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The sun began to rise, casting a golden hue over the tranquil river near the ashram. The gentle rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds created a serene backdrop for two young boys sitting by the riverbank. Karna and Ashwathama, both 5 years old now, dangled their legs in the cool, refreshing water. This was their favorite spot-a place where they could escape their rigorous training and simply enjoy each other's company.

Ashwathama looked at Karna, his disbelief slowly turning into curiosity after hearing Karna's explanation. "Yes, but... how? How is that even possible?" he asked, his tone more earnest now.

Karna shook his head slightly. "I don't know, Ashwa. But I think... I think I can see the future?," he said, his voice filled with determination.

Then Karna placed both hands on Ashwathama's shoulders and, looking straight into his friend's eyes, asked, "Ashwa? Do you..." he hesitated, then continued, "Do you believe me?"

Ashwathama looked at Karna, searching his eyes for any hint of doubt....

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So, my dear readers, you must be wondering what led to this conversation between Karna and Ashwathama, right? Let's delve into the events that unfolded.

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THE WEIGHT OF A CURSE

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The arrow struck true, mortally wounding Rishi Kindama, who transformed back into his human form with his dying breath. Pandu's heart sank as he realized the grave mistake he had made. "Rishi Kindama?" he exclaimed in disbelief, dropping to his knees beside the sage.

The dying sage, his voice weak yet filled with sorrow and righteous anger, addressed Pandu sternly. "Maharaj Pandu, your thoughtless act has brought great sorrow upon me and my beloved. For this grave transgression, I curse you. Just as you have caused our untimely death, so too shall you meet your end when you seek the embrace of your wives."

Pandu pleaded for mercy, his voice choked with remorse. "Rishi Kindama, forgive me," he implored, "I did not intend harm upon you or your wife. It was a tragic mistake."

But the curse had been spoken, and Rishi Kindama's words could not be undone. With a heavy heart, he uttered the fateful words that would shape Pandu's destiny forever. "May you perish the moment you seek the embrace of your wives."

Hearing the curse from Rishi Kindama, Pandu knew it could not be undone. He got up and turned to see Kunti and Madri looking at him with tears in their eyes. They had witnessed what happened and were heartbroken hearing the curse.

Pandu gathered his courage and said, "Let's go back to the palace for now." Both Kunti and Madri just nodded, and they made their way back to the palace.

Back at the palace, Vidur's chariot was just entering the gates. He was deep in thought about what Jarasandha had said to him. While he was lost in his thoughts, he heard another chariot entering the palace and saw that it was Pandu who had returned.

Immediately, Vidur got down and rushed to Pandu to share the details about his conversation with Jarasandha about Aditya. But he saw that Pandu got down from the chariot and was rushing inside quickly.

Vidur tried to call Pandu, "Bhrata Pandu!" he shouted, trying to stop him, but Pandu had already left.

He then turned his attention to Kunti and Madri, who were getting down from the chariot. Vidur could see they both were not happy. So he asked them, "Bhabhi shree, did something happen? Why did Bhrata Pandu leave in such a hurry?"

Both Kunti and Madri exchanged glances, but it was Kunti who spoke first. "Vidur, Arya will tell everyone himself. But why were you calling Arya in such a hurry? Is it something important?"

Vidur then said, "Yes, Bhabhi shree, it's regarding Aditya. You remember we said that someone attacked him and that's why we sent him away from Hastinapur for some time?"

Both nodded, and Madri asked, "Did you find out who is behind the attack?"

Vidur replied, "Not exactly, but there's something I want to discuss with Bhrata and Tatshree."

Kunti said, "I will convey your message to Arya." And they both took their leave, going to where Pandu was.

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Inside the palace, Pandu's thoughts were a whirlwind of guilt, fear, and sorrow. The curse weighed heavily on his mind. "How could I have been so careless? My actions have not only brought suffering upon myself but upon my family as well," he thought. The image of Rishi Kindama's dying face haunted him, the sage's words echoing in his mind: "May you perish the moment you seek the embrace of your wives."

Pandu felt a deep sense of despair. "How can I continue to live knowing that any moment of intimacy could bring my death and leave Kunti and Madri alone? How can I face them, knowing the sorrow I have brought upon our family?" His thoughts were interrupted by the soft sound of footsteps.

Kunti and Madri entered the chamber, their faces etched with concern. They found Pandu standing by the window, staring out into the distance, lost in his turmoil.

Kunti approached him gently. "Arya," she said softly, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder, "we are here. We will face this together."

Madri joined her, standing by Pandu's other side. "Whatever happens, we are with you," she added, her voice full of determination.

Pandu turned to look at them, his eyes filled with unshed tears. "How can you stand by me after what I have done? I have brought nothing but pain and suffering to you both," he said, his voice breaking.

Kunti shook her head. "Arya, it was an accident. We know your heart, and we know you did not mean to harm anyone. We will find a way to overcome this," she said, her voice steady and full of conviction.

Madri nodded in agreement. "We will not let this curse destroy our family. We will find a way to live with it," she said firmly.

Pandu felt a glimmer of hope at their words, but the weight of the curse still pressed heavily on his heart. He took a deep breath, steadying himself. "There is something I must do," he said, his voice filled with resolve. "I have decided to leave for the forest to repent for my sins."

Kunti and Madri looked at him, shocked. "Arya, you cannot be serious," Kunti said, her voice trembling. "You do not need to punish yourself this way. We can find another solution."

Pandu shook his head. "No, Kunti. This is something I must do. The curse cannot be undone, and I cannot risk bringing death upon myself and leaving you both alone. In the forest, I can live a life of penance and perhaps find some peace."

Madri stepped forward, her eyes filled with determination. "If you are leaving for the forest, then we will come with you," she said firmly.

Pandu's eyes widened in surprise. "No, Madri. You and Kunti must stay here. The palace is your home, and you will be safe here."

Kunti stepped beside Madri, her expression equally resolute. "Arya, our place is with you. We are your wives, and we will not abandon you. Wherever you go, we will follow," she declared.

Pandu looked at them, his heart heavy with love and sorrow. "I do not deserve your loyalty," he said softly.

Kunti took his hand, her grip firm and reassuring. "It is not about deserving, Arya. It is about love and duty. We are a family, and we will face this together," she said.

Madri nodded in agreement. "We will find a way to live with this curse, and we will support each other through it all," she added.

Pandu felt tears welling in his eyes. "I am truly blessed to have you both," he said, his voice choked with emotion. "If you are determined to come with me, then we will leave together."

Before they left the chamber to inform the rest of the family, Kunti remembered Vidur's words. She turned to Pandu, "Arya, earlier Vidur was calling you. He said he wants to talk about something related to Putra Aditya."

Hearing Aditya's name, Pandu immediately asked, "What is it? Did Vidur say anything? Did he find anything?" For a moment, his concern for Aditya overshadowed his pain and decision to leave for the forest.

Kunti shook her head. "No, he just said he has to talk to both you and Tatshree about something."

Pandu nodded, his love and concern for Aditya evident in his eyes. "Let's go. I will speak with him before we leave," he said, his voice filled with a renewed sense of purpose.

With their decision made, Pandu, Kunti, and Madri left the chamber to inform the rest of the family about the curse and their decision to leave for the forest. They knew that their love and unity would give them the strength to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

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Pandu stood in the center of the family room, Kunti and Madri by his side. His heart was heavy, but he knew he had to face his family and explain his decision. One by one, the members of the royal family entered the room.

Bhishma, his face stern but concerned, was the first to arrive. Satyavati followed closely, her eyes filled with worry. Ambika and Gandhari, now pregnant, was carefully guided by Ambalika, supporting each other. Next came Dritarashtra. Vidur was the last to enter, his expression serious as he glanced at Pandu, sensing the gravity of the situation.

Pandu waited until everyone was seated before he spoke, his voice filled with a mixture of regret and determination. "I have gathered you all here to share some grave news and my decision regarding it," he began, taking a deep breath to steady himself. "During our hunting trip, I unintentionally killed Rishi Kindama and his wife, who were in the form of deer. In his dying moments, Rishi Kindama cursed me. He cursed that the moment I seek the embrace of my wives, I shall meet my end."

Gasps of shock and sorrow filled the room. Bhishma's stern expression softened, and Satyavati's eyes widened in disbelief. Ambika and Ambalika exchanged worried glances, while Gandhari clutched Dritarashtra's arm for support. Vidur remained silent, his face reflecting deep concern.

Pandu continued, his voice carrying the weight of his decision. "I cannot risk bringing this curse upon myself and my family. Therefore, I must renounce the throne and live in the forest, where I can repent for my actions and seek solace."

Bhishma, ever the pillar of wisdom and strength, spoke up after a moment of solemn silence. "Pandu, this curse is indeed grave, but renouncing the throne is not the only path available to us. There may be other ways to mitigate its effects, to protect you and the kingdom."

Satyavati nodded in agreement, her voice filled with concern. "Indeed, Pandu. There must be a solution. We cannot allow you to leave, to abandon your duties and your family."

Ambalika, the mother of Pandu, was the first to speak, her voice quivering with emotion. "Putra, don't make such decisions so hastily. We can find a solution to this."

Pandu turned to his mother, his expression pained but resolute. "Mata, how can I stay here in peace after what I've done? Please, Mata, I need to repent for my sins. For that, I must leave behind this luxury and live a life of penance, like a sage. Renouncing the throne is best. How can I lead the kingdom knowing that I have taken innocent lives?"

Ambika, the mother of Dhritarashtra, stepped forward, her eyes filled with concern. "Putra, what happened was an accident. You did not do it intentionally. Please, reconsider your decision."

Pandu shook his head. "Mata, even if it was a mistake, I have committed a sin. I can only find peace and atone if I do this. Please, let me go."

He then turned to Dhritarashtra, who was silent. "Jyesth," Pandu said.

Dhritarashtra, tears welling up in his sightless eyes, took a deep breath and spoke with a voice filled with resolve. "Pandu, as your elder brother, I must implore you to reconsider. Our family needs you, the kingdom needs you. Your sense of duty and righteousness has always been your strength. Abandoning the throne and your responsibilities will not ease your guilt. Instead, channel that guilt into actions that will benefit our people and uphold dharma. Stay and rule with the wisdom and compassion that you possess. Do not leave us to bear this burden alone. WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER, BROTHER, and your presence is vital for all of us."

Pandu looked at Dhritarashtra, the weight of his brother's words settling heavily on him. "Jyesth, I understand your concerns, and I share your love for our family and our kingdom. But the curse I carry is a constant reminder of my transgressions. I fear that my presence here will bring more harm than good. The curse will not allow me to live a normal life, and my constant state of agitation and guilt will affect everyone around me. The forest offers me a chance to atone for my sins, to find peace within myself. I did not take this decision lightly, but I believe it is the path I must follow."

Gandhari, who had been listening quietly, stepped forward, her face lined with concern. "Pandu," she began, her voice soft yet firm, "you have always been a pillar of strength for our family. The curse you bear is indeed heavy, but abandoning your responsibilities is not the solution. You are not alone in this. We are all here to support you. Together, we can find a way to cope with this burden. DO NOT LET THIS CURSE DICTATE YOUR LIFE AND THE LIVES OF THOSE WHO LOVE YOU. Stay with us, and let us face these challenges together."

Pandu looked at Gandhari, his expression conflicted. "Bhabhi Shree, your words mean a great deal to me. I know you speak from a place of love and wisdom. But the guilt I carry is not just a personal burden; it affects the entire kingdom. I fear that my presence here, under this curse, will only bring misfortune to those around me. I need to find a way to atone for my actions, to seek forgiveness from the heavens. The forest offers me a chance to live a life of penance, away from the distractions and duties of the throne. It is a painful decision, but one that I believe is necessary for the greater good. Please understand that this is the only way I can find peace within myself and perhaps mitigate the effects of the curse on our family and our kingdom."

Pandu looked around at his beloved family, each face reflecting love, concern, and a shared burden of sorrow. He turned to Kunti and Madri, their eyes silently pleading for him to reconsider.

Kunti and Madri exchanged a glance filled with understanding and unwavering support. "We will go with you, Arya," Kunti said firmly, her voice resolute. "Wherever you go, we will be by your side."

Madri nodded in agreement. "Yes, Arya. We are your wives, and we will face this together, whatever comes."

Bhishma and Vidur exchanged a knowing look, silently acknowledging the resolve in Pandu's decision. "If this is your final decision, Pandu," Bhishma said with a heavy heart, "then we will honor it. But know that we will do everything in our power to support you and ensure the kingdom's stability."

Pandu nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Tatshree, for your understanding and support."

With that, Pandu embraced each member of his family, feeling a mix of sadness and determination. Together, they would face the challenges ahead, bound by love, duty, and a shared commitment to each other's well-being.

Turning to Vidur, Pandu continued, "VIDUR, CAN YOU GO AND BRING ADITYA BACK? I WANT TO SEE HIM ONE LAST TIME BEFORE I LEAVE," his voice filled with love for Aditya.

Hearing the words "one last time" from Pandu's mouth, Ambalika immediately asked, "What do you mean, one last time?"

Pandu took a deep breath. "I don't want him to come to see me again in the forest. If he comes, I may not be able to stay there in peace, always worrying about him." He continued, hesitating slightly looking at kunti, "And I want Kunti," he stopped briefly, then continued, "and Madri to meet Aditya as well before we leave."

Satyavati spoke with authority, "Vidur, you should go now and bring Aditya back. Explain the situation to Rishi Bharadwaja." Vidur nodded and left the room.

Seeing Vidur leave, Pandu suddenly remembered Kunti's words and rushed after him, calling out, "Vidur!"

Vidur stopped and turned back, seeing Pandu approaching. "Bhrata Pandu?"

Pandu, panting, asked, "Kunti said you wanted to talk about something related to Aditya. Did you find anything? You went to Kosala and Magadha, right?"

Vidur, torn between the truth of warning of Jarasandha and his desire to protect Pandu from further distress, chose his words carefully. "NO, BHRATA, I DID NOT FIND ANYTHING."

Pandu looked into Vidur's eyes, sensing his hesitation. "DID YOU REALLY NOT FIND ANYTHING? WHO IS AFTER ADITYA?"

Vidur shook his head. "NO."

Little did Vidur know that if he had told Pandu about Jarasandha's warning concerning Andhaka Van and the powerful asura, Pandu might have reconsidered his decision to leave and STAYED to PROTECT Aditya.

Pandu sighed, accepting Vidur's words for now. "Bring Aditya back soon."

Vidur nodded and left, thinking to himself, "Sorry, Bhrata. I don't want to burden you with more problems. Once I return with Aditya, I will talk to Tatshree about what Jarasandha said and what to do next."

As Vidur departed to bring back Aditya, the atmosphere in the room remained thick with unspoken sorrow and the looming departure of a beloved king.

The family room was filled with a solemn yet supportive atmosphere as Pandu's decision settled among them. Each member of the royal family now faced the reality of Pandu's curse and his chosen path of penance in the forest.

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Vidur's chariot rolled to a stop outside the serene surroundings of Rishi Bharadwaja's ashram. The air was thick with the scent of flowers and the sounds of birds chirping. As Vidur stepped out, he was greeted by a disciple who led him to where Rishi Bharadwaja and the other Sapta Rishis were assembled.

Vidur bowed respectfully. "Rishi Bharadwaja, revered Rishis," he began, his voice carrying the weight of urgency and respect. "I come with a heavy heart and an urgent request."

Rishi Bharadwaja gestured for him to continue. "Vidur, what brings you here?"

Vidur recounted the recent events-the tragic hunting accident, the curse of Rishi Kindama, and Pandu's decision to renounce the throne and live in the forest. The Sapta Rishis listened intently, their expressions reflecting their understanding of the gravity of the situation.

After Vidur finished, Rishi Atri spoke first, his voice gentle but firm. "It is indeed a sorrowful tale, Vidur. We grieve for Maharaj Pandu and the curse laid upon him."

Rishi Vishwamitra added, "Karna, has been learning under us and has shown great determination. He has dedicated himself to his studies and has promised not to leave until we deem his education complete."

Vidur's heart swelled with mixed emotions. He was proud of Karna's achievements but conflicted about taking him away. "DO I HAVE TO GO BACK WITHOUT KARNA?" he thought.

The Rishis called for Karna, and soon Karna arrived with Ashwathama. Seeing Vidur, Karna's face lit up with joy, and he rushed to hug him. "Kakashree, you're here!"

Vidur embraced him warmly. "Putra, I came here to take you back, but Rishi Bharadwaja said you are learning under the Sapta Rishis."

Karna nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, Kakashree. This year has been incredible. I learned so many things, starting with the basics of all weapons, and Rishi Vishwamitra and Rishi Bharadwaja is teaching me archery, which is my favorite. I even made my own bow!"

Vidur smiled, pleased to see Karna's progress. "That's wonderful, Karna. But I have something important to say. The reason I came here is urgent. Please hear me out and then decide if you want to come back or not, okay?"

Sensing the seriousness in Vidur's tone, Karna nodded. Vidur glanced at Ashwathama, who understood and started to leave, but Karna held his hand. "Ashwa, where are you going?"

Understanding the bond between the two boys, Vidur allowed Ashwathama to stay. Ashwathama sat back beside Karna, and Vidur began recounting everything that had transpired since Karna left for the ashram. He spoke of Pandu attending the swayamvara, HIS MARRIAGES TO KUNTI AND MADRI, the Digvijaya Yatra, and finally, the hunting accident in the forest and THE CURSE OF RISHI KINDAMA.

(A/N - All this happened in one year so that means it's already one year since karna came to ashram and he is 5 years old now. And Gandhari is pregnant now like 3 months? Hope you got clarity.)

Vidur's voice trembled slightly as he spoke of Pandu's decision to leave for the forest. "Bhrata Pandu has decided to renounce the throne and live as a hermit. He wishes to atone for his sins and believes this is the only way."

Karna listened, tears welling up in his eyes. He had learned to control his emotions during his time at the ashram, but the news of his Chote Pitashree's fate broke his heart. He took a deep breath, controlling his tears, and said, "Kakashree, I cannot leave until my education is complete." He paused, his voice heavy with emotion. "I am sorry. I am not going to come with you."

With that, he rushed outside, running towards the river, Ashwathama calling after him. Vidur watched him go, his heart aching for the young boy.

Rishi Bharadwaja stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on Vidur's shoulder. "Give him time, Vidur. You can leave tomorrow. Perhaps he will change his decision."

Rishi Vashishta added, "We leave the choice to him. He can stay and complete his learning under us or leave. It is his decision."

Vidur nodded, understanding the wisdom in their words. "Thank you, revered Rishis. I will wait until tomorrow."

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The Sapta Rishis and Vidur watched as Karna and Ashwathama disappeared into the trees, hoping that the young boy would find clarity and peace in his heart.

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Ashwathama found Karna sitting by the river, his legs submerged in the cool water. Without a word, he sat beside his friend, offering silent support. The gentle sounds of the river and the chirping of birds filled the silence between them.

After a while, Karna spoke, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "Ashwa, should I go back?"

Ashwathama looked at Karna and replied, "If you want, you can. And I will come with you," he said with a reassuring smile.

Karna shook his head. "If I leave, then my education under the Sapta Rishis will be incomplete. Do you think Chote Pitashree will be happy if he finds out?"

Ashwathama thought for a moment. "No, he will not be happy," he admitted. "Mitra Karna, one more year. When we go back, we can meet Maharaj Pandu and tell him everything we've learned here." He paused, then continued, "Even though the Sapta Rishis gave you a choice, think about their commitment to teaching us. If you leave now, is that right?"

Karna nodded slowly. "No, and I GAVE MY WORD. How can I break it?"

Ashwathama nodded in agreement. They stayed by the river until Karna fell asleep under a tree, with Ashwathama keeping watch beside him.

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The next day, sun began to rise, casting a golden hue over the tranquil river near the ashram. The gentle rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds created a serene backdrop for two young boys sitting by the riverbank. Karna and Ashwathama, both 5 years old now, dangled their legs in the cool, refreshing water. This was their favorite spot-a place where they could escape their rigorous training and simply enjoy each other's company.

Ashwathama was busy skipping stones across the surface, watching the ripples spread out in concentric circles. Karna, on the other hand, stared into the distance, his usually bright eyes shadowed with something deeper.

Breaking the peaceful silence, Karna finally spoke, his voice barely above a whisper. "Mitra Ashwa, are you even listening to what I am saying?"

Ashwathama turned, his attention fully on his best friend now. "What is it, Mitra Karna?" he asked, sensing the seriousness in Karna's tone.

Karna hesitated, then sighed. "I've told you this already, but you keep asking me to repeat it," he said, a touch of exasperation in his voice.

Ashwathama's eyes widened in mock disbelief. "I heard what you said and it is something impossible, so i am asking you repeat it again" he asked, his voice dripping with playful incredulity.

Karna rolled his eyes and sighed again, knowing his friend was teasing him but playing along nonetheless. "MITRA ASHWA, I THINK... I CAN SEE THE FUTURE," he repeated patiently.

Ashwathama's reaction was immediate. He gasped dramatically, placing a hand on his chest. "Are you serious? You think you can see the future? Are you sure you're not just making this up?" he asked, his tone a mix of playful disbelief and genuine curiosity.

Karna met his friend's eyes, his expression serious. "Yes, Ashwa, I'm serious. Remember, the dream I told you... it was too vivid, too detailed," he said, his voice filled with a mixture of uncertainty and conviction.

Then Karna, after a pause, continued, "And you heard everything, right? You remember? I said Rishi Kindama is the one who cursed Chote Pitashree right? Whatever I saw in the dream matches what Kakashree said."

Ashwathama looked at Karna, his disbelief slowly turning into curiosity after hearing Karna's explanation. "Yes, I remember... You said Rishi Kindama, two ladies, and Maharaj Pandu going to forest... and it matches everything Mahamantri Vidur said. But... how? How is that even possible?" he asked, his tone more earnest now.

Karna shook his head slightly. "I don't know, Ashwa. But I think... I think I can see the future?" he said, his voice filled with determination.

Karna placed both hands on Ashwathama's shoulders and, looking straight into his friend's eyes, asked, "Ashwa? Do you..." he hesitated, then continued, "Do you believe me?"

Ashwathama looked at Karna, searching his eyes for any hint of doubt. But all he saw was the unwavering conviction of his best friend. Ashwathama could see how much it mattered to Karna, how deeply he wanted his friend to trust him.

But before he could reply, Rishi Bharadwaja appeared, twisting Ashwathama's ear. "What are you doing here when I am searching everywhere for you?"

Ashwathama yelped, "Aahhhh, Pitamaha!" then quickly corrected himself, "I mean, Gurudev, leave me, please!"

Rishi Bharadwaja released his ear and said sternly, "You are wasting time again. I told you right that today you will do Karna's work as well since he will be with Vidur." He turned to Karna, who was smiling at his friend's plight. "Putra Karna, you should go meet your Kakashree. He will be leaving soon," he said kindly.

Ashwathama muttered, "You talk so sweetly with him, but when it comes to me-" He cut himself off with another yelp as Rishi Bharadwaja twisted his ear again. "Gurudev, I will not say anything, leave me!"

Rishi Bharadwaja instructed, "Complete both your and Karna's work by the time I come back, Otherwise I will kick you out of Ashram" and then left.

As Karna was about to leave, Ashwathama called out, "Mitra Karna,"

Karna had confided in him about his dreams and Karna saying that he could not tell anything to anyone except him - remembering this

Ashwathama said, "If you cannot tell the reason, at least tell your Kakashree to stop Maharaj Pandu from going to the forest. You know what happened there, right? So maybe if Maharaj Pandu does not go to the forest, we can stop it?"

Karna smiled widely and asked, "Ashwa, you believe me? What I said?"

Ashwathama, with a smile, said, "Mitra, even though what you said sounds so stupid, like you seeing the future, you are my friend, so I believe you. And I will even trust you with my life."

Karna's smile widened, then Ashwathama said, "Go and at least try your best to stop Maharaj Pandu from going, okay?"

Karna nodded and left.

Ashwathama, after Karna left, started his work, muttering to himself, "MAYBE I SHOULD ASK MITRA TO SEE MY FUTURE FOR TOMORROW? WILL PITAMAH REALLY KICK ME OUT?" and continued fetching water.

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Karna found Vidur by his chariot, readying for the journey back to Hastinapur. Vidur looked up with a smile as Karna approached.

"Kakashree," Karna greeted, his voice steady yet urgent.

"Putra Karna," Vidur replied warmly. "Have you made your decision?"

Karna nodded. "Yes, but not as you might expect." He took a deep breath, his eyes reflecting determination. "Kakashree, I cannot leave until my education here is complete. But... I cannot let Chote Pitashree go to the forest either. Please, listen to me and convey my words to him."

Vidur nodded in understanding, ready to hear karna out.

Karna took another deel breath, recalling the teachings of Sage Vishwamitra. He spoke with conviction, his words carrying the weight of ancient wisdom. "Kakashree, Rishi Vishwamitra once taught me a sloka: 'karmanaiva hi samsiddhim asthita janakaadayah' - through his actions alone, King Janaka and others achieved perfection." Karna paused, recalling Vishwamitra's explanation. "He taught me that even amidst ruling a kingdom, Janaka performed his duties with such righteousness that he attained spiritual perfection." Then, turning to Vidur, he urged, "So tell Chote Pitashree that there are other ways to atone for his sin. He can engage in charitable works, build temples, and perform yajnas while continuing to rule. Renouncing the throne is not the only path to repentance. He can seek forgiveness through his actions and dedication to dharma and righteousness while still being the king."

Vidur listened attentively, absorbing Karna's message and the sloka that encapsulated it. "I will tell Bhrata Pandu," Vidur assured him.

But Karna interrupted with urgency, "If Chote Pitashree still does not change his Decision, then ask him to consider his wives and sons. How will they live in the forest, and grow up without knowing about the family in Hastinapur?"

Vidur tried to interject, concern etched on his face. "Putra, the curse Bhrata Pandu recieved means he cannot have children of his own," his said sadly, hoping Karna would understand the gravity of Pandu's curse.

Karna closed his eyes briefly, trying to recall every detail of his dream. The image of five children standing in front of his Chote Pitashree's pyre, and a woman, likely Madri, committing sati, was vivid and clear replaying in his mind.

"No, Kakashree," Karna said with deep conviction. "Please tell him what I said. Tell Chote Pitashree the importance of family. CHILDREN NEED THEIR FATHER'S GUIDANCE AND PROTECTION. They deserve to be surrounded by their family."

Vidur nodded thoughtfully, seeing the wisdom in Karna's words and the pain in his heart. He knew the weight of Karna's plea and the importance of family bonds.

As Vidur climbing his chariot to leave, Karna's voice grew more emotional. "Kakashree," he continued, his voice breaking slightly. "If all else fails... tell Chote Pitashree that I will never speak to him again if he goes to the forest. I know I sound immature, but sometimes, a stubborn heart can convey what words alone cannot. Please, just tell him this."

Vidur looked at Karna, seeing the fierce determination and love in his eyes. "I will convey your words, Putra," he promised with resolve. "Let us hope that Bhrata Pandu will reconsider his decision."

Feeling a glimmer of hope amidst his apprehension, Karna nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Kakashree."

However, no matter what Karna's message would be, Pandu will remain firm in his resolve to seek penance in the forest. His sense of guilt and desire for atonement were too strong to be swayed by mere words...

The Only thing that could potentially change Pandu's decision was if Vidur revealed the warning from Jarasandha about the threat on Karna... Just like Karna said "Children need their father's guidance and PROTECTION. - So if Pandu knows Karna is in danger he will definitely try to protect Karna Am i right?🤔"

Yet, would Vidur choose to burden his brother with this knowledge, risking further turmoil in his brother's already troubled heart? Only time will tell...

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To be continued...

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How is the chapter?

Do you think Vidur will tell Pandu about Jarasandha's warning? Should he tell OR not? What do you think? 🤔

Guys, what happened? Are you not liking the story the way it's going? I don't see a good response from you. :(

If you like the story, then at least vote... and comment if you want. I won't set any target for votes. If you vote for my story, then I'll know you genuinely love it. ❤️

Don't forget to vote for the chapters written so far!!!! And stay tuned for next chapter....