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They
accused him: "Vitasoka abused royal privileges. He insulted the
king and assumed the sovereign powers for the furtherance of the
cause of his own sect. He was growing presumptuous -- he was guilty
on many counts - he was beyond redemption". Asoka listened to
the last. He feigned great anger and pronounced instant death on
Vitasoka on the spot itself. In accordance with the plan, the
accusers pleaded for mercy and remission of the punishment. Asoka
relented. He granted seven das respite to the accused and permitted
him to exercise sovereign power - rule the country during that
period, when he would be out of the capital. How strange? As strange
as the accusation!
Vitasoka
felt relieved. As ordered, he took the reins of administration into
his hands. He was absolutely unfit for that august office thrust
upon him. And unequal to it in every respect. Uneasiness was
mounting high second by second.
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