At the close of the sacred ritual month—equal in sanctity to the very guardians of the directions—it was decreed that these divine powers be established at the forefront of holy sites, for the welfare of the entire world. By doing so, there would be no doubt: the threefold suffering that afflicts all the three worlds would be alleviated. With unwavering devotion, these powers were to be installed, always with the welfare of all beings in mind. This momentous occasion was to be accompanied by a grand festival, lasting ten days in celebration. Each evening, as prescribed by the sacred rites, my form was to be worshipped at the revered Shonachala. Such worship, performed by you, would bring about the protection and well-being of all the worlds. At this time, the mountain maiden—Parvati—undertook both the ritual and her intense austerities. Through her penance, at that very moment, nine sacred sites manifested there. With the approval of the assembled sages, she immersed herself in the sanctified waters of the site. Her inner radiance, shining forth, instantly filled the place with light. Yet, her heart was restless, tormented by separation from Shiva. With a gentle, serene smile, Parvati created a lotus upon the waters. In that instant, her efforts bore fruit, and the sacred places became fulfilled, each endowed with the blessings appropriate to that auspicious time. It was the month of Kartika, under the star Krittika, as night descended. The Mother of the Universe, Parvati, worshipped the liṅga fashioned from the very substance of the Aruṇa mountain. To this liṅga of the radiant mountain—destroyer of all great sins—she offered her devotion. Though Shiva was of the very form of fire, for the sake of blessing the worlds, he became tranquil. She addressed him: "O Lord of Aruṇa, best of mountains, ocean of beauty and form, you are proclaimed, O god, as the very seed of all radiance. That which was once seen by Brahmā and sought by Viṣṇu, show me that divine radiance, supreme and remover of all faults." In answer, that supreme radiance appeared, filling the expanse of all the worlds with its brilliance—a light like millions of dissolution-fires blazing at once. Overwhelmed with wonder, the lotus-eyed Parvati rejoiced at the vision. Then, before her, a golden man with a melodious voice appeared and spoke: "This radiant form has now been seen by you. You have performed great austerities on earth—what more do you desire? Indeed, all disturbances are pacified by beholding this radiance." Suddenly, Parvati seized that liṅga, which was situated at his throat. She placed her trust in me, with the liṅga form at my throat. By worshipping and meditating upon me alone, she attained lordship over the Gaṇas. Long has he borne the Malliṅga; thus, even his attainment comes from divinity. Therefore, those devoted and seeking liberation should not always perform this act. It does not grant such a result; rather, like a thunderbolt, it destroys. Merely the attainment of sight—beholding the liṅga—is fruitful, for it destroys all faults. She made you, O Apītakuca, loving and the protector of devotees. By the name of expiation, you are called Bhavāpītakucā. Worship me, the embodiment of compassion, the leader Apītakuca. Having bowed in reverence, Parvati prayed and Ambikā spoke to him.