The parrot returned to Jambudweepa and gave a glowing account of Karpuradweepa. It was worth conquering, decided King Jewel Plume and stated his minister Doordarshi, the vulture. The King checked with the astrologer what would be a good time to go into battle. The army must be inspected and the strength of the enemy noted. It was decided that a small army commanded by efficient generals would be more effective than a huge army. The spy from Karpuradweepa heard all the details and flew back to his kingdom to inform King Silver Plume about the preparations. He also told the King that there was a spy among their own people who was giving information to Jambudweepa. “That must be the Crow,” said the minister. “But he was going to attack the parrot for rudeness,” observed Silver Plume, “Haven’t you heard of King Shudraka and his faithful servant?”
The Enemy Prepares
