Karna's Realization [Old Version]

14. Different But Same

In the serene abode Lord Shiva, Kailash, Devi Parvati was deep in contemplation. "Swami, destiny has taken a complete turn. If Karna hadn't spoken the truth, Bhanumati would have been abducted by Duryodhana and Karna. But now, Bhanumati feels love for Duryodhana."

"Yes, Gauri, Karna has altered Bhanumati's fate. Her union with Duryodhana will transform him entirely and lead him onto the path of righteousness. It will mark the beginning of Dushasana's love story as well," Lord Shiva spoke while his gaze wandered across the vast expanse of the sky.

"But Swami, I have a question. How will Karna change the fate of Draupadi?" Devi Parvati inquired, seeking her husband's wisdom.

"He has already altered her destiny," Lord Shiva replied, his face serious.

"How, Swami?" Mata Parvati pressed further.

"Time will reveal, Gauri. You possess the ability to see the future, but you must always seek my guidance to understand it," Lord Shiva's voice resonated with a tinge of sorrow.

"As your wife, it is my duty to ask questions," Mata Parvati chuckled.

"We shall witness the unveiling of the new cards of destiny, Gauri," Lord Shiva remarked, and Mata Parvati nodded in agreement.

Meanwhile, in Hastinapur... For the past two months, Duryodhana had been consumed by a love that stirred within his chest. Deep in his heart, he knew he had fallen for the princess of Kalinga. His mind wandered back to their first encounter.

***

As the annual fair in Hastinapur commenced, inviting royal families from all corners of Āryāvrata, I sought solace in meditation at Karna's abode. Little did I know that destiny had a surprising encounter in store for me.

Unbeknownst to me, a princess had donned a common disguise to explore Hastinapur freely. As fate would have it, she unwittingly ventured into the forest, renowned for its majestic creatures and hidden secrets.

Unaware of the restricted forest area adjacent to Karna's practice ground, she wandered carefree, entranced by nature's allure. Suddenly, the echoes of wild animals filled her ears, signaling her predicament. Realizing she had crossed into forbidden territory, panic surged through her, and her cries pierced through the forest, reaching my ears.

Sensing something amiss, I seized my mace and raced towards the source of distress. My heart pounded with a mix of concern and curiosity. What awaited me in the depths of the forest?

To my astonishment, I discovered Bhanumati, surrounded by two tigers, her life hanging by a thread. Fear gripped her, as she believed her final moments were upon her. But fate had a different plan. The tigers, against all expectations, refrained from attacking. It was as if they recognized her innocence and vulnerability.