Raghukul: Mahabharat

Chapter 18: WAR

As the dawn of battle approached, the camp of Ayodhya was a hive of activity. Soldiers prepared their weapons, sharpened their blades, and steeled their hearts for the war that loomed just two days away. Karn, his son Ram, and the divine Krishna moved purposefully towards a tent set between their army and the enemy's. This tent was to be the meeting place for the leaders of both sides to discuss the rules of engagement for the impending war.

Inside the tent, they were met by the Pandavas, Duryodhan, Shakuni, Dushasan, Bhishma, Drona, and Ashwatthama. The air was thick with tension as the leaders took their seats, the fate of Aryavarta hanging in the balance.

Duryodhan, his voice dripping with arrogance, began, "We propose a rule that women should not be allowed near the battlefield."

Karn's eyes blazed with defiance as he retorted, "Why, are you afraid that your women are weak? Our women can protect themselves. We do not accept this rule."

The room fell silent for a moment, the tension palpable. Bhishma, the grandsire of the Kuru dynasty, spoke with a voice of authority, "Let us put forth a rule that the battle will begin at sunrise and end at sunset."

There was a murmur of agreement, and all parties nodded their assent. Ram, standing tall and resolute, added, "There should be an option for any warrior to quit the battle at the start. But if they choose to fight, they must do so until death, a tie, or until the victor shows mercy."

Once again, everyone agreed. Krishna, his eyes filled with wisdom and foreknowledge, proposed, "If any side breaks any rule, then all rules except for the start and end times will be void. Rest assured, I will not raise my weapon even after that."

The leaders exchanged glances, and with a collective nod, the rules were set. The meeting ended, and each side returned to their camps, the final preparations for war beginning in earnest.

Day Before the Battle: A Family United

As the last day before the war dawned, Karn, Ram, and Lavanya gathered in a tent with Draupadi, Subhadra, Devika, Krishna, Drupad, and Dhrishtadyumna. The atmosphere was heavy with anticipation and the weight of what lay ahead.

Lavanya, her face stern and determined, shared the intelligence gathered by her spy network. "The Kauravas and Pandavas have amassed 20 Akshauhini sena. They plan to launch a multi-pronged attack on our flanks and rear."

Krishna, ever the strategist, nodded thoughtfully. "We must remain vigilant and adaptive. Their numbers are greater, but our resolve and strategy will be our strength."

Draupadi, her eyes filled with a fierce determination, spoke up. "We must ensure that our warriors are ready for anything. Our training and discipline will be key."

Subhadra, always the voice of calm and reason, added, "We must also ensure the safety and morale of our troops. A strong heart will carry a warrior through the darkest of battles."

Devika, quiet yet resolute, looked at Karn. "We are ready to fight and die for Ayodhya. Our cause is just, and our hearts are strong."

Karn, feeling the weight of his responsibility, looked around at his family and allies. "We fight for our home, our people, and our honor. We will not falter."

Krishna placed a reassuring hand on Karn's shoulder. "You are not alone in this, my friend. We are with you, and we will emerge victorious."

As the night wore on, the group discussed strategies and contingencies, their minds sharp and focused. Ram, the eldest and strongest among his siblings, was steadfast in his role as Senapati. He spoke with a confidence that inspired everyone around him.