The cold winds of the Mahendra Mountains bit at Rihan's skin as he followed Parshuram's lead, his mind swirling with thoughts of the power that lay ahead. He had come so far—mastering the mantras of the *Vijayadanusu*, facing trials he never imagined. But now, his mentor had revealed an even greater challenge: the need to claim two divine relics, the *Kavacha* and *Kundala*, from none other than Indra, the King of the Gods.
Parshuram's voice broke the silence, deep and resolute. "Rihan, the power you seek is not something that will be given freely. The *Kavacha* and *Kundala* are no mere blessings. They are divine relics, forged by the gods themselves, and only those deemed worthy can wield them. Indra will not simply hand them over; you must take them, proving your strength and determination."
Rihan looked at the sage, determination burning in his eyes. "Then I'll do whatever it takes, Guru. These relics—they're my birthright, aren't they? I won't let anyone stand in my way."
Parshuram nodded, his expression unreadable. "Yes, they are your birthright. But Indra will see that as a challenge. He is a god, and gods do not part with their treasures easily. You must be prepared to face him, not as a supplicant, but as a warrior."
Maya, who had been silently listening, spoke up, her tone concerned. "But how do we even reach Indra? Isn't Devaloka beyond our reach?"
Parshuram turned his gaze to the distant horizon, where the sacred peak of Mount Kailash loomed. "Mount Kailash is the gateway to Devaloka. From its summit, you will find the path to Indra. But beware, the path is guarded by divine forces, and the trials you will face are beyond anything you've encountered before."
The journey to Mount Kailash was grueling. The terrain grew harsher with each step, and the air thinner as they climbed. But Rihan's resolve never wavered. The thought of the *Kavacha* and *Kundala*, the keys to unlocking his full power, drove him onward.
At last, they reached the base of Mount Kailash. The sacred mountain towered above them, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. At its foot stood an ancient shrine, its stone walls etched with runes of power. A figure awaited them there, cloaked in white and gold, his presence radiating an aura of divinity.
"Who seeks the path to Devaloka?" the figure asked, his voice both calm and commanding.
Rihan stepped forward, bowing slightly. "I am Rihan, son of Surya. I seek the *Kavacha* and *Kundala* from Indra."
The figure's eyes gleamed with ancient wisdom as he studied Rihan. "The *Kavacha* and *Kundala* are not mere artifacts to be claimed by anyone who desires them. To take them from Indra, you must prove your strength and resolve. He will test you, challenge you, and you must be ready to meet him on his terms."
Rihan's jaw tightened. "I'm ready."
The figure stepped aside, revealing a narrow path that wound up the mountain. "Follow this path, and it will lead you to the gateway of Devaloka. But remember, Rihan—Indra is a god, and gods do not part with their treasures easily."
The climb up Mount Kailash was a test of endurance and will. Each step felt heavier than the last, as if the mountain itself were trying to hold them back. But finally, after what seemed like an eternity, they reached the summit. There, bathed in the golden glow of the Sun, stood a shimmering portal—the gateway to Devaloka.
Taking a deep breath, Rihan stepped into the portal, with Maya and Parshuram close behind. The world around them shifted, and they found themselves in a realm of unparalleled beauty. The skies shimmered with hues of gold and silver, and the air was thick with divine energy.
Before them stood Indra, his form radiant and imposing. Seated on his throne of clouds, he regarded them with a mixture of curiosity and challenge. Beside him, the *Kavacha* and *Kundala* gleamed with an ethereal light, each relic pulsing with power.
"Rihan, son of Surya," Indra's voice boomed, echoing across the realm, "you seek the *Kavacha* and *Kundala*. But power is not something to be taken lightly. To claim these relics, you must prove your worth. You must face me and show that you are deserving of what you seek."
Rihan stepped forward, his grip tightening on the *Vijayadanusu*. "I didn't come here to beg, Indra. I came to take what's mine. If I have to fight you for it, so be it."
Indra's eyes narrowed, and a slow smile spread across his face. "Very well, mortal. Let us see if you have the strength and the will to claim the power of the gods."
As the air crackled with divine energy, Rihan steeled himself for the battle ahead. He knew that this fight would not be easy, but he was ready to face whatever challenges Indra had in store. The fate of the world—and his destiny—hung in the balance.