[3rd Person POV]
Meanwhile, in Hastinapur, the capital city of the Kuru Kingdom, the political landscape was undergoing significant changes.
Kunti, wife of former King Pandu and mother of the Pandavas, was in her royal chamber which had been granted to her just yesterday upon her return from the forest to Hastinapur. She was deep in thought, contemplating the recent turn of events and the fate of her sons, the Pandavas.
Upon her return, she came to know of the now Crown Prince Duryodhana, whom she considered unfit to rule. She knew that her sons, the Pandavas, were the rightful heirs to the throne, but the path to claiming their birthright was filled with challenges and obstacles.
As Kunti pondered over the situation, she heard a knock on her chamber door. She composed herself and called out, "Enter."
The door creaked open, revealing the figure of Vidura, the wise and trusted advisor to the kingdom. He entered the room with a grave expression on his face, a reflection of the turmoil in the kingdom.
"Vidura," Kunti greeted him, her voice filled with concern. "What news do you bring?"
Vidura sighed deeply before responding. "Sister-in-law, the political situation in Hastinapur is becoming less favourable to the Pandavas with each passing day.
Duryodhana's influence and power are growing. The people love him as their prince and support his claim to the throne. He has managed to win the loyalty of many influential figures in the kingdom."
Kunti's heart sank at Vidura's words. She had hoped that her sons' return to Hastinapur would bring about a change in their fortunes, but it seemed the challenges they faced were far from over.
"What can we do, Vidura?" Kunti asked, her voice filled with a mix of determination and worry. "How can we ensure that justice prevails and my sons reclaim what is rightfully theirs?"
"We have hope, but the Pandavas are also not doing a good job of raising their image—well, mostly because of Bheema's bullying of the other princes and of Dushala, the apple of everyone's eye and the only sister of the Kauravas."
Vidura's words struck a chord with Kunti. She knew that the actions of her sons, particularly Bheema's aggressive behaviour and their rivalry with the Kauravas, had played a role in tarnishing their image.
Kunti understood that winning the support of the people was crucial if the Pandavas were to reclaim their birthright.
"Vidura, you speak the truth," Kunti acknowledged with a solemn nod. "We must address these issues and find a way to repair the damage that has been done. The people must see the true character and worth of the Pandavas."
Vidura contemplated for a moment before responding. "Sister-in-law, I believe it is time for a change in strategy. We must employ diplomatic means to win the favour of the people and showcase the virtues and capabilities of the Pandavas. It is important to highlight their qualities as leaders, warriors, and advocates of justice."
Kunti listened attentively, her mind racing with possibilities. She knew that diplomacy and statesmanship were strengths of Vidura, and his guidance would be invaluable in navigating the treacherous political landscape.
"Vidura, I trust your wisdom in these matters," Kunti said earnestly. "Please advise me on the steps we should take to improve the perception of the Pandavas among the people. We must find a way to counter Duryodhana's influence and gain the support of influential figures who can help us in our cause."
"Yes, but real change can only come if the Pandavas themselves are willing to make amends and demonstrate their worthiness," Vidura added, his gaze steady. "They must show humility, compassion, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the kingdom and its people. Actions speak louder than words, Sister-in-law, and it is through their actions that the Pandavas can win the hearts of the people."
Kunti nodded, understanding the gravity of Vidura's words. She knew that the Pandavas had to rise above their grievances and focus on the greater good. They needed to prove themselves as leaders who would prioritize justice and fairness.
"I will speak with my sons," Kunti affirmed. "They must understand the urgency of the situation and the need for a change in their approach."
"But first they have to complete their studies and then begin their warfare training under Guru Dronacharya," Vidura interjected.
"They need to equip themselves with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel as warriors and leaders. Only then can they truly prove their worth and gain the respect of the people."
Kunti agreed wholeheartedly. "Yes, education and training are essential. I will ensure that they receive the best education and mentorship from Guru Dronacharya. They must become not only skilled warriors but also wise and just rulers."
"MATAAAAA!!!" (Mother)
A young pig—cough**cough—boy barged into the room, interrupting the conversation between Kunti and Vidura. It was Bheema, the second eldest of the Pandava brothers. He was known for his immense strength and appetite, and his boisterous entrance was a reflection of his energetic nature.
"MATAAAAA!!!" (Mother) Bheema called out, gasping for breath after running to his mother's chamber.
Kunti turned her attention to Bheema, concern etched on her face. "What is it, Bheema? Why are you in such a hurry?"
Bheema caught his breath and spoke between gasps.
"Mata (Mother), we challenged those worthless Kauravas, but Duryodhana defeated me. Even then, I managed to punch Dushala at least."
Kunti's eyes widened at Bheema's revelation. She exchanged a worried glance with Vidura, realizing the potential consequences of such an altercation.
"Bheema," Kunti said sternly, her voice tinged with both admonishment and concern. "You know that resorting to violence is not the solution. We must find a way to resolve these conflicts peacefully."
Bheema hung his head, his excitement deflating as he realized his mistake. "I'm sorry, Mata (Mother)," he muttered, his voice filled with regret. "I let my anger get the best of me."
Kunti's expression softened, and she walked over to Bheema, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "It's alright, Bheema. We all make mistakes, but we must learn from them. We must show restraint and seek peaceful resolutions."
Vidura stepped forward, his voice calm but firm. "Bheema, you possess great strength, but it is important to channel that strength in a responsible and controlled manner. Your actions reflect not only on yourself but also on the entire Pandava clan. We must uphold the values of righteousness and justice."
Bheema nodded, his remorse evident. "I understand, Kakashri (Uncle). I will strive to control my temper and seek peaceful solutions. I want to prove that the Pandavas are worthy of the throne."
Kunti smiled, pride shining in her eyes. "That is the spirit, Bheema. We will guide you and your brothers on this path. Together, we will win the hearts of the people and reclaim what is rightfully ours."
Vidura nodded approvingly. "Indeed, Sister-in-law. It is through unity, wisdom, and compassion that we will overcome these challenges. The Pandavas have the potential to be great leaders, and we must help them realize that potential."
As the conversation between Kunti, Bheema, and Vidura came to an end, they left the royal chamber.
In Vrindavan, Karna was in the Tower of Trials, standing in the lobby staring at the notification he received when he summoned the Sudarshana Chakra.
[Does the host want to form a soul pact with the Divine Weapon—Sudarshana Chakra?]
[Yes/No]
"What will happen if I were to form a soul pact with it, Artemis?"
[There is a slight chance of removing the existing pact which is of Lord Vishnu to it because of your 'War Gods Constitution'. But I have a possible solution to this problem. Would you like to hear it, Karna?]
"Yes, Artemis, I'm eager to hear your solution," Karna replied, his eyes fixed on the notification before him.
Artemis's voice resonated in Karna's mind, her tone filled with assurance.
[Since you possess the 'War Gods Constitution,' which allows you to form soul pacts with divine weapons, we can explore the possibility of forming a separate pact with Sudarshana Chakra while maintaining the existing pact with Lord Vishnu.]
"If my guess is right then, we have to use an Upgrade Ticket, yes?"
Artemis's voice echoed in Karna's mind as she responded to his question.
[Yes, Karna. In order to maintain the existing pact with Lord Vishnu while forming a separate pact with Sudarshana Chakra, we would need to use an Upgrade Ticket. Which in turn will increase its Soul Pact capacity by one.]
"But will Lord Vishnu or Krishna know about this?"
Artemis's voice carried a hint of amusement as she responded to Karna's question.
[Rest assured, Karna. The Upgrade Ticket will ensure that the existing pact remains intact, and Lord Vishnu or Krishna will not be aware of the additional pact with Sudarshana Chakra. It will be our little secret.]
Karna nodded, a sense of relief washing over him.
"Very well, Artemis. Let us proceed with the soul pact with Sudarshana Chakra while maintaining the existing pact with Lord Vishnu."
[Using Amethyst Upgrading Ticket on Sudarshana Chakra...]
[Upgrading...]
[...]
[Please wait...]
[Congratulations host...]