Twelve years had passed since the birth of the beloved son in the merchant’s household. As he reached this age, his parents gently counseled him to consider what would be most auspicious for his future. His mother, with loving concern, asked, “What is this thought, child, about journeying to the place of the boar? Even today you call me ‘mother’—how do you understand this bond between us?” She spoke with warmth, assuring him, “There is no offense, my son, even in the houses of those who till the fields. Even when anger arises, and a stick is raised out of fear, love remains. Such is the nature of affection between mother and child.” Hearing his mother’s words, the young man—the delight of the merchant family—reflected deeply. He spoke with gentle reverence: “Mother, I once dwelt in your womb, growing as an embryo within your body. I have suckled at your breasts, playing and growing under your care. Please, mother, show me compassion as is right and fitting.” He then pondered the deeper truths of life: “Some souls come and go, others depart and new ones arrive. From where was one born? To whom is one truly bound? Who, in truth, is mother or father? In countless births, one has had thousands of mothers and fathers, and hundreds of sons and wives. Knowing this, do not grieve, O mother, at any time.” Then, turning to his father, he asked, “What is this great secret? Please, father, let it be revealed.” With sweet words, he addressed both his mother and his father, urging them to inquire about the mystery of the Saukarava. He said, “When you reach the holy place of the Sun, whatever you seek to know, O father, ask there. Having resolved to undertake the journey regarding the Saukarava, let us go.” Thus, the lotus-eyed lord of the Ābhīras set out, accompanied by his family and their wealth. All of them journeyed together. On the thirteenth day of the bright half of the month of Māgha, as the first part of the day unfolded, he began his journey. After a long time, Narayana was brought forth. Having bathed and satisfied the ancestors with offerings, and adorned in fine clothes and ornaments, they were ready. There, a man named Bhangurasa, devoted to his duties, was present. He gave the young man twenty valuable cows, as well as wealth and jewels, bestowing gifts generously day after day. While they dwelled in that sacred place, the rainy season arrived. The kadamba trees blossomed, as did the kuṭaja and arjuna trees. Torrents of rain struck the earth, thunder roared and hummed, rivers surged with sound, and peacocks cried out joyfully. Gentle winds blew, bringing comfort and delight to the peacocks. The season passed, filled with the resounding drums of clouds. As the rains subsided, the ponds became clear, filled with blooming lotuses and water-lilies. Pleasant, fragrant, and cool breezes soothed all who were there. When autumn ended in this way, the festival of Kaumudi arrived. Then, on the eleventh day, O fair-browed one, after bathing and adorning himself in linen garments, the young man marked six months of comfortable dwelling in that place. On the twelfth day, he listened to the words of his parents. Steadfast in righteousness, he prepared to heed their guidance, his heart filled with devotion and reverence.