Mahabharat - The Changed Fate

Chapter 32 : Shakuni's Plot to Control Karna

The atmosphere in Hastinapur's royal court buzzed with the excitement that Karna's victory had generated. However, not all were equally pleased. Shakuni, the ever-scheming maternal uncle of Duryodhana, stood in the shadows of the great hall, watching everything unfold. His mind was always calculating, always two steps ahead of everyone else. And now, as he observed Karna basking in his newly earned glory, Shakuni knew that this was an opportunity he couldn't afford to let slip away.

Karna's prowess in the arena had garnered respect from every corner of the kingdom, and his public recognition alongside Avika had solidified his position even further. The bond between Karna and Avika was powerful, and Bhishma's endorsement of their love made it a union that commanded respect from all quarters. However, in Shakuni's eyes, that same bond could be leveraged for something more—something far more strategic. If he could bring Karna under his influence, the Kauravas would gain a loyal and powerful ally, one who could be used to secure their path to the throne.

But Shakuni knew that merely appealing to Karna's sense of loyalty wouldn't be enough. Karna was too principled to be swayed by empty promises of power. No, Shakuni needed something more cunning, a plan that would tie Karna to the Kauravas not just through friendship, but through unbreakable familial bonds. And that's when the idea struck him—Avika.

As the court began to disperse after Bhishma's grand announcement, Shakuni quietly made his way toward Duryodhana, who was still deep in conversation with Karna. From a distance, he observed how Duryodhana's admiration for Karna had blossomed into a full-fledged respect. That respect, Shakuni knew, could be harnessed. He needed to plant the seeds of a new idea in Duryodhana's mind.

Approaching the two men, Shakuni's face lit up with his usual crafty smile. "Ah, my dear Duryodhana," he said, clapping a hand on his nephew's shoulder. "What a day it has been! Our Karna here has won the hearts of Hastinapur with his bravery and skill."

Karna, ever humble, nodded respectfully. "The blessings of the elders and the support of friends like you made this possible, Gandhar Raj"

Shakuni waved his hand dismissively, the serpentine gleam in his eyes concealed by his easy grin. "Oh, Karna, you are far too modest. But such modesty is rare in a man as great as you. You deserve every bit of praise you've received today."

Duryodhana smiled proudly at Karna. "Shakuni Mama is right, Karna. You've proven yourself to be more than just a warrior. You are an asset to Hastinapur, and more importantly, to me."

Shakuni, sensing the moment was right, leaned in slightly. "Indeed, my dear nephew. And that is why we must ensure that Karna's loyalty to you—and to the Kauravas—is as unshakeable as the foundations of Hastinapur itself."

Duryodhana's brow furrowed slightly, confused by Shakuni's cryptic words. "What do you mean, Mama?"

Shakuni's smile deepened. "It's simple, Duryodhana. Karna's bond with us is already strong, but it can be made stronger still. Imagine, if you were not just his friend and ally, but his family. Think of what it would mean if Avika were to marry into the Kuru dynasty. It would bind Karna to us in a way that no friendship alone could."

The words hung in the air for a moment, and Duryodhana's expression shifted from confusion to intrigue. The idea had clearly taken root in his mind, but there was hesitation. Duryodhana glanced at Karna, who remained silent, unaware of the conversation brewing between his friend and Shakuni.

"But..." Duryodhana hesitated, glancing at Avika, who was speaking to some of the royal women nearby. "Avika and Karna are already in love. Bhishma himself endorsed their bond. How could I ask something like that of Karna?"