With joy in his heart, the king summoned the learned men and inquired about the most auspicious moment for his endeavors. The wise ones, skilled in reading the signs of fate, spoke to the king of the earth, declaring with supreme words that the son of the regional king was indeed worthy of joining the Krishna lineage. Upon hearing this, Lakṣaṇa, the heroic prince, set out toward the city of Barhiṣmatī, just as he had done in earlier times. There, he established his own kingdom in the northern reaches of the sacred Naimisha forest. O king, it was during the festival of serpents, on the fifth day beneath a clear sky, that a new turn of events unfolded. Krishna’s descendant, distressed by harsh words spoken against him, swiftly sought safety with his strong arms. Mighty in spirit, he prepared himself for battle. After only a brief combat, he threw down his opponent in the midst of the battlefield. Witnessing his own son fallen and unconscious, the king, sword in hand, rushed forward—his heart filled with anger. Perceiving their wrath, Krishna’s descendant became even more powerful. When the wrestlers’ strength was overcome, the king, sword still in hand, was recognized by the lord of the earth, who then restrained him from further action. In the ninth year, among the descendants of Krishna, the young princes, delighted, offered their salutations: “Salutations to you, O foremost king, bestower of all joy.” Pleased by their words, the king replied, “So be it.” Filled with happiness, he granted them those born from the womb of the deer, as you have heard, O Sūta, just as the mare had come from the deer. These wondrous beings came to Bhīṣmasiṃha from Indra, lord of the gods, O sage. Adorned with divine ornaments, they moved freely through the sky and water. Sūta then spoke: One among them performed devoted service to the Sun for twelve years. Bowing down, he prayed, “O Lord, I bow to you; if you wish to grant a boon—” The Sun, pleased, said, “So be it,” and gifted him a papihaka bird. Thus, the one named Papihaka became the protector of the worlds. Overcome by desire, he united with her, and from their union, horses were born. Then, from the doe, three were born: Megha, Pushpa, and Balāhaka. These four, with divine forms, had previously taken birth as mighty beings. Such is the tale told to you, O sage; now listen to the auspicious story that follows. To Devasiṃha, the strong one, a horse was given as his heart’s desire. To his son, Brahmananda, he granted the city of deer. Balakhani mounted the beautiful white mare. In great joy, the tiger—terrifying to all living beings—was slain. By Brahmananda, the deer was slain in the great forest. Meanwhile, the goddess Sharada, with her beautiful face, appeared. Upon seeing her, all were enchanted and, in their wonder, struck her with their own arrows. The heroes, beginning with Ahlada, were astonished at this vision. Afflicted and fearful, the goddess fled into the forest. There, she entered the depths and assumed her true divine form. She spoke: “Whenever you are overcome by fear, remember me always.” Having spoken thus, the auspicious goddess Śāradā disappeared from their sight. Witnessing the valor of his sons and companions, the king was filled with joy. Then, in the delightful season of spring, they all went together to the pleasure garden, their hearts uplifted by the blessings and adventures that had unfolded.