Читать книгу The Swan Song онлайн

Four Celestial Lords sent their message.

Lord Indra and the Keepers of Life, Wind and Fire

They have surrendered themselves to your choice.

They will be in competition among the others

You are all they desire to possess.

You are free to judge them as you please.

No mortal could match their feats"

Nal, in his words displayed every element of an honest soul. Although his eyes could barely hold back his tears. He stood there motionless, solemnly staring at the feet of the only woman he had ever wanted to possess. Damayanti listened patiently to each word. Her longing for love was about to end. She had her lover, her only King, standing in front of her. Like a steady river determined to flow, she gathered her thoughts and searched for a way out. She looked at the frowning face of the defeated prince and, with the kindness of a lover, spoke in her soft, gentle voice.

"The swan rekindled my soul.

It ignited the ever-burning love

With the same melody that the Swan’s sang.

Now, I see you in your flesh and bones, just as described.

We are two halves of a perfect soul.

I see a way of refuge with no blame.

When the ceremony begins,

I will walk up to you in the presence of the kings and the divines,

With the universe and its keepers as alibi

I will pledge myself only to you as my Champion, my King"

Damayanti had made up her mind. She decided to put her true love to the test before the desires of every King and Lords that awaited the trial. Nal stepped back and bowed in respect before hurriedly returning to the crossroads to relay the message to the Divine Four. Damyanti retired to her sleepless slumber. Filled with hope, joy and faith in her heart, she dreamt one last time of the life she would soon begin to live.

The moon remained in the sky even as the sun rushed to dawn on a day of good omen. The celebrations began early, and the music added to the air of excitement as the bugles sounded the summons. Kings and lords from the corners of the world assembled in the royal coliseum, each seated on his throne like a lion on the mountain. The coliseum looked filled with glory and power, resembling a cauldron of might and light.