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218
JAIN RAMAYAN
"Dearest! To-day, I am going to test your love for me", Sumitra said, having been silent for a few moments.
"My lord! I am ready to face any test at your hands. Love shines brightest only when it is tested with the touchstone; only then will its true lustre become evident; and only then does its radiance increase". Vanamala said in a humble manner, speaking with overflowing love for her husband.
"Then why delay? You go to my friend, Prabhav and live with him fulfilling his desires".
"I humbly abide by your wish! You are the lord of my life; and I have no other desire than to act according to your wishes".
And within a short time, she wore colourful garments and ornaments and went away to the house of Prabhav.
Dense darkness had enveloped the earth. Nothing was visible in that darkness. Only stars twinkled in the sky giving out a dim light. Prabhav's palace also was completely enveloped in the darkness. There was no stir or noise anywhere. Lights were burning in the house. Prabhav was walking to and fro lost in deep thought in his chamber. There was only a dim light in his chamber. Countless thoughts and feelings were rising in his mind. He was walking up and down in deep agitation. Sometimes, he looked about and again he began walking to and fro. Just then, he heard a slight sound at the door of his sleeping chamber; and then he noticed Vanamala walking in with noiseless steps. The noise of her anklets seemed to wake up from a long sleep.
"Who are you? Why have you come at this time?" "Vanamala !"
On hearing her tender voice, Prabhav was startled. For a few moments he stood still and motionless like a stone image. He felt as if the four walls of his room, the ground beneath his feet and the whole chamber were reeling round and round.
"The king has dedicated me to you
kindly accept me".
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