Water to The Fire - Pandava x Reader - A Mahabharata Fanfiction

Part 6 - The Truth

The courtyard was filled with the soft rustling of leaves as the Pandavas and Kauravas gathered, their faces reflecting concern and resolve. The topic of their discussion was Y/N's recurring bouts of weakness, which had puzzled them for some time despite her evident strength and bravery in battle.

Arjuna, breaking the silence, suggested, "Let's ask Queen Mother Kunti. She's known Y/N her whole life—she must know the reason behind her condition."

The group nodded in agreement, their decision made. They found Kunti overseeing some royal duties, her expression reflecting the gravity of their concern. She motioned for them to sit, her demeanor already conveying that she understood the seriousness of their inquiry.

Kunti began solemnly, "Y/N didn't have an easy start in life. As you know, her talented warrior parents were ambushed on the road by bandits."

The men listened intently, their faces growing somber as Kunti continued. "Y/N, just a toddler at the time, was left alone amidst the carnage. For days, she wandered the forests, a helpless, starving child."

Kunti's eyes welled up as she recounted the story. "Eventually, a slave trader found her. He saw only a means to profit from her frail state, and she was sold into servitude. The family that bought her provided little care or sustenance, allowing her severe trauma to fester."

Kunti took a moment to regain her composure before continuing. "Despite all our healers' efforts, the trauma and neglect left deep scars. This is why any panic or stress can have such a severe impact on her health. We must protect her peace at all costs."

The room fell silent as the gravity of Y/N's hidden wounds sank in. The Pandava and Kaurava warriors, deeply moved, understood now why their loyalty and care were crucial.

As they exited Kunti's room, their minds were heavy with newfound empathy. Nakula spoke up, his voice thick with emotion. "My heart aches thinking of everything she's endured. Is there anything we can do to ease her suffering?"

Sahadeva nodded in agreement. "Mom said that any distress can trigger her pain. We need to shield her from any upsets."

Arjuna suggested, "We could check on her health and mood daily, catching any declines early and ensuring that healers are called immediately if needed."

Bhima, always ready to defend, cracked his knuckles and declared, "And any scoundrels who would harm or upset her will have to answer to me!"

Yudhisthira laid a calming hand on Bhima's arm, his tone soothing. "Violence won't undo past pains. We must show our care through compassion."

As they walked through the palace halls, ideas flowed freely. They discussed bringing her thoughtful gifts to lift her spirits, accompanying her on walks to provide fresh air and conversation, and ensuring that her environment was as peaceful as possible. Their collective goal was clear: to offer Y/N the solace and support she deserved, and to shield her from any further suffering.

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As Y/N was deeply absorbed in her archery manual, the rhythmic scratch of her quill on parchment and the occasional rustle of pages were the only sounds in her room. She had just slipped a scrap of parchment between the pages of her book when a knock at the door interrupted her focus.

"Come in," she called out, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. The heavy wooden door creaked open to reveal the Pandava brothers standing in the doorway, their expressions a mixture of concern and camaraderie.

"Hey guys, what's up?" Y/N greeted them with a warm, easy smile. The sight of her loyal friends was always a welcome distraction.

"We wanted to check in, see how you're doing," Nakula said kindly, his gentle eyes reflecting his concern.

Y/N's smile widened at their thoughtful gesture. "I'm good, just got lost in my reading as usual." She gestured to the worn tome resting on her quilted bedspread.

Arjuna stepped forward, his gaze attentive and serious. "And how are you feeling? Any stress or discomfort we should know about?" he asked with genuine care.

Y/N raised an eyebrow at their unusually cautious behavior but decided to indulge their concern. "I'm all good, in top form," she reassured them, her voice steady.

The brothers visibly relaxed at her assurance, but Yudhisthira, ever the mediator, spoke up. "The gardens are particularly lovely this time of evening. How about a walk? Some fresh air might do you good."

Y/N considered their suggestion, touched by their attention. "That sounds nice, just let me stretch my legs after being cooped up in here," she said, slipping on her cloak with a soft smile.

The group ventured out into the palace gardens, the golden light of sunset casting a warm glow over the lush greenery. Rows of vibrant pink and orange wildflowers lined the winding stone paths, and the cheerful chirping of birds added a serene soundtrack to their stroll.

As they meandered through the fragrant gardens, Y/N couldn't help but notice the subtle, almost protective way the Pandavas flanked her. Their casual conversation and easy laughter seemed to mask a deeper purpose, but Y/N chose to focus on the pleasant surroundings and their company.

The brothers led her along a particularly picturesque path, where the evening light filtered through the trees in dappled patterns. The beauty of the moment was undeniable, but Y/N's curiosity about their intentions continued to simmer beneath her calm exterior.

As they walked, Yudhisthira casually commented, "It's peaceful out here. Sometimes a change of scenery helps clear the mind."

Y/N smiled, appreciating the sentiment. "True. And the gardens are the perfect escape from the confines of study."

Their conversation flowed naturally, but Y/N couldn't shake the feeling that there was more behind their seemingly casual outing.

Finally, Y/N came to a stop beside an ornate lotus pond, its surface shimmering under the setting sun. With a determined twist, she faced the Pandava brothers, hands resting on her hips.

"Alright guys, I've had enough dodging," she said, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Spill it—what's really going on?"

The brothers exchanged nervous glances, unsure who should speak first. Yudhisthira, always the diplomat, took a deep breath and stepped forward. He gently grasped Y/N's arm, his touch meant to be reassuring.

"Please don't be upset," he began cautiously, his eyes searching hers. "We learned more about your painful past from Mother Kunti today."

Y/N's brow furrowed as realization dawned. "So that's why you've all been hovering. She told you everything, didn't she?"

At their solemn nods, Y/N let out a deep sigh. She wasn't really angry; she understood their concern. Arjuna, ever the sensitive one, spoke up next. "We want to help lighten any lingering burdens you might have, ensure nothing disturbs your peace of mind."

Y/N offered a wry smile, trying to lighten the mood. "By smothering me with overprotectiveness?"

Bhima grinned sheepishly, scratching the back of his head. "We just care about you so much, sister. Let us ease your troubles however we can."

Feeling a warm swell of affection for these sweet brothers, Y/N's stern gaze softened. "You already do that simply by being you. Now, no more long faces—teach me some new sparring moves instead!"

The brothers' relief was palpable. Eager to move past their concern, they readily agreed. As they practiced and shared laughs, the bond between them grew even stronger. Their time together, filled with care, trust, and joyful moments, only deepened their connection as a family.