𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐌𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 - 𝐌𝐎𝐌

[ Shadows of Ambition ]

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Recap from the previous chapter :-

In the previous chapter , tensions rise among the Kuru dynasty as Drona watches the princes' intense training. Karna stands out with his impressive skills and strong sense of fairness, earning both admiration and jealousy from his peers. Meanwhile, Shakuni, aiming to advance his nephew Karna, manipulates situations in Hastinapur to sway King Dhritarashtra towards making Karna the future king. As the princes' friendships and family dramas unfold, their alliances and rivalries deepen, shaping their futures in the midst of gurukul life and palace politics.

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"How did it come to this ?" Vidur muttered, his frustration palpable as he observed the court proceedings.

In stark contrast, Shakuni, the cunning King of Gandhara, reclined comfortably, a subtle smirk playing on his lips. What began as a simple visit had swiftly evolved into an extended stay, much to Vidur's chagrin.

"Once a mere guest, now meddling in every affair of Hastinapur. Who is Shakuni, after all? A king whose kingdom relies on Hastinapur's goodwill, yet he acts as if he dictates terms in our royal court," Vidur seethed inwardly .

Every day, Shakuni tightens his grip on Dhritarashtra, ensnaring the court in his favor. How I loathe his presence, this charade of being just a Well Wisher!"

Vidur watches silently as his influence on the politics of hastinapur go to waste which he had achieved after years of careful planning and meticulously treading through intricate webs of family politics. Somehow Shakuni had found a way to wiggle up to the ranks of the royal court in just a span of a few days.

But Mahamantri of hastinapur was helpless as Rajmata Satyavati had strict orders that the royals should maintain a charade of Unity in front of the commoners.

As the delicate matter of foreign policy with a neighboring kingdom was raised in the court , Shakuni chipped in

"Surely, we must consider a more aggressive stance. Hesitation will only make us appear weak ."

Vidur clenched his fists under the table, his patience wearing thin. He could no longer hold back .

" Forgive me for My sudden intrusion , But Foreign policy should not be debated in the presence of other kings. It is a matter of great sensitivity and should be reserved for the royal family and its closest advisors ."

Shakuni's eyes gleamed with a predatory light as he had expected Vidur to speak up sooner or later.His tone dripping with sarcasm, as he responded

"Ah, Vidur, always the cautious one. You are known to be the greatest player in Videsh Niti. But tell me, what use is all this knowledge when one plays alone within his own courtyard? A player's true potential is seen when facing off real adversary , is it not?"

Vidur's voice was a cold, measured whisper, barely concealing his disdain.

"The game of power, as you call it, is not a game at all. It is a matter of the kingdom's survival. Rash decisions made in haste can lead to ruin ."

Shakuni chuckled, a sound that echoed ominously through the hall.

"You speak as if you are the only one who cares for this kingdom. Perhaps you fear that others might outshine you in your own expertise ? "

The air grew heavy with unspoken tension. Vidur's eyes burned with a quiet fury, but he kept his quiet as hushed waves of murmur were beginning to be heard within the officials.