In ages past, only a fragment of Kali’s influence was present, and its effects unfolded gradually, much like the subtle shift between the sun’s radiance in summer and winter. Just as the sun’s brilliance rises with time, so too does childhood come gently and steadily into being. Yet, during the day, the sun can be obscured, hidden by dense clouds as time passes. The full moon shines in its completeness on the night of the full moon, but its fullness does not last; it wanes day by day. Then, after the new moon, it grows again, regaining its fullness little by little. When Rahu eclipses the moon, or when thick clouds cover the sky, the moon’s glow appears faded and diminished. Though its splendor has fallen to the netherworld for now, in time, the moon will surely regain its strength. In the course of time, all things—whether moving or unmoving—perish and arise again. Even she who was once radiant was submerged in water, vanished, and fell into misfortune. Yet, I am the conqueror of death, for countless dissolutions of nature have occurred. He alone is the form of nature, and is remembered as Purusha. Whoever constantly recites the names and qualities of that One, by him the creator became known as Brahma, the protector as Vishnu, and the world itself came into being. Rudra was appointed as the fire of time for destruction within this domain. Therefore, I am fearless, for by this knowledge I have conquered death. Having spoken thus, the Lord of all, omniscient and creator of every being, was praised again and again by the king. Shankhachuda then respectfully submitted, “Let me speak truly. You have spoken of three great sins in the betrayal of kin. Tell me, how did Hiranyaksha and his brothers come to harm at the hands of the gods? In the distant past, during the churning of the ocean, the gods consumed the nectar. This universe is the plaything of Krishna, the Supreme Soul. The conflict between gods and demons is both occasional and everlasting. In our conflict, your journey will bear no fruit. Now, a great shame arises—a rivalry between us.” Hearing these words, the three-eyed one laughed and replied, “O king, what shame or disgrace is there in defeat? In the beginning, there was battle between Hari and Madhu and Kaitabha. There was also battle with Hiranyaksha, and again with the wielder of the mace. All these arose from the nature of the Supreme Lady, the Mother of all, Prakriti. You are the foremost attendant of Krishna, the Supreme Self. O king, what shame is there for me in battle with you? Give the kingdom of the gods; what use is there in wasting words?” Having spoken thus, Shankara fell silent. Then, O Narada, Narayana said: He quickly mounted his vehicle, accompanied by his ministers. They became agitated, struck by Skanda’s power. In that dreadful battle, above Skanda himself, destruction came upon the Danavas like the cosmic dissolution. The king’s shower of arrows fell like a heavy downpour of rain.