terrible
Danavas fell in large numbers by the arrows of the wise Mahasena. And
then a panic seized them, and the followers of Skanda began to slay and
eat them up by thousands and drink their blood. And they joyously
exterminated the Danavas in no time, just as the sun destroys darkness,
or as fire destroys a forest, or as the winds drive away the clouds. And
in this manner the famous Skanda defeated all his enemies. And the gods
came to congratulate him, and he, in turn, paid his respects to
Maheswara. And that son of Krittika looked grand like the sun in all the
glory of his effulgence. And when the enemy was completely defeated by
Skanda and when Maheswara left the battle-field, Purandara embraced
Mahasena and said to him, 'This Mahisha, who was made invincible by the
favour of Brahma hath been killed by thee. O best of warriors, the gods
were like grass to him. O strong-limbed hero, thou hast removed a thorn
of the celestials. Thou hast killed in battle hundreds of Danavas equal
in valour to Mahisha who were all hostile to us, and who used to harass
us before. And thy followers too have devoured them by hundreds. Thou
art, O mighty being, invincible in battle like Uma's lord; and this
victory shall be celebrated as thy first achievement, and thy fame shall
be undying in the three worlds. And, O strong-armed god, all the gods
will yield their allegiance to thee.' Having spoken thus to Mahasena, the
husband of Sachi left the place accompanied by the gods and with the
permission of the adorable three-eyed god (Siva). And Rudra returned to
Bhadravata, and the celestials too returned to their respective abodes.
And Rudra spoke, addressing the gods, 'Ye must render allegiance to
Skanda just as ye do unto me.' And that son of the Fire-god, having
killed the Danavas hath conquered the three worlds, in one day, and he
hath been worshipped by the great Rishis. The Brahmana who with due
attention readeth this story of the birth of Skanda, attaineth to great
prosperity in this world and the companionship of Skanda hereafter."

Yudhishthira said, "O good and adorable Brahmana, I wish to know the
different names of that high-souled being, by which he is celebrated
throughout the three worlds."

Vaisampayana continued, "Thus addressed by the Pandava in that assembly
of Rishis, the worshipful Markandeya of high ascetic merit replied,
'Agneya (Son of Agni), Skanda (Cast-off), Diptakirti (Of blazing fame),
Anamaya (Always hale), May