Then Raama bent his bow and, pulling the string to his ear, sent forth an arrow.
It pierced the sal tree pointed out by Sugreeva and six other trees standing behind it.
Piercing the seven trees the beautiful arrow touched the earth and returned to Raama's
quiver.
Sugreeva, seeing this, was beside himself
with joy. He was now certain that Raama's arrow could pierce the adamant frame of Vaali.
He fell prostrate before Raama and said: "With my own eyes I have now seen your
prowess. Even if all the gods with Indra at their head should come and oppose you, your
victory is certain. Why then talk of Vaali? I have gained your friendship and I have no
more use for fear or grief. Slay Vali and save me. Let us go to Kishkindha today."
Both Raama and Lakshmana agreed. They
talked how to set about and it was finally agreed that Sugreeva should appear in
Kishkindha and challenge Vaali to single combat. Vaali was sure to come out, and as the
brothers were fighting, Raama would kill Vaali with an arrow. They proceeded to
Kishkindha. Sugreeva went ahead. Raama followed him and stood away behind a tree in the
dense forest. |
