The Fateful Evening part 2

Part 66

Krishna sat beside Draupadi while Arjun walked to the window and immersed in his own thoughts. Krishna started in his captivating tone that makes the listeners spellbound and make them submit before him for the sheer reasoning with which he will deliver his point of view. ' Krishnaa you know I never take decisions with biased mindset. I give importance to the welfare of Aryavarth ,means people who are the members of the glorious land. The dispute is between Pandavas and Kauravas. But it effected the balance of Aryavarth.Gradually it converted into a dispute between justice and injustice.Except Bhrata Balaram no one remained neutral.
Good natured kings like Dhrishtaketu and Chekitan along with Virat supported us while Bhagadutt,Jayathrath and others are supporting Kauravas. So before taking a decision I am forced to think about the safety of those who are jumping into the Frey without having any personal benefit.
Krishnaa ,Yudhishtir also thought the same way and proposed compromise with them.The five cities he asked is the outcome of such anguish to stop mass destruction in general and loss of our own people in particular. Bheem and Parth understood this and voiced their support."
Panchali looked into his lotus eyes.She asked straightly.' So no importance is given to my insult at Dice Game.For Eldest and his brothers Draupadi's insult is a matter of past that is to be forgotten by all means." Krishna smiled at her accusation and Arjun's fingers curled into his fists.Draupadi observed that and understood his feelings.
Krishna continued.' Panchali,don't think it is an insult done to an individual. It is a slap on the respect of all women who felt the shock of their lives when they heard the way queen of Indraprasth met with dishonour from her own people.That day the whole nation bent their heads and swore to take revenge against the brutality of the Kauravas.But still as I said we should keep the welfare of others as our prime motive before we take any drastic step."

Panchali gazed into his lotus eyes that conveyed to her his lifelong support and concern for them.Krishna slowly ascertained looking deeply into her eyes.' Rest assured Sakhi,We all know Duryothan will never agree for peace proposal.That makes us stand firm in our resolve to fight and win our kingdom back.But as I said earlier I will try best to avoid war. Don't ever think that we won't feel for your insult.I tell you Whoever misbehaves with  a married lady should endure the result of their action.I promise Kalyani ,Bheem and Parth will avenge your insult. There are no two ways about it."
Krishna got up ,went to Arjun, pressed his shoulder and glanced meaningfully . He then placed his hand on Panchali's head and left. Draupadi untied her hair and let it hang down her hips. She took the thick black mass of hair in her  hand and reminisced the horrible experience,she being dragged by Dussasan forcibly clutching her hair ...She shivered at the memory. The corners of her eye lotuses became reddish as anger and fury overpowered her soul and body.Arjun approached her from behind ,hugged her and promised.' You will see the culprits punished. Don't be sad. Don't think we dont care for you."
Panchali tried to get herself out of his grip but in vain.She still is doubtful of his intention or their intention to fight war.Krishna's words gave her solace to some extent but she still is not sure . Arjun threw back  the curls from her forehead and said in a pacifying tone.' Speak up Krishnaa Don't suppress yourself.What can I do to make you believe that all of us are seriously into fighting war if they refuse to oblige. Believe me Krishnaa."
Panchali looked deep into his eyes and said firmly.' Arjun,I don't want to see any proofs regarding your intention. I am hurt at the way you are keeping Duryothan on pedestal and begging him for our rightful property.Dont misunderstand me thinking that I am revengeful and unrelenting. Ofcourse I feel bad whenever I see or touch my hair that was...Panchali could not finish her line as her voice is choked.
Arjun had moisture in his eyes. He took her hair in his hands and passionately kissed part by part . He then kissed on her eyes and stopped the tears that were restricted there by swallowing them . He made her sit on the couch rounded her shoulders and keeping her closer to him started in his husky voice.' Krishnaa I might have  asked Madhav to try for peace but I know Duryothan will never budge. I believe war is round the corner.Otherwise why would I take trouble and hold the training camp? Dhrisht and myself already started discussing the vyuhas to be formed in war.

Pitamah will arrange vyuhas for them. By my misfortune I have to counter his vyuhas.Still I am bound by my duty.Bhrata Bheem started rigorous physical exercises to bring himself in shape. The countdown for collection of soldiers started. Madhav told me not to stop anything even though he is going for peace trials.But since military secrets should not be publicised we are maintaining a low profile. If you want I will take you early in the morning to the training camp." Panchali placed her hand on his lips. She kept her head on his heart listening to his heart beat .She understood his sincerity and he felt the pain of her heart.
Arjun held her tight posessively making a promise unto himself.' Come what may he won't let her down." ...
Krishna started for Hastinapur along with Satyaki and his prominent officers. Arjun warned Satyaki.' Be alert,Don't believe Duryothan, Don't let Madhav go alone. I have my own doubts regarding Duryothan's intentions."

Krishna heard him and laughed.' Parth don't worry, If he does something I will teach him a lesson." Arjun smiled and said,' I know you don't need protection. Still I can't help it." Krishna hugged him close and promised , I will return as soon as possible."
As he reached Kusasthal,he met Sage Narad,Kanva and Jamadagni who welcomed him heartfully.Narad requested.' Lord,we would like to be at Hastinapur when you meet Dhritarashtr.We also will try to inject sensibility in his foolish mind." Krishna accepted their request and made them gratified. He camped at Vrikaprasth and sent messengers to Dhritarashtr that he will arrive in Hastinapur the next day.

Dhritarashtr called Duryothan and asked him to make proper arrangements to welcome Keshav. Offer him precious gifts that attract his eye,Win his heart by doing so."
Vidur retorted harshly.' King ,do you think you can lure Vaasudev with gifts? What can you offer him?do you think you have something that equals Arjun's love and devotion for his Madhav? You think Keshav will leave Arjun and join your side? Please come out of your trance. If you want to please Govind,just do whatever he suggests."

Duryothan who listened this admitted proudly.' Pitasri I am making plans to capture Krishna as a prisoner. Then Pandavas will become helpless.They will keep quiet." Dhritarashtr scolded him and warned him.' Don't attempt such sinful things.Stay away from Vaasudev."

Bhishm got angry and left the father and son.Dron also did the same.
In the morning Krishna received great welcome . After that he informed Duryothan that he will stay with Vidur and went to meet Kunti.As he touched her feet Kunti wept bitterly.' Are my sons happy? I am the unfortunate mother who is witnessing their unending troubles. And my daughter in law,the pious Panchali who always treated me with great regard,How is she?
Because of me she countered many troubles.Keshav ,my sons always followed your counsel.But now they are overpowered by the cruel fate. Whom shall I blame? I can't blame Duryothan even as he is Gandhari Didi's son. He is also like my sons. I think I should blame Akasavani who predicted great things at the time of  Arjun's birth."