Intent on killing Sudarśana, Yudhajit made his way to the hermitage of Bhāradvāja. But the sage, wise and compassionate, restrained him from his violent purpose, and Yudhajit returned to his own palace, his plan unfulfilled. Meanwhile, Śaśikalā confided in her mother, her heart unwavering in devotion. “Mother,” she said, “the prince who dwells in the forest is the one I desire, just as Sukanyā was devoted to her husband at the command of Śaryāti. As Cyavana, once attained, was lovingly served by Sukanyā, so too does service to one’s husband bring women both heavenly joy and liberation. When such service is rendered sincerely, without deceit, it brings true happiness. The supreme boon of such devotion was revealed to me by the Goddess Herself in a dream. How could I possibly choose another when Sudarśana’s name is inscribed upon the very foundation of my heart by the Divine Mother? Forsaking him, my beloved and dear one, I will not choose another.” But her mother, Vaidehi, tried to persuade her otherwise, offering many reasons and entreaties. Yet Śaśikalā stood firm, refusing every argument. At last, Vaidehi relayed everything her daughter had said to her husband, especially about the coming day of the svayamvara, as she had understood it. Acting swiftly, she entrusted a Brahmin—named Shashikala—with an urgent mission. “Go to Sudarśana,” she instructed, “but do so discreetly, so that my father remains unaware. When you reach the Bhāradvāja hermitage, noble one, convey my words quickly: ‘My father has arranged the svayamvara for my sake. Many powerful kings will come, but you alone are chosen in my heart, always with affection. Guided by the Goddess, radiant as a celestial, I would sooner eat poison or leap into blazing fire than choose another. Even if my parents urge me, in mind, action, and speech, you alone are my chosen one. By the grace of the Goddess, happiness will come to us both; you must come here, relying on supreme divine strength. All the world, with its moving and unmoving beings, is under Her control, and whatever She ordains will never be false. All the gods, including Shankara and the rest, exist under Her command. Tell this, O Brahmin, to the prince in private. Whatever is my purpose, you must accomplish it, O blameless one.’” Having received these words and a gift, the Brahmin departed at once. He reached Sudarśana and conveyed everything faithfully before returning. Hearing this message, Sudarśana resolved to depart, acting with utmost respect as urged by the sage. At this moment, Vyāsa tells us, Sudarśana’s mother, Manorama, saw her son preparing to leave. Overcome with sorrow and fear, trembling and her eyes filled with tears, she asked, “Where are you going now, my son, into the assembly of kings? You are alone, and have made enemies—what are you thinking, going to the svayamvara? The king, eager to slay you in battle, will surely confront you. You have no other helper; do not go, my son. I am utterly destitute, with only one son, and you are my sole support. Without you, I have no refuge. Do not abandon me to despair today. Your father was slain by that king, and now he too will be there. If you go alone, Yudhajit will kill you in battle.” Sudarśana replied calmly, “What must happen will certainly come to pass; there is no need for further deliberation. By the command of the Mother of the Universe, I am going today to the svayamvara. Do not grieve, O auspicious one; you are a Kshatriya, O beautiful-faced lady. By the constant grace of the Blessed Goddess, I have no fear.” Having spoken, Sudarśana mounted his chariot, ready to depart. Manorama, beholding her son, blessed him fervently: “May Ambika protect you in front, and Parvati guard you from behind; may Parvati shield you on both sides, and Shiva protect you everywhere. May Varahi guard you on difficult paths, Durga in fortresses, and the Supreme Goddess Kali in fierce battles. In the pavilion, may Matangi protect you, and Saumya at the svayamvara; among kings, may Bhavani, the liberator from worldly existence, shield you. May Girija protect you in mountain strongholds, Chamunda at crossroads, and Kamaga in the forests—may the Eternal Goddess protect you always. In disputes, may the Vaishnavi Shakti guard you, O best of the Raghus; may gentle Bhairavi stand at your feet amidst enemies. May Bhuvaneshvari always protect you in all places—the Great Maya, sustainer of the world, whose form is existence, consciousness, and bliss.” Still trembling, her heart overcome with fear, Manorama declared, “I will come with you, in every way. Without you, even for half a moment, I cannot remain here. Take me with you, my dear child, wherever you intend to go.” So saying, she set out, accompanied by her nurse. All the Brahmins gave their blessings and departed, their hearts filled with joy. Arriving at Varanasi in a single chariot, Raghava—Sudarśana—was recognized by Subahu, who honored him with offerings and all due hospitality. A house was provided for his lodging, with food and drink, and a servant was assigned for his service. Meanwhile, the kings assembled—rulers from many lands. Yudhajit arrived as well, accompanied by his grandson. The lord of Karusha, the king of Madra, the valiant king of Sindhu, the warrior ruler of Mahishmati, the Panchala, the mountain king, mighty Kamaroopa, powerful Karnata, the ruler of Chola, and the strong king of Vidarbha—all came together. At that time, sixty-three divisions of troops had gathered, and the city was surrounded on all sides by armies stationed everywhere, their presence filling the land with anticipation and tension.