When Prince Bahman, the valiant son of Esfandiyar, ascended the craggy heights overlooking the lush meadows of Zabulistan, his eyes fell upon a sight that filled his soul with wonder and dread. Down in the valley, Rostam, the World-Champion, sat like the morning sun made flesh. In his mighty grip he held an entire tree stripped of its boughs, upon which he had spitted a giant wild ass roasting over a roaring fire. In his other hand he held a golden goblet of ruby wine, while his noble steed Rakhsh grazed peacefully in the emerald fields.
Bahman's heart trembled at Rostam's titanic physique. He whispered to himself, 'Is this a mortal man, or the radiant sun descending upon the earth? No legend of old has ever spoken of a warrior of such formidable stature. I fear that even the invincible Esfandiyar will not withstand his colossal force in battle. It is better that I extinguish his life here and now with a single motionless stone.' With that, Bahman dislodged a massive granite boulder from the mountain crest and sent it thundering down toward Rostam's campsite.
The roar of the descending rock echoed through the crags. Zovarah, Rostam's watchful brother, caught sight of the rolling avalanche and cried out, 'O illustrious chieftain! A giant stone tumbles from the mountain straight toward you!' Yet Rostam did not flinch, nor did he set down his roast meat. He waited calmly until the mountain stone was upon him, enveloped in a cloud of dark dust. Then, with casual power, he extended his leg and kicked the heavy boulder away with his heel, sending it flying harmlessly into the distance.
Bahman's heart sank in dismay at this extraordinary display of sheer strength. Realizing that brute force would fail against such a titan, he descended the mountain to approach the hunting grounds peacefully. Rostam, observing the royal demeanor of the approaching youth, divined his Kianian blood and rode out with Zovarah to greet him. Bahman dismounted instantly, offering exalted greetings. Rostam embraced him warmly, apologizing for any delay in his welcome.
A magnificent feast was set before them. Rostam placed a whole roasted wild ass before himself, carving the meat, salting it, and eating with the boundless appetite of a legendary warrior. Before Bahman, he laid choice cuts of game. Yet Bahman, spellbound by Rostam's immense frame and appetite, barely nibbled at his food. Rostam laughed jovially and said, 'O Prince! If your appetite is so meager, how did you survive the deadly Seven Stages, and how do you wield a heavy lance in war?' Bahman replied with dignity, 'Those of royal blood speak concisely and do not overeat; in battle, our spirit and striving matter far more than food.' Rostam laughed approvingly and raised a golden goblet of wine to noble heroes. Together, they then mounted their steeds to ride toward the palace, where Bahman prepared to deliver Esfandiyar's solemn message.