Dhritarashtra, on Shakuni's advice, made Karna the king of Anga as the prize for winning the Kala Pradarshan, which Karna gladly accepted. Meanwhile, Bhishma declared the conclusion of the Kala Pradarshan and instructed the crowd to vacate the arena. However, he requested Karna and Madirakshi to remain as he wished to speak with them.

The royal members began descending towards the arena ground, but their progress was leisurely.

Unexpectedly, Ashwathama and Dushasana embraced Karna, who reciprocated the gesture. In that heartfelt embrace, Ashwathama and Dushasana felt a sense of lightness and comfort.

"In addition to being our friend, will you be our companion as well?" Dushasana and Ashwathama inquired in unison.

"Yes, dear Ashwathama and dear Dushasana," Karna replied with a smile.

Karna then introduced his wife to his newfound friends, upon which all three bowed respectfully, but were taken aback by the next words she spoke.

"Will you be my brothers? I have always longed for brothers in my life," Madirakshi expressed, causing the three friends to nod in agreement.

"From this point forward, you are our elder sister," the three friends proclaimed in unison.

"Siblings Duryodhana, Dushasana, and Ashwathama, would you grace my humble abode with your presence for lunch?" Madirakshi invited her newfound brothers to dine at her home. The trio agreed, deciding that they would visit Karna's home the next day.

"What an unexpected turn of events for Duryodhana and his brothers. You will all partake of your lunch in the house of a charioteer," Bhima taunted, visibly agitated by Karna's presence. Bhima's words were enough to incite the anger of the Kauravas.

Duryodhana was about to respond, but Karna intervened, urging him not to engage in a fight at that moment. Yudhishthira sighed as he witnessed their relationship sour even before it could fully develop. Madirakshi felt a surge of anger but managed to control it.

Soon, the royal family, accompanied by their gurudev, arrived. Karna and Madirakshi bowed to their gurus, who bestowed heartfelt blessings upon them.

"Gurudev, please grant me the honor of serving both of you," Madirakshi broke the silence by inviting her teachers to lunch at her home. Both sages assented, saying, "We shall accompany you, my children. Bhishma, we shall return tonight, is that acceptable to you?"

Bhishma simply nodded in assurance.

Kunti observed Karna and Madirakshi while suppressing her tears. She longed to embrace her son, but circumstances forbade it, as it could raise doubts about his character.

Bhishma invited Karna and Madirakshi for dinner at the palace, an invitation they gladly accepted.

Vidur, taken aback by the day's events, needed time to process them. He worried about the popularity decline faced by the sons of Pandu due to the rise of Karna, the mighty warrior.

Shakuni rejoiced, considering his plan to diminish the popularity of the Pandavas a resounding success.

Dhritarashtra felt elated, now that Duryodhana and Karna were friends. He recognized Karna as a formidable ally whose support could prove invaluable in the impending war for succession. Gandhari, too, found solace in her son finding a friend who understood him.

After some conversations, everyone left the arena. Bhagwan Parashurama and Maharishi Vashistha accompanied Karna and Madirakshi to their home, while the royal family retired to the palace for some rest. The boys from Dwarka rejoiced, anticipating a bright future for Hastinapur.

The Pandavas carried Arjuna with them and reunited with their family.

The Kauravas freshened up and met with their mother, father, and their uncle.

"Nephew, today was a splendid day for me. Have you noticed the expressions on the faces of those Pandavas?" Shakuni chuckled.

"Yes, uncle. Today, my friend Karna revealed the true position of the Pandavas. I couldn't help but observe their countenances when Arjuna was defeated and lay in the center of the arena," Duryodhana shared, laughing at the jokes his brother cracked about the Pandavas.

"After all these years, the Pandavas and their supporters find themselves in a gloomy state. I vividly recall Nakul's defeated visage when he was swiftly vanquished by Mitra Karna. Karna allowed him no opportunity to settle into the battle; he simply blew Nakul away like leaves scattered by a fierce wind," Dushasana remarked, taking a sip of water. All the Kauravas laughed at their brother's comment.

"But we also lost our battles against him," Vikarna stated, not enjoying the jokes made at the expense of the Pandavas.

"True, we may have been defeated, but we gained a friend who will stand by us when no one else does. Uncle, I have observed that Karna bears animosity towards the Pandavas, Grandfather Bhishma, and Guru Drona," Duryodhana spoke in a serious tone.

"That is only natural, my friend. They have all rejected him in the most contemptible manner, even taunting him about his caste," Ashwathama reasoned, explaining Karna's grievances to Duryodhana.

"You should know that Yudhishthira sought an alliance with Karna after witnessing his formidable prowess. Let us not allow the Pandavas to draw near Karna. They seek to snatch your friend for their own benefit," Shakuni added, attempting to stoke Duryodhana's anger against the Pandavas.

"My friend is my friend, and I will not allow Yudhishthira to exploit him. Today, I have formed a bond of brotherhood with a girl who regards us with pure love and care," Duryodhana declared angrily. Ashwathama and Dushasana nodded in agreement.

They then had lunch prepared by their mother Gandhari and met with the guests who had come to witness the Kala Pradarshan. Afterwards, they retired to their respective rooms.

However, Dushasana and Ashwathama remained in Duryodhana's chambers, engaged in a discussion about the perfect gifts for their new best friend and newly found sister. They deliberated over various options.

"What's happening? What are you discussing?" Gandhari inquired as she entered to meet her eldest son.

Ashwathama explained the entire scenario of selecting gifts to his second mother, as Gandhari regarded him as a son who had supported her own son like a brother.

In her mind, Gandhari offered silent prayers, thanking Lord Shiva for sending Karna and Madirakshi into her son's life. She sensed that Duryodhana, Dushasana, and Ashwathama felt secure and at ease after meeting Karna.

"Present Madirakshi with a book on medicine, as she is a doctor who would appreciate a medical guidebook. And give Karna a magnificent bow, as he is an accomplished archer," Gandhari suggested, and the three friends agreed.

Subsequently, Duryodhana ordered his charioteer to take him to Karna's house, as he wished to bestow royal attire upon him for the evening.

***

At Karna's house, the young couple, Karna and Madirakshi respectfully washed the feet of their teacher.

Lord Parashurama and Maharishi Vashistha expressed that their home exuded an atmosphere of tranquility.

"It's all because of my daughter, Lord," Radha remarked with a smile.

"How is Shon?" Karna inquired with delight to the revered sage of Ayodhya.

"Shon is diligently training. He yearns to serve his elder brother with all his might," Maharishi Vashistha replied, and Karna nodded in understanding.

Both sages then partook of the food lovingly prepared by Madirakshi, enhancing the flavors with their blessings. They commended Madirakshi for her culinary skills. Afterwards, they requested Karna to provide them some space for meditation.

Karna led them to his practice arena, situated a short distance from his home. When the sages arrived there, they commenced their meditation, requesting Karna to leave them undisturbed.

Duryodhana caught sight of Madirakshi engaged in some work with grains as he approached his best friend's home.

Madirakshi noticed him and ran towards her newfound brother, warmly greeting him.

Karna also returned the embrace. He hugged his best friend and inquired, "What brings you here?"

"I came to present you and your family with royal attire, so that no one may mock you," Duryodhana replied, handing the garments to Karna.

Karna chuckled and responded, "Such trivial matters do not affect me or my wife."

"They may not affect you, but they certainly affect me, for you are my friend and your wife is my sister," Duryodhana stated authoritatively. Eventually, the couple relented, although Madirakshi declined heavy jewelry.

Duryodhana protested, but relented upon witnessing the beseeching expression on his sister's face. As he prepared to depart, Madirakshi halted him, insisting that he partake of some food.

"Where are my other brothers?" Madirakshi inquired of Duryodhana.

"They are resting in their chambers, as they are exhausted," Duryodhana replied, enjoying the delectable meal. He consumed three plates of food, savoring the delicate flavors. He felt as though his mother herself had served the meal, noticing the love and care with which Madirakshi attended to him. After a satisfying lunch, he bid them farewell and returned to the palace. Madirakshi and Karna had found a brother and a friend.

***

At the Hastinapur palace, the eldest Kauravas arrived at the palace and proceeded directly to his chamber, where he discovered his brother Dushasana and his friend Ashwathama seated on the lounge chair, accompanied by his sister Dushala. Upon his entrance, both his friend and brother bombarded him with questions.

"I went to Mitra Karna's house to present him with the royal attire," Duryodhana explained, recounting the events to all three. He teased his friend and brother, claiming the food was incredibly delicious.

"Why did you go alone? You didn't take me with you either. I was eager to meet my new brother and sister," Dushala complained, and Duryodhana fell silent for a moment.

"They will be attending tonight's dinner party," Duryodhana announced once his sister's anger had subsided. Dushala nodded and departed to see her mother.

However, Dushasana and Ashwathama were furious with Duryodhana for eating the meal prepared by their sister alone. Duryodhana assuaged their anger, promising it would not happen again.

***

At night, Karna and Madirakshi entered the palace accompanied by their mentors. Maharishi Vashistha and Lord Parashurama proceeded towards Bhishma and Dronacharya for an important discussion.

Within the palace, Karna and Madirakshi encountered Rajmata Kunti, who was taken aback at the sight of her son and daughter-in-law. Her mind wandered back to that fateful day, replaying the traumatic scenes once again.

They sought her blessings, which Kunti wholeheartedly bestowed upon her firstborn and his wife. Subsequently, they met a young woman of twenty named Dushala, who referred to Karna as her brother and Madirakshi as her sister. They learned more about her as she introduced herself as the only sister of the Kauravas and Pandavas.

Karna blessed her, and Madirakshi embraced her, after which Dushala spirited Madirakshi away for a sisterly conversation.

Karna then encountered Shri Krishna of Dwarka and his brother Balarama. Karna immediately recognized Krishna as Lord Vishnu, having witnessed his divine form before. He greeted Krishna with utmost reverence and engaged in political discussions. Afterwards, he set off in search of his friends.

On the way, he encountered the king of Gandhar, who employed his persuasive voice to ensnare Karna, but Karna simply listened without succumbing to the enticements.

Karna finally found his newfound friends, and they shared a warm group hug. They stood in the palace gardens, where the Pandavas were also present.

Yudhishthira stepped forward and paid his respects to Karna, who reciprocated the gesture.

"Why do you clasp your hands in front of a charioteer's son, dear brother?" Bhima jeered with uproarious laughter.

Duryodhana seethed with anger, but Karna restrained him, taunting Bhima and Nakula in return. "Dear friend, they are quite perturbed by today's defeat at my hands. Let us leave them be. We must not let it spoil our mood," the three friends laughed, departing with Karna.

"Where is Maharani Gandhari?" Karna inquired of his friends.

"She must be on the royal balcony," Dushasan responded, and the four friends proceeded to meet Gandhari. They were fortunate to find her unoccupied.

"Greetings, Maharani," Karna greeted Gandhari, offering her flowers.

"Call me 'mother,' my son Karna," Gandhari replied with a smile. The five of them engaged in conversation, and eventually Gandhari took her leave.

Karna desired to meet Maharaj Dhritarashtra, but knowing he was occupied with other kings, he decided not to disturb him.

After some time, Duryodhana inquired of Karna regarding Karna about his sister, "Where is my sister, my friend?"

"She is with my other sister, Dushala," Karna replied, relaying how Dushala had whisked Madirakshi away for a sisterly chat. Upon hearing this, all four friends burst into laughter.

Duryodhana then escorted Karna to his chamber. They settled in the lounge area, engaging in a heartfelt conversation about their personal lives.

"Dear Karna, what do you usually do in the morning?" Dushasana playfully asked.

"I have a habit of rising early. I meditate to attain inner peace. After meditation, I perform my daily rituals. Then, I engage in two hours of training," Karna revealed, glancing at his friends.

The three friends were astounded by this revelation.

"Now, tell me, what do you all do in the morning?" Karna inquired of his friends.

"We simply sleep," Ashwathama responded, followed by laughter.

"From tomorrow onward, you will rise early in the morning and train with me," Karna declared authoritatively, and the three friends agreed.

After a brief period of silence, Karna remarked, "I saw all of you in my arena while sparring with my wife. At that moment, I felt a deep connection with all of you."

"We also felt that connection of friendship from you, dear Karna," Duryodhana replied with a smile.

They then shared a group hug, and Karna assured them that he would always be there for them in times of adversity. He welcomed their thoughts and suggestions, emphasizing that they were always open to sharing their concerns with him.

Dhritarashtra overheard their conversation, contented that his sons had found a friend who would support them in difficult times.

Thus, an unbreakable bond was forged among the four friends, who came to be known as the "Four Musketeers of Hastinapur." They departed for dinner, their camaraderie strong.

***

During dinner, Dushala and Madirakshi engaged in lively conversation, having formed a sisterly bond. Gandhari also joined the discussion, elated that she now had two daughters. She sensed a powerful aura surrounding Madirakshi, distinguishing her from other women present.

Kunti also participated in the conversation with Dushala, discussing matters of fashion and women's attire.

Meanwhile, the Musketeers arrived at the dining hall.

***

Maharishi Vashistha wished to speak with his student privately about an important matter. So he arrived at the private chamber of his student.

"What troubles you, Gurudev? You appear concerned," Bhishma inquired with a worried tone.

"I have come to deliver a letter from Emperor Prithvi," Maharishi said, handing the letter to Bhishma.

The letter was written in a coded language known only to the students of Maharishi Vashistha. Bhishma unsealed the letter and read its contents.

Respected Bhishma,

I am writing to you because a matter of grave significance has come to my attention.

I am aware of the conversation you had with Maharishi Ved Vyas regarding your family's role in the downfall of Aryavart. You were informed that only one man could save the Kuru lineage, and that man is Karna. I have personal knowledge of Karna's capabilities. He possesses the power to sway hearts and minds with his charisma.

I urge you to allow Karna to mend the broken ties between Duryodhana, yourself, and the Pandavas.

Furthermore, I implore you not to announce the Yuvraj of Hastinapur until matters in the kingdom are resolved.

Do not worry about Gandhara's King; he will soon depart from Hastinapur. I promise you this.

Sincerely yours,
Emperor Prithvi

Bhishma was stunned by these revelations, but Maharishi Vashistha revealed, "Bhishma, I informed Emperor Prithvi about these circumstances to seek his counsel. It is the best course of action for Hastinapur." Bhishma nodded thoughtfully, obediently burning the letter as instructed by his teacher.

"Karna, your mission is complete," Maharishi Vashistha thought, telepathically conveying the message to Karna, who smiled upon receiving confirmation of his success.

"Have faith in Karna and Madirakshi, Bhishma, and relax," Maharishi Vashistha advised, and his student nodded in agreement.

They both departed the room, filled with happiness.

***

In the resplendent expanse of the dining area, Dronacharya relinquished the weight of his past transgressions involving Karna and Eklavya, while simultaneously receiving sagacious counsel from his venerable mentor. He had come to comprehend his own rapaciousness in coveting the coveted throne of Panchal.

His revered guru subtly alluded to the concept of Gurudakshina, the token of gratitude to be sought from his disciples.

Bhagwan Parashurama unequivocally instructed Drona to exact retribution solely from Drupada, abstaining from usurping his kingdom. Drona tacitly acknowledged this directive.

His contemplative reverie was interrupted by Karna, who approached with an air of taunting obeisance. Madirakshi sighed audibly, as the palpable tension between these three pupils of Lord Parashurama grew increasingly perceptible.

"Karna, I wished to engage in dialogue with you. I have apprehended the folly of denying you the opportunity to demonstrate your mettle on the pretext of caste. I sincerely extend my apologies to you," Guru Drona spoke, his tone laden with contrition.

"I harbor no animosity towards you. A guru wields complete authority over their disciples, able to accept or dismiss individuals at their discretion. However, what pained me most was your denial of a chance to prove myself. Yet, I have transcended that incident, for I discovered a superior guru, a fatherly figure who nurtured and cared for me. I forgive you now that you recognize your lapse," Karna responded, a gentle smile gracing his countenance.

Ashwathama breathed a sigh of relief, elated that the enmity between his friend and his father had finally been extinguished. All present were buoyed by this development.

Subsequently, Bhishma entered the dining area in the company of his own guru, content that Karna had relinquished the burdensome weight of past memories, embarking instead upon a fresh chapter in life.

Gradually, the dinner drew to a close.

Duryodhana, Dushasana, and Ashwathama engaged in spirited conversation with their newfound sister, Madirakshi. Dushala engaged in friendly discourse with the Pandavas.

Gandhari, on her way to her chambers, suddenly caught wind of a familiar voice. "Mother, I beseech you for a private conversation," Karna implored.

Gandhari offered a gentle smile and beckoned Karna to her chambers.

Once inside, Karna bared his heart to Gandhari.

"Mother, I pledge to transform my friends into brothers, bridging the void with the strength of our friendship. I vow to guide my companion onto the righteous path. I understand him, for he endured a fraught childhood, perpetually branded as a malevolent force by others. I comprehend his anguish. He undertook the responsibility of tending to his ninety-nine brothers while you and Maharaj were occupied with regal duties. The elders of your family ostracized Duryodhana and his brethren, which prompted you to embrace Gandhar Raj Shakuni as his comrade. I do not cast blame upon you, but I assure you, I shall fill this void in my companion's heart with the warmth of friendship. I simply implore your support. Will you stand as my pillar, Mother?" Karna's countenance radiated with a charismatic aura.

Gandhari, overcome with emotion, wept and embraced Karna, profusely expressing her gratitude for his presence in her son's life. She vowed unwavering assistance to her son.

Karna, in response, flashed a reassuring smile and said, "No more tears, Mother. I find no solace in witnessing tears glisten within my Mother's eyes."

Gandhari, now chuckling, thanked Mahadev for dispatching Karna into her life. Together, they departed the chambers, strolling toward the royal gardens.

***

Within the verdant sanctuary, Duryodhana presented his sister Madirakshi with a compendium on medicinal arts, while bestowing upon Karna a resplendent bow of golden-brown hue, both of which were received with utmost delight.

As they engaged in conversation, Bhima once again provoked Duryodhana, jesting about his newfound benevolence towards Karna, a warrior of humble origins.

Karna, having reached the threshold of tolerance, retorted sharply, "Desist from dishonoring my progenitors, lest you bear witness to dire consequences."

Bhima, boasting of a strength likened to that of ten thousand elephants, jeered and let out a raucous laugh.

"Then put your strength to the test, princely Bhima," Karna declared, issuing a resolute challenge.

Thus, an agitated Bhima lunged at Karna with all his might, only to be restrained by the firm grasp of Karna's hand, before enduring a torrent of relentless blows delivered through unarmed combat techniques. Karna kicked Bhima about like an inconsequential sphere, leaving Bhima at a loss for recourse.

In a final display of dominance, Karna effortlessly hoisted Bhima in his hands, delivering a resounding kick to his chest, sending him hurtling through the palace like a mere plaything.

"Prince Yudhishthira, do educate your brother in the ways of propriety," Karna commanded, his voice brimming with ire. Yudhishthira meekly nodded, consumed by trepidation.

Duryodhana, Dushasana, and Ashwathama reveled in the spectacle, while Madirakshi exhaled audibly, both relieved and exasperated by her husband's audacious antics.

Kunti seethed with anger towards Bhima, her trepidation mounting when she witnessed Karna fling him aside. Nakul, mustering courage, rushed to tend to Bhima's well-being.

Dhritarashtra and Shakuni observed the unfolding spectacle with gleeful amusement. Bhishma and Drona stood in awe, marveling at Karna's mastery of unarmed combat techniques.

With that, Karna and Madirakshi took their leave, retiring to their abode, bringing an end to this eventful day of Kala Pradarshan.