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The Invasion
245
Somaprabha, the valiant Chief Minister of Mithila was proceeding towards Rajgrihi with five thousand warriors, taking care to see that the silence of the night was not disturbed. He was coming from the western side. Before midnight, he reached his destination safely. As soon as he arrived at his destination, there appeared a human form who seemed to be able-bodied, magnificent and intelligent with a shining sword in his hand. He said in a serious voice.
"I think you are Chief Minister Somaprabh”.
Somaprabh was greatly amazed to hear his name uttered hy that unknown person who was standing before him. He took out his sword from the sheath which had been studded with gems. On seeing his action, the stranger laughed loudly. Somaprabh turned pale for a moment hearing his loud laughter.
"Well, well. Please follow me in this condition”. "But who are you?” said Somaprabha staring at him.
In response to this, the stranger again laughed aloud. After a moment's silence, the stranger said :
"I am Virdev”.
"Oh !”
Somaprabha and Virdev at once moved towards each other and embraced each other.
"Dear Virdev! What are your commands to me ?” said Somaprabha in a humorous manner.
"Not commands, my dear Lord; but plans". "Well. Tel me at least what your plans are”. "About three hours before dawn you must enter Rajgrihi”. "Anything else ?"
"At the time of your entering the city you will have with you your army of five thousand soldiers and my army of five
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