To detract Ravana from the pursuit of evil, Maricha pleaded, "My Lord, many are those who flatter. Flattery is born out of selfishness and not out of love. Rare are those who provide wise counsel but rarer are kings who heed those words. You are careless and your informers are incompetent. Without information how can you know your enemy? Of Rama and his outstanding virtues you have no comprehension. You are not aware that he is an equal of Indra and Varuna. Ravana! Will the asuras ever be safe on this earth? Rama in his rage will rid the world of them. Is Sita, the daughter of Janaka born for your destruction? Will I also be imperiled because of her? Ruled by a king like you, who are prey to every passing passion, will not Lanka fall to ruin? Dasaratha did not abandon Rama. Your allegations are false. Rama is compassion incarnate and an embodiment of dharma. Kaikeyi brought about the banishment of Rama, who took it upon himself to redeem his father's pledge to Kaikeyi. That is the reason for his being in Dandaka." Sita is a jewel among women, and her chastity is her protection. Why do you try to separate her from Rama? They are as inseparable as the Sun and its light! You are playing with fire, for Rama's prowess is incredible and Sita is beyond your reach. Your life will end the day you face Rama on the battlefield. If you are to prosper do not harm Rama. Seek Vibhishana's advice and that of your counsellors'. Be honest; take stock of your strength and that of Rama. May you resolve to be judicious, war with Rama is unwise! He loves Sita more than life itself and she is his devoted wife. Ravana! If you wish to enjoy your life, your comforts and your kingdom forget Rama.