A few hours later,
Abhimanyu returned back with his soldiers. The soldiers were carrying the Horn of the Golden deer. After arriving, Abhimanyu approached the nearest villager and asked about the whereabouts of Raj and Ram.
After getting his answer, Abhimanyu walked towards the chamber where Ram and Raj were resting.
Their complexions looked a lot better than how they looked like the last time Abhimanyu saw them.
Seeing that both of them looked fine, Abhimanyu sat down on a nearby chair and said,
"Seems like you two have escaped the worst but, what about your sons? Where are they?"
Ram and Raj suddenly bowed towards Abhimanyu and said in unison.
"Thank you for helping us!"
Abhimanyu was slightly taken aback by the sudden bow but smiled before speaking,
"Don't worry. Rest properly if you really are thankful to me."
Despite his words, Ram and Raj still continued bowing for several seconds to express their gratitude. Finally, after they stopped bowing, Ram spoke.
"We can't stretch how thankful we are towards you. As for Tejas and Vidur, both of them are resting in the next chamber. Although they still have to recover from many injuries, they are fine now."
After hearing that, Abhimanyu felt at peace.
That's when Raj asked Abhimanyu.
"So... how did you guys exactly catch the guardian? I know that with your power, it is an easy job. But I saw that only your soldiers chased the Golden Deer."
Abhimanyu relaxed his back before saying,
"It's a long story But The gist of the situation is...
**Abhimanyu's POV**
When I first entered the territory of the Guardian beast with my soldiers, it sent me a telepathic message. I led my soldiers and followed the way that it showed me. After several minutes of walking, we arrived before it.
I told the deer what my purpose to visit it was. After hearing that all I needed was a small piece of its horn, It smiled and said,
"I know that you are more powerful than me. If you wanted to, you could kill me . But you don't seem to be planning to do that. Quite Frankly, it's interesting to see someone like you. I can easily give you my horn, but as the Guardian of this forest, I have my pride. And, that pride isn't something I could throw away easily."
I looked at the Golden deer and was left speechless for a moment. After a few seconds had gone by, I sighed before asking.
"So... You want to fight me?"
I slowly began to reach for my Khukuri but the Deer aggressively shouted,
"No! No! Seems like you misunderstood. I don't want to fight you. In fact, I will gladly let you capture."
I looked at the golden deer for a second before sitting at a tree bark as I thought to myself,
'This is going to take a while'
The deer looked at me sitting down and continued,
"But I have a condition!! you can capture me but you can't use any weapons, tools, or your powers. Nothing else except your bare hands. That goes for your soldiers too. They also can't use anything."
Hearing this proposal, I would be lying If I said I wasn't slightly interested.
"Ok, I agree. None of us can use anything except our hands."
The deer smiled after listening to my reply and said,
"On the other hand, I can use my power to stop you from coming near me. You also have a time limit. You have to catch me before midnight."
After the guardian said that, it started running away without even letting me reply. The soldiers looked at me, bewildered, and asked what to do.
"Just do what it said."
After hearing my words, the soldiers started chasing the deer while I also followed them.
I was wondering what the golden deer was trying to accomplish but it all became clear soon enough. The Golden deer was running in a certain direction.
And when we followed it, the sight of Gurumapa holding Tejas and Vidur in its hands greeted our eyes. I immediately figured out what was happening. I had my soldiers follow the Golden deer and stayed to fight Gurumapa. And the rest is history."
*Back to the chamber*
Raj and Ram listened to the explanation of Abhimanyu and nodded their heads. After Abhimanyu was finished talking, Ram asked a question.
"So... I guess the guardian beast deliberately led you to us?"
Abhimanyu also nodded his head before answering.
"That is most definitely the case. The deer knew It couldn't defeat Gurumapa. So, it used me, someone, who can kill Gurumapa easily to do the job."
Ram was satisfied with the explanation but Raj suddenly spoke,
"Then aren't you angry at the guardian beast for using you?"
"No, not really. I know that that deer was only trying to save your lives. If it wasn't for my intervention, you guys would've died."
Raj gave an 'Ohhh, I understand' sort of expression and the room fell into an awkward silence.
"Well, the past is already gone... Rightnow I need a small favour from you guys."
Abhimanyu broke the silence and said,
"My soldiers are exhausted after the chase. Even though the deer willingly gave us its horn, they had to run continuously for hours. So, can you please provide us with accommodation for today's night? We intend on leaving tomorrow."
"Of course, this is the least we can do to express our gratitude."
Ram had one of his advisors manage everything for the soldiers. And, just like that... The night passed as the next day started with a warm sunrise.
Abhimanyu and his soldiers prepared themselves and were ready to head out towards Gorakh city. Before leaving, Abhimanyu approached Raj and Ram.
"Why don't you guys send your kids to the warrior/hunter exam happening in 2 years?"
Raj and Ram were taken back by the sudden suggestion but on second thought, felt like it made perfect sense.
Tejas and Vidur had both the courage and the skills of a warrior. If they trained hard enough, they would become stronger as warriors/hunters.
Raj and Ram paused for a moment.
"The world is a big place. Letting them stay here may become a burden to their growth."
As this thought went through the heads of the two fathers, Abhimanyu spoke again.
"Of course, It's up to you guys to decide the future of your sons. I am just giving you advice as a fellow warrior."
After leaving these words, Abhimanyu greeted before leaving the village with his soldiers.
As the silhouette of the soldiers disappeared in the distance, Raj and Ram were left thinking about Abhimanyu's words.
In the end, they decided to talk with their family members.
*Five days later*
Time flew and the villagers had started to slowly recover from the loss of the event.
Tejas and Vidur also woke up from their sleep.
Raj, Ram, Ganga, Rita, and Anju rushed to the chamber. Soon, a happy family reunion took place. After the sweet moments passed, Tejas and Vidur suddenly apologized.
"We are sorry for worrying everyone. We are also sorry for following you guys on our own accord. We stupidly risked not only our but the lives of others."
Before anyone could respond, the two continued
"We also have a request for our fathers. Please teach us everything you know about weapons and all that stuff. We... we don't want to be this weak. We don't want to struggle like that. We want to become strong. Please!!"
Raj and Ram looked at the faces of their sons and suddenly a proud sensation filled their hearts. They smiled and replied.
"Okay, we will teach both of you. Everything about a battle and all things related to weapons. We will teach you different techniques and skills, but you boys promise us something.
Promise us you won't ever be this reckless. Promise us that you won't give up. And promise us that you will take care of yourselves from now on."
Tejas and Vidur agreed on their fathers' decision.
After this, the two were forced to stay in the bed until they recovered completely.
*A few weeks later*
Days passed slowly in a bed but Tejas and Vidur finally recovered completely.
Now, their body was in top-notch condition. Ganga and Rita wanted their sons to rest for a few more days, but Tejas and Vidur started training right away.
Raj taught the boys about attack techniques related to Khukuri and other types of swords. He also taught them how to make traps for different types of enemies.
Meanwhile, Ram taught them all about archery techniques and also taught them how to make different tipped arrows by using the things from their surroundings.
He also taught them how to shoot two arrows at the same time with great accuracy. Along with rapid shooting, he also taught them to make baits and tree traps.
Raj and Ram taught them the basics of hand-to-hand combat techniques. And the two boys trained their bodies rigorously every day.
Raj and Ram also taught them basic survival skills. They also taught them how to deal with strong beasts that reside in the wilderness.
Both Tejas and Vidur poured their bodies and minds into training. They didn't bother to engage themselves in other useless things and focused solely on training.
Just like that, time flew...
*2 years later*
On a fine sunny day, two boys could be seen sitting on a field. They were none other than Tejas and Vidur.
Both of them have turned 17 and now look like fine young men.
Over the course of the past two years, the two had learned various things during their harsh training.
Tejas had short hair and was around 5'3 ft(160 cm) tall. His growth had stagnated for the past few months but he definitely wasn't some random midget.
He had defined abs and muscles all. His physique, except the height part, looked and was extremely impressive. Tejas was several times stronger than an average boy of his age.
In the past two years, Tejas had a change in personality. He didn't have a bad temper like He used to have... but he is still someone you can easily provoke. Especially if you mention his height-
On the other hand,
Vidur was completely the opposite of Tejas. He had long black hair tied neatly behind his head with a small piece of cloth.
He stood at the height of 6 Ft(180 cm), enough to tower over our poor Tejas. Vidur had a toned body with abs he became more handsome in these 2 years with his fair skin.
He was weaker compared to Tejas in terms of raw strength, stamina, but very good in agility, and compared to an ordinary 17-year-old, Vidur can be called extraordinary.
Opposite to Tejas, Vidur had developed a calm and observing type of personality just like his father.
Both of them had a bow beside them, signifying their choice of becoming an Archer.
At first, Raj wasn't fond of the idea that his son was becoming Archer. But since this was his son's decision, he said nothing.
As Tejas and Vidur were casually chatting at the side of the field, Raj and Ram approached the two and said,
"Listen kids, we have taught you guys the things that we have learned and accumulated over years.
You two are still inexperienced newbies. The world is a vast place. There are people and creatures far beyond your imagination. Go and venture this world. You guys have to find a Guru (master) who will guide you to the path of becoming stronger. We have taught you everything we had. Now... it's your turn. Go and learn new things. Grow stronger and come back after you have explored the world enough and accumulated enough experience."
Tejas and Vidur were taken back at this sudden order. But they soon realized what this was all about. Vidur nodded his head to signify he understood but Tejas asked,
"Father, is this about us going to the Capital?"
Raj nodded before saying,
"Yes! since you two have already decided on becoming stronger, staying in this village is going to be nothing but a burden on you guys."
Tejas made an 'O' shape from his lips to signify that he understood before asking,
"But how did the great warrior Abhimanyu become so powerful that he could cut Gurumapa's hand with such ease?"
Raj looked at Tejas and replied,
"In this world, there are many powerful Rakshasa's and other living things that you don't know. We also don't know how he became so powerful but you will find out when you explore more. You might also get the answers from a Guru."
Tejas was a bit disappointed at the answer but didn't show it on his face. At the same time, Vidur asked his father,
"Father, what is the difference between a hunter and a warrior?"
"Simple."
Ram responded.
"Warriors mostly engage in battles or warfare. Most warriors work for the king, queen, or for themselves. A warrior can work under anyone or be a nameless loner too. One thing all warriors have in common is their goal to become stronger. There are even instances of some powerful warriors establishing their own small kingdoms and armies. Meanwhile, some just wander endlessly to fight powerful individuals.
Meanwhile, hunters mostly live in villages. They do contract jobs when they want. To become a hunter, you need knowledge about all types of Rakshasa and other creatures along with their strengths and weaknesses while taking on a job. Hunters mostly deal with beast-type Rakshasa because those Rakshasa frequently attack villages or towns. Hunters also deal with wild creatures along with rouge warriors/hunters for money and fame. Similar to warriors, great hunters also make their name all around the world and build their own kingdoms or empire in order to gain fame.
To become a warrior or hunter, you have to get a badge. A badge is a sign of dignity and status. It denotes how powerful you are.
After getting a badge, you have to earn the trust of the kingdom or make a name for yourself. There are some warriors or hunters who become rouge. They take assassination contracts. Because of their unorthodox ways, most kingdoms put a big bounty on their head.
Of course, for some exceptional people, bounties mean nothing. If you are a powerful individual with a great title, nobody will mess with you, not even kings. Strength makes the noblest being bow in our world."
After hearing the long explanation from Ram, Tejas seemed a bit lost and only got the gist of it all but Vidur understood everything perfectly.
Seeing that both of them had understood his words enough, Ram said to the boys,
"Both of you have grown up. From now on, you have to make your own decisions in life. It's your life. It's all up to you both."
Raj also interjected and said,
"Yes, all we can do is tell you where you can start with your journey. And, that starting point is the hunter and warrior exam in Gurukul."
Hearing the name, Tejas excitedly said,
"Ohh, you told us about it yesterday. Every two years, an exam is commenced in Gurukul so that one can become a hunter/warrior by the kingdom. Every two years, exams are conducted in different kingdoms in order to establish good political relationships and to minimize war/battle.
This year, the exams are being conducted in our Gorakh kingdom. People from other 9 kingdom will also come, the exams will commence in 30 days."
Seeing that Tejas knew about it, Raj smiled and said,
"It's good that you boys remember about it. You two need to get there in time. If you don't reach there in time, you will have to wait for another 2 years again.
Go and participate. Let's see how much you boys have learned and improved your skills during these past 2 years of training!"
Tejas and Vidur felt a strange excitement racing in their hearts.
Two years of hard training. Words weren't enough to describe how much they wanted to see their progress. Plus, they wanted to meet more people of their age.
People who weren't weak but strong people of their age.
Tejas and Vidur had talked with their family the night before. To become strong, they needed to become independent first.
Ganga didn't want her second son, Tejas to leave just like her first son, Ajit.
Rita also didn't want Vidur to leave, But the husbands persuaded their wives to let their sons go.
Just like that, days flew by and Tejas and Vidur prepared themselves for their journeys.
5 days later, the two boys left the front yard of their house after packing their bags.
Before they could leave, the family members wanted to do Puja (ritual) to Lord Shiva for their safe journey and success in their exams.
Everyone was gathered around the lingam (T/N: a votary object that symbolizes the god Shiva and is revered as an emblem of generative power)
After finishing the Puja, everyone shared prasad (T/N: an offering made to a god, notes at end).
Raj and Ram began talking with their sons after finishing eating.
Raj said,
"In your journey, there will be times when you face situations you have never experienced. So, now you have to understand the outside world and people."
Ram walked towards Vidur and put his hands on Vidur's shoulders while looking at Vidur's eyes,
"Vidur, the world is harsh. It's full of all sorts of people. The dangers outside aren't just the strong Rakshasa or wild beasts But there is another huge danger."
At that time, Raj also bent down to make eye contact with Tejas and said,
"Yes, this danger might not seem much at first but it's going to harm you at the worst times."
Tejas and Vidur gulped and asked their fathers in unison,
"W-What is it?"
Seeing the nervousness in the eyes of their sons, Raj and Ram slightly laughed before saying,
"Humans. No, people to be exact. Outside is a world of complete strangers. You will find people with both good and bad intentions. Never trust a stranger easily. You need to become capable of judging them by yourself.
You will meet many thugs and bandits. You will also have a fair share of encounters with scammers and con artists. Make sure you don't trust others easily. But don't treat everyone like a criminal. Judge if they are a friend or a foe before anything. But always beware. If you guys come across evil people on your journey. In that situation, you need to either run or fight. But, someday, you have to stain your hands with blood.
Your every action has a consequence. Don't harm the innocent but don't try and become a saint too. People are of all types. Some deserve to be saved while some deserve death. You guys need to understand the value of life. Both of you will understand how this world works. This world has its own set of rules."
With the long speech finished, Ram handed both of them two new bows and quivers that were made with the best materials they could find.
Raj also gave them his two best horses from the stable.
Tejas and Vidur bowed down to their fathers' and mothers' legs and touched their feet to get their blessings before leaving for the journey.
The parents also put their hands on their heads and wished them best wishes.
The two jumped on their respective horse and went through the village collecting the blessings of the villagers.
Tejas and Vidur best friends Subahu, Durvig, Anudhar also came to meet before both Tejas and Vidur leave the village, all of them get injury's 2 days ago while fighting 2 bear brothers after resting and using ayurveda medicine for few days they are fine, but they want to meet and see their friend.
Subahu said,
"Thanks to both of you guys many people's and animals are safe you captured both of those beasts bears and transfer them in another forest where they can't harm people.
but next time I will not lose to others beasts."
Anudhar said,
"Tejas and Vidur don't forget 3 of us we will meet again soon and when we meet again I will be stronger than now, but when we meet again tell me about your adventures, the capital and people tell us about everything."
Vidur's sister Anju gave Vidur and Tejas 'Rudraksha' (T/N: notes at end) as a good luck charm wishing them a safe journey.
"Big brother Vidur please look after Tejas he is naive, hot headed, short temper, and he is short guy he will make some trouble for you and for him so please look after him." Anju said to Vidur.
"I will Anju I will take care him and his problems if he makes in our journey so don't be worried."
Vidur replied to Anju.
"Hey both of you, when did I create problem for me and for others, you know how strong I am now, I already fought with a bear and knocked him down with only my hands and if they call me short they will feel my fist first.
I only speak truth about people when I meet them if you think that is bad then it's their fault not mine." Tejas replied while making angry face.
All three of them start arguing but finally Vidur ended the conversation.
Tejas's mother, Ganga gave them Ayurveda for their upcoming journey along with 2 special Ayurveda that can replenish their energy and heal their wounds in minutes.
Vidur's mother, Rita packed enough food to last them for some days.
both mothers talked to their son,
"Please boys look after each other like you always do and come back from your journey home. We will be waiting for you.
Finally, With the collective wishes of everyone and the presents from their family,
Tejas and Vidur waved their hands as the horses galloped through the land. Tears welled up in the eyes of Ganga and Rita as their husbands consoled them.
So, as the cool breeze passed on a fine sunny day, Tejas and Vidur left their dear village to achieve their goal of becoming the strongest.
Now, what awaits them is a treacherous journey filled with hardships, camaraderie, and who knows what else...
All we can be sure of is their great adventure has just begun.
_______________________
Translator's notes...
Prasad: Prasad is an offering of food you make to God after you finish puja (ritual). After offering the food to a God, People eat that food as It's now considered a divine gift from God.
Rudrakhsa: It is a bead also called 'Stone fruit'. Rudrakshas are considered as a charm of good luck and something that protects the wearer from negative energy. It's used in Hinduism, and Buddhism,