In a different part of the royal palace, Draupadi, Brinda, Kali, Scáthach, Tara, Lilith, Kamini, and Mandodari were together, sharing their thoughts and feelings. The tension created by interacting with the Pandava brothers still hung in the air.
"Disgusting!"
Brinda's voice carried a note of frustration as she expressed her displeasure with the behavior of the Pandava brothers. Her peaceful and harmonious nature clashed with the aggression she had witnessed.
"Fools!"
Kali, with her assertive and fierce disposition, didn't mince words in her disapproval of Bhima and Arjuna's attitude.
"Pigs!"
Scáthach, the warrior-queen, echoed the sentiment with disdain in her voice. Her background in martial training had instilled a deep sense of respect for honor and dignity.
Draupadi, with her regal demeanor, spoke up with poise. "Ladies, let us not be disheartened by the actions of others. We are here to support Karna and witness the grand competition. Our grace and dignity will serve as a stark contrast to any disrespectful behavior."
Tara, with her gentle and humble disposition, nodded in agreement. "Draupadi is right. Let our actions and demeanor reflect the qualities that define us."
Lilith, the enigmatic presence, observed the group and offered her own perspective. "While it's disappointing to see such behavior, it also allows us to showcase our strength of character. Let's remain united and composed."
Kamini, with her boundless enthusiasm, chimed in with a bright smile. "You're all right! We can rise above this and make this event memorable with our grace and positivity."
Mandodari, who had demonstrated grace and diplomacy in her interactions, added, "Our unity and strength will speak louder than any words. Let us support Swami and make this event a testament to our values."
"Oh yeah, I will also participate in the Spearman-ship competition. It's a surprise so don't tell about this to Karna."
As Scáthach revealed her plan to participate in the Spearman-ship competition as a surprise, the rest of the group exchanged knowing glances. They understood the significance of her involvement and recognized her exceptional skill in martial combat.
Draupadi, as the group's de facto leader, offered her support. "That's a brilliant idea, Scáthach. Your participation will not only showcase your remarkable abilities but also provide another layer of excitement to the competition."
Kali's eyes gleamed with anticipation. "I've sparred with you many times, Scáthach, and I can attest to your incredible prowess. This competition will undoubtedly be more thrilling with your inclusion. Then I too will participate in the Swordsmanship even if I know I will defeated by Karna fufufu~"
"Oh~ Oh~, then I will also participate in Gauntlet Combat and show what I am capable of!" Kamini's enthusiasm was infectious, and she was eager to demonstrate her combat skills alongside Scáthach.
Mandodari smiled warmly. "It's wonderful to see such enthusiasm. Each of you has unique strengths to bring to this event, and your participation will undoubtedly make it even more memorable."
Tara, in her gentle and humble manner, expressed her thoughts. "I may not possess the martial skills that some of you do, but I hope to support and cheer you on throughout the competition. We are a team, and our collective spirit is a force to be reckoned with."
Lilith's enigmatic aura seemed to carry a sense of intrigue. "I shall be there to observe and offer my support. And who knows, I might surprise you all as well."
"Shaurya I have to meet some people. So stay with them and protect them if necessary, Okay?"
Karna addressed Shaurya, the divine lion, with a sense of responsibility. The magnificent beast nodded in acknowledgment, understanding the importance of its role.
"Shaurya, I trust you to protect and watch over them," Karna continued. "Keep them safe and ensure that their stay in Hastinapur is without any disturbances."
With that Shaurya entered the chambers of girls and took his seat beside the bed on which they were talking.
As Karna made his way towards the chambers of the Queen of Hastinapur, he couldn't help but reflect on the events that had transpired since his arrival. The interactions with the Pandava brothers had been far from ideal.
'Some brothers they are.'
Karna thought chuckling to himself, his thoughts a mixture of amusement and bemusement as he considered the varied personalities and rivalries within the Pandava family. He understood that their actions and attitudes were shaped by their desires and circumstances.
As he reached the chamber of the queen, A maid standing outside looked at him.
"Please inform Her Majesty that I request her permission to enter."
The maid nodded and quickly entered the chamber to convey Karna's request to Queen Gandhari.
Inside the chamber of Queen Gandhari, the atmosphere was serene and filled with the soft, melodious sound of a veena being played.
The queen sat gracefully on a regal chair, her eyes filled with helplessness and sorrow. But even then her presence carried an air of regal authority, and her veena's music echoed her emotions.
The maid approached Queen Gandhari and whispered softly, "Angraj Karna requests permission to enter, Your Majesty."
Ding~
She stopped playing Veena abruptly, her fingers poised above the strings. Queen Gandhari acknowledged the message with a small nod, her eyes filled with happiness and hope just hearing his name as she heard that Karna was requesting to enter. Despite her sorrow and the challenges she faced, the prospect of Karna's visit brought a sense of anticipation and comfort.
"Allow him to enter," Queen Gandhari instructed the maid.
The maid curtsied in acknowledgment and swiftly exited the chamber to convey the queen's consent to Karna.
A moment later, the door to the chamber opened, and Karna entered with a sense of respect and decorum. He folded his hands together in greeting, his demeanor reflecting his regard for the queen.
"Namaste~ Your Majesty~"
"Oh~ Hush you! and its mother for you."
Queen Gandhari's voice held a touch of playfulness as she addressed Karna. Her affectionate tone was a stark contrast to the somber atmosphere that often surrounded her.
Karna smiled warmly. "As you wish, Mother. I hope you are well."
"Come here first and give your old mother a hug."
Queen Gandhari extended her arms, and Karna, with a genuine smile, stepped forward and embraced her. The hug was warm and filled with affection, a reflection of the bond they had developed over time.
Karna's holy aura worked wonders for Queen Gandhari, bringing a sense of solace and tranquility to her life, which was often marked by the weight of her responsibilities and the challenges she faced.
The queen spoke softly as she held her son in her embrace. "Your presence is a source of comfort and strength, my dear Karna. In these trying times, it is the moments like these that bring light to my heart."
Karna understood the burdens Queen Gandhari carried, and he cherished these moments of connection with her. "I am here to offer my support, Mother. If there is anything I can do to ease your worries or assist with the challenges you face, please do not hesitate to ask."
Queen Gandhari leaned back slightly, her hands resting on Karna's shoulders as she gazed at him with a mix of maternal love and pride. "You have grown into a remarkable king and a noble soul, Karna. Your devotion and valor are a testament to your character."
Karna's expression was one of humility. "I am honored to receive your words, Mother."
"Well...I want you to win this Kala Pradarshan, and win the hand of Dushala in marriage."
Queen Gandhari's request took Karna by surprise. He had not expected her to express such a wish, and her request held a profound significance.
"I am deeply touched by your request, Mother," Karna responded, his voice filled with sincerity. "Winning the Kala Pradarshan and marrying Princess Dusshala would be an honor. but...is she willing?"
Queen Gandhari's expression turned to that of mischief and amusement, "Do you know what she said~?"
As Queen Gandhari hinted at Princess Dusshala's response, Karna looked at her with curiosity, eager to know the princess's thoughts. He knew that Dusshala's opinion was essential, and her consent was vital for any potential union.
"She said, 'If it's him then I don't mind being tied to him forever'."
Queen Gandhari's words conveyed the acceptance and willingness of Princess Dusshala to marry Karna. The revelation brought a sense of warmth and joy to Karna's heart, knowing that her feelings were aligned with his own.
Karna was deeply moved. "I am humbled by her words. I too am willing to be tied to her, not just for this lifetime but for eternity."
Queen Gandhari's eyes filled with happiness as she observed her son's genuine feelings. "I see the sincerity in your eyes, Karna. May this union be filled with love and harmony. But remember, my son, you must win the Kala Pradarshan to make this wish a reality."
Karna nodded, his determination unwavering. "I will give my best in the Kala Pradarshan, not just for the sake of victory, but for the happiness of Princess Dusshala."
Outside in the palace gardens, Eklavya was doing his final preparation for Kala Pradarshan while imagining himself impressing his Gurudev, Karna with his archery skills.
The lush gardens provided a serene backdrop for Eklavya's practice, and he focused intently on each arrow he notched and released.
"Hey, Isn't this the peasant who came with Oh So Mighty Angraj Karna~"
Bhima along with Nakul and Arjuna, approached the gardens, interrupting Eklavya's practice. Bhima's tone carried a hint of mockery as he addressed Eklavya.
Eklavya turned his gaze toward the three Pandava brothers, a hint of annoyance in his expression at the disrespectful tone. He knew that Bhima's encounter with Karna had likely influenced their attitudes.
With composure, Eklavya replied, "Yes, I have the honor of training under Angraj Karna. His guidance and teachings have been invaluable to me."