After Skanda had spoken, he uttered, “So be it,” and vanished from that very spot. In the land known as Mayuranagara—a bustling city teeming with people—there lived a king named Laharo, a relative of noble lineage. For ten long years, Laharo persevered, striving toward his purpose with unwavering determination. At last, the blessed Lord Varuna, master of the waters, became pleased by Laharo’s devotion and efforts. When King Laharo heard the nectar-like words spoken by Varuna, his heart was filled with joy. Varuna addressed him, saying, “Therefore, you are called Prachetas; salutations to you, O Prachetas. You restrain the flow of waters, unhindered by anyone. You are destined to bind the Daityas and secure victory for the gods.” Thus, at that time, the wise king praised the god Varuna. Mayuranagara itself was a vast city, measuring thirty yojanas, and inhabited by people of the four varnas. By Varuna’s grace, King Laharo obtained a queen named Shubhana. In her, he fathered ten sons. Afterward, a daughter was born to them, named Madanamanjari. Considering Devasiṃha, an excellent descendant of the lunar dynasty, as a worthy match, Madanamanjari was wed to him. Their son, Ranadhira, grew strong and possessed a lakh of coins. Ranadhira, honoring King Parimala, renowned in his lineage, bowed before him. Hearing of this, the wise King Parimala summoned Devasiṃha. Devasiṃha, powerful yet humble-minded, addressed his paternal uncle, and was earnestly requested in many ways by all, accompanied by the assembly of the twice-born. Then King Parimala spoke to the steadfast Ranadhira. Ranadhira accepted, thinking, “So be it,” and returned to his house. Meanwhile, a cunning king approached him, saying, “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.” There had been conflict: Jambuka, the king, was defeated by them, as was Netrasiṃha, another king. Āryasiṃha and others, likewise, those stronger ones, were conquered. On the tenth day of the bright half of Māgha, the mighty Ranadhira attacked Balakhāni. He dwelled in the beautiful land of Pāñcālaka, in the city of Laharī. By the king’s command, heroes gathered for battle; he ordered his own warriors again to the fight. A fierce battle erupted between the two armies, terrifying to behold. Assisted by a portion of Krishna, Ranadhira slew the enemy. The valiant ones, though defeated and with only a few survivors, returned to battle, skilled in bow and arrow. Seeing them thus, covered in a shower of arrows, Krishna’s portion beheld them. He cut their bows and bound those proud in battle. When Laharo, the best of kings, heard of the captivity of his sons, he was deeply moved. When the army was surrounded by water, Jayanta, being stronger, led Laharo’s army for many yojanas. Then the blessed god Varuṇa, lord of aquatic beings, appeared. Even Laharo, with a tranquil mind, recognized his portion on earth. He gave much wealth in many ways, circumambulating again and again in reverence. Those portions, too, received Laharo’s great worship. Thus, O Brahmin, the auspicious deeds of Krishna’s portion have been recounted to you.