Karna's Realization [Old Version]

25. Recrudescence

Following the enchanting wedding ceremony, it was decided that all the family members would gather for the grand rajyabhisheka of Shon and Dushala, where they would be crowned as the King and Queen of Mewar.

Excitement rippled through the royal family as they anticipated the upcoming trip. However, amidst the jubilation, Karna sensed an unsettling shift in the winds. The direction had changed, and with it came a sense of foreboding. He knew that something significant was on the horizon, like the calm before a storm. His intuition told him that his adversaries would emerge even stronger, posing a formidable challenge. He could feel it in his bones.

Karna was also aware that Gandhar Raj would return to Hastinapur within a year, riding high on his successes in Gandhar. Although prepared, Karna harbored a slight fear of Shakuni. He knew that Gandhar Raj would be more powerful than ever, but the changing political dynamics of Hastinapur could also leave him vulnerable.

Deep in thought, Karna pondered the future during the last two days of their journey. Bhishma, perceptive as always, noticed the furrowed brow and deduced that Shakuni was the primary concern weighing on Karna's mind.

Ready to counter Shakuni's manipulations, Bhishma was confident that the alliance between the Kauravas and Pandavas would leave Shakuni devastated.

Observing the tension on Karna's face, Madirakshi asked, "Suryanandan, what is troubling you?"

"My beloved, it's Gandhar Raj Shakuni. I sense that he plans to unleash something significant upon his return to Hastinapur. But for now, let us enjoy our journey," Karna replied, hiding his concerns beneath a veneer of optimism.

Lost in their own world, Shon and Dushala exchanged glances brimming with love and passion. Their union was celebrated with fervor, extending into the night of their wedding.

The children reveled in the joyous festivities, and the news of Devika and Amrita's pregnancies with the children of Yudhishthira and Dushasana added to the jubilation.

After a five-day journey, they finally arrived in the resplendent kingdom of Mewar, with its vast palaces awaiting their presence. Despite Karna's noble refusal, Shon and Dushala insisted on bestowing the kingdom upon him. Reluctantly, Karna agreed, symbolically crowning them as the new King and Queen of Mewar.

The following day, Maharishi Vashistha conducted the grand rajyabhisheka of Shon and Dushala, anointing them as the rightful rulers of Mewar. The couple sought blessings from their elders, their hearts filled with gratitude.

Shon wasted no time in assuming his responsibilities, initiating discussions for a trade alliance between Mewar, Hastinapur, Anga, and Dwarka. As they prepared for their return to their respective kingdoms, Karna, Madirakshi, Radha, Adhirath, and the twins chose to remain with Shon and Dushala. They stood as pillars of support for the newly crowned monarchs. Radha and Adhirath decided to permanently reside in Mewar, their wanderlust satiated.