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Planning The Invasion Of Magadha
203
When the Chief Minister received a secret message sent by Dasarath from Kautukmangal, he thought about it deeply. Shrishen thought that Dasarath had taken a proper decision in planning to conquer Magadha. Therefore he began to search for able and capable warriors who could be of help in the campaign.
There were many capable and intelligent men in Ayodhya each surpassing the other, but the Chief Minister could think of only Virdev who was in the ashram of Shivbhadra. He placed his idea before Acharya Shivbhadra. The Acharya at once, approved of Shrishen's proposal. Virdev also showed his readiness to render the necessary service in the campaign. In consequence, Shrishen explained to him the first phase of the action; and sent him to Kautukmangal to meet King Dasarath. Travelling a long distance for many days he reached Kautukmangal. Leaving his horse in the cool shadow of a tree at a short distance from the palace, he went to meet Dasarath.
After Virdev went away Kaikayi looked towards Dasarath. "Dear Queen! He has come from Ayodhya”.
"He is the very image of heroism. He looks radiant with valour".
“The Chief Minister has sent him on a special purpose”. “Will not the Chief Minister come ?"
"No. He will reach Magadha”.
"That means...... ?"
"The Chief Minister will go to Magadha with five thousand invincible soldiers; and will enter Magadha secretly. He will collect information about the state of political and strategic affairs there and will prepare the ground for our invasion."
“The King's farsightedness is really commendable”.
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