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The Terrible War
93
Then, he suggested the battle-formations for the third day's battle; gave them relevant commands and sent them off.
Ravan, during his discussions with the Rakshasa heroes, had vowed to destroy Ram, Lakshman and their armies but yet he was not free from fears and doubts. During the past two days, he had observed the extraordinary heroism and militaric prowess of Shri Ram's army. He had witnessed the tremendous heroism of Sugriv, Bhamandal and Hanuman. He had observed the militaric prowess and strategic skill of Nal, Neel and Angadh. He had observed from close quarters the dauntless heroism of Prasannakirthi. Viradh and Chandrarashmi. At the same time. he was being deeply agitated by his thoughts relating to Sita. "Even after I attain a victory over the enemies, Sita may not accept my love. She may commit suicide." These thoughts filled him with anxiety and despair. He could not think of any solution.
Sugriv, Hanuman and Bhamandal met Shri Ram. In that day's battle, Shri Ram had examined and realised the abilities of the Rakshasa heroes and warriors except Ravan. Shri Ram said in a slow and serious manner.
"My dear heroes! Our fighting today was excellent. Even gods would applaud our achievements. The entire credit for all this goes to you. The war we fought against Kumbhakarna, Indrajit and Meghavahan was indeed tremendous. From today's battle, we have been able to realise the abilities and potentialities of the Rakshasa heroes and their mastery over supernatural weapons. But remember that tomorrow none of them will return alive to Lanka. In tomorrow's battle, Ravan will himself lead his armies. It is going to be a great test to you. It is going to be a great ordeal to you. You have to face it."
At this point, Vibhishan said folding his hands :
"Dear lord! You are absolutely right. Your conjecture is true. In tomorrow's battle, Ravan will enter the battle-front and will wage a deadly war. Therefore, I entreat you to permit me to fight against Ravan tomorrow.
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