The next evening, King Virendra Singh sat in his tent, discussing matters concerning Rohtasgarh. Pandit Badrinath, Bhairon Singh, Tara Singh, Jyotishiji, Kunwar...

Anandsingh and Tejsingh were seated nearby. Each, in their own manner, recounted the events of the underground chamber of Rohtasgarh, and at last, the conversation turned to Virendra Singh.

Virendra Singh: What should we do now regarding Rohtasgarh?

Tejsingh: There is no doubt that you have now become the master of Rohtasgarh! When both the king and the minister are in your custody, what else remains to be done? Yes, now we must consider what treatment should be given to King Digvijay Singh.

Virendra Singh: And what arrangements should be made for Kishori?

Tejsingh: Yes, these are the two matters at hand. As for Kishori, I cannot say anything just yet, but regarding King Digvijay Singh, I would first like to hear your opinion.

Virendra Singh: My opinion is that if he sincerely accepts subordination, then we should impose tribute (revenue) on Rohtasgarh and let him go.

Tejsingh: That is my opinion as well.

Bhaironsingh: But what if, after accepting now, he later resorts to treachery?

Tejsingh: I do not expect that to happen. From all I have heard, he is known to be honest, sincere, and brave. God forbid, even if his intentions change after some time, we need not concern ourselves with it.

Virendra Singh: How far can one consider such possibilities! (Looking towards Tarasingh) Go, bring Digvijay Singh here, but do not bring him before me in shackles or chains.

"At your command," said Tarasingh, and went to bring Digvijay Singh. In a short while, he returned, bringing him along. Meanwhile, they had been conversing about other matters.

Digvijay Singh respectfully saluted King Virendra Singh and stood before him with folded hands.

Virendra Singh: Tell me, what are your intentions now?

Digvijay Singh: My intention is to remain with you all my life and serve you faithfully.

Virendra Singh: There is no change in your intentions, is there?

Digvijay Singh: Only a complete fool would harbor ill will against such a mighty king as yourself. Only a true idiot would hope to defeat you in any way. There is no doubt that each of your ayyars has the power to destroy ten kingdoms. I had great faith in the strength of this Rohtasgarh fort, but now I am convinced that it was my mistake. You could conquer any kingdom you wish without a fight. My mind cannot comprehend what has happened, nor can I understand what...

What a spectacle the ayyars have created! For hundreds of years, the secret of that underground chamber had been kept hidden, and in truth, even I did not know its exact nature until now. Yet, in the blink of an eye, your ayyars have taken possession of that very chamber—if this is not a miracle, then what is! Surely, the grace of God is upon you, and all this is the result of your sincere devotion. To bear enmity