When darkness blanketed the vast plain and the bright world dissolved into night, scouts and outriders dispersed across the field to guard the camp. At the vanguard of the Iranian host stood Qaran the battle-seasoned champion alongside the wise King Sarv of Yemen. Suddenly, a resounding call echoed through the ranks: 'O illustrious chieftains and brave men of the King! Strive with all your might, for this is a holy war against the forces of Ahriman—a battle to avenge blood and purge evil. Gird your waists, remain vigilant, and trust in the shadow of the Almighty Creator!'
The herald proclaimed that whoever fell upon this sacred battlefield would enter Paradise cleansed of all sin, while those who repelled the invading hosts of China and Rome and liberated their native soil would gain eternal glory, blessed with the sacred splendor of the priests. From King Fereydun they would receive crowns and thrones, from their commander gold and treasures, and from God supreme fortune. The army was commanded that as soon as the pure light of dawn illuminated the heavens, every warrior should strap on his Kabuli dagger, grasp his heavy mace, stand firm in rank, and not step out of line until the command was given.
Moved by these stirrings, the battle-captains and noble lords assembled before their lion-hearted commander. With unified hearts, they declared: 'We are but devoted servants of the King, living only to execute his divine will. When he gives the word, we shall turn the battlefield into a raging River Jayhun of enemy blood!' With their solemn covenant forged, the heroes returned to their tents, their hearts burning with vengeance for Iraj, eager for the dawn of battle.