As Kalki and his fellow travelers approached the gate of Rakshavat, he noticed a peculiar sensation—a gradual shrinking of his height. Perplexed, he turned to his companions and inquired about the reason behind this unusual occurrence. They explained that it was a security measure enacted by the city, and it was meant to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering.
Upon reaching the gate, they were met by two imposing guards—one with the head of an elephant, the other with the head of a lion. These guards demanded verification of their identities. Kalki calmly presented the pass given to him by Amara, informing the guards that it would allow them safe passage into the kingdom without any trouble.
Witnessing the pass, the two guards immediately knelt down in deference, expressing apologies for not recognizing Kalki earlier. They promptly summoned their supervisor, who arrived and escorted Kalki and his companions into the city in a grand chariot, showcasing a level of respect and hospitality that left Kalki bewildered.
Seeking an explanation for the extraordinary treatment, Kalki turned to the general accompanying them. The general elucidated that the pass they possessed held the same authority as that of the city lords themselves, endowing them with special privileges and commanding reverence from those responsible for the city's security. Thus, Kalki and his companions were granted VIP treatment befitting their status and the power conferred upon them by the pass.
As Kalki inquired about their current location, the general respectfully informed him that they were in Lion Heart City, also known as Shermanav, emphasizing that the majority of its population consisted of lions. Kalki then greeted the general with a "Namaste, sir," expressing his respect.
Expressing his desire to visit a temple and pay homage to the Supreme One, Kalki asked if there was such a temple nearby. The general confirmed its existence and mentioned that it was dedicated to the God Narasimha, whose power was depicted in the statue within the temple—a finger said to be as strong as a hundred thousand lions. However, he added that to gain entry, one must prove themselves worthy by defeating the temple's guardian.
Suddenly, a ringing sound interrupted their conversation, signaling the arrival of Kalki's new quest: to defeat the guardian of the temple and prove himself worthy to Lord Narasimha. Taking this as a divine calling, Kalki expressed his intention to the general, requesting him to guide them to the temple.
Upon reaching the temple, they beheld a magnificent statue depicting Lord Narasimha piercing the demon Hiranyakashipu with his nails, a sight that filled them with awe and reverence. With determination in his heart, Kalki prepared himself to face the challenge that lay ahead, ready to prove his worthiness to the guardian and to Lord Narasimha himself.
As Kalki and Dhruv stood in the sacred presence of the magnificent statue of Lord Narasimha, the atmosphere seemed to reverberate with divine energy. The general, with a demeanor filled with reverence and awe, began to speak, his voice carrying the weight of centuries of devotion and spiritual wisdom.
"Behold," he intoned, his words resonating with a deep sense of reverence, "this is the Supreme Lord Narasimha, the divine manifestation of Lord Vishnu Himself. He is the embodiment of the eternal cosmic order, the epitome of valor, and the guardian of righteousness."
Gesturing towards the majestic form of Narasimha, the general continued, "In this sacred depiction, witness the divine fury of Lord Narasimha as he vanquishes the malevolent demon Hiranyakashipu. With his lion-like countenance and mighty claws, he emerges from the very essence of existence to protect his devotees and uphold the cosmic balance."
"In his divine presence," the general's voice resonated with a profound sense of reverence, "lies the assurance of protection for the virtuous and the deliverance of justice upon the wicked. He is the beacon of hope in times of darkness and the embodiment of boundless compassion."
"As you embark on your quest to prove your worthiness," the general concluded, his words imbued with the blessings of the divine, "may the divine grace of Lord Narasimha guide your steps, fill your hearts with courage, and illuminate your path with the eternal light of righteousness."
With hearts uplifted by the sacred teachings and divine presence, Kalki and Dhruv bowed in reverence, ready to embark on their journey to face the guardian of the temple and honor Lord Narasimha with their unwavering devotion and reverence.
As Kalki and Dhruv stood in the sacred presence of the magnificent statue of Lord Narasimha, the atmosphere seemed to reverberate with divine energy. The general, with a demeanor filled with reverence and awe, began to speak, his voice carrying the weight of centuries of devotion and spiritual wisdom.
"Behold," he intoned, his words resonating with a deep sense of reverence, "this is the Supreme Lord Narasimha, the divine manifestation of Lord Vishnu Himself. He is the embodiment of the eternal cosmic order, the epitome of valor, and the guardian of righteousness."
Gesturing towards the majestic form of Narasimha, the general continued, "In this sacred depiction, witness the divine fury of Lord Narasimha as he vanquishes the malevolent demon Hiranyakashipu. With his lion-like countenance and mighty claws, he emerges from the very essence of existence to protect his devotees and uphold the cosmic balance."
"In his divine presence," the general's voice resonated with a profound sense of reverence, "lies the assurance of protection for the virtuous and the deliverance of justice upon the wicked. He is the beacon of hope in times of darkness and the embodiment of boundless compassion."
"As you embark on your quest to prove your worthiness," the general concluded, his words imbued with the blessings of the divine, "may the divine grace of Lord Narasimha guide your steps, fill your hearts with courage, and illuminate your path with the eternal light of righteousness."
With hearts uplifted by the sacred teachings and divine presence, Kalki and Dhruv bowed in reverence, ready to embark on their journey to face the guardian of the temple and honor Lord Narasimha with their unwavering devotion and reverence.
The general led Kalki and Dhruv to a spacious circular area, at least five meters in diameter, where an air of solemnity hung palpably in the atmosphere. With a demeanor of utmost seriousness, the general explained the challenge that lay before them.
"Here stands the sacred circle," the general began, his voice carrying the weight of ancient traditions and divine decree. "Only two individuals may enter this circle, and they must do so barefoot. Once you step inside, you cannot re-enter. To attempt re-entry is to invite destruction, for the circle's divine protection will turn you to ashes."
Gazing at the circle with solemn determination, Kalki and Dhruv listened intently as the general continued, "Upon entering, you will find a small statue of Lord Narasimha. Your task is simple yet daunting: to touch the feet of the divine lord. But be warned, for your challenge shall commence the moment you make contact."
Dhruv, curious about the nature of the guardian they would face, inquired about its appearance. However, the general solemnly replied, "Even the king himself, if he were to stand before this circle, would not be granted knowledge of the guardian's form. Such is the sacred secrecy of this trial."
Undeterred by the mystery shrouding their adversary, Kalki and Dhruv stepped into the circle, their bare feet meeting the cool earth beneath them. As they reverently touched the feet of the miniature statue of Lord Narasimha, a profound transformation began to unfold.
Simultaneously, a hushed anticipation fell over the crowd gathered around the sacred circle. Their eyes were fixed intently on the unfolding spectacle. But as the companions made contact with the divine statue, a palpable surge of energy surged through the arena, and the atmosphere crackled with excitement.
Suddenly, a wave of fervor swept through the onlookers, and the once-muted murmurs erupted into a cacophony of shouts and cheers. The crowd's voices reverberated with a mix of awe, reverence, and encouragement, echoing off the walls of the temple and filling the air with a sense of anticipation.
"Go forth with courage!"
"May the divine guide your steps!"
"You are worthy!"
These cries of support and exhortation rang out from all corners of the temple, each voice adding to the chorus of fervent devotion and belief in the companions' abilities to overcome the challenges that lay ahead.
Amidst the uproar of the crowd, Kalki and Dhruv stood resolute, their spirits bolstered by the outpouring of support from the assembled throng. With determination etched upon their faces and the divine presence of Lord Narasimha as their guiding light, they prepared to face whatever trials awaited them within the sacred circle, embarking on their quest with the unwavering faith of those who are supported by the collective prayers and hopes of their community.
The circle, illuminated by a radiant glow, expanded before their eyes, growing to a size of nearly thirty meters in diameter. Suddenly, a fiery red light emanated from the statue, enveloping the entire arena in its divine brilliance.
With hearts filled with determination and faith, Kalki and Dhruv braced themselves for the challenge ahead, ready to face whatever trials awaited them within the sacred circle, guided by the unwavering presence of Lord Narasimha.
The circle, illuminated by a radiant glow, expanded before their eyes, growing to a size of nearly thirty meters in diameter. Suddenly, a fiery red light emanated from the statue, enveloping the entire arena in its divine brilliance.
With hearts filled with determination and faith, Kalki and Dhruv braced themselves for the challenge ahead, ready to face whatever trials awaited them within the sacred circle, guided by the unwavering presence of Lord Narasimha.