Chariots adorned with golden lotus designs, yoked to the finest horses and fit for kings, stood ready. At Yudhishthira’s instruction, he invited his brothers and companions, “Mount these, all of you, and let us proceed to the residence of the king of the Panchalas.” The foremost of the Kurus, accompanied by their priest, boarded those splendid vehicles. Kunti and Krishnaa (Draupadi) rode together in one chariot. All were adorned in fragrant garments and garlands, decorated with various ornaments. Auspicious songs and the melodious sounds of musical instruments, performed by the best and most virtuous women, filled the air as they set out. Their procession was radiant with blazing lamps and accompanied by Brahmins chanting blessings. Meanwhile, Yudhishthira had sent word ahead. The chief priest of the king of the Panchalas went to Drupada and faithfully reported all that Yudhishthira, the son of Kuru, had instructed. Upon hearing these words, which reflected Yudhishthira’s righteousness, King Drupada, eager to understand the intentions of these noble Kurus, ordered that many gifts be brought forth. Fruits and prepared garlands, armor, shields, seats, cows, ropes, and seeds for agriculture were gathered. Everything needed for crafts and all manner of sports and pastimes was provided. Brilliant armor and shields, mighty swords, splendid horses and chariots, excellent bows with decorated arrows, spears, lances, and weapons adorned with gold were all arrayed. Javelins, clubs, axes, and all kinds of weapons for battle were laid out, along with the finest beds and seats covered with rich fabrics and various garments. Kunti, ever virtuous, embraced Krishnaa and entered the inner apartments of Drupada. There, the gentle-hearted wives of the Kaurava king honored her with respect and affection. When the men arrived, their presence was striking—lion-like in their gait, their eyes like those of mighty bulls, clad in deerskin upper garments that half-concealed their powerful shoulders, their long arms coiling like great serpents. The king, his ministers, sons, friends, and all the attendants were filled with joy at the sight of these noble guests. The heroes entered and, without hesitation, took their seats on the highest stools and thrones, as was their due. They were not at all surprised by the grandeur of the arrangements. Food, both rich and simple, was served in golden and silver vessels by well-adorned male and female servants and attendants. After eating to their satisfaction, the sons of Kunti left the remaining food and proceeded to the assembly hall. Observing their conduct, Drupada’s sons, the king himself, and all the chief ministers approached joyfully, recognizing the sons of Kunti as royal princes. Then Drupada’s son summoned Yudhishthira and, with due Brahmanical rites, received him with honor. With a gentle heart, he inquired of the illustrious son of Kunti, “How shall we know whether you are Kshatriyas, Brahmanas, or perhaps excellent Vaishyas, or even of Shudra birth, or accomplished beings moving everywhere by means of illusion? For Krishnaa’s sake, even gods have come seeking her hand. Tell us the truth, for we are greatly in doubt. May the end of our doubt bring satisfaction to our hearts and good fortune to us. Speak the truth willingly, for truth befits kings. One should speak as one has done in sacrifice and charity, but never falsehood. Hearing your words, which are like those of immortals, I shall certainly proceed with the marriage according to proper rites.” Yudhishthira replied gently, “Do not be troubled, O king. Let there be joy for you, son of Drupada. Your cherished desire is surely fulfilled. We are Kshatriyas, O king, sons of the great-souled Pandu. Know me as the eldest, son of Kunti, and these are Bhimasena and Arjuna. By these two, your daughter was won in the royal assembly. There also are the twins and Kunti, where Krishnaa stands. Let your mind’s sorrow pass away, O bull among men; your daughter, like a lotus, has gone from one lake to another. Thus, O great king, I speak to you truly, for you are our teacher and highest refuge.” King Drupada, his eyes brimming with tears of joy, was so overcome with happiness that he could not reply at once. With effort, he restrained his great joy and then answered Yudhishthira with fitting words. He inquired how they had escaped their previous dangers, and Yudhishthira narrated everything in order. Hearing this, Drupada reproached King Dhritarashtra for his conduct and comforted Yudhishthira, pledging his kingdom to him. Then Kunti, Krishnaa, Bhimasena, Arjuna, and the twins entered the great palace as instructed by the king, and there they stayed, honored by King Yajnasena. Once they were reassured, the king spoke with his sons, saying, “Let the son of Kuru, mighty-armed Arjuna, take my daughter’s hand according to custom on an auspicious day; let the moment be fixed.” Yudhishthira then said to the king, “But my own marriage must also be arranged, O lord of men.” Drupada replied, “Let either you, O hero, take my daughter’s hand according to custom, or give Krishnaa to whomever you think fit.” Yudhishthira spoke, “O king, Draupadi will be queen to all of us; thus my mother spoke before, O lord of men.” Thus, in joy and reverence, the union of the Pandavas and Krishnaa was set in motion, fulfilling the wishes of all and bringing together two noble houses.