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Ram And Lakshman
269
"But what oh, noble one ?”
"But it is absolutely necessary that all of you should come to Ayodhya".
“Why ?"
The prince's question grieved the Chief Minister. At once, there appeared gloom on the radiant face of the Chief Minister. His eyes welled up with tears. He began to watch with absorption through the window, the mountains that lay at a great distance from Rajgrihi.
"Dear Prince ! Till now many Kings of the Ikshyaku dynasty have occupied the throne of Ayodhya but that throne has been vacant for some years. From the time, King Dasarath left Ayodhya, the people of Ayodhya have been unhappy and agitated. ..... Moreover..."
“What else, dear Chief Minister ?” Queen Aparajita asked eagerly.
"Oh Queen! Now, even I am old and weak. Old age has enfeebled me. I do not know when this life of mine may end"
"Please do not say so, dear Chief Minister. Ayodhya still greatly needs your able and noble services.” Aparajita spoke with tenderness.
"Noble Queen! As long as there is life in this body, it will dedicate itself to the service of Ayodhya. I have become a part and parcel of Ayodhya. But I feel again and again that nature; may not allow this relationship to continue for long".
"Oh you venerable one! We have heard from our father and mother many thrilling stories of your splendid service to Ayodhya. For many years, in the absence of my father, you have taken care of the throne of Ayodhya with incomparable ability, wisdom and loyalty. We are greatly impressed with your ability, dedication, intelligence, your astonishing valour; and your tremendous honesty. These things will make you immortal. Moreover, Ayodhya will always remember all your extraordinary services".
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