When the years of King Manuchehr’s reign reached one hundred and twenty, the astrologers of the court read the silent script of the heavens and drew near to the imperial throne. They imparted to the monarch that the sun of his earthly sovereign realm was setting, and the hour had arrived for him to pack his baggage from this transient world. Hearing their word, Manuchehr accepted his fate with serene wisdom, summoning his mobads, chieftains, and noble advisors to lay bare the deep secrets of his heart.
He bade his son Nowzar step forward, bequeathing to him the battle-tested crown and throne of Iran. Manuchehr reminded him that the royal throne is but a fleeting spell and empty wind, upon which no wise man binds his heart forever. He recounted his own epic life—how, girded by the divine glory of Fereydun, he had avenged his great-ancestor Iraj by slaying Salm and Tur, cleansed the earth of monstrous horrors, and erected prosperous cities and formidable fortresses. Yet now, facing the ultimate end, it felt as though he had never witnessed the world at all, pondering that a life ending in death is like a tree bearing poisonous fruit.
With solemn authority, the dying king charged Nowzar to cling steadfastly to the faith of Yazdan and tread the paths of justice. He unveiled visions of the future, prophesying that a new divine covenant would dawn with the prophet Moses in the Western lands, warning Nowzar never to oppose him in enmity. He then foretold dark clouds gathering over Iran—a colossal invasion from Turan led by the formidable son of Pashang (Afrasiab). Manuchehr warned Nowzar of the treacherous trials ahead, commanding him to seek refuge and warrior-might in Sam, Zal, and the newly sprouted sapling of Zal’s lineage—the hero Rostam—who alone would humble the Turanian host.
As these final counsels passed his lips, tears welled in the old king's eyes, and Nowzar wept bitterly beside him. Then, without suffering any disease or agonizing pain, Manuchehr gently closed his royal eyes, withered like a autumn blossom, and exhaled his final cold breath. Thus passed the renowned and virtuous sovereign of Iran, leaving behind only the timeless echo of his deeds and wisdom across the ages.