Chapter 94 Yoga Nindra
Indra and Rishi Dadhichi pressed on, their journey through Kailash feeling more like a never-ending circle.
Kailash is so vast, and still, I can't find a place... Indra sighed inwardly. Why is it so hard to find a quiet spot where I can bask in the sun with a bit of shade and meditate?
This sacred place, full of life and energy, seemed endless, yet there was nowhere for him to practice his asceticism in peace. The frustration simmered within him.
"Why are there so many new paths here?" Dadhichi muttered, brow furrowed as his eyes traced the tangled trails winding through the forest.
Indra glanced over, one eyebrow lifting. "New paths?"
The Rishi pointed ahead, his voice laced with surprise. "Look at this—these tracks weren't here before."
They continued walking along the path, the dense forest enveloping them on either side. The air was thick with the scent of earth and growth, the trees towering above like silent guardians. Eventually, the forest gave way to a clearing.
What appeared before them was a tranquil, open space—free from the clutter of life, bathed in the warm embrace of the sun. The ground was smooth and bare, with not a single weed or shrub in sight. The sunlight fell directly onto the ground, bathing the entire area in a golden glow.
In the center of the clearing lay a massive boulder, pure white as snow. Its size was enough to comfortably accommodate two people side by side, and its surface glistened like polished marble, reflecting the sunlight in a stunning display.
Indra's eyes lit up with recognition. He quickly stepped forward, reaching out to gently touch the stone. The sensation was remarkable—smooth, cool, and perfectly flat. It felt like the ideal surface for meditation—soft yet firm, much like a bed made from the finest materials in Svarga. He could already imagine how it would feel lying there in peace.
"This is perfect!" Indra exclaimed, his voice filled with satisfaction. "This is exactly what I need for my ascetic practice."
Turning to Dadhichi, he added, "Please, don't disturb me while I meditate here."
"Of course Indra," Dadhichi agreed with a bow, his thoughts a mixture of respect and curiosity. If the King of Svarga desires this stone for his penance, perhaps he will meditate here for hundreds of years, holding it up as part of his ascetic practice.
The Rishi's admiration grew as he thought of the King's strength and resolve. After a brief pause, he clasped his hands together and excused himself, retreating quietly from the clearing.
Now alone, Indra turned his attention back to the stone.
"What a wonderful place," he murmured. Gently knocking on the boulder, he lay down upon it, positioning himself comfortably on his side. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy above, casting a dappled pattern of light and shadow across the stone's surface.
With his right elbow bent and supporting his head, Indra's right leg extended straight, while his left leg was raised slightly, forming a natural curve—almost like an arch. The position reminded him of Vishnu, the protector of the world, often seen meditating in a similar repose. It's probably the most comfortable way to meditate, as I've seen him do it. I should learn from this.
Indra allowed himself a moment of quiet, the serenity of the place seeping into his very being. This is truly the perfect place for meditation... But as his thoughts wandered, a soft sigh escaped his lips. However, something still feels missing...
He closed his eyes slowly, allowing his breath to slow and deepen. His mind quieted, slipping into a meditative trance. Gradually, his body relaxed, and the stillness of the world around him seemed to embrace him. He began to feel the steady accumulation of shakti and the slow building of strength as he entered his deep meditative sleep.
…
In Svarga, the banquet had concluded, and the Devas gathered in a chamber to discuss matters of great importance.
"To counter the Asuras, the King of Svarga has gone to Kailash to perform penance," Vayu spoke first, his voice steady.
"The three Asuras are incredibly powerful," Varuna added, his tone somber. "Indra may need to undergo a prolonged period of ascetic practice."
At this, the other Devas nodded in understanding.
"With elder brother away, we must address the issue of rainfall on Earth," Varuna continued, his voice deepening with resolve.
The Devas in the room exchanged knowing glances. They had only just realized why Vayu and Varuna had abruptly left the banquet earlier.
It wasn't uncommon for a Deva to be summoned by rishis or devotees during such events, but it was rare for two powerful figures like Vayu and Varuna to leave together. At the time, they had assumed that the Wind and Water Devas simply didn't care for banquets.
Now, the truth was clear. The absence of the King of Svarga had left a gap that needed filling. The affairs of the heavens must be tended to in his absence.
"Since big brother is not here to manage things, someone must take charge," Agni, the Fire Deva, said, his voice commanding. "What do you think of Surya?"
There was a pause as the Devas considered Agni's suggestion. One by one, they nodded in agreement.
"Yes, that's right!" Vayu and Varuna said in unison.
"I agree as well!" added Soma.
"Then it is decided!" The atmosphere in the room shifted, and Surya was entrusted with overseeing Svarga's affairs in the King's absence.
Surya stood tall. His divine garments shimmered in gold, and the radiant golden sun disk on his chest glowed brightly, casting a faint light around him. A warmth radiated from his very being, reminiscent of the sun itself.
"Very well," Surya said, his voice both powerful and regal. "I will handle the matters of Svarga from here on."
He stood before the gathered Devas, a commanding presence. He cast a glance around the room, his expression solemn but confident. Then, just as he was about to proceed, the door suddenly burst open, and the Gandharva soldiers rushed in, their faces frantic.
"Urgent news!" Chitrasena informed. "The Asuras are coming!"
The once peaceful atmosphere shattered like glass, as the air around them seemed to thicken with tension. The Devas exchanged startled glances, their faces instantly paling.
Surya's majestic expression faltered, his mouth falling open in shock. "What?" he murmured, disbelief clear in his voice.
Agni's eyes widened in horror as he stared at the messenger, clearly struggling to comprehend the news. Vayu and Varuna, who had been stoic up until this point, now looked at each other with panic in their eyes. The tranquility of the gathering was replaced by a heavy, palpable fear as the gravity of the situation sank in.
"The King of Svarga has just left, and now these Asuras appear in Svarga!"
Surya's voice trembled slightly, despite his best efforts to conceal it. His brows furrowed in deep concern.
"What should we do?" he asked, his gaze flicking between the Devas in the room.
He quickly regained his composure, raising his head and inquiring urgently, "How many troops have they brought?"
"Hayagriva, Madhu, and Kaitambha—are any of them here?" Surya's questions came fast, his anxiety growing by the second.
"No, none of them have come!" a Gandharva soldier replied hurriedly. "There is no army—only four Asura women. They claim they were sent by King Asura with a message for the Devraja and the Devas."
Upon hearing this, a collective sigh of relief swept through the Devas. They exchanged glances, their earlier tension dissipating slightly. While they were still unsure of the Asuras' true intentions, it was a small comfort that none of the more formidable Asura leaders had arrived.
"Hari Hari," Varuna murmured, his shoulders relaxing as he glanced toward Surya. "It seems we've avoided another war—for now."
Though Indra was absent, the Devas still felt uneasy. If the Asuras were to launch a full-scale assault, their defenses might not hold. But with only four Asura women sent as messengers, it seemed less threatening.
"Let them in," Surya said with a sigh of relief, waving his hand to signal the soldiers. "We will handle this."
The Devas returned to their thrones, sitting upright, their gazes fixed on the grand doors of the palace. Moments later, the doors swung open, and four figures glided in like shadows in the moonlight.
The Asura women entered gracefully, their steps sinuous, their forms distinct and alluring. They wore long red saris, the fabric shimmering in the light, with red gauze scarves that veiled their faces. Their silhouettes were delicate yet striking, and each seemed to carry a quiet, hypnotic charm. Their limbs, full and curvaceous, made them appear almost like fruits on a tree—ripe and lush.
At first glance, the air seemed to thrum with moist, intoxicating energy that left the Devas momentarily spellbound. The room was heavy with the scent of something unfamiliar and undeniably enticing.
As the women drew nearer, they lifted their red gauze veils, revealing their stunning faces.
"I'm Simhika~," said the woman in the center, her voice soft and melodic. With a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, she fluttered her long lashes, sending a jolt through the Devas' hearts. Her lips curled into a smile, one that seemed to capture all attention.
"I'm Kumorani~" chimed another, her voice sweet and almost childlike. Despite her diminutive size, there was a warmth to her presence, as if she were far more than she appeared. Her slender fingers twirled through her hair in a playful gesture, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
The other two women stood equally captivating, their beauty overwhelming. They exuded an aura of allure, their charm undeniable, their very presence a temptation that stirred something deep within the Devas.
Surya's voice broke the silence, his admiration tempered by suspicion. "Their beauty is... undeniable. But why would the Asura King send such women as messengers?"
Vayu, ever cautious, furrowed his brow as he studied the women. "Beauty alone cannot be the reason for their presence. There is a deeper conspiracy here. Why use such means in a simple message?"
Agni leaned forward slightly, his eyes narrowing as he observed the women. "Yes, this is no ordinary delegation. If the Asura King wished to send a message, he could have done so with anyone. But these women..." He paused, his gaze flickering between the women and his fellow Devas. "There is something more to this, something we are not seeing."
Varuna, usually reserved, spoke with quiet authority. "The Asura King is cunning. Sending beautiful women, with their power of seduction, is no coincidence. They are not merely messengers—they are instruments, and the message they bear is likely one we need to tread carefully with."
Simhika's lips curled into a knowing smile as she noticed the Devas' wary gazes. Her voice was soft yet carried a weight of power. "You are wise, Devas. We do not come merely to deliver words... We bring more than that. A message of great importance, from the Asura King Hayagriva himself."
Kumorani's voice was playful, yet there was an underlying edge to it. "But perhaps... the beauty of the messenger is part of the message. After all, what is beauty without purpose?"
---
Chapter 95 Scent of Peace & Stench of Betrayal
The intoxicating fragrance wafting from the Asura women filled the air. It was enchanting, almost hypnotic. Many of the Devas appeared visibly affected, their gazes distant and dreamy. Soma closed his eyes, took a slow, deep breath, and savored the alluring scent. For a moment, he seemed lost in it, unable to pull himself back to reality. He had seen countless beautiful Devis in his time, but there was something different about the sensual, captivating aura of the Asura women. It left him with a strange and novel feeling.
Even Surya, seated on his throne, was momentarily distracted, his composure faltering as he took in their presence. However, he quickly snapped out of it, remembering his duty. Straightening his posture, he puffed out his chest, projecting authority, and spoke in a loud, commanding voice.
"Why has the Asura King sent you to Svarga as his messengers? What is your true purpose in this visit?"
Surya's tone was firm, his expression slightly serious as he sat with an air of dignity. One hand rested on his knee as his gaze bore into the visitors.
Simhika, one of the Asura women, shifted her gaze with a mischievous glint in her eyes. Her lips curved into a soft, playful smile as she looked up at the empty throne that sat above Surya—the throne of the King of Svarga.
"Is Indra not here?" she asked, her voice light and melodic, tapping her red lips with a finger in a way that was both casual and calculated. Her demeanor was as innocent as a fawn, yet there was a sharpness in her words that couldn't be ignored.
Surya straightened further, his pride evident as he responded firmly.
"Big brother Indra is attending to important matters. For now, I, Surya, shall oversee all affairs of the Svarga!"
His voice was resolute, his chest puffed out as if to shield the honor of Svarga itself.
Hearing this, Simhikā's eyes sparkled with mischief and delight. A soft laugh slipped from her lips—sweet and lilting, like the call of an oriole at dawn.
"We bring a message from the King of the Asuras," she announced, her voice shifting into a formal cadence, though it retained its playful lilt. "The Asuras seek reconciliation with the Devas. Our sovereign, King Hayagrīva, has proposed a grand celebration to honor this rare and auspicious peace between Svarga and Pātāla."
She paused, her smile deepening, as if each word was a step in a carefully choreographed dance.
"Thus, on behalf of His Majesty, we extend a heartfelt invitation to all the Devas. Come to Pātāla with us—to join in revelry, as we mark the beginning of a unique era of peace in the entire Triloka!"
Her voice was warm and inviting, like that of a kind older sister extending a heartfelt invitation. Yet the weight of her words fell like thunder within the great palace.
Silence enveloped the hall.
The Devas exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions a mix of surprise, hesitation, and doubt. The King of Svarga's absence loomed over them like a shadow, and the timing of such an invitation felt suspect.
Surya's expression hardened as suspicion flickered across his face. His mind raced. To go to the pataloka, especially without their king present, could be dangerous. What if this was a trap?
Simhika stared at Surya, her laughter echoing through the grand palace. The sound was melodic, yet it carried an undercurrent of menace.
"Of course," she began with a sly smile, "If devas are unwilling, my king will gladly lead the Asura legions here himself to challenge the King of Svarga directly. After friendship is only beneficiary when done between equals."
Her voice was sweet, but the threat was as clear as sunlight piercing through a storm cloud.
This wasn't just a simple invitation—it was an ultimatum. Either the Devas descended to the patalaloka peacefully, or the Asuras would march to Svarga, ready for war.
Surya lowered his head slightly, his face dark with contemplation. The weight of the decision pressed on him like the noonday sun. He suddenly found himself trapped in a dilemma.
Simhika, sensing his hesitation, tilted her head ever so slightly and let out a soft, almost pitiful sigh. Her delicate fingers curled a strand of her dark hair as she spoke, her tone laced with feigned grievance.
"Surya Dev~," she said in a low, sing-song voice. "We are merely following the orders of King Asura. If we fail in our mission, you know he will not spare us..."
Her voice trailed off, trembling with just the right touch of vulnerability.
Kumorani, standing beside her, quickly joined in, her voice dripping with mock surprise. "Is the great Surya Dev afraid?"
Vishvani followed suit, her words filled with feigned admiration, though her lips curled with mischief. "Impossible! The Devas are known for their strength and bravery. Surely they are not afraid of us."
Tharini added with mock sadness, her tone laced with pity. "Yes, yes! The mighty Surya Dev must have a noble reason not to come. But oh, how pitiful we are... If you refuse us, do you know what punishment awaits us when we return empty-handed?"
The women bowed their heads, their voices trembling as though on the verge of tears. They pressed their delicate hands together, creating a picture of innocence that masked their cunning.
The Devas looked on, their expressions a mix of confusion and unease.
Surya's face hardened, his chest rising and falling with restrained anger. These veiled insults and theatrical displays were starting to get under his skin. He slammed his hands together with a loud clap, ready to put an end to their games.
But before he could speak, a loud, surprised voice broke through the tension, cutting through the palace like lightning.
"Mother?!"
The voice was raw, filled with disbelief and astonishment.
At the entrance to the grand hall stood Rahu, his form floating mid-air, his serpentine tail raised in shock. His wide eyes locked onto the familiar figure standing among the Asuras, and his booming voice echoed through the chamber.
"Mother, is it really you?!"
The word carried a strange rhythm, rising and falling with his emotions, drawing out into a long, disbelieving cry that reverberated in every corner of the palace.
The sound seemed to freeze time.
The Devas turned as one, their gazes snapping to the entrance, their expressions a kaleidoscope of shock, confusion, and disbelief.
Rahu's wild hair whipped around his head, his face a mix of frantic energy and astonishment. His disembodied head floated in the air, black smoke pouring from his neck like a jet engine, the fumes swirling in chaotic clouds beneath him.
Next to him was Ketu, his snake-like tail coiled and raised in equal surprise.
The air grew thick with tension as Rahu's voice settled into silence, leaving only the soft hiss of the smoke swirling around him.
Simhika froze.
That voice—so familiar, so long unheard—struck her like a lightning bolt. Her lips parted slightly as if to speak, but no words came. Instead, her hands instinctively flew to her mouth, her eyes widening in disbelief.
Slowly, almost hesitantly, she turned her head, her movements sharp and jerky, like she was afraid of what she might see.
Her gaze fell on Rahu.
In an instant, Rahu's head and serpentine tail came into view, catching Simhika's wide, disbelieving eyes.
"Rahu!" she gasped, her voice trembling. "You're... you're not dead!"
Simhika took an involuntary step back, her hands clutching at the folds of her red sari, fingers twisting the fabric at her lower abdomen. Her expression was a mix of shock and raw emotion as she stared at her son, alive and floating before her.
Whoosh!
Rahu's head darted forward, his long, slender snake tail gliding gracefully through the air behind him.
"Mother!" Rahu called out, his voice tinged with equal parts joy and disbelief.
The heartfelt cry drew the attention of Vayu who narrowed his sharp gaze at Simhika. Recognition flickered in his mind like a spark.
"Yes… I've seen her before," Vayu muttered, his brows furrowing. He stroked his beard thoughtfully. "The Asura who almost snatched the Amrita from us if it wasn't for Devi Mohini… I didn't recognize her because hardly anyone would pay attention to anyone else if Devi Mohini is present."
Meanwhile, Soma, who had been quiet and composed the entire time, suddenly blinked, let out a hearty laugh, and stepped out of his seat. The silver of his armor gleamed brightly in the light of the great hall as he walked confidently to the center, stopping beside Rahu. His playful grin widened as he turned to Surya.
"Well then," Soma declared with a casual wave of his hand. "Since she's Rahu's mother, why hesitate? We can't possibly let a mother be punished, can we?" His tone carried a teasing warmth, but there was an undeniable sincerity behind it.
Surya crossed his arms, frowning in deep thought. His golden form seemed to shimmer as he weighed the situation carefully. After a moment, he gave a resigned sigh and nodded.
"Very well," Surya said simply. "We'll go."
Simhika blinked, her beautiful eyes filled with confusion. The shift in events left her reeling.
Rahu isn't dead?
Her gaze darted between the Devas and her son, questions swirling in her mind. Why is he among the Devas?
And then there was the matter of the invitation. She had come here representing the Asuras, aware of their leader's veiled intentions against the Devas. But the truth behind those plans was still unclear to her.
What should I do now? she thought anxiously.
Her thoughts churned even more as she remembered her earlier attempt to seduce the Devas. Heat rushed to her cheeks, and her pulse quickened in a moment of rare panic.
This is bad! I was just trying to provoke them!
Simhika's mind spun, but she forced herself to stay composed as the Devas began preparing for their journey. Soon enough, a divine caravan was formed, with sacred chariots gleaming under the sun as they descended toward the underworld.
Throughout the journey, Simhika followed closely behind Rahu. The initial shock of seeing him alive began to fade, replaced by quiet curiosity. She was determined to understand what had happened.
On one of the sacred chariots, Rahu finally recounted his story.
"And that's how it happened," he concluded. "I was granted the boon of becoming a celestial Dev by Vishnu. It wasn't easy…"
Simhika listened intently, her expression softening with maternal affection. "Oh, my poor child," she murmured, her voice filled with love. "It must have been so hard for you. You've even lost weight!"
Her eyes roamed over him with concern, but her hands faltered as she instinctively reached out to hold his.
Then she froze.
Rāhu was but a severed head, suspended in the ether like the body of a snake, while Ketu was the body with a serpent's head.
Simhika hesitated for a moment before gently placing her palm on Rahu's head, stroking it with all the tenderness of a mother comforting her child.
Rahu's expression froze.
"...Mother," he muttered with a blank stare.
Simhika tilted her head, her loving smile unwavering.
"What is it, dear?"
Rahu sighed deeply, his voice flat. "It's… strange when you touch my head like that."
But Simhika simply chuckled, the worry in her heart finally easing.
Rahu's head floated away, slipping free from Simhika's gentle hand. His voice was calm but curious as he asked, "Mother, what does the Hayagriva want from the Devas?"
Simhika frowned slightly, her brows knitting together. "I don't know the details," she admitted. "All I know is that he plans to stage a game of chausar with the Devas at the banquet."
"A game of chausar?" Rahu echoed, his tone thoughtful. "What might be the bet?"
Simhika shook her head lightly. "I'm not sure," she replied softly, her expression clouded with uncertainty.
Rahu's eyes narrowed as he sank deeper into thought. Moments later, he drifted away from his mother's sacred chariot, glancing back at her once before his form began to emit swirling, billowing black smoke. The dark mist curled around him as he ascended swiftly into the air, gliding toward the golden chariot of Surya, the Sun Dev.
When Rahu arrived, the sacred chariot was already bustling with energy. Vayu, Agni, Varuna, and Soma were all present, their expressions shifting as they discussed the unfolding situation.
Rahu's voice rang out, cutting through the tense atmosphere.
"Hayagriva has planned a game of Chausar for the banquet!" he announced, his tone carrying weight. "There's likely to be a bet involved!"
"Chausar?!"
The Devas all exchanged uneasy glances, each reacting differently to the revelation.
Surya furrowed his brow, his golden aura dimming slightly as he sank into deep contemplation. Agni, ever the fiery and impulsive one, stiffened in surprise. Vayu looked visibly uneasy, his shoulders tense as if anticipating an impending storm, while Varuna's worried eyes flickered with doubt.
Only Soma's expression remained bright, his silver armor catching the light as his eyes lit up with excitement.
"A bet, you say? Then this is a challenge!" Soma declared, a confident grin spreading across his face. "A challenge to us, the Devas! And as Devas, the rulers of Svarga, we cannot decline it. Only by accepting can we remain aligned with dharma!"
The others looked at him in surprise, but Soma wasn't finished. His tone softened slightly as he added, "But this isn't just about dharma. This could also be an opportunity—a chance to bring your mother to Svargaloka, Rahu."
The words hung in the air, striking a chord in Rahu's mind. The dark smoke surrounding him seemed to swirl with renewed determination.
---
Chapter 96 Twilight Welcome
A fleet of sacred chariots cut through the void, streaking across layers of space like meteors chasing the moon. One by one, they hurtled toward Patala Loka, their speed unmatched.
As the Devas neared Pātāla-loka, the light of the upper worlds faded, and a dim twilight enveloped the path. The earth below was vast and jeweled—its lands rich with gold, silver, and rare gems, shimmering with an otherworldly glow. The air was dense, heavy with the scent of unknown flowers and subtle incense, while faint mists curled along the ground like living veils.
Yet, as they drew closer to the Asura stronghold, the grandeur of Pātāla revealed itself. Towering palaces of dark gold and crystal loomed ahead, their architecture ancient and awe-inspiring, bearing the mark of a proud and formidable civilization.
"Behold—the palace of the Asura King," Simihka declared, his voice low with reverence, as she guided the radiant chariots of Devas. Standing firm upon their divine vehicles, the Devas tightened their grips and gazed ahead, their eyes wary yet filled with solemn respect.
Boom! Boom! Boom!
Suddenly, beams of light erupted from the palaces, soaring into the sky before bursting into a shower of golden characters that filled the heavens.
"Swāgatam Devas!" The massive golden Sanskrit words shimmered brightly in the otherwise darkened land, casting an ethereal glow over everything. The sight was breathtaking, almost surreal.
Surya nodded in approval, and the Devas, too, could not help but admire the display.
Agni's eyes still fixed on the sky, murmured, "It seems they are quite enthusiastic."
"It's better to be friends than enemies," Vayu chimed in, his tone light, yet thoughtful.
As the sacred chariots continued their descent toward the Asura Palace, the reins of Aruna, the Dev of Dawn, fluttered in the wind. The horses whinnied, their hooves striking the earth as the chariots landed gracefully on the vast, fiery land.
"Welcome, mighty Devas! Welcome, noble Devas! Welcome, revered Devas!" The voices of Asura soldiers rang out as they lined up on either side of the chariots, holding sacred spears high in the air. Their voices filled the air with a thunderous welcome.
The Devas were momentarily taken aback. But once they realized it was a welcoming ceremony, their expressions softened, and smiles began to form on their faces.
Soon, a procession of women approached, their hands filled with flower baskets. They threw the bright golden marigolds into the air, which cascaded down like a shower of stars, surrounding the Devas in a breathtaking display of color.
And then, from the grand entrance of the palace, Hayagriva stepped forward. Clad in light armor, his horse's mane flowing gracefully behind him, he radiated an air of regal authority. Flanking him were Madhu and Kaitambha, both carrying sledgehammers with ease, their expressions as stoic as ever.
The scene was set. The Devas had arrived. And the game was about to begin.
"Welcome, Devas! My new friends and allies!" Hayagriva greeted him, his arms wide open in a gesture of grand welcome.
In that instant, thunder and lightning crackled around him, surging like an electric storm. His face flickered with shadows, obscuring any clear expression, yet a sly smile lingered at the corner of his lips beneath his horse-headed visage.
"Didn't Indra come along with you?" he asked, scanning the Devas with a glint of curiosity in his eyes.
Surya stepped forward, his presence commanding. With a solemn expression, he lifted his golden sacred cloth from his forearm, its radiant light casting an aura of majesty and sacredness around him.
"The King of Svarga has important matters to attend to," Surya stated, his voice firm. "I, Surya, will oversee all matters in Svarga in his stead."
Hayagriva's eyes narrowed ever so slightly, a hint of suspicion flickering within them. Not here?
"That guy isn't here?" Madhu, his voice dripping with sarcasm, muttered with a tilt of his head. "He must be too scared to show up!"
"Hahaha!" Kaitambha joined in, laughing loudly at the supposed absence.
In an instant, Surya and the other Devas glared fiercely at the two Asura generals, their patience thinning. Even the Asura leader, Hayagriva, cast a disapproving look toward them, his eyes flashing with silent annoyance. These two are fools, he thought, shaking his head inwardly.
Raising his hand, Hayagriva signaled for Madhu and Kaitambha to silence themselves. "My friends, please, come inside!" he urged with a pleasant smile.
The Devas, led by Surya, moved into the grand Asura Palace.
Inside, it was clear that Hayagriva had prepared for their arrival. At the top of the vast platform were four thrones, while several more lined the sides, where Asura generals stood at attention.
Surya took the central throne, flanked by Madhu and Kaitambha on either side. The Devas, in turn, took their seats along the left side, settling in their designated spots.
Snapping his fingers, Hayagriva tilted his head slightly, a mischievous smile dancing on his lips. He clapped his hands, his voice echoing through the hall. "Now, let the games begin!"
The air was alive with the sound of music, a cascade of melodious tunes that seemed to dance through the air. The Asura girls sang and swirled in elegant dances, their movements enchanting, as fragrant winds swirled around them. Meanwhile, exquisite wines were served, filling the air with warmth and the promise of celebration.
For a moment, the Devas were mesmerized, their eyes glistening with curiosity and admiration. The Asura women truly know how to captivate the senses; they thought, captivated by the charm of it all.
After several rounds of indulgence in the wines, Hayagriva's eyes shifted thoughtfully, his gaze landing on Surya beside him.
"My friend Surya," Hayagriva said with a sly grin. "Why don't we step away from the Soma ras and music for a bit? How about a game?"
Surya's eyes narrowed, his posture straightening. So it begins... His senses sharpened instantly.
Hayagriva, sensing the shift, turned toward the hall's entrance and called out. "Step back!" he commanded.
Asura gracefully withdrew, their sweet melodies fading as the atmosphere in the hall grew tense with anticipation. In their place, a golden low table was brought forward, its surface intricately etched with horizontal and vertical stripes, forming a cross-shaped chessboard.
"A game of chausar," Hayagriva declared, his voice ringing out, cutting through the tense silence of the hall. "While the worlds of Svarga and Pataloka may no longer be allowed to intervene in our struggle, here, on this board, our battle shall unfold. A challenge bound by the law."
His eyes sparkled with a mischievous glint, and he tilted his head ever so slightly, a sly smile playing at the corners of his lips. "As the current representative of Svarga, I present this challenge. Surely, you won't refuse, will you?"
Surya was silent for a moment, his mind racing as he weighed the challenge. His thoughts lingered on Hayagriva's words, the subtle taunt in the air.
Hayagriva leaned in, his voice low and coaxing. "My friend Surya, you are the great Sun Dev. You are never alone. You have your family, your friends, your allies. The King of Svarga is your brother, and the Devas are your closest companions. You are a powerful kshitrya... surely, you won't shy away from such a small challenge?"
He glanced over at the assembled Devas and added with a smile, "Of course, even if you lose, there is no true consequence. Your allies will not abandon you, and they will surely aid you."
Surya took a deep breath, his expression hardening as he glanced at his companions. His gaze then returned to Hayagriva, and after a moment of careful consideration, he spoke with quiet determination. "Good. I accept."
With that, both Surya and Hayagriva stood and moved to their positions at opposite ends of the chessboard. The Devas gathered on the left side, while the Asuras stood on the right. The room was thick with anticipation.
Hayagriva sat with regal poise, a golden sword gleaming beneath him, two rectangular dice resting in his hands. The dice were an unusual shade of blue, their shape sharp and precise, with dots only on the four side faces—none on the top or bottom.
"I will use this golden plate," Surya announced, touching the ornament on his chest. In an instant, it blazed with divine light, illuminating the entire palace nd casting long, bright shadows on the walls.
Hayagriva's hand glowed with power, and with a flourish, a massive war mace appeared in his grip. "And I will use this mace," he declared proudly. "Heavier than ten thousand nagas!"
He gripped the war mace tightly and pressed the first piece forward with a confident smile, the weight of the challenge settling in.
The air was thick with tension as all eyes focused on the game. Surya and Hayagriva exchanged determined glances, both knowing this would be no ordinary match. The atmosphere was charged, anticipation buzzing in the air.
"Twelve!" Surya finally declared, breaking the silence.
Hayagriva grinned, rubbing his hands together as the two dice rolled swiftly across the table. They came to a stop, and the result was two sixes.
"I won!" Surya exclaimed, his voice filled with surprise.
The Devas erupted into excited cheers, praising their companion's luck and skill.
"Yes, you won! Truly worthy of being the Sun Dev!" Hayagriva chuckled, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He didn't seem bothered by the loss, continuing the game with renewed enthusiasm. "In the next round, I'll wager my divine bow, forged by Mayasura himself. It can fire fiery arrows, water arrows, and poisonous arrows."
Surya's face lit up with a grin. "I'll stick with twelve! It seems my lucky number," he declared confidently.
Once again, the dice clattered across the table, and as they landed, the result was twelve, much to the delight of the Devas watching.
"Hahahaha!" Surya threw his head back and laughed. "This divine bow is now mine!"
With a triumphant gesture, he reached forward and grasped the weapon, feeling its divine power surge through him.
"Let's continue!" Hayagriva urged his voice, smooth but laced with challenge. "This time, I'll wager the eight hundred Asura dancers in this Palace!"
The mention of dancers caught the attention of the crowd, and Soma, standing nearby, glanced over, but his eyes faltered when he didn't spot Simhika among the dancers. A brief flash of disappointment crossed his face, but he quickly recovered and clapped Surya on the back.
"Bet! Win again, just like this! This is the way a Dev should be!" Soma encouraged with enthusiasm.
The Devas cheered once more, their divine energy swirling as they scrutinized the dice with their powers, ensuring fairness. The odds seemed to favor Surya once again, as he had already secured two victories in a row.
"Devi Lakshmi is with us!" Surya grinned, his confidence growing.
The third round began, and Surya emerged victorious again. Cheers rang out from the Devas, their voices echoing through the palace like a powerful wind.
The fourth round was no less intense. Hayagriva, ever the gambler, bet all the gold in the world, while Surya, with a sly smile, wagered a spark of his divine essence.
And once more, Surya triumphed.
"Hahaha!" Surya laughed, his head held high. "I told you, Devi Lakshmi is on our side!"
Hayagriva grinned, showing no sign of frustration despite the losses. As the gold transformed into golden birds and flew towards Svarga, it was clear this match was far from over.
The fifth round arrived, and this time, Hayagriva bet all the jewels of the earth. But once again, Surya emerged victorious, his grin widening as he raised his arms in celebration.
"Hahaha, my friend! I told you!" Surya shouted, his voice booming. "Devi Lakshmi is truly with us!"
The Devas roared with laughter, their spirits lifted. The sound of their joy reverberated throughout the hall, making it feel as though nothing could stand in their way. With each victory, their belief in the favor of Devi Lakshmi grew stronger.
"Now, for the final round," Hayagriva said, his tone playful yet serious. "I wager my two most trusted servants—Asura Madhu and Kaitambha. What will you wager, Surya?"
Without missing a beat, Surya raised his hand and declared with a loud, confident laugh, "I bet my sun chariot!"
The final challenge was set, and the excitement in the room reached a fever pitch. The game had become more than just a battle of luck—it had turned into a clash of wills, and the Devas were ready to witness Surya's victory once more.
---
Chapter 97 Wager of Lokas
"Not enough!" Hayagriva scoffed, his voice carrying an edge of pride. "Madhu and Kaitambha are blessed by Mahadevi; they can't be killed unless they wish to, and their power is unmatched by any warrior—invincible in this Triloka!"
He spread his arms wide, a smirk playing on the horse's face. As his words echoed in the air, the darkness at the edge of the hall seemed to stir, and from the shadows, the figures of Madhu and Kaitambha emerged.
Boom!
Their massive forms towered over the room, like two sacred mountains, their thick, serpentine arms rippling with immense strength. A deep, thunderous roar emanated from their bodies, a chilling reminder of the terrifying power they wielded.
Surya blinked in surprise as he took in the sight of the two Asuras. A chill ran down his spine, and a thought crossed his mind. These two could be a serious problem for the Devas. He couldn't help but admire their strength.
If I could win and make them my servants...
A sly grin began to form on Surya's face. With a determined glint in his eye, he stood up, gathering his resolve. He was not about to back down now.
"I'll wager everything I've won in this game!" Surya declared, his voice confident, almost casual. "I choose six!"
Hayagriva gave a nod, his grin widening. "Good!" he replied, his tone both eager and calculating. He lowered his head slightly and began rubbing the dice together, summoning the inevitable moment of fate. The dice flew from his hands and clattered across the board, spinning through the air before coming to a stop.
Surya's heart skipped a beat as he looked down at the result. His expression shifted in an instant, like a bolt of lightning had struck him. The Devas, standing at the edges of the room, held their breath as they stared at the dice.
Five.
Surya had lost.
"Hahaha!" Hayagriva erupted with laughter, his voice booming through the hall. "Next, the Sun Chariot is mine!" He raised his arms triumphantly as gold and jewels rained down from the sky, swirling around them before descending back into the earth's treasure vaults.
Surya was left stunned in his seat, his eyes narrowing as he watched the golden brilliance disappear. He lowered his head, feeling a sinking feeling in his chest. This is getting out of hand.
The stakes were rising, higher and higher with every round. His mind raced. What if I lose everything? The Sun Chariot was too important to just throw away. And yet, how could he back out now?
"Continue!" Surya's voice rang out, filled with determination. "I bet my divine realm, Suryaloka!"
Soma, his voice full of conviction, chimed in, "Surya, I believe in you! You must win back what you lost!"
A murmur of surprise rippled through the room. The Devas turned their faces, a mix of disbelief and concern. Eyes flickered, some narrowed in worry, as they exchanged glances.
Not good!
This guy... He's the most impulsive among us. The Devas silently feared Soma's recklessness might be their downfall.
"Good!" Hayagriva's laughter echoed through the chamber, undeterred. "As expected of Soma, the Dev of wine, the most enthusiastic among us Devas! My friend Surya, it's your turn now!"
With a mocking grin, Hayagriva rubbed the dice together, the sound like a steady drumbeat, as anticipation filled the air.
Surya wiped the sweat from his brow, anxiety creeping in.
"I... I choose five," he said, his voice betraying a hint of hesitation.
The dice clattered across the board, spinning and tumbling until they finally came to a stop.
"Six!" Hayagriva's triumphant voice rang out. "You've lost again!"
A thunderous boom echoed, shaking the room. Soma's normally radiant, snow-white skin dulled to a muted gray, and the silver moonlight that had once shimmered around him dimmed. The divine power of Svarga seemed to withdraw from his body, leaving him weakened.
Soma stared at the dice in shock, his face filled with disbelief and horror. "Ah?! How... How could this happen?"
Lost again? He couldn't fathom the outcome. Wasn't Devi Lakshmi on our side?
The Devas looked at one another, panic spreading among them like wildfire.
"How?" Varuna murmured, eyes wide with fear. "Don't tell me you're backing out now. Your allies have lost their ground. Now I understand why you're looking so powerless as a leader."
Hayagriva grinned devilishly. "Under Dharma, a warrior who doesn't accept the challenge is a coward... and that, my friends, is defeat."
His mocking laughter reverberated as Madhu and Kaitambha, towering behind him, joined in, their laughter deafening and taunting.
The Devas were stunned into silence, but it didn't last long.
Agni's eyes blazed with fury, flames burning brighter. Vayu, the Dev of Wind, glared daggers at Hayagriva, his fists clenched with rage. Varuna, the Dev of Water, pursed his lips, his hands trembling with the desire to strike.
"We're not backing down!" Agni spat, his voice like the crackle of fire.
"For the dignity of the Devas!" Vayu added, his tone fierce.
The Devas stood tall, united in their resolve.
Surya, his anger now boiling over, locked eyes with the Asura leader. "Go on, then. Use our heavenly realms as your prize," he seethed. "Six o'clock!"
Hayagriva's grin widened as he squinted, feeling the tension in the air. "Good!" he replied, his voice dripping with anticipation. With a flick of his wrist, he rolled the dice once more, the room holding its breath as fate hung in the balance.
The dice rolled across the board, and the fates of the Devas hung in the balance. When they came to a halt, the result was clear—five o'clock.
Boom!
In an instant, the heavens seemed to shudder, and with the deafening sound of rolling thunder, the entire heavenly realm was plunged into darkness. The divine power that had once filled their bodies began to drain away, leaving them hollow and weak.
The Devas stood frozen in shock, their faces pale and eyes wide with disbelief.
Lost...
They had all lost.
"Hahaha!"
Hayagriva erupted with triumphant laughter, standing suddenly, his left hand raised high. He pointed at the defeated Devas with disdain, a smug grin twisting his face.
"You lost!" he crowed, his voice dripping with contempt. "From now on, Svarga is ours!"
With a commanding shout, he called, "Somebody, come! Seize them! Occupy Svarga!"
The Devas could only watch in stunned silence as the Asura generals began to close in from every direction. The trap had been set, and they had fallen straight into it.
Sun Dev Surya's expression shifted from disbelief to horror as he stood, his posture rigid with alarm. His eyes flicked around the room, panic rising within him.
Rahu, who had been hiding his form using the magic of Maya, looked on with wide eyes. The situation had gone from bad to worse in the blink of an eye.
We're going to be captured... Rahu thought, his mind racing.
Surya, his fists clenched in defiance, turned toward the encroaching Asuras. "Do you think I came to this world without planning for war?!" he shouted, his voice echoing with fiery resolve.
The Asura generals stopped in their tracks, their eyes narrowing in confusion and suspicion. They had not expected such defiance.
"I!" Surya raised his hands high, and the air around him crackled with energy. "I am the Sun! The destroyer of darkness! None, not even the Devas and Asuras, can stand in the shadow of my light!"
At that moment, a blinding burst of light erupted from Surya's body, bathing the room in a searing brilliance. The radiance was so intense it could burn through the very heavens themselves, blinding everyone who dared to look upon it.
"Run!" Surya's voice rang out, filled with urgency.
In an instant, he transformed, becoming a rope of blinding light. He lassoed the other Devas, pulling them into the brilliant glow and dragging them away from the oncoming Asura forces.
Surya hadn't learned much from the King of Svarga, but one thing had stuck with him: when it's time to run, you don't hesitate.
"Ah!!"
Hayagriva's roar of fury shook the very Patala. The ground trembled beneath their feet as if the world itself was convulsing in rage. The atmosphere crackled with tension, the roar of the earth echoing like the thunder of an approaching storm.
But the sun's brilliance began to fade.
"Even the Sun Chariot is mine!" Hayagriva's voice boomed, his rage all-consuming. "Where do you think you can run to?!"
The Devas' retreat was not yet certain, and the battle for Svarga was far from over.
Many of the Asura generals surged forward, eager to stop the Devas' escape. Simhika, however, remained hidden behind a pillar, his expression unreadable. His hand extended, fingers twitching with concentration as he channeled power through the shadows.
In the darkness, black tentacles—thin and sinister—emerged and quietly wrapped themselves around the ankles of the approaching generals.
"What's this?!" one of the Asura generals shouted, eyes widening in confusion.
"Devas?!" another cried out in disbelief.
The Asura generals struggled violently, but as quickly as the shadowy tentacles had appeared, they vanished. They broke free, charging forward with renewed determination.
"Son, this is all I can do for you..." Simhika muttered under his breath, a mix of regret and resolve in his voice.
At last, the Devas broke free from the Asura Palace and made their way to safety.
"Aruna!" Surya cried, his voice desperate as he turned to his ally. "Help me!"
Clop! Clop! Clop!
The sound of powerful hooves echoed in the air, and within moments, six divine horses—each one radiating with the brilliance of dawn—charged toward them, their hooves striking the ground like the first rays of morning light. Aruna, the Dev of Dawn, leaped onto the back of one of these majestic creatures, its mane flowing in the wind.
Though Surya had lost his chariot, his horses were still with him—six of them, ready to carry him into the sky.
Surya swiftly mounted the horse Aruno had summoned, the other Devas following suit. They galloped forward, their divine steeds blazing a trail across the sky.
Rahu clung to one horse's mane, and Ketu gripped the snow-white tail of another, the power of the horses propelling them faster than ever.
Clop! Clop! Clop!
The divine steeds soared into the air, their speed unmatched as they hurtled toward the Brahma Loka, where safety awaited. The Devas knew they had to make it there before the Asuras could catch up.
But Hayagriva, the leader of the Asuras, was not far behind. His anger boiled, and though he chased after them with all his might, it was clear—
He wasn't fast enough.
"Hayagriva!" Vayu called over his shoulder, his voice filled with triumph."You may possess strength, but you'll never match the speed of our divine steeds! They run as fast as thought itself!"
Vayu's laughter echoed in the air like the roar of a victorious general, and the Devas pressed forward, leaving their enemies in the dust.
---
Chapter 98 Siege of Svarga
Surya's horses thundered across the void, its hooves striking the darkness like the beating of a celestial heart. It surged forward, unstoppable, carrying its riders through the endless expanse until finally, Svarga came into view.
As the sun horse and its riders neared their destination, the Gandharva warriors stationed in Svarga were already poised for action, having anticipated their arrival. The Devas had prepared thoroughly, ensuring their forces were ready for anything—from a full-scale attack to a sudden shift in tactics.
This was the moment—the moment to enter Brahma Loka.
"Go! Go! Go!"
Vayu, ever the swiftest and most vocal, shouted with such force that his voice rang out across the entire Svarga.
At his command, the Gandharva army moved with precision, mounting their sacred chariots with ease. Light ropes descended from the chariots, latching onto the palaces below and lifting them slowly into the sky, like threads of divinity pulling the structures upward.
"As expected of my elite warriors from Svarga!" Agni said, a hint of pride in his voice as he observed the growing procession of divine chariots and ships.
However, there was a problem. The ranks of the Gandharvas were swelling rapidly, and with each passing moment, the sacred chariots became more and more packed, like overfilled vessels ready to burst. The process was agonizingly slow, each chariot barely able to lift off the ground.
"If only I had more of Vishvakarma's sacred chariots," Agni muttered to himself, his brow furrowed in frustration. "But he still hasn't fixed the Vimanas from last time. This delay is unacceptable."
Impatience gnawed at him as he watched the army struggle to ascend, the chariots rising at a sluggish pace.
"How long will this take?" he thought bitterly.
Without further hesitation, Agni let out a fiery sigh, his body ablaze with radiant flames. He swung a rope of red fire into the air, gripped it tightly, and soared upward with a burst of speed, leaving the slow-moving chariots behind. They had no time to waste. Hayagriva and his forces were still pursuing them, and the stakes were too high for delay.
"Om Brahmaye Namah!" Agni shouted, his voice carrying through the air.
"Om Aim Saraswatyai Namah!" echoed the other Devas, their voices rising in unison as they too prepared for what lay ahead. The final push toward Brahma Loka had begun.
…
The praises continued to flow endlessly, a soft white light slowly enveloping the Devas with each reverent utterance, wrapping them in a shimmering aura of divinity.
"Don't even think about running away!"
At last, Hayagriva broke through the gates of Svarga, his roar echoing through the heavens. His eyes fixed on the distant Devas, glowing in the white light, and his anger flared like a blazing inferno.
Ho ho ho!
His deep blue mane whipped around him, sending sharp, hunting winds scattering in every direction. His powerful presence surged upward, the ground beneath him trembling with his ferocity. With a thunderous roar, he tore through the thick clouds, his immense strength clearing a path.
The air itself seemed to buckle under his force, the white light rippling as his body shot forward, a streak of deep blue cutting through the atmosphere. A battle axe materialized in his hand, raised high above his head, and with a divine slash, he struck downward.
Boom!
The roar of impact shattered the heavens, the sea of clouds churning, and the sky itself quaking in response. Hayagriva paused, shaking off the violent gusts of wind, eyes scanning the battlefield. But before him, nothing.
"Disappeared?"
He growled, frustration creeping into his voice. "You managed to outrun me? And now you've all vanished into thin air?" His eyes narrowed as suspicion crept into his thoughts.
"Where did you go?!"
He was certain they hadn't fled far. Could they have been rescued by the Protector of the World, Vishnu himself? He frowned, his gaze sweeping across the vast, empty expanse of Svarga. The Devas, Gandharavas, and Apsaras are so numerous that, have disappeared without a trace. Were they really retreating to Brahma Loka? Could they have made it there already?
The last time they'd encountered the Devas in Brahma Loka, they were prepared, ruthless, and determined. But now? Now, a massive group of Devas had fled, millions strong. Brahma surely would not accept them all.
Hayagriva clenched his jaw. "Could it be Vishnu? Why has the trimurti has intervened so soon?"
The weight of his thoughts was broken by the sudden arrival of his brothers, Madhu and Kaitambha.
Boom! Boom!
The brothers landed beside him, their powerful presence darkening the skies.
"The Devas have been defeated," Madhu said, his voice low but firm. "They're probably being sheltered by Vishnu right now. There's no one left to guard Brahma Loka. We should strike now and steal the Vedas!"
"Yes! Let's take advantage of this!" Kaitambha added, eager for action.
Hayagriva grinned darkly. "Agreed. Let's go. Brahma Loka awaits."
Madhu and Kaitambha nodded, clapping their hands together in unison. In an instant, their bodies spun at blinding speeds, their power surging like a storm, twisting the very air around them into a dark whirlwind. They shot upward, their goal clear—breaking through the skies to seize what was rightfully theirs.
But just as they neared the threshold of their ascent, something unexpected happened.
Their momentum faltered.
The force they had summoned twisted and cracked around them, and their efforts to break through the space ahead faltered. Something was resisting them.
This time, they were not as successful as before.
Stab! Stab!
Above Svarga, streaks of white light flashed as the very fabric of space had exploded. A dazzling burst of light filled the sky, blinding in its brilliance.
Madhu and Kaitambha plummeted, gasping for breath as they struggled to regain their composure.
"Can't get in?" Madhu wheezed, his voice strained with disbelief.
"I can't enter Brahma Loka either!" Kaitambha growled, his frustration building.
Hayagriva's blue mane whipped in the turbulent winds as his eyes widened in shock. His horse's head snapped around in fury, and he swung his massive battle axe through the air, an angry roar escaping his throat.
"Brahma must have been vigilant from the last time and sealed the Loka!" he bellowed. "It wasn't sealed the last time we came!"
Hayagriva's brow furrowed deeply, a sense of annoyance creeping in. His sharp gaze darted across the sky, scanning the vast emptiness of Svarga. The King of Svarga wasn't here, and the Brahma Loka was sealed off.
"Could Indra have anticipated our scheme?" Hayagriva muttered to himself. "Did he guess I would come to seize the Vedas and prepare to lock them down? Clever... but not clever enough."
His horse face darkened as he realized the scope of the situation.
"That's it!" Hayagriva's voice rose with a grim realization. "Only now will Surya have a say in Svarga. The King of Svarga was wise, but his mistake was leaving behind such weaklings. I—" He paused, a smirk curling on his lips, "I am the superior one. The Svarga Realm belongs to me now."
The Asura's lips curled upward into a proud grin as he surveyed his companions.
"What should we do now?" Madhu asked, his frustration evident as he glared at Hayagriva.
"Not so fast!" Hayagriva waved dismissively. "I still have a plan."
He narrowed his eyes, his voice cold and commanding. "Since we can't enter, we'll make Brahma come to us. You two will perform the harshest penance imaginable. Sever your own arms and throw them into the Yajna fire. Brahma will have no choice but to appear after a few decades, at most."
Madhu and Kaitambha exchanged uneasy glances, their faces contorted in disbelief.
"Does Hayagriva think we're fools?" Madhu muttered under his breath, shaking his head.
"No! Absolutely not!" Kaitambha protested loudly, stepping back. "We can grow our arms back, but that would be far too painful!"
Madhu nodded in agreement, his voice heated. "We're not doing that!"
Hayagriva's gaze hardened as he watched the two asuras with frustration. He knew it would be difficult to persuade them—most asuras wouldn't be able to endure the suffering of such a penance. The physical toll would quickly weaken their divine bodies if they failed to nourish themselves during the process.
But more importantly, Hayagriva didn't trust the two. They were idiots, far too astute at critical moments, after al,l they were born from Vishnu's essence.
"Fine," he said with a sigh, though his eyes gleamed with malice. "Then we'll take our time. Right now, we have no choice but to rely on you."
He took a deep breath, his voice lowering to a more conspiratorial tone. "This is all part of our grand plan. Once we capture the Vedas, the end of the trimurti will be upon us. We'll be the masters of a new world."
Hayagriva's words carried a weight of certainty, his mind already racing with the possibilities of the power they would soon command. The plan was far from over—it had only just begun.
…
Brahma Loka
"Brahma dev, we've lost Svarga again!" Surya exclaimed, his hands clasped in frustration as he lifted his head to meet Lord Brahma's gaze.
The Devas stood nearby, their faces downcast, their spirits crushed. They looked like children fleeing from a furious neighbor's rooster—defeated and downtrodden.
Brahma blinked slowly, rolling his eyes as he surveyed the group of broken Devas. His mind wandered back to the earlier struggle between the Devas and Asuras.
Such a pity, he thought, his heart heavy with helplessness.
Hayagriva had challenged Surya to win half of Svarga, doing so with fair and just means. The King of Svarga wasn't even present, so Hayagriva's victory, though inconvenient, adhered to the rules. Still, something about that dice felt off.
Brahma opened his mouth, a sigh escaping him as he looked at the defeated Devas. "Perhaps we should seek the guidance of Vishnu. He might have a solution for this."
The room fell into silence before Vayu, ever the practical one, raised his head, confusion written on his face. "But how do we get to him?"
Brahma's lips curved into a slight, knowing smile. "Go directly through the Kshira Sagara. Hayagriva can't catch up with you, let alone any other Asuras."
The Devas blinked, shocked by the unexpected suggestion. Directly to the Vaikuntha? It sounded rash and irresponsible, yet... it made sense.
They were well-acquainted with the route, having traveled it countless times before. Could the Asuras move faster than them? Unlikely.
"It makes sense!" Varuna nodded enthusiastically. "I'm not sure if my mount has completed his penance, but if it has, we can get there quickly!"
"Yes, that's true!" Agni chimed in. "Once they've completed their penance, let's ask the Lord Vishnu for a blessing that'll make them faster than the Asuras!"
The Devas, hearts lifting slightly, began to gather their things. Without a second thought, they set off, determined to pay their respects and seek assistance from Vishnu, the Protector of the World.
Their steps were lighter now, their spirits a little less heavy, as they made their way toward the one being they hoped would have the answer they so desperately needed.
---
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