Tara's eyes softened as she acknowledged Karna's understanding and respect for her choices. "Thank you, Angraj Karna. Your willingness to consider my feelings in this matter is appreciated."
Sugriva, who had been observing the exchange, spoke with a sense of resolution. "It is clear that the events surrounding Vali's return and the promise made by Angraj Karna hold great significance for our kingdom and for Tara herself. We must approach this matter with care and wisdom."
He then turned to Karna. "Angraj Karna, you have presented us with a most extraordinary tale and a relic that was once Vali's. We must deliberate on the best course of action for the kingdom of Kishkindha and for Tara. In the meantime, you and your companion are welcome to stay as guests within our palace."
Karna nodded in acknowledgment, grateful for Sugriva's willingness to consider the complexities of the situation. "I appreciate your hospitality, King Sugriva. We shall await your decision and assist in any way we can."
***
[After some days]
The woman, Tara, found solace in the tranquil garden of Kishkindha's palace. The beauty of the natural surroundings and the serenity of the forest provided a peaceful retreat where she could contemplate her thoughts and emotions.
As she sat by the clear pond, the soft melodies of her humming filled the air, harmonizing with the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant songs of birds. Tara's dark eyes gazed into the crystalline waters, and her reflection stared back at her, mirroring the complexity of her feelings.
The past few days had been a whirlwind of emotions and revelations. The return of Vali's mace, the unexpected presence of Angraj Karna, and the promise made by Vali had reopened wounds that she had thought had healed with time.
Tara had always been a woman of great strength and resilience, but the circumstances surrounding her former husband's return and the prospect of a new marriage weighed heavily on her heart.
She sighed softly, her fingers trailing through the pond's clear waters, causing ripples to form and distort her reflection. Tara couldn't help but recall the days of her past, her marriage to Vali, and the challenges they had faced together. Vali had been a warrior of great renown, and his reign as king had been marked by both triumphs and conflicts.
"Vali," Tara whispered his name, her voice carrying a mixture of nostalgia and sadness. She knew that his return from death was nothing short of miraculous and that it held significance not only for her but also for the kingdom of Kishkindha.
As Tara continued to contemplate her decision, she was aware of the weight of her choice and the impact it could have on her future and the kingdom of Kishkindha.
She had summoned the person who was at the center of this decision, the one she was considering marrying, and now she awaited his arrival in the serene garden.
Moments later, Angraj Karna entered the garden with a respectful and composed demeanor. He had been informed of Tara's request to meet, and he approached her with a sense of readiness to engage in a significant conversation.
Tara turned her gaze toward Karna as he approached, and there was a mixture of emotions in her dark eyes. Her past with Vali, the promise made by Karna, and her own hopes for the future weighed heavily on her as she began to speak.
"Angraj Karn-"
"Karna,"
"Huh~"
"Call me Karna, Angraj Karna can be a mouthful at times hehe~"
Tara's lips curved into a small smile in response to Karna's words. The gesture conveyed a sense of warmth and familiarity that eased the tension in the air.
"Very well, Karna," Tara replied, her voice carrying a softer tone. "Thank you for respecting my wishes."
Karna inclined his head in acknowledgment. "Of course, Tara. I am here to listen and to understand your thoughts and feelings."
Tara took a deep breath, her eyes searching Karna's for a moment before she began to speak. "The past few days have been a whirlwind, and I find myself at a crossroads. The promise you made to Vali and the circumstances surrounding his return... they are deeply intertwined with my past."
Karna nodded, his gaze was unwavering and empathetic. "I understand that, Tara. The events that have unfolded have brought about complex emotions and decisions."
Tara continued, her voice steady, "I must admit that when you first arrived, I felt a mixture of emotions, including apprehension and uncertainty. But I have also seen your respect for my choices and your genuine desire to understand and support me."
Karna listened attentively, his golden eyes focused on Tara's words. He knew that the decision before her was not one to be taken lightly, and he valued her honesty in sharing her feelings.
Tara took another moment to gather her thoughts before continuing. "Karna, I have made my decision but before that, I have a question I want to ask you and you have to answer that with truth."
Karna regarded Tara with a sense of anticipation, ready to answer her question and honor her decision. He understood the significance of this moment and was prepared to be open and sincere in his response.
"Please, Tara, ask your question," Karna said, his voice gentle and encouraging.
Tara took a deep breath, her dark eyes locking onto Karna's golden ones. "The promise you made to Vali involved the idea of me becoming your wife. Is that still your intention, and do you still wish for us to be wed?"
Karna paused for a moment, considering his response carefully. He knew that this question held immense weight, and he wanted to be absolutely clear in his answer.
"Tara," Karna began, "when I made that promise to Vali, it was under unique circumstances, and I understood the importance of protecting you as Vali had wished. However, I want you to know that my intention has never been to force you into a marriage you do not desire. Your happiness and well-being are paramount to me."
He continued, "I respect your decision, whatever it may be, and I will honor it without hesitation. If you wish for us to be wed, I will do so with the utmost sincerity and commitment. But if you choose otherwise, I will stand by your choice and continue to support and protect you as Vali had asked."
Tara's gaze softened as she listened to Karna's sincere response. His words carried a depth of understanding and respect that touched her heart. She appreciated his honesty and his willingness to prioritize her happiness above all else.
"Karna," Tara spoke, her voice filled with gratitude, "your response means a great deal to me. You have shown me kindness and respect throughout these challenging days, and for that, I am thankful."
She then met his gaze with a sense of resolution. "My decision is this: I wish for us to marry... But before that-"
Before Tara could finish her sentence, Karna's golden eyes reflected a mix of anticipation and understanding. He knew that her decision to marry was significant, and he awaited the completion of her thought.
"Before that," Tara continued, her voice steady, "I want our union to be built on a foundation of understanding, trust, and the opportunity for us to truly know each other. I do not wish for a marriage that is merely the fulfillment of a promise but one that is a choice made by both of us, based on genuine connection and affection."
Karna nodded in agreement, his expression sincere. "I wholeheartedly respect your wishes, Tara. Our union should indeed be a choice made by both of us, one founded on mutual respect and affection. I am willing to take the time to build that connection with you and to ensure that our marriage is a bond of genuine love and understanding."
Tara's smile widened as she heard Karna's affirmation. She appreciated his commitment to their future together and the patience he was willing to extend. "Thank you, Karna. Your understanding and willingness to take this journey with me mean a great deal."
"..."
"Do you want something, Tara?"
Tara's face turned red from blush as she hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I... I was wondering if I could get a h..."
"Huh~ I didn't catch it."
Tara's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she struggled to voice her request. She took a deep breath to gather her courage before trying again. "I was wondering if I could get a hug, Karna."
Karna, who had been attentive and respectful throughout their conversation, couldn't help but smile warmly at Tara's shy request. He understood the significance of this simple gesture and the comfort it could provide.
"Of course, Tara," Karna replied with a gentle and reassuring tone. He extended his arms, inviting her to embrace him if she wished.
Tara, feeling a mixture of emotions, moved closer to Karna and wrapped her arms around him in a warm and affectionate hug. Karna reciprocated the embrace, holding her gently and offering her a sense of comfort and reassurance.
At that moment she felt like a warm blanket wrapped around her heart, and the weight of the past and the uncertainties of the future seemed to momentarily fade away. In Karna's embrace, she found a home and a sense of protection that she didn't feel in life.
In that tender embrace, Tara felt a sense of security and warmth that enveloped her like a protective cocoon. The worries and uncertainties that had plagued her heart seemed to melt away, replaced by a feeling of belonging and peace.