The book is loosely based on the events that happen in the beginning of the epic, Ramayana. This book covers the events from the time Rama is announced as the heir to the throne till the time he is on his way to Mithila, to attend Sita's swayamvara. The setting is the city of Ayodhya, the impregnable city, the capital of the kingdom of Kosala, currently ruled by Dasaratha, who is Rama's father. Demonic forces, led by the Rakshasa king Ravana, are planning a massive attack on the city of Ayodhya. Sage Vishwamitra knows of this and is on his way to Ayodhya to warn the king and to seek his help in battling the demons of the forest where he is conducting a powerful two century long yagna.