Part 8: Bahman Comes to Zabol

When Bahman heard the words of that famous man before the throne, he set out on his way. He put on royal robes of gold brocade and set the great crown upon his head. He came striding proudly from the royal tent, a bright banner following behind him. The world seeker crossed the Helmand River, a proud young man on a tall horse. At once the watchman spotted him and raised a cry toward Zabolestan, That a bold warrior had come, riding a black horse under trappings of gold. Behind him rode a modest band, and he passed easily along the riverbank. At once Zal the golden-haired mounted up, a lasso at his saddle-straps and a mace in hand. He rode out from the watchtower and saw the man, and drew a cold, heavy sigh from his heart. He said, this is a famous champion, a proud man dressed in the garments of kings. He surely comes from the line of Lohrasp; may his coming to this land be blessed. He rode back from the watchtower to his court, and for a while lay lost in thought upon his saddle. At that moment Bahman appeared, spreading out his royal banner. The young man did not know Zal; he lifted high his kingly neck with pride. When he drew closer he called out and said, you there, man of noble farmer stock, Where is the chief of the assembly, the son of Dastan, the one on whom the age leans for support? For the hero Esfandiar has come to Zabol and pitched his tent by the river's edge. Zal said to him, ambitious young man, come down, call for wine, and take your rest. Rostam will soon return from the hunting ground, along with Zavareh, Faramarz, and some troops. Stay here honored among these riders, and cheer your heart with a few cups of wine. He answered thus: Esfandiar did not order us to feast and drink. Choose me a man who knows the way to guide me to the hunting ground. Dastan said to him, what is your name? You pass by so swiftly; what is your purpose? I think you are a kinsman of Lohrasp, or perhaps of the line of King Goshtasp. He answered thus: I am Bahman, grandson of the world ruler, the brazen-bodied one. When Zal heard the words of that proud youth, he came down from his horse and bowed before him. Bahman smiled and dismounted; Zal asked after him, and Bahman listened. He begged him many times to stay here, saying there is no reason for you to leave so hastily. Bahman replied, the command of Esfandiar must not be treated so lightly and cheaply. So Zal chose a man who knew the road and sent him with Bahman to the hunting ground. The guide went on ahead of him, a worldly-wise man whose name was Shirkhun. He pointed out the hunting ground with his finger, and then turned back and left the road.