They praised the flavors; afterward they rinsed, and the companions fed them betel. Dressed again in fine garments, the princes sat with their companions, anointed with many fragrances.
Dohā: The royal princes sat in complete ease, sovereigns among princes; beholding their laughter and play, hundreds of thousands of Kamas were ashamed.
At that time news reached the wife of Lakshminidhi, who came with her companions. Her name was Siddhi, famed and radiant in virtue, beauty, and character.
Filled with fortune and wedded blessing, she was exceedingly beautiful, intoxicated with fresh youth. Skilled in the ways of rasikas and accomplished in love, she put Rati to shame.
Rich in every virtue, a treasury of beauty, graceful and wise in every way, she was Lakshminidhi’s beloved life and the great queen of Nimi’s line.
Raghubara’s singular sister-in-law was deeply affectionate and adorned by love. She knew how to sustain devotion to her beloved and was captivated by Rama’s form.
Her restless eyes searched in every direction, eager to behold him. Filled with delight, she came at once to Rama with her companions.
Her face was a moon, and she carried a lotus in her hand; smiling gently, she illumined the palace. Taking Rama’s hand, the darling glanced sideways and said,
“O heart-stealing young prince, what a great thief you are, beloved! You stole away my awareness, dark one, and then went straight to your mother-in-law.”
“Do not speak so perversely, dear one, hiding your own fault,” Rama replied. “You yourself remained concealed, fair lady, even after hearing that I had come.
“I entered your palace, but you did not make yourself known. Fine indeed is your house, dear one, where everyone can disappear without a trace!”