The Value of Conquest

King Kirtiverma decided to embark on a conquest of various lands. Eager to secure his success, he confided his plans to his minister.

“My lord, it would be wise to consult a sage I know. The conquest would be easier with his guidance,” advised the minister.

The king met with the sage and inquired about achieving quick and easy victories in the proposed wars.

“Dear boy, go and conquer your anger. Once you’ve accomplished that, the other conquests will be quite simple,” replied the sage.

After a month, the king returned to the sage and proclaimed, “I have conquered my anger. Now, tell me how to achieve a smooth conquest of the lands.”

“Boy, what do I know of wars and conquests? How can I possibly advise you?” the sage responded with a smile.

“Were you mocking me?” the king exclaimed, brandishing his sword in frustration.

“So this is how you have conquered your anger!” the sage remarked, observing the king’s reaction.

The king’s face paled as he grasped the sage’s point.

“My boy, if you have failed to conquer even one of your own passions, what is the true value of conquering the lands of others?” the sage asked, imparting a powerful lesson.