The town of Champanagri was a quaint little place in the shadow of

Hastinapurs mighty capital and its palaces. Flanked by the holy river Ganga
on one side and lush pastures on another, it was home to the suta caste of
charioteers and horse-keepers. More importantly, it was home to the family of
Karna, populary known as Radheya and now Anga-raj Karna, the Regent of
Anga.
The storm appeared to be lifting, giving way to the moon as it illuminated the
world in its gray light. The three riders took advantage of the improved
weather and the fresh mounts to speed up their pace. They had barely reached
the towns outskirts when a familiar voice hailed them.
Hello there! Wait a moment. Wait for me!.
The three riders turned as one, bringing their steeds to a halt and dismounting
to pay their respects to this middle aged man. He wore the simple clothes of a
commoner with iron bands and earrings for jewels. Though he was potbellied,
he had the massive arms and shoulders. It was almost a unique quality among
charioteers in this town and the three knew that this man in particular could
overpower even the wildest of horses into submission.
Greetings, Uncle Pratigami.
The old man raised his hands and smiled. You need not seek my blessings,
children. It does not befit the princes of Anga to bow to a charioteer. I just
wanted to give you a message for your grandfather. Have you ever seen the
princes of Hastinapur ever bow to me?
The youngest of the three laughed, Then the princes of Hastinapur are
missing out on some good fortune. We may be sons of Karna, uncle, but we are
also grandsons of Adiratha, a charioteer of this very town.
Pratigami nodded his head in mocking disappointment, You and your jokes
are never far behind, are they, Satyasena? Very well. He produced a tiny
scroll from the folds of his robe and held it out, Will you give this to your
grandfather for me? It is from your father.
Vrishasena threw an uneasy look but quickly pocketed the scroll in his belt.
Thank you, uncle. Can you tell us what has happened? His father only sent
these messages when he himself could not come home and those were the
most worrying of times as they usually meant errands for Prince Duryodhana.

I cannot say, child. Even if I did know, I would not say. All I can say is that a
great storm is coming
Vrishketu nodded in acceptance as this two younger brothers stood alert at
their brothers words being echoed. It was well known that charioteers were
silent witnesses to their masters public lives. Part of the job meant to keep
their masters secrets and do their bidding silently. And being charioteer to the
Evil Prince was no small task.
The three bowed to take their leave and resumed their pace home.