17 The scales released
Not for the first time in his life Karna noticed that when his routine of practice with the bow was disrupted, as it had been during his stay in Anga, his sleep became troubled.
Now that he was back in Hastinapura and able to practice every day, his sleep became more settled. He returned also to his daily routine at the river.
Karna’s absence had done nothing to lessen his reputation among those in need. On the contrary, a rumour had spread that he had vowed never to refuse a request to the person he found on his stone after his swim and yoga. But now that he no longer had the wealth of Anga to disburse, he found that he would often have to send his supplicant away disappointed, if not empty-handed.
Though there now seemed less demand for his material charity amo
