Satyawati -12

12. Devabrata Father was furious Questioned my values How could I even think Of snatching the crown Which rightfully belonged To Prince Devabrata I had no right to stake claim For a son yet unborn. I swore that I had no desire For the kingdom; my words Were to dissuade the king From coming back to me. Afternoon. In the forest I sat lost in meditation. I was startled by loud calls Of my neighbour's daughter. Father'd sent her to fetch me For we had a guest, the prince Crown Prince Devabrata All alone, without his retinue. He had noticed his father Gloomy, lost in thought. Santanu did not answer His many questions. From the minister who had Accompanied the king On his hunting expedition He learned of the king's new passion. And how he was downcast On his return from our home. Now, on hearing of my "demand" From father, asked to meet me. A handsome young man Devabrata was my son's age. "Mother", he said, "I agree To all your desires; no regrets. "Please agree to be my mother And save my father from his Present predicament; The kingdom is yours from now." I answered spontaneously, "No son, the kingdom is yours. I do not want to be the queen Let alone, the kingdom for my son." I remember how he, at first, Was astonished to hear me; Which was replaced by reverence: "Oh! My mother! " he sobbed.