The original "Ramayana"--a classic tale of war between absolute Good and Evil--was written 3,000 years ago by Valmiki, a reformed thief-turned-sage. Now, with breathtaking imagination, Indian novelist Ashok K. Banker has recreated this epic tale for modern readers everywhere. The invasion has begun, and the bestial demon hordes roar towards Ayodhya. If Ayodhya falls, then all mortals fall. Rama must go to Mithila--a city lying directly in the path of destruction. There, a small band of heroes plan a valiant stand against the advancing armies of darkness. But Lanka's forces are nearly boundless and have swept all before them. For at the head of the demon tide rides Rama's nemesis, a terrible slayer of souls--the demonlord Ravana.