Sita begs Rava?a to kill her so that she may join her husband in death; but Rava?a is summoned to meet his general Prahasta and his ministers; leaving Sita to be disabused of her belief that Rama is dead by the compassionate rak?asi Sarama. Rava?a orders the beating of the drums to summon his forces; which are crowded behind the walls. His maternal grandfather Malyavan advises surrendering Sita; and lists the terrible portents that have been seen in the city; including interbreeding of animals; but to no avail. Rama confers with his allies - the monkeys headed by Sugriva; the bears under their king Jambavan; and the friendly demons under Vibhi?a?a - as to the best plan of assault; while the monkeys begin to besiege the city.Udaipur; c. 1653.From: Ramayana.Add. 15297 (1); f. 6London; British Library.