Once more, Tulasi saw Vasantaka moving back and forth, and as she regained her awareness, she found herself lamenting again and again over her situation. Meanwhile, Shankhachuda, the great yogi who was a delight to the Jaigishavyas, was steadfast in his spiritual practice, always reciting the protective hymn—most auspicious among all auspicious things. By the command of Brahma himself, Shankhachuda too arrived at the sacred place of Badari. He was endowed with the vigor and freshness of youth, radiant and captivating like Kamadeva, the god of love. His complexion shone with the pale brilliance of white champaka flowers, and he was adorned with dazzling jeweled ornaments. Seated in a celestial chariot made from the finest gems, he was utterly charming. He wore garlands woven from fragrant parijata blossoms and his smile was beautiful and enchanting. As he drew near, Tulasi saw him and, overcome with bashfulness, quickly covered her face with her garment. Her head lowered in embarrassment at their new union, she became shy, yet she could not help but gaze at him, continually drinking in the lotus-like beauty of his face with her eyes. Reclining upon a luxurious bed of flowers and sandalwood, clothed in the finest garments, she was a vision of grace. Her form was exquisite—her hips full and firm, her breasts plump and prominently raised. Her lips were like ripe bimba fruit, her nose perfectly shaped, and she was, in every way, a woman of rare beauty. She seemed to glow with her own radiance, delightful and charming to behold. A bright vermilion mark always shone below the parting of her hair, and her palms were as red as lotus petals, adorned with crescent-shaped nails. Her rosy complexion glowed as radiantly as delicate red lac, and her nails gleamed like a cluster of moons, their beauty outshining even the autumn moon. She was adorned with anklets set with the finest jewels, their tinkling sounds coloring the air with music. Her hair, abundant and dark, was decorated with a garland of jasmine flowers. Her beauty was further enhanced by ornate earrings and exquisite ornaments. She wore bracelets, armlets, and conch-shaped ornaments, all made of precious jewels. Seeing her, so graceful, lovely, virtuous, with beautiful teeth and a pure heart, Shankhachuda addressed her: “Who are you, O beautiful and auspicious lady, bestower of all blessings? You who delight in heavenly pleasures and rivers, whose form is adorned with splendid necklaces?” Hearing these words, the woman with lovely eyes—her heart stirred with desire—spoke in reply. Tulasi said, “I am an ascetic, dwelling here. And who are you? Go as you please. I am a woman born in a noble family, alone in this secluded place, and virtuous by nature. A woman, if lustful, born in a low family, and ignorant of the true meaning of dharma as taught in the scriptures, appears sweet at first but ultimately brings ruin to a man. In her heart, she is as sharp as the edge of a razor, yet her words are always sweet. For her own purpose, she is ever submissive to her master; otherwise, she is unyielding. “The Purāṇas describe the conduct of women as indeterminate. Who can say who is enemy or friend among those who are always seeking something new? Outwardly, she claims to be devoted to her own self, but covers herself with deceit, while inwardly she longs for union. She is proud, becomes angry when deprived of intercourse, and is the root of quarrels. In her mind, she desires well-cooked food and cool water.” Thus, Tulasi spoke, revealing both her own nature and the nature of women as described in the ancient scriptures, while Shankhachuda listened, captivated by her beauty and wisdom.