Mahabharat - The Changed Fate

Chapter 50: An Unexpected Day of Fun

The sun shone brightly over Hastinapur, casting a warm glow across the palace gardens. Today was a rare day, free from the weight of politics and familial strife. Govind, Avika, and Duryodhan had decided to take a break from their usual responsibilities, seeking some lighthearted fun amidst the tension that had recently clouded their lives.

As they gathered in the garden, Duryodhan approached with an exaggerated flourish. "Behold! The mighty prince of Hastinapur has arrived to bring joy to this mundane gathering!"

Govind chuckled, leaning against a tree. "Mundane? I didn't realize we were in the presence of a royal entertainer."

"Of course! I come bearing gifts!" Duryodhan declared, dramatically pulling a small, ridiculously oversized hat from behind his back. "The official Hat of Happiness! Wear it, and your worries will disappear!"

Avika burst into laughter, unable to contain herself. "That hat looks like it could swallow a small child!"

Duryodhan, undeterred, placed the hat on his head. It tilted comically to one side, and he struck a pose. "See? I am now the jester of the court! Who will join me in merriment?"

Govind smirked, shaking his head. "You do realize that you just elevated your own status from prince to clown?"

"I prefer the term 'fun ambassador,' thank you very much!" Duryodhan replied, twirling in circles, the hat wobbling precariously.

Avika decided to join in on the fun. She picked up a small flower and placed it behind her ear. "If we're going to be ridiculous, we should all participate. Govind, you need a flower crown!"

Govind laughed, raising his hands in mock surrender. "I am a wise advisor, not a flower child!"

"Come now, Govind," Duryodhan teased, "how can you be wise if you can't embrace a little silliness?"

With a dramatic sigh, Govind relented. Avika quickly fashioned a crown out of flowers and placed it on Govind's head. "There! Now you look as wise as an old tree!"

"An old tree? How flattering," Govind replied, trying to maintain his composure while also enjoying the playful banter.

Duryodhan leaned in closer, pretending to examine Govind's floral headpiece. "I must say, this crown brings out your eyes, Govind. The wise advisor turned charming prince!"

Avika giggled, and Govind rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "Enough of this nonsense! What else do you have up your sleeve, oh mighty fun ambassador?"

Duryodhan reached into his satchel and pulled out a stack of colorful paper. "Behold! The ancient art of paper fortune-telling!"

"What?" Avika said, her curiosity piqued. "How do you play?"

Duryodhan explained the rules, which involved folding the paper into shapes and revealing fortunes based on their movements. "I will tell you your fortunes, and if I'm right, you must bow to my superior skills!"

Avika raised an eyebrow. "And if you're wrong?"

"Then I will dance like a peacock!" Duryodhan replied, puffing out his chest with pride.

"Let's do it!" Avika exclaimed, clapping her hands together.

As Duryodhan began to fold the paper, Govind watched, bemused. "You're serious about this?"

"Of course! I am a man of many talents!" Duryodhan declared, his focus intense as he folded the paper with exaggerated precision.

Once completed, Duryodhan held up the paper fortune-teller, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Who shall go first?"