Dharmyudh : The Rewritten Destiny

78. The Rescue

The afternoon sun filtered through the trees near Karn's temporary hut, its golden rays glinting off the sharpened arrows he worked on. Seated beside a flat rock, Karn held an arrow steady, carefully grinding its tip to perfection against the rough surface. His focused movements were deliberate, the task providing him a moment of quiet reflection.

The sound of approaching footsteps drew his attention, and he looked up to see Maharaj Vikramaditya and Maharani Madhavi walking toward him, their faces alight with gratitude. Setting the arrow aside, Karn rose to his feet, his expression brightening as he approached them.

Karn :- Maharaj Vikramaditya. It is good to see you again.

He said warmly, extending his arms to embrace the king. They clasped each other tightly in a brotherly hug before stepping back.

Vikramaditya :- It is good to see you as well, Kunti putra Karn.

He replied, his voice filled with admiration. Maharani Madhavi joined her husband, bowing her head respectfully.

Madhavi :- Vijaydhari, words cannot express our gratitude for what you have done.

Vikramaditya continued, his tone earnest.

Vikramaditya :- You rid our kingdom of the terrible scourge that was Mrighasur. You saved countless lives, and for that, we are forever indebted to you.

Karn shook his head humbly, his demeanor calm and modest.

Karn :- What I did was for the good of the people. It is the responsibility of a warrior to protect those in need. If my actions brought peace to your kingdom, then I am happy.

Vikramaditya smiled, his eyes shining with genuine respect.

Vikramaditya :- Know this, Karn-if Indraprasth ever requires the aid of Asmaka, we will come to your side with open arms and unwavering loyalty.

Karn inclined his head.

Karn :- I thank you for that promise, Vikramaditya. And in return, I promise that our friendship will remain steadfast for as long as we draw breath.

The king gestured to a servant, who stepped forward with a long, beautifully crafted bow wrapped in silk. Unwrapping it with care, Vikramaditya presented the bow to Karn. Its polished wood gleamed, and intricate engravings of divine symbols ran along its length.

Vikramaditya :- This bow, is a gift from Asmaka, crafted by our finest artisans. It is strong enough to withstand even the fiercest of battles and can unleash divine astras with precision. May it serve you well in your future endeavors.

Karn accepted the bow with a smile, his fingers tracing the intricate designs.

Karn :- This is truly a masterpiece. I am honored to receive such a gift.

Madhavi stepped forward with several quivers of arrows, each beautifully adorned.

Madhavi :- These arrows are my gift to you. Each quiver holds something unique. Among them is a special set of arrows carrying fire powder, which will explode on contact. May these aid you in your battles.

Karn nodded in appreciation, taking the quivers with care.

Karn :- Your generosity humbles me. I will cherish these gifts.

Gesturing toward a shaded area near the hut, Karn invited the royal couple to sit.

Karn :- Please, take a seat. You must be tired after your journey.

As they settled on wooden stools, Karn poured water into clay cups and offered them sweets he had prepared earlier. The three of them sat together, their conversation flowing easily as they spoke of peace, alliances, and the future.