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Kavus Rejects Zal's Counsel

Kavus Rejects Zal's Counsel

From B4.2, Zal Counsels Kay Kavus. It illustrates B4.2.29–40 (to B4.2.41):

  • B4.2.29
    The Shah replied, his pride now sharpened high:“Your counsel has its worth; I cannot deny.
  • B4.2.30
    In valor, strength, and wealth I far exceedBoth Jamshid and Fereydoon, all concede.
  • B4.2.31
    Manuchehr and Qobad I too excel;They never sought Mazandaran’s dark spell.
  • B4.2.32
    My army, heart, and treasure greater stand;The sharp sword holds the world beneath command.
  • B4.2.33
    The world lies open to the knowing eye;No hidden realm shall from my purpose fly.
  • B4.2.34
    I go to snare them one by one in fight,By kingly rule or by the sword’s own might.
  • B4.2.35
    I shall impose my tribute on their land,Or leave no living foe who dares withstand.
  • B4.2.36
    Their sorcerers and Divs I count as base;No terror in them do I see or trace.
  • B4.2.37
    The Divs shall vanish from the face of earth,Their cursed breed be stripped of name and worth.
  • B4.2.38
    You, Zal, with Rostam, guard Iran; beware;Let watchful strength be constant everywhere.
  • B4.2.39
    The World-Creator stands with me today;The heads of male Divs shall be my prey.
  • B4.2.40
    If you will not ride with me to the fight,Then do not counsel me to wait tonight.”

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