Karna's Realization [Old Version]

16. Jubliation

Inside the chambers of Karna, he sat on his opulent bed, accompanied by his wife, Madirakshi.

"Suryanandan, have you observed the changes in Bharata Dushasana? He seems lost in deep contemplation," Madirakshi inquired, her voice filled with curiosity.

"Yes, I have indeed noticed that. Perhaps he has succumbed to the enchantments of love," Karna replied, a subtle smile playing on his lips.

"How marvelous! I can hardly contain my excitement to discover who the lucky maiden is," Madirakshi exclaimed joyfully.

"Patience, my dear. Let us allow him to reveal his emotions first, and then we can discuss the matter further," Karna suggested, his attention diverted to their playful twins.

Meanwhile, inside Dushasana's chambers, he was consumed by thoughts of a captivating young woman he had encountered at the wedding of Bhanumati and during their visit to Magadha.

He had an uncanny feeling that both occasions featured the same girl, and he knew deep within that he had fallen in love. As he drifted off to sleep, his dreams were filled with her enchanting presence.

The following day, Karna and Duryodhana were engrossed in playful activities with their children. Vrishasena and Aditi, who were a year and a half old, and Lakshman and Lakshmana, who were seven months old, would often engage in playful interactions with one another.

Vrishasena, being mischievous by nature, frequently found himself involved in pranks. He would play with a small bow gifted by his father, but when he cried, it proved challenging for others to calm him down.

On the other hand, Aditi, Lakshman, and Lakshmana would engage in imaginative games of make-believe.

Vrishasena dashed towards his father, and Karna scooped him up with one hand. Smiling mischievously, Vrishasena exclaimed, "Play, Papa, play! Me mud-mud! I eat mud! It's tasty!"

"No, my son, that is very bad. Who told you to eat mud? Now go and clean your face. If your mother finds out that you are up to your mischief again, she will scold you. Once you have cleaned yourself up, you can play with your siblings," Karna gently scolded his son, wearing a smile on his face.

A soldier entered the room, delivering a message. "Maharaj, an important meeting has been summoned," he informed them. Karna and Madirakshi acknowledged the soldier's message and made their way to the royal assembly.

Dhritarashtra, seated on the throne, felt immense joy upon seeing the four children entering the room. He considered Karna as his own son.

"Bade Pitamaha, Lakshman wants to play with you," Vrishasena said, beaming with delight.

"Very well, my child. I will join you after this meeting," Dhritarashtra responded, his eyes filled with affection. The children left the room, and Dhritarashtra felt a newfound lightness within him since Karna had become a part of his life.