As Rāma spoke to Sītā, his voice was calm and resolute. “My father, devoted always to truth and righteousness, has given me his command. As he instructs, so I must act, for this is the eternal law. My mind is firmly made up, Sītā—I am to lead you into the Dandaka forest. Be certain of this, and prepare yourself to dwell there with me. “O flawless one, with eyes like intoxicating wine, you are destined for the forest life beside me. Come, gentle Sītā, and be my companion in righteousness. Your resolve is truly fitting—not just for me, but for the noble lineage from which you come. Your decision, beautiful one, fills me with admiration. “Now, O auspicious lady, begin the tasks suited for life in the forest. Without you, Sītā, even the heavens would hold no joy for me. Give away our jewels to the Brahmins and food to the mendicants. Grant freely to all who ask, and do not delay. All our precious ornaments, fine garments, and delightful playthings—give these away as well. Beds, vehicles, and all my possessions—distribute them to our servants, but only after you have honored the Brahmins first.” Hearing her husband’s words, Sītā’s heart was filled with joy and eagerness. She promptly began to give away gifts, her spirit uplifted and fulfilled. The noble lady, radiant among the righteous, distributed wealth and jewels with a delighted heart, as Rāma had instructed. At this point, Lakṣmaṇa arrived, his face streaked with tears, unable to contain his sorrow after overhearing their conversation. Pressing Rāma’s feet with devotion, the joy of the Raghu clan spoke earnestly to Sītā and to Rāma, the great vow-holder. “If you have resolved to go to the forest, filled with deer and elephants, let me go before you, bearing my bow. With me by your side, you will wander through delightful groves, where the air resounds with birds and wild creatures. I do not long for the realm of the gods, nor for immortality, nor even the sovereignty of the worlds—without you, none of it matters to me.” Lakṣmaṇa, his mind set on joining them in exile, was gently restrained by Rāma’s words, yet he persisted. “You had already permitted me to follow you before. Why restrain me now? Why forbid me, when I wish only to serve? Please tell me, for I am uncertain, O blameless one.” Rāma then spoke to Lakṣmaṇa, who stood before him with joined palms, steadfast and sincere. “Lakṣmaṇa, you are affectionate, devoted to righteousness, unwavering in virtue, as dear to me as life itself—obedient, victorious, and my friend. But if you, Saumitri, come with me into the forest, who will care for Kausalyā or the illustrious Sumitrā? Our father, bound by his own desires, is lost in sorrow. The kingdom, now given to Kaikeyī’s son, will not bring happiness to the co-wives left behind. Bharata, installed as king and guided by Kaikeyī, may not support Kausalyā and the deeply distressed Sumitrā. Therefore, Saumitri, remain here and support our noble mother, either by your own means or with the king’s favor. This is your duty—fulfill it for Kausalyā’s sake. In this way, your devotion to me will be clear, and your righteousness in honoring our elders will be beyond compare. Do this for me, O delight of the Raghu lineage, so that happiness does not abandon our mother, bereft of us.” Hearing Rāma’s gentle words, Lakṣmaṇa, skillful in reply, spoke again: “By your own radiance, O hero, Bharata will surely honor Kausalyā and Sumitrā with devotion—of this I have no doubt. But if, having gained the kingdom, Bharata should rule unjustly or act out of pride, I will not hesitate—I will slay that wicked one, and all who stand with him, even if they be the three worlds. As for Kausalyā, she could support a thousand like me, for she has a thousand villages with dependents. She is more than capable of caring for herself, my mother, and all others—she is a woman of great resolve. Allow me to be your companion; there is no unrighteousness in this. Only then will I be fulfilled, and your purpose accomplished. “With my bow strung and ready, a spade and basket at my side, I will walk ahead of you, showing you the path. I will always gather roots, fruits, and other forest foods suitable for ascetics. You, together with Vaidehī, shall delight on the mountain slopes, while I will do everything for you, whether you are awake or asleep.” Rāma, greatly pleased by Lakṣmaṇa’s devotion and words, replied warmly, “Go then, Saumitri, and take leave of all your friends.” And he recalled the two divine bows, fierce in appearance, which the great-souled Varuṇa himself had given to King Janaka at his great sacrifice.