With the dawn of the month of Farvardin, when the world awakened into the radiant bloom of early spring, the five loyal maidens of Rudabeh adorned themselves in fine Roman brocade and intertwined fresh roses into their fragrant tresses. Seeking a remedy for their mistress's longing heart, they made their way to the riverbank where the pavilions of Zal Zar were pitched. Under the guise of gathering spring blossoms, their faces bloomed like flower gardens beside the flowing waters.
From his elevated throne, Dastan of the White Hair observed the fair maidens. He inquired of his attendants who these flower-gatherers might be. A servant revealed that they were the attendants of the Moon of Kabulistan—Rudabeh, the radiant daughter of King Mehrab. A spark of wonder ignited within Zal's chest; requesting his bow, he walked toward the shore. As a waterfowl rose from the rush-bordered stream, the hero drew his string and loosed a swift arrow, bringing the bird down bleeding into the waters. Zal ordered his bold Turkish page to cross the river by boat and retrieve the fallen prey.
When the youth reached the opposite bank, the maidens gathered around him, eager to learn the identity of the elephant-bodied, lion-armed champion who possessed such deadly precision. The page proudly declared that the rider was none other than the King of Nimruz, Zal-e Dastan, the glorious son of Sam. At this, the maidens smiled knowingly and replied that while Zal might be an unequaled warrior, within Mehrab's palace dwelt a sun surpassing all moons—Rudabeh, tall as the teak tree, pale as polished ivory, with narcissus eyes, ebony ringlets, and lips of sweet ruby.
Returning to his master, the youth recounted every glowing word he had heard. As the descriptions of Rudabeh's celestial beauty echoed in Zal's ears, his heart grew young with sudden desire. Without delay, Zal commanded that gold, silver, precious jewels, and five rich robes of gold-woven silk be carried secretly to the maidens, bidding them linger in the garden until a private message could be delivered.
Presently, the supreme champion walked into the rose garden himself. In soft and persuasive tones, he asked the maidens to speak truthfully of the maiden's beauty, promising great favor for honesty. Reassured, the maidens painted a vivid portrait of Rudabeh's divine stature and musky tresses that hung like black lassos over ivory shoulders. They devised a cunning scheme, promising to return to the palace, enchant Rudabeh with praises of Zal's majesty, and arrange for him to scale the high walls of her palace at night so that the lion might rejoice in the lamb. Filled with joy and renewed purpose, Zal returned to his camp, his heart soaring toward his beloved.