The Path of Draupadi and Karna.

Love and Loyalty

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden hue over the land, Bhishma Pitamaha stood by the river Ganga, completing his daily rituals in honour of his mother. His silver armour shimmered like molten gold in the fading light, reflecting the peaceful beauty of the moment. The silence of the evening was suddenly interrupted by the faint whosh of an arrow slicing through the air.

The arrow struck the ground near Bhishma's feet, its shaft vibrating with the force of its impact. He immediately recognized the emblem on the arrow—a message from a spy. Bhishma bent down and retrieved the arrow, carefully unrolling the Sanskrit script tied to it.

The message revealed shocking news: the Pandavas were alive and well, and they had just disrupted the swayamvar in Dwarka, where Subhadra had boldly declared her love for Arjuna. Bhishma's heart swelled with joy at the revelation. His grandchildren were alive.

He knew what he must do. Bhishma resolved to apologize to Kunti for the injustices she and her sons had suffered and to bring the Pandavas back to Hastinapur. His heart ached to see his family reunited, standing strong and upright once again.

.....................................................................

As they made their way towards the stables, Arjuna couldn't help but be impressed by Subhadra's composure. Despite the chaos around them, she handled the crowd with grace, her hand firmly holding onto Arjuna's arm. They navigated through the bustling marketplace of Dwarka, filled with vibrant stalls, merchants calling out their wares, and the scent of spices wafting through the air.arjuna applied the the sacred vermilion and a mound of it well on subdras nose depicting the amoint of love arjuna has on his subadra.Her lehanga swaying right and left. Firmly tied to her waist, Adding elegance to the eloping couple

Subhadra led Arjuna to a beautifully adorned chariot, its golden frame shining under the setting sun. She climbed into the driver's seat with a confident smile, reminiscent of Krishna's aura of assurance.

"Can you handle this?" Arjuna asked a playful challenge in his voice.

Subhadra's smile widened, and she gave him a determined look. "Watch me," she said, taking the reins with a steady hand.

Arjuna couldn't help but admire her as she expertly manoeuvred the chariot through the crowded streets. The people of Dwarka, though curious, gave way, recognizing their princess and her companion. They passed through the bustling market, where colourful fabrics fluttered in the breeze and the chatter of merchants and customers filled the air. Subhadra guided the chariot towards the outskirts of Dwarka, heading for the Durga temple, where they sought refuge and solace.

.......................................................................................

In the quiet confines of Anga Rajya, Karna and Draupadi lay entwined in each other's arms, finding peace in their love. The room was bathed in a soft, warm glow from the flickering firelight. The bed was adorned with crimson and gold sheets, their colours vibrant against the backdrop of the night. Karna's strong arms were wrapped protectively around Draupadi, her head resting on his chest, rising and falling with each breath he took.

The night was still, but the echoes of past terrors haunted Karna's dreams. "Sutaputra, Sutaputra..." The whispers seemed to come from all directions, tormenting him. His body tensed, and his breath quickened as an anxiety attack gripped him.

Draupadi awoke to the sound of Karna's strained breathing and saw the distress etched on his face. Her heart ached for him, knowing the pain he carried from the constant mockery and insult. She gently caressed his cheek, her touch tender and reassuring. "Karna, I am here," she whispered, her voice soothing and calm.

Karna's eyes flickered open, filled with misery and vulnerability. Draupadi's presence was a balm to his troubled soul. She pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead, her lips lingering as if trying to absorb his pain.

"Shh, it's okay," Draupadi murmured, holding him tighter. "I am with you, always."

Karna's breath began to steady as he felt the warmth and love emanating from Draupadi. He buried his face in her hair, drawing comfort from her closeness. Draupadi's arms encircled him, her embrace firm and unwavering. As Karna's anxiety subsided, a tiny tear rolled down her cheek, reflecting the flickering firelight. She kissed his forehead again, her lips whispering a silent promise.

At that moment, Draupadi vowed to herself that she would do anything to protect and support her husband. Love, she realized, was a powerful force, capable of soothing the deepest wounds and providing strength in the darkest of times.

As Karna finally drifted into a peaceful sleep, Draupadi held him close, her heart filled with fierce determination. She would stand by Karna, no matter the challenges they faced. For love was not just a feeling, but a promise—a promise to be there, to support, and to cherish, through every trial and triumph.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back at the Durga temple, Arjuna and Subhadra stood before the deity, their hearts pounding with anticipation. The temple was serene, the air filled with the scent of incense and the soft glow of oil lamps.

"Subhadra," Arjuna began, his voice filled with emotion. "In front of the goddess Durga, I promise to be by your side, to protect you, and to love you for all eternity."

Subhadra's eyes glistened with tears of joy. "Arjuna, I promise to stand by you, to support you, and to love you with all my heart."

As they exchanged vows, the priest chanted sacred hymns, blessing their union. Subhadra and Arjuna's hands were tied together with a sacred thread, symbolizing their eternal bond.

"I never imagined this day would come," Subhadra whispered, her voice trembling with happiness. "I am so grateful to have you in my life."

Arjuna smiled, his heart swelling with love. "And I am grateful for you, Subhadra. You are my strength, my joy, and my love."

With their vows complete, the priest declared them husband and wife. The air was filled with a sense of divine blessing as they took their first steps together as a married couple.

After their marriage, Arjuna and Subhadra returned to Dwarka. The city was alive with festivities, unaware of the dramatic turn of events. Subhadra's return with Arjuna caused a stir, but her determination and love for Arjuna were undeniable.

Subhadra's brothers, Krishna and Balarama, awaited their return. Krishna's eyes twinkled with mischief as he welcomed them. "So, my dear sister, you have made your choice," he said, a hint of pride in his voice.

Subhadra nodded, her hand tightly holding Arjuna's. "Yes, brother. I have chosen Arjuna, and I will stand by him always."

Balarama, though initially hesitant, saw the love in his sister's eyes and the determination in Arjuna's. He stepped forward, embracing them both. "Welcome to the family, Arjuna. May your union be blessed with happiness and strength."

Krishna's smile widened. "Now that this matter is settled, let us celebrate! Dwarka shall witness a grand celebration in honour of this union."

As the celebrations began, Arjuna and Subhadra found a moment of peace amidst the joyous chaos. They stood together, watching the festivities, their hearts filled with hope and love for the future.