Author's Note:
At this point—
Arjun's Age: 19
(He was 15 when he reincarnated and inherited the body of 15-year-old Arjun—sorry for not mentioning earlier!)
Karna's Age: 27
(Traditionally, Karna is said to be 10–12 years older than Arjun, but I've chosen to keep him a bit younger in this version.)
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Three Years Later,
The kingdom of Hastinapur was adorned with grand decorations. Joy and excitement hung in the air. The long-awaited day had finally arrived—the return of the one hundred and five princes after years of training at Gurukul.
People from every corner of Aryavarta gathered to witness the Kalapradarshan—the public display of the princes' skills.
Arjun's mastery in archery had become a legend, a topic whispered in admiration in every household.
The princes were to assemble at the Kalapradarshan ground before entering the palace.
Rajmata Kunti and Maharani Gandhari waited eagerly, their eyes scanning the crowd for a glimpse of their sons. Dushala, the youngest, could hardly contain her excitement.
The competition began.
The princes battled each other in a display of strength, strategy, and skill.
At one point, Yudhisthir faced Duryodhana. The fight escalated when Duryodhana made vile remarks about their mother. Enraged, Yudhisthir dropped his spear and walked away before his temper got the better of him.
Next, Bheem stepped in. But when his strikes grew too violent, Shakuni stepped in and pleaded with the elders to pull Bheem out. Despite his fury, Bheem obeyed—though reluctantly.
It was finally Arjun's turn.
He was clearly the center of attention. Not only was he already celebrated as a prodigy in warfare, but his divine looks made him a living embodiment of grace and power.
As his name was announced, the crowd erupted into thunderous cheers.
The Kauravas could hardly hide their irritation.
> "I request Kumar Arjun to come forward and be present on the Kalapradarshan ground."
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Arjun's POV:
It was finally my turn.
I had learned so much in those four years at Gurukul.
And honestly, it wasn't difficult to grow close to my four brothers. Even Sahadev's suspicions faded after a few days.
Sometimes it felt almost... familiar. Like I had already lived this life before.
The moment I stepped into the arena, I was overwhelmed.
The chants of my name. The deafening cheers of the crowd.
I swear, I almost turned and ran away.
The competition? Not that scary.
The people? Terrifying.
I knew what was coming next.
It was almost like I had memorized the script.
And as expected, I defeated Duryodhana with ease.
The crowd exploded into applause.
But amidst the cheers, a voice rang out—sharp and angry.
> "What's the point of defeating someone who fights with a mace, prince?
If you truly believe you're the greatest archer in the world, then prove it. Face me—in archery."
Ah.
Angraj Karna had entered the scene.
I tried to act composed, to maintain that classic "cool prince" demeanor.
But inside?
I was internally screaming.
Another of my childhood idols was standing right in front of me.
And just then—
Guru Drona's voice echoed across the ground:
> "But aren't you a Sutputra?
How can you fight against royal blood?"
Pitamaha Bhishma and Mahamantri Vidur nodded in agreement.
Then came the murmurs. The whispers. The sneers.
Soon the crowd began to laugh and jeer.
> "Go back, Sutputra!"
"This is no place for someone like you!"
I tried to defuse the situation. I gave Karna a soft, nervous smile—hoping it would ease the tension.
But... he misunderstood.
He thought I was mocking him.
The glare he gave me was enough to turn my blood cold.
So here we were again.
That same heartbreaking scene... replaying.
> 'Is it going to be the same as before...?'