Dream - A Karna SI

16. GUEST

Karn - 18 years

Yudhisthir - 15 years

Bhima & Duryodhana - 14 years

Arjun - 13 years

Nakula & Sahdeva - 11 years

(KARN's POV)

As the sun climbed higher into the sky, I made my way to the royal residence of the Pandavas. My heart was steady, though the significance of this reunion was not lost on me. When I arrived, I asked the dwarpala to announce my presence as Karn, son of Suta Adhiratha. Moments later, the door flew open, and an excited teenager came rushing out, wrapping me in a fierce embrace. I was surprised to find that I was barely taller than him, and with his broad frame, it was clear that Bhim was well on his way to becoming a giant.

"Pranam, Prince Bhim! It seems you haven't forgotten me," I said, touched by his enthusiastic greeting. Bhim, with his open heart and straightforward nature, had always been the easiest of the Pandavas to befriend. He did everything with such passion-whether it was loving, eating, fighting, or holding a grudge. His energy was infectious, and I couldn't help but smile.

"How could I ever forget you, Karn? When did you come back to Hastinapur? Why didn't you come to see me earlier?" Bhim asked, his voice booming as he started to drag me inside.

Before I could respond, Arjun appeared, a warm smile on his face. I joined my hands in respect, greeting him with a bow. "Pranam, Prince Arjun."

"We've all missed you, Karn," Arjun said, his voice sincere as he led me into the inner room where Kunti and the rest of the Pandavas were waiting. As soon as I saw her, I bowed low, touching her feet in reverence.

Kunti's arms enveloped me in a tight hug, and I could see the tears glistening in her eyes. "You didn't answer my question, Karn," Bhim interrupted, his curiosity still unsatisfied.

I smiled at his persistence. "I returned to Hastinapur a couple of months ago, but I didn't want to disturb you all while you were completing your education. I saw the display in the rangashala, and it was nothing short of mesmerizing. You have all become formidable warriors."

"Isn't that right? Did you see how I defeated that ponce, Duryodhana, in the gada yuddha? That was epic!" Bhim launched into a detailed account of his fight, his pride evident.

I laughed heartily. "Indeed, Prince Bhim, you were magnificent. But so was Prince Duryodhana. He matched you strike for strike, and that's no small feat."

Bhim's face fell, his pride momentarily bruised. "How can he be magnificent when I defeated him?"

"A warrior's worth isn't measured solely by victories and defeats. It's also in how he approaches his craft. You were splendid, no doubt, but so was Duryodhana. Despite not being a 'mini giant' like you, he kept up with you because of his skill and rigorous training. It's important to respect that. Always value a person's skill, even if they are your enemy. And remember, Duryodhana is still your brother."

Bhim frowned, then broke into a mock pout. "You sound like Uncle Vidura and Yudhishthira! I'll stick to believing I'm splendid and a mini giant."

Laughter erupted around the room, lightening the mood. It felt good to be in their company, surrounded by warmth and camaraderie.

"How have you been, Karn?" Yudhishthira asked, his calm eyes meeting mine.

"I'm well, Prince Yudhishthira. And you all seem happy and thriving," I replied, genuinely pleased to see them in good spirits.

"Is your training complete, Karn?" Arjun asked, his tone pointed as he studied me closely. There was a curiosity in his gaze that was almost unsettling.

"Yes, my prince, I have completed my training," I answered, keeping my response deliberately vague.

"So, what's your preferred weapon?" Nakula chimed in, his curiosity piqued.

I grinned, deciding to tease them a little. "My mind."

"See! I told you he's gone and become like Uncle Vidura and Bhrata Yudhishthira!" Bhim exclaimed, throwing his hands up in mock frustration.

"We are indeed rare creatures, Prince Bhim, reliant on our minds. Unlike some mini giants," I quipped, earning another round of laughter.

The rest of the day was spent in lively conversation, the hours slipping by unnoticed. As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, Kunti insisted that I stay for a meal with the Pandavas. When I hesitated, she reminded me of our previous discussion on the Purusha Sukta, with Yudhishthira nodding in agreement.

Sitting down to eat with them brought back memories of our journey from Gandhamadan to Hastinapur. It was a time filled with shared stories, laughter, and a deep bond that had only grown stronger over the years. But as much as I cherished these moments, a bittersweet feeling settled over me. The time for another parting was approaching, and it pained me to think of leaving them behind.

It would be so easy to stay, to remain by theirside and offer my support. But I knew that wasn't my path. The Pandavas werestrong and capable, and they would forge their own destinies. My journey layelsewhere, on a path that was uniquely mine.