Krishnapriya's face flushed with rage as she heard Aryavardhan's words. She stood her ground, fists clenched. "Never! I won't accept defeat," she spat, hurling her bloodied sword straight at him. In a flash, Aryavardhan sliced it clean in two with his own blade, the pieces clattering to the ground. He turned the sharp edge toward her, ready for whatever came next.
But then, a brilliant light burst from the void, illuminating everything around them. Krishnapriya's fierce expression softened instantly—she recognized it. She bowed deeply, her anger melting into reverence. Aryavardhan squinted, then gasped. It was Goddess Brahmacharini, the second form of Navdurga, radiating an otherworldly glow. He dropped to his knees, paying his respects.
"Rise, my child," the goddess said gently, her voice like a soothing breeze. Aryavardhan stood, hands folded, still bewildered. Why had she appeared here? His mind raced with questions.
The goddess's divine presence captivated them both. Krishnapriya and Aryavardhan clasped their hands in awe. Brahmacharini turned to Krishnapriya. "Daughter, do you remember the boon I granted you? Or has it slipped your mind?"
"Yes, Mother," Krishnapriya replied, her voice steady but emotional. "You blessed a humble girl like me with strength and wisdom."
"That boon was meant for this very moment," the goddess explained. "The man before you is the world's greatest archer and a noble king. He's matched your power blow for blow. Now, he will deepen your knowledge." She placed a hand on Krishnapriya's shoulder, a gesture of warmth and guidance.
Aryavardhan, still confused, spoke up politely. "Forgive me, Goddess. I didn't recognize you at first. What is it you wish me to do? I came seeking Sadashiv Rudradev, but this woman blocked my path and challenged me to battle. I had no choice but to fight."
"Son," Brahmacharini said with a knowing smile, "your wish to meet Sadashiva will come true. Krishnapriya is my devoted disciple. I taught her the four arts, but her thirst for learning was insatiable. She prayed for more, and in my pleasure, I bestowed enlightenment upon her, bidding her to wait for the right time. Until then, she guarded this place. In fulfilling that duty, the boon faded, and she lost sight of who you truly are."
Aryavardhan bowed at her feet. "Mother, what is your command for me?"
"Will you obey me, my son?" the goddess asked, her tone carrying a subtle challenge.
Krishnapriya sensed an undercurrent in their exchange, like unspoken secrets. Aryavardhan felt it too—a hint of something deeper. He closed his eyes and nodded in silent agreement. Brahmacharini turned to Krishnapriya. "Daughter, today you must offer me your guru-dakshina. Promise me something as your sacred gift."
"Your will is my command," Krishnapriya said, folding her hands earnestly. "What do you desire? I'll fulfill it."
"I wish for you to marry this man. Introduce yourself fully to him—you already know each other." With that, the goddess vanished in a shimmer of light.
Krishnapriya and Aryavardhan stared at each other, a mix of shock, lingering anger, and awkward embarrassment washing over them. The air felt thick with unspoken emotions.
