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A Strong Woman
75
The head of the city saluted the queen respectfully and retreated. As soon as he went away, the maid, Nayana came in. She said fretting; “Mahadevi, today you have not taken any food from the morning. It is now afternoon. Please take some food at least now”.
Just then, the door-keeper came in and said with irreppressible enthusiasm.
"Mahadevi! Thousands of young men wielding various weapons have gathered in the courtyard of the palace. How full of enthusiasm are they! Indeed, I do not find adequate words to describe their enthusiasm. Even old men have joined them".
"And then......?" “They are waiting for you”.
"Very good," and Simhika turned towards Nayana and said; "Nayana, please see whether my horse has been brought from the stables" and turning to the door-keeper, she said "Send them a message to be ready with their weapons. I will come by and by." Having sent away the door-keeper, she stood waiting for Nayana.
Within a short time, Nayana came back and said: “The horse and the weapons are ready", and pausing for a few moments, she said in a polite voice.
"Mahadevi !" “Yes, Nayana, what is the matter ?” "Oh Queen! I too will accompany you”.
“What do you say ? Eventhough you know that a war is not a children's game......
“Yes, dear Queen! I too wish to accompany you". "Do you know the art of war ?"
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