Time had flown by since Vaidehi had returned to Dwarka, and Yudhishthir had resumed his duties in Hastinapur. Though miles apart, neither could stop thinking about the moments they had shared. Vaidehi often found herself reminiscing about Yudhishthir's steady gaze and calm words, while Yudhishthir thought of her graceful presence and soft laughter.

In Hastinapur, the Pandavas had recently triumphed in a fierce battle against King Drupad. As a gesture of respect and gratitude to their guru, they offered half of Drupad's kingdom to Ashwatthama as gurudakshina. With this victory, Yudhishthir was crowned the Yuvraj of Hastinapur. The palace buzzed with activity, celebrations, and newfound responsibilities for the eldest Pandava.

In the royal hall, a discussion was taking place between Kunti, Gandhari, King Dhritarashtra, Bhishma, and Vidur. The topic was Yudhishthir's future.

"Now that Yudhishthir is the Yuvraj, it is time he gets married," Dhritarashtra said firmly. "We must think about the continuation of our lineage."

"I agree," Gandhari added with a nod. "A wise and virtuous wife will be a source of strength for him in these trying times."

Bhishma, who had been listening silently, spoke up. "During Vaidehi's stay in Hastinapur, I noticed her grace, intelligence, and compassion. She would be an ideal match for Yudhishthir."

Kunti smiled at the suggestion. "Vaidehi is indeed a remarkable woman. I was impressed by her humility and the way she conducted herself. She would be a wonderful addition to our family."

Gandhari agreed, "She is a gem. Vasudev's daughter will bring great honor to Hastinapur."

With the women's support, the men nodded in agreement. Dhritarashtra turned to Kunti. "It is settled, then. Kunti, speak to Yudhishthir about this alliance before we send a letter to Dwarka."

Kunti bowed her head. "As you wish, Jyestha."

Later that day, Kunti called Yudhishthir to her chambers. Yudhishthir arrived, curious but composed. "You wished to see me, Mata?"

"Yes, putra. Please sit," Kunti said, gesturing to the seat beside her. She took a moment before speaking, her tone gentle. "Yudhishthir, now that you are the Yuvraj, it is important to think about the future of our family. The time has come for you to marry."

Yudhishthir lowered his gaze, a faint blush creeping up his cheeks. "I understand, Mata. Have you... have you thought of someone?"

Kunti smiled at his shyness. "Yes, I have. The elders and I believe that Vaidehi, Vasudev's daughter, would be a perfect match for you. She is kind, wise, and carries herself with grace."

At the mention of Vaidehi's name, Yudhishthir's heart skipped a beat. He couldn't deny the happiness the thought brought him, but he kept his tone measured. "If that is your wish, Mata, I have no objections."

Kunti chuckled softly. "Your face says more than your words, putr. I will inform the jyesth, and a proposal will be sent to Dwarka."

Meanwhile, in Dwarka, Vaidehi was unaware of the plans unfolding in Hastinapur. One morning, as the family gathered in the grand hall, a royal messenger arrived from Hastinapur with a letter addressed to Vasudev. After bowing respectfully, he handed over the scroll. Vasudev opened it and read it aloud for everyone to hear.

"King Dhritarashtra and Queen Kunti propose an alliance between Yuvraj Yudhishthir, and our daughter, Vaidehi."

The family exchanged surprised glances before turning to Vaidehi. Subhadra clapped her hands in excitement. "Yuvraj Yudhishthir! This is wonderful news!"

Vaidehi's cheeks flushed as all eyes turned to her. "I... I need some time to think about this," she said softly.

Vasudev nodded understandingly. "Take all the time you need, beta. This is an important decision."

That night, Vaidehi sat by her window, staring at the moonlit sky. Her thoughts were a whirlwind. The idea of marrying Yudhishthir filled her with both excitement and apprehension. She remembered his kind eyes, his reassuring words, and the quiet strength he carried. Could she truly be his partner?

As she pondered, a sudden flutter of wings caught her attention. An eagle landed gracefully on her windowsill, a small scroll tied to its leg. Vaidehi's heart raced as she untied the message, recognizing the royal seal of Hastinapur.

The letter was from Yudhishthir:

"Vaidehi,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. Writing to you feels both strange and comforting, as though I am speaking directly to the part of me that has been missing since you left Hastinapur.

I have heard much about your grace and wisdom from those in Dwarka, and though it brings me joy to know you are admired, it also reminds me of the days we spent together—moments I cherish deeply. I have heard of the proposal sent to your family. I write to you not as the yuvraj but as someone who holds you in high regard.

Vaidehi, it is with utmost sincerity that I confess something close to my heart. If you choose to accept this proposal, I vow to be not just your husband but also your partner in every sense. I wish to honor you as Lord Ram honored Devi Sita. Like him, I have chosen to follow the path of ekpatni dharma—to remain devoted to one wife for all my life. To marry you would not just be a union of two individuals but a promise I intend to keep forever.

Should you feel any doubt or hesitation, please know that you are free to refuse this alliance. I respect your will above all else. This marriage should not be a duty or a compromise but a choice you make with joy in your heart. If your answer is no, I promise I will not pursue this further, though the void in my life would remain.

I trust your wisdom and your heart, Vaidehi. Whatever decision you make, it will not change the respect I hold for you. Should you choose to honor me with your acceptance, I will strive every day to be a husband worthy of you—steadfast, respectful, and loving.

With utmost respect and heartfelt affection,
Yudhishthir"

Vaidehi's eyes welled up with tears. His words were simple yet filled with respect and sincerity. She felt a warmth spread through her heart, knowing he cared for her feelings.

The next morning, Vaidehi called her handmaid. "Please inform my father that I have made my decision. I accept the proposal."

The handmaid smiled and hurried to deliver the message. The family rejoiced at Vaidehi's acceptance, and preparations for the grand wedding began.

In Hastinapur, news of Vaidehi's agreement reached Yudhishthir, who couldn't hide his relief and joy. His heart felt lighter, and for the first time in months, he allowed himself to smile freely. As the palace buzzed with wedding preparations, Yudhishthir looked forward to the day when he would see Vaidehi again, this time as his queen.

The journey to their union had begun, filled with anticipation and the promise of a beautiful future together.