That divine radiance, once witnessed by Brahmā and earnestly sought by Viṣṇu, was now entreated to appear again. “Show me that supreme, fault-removing brilliance,” came the prayer. In response, the radiance manifested, flooding the vast expanse of all the worlds with its dazzling light. It was a vision of supreme effulgence, blazing with the intensity of millions of fires at the time of cosmic dissolution. Overwhelmed by wonder, the lotus-eyed goddess rejoiced at the sight. Then, before her, appeared a golden man, radiant and serene, whose melodious voice addressed her: “This radiant form has now been revealed to you. You have performed great austerities upon the earth—what more do you desire?” He continued, “Indeed, by beholding this brilliance, all disturbances are pacified.” Moved by divine inspiration, she suddenly seized the liṅga that was present at his throat, placing her trust in this form. “By worshipping and meditating upon me alone,” the golden being explained, “she attained lordship over the Gaṇas. For long has he borne the Malliṅga; even his accomplishments are by the grace of divinity. Therefore, those who are devoted and seek liberation should not always perform such acts, for they do not grant such results. Instead, like a thunderbolt, they may destroy. The true fruit is the attainment of vision, for it destroys all faults.” He continued, “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.” Hearing these words, the goddess bowed low, prayed, and Ambikā herself spoke to him. “This radiance that has been shown to you is seen by gods and humans alike. In this constellation called Kṛttikā, let your radiance shine supremely for all to see. Let all beings who behold it be freed from every sin.” With her companions, Ambikā reverently circumambulated the divine presence. Upon the Aruṇa mountain, she fashioned a liṅga that shone like an emerald, and she spread lotus petals and buds all around, as if worshipping the red mountain itself with the glances of her eyes. She was gratified by the Mothers, who offered her fragrant gifts and ornaments, and she was surrounded by celestial women and the wives of sages, all bearing offerings. Ambikā, desiring union with Śiva, stood as Parvatī had once done at the wedding fire, her heart full of longing. At Śaṃbhu’s command, the gods and the lords of the celestials gathered around her. She stood there, joined by the beloveds of all the guardians of the directions, the mountain maiden radiant among them. She embodied the very essence of the lord of the mountains, bringing a coolness and serenity as if to soothe the world. It was as though the virtue of her arduous penance was manifest in her presence. She, who had once engaged in playful sport, now stood united with austerity. Standing within the water, she contemplated how to bring coolness to both herself and the world. Wishing to declare her supremacy, she remained there, steadfast. Having accomplished her penance, she seemed to stand for its peaceful fulfillment, as if washing the liṅga with pure waters from sacred fords, all for the satisfaction of the lord of the crimson mountain—she whose breasts had not yet been embraced.