Anya, Balaram, and Subhadra finally arrived at the grand gates of Hastinapur. The city was even more splendid than Anya had imagined, with its towering castle walls adorned with carvings and its grand entrance that spoke of power and history. As their chariot rolled to a stop, Anya's eyes darted around, taking in the imposing figures gathered to welcome them.

Queen Gandhari stood at the forefront, holding a traditional thali filled with flowers, rice, and incense. Her gentle smile, combined with the regal air of a mother and matriarch, made Anya feel an instant warmth toward her. King Dhritarashtra, his face stern but kind, seemed to be listening attentively to the whispers and greetings around him. Beside him stood Vidur, his observant eyes seeming to assess every detail of the newcomers.

On the left side stood several young, handsome men, clearly the princes of Hastinapur. The first was a tall, muscular man, his demeanor stern and imposing. Anya noticed he barely smiled until Balaram looked his way, prompting a polite, almost reluctant smile. Next to him was a strikingly beautiful man with an amiable expression, his sparkling earrings catching the sunlight. Further to the left, an older man with a crooked leg wore a wide, sly smile that seemed to hint at hidden intentions.

Balaram, ever the charismatic presence, greeted everyone with confidence. "Ah, Rajmata Gandhari, it is a joy to see you again! I trust Hastinapur remains prosperous and strong"

Gandhari smiled warmly, "Gurudev Balaram, your presence is an honor. Hastinapur flourishes as always. How are things in Dwarka?"

Balaram chuckled. "Dwarka is thriving, Rajmata. Krishna's guidance ensures it so."

Vidur stepped forward, his expression inquisitive. "shree Balaram, it has been too long. Your visits always bring fresh energy to our halls."

Balaram grinned. "Indeed, Vidur ji! Visiting Hastinapur feels like returning to old friends."

Turning to King Dhritarashtra, Balaram gave a respectful bow. "Maharaj Dhritarashtra, thank you for this warm welcome. Your hospitality is unmatched, as always."

Dhritarashtra smiled slightly, nodding. "Balaram, it is always a pleasure to have you here. You bring a lightness that our halls greatly benefit from."

With the formal greetings complete, Balaram turned toward Subhadra and Anya, introducing them with a broad smile. "And these are my sisters. Subhadra, as you all know, needs no introduction and this is Anya " Subhadra stepped forward gracefully, bowed, and then hugged Dushala, who was clearly familiar with her.

All eyes turned to Anya. Feeling the weight of everyone's gaze, she took a deep breath, clutched the hem of her gown, and stepped forward. Recalling a scene from a webtoon, she bowed low and gracefully, attempting to mimic the refined manners of a noble lady.

"Greetings, Rajmata Gandhari, Maharaj Dhritarashtra, and Vidur ji," Anya began, her voice steady. "I am honored to be in your esteemed presence."

Everyone seemed surprised, particularly Balaram and Subhadra, who exchanged wide-eyed glances.

Gandhari's smile grew wider. "Welcome, dear Anya. I must say, your manners are quite impressive."

Anya's face lit up, and she decided to flatter a bit more. Turning to Gandhari, she said, "Rajmata Gandhari, your wisdom and grace are known far and wide. I have always admired how you have guided this great family with such strength and love."

Gandhari's smile softened, clearly touched. "You are kind, my dear. I see you have a warm heart."

Next, Anya turned to Dhritarashtra. "Maharaj Dhritarashtra, I have heard so much about your fairness and wisdom as a ruler. Even without sight, you have guided this kingdom with a vision greater than most."

Dhritarashtra nodded, visibly pleased. "Your words are generous, Anya. I welcome you to Hastinapur."

Not missing a beat, Anya turned to Vidur. "Vidur ji, your intelligence and fairness are legendary. I hope I will have the opportunity to learn from you during my stay here."

Vidur, impressed by her grace, smiled. "You are most welcome, Anya. I am sure you will bring much joy and learning to our halls."

As Anya finished her introduction, murmurs of approval spread through the crowd. Everyone seemed impressed by her poise and eloquence - everyone except Balaram and Subhadra, who were whispering furiously to each other.

Subhadra leaned closer to Balaram, whispering, "Is this really our Anya? The same one who caused chaos in Dwarka?"

Balaram shook his head in disbelief. "I don't know... but at least she's behaving. For now."

Meanwhile, Anya caught sight of Dhritarashtra and, unable to contain her curiosity, blurted out, "Maharaj, I have a question for you!"

Balaram's face immediately tensed up, a cold sweat breaking out on his forehead. Knowing Anya's unpredictable nature, he quickly interjected, "Anya, my dear, you must be tired from the journey. Aren't you hungry? Wouldn't you like something to eat?"

At the mention of food, Anya's eyes sparkled with excitement. She straightened up and, with a comically exaggerated attempt to remain composed, replied in an overly refined manner, "Oh, yes, quite right, dau! I would very much appreciate a meal. Please, show me the way."

The attempt to maintain her polite facade cracked slightly as her stomach gave a loud, embarrassing rumble. Balaram sighed with a mixture of relief and amusement. "Well, then, let us not keep you waiting!"

As the group made their way to the dining hall, most of the royal family members excused themselves to attend to their respective duties. King Dhritarashtra, along with Vidur, had royal matters to discuss, and the princes - Duryodhan, Karna, and Shakuni - left to attend to their own affairs. Only Rajmata Gandhari and Dushala remained, joining Anya, Balaram, and Subhadra for dinner.

The dining hall of Hastinapur was grand, with high ceilings, intricate carvings, and a long table set with a variety of delicious dishes. Anya's eyes widened at the sight of the spread. She saw various platters filled with delicacies - fragrant rice, richly spiced curries, freshly baked bread, and an assortment of fruits and sweets. The aroma filled the air, making her stomach rumble audibly once more.

Anya took her seat beside Subhadra, with Balaram seated across from them. Rajmata Gandhari sat at the head of the table, and Dushala took a place beside her. The atmosphere was warm and relaxed, and Anya felt a little less nervous now that the room wasn't crowded with the intimidating presence of all the royals.

Rajmata Gandhari looked at Anya with a smile. "I hope you find our meal to your liking, Anya."

Anya, still trying to keep up her noble facade, smiled politely and replied, "Rajmata, I am certain that any meal prepared under your guidance would be nothing short of exquisite." She then added with a wink, "And besides, I've heard that the food in Hastinapur is legendary."

Gandhari chuckled softly. "You flatter me, dear. But I appreciate your kind words."

Dushala, amused by Anya's changing demeanor, asked, "So, Anya, how do you like Hastinapur so far?"

Anya, in an attempt to maintain her composed persona, replied, "Oh, Hastinapur is truly magnificent! The grandeur of the palace, the richness of its culture, and the kindness of its people - it all exceeds my wildest expectations."

Subhadra, trying to hide her laughter, whispered to Balaram, "She's really putting on a show."

Balaram sighed, leaning in to whisper back, "At least she hasn't caused any trouble... yet."

Anya continued, turning to Gandhari. "Rajmata, I must say, your elegance and wisdom are reflected in every corner of this palace. It's like walking through a living testament to your strength and grace."

Gandhari smiled again, clearly enjoying the flattery. "You are too kind, Anya. I can see why Balaram speaks so fondly of you."

Balaram, trying not to laugh, muttered under his breath, "Fondly, yes... cautiously, definitely."

Meanwhile, Anya continued eating, trying her best to use delicate, ladylike manners, but as more delicious dishes were served, her restraint began to slip. She would take small bites at first, nodding with appreciation, but soon, she couldn't help herself. She reached for more bread, dipped it generously in the curry, and ate with a gusto that betrayed her earlier refined demeanor.

Dushala giggled softly and leaned over to Gandhari. "She's delightful, isn't she, Rajmata? So full of life."

Gandhari nodded with a gentle smile. "Yes, indeed. It's refreshing to see someone so unburdened by courtly airs."

Anya, now fully immersed in her meal, forgot to keep up her act. She leaned back in her chair, sighed happily, and exclaimed, "This is the best food I've ever tasted! I could eat this every day!"

Balaram, chuckling, nudged her under the table. "Anya, remember your manners."

Anya quickly straightened up, coughed to regain her composure, and said in an exaggeratedly refined tone, "Oh, yes, of course. I mean, this banquet is truly... splendid."

Rajmata Gandhari and Dushala exchanged amused glances. It was clear that Anya's genuine nature, mixed with her attempts at nobility, was both endearing and entertaining to them.

As the dinner continued, Anya found herself feeling more at ease. The formality of the occasion was fading, replaced by a comfortable atmosphere where she could be herself. She realized that perhaps, in this grand palace of Hastinapur, there was room for both her refined side and her spirited, genuine self.

And so, as they finished their meal, Anya looked around at the smiling faces and thought to herself, "Maybe this adventure in Hastinapur won't be so hard after all... or maybe, it's just begun."