The Brahmin, seated with dignity, addressed the king, saying, “I shall recount the great narrative, a collection of ancient tales.” With his mind firmly established in Shiva, he began, “The delightful city of Varanasi is where Mahesha, Lord Shiva, abides. In this sacred city, people of all four castes dwell, and its king wears a crown of glory. His son, Vajramukuta, is beloved by the ministers and their sons. Among them, the minister’s son Buddhidaksha is renowned for his wisdom and skill. One day, Buddhidaksha beheld a charming forest, alive with animals and birds. Within this forest was a divine and delightful lake, echoing with the cries of many birds. When Vajramukuta and Buddhidaksha arrived there, the two heroes were filled with supreme joy. In this place, Padmavati, the esteemed daughter of Dantavaktra, was playing delightful games with her companions in the midst of the lake. Vajramukuta beheld Padmavati, a maiden of equal beauty and virtue. Awakened, Vajramukuta prayed, ‘Protect me, Shiva Shankara.’ Padmavati took a lotus flower from his head and placed it at her ears, then took the flower again and placed it within her heart. Later, Vajramukuta, together with his father, journeyed to the forest of the mountain for pilgrimage. Yet, he was overwhelmed by great mental anguish and fell into delusion. Meditating on young Padmavati, he undertook a vow of silence. People everywhere lamented, saying, ‘What condition has the prince come to?’ Buddhidaksha spoke to Vajramukuta, “O king, speak the truth.” Hearing this, Buddhidaksha laughed and addressed the king, “She is the daughter of Dantavaktra, the king of Karnata. Recognizing you by the sign of the flower, I will bring you to her presence. Give the order, O king; I will go to Karnata. I will go—there is no doubt—if you wish your son to live.” Mounted on horses, they swiftly traveled to the city of Dantavaktra. Buddhidaksha, wise as ever, gave much wealth to an old woman. In the morning, she went to the royal palace. Reaching Padmavati in private, she delivered Buddhidaksha’s message: “A handsome man, seen for your sake, has come here.” Padmavati, angry, spoke while her fingers were moist with sandalwood. Touching her cheeks with her fingers, she went home. Meanwhile, Buddhidaksha spoke to his sorrowful friend, “Listen, friend, abandon your grief. For your sake, my chest was struck—when will you become my friend? At the end of my menstruation, O friend, I kissed your face.” At the end of three days, the old woman, now aged, reported all this to Padmavati. “Unite with him today, O lovely-hipped one, and make your life fruitful.” Expelled through the window door, she was struck on her back and below. Pleased and clever, Mitra said, “Listen, O friend! Arrive at midnight and enjoy me, who am overcome with desire.” The great lover went swiftly and delighted the woman.