𝙺𝙰𝚁𝙽𝙰 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙴𝙼𝙿𝙴𝚁𝙾𝚁

࿇ ✥ ࿇ CHAPTER-51 ࿇ ✥ ࿇

Draupadi, with a keen eye, surveyed the kings and princes seated in the sabha, feeling the weight of their gazes upon her. Despite the scrutiny, she maintained her composure, exchanging a reassuring smile with her confidante.

Her attention shifted to her father as he rose from his throne, his voice commanding the room. "I extend my warmest welcome to all who have journeyed from far-flung kingdoms to partake in my daughter's swayamvara , " he declared, his words resounding through the hall.

"As for the rules of the swayamvara ," Draupada proclaimed, drawing attention to the metallic bow positioned prominently at the center of the sabha, "it pertains to the archery contest, as many of you may have already guessed. Whoever successfully completes the task will earn the privilege of marrying my daughter ."

As Draupada concluded his announcement, murmurs of anticipation rippled through the assembled kings and princes. Eager to showcase their prowess and win the hand of Draupadi, they began to exchange glances and engage in hushed conversations .

As Drishtadyumna rose from his throne, he gracefully accepted his bow from a waiting soldier. Drawing back the string with ease, he released an arrow skyward. In a breathtaking display of skill and magic, the arrow split the air, conjuring the illusion of hundreds of intertwining serpents .

Each serpent bore eyes of various coloured gem , their mesmerizing colors shimmering in the sunlight. Upon closer inspection, one could discern intricate details—the unique pattern of scales, the subtle movement of each creature. Yet, it was the crimson-eyed serpent, marked with the emblem of Panchala , that captured the attention of the astute observers .

"The archer's aim," he proclaimed, his voice commanding attention, "shall be guided not by the serpents themselves, but by their reflections upon the surface of the pool in the center of this hall ." His words hung in the air, punctuated by the shimmering of the water below.

"The target ," Drishtadyumna continued, his gaze unwavering, "is not the entirety of the serpent, but the eye adorned with the emblem of Panchal. Each serpent bears two eyes, each adorned with a distinct gem. It is the eye marked with the symbol of Panchal that must be pierced ."

With clarity and determination, Drishtadyumna set forth the challenge, ensuring that every king and prince understood the precision required to succeed. And with his final words, he returned to his throne, leaving the sabha poised on the cusp of anticipation and resolve

The daunting task set before them cast a pall of unease over the gathered kings, their expressions betraying a mix of apprehension and disbelief. How could anyone hope to accomplish such a feat? The precision required to strike the eye of a serpent, guided by nothing but the elusive reflection upon the water's surface, seemed insurmountable .

Yudhishthir's usually composed demeanor faltered as he grappled with the enormity of the challenge. His hopes of winning the hand of the Panchal Princess wavered in the face of such an imposing task.

Bhima's formidable strength seemed to pale in comparison to the intricate precision demanded by the task at hand. Despite his desire to claim the princess as his own, doubt crept into his mind, clouding his resolve.

Nakul and Sahadev, ever aware of their limitations in the realm of archery, felt a sense of resignation settle over them. Their lack of confidence from the outset now seemed justified as they contemplated their slim chances of success.

Despite the uncertainty gripping the other kings, Arjun exuded confidence. With a serene smile, he locked eyes with the Panchal Princess, his belief in his abilities unwavering. Though the challenge was daunting, he remained steadfast in his conviction of victory .

Karna looked at Krishna as soon he heard the task he couldn't believe did his friend set a task for the Archer who should be in the league of gods and immortals , even great archers will have tough time completing the task ,  he was sure he can do it but the question did he want to do it ?

The King, frustration etched in his voice, stood up from his throne and addressed Maharaj Draupad , "Maharaj Draupad, some of us aren't skilled with bow . What are we supposed to do? And the task you've set, it's even tougher for an archer !"

Some of the kings sitting down nodded in agreement, seeing this as their opportunity to make a move to win the Panchal Princess, knowing full well that the task at hand seemed impossible to accomplish .

Draupadi's expression betrayed her worry as she glanced at her friend Krishna, who returned a reassuring smile before rising from his throne. " O esteemed kings, let this contest not be taken as an insult ," he began, his voice carrying across the assembly. "It was merely a wish of my dear friend, Draupadi, to marry the foremost archer among of Aryavart. There is honor in this aspiration. A true warrior, a Kshatriya, should not lament like a pauper. Rather, he should embody confidence and self-assurance. Yet, it seems that some among you lack faith in your own abilities ," he concluded, a playful glint in his eye .

"Now, let the swayamvar commence," declared Draupada, gesturing towards a man holding a scroll within the sabha. " An announcement shall be made by one of my attendants. As per the tradition, the assembled kings and princes are invited to come forth and demonstrate their valor ."

The attendant announced, "King Udayana of Vatsa ," With a proud smirk and a confident stride , as he rose from his throne. Moving towards the center, his gaze lingered on Draupadi with a hint of desire before attempting to lift the bow. However, tension crept onto his face as he struggled, his efforts proving futile as he grappled with the bow, unable to budge it even with both hands .

Despite continuous announcements, including those of the King of Trigarta, the Kashi King, and the Koshal King, along with many others, none could even budge the bow from its place. Defeated and humbled, they returned to their seats.

Even Yudhishthira faced failure in lifting the bow, much to everyone's surprise. However, it was Bhima and Duryodhana who managed to lift it and even tie the string. Yet, their attempts to hit the target ended in disappointment and failure .

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So how is the new contest of the suywamvar competition , i hope you all liked it but who is going to win some of you might have already guessed it's going to either Arjun or karna But for that you have to wait some more time ...... Until then bye-bye

🙏🙏🙏