"White Nala and Damyanti -2 Now, in the royal Lakes, lived a flock of swans. They watched dismayed as the young king went to pieces over Damyanti in front of them. Finally, unable to witness this, the leader of the swans approached the king and asked, Sire, what troubles you so? Hearing the swan's sympathetic tone, Nala poured his heart out. He told the swan about his love for Damyanti and the delay in the swayamvara. That is all! the swan reacted gleefully. Nala looked on as the swan added, "King Nala, I will help you! I am a bird! with the help of my wings, I will fly to Damyanti and carry your message of love! The king gladly allowed this and the swan flew off. When the swan returned, be had wonderful news for Nala. Sire, Damyanti too has heard of you and is equally enamoured! She has promised to influence her father for a swayamvara soon! Since Damyanti could not directly tell her father, as it was improper, she pretended to look unwell and glum! Alarmed, her parents immediately ordered the royal physiciansto find out what was troubling their child; The doctors found nothing wrong and the parents caught the hint. They realized that their daughter had now grown up and it was time for her to get married! So, a swayamvara was announced and Nala cheerfully left for Damyanti's father's kingdom. (to be continue) ©Sanjoy Khuman "