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FLASHBACK — KURUKSHETRA, DAY 17

As the sun dipped low on the seventeenth day of the battle, casting a blood-red glow across Kurukshetra, the battlefield lay soaked with the blood of warriors. The earth seemed to mourn the countless lives lost in the war.

KARNA stood in the midst of this chaos, his chariot wheel hopelessly stuck in the mud, as if held by fate itself. He knew, in his heart, that this was his end.

Across from him stood ARJUN, ready for the final strike. His bow, Gandiva, drawn, with an arrow aimed directly at Karna.

Karna's voice was heavy as he called out to his old rival or should he say brother? "I am unarmed, Arjun. My chariot wheel is stuck. Do you not see? Is this how you wish to win?"

Krishna, calm and knowing, softly spoke to Arjun. "Now is the time, Parth. Release your arrow. Do not hesitate."

Arjun's hands trembled slightly as he gripped the bowstring. He stared at Karna, but Krishna's words echoed in his mind, urging him to act. Taking a deep breath, Arjun pulled the bowstring back, his arrow aimed straight at Karna's neck.

Karna, realizing his death was near, looked around the battlefield. Chaos and death surrounded him - the screams of wounded soldiers, overturned chariots, frightened horses. It was a scene of utter devastation.

Finally, Karna's eyes landed on Krishna - the charioteer, the one orchestrating it all.

Karna's lips moved, but no sound came out. One word, barely a whisper, escaped him. "WHY?"

NO ELSE HEARD IT.

BUT THE WORD REACHED KRISHNA'S EARS LIKE A SCREAM.

In that moment, time itself seemed to stop. The battlefield fell silent. Arrows halted mid-air, swords froze mid-swing. It was as if the entire universe had paused, waiting.

Only two figures moved - Krishna and Karna.

Krishna stepped down from the chariot. His eyes met Karna's as he approached, knowing this was a moment beyond the war itself, a moment that would echo beyond lifetimes.

Karna's voice trembled with frustration, as he spoke. "Why, Govind? Why do you ask Arjun to kill me now, when I am unarmed and my chariot wheel is stuck? Is this how Dharma is served?"

Krishna spoke, his voice carried the weight of truth. "Radheya, was it dharma when Abhimanyu was killed, surrounded and unarmed? Or was it dharma when Draupadi was humiliated in the Kuru court, and no one, spoke against it? The laws of war, of life, have been broken many times before, by both sides. And now you question Dharma when it comes to your life?"

Karna let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head. "So this is it? After everything... after everything I have faced in life... After all the struggles... the battles I've fought, not just here... but throughout my life... This is how it ends? This is my fate? Why Govind? Why must my life end like this?"

Krishna listened patiently. There was nothing more that needed to be said, not yet. But his silence held the weight of knowing. His expression carried the burden of the truth, a truth only Karna would understand in this moment.

Karna's eyes wandered to his chariot, the wheel still hopelessly stuck in the earth. He sighed deeply. "My whole life has been like this chariot, hasn't it? Broken and Unable to move forward... Struck between two worlds... never truly belonging to either."

Karna just stood there, feeling the weight of his fate pressing down upon him. He clenched his fists, unable to contain the storm of emotions swirling inside him. The turmoil in his heart became unbearable under Krishna's calm and steady presence.

Seeing Karna's distress, Krishna stepped closer, his voice gentle. "I am here to listen, Radheya. Speak what is in your heart. Let it out."

Karna looked at Krishna, and asked. "Where do I even begin, Govind?"

Krishna's gaze full of understanding. "Begin with the truth that lies within you, Radheya. Speak from your heart. It is in these unguarded moments that we find clarity. When you let go of what you have carried for so long, only then can you understand the burden of your own destiny."

FINALLY, IN THE FACE OF HIS DEATH, THE DAM OF HIS SOUL BROKE.

Karna's voice trembled, then grew louder, the pain in his heart pouring out with each word.

"All my life.... I have been shackled by something I had no control over... my birth. I was born as a Suryaputra, son of Suryadev... yet I was abandoned before I even opened my eyes.

Rajmata Kunti, my own mother, discarded me like I was nothing. Tell me Govind... how can a mother leave her child in a basket... floating down a river?

What was I to her? A mistake? A burden? A sin?

What was my crime? Why was I punished before I even opened my eyes?"

Karna's voice grew louder, the lifelong pain surfacing in every word.

"Why was I deemed unworthy of my own mother's love? She never searched for me.... never looked back... not even once.

All those years... she lived her life raising the sons she kept — my brothers. She raised them — Yudhisthir, Bhima, Arjun... She raised even Nakul, Sahadev... while I... I was left to the mercy of fate, to fend for myself in a world that despised me."

His voice cracked with the bitterness.

"What was my fault in all of this? That I was born? That I existed?

Why did I deserve to be abandoned? Why was I denied the life that was rightfully mine by birth, as a Kshatriya, as a prince?

Govind.... Am I so unworthy?"

Karna paused, his fists clenched, the anger and sorrow flooding his soul.

"But despite that cruel beginning, I was given love...."

His voice softened as he remembered the two people who gave him more than the world ever had.

"Radha ma and Adhirath baba... they were my true parents. They gave me a home, raised me with all the love they had, even though I was not their own. In their eyes, I was their son.

BUT.... no matter how much they loved me... the world... the world never let me forget what I was... The world always reminded me of my place.

I was never Karna, the warrior... I was always Karna, the sut-putra — the son of a charioteer.

That was the identity they gave me, and it crushed me every single day."

He looked at Krishna, his eyes filled with unspoken agony, his voice bitter.

"When I went to Dronacharya, when I stood before him, eager to learn, to prove myself as a warrior. What did he do? He taught me only what a charioteer needed to know. He never fully taught me... not because of my abilities, but because I was the son of a charioteer. I was deemed unworthy."

His voice was low, filled with regret as he spoke of his Gurudev.

"So I lied.... I disguised myself as a Brahmin to learn from Bhagawan Parashurama.

It was the only way I could think of...

And for that lie... I was cursed.

Cursed to forget everything I had learned in the moment I needed it the most.

Govind... Was it wrong to seek knowledge that was denied to me?"

Karna's heart ached as he continued,

"Why I was born as a Devputra, a Suryaputra, but lived as a sut-putra? A prince, yet treated as though I didn't even deserve to stand among the warriors."

Tears welled up in Karna's eyes as he spoke of the Pandavas - his brothers by birth - and the cruel twist of fate that made them enemies.

"All this time, I was not just a sut-putra... I was a Suryaputra... a Devputra... a brother to the very men I have fought my whole life.

But no one told me...

No one thought I had the right to know...

My own birth mother hid the truth from me, even when I stood before her."

Karna's voice broke as he recalled Kunti's visit. The image of Kunti, filled his mind. He could still hear her voice, not as the loving mother but as as the woman who had only come to him for her legitimate sons.

"And when she finally came to me... She didn't come as my mother... She came as a queen, begging me to spare her other sons. She did not come for me.... She came for them...

I wasn't her son... Govind... I was a shield to protect them.

She wanted me to betray the only man who ever saw me for who I am."

His voice softened as he spoke of the one person who had accepted him, his friend.

"Duryodhana... When everyone else turned me away, it was Duryodhana who offered me his hand. He may have his flaws, but he was the only one who ever accepted me for who I was. He saw me not as a sut-putra, but as a warrior, as his friend. He gave me the respect no one else ever did.

And for that... I GAVE HIM MY LOYALTY."

Finally, Karna looked at Krishna, his heart full of questions, his soul searching for answers.

"Why now?

Why, after living my whole life in darkness, do I finally find out the truth when it's too late to change anything?

Why, after living my whole life as a sut-putra, I find out that I am a Suryaputra?

Why, Govind...

Why am I wrong to fight for Duryodhana? Why should I betray my friend? Why am I wrong to choose my friend over my birthright that I never knew existed?

Why am I wrong to choose the mother who accepted me, raised me, over the one who abandoned me?

Why am I wrong to stand with the brother, who stood by me when no else did, instead of the brothers who insulted me all my life?

WAS THIS MY FATE, GOVIND?

WAS THIS ALL... JUST... MY FATE?"

Karna's voice trailed off, his breath coming in ragged gasps, his heart heavy with the pain of a lifetime's worth of injustice, unanswered questions and bitter truths that mocked his very existence, questioning everything he had ever fought for.

Krishna, who had been silent all this time, he let Karna's words linger in the air, allowing Karna's pain, anger, and confusion to settle like dust after a storm.

"RADHEYA," Krishna finally spoke, his voice was gentle and compassionate that seemed to embrace Karna's every wound.

"Your questions are not born from the war outside but from the war within you. A war you've fought your entire life. And I understand your pain, it is not an easy burden to bear.

But life, is not a single path paved by destiny alone — it is a complex weave of choices, both ours and those of others. Fate and free-will, both intertwine, creating the very life we live."

Krishna stepped closer, his gaze never leaving Karna's, as he answered his first question.

"You ask why Kunti Bua left you, why she abandoned you on the riverbank before you even opened your eyes. The answer to that lies not in your unworthiness, but in her fear.

Bua was bound by fear and the judgment of society. She was young, and acted not out of hatred for you but out of helplessness. In that moment, she did not have the strength to defy the world.

But remember, Radheya, you were never unloved. Suryadev blessed your life, and the universe sent you to Radha and Adhirath, who loved you as their own. The circumstances were beyond your control, but that did not diminish your value or your destiny."

Krishna paused, his eyes softening as he saw the anguish still lingering in Karna's eyes.

"You ask if you are unworthy. But Radheya, your worth is not determined by the choices of others, but by the choices you make. You have risen above the circumstances of your birth, claiming your place in this world through courage and loyalty. That is what truly defines you, not the actions of a mother who, in her fear, could not see the warrior you would become."

Krishna stepped forward, as he spoke. "Guru Dronacharya failed to see the warrior within you because of his own biases. He saw you only through the lens of societal norms.

You always wanted to learn, to rise above your circumstances, and in that desire, you showed your true spirit as a Kshatriya. Your journey to Mahendra Giri, to Bhagawan Parashurama, was born from the determination to break free from the chains of your birth.

You ask why you were cursed by Bhagawan Parashurama. But Radheya, the curse was not because of your birth. The curse was a result of deception — not the deception of others, but the one you placed upon yourself.

You chose to hide your identity to gain knowledge, and the universe often demands honesty as the price for true wisdom. Yet even then, the curse is simply another trial, not the end of your journey."

Krishna continued, "Radheya, you ask, why the truth comes now. The truth arrives when it is meant to, not when we wish it to. It is a part of your journey, one that has shaped you into the warrior you are today. Had you known the truth earlier, you would have been faced with choices that might have altered everything. Perhaps for better, perhaps for worse. The revelations may seem late, but they come with the strength to bear them."

"As for your brothers, the Pandavas, and your birthright as a prince, the truth was hidden from you, yes. But it was hidden because Bua feared the consequences of that revelation. Not only for you but for everyone involved. The world is not always kind, Radheya. To reveal your true identity would have sparked flames of conflict long before this war.

It could have saved you from some of the sorrows you faced, but it may have also created different sorrows — sorrows you cannot see. LIFE IS NEVER AS SIMPLE AS KNOWING THE TRUTH OR LIVING THE TRUTH. THE TRUTH OFTEN CARRIES ITS OWN BURDENS."

Krishna's voice grew softer now, as if he were speaking directly to Karna's soul.

"Radheya, you ask why fate was so cruel to you, why your life was filled with pain and rejection.

But understand this: fate never intended to crush you, it only tested you.

You were not born to be a victim of circumstance. You were born to rise above it. You are not defined by your birth, or by the title of 'Sut-Putra' or 'Suryaputra' but you are defined by your choices and your character."

Krishna paused once more, his gaze steady, unwavering.

"And finally, Radheya, you ask if this is just your fate. You are looking at your life as a series of injustices, as if fate has only conspired against you.

But I tell you this: LIFE IS NOT MEASURED BY HOW IT BEGINS OR HOW IT ENDS, BUT BY HOW IT IS LIVED.

Your struggles, your battles, they were not in vain. Every choice, every betrayal, every moment you spent in darkness has led you to this very point, every moment of your existence has shaped you as the man you are today."

Krishna stepped back, his voice now filled with the weight of cosmic truth. "RADHEYA, YOU ARE, AND ALWAYS HAVE BEEN, A SON OF DESTINY. BECAUSE DESTINY IS NOT A PATH SET IN STONE. IT IS SHAPED BY OUR CHOICES, AND THOSE CHOICES DEFINE WHO WE ARE, NOT THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF OUR BIRTH."

Karna looked at Krishna confused that Krishna has answered all the questions expect the ones related to Duryodhana, but before he could ask —

Krishna's voice grew firm but remained gentle as he spoke of Karna's loyalty to Duryodhana. "You ask if you are wrong to fight for Duryodhana. No, you are not wrong.

Duryodhana gave you what no one else did — recognition, respect, and a place in this world. Duryodhana's friendship with you is genuine. He never saw you as a Sut-Putra, he saw your worth, not your birth. For that, your loyalty to him is justified."

Krishna paused again, his eyes softening as he spoke.

"Choosing Duryodhana, choosing to be Radheya, is a choice made from the heart. It is not wrong to stand with those who welcomed you, who honored you."

"But..." Krishna said.

Krishna's gaze locked onto Karna, the corners of his mouth curling into a knowing smile as he sensed the turmoil swirling within Karna.

"I offer you one last chance... Come to the side of Dharma. Join the Pandavas — your brothers, they deserve a chance to serve their Jyesth."

Krishna watched as Karna clenched his fists at that suggestion, his anger bubbling just beneath the surface.

"How could Krishna even propose such a betrayal after everything?" Karna thought.

"Just like I said before, you will be known as Suryaputra, a prince with the right to rule. After this war, you will be the Samrat of Aryavrat."

Krishna leaned closer, his voice smooth as silk. "Those very brothers who once insulted you, will respect you once they know the truth. You would be their Jyesth Bhrata, the eldest among them. Wouldn't that be something?"

A sly smile crept onto Krishna's lips as he continued, watching the fire ignite in Karna's eyes. With every word, Krishna aimed to provoke a reaction, questioning Karna's loyalty.

"But…"

He let the word hang in the air, letting anticipation build before delivering the final blow.

"Leave Duryodhana..."

"How can Krishna suggest such a thing? Duryodhana was my friend, and I would never turn my back on Duryodhana." Karna thought.

Krishna's tone turned sharp, his gaze unwavering. "Radheya, loyalty is a noble quality, but it can also be a double-edged sword. Ask yourself — does Duryodhana hold the same loyalty for you? He has used you, Radheya. He has seen your worth, yes, but only as a weapon against your 'brothers'."

With each word of Krishna, Karna's anger rise.

Krishna spoke with calculated intent, to provoke Karna's emotions further.

"You deserve more than to be a mere pawn in Duryodhana's game. If Duryodhana finds out that you are a Kaunteya, would he still see you as a friend or would he see you as the eldest brother of Pandavas — his enemy?"

The provocation was clear now, and Krishna watched Karna's face flush with anger.

Krishna continued, his voice softening yet again. "Duryodhana will not hesitate to use your birth... to insult you... to manipulate you against your own blood. Can you truly trust him? Is he worthy of your loyalty...?"

Karna looked at Krishna with disbelief.

Krishna smiled, the corners of his lips barely hiding his satisfaction. He knew he had stirred the volcano of Karna's emotions - not because he expected Karna to abandon Duryodhana, but because this was the final test of Karna's loyalty.

Karna's face flushed with anger, and he felt the urge to defend his friend, to reaffirm the bond that no one, not even Krishna, could sever.

Looking straight into Krishna's eyes, he declared, "Govind, you can try to turn me against my friend, but you will only fail. I will never regret choosing Duryodhana. Even if I were asked again, a thousand times over, I would make the same choice. And if you were to ask Duryodhana, he would say the same."

He paused, his voice steady but questioning. "You ask me to join the Pandavas, as if that would somehow restore balance. But, I will always stand by Duryodhana, not because I am blind to his flaws, but because he is my friend. This war is not just his doing. Tell me, Govind, is Duryodhana truly the sole reason for this war? Are the Pandavas so innocent?"

A bitter laugh escaped Karna's lips, sarcasm dripping from his words. "This war, this Mahabharata, is not the fault of one man. No, this is the result of everyone's choices!"

Karna gestured towards the battlefield, where the dead and dying scattered across the blood-soaked land.

"Look around, Govind. This is the outcome of each of our actions. Duryodhana may be flawed, but tell me, who among us is without flaw except you? The Pandavas, the Kauravas, the elders — all of us, even me, every single one of us contributed to this chaos. Shall we begin to lay bare the faults of each one?"

Karna's tone shifted as he spoke of each elder.

"Mahamahim Bhishma... Pitamah.... He saw the rivalry growing between the Pandavas and the Kauravas — between my brothers. Yet, instead of addressing it, he showed a clear preference for the Pandavas, guiding them, offering them counsel, and always siding with them in disputes. And why? Because of his blind adherence to dharma, because Pandavas were 'righteous,' and Kauravas... merely the sons of Dhritarashtra. But did he not see the greater duty, Govind? His vow was to serve the throne — which means serving the kingdom, the people, all of Hastinapur, not just favoring one side. Yet, he stood there, silently watching, letting his favoritism fester the divide, while Hastinapur crumbled from within. His silence, and his bias, has cost us all."

His voice turned colder, "Mahamantri Vidur… he sealed Duryodhana's fate long before this war began. He called Duryodhana a bad omen the moment he was born. Tell me, Govind... How could a newborn be a bad omen? How could Duryodhana grow into anything but hatred when his own family rejected him before he could even prove himself?"

Karna's voice became measured, a tone of quiet condemnation. "Maharaj Dhritharastra... The blind king - blind not only in sight but in his love for his sons. He could never see the truth beyond his sons, nor control their actions. He allowed his kingdom to divide and spiral into chaos, torn between his affection for his sons and his fear of losing power. He is as responsible for this war as anyone else."

He sighed deeply, then continued, "Maharaj Pandu... He abandoned his throne, he failed as a king the moment he left the kingdom and responsibilities behind. He left his sons to fight for a kingdom he himself could not hold. His sons are not only fighting for their right, but also for what their father failed to achieve."

There was a pause, and Karna's eyes softened for a moment. "Mata Gandhari... she let her blindfold make her truly blind. Blind to her brother's growing hatred for the Kuru dynasty, blind to her son's pain. She let her grief and loyalty blind her to everything that truly mattered."

But when Karna spoke next, his voice trembled with restrained anger. "And then there's Rajmata Kunti... What do I even say... I can understand why she abandoned me. I can even understand why she never revealed the truth about me to the world. But she could have atleast told me, Govind, at least once. Just once, she could have told me in private. I could have done something..."

Karna's hands clenched, his voice shaking. "No matter how much I try to sympathize with her, no matter how much I want to forgive her, I cannot Govind... She will never be my mother... Radha Ma is my true mother. Even Gandhari Mata, treated me like her son. But Rajmata Kunti… she let me suffer. She watched my brothers insult me, their own Jyesth, and said nothing. She never stopped us when two brothers are vowing to kill each other. Govind... She is not my mother... and she never will be.... in this life...."

Karna's eyes hardened as he spoke. "Now, let's talk about my so-called brothers…"

His voice grew more scornful. "Yudhishthir... the righteous king… The man who gambled away his kingdom, his brothers, and even his wife. Where was his Dharma then? How can a man who calls himself righteous describe his wife's beauty as if she was an object, only to stake her in a game of dice? Is she not a woman, a queen, his wife? He is no less guilty than Duryodhana for bringing us to this point."

Karna's voice grew even more bitter. "Bhima... he used his strength to bully Duryodhana and his brothers from the very beginning. He was silent when Draupadi was dragged through the halls, following his 'Jyesth Yudhisthir's orders. Where was his strength of a 1000 elephants then? And now... now he slaughters the Kauravas with such cruelty, not for justice, but for vengeance."

Karna let out a bitter chuckle. "Arjun... The greatest archer... He fought fiercely in the swayamwar to win Draupadi, but what did he do then? He allowed her to marry all his brothers, He let his 'Jyesth Yudhishthir' to stake her in a game of dice. But could he protect Draupadi, his own wife, when it truly mattered? Could he stand against his 'Jyesth' who gambled away everything? The mighty Gandivadhari stayed silent, head bowed, even when injustice lay before him. What good is being the greatest archer if he can't wield that skill when it's needed the most?"

Karna's tone softened slightly as he spoke of Nakul, Sahadev and Kauravas.

"And Nakul, Sahadev... They follow their brothers without question, without thought. Their loyalty is blind, and in their silence, they too have contributed to this destruction."

He continued. "The Kauravas... Duryodhana's 99 brothers. They followed him without question, just as the Pandavas followed Yudhishthir. Is there really any difference, Govind? Both sides walked into this war because of their loyalty to their Jyesth."

Karna's voice grew colder as he spoke of Shakuni. "And how can I forget... Mamashree Shakuni... The man who set this entire game in motion. In his hatred for the Kuru dynasty, he has destroyed his own sister's life, filling her eyes with endless tears. He poisoned Duryodhana's mind, manipulated his nephew for his own revenge. But tell me, Govind, what choice did Duryodhana have? Left alone, rejected by all, who else could he turn to but the man who promised him victory?"

Karna's expression turned grave as he continued. "Duryodhana… I will never say he is blameless. He poisoned Bhima as a child. He has plotted against the Pandavas at every turn, from attempting to burn them alive in the house of lac to conspiring with Shakuni, crossing lines no king should ever dare to tread. He sought to take what was not his. He humiliated Draupadi in the Dyut Sabha, ordering his brother to drag her into the court and telling her to sit on his thigh. Draupadi faced a humiliation that no woman should ever endure. His pride and arrogance have led him down a path of destruction."

Karna's eyes locked onto Krishna, full of defiance and sadness. "The Pandavas have you, Govind, to guide them. But who does Duryodhana have? Bhishma, who favoured the Pandavas? Vidur, who called him a bad omen at birth? His parents, who were blind in love for him and also powerless to guide him? Or Shakuni, who used him for his own revenge? No one guided him, no one showed him the path of Dharma..."

Karna paused, his voice growing softer, almost regretful. "And me… I, too, have played my part. I let my pride and my anger guide me. My pride in being a warrior, my anger at being rejected. I fought for Duryodhana knowing his flaws without trying to change him. I... I called Draupadi unchaste... I watched as she was dragged into the court, and I did nothing, all because of my loyalty to Duryodhana. I will not deny my actions, Govind... From the very beginning, I just wanted to prove my worth, to show that I was not just a Suta. But in doing so... I failed."

His fists clenched, his voice filled with regret. "Govind… I am their Jyesth. Their eldest brother. It was my duty to protect them, to guide them... But... I stand here, ready to fight my brothers (Pandavas) alongside my brothers (Kauravas). I failed as a friend... I failed as a brother... I am no better than any of them..."

Karna dropped to his knees, tears flowing down his cheeks as he continued, his words heavy with sorrow. "IF ONLY... I HAD FOUND OUT THE TRUTH BEFORE IT WAS TOO LATE... IF ONLY I HAD BEEN WITH THEM AS THEIR BROTHER... I COULD HAVE AT LEAST TRIED TO RECONCILE THEM AND STOPPED THIS WAR... IF ONLY I HAD SEEN THIS SOONER..."

Karna fell silent, lost in thought. After some time, he rose to his feet. "Govind… Is there no way for me to make it right? I... I know it’s too late, but…" He hesitated.

Karna looked at Krishna, and asked desparately. "Before I die... I just need one chance. One chance to stop this war. To end the hatred, the division between my brothers. I want this war to end now... with my death..."

Krishna, who had been silent until now, listened carefully, his eyes observing Karna. Slowly, a knowing smile formed on his lips — a smile that carried the weight of untold truths, as if he had been waiting for Karna to reach this very point.

"But I did offer you a chance, Radheya — to come to the Pandavas side and leave Duryodhana," Krishna said, his voice steady.

Karna's expression hardened. "What I want is to reconcile my brothers, not divide them further. Your offer would mean Duryodhana's end, and that is not what I desire. I want to bring them together... I want this war to stop... with my death."

"Now it is too late to change anything," Krishna replied, his voice calm yet resolute.

Karna looked down sadly and whispered. "I know it is too late... But I just need one chance..."

Krishna's smile widened knowingly, as if he held a secret that could change everything. "But... it is never too late to change EVERYTHING. The question is… what will you do now?"

Karna blinked, confusion crossing his features. "What? What do you mean?"

Stepping closer, Krishna placed his hand on Karna's shoulder, his gaze piercing through the uncertainty. "You will be given a chance, Radheya. But with this chance comes a great burden, a suffering more than you have ever known."

Karna trying to understand what Krishna was offering — a chance to stop the war?

Without fully knowing what kind of chance or suffering Krishna was talking about, Karna made his decision. If Krishna was giving him a chance, then he was ready to face even hell for that one opportunity.

"I don't care about the suffering or the burden you speak of... If there's even the slightest chance to stop this war, then I will bear whatever comes."

Krishna's smile broadened slightly, as if amused by Karna's eagerness. He spoke again, his voice holding both caution and wisdom. "Radheya, you should listen completely first. You cannot back down again... IF YOU TAKE THE CHANCE I OFFER YOU, YOU WILL SEE THE PAIN, THE SUFFERING, AND THE LOSS UNFOLD BEFORE YOUR EYES... NOT JUST SEE — YOU WILL FEEL THE PAIN OF OTHERS SUFFERING, AND IT WILL BE FAR GREATER THAN THE PAIN THEY HAVE FELT."

Karna's resolve did not falter. "Govind I have endured so much all my life. Whatever pain or suffering you are talking about, I believe I can handle it. I will accept it."

Krishna's gaze lingered in Karna. He knew that Karna was the only one capable of shouldering such a burden. And so, he had led Karna to this moment, knowing that Karna's desperation would reveal his true character.

"SO BE IT. THE KALA CHAKRA WILL TURN BACK TO WHERE IT ALL BEGAN AND YOU WILL BE GIVEN THE CHANCE TO CHANGE EVERYTHING."

Karna shocked by Krishna's words, "Wait... What!? What do you mean... Kala chakra?"

Krishna continued as if unaffected by Karna's disbelief. "But remember, every time you change something, something else will change. The future will reshape itself, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse. It will not be easy, and it will not be without pain."

Karna stood in silence, the weight of Krishna's words sinking in. Yet, in that moment, he realized that if he could change everything, even if it meant bearing the suffering, it might be worth it.

Karna met Krishna's gaze, his voice steady with newfound determination. "Govind. I will take the chance. If it means stopping this war before it even begins… then I will bear whatever suffering comes with it."

Krishna looked at Karna who was thinking something, so he asked. "You have something else to ask?"

Karna hesitated, but he had to ask. "Did u trick me?"

Krishna smiled innocently. "I prefer to think of it as guiding you gently, towards your destiny. But if you insist on calling it a trick, who am I to argue with a warrior of your caliber?"

Karna shook his head, a smile on his lips as he realized that Krishna had been guiding him all along. Every word from Krishna had pushed him towards this decision.

Finally, Karna asked. "And... Govind... you could have given the chance to anyone... Why you made me ask and at this point when I am going to die...?"

Krishna's innocent expression didn't change, but his eyes sparkled with amusement. He knew what Karna was thinking. He didn't need to confirm or deny it. His mischievous smile said enough — perhaps this was exactly what Krishna had intended from the start.

Krishna gestured around Kurukshetra, his voice calm and full of wisdom. "Everyone fighting in this war knows in their hearts who is wrong and who is right. Yet, they chose a side. They want only one side to win — either the Pandavas or the Kauravas. But you are different..."

Krishna's smile grew mischievous. "After our talk... you are no longer seeing this war from just one side. You are no longer seeing only your pain, your grievance. You are seeing everything as it is — the flaws in everyone, the wrongs on both sides. You see the larger truth. You, Radheya, are the only one who has spoken of reconciling them. You are the only one who sees them as brothers, not enemies. THIS IS WHAT MAKES YOU WORTHY OF THIS CHANCE."

Karna folded his hands and bowed in respect. "Thank you, Govind, for guiding me. For showing me the path I could not see in my pride and arrogance."

Krishna nodded. "The Kala Chakra will turn with your death. But before that moment arrives, YOU MUST MAKE A DECISION."

Karna looked at Krishna, curious. "A decision?"

Krishna smiled knowingly. "Yes. In your mission to change everything, and to stop this war, YOU MAY CHOOSE ONE PERSON WHO WILL HELP YOU. CHOOSE WISELY, BECAUSE THEIR ROLE WILL BE CRUCIAL IN YOUR JOURNEY."

Karna thought for a moment. Many names flashed in his mind, but he needed someone who could truly understand him, someone ready to share his burden. A friend - maybe?

Krishna asked again, "WHO WILL YOU CHOOSE?"

Karna answered. "I CHOOSE ASHWATHAMA."

Krishna raised an eyebrow, amused. "You could have choosen me. Why Ashwathama?"

Karna smiled at the question. "Mitra Ashwa and I... we failed as friends to Duryodhana. We failed to show our Mitra the right path, even when we saw his flaws, we let him walk further into darkness. So, I feel it is only fair that we both do this together - to try and correct what we failed to do before."

He paused, glancing at Krishna. "And also Ashwa is not tied to either the Pandavas or the Kauravas. He would not show any partiality between them. He will see things as they are, without bias, and that's exactly what is needed."

Karna then added with a sly smile, "Besides, Govind. If I am on the side of Dharma, then you will be on my side as well. So, why should I waste my choice on you?"

Krishna chuckled. "Clever choice. Very well, Ashwathama it shall be. But remember since you did not choose me, I cannot interfere unless you yourself ask for my help."

Karna nodded, feeling the weight of his decision.

But there was one more thing he could not leave unsaid. He hesitated. "Govind... I have one last request."

Krishna, with a teasing smile, said. "Radheya, you seem to have a never-ending list of requests. What is it now?"

Karna's voice filled with guilt. "I... What I said to Draupadi... I shouldn't have. My apology alone will never be enough. I WANT THE KALA CHAKRA TO TURN ONLY AFTER DRAUPADI GETS HER JUSTICE."

Karna continued, "And, Can u ask her something...... "......... ". I want you to tell me when we meet."

Krishna smiled gently, and nodded. "Even now, Radheya, you ask only for others and nothing for yourself. That speaks to the purity in your heart.

After Draupadi gets the justice she deserves, THE KALA CHAKRA WILL TURN AND WHEN IT DOES, THE UNIVERSE WILL RESTORE TO YOU WHAT WAS ALWAYS YOURS.

EVERYTHING THAT IS RIGHTFULLY YOURS, ALL THAT YOU WERE DENIED IN THIS LIFE, SHALL COME TO YOU."

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FLASHBACK END

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PRESENT — Hastinapur

One week later... One week after Ashwa's talk with Mahadev

Bhima woke up a full week after he drank the divine elixir. The elixir he had consumed needed time to fully work through his body, granting him the strength of a thousand elephants.

Arjun and Sumukha had recovered from their injuries during this time, but the silence between the Pandavas and Kauravas lingered. They had avoided each other since the incident.

Gandhari, had taken care of both the Pandavas and Kauravas during this time. While her own sons were her priority, she spent more time with the Pandavas, knowing that Pandu, Kunti, and Madri were not there for them.

Bhishma, too, had realized he made a mistake by letting things fester between the cousins. After his mother's advice, he decided on a punishment that could bring them together. He hoped they would talk about the misunderstandings.

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The next morning, it was the day of Suyo and Bhima's birthday.

Suyo woke up early. Normally, on this day, he would visit Radha Ma's house for her blessings and he also needed to talk to Shon about Ashwa.

But instead, here he was.

Bhishma gathered the Pandavas and Kauravas in the courtyard. "I have decided on a punishment: all of you will clean the stables together."

He looked at Yuyutsu with a smile. "Putra Yuyutsu, you will keep an eye on them. If they do not follow through, come and tell me."

Yuyutsu nodded.

As Bhishma left, the brothers exchanged uncertain glances, a mix of disbelief and reluctance settling in.

Upon reaching the stables, they were met with an overwhelming sight. The stench of hay mixed with the smell of animals, and the sounds of restless horses and trumpeting elephants filled the air.

A stern-looking stablehand stood before them with a long list of tasks. He had a rough face, a thick beard, and piercing eyes that seemed to bore into each prince.

"Listen carefully! You will clean the stalls, feed the animals, and muck out the areas. I expect you to work as a team, and remember: no slacking!" The stablehand pointed towards the stalls filled with hay and manure.

As the brothers surveyed the tasks ahead, Yudhishthir stepped forward. "Let's divide the work. If we work together, we can complete it fast." He looked around, gauging their reactions.

"Agreed," Suyo replied, nodding at Yudhishthir’s suggestion.

Sushasana, Nakul and some Kauravas would take care of feeding and grooming the horses.

Suyo, Bhima and some Kauravas would handle the clearing out of the stalls.

Yudhishthir, Arjun, Sahadev, and the rest of the Kauravas would take care of feeding and cleaning the elephants.

Only Yuyutsu was exempt from punishment, tasked with keeping watch over the others.

As the tasks began, chaos quickly followed.

Bhima and Suyo grunted as they shoveled out the soiled straw and manure, their faces twisted in disgust. Horses kicked playfully at their legs, adding to the chaos.

"Is this really necessary?" Sushasana complained as he struggled to hold a bucket of feed, which was dangerously close to spilling.

"Jyesth, why are we getting punished? They should do this punishment alone!" he said, gesturing towards the Pandavas.

"Because you started the fight," Nakul retorted, patting a horse as he spoke.

Vikarna added, "You know exactly why we started the fight."

"Enough!" Suyodhana snapped. "Just finish it fast. I have other things to do." As he said that, an elephant let out a loud trumpet, startling everyone.

As he worked, Suyo's mind wandered. Where is Mitra Ashwa? I did not see him all this week after I sent him to Krishna. I should ask Mitra Shon. Maybe he knows where Mitra Ashwa is.

The brothers continued their work, the air filled with laughter and groans.

Nakul seemed to enjoy himself the most, chatting with the animals instead of doing the physical labor, completely neglecting his duties.

Suddenly, a horse kicked out playfully, catching Nakul off guard and sending him tumbling backward into a pile of hay.

"Ahhhh!" He landed with a loud thud, hay flying everywhere, covering him from head to toe.

Sushasana who was nearby, couldn't help but laugh.

Meanwhile, Yudhishthir, Arjun, and Sahadev struggled with the elephants, who seemed more interested in playing than cooperating.

One particularly mischievous baby elephant snatched a bucket from Arjun. "Hey! Come back here!" Arjun shouted, chasing after it and he slipped in the mud, landing face-first into a puddle.

Sahadev, who had been trying to coax an elephant to move, burst into laughter looking at Arjun.

"Very funny, Dev! Just wait until you face the same-" Arjun stopped mid-sentence and started laughing at Sahadev, because the elephant Sahadev was trying to move sprayed water directly onto him, drenching him completely.

The only one who remained calm and focused on the task at hand, without any troubles was Yudhishthir.

Suyodhana, stopped his work, looked up and said, "It's time we clear the air. There have been misunderstandings between us, and it's better we address them now before things get worse."

Bhima, still catching his breath from the hard work, stepped forward. "It's my fault I slipped. I lost my balance and fell into the river. Suyo didn't push me. I was too angry that day to realize what happened and I thought Sushasana and the others were responsible for Arjun's injury, but it was my fault."

Arjun nodded. "Yes, Bhrata Bhima. I hit my head when Sumukha fell onto me. It wasn't the Kauravas fault. You were fighting them, and I tried to stop you, but in the chaos, I got hurt."

Sushasana scoffed, crossing his arms. "But you did say it, Bhima! You called our Jyesth a bad omen!"

Before the tension could rise again, Yudhishthir intervened. "Sushasana, I understand your anger, but Bhima has explained himself. Now, Bhima," he turned to his younger brother, "you must do what is right."

Bhima knowing this was the only way to resolve things turned to Suyo. "I'm sorry, Suyo. I hurt you and your brothers."

Suyodhana had remained mostly silent throughout the exchange, his expression unreadable. He looked at Bhima, then at his brothers, before finally nodding. "I accept your apology, Bhima."

Now that everything looked fine, Bhima couldn’t help but boast, "And thanks to our fight, I now possess the strength of a thousand elephants!"

The Kauravas exchanged incredulous glances, and some even snickered.

"Is that so? Then let's see if that strength can help you clean faster." Sushasana said, smirking.

"Or lift this pile of soiled hay!" Vikarna added, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Just wait! I'll show you!" Bhima exclaimed, grinning widely, ready to demonstrate his newfound strength while lifting a large pile of hay mixed with animals waste over his head, intending to toss it into the cart nearby.

However, as he threw the load, some fell on him, and some splattered onto Suyo, who had been standing a few feet away.

"Bhima!!!! Watch it!" Suyo shouted, wiping the mess from his face, which only made the others laugh harder.

Laughter erupted, breaking the tension that had hung over them for days.

"Look at you both!" Nakul laughed at Bhima and Suyo, brushing hay off his clothes.

Bhima grinned, throwing a handful of mud at Nakul, who ducked just in time.

But it directly hit Sushala, who had come there to meet her brothers. She had a doll in her hand. And she started crying.

Seeing their sister crying, the Kauravas rushed to her, and Pandavas also went to her.

"Bhima! See what you did." Yudhishthir said, pointing to Sushala, who was crying.

"Jyesth, it's for Nakul..." Bhima said, attempting to justify himself.

The Kauravas took her to a nearby well and helped her clean so she would stop crying, but as there is a saying - too many hands spoil the dish. The same happened here. All 100 worried about her, and in their attempt to make her stop crying, they accidentally knocked the doll from Sushala's hand into the well.

Seeing her favorite doll in the water, she started crying more.

Suyo told his brothers to step back and the Pandavas and Suyo looked inside the well.

Just then someone arrived at the scene, his presence commanding immediate attention. The brothers looked up, momentarily distracted from their crisis.

"What happened?" He asked observing the commotion.

Suyo explained, "My sister's doll fell into the well by mistake, and we can't reach it."

The person looked inside the well, then at the children, he took a step back and studied the situation carefully. The doll was indeed too deep for any of them to reach.

Then, he plucked the grass from the ground. He threw it towards the doll piercing it with precision. He continued piercing the blade of grass with another blade of grass and continued creating a chain.

He used the chain he formed to pull the doll from the well. The brothers watched in astonishment, their mouths agape at this impossible feat.

"Who are you? How did you do that?" Arjun blurted out, eyes wide with admiration.

The person simply smiled, and said. "Go and ask your Pitamah Bhishma about me."

With that, he turned and left from there.

Arjun immediately rushed to Bhishma to show the chain the mysterious person made using grass.

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Later that night, the Pandavas and Kauravas cleaned themselves up, exhausted from the day's labor. As they made their way to the dining hall, the mouth-watering scent of delicious food wafted through the air, signalling the grand feast Bhishma has arranged for Suyo and Bhima's birthday and also because they had worked hard all day, completing their punishment.

The Pandavas and Kauravas saw the servants still arranging the food, so they stopped. However they overheard the servants talking among themselves, unaware that the princes had arrived.

One of the servant ladies carrying a tray, said. "Rajkumar Bhima is lucky that Yuvraj was not present when his brother was called a bad omen."

Then another servant replied. "Hmm you were right. Do u remember what happened last time we -"

Another servant quickly stopped them from saying anything. "Shhh! Do not talk about Yuvraj. Did you forget we are not supposed to talk about him?"

The Pandavas and Kauravas exchanged curious glances because neither group had ever been told that their Jyesth had also been made Yuvraj. Kauravas thought their Jyesth Suyo is the Yuvraj, and Pandavas naturally thought of Yudhishthir.

Arjun, curious, was the first to speak. "Who are you talking about?"

The servants shocked to see the princes, stood in silence, wide-eyed and unsure of what to say.

Bhima with his usual straightforwardness, stepped forward to confirm. "Who is this Yuvraj you are talking about?"

The first servant, hesitant, looked nervously at the others before responding. "Rajkumar Bhima... The eldest son of Maharaj Dhritharastra and Maharani Gandhari is the Yuvraj... Yuvraj Adi-"

The second servant quickly stopped the first one and bowed her head in apology. "Please forgive us, Rajkumar Bhima, but we cannot say anything more."

Suyo, who had been quietly listening, frowned and thought. "Yuvraj? The eldest son of Maharaj Dhritharastra? They're talking about me... But... what's this about a brother? Who are they talking about?"

Yudhishthir, on the other hand thought. "Pitamah has never mentioned anyone being made Yuvraj. I thought I was the Yuvraj and the future king. Why are they saying that the eldest son of Maharaj Dritharastra and Gandhari Ma is Yuvraj? Is Suyo Yuvraj? And which brother are they talking about? Something isn't right here."

Bhima turned to Suyodhana, and asked, "How can you be Yuvraj when my Jyesth Yudhishthir is the eldest?"

Sushasana, always the first one to defend his Jyesth, replied, "What's wrong with our Jyesth Suyo being the Yuvraj? He's the rightful heir."

Another Kaurava chimed in, "Yes, our Jyesth is the eldest son of the king. So of course, he is the Yuvraj."

Arjun, never one to hold back, retorted, "Our father Pandu was the king before he left for the forest. So that makes our Jyesth Yudhishthir the rightful Yuvraj."

Sushasana laughed mockingly. "Arjun, maybe you don't know, but our father Dhriatrashtra was choosen to be king, and he selflessly stepped down and made your father king."

Vikarna added, "Yes, and also before Chote Pitashree left for the forest, he officially made our father Dhriatrashtra the king."

Bhima growing more frustrated, shot back, "Still, my Jyesth is the eldest among all of us, so he is the only one rightful to be Yuvraj, not Suyodhana."

Suyo, who had been lost in thought, heard Bhima and finally spoke. "So what if Yudhishthir is the eldest? I am the eldest son of the current king. And that makes only me as the Yuvraj."

Bhima even though he had apologized before, was now angry hearing Suyo and didn't realize what he was saying.

"HOW CAN A BAD OMEN BE YUVRAJ?"

Yudhishthir, who had been silent until now, shouted. "BHIMA!!!"

The outburst caught everyone's attention, and all eyes turned to Yudhishthir.

When Yudhishthir heard Bhima call Suyo a bad omen again, he got angry because just now they were back to normal and Bhima had apologized, but now Bhima called Suyo a bad omen again and it was clear, this time it was intentional.

"Bhima... Words once said cannot be taken back. You made this mistake before, and you still did not learn from your mistake. You are talking without thinking." Yudhishthir, said, his voice angry and making it clear that Bhima's behavior was unacceptable.

Just as Yudhisthir finished, all the elders came there hearing the commotion. The royal family, Kripacharya, Ashwathama and one more person stood in the background, observing the scene unfold.

Suyo hearing Bhima call him bad omen again, clenched his fists. His voice angry as he repeated. "I am a bad omen right? Fine, I am a bad ome-"

Before Suyo could finish the sentence, a loud, resounding slap echoed across the room. Suyodhana's head snapped to the side, his cheek stinging from the impact.

Suyo blinked in shock and turned, his eyes wide as he realised who had slapped him.

"Did you just slap me? HOW DARE YOU? I considered you my friend, and you dare slap me?"

It was Ashwa who had slapped Suyo.

Ashwa replied angrily. "Yes, I slapped you. And I will do it again if you ever call yourself a bad omen!"

After everything Mitra Karna did to stop the rumors, how dare you call yourself a bad omen, Suyo? Ashwa thought, his anger flaring.

Bhima, watching with amusement, laughed.

Hearing Bhima's laugh, without warning, Ashwa pinned Bhima against a nearby wall.

Bhima was shocked struggling, trying to use his newly gained strength of a 1000 elephants, but it's useless in front of Ashwa, who had the boon to increase his strength manifold at will.

AND RIGHT NOW, ASHWA WAS NOT HOLDING BACK.

Ashwa leaned in, his voice low and dangerous. "AND YOU... Did you forget who took care of you and your brothers when you came here? Did you forget it was him," he said pointing toward Suyo.

"And did you forget the one who took care of you like a mother? Gandhari ma? Look at her." He pointed toward Gandhari who was crying.

Bhima's eyes softened, looking at Gandhari. But Ashwa continued. "The one you are calling bad omen is her son. Do you even realise how much you hurt her when you call her son as a bad omen?"

Bhima opened his mouth to reply, but Ashwa's grip tightened again, silencing him.

Ashwa wasn't done yet. He warned Bhima, "IF YOU EVER CALL HIM A BAD OMEN AGAIN, I WILL BREAK YOUR BONES."

The Pandavas and all the elders gasped at the warning Ashwa gave to Bhima, a direct threat to the prince of Hastinapur.

Bhishma, shouted angrily, "ASHWATHAMA! LEAVE HIM!"

But Ashwa wasn't bothered by Bhishma's anger. He just left Bhima and looked at Bhishma.

"Mahamahim Bhishma, you should be happy that I am the one standing here defending Mitra Suyo and not Ka-"

Before he could finish his sentence another angry voice cut through the air.

"ASHWATHAMA!!! Is this how you talk to your elders?" Dronachraya said as he stepped forward, his eyes filled with fury at the sight of his son's actions.

Ashwa looked at his father and trying to explain, "Pitashree I -"

But Dronacharya raised his hand, his tone leaving no room for argument. "Apologize to Mahamahim Bhishma. Right now!!"

Ashwa turned to Bhishma. "I am sorry. I spoke in the heat of the moment. I meant no disrespect."

Bhishma nodded, acknowledging the apology. He then turned to the kuru princes, "Look at all of you, when I see the Kuru Princes, I should see unity, strength, and honor, but what I see today disappoints me."

His tone was firm but filled with concern. "You are all brothers - a family. And yet you let petty arguments and harsh words divide you. You argue over who should be Yuvraj, but in truth, that title should not matter to any of you right now. You all are a part of the same family, the same lineage. You are brothers, not just cousins. Remember that."

The room fell silent, the weight of his word hanging in the air. Bhishma's disappointment is clearly visible and all the princes looked down not able to meet their Pitamah's gaze.

"I arranged this feast not just to celebrate Suyo and Bhima's birthday but to remind you of your shared bond. Today, you worked hard together. But what is the point of that labor if you let trivial matters destroy the harmony between you?"

Bhishma sighed and ordered. "Take your seats."

"Yudhishthir, you will sit first, next to you Suyodhana, followed by Bhima. After Bhima, Sushasana will sit, next Vikarna, Nakul beside him, followed by Chitrasen, next Sahadev. Finally, the rest of you will follow accordingly."

Everyone obediently took their places, not daring to go against their Pitamah's order. The air was thick with unspoken tension, the conflict still fresh in their minds.

Once they were seated, Bhishma looked at them and then at the food arranged before them. His voice was firm as he spoke. "You should eat without bending your hands."

The Pandavas and Kauravas looked at each other, confused.

"Without bending our hands? How is that possible?" they murmured.

Bhima, ever the impatient one, immediately tried to shove a morsel of food into his mouth, attempting to keep his arm straight, but it slipped from his fingers and fell back onto the plate. He grumbled in frustration and tried again, only to make a mess.

Everyone laughed at Bhima's attempts.

Sushasana, seeing Bhima's failure, smirked. "Watch and learn," he boasted. Grabbing a laddoo, he tossed it high into the air, attempting to catch it in his mouth. But he miscalculated, and the laddoo fell to the ground, rolling away as Sushasana's mouth still open and empty.

"Hahaha! Even the laddoo rejected you!" Bhima laughed and making others laugh at his comment.

One by one, the brothers struggled, each attempt ending in failure.

Yudhisthir, however, observed in silence. After a few moments, he understood. Without a word, he took a morsel of food and, instead of feeding himself, turned to Suyodhana, holding the food out toward him.

Suyo looked confused. "What are you doing?"

Yudhishthir smiled. "We can feed each other without bending our hands."

Bhishma, watching from a distance, smiled, impressed. "I knew you would get it, Putra Yudhishthir." He said, his voice filled with pride.

"This task was not just about eating. It was about cooperation, about understanding that sometimes, to achieve something, you must rely on each other. No one can achieve everything alone. Just as in a family, we must support each other."

Then Bhishma turned to Drona and the other elders. "Come, let us leave the young ones to finish their meal. I have something to discuss with you all."

As Bhishma and the others left, only Ashwa, Gandhari and Shakuni remained.

Once they were alone, Yudhishthir, still holding the morsel, extended it again to Suyo.

Suyo looked at the food in Yudhishthir's hand. He just stood up, his expression unreadable.

"I am not hungry." Suyo said, walking out.

Gandhari tried to stop Suyo but Shakuni placed a hand on her shoulder, stopping her. "Let him be, sister. For now."

Seeing their Jyesth leave, one by one, the other Kauravas also stood up. "We are not hungry either." they muttered, leaving the hall in silence.

Yudhishthir's hand lowered slowly, sadness clouding his face. He could feel it again - the divide growing deeper between his brothers and their cousins.

Suddenly, Ashwa grabbed Yudhishthir's hand, pulling him up. Without explanation, Ashwa began dragging Yudhishthir out of the hall.

The Pandavas stood up immediately, alarmed at the sight of their Jyesth being taken away.

"Where are you taking our Jyesth?" Bhima demanded, stepping forward.

Ashwa didn't respond. He kept walking, pulling Yudhishthir along with him.

The Pandavas exchanged worried looks. Without a second thought they quickly followed behind.

As they all left, the hall was left empty, the uneaten food on the table is a silent testament to the growing rift within the Kuru family.

The footsteps of the Pandavas echoed as they hurried down the corridor after Ashwa and Yudhishthir. When they finally reached a particular hallway, they saw Ashwa stopped abruptly in front of Suyo's room. The tension in the air was palpable, like the calm before a storm.

Ashwa turned to Yudhishthir, his expression unreadable, as he spoke, "You are the so-called Jyesth, right? Go prove yourself."

With that, he pushed Yudhishthir forward, toward Suyo's room. The Pandavas, standing just a few feet behind, watching them.

Ashwa continued, his voice cutting through the silence like a blade. "Your younger brother is angry. He left without eating. And as the eldest, as 'Jyesth' what should you be doing?"

Bhima clenched his fists, he couldn't hold back his anger anymore. "How dare you speak to our Jyesth like that!" he snapped, stepping forward.

But Ashwa turned to Bhima and said seriously, "One more word from you, and I will sew that mouth of yours shut."

The seriousness in Ashwa's voice was enough to make Bhima immediately cover his mouth with his hands.

Ashwa then told the rest of the Pandavas, "Stay outside."

They hesitated, their eyes flickering to Yudhishthir, who gave them a reassuring glance. "It's fine. Wait here."

The Pandavas, though reluctant, nodded and remained outside as Yudhishthir stepped forward into Suyo's room, with Ashwa following close behind. And of course, the Pandavas, unable to contain their curiosity, pressed their ears to the door, desperate to hear what they were going to talk about inside.

Inside the room, Suyo sat by the window, his back to them. He didn't turn to face them when they entered. His voice, cold and distant, was the only indication he knew they were there.

"Leave me alone," Suyo muttered without looking at them.

Yudhishthir took a step closer, his voice calm but filled with sincerity. "I'm sorry, Suyodhana. Bhima-"

Suyo interrupted him, his voice filled with bitterness. "What do you want, Yudhishthir?" he asked, finally turning to face him.

Yudhisthir said. "I don't want there to be fights between us. We are brothers, and I want us to be like before - the day we came to Hastinapur- "

Suyo laughed bitterly, cutting him off. "So, you want me to treat you with kindness? But I did that from the very beginning, and you know exactly what happened after that." he scoffed.

Yudhishthir's shoulders slumped slightly as the weight of Suyo's words hit him. "I know Suyodhana, I know..." he began, trying to find the right words to ease the tension, but Suyo interrupted again.

"Fine, We can go back to how we were..." Suyo said, his voice suddenly flat.

Yudhishthir looked at Suyo, hope flickering in his eyes.

Suyo stood up, looking directly into Yudhishthir's eyes, a smirk crossed his lips.

"But... On one condition. Go and tell Pitamah, Kakashree and Pitashree that you will never sit on the throne. That you will never be the king."

Yudhishthir's face fell. The hope that had briefly sparked within him disappeared as the reality of Suyo's demand hit him like a blow.

Ashwa, tried to interfere. "Mitra Suyo, Stop this! The Yuvraj title, the throne - is that what you truly care about? They belong to your el-"

But Suyo cut him off saying. "I am still angry at you, Mitra Ashwa. Don't test me."

Yudhishthir remained silent, struggling to find the right words. But Suyo wasn't done.

He turned back to Yudhishthir. "If you want us to be brothers... If you want me to consider you my 'Jyesth'... then do as I have asked. Leave the throne to me. I don't want to fight, just like you don't. This is the only way."

Outside the door, the Pandavas had heard every word, and they could no longer stay quiet. They brust into the room, Bhima leading the charge.

"Don't agree to this, Jyesth! The throne belongs to you by birthright! Don't let him take it from you!" " Bhima shouted angrily.

Suyo glanced at them and not interested in arguing with them, looked at Yudhishthir. "I've said what I needed to. The decision is yours." he said calmly.

Ashwa don't want them to fight for something which doesn't belong to them at all. And after knowing everything... after knowing what this enimity between them will lead to if not stopped he could no longer just stay silent.

He stepped forward. "Mitra Suyo stop this-"

But Ashwa stopped when he heard Suyo's next words.

"MITRA ASHWA, WHO WILL YOU CHOOSE?" Suyo asked quietly.

Ashwa looks at Suyo confused. "What?"

"You heard me," Suyo said, his eyes locking onto Ashwa's. "Mitra, I don't want you caught in the middle. So choose. Either stand with the Pandavas," he pointed to Yudhishthir and his brothers. "Or with me."

Ashwa looked at them.

Suyo asked again, "WHO WILL YOU CHOOSE?"

"Neither" Ashwa wanted to say. But instead, he said. "I CHOOSE YOU, MITRA."

"I do not want to pick a side after knowing what will happen." Ashwa wanted to say. But instead he said. "I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOUR SIDE, MITRA."

Suyo gave a small nod.

Ashwa thought, "Even though I do not want to choose between you all. Maybe I am being partial because I will still choose you, Mitra Suyo, because Karna and I came to a conclusion that your future is uncertain, and now... I cannot leave you... not after knowing the end result of what would happen to you if you are neglected."

Suyo turned back to the window, saying, "You can leave now."

PANDAVAS LEFT WITHOUT A WORD, THEREFORE SEALING THE ENIMITY BETWEEN THEM.

Ashwa was about to leave as well, but Suyo called out to him. "Where are you going, Mitra?"

Ashwa, confused, replied. "Umm... you said to leave?"

Suyo patted the spot beside him. "I meant it for them, not you."

Ashwa sat beside Suyo. Both silent for some time.

Finally, Ashwa broke the silence. "I'm sorry... I shouldn't have slapped you."

Suyo laughed. "Mitra, I already forgot about that the moment you told Bhima that you will break his bones."

Ashwa looked at Suyo in surprise but Suyo continued laughing. "Did you see Bhima's face? It was worth it. You know he was boasting about his strength earlier at the stables, but in front of you, it was useless."

A smile formed on Ashwa's lips as he boasted. "Well, if he has the strength of 1000 elephants.... Then I got boon to increase my strength manifold at will."

Suyo raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Really?"

Ashwa nodded.

Then someone came calling, "Jyesth" it was Sushala.

She was carrying a plate of food with her. A smile automatically formed on her lips upon seeing Ashwa.

Suyo hearing her voice, his expression softening slightly. "Sushala, what are you doing here?"

Sushala approached him, holding the plate out. "Jyesth, Mata sent this food for you. She was worried when you left without eating. She's also sending food for our brothers, they left as well without eating after you left."

Suyo nodded, taking the plate from her and placing it between himself and Ashwa.

Sushala leaned closer, her expression suddenly serious.

"Jyesth, Mata also prepared food for Pandavas, and Kakashree came there, he said he will take the food for Pandavas and Mata agreed but when Kakashree was about to leave Mata stopped him and said -" she stopped and asked Suyo.

"Do you want to know what Mata said?"

Suyo's smile widened as he nodded, interested.

Sushala began to imitate their mother.

"MAHAMANTRI VIDUR! Did you forget what happened when Suyo was born and when you called him a bad omen? Or Did you forget who said there would be severe punishment if anyone called Suyo a bad omen? This is the last time I want to hear the words 'bad omen.' Make sure Pandu's sons understand this."

Suyo and Ashwa burst into laughter at her imitation and Sushala continued. "And you know what Kakashree replied -"

Before Sushala could continue, Ashwa said.

"Ji, Bhabhi shree, I will make them understand. And Bhabhi Shree!!! don't scare me like that by calling me Mahamantri Vidur... Did he say that" Ashwa asked Sushala.

Sushala nodded, and the three start laughing.

Suyo asked Ashwa, "Mitra how did you know what Kakashree would say?"

Ashwa smirked and replied. "I have seen him scared whenever he heard 'Mahamantri Vidur'... " The next words barely audible as if Ashwa was speaking to himself, "from Mitra Karna..."

Sushala looked at Ashwa with a shy smile. Ashwa saw her looking at him and returned the smile, THOUGH HE WAS UNAWARE OF THE DEEPER FEELING BEHIND HER INNOCENT SMILE.

After a moment, Sushala stood up to leave. "I'll let you two talk," she said gently, stepping back.

Once she left, Ashwa saw Suyo eating and Ashwa hesitated to ask but Suyo noticed Ashwa's hesitation and asked him. "Mitra Ashwa, You want to say something?"

Ashwa nodded and seriously asked. "Mitra Suyo, do you... do you really want to be Yuvraj and king of Hastinapur?"

Suyo simply said, "No"

Ashwa did not expect that reply from Suyo. "What? Then why did you tell Yudhishthir to give up the throne for you?"

Suyo laughed. "You want to know?"

Ashwa nodded eagerly.

Suyo smirked. "I overheard your conversation outside. So I was just testing him."

Ashwa blinked, trying to process what Suyo said. "So all that... sitting here sadly, telling us to leave when we entered and -"

Suyo cuts him off with a grin. "I was just acting. I heard you talking to them outside." Then, with a smirk he asked. "Were you really going to sew Bhima's mouth?"

Ashwa shook his head, laughing. "Yes. Should I? He talks unnecessarily. Instead he should just use his mouth for eating."

Suyo brust into laughter again.

Then Ashwa asked, "What did you expect Yudhishthir to say? And do you really not want to be Yuvraj or king of Hastinapur? I still don't understand why you put that condition..."

Suyo stopped eating, and, with a smirk, replied. "I wanted Yudhishthir to say that he would give up the throne for me, and at the same time as the eldest, to correct me for what I am asking of him.

As for being Yuvraj or king... Mitra, no one ever told me that I have a responsibility to be Yuvraj or king. Pitamah, Kakashree, Pitashree, Mata and even Mamashree Shakuni - none of them ever said it. MAYBE THEY ALSO WANT YUDHISHTHIR TO BE KING... So I don't know... if I really want to be king of Hastinapur one day..."

"But what I do know now is... I DON'T WANT YUDHISHTHIR TO BE KING. That was the reason I put that condition because I knew Yudhishthir would never do that."

Ashwa can see Suyo's clear intentions, but before he could say anything, Suyo added. "Mitra, I don't desire the throne, but I also don't want Yudhishthir to be king. So, I am willing to fight for the throne if that's what it takes to prevent Yudhishthir from becoming king."

Ashwa remained silent. After a moment, Suyo broke the silence. "Mitra, I am sorry for asking you to choose betw-"

Ashwa interrupted him playfully. "Were you testing me too? Did I pass?"

Suyo shook his head, sincerely replying, "No I wasn't testing you. I just wanted to show I was serious about everything... and you were just there... ready to talk me out of it... So... I just used you."

Suyo then asked Ashwa, "By the way, where were you all this week? I didn't see you after I sent you to meet my new friend - Krishna. He wasn't there either... when I went the next day. Did he say anything to you?"

Ashwa hesitated a moment before answering. "No, he didn't say anything... and I didn't talk to him either. I just gave him the makhan you asked me to."

Suyo looked at Ashwa with mild surprise but didn't push further. "That's odd... I noticed he usually has plenty to say," he remarked, a small smile tugging at his lips remembering his conversation with Krishna. "Still, thank you for delivering the makhan."

Ashwa gave a nod, but his mind was elsewhere. As Suyo turned his attention back to eating. Ashwa's mind began to race. The weight of the past week pressed heavily on him, as he thought.

"One week... A whole week I spent thinking about what Mahadev showed me... and about the conversation Mitra Karna and I had before he left. I really want to tell him everything—about Kala Chakra, about what Mahadev revealed, that he is seeing the past and not the future. But this is not something I can explain through a letter. It has to be said in person, face to face. So after all this time thinking, I've decided… for now, I won't tell Mitra Karna anything about my talk with Mahadev. At least, not yet."

Ashwa finally glanced at Suyo, thinking to himself, "Mitra Karna... I can see the cracks forming between them. But I will do everything I can to bridge that gap... Can we really stop the war? Mahadev said you chose me... I just hope you made the right decision, in choosing me, trusting me."

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To be continued...

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