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"I BELIEVE YOU..."

Suyodhana froze as he heard the calm, confident voice from behind. He turned quickly to see who had spoken those words.

There, standing at a distance, was a boy - a boy he had never seen before.

His eyes were bright, full of kindness, yet they held a depth far beyond his years, as though he knew things no one else did. His smile was gentle but full of mischief, as if he saw the world in a way no one else could. He wore a simple yellow dhoti that swayed gently in the breeze, but it was the peacock feather resting on his head that caught Suyodhana's attention first. The feather sat perfectly, even without a crown, as though it belonged there - a symbol of something far greater than it appeared. In his hand, he held a bansuri, spinning it playfully between his fingers, as if it was a part of him, just like the feather on his head.

"Kanha."

Another voice was heard from behind the boy.

"Kanha!! Where are you?" The voice grew closer, more impatient.

It was Balarama, searching for his younger brother. He noticed Krishna but didn't see Suyodhana or the others at first.

"I just closed my eyes for a second, and you vanished!" Balarama said, a hint of worry in his voice.

Krishna smiled, glancing at Suyodhana before replying, "Dau, we are not alone..." He pointed subtly toward the group watching them. Then he whispered mischievously to Balarama, "Your favourite student is looking at you."

Balarama's eyes widened in realization as he finally saw everyone gathered. He looked at them and then back at Krishna, a knowing look, as if silently asking him, "What are you upto now, Kanha?"

Krishna just shrugged, but that playful grin never leaving his face.

All eyes were on the duo, yet no one dared to speak. There was something about the boy with the peacock feather - something beyond his appearance, something almost divine.

Krishna stepped forward, his gaze fixed on Suyodhana, and repeated the words, as though it was the simplest truth in the world. "I believe you."

Suyodhana blinked, still trying to process what was happening. He opened his mouth to speak but found no words.

"Someone believes me." he thought.

Krishna's smile widened, as if he knew exactly what Suyodhana was thinking.

But Suyodhana turned away, his voice low as he muttered, "Go away. It doesn't concern you." He took a step, then another, the weight of everything pressing down on him - Bhima's words calling him a bad omen, the accusations. "If they want to believe I pushed him, let them. I don't care." He just needed to be alone, away from all of it. Away from the voices, away from the eyes that judged him.

But before he could take another step, that same calm, almost playful voice stopped him again.

"Leaving already? You're really not going to hear what I have to say?" Krishna asked, as if he wasn't bothered by Suyodhana's rejection.

Suyo stopped, irritation rising in him. What was this boy playing at? He looked at Krishna, expecting to see mockery in his eyes. Instead, there was only that gentle smile, and the bansuri now rested lazily against Krishna's shoulder.

"You're not curious? You're going to leave without hearing what I have to say?" Krishna asked, stepping closer.

Suyo paused, confused by the question. He didn't want to talk, didn't want anyone's sympathy or judgement especially a stranger's.

But Krishna wasn't like the others. He wasn't accusing. He wasn't questioning. His smile was calm, patient, as though he had all the time in the world.

"Are you really going to walk away?" Krishna continued, with a hint of teasing. "Who knows, I might surprise you. Or," he added with a grin, "you might regret not hearing me out."

Suyo wanted to brush the boy off, to keep walking, but there was something about Krishna's presence that made it difficult - almost impossible - to walk away. It wasn't just his words - it was like Krishna already knew what Suyo was feeling, as if he could see through everything.

Krishna twirled the bansuri once in his hand and smiled wider. "Come now, at least stay long enough to hear me out. It might change everything."

Before Suyo could respond, another voice broke the silence.

"And who exactly are you?" Shakuni stepped forward, his eyes narrowed in suspicion, as he took in Krishna's simple appearance.

Krishna turned to face Shakuni, his expression unchanging. "Who am I?" he repeated, the smile that tugged at the corner of his lips broadening as he spoke.

"I'm many things... but today, I am Krishna, son of Nanda and Yashoda, from Gokul. A simple cowherd...." Somehow, it felt like more than just an introduction. He added with a grin, "but one who tends to finds himself in middle of things, much like now." He paused, glancing back at Suyodhana. "And this, is my elder brother, Balarama. I call him Dau." he added with a playful gesture to his brother beside him.

Balarama smiled, giving Suyo a nod.

"A cowherd boy, you say? And you think that entitles you to interfere in matters that doesn't concern you?" Shakuni asked as though he sensed that Krishna wasn't as simple as he appeared.

Krishna chuckled softly. "Ah, but that's where you're mistaken. It concerns me because I choose to make it so. After all, truth and justice are everyone's concern, are they not?"

Before Shakuni could retort, Krishna continued with a smile. "Besides, Maybe I'm here because our paths were meant to cross today. After all, isn't life full of such unexpected encounters?" He gave Shakuni a knowing glance before turning back to Suyodhana.

"Now, what will it be? Will you listen? Or will you still walk away, never knowing what might have been if you had stayed?"

Suyodhana looked at everyone around him briefly before looking back at Krishna. Against every instinct that told him to keep his guard up, something inside him said that this boy Krishna, was someone worth listening to.

With a slight nod, Suyodhana stayed.

Krishna stepped forward, his calm voice cutting through the tension.

"I saw everything," Krishna said, his tone gentle but firm. "I saw what really happened, and I know you did not push that boy."

Everyone turned to look at Krishna, their eyes wide in surprise.

Krishna continued, his eyes meeting Suyodhana's. "You tried to catch him when he slipped, but you missed. It wasn't your fault."

Suyo stood frozen, his emotions conflicted. Finally, someone had seen the truth.

"But... but we saw him push Bhrata Bhima!" Nakul protested, stepping forward.

Krishna raised his bansuri, pointing it playfully at Nakul. "What you saw is true, But what I saw is also true. Imagine this - if two people are standing in different places, they will see the same event in different ways."

He gestured toward the Pandavas - Yudhishthir, Nakul, Sahadev. "From where you stood, it looked like he pushed Bhima," Krishna said, pointing to Suyo. "But from where I stood, I saw that Bhima slipped, and he tried to catch him, but missed. Both are true. From your perspective, it looked like he pushed Bhima. From mine, it was clear he tried to help."

Nakul opened his mouth to argue, but Krishna continued, his tone gentle yet firm. "You see, truth has many faces, and each perspective carries its own truth. Just because your eyes saw one thing doesn't mean it defines what truly happened. What you saw wasn't wrong, but it wasn't the full story."

The group fell silent considering Krishna's words.

Suyodhana looked at Krishna. As he stared at him, a small smile tugged at his lips, despite the chaos within. Krishna caught that brief smile and returned it with one of his own - playful and full of mischief.

Krishna's gaze shifted back to the Pandavas. "It's easy to judge from afar, to see a moment and assume the worst. But only those who truly seek to understand will see the full picture."

Gandhari, standing nearby, felt relief. She had believed her son from the beginning, never doubting Suyodhana. Krishna's words were a confirmation of what she had always known in her heart - her Suyodhana would never do such a thing. He was innocent, and now the truth was finally out in the open. A soft smile crept across her lips.

The Kauravas exchanged glances, their faces lighting up with joy. Finally, someone had spoken the truth, and now no one could accuse their Jyesth Bhrata of pushing Bhima.

Shakuni, on the other hand, observed Krishna closely. He wasn't a fool. "This boy - he's clever," he thought, smiling as he realized that now Suyodhana would no longer be blamed.

Before Shakuni could even voice his thoughts, Krishna, as if reading his mind, turned to him with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Sometimes the most clever ones are those who simply let the truth speak for itself, don't you think?" he said, twirling his bansuri between his fingers.

Shakuni raised an eyebrow, caught off guard. Krishna's words hit their mark, yet they seemed to be spoken so innocently. "Indeed."

Bhishma, who had remained silent throughout, now found his gaze shifting between Krishna and Suyodhana. Realization dawned on his face. Had I been too quick to judge? Bhishma thought. His heart sank with guilt. He had been so protective of the Pandavas and concerned for Bhima that he had not even considered Suyodhana's side of the story. His own bias had clouded his judgment.

Krishna looked at Bhishma, catching the shift in his emotions. "Ah, old man," he said teasingly, pulling Bhishma out of his thoughts.

Bhishma blinked, confused. "Are you speaking to me, young boy?"

Krishna chuckled, spinning his bansuri around between his fingers. "I don't see anyone else old here except you," he teased, causing everyone to either smile or chuckle.

Bhishma's lips twitched into a slight smile. "You certainly have a way with words, Krishna."

Krishna met Bhishma's eyes. "But words are only as powerful as the truth behind them, old man."

Bhishma couldn't help but nod. "And you, it seems, have a good understanding of both."

Krishna's playful expression grew a little more serious as he gestured toward Suyodhana with his bansuri. "But, old man, you didn't even hear his side of the story before you judged him. Don't you think you owe him an apology?"

Bhishma's shoulders sank slightly as he realized the truth in Krishna's words. He turned to face Suyodhana, his voice filled with regret. "Putra Suyodhana, I should have asked you and listened to your side of the story as well. I was too quick to judge, and for that, I am sorry."

The weight of his own mistake was evident in Bhishma's voice as he continued, "In my concern for Bhima, I let my emotions cloud my judgment. I failed to uphold the very principles I hold dear - fairness and justice. I should have heard you out, just as I did the Pandavas."

Suyodhana stood still, staring at Bhishma, unsure of how to react. His Pitamah, the very pillar of Hastinapur whom he looked up to, was now apologizing to him. Suyodhana nodded slowly, his heart conflicted but lighter now that the burden of blame was lifted.

Krishna's eyes then moved toward the three Pandavas. "And what about you three? Do you think it's right to accuse someone without understanding what really happened? Shouldn't you apologize as well?" he asked, his voice light but firm.

Yudhishthir, always the just one, stepped forward first. "You are right, We may have misunderstood the whole thing. Nakul, Sahadev, we owe Suyodhana an apology." he said quietly.

Sahadev nodded in agreement, and both Yudhishthir and Sahadev turned to Suyodhana, saying their apologies with sincerity. "We are sorry."

Nakul, however, hesitated. "But-" he began, his thoughts conflicted.

Yudhishthir gently stopped him with a firm hand on his shoulder. "Apologize, Nakul."

Nakul sighed and reluctantly muttered, "Sorry"

Nakul glanced down, words sticking in his throat, his mind replaying the events over and over. "I know why he would push Bhrata Bhima... The whole fight, it started because of it... Because they heard Bhrata Bhima say Suyodhana is a bad omen..."

Krishna glanced at Nakul, his mischievous smile returning as if he knew exactly what Nakul was thinking. Yet, for now, Krishna remained silent, merely letting that playful smile speak volumes - almost as though he was waiting for the right moment to reveal something else entirely.

Krishna looked at his elder brother Balarama, who had remained silent throughout. "Dau, I wonder why they were fighting in the first place," Krishna said casually, though the glint in his eyes suggested he already knew the answer.

Balarama raised an eyebrow, giving Krishna a suspicious look. Though he said nothing, his gaze seemed to ask, You're up to something, aren't you?

Krishna responded with a mischievous smile, as if saying, Just play along, Dau.

Balarama shook his head slightly, indulging his younger brother's mischief. "Yes, I wonder too. Just look at them, all battered and bruised," he said, nodding towards the Kauravas.

Krishna continued, "Do you think it was Bhima who started the fight? After all, so many of them are injured because of him. Why would the they start a fight, knowing Bhima is stronger? It must have been Bhima who began it, right?"

Hearing this, Nakul, already on edge, couldn't hold back any longer, "No! It was not Bhrata Bhima who started the fight! They started it first!" He pointed angrily at the Kauravas.

Sushasana, standing among the Kauravas, sneered and stepped forward. "Yes, we started the fight. But it was because Bhima was talking badly about our Jyesth, Suyodhana!"

Nakul shot back. "Bhrata Bhima didn't say anything wrong. He only repeated what he heard."

One of the other Kauravas scoffed, his voice filled with anger. "We don't care what he heard! Bhima dared to disrespect our Jyesth. We won't stand by when someone insults our Jyesth."

Before the argument could escalate further, Suyodhana, who had been silent until now, suddenly stepped forward. "STOP IT!" His siad, silencing everyone instantly.

Suyo looked between both sides. He clenched his fists, his whole body tense, as if he was holding back a storm of emotions. He was tired of being the reason of so much division and chaos.

"JUST STOP!" Suyodhana shouted again, his voice filled with exhaustion and anger.

Krishna, satisfied, leaned towards Balarama and whispered, "Dau, let's go from here."

Balarama, still confused, whispered back, "But why did you do all this? Asking who started the fight, stirring things up, and making them fight again?"

Krishna replied, "Let's go and watch the drama from afar. Our work is done here."

Balarama gave him a knowing look but followed along.

Krishna had asked those questions to bring out the truth, knowing Suyo had stayed silent through the entire ordeal. By pushing the argument to its breaking point, Krishna had forced Suyo to finally speak up and confront the situation.

Suyo looked at Bhishma, the words trembling on his lips as he finally asked, "Pitamah, am I... am I a... bad omen?"

Suyo's words - "bad omen" - shocked everyone. Silence fell over the royal family. No one in Hastinapur had dared to call Suyodhana a bad omen in years. The memory of those words had been buried long ago, but here he was, asking the question himself.

Yudhishthir and Sahadev were equally shocked, exchanging glances. They didn't understand why Suyodhana would say such a thing. They had no knowledge of what happened.

Bhishma remained silent, his expression unreadable. Gandhari and Shakuni stood frozen, unable to speak. They had never thought that those words would be spoken again, least of all by Suyodhana himself.

Seeing their silence, Suyodhana felt his heart break. His voice cracked as he turned towards his mother, the one person he thought would surely have an answer.

"Mata, tell me... am I... am I a bad omen?"

Before Gandhari could say anything, a voice came from behind. "No, Putra. Don't ever say that again. You are not a bad omen."

Everyone turned to see VIDUR, who had rushed over the moment he found out what had happened. He hadn't been there when Ashwa told the royal family, but he had hurried to the scene as soon as he learned what happened.

Tears filled Suyo's eyes as he looked at Vidur. "Then... Kakashree... why did Bhima say that? That I was named Duryodhana because I was a bad omen?"

Vidur looked away, feeling guilty. He never imagined that the words he had spoken years ago would come back like this, cutting so deeply into Suyo's heart. He couldn't even look Suyo in the eye as he spoke.

"Putra, it's true that when you were born... I... I was the one who called you a bad omen. But, Putra Suyodhana, I was wrong. You are not a bad omen. I was wrong in saying so and Adit-"

Before Vidur could say anything about Aditya, Bhishma interrupted. He stepped forward, placing a hand on Suyo's shoulder. His voice was firm but gentle. "You are not a bad omen, Putra. Never say those words again. Vidur and I were wrong. We have come to realize that it is not the omens of birth that define us, but the choices we make and the paths we choose. This truth applies to everyone - every child of Kuruvansh. Forgive us."

Suyo, visibly shaken, clenched his fists. He took a deep breath, steeling himself against the pain. "So, it's true... I was a bad omen..." he thought to himself.

Then Suyo said, "You all should go and find Bhima. I.... I want to be alone." With that, he began to leave.

His brothers instinctively moved to follow him, concerned about their Jyetsh. But Suyo raised his hand without turning back. "Go back. Do not follow me. I... I just want to be alone..."

The Kauravas, even though worried for their Jyesth, stopped. If their Jyesth said not to follow, then they would obey. They watched Suyo leave, even though their hearts ached to chase after him.

Gandhari, who had been silent, finally broke down, crying. Sushasana and other Kauravas rushed to their mother's side. Though blindfolded, the cloth around her eyes was damp, soaked with her tears. She had no words for her son, the pain in her heart was too deep for her to say anything.

Shakuni, the one who could manipulate any situation to his advantage, stood beside his sister, speachless. For once, there were no words, no schemes, nothing he could say to make this situation better. He simply held Gandhari consoling her.

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Suyo was walking aimlessly, not even knowing where he was going. He just wanted to get away, to be alone with his thoughts.

As he wandered, a soft, soothing melody reached his ears - a bansuri being played in the distance. The sound was gentle, almost as if it was calling to him. He paused, remembering the boy who had defended him earlier. Krishna. He recalled that Krishna has the bansuri in his hands.

"I didn't even thank him properly, Maybe I should go find him?" Suyo thought, turning towards the direction of the music.

Suyo followed the enchanting sound which led him to a quiet clearing, where under a large tree sat Krishna, playing his bansuri with his eyes closed. Balarama sat beside him, leaning against the tree.

Suyo stood there for a moment, unsure of how to approach, but Krishna, without even opening his eyes, smiled as if he already knew Suyo was there.

Setting the bansuri aside, Krishna finally opened his eyes, his gaze warm and inviting. Balarama glanced at Suyo and gave him a friendly nod.

Suyo hesitated before speaking. "Thank you."

Krishna tilted his head slightly, his smile curious. "Thank you? For what?"

"For earlier. You don't even know me, but you came and defended me. So... thank you." Suyo replied, feeling a weight lift off his chest.

Krishna chuckled softly. "I only spoke the truth, and the truth is on your side. There's nothing to thank me for."

Suyo just nods, unsure of what to say next. He sat down nearby, a little away from Krishna and Balarama, lost in thought.

"Am I really a bad omen?" he wondered aloud, his voice barely above a whisper.

Noticing Suyo sitting sad and thinking about something, Krishna leaned closer, though he already knew what exactly Suyo is thinking, he still asked. "Why do you look so sad, Suyodhana?"

Suyo's face fell. "I'm a bad omen, Krishna. When I was born-"

Before he could finish, Krishna burst into laughter, surprising Suyo.

"Why are you laughing?" Suyo asked, confused by Krishna's reaction.

Krishna shook his head, still chuckling. "Did you not notice the preparations? I heard the whole kingdom was celebrating someone's birthday. Was it not yours they are celebrating?"

Suyo frowned, his thoughts tangled. "Yes, they did it for me, but..."

"But what?" Krishna prodded, his eyes sparkling mischievously. "Do you really think that someone who brings misfortune would have an entire Kingdom celebrating his birth? No, Suyodhana. You are much more than what others say about you."

Suyo looked down, uncertainty still clouding his thoughts. "But... What if everyone keeps saying that I am a bad omen?"

Krishna's expression softened as he moved closer. His voice, gentle yet filled with wisdom, cut through the doubt in Suyo's heart. "People often judge based on what they see or hear, but the truth is not found in the words of others. Suyodhana, the circumstances of one's birth do not define who they are. It's not where you come from that matters, but what you choose to do and who you choose to become. That is what truly defines you."

Suyo blinked, taking in Krishna's words. Krishna continued, his voice filled with understanding. "If the circumstances of our birth determined our worth, then what of me? I am just a cowherd, but do you think that limits who I am or what I can do?"

Suyo slowly shook his head, his mind starting to clear.

Krishna smiled, nodding at Suyo's silent response. "Exactly. You are not bound by the fears or judgements of others. Your actions, your choices - that is what will speak of you."

Suyo pondered Krishna's words, a flicker of hope igniting in his chest. "You really believe that?"

Krishna smiled and replied. "I don't just believe it, Suyodhana. I know it."

For a few moments, they sat in silence. The weight of Krishna's words settled in Suyo's heart, comforting him in a way he hadn't expected. He took a deep breath, feeling a new sense of courage welling up inside him. Then, after a moment's hesitation, he turned to Krishna.

"Krishna, will you be my friend?"

Krishna titled his head playfully, pretending to be confused. "Why would you want to be friends with me? I'm just a cowherd."

Suyo smiled, his voice filled with sincerity as he answered. "Because you... you remind me that I'm more than what people say. You don't see me as a bad omen, and you speak to me as if you truly understand me. You make me feel... accepted. That's why I want to be your friend."

Krishna's playful expression softened into a smile. "Then, I gladly accept your friendship," he said, extending his hand.

Balarama glanced at the setting sun, noticing how late it had become. He turned to Suyo, his tone gentle but firm. "Suyodhana, it's getting late. You should head back to the palace before dark."

Suyo nodded, about to stand, but suddenly Krishna sighed dramatically and placed a hand on his stomach.

"Dau... I'm so hungry," Krishna said, exaggerating his distress. "Back at home in Vrindavan, I could eat all the makhan I wanted! But here, alas," he sighed again, his face falling into a deep frown, "I cannot..."

Balarama looked at his younger brother, half-amused, half-annoyed. "Here we go again," he muttered, leaning back against the tree.

Krishna placed his hand on his forehead with a dramatic flair. "Mahadev is cruel, Dau! He made the makhan out of my reach." His voice quivered as he continued, "If only... if only someone would help a poor, starving cowherd boy in this faraway land."

Suyo, now watching Krishna's entire act unfold, couldn't help but feel a mix of confusion and urgency. He immediately jumped to his feet. "Don't worry, Mitra! I can help!" he said, determination written on his face.

Krishna glanced up from his dramatic pose, one eye slightly open to see Suyo's reaction, but then he quickly returned to his exaggerated expression of despair. "How can you help? I'm just a simple cowherd boy. The palaces and chefs are far beyond my reach..."

"No, no!" Suyo exclaimed, grabbing Krishna's hand and pulling him up from the ground. "You can come to the palace with me! I'll tell the chefs to give you all the makhan you want! You'll never be hungry again."

Krishna looked up at Suyo with wide, innocent eyes, though a mischievous glint still flickered behind them. "Oh, but Suyo, I cannot go with you..." he sighed.

Suyo frowned. "But... I thought you were hungry?"

"I am," Krishna said, nodding. "But it is too much for me to walk all the way to the palace. Perhaps... perhaps you could bring the makhan here?"

Balarama, rolling his eyes, stifled a laugh. "Kanha, you are unbelievable."

Krishna looked at his brother, flashing a grin before turning back to Suyo. "Yes, yes, it is settled! You, my dear friend, will bring me the makhan here, where I can eat it in peace, under the tree."

Suyo blinked, surprised but quickly agreeing. "Alright! I'll bring it to you here!"

Krishna clapped his hands, the dramatic frown disappearing from his face in an instant. "Wonderful! But Mitra, make sure to ask for the finest makhan. And lots of it!"

Suyo nodded enthusiastically and was about to rush towards the palace when Krishna suddenly called out, "WAIT!"

Suyo turned around, confused. "What? Is something wrong?"

Krishna smiled, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Bring it tomorrow morning."

Suyo blinked, baffled. "But you said you were hungry now!"

Krishna placed his hand back on his forehead with even more dramatic flair than before. "Ah, yes, I am... but you see, Mitra, if I eat now, I won't be able to truly enjoy it! The night air is too cool, and the Makhan would just not taste right. It needs the warmth of the morning sun to bring out it's true flavor!"

Suyo stared at Krishna, trying to process the reasoning behind this. Balarama, on the other hand, chuckled, shaking his head at his brother's antics.

"But..." Suyo began, feeling a bit conflicted, "I could still bring some tonight..."

Krishna waved his hand as if dismissing the idea. "No, no, tomorrow will be perfect. Trust me, Mitra. The morning makhan is the best, the first batch, fresh and soft, just after the milk is churned. That is when it tastes the sweetest. If you bring it tomorrow, I can enjoy it in all its glory!"

Suyo, still a bit confused but eager to please his new friend, finally nodded. "Alright, tomorrow morning it is! I'll bring the best makhan to you here!"

With that, Suyo hurried off, determined to make sure Krishna got the finest makhan in the kingdom the next day.

As Suyo disappeared into the distance, Krishna leaned back against the tree, a mischievous smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Such a good friend, isn't he, Dau?"

Balarama chuckled, shaking his head. "You'll never change, Kanha. Always finding ways to get what you want."

Krishna winked at his brother. "Well, it's not every day you get to have a prince fetching you makhan, is it?"

But then, the lightness of the moment shifted. Balarama's expression grew serious as he straightened up from his relaxed position against the tree. "Alright, Kanha," he began, his voice now steady and more deliberate, "enough of this. Tell me, what are we really doing here in Hastinapur?"

Krishna remained silent, his mischievous smile fading as he met his brother's gaze.

Balarama continued, "You said you would only side with the one who isn't in Hastinapur. Yet, here we are. So, what is going on?"

Krishna leaned back again, the playful air around him now entirely gone. He looked at Balarama, his eyes filled with an unusual calm. "Dau, there is much you do not yet know."

Balarama's brow furrowed slightly. "Kanha, I know more than you think. I know... I know what happened..." His voice softened as he spoke, as if admitting something long kept inside. "But my knowledge is limited."

Krishna's eyes flashed with understanding. He could see that Balarama had grasped fragments of the truth, though not all of it.

"Kanha," Balarama said quietly, "I know enough to ask... why are we really here? What are you planning?"

Krishna's expression softened at his brother's earnestness. "Dau, you will find out everything tomorrow. For now, trust me, as you always have." he said gently.

Balarama frowned, clearly not satisfied. "You always do this, Kanha. You leave pieces of the puzzle for others to figure out, while you hold the full picture. Let me help you..."

Krishna smiled, placed a reassuring hand on Balarama's arm. "Dau, Tomorrow, all will be revealed. And when it is, YOU WILL UNDERSTAND WHY EVERYTHING HAS LED US HERE."

Balarama sighed but nodded. "Tomorrow then."

Krishna's smile widened, but there was a flicker of something unspoken in his eyes. "Tomorrow."

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In the grand hall of the Hastinapur palace, Ashwa sat with the Kauravas, quietly tending to their bruises. Though his hands worked steadily, his eyes kept drifting toward the entrance, waiting for Suyo. No one had given him a proper explanation of what had happened earlier - only that Bhima had slipped into the water, and Suyo was somehow blamed for it.

The usual lively chatter of the Kauravas had disappeared, replaced by a heavy silence. Unable to take the quiet any longer, Ashwatthama turned to Sushasana, his voice calm but questioning. "What happened? Why did you start the fight? Where did Suyo go?"

Before Dushasana could answer, the door opened, and Suyodhana walked in. Instantly, his brothers and Sushala rushed toward him. Sushala was the first to reach him, wrapping her arms tightly around him, tears streaming down her face.

"Jyesth!" she cried, her small body shaking with sobs. "I don't like them... Pandavas... they're mean! They hurt you, Jyesth... how could they..."

Suyodhana knelt down and gently patted her head. "It's alright, Sushala. Don't cry."

The other Kauravas gathered around, their faces showing the same anger as Sushala's.

Chitrasen spoke first, his voice full of frustration. "We don't like them either, Jyesth. They've only just arrived, and already... how could they speak to you like that?"

Sushasana added, his voice low and hurt, "Pitamah didn't even believe us! He always stood by us... but now, with the Pandavas here, it feels like we don't matter anymore. They're more important than we are."

Suyo stayed silent, letting his siblings voice their frustration. His eyes seemed distant, filled with his own thoughts. He understood their anger. His brothers, who had never known pain, now stood injured before him. And worse, thier Pitamah had first listened to the Pandavas before asking for his side of the story. Even though Bhishma apologized, that hurt still lingered.

Before Ashwa could ask more, Shakuni entered the room.

"Mere bache," Shakuni said, walking toward Suyodhana, his voice full of concern. "If you want, we can take care of this problem."

Suyo looked confused. "What do you mean, Mamashree?"

Shakuni smiled slyly and continued. "The Pandavas... they don't need to stay here. If you want, I can make sure they leave. They're causing all this trouble, aren't they? Why should you suffer because of them?"

Before Suyodhana could respond, Ashwa's voice cut through the room. "GandharRaj!!!" he snapped, his voice sharp, eyes blazing with anger. "What are you suggesting?"

Shakuni, unfazed by Ashwa's reaction, gave a shrug, his smirk still in place. "I'm just offering a solution."

Ashwatthama ignored him and turned to Suyodhana, speaking firmly. "Mitra Suyo, don't listen to this. This is not the way. You need to talk to the Pandavas and clear up whatever misunderstanding is between you. If you don't fix this now, it'll only get worse. Misunderstandings will fester, and who knows what will happen then."

Suyodhana stayed silent, torn between his Mamashree's words and Ashwatthama's advice. The room seemed to hold its breath, waiting for his decision.

Frustrated by Suyo's silence, Ashwa turned to the Kauravas. "What actually happened? Why did the fight start?"

The Kauravas exchanged uneasy glances before Vikarna finally spoke. "Bhima... Bhima called Jyesth Suyo a bad omen."

Ashwa froze, the shock clear on his face.

Sushasana, looking down, muttered, "We couldn't let that go, so we fought him."

The words "bad omen" echoed in Ashwa's mind, lighting a fire in him. His eyes darkened, and he stood abruptly, fists clenched.

"WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY?" Ashwa shouted, his voice booming through the room.

The Kauravas flinched, startled by his sudden rage. Even Suyodhana looked up, surprised by his friend's reaction. He had never seen Ashwa this angry - not even his own brothers had reacted so strongly.

Without saying another word, Ashwatthama stormed toward the door, his anger burning.

"Mitra Ashwa!" Suyodhana called after him, running to catch up. He grabbed Ashwa's arm, trying to stop him. "Wait! Where are you going?"

Ashwa didn't even look at him, pulling his arm free. "I'm going to them. How dare they say those words..."

Suyodhana hurried after him, desperate to stop him. "Mitra, wait!"

"I'll go clear the misunderstanding, when we find Bhima!" Suyodhana pleaded. "Bhima said he heard someone else say those words and just repeated them. I will talk to them, and clear this up, just like you said. But, Please, you don't do anything rash."

Ashwa stopped, trying to calm down his anger. Suyo's words slowly reached him. He turned and grabbed Suyodhana by the shoulders, his grip tight.

"Listen to me," Ashwatthama said, his voice serious. "You are not a bad omen. Do you hear me? You are NOT a bad omen!" Ashwa held his gaze for a moment longer, making sure the message sunk in.

Suyo nodded.

Then he let go. "Remember that," Ashwa repeated quietly.

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What happened to Bhima ?

Bhima took a step back, feeling the weight of his actions. But as he stepped back, his foot slipped on the wet grass near the riverbank. Before anyone could react, Bhima lost his balance and fell toward the river.

Suyo, acting quickly, reached out to grab Bhima's hand. His fingers just touched Bhima's wrist - but he missed. Bhima let out a startled cry as he fell into the river with a loud splash.

Deep under the water, Bhima's fate took an unexpected turn. The Nagas, the snake-like guardians of the river, sensed his presence and swiftly surrounded him. As they approached, Bhima instinctively fought against them.

In his desperation, he struggled against the Nagas, swinging his arms trying to break free. But the Nagas were too swift, their fangs sinking into his flesh. The pain shot through Bhima, and he felt his strength wane as their venom coursed through his veins. Before he could fight back further, he was unconscious.

When Bhima woke up, he found himself in the magical realm of the Nagas. Aryaka, a Naga chieftain and a relative on his mother's side, approached him. Aryaka recognized Bhima's divine heritage and took him to meet Vasuki, the king of the Nagas.

Vasuki, impressed by Bhima's potential, offered him a divine elixir. "Drink this, and you will gain the strength of a thousand elephants."

Bhima drank the eight pots of the elixir without hesitation. The powerful liquid worked through his body, but the strength it gave him was too overwhelming at first. Bhima soon passed out again, his body needing time to absorb the power.

The Nagas, realizing that Bhima needed to return to the human world, called out to the divine waters. It was then that Devi Ganga, the goddess of the river, appeared. Her presence was calming, and the Nagas showed her great respect.

"Let him rest in the waters," Devi Ganga said gently, "I will take him back to where he belongs." The Nagas carefully placed Bhima's unconscious body at the surface of the river, trusting Devi Ganga to take him to safety.

Devi Ganga gracefully carried Bhima through the river, her waters protecting him. She guided him to the riverbank, where Bhishma, waiting with concern. When Bhishma saw his mother, the river goddess, emerge with Bhima, he rushed forward.

"Mata..." Bhishma said, his voice filled with worry.

Devi Ganga gently laid Bhima on the ground and touched his forehead softly. "He is safe now," she reassured Bhishma. "Bhima fell into the river, but the Nagas saved him and gave him the strength of a thousand elephants. He will be stronger than ever when he wakes."

Bhishma nodded.

Devi Ganga looked at Bhishma with love but also seriousness. "Putra, you promised to protect Pandu's sons, and I know you will keep that promise," she began.

"But do not forget your promise to another."

Bhishma looked confused.

Devi Ganga's voice was gentle but firm. "Do you not remember Putra Karna also asked you to take care of his brothers? You must not treat them differently. Both the Pandavas and the Kauravas are your responsibility. Do not let your heart he clouded."

Bhishma's heart sank as he realized what his mother was saying. He had promised to protect both the Pandavas and the Kauravas, but his actions had leaned towards favoritism for the Pandavas. He had been more focused on the Pandavas, forgetting that the Kauravas were also under his care.

Devi Ganga saw her son understood what she is trying to say, continued. "Treat them equally, Putra. Both are your family, and both need your guidance. Remember, they are all children of Kuruvansh."

Bhishma nodded. He realized the truth in her advice, the balance he had failed to maintain.

With one last loving look at Bhima and her son, Devi Ganga disappeared into the waters, returning to her divine realm.

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The first rays of sunlight streamed through the palace windows as Suyo sat in the grand kitchen, watching the palace cooks churn fresh makhan. The soft, buttery aroma filled the air as the makhan was prepared, creamy and smooth, just as Krishna had requested. Suyo smiled to himself, excited to keep his promise to his new friend.

"Make sure you pack the finest makhan," Suyo instructed one of the palace servants. "IT'S FOR A VERY SPECIAL FRIEND."

The servant nodded, carefully placing the freshly made makhan into a beautifully wrapped pot. Suyo took the pot and held it close, feeling a sense of pride. "Krishna will be so happy," he thought.

Just as he was about to leave for the clearing where Krishna had played his bansuri the previous day, Yuyutsu came to Suyo, saying, "Bhrata Suyo, Pitamah is bringing Bhima back!"

Suyo froze, his heart skipping a beat.

"What should I do now? I promised Krishna I'd bring him the makhan, but Bhima... I should see him and clear the misunderstanding..." Suyo muttered.

Suyo stood there, he couldn't let Krishna down, not after the kindness Krishna had shown him. But Bhima was back, and Suyo needed to be there.

Just then, a familiar voice called out. "Mitra Suyo! What are you doing here so early?"

Suyo turned to see ASHWA, standing at the doorway. Relief flooded Suyo as an idea sparked in his mind.

"Mitra Ashwa!" Suyo called out, rushing over to him. "I need your help."

Ashwa raised an eyebrow, glancing at the pot in Suyo's hands. "Help? With what?"

Suyo held out the pot toward Ashwa. "I need you to take this makhan to my friend. His name is Krishna."

"Krishna?" Ashwa looked puzzled. "Who's Krishna?"

Suyo smiled, excitement bubbling up as he described his new friend. "He's the boy who helped me yesterday at the river. You'll recognize him easily - he's got a dark complexion, wears a peacock feather in his hair, and carries a bansuri with him. You'll find him in a clearing near the riverbank."

Ashwa looked at the pot of makhan and then back at Suyo. "You want me to take this to him?"

"Yes!" Suyo nodded eagerly. "I promised Krishna I'd bring him the finest makhan today. But now I have to go to Bhima. I can't break my promise to Krishna either, so please, can you do this for me?"

Ashwa considered it for a moment before smiling and taking the pot from Suyo's hands. "Alright, I'll take it to him. Don't worry, Mitra. I'll make sure your friend gets his makhan."

Suyo's face lit up. "Thank you, Mitra Ashwa!"

Ashwa said, "Don't worry about it. Just go see Bhima."

Suyo gave Ashwa a quick nod before dashing out of the kitchen.

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Meanwhile, Ashwa set off in the direction Suyo had told him, the pot of makhan held carefully in his hands. He made his way toward the clearing by the river. As he approached, the soft sound of a bansuri filled the air once more.

Just as Suyo had described, under a large tree sat Krishna, his dark complexion glowing in the morning light, the peacock feather in his hair swaying gently in the breeze. Krishna's eyes were closed as he played the bansuri, and Balarama sat beside him, watching the river.

Ashwa hesitated for a moment, but then he remembered Suyo's request. Taking a deep breath, he approached the two brothers.

Krishna opened his eyes slowly, a knowing smile already forming on his lips. "Ah, you must be Suyo's friend," he said, setting aside the bansuri. "Did he send you with my makhan?"

But Ashwa just stood there not answering, looking at the person beside Krishna.

It had been many years since he last saw him who Karna had called "Mitra," the man who had given names to all the Kauravas.

Ashwathama stopped in his tracks, eyes widening in recognition. "You... you're the same person who came to Karna eight years ago. The one who suggested the name Suyodhana..."

Mahadev with a knowing smile, said. "Yes, Ashwathama, you remember well."

Ashwathama approached cautiously. "Karna called you Mitra, but... who are you, really? Why did you come back?"

Krishna was about to answer Ashwa's questions, but Mahadev immediately took the makhan pot from Ashwa and gave it to Krishna before he could speak.

Krishna looked at Mahadev, confused, as if asking, "Aaradhya, I did not even do anything yet for Ashwathama to trust you... Then why are you giving me makhan?"

Mahadev looked at Krishna as if saying, "Last time I talked to Ashwathama in riddles, my wife got angry with me. Now if you talk with him in riddles, it is I who will get punished."

Krishna smiled as if asking, "So you will not come between me and my makhan from now?"

Mahadev nodded as if saying, "Just go there and silently eat your makhan, not a word from your mouth."

Krishna laughed and happily sat down to eat his makhan, leaving Mahadev to deal with Ashwa alone.

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Mahadev motioned for Ashwa to sit beside him. Ashwa hesitated for a moment but then complied, sitting down.

Mahadev revealed his true self - all his divine glory. Ashwa's eyes widened in awe and realization. "You... are... Mahadev..." he said, feeling a mix of respect and fear.

Mahadev smiled gently. "Ashwathama, I should have explained myself more clearly back then. You were still young, and there are some truths that a child cannot fully grasp. But now you are older, and it is time for you to understand what I meant."

Ashwa frowned. "Mahadev, what do you mean? I still don't understand."

Mahadev continued. "It is time for you to witness the truth I spoke of years ago."

Without further words, Mahadev extended his hand, and the world around them began to shift. The peaceful riverbank faded, transforming into a vast battlefield.

Ashwa found himself standing beside Mahadev on a desolate, barren battlefield - KURUKSHETRA.

In front of him were vast armies. On one side stood a group of warriors - five men, with Krishna as a charioteer. On the other side stood a larger group led by one man, among them, he recognized Bhishma, his father Dronacharya and Shakuni.

Ashwa could feel the tension in the air. The warriors before him were preparing to fight to the death.

Ashwa turned to Mahadev, confused he asked. "Mahadev... Is this the war between brothers you warned me about?"

Mahadev nodded. "Yes, Putra. This is the war I spoke of - the war between brothers, cousins, family. A war that will witness great valor, tragic losses..."

Ashwa stared at the battlefield in disbelief. "How could this happen... How can they come to the point where they would stand here ready to fight?"

Mahadev placed his hand gently on Ashwa's shoulder. "To understand this, you must see the events that led them here... to this war... Watch closely, Putra."

As Mahadev extended his hand, the scene shifted, and Ashwa found himself witnessing a series of visions.

Ashwa saw Gandhari being married to Dhritarashtra, her eyes blindfolded. Shakuni's hatred for Hastinapur growing as he watched his sister live in sorrow. Gandhari's suffering worsened when after years of waiting she struck her stomach in anguish and gave birth to a mass of flesh, which was eventually divided into 101 children. Her first born Duryodhana, as a bad omen. "The child born under ill stars," they called him. This was the moment Duryodhana's destiny of conflict began, his name itself a mark of misfortune.

Next, the vision changed as Ashwa saw Kunti, placing her newborn son, Karna with Kavach Kundals in a basket and sent down the river. He was found and raised by Adhirath and Radha as their son, growing up as a Sut Putra, facing insults and struggles, all while his true identity remained hidden from him.

The vision shifted again, showing Pandu's life in forest and his death, leaving behind a grieving family. Kunti returned to Hastinapur with her sons the Pandavas returned to Hastinapur, where they began living alongside the Kauravas. This return set the stage for the bitter rivalry that would tear the family apart.

Ashwa then witnessed Bhima bullying Kauravas during their childhood. Duryodhana's anger grew. Shakuni began to poison Duryodhana's mind, convincing him that Bhima had to be dealt with. He watched as Bhima was poisoned and thrown into the river, only to be saved by the Nagas and granted immense strength. This event marked the beginning of Duryodhana's deep-seated resolve to destroy the Pandavas.

The scene shifted again, showing both the Pandavas and the Kauravas learning under their great teacher, Dronacharya, his father. Ashwa saw Arjun quickly become the favorite student, mastering archery like no other. Duryodhana, filled with envy, grew more determined to defeat his cousins.

Ashwa's eyes fell on Karna. He too trained under Dronacharya but was often looked down upon because of his status as a charioteer's son. The tension between Karna and Arjun began here, as Karna sought to prove himself Arjun's equal - or better.

The vision then showed a desperate Karna as Ashwa witnessed Karna lying to Bhagwan Parashuram that he is a Bhramin. When Parashurama discovered the deception, his wrath led to a terrible curse: Karna would forget his most crucial skills when he needed them most. Another curse followed when Karna accidentally killed a cow, and its owner cursed him further, sealing his tragic fate.

The vision shifted once more,Ashwa saw Duryodhana standing before Karna, offering him the kingdom of Anga and making him a king during Kala Pradarshan. Karna's gratitude and loyalty to Duryodhana were sealed forever. This friendship would later play a crucial role in the events leading to war.

The vision then shifted to a dark plot where Ashwa saw the plot to burn the Pandavas alive at Varnavrat. But the Pandavas, along with their mother Kunti, escaped the the fiery trap set by Duryodhana and Shakuni, leaving behind the charred remains of an illusion that made it seem as though they had perished.

The scene changed to the swayamwar of Draupadi. Ashwa witnessed Karna being insulted by Draupadi for being a Sut Putra, denying him the chance to compete for her hand. Arjun, disguised as a Bhramin, won Draupadi's hand but she ended up marrying all five Pandavas.

The vision shifted again, showing the infamous dice game, the most brutal scene. Ashwa saw the Dyut Sabha, where the Pandavas lost everything, including Draupadi, who was dragged into the court and humiliated and nearly disrobed in front of everyone. Karna's harsh words, calling Draupadi a woman with many husbands, deserving of such treatment.

Next Ashwa saw the vision of the Pandavas being sent into exile for 13 years, the final year to be spent in hiding. Revenge growing within the Pandavas, especially Draupadi. The exile was a deep wound, one that would eventually lead them back to reclaim what was theirs by right.

Finally, the vision ended back on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, the same scene Ashwa had witnessed earlier - warriors on both sides, ready for battle, with Krishna as Arjun's charioteer.

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Suddenly, the vision faded, and Ashwathama found himself back at the clearing, sitting beside Mahadev. The intensity of what he had seen still clung to him, his breath shallow, his mind racing with confusion and disbelief. He stared at Mahadev, his voice heavy with uncertainty.

"What was that...?"

Mahadev remained silent, watching Ashwa as he processed everything he had just witnessed.

Mahadev with a smile said, "What you saw are the significant events that are meant to happen.... Events that, if left unchanged, would eventually lead to the war."

Ashwa, recalling his discussions with Karna, slowly nodded. "Karna's visions... He and I came to the conclusion that the visions Karna see are of significant events as well."

Mahadev smiled slightly, acknowledging Ashwa's insight. "Yes, Putra. Gandhari's vision, the one Karna saw, never came to pass. His presence itself stopped that moment from happening. His vision of Pandu - he altered it. And Suyodhana.... He tried, but some paths are harder to change than others."

Slowly, ASHWA REALISED SOMETHING.

WHAT HE SAW IN THE VISION DOESN'T MATCH WITH THE PRESENT.

Mahadev remained silent, only smiling gently, allowing Ashwathama to figure things out on his own.

Ashwa's confusion grows. Even if Karna had changed these events, there were still too many inconsistencies that didn't add up.

"But... I don't understand..." Ashwa muttered trying to piece everything together.

"WHY IS MITRA KARNA CALLED A SUT PUTRA WHEN HE IS A SURYAPUTRA?"

"And WHY DOES MITRA KARNA CALL SUYO HIS FRIEND AND NOT HIS BROTHER?" Ashwa frowned, the bond between Karna and Suyo confusing him even more. "THEY ARE BROTHERS! HOW COULD THAT BE?"

"And WHY IS MITRA KARNA MADE KING OF ANGA WHEN HE IS ALREADY YUVRAJ OF HASTINAPUR? THE RIGHTFUL HEIR TO THE THRONE. IT MAKES NO SENSE!" Ashwa asked

He paused, the confusion mounting. "And WHY DOES MITRA KARNA RECEIVE A CURSE FROM BHAGAWAN PARASHURAMA? WHY WOULD HE LIE THAT HE IS A BHRAMIN... AND THE CURSE FOR KILLING A COW? HE WAS NEVER CURSED! HE WAS GRANTED A BOON FOR SAVING A COW!"

"EVERYTHING ABOUT MITRA KARNA IS JUST WRONG...." Ashwa's voice trembled as he finally admitted his deepest confusion. "HE WOULD NEVER SAY THOSE WORDS TO A WOMAN... HE WOULD NEVER HUMILIATE SOMEONE LIKE THAT... THAT'S NOT MITRA KARNA!"

Ashwa's voice trailed off, as he looked at Mahadev, overwhelmed by the number of unanswered questions in his mind. He couldn't understand how all these events could be so drastically different from the present reality he knew.

His eyes filled with desperation as he finally turned to Mahadev, pleading for clarity.

"Mahadev... please... I don't understand. What happened with Mitra Karna? How could all of this be so different? What is the truth?"

Ashwa stood, waiting for answers, his heart racing, hoping Mahadev could provide the clarity he so desperately sought.

Mahadev smiled knowingly, watching as Ashwathama asked his questions.

"WHAT I SHOWED YOU IS NOT WHAT WILL HAPPEN..." Mahadev began, his voice calm and steady. "BUT WHAT HAS ALREADY HAPPENED."

Ashwa's eyes widened as realization dawns on him. "What... already... happened?"

"KARNA'S VISIONS ARE NOT JUST GLIMPSES OF THE FUTURE BUT REFLECTIONS OF THE PAST," Mahadev explained.

"HE SEES NOT JUST WHAT WILL BE, BUT WHAT ONCE WAS AS WELL."

Ashwa stood silent for a moment, confusion clouding his face. HOW COULD KARNA SEE THE PAST? THEY HAD THOUGHT THE VISIONS WERE WARNINGS OF WHAT WAS TO COME.

Mahadev, noticing his confusion, spoke again, his voice patient. "Yes, Putra, for now, Karna can see significant events from the past - what has already happened. These visions will guide him as he attempts to change the fate of those who suffered. With time, Karna will also gain the ability to see the future."

Ashwa, still grappling with the enormity of what Mahadev was saying, furrowed his brows. "But... how can this happen? How can he change what has already happened?"

Mahadev continued, his gaze distant, as though looking beyond the present. "THE KALA CHAKRA HAS TURNED BACK TO WHERE IT ALL BEGAN, GIVING KARNA A CHANCE TO CHANGE EVERYTHING."

Ashwa blinked in disbelief, the weight of the revelation sinking in. "But... WHY KARNA?" he asked, struggling to understand why his friend had been chosen for such a monumental task.

MAHADEV DID NOT ANSWER ASHWA'S QUESTION. HIS SILENCE WAS HEAVY, FILLED WITH MEANING. HE SIMPLY SMILED - A SMILE THAT HELD SECRETS YET TO BE REVEALED.

Ashwa hesitated, the weight of the question that is haunting him since he saw the vision. HE FEARED THE ANSWER BUT NEEDED TO KNOW.

Finally, with a trembling voice, he asked, "Is... Mitra Karna abando... abandoned... Mata Gandhari... Radha Ma... The woman... who abandoned Karna in the vision... WHO IS HIS MOTHER...?"

Mahadev's expression softened, and he looked at Ashwa with deep understanding. But instead of answering, he stood up, leaving the question hanging in the air, a mystery yet to be revealed.

Mahadev smiled at Ashwa, "Putra, This is not something I can fully explain now. Some truths must be discovered on your own, in time."

As Mahadev prepared to leave, Ashwa called out, "Wait! Mahadev, Will we be able to stop this war? Can Mitra Karna and I change what you've shown me?"

Mahadev turned back at Ashwa, his eyes filled with ancient wisdom. "That is something you and Karna must discover together. As Karna is changing the events, the present changes, and the future changes as well. But remember, not all wars are fought with weapons. Some are fought with hearts and minds. Be by Karna's side, Putra Ashwathama, as you have been till now. KARNA CHOOSE YOU. I am sure together, you both may be able to shift the course of destiny."

With that, Mahadev vanished, leaving Ashwathama deep in thought, the weight of the revelations settling on his shoulders.

Ashwa looked around and noticed Krishna and Balarama watching him. But as his gaze fell on Krishna, he noticed the peacock feather on his head. A chill ran down his spine as he recognised Krishna as the charioteer he had seen in the vision of the war, the one guiding the fated battle between brothers.

Without saying a word, Ashwa turned away leaving the clearing. The world around him blurred as he walked away.

Balarama, standing beside Krishna, felt the weight too. Though the vision has been shown to Ashwa, Balarama also remembered what had happened before the Kala chakra turned back, before the cycle reset. "Dau, let's go back... Our work is done here." Krishna said as he watched Ashwa leave and then quietly spoke to Balarama, "Enimity between brothers will start soon... I hope Ashwa can atleast stop that to some extent... until Karna returns."

Balarama hearing this said, "Kanha, they are still children. If we stop them from becoming enemies now, we can prevent all this from happening. Everything will be fine! Let's go, we must stop them before it is too late!"

Krishna doesn't move. His eyes remain distant, as if seeing something beyond the present moment. His stillness only frustrated Balarama further.

"Kanha! Don't just stand there. You're letting it happen! Last time... you tried to stop the war by offering peace, but it was already too late. At least now there's time. Let's stop this now." Balarama urged, his frustration rising.

Krishna closed his eyes briefly, But still, he did not move. His voice, calm and resigned, he spoke of something greater than what Balarama could fully grasp.

"I cannot interfere, Dau." Krishna said softly, then turned away, "We should go back."

Balarama raising his voice, "No, Kanha, you have to! I will not see my student die again... This time... this time... we have a chance... there's still time! Let's stop this while we still can."

Krishna turned back to Balarama, his eyes filled with the weight of knowledge and destiny. His voice, though gentle, carried a divine truth.

"I cannot interfere, Dau." Krishna said, his words final yet filled with sorrow.

Balarama stared at him, confused, searching for answers. "Why, Kanha? Why can't you interfere now, when there's still time to prevent the war?"

Krishna looked down, knowing the chains of fate that bound him. "Because, Dau... KARNA CHOSE ASHWATHAMA, NOT ME. THAT WAS THE CONDITION - I CANNOT INTERFERE - UNTIL KARNA HIMSELF ASKS ME."

Though Balarama did not fully understand the depth of Karna's choice, he knows now that Krishna's hands are tied by a force greater than any brotherly love or desire to stop the inevitable.

Balarama quietly said. "But they are still children, Kanha..."

Krishna softly said. "They are, Dau. But the seeds of war have already been sown."

Balarama looked away, troubled. He knew that the future is uncertain now.

And Krishna, the one who sees everything, can do nothing but watch as fate unfolds.

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FLASHBACK - KURUKSHETRA, DAY 17

The red sun hung low, casting long shadows over the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The land, soaked in blood, seemed to mourn the lives lost in the war.

Amidst the chaos stood KARNA.

Across from him, stood ARJUN WITH HIS BOW, GANDIVA, DRAWN, WAITING FOR THE MOMENT TO RELEASE HIS DEADLY ARROW.

Karna, his voice heavy with the burden of fate, called out to Arjun. "I am unarmed, Arjun. My chariot wheel is stuck. Do you not see? Is this how you wish to win?"

Sri Krishna, with divine insight into the past and future spoke to Arjun. "Now, Parth, release your arrow. Do not hesitate, for the time has come."

Let's continue in the next chapter 😜

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To be continued...

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How was the chapter? Please give your feedback!!!

DID YOU EXPECT THIS PLOT TWIST 😁

So for now, what Karna sees is actually the past not the future...

If you read again then even when Mahadev showed Devi Ganga the vision of Karna, "he never said What he showed is the future of Karna" to Ganga's question "will this happen..." And it was Karna who came to a conclusion that he can see the future.

Just for clarification, The events will repeat itself unless changed so if Karna does not stop what he sees in his visions then everything will repeat and war will happen just like it has before Kala chakra is turned.

But if Karna does change everything then he will face unknown challenges which will happen because of the changes. Which will lead to the war as well, but not for Kingdoms or between Pandavas or Kauravas...

Don't forget to vote if you haven't for the chapters written so far!!!