In the course of events described, it was observed that neither sons, nor the wealth inherited from fathers, nor even knowledge, would remain with a person forever. Those who were reduced to fierce begging, surviving only on the food given by others, recalled with gratitude the Brahmins who had shown compassion to them during times of hardship, especially when they were struck by misfortune. Women born in noble families became the favorites of such individuals. When the twice-born departed, having recognized that lord as Śaṅkara (Shiva), they performed their ritual bath in Rudra’s lake and recited the Śatarudriya hymn with devotion. It was declared that no falsehood had been spoken; indeed, even those who acted according to their own will could not find true happiness. The Brahmins who were peaceful, self-controlled, and devoted to the divine, along with those who worshipped Janārdana and performed the Agnihotra rituals, were protected from misfortune. Those whose minds were steadfast in friendship were spared from calamity. Thus, having received both a curse and a boon from the great lord of gods, the twice-born stood before him and pleased Virāñci (Brahmā) with their prayers. Brahmā’s words brought satisfaction to all the foremost twice-born. Among them, some sages wished to choose the Vedas, while others declared, “What use have we for wealth when the Grandfather is pleased?” They prayed that peaceful and prosperous worlds might arise for them through the granting of boons. Yet, for the sake of these boons, some became ready to fight one another, while others remained indifferent or kept silent. It was proclaimed that among holy places, this one was the foremost; among sacred fields, it was the highest. After this conversation, the chief of the sages took up residence there without delay. By merely seeing these holy ones, a person would not behold the realm of Yama, the lord of death; even a slayer of a Brahmin would not see the world of Yama. In the Yadu lineage, divine forms possessing great splendor descended. After slaying Kaṃsa and Cāṇūra, they installed Ugrasena as king. Then, a question was posed: “Tell me, what should I do for you, now that your son has been killed?” The reply came: “Everything will be accomplished, O Krishna, for nothing is difficult for you.” Krishna was advised, “Go to Ujjayinī; there you will become accomplished in knowledge.” There, they mastered the Vedas and all codes of conduct, holding them at the tip of their tongues. In just sixty-four days and nights, O sage, that wondrous feat was accomplished. Reflecting upon this, it was considered as though the moon and the sun had come together in their brilliance. The Brahmin, together with his disciples, entered the great Kāla forest; at that time, Rāma and Keśava (Krishna) also entered with their own disciples. As they bowed before Mahākāla, Mahākāla spoke to Keśava, always bringing happiness to both the virtuous and the ignorant. He addressed them, saying that all the kings, led by Kaṃsa, had been slain by the two brothers, and now, O sinless ones, they must ensure the welfare of sages, siddhas, gods, and others. Krishna replied, “I will do that,” and departed after offering his respects. Who among them could believe such a wondrous statement? Then, a sound arose as the two embraced. It was not known at first that these two heroes were born in the Yadu and Vṛṣṇi lineages. Pleased, Krishna said together with Rāma, “What shall I give for the sake of my teacher?” The teacher replied, “I desire from you the son who died in the salt ocean.