________________
376
JAIN RAMAYAN
every son of our country may be ready to sacrifice his life for its freedom. If anyone were to impede our efforts we shall destroy him. We shall bring all his bravado to nought so that he shall not make such an attempt again.
“Victory to King Varuna. Long live our liberty.”. These loud cries reverberated in the sky. On account of the commotion of the vast army of Varuna every inch of the earth began to shake and shudder. Prahasit stood stupefied for a few moments by the sight of the extraordinary valour and heroism of the soldiers. He went to the door-keeper and said, “I am a messenger from Pavananjay, the son of Prahlad, the king of Adityapur. I want to meet king Varuna urgently."
The door-keeper observed Prahasit carefully for sometime and then he was convinced that he was a messenger. Then he called a soldier moving a little away from the door and gave him some suggestion by means of a sign.
The soldier led him through a secret passage to the chamber of King Varuna.
“Victory to the king !” a soldier cried bowing to the king. "Jayamangal! What is the news ?”
“Oh Lord! The messenger sent by Pavananjay, the son of king Prahlad of Adityapur and the commander of Ravan, the king of Lanka desires to meet you ?" Jayamangal said in a
humble tone looking towards King Varuna. Varuna thought for - a while about the matter and then in a serious tone he said :
"Bring him here."
The soldier brought Prahasit into the chamber and then returned. Prahasit saluted king Varuna respectfully,
"Yes sir, what may be the purpose of your visit to us ?”
"Oh King you know that Ravan, the King of Lanka has made Pavananjay, the commander of his armies."
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
