[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable":3,"chapter-mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-17":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"english","Mahabharat: Shiva's Last Variable",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},1857061,2464,"Chapter 17 - 16: A Kid From Anga... Story Of A Prince...","mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-17",17,"\u003Cp>(A\u002FN):\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drop a meme here that you find funny. Or reflects your mood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-------------------------------------------------\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hastinapur transformed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not slowly. But all at once.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Meanwhile at Kuru Palace...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silk banners draped across pillars.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Golden lamps lined every corridor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fragrant flowers hung like rivers from the ceilings.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Guests arrived in waves:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>👑 Royal families from various kingdom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🧠 Ministers and nobles.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🧘 Sages from distant lands.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And also the kings and princess who were about to get married.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only those bound by great duties stayed away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because this—Was no ordinary event.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This marriages were going to shift the political landscape of these vast lands.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The gates opened once more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And Bhishma returned—With the alliance of Madra secured.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Three marriages. Now certain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But while the palace shone—Vidura moved quietly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Strategically.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because celebrations were not just rituals—They were narratives.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And narratives shaped power.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before someone want’s to target Devara in their own narrative he needs to put his hands first and design it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>By his instruction—A story began to circulate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Carefully. Deliberately.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"A boy... Five years old... Killed two rakshasas alone... Protected a princess...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the eyes of the common people—Devara was no longer just:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A child who was born to goddess Ganga.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A prince brought by Bhishma who they saw at the chariot on that day.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A curiosity about his strength,\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He became—Something else.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some called him 🌊Ganga Putra, ⚔️Rakshasa Slayer and many more titles as they liked as they talked about him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some whispered—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"He is not normal... He is chosen...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Meanwhile at the Kuru Palace kitchen...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara, meanwhile—Was completely unaware about the little game played by Vidura.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching decorations. Eating sweets.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Asking questions like.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Can I have that one too?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Vidura knew. This wasn’t just praise.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was positioning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because when the world begins to believe—A path forms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And once formed—It is very hard to change.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And it’s very important to start with positive image that rather than some damaging his image.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Marriage day...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The palace doors opened—And the world stepped in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The air filled with music—Drums. Conches. Veenas.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Flower petals rained from above—As the brides entered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Graceful. Radiant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Welcomed not just by royalty—But by an entire kingdom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the entrance—Arti flames danced as the ritual is performed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sacred chants echoed chanted by sages.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Each bride was welcomed—Not as a guest—But as a future queen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The palace itself seemed to bow by the reception for the new brides.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The mandap stood at the center—Decorated with gold and flowers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The sacred fire was lit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Witness. Judge.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Binding force for the marriage which will connect the princes and princesses lives together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Three couples who were about to be married arrived.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Prince Dhritarashtra and princess Madri\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Prince Pandu and princess Kunti\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And finally mahamandri Vidura and princess Sulabha.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Side by side. Moving together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They circled the fire—Not once. But thrice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Each step—A vow. A promise.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That they need to keep up for the sake of their partners.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A thread woven into destiny.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—The moment came. The most important part of marriage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The mangalasutra. Placed gently. Around each bride’s neck.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thensindoor1is placed on bride’s forehead where the parting of their hairs\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And just like that—It was done.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The hall erupted softly—Not in chaos—But in warmth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Elders blessed the new brides.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sages chanted mantra’s to bless them to have good luck with their life.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Guests smiled enjoying the moment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A kingdom exhaled a sigh of relief that their princes were finally married.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Amidst all of this—Devara stood. Beside Satyavati.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Who was holding his hands.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Quiet. Observing. Not distracted. Not playful.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just—Watching the tradition unfold before his very eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Anga Kingdom...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Beyond the grandeur of Hastinapur—At the quiet outskirts of Anga—A boy stood alone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bow in hand. Feet planted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Eyes locked on the target.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not born in a palace. Not trained by masters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But driven—By something deeper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The bow creaked as he pulled the string taking a breath.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Rough. Handmade.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The string pulled tight—Not perfect. But determined.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-TWANG!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The arrow flew from the bow as he released the string.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Struck the tree.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Thud.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Close to the mark.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna frowned slightly. Adjusted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Frown!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Pulled again this time determined to hit the target.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-TWANG!!!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This time—Closer to the target than before.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His father—Adhiratha\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Had helped shape the bow.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Patiently. Carefully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thinking it was just a child’s curiosity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Karna—Wasn’t playing around when he said he wanted to become a archer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From the day he saw soldiers hunt—Something had taken root.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not admiration. Not curiosity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Desire.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He wanted—To become an archer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And even when laughed at—He didn’t stop dreaming.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At first—Clumsy. Unsteady.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But day by day—Shot by shot—He improved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Until now—The arrows began to listen to him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not far away—A group of merchants rested.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Talking. Laughing. Exaggerating.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"A prince... Killed two rakshasas alone! With an axe!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Like a storm!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The story had changed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Grown. Twisted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>By each person who spoke about it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But one thing remained.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Clear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Devara... Prince of Hastinapur...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna paused for a second.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The arrow remained drawn. But his mind—Shifted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...A prince...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...strong enough to kill rakshasas...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His grip tightened slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not in jealousy of what he heard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—Interest. Curiosity about how strong he could be to defeat rakshasas.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So if he could he wanted to meet this prince.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then he remembered suddenly about what his father told him at the morning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His parents and their plan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We’re going to Hastinapur today... There will be a parade...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna lowered his bow slowly. Eyes distant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As it was getting late since his father and mother will be waiting for him at home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since they have plan to visit Hastinapur today.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna returned home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A modest hut with few rooms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Simple. Warm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Inside—Adhiratha and Radha were already preparing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Karna return.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Adhiratha informed him it was getting late.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Hurry, Karna! We leave soon!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna nodded calmly. No complaints. No delay.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Nod\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He washed. Returned back to the hut.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And wore the clothes his mother had prepared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Carefully. Respectfully.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Outside—The bullock cart waited.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wooden. Sturdy. Unremarkable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They departed and the destination is Hastinapur.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As time passed...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hastinapur...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hastinapur roared with joy. The streets were alive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Crowds gathered to look at the wives of their princes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Voices rose.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Flowers filled the air as if it were the rain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Three chariots moved forward—Slow. Majestic.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>👑 Dhritarashtra with Madri,\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🏹 Pandu with Kunti,\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>🧠 Vidura with Sulabha.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The people cheered looking at them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Long live the princes!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Blessings upon the queens!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Petals rained down—Like soft applause from the sky even more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kuru Royal Palace...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From the palace balcony—Devara stood. Watching.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The same boy—Who fought in a garden of Gandhara.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now observing a kingdom from the balcony.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His eyes moved—From chariots.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To people. To smiles.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...So many... no matter how many times I see it still looks very impressive.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A quiet thought formed in his mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Amid the roaring celebration—Stood three figures.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Adhiratha, Radha and Karna\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Simple. Unnoticed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet—At the center of something unseen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna looked around—Eyes wide.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Taking in everything before him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The towering palace, The decorated streets, The endless crowd.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This world—Was bigger than anything he had known.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—His gaze stopped.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the second chariot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Where—Pandu and Kunti\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sat. Radiant. Graceful.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And as Kunti raised her hand—Blessing the crowd—Her eyes met his for a second.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna froze for a second.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Something stirred inside him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not thought. Not logic.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A feeling. Deep. Unexplainable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sadness. Heavy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sudden. And yet—Alongside it—Warmth. Respect.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pull.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...Why...?’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He didn’t understand. But it stayed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His gaze drifted. To the nearby pond as he was in thought.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Filled with blooming lotuses.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soft. Beautiful.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And then—An idea formed in his mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna moved to the side.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Quick. Quiet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He took out his bow. Simple. Handmade.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>An arrow. Set.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The string pulled back—Further. Further.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-CREAK.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The bow trembled. Straining.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Still—He pulled more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because—It didn’t feel enough.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And then—Something answered him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A faint energy gathered—At the tip of the arrow.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Subtle. Barely visible. But real.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna didn’t notice. He only felt—certainty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-TWANG—!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The bow snapped. Breaking in two.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the arrow—Flew. Fast. True.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It struck the pond—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-BOOM!!!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Water erupted by the impact.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lotus flowers—Lifted into the sky.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Spinning. Floating.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Carried by the perfect arc—They descended.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soft. Gentle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Right—Onto the chariot. Over Kunti and Pandu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crowd gasped looking at the scene where lotus flowers falling from the sky.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—Erupted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"A blessing! The gods favor them!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Cheers rose louder than before.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kunti looked up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lotus petals falling around her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But her eyes—Didn’t stay on the sky.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They searched.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instinctively. For the source.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And for a brief moment—Her gaze found him again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That same boy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the crowd.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her heart tightened. Because something—Felt familiar.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna stood still. Broken bow in hand.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not proud. Not seeking attention.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just—Feeling. Confused why did he do that and how? were the questions in his mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Meanwhile...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From the balcony of royal palace—Amid cheers, music, and celebration—Devara saw something others didn’t.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not the chariots. Not the crowd.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—A boy. Standing near the pond.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bow drawn. Eyes focused.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara tilted his head slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...What is he doing?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Curiosity first.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—The arrow flew. The lotus rose as it rained down from the sky.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And in that instant—Something clicked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...Karna.’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not just a name. A story. A storm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In Devara’s mind—memories surfaced:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A warrior unmatched.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A son abandoned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A man bound by loyalty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A life crushed by fate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’Abandoned by his mother...Cursed by his teacher...Cursed by Bhudevi...Cursed by a sage...Stripped by Indra...Defeated by fate itself...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara’s expression softened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because what stood below—Was none of that.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just—A boy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not broken. Not hardened. Not alone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara exhaled slowly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Sigh!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...So this is where it starts...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He turned to rajmata Satyavati\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Mother I’m going to play!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before she could respond—He was already gone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Running. Fast.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Excited.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Meanwhile at the pond...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The ripples had calmed. The petals had fallen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And near the pond—Karna stood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Still.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lost in thought.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Eyes lingering where the chariot had disappeared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not far away—Adhiratha and Radha searched desperately.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Karna!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"KARNA!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Radha’s voice trembled. Tears already forming.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because in a city like Hastinapur—Losing a child meant fear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Real fear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When Devara arrived he noticed this commotion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara approached them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Calm. Casual.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Are you looking for a boy? With a bow.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They turned instantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hope flashing in their eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yeah.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"He’s near the pond.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A simple answer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But to them—It was everything.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They rushed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not even questioning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only pausing to say—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Thank you!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As they could tell by the attire of Devara he must be of high status.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara followed behind. Curious. Interested.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They found Karna as Devara as said. Standing there. Unmoving.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Still in that strange silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-THWACK!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A sharp tap on his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna blinked. Snapped back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Oww!!!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Radha stood before him—Eyes wet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Anger and relief tangled together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Where did you go?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Adhiratha stood behind—Breathing heavily.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Huff! -Huff!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mustache twitching with restrained frustration.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Do you know how worried we were?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna lowered his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I’m sorry...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soft. Genuine.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Radha didn’t stop. She grabbed his ear—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Don’t do that again!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna winced his eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Oww... Oww....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Eyes watering now—Not from emotion—From pain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And then—A chuckle. Light. Unrestrained.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Chuckle!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone turned. There stood Devara. Laughing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-HAHAHAHA!!!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You got caught.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna looked at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Really looked this time. A boy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Same age.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But—Different. Clothes. Aura. Presence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everything about him says he must be royalty...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And yet—He was laughing. At him like he was watching a drama.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna rubbed his ear. Still stinging.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Trying not to look too bothered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But failing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara grinned wider.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Grin!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"That looked like it hurt.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Adhiratha and Radha straightened slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now properly observing Devara.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His attire. His bearing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before they had doubts but now clear looking at...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The guards at a distance. Understanding dawned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’...A royal...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They bowed slightly. Respectful. Careful.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Thank you for helping us.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara waved it off casually.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It’s fine.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But his eyes—Were on Karna. Not leaving.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The laughter faded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And Devara stepped forward—Bright. Unbothered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I’m Devaratha... you can call me Devara.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—Recognition.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Karna’s eyes widened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So did his parents’.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because the stories—Had already reached them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>’The prince...The one who killed rakshasas...’\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the boy standing before them—Was smiling. Casual.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Almost... normal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Adhiratha stepped forward. Respectful. Measured.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I am Adhiratha... Charioteer of the Kuru kingdom.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...recently appointed under Mahamahim Bhishma.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He gestured gently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"She is my wife, Radha. And my son... Karna.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara nodded. Taking it all in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Nod\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then—Without hesitation—He looked at Karna.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And asked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Do you want to play with me?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence. Heavy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Radha froze hearing his invitation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Adhiratha stiffened for a second.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because this—Was not how the world worked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Royalty did notplaywith them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They were not equals. They were not—Supposed to be seen like this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But before they could speak—Karna answered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Immediately.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No fear. No doubt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just—Acceptance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then his eyes lit up slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That spark—The same one from before.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Let’s play archery.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A pause.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We take turns. And see who hits the target more.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Simple. Direct.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Honest with the choice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Devara blinked once. Then—A grin spread.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>-Blink! -Grin!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"...Okay.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No hesitation. No pride. No hierarchy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just—Agreement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Adhiratha and Radha exchanged a glance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"....\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Uneasy. But also—Confused.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because what they were witnessing—Should not be happening.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And yet—It was.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>**********************************************************************************************************************************************************\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(Author note:)\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I hope you guys give me your opinion and idea’s.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thanks for reading the Chapter!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Please give a review!!! And power stone too!!!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Guys it will motivate me more?\u003C\u002Fp>",2235,"2026-06-10T05:05:13.417Z",1,"novelbin.me","ee7296b51c1b47010075b1bd80c29067a51f044ffad43d357fcd06c3308b5e49","mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-18","mahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-chapter-16",149,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fmahabharat-shiva-s-last-variable-cover.jpg"]