The sun rose lazily over the horizon, casting a golden glow upon the forest. The Pandya siblings, accompanied by Guru Drona's disciples, continued their journey towards the capital of Kuntibhoj. The air was crisp with the promise of a new day, and the sounds of nature filled the surroundings—a soothing melody that seemed to guide their steps.

Hrisha glanced at her companions, their footsteps being the only sound in the otherwise silent forest. Arjuna walked beside her and her brother, holding his long bow with reverence. Behind them, Nakula and Sahadev were talking softly to each other, holding their weapons in hand.

"Thank you for accompanying us," Vrihatkshatra said, his head inclined in gratitude.

"You don't have to thank us; it is our duty, scion of Pandya," Arjuna replied.

"You took the time out of your day and helped us, son of Pritha. You weren't obliged to. You deserve our gratitude." Hrisha insisted.

"Perhaps you could repay us then," Nakula added, a hint of mischief in his eyes, ignoring the warning glance of his elder brother.

"How is that?"

The oldest Madreya grinned. "Perhaps you could reciprocate the hospitality if we were to visit your state."

"Certainly." The Pandya siblings smiled. "You are always welcome, scion of Kuru."

"How long have you been studying under Acharya Drona, Kaunteya?" Hrisha asked.

"It had been a few years." It was Arjuna who answered. "I am grateful we are blessed to have him as our teacher. He has taught us many things during these days, and he is an expert in Dhanurvidya."

Hrisha nodded with a smile.

"What about you, Pandyanvaya? If you don't mind my curiosity, what brought you here to Gurudev's ashram? You are from the far south, are you not?" asked Dhananjaya.

"Acharya Maharishi Brhadasva instructed us to complete a task," Hrisha replied.

Phalguna nodded in understanding.

As they walked, the daughter of Pandya held herself back from pestering the son of Pritha with questions, knowing that he was still in his gurukul days and not the famed warrior she knew. Yet she spoke to him and the youngest Pandava, asking questions about their education and practices and answering theirs. Her brother joined her, speaking at appropriate moments.

Soon, they found themselves stepping onto the border of the city. The streets were alive with the vibrant hues of silk banners fluttering in the gentle breeze, each bearing the insignia of noble houses and guilds. Market stalls brimmed with the bounty of the land—spices from distant regions, intricately woven textiles, and gleaming brassware crafted by skilled artisans.

"I believe you can travel from here by yourselves, scions of Pandya," said Arjuna.

"Indeed, Paartha, we thank you for your assistance. Please convey our respect and thanks to your guru."

They saluted each other in respect, and the disciples of Drona walked away, back to their hermitage.

"That was delightful." Hrisha commented as she stood beside her brother. He nodded, peering at her.

"Perhaps. I fail to understand your excitement, sister." Vrihatkshatra remarked. Hrisha sighed in response.

"I am from the Kaliyuga, brother. You must remember that I know of them from history."

Her brother nodded thoughtfully.

"So you must know of all of us then?"

"It is not wise to meddle with the future unless necessary, child. Do your deeds as you deem fit, not based on the outcomes." Hrisha advised, sensing his line of thought.

Vrihatksahttra nodded respectfully.

"Let us proceed to the city. Then we can continue our journey." Hrisha remarked, glancing at him, who nodded.

The siblings then walked forward, looking for suitable means of transport.