Dharmyudh : The Rewritten Destiny

81. Challenge of the Ape

The golden rays of the morning sun shone down on the city of Indraprasth, bringing with them, a new day. As the day awakened, so did the inhabitants of this great city. In the streets, children were laughing as they played together. Women were going about their daily chores, buying groceries for the day and other necessities from the markets while the men went to their respective jobs.

The royal gardens hummed with the chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves as Karn walked down the wide stone steps, his young son Dhruvsen cradled securely in his strong arms. Beside him walked Draupadi, his love, his wife, his queen. He glanced at her  beautiful face. Her hair, which had been braided the night before, was falling loose. A few strands of it were fluttering in the air, she smiled as she noticed his gaze.
Karn smiled back at her, his blue eyes glinting. He loved her with all his heart, loved her more than he could ever express.

Dhruvsen, with dark, inquisitive eyes and an untamed mop of hair, squirmed slightly in his father’s arms. His face tilting up to look at his father,

Dhruvsen :- Pitashree, where are we going?

He asked, his voice bright with curiosity.
Karn glanced down at the boy, his expression softening into a smile.

Karn :- We are going on a journey, my son. To Dwarika.

He replied, his deep voice carrying warmth. The boy tilted his head, his brows furrowing.

Dhruvsen :- Dwarika? Why are we going there?

He asked, his tone holding a mix of confusion and excitement.
Karn’s smile widened as he explained,

Karn :- We are going to meet Mamashree Krishna. Do you like your Mamashree?

At this, Dhruvsen’s face lit up like a lamp and he nodded enthusiastically, his lips curving upwards in a broad smile. Karn laughed softly, the sound rumbling from his chest.

Dhruvsen :- Yes, yes! Mama Krishna is the best uncle in the world! He always brings me the most wonderful gifts!

He exclaimed, clapping his small hands.
Karn chuckled, his rich laughter echoing across the courtyard. Draupadi, walking beside him, covered her mouth with her hand to hide her own mirth. Her eyes, bright like the morning dew, twinkled. She had never seen her husband this happy and carefree. She was glad for her son that he had such a loving father.

Karn :- And what else do you know about your Mama Krishna?

He asked, raising his brows as he gently lifted his son. Dhruvsen’s chest puffed up as though he were about to recite a great lesson.

Dhruvsen :- Ma tells me stories about him all the time! She told me how Mamashree Krishna lifted an entire mountain on one finger to save everyone from the storm! And how he defeated the mighty Kansa in a wrestling duel! He is so strong! So brave!

He exclaimed, his voice full of excitement. Karn grinned, his chest swelling with pride as he looked at his son.

Karn :- Yes, your Mamashree Krishna is very strong and brave. But not just that, he is also very intellectual and knowledgeable. Even the greatest and renowned people bow to him.

He said, his voice filled with admiration. Draupadi couldn’t help but smile, the bond between Karn and Krishna was unlike any other, as if they were one soul in two bodies.
Dhruvsen glanced at his mother,

Dhruvsen :- Really ma!

He inquired with curious eyes. Draupadi laughed softly, her dark eyes sparkling with amusement.

Draupadi :- Indeed, I have told you those stories, but have I told you about your Mamashree Balram? He will shower you with a variety of sweets when we reach Dwarika.