Deep into the trackless wilderness, King Khosrow Parviz spurred his mount forward through a parched realm destitute of both water and vegetation, guided by naught but desperation. Giving his steed free rein, he pressed on reluctantly until he reached the gates of Bahle. The nobles of that city, possessed of inherent virtue, emerged to welcome him and granted shelter to his weary forces. Yet no sooner had they settled than a swift courier arrived in breathless haste from Iran, concealing a secret letter within his garments. Written by the usurper Bahram Chubin to the governor of Bahle, the missive commanded the lord not to let Khosrow's forces slip away, warning that Bahram's army was pursuing close behind.
Upon inspecting the letter delivered by the governor, Khosrow was filled with astonishment and dread. Realizing the grave peril, the King bound his girdle tightly for swift flight and galloped toward the banks of the Euphrates. Reaching the river, they initially found no life, but soon chanced upon a verdant grove watered by running streams. Starved and exhausted, the warriors strung their bows to hunt, yet no wild beasts were to be found in the thicket.
At that desperate juncture, a caravan appeared led by an Arab camel-driver named Qays ibn al-Harith. Recognizing the royal majesty of Khosrow, Qays offered rich blessings. Learning of the king's plight and the ravenous hunger of his men, the noble Arab declared his life and possessions at their service. He slaughtered a fat beast, and amidst roaring fires fed with dry and green wood, the famished men devoured roasted meat. Rested and nourished, they offered praise to the Almighty, while Khosrow proclaimed to his followers that any who had erred in the past would find royal favor and amnesty if they turned toward righteousness.
When Khosrow inquired about the road ahead, Qays warned that over seventy leagues of formidable mountains and arid deserts remained, offering his own swift camels to carry water and provisions to guide the host. As they journeyed further, another caravan drew near, led by a wealthy scribe and merchant named Mehran-Setad from Khurreh-i Ardashir. Mehran generously showered the royal party with abundant food and drink. To preserve the monarch's dignity, the courtier Khorrad Borzin stepped forward to take the warm washing vessel and the cup of rose-scented wine from the merchant's hands to serve his sovereign.
Delighted by Mehran’s selfless hospitality, Khosrow inquired of his home and origin, commanding his scribe Rozbeh to record the merchant’s name and village so he might be magnificently rewarded when fortune returned. With heartfelt blessings of wisdom and peace, Khosrow bade farewell to Mehran and pressed onward along his fateful path.