Mahmood

When Zal heard the sublime words of King Kay Khosrow, astonishment gripped his soul and tears dimmed his eyes. Realizing that the monarch's vow was guided by Divine Providence rather than mere impulse, the ancient, white-haired hero arose with a trembling cry. Bowing before the righteous king, Zal confessed his own rashness and folly, acknowledging that he had been momentarily led astray by evil whisperings. He recalled his centuries of loyal service under countless sovereigns, proclaiming that never had he witnessed a king blessed with such radiant divine wisdom—one who sought counsel directly from the Creator of the sun and moon. Seeing the transparent sincerity of the loyal paladin, Kay Khosrow stretched forth his hand, drew Zal upward, and seated him warmly at his side, knowing his former harshness stemmed solely from devotion to the realm. The King then commanded that all heroes gird their loins for the coming conflict. He ordered Rostam, Tus, Goudarz, Gev, and every renowned champion to move the royal pavilions and the blessed Kavian Banner beyond the city walls onto the vast plains. Rostam promptly executed the royal decree; the Iranian army poured into the wilderness, erecting countless tents of white, black, purple, and azure until the valley from mountain to mountain was entirely transformed into an encampment. In the very heart of the plain, the magnificent Kavian Banner shone resplendently in shades of crimson, gold, and violet. Zal’s pavilion, flying his dark standard, was pitched beside the royal throne, with Rostam and the noble lords of Kabul stationed to the left. Before them stood the great commanders Tus, Goudarz, and Gev, alongside fierce warriors like Rohham, Shapour, and Gurgin. Behind them gathered Bijan, Gustahm, and the full assemblage of Iran's heroic chivalry, bound together in purpose and ready for war.