The outskirts of Upaplavya is looking like the battle field with all the soldiers and princes getting trained by Bheem and Arjun in various arts of warfare. Nakul is looking after the horses and chariots that should be well equipped with Many weapons and other things. Sahadev is maintaining the list of entrants into the army ,checking them properly and then sending them to Arjun.
Satyaki went with Krishna and Dhrisht Dyumn is planning the supposed vyuhas with some soldiers. Draupadi's sons except Kirti are practicing physical combat under the supervision of Bheema.
As it is nearing Sunset the golden red hue covered the bluish sky and the SunGod is contemplating setting in the western horizon. By the lake side a chariot drove towards the war Zone but abruptly stopped far behind fearing scared to enter without the permission of The chief commander ,the third Pandav Arjun.
Kirti descended from the chariot and helped his mother get down.The Queen of Pandavas looked around observing the whole war atmosphere and asked her son.' Where is your Pitasri? Not seen anywhere?" Kirti also could not find him any where. They both started walking by the lakeside not disturbing the trainee soldiers.Panchali wondered at the seriousness with which every trainee is trained.
Her husband is right.Despite Govind's trials to make peace with Hastina,the war preparations are going in full swing.He is right. They really mean to avenge her insult. She did not meet him after Krishna went off. He shifted his base to the training camp and day and night Is staying there with the army. Panchali missed him so much. She called her son Kirti and asked him to take her to him. She is walking slowly enjoying the setting Sun and the transparent waters of the lake. Suddenly she is stopped by Bheem's loud voice calling her name.' Panchali,You gave us surprise.What made you come all the way here? "
Panchali did Pranam and replied with a friendly smile.' Just like that. I wanted to watch the camp that's all.I don't want to disturb you, that is why I came by this time." Bheem smiled broadly." Look at our camp We both are making sure that Duryothan will get defeated by us within one week.I know that fool will never oblige Eldest with Indraprasth.So heaven is opening doors to him and to his brothers and also to that Karn"
Panchali said in a pleasing tone.' I know Arya Bheem. I never doubt our victory. You both together will make it happen with Govind's council." Bheem 's face glowed in happiness and he directed her to the place where Arjun is. He said he will return to Upaplavya and relax before having his full dinner.
As Panchali walked with Kirti to the open space nearer to the lake she saw Arjun and Abhimanyu practicing sword fight. Arjun is teaching him the varieties of sword defence.' This is the ninth one Abhi.Move the sword swiftly left and right,the grip should be light while you defend the opponent. Turn around and take the stance."
Abhi turned round ,saw Draupadi and lost his grip. Arjun struck his sword from his hand and scolded.' Is that the way to concentrate? Whoever may come you should...Before Arjun could complete Abhi ran towards Draupadi and almost lifted her up with excitement.' What a surprise Jyesht Mata !why didn't you inform me before?"
Panchali made a face seeing Arjun's attitude and remembered Govind's words.' Parth is too strict while instructing." Kirti ran to Arjun and clasped his waist.' Pitasri I missed your lessons. Please repeat sword defence tomorrow. I still am learning the third one. Abhi Bhrata went ahead no?" Arjun hugged him and assured.' Putr. He is older than you.you are the youngest. So you can take your time. I will teach you again. "
Panchali scolded Abhi.' Now enough of your sword fight. Uttara is getting bored. Go and spend time with her,if your Guru permits you. I hope he didn't forget that you are newly married." Arjun smiled at her annoyance and nodded to Abhi signalling him to go.Abhi pulled Kirti also with him on to his horse.' Let us beat Satanik and Sutasom by reaching faster." He said and the next minute the horse galloped with both the brothers shouting Hurray at the other two ie Satanik and Sutasom.
Where is Iravan?" Panchali asked Arjun walking by the side of the lake .' He went with Nakul to order more chariots for our warriors.Prati left for Upaplavya just before you came." Arjun informed her. The sun went down completely making way for night maiden.Darkness is trying to invade the earth dominating Twilight. Panchali felt peaceful feeling the cool breeze from the lake.Arjun asked her with a glint of naughtiness in his eyes.' Missed me too much? "
Panchali sideglanced him and answered sharply.' Yes Ofcourse . But you seemed disturbed on my arrival. You scolded Abhi for losing concentration because of me. I regret coming over and wasting your time." Panchali pushed her curls that are covering her face due to the blowing winds . Arjun laughed heartily and stopped her. He turned her towards him.He said seriously.' Ofcourse You caused disturbance not only to the desciples but to the Guru also." It took a little time for her to understand his taunt.Her face turned red. She took hasty steps forward and said.' Fine. I take leave. Continue your training without disturbance."
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The Fateful Evening part 2
FanfictionContinuation of the story of The Fateful Evening in a new thread.
