When Pazhuvetaraiyar entered the astrologer’s house, Kundavai Piratti and Vanathi were truly there. Ever since dawn had broken and the queen of Eezham was nowhere to be seen, Kundavai’s mind had lost its peace. At the same time, the disappearance of Poonguzhali had heightened her distress. She went to see the Prime Minister Aniruddha. At that moment, news had arrived regarding Arulmozhi Chozhan. She learned that, due to the storm that struck Nagapattinam, he had been forced to reveal himself, and that a great crowd had gathered and was bringing him to Thanjai with triumphant shouts. Kundavai’s agitation knew no bounds. She felt that some calamity was about to befall them.

She wished to meet Ponniyin Selvan on the way, speak with him, and inform him of all that had transpired in Thanjai. If he tried to enter the Thanjai fort surrounded by a vast crowd, Pazhuvetaraiyar’s soldiers would surely attempt to stop him. Meanwhile, news had come that Boothi Vikrama Kesari had reached Kodumbalur with the southern forces. The two armies might clash near Thanjai. That would certainly wound her father’s heart; it might even endanger his very life. Who could say what further consequences might arise? The hearts of the people, already unsettled by the storm, were in turmoil. Surely, some misfortune was bound to occur; a great civil strife might erupt, threatening to destroy the entire Chola land. How could it be quelled afterwards? Was it not better to prevent it beforehand, rather than try to stop it once it had begun? Otherwise, all the efforts made so far would be in vain.

Therefore, Arulmozhi Chozhan must be met on the way and detained for a while at Pazhayarai. The elder Pazhuvetaraiyar must also be summoned from Kadambur. Only after informing him that Arulmozhi had no desire to rule, and obtaining his consent, should Arulmozhi be brought to Thanjai.

Having thus resolved within herself, without even telling her father, and confiding only in her mother and Aniruddha, she set out, taking with her the inseparable Vanathi. Before going to Pazhayarai, she wished to see the Kudanthai astrologer once more. Is it not human nature, when anxiety grows too great, to seek knowledge of the future through astrology? As was her custom, she left her chariot near the Amman temple and entered the astrologer’s house. She had barely begun to express her worries to the astrologer when, suddenly, a commotion arose at the entrance of the house. Above all, the unmistakable booming voice of Pazhuvetaraiyar sent a thrill of apprehension through her. There was only one man who could roar with such majesty—the great Periya Pazhuvetaraiyar himself.

It appeared that Pazhuvetaraiyar was pushing past the astrologer’s disciple, who was trying in vain to block his way, and was about to enter. How had he come here? For what reason? And at this very moment?

Ah! Perhaps he had come to consult the astrologer! If she could overhear their conversation, she might learn what was in his mind. At this time, when the kingdom and the royal family were facing such grave peril, knowing the thoughts of Periya Pazhuvetaraiyar would be of immense value. Now, a rare opportunity had presented itself. But if he saw her and Vanathi there, what would he think? Surely, he would misunderstand! There could be no doubt. Therefore, it would be best to remain out of his sight...

Kundavai, signaling her intention to the astrologer with a gesture, quickly took Vanathi by the hand and hurried into the next room.

No sooner had the door to the room they entered been closed than Pazhuvetaraiyar strode inside. The astrologer, rising in a flurry, greeted him with folded hands and gazed at him intently, then looked all around. Surprise and disappointment were evident on his face, but only for a moment. He quickly composed himself.

“Astrologer! Do you know who I am? It is I, the chief dignitary, Periya Pazhuvetaraiyar! Why do you stare at me so? Have I changed so much that you do not recognize me? I have come to you for an important matter! You must do me a great favor. But first, if you have anything to eat, bring it to me; I am very hungry. I will tell you what I need as I eat,” he said.

The astrologer, flustered, replied, “Sir! What great help could this poor wretch possibly render you? It is the good fortune earned by my ancestors that has brought you to seek out this humble hut. I cannot offer you a feast befitting your rank. Yet, whatever is in this hut is yours. Please, be seated. Why do you remain standing? I was startled the moment I saw you, and so I failed to welcome and serve you properly. Alas! There is not even a seat worthy of you in this humble dwelling. With your generous heart, you must be content to sit on that plank,” he said, pointing to the very planks upon which Kundavai and Vanathi had just been seated.

Pazhuvettaraiyar glanced at the platters and the flowers scattered beside them, then said, “Astrologer! No, I do not have time to sit. If you have anything to eat, wrap it in a leaf and hand it to me. I must send an urgent message to Thanjai, to my brother Kaalandhaka Kandan... Do you have a palm-leaf and a stylus? ...No, never mind! I do not have time to sit and write a letter. I will give you my signet ring. Can you take it and go to Thanjavur at once? Or, your disciple who was standing at the door—he looks like a sturdy fellow. Can you send him immediately?” he asked.

“Whatever your command, I shall do exactly that. Both I and my disciple can go, if needed. But, my lord! Please be gracious enough to sit for a short while in this poor man’s hut, and taste the nectar this humble one offers before you leave!”

“Astrologer! Why do you keep calling yourself