A mysterious voice echoed, pleading, “Do not cast me,” but despite this, the king’s life came to an end. Soon after, children were born, and their cries filled the air, stirring the heart of the sage who observed these events. Gathering together, one restrained and then took action concerning the sons of Marut. Now, O sage devoted to austerity, listen to the tale of those who were born in the era of Raivata. Among them was Ripujit, who became renowned, though he himself had no son. Seeking companionship, he took the maiden Surati and, having seized her, brought her home. Surati, overwhelmed by sorrow and afflicted in body, resolved to abandon her own form. Her grief drew the attention of all the ascetics, who became attached to her in mind. Absorbed by her plight, the sages gazed upon her. When they departed, seven sons emerged from the sacred fire. Once again, the lord of the worlds restrained these sons and acted upon the hosts of Maruts. Now, hear what transpired during the interval of Cākṣuṣa Manu. At the holy place of the seven Sarasvatis, great austerity was performed. Surati, too, approached the riverbank and began to disturb the sage, O beautiful one. The sage Maṅkaṇaka, perceiving her distraction, cursed the deluded woman, declaring, “A horse will destroy you at the sacrificial assembly.” From the seven Sarasvatis, seven Maruts were born, whose very birth destroys sin and brings forth great righteousness. In another time, Prahāda became the giver of mantras, and Śukra served as the family priest. All the assemblies gathered, eager to witness these events. He asked the noble-born elders, “What is most beneficial for me?” They replied, “Whatever action is most auspicious for you, and likewise for our welfare.” Hiraṇyakaśipu, mighty among beings, rose to become Indra over the three worlds. Yet, before the eyes of the Dānavas’ lords, he was torn apart by nails. For their sake, O mighty-armed one, Śaṅkara, the wielder of the trident, was revered. Kujambha, too, was struck down by Viṣṇu before your very eyes, like a beast. Virocana, your father, was slain; thus I recount this to you. In response, preparations were made with all the great Asuras. Foot soldiers and others marched forth to battle against the gods. At the heart of the army stood Bali and Kālanemi, leading the front. Tāraka, dreadful and fearsome, advanced to the southern flank. He commanded the Daityas to fight, accompanied by their mighty forces. The Blessed One mounted the chariot of Mātali, always ready. Each warrior mounted their own vehicle, eager for battle, and set out. The Vidyādharas, Guhyakas, Yakṣas, Rākṣasas, and serpents joined them—some on elephants, others on chariots, and some on horses. All together, they rushed to the place where the Daitya army was stationed. At that moment, Viṣṇu, foremost among the gods, mounted up and advanced. He bowed with his head lowered, accompanied by all the excellent gods. Vishnu, the thousand-eyed, moved at the center of the host, protecting the rear, as the great battle was about to unfold.