As the news of the Pandavas’ astonishing survival and triumph spread, the Kaurava princes were plunged into gloom and agitation. One of them, his voice heavy with defeat, lamented, “I see now that fate reigns supreme, and all our efforts are in vain. What use is human counsel or endeavor, when the Pandavas have so easily overcome us?” He continued, “The sons of Pritha have blinded us to our own schemes. After winning the hand of Drupada’s daughter, they have placed their very foot upon our pride as kings.” The memory of their failed plot stung bitterly. “How did those mere eaters of food escape the house of lac? Our strength, our courage, our intelligence—all have deserted us.” Another joined in, “Today, uncle, we are undone—along with Purocana. He perished in the very fire meant for the Pandavas, unable to burn them as planned.” They brooded over the Pandavas’ cunning, admitting, “Uncle, they are more intelligent than I. If they could escape that deadly blaze, what danger can possibly threaten them now?” As they discussed their failure, blaming Purocana, they also spoke of the woman with five sons, the hunter’s wife, and Vidura the wise, whose roles in the Pandavas’ escape now seemed clear. Downcast and troubled, the Kauravas returned to Hastinapura, their spirits broken. Fearful and shaken, they beheld the mighty sons of Pandu—safe from the fire, now allied with Drupada. Their minds turned to Drupada’s formidable sons: Dhrishtadyumna, Shikhandin, and others, all skilled in battle. Meanwhile, Vidura, having heard how the Pandavas had won Draupadi and how the sons of Dhritarashtra had returned humbled and shamed, felt his heart swell with joy. He went to King Dhritarashtra and exclaimed, “By good fortune, the Kurus prosper!” His astonishment was sincere. King Dhritarashtra, son of Vichitravirya, heard Vidura’s words and, filled with delight, echoed, “By fortune, by fortune, O Bharata!” Yet, in his confusion, the king mistakenly believed that his own eldest son, Duryodhana, had been chosen by Drupada’s daughter. He ordered, “Bring Draupadi’s ornaments here for Krishna,” and summoned Duryodhana. Afterwards, Vidura gently reminded the king that the Kauravas were not his sons alone, but all the descendants of Kuru. “May my words bring them prosperity,” Vidura said. “The sons of Pandu, united with Krishna, have escaped the royal assembly. By fortune, O King, they are safe and honored by Drupada as well.” Hearing these words, the king, seeking to conceal his true feelings, repeated again and again, “By fortune, by fortune.” But in private, he confided, “Blessings to you, Vidura, but if the Pandavas are alive, my heart finds no joy, even in the nectar of your words. Because of their righteousness, their alliance with Drupada is most praiseworthy. I said, ‘By fortune, by great fortune,’ only to hide my true thoughts.” He continued, “Drupada, born of the noble Matsya lineage and descended from Vasu, is advanced in conduct, learning, and austerity, esteemed among kings. His sons and grandsons, all steadfast in their vows, and many powerful allies are now joined with the Pandavas. Just as Pandu’s sons are dear to me, so too—indeed, even more so—are these. Vidura, I consider this conduct superior to all others. The affection I have for the Pandavas, O mighty one, I have for no one else; this is always in my thoughts, Kshatta, and I swear by truth itself.” He tried to convince Vidura of his sincerity: “I know that your heroic sons, the Pandavas, are well and friendly with my sons, led by Duryodhana. When I heard the Pandavas had perished in the fire, I could neither eat nor sleep, consumed by grief. My sons were left without allies, like birds with clipped wings. But now, Kshatta, my sons have strong allies, and my sovereignty is secure, enduring as long as the moon and sun. For who, having gained Drupada and his kin as friends, would not wish to live, even if his fortunes had waned?” Vidura, hearing all this, replied, “May this understanding remain with you for a hundred years, O King.” With these words, Vidura departed to his own residence. But soon after, Duryodhana and Karna approached Dhritarashtra and spoke privately. “In Vidura’s presence, we could not speak openly of your fault, but now, father, we must ask—what is it that you intend to do? You see the rise of your rivals as your own gain and praise Kshatta before all. When one duty should be done, you do another; but, father, it is always necessary to weaken their strength. We must act now to ensure that the Pandavas, with their sons, strength, and allies, do not overpower us.” Thus addressed, Dhritarashtra replied to his son and to Karna, “I too wish to act as you do, but I do not want Vidura to discern my intentions. Therefore, I will especially praise their virtues, so Vidura will not suspect me. Whatever you think is appropriate, speak, Suyodhana; and Karna, tell me what you consider timely.” He added, “Today, let us divide the sons of Kunti and the Pandavas born of Madri, using skilled, loyal Brahmins as our agents. Or, let us entice King Drupada and all his ministers and sons with lavish heaps of wealth.” Thus, the house of Kuru was once again awash with schemes and counsels, as envy and rivalry continued to fester beneath the surface of royal words and alliances.