The third of three children, all daughters, Ivani was born to strict, traditional parents. Devout Hindu, they were a moderately well to do family and had chosen a husband for her at birth. Although conservative in their political, social, and religious stances, they did believe in allowing their daughters to achieve at least a good, basic education. She was expected to finish her schooling at eighteen, then marry her betrothed and make a house and home as well as bear children.
Ivani didn't particularly care to accept this fate. She was expected to remain chaste and pure, but she and her intended were allowed to meet from time to time. He, however, was arrogant, rude, and obviously had no intention to allow her to further her education, despite her desire to do so.
When she was fourteen a young man who had just entered into the University arrived in Delhi. He was striking to behold in the young girl's eyes and she'd caught his attention. The two ran into each other several times in various places in the city. On one of these occasions, they struck up a conversation. After that, they began to coordinate meetings, usually with other friends. Had her parents discovered her intentions, they would have forbidden her to go out to meet him, or even force a chaperone on her.
Alagarasu was several years older than Ivani. After his schooling came to an end, he joined Starfleet Academy. The two kept in touch. Even if they could not chat face to face over video, they wrote letters to each other almost every day.
As Alagarasu's Academy days came to a close, Ivani's own days were numbered. Her parents began to make preparations for the wedding between her and the man they had chosen. It was then Alagarus returned. He had just finished his Academy training and expected to hear about his assignment any day. He knocked upon Ivani's parents' door and then officially asked for her hand.
Her parents refused and Alagarasu was physically thrown out. Because of his appearance, her parents realised she'd been going behind their back and severe fight ensued. In the end, Ivani was told she could not leave the house without her mother or an adult of their choosing present. The young woman retreated to her room and wept.
Alagarasu wasn't about to give up. He asked a female friend to visit and she passed along a message. A week later,
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