________________
The Royal Court of Lanka
119
studded with gems were giving out dim light. All the ministers had arrived and all were looking at Ravan with impatience. A few minutes passed. There was perfect silence in the court. There was no noise anywhere. The atmosphere was filled with agitation, anxiety and fear. Just then they heard trumpets blown to announce the arrival of Ravan. The emperor of Lanka entered his court with all grandeur and pomp. The minister stood up and saluted him. Ravan slowly climbed the steps of his magnificent throne and sat on it. The throne far outshone the splendour of all the radiant things known to man. Ravan was silent for a while. He observed carefully the feelings expressed in the faces of his ministers and the ministers who possessed extraordinary intellectual brilliance and wisdom kept studying Rayan's face
Ravan displayed all his wealth and splendour. But he seemed to be diffident and depressed. His face was covered with the dark clouds of anxiety and agitation as if the whole range of Himalayas was pressing his head down. His face looked pale and sunken with anxiety as if he feared some disgrace or defeat at the hands of his enemies. He appeared to be helpless and seemed to have sensed the displeasure of his ministers. He seemed to have lost his self-confidence and trust in his own abilities and appeared to be desiring others' support and help;
yas making a pretence of being calm and undaunted. He seemed to be visualising the destruction that distortions could bring about. After being silent for a while he said aloud.
"Oh you devoted ministers of Lanka! Today I expect from you an intelligent and well-thought out counsel. I am confident that you will give me proper advice at this critical juncture !"
“Dear Lord! We are always at your service. We are prepared to render you devoted service. Our positions and possessions are but your benefactions."
The Chief minister said standing up and saluting him.
"I heartily compliment you for your wisdom and intelligence. Dear ministers! Our empire of Lanka owes all its prosperity and progress to your intelligence and wisdom. On
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
