The plea

                                    

                                          
Bhanumati wandered through the gardens of the Kuru palace, her heart heavy with concern for Supriya. She knew her friend had followed her into this chaos without a second thought, and the weight of that decision rested heavily on her conscience. It was time to act.
Finding Karna alone in the training grounds, focused on his practice, she approached him with determination.
"Angraj," she called softly, her voice steady yet urgent.
Karna paused and turned to her, his expression a mix of curiosity and caution. "Princess Bhanumati, what brings you here?"
Bhanumati took a deep breath, her thoughts racing as she met his gaze. "I need to speak with you about Supriya. She has sacrificed everything to be by my side, and I fear for her future."
Karna's brow furrowed slightly, unsure of where this was leading. "What do you mean?"
With resolve, Bhanumati continued, "Marry her, Angraj. I beg you. If you do not, her life will be ruined because of my choices. You have the power to change her fate, to give her the honor she deserves."
Karna's expression darkened, understanding the complexity of her request. "But I am already married to Maya. I cannot betray her trust for the sake of another."
Bhanumati's eyes shimmered with unshed tears, though her demeanor remained composed. "I know, but Supriya has given up so much for me. If you refuse, I fear she will suffer for it, and I cannot bear the thought of that. You are a man of honor, Angraj. Please consider what this means for her future."
Karna felt a tightening in his chest at the raw vulnerability in her voice. He had always respected Bhanumati, but this plea revealed a deeper connection between them. Yet, the weight of his loyalty to Maya loomed over him.
"Bhanumati," he said gently, "I understand your concern, but I must protect my marriage to Maya. It is not a decision I can make lightly. I cannot risk causing her pain."
Bhanumati held his gaze, unyielding. "Angraj, this is about more than just loyalty. Supriya deserves a chance at happiness, just as you and Maya do. Please, I am asking you to help her."
For a moment, Karna hesitated, torn between duty and the silent call for justice in her words. The tension in the air hung heavy as he considered the weight of her request.
Finally, he spoke, his voice low and serious. "If I were to even consider this, it would need to be approached with great care. Maya's feelings cannot be ignored. I will think on it, but I cannot make any promises."
Bhanumati nodded, a glimmer of hope flickering in her heart, even as she understood the complexity of his situation. "Thank you, Angraj. That is all I ask. Please, just think about it."
As she turned to leave, the uncertainty of the path ahead loomed over them both, but Bhanumati felt a sense of determination that maybe, just maybe, she could protect her friend's future.Days passed since Bhanumati's plea to Angraj Karna, and the tension in the palace grew thicker. Bhanumati remained steadfast, quietly hoping that her words had made an impact. Meanwhile, Duryodhan, ever keen on consolidating his power and influence, began to take notice of the situation unfolding around them.
One evening, while discussing strategies with Karna, Duryodhan brought up the topic of Bhanumati and Supriya. "You know, Karna," he began casually, "the princess's friend is an admirable young woman. It would be a shame to let her talents and beauty go to waste, especially now that she is connected to Bhanumati."
Karna frowned, knowing Duryodhan's intentions often leaned toward manipulation. "What are you suggesting, Yuvraj?"
"Marry her," Duryodhan said bluntly. "By making Supriya your wife, you would not only secure her future but also strengthen our ties with Bhanumati. She has shown great loyalty to her friend, and this act would earn you both respect and gratitude."
Karna's heart raced at the thought. He had not considered Duryodhan's proposition seriously, but the idea lingered. Supriya was indeed a woman of great worth, and perhaps marrying her could provide her with the safety and honor she deserved.
"Do you think Bhanumati would support this?" Karna asked, still cautious.
Duryodhan grinned, his confidence radiating. "She would have to. You are offering a chance for her friend to find happiness. It aligns with everything she has fought for. Besides, it will reflect well on you as a leader and a warrior."
Karna sighed, his thoughts swirling. "It is a considerable decision. I have to think of Maya as well."
Duryodhan waved his hand dismissively. "Maya is strong. She will understand. After all, this is not just about you; it's about the bonds we are forming, about creating a powerful alliance."
After a moment's pause, Karna nodded, feeling a sense of duty mixed with the weight of expectation. "If I were to marry Supriya, it must be done with respect and consideration for both her and Maya. I will not rush into this."
With a sense of purpose, Karna approached Bhanumati the next day. She could see the determination in his eyes and felt a surge of hope as he spoke.
"Bhanumati, after our last conversation and some reflection, I have come to a decision. I am willing to marry Supriya."
Bhanumati's heart leaped, but she quickly masked her emotions. "You truly mean it, Angraj?"
"Yes," he replied, his voice steady. "Duryodhan believes it will strengthen our bonds, and I cannot ignore the value Supriya brings. It is the least I can do to honor your plea and provide her with a secure future."
Bhanumati nodded, swallowing her excitement. "Thank you, Angraj. This means the world to me, and to Supriya."
Soon, arrangements were made for the wedding. Duryodhan, ever the strategist, ensured that the event was grand and befitting their status. The palace buzzed with anticipation, and as the day approached, Bhanumati took time to reflect on the change in their lives.