Karna's heart overflowed with joy as his family had finally come together. He now had a hundred and seven brothers, and his love for them knew no bounds. The sense of completeness enveloped his being, for his family was now whole.

Madirakshi, Karna's beloved wife, shared in his happiness. Not only had she gained a loving husband, but she had also gained many sisters. Her heart brimmed with joy, knowing that her family was safe and free from any threats.

Bhishma, overwhelmed with gratitude, thanked the divine forces for sending Karna into the lives of the Kuru dynasty. With his family now saved, all the looming threats that once haunted them had dissipated. Thoughts of concluding his own life gave way to visions of Karna's coronation as the new king of Hastinapur.

Vidur witnessed the unity of the brothers with a profound sense of happiness. The dark clouds that once cast shadows over Hastinapur had vanished, and he felt immense relief. Contemplating the future, he pondered upon who would ascend the throne as the new king of Hastinapur.

Dhritarashtra, overjoyed by the reunion of his family and that of his brother's, expressed his gratitude to every deity. Greed for the throne no longer tainted his heart; he found solace and contentment in the happiness of his family.

Gandhari, filled with delight, felt as if she were floating among the stars. She offered her prayers to Lord Mahadev, thanking him for sending Karna into their lives. Her happiness was magnified as Karna fulfilled his promise to protect Devika from the malevolence of her brother.

The entire Kuru family stood united, and even the members residing in Indraprastha relocated to Hastinapur. The public rejoiced, as peace returned to Aryavrata after an extended period of turmoil. The citizens celebrated the harmonious union that brought happiness to their lives.

One week later, a sabha was convened to discuss the succession of the throne in Hastinapur.

"Why have we gathered for this meeting?" inquired Duryodhana.

"Son, I wish to announce the next king of Hastinapur, as I desire to live a carefree life with my children and grandchildren," Dhritarashtra declared.

"In that case, proclaim Jyesht Karna as your successor," proposed Duryodhana. All the brothers nodded in agreement.

"No! I wish to be the king of Hastinapur. I am already the King of Anga and Ayodhya," asserted Karna.

"Why, my son?" Kunti inquired.

"Mother, the throne of Hastinapur rightfully belongs to Duryodhana, while the throne of Indraprastha belongs to Yudhishthira. I suggest that we proceed with the coronation of Duryodhana as the king of Hastinapur and Yudhishthira as the king of Indraprastha," Karna explained.

"Then, Jyesht, you shall be the new Emperor of Āryāvrata," proclaimed Yudhishthira and Duryodhana in unison.

"Very well, I shall accept the title of Emperor of Āryāvrata. Together, we shall govern this nation with unwavering strength and strive for a better future for our future generations. Let us unite this nation in the name of freedom, equality, education, and peace," Karna declared, a smile adorning his face.

"Then it is settled. We shall perform the rajyabhishek of Duryodhana and Yudhishthira. Kulguru Kripacharya, please determine an auspicious date for the abhishek," Dhritarashtra requested.

"Your Majesty, after one week, the festival of Diwali will commence. Five days after the festival of lights, we shall have the most propitious day for the rajyabhishek of both the princes," Kripacharya suggested.

"So, in thirteen days, we shall hold the rajyabhishek for both my sons. Vidur, please extend invitations to the entire Āryāvrata for these momentous occasions," Dhritarashtra instructed.

Excitement permeated the air with this announcement. The entire kingdom of Hastinapur bustled with preparations for the forthcoming events. People from various kingdoms, including Dwarka, Panchal, Virat, Vidarbha, Marwar, Shivi, Kashi, Madra, Sindh, and other families related to the Kuru lineage, flocked to celebrate the coronation of Yudhishthira and Duryodhana.

Karna, shouldering the responsibility, rallied the workforce from Ayodhya to hasten their preparations. Hastinapur transformed into a resplendent bride, adorned with magnificent decorations. Karna also summoned his children and Duryodhana's children from Ayodhya. Even Brihadbala would attend to witness the grandeur of the rajya abhishek. Maharishi Vashistha and Lord Parashurama, their revered teachers, were also invited to bless their students' families. The anticipation filled the atmosphere, save for Shikhandini, who harbored a desire for revenge against Bhishma. However, her heart also yearned for a union with him, as she had fallen in love with him during her time as Amba. Her thoughts consumed her.

Duryodhana, burdened with the weight of responsibility, found his spirits dampened. Sensing his friend's unease, Karna approached him, intending to lend an ear.

"My friend, why do you appear so troubled?" Karna asked Duryodhana, initiating a conversation.

"Friend, I am overwhelmed by the forthcoming responsibilities of kingship. I find myself questioning whether I will be a competent ruler," confessed Duryodhana.

"Friend, why do you doubt yourself? You will be an exceptional king. We, all hundred and nine brothers, shall face every challenge with resilience. I stand by your side, as does Yudhishthira. And soon, our children shall join us," reassured Karna.

"Friend, I thank you for dispelling my doubts and for being a guiding light in my life. You rescued me from the shadows cast by my own uncle," Duryodhana expressed, his eyes shimmering with gratitude.

Karna embraced Duryodhana tightly, affectionately ruffling his hair.

"Alright, my friend," Duryodhana responded, breaking free from the embrace. He immediately set off to make the necessary arrangements, leaving Karna smiling at his friend's lively demeanor. Karna then proceeded to the royal gardens, lost in contemplation of the various games they could engage in.

Soon, the excited gathering assembled in the royal gardens, eagerly inquiring about the first game they would play. The children were particularly thrilled.

"We shall begin with a game of Chupan Chupai," Karna announced, his excitement contagious. The entire gathering radiated anticipation, and Vrishketu couldn't contain his enthusiasm, exclaiming, "Yay! Chupan Chupai!"

"Now, who shall be the catcher, suryanandan?" Madirakshi teasingly asked her husband.

"It's simple, Matashree. The one who suggested the game shall be the catcher," Vrishaketu replied enthusiastically.

"I have no objections," Karna acquiesced, heading towards the counting spot. Everyone scattered to find their hiding places—some sought refuge in their chambers, while others concealed themselves among the weapons or in bushes and trees. Vrishaketu, mischievously, hid under his father's blanket.

Karna soon discovered Bhima and Duryodhana exchanging laughter in the weaponry section, and he found Dushasana, Amrita, Durmasan, Ashwathama, Meenakshi, Yudhishthira, and Devika hiding beside the thrones in the Rajya Sabha.

In a clever disguise, Karna unveiled Arjuna, who had disguised himself as a woman within his chamber. Around the trees, he discovered Arjuna's four wives. Karna successfully found almost everyone, except for his own wife and children.

With a sense of curiosity, Karna ventured towards his secret retreat. To his delight, he discovered Madirakshi and his third eldest son, Shatrujana, hiding there. Only the lively and chirpy Vrishaketu remained to be found. Karna searched every nook and cranny of the palace, until finally, he located his youngest son peacefully asleep in his own bed, wrapped cozily in a blanket.

Subsequently, it was Bheem and Duryodhana's turn to be "it," and the game continued for some time.

Karna then suggested a game of Human Chain, which intrigued everyone. The group readily agreed, and Karna proceeded to explain the rules.

"The catcher will tag one person at a time, and once tagged, the person must join hands with the catcher, aiding in catching the remaining participants. This chain of individuals will continue until the last person is tagged," Karna elucidated.

Since Yudhishthira was caught first in Chupan Chupai, it was decided that he would be the initial catcher. The game commenced, and Yudhishthira faced a challenging task in catching everyone present. However, he ultimately emerged victorious. The game continued, and laughter and merriment filled the air.

They proceeded to play Seven Stones, Kho-Kho, and Dabba Ice-Pice. The evening brimmed with enjoyment and enthusiasm.

As the sun began to set, the family gathered to dance to the captivating rhythms of nature, seemingly orchestrated by Karna's own magical powers. They then convened around a bonfire, engaging in various activities such as Antakshari, Pacing the Parcel, and Current-Current. Nightfall was accompanied by a grand feast, and they reveled in delectable food. They cherished the day, engaging in meaningful conversations and playing games such as Truth or Dare. Eventually, they retired to their chambers, enveloped in the tranquility of slumber, eagerly anticipating the grand day of the Rajya Abhishek.

Yudhishthira and Duryodhana entered the royal palace specially designed for them by the architects of Ayodhya. Clad in white dhotis, their bare chests displayed, they settled into the golden tubs positioned at the center of the sabha. Herbal and Vedic oils were poured onto them, accompanied by the chanting of sacred Vedic Shlokas. Subsequently, they underwent ceremonial bathing in herbal and religiously significant milk. Finally, they emerged, adorned in royal regalia, having taken a sanctifying bath in the holy waters of the Ganga.

Dhritarashtra, with great reverence, placed the crown of Hastinapur upon Duryodhana's head and the crown of Indraprastha upon Yudhishthira's. At this momentous occasion, Karna began chanting, "Hail King Yudhishthira! Hail King Duryodhana!" The entire sabha echoed his words in unison.

Yudhishthira and Duryodhana reciprocated, chanting, "Hail Emperor Karna! Hail Emperor Karna!"

Karna smiled at his brother, and the day of immense joy and happiness concluded with a grand feast. The family danced and reveled, cherishing every moment of the royal celebration.