Long after the tragic murder of the pure-hearted Iraj, King Fereydun dwelled in bitter sorrow. Seeking comfort, he looked into the inner chambers of his lost son and discovered Mah-Afarid, a maiden of radiant beauty whom Iraj had loved deeply. By the decree of Fate, she carried Iraj's child. Upon realizing that a remnant of his son lived, Fereydun's heart flared with renewed hope that Iraj's blood might yet be avenged.
When her time came, Mah-Afarid gave birth to a daughter so strikingly wondrous that she seemed the very image of Iraj reborn. She was nurtured in splendor and royal luxury until she grew into a maiden of graceful beauty. Fereydun betrothed her to Pashang, and from their union was born a son destined for the throne and crown. The child was immediately brought before the ancient king. The mobad presented the infant, bidding Fereydun rejoice at the sight of Iraj's descendant.
As Fereydun embraced the infant, his laughter returned after years of grief. The king, whose eyes had grown dark and blind from weeping endlessly for Iraj, turned his face to the heavens and prayed. By Divine grace, the light returned to his eyes, and his sight was restored. Looking upon the boy's glowing visage, Fereydun proclaimed: 'From pure stock a noble branch has bloomed; his face shines like clear wine from a priceless goblet, and his name shall be Manuchehr.'
Fereydun raised the prince with unmatched devotion—his feet never touched bare earth, for pure musk was strewn before his path and silken banners shaded his head. Year after year, Fereydun personally instructed Manuchehr in every royal art, chivalrous skill, and military strategy. When the prince reached manhood, the army and nobles hailed him with united passion. Fereydun unlocked his ancient treasuries, bestowing upon Manuchehr his golden throne, heavy mace, turquoise crown, purebred Arabian steeds with golden bridles, Indian blades, Roman mail, Chachi bows, and Chinese shields.
Summoning the great warlords of the realm—including Qaran son of Kaveh, Shiruy, and Avagan—Fereydun placed Manuchehr upon the throne. The realm erupted in joyous celebration as jewels were showered upon the new king. Justice returned to the earth, distinguishing sheep from wolf, and the Iranian host assembled, eager to march under Manuchehr's banner and avenge the fallen Iraj.