Thus ran the wheel of destiny: King Bahman possessed a son who burned with the spirit of a lion, named Sasan, and a daughter named Homay, adorned with wisdom, virtue, and radiant grace, whom the world called Chehrzad. Her presence brought joy to all who beheld her. According to the ancient Pahlavi rites, the king took Homay into high honor, and in time, she carried the seed of the sovereign within her womb.
When six months of her pregnancy had elapsed, a severe affliction took hold of Bahman's frame. Sensing his mortality, the ruler summoned the empire's grandees, astrologers, and wise mobads, seating Homay upon the imperial throne in full view of the assembly. Bahman proclaimed his final decree: 'To Chehrzad I entrust this glorious crown, the high throne, the imperial host, and all the treasures of the realm. She shall be my regent and sovereign in this world, and after her, the child she carries within her. Whether that child be born a daughter or a son, the crown and throne of the realm belong to them.'
When Prince Sasan heard his father’s testament, his heart darkened with shame and indignation. Refusing to live beneath the shadow of this bequest, he fled Iran like a wounded leopard, riding for two days and two nights until he reached the distant borders of Nishapur. There, deep in exile, he wedded a noblewoman of that realm, concealing his kingly bloodline from all mortals. In time, a son was born to him, whom he also named Sasan. But soon thereafter, the elder Sasan passed into the shadows, leaving his young son to grow up in bitter poverty.
Upon reaching manhood, the younger Sasan, unaware of his imperial destiny, took charge of the royal herds belonging to the ruler of Nishapur. Across the mountains and desolate plains, he guided the sheep, living as a simple shepherd while royal Kianian blood flowed silently through his veins. Meanwhile, back in the imperial heartland, Queen Homay assumed the realm's sacred burden following the death of Bahman.