A Different Path

Questions

So Ashwatthama did what he always did. He swallowed the bitterness of his lonely childhood, ignored the pain of his father's complete disinterest in him, forgot about the harsh words and the cold silence, and breathed out a slow, weary sigh.

"I am sorry, Father. I was being.... unreasonable. Forgive me, please."

Dinner was tense and unsatisfying and Ashwatthama seriously regretted coming back to the house although his father's words did not really surprise him. Like, what else did he think was going to happen? His father would magically develop emotions like other mortals and confess that he missed him? That he cared for him? That he wanted him by his side?

The longing inside of him had turned into a dull ache at the pit of his stomach. He was foolish to give in to his sentiments, he really should have known better. Especially after all these years.

At some point in night, Ashwatthama left his home and wandered out. He couldn't sleep there even if he tried his best. Maybe he would just lie on the cold ground and watch the stars all night. That honestly seemed like a wonderful proposition. Anywhere but here.

As he ambled along the path, he decided to take a turn and see if Vasusena was awake.He felt a little hesitant to approach his friend at such an hour but then again, it's not like he had anywhere else to go to. Besides, if Vasusena was asleep he would simply leave him be and return home.

His friend stood outside his house, leaning against an Ashoka tree staring at the night sky. Ashwatthma knew Karna like no one did. He was aware of what every expression, every sigh, every laugh meant and so when he saw the look in his friend's eyes, his drooping shoulders and defeated posture he knew nothing had gone right.

"Karna?" He called out and his friend acknowledged his presence with the briefest of nods, before turning his gaze back to the sky.

"Beautiful night, isn't it?" Karna breathed.

"It really is."

"Father always said that every night holds a different meaning for everyone. For some, it is a time to indulge in the soft emotions of love and passion, for some it is to give in to thoughts that cannot see the light of the day, for some it is basically a chance to soak in their sorrow."

"What does tonight mean to you?" Ashwatthama questioned, standing by Karna.

Karna smiled at him. "A chance for introspection."

"How did the meeting with Duryodhana go?"

"How do you think? I suppose he was far too intoxicated so I am not sure if he will even remember I was there."

Karna rubbed the back of his neck. "I hope your mother is doing fine now. And your father too. How did your reunion go?"

"How do you think?" Ashwatthama responded drily causing Karna to laugh.