The Dining Hall of Hastinapura:
The grand dining hall of Hastinapura was lit with countless oil lamps, their flickering flames casting a warm, golden glow over the intricate carvings on the walls and ceilings. The aroma of freshly prepared delicacies filled the air, enticing everyone present. The Pandavas, Rajmata Kunti, and Subhadra were gathered for the evening meal, their laughter and chatter creating a lively atmosphere. Subhadra's presence seemed to brighten the hall even more, her radiant smile a magnet for everyone's attention.
However, one pair of eyes was especially drawn to her-Arjuna's. From the moment she entered the hall, his gaze had followed her every movement, mesmerized by her grace and charm. He barely touched his food, his thoughts consumed by her presence. Subhadra noticed his lingering gaze and felt a slight blush creep up her cheeks, though she tried to hide it by focusing on her meal.
---
Before the Dinner
The playful banter had begun earlier when the group was still in the courtyard. Nakul, always the mischievous one, had been quick to notice Arjuna's fascination with Subhadra. Seizing the opportunity, he started clearing his throat dramatically, drawing the attention of the group.
"Bhratashree, did you know that Rajkumari Subhadra was the most excellent student in Kanyakul?" Nakul began, his voice tinged with amusement. "She's mastered the art of combat with all weapons, especially archery. Her skills are unmatched! And, as if that weren't enough, she plays every instrument with perfection, particularly the veena. Oh, and let's not forget-she is the most beautiful maiden in all of Aryavarta, isn't she, Bheem?" Nakul turned to his elder brother with a teasing smile.
Bheem, who was thoroughly enjoying the moment, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Nakul. It seems Hastinapura is truly blessed to host such a remarkable princess. Wouldn't you agree, Arjuna?"
Arjuna, caught off guard, shifted uncomfortably but said nothing. His silence only encouraged the group further.
Subhadra, noticing the teasing, raised her eyebrows in exasperation. "Enough, Dushala! Why do you always feel the need to praise me endlessly? Don't you have anything better to do?" she asked, directing her irritation at her dear friend who had joined the conversation.
Dushala, however, was undeterred. "But everything I've said is true, Subhadra. It's not every day one meets someone so talented and beautiful, is it?" she replied with a mischievous smile, throwing a quick glance in Arjuna's direction.
Nakul, ever the instigator, leaned forward with a sly grin. "Hmm... Behen Subhadra, it seems like someone here doesn't mind the praises. Isn't that right, Bhrata Arjuna?" His words hung in the air like a challenge.
Arjuna, flustered, looked away, pretending to examine the carvings on the wall as if they were the most fascinating thing in the room. Subhadra, catching his discomfort, stifled a laugh, though her own cheeks were tinged with color.
Before the teasing could escalate further, Rajmata Kunti intervened, her voice gentle yet authoritative. "Enough, Nakul. Stop teasing my daughter. Let's all head to the dining hall now. Dinner is ready, and we have much to celebrate tonight."
Relieved by the interruption, Arjuna stood quickly, allowing Subhadra to walk ahead as the group made their way to the dining hall.
---
The dining hall was grand, with long tables laden with a feast fit for royalty. Plates of steaming rice, fragrant curries, golden breads, and sweet delicacies adorned the table. Subhadra took her seat, unaware of the small commotion she caused by sitting directly across from Arjuna. The brothers exchanged knowing glances, but they refrained from further teasing, sensing that their brother might need a reprieve.
As the meal began, Subhadra's laughter and vibrant personality filled the room. She charmed everyone with her quick wit and lighthearted stories of her days in Kanyakul. Even Rajmata Kunti couldn't help but smile as she listened to her niece speak.
While everyone else was engaged in conversation, Subhadra and Arjuna found themselves stealing glances at each other across the table. Whenever their eyes met, a silent electricity seemed to pass between them, leaving them both flustered yet unable to look away. Subhadra noticed how Arjuna's gaze held a mixture of admiration and respect, and she found herself drawn to his quiet intensity.
Arjuna, for his part, was captivated by Subhadra's elegance and charm. Her laughter, her poise, and her undeniable grace filled his heart with emotions he hadn't felt before. He was a warrior, disciplined and focused, but in her presence, he felt like a boy again, eager to win her affection.
"Subhadra, you must tell us-what do you think of Hastinapura?" Yudhishthira asked, breaking Arjuna's train of thought.
Subhadra smiled warmly. "It's magnificent, Dada Yudhishthira. The palace is grand, and the people are so kind. But what I value most is the love and warmth I've felt here. It already feels like home," she said, her words sincere.
"And it will always be your home, dear sister," Yudhishthira replied, his tone affectionate.
Arjuna's heart swelled at her words. He wanted to tell her how much her presence meant to him, but the words stayed lodged in his throat. Instead, he focused on his plate, though he barely ate a bite.
---
As dinner concluded, the group moved to the courtyard to enjoy the cool night breeze. The stars glittered like diamonds in the vast sky, their light casting a serene glow over the palace gardens. Subhadra walked beside Rajmata Kunti, who spoke to her lovingly about her late husband Pandu and the bond between the Kuru and Yadu families.
Arjuna lingered behind, watching Subhadra from a distance. He admired how effortlessly she carried herself, her kindness and intelligence shining through in every interaction. He wondered if she could feel the connection he felt-a bond so strong it defied explanation.
Nakul, noticing Arjuna's contemplative mood, approached him with a grin. "Bhratashree, you've been quiet all evening. Should I assume it's because of a certain princess?"
"Enough, Nakul," Arjuna said, though his tone lacked any real annoyance.
"You don't have to hide it from me. It's obvious to anyone with eyes," Nakul teased. "If you're feeling this strongly, perhaps you should tell her. Who knows? She might feel the same."
Arjuna sighed, unsure of how to express the emotions swirling within him. For now, he decided, he would savor the moments they shared and wait for the right time to speak his heart.
---
Subhadra's chamber:
Later that night, as Subhadra prepared for bed, her mind wandered to Arjuna. There was something about him-his quiet strength, his unwavering focus-that intrigued her. She had felt his gaze on her throughout the evening, and though she wouldn't admit it aloud, she found herself thinking of him more and more.
"Could it be?" she wondered to herself. "Does he feel the same way I do?"
As sleep finally claimed her, a small smile graced her lips. Though she couldn't predict what the future held, she felt a strange sense of comfort knowing Arjuna was near.
---
Thank u 😊❤️
YOU ARE READING
Krishnaanuja: The Goddess Of Illusion (Editting)
Historical Fiction(On hold) Devi Subhadra, a divine figure in Hindu mythology, is the beloved sister of Lord Krishna and Balarama, and the wife of Arjuna. Revered for her grace and wisdom, she symbolizes purity, devotion, and familial love. Often depicted as serene a...
