Draupadi opened her eyes to the shifting hues of the evening sky, a canvas painted in shades of purple and pink, tinged with the fading light of the setting sun. Despite the breathtaking beauty before her, a faint pang of loneliness tugged at her heart as she realized Karn was not by her side.

She sighed softly, her thoughts drifting to the man she loved with every fiber of her being. Karn's unwavering dedication and tireless commitment to his duties never ceased to amaze her. Even in moments of respite, his mind was consumed by the weight of responsibility that rested upon his shoulders.

As she rose from her bed and made her way to the window, Draupadi found herself lost in contemplation. How busy must Karn be, she wondered, to remain absent even now, when the day had begun to wane? The thought of him toiling away in service of their kingdom filled her with a mixture of pride and concern.

With a resigned smile, Draupadi turned her gaze back to the ever-changing sky, finding solace in its tranquil beauty. 

As Draupadi lost herself in the ethereal beauty of the sky, her thoughts scattered like clouds drifting across the horizon. But the gentle knock on her chamber door pulled her back to the present, accompanied by the soft voices of her maids.

"It's time for your bath, Princess," they informed her, their words breaking through the tranquility of the evening. With a nod of acknowledgment, Draupadi followed her attendants to the snanagar, the bathing chamber adorned with fragrant flowers and flickering candles.

Stepping into the warm embrace of the water, Draupadi felt the cares of the day melt away, replaced by a sense of serenity and renewal. Her maids attended to her with gentle hands, pouring milk infused with the scent of sandalwood over her skin and adorning her hair with aromatic oils and essence of flowers.

After the long bath, Draupadi emerged from the water, her skin glowing with a radiant luminosity. She dressed herself in a simple yet elegant baby blue lehenga, its silver border gleaming in the soft light of the chamber. The odhni she draped over her shoulders matched the hue of her attire, its semi-transparent fabric adding a touch of ethereal grace to her appearance.

With the assistance of her maids, Draupadi adorned herself with auspicious jewelry, each piece shimmering with an inner radiance. A long pearly chain encircled her neck, its lustrous pearls reflecting the flickering candlelight. Her hair, braided loosely in the traditional style, cascaded down her back like a cascade of silk, adorned with jasmine flowers arranged in a delicate garland.

Even without heavy makeover and jewelries, Draupadi's natural beauty shone like a beacon, her features illuminated by an inner glow that transcended mere mortal elegance. 

"Princess, you look absolutely radiant," one of the maids exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "Yes, like a goddess descended from the heavens," another chimed in, her words echoing the sentiments of them all.

"You all telling this to me from the first day," said Draupadi  to her maids from Panchal.

"Yet this glow is different Princess....... Nope, Maharani!" mentioned Keerthi with an endless giggle.

Draupadi couldn't help it as her cheeks turned into crimson in no time. She smiled at their words, grateful for their kind compliments. Their praise was like a balm to her soul, lifting her spirits and filling her heart with a sense of joy and contentment.

"Thank you, my dear friends," she replied warmly, her voice tinged with humility. "Your efforts have made me feel truly blessed."

"Don't fool us with your thanks Princess! Tell us what's the reason behind the sudden glow?," her maids made her situation vulnarable to the end.

With laughter still bubbling in the air from their light-hearted exchange, Draupadi's maids escorted her to the opulent dining hall where her in-law waited for her and their son. Radha made the dinner for her small family. The aroma of fragrant spices and savory dishes wafted through the air, enticing her senses and stirring everyone's appetite.

As Draupadi entered the dining hall, she was met with warm smiles and affectionate embraces from her in-laws, Adhirath and Radha. Their presence filled her with a sense of belonging, reminding her of the love and acceptance she had found within their family.

"Blessings upon you, my dear daughter," Adhirath and Radha said in unison, placing a gentle hand on Draupadi's head as she touched their feet. 

"You look resplendent tonight like a vision of grace and beauty," Radha said, her eyes shining with maternal pride.

Draupadi's heart swelled with gratitude at their kind words, and she bowed her head in acknowledgment of their blessings. As she took her seat at the head of the table, she couldn't help but notice the empty chair beside her, meant for her beloved husband Karn.

Her expression must have betrayed her thoughts, for Radha reached out to comfort her. "He will be back soon, putri," she said, her voice filled with reassurance. "Do not worry yourself overmuch."

With a grateful smile, Draupadi nodded, finding solace in Radha's words. As they settled into conversation, the atmosphere around the table grew lively, filled with the sound of laughter and camaraderie.

But as the meal progressed and Karn's absence became more pronounced, Draupadi's concern deepened. When her in-laws suggested they begin eating, she politely declined, her gaze lingering on the empty chair beside her.

"I will wait for Arya," she said softly, her voice tinged with determination.

Her in-laws exchanged a knowing glance, their expressions softening with understanding. They had witnessed firsthand the depth of Draupadi's love for Karn, and they admired her steadfast devotion.

"Very well, my dear," Adhirath said, his voice filled with respect. "We will wait with you."

As the conversation flowed effortlessly among them, laughter punctuating the air like musical notes, the sound of the door opening drew everyone's attention. Karn entered the room, his hair still damp from a recent bath, droplets glistening like tiny jewels in the soft candlelight.

Draupadi's heart skipped a beat at the sight of him, a rush of warmth flooding her chest. She rose from her seat, a smile lighting up her face as she greeted him.

"Finally the King is here," Adhirath said in sarcastic tone,  "We've been waiting for you." said his mother.

Karn offered a sheepish smile in return, his cheeks tinged with color. "I apologize for making you all wait," he said, his voice laced with sincerity. "I had some urgent matters to attend to."

Radha, ever the doting mother, scolded him affectionately like a small child. "You should have dried your hair properly, beta," she chided, her tone gentle yet firm. "You'll catch a cold if you're not careful."

Karn chuckled at her words, a playful glint in his eyes. "I'm not a kid anymore, Mata," he protested, though there was a hint of amusement in his voice.

Radha simply shook her head fondly, her expression softening with maternal affection. "You'll always be my little boy," she said, her voice tinged with warmth.

Draupadi watched the exchange with a sense of delight, her heart swelling with love for her in-laws. In that moment, she couldn't help but feel a pang of longing for a mother's affection, a feeling she had never truly known.

But as the maid brought a towel to dry Karn's hair, she pushed aside her melancholy thoughts, focusing instead on the joyous scene unfolding before her. For in the presence of her beloved husband and cherished family, she found solace and happiness beyond measure.

With a smile, Draupadi took her seat once more, her heart overflowing with gratitude for the love that surrounded her. And as they finally began to eat.

As the aroma of the simple yet delicious home-cooked meal filled the air, Draupadi savored each bite with genuine appreciation. The flavors were unlike anything she had experienced in the palace, lacking the elaborate spices and intricate preparations she was accustomed to. But there was a warmth and comfort to the food that spoke of love and care.

Radha watched her closely, her eyes filled with concern. "Draupadi, dear, is the food to your liking?" she asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Draupadi smiled warmly in response, her gratitude shining in her eyes. "It's unlike any food I've had before, Mata," she replied honestly. "But I find it quite delightful. There's a homely charm to it that I can't help but appreciate."

Karn's reassuring smile mirrored her sentiment, his eyes alight with pride. "This is how home-cooked food by a mother works," he exclaimed, his voice brimming with excitement. "Isn't that right, Mata?"

Radha's face lit up with joy at her son's words, a tender smile playing at her lips. "Yes, beta," she affirmed, her voice filled with affection. "There's nothing quite like the love that goes into preparing a meal for one's family."

As they continued to eat, the atmosphere around the table was filled with warmth and camaraderie. Draupadi felt a sense of belonging wash over her, a feeling of being embraced by the love of her newfound family.

In that moment, she realized that home wasn't just a place it was the people who surrounded her, the love that enveloped her, and the bonds that united them all. And as she looked around the table at the faces of her loved ones, she knew that she had found her home at last.

As they sat around the dinner table, the atmosphere was filled with warmth and laughter. Draupadi felt a deep sense of contentment wash over her as she shared this intimate meal with her beloved in-laws. 

As they savored each bite, Radha's suggestion of taking a stroll in the garden after dinner was met with eager anticipation. Draupadi's eyes lit up at the prospect of enjoying the cool breeze under the starlit sky, and she readily agreed.

After the meal, as Karn and Adhirath excused themselves to discuss matters elsewhere, Draupadi and Radha made their way to the garden. The night air was crisp and invigorating, the scent of blooming flowers lingering in the air.

As they walked among the winding paths, their conversation turned to more serious matters. Draupadi couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness as Radha informed her of their impending departure the next morning.

"But, Mata," Draupadi pleaded, her voice tinged with desperation, "can't you stay a little longer? I... I don't know much about running a household, and I rely on you so much. And Arya... I don't much about him also, I need you Mata. I don't have a mother to teach all this, Mata. I... I don't know what I'll do without you."

Radha's heart went out to Draupadi, her eyes softening with compassion. She reached out and gently squeezed Draupadi's hand, offering her reassurance.

"My dear Draupadi," Radha said, her voice gentle yet firm, "you are stronger and more capable than you realize. You have already proven yourself to be a wonderful wife to Karn, and I have every confidence that you will continue to thrive, with or without our presence."

Draupadi felt a glimmer of hope ignite within her at Radha's words. She drew strength from the older woman's unwavering faith in her abilities.

"But, Mata," Draupadi insisted, her voice wavering slightly, "I... I don't know what I'll do without you. You've been like a mother to me, guiding me and supporting me every step of the way. Just in these short period of time, I understand your love and cara Mata"

Radha's eyes softened with affection as she looked at Draupadi, her heart overflowing with love for this young woman who had become like a daughter to her.

"My dear Draupadi," Radha said, her voice filled with love and tenderness, "even though we may not be physically present, know that our love and support will always be with you. You have a strength within you that is unmatched, and I have no doubt that you will overcome any obstacle that comes your way. Remember, happiness comes from within. Find joy in the love you share with Karn, and everything else will fall into place."

Draupadi nodded, her eyes shining with gratitude. In that moment, she knew that she was not alone. She had a family who loved her unconditionally, and with their support, she could face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As they continued their stroll through the garden, Draupadi felt a sense of peace settle over her. With Radha by her side, she knew that she could weather any storm and emerge stronger than ever before. And as they watched the stars twinkle overhead, Draupadi made a silent vow to cherish every moment she had with her beloved family, for their love was the truest treasure she could ever hope to possess.

As the chillness of the night breeze increased, Karn and Adhirath called Radha and Draupadi back inside, urging them to seek warmth indoors. Again, to make Draupadi feel better they promised that despite their departure, they would visit Anga frequently to ensure thier kids fine here.

After bidding goodnight to Radha and Adhirath, Karn and Draupadi made their way back to their chamber, arm in arm. The night air was crisp against their skin as they walked, the moon casting a soft glow over the palace grounds. Draupadi couldn't shake the feeling of longing that tugged at her heart. Turning to Karn, she spoke softly, her voice filled with wistfulness.

"I really wish Mata and Pitaji could stay a bit longer," she confessed, her eyes reflecting the sadness she felt at their impending departure.

Karn's expression softened as he wrapped an arm around her shoulders, drawing her close. "I understand, Draupadi," he said, his voice gentle and reassuring. "But they have important matters to attend to in Hastinapur. Duty calls, and we must respect their obligations."

Draupadi nodded, a sigh escaping her lips. Though she understood the necessity of their in-laws' departure, it didn't ease the ache of their absence.

"Draupadi," he said, his voice soft and comforting, "I understand how much you adore Mata and Pitaji. But remember, they are my parents. Don't go trying to become their favorite. That title is already taken by me."

His words were playful, filled with a hint of childish mischief that caught Draupadi off guard. She couldn't help but burst into laughter at his lighthearted teasing, the sound echoing through the palace corridors like music. Karn grinned at her reaction, his heart swelling with love for this woman who brought so much joy into his life.

With a tender smile, Karn opened the door to their chamber, ushering Draupadi inside. Once settled down, With a gentle touch, Draupadi began to remove the intricate jewelry adorning her neck and wrists, setting each piece aside with care.

As Draupadi's long hair cascaded down her back in a silky waterfall, she released a relieved sigh, the tension of the day melting away with each passing moment. With practiced ease, she changed into a comfortable tunic, the soft fabric draping gently against her skin.

Karn approached her, his touch light as he brushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "You look beautiful, priye," he murmured, his voice filled with admiration.

Draupadi smiled up at him, her eyes reflecting the love and gratitude she felt. "I just want to feel comfortable as I prepare for sleep." she replied softly.

As they settled into bed, Karn wrapped his arms around Draupadi, pulling her close in a gentle embrace. The cool breeze from outside wafted through the open windows, causing them to snuggle closer to each other for warmth. The natural scent of Draupadi's hair, infused with the fragrance of new bloom blue lotus, mingled with the soft aroma of scented candles that filled their chamber, creating an intoxicating atmosphere of romance and intimacy.

With their bodies entwined, they spooned together, fitting perfectly into each other's embrace. Karn pressed soft kisses along the nape of Draupadi's neck, sending shivers of pleasure down her spine. She melted into his touch, her heart fluttering with love and desire for the man who held her so tenderly.

In the soft glow of candlelight, their whispered words of affection and the gentle caress of their fingertips against each other's skin filled the air. Time seemed to stand still as they lost themselves in the beauty of the moment, the outside world fading away as they surrendered to the warmth of their love.

As they lay intertwined in each other's arms, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the night and the sweet scent of blossoms, Draupadi felt a sense of peace wash over her. In Karn's embrace, she found solace and security, knowing that they were bound together by a love that was as eternal as the stars above.

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Comment your thoughts about this chapter! Goodnight dearssss!