Sugriva was happy that preparations for the search of Sita were under way. At Lakshmana's suggestion they left Kishkinda to meet Rama. Borne on a palanquin of gold, protected by a shimmering white canopy, surrounded by fierce Vanaras bearing arms Sugriva traveled in all majesty. Amidst the boom of kettledrums and the blowing of conch shells followed the rest of the army seeming to cover the entire surface of the earth. Arriving at mount Prasravana, Sugriva got off the palanquin and stood with folded hands before Rama. Behind him stood the rest of the Vanara hordes who resembled a lotus filled lake as they stood with their palms joined above their heads. Sugriva prostrated and Rama, thrilled at seeing his dear friend embraced him with great affection saying, "A king who divides his time equally between dharma, artha and kama is a fit king! But the one, who neglecting his duties spends all his time in the pleasures of life, is like he who sleeps on the branch of a tree, to wake up only when he falls! Eliminating enemies, helping friends and protecting dharma, a king earns great renown. The time now is for war. Plan your strategy and prepare for it Sugriva!" Sugriva knew that he owed his freedom, his fame, his crown and his very life to Rama. With a deep sense of gratitude he was more than happy to embark on Rama's mission, assuring him that indomitable legions of Vanaras who were the sons of gods and Gandharvas were gathering every day by the thousands. They would go to war against Ravana to destroy him, his sons, his brothers and his kith and kin, along with his magnificent island kingdom of Lanka. Relieved and happy at Sugriva's efforts, Rama's face was radiant!