History of the Madanapala Book 3: Diplomacy
Krishna often held court on warm spring days under a Neem tree in a garden that overlooked the Mother Ganges. His divan was topped with heavily embroidered pillows that depicted tiger hunts. Arjuna, his foreign minister and friend, usually stood three steps away.
Krishna: Arjuna, Any news from our embassies east and west?
Arjuna: Alas no my Lord. There has been no word from Adi these many weeks since he last sent word by pigeon that they were only a week from the Riben capital. I fear for them and the peace and trade we seek.
Krishna: And of the Bulgarian Caliphate?
Arjuna: Again, sire, no word. The last we heard was that their boat had docked at Basra, they had lodged in Damascus and that all was well as they started off to the coast. What is your desire my Lord?
Krishna: I shall consult. How soon can you assemble my…ah….my group…my advisors of great renown and expertise?
Arjuna: Two days hence for the full assembly. Some are abroad on errands. Three quarters by lunch tomorrow.
Krishna: Then lunch tomorrow it shall be. Alert my queen, I wish sweet Babajan to join us.
Arjuna: It shall be done.