Karna's POV:
> "Angraj, can I talk to you?"
It was Arjun.
To say I was surprised would be an understatement.
Just this morning, he refused to fight me because of my caste. And now suddenly, he wants to have a conversation?
> "I didn't know we had something to talk about, Kumar. Are you even allowed to speak with someone of my caste?"
I let the sarcasm drip from my voice.
He sighed.
> "Angraj Karna, I think you've misunderstood something. I have nothing against your caste. I never did."
Now that I think about it… he never actually said anything about my caste. He didn't insult me directly. He just… refused to fight. Still, what difference does it make?
> "But your bhrata Bheem might not approve of you talking to me. And honestly, I'm not thrilled about the idea either."
He looked… hurt. Like a sulking child. Is he always this emotional?
> "Angraj Karna, I apologize on my brother's behalf. He's not a bad person—but I know that doesn't undo what happened. It was the heat of the moment. And if I may say… your friend wasn't exactly kind with his words either."
> "Kumar Arjun!"
I interrupted sharply.
"Don't you dare say anything against my mitra in front of me. He gave me respect, when no one else did.
Why are you even here? Trying to earn my trust because of my kavach and kundal? Trying to get on my good side now that you've seen what I'm capable of?
I didn't take you for a political player, Arjun. But don't assume I'll betray my mitra so easily."
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Arjun's POV:
His words were sharp—poisoned with pain—but they weren't unreasonable.
He's been insulted his whole life. I'm just another target for his rage. But would he be saying all this… if he knew I'm not just another royal rival, but his own younger brother?
> "Angraj Karna," I said quietly.
"You're just trying to find reasons to hate me now. I truly had no ill intent.
Be friends with the Kauravas if you wish—I understand your loyalty.
But… must there be enmity between us?
Can't we just stop this before it turns into something worse?"
He laughed—a cold, hollow sound.
> "Maybe you're right, Kumar Arjun.
Maybe we could've avoided all this.
If only you had stood up for me—back on your first day of Gurukul.
But you didn't.
You didn't even stand up for me today, when I was being humiliated in front of the entire court.
Where were you then?"
Silence.
He was right.
And I had no defense.
He turned away—and just like that, he left me standing there.
Alone.
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> 'Where are you, Sakha? I'm messing everything up. I need your guidance…'
---
Meanwhile…
From far away, Madhav smiled gently.
He had seen everything.
He always does.
> "Don't worry, Parth. I'll be there… when the time is right.
There is more hidden than you realize.
You don't know the whole truth yet."
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