Taking another small bite of the sweet, he sighed contentedly. "You know," he began, his voice taking on a slightly more formal tone, "these peda are truly fit for a king."
Rahul's Mom chuckled softly, while the two boys exchanged curious glances. The shopkeeper, however, seemed to study the stranger with a newfound intensity.
King Vikramaditya then reached into his pouch once more, but this time, instead of coins, he withdrew a signet ring, its royal crest gleaming in the fading light. He presented it to Rahul's Mom. "Please accept this."
Recognition dawned on the mother's face, her eyes widening in astonishment. She gasped softly, and Bade Rahul instinctively bowed his head. Young Rahul, still a little bewildered, looked from his mother to the ring and back to the kind stranger.
The shopkeeper, with a knowing smile, also bowed slightly. "Your Majesty," he murmured respectfully.
King Vikramaditya smiled warmly. "Please, rise. There is no need for formality. I have been walking among my people, as I often do, to learn and to understand. Today, I have learned a valuable lesson from your family."
He looked at young Rahul. "Your desire to m
Chapter 4: The King's Lesson
Savoring the peda, King Vikramaditya remarked, "Truly fit for a king." He then presented a signet ring. Recognition flashed in Rahul's Mom's eyes. "Your Majesty?" she whispered.
"I've learned much from your kindness," the King smiled. He praised Rahul's thoughtfulness, Bade Rahul's appreciation, and their mother's loving upbringing. He also acknowledged the shopkeeper's compassion.
"This sweet, made with love, is invaluable," he declared, offering them more coins. With a final smile, he departed, leaving them with the lingering scent of saffron and the memory of a king's humble visit. Kindness, like their shared sweetness, had touched a royal heart.
The End
How does this shorter version feel? 😊