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The First Halt
387
The messenger was stupefied to hear this. Pausing for a few moments, Vajrakarna said again; “I do not desire Kingship; nor do I have attachment for prosperity and power. I merely want to be free with respect to my faith. I do not desire a war; nor do I desire any hostility. Kindly release me from here so that I may go away to some other place and practise my dharma freely. Dharma is my wealth.”
The messenger's anger and excitement abated a little. He went away silently to the camp of King Simhodhar and conveyed
him Vajrakarna's message. He did not make any comments on the message but King Simhodhar who was haughty, roared angrily, "I do not care for any Dharma or Adharma. I have no faith in Punya (merit) or Pap (sin). Well. Yes. If Vajrakarna loves his life he must salute me" and he intensified his siege. The soldiers began their routine-drill and parade in the Camp. All were engaged in a top-level discussion regarding their plan to attack the fort."
The traveller completed his narration and heaved a deep sigh and said. "Oh noble hero! Even now King Simhodhar is camping at Dashangapur. The siege has not been removed. On account of King Simhodhar, this area has been deserted. Small villages and hamlets have been ruined. The poor people living in this area have run away to other places. That is why this area is deserted and desolate."
The traveller completing his narration looked towards Shri Ram and wiped the sweat from his face. For a moment Shri Ram, Lakshman and Sita kept looking at the traveller. The traveller
ing at the deserted villages and gardens with melancholy eyes. His face revealed the sadness he was experiencing at the sight. He again said.
“Yes, I forgot to mention a point. On account of this calamity I too deserted my home and went away. Please see there. Look at that small cottage standing here. That was my home.”
“But why have you come back ?” Sita asked him with surprise.
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