


          They climbed a steep hill. Yama glided upward, while Savitri 
     clambered after. 
          When they reached the top, Yama turned. "Savitri, I forbid you to 
     come further!" 
          Savitri said, "Lord Yama, you are respected and revered by all. 
     Yet, by the strength of my prayers, my promises, and my love, I will 
     remain by Satyavan!" 
          Yama said, "No, Princess, you will not, by all the power that is 
     mine! Still, I can only admire your courage and your firmness. I will 
     grant you one last favor--anything but the life of your husband."  
          Savitri said, "Then grant many children also to me--and let them 
     be children of Satyavan!" 
          Yama stood staring at Savitri. Then he said wonderingly, "You did 
     not ask for your husband's life. Yet I cannot grant your wish without 
     releasing him. Princess, your wit is as strong as your will!" 
          Yama took the spirit of Satyavan from his robe and unbound it. He 
     held it up, and the spirit vanished. 
          "Return, Savitri," said Yama. "You have won your husband's life." 


