In the serene abode Lord Shiva, Kailash, Devi Parvati was deep in contemplation. "Swami, destiny has taken a complete turn. If Karna hadn't spoken the truth, Bhanumati would have been abducted by Duryodhana and Karna. But now, Bhanumati feels love for Duryodhana."

"Yes, Gauri, Karna has altered Bhanumati's fate. Her union with Duryodhana will transform him entirely and lead him onto the path of righteousness. It will mark the beginning of Dushasana's love story as well," Lord Shiva spoke while his gaze wandered across the vast expanse of the sky.

"But Swami, I have a question. How will Karna change the fate of Draupadi?" Devi Parvati inquired, seeking her husband's wisdom.

"He has already altered her destiny," Lord Shiva replied, his face serious.

"How, Swami?" Mata Parvati pressed further.

"Time will reveal, Gauri. You possess the ability to see the future, but you must always seek my guidance to understand it," Lord Shiva's voice resonated with a tinge of sorrow.

"As your wife, it is my duty to ask questions," Mata Parvati chuckled.

"We shall witness the unveiling of the new cards of destiny, Gauri," Lord Shiva remarked, and Mata Parvati nodded in agreement.

Meanwhile, in Hastinapur... For the past two months, Duryodhana had been consumed by a love that stirred within his chest. Deep in his heart, he knew he had fallen for the princess of Kalinga. His mind wandered back to their first encounter.

***

As the annual fair in Hastinapur commenced, inviting royal families from all corners of Āryāvrata, I sought solace in meditation at Karna's abode. Little did I know that destiny had a surprising encounter in store for me.

Unbeknownst to me, a princess had donned a common disguise to explore Hastinapur freely. As fate would have it, she unwittingly ventured into the forest, renowned for its majestic creatures and hidden secrets.

Unaware of the restricted forest area adjacent to Karna's practice ground, she wandered carefree, entranced by nature's allure. Suddenly, the echoes of wild animals filled her ears, signaling her predicament. Realizing she had crossed into forbidden territory, panic surged through her, and her cries pierced through the forest, reaching my ears.

Sensing something amiss, I seized my mace and raced towards the source of distress. My heart pounded with a mix of concern and curiosity. What awaited me in the depths of the forest?

To my astonishment, I discovered Bhanumati, surrounded by two tigers, her life hanging by a thread. Fear gripped her, as she believed her final moments were upon her. But fate had a different plan. The tigers, against all expectations, refrained from attacking. It was as if they recognized her innocence and vulnerability.

Approaching with caution, I extended my hand, offering her support and solace. In that instant, my gaze fell upon her, and I was captivated by her ethereal beauty. Unaware of my exposed chest, bared due to the absence of my upper garment, I stood before her, vulnerable yet resolute.

Bhanumati blushed profoundly, her cheeks rosy like the first light of dawn. I could tell that her heart had been captured long before this moment, as she had seen me during the Kalapradarshan, where my prowess with the mace had left an indelible mark on her soul. She had vowed to unite with a warrior skilled in the art of combat, and fate had led her to me.

With a voice as gentle as a summer breeze, she inquired, "What brings you here, prince Duryodhana?"

"My intention was to meditate at my friend's practice arena in the jungle," I responded, my eyes momentarily downcast.

Curiosity sparked within her, and she pressed further, "But what were you doing here at such an hour?"

"I was drawn to the enchanting greenery of Hastinapur, and in my exploration, I inadvertently crossed into this reserved area," I explained, a smile gracing my lips, for the beauty before me mirrored the beauty of the forest itself.

Suggesting that we leave the forest, I offered to escort her to Karna's practice arena. Entranced by her allure, I couldn't help but be captivated by her presence, her every movement captivating my senses.

As we arrived at the grand practice arena, built by my loyal friend Angaraj Karna, I watched as Bhanumati stood in awe of its magnificence. It surpassed even the most illustrious royal training grounds, a testament to the skill and dedication of its creator.

"Bhanumati, this marvelous arena was crafted by my dear friend, Angaraj Karna, for his training and the enjoyment of his wife, Angarani Madirakshi," I explained, a fond smile crossing my face as memories of our friendship flooded my mind.

Upon hearing the name of Angarani Madirakshi, Bhanumati's excitement reached new heights. She had heard countless tales of Madirakshi's grace and charm from her friends. It was as if the bonds of destiny were intertwining our lives, drawing us closer together.

Engaging in conversation, we strolled towards the city, our connection growing with each passing moment. The palace grounds marked the end of our journey that day, as we bid each other farewell.

In that fleeting encounter, Bhanumati had left an indelible mark upon my heart. Her love for nature, her innocent charm, and her unwavering resolve had captured my soul. From that moment onward, I knew that I had fallen deeply in love with her, and my heart yearned for the day we would meet again.

***

Interrupting his reverie, Ashwathama's voice echoed through Duryodhana's chamber as he entered. "Mitra, a messenger has arrived from Kalinga. Maharaj Dhritarashtra has summoned everyone to the court," he informed.

Duryodhana nodded, swiftly making his way to the court. The messenger waited outside, and a guard informed Duryodhana that he needed permission to enter.

Granting his consent, Dhritarashtra declared, "Permission granted." The guard left, and the messenger entered.

"Greetings King, I have come to convey a message from King Chitrangada," the messenger stated, proceeding to read the letter aloud:

"Greetings to King Dhritarashtra,

I, King Chitrangada of Kalinga, extend my honor in inviting the 106 royal princes of Hastinapur to participate in the grand svayamvara of my beloved daughter, princess Bhanumati.

It would be a blessing if a prince from the Kuru dynasty wins my daughter's heart.

We eagerly await the arrival of your esteemed princes.

Thank you,
King Chitrangada."

Bhishma beamed with joy and exclaimed, "Prepare yourselves, boys. I desire princess Bhanumati to be the new daughter-in-law of Hastinapur." The young Kurus nodded, leaving for their respective chambers.

Gandhari felt a surge of happiness, sensing that her son would emerge victorious in winning the hand of the princess.

Duryodhana, elated to receive the invitation, couldn't help but feel a hint of anxiety. "What if Bhanumati chooses another prince?" he pondered. Karna, seizing the opportunity, playfully teased his best friend.

"Fear not, Mitra. Princess will undoubtedly choose you," Karna reassured, accompanied by Madirakshi, who cradled their twins in her arms. Having recently arrived in Hastinapur, they received the news of the swayamvar.

Karna had also received an invitation but declined, stating that he was already married.

"Enough teasing my brother, nath," Madirakshi intervened, handing the twins to her brother. Duryodhana's heart swelled with joy as he witnessed the children.

"By winning the priness' hand, you will join my husband's club," Karna jested, and the trio erupted in laughter.

Subsequently, Dushasana and Ashwathama arrived, promptly taking charge of the twins and engaging them in playful activities after greeting their sister.

"You all have forgotten me," Karna retorted in his mischievous tone, eliciting further laughter. They continued conversing, enjoying each other's company.

Some time later, Mahamahim Bhishma summoned Karna and Madirakshi for a meeting. They left their twins in the care of their uncles, who relished their time with the children.

Upon entering Bhishma's chamber, they bowed before him in reverence. Bhishma blessed them wholeheartedly.

"The barriers of caste within Hastinapur are being dismantled," Bhishma declared, recognizing that progress required the freedom of speech, expression, and education.

"It is a positive development for Hastinapur," Karna replied, a smile gracing his face.

"Karna, I wish to hold a meeting with the council of ministers," Bhishma expressed his intention.

"We shall convene the meeting in the council chambers, with Maharaj Dhritarashtra, Mahamantri Vidur, the finance minister Ashwathama, the Raj Guru, the Kul Guru, and the members of the Hastinapur royal court," Karna stated, receiving Bhishma's nod of approval. A message was dispatched to notify the aforementioned individuals about the council meeting scheduled for the next day.

"Pitamaha, may I establish a free hospital in Hastinapur? It would aid the impoverished, offering regular check-ups and educating women on sanitation," Madirakshi proposed an excellent idea to Bhishma.

"What a splendid idea, my child. Yes, you may proceed. Please inform Gandhari, Kunti, and Dushala to be present at the meeting," Bhishma responded with a beaming smile.

After further discussion, the couple departed from Bhishma's chamber, making their way to retrieve their twins from their doting uncles. They then headed to meet Mata Gandhari.

In Gandhari's chambers, Kunti, Dushala, and Gandhari engaged in a conversation about the upcoming swayamvar of Princess Bhanumati.

A maid entered, announcing, "Maharani, Angaraj, and Angarani, along with their children, wish to meet with you."

A smile graced their faces, but Kunti's countenance lit up upon hearing the mention of her eldest son.

Karna and Madirakshi entered the room, seeking blessings from Kunti and Gandhari. They then greeted their sisters, who eagerly took the twins into their arms.

Gradually, the twins, amidst their cries, expressed their desire to be held by the elder females. Aditi approached Gandhari, while Vrishasena found solace in Kunti's embrace, engaging in innocent play.

Kunti's eyes welled with tears, and when Madirakshi inquired, she explained, "I am reminded of the days when my firstborn was just a child." Gandhari also shared fond memories of Duryodhana's early years.

They conversed and laughed for hours until Karna and Madirakshi, accompanied by their twins, took their leave, bidding farewell to their sisters.

***

The next day... the royal princes embarked on their week-long journey to the kingdom of Kalinga. Simultaneously, the council meeting commenced.

Karna discussed strategies to revitalize Hastinapur's economy. He proposed a plan for quadrilateral trade between Anga, Hastinapur, Dwarka, and the smaller supportive kingdoms. He advocated for greater freedom for businessmen and suggested a progressive tax system based on income.

He also put forth an idea to foster a bond between the Pandavas and Kauravas. He proposed that two leaders, Prince Yudhishthir and Duryodhana, represent the council of ministers. These leaders would form a team of six, facilitating thorough brainstorming and offering effective solutions of the highest quality.

King Dhritarashtra, Prime Minister Vidur, Mahamahim Bhishma, Queen Gandhari, and Rajmata Kunti would hold special veto power, requiring their signatures before any law could be passed.

Karna further suggested aiding allied kingdoms to strengthen their economies against Jarasandha and his company. He emphasized the need to initiate peace negotiations with Sindh and Magadha, fostering trade prosperity.

Bhishma, turning his attention to Madirakshi, sought her insights on how to improve the general immunity of Hastinapur's populace.

Madirakshi proposed the establishment of a free hospital, where she and her medical team could educate the public on sanitation practices. She also advocated for a separate hospital to cater to individuals with serious health conditions, preventing the spread of illnesses.

With the meeting concluded, each participant resumed their respective duties.

One week later... The one hundred and seven royal princes arrived at the grand palace of Kalinga, warmly welcomed by the exuberant hosts.

From the balcony of Bhanumati's chambers, she caught sight of Duryodhana and her heart swelled with joy, knowing that her life would soon be united with his. Meanwhile, Duryodhana's gaze remained fixed on Bhanumati for more than five minutes.

The princes were assigned their guest rooms, eagerly awaiting the events to come.

***

The following day... Bhanumati prepared for the svayamvara with the assistance of her maids, her mother present by her side.

"Putri, whom will you choose as your husband?" Bhanumati's mother inquired.

"The one whose eyes reflect love, passion, and care for me," Bhanumati replied, her smile radiant. With the help of her attendants, she adorned herself in resplendent attire.

At the Rajya Sabha, Duryodhana sat towards the end of the assembly hall.

The bride entered, holding a garland in her hands.

"Whoever my daughter chooses shall be her husband," King Chitrangada declared proudly.

With grace, Bhanumati walked, casting her gaze upon each prince. Yet, she found the three crucial qualities only in Duryodhana's eyes and began moving toward him.

Duryodhana's heart raced, as he never expected a princess to choose him. Bhanumati selected him as her husband by placing the garland around his neck.

Duryodhana's happiness knew no bounds.

***

Back in Hastinapur, Gandhari rejoiced upon learning of her son's triumph in the swayamvar.

Karna felt elated, knowing that another companion would aid him in guiding Duryodhana's perspective. Madirakshi eagerly anticipated a new sister joining their family.

After two days, the marriage ceremony between Duryodhana and Bhanumati took place. The Kauravas rejoiced, welcoming their new sister-in-law. The Pandavas shared in the celebration, and soon, they all returned to Hastinapur.

After the tiresome journey of six days, the entourage arrived in Hastinapur, where the people cheered for the newlywed couple. Gandhari, filled with joy, performed the Griha pravesh ceremony, welcoming the goddess of prosperity into their abode.

Unbeknownst to them, Dushasan experienced a transformation. He had fallen in love with a princess whose name he did not yet know. He first saw her during his sister-in-law's wedding ceremony, as she happened to be a friend of the bride.

"So different, yet so alike. Destiny has dealt new cards in this journey of righteousness," thought a man playing a melodious tune on his flute, standing on the enchanting seashores of Saurashtra.