Kuṭilā, radiant as moonlight, was taken to the world of Brahmā. There, the sages addressed the Brahmin, urging him to speak of the son destined to slay the dreadful buffalo demon. It was declared that Kuṭilā, though unfortunate, should be released, so she might bear the energy of Śarva, the mighty Rudra. Yet, she expressed her apprehension, acknowledging to the Lord that the energy of Śarva was exceedingly difficult to bear. Nevertheless, she resolved to perform severe austerities to propitiate Janārdana, vowing sincerely and repeatedly that she would do so. At this, the blessed Brahmā, the primeval lord of all, also spoke. He pronounced that, burned by his curse, she would become all waters. Thus impelled, Kuṭilā, now composed of water, surged forth and flooded Brahmā’s world with her current. With the powerful bonds of the Ṛk, Sāman, Atharvan, and Yajus Vedas—through words alone—the pure, watery locks of Brahmā overflowed and inundated the realm. Having offered this to Brahmā, the Lord of Creatures addressed her: “By being mixed with my essence, you shall become the destroyer of the buffalo.” Even the gods could not transgress her command, yet now she was forcefully transgressed. Receiving conjunction with the Kṛttikā stars, the daughter of the mountain assumed a firm and resolute form. She attempted to restrain her austerities, but another approached and spoke to her. Thus, the maiden went to the forest of austerities and, fixing Rudra firmly in her mind, undertook exceedingly difficult penances. It was then commanded: “Bring here that Kālī, who is performing austerities in the Himalayas.” Yet, overpowered by her radiance, none could approach her. Those who tried reported to Brahmā that her brilliance was superior to theirs, and he stood in awe. “Surely, your brilliance has been scattered and destroyed by her radiance,” he remarked. The gods were urged to arrange for the buffalo demon, along with the stars, to be slain in battle. Relieved of their distress, they returned to their own abodes. Turning away from austerities, he and his wife went home. The great-minded one wandered among the lofty mountains with their excellent peaks. Honored with faith, the Lord spent that night there. He was asked to remain for the purpose of accomplishing austerities, and so he stayed, taking refuge in the hermitage, having abandoned his dwelling and shelter. To that place came Kālī, the auspicious daughter of the mountain king. Hara, devoted to yoga, welcomed her with hospitality and remained there. The radiant lady, together with her companions, bowed at his noble feet. Yet, saying, “This is not proper,” Hara vanished along with his attendants. Burning with inner sorrow, Pārvatī spoke to her father, expressing her longing for the worship of Śaṅkara, the wielder of the bow. She, now called Lalitā, undertook austerities, desiring to worship Hara. She began by gathering sacred sticks, grass, fruits, and roots. Having performed the rite with great energy, she prayed for well-being. Then, Tripurāntaka, pleased with her devotion and faith, appeared before her, wearing the sacred thread, carrying an umbrella, and clad in a deerskin.