Thus, in her own words, Ilā recounted her extraordinary journey. “In order to leave my former life behind, I took the form of a deer and entered the sacred Umā forest. You, too, have entered this place. Long ago, Maheśvara himself declared: ‘Whoever, out of ignorance, enters here will obtain womanhood.’ That is why you have become a woman—do not grieve. Even the wise cannot comprehend the mysterious workings of destiny.” Hearing the yakṣiṇī’s words, the one who had entered the forest—still mounted on his horse—was overcome with distress. Seeing his sorrow, the yakṣiṇī comforted him again, saying, “Since womanhood has arisen, you must not seek to regain your former manhood. Instead, learn the arts appropriate for women: the grace of dance and song, the art of adornment, feminine charm and play, and all the duties that belong to women.” Having come to terms with her new circumstances, Ilā spoke to the yakṣiṇī, seeking guidance: “Who is to be my husband? What should I do now? How can I regain my manhood? Please tell me, O auspicious one, for I am afflicted with sorrow. Truly, there is no greater good than relieving the suffering of those in distress.” The yakṣiṇī replied, “To the east of this forest, Budha, the son of Soma, maintains his āśrama. He often visits his father, Soma, the Moon, traveling along this very path. When Budha, peaceful and wise, comes this way, reveal yourself to him. Upon seeing him, O fortunate one, you will obtain all your desires.” With these words of comfort, the yakṣiṇī vanished. She informed the yakṣa of all that had transpired, and the yakṣa, too, was filled with happiness. Meanwhile, Ilā’s army remained nearby, settled comfortably, while Ilā herself dwelled in the Umā forest, singing and dancing with newfound grace. She acted as a woman would, reflecting on the course of her actions. It was during one of her dances that Budha, wise and radiant, saw her as he was on his way to visit his father. Upon seeing Ilā, Budha left his path and approached her, speaking gently: “Be my wife, be at ease, and be dear to all.” Ilā, with devotion, welcomed Budha’s words and acted accordingly. Remembering the yakṣiṇī’s advice, she was pleased and content. Budha, delighted by her affection, brought Ilā to his splendid abode, where she served him with all her heart, pleasing her husband in every way. After much time had passed, Budha, satisfied and joyful, spoke to his beloved: “What shall I give you, gentle one? Tell me what is dearest to your heart.” At that moment, Ilā replied, “Grant me a son, O Budha, son of Soma, beloved and dear.” Budha answered, “This is certain, arising from my power and love. You shall have a son, renowned among kṣatriyas. He will be the maker of the Soma lineage, glorious, radiant like the sun, wise as Bṛhaspati, and patient as the earth. In valor he will be like Hari, and in wrath, like the consuming fire of sacrifice.” When that great-souled son of Budha was born, cries of victory resounded everywhere, even in the realms of the gods. The lords of the gods assembled there to witness the birth, and I, too, came, filled with joy. As soon as the child was born, he let out a powerful cry. Because of this, all the assembled sages and gods declared, “Since his cry was great, let him be called Pururavas.” Thus, with satisfied hearts, they named him. Budha instructed his virtuous son in the knowledge of kingship and gave him the Dhanurveda, the science of archery, along with its applications. Pururavas grew swiftly, like the waxing moon. Observing his mother’s lingering sorrow, the wise and humble son bowed before Ilā and inquired, “O mother, Budha is my father and your beloved husband. I am your dutiful son—why, then, do you still experience mental anguish?” Ilā replied, “Truly, Budha is my husband, and you, my son, are a treasure of virtues. I have no worries caused by husband or son. Yet, remembering some former sorrow, I find my mind returning to it again and again, O great-hearted one.” “Mother, tell me about that very first thing of mine,” Pururavas gently urged. Ilā hesitated, saying, “How can I speak of such a secret matter? Still, my son, I will tell you. For parents drowning in the ocean of sorrow, a son is truly the supreme raft.” Hearing her words, the humble Pururavas fell at her feet and implored, “Speak, mother, just as it is.” Ilā then told Pururavas all: her birth in the Ikṣvāku lineage, her name, her attainment of the kingdom, and her beloved sons. She spoke of the family priest Vasiṣṭha, her dear husband, her royal position, her departure to the forest, and the support of her ministers and priest. She recounted being sent from the city, her fondness for hunting, her journey to the caves of the Himalayas, and her stay in the house of the lord of the Yakṣas. She described entering the grove of Umā, her complete transformation into womanhood, and the decree of Maheśvara forbidding any man’s entry there. She told of the words of the yakṣiṇī, the granting of a boon, the coming of Budha, the joy at the birth of her son, and everything else in detail. When she finished her tale, Pururavas asked his mother, “What shall I do? By doing what will I attain merit?” He added, “If you are satisfied with this, O mother, let it be enough. But if there is anything else on your mind, command me in that as well.