Chapter 99 Ananta Vana
Above the endless expanse of the Milky Sea, the heavens stretched vast and unbroken.
Vaikuntha shone like a radiant pearl against the cosmic darkness, its brilliance piercing through the void like a beacon of divinity. The sacred city gleamed, its light cascading in waves, illuminating the celestial ocean below.
"I wonder how my mount, Makara, is faring in his penance," Varuna mused aloud, his voice tinged with longing.
"You must have had a difficult time during this period. When you return, you must treat them well," Agni reminded, his tone gentle yet firm.
"Yes... I can't help but overthink it. I don't know what awaits us in Vaikuntha," Varuna admitted, his heart restless.
The Devas shared a moment of quiet emotion. Their mounts had been their steadfast companions for countless ages—creatures bound to them in service and deep, unspoken kinship. To be apart for so long was a weight upon their spirits.
A sigh, deep as the currents of the Kshira Sagara, escaped his lips.
"How long has it been since I last beheld him?"
Suddenly—
Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!
Brilliant streaks of light shot across the vast, shimmering Milky Sea, tearing through space and descending upon Vaikuntha, the city of a thousand gates.
"Narayana Narayana~" A familiar voice rang in the ears of the Devas. Their gazes snapped toward the source.
From the grand gates of Vaikuntha, a lean figure wrapped in orange-red robes emerged, his arms cradling a veena. His steps were light, his presence unmistakable—the messenger sage, Narada Muni, his voice rich with devotion as he praised the Lord.
Surya's eyes widened in mild surprise. Isn't this Narada Muni, the one who was cursed by Indra? He is still in Vaikuntha?
After his infamous curse, Narada had kept a low profile, residing in Vaikuntha as though waiting for the storm to pass. And now, here he was.
"Pranam Narada Muni!" the Devas greeted, clasping their hands together in reverence.
"Pranam Devo!" Narada Muni swayed slightly as he stepped forward, his expression at ease. His eyes flicked across the gathering—then, upon not spotting Indra among them, he discreetly exhaled in relief. Turning to them with a knowing smile, he lifted his hand in welcome.
"Please, come in. Lord Vishnu has been expecting you." At those words, the Devas' eyes gleamed with renewed fervor.
As expected of the Preserver of the Universe—always watchful, always prepared. Without hesitation, they stepped forward, eager to meet the great preserver of the universe.
—
Upon the Serpent Ananta, Vishnu lay in peaceful repose, his form glowing with divine radiance. The vastness of the cosmos stretched beneath him, an endless ocean of stars, while the gentle rise and fall of Adi-Shesha's breaths seemed to hum in harmony with the universe itself.
Vishnu's eyes were closed, his slumber neither deep nor shallow, but in perfect equilibrium—his being suspended between the realms of consciousness and tranquility. A subtle smile lingered on his lip as if he were privy to some secret joy that lay beyond the world's endless cycles.
Beside him, Devi Lakshmi knelt with grace, her presence a soft glow against the night. Her hands, delicate as the petals of a lotus, moved with care and tenderness as she gently massaged Vishnu's legs. Every movement was an act of devotion, her touch speaking volumes more than any words could ever express.
She said nothing, for there was no need. Her love for him was timeless, woven into the very fabric of existence.
For a moment, the world seemed to stand still, as if the very universe paused to watch the quiet exchange of love between them.
As the Devas entered, their voices rose in unison.
"Pranam Bhagwan! Pranam Devi!"
...
The Devas, filled with renewed hope, approached the Preserver of the Worlds, offering their pranam one after another.
Vishnu's eyes fluttered open, his divine gaze falling upon the kneeling figures before him. His smile remained serene, calm, almost detached—yet beneath it lingered a knowing amusement.
"You have lost Svarga," he mused, his voice steady, carrying the weight of inevitability. "And Indra remains amid his penance."
His words resonated through the celestial gathering.
"But fear not. The path forward has already been decided."
His gaze never wavered as he continued, "I shall awaken the King of Svarga—he will lead you to victory."
A ripple of divine certainty passed through the Devas. Even before Vishnu had spoken, they knew his decree was absolute.
Then, his expression softened as he turned toward Devi Lakshmi, the Goddess of Fortune. A rare warmth touched his voice.
"Lakshmi, my beloved, prepare Amrita Bhojana for Indra."
At this, an unexpected shift occurred.
From the sidelines, Narada Muni, who had been standing in quiet observation, suddenly straightened. His ever-present smile wavered, his eyes widening with barely restrained anticipation.
"Amrita Bhojana… the celestial feast beyond mortal comprehension?" he asked, his tone reverent.
The Devas exchanged glances.
Amrita Bhojana?
What kind of divine offering was this?
While confusion settled among them, Devi Lakshmi rose with effortless grace. A knowing smile played on her lips.
"Of course, my Lord," she chuckled, her voice as soothing as the celestial rivers.
Narada's gaze sharpened a flicker of longing in his eyes.
"I once caught its scent… only once," he murmured, lost in memory. "Even from a great distance, its aroma alone stirred an insatiable hunger."
His voice grew quieter, yet his expression turned solemn.
"If the King of Svarga so much as breathes in its fragrance, he will awaken at once."
Silence fell upon the assembly.
The Devas, who had been confused moments ago, now found themselves unconsciously swallowing, their curiosity piqued.
A dish that could awaken Indra from his deep asceticism?
Vishnu's gaze lingered on Lakshmi as she departed, his smile deepening before he turned back to the expectant Devas.
"It will take hundreds of years for Lakshmi to prepare this sacred meal," he stated matter-of-factly. "Until then, uphold the order of the world… and wait patiently."
A stunned silence followed.
The Devas blinked.
Hundreds of years?!
For a moment, their divine minds stalled, teetering between disbelief and resignation.
Vishnu, ever composed, merely smiled.
Surya parted his lips slightly, a flicker of hesitation crossing his face. Beside him, Vayu, the wind Deva, frowned in concern, while Varuna, the lord of waters, remained deep in thought.
Were they going back to work… now?!
"Lord Vishnu," Surya finally spoke, pressing his palms together in supplication. He tilted his head, his golden aura dimming slightly as he pleaded, "If we leave Vaikuntha… what if the Asuras capture us?"
"Yes! If we're caught, then what?!" Vayu added anxiously, tapping his foot against the celestial ground.
He and Varuna still had their duty—to bring rain to the King of Svarga. If they were taken, how would they fulfill their task?
Vishnu merely smiled.
"The penance of your Vahanas is nearing completion," he said, his voice calm yet resolute. "I believe no Asura will be able to capture you." His words hung in the air like the chime of a celestial bell.
The gathered Devas froze, eyes widening in realization. Vishnu's declaration struck them like a thunderclap on a clear sky, shattering their doubts and opening their minds to new possibilities.
Surya's expression lit up. With a triumphant grin, he lifted the golden sash around his waist and clenched his fists in excitement.
"Excellent!" he exclaimed.
The other Devas exchanged eager glances, their initial hesitation now replaced with growing anticipation.
Their sacred mounts resided in Vaikuntha—but if they too received this divine blessing, they would no longer have to fear the Asuras.
"Your wisdom is beyond measure, Lord Vishnu. We shall wait as you have decreed."
"Our thanks, Devi Lakshmi!"
One by one, voices rose in exultation, echoing through Vaikuntha.
…
The Devas devoutly praised Vishnu before making their way to the celestial garden, their hearts light with joy.
Ananta Vana was a paradise of divine beauty—vibrant flowers bloomed in full splendor, emerald grass swayed with the breeze, ancient trees stood tall with lush canopies, and crystal-clear lakes reflected the golden light of Vaikuntha.
Scattered throughout were the sacred mounts of the gods, frolicking in blissful play.
Near the shimmering waters, Airavata and Makara lurked beneath the surface. Suddenly, an elephant trunk burst out of the lake, followed by a crocodile's gaping maw—both creatures unleashing powerful jets of water toward the shore.
Boom! Boom! Boom!
A golden goat, hiding behind a massive black stone, let out a defiant bleat. Now and then, it peeked out and retaliated, spitting fireballs that hissed as they struck the lake's surface.
On the shore, graceful gazelles leaped through the air, nimbly dodging the water jets. Their slender limbs barely touched the ground before springing off again, each jump carrying a howling gust of wind. As they landed, blades of air sliced through the lake, sending ripples through the battlefield of elements.
For a moment, fire, wind, and water clashed in a chaotic yet mesmerizing dance.
Just then, a sharp voice rang out.
"Every time I wake up from meditation, I see you lot playing around again!"
A shadow loomed over the shore. Garuda stood tall, hands on his hips, his proud golden plumage glistening under the celestial sun.
"Prrrrrraaaahhh!"
In response, Airavata let out a loud trumpet, curling his trunk and sucking in vast amounts of water. With a sudden burst, he fired a pressurized water cannon straight at Garuda.
Hummm…
Garuda narrowed his piercing eyes, a smirk curling at the corner of his beak. He was no trickster, no coward—he would never launch a sneak attack.
But if someone dared to attack him first… well, they'd better be prepared for his retribution.
Especially you, Airavata, the mount of Indra
"Airavata! Instead of honoring the penance assigned by Indra and dedicating yourself to penance, you waste your time playing in Vaikuntha!"
"Enough! Today, in the name of righteous Dharma, I shall personally teach you a lesson, on behalf of the King of Svarga!"
"AIRAVATA!!"
AIRAVATA!! AIRAVATA!! AIRAVATA!!
A fierce gust erupted as Garuda spread his mighty wings. Without moving a single step, he flapped once—a howling storm roared forth.
The water blast reversed mid-air, surging back toward its origin! The lake churned violently, massive waves crashing as its surface dipped lower.
Makara, the mighty crocodile, was instantly swept away and flung through the air like a leaf caught in a tempest.
Even Airavata, mighty as he was, staggered on the edge of being blown away. But he fought back, bracing his powerful legs against the divine earth.
"Prrrrrraaaahhh!"
Airavata lifted his trunk, trumpeting in triumph.
But his victory was short-lived.
WHOOSH!
A massive wave of lake water, stirred by Garuda's storm, came crashing down upon him.
---
Chapter 100 Penance of the Mounts
Torrential rain poured down in an instant, drenching Airavata until he resembled a drowned rat. He wasn't the only one—on the shore, the gazelles and Agni devs' vahana goats were also caught in the downpour. Steam rose from their soaked fur, and tendrils of black smoke curled into the air.
Garuda raised his right hand, pointing proudly at the white elephant.
"Airavata! Why aren't you out continuing your penance?" Garuda's voice boomed across the stormy landscape.
"You waste your time here in Vaikuntha," Garuda continued, voice dripping with disdain, "while Indra himself is in deep penance, seeking solutions for the Triloka. And yet, here you are, content, playing like a child, when you should be fulfilling your duty, performing the penance so you can continue your duties."
Hearing this, Airavata shook his massive trunk, then lowered his head and trotted obediently out of the lake.
"Meh! Baa baa!"
The antelopes and goats bleated merrily, their voices filled with cheerful excitement at the sight.
Meanwhile, Varuna dev's mount, Makara, slowly swam back from the vast lake. Watching Airavata's retreating figure, he couldn't help but smile. The great crocodile lifted its head to the sky and released a powerful jet of water. A fine mist spread, veiling the landscape in a shimmering haze.
Wow!
From within the mist, a towering, azure figure emerged onto the shore.
"Makara!"
Makara! Makara! Makara!
A deep, resonant roar rolled across the lake, like distant thunder rumbling through the heavens. Makara's small, sharp eyes widened as he looked toward the blue silhouette.
The other divine mounts, startled, all turned their heads in unison.
The mist thinned, and the figure became clear.
The water dev, Varuna, had arrived. And he was not alone.
One by one, divine figures materialized beside him—the radiant Sun Dev, Surya, the fierce Fire Dev, Agni, and the mighty Wind Dev, Vayu. Their celestial forms radiated overwhelming power, each exuding an aura of divine authority.
The mounts stirred in recognition. Without hesitation, they all moved swiftly to stand before their long-lost friends, rushing to give them warm hugs.
Varuna's face was dark with displeasure. Vayu's expression carried an air of irritation, while Agni's smoldering gaze burned with fury. Their divine wrath reflected in the eyes of their trembling mounts.
Nearby, Surya's gaze fell upon the white elephant lying leisurely in the distance, watching the scene unfold.
It seems their penance will take a while to be completed. Surya nodded slightly, his gaze shifting toward his divine steed.
The magnificent horse lay prostrate on the ground, its wide, unblinking eyes giving it the appearance of a white marble statue—utterly motionless, not even the faintest tremor running through its body. Yet, an immense aura of penance radiated from it, shimmering in the air like golden sunlight.
Surya's lips curled into a satisfied smile.
Boom!
At that moment, the divine steed's accumulated penance seemed to reach its pinnacle.
Boom!
A dazzling burst of golden light erupted from its form, rolling outward in waves like drifting clouds of liquid gold. The brilliance swirled and shimmered, and from within its radiance, a majestic figure began to take shape.
Lord Vishnu had arrived.
With an effortless motion, Vishnu raised his right hand, and a soft golden glow descended upon the haggard horse. As the divine light washed over it, the once-weary steed regained its former glory—its gaunt frame filling out, muscles restored to their prime.
"Your penance is complete."
Vishnu's voice carried a gentle power, both commanding and reassuring.
"Now, tell me—what is your desire?"
The Devs turned in unison, their eyes filled with excitement. Even those who had shown little concern for their own mounts now focused entirely on this divine horse, sensing the significance of the moment.
Surya, filled with anticipation, wasted no time.
"Make it faster than all Asuras!" he declared.
Hissssssss~
The white horse rose swiftly to its feet, shaking its head and letting out a powerful neigh that echoed across the celestial plane.
Vishnu's smile deepened. Raising his right hand once more, he summoned a streak of golden radiance and let it cascade down, enveloping the horse in a divine glow.
"As you wish!"
As you wish! As you wish! As you wish!
Vishnu's voice resonated across Vaikuntha, the echoes rippling through the vast divine realm. The celestial brilliance danced across the surface of the Milk Ocean as if even the heavens themselves rejoiced in the blessing bestowed by Lord Vishnu.
The divine horse reared up on its hind legs, its flowing mane whipping through the air as it let out a triumphant, sky-shaking neigh.
Power surged through its body—an invisible yet undeniable force of divine speed and might.
Surya's eyes gleamed with delight. "Incredible! With this steed, we will never again fear the Asuras!"
"Exactly!" Agni grinned. "And Surya, when you take it for a ride, be sure to let me come along!"
"Count me in!" Vayu added with a smirk.
"And me as well!" Varuna chimed in hastily.
With a horse that no Asura could ever hope to catch, the Devs would never again need to flee in desperation.
Surya chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "Fine, fine! With this steed, we will outrun any Asura!"
Vishnu watched with quiet satisfaction, his golden light still illuminating the heavens.
Everything had been set in motion, step by step.
Now, only one task remained—
It was time to awaken the King of Svarga.
...
Time flowed like a river, ever-changing and relentless.
Centuries passed.
In Svarga, the Asuras Madhu and Kaitabha toiled in relentless penance, seeking to amass enough power to summon Brahma himself.
On the throne of Svarga, the horse-headed Asura lounged with his eyes closed, basking in the indulgent luxuries of the celestial realm.
The Ocean of Milk
A divine fragrance filled the air, thick and intoxicating, its sacred aroma permeating the vast expanse of the Milky Ocean. One by one, the Devs turned their heads, their expressions a mix of awe and delight.
Garuda spread his mighty wings, his keen senses overwhelmed by the divine scent. Even the ever-composed Narada paused, closing his eyes to savor the fragrance, inhaling deeply as though the very essence of the cosmos had taken form.
The Amrita Bhojona was ready.
With a radiant smile, Devi Lakshmi stepped forward, carrying a massive golden plate. On it, an array of small, glistening golden bowls lay arranged like the petals of a blooming lotus. Each bowl held a celestial dish—pure white rice, fragrant turmeric curry, soft puri bread, and delicate milk cakes, their sweetness enriched by divine nectar.
A faint glow of ethereal light shimmered around the sacred meal, its presence stirring something deep within every deity present. Even the most powerful divine beings, those who had long been immune to mortal temptations, could not suppress the overwhelming hunger rising within them.
This was beyond Soma wine—this was something more divine, more irresistible.
"Take it to Kailasha and awaken the King of Svarga," Lakshmi commanded, her voice serene yet absolute. A soft radiance glowed between her brows, a mark of her boundless grace.
The Sun God, Surya, swallowed hard, his eyes fixed upon the divine feast. He clenched his fists, suppressing the primal desire surging within him, and reached for the plate with trembling hands.
Just as he turned to leave—
"Wait."
Lakshmi smiled, withdrawing a piece of crimson cloth. With a graceful motion, she covered the sacred meal and whispered, "Only Indra may lift this veil. Now go, swiftly."
Surya nodded solemnly, understanding the significance of the act. With renewed focus, he took the plate and turned toward his destination.
But as he soared through the heavens, he could feel the weight of countless eyes upon him. The Devs, riding their celestial mounts across the sky, struggled to keep their thoughts clear. Their vigilance faltered, and their divine resolve wavered.
None could resist.
Their gazes were fixated on the plate in Surya's hands—on the sacred meal that called to them like a whisper from the heavens.
And one by one, they swallowed their longing, fighting the temptation that threatened to consume them.
For something far greater was about to unfold.
...
The divine mounts, too, were not immune to temptation. They slowed their flight, their heads turning toward the holy meal as if drawn by an invisible force.
Surya's sun horse sniffed the air incessantly, its head held high, nose twitching as it tried to catch every wisp of the sacred aroma. It was so entranced that it barely paid attention to where it was flying.
Airavata, the celestial elephant, had no shame whatsoever. With a heavy grunt, he sidled up next to Surya's Ashvins, his massive form pushing in close. Then, extending his trunk toward the red-cloth-covered meal, he took a deep, greedy inhale.
Hnnnnnnhhh!
At that moment, another streak of orange light flashed through the sky. The Devs turned their heads.
Descending with effortless grace was none other than Narada, the messenger sage!
"Narayana Narayana~!"
Narada Muni floated toward the gathering, his ever-present smile beaming as he joined the crowd of deities.
Surya furrowed his brows. "Narada Muni, why are you here?" he asked, perplexed.
Narada chuckled, strumming his veena with a playful shake of his head. Then, with an utterly shameless grin, he confessed, "The Amrita Bhojona smells too divine—I was hoping to ask Indra for just a little bit of food!"
His words rang out with such unfiltered honesty that they echoed through the heavens.
The Devs froze.
"!!!"
Surya glanced down at the golden plate beneath the crimson veil. A dry gulp escaped his throat. "If Indra would share just a little of his food… I wouldn't mind a taste either," he muttered.
"Actually… I kind of want to try it too," Agni admitted, his gaze locked onto the plate.
The air grew thick with unspoken desire.
"The Amrita Bhojona is only necessary to awaken Indra, as he is the King of Svarga," Surya continued, his voice carrying an edge of frustration. "Wouldn't he, as the king, share just a little bit with me? I, his younger brother have as much stake in this feast as he does."
Agni chimed in, his voice tinged with longing. "And I, too, have a claim! I serve the fires that guide the Homa to Svarga. Surely, there's a part for me, too."
The Devs, the celestial Vahanas, even the Muni like Narada themselves—all their hearts beat in unison with the same hunger. They could feel the weight of the sacred meal's allure.
And yet, they knew…
Only Indra could lift the veil.
---
Chapter 101 Stubborn Plate
"It's worth it if you can taste even a single grain of rice!" Agni swallowed his saliva, eyes locked onto the covered plate. The rich aroma of the divine meal teased his senses, making his stomach churn with anticipation.
"How about a taste?" he suggested his voice barely above a whisper.
"The King of Svarga shouldn't mind. We are all good brothers, after all," Vayu chimed in, his gaze shifting between the plate and the others.
Surya hesitated, his hands twitching at his sides. His golden eyes darted toward the plate, then back at the gathering of devas.
"Hmm... Just one bite. Only one!"
Narada Muni grinned, mischief dancing in his eyes as he hugged his veena close. His tongue flicked across his lips before he added, "I want to taste it too! Hurry, open it!"
"If we each take a small bite, no one will notice," Vayu said, glancing around conspiratorially.
The devas looked at one another, hesitation giving way to shared understanding.
And then—
In an instant, they moved as one, closing in on the plate like a pack of starved wolves.
"Airavata, go wait outside! I'll give you a bite later!"
Vayu shoved the great white elephant aside before he could protest and squeezed himself into the circle of devas.
Airavata blinked his large, watery eyes in confusion. With a deep, rumbling "Rrrrmmphh…", he extended his trunk, trying to slip it past the devas.
But before he could reach the dish, they blocked him with practiced ease.
"Brrrrrraaoooohhh!" Airavata let out a loud, frustrated trumpet, his ears flapping wildly. He stomped his massive foot, the ground trembling beneath him.
With a desperate "Hruuummph! Pwaaaaargh!", he tried again, his trunk writhing in determination. But once more, the devas held their ground.
Airavata huffed loudly, curling his trunk in disappointment. He let out a long, sorrowful "Hrrrrooooooo…," his deep, guttural groan echoing like a distant thundercloud.
Finally, he slumped down slightly, his enormous shoulders sagging. A final, pitiful "Brrrrrrmm…" escaped him, filled with unspoken longing and tragic defeat.
Surya stretched out his hand, his fingers brushing against the red cloth covering the plate. The moment he tugged—
Nothing happened.
Frowning, he pulled again, harder this time. But the cloth refused to move, as though the weight of the heavens itself pinned it down.
A hush fell over the group. Shock flashed across the faces of the assembled devas. Surya, second only to Indra, the King of Svarga, narrowed his eyes.
"Everyone, step back!" he commanded, his voice filled with authority.
His golden aura flared as he gathered the blazing essence of the sun into his palm. Light condensed into a fiery sphere as if a second sun had been summoned to Svarga. With a powerful swing, he unleashed the solar energy at the plate—
Blinding golden flames engulfed the red cloth. The heat rippled across the skies, making even the air tremble under its intensity. The divine brilliance scorched the ground beneath them, illuminating the devas with a fiery glow.
And yet—
The moment the golden light touched the red cloth, it vanished. Extinguished in an instant. The cloth remained utterly still, untouched, unaffected.
Surya's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Impossible! My flames can incinerate the seas, melt the hardest metals, and reduce mountains to dust. How could they be snuffed out so easily!"
The devas exchanged uneasy glances.
Stepping forward, the Varuna rolled his shoulders, his expression calm but determined. "Let me try."
Without hesitation, he raised his hands and pressed them firmly against the cloth, summoning the relentless force of water—
Boom!
The land trembled as a torrent of water surged skyward, an unstoppable force carrying the might to drown both Svarga and the mortal realm. The blackened waves swelled like an unholy deluge, blotting out the sun and sky as they surged toward the red cloth.
For a moment, it seemed as if nothing could withstand the overwhelming flood—
And then—
With a single ripple, the red cloth fluttered ever so slightly.
The water vanished. Not dissipated. Not absorbed. Simply gone, as if the flood had never existed in the first place.
"How?!"
Varuna stood frozen, his trident trembling in his grip. His mind reeled. This was impossible. His divine waters could carve valleys, drown cities, and erode even the hardest of stones. Yet now—nothing. Not even a single drop remained.
His breath caught in his throat. "No way… I—I wield the endless ocean, the tides that shape the world! How can mere cloth—?" His voice trailed off, swallowed by the heavy silence that followed.
A gust of wind stirred, carrying embers in its wake.
"Enough stalling, Varuna!" Vayu's voice cut through the air, sharp as the storm he commanded. His robes billowed as he strode forward, eyes blazing with resolve. "We will not be bested by a mere piece of fabric!"
"Agreed," Agni growled, tightening his grip on his staff. His body radiated scorching heat, the air around him shimmering with divine flames. "If water cannot touch it, then let us see how it fares against the combination of wind and fire!"
Divine power surged. The very air crackled with intensity.
A towering inferno exploded forth—a fiery tornado, blazing hot enough to incinerate the very fabric of reality. From within its depths, a colossal flaming naga emerged, coiling and writhing, its molten fangs bared as it roared. With a final, furious lunge, it shot toward the red cloth.
Zsssss
The naga vanished. Gone in an instant. All that remained was a faint wisp of blue smoke, curling into the air.
The plate beneath the cloth trembled slightly. Then, as if mockingly responding to their efforts, the aroma of the Amrita Bhojana intensified, its rich, intoxicating scent filling the air, making the devas' mouths water.
Boom!
Silence fell.
The devas stood motionless, stunned into speechlessness.
They had failed.
They had thrown the full force of their celestial might against the red cloth—and it hadn't even budged.
"Tch...!" Narada Muni blinked, then sighed, clapping his hands together with a wry smile. "Looks like the Devi Lakshmi was prepared for this. We won't be getting a taste after all." He shook his head in mock regret before grinning. "Well, no use crying over it! Let's go to Kailasha. At least we can still get some leftovers!"
One by one, the devas sighed in frustration, their shoulders slumping. Accepting their defeat, they turned away and took to the skies, flying toward Kailasha in resignation.
Their grand attempt had ended in utter failure. The red cloth remained—unshaken, untouchable.
And the Amrita Bhojana beneath it? Still waiting, untouched, its divine aroma lingering in the air like a silent taunt.
…
Kailasha.
The sacred mountains stood tall, their peaks piercing the heavens, shrouded in mist and divine energy. Within this celestial realm, Shiva and Parvati walked side by side, their steps slow and unhurried, as if time itself bowed before them.
Not far behind, Nandi, the sacred bull, followed faithfully, his large eyes brimming with devotion. A gentle smile adorned his face, never once looking away from his beloved Mahadev and Devi.
Wow!
Without warning, tiny raindrops began to fall, cascading from the sky in a gentle, glistening sheet.
Parvati gasped softly, her eyes widening in surprise. She stretched out her delicate hand, letting the cool droplets gather in her palm.
Rain? In Kailasha?
It never rained here. And even if it did, they had nothing to fear from it. But that wasn't the point—
Something felt different.
"Oh, my Dev!"
Parvati turned to Shiva, her beautiful face lighting up with playful excitement. With a sudden, impassioned movement, she pressed herself into his arms, tilting her head up to meet his gaze.
"What should we do if it rains? Should we go home?"
Her pink lips parted slightly as she spoke, her usual cool and regal demeanor melting into something softer—more mischievous. She clung to him, acting coquettish, teasing in a way only she could.
Shiva chuckled, his expression calm and knowing as if he had already unraveled the mystery behind the sudden downpour.
Gently, he wrapped an arm around Parvati.
Uh-huh!
In an instant, the world around them shifted. Space twisted, the mountains and rain fading away—
And when the light cleared, they were standing high above the clouds. A vast sea of vibrant, swirling colors stretched endlessly beneath them, shimmering like a celestial dream.
Here, no rain could reach them.
Shiva smiled. "There will be no rain here."
Parvati blinked, momentarily caught off guard.
Then, her gaze flickered downward, her brow furrowing slightly.
"The rain… It was caused by Airavata." Her voice was softer now, the playful edge giving way to something more contemplative.
Shiva followed her gaze, his own eyes steady. "The devas have come to Kailasha. They seek their king, Indra."
Parvati's expression cooled. Her gaze shifted, sharp and knowing, toward the place of Indra's penance. And yet—
The very next moment, a new sensation interrupted their thoughts.
A rich, intoxicating aroma drifted through the air, curling around them like an invisible whisper. Both Shiva and Parvati inhaled, their noses twitching slightly— Their eyes flickered.
…
At last, the devas laid eyes upon the King they had longed for.
"Indra!"
Surya stood at the forefront, holding the sacred meal in his hands. His radiant gaze locked onto the figure resting upon the massive rock before them—Indra, King of Svarga.
"Brrrrrraaoooohhh!" Airavata, the mighty, white elephant, lifted his head proudly, raising his long, elegant trunk. A powerful cry echoed from his throat, ringing through the skies like the call of a great conch shell, its resonance stretching endlessly into the distance.
Varuna took a step forward, his brows furrowed. "King of Svarga, awaken!" His voice carried the weight of the sun itself. "Your kingdom—your home—has fallen!"
Vayu, the swift wind god, stepped forward, his robes billowing as he called out, "Big Brother Indra! The Asuras have seized Svarga!
Agni's fiery eyes softened. "You are not just our King—you are our elder brother. If you do not rise, then who shall?"The voices of the devas rang in unison, their praise filling the air.
Yet—
Indra's eyes did not stir. He lay still upon the great rock, unmoving, as if he were a part of Kailasha Mountain itself—steadfast, unshaken, inviolable.
Not a flicker of response.
Indra rested on his side, one arm propped beneath his head, his face serene. His eyes remained closed, his expression utterly relaxed, a faint smile lingering at the corners of his lips—completely untouched by worry, sorrow, or the fervent calls of his kin.
"The King of Svarga must have fallen into deep meditation. Awakening him… will not be easy." A calm yet knowing voice broke through the reverent silence. The devas turned.
Stepping forward was Rishi Dadhichi.
Draped in simple red robes, he carried a wooden staff, his pace slow, deliberate. His weathered eyes studied Indra carefully. As an ascetic, he understood this state of profound meditation all too well. Such a trance was not easily broken.
"Rishivar, we need to awaken the King of Svarga! "Svarga has fallen into the hands of the Asuras. They have taken our halls, our lands—our very home. Without Indra, we cannot defeat them."
Surya's voice was firm, unwavering. He raised the sacred offering high, the golden plate gleaming in the divine light.
"The Devi Lakshmi has bestowed upon us the Amrita Bhojana. Surely, this will awaken him!"
At these words, Dadichi's gaze shifted. His sharp eyes fell upon the golden plate in Surya's hands.
His nostrils flared slightly—
A rich, divine fragrance surged toward him, hitting his very soul like a wave of celestial power. His expression wavered. Could this truly awaken Indra?
BOOM!
At that moment, it felt as if something had struck his very soul.
Dadichi's expression shifted rapidly, as though his mind was being bombarded from within—shock, awe, disbelief, and a hint of reverence flickered across his face in rapid succession.
His once-calm eyes widened, trembling with newfound realization. "The… Amrita Bhojana?!"
His voice quivered, barely above a whisper. "A meal this divine… I fear not even the most disciplined ascetics could resist its power."
Dadichi's words sent a ripple through the gathered devas and Narada muni. Their confidence swelled.
Excitement flickered in their eyes. Smiles crept onto their faces. Perhaps… just perhaps… this offering could awaken the King of Svarga! And if they were lucky—maybe they could even partake in the feast!
BOOM!
The golden plate was gently placed upon the massive stone.
The devas and saints pressed their hands together in prayer, their gazes locked onto Indra, their hearts filled with solemn anticipation.
Yet—
Indra remained unchanged. His peaceful smile lingered, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. But then—
His eyelids twitched. His eyes rolled beneath them, as though he had slipped deeper into his slumber. He was dreaming. Inside the Dream
A golden plate, its radiant wings fluttering, drifted toward him, gliding through the dreamscape like a celestial offering.
Indra gazed at the single golden plate before him, his smirk fading into a frown. The dal, chaval, puris, and fruits sat neatly arranged, glowing with divine purity, yet—
"Just one plate?"
His golden brows furrowed, and he tapped his fingers against his arm in irritation.
"Am I not Indra, King of Svarga?"
His voice rang with both amusement and disbelief.
"A single plate of food? This is the meal of a hermit, not a king! Do they expect me to sit cross-legged like a mortal, content with a bowl of rice and lentils?"
A scoff left his lips. "No, no, this isn't right. "I was… meditating. I know what's happening here." A slow smirk returned to his face as he realized the truth.
"This is a dream." His eyes gleamed with playful defiance. "And if it's a dream, then I refuse to settle for this! I am Indra! I feast like a king, not a mortal!" A single thought pulsed through his mind, his will shaping the very fabric of the dream.
Chhappan Bhog!
WHOOSH!
The golden plate trembled, its edges blurring—then, as if answering his call, a grand banquet appeared before him.
Fifty-six dishes, each plated in bowls of shimmering gold, spread out in an endless feast. Fragrant saffron-infused rice sat alongside delicately spiced vegetable curries, golden-fried puris stacked high, and creamy, fragrant kheer. An array of sweets—laddoos, pedas, malpua, and syrup-soaked jalebis—glistened with honey and ghee. Fresh fruits, cooling yogurt-based dishes, and rich makhan mishri completed the celestial offering, truly fit for a king.
Indra leaned back, satisfied. "Now, this is more like it."
With a contented sigh, he picked up a silver spoon, ready to indulge in his well-deserved royal feast.
---
Chapter 102 Scent of Temptation
Indra leaned back, silver spoon in hand, ready to indulge in his well-deserved feast. Before him, the Chhappan Bhog gleamed with divine radiance, each dish a testament to his status as the King of Svarga. He smirked, pleased with how effortlessly he had reshaped the dream to his desires.
He took a bite—warm, fragrant, rich with ghee and saffron. Perfection.
But as he lifted his spoon for another, a flicker of doubt crossed his mind. The golden plate before him shimmered, its edges blurring like ripples on water. The puris stacked high, the sweets glistening with syrup—everything looked too perfect, too vivid, too unreal.
Indra frowned.
A thought, unbidden, whispered through his mind: Is this a dream? Or… something else?
His grip on the spoon tightened.
The feast wavered. The aroma dulled. The golden plate trembled, and suddenly—
It was gone.
Cold, hard reality snapped into place. No luxurious cushions. No celestial banquet. No divine feast. Only the rough, unyielding stone beneath him and the crisp air of Kailasha stung his skin.
Indra sat cross-legged, breath steady, mind reaching toward the divine.
Yet before him, a single golden plate hovered once more, laden with dal, chaval, puris, and fruits—neatly arranged, glowing with purity.
The sight stirred his appetite. Instinctively, he flicked his wrist, summoning a golden spoon. He scooped a bite, savoring the taste. It was simple. Humble. Yet, inexplicably, it filled him with something deeper than mere indulgence.
"It tastes… good," he murmured, almost in surprise.
The plate floated beside him, the curry within shimmering, circling him as if teasing, tempting—
Indra's eyes widened.
Wait… this has happened before.
His pulse quickened, unease coiling in his chest. The flickering glow, the shifting sensations—was this another dream? Had he truly awakened, or was he simply slipping into another illusion?
The golden plate wavered again, its glow dimming. The food, once so fragrant, turned translucent, dissolving like mist under the morning sun.
Indra shut his eyes, exhaling slowly. No more illusions. No more deception.
This was not Svarga. Not a feast. Not a king's indulgence.
He was in Kailasha.
And perhaps… this was yet another attempt to disturb his penance.
A quiet resolve settled over him as he let go of the illusion. This time, he would not be swayed.
...
"Why haven't you woken up yet, big brother?"
Surya furrowed his brows, confusion flickering in his golden eyes as he turned to Rishi Dadhichi beside him.
Dadhichi, his expression tense, stared wide-eyed at the sacred feast hidden beneath the red cloth. His throat bobbed as he swallowed hard, unable to suppress his reaction to the overwhelming aroma. Yet, instead of reaching for the meal, he turned his gaze toward Indra.
There, upon the stone bed, the King of Svarga lay motionless. His brow creased with a solemn resolve as if he were actively resisting the divine allure of the Amrita Bhojana.
"As expected of the man recorded his wisdom in the Vedas... To suppress even the temptation of Amrita Bhojana!"
Pressing his palms together, Dadhichi exhaled deeply. Awe and reverence filled his voice, but beneath it lingered something more—a tinge of guilt, a realization that his asceticism was still lacking.
"Narayana, Narayana~"
A familiar voice rang out, laced with mischief.
"Why not lift the red cloth together?" Narada Muni suggested, strumming his Veena as he inhaled deeply, savoring the divine scent. "Surely, that would only make the taste even sweeter."
The mere thought sent a ripple of unease through the gathered deities. Surya, Agni, Vayu, and Varuna fixed their gazes upon the veiled meal, their faces taut with the same caution one would reserve for a dreaded Asura King.
"I'll help!" Soma declared, stepping forward.
"So will I!" Rishi Dadhichi echoed.
Without hesitation, the devas and sages raised their hands in unison. A brilliant surge of energy erupted—seven dazzling hues intertwining, forming a radiant, rainbow-like force that shot toward the crimson veil.
Prrrrrr!!!
From a distance, Airavata flapped his mighty ears, his trunk rising high before unleashing a powerful spray of water. The celestial mounts stirred, their roars and cries blending with the rushing winds and crackling flames, each force converging in an unyielding effort to unveil the sacred feast.
Yet, the red cloth remained undisturbed.
Instead, an even richer, more intoxicating fragrance burst forth, sweeping over them like an unstoppable tide.
The devas, rishis, and celestial mounts froze, their bodies stiffening as the divine aroma of the Amrita Bhojana filled the air. Eyes widened, mouths watered—some even leaned forward unconsciously, drawn in by the overwhelming scent.
Even Airavata let out a deep, rumbling breath, his trunk twitching toward the food. Surya's Ashwas stomped their hooves impatiently, and Garuda, despite his sharp discipline, flicked his tongue over his beak.
Yet, at the center of it all, Indra sat unmoved.
His expression was calm, his breathing steady, as if he were completely unaware of the feast before him.
"What the—?!" Vayu muttered, rubbing his nose as if that would somehow dull the temptation. "How is he not reacting to this? I'm barely holding myself back!"
"Forget reacting, he's not even flinching," Agni added, his usual fiery tone laced with disbelief. "Does he even realize what's in front of him?"
Rishi Dadhichi exhaled slowly, shaking his head. "He knows. That's the thing… he knows, and yet he chooses not to care."
The devas exchanged uneasy glances.
"So what do we do?" Soma finally asked.
Dadhichi sighed. "Nothing. You can't wake him up unless Indra completes his tapasya."
A heavy silence fell over the gathering. The celestial meal, still radiating divine energy, no longer seemed as tempting.
And still, Indra remained motionless.
...
Meanwhile, in Vaikuntha…
A ripple spread across the infinite ocean of milk. The great serpent Shesha stirred, his countless hoods shifting as if sensing the disturbance in the cosmic balance.
Lord Vishnu, reclining upon the serpent's coils, slowly opened his eyes. His gaze, deep as the endless sky, turned toward Mount Kailasha, his expression calm yet contemplative.
Was this truly possible?
Even he, the Preserver of Dharma, was bound by cosmic law. Hayagriva had seized Svarga through a rightful challenge, and by the rules that governed the universe, Vishnu could not simply undo what had been done.
To interfere directly would mean disrupting the sacred order.
Yet, in all his divine foresight, he could sense the ripples of fate twisting in unforeseen ways. This was not just a matter of celestial politics—there was something greater at play.
"Narayan?"
Lakshmi's voice was soft yet steady, her presence beside him radiating warmth. He turned to her, finding her eyes filled with quiet understanding.
"The path is uncertain," he admitted. "For the first time in ages, I must wait."
Lakshmi placed a hand upon his. "Even the Preserver must let the universe unfold."
Vishnu exhaled, his fingers lightly tracing the rim of his Shankha. The weight of uncertainty was rare, even for him. But one thing was certain—Indra's tapasya would decide everything.
...
"What an enchanting fragrance."
A calm yet commanding voice cut through the tension.
The devas froze. Recognition flashed across their faces, and as if drawn by an unseen force, they turned in unison toward the source of that unmistakable presence.
Swish!
He stood before them.
On one hand, a Trishul gleamed with an otherworldly radiance. A damaru hung loosely from its shaft, its silent rhythm echoing in the very fabric of existence. His form, draped in the rugged skin of a tiger, exuded the raw, untamed power of calm, focus, and destruction.
Wild, matted locks cascaded over his shoulders, framing a face both serene and fearsome. His throat, deep blue as the Halahala, bore the mark of his divine sacrifice.
But most striking of all—at the center of his forehead—the Third Eye of Destruction remained ever-watchful, though firmly shut.
Mahadev Shiva had arrived.
Beside him stood the radiant Devi Parvati, her presence both noble and ethereal, her divine beauty unmatched.
"Pranam, Mahadev!"
"Pranam, Devi Parvati!"
One by one, the devas bowed in reverence, their voices rising in unison.
...
Even the celestial mount bowed its massive form, lowering to the ground in deference. The entire peak seemed to be still as Mahadev's sharp gaze locked onto the golden plate beneath the red cloth. Without hesitation, he stepped forward, his presence alone commanding the attention of all.
Devi Parvati followed closely behind. A sense of unease rippled through the gathering.
Oh no… Does Mahadev intend to eat it too?! Shiva reached for the cloth.
Swish!
With a single effortless motion, the red veil lifted into the air.
BOOM!
A blinding golden light burst forth like a divine explosion, radiating in all directions. The devas gasped, instinctively shielding their eyes from its overwhelming brilliance.
But Shiva remained unfazed. He picked up the golden plate, a small, knowing smile playing on his lips. Taking a handful of the sacred rice, he gently placed it into his mouth and closed his eyes.
At that moment—
A vision of Vishnu appeared before him. Mahadev's expression softened. A deep, indescribable warmth spread through him as he savored the celestial taste.
Beside him, Devi Parvati reached out. She plucked a single grain of rice between her slender fingers and placed it delicately upon her lips. The instant it touched her tongue, her eyes widened with joy, her brows lifting in sheer delight.
Before anyone could react—
The Amrita Bhojana was gone.
The devas stood frozen in shock.
Surya furrowed his brows. "The Amrita Bhojana… has vanished!" His radiant glow dimmed slightly in disbelief.
Vayu let out a low whistle. "Well… Mahadev certainly doesn't hesitate." He crossed his arms, a smirk tugging at his lips. "But what happens now?"
Rishi Dadhichi exhaled, shaking his head. "Fate moves in ways beyond our understanding. Indra remains in his meditation, and now… There is not even a grain left for him—or anyone else."
Soma paled, his usually luminous form flickering. "The Amirta bhojana… it looked so delicious. And yet, we did not even get a taste." His voice held a tinge of sorrow.
Narada Muni plucked at his veena, his tone half-amused, half-exasperated. "Hmm… Mahadev devours the Amrita Bhojana while the rest of us go hungry—truly, a cosmic jest!" He sighed dramatically. "Not a single grain left for the rest of us… what a tragedy!"
A murmur of unease—and disappointment—spread through the gathering.
But Shiva…
He was lost in the lingering taste of the divine meal.
Then—
Boom! Boom! Boom!
His body swayed. The sacred aroma still clung to the air, wrapping around him like an intoxicating melody. His arms lifted, his feet moved—instinctively, effortlessly.
Without hesitation—
Mahadev began to dance. The sky trembled.
The springs of Kailasha chimed like temple bells. The wind whispered through the trees, rustling the leaves in rhythm. The very earth seemed to sing along, drawn into the divine pulse of his movements.
The devas stood in awe, transfixed.
This was not the Tandava of destruction, but the Ananda Nartanam, the Dance of Divine Bliss.
Figures emerged from Shiva's divine rhythm—some lifting their legs, others raising their arms, their heads tilting back in exaltation. One by one, they were drawn into the flow, surrendering to the celestial harmony.
Countless sacred winds—shimmering in shades of violet, pale gold, soft green, and deep aqua—spiraled upward, swirling through the vast sky like celestial ribbons.
"The Ananda Nartanam… The dance of joy!"
Parvati gazed toward the heavens, her voice filled with emotion.
When Shiva danced in rage, the world quaked. But when he danced in bliss, the cosmos itself rejoiced.
"To witness this… is to glimpse the heartbeat of creation itself." Rishi Dadhichi pressed his palms together in reverence, his voice trembling with awe.
"What a dance… a rhythm so pure, even time itself pauses to listen." Narada, his expression dazed with admiration, swayed slightly as if intoxicated by the sight.
The devas, too, stood spellbound, their eyes fixed upon Lord Shiva's divine movements.
And th, n the dance came to an end.
Silence fell.
Shiva's smile was serene, his presence radiant. The devas lifted their gaze toward the sky—toward something new. Shiva's expression brightened as his eyes landed upon a massive, snow-white boulder. A soft chuckle escaped him.
Atop the great stone—
Indra sat cross-legged, his posture steady. His eyes were downcast, brows slightly furrowed in deep contemplation.
But inwardly—
What just happened?!
A strange sensation lingered in his mind. Had he been so deep in meditation that he missed something extraordinary?
And just like that, he had woken up! Before he could make sense of it all, a familiar voice called out to him.
Shiva. His sacred right hand lifted toward the sky. "Indra!"
The devas stirred, their voices rising in a chorus.
"Indra! Indra! Indra!"
The echoes rang through Kailasha and Indra's ears.
---
Enjoyed the chapter?
You can read 40 chapters ahead and gain exclusive access to even more content over at P*treon.c*m/Marioni! With over 128 chapters of exclusive content, there's plenty more for you to explore!
