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The Mockery of Fate
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there will be a fruit and in such a case if you do not return in time people may think ill of me and censure me. It will be hard for me to face the world.”
“What you say is absolutely true but I will come back as soon as possible."
Pavananjay tried his best to console Anjana and to remove her fears and doubts; yet he felt that she was not satisfied. Therefore, he gave her his signet-ring which bore his name and said, "If there is some delay in my coming back and if such a situation arises you may show this ring to people as a proof of my having met you. This will prevent people from censuring you."
Anjana felt a little relieved after she received the ring from Pavananjay. Of course, the calamity that was going to occur in her life in future had already cast its shadow on her heart, but what could she do ? Pavananjay had to go at once.
After having taken leave of Anjana, Pavananjay returned to his camp on the banks of the Manas sarovar.
That night of her happy union with her husband remained a dream for Anjana. Hör fears came true. Fate showed its colours and she became pregnant. Day by day, her beautiful body began to bloom like a sublime flower. Every organ of her body assumed new dimensions and new graces and became fascinating. Within a short time it was evident to everyone that she was pregnant.
No one in the city of Adityapur knew about Pavananjay's visit to Anjana on that night and their happy union. The people knew only that long years ago, soon after marrying her Pavananjay had abandoned her and that he had completely kept away from her. Therefore, when people heard that Anjana was pregnant, they were all greatly shocked. When they heard the news they were stupefied. Step by step this news assumed the form of a rumour and spread like wild fire throughout the city. The servant-maids in the palace began to whisper to one another about it. The people of the city experienced mixed
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