Chapter 99:
The Pandavas' Multitasking
As Draupadi rested, her discomfort subsiding for the moment, the Pandavas took on the roles of caregivers and multitaskers with a blend of humor and diligence. The atmosphere in the household was bustling with activity as they juggled various responsibilities, all while maintaining their usual playful banter.
**Feeding the Babies:** Sahadeva and Nakula were busy feeding Prativindhya and Suthanu. Sahadeva cradled the babies gently, holding the milk bottles with utmost care, while Nakula prepared their next feed. The two exchanged amused glances as they tried to soothe the infants, their gentle teasing bringing light-hearted moments to the task.
**Managing the Kingdoms:** Meanwhile, Yudhishthira and Bheema handled the affairs of the kingdoms. Yudhishthira addressed matters of state with his characteristic calm and wisdom, while Bheema, ever the energetic one, ensured that everything ran smoothly with his robust approach. Despite the weight of responsibility, they managed to find moments to tease Draupadi about her cravings.
**Draupadi’s Cravings:** Draupadi's cravings had taken a prominent place in their daily routine. She often asked for cherries, mangoes, and tamarind, and the Pandavas made sure to fulfill her requests promptly. They joked about their new roles as "fruit fetchers" and "craving curers," making light of the situation to keep Draupadi's spirits high.
**Storytelling and Lullabies:** As Draupadi rested, Arjuna took it upon himself to tell stories to the babies. His voice, rich and soothing, carried tales of valor and adventure. The Pandavas also took turns singing lullabies to the infants, their voices blending in harmonious tunes that calmed the babies and brought a serene atmosphere to the room.
**Council Meetings:** Draupadi, though resting, occasionally participated in council meetings, offering her insights and guidance. The Pandavas, ever attentive, made sure to involve her in discussions while accommodating her need for rest.
**Household Chores:** The daily chores were handled with surprising efficiency. The Pandavas washed dresses, plates, and cooked meals, their teamwork ensuring that everything was in order. They humorously complained about the "overwhelming" tasks, yet their smiles betrayed their genuine enjoyment of their roles.
**Reading and Combing Hair:** Yudhishthira took time to read Draupadi’s favorite books to her, his voice providing both comfort and entertainment. Meanwhile, Nakula and Sahadeva were in charge of combing her hair, making sure it was done on time to keep her looking regal despite her current condition.
**Handling Draupadi’s Anger:** Draupadi’s occasional bursts of anger, a byproduct of her pregnancy, were met with a mix of patience and humor. The Pandavas teased her about her fiery temperament, but they handled her outbursts with understanding, often turning her anger into a playful game.
As the day progressed, the Pandavas continued their multitasking with a mix of efficiency and affection. Their playful teasing and supportive actions helped make Draupadi's pregnancy more bearable, and their shared laughter and camaraderie created a warm, loving environment.
The household was a whirlwind of activity, but the Pandavas managed it all with grace, proving that love and dedication could make even the most challenging tasks enjoyable.
