In a time of deep contemplation and emotional turmoil, the sage’s son, a descendant of Kashyapa, found himself wandering aimlessly after the departure of the women who had once brightened his heart. His spirit was troubled, and he roamed the land, lost in thought. The next day, the valiant son of Vibhāṇḍaka, radiant in appearance, arrived at the same place, his mind swirling with reflections. As he approached, he beheld a gathering of charming and well-adorned women, their hearts swelling with joy at the sight of him. They drew near, their voices filled with warmth as they beckoned him to their hermitage, inviting him to partake in the wondrous roots and fruits that flourished in their abode. They promised him that a special destiny awaited him there, and upon hearing their heartfelt invitation, he resolved to go with them. The women led him away, and as they journeyed, the heavens opened up, showering rain that delighted the world below. With the gentle rain accompanying him, the sage arrived at the king's palace, where King Dasharatha, filled with reverence, stepped forth to greet him. Bowing his head to the earth, the king offered water in a gesture of hospitality, earnestly seeking the sage's favor to ensure that no anger would enter his heart. With utmost respect, he led the sage into the inner chambers and, in a tranquil spirit, bestowed upon him his daughter, Śāntā, bringing joy to his heart. Thus, the great and radiant Ṛṣyaśṛṅga settled in the palace, honored and fulfilled alongside his wife, Śāntā. As the narrative unfolds, we learn of a wise and righteous king named Daśaratha, born of the illustrious Ikṣvāku lineage, renowned for his truthfulness. He would forge a friendship with the king of Aṅga, who had a fortunate daughter named Śāntā. The son of King Aṅga, Romapāda, would become entwined in this tale, as Daśaratha sought to visit him. In his quest for progeny, King Dasharatha, feeling the weight of childlessness, expressed to the sage that Śāntā's husband should perform a sacrifice for him, as instructed, to ensure the continuation of his lineage. The sage, reflecting deeply, agreed to give his daughter’s husband, who had a son, the necessary guidance. With relief flooding his heart, King Dasharatha joyfully prepared for the sacrifice, eager to fulfill his desires for fame and progeny. With palms joined in reverence, he selected Ṛṣyaśṛṅga, the foremost Brahmin and knower of righteousness, to lead the sacred rites. The king envisioned four sons of immeasurable valor, destined to establish his lineage and be renowned throughout the realms. Heeding the wise counsel of Sumantra, Dasharatha felt a surge of delight and, accompanied by his inner court and ministers, set out to where the sage resided, traversing through forests and rivers. Upon nearing the eminent sage, Dasharatha beheld Ṛṣyaśṛṅga, who shone like fire. The king honored him with great respect, and Romapāda, out of friendship, shared all that was necessary with the sage’s son. Embracing him with bonds of kinship, the best of men stayed in the company of the king, who, after several days, spoke to Romapāda about his daughter Śāntā, urging her to come to his city for a significant purpose. With agreement from the king, Ṛṣyaśṛṅga prepared to depart with his beloved wife. They joined their palms in affection and embraced, while Dasharatha and the mighty Romapāda rejoiced at the union. After bidding farewell to his friend, the descendant of Raghu set forth, sending swift messengers throughout the city to prepare for the arrival of the esteemed Brahmin. The citizens, filled with excitement, adorned the city splendidly, perfuming and cleaning every corner in anticipation. As Dasharatha entered the beautifully decorated city, the sounds of conches and drums filled the air, heralding the arrival of the foremost Brahmin. The citizens, seeing Ṛṣyaśṛṅga, were overwhelmed with joy, honoring him as the king did, with the strength of Indra himself. When the sage was brought into the inner chambers and properly worshipped according to sacred customs, Dasharatha felt a profound sense of fulfillment, having successfully welcomed the sage into his realm, a moment that would forever change the course of his lineage.