Chapter 25 - Thanjavur Fort

Chola Flag with Tiger Sigil

The signet ring with the image of the palm tree was like the magic ring in mythological tales. At the entrance of the fort, there were flower-sellers, vegetable and fruit vendors waiting to get inside; the guards were exercising the utmost authority in allowing them inside.

But our young hero did not hesitate, he walked up briskly towards the entrance and showed his magic ring to them. Immediately ,the guards respectfully withdrew and opened the door to let him inside.

Vandiya Devan did not know that this was a momentous occasion - his stepping inside the fort. This would set off a chain of many important events in the history of the Chola kingdom.

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Chapter 24 - The Crow And The Nightingale

Vandiya Devan slept like a log the whole night. In the morning he woke up only when he heard Senthan Amudan singing beautiful hymns while plucking flowers from the garden. He instantly felt sorry for his friend's mother, who couldn't hear such a beautiful voice. His sweet voice, pure devotion and simple life made Vandiya Devan to ponder on his own life and mission.

"Why should I forever roam around like this carrying a sword ready to kill somebody or be killed by somebody? Why shouldn't I tend a garden like Senthan Amudan and live my life peacefully?" thought Vandiya Devan.

After some time his thoughts ran in a different direction. "Not everybody can be good soul like Senthan Amudan. There are people who plot against one other and try to harm others. People need a king to protect them. And kings need bodyguards like Velkarars to protect them from enemies. They also need messengers like me. Yes, today I will have to meet the King at any cost before Periya Pazhuvettarayar returns."

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Chapter 21 - The Veil Parted

Can a man dwell in two different worlds at the same time?

Yes he can. If you need any proof, you must take a glimpse at Vandiya Devan.

As he was traveling through the Chola Kingdom, his eyes were admiring the beauty of the rich Chola land.

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Chapter 13 - Waxing Moon

Kundavai and Vanathi

After the chariot had left, the Jodhidar took Vandiya Devan inside his hut to his pooja room.

After pointing him to a seat, the Jodhidar asked him, “Who are you, thambi? How did you come here?”

Vandiya Devan started laughing.

“Why are you laughing, thambi?”

“Nothing, Jodhidaray! I was thinking that since you are such a learned astrologer, can’t you find out who I am through your astrology.”

“Why not? I can find that out myself. But the only problem is that if I see astrology that way, then who is going to pay my fees?”

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Chapter 14

Chapter 12 - Nandini

Pazhuvur Queen - Nandini

You are probably wondering how Vandiya Devan arrived at the Jodhidhar’s house when we had left him on the banks of Kollidam.

Here is how it happened.

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Chapter 13