________________
On the Way to the Conquest of the World
"What are you thinking of, dear brother? I think you have been plunged in some deep thoughts", said Kumbhakarna, with the brilliance of a prophet.
"Kumbhakarna! you have spoken the truth".
"Yes, my dear brother! I have learnt a little of astrology".
"And so you can make predictions; am I right?" Ravan said completing what Kumbhakarna was saying and the three brothers, at once, burst into a fit of laughter. The serious atmosphere became shaken by their laughter.
149
The moon was rising slowly from the east. The sky was calm and the air was pleasant.
"Dear brother! Again and again, a certain thought has been appearing in my mind" Ravan said, taking Kumbhakarna's hand in his hand.
"What thought is it?"
"You tell me. You are an astrologer".
"Shall I say what you are thinking of ?"
"Surely!"
"But on one condition".
"Well! What is it?"
"Assure me that you will not laugh at me when I say it".
"Agreed !"
"But who will stand surety for you".
"Vibhishan".
"Then shall I speak out?"
"Hurry up".
Kumbhakarna closed his eyes like an astrologer and muttered something to himself. He made some calculations touching his fingers with his thumb and touching his toes. It
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
