CHAPTER 35: Angel in the form of Demoness!

Time had to be rolled back several years to learn about Aryaman’s aka Mrutyunjay’s origin when he was still a young boy enjoying the cozy life of a Prince in Asurloka that was ruled by his proud and arrogant father, Rajaveera.

The asuras were in the constant habit of glorifying themselves and condemning the Devas whom they considered as their adversaries.  They had created an impression in which they firmly believed that if they do not win over the Devas a time may come when they may have to face complete annihilation at their hands and lead the lives of slaves.

Thus, before such an eventuality became a stark reality, the Asuras wanted to defeat the Devas and win Devaloka.

At that time, Mrutyunjay also felt the same way and he supported his father.  Rajaveera was engaged in a couple of battles with the Devas but in each of those attempts, he had to taste defeat.  Owing to the large heartedness of his enemy, his life was spared.

Rajaveera could not bear this humiliation and decided to avenge his defeat.  The third battle proved even more futile as he was injured in the battlefield, which caused much concern and instilled a sense of vengeance among his men.

Yet again, the asura King was spared with a stern warning that any such future misadventure would not be tolerated upon.

Later, Mrutyunjay met his mother Mandira and expressed his anger, “Look what they done to my father!  These devas must be taught a lesson!    Some day I shall avenge my father’s defeat, mother!”

Despite being a demoness, Mandira looked charming with her long hairs, amber eyebrows, deep-set eyes and well-shaped lips.  She was of a dark complexion.

The Queen made her son sit beside her and shared her feelings with him, “My son, if you think from the right perspective, is it proper to eye other’s territory?  Why can’t we be happy with what we have and do our duty honorably?  

If what we fear of the Devas making us their slaves holds any element of authenticity in it, they could have done that after defeating your father thrice in battle!  Your father and all the others feel that his life was spared to humiliate him and humble his pride! 

My son, there are always two ways to look at every aspect in life.  I attribute their action to their magnanimity. 

Had we maintained good relations with them, would things have come to such a pass today?  My child, hatred and vengeance always leads to disastrous consequences.  On the other hand, love and friendship spreads the fragrance of happiness and peace everywhere around.

We always accuse the Gods of unduly favoring the Devas.  If this is true, then why are they being referred to as Gods in the first place?  Can the Supreme Being ever be biased towards anyone?  T

he Gods favor the Devas because their thoughts are pure and pious.  Their actions are always guided by their conscience while ours are always marred by our selfish desires and preferences.  Think about it, my child!”

These words of his mother left Mrutyunjay thinking.  After a few moments, he asked her, “Have you ever conveyed these thoughts to father?”

“I did on a couple of occasions.  However, he would not listen to me!  This is what arrogance does, my child!  It mars your sane thinking and gives you a feeling that you are above everyone!”