Introduction

The island of Lanka has been scarred with a violent past.  Once inhabited by demons, the island over the years has transformed as the human race has grown more abundant.  The great Rama, a human form of Vishnu, helped establish the human race as a strong presence over the lands.  He also helped to dwindle the demon population that terrorized Lanka and the nearby mainland.  As Rama returned to his kingdom up north, he gave the island to a meek and worthy demon, Vibhishana, who helped to return peace to the island.  As many years went by, Vibhishana led the inhabitants of Lanka to a prosperous life.  Humans flocked to the island over the years, and as the demographic of the island changed so did King Vibhishana, adopting the image of a human.  Many years went by and time has a funny way of washing away the memory as the people and the king himself forgot about Lanka's past.  Then one night the King awoke abruptly from his sleep...

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All alone in a great room, a man sat up on the King of Lanka's throne.  It was late at night and the only light came from the flame of a torch that hung to the right of the throne.  Its light danced about the room, crackling as it ate away slowly from the torch.  The king was slumped over, his head resting upon his right hand.  The man seemed to be tired, but was fighting with every last possible ounce of energy to keep his eyes open.  A knock on the door surprised the king as he invited the person to enter the room in a scratchy but powerful voice.

"King Vibhishana!" exclaimed the visitor as he entered the room and quickly moved towards the throne.  Vibhishana sat up in his seat, seemingly pleased by the company.  "You look exhausted, sir.  Is there anything I can get you?" asked the visitor.

The king responded, "No, I'm fine here in this room.  The temperature is just right in here.  The room catches the breeze that sweeps in from the west.  The lighting is pleasant and dim.  I know I seem worn, but I'm fighting sleep lately.  I'm being haunted tonight." 

The visitor looked upset with that news, but from his demeanor he seemed like a man who jumped to action.  He wore armor and clothing like a soldier of some sorts, and his facial reaction to Vibhishana's comments would lead one to believe he cared for his king.  "Great king, after all your travels, adventures, and victories...what could possibly haunt you at night?  What could be so terrible that you would rather suffer awake than to face it in your dreams?" 

Vibhishana smirked at the flattery and challenge all wrapped up in the same comment.  "Young man, you've worked your way into my favor by being an excellent soldier and great problem solver.  Even though I praise your skills and set you in a great position within this kingdom, you still are naive.  I've been king for many thousands of years now...ever since being named king by Rama during the battle over Lanka.  I took the throne reluctantly, and only wished to lead the people here into a peaceful life full of thought-provoking discussion rather than violence.  I only condone violence when necessary, and your dreams can be a very dangerous place to declare war."  The soldier stood quietly. "This kingdom used to be led by some unsavory demons, all members of my family."  The soldier looked confused.  "You see, I am a rakshasa.  I've always known that my own blood can be responsible for all out cruelty."

"I don't understand!" exclaimed the visitor.

The king further explained, "My two brothers and one sister have been creeping back into my mind after many years of their absence.  Now that they've been dead for many years, they have came together to attack me in my sleep, to never let me have peace, and to remind me of my heritage.  Surpanakha was my sister, full of jealousy and hatred.  Kumbhakarna was a brother, lazy and hateful, and Ravana was the oldest and leader.  Their powers were unmatched and the three terrorized humans and gods alike for many years until one man came to change all of history.  Everyone has demons in their past.  Let me tell you of my demons."

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