Not yesterday but now

Chapter 4 : Preparation of The Hearts

Dawn broke softly over the dense forests surrounding Maharishi Vyasa's hermitage. Sunlight filtered through the towering trees, casting a golden lattice on the soft earth below. The Pandavas had already risen, moving through the morning with quiet efficiency, each performing their own chores as part of their disciplined routine.

Arjun took up the axe, splitting logs for the hermitage's hearth with precise, measured swings. Each strike echoed faintly against the stone walls of the guest quarters. Bheem hefted the larger logs, tossing them expertly onto the growing pile, his deep laughter occasionally rumbling across the clearing.

Nakul and Sahadev moved silently among the groves, collecting fresh fruits, edible roots, and fragrant herbs. They spoke little, letting the rustle of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the whisper of the wind be the music to their labor. Yudhisthir walked calmly among them, occasionally adjusting a log's position or instructing on the most efficient paths to collect the forest bounty.

Kunti moved among her sons, smoothing their garments and offering a gentle word of encouragement. Her eyes softened as she observed them, the young warriors shaped by adversity, yet unbroken, humble, and disciplined. Pride mingled with apprehension; their lives had been lived in shadows, yet destiny had prepared them for a light they were only beginning to glimpse.

By mid-morning, the Pandavas had completed their chores. They bathed in the nearby river, the cool waters refreshing their tired limbs. Steam rose from the ground in places, mingling with the morning mist. Birds swooped overhead, calling to one another, and the occasional splash of a fish breaking the water's surface punctuated the serene symphony of the forest.

They sat by the riverbank to eat a simple breakfast, flatbreads, fresh fruits, and sweet milk, exchanging light banter to ease the weight of the day.

"Parth," Bheem rumbled, grinning, "try not to lose the axe in the river this time. We cannot have the forest mourning your clumsiness."

Arjun chuckled, lifting a fresh flatbread. "Do not worry, bhrata Bhim. The trees forgive my errors easily."

Sahadev, plucking a wild berry, added softly, "Strength is valuable, yes, but it must be guided by wisdom."

Nakul winked at Arjun. "And perhaps your dreams are wiser than you think, bhrata."

Arjun raised an eyebrow but said nothing, lost in thought, feeling the forest's peace press against the edges of a restless mind.

Suddenly, a ripple of energy ran through the clearing. From the narrow forest path emerged Krishna, his figure radiant in the soft morning light. The Pandavas froze, astonishment mingling with joy.

"Krishna!" Bheem roared, dropping his flatbread in delight.

"Govind!" Nakul and Sahadev echoed in unison, their smiles breaking into laughter.

Kunti stepped forward, astonished, her hands rising instinctively. "Your presence honors us, Krishna. We were not expecting..."

Krishna laughed, his eyes twinkling. "I could not resist seeing you all in your element. There is a certain delight in seeing princes humbled by simplicity, yet unshaken in spirit."

Yudhisthir bowed slightly. "Your arrival is both a surprise and a blessing. Please, join us for a meal, Govind."

The meal was held under the shade of a large peepal tree, with fruits, herbs, and bread shared freely. Conversation was easy, playful, and philosophical.

"Do you ever tire of traveling, Krishna?" Arjun asked, curiosity soft in his voice.

Krishna's smile widened. "Traveling is nothing compared to the journeys within. The mind, Parth, is the greatest battlefield."