Draupadi's eyes fluttered open to the faint crackling of the morning fire. As she blinked away the remnants of sleep, her gaze met his. It was Karn, the man whose presence had occupied her thoughts since last night. She couldn't help but feel a rush of emotions, a mixture of surprise and curiosity, as she found herself face to face with him once again.

"Did I wake you?" Karn's voice broke the silence, his tone carrying a hint of amusement. "Surprisingly, you're a light sleeper."

Draupadi shifted slightly under the blanket, feeling the warmth. Her senses heightened by the intimacy of their proximity, she became acutely aware of her own vulnerability, draped only in the thin veil of the blanket, while Karn stood before her in his white dhoti and angavastr.

With a soft chuckle, she replied, "Perhaps I was simply eager to greet the dawn, just as you were."

Karn, standing near the fireplace, reached out to add a few more logs to the crackling flames. "I thought it would be better to add some woods," he explained, his gaze meeting hers briefly before he continued, "I intend to go out for my morning prayer, and I wanted to ensure that the chamber would remain warm in my absence."

As Karn moved closer, Draupadi instinctively pulled the blanket closer to her chest, a sudden rush of self-consciousness washing over her. She sat up slightly, her cheeks flushing with color as she met his gaze.

Sensing her discomfort, Karn moved to sit beside her on the bed, his touch gentle as he reached out to pat her head reassuringly. "Are you alright?" he asked softly, his voice laced with concern. "It was a long night, and I fear I may have kept you awake with my restless thoughts."

Draupadi's heart fluttered at his touch, her cheeks growing even warmer at the memory of their shared intimacy. But as she looked into Karn's eyes, she found herself lost in the depths of his gaze, a silent acknowledgment passing between them of the unspoken bond that had formed between them in the quiet hours of the night.

And so, as they sat together in the flickering glow of the morning fire, their hearts entwined in a silent dance of longing and desire, Draupadi couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over her. For in Karn's presence, she found solace and comfort, a fleeting glimpse of the happiness that awaited them in the days to come.

As Karn's words caressed her ears, Draupadi felt a sense of reassurance wash over her. She nodded gently, allowing herself to lean into his affectionate gesture as he kissed her forehead tenderly.

"Sleep for a while, dear," he whispered softly, his voice a soothing melody in the stillness of the early morning. "It's still dark. I will be back after my morning prayer."

With a grateful smile, Draupadi watched as Karn rose from the bed, his form silhouetted against the flickering firelight. She couldn't help but feel a pang of longing as he made his way towards the entrance of their chamber, his figure disappearing into the darkness beyond.

As the sound of his footsteps faded into the distance, Draupadi allowed herself to sink back into the warmth of their bed, the soft embrace of the blanket cocooning her in a sense of comfort and security. 

As Draupadi closed her eyes, she couldn't help but recall the tender moments they had shared just hours before. The warmth of Karn's touch, the intensity of his gaze, and the whispered words of affection that had passed between them lingered in her mind like a sweet, intoxicating dream.

Her cheeks flushed with color as she remembered the way Karn's lips had brushed against her skin, igniting a fire within her that she had never known before. The memory of their shared passion filled her with a sense of exhilaration, a longing for the intimate connection they had forged in the darkness of the night.

Despite the lingering traces of uncertainty that still lingered in her heart, Draupadi couldn't deny the overwhelming sense of happiness that washed over her at the thought of being with Karn. In his presence, she felt alive, her soul awakening to a love that transcended time and space.

Draupadi allowed herself to surrender to the blissful memories of their first night together, her heart overflowing with love and gratitude for the man who had captured her heart in the quiet hours before dawn.

After his morning prayer at the riverbank, Karn began his customary routine of generosity, knowing that the people of his kingdom often gathered there, hopeful for his benevolence. They knew that their king would never turn away anyone in need, and so they came, seeking his aid with hopeful hearts.

With a smile on his face and a heart full of compassion, Karn distributed food, money, and whatever else was requested of him, never hesitating to offer assistance to those who sought it. He took joy in the knowledge that he could make a difference in the lives of his people, even in small ways.

As Karn made his way back to the palace from the riverbank, he found himself walking alone, the weight of the morning's activities still lingering in his mind. The sun had begun its ascent in the sky, casting golden rays upon the world below.

Amidst the tranquil surroundings, Karn's ears caught a faint yet captivating sound, like the gentle whisper of a breeze through the leaves. Entranced, he followed the melody, each note pulling him closer to its source.

Unbeknownst to him, his steps began to stray from their usual course, guided instead by an unseen force drawing him towards the heart of the garden. It was as if the very air around him pulsed with an otherworldly energy, urging him forward with each passing moment. As he walked, Karn's senses became heightened, attuned to the subtle changes in his surroundings. The air seemed to hum with a gentle melody, a symphony of nature's chorus blending seamlessly with the soft rustle of leaves in the breeze.

Soon, he found himself standing before the Devi temple in their royal garden. And there, bathed in the soft glow of morning light, stood Draupadi, her form a vision of divine beauty against the backdrop of the temple's sacred walls.

She wore a red-colored lehenga with a golden border and intricate embroidery, the vibrant hues complementing the natural radiance of her complexion. Her long, thick hair cascaded down her back like a river of midnight, adorned only by her mangalsutra, anklets, toe rings, a simple single stone nose pin and bangles that chimed softly with each movement.

As Karn watched, spellbound by her ethereal presence, Draupadi's voice filled the air with a song of devotion to the goddess. Her words were like poetry, weaving a tapestry of prayers and blessings for the well-being of all those around her.

With each verse, Karn felt his heart swell with pride and admiration for his beloved wife. In that moment, he realized the depth of Draupadi's love and devotion not only to him but to their people as well.

And so, as he stood in silent reverence, Karn listened intently to the melody of Draupadi's song, knowing that her words carried the power to heal and inspire all who heard them. In that moment, he made a silent vow to continue to stand by her side, supporting her in her mission to bring light and hope to their kingdom, for together, they were truly unstoppable.

After Draupadi finished her prayers, she turned with the aarti thaali in hand, her eyes widening in surprise as she saw Karn leaning against a pillar, quietly watching her. "Arya, when did you reach here? I didn't realize," she asked softly, her voice filled with warmth and affection.

"While you were drowned in your prayers, I was drowned in your melodious voice," Karn replied with a gentle smile, his eyes reflecting the love and adoration he held for his wife.

As Draupadi approached him with the aarti thaali, intending to touch his feet as a sign of respect, Karn gently stopped her, his smile softening. "At least bless me," she demanded playfully, a twinkle of mischief dancing in her eyes.

With a tender expression, Karn reached for the sindoor, his touch light as he applied it to her hairline. "Be happy always," he whispered softly, his voice filled with sincerity and love.

Returning his smile, Draupadi offered him the prasaad, a gesture of love and devotion. Karn accepted it gratefully, taking a piece and feeding it to her in return, their actions speaking volumes of the deep bond and affection they shared.

And as they stood together in the sacred space of the Devi temple, their hearts entwined in a silent dance of love and devotion, Karn and Draupadi knew that no matter what trials lay ahead, they would face them together, united in their unwavering love for each other.

After spending some time in the sacred space of the Devi temple, Karn and Draupadi eventually made their way back to their chamber. Draupadi, ever the dutiful wife, gently reminded Karn to get ready for breakfast as she quickly prepared herself for the day ahead.

With practiced efficiency, Draupadi's handmaidens braided her long, thick hair and adorned it with golden pins, the metallic accents glinting in the soft morning light. They worked with precision and care, weaving intricate patterns into her hair that spoke of her royal status and beauty.

Once her hair was styled to perfection, Draupadi began to adorn herself with her jewelry, each piece carefully chosen to complement her vibrant red lehenga. The golden hues of her ornaments shimmered against the rich fabric, enhancing her natural grace and elegance.

As she fastened her necklace around her neck and slipped her bangles onto her wrists, Draupadi couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in her appearance. She knew that she was not just dressing for herself but also for Karn, wanting to present herself in the best possible light for her beloved husband.

With a final adjustment to her attire, Draupadi took one last look in the mirror, her reflection a vision of regal beauty and grace. Satisfied with her appearance, she ran towards the kitchen.

In the kitchen, Draupadi and her mother-in-law, Radha, worked side by side, their movements fluid and synchronized as they prepared the elaborate breakfast spread. Despite the differences in their backgrounds, Radha treated Draupadi with the same love and affection as she would her own daughter, and Draupadi had grown to cherish their bond deeply.

As they bustled about the kitchen, Draupadi couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for Radha's unwavering support and guidance. Turning to her with a smile, she gently asked for her blessing, bowing her head respectfully as Radha placed a hand on her head and bestowed her blessings upon her.

"Blessings be upon you, my dear daughter," Radha said softly, her voice filled with warmth and affection. "May the gods shower you with happiness and prosperity."

Grateful for her mother-in-law's kind words, Draupadi saw the her mother-in-law glanced around the kitchen, her eyes lingering on the busy maidservants who were diligently chopping vegetables and kneading dough. "I asked the maids to prepare for breakfast," she explained to Radha. "As you know Mata, I don't know what kind of breakfast arya, pithashree and you prefer, that's why I planned to make dishes as much as I can. I hope it meets everyone's tastes."

Radha smiled indulgently at Draupadi's thoughtful gesture, her heart swelling with pride for her daughter-in-law. "You are truly a gem, my dear," she replied, her voice tinged with emotion. "Your kindness and generosity know no bounds. I am certain that whatever you have prepared will be a delight for all."

Draupadi nodded respectfully. "Thank you, Mata," she said, her voice filled with sincerity. "I only wish to ensure that arya and our parents enjoy their breakfast to the fullest. It is the least I can do to express my gratitude for their love and support."

With Radha's blessing and encouragement, Draupadi continued her preparations with renewed determination, her heart filled with love and gratitude for her family. And as she worked tirelessly to create a feast fit for royalty, she knew that her efforts would not go unnoticed, for the bond she shared with Karn and his parents was one that transcended mere words, it was a bond forged in love, respect, and unwavering devotion.

As Karn entered the dining hall, he was greeted by a sight that filled him with admiration and surprise. There, before him, Draupadi and his mother were busy arranging a lavish spread of food, far more elaborate than their usual breakfast fare. The table was adorned with an array of dishes, each one carefully prepared and presented with the utmost care.

Karn couldn't help but marvel at the sight, wondering how Draupadi had managed to prepare such a feast in such a short period of time. The variety of dishes spoke of her skill and dedication, each one a testament to her culinary prowess and attention to detail.

With a smile, Karn approached the table, his heart swelling with pride for his wife. "This is truly impressive," he remarked, his voice filled with admiration. "How did you manage to prepare all of this in such a short time?" he asked Draupadi, looking straight into her eyes.

Draupadi returned his smile, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "It was nothing, Arya," she replied modestly, her tone betraying a hint of mischief. "I simply wanted to surprise my parents with a special breakfast this morning."

Karn left a chuckle, "Yeah, your parents!!!" the sarcastic tone dripped, his parents laughed hearty. As Karn took his seat at the table, he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the woman before him. Draupadi's thoughtfulness and generosity never ceased to amaze him, and he knew that he was truly blessed to have her as his wife.

And so, as they sat down to enjoy the sumptuous meal together, Karn couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. In Draupadi's presence, he knew that he was home, surrounded by love and warmth, and he couldn't imagine a better way to start the day than with her by his side. At the head of the table, he noticed his father, Adhirath, sitting with a smile of approval, his presence adding to the sense of familial warmth and unity that filled the room.

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Comment your thoughts about this chapter! Goodnight guys (=^.^=)