Chapter Three: Milk

The chapter begins with Draupadi narrating a parable about a poor mother who deceives her son with a mixture of flour and water, calling it milk. This story sets a poignant tone, reflecting themes of trust, betrayal, and hardship.

During a stormy evening, Draupadi and Dhri seek solace in storytelling. Their shared narratives reveal their isolation within King Drupad's palace, where they are secluded from the rest of the family. Their stories serve as a means to make sense of their father’s vendetta and their own existence.

The central tale revolves around King Drupad’s broken promise to Drona, his childhood friend. As a young prince, Drupad vowed to share his kingdom with Drona. However, years later, when a poor but proud Drona approaches him seeking friendship and a place at court, Drupad, fearing ridicule and loss of power, publicly humiliates him. This betrayal sows the seeds of Drona’s desire for revenge.

Years later, Drona enlists the Kaurava princes, including Arjun, as his pupils. As payment for their training, he demands that they capture Drupad. Arjun, skilled and courteous, fulfills this task, presenting Drupad as a captive to Drona. Instead of killing Drupad, Drona mockingly claims half of his kingdom, declaring them equals. This act solidifies Drona’s dominance and reignites Drupad’s thirst for revenge.

Draupadi reflects on how the retelling of this story entrenches Dhri’s belief in his destiny to kill Drona, a task he was born to fulfill. Though Draupadi is reluctant to perpetuate the cycle of violence, she feels trapped by the inevitability of their fate.

The chapter ends with a poignant flash-forward to Draupadi and Dhri meeting Drona after her marriage. Despite knowing the prophecy of his demise, Drona welcomes them courteously. Draupadi and Dhri are struck by Drona’s resemblance to their father, symbolizing the cyclical nature of vengeance and their inescapable connection to their shared history.

This chapter explores themes of betrayal, destiny, and the complexities of familial and societal bonds, setting the stage for the unfolding tragedy of vengeance and conflict.