Chapter 5

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The previous chapter was a random day in karn's training. 

Author's POV:

The morning sun cast long shadows across the training ground as Karn completed his final set of target practice. Each arrow found its mark, a testament to the months of rigorous training he had endured under the tutelage of the legendary Parashuram.

A sense of accomplishment washed over him, tinged with a bitter-sweetness. Today marked his last day of training at the ashram. He had learned more from Gurudev Parashuram than just archery – he had learned discipline, focus, and the importance of unwavering dedication.

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, Parashuram called Karn over. He found his Gurudev seated beneath the shade of a sprawling banyan tree, a serene expression on his face. Karn settled himself opposite Parashuram, a respectful distance maintained.

"You have learned well, Batsa," Parashuram began, his voice a low rumble. "Your skill with the bow is unmatched. You have become a true archer."

Karn bowed his head in gratitude. "It is all thanks to your teachings, Gurudev. I am forever indebted to you."

Parashuram studied him for a moment, a faint smile playing on his lips. "There's one final lesson I wish to share before you depart," he began. "Archery is more than physical prowess. It's about the mind and the heart of the archer."

Karn leaned forward, eager to absorb every word. This final lesson held immense importance, a culmination of his training.

Karn's POV: 

A comfortable silence settled between us. The wind rustled the leaves, creating a symphony of soft whispers. "You have surpassed many," Parashuram finally said, his voice thoughtful. "Perhaps even some who came before you."

My breath hitched. I knew of Parashuram's other students, legendary warriors whose names echoed through history – Bhishm, Dronacharya. To be considered their equal was an honor beyond measure.

"But remember, Karn," Parashuram continued, his gaze steady, "true mastery lies not just in skill, but in how you choose to use it. An archer's heart must be guided by integrity and purpose."

I looked up, meeting Parashuram's gaze. The weight of the lesson settled upon me. The path ahead wouldn't be easy, but I was ready. I could do this. I have only been preparing for this my whole life. Not only that, but I can finally take down Arjun. The knowledge and skills I have acquired would be my compass, guiding me on my journey.

I bowed deeply, a silent promise forming in my heart. I would use my skills for good, my actions reflecting the lessons learned from the greatest warrior the aryavart knows. The journey was about to begin, and I, fueled by my newfound abilities and a heart guided by Parashuram's teachings, was ready to face the challenges that lay ahead.


Author's POV:

The afternoon sun beat down on Karn's back as he emerged from the dense forest, a heavy load of logs balanced precariously on his shoulder. Sweat beaded on his forehead, but a sense of accomplishment warmed him from within. He had gathered enough wood to keep the ashram fire burning for days.

Reaching the clearing, he spotted Parashuram near the chopping block, a familiar axe held in his hand. Karn quickened his pace, eager to help.

Just then, a loud crack echoed through the air. Karn watched in surprise as Parashuram swung the axe with practiced ease, cleaving a thick log in half with a single blow. The other half tumbled onto the chopping block with a thud.

Concern furrowed Karn's brow. He approached Parashuram, the logs on his shoulder momentarily forgotten. "Gurudev," he began, "perhaps I can help you with that? It wouldn't be wise for someone of your stature to be straining yourself with such tasks."

A booming laughter filled the area and Parashuram walked away from the logs and said," What do you think, batsa? That your guru dev is tired." He started laughing again in disbelief," I might be old, but I still have the strength to defeat ten insane elephants all in one go. " 

"No, my lord," Karn replied quickly, bowing slightly. "I did not mean to suggest such a thing. I only meant that you have me as your willing student, and these tasks are but a small way for me to serve you." Then Parashuram's face fell a little trying to hide the sadness in his voice he replied "Just one more day. That is all I get. From tomorrow, you will be gone who will do my tasks then, batsa?", he paused to collect his thoughts and said" your training is complete, and you will go back to your own home tomorrow." Karn grew sad at the relegation and said to Parashuram "As long as I am around let me serve you this is my last chance to attend to you guru dev, please don't rob me of it.". Hearing this, Parashuram laughed heartily and asked karn to go rest while he sleeps under the tree. Karn overcome with a need to serve his guru dev tells him, "Oh guru dev why would you sleep on this hard ground, please come and sleep with your head in my lap". After Parashuram fell asleep, Karn starts fanning him with his uttariya. While fanning his guru dev Karn noticed a scorpion coming his way.


Author's note:-

Pls do not mind if I am unable to post next Wednesday, I have exams from day after tomorrow and it will finish next Friday.    

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