With Arjun gone in the Lakshagraha fire, I see no point in the Swayamvar, and yet I stand here in red and gold. The handmaids say I look like an apsara. I see no reason to believe, or not believe them. How I look today is of no consequence. What matters is who wears the garland I hold in my hands. It was easier before; I was to be the great Arjun's bride. But now?

My eyes settle on a self-assured prince. Our eyes meet across the length of the arena. He bows his head and looks away politely, but I am powerless to remove my eyes from his glowing visage. I feel I can see his soul through his eyes and I know that he saw me, not the princess, nor the fire-born beauty, or the promise of a king's army. I observe him from behind the thin veil. He carries himself with the confidence of an accomplished warrior. He walks up to the center of the arena. There is some commotion behind me, but I only see the warrior walk towards me. With Arjun no longer in the picture, wasn't I free to choose my groom? Wouldn't my father be stronger with such a warrior at his side? Our eyes meet again, and this time he holds my gaze. I feel butterflies flutter in my stomach. It is an enormous effort not to go and place the garland around his neck. My mind conjures up pictures of the garland across his broad chest and his arms holding me. He pauses and looks behind him before picking up the bow. It is Duryodhana smiling encouragingly at my warrior. I look at brother Dhrishtadyumn; he stands tense, with a hand on his sword. My father seems worried, all colour drained off his face.

Karan! My warrior is Karan! " O' great warrior, before you attempt to win my hand in marriage, may I know about the dynasty you hail from?" My voice was strong and bounced off the walls of the arena. This time Karan's actions were deliberate as he looked at me. I saw my infinite love and dreams him burn up and die in his cold eyes. I take a deep breath to push back my tears and continue.

For the uninitiated: She insults Karan and refuses to let him compete. A poor Brahim, who later turns out to be Arjun wins her hand.

Jai Shri Krishna !