Anya's ancient antics: a mahabharat tale

chapter : 5

As the chariot approached, Anya's excitement reached its peak. She leaned towards Draupadi, whispering with a grin, "Do you think we'll get a free chariot ride? I mean, who says no to free rides, right?"

Draupadi laughed softly, "Anya, you have the most unusual ideas."

Yudhishthir, with his calm demeanor, said, "Let us wait and see who it is."

The chariot came to a halt, and a young man with dark skin stepped out. He was adorned in a yellow dhoti and uttariya, a peacock feather crown resting on his head. His skin had a unique bluish tint, and his eyes sparkled with a mischievous wisdom. His smile was warm and inviting, radiating both charm and a hint of divine playfulness.

Draupadi's face lit up. "Sakha!" she called out with joy.

Krishna's smile widened. "How are you, my dear Sakhi?"

All the Pandavas immediately folded their hands in reverence. "Pranipat, Vasudev!" they greeted in unison. Krishna reciprocated the gesture, then moved to embrace Arjuna warmly.

Arjuna smiled, "Krishna, you're always a welcome sight. You bring light wherever you go."

Krishna nodded with a twinkle in his eye, "And you, Parth, always find a way to make that light shine even brighter."

Kunti stepped forward to bless Krishna, and he bowed his head with respect. Meanwhile, Anya stood to the side, feeling like she was watching a high-stakes drama unfold. She whispered to herself, "This is like a live soap opera, only better. I hope he doesn't notice me... gods noticing people usually spells trouble."

Of course, Krishna's gaze fell directly on her. His smile grew mischievous. Anya felt panic rise in her chest. "Oh no, he's looking right at me! Quick, think of something!" she thought.

Without another word, she dropped to the ground, clutching Krishna's feet. "Oh, mighty lord! Please forgive me!" she blurted out, her words coming out in a rush. "I'm sorry for... um... copying my friend's math paper in 9th grade! And taking that extra ladoo during puja when no one was looking! And... oh! Lying to my parents about failing that test... and telling my teacher our dog ate my homework, even though we don't have a dog!"

Arjuna burst out laughing. "Oh, Krishna, it seems you've met quite the character here."

Krishna chuckled, "Anya, you don't need to beg for forgiveness for such small matters."

But Anya, still panicking, continued, "I also apologize for secretly eating all of Bhima's sweets and blaming the ants! And for pretending to have a stomachache so I wouldn't have to clean my room!"

Krishna's smile grew wider, though he struggled to maintain a serious expression. "Anya, calm down. You are forgiven for all your... interesting escapades."

Yudhishthir, trying to maintain his composure, asked, "Krishna, do you know Anya?"

Krishna, still amused, replied, "Yes, I know Anya quite well." He spun a tale with effortless grace, "She is like a little sister to me. Her parents trusted me to look after her, seeing me as their own son. Sadly, they are no longer with us. I promised to bring her to Dwarka, but somehow she ended up here. I'm thankful you all found her and kept her safe." He nodded to Kunti and the Pandavas. "Thank you, Kunti Ma, and all of you."

Kunti smiled, "She has been a... unique guest, bringing joy and chaos in equal measure."

Bheem added with a hearty laugh, "She eats more than even I do! Now that is truly a feat."

Anya grinned. "What can I say, Bhima? I've got a healthy appetite, just like you."

Sahadeva, always thoughtful, added, "And you certainly keep us entertained with your stories, Anya."

Arjuna stepped forward, looking at Anya with a teasing smile. "Anya, you've certainly made an impression here. Are you sure you'll be able to handle Dwarka? Krishna's place isn't as laid back as you might think."

Anya looked at him, raising an eyebrow. "Oh, please. If I can handle this madhouse," she gestured around her dramatically, "I think I can handle a palace or two. Besides, Krishna will be there to accompany me?"

Arjuna laughed. "Well, just make sure you don't challenge bhrata Balaram to an eating contest. That's one match even Bhima might struggle with."

Bheem playfully punched Arjuna's shoulder. "Hey! I would never lose an eating contest, even to dau Balaram!"

Krishna chuckled. "There will be plenty of food for everyone. No contests necessary."

Then turning to Yudhishthir, Krishna's tone became more serious. "It is time for you to claim your rightful place, Yudhishthir. You should go to Hastinapur with Draupadi. You have the support of Panchal now."

Anya, who was munching on a fruit, looked up curiously. "Hastinapur? "

Everyone turned to look at her, amused. Krishna's smile returned. "Anya, we will leave for Dwarka today."

"Dwarka?" she asked, frowning a little.

"Yes," Krishna nodded. "You will come with me. My brother Balaram, my parents, and your new sister Subhadra will be there to welcome you."

Anya didn't seem impressed. "Uh... sounds... okay, I guess?"

Sensing her hesitation, Krishna leaned closer and whispered, "There will be chariot rides, unlimited delicious food, gems, and jewelry."

Anya's eyes lit up. "Now you're speaking my language! When do we leave?"

Krishna laughed. "Very soon, little one."

Kunti stepped forward and embraced Anya gently. "Take care, dear Anya. You've been a bright spark in our home. Remember, you're always welcome here."

Anya hugged her back. "I'll miss you, Kunti Ma! Thank you for everything! And don't worry, I'll write you letters... if I find a pigeon who knows the way."

Draupadi smiled warmly. "Farewell, Anya. You've been a wonderful companion. Keep your spirit bright."

Anya nodded enthusiastically. "I will, Draupadi! And don't worry, I'll come back with lots of stories... and maybe some Dwarka sweets!"

As Anya and Krishna climbed onto the chariot, Bhima shouted, "Remember, Anya, don't eat all of Dwarka's food before we visit!"

Anya waved back with a grin. "I'll try, bhrata Bheem, but no promises!"

Sahadeva called out, "And stay out of trouble, Anya!"

Anya winked. "Trouble? I don't even know what that word means!"

As the chariot moved away, Anya leaned out, waving wildly. "Remember, Krishna! Deluxe chariot ride, snacks, jewels, the whole package!"

Krishna chuckled. "You have my word, Anya. An adventure awaits!"

And with that, Anya set off for Dwarka, her new adventure beginning with as much excitement and enthusiasm as she could muster.