5. King Suddhodana and Kondanna
KING SUDDHODANA
You poisoned my son against me! You deserve to die!
Vappa pulls back, but Kondanna stays, fearless.
KONDANNA
How can we as mere mortals argue with Siddhattha's destiny proclaimed by the gods?
KING SUDDHODANA
How can you, as a mere mortal, know what the gods proclaim!
KONDANNA
So why did you seek the Sage's predictions if you believe it is not possible?
Anger drains from the King's face.
KONDANNA
All of us see the signs that sparked Siddhatta's flight. How many of us can respond as he did? Could you?
A rare humbleness appears in the King's face.
KONDANNA
Siddhatta has his destiny. I am linked to his, as is Vappa.
KING SUDDHODANA
How long, Kondanna?
KONDANNA
I don't know. It will not be easy.
