The shrill ‘kreech’ of the parrot, mingled with the nursemaid’s frightened cry, startled both Nandini and Kandanmaran. Kandanmaran turned to see who had come, and when he realized it was Pazhuvettarayar approaching, his heart was thrown into confusion. A sudden fear seized him: had the lord overheard him say, “I too do not like Pazhuvettarayar,” just moments ago? Even more terrifying was the thought that Pazhuvettarayar might suspect something improper between himself and Nandini. That notion sent a chill through his heart. Is it not said that the ways of men who marry in their old age are peculiar? Perhaps that is why he is coming with such anger now. What he would do upon arrival, Kandanmaran could not guess. He must be prepared for anything.

All these thoughts crashed like waves through Kandanmaran’s mind in the span of a single moment. Yet, that day, he was to witness a great marvel—something entirely contrary to what he had feared. As Pazhuvettarayar drew near, Nandini’s face blossomed with a smile. She looked at him with her dark eyes and said, “My lord! I was afraid you might be delayed in returning. How fortunate that you have come back so soon!”

At the sight of her face and the sound of her voice, all of Pazhuvettarayar’s anger melted away, like wax placed in the fire. He let out a sheepish laugh and said, “Yes, the business I went for is finished; I have returned.”

Then, turning to Kandanmaran, he asked, “What is this boy doing here? Has he come to compose and recite some love poetry for you?” He laughed at his own jest.

Kandanmaran’s face flushed red. But Nandini laughed even more than Pazhuvettarayar and replied, “He knows nothing of love, nor of poetry. He only knows how to get into fights and end up wounded. Fortunately, his wound has healed. He was just saying he wanted to return to his village!”

“What shall we say about the valor of the youth of these days? In twenty-four battles, I have received sixty-four wounds. Yet never once did I take to my bed. But for his wound to heal, he has had to—” “It has been a long time. But all my wounds are on my chest, shoulders, head, and face. This boy, however, was wounded on his back, wasn’t he? That’s why it has taken so long. It is only fair!” he said, and let out a mocking laugh.

Kandanmaran sprang up in anger. “Sir! You stand in my father’s place. That is the only reason I tolerate your mockery!” he said.

“If not, what would you have done, boy?” asked Pazhuvetarayar, placing his hand on the dagger at his waist.

At this moment, Nandini intervened. “My lord! He does not bear wounds only on his back. You know well that he has wounds upon his heart as well! The thought that the one he considered his friend stabbed him in the back and fled has left a deep wound in