Shakuni received news of Draupadi and Arjuna's marriage, and his anger flared as his plans were once again foiled. However, he was aware that the political landscape in Hastinapur had shifted. The kingdom desired only one yuvraj, and the public was divided on this matter. Shakuni anticipated a civil war brewing in the kingdom, which brought him a twisted sense of satisfaction.

Bhishma and Vidur had devised their plans to divide the kingdom, a secret known only to Karna. They had identified the barren land of Khandavprastha, as suggested by Karna. The Pandavas would establish a new city in this desolate land, bringing development to Āryāvrata. They had even outlined the borders of the future Indraprastha kingdom.

Madirakshi could sense the impending future and braced herself with determination. Bhanumati, Amrita, and Meenakshi noticed the tension etched on Madirakshi's face, and they too became anxious.

Dronacharya and Kripacharya sensed the tense atmosphere within the palace. Meenakshi had informed them about Madirakshi's worried expression. Being well-versed in the political scenario of Hastinapur, they shared the same concern, as their primary focus was the welfare of the kingdom.

Gandhari also noticed a significant change in the palace's atmosphere. She had met with Madirakshi and sensed her anxiety. Gandhari, whether for the Pandavas or her own sons, longed for happiness and harmony within her family.

Karna and Ashwathama returned to Hastinapur, with Ashwathama having discovered Karna's true identity. He had overheard a conversation between Karna and Parashurama, pledging never to reveal this secret to anyone. Ashwathama also learned about Shakuni's plans and the kingdom's division from Karna. The fact that Mahamahim and Mahamantri were aware of Karna's identity surprised Ashwathama, leaving him feeling stressed. Karna, however, kept him calm despite his own concerns, which he kept hidden from everyone.

Upon his return to Hastinapur, Karna learned that Duryodhana, accompanied by the Pandavas, would arrive in just five days. He promptly arranged a meeting with Bhishma, Vidur, Kripacharya, Dronacharya, and Ashwathama. Ashwathama informed them about Karna, leaving the two sages shocked at this revelation. While they felt conflicted about the deceit towards both Duryodhana and Yudhishthira, they recognized the need for division due to the prevailing circumstances.

Five tension-filled days passed, and the palace welcomed the new bride of Hastinapur. Gandhari performed the aarti for Bhima and Hidimba, and they were accepted by the elders of the kingdom. She then performed the aarti for Draupadi and Arjuna, extending her welcome to Lord Krishna and Balarama. Madirakshi took the opportunity to sing a welcoming song for her new sisters.

"Blessed is Hastinapur,
Blessed is the palace gate,
Where the witness of the sacred flame
Stands for the welcoming ceremony.
The new brides, the Goddess of Wealth,
Enter through the sacred door.
The Pandavas, Draupadi, and Hidimba have been embraced by all."

Everyone rejoiced at Madirakshi's melodious song. Draupadi and Hidimba met with Karna and Madirakshi, sensing an aura of divinity, power, love, and care around them.

They also interacted with the wives of the Kauravas, and a strong bond formed among them. Yaudheya formed his own gang and approached them. Vrishasena welcomed him and introduced him to his younger siblings. They quickly developed a close connection.

Both the Pandavas and Kauravas sensed the prevailing tension in the atmosphere. Karna approached the Pandavas, advising them not to act foolishly in the upcoming Rajya Sabha. He emphasized the delicate nature of the situation, urging them to simply nod and refrain from using their own judgment. The kingdom would be divided, and they needed to be prepared for the change without reacting rashly. Civil war loomed over Hastinapur, making it imperative for them not to rely on their own intelligence.

The Pandavas nodded in agreement, and Karna shared the same information with the Kauravas. Both sets of brothers grasped the seriousness of the matter and readily accepted this proposal.

Karna then approached Shakuni, openly declaring, "Be prepared for my next move, Gandhar Raj. I saved the Pandavas with Emperor Prithvi's help. Brace yourself for what comes next."

"I am always ready for your political maneuvers," replied Shakuni. This exchange marked an outright declaration of war between Karna and Shakuni. The tension among the members was palpable, but they understood that Shakuni had been involved in the Lakshagraha plot. After an intense glare, both Karna and Shakuni retired to their respective chambers.

Meanwhile, Shri Krishna and Balarama were shown to their private quarters, engaged in discussions about political matters concerning Dwarka. Afterward, they visited the room of the Pandavas.

The Pandavas were deep in discussion about the partition of the kingdom. Arjuna expressed his disapproval, insisting that Yudhishthira had the rightful claim to the throne.

"Arjuna, the public is divided on this matter, which could lead to a civil war," Yudhishthira explained, understanding the gravity of the situation.

"Arjuna, Yudhishthira is correct," Shri Krishna chimed in.

"Then which land should we take, brother Krishna?" Nakula inquired.

"Take the barren land of Khandavprastha. By developing it, Yudhishthira, you will lay the foundation of a prosperous kingdom. It is the best option," Krishna suggested.

"Very well, we shall claim the entire Khandavprastha forest and land as our new kingdom," Yudhishthira proclaimed.

"Remember, Bharata Yudhishthira, that this land is your Karmabhumi. Always serve your nation selflessly and never consider the kingdom as your personal possession," Krishna advised before departing the room.

Later on, Balarama visited Karna's chambers, seeking some light-hearted entertainment or a prank to play on his younger brother, Krishna. He yearned for some amusing mischief.

Karna welcomed him and inquired about the reason for his visit.

"Angaraj, I wish to witness Shakuni's comedy once more, but this time, with my little brother, Krishna," Balarama explained.

Madirakshi chuckled and remarked, "Now, a trickster will face a trick."

Karna smiled and agreed. He recited a mantra that transformed Shakuni into a woman seeking a marriage proposal from handsome men.

Upon hearing this, Shri Krishna's face paled as he contemplated the future, but he quickly devised a plan.

"Dau, tomorrow Mohini will play a prank on you too," Shri Krishna said, laughing mischievously.

***

The following day, Bhishma and Vidur presented their plan to divide the Kuru Empire into two parts, along with their suggested territories. Dhritarashtra hesitated, unwilling to accept the proposal. He sought Shakuni's assistance but found him absent. Just as Dhritarashtra was about to decline, Karna intervened.

"If you refuse to divide the nation, Maharaj Dhritarashtra, as the head of the council in Hastinapur, I will declare war against you for disregarding the kingdom's laws," Karna threatened.

Fearful of losing his throne, Dhritarashtra reluctantly agreed to the plan. As decided, Yudhishthira acquired the land of Khandavprastha from Dhritarashtra.

Subsequently, Dhritarashtra ordered the coronation of Yudhishthira and Devika as the new king and queen of independent Khandavprastha.

During Yudhishthira and Devika's Rajya Abhishek, Maharishi Ved Vyas graced the occasion with his presence, blessing all members of the Kuru lineage. He issued a warning to Devika, urging her to safeguard her hair.

As Maharishi Ved Vyas uttered these words, Bhishma, Vidur, and Dronacharya became somber, sensing the significance of his message. Karna grasped the hint of an upcoming future and vowed to protect Devika at any cost. Krishna appeared crestfallen, well aware of what lay ahead.

Soon, the coronation of Yudhishthira and Devika took place, and the entire Pandu family prepared to depart for the next two weeks.

After the Rajya Abhishek, Shakuni appeared in the court disguised as a girl. The courtiers erupted in laughter, even Maharishi Ved Vyas found amusement in the spectacle. As Mohini, Shakuni approached handsome men, pretending to beg for marriage proposals. The Pandavas and Kauravas burst into laughter, and Draupadi, Hidimba, and other female members thoroughly enjoyed the charade.

Shakuni then approached Krishna, pleading, "Dwarkadeesh Shri Krishna, please marry me. I desire a husband like you. Please be my consort."

Shri Krishna looked at Shakuni with a mix of horror and amusement, but he firmly declined, stating that he was already married. He suggested Shakuni approach his brother instead.

Shakuni turned to Balarama, imploring him for marriage. Balarama, repulsed by the thought, slapped Shakuni hard in anger.

The slap sent Shakuni sprawling to the ground, unconscious. Duryodhana ordered soldiers to carry his uncle back to his room. The entire court laughed at Shakuni's expense, reveling in the comedy of the situation. The Rajya Sabha continued with discussions on important matters.

Following the assembly, Duryodhana took his guru Balarama to his palace for lunch. However, Shri Krishna declined the invitation, expressing his desire to have lunch at Vidur's place.

Vidur and Sulabha were overjoyed, knowing that Shri Krishna was an incarnation of Narayan. They prepared the meal with great love for Shri Krishna.

"I have never tasted such delicious mustard greens and corn flatbread. I am truly content," Shri Krishna remarked.

"Did you hear that? Look who is content eating your mustard greens," Vidur said, casting a loving glance at his wife.

"That's the truth, uncle. I was tired of eating palace food. If I ever come to Hastinapur again, I will be your guest," Shri Krishna affirmed.

"This house will be blessed, Vasudev," Vidur said.

"Will you remember your promise?" Sulabha inquired.

"He never forgets, my dear," Vidur assured. The entire universe sang a single song, as the provider of the world enjoyed the food prepared by Vidur.

"The Lord of the three worlds dines at Vidur's house.
Even the simplest food tastes imbued with love."

Vidur then posed a question, "May I ask something?"

"Of course, please go ahead. I am here to answer any questions you may have," Shri Krishna replied.

"Is Hastinapur on the way from Kampilya to Dwarka?" Vidur asked.

"Today, all directions pass through Hastinapur. Know that whatever is happening, let it happen. Wait for what is yet to come and have faith in Angaraj Karna," Shri Krishna responded, finishing his meal before leaving for the palace.

***

Two weeks later, the entire Pandu family, along with Shri Krishna and Balarama, set off for Khandavprastha. They performed the groundbreaking ceremony to inaugurate the land.

Yudhishthira sought Shri Krishna's guidance on establishing their new kingdom. Krishna suggested that Balarama use his plough to make the land fertile. After five years of diligent work by Balarama, Krishna, and the Pandavas, the magnificent city of Indraprastha was created.

During this time, Krishna and Arjuna defeated Takshaka, and they even faced a fierce battle with Devraj Indra, emerging victorious. Arjuna obtained his Gandiva bow, and Krishna received his Sharang bow. Vishvakarma, the divine architect, also contributed to the construction of Indraprastha.

News of the magnificent city of Indraprastha soon spread throughout Aryavrat, earning it the title of the City of Gods.