The palace gardens were abloom with vibrant colors as spring burst forth in Kapilavastu. Pink flowers of the ashoka tree fluttered gently in the breeze, releasing their sweet perfume.
Yellow buds dotted the coral trees like streaks of molten
sunshine. In the center of it all, Yasodhara rested on a silken cushion, gazing out at the natural splendor with a joyful heart. Her belly was round and full with child, awaiting arrival at any moment. After several years of marriage to her husband Prince Siddhartha, her dearest wish was soon to be fulfilled.