The timing was perfect for the end of the performance and for the meal to be served. Bundles of lotus leaves were brought and spread before the warriors. Then, steaming hot pongal and savory curries were served to them.

Once the warriors began to eat, the prince moved among them, making inquiries as he walked along the rows. Here and there, he paused to ask after the health and well-being of the soldiers. Those who were thus questioned felt themselves plunged into an ocean of bliss. Their neighbors congratulated them on their good fortune.

Already, the warriors of Chola Nadu held great affection for the young prince. In recent times, that affection had grown manifold. They knew well the efforts the prince had made to ensure that the foods they craved from their homeland were supplied to them. Moreover, the prince mingled freely with the ordinary soldiers, treating them as equals, inquiring after their welfare, and encouraging them. This quality had made the warriors regard the prince as the very apple of their eye.

Therefore, the warriors tried to detain the prince here and there. Summoning their courage, they would ask him questions. Chief among these was, “When will we march upon the city of Pulathiya?” To this, the prince replied to some, “What use is there in attacking Pulathiya city? Has not Mahindan already fled to Rohana?” To others, he said, “Wait a little, let the rainy season pass.”

Some warriors voiced their dissatisfaction at having to remain idle without battle. Others said, “If only you would come and see us like this once a month, we could bear the wait patiently.”

When the inspection of the rows was complete, the prince withdrew to his quarters, set apart for him. He took Vandiyathevan and Azhwarkadiyan with him.

“Did you see the enthusiasm of these warriors?” he said. “If only we had received proper support from Thanjai, by now the whole island of Lanka would be ours. A golden opportunity has been wasted. Here, it is impossible to wage war during the rainy season. For the next three or four months, our warriors must remain idle!” Hearing this, Thirumalai said, “Prince! It is astonishing that you are troubled by such concerns. There, the very Chola Empire itself is facing a great danger! The kingdom founded by Vijayalaya Chola, the mighty empire that flourished and expanded under Paranthaka and Sundara Chola, now seems on the verge of being torn asunder by internal perils!”

“Yes, yes! Both of you have brought important news, while I am here airing my petty anxieties. Very well; now, tell me everything you have to say in detail. Let him begin first!” said the prince, pointing to Vandiyathevan.

Vandiyathevan at once began his tale. He recounted everything he had seen and heard since his departure from Kanchi. Though he appeared reluctant to elaborate on the daring deeds he had performed to escape from many dangers, he nevertheless revealed his exploits.

At the end, he said, “Sir! Your esteemed father is being held as though a prisoner. Close relatives, powerful officials, and minor kings have joined together in a terrible conspiracy. Because of all this, your younger sister, the princess, is sunk in deep distress. Therefore, you must set out with me for Pazhaiyarai at once. Not a moment must be lost!”

Afterwards, Azhwarkkadiyan narrated his own account. He confirmed all that Vandiyathevan had said. In addition, he spoke of the murderous plot that had taken place near the Thiruppurambiyam hermitage in the dead of night. He reiterated the message sent by the Prime Minister, stressing that, given the perilous state of affairs in Chola Nadu, it was best for the prince not to return there at present.

“The Prime Minister not only requests that you do not return to Chola Nadu at this time, but also asks that you do not further extend your military campaign here. He wishes that all the troops be gathered and stationed in northern Lanka. The conspirators will soon reveal themselves and show their true nature. At that time, the army now in Lanka will prove most useful, in the Prime Minister’s opinion. The Kaikolar army, the Vanniyar army, and the Velalar army now in Pandya Nadu are all waiting to offer their bodies, wealth, and souls for your sake. The Prime Minister instructed me to inform you of this as well!” said Azhwarkkadiyan. “Thirumalai! What does your guru think of himself? Does he fancy himself to be the Chanakya of love, just as Chanakya was to Pataliputra? Does he wish me to quarrel with my own kith and kin?” the prince asked angrily.

“No, my lord! Aniruddhar did not say so. But he believes that those plotting against the Emperor, those who have begun to betray the empire, must be punished at the right moment. Is it not your duty to assist in this?” replied Thirumalai.

“How am I authorized to do that? If there is truly a conspiracy, is it not the Emperor’s responsibility to take appropriate action? Without my father’s command, how can I involve myself in this matter?” said the prince.

At this, Vandiyathevan interjected, “Prince! Your father is not free at this moment! The Pazhuvettarayar lords have virtually imprisoned him. They have kept him inside the palace, so securely that no one can approach him. Your elder brother has taken a vow not to come to Thanjai. In this situation, is it not your responsibility to safeguard the empire? Is it not your duty to come to Pazhayarai at once?”

“What necessity is there for the prince to go to Pazhayarai? That is what I do not understand!” said Azhwarkadiyan.

The prince, after a moment’s contemplation, said, “The desire for land is a terrible thing. What dreadful sins have been committed in this world for the sake of a throne! I went to Simhagiri Fort today, did I not? Do you know the history of that fort?”

“I have not heard it,” said Vandiyathevan.

“I shall tell