The Fateful Evening part 2

Part 9

Iravan stood there behind the Mango tree observing Arjun practice his archery. Ulupi told him it is necessary to watch his father so that he would know to what extent he needs to work hard . And he was awestruck observing the greatest archer live . And the Gandiv! It just complemented him perfectly. Will he ever be able to match up to the skills of his father?He is not sure about it.
As the sun rays pierced through the leaves Iravan moved a bit to avoid them.' Morning Rays are good for  the health. They improve your energy levels. Expose yourself  to Sunlight. Come out Iravan, "Arjun's voice made Iravan apprehensive . How did his father know that he is hiding there?

Iravan slowly approached his father and touched his feet. Arjun read the question mark in his eyes and replied. By instinct I knew you are there. Learn your first lesson my son. Always be alert. Kshatriyas should look through eyes and heart.Kshatriyas should hear the minutest sound by the ears . Use your eyesight and ears to such an extent that you can feel the presence of another being whether they are nearer or far away.
Iravan felt immensely satisfied. I will always remember my first lesson from you Pitasri.he promised. ...

Kunti sent message to Arjun to meet her in private.Arjun went to her chamber after breakfast. Kunti is sitting with Priyamvada making a list of worship materials that are required for the inauguration of Yajnasala after ten days. She smiled at him and made him sit beside her. VedVyasji told me you made a dream Yajnasala of sorts .
Arjun brushed it off. You know how he is. He praises even the smallest contribution of mine to the skies.Kunti pinched his cheek. Don't be too humble atleast with me. It won't suit you.I want to see  my pampered Phalgun only . She taunted. Arjun smiled. When did you find me arrogant with you? Pampered yes. But I never crossed your  word.isnt it?he demanded.
Kunti's face changed colours. Yes. He did not question her even when he has to share his wife with his brothers. She composed herself and said. By the time Rajasuya starts Bahu has to be completely into the Yajnic formalities. She has to spend most of her time in YajnaSala. I give you the responsibility of looking after her day and night.
Arjun could not believe his eyes. Such words from Mata he wondered. Kunti continued. I know your allotted time may come to an end within a short time But you spent most of your time outside Indraprasth. So instead of moving over with the rule,I feel it is better to continue your time with her. Karenu is pregnant. She needs Nakul by her side.,You be with Bahu take care of her health physically and mentally during the sacrifice. Whenever Pragati needs her bring them together. I hope you understand what I want to convey.
Arjun is relieved and excited. He and Ktishnaa need not get separated that soon. Especially Krishnaa can be taken care of as she is still week due to continuous deliveries. Arjun hugged Kunti and placed his head on her shoulder. Kunti put her hands round his waist. She knew how relieved he is on hearing her. Priyamvada wiped her eyes and thanked Gandhari in het heart. Princess you be happy with your Arjun for some more time. You deserve it. Priyamvada thought in her heart.

Arjun received the first quota of the tributes that are the extensions of the vast gifts he brought after the conquest from Northern Kashmir. The king sent thousand varieties of perfumes and scents along with beautiful worked up Carpets along with Kasturi scents that are extracted from Kasturi deer,famous in that region. Every one opened their mouths to see what they never saw before.Nakul is delighted and quipped. I am living in my own ignorant world. These many flavours are there I can't dream. Thanks. Bhrata. Northern direction certainly is a gold mine. It is our good fortune that you explored North.
Arjun smiled and entrusted them to Nakul . They are to be gifted to guest Kings and used whenever the occasion demands. He told him. He also asked Nakul to take charge of dress code of attendents and maids so that there won't be confusion for Royal guests in identifying them.

To make his wish fulfilled he luckily got tributes in the form of finest silks and all varieties of textures in huge bundles from Madhrai and other southern parts like Kanchipuram and other famous parts of South. Arjun told Nakul ' Even the servants should look regal and elegant. You take care of these things."
Satya teased Arjun. Wah. Great planning Arjun.I wonder Are you planning for a sacrifice or any festival celebration? Arjun retorted. You think Sacrifice is not celebration? Many people assume that it is meant only for those who take interest in  dharmic matters. I want to prove it wrong. It can be done with vibrance and colour. Madhav also agrees to it . Isn't it Madhav? He questioned.
Satya pouted. I still have to find some thing that makes you two differ in view. Swami I am waiting to hear from you. Well said Parth. Satya's imitation of Krishna made Arjun and Krishna laugh heartfully.
Obviously I am always right. Madhav knows that. Arjun said with attitude.

Satya warned. Don't be overconfident. You may take a wrong decision at a crucial time.Krishna immediately said. I will stand by him in that crucial moment. Arjun hugged Krishna. Satya stared at them with delight and envy. ...

Priyamvada informed Panchali about Kunti's decision. Panchali who is trying to make Kirti sleep could not believe her ears. Her mother in law considered the long periods  that were spent by Arjun in battlefield ? Priyamvada understood her confusion and smiled. Ofcourse Maharani Ganthari effect worked again.she revealed.
Panchali had tears in her eyes. Why would Ganthari feel so much for her and Arjun? She bent her face so that Priyamvada won't see her tears. Kirti looked up as the teardrop fell on his cheek. He stretched his little palms to her eyes.He felt the moisture and looked at his palms. Who scolded you? I will tell Pitasri. He said in his cute way. Priyamvada smiled and lifted Panchali's face. Princess,you can hide yourself from anyone but not from your kid. The relationship between mother and son is special. Your husband's hug to Kunti in the morning stands as a proof.

Panchali looked with wide eyes. Arjun knew this? She hugged Priyamvada closely. Masi, I feel indebted to you for your love. Priyamvada replied. Don't say so . You are like my daughter I never had. My princess. ...

Kirti slept. Pragati is in the Jhoola in deep sleep. She didn't sleep in the evening. So she slept early. Panchali walked towards her Jhoola . The night is mesmerising.The irritation,the uneasiness,the anger she is feeling to move away from Arjun got subdued on hearing Priyamvada's words.she got peace of mind. Her Arjun will stand by her through out that Rajasuya. He will take care of her,her Pragati who needs her the most. Panchali smiled in relief.
The gentle breeze got stronger and blew away her Pallu. It covered Arjun who just came in there. Arjun took it away and  closed her waist from behind. Panchali got the thrill that is always fresh and new that makes her feel herself totally belong to him and him only.