Karna's Realization [Old Version]

24. Eventide

Madirakshi gracefully approached the door to her husband's room, where Karna had locked himself away, consumed by a tempest of rage. With determination, she pushed open the enormous doors, revealing a pitch-black chamber where Karna sat, tears streaming down his face. Exhausted and emotionally drained from wielding the formidable Trideva Astra, his condition was far from stable.

Gently, Madirakshi settled beside Karna, her touch soothing his tumultuous spirit. She tenderly ruffled his hair, bringing solace to his troubled heart. In a childlike manner, Karna murmured, "Why won't they acknowledge my mother's name, Priya?"

"Suryanandan, how many times must I explain that your mother couldn't claim you openly? Her family's reputation was at stake," Madirakshi replied, her voice filled with compassion.

"Is family reputation more important than me, Priya?" Karna retorted, his anger palpable.

In that moment, Karna embraced Madirakshi tightly, releasing a torrent of tears. Overwhelmed by emotional turmoil, he sought solace in her presence. Understanding his needs, Madirakshi continued to gently run her fingers through his hair.

Gradually, Karna succumbed to exhaustion and found respite in his wife's lap. His weary body and troubled mind found temporary reprieve, and he drifted off into a deep slumber, devoid of any desire to engage with others.

Vrishasena and Aditi remained silent, believing their father's anger was directed at their own mischievous behavior. Meanwhile, Gandhari and Bhanumati tended to the children, providing them care and comfort. However, Vrishasena sat still, tears welling up in his eyes, burdened by a sense of guilt. Aditi, exhausted, fell asleep.

Observing Vrishasena's distress, Bhanumati approached him and inquired, "What happened, my son?"

"Kakishree, I want to meet my father. I need to apologize for my misbehavior. My childish antics have angered him," Vrishasena confessed, tears streaming down his face.

Madirakshi, having settled Karna on the bed, left the room to attend to the twins. She discovered Aditi asleep but noticed her son crying, convinced that his father's anger was caused by his own actions.

"Vrishasena, come here, my child. Don't cry. It was not your fault. Your Pitashree could never be angry with you if you only understood that. He loves you deeply. So, let go of these unnecessary thoughts and go to sleep, just like your little sister," Madirakshi reassured him. Vrishasena embraced his mother, finding comfort in their conversation before finally succumbing to sleep.

Curious about Karna's well-being, Gandhari approached Madirakshi, seeking information. "How is Karna doing? Is he finally asleep? He seemed mentally disturbed due to his birth mother. I hope he doesn't suffer like this again," Madirakshi shared her concerns.