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But do not worry. I will not do anything for which I can be censured. Although I could slay them all outright, I will not do so.

“It was I who killed this one, not you. Do not accuse others when you yourself are at fault. O wicked-minded wretch, you have wronged me and will therefore not escape with your life.

If he does not accept me as his wife, I will not be able to live. Do not doubt this.”

She did not doubt that He acted only for her ultimate welfare. The princess glanced across at Arjuna, who said, “O lotus-eyed lady, do not weep.

She will surely not come willingly.”

“Some men enjoy in this life but not in the next, some in the next but not in this, and others in both

Duryodhana smiled, but Karṇa was not so sure. He did not like Śakuni’s devious ways.

“Do not be afraid, O prince. This is no corpse. There are only weapons wrapped in that bundle. I would not make you perform a cursed deed, born as you are of a noble race and heir to the Matsya king

Seeing Pāṇḍu’s crestfallen condition, Kindama said, “You need not fear the sin of killing a Brahmin, as you did not know my true identity.

Yudhiṣṭhira knew that Śakuni, although more skilled at the game, could not match his wealth and was thus not a suitable opponent for him.

Kind words and gifts will not separate Him from the Pāṇḍavas’ cause. Therefore, I feel we should not offer Him wealth. Our gifts of wealth, while demeaning us, will not sway Him from His determination for war.

I am not at all pleased that the Pāṇḍavas have been sent to the forest through dishonest means. If you do not return their kingdom, then, at the end of the thirteen years, they will not have forgotten

“I have obtained this son of a king for my food and will not release him. I have not eaten for a long time and will not give up your brother. Nor do I want any other meal.”

He could not therefore accept her as his wife. She would not have asked him to marry her if her request did not somehow conform to the codes of virtue

Do not forget your promise.”

This is good, but in my opinion you are not properly motivated. You wish to win over the lord of the Yādavas by offering Him wealth, yet you will not accede to His real All your ministrations and gifts will prove useless if you do not grant Yudhiṣṭhira his rights. For sure, the all-powerful Govinda will not even cast His eyes upon your wealth. Do not bring about your sons’ destruction by your own foolishness.”

He knew Arjuna was truthful and would not kill any of his sons out of respect for Bhīma’s vow, but he would certainly not restrain himself with the rest of the Kaurava forces.

Yudhiṣṭhira called out, “Do not be afraid of this Rākṣasa, brother. I have checked his speed and I sense that Bhīma is not far away.”

Duryodhana did not bother to reply. He stood up suddenly and walked out of the room. He was not surprised to see Duryodhana’s arrogance.

“O blessed lady, O most charming one, it is not proper for me to hear you speak such words. Do not doubt what I say. O lady of sweet smiles, I did indeed gaze upon you, but not out of desire.