The Other Princess

Return

Four years had passed, and the palace of Hastinapur buzzed with anticipation. Samyukta, now fourteen, had grown into a poised young woman, her graceful demeanour reflecting the maturity that came with the passing years. The atmosphere in the palace was electric, with everyone preparing for the return of the Pandavas and Kauravas after their long years of training at the Gurukul.

Dushala, Samyukta's cousin, was particularly excited, her infectious enthusiasm filling the air. She had spent the last few days chattering endlessly about how much her brothers would have changed, how strong and skilled they would be. Samyukta couldn't help but share in her excitement, though her thoughts were often with her dear friends among the Pandavas, especially Yudhishthira and Arjuna, who had always been kind to her.

Princess Kunti, with her characteristic warmth and care, was busy in the kitchen, preparing ladoos and other sweets for her sons. She had insisted on making them herself, a mother's way of welcoming back her children after such a long absence. The aroma of freshly made sweets wafted through the corridors, adding to the festive atmosphere.

In another part of the palace, Queen Gandhari was advising on the decorations. She had instructed the maids to adorn every pillar and corner with little clay lamps and flowers. The soft glow of the lamps and the delicate scent of flowers created a serene ambience, a stark contrast to the nervous excitement that buzzed beneath the surface.

As the final preparations were being made, a messenger arrived with urgent news that rippled through the palace like a shockwave. The Pandavas, it was said, had captured and arrested King Drupada of Panchala. This unexpected turn of events sent a murmur of surprise and admiration through the courtiers and servants alike.

The story quickly spread: Drona, the revered teacher of the princes, had asked for Drupada's defeat and capture as his gurudakshina. The Kauravas, eager to prove their mettle, had led the first attack on Drupada, but the seasoned king had easily defeated them. Then came the Pandavas, led by Arjuna, who succeeded where the others had failed. They captured Drupada, binding him in ropes and presenting him before Drona.

But the tale didn't end there. Upon Drupada's request, Drona agreed to a truce, releasing the captured king and even agreeing to divide the kingdom of Panchala. Half of it was returned to Drupada, while the other half was kept by Drona. This act of both strength and diplomacy added to the growing legend of the Pandavas, especially Arjuna, whose name was now spoken with awe and admiration throughout the palace.

Samyukta couldn't help but smile as she listened to the courtiers recount the heroic deeds of the Pandavas. The tales of Arjuna's bravery filled her with pride for her cousin. The anticipation of their return grew stronger within her. The moment she had been waiting for all day was finally here.

Grandsire Bhishma, his voice deep and resonant, announced the arrival of the Pandavas and Kauravas. The palace seemed to hold its breath for a moment, the air thick with expectation. Samyukta, who had been sitting at her dressing table, braiding her long, dark hair, felt her heart skip a beat. The time had come.

Without a second thought, she stood from her stool, her braid forgotten, and ran towards the main entrance of the palace. The corridors blurred as she sped past them, her excitement propelling her forward. She could hear the commotion outside, the sound of hooves, the cheers of the crowd, and the distant call of trumpets announcing the royal return.

As she reached the grand entrance, she saw the courtyard filled with people. The entire palace staff, along with the royal family, had gathered to welcome the young princes. The golden chariots of the Pandavas and Kauravas were visible at a distance, their bright banners fluttering in the wind.

Samyukta squeezed through the crowd until she found a spot near the front, her breath coming in quick bursts from the run. She could barely contain her excitement as the chariots drew closer. The first to step out was Duryodhana, tall and imposing, his expression as proud as ever. He was followed by his brothers, each one greeted with a mix of applause and awe by the assembled courtiers and servants.