[Third Person's POV]
"Ask anything you want, my child. Well, except immortality, as it is against the cosmic laws. But other than that, anything: weapons, powers, even me as your servant for a time."
The boy's mind raced with possibilities. The weight of Mahadev's words hung in the air, each option carrying its own significance and potential consequences. His admiration for Meghnad, and his desire to understand and perhaps change his fate, all coalesced into a singular determination.
"I... I don't know what to choose," The boy admitted, feeling the pressure of such an immense decision.
"That is a problem, I have a solution of. How about spinning a Roulette Wheel, and let fate decide what boon you shall be granted?" Mahadev suggested, his voice carrying a hint of amusement and wisdom.
The boy looked at Mahadev, struck by the simplicity and yet profound nature of the suggestion. "A Roulette Wheel?" he echoed, his mind racing with possibilities.
"Yes, just like those in the fan-fiction novels you used to read in your spare time," Mahadev continued, his gaze gentle yet penetrating. "Fate has a way of guiding us, even in the most unexpected ways."
The boy nodded slowly, feeling a sense of clarity settling over him. The idea of leaving such a momentous decision to fate appealed to him as if it would align his destiny with Meghnad's in a profound way.
"Okay, Mahadev," the boy said with determination, his voice steadier now. "I'll trust in fate. Let the Roulette Wheel decide."
Mahadev smiled warmly, nodding in approval. With a wave of his hand, a mystical Roulette Wheel materialized in the air before them. It glowed softly, adorned with symbols and choices that shimmered with cosmic energy.
"Spin it, my child," Mahadev encouraged, his voice resonating with encouragement. "Let the Wheel of Fate guide you."
Taking a deep breath, the boy stepped forward and gave the Roulette Wheel a firm spin. It whirled with a mesmerizing hum, the symbols blurring into a kaleidoscope of possibilities. As it gradually slowed down, the boy held his breath, his heart pounding with anticipation.
Click. Click. Click.
The Wheel came to a gentle stop, a single symbol aligning perfectly in front of the boy. Mahadev's eyes widened in surprise, a faint smile playing on his lips.
"Well, my child," Mahadev said, his voice tinged with amusement. "It seems fate has chosen for you."
The boy's eyes widened in astonishment as he read the symbol before him: "Black Dragon Bloodline." It shimmered with an otherworldly glow, pulsating with latent power. Mahadev's expression mirrored a mix of intrigue and approval, his gaze fixed on the boy with a knowing look.
"A dragon's bloodline," Mahadev mused, his voice carrying a weight of ancient wisdom. "A rare and formidable gift indeed. With this boon, you shall inherit the strength and essence of the Black Dragon, known for its resilience, cunning, and mastery over darkness."
The boy's mind raced with possibilities. The idea of possessing such a lineage filled him with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Dragons were legendary beings, revered for their power and mystique. To inherit their bloodline meant he would be forever changed.
"But what does it mean practically?" the boy asked, his voice tinged with curiosity. "What abilities or powers will I gain?"
Mahadev's smile widened, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Ah, that is for you to discover, my child. The Black Dragon's bloodline will reveal its secrets to you in due time. But know this: it will empower you in ways that align with the essence of the dragon itself. Embrace it, and you shall find strength in darkness and wisdom in adversity."
The boy nodded slowly, a mixture of determination and reverence settling over him. The weight of his choice and the magnitude of the boon he had received began to sink in. This was his chance to not only understand Meghnad's fate but to forge his own path in a world shaped by myth and destiny.
"Thank you, Mahadev," the boy said sincerely, his voice filled with gratitude. "I will honor this gift and use it wisely."
Mahadev inclined his head, his presence radiating with a profound sense of serenity. "Remember, my child, destiny is not written in stone. Your choices will shape the future, for yourself and for those whose lives you touch."
"It's time for you to go, my child," Mahadev said gently, his voice echoing with a blend of reassurance and solemnity. "Your journey awaits."
"Ahem... I have one last question, Mahadev," the boy said with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. Mahadev nodded encouragingly, his expression serene yet attentive.
"Who is more powerful Meghnad or Karna?"
"Hahahahaha," Mahadev chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with ancient wisdom. "My child, the question of who is more powerful between Meghnad and Karna is not one easily answered. Each possesses unique strengths and qualities that define their greatness."
The boy listened intently, his curiosity piqued by Mahadev's response. "But... is there a definitive answer?"
Mahadev's expression turned thoughtful as he considered the question. "To answer that, we must delve into the essence of power itself. Karna, with his divine armor (Kavach) and earrings (Kundal) bestowed upon him by Surya, possessed unparalleled protection and strength. His skill with the bow and valor in battle were legendary."
The boy nodded, absorbing Mahadev's words with fascination. "And Meghnad?"
"Ah, Meghnad," Mahadev continued, a hint of admiration in his voice. "Also known as Indrajit, he was blessed with divine weapons and unparalleled mastery over magic. His feats in battle and his devotion to his father, Ravana, earned him the title of the Conqueror of Indra. His prowess was not only in physical combat but also in the mystic arts."
The boy's imagination sparked with images of grand battles and mythical encounters between these legendary figures. "So, if they were to face each other in a duel..." he began, eager to hear Mahadev's insight.
"It would be a clash of titans," Mahadev replied, his voice resonating with the weight of centuries-old wisdom. "Karna's resilience and strategic acumen against Meghnad's magical prowess and unwavering determination. Such a battle would transcend mere physical strength and test the limits of their divine blessings."
The boy nodded thoughtfully, envisioning the intensity of such a confrontation. "Who do you think would prevail, Mahadev?"
Mahadev smiled gently, his eyes gleaming with a knowing twinkle. "In the realm of gods and mortals, victories are not always measured by strength alone. Fate, circumstance, and the choices made in the heat of battle often determine the outcome. Both Karna and Meghnad were destined for greatness, each fulfilling their roles with honor and valor."
The boy pondered Mahadev's words, realizing that the true essence of their power lay not just in their abilities but in how they wielded them. "Thank you, Mahadev," he said earnestly, feeling a deeper understanding of the complexities within the tales he so admired.
"You have asked insightful questions, my child," Mahadev replied warmly. "Continue to seek knowledge and wisdom on your journey. It is in the pursuit of understanding that one finds true enlightenment."
With a nod of gratitude, the boy looked around the mystical cave, filled with a newfound sense of purpose. His encounter with Mahadev had granted him not only a boon but also a deeper appreciation for the stories that had shaped his admiration for heroes like Karna and Meghnad.
"It's time for you to depart, my child," Mahadev said with a gentle smile. "Reborn as Meghnad in Treta Yug, your journey awaits. Embrace the challenges that lie ahead, for they will shape not only your destiny but the fate of those around you."
The boy nodded solemnly, a mixture of anticipation and resolve filling his heart. "Thank you, Mahadev, for this opportunity," he said sincerely, bowing his head in reverence.
Mahadev placed a reassuring hand on the boy's shoulder, his touch imbued with a comforting warmth. "Go now, and may your path be illuminated by courage and wisdom. Remember, you carry the legacy of Meghnad within you."
With those parting words, Mahadev's form began to fade, dissolving into the ethereal glow that permeated the cave. The boy closed his eyes, feeling the currents of existence shift around him as he prepared to embark on his new journey.
***
[City Of Lankapuri, Kingdom of Lanka]
The whole city of Lankapuri was in a celebration mood as today was the day their beloved Queen Mandodari was going give birth to a child of extraordinary importance. The streets were adorned with colorful banners and flowers, and the air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter. Citizens from all corners of the kingdom gathered in anticipation, eager to witness the auspicious event that would mark a new chapter in the kingdom's history.
As the time for birth was coming near the sky started to turn dark with thunder dancing across the horizon as rain pattered against the ground.
***
Arghhhhhhhhh!!!
In a luxurious chamber of the Royal Palace anguish, the screams of a woman echoed, disrupting the tranquility of the surroundings. Queen Mandodari, was giving birth.
On the massive bed covered with silken sheets, Queen Mandodari writhed in pain. The room was dimly lit, with the only source of light coming from the flickering lamps that cast dancing shadows on the walls. The air was thick with tension as the royal attendants and physicians moved about, attending to the queen in her time of agony.
But King Ravana was nowhere to be seen. His absence added to the unease in the room, and the queen's anguished cries seemed to echo the unspoken turmoil within the palace walls.
As the pain intensified, Mandodari's grip tightened on the sheets beneath her. Her breaths came in ragged gasps, and beads of sweat adorned her forehead. The attendants exchanged concerned glances, aware of the delicate nature of this birth.
...
...
On the other side of the palace is a chamber so spacious called the Throne Room. King Ravana, adorned in regal attire, sat on his imposing throne. His eyes bore the weight of responsibilities and concerns that extended beyond the palace walls. The news of Queen Mandodari's labor had reached him, yet he remained seated, because if he lifted his feet then if child's future would be not as perfect as it should be.
Why you ask?
Because the moment he lifts his feet from the top of the 'body' of Shani Dev who was lying under the feet of Ravana. All his preparation and efforts he had done would have been in vain. But more than that, It might affect the child negatively.
It all started with Ravana's wish for his son to be supreme so that no one in the world could defeat him. Ravana wanted his son to be the ultimate warrior and extremely knowledgeable. As Ravana was a great astrologer. To make his son immortal, he commanded all the planets and constellations in such a position that would allow his son to be born the way he wanted.
However, one planet, Shani (Saturn), refused to comply with Ravana's commands. Shani Dev, known for his strict and just nature, couldn't fulfill Ravana's wish for an immortal and invincible son.ย
In anger, Ravana fought and subjugated Shani Dev to be under his feet, a symbolic act of asserting dominance over the planet that had dared to defy him.
Arghhhhhhhhh!!!
As Queen Mandodari's agonized screams echoed through the palace, the very ground seemed to shake. The celestial beings, aware of the unfolding drama, watched with bated breath as the fate of the unborn child hung in the balance.
In the Throne Room, the agony of Queen Mandodari's labor was not lost on King Ravana. His stern expression betrayed a mixture of concern and impatience. The presence of Shani Dev under his feet added an ominous undertone to the proceedings.
The chamber filled with the sound of Queen Mandodari's final, piercing scream, and then, an eerie silence descended. The attendants exchanged nervous glances, and a sense of foreboding settled over the room.
Rumble! Rumble!
Uwha~ Uwha~
The sound of Thunderclaps resounded all over Lanka followed by the cry of a newborn baby.
...
The Royal Physician emerged from the Queen's chamber, his face a mix of relief and concern. He approached King Ravana, who rose from his throne with an air of anticipation.
"Congratulations, my Lord," the physician spoke, bowing respectfully. "You are now the father of a healthy baby boy."
A wave of relief washed over Ravana, and a rare smile crept onto his face. However, the physician's next words dimmed the momentary joy.
"But, my Lord, there is something unusual about the child. His birthmark..."
The physician hesitated, glancing at the attendants who exchanged wary glances.
"What is it?" demanded Ravana, his impatience evident.
.
..
...
[To Be Continued]
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Word Count: 2143