Chapter 69:
Leaving for Dwarka
The day had arrived for the Pandavas and Draupadi to travel to Dwarka for a grand function at the home of her brothers, Krishna and Balarama. The anticipation of seeing her family again filled Draupadi with joy, but as always, the Pandavas found a way to make things lively.
Draupadi stood in front of the mirror, adjusting her lightweight lehenga. She wore a single elegant necklace, a pair of delicate earrings, a nethichutti adorning her forehead, a slender waist chain, a simple nose pin, and two bangles. While her appearance was simple and graceful, it still held the elegance of a queen.
Bhima, the first to notice, raised an eyebrow playfully. "Is that all, Draupadi? A queen of Panchala wearing so little jewelry? You’ll be mistaken for a commoner!"
Arjuna grinned, joining in the teasing. "Yes, our queen, shouldn’t you be draped in gold and diamonds? This doesn’t seem fitting for the wife of five kings."
Nakula and Sahadeva exchanged amused glances. "Perhaps she’s trying to make a statement," Sahadeva said with a smirk. "A new minimalist style for royalty."
Draupadi turned to them, her eyes glinting with mischief. "Don't underestimate me," she said, smiling. "Just wait until we arrive in Dwarka. I’ll wear my tons of dresses and jewelry. You five will be carrying all of it by the end of the day!"
The Pandavas burst into laughter. Yudhishthira, ever the gentle one, chuckled and said, "We wouldn’t dare underestimate you, Draupadi. We’ll be ready for whatever you have planned."
Bhima folded his arms with a grin. "As long as you’re not expecting us to carry everything and chase after the children at the same time!"
Draupadi laughed. "Oh, I’m counting on it. You’ll see, my dear Pandavas. You may be warriors, but you’re no match for a queen and her plans!"
The Pandavas teased her all the way to their departure, but beneath the playful banter was an unspoken respect and admiration for Draupadi. She was their strength, their heart, and they knew that wherever they went, she would always shine brightest, no matter what she wore.
