The Other Princess

Trouble

The night before Ashwaththama and Duryodhana's anticipated arrival in Panchala, Samyukta found herself wandering the dimly lit corridor, lost in her thoughts. The tension about tomorrow's confrontation was heavy in her mind. As she turned a corner, she suddenly felt strong arms lift her off the ground. A surprised gasp escaped her lips, but her smile widened when she realized it was her husband.

Dhrishtadyumna, with an affectionate glint in his eyes, effortlessly carried her in a bridal style towards his grand chambers. "You need to stop worrying so much," he teased as he carried her. "I'm not letting you brood all night."

He carefully placed her on his large, lavish bed, and she couldn't help but smile as he gently untied her hair, letting it cascade over her shoulders. She leaned into him as he settled her head against his lap. The warmth of his body against hers was comforting, easing some of the anxiety she had carried throughout the day.

"Tell me what's troubling you," he said softly, his fingers running gently through her hair. His tone was gentle but knowing. "It's Duryodhan, right?"

Samyukta let out a small laugh, but there was a hint of weariness in it. "How did you know?" she asked, genuinely curious at how easily he could read her now.

Dhrishtadyumna chuckled, his hand softly brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "You're easy to read these days," he said, his voice tender. "I know you too well now."

Samyukta sighed, relaxing into his lap, but her brow still furrowed slightly as her mind returned to the imminent arrival of Ashwaththama and Duryodhana. "I'm just thinking about what kind of drama will unfold tomorrow with Duryodhana coming here with Ashwaththama," she admitted, her voice soft but strained. "There's always chaos when Duryodhana is involved."

Dhrishtadyumna shook his head. "Let them come," he said, his voice firm yet reassuring. "I don't care what they try, I won't permit them to bring chaos into our kingdom. Not here. Not in Panchala." There was a quiet determination in his voice that gave Samyukta comfort.

"Let go of all your worries Samyukta," he murmured softly.

A sigh of relief escaped her as the soothing rhythm of his fingers worked their magic. She closed her eyes, feeling the weight of her concerns start to lift. "I never knew you could give such relaxing head massages," she murmured, a teasing smile playing on her lips.

Dhrishtadyumna chuckled softly, his thumb gently pressing the back of her neck. "There's a lot you don't know about me yet," he replied with a playful tone. Leaning down, he placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, his lips warm against her skin.

In that quiet moment, Samyukta's worries seemed to fade away, replaced by the comfort of her husband's presence. The storm that tomorrow might bring didn't seem so daunting anymore. Wrapped in his embrace, with his gentle fingers soothing her, she felt safe. Whatever chaos awaited them the next day, tonight, in his arms, she allowed herself to let go.

* * * * *

Ashwaththama arrived in Panchala with Duryodhana and Karna, their entrance commanding attention from all gathered in the court. Karna, as always, stood out among the trio. His tall, broad frame was draped in resplendent armor that gleamed in the sunlight, casting an almost divine aura around him. His complexion was darker than the others, his skin bronzed by countless battles fought under the scorching sun. His sharp features, intense gaze, and regal bearing made him appear every bit the noble warrior he is.

As they entered the sabha, Duryodhana's eyes immediately found Samyukta. A nasty look crossed his face, his contempt for her evident. Samyukta, standing beside Dhrishtadyumna, met his gaze with unwavering strength, her expression calm yet resolute.