Chapter 26: The Kaurava's Court

As Vihaan continued to impress the Kuru court with his ingenuity, he soon found himself facing a less welcoming audience. Word of his talents had reached the ears of Duryodhana, the eldest of the Kaurava princes, and his cunning uncle, Shakuni.

Summoned to Duryodhana's opulent chambers, Vihaan was met with an air of suspicion and disdain. The prince, notorious for his arrogance and jealousy, eyed Vihaan with barely concealed contempt.

"So, you're the boy wonder they whisper about," Duryodhana sneered, his voice laced with arrogance. "The one who claims to possess knowledge beyond the realm of mortals."

Vihaan bowed respectfully, masking his unease with a calm demeanor. "Your Highness," he replied, "I am merely a student of the world, eager to share what little knowledge I have gained."

Shakuni, a master manipulator, interjected with a sly smile. "Indeed," he said, his voice dripping with insincerity. "But knowledge can be a dangerous weapon in the wrong hands. We must be careful who we trust with such power."

Vihaan sensed the underlying threat in Shakuni's words. He knew that the Kauravas, driven by their insatiable greed and lust for power, saw him as a potential threat, a wildcard whose allegiance could tip the scales in favor of the Pandavas.

Duryodhana leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "Tell me, boy," he demanded, "what can you offer us? What makes you so special?"

Vihaan met his gaze with unwavering composure. "I offer my knowledge, Your Highness," he replied. "My inventions can bring prosperity and progress to your kingdom. They can improve agriculture, enhance trade, and strengthen your defenses."

Duryodhana scoffed. "Prosperity?" he sneered. "All I see are trinkets and toys. We need warriors, not inventors, to secure our dominance."

Vihaan held his ground, his voice unwavering. "Knowledge is the most powerful weapon, Your Highness," he countered. "It can shape the destiny of nations, build bridges between cultures, and pave the way for a brighter future."

Duryodhana's face darkened with anger. He had expected the boy to cower before his authority, to beg for his favor. But Vihaan's defiance, his unwavering belief in his own worth, infuriated him.

"Enough!" he barked. "I have no need for your lectures, boy. Your presence here is tolerated only because of your connection to the Pandavas. Do not overstep your bounds, or you will regret it."

Vihaan bowed his head, masking his anger with a facade of obedience. He knew that he had made a powerful enemy in Duryodhana, but he also knew that he could not back down. He had a duty to fulfill, a destiny to embrace, and he would not let the forces of evil deter him from his path.