Rama kills Viradha, a cursed Gandharva whose freedom depended on his death. Sages urge Rama to protect them from demons near Pampa lake, affirming his duty as a righteous king. Rama declines offers of Indra’s worlds, choosing forest life and prioritizing his vow to protect sages over other concerns. He visits Sage Agastya, who guides him to Panchavati. There, Surpanakha attacks Sita after being rejected by Rama. Lakshmana cuts off her nose and ears. Khara dispatches fourteen demons to kill Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita. Rama slays them with golden arrows. Enraged, Khara mobilizes fourteen thousand demons led by Dusana. Despite terrifying omens, he marches to Janasthana. Rama perceives the threat, instructs Lakshmana to hide Sita, and prepares to face the army alone. He singlehandedly slays Dusana, Trisira, and fourteen thousand demons. He confronts Khara, condemning his cruelty and predicting his demise as just retribution for sins against ascetics. Rama destroys Khara’s chariot and mace, then pierces him with a fiery dart. The gods and sages worship Rama, celebrating his victory over the cruel sinners who threatened the forest. Akampana urges Ravana to abduct Sita after Rama destroys Janasthana. Maricha warns against this, citing Rama’s invincibility. Ravana, convinced by Surpanakha’s description of Sita’s beauty, seeks Maricha’s help.