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## The Thirteenth Chapter
Then, the Samantas of Indra, filled with sorrow for their lord, arrived at Ravana's palace, led by Sahasrar. ||1|| They entered, respectfully informed the gatekeepers, and stood bowing, seated as befitting their status. ||2|| Ravana, with great dignity, looked upon Sahasrar. Sahasrar said to Ravana, "You have conquered my son Indra. Now, release him at my request." ||3|| "You have shown the greatness of your arms and your virtue. It is the nature of kings to crush the pride of others." ||4|| This very word, clear and echoing, arose from the mouths of the Lokapalas. ||5|| Ravana, laughing, said to the Lokapalas, "There is a condition. Only by fulfilling this condition will I release Indra." ||6|| "From today onwards, all of you shall perform the duties of my city, both inside and outside. ||7|| You shall keep this city free from dust, impurities, stones, grass, and thorns every day." ||8|| "Indra, too, shall take a pitcher and water the earth with fragrant water. This is his well-known duty in the world." ||9|| "And the adorned, dignified goddesses shall decorate the city with fragrant flowers of five colors." ||10|| "If you agree to these conditions with respect, I will release Indra. Otherwise, how can he be released?" ||11|| Saying this, Ravana looked at the Lokapalas, his head bowed in shame, and laughed repeatedly, striking his hand against his palm. ||12|| Then, with humility, he said to Sahasrar, his words like nectar, captivating the hearts of the assembly. ||13|| "O father! Just as you are revered by Indra, so am I. In fact, even more so. Therefore, how can I disobey your command?" ||14||