In the grand court of the illustrious king, the air was filled with anticipation as he sought to ensure that both divine and human duties had been properly fulfilled. With a heart full of reverence, he approached the venerable sage Vasiṣṭha, inquiring after his well-being, and greeted the other esteemed seers present, their spirits lifted by the king's warm welcome. As they entered the royal residence, their hearts were gladdened by the honor bestowed upon them. Seated comfortably, the king, his mind alight with joy, turned his attention to the great sage Viśvāmitra. Overflowing with generosity and delight, the king expressed, “Your arrival is akin to nectar, like rain after a drought, the birth of a child to one long childless, or the return of a lost treasure. Your presence brings me immense joy! What is your highest wish? How may I serve you, uplifted by the honor of your visit?” With deep respect, the king continued, “You are deserving of my utmost reverence, O Brāhmaṇa. Today, my life feels fulfilled by your presence, for seeing you, the lord of Brāhmaṇas, has made my night auspicious. Your brilliance, kindled by austerity, has elevated you to the status of a Brahmarṣi, and I am humbled by the purity of this event. Tell me, what purpose brings you here? I wish to contribute to your cause, so do not hesitate to express your request.” Viśvāmitra, renowned for his virtues and self-control, was filled with supreme joy upon hearing the king’s heartfelt words. He acknowledged the king’s noble lineage and esteemed character, recognizing that such conduct was fitting for a ruler of his stature. With deep emotion, he shared the burden of his vow, revealing that two formidable demons, Mārīca and Subāhu, had been obstructing his sacred rituals. These demons, capable of taking any form, had disrupted his sacrifices, showering the altar with flesh and blood, and leaving him exhausted and disheartened. Yet, despite his troubles, the sage did not succumb to anger. He implored the king, “You must grant me your son Rāma, the heroic youth, whose valor is unmatched. Protected by my divine power, he possesses the strength needed to vanquish those demons. With Rāma by my side, I assure you that they will be defeated, and his fame will resonate throughout the three worlds.” Viśvāmitra emphasized that no one but Rāma, the son of Raghu, could overcome the arrogant demons bound by the noose of time. He urged the king not to let his affection for his son cloud his judgment, assuring him that Rāma’s valor was well-known to Vasiṣṭha and others steeped in austerity. If the king desired righteousness and supreme fame, he must consent to this request, with the approval of his ministers. The sage concluded, “The period of the sacrifice lasts ten nights, and Rāma, with his lotus-like eyes, will not delay beyond this time.” As Viśvāmitra fell silent, the king was overwhelmed by a wave of sorrow. His heart trembled at the thought of sending his beloved son into danger, and he felt faint at the weight of the sage's words. Regaining his composure, he rose, filled with fear and anxiety. After a moment of reflection, the king spoke, “My Rāma is still so young, not yet sixteen. I cannot see him fit to confront the Rākṣasas. This is my army, an Akṣauhiṇī, strong and valiant, and I shall lead them to battle against those night-roaming demons. You should not take Rāma from me.” Thus, the noble king, torn between his duty and his love for his son, stood at a crossroads, his heart heavy with the weight of the sage's request.