‘I’m used to it, sire.’
‘I think you should allow yourself to shine before you face the dark... Drona is planning an exhibition, isn’t he? A couple of years, is it?’
‘More like three, sire. Yes, it’s a tournament. I think it’ll coincide with Arjuna’s eighteenth birthday.’
‘How is Arjuna coming on?’
‘Very well... He’s a brilliant warrior. Oh yes, they’ll love him at the tournament. He’s wonderful to watch.’
‘Why don’t you wait until then, my boy? Wait until after the tournament to go to Parashu. I know your parents will want to see you.’
‘At the tournament? But even if Drona lets me participate ―’
‘He will not stop you. If necessary, Kripa will see to that.’
‘Yes, but even so... It’s just a show, sire. It means nothing. I don’t want to take part, I don’t need to take part, and even
