Karna's Realization [Old Version]

11. Drupad's Rout

One week had elapsed since Shakuni's departure from Hastinapur, and a multitude of changes had taken place. The other Kauravas had begun to acknowledge Karna as their brother, and he had become an integral part of the Hastinapur Rajya Sabha.

Karna made Duryodhana realize his mistake of neglecting Yuyutsu. "Yuyutsu was always alone. While you had the support of your father, mother, and uncle, Yuyutsu had no one, yet he remained loyal to you. Now is the time for you to apologize to him and enjoy his company," Karna advised. Duryodhana comprehended the gravity of the situation and immediately went to Yuyutsu's room to seek forgiveness.

Duryodhana wholeheartedly apologized to Yuyutsu and embraced him tightly. Yuyutsu, upon learning about Karna's influence, underwent a transformation. He embraced Karna and burst into tears, expressing gratitude for finally receiving the love of his brothers.

The Four Musketeers engaged in intense training sessions with one another. Karna honed Ashwathama's archery skills, teaching Dushasan new sword-fighting techniques, and enhancing Duryodhana's proficiency in mace combat as his endurance improved. Karna also instructed the Kauravas and Ashwathama in unarmed combat, ensuring they could defend themselves when weaponless.

Madirakshi found time to practice sword fighting with Dushasana. The Pandavas grew envious of Duryodhana's companionship, wondering why he had managed to forge such strong friendships.

Two weeks later, in the royal court of Hastinapur, Drona declared, "I desire my gurudakshina from my students." Arjuna, filled with pride, responded, "Gurudev, we are all prepared to offer you our gurudakshina. Ask anything of us." Dronacharya revealed that their gurudakshina was to defeat Drupada. All the Kuru princes readily agreed to the challenge.

"I shall also participate in this war against Drupada," Ashwathama stated, causing some concern for Dronacharya. However, he ultimately consented, wanting to gauge his son's capabilities among the Kuru princes.

Karna took charge of preparing the Kauravas and Ashwathama for the war. He devised a daily routine and practice chart for them. Duryodhana was overjoyed to have a friend who cared for his well-being.

***

Three days before the war, Duryodhana, Ashwathama, and Dushasan gathered at Karna's practice field for a meeting. Duryodhana inquired about the purpose of the meeting, to which Karna directly stated, "We shall fight the war alongside the Pandavas."

"Why, my friend?" Dushasana asked, astonished by Karna's words.

"Imagine the scenario if Drupada deploys the chakravyuhu and the commandar of Panchal. You would be outnumbered-107 against the Akashvani sena. Unity will grant you strength to face them," Karna explained the rationale behind the meeting. Ashwathama nodded in agreement, saying, "Mitra Karna speaks the truth."