See there, the clouds of arrows! The Pandava army is attacking us in great force. Yudhishthira is here unsupported by Arjuna and is this not just the opportunity we wanted? Our very plan has borne fruit and I must now take Yudhishthira prisoner and deliver him to you. I cannot give up this objective and run after Phalguna now.

If I go after Arjuna now, our battle array will be hopelessly broken and we shall be lost. Let me put this armour on you. Go in confidence. Do not fear. You have valour, skill and experience. This coat will protect you against all weapons. It will not let any blow pass through your body.

Go forth to battle, Duryodhana, in confi- dence as Indra did, clad in the armour given by Brahma. May victory be yours." Duryodhana's confidence was restored and, as the acharya directed, he went, accoutred in magic armour and accom- panied by a large force of soldiers, to attack Arjuna.