The Fateful Evening Part l

Part title

Panchali thought it is a dream only. Arjun and herself away from Rajbhavan's noise and kolahal,in the middle of Yamuna it must be a dream . She closed her eyes and murmured. Arjun, I feel it is a dream. How is it possible for me to be here,?Her voice sounded unsure of her present state. Arjun felt sorry for her,she is  now in a state where there is no scope for this kind of outing,or a different kind of setting . She is the Maharani ,an expert at handling any matter related to financial matters,a Bahu who single handedly carries the Harem responsibilities and above all attends to every need of his mother. He never saw the other bahus involve in these things including his own wife Subhadra. So it is not a surprise that His Krishnaa is considering it a dream where as such outings and enjoyment is so common for others. He and Subhadra enjoyed so many nights like this in Dwaraka ,Draupadi could not even open her eyes lest her dream may disappear and she will be in her own chamber. Arjun understood her state and took her in his arms possessively.He is not against her involving in the matters of state. He admires her talent and knows her commitment. But he feels it is his duty to see to it that she also should enjoy the thrill of youth and whatever limited period they may spend together,he wanted to make it special and memorable. He took her inside the boat where a beautiful bed of jasmines is waiting for them. The moonlight is showering on the flowers making the atmosphere filled with romantic splendour. Arjun whispered in her ears. Open your eyes and feel the bliss. This is not a dream.Panchali opened her lotus eyes and fondly gazed into his hazel eyes. She felt the shower of moonlight,the smoothness of jasmines under her slender body and the music of Yamuna waters and above all her beloved husband by her side,anxious to carry her into a world of passion and bliss. She sat up and took his face in her beautiful palms and passionately kissed on his eyes. Arjun made her lie down and asked, Is my queen pleased with my hard work? I am always enslaved to you my love ..He said in a  husky voice. Panchali smiled with pleasure. I am enamoured by you not now Arjun,the moment I saw you get up and approach the Fish target. And this is the night I always cherish in my heart.Arjun removed her earrings and necklace and made her roll sideways . He exposed her beauty to his passionate eyes and to the moonlight. Draupadi closed his eyes with her hand .Arjun warned her" no inhibitions  tonite my queen " and he hugged her as close as he can . Draupadi placed her hands round his neck and pulled him nearer and nearer. The night remained the night of nights for the eternal lovers Arjun and Krishnaa.

Mani vart is the city that the northern regions are in awe of. The city is rich grandly built and independent. It was ruled by Vidyadharas and vaidutas . They don't belong either to gods or demons. They cause headache even to Indra by disobeying his orders.People there are not generous and feel they are superior to others . There is a safe distance between Manivart and Indraprasth but it is nearer to Hastinapur. The Vidyadharas are brave but they depend more on their miraculous powers rather than valour. Very often they trouble the people of other regions who happen to pass through their land to reach Kamarup or other Himalayan regions. They make them prisoners and then convert them into labourers who have to work day and night in construction work or in any other work.

Yudhisthira received a complaint from a group of his citizens that their own people who travelled north to have a Darshan of Vindhya Vasini  Mata were not traced even after a long period. After some days again another complaint was registered that a very big group of farmers with their families went to attend a wedding and went missing. Yudhisthir discussed it in the assembly. Bheem suspected foul play. There must be the hand of some one behind this. How could that many people go missing ? He argued.
Arjun  agreed. I received message from Grand father. In Hastinapur also groups travelling by Manivarth disappeared and the number is more. Grandfather asked me to pursue the matter as early as possible. Yudhishthir is worried. Arjun,if Grandfather asked us we should not delay. Think about solving the matter.
Draupadi who attended the assembly along with Kunti curiously waited for Arjun's reply. In the meantime Bheem became impatient. Let us attack Manivarth and punish them. Otherwise we can not save people.
Arjun nodded his head.No Bhrata Bheem, We can not attack without proof. They are independent rulers. More than that they have illusional powers. Nakul interfered. Bhrata Arjun you know how to break illusions where is the problem? Arjun smiled at him. Yes Nakul,But first let us confirm their offence. Then illusions can be broken at will.
Every one laughed at his words. Yudhisthir is worried. Arjun justice should not be delayed to our innocent people. How can we confirm their misdeeds? It is not possible. Arjun replied with confidence. It is possible Eldest. I will send six of my strong officers along with ordinary soldiers in the guise of travellers. If something happens one of them will escape and give us information. I already selected them as soon as I got message from grandfather. I trained them also how to break the plan of rivals. I am sure we will get correct information within one week. They are starting tomorrow.
Bheem praised Arjun. Why did'nt you tell me before? Always hide things from me.Mata your Arjun is too smart. He commented fondly slapping on Arjun's back.
Why should I trouble you Bhrata This is a small matter. Arjun replied sheepishly.
Nakul retorted. Well done Bhrata. Otherwise Bhrata Bheem already would have reached Manivarth by now.
Bheem rolled his eyes at Nakul . Kunti smiled endearingly looking at the comradiare of her sons.She side glanced her Bahu  who is stealing glances at Arjun.Kunti sighed. Who will not fall for her third son? He is desirable to each and every one. Draupadi is no exception.
Nakul said seriously. By the way Bhrata please enquire if any Vidyadhara maiden is waiting in the wings for Bhrata Arjun. We should be prepared to welcome  her no? Draupadi tried to control her laugh looking at Arjun's embarrassed face.          
Abhimanyu entered Indraprasth with his mama Krishna and mother Subhadra. He brought so much joy to every one around. Draupadi is  mesmerised on seeing the little wonder who resembled her Arjun in every way but   Got his mother's complexion. Kunti is so elated to have the beautiful boy in her hands and said. I feel I am  holding my Phalgun in my arms. She had tears of joy rolling from her eyes.
As for Arjun he hugged his Madhav and said Welcome back.Thank you for bringing them here.
Krishna laughed mischievously and replied. I understand Parth. That is why I even overlooked Bhrata Balram's displeasure and brought your son to you. Be happy now. Arjun forgot himself and the surroundings holding his bundle of joy in his arms.