After all the remarkable deeds of the parrot had been reported, the wise one found himself enjoying happiness, approval in all his dealings, and honor among his peers. Yet, even amid such contentment, his mind turned once more to the idea of journeying abroad, this time with the intention of becoming a merchant. He resolved, “I shall bring many valuable things here, accompanied by jewel-appraisers and those experienced in sea travel.” With this firm declaration, he set off to pursue his new venture. He made careful preparations, gathering provisions of food and drink suitable for the journey ahead. Before leaving, he visited the house of the deity, where his mother and father offered him auspicious words of blessing. To those at home, he instructed, “You all will perform every service for my father,” and to the women of the household, he said, “And you, ladies, must fulfill my duties as is fitting.” Having received permission and good wishes from his wives, he made his way to the vessel that would carry him on his travels. All then boarded the ship, accompanied by the shipmen. But as fate would have it, a contrary wind arose with great force. The shipmen, overcome by this sudden misfortune, lost consciousness, becoming bewildered and weak. In their confusion and fear, they cried out, “Alas, what misery is this? Where are we going?” Their words were harsh, and they began to suspect one another, faint and confused by the calamity. In their distress, they wondered aloud, “Who among us, the most sinful, has boarded and brought this ruin?” As their lamentations continued, four of them gathered together, and mutual reproach and accusation arose among them. They came to a somber conclusion: “A man without a son has no destiny.” In the face of this dire situation, they asked, “What is appropriate to do now, in this difficult time?” At this moment, Śuka spoke with reassurance, saying, “I will do all that is necessary; do not let your mind be troubled.” Thus comforting his father, Śuka swiftly lifted him up and, moving low, protected him through the very difficult and impassable waters. The parrot, his feathers bristling with goosebumps, beheld a great mountain rising before them. Upon it, he saw the radiant abode of Vishnu. As he gazed, he noticed a calf wandering there and wondered, “Who is this calf wandering here? When and why has he come? Yet, he is my father.” For a moment, Śuka was absorbed in thought about him. Then, offering salutations to Narayana, he sat down on an excellent seat. Countless goddesses arrived there, just as she had before. The air was filled with singing, instrumental music, and dancing, and they all enjoyed themselves as they pleased. On the right side of the goddess sat the deities and the vulture birds. The parrot, having made his intention known, was placed in the midst of them all. They comforted him and asked, “How did you come here?” The parrot replied, “My father is on the raft. Desiring his protection, I have come here to this excellent mountain.” The birds said, “Go near the raft, following your father’s path. I will step in the water just as you place your feet. By plunging my beak in, the aquatic creatures will perish.” With their help, the parrot quickly carried his father across and reached the back of Jatayu. With a deep and gentle voice, as befits the virtuous, he spoke from his heart and throat. Before them appeared a lake filled with lotuses, adorned with jewels and precious stones. Gathering flowers, the parrot worshipped the god Keśava. Upon seeing the deity, he withdrew and hid in a secluded place, remaining there with the parrot’s consent. In a moment, those deities returned again, just as before. They came to welcome Gokarṇa, who, though tormented by hunger, was steadfast in Brahman and possessed of a great soul.