Mahabharat - The Changed Fate

Chapter 38: Subhadra's Plot Against Avika

The palace of Hastinapur was abuzz with excitement following the recent events surrounding Karna's victory and the growing affection between him and Avika. Yet, within the shimmering walls, shadows loomed larger than ever, especially in the heart of Subhadra. Jealousy twisted her thoughts as she watched the pair flourish in each other's company, her admiration for Karna morphing into a desperate need to eliminate Avika from the picture.

The Seed of Malice

Subhadra sat in her chamber, her hands gripping the intricately woven fabric of her skirt. "Why must she always be by his side?" she murmured, the bitterness evident in her tone. She had admired Karna from afar, but now, as she witnessed his affection for Avika, her envy ignited into a burning rage.

"I need to act," she decided, a dark determination settling within her. "If I can't have him, then she cannot either."

Recalling a conversation she had overheard about mercenaries—men who would sell their loyalty for gold—Subhadra's mind raced with possibilities. "If they could frighten her... or worse," she thought, her heart racing at the prospect. "Karna would come to me, looking for solace."

The Recruitment

That evening, Subhadra summoned Kavi, her trusted servant. "You must help me find mercenaries," she ordered, her voice steady and unwavering.

Kavi's eyes widened, a mix of surprise and intrigue crossing his face. "What is your plan, my lady?"

"I want them to deal with Avika," Subhadra replied, her tone dripping with malice. "It must be discreet—a simple accident while she is out alone."

"An accident, you say? And how do you plan to ensure it appears as such?" Kavi inquired, skepticism tinged with curiosity.

Subhadra waved her hand dismissively, her mind racing. "Leave that to me. Just make sure they are skilled and eager for gold."

Kavi nodded, his excitement piqued. "I will arrange it. Just tell me how much you are willing to pay."

"Everything I can spare," she replied, a fierce resolve shining in her eyes. "This must be done swiftly."

The Darkness Grows

Days passed, and Subhadra became increasingly consumed by her scheme. She secretly met with Kavi and the mercenaries, outlining the plan with meticulous detail. Each evening, she felt a rush of adrenaline, a thrill in plotting Avika's downfall.

Meanwhile, Avika remained blissfully unaware of the storm brewing around her. The palace, with its grand halls and lush gardens, became a sanctuary for her and Karna, as their bond deepened with every shared moment.

But for Subhadra, the happiness of others was like poison. Each time she saw Karna and Avika together, laughter ringing through the halls, her heart twisted with envy. "If only they knew," she muttered, "the lengths I would go to put an end to this charade."

The Perfect Opportunity

Finally, the day came when the mercenaries were ready to strike. Subhadra had carefully orchestrated everything, choosing the timing to ensure Avika would be vulnerable. "Tomorrow evening, she often walks by the river alone," Kavi confirmed, smirking. "It will be the perfect opportunity."

Subhadra felt a rush of exhilaration mixed with fear. "Make sure they understand: it must look like an accident," she emphasized, her voice low and urgent. "If anyone suspects foul play, it could ruin everything."

"Consider it done," Kavi assured her, eager to see the outcome of her twisted scheme.

The Waiting Game

As the sun dipped below the horizon the following day, casting a golden hue across the palace, Subhadra's heart raced with anticipation. She watched from her window, the tension in her chest tightening as she imagined Avika wandering down to the river.

"What if it doesn't go as planned?" a voice in her mind cautioned, but she shook it away. "This is what must happen."

The evening arrived, and as Avika prepared for her walk, Subhadra felt a surge of satisfaction. She envisioned the moment of triumph when Karna would turn to her for comfort and companionship, seeking solace from the very chaos she had orchestrated.

The Ambush

Avika stepped out into the night, the cool breeze brushing against her skin. Unbeknownst to her, danger lurked just beyond the shadows of the trees lining the riverbank. As she walked, the soft sounds of nature surrounded her, but the quiet was soon broken by the harsh whispers of the mercenaries lying in wait.

"Now," one of them hissed, and the others nodded, muscles tensing in anticipation.

The moment Avika was far enough from the palace, they pounced, surrounding her in a swift and calculated move. "What do you want?" she gasped, fear coursing through her veins.

"Silence!" one of them commanded, reaching for her.

Avika fought back, her instincts kicking in. She had trained with Karna and Arjuna; she refused to be an easy target. But before she could fully react, a strong arm grabbed her from behind, pulling her into the darkness.

Hey Guys !

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~Author Rishi 💕