"So they want to discuss further in person by inviting me to Hastinapur huh."
"Yes, Your Majesty," Karna's advisor confirmed, "King Dhritarashtra has extended an invitation for you to visit Hastinapur in person to engage in diplomatic discussions. It seems they wish to clarify their concerns and establish a more direct line of communication."
Karna nodded thoughtfully, considering the implications of this invitation. A personal visit to Hastinapur would carry both opportunities and risks, especially given the delicate political situation in the region.
"Very well," Karna said, his voice measured, "I will accept King Dhritarashtra's invitation. We must address their concerns and maintain open channels of communication. Please convey my acceptance and inform them that I will make the journey to Hastinapur at the earliest convenience."
"Artemis, I wanted to ask you something."
[Yes, What do you want to know, Karna?]
"If I can let others enter the Tower of Trials but I want only for it to be like only loyal ones can enter it, Is that possible?"
Karna's query about the Tower of Trials intrigued Artemis. She considered his question carefully before responding.
[Yes, Karna, it is possible to restrict access to the Tower of Trials based on certain criteria, such as loyalty or specific qualifications. The tower's enchantments and security protocols can be adjusted to only allow entry to those who meet the designated requirements. However, you must decide the exact criteria and qualifications you wish to enforce.]
"Great with this, Soldiers of the army will benefit greatly while we can even weed out the spies and traitors," Karna said with a determined expression. "I want to ensure that only those who are truly loyal and committed to the kingdom and its people have access to the Tower of Trials."
[Your concern for the kingdom's security and the well-being of its people is commendable, Karna. Restricting access to the Tower of Trials based on loyalty and commitment is a wise choice. It will serve as both a training ground for the deserving and a measure of trustworthiness. The rewards after completing trials will also help to encourage them to strive for excellence and loyalty.]
With that Karna went towards the city square to place the Tower of Trials for the people to access easily.
'Oh! Make it so Lucifer also couldn't access it.'
[Did it already~]
Karna reached the city square, where he intended to place the Tower of Trials. The square was bustling with activity as citizens went about their daily routines. It was a central location where people from all walks of life gathered.
Everyone gathered around after seeing Karna, their beloved warrior-king, who took something out of thin air and placed it on the large empty space.
But the thing that happened next blew their mind away because a magnificent tower suddenly appeared before their eyes. It was a towering structure, gleaming with a faint golden hue, and it radiated an aura of mystique and power.
The people of Champa City, who had never seen anything quite like it, gasped in awe and wonder at the sight of the Tower of Trials. Murmurs and whispers filled the square as they tried to comprehend the sudden appearance of this enigmatic structure.
Karna stepped forward, addressing the gathered crowd with a voice that carried authority and reassurance. "People of Anga, I present to you the Tower of Trials. This magnificent structure shall serve as a place of training and growth for our warriors, a testament to our commitment to strength and unity."
The crowd's initial surprise gave way to enthusiastic cheers and applause. The Tower of Trials symbolized a new era of advancement and opportunity for the people of Champa City, and they welcomed it with open hearts.
"But," Karna continued, his tone becoming more serious, "access to the Tower of Trials will not be granted lightly. It will be a privilege earned by those who prove their loyalty and commitment to the kingdom and its people."
With that, Karna outlined the criteria and qualifications that would be required for individuals to gain entry to the Tower of Trials. Loyalty, dedication, and service to the kingdom were the key factors that would determine access.
The crowd listened attentively, understanding the importance of these criteria. They knew that the Tower of Trials was not just a place for personal growth but a symbol of their collective strength and unity.
As Karna concluded his address, he looked out at the sea of faces before him, filled with determination and hope. The Tower of Trials stood as a testament to his commitment to the well-being and security of Champa City and its people.
With the tower now accessible to those who met the criteria, Karna knew that it would become a focal point for training, growth, and the forging of bonds among the warriors of Anga.
Meanwhile, Lucifer Morningstar, who had been observing from the shadows, watched with a curious expression approaching the tower, he examined it with a discerning gaze. The Tower of Trials held an air of mystique and power that piqued his interest.
Lucifer's presence had not gone unnoticed by Karna. He had ensured that the tower's enchantments included restrictions that would prevent those of uncertain or malevolent intentions from accessing it. As a result, Lucifer found himself unable to enter the Tower of Trials.
A frown made its way to Lucifer's face as he attempted to approach the Tower of Trials, only to be met with an invisible barrier that prevented him from getting closer. It was a clear indication that his access was restricted.
Karna, who had been keeping a watchful eye on Lucifer, approached him with a calm and composed demeanour. "Lucifer Morningstar," he said, his voice carrying a firm tone, "the Tower of Trials is a place meant for those who have demonstrated their loyalty and commitment to our kingdom. Access to it is restricted to such individuals."
Lucifer raised an eyebrow, his curiosity unabated. "Ah, I see. Loyalty and commitment, you say? A fascinating concept."
Karna's gaze remained unwavering as he addressed Lucifer. "Indeed, it is. Our primary concern is the safety and prosperity of the kingdom and its people. We must ensure that those who enter the tower share in that commitment."
Lucifer, though denied access to the tower, seemed more intrigued than frustrated. He regarded Karna with a thoughtful expression. "You are a leader who takes the security of his kingdom seriously, Karna. I can respect that."
Karna nodded, acknowledging Lucifer's words. "Thank you, Lucifer. I trust that you will understand our need for caution in these matters."
With that, Karna turned his attention back to the excited crowd that had gathered around the Tower of Trials. It was a symbol of progress and unity for Champa City, and he was determined to see it benefit the kingdom and its loyal warriors.
[Next Day]
Karna was standing before the chariot he got from Suryadev through one year-long penance. The chariot was a magnificent creation, unlike any other.
Its wheels gleamed like molten gold, and its frame was adorned with intricate engravings of celestial symbols. It radiated a palpable aura of power, a testament to its divine origins.
As Karna examined the chariot, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude to Suryadev, the sun god, who had granted him this remarkable gift.
Karna climbed onto the chariot, feeling the divine energy that coursed through it. He held the reins firmly, and the chariot responded with a gentle rumble, as if eager to embark on the journey.
"Let us depart for Hastinapur," Karna said, and with a flick of the reins, the chariot began to levitate above the ground. It was a sight to behold, a chariot suspended in mid-air, its golden aura shining brightly. The people of Champa City who had gathered to witness Karna's departure marveled at the display of divine power.
ROAR
A white lion with strange markings flew towards Karna on magnificent wings, landing gracefully beside the levitating chariot.
"Where have you been these days Shaurya?" Karna asked the celestial lion, his voice filled with warmth and familiarity.
The celestial lion, Shaurya, let out a rumbling purr as it nuzzled Karna affectionately. "I was visiting Guru Parshuram and assisting him in some tasks, Karna."
Shaurya replied. "But I am here now, ready to accompany you on your journey."
Karna smiled, patting the lion's mane. "Your presence is always welcome, Shaurya. Let us make our way to Hastinapur and ensure that this diplomatic mission proceeds smoothly."
With a determined expression, Karna guided the levitating chariot, accompanied by the celestial lion, as they soared through the skies towards the distant city of Hastinapur. The people of Champa City watched in awe as their warrior-king embarked on this important journey, their hopes and prayers going with him.
As Karna and Shaurya disappeared into the horizon, the Tower of Trials stood tall in the city square, a symbol of strength and unity, and a reminder of the unwavering commitment of their king to protect and uplift the kingdom of Anga.