‘“What is the problem, King Shishu-pala?” asked Narada.
‘“There are many illustrious kings and princes gathered here...” Shishu began very quietly, and I remember that as he was speaking I could hear the c***k of Krishna’s rings as he picked up his silver goblet. “There are many venerable elders of the kshatriya caste, far exceeding Krishna in seniority of years. The Grandsire is present among us, undefeated in battle, unrivalled in fortitude. His authority and righteousness make dwarves of us all. Without Lord Bhishma, Hastinapura would be in ruins, Indraprastha but a dream in another world. Can Krishna even hope to rival his deeds in battle? King Dhrita-rashtra is also present, by whose gracious leave King Yudhi-sthira has been permitted to elevate his kingdom above his, and above all o
