Flashback: Two Days Before Royal Court
Location: Queen Asandhimitra's Chamber
The Chief Queen sat in front of her mirror, brushing her long hair as her maids surrounded her. The scent of sandalwood filled the room.
Suddenly, a servant arrived.
Servant (bowing):"Maharani ki Jai ho. A merchant is outside, insisting he has something of great value for you. We tried sending him away, but he won't leave until he meets you."
Maharani (after a pause):"Hmm... Fine. Let him in."
A while later, Skand stood before the queen.
Maharani (coldly):"Show me what you've brought. But know this—if it's worthless, you may not walk out freely."
Skand (smiling confidently):"Fear not, Maharani. I assure you—you'll be pleased."
He opened his satchel, pulling out a small crystal bottle.
Skand (offering it):"This is not just any perfume. Its fragrance is deeply alluring. Anyone who wears it becomes... impossible to ignore. You'll feel more radiant, more powerful."
Maharani (raising an eyebrow):"All this... for a mere scent? You wasted my time for this?"
Skand (pulling out another item):"Not quite, Your Majesty. One more thing…"
He handed her a makeup kit—beautifully crafted, neatly arranged, with a scroll inside.
Skand (explaining):"This is a unique cosmetic set. The scroll describes exactly how to use it.I promise—if you try these, even Emperor Ashoka will find it hard to stay away from you."
Maharani (furious):"How dare you comment on my relationship with the Emperor!"
Skand (nervously bowing):"Forgive me, Maharani. I meant no disrespect. I speak only out of concern—for your well-being."
Maharani (confused):"My well-being? How?"
Skand:"If your bond with the Emperor strengthens, then your son's chances of succession rise. You will gain more authority—for yourself and for your lineage."
Maharani (testing):"And why should I believe a low merchant like you?"
Skand:"You don't have to—just try the products. If they work as promised... then I ask one small favor."
Maharani:"What favor?"
Skand:"In two days, there will be a hearing in the Royal Court.All I ask is that you stand with me there. If you do, not only will merchants honor you—but they will see you as a protector, as a symbol of justice.Your respect and power will grow tenfold."
Maharani (thinking, intrigued):"...We'll see."
End of Flashback
Back in the present...
Skand (to Draupadi):"And that's how the Queen agreed to support me."
Draupadi (thinking, impressed):"Incredible... my future husband is not just brave, but brilliant too. I accept him from my heart."
She gave a soft, shy smile.
Draupadi (playfully):"I'm now very curious to see those magical products that the Queen herself couldn't resist! You will show them to me, won't you?"
Skand (laughing):"Of course, I will."
Draupadi:"By the way... what kind of woman do you prefer?One who stays home? Or someone who works outside?"
Skand (pausing to think):"I admire women who understand business.Someone who can manage work, handle challenges, and grow beside me.I believe women deserve equal opportunity and freedom."
Draupadi (thinking):"Arya[husband]... You've passed all my silent tests. I've observed you all day—and you truly are worthy to be my life partner."
Later, near sunset...
Skand (looking into her eyes):"There's something I want to ask...Would you stay with me at my home for a few days?So you can observe me—my work, my world, my reality.Then we can both make our decision with clarity."
Draupadi (shocked, stunned):"What...?"
Her heart skipped a beat. She wasn't expecting this. Not from him. Not now.
To Be Continued...