Tantra - a Dwapar yug adventure [Ongoing]

Part 15

Dushasan reached Kalinga a few days after Tantra had arrived. He was welcomed by the Mantris and escorted to the dining hall. Tantra introduced Dushasan to the royal family, and the maids served them food as they ate their meal together. 

Dushasan's eye was caught by Vishala, and he inquired about her to Tantra.

"She is my newfound friend; she has been through a lot of hardship. I have decided to take her under my wing," Tantra replied."That is unfortunate; I am glad to see you taking care of her," said Duryodhan.

Karna and Vishala joined the duo, and they went to the Rajya Sabha, where people from various villages had come to seek justice from the King. Maharaj Shalya was listening to their problems and seeking help from his ministers to resolve their issues.

A farmer pleaded with the Maharaj to help him, stating that his agricultural land was flooded due to heavy rains, and he was unable to sell his crops. A Mantri suggested that they would help him by providing him with 20 gold coins, but Tantra was not satisfied with this solution. She requested the Maharaj's permission to speak in the Sabha. 

She suggested that a dam be built over the river to avoid flooding for all farmers, not just in this particular case. The Mantris were doubtful as to whether it would work, but the Maharaj seemed convinced that they could benefit from a dam.

The Sabha concluded after hearing many more cases, and Mahrani Akshara requested that 

Tantra and Bhanumati join her. Mahrani was playing her veena with utmost concentration, so Tantra waited for the song to end.

"You are very dedicated to your craft, Rani Sa," said Tantra.

"Thank you; you are no less when it comes to administration, it seems," replied Mahrani.

"That's too kind of you."

"I actually need your help. We are searching for a groom for Bhanu, as we need to forge alliances to strengthen Kalinga. Which kingdom should we look into?"

Bhanumati looked slightly startled.Tantra pondered for a while and then said, "I think Hastinapur might be the best choice. Your borders are nearby, they are wealthy, and they would make a powerful ally.""You once again prove that you are intelligent; I was hoping you would say Hastinapur."

Tantra nudged the bewildered Bhanumati. The Mahrani asked a dasi to tell the Maharaj that they needed to send the proposal to Hastinapur.

Meanwhile, Karna was stuck being the third wheel to Vishala and Dushasan. He was recounting his journey to her, and she couldn't stop laughing at his jokes. Karna thought, who is this guy? he can't be Dushasan.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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