Karna's Realization [Old Version]

39. Arbitration

Karna was relishing an exquisite time in the midst of his family, thoroughly enjoying the captivating allure of nature. His family was the embodiment of his soul, and he held an equal love for all his children. However, he reserved a special place in his heart for his daughter and her youngest child Vrishaketu. The affection he felt for them knew no bounds.

Madirakshi, too, reveled in the company of her husband as they embarked on a family picnic. While she cherished all her children dearly, her eldest child Vrishasena and her third child Shatrujan held a special place in her heart. She longed for the presence of Vrishasena and Aditi, her mind momentarily diverted by the lively chirping of Shatrujan.

"Pitashree, Matashree, see Vrishaketu is eating mud, and he refuses to heed my words," Shatrujan exclaimed, bringing his younger brother before their parents.

"Nay, Matashree and Pitashree, Shatrujan bhrata is telling falsehoods. Observe my countenance; it remains untarnished. I am but an innocent child." Vrishaketu replied in his cheery voice.

"Allow me to examine you," Madirakshi said, lifting her youngest son and noticing traces of mud mixed with water on his neck.

"Putra Vrishaketu, do you perceive," Madirakshi began.

"What is it, Matashree?" Vrishaketu inquired, playing with his fingers while cradled in Madirakshi's arms.

"The stains of mud on your neck," Madirakshi revealed, gently twisting her son's ears, admonishing him for his deception.

"My apologies, my apologies. I shall never repeat it, but I do savor mud. It is quite delectable. You should give it a try, Matashree. You will relish it," Vrishaketu innocently suggested.

"Indeed, Vrishaketu. However, for now, accompany me. I shall cleanse you," Karna interjected. He proceeded to cleanse Vrishaketu, after which they shared a meal before returning to the palace.

"Dearest, tomorrow I shall depart for Anga, for Shri Krishna shall arrive as an envoy of the Pandavas. He seeks to negotiate with me regarding the Pandavas' Rajsuya Yagya. Take care of the palace, my love, and remember the room brims with positive energy," Karna whispered softly, his voice barely audible to Madirakshi alone.

"Fret not, Suryanandan. I shall remain here and attend to all matters diligently," Madirakshi reassured him.

They soon arrived at the palace. Karna grew weary of his monotonous routine, prompting him to seek out his musketeer gang. "Let us engage in a game of Seven Stones," he proposed, summoning his musketeers and their families.

The game would pit husbands against wives, with the children acting as umpires. The children brimmed with excitement, relishing the anticipation of a joyous game.

Karna gathered the seven stones, and as he held them in his hand, he began to speak, addressing all the players gathered around him. His voice carried with authority as he explained the rules of the game: