In ancient times, there lived a noble soul who had two sons, both devoted to the sacred duties of kṣatriyas. Of these sons, one, upon reaching the age of twelve, became renowned as Mayūradhvaja. He was a youth of remarkable self-control, observing silence and dedicating himself to the austere path of a forest-dweller. At this time, the blessed commander of the gods, Agnibhū, became pleased with him. Even Mayūradhvaja himself was astonished, for he saw that the child was entirely golden in form. Overwhelmed by this divine vision, Mayūradhvaja spoke with reverence, “He drinks his mother’s excellent milk and ever destroys the daityas and dānavas. Salutations to you, lord of Devasenā, slayer of Mahiṣāsura. Be gracious, O all-pervading one, bearer of Guha’s power, imperishable one.” Hearing these words of praise, the great commander of the army spoke to him. Thus addressed by the god, the king humbly replied. And having said, “So be it,” Skanda disappeared from that place. The city where these events unfolded was called Mayuranagara, a thriving metropolis filled with multitudes of people. Among the king’s relatives was Laharo, who, after ten years of effort, gained the favor of the blessed Lord Varuna, master of the waters. Hearing the nectar-like words of Varuna, King Laharo was filled with joy. Varuna addressed him, “Therefore, you are called Prachetas; salutations to you, O Prachetas. You restrain the flow of waters, unhindered by anyone. You are a force for binding the Daityas and securing the victory of the gods.” Thus praised by the wise king, the god was pleased. Within this realm was a mighty city, stretching thirty yojanas and inhabited by all four varnas. By the grace of the gods, King Laharo obtained a queen named Shubhana. In her, he begot ten sons, and after them, a daughter was born, named Madanamanjari. Considering Devasiṃha, a worthy and excellent descendant of the lunar dynasty, as a suitable match, she was united with him. Their union brought forth a son, Ranadhira, who was both strong and possessed of great wealth. In time, King Parimala, renowned in his lineage, was approached with respect. Upon hearing of these events, Parimala, wise and discerning, summoned Devasiṃha. Devasiṃha, powerful yet humble, addressed his paternal uncle with respect. He was earnestly requested in many ways by all, in the presence of the assembly of the twice-born. Then King Parimala spoke to the steadfast Ranadhira, and Ranadhira, accepting his words, returned to his house. Meanwhile, a cunning king approached and spoke, “O King, this suitor is of Shudra origin, a cause of confusion among the castes. Bind him in a prison of iron, O lord of the earth.” In the ensuing struggles, Jambuka, the king, was defeated by them, as was Netrasiṃha, another mighty king. Āryasiṃha and others, though strong, were likewise conquered. On the tenth day of the bright half of Māgha, the mighty one attacked Balakhāni. These events took place in the beautiful land of Pāñcālaka, within the city of Laharī. At the king’s command, the heroes assembled for battle, and once more he ordered his own warriors to the fight. A fierce and terrifying battle arose between the two armies. Empowered by a portion of Krishna, he slew the enemy, securing a resounding victory.