Reign of Lohrasp

When Lohrasp sat upon the throne of justice, he placed the royal crown upon his head. He began to praise the Creator of the world, and his devotion to God only grew. He said: 'From the just and pure Judge, keep your hope, but also your reverence and fear.' He is the painter of the turning wheel of heaven; the giver of glory to His servant. He created the sea, the mountains, and the earth, and raised the high sky above it. One thing spins swiftly, another stays still; the Maker gave it no feet to move. We are like a hair upon a ball, caught in the middle, worn by bodily pain, greed, gain, and loss. Your heart is glad, yet death, with its sharp claws, sits waiting like a fierce, quarrelsome lion. Let us turn away from greed and excess, and confess our own ignorance. From this royal crown and lofty throne, we seek nothing but justice, peace, and good counsel. May our share from this fleeting inn of a world not turn out to be spite, curses, and suffering. I will build upon Kaykhosrow's wisdom, and drive spite and greed out of my heart. Work and be glad of justice; live at ease and hold no thought of malice. The great ones of the world called him the Creator's champion and named him the king of the earth. The noble Lohrasp found peace; he gained wisdom's substance and joyful fulfillment. After that he sent messengers to Rome, to India, to China, and to every prosperous land. From every border, all who were wise and able to keep his covenant, took to the road from every country and hurried to the king's court. They tasted knowledge in all its bitterness and delight, and stayed a while, contented, in Balkh. The king raised up a great city, full of quarters, lanes, and marketplaces. In every quarter a festival ground for Sadeh, and all around it stood a fire temple. He built a fire temple named Barzin, one blessed with good fortune, grandeur, and joy.

He had two sons, radiant as the moon, both worthy of the throne, the crown, and kingship. One was named Goshtasp, the other Zarir, who could bring the head of a fierce lion low. Each surpassed his father in every branch of learning, and rose above the whole army in valor. Two proud princes, both of noble step, grandsons of the world-ruler, King Kavus. Their father Lohrasp's heart was gladdened by them, yet he never spoke fondly of Goshtasp. For Goshtasp's head was full of restless dreams, and this displeased Lohrasp deeply. As the days went by in this way, Goshtasp grew full of grief because of the king. One day it happened that in Fars they set the throne beneath a tree that scattered blossoms. Lohrasp gave the order, and the nobles came, several chieftains of the army gathered. At the banquet they called for a cup of wine, and cheered the heart of the king of the world. When Goshtasp had drunk, he rose to his feet and said: O king of justice and of truth, may your reign upon the throne be blessed, and may your name live on forever. God gave you the crown and the belt of power, as he gave it to the just King Kai Khosrow. Now I am only a servant at your door, devoted to your star and your crown. I count no warrior a true match for me if they came against me on the day of battle, except Rostam, the horseman, son of Zal and Sam, with whom no one can wage war. Since Kai Khosrow grew anxious about you, he gave you the throne and then passed on. If indeed I am among the deserving, then let my name too be linked to crown, throne, and royalty. Otherwise I will remain as I am, like a servant before you, and will call you my king. He said to Goshtasp: My son, listen well, for harshness does not suit a king. When I recall Kai Khosrow's counsel to you, listen, and take care not to turn from justice. The unjust king told me: there is a nature like a stream beside a spring garden, which, when it finds water, grows strong, and the whole garden turns to ruin because of it. You are still young; do not seek such heights. Weigh your words and speak with measure. When Goshtasp heard this, he was filled with pain and left his father's presence, his face gone pale. He kept saying: he favors strangers, is kind to them, but never to his own son. He had three hundred horsemen from the army, all brave and fit for battle. He dismounted, summoned his men of lower rank, and shared all his secrets with them. Tonight prepare yourselves to leave, and tear your hearts and eyes away from this court. One of them asked: which way is your road, and where will you find rest when you set out? He answered: among the people of India they will welcome me and gladden my soul. I hold a letter from the king of India, written in black musk upon fine silk, saying: if you come to me, I am your servant; I will not go against your command or your will. When the dark night came, he mounted with his troops and rode off in fury, a mace in his hand. At daybreak Lohrasp learned of it; he grew grieved, and his joy was cut short. He summoned the seasoned men of the army and told them all that had happened. See, he said, what Goshtasp has done; he has filled my heart with pain, my head with dust. I raised him until his shoulders broadened, and he grew famous in the world, without equal. Just when I thought he had come to fruit, the famed one fled away from my garden. He was gone, and Lohrasp brooded long, then ordered Zarir to come before him. He told him: choose a thousand from the army, brave horsemen ready for war. Go swiftly toward India, lest that be a land of sorcerers. Gostaham, son of Nozar, set off toward Rome, and Gorazeh marched briskly toward China.

Gushtasp rode on, driven by anger, his heart full of hate, his eyes full of tears. He galloped until he reached Kabul, where he saw trees, flowers, greenery, and water. They stopped in that pleasant place, stayed a day and caught their breath. Every hillside was full of game, and the streams flowed like wine and milk. When dark night came, he called for wine, and they brought candles beside the streamside. When the world-lighting sun rose over the mountain, they left the woods with falcons and hunting cheetahs. Zarir spurred his horse in his pursuit, never resting long in any one place. When the sound of horses rose from the road, the warriors set out from the hunting ground. When Gushtasp turned his ear toward it, he spoke to the famous chieftains: This can only be the sound of Zarir's horse, for its voice is like a lion's roar. And if he has come, he has not come alone, but has come with an army ready for war. He was still saying this when purple dust appeared, and a banner shaped like an elephant. Zarir, the army's commander, at the head of his troops, came down the road like a roaring wind. When he saw Gushtasp, he went to him in tears, dismounted and hurried to him on foot. He began to praise the Maker of the world, and offered his devotion before his brother. They took each other in their arms, and sat down joyfully in that meadow. Every leader in the army, King Gushtasp called each one a hero. He summoned them and seated them near, and they spoke of matters from every side. One famous man among them said to Gushtasp: O hero of the golden belt, the astrologers of Iran, all of them, every one we know to be a seeker of knowledge, say from your star that you will be like Kaykhosrow, that you will rise to kingship on the throne of greatness. Now, if you take the crown of the king of India, we will not agree with it. None of them worships God, and none stands with the king in loyalty. Consider well what reason approves: how can wisdom obey such a king? Your father has been wholly good to you, I do not understand why you are so hurt. Gushtasp said to him: O seeker of honor, I have no standing before my father. He wishes the good for the sons of Kavus, the greatness and the royal crown for them. If he hands the crown of Iran to me, I will worship him as an idolater worships idols. But if not, I will not stay at his court, nor keep my heart bright by his moon-like face. I will go where they cannot find me, and leave all the land and its wealth to Lohrasp. He said this and turned back from that meadow, and came before the famous king. When Lohrasp heard, he and his nobles came out to meet him with a great army. The world-seeker saw his father's face again, dismounted from his horse and bowed to him. Lohrasp held him tightly to his chest, and began to make his apology with kindness: May your crown be the crown atop the moon, may the demon's hand be cut short from you, and may it never teach you an evil path, for an evil counselor stood at the king's door. From kingship mine is only the name, the crown, the throne; yours is the love, the command, the covenant, and the fortune. Gushtasp said to him: O king, I am but a servant at your door. If you lessen my rank, I will obey, and pledge my very soul to keep the covenant. The nobles went with him along the way, striding proudly toward the king's palace. They adorned the jewel-inlaid hall, laid out the feast and sweet wine. They held such a celebration that from the sky the stars poured down upon the feasting ground. Such was the drunkenness that every lord rose up with a crown of gold on his head. Lohrasp was glad for the sons of Kavus, and always kept the memory of Kaykhosrow. From that grief Gushtasp bled inwardly, and spoke of every kind of worry to his guide. He said: however much I plan and strive, I can find no remedy for this. If I set out with horsemen to gain a leader's rank, he will send an army after me, to turn me back from the road by some scheme, with many pleas and pieces of advice. And if I go alone, I feel the shame, my heart stays heavy toward Lohrasp. His heart is glad for the sons of Kavus, his love does not pass to his own kin. When I am but one man, few will want me, how would anyone know that I became a king?

On the dark night, Gushtasp took a swift black horse and saddled it for the road. He put on a robe of Roman gold brocade and hung a phoenix plume from his crown. He gathered up as many gold coins and royal jewels as he would need. He set off from Iran toward Rome, his heart set on a throne, his soul searching for the way. When his father learned that Gushtasp had gone, he was thrown into turmoil and his joy was cut short. He summoned Zarir and all the wise men and spoke to them at length about Gushtasp. He said to them: this lion of a man means to seize a crowned head and lay it low. What do you see, and what remedy do you have? You cannot take this lightly. The wise priest said: this fortunate one knows that crown and throne are precious in the hands of true men. No one ever had a son like Gushtasp, nor has anyone among the famous ever heard of such a one. You must send men out in every direction, brave nobles who can come to the rescue. If he comes back, do not be harsh; seek honor and do not keep company with greed. For the crown of kings has seen many like you, and its love never stays fixed on anyone. Give Gushtasp a realm of this world, and set a famous crown upon his head. Apart from the renowned champion Rustam, we see no rider in the world to match him. In stature, in bearing, in learning and wit, no ear has ever heard of one so renowned. Lahrasp sent out a number of nobles, and they began to search the whole world. They went and came back with no hope, for they had returned under an unlucky star. The blame in this fell to Lahrasp, while the grief and bodily suffering fell to Gushtasp.

When Gushtasp reached the sea, he climbed down and saw that a toll was expected. There was an old man named Hishoy, generous, alert, wise, and capable. Gushtasp praised him and said: may wisdom be a companion to your pure soul. I am a renowned scribe from Iran, wise, bright of heart, and quick to learn. If you carry me by boat across this water, I will owe you gratitude forever. The old man answered: you seem fit for a crown, or for armor, sword, and conquest. Now unlock your secret and tell me the truth; do not seek to cross the sea like this. If you speak honestly, I must have a gift; where is your skill and knack for scribing? When Gushtasp heard Hishoy's words he said: I hide nothing from you. Whatever you want, I will not withhold, of this crown, this seal, these coins, and this sword. He gave Hishoy a handful of gold coins, and the man was glad to take the gift. He quickly raised the boat's sail and carried the world-seeker toward Caesar's land. There was a great city in the West, its breadth more than three leagues wide. It was built by Salm, a mighty place, the seat of powerful Caesars. When Gushtasp came to that city, he searched for some place of work. For a whole week he wandered through the West, looking for work in that prosperous land. Once he had eaten and given away all he had, he went on, joyless and full of grief. After roaming a while through the flourishing city, he passed from the palace to Caesar's court. He told the bishop: my helper, I am a renowned scribe from Iran. I will assist you in this work; whatever comes to the court, I will handle to your liking. The scribes who were at the court looked at one another. For under this hand the steel pen would weep, and the face of the paper would scorch. Such a man needs a tall horse beneath him, a bow on his arm and a lasso on his saddle. They said aloud: for us he is a loss as a scribe; his coming among us is unwelcome. When Gushtasp heard this, his heart full of pain, he left the court with pale cheeks. He drew a cold sigh from his liver and came near Caesar's shepherd. The young man's name was Nastav, brave, shrewd, and full of vigor. When he approached Nastav, he praised him and bowed low before him. The shepherd looked at him, welcomed him, and seated him close beside himself. He said: tell me, what kind of man are you? For you seem both of royal stock and a seeker of renown. He answered: renowned one, I can break in a colt, brave and skilled in the saddle. If you favor me, I will be useful to you, and stand by you through hardship and misfortune too. Nastav said: turn away from this door; you are a stranger here and a man without footing. There are deserts, seas, and horses set loose; how can I hand a flock to someone I do not know? When Gushtasp heard this, he left grieving and took the road to Caesar's camel drivers. He greeted the camel driver: may you be victorious and bright of soul. When the wise man saw Gushtasp's face, he received him and chose a place for him. He quickly spread out a rug and brought something to eat. Gushtasp said to the camel driver: this man is alert and bright of soul. Give me a caravan of camels; whenever you wish, take our wages back too. The camel driver said: lion-hearted man, this line of work will never suit you. Since you make so little of what we own, it would be better if you sought out Caesar. These words will free you from all need; go nowhere but to Caesar's court. And if you have lost your way, I keep a good camel and a man to guide you. Gushtasp praised him and left him, and turned his face toward the city, full of grief. Those sorrows lay heavy on his heart; he came to the bazaar of the blacksmiths. There was a famous man named Burab, an admired and contented blacksmith. He made shoes for the king's horses; he held rank with Caesar himself. He had thirty-five helpers and apprentices, worn down by hammer and iron. Gushtasp sat long at his shop, until the craftsman grew tired of his sitting there. The blacksmith said: good-natured one, what do you want at our shop? He answered: fortunate one, I do not shy away from the hammer or from hard work. If you keep me, I will help you; I will ride hard on this hammer and anvil. When Burab heard his tale, he agreed to take him on as a helper. He heated a heavy iron ball in the fire, and when it glowed he hurried it to the anvil. They handed Gushtasp a heavy hammer, and the blacksmiths gathered around him. He struck with the hammer and shattered both anvil and iron ball; the bazaar filled with talk of him. Burab grew afraid and said: young man, iron cannot withstand your blow. No hammer, no fire, no anvil, no bellows; when Gushtasp heard this, he grew downcast. He threw down the hammer and went off hungry, with no food to eat and no place to rest. For no one do days of hardship and pain endure, nor ease, nor joy, nor treasure. Good and bad both pass over us; whoever has wisdom does not stay downcast.

Gushtasp lived with a broken heart, crying out and raging against the high heavens. The world had given him nothing but poison. Near a city he came upon a village. Trees and flowers and running streams: a joyful resting place for the young man. A thick, leafy tree stood before the water, its shade hiding him from the eye of the sun. In that shade the young man sat down, full of pain, twisting in torment, his spirit dark. He said: O just Creator, grief is all this life has handed me. I see no fault in my own star. I don't know why misfortune keeps falling on me. A well known man from that fine village, its headman, happened to pass by that way. He saw him there, eyes filled with blood, resting his chin upon his hand like a prop. He said to him: O noble young man, why are you so full of pain, your spirit so dark? If you would come to my house, be my guest for a while and find some cheer. Perhaps this sorrow on your heart will ease, and the tips of your lashes will dry of tears. Gushtasp said to him: O man of renown, tell me, whose line do you come from? The headman answered him: What use is such a question to you now? I am of the seed of the brave king Fereydun, a line from which none in the world is base. When Gushtasp heard this, he rose to his feet and went along with the noble headman. When that chief came to his own home, he made his hall ready for his guest. He treated him like a brother, never leaving him for a moment unwilling. Some time passed over this in this way, and several months went by upon this affair.

It was the Caesar's custom in those days that when his daughter came of age, and her fortune rose high and she sought a mate, he saw that the time for marriage had come. He would gather an assembly at his palace: the great, the wise, and the counselors, everyone who was her equal, all the famous men of high and noble bearing. From her father's palace the moon-faced girl would walk among that gathering, seeking her mate. Servants would move around her, so that her crown could not be seen through the crowd. In the Caesar's private quarters in those days, three daughters were famous throughout the world, for their height, their beauty, their gentle grace, their fitness and their worthiness. The eldest was named Katayun: wise, bright of heart, and full of joy. One night Katayun dreamed that the whole country shone bright with sunlight. An assembly of men appeared, and from the crowd of people one rose like the Pleiades. At the head of the gathering sat a stranger: a foreigner, heart-wounding and wise, tall as a cypress and with a face like the moon, he sat as though upon a king's throne. Katayun gave him a bouquet, and from him she took a bouquet of color and scent. The Caesar gathered a great assembly of all who were strong and mighty. At dawn, when the sun blazed forth, the heads of the famous men rose from sleep. They seated them gladly in that assembly, and then they summoned the fairy-faced girl. Katayun came with sixty attendants, each holding a bunch of flowers in hand. She kept circling until she grew weary, but no one in that crowd pleased her. From the great hall she turned toward her chamber, walking swiftly, still searching for her mate. Just then the earth turned black as a raven's wing, until the lamp of dawn rose over the mountain. The Caesar commanded that from the lowborn to the wealthy nobles throughout the land of Rome, they should all be brought to the high palace, so that one might be found she liked. When word reached every noble, every famous man and champion, the wise host said to Gushtasp: 'Why do you keep yourself so hidden? Go, so that perhaps by seeing a crown and a throne of greatness your heart may empty itself of sorrow.' When Gushtasp heard this he went with him, hurrying swiftly to the Caesar's hall. He withdrew to a corner, away from the great ones, and sat in secret, wounded and full of pain. The alert-hearted attendants set out: Katayun and the flower-faced servants. She walked around her hall, the wise ones behind her and the servants ahead. When she saw Gushtasp from afar she said: 'That dream has lifted its head from hiding.' Upon that worthy, famous man she placed her crown, and at once her happy head was adorned. When the wise tutor saw this, he ran at once to the Caesar and said: 'She has chosen a man from the assembly, tall as a straight cypress in a meadow, with a face like a rose garden, broad of shoulder and neck, so that anyone who sees him is left astonished. The trouble is that we do not know who he is; you would say he is nothing but divine glory itself.' He answered thus: 'Better my daughter were dead than that she bring shame upon our lineage.' 'If I hand her over to him, my head will sink low in disgrace. Both him and the one she has chosen must have their heads cut off in the palace.' The bishop said: 'This is no heavy matter; there were leaders before you as well. You told your daughter to seek a partner; you did not say to seek a proud Roman. Now she has sought the one who pleased her; do not turn your head from the path of God. Such was the custom of your ancestors, your proud, devout, and pure forebears. By this custom Rome's foundation was laid; do not take a different path in this flourishing land. It will not be blessed, so do not even say it; do not walk a road you have never traveled.'

When the emperor heard this, he resolved to give his precious daughter to Gushtasp. He told her: go with him just as you are; you will get no treasure, crown, or signet ring from me. When Gushtasp saw this he was stunned, and he called on the Creator of the world again and again. He said to the proud young woman: you who were raised with honor and comfort, out of so many famous nobles and princes, why did your choice fall on me? You are choosing a stranger who has no wealth, and you will stay with him in hardship. Look for an equal among these proud men, someone who would bring honor to your father. Katayun said to him: you doubting man, do not quarrel with the turning of the sky. If I am content with you and with my fate, why should you go seeking a crown and a throne? Grieving, Katayun and Gushtasp left the emperor's palace out into the cold wind. The village headman said to the husband and wife: be content and hopeful. The headman gave them an empty house, food, and the best bedding he had. When Gushtasp saw this, he blessed that noble and honest headman. Katayun had countless jewels, rubies, and every kind of gem in abundance. She picked out one gem from among them, the like of which no wise eye had ever seen. They took it to a jeweler, who accepted it with boundless gratitude. He paid six thousand gold coins for the ruby, from a treasury fit for a king. They bought what they needed, things suitable even for such hard days. They lived as fate had dealt them, sometimes happy, sometimes weeping. Gushtasp's whole occupation was hunting; all year long he carried quiver and arrows. It so happened that one day, coming back from the hunting ground, his road led him past Hishuy's place. He had bagged all sorts of game, and rode on with his quiver full of arrows. Everything he had caught, large and small, he brought near to Hishuy's door. When Hishuy saw him, he came running, gladly welcoming him with a joyful heart. He spread bedding beneath him and brought out something to eat. Gushtasp rested and ate a little, then hurried back to Katayun like the wind. Gushtasp befriended Hishuy and, through knowledge, grew as close to him as body and skin. Whenever he went from the town to hunt deer, on his way back he gave Hishuy two shares. Another share went to the headman of the village, whoever was the leading man there. So it came about that Gushtasp and the headman became as one in eating, in rest, and in counsel.

There was a Roman lord named Merin, proud and wise, rich and blessed with all he wished. He sent a message to the Caesar: I am a man of high standing, of treasure and fame. Give me your daughter, who comforts the heart; through me, renew your name and your crown. The Caesar answered: from this day on I will not seek a marriage tie in this way. Katayun and that unworthy man held me back from doing such a thing. Now, whoever seeks kinship with me, or lifts his head hoping to rise near me, must perform one great deed, one the mighty nobles here will speak of. Only then would I have such a famous champion in the world, a helper on this earth. He must go to the edge of the forest of Fasequn and wash his heart, his hands, and his mind in blood. He will see a wolf the color of indigo, with the body of a dragon and the strength of an elephant. It has horns and tusks like a boar; no elephant dares to come near it. No fierce lion passes through that forest, no elephant, no bold and bloodthirsty man. Whoever tears its hide will be my friend, my son in law, my ally. Merin said: by this native land, by the Creator who founded Rome, our ancestors never fought the great except with a heavy mace. Now the Caesar makes demands of me and speaks to me with the tone of a grudge. I will find a remedy for this now, and think of every clean and clever plan. When the worthy man returned to his hall, he recalled all sorts of schemes. He brought out his writings and set before him his star chart, his horoscope, his omen. He saw that at a certain time a famed hero would come from Iran. By his hand three great deeds would be done, feats the Roman lords would recount. One: he would become the Caesar's son in law, and the Caesar's crown would rest upon his head. Two beasts would appear across the land, and everyone struck by their evil would meet ruin. Both would perish by his hand; no strong man could make him afraid. He knew of Katayun's affair, that she was joined with brave Goshtasp, and of Hishuy and that fame seeking lord, that all three would turn their faces toward this. He came swiftly to Hishuy and told him, from beginning to end, all that had passed, and of the star the Roman philosophers foretold, the wonder that would come to that borderland. Hishuy said to him: today, stay glad with us, in friendship and justice. For this man you described is a famous one among the proud. His mind is set on hunting; he gives no thought to the throne of the eastern king. There was not a single day he failed to come to me, and my darkened soul grew bright. He will come now from the hunting ground; his path surely leads to us. He brought wine and lute, with scent and color, and they sat down, golden cups in hand. Just as the fourth round of wine went by, a rider raised dust across the plain. When Hishuy and Merin saw the dust, they went out to meet him on the field. When Merin saw him, he said to Hishuy: this man has no equal in the world. With such a build, such a neck, such a strong grip, he must be a hero of noble stock. His talents surpass even his appearance: his modesty, his sense of shame, his wisdom. When Goshtasp drew near, both men dismounted from their warhorses. A fresh seat was arranged by the water, and a new table quickly set. Wine was brought with new drinking companions, a new gathering and new friends. When cheeks turned ruby red with ruby wine, Hishuy said to Goshtasp: O great one, you call me your friend on this earth, and know no one but me. Now Merin has taken refuge with me; he is a famous man of high position, a scribe, learned and honored, who reckons the courses of the lofty sky, who speaks of the philosophers of Rome, of every land, its ruins and its bloom. He descends from the line of Salm; father to father he keeps the names in memory. He holds the sword of Salm, which stayed all these years under Salm's keeping. He is a rider who unhorses foes and takes lions, who can bring an eagle down from the sky with an arrow. He too wants to rise higher by becoming kin to the Caesar of Rome. He spoke to the Caesar and heard the reply, and that answer set his heart ablaze. For the Caesar said: in the forest of Fasequn there is a wolf as huge as a camel. If that wolf is slain by your hand, you will be a great and honored guest in Rome. You will be a world ruler and my son in law; fate will grant me my due in fine fashion. Now if you take this task in hand, I am your servant, and this proud man is yours. Goshtasp said: this deed is well and good, but what do they say, and where is this forest now? What kind of beast can there be in the world that both low and high men fear? Hishuy said: this old wolf is larger than a mighty camel. Its two fangs are like an elephant's tusks; its eyes drip blood, its hide is like indigo. Its horns are like beams of ebony; when it grows angry it charges over two horses at once. Many famous Caesars set out from here with heavy maces. They came back from that forest defeated, full of shame, their bodies in torment. Goshtasp said: bring the sword of Salm and the swift, proud horse of Merin. I call this a dragon, not a wolf; do not think it a mere wolf, but a great camel of a beast. When Merin heard this, he left the place and rode swiftly home. From his stable he chose a black horse, a precious coat of mail, and a Roman helmet, and that valuable diamond bright sword, which Salm had tempered in poison and blood. He picked out many gifts from his treasury: rubies and jewels, all in fives. When the sun tore off its pitch black shirt and came out from behind the veil, the world seeking Merin left his hall and came swiftly to Hishuy. Goshtasp turned that way from the hunt; Hishuy looked and caught sight of him. They marveled at the horse and the sword; as he came closer, they went out to greet him. When Goshtasp looked over those gifts, he chose the horse and the sword from among them. He gave the rest to Hishuy, and it lifted the spirit of the world seeker. Goshtasp put on the coat of mail like dust and mounted the warhorse beneath him. Bow strung, lasso on his arm, a proud rider on a tall horse, Hishuy went along the road with him, and the world seeking Merin, who had cried for help. So they went, twisting and turning, hearts full of blood, until they reached the edge of the forest of Fasequn.

When they came near the thicket, the wolf's den, both Mirin and the great man shrank back. He pointed with his right hand for Goshtasp, showing where that dragon had its lair. Then both turned away in pain, hearts full of blood and eyes brimming with pale tears. Hishvi said: this proud young man is brave and wise and skilled in battle, yet I fear the wolf's claws will destroy this splendid youth. When Goshtasp drew near that thicket, his warrior heart filled with worry. He dismounted from his noble steed, came before God, and bowed in prayer. He said: O pure Creator, you who kindle the turning of time, be my helper against this evil; have mercy on the life of old Lohrasp. For if this great dragon, that the foolish call a wolf, should prove the master over me, when my father hears, he will cry out and never sleep again. He will be left in pain like one senseless, wailing to all, seeking any trace of me. If I am worn down by this vile beast, I will hide my face from the crowd in shame. He said this, mounted his horse, roaring and seething, a sword in his hand, a strung bow upon his arm, and rode on, alert and full of fire. When the rider closed in along the road, he thundered like a spring cloud. When the wolf saw him from the thicket's edge, it hurled a howl up to the black clouds. It tore at the ground with its claws, unlike any lion's or leopard's grip. When Goshtasp saw that dragon, he strung his bow and drew it back. Swift as the wind he loosed a storm of arrows, wielding the bow like a spring rain-cloud. The beast was wounded by Goshtasp's arrows, and its ferocity was joined with pain. The wolf rested, then rose from its place and came on like a huge camel. Its horns thrust forward like a stag's, its body sore with wounds, its heart full of blood. As it charged along toward the horse, it struck a horn against the black flank. It ripped the beast from groin to navel; the world-seeker drew the sword from his belt. On foot he struck the wolf across its middle, splitting its back, neck, and chest in two. He came before the Lord over all beasts, the Lord of all knowledge, good and evil. He gave praise to the Creator: O maker of all time, you are the guide of those who have lost their way, you are the highest of all, the one God. Every triumph and desire comes from your will; all glory and wisdom come from your name. When he rose from the place of prayer, he pulled out the two long fangs the beast had had. Alone he set out from that thicket, walking until he reached the sea. By the water Hishvi and Mirin sat in grief, their tongues full of remembering him. Their talk was of Goshtasp and the wolf, of that brave and mighty rider, how he was now deep in a great battle, torn apart in the wolf's claws. Then Goshtasp appeared on foot, covered in blood, his face like a yellow blossom. When they saw him, they leaped up and broke into wailing lament. In grief they took him in their arms, faces pale, lashes wet like spring clouds. They asked: how did your fight with the wolf go? Our hearts have bled over your task. Goshtasp said: O wise one, in Rome there is no fear of God among you. You would let such a fierce dragon linger in the land for long years, until it rose up and laid a whole world to waste, treating the Caesar himself like a fistful of dust. I struck the brute in two with my sword; now your terror and dread are ended. Go quickly and see the wonder; no one has ever seen such a hide. It is like a mighty elephant in a skin; the whole thicket is its height and breadth. The two of them ran to that thicket, cheered and light of heart at his words. They saw a wolf tall as an elephant, with a lion's claws and blue-black hide, wounded from head to foot; it looked like two lions fallen there. When they saw it, they praised him, that glorious sun of the earth. With glad hearts they came back from the thicket and approached that battling lion of a man. Mirin brought him many gifts, such as befitted a man like him. But he accepted nothing except another horse, and from there he turned his face toward home. When he came home from the sea to his rest, the keen-eyed Katayun came out to him. She asked: where did you find this armor, that you rushed off from here to the hunt? He answered: from my own city a group of noble men came, and gave me this armor, sword, and helmet as gifts, with greetings from my kin. Katayun brought wine like rosewater and drank with her husband till bedtime. The two, lucky as stars, lay down content; but again and again the young man started from his sleep, seeing in his dreams the battle with the wolf, like fighting a great male dragon. Katayun asked him: what was it tonight, that you keep waking in fear like this? He answered: I saw my own throne in the dream, my star and my fortune. Katayun understood that he was of royal blood, single-hearted and true in nature, a great man who would not speak of it, who sought no rank from the Caesar. Goshtasp said to her: O moon-faced one, jasmine-cheeked, silver-breasted, fragrant as musk, make ready so we may go to Iran, and leave here to join the brave. You will see that blessed land and people, and the king who is just and generous. Katayun said: do not speak so rashly; do not seek to travel this road in haste. When you set your face to leave this place, call for Hishvi to come to you, so he may carry you across by boat; the world is made new for me only when you are here. I will stay behind in long anguish, not knowing when I will see you again. Before setting out, they wept into their clothes, seared by the fire of that sorrow. When the turning sun blazed from the sky, the wakeful young ones, full of hope, rose from that hall of feasting and turned to talk of every kind, wondering how the heavens would treat them, whether the world would pass them harshly or with kindness. On the other side, Mirin sped off like the wind and hurried swiftly to the Caesar. He said: O great and famous one, the wolf's ravages have come to an end. The whole thicket, from end to end, was a dragon; it is right that you too should see the wonder. It came raging and rushed at me, but it met a dagger in my grip. It was split in two from head to waist; the demon's heart was struck with dread by that wound. The Caesar swelled with pride at his words; his withered face lit up. He ordered ox-drawn carts made ready and the royal pavilion carried out of the city. They set up a place of feasting and called for wine, music, and minstrels. They drove the oxen hauling the carts to that thicket where the wolf's trace remained. They went and saw a raging elephant of a beast, cut with a dagger from head to waist. When they dragged it out of the meadow onto the strong ox-drawn carts, a whole world came to gaze at that old wolf; no mere wolf, but a raging, mighty lion. When the Caesar saw that body like a maddened elephant, he clapped his hands again and again in joy. That same day the Caesar summoned the bishop, brought him to the palace, and gave his daughter to Mirin. They wrote letters to every land, to each priest, patrician, and noble, saying that Mirin, the lion, that proud man of Rome, had cleared the country of the fearsome wolf.

There was a man younger than Mirin in years, a Roman champion with a proud neck. They called him Ahren, from the line of great men, and said his body was like bronze, invincible. He sent a message to the Caesar: You know our lineage and our name. In every quality I surpass Mirin; in sword and in treasure I stand higher. So give me your younger daughter now, and refresh your army and crown through me. The Caesar answered: You have surely heard the promise I made with my God. That this daughter will not choose a husband unless I break with the ways of my ancestors. Like Mirin, you must accomplish one task; then you may be a rival to him. On Mount Saqila there is a dragon that keeps the whole land in danger and terror. If you rid Rome of this dragon, I will hand you my daughter, my treasure, and my realm. For it is the equal of that lion-slaying wolf: its breath is poison, and it is a snare of the devil. Ahren answered: I will obey; for this desire I will pledge my very life. He left the Caesar's presence, his heart torn by those words and his soul full of blood. He told his friends: that wound to the wolf could only be dealt by a great man's sword. How could such a feat come from Mirin? The Caesar cannot tell a true man from a mere man. I will go and ask him; perhaps he will tell me the secret of his clever scheme. He went swiftly to Mirin's hall, and a servant went and announced him. Mirin had a seat of such splendor that the moon in the sky holds no place like it. The warrior sat in his brave armor, a Caesar's crown upon his head. The servant said: Ahren, mighty as an elephant, has come to the door with a company of men. Mirin prepared a more fitting place and sent away those who were less needed. No one remained in Mirin's hall; the two lords sat alone upon the throne. When Mirin saw him, he took him in his arms and began to greet the great man. Ahren said to him: Tell me the truth, and do not make excuses for anything I ask. My desire is the Caesar's daughter, who is the crown of all Rome. I asked, and this was his answer: Go make war on the dragon in the mountains. If you would tell me the truth of that wolf's deed, you would be my great guide. When Mirin heard Ahren's words, he wilted, and thought sank deep in his mind. If I tell Ahren the truth of that famous champion's deed, it will no longer stay hidden. The foundation of manhood is honesty; one must weep over darkness and crookedness. Perhaps if I tell him, that brave rider will lay the dragon's head down beside him. With Ahren as my friend and support, the enemy will hold nothing but wind in his fist. We will raise dust from that rider's head, and for a while this affair will stay concealed. He said to Ahren: I will tell you the truth of the wolf, if I have a solemn oath from you, That you will never, day or night, speak of this matter, nor part your two lips about it. Ahren swore that heavy oath and accepted every condition he set. When Mirin dressed the paper in the pen's robe, he wrote a letter to Heyshui. It read: Ahren, of the Caesar's line, a world-seeking man with treasure, throne, and justice, seeks a daughter from the Caesar, the younger one who remains among his daughters. The dragon is a trap set for Ahren; he strives to conquer that ill-marked beast. He came to me seeking a plan, and I disclosed to him the past events. About that wolf and that battle-tested rider, I told him everything that mattered. Just as you served my cause so well, without doubt you will serve this good man's cause. You will make two men lords in this land, placing the crown upon them like the sun. Ahren the schemer set out running, turning his face toward Heyshui. When Ahren reached the sea, the world-seeking Heyshui ran out to meet him. He took the welcome letter from him, praised its bearer, and broke its seal. Heyshui said to him: O noble man, now the dragon will come like a whirlwind. A famous young stranger sacrificed his soul before Mirin. Now, when he fights the fierce dragon, no scheme will save him from it. The telling is mine, but the deed is in his hands; good speech is welcome everywhere. Tonight be a good host to him: set out the candles and make the sea beautiful. For tomorrow the famous one will come; tell him whatever you have to tell. They lit the sea's water with candles, ate their food, and called for wine. So they stayed until the dawn of yellow ruby struck sunlight upon the lapis glass of the sky. A rider's dust appeared from the plain, and from afar famous Ahren saw it. When he drew near, the bright-souled man came running on foot to greet him. The battle-rider dismounted from his steed and asked the noble man for wine and food. Heyshui opened his lips sharply: May you be joyful, famous one, day and night. Look at this man of the Caesar's line, for whom the turning heavens have grown glad. He too is of the Caesars' stock; he has glory and name, treasure and wealth. He has set his mind on becoming the Caesar's son-in-law, and seeks a guide in the matter. The Caesars have no equal to him: a youth with glory, stature, and strength. He asked once and heard the answer; now another scheme has come to light. The Caesar tells him: be a dragon-slayer if you wish to join the Caesar's kin. Day and night, before the great men, he speaks no name but Mirin's. Anyone with a fair fortune would wish that crown and throne pass to him. There is a high mountain not far from here, all a place of feasting, pleasure, and delight. A dragon sits atop the mountain's peak, and the people of Rome are worn out by it. It draws vultures down from the sky and hauls fierce crocodiles up from the sea. Its poisonous smoke burns the earth; no one blesses this land and soil anymore. If that beast is slain by your hand, you will become a wonder throughout the world. In this the pure God will be your helper, and the turning sun will bend to your wish. With this strength, stature, and prowess, we know no champion who is your equal. He said to him: Go, forge a long dagger, its hilt a hand's height, spread out like five talons of a hawk. On every side of it, like serpent's teeth, fix spearpoints jutting out like thorns. Tempered in poison and blood, keen as diamond and the color of water. By the command of victorious God, I will hang the dragon upside down upon a tree.

Ahren went off and brought everything Goshtasp had asked for, once the tasks were all in order. He set his foot from the sea into the saddle, and his companions rode out with him. When Heshvi caught sight of Mount Saqila, he pointed it out and drew himself back. He and Ahren turned away from the spot just as the sun raised its spear over the heights. The hero stood before that mountain, the lair where the stubborn serpent rested. When the towering dragon saw him, it tried to drag him toward itself with its breath. As he hung his helmet from the front of the saddle, arrows rained down on the beast like hail. When he closed in tight on that dragon, the young man kept looking for a way clear of it. Swiftly he thrust the dagger into its mouth, remembering the good grace of the Creator. The dragon bit down hard on that dagger, and all its blades sank deep into its throat. The whole mountain was washed with poison and blood; venom poured out of it until it went limp. Then the lion of a man reached for his sword and struck the head of the bold dragon. Its brains spilled out across the hard rock, and the fortunate warrior came down from his horse. First he pulled two teeth from its jaws, then came and washed his head and body clean. Crying out, he rolled himself upon the earth before the victorious Lord, for granting him such great power over that wolf and that monstrous dragon. He kept saying: Lohrasp and noble Zarir have grown weary of Goshtasp, body and soul. With clear spirit, heart, strength, and fire, they surely will not even see me in a dream. I see nothing but pain and hardship from the world, my antidote everywhere scattered as poison. Perhaps the Creator will grant me life enough to see the face of that king just once. And the fair face of my brother Zarir, to tell them I have grown tired of the crown. To tell them what fate has done to me: I sought a throne, and the throne was lost. With eyes full of tears he mounted his horse, that same tempered dagger in his hand. When he reached Heshvi and Ahren, he told them all of the wonder he had seen. He said to Ahren: that dragon was made worthless by this sharp dagger. You were filled with terror at the great dragon's breath, undone by the deed of the wolf. But for me, battle is against brave chieftains, proud men wielding heavy maces. The crocodile comes fierce from the fight, rising up from the depths to do battle. I have seen many a dragon like this, and never once turned my head from the fight. Heshvi and Ahren listened to his words, ancient wisdom spoken by this newcomer. When those two proud warriors heard his voice, they came and bowed low before him. They said to Goshtasp: O lion of a man, no mother has ever borne a hero as brave as you. Ahran brought many gifts, precious horses richly adorned. He took up a sword and a warhorse, a bow and three arrows of white poplar wood. To Hishvi he gave all the rest there was: the gold and the unworn garments. Then Goshtasp said to those defiant men: no one here should carry any token of this deed, nor should I, though I have seen the fierce dragon and heard the roaring of that wolf. Then, glad and cheerful, he left that place and hurried swiftly toward Katayun. Ahran set off and hauled the ox-drawn cart, handing the dragon's body over to his servants, saying: Carry this to the court of Caesar, take it before the great ones of the army. He himself went ahead of the oxen and the cart and hurried swiftly to Caesar's side. In Rome they got word of it, and the seasoned men of the world rushed forward. When the ox-cart came down from the mountain onto the plain, a great uproar rose among the crowd, over that wound and that grim dragon, whose weight lay so heavily on the ox-cart. From the heights came a chirping, thin cry, as if the ox no longer had strength in its body. Everyone who saw that sword-stroke and heard the groaning of the ox-cart said: This is Ahran's dagger, or else the lion-slaying blow of a demon. At once Caesar rode out from his palace and summoned the nobles and the wise. He held a feast over that dragon, from dawn until the world turned deep blue. When the sun set its crown upon the sky, the face of ivory turned to the color of molten gold. Caesar's messenger called the bishop, questioned him, and seated him on a golden throne. Of the patriarchs and the priests of the city, everyone who had a share of noble worth gathered before the high priest, the worldly-wise, together with Caesar and his counselors. Then they gave the daughter to Ahran, with the loving consent of her mother. When the crowd had scattered from the palace, the heart of the famed king was revived by that news. He said: Today is my day; the high heaven itself lights up my heart, for no one in the world, neither the humble nor the great, will ever see two sons-in-law like mine. They wrote letters to every lord who held a throne or wore a crown, saying that the fierce dragon, along with the proud wolf, had been destroyed by the hands of two mighty men. He built a pavilion before his palace, raised up as radiant as his own throne. His two sons-in-law would ride into the field, delighting his happy heart. With arrow and polo mallet and the thrust of the spear, they gathered their reins in pursuit of skill. They galloped left and right so well you would say horsemanship itself suited them best. Time passed like this until Katayun came, ready to teach and advise. She said to Gushtasp: You sit here so gloomy, why do you fill your heart with sorrow and worry? In Rome there were two great nobles, men with crowns, treasure, and glory. One of them killed a fierce dragon; he faced great danger and never turned his back. The other tore the hide off a wolf; all of Rome rings with his fame. On the emperor's field, in honor and combat, they raise the dust up to the sky. Go and watch there, where the emperor is; perhaps your heart's pain will lighten. Gushtasp said to her: My lovely one, when has the emperor ever shown me justice or kindness? He drove you out of the city with me; when he sees me, what humanity could he possibly show? But if this is what you want, I will not turn from your counsel, my guide. He came to the field and reached the emperor, and waited there until he saw the polo strokes. He asked one of them for a ball and mallet and drove it straight into the midst of the riders. He spurred his mount forward, and the champions all felt their hands and feet go numb. No one on the field could even find the ball; it vanished from the world at his stroke. Wherever the riders found his ball, they did not rush to strike it with their mallets. The Romans turned pale then, all of them, murmuring and talking among themselves. They took up bows and arrows of white poplar, and several war-riders set out. When Gushtasp saw this, he rose and said: Now is no time to hide one's skills. He threw down the mallet and took up a bow, and with string and bark he mastered them all. The emperor looked upon that proud man, at his grip, his shoulders, and his long stride in the stirrups. He asked: Where is this horseman from, who wheels so skillfully to the left and the right? I have seen many proud champions, but I have never heard of a rider like this. Call him so I may ask who he is; is he an angel, or a man like us? They summoned Gushtasp before him, and his ill-wisher's spirit twisted with unease. He said to Gushtasp: O battle-riding warrior, chief of the proud, crown of the battlefield, tell me your name, your city, and your lineage. But Gushtasp gave him no answer to this. He said only: I am that despised stranger whom the emperor drove far from his city. When I became his son in law, he drove me from his city; no one would speak my name from his records again. The emperor's cruelty fell on Katayun, because she chose a poor stranger for herself. She did nothing but follow the custom of the land, yet for her honesty she was met with scorn. There was the deadly wolf in the thicket, and on the great mountain the mighty dragon. Their heads were brought low by my blows; in that deed Hishvi was my good guide. Their fangs are in my house even now, and the mark of my dagger is the proof. Let the emperor ask Hishvi about it; this tale is fresh, it has not grown old. When Hishvi came, he brought the fangs and recounted all the past events before him. The emperor set his tongue to apologize and said to him, 'An injustice was done, young man.' 'Where is my beloved Katayun now? If she calls me a tyrant, she is right.' He grew furious with Mirin and Ahran and said that a secret can never stay hidden forever. At once he mounted his swift horse and came, seeking pardon, to that pure minded one. He showered blessings on his daughter, that chaste and wise woman. The emperor said to her, 'O moon faced one, you chose a husband truly worthy of you.' 'You have raised the whole family's head high with this good fortune you have made.' Then he asked her about her husband, hoping she might reveal his secret to her. 'Where is his home, his city, his lineage? Perhaps he has told you the truth.' She answered, 'I have asked him, but I have not found him on the path of plain truth.' 'He does not tell me his secret; he keeps his identity hidden from everyone.' 'I suspect he is of noble stock, for he is a fighter, valiant and mighty.' 'Whatever I ask, he never tells me fully; he only says his name is Farrokhzad.' From there the emperor returned to his palace, and the heavens too turned on for a while. When Gushtasp rose in the morning, that wise man set out toward the emperor. When the emperor saw him, he fell silent and seated him at the place of honor before that famous court. He called for a belt from the treasury, and a ring, and a renowned crown of lordship. He kissed him and then placed the crown on his head, recalling much of what had passed. He said to all who could remember: 'Be watchful, young and old alike.' 'Obey Farrokhzad in everything; do not stray from his words or his deeds.' News of this spread to every land, to every king and every noble.

The Khazar Caesar was the closest to him, and from these people his days grew darker. At the Khazar frontier lived chief Elias, who was the son of the world-ruler Mehras. The Caesar wrote a letter to Elias, so fierce you would think he had dipped his pen in blood. He wrote: For so long the Khazars have suffered loss; now the day of rest has finally arrived. Either pay tribute and levy and a heavy treasure, and send some of that land's chiefs as hostages, Or else Farrokhzad, like an enraged elephant, will come and crush your country like a fistful of dust. When Elias read that letter through, he dipped the tip of his pen in poison. He answered thus: There was never so much skill in all of Rome, from end to end. If I choose not to demand tribute from Rome, then be glad of that land and home of yours. You have taken such heart from a single rider, one who came to you seeking refuge. Know this: he is a snare set by the devil, and even if he were a mountain of iron, he is still just one man. Do not trouble him with this war, for I will not draw out my words at length. When the talk reached Mirin and Ahran, about Elias and the trap he had laid, Mirin sent a message to the Caesar: This is no dragon to walk into a snare. He is no wolf to be robbed of life by a trick, or writhe in agony from a smear of poison. When Elias grows angry in battle, he brings blood to the eyes of any warrior. Now watch how much this proud man will make him twist and struggle on the field of war. The Caesar grew troubled at their words, when he heard the way they haggled and argued. He said to Farrokhzad: You are noble, an ornament to Rome, like a jewel. Know that Elias is a slayer of lions; when he throws down a horse, he is like a brazen-bodied elephant. If you have the strength, then go to war with him; if not, do not lose your honor over this. If you cannot stand up to fighting him, we will arrange a good plan with him. I will gently turn him back from his path, and scatter his resolve with money and gifts. Goshtasp said to him: Why is there need for this searching about, and what is all this talk? As long as I ride my mount across the earth of this world, I have no fear at all of the Khazar frontier. But on the day of battle, no mention should be made of Mirin and Ahran, For in the fight, out of enmity, they will bring forth treachery and devilry. When the army comes from the Khazar frontier, be my guard, you and one son. By the power of the one victorious God, when I move forward with the army, I will leave neither Elias nor his army standing, nor all that greatness, throne, and crown. I will seize him by the belt and lift him from the saddle, raise him to the clouds, then dash him to the ground. The next day, when the sun rose up, gleaming like a golden shield upon the water, From the Khazar side the brazen trumpet blared, and dust rose straight up toward the sky. The proud Caesar said to Goshtasp: Now bring the army out from its hiding place. He said this and led the army out, drawing the champions and heroes onto the plain. He wheeled about with his ox-headed mace, like a tall cypress atop a mountain ridge. He searched the plain for a place to fight, raising dust from the ground up to the clouds. When Elias saw his chest and neck, and the way he swung his fist and his mace, He sent a rider toward him, to deceive that man of dark intent. The rider came and said: O proud one, do not raise your head so high for the Caesar's sake. For of this whole army you are now the horseman, you are its springtime, you are its famous man. Draw off to one side, away from between the two lines. Why do you stand there with froth upon your lips? For Elias is a lion on the day of battle; he charges in swifter than blowing dust. If you want a gift, he has treasure enough; do not wear out your hand striving for wealth. Choose for yourself one share of the world, and be famous for that share. I will be your friend and your servant, and I will never break faith with your pledge. Goshtasp said to him: This has turned cold; these words have gone beyond all measure. You were the one who thrust yourself forward into this contest, and now you back away from your own words. Talking is of no use now; this is the hour of war and the clash of battle. The messenger turned back and came like the wind, recalling his answer to Elias.

When the sun turned yellow over the mountain crest, the day's battle came to an end. Night arrived and drew a curtain of ebony over the amber face of the world. When the sun learned of that struggle again, it rose to its throne from the arc of its bow. The spring of daylight glowed like pale amber; from every side rose the blare of trumpets and drums. The clash of blades broke out on both sides; the whole battlefield ran in rivers of blood. Caesar came swiftly from the right wing and set his two sons-in-law behind the baggage lines. On the right wing stood Caesar's mighty son; on the left, Caesar himself with drums and elephants. The war cry rose from both armies; you would think the moon had grappled with the sun. Gushtasp moved out from the front of the ranks, a swift steed beneath him and a dragon-blade in hand. Elyas said to his gathered men, 'Caesar demands tribute from me.' 'When such a dragon stands at his door, no wonder his pride runs so high.' When Gushtasp saw Elyas, he said, 'Now is no time to hide one's skill.' Both riders spurred their horses on, with lance and armor-piercing arrow. From that army Elyas loosed his grip on the bow, meaning to bring Gushtasp low. Gushtasp drove his lance against his armor; that warrior's body was pierced in an instant. He hurled him from his mount like a drunken man, then reached out and seized his hand. He dragged him away before the horsemen and brought him and handed him over to Caesar. He led his troops to the front of the army and came down the road swift as the wind. How many of them he captured and killed; they slew everyone who came within reach. When the Romans joined together again in shouting, Gushtasp turned back from that place. He rode to Caesar, his army in full charge, in triumph and with head held high. When Caesar saw him coming on the road, he went out with his army to welcome him in joy. He kissed the head and eyes of that famous hero and gave thanks to the Creator of the world. From there they returned in gladness; the commander set the royal crown upon his head. All of Rome, with gifts and offerings, came rejoicing before the renowned one.

More time rolled by beneath the turning sky, while he kept his plan in his heart and showed no sign of it. That warrior said to Goshtasp: as long as you live, take your share from this world. Think this matter through with reason, for reason and words belong together. I will send an envoy to Iran, a man who has seen the world, honest and noble. I will tell Lohrasp: you hold half the world in peace, along with its greatest treasures. If you send tribute from your borders, you will see the true worth of your own wealth. Otherwise I will send an army from Rome so vast that the ground will vanish beneath their horses' hooves. He answered: this decision is yours; fate lies beneath the sole of your foot. There was a famous man named Qalus, wise, learned, thoughtful and capable. He summoned that renowned sage and said: go from here to the king's court. Tell him: if you pay Iran's tribute, submit to command and bow your neck, then the crown and throne of Iran will remain yours; you will rule the world and prosper. But if not, then with a mighty army from Rome and from the plains of the lancers, watch how a great roar will rise from the plain, with the victorious Farrokhzad leading the way. I will lay all your lands utterly to waste and strip Iran bare with the sword. The envoy set off swift as the wind, his head full of wisdom, his heart full of justice. When he reached the great king, he beheld that gate and that mighty court. When word reached the master of the audience hall, he came gracefully before the king. He said: a worldly-wise old man is at the gate; it seems he is the Caesar's envoy. Many renowned horsemen are with him, and he seeks an audience with the king. Hearing this, the king sat upon the ivory throne and placed the heart-brightening crown on his head. The nobles of Iran all sat before the throne, glad of heart and fortunate. He ordered the curtain drawn back and had the envoy admitted with honor. When he came up close to the throne, he blessed the king and bowed low before him. He delivered Caesar's weighty message just as custom and protocol required. The king grew grieved at his words and raged against the turning of fate. They prepared a fine place and seated the envoy with honor. He sent gold-woven carpets, clothing, and food. He treated him so kindly at the feast that you would think he had never heard talk of war. Night came, and he slept troubled, tossing with worry, as though joined to pain and grief. When the sun took its golden throne and dark night veiled its face, he ordered Zarir to come before him, and spoke long with the king of every matter. At dawn Qalus sought an audience, and they gave him access to the king. They cleared the hall of strangers and seated the envoy before the king. Lohrasp said to him: you full of wisdom, may no soul be nourished by anything but wisdom. I will ask you; answer truthfully. If you are wise, do not choose the path of falsehood. These talents did not exist in Rome; Caesar was once weak before the kings. Now he sends tribute-demanders to every land and has set his throne up to the moon. Take Elyas, who at the Khazar frontier was a champion, glorious and fierce in battle, yet Caesar seizes and binds him with an army; how was this path of tribute-seeking opened to him? The envoy said: you eloquent king, I myself went to demand tribute at the Khazar frontier. As a messenger I labored greatly, yet no one ever asked about this matter. But the king favored me in such a way that I need never bend my neck to falsehood. A horseman has come to him who can seize lions from the forests with his bare hands. On the day of battle he laughs at brave men, and at the feast he laughs over cups of wine. In feast, in battle, on the day of the hunt, no one on earth has seen a rider like him. Caesar gave him his most precious daughter, dearer to him than his own crown. He has become a legend throughout Rome; even a mighty dragon fell helpless in his grasp. There was a wolf on the plain, huge as an elephant, that Caesar dared not pass by. He struck it down and tore out its fangs, and by him the land of Rome was freed from harm. Lohrasp said to him: you truth-teller, whom does this battle-seeking man resemble? He answered: first of all, in his face he is truly the image of Zarir. In height, in looks, in learning and judgment, he is exactly like the brave Zarir. When Lohrasp heard this, his face lit up, and he showed kindness to that Roman man. He gave him many slaves and purses of gold, and he left the court victorious and glad. He told him: now go tell Caesar that I have come with an army, ready for war.

Lohrasp sat long, lost in thought, then gave the order for Zarir to be brought before him. He told him: this is no one but your own brother; hurry to handle this matter, and do not linger here. If you delay, the whole thing will fall apart. Do not rest, and do not let your horse slow down. Take the throne, the royal seat, the golden shoes, the crown, and the banner of Kaveh. I grant him this kingdom, and I lay this trust upon his head. Go from here to Aleppo, seeking vengeance; say nothing to the army but war. The praised Zarir said to Lohrasp: let us bring this secret out into the open. If he is the one who commands and holds the higher place, then whoever is greater than him becomes his subordinate. He said this, and at once set to work, choosing a distinguished army. Descendants of the great and the noble, from Kavus and from Gudarz son of Keshvad. And from the line of Zarasp as well were men like Bahram the lion-slayer and Rivniz. Every chieftain rode with two horses, blazing bright like sacred fire. No one rested until they reached the borders of Aleppo; the world filled with battle, uproar, and clamor. They raised the royal banner and pitched the great tents and pavilions. General Zarir left the army with the fierce Bahram and rode off himself. Like a man carrying a message, or one riding to visit a king. From his elite men he took five along, men who were sharp, alert, and brave. When he neared the court of the Caesar, he saw the chief of the audience hall at the gate. Fine brocade carpets had been spread at the door; the chief went to the Caesar and reported what he had seen. The Caesar sat gloomy within his palace, together with Qalus and Goshtasp. The chief of the hall informed him that the rider Zarir had come to the gate. When the Caesar heard this, he granted an audience; Goshtasp grew glad at his arrival. Zarir entered, tall as a cypress, and that noble man took a seat upon the throne. He greeted the Caesar and made his apologies, and paid honor to the Romans as well. The Caesar said to the noble-born prince: you do not ask after him, you show no affection in your heart. The fortunate Zarir answered the Caesar: this servant has grown tired of servitude. He came fleeing from the king's court, and has now found such standing here. When Goshtasp heard this, he gave no answer; you would think Iran had slipped entirely from his mind. When the Caesar heard these words from the young man, the clear-minded man fell into thought. Wondering whether what he said might be true, and whether there was nothing but honesty hidden in it. He delivered Lohrasp's message to the Caesar: if the just one does not turn his head from justice, From now on my seat is in Rome and nowhere else; we will not leave many men alive in Iran. So leave this place and tell him to make ready for war; now that you have heard, there must be no delay. Iran is no Khazar and no Elias of mine, that they should rise up out of that gathering. He answered thus: for battle I am ready to stretch out my grasp on every side. Now you, messenger, go back; we will inevitably prepare the field of war. When the fortunate Zarir heard the Caesar's reply, he grew grieved and long remained downcast at the answer.

When the Caesar rose, he said to Goshtasp: why have you kept your answer hidden? Goshtasp told him: before this, I served the king of the land of Iran. All the king's army and that whole gathering know well the skills I have. It is better that I go to them, speak my mind, and hear all they have to say. I will win from them everything you desire, and I will spread your name bright across the world. The Caesar told him: you know best, and you are more capable of this wish. When Goshtasp heard his words, he mounted the swift traveling steed. He came to Zarir's seat, a crown on his head and a wind-footed horse beneath him. When the army saw Goshtasp, the proudest son of Lohrasp, they came before him on foot, faces full of grief and streaming with tears. They all bowed before him, glad that the long ordeals had been cut short. The moment Zarir came before him, he dismounted, weary of war. He held his dear brother tightly to his chest, and when he opened his lips he began to ask after him. They sat upon the throne with the chieftains, the nobles of Iran and its warriors. Blessed Zarir said to Goshtasp: may you be paired with good fortune every year of your life. Our father has grown old, and you are young at heart; why cut yourself off from seeing your elders? In old age fortune has smiled on him; he has become a pure worshipper of God. He has sent you the crown and the treasure, so it is fitting that you no longer hold your heart in sorrow. He said this: all of Iran is yours, the highest throne with the crown of the realm is yours. One quiet corner of the world is enough for us; anyone but me may sit on the throne of kingship. His brother brought the precious crown, along with the armlet, the collar, and the ivory throne. When Goshtasp saw his father's throne, he sat on it joyfully and placed the crown upon his head. The grandson of the world-seeking Kavus, and among the Godarzians whoever was of good stock, such as Bahram and Saveh and Rivniz, and everyone else who stood proud, they praised him as king and called him the lord of the land. They stood ready with belts girded, every one who had been a fighter. When Goshtasp saw that his heart's desire was won, he sent a message to the Caesar. It said: all that you wished from Iran has been granted; things have gone beyond all measure. Zarir and the army are watching, hoping you will come gracefully to this battlefield. They will all, one and all, make a pact with you and pledge their souls to your love. If it is no trouble, come out to the plain, for the turning world has bent to your will. When the messenger reached the Caesar, he came to the plain and saw the array of the army. When he saw Goshtasp on the ivory throne, a turquoise crown set upon his head, he came and held him tightly to his chest and began to speak of old times. The Caesar realized this was Goshtasp, the one who brightened Lohrasp's soul. He praised him greatly and bowed before him, and from there they went back to the throne. He apologized for what he had done and grieved over that strange time. The king accepted his words and then embraced his head. He told him: when the air turns dark, it is right to light the candle. Send to us the one we chose, for he has borne much pain and hardship. The Caesar went off carrying grief and shame, reproaching himself for his bad temper. He sent treasure to Katayun: a crown and five red rubies, a thousand Roman slaves and servants, and a collar studded with royal jewels. Five camel-loads of Roman gold coins, and a philosopher to guard the treasure. He gave weapons and money to his army and to the famed men of his realm. Everyone who came from a great line, or was a mighty, renowned swordsman, he adorned with fitting robes of honor and revived their withered fortunes. With Arab horses and horse-armor, with mail coats and Indian garments, with brocade and gold coins, crowns and gemstones, thrones and all kinds of Chinese silk, the envoy carried these to Goshtasp and counted them out one by one to his treasurer. Along with all this he spread abundant praise upon the One who created time and earth. When Katayun came before the king, the roar of the war drums rose from the court. The army set out toward Iran, and the sky began to hide behind the dust of the horses. When the Caesar had come two stages along the road, the king turned the reins of his swift steed. With an oath he sent him back from that border, and at his request let him return toward the West. From there he went back toward the West, while Goshtasp set out on the long road. He rode on until he reached Iran, until he reached the brave men and the lions of war. When Lohrasp heard that Zarir had come, and his brother Goshtasp, that fierce lion, he went out to welcome him with all the chieftains, the nobles of Iran and its heroes. When he saw his son he held him to his chest, and struck his own head at the cruelty of fate. Goshtasp quickly dismounted from his horse, blessed him, and wept before him. When they went from the road into the royal palace, they were like the sun entering the house of the moon. Lohrasp told him: do not blame me; such was the will of the world's Creator. It was written thus upon your fate: that your kingdom would be left empty without you. King Lohrasp grew joyful at him and seated him upon the throne and the seat of power. He kissed him and placed the crown upon his head, offering blessings along with the crown. Goshtasp said to him: O king, may no one see a single day without you. As long as you are the elder, I am your servant; I will strive not to tread on your path. May your ending be all good, and may we never be without your name. For the world stays with no one forever; when it does linger, it lingers as bodily pain. So is this fleeting world; as much as you can, do not sow the seed of evil in it. I ask only of the one just God that I remain in this world long enough to join this book of the kings before me with fine words of my own. After that, the body of the living belongs to the dust, and the eloquent soul belongs to the pure mine of the spirit.