There was a uniquely sweet smell surrounding him in the palanquin. He could not fathom what it was, but it was intoxicating. His mind was playing tricks on him. He now thought it might not be a bad idea to meet Nandini once more. He wanted to see what she wanted from him. He also wanted to know the truth behind the mute queen in Lanka, looking similar to her.
Vandhiyathevan thought for a bit. While he should stick to speaking only the truth, he thought it better to not talk about the Prince to anyone for the near future. He should first consult the Princess and then act as per her suggestion.
All he needed to do now was to get to Princess Kundavai, update her of the events, and then take rest. He imagined the happiness that the Princess would feel, when he gave the updates about her brother.
The next dawn broke beautifully. Birds rustled out of their sleep and flew out of their trees. Insects buzzed around the flowers and on the water surface. Poonkuzhali woke up with a start. Sendhan Amudhan was rowing the boat. The Prince was still sleeping in front of her. Was he sleeping? Or was he still unconscious from the fever.
“I will not accept that. You are the daughter of the God Varuna. You are Samudra Kumari. How many times have you rescued me? I do not know how to repay you.”
Poonkuzhali stopped running and turned around. And at that exact moment, she heard a mellifluous song start – “Ponnaar Meniyane…”.
She broke into laughter. She recognised Sendhan Amudhan’s voice. “Athaan, is that you? Come forward. I cannot see you in the dark.”
The Prince continued, “I think I have the fever that was spreading all across Lanka, the one I told you about, the other day. Take me to my sister. Take me to Princess Kundavai.”
Around 1200 years ago, the Chozha dynasty started as a small kingdom under the able leadership of Vijayalaya Chozhan. He conquered the city of Thanjavur
The General paused for a bit. “But beware, do not get too close to the Prince. It is not good for you. You should realise who you are, and who he is. Stick to casting your net in the sea and catching fish. Do not even attempt to cast your net on the Prince. This is my final warning.”
Another bolt of lightning lit the sky. And right in front of them was a ship with its mast burning. In that light, the Prince could see a lone man standing next to the mast.
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