But at the sight of the Lord (who was a perfect treasure of beauty), the demon host stood entranced, nor could they shoot their arrows. Then Khara and Dushana summoned their ministers and said, ‘This prince, whoever he may be, is an ornament of the human race.

Serpents, demons, gods, human beings and sages of all sorts have we seen and vanquished and slain; but listen, our brethren all, never have we seen such beauty!

Though they have made our sister hideous to behold, even yet so incomparable a hero is not worthy of death. "Surrender to us at once the woman whom you have hidden and you two brothers return home alive."

Give him my message and return swiftly with his answer.’ The heralds went to Rama and delivered the message to hi, but Rama smilingly replied.

‘We are Kshatriyas and are given to hunting in the woods, and it is wretches like you that we seek for our prey. We are never dismayed at the sight of a mighty foe and would give battle to Death himself if he ever appeared before us.

Though human beings, we are the destroyers of the demon race and, though youthful in appearance, we are the protectors of the hermits and the torment of the wicked. If you are not strong enough to fight, you had better return home; I never kill an enemy in retreat.

To play wily pranks on the field of battle or to show compassion to the enemy is utter cowardice.’ The heralds returned forthwith and repeated all that they had been told. The hearts of Khara and Dushana were on fire when they heard it.