Somada smiled softly as the young man ran into the palace corridor. She quickly checked her reflection on the mirror before rushing to open the door.

"Princess!" He said so tenderly as she opened the door and before he could say anything more she pulled him in.

"Did you get my gift?" He asks as Somada locks the door and turns to him.

"I love it!" She smiled holding the lotus against her cheek. She handed it over to him. "I want you to clip this to my hair."

He nods and she sits on the stool in front of her dressing table. She takes off the veil and kept it on her lap. "Over here, just tuck it gently under my hair bun."

Devansh bent gently and tucked the water lily into her hair bun. Somada smiles and turns crimson as she notices Devansh smile at how the flower accentuated her beauty.

"I think the jasmines need to be taken off!" Somada said and Devansh nods. "Please remove the jasmines, Devansh."

"I would prefer if you had made me a crown made of these water lilies!" Somada said. "And they look so exquisite and exotic! Where did you get them? I have never seen such water lilies!"

"I got them when I visited Lanka. To meet King Vibhishana." Devansh said. "It was in the Ashoka Vatika. The king let me pluck a few so I can grow them in my garden."

"Does that mean you have more like this?" Somada asks jumping in her seat, highly excited.

"Yes, my princess!" He smiles as he patiently unties the last string of jasmines wound around her hair. "I am growing them in the pond at my father's quarters!"

"I want to see it! Will you take me there?" She asks.

"A princess in a commoner's quarters?" Devansh asks laughing. "Do you want to bring a scandal upon yourself?"

"I can come in disguise." Somada retorts. "I'm not asking you to take me, I'm ordering you!"

Devansh laughs. "Yes, my princess. I'll be sure to take you to my quarters, provided that you properly disguise yourself."

Somada smiles.

"Give me that veil!" He asks and she passes it to him. Somada looks in the reflection as he delicately pins the veil on to her head. "Beautiful!"

Somada smiles as she looks at his reflection.

"No bangles?" He asks as he looks at Somada's bare wrists.

"I don't-" She protested and stopped midway as he took the big platter of gold bangles. He whisks through them for a few seconds and pulls out two dainty gold bangles which had engravings of a does and the sun.

"This is a unique design!" He says.

"It's my aunt Sita's. She got this made as soon as she and my uncle came from exile. She loved these so much."

"You should wear it." Devansh declares. He scoops a few more simple gold bangles and arranges it all neatly in a nice pattern. He holds Somada's wrists and gently pushes them down her wrist.

"And now, our princess of Ayodya is ready!" He declares happily.

"Your princess wants a delicious meal and a foot massage!" Somada adds rolling her eyes.

"You will get a delicious meal and a foot massage if you could just tolerate everything for a few hours!" Devansh says holding her shoulders.

"Lets go to the grand hall!" He says.

* * * * *

Lakshman stood at the entrance of the grand hall, his eyes fixed on his daughter, Princess Somada. The hall was adorned with vibrant tapestries and shimmering chandeliers, but his gaze remained solely on her. She is a vision of grace and beauty, surrounded by well-wishers and esteemed guests.

As the flickering candlelight cast a soft glow upon Somada's face. Her eyes, a reflection of his own, sparkled with a mixture of youthful enthusiasm and wisdom beyond her years.

Somada's regal posture spoke volumes about the strength and poise she had inherited from her noble lineage. She carried herself with an air of confidence, every movement exuding grace and elegance. Lakshman observed the way she interacted with the guests, her warmth and genuine interest lighting up the room.

As he continued to watch her, memories of their shared moments flooded his mind. He recalled the nights he had spent teaching her the art of swordplay, the clashing of steel against steel echoing in his memory. Somada's determination had been unwavering, her spirit matched only by her insatiable thirst for knowledge.

Her voice, like a sweet melody, resonated through the hall as she engaged in conversations with diplomats and dignitaries. She spoke with eloquence and wisdom, effortlessly navigating the complexities of diplomacy.

Lakshman remembered the countless times she had accompanied him on charitable visits, her gentle touch and soothing words offering solace to the less fortunate. She had inherited her Aunt Sita's empathetic spirit, channeling it into acts of selflessness and generosity.

Lakshman's heart swelled with pride as he witnessed the profound impact Somada had on those around her. She had become a beacon of hope, inspiring others with her strength, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of their kingdom. His daughter had blossomed into a queen in her own right.

The room seemed to fade into the background as Lakshman's focus remained solely on Somada. He could not help but marvel at the remarkable woman she had become—his daughter, his pride, and his greatest joy. She embodied the essence of their family's legacy, carrying it forward with grace and dignity.

With a mixture of joy and a touch of melancholy, Lakshman realized that his little girl had grown up.

As Somada turned and caught his eye, a radiant smile graced her lips, mirroring the love and adoration that filled Lakshman's heart.

Lakshman's gaze lingered a little longer, etching every detail of Somada's presence into his memory. With a grateful heart, he stepped forward, ready to join the festivities and celebrate not just the war victory, but also the remarkable woman she had become—a testament to the love and guidance he had bestowed upon her.

As the grand celebration continued, Ram, accompanied by a distinguished guest, approached Lakshman and Somada. Ram's warm smile greeted his beloved brother and daughter, but a flicker of concern danced in his eyes as he introduced the guest.

"Brother, Princess Somada, allow me to present King Dharmendra, the ruler of the Magada kingdom!" Ram said.

King Dharmendra, a young and charismatic man, stepped forward, his eyes fixed on Somada. His confident demeanor exuded a sense of power and authority, but Somada's intuition sensed a darkness lurking beneath his charming facade.

Somada greeted King Dharmendra with a polite nod, her eyes guarded and discerning. There was something about his presence that unsettled her, a subtle aura of deceit that sent a chill down her spine. Instinctively, she felt that his intentions were far from noble.

King Dharmendra, undeterred by Somada's apparent disinterest, approached her with a magnetic charm. "Princess Somada, it is an honor to finally meet you. I have heard tales of your beauty and grace, and I find myself drawn to your captivating spirit. I believe our union would be a match made in heaven, bringing prosperity and strength to both our kingdoms."

Somada maintained her composure, her instincts guiding her with caution. She responded with a measured tone, "King Dharmendra, I appreciate your kind words and the potential benefits of an alliance. However, I am not yet ready to consider marriage, and I believe it is important to explore all avenues of partnership for the greater good of our kingdoms."

King Dharmendra's smile faltered for a moment, revealing a glint of frustration and impatience. He leaned closer, his voice taking on a persuasive tone. "Princess, I assure you that our union would be one of power and influence. Together, we could create an empire unrivaled by any other. Think of the possibilities, the legacy we could leave behind."

Somada's intuition intensified, warning her of the hidden dangers that lay beneath his honeyed words. She recognized the signs of manipulation and a hunger for power that did not align with her values. Firmly, she stood her ground, determined to protect herself and her kingdom.

Lakshman, ever vigilant and protective, observed the exchange. His gaze met Ram's, conveying their shared concern for Somada's well-being. They knew they had to ensure her safety, even if it meant opposing a powerful adversary.

With a resolute voice, Lakshman interjected, "King Dharmendra, while we appreciate your proposal, the happiness and welfare of our princess are of utmost importance to us. We shall consider your offer, but it is imperative that Somada's desires and best interests guide our decision."

King Dharmendra's charming facade wavered, revealing a glimpse of his true nature—a man driven by personal ambition, regardless of the consequences. He masked his disappointment with a diplomatic smile, bidding his farewell for the time being, but leaving behind an unsettling presence.

Somada released a breath she didn't realize she had been holding, grateful for her father's support and wisdom. She turned to Lakshman, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Father, I trust your judgment and guidance."

Lakshman enveloped Somada in a protective embrace.

* * * * *

Somada slowly detached herself from the celebrations and retreated into her safe place - the royal garden.

The moon cast a soft, ethereal glow over the garden, illuminating the path as Somada strolled amidst the fragrant blossoms. Unbeknownst to her, Dharmendra had stealthily followed, his footsteps muffled by the rustling leaves.

Somada found herself drawn to a secluded spot, a small gazebo nestled in the heart of the garden. She paused, inhaling the intoxicating scent of jasmine that filled the air. It was then that Dharmendra emerged from the shadows, his presence casting an ominous shadow over the serenity of the night.

Somada's eyes met Dharmendra's, and a shiver coursed through her. The air grew heavy with tension, a palpable unease settling between them. She tried to maintain her composure, her eyes reflecting a mix of wariness and defiance.

Dharmendra, with a deceptively charming smile, approached Somada, his voice laced with a hint of malicious intent. "Princess Somada, how enchanting you look in the moonlight. Your beauty rivals that of the celestial beings themselves."

Somada could feel Dharmendra's eyes lingering on her, his gaze filled with an unsettling intensity. She maintained her composure, her regal poise.

Dharmendra spoke again - his voice dripping with arrogance. "Princess Somada, I must confess, your beauty is truly captivating. Such elegance and grace befitting a woman of your stature. Only a noble royalty such as myself should be worthy of possessing a woman this beautiful!"

Somada's face remained impassive, her eyes narrowing with disdain. She could sense the underlying currents of his words, the derogatory implications that lay hidden beneath his flattery. With a calm yet firm tone, she responded, "King Dharmendra, I would advise you to choose your words more carefully. It seems your perception of beauty is clouded by a distorted lens."

A sly smile crept upon Dharmendra's lips, his intentions laid bare. "Ah, my dear princess, you misunderstand me. I merely appreciate the allure of a woman, the power she holds over men. We are but mere mortals, drawn to her charm, her ability to captivate our hearts and bodies."

Somada's eyes blazed with a mix of anger and disgust. She refused to let his objectifying words go unchallenged. Each step she took, her voice grew stronger, resonating with an unwavering determination. "King Dharmendra, your beliefs about women are nothing short of repugnant. We are not objects for your amusement or vessels for your desires. We possess our own strength, our own dreams, and we will not be reduced to your distorted fantasies."

Dharmendra's smirk faltered, his false charm crumbling in the face of Somada's resolute stance. He attempted to regain control, his voice tinged with irritation. "You speak of strength, yet you fail to recognize the natural order of things. Women are meant to be subservient, to cater to the whims of men. You will come to understand your place in due time."

Somada's eyes flashed with defiance, her voice firm and unwavering. "The only thing I understand is that your archaic beliefs have no place in the world we strive to create. I stand for equality, respect, and the empowerment of women. I will not succumb to your misguided notions."

With every word she spoke, Somada distanced herself from Dharmendra, a physical and metaphorical separation from the darkness he represented.

Dharmendra was seething with anger

Somada's voice carried across the garden, her words a declaration of defiance. "You will never possess me, Dharmendra, nor will you tarnish the ideals I hold dear. Your dirty thoughts and distorted views will find no welcome in my world."

As she turned her back on Dharmendra, leaving him seething in the moonlit garden, Somada walked away, her steps guided by an unwavering spirit.

* * * * *

The next morning, Somada couldn't contain the turmoil that swirled within her. She sought solace and support from her father Lakshman, her uncle Ram, and Urmila. Gathering them together, she recounted the disturbing encounter with Dharmendra in the garden, exposing his derogatory beliefs and his unsettling advances.

Lakshman's face hardened with fury as he clenched his fists. "How dare he? To speak of women in such a demeaning manner! He will not get away with this!"

Ram's eyes blazed with a fierce determination. "Somada, you have done the right thing by speaking up. We will not allow such darkness to taint our family or our kingdom. I will personally address this matter."

Urmila's voice trembled with a mix of concern and anger. "My brave daughter, you have shown immense courage in standing up against this man. We are with you, and we will protect you."

Lakshman's voice, though filled with controlled fury, carried a comforting tone. "Somada, my dear daughter, you must understand that we will not let anything harm you. We will fight for your happiness and your dignity. No one can force you into a union that goes against your will."

Somada's eyes filled with tears, a mixture of relief and gratitude.

Ram stood up, his voice resolute. "I will write a letter to Dharmendra, making it clear that the alliance and the wedding are off."

Lakshman nodded, his voice steady.

Ram continued to speak. "And I will ensure that the message reaches him swiftly."

As the ink dried on the paper, they sealed the letter with resolve. It carried a powerful message—a declaration that Somada's worth, autonomy, and happiness would not be compromised. The palace walls echoed with their shared determination to safeguard their principles and stand against any form of degradation and injustice.

TO BE CONTINUED

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