After securing the realm against all foes, King Keyqobad marched into the heartland of Pars, where lay the key to the empire's ancient treasures. He established his royal seat at Istakhr, the proud citadel of the Kianian dynasty, and ascended the sublime throne. From every corner of the world, rulers and subjects turned their eyes toward him, beholding a sovereign of blessed counsel who governed with absolute justice.
Gathering the paramount nobles and lords of Iran, Keyqobad proclaimed his royal manifest: 'The world from border to border is entrusted to my charge. Yet if an elephant harbors malice against a gnat, the divine edifice of law and righteousness is breached. I desire nothing in this cosmos save truth and rectitude, for the wrath of God brings ruin upon the land. The comfort of my subjects flows from my own toil; wherever water springs and soil endures, there lies my treasure. Soldier and citizen are one in my eyes—all the realm is my army. Let all abide beneath the shelter of the Almighty, living wisely and free from cruelty. Whoever possesses bread, let him eat and bestow upon the needy; and whosoever is destitute and lacking sustenance, my royal court shall be his pasture and sanctuary.'
Honoring the deeds of the glorious monarchs of old, Keyqobad ruled with bountiful equity for a hundred joyful years. Four wise sons were born to him, leaving an enduring legacy upon the earth: the eldest, praised Kavus, followed by Kay Arash, Kay Pashin, and the fourth prince, Kay Arash. Together they maintained the serenity of the realm. But when a century had elapsed upon the throne, the bright star of Keyqobad's fortune began to wane, and the king recognized that his green leaves were destined to wither.
At the turn of the month, Keyqobad summoned his eldest son, Kay Kavus, to impart his final royal testament. 'We have packed our burdens for the great journey,' said the dying king. 'Prepare my coffin and step upon the throne. It feels to me as though I have only just descended in triumph from Mount Alborz! Worship not this fleeting world, for whoever surrenders to its illusions lacks true wisdom. If thou art just and pure of faith, thou shalt harvest nothing but blessings; but if greed entangles thy soul, thou wilt draw a sharp sword of ruin against thine own head.' With these words, the great king departed the vast expanse of the mortal earth, choosing the narrow wooden chest over the grand palace. Thus ended the era of Keyqobad, clearing the path for the saga of Kay Kavus.