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Vidur's chariot rolled steadily toward Hastinapur, but his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts. He pondered deeply, torn between his duty to protect his nephew and his desire not to burden his already guilt-ridden brother.

Should he tell Pandu about Jarasandha's warning? He did not want to burden his brother further, especially after everything that had happened suddenly in his brother's life.

The weight of Karna's words, "children need a father's guidance and protection," echoed in his mind, adding to his internal conflict.

As the chariot approached the palace gates, Vidur made a decision. He would first convey Karna's message to Pandu. Depending on Pandu's reaction, he would then decide whether to reveal the warning from Jarasandha.

As Vidur approached the palace gates, he found everyone gathered, their expressions curious and concerned. He saw everyone's eyes searching for Karna, their faces lighting up with anticipation.

Pandu, who was conversing with Bhishma, noticed Vidur and walked over smiling, searching for Karna behind him.

"Where is Aditya?" Pandu asked, looking behind Vidur.

Vidur took a deep breath. "Bhrata Pandu, Aditya is learning under the Sapta Rishis and cannot come until he completes his education."

Hearing this, the smiles around them faded, and Pandu's face reflected a mix of pride and sadness. He smiled, albeit with a hint of sorrow. "It's okay. If he came back leaving everything just to meet me, then I would be more sad."

Pandu glanced at Kunti, his heart heavy with unspoken words. "I'm sorry, Kunti. I hoped you could meet Karna as Aditya, to see him at least once before we leave. But it seems even destiny does not want you both to meet yet."

Trying to lift the spirits of those around him, Pandu said, "Why is everyone sad? Tatshree, it's a good thing he is learning under the Sapta Rishis, right? With their wisdom and knowledge, Aditya will learn a lot."

Bhishma nodded, addressing the other royal family members. "There is no need to be sad, Pandu is right. This is a good opportunity for Aditya to gain immense knowledge."

Pandu then turned to Bhishma. "I think it's time." He started to walk away, but Vidur grabbed his hand.

"Bhrata Pandu," Vidur said urgently.

Pandu stopped, looking at Vidur's hand. "What happened, Anuj? Why did you stop me?"

"Aditya does not want you to leave everything behind like this," Vidur said.

Pandu smiled knowingly. "I know. If he knew, he would try to stop me." He paused, revealing his true feelings. "Perhaps that's why I wanted to see him. If he tried to stop me, maybe I wouldn't be able to say no."

"Bhrata, Aditya said something. Listen to me and then make your decision." Vidur recounted Karna's first message about the teachings of Rishi Vishwamitra and the importance of performing righteous duties while ruling.

Pandu smiled. "He is good with words. Although what he said is correct, I need time to forget the guilt in my heart. Even if I stay, I may not find peace."

Vidur, seeing Pandu's resolve, tried the second message. "Bhrata, Aditya asked you to consider your wives and sons. How will they live in the forest? He stressed about the importance of family. Children need their father's guidance and protection. Please think about this."

Vidur paused for a moment and then said, "Bhrata, you always see Aditya as your son, not just your nephew. Be there for him. And there is something I need to tell you about-"

Pandu cut him off. "Vidur, Aditya has you, Tatshree, Jyesth, and everyone in Hastinapur who loves him. If Aditya needs me, I will come back without a second thought. But let me go for now."

Vidur, struggling with his decision, thought to himself. "Maybe after discussing with Tatshree and others, if it's something serious, I can tell Bhrata everything. And he just said if Karna needs him, he will come back. I must respect my brother's decision, right?"

Vidur's internal conflict raged. But then so is Pandu's determination was unwavering.

Vidur remembered Karna's last message. "Bhrata, Aditya said if you leave, he will never speak to you again."

Pandu chuckled, shaking his head. "He is doing everything to stop me. Anything else he said?"

Vidur shook his head. "No, that's it. But Bhrata, he is very serious. Please reconsider your decision."

Pandu's smile faded slightly, but he remained resolute. "Vidur, although Aditya said that, I am sure once he comes back, he would meet me." He smiled again, turning to Bhishma. "Tatshree, it's time."

Pandu reminded Bhishma of their conversation. "Tatshree, I want to see Jyesth as the king officially before I leave. It is his rightful place now that I am renouncing the throne."

Bhishma nodded, addressing the other royal family. "Pandu wants Dhritharashtra to take his rightful place as king before he leaves."

Everyone agreed, though with heavy hearts. They asked Pandu, "You will come back, right?"

Pandu nodded. "If needed, I will come back."

As Vidur watched, he thought to himself. "I must respect Bhrata's decision for now. If Karna needs him, Pandu will return." Vidur's heart was heavy with the knowledge he couldn't share.

Some things, it seemed, were destined to happen, no matter how hard one tried to change them.

Despite Karna's foresight and efforts to change the future, some things were destined to happen. Even with the power to foresee events, not everything could be altered.

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The throne room was adorned with flowers and garlands, echoing the significance of the day. Courtiers, nobles, and the people of Hastinapur gathered, their expressions a mix of anticipation and sorrow. The grand throne stood at the center, awaiting its new occupant.

Pandu, with Kunti and Madri by his side, stood before the assembly. His eyes scanned the familiar faces, a heavy weight in his heart. His decision to renounce the throne and retire to the forest had been made, and now, he wished to see his elder brother assume the kingship.

"Jyesth," Pandu began, addressing Dhritharashtra who stood with Vidur. "You stepped down and made me king, a selfless act that I will never forget. But now, as I prepare to leave, I want you to take back what is rightfully yours. I want to see you officially crowned as king before I depart. I have always wished to serve you, my rightful king, but fate had other plans."

Dhritharashtra, guided by Vidur, approached Pandu. His voice was firm yet filled with emotion. "Pandu, I have always seen you as the light of our family. Your reign has brought prosperity and peace. But if this is your wish, then I will honor it. However, promise me one thing."

Pandu looked at his brother, a hint of uncertainty in his eyes. "Jyesth, I cannot make promises I may not be able to keep."

Dhritharashtra's expression turned resolute. "You said if needed, you would return. Promise me that if I call for you, you will come back."

Pandu, moved by his brother's words, nodded. "I promise, Jyesth. If you ever need me, I will return."

With this vow, the formal ceremony commenced. Bhishma stepped forward, guiding Dhritharashtra to the throne. The assembly watched in reverent silence as Dhritharashtra, with Gandhari by his side, took his rightful place as the king of Hastinapur.

As the ceremony concluded, Pandu, Kunti, and Madri made their way to the palace courtyard. The entire court and the citizens of Hastinapur gathered to bid them farewell. The atmosphere was a mix of sorrow for Pandu's departure and hope for Dhritharashtra's reign.

Pandu turned to Dhritharashtra once more. "Jyesth, rule with the same wisdom and compassion you have always shown. I know I am leaving the kingdom in capable hands."

Dhritharashtra, holding back tears, embraced Pandu. "I will. And remember your promise. You will return if needed."

Pandu nodded, his resolve firm. "I will, Jyesth. Farewell."

As Pandu, Kunti, and Madri began their journey on foot, the people of Hastinapur lined the streets, their eyes filled with respect and sadness.

Pandu, his heart heavy yet filled with a sense of fulfillment, addressed the people. "People of Hastinapur, today marks a new chapter for our kingdom. Dhritharashtra, your rightful king, will lead you with wisdom and justice. Though I leave, my heart remains with you all."

The people, though saddened by Pandu's departure, cheered for their new king. They had come to love Pandu for his fairness and strength, but they also held great respect for Dhritharashtra's wisdom and dedication.

Walking through the city gates, Pandu, Kunti, and Madri looked back one last time, taking in the sight of their beloved Hastinapur. The journey ahead was filled with uncertainty, but they carried the strength of their resolve and the love of their people.

As they disappeared into the horizon, the citizens of Hastinapur turned back towards the palace, ready to support their new king Dritharastra and face the future with unity and hope.

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After Pandu and his wives departed, Vidur turned to Bhishma and Dhritarashtra with a solemn expression. "Tatshree, Jyesth, there is something important I want to discuss," he began, his tone carrying a weight of urgency.

Bhishma, sensing the gravity in Vidur's voice, asked calmly, "What is it, Vidur?"

Vidur glanced at the royal ladies present-Satyavati, Ambika, Ambalika, and Gandhari-then gestured towards a private chamber. "Let's discuss this in private," he said quietly, indicating his reluctance to worry the ladies with their conversation.

Understanding the need for discretion, Bhishma nodded silently. Together, Vidur guided Bhishma and Dhritarashtra to a secluded chamber away from the ears of the court.

Once inside, Bhishma prompted, "Now, tell us, Vidur. What is this matter that you find difficult to discuss openly?"

Vidur took a deep breath, his voice measured yet tinged with urgency. "Tatshree, it concerns Karna."

Dhritarashtra's voice hinted with concern since he is blind. "Karna? What about him, Vidur? Is everything alright?"

Vidur began to recount his encounter with King Jarasandha of Magadha. He detailed Jarasandha's denial of involvement in the attack on Aditya but noted the king's cryptic warning about troubling rumors from Andhaka Van.

Bhishma's demeanor grew serious as he listened intently. "Andhaka Van? What did he say about it?"

"He mentioned troubling rumors from Andhaka Van-a place where a powerful Asura might be searching for a child with divine protection," Vidur explained.

"JARASANDHA SUGGESTED THAT HIDING KARNA MIGHT BE OUR BEST COURSE OF ACTION TO PROTECT HIM FROM WHOEVER IS BEHIND THE ATTACK."

Dhritarashtra's brow furrowed with concern. "If Jarasandha knows about this threat, why didn't he disclose more details? Could he be playing a deeper game?"

Bhishma nodded thoughtfully. "It's possible. Jarasandha is known for his cunning nature. This is concerning indeed." Bhishma thought for some time and then said, "Still, Jarasandha's words cannot be dismissed lightly. He may know more than he revealed."

Vidur looked to Bhishma for guidance. "What should we do next, Tatshree? Should we investigate Andhaka Van?"

Dhritarashtra, thinking carefully, answered, "Tatshree, Vidur, the attackers mentioned Andhaka Van as well. It cannot be a coincidence. We must investigate further."

Bhishma thought for a moment. "Dhritarashtra is right, this cannot be a mere coincidence. I will ask Mata about Andhaka Van. She may have knowledge about it and who this ASURA Jarasandha is talking about."

Dhritarashtra nodded, his expression grave yet hopeful. "Together, we will protect Karna from whoever is after him."

Vidur then confessed, "Tatshree, Jyesth, I did not tell Bhrata Pandu about this. With everything happening so suddenly, I didn't want to burden him with more worries."

Dhritarashtra placed a comforting hand on Vidur's shoulder. "Vidur, Pandu would forget his own problems when it comes to others, especially Karna. Burdening him further would have been unwise."

Vidur asked, with a lingering doubt in his voice, "Jyesth, Did I do the right thing?"

Dhritarashtra reassured him, "Yes Vidur, you did the right thing. Pandu's heart is noble, and he has already shouldered much. Protecting Karna falls on us now. BUT NEXT TIME, SHARE WITH THE FAMILY FIRST. REMEMBER, TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER."

Vidur embraced Dhritarashtra gratefully, a mix of relief and resolve. "Thank you, Jyesth. I understand. From now, I will not hide anything from you and Bhrata Pandu."

Bhishma, observing the bond between Vidur and Dhritarashtra, smiled softly. He watched with a sense of hope, silently wishing for the reunion of all the three brothers.

(A/n - What do you think of the bond between Dritharastra, Pandu and Vidur. Do u like them together?)

As they prepared to leave the chamber, Bhishma placed a reassuring hand on Vidur's shoulder. "You did well, Vidur. Trust in your judgment and continue to act with courage."

Vidur nodded gratefully, his heart heavy yet resolved. "Thank you, Tatshree."

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Bhishma stood by the riverbank, waiting for his mother, Devi Ganga. The serene waters flowed calmly, but his heart was troubled. He had much to discuss, and he hoped his mother could provide the guidance he desperately sought.

Devi Ganga emerged gracefully from the river, her divine presence commanding reverence. "Bhishma, you seem troubled. What brings you here?" she asked, her voice gentle yet filled with concern.

Bhishma bowed respectfully. "Mata, I must speak with you about something of grave importance."

Devi Ganga's expression grew serious. "What happened?"

Bhishma began to recount the recent events. "Mata, There was an attack on Karna. Two unknown attackers tried to harm him. We managed to thwart them. And they mentioned Andhaka Van."

Devi Ganga's eyes widened in shock and concern. "Attack? Someone attacked Karna, and you did not tell me? Why?"

Bhishma hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "Mata, I did not want to worry you unnecessarily. I believed we could handle the situation. But now, more troubling information has come to light."

Devi Ganga's gaze hardened. "How long have you known about Andhaka Van?"

"Since the attackers mentioned it," Bhishma admitted. "I knew Andhaka Van is a place cursed by the Trimurti. Speaking of it seemed like inviting trouble, so I did not take it seriously at first."

Devi Ganga's expression softened slightly, but her concern remained. "Putra, Andhaka Van is not just a cursed land. Do you know why it is cursed?"

Bhishma shook his head. "No, Mata, I do not."

Devi Ganga sighed, her voice filled with a mix of sorrow and urgency. "The land is cursed because it once harbored a powerful Asura who brought great destruction. He is not from this Yuga, but his presence alone is a dire threat."

Bhishma's brow furrowed with concern. "A powerful Asura from another Yuga? Mata, who is this Asura? How powerful he is?"

Devi Ganga's eyes reflected a distant memory. "His name is VRITRASURA. He was imprisoned long ago, and the curse has kept his malevolent presence hidden. That is the reason why it's known Andhaka - meaning hidden from the eyes of everyone, be it mortal, deva, or asura." She pauses for a moment and then continues

"He got 7 boons from tridev and tridevi's, one from each and when he asked the last boon from trimurti, they have imprisioned him for his arrogance. And just imagine, if all the asuras, mortals and devas came together to the tridev for a solution against vritrasura means u can understand how powerful he is. If he really has returned, it means something even more ominous is at play."

Bhishma's heart sank at the revelation. "Mata, what should we do? Jarasandha warned us about Andhaka Van and hinted at a threat to Karna. Karna is currently at Rishi Bharadwaja's ashram, but I need to understand the full extent of this danger so that I can protect him."

Devi Ganga nodded, her expression resolute. "You did well to send Karna to Rishi Bharadwaja's ashram. For now, he is safe. BUT I MUST SEEK ANSWERS FROM MAHADEV. ONLY HE CAN REVEAL EVERYTHING."

She turned to Bhishma and instructed, "Wait here for me, I will be back."

Without wasting any more time, Devi Ganga closed her eyes, chanting divine mantras, and soon found herself in the presence of Mahadev.

"Pranam, Mahadev," Devi Ganga said, bowing respectfully.

Mahadev acknowledged her presence with a nod. "Devi Ganga, I know why you are here. You seek answers about Andhaka Van and the recent attack on Karna."

Devi Ganga's voice trembled with urgency. "Yes, Mahadev. What is happening? Who is behind these attacks, and why is Andhaka Van involved? Has Vritrasura been released?"

Mahadev's expression was grave. "Yes, Vritrasura has been released because the child with my essence has taken birth."

Devi Ganga's eyes widened in shock. "Vritrasura is released? But how? Where is this child? Who is it?"

Mahadev's voice was calm yet firm. "The child is Karna. He is not just a Suryaputra but also carries my divine essence within him."

Devi Ganga was taken aback. "Karna? But how is it possible? How can Karna be worthy of your divine essence?"

Mahadev replied to her gently but firmly. "Devi Ganga, Karna's worthiness is beyond mortal comprehension. He is worthy to carry my essence for a reason. His destiny is intertwined with the greater cosmic balance."

Devi Ganga nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation, and did not question further. "Mahadev, what must I do now?"

Mahadev's eyes bore into hers with intensity. "After Karna returns from Rishi Bharadwaja's ashram, you must ensure that he is hidden from everyone. If Vritrasura discovers the child with the divine Kawach and Kundals, he will know that Karna is more than just a Suryaputra. No one should speak of Karna's true nature once he returns."

Devi Ganga's voice was filled with resolve. "Should I inform Bhishma and the Hastinapur royals about the prophecy? About Vritrasura?"

Mahadev considered this for a moment before replying. "That is your decision. But remember, no one should know that Karna has my essence within him. He must only be known as a Suryaputra. If you decide to reveal the prophecy, do not disclose that instead of two children, it is one child. Vritrasura should not know that it is one child because he believes it is two children he should be looking for as the prophecy mentioned."

Devi Ganga bowed deeply. "I understand, Mahadev. I will ensure Karna's safety and secrecy."

Mahadev nodded in approval.

With that, Devi Ganga left the divine presence, her heart heavy with the burden of protecting Karna.

She returned to the riverbank, her mind racing with thoughts of the impending challenges. She told Bhishma, "Putra, I will tell you what to do when Karna returns from Rishi Bharadwaja's ashram."

Bhishma nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.

Then she left.

As she waited for Karna's return from Rishi Bharadwaja's ashram, Devi Ganga knew that her task was of utmost importance - that is to PROTECT THE CHILD WHO CARRIED THE ESSENCE OF MAHADEV AND TO ENSURE THAT HIS TRUE NATURE REMAINED HIDDEN UNTIL THE TIME WAS RIGHT.

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After Vidur left the ashram, Karna sought out Ashwathama, who has just completing his tasks.

Ashwathama noticed Karna approaching and smiled warmly. "Mitra, you're back. Did you talk to Mahamantri Vidur?"

Karna nodded. "I did," he said, but after a moment of contemplation, added, "But I have this feeling it's not going to work."

Ashwathama looked confused but soon understood what karna meant so he says. "You mean Maharaj Pandu will still go to the forest?"

Karna nodded in agreement.

Ashwathama, ever optimistic, smiled reassuringly. "Then we will bring him back. There's still time, right?" he said, referring to the vision in which Karna saw his Chote Pitashree's death when there were five children, who are not born yet.

Karna smiled and nodded, comforted by his friend's unwavering support.

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One day, as Karna and Ashwathama were walking through the forest collecting herbs and medicinal plants, Karna's keen eyes spotted a bird, wounded and struggling on the ground. His heart immediately recognized the bird - it was the same one he had saved before.

Karna rushed to the bird, his voice gentle and caring. "Are you hurt, little friend?" he asked softly.

The bird chirped weakly, its eyes reflecting recognition and relief.

Ashwathama watched in bewilderment as Karna seemed to converse with the bird. "Mitra, did you hit your head or something?" he asked, walking over and inspecting Karna for any signs of injury.

Karna glanced at Ashwathama and shook his head. "It's not me who is hurt. See, the bird is injured," he said, pointing to the little creature.

Ashwathama raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "Are you sure? I just saw you talking to a bird, so I thought you might have gone crazy."

Karna rolled his eyes. "Yes, I am talking to the bird, and no, I am not crazy."

Ashwathama looked at Karna and the bird, trying to make sense of the situation. "You mean to say you understand what the bird is saying?"

Karna nodded. "Yes, I can understand them. Not just this bird, but any animal."

Ashwathama, still doubtful, decided to test Karna. "Alright, ask the bird what it's doing here."

Karna turned to the bird and asked, "What brings you here, my friend?"

The bird chirped in response, and Karna listened intently. "Oh, you came to see me? But how did you get hurt?"

The bird chirped again, and Karna nodded. "Next time, be more careful, okay? Don't worry, Gurudev will treat you."

Ashwathama was now sure his friend had lost his mind. He placed a hand on Karna's shoulder.

"Mitra Karna, I don't know how this happened, but don't worry. You will be back to normal," he said, trying to be comforting.

Karna, confused, asked, "Huh? What happened to me?"

Ashwathama HUGGED him. "Don't worry, Mitra. I am here for you. You are not crazy."

Karna immediately pushed Ashwathama away. "What are you talking about, Mitra? Who is crazy?"

Ashwathama replied, "You are. You were talking to a bird."

Karna sighed. "Yes, I was talking to the bird. And I am not crazy. I can understand them, and they understand me. Look," he turned to the bird and said, "Act dead."

Because Karna asked, The injured bird lay still, pretending to be dead. Ashwathama rubbed his eyes, trying to believe what he saw.

Karna asked, "Now do you believe me?"

Ashwathama nodded, speechless.

Karna gently picked up the bird and turned to Ashwathama. "Come, let's take this little one to Gurudev. He will know how to heal it."

Ashwathama followed Karna, still in shock, as they made their way back to ashram.

At the ashram, RISHI KASHYAPA AND RISHI DURVASA were together when Karna and Ashwathama arrived with the injured bird. Karna approached them respectfully, holding the bird carefully.

"Gurudev," Karna called softly.

It was Rishi Kashyapa who looked at Karna with a serene smile. "What is it, my child?"

Karna showed him the bird. "This bird is injured. Can you heal it, Gurudev?"

Rishi Kashyapa looked at the injured bird and nodded. "Yes, I can," he said, taking the bird gently in his hands.

Before healing the bird, Rishi Kashyapa gestured for Karna and Ashwathama to sit beside him.

Karna sat beside him, and Rishi Kashyapa asked, "Putra Karna, you know I am your grandfather, right? Then why do you never call me Pitamaha? Even Ashwathama calls Rishi Bharadwaja as Pitamah."

Karna looked at Rishi Kashyapa and said, "I thought it is not appropriate to call you Pitamah when you are my Gurudev and I am your student."

Rishi Kashyapa nodded and said, "Still, can you call me Pitamah? I have been waiting for you to call me that for so long."

Karna smiled and called him "Pitamah."

Rishi Kashyapa was happy and said, "Putra, ask me for something. I want to give you anything you wish."

Karna replied, "Pitamah, I don't want anything, but can you heal this bird now? It looks like it is in a lot of pain."

Rishi Kashyapa thought for a moment and said, "Putra, even if you don't want anything, I want to give you something. I am sure this will be useful for you."

He continued, "Seeing you care for even a little creature has impressed me, so I GIVE YOU A BOON - THAT WITH JUST A TOUCH OF YOUR HAND, YOU CAN HEAL ANY WOUND."

Karna's eyes widened in surprise and gratitude. "Thank you, Pitamah."

Rishi Kashyapa handed the bird to Karna gently and said, "Try now, place your hand on the wound."

Karna placed his hand on the bird's wound. A soft glow surrounded the bird, and miraculously, within moments, its wounds were healed. The bird fluttered its wings and chirped happily.

Karna's face lit up with a smile. "Pitamah, it worked! The bird is healed. See!!"

Rishi Kashyapa smiled back and said, "Compassion is a great strength, Putra Karna. Never lose it."

Karna remembered something and turned to Rishi Kashyapa, asking curiously, "Pitamaha, can I heal a blind person as well?"

Rishi Kashyapa was confused and asked, "Why do you ask?"

Karna nodded and said, "I want to cure Pitashree Dhritarashtra's blindness. He was born blind."

Rishi Kashyapa thought deeply and said, "Putra, you cannot cure your father's blindness as it is by birth. But..." He paused and continued, "if you tell me why you want to heal your father and if I feel the reason is genuine, then I will modify the boon and also give you a solution."

Karna explained with a sad smile, "Pitamah, my mother, Gandhari, has blindfolded herself out of love and devotion for my father. She said she doesn't want to see the world my father cannot see."

Karna paused for a moment, then looked at Rishi Kashyapa and said, "Pitamaha, I WANT TO SEE MY MOTHER'S EYES, and she will only remove the blindfold when the reason she blindfolded herself does not exist. That's why I want to cure my father's blindness."

Rishi Kashyapa understood the depth of Karna's love and the purity of his intentions. He decided to give a solution.

"Putra, you know bringing someone back to life cannot be done without divine intervention. However, there exists the Sanjeevani mantra, a powerful mantra known to heal any wound and even revive the dead. Similarly, your father's blindness is something that cannot be healed normally and requires divine intervention. -- Therefore, I grant you a boon: you shall possess the power to heal wounds with just a touch of your hand. And by invoking the Sanjeevani mantra while placing your hands on what you wish to heal, you will be able to heal anything - illnesses, wounds, scars, injuries, whether inflicted by nature or anyone, or even those present from birth."

Karna was overjoyed and excitedly asked, "Really, Pitamah? I can cure my father's blindness if I know this Sanjeevani mantra? How can I learn this? Who will teach me?" His eyes sparkled with determination.

Rishi Kashyapa said, "Yes, you can cure your father's blindness. But this mantra is known to SHUKRACHARYA, THE GURU OF THE ASURAS."

He continued, "Shukracharya is renowned for his mastery of this Sanjeevani mantra. And he guards this knowledge closely, especially from a Devaputra like yourself. However, persuading him to teach you will be no easy task."

Karna whispered Shukracharya's name with unwavering resolve. "Pitamah, I will convince him to teach me," he declared earnestly.

Rishi Kashyapa nodded in agreement, acknowledging Karna's determination and readiness to face the trails ahead.

Suddenly, a voice was heard. "Putra Karna, your mother is Gandhari?" It was Rishi Durvasa's voice, who had been listening to the conversation between the grandfather and grandson.

Karna turned to Rishi Durvasa and said, "Ji, Gurudev," then proudly added, "I am Gandharinandan."

Hearing this, Rishi Durvasa frowned and nodded, not pressing further.

However, he thought to himself, "How is this possible? Karna is the mantra prasad of Suryadev, which means he should be Kunti's son, not Gandhari's."

Rishi Durvasa decided to look into the lives of Kunti and Gandhari and also Karna's birth. Being a Trikaladarsi (I added this not sure if this is true), someone who has the ability to see past, present, and future, he closed his eyes and began to look into Kunti's life first.

"He saw Kunti, out of curiosity, using the mantra given by him to test it, Suryadev giving his radiance to Kunti, and how Karna was born. He then saw how Kunti abandoned Karna in the river Ganga, and Devi Ganga taking Karna to a royal family where Dhritarashtra decided to adopt Karna. He saw Devi Ganga's test and then looked into Gandhari's life, seeing how Gandhari got a boon from Mahadev and also his curse and boon to Gandhari when he visited Gandhar, he saw Gandhari's decision to blindfold herself, and how after her marriage to Dhritarashtra, she accepted Karna as her own child. He saw Dhritarashtra and Gandhari adopting Karna as their own son and events after that, like Suryadev giving a boon to Gandhari. He decided to look further and saw Karna getting attacked by two people, his kavach, and also Kunti marrying Pandu, the curse of Pandu, and Kunti living in the forest in normal clothes. He also saw Gandhari pregnant."

By this, Rishi Durvasa understood what had happened.

Just when he was about to open his eyes, he heard a voice saying, "Rishi Durvasa." Rishi Durvasa immediately recognized it as the voice of Mahadev.

With his eyes still closed, he talked with his mind to Mahadev, greeting him.

Mahadev said, "Rishi Durvasa, you now know who Karna is, right?"

Rishi Durvasa, having connected the dots, replied, "Mahadev, Karna is not just a Suryaputra, right?"

Mahadev responded, "You are right. Now I need you to do something."

Rishi Durvasa asked, "What is it, Mahadev? What can I do that you yourself have come to ask me?"

Mahadev explained, "You are someone who can understand the past, present and future. And I want you to help Karna understand his visions. I am sure you will be able to guide him and make him understand his visions."

Rishi Durvasa was confused. "Visions? I do not understand," he said, as he had only looked at parts of Karna's life, not completely.

Mahadev reassured him, "You will understand soon what I mean." Then after a pause, Mahadev reminded Rishi Durvasa, "And you are the one who gave Gandhari the boon of 100 sons. You should go along with Karna back to Hastinapur." The voice then faded.

Rishi Durvasa opened his eyes and saw the concerned faces of Karna and Rishi Kashyapa.

Rishi Kashyapa asked, "Dhurvasa, is everything alright?"

Rishi Durvasa nodded. "Yes, everything is fine." He said looking at Karna with a smile.

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During their training under the Sapta Rishis, Karna and Ashwathama were taught various techniques. One of the most intriguing lessons came from Rishi Vishwamitra. Who introduced them to a powerful method of communication using enchanted arrows.

Rishi Vishwamitra gathered Karna and Ashwathama one serene afternoon. The air was filled with the subtle fragrance of flowers, and the rustling leaves provided a soothing background to their lesson.

"Today," Rishi Vishwamitra began,

"I will teach you something different, how to communicate across great distances, even when separated. This technique involves transforming a written message into an arrow that once released will seek out the intended recipient, it means the arrow will physically find and deliver the message to that specific person."

He handed each of them parchment and quills, urging them to write their messages.

"First, write your message on a piece of paper," he instructed gently.

Karna and Ashwathama diligently penned their thoughts, each intending to convey a playful complaint about the other.

Karna wrote: "Mitra Ashwa has been sneaking into the kitchen at night and stealing food. I saw him do it!!! Rishi Bharadwaja always wondered who the thief was. He do not know it was his dear grandson."

Ashwathama wrote: "Mitra Karna always sneaks out to practice archery in the moonlight. By mistake, he broke the pot which Rishi Kashyapa use to keep the herbs. Rishi Kashyapa always wondered who was responsible. He do not know it was his dear grandson."

Both boys looked at each other and smiled innocently, as if they had done nothing wrong.

"Karna," Vishwamitra said with a twinkle in his eye, "you will send your message to Rishi Bharadwaja." Turning to Ashwathama, he added, "And Ashwathama, send yours to Rishi Kashyapa."

"Now, roll the paper tightly and hold it in your hand," Rishi Vishwamitra continued. "Chant this mantra with utmost focus:

'Sarvaksharaṃ śaravāya bhavatu'

(Let this message become an arrow)."

Note:-

"Sarvaksharaṃ śaravāya bhavatu" is a phrase created to fit the context of transforming a message into an arrow for the story. It is not a traditional mantra found in ancient texts but is crafted to sound authentic.

Sarvaksharaṃ (सर्वाक्षरं): "Sarva" means "all" and "akshara" means "letter" or "character". Together, "Sarvaksharaṃ" means "all the letters" or "the entire message".

śaravāya (शरवाय): "śara" means "arrow", and the suffix "vāya" indicates "for the purpose of" or "to become".

bhavatu (भवतु): This is a verb in the imperative form, meaning "let it be" or "may it become".

Putting it together, "Sarvaksharaṃ śaravāya bhavatu" translates to "Let the entire message become an arrow" or "May all the letters become an arrow".

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He demonstrated the chant, his voice resonating with ancient power.

As Karna and Ashwathama repeated the mantra, a serene energy enveloped the rolled parchment in their hands.

"Very good," Vishwamitra praised. "But remember, it takes practice. Focus and clarity of mind are essential."

As they practiced, Vishwamitra moved around them, correcting their postures and the way they chanted. "Ashwathama, focus more on your visualization," he said gently. "Karna, let your energy flow through your fingers into the object."

After several attempts, both were able to consistently transform the paper into arrows. They looked at their guru with newfound respect and excitement.

Slowly, the paper transformed, morphing into a slender arrow with intricate runes glowing softly along its length.

As Karna and Ashwathama looked on in wonder, they noticed that each arrow bore a distinct symbol-a radiant sun for Karna, symbolizing strength and brilliance, and a shimmering gem for Ashwathama, representing clarity and resilience.

These symbols not only added a touch of personal identity but also served as clear markers to indicate whose arrow it was and who the message originated from.

Rishi Vishwamitra smiled knowingly at their amazed expressions.

"Now, Release the arrow from your bow, think about the person you wish to send the message to. It will find its way to the one you intended to send." He watched as Karna and Ashwathama carefully notched their arrows and let them fly.

The enchanted arrows soared gracefully into the distance, disappearing into the horizon.

Rishi Vishwamitra then explained, "When the arrow reaches its target and is touched by the person you wanted to send, only then will the arrow change back to the parchment with message. Otherwise, it will remain as a normal arrow. Once the message is read and no longer needed, simply crumble the paper, and it will turn to ash," Rishi Vishwamitra added. "This ensures the message cannot be intercepted or read by anyone else."

Karna and Ashwathama nodded.

Rishi Vishwamitra's next words caught them off guard. "You both are fast at learning this. Now, let's wait for Rishi Bharadwaja and Rishi Kashyapa," he said casually, though his eyes twinkled with mischief.

Karna and Ashwathama exchanged alarmed glances. "Why, Gurudev?" they asked in unison.

With a knowing smile, Rishi Vishwamitra teased, "They will bring what you sent them and read them out loud."

Rishi Vishwamitra knew what they wrote by seeing their expressions after writing and so he said this to tease them.

Both Karna and Ashwathama exclaimed, "NO!!" in unison, their faces turning pale at the thought.

They looked at each other and said, "WHY ARE YOU SAYING NO?"

There was no need for words; they immediately understood what the other did and started blaming each other.

"Mitra, how can you write something about me?" Ashwathama said to Karna.

Karna replied, "Huh, you are talking as if you did not write about me."

Then they started bickering when Rishi Kashyapa and Rishi Bharadwaja came there with the arrows, but it was clear they had mistakenly taken arrows intended for the other. As a result the arrows remained unchanged, still resembling ordinary arrows. So this means the messages had not yet been read.

Seeing this, both Karna and Ashwathama rushed to them and asked, "Pitamah, give it to me, don't read it."

But both the Rishis smirked and exchanged the arrows, to see what Karna and Ashwathama wrote about each other.

Seeing this, Karna and Ashwathama looked at each other and both said at the same time, "What do we do now?"

Then Karna said, "RUN."

They both tried to escape, but Rishi Vishwamitra came behind them, not letting them escape.

Then Ashwathama whispered to Karna, "Mitra, what happens now?"

Karna whispered back, "How will I know? And Why are you asking me?"

Ashwathama whispered back, "You can see the future, that's why. Who else should I ask then?"

Karna, hearing this, wanted to bang his head somewhere. He whispered back, "I can see us getting beaten by our grandfathers."

Ashwathama's eyes widened in shock. He shouted, "WHAT!!"

Just then, Rishi Bharadwaja and Rishi Kashyapa came there, each twisting their respective grandchild's ear.

And rest what happened to Karna and Ashwa I will leave it to your imagination...

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During their two years under the guidance of the Sapta Rishis at the ashram, Karna and Ashwathama underwent profound learning that shaped them into well-rounded individuals ready to take on future challenges.

Under the guidance of Rishi Bharadwaja and Rishi Vishwamitra, they honed their skills in combat and archery, and strict discipline, preparing them for leadership roles and challenges ahead.

Rishi Vashishta and Rishi Atri imparted moral values, guiding them through the knowledge of the Vedas and teaching meditation techniques. Rishi Vashishta also enlightened them on astrology, the duties of royal advisors, and educated them about kingdoms and making alliances.

Rishi Gautama and Rishi Durvasa focused on mental discipline. They instructed Karna and Ashwathama in meditation, helping them sharpen their focus and control their emotions. Rishi Gautama additionally emphasized the importance of dharma, ethical living, compassion, and the righteous path of a warrior and future king.

Rishi Kashyapa, renowned for his wisdom in astronomy and medicine, shared his insights into celestial bodies, the medicinal properties of herbs, and the secrets of creation and progeny. His teachings provided them with invaluable medicinal knowledge, healing herbs, and an understanding of the natural balance of life.

As the golden rays of the setting sun bathed the tranquil ashram grounds, the Sapta Rishis gathered Karna and Ashwathama under the shade of the sacred banyan tree. The air was filled with a serene calmness, tinged with the bittersweet realization that their time together had come to an end.

Rishi Bharadwaja, his voice resonant with wisdom and affection, addressed them first. "Karna, Ashwathama, you have immersed yourselves in our teachings with dedication and zeal. Today marks the completion of your training under us."

Karna and Ashwathama exchanged glances, their hearts filled with gratitude and determination. They knelt before the Sapta Rishis, hands joined in reverence. "Gurudev," Karna spoke earnestly, "we are forever indebted to you for shaping us into who we are today. Before we depart, may we seek your blessings and know what guru dakshina you desire from us?"

Rishi Vashishta continued, "As your guru dakshina, we ask you to embark on a journey back to Hastinapur on foot."

Rishi Atri smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting deep spiritual insight. "Your journey back will be a test of compassion and wisdom. Along the way, you will encounter people in need. Show them kindness and share the wisdom you have gained."

Rishi Gautama's voice echoed with solemnity, "Uphold truth and righteousness in all your actions. Let your integrity guide you, even in the face of adversity."

Rishi Kashyapa spoke gently, "As you travel, care for nature and all living beings. Protect and respect the environment around you."

Rishi Vishwamitra, the sage who had once been a king, imparted his final words, "Use your skills to bring peace and resolve conflicts wherever you go. Act as a mediator when necessary."

Rishi Durvasa concluded, "This journey is not just about reaching Hastinapur. It is about the experiences and growth you will achieve along the way. The true lessons of your training will manifest through your actions during this journey."

Karna and Ashwathama nodded.

As a token of their appreciation, the Sapta Rishis together bestowed upon them a powerful boon.

"For your unwavering commitment and growth," Rishi Kashyapa intoned,

"We bestow upon you a powerful boon, but it comes with a condition - As long as you walk the path of righteousness and uphold dharma, you will have the ability to increase your strength manifold at will ensuring invincibility in battle."

Karna and Ashwathama bowed deeply, understanding the gravity of the condition attached to the boon. They solemnly accepted the gift.

With unwavering resolve, Karna and Ashwathama replied in unison, "We solemnly promise to uphold Dharma and protect the righteous, wherever our journey may lead."

Rishi Durvasa, known for his stern demeanor, accompanied them on their journey back to Hastinapur.

With the blessings of all the sapta Rishi's, Karna and Ashwathama set forth on their journey along with Rishi Dhurvasa, their hearts filled with gratitude, determination, and the teachings of the Sapta Rishis guiding their path.

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To be continued...

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How is the chapter? I tried my best to write something fun i just hope you like it... Leave a comment of you like the chapter...

I have not yet decided if I want Pandu and Madri to die in forest or not... So i just left it open... Pandu may return or not it will depend on what u readers want and also it depends on how the plot progresses...

What do you think of the boons? And the message arrow which I introduced?... I thought a lot about them before writing so please give your feedback...🙏

The boons and the message arrow will be used in upcoming chapters.... Are you excited to see how?

Next chapter - A new character will be introduced... And also another vision related to that character... Any guesses who it will be? Or what the vision would be?

Don't forget to vote if u haven't for the chapters written so far!!!