As dawn approached, the venerable sage Vasiṣṭha arrived at the palace, where he saw Sumantra, the renowned charioteer, emerging from the doorway of the lion among men—a minister whose presence was pleasing to behold. The mighty Vasiṣṭha addressed Sumantra, the skilled son of a charioteer, saying, “Go swiftly and inform the king that I have come.” He continued, “Here are pitchers filled with the sacred waters of the Ganges, golden vessels from the seas, and a holy wooden seat made of udumbara wood, all brought for the consecration ceremony. We have assembled all kinds of seeds, fragrant substances, various jewels, honey, curds, ghee, parched grains, darbha grass, flowers, and milk. There are also eight lovely maidens, a noble and intoxicated elephant, a splendid chariot drawn by four horses, a sword, and an excellent bow. Attending are a vehicle surrounded by men, a parasol shining like the moon, white fly-whisks, and a golden vessel for sprinkling. “A bull with a hump, pale in color and adorned with golden chains, is present; also, a lion with four fangs, a foremost monkey of great strength. There is a throne, a tiger skin, sacrificial firewood, and the fire for offerings. All kinds of musical instruments are ready, and women adorned with ornaments are present. Teachers, Brahmins, sacred cows, auspicious beasts and birds, leading citizens from both town and country, and merchants with their groups have all gathered. These and many others, delighted and speaking kindly, are assembled with the kings for Rama’s consecration. “Hasten, Sumantra, to the great king, so that, when the auspicious day arrives and the constellation Puṣya is in conjunction, Rama may receive the kingdom.” Hearing these words, Sumantra, mighty in strength and ever-praising the tiger among kings, entered the palace. The royal attendants at the door, unable to restrain the esteemed elder, wished only to please the king. Standing near the king and perceiving his condition, Sumantra began to praise him with words that brought utmost satisfaction. With joined palms, as he had done before in the king’s palace, Sumantra addressed the lord of the earth: “Just as the radiant ocean rejoices at the rising of the sun, so, with a joyful heart, may you bring us happiness. At this very hour, Mātali praised Indra, who conquered all the demons; likewise, I awaken you. Just as the Vedas, with their branches and sciences, awaken the self-born lord Brahma, so I awaken you today. Just as the sun together with the moon awakens the beautiful earth, so I awaken you. Rise, O great king, with festivities and auspicious rites performed, shining in form like the sun upon Mount Meru. May Soma and Sūrya, O descendant of Kakutstha, Śiva and Kubera, Varuṇa, Agni, and Indra grant you victory. The blessed night has passed, your task is accomplished; awaken, tiger among kings, and attend to the next duty. All preparations for Rama’s consecration have been completed; the townspeople, country folk, and merchants stand with joined palms. The venerable Vasiṣṭha himself is waiting together with the brāhmaṇas; quickly command, O King, the consecration of Rāghava. Just as cattle without a herdsman, an army without a leader, a night without the moon, or cows without a bull—so indeed will a kingdom become, where the king is not seen.” Hearing these gentle yet meaningful words, the king was again overcome by grief. Thinking of his beloved son, the king spoke to Sumantra, his joy vanished. His eyes reddened with sorrow, yet resplendent and righteous, he looked up and said, “Indeed, with your words you cut my heart again.” Seeing the king so dejected and hearing these sorrowful words, Sumantra, with hands joined, withdrew a little. When the king, overwhelmed by distress, could not speak, Kaikeyī, skilled in counsel, addressed Sumantra: “Sumantra, the king, longing for Rama’s consecration, spent the night sleepless and exhausted, and has now succumbed to sleep. Therefore, go quickly, charioteer, and bring the illustrious prince Rama; may good befall you—there is no need for deliberation here.” Sumantra replied, “How can I go, noble lady, without hearing the king’s command?” Hearing this, the king spoke to Sumantra: “Sumantra, I will see Rama; quickly bring the handsome one.” Thinking that good fortune was at hand, the king rejoiced in his heart. At the king’s command, Sumantra departed swiftly and joyfully; urged on by Kaikeyī, he reflected, “Surely, the righteous king will summon Rama here for the consecration.” Thinking thus, the mighty Sumantra, eager to see Rāghava, left the splendid inner quarters—like the ocean or a great lake—and saw the crowded gateway ahead. Emerging at the front, he looked at those stationed at the king’s gate and saw various wealthy citizens gathered and standing at the entrance. Now listen to the next chapter: As that night passed, the brāhmaṇas, accomplished in the Vedas, together with the royal priest, assembled at the court.