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"Parvaton ke beech jab dhwani hoti hai, Acharya, tab pratidhwani awasya uthti hai. Parvat kisi ki aagya ka pratiksha nahi karta."

(When one makes a sound between mountains, Acharya, the sound is bound to echo. A mountain does not wait for anyone's permission.)

Karna's words rang through the arena, leaving everyone stunned.

The crowd fell silent, every head swiveling between Dronacharya and the fearless archer standing high on the tower.

Then, like a ripple in still water, whispers began to spread. The tension in the air was almost tangible as people leaned toward each other, exchanging hurried speculations about the identity of the challenger.

The royal family watched, their expressions a mix of curiosity and bewilderment. Bhishma and Dronacharya's faces revealing a blend of confusion and growing concern.

Amid this silence, Ashwa immediately recognized Karna. A smile spread across his face as he instinctively stepped forward, ready to call out to his best friend. But before he could, Chirayu landed gently on his shoulder, gripping him firmly.

Ashwa stopped, looking at Chirayu, then back at Karna. Understanding the silent message, he held back his words, smiled knowingly, and stepped back. "Mitra Karna... I understand... You don't want anyone to know who you truly are yet, do you?"

Suyodhana, standing at the center of arena, stared at Karna with wide eyes, full of admiration. He recognized the stranger immediately as the one who had helped him before.

Above, on the Tower

Karna stood on the tower, a faint smirk on his lips as he surveyed the stunned crowd below. His face, though covered, but his piercing gaze and unwavering tone were enough to send a shiver through the arena.

Karna looked at Ashwa, who was smiling knowingly at him. He sighed, muttering to himself, "Mitra Ashwa... I thought if there was anything... you would be the first to tell me everything. But I had to find out from Ekalavya what happened that day when I came to you..."

Karna then looked at Dronacharya, whose irritation was clear. He thought, "Acharya Drona... How dare you hit my best friend... And now... how can you make such a claim and declare a mere student without any experience as the greatest archer. Have you forgotten that Mahadev himself is the foremost archer, followed by Gurudev and Pitamah Bhishma? To overlook their greatness is an insult to them. Today... I will make sure you learn a lesson..."

Karna's grip tightened on his bow, "Is this why Gurudev wanted me to attend the Kala Pradarshan?" He pondered his next move, "I didn't want to reveal my true identity yet... What should I do?"

An idea struck him. "I am an archer. I can challenge Arjun as an archer. My skills alone should be enough to justify my challenge in any duel."

Dronacharya's sharp voice interrupted Karna's thoughts. "Who are you to interfere and disrupt my declaration in this arena?"

Karna laughed, his voice calm yet defiant. "Acharya, have you already forgotten my words? A sound between mountains does not seek permission, it is simply echoes. I am no different."

The crowd murmured in awe at the boldness of this unknown challenger.

Dronacharya's face darkened with anger. His fists clenched as he thought. "How dare this unknown challenger question me, and so boldly at that?"

Arjun, standing beside Dronacharya, had immediately recognized the stranger as the one who had helped him before. The shock in his eyes was brief, and he quickly masked it with a frown.

Arjun watched his Gurudev clench his fists. He understood that Dronacharya's fury was shimmering beneath the surface. Dronacharya's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed on Karna, and Arjun knew without a doubt that his Gurudev was preparing for a confrontation.

With that, Arjun's thoughts hardened. "This unknown stranger may have helped me, yes... but I will not allow anyone to disrespect my Gurudev!"

Dronacharya looked at Karna and barked. "Enough riddles! Get down here!"

Karna chuckled to himself, thinking, "Time to make my grand entrance."

He nocked an arrow and released it into the sky. The crowd gasped as the arrow exploded mid-air into a cascade of flower petals, which floated down gracefully, landing at the feet of the royal family.

Then, with a swift leap, Karna descended from the tower, aiming to land in a dramatic pose. But just as his feet touched the ground, two figures descended at the same moment, standing directly in front of him.

Karna's eyes widened in surprise, he immediately recognized them and muttered under his breath, "Wahhh!! Really? I wanted to make a grand entrance, and these two had to steal the moment by jumping right in front of me."

The two figures turned to him with mischievous smirks, their expressions making it clear this was no coincidence. They seemed to have planned this together, to spoil Karna's grand entrance.

Karna shook his head with a wry smile. "I should have just appeared out of thin air."

As if responding to his thoughts, and with no sign of warning, two more figures materialized behind him - Bhagawan Parashurama and Rishi Bharadwaja.

The crowd gasped in astonishment recognizing them instantly.

Parashurama's knowing smirk met Karna's surprised gaze.

Karna blinked in disbelief as he looked at the two figures and back at Bhagawan Parashurama and Rishi Bharadwaja, who had appeared seemingly from nowhere. He had expected to be the center of attention for a grand entrance, but these four had made their presence known, drawing all eyes to them.

Karna looked directly into Parashurama's eyes, a silent conversation passing between them.

Karna, raised an eyebrow, "Gurudev, if you were coming anyway, why send me ahead? For this cool entrance?"

Parashurama, smirked, "I never said I wouldn't come. You were the one impatient to meet everyone and left before I could tell you."

Bhishma and Dronacharya immediately stepped forward and greeted Bhagawan Parashurama and Rishi Bharadwaja with deep respect.

Dronacharya still surprised to see them, spoke respectfully. "Gurudev, Pitashree... Why are you here?"

Parashurama's calm yet penetrating gaze fell on Dronacharya. "What do you mean, why? Can we not come to witness the Kala Pradarshan? We heard your students were performing."

Bhishma quickly covered for Dronacharya, who was surprised by Parashurama's words. "You are most welcome, Gurudev, Maharishi. But you are a bit late... the Rajkumar's have already demonstrated their skills."

Parashurama's eyes sparkled with challenge. "I don't think so," he said, looking at the three figures standing in the center. "Let the Kala Pradarshan continue."

Meanwhile, with Karna...

The two figures were none other than Shon and Ekalavya.

Before anyone could speak, Karna stepped forward, hugging both of them tightly. He whispered urgently, "Don't say my name. I don't want anyone to know yet-"

His words trailed off mid-sentence as he suddenly froze. His breathing grew shallow, and his gaze turned distant. He felt a familiar pull, and he was dragged into another time and place in a trance-like state

Shon and Ekalavya, still hugging Karna, exchanged confused glances, unsure of what was happening.

"Bhrata?" Shon whispered hesitantly, gently shaking Karna.

But Karna didn't respond or move. His grip on Shon's shoulder tightened, and his breathing quickened.

Ashwa watched Karna with concern, immediately understanding that Karna was experiencing another vision. He took a step forward, but again Chirayu's grip on his tightened, so held himself back.

Shon struggled slightly and whispered again, "Bhrata, let go!"

Finally, Karna snapped back to reality, blinking as his focus returned.

Karna looked directly at Shon, and held Shon's shoulders. In a low, serious tone, he asked, "You didn't help any little girl...did you? Tell me, Shon. You didn't, did you?"

Shon froze, his eyes widened with shock. He stammered, "How... How do you... know?"

Before Karna could answer, Dronacharya's irritated voice thundered again. He looked at the three, but his gaze was fixed solely on Karna as he asked, "Why did you shoot that arrow? Do you think this is a place for your... theatrics?"

"Why?" Karna repeated, his voice calm. He pointed toward the flowers scattered on the ground. "Acharya, do you not see the reason? I only wished to pay my respects."

Dronacharya's face darkened further, his voice rising in anger. "Not that one! The arrow that freed Rajkumar Suyodhana! Don't feign innocence!"

Karna tilted his head slightly, his voice laced with a hint of mockery. "Ah, I see. You are talking about the arrow that freed your student..." He gestured toward Arjun. "...while you were busy praising him..." Then he pointed toward Suyodhana. "And you overlooked another who was struggling to break free."

"BUT I... DID NOT SHOOT THAT ARROW."

Dronacharya's eyes narrowed, his suspicion growing. "Then who was it?" He demanded, looking toward Shon and Ekalavya standing beside Karna. "Was it one of you?"

Karna chuckled, his tone almost playful but unmistakably challenging. "Acharya, if you cannot identify the shooter, one must wonder how you claim to be a teacher."

The crowd gasped audibly, astonished by Karna's audacity. His words, sharp as arrows, pierced Dronacharya's pride, leaving the revered teacher momentarily speechless.

Dronacharya's nostrils flared, and his eyes burned with a mixture of fury and disbelief.

Placing a hand on Shon's shoulder, Karna calmly declared, "He shot the arrow..."

Before Dronacharya could respond, Suyo stepped forward, and addressed Shon. "When even my own Guru showed no concern for me, you - without hesitation - freed me. Your actions have earned my deepest respect. As a token of my gratitude, I wish to gift you something precious."

Suyodhana, in his impulsive way, decides to offer Shon a kingdom, as a reward for saving him - a symbolic gesture of his appreciation. "I wish to offer you Anga, my gift to you for your unmatched bravery -"

Bhishma, who had been silently observing, moved forward and was about to stop Suyo from making the offer, but before he could speak, Karna interrupted Suyo. "And who gave you the authority to grant a kingdom? Are you the king or the Yuvraj here? You cannot offer such a gift on your own, not without consulting with the one who actually holds power. Your words, though well-intended, are out of place."

Suyo was momentarily taken aback, and was upset at Karna. He tried to defend his actions. "I do not need permission to show gratitude to someone who helped me in my need. I am the one who was saved, and as the prince, I choose to reward those who stand by me."

Karna looked at Suyo for a moment. He understood what Suyo was trying to do. His gaze softened, but still, he could not let Suyo make such decisions without proper justification. "The kingdom is not just yours to give away. The power to bestow land, title, or kingdom lies with the king, not with anyone else, no matter if you are a prince. You do not have the authority."

From the sidelines, Shakuni, who had been observing silently, stepped forward with a sly smile. "Suyodhana may not be the king, but his father is. And I am certain Maharaj Dhritharastra would support his son in rewarding this young man -"

Before Shakuni could finish, Karna interrupted, his voice cutting through the air like thunder. "Is that so, Gandhar Raj? Your argument holds weight if the intent is simply to reward gratitude. However, a kingdom is not a bauble to be gifted in the heat of the moment. It is a responsibility, a trust bestowed upon its ruler for the welfare of its people. Even a king cannot give away his land without due consideration of his dharma and the needs of his subjects."

Karna's gaze swept back on Suyodhana. "If you wish to honor someone, there are countless other ways to do so... do you understand what I am trying to say?"

Suyodhana just nodded.

Shakuni's smile faltered slightly, his affection for Suyodhana and the desire to support him was genuine, but the stranger (Karna's) words left no room for argument.

Bhishma stepped forward, impressed by Karna's words. "Who are you, Putra? May I know the reason why you here?"

Karna turned towards Bhishma and replied with respect, "Pitam-"

COUGH. COUGH. CLEARS THROAT.

"Ganga Putra, my identity is of no concern here..."

Karna turned his attention back to Dronacharya, and continued, "Acharya, I have one question for you... You proclaimed your student, Rajkumar Arjun, as the greatest archer in the world. How can you make such a claim? Have you forgotten that Mahadev himself is the greatest archer? Or did you forget about your own Guru, Bhagawan Parashurama, and your Guru-Bharta, Ganga Putra Bhishma, who can surpass any mortal's skill?"

Dronacharya's face hardened, but he could not immediately respond.

"By declaring your student, as the greatest," Karna continued, his voice echoing with authority, "you are not only disrespecting your Gurus but their Gurus as well." He pointed toward Arjun and added, "He may be skilled, but he has merely completed his studies. How does that make him the greatest?"

Parashurama chuckled, knowing Karna's nature well. He was not surprised by his boldness.

Bhishma looked at his Gurudev with confusion, but then his gaze fixed on Karna, as he though he sensed something familiar about him but could not place it.

The murmurs among the crowd grew louder as Dronacharya's silence stretched on.

Dronacharya was visibly shocked by the audacity of the young man before him. Karna boldly pointed out his errors in front of the entire Hastinapur, including his own Gurus and disciples.

Dhritarashtra leaned forward, clearly impressed by Karna. "Pandu, Who is he?"

Pandu replied, "I don't know, Jyesth... his face is covered... But the one who shot the arrow to free Suyodhana... is Shon. I met him at Rishi Bharadwaja's ashram."

Vidur and Kripacharya remained silent, watching the exchange keenly.

Ashwa was smirking. He was enjoying the most. If he was given some popcorn, he would just sit back and enjoy the show.

The eldest and the two youngest Pandavas exchanged uncertain glances.

Arjun's jaw clenched, irritation flickering in his eyes. His pride was pricked, and the thought that someone dared question his Gurudev's words and his status as the greatest archer unsettled him.

Bhima's fists clenched, anger building as he observed the stranger's audacity to speak to his Gurudev in such a way.

Radha, sitting beside Gandhari, glanced at the scene, a knowing look in her eyes. She turned to Gandhari. "Gandhari, the one who freed Suyodhana is my son, Shon."

"Shon... it was him?" Gandhari turned to Radha, holding her hand. "Jiji... the one who spoke just now... Who is he? Why do I feel like Aditya is near?"

Radha, looking at Karna, held Gandhari's hand tightly, "Gandhari... I feel like... he is our Vasusen..."

Kunti, hearing this, immediately turned to Radha and Gandhari. "What? But his face is covered... How can you say he is... Aditya?"

Radha smiled knowingly. "It's just a mother's instincts... I don't need to see my Vasusen's face to recognize him."

Standing up, Gandhari asked eagerly, "Jiji? If he is our Aditya, then let's go to him now."

Radha stopped her gently, "No, Gandhari. If Vasu has hidden his face... Then maybe he didn't want to reveal himself yet. Let's wait and see."

Gandhari nodded, while Kunti looked at Karna and back at the two women, her heart clenched with a pang of jealousy. "How was it that Radha and Gandhari Jiji could sense Karna's presence and so easily recognize Karna... while, I... his biological mother... could not?"

Aaradhya and Bhanumati recognized Karna as well.

Aaradhya watched Karna with admiration, a smile tugging at her lips.

While Bhanumati was much more excited. If not for Krishna and Balarama holding her back, to keep her quiet, she would have shouted out in joy, encouraging Karna.

From the other side, Vritrasura was observing Karna closely, a sense of unease creeping over him as he thought, "His aura... I have never felt anything like this before... There's something about him that I can't quite understand, but I know for sure that he is not ordinary..."

MAHARAJ DRUPAD, seated among the Kings, let out a loud laugh, clearly enjoying the spectacle before him. His laughter cut through the tension, as he spoke. "Ah, Drona! How refreshing to see someone challenge your pride!"

Drupad's laughter and words hit Dronacharya like a slap, causing his anger to flare even brighter.

The crowd buzzed with murmurs, while Dronacharya glared at Karna, the tension between them now undeniable.

Dronacharya's eyes narrowed as he looked at the trio and commanded, "State your names and your purpose here."

Shon stepped forward, bowing respectfully. "Pranipat Acharya Drona. I am Shon, son of Adhirath and Radha. My father Adhirath is the charioteer of Mahamahim Bhishma."

Ekalavya followed, bowing as well. "Pranipat Acharya Drona. I am Ekalavya, son of Hiranyadhanus, the king of the Nishadas and an ally of Hastinapur."

As Ekalavya spoke, Arjun's eyes widened slightly. He immediately noticed Ekalavya's right hand - It was missing its thumb. His gaze lingered on Ekalavya's hand, as he thought, "Did he still learn archery? Even without his thumb?"

Dronacharya's eyes widened in recognition. He remembered both of them-whom he had once rejected. The memory stung, and his voice grew sharper. "Why are you here? This Kala Pradarshan is for the princes of Hastinapur. How dare you interfere!"

Shon and Eklavya exchanged a glance, their resolve unwavering before speaking in unison, "We are here to challenge someone."

Dronacharya's face hardened, assuming they meant Arjun. His voice, laced with disdain, barked, "What is this? How can a Suta - a son of a charioteer and a Nishada challenge Rajkumar Arjun? The Kala Pradarshan is for the royal princes of Hastinapur, not for commoners. You have no place here."

His tone was harsh, dismissing then outright. "Leave now! You are not worthy to challenge anyone here. Know your place."

Karna raised an eyebrow in amusement, and spoke up. "How easily you dismissed them, Acharya, as though their worth is already determined by their birth. Do you truly believe that a warrior's potential is tied only to his caste and not his deeds? Such narrow thinking... Looks like you need to learn a new lesson about true merit."

Dronacharya's eyes snapped to Karna, anger boiling beneath his composed facade.

Unaffected by the tension in the air, Karna gestured to his Gurudev standing nearby, and continued. "Bhagawan Parashuram, who was born a Brahmin but became a warrior capable of wielding celestial weapons, transcended his varna through his skills. Similarly, Vishwamitra, once a king, attained the status of a Brahmarishi through his penance and knowledge. Both of them prove that a warrior's true worth is not limited by their birth or varna, but by their deeds, by their resolve."

Looking directly at Dronacharya, Karna spoke again. "And you... Acharya Drona, even you... who was born a Brahmin, became a teacher and warrior. You transcended your varna and proved that one's potential is determined by their actions, not their caste. BUT... I FIND MYSELF UNABLE TO COUNT YOU AS AN EXAMPLE IN THIS CASE, because how can I compare you to the great Guru's like Bhagawan Parashurama or Rishi Vishwamitra, when you are someone who demanded a thumb as the price of knowledge from someone, who you never taught, who only sought to learn... You actions betray the very lessons of equality and fairness that you should impart as a teacher..."

Karna stepped forward, positioning himself in front of Shon and Ekalavya. His posture was unwavering, shoulders back, chest out, eyes locked onto Dronacharya with unyielding confidence. His stance was not just defensive, but defiant, declaring that he was ready to face whatever came next.

"And now... coming back to the current situation..." Karna said, his voice steady but challenging, "I don't understand... Why are you asking them to leave if they are here to challenge someone? They have not even mentioned a name. Yet you deem them unqualified without knowing their purpose."

Dronacharya's face reddened, torn between his own prejudices and the undeniable truth of Karna's argument.

Bhagawan Parashuram and Rishi Bharadwaja, standing a few steps away exchanged knowing glances.

Parashurama's lips quirked upward, while Rishi Bharadwaja suppressed a smile. They had waited for this moment - to teach Dronacharya a lesson for rejecting Shon and Ekalavya. For Dronacharya's pride to be challenged, for his arrogance to crumble under the weight of truth.

And Karna was their pride that will shatter Dronacharya's pride.

The tension in the arena reached its peak, each person present waited, breathless, to see how the great teacher would respond.

Dronacharya's fury simmered beneath the surface, his hands trembling as he tried to regain control of the situation. He composed himself and inquired sharply, addressing Shon and Eklavya, "Tell me, you said you are here to challenge someone. Who is it?"

Shon and Eklavya exchanged determined glances before declaring in unison, "Acharya Drona, we are here to challenge you for a duel."

Dronacharya's astonishment was palpable. "WHAT? CHALLENGE ME?"

His voice echoed incredulously through the arena, causing a stir of whispers among the spectators.

Ekalavya spoke first. "My Gurudev has asked for guru dakshina to defeat you in a duel, Acharya Drona."

Shon, standing beside Ekalavya, added. "For my Gurudev, the guru dakshina is the same to prove my worth against you, Acharya Drona."

Dronacharya, masking his surprise with a mockingly superior air, retorted, "Gurudev? Guru dakshina? Who dared to teach a Suta and a Nishada?"

Shon and Eklavya exchanged knowing glances.

Shon replied calmly, "Someone who does not discriminate like you did, Acharya."

Dronacharya's face darkened with anger. "Who is your guru? Tell me who dared to teach you."

Bhagwan Parashurama and Rishi Bharadwaja, who had been silently watching, stepped forward.

"WE DARED TO TEACH!"

The declaration echoed through the arena, leaving everyone stunned into silence.

Dronacharya's eyes widened in disbelief, no words came out from his mouth as he looked at his father and Gurudev.

Bhishma's brows knitting together in disbelief. The Pandavas and Kauravas exchanged wide-eyed glances, and the murmurs of the crowd swelled into a roar of astonishment.

EVERYONE EXCEPT KARNA.

Karna chuckled, breaking the heavy tension like a crack of lighting on a still night.

He looked at both his Gurudev's - Bhagawan Parashurama and Rishi Bharadwaja, as if to say. "Gurudev, don't you think you both are being a bit dramatic?"

Parashurama shot Karna a mock glare, rolling his eyes.

Rishi Bharadwaja coughed, suppressing a smile.

Dronacharya heard Karna's chuckle and his anger flared again. He addressed Karna directly, who was standing boldly before Shon and Eklavya. "YOU! YOU NEVER MENTIONED WHY YOU ARE HERE. DO YOU ALSO WISH TO CHALLENGE ME?"

Karna's gaze shifted to Arjun, standing behind Dronacharya. "No, I am not here to challenge you... I am here to challenge him." Karna pointed directly at Arjun.

Everyone was shocked. The Pandavas looked at each other, confused and angry, while Kauravas smirked, sensing an impending clash.

Dronacharya's expression twisted in disdain. "You dare challenge Rajkumar Arjun? What is your name?"

Karna replied calmly, "My name is VRISHA."

The murmurs in the crowd grew louder at the unfamiliar name.

But Dronacharya pressed further, "Vrisha, are you a prince or a king? Because only a prince or a king can challenge another prince or king."

Karna laughed, drawing everyone's attention. "Why twist your words, Acharya? Just say you want to know my caste or varna."

Dronacharya flinched but maintained his composure. "What do you mean? I don't understand."

Karna shook his head slightly, his voice steady but cutting. "Acharya, why does my background matter then? I am an archer challenging another archer... is that not enough?"

Dronacharya, irked by Karna's audacity, decided to be blunt. "Since you already know my intent, then tell me! Are you a Kshatriya? A prince? Or a king? If you are none of these, you have no right to challenge Arjun, who is both a Kshatriya and a Rajkumar."

"A Kshatriya?" Karna paused briefly, contemplating his response. "So... if I say I am born into a Suta family, does that mean -"

Before Karna could finish his sentence, Bhima stepped forward angrily, his voice booming across the arena like a thunderclap. "A Suta? How dare you challenge my younger brother! Who gave a Suta the right to wield weapons?"

The crowd erupted into chaos. Murmurs and whispers swirled around the arena like an unstoppable storm.

Karna turned to Bhima, his voice, though calm, was laced with menace. "DO NOT INTERRUPT ME AGAIN!"

Bhishma watched Karna closely. He could see the controlled anger in Karna's voice and the fire blazing in his eyes. He could also sense the storm brewing, the inevitable clash waiting to erupt. He wondered, "There was something familiar about his demeanor, his confidence, even his presence... WHO IS HE?"

Karna's eyes never wavered from Bhima's, his words deliberate and cutting. "Is this what your Guru taught you? To act out of base anger and arrogance, without any semblance of understanding or discipline?"

Turning to Dronacharya, Karna's voice grew sharper. "And you, Acharya... was this the lesson you imparted? That the son of a charioteer, or a Suta, has no right to challenge a prince?"

Dronacharya's jaw clenched, he remained silent. Karna's words were like a sharp blades, each one cutting deeper into Dronacharya's pride. He should have been pleased with Bhima's support, but instead, he felt a pang of unease. Bhima's crude outburst, though meant to defend him, felt excessive. "Was this how his teachings were being interpreted? And Vrisha... this young man's unwavering confidence, his sharp words... Who is he? Was he truly just a Suta? Or was there more to him than met the eye?"

The weight of Karna's words left the entire arena in stunned silence, eyes darting nervously between him and Dronacharya.

It was then that Bhima, unable to contain his anger, spoke again, his voice even more scornful.

"How dare you speak to my Gururdev like that? Don't think you can walk in here and challenge Arjun, thinking your so-called training under your lowly Guru can make you his equal! You are nothing more than dirt beneath our feet pretending to be an archer with that ordinary wooden bow. You don't even belong here!"

Karna's fists clenched tightly at his sides, the tendons in his hands visibly taut.

Bhima's words struck a nerve.

Karna took a step toward Bhima, the fire in his eyes burning even brighter. His voice, ice-cold and seething with barely concealed anger, reached Bhima's ears like a venomous hiss. "WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY? LOWLY? YOU DARE TO CALL MY GURURDEV 'LOWLY'?"

Ekalavya, sensing Karna's rising anger, immediately stepped forward and placed his hand on Karna's arm, stopping him. "Bhrata, calm down... He does not know-"

But Bhima, even more arrogant now, interrupted Ekalavya. "Calm down? I don't care what your lowly Guru taught you. You are nothing!"

The words were like a spark to dry tinder. Karna's already burning rage, erupted like an uncontrollable blaze. He pushed Ekalavya aside, taking another step toward Bhima.

Ekalavya tried to stop him again but froze when Karna raised his hand, palm out, silently commanding him to stay back.✋

Without another word, Karna advanced toward Bhima. His every step was deliberate. His walk exuding raw power and menace. His voice, low but sharp, cut through the air like a whip. "Bhima... your arrogance blinds you. Do you even understand the consequences of your words?"

Bhima, blinded by his rage, charged toward Karna, his fists clenched and ready to strike.

But Karna was faster. In the blink of an eye, his injured hand turned into a fist, delivering a devastating punch to Bhima's face.

The punch was so fast and powerful that the air seemed to crackle with the force.

Bhima barely had time to react. For a moment, his body felt weightless. Blood sprayed from his mouth as the force of the punch sent him flying backward, his body slamming to the ground - RIGHT AT SUYODHANA'S FEET.

Karna exhaled sharply, a low grunt escaping his lips, "AAAHHH!" as the impact sent a jolt of pain through his already injured hand. He shook his hand slightly, trying to ease the stinging pain in his palm. When he looked at his hand, the knuckles started to bleed, staining his skin. He placed slight pressure on his knuckles, trying to dull the ache but winced feeling the pain shot up his arm.

Bhima stared at Karna, clutching his jaw. His fingers trembled slightly as the metallic taste of blood filled his mouth. His eyes widened with disbelief, trying to comprehend the sheer power behind that strike. His chest heaved as he struggled to accept the reality that Karna/Vrisha-someone he had just dismissed as beneath him-had so easily overwhelmed him. FOR THE FIRST TIME, BHIMA DOUBTED HIS OWN STRENGTH...

Bhishma and Dronacharya watched the scene unfold in stunned silence. Karna's strength and precision were beyond anything they had expected. How could this young man possess such skill? For the first time in years, both Guru-Bharta's felt uncertain. Had they misjudged this young man?

Everyone else were too shocked to react. The men gasped, while the women covered their mouths in disbelief as they witnessed Karna strike Bhima.

Karna stood tall, his hand aching from the blow. He looked at Bhima, preparing to strike again. At the same moment, Bhishma and the Pandavas stepped forward to stop Karna.

Bhima, now fearing Karna, backed away slightly. Since he has fallen at Suyodhana's feet, Bhima unknowingly reached out and touched Suyodhana's feet as he crawled backward.

Seeing Bhima's fear, Karna calmed himself a little.

But before anyone could say or do anything, Parashurama's voice thundered across the arena halting everyone in their tracks.

"VRISHA!!" Parashurama called, drawing everyone's attention.

Karna glanced at his Gurudev, then back at Bhima. Despite the pain, he crouched down in front of Bhima, gripping his chin firmly and tilting his head up so their eyes met.

"You are lucky that 'MY GURUDEV' stopped me just now..." Karna said coldly, his voice filled with authority. "I hope this is enough to keep your mouth shut... for now. Because... I'm not done with you yet, but I give you my word... I will deal with you later."

With that, Karna released Bhima and rose to his feet, walking toward Parashurama.

The crowd held its breath, expecting a stern rebuke from Parashurama.

But Instead, Parashurama grabbed Karna's injured hand and began examining it, his sharp eyes narrowing.

"How did you get hurt?" Parashurama demanded, his voice gruff but laced with concern. "And you hit him with this hand? Can't you take care of yourself, nalayak?"

Karna, slightly embarrassed, pulled his hand back. "It's nothing, Gurudev. Just a small wound."

Parashurama's concern was evident to everyone. He suddenly reached out and grabbed Karna's ear over the cloth, twisting it lightly, feigning anger.

Karna winced and tried to free his ear. "Gurudev, leave me be! It's paining!"

Parashurama scoffed, still holding his ear. "Ah, so this hurts, does it? Your ear hurts when I twist it, but your hand-bleeding and bruised-didn't stop you from punching someone?"

Karna gave an innocent puppy-eyed 🥺 look. "Gurudev, my ears are delicate. Leave me, it's really paining!"

Parashuram raised an eyebrow. "Delicate? And what about your hand, which you swung like a mace? That wasn't delicate? You're unbelievable, Vrisha! You don't feel pain when you fight, but my mere touch makes you cry?"

Karna, ever the quick thinker, couldn't help but correct Parashurama. "But Gurudev, I am not crying now, and it's different when you twist my ear. It's... extra painful because it's you."

Parashurama stared at Karna, his stern facade cracked. He let go of Karna's ear, shaking his head in exasperation. "You truly are something else, Vrisha. I should be angry, but look at you..."

Karna grinned and rubbed his ear. "That's because I know your anger is sweeter than your praise."

Parashurama sighed, looking amused.

Parashurama turned to Dronacharya and Bhishma, who were standing shocked, hearing Karna say Gururdev to Parashurama.

Parashurama addressed Dronacharya, "Shon and Ekalavya will fight with you, Dronacharya." Then he placed a hand on Karna's shoulder and added, "Vrisha will fight with Arjun. Do you have any problem with that?"

Dronacharya just nodded, NO.

Then Parashurama turned to Bhishma and asked, "Do you have a problem?"

Bhishma also just nodded, NO.

They both were too shocked to say anything.

Then Rishi Bharadwaja addressed Karna directly, "Putra Vrisha, I wish to see Shon and Eklavya fight first against my son Dronacharya. After that, you can fight with Arjun."

Karna, still rubbing his ear, replied respectfully, "Yes, Gurudev, as you say." Then glancing pointedly at Parashurama, he added. "Gurudev, you are so kind, unlike someone here who uses his hands first."

Parashurama rolled his eyes and retorted, "Now come and sit with us, or should I use my hands to drag you there?"

Karna chuckled, "No need to use your hands, Gurudev. I am coming." He followed Bhagawan Parashurama and Rishi Bharadwaja.

The sight of them laughing together further surprised those witnessing this unexpected camaraderie between Rishi Bharadwaja, Bhagawan Parashurama, and the young challenger.

Dronacharya, watching the scene with Bhishma standing beside him, finally spoke, looking at Karna. His voice low. "Mahamahim Bhishma... Did he just say Gurudev? To our Gurudev and my father?"

Bhishma nodded, looking at Karna. "Yes, Guru Drona. Have you ever seen Gurudev and your father behave like this?"

Dronacharya shook his head. "No, Mahamahim. Never. Whoever this Vrisha is, he clearly holds a special place in their hearts."

Bhishma responded thoughtfully, "Finish the fights with both, the sun will set soon." His words carried a hidden meaning-drag out the fights until sunset, ensuring the young man Vrisha could not challenge Arjun.

Dronacharya understood Bhishma's unspoken message and nodded in agreement.

---------------------------------------------------------

Meanwhile at the same with others...

WITH VRITRASURA

Vritrasura's gaze was fixed on Karna. "Vrisha... Bhagawan Parashurama's shishya... yet I did not see him when I went to Mahendra Giri... Is this just a coincidence... or..." His thoughts were interrupted as the murmur of the crowd reached his ears.

"Rajkumar Bhima got what he deserved... How can he call our Rajkumar Suyodhana as Duryodhana?"

"Yes, Rajkumar Bhima is lucky that our Yuvraj is not here."

"You are right. If Yuvraj was here, Rajkumar Bhima wouldn't dare say such things..."

Vritrasura's lips curled into a sly smirk. He gestured to Dritarda, who stood silently by his side, to come closer. As Dritarda leaned in, Vritrasura whispered something in his ear. Without a word, Dritarda left and soon returned with a man, an ordinary commoner, visibly nervous and confused.

"Sit down," Vritrasura commanded, gesturing to the space on his left.

The man hesitated for a moment, his eyes darting nervously, but he obeyed, sitting on Vritrasura's left.

Once the man was settled, Vritrasura leaned slightly toward him, his voice calm yet piercing. "Who is this Yuvraj... everyone is talking about?"

Standing behind Vritrasura, Jarasandha paled, his face draining of color as he heard the question.

The man, clearly suspicious, avoided the question. Instead, he asked cautiously, "Where are you from? I have never seen you in Hastinapur."

Vritrasura smiled, his expression unreadable. "I'm just a traveler. I was passing by when I heard about this Kala Pradarshan and decided to watch it. Everyone's talking about it."

The man nodded but said nothing about the original question Vritrasura asked. His silence was telling.

Vritrasura smirked, understanding. He was not a fool and could see through the man's deflection.

Vritrasura asked, his tone probing. "Are you from Hastinapur?"

The man nodded again. "Yes, I have been in Hastinapur my whole life... for 30 years. That is why I could tell you're not from around here."

Vritrasura nodded in return, but his smirk deepened. In one swift motion, he pulled a dagger from his side with his left hand and aimed it at the man sitting beside him, stopping just inches from his eyes.

The man recoiled in fear, trembling as he shielded his face with his hands.

Vritrasura remained calm as he tapped into his power. Suddenly, chain-like tattoos appeared on the man's neck, wrists, and ankles. His eyes turned blank, devoid of any emotion or thought.

Vritrasura pointed at the tattoos on the man and explained to Saanvi, "Do you see these tattoos, Saanvi? They mean this person is in my control. When I mark someone, their will becomes mine."

He handed the dagger to the man. "Take this."

The man obeyed, gripping the dagger firmly.

"Attack me," Vritrasura ordered.

Without hesitation, the man lunged at Vritrasura.

"Stop," Vritrasura commanded, and the man froze, the dagger mere inches from Vritrasura's chest.

Vritrasura turned his gaze to Jarasandha.

"Jarasandha..."

Jarasandha immediately stepped forward, his body tense. "Ye-Yes?"

Vritrasura gestured toward the arena, where the Pandavas, Kauravas and the royals were seated. "Who is the Yuvraj of Hastinapur?"

Jarasandha had not anticipated the question and let out a nervous laugh. "They... they have not announced yet... We should wait till the end, I guess."

Vritrasura lowered his voice, addressing Jarasandha. "Think twice before you answer... Who is the Yuvraj of Hastinapur?"

Jarasandha swallowed hard, his voice shaking. "I... I... don't... know..."

Vritrasura spoke with a sinister calm. "Jarasandha, you have experienced my power before, but not completely. These tattoos never appeared on you, did they?"

Jarasandha's knees buckled slightly, and he stammered, "N-No... never..."

Vritrasura addressed the man once more. "Tell me, who is the Yuvraj of Hastinapur?"

The man answered in a flat, emotionless tone, "The eldest son of Maharaj Dhritarashtra and Maharani Gandhari."

"And his name?" Vritrasura pressed.

"Aditya," the man answered.

"Why does no one speak of him?"

"We are told not to speak of him because someone is trying to harm him."

"Is he the Suryaputra with the divine kavach and kundals?"

"Yes."

Vritrasura turned his attention back to Jarasandha.

"Jarasandha... Did you warn them about me?"

Jarasandha remained silent, his face betraying his fear.

Vritrasura asked again, his voice laced with quiet menace, "Jarasandha... Did you know that the Yuvraj of Hastinapur is the Suryaputra?"

Jarasandha's voice cracked. "I... Yes, I did... I warned them... And... I know... about Suryaputra... but..."

"Why?... Did you think I would not discover your plans against me?"

Jarasandha's eyes widened, and he fell to his knees, his voice breaking. "Vritrasura, forgive me... Please. That was before I knew of your power... You almost killed me when we first met... I... I... that's why... I... tried... t-to... go against... you. I was wrong... Please spare me..."

Vritrasura regarded him coldly. "You can go back now... I will deal with you after this Kala Pradarshan." He gestured for Dritarda to escort Jarasandha away.

Vritrasura shifted his gaze back to Karna.

Saanvi's heart raced, and she could feel a cold sweat forming on her brow. Her eyes darted to Vritrasura, searching for any signs that he might know her secret.

She hesitated before speaking. "You already knew? That Jarasandha..."

"Hmm," Vritrasura replied nonchalantly.

"From when?" Saanvi asked, her voice trembling, her heartbeat quickening.

"Since the day he came to me, claiming he knew the child was in Hastinapur but couldn't bring the child to me. His fear betrayed him."

Saanvi's breath hitched, and her palms turned clammy. "Then why? Why did you not do anything? Why wait till now?"

Vritrasura remained silent for a moment not answering her questions. He thought to himself, "Because... He told me about your sister... Aaradhya. I would have remained in Andhaka Van if he did not led me to Asura Lok... He, unknowingly to save himself, has set a chain of events into motion..."

After a moment, he answered Saanvi, "You know, Saanvi, I took Jarasandha to Asura Lok to show him what I am capable of... I was testing him. If he had admitted his plans against me then... If he had confessed his betrayal back then... I might have forgiven him. But he did not. And If he could hide something from me once, he will do so again in the future..."

Saanvi fell silent listening to Vritrasura.

Vritrasura leaned slightly toward Saanvi, his eyes locking with hers. "A LIAR ONCE IS A LIAR ALWAYS..."

Vritrasura shifted his focus back to Karna, but his next words sent a chill through her. "Now... I hope you understand why I brought you here, Saanvi."

Saanvi's heart raced as a chilling thought crossed her mind. "Does he know...?"

Gathering her courage, she asked cautiously, "What do you mean?"

Vritrasura laughed, a cryptic smile on his lips. "It's funny when anyone thinks they can outsmart me and trap me..."

Before Saanvi could question further, Vritrasura gestured to the center of the arena. "Let's watch the Kala Pradarshan... I have a feeling... I will see the Suryaputra..."

Saanvi clenched her fists, forcing herself to remain calm. She thought, "If he knows... why is he giving me a chance...? Is he testing me?... Is he playing with me... Aaru Jiji... I thought staying close to Vritrasura... I could find out his plans for you and stop him... But... now... I am scared..."

The way Vritrasura toys with Jarasandha, Saanvi or anyone makes him appear even more dangerous, as if he's always several steps ahead. His cryptic nature and ability to maintain control, even when he isn't directly acting... Would anyone ever truly understand his game before it's too late?

---------------------------------------------------------

WITH KRISHNA, BALARAMA, AARADHYA, AND BHANUMATI

Bhanumati could hardly contain her joy as she clapped her hands, her face lit up as she watched Karna strike Bhima. "Aaru!! Did you see that? Bhrata Rudra punched Bhima! He's amazing... isn't he?"

Aaradhya's gaze, however, remained fixed on Karna's hand. Her concern for Karna was evident in her voice as she murmured, "But look at his hand, Bhanu... He's already injured and now... He didn't even flinch but it looks like it's paining..."

Krishna's eyes momentarily shifted to where Vritrasura and Saanvi were sitting. His expression was calm, yet his eyes held the weight of knowing. Speaking as though to himself, he murmured, "Saanvi... what are you doing? Vritrasura is not someone easily fooled... it's a dangerous path you tread... If you play with fire... It consumes all who dare to touch it. And once burned, there's no returning to what was before... I can see you getting caught in the flames, and there's no turning back now..."

Balarama, noticing Krishna's unusual silence, frowned, his voice full of concern. "What is it, Kanha? Why are you so quiet?"

Krishna didn't immediately respond. After a long pause, he looked at Balarama, a faint smile curving his lips, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Dau... The one who walks the tightrope above the abyss often mistakes the rope for a bridge. But the ropes that once seemed secure will snap at the most unexpected moment, and the fall is inevitable. It is not always the storm we should fear. Sometimes, it is the calm before it."

Balarama looked at Krishna with a puzzled experience, sensing there was more beneath the surface. "You always speak in riddles, Kanha. Can't you ever just say what you mean?"

But Krishna said no more. His cryptic words hung in the air, leaving Balarama to wonder the true meaning behind Krishna's words.

---------------------------------------------------------

WITH THE PANDAVAS, KAURAVAS, ASHWA AND SHAKUNI...

The Pandavas and Kauravas stood together, watching as Shon and Ekalavya prepared to face Dronacharya in the arena. The air was tense, the silence punctuated only by the occasional murmur of anticipation from the crowd.

Nakul and Sahadev, noticing Bhima rubbing his jaw, exchanged a concerned glance. They moved closer, Sahadev gently touching Bhima's face.

"Bhrata Bhima, does it hurt?" Nakul asked, his voice laced with worry.

Bhima winced, pulling back slightly as Sahadev's fingers brushed a particularly tender spot. A low grunt escaped his lips, betraying the pain he was trying to hide.

"Is it paining?" Arjun asked, stepping closer.

Bhima didn't respond immediately. His gaze remained locked on Karna, his fists clenched tightly at his sides. The memory of that punch burned brightly in his mind. His chest heaved with anger, but his pride kept him from answering.

Ashwa, overheard their conversation and couldn't resist a comment. He crossed his arms, a smirk playing on his lips. "Of course, it would hurt. Everyone saw how Bhima fell down... right at Suyodhana's feet."

The jab landed hard, and Sushasana, standing beside Ashwa, couldn't resist adding fuel to the fire. "Not just fell, Bhrata Ashwa. But even touched our Jyesth's feet while he was at it."

The Kauravas, hearing Sushasana's words, chuckled quietly amongst themselves.

Before the situation could escalate further, Suyodhana himself walked over. "Enough," he said sharply, his tone brooking no argument. The smirks on the faces of the Kauravas faded instantly.

Suyo turned to Bhima, his expression unreadable. "Are you okay?"

Bhima blinked, taken aback by the question. After everything that had happened today, of all people, Suyo was the last person he had expected concern from. Bhima's anger wavered for a moment, replaced by confusion. He said nothing, simply staring at Suyodhana as if trying to decipher his intentions.

Suyodhana waited for a response, but when none came. Without another word, he turned away from Bhima and walked toward Ashwa.

Suyo saw Chirayu on Ashwa's shoulder and asked, "Mitra Ashwa, he is Chirayu? Right? What is he doing here?"

Ashwa smiled. "Chirayu came with my Mitra... Karna."

Suyo was confused.

But SHAKUNI, who was with the Kauravas all this time, immediately asked, "What? Karna? He is here? Where is he?"

If Suyo is confused by Ashwa's words, then now with his Mamashree's questions, he is more confused about how his Mamashree knows Ashwa's friend...

Ashwa does not reply directly. Instead, he says to Shakuni, "Gandhar Raj, if you see closely, you will find out..."

---------------------------------------------------------

(Note - if I wrote something wrong then I request you to correct me at the end after you finish reading the chapter...)

The Fight between Dronacharya and Shon, Ekalavya

Dronacharya stood tall, his gaze sweeping across the two young archers, Shon and Ekalavya. The tension in the air was thick as the crowd held their breath, waiting for his next move. After a moment of silence, Dronacharya's voice rang out, filled with condescension.

"You both claim to have the skill to challenge me," he began, his eyes narrowing as he surveyed them. "Very well, then. I shall not fight you one by one. Instead, I invite you both to come together and face me as a team. Let us see if your combined efforts can match the might of my experience."

Shon and Ekalavya exchanged a determined glance, silently communicating their strategy. Without a word, they took their positions, bows drawn, their arrows glowing faintly in the sunlight.

Dronacharya chuckled softly, not hiding his disdain. "This will be a lesson for you both. I will end this farce quickly."

The fight began.

Shon took the lead, nocking three arrows at once and releasing them in rapid succession. Dronacharya countered with ease, deflecting the arrows mid-flight. "Is this all you've got?" he taunted, his pride evident in his tone.

But Shon wasn't finished. He quickly launched an Agneyastra, an arrow wreathed in flames, aiming to catch Dronacharya off guard.

Dronacharya raised his bow, invoking the Varunastra to extinguish the flames before they could reach him.

Ekalavya took his turn then, swiftly nocking an arrow that split into multiple arrows mid-flight, all aimed at Dronacharya.

Before Dronacharya could summon an astra to disperse the barrage, Ekalavya fired the Vayavyastra. A powerful gust of wind carried the arrows at blinding speed, forcing Dronacharya to invoke Suryastra, dispersing the gust and nullifying the attack.

Undeterred, Ekalavya unleashed the Parjanyastra, summoning a sudden downpour to obscure Dronacharya's vision.

The crowd gasped as Dronacharya's composure faltered for a brief moment.

Dronacharya already knew Ekalavya was very good at archery, and he had asked for Ekalavya's right thumb as Guru-dakshina so that Ekalavya could never lift his bow. But now here he was, fighting the very one who had mastered archery with his left hand.

Dronacharya gritted his teeth, seeing Ekalavya's mastery over his astras. He thought, "Ekalavya... even after taking his thumb, he mastered archery... With his left hand? The resilience of this boy is extraordinary. And Shon, with such precision and natural skill... perhaps I should have taught them after all..."

Arjun, watching the fight, clenched his fists. His eyes burned with jealousy as his teacher was visibly pushed to his limits by Ekalavya.

From the sidelines, Karna observed with admiration. "Shon and Ekalavya are displaying remarkable control over their astras. But will it be enough against Acharya Drona?"

Shon and Ekalavya nodded at each other, silently agreeing to alternate their attacks. Even though this is the first time they are fighting together, their bond was evident in their coordination. They seemed to read each other's moves effortlessly.

Shon fired the Nagastra, an arrow that transformed into a venomous serpent mid-flight. The serpent hissed, slithering through the air with deadly precision toward Dronacharya.

Dronacharya countered by invoking the Garudastra, a divine eagle that neutralized the serpent.

Ekalavya followed immediately with Suryastra, blinding Dronacharya momentarily.

"That coordination... is remarkable. Such unity in battle is rare," murmured Bhishma, watching the fight with keen interest and admiration for the two young archers.

Dronacharya, now visibly strained and frustrated, summoned the Aindrastra, creating a barrage of arrows raining down like a storm.

Shon countered with the Shailastra, an arrow that raised a wall of stone, shielding both himself and Ekalavya.

Ekalavya used the opening to fire the Agneyastra again, aiming for Dronacharya's blind spot.

Dronacharya retaliated with Varunastra once more, but the sheer speed of the attack forced him to move defensively.

Sweat beaded on Dronacharya's furrowed brow as he moved defensively for the first time. His knuckles pale as he gripped his bow tightly... a rare sign of strain.

Realizing that he could not overpower the duo easily, Dronacharya shifted his strategy.

Dronacharya invoked the Sammohanastra, to disorient the minds of his opponents and break their coordination.

A wave of divine energy rippled through the arena, Ekalavya and Shon stumbled, almost losing their grip on their bows.

Taking advantage of their disorientation, Dronacharya fired a rapid series of arrows aimed at their unprotected spots. For a moment, it seemed as though the fight would end in his favor.

Shon, still shaken, accidentally misfired an arrow that narrowly missed Ekalavya.

Karna's heart skipped a beat. "Focus, Shon!" he muttered under his breath, his fists clenched.

But Ekalavya regained clarity, countering with the Prajnastra, to neutralize the disorienting effects of the Sammohanastra, restoring clarity to their minds.

Shon immediately invoked the Maghavana astra, creating an illusion of countless arrows, each appearing as real and deadly as the next.

Dronacharya's eyes darted around as he struggled to discern the real arrows from the mirage. The sheer scale of the illusion forced him to pause, giving Ekalavya the opportunity to strike.

Everyone watched in awe as the two young warriors coordinated their moves flawlessly, their moves a blend of precision and instinct.

Dronacharya was visibly shaken. For the first time, it was clear that he was being pushed to his limits.

Realizing he might lose, Dronacharya summoned BRAHMASTRA.

But before he could release it, Karna stepped forward, his voice commanding, "ACHARYA DRONA, is this how the greatest teacher handles defeat? By using a Brahmastra against students who have earned their skills through sheer determination? Acharya, today, Shon and Ekalavya have proven that greatness is not bound by birth. It is earned through effort and determination. Do not let your pride overshadow their hard-earned skill. Let their valor be remembered, even if you choose to dismiss it."

Dronacharya hesitated, his pride warring with his sense of honor. His grip on his bow tightened. His thoughts churned, "If I concede, it will tarnish my pride. But if I release the Brahmastra, it will be an eternal stain on my honor as a teacher. What do I do?"

Before Dronacharya could decide, Bhishma rose from his seat. "This battle is over. Both sides have proven their worth."

The crowd erupted in applause as Shon and Ekalavya bowed deeply.

Dronacharya lowered his bow, visibly fatigued, and spoke grudgingly. "Your skills... are extraordinary. But do not let this victory fill you with arrogance."

As he looked at them, his thoughts churned. "These two... could surpass even my finest student. But I will never acknowledge it."

From the sidelines, Arjun's jaw tightened as his gaze flicked to Karna, whose words had halted the match.

A seed of resentment took root.

"Vrisha... He's always interfering. He even stopped Gurudev from using Brahmastra! Who does he think he is? First Ekalavya, now this... No matter what, I will prove myself superior."

---------------------------------------------------------

Even though Bhishma and Dronacharya wanted to drag the fight till sunset and not let Vrisha(Karna) to fight, the fight ended before that.

Dronacharya looked at Karna with a smirk.

With a proud smile, Dronacharya placed a hand on Arjun's shoulder and started praising him. "Arjun, this duel will prove why you are the greatest archer and my most accomplished student, blessed by your dedication and divine lineage as a Dev-putra."

Karna, who had been silently observing, immediately turned to Parashurama. His eyes narrowing slightly, and with an almost playful tone, he said loud enough for everyone to hear. "GURUDEV!"

Everyone turned to look at Karna. "It seems some here are too eager to declare their favorite students."

Parashurama raised an eyebrow, silently cursing under his breath. "No... Noo...Never... I can see where this is going... and what this Nalayak is suggesting... If I admit now... He would never let me live in peace and always bring it up whenever I say he's not my favorite student... Mahadev... Save me from your son..."

Karna, oblivious to his Gurudev's inner turmoil, pointed toward Dronacharya. His voice loud enough for everyone to hear. "Gururdev, it's only fair that you share your perspective. Admit to everyone present here that I am your favorite student... Or are you going to let them think otherwise?"

Bhishma raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the unfolding scene.

While Dronacharya, on the other hand, rolled his eyes in annoyance.

Parashurama glared at Karna. "Vrisha, you really know how to put me on the spot."

Karna leaned in closer and whispered in Parashurama's ear, "Gururdev... Mata Amba already told me that you said I'm your favorite student... So just admit it..."

Parashurama's eyes widened, and he muttered to himself, "These ladies... how do they fall for Karna's innocent face and always support him...?"

Karna noticed Parashurama's hesitation, and now he was not going to leave this matter until it's settled. "Gurudev, tell everyone here that I'm your favorite student!" He pointed toward Bhishma and Dronacharya and added. "Especially in front of them!!"

Parashurama raised an eyebrow in mock disbelief. "Oh? You want me to admit that now? Right now? In front of everyone?"

Karna nodded eagerly, even though his face was covered, one could still see his grin widening like a mischievous child who knew he was about to win.

Before Parashurama could respond, Arjun, who had been listening, groaned and spoke up, his voice dripping with sarcasm and disbelief. "WAIT... SO NOW I HAVE TO FIGHT A CHILD? 😭"

Karna spun around, in mock offense and genuine irritation. "Oye! I am your elder bro-" He stopped abruptly, realizing his slip. "I mean... I'm older than you! Older than your elder brother... So you better respect me... or, uh... give me the respect I deserve!"

Arjun smirked, folded his arms, and did a playful namaskara, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Alright then... PITAMAH (Grandfather)"

Karna's jaw dropped. His eyes widened in disbelief. "You!!! How dare you call me Pitam-" He stopped mid-sentence when he heard a burst of laughter.

Turning, he saw Parashurama chuckling softly, while Ashwa laughing uncontrollably, clutching his sides.

Karna, eyes narrowing with growing frustration, looked at Parashurama first. "Gurudev! You're laughing? At me? He's calling me Pitamah, and you find it funny!"

Parashurama, still chuckling, waved him off. "What did you call me the other day? Hmm? Old Man? This is what karma looks like-Jaise karni, waise bharni!" (As you sow, so shall you reap!)

Karna groaned. "Gurudev! There's a difference between you and me... In both appearance and age..."

Parashurama rolled his eyes and playfully hit Karna's head from behind, as if saying, "Enough!"

Karna huffed and turned to Ashwa, who was still laughing.

Their eyes locked. It was as if they were silently having an entire conversation.

Karna's gaze was sharp as if asking, "Are you done laughing?"

Ashwa shaking his head and wiping tears from his eyes as he met Karna's gaze, his eyes teasing, as though saying, "No, not yet! You can glare all you want, but I'm not stopping."

Suyodhana standing beside Ashwa, tried to stop him. "Mitra Ashwa, stop laughing now. Can't you see he's looking at you angrily?"

Suyo looking at Karna continued. "He is the stranger I told you about who ran away... And did you see how he hit Bhima... If you don't stop now... next is your turn..."

Ashwa only laughed harder hearing Suyo. Because Suyo had called Karna - the stranger as thief and now Karna was called a child and Pitamah by Arjun.

Karna looked at Chirayu, silently commanding him to stop Ashwa.

But Chirayu, for the first time supported Ashwa and simply turned his head away, pretending to admire the crowd..



Karna turned slightly in disbelief. He placed his hands on his hips and looked at Ashwa, giving one final unmistakable warning, "Stop now or else..."

But Ashwa didn't care at all. He only rolled his eyes.

Karna clenched his fists, clearly on the edge of losing his patience. He stepped toward Ashwa, ready to silence him by force if necessary.

However, before Karna could get any closer, Parashurama grabbed his arm. "Enough, Vrisha. Let it go."

Karna sighed heavily, glancing at Ashwa one last time before turning back to his Gurudev, reluctantly letting the matter drop. "Ji Gururdev..." he muttered. He gave Ashwa one final look, a silent promise of, "I will see to you later..."

Ashwa, still not caring, saw the glare but simply shrugged, his eyes communicating that he wasn't bothered, and mouthed to Karna. "Whatever..."

Parashurama, sensing the need to end the matter now, smiled, and addressed Bhishma and Dronacharya in a tone meant only for their ears.

"For the record, Vrisha is indeed my favorite student."

Karna's brow furrowed, he leaned closer to Parashurama and whispered, "Gurudev, why only tell them? Say it louder, so everyone can hear!"

Parashurama's patience finally wore thin. He just pushed Karna forward with a good-natured but firm shove. He gestured toward the waiting duel. "Enough of your antics, nalayak! Just go and finish the fight. Stop testing my patience!"

Karna rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath, but he knew better than to continue testing his Gurudev's patience. He turned toward the battlefield, ready for the duel ahead.

Before Karna could take a step forward, Parashurama spoke again, his voice filled with confident authority, "Vrisha after this fight when you win... I will admit in front of everyone!"

Karna paused, he turned toward his Gurudev and nodded silently acknowledging Parashurama's belief in him.

Bhishma and Dronacharya exchanged a look, both intrigued by the bond between Karna and his Gurudev.

Bhishma couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for the connection they shared.

Dronacharya silently observed the exchange, noting Bhagawan Parashurama's last words. The confidence and conviction in his Gurudev's voice weren't easily dismissed.

Bhishma and Dronacharya knew Bhagawan Parashurama was not a man prone to making empty declarations, and the firm belief in Karna's victory could very well mean that there was more to this young warrior than met the eye.

Bhishma, Dronacharya, and the rest of the onlookers found themselves quietly wondering: could Vrisha truly emerge victorious against Arjun, as Parashurama so confidently proclaimed?

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Fight between Karna and Arjun

Arjun, the pride of Hastinapur, stood stood at the center of the arena, fierce and determined, with his bow ready to prove he was the greatest archer.

On the other side stood Karna, calm and composed, without any armor. His posture was confident, yet free from arrogance.

Arjun smirked as he looked at Karna's unprotected chest. "No armor? Are you waiting for us to give you some? Or are you already too confident?"

Karna chuckled, his voice deep and calm. "There is no need for armor, Arjun. My strength comes from within. I do not fight for my protection, I fight for the truth."

Arjun's eyes then shifted to Karna's left hand, where he held his bow - Rudra Danush, a deceptively ordinary-looking bow. "And this bow? What kind of bow is that? It looks like something a child would play with. Don't you know a true archer needs a proper weapon?"

Karna's laugh silenced the murmurs in the arena. With quiet confidence, he said, "The worth of this bow is not in its appearance, Arjun. This bow is all I need because the strength of an arrow lies not in the bow but its wielder."

Arjun scoffed. "Don't come crying later, claiming I had an advantage because of my armor or my weapon. You're still playing with fire."

Karna looked at him for a moment, seeing the jealousy and pride in Arjun's words. He simply replied, "You misunderstand. It's not about advantages... It's not about winning or losing... It's about learning and growth... What matters is how much we learn from each fight. Don't let pride cloud your purpose."

Arjun clenched his fists, feeling his anger rising, but he suppressed it. "We'll see if your words match your skill."

The fight Begins

The moment the signal was given, Arjun drew his bow and fired. His arrows were fast, precise, and powerful, each one aiming to overpower Karna. He used every ounce of his training under Dronacharya to execute his strikes.

But Karna, standing with calm composure, dodged or blocked each arrow effortlessly, barely breaking a sweat.

Everyone watched in stunned silence.

Karna countered each attack effortlessly, sometimes disarming Arjun's arrows mid-flight, other times redirecting them with subtle movements of his hand.

It was clear that Karna was holding back, not in a way that belittled Arjun, but in a was a way of showing Arjun or teaching him that there was more to archery than what Arjun had leaned so far.

Karna called out. "Focus, Arjun! Your arrows are too predictable. You must anticipate, not just react."

Arjun gritted his teeth, unwilling to back down. He focused all his attention on every shot, and the tension in the air grew as their arrows collided in the air, creating a symphony of combat.

Karna remained a step ahead, easily deflecting Arjun's attacks.

Frustration began to creep into Arjun's mind. His shots became more faster, and more aggressive.

The Astras clash

Arjun invoked the Agneyastra, aiming to engulf Karna in flames. The arrow shot forward with a blazing intensity.

Karna calmly countered with the Varuna astra, extinguishing the flames before they could reach him.

The crowd gasped at Karna's precision.

Arjun then invoked the Vayavyastra, a wind-based weapon, hoping to overwhelm Karna with a whirlwind.

Karna responded by summoning the Parvatiastra, creating a massive stone wall that neutralized the winds with ease.

Undeterred, Arjun fired the Nagapasha, serpent-like ropes to bind Karna.

Karna invoked the Garudastra, which tore through the serpentine bindings, scattering them harmlessly into the air.

Arjun summoned the Aindra Astra, and Karna countered with the Antardhana Astra, which rendered the attack invisible, dissolving the Aindra Astra before it could reach him.

Arjun, determined, fired the Bhauma Astra, a weapon imbued with the power of the earth, hoping to crush Karna under its weight.

Karna easily summoned the Parjanya Astra, calling down rain that nullified the Bhauma Astra's power and neutralized its effect.

From the sidelines, Bhishma, Dronacharya, and the others observed the fight intently.

Dronacharya spoke quietly. "Arjun is giving his all. But Vrisha... he is barely moving. It's as if Vrisha is toying with Arjun, waiting for him to rise to a level he hasn't yet reached..."

The battle intensifies...

Arjun's frustration grew. He could feel his energy waning as Karna continued to defend with ease.

For the first time, doubt crept into Arjun's mind. "How is he doing this? How has he surpassed me so completely?"

His confidence began to waver, and his grip on his bow tightened.

Desperate, Arjun summoned the SURYASTRA, an arrow shining with the brilliance of a thousand suns. It streaked toward Karna.

Karna paused, lowering his bow.

"The Suryastra is my father's, and I cannot disrespect my father by countering it..."

With that said, he made no move to stop the arrow. Instead, he just stood there as the Suryastra approached him.

The crowd gasped.

"What is he doing?"

"Why isn't he countering the Suryastra?"

Kunti stood up immediately, her heart raced and she ALMOST FAINTED.

She clutched her chest in relief as the Suryastra transformed into flowers, gently touching Karna. Tears streamed down her face as she silently thanked Suryadev.

(Note - Karna's Kavach did not appear yet...)

Vritrasura expression changed. He didn't need to see the Kavach to realize that Vrisha was the Suryaputra with divine Kavach Kundals.

Shakuni was shocked. He understood who Vrisha was exactly. He quickly turned to Ashwa and asked, "Is he Karna? Our Aditya?"

Ashwa just nodded with a smile.

The Kauravas and Pandavas heard Shakuni. They remembered hearing the names Karna and Aditya before but did not know who he was.

But Suyo, on the other hand, was confused by Shakuni's words, as he thought. "Our Aditya? What does Mamashree mean by that? Why is he is so happy now with Vrisha..." He stared at Karna, trying to understand who exactly he was...

Bhishma's eyes widened as soon as he heard Karna's words. He turned to Parashurama and asked, "Gurudev! Is he... He is..."

Parashurama nodded, understanding that Bhishma finally recognised Karna. "You finally recognize your grandson..."

Dronacharya in complete shock 🤯, "What? Grandson? Gururdev? Mahamahim Bhishma? What do you mean? I don't understand?"

Arjun's frustration continued to rise as he noticed his arrows and astras being nullified with such ease. Yet, he refused to give up.

Arjun prepared another shot, this time focusing all of his energy into a single strike. He invokes the Aindra Astra once again. The arrow crackled with celestial energy, ready to devastate everything in its path.

But Karna remained calm. He lifted his bow once more, the Rudra Danush that looked like an extension of his arm. With a single, controlled movement, he summoned the BRAHMASTRA in its basic form. As the two astras collided in midair, a brilliant flash of light erupted. The Brahmastra absorbed the energy of the Aindra Astra, nullifying its destructive force while ensuring no harm is caused to the surroundings or anyone in the arena. The energies of the two astras merged briefly before dissipating harmlessly into the air leaving the arena unharmed.

Arjun watched in awe as Karna manipulated the Brahmastra with such precision and mastery - controlling it rather than using it for destruction.

The crowd watched in stunned silence, awestruck by Karna's control and skill.

Dronacharya whispered, "Even in an arena full of people, he used the Brahmastra with such precision that no soul is harmed... It's like he controls the weapons completely, as though they are an extension of his own will."

Bhishma looked at Karna with pride.

Arjun refused to give in. He fought with everything he had, summoning astras that Karna easily countered or redirected.

Every time Arjun thought he had an opening, Karna would guide him.

Karna's respect for Arjun was clear in his words. "You are skilled, Arjun. But your pride blinds you. You must learn to fight with purpose, not arrogance."

Arjun snapped. "You think you can lecture me? I will not be your student!"

Karna replied, calmly. "I am not your teacher... But there is always something to learn in every battle. Do not forget that."

AND THEN, THE MOMENT ARRIVED.

Karna decided it was time to end the fight. He took a single step forward and fired a single arrow.

The arrow struck Arjun's bow cleanly, disarming him. Arjun stumbled back, falling to the ground, his bow sliding away from his reach.

THE FIGHT WAS OVER.

Arjun sat on the ground, his breathing ragged.

Karna approached him, offering a hand to help him rise. "You fought well, Arjun. You fought with everything you had. It is not about the outcome, who wins or loses. It's about learning from the experience. Today, we both learned something-"

Arjun interrupted, glaring at Karna. He slapped Karna's hand away.

"I DO NOT NEED YOUR PITY!"

Karna sighed and simply nodded, understanding the depths of Arjun's pride. "This is not pity, ANUJ... This is respect."

"ANUJ? I AM NOT YOUR ANUJ!" Arjun retorted angrily.

Arjun pushed Karna away from him with both his hands and added, "DON'T EVEN TRY TO BECOME MY BROTHER. BECAUSE YOU ARE NOT!"

Karna stumbled backwards but regained his footing.

Bhishma stepped forward. "ARJUN!! Apologize right now! You don't know who he is -"

Karna turned, walking toward Bhishma, interrupting him. "Old man! You finally recognize me? I told you I would be Parashurama's shishya one day."

Bhishma nodded, moving toward Karna with a smile, but stopped looking behind Karna, and his expression changed completely.

Arjun's pride was wounded. Anger surged through him, as he remembered how Karna had stopped his Gurudev Dronacharya from using the Brahmastra against Shon and Ekalavya. Arjun had not liked Karna's interference then... And now, he was feeling humiliated in front of everyone, and could not bear the thought of being lectured by Karna.

Hearing Bhishma tell him to apologize to Karna only added fuel to the fire and deepened his anger and frustration.

Without thinking, Arjuna invoked the BRAHMASTRA. The devastating weapon appeared in his hand, ready to launch at Karna's back.

"NO!!! ARJUN! DON'T!" Bhishma shouted.

"MITRA KARNA!!" Ashwa yelled and started running toward Karna.

Karna stopped mid-step, sensing the Brahmastra. He turned just as Arjun released the Brahmastra.

Karna immediately dropped his bow as the Brahmastra approached. His Kavach appeared, shining brightly.

Gasps echoed throughout the arena as they saw the Kavach.

The collective gasp turned into murmurs and cries of shock, awe, and disbelief.

Every single soul present immediately recognized Karna and stood up in their places, eyes wide and they shouted...

(Guess who shouted what...)

"YUVRAJ ADITYA!!!"

"PUTRA KARNA!!!"

"BHRATA KARNA!!!"

"BHRATA VASU!!!"

"I KNEW IT... THAT YOU WERE THE SURYAPUTRA!!!"

"VASUSEN!!!"

"ADITYA!!!"

"RUDRA!!!"

"BHRATA RUDRA!!!"

"MERE BACHE!!!"

The Pandavas and Kauravas looked around the whole arena as the sounds of "YUVRAJ ADITYA!!!" and "PUTRA KARNA!!!" filled the air. Each of them turned, a 360-degree turn, as though caught in a whirlwind of shock, their eyes scanning in every direction. They were left staring at each other, eyes wide, exchanging confused glances, trying to piece together what was happening around them.

As the Brahmastra reached Karna, it transformed into a garland around his neck.

Relief washed over Bhishma and everyone else, stopping them in their tracks for a moment.

Karna's Kavach was still present, shining brightly. His anger was clear as he clenched his fists and rushed toward Arjun.

Arjun took a few steps back, terrified as he watched Karna approach. He felt as though a lion was heading toward him.

Karna grabbed Arjun's neck and lifted him slightly so their eyes met. "How dare you use the Brahmastra!!! Do you even understand its purpose? Its power? Just to win a fight -"

BUT SUDDENLY, KARNA STOPPED MID-SENTENCE. HIS GRIP ON ARJUN LOOSENED, AND HIS BODY SWAYED BEFORE COLLAPSING TO THE GROUND, UNCONSCIOUS.

Bhagwan Parashurama, Bhishma, Ashwa were the first to react, rushing to Karna.

Dhritharastra, Pandu, Vidur, Gandhari, Radha and Shakuni also hurried to Karna's side.

Kunti fainted the moment she saw Karna's Kavach and the Brahmastra heading toward him. Madir and Subala steadied her.

The arena was a complete choas.

Shock, confusion, and concern rippled through the gathered crowd as everyone saw Karna lying unconscious.

Karna lay unconscious on the ground, his body still and his eyes closed. HIS KAVACH SHINING BRIGHTLY.

Parashurama knelt beside him, his expression unreadable as he scanned Karna's form, understanding dawning on him.

His gaze flicked from Karna to Arjun, his anger suddenly flaring, his voice sharp and thunderous.

"ARJUN!!! I JAMADAGNI PUTRA, -"

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Oh no what happened next? 🤔🥺😭.

Well... let's find out in the next chapter... 😜🤭

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To be continued...

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How was the chapter?

What do you think about the fight between, Dronacharya, Shon, Ekalavya, Karn and Arjun. I request you to give your feedback so that I can know if I should write it in the same way or change it in any upcoming chapters... And if I wrote something wrong please correct me...

And the previous chapter and this are supposed to be one chapter but as you know I could not finish it before... So this was the cliffhanger I originally planned...

I know I took my time to update... but I hope you enjoyed the chapter...

So... now that the final part of Kala Pradarshan has been updated... I would love to hear your thoughts!! What do you think of the Kala Pradarshan overall, across all three chapters? DID IT MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS? Let me know... I'm excited to hear your feedback 🙏😁

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