At the close of the tale, those present bowed with deep devotion, receiving the grace that flowed from their reverence. By the power of their worship, the Bhillas—along with their sons and wives—were blessed. Even the poor and the blind, O best of the twice-born, enjoyed pleasures as they wished, their lives transformed by the king’s instruction. Indeed, the virtuous one was fulfilled, just as the merchant had been before. The king of Manipur, Chandracuda, was famed far and wide for his greatness. Meanwhile, in Ratnapura, there lived a virtuous merchant, lord of a hundred thousand, whose reputation was likewise illustrious. One day, this merchant observed crowds of people delighting in the various villages. He heard the teachings of the Vedas, as well as gatherings filled with singing and instrumental music. Intrigued, he said, “Let us rest here. I see a boat and am curious.” Crossing over the riverbank, he watched those skilled in wrestling games display their strength and prowess. Once he and his ministers had crossed, he respectfully approached the people and asked, “What is happening here, O honorable ones, revered by all?” The people explained that together with his relatives, the king, compassionate toward his subjects, was being honored. They told him, “One who desires wealth obtains riches; one who desires a son obtains an excellent child. By worshiping the truthful gods, a man attains all his desires.” Hearing this, the merchant bowed down with reverence and spoke his wish to the assembly: “By your favor, may I obtain a son or a daughter.” The assembly replied, “May the fulfillment of your desire be yours.” Filled with hope, the virtuous merchant returned to his home, contemplating Hari in his heart. He performed various auspicious rites as appropriate. His wife, Līlāvatī, having bathed after her period, lovingly served her husband. In time, a daughter was born to them, her eyes lotus-like and restless, bringing joy to all their relatives. The merchant summoned learned Brāhmaṇas and had auspicious rites performed for the newborn. In the house of the moon, the girl—named Kalāvatī—grew up. When she reached ten years of age, she matured and began her menstruation. Elsewhere, in the city of Kāñcanapura, there lived a renowned merchant named Śaṅkhapati. The sage chose him as a suitable husband for his daughter. Amidst the sounds of Vedic chants and musical instruments, the sage gave his daughter away according to proper rites, his heart filled with great joy, wishing her auspiciousness. The sage regarded Śaṅkhapati as a son, and the wise Śaṅkhapati regarded the sage as a father. Afterward, forgetting the troubles of the past, Śaṅkhapati, along with his brother-in-law, set out once again for trade. The Sūta narrated: Then the sage gathered various jewels, arranged the ships, and set out from one country to another. Engaged in buying and selling, he stayed there for a long time, his mind steadfast. But then, as a result of karma, the merchant soon experienced distress. One night, while all were asleep, thieves stole great wealth. After performing his morning duties, the merchant entered the assembly and spoke: “Listen, O lord of the earth. All the thieves have escaped; we do not know, O king.” The king, his eyes reddened with anger, ordered, “You all come here at once. Otherwise, I will kill you along with your followers,” he commanded the messengers.