Refusal to the Call
The Ramayana takes this step in an unique direction. Since the Call to Adventure does not come directly to Rama, the refusal does not come from Rama. The Refusal to the Call comes from Rama's father King Dasaratha. After Viswamithra requests that Rama accompany him on his journey King Dasaratha refuses because in his mind Rama "is too young and tender to contend with demons" (8). In the end King Dasaratha does allow Rama to go by coming to the compromise that since "Rama has never been separated from his brother Lakshmana" Rama may go on the condition that his brother goes with him. Viswamithra agrees and the three set out on their journey.