Karna's Realization [Old Version]

42. Perfidiousness

Shakuni, having indulged in a sumptuous dinner, swiftly retired to his chambers. Immediately, he issued strict orders to his soldiers, forbidding any entry by members of the royal family. He securely locked himself inside, commencing an incantation of dark spells that propelled him directly towards the resplendent Hastinapur palace.

With unwavering determination, he traversed the corridors to his adversary's quarters. "I know you have concealed that secretive artifact within your chambers," Shakuni mused, embarking on an ardent search for the artifact in Karna's room.

After three hours of relentless toil, he finally unearthed it, wasting no time in obliterating the device. As a consequence, the mystical barriers protecting Hastinapur were shattered, which Karna sensed upon reaching the culmination of his penance.

Shakuni, his laughter evincing a touch of madness, hastened towards his clandestine sanctuary. Without delay, he initiated an elaborate sacrificial ritual, intending to subjugate the minds of Bhishma's grandchildren. He concluded his machinations and awaited Pandavas inevitable misstep. He yearned for them to inflict the most profound humiliation upon Duryodhana, eagerly anticipating the opportune moment to materialize.

From the morning, a sense of unease had settled upon Duryodhana, Dushasan, Ashwathama, Bheem, Arjun, Nakul, and Sahadeva. A severe headache plagued their minds, yet they chose to conceal their suffering from others.

Madirakshi readied herself, urging her children to prepare as well, as she planned her departure for Ayodhya. She informed everyone that her journey would lead her to Anga, but in reality, she set forth towards Ayodhya, carrying a distinctive sac bag that stood apart from the rest.

Without wasting a single moment, she swiftly embarked on her husband's chariot, accompanied by her children and the enigmatic sac bag. Departing expeditiously, she hastened towards Ayodhya. Shon and Dushala, too, joined Madirakshi in her journey.

In the afternoon, the elders of Hastinapur departed for their respective kingdoms. Bhanumati, Amrita, and Meenakshi accompanied them, leaving Shakuni, Duryodhana, Dushasana, and Ashwathama behind, destined to remain in Indraprastha for the subsequent fortnight.

Shakuni reveled in his satisfaction, fully aware that within a week, his nephew and his friend's minds would be swayed, turning them once again into pawns within his grand scheme.

And so, a week swiftly passed, as predicted. All three friends now harbored a deep-seated envy toward the Pandavas and their grand Rajsuya yagya.

Krishna and Balarama, too, resided in Indraprastha—an unwelcome presence to Shakuni, for he deemed them formidable obstacles to his master plan. Thus, he eagerly awaited their departure to their own kingdom.

Ashwathama paced restlessly within his chamber, engrossed in deep contemplation. Soon, Shakuni arrived and inquired, "Why are you alone today?"

"Come, Uncle," Ashwathama beckoned.