Once again, both supplicants addressed him by the revered name Arunachala, seeking his guidance. Shiva, the compassionate Lord, instructed them, “Go and seek out the illustrious sage Gautama, who is devoted to me. There, I will reveal to you my radiant form.” Hearing these words from Shiva, the One beyond all divisions, they listened with reverence. Soon after, all the gods and sages gathered at that sacred place to offer their service. The deities and steadfast sages remained there, drawn by the sanctity of the site. It was a place that destroyed all sin and multiplied good fortune. Shiva declared, “I, in my partless form, remain here day and night. Through my worship, my presence in the world, and the protection of my dharma, I grant all desires. She, too, is called Kamakshi, the fulfiller of wishes, for this reason. Truly, I am the unimpeded offspring of Shambhu, the god of gods.” There, one journeyed and performed intense austerities, seeking to please Lord Shambhu. Having swiftly dismissed all the true devotees who served at his feet, she—the Mother—was constantly attended by her companions, who were ever devoted in their service. Within, she beheld the radiant and peaceful Lord, the presiding deity of the Aruṇa mountain. Filled with curiosity and devotion, she bowed to the immovable liṅga. At that sacred site, the great sages—Atri, Bhṛgu, Bharadvāja, Kaśyapa, and Aṅgirās—were also engaged in constant austerities, seeking the fulfillment of their own desired boons. This divine liṅga, known as Aruṇādri, was regarded by all as supremely worthy of worship. Once more, all the great sages requested her to accept their hospitality. Guided by the devoted sages, she approached the place they indicated. In the early morning, after gathering sacred sticks, grass, and fruits, she entered the forest. Instructing her disciples, the righteous one ventured deep into the woods. When others asked, “Where has the sage gone?” it was answered, “He will return here in a moment.” Upon his return, he was welcomed with rising, a seat was offered, water for his feet, arghya, and kind words. “Be patient for a moment, son,” she said, as others went to the designated place. Suddenly, the area became filled with splendid palaces, adorned with countless jewels. From a distance, he saw his hermitage transformed, shining with hundreds of celestial mansions. With the eye of knowledge, he perceived all that had transpired in Gaurī’s meeting. His swift-moving disciples recounted to him everything that had occurred. Filled with curiosity, the great sage approached, seeking only the fruit of his own austerities. At that moment, universal devotion to Shiva arose, intent on restoring what had once been lost. He saw Gautama arriving, attended by his disciples. Gautama’s matted locks were deeply copper-hued, purified by ritual baths in holy places. His broad forehead shone, adorned with sacred ash and the triple lines. He wore a red bark garment, and his body was emaciated by austerity. His speech carried a noble dignity, radiating the very presence of Shambhu. Seeing that venerable soul, aged and devoted to the feet of Shambhu, the sage beheld him with joined palms and recognized the Mother of all worlds standing before him. With deep reverence, he welcomed her: “Welcome, O Gauri, O fortunate one, O ocean of compassion, Mother of the world.