Five months had passed since Bahubali and Dushala's marriage, and Magadha stood transformed, its prosperity radiating under their joint rule.
The grand Mahadev Mandir, a towering testament to Bahubali's devotion, was complete, its marble spires gleaming under the sun, adorned with intricate carvings of Shiva's cosmic dance.
Invitations for its consecration on Maha Shivaratri, a week hence, had been sent on silk scrolls to the kings of Aryavrat—Hastinapur, Anga, Kalinga, Dwarka, Indraprastha, and beyond.
The city of Magadha buzzed with preparations, streets lined with lamps and banners, as citizens anticipated the sacred event.
At the palace gates, Bahubali, Dushala, his parents Abhiram and Sumitra, Minister Sahadeva, and his wife stood ready to welcome the Hastinapur royals.
As the golden chariots of Hastinapur rolled to a stop, King Dhritarashtra, Queen Gandhari, Crown Prince Duryodhana, Princess Bhanumati, Shakuni, and the Kaurava brothers—Dushasana, Vikarna, Yuyutsu, and others—dismounted, their silks shimmering in the morning light.
Bahubali stepped forward, bowing deeply. "Pranipat, Maharaj Dhritarashtra, Maharani Gandhari, Yuvraj Suyodhana, and noble Kurus. Magadha is honored by your presence for the Mahadev Mandir's consecration. Welcome to our home."
Dhritarashtra, his voice warm despite his blindness, replied, "Pranipat, Magadha Naresh Bahubali, Maharani Dushala. Your invitation is a joy, and this temple's opening unites our kingdoms in Mahadev's grace. Hastinapur stands with you."
Dushala, her eyes glistening, rushed to Gandhari, embracing her tightly, happy tears streaming down her face. "Mata, I've missed you so much! Magadha is my home, but my heart aches for Hastinapur's love."
Gandhari, veiled, cupped her daughter's face, her voice tender. "My child, your joy is my peace. Magadha shines under your care, but Hastinapur's heart is always yours. Dry your tears—you're our pride."
Dushala turned to Duryodhana, Dushasana, and her brothers, hugging them fiercely. "Bhaiya Suyodhana, Dushasana, Vikarna, all of you—I've missed your laughter, your teasing, your strength! How is Hastinapur without me to keep you in check?" Her voice quivered, but her smile was bright.
Duryodhana, grinning, hugged her back. "Dushala Hastinapur's quieter without your mischief, but we're here now, aren't we? No more tears—let's celebrate your new home and this grand temple!"
Dushasana chuckled, wiping her cheek. "You're a queen now, but still our crybaby sister! We've brought gifts to cheer you up!"
Vikarna added softly, "Your letters spoke of Magadha's wonders, but seeing you so happy is our true gift."
Bhanumati, stepping forward, embraced Dushala warmly. "Nanad, you're radiant as Magadha's queen! I've missed our chats—Suyodhana's no match for our wit!"
Dushala laughed, her tears fading. "Bhabhi, you must teach me your Kalinga recipes to keep Bahu fed!"
Shakuni, his smile sly, bowed. "Pranipat, Maharani Dushala. Your grace elevates Magadha, and this union strengthens us all. I look forward to the temple's splendor." Dushala nodded politely.
Curious, Dushala asked, "Bhaiya, where are Kakashri Vidura and Pitamaha Bhishma? I hoped they'd join us for Mahadev's blessing."
Duryodhana's face softened, his voice reassuring. "They send their love, Dushala, but someone had to stay in Hastinapur to oversee the kingdom's daily affairs. They'll visit soon, I promise."
Dushala nodded, her smile returning. "I understand. Come, let me show you to your chambers to refresh after your journey. Magadha's hospitality awaits!"
Sahadeva's wife, alongside palace attendants, led the guests to opulent rooms adorned with silk drapes and fresh flowers, where sandalwood paste and cool water awaited.
As the Hastinapur royals settled, Bahubali and Dushala stood together, watching the city prepare for Maha Shivaratri.
Bahubali's voice was soft, his hand on hers. "Dushala, are you happy now?"
Dushala squeezed his hand, her voice warm. "Bahu, with you and my family here, my heart is full. Let's make this Maha Shivaratri a celebration Aryavrat will never forget."
The palace buzzed with anticipation, the stage set for a divine consecration that would unite kingdoms and honor Mahadev, as Magadha prepared to welcome its guests for a week of sacred festivities.