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The Mockery of Fate
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all this anguish to you by casting a baseless blame upon you; and for all this evil I am to blame. It is my fault. I have deceived you by making baseless accusations against you. I have done an irreparable damage to you. On account of my own stupidity I abandoned you; and as a consequence of my heartlessness you were about to die. For all your terrible anguish, I am the cause, Pardon me, dear goddess ! Pardon me".
Anjana could not believe her eyes or ears. She first thought that it was but a dream. When she realized that Pavananjay was actually there, she stood up. On account of joy and shyness her cheeks became red. She felt greatly thrilled and delighted; and her blood began to flow through her veins impetuously. Her heart began to beat joyously. She bowed her head; bent down and touched his feet with devotion and love.
Pavananjay made her sit beside him. For a few moments, he kept gazing on her white face which was now decked with joyous smiles. For sometime, there was absolute silence in the chamber. Prahasit and Vasant Tilaka swayed with delight. After a little while, Pavananjay said :
"My dear goddess ! Won't you pardon me ? Indeed, I am a wretched creature; otherwise, would I chide you and keep you away though you are innocent ? Won't you give me the opportunity of begging for your pardon ?" Pavananjay's voice became choked with emotion. He could not speak any more. His eyes welled up with tears.
Anjana placed her hand over his lips to indicate that he should not speak thus; and said;
"Oh Lord of my life! Do not say such things; your words pierce my heart like arrows and pain me. You are my god; and you should not speak this. I have been your slave for ages. Please do not make me a sinner by asking for my pardon. If one realizes one's mistake, it ceases to be a mistake. What else do I desire ? To-day, you have come to me and I have attained the glory of my life. I feel that I have attained everything. My austerities of countless Janmas have brought their fruit. I feel supremely blessed !"
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