After two months, Lord Parashurama and Maharishi Vashistha arrived in Hastinapur, leaving everyone in awe of the revered sage's presence. Bhishma, Drona, and Karna greeted their guru with utmost respect.

Lord Parashurama addressed Karna, pointing out that his policies were not being strictly followed.

"I am aware, Gurudeva. I have made every effort to change the perspectives of different kings, but they refuse to listen to me," Karna replied.

Lord Parashurama and Maharishi Vashistha then suggested that Karna embark on a Digvijaya yatra, liberating the people of other kingdoms. They advised him to conquer these kingdoms and have their kings sign the treaty of equality.

Karna nodded in agreement with their suggestions and began preparing for his Digvijaya yatra. Duryodhana, Dushasan, Ashwathama, Shon, Vikarna, and Yuyutsu also expressed their desire to accompany Karna on his journey.

After six months of preparations, they set off on their Digvijaya yatra.

The musketeers were highly successful in defeating Drupada in the western direction. Had Drupada signed the treaty of equality, they would not have conquered Panchal. However, driven by his ego, Drupada used harsh words against Karna, which not only hurt him but also fueled his anger. As a result, Drupada lost his empire to Karna.

Following this humiliation, Drupada silently signed the treaty of equality, liberating Panchal from all human atrocities.

Next, the musketeers embarked on their campaign in the northern regions of Āryāvrata. Karna managed to defeat Bhagdatta, the son of Narkasur. He then conquered the Himalayan regions, receiving a warm welcome from the people who hailed him as their liberator. The Himalayan inhabitants were finally free from slavery, and Bhagdatta was succeeded by his son after his brutal defeat to the hands of Karna.

Moving eastward, Karna defeated the Bangas, Kalingas, Mandikas, Karkarlandas, Avasiras, Yodhyas, and Ahishastras. In the land of Batsa-bhoomi, where monsters called Rakshasas resided, Karna eradicated them, granting freedom to the people. Subsequently, Karna continued his conquest, annihilating all Rakshasas in the east, including Kevali, Mrittika Vali, Mohana, Patrana, Tripura, and Konasa.

Karna united the entire East into a single kingdom, which was now referred to as Greater Anga. The people rejoiced at this monumental step, and Karna established new cities for his subjects.

The musketeers then headed south, where Karna single-handedly defeated Rukmi, Pandya, Nila, and other kings of the region. He vanquished Shishupal, his son, Yavana, Varvara, and many others. This part of Āryāvrata was now granted greater freedom, and Karna killed Kichak, liberating Matsya Desh from his tyranny.

Having achieved victory in all four directions, Karna effortlessly conquered the remaining regions, including Mlechecheas, Bhadras, Rohitakas, Agneyas, Malavas, Sasakasand, Yavanasunder, and many others. The people in this part of Āryāvrata were overjoyed, finally experiencing the freedom they had longed for. All the conquered kingdoms were granted independence, under the condition that the people would be free from any oppressive rule and have their rights protected. The kingdoms respected Karna's decision.

Karna refrained from attacking Dwarka and Indraprasth as the rulers of these kingdoms were known for their liberal governance.

News of Karna's triumph reached Hastinapur, eliciting various emotions from the people. Dhritarashtra and Gandhari were elated, filled with joy at the return of their sons and the victorious Karna. Bhishma and Vidur were delighted by Karna's success and the accomplishments of their grandchildren. They also kept a watchful eye on Shakuni.

Shakuni was disturbed by Karna's Digvijaya yatra. He disliked the popularity gained by his nephews. However, he found solace in discovering the book of dark magic. Though pleased with this newfound power, Shakuni bided his time for the opportune moment.

Madirakshi, Bhanumati, Amrita, Dushala, and Meenakshi were overjoyed at the return of their husbands from the digvijaya yatra. The entire palace was adorned with flowers, and the women danced and sang upon hearing the news of their husbands' return. They had prepared a variety of dishes to welcome their beloved husbands.

Madirakshi had given birth to Shatrujan and Vrishketu five years ago. The twins were now eager to reunite with their father, the apple of their mother's eye. Madirakshi held a special bond with the twins.

Vrishasena and Aditi, at the age of 14, had been under the tutelage of Maharishi Vashistha for their education. They also rejoiced upon hearing the news of their father's triumph. Lakshman and Lakshmana accompanied Vrishasena and Lakshmana, sent by Duryodhana for their education.

Durmasan, Vristhama, and Shon's twins remained in Hastinapur due to their young age. They, too, were elated by the return of their tatshree, kakashree, and fathers after a long time.

At Indraprastha, Yudhishthira and his brothers celebrated Karna's success. Many changes had taken place. Devika had given birth to Yudhishthira's second son, named Prativindhya. Hidimba had given birth to Bheem's second son, Sutsom. Additionally, Bheem had married Valandhra, the princess of Kashi. Arjuna, now a father of four sons from his wives, witnessed the expansion of his family. Nakul had married Karenumati and had a son named Satanik, while Sahadev's wife, Vijiya, was five months pregnant.

Kunti was overjoyed upon hearing about her eldest son's success. Although she longed to be with him, she could not bear the hatred Karna held towards her. Kunti deeply missed Madirakshi, Vrishasena, Vrishaketu, Shatrujana, and Aditi.

Finally, Karna returned to Hastinapur after five years, embraced by his immense popularity among the people. The citizens welcomed him with a profusion of flowers.

It had been five years since Karna last set foot in the palace. Upon his arrival, he was enthusiastically greeted by his twins. Karna smiled at Vrishaketu and Shatrujana and lifted them up in his arms. The twins showered their father with kisses, and Karna reciprocated the affection.

Vrishaketu wrapped his arms around Karna's neck and said, "Pitashree, I missed you."

"I want to play with you," Shatrujana chimed in.

"Okay, my kids, we will play a lot," Karna replied as he ascended the main gate's staircase.

Madirakshi performed the aarti for her husband and her brothers, her face beaming with happiness. She welcomed them all with an enormous smile.

The musketeers sought blessings from the elders, who wholeheartedly bestowed their blessings upon them. Karna also learned that Shakuni had discovered the book of dark magic.

Karna approached Shakuni and asked, "How are you, Gandhar Naresh or Mohini?"

"I am fine, Digvijaya Karna. I have found the book of dark magic," Shakuni replied, attempting to instill fear in Karna.

"I am aware, Gandhar Naresh. However, I hope you realize that your magic will have no effect on me or the protective barrier I have placed around the royal family of Hastinapur," Karna confidently stated.

"I know that, Suryaputra," Shakuni replied through gritted teeth.

"Good. Now, I shall take my leave," Karna declared, leaving the premises.

***

In the ethereal realm of Swarga Loka, where divine beings reside in tranquil harmony, the mellifluous voice of Deva Rishi Narad resonated, breaking the serene atmosphere.

"Narayan! Narayan! Pray, enlighten me, Maharaja Pandu, as to the thoughts that captivate your regal mind," Deva Rishi Narad inquired, his celestial presence exuding a sense of wisdom and otherworldly aura.

With a thoughtful expression etched upon his noble countenance, Maharaja Pandu, the esteemed ruler, spoke in a resonant tone, his voice echoing through the celestial realm like a melodious hymn.

"Ah, Naradji, as you are undoubtedly aware, Yudhishthira, the noble king who governs Indraprastha with unwavering independence, resides in my heart as a cherished hope. I yearn for him to ascend the grand throne as the esteemed emperor of Aryavart, just as I did in times bygone. Alas, I find myself contemplating the most befitting manner in which to impart this profound desire unto him," Pandu expounded, his words carrying the weight of a sovereign's longing.

With an assuring nod and a gentle smile that embodied boundless compassion, Narad Muni, the celestial sage, vowed to carry out his sacred duty.

"Fear not, O great Maharaja Pandu, for I shall embark upon this divine mission with utmost devotion. I shall embark upon a celestial voyage to the hallowed grounds of Indraprastha, swiftly conveying the sacred message that resides within your heart. Rest assured, the ethereal corridors of Indraprastha shall reverberate with the resounding echoes of your fervent wish," Narad Muni solemnly declared, the ethereal radiance of his celestial form shining with divine purpose. And so, with divine determination igniting his every step, Narad Muni departed from the celestial abode of Swarga Loka, setting forth on his sacred quest to fulfill Maharaja Pandu's noble yearning.

***

In the magnificent and resplendent city of Indraprastha, adorned with opulent architecture and vibrant colors, Lord Krishna graced the royal court in the company of the illustrious Pandavas and his beloved sister Subhadra. The atmosphere was charged with an aura of reverence and anticipation as the courtiers awaited the arrival of Deva Rishi Narad, who suddenly materialized before them.

"Narayan! Narayan! With utmost humility, I offer my profound respects to you, Shri Krishna," Narad Muni's melodious voice echoed through the grand hall, resonating with a divine aura.

"In return, I extend my respects to you, Narad Muni," came the harmonious response from the assembly, their voices blending harmoniously.

Bathed in the ethereal glow of his spiritual presence, Narad Muni exuded an otherworldly aura, casting a captivating spell on all those present. Devika, filled with profound devotion, seized the opportunity to express her heartfelt desire to serve the esteemed sage.

"Oh, Devika, your soulful request to serve me is a testament to the purity of your heart. I stand humbled by your devotion," Narad Muni acknowledged, his voice resonating with benevolence.

However, Narad Muni's purpose in gracing the court extended beyond accepting the devoted offering. With a sense of solemn duty, he unveiled the reason behind his divine visit, revealing that he bore a crucial message from the revered Maharaj Pandu to the righteous and virtuous Yudhishthira. The court listened in rapt attention as Narad Muni artfully narrated the profound conversation that had transpired between him and the departed Maharaj Pandu. And with the message delivered, Narad Muni gracefully departed, leaving behind a lingering sense of spiritual essence.

Energized by the weight of their father's aspirations, the noble Bhima rose to his full stature, his powerful presence commanding attention. Amidst the grandeur of the court, he spoke with resolute determination, "We, the Pandavas, shall wholeheartedly strive to fulfill the cherished wish of our revered Pitashree."

The air crackled with anticipation, and it was Lord Krishna, the embodiment of wisdom and foresight, who interjected with a measured tone. His voice resonated with a deep understanding of the challenges that lay ahead, cautioning them all, "However, my dear Bhrata Bhima, we must acknowledge that the path to achieving our Pitashree's wish will be fraught with obstacles and trials. The journey ahead is not one to be taken lightly."