Author's Note: Please refer to the glossary at the end of each episode to understand the non-English words used in this episode. This was originally meant to be a published novel, but due to time and resource constraints, I'm publishing it here first. I hope you enjoy the sprinkle of culture throughout the Episodes! 

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Princess Suriratna graced the realm of Ayodhya with her serene presence. Despite being the little bundle she was, she possessed an exceptional tranquility that set her apart from most newborns, captivating all who beheld her. In times that was awake from her calm slumber, she held everyone within eyes like tranquil pools of wisdom. Her delicate features, that would bloom with the occasional unintended toothless smile and giggles, were reminiscent of dawn's warm rays. The little princess seemed to embody the very essence of warm serenity, and everyone around her was enchanted. As the days passed, her placid nature continued to captivate the hearts of the kingdom. The palace residents marveled at her peaceful aura, finding solace in her presence. It was as if she carried a divine radiance within her, casting a gentle luminosity that touched the lives of those around her. 

Sitting in the palace gardens, Queen Indumati and Chanda were admiring the princess, under the shade of a blooming jasmine tree. The gentle breeze carried the fragrance of flowers, as if in harmony with the ease of the Princess's afternoon nap. 

Queen Indumati, a regal figure with a compassionate heart, cherished her daughter's tranquil spirit. Whenever she held baby Suri in her arms, a sense of peace enveloped her, as if the very essence of tranquility resided within the child. 

"Chanda," Queen Indumati whispered to her trusted maid one afternoon, her voice filled with wonder and tenderness. "Our princess is a true marvel. Her very existence brings solace to my heart."

Chanda, a devoted and nurturing soul, gazed at the princess with eyes shimmering with affection. "Indeed, Your Majesty."

"She reminds me of the beauty that can be found in stillness," the queen continued. 

"Yes, my queen. The Princess carries a sacred light within her, filling our lives with peace."

Queen Indumati, deeply moved by her daughter, found herself seeking such moments of stillness and reflection. 

Occasionally the Prince would find himself meandering into her palace as well, wanting share his love and affection as an older brother. She recognized that Suriratna's placid energy held a power that could transcend the challenges faced when ruling a kingdom. The Prince himself seemed to have calmed down, especially after his own light had dimmed with his accident. She looked up to the heavens in gratitude, thanking them for Suri who brought light back into Buddhisen's life. 

She observed that Prince Buddhisen adored his little sister with all his heart. With each passing day a deep bond of love and protection grew between them. When they spent time together, he would cradle her in his arms, his touch as delicate as a whisper, and would speak to her in hushed tones, as if sharing ancient secrets, and his words always overflowing with affection.

"Sweet Suri," he would murmur, his voice filled with tenderness. "You are a precious gift. I promise to always be with you, guide you and protect you, no matter what."

Princess Suri, with her eyes wide and filled with innocent curiosity, gazed at her brother with a sense of trust that surpassed her tender age. It was as if she sensed his gentle nature and understood the unconditional love that flowed between them.

An adorable giggle and smile escaped her, one that the Prince caught and reflect back to her. Together, under the supervision of the maids and their mother, they explored the gardens, their soft whispers mingling with the soft rustle of leaves, as each would discover what fascinated the other. 

The queen could see that their bond was slowly growing into a symbol of the profound love that can exist between siblings—a love that nurtures, empowers, and fills the heart with an enduring sense of belonging.

And both her children were at peace. What more could a mother wish for?

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