Dharmyudh : The Rewritten Destiny

11. Parshuram's Curse

In the dim, ethereal light of early dawn, a thin veil of fog draped itself delicately over the forest area, creating an enchanting yet mysterious ambiance. The air was crisp and cool, carrying with it the scent of damp earth and pine. As the soft hues of morning began to merge with the world, Karn made his way to the temple of Lord Shiva, which stood solemnly near the village, enveloped in a timeless aura. The temple, with its weathered stone walls and intricate carvings, seemed to glow subtly in the muted light, as if whispering secrets of the past.

Stepping inside the sanctified space, Karn felt a profound sense of peace envelop him. The silence was punctuated only by the gentle rustle of leaves outside and the distant call of a waking bird. With reverence in his heart, he carried out his daily rituals, meticulously cleaning the temple's sacred surroundings. The rhythmic sound of his broom on the stone floor echoed softly through the structure. Once the cleaning was complete, he proceeded to perform his puja with devoted attention, chanting ancient mantras that resonated with spiritual energy. He lovingly poured milk over the Sivling, watching as it cascaded down smoothly, purifying the sacred symbol of Lord Shiva.

As Karn prepared to leave the serene confines of the temple, his mind filled with tranquility and purpose, a Brahmin, clad in traditional attire and exuding an aura of wisdom and peace, entered the sacred space. Respecting the Brahmin's spiritual stature, Karn bowed deeply before him and touched his feet, a gesture of deep respect and humility.

The Brahmin, his eyes filled with warmth and gratitude, looked at Karn with appreciation and said,

Brahmin :- Stay blessed and strong, son. Thank you immensely for everything you have done. We shudder to think what our situation would have been if the rains hadn't come when they did.

Karn smiled gently, humility etched across his features, and shook his head softly, responding,

Karn :- There's no need to thank me, revered one. I merely did what I felt was right. As a warrior, it is my dharm, my duty, to fight for the right cause and protect those in need. It is by the grace of the divine that the rains blessed our land.

The Brahmin took a deep breath as he pulled out a worn yet sturdy bag of coins from his waist. The bag jingled softly with the promise of gratitude and hope. His eyes twinkled with a sense of fulfillment as he gently handed it to Karn, his fingertips lingering on the pouch as if transferring the weight of the village's gratitude through the touch.

Brahmin :- Son, this is a small token from all of us in the village. Though it may seem meager compared to the great deeds you have accomplished for us, it is all we could muster together. Each coin carries the blessings and appreciation of everyone whose lives you've touched.

He said with a voice that held both sincerity and deep respect. Karn felt a profound warmth spread within him. He joined his hands in respectful salutation, bowing slightly, his heart swelling with the overwhelming gratitude that emanated from each familiar face around him.
He spoke with humble conviction, his voice steady and firm.

Karn :- I am truly sorry, Brahmin Dev, but I cannot accept this gift. I didn’t act with the expectation of a reward. Everything I did was guided by my Gurudev's teachings. My actions were simply a reflection of the path of dharma he has shown me. It would only be right for you to offer this to him as a tribute.

The Brahmin opened his mouth to protest, the words forming out of concern and insistence. He extended the pouch once more, his arms slightly quivering with earnestness as he implored,

Brahmin :- But son, this is a small recognition of your extraordinary courage and selflessness...

Karn, with a gentle but firm gesture, caught the Brahmin's hand, holding it with a grip that was both gentle and unyielding, guiding him to withdraw. His eyes gleamed with genuine care and wisdom beyond his years.