“Bitterness is like swallowing poison and waiting for the other person to die.”  Having fled for refuge to Brahmadatta’s hometown Dighiti and his wife now make a difficult decision.

One afternoon, as Dighiti watched his son playing happily in the street, anxiety overwhelmed him. He explained his apprehension to his wife. “People can forgive those who hurt them but they often harbor resentment toward those they hurt. King Brahmaddata has done us great harm and he fears our revenge. I worry about Dighavu’s safety. If Brahmadatta discovers us, he will kill us–all three of us.

The queen pondered the matter for some time before she answered her husband. “I understand your concern. Let us send Dighavu to my relatives in the countryside. They will care for him and bring him up as a prince.”

With deep sorrow that pierced their hearts, Dighiti and the queen sent Dighavu away to live with his mother’s family, where he developed all the skills necessary to become a king.

What will happen to the prince in exile?

Next time: “Betrayed”