With a pure heart and steadfast vow, he performed the sacred rite exactly as prescribed by tradition. By the power of this rite, those Dānavas who had first fallen in battle miraculously rose again, restored to life. As the warriors gathered once more for combat, Nandī approached Śaṅkara and spoke with concern, saying, “The revival of the dead is both inconceivable and unbearable.” It was by Bhārgava’s profound knowledge that the slain were returned to life. Yet, O Lord, the power of Śukra’s knowledge had become slightly diminished. Hearing these words, the Lord replied with affection, revealing the supreme means by which he would fulfill his own purpose. “I shall restrain him as is fitting, having come together with him,” he declared. Determined, he approached the host of the Daityas, intent on seizing Śukra. Like a lion blocking the path of a beast in the forest, he barred the way. In the ensuing confrontation, he fell unconscious, and Nandī swiftly withdrew from the scene. At that moment, five fierce Daityas, tiger-like in their might, rushed toward Nandī. Armed with a variety of weapons, they charged at the Lord of the Gaṇas. The gods, led by the Grandfather himself, watched the unfolding events with grave concern and called out, “Let assistance be rendered to Śambhu at this most critical moment!” In response, Shiva’s celestial army descended swiftly from the sky, their descent as forceful and unstoppable as mighty rivers plunging into the great ocean. A terrifying clash erupted between the two armies of gods and demons. Bhārgava leapt from his chariot like a lion pouncing upon a small animal. Having struck down all the guards in his path, he hurried to report to Śukra. Then, in a wondrous act, he placed Bhārgava, whose body was enveloped, into his own belly. Within, the sage praised the Blessed One with words filled with reverence: “Salutations again and again to Śaṅkara, the Great Lord, the Three-Eyed One. Obeisance to you, O Fire of Desire, Foe of Time, Vāmadeva. Salutations again and again to Mahādeva, Śarva, the Lord.” He then entreated, “O best of gods, grant me this boon today—that I may emerge again from your very belly.” As soon as the Lord spoke thus, the foremost Bhārgava began to move about within the god’s belly. To his amazement, he beheld the oceans and the underworlds, all filled with both stationary and moving beings. He saw hosts of Yakṣas, Kimpuruṣas, and others, as well as the groups of Gandharvas and Apsaras. There were trees, shrubs, mountains, vines, fruits, roots, and medicinal herbs—every kind of being, both four-footed and two-footed, stationary and moving. A divine year passed for Bhārgava in that wondrous place. At length, weary and seeking refuge, he approached the great god for alms, saying, “O thousand-eyed great god, I have come to you for shelter. Having seen all the worlds within your body, I am weary and seek refuge in you.” The Lord responded with compassion, “Come forth, you are now my son, O moon among the Bhārgava lineage, by the organ, indeed.” Having spoken thus, the Blessed Lord released Śukra from his body, and he emerged. Śukra bowed respectfully to Śambhu, then swiftly returned to the mighty army of the Asuras, his strength renewed. Once again, both hosts resolved upon battle, joining forces with their lords. All of them, longing for victory, plunged into a tumultuous and fierce conflict.