________________
The Invasion
247
had to set off to the North. Anjali and Shambal stood waiting for Virdev on the bank of the moat. Midnight was approaching. Just then, an arrow whizzed past the ear of Virdev. At once, he hurriedly ran into a grove of trees nearby and took up his bow and arrow. Within a few moments, soldiers on elephants passed by. There were countless elephants but there was no noise of any kind. At once, Virdev was overwhelmed with joy. His elation knew no bounds. The King of Ayodhya, had arrived. He proceeded into the grove of trees, and stood there. He saw the King of Ayodhya in a high and resplendent chariot. As soon as he came out of the clump of trees, he was surrounded by the soldiers of Ayodhya. Suddenly, King Dasarath's eyes fell upon Virdev. But on account of the darkness of the night, he could not fully recognise him.
"Bind him and bring him here !” said Dasarath. Within a moment Virdev was brought to his presence. "Who are you?”
"I am myself, oh King !"
“Who ? Virdev ?" Dasarath recognized him by his voice. As soon as he gave a sign, the soldiers moved away.
“Yes, my king! At your service". "Is everything all right ?” “Yes, by the grace of Bhagwan Rishabhdev”. “Now, what is your plan ?”
“Oh Lord ! You have to explain your plans to me. I will act upon them.”
"No, Virdev ! From today, the responsibility of leading the campaign against Magadha lies on your shoulders. You are our commander, in this war”.
"Every plan and battle-formation will have to be made by you. You will have to supervise and guide the whole campaign.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org