From Kerman, a distinguished envoy rode swiftly toward Esfahan, where the noble grandees of Iran and the veiled royal women of Dara’s court had sought refuge. Bringing the greetings of Sekandar, the messenger recounted the tragic end of King Dara, declaring that neither friend nor foe could rejoice at such a death. Yet he offered comfort, proclaiming that Sekandar now stood in Dara’s stead to preserve the splendor and unity of Iran. He invited the royal women and Iranian lords to bring their banners and royal belongings to the ancient city of Istakhr, reassuring them that Iran remained untouched in its glory.
Thereupon, Sekandar dispatched a grand royal charter of justice to every province, governor, and wise Mobad across the empire. The letter commenced with sublime praise for the Almighty Creator—He who brought the twin realms into being through the cosmic decree of Creation, governing the revolving heavens by His absolute will. Sekandar swore by the sun that he had sought no harm against Dara, whose betrayal lay at the hands of treacherous servants who had now suffered divine retribution. He called upon all lords to bind their tongues to oaths of righteousness, promising boundless treasure, crowns, and security to those who honored their pledges. He commanded the maintenance of guarded borders and secure marketplaces, the shelter and honor of chaste maidens for the imperial court, and the immediate relief of the destitute, ascetics, and wandering dervishes. Corrupt officials who oppressed the vulnerable were warned of ultimate ruin.
Once these royal decrees were broadcast across the vast empire, a serene peace settled over the land. Sekandar marched from Kerman to the ancient throne-city of Istakhr, where he placed the magnificent Kianian crown of majesty upon his head, acknowledging the elusive and mysterious nature of Fate.