No Escape from Consequences of Treachery

Shala was a proud prince of the Ikshaku dynasty, and he had a keen passion for hunting. One day, he rode in a chariot and pursued a deer deep into the forest. Unfortunately, his horses grew tired and could not maintain their speed. Reluctant to give up his prey, he sought an alternative.

Not far from where he stood was the hermitage of Sage Vamadeva. Knowing that the sage possessed a pair of exceptional horses, Shala approached him and said, feigning humility, “Sir, may I borrow your horses for an hour or two?”

The sage gazed at the prince and replied, “You may, but only on the condition that you return them to me as soon as your work is done.”

“I promise to do so, Sir,” assured the prince as he rode away with the horses.

Shala quickly realized just how remarkable the horses were—they could run at astonishing speeds and effortlessly navigate the obstacles in the forest. Captivated by their abilities, the prince began to drive towards his palace after finishing his hunt.

“Hello, Prince!” shouted one of the sage’s disciples. “Don’t forget to return the sage’s horses! Please!” However, the prince dismissed the warning and forged ahead.

It wasn’t long before disaster struck. As Shala had hardly crossed the forest, the horses suddenly transformed into demons. They overturned his chariot and killed him without hesitation.

Needless to say, the horses had never truly been what they appeared. The sage had turned demonic beings into horses to test the prince’s character. In the end, Shala learned a chilling lesson about the consequences of arrogance and betrayal.