A DANCE NIGHT in Mahabharath Times

Part 1

King Drupad, the king of Panchal, had organized an event. An event where the young princes and princesses of Aryavart meet to get to know each other. King Drupad decided to host this event in his kingdom to help his newborns Draupadi and Dhristadhyum to meet the princes and princesses of Aryavart.

"Welcome! All the young princes and princesses, Welcome!" King Drupad announced standing on the front stage.

All the princes and princesses who were standing in the court looked at him. Arjun and Krishna were standing in the corner of the court both leaning on each other as Krishna placed his hand on Arjun's shoulder. Balram was standing with the Kauravas along with Karna. Subhadra was standing with Karenumati, Vijaya, and Dushala at the end of the court opposite Arjun and Krishna. Bheem and Sahdev were seated in the front row of the court while Yudhistir and Nakul stood behind them.

"I am glad that all of you have come to this event in Panchal. Me, my son Dhristadhyum, and my two daughters Shikhandi and Draupadi are grateful." He said as he motioned all three of them to come on the front stage. The three of them came forward. Dhristadhyum and Shikhandi were looking at the crowd and acknowledging everyone who was smiling at them but Draupadi only kept on her gaze on Arjun. She looked at him with utmost happiness. The only one she has heard and dreamt of is Arjun. Arjun on the other hand did not even look at her. He was talking to Krishna about something and laughing at something he said.

"I know most of you have visited many such events where many activities are conducted for getting to know more of each other. They are fun but me and Shikhandi, who is conducting this event, decided we will try something new this year." Drupad said with a huge smile. Shikhandi came forward and took over.

"We have decided to arrange a Dance Night." Shikhandi said. The crowd started murmuring. They had never heard something like this before. 

"We are going to have a dance night tomorrow evening. All the princes can ask any princess to be their partner. The princesses have the right to reject the prince but they cannot ask them to be their partner. This will make it more interesting and will also ensure that you will spend time with the person you want." Shikhandi announced to a confused crowd.

"My sister and brother will also take part in this event. The proposals can start after lunch. I hope everyone has fun and I also hope everyone finds  the partner they want." Shikhandi said as she winked. Everyone laughed and started dispersing. They were all murmuring about the dance and the partner they will propose.

Everyone left the hall and the only ones left are Shikhandi, Draupadi, Dhristadhyum, and King Drupad.

"I have some military affairs to check. I will talk to you all later." Drupad said as he left the court.

"Shikhandi didi, will Prince Arjun ask me to be his partner?" Draupadi asked excitedly. Before Shikhandi could answer Draupadi said proudly, "Obviously he will. Who else will he ask? He is my Prince and will ask me."

Shikhandi looked at her worriedly. She is scared about her sister's obsession with Prince Arjun. Till now it was only her dreams but if today her dreams do not become true, she will be heartbroken.

"Yes, he will, Draupadi." Shikhandi said unwillingly shocking Dhristadhyum as she put up a fake smile.

Draupadi smiled brightly. She blushed at the thought of Arjun asking her for the dance tomorrow.

"I have to go get ready. I have to look my best when Prince Arjun asks me for the dance today." Draupadi said hurriedly as she slightly lifted her dress to run to her room without looking back at Shikhandi and Dhristadhyum.

Shikhandi and Dhristadhyum stood there quietly waiting for Draupadi to leave. As soon as she left, Dhristadhyum looked at Shikhandi with a frown on his face.