Thus, the king was awakened by the brāhmaṇa, roused from his rest in this manner. Startled and amazed, the king rose quickly and turned his thoughts to the eternal Brahman, reflecting deeply. At that moment, the chief minister addressed him, saying, “O brāhmaṇa, bring those two men here and question them properly, O king.” Following this counsel, the king had the virtuous man brought before him and questioned him, seeking only the truth. The virtuous man replied humbly, “O great king, we both live by honest commerce, trading for our livelihood. We come to your city to sell or buy gems and pearls. Who among men does not face misfortune when fate turns against them? We are not thieves, O king; please judge the truth for yourself.” Hearing these words, the king was convinced of their innocence. He ordered the strong bonds to be cut and thus freed Lomaśa. In the city, Lomaśa was honored with fine garments, ornaments, and vehicles, a mark of respect for his virtue. Yet, the memory lingered of the many sufferings endured in prison. Moved by the virtuous man’s words, the king called for his treasurer. Together with his brother-in-law, the virtuous man performed worship with songs, musical instruments, and auspicious rites in honor of Lord Satyanarayana, who is known to grant visible results even in the age of Kali. Later, the virtuous man gave instructions, saying, “Quickly send the boats.” But when asked about his wealth, he replied, “O master, I have no wealth; only leaves and such things fill my stores.” The ascetic who stood by simply said, “So be it,” and spoke these words at once. But when the boats were checked, there was no wealth to be found. The virtuous man became anxious, his mind greatly distressed, as if struck by a thunderbolt. Overcome by faintness and worry, he lamented again and again. In his despair, he removed the cloth from his neck and bowed to the ascetic, saying, “O lord of gods, or whoever you are, I do not know your true power.” The ascetic replied, “Abandon such foolishness, O virtuous one; do not speak vain words.” Still, the virtuous man could not comprehend the great wealth that was truly his. It was then remembered that when King Candracūḍa had worshipped Satyanarayana, he had forgotten to ask for what was needed, and now he suffered in vain. “Neglecting him, O misguided one, how can you attain what is right?” the ascetic said. Suddenly, the virtuous man saw the ascetic for who he truly was—Satyanarayana himself—and, his voice faltering, he offered praise: “You, who are the truth of the universe, I bow to you, the embodiment of truth. Those whose minds are deluded by your maya fail to recognize their own auspiciousness. I am foolish, blinded by pride in wealth, my vision clouded by intoxication. Forgive my wickedness, O abode of austerity, O Hari, I bow to you.” Having thus praised the Lord, the virtuous man placed laksha coins before his priest in gratitude. Pleased, Narayana spoke, “May your wishes be fulfilled. In the end, you shall attain my presence and rejoice with me.” With these words, Vishnu disappeared from sight, and the virtuous one returned to his hermitage. As he neared the city, he quickly sent word to the hermitage. The virtuous man, accompanied by his son-in-law, having accomplished his purpose, at last arrived home. His wife entrusted the burden of worship to their daughter and herself went to the edge of the boat. But Kalavati, the daughter, disregarded the grace bestowed upon them and hurried away.