Darab, long sensing that his true bloodline differed from the humble washerman and his wife, at last gave voice to his inner doubt. He declared to the washerman that no filial affection stirred within his heart, nor did his features bear any resemblance to the man who claimed him. The washerman lamented the years of toil he had bestowed upon him, advising the youth to seek the truth from his mother.
One day, when the washerman had gone to the riverbank, Darab barred the doors, drew his blade, and demanded the truth from the washerman's wife. Fearing for her life and invoking the Almighty, she unraveled the mystery: she recounted the floating chest upon the waters, the nursing babe, the vast treasure of gold dinars, and the uncut royal jewel. She confessed that they were merely simple artisans, and that all their worldly possessions—their garments and mounts—belonged solely to him.
Equipped with his portion of gold and the shimmering gem, Darab purchased a fine horse, a modest saddle, and a lariat. He traveled to the domain of a wise and noble border warden (Marzban) who welcomed him with honor. Yet peaceful days were cut short when a hostile host from Rome invaded the borderlands. In the ensuing clash, the brave Marzban was slain, leaving his forces in disarray.
When news of the Roman aggression reached Queen Humay, she appointed her formidable commander-in-chief, Rashnawad, to assemble a vast army and ravage the invaders' lands. Eager for glory, Darab hastened to the muster ground and inscribed his name in the military rolls. On the day of the imperial review, Queen Humay arrived with her grandees to inspect the troops. As the ranks filed past, her gaze fell upon Darab—a majestic youth wielding a steel mace, whose towering presence seemed to dwarf the surrounding plain. Upon beholding his glorious countenance and noble stature, the secret bond of nature awakened, and milk miraculously began to flow from the Queen's breasts. Spellbound, Humay questioned her general about this valiant, towering rider whose sublime carriage far surpassed his humble armor.