-
On the other side, in the human world, near the waters of South Jambudvipa, Agni rode a golden-horned billy Sheep, leading countless armies across the world. The mighty Legions of Svarga, clad in brilliant golden armor and wielding magical weapons, filled the skies. The dazzling armor shimmered so brightly that it blotted out the sun, casting a golden hue across the heavens.
"Aruna, let us become the dawn and light the way forward!"
Surya, dressed in resplendent golden armor, stood atop his sun chariot, waving his mighty hand forward.
The seven divine horses neighed loudly as their hooves pounded the ground in unison. The reins, turbulent and wild, were gripped tightly by the legless young god, Aruna, who drove the chariot with unwavering precision.
Aruna, the God of Dawn, was the elder brother of Garuda and the driver of the sun chariot under Surya's command.
"No force can stand against us, for we are the dawn, and the day is ours to claim!"
"Dawn!!!"
Aruna, with a sudden roar, seized the reins and urged the divine chariot forward. In an instant, they vanished into the human world. The seven horses galloped fiercely, and the chariot radiated the light of dawn, piercing the void and dispelling the cold, silent space around it. The chariot of the sun lit up the world, breaking through the darkness and guiding the Legions behind.
"Soldiers!"
Vayu, holding a sharp divine spear and a divine bow, led the Gazelle, which pulled the divine chariot, moving as swiftly as the wind, right behind the sun chariot.
The hundred thousand strong soldiers followed closely behind, marching under the light of dawn.
Boom! Boom!
The space at the edge of the human world and the Patala loka trembled violently. Shaking quakes rippled through the air, distorting the fabric of the world.
Uh-huh!
The sun chariot descended like a blazing star, cutting through the layers of void before appearing in the deep, dark realm.
Surya narrowed his eyes.
On the cracked, dry red, and black land ahead, a vast Asura army had gathered. The Asura Legions stood in tight formation, weapons in hand, awaiting the arrival of the gods, as if they had long prepared for this moment.
A towering figure, seemingly an Asura, stood at the front of the Asura armies. His imposing presence felt like a mountain of mandalas, exuding an aura of boundless power.
But what was most terrifying... This figure's face was identical to Hiranyaksha's!
"Hiranyaksha…..!"
Surya's face twisted with horror, but then he quickly shook his head. "No, Hiranyaksha was slain by Lord Vishnu avatar, Varaha. You are... Hiranyakashipu!" Surya's voice rang out in disbelief.
His sun chariot soared to great heights, and the golden sun, radiating boundless brilliance, instantly illuminated the entire land.
The Vayu's Gazelle chariot shot forward. Fueled by an intense fighting spirit, he took the lead as the vanguard of the Legions. Drawing the God of Wind's bow, he released an arrow of swirling wind, transforming it into a force of nature.
"Soldiers, heed my command!"
Vayu roared as he released the wind arrow.
Uh-huh!
The arrow twisted and multiplied in mid-air, splitting from one into two, two into four, four into eight…
In an instant, thousands of wind arrows manifested, a veritable curtain of arrows falling across the land, heading straight for the Asura Legions.
Vayu held the divine bow, his eyes flashing with satisfaction as he watched the onslaught unfold.
Still powerful, he thought to himself. The Asura Legions hesitated, their fear palpable as they watched the arrows fill the sky. But Hiranyakashipu stood firm, unmoving, his presence a daunting calm in the chaos.
General Nishumbha frowned, stepping forward to take action, but she was halted by a cane thrust before her chest.
"Don't rush!"
Asura Teacher Shukracharya's voice was steady and composed. He retracted his arm, and his gaze shifted to the imposing figure of Hiranyakashipu in front of him.
Hiranyakashipu slowly raised his head, his eyes meeting the approaching force of the wind god, Vay,u, and the fire god, Agni, whose chariot was now charging forward with a hundred thousand celestial Legions behind it.
The corner of Hiranyakashipu's mouth curled into a slight, cold smile.
In an instant, he turned his right hand, spreading his fingers wide.
Uh-huh!
Light flickered in the palm of his hand, and a massive war hammer materialized. With a swift motion, he swung the hammer down into the air, its power emanating like a storm.
The war hammer began to change, multiplying at a terrifying speed. It grew exponentially, and in the blink of an eye, hundreds of millions of massive war hammers were created, each one spinning as it collided with the thousands of arrows.
Boom! Boom! Boom...
The arrows of the God of Wind, which had once filled the sky, were obliterated in an instant, exploding into nothingness with a deafening sound.
More war hammers rained down from the sky, dark and ominous, crashing down upon the gods and their Legions.
Boom!
Vayu watched in horror as the giant hammer grew larger and larger, filling his vision before appearing directly in front of him. With a thunderous impact, it slammed into his head, sending him flying from his sacred chariot, which flipped and crashed to the ground.
In the wake of the hammer's destructive force, many of the Gandharva army were struck down as well. The gods fell to the earth in droves, like dumplings tossed into boiling water.
"Ahhh!"
"It hurts!"
Screams echoed one after another.
Surya opened his mouth in shock, staring at the chaos unfolding before him.
Something is wrong with this situation! Shouldn't the Devas be marching triumphantly, pushing their way into the Patalaloka and defeating King Asura?
What is happening here?!
A wave of horror washed over Surya as he realized the true power of Hiranyakashipu. He was invincible.
In a panic, Surya called out, "Aruna, we need to leave, now!"
Aruna's expression tightened. Without hesitation, he pulled the reins, turned the chariot, and urged the horses to gallop.
The flying war hammers rained down relentlessly. Fortunately, Aruna's driving skills were unmatched. He weaved expertly through the chaos, maneuvering the chariot up, down, left, and right, narrowly dodging each hammer.
"Surya!"
At that moment, Agni appeared, riding his golden-horned Sheep.
"Be careful, Agni—!"
Before Surya could finish his warning, a massive war hammer struck Agni directly. With a thunderous crash, Agni was sent plummeting to the ground like a meteor, creating a giant crater upon impact.
"!!!"
"Agni!"
Surya gasped in horror, clutching the frame of the chariot. His heart raced as he caught sight of countless war hammers barreling toward them. The sacred chariot bucked violently, and Surya's panic intensified.
The power of this Hiranyakashipu rivals that of the golden-eyed warrior, and may even be greater.
Vayu had fallen without resistance. The same fate had befallen Vulcan.
"Let's go! We must retreat immediately!"
"Quickly, head to Vaikuntha and seek help from the preserver of the world!" Surya shouted, his large hand outstretched in urgency.
All of this was being watched by Rishi Brihaspati and Indra. As the mirror rippled and turned off.
Rishi Brihaspati stood frozen, his mouth agape as he watched the scenes unfolding before him. The 100,000-strong legions in Svarga—gone in an instant?!
"Fortunately, I was prepared," Indra muttered, clicking his tongue in annoyance. He sighed deeply and began to turn away.
All the Devas had consumed the Amrita of immortality, so casualties were no longer a concern.
Rishi Brihaspati hurried forward, patting Indra's arm in a panic. "King, you're going to Brahma Loka. What about the others?"
Indra glanced at the Rishi with a puzzled expression.
"Am I such a selfish person?" Indra replied. "As a member of my Svarga Loka, I'll ensure every resident is cared for. You needn't worry. I'll head to the Sun Temple now and escort Surya's subjects to Brahma Loka first."
"As for rescuing the Devas in the hands of Asuras, we need to plan carefully. Don't worry, teacher."
"But is it too late?" Rishi Brihaspati asked, his voice tinged with concern.
"Don't worry," Indra said with a reassuring smile. "The Devas, Gandharvas, and the entire legions are immortal. Hiranyakashipu is no easy foe but even he won't kill them."
Indra patted Rishi Brihaspati's shoulder comfortingly. "By the way, mentor, your wife Tara is still in the human world. Would you like to join us?"
Upon hearing this, Rishi Brihaspati breathed a sigh of relief.
"There's no need to worry. Last night, Soma came to me and told me that Tara was not safe in the human world, so I had him transform into moonlight to bring her here."
"They should be back in Svarga soon."
"Soma is quite thoughtful!" Rishi Brihaspati smiled brightly.
Indra stared at him, utterly confused.
---
Indra frowned, his brows knitting together as realization dawned. No wonder Soma was absent!
"Let me handle things like this from now on. Soma's work has proven unreliable," Indra muttered, his tone sharp with disapproval.
He did have a good relationship with Soma—one might even call it camaraderie—but that only made his frustrations more poignant. Soma, the god of the moon and Soma ras, was notoriously indulgent, far more so than even Indra in his younger, wilder days. If Indra had once been careful to avoid "stirring the waters too close to home," as the saying went, Soma made no such distinctions.
More troublingly, Soma's affinity for intoxicants wasn't just his divine domain; it was his greatest temptation. Indra couldn't help but worry. Would Soma's indulgences lead to harm, intentionally or not?
Turning to his teacher, the wise Rishi Brihaspati, Indra spoke with a mixture of concern and authority. "Teacher, please guide Soma more closely in the days to come. Teach him the essence of Dharma."
Brihaspati tilted his head, his expression bemused. "What exactly do you mean by that, Indra?"
Indra sighed and shook his head. "Never mind if you don't understand, Teacher. When the time comes, I'll spar with Soma myself and knock some sense into him." His voice carried an edge of humor, though it was clear he meant every word.
Having said his piece, Indra wasted no time. He turned on his heel, his form shimmering with divine energy, and launched himself into the skies toward Suryaloka.
The journey was swift, the wind bending to his will as he raced toward his destination. Before long, Indra arrived at the main temple, a structure so radiant it seemed to embody the very essence of the sun itself.
Standing before the dazzling edifice, Indra's divine form began to expand. His presence magnified tenfold, his radiant eyes gleaming like miniature suns. Thunder crackled in the skies above, wrapping his body in bolts of lightning as he assumed his greatest form—a god of storms and thunder.
The Sun Temple responded to his arrival, its light intensifying, beams of celestial energy spilling forth to illuminate the heavens. The divine architecture trembled under the weight of Indra's power, as though bowing to the King of Svarga.
Indra smirked, though his expression remained focused. This was his realm, his domain. No power within the heavenly planes could defy him.
Boom!
The temple shuddered violently, the ground quaking as Indra's aura rippled outward, shaking the celestial realm itself.
"This ends here," Indra murmured to himself, his gaze hard and determined.
The Sun Temple had no choice but to yield to its King.
At that moment, a goddess adorned in a flowing red dress stepped gracefully out of the Sun Temple.
Her beauty was mesmerizing, with a delicate cinnabar mark gracing her forehead, a symbol of her divine heritage. Her golden gown draped around her figure, accentuating her curves and radiating an aura of vitality and fertility. She exuded a presence as vibrant and life-giving as a mare in her prime—an embodiment of abundance and nurturing energy.
This was none other than Sanjna, the Goddess associated with Clouds.
The wife of Surya, daughter of the celestial craftsman Vishvakarma, and mother to Yama and Yamuna, the Ashwini twins. Sanjna's identity was etched into the heavens. Her radiance, soft yet commanding, was unmistakable.
"Indradev, what are you doing here?" Sanjna asked, her voice trembling. She instinctively stepped back, crossing her arms protectively over her chest. Fear flickered in her wide eyes as she continued, "Where is Surya?"
"There's no time to explain!" Indra's voice was sharp, his tone urgent. "The legions of Asuras are preparing to attack Svarga. I must send you to Brahmaloka for safety."
Without waiting for her response, Indra clasped his hands together in a gesture of divine command. The Sun Temple rumbled violently as its very foundations detached from Svarga, lifting into the skies.
Boom!
Sanjna staggered, her footing unsteady as the temple trembled and surged upward. Confusion and fear played across her face as she swayed, clutching a nearby golden pillar for support.
"Hold on! I'm speeding up!" Indra shouted, his eyes fixed resolutely ahead.
The temple accelerated, propelled by Indra's divine power. Sanjna gasped, her cheeks flushed with terror as she slid to the ground, leaning against the pillar to steady herself.
Above the skies of Svarga, the celestial expanse unfolded—a vast, boundless realm shimmering with ethereal light.
"Pranam Devi Sarasvati!" Indra called out, his voice echoing with reverence.
His gaze fell upon the radiant form of Sarasvati, goddess of wisdom and knowledge. She rode a graceful swan, her veena resting delicately in her hands. Her luminous presence illuminated their path forward.
In an instant, the celestial space transformed.
The skies turned a serene, endless blue, a sea of clouds rising in majestic waves. The air was perfumed with the delicate fragrance of blooming lotus flowers, and divine tranquility enveloped the realm.
At the heart of this sacred realm, Brahmaloka, sat two radiant figures cross-legged, their forms exuding an aura of timeless wisdom and boundless power.
"We've arrived," Indra announced solemnly, his voice carrying the weight of the moment.
The Sun Temple came to rest, its journey complete. They were now in Brahmaloka, the abode of the Creator.
Indra curled his lips into a faint smile as he descended gracefully on a cloud, carefully placing the Sun Temple down with practiced ease.
"Pranam Brahmadev! Pranam Devi!" Indra greeted, bowing with his hands pressed together in reverence to Brahma and the goddess Sarasvati, who sat resplendent in the celestial radiance of Brahmaloka.
"The Svarga is under siege," he explained, his tone steady yet tinged with urgency. "The Asura Hiranyakashipu, armed with a new boon, has launched an assault on the Devas. I've had no choice but to relocate the Suryaloka here for safety. I'm afraid it will have to remain in Brahmaloka for some time."
Indra's expression softened slightly as he offered a faint, apologetic smile, his words carrying the weight of duty.
Sarasvati, the goddess of wisdom and learning, shifted her gaze to the silent Brahma beside her. Her knowing eyes lingered on her husband, whose guilt was all too apparent. She understood the situation immediately.
Hiranyakashipu's newfound power was clearly the result of a boon granted by Brahma himself. Yet Sarasvati, in her wisdom, had also ensured that the Devas retained the blessing allowing them entry into Brahmaloka—a safeguard that was proving indispensable now.
"It is permitted," Sarasvati said calmly, her voice resonating with divine authority.
At that moment, Sanjna regained her composure. Glancing around the divine realm, her gaze fell upon Lord Brahma and Sarasvati. It was only then that she realized her earlier misunderstanding of Indra's intentions. Embarrassed, she quickly bowed low in apology to the celestial couple.
Before she could turn and offer her apologies to Indra, however, the King of Svarga was already gone.
Whoosh!
A flash of thunder illuminated the skies as Indra sped back to Svarga, his movements swift and purposeful. His destination was clear: Chandraloka, the Temple of the Moon.
At the Temple of the Moon
As Indra arrived, the temple was bathed in a soft, silver glow, reflecting the serene radiance of the lunar deity it housed. Almost immediately, twenty-seven ethereal figures emerged, their graceful forms moving with urgency.
Rohini, the chief consort, led the group, her beauty radiant even amid chaos. She was accompanied by the other Nakshatra goddesses, each representing a star constellation and each more exquisite beauty than the last. Together, they bowed deeply before the King of Svarga.
"Pranam, King Indra!" they chorused, their voices harmonious and tinged with concern.
Indra wasted no time. "The Asuras are advancing. Svarga is in grave danger. I must transport you to Brahmaloka for your safety," he declared.
Rohini stepped forward, her face a mix of worry and longing. "King of Svarga," she began, her voice trembling slightly, "my husband has not returned in a long time. Where is Soma? Why is he not here with us?"
Her question hung in the air, the other goddesses looking to Indra for an answer. But the King of Svarga's face remained impassive, his thoughts hidden as he prepared for the task at hand.
Indra froze for a moment, his mind racing. How does she know Soma isn't with Vayu and Agni?! Blinking rapidly, he suddenly had a spark of inspiration.
"Eh~" Indra's voice shifted to a more confident tone, his expression brightening. "I'm not sure where Soma has gone, but it might indeed be dangerous. However, worry not. I will send you all to Brahmaloka shortly. There, you can ask the Lord Brahma and Devi Sarasvati directly."
He paused, letting the brilliance of his plan unfold. "Lord Brahma is the creator of the Universe who has created everything in the Tri Loka, surely knows Soma's whereabouts and can summon him back. Additionally, you could perform penance before the Brahma and devi Saraswati, seeking their blessing to grant you the ability to see Soma at any time. In that way, you will never have to worry about him again."
Indra clapped his hands together, a satisfied smile on his face. Wonderful! The King of Svarga was truly full of wisdom!
Rohini's eyes lit up at the suggestion, and the other Nakshatra goddesses exchanged enlightened glances.
"Won't this solve the most crucial problem in your lives? Why don't you thank me yet?" Indra teased, blinking playfully as he spread his hands in mock impatience.
The Nakshatra goddesses, led by Rohini, broke into radiant smiles, quickly clasping their hands together in gratitude.
"Pranam King of Svarga, thank the great and wise King of Svarga!"
Their voices rose in harmonious unison, their reverence clear.
Indra wasted no time, acting with the precision and efficiency befitting the King of Svarga.
The Moon Temple was the first to be sent to Brahmaloka. One by one, the grand palaces of Agni, the Fire God; Varuna, the Water God; and Vayu, the Wind God, were also carefully transported to the celestial realm. Each was safely secured under the watchful eyes of Brahma and Sarasvati.
Soon, Svarga stood eerily empty. The once-bustling realm of the Devas was now devoid of its glorious temples, its grandeur relocated for protection.
All that remained was the magnificent Amravati city, the abode of the King of Svarga.
Back at Amravati
Indra strode purposefully into the Temple of the King of Svarga. His gaze fell upon the grand Throne of the King of Svarga, which stood proudly at the center of the temple. Its brilliance seemed to outshine the entire space, glowing with a golden radiance that evoked awe and reverence.
This throne, the symbol of divine authority, was the center of the cosmos—bright, dazzling, and undeniably alluring.
Indra sighed deeply, his expression softening.
"It's all because of this seat," he murmured to himself. "Hiranyakashipu desires it so much. Very well… I'll leave this seat to anyone who asks for it."
His thoughts lingered for a moment, heavy with resolve. He knew the throne's symbolic power, yet his duty to Svarga and its people far outweighed personal pride.
Indra, the King of Svarga, was prepared to make sacrifices.
He shook his head, striding purposefully out of the palace of the Heavenly King. His steps echoed with finality as he walked along the road leading out of Amravati City. With each step, his form began to expand, growing vast and imposing. His divine skin glowed like molten gold, radiating brilliance across the heavens. He inhaled deeply, swallowing the air like storm clouds, and exhaled with the force of a gale. Waves of terrifying pressure rippled outward, a silent warning to anyone who dared oppose him.
"This is the last city of Amravati left…" Indra murmured under his breath.
The King of Svarga paused, rubbing his hands together as if preparing for an immense task. Amravati City, the crown jewel of the heavens and the largest of all was left for last.
Just as he was about to lift the grand city, a sudden cry for help broke through the stillness.
"Indra, save me!"
The voice, unmistakable and filled with desperation, jolted Indra's focus. He turned around sharply, his eyes narrowing.
From the distance, the figure of Varuna came into view. Varuna was astride his divine mount, the great Makara—a fearsome creature with the shape of a crocodile, the head of a sheep, and the tail of a fish. The Makara moved with incredible speed, darting like lightning across the skies.
Chasing close behind was an Asura general, his presence exuding malevolence as he pursued relentlessly.
"Ha?!" Indra's eyebrows shot up in surprise, his expression incredulous. "It's not Hiranyakashipu, yet you dare to chase all the way into Svarga?! Are all Asuras so bold now?"
His tone grew sharp, crackling with divine authority. "Who gave him the courage!"
Indra planted his feet firmly on the ground, his towering form casting a shadow over the heavens. His neck twisted with a resounding crack, like thunder rolling through the clouds.
Slowly, with the air around him shimmering from his divine power, Indra raised his hand.
In a flash, a magnificent seven-colored bow appeared in his palm, its radiance splitting the sky. The bow, glowing with celestial hues, seemed to pulse with the power of storms and lightning.
"Indra Dhanush!"
The very air trembled at the sight of the King of Svarga's legendary weapon.
---
Indra stood sideways, his colossal elemental form stretching as vast as the starry heavens. Blue lightning coiled around him like serpents, crackling with divine energy. His Sahsrakavacha gleamed brilliantly, radiating a light that seemed to illuminate the sky. At this moment, he appeared as a towering giant who upheld the earth and crushed all who opposed him.
His eyes, blazing like twin suns, burned with an intensity that could pierce through any shadow. His presence was as immovable as a mountain, exuding an aura of overwhelming dominance.
In his immense hand, he held the divine bow, its ethereal bowstring shimmering like a rainbow across the skies. With a steady motion, Indra drew back the string, the tension crackling with raw energy.
Whoosh!
A thunderbolt of light burst forth, slicing through the air with terrifying speed.
The blue lightning streaked past the edge of Makara, narrowly missing the divine beast. The sheer force of the bolt caused Varuna and Makara to freeze in terror. Both trembled, momentarily stunned by the devastating power that had just been unleashed.
The pursuing Asura general halted in his tracks, his expression shifting from rage to alarm. His grip tightened on the scimitar in his hand—a weapon forged by the legendary Asura craftsman Maya, imbued with waves of divine power. With a defiant roar, he swung the scimitar downward.
The blade gleamed, radiating a galaxy-like cascade of light as its power surged forward in a torrent of destruction.
Boom!
Indra's arrow struck with perfect precision. The thunderbolt tore through the void, meeting the scimitar mid-swing. The weapon shattered into countless shards, each fragment glowing with remnants of divine energy.
The fragments shot backward, embedding themselves in the Asura general's chest with explosive force.
A blinding thunderstorm erupted from the impact. Lightning surged outward like a swarm of furious serpents, writhing and striking with relentless fury. The electric Naga coiled around the Asura's form, biting deep into his flesh.
In an instant, his chest was ripped apart. Flesh and blood erupted violently, scattering in all directions. A gaping, smoldering wound now marred his once-imposing figure.
"Ahhhhhhh!"
The Asura let out an earth-shaking scream as his body twisted in agony. In his desperation, he revealed his true form—a massive, grotesque giant with three heads, ten arms, and a serpentine tail. Yet even in this monstrous shape, a gaping hole remained in his chest, leaking divine ichor.
With a swift motion, the Asura turned and fled, his serpentine tail undulating wildly as he retreated into the distance.
Indra tilted his head slightly, a mix of amusement and disdain flickering across his expression.
"It didn't die in one shot?" he mused aloud, his voice laced with both awe and irritation. "This Asura is quite capable."
Yet his sharp gaze never wavered. Indra raised the divine bow again, drawing another arrow with ease.
Boom!
This time, the thunderbolt struck its mark with absolute finality.
All three heads of the Asura exploded simultaneously, bursting into countless fragments. The sky was filled with a cascade of blazing light as the remnants of his form were obliterated.
The battlefield fell silent, the Asura's monstrous figure reduced to nothing but ashes scattered by the winds.
Varuna quivered slightly, his face shifting from alarm to astonishment. He quickly clamped his legs together, urging his mount, Makara, forward. The divine beast, swift as lightning, charged toward Indra.
"Indra! My good brother, the commander of the Devas, I'm glad you're here!" Varuna called, his voice laced with a hint of fear as his gaze darted around, searching for any sign of danger.
Indra, standing with an air of supreme calmness, observed the space behind Varuna and asked, his voice steady yet tinged with suspicion, "Where is Surya? Didn't he retreat?"
Indra's eyes had witnessed Surya retreating from the battlefield with his gaze, and now, it troubled him to see his absence.
"He should have gone to the Kshira Sagara to find the Lord," Varuna answered quickly, his expression grim. "Vayu and Agni have both fallen into the hands of the Asura."
As he spoke, Varuna's face darkened, a sudden realization flashing in his eyes. "Many Asuras have already reached Svarga, what should we do?"
Indra frowned deeply. He grasped his divine bow with practiced ease and extended his senses, scanning the entire realm of Svarga.
The divine light of Svarga illuminated everything, its vastness stretching far and wide, reflecting in Indra's focused eyes. The clouds shifted lazily overhead, the essence of all things visible. But something was amiss. Not only were Asuras here, but a surge of "foreign objects"—likely enemies—had begun appearing, converging upon their position.
He exhaled slowly, assessing the dire situation. "You move Amravati City to Brahma Loka, and I will handle the rest."
Indra took a step forward, his eyes narrowed in determination. With his back to Varuna, his presence was all-consuming. His power radiated as he prepared for the battle ahead.
Varuna looked around, bewildered. In the vast expanse of Svarga, only the massive Amravati City remained—every other city and palace had vanished.
"Brahma Loka?!"
The realization struck him like a thunderbolt. The King of Svarga had already thought of an escape route.
Varuna's eyes brightened, his anxiety easing into understanding. "I understand now!"
Nodding rapidly, he called to his mount, Makara, and urged it toward Amravati City, moving swiftly to carry out his part of the plan.
Meanwhile, Indra stood still, his eyes gazing into the horizon. With a calm, measured motion, he raised his divine bow and pointed it toward the heavens.
In that instant, he drew the bowstring back, and the full moon-shaped string crackled with blue lightning. The electric energy coiled around it, transforming into dozens of lightning arrows.
Whoosh!
With a thunderous release, the arrows shot into the sky, their streaks of blue light like bolts from the gods themselves.
The Svarga shuddered, as the Asuras, already swarming in, rushed forward with unrelenting fury. Their numbers surged like a tidal wave, and leading the charge were the fearsome Asura generals, Nishumbha and Shumbha.
The battle was about to begin.
Nishumbha had wild black hair, his form was encased in dark armor that seemed to pulse with primal energy. His body was massive and sturdy, exuding a raw, ancient power like a beast unleashed from the depths of time.
Shumbha, on the other hand, had piercing blue eyes that glinted coldly, his lean frame deceptively powerful. In his hand, he gripped a crescent-shaped sword, its sharp edge gleaming ominously in the light.
"Is this Svarga?" Nishumbha muttered, his voice rough as he gazed around in awe.
"It's vast... far more spacious than I imagined," he added, scanning the endless expanse. His eyes widened as he took in the sight of the empty, rolling sea of clouds.
"Why is there nothing but clouds?" Nishumbha's voice was laced with confusion.
"No!" Shumbha suddenly interrupted, his sharp eyes narrowing. "Over there, a city!" His cold tone carried the weight of realization. "They've all run away, but there's still one city left. We'll go there!"
Nishumbha's lips twisted into a grin as he laughed heartily. "The Devas are nothing but cowards. It's good they've fled. This place is ours now!" His voice boomed, filling the space with mocking amusement.
The entire Asura legions joined in, their laughter echoing ominously through the clouds, adding to the growing darkness.
Boom!
Suddenly, the sky above the horizon exploded with a brilliant blue light. A pillar of radiant energy shot into the heavens, casting everything in Svarga into chaos. The serene white clouds instantly darkened, turning into ominous black masses, swallowing the light and plunging the realm into shadow.
Varuna, standing beside Amravati City, turned his gaze upward. His eyes filled with awe as he clasped his hands together, bowing deeply.
"Everything else is up to you Indra!" he chanted reverently.
As the black clouds rolled in, they devoured the light, slowly erasing the Asuras' shadows as they fell into the consuming darkness. The sea of clouds trembled violently, and in the distance, the air crackled with energy.
Boom! Boom! Boom!
Thunder rumbled through Svarga, shaking the very foundations of the realm. Lightning tore through the void, and endless bolts of thunder cascaded from the sky like torrents of rain. The air was thick with the sizzling heat of divine power.
Each bolt of lightning struck down, exploding upon impact, tearing into the Asuras with terrifying force. Thunderous Nagas—serpentine beings made of pure lightning—danced in the air, their bodies flashing like streaks of light, amplifying the chaos. The Asuras screamed in pain, their bodies consumed by the relentless bolts of thunder.
Screams echoed through the clouds, the sounds of Asuras scrambling to escape the storm of destruction.
"Run! Quickly!"
"Help me! Please!"
"Spare me! I surrender!"
The Asura legions fell into disarray as they were blasted apart by the divine fury raining down from the heavens, their pleas drowned out by the thunder that echoed through the very heart of Svarga.
Accompanied by screams of agony and terror, more than half of the Asura legions were obliterated in an instant. The remaining ones, paralyzed with fear and unable to flee, were left helpless in the wake of the storm.
"Ah!!!"
In an instant of carelessness, Shumba's thigh was struck by a massive bolt of thunder. The flesh blackened and began to smoke, the smell of burnt meat filling the air. The destructive power of the lightning coursed through his body, searing him from the inside out.
Uh-huh!
With quick reflexes, Shumbha swung his scimitar, severing the blackened flesh from his mount. His heart raced as he realized the intensity of the assault.
"It's the King of Svarga!" Shumbha exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.
He had not expected Indra, the King of Svarga, to remain in Svarga while the Asuras ransacked it.
"I will block these arrows!" Nishumbha's eyes glowed with renewed vigor. "I have the blessing of invulnerability! Let us kill him together!"
A deep, rumbling roar escaped Nishumbha's throat as he struck his chest with both fists. His body expanded in size, turning into a massive beast that blotted out the sky and sun. Lightning arrows rained down upon him, but they seemed to have no effect, dissipating harmlessly against his indomitable form.
Shumbha, seeing this, quickly darted behind Nishumbha for cover, following closely as they charged forward.
In the distance, Indra stood, eyes narrowing as he observed the charging Nishumbha. He tilted his head slightly, a faint flicker of interest in his eyes.
"Is that so?" Indra's voice was cold and deliberate as his gaze lingered on the approaching beast. Blessing? A dangerous thought crossed his mind.
A flicker of light sparked in Indra's eyes. Without hesitation, he pulled his divine bow once more, releasing a volley of arrows. Rolling black clouds descended again, heavier and darker than before. Thunder and lightning crackled through the air, and arrows of pure divine energy sped toward the massive beast.
The lightning rained down upon Nishumbha's form, but it was as if the arrows were mere droplets in a storm. The power of Nishumbha'sinvulnerabilityy shielded him, and the bolts dissipated without even leaving a mark.
"No Astra and Shastra, Divine, demonic, or men can kill me!" Nishumbha roared triumphantly, his voice booming across the battlefield. "You can't defeat me, Indra!"
His voice echoed through the clouds, filled with maddening confidence as he prepared for the next move in this divine confrontation.
---
"No Astra and Shastra, Divine, demonic, or men can kill me!"
Nishumbha's booming voice echoed across the heavens, his colossal figure barreling toward Indra like a living storm. The Asura's every step shook the ground beneath them, confidence radiating with the unyielding arrogance of his supposed invulnerability.
Indra's eyes narrowed. The golden glow of his irises flickered, his expression calm but calculating. Nishumbha's words repeated in his mind like a riddle meant to confound a lesser deity.
This blessing... It's surprisingly simple to unravel.
If No Astra and Shastra couldn't harm him, Indra thought, then the answer was clear: Don't use weapons at all. If the divine and demonic energies offered him immunity, then Svarga, the celestial realm, would serve as his battlefield. That left only the challenge...
A faint smile tugged at the corners of Indra's lips. If only Surya returned, this would be over in an instant.
As these thoughts churned, the air before Indra shimmered with the force of Nishumbha's approach. The Asura's body surged forward, a living wave of destruction. His fist, as large as a mountain peak, swung with enough momentum to sunder the earth.
Boom!
Indra moved with divine precision. The golden light of his Sahsrakavacha armor flared as he slung his bow across his back, raising his arms in readiness. His skin, shimmering like molten gold, shone brighter than the midday sun. Muscles coiled like the Naga kings of the Nagaloka, and with a single motion, he unleashed a punch that rippled through the fabric of reality.
The impact was cataclysmic. Nishumbha was hurled backward, his enormous form crashing into the sea of clouds that stretched across Svarga.
For a moment, silence reigned—broken only by Nishumbha's guttural laughter as he pulled himself up.
"You can't kill me!" he snarled, baring jagged teeth. His voice carried a mocking edge as if daring Indra to try again.
With a roar, Nishumbha lunged forward, hands outstretched, aiming to crush Indra in his grip.
But Indra stood unshaken.
From behind the chaos, another figure emerged—Shumbha. Smaller in stature but no less dangerous, he darted from Nishumbha's shadow. His eyes gleamed with cunning as he leaped into the air, both hands gripping a magic blade that shimmered with an eerie light.
"Attack his knees!" Shumbha roared, descending with the force of a falling star.
The blade flashed as it sliced toward Indra's knees, but before it could connect—
The Sahsrakavacha armor ignited. Bluish-green light blazed outward, and with it came the searing, toxic glow of Halahala. The venom's energy crackled like chained lightning, sending waves of agony through Shumbha's body. His attack faltered, and in his moment of weakness, Indra struck.
A golden foot shot forward, impossibly fast. The air itself roared in protest as the kick connected, sending Shumbha spiraling through the sky.
Boom!
The Asura's body arced like a rainbow, crashing into the distance with a force that rattled the heavens.
Meanwhile, Nishumbha's sneer turned into a pained grimace. Even he was not immune to the poisonous aura radiating from Indra's armor. The briefest touch had sent him recoiling, his immense form staggering backward.
Indra's lips curved into a faint, knowing smile.
"My Sahsrakavacha armor bears the venom of Halahala," he said, his voice calm, yet brimming with divine authority. "Its light alone brings pain. Its touch ensures destruction."
The battlefield stilled, and the Asuras were left writhing in agony. Above it all, Indra stood radiant, his golden figure shining like a beacon of unyielding power.
The Asura before Indra let out a harrowing scream, collapsing onto the ground in agony. Its massive frame trembled as it writhed in pain, unable to withstand the radiant force of Indra's presence.
Indra smiled, a glimmer of satisfaction in his golden eyes. "The venom of Halahala. Even its faintest light causes unbearable pain. A single touch ensures certain poisoning."
He cast a glance at the two Asuras struggling nearby. Neither had even laid a hand on his divine armor, yet both were already incapacitated by the mere radiance of the Halahala's light.
"Not as resilient as Hiranyaksha," Indra remarked, his tone almost dismissive. "Their pain tolerance is disappointing."
Without hesitation, Indra bent down, his hand closing around the spindly calf of one fallen Asura. The creature thrashed weakly but was powerless against the god's overwhelming strength.
As Indra's grip tightened, his form began to shift. His figure expanded, towering and colossal until his size dwarfed the Asura entirely.
Now, Indra stood like a mountain against a mere mound, an elephant before a lion, a tiger looming over a helpless wild dog.
With a roar of effort, Indra swung the Asura's body in a wide arc, wielding it as effortlessly as one might swing a cloak. Left and right, he slammed the flailing creature against the storm-darkened clouds. Each impact reverberated through the heavens, a deafening rumble echoing like a divine drumbeat.
Boom! Boom! Boom!
"This Asura," Indra mused, a grin spreading across his face, "makes a fine weapon and shield. The balance, the weight... it's perfect. I'm getting better at this at the moment."
He chuckled, his booming laughter filling the sky as he swung the Asura like a war hammer, crushing everything in his path. Clouds dispersed in chaos, and the battlefield trembled under Indra's relentless might.
...
The Kshira Sagara stretched endlessly beneath the blazing chariot of the sun. Its dark, abyssal waves churned violently, their frothy peaks glinting under the searing rays of the sun. The celestial chariot, drawn by seven radiant horses, galloped across the stormy waters, each hoofbeat leaving shimmering trails of sea mist in its wake. The reflected brilliance of the sun painted a golden path over the enigmatic black waters.
Surya clung to the edge of the chariot, his usually composed demeanor shaken. He cast nervous glances over his shoulder, his fiery gaze laced with unease.
"Faster, Aruna!" Surya urged, his voice tinged with panic.
Aruna, the God of Dawn, tightened his grip on the reins, spurring the celestial steeds to an even greater speed. The chariot surged forward, a streak of light against the Milk Sea's darkness. At last, their eyes fell upon a figure standing ahead—a silhouette both unexpected and familiar.
"Narada Muni!" Surya exclaimed, relief washing over his golden face.
The celestial sage, cradling his veena, turned abruptly at the sound of his name. His expression froze, caught between recognition and hesitation.
"Ah... Lord Surya," Narada said awkwardly, his eyes darting from the chariot to the abyssal sea around him.
"Thank the heavens!" Surya called out, waving his hand to signal Aruna to halt. The chariot slowed to a graceful stop beside the sage. "Narada Muni, I can't believe you're unharmed!"
Narada offered a nervous chuckle, adjusting his grip on the veena. "Yes, my lord. It's fortunate indeed."
"Quick, get in!" Surya leaned over, extending his hand toward the sage. "We're heading to find Lord Vishnu and plan our next move to rescue Svarga!"
Narada hesitated, but seeing the urgency in Surya's gaze, he allowed himself to be pulled into the chariot. "Narayana Naryan," he murmured reverently as he climbed aboard.
Surya grinned, his relief palpable. "I didn't think you'd escape the Asura legions unscathed! You're truly fast, Narada Muni."
Narada's smile faltered slightly as he settled into the chariot. The memory of his escape lingered, a far cry from the Sun God's heroic assumptions. The truth was far less dignified—when the Asura legions descended, Narada had discreetly slipped away amidst the chaos, avoiding confrontation entirely. It seemed ironic, even laughable, that his retreat had brought him face-to-face with Surya in the middle of the Kshira Sagara when he was deciding where to go.
"Yes, well... I was fortunate," Narada replied, a sheepish grin spreading across his face.
Surya gripped Narada's arm with surprising force, his golden eyes blazing with determination. "Come! We'll find Lord Vishnu, and together, we'll reclaim Svarga!"
Narada winced inwardly at the Sun God's vice-like grip but managed to maintain his genial smile. "Of course. Lord Vishnu will surely have a plan."
As the chariot surged forward once more, Narada cast a fleeting glance back at the Milk Sea, wondering if perhaps his escape from the Asuras had been the easy part after all.
Three figures soared through the celestial skies, carried by the sacred vehicle. Below them, the Milk Sea shimmered endlessly, its dark waves reflecting the divine glow of the heavens. Suddenly, a magnificent golden shrine materialized above the sea, radiating brilliance that seemed to hold countless mysteries and ethereal beauty.
A faint black speck appeared in the distance, growing larger as it approached, its wings flapping with purpose.
"Garuda!"
Aruna, the God of Dawn, was the first to recognize the approaching figure. His voice carried a mix of surprise and joy.
"Brother!"
Garuda, the mighty celestial eagle, also spotted Aruna and called out in astonishment. The two shared a bond deeper than most—they were brothers, hatched from the same eggs laid by Vinata. Aruna, the elder, and Garuda, the younger.
"Garuda!"
Surya clasped his hands together, his radiant eyes filled with hope. "Thank goodness you're here! Hiranyakashipu's boon is quite overwhelming. We need the Lord Vishnu's intervention. Please, ask the Lord to help us defeat Hiranyakashipu!" Surya's voice was fervent, his head bowed in a low prayer.
Garuda's powerful wings stilled as he hovered before the group. A solemn expression crossed his face as he shook his head. "The Lord is in Vaikuntha, just beyond here," Garuda said, gesturing toward the resplendent shrine in the distance. "But He has decreed that He will not intervene. Hiranyakashipu has not yet violated the dharma. You must return."
The weight of his words hung heavy in the air.
"Is there truly no way?" Aruna stepped forward, his hand grasping Garuda's arm. His golden eyes pleaded with his brother. "Garuda, are you certain the Lord will not act?"
Garuda looked at his elder brother with a mix of pity and helplessness. He sighed deeply before replying, "The Lord said… the time has not yet come."
Aruna lowered his gaze with a sigh, his shoulders slumping in resignation. Surya, too, seemed disheartened, his earlier hope dimmed.
But Narada Muni, ever curious and restless, leaned forward eagerly. His eyes sparkled with intrigue as he gazed past Garuda toward the divine abode. Standing on tiptoe, he craned his neck, trying to catch a glimpse of Vaikuntha.
"Narayana Narayana!" Narada exclaimed with a wide grin. "Is that the Lord's new adobe, Vaikuntha? Oh, what grandeur! I haven't been inside yet!"
His excitement provided a stark contrast to the somber mood of the others, his curiosity unshaken even in the face of divine restraint.
Narada Muni's expression shifted to one of surprise as he instinctively raised his foot, ready to leap off the Sun Chariot. But before he could act, a massive golden wing unfurled before him, blocking both his view and his path.
"By the way," Garuda said, his voice steady yet firm, "the Lord has a message for you, Narada Muni. He instructs you to remain with Surya Dev and continue aiding the Devas. When the time comes, you will be called to Vaikuntha."
Garuda curled his lips slightly, his tone tinged with a subtle satisfaction as he lowered his wing. He silently thanked the Lord for sparing him from a trip to Svarga. The thought of encountering Indra again was enough to make his feathers bristle. Narada Muni, on the other hand, was a dependable ally—but under no circumstances could he be allowed into Vaikuntha now.
"Wait, what?!" Narada Muni was stunned, blinking in disbelief.
Surya, his face heavy with disappointment, shook his head. "It seems we have no other choice but to return. Lord Vishnu must have His reasons for this decision."
Turning toward Aruna, Surya gestured resolutely. "Let's go back to Svarga. We must inform the King of this news without delay."
Aruna nodded in understanding, bidding a quick farewell to Garuda before commanding the Sun Chariot forward.
As the radiant chariot surged into motion, Garuda watched his elder brother and Narada Muni depart. He noticed the sage's lingering gaze toward Vaikuntha, his longing palpable even as the distance between them grew.
"Huh~ That's perfect!" Garuda exhaled in relief, a bright smile spreading across his face. He flapped his wings vigorously, the golden light emanating from his feathers shining brilliantly. With Narada Muni bound for Svarga to assist the Devas, Garuda could remain in Vaikuntha, ever close to the Lord.
"Cool!" he thought, his heart soaring as high as his flight.
The Sun Chariot raced across the heavens, its seven horses galloping at divine speed. The sacred vehicle blazed with endless brilliance, piercing through layers of space and cutting through the veil of darkness like the first light of dawn. Its destination: Svarga.
Standing tall on the chariot, Surya peered into the distance. His radiant face was lined with worry, his voice tinged with urgency.
"The Legions are crumbling!" he exclaimed. "Svarga cannot withstand this assault. We must act quickly. Hasn't the King of Svarga already fled to Brahma Loka?"
His panic was evident as the Sun Chariot soared onward, leaving trails of light across the vast cosmic expanse, heading straight for the embattled Svarga.