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Chaturmukaha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Two - Locked within Oneself
A Woman of Conscience
"What actually are you trying to prove", questioned Vadhana. "Whatever it should be, it's either I accept or I don't. Anyway, why are you so determined to go to war”.
"Because we are not cowards and cannot tolerate a single man dictating us how to lead our life on our own land", Rana said with a pitched voice. "The people's army have widened, the freemen are prepared to join and I assure we will get the support of our neighbours", he paused and looking straight into her eyes he said, "We can win this war, Vadhana"
"I need time, Rana", replied Vadhana hesitantly, "I think about our people. I wish to give them bread, not dust".
"Let the time you take to decide not ruin the future of this country", said Rana. "The appointee of the Emperor will reach the Palace soon, hope you are clear by then", Rana stromed towards the door.
Sena saw Rana coming out of the Queen's room. By the look at his face, Sena knew that Rana did not win the conversation. Rana halted his quick walk beside Sena. His brother comforted him by placing his hands on his shoulders. A moment later Sena entered the Queen's room.
"Do you know how difficult it is to sleep with the murderer of my father, Sena", Vadhana asked. "But Rana did what has to be done, the way it had to be done. I supported him and will support him till my end. But war will produce not peace but many fatherless children. The Emperor will ransack our Empire one way or the other, I premit him to proceed gentely with Kottaipatinaml".
"Do you know how paining it is to close the eyes for the murderer who had slaughtered his own family", Sena spoke under a placid voice.
Startled, Vadhana looked at Sena. Then and there, Sena walked here through pain. He showed her agony. He illustrated deception. He spoke to her about Sugandi and Lalli, including the ploys of Vettaiyan behind the death of their fathers.
Sena stood silent allowing the depth to sink inside Vadhana.
"You are wasting your time here Sena", the door opened and Rana walked and talked at the same. He was facing the back of Vadhana and in a few quick steps he joined his brother facing Vadhana. She had her head hung down. Rana stood breathing out his anger beside his calm brother. Vadhana raised her head. Rana was shocked to see her eyes burning red. The flood of tears had washed away the black ink around her eyeslash, that dry black streams marked her face. She briefly looked at Rana, and quickly turned towards the door.
"We go to War", she walked valliantly towards the door ; the brothers making identic strides marched behind her.
"What did you tell her ?", asked Rana curiously when the brothers were outside on the corridor.
Sena smiled and replied, "Unmaiya Sonnen [I told the truth]".
The three men were seated behind a oval desk opposite to Vadhana. Sena was standing with arms folded looking out at the sunset. Vadhana signed the ballot paper.
"As mentioned by the Head of the Council, if the Kings of Katrupuzha and Karimedai are present during the poll, it would be influential. We should go to Karimedai and persuade King Gauthama for reinforcement", Rana said enthusiastically.
In the brief silence around him, Rana looked at the Nobleman and Putran. A while later, the Nobleman said, "It's not possile".
"Why ?", asked Rana, "I thought King Gauthama had taken a neutral stand. Is he sold out too ?". He looked at the blank face of Putran.
Sena walked back to the desk. He stood in front of Rana and slowly placed the palms of his hugging arms on the table. He leaned forward towards Rana and revealed, "Enakku Innoru Per Irukku [I go by another name]".
... to be continued ...
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Chaturmukaha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Two - Locked within Oneself
Mercy of the King
"Baasha !", Rana exclaimed, "You were a chariot racer, working for an annonymous employer, to sabotage a royal wedding, by winning the race, then, slipped away from the hipodrome after the victory, as you were not interested with the Princess, and finally escaped the kingdom by faking your death, so that no one would come looking for you ? Did I miss any detail ?"
Sena stood slient looking at his brother. "Your calmness is chilling", said Rana, "Atleast assure me that Baasha did not commit many of his wonders at Katrupuzha too !"
After a brief moment, Rana declared, "I will go alone and talk with King Gauthama". Sena did not remove his eyes from Rana. "What ?", Rana asked and immediately turned his head towards Vadhana. "I would have convinced her. The break I gave was strategical. I walked in again, but you already had her in your words".
"You cannot do this alone, Rana", said Sena, which Rana disapproved. Sena neared Rana and wispered in his ears, "Wisdom is Wealth. The Listener narrated to us the story about my fate". It then struck to him as a hammer on the head.
They got down from the chariot at the front courtyard of King Gauthama's palace. Rana led his team of negociators, the Nobleman and Putran walked beside him followed by Kacha. They mounted the chain of stairs and landed on the grand corridor. The huge door was open and they walked inside the rectangualr Throne room. King Gauthama governed the hall, seated over his throne about a furlong away from the enterance. Both sides were lined with Karimedai Kingsmen who stood up paying their respects to the guests. They exchanged mild nods with the invitees accepting and sharing their non-verbal greetings.
King Gauthama stared at Rana. A familiar face, the visage he cannot forget for both the assistance and pain it had delivered to him. Rana walked majestically. In midway, Sena emerged from behind Rana. King Gauthama stood up instantly, when he saw the second face that resembled also his friend Kochadaiiyaan.
The colors faded. The grey and white images flashed the faces of his nemesis. The grey faded the face of Sena and the white brought forward the visage of Baasha before King Gauthama. He growled in anger stamping his feet, "Baasha !".
As soon as he yelled, the room was swept in slience. It was engulfed by the echoes of a leg bangle. King Gauthama looked at the ceiling. His lips withered and a tear dropped from his eye when he heard the sound of movement above him. He stared back at Sena and ordered his men to apprehend the criminal.
Dozens of solidiers surrounded the brothers. Couple of them caught Sena from behind by coupling his arms with thier hands. Three of them started to chain Sena. Putran and Kacha were startled to see Sena taken prisoner. The Nobleman worried that the incident would precipitate a political crisis. Rana did not show any reaction. He maintained his allure while moving forward. He stopped before the elevated throne platform facing the King. He removed his long sword Vajastra and got down on one knee placing the blade on his palms.
"Almighty of Karimedai, I, the Chief of Kottaipattinam, along with the councillors of our Great Nation, salute King Gauthama, his nobles and fellowmen. Her Majesty of Kottaipatinam sends her regrets along with immense respect. O, my Noble King, the one who understands the depth of words without been spoken, Her presence is needed at Kottaipatinam, thus, Her absence be excused just as Her praise falling over your shoulders as a garland", Rana took a bow demonstrating all his sincerity.
King Gauthama sat down over his throne. Sena was in complete arrest, four men secured the chains by holding and pulling its ends tightly. He faced the floor behind his kneeling brother.
"As a single voice of the people of Kottaipattinam, I, the Son of Kochadaiiyaan, give you my word my Lord, that, Rana, the Chief of Kottaipattinam, will surrender his brother Sena to the Great Kingdom of Karimedai. But not on this day, as greater tasks await completion, the result which can only be victory when King Gauthama marches alongside with our Queen Vadhana shouldering the free women and men of our great nations", Rana maintained his stance after completing his speech.
"Rise, the Son of my Friend", King Gauthama talked in a low voice, "Come here, let me take a look at you". Rana walked to the throne. The King watched him with a precious smile in his face. "You talk like your Father", he said, "but that man there, when I saw him for the first time, I thought it was you Father who had sent him to us. He proved us all wrong by turning into a traitor".
King Gauthama fell back on his throne and spoke with pain, "I have become a fragile king and a weak family man. And I lost my beloved granddaughter, the light of my life, because of that man. She locked herself in her chamber, its been ten years now. She refuses any brightness just as anyone would throw the waste. Never I seen her after the chariot race, even if she lived above this throne". Rana stood silent.
The leg bangles sounded from above and King Gauthama saw Kanakavalli standing over the Queen's balcony. Seeing his granddaughter after many years immersed King Gauthama in joy that words failed to release from his mouth. He stood up stretching both his arms and shaked his shoulders in happiness. Kanakavalli stood staring at Sena who still had his head hung.
"This day, in the joy of seeing my granddaughter, I wish not to refuse", he announced with a broad smile, "but I need assurance from you, Rana, that your brother will marry Kanakavalli. Then, the Kingdom of Karimedai will be at your command".
Rana turned and looked at Sena. A while later, Sena lifted his head. He looked at the wrinkled face of the King and then at the dark skinned beauty. He gazed at her pearl white eyes, and then gave a nod at his brother.
Before Rana gave his accord to the King, he was interrupted by an unknown voice, "If the King feels fragile, Shambala will be glad to guide Baasha to his grave", spoke the ally, King Shambala.
His words were followed by steps which sounded like a wood tapping. An young man limped his way towards Sena. Sena watched Shamu, the valliant son of Shambala going in a full circle around him. He stood before him and with his walking stick he tapped his own right leg. Wood hitting wood noise echoed around the hall.
"Sena ?", he asked making a weird face, "Sena it is. The man who made me one legged resembled you a lot. And what was his name ?"
He leaned close to Sena's lips and put his ears infront of them and said "Can't hear you, mate !". Sena stood silent. Rana tried to turn and take a step forward, when King Gauthama held his hand. He closed and opened his eyes symbolically informing Rana to be patient.
He slowly walked to his father, on the way he did not take his eyes from Kanakavalli who was watching from the balcony. He told his father, "I trust Rana, the brother of Baasha. Eventhough one is our foe, the other is a friend. This opputunity, we will use it against the Emperor, the one who is responsible our various states. But once over, I will make sure Baasha sleeps tight".
King of Shambala gave his accord to King Gauthama, who looked around at his ministers and noticing no objection in his people's court, he declared, "For the good cause and for the betterment of the Gauthama Dynasty, Karimedai and her allied nations will assist Queen Vadhana and Cheif Rana of Kottaipattinam in thier War againt wrongful regime. As an extention to the bond, Princess Kanakavalli and Prince Shamu will accompany our associates, as representatives, as will as the symbol of trust in our relationship".
Hearing to the declaration of the King, Rana expressed his gratitude by bowing before him. He joined the others and shaked hands with Putran, received the blessings from the Nobleman and hugged Kacha.
Soldiers liberated Sena, all the while he watched Kanakavalli who stared back at him.
... to be continued ...
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Chaturmukaha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Two - Locked within Oneself
Pathways of Hope and Faith
"The unison is a veritable threat", Vettiayan cursed himself. He thought, escaping assassination attempts were beyond a miracle, the brothers togethers could only put him down, and himself, can crush the twins only when they are alongside - weird conditions of fate. So, he had used the golden opputunity and kept them seperated, as age was not a criteria to achieve and the young brothers could become a potential danger if confornted even when they were young. But united they stand now, the end is near.
Vettaiyan took small walks around his chamber analysing the current suituation - the younger is a warrior, it should be his junior's plan. They had spread a rumor about an inexisting appointee who was on his way to claim Kottaipattinam. With that information spreading like a forest fire, they had convinced the influential to become their ally.
"Why would I take over Kottaipatinam", the thought had put a smile on Vettaiyan's face. The Kingdom was already weakened, moreover the successor was a woman whom he can rule forever. The actual hier to the throne was under his shadows that at any time he can topple Kottaipattinam's government. Even during Rishikodagan's regime most of Kottaipaninam's noblemen, the decision makers were in his payroll, they were still faithful for his diamonds and rings. But the brothers wisely grouped others against him, cornering him. The Central Kingdom will soon face an attack.
"Why not after I send a real appointee !", Vettaiyan inferred. Yes, they have tapped his ego. He will accept the challenge by proving the rumor right, afterall he was not a coward. With one quick move, Vettaiyan joined his palms and clapped thrice.
"Take the most ambitious politician to Kottaipatiam. Accompany him till the gate, you don't enter", Vettaiyan gave orders to The General. When his chief was about to exit through the main doors, Vettaiyans spoke up load with a smile, "Dress up well for the party". The General nodded without turning back and left the chamber.
"The Almigthy of Katrupuzha", Rana began. Sena looked at Kacha, who instantly hung his down to avoid his titter being noticed by exalted presence of the ministers inside the courhouse of Katrupuzha. The Kottaipattinam political headwinds and the top negotiators have come back from visiting other states and tribal lands annexed within the Kingdoms and Rana always started his roaring discours the same way.
"... with your infantry swarming the ground like the migrating birds, My Lord, triumph will be ours,", Rana continued before King Sorubhan, "as the sky wait to shower victory over the the undisputed King of Katrupuzha standing beside Her Majesty of Kottaipattinam before the waves of free women and men", Rana ended his speech looking directly at the eyes of the King.
"Raise my Son", said King Soruban. "You have come to me with two essential deeds sealing completely my refusal - the agreement with my ally the great King Gauthama, and ofcoarse you remind me a lot my friend Kochadaiiyaan. Your Father still walks around our lands, such a Great Man. But my concern is for my men, about their well being". King Soruban was pensive, then he said "One weak point, which is not a secret, is the Navy of my Kingdom. I understand the prowess of Gauthama Dynasty in this field, but before the Emperor's naval and rogue pirates, the ships cannot withstand much of the wind. Also, I worry about their food. Katrupuzha does not produce enough to run a country as well as go for an undetermined days at war", King Soruban sat looking at Rana.
"Your Majesty, your conditions are as important as your words", Rana spoke with confidence. "I, Rana, and my brother Sena the Sons of Kochadaiiyaan assure you that your order will be studied with atmost interest, and when we meet again, our solution will convince your State. The foot-soldiers of Katrupuzha are our brothers, we will not hesitate to give them our grain of food during the needed hour."
"Excellent", praised King Soruban. "My kinsmen, the great thinkers of our glorious Nation, anyone in objection with our friends here, feel free to speak, the freedom be yours". The entire hall was silent. With a huge smile on his face King Soruban declared, "I join with the allies of Kottaipattinam under the autority of Rana, the chief of allied forces. I appoint", he continued", "army General, Kalai, of Katrupuzha to accompany our friends on this conquest and let us bring home victory garlanded with happiness".
Two days later, under heavy pouring rain, Sena got alert when he heard a knock on the front door. He slowly walked and hesitantly opened it. Sena stayed inside over the top and saw Rana standing at the bottom of the small stairs at the enterance. Rana was drenched completely wet. Thunder resonated in harmony with the flashing lightning. He had both his palms joined together at chest level. Sena could not understand but looking at Rana's face swollen up a bit, he was sure that his brother was weeping, tears camouflaging in rain waters. Rana brought his joined hand to his chin and kept looking at his brother. Sena raised his eyebrows.
After a while, Rana rubbed his nose with his fingers and looked up at his brother, "Why didn't you tell me ?"
Vadhana had spoken to Rana. Sena replied, "Because I don't wish you to shoulder it for me, I wish to share my courage instead". Rana made an pitiful angry face and waved in front of his face. He took a deep breathe, "I will wash and decorate your feet with the blood and head of The Poet". Without waiting to hear another word, Rana disappeared into the dark blanklet of droplets.
... to be continued ...
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Chaturmukha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Two - Locked within Oneself
A Message through Murder (part 1/3)
Hills Have Arms
(Rated-R)
"Once Dashakantha went hunting", narrated the Nobleman infornt of the panel of one hundred and twenty four nobles whom he headed.
The Council Hall of Kottaipattinam was full. The visitor's panel was neatly arranged with a new row for the invitees from Karimedai, Katrupuzha, Shambala and various other ally states. The second row was taken by brothers Rana and Sena along with Putran and Kacha. The rest were occupied by lords and merchants. Queen Vadhana presided the throne. Nobleman spoke about the glories of Central Kingdom, including how the empire flourished in art, architecture, music and dance. He reminded his noblemen the efficient foreign policies introduced by the Emperor where trade flourished favouring a part of the soceity. Then he talked about the hunting episode.
"A group of tribals captured him out of vengence over his innumerous malevolent acts. They did not kill him quickly, but wanted him to suffer just like thier loved ones had. They tied Dashakantha to a pole and every member of the tribe beat him with a hard wooden batten through the evening. At night, the beatings were continued by few drunk and distressed men. Suddenly, they saw pairs of red eye emerging from the dark. The next morning the villagers found these men, gruesomely murdered by feral animals, but the scene that shocked them the most was that of the men were lying dead around an empty pole", the Nobleman stopped talking to allow the last words grasp his audiences.
"Shortly after, few masked men marched into the village on horse backs", continued the Nobleman. "They chopped the right hand of every single villager", he paused to clear his throat before continuing, "the aged and children including, and dropped it over the cliff - a heap of fallen arms, a river of red descended from that small hill", the Nobleman paused and looked at the noblemen.
"His General asked the Evil Man, why he didn't kill the wrongdoers. Dashakantha replied 'Upon whom shall I rule, then'".
"The punishment was to install a symbol of fear for the generations to come", the Nobleman stood silent at the center of the hall.
After a brief pause, one of the nobleman proposed, "Uniting with the other Kingdoms, we can nominate a commision to introgate the Emperor on crimes on innocent citizens, keeping this offense as a proof".
"Proof is nothing but anything oneself finds attractive", explained the Head of the Council. "We don't possess such prettiness to convince any united committee. Dashakantha never murdered. He only executed criminals by the laws that govern our Kingdoms. Other offenses were commited by the annonymous. Pointing a finger at masked men as culprits does not serve as a proof. The suferrers were either victims of burns or physical violence or snake bites, but none can be alleged for Dhashakantha's cruelties. And my dear fellowman, have you ever heard such a charge lodged against a powerful man ?"
The questioner sat down.
"But I have", came a voice of an elderly man amoung the noblemen. Pointing at the Head of the Council he said, "and my son is a witness. This very hall silenced truth and jammed justice, when it found Kochadaiiyaan guilty. I was present during that sinful day, feeling weak with my mouthpiece. But today, I raise my voice against the man who orchestrated such injustice in our very own courtroom", the aged nobleman vouched and took his seat.
There were murmurs inside the hall. The brothers now realised the affection of the head of the council towards them.
"I propose this declaration of war", announced the Nobleman. "Voice is free, don't make it cost later". He looked directly at Sena.
Sena instructed the three men around him to be atentive and wait for the Nobleman's signal phrase.
"Admist the corrupted", the Nobleman paused facing the floor. As soon as he uttered those words, the team of vigilants surveilled the panel of nobelmen. Rana & Kacha watched the ones who turned their head, while Sena and Putran observed the one's who blinked.
After the brief pause, the Nobleman continued, "Admist the corrupted, today this group of people will make the decision which will create an opportunity to rewrite history", and he pushed back to create space between the two sides where the noblemen were seated.
Instantly discontented burbles echoed the hall. It became louder and uncontrollable. Sena got up from his chair and slowly walked to the center admist the resteless noblemen.
"At anytime, a man will walk through that door" shouted Sena pointing at the enterance door of the Council Hall. The noisy hall transformed to silence. Sena spoke making eye contacts with the noblemen, "He is going to claim our country in front of us all. Are we going to accept to be ruled by this man with both our arms still attached to our bodies ? We are not one amoung the kingdoms ruled by a trecherous self-appointed emperor. We are a Nation. A Culture of grace and glory. A land where freedom roams. And this is our Motherland, my Motherland. I will not hesitate to put a hole under the forehead of anyone who even tries to look at Her vulnerably. I will die for Her, be it a natural death on this sacred mud or a bloodbath while defending Her on the battle grounds. I fight for them who are with me and also those who are not with me. And I swear to continue fighting for our flag to fly over our Nation disturbed only by the breeze. My men, let's oath to defend our Motherland by shedding our differences and replacing it with loyalty and obedience towards our country".
Opinion poll on the declaration of war with Central Kingdom began quietly, administered by the Head of the Council. The hundred and twenty-four participating members shuffled - the favouring ones took the right side, the opposing sat opposite to them. The King's clerk, a little man, moved from the corner to the center. Standing beside the Head of the Council, he counted the heads of the nobelmen on either side.
The hall was caught by surprise, the result was a draw, with sixty-two members on each side.
... to be continued ...
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Chaturmukha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Two - Locked within Oneself
A Message through Murder (part 2/3)
Hall of Political Worms
The King's clerk asked three times if any of the members wished to alter their support. Upon seeing them sitting over their stance, the Littleman walked back to his desk and retuned with a thick book in his hands. He quickly looked for what he was looking for, before speaking, "The Code of the Council says, at time of a draw, the result shall be decided by chance".
He walked back again, this time climbing the stairs to the throne. He whispered in the Queen's ears and after receiving an approval from her, he descended the stairs and disappered behind the throne. A moment later, he returned with a tiny metal box in his hand. He took out a tiny flat copper disc.
He held it high above his head showing the piece of metal with an official stamp to everyone present in the hall. One side had the Emblem of the Kingdom embossed in gold and the other side held the portrayal of King's head punched on a marble. The size of the coin was slightly smaller than the palm of the Littleman.
"The King stands for the right side, and the Emblem denotes the other part", he said, "Let this coin of our dynasty guide us", and he prepared himself to toss the flat metal piece.
Nobleman looked at Rana and then at Sena. With a gentle hand gesture he halted the Littleman. He took out a folded message from his pocket and requested the Littleman to deliver it to the Queen. The Littleman hesitated. He turned and looked at the Queen. Vadhana nodded. He carried the message to her, and when the Littleman returned, Nobleman asked him to verify few specific codes from the thick book. The Littleman turned several pages, silently read the lines finishing them wide eyed.
"Read them to all of us, please", requested Nobleman, and the Littleman spoke loudly :
Article 7
Section 1
All Noblemen shall be vested in the Council of Kottaipattinam, which shall consist of a Head and House of Nobles.
Section 2
The House of Nobles shall be composed of Hundred and Twenty Five Members chosen by the People, and from the elected, the Head will be nominated by the House of Nobles. The authority over the Head shall be directly with the King. All decisions concerning the State, shall be made in House of Nobles under the governence of the Head through Opinion Polls. The Head creates debates on State issues but never will be permitted to influence or voice in an Opinion Poll.
"I think we know that part", interrupted Nobleman, "Could you please refer and read Sections 7.2 and 7.2.2". The Littleman quickly turned the pages with a huge grin on his face, the grin that reminded to Rana his friend Hanchabadra. The Littleman started reciting what he had discovered a moment back :
Section 7.2
At time of absence of the Head :
Natural and Unnatural Death
Resignation
Retirement
Condemned
The King shall take over the House of Nobles until a new Head is appointed.
Section 7.2.2
Resignation
With a proper demand, the King shall accept a resignation from the Head and hereby, the King shall become the Head of the House of Nobles. The departing Head can leave the House of Nobles or stay within the Council as a Member. If chosen, he will regain all his powers as a Nobleman and can participate in Opinion Polls.
"Thank you, my dear, that was clear", Nobleman said to Littleman, then, he turned towards Queen Vadhana and said, "I request Her Majesty to accept my resignation".
Vadhana looked at Sena. A tiny smile escaped from the corner of her lips. Sena returned her gaze. Quickly, he shifted his sight and kept his eyes on his target sitting on the left side. Vadhana gave her accord to the Nobleman. He thanked her and walked straight to take an empty bench on the right side and took his place silently.
"Sixty-three against Sixty-Two", announced Littleman. "The declaration of War has been approved in the House of Nobles. From now, according to Article 13 of Code of the Council, hereby, the Kingdom of Kottaipattinam attains the State of War, henceforth, the King's decision is final".
... to be continued ...
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Chaturmukha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Two - Locked within Oneself
A Message through Murder (part 3/3)
A Mouse that died for Cheese
The Council Hall turned into a circus as soon as the result was announced by Littleman. Objections were raised on the manner the opinon poll was conducted, few even registered their unhappiness towards the law. Vadhana looked at the armoured soldiers standing gaurd by her side. They instantly raised their long spear and tapped the floor. The metal meeting concrete sound alerted the quarrelling noblemen.
"As the Head of the House, I order my nobles to calm down and take their respective benches", Vadhana said in a firm voice. Once the hall was settled, she spoke "I order Yesodha Putran, Nobleman Kusha and Chief Rana to take the center and explain the conditions of war. I invite Princess Kanakavalli, General Kalai, Prince Shama to join them and share their inputs".
"A war cannot be fought by making an announcent", explained Putran. "Certain procedures govern the war too. The concerned parties in dispute will hold a meeting amoung themselves. Few wars are won across the table. If no advancement on agreement is made, they declare war on each other to exercise thier power on one another, where the date and ground will be collectively decided, keeping in mind several factors including the weather and distance of each party from the war ground. Silent treaties on violence against civilians, attacks on populated cities and treating the prisoners of war will be made on a mutual recognition agreement ".
Putran waited a bit to take questions, and when none were asked, he continued, "A state of war is a message to be vigilant. None will accept invitation or accomodate strangers and relatives from the enemy lands. Show no pity to anyone, in return avoid being tricked by sweet talkers. Communications will be restricted and informations shall pass only through the channel appointed by the King. Offenders will be punished under war crimes".
"A team of men will work on details and upon their advice the Chief will lead the army. The army, infantry and naval, will report directly to the Chief and not the King. The Chief's decision at the battle field rests ultimate".
"Here is the copy of the declaration of war signed by our state along with our allies. This will reach the Central Kingdom, and if no reply is received within a fortnight, then the war is open, cancelling all the existing treaties. The other option is receiving an invitation from the Central Kingdom to dicsuss. It must be understood that we have surpassed the negociation phase. It's either all demands are accepted or equivalent propositions are made to stop the war".
"The tough question and the difficult answer is victory. What happens to the conquered, taken over by the conqueror and its allies ? This matter will be dialogued directly by the King with the representatives of the alliances. The King's decision will be unappealable".
Vadhana congragulated Putran for his clairvoyant introduction. She asked him to form his team. "I take along with me, under the oath of secrecy, the sixty three noblemen who supported our cause, Her Majesty", replied Putran.
"Chief of Army, your team", she asked Rana.
"I just need one man who is present here, Her Royal Highness Queen Vadhana", requested Rana, his words put a broad smile on her face. Everyone in the hall looked at Sena, who had not yet taken his eyes off his target. Rana pointed his finger opposite to him, and everyone was suprised to see that it was directed at the King's clerk. Littleman stood at the center rolling his eyes.
"So it shall be ...", while Vadhana was talking there was huge commotion outside the hall. Sena looked at the enterance and slowly walked towards the hallway. He saw six men on horsebacks who were stopped by the palace gaurds. The man is front had a clean shining face riding a white horse, and five masked warriors with fancy gadgets were behind him on thier horses decorated fiercely with long black caparison, pointed flymasks and the manes dotted with shrapnels. Sena signaled the gaurds to allow them entry. The Shiny Face got down from the horse. He looked at his bodygaurds, and noticing them not moving, he walked up the stairs leading to the Council Hall. He walked past Sena without giving him a glance. He walked straight with authority without respecting any present inside the hall and crossed the team grouped before the throne. He stood directly in front of Vadhana and placed his left leg on the first step of the stairway to the throne.
"I, Baubo, the messenger of the Great Emperor, have come here to take the throne of Kottaipattinam", he announced without any greeting but with much pride and arrogance. "And that, I will hand Her over to the original hier when he is ready to accept. The assumed Queen can stay at the palace with all the royal respects provided with princely luxuries. My administration will align with the current political structure of this nation, except unwanted men", he paused and turned to look at Sena before continuing, "will find their designated place outside the throne room. From now on you will address me as your King, and I will make sure to drive you to glory". Baubo looked at the faces around him with a wide smile.
There was stillness in the hall due to absence of sound. Footstep echoed around the Hall. Sena walked slowly towards the visitor. Baubo turned to face approaching Sena to prove to the spectators that he did not feel threatened. Rana slowly moved and stood behind him. Sena stood close to Baubo, just a passage for ants to roam between their faces.
He leaned towards Baubo's shoulders and Rana did the same from behind. It looked as though the brothers had their chins on his shoulders.
"A mouse walked into a grand hall attracted by cheese", Sena whispered in his ears. "It approached the cheese slowly with great confident of gaining the whole piece for itself. Once it was fully inside, it realised that it was inside a trap. The farmer took the trapped mouse outside and liberated it in the fields to protect his grains from the rodent".
"But this mouse which has come to claim the throne did not walk in by itself, but was sent along with five other mice", Sena said, and Rana continued, "and it will not be liberated but pierced with death".
Rana entered a sharp blade into the spine of Baubo. He twisted the hand knife hard, to break whatever held his blade tightly. Baubo vomited blood. The brothers moved away from each other, allowing the messenger to turn and look at his stabber, his vision landed above at Vadhana. She repositioned her on the throne by stamping her left foot hard on the floor and putting the right leg over the other.
The pain forced Baubo to fall on his knees before the Queen. His hands stretched to either side searching for the affliction. Finally he fell face down before the throne with his hands to his sides as though swiming in his own blood.
Vadhana lifted her head and saw her war wingers standing in two diagonal lines in front of her - Rana, Kacha, Putran to her left and Sena, Kanakavalli and Shama to her right. Behind them were the sixty three noblemen standing in three semi circular rows. At the center was the Littleman and before him was the messenger of the Emperor taking his last bow.
"We have officially invited ourselves to war", she declared with pride.
... to be continued ...
-
Chaturmukha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Two - Locked within Oneself
The Bad, The Worse, The Worst (part 1/2)
Rana, accompanied by his brother, his friend, the war strategist, the prince of Shambala, Nobleman and Littleman, entered the throne room of Central Kingdom.
They passed through a long line of soldiers dressed completely in standardised military uniforms holding melee and ranged combat weapons - swords & spears. Several were holdng war shields - round, oval, door, heater, tear drop and kite. The roof top was surrounded by archers - target shooters and paraplegic bowmen. Inbetween the archers were the seige weapons. The upper corridor was lined with double cannons, two soldiers stood beside infront of a huge pile of cannonball. Horsemen stood gaurd around the inner circumfrence of the huge wall of the fortified palace - mounted archers, spear throwers and samurai swordsmen. Below the main entrance were several masked warriors wearing heavy armours and holding different and strange weapons - bowie knife, arbalest, chained mace, ring sword, war flail, bladed staff, cutlass, battle axe, war hammer, crossbow, billhook, halberd, pikes and poleaxe.
The combat traits of the Emperor demonstrasted to the visitors that he was truely the Master of War.
The ceiling of the Throne room was high, as though the sky was immediately above it, supported by huge pillars. The floor was decorated with floral carpets, the colors attractive inside the white hall. A long set of stairs descended from the throne. On both sides, another flight of stairs rose upto the the corridor leading to the King's Chamber, the Emperor will make his entry through one in either way. Along the stairways to the throne, at every five steps there were few chairs arranged on both sides. The bottom was bordered with row of chairs. Huge wall windows circled the throne room allowing natural light to brighten up the surrounding. Inbetween the apertures, several huge painting on canvas were hung. The floor of the ceiling was painted with scenes depicting the rise of the Emperor - his birth, training, kingliness, valiance, admiration and administration.
Rana and his men walked the long pathway. They gracefull greeted their allies who were occupying the left side, and wished the servants of the sovereign and war profiteers crowding on the other side. At the end of their walk, they met with King Souruban and King Gauthama. After taking their blessing, Rana stood beside them with his team.
Just below the throne, Veera Mahendran and Sengodagan were seated along with other officials, administrators and ministers of Central Kingdom. Sena stared at Veera while Sengodagan exchanged short glances with Rana. After a while Sengodagan turned his face away permanently, and Veera descended the stairs and walked towards Sena.
"Provocations, insults and dominant cadences are normal during such suituations, don't over react, could land us into trouble of being found guilty of extortion", Putran whispered to Sena.
"You there, little man, what are you called", Veera yelled at Littleman while he still had few more steps to climb down. Littleman found it hard to swallow his saliva. Veera stood before the group and looking down at Littleman, he asked again, "So what are you called". Littleman gulped again and few letters escaped his mouth, "K . l l . n". "What ?", demanded Veera. Littleman tried again, but the result was the same.
"He goes by the name Agastya, and it would be Master Agastya for you", replied Sena calmly but firmly. Littleman looked up to Sena.
"Agastya ?", Veera Mahendran mocked the group with his voice while making a hand gesture by pushing his palm from his hip.
"Master Agastya", Rana said.
Veera Mahindran put up a funny face and one half of the hall errupted with laughter. Sengodagan sat without showing any remorse.
"Heard there is a dark beauty with you, hope to see her anywhere else than at battle field. Such a waste of beauty, prettiness should not be taken to war but to bed. Kottaipattinam men do not know how to treat their ladies, Kallingapuri is always open for these distressed women", he told Sena.
"Watch where you speak young man", growled King Gauthama. "You don't know whose sword will give a reply".
"Stay calm Oldman. I sincerely wish you live to see the end of war. Your anger is not helping that wish of mine", Veera replied rudely. King Soruban took a step forward, but King Gauthama stopped him.
"And we will be victorious liberating this world from the unfaithful", spoke Sengodagan for the first time, "when I crush the cowards".
"Convincing the heart with the spirit of something your mind knows is a lie, is called confusion", Rana spoke directly to Sengodagan. Segodagan disregarded his comment even though it planted a positive seed of thought.
"Rana", Veera said with a broad smile. "Rana, Rana. My friend. My Chief. How have you been ? Appologies to have ignored you, could not recognise you amoung this group of cowards, you all look alike".
"And your betterment lies over the next words you utter", Rana warned.
"My blade seeks to me every single day to meet your throat", Veera said.
"And my tiny friend here is waiting to talk to your tongue from the time you came down those stairs", Rana replied tapping his hand knife tucked to his side.
Veera laughed the words of Rana. "And where is my bridegroom Vadhana Rishikodagan. Hoped to see her bend before the Emperor".
Rana took his knife out, but Sena held his fist tight until Rana relaxed. Veera stood staring at Rana, and the very moment the herald announced the arrival of Vettaiyan admist deafening clatter of kettledrums and taratantara.
Vettaiyan quickly descended the stair. He stopped and looked sharply at everyone present in the room. He took the end of his hair tied together like a tail and chewed its tip. He climbed towards his throne. Midway he stopped and said "No boardgames". After taking couple more steps, "Opposing will loose every inch of possessed land". Standing over a flat surface in the series, he declared "Once an Emperor will always be an Emperor". He climbed quickly the rest of the steps and sat on his throne in a single gesticulation - turning, sitting, putting the left leg over the right leg, and immediately reversing the leg's positions.
"If this was your final stand, why send an invite and waste time", Nobleman said.
Vettaiyan stared at Nobleman and spoke, "To provide a final opputunity to realise madness", directly looking at the brothers. The Nobleman was about to speak, when Putran held him back by pulling his hand.
"How impolite of the Queen of Kottaipattinam to be absent, but to have sent a bunch of clowns to perform before the Emperor", he said. "Or, is she scared of being taken into custody in connection with the brutal murder of the Emperor's messenger ?", he added with a smile.
"Her Majesty does not wish to dialogue with rogues, thus she found fit for the clowns to adress a buffoon", said Rana. His reply raised loud murmurs inside the hall. Vettaiyan stood up ferociously.
"Arrest them both", ordered Vettiayan furiously.
"This could ignite an extreme civil unrest and our supporters may not tolerate such a breach of trust", Narendhira Verman, the minister of the Emperor whispered in his ears.
"I promise in such a circumstance my people will not be made to suffer, and for supporters, it is me who is supporting them", he replied to his minister with a plesant smile.
"Pull them away, by force if needed", saying so he descended the stairway and mounted the steps that led to the corridor and disappeared behind the wall.
... to be continued ...
-
Chaturmukha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Two - Locked within Oneself
The Bad, The Worse, The Worst (part 2/2)
The brothers were brought into a medium-large room. They had crossed several corridors, taken many steps, walked through several locked doors before entering the private quarters of the Emperor. The soldiers unchained and left them standing at the center of the solar.
Above the fire place, on the wall in front of them was a painting potraying a well built, long bearded, naked man seated on a rock exhibiting his quadriceps while holding a shield in his left hand and a trident in his right displaying his biceps. A war horn crowned his head.
Arch pillars surrounded the area and drapes hung from the ceiling to the floor masking the view beyond. The floor was decorated with polished marble mosaics.
Vettaiyan entered the space from behind one of the curtains. He walked briskly towards the brothers and greeted them with a smile. The brothers put up an unyielding face. The blinds were raised exposing a display of several objects. The items were neatly arranged inside a elevated transparent containers. Rana looked scandalized.
"Everything I control", Vettiayan announced with a deeper voice, gazing at Rana.
"I am the owner of these prestigious collections which have stood the Tests of Time and stand for the Testimony of Creation". Vettaiyan moved closer to a display and seeing the brothers still at the center, he invited them to join him with the notoriety of this hand gesture.
"I can bend the truth however I wish, by finely telling a relevant tale to the one's who refuse to believe what they could not see". Pointing at the Mukhutti, he spoke those words that startled Rana, "When the one on the Lighthouse is proven fake, my story about this Jewel of Kali belonging to a witch who used it's power to burn lands making them inutile for the settlers to settle, will become veracity".
He moved to the next display and the brothers followed him, "These fangs, according to my imagination, belonged to a saint who turned thristy at night and sucked blood from the first born".
"The red silk embroidery which actually is the Lineage of the Creator, will be presented as the members of Afterlife, who were cruel and took bribes to let a soul pass through. I will install a Fear even after Death", Vettaiyan laughed viciously.
The sight of all the treasures that Rana had toiled to collect, now sitting at Vettaiyan's solar, seemed to discompose him.
Vettaiyan stood before a tiny white crystal cylinder placed over an oval platform. "A real wonder !", he exclaimed generously, "first of the one hundred and eight, and it crept into the palms of my hands". He pointed at the dark smoke cluster lingering inside the crystal cylinder. "White is the presence of all colors, while black is the absence of any color. The beauty is to see it projecting the spectrum of color under the influence of the spectrum of light. At dawn, exposing the crytal to the luminous field spread by the rising star, permits it to cast a multi-colored shadow of the Devine Dance. A pure beauty ! The containment of the emptiness and fullness within the same space, the origin of all creations that invoked ideas through which inventions happened. How I will introduce this magnificence to the benighted will be a charm", Vettaiyan smiled wickedly.
Suddenly, Vettaiyan started going in circle around them talking rapidly, "the tunic will become the first painting on cloth ; the bayonet slayed the monster ; the 'footmark petros' is a deformed mud sediment ; the idols belong to black magic ; and with these items, I will currupt the thoughts of the thinkers ; I will poison the minds of the sage, I will cringe the innocent, I will drain the strength of the valliant and then, make them fight each other the battle they are not destined for ; and in thier self-slaughter, their soul will not leave this world, they will roam around my feet and rebirth will become a curse thereafter", and all of sudden Vettiayan turned calm and composed talking in a deeper voice, "Everything I control".
Vettiayan stopped and took few steps backwards to face Sena. "Dhavoma was the sixty-fourth Alwars". Sena blinked. "Your Father offered it to her, she refused but she fell for the dagger. The Alwars who served your Father were rogues, thugs and thieves dressed in saintly clothes. He paused and looking directly at Sena's eyes he said, "Sabottage to murder, I ordered. And by this time you would have identified my copper bracelet, the kara that gave you the chilness at the Festival. The big brother of Opera helped us to identify rebels and Mari-Maa's target was me", he stared at Sena giving him time to realise how Vettaiyan had been using him for years.
"I was aware of a rat in my closet, Mari-Maa was the smoke to flush it out. You cracked the case and also knew who made such a great maneuver against me. And for some reason you hid it in your report, that's when I decided to bring down all hope and used you to assassinate the Leader of the House".
Sena looked startled. "The contract was to take the loot, and I was sure you would use explosives to create diversion. But you were clever to utilize sound bombs. Still the mission was a sucess, as the relegious leader, the Hope of the House was paralysed permanantly after the explosion". Vettiayan again took his deeper voice and said "Everything I control".
"Faith symbol is friendship and Hope is what you give to the loved ones. I made both to fall to their knees. I am not threatening nor bargaining, but asking you to understand. We three are the same - manipulators". Pointing at Rana he said, "You handled to eliminate everything out of your way by pledging faithfulness to seek your vengence". At Sena he said, "And you intrigued with others taking advantage over their hopefulness". He paused and then said with a smile, "I was just a puppeteer".
"We three are pullers of strings, and there was never a droplet of goodness in our actions, only bad or worse or worst. We should continue to be what we are, especially, for the benefit of everyone", he winked at the brothers.
"We are not like you, for that my Father should have killed you when he first saw you, rather than giving you his smile", Sena said.
"We are not like you !", Vettaiyan immitated Sena, "Even this war is manipulated, to wipe out our ugliness. Your Father not only gave me his smile, he gifted me with the Clown", Vettaiyan laughed immorally.
"'Everything I control' wiseness has blinded you about the End, it's not who will fall but defintely only one will stand. The world will be reborn, without your presence", declared Rana.
"And that world will be a witness of the fall of Two Birds with one Stone", he pointed to the rear end of the room, where a twin arrow sat aimed at the brothers, the tip of the right one blinked red and the other flickered blue.
"I could kill you both now, or, allow you to rot in my dungeons, but sometimes being an Emperor I have to think about whom shall I rule upon. I don't wish to change this world into a graveyard due to an uprising over your demise by my hands. No, not this way and not today", Vettiayan spoke haughtily.
"Then let's end, to see the fall", challenged Sena.
"Either way, I will destroy this world, so, let me grant that wish of yours", Vettaiyan looked at the brothers by swiftly moving his eyes from left to right. Then, he stromed out of the solar.
Vettiayan surprised all by entering from a door behind the throne room. He walked briskly and came to an halt at the center.
"Throne is mine, but I have to earn her again". Before disapperaing through the main enterance, Vettaiyan announced with a smile, "The World is a open bar, let's have some war".
... to be continued ...
-
Chaturmukha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Three - War of Karmegha
Sametime, Somewhere (part 1/2)
Sequence I - Somewhere on an openspace in the Central Lands ...
Karmegha, the battlefield, was recomended to the kingdoms for exercising their power over each other by the group of non-initiators and mutual deciders hailing from five kingdoms, who were a team of sign astrologers, date predictor, land surveyors and weather forecasters. They were surrounded by various representatives of states and kingdoms, Minister Narendhira Verman and Architect Vitara participated on behalf of Vettaiyan and Nobleman Kusha with Prince Shama represented the allied forces.
Karmegha was a legendary battlefield suituated in the heart of the Central Kingdom, a plain land whose size stands equivalent to an independent kingdom. Karmegha was a mysterious warfield that none could define it's phenomenon - as the days of war passed on it's ground, the sky above gradually darkens and on the undetermined final day, just before the end, it would rain. This peculiar occurence had been registered during several battles that were fought at Karmegha. The soldier's rage increases when darkness engulfs the battle field gradually, while they strike their swords as though it could be thier winning wallop.
Objections were raised over the choice made, the prime highlight was on the Fort Ayan suituated across Karmegha which was still inside the firing range. It was argued that the cannon called Vettai could intercept the arc area and sweep out the battling forces.
Counter arguments favouring Karmegha were placed, stating it to be the only battlefied which can accommodate Emperor's army and the allied forces. Verman pointed that the citadel Ayan was a defensive fortress shielding the Capital City and assured that it will engage only to avoid enemy attacks on the Palace. But he was tight lipped over the enquiries about mishaps. Nobleman nodded his head in acceptance with a tiny smile flashing around the corner of his lips and the Minister acknowledged him.
The day and time was fixed after hearing to the tentative arrival dates of the allied forces battalions, followed by a briefing on regulations, just for the records :
- victory by death of a leader or capture of the capital shall announce the result ;
- children soldiers are forbidden, women warriors dead or alive should be treated justly ;
- commencement every day at dawn and halt at sunset, until a vanquer emerges ;
- after sunset the no-strike pledge puts the soldiers as civils on the battlefield collecting their fallen brothers ;
- the dead are no more enemies, thus, shall be respected ;
- interdiction of attack on ememy camps during night, including sabottaging the ailments ;
- physicians gain acess cross camps without curtailment ;
- settlements should not be disturbed, each kingdom takes measures to disallocate them ;
- captured will be handled under the legislation governing the treatment of prisoners ;
- the vanquer can exercise extreme measures to bring the captured lands under their control.
"Above are verbal treaties, none will be supervised, for that, there shall be no governance over them. Remember, this is not a conquest or an invasion, this is pure warfare. Thought about the victim being one of the own, born with same blood and flesh, could add meaning to the actions", said an elderly man from the group.
Once the accord was reached, the announcement of date and place was disptached to the warring kingdoms. The war was now officially on.
Sequence II - Somewhere in a room at Central Palace
"People often put wrong questions, but get starled by the erroneous answer ; imprecise questions receives inexact answers", Vettiayan told Veera Mahendran, "Never it was about whom you trust, but with what you trust them with".
"When you made the 'bending' comment at the Grand Hall, I noticed an annoyance in Sengodagan's face. I made my presence to avoid a clash", Vettiayan smiled, and then continued, "Control of tongue should teach you not what to talk, but where to utter. Remember, Sengodagan seeks revenge. He will kill the brothers when the need arises". Vettaiyan spoke in a serious tone to make sure Veera realised the importance of his words, "but he will never go against his sister. The result of war will give him the throne of Kottaipattinam revoking your dream of uniting the two kingdoms which was indeed your father's wish", Vettaiyan stopped talking and stared at Veera who was looking at him without blinking an eye.
"To keep Sengodagan lying at our feet, we have to eliminate his sister by elegantly painting her blood onto the hands of the brothers", Vettaiyan said firmly.
"But the war is yet to start, we cannot launch an attack any moment soon", questioned Veera.
"Yes, war is yet to start, but the fight never ended", Vettaiyan smiled at Veera who nodded his head in agreement.
Veera crossed The General at the enterance, the two men greeted each other by crossing their arms over their shoulders. Veera walked outside and saw Sengodagan standing behind his horse. "My friend, I need you to leave immediately and supervise the shipment of weapons. I can only trust such a reponsible job upon a person whom I redeem greater than my life". Sengodagan was moved by Veera's confidence on him and appreciated the words coming from the prince of an enemy state.
"What is it with your mask, ain't you hot inside", asked Vettaiyan to his General who stood straight before his Emperor without moving. "They will first try to take Narukukana", Vettaiyan spoke without looking at The General, "Alert Adhi. Take your men. Position them around the perimeter of the Pirate Village but don't enter, you will face the arrogence of Adhi. Gaurd the village by taking a defensive stand with archers and long swordsman".
The General accepted the orders of the Emperor. "Place the Reds around the Palace, we need more vigilance. Send the Whites to Narukukana, you need more eyes", Vettaiyan thought for a while and added, "Send the four Blacks to the route, assure a kingdom to the one who takes a target".
When The General was at the door he heard the Emperor's voice, "The art of victory is to lay behind the enemy and pull him when he is so close to the line of victory".
... to be continued ...
-
Chaturmukha Part 3 - mRdayopaliptaM
Chapter Three - War of Karmegha
Sametime, Somewhere (part 2/2)
Sequence III - Somewhere in a cottage at the south of Central Kingdom ...
"Karmegha ?", wondered Rana, "but Ayan stands across that battlefield".
"That's the exact reason why Karmegha would be chosen", Sena infered watching the scenary outside the window. Rana looked at Putran who raised his eyebrows and shoulders at the same time.
"Apart from such shocks, we have to make sure to get back our bodies to Kottaipattinam alive", Sena announced to the three men present in the room with him. Rana again looked at Putran.
"We are allowed to stay here until the announcement over the battlefield", said Putran. "Then we will be chased or captured as outlaws". Kacha gulped.
"The Emperor will send out his best after us", Sena spoke calmly, "He will make sure atleast one of us won't leave his hunting grounds".
"But why ?", Kacha asked, "Whether we are alive or not, this war will happen".
"Brains are powerful than muscles", Sena turned and replied Kacha. With a gentle hand gesture he requested him to join him by the window. Without raising his hand, he told him "There, between the intersection of the walls". Kacha looked, but failed to notice anything. "Keep watching until the natural site registers inside you, then it will expose the image that is not part of the scene", Sena advised Kacha. After a moment of immense curiosity and constant staring, an image of a human form standing in the middle behind the intersection became visible to Kacha. His mouth opened naturally.
"We will handle ourselves as and when a threat arises. And the immediate urgence is on taking over Narukukana", Sena informed the group and tapped the shoulders of Kacha who was still gazing out of the window.
"Waterways are the only route for the three Kingdom's battalions to reach Central Kingdom", Putran said, "The Emperor will not use his fleet anytime sooner. He will operate them once the battle begins and create a forntier wall of ships around his land - to stop supplies of allied forces from reaching the lands if the war runs longer than planned", Putran looked at the faces before him before continuing, "and to block every escape route of the retreating army, stating that 'if you come to war on my lands, you will be burined under her warmth'. In the meantime, he will use the pirates to affiliate damage on our crew, draining their confidence and physically weakening them even before they step on his land".
"We will face strenuous opposition at Narukukana. By now, the place would have been fortified. A defensive stance with archers and long swordsmen", Sena diagnosed.
"So, how are we going to crack the Emperor's wall of defense at the Pirate village", asked Kacha.
"By Creating a distraction", Sena replied, "The art of victory is to blind the enemy with his own confidence and once he is visionless, we strike him with our light of victory".
Sequence IV - Somewhere around the Central Kingdom ...
A pair of eyes were watching the proceedings at the openspace hiding behind the bushes. They followed Verman and Vitara when they stood up and moved away from the crowd. The Kingsmen rejoined the group after a brief discussion. At the end of the convention, the Minister and the Architect walked beside one another, before parting ways. The watching man, hidden inside the bush, followed Verman discreetly. When Vitara crossed the bend of the first lane, a silhouette walked out of a closed shop and replaced Vitara's shadow.
Medicine man Kreesnama Muni was working in his laboratory. He was holding a beaker in his hand, inside which a dark and thick liquid was dancing violently. After few analysis, he poured the solution on the floor. A hound appeared from the dark corners of the room and cleaned the solution from the ground. After feeding three more hounds, Vaithiyar walked of his lab. The leaves of the tree beside the window of the lab frisked briskly when a man silently descended and disappeared into the thick jungle.
The human form hiding in the shadow of a wall, keenly looked at Sena looking at his direction. He did not move when Kacha joined Sena by the window. After a brief moment, the men from Kottaipatinam left the cottage and walked towards the town center. After confirming that the cottage was empty, the incognito slipped away.
The General walked back and forth on the corridor. Two masked men approached him quickly. Listening to them, The General rushed inside his room. A while later, he reappeared in warrior armour and started proceeding towards King's Chamber. Few instances later, he arrived at the center of the Grand Garden just after the princes of Kottaipattinam and Kallingapuri had left. His team dressed for a fight joined him on their horses, one with the splatter mask was holding the halter of The General's horse. They all rode towards the barracks to the east of the Palace urgently. A gardener silently crawled out from under the stairways and moved cautiously over the lawn. Once he reached the area crowded with waged workers, he lifted a water hose from the ground and irrigated the plants around the palace garden.
Sometime later, Somewhere ...
Four messengers took clippers, a fast multiple-masted sailing ship, to Kalingapuri, Kottaipattinam, Karimedai and Katrupuzha with the scroll proclaming the war. The fifth messenger reached the Vettaiyan Palace.
The team from Kottaipattinam boarded the stagecoach to reach their destination.
Sengodagan took a brig, the two-masted sailing vessel, to Kalingapuri. Veera Mahendran held a secret meeting inside the captain's cabin on his cruiser, a lightly armoured battleship .
Five men - the watching man, the silhouette, the tree man, the incognito and the gardener - stood before an anonymous artist who had started working on an empty canvas. He listened to the reports given by these spies and dismissed four out of five of them. He turned to reveal his cold eyes above the neckerchief covering his face to the last agent standing before him. The spy heard his boss speaking through the mask, "Follow close, don't leave a trace, and report back". When the young man was about to leave, his master said "The art of victory is to draw your enemy towards an imaginary victory line and before he realises, unleash the suprise on him while standing on the right line of victory".
... to be continued ...