Chapter 79 Pride and Penance
"Father!" Rishi Durvasa exclaimed, his voice laced with frustration. "I have dedicated my entire life to upholding and maintaining Dharma!" His eyes burned with intensity, reflecting the deep conviction that had guided him for years.
"I admire the wisdom of the Vedas, and indeed, his words carry great insight. But the nature of Indra is difficult to change. He may have transformed outwardly, but the arrogance of the throne of Svarga runs deep. It is not so easily cast aside!" Durvasa's gaze hardened, his voice rising in defiance. "I have seen it with my own eyes."
Rishi Atri's eyes narrowed in response. The air between them crackled with tension, each word drawing them closer to an explosive confrontation. The father and son stood side by side, the wind billowing as the dust held its ground, their chests rising and falling with restrained fury. Their stares were fierce, their energy almost palpable—like gongs and drums resounding in the distance, signaling an impending clash.
The silence stretched, thick and oppressive, as if the very atmosphere was preparing for the storm that could break at any moment.
"Durvasa!" A gentle voice suddenly pierced the tension, soft but steady, breaking the impending storm.
Ansuya appeared, a smile dancing on her lips as she carried a plate of laddus. The sweet aroma filled the air as she stepped forward, her presence a calming force. Her eyes twinkled with warmth as she picked up a sugar ball from the top of the plate with her right hand and offered it to Rishi Atri, her gesture both loving and tender.
Rishi Atri let out a soft hum of approval, taking the Laddus and eating it slowly. The sweetness seemed to ease some of the tension in his features, and he closed his eyes momentarily to savor the treat.
Ansuya turned her attention to Rishi Durvasa, her smile never fading. With a playful glint in her eye, she took a handful of sugar balls and placed them gently into his right hand.
"Mother!" Durvasa protested, his face flushed with annoyance. "I'm not a child anymore!" He glared at his father with mild irritation, his earlier frustration fading under the weight of Ansuya's care and the sweetness of the candy.
Ansuya's smile only widened, her calm and loving demeanor offering a silent reminder that sometimes, sweetness—both literal and metaphorical—was the cure for even the deepest of tensions.
"You will always be a child in my eyes," Ansuya said with a soft smile. "And now you're just throwing a tantrum."
"Mother!" Rishi Durvasa huffed, his frustration evident. "I'm going back to penance!"
With that, he clasped his hands together, bowing slightly to his mother. Then, with a formal nod, he turned toward his father before preparing to leave. The house, with its warm atmosphere and comforting embrace, no longer held his interest. His mind was set on his training, away from the distractions of family.
Ansuya sighed gently, shaking her head. With a wistful look in her eyes, she watched her son head toward the door, a quiet sense of concern settling in her heart.
"As long as a person is pious and persistent enough," she said softly, "they will be transformed, and even people who had met them before will change their past judgments sooner or later."
The words lingered in the air, and Rishi Durvas caught halfway to the door, paused. His mother's wisdom echoed in his mind, and he found himself momentarily stilled.
The Rishi in Disguise, always stern and strong, felt a subtle shift inside. He respected his mother deeply—her loyalty, piety, and wisdom had long been recognized by the Trimurti, making her a rare and precious figure in his life. The quiet reverence he held for her only grew with each word she spoke.
What she said made sense.
Could it be that Indra had indeed changed? Perhaps he had learned to hide his arrogance, disguising his true nature.
"Mother!" he called out, turning back to face her, his voice softer now. "I see! I understand."
He took a deep breath, then clasped his hands together once more and bowed deeply. The weight of his mother's wisdom settled in his heart, and a seed of understanding began to take root.
Ansuya's worried eyes softened as she watched her son's expression shift. She knew him well, and the change was subtle, but she could see it—his pride was beginning to give way to reflection.
"Do you truly understand?" she asked, a quiet concern threading her voice.
"Of course, I understand!" Durvasa smiled, nodding with renewed determination. "What you said makes sense, Mother. I will find a chance to test the King of Svarga's true nature in the future."
Ansuya's heart swelled with a mixture of pride and worry. She knew her son, and though his stubbornness could be trying, she trusted that, in time, he would come to understand the deeper truths of life.
…
The radiant peaks of Kailash stood tall against the sky, their snow-capped summits bathed in the light of the eternal sun. Below, the flower fields bloomed in full glory. Thousands of vibrant mandala flowers stretched as far as the eye could see, each petal a masterpiece of nature's design. The air was sweet with their fragrance, and the colors dazzled like a living painting.
Among the sea of flowers, Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati walked side by side. The tranquility of the moment was palpable, their steps light and harmonious with the surroundings. They exchanged smiles, their bond unspoken yet deeply felt as if the very universe had woven them together in a dance of eternal love.
Behind them, the sacred cow Nandi followed faithfully, his large form casting a gentle shadow on the ground. His hands were clasped in devotion, his eyes filled with quiet joy as he accompanied the divine couple.
Shiva bent down, his gaze soft and affectionate. He picked a single mandala flower from the vibrant sea and held it out to Parvati with a tender smile.
"Parvati," he called softly, his voice carrying the warmth of the cosmos itself.
Parvati's face lit up with a radiant smile, her eyes sparkling with affection. As she reached out to take the flower, her mind was momentarily clouded with the thoughts of the believers—those who had achieved perfection through deep penance. The weight of their devotion was a constant presence in her heart, and for a brief moment, she hesitated, her hand lingering in midair.
Shiva, sensing her inner turmoil, spoke gently, his voice laced with patience. "Their devotion is true."
At his words, Parvati's hesitation melted away. Her eyes cleared, her focus returning to the present moment. With a swift nod, she accepted the flower from Shiva's hand.
In an instant, Parvati's form shimmered and turned into a brilliant golden light, fading into the horizon.
Shiva stood still for a moment, his eyes drifting toward the distant boundary of Vaikuntha. A subtle shift in the atmosphere stirred, and his thoughts seemed to reach beyond the realms of Kailash.
The land beyond was harsh, a stark contrast to the serenity of the flower-filled fields. Lava churned in vast pools, black smoke billowing into the sky. The magma, a mix of deep red and black, spilled over the scorched earth, sending waves of heat into the air. Blazing flames erupted, threatening to consume everything in their path. Three imposing axes stood embedded in the molten landscape, their dark forms symbols of strength and resolve.
"Ōm āim hrīm śrīm klīm!" cried a horse-headed Danava, his voice filled with devotion. He raised his arms high, closing his eyes tightly as he offered his worship.
"Ōm āim hrīm śrīm klīm!" echoed two other figures, their bodies covered in layers of snow-white dirt. They too raised their arms, their voices a chorus of unwavering reverence, as they continued their chant in praise of the goddess.
The sound of their devotion reached the heavens, a testament to the enduring power of Shakti and the divine presence that guided their souls.
The air crackled with the intense power of penance as it surged within the three Danvas. Their forms were entwined with divine energy, a force so potent that it seemed to reverberate through the very fabric of reality.
At that moment, the atmosphere above their heads shifted dramatically. Dark, swirling smoke and thick, oppressive fog gathered together, coalescing into a strikingly beautiful yet terrifying face in the air. Its eyes glowed like burning embers, and its tongue flickered like a flame.
"Hayagriva!" Parvati called, her voice cutting through the heavy air. Her gaze shifted first to the horse-headed Danava, then to the other two figures, their bodies covered in layers of snow-white dirt.
"Madhu! Kaitambha!" she said, each name sharp and commanding. The sound of her voice seemed to jolt the danavas from their trance, snapping them out of their deep penance.
In an instant, the three danavas' eyes flew open, their powerful gazes focusing on the world around them. Hayagriva, the horse-headed Danava, sprang lightly from the great axe with a fluid, graceful motion. His form flipped mid-air, landing with a soft thud as he stood ready, his posture as agile as ever.
Madhu and Kaitambha followed suit, their bodies descending gracefully from the axe blades as the three rays of golden light enveloped them. The light healed their fatigued forms, mending the wear and tear of their intense penance.
"Your penance is complete," Parvati announced, her voice carrying a sense of urgency. "Now, tell me, what blessings do you seek?"
Hayagriva, clasped his hands together in reverence, a gleam of determination in his eyes. He took a step forward, his movements deliberate and commanding.
"I wish to live forever!" he proclaimed, his voice resounding with strength.
The air grew still, but a cold echo rippled out in all directions, the reverberations of Parvati's stern refusal.
"No!" she replied sharply, her voice tinged with divine authority. "Life and death are the natural laws of the universe. No being, no force, can grant immortality."
Hayagriva bowed his head slightly, a flicker of understanding passing through his eyes. "Is that so?" he murmured, reflecting on her words.
"In that case," he continued, his voice heavy with resolve, "I wish that only beings exactly like me could defeat me!"
Parvati's gaze turned upward, her presence immense in the sky above. The great shadow of her form swirled as it shifted to face the brothers—Madhu and Kaitambha. The aura that surrounded them was unmistakable, the familiar energy of Vishnu emanating from them. The realization struck her like a thunderbolt.
Is it them? she thought, her heart racing with sudden recognition.
The connection to Devi Lakshmi's words during their last quarrel flashed through her mind—it must be them!
"What kind of blessing do you seek?" Parvati asked again, her voice both soft and commanding.
Madhu and Kaitambha whispered to one another, their voices low but purposeful. After a moment of quiet discussion, they spoke in unison, their words clear and unwavering: "We wish to die only by our choice."
Above them, Parvati's eyes flickered with a knowing intensity. She looked to the sky, then back down at the Danavas, her voice resonating with divine power.
"As you wish."
Her words rippled through the air, echoing like a sacred chant that reverberated across the earth, each repetition lingering longer than the last. The divine energy of her blessing seemed to stretch into the very fabric of existence, causing a shift in the atmosphere so profound that even those in Svarga noticed the disturbance. A strange feeling rippled across the realms as if the earth itself was attuned to Parvati's decree.
In an instant, three beams of golden light fell from the skies, their brilliance blinding yet gentle, weaving through the air before merging into the bodies of the three Danavas. The light enveloped them, sealing Parvati's blessing into their very being.
"Success," Hayagriva, said with a satisfied grin. He tossed his head back, the long mane flowing with the motion. "With this boon, I can finally begin the next phase of our plan."
He stood taller now, his presence amplified by the divine blessing that coursed through him, a sense of unstoppable purpose igniting within his heart. The plan was set into motion.
---
Chapter 80 Hayagriva's Ambition
"Hahahaha!" Hayagriva's lips twisted into a sly grin.
His hooves, shining with a radiant light, morphed into hands that gracefully stroked the flowing mane of the horse's head, now resting behind him. In this world, he alone possessed the rare and powerful form— the head of a horse and the body of a human. It was a singular existence, a marvel that set him apart from all others.
Unique. With his boon, one might even say he had been blessed with immortality, an endless cycle of life in disguise. Yet, despite all of this…
Hayagriva was far from satisfied.
His ambitions were vast—greater, far greater than even those of the former Asura Kings Hiranyaksha and Hiranyakashipu.
"Next, I will seize the Vedas," he murmured inwardly, a gleam of determination flashing in his eyes.
The Vedas—within their ancient verses lay the supreme wisdom he needed. The wisdom that could help him survive this cycle of Kalpas, transcend each one, and endure the countless others that lay ahead. He desired to claim this power, to live beyond the constraints of time, until the distant future stretched out before him, achieving true immortality even if the universe was destroyed in the future.
As Hayagriva schemed, his thoughts turned toward the necessary steps to obtain the Vedas.
"To claim the Vedas, I must first journey to the Brahma loka," he reasoned. "But to reach the Brahma Realm... I require the help of these two."
His gaze shifted, and his large horse eyes narrowed onto the two Asuras who lay slumped in the dirt, their bodies stained with white dust.
Madhu and Kaitambha.
These two were no ordinary Asuras. Born from Vishnu himself, they carried the divine essence of their creator, and through their help, he could enter the Brahma Loka.
Madhu and Kaitambha, unaware of the looming plans, were filled with a sense of joy, unaware of the darker fate that awaited them.
"Brother, with this boon, we can rule the Patalaloka. Once we return, all the Asuras will bow to us," Kaitambha, the younger brother, exclaimed with uncontainable excitement.
Madhu, his older sibling, grinned widely.
"Exactly, second brother. Now that our training is complete, the time has come for us to unite our strength. First, we'll kill Hiranyaksha, then imprison Hiranyakashipu." He paused, his eyes gleaming with ambition. "We'll defeat them, seize control of the Patalaloka, and from there, we'll launch an assault on the Svarga."
"With this, we'll prove 'that person' wrong for casting us out, for banishing us to the Asuras. We'll make him regret his decision and pay for his actions!" Madhu laughed wildly, his joy echoing through the air.
The two brothers, born from the earwax of Vishnu himself, had been granted divine strength. Yet, instead of feeling gratitude, their hearts burned with resentment. Cast aside by Vishnu and sent to the depths of Pataloka, they swore vengeance for what they saw as a betrayal.
Vishnu had believed that exile to Pataloka would diminish their power, but instead, it became their crucible. Years of grueling survival and relentless ambition had only fueled their strength, honing them into unstoppable forces.
Now, with their powers fully perfected, they were ready to conquer Pataloka and, eventually, Svarga—intending to upend the balance Triloka and force Vishnu to fight them.
"Two fools," Hayagriva muttered to himself, listening to the brothers' boastful plans. A dark smile curled across his face.
What kind of Asura King do they think they are? He thought with a smirk. The true path to power lies in the knowledge of the Vedas, not fighting over being of King of Triloka.
This was the perfect opportunity to manipulate them—use their ambition to further their own goals.
"Since you hate the Preserver of Brahman so much—I have a way for you to exact your revenge," Hayagriva spoke slowly, his voice smooth as silk, as he made his approach toward Madhu. He shook his head, and his horse mane fluttered with an almost regal elegance.
"What is it?" Madhu and Kaitambha's eyes locked onto Hayagriva, their curiosity piqued.
The Horsehead Asura grinned, a knowing smile crossing his face. He raised a finger, slowly moving it between the three of them before pointing it toward the sky, a gesture full of promise.
"Snatch the Vedas! The Vedas are the very source of wisdom in the universe!" Hayagriva's voice was filled with conviction.
"Without the Vedas, all growth will cease. The world will fall into silence, and darkness will return." He paused for a moment, letting the weight of his words sink in. "When the time comes, the protector of the world will regret abandoning you."
Hayagriva's eyes glinted as he spoke, knowing well that these two brothers, born from Vishnu, possessed tremendous power, perhaps even rivaling his own. But Hayagriva was clever—a master manipulator. If he could trick them into aiding him, the results would be far greater than any solo effort could achieve.
Kaitambha's eagerness was evident as his eyes lit up at the mention of the Vedas. Madhu, however, seemed more cautious, his expression darkening with doubt.
"The world will be destroyed? What's the point of that?" Madhu clicked his tongue. "Why not head to the Patalaloka and enjoy as Kings rather than destroying everything?"
Hayagriva's horse-like eyes narrowed slightly in thought. This one, Madhu, was proving to be more difficult to sway than Kaitambha.
With a subtle grin, Hayagriva walked closer to Madhu, clapping him on the shoulder with a reassuring smile. "You can't think like that, brother. Stealing the Vedas is merely a means to an end. What we truly seek is eternal life!"
He gestured grandly as he spoke, his voice rising with fervor.
"The Vedas contain the supreme wisdom, the key to surviving the great calamities that threaten us! Once we obtain them, we will be beyond the reach of death itself."
Madhu's expression softened, the allure of immortality clouding his earlier hesitation.
"When the time comes," Hayagriva continued, "the three of us will be invincible. We will be the new Tridevas of the world, the Trimurti. I will stand as the God of Destruction, and you..." He looked at the brothers with a gleam in his eye, "...the remaining two positions are yours to claim."
Madhu's eyes widened, his lips curling into a smile as he imagined the grandeur of Hayagriva's words. His breath quickened as his imagination took flight, visualizing the immense power, the supreme wisdom, and the endless possibilities that awaited them.
"Good!" Madhu finally exclaimed, his voice filled with anticipation.
The three of them stood together, surrounded by the searing heat of the magma pool. The lava bubbled and churned beneath their feet, sending up waves of black smoke. Madhu's fist clenched tightly as he considered the future; his determination set.
Hayagriva stood tall, his mane flying in the hot wind, his pride evident in his stance. He reached up to stroke his mane, savoring the moment. A triumphant smile curved his lips.
"Ah, yes... I am the smartest being alive," he murmured, his voice dripping with quiet confidence. "Every step, every decision has led to this. The future is mine to command, woven meticulously by my unparalleled intellect."
…
In Svarga, the Devas had gathered in the grand palace of the King of Svarga. A shimmering light mirror materialized in the center of the sacred space, casting an ethereal glow throughout the room.
The Adityas—Vayu, the Wind Dev; Agni, the Fire Dev; Varuna, the Water Dev; and Surya, the Sun Dev—circled Indra, their expressions tense and filled with growing anxiety. Their eyes, wide with panic, fixated on the three dark figures that slowly emerged within the mirror's light.
In an instant, the three figures vanished.
The air was thick with tension as the Devas exchanged nervous glances. Fear and confusion clouded their faces, and the panic was palpable.
Here we go again. Another Asura had succeeded in their penance, and now, there were three of them.
"Three Asuras have completed their penance. What are we supposed to do now?!" Surya's voice trembled as he pretended to keep calm, his fists clenched in frustration.
"Should we strike now, while they haven't yet taken control of the Patalaloka?" Vayu suggested with a nervous edge in his voice.
At Vayu's words, Indra shot him a disapproving glance. Vayu, you fool!
Varuna, remained silent, his gaze distant as if lost in thought.
Agni, ever restless, shifted uneasily. Their last attempt to reclaim the Patalaloka had ended in a humiliating defeat. Hiranyakashipu had crushed them, capturing every last one of them. The defeat had been so complete that the Devas were left embarrassed, their pride shattered. Agni's itch for vengeance burned, but he couldn't shake the sting of their prior humiliation.
"How about I lead the heavenly army... and strike again?" Agni proposed, a flicker of determination crossing his face.
Indra's expression hardened at Agni's words, and he remained silent for a long moment, his mind weighing the situation. These three Asuras were no ordinary foes. The thought of engaging them in battle seemed absurd. Fighting them is impossible.
At that moment, Indra realized that the best course of action was to retreat. Indra recalled the Arthashastra—"When facing a foe whose strength exceeds yours, retreat is the wisest course."
Without another word, Indra turned on his heel, his posture exuding authority as he strode forward, his golden armor gleaming beneath the temple's light. His red cloak billowed behind him like a storm cloud, signaling his departure with commanding force.
The Devas stared in stunned silence as Indra walked away.
"My mount Airavata is in Vaikuntha," he muttered, eyes narrowing with determination. "And I'm in no mood to wage another war again. Now that the Asuras have arrived, it's time for a well-deserved break."
With that, Indra gave his final command.
"Let's go! We're heading to the Brahma Loka to meet the Lord Brahma!"
And so, with Indra leading the charge, the Devas made their retreat, their resolve wavering in the face of yet another looming threat.
---
Chapter 81 Vyuhas and Vimanas
"Meet Lord Brahma?!"The Devas stood frozen, their expressions a mixture of confusion and disbelief. Eyes wide, they glanced at one another, unsure if they had heard Indra correctly.
The King of Svarga, with his dramatic cloak swishing behind him, had just appeared as if he were preparing to lead an army across the Patalaloka. Yet now, he was talking about heading to Brahma Loka instead?
"This... this plan isn't half-bad," Surya muttered to himself, a thoughtful frown on his face as he turned to the Devas around him. "Wouldn't it be better if we just go directly instead of all this... fanfare?"
"Indeed," Agni agreed, his voice laced with a hint of reluctance. "It would be rather humiliating to just go to Satyaloka as soon Asuras got some boons like this."
Vayu looked contemplative for a moment. "Then perhaps we should prepare, take a couple of shots when they invade Svarga, and then make a dramatic and heroic exit with the promise to reclaim Svarga sooner or later? We can't leave without fighting."
His suggestion was practical—after all, the last time they had retreated in shame, they'd learned the value of being prepared for any outcome. This time, they hoped to act more swiftly and decisively.
Indra, now standing with his back straight, turned around with a look of righteous indignation. "Ahem! Ahem! What are you all talking about?"
His voice carried with a tone of authority, one that left no room for further discussion.
"We are simply going to ask advice from Lord Brahma!" Indra continued, his expression stern. "I need to inquire about the origins of these three Asuras. It's a normal exchange! Nothing more, nothing less!"
He turned his head slightly, casting a sideward glance as he raised a hand in defense. "Do not slander my actions!"
Agni blinked, his mouth hanging open in surprise at Indra's sudden defensiveness. Then, he quickly nodded, as if coming to an understanding.
"The Svarga has recently trained a new army of Gandharvas," Agni added, his tone more relaxed now. "It would be an excellent opportunity to bring them to Brahma Loka as well. Perhaps Devi Saraswati could inspect them and teach them some new vyuhas while we're there."
Indra's eyes gleamed with approval, and the Devas nodded in agreement, their mood shifting. At least they now had a new plan to focus on.
With that, the group began to prepare for their journey, their minds already shifting from fear to strategy. It seemed the King of Svarga had a few more moves left to make in this tense game.
Over the years, the Gandharvas had flourished in the heavenly realm, their numbers multiplying and expanding with each passing generation. Their descendants had become so numerous that the Gandharvas had doubled in strength several times over. It was from this growing population that the new armies of Gandharvas emerged.
Surya, hearing this, suddenly understood the situation.
"Since it's a review, I'll continue leading the way for these Gandharvas. It's perfect timing—the God of Craftsman has just finished building a new warship!" Surya said with a nod.
"In that case, I'll come along as well!" Vayu declared, his tone filled with enthusiasm.
As the Devas spoke, an air of excitement began to take over them. This felt strikingly familiar—just like when they had once gone to the Earth Realm for the gold-making bed. The only difference this time was that they were heading to Brahma Loka, and there would be no Asuras to block their path.
"Alright, prepare your armies immediately!" Indra commanded, a wide smile spreading across his face. "Let's head to Brahma Loka for some training!"
With a shared sense of purpose, the Devas dispersed to gather their forces. Meanwhile, the sacred chariots began to mobilize, their hooks dropping down one after another to latch onto the cities. The preparations for their journey to Brahma Loka were underway.
"Just move the entire cities there?" Surya asked, his voice tinged with satisfaction.
"Yes, that's the plan," Indra confirmed, his smile unwavering.
The Celestial Soldiers worked swiftly. The newly trained 200,000-strong army had already assembled. The soldiers were stationed on sacred chariots, each armed with sacred spears and bows. They moved in perfect synchrony, rehearsing their formations and drills.
One by one, the Gandharva warriors leaped from the sacred chariots, spinning, jumping, and executing elaborate swings. Some posed as though ready to shoot arrows, while others synchronized their movements to the rhythmic, enchanting music of Svarga.
Their flawless performance lasted for several moments, captivating all who watched. Of course, Indra only spared a glance, his attention not held for long. What truly caught his eye, however, was something far more impressive: a massive warship looming behind the Gandharva army.
An immense and awe-inspiring vessel—Vimanas—towered above them, a symbol of power and grandeur.
The Vimanas was an extraordinary sight—an immense, seven-tiered warship, its surface gleaming like gold. Countless divine weapons—swords, bows, and arrows—were strategically placed upon it. The vessel was connected by ninety-nine smaller warships, linked by divine chains and adorned with divine pillars. The entire structure resembled a floating palace, a testament to celestial engineering.
"What is this?" Indra asked in awe, his voice tinged with both surprise and curiosity. "What sort of chain-link construction is this?!"
He eyed the Vimanas, puzzled. "This warship can't possibly be vulnerable to fire, can it?"
At that moment, Surya stood proudly, his chest puffed with satisfaction. He lifted his chin and spoke with confidence.
"I've learned from my past mistakes," Surya said, his tone brimming with pride. "I specifically requested Vishvakarma to design this enormous ship—Vimanas. It's built from ninety-nine warships, each interlocked and connected. Powered by our chakras, it's unbelievably fast and indestructible."
He gestured towards the ship with a gleam in his eyes. "No Asura can ever catch up to it, and none can break through it."
"And," Surya added with a sly grin, "I've embedded some of my divine sparks within it, so it can shine brightly at any moment. What do you think?"
"Absolutely magnificent!" Agni exclaimed, his eyes wide as he gazed upon the warship.
"Stunning!" Vayu nodded in approval, his voice full of admiration.
Even Varuna could hardly contain his amazement. "This is the most beautiful killing machine I've ever laid eyes on."
Indra, too, stood in stunned silence as he gazed up at the imposing vessel. He had to admit—it was nothing short of spectacular.
The Vimanas was a work of art, a perfect blend of elegance and power. The ninety-nine warships formed a magnificent, palace-like structure, with sharp, angular features that exuded a sense of iron-blooded authority. The golden exterior shimmered, radiating the brilliance of the sun, yet it carried an understated grace, like a swan gliding serenely across a clear blue sky, surrounded by clouds of light.
"Such a magnificent creation is truly worthy of the Devas!" Surya laughed, clearly pleased with himself.
Indra, still marveling at the ship's beauty, nodded. "Indeed, it's an extraordinary sight."
With that, he rose into the air, motioning for the Devas to follow. "Come, let us take a closer look!"
The Vimanas was seven stories high, each layer more impressive than the last. The top level housed a single massive warship—golden and green, it shone with a brilliant luster that could rival the sun itself. As Indra landed on the upper deck, he couldn't help but smile at the sight before him. It was everything he had expected and more.
The top floor of Vimanas mirrored the palace hall of Svarga perfectly, an exact replica, down to the smallest detail.
Indra couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration. Surya My father-in-law's craftsmanship is unparalleled! he thought with a hint of pride.
He stepped forward, drawing his golden sword with a flourish. With a wide grin, he ascended the throne, his posture regal as he waved his arm with bold enthusiasm.
"Onward!" Indra declared, his voice booming with confidence. "Let us meet the Lord!"
As soon as the words left his lips, the Devas stirred, responding to the call. The six lower levels of the Vimanas were quickly filled with celestial warriors, each preparing for the journey ahead.
Boom!
With a thunderous sound, the Vimanas, composed of ninety-nine interconnected warships, began to ascend. The massive vessel rose into the sky, surrounded by a soft, ethereal mist of white clouds, its vast form cutting through the heavens.
Below, the Gandharva warriors stood proudly on their sacred chariots, which also lifted into the air, following the Vimanas in perfect formation.
At this moment, all the Devas joined hands, their voices raised in unison as they praised the divine.
"Om Brahmane Namah! Om Aim Sarasvatyai Namah!"
The chants echoed through the air, reverberating across the skies.
As the enormous Vimanas soared toward the Brahma Loka, the sound of praise filled the heavens. Behind it, the sacred chariots, laden with Gandharvas, surged forward with remarkable speed, entering the realm of Brahma.
Meanwhile, in the Brahma Loka.
Brahma, startled, turned his attention to the sky as the colossal warship appeared without warning. His heart skipped a beat, his mind racing to make sense of this unexpected arrival.
It wasn't until his eyes landed on the army of Gandharvas following the Vimanas that he realized who it was. Indra and the Devas… but why are they here with the entire Svargalooka?
Brahma blinked, confusion clouding his mind. His thoughts immediately went back to the three Asuras Parvati had blessed earlier. Could it be that the Asuras have attacked Svarga so soon?
His brow furrowed in thought, unsure of the Devas' intentions.
---
Chapter 82 Divine Arsenal
Brahma's eyes drifted down to Svarga, the heavenly realm below. White clouds floated lazily, moving in harmony with the tranquil atmosphere. Majestic temples and sparkling palaces gleamed with divine light, while Yakshas and Gandharvas moved gracefully, embodying the perfect order of the realm.
Brahma blinked, his curiosity growing. Something felt off. He focused his divine sight, scanning the area for any sign of disturbance. But all he saw were the peaceful clouds and radiant buildings. Svarga remained calm, untouched by any unrest.
"Asuras?" he muttered to himself, puzzled. "Not even a trace of them in Svarga Loka."
His brows furrowed, the absence of conflict perplexing him. If Svarga remained undisturbed, why had they come here? What was their purpose?
As Brahma contemplated, the Vimanas descended closer to his realm. Indra and his entourage emerged from the topmost tier of the celestial warship, their figures luminous against the golden light. They hovered in the air, hands folded in reverence, before addressing their creator.
"Lord Brahma!" Indra called out, his voice carrying both reverence and pride. "The army has completed its training in Svarga. We owe our success to your teachings over these past years. Today, we have come to present our progress and humbly seek your advice against the upcoming attack from the Asuras."
Brahma's expression softened slightly, though his curiosity lingered. Indra's words were courteous, but his arrival still felt unexpected.
Without hesitation, Indra raised his hand, summoning his divine spear, Amogha, which gleamed with golden brilliance. He pointed it forward with authority, the spear's tip crackling with divine energy.
A flash of lightning erupted from the spear, streaking across the skies like a command. At once, the Gandharvas moved. Driving their sacred chariots and celestial ships, they began to maneuver in disciplined formations, their movements fluid yet precise, each one a testament to their rigorous training.
Brahma watched as the fleet passed by the celestial realm of Brahma Loka, the golden light of their vessels illuminating the heavens. Despite his lingering doubts, he found himself silently admiring the display of unity and power.
Atop the sacred chariot, the Gandharva soldiers moved with grace and precision, each showcasing their mastery of divine martial arts. Sacred spears thrust through the air with a deep, resonant hum. Shields gleamed as they deflected imaginary strikes, their surface reflecting the light like polished mirrors. Swords cut through the air in swift arcs, their blades flashing like lightning. Bows were drawn, and arrows flew with precision, each shot executed with perfect coordination. Every movement was flawless, a testament to their rigorous training and celestial skill.
On the divine ship that followed, ranks of Gandharva soldiers stood on either side, their spears gleaming under the golden light. Alongside them, other Gandharvas played veenas and drums, their music resonating with divine energy, uplifting the morale of the army and enhancing their coordination.
Brahma, seated on his divine lotus, watched the spectacle unfold. His four faces revealed a rare moment of astonishment, each expression reflecting his thoughts as they worked in unison. For a brief moment, he was caught off guard, his lips parting slightly in wonder.
"This... is for me to see," he murmured, realization dawning upon him.
Beside him, Devi Saraswati blinked her luminous eyes, her beauty rivaling the celestial glow of the performance. Noticing Brahma's surprise, a soft, amused smile graced her lips. The sight of her husband's astonishment filled her with quiet delight.
As the music swelled, a voice broke through the harmony. Surya, the Sun God, stepped forward, his radiant aura casting long shadows.
"The Vimanas can absorb our divine chakra and channel it outward," he said, his tone both thoughtful and eager. "Shall we demonstrate its strength? Perhaps... twice?"
His suggestion sparked immediate excitement among the Devas. Their eyes lit up, curiosity and enthusiasm shining through.
"Brilliant idea!" Vayu chimed in, his energy contagious.
"Indeed!" Agni added, his fiery disposition unmistakable. "This is the Craftsman God's latest creation, infused with stardust from the very essence of Surya. We must test its power!"
"It could prove invaluable against the Asura army," Varuna remarked, his normally calm demeanor giving way to anticipation. For once, even he seemed eager to partake in the display.
Indra, standing at the forefront, couldn't hide his curiosity. His divine spear, Amogha, rested lightly in his grip, as though waiting to be put to use. He glanced toward the massive Vimanas, its golden tiers gleaming like the crown jewel of Svarga.
"Yes," he said finally, his voice steady but tinged with excitement. "Let us see the full might of this celestial warship."
The Devas murmured their agreement, their collective anticipation growing. The Vimanas, the pride of the Svarga, were about to unleash its divine power. All eyes turned toward the vessel, eager to witness the spectacle that would soon unfold.
The celestial warship, the Vimanas, was the latest marvel crafted by Vishvakarma, the divine architect. It was a weapon of unparalleled brilliance, designed for the Devas' defense but never before tested. Today, in the safety of Brahma Loka, they had the perfect opportunity to unleash its power.
"Excellent!" Indra exclaimed, his commanding voice cutting through the air. "Let's test the might of this warship!"
The other Devas murmured in agreement, their divine energy buzzing with excitement. Indra raised his hand, signaling the start of the demonstration. He, too, was eager to see the potential of Vishvakarma's masterpiece.
"Follow me," Surya said with a bright grin. "From the top floor, we can channel our power into the Vimanas and control its full potential."
Indra and the Devas soared back to the Vimanas, their movements swift and graceful. Inside, they ascended to the highest level of the celestial vessel, where a grand throne awaited them. Each Deva took their seat, divine energy coursing through their hands as they channeled their power into the ship's core.
Even Brahma and Devi Saraswati, seated at a distance, watched with keen interest. The air buzzed with anticipation.
"What are they planning?" Saraswati murmured, her curiosity mirrored in Brahma's thoughtful expression.
"I'll go first!" Vayu declared eagerly. Without waiting for approval, he surged his divine power into the ship.
The effect was immediate. A powerful wind began to stir around the Vimanas, growing in intensity with each passing moment. What started as a soft breeze quickly transformed into a raging storm, the air crackling with energy. The storm condensed, forming an arrow of concentrated wind—a shimmering projectile that pulsated with destructive power.
With a sharp whistle, the wind arrow shot forward, its velocity increasing exponentially. First, it transformed into the shape of a white horse galloping through the air, then shifted into the sleek form of an antelope. Finally, with a deafening roar, it struck its target in the far distance, exploding with such force that it sent shockwaves rippling through the void.
Suddenly, a sharp sound like tearing silk filled the air. The void itself split open, and four massive hands appeared, gripping the edges of the tear and forcing it wider. A passage began to form, glowing ominously.
From the rift emerged Hayagriva, his equine head peeking cautiously into Brahma Loka. His eyes scanned his surroundings, his deep voice murmuring, "Where is this...?"
Before he could finish, the violent gusts from Vayu's unleashed power slammed into him with terrifying force.
"Ahhh!!!" Hayagriva bellowed, his voice echoing as he was thrown back into the void, the winds chasing him with unrelenting fury.
The Devas exchanged wide-eyed looks of astonishment, while Brahma and Saraswati stared in stunned silence. The Vimanas' power had not only pierced the heavens but disrupted the barriers of reality itself.
"What incredible might," Indra whispered, gripping his divine spear tighter. "This warship... it is truly a creation of the divine."
The atmosphere buzzed with exhilaration and unease as the Devas began to comprehend the extent of their celestial weapon's power. The Vimanas, though awe-inspiring, were also a force capable of altering the very fabric of existence.
In the periphery of his vision, Hayagriva caught a flash of movement—a massive black arrow streaking through the air above him. Moments later, a deafening explosion rang out, like the clash of Svarga with the earth itself. Wild gusts of wind erupted, scattering in every direction.
The cold, biting wind struck him with such force that Hayagriva's mane whipped violently in the air. His eyes widened in surprise and astonishment as he tried to make sense of the overwhelming scene before him.
The celestial army stretched out before him, gleaming and vast—an endless sea of warriors, arranged in row after row, so densely packed they seemed almost innumerable.
Dong, dong, dong...
The rhythmic pounding of veenas and the resonating beats of drums filled the air, their sounds merging into a thunderous war chant that reverberated throughout the heavens.
But what truly struck fear into Hayagriva's heart was the colossal golden spaceship floating just ahead of the army. The very same ship from which the black wind arrow had been fired. It gleamed with an ominous light, a symbol of power, unlike anything he had encountered.
Could it be? Hayagriva thought, his breath quickening. Have they discovered my plan?
His mind raced, his thoughts turning dark. Have they prepared an entire army to ambush me here?
His body began to tremble with cold sweat, his mane still fluttering wildly in the relentless wind.
"Quickly!" he shouted, voice urgent. "Let's move!"
Behind him, Madhu and Kaitambha urged him forward. The two of them shoved him from behind, pushing him with all their strength. Hayagriva stumbled but regained his footing just in time to step forward, crossing the space and entering Brahma Loka.
Whoosh!
The fabric of reality seemed to tear apart as they slipped into the sacred realm. In an instant, the three of them materialized inside Brahma Loka.
A chill swept over them, and Kaitambha shuddered. "Why is it so cold here?" he muttered, his eyes darting around in confusion.
Turning around, he froze. A massive black hurricane loomed behind them, swirling with terrifying force.
"Why are the Devas here?!" Madhu exclaimed, his eyes wide with disbelief as he stared at the celestial army arrayed before them.
The Devas, watching from their golden Vimanas, couldn't help but smile at the sight of the three intruders.
"This is truly remarkable!"
"As expected from the Vishvakarma, his creations are unparalleled!"
"Indeed, and with my divine chakra added, it can only be a masterpiece," Varuna boasted a sense of pride in his voice.
As he spoke, the Water God's divine power surged into the Vimanas.
"I'm ready!" Varuna declared, his tone eager.
In the Vimanas, invisible waves of water spread outward, rippling across the space in an instant. But then, everything fell eerily still.
"Strange, nothing is happening!" Vayu observed, his voice laced with surprise.
"Yeah, what's going on?" Sulie added, clearly puzzled.
Varuna frowned, sensing his divine power had dissipated without effect.
Had his chakra been wasted?
"Is it broken?" he muttered, his brow furrowing in concern.
Indra, too, appeared confused. He glanced at Surya.
"Didn't Surya ask the Vishvakarma for an operating manual for each deva?" Indra remarked with an air of disbelief. How could it be so difficult to operate?
"Who cares?" Agni interjected, his impatience evident. "It's my turn now!"
With a grin, Agni's divine power erupted, flowing into the Vimanas like a torrent of flame.
Boom!
In that instant, a light mirror appeared before the Devas, its surface shimmering with ethereal brilliance. Three red dots blinked ominously on the mirror, casting a strange glow across the room.
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