One week had elapsed since Shakuni's departure from Hastinapur, and a multitude of changes had taken place. The other Kauravas had begun to acknowledge Karna as their brother, and he had become an integral part of the Hastinapur Rajya Sabha.

Karna made Duryodhana realize his mistake of neglecting Yuyutsu. "Yuyutsu was always alone. While you had the support of your father, mother, and uncle, Yuyutsu had no one, yet he remained loyal to you. Now is the time for you to apologize to him and enjoy his company," Karna advised. Duryodhana comprehended the gravity of the situation and immediately went to Yuyutsu's room to seek forgiveness.

Duryodhana wholeheartedly apologized to Yuyutsu and embraced him tightly. Yuyutsu, upon learning about Karna's influence, underwent a transformation. He embraced Karna and burst into tears, expressing gratitude for finally receiving the love of his brothers.

The Four Musketeers engaged in intense training sessions with one another. Karna honed Ashwathama's archery skills, teaching Dushasan new sword-fighting techniques, and enhancing Duryodhana's proficiency in mace combat as his endurance improved. Karna also instructed the Kauravas and Ashwathama in unarmed combat, ensuring they could defend themselves when weaponless.

Madirakshi found time to practice sword fighting with Dushasana. The Pandavas grew envious of Duryodhana's companionship, wondering why he had managed to forge such strong friendships.

Two weeks later, in the royal court of Hastinapur, Drona declared, "I desire my gurudakshina from my students." Arjuna, filled with pride, responded, "Gurudev, we are all prepared to offer you our gurudakshina. Ask anything of us." Dronacharya revealed that their gurudakshina was to defeat Drupada. All the Kuru princes readily agreed to the challenge.

"I shall also participate in this war against Drupada," Ashwathama stated, causing some concern for Dronacharya. However, he ultimately consented, wanting to gauge his son's capabilities among the Kuru princes.

Karna took charge of preparing the Kauravas and Ashwathama for the war. He devised a daily routine and practice chart for them. Duryodhana was overjoyed to have a friend who cared for his well-being.

***

Three days before the war, Duryodhana, Ashwathama, and Dushasan gathered at Karna's practice field for a meeting. Duryodhana inquired about the purpose of the meeting, to which Karna directly stated, "We shall fight the war alongside the Pandavas."

"Why, my friend?" Dushasana asked, astonished by Karna's words.

"Imagine the scenario if Drupada deploys the chakravyuhu and the commandar of Panchal. You would be outnumbered-107 against the Akashvani sena. Unity will grant you strength to face them," Karna explained the rationale behind the meeting. Ashwathama nodded in agreement, saying, "Mitra Karna speaks the truth."

Karna continued, "Another reason is this. Most of the Kauravas are trained in swords and axes. Only you and Yuyutsu possess expertise in wielding a mace. Dushasana and Vikarna excel in swordsmanship, while Ashwathama is the lone archer. It would be better if you unite with the Pandavas to confront Drupad."

Duryodhana, recognizing the truth in Karna's words, prepared himself for this alliance. They promptly made their way to Yudhishthira, who, after initial surprise, accepted their decision as their gurudakshina to their guru.

The elders of Hastinapur rejoiced upon hearing that the Pandavas and Kauravas had agreed to fight together in unity. Bhishma felt elated, seeing Karna fulfilling his responsibilities.

Madirakshi also frequented the Hastinapur palace, spending time with Dushala, Mata Gandhari, and Rajmata Kunti. Both mothers were delighted when they learned of the decision made by the Pandavas and Kauravas. Madirakshi took the opportunity to teach Dushala about various medicinal practices.

Vidur expressed his concern about the situation, stating, "Tatshree, Angaraj is meddling in the Kuru family matters."

"What has Karna done wrong? He has merely convinced Duryodhana to fight alongside the Pandavas, which is great news. You haven't witnessed the changes within this palace, Vidur, but I have. Since Karna entered the lives of the Kauravas, there have been no conflicts between them and the Pandavas. Karna has taught Duryodhana and his brothers the significance of meditation, bringing about a transformation in them. If Angaraj is interfering, let him. So remain silent and refrain from interfering with Karna's work," Bhishma responded, surprising Vidur with his words.

***

Two days before the war, Karna and Madirakshi bid farewell to their friends and brothers. Karna advised Duryodhana to maintain normalcy with the Pandavas, ignore any taunts directed at him, and keep his mind focused on giving gurudakshina to their guru. Duryodhana obediently absorbed Karna's advice.

"Thank you for your suggestions and for believing in me," Duryodhana expressed his gratitude, leading to a tight embrace between him and Karna.

Madirakshi handed Ashwathama a medical paste capable of instantly healing any wounds. She wished him well as they prepared for the upcoming tasks. Karna mentioned to his friends that he would be departing for Ang Rajya after the war. He had already commenced his duties concerning Ang Rajya and would be taking his friends with him. Having completed his responsibilities in Ayodhya, Karna mentioned that he would visit the city afterward.

At the borders of Panchal, the students of Mahaguru Drona arrived at their destination after a day and a half of travel. They promptly refreshed themselves and convened for a nighttime strategy discussion. Duryodhana proposed that Ashwathama and Arjuna assume leadership roles due to their expertise in breaking through enemy formations. Although taken aback, the Pandavas agreed.

Following dinner, they retired to their respective quarters. At the Pandavas' dwelling, Nakula raised a point, "Have you noticed the changes in Duryodhana, Jyeshta? Why is he treating us well?"

"Perhaps they are hatching a plan against us," Sahadeva responded, his expression filled with suspicion.

"It could be the influence of Angaraj on Duryodhana," Yudhishthira suggested while sharpening his spear.

"That sutputra is unrighteousness, just like his friend Duryodhana. Have you not noticed how he taunts our Gurudev and Pitamaha?" Bhima exclaimed.

Arjuna concurred with Bhima, adding, "He has disregarded societal norms and has become a threat to us. He will support Duryodhana in claiming the throne of Hastinapur."

"We cannot allow this to happen. We must ensure our Jyeshta Bhrata becomes the Yuvraj of Hastinapur," Bhima declared with anger.

"Enough of this nonsense, Arjuna and Bhima. We are here for our guru dakshina, and we must give it our utmost effort," Yudhishthira intervened, urging his brothers to remain focused. He further added, "Regarding Duryodhana, he also wishes to fulfill his guru dakshina for our Gurudev. He has expressed his desire not to fight us on this matter as it would diminish our strength. So clear your minds and engage in meditation to attain inner peace." The brothers obediently nodded and commenced their meditation practice.

On Duryodhana's side, the trio continued their training, honing their weapons' sharpness. Duryodhana, Ashwathama, and Dushasana practiced unarmed combat techniques taught by Karna. Afterward, they retired to rest.

Unbeknownst to them, a man dressed entirely in black observed their activities from a safe distance. It was Karna himself, who had completed his duties in Magadha and Kalinga and was on his way to Ayodhya. He wanted to be aware of every action undertaken by the Pandavas and Kauravas, so he had stationed his spies within their ranks. He commanded his spies, loyal to him, to gather all the information about the upcoming war. Satisfied with his arrangements, Karna proceeded toward Ayodhya.

***

The next day, all the students of Guru Drona readied themselves for the impending battle. They sought their guru's blessings and marched toward the battlefield. Upon reaching their destination, they encountered Drupada, accompanied by his army. Drupada ordered his forces to form a chakravyuha.

Anticipating this, Duryodhana had received prior warning from Karna about the unique attributes of the Panchal chakravyuha.

It was decided that Ashwathama and Arjuna would lead the group, followed by Duryodhana, Bhima, Yudhishthira, Vikarna, and Yuyutsu. Nakula and Sahadeva would lead the remaining Kauravas and engage the foot soldiers.

The Kauravas initiated a war cry and marched forward to confront the chakravyuha. Ashwathama and Arjuna carved a path for their group, unleashing a barrage of projectiles that transformed into a deluge of arrows. Nakula, Sahadeva, and the Kauravas engaged in fierce combat with the foot soldiers. Yudhishthira, Bhima, Duryodhana, Dushasana, Vikarna, and Yuyutsu clashed with the Panchal Maharathis and their Commander-in-Chief, Shikhandini.

Ashwathama and Arjuna reached the center of the chakravyuha and challenged Drupad himself. Arjuna engaged in a fierce duel with Drupada, while Ashwathama confronted the other Maharathis. Ashwathama easily defeated them and then headed toward Arjuna to provide assistance. On his way, he noticed one of the Maharathis preparing to launch a surprise attack on Arjuna. Reacting swiftly, Ashwathama ensnared him with a nagapasha. Eventually, Drupada and the remaining Maharathis were also captured.

After six long hours, the battle reached its conclusion. Drupada was brought before Dronacharya, who compelled him to kneel in front of their teacher. Dronacharya admonished Drupada, saying, "You insulted the knowledge of my father, and now, through that knowledge, my student has defeated you. Had you offered me some wealth that day, I would have gladly accepted it, but instead, you insulted me. I shall not take your kingdom because I am a Brahmin, and I have certain duties toward society." Dronacharya's eyes welled up with tears as he conveyed his sentiments.

Drupada realized his mistake and apologized to his old friend. They shared a heartfelt embrace and reminisced about their shared childhood.

After some time, Drupada returned to his palace, and Dronacharya, accompanied by his students, embarked on their journey back to Hastinapur. They halted at the Panchal borders.

Ashwathama distributed the medicinal paste to the Kauravas, who promptly applied it to their wounds. Within seconds, the paste took effect, and their injuries vanished. They freshened up and then retired for a much-needed rest.

Nakula and Sahadeva tended to the wounds of the Pandavas before joining them in sleep, all of them exhausted from the day's battles.

News of the victorious war reached Hastinapur, spreading joy among the people. Bhishma's face radiated happiness, delighted by the display of unity and sportsmanship from the Pandavas and Kauravas. Dhritarashtra and Vidur also expressed their satisfaction. Kunti and Gandhari offered prayers to Lord Shiva for the safety of their children.

Karna, through his network of spies, was the first to receive news about the Kuru princes. He was en route to Hastinapur, having completed his tasks in Ayodhya. He now enjoyed a well-deserved respite from his duties.

The following day, the Pandavas and Kauravas arrived on the outskirts of Hastinapur. Duryodhana decided to pass by Karna's house, and the Pandavas agreed, curious to learn more about Karna.

***

Karna, engrossed in his sitar playing, which he had learned from the Gandharva Raj Chitrasen, produced a mesmerizing and enchanting melody. Madirakshi, while tending to the plants, relished the music.

As the Pandavas and Kauravas approached Karna's residence, they were captivated by the captivating tune of the sitar. Initially, they assumed Madirakshi was the musician, but upon seeing her watering the plants, they wondered who was playing the sitar.

Madirakshi noticed Duryodhana and his brothers, hastening toward them to congratulate them on their victory. Curiosity piqued, Duryodhana inquired, "Who is playing the sitar in your house, Bhena?"

"Nath is playing the sitar," Madirakshi replied with a smile.

Duryodhana and his brothers were astounded. "Mitra Karna knows how to play the sitar?" Duryodhana asked, his eyes wide with amazement.

"Yes, he does. In fact, he possesses knowledge of various musical instruments and diverse art forms," Madirakshi responded with a beaming smile.

"May I meet Mitra?" Duryodhana asked, his face filled with joy.

"Your Mitra will not stop his music until the afternoon as he has secluded himself in his room. He will meet you at the palace, bhratha. You should return there, as the members of the palace are eagerly awaiting your arrival," Madirakshi advised before leaving for the palace.

Upon entering the city, the crowd erupted into chants of their names. Upon reaching the palace, Gandhari and Kunti performed the vijaya tilak, blessing their children. Bhishma and Vidur congratulated them and wished for their everlasting unity.

The princes then retired to their chambers to freshen up. In the Rajya Sabha, Ashwathama was appointed as the Minister of Finance and Arms for the Hastinapur kingdom.

The matter of selecting a Yuvraj, which had momentarily cast a serious atmosphere, was postponed by Bhishma. He declared that the issue would be revisited at the beginning of the following year, as he believed none of the Rajkumars were currently fit for the position. With this authoritative statement, the Sabha was adjourned.