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174
Adipurana
The envoy, who was neither too young nor too old, mounted a suitable chariot and set out for his destination with a humble demeanor. He was accompanied by a loyal servant, who carried all the necessary provisions for the journey, and who was also a close friend. The envoy thought to himself, "If he speaks favorably, I will respond in kind without boasting. If he speaks of war, I will strive to prevent it." He further reasoned, "If he desires a treaty or a gift, I am in agreement. But if he seeks to conquer the emperor, I will fight back with all my might and return swiftly." He considered the prosperity of his own side and the adversity of the other, and remained impenetrable to the schemes of other ministers due to his ability to keep his own counsel. Fearing treachery, he slept alone in a secluded spot at his encampment, and continued his journey, observing the battlefields and escape routes. He traversed many lands, rivers, and borders, and after many nights, arrived at the city of Podanapura, the capital of Bahubali. Upon reaching the outskirts of the city, he was delighted to see the beautiful, fertile land, with its fields of ripe rice. He saw the stalks of rice, laden with fruit, and guarded by farmers, and thought to himself, "These people are very self-interested." He saw the farmers, dancing with joy, their sickles raised high, celebrating the harvest. He heard the sounds of their laughter and merriment, and he was filled with a sense of peace. The emperor Bharat had sent a messenger, a man of great strength, to Bahubali. This messenger was a "nisrishtaarthe dooth," meaning that he was entrusted with the responsibility of achieving the emperor's objectives. He was a loyal servant who acted according to the situation, always protecting the emperor's interests.