Duryodhana seethed with frustration, his anger boiling over. He stormed towards his chambers, swiftly gathering his belongings in preparation for his departure. Seeking out his trusted companions, Dushasana, Ashwathama, and Shakuni, he informed them of their imminent journey. And so, they set forth that very day.

A week passed, during which Duryodhana ruthlessly trained in mace fighting, his mind consumed by the words spoken against him by the Pandavas and Devika.

"Why vent your anger on your servants? Direct your rage towards the source of your anger. What is troubling you?" Ashwathama inquired, trying to understand Duryodhana's frustration.

"What can I say? I have been bitten by serpents. Their poison courses through my veins," Duryodhana replied with an air of despair.

"What do you mean? What serpents? What poison?" Ashwathama pressed, seeking further clarification.

"I am engulfed in the flames of humiliation. I can no longer bear it. This fire rages within me, consuming every fiber of my being. If it cannot consume me entirely, then I shall willingly leap into the fire to save myself from this torment. This seed of humiliation has sprouted into a towering tree upon my brow, growing relentlessly with every passing moment. I see no means of escape from its clutches," Duryodhana explained, his hand poised to strike a soldier once more.

"If insult were a tree, I possess the strength to uproot it. If insult were a raging inferno, I shall extinguish it with my arrows," Ashwathama declared, attempting to instill confidence in Duryodhana.

"I am proud to have you as my friend, Ashwathama. I know that if the need arises, you would sacrifice your life to extend mine. Even in the face of Death, you would be willing to die in my stead. But no! This insult demands personal vengeance, or the wound shall fester deeper," Duryodhana spoke, his hands resting on Ashwathama's shoulders.

"I fail to comprehend who could dare to insult you. Even Lord Indra himself would not dare to affront a valiant warrior such as yourself," Ashwathama queried, genuinely perplexed.

"The ones who insulted me are the Pandava brothers. I shall unquestionably avenge this humiliation," Duryodhana responded, seething with anger.

"And I shall avenge your insult as well. Grant me the opportunity to vanquish Indraprastha, or gather an army and let us besiege it," Ashwathama offered, his loyalty unwavering.

"Why do you always resort to thoughts of the battlefield? Being a warrior does not mean that one's bow must forever remain drawn. How else can we avenge this insult? Through cunning and intellect, the most potent weapons of all. Now that the Pandavas have performed the ritual, Hastinapur should also hold a celebration in their honor. As part of the festivities, we can engage in a game of dice. I have already suffered defeat at the hands of Emperor Yudhishthira once before. Surely, I should be granted another chance. I give you my word, Duryodhana, if I fail to defeat him this time, I shall willingly exile myself. I have not experienced loss without purpose. That defeat shall pave the path to your victory," Shakuni proclaimed in a menacing tone.

"Grant me permission to depart," Ashwathama requested.

"Yes, Ashwathama, you may leave, for you would not understand the nuances of our discussion," Shakuni responded with a derisive laugh.

"I shall never comprehend your web of conspiracies. My respects to you," Ashwathama acknowledged, his confusion evident.

"Your friend is indeed foolish. I tolerate him solely due to my trust in his loyalty towards you. Politics has a place for such fools, as they become expendable pawns in war or disposable instruments in games of dice. What was I saying? I shall utilize the defeat in Indraprastha to pave the way for your victory. These are not mere dice; they are my invincible army," Shakuni elucidated.

"No, Uncle. The Pandavas are not fools. They will not come here merely for a game of dice," Duryodhana exclaimed, setting his mace aside.

"They will undoubtedly come, for no warrior can resist the call to war or the allure of dice. It is an unwritten law among true warriors, a code the Pandavas cannot violate. Furthermore, King Dhritarashtra shall extend the invitation. After all, the Pandavas acquired Indraprastha from this very place; it is only fitting that they lose it here as well. And what about Devika?" Shakuni remarked.

"What about avenging my insult?" Duryodhana inquired, his desire for revenge burning fiercely.

"I shall contemplate that as well!" Shakuni declared.

"But, Father! He will not permit it," Duryodhana interjected.

"You fail to grasp his love for you. Can he deny you anything you desire? It is impossible! Besides, let us not forget that he harbors no real fondness for Indraprastha. He was not pleased upon his return from there. Yudhishthira has shattered yet another of his dreams. He wanted you to perform the Rajsuya ritual," Shakuni reminded Duryodhana, slyly closing one eye.

"Will he agree, then?" Duryodhana questioned.

"Why don't you ask and find out? And why delay matters? Do not worry. Let us proceed there immediately," Shakuni suggested, leading the way towards Dhritarashtra's chambers, Duryodhana in tow.

***

"Welcome, Shakuni," Dhritarashtra greeted as he recognized the approaching footsteps.

"Greetings, my King," Shakuni responded with a saccharine tone.

"Please have a seat," Dhritarashtra offered.

"I fail to comprehend how you recognize everyone's footsteps but remain oblivious to your own. It perplexes me," Shakuni jested.

"You understand only what you wish to understand," Dhritarashtra countered, chuckling softly.

"What you refuse to understand is what you do not wish to comprehend. Nonetheless, it is my duty to explain that Duryodhana's condition is dire," Shakuni disclosed.

"What ails him? You know full well what afflicts him," Dhritarashtra perked up suddenly, sensing the importance of the conversation.

"His malady is known as Indraprastha. And the cure lies within Indraprastha as well. As his father, why don't you inquire about it?" Shakuni proposed to Dhritarashtra.

"Perhaps you have erred in your diagnosis. How can I find out? I have met him only once since my return. Even Gandhari is concerned for him. It is futile to worry without taking any action. I cannot bestow Indraprastha upon him," Dhritarashtra expressed, his worry evident.

"But that is the remedy," Shakuni replied, fixing his gaze upon Dhritarashtra.

"No, Shakuni! I cannot perpetrate such injustice. Moreover, I doubt its feasibility. The Pandavas are formidable adversaries now," Dhritarashtra understood Shakuni's intentions immediately.

"You are correct, and yet we cannot allow Duryodhana to wallow in despondency. He is the eldest son of my sister. We must keep him occupied," Shakuni suggested, fully aware of Dhritarashtra's thoughts.

"Indeed, Shakuni. I am prepared to do whatever it takes to keep him engaged," Dhritarashtra affirmed.

"Then, ask Duryodhana about his desires," Shakuni urged, gesturing for Duryodhana to join them in the chamber.

"Come, Duryodhana," Shakuni beckoned.

"My respects, Father," Duryodhana greeted his father with reverence.

"May you live long! How long has it been since you last visited me? You must know that any day you do not come to me is a day wasted. I beg your forgiveness. Your uncle informed me of your ill health. Have you consulted a physician?" Dhritarashtra inquired, concern lacing his words.

"The physician cannot cure my ailment," Duryodhana responded abruptly.

"What ails you?" Dhritarashtra questioned his eldest son.

"I have been insulted," Duryodhana proclaimed.

"Insulted?" Dhritarashtra asked, clearly perplexed.

"Yes, insulted. Since then, I have endured sleepless nights, tormented by restlessness," Duryodhana confessed.

"We shall arrange something to keep you engaged. I believe that since the Pandavas have performed the Rajsuya ritual, Hastinapur should extend its congratulations to its victorious sons. Let us invite them, my King," Shakuni interjected.

"Yes, Father. I had assumed you would not approve," Duryodhana commented.

"If that is your wish, then I shall invite them. Let the citizens of Hastinapur witness that I have not committed any injustice by granting them Khandavprastha," Dhritarashtra consented.

"Indeed. They shall come here and bring me joy as well. We shall engage in mock battles and play the game of dice. Nothing captivates one's attention quite like dice," Duryodhana expressed.

"Why not simply state that you wish to avenge your defeat in Indraprastha?" Dhritarashtra suggested.

"What is wrong with that?" Duryodhana immediately retorted.

"Very well. I shall consult Vidur on this matter," Dhritarashtra decided.

"Why consult Uncle Vidur about everything? It seems we cannot even breathe without his counsel," Duryodhana remarked.

"Whether you agree or not, he is unquestionably on their side," Shakuni asserted.

"If you do not wish to invite them, permit me to launch an attack on Indraprastha," Duryodhana proposed.

"But... why wage a war that you are destined to lose?" Dhritarashtra questioned.

"It is an honor to perish while fighting such a battle," Duryodhana stated.

"But, my son, why must you always resort to anger? If the King desires Vidur's consultation, let him have it. How can Vidur oppose their arrival?" Shakuni interjected, trying to calm Duryodhana's frustration.

***

Meanwhile, in Indraprastha, Yudhishthira's heart was heavy with concern, disturbed by his brothers' laughter.

"If you are unhappy with everyone's return, let us journey to Hastinapur. I can almost envision Mother Gandhari," Devika suggested as she and the other Pandava brothers entered Yudhishthira's chamber.

"Separation is out of the question," Yudhishthira firmly declared.

"Then, what is the issue?" Arjuna and Bhima inquired, seeking clarification from their elder brother.

"When Duryodhana fell into the pool, did we not laugh and mock him, saying, 'Like father, like son?'" Yudhishthira confronted his brothers directly, his gaze unwavering.

"Yes, we did indeed say those words. We realize now that it was unkind. Duryodhana is our younger brother and your elder brother. Moreover, I also insulted our elder father. We accept whatever punishment you deem fit," Sahadeva admitted, consumed by guilt over the incident.

"There is no need for punishment. You must undertake penance. Duryodhana was our guest, and a guest is equivalent to a deity," Yudhishthira said in a calm tone.

"We acknowledge our mistake," the Pandava brothers proclaimed in unison.

"I am aware that you acknowledge your error. However, my concern lies in whether that will resolve the issue. Your laughter has wounded Duryodhana's pride. He must be hurting. Duryodhana is one of those individuals who conveniently forget their own transgressions but never forget what others have done to them. Your laughter may prove calamitous, for both Indraprastha and Hastinapur," Yudhishthira explained, his anxiety palpable.

***

"Welcome, Vidur," Dhritarashtra greeted, beckoning his Prime Minister to sit.

"O King. What burdens your mind?" Vidur inquired, noting the worry etched upon Dhritarashtra's face.

"Duryodhana insists on inviting the Pandavas here," Dhritarashtra revealed the purpose of their meeting.

"That should not cause you distress," Vidur reassured.

"Why must you always speak so bluntly?" Dhritarashtra queried.

"That is my nature. I speak as I deem necessary," Vidur responded.

"Those who have vested interests cloak their words in gentleness," Dhritarashtra remarked.

"My sole vested interest lies in the progress of Hastinapur and the preservation of Kuru honor. Why should I soften my words?" Vidur asserted, sensing the weight of Dhritarashtra's intentions.

"You are ever ready with an answer. If you possess a response, then provide it," Dhritarashtra urged.

"Very well, tell me your problem, and allow me to serve you. What does Duryodhana desire?" Vidur inquired.

"Well... he wishes to engage Yudhishthira in a game of dice," Dhritarashtra revealed, getting straight to the point.

"What? I believe that would be unwise, my King," Vidur exclaimed, horrified by the notion.

"Why?" Dhritarashtra questioned.

"Because dice dulls the intellect of its players. One becomes compelled to continue playing even after losing, in a futile attempt to recoup their losses. They lose sight of when to stop, as hope lingers for another winning streak... Both actions violate the very essence of the game of dice. Moreover, brothers should never indulge in such games. But I defer to your wishes," Vidur explained, his objections clear.

"I wish for you to journey to Indraprastha as my emissary and invite Yudhishthira to play dice," Dhritarashtra commanded, his voice filled with authority.

"If you have decided to script the final chapter of Kuru history, then I shall carry your invitation to Indraprastha," Vidur conceded.

"Go, and return with good news," Dhritarashtra concluded.

"As you wish!" Vidur replied before heading toward his abode.

***

Bhishma and Vidur's wife engaged in conversation when a visibly worried Vidur arrived. Bhishma noticed the distress on Vidur's face and queried, "Is something amiss?"

"I felt as though Mother had sent me to you when I had a sudden urge to seek your presence. I arrived here only to find you had gone to Dhritarashtra," Bhishma explained.

"Never before have I felt so helpless as I do today," Vidur confessed.

"What did Brother-in-law say?" Vidur's wife inquired.

"How many times have I told you to address him as 'King'? He is your brother-in-law. You have yet to answer the question. What did Dhritarashtra say?" Bhishma pressed.

"The King has instructed me to journey to Indraprastha as his representative and invite disaster upon Hastinapur," Vidur revealed, his tone filled with despair.

"Is this another scheme of Shakuni's?" Bhishma asked.

"This is his ultimate scheme, and I see no solution," Vidur lamented.

"No solution in sight... Karna and Madirakshi are also absent," Bhishma muttered, consumed by anxiety.

"I cannot halt a warrior from accepting a challenge, be it in the form of war or a game of dice," Vidur confessed.

"These are changing times, where ethics too evolve. Just like people, ethics have their own age. I understand this now. But does an oath also have an age, Vidur?" Bhishma pondered, disappointment evident in his voice.

"An oath's age aligns with the age of the one who made it," Vidur replied.

"I swore to defend Hastinapur," Bhishma stated, rising from his seat.

"No, Grandsire. You also swore that you would see your father's reflection in whoever sat on the throne," Vidur reminded Bhishma of his solemn vow.

"Yes, I did swear, but you have not taken any such oath. Deliver Dhritarashtra's message to Yudhishthira and tell him-no, order him-not to accept the invitation," Bhishma demanded, his frustration apparent.

"I am Hastinapur's representative. I cannot overstep the bounds of my role," Vidur explained, maintaining his composure.

"Hastinapur finds itself in a tragic predicament when its loyalists and worshippers are either restrained or helpless. I know not who will come to this nation's aid in its hour of need. I now understand why Mother sent me to you. Perhaps she wanted me to witness how even a virtuous man like you can be rendered helpless. Karna and Madirakshi are also absent from Hastinapur. This is Shakuni's masterstroke," Bhishma declared, his anger palpable.

"It seems we cannot prevent the fate that awaits us," Vidur resignedly admitted.

"My tragedy lies in the fact that I will have to stand beside Shakuni in this war. Oh, God! Must this humiliation befall me? Today, you witnessed the fall of the most ancient and magnificent tree. It has shattered my heart. Krishna, too, is embroiled in this war. Otherwise, I would have sought his counsel. Karna and Madirakshi possessed the power to prevent this, but they are absent," Bhishma lamented, departing for his chambers and leaving Vidur and his wife alone.

***

"Hastinapur's Prime Minister, Vidur, has arrived," announced one of the vigilant guards stationed at the entrance.

Yudhishthira, upon seeing Vidur's presence, respectfully greeted him, "My sincere respects, Uncle."

Vidur, in his characteristic humility, responded, "There is no need to bow before a mere representative."

Yudhishthira, filled with reverence, disagreed, "You are not a mere representative to me, Uncle. You hold a place of honor as my esteemed elder. I shall always pay my respects and seek your blessings."

Vidur's countenance softened, a warm smile gracing his lips, as he acknowledged Yudhishthira's words. "May my blessings be upon you," he offered graciously.

Devika, ever gracious and hospitable, invited Vidur to be seated in a comfortable lounging chair, saying, "Please, Uncle, take a seat and make yourself comfortable."

Once settled, Yudhishthira expressed his curiosity, "Now, Uncle, I am eager to know why you referred to yourself as a representative."

Vidur, ever the diplomat, clarified, "Hastinapur and Indraprastha are two independent kingdoms. I serve as the Prime Minister of Hastinapur."

Inquisitive about the well-being of his loved ones, Yudhishthira inquired, "How is everyone faring in Hastinapur?"

Understanding the nuanced nature of the question, Vidur responded with wisdom, "Such a question holds meaning only in relation to specific circumstances. The state of affairs varies for each individual. While everyone is in good health, there exists an underlying sense of unease."

Seeking insight into the dynamics between Vidur and his brothers, Yudhishthira probed further, "Do my brothers listen to you, Uncle?"

With an air of responsibility and duty, Vidur gently admonished, "It is not appropriate to ask a representative such questions. Nevertheless, since you have posed the inquiry, it is my obligation to provide an answer. In terms of their physical well-being, they are in good health. I am grateful for the King's benevolence, and the princes do not oppose me. I serve the King with utmost loyalty. They have tasked me with inquiring about your well-being and extending an invitation from Hastinapur. Crown Prince Duryodhana wishes to engage in a friendly game of dice with you."

Devika, voicing her apprehension, interjected, "But Uncle, do you not realize that dice has a destructive nature? It is a weapon capable of driving even brothers apart."

Vidur, acknowledging her concern, replied, "Even in your presence, my Queen, the roots of all evil remain embedded in the game of dice."

Turning to Vidur, Devika sought clarity, "Did you convey your thoughts to Father?"

With sagacity, Vidur replied, "Your father possesses astute discernment, my Queen."

Yudhishthira, his enthusiasm for the dice game evident, asserted, "Dice may be the root of all evil, but a friendly game does not equate to gambling. Furthermore, I seek to prove to Uncle Shakuni that my victory in Indraprastha was not a mere stroke of luck. I won because I am a skilled player."

"Indeed, there are no skilled players when it comes to the game of dice. It is the dice itself that holds dominion over all," Vidur affirmed with conviction.

Devika, fully in agreement, added her support. "Uncle's words ring true. The game of dice leaves no room for mastery or expertise."

Vidur smiled at his niece's understanding and continued the conversation. "You are wise, Devika, to acknowledge the wisdom of your uncle. However, as a warrior and a man bound by honor, Yudhishthira cannot simply reject a challenge, whether it be the call to war or the invitation to play dice. He wishes to convey his acceptance to Father, Dhritarashtra. Moreover, it will provide you with an opportunity to revisit Hastinapur, my queen."

Yudhishthira, brimming with excitement, interjected, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "Indeed, I cannot bring myself to hurt Duryodhana by refusing his invitation. If he desires to engage in a game of dice, I shall honor his request and journey to Hastinapur for this momentous occasion."

Yudhishthira then turned to Vidur, urging him to stay by his side for a while longer, wanting to savor the company and guidance of his wise uncle. Vidur, acknowledging the request, agreed to remain in Yudhishthira's presence.

The following day, Vidur embarked on his journey toward Hastinapur, carrying the crucial message of acceptance for the game of dice. With steadfast determination, he set forth, knowing that the fate of kingdoms and the course of history hinged upon the successful delivery of this message to the halls of Hastinapur.

***

"Oh, my valiant army, after this, I shall never again burden you with my requests. I shall release you from my grasp forever. This marks the culmination of my revenge. The downfall of the Pandavas commences now. Oh, my army, aid me in conquering this game, just one more time," Shakuni murmured, his gaze fixed upon his mystical dice.

Duryodhana entered his uncle's chambers and inquired, "Uncle, what are you doing?"

"I am bolstering the morale of my army. My victory hinges upon their support," Shakuni replied, his voice tinged with determination.

"But doesn't everything rely on luck?" Duryodhana questioned.

"No, my dear nephew. Only those destined to lose put their faith solely in luck. A true master of the game understands the dance of the dice, foreseeing their every move. They possess the skill to thwart their opponent at every turn. Besides, one plays to win, focusing on the end goal. Remember, Duryodhana, it is the outcome that matters, not the means employed. Concepts of justice and injustice hold no significance. Did Indian tradition truly do justice to your father?" Shakuni imparted his wisdom to his nephews.

"No," Duryodhana answered firmly.

"Even Bhishma, a witness to the injustice, remained silent. This time, Bhishma has quietly aligned himself with the Pandavas. Hence, you lost half of your ancestral kingdom, akin to the fading twilight robbing us of sunlight. Vidur, too, plays the game of ethics with finesse, but I shall outwit him. These dice, guard them diligently. They represent your victory. When the game commences, hand them to me and instruct me to play on your behalf, utilizing these dice. This way, none can accuse me of treachery," Shakuni explained, well aware that he would not be allowed to use his own dice.

"I do not comprehend," Duryodhana confessed.

"Vidur will not permit me to employ my dice. However, you need not worry. You need not endure sleepless nights any longer. Now, sleep in tranquility. It is the Pandavas and their allies who shall toss and turn restlessly. Emperor Yudhishthira, treachery is its own deity. It worships itself and is haunted by its own sins. Fear feeds upon itself, fearing its own existence," Shakuni proclaimed, his laughter echoing through the chambers.

***

"They agreed to come, and yet you returned? Do you not realize that for Shakuni, dice is not mere play but a war?" Bhishma bellowed at his nephew.

"He wishes to emerge victorious in this war," Vidur responded, referring to both Shakuni and Yudhishthira.

"Duryodhana shall play," Bhishma declared.

"Yes, Duryodhana shall play, but it shall be Shakuni who shall cast the dice," Vidur confirmed.

"Enough of your 'buts'! Cease raising objections," Bhishma retorted angrily.

"Kings wage wars, but it is their armies that engage in battle. Do not make the mistake of blurring this distinction," Vidur calmly explained.

"Indeed, as the king's representative, you have your limitations. However, remember that you are not only the Prime Minister but also their uncle. As someone loyal to Hastinapur, should you not have warned Yudhishthira? To whom do your loyalties lie? Hastinapur? Dhritarashtra?" Bhishma demanded of Vidur.

"It is not a matter of loyalty," Vidur clarified.

"I even accepted the partition, hoping it would ease the tension within the family. I allowed the injustice upon the Pandavas because I knew that Dhritarashtra held a single dream close to his heart-that Duryodhana should succeed him," Bhishma confessed.

"Only Karna can put a stop to this. Let us hope that Karna and Madirakshi return swiftly," Vidur expressed.

"For the first time, you have disappointed me. I no longer possess the strength to bear the weight of Hastinapur's curse. Whoever triumphs in this game of dice, Hastinapur shall be the ultimate loser," Bhishma uttered, tears streaming down his face.

***

Yudhishthira, Devika, and the four brothers arrived in Hastinapur accompanied by Kunit.

"Hail Emperor Yudhishthira!" exclaimed the soldiers stationed at the entrance of Hastinapur's royal gate, saluting in unison.

"Accept the salutations of your sons, my king," Yudhishthira addressed Dhritarashtra.

"I bestow upon my emperor-son my blessings for success and a long life," Dhritarashtra responded.

"Now, let us proceed to the Recreation Palace, where I shall engage in a game of dice with my elder brother, Yudhishthira," Duryodhana declared. The males made their way toward the Recreation Palace, while Devika departed for a ceremonial bath. Gandhari and Kunti accompanied Bhanumati, Amrita, and Meenakshi to a secluded area for their private conversations.