Hear now the tale as it unfolds from the sacred verses. Having restrained the tumultuous forces, the lord of the worlds turned his attention to the hosts of Maruts. Let me recount to you, as promised, the events that transpired during the interval of Cākṣuṣa Manu. At the revered site where the seven Sarasvatis flow, he undertook great austerities, seeking divine favor. Yet, as he sat in deep meditation upon the riverbank, a woman approached, intent on disturbing his penance. The sage Maṅkaṇaka, perceiving her deluded state, uttered a curse: "A horse will destroy you at the sacrificial assembly." From the seven Sarasvatis, seven Maruts were indeed born; hearing the story of their birth cleanses sin and brings forth great righteousness. In those days, Prahāda became the giver of sacred mantras, and Śukra served as the family priest. All the assemblies gathered, eager to witness these events. Seeking guidance, he asked the noble elders, "What is most beneficial for me?" They replied, "Whatever action is most auspicious for you, and likewise for our welfare." Thus, the mighty Hiraṇyakaśipu rose to become Indra, lord of the three worlds. Yet, before the eyes of the Dānava chiefs, he was torn apart by the nails. For their sake, O mighty-armed one, we revere Śaṅkara, the trident-wielder. Kujambha too was struck down by Viṣṇu before your very eyes, like a beast. Virocana, your own father, was slain—know this. In response, preparations were made with all the great Asuras. Foot soldiers and other warriors marched forth to battle against the gods. Bali and Kālanemi stood at the front of the army, while Tāraka, dreadful and fearsome, advanced to the southern flank. He spoke to the Daityas, commanding them to fight alongside their forces. The Blessed One mounted the chariot of Mātali, ever ready for battle. Each warrior took to their own vehicle, eager for combat, and set out. The Vidyādharas, Guhyakas, Yakṣas, Rākṣasas, and serpents joined the fray—some on elephants, others on chariots, and others on horses. All rushed to the place where the Daitya army was stationed. At that moment, Viṣṇu, best among the gods, mounted up and advanced. He bowed with his head lowered, accompanied by all the excellent gods. Viṣṇu, the thousand-eyed, moved at the center, protecting the rear, while mighty Varuna advanced on the right, supporting the flank. Hosts with arms raised, wielding diverse weapons and missiles, confronted the enemy force upon the mountain. A fierce battle between gods and demons erupted in a place devoid of trees and birds, on the highest mountain, reminiscent of the ancient struggle between the monkey and the elephant. A cloud tinged with twilight hues appeared in the sky, O best of ascetics. Day and night, everywhere, the cries rang out: "Cut! Break!" Blood began to flow, mingling with dust, creating utter confusion. Together, they charged forward with the wise Skanda. The Daityas, protected by Maya and fierce in battle, struck down the gods. O Narada, the gods were defeated in battle by the Daityas, even with Skanda among them.