The rest of the evening was spent in joyful celebration, with music, dance, and storytelling filling the air.
The villagers expressed their gratitude to Karna through heartfelt speeches and gestures of appreciation, and Karna received their praise with humility and gratitude.
As the night grew darker and the festivities began to wind down, Karna and the family went home, Little Krishna sitting on Karna's shoulder.
Karna entered his home, the day's events replaying in his mind. He felt a sense of fulfilment and contentment, knowing that he had fulfilled his duty and protected the people and the forest he held dear.
As he settled down in his chamber-
*Knock**Knock*
"Bhrata (Brother) open the door~"
Karna was surprised to hear the voice outside his door. He quickly recognized the familiar tone and smiled.
"Balram!" Karna called out, unlocking the door and opening it to find his dear friend standing there with a grin.
"Balram, it's good to see you," Karna said, embracing his friend in a warm hug. "What brings you here?"
Balram returned the embrace, his eyes gleaming with admiration.
"My friend, I heard of your incredible victory against the Asuras. I had to come and congratulate you myself," Balram said, his voice filled with genuine happiness. "You've become a true warrior, Karna, and I couldn't be prouder."
"And Munna (Little Boy) wants to sleep with you tonight, Is that okay with you?"
Karna chuckled at Balram's question and looked down at Little Krishna, who was clinging to his shoulder.
Karna smiled at Little Krishna and nodded. "Of course, little Krishna can sleep with me tonight. I'm always happy to have him by my side."
Little Krishna giggled and wrapped his arms around Karna's neck, a mischievous sparkle in his eyes. Karna couldn't help but feel a deep love and affection for the young Krishna, knowing he was the embodiment of divine playfulness and innocence.
"Okay, Then I will take my leave, Shubh Ratri (Good Night)."
Balram bid his farewell, and Karna closed the door behind him, feeling a sense of warmth and contentment.
With Little Krishna by his side, Karna sat on his bed with a half-amusing and half-teasing face towards Little Krishna.
Karna gently poked Little Krishna's cheek, causing the young boy to giggle. "So, Little Krishna, were you watching me closely during the battles?" Karna asked playfully.
Little Krishna nodded eagerly, his eyes shining with excitement. "Yes, Karna! I saw everything! You were amazing!" he exclaimed.
Karna chuckled, ruffling Little Krishna's hair affectionately. "I'm glad you enjoyed the show, Krishna. But remember, it's not just about the fighting. It's also about protecting the people and the forest, ensuring peace and harmony."
Little Krishna's expression turned serious as he nodded in understanding. "I know, Karna. I will always support you and help you in any way I can. Together, we will make this world a better place."
Karna's heart swelled with love and admiration for the young Krishna. He knew that even in his playful and mischievous nature, there was wisdom and divinity that surpassed his years.
"You are wise beyond your age, Krishna," Karna said, his voice filled with affection. "I am grateful to have you by my side."
"You know that you have to go and seek Guru Parshuram for your studies and all right?"
Karna nodded, his expression serious. "Yes, Krishna, I'm aware that I need to seek Guru Parshuram's guidance and continue my training. I understand the importance of learning from a great master like him. It will help me further hone my skills."
"Oh! right Krishna, Can I speak to Lord Vishnu?"
Little Krishna's eyes twinkled mischievously as he looked up at Karna. "You want to speak to Lord Vishnu? Well, I suppose I can arrange that, Close your eyes" he said with a mischievous smile.
Karna closed his eyes as instructed, his heart filled with anticipation. He felt a sense of calm wash over him as he awaited his connection with Lord Vishnu.
After a few moments, Karna felt a warm presence surround him. He could sense the divine energy of Lord Vishnu enveloping him, filling him with a profound sense of peace and tranquillity.
"Karna, Open your eyes."
As Karna opened his eyes, he found himself standing in a vast, ethereal realm. Before him stood Lord Vishnu, adorned in his resplendent divine form, radiating an aura of serenity and wisdom.
"My dear Karna," Lord Vishnu spoke, his voice carrying the weight of eternity. "Why did you seek me?"
"My Lord Vishnu," Karna said, bowing respectfully. "I just want to know that, Why was I bought to Vrindavan, When my destiny should be in Hastinapur?"
Lord Vishnu smiled gently, his eyes filled with compassion. "Karna, my child, the path of destiny is not always linear or easily understood. I brought you to Vrindavan because it was here that you would find the experiences and lessons necessary for your growth and the fulfilment of your purpose."
"You were brought to Vrindavan to protect the innocent, to showcase your strength and valour, and to learn the values of love, devotion, and selflessness. The challenges you faced here and the battles you fought were not mere coincidences. They were tests that would shape you into the warrior you are destined to become."
"Your time in Vrindavan has not been in vain, Karna. Every battle you fought, every victory you achieved, has been a stepping stone on the path of your destiny. It was here that you awakened the dormant powers within you and forged deep connections with the people and the natural world."
Lord Vishnu's words resonated deep within Karna's heart, filling him with a sense of purpose and understanding. He realized that his journey in Vrindavan had not been a detour but an essential part of his destined path.
"Thank you, Lord Vishnu," Karna said, gratitude evident in his voice. "I understand now that every step I took in Vrindavan was part of a greater plan. I am grateful for the experiences and lessons I have gained here."
Lord Vishnu nodded, his smile radiant. "You have grown in wisdom and strength, Karna. Your journey is far from over, and the challenges that await you will test your resolve and character. But remember, you are not alone. The divine powers within you and the support of those who believe in you will guide you along the way."
With those final words, the ethereal realm faded away, and Karna found himself back in his room, his connection with Lord Vishnu severed.
But the warmth and reassurance lingered within him, reminding him of his purpose and the divine guidance that would always be with him.
Karna looked down at Little Krishna, his heart overflowing with gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Krishna, for granting me the opportunity to speak with Lord Vishnu."
Little Krishna smiled, his eyes sparkling with mischief and love. "You're welcome, Karna. It was my pleasure to facilitate that connection for you. Lord Vishnu is always willing to guide and support those who seek his wisdom."
Karna's gaze softened as he looked at Little Krishna. "You truly are a divine presence, Krishna. Your mischievousness conceals profound wisdom and love. I am blessed to have you as my Brother/Friend and guide."
Little Krishna giggled, his playful nature shining through. "And I am blessed to have you, Karna. So when will you leave to seek Guru Parshuram?"
Karna's expression turned thoughtful as he considered Little Krishna's question. He knew that the time to seek Guru Parshuram's guidance was drawing near, but he also wanted to make sure he was prepared for the journey ahead.
"Krishna, I believe it's important to make the necessary preparations and gather my belongings before I embark on this journey."
Karna replied. "I will leave in a few days, once everything is in order. But until then, I will continue to train and reflect on the lessons I've learned here in Vrindavan."
Little Krishna nodded understandingly, his eyes filled with a mixture of excitement and sadness. "I will miss having you by my side, Karna, but I know that seeking Guru Parshuram's guidance is crucial for your growth as a warrior. I will eagerly await your return, and in the meantime, I'll be here, supporting you in spirit."
Karna smiled warmly at Little Krishna's words, touched by his unwavering support. "Thank you, Krishna. Your presence and encouragement mean the world to me. I promise that I will return, and when I do, I will be stronger and wiser."
The moonlight streamed through the window, casting a gentle glow on the peaceful scene. Karna lay on his bed, his arm wrapped protectively around Little Krishna, who slept soundly against his chest.
'Who would have known I could sleep with LORD KRISHNA in my arms If I from my previous life knew that this could happen after my death, Then He would have killed himself sooner.'
As he drifted off to sleep, Karna held Little Krishna closer, cherishing the bond they shared. He felt grateful for the love and support that surrounded him, both from his dear friend Balram and from the divine presence of Krishna.