Blessed be ye. Listen to these true
words, you foremost of heroes in the world. Observant of Kshatriya
duties, I will fight with my maternal uncle, you lords of Earth, firmly
resolved to either obtain victory or be slain. Let them that furnish cars
quickly supply my vehicle, according to the rules of science, with
weapons and all kinds of implements in a larger measure than Shalya's.
The grandson of Sini will protect my right wheel, and Dhrishtadyumna my
left. Let Pritha's son Dhananjaya guard my rear today. And let Bhima,
that foremost of all wielders of weapons, fight in my front. I shall thus
be superior to Shalya in the great battle that will occur." Thus
addressed by the king, all his well-wishers did as they were requested.
Then the Pandava troops once more became filled with joy, especially the
Pancalas, the Somakas and the Matsyas. Having made that vow, the king
proceeded against the ruler of the Madras. The Pancalas then blew and
beat innumerable conchs and drums and uttered leonine roars. Endued with
great activity and filled with rage, they rushed, with loud shouts of
joy, against the ruler of the Madras, that bull among the Kurus. And they
caused the Earth to resound with the noise of the elephants' bells, and
the loud blare of conchs and trumpets. Then thy son and the valiant ruler
of the Madras, like the Udaya and the Asta hills, received those
assailants. Boasting of his prowess in battle, Shalya poured a shower of
arrows on that chastiser of foes, king Yudhishthira the just, like
Maghavat pouring rain.
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