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JAIN RAMAYAN
circumstances. Of course, he was not willing to accept his condition but there was no way out. At last he came to a decision, "Let me get back to Mithila; then we can surely find a way out of this calamitous situation. Ram and Lakshman also are there. I can discuss the matter with them and adopt some method to get out of this difficulty."
In consequence, King Janak accepted Chandragati's condition. Chandragati's joy knew no bounds. Overwhelmed with joy, he embraced King Janak warmly. He ordered Chapalagati to make arrangements for King Janak's return to Mithila. Chapalagati got the airship ready. Then Chandragati, Bhamandal, Chapalagati and other Vidyadhar warriors sat in the airship. The two mighty. bows Vajravarth and Arnavavart were also carefully placed in the airship.
After travelling for a couple of hours the airship reached Mithila. King Janak alighted at the palace. Then, Chandragati and others alighted in a garden near the city and camped there.
King Janak was in great perplexity. Chandragati was staying, there as his guest whether he liked it or not. His spies were watching vigilantly every movement of his.
King Janak narrated to Queen Videha the unexpected occurrences of the previous night. Queen Videha was filled with fear and agitation. The tears began to flow from her eyes. In great anguish she said:
"What sin have I committed to deserve this deadly stroke from destiny? Why is fortune so hostile towards me? He is not satisfied with having abducted my son. Now he is trying to harm my darling daughter? What shall I do? Where shall I go? To whom shall I narrate my sorrowful story? There is no limit to my grief. We have to choose the bridegroom freely. We are Sita's parents. Can anyone choose a bridegroom by force? But our fortune is so hostile that we have to choose a bridegroom against our wishes".
"Dear Queen! Have a little courage. Be patient. Have confidence in Shri Ram's incomparable heroism and valour."
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