Scouts who knew
the way went ahead, looking out for enemies lying in ambush. The led the army through
regions that could provide food and drink for the huge army. With speed the army crossed
mountains and forests.
The Vaanaras sometimes carried Raama and Lakshmana on their shoulders so that the march
might be speedy. Every moment the enthusiasm of the Vaanaras increased. They jumped and
roared and sported. Raama could hear them saying to one another, "I shall kill
Raavana! I shall meet and kill Raavana!"
Neela and Kumuda went ahead reconnoitering in front of the army. Strong warriors were kept
in the rear, guarding it from behind. King Sugreeva, Raama and Lakshmana were in the
middle. Raama gave strict orders that the army should inflict no harm or hardship on the
towns and villages on the way. The noise of the marching army was like the roar of the sea
and filled the eight quarters. The dust they raised covered the sky. |
