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96
JAIN RAMAYAN
that day he had planned to display his militaric prowess and as if he was taking part in a militaric contest.
Within a short time, the Rakshasa armies felt confounded. The soldiers of Indrajit and Meghavahan began to take to their heels. Ravan was greatly distressed to see this sight; and at once came to the battle-front in his chariot. Nobody could stop Ravan's advance as he kept raining arrows against the enemies continuously. Shri Ram's soldiers stood stupefied and dazed. Their agitation increased moment by moment. But when Shri Ram saw Ravan fighting ferociously. he sat in his chariot and got ready to rush towards Ravan; but just then Vibhishan stopped him; and said;
"Kindly wait a little, my lord. Please allow me to fight against Dashmukh.”
Having said this, Vibhishan drove his chariot towards Rayan and stood facing him. Then, pulling the string of his bow made a loud noise which seemed to break the ear-drums of Ravan. Seeing Vibhishan coming up thus unexpectedly, Ravan said in a contemptuous manner.
"Vibhishan! Whose refuge have you found ? Have you sought the refuge of Ram who is courting death at my hands? Pooh! Pooh! Ram has sent a lamb to face a lion! He is trying to save himself by sending you thus to face me. This easily reveals the extent of his heroism.” Ravan spoke tenderly to Vibhishan.
"Dear child! You are my brother. You are my younger brother. Even now my heart overflows with affection for you. Do not behave madly and do not try to impede me thus. To-day, I will surely send Ram, Lakshman and the Vanara armies to the abode of Death. You fool! When that is so, why do you interfere in this matter and increase the number? Dear Vibhishan ! Come back to me. I welcome you back to our city. Your position in the court is always reserved for you. Even now, I am ready to give you protection and refuge. Won't you listen to me ?”
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