Conspiracy between Cumbha and Pragjyotisha kingdom

With confidence, Kartikey explained his perspective to Shand. "My dear Shand, if you think that Aryan Bahubali's ambition is only limited to reuniting the six sibling kingdoms, as Paundraka did, then you are too naive. Aryan's ambitions are vast, and his takeover of half of Magadh is a testament to his grand designs. As soon as he secures Cumbha, he will set his sights on other neighboring kingdoms."

The prime minister listened attentively to his king's reasoning, beginning to understand the broader implications. He inquired, "So you believe that the other kingdoms also recognize Aryan's ambitions and are willing to form an alliance against him?"

Kartikey nodded confidently. "Precisely. Aryan's actions have garnered attention, not just within our sibling kingdoms but far beyond. It's only a matter of time before others see the need to unite against him. By reaching out to King Bhagadatta of Pragjyotisha, we can position ourselves strategically, seeking external help while also reinforcing our defenses."

Shand considered his king's words, realizing that the situation was indeed complex. The prospect of uniting against Aryan Bahubali, whose influence continued to expand, appeared to be a prudent move. However, the uncertain response from Pragjyotisha and the potential risks associated with the decision weighed heavily on his mind.

With a sense of duty, Shand acknowledged King Kartikey's strategy. "Very well, your majesty. I will send a messenger to Pragjyotisha, seeking an audience with King Bhagadatta and presenting our case. We will hope for the best."

King Kartikey's determined expression reflected his unwavering confidence. The wheels of a broader conflict were set in motion, with various kingdoms preparing for the inevitable challenges posed by Aryan Bahubali's ambitions.

Meanwhile back in Hastinapur, although Duryodhan and Shakuni suffered a little setback after Aryan kidnapped Dushala and failed to establish an alliance with Jayadarath, but under Shakuni's guidance Duryodhan used this matter to defame Bhisma and the Pandavas and called them incompetent for not even being able to stop just two men. 

So, using their tactics Duryodhan and Shakuni successful turned disaster into opportunity and finally today, they managed to succeed in the first step of their plan as the Pandavas and their mother Kunti were departing for Varnavrata. 

"Uncle Shakuni, looks like the day I will be crowned as the next crown prince is not far away. "

Duryodhan sneered secretly. 

"Of course my nephew, after this New Moon night /Amavasya, the last trace of your uncle Pandu's family will be erased from this world and with that the darkness in your life will also be removed for forever. "

Shakuni said slyly as he looked at the backs of the Pandavs and their mother Kunti. 

"But uncle Shakuni, there is one more thing that's been on my mind for the past few days. "

Speaking of this, Duryodhan's face turned gloomy. 

"What happened my nephew? "

Shakuni asked in confusion having no idea what Duryodhan was brooding about. 

"It's that Udra naresh Aryan Bahubali. Because of that guy, I was forced to apologize to someone like Shishupal and bear his insult. Not to mention that everyone thinks that I'm a coward for not even being able to protect my own sister from being kidnapped. "

Duryodhan said while gritting his teeth in anger. 

Seeing this Shakuni immediately stepped forward to palacate his anger and calm him down. 

"I can understand your feelings my nephew but that guy is too strong. It's very unwise to make an enemy out of him. Don't forget that even Arjun and Mahaamahim Bhishma were defeated by him. "

But Duryodhan didn't seem to buy it and snorted in disdain. 

"Hmph, I know that Uncle Shakuni, but I doubt whether Pitamah Bhishma even used his full power in the battle. I didn't see any injury on his body when we reached there. For all we know, Pitamah Bhishma's heart might have melted or may be he just wanted to get back at us for insulting him in the court and thus surrendered intentionally. "

"To be honest my nephew, I also doubt that cunning Bhishma. But still Aryan easily defeated Bheem and Arjun in the tournament back then, right in front of our own eyes and that was very much real. So it doesn't matter whether he really defeated Bhishma or not but unless you can find someone stronger than Bheem and Arjun, it's impossible to do anything against him. "

Shakuni used reason to dissuade Duryodhan from doing anything stupid. 

But Duryodhan seemed to have already decided in his heart and didn't want to listen to his advice. 

"I also considered this Uncle Shakuni. If humans can't defeat him then what about non humans ? "

"Non - humans ? Don't tell me Duryodhan....."

Shakuni paused in shock and looked up at Duryodhan. 

"Yes Uncle Shakuni, I have sought help from one of my friends Naga Raj Takshak to take care of Aryan Bahubali. In return, I will give him Varnavrat as a gift to enjoy his feast after Pandavs are killed, killing two birds with one stone. After all, Takshak will take care of Purochan and other people who were involved in this conspiracy, thus completely erasing all evidence that might lead back to us while also taking care of Aryan Bahubali. "

Duryodhan explained his plan with a smile. 

"Well, that, is indeed a good plan Duryodhan. But how did you end up befriending Naga king Takshak? "

Shakuni asked curiously. 

"Well, one time I inadvertently saved the life of his son Ashwasena when he was a child and wandered out of the Khandav forest. "

Duryodhan replied calmly. 

"Good, so when exactly is Takshak going to take action? "

Shakuni, though taken aback by Duryodhan's bold strategy, recognized its potential and inquired about the timing of Takshak's intended action. 

"I received information from my spies that currently Aryan Bahubali has just won a war against Vanga kingdom and he is going to target Cumbha kingdom soon too. Thus I plan to wait till this war is over before striking at him since this war can help us wear his strength down a little. This Takshak is also going to act on this New Moon night, the same day that Purochan is going to set fire to Lakshyagriha in Varnavrat, thus taking out all of my enemies in one go. "

Duryodhan replied with a wicked smile. 

The dark scheming between Duryodhan and Shakuni was fraught with implications for the future. While their immediate plans involved manipulating events during the Varnavrata festival, their deeper intentions pointed towards the removal of their enemies, the Pandavas, and the elimination of potential threats such as Aryan Bahubali.