The next day, Karna woke up early, feeling refreshed and determined. He knew that he had preparations to make before embarking on his journey to seek Guru Parshuram's guidance.
Karna went about his morning routine, taking a moment to meditate and centre himself. He reflected on the conversation he had with Lord Vishnu and the guidance he had received. The sense of purpose and clarity he felt strengthened his resolve to continue his path as a warrior and fulfil his destiny.
After finishing his morning rituals, Karna made his way to the kitchen, where he found his mother looking around the kitchen while thinking about what to make for breakfast.
Karna approached his mother with a warm smile. "Su Prabhat (Good morning), Mother. Let me help you with breakfast," he offered.
His mother turned to him with a loving expression, appreciating his presence and willingness to assist. "Su Prabhat (Good morning), Karna. That would be wonderful. How about we prepare a simple but nourishing meal to start the day?"
Karna nodded in agreement. "That sounds perfect, Mother. Let's see what ingredients we have and create something delicious."
Together, Karna and his mother gathered the necessary ingredients and began their culinary adventure. As they worked side by side, a sense of harmony filled the air, reflecting the strong bond between them.
Karna's mother taught him the family recipes, passing down her culinary wisdom to her son. Karna listened attentively, cherishing these moments and absorbing every detail with the utmost care.
As they cooked, their conversation flowed effortlessly, touching on various topics, from everyday life to Karna's upcoming journey. Karna's mother expressed her pride and confidence in him, reminding him of his inner strength and the values he held dear.
"I have no doubt, my dear son, that you will succeed in your endeavours," she said, her eyes filled with love and admiration. "You have always shown determination, resilience, and a compassionate heart. These qualities will guide you well on your path."
Karna's heart swelled with gratitude for his mother's unwavering support. Her words served as a constant reminder of his purpose and the responsibility he carried. He knew he couldn't let her or himself down.
Finally, their meal was ready—a delectable spread of freshly cooked food, infused with love and care. They set the table and called everyone in the house to enjoy the meal together.
After some time Karna said, "I'm going to seek a Guru's (Teacher) guidance and continue my training, I believe it's time for me to take the next step on my journey."
Radha Maa's (Mother) face turned from a happy-go-lucky smile into a panic while mumbling under her breath, "My baby is going to leave me, My baby is going to leave me..."
[Yandere Strikes Back~]
A chill ran down Karna's back, and Adhiratha started to back away trying to be as discreet as possible.
Karna looked at his mother with concern, noticing her sudden change in demeanour. He walked over to her, gently placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Mother, please don't worry," Karna reassured her, his voice filled with love and understanding. "I may be leaving for a while, but it doesn't mean I'm leaving you forever. I will always come back, and our bond will remain strong."
Radha Maa looked up at Karna, tears welling up in her eyes. "I know, my dear. It's just that the thought of you being away from me fills my heart with a mixture of pride and sadness. But I understand the importance of your journey, and I want you to pursue your dreams."
Karna hugged his mother tightly, feeling the warmth of her embrace. "Thank you, Mother. Your support means everything to me. I promise I will return, and when I do, I'll be a better version of myself."
Adhiratha, witnessing the emotional exchange, stepped forward, his expression filled with both pride and concern. "Karna, my son, I've always known that you are destined for greatness. Your skills, your dedication, and your noble heart make me proud. But remember to stay true to yourself and the values we have instilled in you."
Karna nodded, his determination shining through. "Father, I will never forget the lessons you and Mother have taught me. I will carry them with me on my journey and use them to guide my path."
Radha Maa sniffled, wiping away her tears. "Enough of the sentimental talk now. We should cherish this time we have together and celebrate your upcoming journey. Let's eat and enjoy this meal you both have prepared with so much love."
"What about us!!!" x3
Kali, Kamini and Brinda looked toward Karna with pleading eyes like, 'Take us with you.'
Karna looked at his friends with a mix of surprise and amusement. Their eager expressions tugged at his heart, and he realized how much he valued their friendship and companionship.
"Kali, Kamini, Brinda," Karna said, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Your presence has been a source of strength and joy for me. I appreciate your desire to accompany me on my journey, but this path I must tread alone."
The three friends looked momentarily crestfallen, but Karna continued, his voice filled with sincerity. "However, your support and friendship mean the world to me. Even though we may be physically apart, our bond remains unbreakable. You will always be in my heart, and I know that I can count on you, no matter the distance between us."
Kali, Kamini, and Brinda exchanged glances and nodded, understanding Karna's words. They knew that while they couldn't accompany him physically, their support and love would be a constant presence on his journey.
In the days that followed, Karna made the necessary preparations for his journey. He gathered his belongings just for show because more than half of his belongings were in the system's inventory.
He spent time with his family, cherishing every moment and strengthening the bonds that held them together. Karna also sought the guidance of his teachers and mentors, eager to learn from their wisdom before setting out on his new path.
As the day of departure approached, Karna's heart was filled with a mixture of excitement and nostalgia. He knew that the journey ahead would be challenging, but he also felt a deep sense of purpose and determination.
On the day of his departure, Karna stood before his family with Shaurya by his side. Wearing the outfit of Tsurumaru Kuninaga, Kusanagi sword hanging from his waist.
He looked resolute and ready to face whatever lay ahead. His parents stood by his side, their expressions a mix of pride and sadness.
"Remember, Karna," Adhiratha said, his voice filled with paternal love. "Your true strength lies not only in your skills as a warrior but also in your compassion and integrity. Stay true to yourself, and you will overcome any obstacle that comes your way."
Radha Maa stepped forward, her eyes shining with tears. "My dear son, always remember that you carry our love and blessings with you. We believe in you, and we know you will make us proud."
Karna nodded, his eyes filled with determination. "Thank you, Father, Mother. Your words and support mean the world to me. I will carry your teachings and love in my heart as I embark on this journey."
With a final embrace and heartfelt goodbyes, Karna set off on his journey, accompanied by Shaurya, his loyal companion. As he walked away from his home, he couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions—excitement for the adventures that awaited him and a tinge of sadness for leaving his loved ones behind.
"Vritra"
As Karna whispered the name, A man with pitch-black hair that reached his shoulder and a pair of sharp deep purple eyes appeared in front of Karna on his knees.
"You called master?"
"Yes, Vritra," Karna said, his voice filled with determination. "I am embarking on a journey to seek Guru Parshuram's guidance, But I want you to remain here and protect my family."
Vritra nodded, his gaze unwavering. "As you wish, Master. I shall remain here and protect your family with my life. They will be safe under my watch."
Karna expressed his gratitude, placing a hand on Vritra's shoulder. "Thank you, my loyal companion. I trust in your abilities, and I know that my family will be in good hands. Keep them safe until my return."
Vritra bowed his head respectfully. "You have my word, Master. I will protect them with all my strength and ensure their well-being."
With a final glance at his family and a silent promise in his heart, Karna turned and continued his journey, Shaurya faithfully walking by his side. He knew that Vritra's presence would bring comfort and security to his loved ones during his absence.
As Karna disappeared into the horizon, his spirit aflame with purpose, he embraced the unknown with open arms, ready to face the challenges and seize the opportunities that awaited him. His journey had only just begun, and the world would bear witness to the rise of a warrior destined for greatness.
But suddenly Karna came to a halt and he started looking in all directions and asked.
"Where to go now?"