dhanush belonged to our father, Maharaj Pandu. He wanted his eldest son to carry on his legacy, so perhaps it is the love and will of our father that allows Jeysth Karn to lift it.

He said, his voice calm and warm. Dhruvsen tilted his head in thought.

Dhruvsen :- But you’re Maharaj Pandu’s son too. Why can’t you lift it, Kakashree? Shouldn’t it belong to you too?

Yudhisthir chuckled softly, kneeling to meet the boy’s curious gaze.

Yudhisthir :- You’re right, I am Pitashree Pandu’s son too, but there was a time when I tried to lift this dhanush, and I couldn’t move it—not even a little.

Dhruvsen :- Why?

He asked, his eyes wide with wonder. Yudhisthir’s expression turned reflective.

Yudhisthir :- Perhaps it was because I was young then, and I didn’t understand much about the world or the responsibilities of a king. A dhanush like this carries more than just weight—it carries the weight of leadership, of dharm.

Dhruvsen’s eyes sparkled with excitement.

Dhruvsen :- Can you lift it now, Kakashree?

Yudhisthir hesitated for a moment, then stood and walked toward the bow. He grasped it firmly, closing his eyes as he took a deep breath. The room seemed to hold its breath along with him. Slowly, he lifted the bow—and to Dhruvsen’s amazement, it rose effortlessly in his hands.

Dhruvsen :- You did it! You lifted it, Kakashree! That means you can be king!

He exclaimed, clapping his hands with delight. Yudhisthir smiled faintly, lowering the bow gently back onto its stand. He touched the bow to his forehead before stepping away.

Yudhisthir :- No, Dhruvsen. I don’t wish for a throne, nor do I desire power. My only wish is to live my life following my dharm as a Kshatriya.

He said, kneeling before the boy once more. A soft voice interrupted them.

“Karn would be proud of his younger brother.”

They turned to see Draupadi standing in the doorway, her expression warm and knowing. Dhruvsen ran to her, excitement bubbling in his voice.

Dhruvsen :- Ma! Did you see? Kakashree lifted Pitamah's dhanush! He can be king!

Draupadi knelt, taking her son into her arms with a smile.

Draupadi :- Yes, my child, I saw it. And I saw more than that. I saw your sincerity, your humility, and your unwavering commitment to dharm.

She said. Her gaze shifted to Yudhisthir. Yudhisthir lowered his gaze, humility softening his features. Draupadi’s smile deepened as she added,

“Maharaj Pandu would be proud of you as well.”

The room fell silent as the three of them stood together, the weight of Pandu’s legacy lingering in the quiet air, not as a burden, but as a source of strength and guidance for generations to come.



The sun hung high in the sky, casting an ominous golden hue over the dense forest as the chariot thundered forward, driven by the steady hands of Ghandvega. The rhythmic pounding of the horses' hooves echoed like war drums, stirring the air with anticipation. Karn sat atop the chariot, his Vijay bow resting against his shoulder, its golden sheen glowing faintly in the light. His armor, adorned with intricate carvings, bore the marks of countless battles.

Karn :- So, this is the final conquest.

He remarked, his deep voice calm but resolute.

Ghandvega :- It is. But it will also be the most difficult. Makrasur's entire army awaits us-a full akshayini force of demons, beasts, and warriors. Be prepared, Karn. They could appear at any moment.

He replied, glancing over his shoulder. Karn nodded, taking a deep breath to steady himself. He reached for his kronch shell and blew into it with all his might. The sound tore through the forest, piercing the silence with a bone-chilling resonance that sent birds scattering and made smaller creatures flee. The air seemed to shiver with its echo, and even Ghandvega felt a chill run down his spine.

Karn then pulled the string of his Vijay bow, the powerful twang reverberating like thunder. It was a signal, a declaration of his arrival. He was not here to hide or sneak in the shadows-he was here to face the enemy head-on.

As the chariot rounded a bend, the forest suddenly parted to reveal a vast clearing, and Ghandvega pulled the reins to a halt. Karn's eyes widened slightly as he took in the sight before him.

Makrasur's army stretched as far as the eye could see, a sea of chaos and malevolence. Towering elephants with iron-plated tusks stood in disciplined ranks, their eyes glowing crimson. Chariots bristling with weaponry rolled into position, driven by snarling demons with grotesque features. Cavalry mounted on monstrous beasts roared, their weapons glinting menacingly. In the skies above, winged asurs circled like vultures, ready to swoop down at the first command.

Ghandvega :- An akshayini army of asurs.

He muttered, his tone grim. The demons let out a deafening roar, shaking the very earth as they began their march toward the lone chariot. The air grew thick with tension, the ground trembling beneath the weight of the approaching army. Ghandvega flicked the reins, urging the horses forward.

Ghandvega :- It's time, Karn. Let's meet them head-on!

Karn gripped his bow tightly, his face a mask of unyielding determination. He raised it high and nocked an arrow, his fingers steady as he drew back the string.

Karn :- For dharm and justice.

He muttered under his breath before releasing the arrow. The first arrow tore through the air, a streak of light that struck its target with deadly precision. A winged demon fell from the sky, its body crashing into the ground with a sickening thud. Karn's hands moved with inhuman speed, drawing and firing in rapid succession. Arrows rained down upon the advancing army, each one finding its mark with devastating accuracy.

The sky above became a storm of Karn's arrows, their bloodthirsty tips cutting through demons and beasts alike. Enemies fell in the hundreds, their ranks thinning as the relentless assault continued.

But Makrasur's forces were unrelenting. A horde of demons surged forward, hurling spears, maces, chakras, and axes toward Karn's chariot. The weapons filled the sky like a deadly rain, their sharp edges glinting in the fiery light.

Ghandvega skillfully maneuvered the chariot, but the sheer number of attacks was overwhelming. Karn, undeterred, stood firm. With fluid movements, he drew and released arrows in quick succession, intercepting the incoming weapons and shattering them in mid-air. His focus was absolute, his every action calculated and precise.



Though some weapons managed to scrape past his defenses, leaving cuts and bruises on his arms, Karn remained unfazed. His only concern was ensuring Ghandvega's safety as he destroyed anything that threatened the charioteer.

Ghandvega :- Impressive, Karn. Your skill with the bow is unmatched. Even the Gods would face a hard time against such onslaught.

He called out, his voice filled with admiration even as he urged the horses forward. Karn didn't respond, his attention fully on the battlefield. Reaching for another quiver, he produced arrows with sharp, flat heads-designed to slice through enemy ranks. With a single motion, he fired them in a wide arc, cutting down an entire wave of charging demons. The surviving enemies hesitated, fear flickering in their crimson eyes.

Seizing the moment, Karn pulled an explosive arrow from the quiver Madhavi had gifted him. He whispered a mantra over it, charging it with divine energy before firing it into the midst of the enemy. The arrow struck the ground with a thunderous explosion, engulfing the area in fire and smoke. The terrified screams of demons echoed as the inferno consumed them, forcing the remaining forces to scatter.

The chariot surged forward through the chaos, but the army regrouped quickly. A wall of iron-clad elephants charged toward them, their tusks gleaming like swords as they trumpeted in fury. Ghandvega tightened his grip on the reins, his face set with determination.

Karn wasted no time, nocking another explosive arrow and aiming for the lead elephant. The arrow struck its target, and the beast let out an ear-splitting cry as it fell, causing a chain reaction that sent the others stumbling. Fire spread across the battlefield, illuminating the carnage as the mighty creatures collapsed one by one.

Still, the demons pressed on. Chariots raced toward Karn from all directions, their drivers unleashing a storm of weapons upon him and Ghandvega. Karn countered with long, mantra-charged arrows, each one slicing through multiple enemies before finding its final mark. The battlefield became a graveyard of shattered chariots and fallen warriors.

Sweat dripped down Karn's brow, but his hands moved as if possessed, firing arrow after arrow in an unrelenting assault. His quivers emptied and were replenished as he switched between regular, sharp-headed, and explosive arrows, adapting his strategy to the ever-changing battle. Karn allowed himself a small smile but didn't let his focus waver.

Karn :- This battle is far from over.

As the chariot pushed deeper into the enemy ranks, the air grew heavier, the shadows darker. The battlefield trembled under the fury of Karn's arrows as his chariot cut through the chaos like a blade of light in the darkness. Each demon warrior that charged at him was pierced by multiple arrows, their cries of agony echoing across the field. Those who were not struck down fled in terror, unable to withstand the relentless onslaught of Karn's unmatched precision.

Ghandvega maneuvered the chariot skillfully, avoiding fallen chariots, wounded beasts, and shattered weapons that littered the ground.

Ghandvega :- You're forcing them to scatter, Karn, you have to kill them, not make them flee.

He said, glancing back at the warrior standing tall behind him. Karn didn't respond, his focus unshaken as he reached for another set of arrows, unleashing a deadly storm that further decimated the ranks of Makrasur's army. Yet, the demons, regrouping with feral determination, began to launch a counterattack. A hailstorm of arrows darkened the sky as hundreds of asurs aimed for the lone chariot slicing through their lines.

Undeterred, Karn raised his bow and invoked the power of the Agni Astra, chanting the mantra under his breath. A blazing arrow emerged, glowing with the fiery essence of destruction. Karn fired it toward the sky, where the arrows of the demons converged. The Agni Astra detonated mid-air, igniting the incoming arrows and reducing them to ash. The explosion bathed the battlefield in a crimson glow, and Karn's chariot surged forward through the haze, his path illuminated by flames.

Still, the demons refused to relent. Summoning their ancient magic, they conjured a massive illusion around Karn. The sky turned an ominous shade of black, and a torrential downpour began, the likes of which seemed to draw upon the heavens' reserves from eons past. The rain was cold and heavy, soaking the ground and turning it into a swamp. Karn narrowed his eyes against the downpour, his grip on his bow firm. He reached into his quiver and drew an arrow, invoking the Vayu Astra.

Karn :- Let the winds of the heavens rise.

He muttered, pulling the string of his bow taut. As the arrow soared upward, a mighty gale erupted across the battlefield. The rain was swept away in an instant, the clouds dispersed by the howling winds, and the sun reappeared, casting its fierce light on the carnage below. The demons stumbled, blinded by the sudden brightness, but Karn gave them no respite. He drew a glowing arrow from his quiver, its radiance unmistakable. It was the Indra Astra, gifted by the king of the Gods himself.



Karn aimed at the heavens and loosed the arrow, its trail burning like a comet as it disappeared into the sky. For a moment, the battlefield fell silent. Then the heavens roared as millions of arrows rained down from above, glowing with divine energy.

The army of Makrasur was engulfed in utter destruction. Chariots were obliterated, their drivers slain before they could react. Elephants toppled, their mighty bodies crushed under the weight of the divine assault. Demonic horses, confused and panicked, bucked wildly, their riders falling to their deaths. Weapons shattered under the unrelenting storm of arrows, and the battlefield became a wasteland of corpses, fire, and ruin.

High above, vultures began to circle, drawn by the carnage. Below, the once-mighty army of Makrasur was no more.

------------

Deep within his lair, Makrasur knelt before the sacred fire, his eyes fixed on the intricate symbols he was carving into the floor. The yagya he had been preparing for months was nearing its climax. His muttering chants were interrupted by the hurried approach of a soldier, who burst into the chamber and bowed low.

"Mahabali Makrasur! The battlefield... it is as though the Gods themselves have descended to destroy us. The skies rained arrows of fire and lightning. It feels like Lord Indra has come down to wipe us out!"

The soldier panted, his face pale. Makrasur froze, his hand tightening around the ceremonial blade he was using. Slowly, he stood, his face darkening with fury.

Makrasur :- Impossible! The Gods cannot intervene directly until the portal is opened. Are you sure of what you saw?

Hhe growled, his voice a low rumble. The soldier's voice trembled.

"My Lord, I swear it. The destruction outside... it is beyond the power of any mortal. The warrior in the field is wielding divine weapons-Agni Astra, Vayu Astra, and... Vajra Astra."

Makrasur's eyes widened, and he muttered under his breath,

Makrasur :- Vajra...

A faint tremor ran through the chamber as if the name itself carried power. At that moment, a deafening thunderclap echoed through the lair, shaking its foundations. The air grew cold and electric, the unmistakable charge of divine energy filling the space. Makrasur clenched his fists, his crimson eyes glowing.

Outside, Karn stood on his chariot, the Vajra Astra glowing in his hands. The weapon, forged by the Devas to destroy asurs, crackled with power as lightning danced around it. With a mighty cry, Karn hurled the Vajra Astra toward the remnants of Makrasur's forces.

The weapon streaked across the battlefield, trailing lightning that struck down every demon it passed. The skies erupted with light as bolts of energy rained down, chasing fleeing warriors and reducing them to ash. The earth itself seemed to quake under the force of the Vajra Astra, leaving no corner untouched.

------------

"My Lord... going out there means certain death!"

Makrasur grabbed the soldier by the throat, his rage barely contained.

Makrasur :- I will not cower like a coward while my army is annihilated!

He roared. The soldier gasped, clawing at Makrasur's hand. Makrasur's grip tightened, but his resolve wavered. Another thunderclap boomed through the chamber, and the soldier fell silent as the air grew colder still. The hum of divine energy was now undeniable.

With a frustrated snarl, Makrasur released the soldier, shoving him to the ground. He glanced toward the sacred fire, his face twisted in anger and resignation.

Makrasur :- If the Gods themselves have intervened, this yagya is lost.

Gathering his belongings, Makrasur turned to the back entrance of the lair.

Makrasur :- We will fight another day.

He said bitterly, vanishing into the shadows as the soldier remained kneeling, trembling in fear.

------------

Outside, the battlefield fell silent. Only the occasional flicker of flames and the distant flutter of vultures' wings disturbed the eerie stillness. Karn stood tall on his chariot, his gaze scanning the scene of destruction.

Ghandvega :- It's done.

He said softly, his voice laced with awe. Karn nodded, his expression grim but resolute.

Karn :- Atleast the army is dead.

He said, his eyes turning toward the entrance of Makrasur's lair. Ghandvega flicked the reins, and the chariot surged forward, rolling across the blood-soaked ground toward the lair.



The lair was eerily quiet as Karn and Ghandvega entered, their footsteps echoing faintly against the walls of the tunnel. The entrance, constructed from the twisted roots of a massive tree, loomed high above them like the maw of a great beast. Karn gripped his mace tightly, its golden head gleaming faintly in the dim, otherworldly light. The air inside was thick and heavy, as if the very walls were alive and watching them.

Ghandvega :- Strange. Where are the guards? The lair feels... abandoned.

He muttered, glancing around cautiously. Karn scanned his surroundings, his sharp eyes taking in every detail. The walls shimmered faintly, covered in glowing runes, and the air seemed to hum with residual magic. Illusionary corridors flickered in and out of view, and floating objects—books, weapons, and tools—hovered aimlessly, as if left in haste.

Karn :- The silence is unsettling. Stay alert. This could be a trap.

He said, his voice low. As they ventured deeper, they came upon a large chamber at the heart of the lair. In its center was the unfinished yagya, the sacred fire now reduced to smoldering embers. The air still carried the scent of burning herbs and incense, but the ritual was abandoned.

Ghandvega :- Makrasur didn’t even complete the yagya. He must have fled in a hurry.

Karn nodded, his gaze narrowing.

Karn :- Cowardice doesn’t suit an asur.

e said grimly. Suddenly, Ghandvega spotted movement in the shadows. A demon soldier stepped out hesitantly, his armor dented and his face pale with fear. Karn raised his mace, his body tensing, but the soldier fell to his knees, bowing his head.

"Please. Spare me. I mean no harm. Makrasur... he has fled."

The soldier said, his voice trembling.

Karn :- Where did he go?

He demanded, his voice cold and commanding. The soldier swallowed hard.

"I-I don’t know. He left through the back passage when he realized he couldn’t finish the ritual. But... I can take you to the captives. The Brahmins are being held in one of the chambers."

Karn exchanged a glance with Ghandvega before nodding.

Karn :- Lead the way.

The soldier scrambled to his feet and led them through the twisting corridors of the lair. They passed more glowing chambers and illusionary pathways, each one a testament to the asur's mastery of dark magic. Finally, they reached a heavy wooden door, its surface reinforced with iron bands.

Karn wasted no time. He raised his mace high and brought it down with a resounding crash, shattering the lock in a single blow. The door creaked open, revealing a group of Brahmins seated calmly within. To Karn’s surprise, they did not appear frightened or distressed. Instead, they rose to their feet with serene smiles on their faces, their eyes bright with relief.

"Blessed are we. We knew that Lord Vishnu would send someone to protect his devotees."

One of the Brahmins said, stepping forward. The others nodded, joining in a chorus of praise for the divine. Karn stepped aside, gesturing for them to leave.

Karn :- You are free now.

The Brahmins filed out of the chamber, their hands raised in blessings.

"May you be victorious in all your endeavors. The Lord’s hand guides you."

As they walked away, their voices rose in a song of devotion, the hymn echoing through the lair long after they disappeared from sight. The soldier lingered nervously, shifting his weight from foot to foot.

"There is... one more captive. In the last chamber."

Karn :- Show us.

The soldier led them further into the lair, stopping before another door. This one was smaller but heavily reinforced, the faint sound of breathing coming from within. Karn’s heart quickened as he approached.

Breaking the lock with a swift strike of his mace, Karn pushed the door open. Inside, sitting on a small bed, was a woman. Her face was pale, her eyes streaked with dried tears, but there was an unmistakable strength in her posture. She looked up sharply as the door opened, her expression shifting from fear to astonishment as she recognized the man standing before her.

Karn :- Bhanumati....

He muttered, his voice barely audible. Bhanumati rose to her feet slowly, her hands trembling as she clutched the edge of the bed. Her lips parted in surprise, and for a fleeting moment, a small, uncertain smile tugged at the corners of her mouth.

Bhanumati :- Karn?

She said softly, her voice trembling with disbelief. Karn stepped inside, his mace dropping to his side.

Karn :- I... I didn’t know you were here. Are you all right?

He said, his eyes filled with concern. Bhanumati hesitated, her gaze searching his face. Seeing the genuine worry in his eyes, the tension in her body melted away. She took a tentative step forward before suddenly breaking down, fresh tears spilling down her cheeks.

Bhanumati :- Karn, I was so frightened. I didn’t know if I’d ever see my children again. I was terrified they’d wake up and find their mother gone...

She sobbed, rushing toward him. Her voice cracked as she clung to him, her fingers curling into the fabric of his tunic. Karn froze for a moment, unsure of what to do, but then he slowly wrapped his arms around her, holding her close.

Karn :- You’re safe now, I won’t let anything happen to you. I’m here.

He said softly, his voice steady despite the storm of emotions swirling within him. Bhanumati buried her face in his chest, her sobs gradually subsiding into quiet sniffles. She felt the strength in his embrace, the unspoken promise that he would protect her no matter what.

For a long moment, they stood in silence, the weight of the ordeal lifting as relief washed over them both. Finally, Bhanumati pulled back slightly, her hands still resting on his arms.

Bhanumati :- Thank you. For coming for me. For saving me.

She said, her voice barely above a whisper. Karn shook his head.

Karn :- I didn’t know you were here. But I would have come sooner if I had.

A faint smile crossed Bhanumati’s lips, and she nodded.

Bhanumati :- I believe you.

Karn glanced at Ghandvega, who stood at the doorway, watching silently.

Karn :- Let’s get her out of here.

He said, his tone firm.



The lair was quiet now, its eerie magic subdued after the chaos of the day. The faint, golden glow of a small fire played across the chamber's rough stone walls, casting dancing shadows. Karn sat on the edge of a simple bed, his posture weary but alert. His angvastra lay folded beside him, revealing a body marked by battle-cuts and bruises etched onto his skin like a warrior's tale.

Bhanumati knelt beside him, her touch firm yet gentle as she dabbed a cloth soaked in medicinal herbs onto a jagged wound along his forearm. The scent of crushed leaves and ointments mixed with the earthy stillness of the lair. She worked in silence, her brow furrowed in focus, but there was something in her expression-a quiet storm of emotions she refused to let surface.

Bhanumati :- Does it hurt?

She asked softly, her voice barely louder than the crackling fire. Karn glanced at her, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

Karn :- Nothing I can't handle.

Her hands stilled briefly before she resumed.

Bhanumati :- That's the problem with you. You think you're invincible, Karn. You carry the weight of a thousand battles, but even you are human.

She said, her tone sharper now. He chuckled faintly, though the sound was tinged with exhaustion.

Karn :- And you, Bhanu, act as though tending to my wounds is your birthright.

She met his gaze briefly, her lips curving into a small smile.

Bhanumati :- Someone has to, or you'll run yourself into the ground.

For a moment, the room fell into an easy silence. Karn's eyes drifted to her face, her features softened by the firelight. She seemed different-older, not in years but in the weight she carried. Her hands were steady, but there was a faint tremor in her voice, a vulnerability she rarely let show.

Karn :- How have you been?

He asked suddenly, his voice quieter. Her hands paused again, just for a heartbeat.

Bhanumati :- I've been... managing. Life hasn't been easy, but I suppose that's true for us all.

Her answer was careful, guarded. Karn nodded, though a flicker of guilt crossed his face.

Karn :- You shouldn't have had to manage alone.

She gave a soft laugh, though there was no humor in it.

Bhanumati :- I've learned not to expect anyone to shoulder my burdens, Karn. Not anymore.

Her words lingered in the air, and Karn found himself unable to meet her eyes.

Karn :- I'm sorry. For what you've been through. For not...

He trailed off, unsure how to finish the thought. Her expression tightened, and she set the cloth aside, folding her hands in her lap.

Bhanumati :- You didn't even know, did you? Back then, when Duryodhan took me from my swayamvar - I thought you might stop him. But you didn't.

Karn stiffened, guilt flashing across his face.

Karn :- Bhanu, I didn't know. I. I never meant to-

Bhanumati :- Never meant to hurt me? You didn't have to. Your indifference was enough.

She interrupted, her voice trembling. The words struck like a blow, and Karn's shoulders sagged. He reached out hesitantly, his fingers brushing hers.

Karn :- It wasn't indifference, I was blind. Blind to so much, to you... to what you might have felt.

He said quietly. Her breath hitched, but she refused to meet his gaze.

Bhanumati :- I don't need your apologies, Karn. Not now, not after everything.

Karn :- I know. But I want you to know-I see you now. I see what I missed, what I should have seen all those years ago.

He said, his voice heavy with regret. She looked up at him then, her eyes shining with unshed tears.

Bhanumati :- And what do you see, Karn? A woman who was a mistake? A responsibility you feel guilty for not protecting?

He shook his head, his voice firm.

Karn :- No. I see someone who's endured more than anyone should. I see strength, resilience... and someone I admire deeply.

Her lips parted slightly, as if to respond, but no words came. Karn continued, his tone softer now.

Karn :- I didn't save you today out of guilt, Bhanu. And it wasn't pity. I didn't even know you were here. But when I saw you... I couldn't bear the thought of losing you. Not again.

He faltered, gathering his thoughts. Her tears spilled over then, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she whispered,

Bhanumati :- Why now, Karn? Why see me now, when it's too late?

Karn :- Because I was a fool, was so consumed by my own struggles my place in this world that I didn't stop to see what was right in front of me.

He admitted, his voice breaking. The fire crackled softly, filling the silence that followed. Bhanumati looked at him, her emotions raw and unguarded.

Bhanumati :- And what do you see now?

He hesitated, then stepped closer, his hands trembling slightly as he took hers.

Karn :- I see the woman I've always respected, always admired.... and now, I see the woman I can't imagine my life without.

Her breath caught, her heart pounding as his words sank in.

Bhanumati :- Karn..

Karn :- I don't care about the past, Bhanu. All I care about is the future if you'll let me be a part of it.

He said, his voice steady now. She searched his face, her tears falling freely now.

Bhanumati :- You mean that?

He nodded, his gaze unwavering.

Karn :- With everything I am.

For a moment, she said nothing, her emotions too overwhelming to put into words. But then, slowly, she nodded, a small, trembling smile breaking through.

Bhanumati :- Then stay. Stay with me, Karn.

He pulled her into a gentle embrace, holding her as though the world might shatter if he let go.

Karn :- Always.

He murmured, his voice steady and full of promise. Drawing a drop of blood, he gently touched the gap in her hair parting, filling it with the sacred red.

The fire burned low, casting their entwined shadows on the wall as the two stood together, their hearts finally finding the solace they had sought for so long.



The chamber in the royal palace of Hastinapur was dimly lit, the soft glow of oil lamps casting long shadows on the intricately carved walls. Seated on an ornate couch, Dhritrashtra rested his hands on the armrests, his face contemplative. Beside him sat Gandhari, her eyes hidden behind her blindfold but her posture upright and attentive. Across from them, Shakuni leaned forward, his cane resting beside him as he spoke with calculated precision.

Shakuni :- It has been some time now, and I believe we should seriously consider finding a suitable bride for Duryodhan.

He began, his tone measured. Gandhari stiffened, her brow furrowing beneath the edge of her blindfold.

Gandhari :- Another one of your schemes, bhrata Shakuni? You’ve tried this before, only to stir tensions between the Kauravs and the Pandavs. Is this another trick to divide the family further?

Shakuni sighed, feigning exasperation.

Shakuni :- Sister, no one knew Pristi was in love with Sahdev, before her marriage with Dussasan was fixed. The previous conflict is on the Pandavs, moreover this is not about politics or rivalry. This is about Duryodhan’s future. Don’t you want to see him settled and happy?

Gandhari’s lips tightened.

Gandhari :- And yet, wasn’t it you who said not long ago that Duryodhan hadn’t moved on from Bhanumati? That he had no interest in marrying anyone else?

Shakuni clenched his teeth momentarily but forced a smile.

Shakuni :- That was then. But things have changed. Ever since he met Sumali, I have noticed a shift in him. She brings out something in him that I haven’t seen in years—a sense of purpose, of confidence. She could be a great addition to his life.

Dhritrashtra, who had been silent until now, tilted his head slightly.

Dhritrashtra :- Sumali... The Asur princess. Tatshree Bhism and the other elders will never approve of such a match. An Asur princess as the future queen of Hastinapur? It will be not be seen as good.

He said, his deep voice thoughtful. Shakuni’s smile grew sharper.

Shakuni :- And yet, Bheem is married to Hidimba, and they have a Rakshas son, Ghatotkacha. If the Pandavs can accept such a union, why can’t we?

Gandhari interjected, her voice firm.

Gandhari :- This is different. Bheem is not the eldest brother. Duryodhan is. His bride will be the future queen, and her lineage matters. You know this as well as I do, Shakuni.

Shakuni leaned back, his fingers tapping lightly on his cane.

Shakuni :- And I ask you, my dear sister and brother-in-law—does your son’s happiness not matter more than the opinions of Gangaputra Bhism and Vidur? Duryodhan has endured much. Shouldn’t we do what is best for him, regardless of the whispers of the court?

Dhritrashtra’s face grew pensive, his fingers tightening around the armrests of his chair.

Dhritrashtra :- If Duryodhan truly wants to marry Sumali, then I will not stand in his way. The wedding will take place.

Gandhari :- Arya...

She protested, but Shakuni interjected,

Shakuni :- Sumali is not just an Asur princess. She is also human, born as a boon to her family. She has shown her strength and intelligence, and she could be a blessing to this family too. Trust me, sister, this union could bring great fortune to Duryodhan.

Though uncertainty lingered in Gandhari’s heart, she hesitated. Finally, for the sake of her son’s happiness, she gave a reluctant nod.

Gandhari :- If this is what will make my son happy, then so be it.

Shakuni’s smile deepened as he leaned back, the flickering light of the lamps casting his shadow long and serpentine on the wall behind him. The wheels of his plan were in motion, and there was no turning back now.



Did you like the chapter?

I hope it was worth the wait.

How was the action scene? Enjoyed it?

Next chapter would be the last of Karn's exile, another portion of the story would be completed.

Do comment if you have any suggestions.

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