A Prophecy Comes True
The Arrival of the Prophet
In the land of Nanja, a renowned prophet arrived, drawing the attention of many. Hearing of his extraordinary abilities, the king’s General invited him to his home and requested a prophecy regarding his son’s future. The prophet gazed at the young boy and declared, “He will be a king one day and live in great luxury.” While the General was pleased with this prediction, the king, alerted by his spies, felt threatened and expressed his displeasure to his commander-in-chief.
The Father’s Warning
Realizing that his son’s life was in peril due to the king’s jealousy, the General summoned his son, Virasena. “Son,” he said, “the king is furious about the prophecy concerning your future. I fear for your safety. You must leave this land immediately. If fate has decreed your kingship, no one can change that. But for now, caution is essential.”
The Exile
In obedience to his father’s wishes, Virasena secretly departed from the land. Later, the General approached the king, stating, “Sire, I am your loyal servant. I have no desire for anyone outside the royal family to ascend the throne. Therefore, I have banished my son from this land and ordered my soldiers to execute him should he ever return.”
The king was pleased with the General’s loyalty and praised him for it.
A New Life
Meanwhile, Virasena became a wandering minstrel, travelling the world. One day, exhausted and weak from hunger, he collapsed near the edge of a dark forest. Nearby, an old woman and her daughter spotted him and carried him to their cottage. After some time, Virasena regained consciousness and was surprised to find himself in unfamiliar surroundings. The old woman inquired about his identity and occupation, to which Virasena replied simply that he was a wandering minstrel.
The maiden, who had rescued him, said, “I am an orphan, and this old dame is my only support. You can stay here for as long as you wish, and when you tire of us, you are free to leave.”
A Bond Forged
Virasena responded, “How could I not like you after what you have done for me?” The maiden, disheartened, replied, “No one likes me because I am so ugly.” Touched by her words, Virasena sang a song in praise of her kindness, bringing tears to the maiden’s eyes.
Virasena continued, “Young lady, your goodness is unparalleled. I would like to marry you, but I am an orphan. What does your mother think of this proposal?” The old woman replied, “Young man, you are welcome in my home.”
The Unexpected Reunion
Thus, the next day, wedding preparations began. On the day of the marriage, the king appeared to give away the bride. In truth, the maiden was his daughter. Despite being a princess, no prince desired to marry her due to her looks. The king proclaimed that he would grant half of his kingdom to anyone who married her. However, the princess declared, “Father, I will marry the man who loves me for my inner qualities. To avoid recognition, I will live in the forest with my nurse.”
Virasena married her and eventually became king after his father-in-law’s passing, fulfilling the prophecy that had once placed his life in jeopardy.