Already having crossed the threshold, the Hero now faces tests, gains allies, confronts enemies, and learns more about the Special World. During this stage, the Hero encounters enemies and villains. A rival may reveal themself to the Hero's goal. This stage will prepare the Hero for Ordeals that are to come. Also, this stage tests the skills of the Hero. It tests the Hero's commitment to the journey.
Siddhartha encounters many challenges during his journey, though one example is his dealings in material wealth. Kamala, the woman who we wishes to woo, requires that Siddhartha has "clothes and money... things [that] are easy goals which do not disturb one's sleep." His goal to obtain Nirvana and enlightenment are directly challenged by this test, as they undo the progress Siddhartha has made to destroy lustful and material desires. He must face his sexuality with Kamala, and with Kamaswami, he learns business and becomes addicted to gambling.
Siddhartha succumbs to his lustful and material desires, and his idea of Self, bringing him back down to stream-enterer or below.
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