What mysterious, magical power lay in the youthful golden face of Prince Arulmozhi, none could say. Even in that moment, the prince did not frown. Not the slightest sign of anger appeared on his countenance. Like Krishna caught in the act of stealing butter, he stood with an expression that seemed to confess guilt, yet without a trace of shame. There was no sign that he intended to find fault with the young Pazhuvettarayar or to rebuke him. Nor was there the least hint of defiance or intent to oppose him.

Yet, in that instant, the hands and feet of the fearless, resolute Kaalandhaka Kandar trembled uncontrollably. Sweat broke out upon his face. Not knowing what else to do, he pressed his palms together in reverence and said, his voice quivering with emotion, “Son of Ponni! Conqueror of Lanka! Blessed child of the Chola land! What is this disguise? What is this deed? What crime have I committed to deserve such punishment?… I beg you to forgive the mistake I made just now. Grant me your gracious pardon. I have become like a blind man, unable to see…”

As he was about to continue in the same manner, the prince interrupted him, “Commander! What is this? How could you, of all people, commit a crime? And how could this ignorant youth presume to forgive you?”

“Even if you were to sever the hand that held you back, it would not be punishment enough. Even if you were to cut out the tongue that called you ‘boy’—that would not suffice…”

“Your words fall harshly upon my ears. Enough, please stop! You were only fulfilling your duty, carrying out your responsibility. Where is the fault in that? The mistake is mine. I came here in this disguise, as a mahout…”

“I never expected it, truly. How could you do such a thing? For what reason? Should I have welcomed the great hero of Chola Nadu in this manner? Should I not have waited at the front entrance, observing every custom and courtesy, with the drums of victory resounding in all eight directions to greet you?”

“It was precisely because I knew you would do so that I came in this disguise. This is not the right time for such honors. Do you not know? Did not the Princess of Kodumbalur just now speak of the evil schemes of conspirators? I believe there may be truth in her words…” “Prince! Have you counted me among those Pandya conspirators as well?...”

“Heavens! I am filled with joy at heart, seeing the arrangements you have made to protect my father, the Emperor. First, let me see my father, and then…”

“Did you think I would prevent you from seeing the Emperor? If anyone has told you that I am such a sinner…”

“I would never have believed it, Commander!”

“Then why this disguise?”

“Could I have entered the fort in any other way? Think about it! Armies from the south have surrounded the fort. Periya