As they walked, Vandiyathevan drew close to Azhwarkkadian and said, “What is this, why does the prince behave so? That day he suddenly started a wrestling match; today he jumped into a knife fight. Couldn’t he at least announce before starting a fight? The prince’s friendship seems to be quite dangerous!”

The prince, overhearing this, had already come near them.

“Yes, sir! My friendship is indeed very dangerous. Didn’t you realize that last night itself? If you wish to avoid danger, you must keep at least ten leagues away from wherever I am!” he said.

“Prince, that’s not what I meant. I am ready to face any danger that comes from being near you. But you—why do you act so suddenly, without warning…”

At this, the valiant Vaishnavite interjected, “Don’t you understand, brother? The prince used this tactic to find out who was approaching and to act accordingly! Whoever they might be, if they see a knife fight, they’ll at least pause to watch, won’t they?”

The prince said, “Thirumalai’s words are true. There’s also something peculiar in my horoscope. Whoever becomes my friend is sure to attract the envy and enmity of others. That’s why, if I desire someone’s friendship, it is my habit to quarrel with them often. Only those who don’t mind this can remain my friends!”

“In that case, fine! From now on, I won’t wait for you to start a fight—I’ll begin it myself. Prince! I, who brought you news, forgot to tell you something important. I wish to tell it now! I must tell it. If you don’t wish to hear it, pick up your knife again!” said Vandiyathevan.

“No need! Tell me the news, I am listening.”

“In the crowd that surrounded us, there was a woman standing with a lotus stem in her hand. Didn’t you even say that I was defeated by her glance? Do you know who that woman is?” “I do not know; I did not see her clearly. I have no habit of observing her either.”

“Prince! She is the one who sent you a message; I forgot to tell you. How shall I explain? Ever since I met you, I have been busy fighting alongside you and escaping from having a house collapse on my head! So, I never found the right moment to tell you. When I suddenly saw that girl, I remembered that I had not conveyed her message. I was a bit startled at that moment. Just then, you struck my sword away…”

“Let it be; who is that girl? Why should she send me a message?”

“Sir! She is Poonguzhali.”

“A beautiful name. But I have never heard of it.”

“Sir! Do you remember the name ‘Samudra Kumari’?”

“Samudra Kumari—Samudra Kumari—I do not recall such a name! I do not even remember seeing her!”

“Please, try to remember a little. If you do not remember, that girl’s heart will break. At Kodikkarai, you were about to board a boat to reach the ship.