42 Old wounds
Next morning, just before play was due to start, Arjuna and Bhima dutifully offered their services to Satyaki for his afternoon game. Satyaki was grateful, but hesitant.
‘I have a feeling that Drupada may ask one of you to support him. If not, then certainly I will be glad of your help.’
The voice of Ashwa starting off the morning session ended this conversation, and Satyaki walked round the auditorium to join the crowd by Shakuni’s table. Shalya and Nakula were starting off the attack against Shakuni and Dur. Arjuna stayed where he was, overlooking the table where Saha and Krita were now in play.
Soon he was joined by Drupada. Evidently there had been a change of plan for the afternoon, and Shikhandi would be seconding her brother, not her father.
‘Nakula is formidable,
