Kunwar Indrajit Singh still remained in that enchanting place. No matter how restless his heart might be, he was compelled to spend his days with the helpless Madhavi. Well, whatever is to happen will happen, but at this moment, though there was still half the day left, Kunwar Indrajit Singh was resting inside his room on a cot with golden legs, while a maidservant gently fanned him. We cannot say for certain whether sleep held him captive, or whether he lay there deliberately, pondering ways to unravel the web of his ill fortune. Well, let him remain thus for now; let us instead visit Tilottama's chamber and see what conversation she is having with Madhavi. Madhavi's smiling face showed clearly that she was happier today than on other days, but no trace of happiness could be seen on Tilottama's face.

Madhavi took Tilottama's hand and said, "Friend, today I do not find you as happy as I am myself."

Tilottama: Your happiness is quite justified.

Madhavi: So, are you not happy that Kishori has fallen into my trap and is now locked up here in the cellar like a prisoner?

Tilottama: I am happy about that, too.

Madhavi: Then what are you upset about? Ah, I understand—you must be troubled because Lalita has not yet returned.

Tilottama: That's right. I am thinking a lot about Lalita. I am convinced now that Kamla has captured her.

Madhavi: Then we should think about rescuing her.

Tilottama: I don't have the time to go and rescue her, for my hands and feet are tied up with troubles of a different kind—troubles you know nothing about. If you did, you would be as downcast as I am today.

Tilottama's words startled Madhavi, and she looked at Tilottama in alarm.

Tilottama: Why do you stare at me? I am not lying. You are so lost in your own pleasures and comforts that you have no idea of the world's affairs. You don't even know what disaster is about to befall you in just a few days. Do you really believe Kishori will remain your prisoner? Are you at all aware of what's happening outside? Are you ruling the kingdom of Gaya just to earn a bad name? I have told you dozens of times to mend your ways, but you never listened. Helpless, I left you to your own will. And out of love, I have always obeyed your commands, but now I can no longer manage it!

Madhavi: Tilottama, what has happened to you today that you are so agitated? What calamity has struck to make you so distraught? Don't you know how well Diwan Sahib is managing the affairs of this kingdom, and how clever the Senapati and Kotwal are in their duties? Can anyone cause trouble in our kingdom while they are here?

Tilottama: It is certainly true that as long as those three are here, no one can disturb this kingdom. But you don't even know what's become of those three!