Let us now turn our attention to what became of the missing Vandiyathevan.

We saw him slip away and hide near the darkened palace, did we not? At first, he tried to listen in on what the sorcerer and Nandini were discussing. But not a word of their conversation reached his ears. Nor did he have much desire to eavesdrop and discover what they were saying. He now realized that, while speaking with Nandini, his senses had deserted him and a strange, intoxicating stupor had overtaken his mind. It would be best, he thought, if he could escape without encountering her again. Far more danger lurked in falling into the hands of this young queen than in being caught by the Pazhuvettaraiyars. In their presence, his wits worked sharply; the pain in his shoulder surged; his hand always rested on the dagger at his waist. He could rely on cunning or, if need be, on his blade. But before this enchantress, his mind grew clouded; his hand lost the strength to grasp his dagger. What fate might befall him if he went before her again? Enough—more than enough! She even keeps the company of a sorcerer! What sorcery might the two of them conjure together? How much hatred does she harbor toward Princess Kundavai? That hatred sparkles in her eyes like embers! Perhaps, on a sudden change of heart, she might even hand him over to the Pazhuvettaraiyars! Are not the fickle hearts and wavering minds of women renowned? Therefore, it would be best to escape without meeting her again. But how? He would have to find a way through the garden! He would have to climb the wall and jump down! What if those searching for him were waiting outside the wall?… Was there no other way? Where had the luck that had aided Vandiyathevan all these days gone? Think! Think! Use your wits! Use your eyes as well! Look all around you!

Here stands this palace, shrouded in darkness! Why is it so dark? What lies within? If he entered, where might another door lead him? Could he not go inside and have a look? Even if it did not help him now, it might prove useful another time. Who would know? But how to enter? What a massive, grand door! What a huge lock! My goodness! What strength! What solidity! Ah! What is this? There seems to be a small door within the main one! As soon as he placed his hand on it, the little door opened… How fortunate! If this is not luck, then what is? I must go inside and see!

Opening the small, cleverly concealed door within the large main entrance, Vandiyathevan slipped into the dark palace. The very first thought that struck him as he set foot inside was that even Nandini must not know he had entered this place. So, he quietly shut the little door behind him.

As soon as he closed it, the darkness within seemed to grow even