When King Mehrab of Kabul received word of the approach of the World-Champion Sam and Zal the White-Haired, he ordered the war drums to sound and arrayed his army in radiant, multicolored splendor resembling the dazzling plumage of a rooster. Mighty war-elephants and master musicians transformed the realm of Kabul into a earthly paradise from edge to edge. Silk banners of crimson, ivory, gold, and violet fluttered above as the melodies of flutes and harps intermingled with the fanfare of trumpets and bells—a spectacle so glorious it felt like a joyful resurrection.
Mehrab rode forth until he met Sam, dismounting his steed to step forward in homage. The World-Champion embraced him warmly, inquiring after his well-being and the turns of fate. The King of Kabulistan showered boundless praise upon Sam and Zal. Mounting his swift steed once more, like the new moon ascending over a mountain peak, Mehrab placed a jewel-encrusted golden crown upon Zal's head. Smiling and joyful, they entered Kabul, reminiscing over old memories. The entire city resounded with Indian bells and the sweet strains of harps and flutes, as if even the wild beasts had turned into minstrels under Time's wondrous transformation. The manes and tails of the horses were richly scented with saffron and musk.
Sindokht stepped out accompanied by three hundred gracefully attired maidens, each holding a golden goblet filled with musk and precious gems. Singing praises to Sam, they showered the jewels at his feet, enriching every soul present. Sam turned to Sindokht with a smile and asked, 'How long do you intend to keep Kabul's radiant sun, Rudabeh, hidden from us?' Sindokht cleverly replied, 'Where is the royal gift if you desire to behold the sun?' Sam declared, 'Ask of me whatever your heart desires!'
They proceeded to the gold-embellished palace where Rudabeh resided like eternal spring. As Sam gazed upon the moon-faced princess, he was struck with quiet awe, realizing no words could fully capture her matchless beauty. At Sam's command, Mehrab stepped forward, and the marriage rites were solemnized in accordance with ancient law and noble faith. Zal and Rudabeh were seated side by side upon a single royal throne as showers of carnelian and chrysolite rained upon them—the bride crowned with a glorious tiara and the prince with a jewel-studded crown. The inventories of royal treasures were read aloud, detailing riches beyond imagination. For one week they banqueted within the royal halls, followed by three weeks of jubilation in the lush gardens.
As the month concluded, Sam Nariman prepared to return to Sistan. Zal, Rudabeh, Sindokht, and Mehrab joined the procession with their armies, elephants, and drums. Exquisite litters, covered howdahs, and royal sedans were fashioned for Rudabeh so the moon-faced bride could travel in supreme comfort. They arrived victoriously in Nimruz with joyful hearts and lips full of praise. Sam hosted another three-day feast, after which Mehrab returned to Kabul while Sindokht remained a while longer. Sam formally conferred the crown and royal rule of Sistan upon Zal. Carrying out the royal decree of King Manuchehr, Sam marched his army toward Gurgasaran, Bakhtar, and the turbulent borders of Mazandaran to subdue evil-natured rebels, leaving Zal firmly established upon the throne of power.