The palanquin bearing the Prime Minister, Aniruddha Brahmarayar, made its way through the gathered crowd in the moonlit courtyard. The people parted to either side, making way for him, and as he passed, they offered their respects. Many voiced their worries about the prince. The Prime Minister’s face, too, was clouded with concern. Yet, raising both hands, he gestured to the people, offering them comfort and blessings as he went.

When the palanquin reached the entrance of the palace, it was set down. The Prime Minister stepped out and first looked up. Seeing the Periya Rani and the princess standing above, he offered them his salutations. Then he turned his gaze to the spot where the recent skirmish had taken place. All this while, Vandiyathevan and Pinagapani, oblivious to the events around them, had continued their quarrel. Alwarkadiyan slipped in between them and whispered something in the Prime Minister’s ear. Turning to his attendants, the Prime Minister commanded, “Arrest these ruffians who are causing a disturbance in the palace courtyard at once!” Alwarkadiyan, along with the attendants, pushed through the crowd. The attendants seized the two combatants and bound their hands with rope. At a signal from Alwarkadiyan, Vandiyathevan offered no resistance as he was taken into custody.

Aniruddhar ascended to the upper floor. Standing there, he addressed the crowd: “I know your worries and your anger. The Emperor and the Queens are as deeply grieved as you. Do not do anything that will add to their sorrow. Arrangements have already been made to search for the prince. All of you, please return to your homes in peace.”

“We want to see the Emperor! The Emperor must return to Pazhaiyarai!” someone in the crowd called out.

“What is the fate of our brave men in Lanka?” another asked.

“The Emperor is safe in the Tanjore palace. The Velakkara guards are watching over him day and night. I myself will bring the Emperor to this city as soon as possible. Do not worry about our men in Lanka; the war there has ended in complete victory for us. Our soldiers will soon return and—” “The Chera forces are coming!” announced the Prime Minister, and at once a great wave of excitement and jubilant shouts swept through the crowd. The people offered their praises to Sundara Chozhar and Anbil Aniruddhar, then began to disperse.

The Prime Minister turned to the Great Queen and said, “Devi, I must speak with you about matters of utmost importance! Shall we proceed inside the palace?”

He glanced at the Princess and added, “Amma! I will come to you later.” With that, Kundavai set off toward her own chambers.

At that moment, her mind was beset by many worries. If there was anyone in the Chola Empire whom Kundavai feared, it was the Prime Minister Aniruddhar. He was a man with the eyes of a hawk. Not only could he see with his outward gaze, but he seemed to pierce right through the hearts of those before