After their resounding victories over the Turanian host and the formidable Puladvand, Rustam the Elephant-Bodied Champion and the grand paladins of Iran laden their caravans with vast spoils of steeds and camels, turning their path back toward the sacred soil of Iran. The roar of war-horns and brass drums mingled with the chimes of caravan bells, proclaiming across the marches that the supreme Defender of the Realm was returning triumphant.
When tidings of Rustam's approach reached King Kay Khosrow, an intoxicating wave of joy swept through the capital and royal court. Kay Khosrow ordered the mighty war-elephants decked in rich trappings; silver coins, saffron, musk, and ambergris were showered upon the pathways, while harps and minstrels transformed the land into an earthly paradise. Kay Khosrow himself dismounted his golden throne to march forth in royal state and greet his invincible paladin.
Upon beholding the radiant crown of Kay Khosrow from afar, Rustam alighted from Rakhsh and pressed his forehead to the earth. The King embraced him tightly, bestowing endless blessings upon the wise hero and holding Rustam's hand in his own as they returned toward the palace alongside Tus, Fariburz, Goudarz, Giv, Rohham, and Gurgin.
At the glorious banquet of wine and song, the venerable Goudarz recounted to the King the epic duel between Rustam and Puladvand: how Rustam wrestled the demonic giant, lifted him effortlessly, and shattered him against the ground. Hearing of such peerless valor, Kay Khosrow's heart soared with gratitude to the Almighty, invoking divine protection upon the hero's life.
For a full month, the imperial court echoed with heroic songs and celebratory revelry. Thereupon, Rustam sought royal leave, expressing his deep yearning to behold his father, Zal the White-Haired, in Zabulistan. Kay Khosrow showered upon him unmatched treasures—rubies, crowns, Shushtari robes, golden vessels of musk, exquisite attendants, and golden shoes—and personally escorted Rustam for two stages of his journey. With heartfelt farewells, Rustam departed for Zabulistan, leaving the world tranquil and prosperous beneath the righteous sway of Kay Khosrow.