66697602-The-Ramayana-R-K-Narayan

Seizing the idea from Mareecha’s own narration, Ravana
firmly suggested, without leaving him any choice, “Assume
the form of a golden deer, and draw her out. I’ll do the rest …
It’s the only way to get at her without hurting anyone.”
Mareecha agreed. “Yes, I’ll go this moment and carry out
your wishes.” But he was fully aware of the consequences
that would befall him immediately and Ravana later.
Mareecha went forth, gloomily reflecting, “Twice have I
escaped Rama’s arrow; now, this third time, I shall be
doomed. I am like a fish in a poisoned pond. Sooner or later
I am bound to die, whether I stay in it or get out of it.”
Mareecha went to Dandaka forest. In the vicinity of
Panchvati, he assumed the form of a golden deer and
strutted before Rama’s cottage. Attracted by its brilliance,
other deer came up and surrounded the golden deer. Sita,
strolling in her garden, noticed it, hurried back into the
cottage, and requested of Rama, “There is an animal at our
gate with a body of shining gold, and its legs are set with
precious stones. It’s a dazzling creature. Please catch it for
me.”
The fates were at work and this was to be a crucial
moment in their lives. Normally, Rama would have
questioned Sita’s fancy, but today he blindly accepted her
demand and said cheerfully, “Yes, of course you shall have it.
Where is it?” and he rose to go out.