With unwavering resolve, the Lord declared, “I will surely deposit my seed in the womb of his wife.” He foretold that, after fulfilling this act, she would abandon her mortal body and become his beloved. Then, having offered the spear, Hari entered swiftly and joyfully within. Afterwards, Nārāyaṇa recounted to the great sage: Hari quickly returned to his own abode, his proper place. On the banks of the river Candrabhāgā, beneath a beautiful banyan tree, he appointed Puṣpadanta, the lord of the Gandharvas, as his messenger, as desired. At the command of the Lord, Puṣpadanta sped towards the magnificent city. This city, O sage, was vast—five yojanas wide and twice as long—protected by seven formidable moats. It glittered with countless jewels, shining like blazing fire. All around, groups of merchants displayed a wealth of goods, and divine hermitages adorned the city, each beautifully decorated. Its shape was exceedingly circular, like the full disc of the moon, difficult for enemies to penetrate but pleasant and welcoming for others. Splendid with twelve gates, each guarded by vigilant gatekeepers, the city was adorned with hundreds of thousands of mansions studded with chief gems. Jewel-encrusted doors and vessels topped with jewels were everywhere. The city was perpetually protected by countless Dānavas: handsome, well-dressed, and adorned with various ornaments. At the gate stood a smiling man, holding a spear. Puṣpadanta narrated the events to him and, having received permission, departed. No one stopped the messenger, who had assumed his proper form. He went straight to inform the Lord of all the happenings of the battle. Upon arrival, Puṣpadanta beheld Shankhachuda, who was exceedingly charming. Shankhachuda was adorned with a splendid staff set with jewels and topped with precious gems. A beautiful golden parasol, held by a servant, shaded him. He was handsomely dressed, delightful, and adorned with jeweled ornaments, surrounded by thirty million splendidly attired lords of the Daityas. Witnessing such grandeur, Puṣpadanta was filled with amazement. Puṣpadanta then spoke: “I will convey what Shankara himself has said; listen. Give the kingdom and authority to the gods at this very moment. Having given you the trident, Hari has sent Shiva to you. Return their domain, or else, certainly, prepare for battle.” Hearing these words, Shankhachuda laughed. He quickly went and spoke to the Lord seated at the root of the banyan tree. At that moment, Skanda arrived before Shiva. With him were Vishalaksha, Bana, Pingalaksha, and Vikampana; also present were Kapilaksha, Dirghadamshtra, Vikata, and Tamralochana. Balonmatta, proud of his strength, Rana-shlaghi, Durjaya, and Durgama joined them as well. The Vasus, beginning with Vāsava, and the twelve Ādityas were remembered. Kubera and Yama, Jayanta and Nalakūbara were also there, gathering for the great event.