When the Caesar of Rum learned of Katayoun's choice, he acquiesced with bitter fury, decreeing that his beloved daughter must depart alongside the unknown stranger without a single jewel, coin, or royal mantle. Goshtasp, marveling at the turns of fate, offered solemn praise to Yazdan. Turning to Katayoun, he questioned why she had forsaken noble suitors of high lineage for a penniless wanderer who could offer her nothing but hardship. Katayoun, resolute in her devotion, bade him not to rage against the heavens, affirming that if her heart was content with his destiny, thrones and crowns held no value for her.
Exiled from the imperial palace, they were welcomed by a noble village chief who bestowed upon them a comfortable dwelling and bountiful sustenance. Deeply moved, Goshtasp praised the pious headman. To sustain their household, Katayoun produced a magnificent, peerless ruby from her remaining jewels. A master gem-appraiser marveled at its splendor and purchased it for six thousand golden dinars, providing them with the means to meet their needs. Goshtasp turned to the wild wilderness, spending his days hunting with bow and quiver. On his return one afternoon, his path crossed the dwelling of Hishoy, a local man who welcomed the hunter with unfeigned joy and warm hospitality. A profound bond formed between them, as close as flesh and skin; henceforth, Goshtasp shared two-thirds of his daily hunt with Hishoy and distributed the remainder among the local villagers, finding solace and brotherhood in his quiet exile.