When Vandiyathevan finished recounting his adventures in the forests of Anaimalai, Kundavai looked at him and said, “Sir! The tale you have told is truly astonishing. At times, I even wondered if these were real events. I know well your talent for spinning stories. Especially when you frequently paused, glancing up and down before resuming your speech—my doubts only grew stronger!”

Once again, Vandiyathevan glanced up and down, then turned to Kundavai. “Devi! There are other places more suitable for telling fanciful tales. I have never displayed that particular skill before you. There is another reason for the interruptions in my speech!”

“Is that too a great secret? One that cannot be told to women?” asked Princess Kundavai.

“It is indeed a secret that should not be told to anyone. But if you grant me permission, I shall reveal it to you!” replied Vandiyathevan.

“You always have my permission to speak the truth!” said Kundavai.

“In that case, I shall tell you, and you need not be angry with me afterward. Sometimes, while I am speaking with you, my gaze inadvertently meets yours. I do not know what rare magic lies in your dark eyes, Devi, but it leaves me utterly bewildered. Only after composing myself can I resume speaking!” he said.

Kundavai’s lips parted; dimples appeared in her cheeks; her eyes sparkled with laughter. “Sir! There is no rare magic in my eyes. Not even any dark sorcery. I have even stopped applying kohl for some time now. What you saw in my eyes was only your own reflection. That alone must have startled you!”

“Devi! I have seen my own reflection in mirrors. I have seen it in clear water. Never on those occasions have I been so astonished!” said Vallavaraiyan.

“Are you comparing my eyes to mirrors and water? Mirrors can tarnish; water can become muddied!” said the princess.

“If a mirror is smudged, I can wipe it clean. I can make sure the water stays clear and unclouded. But if your eyelids close and draw a curtain over your eyes, hiding my form, is there anything I can do to stop it?” asked Vandiyathevan.

“It is only when one stands before a mirror that a reflection appears. It is only when water remains clear and undisturbed that an image can be seen. But whether my eyes are open or closed, whether you stand before me or not, your form always shines within my eyes. Can you tell me the reason for this miracle?” asked Kundavai.

A shiver ran through Vandiyathevan’s body. In a trembling voice, he replied, “I do not know, Devi!”

“If you do not know, then I shall tell you. There is some wondrous, magical power within you. Even the heart of Nandini, who came with a diamond-hard resolve to destroy the Chola dynasty, was shaken upon seeing you, was it not?”

“Just now, you spoke words sweeter than nectar and filled me with ecstasy. In the very next breath, why do you utter