The lords of the Gaṇas watched intently as the group swiftly reached Śambara. Yet, in a flash, Śambara vanished from sight, dissolving as though the very earth had melted into the sky. At that moment, the youthful warrior turned to all directions and struck down the enemy army with great force. Amidst the chaos, a woman—her form dejected, limbs trembling with fear—became overwhelmed by distress and terror. Seeking refuge, she fled to Śukra for protection. Meanwhile, Andhaka approached Śukra and addressed him with earnest words. O sage among the twice-born, Śukra then summoned the Gandharvas, Asuras, and Kinnaras to his side. He spoke of the suffering of those without protectors, likening it to a woman tormented by evil ones. In the same way, he said, these inexhaustible fiends are vulnerable, like the ripe fruit of Kurukṣetra. Just as we conquer others in battle, so too must you act accordingly. For your sake, I will strive and do what pleases you. Śukra, steadfast in his vows, performed the prescribed rites with purity and precision. By his power, those Dānavas who had first fallen in battle rose once more. As the warriors advanced for combat, Nandī turned to Śaṅkara and spoke: "The revival of the dead is inconceivable and unbearable. Again and again, Bhārgava’s knowledge brings them back." Yet, O Lord, he added, the power of Śukra’s knowledge has become slightly diminished. With affection, the Lord replied, revealing the highest means for his own purpose: "I will restrain him as is fitting, now that we have come together." With this resolve, he approached the host of the Daityas, intent on seizing Śukra. Like a lion blocking the path of a beast in the forest, he stood firm. Yet suddenly, he fell unconscious, and Nandi quickly withdrew from the scene. At that moment, five tiger-like Daityas rushed toward Nandi, armed with various weapons, charging fiercely at the Lord of the Gaṇas. The gods, led by the Grandfather, looked on and resolved, "Let assistance be rendered to Shambhu at this most critical moment." Instantly, Shiva’s army descended from the sky, swift and powerful, like mighty rivers plunging into the vast ocean. The clash between the two armies—gods and demons—was terrifying to behold. Bhargava leapt from his chariot like a lion pouncing upon a small animal. After striking down all the guards, he reported back to Śukra. Then, in a remarkable act, he placed Bhargava, whose body was enveloped, into his own belly. Within, the sage praised the Blessed One with words of deep reverence: "Salutations again and again to Shankara, the Great Lord, the Three-Eyed One. Obeisance to you, O Fire of Desire, Foe of Time, Vamadeva. Salutations again and again to Mahadeva, Sharva, the Lord." He then requested, "O best of gods, grant me this boon today—that I may emerge again from your very belly." As soon as the Lord agreed, the foremost Bhargava began to move within the god’s belly. There, he beheld wondrous sights: the oceans and the underworlds, all teeming with stationary and moving beings. He saw hosts of Yakshas, Kimpurushas, Gandharvas, and Apsaras, as well as trees, shrubs, mountains, vines, fruits, roots, and medicinal herbs—an entire universe contained within the divine.