Chapter FifteenThe Singhalese filed into their boats, with a warm wind from the north ready to ease them toward their island of Ceylon.
'You will be safe now,' Melcorka said. 'You are nearly home. Just keep clear of Thiruzha raiding parties in future.' She raised her voice and stamped her feet on the ground. 'Come, Bradan, we have work to do.'
'Are you sure you must leave us?' Chaturi asked. 'You are welcome to stay with us as long as you like.'
'Thank you, Chaturi.' Bradan salaamed. 'I am not yet ready to settle down, and Melcorka has a mission to fulfil.'
'In times of war, the enemies of our enemies are our friends,' Melcorka said. 'We are going into the Chola Empire.'
'They are a great people,' Chaturi said. 'They might welcome you, or they might kill you.'
Melcorka nodded. 'That
