Reading Diary B, Week 6

Rama uses the abilities of the monkey Nala to build a bridge across the sea to Lanka. Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana urges him to give Sita back to Rama to avoid a war. Ravana doesn't appreciate the advice of his brother and kicks him out of Lanka. Once he is kicked out of the city, Vibhishana and his 4 loyal guards fly over to the camp of Rama and meet up with Hanuman. Most of the camp wishes to turn away Vibhishana but both Rama and Hanuman trust his intentions and allow him to join them.

They cross the bridge to Lanka and make camp on the hill. The group is watched by Ravana's spies, first by Shuka who Angada captures but is let go to return a message to Ravana. Second by two of Ravana's best spies who take the form of monkeys in order to mingle within the camp. Both are spotted by Vibhishana who is able to look through their disguises and then captured.

Ravana attempts to trick Sita with the use of illusions in order to gain her love before the war even begins. He has his magicians create a bow identical to Rama's and his head parted from his body. Ravana brings these items before Sita, claiming that his general raided them during the night and killed them all. Sita begins to breakdown but is consoled by Trijata and told the truth.

First battle: During the day which weakens the strength of the demons. Rama and his men defeat the first wave and cause Prahasta's retreat. The demons then attack at night and are once again defeated. During this second battle Prahasta is killed.

Kumbhakarna, Ravana's brother is awoken from his sleep and consults with Ravana about the war. He suggests that Ravana return Sita to Rama just as Vibhishana did. However, in the end he aggress to join the battle and face Rama. Rama is able to destroy the giant with well placed arrows.

 Indrajit basically kills everyone but they are all revived after medicine hill is brought over. Rama tries to get everyone to leave him because he realizes that he is placing them in a lot of danger. However, none of his followers will leave and stay by his side. More illusions that don't work. Indrajit and Lakshmana go into single combat and in the end Lakshmana is the victor. Ravana now must go to battle for himself.