Shakuni, Duhshasana, and Karna Counsel Duryodhana
Duryodhana is consumed by despair at the thought of the Pandavas returning from exile. His allies — Shakuni, Duhshasana, and Karna — try to reassure him, each offering a different kind of comfort: the promise of another gambling scheme, the certainty that the Pandavas will keep their word, and a pledge of unwavering unity.
Duryodhana sat among his closest allies and let his fear spill out. The Pandavas were in the forest, yes — bound by the terms of the dice game, sworn to thirteen years of exile. But what if they returned? What if Dhritarashtra, swayed by Vidura or by his own guilt, called them back before the term was complete? The thought hollowed him.
Shakuni spoke first. His voice was calm, almost amused. "O king, why are you falling prey to these childlike thoughts? They have gone after an agreement. Their return won't happen. The Pandavas are always established in the truth of their words. They will never accept your father's words if it means breaking their oath." And if they did return — if they somehow violated the agreement — Shakuni had an answer for that too. "We will again play, staking everything. Appearing obedient to the king and maintaining a middle position, we will protect ourselves and wait to see many weaknesses emerge in the Pandavas."
Duhshasana nodded. "O immensely intelligent maternal uncle! It will be exactly as you say. The intelligent words you utter have always pleased me."
Karna added his voice to the chorus. "O Duryodhana! All of us always try to accomplish what you desire. O king! I notice that all of us are united in our view."
Three voices, three assurances. The Pandavas would not return. And if they did, there was always another game.
Duryodhana turned his face away. Aranyaka Parva, Chapter 305