King Drupad's smile grew wider, his enthusiasm was evident. "I propose a grand alliance between our kingdoms, one that goes beyond mere diplomatic ties. Let's join our families by marrying my daughter Draupadi. What do you say?"
Karna's exclamation reverberated through the chamber, his eyes widening in surprise at King Drupad's unexpected proposal. The idea of a grand alliance through marriage was indeed significant, but the suddenness of the proposal caught him off guard.
King Drupad chuckled at Karna's reaction, clearly amused by his surprise. "I can see that you are taken aback, Karna. But think about it – a union between our families would solidify the bonds between our kingdoms and create a formidable alliance. Your strength as a king and Draupadi's grace and intelligence would make for a powerful partnership."
"And don't use excuses like her wishes because you should know better that she loves you from the look she gives you often heck let me tell you one thing but please don't tell my daughter that I was the one who told you this, Promise me."
Karna nodded solemnly, a sense of understanding and respect in his eyes. "You have my word, King Drupad. I won't disclose the thing which you are about to say to anyone."
King Drupad released a breath of relief and said with a teasing expression, "Well the thing is she has many portraits of yours in her room back in Panchal and she keeps one portrait on her all the time."
Karna's brows raised slightly at King Drupad's revelation, a mixture of surprise and curiosity flickering across his features. He hadn't expected such a confession, and yet, it seemed to shed light on Draupadi's sentiments.
"I see," Karna responded, his voice tinged with a touch of amusement. "It appears that your daughter's feelings are indeed profound. Her actions speak volumes."
King Drupad chuckled, a twinkle in his eyes. "Indeed, they do. Draupadi is a strong-willed and passionate young woman. She has always been forthright with her emotions, even if she hasn't explicitly expressed them."
Karna's gaze shifted to the distance, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. The revelation about Draupadi's feelings added another layer of complexity to the alliance proposal. He couldn't deny that he held a deep respect for Draupadi and had been impressed by her character on multiple occasions.
"I appreciate your honesty, King Drupad," Karna said, his voice sincere. "Draupadi's sentiments are something I will take into account as I consider your proposal. A marriage alliance should be built on mutual understanding and respect."
King Drupad nodded in agreement. "Karna. The happiness and well-being of both individuals involved should be the foundation of any such alliance. Take your time to weigh the options, and when you're ready, we can discuss this further."
Karna offered a respectful nod. "Thank you for your understanding and for entrusting me with this delicate matter, King Drupad. Rest assured, I will approach this decision with careful consideration and the best interests of both our kingdoms in mind."
King Drupad smiled appreciatively. "I have faith in your wisdom and judgment, Karna. Regardless of the outcome, I believe our kingdoms will benefit from continued cooperation and friendship."
With a final exchange of pleasantries, Karna and King Drupad concluded their conversation. As Karna exited the chamber, his thoughts were consumed by the weight of the decision before him. He immediately left to find Radha Maa to have her thoughts on this subject.
Upon reaching Radha Maa's chambers, Karna was greeted by a sense of warmth and tranquillity. The air was scented with fragrant flowers, and the soft glow of lamps cast a gentle light within the room. Radha Maa, adorned in her regal attire, sat gracefully, her presence exuding a sense of serenity and wisdom.
"Welcome, my dear child," Radha Maa's voice carried a soothing quality as she looked up and met Karna's gaze. "I sense that you bear a weighty matter on your mind."
Karna showed a forced smile, knowing that Radha Maa's intuition was as sharp as ever.
"You are correct, Radha Maa," Karna began, his voice carrying a mix of earnestness and uncertainty. "I find myself faced with a proposal from King Drupad of Panchala. He has suggested a grand alliance between our kingdoms through marriage, specifically with his daughter Draupadi."
Radha Maa's gaze remained steady, her eyes holding a depth of understanding. "A marriage alliance is a significant decision, one that requires careful consideration and reflection. Tell me, my dear child, what are your thoughts and feelings regarding this proposal?"
Karna sighed softly, his fingers tracing an absent pattern on his knee. "The proposal took me by surprise, and I must admit that I hold a deep respect for Draupadi. Her character, her strength, and her intelligence are undeniable.
But Kamini, Brinda and Kali too like me from all the interaction I had with them from childhood and I too like all of them so that I can't choose one over another."
"What said you to choose just one?" Radha Maa interjected gently, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "It seems that your heart carries a special place for all of them."
Karna's gaze lifted to meet Radha Maa's, a mixture of relief and gratitude in his eyes. "You're right, Radha Maa. My bond with Kamini, Brinda, and Kali is unique and cherished. To choose one over the others would be unfair and unjust to their feelings."
Radha Maa's smile deepened as she nodded in agreement. "Love and affection are not finite resources, my dear child. The heart can hold and cherish many connections. It seems that your path is not to choose between them, but rather to navigate this situation with honesty, empathy, and the best intentions."
Karna let out a soft sigh, the weight on his shoulders feeling slightly lighter. "You always have a way of guiding me to the heart of the matter, Radha Maa."
With a final exchange of appreciative glances, Karna took his leave from Radha Maa's chambers—
["Who gonna open a harem I will be Bal Brahmachari Hmph!" HAHAHAHA!!!]
Karna's face twitched at the unexpected intrusion of Artemis's commentary, his moment of contemplation interrupted by its irreverent humour.
"Please Artemis, this is a serious matter. I'm trying to seek guidance here."
["Oh come on, lighten up a bit! Life is full of surprises, and love is a complicated journey. Just remember, whatever decision you make, make it with an open heart and genuine respect for everyone involved. And hey, who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon a solution that brings happiness to all parties. Just keep those handsome looks and your noble heart in check, and you'll do fine!"]
Despite the seriousness of the situation, a small smile tugged at the corner of Karna's lips. Artemis's lighthearted perspective provided a touch of much-needed levity, and her words held a kernel of truth.
"Thank you, Artemis. Your words bring some comfort and clarity to this complex situation."
["Anytime, my friend! Just remember, you've got this. And if you ever need advice on picking a suit of armour, I'm your goddess!"]
Karna chuckled softly, appreciating Artemis's unique blend of wisdom and humour. As he made his way back through the palace corridors, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The decision ahead was indeed complex, but he was determined to approach it with integrity and thoughtfulness.
Upon returning to his chambers, Karna found himself reflecting on the conversations he had had with both King Drupad and Radha Maa. The weight of his responsibilities as a king, as well as the intricacies of his relationships, weighed heavily on his mind.
Sitting down by a window overlooking the kingdom, Karna gazed out at the moonlit landscape. The moon's gentle glow illuminated his thoughts, providing a serene backdrop for his contemplation.
"You're deep in thought, aren't you?" a familiar voice echoed in Karna's mind.
Karna looked inward, acknowledging the presence of his divine guide, Krishna.
"Yes, Krishna," Karna replied mentally. "The decision before me holds great significance. It affects not only the future of our kingdoms but also the lives and feelings of those involved."
"Ah, love and alliances, a combination that has shaped the course of history," Krishna mused. "But let me remind you of something, Karna. Love isn't always about choosing one path over another. It's about finding harmony amidst the complexities of life. And remember, your heart holds a special place for all those who care for you."
Karna's gaze softened as he considered Krishna's words. "You're right, Krishna. Love is multifaceted, and it's possible to honour the connections I share with Kamini, Brinda, and Kali without causing harm. But what about the alliance proposal? How can I navigate this situation without hurting anyone involved?"
"Do you really want to know my opinion?" Krishna's voice echoed in Karna's thoughts, carrying a sense of gentle amusement.
"Of course, Krishna," Karna replied with earnestness. "Your guidance has always been invaluable to me."
"Then close your eyes first."
Karna complied, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. In his mind's eye, he could feel Krishna's presence growing stronger, as if enveloping him in a cocoon of wisdom and insight.
"Picture Kamini," Krishna began, his voice a soothing presence in Karna's mind. "Imagine her wedding with you and living happily by your side. Feel the warmth of her love and the joy of sharing your life with her."
As Karna visualized Kamini and their potential life together, he felt a sense of comfort and familiarity. He could sense their shared moments, their laughter, and the strength of their bond.
"Now, picture Brinda," Krishna continued. "Envision the life you could build with her – the conversations, the shared dreams, and the support you'd offer each other. Feel the depth of your connection."
Karna's thoughts shifted to Brinda, and he found himself immersed in a different kind of companionship. He could feel her determination, her passion, and the way they could complement each other's strengths.
"Lastly, picture Kali," Krishna instructed. "Imagine the happiness you could bring to her life, the adventures you'd embark on together, and the unbreakable trust between you two."
As Karna envisioned Kali, he felt a surge of energy and excitement. He could sense the dynamic partnership they could form, challenging each other to grow and explore new horizons.
"Now, open your eyes," Krishna's voice gently guided Karna back to the present moment.
"So how do you feel?"
Karna opened his eyes, a mix of emotions swirling within him.
"Good, Great even! Krishna, I can see the potential for happiness and fulfilment with each of them."
"Now imagine them being with someone that isn't you."
Krishna's words prompted Karna to consider a scenario he hadn't fully contemplated. He visualized Kamini, Brinda, and Kali with other partners, living their lives outside the context of his own involvement.
As he did so, he felt a pang of unease, a sense of loss that he hadn't anticipated. Divine flames started surrounding Karna's body reflecting his unrestrained emotions mostly a sense of loss and jealousy.
"Ah, my dear friend," Krishna's voice resonated with understanding, "it seems you've uncovered a truth within yourself. The flames of jealousy and loss can burn fiercely, revealing the depth of your emotions."
Karna nodded slowly, his gaze focused on the ethereal flames dancing around him. "It's true, Krishna. Seeing them with someone else stirs feelings I hadn't fully acknowledged before. Jealousy, longing... it's as if a storm rages within me."
Krishna's voice carried a soothing cadence. "Do not be troubled by these emotions, Karna. They are a testament to the depth of your connections. Love is not a passive state; it can evoke a range of feelings, including those that challenge us. The flames you see are a reflection of your heart's turmoil, and they are valid."
Karna took a deep breath, absorbing Krishna's words. "But what do I do with these feelings, Krishna? How can I navigate this situation without causing harm or betraying anyone's trust?"
Krishna's response was gentle but firm. "First, acknowledge these emotions within yourself. Understand that they are a part of your journey, and they do not define your worth. Second, communicate openly and honestly with those involved. Share your thoughts, your feelings, and your uncertainties. Do not shy away from the truth, for honesty is the foundation of any meaningful relationship."
"But having a harem is a luxury that a king can afford~," Krishna said with an expression that suggested something along the lines.