The Fateful Evening Part l

Part title

Arjun then made a face and said, "Now don't be angry, I will continue the story and I hope you will  do my wish,after that,You know I can't see you  disheartened. "
He said those words as if he is coming her a favour and Draupadi agreed since she is so curious to know the way Arjun got it,
Arjun continued.   "After we returned from pAnchal, Jyesht Pitasri Dhritaraashtr  announced  our Eldest's coronation as The Yuvaraj of Hastinapur.   We all thought that Grand father will certainly present it to Eldest on that occassion,  Duryodhan lost his hope and tried to create trouble by saying,since grandfather loves Arjun a lot he will give that to him only. We did'nt argue with him but we were disappointed since Grandfather did not offer it to Eldest even after his coronation as Yuva raj.
Then I happened to go on conquest and defeated,sauviraas,and the  yavana king who is so haughty and whom my father also was unable to defeat. I proceeded to conquer the southern regions  and other rival kings and made them pay tributes to Hastinapur.  When I came back I was given a grand  welcome by the citizens who took pride in my achievements.Duryodhan was bitter with envy and teased Eldest by saying that he need not even move his finger as every thing will be done by me.
Eldest patiently listened to him and said "Yes Duryodhan,with Arjun on our side we all are protected. "
Jyesht maata Gandhari hugged me and said she rememberedFather Pandu on listening to my achievements.
She told mother "Kunti I so many times asked you to let me adopt Arjun,You did not agree"
.Mother's eyes are brimming with tears. I know she is thinking of my father  that moment.
Arjun stopped .He became emotional and his eyes exhibited his pain remembering their good days at Hastinapur.
Draupadi touched his arm and conveyed her feelings.Yes,she is so proud of him due to his excellence but equally attracted to his emotional  side which is a rare combination,she thought.
Now can't bear with your suspense .Continue please.she pleaded with him.
Arjun smiled at her impatience "That night grand father called me to his chamber and made me sit in his lap like I used to do in my childhood.You know son,Now I really feel old.On seeing your triumphs,I remember my Pandu again and again."He had tears in his eyes.
I know from him only how close he was to my father.   I  changed the topic,wiped his tears and said "Now don't try to lure me with words. I want precious gift from you."
I said but I didn't mean the chain at all,I just did like I used to do with him. Grand father laughed his rare laugh that makes his whole form glow,and hugged me closely.He took off the locket chain,and placed it round my neck.This is for the new protector and commander of Hastinapur ,he proudly said and placed his hand on my head,
Krishnaa I still feel his touch here Arjun placed my hand on his head on those luscious curls.