Karna's Realization [Old Version]

6. Benefactor

After the sacred union of matrimony, the bride and groom gracefully ascended to their private chamber. This particular room, formerly belonging to the esteemed Brihadbala, had now been bestowed upon Karna following his ascension to the imperial throne.

Karna proceeded towards the dressing chamber, intending to change his attire, while Madirakshi delicately removed her embellishments and unveiled her visage, carefully placing her veil upon the vanity table. The weighty ornaments adorning her person were also laid to rest upon the surface.

Emerging from the changing chamber, Karna emerged clad in garments of lightness, urging Madirakshi to undergo a similar transformation. Obliging, she retreated to the changing room, resurfacing adorned in garments of ethereal simplicity.

Settling themselves upon a suspended seat, Karna and Madirakshi found solace in each other's presence. Breaking the tranquility, Madirakshi inquired, "Pray tell, what subject engrossed you and our revered guru in conversation?"

"Gurudev foretold that I shall mold the future of Āryāvrata, but not without the relentless toil it demands. He warned of the arduous path that lay before me, urging adherence to the righteous way, and bestowed upon me his blessings. Furthermore, he promised to reveal the third and fourth tasks of his gurudakshina," Karna responded, a countenance of elation gracing his features.

"Ever shall I stand beside you, Suryanandan, resolute in facing life's myriad challenges," Madirakshi affirmed, her expression mirroring her sincerity.

A tender embrace ensued, accompanied by a gentle peck upon Madirakshi's brow, as Karna expressed, "Fortunate am I to possess you as my consort."

Overwhelmed by the affectionate embrace, Madirakshi fervently replied, "Likewise, I am blessed to be wedded to a paragon of valor and virtue."

Having momentarily parted, the two gazed upon each other with pure admiration, their eyes communicating a profound depth of emotion.

Breaking the ensuing silence, Madirakshi inquired, "Pray enlighten me about your educational sojourn in the gurukul."

"I acquired mastery over various weapons, each with its own artistry. My revered guru imparted the knowledge of wrestling and unarmed combat, while the sacred vedas and the secrets of divine weaponry were revealed to me. Additionally, I acquired proficiency in the performing arts, such as dance and song. Furthermore, I honed my skills in survival, with the ability to procure sustenance from nature's bounty. Lastly, I recounted my encounter with Parashurama, much to Madirakshi's astonishment," Karna elucidated, his hands tenderly resting upon her shoulders.

In awe, Madirakshi discovered that her formidable warrior husband possessed talents beyond her expectations, including an aptitude for dance and song.