Chapter 14: Return To Varanasi

The journey back to Varanasi felt longer than before, weighed down by the gravity of all they had learned. As they descended from the Mahendra Mountains, Rihan kept replaying the recent events in his mind—his encounter with Ashwatthama, the revelations of his past life, and the looming threat of Andhakasura.

Maya walked beside him in silence, the same thoughts likely swirling in her mind. The mountain paths eventually gave way to the roads that would lead them back to New Varanasi. The juxtaposition of the ancient mountains with the cutting-edge cityscape made Rihan feel like he was walking between two worlds, much like his life had become—caught between the past and the present.

By the time they reached the city, the sky had taken on the deep blue of dusk. The streets of New Varanasi were as lively as ever, neon lights reflecting off the polished surfaces of the towering skyscrapers. The ancient temples nestled within the modern infrastructure seemed almost otherworldly in their stoic beauty.

Rihan glanced at Maya. "Back to where it all started," he said, half to himself.

Maya nodded. "Feels strange, doesn't it? After everything we've been through, the city almost feels… different."

Rihan agreed silently. The market district was bustling with people, but the noise seemed distant as they navigated through the crowds. They weren't the same people who had left Varanasi days ago—both had changed in ways they were only beginning to understand.

When they reached Dr. Ravi's research center, the atmosphere inside was quiet and focused, a stark contrast to the chaotic energy of the streets outside. Dr. Ravi was in his usual spot, sitting by a console filled with data screens. His unseeing eyes seemed to gaze through the information, as though he could see beyond the physical world.

"Welcome back," Dr. Ravi said, his voice calm but tinged with curiosity. "I sense you've uncovered many truths on your journey."

"We have," Rihan replied, sitting down across from him. Maya took a seat beside him, her face still reflecting the weight of their discoveries.

Rihan leaned forward, his tone serious. "But we need more answers. I need to know more about my past life as Karna. I remember the war, the battles, and the teachings of Parshuram—but I don't remember my personal life. Who I was beyond the battlefield."

Dr. Ravi nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Memory is a complex thing, especially when it spans lifetimes. It's not unusual that your memories are fragmented. War often overshadows the more personal aspects of life, especially for someone like Karna, who was defined by conflict."

Maya added, "We were hoping you could help us find more—anything that could fill in the blanks."

Dr. Ravi remained silent for a moment, then turned toward them. "There may be a way. But it's not without risk. Memories of a past life are like echoes—they fade over time unless something ties them to the present."

Rihan's gaze hardened with determination. "I'm willing to take the risk."

Dr. Ravi nodded. "There's an ancient technique, used by sages long ago. It's said to help unlock forgotten memories. But to perform it, you'll need to undergo a process that dives deep into your consciousness. It may be disorienting, even painful."

Maya looked at Rihan with concern. "Are you sure about this? We've already faced so much. I don't want to lose you to something like this."

Rihan placed a reassuring hand on hers. "I need to know who I was—not just the warrior, but the man behind the armor. It's the only way I can fully understand what's at stake."

Dr. Ravi gave a slow nod. "Very well. But before we proceed, there's something you should know."

Rihan and Maya exchanged glances as Dr. Ravi continued. "Parshuram declined to come with you because he understands the dangers of being too involved with those of the Kaliyuga. He believes that his teachings and powers are meant for the final avatar of Vishnu—Kalki. Until then, he will remain in isolation."

Rihan absorbed this information, feeling a pang of disappointment, but also understanding. "I respect his decision. But it means we're on our own from here."

"Not entirely," Dr. Ravi said, his voice steady. "You still have the knowledge you've gained, the allies you've made, and the strength within you. That will be enough."

Maya squeezed Rihan's hand lightly, offering silent support.

Dr. Ravi stood, moving toward a shelf filled with ancient texts. He carefully selected one, bound in worn leather, and brought it to the table. "This contains the instructions for the memory ritual. You'll need to prepare yourself. Once you begin, there's no turning back."

Rihan nodded, his resolve firm. "I'm ready."

As Dr. Ravi began explaining the process, Rihan's mind wandered briefly. He couldn't shake the feeling that his journey was only just beginning, that every answer would lead to more questions. But whatever the future held, he knew he had to face it head-on. For the sake of those who depended on him, for the memories of his past, and for the uncertain future that awaited them all.