Karna's grip on Divine Axe-Rhitta relaxed slightly as he listened to Vidur's words. The sudden shift in topic caught him off guard, but he maintained a composed demeanour.
"King Dhritarashtra wishes for me to attend the gurukul with the princes and princesses of the kingdom?" Karna repeated, his brow furrowing in thought. He considered the offer, weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks.
Attending the Gurukul could provide an opportunity to further his knowledge and skills and foster relationships with other prominent figures in the kingdom. However, he was also aware of the political dynamics at play and the potential for further manipulation.
"I appreciate King Dhritarashtra's invitation," Karna replied, his voice measured. "I will give careful consideration to this proposal. I will send my answer to his majesty when I am ready to make a decision. For now, I bid you farewell, Mahamantri Vidur."
As Vidur left, Karna turned toward his mother but was left speechless—well why you ask because she was holding an extra sharp knife with a dark expression on her face while muttering something under her breath rapidly like, "How... Dare... You... Threaten... MY... Son... DIE... DIE..." looking at Vidur's fading back.
Startled by his mother's unexpected behaviour, Karna rushed towards her, concern etched on his face. He reached out to gently take hold of the knife, ensuring her safety as well as his own.
"Mother, please," Karna pleaded, his voice filled with worry and confusion. "Calm yourself. What has come over you?"
Karna's mother seemed lost in her anger and frustration, her eyes filled with a mix of pain and fury. She slowly released the knife from her grip, breathing heavily and laboured.
"I... I'm sorry, Karna," she whispered, tears streaming down her face. "I couldn't bear to see you threatened like that. The mere thought of anyone harming you... it ignited a fire within me."
Karna's heart ached as he witnessed his mother's distress. He embraced her tightly, offering comfort and reassurance.
"Mother, I am unharmed," Karna said softly, his voice laced with empathy. "Your love and protectiveness for me are understandable, but we mustn't let anger consume us. We will handle these challenges together, with wisdom and strength."
His mother nodded, her trembling gradually subsiding as she found solace in her son's words. Karna released her from their embrace and wiped away her tears with a gentle touch.
His father, Adhiratha came running into the house as he heard the commotion. Concern and worry etched on his face, he hurried towards Karna and his mother.
"What happened?" Adhiratha asked, his voice filled with urgency. "Is everything alright?"
Karna turned to his father, his expression solemn but composed. He explained the encounter with Vidur and the proposition he had brought forward, as well as his mother's reaction to the threat.
Adhiratha listened attentively, his gaze shifting between Karna and his wife. He nodded as he absorbed the information.
He understood Radha's fierce love and protectiveness for Karna, But he didn't know that his son had a divine weapon that even Mahamantri (Prime Minister) Vidur didn't recognise.
After Karna finished recounting the events, Adhiratha sighed deeply, his face displaying a mix of concern and contemplation. He placed a comforting hand on Karna's shoulder, a gesture of support and reassurance.
"Karna, my son," Adhiratha began, his voice filled with fatherly warmth. "I understand your mother's reaction. Her love for you knows no bounds. But we must approach this situation with caution and wisdom."
He turned to Radha, gently taking her hands in his. "Radha, my love," he said, his voice soft and comforting. "I know your heart aches for Karna's safety, as does mine. But we must trust in his strength and judgment. We will face these challenges together, united as a family."
Radha nodded, her tears gradually subsiding as she found solace in Adhiratha's words. She looked at Karna with renewed determination and love, her eyes filled with a mixture of pride and concern.
"Karna, my brave son," she said, her voice steady and filled with maternal warmth. "You have faced many trials and tribulations, and each time, you have emerged stronger. Trust in your abilities and instincts, but also rely on the support and love of your family. We are here for you, always."
Karna felt a surge of gratitude and love welling up within him. He embraced his parents, their presence providing him with strength and comfort.
"Worry not I'm here too Bhrata (Brother)."
Little Krishna too jumped into the embrace, joining the family moment. His mischievous smile and playful demeanour brought a sense of lightness to the atmosphere, momentarily alleviating the tension.
Karna chuckled, his heart filled with warmth at Krishna's presence. He ruffled Krishna's hair affectionately and looked at his family, a determined gleam in his eyes.
As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over their home, Everyone all also came back home, Some from work, Some from playing like Kamini and Brinda.
Karna went to the kitchen to make something delicious for the family. His skilled hands moved deftly in the kitchen, selecting ingredients with care and precision. Cooking had become a passion of his, a way to express his creativity and show his love for his family.
"Bhrata (Brother) use Makhan (Butter) too, Food's taste will become even more divine."
Krishna chimed in, his eyes twinkling mischievously.
Karna laughed, reaching for a jar of freshly churned butter. He added a generous dollop to the dish, knowing Krishna's love for its rich and creamy taste. The aroma of spices filled the air as Karna prepared a feast fit for a king.
Soon, the family gathered around the dining table, their hearts filled with gratitude and love. They savoured the flavoursome meal, with laughter, cherishing the moments of togetherness.
At that moment, surrounded by loved ones, Karna felt a sense of peace and strength. Whatever challenges lay ahead, he knew he had a family who would always stand by his side.
""Karna, I have decided that from tomorrow, I will start training you in all my arts and skills.""
Suddenly Indrajit's voice sounded inside his mind.
Now, the prospect of learning from this ancient soul fragment intrigued him.
"Indrajit," Karna replied silently, acknowledging the presence of the legendary warrior. "I am honoured by your offer to train me in your arts and skills. Your reputation as a formidable warrior precedes you. I accept your offer with gratitude and look forward to learning from you."
Indrajit's voice resonated within Karna's mind, filled with a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. "Very well, Karna. Prepare yourself for a journey of enlightenment and empowerment. We shall begin tomorrow at dawn."
Karna nodded inwardly, his determination growing stronger. The opportunity to train under Indrajit, a warrior of great renown, was an extraordinary chance to enhance his skills and acquire new knowledge.
As the night drew to a close and the family retired to their respective chambers, Karna's mind buzzed with excitement and a touch of nervousness.
He knew that the path ahead would be demanding, requiring dedication and perseverance. However, he was ready to embrace the challenges that awaited him.
[Next Day]
Karna composed a letter to King Dhritarashtra, expressing his gratitude for the invitation to the gurukul but respectfully declining the offer.
He explained his decision, highlighting his current commitments and responsibilities. Karna's words were carefully chosen to convey his appreciation for the opportunity while maintaining his own path.
Once the letter was sealed and sent, Karna focused his attention on the training that awaited him with Indrajit. He prepared himself physically and mentally, knowing that the days ahead would be intense and transformative.
He performed his morning rituals and prepared himself for the training session with Indrajit.
As the first rays of sunlight kissed the earth, Karna made his way to the designated training ground. Indrajit stood there, a figure of immense power and wisdom, waiting for him.
Karna was surprised to see Indrajit outside his (Karna's) body, his astral form standing before him. It was an ethereal sight, and Karna felt a surge of reverence for this ancient warrior's spirit.
"How did you manage to manifest your astral form, Indrajit?"
Karna asked, his voice filled with curiosity and respect.
Indrajit smiled, his eyes gleaming with a combination of wisdom and mischief.
"Ah, Karna, the astral realm holds many secrets and abilities. As a warrior-soul, I have honed my skills in traversing different planes of existence. Through deep meditation and focused intent, I found that I can take this form using your magical reserves which you haven't touched yet which we will change soon."
Karna nodded, absorbing Indrajit's explanation. He understood that his connection with the ancient warrior's soul fragment allowed for unique possibilities and growth.
"Teach me, Indrajit," Karna said with determination. "I am ready to embrace the knowledge and power you possess. Guide me on this path of enlightenment."
"And I'm sorry if don't call you Guru/ Teacher because destiny already has found a guru for me."
Indrajit chuckled, appreciating Karna's honesty and humility.
"There is no need to apologize, Karna," he replied, his voice filled with warmth. "But I would like to know the name of your destined Guru."
"Of course, The name of my destined Guru is Bhagwan (Lord/God) Parshuram."
Indrajit's eyes widened in surprise upon hearing the name of Karna's destined Guru. Parshuram, the great sage and warrior, was known for his immense knowledge and skill in warfare. Indrajit respected the revered Guru and understood the significance of Karna's connection with him.
"Parshuram, the wielder of the divine axe!" Indrajit exclaimed, his voice tinged with reverence. "Truly, you are blessed, Karna. To be guided by Parshuram is a tremendous honour."
Karna nodded, a sense of gratitude filling his heart. He had always felt a deep reverence for Parshuram and knew that his guidance would be invaluable in shaping his path as a warrior.
"Indeed, Indrajit. I am grateful for the blessings bestowed upon me," Karna replied, his voice steady. "But for now, I seek your guidance and teachings."
"Very well, Karna," he said, his voice resonating within Karna's mind.
Indrajit's astral form began to emanate a soft, ethereal light, and he extended his hand towards Karna.
"First, we shall delve into the realm of combat," Indrajit spoke with a voice that resonated deep within Karna's being. "Prepare yourself, Karna, for we shall engage in a spar where I will test your skills and push you beyond your limits."