"Mother, What are you doing here? and Who is he?"
A young timid feminine voice came from the entrance of the chamber. Karna turned his attention toward the source of the voice and saw a young girl standing there, her eyes filled with curiosity and a hint of shyness.
Queen Gandhari smiled warmly and gestured to the young girl. "This is Karna, The one I used to talk to when you and all your brothers were babies, my dear. He is also the one who removed my blindfold when he was just a baby too."
Karna watched as the young girl approached with cautious curiosity. Her presence added a new dimension to the reunion, and he couldn't help but be struck by the resemblance between her and Queen Gandhari.
"Hello," Karna greeted the young girl with a warm smile. "I'm Karna. It's a pleasure to meet you."
What Karna didn't know was that when he smiled his divinity of sun activated on its own to others his presence felt warm smoothing rays of sunlight, and this effect was particularly pronounced in moments of genuine warmth and kindness, like the one he was sharing with Dushala.
The young girl, Dushala, felt a sudden rush of warmth and comfort wash over her as Karna's smile radiated its gentle, soothing rays. It was as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders, and her shyness began to melt away.
"Hello, Karna," Dushala replied with a genuine smile, her earlier timidity giving way to a sense of ease. "It's a pleasure to meet you too."
Karna's presence seemed to have a calming effect on Dushala, and she found herself drawn to his friendly demeanor. The stories her mother had shared about him had piqued her curiosity, and now that she was face to face with him, she couldn't help but be intrigued.
Queen Gandhari also felt the warmth that emanated from Karna's presence, and she watched the interaction between her daughter and Karna with a contented smile. It was clear to her that Karna's visit was having a positive impact on Dushala, and she couldn't be happier.
But Dushala's eyes widened in fear as her gaze fell upon the massive white lion, Shaurya, sitting regally beside the bed. The sudden presence of such a magnificent and powerful creature understandably startled her.
Karna noticed Dushala's fear and immediately took action to reassure her. He gently placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and spoke with a calm and soothing tone. "Dushala, there's no need to be afraid. This is Shaurya, my familiar. and a dear friend."
Dushala's fear began to subside as Karna's soothing presence and explanation took effect. She looked at Shaurya with a mixture of curiosity and awe. The idea of a celestial lion as a guardian intrigued her, and she couldn't help but be drawn to the majestic creature.
Queen Gandhari, who had been observing the situation, also chimed in to alleviate her daughter's fears. "Shaurya is a gentle and loyal guardian, Dushala. You have nothing to fear in his presence."
Slowly but surely, Dushala's fear transformed into curiosity and fascination. She extended a tentative hand, allowing Shaurya to approach and sniff it in a friendly manner.
The celestial lion seemed to sense her innocence and responded with a gentle nuzzle, which brought a delighted smile to Dushala's face.
Dushala's smile grew as she continued to interact with Shaurya. The initial fear that had gripped her had transformed into a sense of wonder and joy. She stroked the celestial lion's mane, marveling at the softness and the warmth of his fur.
Karna and Queen Gandhari watched the scene with warm smiles. It was a heartwarming moment, one that showcased the bond between humans and celestial beings in this world of divinities and legends.
***
At night Karna left his chambers for a night walk in palace gardens because he couldn't sleep after tossing and turning for some time.
The palace gardens of Hastinapur were a tranquil oasis amidst the grandeur and bustling life of the royal city. As Karna walked along the stone paths, he couldn't help but appreciate the beauty of the night. The moon hung low in the sky, casting a gentle glow on the lush foliage and colorful blooms.
The night air was cool and refreshing, carrying with it the scent of blooming flowers. Karna's footsteps were quiet against the stone, and the only sounds that reached his ears were the distant chirping of crickets and the occasional rustle of leaves.
Seeing a pond reflecting the moon's serene light, Karna decided to sit by its edge, allowing the tranquility of the night to wash over him. He knew that amidst the diplomatic negotiations and political complexities of his visit, these moments of solitude were precious.
But as someone has a problem with him relaxing, "Why Angraj can't sleep?"
Karna turned his head to see Vidur, the mahamantri of Hastinapur, approaching him in the moonlight. Vidur's presence wasn't entirely unexpected, given his role as a key advisor in the royal court, but the timing of his appearance was curious.
Karna regarded Vidur with a calm expression. "Mahamantri Vidur, the stillness of the night often provides a welcome respite from the day's affairs. It allows one to reflect and find clarity in their thoughts."
Vidur's response was measured, his gaze analytical. "Indeed, Angraj Karna. It is in these quiet moments that one can ponder their actions and the consequences they bring."
Karna nodded in agreement, acknowledging the wisdom in Vidur's words. It was clear that Vidur had something on his mind, and Karna was willing to listen.
"Is there something specific you wish to discuss, Mahamantri Vidur?" Karna inquired, his tone respectful but inquisitive.
"That axe which you summoned against me so many ago, Can I know its name once again because even after searching every single scroll and ancient tomb about divine weapons, especially axes there is no axe like yours in the records."
Karna considered Vidur's question about the divine axe he had summoned during their previous encounter.
After a moment of contemplation, Karna spoke in a measured tone. "Mahamantri Vidur, the divine axe I summoned is known as the 'Divine Axe-Rhitta' Its origin is connected to the sun itself but make no mistake to associate it with Surya dev. Because they are unrelated."
Karna's response seemed to satisfy Vidur's curiosity, though a hint of disappointment flickered in the mahamantri's eyes. It was clear that Vidur had hoped for more information or perhaps a connection to the divine weapon that had piqued his interest.
"Thank you for sharing that information, Angraj Karna," Vidur replied, his tone polite but tinged with a sense of curiosity. "The Divine Axe-Rhitta is indeed a remarkable weapon, and its origins in connection to the sun are intriguing."
Karna sensed that there was more to Vidur's inquiry than simple curiosity about the Divine Axe-Rhitta. There was an underlying motive, one that Vidur was not revealing. Nevertheless, Karna remained composed and continued the conversation.
"You're welcome, Mahamantri Vidur," Karna said, his voice steady. "The Divine Axe-Rhitta is a symbol of strength and protection, and it has served me well in my duties as the ruler of Anga."
Vidur nodded, seemingly satisfied with Karna's response. However, he didn't let the matter rest entirely. "Angraj Karna, I have heard tales of your prowess in battle and the feats you have accomplished with the Divine Axe-Rhitta. It is a weapon of great power and significance."
Karna inclined his head in acknowledgment. "It is a weapon that I wield with great responsibility, Mahamantri Vidur. Its power is not to be taken lightly, and it is always used in the service of justice and protection."
Vidur's expression remained inscrutable, and he changed the subject, albeit subtly. "Your diplomatic mission here in Hastinapur has been quite eventful, Angraj Karna. I trust that the discussions have been fruitful?"
Karna understood that Vidur was attempting to gauge the progress of the diplomatic negotiations. He chose his words carefully. "The discussions have been productive, and progress is being made in addressing the concerns and tensions between our kingdoms. It is my hope that we can find a peaceful resolution that benefits all parties involved."
Vidur nodded, his gaze lingering on Karna for a moment longer before he spoke again. "Your commitment to diplomacy and peace is commendable, Angraj Karna. In these troubled times, such qualities are valued."
Karna sensed that Vidur was making a subtle assessment of his character and intentions. It was a reminder that political intrigue and scrutiny were ever-present in the royal court.
Karna replied with a polite but guarded tone, "Thank you, Mahamantri Vidur. The well-being of my kingdom and its people is of paramount importance to me."
As their conversation drew to a close, Vidur offered a respectful nod and turned to leave. "I shall not keep you from your contemplation, Angraj Karna. May the night bring you the clarity you seek."
Karna watched as Vidur departed, his thoughts lingering on the mahamantri's inquiries and subtle probing. It was a reminder that trust in the world of politics was a fragile thing, and one had to tread carefully, even in the peaceful stillness of the night.
But it like when one leaves than god sends you another one to annoy you-
"So you are that famous 'Angraj Karna' who everyone are talking about? But where are my manners, My name is Kunti-"