The grand halls of Suvana's estate were lit with gold and filled with joy. Both Suvana and Utkarsh were personally welcoming the guests. Today was no ordinary day—it was the wedding of Skand and Draupadi.
Dignitaries, nobles, and merchants from across Pataliputra had gathered. But suddenly, murmurs spread across the hall as someone unexpected arrived.
It was Prince Mahendra, son of Emperor Ashoka himself—heir to the Maurya Empire.
Utkarsh & Suvana (bowing deeply):"It is an honour to have Prince Mahendra among us. Your presence has made this celebration truly unforgettable."
Mahendra (thinking silently):I still don't understand what Father sees in these people... What made him insist that I attend this wedding?
Soon, the guests gathered in the main hall, awaiting the arrival of the bride and groom.
A loud announcement echoed through the chamber:"The groom has arrived."
Skand entered, dressed in a stunning royal orange ensemble, adorned with gold embroidery and an air of quiet power. Heads turned and conversations paused.
Guests (whispering):"How handsome he looks...""He's so wealthy...""I wish my daughter could have married a man like him..."
Skand made his way to the mandap and took his place.
Then came the bride.
Draupadi entered wearing a rich crimson saree, her long black hair cascading over her shoulders. Her makeup was radiant, almost divine—like an apsara descended from the heavens.
She walked gracefully to the mandap and sat beside Skand.
Skand (playfully):"I'm afraid I might faint today—from being overwhelmed by your beauty."
Draupadi chuckled, unable to hide her blush.
The wedding rituals began, and the priest started chanting sacred mantras.
Priest:"Now the bride and groom will make vows to each other."
Skand:"I promise to keep Draupadi happy for the rest of my life. I will never leave her side."
Draupadi:"I promise to stand by Skand in his darkest times. I will keep his family united, and always be his strength."
After exchanging their vows, the couple took the seven sacred rounds around the fire, sealing their union.
They received blessings from all the elders and well-wishers present.
Later, the celebration shifted to the reception. Both Suvana and Skand were quite drunk by now, smiling and laughing.
Suvana (announcing):"From this day, two of Pataliputra's biggest business families are united.As a gift to my son-in-law, I present a luxurious haveli, executive authority in my business, and 3,000 silver coins."
The hall erupted in murmurs—this was no ordinary gift.
Then Utkarsh stood up.
Utkarsh:"I would like to make an announcement as well. From this day forward, my makeup and textile businesses will be registered in the name of my daughter-in-law, Draupadi. She will oversee them as their official head.Moreover, Suvana's family and mine will operate our stores in partnership."
Guests (amazed):"First Suvana, now Utkarsh... What a fortunate family.""Draupadi is incredibly lucky. Utkarsh's industries generate massive revenue every month."
Prince Mahendra (thinking silently):Now I understand why Father sent me here. These people aren't just merchants—they're among the most powerful economic forces in the kingdom. Strong ties with them could greatly strengthen the empire's economy.
And so, the evening passed in joy, laughter, and conversation. Skand and Utkarsh personally bid farewell to each guest with gratitude.
That Night
Skand entered his room, a little nervous. What he saw made his heart race.
Skand (blushing, thinking):Wow... Draupadi looks breathtaking sitting on the bed...
Draupadi saw him and blushed too. She got up and brought a glass of milk from the side table.
Draupadi (softly):"This is a tradition, Skand. On the wedding night, the bride offers her husband a glass of milk."
Skand drank it with a smile, and they both sat together on the bed.
A slightly awkward silence settled in.
Skand (gently breaking the silence):"I know this feels a little strange… figuring out where to start, what to say.But there's something I want to tell you—directly and honestly."
Skand:"In a marriage, understanding takes time. Some couples aren't ready for everything on the first night.If you're not ready yet—physically or emotionally—we can take things slowly. There's no rush. I want you to feel safe and respected."
Draupadi (thinking):How rare it is to find a man who truly understands like this… I am so lucky to have him as my husband.
Draupadi (smiling):"Honestly, you seem more nervous than I am, Skand."
Then, without warning, she leaned in and kissed him.
Skand blushed deeply, caught between surprise and delight.
As the moment lingered, the candle in the room flickered out, and the room was enveloped in gentle darkness.
To be continued…