
Rostam Shoots Ashkabus on Foot
From B13.28, Rostam Battles Ashkabus. It illustrates B13.28.33–44 (to B13.28.48):
- B13.28.33He saw Ashkabus glory in his steed,Then bent his bow to answer pride with deed.
- B13.28.34He shot an arrow at the charger’s breast;The horse fell headlong, stripped of pride and rest.
- B13.28.35Rostam laughed and cried, “Sit by your friend;Nurse his head awhile and let your combat end.
- B13.28.36Rest from the fight beside your noble steed;Attend your fallen comrade in his need.”
- B13.28.37Then Ashkabus, his quivering body strained,His face like sandarac, his bow he gained.
- B13.28.38He strung his bow and loosed a furious rain;But Rostam cried, “Your arrows fall in vain.
- B13.28.39You waste your spirit, arms, and body too;This useless toil brings no reward to you.”
- B13.28.40He reached toward his belt and chose with careA poplar shaft, straight-flying through the air.
- B13.28.41Four eagle feathers balanced it for flight;Its polished arrowhead flashed clear and bright.
- B13.28.42He took the bow of Chakh within his hand,And set his thumbstall to the deer-hide strand.
- B13.28.43His left arm straight, his right drew back with might;The bow of Chakh cried out, its string drawn tight.
- B13.28.44The nock drew backward till it reached his ear;The deer-hide string rang sharp and strong and clear.
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