{"source": "/poem/", "retrieved": "2026-10-22", "anomalies": [["E11.32", ["The Shahnameh of Ferdowsi is ended."]]], "books": [{"id": "A0", "title": "The Prelude", "summary": "12 sections · 237 couplets", "path": "/poem/a0/", "couplets": [{"id": "A0.1.1", "lines": ["In the name of Lord of wisdom and mind,", "Beyond whom thought no higher way can find."]}, {"id": "A0.1.2", "lines": ["Lord of the name, of all things near and far,", "Source of our daily needs, our Guide, our farr."]}, {"id": "A0.1.3", "lines": ["Lord of high Saturn, the sphere that is spun,", "Who lights the moon and Venus and the sun."]}, {"id": "A0.1.4", "lines": ["Beyond all name and sign and guess is He,", "Who made the heart of all the things we see."]}, {"id": "A0.1.5", "lines": ["The Maker’s self no mortal eye can trace,", "So torment not your eyes in that vain chase."]}, {"id": "A0.1.6", "lines": ["Nor can our thought discover any trail;", "He stands past name and place, where all words fail."]}, {"id": "A0.1.7", "lines": ["Man’s soul and wisdom try with subtle speech;", "Past their core, all is far beyond their reach."]}, {"id": "A0.1.8", "lines": ["If wisdom choose its words and try to speak,", "It speaks but of the things its eyes can seek."]}, {"id": "A0.1.9", "lines": ["None knows to praise Him as He truly stands,", "So bind yourself to serve with heart and hands."]}, {"id": "A0.1.10", "lines": ["Our souls and wisdom on His scale are laid;", "How shall the weighed presume to weigh who weighed?"]}, {"id": "A0.1.11", "lines": ["These feeble three: our judgment, soul, and tongue.", "How shall the Maker’s praise by these be sung?"]}, {"id": "A0.1.12", "lines": ["Confess that He exists, and hold it fast,", "And let all idle speech from you be cast."]}, {"id": "A0.1.13", "lines": ["Be worshipper and seeker of the road,", "And deeply mark the law His will bestowed."]}, {"id": "A0.1.14", "lines": ["Whoever has knowledge, also has the power;", "By wisdom’s light old hearts renew their flower."]}, {"id": "A0.1.15", "lines": ["Speech cannot pass the veil it stands before;", "Thought only knows “He is”—and nothing more."]}, {"id": "A0.2.1", "lines": ["Speak, sage, of wisdom! Raise your noble voice,", "And make the hearts of those who hear rejoice!"]}, {"id": "A0.2.2", "lines": ["Bring forth whatever wisdom you may share,", "That listening ears may heed what you declare."]}, {"id": "A0.2.3", "lines": ["Wisdom is God’s best gift, our guiding light;", "It shows the path and leads our footsteps right."]}, {"id": "A0.2.4", "lines": ["In joy and grief, in loss and fleeting gain,", "By wisdom weighed are all their joy and pain."]}, {"id": "A0.2.5", "lines": ["But when its light is darkened or withdrawn,", "All joy departs and hope itself is gone,"]}, {"id": "A0.2.6", "lines": ["Thus speaks the virtuous man, the sage of lore,", "Whose words the thoughtful ponder evermore:"]}, {"id": "A0.2.7", "lines": ["“Who spurns the counsel wisdom would impart", "Shall, by that scorn, bring anguish to his heart;"]}, {"id": "A0.2.8", "lines": ["The prudent mark him lost beyond retrieve,", "And those who once were close will turn and leave.”"]}, {"id": "A0.2.9", "lines": ["Through wisdom, honor follows where you go;", "Without it, chains will bind you here below."]}, {"id": "A0.2.10", "lines": ["It is the eye of mind; if you are blind,", "You grope through darkness, leaving joy behind;"]}, {"id": "A0.2.11", "lines": ["Know wisdom as the first of God’s design;", "It guards the soul and keeps three gates in line."]}, {"id": "A0.2.12", "lines": ["The eye, the ear, the tongue are sentinels;", "Through these come good and ill, this truth compels."]}, {"id": "A0.2.13", "lines": ["What tongue can speak the worth of wisdom’s name?", "What ear can hold the breadth of wisdom’s claim?"]}, {"id": "A0.2.14", "lines": ["If I should speak, who listens to the end?", "Who comprehends what words like these intend?"]}, {"id": "A0.2.15", "lines": ["Yet you, O seeker after wisdom’s way,", "Speak what you know and cast all doubt away;"]}, {"id": "A0.2.16", "lines": ["Declare creation’s course as you have learned,", "And share the righteous wisdom you have earned."]}, {"id": "A0.2.17", "lines": ["You are yourself the World-Creator’s art;", "The seen and unseen lie before your heart."]}, {"id": "A0.2.18", "lines": ["Attend the words that ancient sages gave,", "And rise above the terror of the grave;"]}, {"id": "A0.2.19", "lines": ["Seek out the wise wherever they may dwell,", "And store each truth they have the grace to tell."]}, {"id": "A0.2.20", "lines": ["When you hear a wise man speak aloud,", "Be not as one who stumbles with the crowd;"]}, {"id": "A0.2.21", "lines": ["Whatever words of knowledge reach your ear,", "Know learning has no bounds within life’s sphere."]}, {"id": "A0.3.1", "lines": ["First learn what needful knowledge must bestow:", "The primal sum of elements below,"]}, {"id": "A0.3.2", "lines": ["Which He who fashioned all from nothing made,", "That through His work His power be displayed."]}, {"id": "A0.3.3", "lines": ["At first, the elements were four and plain;", "They rose to being, free of toil and strain."]}, {"id": "A0.3.4", "lines": ["Fire shone above, and in the middle lay", "Wind joined with water in an ordered way,"]}, {"id": "A0.3.5", "lines": ["While dusky earth beneath them held its ground,", "The lowest base to which the rest were bound."]}, {"id": "A0.3.6", "lines": ["Of these, the fire first showed its potent might,", "And from its heat came dryness into sight."]}, {"id": "A0.3.7", "lines": ["Where fire withdrew, the cold began to reign,", "And after cold came moisture in its train;"]}, {"id": "A0.3.8", "lines": ["When these four roots assumed their ordered place,", "They formed the transient dwelling of our race."]}, {"id": "A0.3.9", "lines": ["Then each with each was mingled and combined,", "And countless forms arose of every kind."]}, {"id": "A0.3.10", "lines": ["Then heaven’s turning vault revealed its face,", "Displaying wonders in its circling space;"]}, {"id": "A0.3.11", "lines": ["The Seven Planets ruled the Twelvefold Signs,", "Each set within its proper place and lines;"]}, {"id": "A0.3.12", "lines": ["Then portion, order, justice came to be;", "The Wise One gave each station its degree."]}, {"id": "A0.3.13", "lines": ["The spheres, fast bound to spheres in ordered chain,", "Once formed, began to move through their domain."]}, {"id": "A0.3.14", "lines": ["And earth took form with mountain, vale, and deep,", "And, like a lamp, shone bright across its sweep."]}, {"id": "A0.3.15", "lines": ["The mountains grew, the waters flowed and spread,", "And plants rose upward from their earthy bed."]}, {"id": "A0.3.16", "lines": ["Yet earth had no high place, no rising ground;", "A dark and blackened center there was found."]}, {"id": "A0.3.17", "lines": ["But overhead the stars their splendor showed,", "And on the world a growing brightness flowed;"]}, {"id": "A0.3.18", "lines": ["Then fire rose upward, water sought its place,", "And round the earth the sun began its race."]}, {"id": "A0.3.19", "lines": ["The plants and trees in varied kinds arose,", "Each root and branch spread outward as fate sows."]}, {"id": "A0.3.20", "lines": ["No sense had they, nor faculty of mind,", "But growth alone was written in their kind."]}, {"id": "A0.3.21", "lines": ["Then beasts appeared, endowed with power to roam,", "Above the plants they made the world their home."]}, {"id": "A0.3.22", "lines": ["They sought their food, their sleep, their rest each day,", "And took from life what pleasure in it lay."]}, {"id": "A0.3.23", "lines": ["No tongue for speech, no searching mind they knew;", "From earth and herbage all their nurture grew."]}, {"id": "A0.3.24", "lines": ["They knew no good or evil from the deed;", "Nor did the Maker ask their worship’s need."]}, {"id": "A0.3.25", "lines": ["The Wise One, mighty, just, revealed His art;", "Its seen and hidden lie beyond our heart."]}, {"id": "A0.4.1", "lines": ["A further step, and man came forth, the last,", "For whom the whole creation had been cast."]}, {"id": "A0.4.2", "lines": ["All things were formed, a lock without a key,", "Till man arose, and man that key would be."]}, {"id": "A0.4.3", "lines": ["With head held high, like cypress straight and tall,", "Endowed with speech and reason over all,"]}, {"id": "A0.4.4", "lines": ["With knowledge, wisdom, judgment at his hand,", "He ruled the creatures placed in his command."]}, {"id": "A0.4.5", "lines": ["Now look with wisdom: what does “human” mean?", "Seek more than merely what the name may seem."]}, {"id": "A0.4.6", "lines": ["Call none a man by outward name alone;", "Seek signs by which his inward worth is known."]}, {"id": "A0.4.7", "lines": ["From two great worlds your nature has been raised,", "Through many stages formed, sustained, and phased."]}, {"id": "A0.4.8", "lines": ["Though made the last, you stand the first in worth;", "Then hold not cheap your own high place on earth."]}, {"id": "A0.4.9", "lines": ["For who can know what God has made His own?", "What secrets rest with Him, and Him alone?"]}, {"id": "A0.4.10", "lines": ["Look on your end, and see it as it stands;", "Find a good work, and take it in your hands."]}, {"id": "A0.4.11", "lines": ["Rightly you give your body toil each day;", "For toil in search of knowledge brings its pay."]}, {"id": "A0.4.12", "lines": ["If you would flee misfortune’s binding snare,", "Then guard your steps with vigilance and care."]}, {"id": "A0.4.13", "lines": ["In both worlds seek release from evil’s blight;", "Do good before the Maker, just and right."]}, {"id": "A0.4.14", "lines": ["Then gaze upon the swiftly turning sphere;", "From it come both the remedy and fear."]}, {"id": "A0.4.15", "lines": ["No turn of time can wear that circle thin,", "No toil nor care can work its hurt therein."]}, {"id": "A0.4.16", "lines": ["It does not rest, nor does its course decay,", "Nor fade like us who die and pass away."]}, {"id": "A0.4.17", "lines": ["From it come increase, measure, and degree;", "And good and ill unfold by its decree."]}, {"id": "A0.5.1", "lines": ["This azure dome is ruby, pure and bright,", "No wind, no water, dust, nor smoke unite."]}, {"id": "A0.5.2", "lines": ["With ordered lamps and torches burning clear,", "Like gardens dressed when bright Nowruz draws near."]}, {"id": "A0.5.3", "lines": ["Within it moves the heart-enkindling stone,", "From which the day has all its brightness known."]}, {"id": "A0.5.4", "lines": ["Each dawn it lifts a golden shield on high,", "And from the East it lifts its shining eye."]}, {"id": "A0.5.5", "lines": ["It robes the earth in garments made of light,", "And turns the darkened world to splendor bright."]}, {"id": "A0.5.6", "lines": ["When westward now the sun begins its flight,", "From out the East now comes the dark of night."]}, {"id": "A0.5.7", "lines": ["Yet neither ever gains or falls behind;", "No course is straighter than the roads assigned."]}, {"id": "A0.5.8", "lines": ["O Sun, what change has turned your light away?", "Why does your glory leave me dark today?"]}, {"id": "A0.6.1", "lines": ["The moon gives light through every darkened night;", "So turn from evil while you have the light."]}, {"id": "A0.6.2", "lines": ["For two full days and nights its face is gone,", "Worn by the turning course that bears it on."]}, {"id": "A0.6.3", "lines": ["Then thin and yellow, curved, it comes in view,", "Like one whom grief for love has bent in two."]}, {"id": "A0.6.4", "lines": ["If from afar you glimpse it in the sky,", "It fades at once, evades the seeking eye."]}, {"id": "A0.6.5", "lines": ["But on the next night more of it appears,", "And gives a fuller light to one who peers."]}, {"id": "A0.6.6", "lines": ["Through fourteen days it rounds to full and sound,", "Then turns back to the first shape it had found."]}, {"id": "A0.6.7", "lines": ["It lessens as the nights succeed their run,", "And draws each night still nearer to the sun."]}, {"id": "A0.6.8", "lines": ["Thus did the Just Lord set it in its way;", "So it has been, and shall be, and shall stay."]}, {"id": "A0.7.1", "lines": ["Faith joined with knowledge, each a steadfast guide,", "Seek out salvation’s gate and there abide."]}, {"id": "A0.7.2", "lines": ["If you would keep your heart from grief and fear,", "And spare your soul from sorrow year by year,"]}, {"id": "A0.7.3", "lines": ["Then seek your road in what the Prophet taught,", "And wash your heart’s dark stains in what he brought."]}, {"id": "A0.7.4", "lines": ["What said Yazdan who gave the sacred bidding,", "Yazdan of all command and all forbidding?"]}, {"id": "A0.7.5", "lines": ["That after all the Prophets, none we find", "More blest than Abu Bakr among mankind."]}, {"id": "A0.7.6", "lines": ["Umar gave Islam glory, spread it wide,", "And decked the world like spring in blooming pride."]}, {"id": "A0.7.7", "lines": ["Then Uthman came, the third by all revered,", "In modesty and faith alike endeared."]}, {"id": "A0.7.8", "lines": ["The fourth was Ali, Fatima’s dear lord,", "For goodness by the Prophet’s tongue adored."]}, {"id": "A0.7.9", "lines": ["“I am the city of all knowledge; know", "That Ali is its gate, through which men go.”"]}, {"id": "A0.7.10", "lines": ["I bear this witness: these were words he said;", "Those words still echo clearly in my head."]}, {"id": "A0.7.11", "lines": ["Thus he spoke of Ali, and of the rest;", "Through all of them the faith grew firm and blessed."]}, {"id": "A0.7.12", "lines": ["The Prophet is the sun, their source of light;", "Like moons, his friends pursue the path of right."]}, {"id": "A0.7.13", "lines": ["I am the Prophet’s household’s servant sworn,", "And praise the dust the Wasi’s feet have worn."]}, {"id": "A0.7.14", "lines": ["With others I have neither claim nor care;", "No other creed or path will I declare."]}, {"id": "A0.7.15", "lines": ["The wise have called this world a restless deep,", "Whose waves the unseen winds forever sweep."]}, {"id": "A0.7.16", "lines": ["On it sail seventy great ships in all,", "Their masts upreared, their sails hung broad and tall."]}, {"id": "A0.7.17", "lines": ["One broad ship, like a bride adorned, went by,", "Bright-figured as the rooster’s shining eye."]}, {"id": "A0.7.18", "lines": ["Mohammad is within it, Ali too,", "His Wasi and the Prophet’s household true."]}, {"id": "A0.7.19", "lines": ["The sage who watched that sea could see no shore,", "No bottom to it, and no ocean floor."]}, {"id": "A0.7.20", "lines": ["He knew the waves would strike; he knew that none", "Would come out from that drowning, no, not one."]}, {"id": "A0.7.21", "lines": ["He said in heart: “If drowning be my lot,", "Prophet and Wasi leave me friendless not."]}, {"id": "A0.7.22", "lines": ["Surely my hand shall find a helper known:", "Yazdan of crown, of banner, and of throne."]}, {"id": "A0.7.23", "lines": ["His is the honey-brook, the wine’s own stream,", "The spring of milk, the water’s limpid gleam.”"]}, {"id": "A0.7.24", "lines": ["If on the other dwelling you would gaze,", "Keep near the Prophet and Ali always."]}, {"id": "A0.7.25", "lines": ["If this displeases you, the fault is mine;", "Such is my faith, the path I hold divine."]}, {"id": "A0.7.26", "lines": ["In this faith born, in this faith let me die;", "Dust beneath Haidar’s foot; that dust am I."]}, {"id": "A0.7.27", "lines": ["Your heart, if it strays, is your fiercest foe,", "No enemy can bring your soul as low."]}, {"id": "A0.7.28", "lines": ["The foe of Ali is of birth defiled,", "Whose body Yazdan’s fire shall burn, exiled."]}, {"id": "A0.7.29", "lines": ["Who keeps in soul a hatred of Ali,", "Who is more wretched in the world than he?"]}, {"id": "A0.7.30", "lines": ["So take this world in earnest, not in jest,", "Walk with the just, and follow what is best."]}, {"id": "A0.7.31", "lines": ["Let righteousness be yours in all you do,", "If you would stand among the honored few."]}, {"id": "A0.7.32", "lines": ["Why should I linger, speaking without end?", "This theme outruns all words that I could spend."]}, {"id": "A0.8.1", "lines": ["The tale is told; no telling thing is new;", "Of all once said, I take one up with you."]}, {"id": "A0.8.2", "lines": ["All have passed on through wisdom’s ancient field,", "And what I now speak, sages have revealed."]}, {"id": "A0.8.3", "lines": ["Yet though I gain no place upon that tree,", "Nor strive to climb its heights for all to see,"]}, {"id": "A0.8.4", "lines": ["Still one who rests beneath its spreading shade", "Will find much peace within the shelter made."]}, {"id": "A0.8.5", "lines": ["Perhaps I too may find a place to rise,", "Beneath that shade-cypress that seeks the skies."]}, {"id": "A0.8.6", "lines": ["By leaving here this record of the kings,", "I set my name among these offerings."]}, {"id": "A0.8.7", "lines": ["Do not suppose these tales are empty lies,", "For truth may hide beneath a fabled guise."]}, {"id": "A0.8.8", "lines": ["Accept what reason finds both sound and true;", "And through its symbols seek the deeper view."]}, {"id": "A0.8.9", "lines": ["In bygone days there lived, and spread, and grew,", "An epic cycle that the ancients knew."]}, {"id": "A0.8.10", "lines": ["Scattered it lay in every Mobad’s hand,", "Each sage preserved a portion through the land."]}, {"id": "A0.8.11", "lines": ["At last a Pahlevan of dehqan line,", "Brave, wise, and generous in his grand design,"]}, {"id": "A0.8.12", "lines": ["A seeker skilled in tracing ancient lore,", "Who searched the past and all its hidden store,"]}, {"id": "A0.8.13", "lines": ["Resolved to learn what truth might yet remain,", "And summoned aged Mobadan from each plain."]}, {"id": "A0.8.14", "lines": ["He asked what annals told of crown and throne,", "Of heroes famed whose deeds were widely known,"]}, {"id": "A0.8.15", "lines": ["How once they held the world in ages past,", "And left it so diminished at the last."]}, {"id": "A0.8.16", "lines": ["How fortune favored them in days of might,", "And how those days of valor passed from sight."]}, {"id": "A0.8.17", "lines": ["The sages spoke of all the vanished years,", "Of kings and worlds, their triumphs and their tears;"]}, {"id": "A0.8.18", "lines": ["He bent his ear to every learned tongue,", "And from their words this present work was sprung."]}, {"id": "A0.8.19", "lines": ["That work endures, a monument in time,", "Praised by the humble and the most Sublime."]}, {"id": "A0.9.1", "lines": ["When from the book these ancient tales were read,", "Their fame through gathered circles widely spread."]}, {"id": "A0.9.2", "lines": ["The world had set its heart upon this theme,", "The wise and truthful held it in esteem."]}, {"id": "A0.9.3", "lines": ["A gifted youth arose with ardent mind,", "In verse and eloquence of taste refined."]}, {"id": "A0.9.4", "lines": ["“I will retell these tales in rhyming line,”", "He said, and joy arose at his design."]}, {"id": "A0.9.5", "lines": ["But evil temper shadowed all his youth,", "And set him ever against good and truth."]}, {"id": "A0.9.6", "lines": ["Then sudden death assailed him, swift and keen,", "And crowned his head with helm of sable sheen."]}, {"id": "A0.9.7", "lines": ["Through that ill nature he gave up his breath,", "And knew no joyful day before his death."]}, {"id": "A0.9.8", "lines": ["Piece after piece his fortune turned and spun;", "Then by a servant’s hand his life was done."]}, {"id": "A0.9.9", "lines": ["The book remained untold when he was gone;", "His wakeful fortune slumbered on and on."]}, {"id": "A0.9.10", "lines": ["O God, forgive the faults that marked his way,", "And raise his rank upon the Judgment Day."]}, {"id": "A0.10.1", "lines": ["When from Dakiki turned my brightened mind,", "The throne of world-kings drew my heart inclined."]}, {"id": "A0.10.2", "lines": ["“This book to speech I will bring forth,” I vowed,", "And shape its written words before the crowd."]}, {"id": "A0.10.3", "lines": ["From countless men I sought the book each day,", "And feared that time would sweep my life away."]}, {"id": "A0.10.4", "lines": ["I feared my life might fail before the close,", "And leave to other hands the work I chose."]}, {"id": "A0.10.5", "lines": ["Besides, my wealth bore little fruit or gain,", "And none would pay the price of all my pain."]}, {"id": "A0.10.6", "lines": ["So time went on; my purpose stayed concealed,", "My secret aim to no one was revealed."]}, {"id": "A0.10.7", "lines": ["The age was harsh, with war on every side,", "The world grew narrow where the seekers tried."]}, {"id": "A0.10.8", "lines": ["I saw no man deserving of the task,", "None who would help me with the speech I ask."]}, {"id": "A0.10.9", "lines": ["For what on earth is finer to recall", "Than noble words that echo through us all?"]}, {"id": "A0.10.10", "lines": ["If God had not such worthy words bestowed,", "How would the Prophet show the rightful road?"]}, {"id": "A0.10.11", "lines": ["I had a friend, as close as friends can be,", "As though one skin enclosed both him and me."]}, {"id": "A0.10.12", "lines": ["One day he said, “Your purpose I endorse;", "Continue on, you tread the righteous course."]}, {"id": "A0.10.13", "lines": ["I have the Pahlavi book, written, stored;", "I will bring now the book you have implored."]}, {"id": "A0.10.14", "lines": ["Delay no more! You have both youth and art,", "And heroic speech already fills your heart."]}, {"id": "A0.10.15", "lines": ["Retell the stories of our kings of state,", "And so win honor from the good and great.”"]}, {"id": "A0.10.16", "lines": ["He brought the book to me! And in that hour", "The darkness left my heart and gave me power."]}, {"id": "A0.11.1", "lines": ["When to this book I first had set my hand,", "A noble patron rose within the land."]}, {"id": "A0.11.2", "lines": ["He, young in years, yet of Pahlevan line,", "Bright-souled and wise, in judgment clear and fine,"]}, {"id": "A0.11.3", "lines": ["A man of counsel, modest, soft in speech,", "Whose gentle voice brought wisdom within reach,"]}, {"id": "A0.11.4", "lines": ["Said: “What from me would turn your heart to song,", "And keep your spirit steadfast, firm, and strong?"]}, {"id": "A0.11.5", "lines": ["Whatever lies within my power to give,", "I shall provide, so you need none to live;”"]}, {"id": "A0.11.6", "lines": ["He guarded me as one with anxious care", "Guards a fresh apple from the harmful air;"]}, {"id": "A0.11.7", "lines": ["Through him from lowly dust I rose so high,", "I reached the sphere of Saturn in the sky."]}, {"id": "A0.11.8", "lines": ["To him dust, silver, gold were all the same;", "His hand made generosity his fame."]}, {"id": "A0.11.9", "lines": ["The entire world was worthless in his sight,", "A loyal lord, his honor burning bright."]}, {"id": "A0.11.10", "lines": ["One day he vanished from the gathering-place,", "As from a garden cypress leaves no trace."]}, {"id": "A0.11.11", "lines": ["No living trace, no sign in death remained;", "By man-killing nahangs his life was claimed."]}, {"id": "A0.11.12", "lines": ["Alas his hero’s frame, his kingly height,", "That proud broad form now vanished from our sight."]}, {"id": "A0.11.13", "lines": ["Bereft of him, my hopes were cast aside,", "My trembling spirit like a willow sighed."]}, {"id": "A0.11.14", "lines": ["One counsel stayed when he had gone from view,", "And turned me from the crooked to the true."]}, {"id": "A0.11.15", "lines": ["“If this great Book of Kings is brought to speech,", "Entrust it to the kings whose courts you reach.”"]}, {"id": "A0.11.16", "lines": ["My heart grew calm to hear him speak that word;", "My spirit gladdened at the counsel heard."]}, {"id": "A0.11.17", "lines": ["I set my hand upon this book to write,", "Invoking King of Kings, supreme in might."]}, {"id": "A0.11.18", "lines": ["Lord of the crown is he, and Lord of throne,", "World-Holder, victor, wakeful fate his own."]}, {"id": "A0.12.1", "lines": ["Since first the Maker brought the world to birth,", "No king like him has risen on the earth."]}, {"id": "A0.12.2", "lines": ["When on the sphere the sun displayed its crown,", "An ivory radiance clothed the world around."]}, {"id": "A0.12.3", "lines": ["You say, “the sun!” but can the sun compare?", "His light exceeds all radiance anywhere."]}, {"id": "A0.12.4", "lines": ["Abul-Qasim! this all-victorious king", "Has set his throne above the sun’s own ring."]}, {"id": "A0.12.5", "lines": ["From East to West he beautified the earth;", "His farr revealed the golden mines of worth."]}, {"id": "A0.12.6", "lines": ["My slumbering star awoke and gave me cheer,", "And thoughts came surging, swift and bright and clear."]}, {"id": "A0.12.7", "lines": ["I said: “Now is the hour to speak the truth,", "The worn-out age is made again like youth.”"]}, {"id": "A0.12.8", "lines": ["With this great monarch filling all my thought,", "I slept one night, with praise and wonder fraught."]}, {"id": "A0.12.9", "lines": ["My lips were still, yet inwardly I burned,", "My silent heart with hidden brightness turned."]}, {"id": "A0.12.10", "lines": ["And in my dream a dazzling brilliance broke,", "A gleaming candle from the waters woke."]}, {"id": "A0.12.11", "lines": ["It filled the gloom with brilliance like a gem,", "And lit the world: a ruby diadem."]}, {"id": "A0.12.12", "lines": ["The desert shone like woven cloth of gold,", "And reared a turquoise throne, bright to behold."]}, {"id": "A0.12.13", "lines": ["Upon that throne a moonlike lord was set,", "His brow beneath a jeweled coronet."]}, {"id": "A0.12.14", "lines": ["Two mil his army stretched across the plain,", "Seven hundred elephants formed the leftward train."]}, {"id": "A0.12.15", "lines": ["Before him stood a minister upright,", "Who led the Shah in justice, faith, and right."]}, {"id": "A0.12.16", "lines": ["By all those ranks, that splendor spread so wide,", "My senses failed, my reason swept aside."]}, {"id": "A0.12.17", "lines": ["And as I gazed upon that royal face,", "I spoke to those assembled in that place:"]}, {"id": "A0.12.18", "lines": ["“Is this the sphere and moon, or crown and throne?", "Are those stars there, or armies of his own?”"]}, {"id": "A0.12.19", "lines": ["One answered: “This is he whose rule extends", "From Rum to Hind, where every border bends;"]}, {"id": "A0.12.20", "lines": ["From Ghanooj’s lands up to the Sind’s stream,", "His sovereignty fulfills each subject’s dream."]}, {"id": "A0.12.21", "lines": ["In Turan and in Iran all obey,", "All nations bound beneath his sovereign ray."]}, {"id": "A0.12.22", "lines": ["With justice he adorned the waiting earth,", "Then placed upon his head the crown of worth."]}, {"id": "A0.12.23", "lines": ["Great Mahmud rules with justice everywhere;", "At one same water wolf and lamb may share."]}, {"id": "A0.12.24", "lines": ["From Kashmir to the Sea of Chin he reigns;", "Each ruler praises him through their domains."]}, {"id": "A0.12.25", "lines": ["The child just weaned from mother’s milk will frame", "From cradle first great Mahmud’s honored name."]}, {"id": "A0.12.26", "lines": ["None turns his head against the Shah’s command;", "None dares to break the covenant of his hand."]}, {"id": "A0.12.27", "lines": ["Then you as well must speak his praise aloud,", "And seek through him a glory long endowed.”"]}, {"id": "A0.12.28", "lines": ["I woke at once and sprang up from my bed,", "And long that night his praise was all I said."]}, {"id": "A0.12.29", "lines": ["No wealth had I, no coin abroad to send,", "But poured my soul out till the night’s dark end."]}, {"id": "A0.12.30", "lines": ["I told my heart: this dream shall be made plain,", "For blest his fame over all the world shall reign."]}, {"id": "A0.12.31", "lines": ["Then praise the one who praises such a king,", "Whose wakeful fortune makes the whole land spring."]}, {"id": "A0.12.32", "lines": ["His glory clothes the earth in living green,", "Where bloom and beauty grace each changing scene."]}, {"id": "A0.12.33", "lines": ["At season’s call the clouds their bounty bear,", "Till all the world seems Iram’s garden fair."]}, {"id": "A0.12.34", "lines": ["All good in Iran springs from justice rare;", "Wherever people dwell, his fame they share."]}, {"id": "A0.12.35", "lines": ["At feasts his hand rains gold like falling showers,", "In war he strikes with all a dragon’s powers."]}, {"id": "A0.12.36", "lines": ["His body elephantine, great in might;", "His soul, Gabriel; cloud-hand, Nile-heart bright."]}, {"id": "A0.12.37", "lines": ["Before his wrath, a foeman’s luckless head", "Seems like a worthless coin beneath his tread."]}, {"id": "A0.12.38", "lines": ["He does not vaunt his crown or treasure-store,", "Nor flinches from the sternest test of war."]}, {"id": "A0.12.39", "lines": ["All those who serve him, be they great or small,", "Stand armed and ready at their master’s call."]}, {"id": "A0.12.40", "lines": ["Foremost his brother stands, though young in years,", "His courage matchless among his peers."]}, {"id": "A0.12.41", "lines": ["A seeker of all glory and renown,", "He joys beneath the Great King’s sheltering crown."]}, {"id": "A0.12.42", "lines": ["His father bore the Nasir al-Din name;", "Above his throne the Pleiades crown his fame."]}, {"id": "A0.12.43", "lines": ["Next stands the lord of Tus, in battle tried,", "Who mocks the lion raging in its pride."]}, {"id": "A0.12.44", "lines": ["Whatever wealth the world bestows, he gives;", "And through the world in praise his honor lives."]}, {"id": "A0.12.45", "lines": ["He leads men Godward in both word and deed,", "And prays the Shah long life and fortune speed."]}, {"id": "A0.12.46", "lines": ["May earth not see that royal head laid low,", "May he in health and triumph ever go,"]}, {"id": "A0.12.47", "lines": ["Secure in crown and throne, and free from pain,", "And fortune’s hand confirm his just domain."]}, {"id": "A0.12.48", "lines": ["Now to the work’s beginning I proceed,", "And turn toward that famed Shah’s recorded deed."]}]}, {"id": "A1", "title": "The First Kings: Kioumars", "summary": "3 sections · 73 couplets", "path": "/poem/a1/", "couplets": [{"id": "A1.1.1", "lines": ["What says the dehqan? Who in ancient years", "First ruled, and raised the crown above his peers?"]}, {"id": "A1.1.2", "lines": ["Who first gave royal name its lasting fame,", "And stood among the great with highest claim?"]}, {"id": "A1.1.3", "lines": ["The record of those days has passed away,", "Save what a son from father’s words can say,"]}, {"id": "A1.1.4", "lines": ["From father down to son the record ran,", "Declaring who first ruled the world of man."]}, {"id": "A1.1.5", "lines": ["The ancient teller of heroic lore,", "Who gathered legends from the days of yore,"]}, {"id": "A1.1.6", "lines": ["Declares that Kioumars, before the rest,", "First wore the Shah’s high crown, supreme and blest."]}, {"id": "A1.1.7", "lines": ["Then order, farr, and splendor came to earth,", "When Aries held the sun at spring’s rebirth;"]}, {"id": "A1.1.8", "lines": ["So bright it shone, the aging world grew young,", "And life renewed where once no song was sung."]}, {"id": "A1.1.9", "lines": ["Kioumars ruled, he dwelled upon the heights,", "Of mountain slopes that caught a crown of lights."]}, {"id": "A1.1.10", "lines": ["From there his throne and fortune rose to fame,", "And all his followers shared his primal claim."]}, {"id": "A1.1.11", "lines": ["In leopard skins were clothed both lord and band,", "While arts of life first stirred at his command;"]}, {"id": "A1.1.12", "lines": ["For food and dress were yet in earliest form,", "And human craft was scarcely yet the norm."]}, {"id": "A1.1.13", "lines": ["He ruled the world for thirty circling years,", "A sun in goodness, free from doubt or fears;"]}, {"id": "A1.1.14", "lines": ["A moon above a cypress tall and bright,", "He blazed upon his throne of kingly right."]}, {"id": "A1.1.15", "lines": ["The wild and tame came gently to his gaze,", "And gathered round his throne in peaceful ways."]}, {"id": "A1.1.16", "lines": ["The creatures bowed before his royal place,", "And bent in awe beneath his shining grace."]}, {"id": "A1.1.17", "lines": ["From him they took their faith and settled creed,", "And learned the paths that guided every deed."]}, {"id": "A1.1.18", "lines": ["He had a son, Siamak was his name,", "In skill and promise equal to his fame;"]}, {"id": "A1.1.19", "lines": ["The father’s life, his joy, his heart’s delight,", "A noble branch and lovely to the sight."]}, {"id": "A1.1.20", "lines": ["That life he cherished with a tender care,", "But feared a stroke of fate beyond repair."]}, {"id": "A1.1.21", "lines": ["So time moved on; the Shah’s bright fortune grew,", "And day by day it shone with brighter hue."]}, {"id": "A1.1.22", "lines": ["No foe opposed him anywhere below,", "Save dark Ahriman, his relentless foe."]}, {"id": "A1.1.23", "lines": ["Consumed by envy, Ahriman lay still,", "And plotted while he gathered strength and will."]}, {"id": "A1.1.24", "lines": ["He had a son, a savage, wolf-like force,", "Made bold by rage and hardened in his course;"]}, {"id": "A1.1.25", "lines": ["With warriors massed and ready to advance,", "He moved against the Shah with sword and lance."]}, {"id": "A1.1.26", "lines": ["Resolved to win the crown and throne by might,", "And dim Siamak’s fortune and his light,"]}, {"id": "A1.1.27", "lines": ["He spread his purpose, filling all with cries,", "Till rumor rose like storm across the skies."]}, {"id": "A1.1.28", "lines": ["But Kioumars knew nothing of the snare,", "Nor knew another sought his royal chair."]}, {"id": "A1.1.29", "lines": ["Then blessed Soroush came in pari guise,", "Clad in leopard skin before the Shah’s eyes."]}, {"id": "A1.1.30", "lines": ["He told the Shah the enemy’s design,", "And warned him of the plot against his line."]}, {"id": "A1.2.1", "lines": ["The foul Div’s malice drove him to attack;", "His kindled wrath flared up; no drawing back."]}, {"id": "A1.2.2", "lines": ["He mustered all his troops and led the fight,", "And strode before their ranks with wrathful might."]}, {"id": "A1.2.3", "lines": ["No jowshan yet for war was forged in fire;", "The prince wore leopard skin for his attire."]}, {"id": "A1.2.4", "lines": ["Bare-bodied Siamak came out to strife", "To grapple Ahriman’s dark son for life."]}, {"id": "A1.2.5", "lines": ["The Black Div seized him in his claws and bent", "The prince in two; down hard and fast he went."]}, {"id": "A1.2.6", "lines": ["He tore his liver-place with savage blow;", "So Siamak was slain, and laid full low."]}, {"id": "A1.2.7", "lines": ["His warriors stood without their chief that day,", "Their leader slain, their battle strength astray."]}, {"id": "A1.2.8", "lines": ["Kioumars heard, the world grew black as night;", "He quit his throne and raged against his plight."]}, {"id": "A1.2.9", "lines": ["He rent his face, his body raked with grief,", "His cheeks ran blood, his heart found no relief."]}, {"id": "A1.2.10", "lines": ["His eyes were brimming, and they would not dry,", "Wet as the clouds of spring that load the sky."]}, {"id": "A1.2.11", "lines": ["All men lamented, burned in sorrow’s flame,", "All robed in mourning, weeping as they came."]}, {"id": "A1.2.12", "lines": ["In turquoise robes the mourners formed their line,", "With blood-filled eyes before the throne divine."]}, {"id": "A1.2.13", "lines": ["Their cheeks were flushed like wine, their tears ran red,", "And through the world a sea of sorrow spread."]}, {"id": "A1.2.14", "lines": ["Birds, beasts both fierce and timid, sought the height,", "Toward the mountain, wailing, took their flight."]}, {"id": "A1.2.15", "lines": ["Dust rose in clouds before the royal gate,", "All nature joined to mourn the prince’s fate."]}, {"id": "A1.2.16", "lines": ["A year passed on in grief’s relentless chain,", "A word came from the Judge and Maker plain."]}, {"id": "A1.2.17", "lines": ["Then blessed Soroush brought greeting: “Cease your cry,", "Rise up, take arms, and let your sorrow die."]}, {"id": "A1.2.18", "lines": ["At my command, assemble your array;", "Raise dust and march against the Div today."]}, {"id": "A1.2.19", "lines": ["Sweep from the earth that Div of evil deed,", "And of its vengeance let your heart be freed.”"]}, {"id": "A1.2.20", "lines": ["The Shah looked up and cursed his hated foes,", "And on the ill-thinker called down all woes."]}, {"id": "A1.2.21", "lines": ["He called upon great Yazdan’s highest Name,", "And down his lashes running teardrops came."]}, {"id": "A1.2.22", "lines": ["He hastened Siamak’s blood to repay,", "And knew no rest nor sleep by night or day."]}, {"id": "A1.3.1", "lines": ["The slain Siamak left a son behind,", "A prince named Hushang, wise in heart and mind."]}, {"id": "A1.3.2", "lines": ["Beside Kioumars, honored in his place,", "He served as counselor, all wisdom and grace."]}, {"id": "A1.3.3", "lines": ["To Kioumars he was his father’s sign,", "Reared at his breast, a cherished living line."]}, {"id": "A1.3.4", "lines": ["He held him as a son, his dearest care,", "And fixed his hopes on him and none elsewhere."]}, {"id": "A1.3.5", "lines": ["The Shah, resolved on war, called forth the youth,", "And shared with him the full and solemn truth."]}, {"id": "A1.3.6", "lines": ["“I will gather troops, sound the battle-cry,", "A mighty tumult shall ascend the sky."]}, {"id": "A1.3.7", "lines": ["You must go first and lead them in my stead;", "I must depart; you are the captain ahead.”"]}, {"id": "A1.3.8", "lines": ["He gathered paris, leopards, lions bold,", "With wolves and tigers fierce beyond control;"]}, {"id": "A1.3.9", "lines": ["Wild beasts and tame, the birds and paris came,", "With Hushang at their head, intent on fame."]}, {"id": "A1.3.10", "lines": ["Before the ranks the vengeful grandson led;", "Behind the army Kioumars Shah then sped."]}, {"id": "A1.3.11", "lines": ["The Black Div came in fear before their might,", "And hurled his dust toward heaven’s towering height."]}, {"id": "A1.3.12", "lines": ["The beasts’ great roaring weakened claw and hand,", "Before the wrath of him who ruled the land."]}, {"id": "A1.3.13", "lines": ["The two great forces crashed in battle’s roar;", "The Divs could bear the beasts’ assault no more."]}, {"id": "A1.3.14", "lines": ["Then Hushang sprang upon the Div in rage,", "And made the world grow narrow as a cage."]}, {"id": "A1.3.15", "lines": ["He seized the vast Div, held him stretched and tight,", "Then struck his head from off his neck outright."]}, {"id": "A1.3.16", "lines": ["He cast him at his feet and struck him prone;", "His hide was torn, his fortune overthrown."]}, {"id": "A1.3.17", "lines": ["For Siamak the vengeance now was won;", "The blood-debt paid, the hour of wrath was done."]}, {"id": "A1.3.18", "lines": ["When Kioumars had gained the vengeance due,", "His measured span of days was finished too."]}, {"id": "A1.3.19", "lines": ["He passed away and left the world behind,", "An inheritance for those of humankind."]}, {"id": "A1.3.20", "lines": ["This treacherous world may show the road to wealth,", "Then squander all our capital by stealth."]}, {"id": "A1.3.21", "lines": ["The world from end to end is but a tale;", "For neither good nor evil can prevail."]}]}, {"id": "A2", "title": "The First Kings: Hushang", "summary": "2 sections · 39 couplets", "path": "/poem/a2/", "couplets": [{"id": "A2.1.1", "lines": ["Hushang, a sovereign, prudent, just, and wise,", "Assumed the crown beneath the circling skies."]}, {"id": "A2.1.2", "lines": ["For forty years the heavens turned above,", "While wisdom ruled, and justice won men’s love."]}, {"id": "A2.1.3", "lines": ["He said: “Now all the Seven Climes are mine;", "Victorious, I rule by will divine."]}, {"id": "A2.1.4", "lines": ["By God’s command I gird myself to reign,", "With justice and with bounty in my train.”"]}, {"id": "A2.1.5", "lines": ["He shaped the world and ordered all the land,", "And spread out justice by his guiding hand."]}, {"id": "A2.1.6", "lines": ["He first drew iron from the hardest stone,", "And taught the craft that men had never known."]}, {"id": "A2.1.7", "lines": ["With growing skill he fashioned tools for toil,", "The axe, the saw, the mattock for the soil."]}, {"id": "A2.1.8", "lines": ["He carved out channels where the streams might run,", "And watered all the fields beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "A2.1.9", "lines": ["Through cut and trench he tamed the water’s pride,", "And farr made light his labors far and wide."]}, {"id": "A2.1.10", "lines": ["As knowledge grew, men learned to sow the grain,", "Then reaped the harvest yielded by the plain."]}, {"id": "A2.1.11", "lines": ["Each labored for the bread his hands could earn,", "And each his proper task and station learned."]}, {"id": "A2.1.12", "lines": ["Before these arts, men lived on fruit alone,", "And leaves were all the clothing they had known."]}, {"id": "A2.1.13", "lines": ["The ancient rites of faith remained secure,", "And worship of the Maker still endured."]}, {"id": "A2.1.14", "lines": ["Through Hushang fire was struck from hidden rock,", "A secret gift that none could yet unlock."]}, {"id": "A2.1.15", "lines": ["Its radiance spread throughout the world entire;", "Now hear how Hushang first discovered fire."]}, {"id": "A2.2.1", "lines": ["One day he gained the mountain’s stony height,", "With several companions there in sight."]}, {"id": "A2.2.2", "lines": ["From far he saw a long black shape appear,", "Dark-bodied, swift, and drawing quickly near."]}, {"id": "A2.2.3", "lines": ["Its eyes were like two springs of flowing blood,", "While smoke poured from its mouth in choking flood."]}, {"id": "A2.2.4", "lines": ["He seized a stone and hurled it, swift and true,", "A kingly cast that split the dusk in two."]}, {"id": "A2.2.5", "lines": ["The monstrous worm escaped the flying blow;", "The stone struck rock and cast a fiery glow."]}, {"id": "A2.2.6", "lines": ["From shattered flint the leaping sparks broke through,", "And from that seed the earliest fire grew."]}, {"id": "A2.2.7", "lines": ["Thus stone on stone awoke the sleeping spark,", "And light leapt out and split the ancient dark."]}, {"id": "A2.2.8", "lines": ["The serpent lived, but from the stones that burned,", "The hidden secret of the fire was learned."]}, {"id": "A2.2.9", "lines": ["Then Hushang praised that radiance newly known,", "And marked it as a grace from God alone."]}, {"id": "A2.2.10", "lines": ["He thanked the Maker for that gift of light,", "And made the fire the heart of sacred rite."]}, {"id": "A2.2.11", "lines": ["“This radiance comes from God,” the monarch said;", "“The wise should honor what His grace has spread.”"]}, {"id": "A2.2.12", "lines": ["That night he lit a blaze both broad and high,", "And stood with all his troops beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "A2.2.13", "lines": ["Then they all feasted, drinking the ruby wine,", "And named the feast of Sadeh by that sign."]}, {"id": "A2.2.14", "lines": ["Thus Sadeh kept Hushang’s remembrance clear;", "May kings like him arise from year to year."]}, {"id": "A2.2.15", "lines": ["He made the world more prosperous and glad,", "And men recalled the goodness that he had."]}, {"id": "A2.2.16", "lines": ["By God-given Glory and his royal grace,", "He marked Gur-e-Khar and deer of the chase."]}, {"id": "A2.2.17", "lines": ["The ox, the ass, the sheep he set apart,", "And taught men how to use them through their art."]}, {"id": "A2.2.18", "lines": ["Of beasts whose coats bore fine and useful hair,", "He took their skins and fashioned garments fair."]}, {"id": "A2.2.19", "lines": ["Of fox and ermine, squirrel, sable too,", "He learned which pelts were warm and strong and true."]}, {"id": "A2.2.20", "lines": ["Their skins he gave for garments warm and fine,", "To clothe mankind through craft and wise design."]}, {"id": "A2.2.21", "lines": ["He labored, gave, enjoyed what life could lend,", "And took his good name with him at the end."]}, {"id": "A2.2.22", "lines": ["In toil and thought his many years were cast,", "In arts and wonders, numberless and vast."]}, {"id": "A2.2.23", "lines": ["When better days beyond this life drew near,", "His royal throne remained when he left here."]}, {"id": "A2.2.24", "lines": ["The world will never bind itself to man,", "Nor bare its face within a mortal span."]}]}, {"id": "A3", "title": "The First Kings: Tahmuras", "summary": "1 section · 48 couplets", "path": "/poem/a3/", "couplets": [{"id": "A3.1.1", "lines": ["Hushang begot a son of noble frame,", "Tahmuras, the Div-binder, was his name."]}, {"id": "A3.1.2", "lines": ["He took the throne and girded for command,", "Then called Mobadan, wisest in the land:"]}, {"id": "A3.1.3", "lines": ["“The crown and throne, the gorz and royal seat,", "Are mine today, beneath my rule complete."]}, {"id": "A3.1.4", "lines": ["With wisdom I will wash the world of wrong,", "Then set my royal throne where right is strong."]}, {"id": "A3.1.5", "lines": ["I will subdue the Divs, their power restrain,", "And rule supreme with justice in my reign."]}, {"id": "A3.1.6", "lines": ["Whatever useful thing lies hid from sight,", "I shall bring forth and draw it into light.”"]}, {"id": "A3.1.7", "lines": ["He sheared the wool from sheep and lambs, then spun", "The fibers into thread; the craft begun."]}, {"id": "A3.1.8", "lines": ["From wool he fashioned garments men could wear,", "And wove cloth through skill and patient care."]}, {"id": "A3.1.9", "lines": ["He wove rugs and coverings for the floor,", "And added useful crafts unknown before."]}, {"id": "A3.1.10", "lines": ["He fed the swift beasts grass and barley grain,", "And brought their strength and swiftness under rein."]}, {"id": "A3.1.11", "lines": ["He marked the great beasts roaming plain and hill,", "The fierce-eyed lynx, the cheetah swift to kill."]}, {"id": "A3.1.12", "lines": ["From mountain slopes and deserts brought them near,", "Till human touch no longer woke their fear."]}, {"id": "A3.1.13", "lines": ["He chose among the birds that swoop and dive,", "The hawk and falcon, trained with him to strive."]}, {"id": "A3.1.14", "lines": ["He trained them all with patience, beast and bird,", "While men stood stunned at wonders never heard."]}, {"id": "A3.1.15", "lines": ["He brought the hen and cock to settled ground,", "And learned the uses in their life and sound."]}, {"id": "A3.1.16", "lines": ["The cock proclaimed the hour with timely cry,", "And marked the watches as the night went by."]}, {"id": "A3.1.17", "lines": ["He bade men treat all creatures with goodwill,", "And speak with kindness, never seeking ill."]}, {"id": "A3.1.18", "lines": ["Then said: “Give praise to Him who fashioned all,", "Who placed these creatures subject to our call."]}, {"id": "A3.1.19", "lines": ["He showed the path to rule through all our days;", "So give His holy name our constant praise.”"]}, {"id": "A3.1.20", "lines": ["He had a minister both just and wise,", "Shidasp by name, and spotless in men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "A3.1.21", "lines": ["No step he took except toward what was right,", "Beloved by all for counsel pure and bright."]}, {"id": "A3.1.22", "lines": ["He fasted through the day till fell the night,", "Then stood in prayer until the morning light."]}, {"id": "A3.1.23", "lines": ["He was the pillar of the Shah’s success,", "And checked the wicked when they would oppress."]}, {"id": "A3.1.24", "lines": ["He taught the king all virtue to embrace,", "Till farr divine shone from Tahmuras’ face."]}, {"id": "A3.1.25", "lines": ["The king bound Ahriman by magic’s spell,", "And rode him like a steed he governed well."]}, {"id": "A3.1.26", "lines": ["At times he saddled him and rode around", "The world, from distant plain to distant ground."]}, {"id": "A3.1.27", "lines": ["The Divs rebelled against the Shah’s command,", "And gathered in great numbers through the land."]}, {"id": "A3.1.28", "lines": ["They sought to seize his throne, to strip his crown", "And farr, and bring his sovereign power down."]}, {"id": "A3.1.29", "lines": ["When Tahmuras perceived their mustering swarm,", "His anger flared; he armed against the storm."]}, {"id": "A3.1.30", "lines": ["With royal farr he girded for the fight,", "His heavy gorz upon his shoulder bright."]}, {"id": "A3.1.31", "lines": ["Then all the Divs and warlocks gathered near,", "A mass of sorcery and howling fear."]}, {"id": "A3.1.32", "lines": ["The Black Div led them, roaring in their wrath,", "Their clamor shaking earth along their path."]}, {"id": "A3.1.33", "lines": ["The sky grew dark, the earth was turned to night,", "And every eye was dimmed and lost its sight."]}, {"id": "A3.1.34", "lines": ["But Tahmuras advanced in battle’s flame,", "Resolved to crush their power and blot their name."]}, {"id": "A3.1.35", "lines": ["On one side the Div fire and smoke arose,", "Across from them the Shah’s men faced their foes."]}, {"id": "A3.1.36", "lines": ["He ranked his troops and struck with ordered might,", "And drove the howling Div horde to flight."]}, {"id": "A3.1.37", "lines": ["By magic, two-thirds of the Divs he tied;", "Beneath his heavy gorz the others died."]}, {"id": "A3.1.38", "lines": ["Before the Shah the chastened captives came,", "Wounded and bound, stripped low of pride and fame."]}, {"id": "A3.1.39", "lines": ["The captives begged for mercy in humbled tone:", "“Destroy us not! But let our skill be known."]}, {"id": "A3.1.40", "lines": ["A fruitful art we teach you by this vow,", "If you will spare us and accept it now.”"]}, {"id": "A3.1.41", "lines": ["He spared their lives and loosed each binding cord;", "They had to yield the knowledge they had stored."]}, {"id": "A3.1.42", "lines": ["They taught him writing, nearly thirty ways,", "And showed how thought could live beyond men’s days."]}, {"id": "A3.1.43", "lines": ["The Roman, Farsi, Arabic they knew,", "Chinese and Sughdian and Pahlavi too."]}, {"id": "A3.1.44", "lines": ["By many more they made men’s meaning clear,", "So thought could cross the years from far to near."]}, {"id": "A3.1.45", "lines": ["For thirty years he brought forth art on art,", "And taught mankind through wisdom, mind, and heart."]}, {"id": "A3.1.46", "lines": ["When his allotted span at last was done,", "His works remained, remembered all and one."]}, {"id": "A3.1.47", "lines": ["O world, do not caress those doomed to fall,", "Such favor proves no kindness after all."]}, {"id": "A3.1.48", "lines": ["You raise a man to heaven’s height one day,", "Then cast him down in dust and turn away."]}]}, {"id": "A4", "title": "The First Kings: Jamshid and the Rise of Zahhak", "summary": "4 sections · 204 couplets", "path": "/poem/a4/", "couplets": [{"id": "A4.1.1", "lines": ["Jamshid, the son of Tahmuras the wise,", "Took up the crown that reached toward the skies."]}, {"id": "A4.1.2", "lines": ["With all his father’s teachings firmly known,", "He rose and claimed the crown, the realm his own."]}, {"id": "A4.1.3", "lines": ["He wore the diadem of shining gold,", "And ruled with glory like the kings of old."]}, {"id": "A4.1.4", "lines": ["He girded on the royal farr as guide,", "And all the world obeyed him far and wide."]}, {"id": "A4.1.5", "lines": ["Contention ceased, and rest came over all;", "Div, bird, and pari answered to his call."]}, {"id": "A4.1.6", "lines": ["The world grew bright beneath his sovereign hand,", "And splendor spread throughout the glorious land."]}, {"id": "A4.1.7", "lines": ["“With divine farr, both Shah and Mobad I;", "In me the crown and sacred office lie."]}, {"id": "A4.1.8", "lines": ["The wicked from their evil course I turn,", "And lead all souls toward light for which they yearn.”"]}, {"id": "A4.1.9", "lines": ["He forged the arms that warriors must wield,", "And opened wide the gate of honor’s field."]}, {"id": "A4.1.10", "lines": ["With farr he made the stubborn iron flow,", "And forged its strength to meet the coming foe."]}, {"id": "A4.1.11", "lines": ["He made the helmet, jowshan, cuirass bright,", "And quilted armor for the press of fight."]}, {"id": "A4.1.12", "lines": ["He forged the sword and barding for the steed,", "And every arm a warrior might need."]}, {"id": "A4.1.13", "lines": ["His eager mind brought every art to flower,", "For fifty years he labored, hour by hour."]}, {"id": "A4.1.14", "lines": ["Then fifty more he gave to cloth and thread,", "To clothe mankind for banquet, field, and bed."]}, {"id": "A4.1.15", "lines": ["From linen, silk, and wool the thread was spun,", "Fine cloth and costly fabrics were begun."]}, {"id": "A4.1.16", "lines": ["He taught men spinning, twisting strands to twine,", "And weaving warp with weft to fabrics fine."]}, {"id": "A4.1.17", "lines": ["Then woven cloth was washed and sewn with skill,", "And men learned every craft at Jamshid’s will."]}, {"id": "A4.1.18", "lines": ["Then, for mankind, he set in ordered place", "The four great orders of the human race."]}, {"id": "A4.1.19", "lines": ["He summoned craftsmen forth to fill this space,", "And spent another fifty years apace."]}, {"id": "A4.1.20", "lines": ["The first, the Katozians, served in prayer;", "Apart from other men, devout in care."]}, {"id": "A4.1.21", "lines": ["Upon the mountains he ordained their ways,", "That worship might alone command their days."]}, {"id": "A4.1.22", "lines": ["They bowed before the radiant Lord of all,", "And made His worship their enduring call."]}, {"id": "A4.1.23", "lines": ["The second rank the Nisarians were named,", "The lion-hearted warriors, battle-famed."]}, {"id": "A4.1.24", "lines": ["They peopled all the armies far and wide,", "The shield of kingdoms, and the nation’s pride."]}, {"id": "A4.1.25", "lines": ["Through them the royal throne remained secure,", "And through their deeds the warrior’s name endured."]}, {"id": "A4.1.26", "lines": ["The third, the Nasudi, tilled the ground;", "They sowed and reaped where ripened grain was found."]}, {"id": "A4.1.27", "lines": ["They ate the bread their own hands brought from soil,", "And heard no man reproach their honest toil."]}, {"id": "A4.1.28", "lines": ["Though ragged-clad, no master’s word obeyed,", "As free men on their given fields they stayed."]}, {"id": "A4.1.29", "lines": ["Their bodies free, the world through them was fed;", "No judge or quarrel troubled where they tread."]}, {"id": "A4.1.30", "lines": ["The sages said; and heed the words they gave:", "“Through sloth, a free man makes himself a slave.”"]}, {"id": "A4.1.31", "lines": ["The fourth, Ahtukhushi, worked by hand,", "The craftsmen serving needs throughout the land."]}, {"id": "A4.1.32", "lines": ["Their craft was labor; thought was never still,", "Their restless minds grew sharper through their skill."]}, {"id": "A4.1.33", "lines": ["Thus Jamshid spent full fifty years in toil,", "Till all men found their place upon the soil."]}, {"id": "A4.1.34", "lines": ["For every order he assigned its place,", "That each might know his measure and his space."]}, {"id": "A4.1.35", "lines": ["He bade the Divs reshape the earth with skill,", "And mix the clay with water at his will."]}, {"id": "A4.1.36", "lines": ["They learned which forms could rise from tempered clay,", "And molded bricks to build without delay."]}, {"id": "A4.1.37", "lines": ["With stone and lime the Divs raised walls upright,", "And works of measured building came to light."]}, {"id": "A4.1.38", "lines": ["They raised great baths and palaces on high,", "And sheltering eyvans opened to the sky."]}, {"id": "A4.1.39", "lines": ["He searched the mountains for their hidden store,", "And sought bright gems within the stubborn ore."]}, {"id": "A4.1.40", "lines": ["Ruby and garnet, silver, shining gold;", "The mountain yielded treasures from its hold."]}, {"id": "A4.1.41", "lines": ["By magic from the hard stone these he drew,", "And opened hidden bonds no craftsman knew."]}, {"id": "A4.1.42", "lines": ["Then fragrant things he taught mankind to brew,", "The scents whose sweetness men would long pursue."]}, {"id": "A4.1.43", "lines": ["He brought forth camphor, bān, and fragrant musk,", "Aloeswood and ambergris from dusk;"]}, {"id": "A4.1.44", "lines": ["He brought forth medicine for every pain,", "And showed how health might overcome its bane."]}, {"id": "A4.1.45", "lines": ["The secrets of good health he brought to light;", "No seeker ever reached so great a height."]}, {"id": "A4.1.46", "lines": ["Then over water he by ship would fare,", "From land to land he hastened everywhere."]}, {"id": "A4.1.47", "lines": ["For fifty years he labored over art;", "No craft stayed closed to wisdom’s searching heart."]}, {"id": "A4.1.48", "lines": ["When all these works were brought to fitting place,", "He raised his step beyond his former space."]}, {"id": "A4.1.49", "lines": ["He built a throne with jewels richly set,", "The like of which no eye had witnessed yet."]}, {"id": "A4.1.50", "lines": ["When he commanded, Divs bore it on high,", "And raised it from the plain toward the sky."]}, {"id": "A4.1.51", "lines": ["There sat the Shah, like sunlight in the air,", "While all the world gazed up in wondering stare."]}, {"id": "A4.1.52", "lines": ["The world assembled round his jeweled throne,", "Astonished by the farr that round him shone."]}, {"id": "A4.1.53", "lines": ["On Jamshid gems were scattered in a spray,", "And they named Nowruz for that newborn day."]}, {"id": "A4.1.54", "lines": ["On Ormozd day, when Farvardin began,", "The New Year opened for the world of man."]}, {"id": "A4.1.55", "lines": ["The body rested then from toil and pain,", "The heart found rest from rancor and disdain."]}, {"id": "A4.1.56", "lines": ["The chiefs rejoiced and raised the cup with wine,", "While harp and song proclaimed the feast divine."]}, {"id": "A4.1.57", "lines": ["That blessed feast remained from ancient kings,", "A royal memory that each Nowruz brings."]}, {"id": "A4.1.58", "lines": ["For three full centuries their fortune shone;", "Throughout the world, death’s shadow was unknown."]}, {"id": "A4.1.59", "lines": ["No pain or evil marred the lives of men;", "The girded Divs obeyed their bidding then."]}, {"id": "A4.1.60", "lines": ["They bent their ears to every human word,", "And songs of joy throughout the world were heard."]}, {"id": "A4.1.61", "lines": ["So years went by beneath his royal farr;", "The world saw only good beneath his star."]}, {"id": "A4.1.62", "lines": ["At last, from his high throne, he gazed about,", "And saw himself alone the world throughout."]}, {"id": "A4.1.63", "lines": ["Though knowing God, the Shah succumbed to pride;", "He turned from God and cast all thanks aside."]}, {"id": "A4.1.64", "lines": ["He summoned all the great men of his train,", "And spoke these words, grown arrogant and vain:"]}, {"id": "A4.1.65", "lines": ["“I know no other sovereign on this earth;", "All arts that grace the world from me had birth."]}, {"id": "A4.1.66", "lines": ["I made the world as fair as you behold;", "It took the very shape my will foretold."]}, {"id": "A4.1.67", "lines": ["Your food and sleep and rest all come through me;", "Your labor, pleasure, clothing; all you see."]}, {"id": "A4.1.68", "lines": ["The royal crown and greatness all are mine;", "Who dares proclaim another king’s design?"]}, {"id": "A4.1.69", "lines": ["Through medicine I made the sick arise;", "Through me death lost its terror in your eyes."]}, {"id": "A4.1.70", "lines": ["Your life and reason in your bodies came", "Through me; who doubts me bears Ahriman’s name."]}, {"id": "A4.1.71", "lines": ["If you acknowledge all these deeds as mine,", "Then call me World-Creator by design.”"]}, {"id": "A4.1.72", "lines": ["Mobadan bowed; no answer could be heard;", "Then divine farr withdrew at Jamshid’s word."]}, {"id": "A4.1.73", "lines": ["For twenty-three full years his court declined,", "His troops dispersed, his champions left behind."]}, {"id": "A4.1.74", "lines": ["The wise have said: “When kingship comes to you,", "Serve God, and let your gratitude stay true.”"]}, {"id": "A4.1.75", "lines": ["Dark grew the day for Jamshid in his fear;", "His world-bright farr began to disappear."]}, {"id": "A4.1.76", "lines": ["He wept blood-tears and begged his Maker’s grace;", "His farr still waned; dread darkened every place."]}, {"id": "A4.2.1", "lines": ["Among the desert riders, spear in hand,", "There lived a king who ruled that arid land."]}, {"id": "A4.2.2", "lines": ["A noble king, a good and upright man,", "Who feared the Maker, faithful to His plan."]}, {"id": "A4.2.3", "lines": ["Mardas his name, whose justice won renown,", "Whose generous hand brought honor to his crown."]}, {"id": "A4.2.4", "lines": ["A thousand head of every milking breed", "He kept upon his lands for human need."]}, {"id": "A4.2.5", "lines": ["Goats, camels, sheep were gathered in his fold,", "Each kind a thousand, as the tale is told."]}, {"id": "A4.2.6", "lines": ["Milk-giving cattle grazed across the plain,", "With Arab horses swift beneath the rein."]}, {"id": "A4.2.7", "lines": ["Whoever needed milk could take his fill;", "His herds stood open to the needy still."]}, {"id": "A4.2.8", "lines": ["He had one son, the child he loved full well,", "Zahhak, whose name the ancient stories tell."]}, {"id": "A4.2.9", "lines": ["Bold, reckless, heedless, daring in his way,", "He rushed where impulse drove him day by day."]}, {"id": "A4.2.10", "lines": ["Biwarasp was the name the ancients knew,", "A Pahlavi name handed down as true."]}, {"id": "A4.2.11", "lines": ["In Pahlavi, biwar, the learned state,", "Means ten thousand when the Dari translate."]}, {"id": "A4.2.12", "lines": ["Ten thousand Arab horses, golden-geared,", "Were his; from them that ancient name appeared."]}, {"id": "A4.2.13", "lines": ["He rode out often, ranging on the plain,", "For royal state, not bent on war or gain."]}, {"id": "A4.2.14", "lines": ["One day Iblis approached in friendly guise,", "And seemed a well-wisher, sincere and wise."]}, {"id": "A4.2.15", "lines": ["He turned the young man’s heart from virtue’s track,", "And Zahhak listened, never drawing back."]}, {"id": "A4.2.16", "lines": ["The tempter’s words were pleasing to his ear;", "He never saw the ugliness draw near."]}, {"id": "A4.2.17", "lines": ["He gave him heart and reason, soul and trust,", "And heaped upon his own head grief and dust."]}, {"id": "A4.2.18", "lines": ["He saw the youth was trapped beyond release,", "And in his heart his wicked joy increased."]}, {"id": "A4.2.19", "lines": ["With polished phrases then he plied his art,", "Till wisdom drained from Zahhak’s mind and heart."]}, {"id": "A4.2.20", "lines": ["“I know of things no other man does know,", "Secrets that only I to you will show.”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.21", "lines": ["The prince replied: “Then speak without delay!", "What would you tell me? Tell me now, I say!”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.22", "lines": ["Iblis replied: “First pledge your word to me;", "Then I will speak and set my meaning free.”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.23", "lines": ["The trusting youth then pledged as he was told,", "And swore the oath that placed him in his hold."]}, {"id": "A4.2.24", "lines": ["“Your secret I will guard from light of day;", "Whatever you tell me, I will obey.”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.25", "lines": ["Then Iblis said, “Why should another stand", "As master in your house and hold command?"]}, {"id": "A4.2.26", "lines": ["Why need a son like you a father still?", "Hear one good counsel and accept my will."]}, {"id": "A4.2.27", "lines": ["This aging master lingers in your way,", "While rank and honor still remain at bay."]}, {"id": "A4.2.28", "lines": ["Take up his wealth, his station, and his crown;", "Such royal greatness fits your high renown."]}, {"id": "A4.2.29", "lines": ["If you hold fast to all that I advise,", "The whole world under you shall be your prize.”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.30", "lines": ["When Zahhak heard, he pondered in dismay;", "His father’s blood weighed on his heart that day."]}, {"id": "A4.2.31", "lines": ["He said: “Not so! Some other counsel share;", "This deed does not befit me; I forbear.”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.32", "lines": ["Iblis replied: “If you should turn away,", "You break the oath you swore to me today."]}, {"id": "A4.2.33", "lines": ["The oath and bond remain upon your neck;", "Your father stays renowned; you sink to wreck.”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.34", "lines": ["The Arab youth was caught within the snare,", "And chose the fiend’s command in his despair."]}, {"id": "A4.2.35", "lines": ["At last he said: “What must I do? Declare!", "Whatever you command, I now will bear.”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.36", "lines": ["Iblis replied: “The remedy is mine;", "Your head shall rise, and like the sun shall shine."]}, {"id": "A4.2.37", "lines": ["I need no aid. My craft alone will serve;", "But keep your silence now, and do not swerve.”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.38", "lines": ["Within the palace stood a garden fair,", "A pleasant orchard tended with great care."]}, {"id": "A4.2.39", "lines": ["Before the dawn, Mardas would rise each day,", "And make himself prepared to kneel and pray."]}, {"id": "A4.2.40", "lines": ["He washed his head and body out of sight;", "No servant bore a lamp before the light."]}, {"id": "A4.2.41", "lines": ["The evil one dug deep into the ground,", "Along the path where Mardas made his round."]}, {"id": "A4.2.42", "lines": ["He covered it with brush and leafy screen,", "Then smoothed the road till no dark trap was seen."]}, {"id": "A4.2.43", "lines": ["While night still held the garden in its gloom,", "The Arab lord walked unaware of doom."]}, {"id": "A4.2.44", "lines": ["As Mardas neared the hidden pit that day,", "His royal fortune turned and fell away."]}, {"id": "A4.2.45", "lines": ["His back was broken when he struck below,", "And death closed over Mardas, laid him low."]}, {"id": "A4.2.46", "lines": ["That noble king, through fortune good or bad,", "Had never spoken coldly to the lad."]}, {"id": "A4.2.47", "lines": ["He raised him tenderly through toil and care,", "Rejoiced in him and gave him treasure rare."]}, {"id": "A4.2.48", "lines": ["That shameless son, corrupted in his way,", "Cast every bond of kin and shame away."]}, {"id": "A4.2.49", "lines": ["He joined the plot his father’s blood to shed;", "I heard it from a sage of wisdom bred."]}, {"id": "A4.2.50", "lines": ["A wicked son, though lion-fierce and bold,", "From father’s blood will still his hand withhold."]}, {"id": "A4.2.51", "lines": ["If some dark secret lies behind the deed,", "Ask of the mother where the truth may lead."]}, {"id": "A4.2.52", "lines": ["Thus base Zahhak, unjust in heart and head,", "By this device assumed his father’s stead."]}, {"id": "A4.2.53", "lines": ["He wore the Arab crown in royal state,", "And dealt them gain and loss as ordered fate."]}, {"id": "A4.2.54", "lines": ["When Iblis saw his first design succeed,", "He joined its chain with yet another deed."]}, {"id": "A4.2.55", "lines": ["He said, “Since you have proved your pledge is true,", "The world’s desires have all come home to you."]}, {"id": "A4.2.56", "lines": ["If once again you pledge to follow me,", "And never turn from my command or flee,"]}, {"id": "A4.2.57", "lines": ["The whole world shall be yours beneath the sun;", "Beast, man, bird, fish shall serve you, every one.”"]}, {"id": "A4.2.58", "lines": ["So spoke Iblis, then changed his outward guise,", "And shaped a stranger scheme with cunning lies."]}, {"id": "A4.3.1", "lines": ["In youthful guise, well-spoken, clear of mind,", "Iblis approached, with flattering words refined."]}, {"id": "A4.3.2", "lines": ["He bowed before the king and praised his reign:", "“Let me prepare the dishes for your train.”"]}, {"id": "A4.3.3", "lines": ["Zahhak received him into royal care,", "And gave him leave to serve the monarch’s fare."]}, {"id": "A4.3.4", "lines": ["The steward gave him every kitchen key,", "And granted him full power by king’s decree."]}, {"id": "A4.3.5", "lines": ["In those first days, men fed on what they grew,", "No flesh was slain, no blood their hunger knew."]}, {"id": "A4.3.6", "lines": ["But Ahriman conceived a darker art;", "To change men’s nature, poison mind and heart."]}, {"id": "A4.3.7", "lines": ["He meant through food to alter human need,", "And plant a darker hunger in the breed."]}, {"id": "A4.3.8", "lines": ["He slaughtered beasts and birds that roamed the land,", "And dressed their flesh with an accomplished hand."]}, {"id": "A4.3.9", "lines": ["With blood he fed Zahhak to make him bold,", "Like some fierce lion nourished to take hold."]}, {"id": "A4.3.10", "lines": ["So every word the tempter chose with skill", "Might bind the king more firmly to his will."]}, {"id": "A4.3.11", "lines": ["The first day brought him yolks of eggs to eat,", "A strengthening dish, nourishing and sweet."]}, {"id": "A4.3.12", "lines": ["Zahhak ate well and praised the cook’s fine art,", "Its savor had already won his heart."]}, {"id": "A4.3.13", "lines": ["Iblis replied, “May joy attend your reign;", "Tomorrow richer pleasures you shall gain.”"]}, {"id": "A4.3.14", "lines": ["All night he thought what marvel he might bring,", "What new delight would captivate the king."]}, {"id": "A4.3.15", "lines": ["At dawn, as yellow ruby lit the blue,", "He brought the second banquet into view."]}, {"id": "A4.3.16", "lines": ["White pheasant, partridge, graced the royal plate,", "Prepared with subtle art for royal state."]}, {"id": "A4.3.17", "lines": ["The Arab king consumed the savory fare,", "And gave his foolish heart to the cook’s care."]}, {"id": "A4.3.18", "lines": ["The third day poultry, lamb were richly dressed,", "In varied dishes for the royal guest."]}, {"id": "A4.3.19", "lines": ["The fourth he served the back of tender veal,", "A young calf’s loin prepared to crown the meal."]}, {"id": "A4.3.20", "lines": ["With saffron, rosewater, and musk made fine,", "And richly flavored with well-aged red wine."]}, {"id": "A4.3.21", "lines": ["Zahhak, astonished by such mastery,", "Declared: “Ask now your due reward from me.”"]}, {"id": "A4.3.22", "lines": ["Iblis replied, “O king, forever reign;", "May joy and sovereign fortune still remain."]}, {"id": "A4.3.23", "lines": ["My heart is full of love for you alone;", "Your face gives nourishment my soul has known."]}, {"id": "A4.3.24", "lines": ["One boon I ask, though lowly is my place;", "Grant me this favor as a sign of grace."]}, {"id": "A4.3.25", "lines": ["Allow me both your shoulders to embrace,", "To kiss them, touch them with my eyes and face.”"]}, {"id": "A4.3.26", "lines": ["Zahhak discerned no trap, no hidden art,", "Nor guessed the evil in the tempter’s heart."]}, {"id": "A4.3.27", "lines": ["Off guard, the king replied without delay:", "“I grant your wish, come take it while you may.”"]}, {"id": "A4.3.28", "lines": ["He kissed the shoulders; then beneath the ground", "He vanished, and no trace of him was found."]}, {"id": "A4.3.29", "lines": ["No eye had witnessed such a fearful sight;", "Then horror rose from shoulders left and right."]}, {"id": "A4.3.30", "lines": ["From either shoulder, black and twisting, grew", "Two serpents, hideous to mortal view."]}, {"id": "A4.3.31", "lines": ["Distraught, Zahhak had both cut off with skill,", "But steel could not subdue the monstrous ill."]}, {"id": "A4.3.32", "lines": ["Just like two branches from a wounded tree,", "The black snakes rose again, alive and free."]}, {"id": "A4.3.33", "lines": ["The wisest healers gathered at his bed;", "Each gave the counsel that his learning bred."]}, {"id": "A4.3.34", "lines": ["They tried each remedy that art could frame,", "Yet all their cures were useless just the same."]}, {"id": "A4.3.35", "lines": ["At last Iblis returned in healer’s guise,", "And spoke with calm deceit within his eyes:"]}, {"id": "A4.3.36", "lines": ["“This fate,” he said, “was written by decree;", "Do not cut off the snakes; let them now be."]}, {"id": "A4.3.37", "lines": ["Let them remain; with food restrain their rage,", "And soothe them daily in their living cage."]}, {"id": "A4.3.38", "lines": ["Feed them with human brains from day to day;", "No other food will keep their rage at bay."]}, {"id": "A4.3.39", "lines": ["Perhaps in time, by this prescribed supply,", "The serpents themselves will weaken and die.”"]}, {"id": "A4.3.40", "lines": ["Now weigh the purpose hidden in this plan:", "What did the tempter seek from mortal man?"]}, {"id": "A4.3.41", "lines": ["Why name such food the cure their hunger needs?", "What deeper purpose lay beneath these deeds?"]}, {"id": "A4.3.42", "lines": ["Perhaps by feeding human brains as fare,", "He sought to thin mankind beyond repair."]}, {"id": "A4.3.43", "lines": ["Perhaps his hidden wish, through scheme and strife,", "Was that the earth be emptied of human life."]}, {"id": "A4.4.1", "lines": ["Then uproar rose through Iran far and wide,", "And war broke out on every troubled side."]}, {"id": "A4.4.2", "lines": ["The bright day darkened over Jamshid’s reign,", "And men broke faith with him throughout the plain."]}, {"id": "A4.4.3", "lines": ["His farr grew dark and slowly slipped away,", "As crookedness and folly marked his way."]}, {"id": "A4.4.4", "lines": ["On every side a claimant sought the crown;", "Each raised an army, casting Jamshid down."]}, {"id": "A4.4.5", "lines": ["From Iran, troop on troop took up the road", "Toward Arab lands to seek a king’s abode."]}, {"id": "A4.4.6", "lines": ["They heard that one in Arab lands was king,", "A dragon-visaged, dread, and savage thing."]}, {"id": "A4.4.7", "lines": ["So all the restless chiefs and riders bold", "Went forth to Zahhak, as the tales have told;"]}, {"id": "A4.4.8", "lines": ["They bowed before him, pledging their accord,", "And hailed him king, their sovereign and their lord."]}, {"id": "A4.4.9", "lines": ["The dragon-visaged king came sweeping on,", "And crowned himself as Jamshid’s strength was gone."]}, {"id": "A4.4.10", "lines": ["He gathered troops from every distant side,", "Iran and Arab forces stood allied."]}, {"id": "A4.4.11", "lines": ["His march assailed the throne that Jamshid held,", "And all his waning fortune was dispelled."]}, {"id": "A4.4.12", "lines": ["Hard-pressed by Zahhak, Jamshid turned and fled,", "And left the throne for Zahhak’s rule instead."]}, {"id": "A4.4.13", "lines": ["His crown, his throne, his diadem and gold,", "His army too; he left all he controlled."]}, {"id": "A4.4.14", "lines": ["The world went dark; Jamshid withdrew from sight,", "And lived concealed, a fugitive in flight."]}, {"id": "A4.4.15", "lines": ["A hundred years he lingered thus concealed,", "His fate by time and shifting fortune sealed."]}, {"id": "A4.4.16", "lines": ["But in the hundredth year he came in view", "Beside the Sea of Chin, where he withdrew."]}, {"id": "A4.4.17", "lines": ["Zahhak seized Jamshid, granting no delay,", "And sawed him end to end in halves that day."]}, {"id": "A4.4.18", "lines": ["Long from the dragon’s breath he kept concealed,", "Yet in the end his refuge was revealed."]}, {"id": "A4.4.19", "lines": ["Time drew his crown and throne from him like straw", "Drawn hard to amber by its hidden law."]}, {"id": "A4.4.20", "lines": ["What king was ever greater in his reign?", "But what remained from all his toil and pain?"]}, {"id": "A4.4.21", "lines": ["For seven hundred years his reign held fast,", "With good and evil mingled till the last."]}, {"id": "A4.4.22", "lines": ["Why seek long life within this world of change,", "Whose hidden ways no mortal mind can range?"]}, {"id": "A4.4.23", "lines": ["It feeds you honey, sweetness without end,", "And speaks so gently, seeming like a friend."]}, {"id": "A4.4.24", "lines": ["You think its heart has turned to you alone,", "And pride yourself on the love it has shown."]}, {"id": "A4.4.25", "lines": ["You trust the world and open all your heart,", "Confiding every secret, every part."]}, {"id": "A4.4.26", "lines": ["Then suddenly its treachery is plain,", "And fills your heart with blood and bitter pain."]}, {"id": "A4.4.27", "lines": ["My heart is weary of this passing place;", "O God, release me from its harsh embrace."]}]}, {"id": "A5", "title": "Zahhak’s Tyranny and the Uprising of Kaveh", "summary": "9 sections · 506 couplets", "path": "/poem/a5/", "couplets": [{"id": "A5.1.1", "lines": ["A thousand years Zahhak held power alone,", "And ruled the trembling world, its crown his own."]}, {"id": "A5.1.2", "lines": ["The age itself bent wholly to his will,", "And thus his long dominion ran on still."]}, {"id": "A5.1.3", "lines": ["The customs of the wise were hid from sight,", "While madmen’s wishes spread with growing might."]}, {"id": "A5.1.4", "lines": ["True virtue sank, while sorcery rose high;", "Truth hid, and harm walked plain to every eye."]}, {"id": "A5.1.5", "lines": ["The Divs reached out their hands on every side,", "While goodness spoke in whispers, forced to hide."]}, {"id": "A5.1.6", "lines": ["Two pure young women from Jamshid were led,", "Like willows trembling underneath their dread."]}, {"id": "A5.1.7", "lines": ["Both daughters of Jamshid, in beauty crowned,", "Above all women, peerless and renowned."]}, {"id": "A5.1.8", "lines": ["One, Shahrnaz, was veiled and passing fair;", "Chaste Arnavaz, her sister, formed the pair."]}, {"id": "A5.1.9", "lines": ["They bore them to Zahhak’s accursed hall,", "And gave them to the dragon-king in thrall."]}, {"id": "A5.1.10", "lines": ["He trained them in dark sorcery and guile,", "And taught their hearts to welcome all things vile."]}, {"id": "A5.1.11", "lines": ["For all he knew was evil’s crooked way:", "To kill, to burn, to plunder, and betray."]}, {"id": "A5.1.12", "lines": ["Each night two youths were taken for the deed,", "Whether low-born or Pahlevan by breed."]}, {"id": "A5.1.13", "lines": ["The cook would bear them to the royal hall,", "To feed the snakes that held Zahhak in thrall."]}, {"id": "A5.1.14", "lines": ["The cook then slew them, took each youthful brain,", "And fed the serpents to relieve their pain."]}, {"id": "A5.1.15", "lines": ["Then two pure men arose from royal line,", "Devout and worthy, joined in one design."]}, {"id": "A5.1.16", "lines": ["One, pure in faith, was Armayl by name;", "Farsighted Garmayl shared his noble aim."]}, {"id": "A5.1.17", "lines": ["One day together they discussed it all,", "From weighty matters down to details small."]}, {"id": "A5.1.18", "lines": ["They spoke of Zahhak’s bloody, cruel reign,", "And of the custom born from serpent pain."]}, {"id": "A5.1.19", "lines": ["One said: “We must approach the Shah with art,", "And enter as his cooks to play our part."]}, {"id": "A5.1.20", "lines": ["Once we are in, we shall devise a scheme,", "And test each thought that offers hope or dream."]}, {"id": "A5.1.21", "lines": ["Perhaps of every pair condemned to grave,", "At least one youthful life we still may save.”"]}, {"id": "A5.1.22", "lines": ["They learned the cook’s full craft with patient care,", "Each dish and measure mastered for the fare."]}, {"id": "A5.1.23", "lines": ["In secret then they won the full command", "Of Zahhak’s kitchen with a watchful hand."]}, {"id": "A5.1.24", "lines": ["When came the hour to kill the chosen two,", "The cooks prepared the bloody work they knew."]}, {"id": "A5.1.25", "lines": ["The murderous guards dragged in the youthful pair,", "And drove them toward the cooks in their despair."]}, {"id": "A5.1.26", "lines": ["They drove them forward, savage in their speed,", "Then cast them down to face the bloody deed."]}, {"id": "A5.1.27", "lines": ["The cooks’ hearts filled with pain, their eyes ran red;", "Their hatred for the tyrant fiercely spread."]}, {"id": "A5.1.28", "lines": ["They looked at one another, sick at heart,", "And cursed the tyrant’s vile and bloody art."]}, {"id": "A5.1.29", "lines": ["Of those two, one they killed; no means they knew", "To save them both from what they had to do."]}, {"id": "A5.1.30", "lines": ["They drew a sheep’s brain from its severed head,", "And mixed it with the brain of him they bled."]}, {"id": "A5.1.31", "lines": ["They spared the other: “Hide your head from sight;", "Guard well your life and vanish in the night."]}, {"id": "A5.1.32", "lines": ["Do not remain where settled cities stand;", "The plain and mountain shall become your land.”"]}, {"id": "A5.1.33", "lines": ["The sheep’s brain took the spared youth’s place inside,", "And fed the snakes while truth remained denied."]}, {"id": "A5.1.34", "lines": ["Each month they saved from slaughter thirty more,", "And sent them out across the desert floor."]}, {"id": "A5.1.35", "lines": ["When two full hundred had escaped their fate,", "They kept them hidden past the city gate."]}, {"id": "A5.1.36", "lines": ["They gave them goats and sheep to earn their bread,", "Then sent them where the open pastures spread."]}, {"id": "A5.1.37", "lines": ["From that same stock the Kurdish tribes descend;", "Their hearts toward settled cities do not bend."]}, {"id": "A5.1.38", "lines": ["Such was Zahhak’s inverted law and way:", "He followed every cruel whim each day."]}, {"id": "A5.1.39", "lines": ["He chose a fighting man when whim arose,", "And sent him forth to perish by his foes."]}, {"id": "A5.1.40", "lines": ["If some renowned and lovely maiden bright", "Lived chastely veiled and hidden from men’s sight,"]}, {"id": "A5.1.41", "lines": ["He made her serve his pleasure at his side,", "With neither royal law nor faith his guide."]}, {"id": "A5.2.1", "lines": ["When forty years remained of Zahhak’s reign,", "Observe how God prepared his mortal bane."]}, {"id": "A5.2.2", "lines": ["He slept one night beside Arnavaz fair,", "When dark foreboding filled the midnight air."]}, {"id": "A5.2.3", "lines": ["He dreamed that three armed warriors appeared,", "Within the royal palace, fierce and feared."]}, {"id": "A5.2.4", "lines": ["Two elder men, a younger one between,", "Cypress-tall, royal farr upon his mien."]}, {"id": "A5.2.5", "lines": ["He girded like a king and took his stand,", "An ox-head gorz held ready in his hand."]}, {"id": "A5.2.6", "lines": ["He rushed on Zahhak, fierce in his attack,", "And struck the tyrant with a crushing crack."]}, {"id": "A5.2.7", "lines": ["From head to foot he drew a leather thong,", "And mastered him who once had seemed so strong."]}, {"id": "A5.2.8", "lines": ["With that same binding he secured his hands,", "And broke the pride that ruled so many lands."]}, {"id": "A5.2.9", "lines": ["A halter then he fastened round his neck,", "And dragged him forth, his royal pride in wreck."]}, {"id": "A5.2.10", "lines": ["Toward Mount Damavand the warriors sped,", "And dragged the humbled tyrant as they led."]}, {"id": "A5.2.11", "lines": ["The lawless Zahhak writhed beneath the strain;", "It seemed his very liver split with pain."]}, {"id": "A5.2.12", "lines": ["He screamed so loudly in his troubled sleep,", "His hundred-columned palace shook full deep."]}, {"id": "A5.2.13", "lines": ["The sun-faced women sprang up from their place,", "Alarmed by cries that filled the royal space."]}, {"id": "A5.2.14", "lines": ["Arnavaz spoke: “O king, why this dismay?", "What dream has torn your peaceful sleep away?"]}, {"id": "A5.2.15", "lines": ["You slept in peace within your royal hall;", "What threat to life could make you cry at all?"]}, {"id": "A5.2.16", "lines": ["The Seven Climes obey your royal hand;", "Beast, herd, and humankind heed your command.”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.17", "lines": ["He answered: “Such a dream should hidden stay;", "Its fearful secret I will not convey."]}, {"id": "A5.2.18", "lines": ["For if I tell the vision I endured,", "You will lose hope my life can be secured.”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.19", "lines": ["Arnavaz replied: “Let truth become clear;", "You must unfold the secret of your fear."]}, {"id": "A5.2.20", "lines": ["Perhaps some remedy may yet be made known;", "Some cure for every evil can be shown.”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.21", "lines": ["The king then told his vision, one by one,", "And hid no part of what the dream had done."]}, {"id": "A5.2.22", "lines": ["She said: “Do not abandon this to fear;", "Seek out the remedy and make it clear."]}, {"id": "A5.2.23", "lines": ["The age’s signet crowns your royal seat,", "And fortune lays the whole world at your feet."]}, {"id": "A5.2.24", "lines": ["The world lies wholly underneath your ring;", "Beast, man, bird, Div, and pari serve the king."]}, {"id": "A5.2.25", "lines": ["From every land assemble men of fame,", "Star-readers, sorcerers, wise in craft and name."]}, {"id": "A5.2.26", "lines": ["Reveal the dream to Mobadan, and learn", "The truth through wisdom that they may discern."]}, {"id": "A5.2.27", "lines": ["Learn whose hand holds the ending of your breath:", "A human, Div, or pari bringing death."]}, {"id": "A5.2.28", "lines": ["Once this is known, devise the remedy;", "Let groundless fear not make your courage flee.”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.29", "lines": ["Her counsel pleased the proud and mighty king;", "Night black as raven’s feathers spread its wing."]}, {"id": "A5.2.30", "lines": ["Then at once a lamp rose from the height,", "And crowned the mountain with returning light."]}, {"id": "A5.2.31", "lines": ["Across the lapis dome the rising sun", "Spread yellow ruby when the night was done."]}, {"id": "A5.2.32", "lines": ["Wherever lived a Mobad wise and clear,", "Wakeful of heart, he summoned each one near."]}, {"id": "A5.2.33", "lines": ["From every land they gathered at his call,", "And Zahhak told the dream before them all."]}, {"id": "A5.2.34", "lines": ["He laid before them what had long been sealed,", "Of good and evil and what time revealed."]}, {"id": "A5.2.35", "lines": ["“When will the measure of my lifetime end?", "To whom shall crown and girdle then descend?"]}, {"id": "A5.2.36", "lines": ["You must reveal this secret as it stands,", "Though shame and ruin fall upon my hands.”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.37", "lines": ["Mobadan lips went dry, their faces wet;", "They whispered, trapped within the tyrant’s net:"]}, {"id": "A5.2.38", "lines": ["“If we speak truth, we risk the tyrant’s blade;", "If we speak false, the same price must be paid."]}, {"id": "A5.2.39", "lines": ["If what must happen is not plainly said,", "We still must pay tonight with life instead.”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.40", "lines": ["So none dared speak, and three long days passed by,", "While dread hung over them like darkening sky."]}, {"id": "A5.2.41", "lines": ["On the fourth day the king in fury spoke:", "“Speak now, or all shall perish at a stroke!"]}, {"id": "A5.2.42", "lines": ["Reveal what fate has written while you breathe,", "Or from the gallows you shall hang beneath!”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.43", "lines": ["The Mobadan bowed low beneath his frown,", "Their hearts full of fear, blood-filled eyes cast down."]}, {"id": "A5.2.44", "lines": ["Among those men one saw with keenest sight,", "Sharp-eared and watchful, judging wrong from right."]}, {"id": "A5.2.45", "lines": ["Wise, wakeful, Zirak was that Mobad’s name;", "Among them all he stood the first in fame."]}, {"id": "A5.2.46", "lines": ["His heart grew tight, yet boldness conquered fear;", "He opened up his tongue for Zahhak’s ear."]}, {"id": "A5.2.47", "lines": ["“Empty your head of vanity,” he said;", "“No child is born except to join the dead."]}, {"id": "A5.2.48", "lines": ["Before you many kings have worn this crown,", "And bore their joy and grief, then lost renown."]}, {"id": "A5.2.49", "lines": ["They counted grief and pleasure in their day,", "Then left the world to others and to clay."]}, {"id": "A5.2.50", "lines": ["Though in an iron fortress you should stay,", "The turning heavens wear its strength away."]}, {"id": "A5.2.51", "lines": ["Another after you shall take your throne,", "And cast your head and fortune down to stone."]}, {"id": "A5.2.52", "lines": ["His name is Fereydoon, born to command;", "Beneath his rule shall prosper every land."]}, {"id": "A5.2.53", "lines": ["Not yet has that great prince been born today;", "His destined hour has not yet come your way."]}, {"id": "A5.2.54", "lines": ["Born of a noble mother, skilled and wise,", "Like some fruit-bearing tree he soon shall rise."]}, {"id": "A5.2.55", "lines": ["To manhood grown, his head shall reach the moon;", "The crown and throne shall be his destined boon."]}, {"id": "A5.2.56", "lines": ["The royal cap shall mark his kingly claim;", "A steel ox-headed gorz shall arm his frame."]}, {"id": "A5.2.57", "lines": ["That ox-head gorz shall strike you in the fray,", "Then he shall bind and drag you far away."]}, {"id": "A5.2.58", "lines": ["In bonds he shall lead you from palace gate,", "And drag you through the street in humbled state.”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.59", "lines": ["Zahhak replied: “Why will he bind me so?", "What grievance makes him rise to be my foe?”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.60", "lines": ["Zirak replied: “If wisdom guides your eye,", "No man does evil without reason why."]}, {"id": "A5.2.61", "lines": ["His father’s life shall perish by your hand;", "Revenge will drive him forth at fate’s command."]}, {"id": "A5.2.62", "lines": ["A cow named Barmayeh shall nurse the child,", "And guard the world-seeker, tender and mild."]}, {"id": "A5.2.63", "lines": ["That cow as well shall perish by your blow;", "For both these wrongs his gorz shall lay you low.”"]}, {"id": "A5.2.64", "lines": ["Zahhak gave ear to Zirak’s fateful word,", "Then toppled from the throne at what he heard."]}, {"id": "A5.2.65", "lines": ["The noble Mobad turned from throne and king,", "In fear of what such truthful words might bring."]}, {"id": "A5.2.66", "lines": ["When sense returned, Zahhak rose from the floor,", "And set his foot where kings had stood before."]}, {"id": "A5.2.67", "lines": ["Through all the world for Fereydoon he pressed,", "By open search and secret, without rest."]}, {"id": "A5.2.68", "lines": ["No rest, no sleep, no food could bring him ease;", "His bright day darkened under fate’s decrees."]}, {"id": "A5.3.1", "lines": ["The years passed on, calamity drew near", "The dragon-king, whose days dragged on in fear."]}, {"id": "A5.3.2", "lines": ["Then Fereydoon was born, and from that hour", "The rosebud of the world began to flower."]}, {"id": "A5.3.3", "lines": ["Tall as a cypress, heir of Jamshid’s race,", "He bore the farr of kings upon his face."]}, {"id": "A5.3.4", "lines": ["The royal splendor Jamshid once had worn", "In him returned, renewed and newly born."]}, {"id": "A5.3.5", "lines": ["More welcome than the sun, more prized than rain,", "As fit for man as knowledge fits the brain."]}, {"id": "A5.3.6", "lines": ["The turning heavens loved him from the start,", "And held him dear within their secret heart."]}, {"id": "A5.3.7", "lines": ["A wondrous cow, Barmayeh, grazed the plain,", "The finest cattle found in that domain."]}, {"id": "A5.3.8", "lines": ["Each hair upon her hide a color bore,", "Like peacock plumes no eye had seen before."]}, {"id": "A5.3.9", "lines": ["Wise men, star-readers, Mobadan met round;", "No equal to this creature could be found."]}, {"id": "A5.3.10", "lines": ["Meanwhile Zahhak searched on, year after year,", "And filled the world with turmoil through his fear."]}, {"id": "A5.3.11", "lines": ["Fereydoon’s father, Abtin, good and true,", "Found all the earth grow narrow as fear grew."]}, {"id": "A5.3.12", "lines": ["He fled from place to place to save his breath,", "Till Zahhak’s guards came on him, armed for death."]}, {"id": "A5.3.13", "lines": ["They seized and bound him like a leopard fast,", "And dragged him off; his freedom now was past."]}, {"id": "A5.3.14", "lines": ["Before Zahhak they brought the captive man,", "And then the tyrant ended Abtin’s span."]}, {"id": "A5.3.15", "lines": ["When Faranak, his wise and faithful wife,", "Beheld the ruin of her husband’s life,"]}, {"id": "A5.3.16", "lines": ["She fled in grief when Abtin’s days were done;", "Her heart was filled with love for her young son."]}, {"id": "A5.3.17", "lines": ["She sought the meadow where Barmayeh fed,", "And wept before the herdsman as she said:"]}, {"id": "A5.3.18", "lines": ["“Protect this nursing child and keep him near;", "Receive him as a father; hold him dear."]}, {"id": "A5.3.19", "lines": ["Nourish my son on Barmayeh’s rich flow,", "And guard the child wherever he may go."]}, {"id": "A5.3.20", "lines": ["If payment you desire, my life I give;", "Ask what you will; only let my child live.”"]}, {"id": "A5.3.21", "lines": ["The herdsman said, “Your wish shall be obeyed;", "Like one who serves your son, I pledge my aid.”"]}, {"id": "A5.3.22", "lines": ["She left her infant son within his care;", "He was to guard the child from every snare."]}, {"id": "A5.3.23", "lines": ["That guardian, a faithful and loving soul,", "Sustained the child on milk that made him whole."]}, {"id": "A5.3.24", "lines": ["For three long years the boy in safety grew,", "On Barmayeh’s milk, safe from Zahhak’s view."]}, {"id": "A5.3.25", "lines": ["But Zahhak never ceased his ruthless quest,", "And rumor’s voice disturbed his cursed rest."]}, {"id": "A5.3.26", "lines": ["The tale of that rare cow had reached the king,", "And Faranak felt dread’s returning sting."]}, {"id": "A5.3.27", "lines": ["She came again: “A thought from God through sense", "Has come to me, of consequence immense."]}, {"id": "A5.3.28", "lines": ["My child and my sweet life are wholly one;", "We must erase all trace and save my son."]}, {"id": "A5.3.29", "lines": ["This land of sorcerers I now must flee;", "No trace of child or mother must they see."]}, {"id": "A5.3.30", "lines": ["To Hind I will go, and withdraw from sight;", "Then Mount Alborz shall hide him from their might.”"]}, {"id": "A5.3.31", "lines": ["She bore the child away in dead of night,", "As quick as any bird that takes to flight."]}, {"id": "A5.3.32", "lines": ["Upon Alborz a holy man had made", "His dwelling, far from worldly toil and trade."]}, {"id": "A5.3.33", "lines": ["To him she said: “O man of sacred way,", "A grieving mother stands by you today."]}, {"id": "A5.3.34", "lines": ["This precious child shall lead the world one day,", "And bring Zahhak’s dark kingship to decay."]}, {"id": "A5.3.35", "lines": ["He shall cast the tyrant’s crown and power low,", "And strip the royal girdle from his foe."]}, {"id": "A5.3.36", "lines": ["Take him and raise him as a father would,", "And guard his life with all a father should.”"]}, {"id": "A5.3.37", "lines": ["The holy man drew him to his embrace;", "No harsh word darkened Fereydoon’s young face."]}, {"id": "A5.3.38", "lines": ["He guarded him, a father true and wise,", "And kept him safe beneath the mountain skies."]}, {"id": "A5.3.39", "lines": ["When Zahhak learned where Barmayeh had fed", "The child, his wrath rose hot within his head."]}, {"id": "A5.3.40", "lines": ["Like a mad elephant he charged in wrath,", "And slaughter followed hard along his path."]}, {"id": "A5.3.41", "lines": ["Barmayeh fell beneath his murderous hand,", "The wondrous cow he sought throughout the land."]}, {"id": "A5.3.42", "lines": ["He killed each beast that his mad eyes could see,", "Until no living cattle wandered free."]}, {"id": "A5.3.43", "lines": ["He searched Fereydoon’s house from room to room,", "But found no trace of him within the gloom."]}, {"id": "A5.3.44", "lines": ["He set the lofty eyvan all aflame,", "And fire consumed the hall’s imposing frame."]}, {"id": "A5.3.45", "lines": ["He brought the lofty palace to the ground,", "And ruin spread through all the lands around."]}, {"id": "A5.4.1", "lines": ["When twice eight years had passed, the prince drew near,", "Descending Alborz to the meadow clear."]}, {"id": "A5.4.2", "lines": ["He sought his mother on the open plain,", "And asked the question he could not contain:"]}, {"id": "A5.4.3", "lines": ["“Reveal the truth: what was my father’s name?", "What blood is mine, what house, what line, what fame?"]}, {"id": "A5.4.4", "lines": ["What shall I say, when men would ask, what clan?", "Tell me my lineage, all that you can.”"]}, {"id": "A5.4.5", "lines": ["She said: “My son, I will not hide from you,", "The tale I tell is bitter, hard, and true."]}, {"id": "A5.4.6", "lines": ["Your father, Abtin, lived in Iran’s land,", "Of Kayanian stock, noble and grand."]}, {"id": "A5.4.7", "lines": ["From Tahmuras his noble bloodline came;", "A warrior wise, gentle, free from blame."]}, {"id": "A5.4.8", "lines": ["He was your father and my husband dear;", "Through him alone my day shone bright and clear."]}, {"id": "A5.4.9", "lines": ["Zahhak the sorcerer sought out your breath;", "Across Iran his hand reached for your death."]}, {"id": "A5.4.10", "lines": ["I hid you from his sight and bore the strain;", "Through bitter days I wandered deep in pain."]}, {"id": "A5.4.11", "lines": ["Your noble father, young and bright of soul,", "Gave up his life that yours might yet be whole."]}, {"id": "A5.4.12", "lines": ["Two serpents on Zahhak’s shoulders were fed,", "And ravaged Iran while their hunger spread."]}, {"id": "A5.4.13", "lines": ["Your father’s brain was torn from him that day,", "And to the hungry serpents cast as prey."]}, {"id": "A5.4.14", "lines": ["At last I found a meadow hid from view,", "A secret refuge Zahhak never knew."]}, {"id": "A5.4.15", "lines": ["There Barmayeh stood, bright as spring in hue,", "Each hair upon her hide a color new."]}, {"id": "A5.4.16", "lines": ["A watchful herdsman guarded her nearby,", "And kept that hidden pasture from the eye."]}, {"id": "A5.4.17", "lines": ["I placed you in his care and went away;", "Barmayeh’s milk sustained you day by day."]}, {"id": "A5.4.18", "lines": ["Peacock-hued Barmayeh your strength supplied;", "You grew like a bold leopard at her side."]}, {"id": "A5.4.19", "lines": ["At last the news of meadow and of cow", "Reached Zahhak’s court; I dared not linger now."]}, {"id": "A5.4.20", "lines": ["I took you from the forest, fled, and tore", "From eyvan, home, and all I knew before."]}, {"id": "A5.4.21", "lines": ["He came and slew Barmayeh, nurse so mild,", "The cow whose milk had nourished you, my child."]}, {"id": "A5.4.22", "lines": ["From eyvan to the sun he raised the dust;", "He turned that height to pit with savage thrust.”"]}, {"id": "A5.4.23", "lines": ["The prince grew fierce at all that he had heard,", "His heart inflamed, his thoughts to vengeance stirred."]}, {"id": "A5.4.24", "lines": ["With knitted brow and voice made sharp with pain,", "He spoke of wrath he could no more restrain:"]}, {"id": "A5.4.25", "lines": ["“A lion proves his courage through the test;", "I too must prove the fire within my breast."]}, {"id": "A5.4.26", "lines": ["This sorcerer has done the harm he planned;", "Now I must take the sword into my hand."]}, {"id": "A5.4.27", "lines": ["By God’s pure command I shall rise and go,", "And raise dust from his eyvan, bring it low.”"]}, {"id": "A5.4.28", "lines": ["She said: “My son, this counsel is not wise;", "Against the whole world you cannot arise."]}, {"id": "A5.4.29", "lines": ["Zahhak still holds the royal throne and crown,", "And armies girded for him gather round."]}, {"id": "A5.4.30", "lines": ["When he commands, from every realm and land", "A hundred thousand gird themselves and stand."]}, {"id": "A5.4.31", "lines": ["Such is no proper course for blood’s redress;", "Do not let youthful sight make wisdom less."]}, {"id": "A5.4.32", "lines": ["Who drinks youth’s wine sees none but self; his mind", "Holds the whole world beneath his throne confined."]}, {"id": "A5.4.33", "lines": ["Drunk with youth’s wine, he casts his head to air,", "And pride outruns both judgment and all care."]}, {"id": "A5.4.34", "lines": ["May all your days be fortunate and bright;", "May joy attend you and your path be right."]}, {"id": "A5.4.35", "lines": ["Remember, son, the counsel I impart;", "Beside your mother’s words, take none to heart.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.1", "lines": ["Zahhak would speak Fereydoon’s name with dread;", "Its echo never ceased within his head."]}, {"id": "A5.5.2", "lines": ["His stature bent beneath that inward strain,", "A king in form, yet captive to his pain."]}, {"id": "A5.5.3", "lines": ["One day he sat upon his ivory throne,", "With turquoise crown, those serpents fully grown."]}, {"id": "A5.5.4", "lines": ["He summoned chiefs from every land afar,", "To brace his tottering rule with bolt and bar."]}, {"id": "A5.5.5", "lines": ["“O wise and noble lords,” Zahhak began,", "“A hidden foe pursues me: find the man."]}, {"id": "A5.5.6", "lines": ["Though young in years, this foe is wise and keen;", "No common youth like him has yet been seen."]}, {"id": "A5.5.7", "lines": ["His numbers may be few, his forces slight;", "A little foe neglected gathers might."]}, {"id": "A5.5.8", "lines": ["Though weak he seems, I do not doubt his rise;", "I fear what fate may bring before my eyes."]}, {"id": "A5.5.9", "lines": ["I need more troops, a greater force arrayed", "Of fearless men and Divs and paris made."]}, {"id": "A5.5.10", "lines": ["Now sign this scroll and bear your witness clear:", "Our king acts justly, righteous and sincere.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.11", "lines": ["The scroll declared: “I sow no evil seed;", "I never turn from justice in my deed."]}, {"id": "A5.5.12", "lines": ["I speak but truth, a king who tells no lies.”", "Too cowed with fear to answer or advise,"]}, {"id": "A5.5.13", "lines": ["Their hands obeyed, their hearts refused assent;", "They signed the scroll, but none believed its intent."]}, {"id": "A5.5.14", "lines": ["Then from outside the palace gate there came", "A voice that cried aloud in grief and blame."]}, {"id": "A5.5.15", "lines": ["They brought the man before the kingly seat,", "The silent nobles staring at their feet."]}, {"id": "A5.5.16", "lines": ["Zahhak in anger said, “Now speak your claim!", "Who wronged you so? Declare to me his name.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.17", "lines": ["The man beat on his head before them all,", "His fury shaking that unjust king’s hall:"]}, {"id": "A5.5.18", "lines": ["“My name is Kaveh! I demand my right;", "I come in grief, compelled by bitter plight."]}, {"id": "A5.5.19", "lines": ["If justice lives, then let it here be shown;", "A righteous act will strengthen every throne."]}, {"id": "A5.5.20", "lines": ["I have endured oppression at your hand;", "My heart is pierced by deeds none should withstand."]}, {"id": "A5.5.21", "lines": ["If such injustice springs not from your will,", "Why drag my son away from me to kill?"]}, {"id": "A5.5.22", "lines": ["I once had sons; eighteen in number born;", "Now one remains, the rest from me are torn."]}, {"id": "A5.5.23", "lines": ["Have mercy! Witness now the grief I bear,", "My soul is full of sorrow past repair."]}, {"id": "A5.5.24", "lines": ["If I have sinned, then let the charge be known;", "But spare the guiltless! Leave my boy alone!"]}, {"id": "A5.5.25", "lines": ["My back is bent with age and heavy care,", "My youth is spent, my life stripped almost bare."]}, {"id": "A5.5.26", "lines": ["No bond is closer than a child to man,", "Yet all are lost by this destructive plan."]}, {"id": "A5.5.27", "lines": ["Oppression has a measure, start and end;", "What cause have you such cruelty to defend?"]}, {"id": "A5.5.28", "lines": ["A harmless smith am I, who works for bread;", "Yet from the Shah fire falls upon my head."]}, {"id": "A5.5.29", "lines": ["If Seven Climes acknowledge you as king,", "Why does our grief increase beneath your ring?"]}, {"id": "A5.5.30", "lines": ["If all the world must bow before your power,", "Why must the hardship crush us hour by hour?"]}, {"id": "A5.5.31", "lines": ["You still must answer what must be most just,", "Though everything lies crushed beneath your dust."]}, {"id": "A5.5.32", "lines": ["Between us now accounts remain unpaid;", "The truth will stand though all the world be swayed."]}, {"id": "A5.5.33", "lines": ["Now set the reckoning before us all;", "Let every man hear justice in this hall."]}, {"id": "A5.5.34", "lines": ["Of all who live beneath the turning sky,", "Why must my sons be chosen still to die?"]}, {"id": "A5.5.35", "lines": ["Why does the turn fall always on my door,", "To feed your serpents with the sons I bore?"]}, {"id": "A5.5.36", "lines": ["My sons as well your serpents’ maws have fed;", "Must I be bled till all my house is dead?”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.37", "lines": ["The monarch heard and marveled at his tone;", "Such words had rarely pierced the guarded throne."]}, {"id": "A5.5.38", "lines": ["He freed the son and tried with measured speech", "To calm the father, soften grief’s sharp reach."]}, {"id": "A5.5.39", "lines": ["They brought his son and sought to make amends;", "Zahhak spoke softly, as if they were friends."]}, {"id": "A5.5.40", "lines": ["But when he urged him sign the scroll with all,", "Kaveh read through and raised a furious call:"]}, {"id": "A5.5.41", "lines": ["“You pillars of the Divs, corrupted here,", "Your hearts have lost the World-Creator’s fear."]}, {"id": "A5.5.42", "lines": ["You turned your faces toward the road of hell;", "On Zahhak’s words your captive spirits dwell."]}, {"id": "A5.5.43", "lines": ["I will not sign, nor bow to such a lord,", "Nor lend my name to prop a reign abhorred.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.44", "lines": ["He tore the lying scroll from end to end,", "Then trampled it, too furious to bend."]}, {"id": "A5.5.45", "lines": ["With son before him, fierce in wrath and cry,", "He thundered from the court with head held high."]}, {"id": "A5.5.46", "lines": ["The courtiers asked the king with anxious breath:", "“May heaven guard your throne from harm and death."]}, {"id": "A5.5.47", "lines": ["Why was this man admitted to your side?", "He shamed your court, then turned and left in pride."]}, {"id": "A5.5.48", "lines": ["He tore your pledge and cast your words aside,", "Then left as though with Fereydoon allied."]}, {"id": "A5.5.49", "lines": ["He spoke before you as an equal man,", "And shattered what your own command began.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.50", "lines": ["The king replied, “A strange and troubling sight:", "When first he spoke, I felt a sudden fright."]}, {"id": "A5.5.51", "lines": ["Between us rose an iron mountain high,", "Within the eyvan, looming toward the sky."]}, {"id": "A5.5.52", "lines": ["It towered between us, iron-hard and vast;", "My courage failed before the shade it cast."]}, {"id": "A5.5.53", "lines": ["When both his hands struck hard upon his head,", "Something within me broke; my heart knew dread."]}, {"id": "A5.5.54", "lines": ["My strength went out; no answer could I find,", "As though his cry had struck my heart and mind."]}, {"id": "A5.5.55", "lines": ["What end awaits I cannot clearly know;", "The secrets of the heavens none can show.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.56", "lines": ["When Kaveh left, the market roared aloud,", "And men surged in to form a swelling crowd."]}, {"id": "A5.5.57", "lines": ["He raised his voice and called on all to rise,", "To stand as one against the tyrant’s lies."]}, {"id": "A5.5.58", "lines": ["He seized his apron, blackened, rough, and worn,", "And raised it on a spear, though poor and torn."]}, {"id": "A5.5.59", "lines": ["He raised it high and strode the market way,", "While dust rose thick and swallowed up the day."]}, {"id": "A5.5.60", "lines": ["He cried, “O men of name who worship God,", "Cast off his chains and break the tyrant’s rod!"]}, {"id": "A5.5.61", "lines": ["Let those who seek release from chains of pain", "Now gather round Fereydoon upon the plain."]}, {"id": "A5.5.62", "lines": ["Come all together, rally to his side;", "Beneath his royal farr let hope abide."]}, {"id": "A5.5.63", "lines": ["This king is Ahriman upon the throne,", "His serpent-fed injustice widely known."]}, {"id": "A5.5.64", "lines": ["Within his heart the World-Creator’s foe", "Has made his home and filled the world with woe.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.65", "lines": ["That simple leather, rough and poor to see,", "Became the sign of truth and loyalty."]}, {"id": "A5.5.66", "lines": ["Around him gathered many, bold and strong,", "Resolved no more to bear the tyrant’s wrong."]}, {"id": "A5.5.67", "lines": ["Kaveh knew well where Fereydoon would stay;", "He led the swelling multitude that way."]}, {"id": "A5.5.68", "lines": ["He led them forth and toward Fereydoon came,", "And cries of welcome rang to greet his name."]}, {"id": "A5.5.69", "lines": ["The young prince saw the banner and its sign,", "And read within it heaven’s clear design."]}, {"id": "A5.5.70", "lines": ["He dressed it then in Roman brocade bright,", "With jewels and gold that flashed against the light."]}, {"id": "A5.5.71", "lines": ["Red, yellow streamers, others violet-dyed;", "Their jeweled tassels fell from either side."]}, {"id": "A5.5.72", "lines": ["He gave the standard its enduring name:", "Derafsh-e Kaviani rose to fame."]}, {"id": "A5.5.73", "lines": ["Thereafter every king who gained the crown", "Added new jewels to its old renown."]}, {"id": "A5.5.74", "lines": ["Fine brocade and treasure decked its fold,", "The once-poor leather bright beneath the gold."]}, {"id": "A5.5.75", "lines": ["It shone like sunlight through the darkest night,", "It filled the world’s heart with new hope and light."]}, {"id": "A5.5.76", "lines": ["What once was leather, cast aside and worn,", "Became a blazing sign of glory born."]}, {"id": "A5.5.77", "lines": ["When Fereydoon saw Zahhak’s world was lost,", "He girded for the fight at any cost."]}, {"id": "A5.5.78", "lines": ["He placed the Kay cap firmly on his head,", "Then sought his mother, Faranak, and said:"]}, {"id": "A5.5.79", "lines": ["“I go to battle; prayer is yours to give;", "Ask God to guard me so that I may live."]}, {"id": "A5.5.80", "lines": ["All strength for goodness comes from God alone;", "By His command the path of right is shown.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.81", "lines": ["Tears from Faranak’s lashes fell like rain;", "Her heart ran blood with mingled fear and pain."]}, {"id": "A5.5.82", "lines": ["She raised her tearful eyes and called in prayer:", "“O God, receive my son into Your care."]}, {"id": "A5.5.83", "lines": ["Turn every sorcerer’s evil hand aside,", "And let no dark enchantment reach his side."]}, {"id": "A5.5.84", "lines": ["To You I give my son with all my heart;", "Preserve his life from every evil art.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.85", "lines": ["She prayed He cleanse the world of foolish ways,", "And end the senseless evil of their days."]}, {"id": "A5.5.86", "lines": ["Then Fereydoon prepared himself to go,", "But kept his purpose hidden from the foe."]}, {"id": "A5.5.87", "lines": ["He told no one the road that he would take,", "And guarded every word for caution’s sake."]}, {"id": "A5.5.88", "lines": ["He called his elder brothers to his side;", "Kianush, Parmayeh, his strength and pride."]}, {"id": "A5.5.89", "lines": ["Both brothers, noble-born, were blessed that day,", "Fereydoon addressed them without delay."]}, {"id": "A5.5.90", "lines": ["“Be glad and bold; the heavens turn our way;", "The crown of greatness soon shall come to stay."]}, {"id": "A5.5.91", "lines": ["Now bring me smiths who know the forge and flame;", "I need a heavy gorz to end this shame.”"]}, {"id": "A5.5.92", "lines": ["The brothers hurried to the smiths’ bazaar;", "They summoned masters skilled in forge and bar."]}, {"id": "A5.5.93", "lines": ["Renowned smiths gathered at the prince’s call;", "The finest craftsmen stood before his hall."]}, {"id": "A5.5.94", "lines": ["With compass Fereydoon drew on the ground", "An ox-head gorz, broad-horned and iron-bound."]}, {"id": "A5.5.95", "lines": ["The smiths obeyed and forged the gorz entire;", "It shone like the high sun, not earthly fire."]}, {"id": "A5.5.96", "lines": ["He gave them robes, and silver, gold besides,", "And praised the skill that in their craft resides."]}, {"id": "A5.5.97", "lines": ["“When I cast down the Dragon to the ground,", "No dust of grief shall on your heads be found."]}, {"id": "A5.5.98", "lines": ["For justice will prevail, and right be won,", "And truth will rise to greet the coming sun.”"]}, {"id": "A5.6.1", "lines": ["Fereydoon then raised his head toward the sun,", "And girded for the vengeance now begun."]}, {"id": "A5.6.2", "lines": ["On Khordad’s day he joyfully made way,", "Beneath a favored star and omen’s ray."]}, {"id": "A5.6.3", "lines": ["The army gathered round him in a crowd,", "His royal station rose into the cloud."]}, {"id": "A5.6.4", "lines": ["On elephants and buffaloes in train,", "Provisions moved ahead across the plain."]}, {"id": "A5.6.5", "lines": ["Beside him rode his brothers, true allied,", "Kianush and Parmayeh at his side."]}, {"id": "A5.6.6", "lines": ["From stage to stage like driving wind he sped,", "And thoughts of vengeance burned within his head."]}, {"id": "A5.6.7", "lines": ["He turned at last where Arvand’s waters glide,", "And sought the royal crown with swelling pride."]}, {"id": "A5.6.8", "lines": ["If Pahlavi speech is not known to you,", "The Arabs call the Arvand “Dijla” too."]}, {"id": "A5.6.9", "lines": ["His next halt lay beside the Dijla’s strand,", "Near Baghdad, where he camped upon the land."]}, {"id": "A5.6.10", "lines": ["When near the Arvand’s bank the leader drew,", "He sent the river-keepers greeting due."]}, {"id": "A5.6.11", "lines": ["“Prepare the ships at once,” the victor cried,", "“And set them on the current, side by side."]}, {"id": "A5.6.12", "lines": ["Take me and all my army to the strand;", "Let none remain behind upon this land."]}, {"id": "A5.6.13", "lines": ["Make haste by ship and skiff to leave this shore;", "We all must gain the bank that lies before.”"]}, {"id": "A5.6.14", "lines": ["The river-keeper brought no vessel near,", "Nor bent before the prince or showed him fear."]}, {"id": "A5.6.15", "lines": ["He said, “The ruler gave me orders plain,", "And spoke them privately: I must refrain."]}, {"id": "A5.6.16", "lines": ["Not even one mosquito may go by", "Without the ruler’s seal before my eye.”"]}, {"id": "A5.6.17", "lines": ["Fereydoon heard; his anger rose in flame;", "No depth of river could deter his aim."]}, {"id": "A5.6.18", "lines": ["He bound the Kayanian girdle tight,", "Then mounted his swift charger for the flight."]}, {"id": "A5.6.19", "lines": ["His mind was bent on vengeance and the fray;", "He drove his charger through the river spray."]}, {"id": "A5.6.20", "lines": ["His comrades girded up and followed fast,", "And plunged into the current as he passed."]}, {"id": "A5.6.21", "lines": ["Their wind-foot steeds sank saddle-deep in tide;", "The rushing water rose on either side."]}, {"id": "A5.6.22", "lines": ["They gained dry ground, still seeking vengeance due;", "Toward Bait al-Muqaddas then they drew."]}, {"id": "A5.6.23", "lines": ["In Pahlavi they named that place this way:", "Gang Dezh-Hokht, as the ancient records say."]}, {"id": "A5.6.24", "lines": ["In Arabic, the Holy House was known;", "There Zahhak raised his eyvan and his throne."]}, {"id": "A5.6.25", "lines": ["Across the plain they neared the sought-for town,", "The city where the tyrant held the crown."]}, {"id": "A5.6.26", "lines": ["One third mil out, Fereydoon raised his eyes", "And saw a royal palace pierce the skies."]}, {"id": "A5.6.27", "lines": ["It shone like Jupiter, serene and bright,", "With signs of peace and welcome to the sight."]}, {"id": "A5.6.28", "lines": ["Its eyvan towered higher than Saturn’s place,", "As though its crest might brush the starry space."]}, {"id": "A5.6.29", "lines": ["He knew the Dragon’s house before his eyes,", "A seat of wealth beneath a royal guise."]}, {"id": "A5.6.30", "lines": ["He told his men, “Who raises from dark clay", "Such height from earth’s abyss into the day,"]}, {"id": "A5.6.31", "lines": ["I fear the world conceals some hidden tie,", "A bond that fortune will not yet deny."]}, {"id": "A5.6.32", "lines": ["Here in this strait, delay will serve us ill;", "We must make haste and press upon him still.”"]}, {"id": "A5.6.33", "lines": ["He spoke, then seized the heavy gorz he bore,", "And loosed the reins; his charger forward tore."]}, {"id": "A5.6.34", "lines": ["He sprang like fire before the palace gate,", "Where watchmen stood to guard the tyrant’s state."]}, {"id": "A5.6.35", "lines": ["He raised his heavy gorz above the ground,", "As though the earth itself would roll around."]}, {"id": "A5.6.36", "lines": ["No keeper at the entrance still was found;", "He called the World-Creator, looking round."]}, {"id": "A5.6.37", "lines": ["He rode on horseback through the palace wide,", "A mighty youth whom time had not yet tried."]}, {"id": "A5.7.1", "lines": ["A talisman rose towering toward the sky,", "Raised not to Him who rules the world on high."]}, {"id": "A5.7.2", "lines": ["Fereydoon saw the false charm had been planned,", "And smashed it with the ox-head gorz in hand."]}, {"id": "A5.7.3", "lines": ["Within the eyvan, mighty male Divs remained,", "By sorcery and Zahhak’s dark power sustained."]}, {"id": "A5.7.4", "lines": ["Beneath his heavy gorz their heads all fell,", "And from that place he swept each darkened spell."]}, {"id": "A5.7.5", "lines": ["Zahhak’s own seat he claimed before them all,", "And set his foot within the tyrant’s hall."]}, {"id": "A5.7.6", "lines": ["The Kayanian cap he set in place,", "With kingly farr resplendent in his face."]}, {"id": "A5.7.7", "lines": ["From Zahhak’s shabestan came women fair,", "Sun-faced and dark of eye, with flowing hair."]}, {"id": "A5.7.8", "lines": ["Among them Jamshid’s daughters stood forlorn,", "Their minds by Zahhak’s sorcery were worn."]}, {"id": "A5.7.9", "lines": ["Like those made senseless by a drunken state,", "They stood confused beneath their noxious fate."]}, {"id": "A5.7.10", "lines": ["He had their heads washed clean of stain and dread,", "And purged the darkness Zahhak’s teachings spread."]}, {"id": "A5.7.11", "lines": ["He showed the path that leads to God the Pure,", "And cleansed the taint they long had to endure."]}, {"id": "A5.7.12", "lines": ["For raised in false belief beneath that reign,", "Their minds had wandered far from truth’s domain."]}, {"id": "A5.7.13", "lines": ["Their narcissus eyes overflowed with deep grief,", "And crimson cheeks found tears but no relief."]}, {"id": "A5.7.14", "lines": ["“May you endure while this old world is fair;", "May fortune guard the royal star you bear."]}, {"id": "A5.7.15", "lines": ["What star is yours, what fortunate decree?", "What fruit are you, from branch of what great tree?"]}, {"id": "A5.7.16", "lines": ["What man before has dared the lion’s lair,", "Or entered Zahhak’s palace, reached his chair?"]}, {"id": "A5.7.17", "lines": ["No one before has sought his throne or place,", "Or dared desire his station face to face."]}, {"id": "A5.7.18", "lines": ["This tyrant serves Ahriman, the foe;", "What grief has filled the land beneath his blow!”"]}, {"id": "A5.7.19", "lines": ["He answered: “Fortune rests with none for long;", "It shifts with time from right and turns to wrong."]}, {"id": "A5.7.20", "lines": ["My father, Abtin, bore an honored name;", "From Iran Zahhak seized him without shame."]}, {"id": "A5.7.21", "lines": ["He killed him wretchedly; for that I came", "To seek revenge and end the tyrant’s claim."]}, {"id": "A5.7.22", "lines": ["He slaughtered Barmayeh, who gave me milk,", "Whose patterned hide shone bright as painted silk."]}, {"id": "A5.7.23", "lines": ["What profit could that impure tyrant gain", "By spilling blood of one who caused no pain?"]}, {"id": "A5.7.24", "lines": ["From Iran, girded for revenge, I came,", "And brought this ox-head gorz to end his name."]}, {"id": "A5.7.25", "lines": ["With this great gorz I mean to crush his head;", "No mercy stays my hand till he is dead.”"]}, {"id": "A5.7.26", "lines": ["When Arnavaz these words had clearly heard,", "She grasped the truth and in her heart it stirred:"]}, {"id": "A5.7.27", "lines": ["“You are Shah Fereydoon, whose hand will break", "The talisman and every spell they make."]}, {"id": "A5.7.28", "lines": ["Now all the world’s release depends on you;", "Your girding shows what righteous strength can do."]}, {"id": "A5.7.29", "lines": ["We two are women born of Kayan blood,", "Kept pure though trapped beneath this evil flood."]}, {"id": "A5.7.30", "lines": ["We yielded only out of fear of death;", "What choice had we beneath the Dragon’s breath?"]}, {"id": "A5.7.31", "lines": ["Would we by choice, awake or sleeping, dwell", "Beside these serpents in so dark a hell?”"]}, {"id": "A5.7.32", "lines": ["Then Fereydoon replied with steady will:", "“If heaven stands with me and guides me still,"]}, {"id": "A5.7.33", "lines": ["I shall uproot the Dragon from our sight,", "And wash the world of stain by God’s own light."]}, {"id": "A5.7.34", "lines": ["Now speak the truth, conceal no part from me:", "Where is this tyrant? Where can Zahhak be?”"]}, {"id": "A5.7.35", "lines": ["She answered: “Far away toward Hind he went,", "To work his sorcery with dark intent."]}, {"id": "A5.7.36", "lines": ["Afraid of what his evil stars portend,", "A thousand guiltless heads he brings to end."]}, {"id": "A5.7.37", "lines": ["A seer foretold: ‘The earth will cast you down;", "Another comes to take your throne and crown.’"]}, {"id": "A5.7.38", "lines": ["His fortune fades beneath that prophecy;", "All joy and ease from him have ceased to be."]}, {"id": "A5.7.39", "lines": ["From tame and savage beasts he gathers blood,", "And pours it all into a single flood."]}, {"id": "A5.7.40", "lines": ["The blood of men and women joins that tide;", "One vat receives the slaughter from each side."]}, {"id": "A5.7.41", "lines": ["He bathes his head and body in that gore,", "To void the fate the starry omens bore."]}, {"id": "A5.7.42", "lines": ["Two shoulder-serpents grant him no repose;", "Their torment follows everywhere he goes."]}, {"id": "A5.7.43", "lines": ["From land to land he wanders without peace,", "No hour arrives when torment finds release."]}, {"id": "A5.7.44", "lines": ["His time to turn again is drawing near;", "No country holds him long, consumed by fear.”"]}, {"id": "A5.7.45", "lines": ["Thus Arnavaz disclosed the hidden thread,", "While high-born Fereydoon heard all she said."]}, {"id": "A5.8.1", "lines": ["While Zahhak ranged abroad and left the state,", "A wealthy servant stayed to watch and wait."]}, {"id": "A5.8.2", "lines": ["He held much treasure, palace, throne, and hall,", "A steward deeply mindful of it all."]}, {"id": "A5.8.3", "lines": ["They called him Kundrav; walking at his side,", "He moved one pace behind the tyrant’s stride."]}, {"id": "A5.8.4", "lines": ["He hurried to the palace in surprise;", "A newly crowned king met his startled eyes."]}, {"id": "A5.8.5", "lines": ["Serene he sat within the royal hall,", "A cypress ringed by moon-bright beauties all."]}, {"id": "A5.8.6", "lines": ["Shahrnaz, cypress-tall, sat at his right;", "Moon-faced Arnavaz shone, a beauty bright."]}, {"id": "A5.8.7", "lines": ["The city brimmed with troops who did his will,", "While girded ranks stood marshaled, poised and still."]}, {"id": "A5.8.8", "lines": ["Kundrav felt no fear, nor asked the reason why;", "He bowed with reverence, then came nearby."]}, {"id": "A5.8.9", "lines": ["He blessed him: “King, may you forever reign,", "As long as time and turning world remain."]}, {"id": "A5.8.10", "lines": ["Blessed your seat, your royal farr and fame;", "You merit well the Shahanshah’s great name."]}, {"id": "A5.8.11", "lines": ["May all Seven Climes serve beneath your hand;", "May your head rise above the rain-cloud’s band.”"]}, {"id": "A5.8.12", "lines": ["Fereydoon called him forward to draw near;", "Kundrav disclosed his rank and office clear."]}, {"id": "A5.8.13", "lines": ["The Shah commanded, “Let the feast be great;", "Prepare the board before the hour grows late."]}, {"id": "A5.8.14", "lines": ["Bring wine and minstrels; let the cups be poured;", "With every fitting dish adorn the board."]}, {"id": "A5.8.15", "lines": ["Bring those whose music merits my delight,", "Whose knowledge lifts the heart and clears the sight."]}, {"id": "A5.8.16", "lines": ["Assemble all around my royal throne,", "In state befitting fortune now my own.”"]}, {"id": "A5.8.17", "lines": ["The steward heard and did the king’s command;", "He set the feast exactly as was planned."]}, {"id": "A5.8.18", "lines": ["He brought bright wine and minstrels skilled in art,", "And noble guests of rank and honored heart."]}, {"id": "A5.8.19", "lines": ["Fereydoon cast his grief aside that night,", "And held a feast in royal joy and light."]}, {"id": "A5.8.20", "lines": ["When revels stilled and night had settled down,", "Kundrav slipped out from him who wore the crown."]}, {"id": "A5.8.21", "lines": ["He mounted then a swift and tireless steed,", "And rode to Zahhak with the utmost speed."]}, {"id": "A5.8.22", "lines": ["When he arrived, he stood before the king;", "He told him all that sight and sound could bring."]}, {"id": "A5.8.23", "lines": ["He said, “O king, the signs are plain to view:", "Your fortune’s turning now is plain to you."]}, {"id": "A5.8.24", "lines": ["Three proud men march, their army is now near;", "They come from foreign lands, their purpose clear."]}, {"id": "A5.8.25", "lines": ["The youngest stands between the elder pair,", "Cypress-tall, royal in mien, proud and fair."]}, {"id": "A5.8.26", "lines": ["Though youngest in his years, his worth is more;", "He strides ahead of those who came before."]}, {"id": "A5.8.27", "lines": ["He bears a gorz like one great mountain stone;", "It shines amid the ranks with light its own."]}, {"id": "A5.8.28", "lines": ["On horseback through your royal eyvan came", "The other two beside him, men of name."]}, {"id": "A5.8.29", "lines": ["He sat upon the ancient royal seat,", "And broke your bonds and spells beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "A5.8.30", "lines": ["Whoever in your eyvan stood that hour,", "Both mortal men and Divs who served your power,"]}, {"id": "A5.8.31", "lines": ["He struck them down together, rank on rank;", "Their brains with blood across the pavement sank.”"]}, {"id": "A5.8.32", "lines": ["Zahhak replied, “Perhaps it should be so;", "A guest should find delight where he may go.”"]}, {"id": "A5.8.33", "lines": ["Kundrav said, “A guest who comes to your hall,", "Who bears an ox-head gorz before us all,"]}, {"id": "A5.8.34", "lines": ["Who boldly takes your station as his own,", "And strips you of your girdle and your throne,"]}, {"id": "A5.8.35", "lines": ["Who bends the court and realm to his own way;", "If this is guesthood, call it so today.”"]}, {"id": "A5.8.36", "lines": ["Zahhak replied, “Why grieve? A guest more bold", "Brings better omens, or so I am told.”"]}, {"id": "A5.8.37", "lines": ["Kundrav replied, “I heard the words you say;", "Now hear me too, and answer if you may."]}, {"id": "A5.8.38", "lines": ["If this renowned man truly is your guest,", "Why in your shabestan has he found rest?"]}, {"id": "A5.8.39", "lines": ["Why sit with Jamshid’s daughters side by side,", "And speak of every matter they decide?"]}, {"id": "A5.8.40", "lines": ["One hand now rests on fair Shahrnaz’s cheek;", "One brushes Arnavaz’s lips as they speak."]}, {"id": "A5.8.41", "lines": ["At dark of night he does still worse than this;", "Their musk-dark tresses serve his bed of bliss."]}, {"id": "A5.8.42", "lines": ["Those musk-black tresses of the moon-faced two", "Belong to those your heart once held as true."]}, {"id": "A5.8.43", "lines": ["Half-drunk, he draws them close against his breast;", "That is no proper conduct for a guest.”"]}, {"id": "A5.8.44", "lines": ["Zahhak erupted like a maddened beast;", "He wished for death when Kundrav’s words had ceased."]}, {"id": "A5.8.45", "lines": ["With filthy curses and a thunderous cry,", "He raged against his fortune and the sky."]}, {"id": "A5.8.46", "lines": ["He shouted, “In this royal house of mine,", "No longer shall you serve in steward’s line!”"]}, {"id": "A5.8.47", "lines": ["Kundrav replied, “O king, I think you right;", "That judgment now accords with present plight."]}, {"id": "A5.8.48", "lines": ["No share of former fortune now remains;", "How can you grant me, then, the steward’s reins?"]}, {"id": "A5.8.49", "lines": ["If you no longer hold the royal seat,", "How can you place an office at my feet?"]}, {"id": "A5.8.50", "lines": ["First set your own affairs before they slide;", "No such disaster ever reached your side."]}, {"id": "A5.8.51", "lines": ["From greatness’ crown you have been drawn so low,", "Like one hair cleanly pulled from kneaded dough."]}, {"id": "A5.8.52", "lines": ["Your enemy has come and seized your throne,", "Ox-headed gorz in hand, his claim made known."]}, {"id": "A5.8.53", "lines": ["He broke your spells and stripped them of their might;", "He took your loves and seized your royal right.”"]}, {"id": "A5.9.1", "lines": ["Roused by that talk, Zahhak resolved to ride,", "And swift, keen steeds were saddled at his side."]}, {"id": "A5.9.2", "lines": ["With warrior Divs in multitudes he came,", "By hidden roads, his heart consumed with flame."]}, {"id": "A5.9.3", "lines": ["By secret paths he neared the palace gate,", "His heart on vengeance, blind to crown and fate."]}, {"id": "A5.9.4", "lines": ["The warning reached Fereydoon’s armed array,", "They moved at once to block the passageway."]}, {"id": "A5.9.5", "lines": ["They left their war-steeds, closing rank on rank,", "While townsmen armed themselves on either flank."]}, {"id": "A5.9.6", "lines": ["From roofs and gates the city rose in wrath,", "Their hearts made fierce by Zahhak’s bloody path."]}, {"id": "A5.9.7", "lines": ["The young came forth, the old in battle tried,", "And cast the tyrant’s falsehoods all aside."]}, {"id": "A5.9.8", "lines": ["From walls came bricks, from roofs came stones in sheets,", "While swords and arrows filled the crowded streets."]}, {"id": "A5.9.9", "lines": ["They fell like hail from one black cloud in flight,", "Till not a foot could find a place to light."]}, {"id": "A5.9.10", "lines": ["The mountain roared beneath the warriors’ cry,", "The earth grew weary as the hooves flew by."]}, {"id": "A5.9.11", "lines": ["War-dust arose and hid the sun from view,", "While spears struck stone as though to pierce it through."]}, {"id": "A5.9.12", "lines": ["A fierce cry rose from the fire-temple’s hall:", "“Why should this impure Dragon rule us all?"]}, {"id": "A5.9.13", "lines": ["Let every man among us back the right,", "Not bow before the serpent-shouldered blight.”"]}, {"id": "A5.9.14", "lines": ["From street and roof a cloud of darkness grew,", "The bright sun turned a deep lapis hue."]}, {"id": "A5.9.15", "lines": ["Then Zahhak, fired by jealousy and fear,", "Drew close in iron, masked in battle gear."]}, {"id": "A5.9.16", "lines": ["A sixty-zara kamand he unwound,", "Then climbed the palace wall without a sound."]}, {"id": "A5.9.17", "lines": ["Below, young Fereydoon sat in his place,", "With Shahrnaz beside him, face to face."]}, {"id": "A5.9.18", "lines": ["Her narcissus eyes were dark, her cheeks like day,", "Her night-black hair across her shoulders lay."]}, {"id": "A5.9.19", "lines": ["Her lips were open, cursing Zahhak’s name;", "At once his jealous heart burst into flame."]}, {"id": "A5.9.20", "lines": ["He cast his kamand down into the hall,", "And risked both life and kingship in that fall."]}, {"id": "A5.9.21", "lines": ["He reached the ground, his khanjar bared to kill,", "And thirsted for the women’s blood to spill."]}, {"id": "A5.9.22", "lines": ["But Fereydoon came rushing like the blast,", "His ox-head gorz in hand, advancing fast."]}, {"id": "A5.9.23", "lines": ["He struck Zahhak upon the helmet’s crown,", "And smashed its iron crest and drove him down."]}, {"id": "A5.9.24", "lines": ["He raised the gorz again above his head,", "Then Soroush cried, “You must not strike him dead."]}, {"id": "A5.9.25", "lines": ["His time has not arrived; do not yet slay.", "Bind him, and bear him from the world away."]}, {"id": "A5.9.26", "lines": ["Take him between the mountains, narrow, steep,", "Where kin and comrades cannot reach his keep.”"]}, {"id": "A5.9.27", "lines": ["Fereydoon heard and stayed his lifted hand,", "Then bound the tyrant fast with leather band."]}, {"id": "A5.9.28", "lines": ["With lion-hide he bound his hands and waist,", "And drew the knots with neither slack nor haste."]}, {"id": "A5.9.29", "lines": ["So tight the bonds around the tyrant lay,", "No elephant in rage could break away."]}, {"id": "A5.9.30", "lines": ["Then on the golden throne he took his seat,", "And cast the tyrant’s customs at his feet."]}, {"id": "A5.9.31", "lines": ["He called aloud: “O men of wakeful mind,", "Lay down your arms and leave this strife behind."]}, {"id": "A5.9.32", "lines": ["The warrior and craftsman have their art;", "Let neither seize the other’s proper part."]}, {"id": "A5.9.33", "lines": ["One works with craft; one wields the gorz with skill,", "The realm stands firm when each fulfills his will."]}, {"id": "A5.9.34", "lines": ["If each should seize the other’s task instead,", "Disorder through the whole wide earth would spread."]}, {"id": "A5.9.35", "lines": ["So each return to work that is his own;", "From rightful order lasting peace has grown."]}, {"id": "A5.9.36", "lines": ["The tyrant who made all the world afraid", "Now lies in bonds, his evil customs stayed."]}, {"id": "A5.9.37", "lines": ["Return in peace, resume your proper trade;", "Live joyfully beneath the realm remade.”"]}, {"id": "A5.9.38", "lines": ["The city’s nobles, wealthy men of name,", "Came bearing gifts and praising Fereydoon’s fame."]}, {"id": "A5.9.39", "lines": ["Those who possessed a share of crown or gold", "Came joyfully, with gifts a thousandfold."]}, {"id": "A5.9.40", "lines": ["He welcomed each according to his state,", "And heard with grace what each chose to relate."]}, {"id": "A5.9.41", "lines": ["He gave them counsel, blessed them one by one,", "And praised the World-Creator for what was done."]}, {"id": "A5.9.42", "lines": ["He said, “This realm is mine by Heaven’s grace;", "A fortunate star now shines upon this place."]}, {"id": "A5.9.43", "lines": ["The Pure God raised me from Alborz on high", "To cleanse the world where Dragon’s shadows lie."]}, {"id": "A5.9.44", "lines": ["By this great gorz He gave my hand its might,", "To clear the earth of Dragon-darkened night."]}, {"id": "A5.9.45", "lines": ["When the Good-Giver sends His boon, we should", "Make answer to His gift through doing good."]}, {"id": "A5.9.46", "lines": ["The whole wide world now lies beneath my reign;", "I must move on; no ruler can remain."]}, {"id": "A5.9.47", "lines": ["Else I would gladly stay for many days,", "And share with you this city’s feast and praise.”"]}, {"id": "A5.9.48", "lines": ["They bowed and kissed the ground before the king,", "Tabiras, karnays made the city ring."]}, {"id": "A5.9.49", "lines": ["They cried, “Bring out the Dragon bound in chain;", "Let all behold the ending of his reign.”"]}, {"id": "A5.9.50", "lines": ["Fereydoon’s army took no spoil or gold,", "But left the city’s wealth for them to hold."]}, {"id": "A5.9.51", "lines": ["They laid Zahhak across a camel’s back,", "Bound in disgrace upon the mountain track."]}, {"id": "A5.9.52", "lines": ["Toward Shir-khvan they drove the tyrant low,", "His former state reduced to shame and woe."]}, {"id": "A5.9.53", "lines": ["“Call this old world ancient,” says the tale;", "How many ages crossed each hill and vale."]}, {"id": "A5.9.54", "lines": ["And countless ages yet will turn and pass,", "While men depart like footprints from the grass."]}, {"id": "A5.9.55", "lines": ["Fereydoon then resolved to strike him dead,", "And end at once the tyrant’s life of dread."]}, {"id": "A5.9.56", "lines": ["Again came Soroush, calling from the sky:", "“Do not yet kill him; he must not yet die."]}, {"id": "A5.9.57", "lines": ["Bear him to Damavand, securely bound;", "Take only those you need upon that ground."]}, {"id": "A5.9.58", "lines": ["Bring no great crowd; take only chosen few,", "Companions firm in hardship, tried and true.”"]}, {"id": "A5.9.59", "lines": ["Fereydoon hastened onward at full speed,", "The city’s walls fell far behind his steed."]}, {"id": "A5.9.60", "lines": ["He brought Zahhak to Damavand, the peak", "Where crags enclosed him, overcast and bleak."]}, {"id": "A5.9.61", "lines": ["He chose a cave whose bottom none could see,", "A hidden cleft where none might set him free."]}, {"id": "A5.9.62", "lines": ["He brought great iron spikes and massive chains,", "And fixed the tyrant where the rock constrains."]}, {"id": "A5.9.63", "lines": ["His hands were bound against the mountainside,", "New chains were drawn above the first and tied."]}, {"id": "A5.9.64", "lines": ["He left him hanging there in grievous pain,", "While blood ran down and darkened rock and plain."]}, {"id": "A5.9.65", "lines": ["The name of Zahhak sank beneath the clay,", "And earth was cleansed of evil on that day."]}, {"id": "A5.9.66", "lines": ["Cut off from kin and comrades, left alone,", "No friendly voice could reach him through the stone."]}, {"id": "A5.9.67", "lines": ["So let us not surrender earth to wrong;", "Let goodness rule our conduct all life long."]}, {"id": "A5.9.68", "lines": ["Neither the good nor evil long remain;", "Let goodness be the memory we retain."]}, {"id": "A5.9.69", "lines": ["What use are treasure, coin, or palace walls,", "When Time at last upon the owner calls?"]}, {"id": "A5.9.70", "lines": ["Your words live on to mark you when you go;", "So never count good speech as mean or low."]}, {"id": "A5.9.71", "lines": ["Fereydoon was not born of angel kind;", "Nor musk nor ambergris in him combined."]}, {"id": "A5.9.72", "lines": ["His fame was born of justice, open hand;", "Those virtues raised his name throughout the land."]}, {"id": "A5.9.73", "lines": ["Practice those two: be Fereydoon in deed;", "Show justice; give wherever there is need."]}, {"id": "A5.9.74", "lines": ["Through godly action first he cleansed the earth,", "And gave a wounded world a second birth."]}, {"id": "A5.9.75", "lines": ["He bound Zahhak, the impure king of wrong,", "And broke the terror he had spread so long."]}, {"id": "A5.9.76", "lines": ["He then avenged the father he had lost,", "And drove the foolish from the land they crossed."]}, {"id": "A5.9.77", "lines": ["He took the earth away from wicked hands,", "And justice rose again throughout the lands."]}, {"id": "A5.9.78", "lines": ["Yet where is he who once possessed the throne?", "He too departed, leaving all his own."]}, {"id": "A5.9.79", "lines": ["From Time he carried nothing in the end,", "Except regret for what he could not mend."]}, {"id": "A5.9.80", "lines": ["O world, how loveless is the path you choose:", "You nurture what you later hunt and lose."]}, {"id": "A5.9.81", "lines": ["Such is the fate of mighty and of small,", "The shepherd and the flock alike must fall."]}, {"id": "A5.9.82", "lines": ["The crown, the treasure, every lofty wall", "Remain behind when death has made its call."]}, {"id": "A5.9.83", "lines": ["But goodness lives when body, wealth, and power", "Have passed like shade before the final hour."]}, {"id": "A5.9.84", "lines": ["So leave a name made luminous and just;", "Good deeds endure when crown and gold are dust."]}]}, {"id": "A6", "title": "The First Kings: Fereydoon", "summary": "27 sections · 1,131 couplets", "path": "/poem/a6/", "couplets": [{"id": "A6.1.1", "lines": ["When Fereydoon had made the world his own,", "He saw no other Shah on any throne."]}, {"id": "A6.1.2", "lines": ["By Kayanian custom he arrayed", "The crown and throne, and royal state displayed."]}, {"id": "A6.1.3", "lines": ["On Mehr’s first day, auspicious, bright, and clear,", "He set the Kayanian cap with royal cheer."]}, {"id": "A6.1.4", "lines": ["The age was freed from evil, grief, and pain;", "The people sought God’s path throughout the reign."]}, {"id": "A6.1.5", "lines": ["They emptied hearts of quarrel and of blame,", "And founded then a feast of lasting fame."]}, {"id": "A6.1.6", "lines": ["The sages gathered, joyful in their place,", "Each held a ruby cup before his face."]}, {"id": "A6.1.7", "lines": ["Bright wine was poured; the new Shah’s face now shone,", "And justice made the world seem newly grown."]}, {"id": "A6.1.8", "lines": ["He ordered fires kindled all around;", "The people lit them over town and ground."]}, {"id": "A6.1.9", "lines": ["On every fire they burned with festive care", "Sweet ambergris and saffron, rich and rare."]}, {"id": "A6.1.10", "lines": ["Thus Mehrgan took its root in joyful cheer,", "With rest and feasting marking Mehr each year."]}, {"id": "A6.1.11", "lines": ["His name lives on in Mehr, held ever dear;", "Seek ease, and turn your face away from fear."]}, {"id": "A6.1.12", "lines": ["For five full centuries his kingship ran;", "No day did evil enter in his plan."]}, {"id": "A6.1.13", "lines": ["Yet even Fereydoon could not keep this place;", "So worship greed no more, nor grief embrace."]}, {"id": "A6.1.14", "lines": ["Know well the world will stay with none for long;", "The joy it grants is fleeting all along."]}, {"id": "A6.1.15", "lines": ["Now Faranak knew nothing of her son,", "Nor that Zahhak’s long sovereignty was done."]}, {"id": "A6.1.16", "lines": ["At last the news reached her of his renown,", "And how her son now wore the royal crown."]}, {"id": "A6.1.17", "lines": ["She washed her head and body, bowed in awe,", "Before the Judge who gives the world its law."]}, {"id": "A6.1.18", "lines": ["She bowed her head to dust, cursed Zahhak’s reign,", "And praised the Creator for joy after pain."]}, {"id": "A6.1.19", "lines": ["She sought the needy out with secret care,", "And gave in secret each allotted share."]}, {"id": "A6.1.20", "lines": ["For one full week her hidden gifts were spread,", "Till almost all the needy had been fed."]}, {"id": "A6.1.21", "lines": ["Another week she feasted nobles all,", "And made her banquet-place a garden hall."]}, {"id": "A6.1.22", "lines": ["Then hidden treasure gathered through the years", "She opened freely after grief and tears."]}, {"id": "A6.1.23", "lines": ["Now that her son was Shah, she prized no store;", "Silver seemed cheap; her treasure pleased no more."]}, {"id": "A6.1.24", "lines": ["She chose rich royal garments, jewels bright,", "And gifts befitting majesty and might."]}, {"id": "A6.1.25", "lines": ["Arabian steeds with golden bridles came,", "Their cheekpieces flashed bright with golden flame."]}, {"id": "A6.1.26", "lines": ["She sent him jowshan, helmets, javelins keen,", "The finest martial gear that could be seen."]}, {"id": "A6.1.27", "lines": ["With sword and cap and girdle fit for kings,", "She gathered up the treasury’s finest things."]}, {"id": "A6.1.28", "lines": ["She loaded camels with the gathered store,", "And turned to God, then sent it from her door."]}, {"id": "A6.1.29", "lines": ["The king received her gifts with joyful face,", "And blessed his mother in the royal place."]}, {"id": "A6.1.30", "lines": ["The army’s chiefs, when word had reached their ear,", "Came swiftly to the Shah and gathered near."]}, {"id": "A6.1.31", "lines": ["They said: “O mighty Shah, who knows God’s way,", "Give thanks to Him who brought this blessed new day."]}, {"id": "A6.1.32", "lines": ["May fortune shine upon you, ever true,", "And every foe’s dark hope be lost from view."]}, {"id": "A6.1.33", "lines": ["May heaven grant you victory and fame;", "Let justice, goodness ever guide your name.”"]}, {"id": "A6.1.34", "lines": ["The seasoned elders gathered from each side,", "In judgment proven, tested far and wide."]}, {"id": "A6.1.35", "lines": ["They brought him gold and jewels of every kind,", "And came with loyal hearts and willing mind."]}, {"id": "A6.1.36", "lines": ["The nobles of each country came to wait", "In joyful ranks before the royal gate."]}, {"id": "A6.1.37", "lines": ["They raised their hands to heaven and prayed as one:", "“Bless crown and throne beneath the turning sun."]}, {"id": "A6.1.38", "lines": ["Bless royal cap and signet; let them last,", "And keep this flourishing age firm and fast.”"]}, {"id": "A6.1.39", "lines": ["As time went on, he journeyed through the earth,", "To judge each region, weigh its state and worth."]}, {"id": "A6.1.40", "lines": ["He saw what lay revealed and what lay veiled,", "And learned where every province thrived or failed."]}, {"id": "A6.1.41", "lines": ["Where lawless custom governed any place,", "He marked the wrong and rooted out its trace."]}, {"id": "A6.1.42", "lines": ["Wherever lands lacked flourishing and ease,", "He made them prosper, bringing greater peace."]}, {"id": "A6.1.43", "lines": ["Through goodness he restrained each evil deed,", "As wisdom asks of rulers fit to lead."]}, {"id": "A6.1.44", "lines": ["He made the world a Paradise restored;", "Where grass had grown, the rose bloomed, cypress soared."]}, {"id": "A6.1.45", "lines": ["From Amol toward Tammisheh then he came,", "And reached the grove that bore a famous name."]}, {"id": "A6.1.46", "lines": ["Within that famous grove the Shah would stay,", "And settled in its shelter from that day."]}, {"id": "A6.1.47", "lines": ["Men called that famous region Kus alone;", "No other name for it was ever known."]}, {"id": "A6.1.48", "lines": ["There Fereydoon established royal state,", "His world restored beneath a kinder fate."]}, {"id": "A6.2.1", "lines": ["When fifty years had passed beneath the sky,", "Three cherished sons stood tall before his eye."]}, {"id": "A6.2.2", "lines": ["Two spotless sons from Shahrnaz were born,", "And with their grace the royal house adorned."]}, {"id": "A6.2.3", "lines": ["The youngest Arnavaz had brought to light,", "Fair-cheeked, radiant to his father’s sight."]}, {"id": "A6.2.4", "lines": ["All three were tall as cypresses in spring,", "And bore the form and likeness of the king."]}, {"id": "A6.2.5", "lines": ["Not yet betrothed, they strode in youthful pride,", "Like elephants in stature, side by side."]}, {"id": "A6.2.6", "lines": ["The Shah saw body, mind, and age had grown,", "And manhood’s full maturity was shown."]}, {"id": "A6.2.7", "lines": ["He called for Jandal, wakeful, pure of mind,", "Smooth-tongued in speech, accomplished and refined."]}, {"id": "A6.2.8", "lines": ["In every delicate affair he knew", "The path of service and remained most true."]}, {"id": "A6.2.9", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Travel through the world for me,", "And search each land with care from sea to sea."]}, {"id": "A6.2.10", "lines": ["Seek three fair sisters, born of one same pair,", "One father and one mother, noble, fair."]}, {"id": "A6.2.11", "lines": ["Let noble blood and chastity appear;", "Let pari-faces make each daughter dear."]}, {"id": "A6.2.12", "lines": ["Let height and beauty match from face to face,", "So none seems less in stature, form, or grace."]}, {"id": "A6.2.13", "lines": ["Their father must have pledged no daughter’s hand;", "Such brides alone will answer my command.”"]}, {"id": "A6.2.14", "lines": ["Jandal received the charge with steady heart,", "Shrewd, pure of mind, accomplished in his art."]}, {"id": "A6.2.15", "lines": ["With trusted well-wishers he took his way,", "And searched through every kingdom day by day."]}, {"id": "A6.2.16", "lines": ["In secret he inquired from place to place", "Of daughters sheltered in each noble race."]}, {"id": "A6.2.17", "lines": ["He learned their names, their lineage, and fame,", "And tested every house that rumor named."]}, {"id": "A6.2.18", "lines": ["Yet nowhere among nobles rich and great", "He found a house that matched the royal state."]}, {"id": "A6.2.19", "lines": ["At last to Yemen’s royal court he came,", "Where Sarv the Shah possessed a noble name."]}, {"id": "A6.2.20", "lines": ["There three fair daughters lived within his hall,", "In them he found the answer to it all."]}, {"id": "A6.2.21", "lines": ["In birth and beauty, stature, face, and grace,", "The three fulfilled each measure he could trace."]}, {"id": "A6.2.22", "lines": ["Then like a pheasant moving toward a flower,", "He came before King Sarv within his bower."]}, {"id": "A6.2.23", "lines": ["He kissed the ground and offered homage due,", "With polished praise, as royal servants do."]}, {"id": "A6.2.24", "lines": ["King Sarv replied, “May praise attend your name;", "Now state the cause and purpose why you came."]}, {"id": "A6.2.25", "lines": ["Are you an envoy with a message sealed,", "Or one whose noble rank should be revealed?"]}, {"id": "A6.2.26", "lines": ["Is this command or counsel that you bring,", "And in whose name do you address the king?”"]}, {"id": "A6.2.27", "lines": ["Jandal replied, “May joy be always near,", "And may all sorrow vanish far from here."]}, {"id": "A6.2.28", "lines": ["I am a servant sent from Iran’s throne;", "Great Fereydoon has made his greeting known."]}, {"id": "A6.2.29", "lines": ["He sends his greeting through my voice today;", "I bear his royal wish without delay."]}, {"id": "A6.2.30", "lines": ["He said: ‘Go seek King Sarv in Yemen’s land,", "And place my greeting in the sovereign’s hand."]}, {"id": "A6.2.31", "lines": ["So long as musk gives fragrance to the air,", "May grief be scattered far from all your care."]}, {"id": "A6.2.32", "lines": ["May evil stars not darken your domain;", "May fortune guard your life and bless your reign."]}, {"id": "A6.2.33", "lines": ["Among the Arab kings stand first in fame,", "And may good fortune ever guard your name."]}, {"id": "A6.2.34", "lines": ["What sweetness in this mortal world can live", "Beyond the joy that life and children give?"]}, {"id": "A6.2.35", "lines": ["To live in peace beneath a righteous king,", "And rear one’s children is life’s sweetest thing."]}, {"id": "A6.2.36", "lines": ["No bond beneath the turning heaven’s span", "Is dearer than a child can be to man."]}, {"id": "A6.2.37", "lines": ["If any man possessed three eyes to see,", "My three sons would those three eyes be to me."]}, {"id": "A6.2.38", "lines": ["Indeed, they are still dearer than my sight,", "For seeing them makes all the world seem bright."]}, {"id": "A6.2.39", "lines": ["A sage once said: I never join a line", "Unless I wish its fortune above mine."]}, {"id": "A6.2.40", "lines": ["The wise seek equals when they choose a friend;", "The good with worthy hearts their fortunes blend."]}, {"id": "A6.2.41", "lines": ["However rich and prosperous life appears,", "A king without good sons still harbors fears."]}, {"id": "A6.2.42", "lines": ["My realm has treasure, manhood, strength, and power;", "Good fortune guards my kingship every hour."]}, {"id": "A6.2.43", "lines": ["Three sons are mine, all worthy crown and throne,", "With wisdom, knowledge, means, and merit shown."]}, {"id": "A6.2.44", "lines": ["Whatever noble end their hearts require,", "They have the means to reach their full desire."]}, {"id": "A6.2.45", "lines": ["For these three princes I seek wives of worth,", "Three sisters joined to them by equal birth."]}, {"id": "A6.2.46", "lines": ["Within your hall, my messengers report", "Three daughters fit for princes of my court."]}, {"id": "A6.2.47", "lines": ["Your daughters are not pledged in marriage yet;", "No bridal match for any son is set."]}, {"id": "A6.2.48", "lines": ["Two kinds of precious jewels now we hold;", "Let both be joined, more precious than fine gold."]}, {"id": "A6.2.49", "lines": ["Let worthy join with worthy, house with house;", "Three royal sons each take a royal spouse."]}, {"id": "A6.2.50", "lines": ["Such is my word. I send it with respect;", "Now let your wisdom answer and direct.’”"]}, {"id": "A6.2.51", "lines": ["When Sarv had heard, his heart sank under woe,", "Like jasmine plucked from water’s cooling flow."]}, {"id": "A6.2.52", "lines": ["He thought, “If these three moons depart my sight,", "My bright day will be turned to blackest night."]}, {"id": "A6.2.53", "lines": ["If I no longer see them by my side,", "The rose of joy within my heart has died."]}, {"id": "A6.2.54", "lines": ["I should not answer such a weighty call", "Until I take the counsel of them all."]}, {"id": "A6.2.55", "lines": ["Those who have shared my fortune, good and ill,", "Must help me judge with clear and steady will.”"]}, {"id": "A6.2.56", "lines": ["He lodged the envoy with abundant care,", "With rank and service fitting the affair."]}, {"id": "A6.2.57", "lines": ["Then Sarv dismissed the court and sat apart,", "The thought of those three moons oppressed his heart."]}, {"id": "A6.2.58", "lines": ["He summoned chiefs well tested under arms,", "Spear-bearing men inured to battle’s harms."]}, {"id": "A6.2.59", "lines": ["Before them all he set his grief in view,", "And told them what the Shah now sought to do:"]}, {"id": "A6.2.60", "lines": ["“My marriage gave me daughters, only three,", "Three shining candles, all the joy in me."]}, {"id": "A6.2.61", "lines": ["Now Fereydoon has spread a lovely lure", "To take the three bright lights I keep secure."]}, {"id": "A6.2.62", "lines": ["He asks alliance, seeks a royal tie,", "His sons and my three daughters to ally."]}, {"id": "A6.2.63", "lines": ["I need your counsel, fearless, plain, and clear;", "Before I answer him, let truth appear."]}, {"id": "A6.2.64", "lines": ["If I say yes while no is in my breast,", "A king who lies brings shame upon his crest."]}, {"id": "A6.2.65", "lines": ["A lie is not the proper road of kings;", "It stains the royal tongue from which it springs."]}, {"id": "A6.2.66", "lines": ["Yet if I grant the Shah what he desires,", "My heart will burn with sorrow’s inner fires."]}, {"id": "A6.2.67", "lines": ["If I refuse the sovereign of the land,", "I risk the fury carried in his hand."]}, {"id": "A6.2.68", "lines": ["Travelers have told how Zahhak lost his crown,", "When Fereydoon’s great gorz had struck him down."]}, {"id": "A6.2.69", "lines": ["So speak: what path can wisdom recommend?", "What counsel leads this matter to an end?”"]}, {"id": "A6.2.70", "lines": ["The veteran chiefs replied, “We do not go", "Wherever every passing wind may blow."]}, {"id": "A6.2.71", "lines": ["Though Fereydoon is world-Shah without peers,", "No ring of servitude has touched our ears."]}, {"id": "A6.2.72", "lines": ["Plain speech and struggle are the ways we tread;", "Whatever comes, we face it without dread."]}, {"id": "A6.2.73", "lines": ["The bridle and the spear are ours to wield;", "We meet the issue openly afield."]}, {"id": "A6.2.74", "lines": ["With khanjars we can make the earth run wine;", "The field runs red beneath our battle line."]}, {"id": "A6.2.75", "lines": ["With lifted spears we make the air appear", "A reed-bed thick with shafts from van to rear."]}, {"id": "A6.2.76", "lines": ["If your three daughters are your heart’s delight,", "Open the purse and keep your lips shut tight."]}, {"id": "A6.2.77", "lines": ["But if you fear the world-Shah’s greater might,", "And seek another path to guard your right,"]}, {"id": "A6.2.78", "lines": ["Demand a costly task beyond men’s skill,", "A deed no living man could hope to fill."]}, {"id": "A6.2.79", "lines": ["Set such a trial before every son", "That none could hope the task might yet be done.”"]}, {"id": "A6.2.80", "lines": ["King Sarv heard what the seasoned chiefs advised,", "But found their counsel weak and ill-devised."]}, {"id": "A6.2.81", "lines": ["He saw no head or base in what they planned;", "Their counsel gave no path on which to stand."]}, {"id": "A6.3.1", "lines": ["At last he called the envoy to his side,", "And answered him with measured words and pride:"]}, {"id": "A6.3.2", "lines": ["“Before your Shah I bow to his decree;", "Whatever he commands is law to me."]}, {"id": "A6.3.3", "lines": ["Say this: ‘Exalted Shah, your sons are dear,", "And more so when their royal worth is clear."]}, {"id": "A6.3.4", "lines": ["A king holds dear a son of noble worth,", "Especially one fit to rule the earth."]}, {"id": "A6.3.5", "lines": ["I too have children, daughters cherished three;", "No worldly treasure is as dear to me."]}, {"id": "A6.3.6", "lines": ["If you should ask my eyes, my troops, my reign,", "Or Yemen’s throne and all its royal gain,"]}, {"id": "A6.3.7", "lines": ["I count all these beneath my daughters’ worth,", "Whose faces are my eyes’ one light on earth."]}, {"id": "A6.3.8", "lines": ["Yet if the Shah desires this marriage tie,", "I cannot spurn the wish of one so high."]}, {"id": "A6.3.9", "lines": ["But first let all three royal sons appear,", "That I may judge their worth when they are here."]}, {"id": "A6.3.10", "lines": ["Let all three come and brighten this dark hall;", "Their presence shall bring gladness over all."]}, {"id": "A6.3.11", "lines": ["My heart shall flourish when I see them near;", "Their wakeful minds and judgment shall be clear."]}, {"id": "A6.3.12", "lines": ["I shall look closely: does each act with zest,", "And does sound wisdom guide him through the test?"]}, {"id": "A6.3.13", "lines": ["If justice guides them, I shall take their hand", "Beneath my protection here in Yemen’s land."]}, {"id": "A6.3.14", "lines": ["Then by our custom I shall freely give", "My daughters to those princes while I live."]}, {"id": "A6.3.15", "lines": ["Whenever Fereydoon would see them then,", "I shall send all three swiftly home again.’”"]}, {"id": "A6.3.16", "lines": ["Jandal received the answer Sarv had made,", "And kissed the throne, then honors duly paid."]}, {"id": "A6.3.17", "lines": ["With blessings on his lips he left the hall,", "And turned toward Iran at his sovereign’s call."]}, {"id": "A6.3.18", "lines": ["He came before Fereydoon with the word,", "And told him all in Yemen he had heard."]}, {"id": "A6.3.19", "lines": ["The Shah called all three princes to his side,", "And laid before them what the quest implied."]}, {"id": "A6.3.20", "lines": ["He told of Jandal’s journey and reply,", "And all that passed beneath the Yemen sky."]}, {"id": "A6.3.21", "lines": ["“The Shah of Yemen rules his royal hall,", "A cypress giving shade above them all."]}, {"id": "A6.3.22", "lines": ["Three daughters are his, unpierced jewels bright;", "He has no son; they are his crown and light."]}, {"id": "A6.3.23", "lines": ["Were Soroush himself such brides to find,", "He might bow down before their noble kind."]}, {"id": "A6.3.24", "lines": ["These are the brides that I have sought for you;", "Now what remains is yours to carry through."]}, {"id": "A6.3.25", "lines": ["Go now to Yemen, eloquent and wise;", "Let keen intelligence guide ears and eyes."]}, {"id": "A6.3.26", "lines": ["Listen with care whenever Sarv may speak,", "And let your answers show the truth you seek."]}, {"id": "A6.3.27", "lines": ["Be pious, bright of heart, and free from guile;", "Let foresight guard you through each coming trial."]}, {"id": "A6.3.28", "lines": ["Speak only truth, let wisdom rule your way;", "Keep thought and judgment wakeful through the day."]}, {"id": "A6.3.29", "lines": ["A prince whom royal nurture has refined", "Must show true virtue both in deed and mind."]}, {"id": "A6.3.30", "lines": ["Now heed me well: King Sarv’s advice is sound;", "In council, his the wisest voice around."]}, {"id": "A6.3.31", "lines": ["He has great treasure, troops, and knowledge too,", "His crown and counsel both will challenge you."]}, {"id": "A6.3.32", "lines": ["Do not let Sarv outwit you by his schemes;", "The wise man works more subtly than he seems."]}, {"id": "A6.3.33", "lines": ["At first King Sarv will feast you as his guest,", "And seat you by his throne above the rest."]}, {"id": "A6.3.34", "lines": ["Then three sun-faced young women will appear,", "Like spring gardens of color, scent, and cheer."]}, {"id": "A6.3.35", "lines": ["All cypress-tall, alike in face and height,", "No outward difference will meet your sight."]}, {"id": "A6.3.36", "lines": ["The youngest of the sisters leads the line;", "Remember well this ordering and sign."]}, {"id": "A6.3.37", "lines": ["The eldest follows, while between the two", "The middle sister takes the central view."]}, {"id": "A6.3.38", "lines": ["The youngest maid will sit by eldest’s side;", "The eldest by my youngest will reside."]}, {"id": "A6.3.39", "lines": ["The middle sister with my middle son;", "Thus Sarv will seat you when the rites are done."]}, {"id": "A6.3.40", "lines": ["Then Sarv will ask you plainly to declare:", "‘Which maid is eldest of the sisters fair?"]}, {"id": "A6.3.41", "lines": ["Which is the middle, which is born the last?’", "Take care to answer well, and judge it fast."]}, {"id": "A6.3.42", "lines": ["Reply: ‘The foremost is the youngest maid;", "Her place shows how the sisters are arrayed."]}, {"id": "A6.3.43", "lines": ["The eldest has not gained her proper seat;", "Her present place does not her birthright meet."]}, {"id": "A6.3.44", "lines": ["The middle sister rightly sits between;", "Her proper rank is plainly to be seen.’”"]}, {"id": "A6.3.45", "lines": ["The three pure-born young princes heard his voice,", "And held his counsel as their guiding choice."]}, {"id": "A6.3.46", "lines": ["They left their father filled with knowledge bright,", "And afsun fit for counsel and foresight."]}, {"id": "A6.3.47", "lines": ["What else should sons of such a father show", "But counsel joined with everything they know?"]}, {"id": "A6.3.48", "lines": ["From such a father, wisdom was their guide;", "With knowledge armed, to Yemen they would ride."]}, {"id": "A6.4.1", "lines": ["The three prepared and called Mobadan near,", "And set upon their journey, purpose clear."]}, {"id": "A6.4.2", "lines": ["An army like the heavens moved in train,", "With sun-faced men renowned across the plain."]}, {"id": "A6.4.3", "lines": ["When Sarv was told the princes were close by,", "He decked his army bright with pheasant dye."]}, {"id": "A6.4.4", "lines": ["A mighty welcoming force he sent ahead,", "By wise kinsmen and men of honor led."]}, {"id": "A6.4.5", "lines": ["When those three princes entered Yemen’s land,", "Both men and women came from every hand."]}, {"id": "A6.4.6", "lines": ["They scattered jewels with saffron in their way,", "And musk with wine was poured throughout the day."]}, {"id": "A6.4.7", "lines": ["Their horses’ manes with musk and wine were wet,", "While golden coins beneath their feet were set."]}, {"id": "A6.4.8", "lines": ["A palace bright as Paradise arose,", "Prepared in splendor for the guests’ repose."]}, {"id": "A6.4.9", "lines": ["With gold and silver every chamber shone,", "And Roman brocade decked the jeweled throne."]}, {"id": "A6.4.10", "lines": ["King Sarv received the princes at his hall,", "And gave a monarch’s welcome to them all."]}, {"id": "A6.4.11", "lines": ["At dawn King Sarv’s three daughters duly came,", "Just as Fereydoon had foretold his aim."]}, {"id": "A6.4.12", "lines": ["Like shining moons, they entered, fair and bright,", "So bright their faces dazzled mortal sight."]}, {"id": "A6.4.13", "lines": ["They sat exactly as the Shah had said,", "In that same order Sarv had planned instead."]}, {"id": "A6.4.14", "lines": ["Then Sarv addressed the three and asked them plain:", "“Which of these stars is youngest? Now explain."]}, {"id": "A6.4.15", "lines": ["Which one is middle, which the eldest maid?", "Now tell me how their order is arrayed.”"]}, {"id": "A6.4.16", "lines": ["They answered as their father’s lessons taught,", "And broke the snare that cunning Sarv had wrought."]}, {"id": "A6.4.17", "lines": ["King Sarv stood with his warriors amazed,", "By wisdom all three princes had displayed."]}, {"id": "A6.4.18", "lines": ["King Sarv perceived his mixing plan had failed;", "Confusing colors nothing now availed."]}, {"id": "A6.4.19", "lines": ["He said, “The proper order now is clear:", "Give young to young, the elder to her peer.”"]}, {"id": "A6.4.20", "lines": ["Thus all the marriage bonds were now agreed,", "And Sarv accepted each in word and deed."]}, {"id": "A6.4.21", "lines": ["Three crown-bearing women faced the three,", "Their brows shone damp with shame for all to see."]}, {"id": "A6.4.22", "lines": ["With modest grace they turned toward their room,", "Soft words upon their lips had yet to bloom."]}, {"id": "A6.5.1", "lines": ["Then Sarv brought wine and gathered friends that day,", "And kept the feast till daylight passed away."]}, {"id": "A6.5.2", "lines": ["The princes drank until the wine grew strong,", "And sleep and rest seemed welcome before long."]}, {"id": "A6.5.3", "lines": ["Their couches stood by rosewater, a pool", "Within a garden fragrant, dark, and cool."]}, {"id": "A6.5.4", "lines": ["Beneath a flower-scattering tree they lay,", "And slept there peacefully till break of day."]}, {"id": "A6.5.5", "lines": ["But Sarv, the sorcerers’ king, devised his guile,", "And left the royal garden for a while."]}, {"id": "A6.5.6", "lines": ["He worked his spell and raised a deadly cold,", "With roaring winds to kill those princes bold."]}, {"id": "A6.5.7", "lines": ["The meadow froze; the plain lay iron-white,", "No crow could cross the air in such a night."]}, {"id": "A6.5.8", "lines": ["The spell-breaking Shah’s three sons sprang from sleep,", "When bitter cold had pierced the garden deep."]}, {"id": "A6.5.9", "lines": ["Divine farr guarded them, and wisdom’s power;", "Their royal knowledge braced them in that hour."]}, {"id": "A6.5.10", "lines": ["With royal afsun, steadfast in the cold,", "They barred the spell and broke its deadly hold."]}, {"id": "A6.5.11", "lines": ["When morning crowned the mountain peak with gold,", "King Sarv came forth, the outcome to behold."]}, {"id": "A6.5.12", "lines": ["He hoped to find their faces lapis-blue,", "Their bodies frozen when the night was through."]}, {"id": "A6.5.13", "lines": ["He hoped their fortune would be overthrown,", "And his three daughters stay with him alone."]}, {"id": "A6.5.14", "lines": ["But fate refused the wish that Sarv had made;", "The sun and moon would grant him no such aid."]}, {"id": "A6.5.15", "lines": ["He saw the three were safe at break of dawn,", "Like three new moons in royal splendor drawn."]}, {"id": "A6.5.16", "lines": ["He knew his spell had failed, its power spent,", "And turned from sorcery and its intent."]}, {"id": "A6.5.17", "lines": ["He called the court; the men of rank appeared,", "And stood in line before the Shah revered."]}, {"id": "A6.5.18", "lines": ["He opened treasuries long sealed from sight,", "And brought concealed wealth forth into the light."]}, {"id": "A6.5.19", "lines": ["He brought his sun-faced daughters to the three,", "Like Paradise in spring for all to see."]}, {"id": "A6.5.20", "lines": ["No Mobad raised three cypresses so tall,", "So straight and graceful as Sarv’s daughters all."]}, {"id": "A6.5.21", "lines": ["With crowns and treasure, hardship none had known,", "Save curling raven tresses of their own."]}, {"id": "A6.5.22", "lines": ["Three new moons stood with princes, pair by pair,", "Three warrior sons with three young women fair."]}, {"id": "A6.5.23", "lines": ["Then Sarv in bitterness gave voice to pain:", "“Fereydoon has brought sorrow on my reign."]}, {"id": "A6.5.24", "lines": ["How fortunate the man with daughters none;", "For daughters go, and joy goes one by one.”"]}, {"id": "A6.5.25", "lines": ["Then Sarv before all the Mobadan said,", "And turned from grief to what must lie ahead:"]}, {"id": "A6.5.26", "lines": ["“The moon should have a king to be her mate;", "Such matching suits the dignity of state."]}, {"id": "A6.5.27", "lines": ["Know these three world-seeing eyes of mine", "I now entrust to princes of his line."]}, {"id": "A6.5.28", "lines": ["Keep each as dearly as you guard your sight,", "And guard her life with honor and with right.”"]}, {"id": "A6.5.29", "lines": ["Then Sarv commanded all their gear prepared,", "And travel goods for every bride were shared."]}, {"id": "A6.5.30", "lines": ["On spirited camels all the loads were laid,", "With royal wealth for every royal maid."]}, {"id": "A6.5.31", "lines": ["All Yemen glittered with the jewels’ glow,", "As three rich litters waited in a row."]}, {"id": "A6.5.32", "lines": ["Behind the litters royal riches lay,", "And kingly goods were marshaled for the way."]}, {"id": "A6.5.33", "lines": ["Where worthy nature gives a child its grace,", "Both son and daughter hold an equal place."]}, {"id": "A6.5.34", "lines": ["A worthy child brings gladness to the heart,", "Whether a son or daughter from the start."]}, {"id": "A6.5.35", "lines": ["The princes with their brides set forth in pride,", "Toward Fereydoon they journeyed side by side."]}, {"id": "A6.5.36", "lines": ["Those wakeful-hearted youths pursued their way,", "And with their royal brides rode home that day."]}, {"id": "A6.6.1", "lines": ["When word arrived his sons were drawing near,", "Fereydoon rode to meet them, purpose clear."]}, {"id": "A6.6.2", "lines": ["He wished to test the nature of each mind,", "And learn what hidden traits he there might find."]}, {"id": "A6.6.3", "lines": ["He took the form of dragon, vast and dire,", "A shape whose breath seemed made of living fire."]}, {"id": "A6.6.4", "lines": ["No lion could escape that creature’s might;", "It roared and seethed, its mouth a blaze of light."]}, {"id": "A6.6.5", "lines": ["He saw the three approach like mountains black,", "Then raised a cloud of dust across their track."]}, {"id": "A6.6.6", "lines": ["The dragon roared till earth and mountain rang,", "Then at the eldest prince in fury sprang."]}, {"id": "A6.6.7", "lines": ["The eldest said, “A wise man knows his course;", "He does not choose to match a dragon’s force.”"]}, {"id": "A6.6.8", "lines": ["He turned his back at once and fled the place,", "Nor thought it wise such terror to embrace."]}, {"id": "A6.6.9", "lines": ["Then toward the second son the dragon wheeled;", "The prince drew up his bow and would not yield."]}, {"id": "A6.6.10", "lines": ["He bent the bowstring, ready for the fray,", "And spoke before the beast that barred his way:"]}, {"id": "A6.6.11", "lines": ["“When battle calls, what matters who the foe?", "Be lion, man, or dragon; let him show.”"]}, {"id": "A6.6.12", "lines": ["The youngest came and saw the dragon near,", "His voice rang out, commanding it to hear:"]}, {"id": "A6.6.13", "lines": ["“Turn back! You are a leopard on this way;", "The road of lions is no place to stay."]}, {"id": "A6.6.14", "lines": ["If Fereydoon’s great name has reached your ear,", "Then do not strive against his offspring here."]}, {"id": "A6.6.15", "lines": ["We three are all his sons, with our gorz raised,", "And battle-ready, neither cowed nor dazed."]}, {"id": "A6.6.16", "lines": ["Turn from our path; do not provoke your fate,", "Or ill-starred ruin on your head will wait.”"]}, {"id": "A6.6.17", "lines": ["He saw their several natures, judged each one,", "Then disappeared, his testing fully done."]}, {"id": "A6.6.18", "lines": ["He went aside, then as their father came,", "With royal rite and custom, still the same."]}, {"id": "A6.6.19", "lines": ["The koust resounded, elephants strode by;", "His hand displayed the ox-head gorz on high."]}, {"id": "A6.6.20", "lines": ["Behind him rode the chiefs in full array;", "The world seemed clenched within his fist that day."]}, {"id": "A6.6.21", "lines": ["At sight of him, the princes all alighted,", "And ran on foot to kiss the earth, delighted."]}, {"id": "A6.6.22", "lines": ["The elephants and koust fell still in place,", "While all three kissed the earth with humble grace."]}, {"id": "A6.6.23", "lines": ["He took each by the hand with fond embrace,", "And showed a father’s kindness face to face."]}, {"id": "A6.6.24", "lines": ["To each according to his measure due,", "He gave the rank that matched what he now knew."]}, {"id": "A6.6.25", "lines": ["Back in the noble palace, he gave praise", "To God, through good and ill in all his days."]}, {"id": "A6.6.26", "lines": ["Then called the three and set them, side by side,", "Upon the throne, in honor and in pride."]}, {"id": "A6.6.27", "lines": ["“That dreadful dragon, breathing world-wide flame,", "Was I, your father, hidden in that frame."]}, {"id": "A6.6.28", "lines": ["I sought to learn what manhood filled each breast;", "And now I know each nature by this test."]}, {"id": "A6.6.29", "lines": ["Now each shall bear a fitting royal name,", "To match his nature and preserve his fame."]}, {"id": "A6.6.30", "lines": ["The eldest sought his safety from the maw,", "So Salm, from safety, is the name I draw."]}, {"id": "A6.6.31", "lines": ["When flight was called for, he did not delay;", "He chose the safer road and turned away."]}, {"id": "A6.6.32", "lines": ["Who heeds no elephant or lion’s threat", "Is mad, not brave, whatever foes are met."]}, {"id": "A6.6.33", "lines": ["The second showed fierce ardor from the start;", "Fire only raised the courage in his heart."]}, {"id": "A6.6.34", "lines": ["So Tur shall be his name, a lion bold,", "Whom raging elephants could never hold."]}, {"id": "A6.6.35", "lines": ["True courage shown in place deserves the crown;", "The faint of heart can never win renown."]}, {"id": "A6.6.36", "lines": ["The youngest knew both haste and measured pause,", "And chose between them by the wisest laws."]}, {"id": "A6.6.37", "lines": ["Between the earth and fire he took his way,", "The middle path the wise choose day by day."]}, {"id": "A6.6.38", "lines": ["Brave, young, and wakeful-minded, he was known;", "In all the world no equal could be shown."]}, {"id": "A6.6.39", "lines": ["So Iraj is the fitting name to bear;", "May greatness crown his fortune everywhere."]}, {"id": "A6.6.40", "lines": ["At first he showed the lion in his heart;", "In hardship courage marked his chosen part."]}, {"id": "A6.6.41", "lines": ["Now gladly I shall name the brides you won,", "Three Arab pari-faced brides, each to one."]}, {"id": "A6.6.42", "lines": ["For Salm, fair Arezu became his bride,", "Her noble grace and beauty at his side."]}, {"id": "A6.6.43", "lines": ["Mah-e Azadeh, free in noble ways,", "Was joined to Tur, moon-bright before their gaze."]}, {"id": "A6.6.44", "lines": ["Fair Sahi went to Iraj, his to wed;", "Canopus bowed before her lovely head.”"]}, {"id": "A6.6.45", "lines": ["Then Fereydoon turned to the circling sky,", "To read what stars had written from on high."]}, {"id": "A6.6.46", "lines": ["The astrologers had shown each ordered sign;", "The charts lay open, tracing each design."]}, {"id": "A6.6.47", "lines": ["He studied there the stars of each known son,", "And read what fate had traced for every one."]}, {"id": "A6.6.48", "lines": ["For Salm, the Archer rose in heaven’s sphere,", "With Jupiter its lord, auspicious, clear."]}, {"id": "A6.6.49", "lines": ["For Tur the Lion rose; the Sun held sway,", "A bold, auspicious ruler on display."]}, {"id": "A6.6.50", "lines": ["For Iraj Cancer rose beneath Moon’s ray,", "And signs of war foretold a bitter day."]}, {"id": "A6.6.51", "lines": ["He saw that war among the brothers lay,", "And from his liver sighed in deep dismay."]}, {"id": "A6.6.52", "lines": ["He saw the sky turned against Iraj’s light,", "And for his bright-souled son foresaw the night."]}, {"id": "A6.7.1", "lines": ["With hidden things revealed before his sight,", "Fereydoon split the world in three by right."]}, {"id": "A6.7.2", "lines": ["Rum and Khavar made one great western share;", "Turan with Chin became the eastern pair."]}, {"id": "A6.7.3", "lines": ["Iran, with all the spearmen’s plain beside,", "Was made the third domain he set aside."]}, {"id": "A6.7.4", "lines": ["To Salm he gave an army for the way;", "Toward Khavar then the prince rode forth that day."]}, {"id": "A6.7.5", "lines": ["Upon a Kayanian throne he took his place,", "As Khavar-khodāy, lord of that wide space."]}, {"id": "A6.7.6", "lines": ["To Tur he gave Turan and Chin to hold,", "With troops beside him, warriors strong and bold."]}, {"id": "A6.7.7", "lines": ["He reached the Kayanian throne and took his seat,", "Then girded on his belt, his state complete."]}, {"id": "A6.7.8", "lines": ["He opened wide his hand; the nobles came,", "And brought him gems in honor of his name."]}, {"id": "A6.7.9", "lines": ["From then, as Turan-Shah, was he proclaimed,", "And through Turan that title won acclaim."]}, {"id": "A6.7.10", "lines": ["When Iraj’s turn arrived, his father chose", "Iran for him, where royal fortune rose."]}, {"id": "A6.7.11", "lines": ["The spearmen’s plain with Iran formed his share,", "With crown and royal throne beneath his care."]}, {"id": "A6.7.12", "lines": ["The sword, the signet, ivory throne were laid", "Before him, marks of sovereignty displayed."]}, {"id": "A6.7.13", "lines": ["The chiefs of wit and judgment, clear of eye,", "Acclaimed him Lord of Iran, Iran-khodāy."]}, {"id": "A6.7.14", "lines": ["In peace and happiness the brothers reigned,", "Each in the realm his father had ordained."]}, {"id": "A6.8.1", "lines": ["Much time passed on while Time its secret kept,", "And age upon wise Fereydoon slowly crept."]}, {"id": "A6.8.2", "lines": ["The dust of age fell on his springtime bloom,", "And dimmed youth’s garden with approaching gloom."]}, {"id": "A6.8.3", "lines": ["Such is the tale: when vigor yields to years,", "The body’s strength declines as age appears."]}, {"id": "A6.8.4", "lines": ["When darkness entered every great design,", "The mighty’s judgment sank into decline."]}, {"id": "A6.8.5", "lines": ["Then Salm’s heart altered from its former state;", "His judgment bent beneath desire and hate."]}, {"id": "A6.8.6", "lines": ["His heart in greed was drowned; he took advice,", "And judged his father’s division far from wise."]}, {"id": "A6.8.7", "lines": ["He hated that the golden throne was given", "To Iraj; envy left his spirit riven."]}, {"id": "A6.8.8", "lines": ["His face grew lined beneath the weight of spite;", "He brooded long upon his brother’s right."]}, {"id": "A6.8.9", "lines": ["He spoke the thoughts that long had burned unseen,", "Then sent to Chin, to Tur, an envoy keen."]}, {"id": "A6.8.10", "lines": ["“Live ever joyful, prosperous and strong,", "O Shahanshah of Turks and Chin, live long."]}, {"id": "A6.8.11", "lines": ["Though cypress-tall in stature we have grown,", "Our spirits proved too low to claim our own."]}, {"id": "A6.8.12", "lines": ["Now hear a tale no ancient age has known,", "No former generation ever shown:"]}, {"id": "A6.8.13", "lines": ["Three sons were we, all worthy of the crown,", "Yet fortune raised the youngest to renown."]}, {"id": "A6.8.14", "lines": ["In years and wisdom, eldest of the line,", "The foremost share by right should have been mine."]}, {"id": "A6.8.15", "lines": ["And if the throne must pass beyond my hand,", "Then you, not Iraj, should receive the land."]}, {"id": "A6.8.16", "lines": ["To Iraj went Iran, the spearmen’s plain,", "And Yemen joined beneath his royal reign."]}, {"id": "A6.8.17", "lines": ["To me came Rum and Khavar in the West;", "To you came Turks and Chin as your bequest."]}, {"id": "A6.8.18", "lines": ["I find no footing in the shares assigned;", "No sound judgment rules our father’s mind.”"]}, {"id": "A6.8.19", "lines": ["The swift envoy reached Turan’s royal lord,", "And spoke his message true, in full accord."]}, {"id": "A6.8.20", "lines": ["Then wind filled Tur’s rash, foolish head with rage;", "He sprang like a fierce lion from its cage."]}, {"id": "A6.8.21", "lines": ["He said, “When we were young, our father planned", "This fraud himself and dealt us each a land."]}, {"id": "A6.8.22", "lines": ["This tree our father planted with his hand;", "Its roots drink blood, its bitter branches stand."]}, {"id": "A6.8.23", "lines": ["You and I must meet and speak face to face,", "And weigh together how to press our case."]}, {"id": "A6.8.24", "lines": ["We must take counsel with discerning eyes,", "And see what course before our purpose lies."]}, {"id": "A6.8.25", "lines": ["Then choose a swift-tongued messenger of worth,", "A smooth and eloquent man of noble birth."]}, {"id": "A6.8.26", "lines": ["Let him go swiftly to the world-Shah’s side,", "And place these words before him, nothing hide."]}, {"id": "A6.8.27", "lines": ["Let him begin: ‘O wise, renowned king,", "Now hear the words your elder sons would bring.’"]}, {"id": "A6.8.28", "lines": ["No valiant man should bear a fraud so base,", "Nor patiently endure such deep disgrace."]}, {"id": "A6.8.29", "lines": ["And in this matter there must be no stay;", "No ease is gained by wasting time away.”"]}, {"id": "A6.8.30", "lines": ["The messenger returned with Tur’s reply;", "The hidden secret bared its face thereby."]}, {"id": "A6.8.31", "lines": ["From Rum came Salm, from Chin came Tur, agreed,", "Each answering now the other’s urgent need."]}, {"id": "A6.8.32", "lines": ["The brothers met and joined their minds as one,", "And shaped the course their anger had begun."]}, {"id": "A6.8.33", "lines": ["Their counsel seemed like honey to the tongue,", "Yet poison through its hidden sweetness clung."]}, {"id": "A6.8.34", "lines": ["They spoke together, hiding nothing now,", "And shared the secret thoughts behind each brow."]}, {"id": "A6.9.1", "lines": ["Then Salm and Tur called forth a Mobad wise,", "Sharp-witted, eloquent, with watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "A6.9.2", "lines": ["Discerning, quick to understand each word,", "He kept in mind each message that he heard."]}, {"id": "A6.9.3", "lines": ["They met apart, excluding every ear,", "And shaped their plan in counsel cold and clear."]}, {"id": "A6.9.4", "lines": ["Then Salm washed filial shame from both his eyes,", "And shaped the words that pride would now devise:"]}, {"id": "A6.9.5", "lines": ["“Go swiftly; let not wind or dust draw near;", "Outstrip them both upon your road from here."]}, {"id": "A6.9.6", "lines": ["Go straight to Fereydoon without delay;", "Let nothing turn you from the onward way."]}, {"id": "A6.9.7", "lines": ["Greet him for both of us, then tell him this:", "‘Fear God in both worlds; do not act amiss."]}, {"id": "A6.9.8", "lines": ["The young may hope to reach the years of age,", "But white hair never darkens on life’s stage."]}, {"id": "A6.9.9", "lines": ["Why linger as your span of life grows small,", "When age each day draws nearer to its fall?"]}, {"id": "A6.9.10", "lines": ["God gave you all the world to rule and keep,", "From shining sun down to the earth’s dark deep."]}, {"id": "A6.9.11", "lines": ["Yet you pursued your own desire and will,", "And slighted God’s command, and slight it still."]}, {"id": "A6.9.12", "lines": ["You chose the crooked path in each decree,", "And dealt without true justice to the three."]}, {"id": "A6.9.13", "lines": ["Three sons were yours, all wise and brave and grown,", "All three were worthy ornaments of throne."]}, {"id": "A6.9.14", "lines": ["No greater merit marked one son alone,", "That others should regard his rule their own."]}, {"id": "A6.9.15", "lines": ["One son you cast where savage dragons blow,", "One to the very clouds you made to go."]}, {"id": "A6.9.16", "lines": ["Beside you Iraj wears the royal crown,", "And cheers the eyes that age has weighted down."]}, {"id": "A6.9.17", "lines": ["One mother and one father gave us birth;", "Why should our claims be judged of lesser worth?"]}, {"id": "A6.9.18", "lines": ["O Shah whose justice earned you high regard,", "Such judgment leaves that honored title marred."]}, {"id": "A6.9.19", "lines": ["Tear from his head the diadem he wears,", "And end the sovereignty he falsely bears."]}, {"id": "A6.9.20", "lines": ["Then give him some small corner for his share,", "To sit estranged and wounded in despair."]}, {"id": "A6.9.21", "lines": ["Do this, and peace between us may abide;", "Then we shall rest content on either side."]}, {"id": "A6.9.22", "lines": ["But if you will not, armies shall advance", "From Turks and Chin, with Rum to lift the lance."]}, {"id": "A6.9.23", "lines": ["A mighty force with gorz will now descend,", "Till Iran and Iraj both meet their end.’”"]}, {"id": "A6.9.24", "lines": ["The Mobad heard, then kissed the ground and turned,", "And bore away the words that he had learned."]}, {"id": "A6.9.25", "lines": ["He set his foot in stirrup with such speed,", "Like fire wind-whipped, and urged his flying steed."]}, {"id": "A6.9.26", "lines": ["He reached the royal seat, where to his view", "A palace rose, high-towering in the blue;"]}, {"id": "A6.9.27", "lines": ["Clouds hid its lofty summit from his gaze;", "From ridge to ridge it climbed through mountain haze."]}, {"id": "A6.9.28", "lines": ["From peak to peak its vast enclosure ran,", "A court beyond the common works of man."]}, {"id": "A6.9.29", "lines": ["At gates sat chiefs; behind, the nobles stood,", "In ranked degree, as mighty warriors should."]}, {"id": "A6.9.30", "lines": ["On one side lions bound with leopards lay;", "On one, fierce war-elephants stood in array."]}, {"id": "A6.9.31", "lines": ["From gathered ranks arose a roaring sound,", "Like lions raging through the palace ground."]}, {"id": "A6.9.32", "lines": ["He thought, “This eyvan must be heaven’s sphere,", "With armies like the paris gathered here.”"]}, {"id": "A6.9.33", "lines": ["Wakeful attendants saw the envoy wait,", "And told the world-Shah who had reached the gate."]}, {"id": "A6.9.34", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Raise the curtain; let him through,", "And bring him to our presence as is due.”"]}, {"id": "A6.9.35", "lines": ["When the envoy then saw the Shah appear,", "His heart grew still with wonder and with fear."]}, {"id": "A6.9.36", "lines": ["A cypress was his form, his face the sun;", "In him the grace of kings seemed joined as one."]}, {"id": "A6.9.37", "lines": ["White camphor hair lay round a rose-red face;", "Age joined with majesty and royal grace."]}, {"id": "A6.9.38", "lines": ["His lips held smiles, his cheeks a modest glow;", "From royal lips sweet speech began to flow."]}, {"id": "A6.9.39", "lines": ["The envoy fell in homage to the ground,", "And kissed the earth in reverence profound."]}, {"id": "A6.9.40", "lines": ["The Shah then raised him with a gracious hand,", "And seated him where honored envoys stand."]}, {"id": "A6.9.41", "lines": ["He asked, “Do Salm and Tur, my sons, remain", "In health and joy throughout their distant reign?"]}, {"id": "A6.9.42", "lines": ["And have you borne the long road’s weary strain,", "Its steep descents and climbs across the plain?”"]}, {"id": "A6.9.43", "lines": ["The envoy said: “Long life and honor due,", "And none in rank take precedence of you."]}, {"id": "A6.9.44", "lines": ["All those you ask about are well and strong,", "And flourish through your name their whole lives long."]}, {"id": "A6.9.45", "lines": ["I am your lowly servant. Harsh the word", "Those angry, foolish princes bade be heard."]}, {"id": "A6.9.46", "lines": ["I bear no guilt.” The Shah said, “Speak it all.”", "The Mobad gave the message in the hall."]}, {"id": "A6.10.1", "lines": ["When all was heard, the Shah’s brain boiled with rage,", "Yet wisdom shaped the answer born of age:"]}, {"id": "A6.10.2", "lines": ["“Wise man, no plea or pardon do I need;", "I long expected such a word and deed."]}, {"id": "A6.10.3", "lines": ["Go tell those impure sons, corrupt and vain,", "Those Ahriman-taught minds where dark thoughts reign."]}, {"id": "A6.10.4", "lines": ["‘You have revealed the nature in your heart;", "Such words as these display your inward part."]}, {"id": "A6.10.5", "lines": ["If my own counsel vanished from your mind,", "Your wisdom too has wandered, lost and blind."]}, {"id": "A6.10.6", "lines": ["You have no shame, no fear of God in sight;", "You have abandoned every path of right."]}, {"id": "A6.10.7", "lines": ["Once black as pitch my hair, my stature high,", "A cypress form, a moon-face to the eye."]}, {"id": "A6.10.8", "lines": ["The turning heaven bent my back with age,", "Yet still it wheels the same upon its stage."]}, {"id": "A6.10.9", "lines": ["The same old Time that brought me to this state", "Will turn on you; no fortune conquers fate."]}, {"id": "A6.10.10", "lines": ["By God’s supreme and ever-holy name,", "By shining sun and earth of darkened frame,"]}, {"id": "A6.10.11", "lines": ["By throne and crown, by Venus and the Moon,", "I swear no crooked judgment shaped your boon."]}, {"id": "A6.10.12", "lines": ["No secret fraud or malice moved my heart;", "Deceit in your division played no part."]}, {"id": "A6.10.13", "lines": ["I called the wise, star-readers, Mobadan too,", "And asked each one what justice called us to."]}, {"id": "A6.10.14", "lines": ["For many days we weighed the world’s divide;", "We did not cast its shares like dust aside."]}, {"id": "A6.10.15", "lines": ["I sought the truth; no crookedness was found", "With head or root within the chosen ground."]}, {"id": "A6.10.16", "lines": ["The fear of God stood present in our sight;", "Throughout the world I sought the path of right."]}, {"id": "A6.10.17", "lines": ["This earth was given me, filled with humankind,", "And I would not share it out with crooked mind."]}, {"id": "A6.10.18", "lines": ["I said: “My three bright sons, my fortunate eyes,", "Shall each receive a realm beneath the skies.”"]}, {"id": "A6.10.19", "lines": ["To each I gave the portion that was due,", "With justice as the measure held in view."]}, {"id": "A6.10.20", "lines": ["If Ahriman has turned your hearts aside,", "And drawn your thoughts to crookedness and pride,"]}, {"id": "A6.10.21", "lines": ["Then ask if God, Yazdan who rules us all,", "Will bless such deeds or let their darkness fall."]}, {"id": "A6.10.22", "lines": ["Whatever seed you scatter, good or ill,", "That harvest in the end shall meet you still."]}, {"id": "A6.10.23", "lines": ["The wise have said; and I have learned it so;", "Our lasting home is not this world below."]}, {"id": "A6.10.24", "lines": ["Now greed has climbed upon your wisdom’s throne;", "Why make the Div’s fellowship all your own?"]}, {"id": "A6.10.25", "lines": ["I fear within this dragon’s claws you lie,", "And from your bodies both your souls will fly."]}, {"id": "A6.10.26", "lines": ["My hour to leave this world is drawing near;", "This is no time for anger to appear."]}, {"id": "A6.10.27", "lines": ["When greed is emptied from the human breast,", "What difference crown or dust, when all find rest?"]}, {"id": "A6.10.28", "lines": ["Who sells his brother to the dust below", "No longer can his deeds pure honor show."]}, {"id": "A6.10.29", "lines": ["Seek from Yazdan salvation when you stand", "On Reckoning’s day before His just command."]}, {"id": "A6.10.30", "lines": ["Make that provision for the road ahead,", "And lessen grief before your life has fled.’”"]}, {"id": "A6.10.31", "lines": ["The Mobad kissed the earth and turned away,", "Then rode as wind’s companion on his way."]}, {"id": "A6.10.32", "lines": ["When he had gone, the Shah resumed his seat,", "Called Iraj near, and told him of deceit."]}, {"id": "A6.10.33", "lines": ["He told him all his elder brothers planned:", "“They come for war from West and Chin’s far land."]}, {"id": "A6.10.34", "lines": ["The stars have given them this evil share;", "In wicked deeds they revel without care."]}, {"id": "A6.10.35", "lines": ["Their countries are a spring where harshness grows;", "Such is the bitter crop their soil bestows."]}, {"id": "A6.10.36", "lines": ["A brother stays your brother while your head", "Still bears the crown and color has not fled."]}, {"id": "A6.10.37", "lines": ["But once your colored face lies pale and dead,", "No brother circles then around your bed."]}, {"id": "A6.10.38", "lines": ["My two sons, from the world’s two shoulders wide,", "Have loosed their tongues against me from each side."]}, {"id": "A6.10.39", "lines": ["If you choose battle, open treasure’s gate;", "Prepare your arms before it grows too late."]}, {"id": "A6.10.40", "lines": ["Reach first for breakfast’s cup before they do;", "Delay, and they will eat their meal on you."]}, {"id": "A6.10.41", "lines": ["You need no worldly comrade at your side;", "Let harmlessness and truthfulness abide.”"]}, {"id": "A6.10.42", "lines": ["Then Iraj looked upon his father’s face,", "And answered him with calm and measured grace:"]}, {"id": "A6.10.43", "lines": ["“My lord, consider Time, like wind in flight;", "Why should the wise let grief obscure their sight?"]}, {"id": "A6.10.44", "lines": ["It withers pomegranate cheeks once bright,", "And dims the eyes of souls once filled with light."]}, {"id": "A6.10.45", "lines": ["At first comes treasure; later, grief befalls;", "Then all must leave this lodging’s transient walls."]}, {"id": "A6.10.46", "lines": ["Since dust must be our bed and brick our rest,", "Why plant revenge within the human breast?"]}, {"id": "A6.10.47", "lines": ["Why raise a tree that drinks its fill of blood,", "And bears revenge as fruit from root and bud?"]}, {"id": "A6.10.48", "lines": ["The earth has seen great rulers come and go,", "With sword, throne, signet set in royal show."]}, {"id": "A6.10.49", "lines": ["The wise before us, mighty in their day,", "Did not repay each wrong in harsher way."]}, {"id": "A6.10.50", "lines": ["If you permit, I will not answer ill", "With further evil born of angry will."]}, {"id": "A6.10.51", "lines": ["I need no crown, no throne, no royal cap;", "Without an army I will cross the gap."]}, {"id": "A6.10.52", "lines": ["I shall go speak to them as brother should,", "To turn their hearts from anger toward the good."]}, {"id": "A6.10.53", "lines": ["‘My lords, my brothers, dear as breath to me,", "Release the wrath you bear and let it flee."]}, {"id": "A6.10.54", "lines": ["Do not bear useless anger toward the king;", "Our father; what can such resentment bring?"]}, {"id": "A6.10.55", "lines": ["Why should ambition draw our souls to strife,", "When righteousness should govern mortal life?"]}, {"id": "A6.10.56", "lines": ["How did this world reward great Jamshid’s fame?", "At last it stripped the glory from his name."]}, {"id": "A6.10.57", "lines": ["His crown, his throne, his royal girdle fled;", "The world kept none when Jamshid joined the dead."]}, {"id": "A6.10.58", "lines": ["And we, both you and I, must face our fate;", "Time’s evil turns will reach us, soon or late."]}, {"id": "A6.10.59", "lines": ["Let us live well together, free from hate,", "And bar the gate when rancor lies in wait."]}, {"id": "A6.10.60", "lines": ["I shall turn bitter hearts from blood and strife;", "That vengeance better suits a righteous life.’”"]}, {"id": "A6.10.61", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Your brothers seek the sword;", "You seek a feast and friendship in accord."]}, {"id": "A6.10.62", "lines": ["The moon gives light; no wonder lies therein,", "For brightness is the nature born within."]}, {"id": "A6.10.63", "lines": ["Such wisdom in your answer fits your heart;", "You choose the bond of love, not war’s dark art."]}, {"id": "A6.10.64", "lines": ["But would a prudent man expose his head", "Where dragon jaws, with deadly venom, spread?"]}, {"id": "A6.10.65", "lines": ["The dragon gives what suits its nature best;", "From poison in its mouth no life finds rest."]}, {"id": "A6.10.66", "lines": ["Yet if this is the road your heart would choose,", "Then go with speed; no further time to lose."]}, {"id": "A6.10.67", "lines": ["Choose several attendants from the ranks,", "To ride beside you, guarding both your flanks."]}, {"id": "A6.10.68", "lines": ["Prepare whatever travel may demand,", "Then journey safely toward your brothers’ land."]}, {"id": "A6.10.69", "lines": ["And from the pain that weighs upon my heart,", "A letter I shall write before you part."]}, {"id": "A6.10.70", "lines": ["Perhaps I shall behold you safe and sound,", "And welcome you when homeward you are bound."]}, {"id": "A6.10.71", "lines": ["For when I see you, all my soul grows bright;", "Return to me in health and living light.”"]}, {"id": "A6.11.1", "lines": ["The aged Shah composed a letter then,", "And sent his counsel to those distant men."]}, {"id": "A6.11.2", "lines": ["He praised the God whose being shall remain,", "Eternal, far beyond decay and wane."]}, {"id": "A6.11.3", "lines": ["“This letter bears good counsel, plain and true,", "To two exalted suns who shine in view;"]}, {"id": "A6.11.4", "lines": ["Two warlike kings, both strong in sovereign might,", "One rules in Khavar, one in Chin by right."]}, {"id": "A6.11.5", "lines": ["From one who crossed the world from end to end,", "And learned what hidden signs and truths portend;"]}, {"id": "A6.11.6", "lines": ["Who bears the sword and heavy gorz in hand,", "And wears the royal glory of the land;"]}, {"id": "A6.11.7", "lines": ["Who turns black night to day before his eyes,", "And opens treasure past what hope could prize."]}, {"id": "A6.11.8", "lines": ["For whom hard trials have grown easy now,", "And fortune turns a bright and favoring brow."]}, {"id": "A6.11.9", "lines": ["I seek no crown, no treasure hoarded deep,", "No royal seat, no sovereign power to keep."]}, {"id": "A6.11.10", "lines": ["After long grief, one comfort I would know:", "That ease among my three dear sons may grow."]}, {"id": "A6.11.11", "lines": ["The brother whom your angry hearts accuse", "Has never sent you harm or harsh abuse."]}, {"id": "A6.11.12", "lines": ["He runs to you because he longs to see", "The brothers whom he loves in constancy."]}, {"id": "A6.11.13", "lines": ["He cast his kingship willingly aside,", "And chose your brotherhood instead of pride."]}, {"id": "A6.11.14", "lines": ["He left the throne and mounted for the road,", "His waist girt fast to serve at your abode."]}, {"id": "A6.11.15", "lines": ["He is the youngest: cherish and protect;", "The younger kin deserve love and respect."]}, {"id": "A6.11.16", "lines": ["As I have nourished body, strength, and frame,", "So nourish now his spirit just the same."]}, {"id": "A6.11.17", "lines": ["When he has stayed with you and shared your seat,", "Send him with honor home, his stay complete.”"]}, {"id": "A6.11.18", "lines": ["The Shah affixed his seal upon the scroll,", "And Iraj left the eyvan, heart made whole."]}, {"id": "A6.11.19", "lines": ["He took such few attendants as were due,", "Some old, some young, a modest retinue."]}, {"id": "A6.11.20", "lines": ["As Iraj neared them, nothing yet revealed", "The dark design his brothers’ hearts concealed."]}, {"id": "A6.11.21", "lines": ["By royal custom, both rode forth to greet,", "Their armies drawn in ranks, the train complete."]}, {"id": "A6.11.22", "lines": ["They saw his loving face, serene and bright,", "And both their faces opened at the sight."]}, {"id": "A6.11.23", "lines": ["Two men of strife received one gentle soul,", "Their tempers torn, while his remained whole."]}, {"id": "A6.11.24", "lines": ["Two hearts with rancor smoldered deep inside,", "While one remained composed and purified."]}, {"id": "A6.11.25", "lines": ["Together all three entered the screened hall,", "While troops remained beyond the curtain wall."]}, {"id": "A6.11.26", "lines": ["The army spoke of Iraj with one voice:", "For throne and crown, he was the rightful choice."]}, {"id": "A6.11.27", "lines": ["Their hearts grew restless, filled with love and grace;", "Their eyes stayed fixed upon their brother’s face."]}, {"id": "A6.11.28", "lines": ["In pairs they broke away across the plain,", "And Iraj’s name ran softly through the train:"]}, {"id": "A6.11.29", "lines": ["“Iraj alone deserves the royal name;", "No other merits crown or sovereign fame.”"]}, {"id": "A6.11.30", "lines": ["From the army’s edge Salm watched the murmurs spread,", "And every whisper weighed upon his head."]}, {"id": "A6.11.31", "lines": ["He reached his tent, his heart consumed by spite;", "Blood filled his liver, brows drawn hard and tight."]}, {"id": "A6.11.32", "lines": ["He cleared the court and drew Tur to his side,", "Then spoke in private, all the rest outside."]}, {"id": "A6.11.33", "lines": ["They spoke of kingship, crowns of every land,", "And weighed what power might yet remain in hand."]}, {"id": "A6.11.34", "lines": ["Then Salm said, “Why did all the soldiers stray", "In scattered pairs when Iraj came today?"]}, {"id": "A6.11.35", "lines": ["They rode as ours when first they left our side;", "Returned with hearts to Iraj newly tied."]}, {"id": "A6.11.36", "lines": ["Through all that road, each eye remained on him;", "Not one turned elsewhere till the light grew dim."]}, {"id": "A6.11.37", "lines": ["I feared him even before this display;", "What I have seen has deepened that dismay."]}, {"id": "A6.11.38", "lines": ["From now these armies all will say the same:", "No Shah but Iraj merits royal name."]}, {"id": "A6.11.39", "lines": ["Unless you tear his root out from the ground,", "He will drag you beneath your throne, fast bound.”"]}, {"id": "A6.11.40", "lines": ["They rose from counsel when the words were done,", "And plotted through the night until the sun."]}, {"id": "A6.12.1", "lines": ["When dawn drew back the curtain from the sun,", "The whitening light broke sleep for everyone."]}, {"id": "A6.12.2", "lines": ["Those two vain brothers warmed their hearts to crime,", "And cast off shame at dawn’s appointed time."]}, {"id": "A6.12.3", "lines": ["They rose and strode together from their place,", "And toward the screened pavilion set their pace."]}, {"id": "A6.12.4", "lines": ["When Iraj saw them coming on the way,", "His heart brimmed love; he ran to them that day."]}, {"id": "A6.12.5", "lines": ["All three together entered in the tent,", "And spoke of why they came and what it meant."]}, {"id": "A6.12.6", "lines": ["Tur said, “You are the youngest; why be king,", "And wear the crown that sovereign honors bring?"]}, {"id": "A6.12.7", "lines": ["Iran and Kayanian seat are yours to keep,", "While I stand armed where Turkic borders sweep."]}, {"id": "A6.12.8", "lines": ["Our elder suffers far in Khavar’s land;", "The crown is yours, with treasure at your hand."]}, {"id": "A6.12.9", "lines": ["Thus did our world-seeking father divide", "The world and turn it toward the youngest side.”"]}, {"id": "A6.12.10", "lines": ["Iraj heard Tur, then framed his answer clear;", "A purer answer rose for all to hear."]}, {"id": "A6.12.11", "lines": ["“Great brother, if you seek your heart’s true ease,", "Then seek repose and let your anger cease."]}, {"id": "A6.12.12", "lines": ["No crown, no royal seat, no lofty name;", "No Iranian army, no great fame."]}, {"id": "A6.12.13", "lines": ["I want no Iran, Khavar, Chin, or land,", "No kingship, no broad world beneath my hand."]}, {"id": "A6.12.14", "lines": ["Greatness whose end is darkness earns our tears;", "Such height is grief when final night appears."]}, {"id": "A6.12.15", "lines": ["Though heaven lift your saddle to the sky,", "A brick will be your pillow when you die."]}, {"id": "A6.12.16", "lines": ["Though once Iran’s high seat lay under me,", "Of crown and royal seat I now am free."]}, {"id": "A6.12.17", "lines": ["I yield to you the crown and royal seal;", "Bear me no rancor; let this quarrel heal."]}, {"id": "A6.12.18", "lines": ["Between us I seek neither war nor shame;", "Do not torment the spirit for my name."]}, {"id": "A6.12.19", "lines": ["May Time not bring you sorrow for my sake,", "Though I live far from every path you take."]}, {"id": "A6.12.20", "lines": ["I claim no more than younger brother’s part;", "Let manly conduct, not greed, command my heart.”"]}, {"id": "A6.12.21", "lines": ["Tur heard his brother; anger creased his brow;", "No peace could find a welcome in him now."]}, {"id": "A6.12.22", "lines": ["Iraj’s words found nothing he could prize;", "For truth held little value in his eyes."]}, {"id": "A6.12.23", "lines": ["In rage Tur struck his foot against the chair,", "Then sprang upright, his fury open, bare."]}, {"id": "A6.12.24", "lines": ["He seized the heavy chair of beaten gold,", "And raised it in his hands with savage hold."]}, {"id": "A6.12.25", "lines": ["He brought it down upon the prince’s head;", "And Iraj begged for life, then pleading said:"]}, {"id": "A6.12.26", "lines": ["“Have you no fear of God before your eyes?", "No shame before our father, old and wise?"]}, {"id": "A6.12.27", "lines": ["Do not kill me; God will turn the course", "Against you for my blood with righteous force."]}, {"id": "A6.12.28", "lines": ["Do not join the ranks of those who slay;", "Once I am gone, no trace of me will stay."]}, {"id": "A6.12.29", "lines": ["Would you approve, while you still draw your breath,", "Of taking life and sending one to death?"]}, {"id": "A6.12.30", "lines": ["Do not harm the ant that bears its grain;", "It loves sweet life and shrinks from death and pain."]}, {"id": "A6.12.31", "lines": ["I shall take one small corner for my share,", "And by my labor gather needed fare."]}, {"id": "A6.12.32", "lines": ["Why gird yourself to spill your brother’s blood?", "Why drown our aged father in grief’s flood?"]}, {"id": "A6.12.33", "lines": ["You sought the world; the world is yours today;", "Spill no blood; do not fight with God this way.”"]}, {"id": "A6.12.34", "lines": ["Tur heard, but not one answering word was said;", "Rage filled his heart and wind possessed his head."]}, {"id": "A6.12.35", "lines": ["He drew from his boot a water-hued blade;", "A shroud of blood across Iraj was laid."]}, {"id": "A6.12.36", "lines": ["That poison-bright and sharpened khanjar tore", "The Kayanian breast and opened up its core."]}, {"id": "A6.12.37", "lines": ["The slender cypress toppled to the earth;", "The royal girdle broke and lost its worth."]}, {"id": "A6.12.38", "lines": ["Blood streamed across his pomegranate face;", "The famed young sovereign fell from life’s embrace."]}, {"id": "A6.12.39", "lines": ["With khanjar Tur then cut off his crowned head,", "From elephant-like body drenched in red."]}, {"id": "A6.12.40", "lines": ["O world, you reared him cradled at your side,", "Then gave his precious life no place to hide."]}, {"id": "A6.12.41", "lines": ["I do not know whom secretly you prize;", "Your open deeds draw tears from mortal eyes."]}, {"id": "A6.12.42", "lines": ["You too, old man, whose wits are worn and thin,", "Why grieve for worldly things and burn within?"]}, {"id": "A6.12.43", "lines": ["When vengeance drives you blindly on to kill,", "Take these two tyrants as a warning still."]}, {"id": "A6.12.44", "lines": ["With musk and ambergris they filled the head;", "To aged Fereydoon the gift was sped."]}, {"id": "A6.12.45", "lines": ["“Here is the head you cherished and adored,", "Through him ancestral crown was once restored."]}, {"id": "A6.12.46", "lines": ["Now give him crown or throne; the deed is done:", "The Kayanian shade has left its son.”"]}, {"id": "A6.12.47", "lines": ["From that grim place the two unjust withdrew;", "One rode to Rum, one Chinward out of view."]}, {"id": "A6.13.1", "lines": ["Fereydoon watched the road with both eyes set,", "While crown and army yearned to greet him yet."]}, {"id": "A6.13.2", "lines": ["The time had come when Iraj should return,", "Yet what had happened, how could father learn?"]}, {"id": "A6.13.3", "lines": ["He had prepared a turquoise throne, and strung", "New jewels on the crown for one so young."]}, {"id": "A6.13.4", "lines": ["The people stood in readiness to greet,", "Their king with wine and song and music sweet."]}, {"id": "A6.13.5", "lines": ["They called tabiras, elephants in line,", "And dressed the land in splendor and design."]}, {"id": "A6.13.6", "lines": ["Both Shah and army sat their steeds and gazed,", "When on the road a darkening dust was raised."]}, {"id": "A6.13.7", "lines": ["From that dark dust a dromedary came,", "Its rider bowed with grief, his heart aflame."]}, {"id": "A6.13.8", "lines": ["He raised a cry; his grieving heart was torn,", "A golden casket at his side was borne."]}, {"id": "A6.13.9", "lines": ["Within the golden casket silk was spread,", "And in its folds lay Iraj’s severed head."]}, {"id": "A6.13.10", "lines": ["With wail and sigh, his face gone sickly pale,", "He came before Fereydoon with the tale."]}, {"id": "A6.13.11", "lines": ["They thought his dreadful tale could not be so,", "And raised the golden lid in fear and woe."]}, {"id": "A6.13.12", "lines": ["They drew the silken folds away in dread,", "And there before them lay young Iraj’s head."]}, {"id": "A6.13.13", "lines": ["Fereydoon fell from horseback to the ground,", "The army tore their robes; a wail went round."]}, {"id": "A6.13.14", "lines": ["Their faces black, their staring eyes went white,", "For they had hoped to see another sight."]}, {"id": "A6.13.15", "lines": ["So came the young king home from his long ride;", "The waiting army turned, its gladness died."]}, {"id": "A6.13.16", "lines": ["With banners torn and every koust laid low,", "The nobles’ faces blackened in their woe."]}, {"id": "A6.13.17", "lines": ["They blackened elephants, tabiras too,", "And stained the Arab horses mourning-blue."]}, {"id": "A6.13.18", "lines": ["The Shah and army walked the road instead,", "And cast the mourning dust upon each head."]}, {"id": "A6.13.19", "lines": ["The champions cried in agony and tore", "Their flesh for that brave prince they saw no more."]}, {"id": "A6.13.20", "lines": ["Such is the turning sky’s way with mankind:", "It shows its face, then leaves no trace behind."]}, {"id": "A6.13.21", "lines": ["Do not trust Time or take its love for true;", "No straightness from a bending bow is due."]}, {"id": "A6.13.22", "lines": ["Call Time your foe; it shows a loving face;", "Call Time your friend; it hides away its grace."]}, {"id": "A6.13.23", "lines": ["One counsel I will offer, plain and whole:", "Wash love of this world clean out of your soul."]}, {"id": "A6.13.24", "lines": ["Heart-scorched, both Shah and army cried in woe,", "Then turned toward the garden Iraj used to know."]}, {"id": "A6.13.25", "lines": ["There once the royal festivals were held,", "And banquet joy through all the garden swelled."]}, {"id": "A6.13.26", "lines": ["Fereydoon bore the young king’s head in pain,", "And entered, staggering beneath the strain."]}, {"id": "A6.13.27", "lines": ["He looked upon the royal throne with dread,", "And saw no crown above the severed head."]}, {"id": "A6.13.28", "lines": ["The royal pool and cypress met his eye,", "Flowering tree, willow, quince stood nearby."]}, {"id": "A6.13.29", "lines": ["He found the nobles’ festive ground laid bare,", "Black dust rose high to Saturn through the air."]}, {"id": "A6.13.30", "lines": ["He tore his hair and wounded his own face,", "While tears poured down within that ruined place."]}, {"id": "A6.13.31", "lines": ["He bound a blood-red girdle round his frame,", "And set the royal dwelling all aflame."]}, {"id": "A6.13.32", "lines": ["He tore the rose beds up, burned cypress trees,", "And closed joy’s eye, renouncing every ease."]}, {"id": "A6.13.33", "lines": ["He cradled Iraj’s head against his breast,", "Then turned toward Yazdan with his request:"]}, {"id": "A6.13.34", "lines": ["“O righteous Judge, behold this guiltless one;", "Look on the innocent; see what they have done."]}, {"id": "A6.13.35", "lines": ["His severed head lies here, exposed and bare;", "His body, torn by lions, lies elsewhere."]}, {"id": "A6.13.36", "lines": ["Burn both those unjust hearts till all their light", "Is gone, and every day they see is night."]}, {"id": "A6.13.37", "lines": ["Brand both their livers with so deep a scar", "That beasts will pity what their torments are."]}, {"id": "A6.13.38", "lines": ["O radiant Lord, one boon I ask of you:", "Grant me enough of life to see it through."]}, {"id": "A6.13.39", "lines": ["Let one renowned from Iraj’s seed arise,", "And gird for vengeance there before my eyes."]}, {"id": "A6.13.40", "lines": ["Once I have seen that day, then let it be:", "Let earth rise up and close itself on me.”"]}, {"id": "A6.13.41", "lines": ["So long he wept in anguish, day by day,", "That grass grew round him where in grief he lay."]}, {"id": "A6.13.42", "lines": ["The earth his bed, the dust beneath his head,", "His world-beholding eyes grew dark with dread."]}, {"id": "A6.13.43", "lines": ["He closed his court, yet still would call and cry:", "“O valiant youth, why did you have to die?"]}, {"id": "A6.13.44", "lines": ["No crowned king has been slain as you were slain,", "O famed young prince, the source of all my pain."]}, {"id": "A6.13.45", "lines": ["Ahriman has severed your noble head;", "The lions’ mouths became your shroud instead.”"]}, {"id": "A6.13.46", "lines": ["His cries rose bitter, tears would never cease,", "And robbed each beast of slumber and of peace."]}, {"id": "A6.13.47", "lines": ["Throughout the realm, both women and the men,", "With tear-filled eyes and blood-filled hearts met then."]}, {"id": "A6.13.48", "lines": ["So many days they passed beneath grief’s breath,", "That all of life itself seemed only death."]}, {"id": "A6.14.1", "lines": ["Some time had passed; the grieving Shah one day,", "Through Iraj’s shabestan he made his way."]}, {"id": "A6.14.2", "lines": ["Among the moon-faced women in that place,", "Mah-Afarid appeared, a maid of grace."]}, {"id": "A6.14.3", "lines": ["Iraj had loved her in his days of joy,", "And she was pregnant by the murdered boy."]}, {"id": "A6.14.4", "lines": ["The Shah perceived the child within her yet,", "And hope of vengeance in his heart was set."]}, {"id": "A6.14.5", "lines": ["When birth-time came, a daughter saw the light;", "His hope of vengeance now lay far from sight."]}, {"id": "A6.14.6", "lines": ["Yet tenderly he raised her in his care,", "And all the world in rearing took a share."]}, {"id": "A6.14.7", "lines": ["In luxury she grew, in grace and height,", "Her tulip face grew lovelier and bright."]}, {"id": "A6.14.8", "lines": ["From head to foot, so like Iraj she grew,", "It seemed the prince himself had come to view."]}, {"id": "A6.14.9", "lines": ["When marriage age arrived, her face was fair", "As Pleiades; and night-black was her hair."]}, {"id": "A6.14.10", "lines": ["Fereydoon chose Pashang, renowned by name,", "A husband worthy of her royal fame."]}, {"id": "A6.14.11", "lines": ["He was Fereydoon’s nephew, nobly bred,", "From Jamshid’s ancient line his lineage spread."]}, {"id": "A6.14.12", "lines": ["A champion worthy of the royal seat,", "In all that kingship asks of him complete."]}, {"id": "A6.14.13", "lines": ["The Shah then gave his granddaughter as bride", "To that renowned young prince of noble pride."]}, {"id": "A6.14.14", "lines": ["And after this, some further time went by,", "Beneath the ceaseless turning of the sky."]}, {"id": "A6.15.1", "lines": ["Mark well what wonder heaven’s blue vault concealed,", "When nine full months their hidden course revealed."]}, {"id": "A6.15.2", "lines": ["That virtuous lady brought a son to light,", "A child well-formed for crown and kingly right."]}, {"id": "A6.15.3", "lines": ["Straight from his mother they conveyed the boy,", "And brought him to the aged Shah with joy."]}, {"id": "A6.15.4", "lines": ["The bearer cried, “O crown-wearer, rejoice!", "Look on Iraj!” he called with joyful voice."]}, {"id": "A6.15.5", "lines": ["Fereydoon smiled; his ancient sorrow fled,", "As though Iraj had risen from the dead."]}, {"id": "A6.15.6", "lines": ["He clasped the child and prayed for healing grace:", "“Restore my sight, that I may see his face.”"]}, {"id": "A6.15.7", "lines": ["The righteous Lord took pity on his plight,", "And gave his darkened eyes restoring light."]}, {"id": "A6.15.8", "lines": ["He saw once more the shining world arise,", "Then fixed upon the child his opened eyes."]}, {"id": "A6.15.9", "lines": ["He cried, “May blessing crown this joyful day;", "Uproot our enemies’ hearts without delay!”"]}, {"id": "A6.15.10", "lines": ["They brought bright wine; the festive cups went round,", "And Manuchehr his name was then renowned."]}, {"id": "A6.15.11", "lines": ["“From mother pure and father pure has sprung", "A worthy branch, now fruitful, fair, and young.”"]}, {"id": "A6.15.12", "lines": ["He guarded Manuchehr with such great care,", "He would not let the wind pass near his heir."]}, {"id": "A6.15.13", "lines": ["The nurse who bore him never touched the ground;", "Pure musk beneath her steps was scattered round."]}, {"id": "A6.15.14", "lines": ["A silken canopy above him spread,", "And moved with nurse and child where they were led."]}, {"id": "A6.15.15", "lines": ["Years passed, and fortune brought him no ill sign;", "The stars withheld all malice from his line."]}, {"id": "A6.15.16", "lines": ["The aged Shah himself became his school", "In every skill a king must know to rule."]}, {"id": "A6.15.17", "lines": ["A golden throne and heavy gorz of might,", "A turquoise crown proclaimed his royal right."]}, {"id": "A6.15.18", "lines": ["The key to stores of jewels and of gold", "He placed within the young prince’s hold."]}, {"id": "A6.15.19", "lines": ["With crowns and torques, and royal headgear rare,", "And kingly belts befitting rank to wear."]}, {"id": "A6.15.20", "lines": ["Brocaded pavilions gleamed in varied dyes,", "With leopard skins and standards to the skies."]}, {"id": "A6.15.21", "lines": ["Arabian steeds in golden trappings came,", "And Indian swords in sheaths of golden flame."]}, {"id": "A6.15.22", "lines": ["Roman jowshans and helmets stood arrayed,", "With bows from Chakh and khadang arrows laid."]}, {"id": "A6.15.23", "lines": ["With shields from Chin and javelins set in rows,", "All gathered through long toil against his foes."]}, {"id": "A6.15.24", "lines": ["Fereydoon saw those treasures suited well", "To Manuchehr; his love no tongue could tell."]}, {"id": "A6.15.25", "lines": ["He called the champions, famed from near and wide,", "Who came for vengeance, gathering at his side."]}, {"id": "A6.15.26", "lines": ["They bowed to Manuchehr with homage due,", "And showered zabarjad before his view."]}, {"id": "A6.15.27", "lines": ["A new feast rose; the world rejoiced in peace,", "And sheep beside the wolf saw conflict cease."]}, {"id": "A6.15.28", "lines": ["There Gharan of the Kaveh line was seen,", "With Shirviyeh, the lion fierce and keen."]}, {"id": "A6.15.29", "lines": ["There Gashasb stood, the champion armed with steel,", "And Sahm, Nariman’s son, of fearless zeal."]}, {"id": "A6.15.30", "lines": ["There Qobad stood, and gold-helmed Keshvad too,", "With other famed men, steadfast, brave, and true."]}, {"id": "A6.15.31", "lines": ["So many renowned protectors gathered near,", "That all the army’s purpose now was clear."]}, {"id": "A6.15.32", "lines": ["When all the army stood in firm array,", "The ranks of vengeance closed around that day."]}, {"id": "A6.15.33", "lines": ["Above the gathered multitude he rose,", "Their king and leader, terror to his foes."]}, {"id": "A6.16.1", "lines": ["When Salm and Tur, those men with guilty hand,", "Heard Iran’s throne stood firm throughout the land,"]}, {"id": "A6.16.2", "lines": ["They learned the royal throne again shone bright,", "And saw their sinking star lose all its light."]}, {"id": "A6.16.3", "lines": ["They sat together, troubled, deep in thought,", "And saw what ruin their own deeds had brought."]}, {"id": "A6.16.4", "lines": ["Their days grew dark; one remedy remained:", "Fereydoon’s pardon, if it could be gained."]}, {"id": "A6.16.5", "lines": ["They chose a pure-hearted man, discreet and wise,", "Eloquent in speech, with shame before his eyes."]}, {"id": "A6.16.6", "lines": ["They told him all their fear and grave intent,", "And what rich gifts with him were to be sent."]}, {"id": "A6.16.7", "lines": ["They opened up the vaults of Khavar’s hoard,", "And drew a golden crown long ages stored."]}, {"id": "A6.16.8", "lines": ["They saw the terror of their fall from height,", "And searched old hoards for gifts of royal might."]}, {"id": "A6.16.9", "lines": ["They heaped the wagons high with musk, and filled", "Their loads with ambergris and scents distilled."]}, {"id": "A6.16.10", "lines": ["With brocade cloth and golden coins in sacks,", "And costly furs and silks in laden packs."]}, {"id": "A6.16.11", "lines": ["They decked the elephants along each side,", "And loaded wagons for the eastward ride."]}, {"id": "A6.16.12", "lines": ["From Khavar toward Iran the convoy pressed,", "With laden beasts and treasure richly dressed."]}, {"id": "A6.16.13", "lines": ["Each courtier added some yadgar rare,", "A treasured gift entrusted to their care."]}, {"id": "A6.16.14", "lines": ["When all was ready, forth the envoy went,", "With gifts and words the two kings jointly sent."]}, {"id": "A6.16.15", "lines": ["They charged him: “First invoke the Maker’s name,", "Then greet the Shah whose farr confirms his fame:"]}, {"id": "A6.16.16", "lines": ["‘May Fereydoon the Pahlevan live long,", "Whose royal farr from God has made him strong."]}, {"id": "A6.16.17", "lines": ["May head and body flourish, honored, bright;", "May mind rise past the heavens’ utmost height."]}, {"id": "A6.16.18", "lines": ["I bring the words of two who serve your throne,", "Your sons, who now their guilt and grief have known."]}, {"id": "A6.16.19", "lines": ["Their eyes brim tears from shame before your face;", "Their branded hearts now seek forgiveness’ grace."]}, {"id": "A6.16.20", "lines": ["They scarcely hoped forgiveness could draw near;", "Yet these are words they charged me to make clear:"]}, {"id": "A6.16.21", "lines": ["“Whoever sins must bear the heart’s own pain,", "And live in grief beneath his guilty stain."]}, {"id": "A6.16.22", "lines": ["Such fate was written for us from the start,", "And all that followed played its destined part."]}, {"id": "A6.16.23", "lines": ["No world-consuming lion, dragon great,", "Can wrench himself free from the snare of fate."]}, {"id": "A6.16.24", "lines": ["The impure Div drew both our hearts away", "From fear of God and reverence we should pay."]}, {"id": "A6.16.25", "lines": ["Evil counsel mastered every thought", "And made our very minds the home it sought."]}, {"id": "A6.16.26", "lines": ["Let ignorance be counted in our plea,", "For blindness led us where we should not be."]}, {"id": "A6.16.27", "lines": ["Let heaven also bear a share of blame;", "Now refuge, now affliction, still the same."]}, {"id": "A6.16.28", "lines": ["And third, the Div stood girded in our way", "For mischief, driving both our hearts astray."]}, {"id": "A6.16.29", "lines": ["If now the Shah will wash revenge away,", "Our darkened faith may brighten from this day."]}, {"id": "A6.16.30", "lines": ["Then send Manuchehr with a mighty train,", "And let him come to us across the plain."]}, {"id": "A6.16.31", "lines": ["Before his face like slaves we both shall stand,", "And bind ourselves to service at his hand."]}, {"id": "A6.16.32", "lines": ["The tree that vengeance caused at last to rise,", "Our tears shall wash its roots before our eyes."]}, {"id": "A6.16.33", "lines": ["We water it and tend it with our tears,", "Until it freshens after all these years."]}, {"id": "A6.16.34", "lines": ["When fresh again that tree stands in our sight,", "Then crown and treasure shall become his right.”’”"]}, {"id": "A6.17.1", "lines": ["The envoy came, his heart with words to tell,", "Whose head and tale no listener could foretell."]}, {"id": "A6.17.2", "lines": ["He reached the royal gate with gifts in tow,", "With elephants and treasure, all on show."]}, {"id": "A6.17.3", "lines": ["The Shah commanded Roman brocade spread,", "And decked the Kayanian crown for his head."]}, {"id": "A6.17.4", "lines": ["Upon the turquoise throne the Shah was seen,", "A cypress tall beneath the moon serene."]}, {"id": "A6.17.5", "lines": ["With torque and golden earrings richly wrought,", "He sat in royal state, with splendor fraught."]}, {"id": "A6.17.6", "lines": ["Beside him crowned Manuchehr took his place,", "The young king radiant in royal grace."]}, {"id": "A6.17.7", "lines": ["The nobles stood in two long ranks arrayed,", "In robes of gold, their ordered lines displayed."]}, {"id": "A6.17.8", "lines": ["Gold gorz shone and gold girdles caught the light,", "Till earth itself seemed doubled in their sight."]}, {"id": "A6.17.9", "lines": ["On one side chained were leopards, lions too;", "Across from them stood elephants in view."]}, {"id": "A6.17.10", "lines": ["Then Shapur came, whom all the court held great,", "And led Salm’s envoy through the royal gate."]}, {"id": "A6.17.11", "lines": ["The envoy saw that court, dismounted near,", "Then ran on foot to make his homage clear."]}, {"id": "A6.17.12", "lines": ["He saw the lofty throne and royal crown,", "Then rubbed his face upon the earth, bowed down."]}, {"id": "A6.17.13", "lines": ["Fereydoon bade a golden seat be placed,", "And there the envoy sat, with honor graced."]}, {"id": "A6.17.14", "lines": ["He bowed and said, “O splendor of the throne,", "Of crown and signet, king whose fame has grown,"]}, {"id": "A6.17.15", "lines": ["The earth beneath your throne becomes a bower;", "Time brightens through your fortune and your power."]}, {"id": "A6.17.16", "lines": ["We all are servants of the dust you tread;", "Through your wise counsel all our lives are fed.”"]}, {"id": "A6.17.17", "lines": ["At this good blessing, bright the Shah’s face grew,", "The envoy then spoke out the message due."]}, {"id": "A6.17.18", "lines": ["The fluent envoy spoke with practiced skill,", "Fereydoon heard him, silent, grave, and still."]}, {"id": "A6.17.19", "lines": ["He told the message of the blood-stained pair,", "But hid the truth their bloody deeds laid bare."]}, {"id": "A6.17.20", "lines": ["He shaped excuses for their bloody deed,", "And dressed their guilt as though compelled by need."]}, {"id": "A6.17.21", "lines": ["He asked that Manuchehr should come in train,", "With royal troops befitting crown and reign."]}, {"id": "A6.17.22", "lines": ["Before Manuchehr like slaves they would stand,", "Forever girded servants at his hand."]}, {"id": "A6.17.23", "lines": ["They pledged to yield the crown and royal throne,", "And make the greatness of the realm his own."]}, {"id": "A6.17.24", "lines": ["With dinars, brocade, treasure, jewels instead,", "They hoped to ransom blood their hands had shed."]}, {"id": "A6.17.25", "lines": ["The envoy spoke; the Shah heard every plea;", "His answer fit the lock as fits a key."]}, {"id": "A6.18.1", "lines": ["The world-ruling Shah heard what they had sent,", "Those two corrupt sons’ message and intent."]}, {"id": "A6.18.2", "lines": ["He asked the envoy, “Can a hand conceal", "The sun from mortal eyes beneath heaven’s wheel?"]}, {"id": "A6.18.3", "lines": ["The hearts those wicked men concealed from sight", "Now blaze more plainly than the noonday light."]}, {"id": "A6.18.4", "lines": ["I heard each word you carried to my throne;", "Now hear the answer I will make my own."]}, {"id": "A6.18.5", "lines": ["Tell those two shameless men, corrupt and base,", "Those unjust sons whose love has left no trace:"]}, {"id": "A6.18.6", "lines": ["Their empty speech is worth no further breath;", "Why lengthen words concerning guilt and death?"]}, {"id": "A6.18.7", "lines": ["If love for Manuchehr has touched your breast,", "Where lies famed Iraj? Where does his body rest?"]}, {"id": "A6.18.8", "lines": ["His body fed the beasts that roam the plain;", "A narrow casket held what did remain."]}, {"id": "A6.18.9", "lines": ["With Iraj slain and cast aside from view,", "You now prepare for Manuchehr’s blood too."]}, {"id": "A6.18.10", "lines": ["You will not see his face except in fight,", "A steel helm on his head, his army bright."]}, {"id": "A6.18.11", "lines": ["His gorz in hand, Kaveh’s banner spread,", "Horse-hooves will dye the earth a purple red."]}, {"id": "A6.18.12", "lines": ["Gharan will lead, the battle-seeking chief;", "Stout Shapur backs the ranks and brings relief."]}, {"id": "A6.18.13", "lines": ["At one hand Shidush, proven in the fray;", "Fierce Shirviyeh the lion shows the way."]}, {"id": "A6.18.14", "lines": ["There Sahm, son of Nariman, will stand;", "And Sarv of Yemen guide the war he planned."]}, {"id": "A6.18.15", "lines": ["With your blood we will drench, from leaf to fruit,", "The tree of vengeance sprung from Iraj’s root."]}, {"id": "A6.18.16", "lines": ["Till now his vengeance waited out of sight;", "The back of Time had never yet stood right."]}, {"id": "A6.18.17", "lines": ["Nor would it have been fitting, in my age,", "To start the war against my sons in rage."]}, {"id": "A6.18.18", "lines": ["But from the tree your hands tore from the ground,", "A fruitful branch has risen, green and sound."]}, {"id": "A6.18.19", "lines": ["Now like a raging lion he draws near,", "Girt tight for Iraj’s vengeance without fear."]}, {"id": "A6.18.20", "lines": ["With famed sepahbods marching in his train,", "With Sahm and Gashasb riding to the plain."]}, {"id": "A6.18.21", "lines": ["An army spread from mountain crest to crest,", "Its pounding feet will rob the world of rest."]}, {"id": "A6.18.22", "lines": ["So, next you ask the Shah to cleanse his heart", "Of vengeance, and forgive your guilty part,"]}, {"id": "A6.18.23", "lines": ["Because the turning sphere bewildered mind", "And darkened love, leaving right thought behind."]}, {"id": "A6.18.24", "lines": ["I heard the guilty pleas you chose to frame;", "Now hear the judgment answering your claim."]}, {"id": "A6.18.25", "lines": ["Who sows injustice reaps no joyful day;", "No paradise will brighten up his way."]}, {"id": "A6.18.26", "lines": ["If God forgives, what cleansing can erase", "The brother’s blood that brands you with disgrace?"]}, {"id": "A6.18.27", "lines": ["Whoever bears a reasoning soul can see:", "No guilty plea can make the guilty free."]}, {"id": "A6.18.28", "lines": ["Before the radiant Lord you feel no shame;", "Black-hearted, soft of tongue, you plead your claim."]}, {"id": "A6.18.29", "lines": ["In both the worlds your evil earns its due;", "The just God’s judgment will return to you."]}, {"id": "A6.18.30", "lines": ["And third: you sent an ivory throne ornate,", "Great elephants, a turquoise crown, rich freight."]}, {"id": "A6.18.31", "lines": ["And bags of varied jewels, rich and bright;", "Shall treasure wash away the blood from sight?"]}, {"id": "A6.18.32", "lines": ["Shall I sell a crowned son’s head for gold?", "Let crown and throne and farr be bought and sold!"]}, {"id": "A6.18.33", "lines": ["Who takes a price for what no price can buy", "Is worse than dragon’s young beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "A6.18.34", "lines": ["Shall people say, ‘His cherished son was slain;", "The aged father priced that life for gain?’"]}, {"id": "A6.18.35", "lines": ["We have no need of wealth you send our way;", "How long must empty speeches fill the day?"]}, {"id": "A6.18.36", "lines": ["While this gray-headed father yet can stand,", "Revenge stays girded fast around my hand."]}, {"id": "A6.18.37", "lines": ["Your message I have heard; my answer know;", "Take every word, and quickly rise and go.”"]}, {"id": "A6.18.38", "lines": ["The envoy heard; his courage ebbed away,", "And saw Manuchehr crowned in bright array."]}, {"id": "A6.18.39", "lines": ["He withered, trembling as he left his place,", "Then mounted swiftly, fear upon his face."]}, {"id": "A6.18.40", "lines": ["With clear-eyed mind he saw what lay ahead,", "And read the fate that hovered overhead."]}, {"id": "A6.18.41", "lines": ["He knew the turning sphere, before too long,", "Would wrinkle its brow at Salm and Tur’s wrong."]}, {"id": "A6.18.42", "lines": ["He rode away like storm-wind from the hall,", "His heart in doubt what fate would next befall."]}, {"id": "A6.18.43", "lines": ["When Khavar rose at last before his sight,", "He saw a royal pavilion gleam bright."]}, {"id": "A6.18.44", "lines": ["He neared the curtain at the royal gate;", "Within, the lord of Khavar held his state."]}, {"id": "A6.18.45", "lines": ["A silken tent was fashioned broad and high,", "Its surface starred like heaven’s midnight sky."]}, {"id": "A6.18.46", "lines": ["The kings of two great realms sat side by side;", "They heard their envoy waited just outside."]}, {"id": "A6.18.47", "lines": ["The chamberlain came out at once to bring", "The weary envoy inward to the king."]}, {"id": "A6.18.48", "lines": ["They set a fresh seat, then began to seek", "News of the new-made king, and let him speak."]}, {"id": "A6.18.49", "lines": ["They questioned him concerning throne and crown,", "And every mark of sovereignty and renown."]}, {"id": "A6.18.50", "lines": ["Of Fereydoon, his army, fighting men,", "His realm and all the strength assembled then."]}, {"id": "A6.18.51", "lines": ["They asked how turning heaven showed its cheer", "To Manuchehr, and whether fortune drew near."]}, {"id": "A6.18.52", "lines": ["“Who are the nobles? Who gives counsel best?", "How vast the treasure, who guards all the rest?”"]}, {"id": "A6.18.53", "lines": ["The envoy said, “No one who knows bright spring", "Has seen such splendor round another king."]}, {"id": "A6.18.54", "lines": ["A joyous spring, a paradise, whose ground", "Is ambergris, whose bricks with gold abound."]}, {"id": "A6.18.55", "lines": ["The highest heaven forms his palace roof;", "His smiling face gives paradise its proof."]}, {"id": "A6.18.56", "lines": ["No meadow reaches to that palace crest;", "No garden matches that broad field’s full breast."]}, {"id": "A6.18.57", "lines": ["I neared the hall; its summit rose so far,", "It seemed to whisper secrets to each star."]}, {"id": "A6.18.58", "lines": ["On one side elephants; a lion pride", "Stood opposite, the world spread far and wide."]}, {"id": "A6.18.59", "lines": ["Gold thrones were borne on elephants in line;", "Jeweled collars clasped the male lions fine."]}, {"id": "A6.18.60", "lines": ["Before the elephants the drummers cry,", "While brazen karnays thunder to the sky."]}, {"id": "A6.18.61", "lines": ["The field seemed boiling with their vast array;", "The earth roared upward to the sky that day."]}, {"id": "A6.18.62", "lines": ["I stood before the honored Shah, and saw", "A turquoise throne, immense, that struck with awe."]}, {"id": "A6.18.63", "lines": ["Upon it sat the monarch like the moon,", "A ruby crown above him, bright as noon."]}, {"id": "A6.18.64", "lines": ["His hair was camphor, rose-leaf was his face;", "His heart sought modesty, his tongue had grace."]}, {"id": "A6.18.65", "lines": ["The world’s heart hung between its hope and fear;", "It seemed that Jamshid lived once more and near."]}, {"id": "A6.18.66", "lines": ["Manuchehr, tall as cypress, sat upright,", "Like Tahmuras, who bound the Divs in might."]}, {"id": "A6.18.67", "lines": ["He sat at Fereydoon’s right hand in view,", "As if the Shah’s own heart and voice shone through."]}, {"id": "A6.18.68", "lines": ["Among the smiths stood Kaveh, famed and tried;", "His battle-tested son stood at his side."]}, {"id": "A6.18.69", "lines": ["His name was Gharan, battle-proven, keen,", "A wakeful army-breaker, fierce in mien."]}, {"id": "A6.18.70", "lines": ["Sarv, Yemen’s king, gave counsel with great care;", "Victorious Gashasb watched the treasure rare."]}, {"id": "A6.18.71", "lines": ["No reckoning could number treasure’s store;", "No man had seen such splendor there before."]}, {"id": "A6.18.72", "lines": ["Around the palace troops stood two ranks deep,", "With golden gorz and golden helms to keep."]}, {"id": "A6.18.73", "lines": ["Gharan commanded all the army’s van,", "A watchful breaker of the foeman’s plan."]}, {"id": "A6.18.74", "lines": ["Shirviyeh, tearing lion of the field;", "And Shapur, elephant-brave, who would not yield."]}, {"id": "A6.18.75", "lines": ["When kousts are strapped to elephants’ broad backs,", "The air turns ebony above their tracks."]}, {"id": "A6.18.76", "lines": ["If such a force comes marching to our land,", "The hills sink low, the plains like mountains stand."]}, {"id": "A6.18.77", "lines": ["Their hearts seek vengeance, brows with anger scored;", "They wish for nothing but the drawn sword.”"]}, {"id": "A6.18.78", "lines": ["He told them all that he had seen and heard,", "And Fereydoon’s answer, every single word."]}, {"id": "A6.18.79", "lines": ["The two oppressors’ hearts were wrung with pain;", "Their faces turned lapis beneath the strain."]}, {"id": "A6.18.80", "lines": ["They sat and sought each path that thought could frame;", "Their counsel had no head or foot or name."]}, {"id": "A6.18.81", "lines": ["Then Tur told elder Salm, “Let peace be gone;", "Hide joy away; the hour of war draws on."]}, {"id": "A6.18.82", "lines": ["We must not let this lion cub grow strong,", "Sharp-toothed and bold enough to right the wrong."]}, {"id": "A6.18.83", "lines": ["How could that famed youth ever lack in skill,", "With Fereydoon himself to train his will?"]}, {"id": "A6.18.84", "lines": ["When grandfather and grandson counsel near,", "Their alchemy will make the outcome clear."]}, {"id": "A6.18.85", "lines": ["We must prepare for war before the hour;", "Make haste, for waiting only feeds his power.”"]}, {"id": "A6.18.86", "lines": ["They sent their horsemen racing from the court;", "From Chin and Khavar troops came in support."]}, {"id": "A6.18.87", "lines": ["The whole land rang with talk of their array;", "From every quarter people turned their way."]}, {"id": "A6.18.88", "lines": ["Their army stretched beyond all measured bound;", "No eye could find its limit on the ground."]}, {"id": "A6.18.89", "lines": ["Toward Iran the two great armies passed,", "In jowshans, helms that hid each rider fast."]}, {"id": "A6.18.90", "lines": ["With massive elephants and treasure spread,", "The two blood-spillers marched with vengeance fed."]}, {"id": "A6.19.1", "lines": ["The Shah was told, “Their army has drawn near,", "This side of Jihun, armed for battle here.”"]}, {"id": "A6.19.2", "lines": ["He summoned Manuchehr and charged him, “Lead", "The army to the plain with measured speed.”"]}, {"id": "A6.19.3", "lines": ["He said, “When fortune favors some young man,", "A careless sheep may walk into his plan."]}, {"id": "A6.19.4", "lines": ["With hunter waiting farther down its track,", "A hunting leopard drives it from the back."]}, {"id": "A6.19.5", "lines": ["But patience, judgment, wisdom: with the snare", "These draw the raging lion from its lair."]}, {"id": "A6.19.6", "lines": ["Whoever works an evil earns his due;", "Hot iron burns the hand that holds it too.”"]}, {"id": "A6.19.7", "lines": ["Manuchehr said, “What foe could seek your fall,", "O Shah whom fortune raises over all?"]}, {"id": "A6.19.8", "lines": ["Unless malignant Time itself should rise,", "Who sought your life would cast away his prize."]}, {"id": "A6.19.9", "lines": ["I bind my Roman jowshan, scale on scale,", "And will not loose it while these foes prevail."]}, {"id": "A6.19.10", "lines": ["For Iraj’s vengeance I will lead the way,", "And raise our army’s dust to cloud the day."]}, {"id": "A6.19.11", "lines": ["Among their whole assembly I see none", "Whom I would count a man when war is won.”"]}, {"id": "A6.19.12", "lines": ["He ordered Gharan, battle-keen and bold,", "To lead the vanguard and the front to hold."]}, {"id": "A6.19.13", "lines": ["The royal pavilion moved onto the plain,", "With all its ordered splendor in the train."]}, {"id": "A6.19.14", "lines": ["The blessed royal standard followed near,", "As warriors massed around it, spear by spear."]}, {"id": "A6.19.15", "lines": ["Then men upon men poured out, rank by rank,", "Until the earth beneath their numbers sank."]}, {"id": "A6.19.16", "lines": ["The hills and plains became a boiling tide,", "So vast the army rolled from side to side."]}, {"id": "A6.19.17", "lines": ["The daylight darkened under clouds of dust,", "As hoof and wheel rolled onward in their thrust."]}, {"id": "A6.19.18", "lines": ["The sun itself grew lapis in the sky,", "Its face transformed as dust-clouds mounted high."]}, {"id": "A6.19.19", "lines": ["The army’s roar struck even sharp ears numb,", "So loud the marching thunder had become."]}, {"id": "A6.19.20", "lines": ["The cries of Arab horses mounted higher", "Than tabiras that shook the plain with fire."]}, {"id": "A6.19.21", "lines": ["Two ranks of battle elephants stretched wide,", "Two thirds of a farsang, marching side by side."]}, {"id": "A6.19.22", "lines": ["Of these, full sixty bore gold thrones on high,", "With varied jewels blazing to the eye."]}, {"id": "A6.19.23", "lines": ["Three hundred more bore baggage for the train,", "And moved beneath their burdens on the plain."]}, {"id": "A6.19.24", "lines": ["Three hundred battle elephants came last,", "In armor bound from forehead downwards fast."]}, {"id": "A6.19.25", "lines": ["Their bodies vanished under plate and gear;", "Except their eyes, no naked flesh showed clear."]}, {"id": "A6.19.26", "lines": ["From Tammisheh the army reached the plain,", "Its ordered ranks advancing in a chain."]}, {"id": "A6.19.27", "lines": ["Bold Gharan led three hundred thousand horse,", "All fighting riders gathered in that force."]}, {"id": "A6.19.28", "lines": ["Famed men in jowshans, heavy gorz in hand,", "Like raging lions charged to the command."]}, {"id": "A6.19.29", "lines": ["Their purple swords flashed brightly through the sky;", "Kaveh’s standard streamed before them high."]}, {"id": "A6.19.30", "lines": ["Then elephant-bodied Gharan rode beside", "Manuchehr from Narvan’s woods in martial pride."]}, {"id": "A6.19.31", "lines": ["Manuchehr viewed his army, broad and deep,", "And spread the battle lines in ordered sweep."]}, {"id": "A6.19.32", "lines": ["He gave the left to Gashasb for the fight,", "And Sahm with Qobad marshaled on the right."]}, {"id": "A6.19.33", "lines": ["He held the center, Sarv beside him near,", "The wise king’s counselor without a peer."]}, {"id": "A6.19.34", "lines": ["Among the troops Manuchehr shone in light,", "Like moon among a gathering at night."]}, {"id": "A6.19.35", "lines": ["Gharan commanded all the army’s ranks;", "And Sahm stood champion, guarding both the flanks."]}, {"id": "A6.19.36", "lines": ["Qobad led forth the vanguard, scouts in hand;", "The ambush chief sprang from Taliman’s band."]}, {"id": "A6.19.37", "lines": ["The army stood adorned just like a bride,", "With lions armed and kousts arrayed beside."]}, {"id": "A6.19.38", "lines": ["Swift riders told both Salm and Tur with dread:", "“Iran’s ranks from forest over plain have spread.”"]}, {"id": "A6.19.39", "lines": ["The two blood-spillers gathered all their force,", "Their hearts set hard upon a bloody course."]}, {"id": "A6.19.40", "lines": ["They set their army on the battlefield,", "With sea and Alanons fortress as shield."]}, {"id": "A6.19.41", "lines": ["Once more Qobad rode out beyond the line;", "Tur saw him there and charged with dark design."]}, {"id": "A6.19.42", "lines": ["He said, “Go back and tell your youthful king:", "‘O fatherless new Shah, hear what I bring."]}, {"id": "A6.19.43", "lines": ["Though Iraj left a daughter as his heir,", "What right have you the royal crown to wear?’”"]}, {"id": "A6.19.44", "lines": ["Qobad replied, “Each word I heard from you,", "To Manuchehr I shall repeat it true."]}, {"id": "A6.19.45", "lines": ["But if you think awhile, your reasoning heart", "May settle straight and wisdom play its part."]}, {"id": "A6.19.46", "lines": ["You will see your task has passed all bound,", "And rue the reckless words you cast around."]}, {"id": "A6.19.47", "lines": ["No wonder beasts both wild and tame should grieve,", "And mourn you, never finding a reprieve."]}, {"id": "A6.19.48", "lines": ["From Narvan’s forest over Chin entire", "Stand warriors whose vengeance burns like fire."]}, {"id": "A6.19.49", "lines": ["When purple swords beside Kaveh’s banner rise,", "The sight will strike the courage from your eyes."]}, {"id": "A6.19.50", "lines": ["Then terror will confound both heart and will;", "You will not know the depth from lofty hill.”"]}, {"id": "A6.19.51", "lines": ["Qobad returned and told the youthful king", "Each word that battle-seeking Tur would fling."]}, {"id": "A6.19.52", "lines": ["Manuchehr laughed: “A fool alone speaks so,", "With battle near and armies set to go."]}, {"id": "A6.19.53", "lines": ["Praise to Yazdan who rules both worlds in might,", "Who knows the hidden and what stands in sight."]}, {"id": "A6.19.54", "lines": ["He knows that Iraj stands within my line;", "And blessed Fereydoon confirms the sign."]}, {"id": "A6.19.55", "lines": ["When battle joins, my lineage and my worth", "Will stand revealed before the watching earth."]}, {"id": "A6.19.56", "lines": ["By Him who rules the sun and moon on high,", "Before Tur blinks, my hand shall make reply;"]}, {"id": "A6.19.57", "lines": ["His head, cut clean away from trunk and frame,", "I shall display, avenging Iraj’s name."]}, {"id": "A6.19.58", "lines": ["I shall avenge my blessed ancestor’s death,", "And end his kingship with his final breath.”"]}, {"id": "A6.19.59", "lines": ["He ordered then the banquet cloth be spread,", "With wine and music where the warriors fed."]}, {"id": "A6.20.1", "lines": ["When the bright world grew dark, around the plain", "The scouts spread out to watch the hostile train."]}, {"id": "A6.20.2", "lines": ["Before the army Gharan held the line,", "With Sarv of Yemen, wise in war’s design."]}, {"id": "A6.20.3", "lines": ["A cry arose before the whole array:", "“O Shah’s famed warriors, yield to none today!"]}, {"id": "A6.20.4", "lines": ["Fight hard; this war is Ahriman’s own,", "With pain and vengeance, blood by blood is sown."]}, {"id": "A6.20.5", "lines": ["Gird up your waists and keep yourselves awake;", "Keep faith with the Creator for His sake."]}, {"id": "A6.20.6", "lines": ["Whoever falls upon this battlefield", "Shall reach bright heaven, cleansed of sin and healed."]}, {"id": "A6.20.7", "lines": ["Who spills the blood of Rum and Chin shall claim", "Their land, and win a lasting honored name."]}, {"id": "A6.20.8", "lines": ["Their good name shall endure through every age,", "With sacred farr to grace their lasting page."]}, {"id": "A6.20.9", "lines": ["From Shah, the crown and throne shall be their gain;", "From chief, bright gold; from God, good fortune’s reign."]}, {"id": "A6.20.10", "lines": ["When pure white day stands radiant in the light,", "And sun has crossed two portions of its flight,"]}, {"id": "A6.20.11", "lines": ["Then gird yourselves as warriors battle-tried,", "With gorz and Kabul khanjar at your side."]}, {"id": "A6.20.12", "lines": ["Each man must hold the place that bears his name;", "Let none break rank in pursuit of fame.”"]}, {"id": "A6.20.13", "lines": ["The chiefs and nobles stood, a fearless wall,", "And heard their lion-hearted leader’s call."]}, {"id": "A6.20.14", "lines": ["They said, “We are your slaves; while we yet live,", "Our lives are for the Shah and his to give."]}, {"id": "A6.20.15", "lines": ["Whatever he commands, that deed is done;", "We shall make earth a Jihun before war is won.”"]}, {"id": "A6.20.16", "lines": ["Then to their tents the warriors returned,", "Their hearts set hard on vengeance as they burned."]}, {"id": "A6.20.17", "lines": ["When dawn rose bright and night withdrew from sight,", "Manuchehr rose beneath the banners’ height."]}, {"id": "A6.20.18", "lines": ["In Roman helm and jowshan all arrayed,", "He held the center, sword and steel displayed."]}, {"id": "A6.20.19", "lines": ["The army raised one cry beneath the sky,", "And lifted spears into the clouds on high."]}, {"id": "A6.20.20", "lines": ["Their heads were filled with wrath, their brows with strain,", "As though their march rolled thunder through the plain."]}, {"id": "A6.20.21", "lines": ["He set the left, the right, the heart, each wing,", "All ordered as befitted Iran’s king."]}, {"id": "A6.20.22", "lines": ["The earth became a ship on water’s sweep,", "As though it hastened toward the drowning deep."]}, {"id": "A6.20.23", "lines": ["The signal sounded from the bull-elephant’s height;", "The earth swayed like the Nile beneath their might."]}, {"id": "A6.20.24", "lines": ["Before the elephants the drummers cried,", "While roaring, seething beasts surged at their side."]}, {"id": "A6.20.25", "lines": ["From karnay blast and wailing karnay sound,", "One might have thought a feast had filled the ground."]}, {"id": "A6.20.26", "lines": ["They moved like mountains surging through the fray;", "Both armies roared and thundered on their way."]}, {"id": "A6.20.27", "lines": ["The plain became a sea of crimson flow,", "As tulips bloomed across the earth below."]}, {"id": "A6.20.28", "lines": ["The elephants stood fixed in pools of red,", "Like bijadeh columns where the armies bled."]}, {"id": "A6.20.29", "lines": ["The field belonged to Iran’s youthful king,", "And love for him filled every living thing."]}, {"id": "A6.20.30", "lines": ["Thus battle raged until dark night was spread,", "And the bright sun withdrew its golden head."]}, {"id": "A6.20.31", "lines": ["Time never holds one course for long, but brings", "Now honey and sweet wine, now poison’s stings."]}, {"id": "A6.20.32", "lines": ["The hearts of Salm and Tur with anger burned;", "Toward a night assault their counsel turned."]}, {"id": "A6.20.33", "lines": ["When night gave way to day, no battle rose;", "The two fierce chiefs chose waiting over blows."]}, {"id": "A6.21.1", "lines": ["When half the shining day had passed from sight,", "Both brothers’ hearts burned hot with hate and spite."]}, {"id": "A6.21.2", "lines": ["Together they devised a reckless scheme,", "A useless counsel born of hatred’s dream."]}, {"id": "A6.21.3", "lines": ["“When night comes down, we launch a sudden raid,", "And flood the plain with blood beneath the blade.”"]}, {"id": "A6.21.4", "lines": ["Then night arrived; the day withdrew from view,", "And darkness veiled the world in deepest hue."]}, {"id": "A6.21.5", "lines": ["The two unjust men formed their ranks that night,", "And longed to launch the raid before first light."]}, {"id": "A6.21.6", "lines": ["The scouts learned all and hastened from the field,", "And to the Shah the hidden plan revealed."]}, {"id": "A6.21.7", "lines": ["They reached the Shah: “Raise up the battle line;", "The foe will strike by night; that is their design.”"]}, {"id": "A6.21.8", "lines": ["Manuchehr listened closely to their word,", "And then shaped his course from what he had heard."]}, {"id": "A6.21.9", "lines": ["He gave the whole command to Gharan’s care,", "Then chose the ground where he would set the snare."]}, {"id": "A6.21.10", "lines": ["He took full thirty thousand chiefs renowned,", "Bold khanjar-bearing warriors, battle-bound."]}, {"id": "A6.21.11", "lines": ["The ambush ground he judged both fit and right,", "With chosen horsemen ready for the fight."]}, {"id": "A6.21.12", "lines": ["When night grew black, Tur came in war array,", "A hundred thousand armed to force their way."]}, {"id": "A6.21.13", "lines": ["The night assault was planned; their bows were bent,", "With arrows set, their force to battle went."]}, {"id": "A6.21.14", "lines": ["He saw Iran’s ranks standing firm in line;", "Before them blazed the royal battle-sign."]}, {"id": "A6.21.15", "lines": ["He saw no course but battle left to take,", "And raised a war cry till the night would shake."]}, {"id": "A6.21.16", "lines": ["The riders’ dust wrapped all the air in cloud,", "While steel blades flashed like lightning through the shroud."]}, {"id": "A6.21.17", "lines": ["The air itself seemed set alight with flame;", "Like diamonds, flashing blades through darkness came."]}, {"id": "A6.21.18", "lines": ["Steel’s clamor hammered deep within the head,", "As fire and smoke rose through the cloud-bank spread."]}, {"id": "A6.21.19", "lines": ["Then Manuchehr sprang out to close the snare,", "And Tur found neither side a passage bare."]}, {"id": "A6.21.20", "lines": ["He wheeled his reins and turned his face away;", "A mighty uproar rose from the array."]}, {"id": "A6.21.21", "lines": ["Then Manuchehr drove after him at speed,", "And caught the blood-stained murderer on his steed."]}, {"id": "A6.21.22", "lines": ["He cried, “For Iraj’s blood your head is due!”", "Then cast his spear and drove it cleanly through."]}, {"id": "A6.21.23", "lines": ["He swept him from the saddle like a gust,", "Then dashed him down and hurled him in the dust."]}, {"id": "A6.21.24", "lines": ["He struck the head from Tur’s now lifeless frame,", "And left his flesh for beasts of field to claim."]}, {"id": "A6.21.25", "lines": ["Then Manuchehr returned to his own line,", "And saw his proud, triumphant army shine."]}, {"id": "A6.22.1", "lines": ["To Fereydoon he wrote of battle’s days,", "Their good and evil, all their turns and ways."]}, {"id": "A6.22.2", "lines": ["He first invoked the Maker’s holy light,", "Lord of all goodness, purity, and right:"]}, {"id": "A6.22.3", "lines": ["“The righteous Lord is refuge in distress;", "No other hand can grant us sure redress."]}, {"id": "A6.22.4", "lines": ["He is the Guide who makes the spirit glad,", "Eternal, constant, fixed through good and bad."]}, {"id": "A6.22.5", "lines": ["Next praise to great Fereydoon, high in fame,", "Lord of the crown and gorz, exalted name."]}, {"id": "A6.22.6", "lines": ["In him are justice, faith, and royal grace;", "Crown, throne, and kingship all adorn his place."]}, {"id": "A6.22.7", "lines": ["All rectitude flows from his fortune’s source;", "His throne and sacred farr light up our course."]}, {"id": "A6.22.8", "lines": ["We safely reached the Turanian ground,", "And drew our army up, our foes around."]}, {"id": "A6.22.9", "lines": ["Three heavy battles raged for three full days,", "By night and by the sun’s world-lighting rays."]}, {"id": "A6.22.10", "lines": ["I heard that Tur prepared a raid by night;", "In helplessness he turned from open fight."]}, {"id": "A6.22.11", "lines": ["Behind his back I set the hidden snare,", "And left his clenched fist holding only air."]}, {"id": "A6.22.12", "lines": ["When Tur at last turned back from battle’s face,", "I followed close and caught him in the chase."]}, {"id": "A6.22.13", "lines": ["I set my spear to his jowshan with force,", "And lifted him from saddle and from horse."]}, {"id": "A6.22.14", "lines": ["I cast him like a dragon in the dust,", "Then struck his worthless head off, stern and just."]}, {"id": "A6.22.15", "lines": ["I send his head now to the Shah’s own gate;", "Next Salm through kimiya shall meet his fate."]}, {"id": "A6.22.16", "lines": ["As Iraj’s royal head, despised, was thrown", "Into a golden coffin, all alone."]}, {"id": "A6.22.17", "lines": ["Tur showed no mercy, felt no shame at all;", "The World-Creator set me for his fall."]}, {"id": "A6.22.18", "lines": ["I freed his soul from body in like way;", "His house and country I will sweep away.”"]}, {"id": "A6.22.19", "lines": ["He sealed the letter once his words were cast,", "Then sent a swift hiyun out like the blast."]}, {"id": "A6.22.20", "lines": ["The envoy rode, his face suffused with shame;", "Hot tears for Fereydoon from both eyes came."]}, {"id": "A6.22.21", "lines": ["How could he bear the king of Chin, now dead,", "Before Iran’s Shah—his severed head?"]}, {"id": "A6.22.22", "lines": ["Though even a son turn from faith to wrong,", "His father’s grief at death burns fierce and long."]}, {"id": "A6.22.23", "lines": ["Tur’s guilt was grave; no plea could make it light,", "His young avenger stood prepared to fight."]}, {"id": "A6.22.24", "lines": ["The bold-faced envoy came before the seat,", "And laid Tur’s severed head before the Shah’s feet."]}, {"id": "A6.22.25", "lines": ["Then Fereydoon turned toward the Just and bowed,", "And asked a blessing on Manuchehr aloud."]}, {"id": "A6.23.1", "lines": ["News from the battlefield reached Salm that day,", "And darkness crossed his moon and dimmed its ray."]}, {"id": "A6.23.2", "lines": ["Behind him stood a fortress, huge and high,", "Its summit thrust against the azure sky."]}, {"id": "A6.23.3", "lines": ["He thought to shelter in that fortress keep,", "For Time can raise men high, then cast them deep."]}, {"id": "A6.23.4", "lines": ["Then Manuchehr considered Salm in flight:", "“If he turns back and quits the coming fight,"]}, {"id": "A6.23.5", "lines": ["The Alanons fortress will become his stay;", "We should move first and seize the guarded way."]}, {"id": "A6.23.6", "lines": ["For once that sea-fort shelters him inside,", "No man can force him from that place to ride."]}, {"id": "A6.23.7", "lines": ["Its summit rises upward through the cloud,", "Raised from the water’s depth by craft endowed."]}, {"id": "A6.23.8", "lines": ["Each kind of treasure lies within its wall,", "And Homa’s wing casts royal shade on all."]}, {"id": "A6.23.9", "lines": ["I must ride swiftly and my task sustain;", "Let effort wear the stirrup and the rein.”"]}, {"id": "A6.23.10", "lines": ["He formed the plan and told it Gharan then,", "A secret still concealed from other men."]}, {"id": "A6.23.11", "lines": ["When Gharan heard the Shah’s concealed design,", "He said, “Wise ruler, hear this thought of mine."]}, {"id": "A6.23.12", "lines": ["If this seems fitting to the Shah’s command,", "Entrust a mighty army to my hand."]}, {"id": "A6.23.13", "lines": ["I shall seize that passage firmly and hold fast;", "No beaten foe shall freely travel past."]}, {"id": "A6.23.14", "lines": ["Give me the Shah’s auspicious banner bright,", "And Tur’s own signet-ring to prove my right."]}, {"id": "A6.23.15", "lines": ["I shall shape a clever course by craft alone,", "And plant our army in that hold of stone."]}, {"id": "A6.23.16", "lines": ["Gashasb and I will go this darkened night;", "Let no one speak our secret till we fight.”"]}, {"id": "A6.23.17", "lines": ["Six thousand chosen warriors would ride,", "Renowned and battle-tested at his side."]}, {"id": "A6.23.18", "lines": ["When heaven’s face had turned to utter black,", "They lashed tabiras on elephants’ back."]}, {"id": "A6.23.19", "lines": ["The battle-seeking chiefs moved in array,", "From dry land toward the water made their way."]}, {"id": "A6.23.20", "lines": ["To Shirviyeh he gave the army’s care:", "“I mean to hide myself and work the snare."]}, {"id": "A6.23.21", "lines": ["To the fortress lord as envoy I shall go,", "And Tur’s own signet shall confirm me so."]}, {"id": "A6.23.22", "lines": ["Once in the fortress, I will raise the sign,", "And make our purple blades flash down the line."]}, {"id": "A6.23.23", "lines": ["When I cry out and sound the battle call,", "Turn all your forces toward the fortress wall.”"]}, {"id": "A6.23.24", "lines": ["He left the army by the sea to stay,", "With lion-slaying Shirviyeh, then rode away."]}, {"id": "A6.23.25", "lines": ["He said, “From Tur I come at his command;", "He gave no leave to pause across the land."]}, {"id": "A6.23.26", "lines": ["He says: ‘By day or night seek neither rest;", "Keep watch without relief at my request."]}, {"id": "A6.23.27", "lines": ["In good and evil stand beside my cause;", "Guard well the fortress, wakeful without pause."]}, {"id": "A6.23.28", "lines": ["If Manuchehr’s proud standard should appear,", "And toward the fortress bring his army near,"]}, {"id": "A6.23.29", "lines": ["Then gather strength and bar them from the gate;", "Perhaps you will break his force and master fate.’”"]}, {"id": "A6.23.30", "lines": ["The castellan heard Gharan’s message through,", "And saw the signet-ring and deemed it true."]}, {"id": "A6.23.31", "lines": ["At once the fortress gate was opened wide;", "He saw what showed, but not what lay inside."]}, {"id": "A6.23.32", "lines": ["Now hear the speaking dehqan’s warning art:", "He reads another who conceals his heart."]}, {"id": "A6.23.33", "lines": ["Let service be the calling we pursue,", "But thought must walk beside whatever we do."]}, {"id": "A6.23.34", "lines": ["In good or ill, whatever comes to pass,", "Take counsel from the tales of ages past."]}, {"id": "A6.23.35", "lines": ["The castellan with Gharan climbed the wall;", "The battle-seeking chief observed it all."]}, {"id": "A6.23.36", "lines": ["One harbored evil, one was simple-hearted;", "The chief stood ready, every trick well-charted."]}, {"id": "A6.23.37", "lines": ["He trusted strangers as he trusted friends,", "And brought both head and fortress to their ends."]}, {"id": "A6.23.38", "lines": ["Thus wisdom tells the battle-leopard’s young:", "“O sharp-clawed cub, by skill and courage sprung,"]}, {"id": "A6.23.39", "lines": ["In unknown matters never hurry blind;", "From first to last examine with your mind."]}, {"id": "A6.23.40", "lines": ["A stranger’s honeyed speech demands your care,", "Especially amid battle’s dangerous snare."]}, {"id": "A6.23.41", "lines": ["Investigate; fear ambush in the field;", "Probe every word before your trust can yield.”"]}, {"id": "A6.23.42", "lines": ["See how a foolish chief, bereft of wit,", "Could lose his judgment when the danger hit."]}, {"id": "A6.23.43", "lines": ["He made no search into the subtle case,", "And failed to test the truth before his face."]}, {"id": "A6.23.44", "lines": ["He never marked the snare that they had laid,", "And so this mighty fortress was betrayed."]}, {"id": "A6.23.45", "lines": ["When night grew black, bold Gharan’s standard shone,", "Like moon’s bright halo over darkness thrown."]}, {"id": "A6.23.46", "lines": ["He cried aloud and gave the promised sign", "To Shirviyeh and all the chiefs in line."]}, {"id": "A6.23.47", "lines": ["When Shirviyeh saw the Kayanian banner fly,", "He turned toward the Pahlevan with a cry."]}, {"id": "A6.23.48", "lines": ["He seized the fortress gate and entered fast,", "And crowned its chiefs with blood before he passed."]}, {"id": "A6.23.49", "lines": ["Gharan held one flank, Shirviyeh the side;", "Above flashed sword-fire, underneath the tide."]}, {"id": "A6.23.50", "lines": ["When sunlight reached the summit of the sky,", "No castellan or fortress guard stood by."]}, {"id": "A6.23.51", "lines": ["Smoke climbed until its head was in the cloud;", "No fort or ship showed through the smoky shroud."]}, {"id": "A6.23.52", "lines": ["Fire flashed; the storm-wind roared across the ground,", "While riders’ battle-cries rang all around."]}, {"id": "A6.23.53", "lines": ["When the bright sun declined from heaven’s height,", "Fortress and plain appeared alike to sight."]}, {"id": "A6.23.54", "lines": ["Twelve thousand died; black smoke climbed overhead;", "The sea turned pitch, the plain ran crimson-red."]}, {"id": "A6.24.1", "lines": ["Then Gharan came and told the prince each deed,", "The turns of battle and his hard-won speed."]}, {"id": "A6.24.2", "lines": ["Manuchehr blessed him: “May your honored place", "Keep horse and saddle, gorz, and martial grace."]}, {"id": "A6.24.3", "lines": ["When you had gone, another army came,", "Led by a youthful chief of battle-fame."]}, {"id": "A6.24.4", "lines": ["Kakouy, Zahhak’s grandson, bore command,", "An avenger out of Gang Dezh-Hokht’s land."]}, {"id": "A6.24.5", "lines": ["One hundred thousand veteran riders massed,", "All battle-tested through campaigns long past."]}, {"id": "A6.24.6", "lines": ["They struck our men; some lions of the fray", "Were slain beneath their weapons that same day."]}, {"id": "A6.24.7", "lines": ["By that support Salm’s failing courage grew,", "And once again his thoughts toward battle drew."]}, {"id": "A6.24.8", "lines": ["They call this Kakouy battle-div in name,", "Strong-handed, fearless in the battle-flame."]}, {"id": "A6.24.9", "lines": ["I have not tested Kakouy in the field,", "Nor weighed him by the blows that our gorz wield."]}, {"id": "A6.24.10", "lines": ["But when he turns again to face my line,", "I shall weigh his strength and set it against mine.”"]}, {"id": "A6.24.11", "lines": ["Gharan replied: “Who stands before your spear?", "No man or beast could meet you without fear."]}, {"id": "A6.24.12", "lines": ["Even a nahang that has blocked your way", "Would split its hide from terror that same day."]}, {"id": "A6.24.13", "lines": ["Who is this Kakouy? Let him prove his claim;", "No man beneath the sky can match your fame."]}, {"id": "A6.24.14", "lines": ["Yet I will use clear judgment in this case,", "So Dezh-Hokht sends no Kakouy to this place.”"]}, {"id": "A6.24.15", "lines": ["Manuchehr said: “Do not disturb your heart;", "You have already borne the harder part."]}, {"id": "A6.24.16", "lines": ["You led the army on the vengeance road,", "And spent your strength beneath that heavy load."]}, {"id": "A6.24.17", "lines": ["Now battle calls on me to take the lead;", "You rest and breathe; I shall answer to the need.”"]}, {"id": "A6.24.18", "lines": ["Then karnay and pipe sounded from the tent,", "And through the ranks their brazen summons went."]}, {"id": "A6.24.19", "lines": ["From riders’ dust, tabiras, daylight died;", "Earth turned to pitch, and ebony spread wide."]}, {"id": "A6.24.20", "lines": ["It seemed the diamond steel itself could speak,", "While gorz and spear grew tongues amid the shriek."]}, {"id": "A6.24.21", "lines": ["The feathered arrows crowded all the height,", "Like vultures wheeling hungry through the fight."]}, {"id": "A6.24.22", "lines": ["Blood clung to every hand that gripped a blade,", "While crimson drops fell through the clouded shade."]}, {"id": "A6.24.23", "lines": ["Then earth appeared to heave and upward rise,", "A mounting wave that threatened all the skies."]}, {"id": "A6.24.24", "lines": ["Then Kakouy roared, a battle-div in might,", "And plunged among the warriors for the fight."]}, {"id": "A6.24.25", "lines": ["Manuchehr came, his Indian sword held high,", "And strode to meet him underneath the sky."]}, {"id": "A6.24.26", "lines": ["Each gave a cry that seemed to split the height;", "The troops around them trembled at the sight."]}, {"id": "A6.24.27", "lines": ["Like raging elephants they closed in fight,", "Both girded hard for vengeance and for right."]}, {"id": "A6.24.28", "lines": ["At Manuchehr’s belt Kakouy drove the spear;", "Its force struck hard through all the armor near."]}, {"id": "A6.24.29", "lines": ["The Roman helmet rocked beneath the stroke;", "His jowshan tore down to the belt, and broke."]}, {"id": "A6.24.30", "lines": ["The iron waist-belt showed beneath the tear;", "The Shah stood fast and brought his sword to bear."]}, {"id": "A6.24.31", "lines": ["He struck at Kakouy’s neck in one fierce sweep,", "And split the cuirass from the throat down deep."]}, {"id": "A6.24.32", "lines": ["Thus blade met spear until the hour of noon,", "And neither yielded, nor would end it soon."]}, {"id": "A6.24.33", "lines": ["Then like two leopards they began to close,", "And mixed the dust with blood beneath their blows."]}, {"id": "A6.24.34", "lines": ["When sunlight wheeled along the turning sphere,", "The struggle passed all bounds as dusk drew near."]}, {"id": "A6.24.35", "lines": ["The Shah grew straitened by the endless fight;", "He pressed his thighs and reached with all his might."]}, {"id": "A6.24.36", "lines": ["He caught fierce Kakouy by the warrior’s belt,", "And held him fast; no mercy then was dealt."]}, {"id": "A6.24.37", "lines": ["That elephant-bodied man he lifted high,", "Clear from the saddle underneath the sky."]}, {"id": "A6.24.38", "lines": ["He hurled him wounded on the burning sand,", "Then split his breast wide open, sword in hand."]}, {"id": "A6.24.39", "lines": ["Thus sharp steel claimed that Arab as its prey;", "His mother bore him for so dark a day."]}, {"id": "A6.25.1", "lines": ["With Kakouy slain, the lord of Khavar knew", "His strength had failed; his counsel altered too."]}, {"id": "A6.25.2", "lines": ["His head was emptied now of vengeance’s heat;", "He fled back to the fortress, his retreat."]}, {"id": "A6.25.3", "lines": ["When Salm came to the sea, he found no boat,", "No trace of timber, nothing that could float."]}, {"id": "A6.25.4", "lines": ["Behind him Manuchehr’s battalions sped;", "The road grew hard with wounded men and dead."]}, {"id": "A6.25.5", "lines": ["The youthful chief, with wrath and vengeance stirred,", "Mounted his swift gray charger without word."]}, {"id": "A6.25.6", "lines": ["He cast its barding off and drove ahead,", "And caught Rum’s king where narrow passage led."]}, {"id": "A6.25.7", "lines": ["He cried, “O evil man, unjust and grim,", "You killed your brother; now answer for him."]}, {"id": "A6.25.8", "lines": ["You killed your brother for a crown through greed;", "Did you gain that crown? Why flee now at speed?"]}, {"id": "A6.25.9", "lines": ["Now crown and throne I bring before your eyes;", "The royal tree has borne the fruit you prize."]}, {"id": "A6.25.10", "lines": ["Do not flee now the crown of royal state;", "Fereydoon has prepared your seat of fate."]}, {"id": "A6.25.11", "lines": ["The tree you planted now has come to fruit;", "Its harvest stands beside you in pursuit."]}, {"id": "A6.25.12", "lines": ["If thorns it bears, you planted every seed;", "If silk, you spun the thread by your own deed.”"]}, {"id": "A6.25.13", "lines": ["Still speaking, he drove hard along the track,", "Till narrow ground hemmed Salm and held him back."]}, {"id": "A6.25.14", "lines": ["One sword-stroke fell across the royal side;", "And split his body open, deep and wide."]}, {"id": "A6.25.15", "lines": ["He ordered Salm’s severed head raised high,", "Upon a spear that reached toward the sky."]}, {"id": "A6.25.16", "lines": ["The soldiers stood astonished at the sight,", "At Manuchehr’s fierce arm and battle-might."]}, {"id": "A6.25.17", "lines": ["Then Salm’s whole army scattered like a flock,", "Dispersed by Time’s strong breath beneath the shock."]}, {"id": "A6.25.18", "lines": ["In groups they fled without a road or guide,", "Through plain and cave and mountain far and wide."]}, {"id": "A6.25.19", "lines": ["They chose a wise man, pure of heart and mind,", "Whose graceful speech was measured and refined."]}, {"id": "A6.25.20", "lines": ["They sent him to appear before the king,", "As tongue of all the troops, their words to bring."]}, {"id": "A6.25.21", "lines": ["He said, “We all are subjects in your thrall;", "We tread the earth obedient to your call."]}, {"id": "A6.25.22", "lines": ["Some own the herds that graze upon the plain;", "Some tend their fields and households for their gain."]}, {"id": "A6.25.23", "lines": ["Our ruler’s order brought us to this ground;", "His binding word compelled us, duty-bound."]}, {"id": "A6.25.24", "lines": ["We came as soldiers to this battle’s test,", "Not from desire for vengeance in the breast."]}, {"id": "A6.25.25", "lines": ["Now all are servants to your rule, and bow;", "With lowered heads we wait your order now."]}, {"id": "A6.25.26", "lines": ["If blood and vengeance still are your decree,", "We have no strength to struggle or to flee."]}, {"id": "A6.25.27", "lines": ["Our chiefs have all come wholly to your seat;", "We stand before you guiltless in defeat."]}, {"id": "A6.25.28", "lines": ["Whatever you desire, command it done;", "You rule these guiltless lives beneath the sun.”"]}, {"id": "A6.25.29", "lines": ["The wise man ended; Manuchehr gave ear,", "And weighed his words with judgment calm and clear."]}, {"id": "A6.25.30", "lines": ["He said, “My private wish I cast to dust;", "I seek a lasting name through what is just."]}, {"id": "A6.25.31", "lines": ["Whatever stands apart from God’s decree", "Is Ahriman’s work and shall not govern me."]}, {"id": "A6.25.32", "lines": ["Whether you came as enemies or friends,", "God’s victory shows where guilt begins and ends."]}, {"id": "A6.25.33", "lines": ["Today is justice; tyranny has ceased;", "Your chiefs from further slaughter are released."]}, {"id": "A6.25.34", "lines": ["Seek amity and cast your weapons down;", "Let rancor end with Salm’s defeated crown."]}, {"id": "A6.25.35", "lines": ["Be wise, keep pure your faith, your spirit bright,", "And cast all harm and hatred from your sight."]}, {"id": "A6.25.36", "lines": ["Return to every settled home you own,", "In Turan, Chin or Rum, to lands well known.”"]}, {"id": "A6.25.37", "lines": ["A cry arose: “Let needless slaughter end;", "The tyrants’ fallen fortune cannot mend.”"]}, {"id": "A6.25.38", "lines": ["Then Chin’s warriors bowed before his sight,", "And heaped their battle gear to mountain height."]}, {"id": "A6.25.39", "lines": ["Jowshans, helms, bargostvans, khanjar, gorz he gave;", "With these Manuchehr honored each chief brave."]}, {"id": "A6.26.1", "lines": ["The prince then called a courier, swift and true,", "And gave him Salm’s severed head to view."]}, {"id": "A6.26.2", "lines": ["To Fereydoon he wrote what war revealed,", "Of battle, cunning, and kimiya concealed."]}, {"id": "A6.26.3", "lines": ["First to the Maker blessings he addressed,", "Then Fereydoon, the famous Shah, he blessed."]}, {"id": "A6.26.4", "lines": ["“Praise to the conquering Lord, source of our might;", "From Him come strength and skill that guide the fight."]}, {"id": "A6.26.5", "lines": ["All good and evil lie within His power;", "All pain and suffering answer Him each hour."]}, {"id": "A6.26.6", "lines": ["Now blessings on Fereydoon, wakeful, wise,", "The Shah of earth beneath the turning skies."]}, {"id": "A6.26.7", "lines": ["He breaks the bonds of evil by decree,", "His counsel and divine farr set us free."]}, {"id": "A6.26.8", "lines": ["I took revenge upon Chin’s mounted array,", "And set an ambush where their forces lay."]}, {"id": "A6.26.9", "lines": ["By your great strength those unjust men were slain,", "The blood-guilty who brought us grief and pain."]}, {"id": "A6.26.10", "lines": ["Their heads we severed with avenging steel,", "And washed earth’s face till vengeance set its seal."]}, {"id": "A6.26.11", "lines": ["I follow close behind the letter sent,", "And soon will tell you how the battle went.”"]}, {"id": "A6.26.12", "lines": ["He sent Shirviyeh back toward the hold,", "A seasoned warrior, world-wise and bold."]}, {"id": "A6.26.13", "lines": ["He said, “Inspect the treasure stored inside;", "Arrange what must be done, and nothing hide."]}, {"id": "A6.26.14", "lines": ["Load all the wealth on elephants held high,", "And bring it decked before the Shah’s own eye.”"]}, {"id": "A6.26.15", "lines": ["Then bronze kousts sounded, and the reed-pipes cried,", "Their music rolling from the royal side."]}, {"id": "A6.26.16", "lines": ["From sea to land he drew his ordered force,", "Then turned toward Fereydoon on his course."]}, {"id": "A6.26.17", "lines": ["When Tammisheh appeared before his sight,", "Fereydoon longed to see the prince alight."]}, {"id": "A6.26.18", "lines": ["The karnay’s cry rang out beside the wall,", "And all the army stirred beneath its call."]}, {"id": "A6.26.19", "lines": ["On elephants turquoise thrones shone bright,", "Prepared by him whom fortune crowned with light."]}, {"id": "A6.26.20", "lines": ["Gold litters draped in Chinese brocade,", "With jewels bright, a royal show displayed."]}, {"id": "A6.26.21", "lines": ["Banners of every kind streamed into view;", "The world turned red and yellow, violet too."]}, {"id": "A6.26.22", "lines": ["From Gilan’s sea, a black cloud swept the plain,", "And marched toward Sari in an ordered train."]}, {"id": "A6.26.23", "lines": ["Gold trappings, golden girdles gleamed in line,", "Silver stirrups, golden shields would shine."]}, {"id": "A6.26.24", "lines": ["With elephants and treasure in array,", "They dressed themselves to greet him on the way."]}, {"id": "A6.26.25", "lines": ["When prince and army neared the royal train,", "Fereydoon came on foot along the plain."]}, {"id": "A6.26.26", "lines": ["Gil warriors came like lions loosed to fight,", "Gold torques and musk-black caps adorned the sight."]}, {"id": "A6.26.27", "lines": ["Behind the Shah the men of Iran came,", "Each like a raging lion in his frame."]}, {"id": "A6.26.28", "lines": ["Before the army elephants were led,", "With lion-hearted champions at their head."]}, {"id": "A6.26.29", "lines": ["When Fereydoon’s banner rose into view,", "Manuchehr formed his ranks and forward drew."]}, {"id": "A6.26.30", "lines": ["The young sepahbod stepped down from his steed,", "A new-grown tree with new fruit from its seed."]}, {"id": "A6.26.31", "lines": ["He kissed the earth and offered praise divine", "To throne and crown, royal cap and sign."]}, {"id": "A6.26.32", "lines": ["Fereydoon raised him, kissed the youthful heir,", "And clasped his hand with praise and kingly care."]}, {"id": "A6.26.33", "lines": ["Back at his seat, the Shah sent out a call", "For Sahm, son of Nariman, to the hall."]}, {"id": "A6.26.34", "lines": ["From Hind far away had Sahm already sped,", "To aid them in the war where blood was shed."]}, {"id": "A6.26.35", "lines": ["He brought great wealth the Shah had never claimed;", "No gift had been requested, sought, or named."]}, {"id": "A6.26.36", "lines": ["Of golden coins and jewels, thousands more,", "Beyond all reckoning was that shining store."]}, {"id": "A6.26.37", "lines": ["When Sahm came before the Shah renowned,", "He praised the old and young with words profound."]}, {"id": "A6.26.38", "lines": ["The Shah looked on the Pahlevan, glad-eyed,", "And seated famous Sahm close by his side."]}, {"id": "A6.26.39", "lines": ["“I place this grandson in your faithful care;", "For death draws near, and I must now prepare."]}, {"id": "A6.26.40", "lines": ["In every task stand with him as his guide;", "Let your own worth and skill be magnified.”"]}, {"id": "A6.26.41", "lines": ["He took Manuchehr’s hand, the youthful heir,", "And laid it in Sahm’s palm, a trust to bear."]}, {"id": "A6.26.42", "lines": ["Then Fereydoon turned upward with his plea:", "“O truthful, just Judge, hear this word from me."]}, {"id": "A6.26.43", "lines": ["You said, ‘I am the just Judge in distress,", "The refuge of the wronged beneath duress.’"]}, {"id": "A6.26.44", "lines": ["You gave me justice, aid when I had need;", "You gave me crown and signet for my deed."]}, {"id": "A6.26.45", "lines": ["All I desired, O God, You gave to me;", "Now take me to the other world, set free."]}, {"id": "A6.26.46", "lines": ["No longer would I have my spirit stay", "Within this narrow place another day.”"]}, {"id": "A6.26.47", "lines": ["Then Shirviyeh returned with treasure bright,", "And set it all before the Shah’s clear sight."]}, {"id": "A6.26.48", "lines": ["The Shah shared treasure with the royal train", "When two days still of Mehr’s month did remain."]}, {"id": "A6.26.49", "lines": ["Then Manuchehr was seated, crowned and known,", "Upon the gleaming gold of royal throne."]}, {"id": "A6.26.50", "lines": ["With his own hand he crowned him for his reign,", "And gave him final counsel, clear and plain."]}, {"id": "A6.27.1", "lines": ["When all was done, his day of fortune died;", "The Kayanian tree’s green leaves shrank and dried."]}, {"id": "A6.27.2", "lines": ["He turned aside from royal crown and throne,", "With three kings’ severed heads before him shown."]}, {"id": "A6.27.3", "lines": ["The aged ruler wept in bitter pain,", "And lived beneath affliction’s heavy reign."]}, {"id": "A6.27.4", "lines": ["At every hour he raised a mourning cry,", "And spoke these words with tears in either eye:"]}, {"id": "A6.27.5", "lines": ["“My day has turned, and darkness fills my breast;", "Those three who gave me joy now give no rest."]}, {"id": "A6.27.6", "lines": ["Before my eyes such misery was brought,", "By vengeance and the will of evil thought."]}, {"id": "A6.27.7", "lines": ["From evil nature and from wicked deeds,", "Such ruin follows when the young give heed."]}, {"id": "A6.27.8", "lines": ["They would not heed the order I made plain;", "So all three youths found bitterness and pain.”"]}, {"id": "A6.27.9", "lines": ["His heart ran blood; both cheeks were wet with tears;", "Thus lived he till the ending of his years."]}, {"id": "A6.27.10", "lines": ["Fereydoon passed; his name remained in light,", "While long years followed in their endless flight."]}, {"id": "A6.27.11", "lines": ["Good name and righteousness are all that stay;", "What gain from loss, my son, along the way?"]}, {"id": "A6.27.12", "lines": ["Manuchehr laid the Kayanian crown aside,", "And bound a bloody girdle at his side."]}, {"id": "A6.27.13", "lines": ["By royal rite he raised a tomb of old,", "From lapis lazuli and crimson gold."]}, {"id": "A6.27.14", "lines": ["An ivory throne they set beneath the crown;", "Above the seat the royal crown hung down."]}, {"id": "A6.27.15", "lines": ["They came to bid farewell in solemn way,", "As rite and faith had ordered for that day."]}, {"id": "A6.27.16", "lines": ["They closed the tomb upon the honored king;", "The world brought low the lord of everything."]}, {"id": "A6.27.17", "lines": ["For one full week Manuchehr wept in grief;", "His yellow cheeks and tears found no relief."]}, {"id": "A6.27.18", "lines": ["One week the king remained in mourning deep;", "The city and bazaars joined him to weep."]}, {"id": "A6.27.19", "lines": ["O world, all fraud and wind from end to end,", "No wise man finds in you a faithful friend."]}, {"id": "A6.27.20", "lines": ["One after one you nurture with delight,", "Whether their lives are long or brief in flight."]}, {"id": "A6.27.21", "lines": ["Since what you give you take again away,", "What matters dust or coral on that day?"]}, {"id": "A6.27.22", "lines": ["Be king or subject under any name;", "Once this world takes your breath, all ends the same."]}, {"id": "A6.27.23", "lines": ["Then grief and joy like water run and drain;", "Do not torment your heart for what must wane."]}, {"id": "A6.27.24", "lines": ["Blessed the one whose goodness leaves its mark,", "Be servant or a king when days grow dark."]}]}, {"id": "A7", "title": "The First Kings: Manuchehr", "summary": "6 sections · 353 couplets", "path": "/poem/a7/", "couplets": [{"id": "A7.1.1", "lines": ["Another week passed by in grief and woe;", "All mourned the Shah whom death had brought so low."]}, {"id": "A7.1.2", "lines": ["Upon the eighth day Manuchehr came crowned;", "The Kayanian diadem his temples bound."]}, {"id": "A7.1.3", "lines": ["All champions living over earth’s domain", "Called blessings down upon his royal reign."]}, {"id": "A7.1.4", "lines": ["When he had set the royal crown in place,", "He gave glad tidings to the human race:"]}, {"id": "A7.1.5", "lines": ["Of justice, Faith, and courage in the deed,", "Of goodness, purity, and wisdom’s creed."]}, {"id": "A7.1.6", "lines": ["“I sit,” he said, “upon the turning sphere;", "My wrath and war, my justice, love are here."]}, {"id": "A7.1.7", "lines": ["The earth serves me; the turning heavens obey;", "The heads of crowned kings shall become my prey."]}, {"id": "A7.1.8", "lines": ["The Faith is mine; divine farr crowns my state;", "Good fortune walks beside me joined with fate."]}, {"id": "A7.1.9", "lines": ["In darkest night I seek the blood-debt due;", "By day Barzin-fire burns before your view."]}, {"id": "A7.1.10", "lines": ["I bear the sword and golden shoes, and hold", "The Kayanian standard, high and bold."]}, {"id": "A7.1.11", "lines": ["I kindle cloud and draw the cutting blade;", "In battle I stand firm, of none afraid."]}, {"id": "A7.1.12", "lines": ["At feast my hands become a boundless sea;", "In war, consuming fire goes out from me."]}, {"id": "A7.1.13", "lines": ["From evil I cut wicked hands away;", "In vengeance earth wears brocade for the day."]}, {"id": "A7.1.14", "lines": ["I wield the gorz and bear the royal crown;", "From ivory throne I cast my radiance down."]}, {"id": "A7.1.15", "lines": ["Yet with these gifts and powers I remain", "The Maker’s servant under His domain."]}, {"id": "A7.1.16", "lines": ["Come, strike our hands upon each tearful face;", "Let every tale return to God’s own place."]}, {"id": "A7.1.17", "lines": ["From Him are crown and throne, from Him my force;", "To Him my thanks, in Him my sole recourse."]}, {"id": "A7.1.18", "lines": ["We follow blessed Fereydoon’s ancient way;", "Though he was old, our reign begins today."]}, {"id": "A7.1.19", "lines": ["Whoever through the seven climes should stray", "From Faith and turn where sin and darkness lay;"]}, {"id": "A7.1.20", "lines": ["Who brings affliction on the poor and weak,", "Or keeps his own folk humbled when they speak;"]}, {"id": "A7.1.21", "lines": ["Who lifts his head through riches and through pride,", "Or adds new pain to sufferers at his side;"]}, {"id": "A7.1.22", "lines": ["All such are faithless in my royal sight,", "Worse than the evil Ahriman in spite."]}, {"id": "A7.1.23", "lines": ["Whoever stands outside this Faith and way", "Is cursed by God and me from this same day."]}, {"id": "A7.1.24", "lines": ["Then swiftly to the sword my hand shall go,", "And humble every realm that shelters foe.”"]}, {"id": "A7.1.25", "lines": ["Then all the champions of the world raised high", "Their blessings on Manuchehr with one cry:"]}, {"id": "A7.1.26", "lines": ["“Blessed Fereydoon, Shah of righteous fame,", "Bestowed the throne and crown that bear your name."]}, {"id": "A7.1.27", "lines": ["May nobles’ throne be yours forevermore,", "With crown and Mobad’s farr in lasting store."]}, {"id": "A7.1.28", "lines": ["Our hearts obey your will in every deed;", "Our lives are pledged to serve you at your need.”"]}, {"id": "A7.1.29", "lines": ["Then world-champion Sahm rose from his place:", "“O just king, judgment shines upon your face."]}, {"id": "A7.1.30", "lines": ["I have seen kings through many years gone by;", "In you shines justice clear to every eye."]}, {"id": "A7.1.31", "lines": ["From father after father comes your claim;", "The riders’ chosen lion, crowned with fame."]}, {"id": "A7.1.32", "lines": ["May the pure Maker guard your soul and frame;", "Keep glad your heart, and radiant your name."]}, {"id": "A7.1.33", "lines": ["In you the memory of old kings revives;", "The Kayanian spring again arrives."]}, {"id": "A7.1.34", "lines": ["In battle you are lion, firm and bright;", "At feast you are the sun that pours its light."]}, {"id": "A7.1.35", "lines": ["May earth and Time lie dust beneath your feet;", "May turquoise throne remain your royal seat."]}, {"id": "A7.1.36", "lines": ["You washed the earth clean with the Indian blade;", "Now sit at ease and let the feast be made."]}, {"id": "A7.1.37", "lines": ["From now the turn of battle falls to me;", "Your place is throne and feast, from warfare free."]}, {"id": "A7.1.38", "lines": ["My forebears all were champions of renown,", "The refuge of great nobles and the crown."]}, {"id": "A7.1.39", "lines": ["From Garshasp down to Nariman of fame,", "Sepahbods, khanjar-wielders, bore that name."]}, {"id": "A7.1.40", "lines": ["I shall go round the world from end to end,", "And bind each rising foe who would contend."]}, {"id": "A7.1.41", "lines": ["Fereydoon raised me to the Pahlevan’s place;", "Your wisdom now confirms that honored grace.”"]}, {"id": "A7.1.42", "lines": ["The Shah then blessed him, praising all he said,", "And royal gems before the chief were spread."]}, {"id": "A7.1.43", "lines": ["Then Sahm withdrew from near the royal seat;", "The champions followed after his retreat."]}, {"id": "A7.1.44", "lines": ["He walked with honor toward his resting place;", "The world moved on in order, law, and grace."]}, {"id": "A7.2.1", "lines": ["Now from the tales of ancient days I bring", "A wondrous story from tradition’s spring."]}, {"id": "A7.2.2", "lines": ["Look well, my son, and hear what Time once planned,", "What game it played with Sahm by its own hand."]}, {"id": "A7.2.3", "lines": ["No child had yet been granted Sahm’s embrace;", "His heart still sought a child to fill that place."]}, {"id": "A7.2.4", "lines": ["Within his chambers dwelt a lovely bride;", "Rose-petal cheeks and musk-dark hair her pride."]}, {"id": "A7.2.5", "lines": ["From that moon-face he hoped a son might rise,", "Sun-faced and strong beneath the turning skies."]}, {"id": "A7.2.6", "lines": ["She bore the child of Sahm, of noble fame;", "The heavy burden racked her tender frame."]}, {"id": "A7.2.7", "lines": ["When her appointed days at last were done,", "From mother came a child bright as the sun."]}, {"id": "A7.2.8", "lines": ["His face shone brightly like the solar light;", "But every hair upon him gleamed snow-white."]}, {"id": "A7.2.9", "lines": ["Because the boy was born in such a guise,", "For one full week they hid him from Sahm’s eyes."]}, {"id": "A7.2.10", "lines": ["The women of that champion’s private hall", "Before the tiny child stood helpless all."]}, {"id": "A7.2.11", "lines": ["No one would dare to tell the warrior so:", "“Your fair mate bore a child with hair like snow.”"]}, {"id": "A7.2.12", "lines": ["At last a nurse, lion-hearted in her way,", "Came boldly before Sahm without delay."]}, {"id": "A7.2.13", "lines": ["She stood before the champion with the news,", "And first spoke blessings, careful words to choose:"]}, {"id": "A7.2.14", "lines": ["“May Sahm the brave know fortune bright and strong;", "May foes who plot against him not live long."]}, {"id": "A7.2.15", "lines": ["God gave at last the thing your heart desired,", "The gift for which your spirit long aspired."]}, {"id": "A7.2.16", "lines": ["Behind your veil, renowned and noble one,", "Your moon-faced lady now has borne a son."]}, {"id": "A7.2.17", "lines": ["A lion-hearted warrior-child is he;", "His courage shows already, bold and free."]}, {"id": "A7.2.18", "lines": ["His body shines like silver, pure and bright;", "His face is paradise to mortal sight."]}, {"id": "A7.2.19", "lines": ["One fault alone: the whiteness of his hair;", "This is the portion fate has made your share."]}, {"id": "A7.2.20", "lines": ["Accept what God has given to your care;", "Be grateful; do not yield to your despair.”"]}, {"id": "A7.2.21", "lines": ["Then Sahm the rider left his royal chair", "And went behind the curtain to his heir."]}, {"id": "A7.2.22", "lines": ["He saw an old-headed child, noble and bright;", "No eye had seen such wonder brought to light."]}, {"id": "A7.2.23", "lines": ["His every hair was white and cold as snow;", "His face burned red with youthful, splendid glow."]}, {"id": "A7.2.24", "lines": ["When Sahm beheld that head of snowy white,", "The world itself grew hopeless in his sight."]}, {"id": "A7.2.25", "lines": ["He feared the taunts that others soon would raise;", "Fear drove him from the path of wisdom’s ways."]}, {"id": "A7.2.26", "lines": ["He raised his head in anguish to the sky,", "And begged Yazdan for refuge with a cry:"]}, {"id": "A7.2.27", "lines": ["“O One beyond all crookedness and flaw,", "All goodness grows according to Your law."]}, {"id": "A7.2.28", "lines": ["If I have borne some grave and sinful stain,", "Or followed Ahriman, his faith profane,"]}, {"id": "A7.2.29", "lines": ["May the Creator hear my hidden plea,", "And in His mercy secretly pardon me."]}, {"id": "A7.2.30", "lines": ["My darkened soul twists inwardly with shame;", "Hot blood within my body boils like flame."]}, {"id": "A7.2.31", "lines": ["This child seems sprung from Ahriman’s own line,", "Dark eyes beneath hair white as jasmine shine."]}, {"id": "A7.2.32", "lines": ["When mighty chiefs arrive and question why,", "What can I say beneath each searching eye?"]}, {"id": "A7.2.33", "lines": ["What shall I call this Div-child, born in dread?", "A two-hued leopard, from a pari bred?"]}, {"id": "A7.2.34", "lines": ["The world’s great men will laugh at what they see,", "In public and in secret mocking me."]}, {"id": "A7.2.35", "lines": ["For this disgrace I shall leave Iran behind;", "No blessing for this land will cross my mind.”"]}, {"id": "A7.2.36", "lines": ["He spoke, turned back, and would no longer stay;", "He railed against his fortune on the way."]}, {"id": "A7.2.37", "lines": ["He ordered them to lift the child away,", "Far from that settled country on that day."]}, {"id": "A7.2.38", "lines": ["There stood Mount Alborz, rising toward the sun,", "Far from the haunts where human feet had run."]}, {"id": "A7.2.39", "lines": ["The Simorgh there had built her lofty nest,", "Its home was far from every creature’s quest."]}, {"id": "A7.2.40", "lines": ["They laid him on the mountain, turned away;", "And for a time alone the infant lay."]}, {"id": "A7.2.41", "lines": ["The guiltless champion-child lay on that track,", "Not knowing even what was white or black."]}, {"id": "A7.2.42", "lines": ["His father cast love, kinship, all aside;", "When Sahm cast him away, God took his side."]}, {"id": "A7.2.43", "lines": ["A lioness who nursed her cub once said,", "And gave this mother’s wisdom as she fed:"]}, {"id": "A7.2.44", "lines": ["“If I fed you my heart’s blood day by day,", "No debt upon your head would I then lay."]}, {"id": "A7.2.45", "lines": ["For you are both my seeing eye and heart;", "My own heart breaks if ever we should part.”"]}, {"id": "A7.2.46", "lines": ["The little child lay helpless in that place,", "For days, and none to hold him in embrace."]}, {"id": "A7.2.47", "lines": ["At times he sucked the finger of his hand;", "At times his cries rang over barren land."]}, {"id": "A7.2.48", "lines": ["When hunger seized the Simorgh’s waiting brood,", "She rose on mighty wings in search of food."]}, {"id": "A7.2.49", "lines": ["She saw below a suckling child who cried,", "The earth around him like a boiling tide."]}, {"id": "A7.2.50", "lines": ["Rock was his cradle, dust his nurse alone;", "No cloth, no milk; he lay upon the stone."]}, {"id": "A7.2.51", "lines": ["Dark, wretched dust lay heaped on every side;", "Above his head the sun burned fierce and wide."]}, {"id": "A7.2.52", "lines": ["Had leopard been his mother or his sire,", "Its shade might guard him from the sun’s hot fire."]}, {"id": "A7.2.53", "lines": ["God filled the Simorgh’s heart with pity mild;", "She lost all thought of feeding on the child."]}, {"id": "A7.2.54", "lines": ["She dropped from cloud with talons opened wide,", "And seized him from the burning mountainside."]}, {"id": "A7.2.55", "lines": ["She bore him swiftly back to Alborz height,", "Where nest and brood were hidden from all sight."]}, {"id": "A7.2.56", "lines": ["She brought him to her chicks to tear as prey;", "His piteous cries rang through the nest that day."]}, {"id": "A7.2.57", "lines": ["But God, who gives all goodness, showed him grace;", "A future still awaited in that place."]}, {"id": "A7.2.58", "lines": ["Blood dripped like tears from both the infant’s eyes;", "The Simorgh and her brood now heard his cries."]}, {"id": "A7.2.59", "lines": ["A wonder seized them; love came after awe;", "They stood amazed at the fair face they saw."]}, {"id": "A7.2.60", "lines": ["She chose the tenderest prey her hunt could give,", "For milkless guest who sucked its blood to live."]}, {"id": "A7.2.61", "lines": ["So in that fashion many seasons sped;", "The child grew fit and flourishing, well fed."]}, {"id": "A7.2.62", "lines": ["As that small child grew mighty in his worth,", "Long years rolled over mountain, sky, and earth."]}, {"id": "A7.2.63", "lines": ["At last he stood, a cypress, straight of limb;", "His chest a silver mount, his waist reed-slim."]}, {"id": "A7.2.64", "lines": ["His story spread, for nothing stays concealed;", "Both good and evil are at last revealed."]}, {"id": "A7.2.65", "lines": ["At last to Sahm, Nariman’s son, came word;", "His fortunate child bore farr, so men had heard."]}, {"id": "A7.3.1", "lines": ["One night Sahm slept, his heart by sorrow worn,", "By Time’s harsh dealings troubled and forlorn."]}, {"id": "A7.3.2", "lines": ["He dreamed a rider hastened out of Hind,", "An Arabian steed beneath him swift as wind."]}, {"id": "A7.3.3", "lines": ["A noble warrior, perfect and complete,", "He rode until he reached the champion’s seat."]}, {"id": "A7.3.4", "lines": ["He brought glad news: “Your son still lives and grows,", "A tall and flourishing branch that fortune shows.”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.5", "lines": ["When Sahm awoke, he called Mobadan near,", "And spoke at length about his dream and fear."]}, {"id": "A7.3.6", "lines": ["He told them all the vision of the night,", "And what the caravans had brought to light."]}, {"id": "A7.3.7", "lines": ["“What do you say of this?” the champion cried.", "“Does wisdom with this hope of mine abide?"]}, {"id": "A7.3.8", "lines": ["Does that small child live on the mountain still,", "Or did the heat and cold combine to kill?”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.9", "lines": ["Then to the Pahlevan the sages told", "Their answer, speaking plainly, frank and bold:"]}, {"id": "A7.3.10", "lines": ["“Who gives no thanks to Yazdan cannot know", "The goodness that His gifts on mortals bestow."]}, {"id": "A7.3.11", "lines": ["On rock and plain both lion and leopard breed;", "In water both fish and nahangs give heed."]}, {"id": "A7.3.12", "lines": ["They rear their young and guard them year by year,", "And send their praise to God with hearts sincere."]}, {"id": "A7.3.13", "lines": ["You broke the covenant goodness had laid,", "And threw your guiltless child away, betrayed."]}, {"id": "A7.3.14", "lines": ["White hair alone distressed you at the sight;", "His body was both pure and shining bright."]}, {"id": "A7.3.15", "lines": ["Do not declare that child already dead;", "Prepare yourself and seek him out instead."]}, {"id": "A7.3.16", "lines": ["Whomever God preserves within His hold", "Will not be ruined either by heat or cold."]}, {"id": "A7.3.17", "lines": ["To God now turn in penitence and pray;", "Through good and evil He alone shows way.”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.18", "lines": ["Next day the grieving champion chose to go,", "Toward lofty Mount Alborz he rode in woe."]}, {"id": "A7.3.19", "lines": ["When night grew dark, his troubled thoughts ran deep,", "And once again his mind inclined to sleep."]}, {"id": "A7.3.20", "lines": ["Again he dreamed: from lofty Mount Hind’s height", "A towering banner rose into his sight."]}, {"id": "A7.3.21", "lines": ["A handsome youth appeared beneath its blaze,", "A mighty army ranked behind his gaze."]}, {"id": "A7.3.22", "lines": ["A Mobad stood in honor at his side;", "A famous sage stood opposite as guide."]}, {"id": "A7.3.23", "lines": ["One of the two stepped toward the champion near,", "And opened bitter speech for Sahm to hear:"]}, {"id": "A7.3.24", "lines": ["“O reckless man, your judgment brings you blame;", "Before Yazdan you cast aside all shame."]}, {"id": "A7.3.25", "lines": ["If birds can nurse a child and see it grow,", "What worth has all the strength that you can show?"]}, {"id": "A7.3.26", "lines": ["If whitening hair in men deserves reproof,", "Your beard and head bear willow leaves as proof."]}, {"id": "A7.3.27", "lines": ["God gave both father and the son you spurned;", "Through your injustice, gifts from Him are burned."]}, {"id": "A7.3.28", "lines": ["Then turn against the Maker if you blame", "The daily changing colors of your frame."]}, {"id": "A7.3.29", "lines": ["The son you held in scorn and cast away", "Is fostered by the Maker every day."]}, {"id": "A7.3.30", "lines": ["No nurse could show him kinder, deeper care;", "While you yourself have little love to share.”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.31", "lines": ["Within his sleep Sahm roared in fierce despair,", "Like some wild lion struggling in a snare."]}, {"id": "A7.3.32", "lines": ["He feared the dream and what Time might reveal,", "What harsher lesson next its wheel might deal."]}, {"id": "A7.3.33", "lines": ["Awake, he called the learned and the wise,", "And seated all his army chiefs before his eyes."]}, {"id": "A7.3.34", "lines": ["Then to the mountain Sahm made haste, to find", "The guiltless child that he had left behind."]}, {"id": "A7.3.35", "lines": ["A mountain thrust its head through Pleiades’ light,", "As though it meant to draw a star from height."]}, {"id": "A7.3.36", "lines": ["Upon it rose a nest so vast and high,", "That Saturn’s stroke could never reach its sky."]}, {"id": "A7.3.37", "lines": ["Its pillars, ebony and sandal, stood;", "All interlaced with fragrant aloeswood."]}, {"id": "A7.3.38", "lines": ["Sahm stared at hard rock and the fearful nest;", "The Simorgh’s savage grandeur gripped his breast."]}, {"id": "A7.3.39", "lines": ["Its summit reached Simak in heaven’s span;", "No stone or earth had raised it, nor a man."]}, {"id": "A7.3.40", "lines": ["A youth moved round the nest in noble guise,", "His father’s likeness clear before Sahm’s eyes."]}, {"id": "A7.3.41", "lines": ["He blessed the Maker, bowing to the ground,", "And rubbed his cheeks upon the stones around."]}, {"id": "A7.3.42", "lines": ["He praised the God who made that bird arise,", "And raised from rock her dwelling toward the skies."]}, {"id": "A7.3.43", "lines": ["Then Sahm knew God, the Judge of every claim,", "Supreme in might above the highest name."]}, {"id": "A7.3.44", "lines": ["He sought a road by which he might ascend;", "No beast could find a pathway to that end."]}, {"id": "A7.3.45", "lines": ["Still praising God, he circled all around,", "But nowhere found a path from lower ground."]}, {"id": "A7.3.46", "lines": ["He cried, “O One beyond all place and height,", "Beyond the rainbow, moon, and solar light,"]}, {"id": "A7.3.47", "lines": ["In penitence before You I draw near;", "My head is bowed, my soul laid down in fear."]}, {"id": "A7.3.48", "lines": ["If this young man comes from my lawful line,", "Not evil Ahriman’s corrupted sign,"]}, {"id": "A7.3.49", "lines": ["Then lend Your servant strength enough to climb,", "And take this sinner back in mercy’s time.”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.50", "lines": ["The moment Sahm had ended that appeal,", "The Just One heard and set upon it His seal."]}, {"id": "A7.3.51", "lines": ["The Simorgh gazed from Alborz’ lofty height,", "And saw Sahm’s company come into sight."]}, {"id": "A7.3.52", "lines": ["She knew he came to seek the castaway;", "No love for her had brought him there that day."]}, {"id": "A7.3.53", "lines": ["She said, “O son of Sahm, who shared my lair", "And nest, and learned the hardships of this air,"]}, {"id": "A7.3.54", "lines": ["I was your nurse and mother at your side;", "I was your good support, your strength and guide."]}, {"id": "A7.3.55", "lines": ["I named you Dastan for your father’s guile,", "For through his guile he cast you out awhile."]}, {"id": "A7.3.56", "lines": ["When you return, make that same naming known,", "And let your father know the name you own."]}, {"id": "A7.3.57", "lines": ["Your father Sahm is champion world-renowned,", "Among the great no nobler chief is found."]}, {"id": "A7.3.58", "lines": ["He comes upon this mountain seeking you;", "Your honor in his keeping will prove true."]}, {"id": "A7.3.59", "lines": ["The time has come; now safely you must go,", "To where your father waits for you below.”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.60", "lines": ["The young man heard; his eyes ran full of tears,", "His heart grew heavy with the grief of years."]}, {"id": "A7.3.61", "lines": ["Though never yet had human speech been heard,", "From Simorgh he had learned the spoken word."]}, {"id": "A7.3.62", "lines": ["He spoke in Simorgh’s manner, clear and bold,", "Rich in deep wisdom and in knowledge old."]}, {"id": "A7.3.63", "lines": ["His speech, good sense, and judgment all were sound;", "And God had wrapped his frame in strength profound."]}, {"id": "A7.3.64", "lines": ["Then Dastan asked the Simorgh, “Can it be", "You tire of my companionship and me?"]}, {"id": "A7.3.65", "lines": ["Your nest has been my royal place of light;", "Your wings, the farr that makes my crown shine bright."]}, {"id": "A7.3.66", "lines": ["Next after God, my gratitude is due", "To you, who made each hardship easy too.”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.67", "lines": ["Simorgh said, “Behold the Kayanian state,", "And learn the royal customs of the great,"]}, {"id": "A7.3.68", "lines": ["Perhaps this nest will not persuade you to stay;", "Go now and test the shifting world and day."]}, {"id": "A7.3.69", "lines": ["I send you not from hatred or from spite;", "I send you toward the throne that is your right."]}, {"id": "A7.3.70", "lines": ["Your staying here would please me, keeping near;", "But kingship is the better path and sphere."]}, {"id": "A7.3.71", "lines": ["Take one of my own feathers with you still;", "Its farr will aid you when you face an ill."]}, {"id": "A7.3.72", "lines": ["If hardship ever comes and brings you fear,", "Or men speak good or evil in your ear,"]}, {"id": "A7.3.73", "lines": ["Then cast one feather straight into the flame;", "Its farr will call me when you speak my name."]}, {"id": "A7.3.74", "lines": ["At once I shall come like cloud across the sky,", "And bear you safely back to Alborz high."]}, {"id": "A7.3.75", "lines": ["Forget not all your nurse’s love for you;", "Your love has torn my heart completely through."]}, {"id": "A7.3.76", "lines": ["Beneath my wing I raised you with my brood,", "As one among my chicks, with shelter and food.”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.77", "lines": ["She soothed his heart and lifted him aloft,", "And bore him through the clouds on pinions soft."]}, {"id": "A7.3.78", "lines": ["She bore him through the air before Sahm’s sight;", "His silver hair streamed past his chest in white."]}, {"id": "A7.3.79", "lines": ["His frame was elephant-like, his face shone bright;", "His father saw and cried aloud with delight."]}, {"id": "A7.3.80", "lines": ["He bowed before the Simorgh to the ground,", "And joined his prayer with blessings all around:"]}, {"id": "A7.3.81", "lines": ["“O queen of birds, the Just One gave to you", "Great strength and power and honar shining through,"]}, {"id": "A7.3.82", "lines": ["Because you bring the helpless aid in need;", "Among all judges, goodness marks your deed."]}, {"id": "A7.3.83", "lines": ["May all who wish you evil suffer wrong;", "Remain forever powerful and strong.”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.84", "lines": ["At once the Simorgh rose in upward flight;", "Sahm and his company watched her out of sight."]}, {"id": "A7.3.85", "lines": ["Then Sahm examined Zal with deepest care,", "And found him fit the Kayanian crown to bear."]}, {"id": "A7.3.86", "lines": ["His breast and arms were lion-strong and bright;", "Sun-faced, sword-seeking, born for battle’s might."]}, {"id": "A7.3.87", "lines": ["His lashes pale, his eyes as pitch were black;", "Coral lips and blood-red cheeks no grace did lack."]}, {"id": "A7.3.88", "lines": ["Except his hair, no fault could Sahm declare;", "Nothing else invited blame or care."]}, {"id": "A7.3.89", "lines": ["Then Sahm’s whole heart became a heaven of joy,", "And blessings fell upon his stainless boy."]}, {"id": "A7.3.90", "lines": ["“My son,” he said, “make gentle now your heart;", "Do not recall the griefs that played their part."]}, {"id": "A7.3.91", "lines": ["I am God’s least and humblest servant still,", "And He has brought you back to me by will."]}, {"id": "A7.3.92", "lines": ["Before great God I swore this oath to keep:", "No hardness toward you shall within me sleep."]}, {"id": "A7.3.93", "lines": ["In good or evil I will seek what you choose;", "Whatever you desire I shall not refuse.”"]}, {"id": "A7.3.94", "lines": ["He clothed the youth in champion’s robe and gown,", "Then with him left the mountain and came down."]}, {"id": "A7.3.95", "lines": ["Below the mountain Sahm measured his frame,", "And called for royal robes that fit the same."]}, {"id": "A7.3.96", "lines": ["Sahm named him Zal-e-Zar before them all;", "Dastan was what the Simorgh used to call."]}, {"id": "A7.3.97", "lines": ["The whole assembled army gathered round;", "With open hearts, their cries of joy resound."]}, {"id": "A7.3.98", "lines": ["The drummers led the elephant in line;", "Indigo dust rose mountain-high behind."]}, {"id": "A7.3.99", "lines": ["The kousts and karnays thundered long and loud;", "Gold bells and Indian bells rang through the crowd."]}, {"id": "A7.3.100", "lines": ["The riders raised their cries along the way,", "And traveled onward joyfully that day."]}, {"id": "A7.3.101", "lines": ["They reached the city, joyful at the last,", "And with its champions through the gateway passed."]}, {"id": "A7.4.1", "lines": ["From Zabul word had reached the Shah afar:", "Sahm left the mountain, bearing sacred farr."]}, {"id": "A7.4.2", "lines": ["Manuchehr then rejoiced at what he heard,", "And praised the World-Creator with each word."]}, {"id": "A7.4.3", "lines": ["Two chosen sons had Manuchehr beside,", "Both wise and brave, with Faith and farr allied."]}, {"id": "A7.4.4", "lines": ["Nohzar was one; Zarasp the other name,", "Like Azargashasp upon the field of fame."]}, {"id": "A7.4.5", "lines": ["He ordered Nohzar, “Ride at once and go", "To Sahm the champion; let no hindrance grow."]}, {"id": "A7.4.6", "lines": ["Behold young Dastan, Sahm’s returning line,", "The mountain brood has reared him strong and fine."]}, {"id": "A7.4.7", "lines": ["Give him the Kayanian blessing from my hand,", "And bless the joy that brings him to the land."]}, {"id": "A7.4.8", "lines": ["Then bid him come before my royal seat,", "And make the hidden story full and complete."]}, {"id": "A7.4.9", "lines": ["Afterward let them toward Zabul go,", "As servants of the crown their duty show.”"]}, {"id": "A7.4.10", "lines": ["When Nohzar reached great Sahm upon the way,", "A new world-champion stood in bright array."]}, {"id": "A7.4.11", "lines": ["Sahm sprang down from his horse as Nohzar came;", "They clasped each other, glad in heart and frame."]}, {"id": "A7.4.12", "lines": ["Of Shah and chiefs the Pahlevan inquired;", "Then Nohzar gave the message he desired."]}, {"id": "A7.4.13", "lines": ["When Sahm had heard what mighty Shah required,", "He kissed the earth, and swiftly he retired."]}, {"id": "A7.4.14", "lines": ["Then swiftly toward the royal court he sped,", "Just as the crown-seeking Shah had said."]}, {"id": "A7.4.15", "lines": ["As Sahm approached the royal city’s gate,", "The army-chief came out in ordered state."]}, {"id": "A7.4.16", "lines": ["When Manuchehr’s great standard rose ahead,", "Sahm left his horse and walked the road instead."]}, {"id": "A7.4.17", "lines": ["He kissed the earth and blessed the king: “May you", "Live ever glad, your spirit bright and true.”"]}, {"id": "A7.4.18", "lines": ["Manuchehr had the pure-hearted warrior ride", "Beside him, worshipful and dignified."]}, {"id": "A7.4.19", "lines": ["Together crown-wearer and crown-seeker went", "Toward throne and hall, on royal purpose bent."]}, {"id": "A7.4.20", "lines": ["Manuchehr mounted gladly to his throne,", "The Kayanian cap upon his head now shone."]}, {"id": "A7.4.21", "lines": ["At one hand Gharan sat, at one sat Sahm;", "Both bright of heart before the Shah were calm."]}, {"id": "A7.4.22", "lines": ["Then Zal came dressed before the royal gaze;", "Gold cap and golden gorz drew courtly praise."]}, {"id": "A7.4.23", "lines": ["The chamberlain brought Zal into the hall;", "The Shah stood struck with wonder over all."]}, {"id": "A7.4.24", "lines": ["So tall his stature, beautiful his face,", "He seemed the soul’s repose and love’s own grace."]}, {"id": "A7.4.25", "lines": ["The Shah told Sahm, “Receive him in your trust;", "Guard him with care; toward him be always just."]}, {"id": "A7.4.26", "lines": ["Do not afflict him needlessly with grief;", "Let joy in him surpass all other relief."]}, {"id": "A7.4.27", "lines": ["He bears Kayanian farr and lion’s claw,", "A wise man’s heart, an elder’s sense of law."]}, {"id": "A7.4.28", "lines": ["Teach him the road and instruments of war,", "And banquet joy and all the feast-day lore."]}, {"id": "A7.4.29", "lines": ["He knows but bird and mountain, nest and sky;", "How should he know the ways that humans live by?”"]}, {"id": "A7.4.30", "lines": ["Then Shah asked of the Simorgh and the height,", "And why the honored child had known such plight."]}, {"id": "A7.4.31", "lines": ["Sahm told it all, each hidden thing and known,", "Of sleep and food and where the boy had grown."]}, {"id": "A7.4.32", "lines": ["He told how Zal was cast away in scorn,", "And how the sky had turned since he was born."]}, {"id": "A7.4.33", "lines": ["In time the tale spread out through every town;", "The names of Zal and Simorgh won renown."]}, {"id": "A7.4.34", "lines": ["“By order of Yazdan of earth I went", "To Alborz, harsh and steep, on search intent."]}, {"id": "A7.4.35", "lines": ["I saw a mountain with its head in cloud,", "A rocky heaven above the waters proud."]}, {"id": "A7.4.36", "lines": ["Upon it rose a dwelling, palace-high,", "With every road of harm shut fast nearby."]}, {"id": "A7.4.37", "lines": ["Within were Simorgh’s chicks and Zal beside;", "They seemed as peers together there allied."]}, {"id": "A7.4.38", "lines": ["The breeze that touched him carried love through air;", "His memory brought joy against despair."]}, {"id": "A7.4.39", "lines": ["No path led upward from a single side;", "Around the mountain searching hard I tried."]}, {"id": "A7.4.40", "lines": ["Desire for my lost son rose fierce and fast;", "My heart burned so my life seemed near its last."]}, {"id": "A7.4.41", "lines": ["I spoke in secret to the Judge most pure:", "‘Healer of creatures, needing no one’s cure,"]}, {"id": "A7.4.42", "lines": ["Your proof and power reach every hidden place;", "The sphere turns only by Your will and grace."]}, {"id": "A7.4.43", "lines": ["A sinful servant stands before Your light,", "O Lord of sun and moon in endless height."]}, {"id": "A7.4.44", "lines": ["My hope rests only in Your pardoning hand;", "I have no other refuge where I stand."]}, {"id": "A7.4.45", "lines": ["This bird-reared servant, humbled, sorrow-bred,", "Was raised in wretchedness, by hardship fed."]}, {"id": "A7.4.46", "lines": ["He wears rough hide where silk should wrap his breast;", "On flesh, not mother’s milk, his life must rest."]}, {"id": "A7.4.47", "lines": ["Restore him to me; make a pathway clear;", "Lead me to him and end this pain and fear."]}, {"id": "A7.4.48", "lines": ["For my cruel deed, do not burn my soul;", "Forgive me, light my heart and make it whole.’"]}, {"id": "A7.4.49", "lines": ["By Yazdan’s will, the moment I had prayed,", "My prayer was heard, and answer swiftly made."]}, {"id": "A7.4.50", "lines": ["The Simorgh beat her wings and climbed the cloud,", "Then wheeled above my head in circles proud."]}, {"id": "A7.4.51", "lines": ["She left the mountain like a cloud in spring,", "With Zal held close beneath her mighty wing."]}, {"id": "A7.4.52", "lines": ["His scent filled all the world with musk that day;", "My eyes and lips grew dry in strange dismay."]}, {"id": "A7.4.53", "lines": ["From awe of her and longing for my child,", "My reason fled; my senses all ran wild."]}, {"id": "A7.4.54", "lines": ["She brought him to me like a nurse whose art", "Was fed from love and mercy in the heart."]}, {"id": "A7.4.55", "lines": ["My tongue broke into praise before the bird;", "I bowed to Simorgh, awed by what occurred."]}, {"id": "A7.4.56", "lines": ["She left my son with me and took her way;", "None may resist what Yazdan wills each day."]}, {"id": "A7.4.57", "lines": ["I brought him here before the world’s great king,", "And told the hidden truth of everything.”"]}, {"id": "A7.5.1", "lines": ["Shah called on Mobadan, stargazers, wise,", "And learned men who read the wheeling skies."]}, {"id": "A7.5.2", "lines": ["“Find Zal’s own star and tell what lord of fate", "Holds sway above that star and rules its state."]}, {"id": "A7.5.3", "lines": ["When he grows great, what path will be his own?", "Declare each sign; let nothing rest unknown.”"]}, {"id": "A7.5.4", "lines": ["The Mobadan and the stargazers began", "To read each sign according to its span."]}, {"id": "A7.5.5", "lines": ["They said, “O Shah who wears the royal crown,", "Live joyful while the turning years roll down."]}, {"id": "A7.5.6", "lines": ["This youth will rise, a Pahlevan of fame,", "In wisdom, war, and courage earn his name.”"]}, {"id": "A7.5.7", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced to hear the judgment said;", "From Sahm’s deep heart the weight of grief had fled."]}, {"id": "A7.5.8", "lines": ["The Shah prepared a robe of honor bright,", "That drew from all who saw it praise and delight:"]}, {"id": "A7.5.9", "lines": ["Arabian steeds in golden trappings came,", "And Indian swords in golden sheaths aflame;"]}, {"id": "A7.5.10", "lines": ["Brocade and fur, red rubies, heaps of gold,", "And carpets, spreads, and fabrics, fold on fold;"]}, {"id": "A7.5.11", "lines": ["Young Roman servants dressed in Roman weave,", "With gold and gems worked thick on every sleeve;"]}, {"id": "A7.5.12", "lines": ["Peridot trays and turquoise cups were shown,", "Raw silver, red gold, bright before the throne;"]}, {"id": "A7.5.13", "lines": ["With musk and camphor, saffron rich and rare,", "The servants bore them, perfuming the air;"]}, {"id": "A7.5.14", "lines": ["Jowshans, helms, bargostvans, gear for the field,", "Spear, gorz, bow, arrow; arms a chief might wield;"]}, {"id": "A7.5.15", "lines": ["A turquoise throne, gold crown, ruby sign,", "And golden girdle completed the design."]}, {"id": "A7.5.16", "lines": ["Then Manuchehr composed a charter fair,", "All filled with praise, like paradise laid bare."]}, {"id": "A7.5.17", "lines": ["All Kabul, Danbar, Mai, and Hind were named,", "From Chin’s vast sea to Sind the grant was framed."]}, {"id": "A7.5.18", "lines": ["From Zabul to the Sea of Bost it ran;", "By royal form they sealed the charter’s span."]}, {"id": "A7.5.19", "lines": ["When charter, robe, and gifts were then set right,", "They called for Sahm’s own horse to stand in sight."]}, {"id": "A7.5.20", "lines": ["Then Sahm arose: “O chosen lord and just,", "In righteousness your people place their trust."]}, {"id": "A7.5.21", "lines": ["From Fish below to Moon’s revolving sphere,", "In justice, no crowned Shah has been your peer."]}, {"id": "A7.5.22", "lines": ["Through kindness, goodness, judgment, wisdom true,", "The age itself finds happiness in you."]}, {"id": "A7.5.23", "lines": ["All worldly treasure seems to you but small;", "May life, not merely name, outlast us all.”"]}, {"id": "A7.5.24", "lines": ["He kissed the throne; upon an elephant’s back", "They firmly bound the koust for Zabul’s track."]}, {"id": "A7.5.25", "lines": ["Toward Zabulistan then they made their way;", "The city, lane by lane, watched their array."]}, {"id": "A7.5.26", "lines": ["As they drew near Nimruz, the tidings spread:", "“The radiant chief approaches at the head."]}, {"id": "A7.5.27", "lines": ["He comes with robe, gold crown, and charter sealed,", "The golden girdle of his rank revealed.”"]}, {"id": "A7.5.28", "lines": ["Sistan was dressed like paradise of old;", "Its flowers breathed musk, its very bricks were gold."]}, {"id": "A7.5.29", "lines": ["They mingled musk with gold across the street,", "And saffron with bright silver at their feet."]}, {"id": "A7.5.30", "lines": ["A joy spread through the world, and lifted high", "The hearts of all who dwelt beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "A7.5.31", "lines": ["Wherever lived a chief who sought a name,", "From every land toward Sahm the nobles came."]}, {"id": "A7.5.32", "lines": ["“May this youth’s step bring fortune to your hall,", "O Sahm, famed Pahlevan, chief of all.”"]}, {"id": "A7.5.33", "lines": ["They blessed the Pahlevan with joyful cry,", "And showered Zal-e-Zar with gems piled high."]}, {"id": "A7.5.34", "lines": ["Whoever merited a robe of state,", "Received one fitted to his rank and fate."]}, {"id": "A7.5.35", "lines": ["Each robe was measured to the wearer’s place;", "All sought a higher rank and greater grace."]}, {"id": "A7.6.1", "lines": ["Then Sahm set forth before his noble son", "The kingly virtues that must all be won."]}, {"id": "A7.6.2", "lines": ["He summoned chiefs and elders, all his peers,", "And spoke at length to fill their waiting ears:"]}, {"id": "A7.6.3", "lines": ["“O wise Mobadan, whose counsel steadies all,", "Whose hearts stand firm whatever may befall,"]}, {"id": "A7.6.4", "lines": ["Our sovereign wills that I should take the field,", "To march on Mazandaran, spear and shield."]}, {"id": "A7.6.5", "lines": ["Against Gorgasaran I now must go,", "With gathered troops to meet the rising foe."]}, {"id": "A7.6.6", "lines": ["My son, my life, my blood, my heart’s own share,", "Remains behind entrusted to your care."]}, {"id": "A7.6.7", "lines": ["In youth’s wild pride I judged him harshly then,", "And cast him out, unworthy among men."]}, {"id": "A7.6.8", "lines": ["God gave this shining son; I turned away,", "Blind to his worth, led by my pride astray."]}, {"id": "A7.6.9", "lines": ["The Simorgh bore him to her mountain height,", "Yet Heaven never left him without light."]}, {"id": "A7.6.10", "lines": ["What I rejected, that great bird held dear,", "And reared him strong, a cypress tall and clear."]}, {"id": "A7.6.11", "lines": ["When time for mercy came, Yazdan above", "Restored him to me in enduring love."]}, {"id": "A7.6.12", "lines": ["So, know him as the memory I leave,", "And as my trust, this charge from me receive."]}, {"id": "A7.6.13", "lines": ["Teach him all virtue, guide his growing mind,", "And form his heart to be both wise and kind."]}, {"id": "A7.6.14", "lines": ["Honor him well, give counsel firm and wise,", "And raise his spirit toward the highest prize."]}, {"id": "A7.6.15", "lines": ["For I must go, as royal duty binds,", "With other chiefs to face what fate assigns.”"]}, {"id": "A7.6.16", "lines": ["He turned to Zal and spoke in softer tone:", "“Rule here in peace, let Zabul be your own."]}, {"id": "A7.6.17", "lines": ["Let justice guide you, let your bounty flow,", "And make this land in beauty ever grow."]}, {"id": "A7.6.18", "lines": ["Let friends know joy, let strangers find their rest,", "Let all live safe, in quiet plenty blest."]}, {"id": "A7.6.19", "lines": ["My treasury I give to you to keep,", "Your gain is mine, your loss cuts just as deep."]}, {"id": "A7.6.20", "lines": ["In feast or war, let judgment lead your way;", "Do what your spirit bids without delay.”"]}, {"id": "A7.6.21", "lines": ["Then Zal replied: “How shall I linger here?", "My birth has branded me a thing of fear."]}, {"id": "A7.6.22", "lines": ["If ever one was flawed from life’s first breath,", "I am the one cast out to shame and death."]}, {"id": "A7.6.23", "lines": ["Do not now keep me further from your side,", "Now peace has come, and fate has turned its tide."]}, {"id": "A7.6.24", "lines": ["When I was reared beneath the bird’s embrace,", "And fed on blood in that wild, lonely place,"]}, {"id": "A7.6.25", "lines": ["With dust my bed, and sky my only dome,", "That wondrous bird became my kin and home."]}, {"id": "A7.6.26", "lines": ["Men counted me no man, but beast or bird;", "So fate pronounced its harsh and bitter word."]}, {"id": "A7.6.27", "lines": ["She that once raised me now is far away!", "Such is the path that destiny did lay."]}, {"id": "A7.6.28", "lines": ["No rose is mine, its thorns alone I claim;", "I bow beneath the burden and the shame.”"]}, {"id": "A7.6.29", "lines": ["Then Sahm replied: “Let grief depart your breast;", "Speak what you wish; your heart shall be at rest."]}, {"id": "A7.6.30", "lines": ["The stars themselves have spoken in your name:", "A crown awaits you, and enduring fame."]}, {"id": "A7.6.31", "lines": ["This land is yours, with army, throne, and reign;", "Against the will of Heaven all strife is vain."]}, {"id": "A7.6.32", "lines": ["Your task is justice, spread it far and wide;", "Let wisdom ever be your constant guide."]}, {"id": "A7.6.33", "lines": ["Draw near the wise and learn from all you hear;", "Keep men of insight always standing near."]}, {"id": "A7.6.34", "lines": ["Be swift in bounty, open-handed, just;", "In knowledge and in judgment place your trust.”"]}, {"id": "A7.6.35", "lines": ["He ceased. Tabiras sounded, deep and loud;", "The earth turned iron beneath an ebony cloud."]}, {"id": "A7.6.36", "lines": ["The gong and Indian bell together rang", "From the royal tent as marching columns sprang."]}, {"id": "A7.6.37", "lines": ["With ordered troops and banners raised on high,", "Sahm rode beneath the darkened, brazen sky."]}, {"id": "A7.6.38", "lines": ["For two long stages Zal rode at his side,", "To watch his father lead the men in pride."]}, {"id": "A7.6.39", "lines": ["At last, they parted, clasped in fierce embrace;", "Grief surged, and tears ran down young Zal’s pale face."]}, {"id": "A7.6.40", "lines": ["Sahm sent him back: “The realm is in your care;", "Take crown and throne and cast aside despair.”"]}, {"id": "A7.6.41", "lines": ["Yet Zal went back with sorrow in his breast,", "A joyless crown, a heart denied its rest."]}, {"id": "A7.6.42", "lines": ["He mounted then the ivory throne of state,", "And set the shining crown of kingly weight."]}, {"id": "A7.6.43", "lines": ["He took the armlet, ox-head gorz in hand,", "Gold torque and girdle, fitted as was planned."]}, {"id": "A7.6.44", "lines": ["He called Mobadan from each distant land,", "To teach him all a king must understand."]}, {"id": "A7.6.45", "lines": ["Astrologers and priests of sacred lore,", "Brave warriors seasoned in the arts of war,"]}, {"id": "A7.6.46", "lines": ["Stood by him daily, guiding every choice,", "On all affairs of state they lent their voice."]}, {"id": "A7.6.47", "lines": ["So well, he learned that all who saw him said:", "“A star has risen, shining overhead.”"]}, {"id": "A7.6.48", "lines": ["In policy and judgment none could stand", "To match the insight of his ruling hand."]}, {"id": "A7.6.49", "lines": ["In worldly rule he rose to heights of fame,", "And great men spoke in wonder of his name."]}, {"id": "A7.6.50", "lines": ["Men, women thronged to gaze upon his frame,", "And marveled at his beauty and his claim."]}, {"id": "A7.6.51", "lines": ["For though his hair was white as camphor’s thread,", "It crowned him like a king’s most noble head."]}]}, {"id": "A8", "title": "The Story of Zal and Rudabeh", "summary": "22 sections · 1,262 couplets", "path": "/poem/a8/", "couplets": [{"id": "A8.1.1", "lines": ["One day young Zal set forth in royal state,", "To stir beyond the borders of his gate."]}, {"id": "A8.1.2", "lines": ["With chosen chiefs who shared his faith and mind,", "He rode with loyal comrades of one kind."]}, {"id": "A8.1.3", "lines": ["To view the lands of Hind and Kabul wide,", "With Mai, Danbar, and Morgh on every side."]}, {"id": "A8.1.4", "lines": ["At every stage a splendid seat was laid,", "With wine and harp, and festival arrayed."]}, {"id": "A8.1.5", "lines": ["He poured out treasure, gave himself to cheer,", "Such is the custom of this transient sphere."]}, {"id": "A8.1.6", "lines": ["With open hand, a glad and carefree heart,", "He reached fair Kabul, pleased to play his part."]}, {"id": "A8.1.7", "lines": ["There ruled a monarch, Mehrab was his name,", "A lord of wealth, established power, and fame,"]}, {"id": "A8.1.8", "lines": ["In form a cypress, tall and finely made,", "His springlike bloom and stately step displayed."]}, {"id": "A8.1.9", "lines": ["A wise man’s heart, a noble’s mind refined,", "A warrior’s shoulders, Mobad wit combined."]}, {"id": "A8.1.10", "lines": ["From Zahhak’s Tazi stock his lineage came,", "He ruled Kabul and held its lands in name."]}, {"id": "A8.1.11", "lines": ["But lacking strength to stand with Sahm in might,", "He sent his tribute yearly as was right."]}, {"id": "A8.1.12", "lines": ["When news arrived that Sahm’s own son drew near,", "He rose at dawn and gathered treasures dear,"]}, {"id": "A8.1.13", "lines": ["Fine steeds adorned, slave-boys and minted gold,", "With musk and rubies, silks of broidered fold,"]}, {"id": "A8.1.14", "lines": ["With ambergris and gold-brocaded ware,", "And peridot set bright with jeweler’s care."]}, {"id": "A8.1.15", "lines": ["Rich furs and crowns with jewels all set in light,", "And golden torques that shimmered full and bright."]}, {"id": "A8.1.16", "lines": ["With chiefs and troops in long and ordered line,", "He came to greet young Zal in state benign."]}, {"id": "A8.1.17", "lines": ["The word reached Zal: “The lord of Kabul rides", "With all his court and power on all sides.”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.18", "lines": ["Then Zal went forth to meet him on the plain,", "With courtesy that honored both their reigns."]}, {"id": "A8.1.19", "lines": ["In joy they came together, side by side,", "And mounted to the throne in mutual pride."]}, {"id": "A8.1.20", "lines": ["A feast was spread, befitting men of name,", "And wine flowed freely as the minstrels came."]}, {"id": "A8.1.21", "lines": ["While cups were passed and music filled the air,", "Young Zal beheld Mehrab with measured care;"]}, {"id": "A8.1.22", "lines": ["He gazed with wonder, stirred by what he saw,", "And felt both admiration and deep awe."]}, {"id": "A8.1.23", "lines": ["At Mehrab’s wisdom Zal was satisfied:", "“The father of such a man has never died.”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.24", "lines": ["When Mehrab rose, Zal watched his noble frame,", "And spoke before the chiefs in loud acclaim:"]}, {"id": "A8.1.25", "lines": ["“Who matched his grace when girded for the field?", "What equal frame has ever armor sealed?"]}, {"id": "A8.1.26", "lines": ["In look and carriage who could rival him?", "What warrior stands his equal, life and limb?”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.27", "lines": ["A noble standing near then raised his voice,", "And made Zal’s listening heart at once rejoice:"]}, {"id": "A8.1.28", "lines": ["“My lord, he has a daughter fair of face,", "A wonder formed of beauty, form, and grace."]}, {"id": "A8.1.29", "lines": ["More radiant than sunlight after rain,", "From head to foot like ivory without stain."]}, {"id": "A8.1.30", "lines": ["Her stature is a saj-tree, straight and high,", "Her face a paradise beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "A8.1.31", "lines": ["Two musk-black kamands deck her shoulders white,", "Their ends like anklet-rings curl close and tight."]}, {"id": "A8.1.32", "lines": ["Her mouth a pomegranate blossom’s flame,", "Her lips the fruit that puts red gems to shame."]}, {"id": "A8.1.33", "lines": ["Two pomegranates swell upon her breast,", "Her narcissus eyes give every heart unrest."]}, {"id": "A8.1.34", "lines": ["Her lashes borrow darkness from the night,", "Her brows are bows drawn firm in perfect height."]}, {"id": "A8.1.35", "lines": ["Seek out the moon: it shines upon her face;", "Seek musk: it breathes from every darkened trace."]}, {"id": "A8.1.36", "lines": ["From head to foot a marvel past all price,", "A living, breathing, earthly paradise.”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.37", "lines": ["These words stirred tumult in young Zal’s own soul,", "And robbed his reason, spurning all control."]}, {"id": "A8.1.38", "lines": ["He thought: “If such the father’s noble grace,", "What must be hers, what light must fill her face?”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.39", "lines": ["Night fell; he sat in troubled, silent care,", "Consumed by one unseen, yet called most fair."]}, {"id": "A8.1.40", "lines": ["When dawn struck bright upon the mountain’s crest,", "The world in crystal-white was newly dressed."]}, {"id": "A8.1.41", "lines": ["The warriors gathered, golden swords arrayed,", "And stood before young Zal, their homage paid."]}, {"id": "A8.1.42", "lines": ["The Pahlevan’s court stood ordered that day,", "As fit for chiefs who came in proud array."]}, {"id": "A8.1.43", "lines": ["Then Mehrab, Kabul’s lord, resumed his way,", "Toward Zal’s pavilion at the dawn’s first ray."]}, {"id": "A8.1.44", "lines": ["Before the tent the herald’s cry rang clear:", "“Make way! The lord of all Kabul draws near!”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.45", "lines": ["Fresh as a laden tree in bloom he came,", "And Zal received him warmly, praised his name."]}, {"id": "A8.1.46", "lines": ["Zal’s heart grew glad; in honor of his guest,", "He seated Mehrab high above the rest."]}, {"id": "A8.1.47", "lines": ["Then Zal spoke warmly, honoring his renown:", "“Ask what you will; my throne, seal, sword, or crown.”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.48", "lines": ["Mehrab replied: “O king whose word is law,", "Victorious lord whom all behold with awe,"]}, {"id": "A8.1.49", "lines": ["One wish alone I cherish in this life,", "And granting it would bring you little strife:"]}, {"id": "A8.1.50", "lines": ["That you would visit me and light my hall,", "And make my spirit rise beyond its wall.”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.51", "lines": ["But Zal said: “No, this cannot come to pass;", "Such paths are not for us to tread, alas."]}, {"id": "A8.1.52", "lines": ["My father would not sanction such a deed,", "Nor would the Shah approve where it might lead."]}, {"id": "A8.1.53", "lines": ["They would hear we drink our wine till drunk we grow,", "Then to the idol-worshippers we go."]}, {"id": "A8.1.54", "lines": ["Ask anything but this; I shall comply,", "And gladly look on you with favoring eye.”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.55", "lines": ["Mehrab spoke blessings, outwardly serene;", "Within, he judged Zal faithless and unclean."]}, {"id": "A8.1.56", "lines": ["Then Mehrab left the throne with measured pace,", "And blessed Zal’s fortune as he left the place."]}, {"id": "A8.1.57", "lines": ["Zal watched him go and praised him to the crowd,", "And Mehrab’s worth before the chiefs avowed."]}, {"id": "A8.1.58", "lines": ["For long had many deemed him strange, apart,", "An outland being, distant in his heart;"]}, {"id": "A8.1.59", "lines": ["Because he did not share their path or creed,", "Their tongues withheld the praise his worth might need."]}, {"id": "A8.1.60", "lines": ["But when Zal spoke with warmth and open praise,", "The courtiers too began their tongues to raise,"]}, {"id": "A8.1.61", "lines": ["Then one by one the nobles praised his name,", "And every chief acknowledged Mehrab’s fame."]}, {"id": "A8.1.62", "lines": ["They lauded now his stature, speech, and grace,", "His polished manners and his measured pace."]}, {"id": "A8.1.63", "lines": ["But Zal himself was lost in inward fire,", "His reason dimmed by newly waked desire."]}, {"id": "A8.1.64", "lines": ["An Arab chief once spoke in caution thus:", "“A horse and open sky suffice for us."]}, {"id": "A8.1.65", "lines": ["I need no bride, lest vanity arise,", "And bring me shame before the learned wise.”"]}, {"id": "A8.1.66", "lines": ["Yet Zal, now pierced and restless in his mind,", "Could neither peace nor former wisdom find."]}, {"id": "A8.1.67", "lines": ["He feared the tongues that scandal sets in play,", "To stain the honor that had come his way."]}, {"id": "A8.1.68", "lines": ["So turned the heavens slowly overhead,", "While love and doubt within his spirit spread."]}, {"id": "A8.2.1", "lines": ["At dawn one day, when morning light was new,", "Mehrab came back from Zal’s court as dawn grew."]}, {"id": "A8.2.2", "lines": ["And toward the women’s chamber made his way,", "Where two bright suns outshone the dawning day."]}, {"id": "A8.2.3", "lines": ["One was Rudabeh, radiant was her face,", "Mehrab’s fair daughter, bright as heaven’s grace,"]}, {"id": "A8.2.4", "lines": ["The other, Sindokht, in her counsel wise,", "His cherished queen, the light before his eyes."]}, {"id": "A8.2.5", "lines": ["Both lay adorned like gardens rich in bloom,", "With scent and color filling all the room."]}, {"id": "A8.2.6", "lines": ["He gazed at Rudabeh in deep delight,", "And blessed her beauty, shining soft and bright."]}, {"id": "A8.2.7", "lines": ["She seemed a cypress in the moonlight fair,", "With ambergris-dark locks and silken wear."]}, {"id": "A8.2.8", "lines": ["A living treasure, gleaming to the view,", "A hoard that gladdened every eye it drew."]}, {"id": "A8.2.9", "lines": ["Then Sindokht smiled, her teeth like pearls revealed,", "Her purpose hidden, and her thoughts concealed:"]}, {"id": "A8.2.10", "lines": ["“How went your visit? Tell me what you saw.", "May fortune shine on you without a flaw."]}, {"id": "A8.2.11", "lines": ["What kind of man is Zal, with snow-white hair?", "More fit for throne, or for the mountain lair?"]}, {"id": "A8.2.12", "lines": ["Does he behave as men of honor should,", "And walk the path of chiefs both brave and good?”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.13", "lines": ["Mehrab replied: “No warrior on this earth", "Can match his bearing or his proven worth."]}, {"id": "A8.2.14", "lines": ["No equal form has graced these royal walls,", "No firmer hand has answered battle’s calls."]}, {"id": "A8.2.15", "lines": ["In heart a lion, elephant in might,", "His arms like Nile’s broad waters in their flight."]}, {"id": "A8.2.16", "lines": ["Upon the throne, his gifts and honors flow,", "In war, he strikes and lays his foemen low."]}, {"id": "A8.2.17", "lines": ["His face is bright as blossoms newly grown,", "His mind is sharp, his rising fortune known."]}, {"id": "A8.2.18", "lines": ["In vengeance like a mighty nahang of dread,", "In saddle like a sharp-clawed dragon sped."]}, {"id": "A8.2.19", "lines": ["He turns the dust to red upon the plain,", "And wields a blade no enemy can restrain."]}, {"id": "A8.2.20", "lines": ["One fault alone is said where he is known:", "His hair is white! No other flaw is shown."]}, {"id": "A8.2.21", "lines": ["Yet even this becomes him in my sight;", "He draws all hearts despite that streak of white.”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.22", "lines": ["When Rudabeh heard this, her cheeks flushed red,", "Like blossoms opening on a rose-bright bed."]}, {"id": "A8.2.23", "lines": ["Her heart filled suddenly with longing fire,", "And love for Zal consumed her with desire."]}, {"id": "A8.2.24", "lines": ["She could not rest or eat or think with ease,", "Her thoughts were tossed like leaves on restless seas."]}, {"id": "A8.2.25", "lines": ["Her nature changed, her peace was cast aside,", "And passion ruled where reason once did guide."]}, {"id": "A8.2.26", "lines": ["A counselor once spoke this warning clear:", "“Do not speak much of men where women hear.”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.27", "lines": ["“A woman’s heart,” he said, “the Div may claim;", "From what she hears, she fashions her own aim.”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.28", "lines": ["Rudabeh had five Turk maidens at her side,", "All loyal, thoughtful, steadfast, true, and tried."]}, {"id": "A8.2.29", "lines": ["To them she spoke: “I hold a secret deep,", "A truth I trust you all to guard and keep."]}, {"id": "A8.2.30", "lines": ["Attend me now and help me through this fire;", "And understand the weight of my desire."]}, {"id": "A8.2.31", "lines": ["You five have shared my fortune year by year,", "My confidantes in every hope and fear."]}, {"id": "A8.2.32", "lines": ["Know this: I love, and like a storming sea", "My heart swells high with waves that master me."]}, {"id": "A8.2.33", "lines": ["My thoughts are fixed on Zal, and cannot stray;", "His image will not turn or fade away."]}, {"id": "A8.2.34", "lines": ["His love has seized my mind, my sense, my breath;", "Without him I am lost in living death."]}, {"id": "A8.2.35", "lines": ["Though I have never seen his face or frame,", "Report alone has set my heart aflame."]}, {"id": "A8.2.36", "lines": ["It is not beauty, nor his silver hair;", "His worth alone has drawn me to its snare.”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.37", "lines": ["The maidens heard and trembled in surprise:", "“The princess speaks in folly and denies"]}, {"id": "A8.2.38", "lines": ["Her honor, rank, and all her noble place!", "How can she seek such love in such a case?”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.39", "lines": ["They rose against her, voices sharp with fear,", "And spoke with force that filled the chamber clear:"]}, {"id": "A8.2.40", "lines": ["“O crown of women, shining bright and high,", "Praised from Hind to Chin underneath the sky,"]}, {"id": "A8.2.41", "lines": ["Your painted likeness reaches courts afar,", "To Ghanooj, Mai, and lands beneath each star."]}, {"id": "A8.2.42", "lines": ["No cypress equals you in form and height,", "Your beauty dims the stars that shine at night."]}, {"id": "A8.2.43", "lines": ["Your image travels far across the land,", "Desired by kings who seek your noble hand."]}, {"id": "A8.2.44", "lines": ["Have you forgotten rank and duty owed,", "That you would take this strange and reckless road?"]}, {"id": "A8.2.45", "lines": ["His father cast him out in shame and doubt,", "A child whom none would dare to speak about."]}, {"id": "A8.2.46", "lines": ["He lived upon a mountain, wild and bare,", "No human kin, sustained by a bird’s care."]}, {"id": "A8.2.47", "lines": ["No mother ever bore an old man so;", "Why seek the white-haired man your heart would know?"]}, {"id": "A8.2.48", "lines": ["Your beauty draws all hearts; your fame is wide,", "Why choose a man the world has set aside?"]}, {"id": "A8.2.49", "lines": ["Even the sun would leave its shining sphere,", "To claim a bride whose worth shines bright and clear!”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.50", "lines": ["Rudabeh heard, and anger filled her breast,", "Like fire stirred by wind that knows no rest."]}, {"id": "A8.2.51", "lines": ["With grim-set face and anger in her eyes,", "She bent her brows before her fierce replies."]}, {"id": "A8.2.52", "lines": ["She turned on them with flashing eyes and cried:", "“Your words are empty! None can turn my tide!"]}, {"id": "A8.2.53", "lines": ["If one loves stars, what lesser flame will do?", "How could the moon content a heart so true?"]}, {"id": "A8.2.54", "lines": ["Can mud replace the rose in scent and hue?", "Who feeds on clay will pass the flower from view."]}, {"id": "A8.2.55", "lines": ["If bitter draft can heal the body’s pain,", "Then sweetness only deepens loss and strain."]}, {"id": "A8.2.56", "lines": ["No Caesar, nor Chin’s Faghfoor, nor a lord", "Crowned in Iran, can win my heart’s accord."]}, {"id": "A8.2.57", "lines": ["Zal, son of Sahm, is strength enough for me,", "In him I find the peace I long to see."]}, {"id": "A8.2.58", "lines": ["Call him what others will, both old and young!", "My heart is his, on him my hope is hung."]}, {"id": "A8.2.59", "lines": ["Speak not of others; he alone I choose,", "Though never seen, his love I cannot lose."]}, {"id": "A8.2.60", "lines": ["My heart chose Zal unseen from what I heard;", "This love was born from every praising word."]}, {"id": "A8.2.61", "lines": ["I do not love his features or his hair;", "It is his worth that binds me; worth so rare.”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.62", "lines": ["The maidens heard her clear, determined voice,", "And answered: “We will honor every choice.”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.63", "lines": ["Their cold reproach dissolved in kinder tone,", "As love itself now made her cause their own:"]}, {"id": "A8.2.64", "lines": ["“We are your servants, loyal, firm, and true;", "Command us now, what must we strive to do?”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.65", "lines": ["One said: “Let none beyond this circle know.", "For you, a hundred thousand lives we bestow."]}, {"id": "A8.2.66", "lines": ["If craft or cunning must be brought to play,", "Or subtle arts employed along the way,"]}, {"id": "A8.2.67", "lines": ["We will move swift as birds that cleave the air,", "Or run like deer to serve you anywhere."]}, {"id": "A8.2.68", "lines": ["We shall convey this prince, your chosen one,", "And bring him to your side when day is done!”"]}, {"id": "A8.2.69", "lines": ["They cast their stern objections to the ground,", "And swore to serve the princess of renown."]}, {"id": "A8.2.70", "lines": ["Rudabeh smiled with joy and eyes alight,", "And answered them with measured, calm delight:"]}, {"id": "A8.2.71", "lines": ["“If you can bring this matter to its end,", "You shall plant a flourishing tree, my faithful friend,"]}, {"id": "A8.2.72", "lines": ["A lofty tree that bears rubies each day,", "With wisdom gathering fruit along the way.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.1", "lines": ["The maidens rose and hastened to their task,", "Though anxious, still they did as she had asked."]}, {"id": "A8.3.2", "lines": ["They sought a cure for what they could not mend,", "Yet moved as loyal servants to the end."]}, {"id": "A8.3.3", "lines": ["In Roman brocade, splendidly arrayed,", "Their curls upon their rose-bright faces laid."]}, {"id": "A8.3.4", "lines": ["The five went forth toward the river’s side,", "Like springtime moving bright in fragrant pride."]}, {"id": "A8.3.5", "lines": ["The month was Farvardin, the year’s first breath,", "When earth renews itself from winter’s death,"]}, {"id": "A8.3.6", "lines": ["And Zal’s encampment lined the river’s flank,", "While they stood watching from the farther bank."]}, {"id": "A8.3.7", "lines": ["Their talk was all of Zal as on they strayed,", "His name the only music that they made."]}, {"id": "A8.3.8", "lines": ["They gathered roses scattered by the stream,", "Their cheeks like blossoms in a perfumed dream."]}, {"id": "A8.3.9", "lines": ["They wandered lightly, gathering flowers in play,", "Until the royal pavilion faced their way."]}, {"id": "A8.3.10", "lines": ["Then Zal, who watched them from his place on high,", "Turned to his men and asked them to reply."]}, {"id": "A8.3.11", "lines": ["“Who are these maidens, bright as flowers in spring,", "That seem like roses sweetly blossoming?”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.12", "lines": ["One answered: “From the halls of Mehrab’s queen", "These waiting-maids have come, in beauty seen."]}, {"id": "A8.3.13", "lines": ["They walk abroad at Rudabeh’s command,", "The pride and glory of fair Kabul’s land.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.14", "lines": ["At once Zal’s heart leapt up, no more at rest,", "For love already burned within his breast."]}, {"id": "A8.3.15", "lines": ["With but one servant near, he left his seat,", "And paced the bank where wind and water meet."]}, {"id": "A8.3.16", "lines": ["Across the stream the maidens caught his sight;", "He drew himself to all his lordly height."]}, {"id": "A8.3.17", "lines": ["He called for bow and arrow to be brought,", "And searched for prey as though by instinct taught."]}, {"id": "A8.3.18", "lines": ["He went on foot and marked the swimming bird", "That crossed the current, scarcely seen or heard."]}, {"id": "A8.3.19", "lines": ["His Turk then strung the bow, its curve drawn tight,", "And placed it in Zal’s left hand for the flight."]}, {"id": "A8.3.20", "lines": ["The bow was drawn, the arrow notched and true,", "He loosed the shaft, and to the mark it flew."]}, {"id": "A8.3.21", "lines": ["The bird fell bleeding; red the river ran;", "“Cross over; bring it back,” the chief began."]}, {"id": "A8.3.22", "lines": ["That good man crossed the stream by boat to where", "The maidens gathered close with watchful stare."]}, {"id": "A8.3.23", "lines": ["“That warrior whom we see across the way;", "Who is he? Tell us what you know today."]}, {"id": "A8.3.24", "lines": ["Who is this lion-armed, elephant-built chief?", "What king commands him? Tell us now in brief."]}, {"id": "A8.3.25", "lines": ["What foe could stand against that archer’s skill?", "We have not seen such mastery of will."]}, {"id": "A8.3.26", "lines": ["No rider have we seen so fit and fair,", "So masterful with arrows through the air.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.27", "lines": ["The boy pressed teeth to lip: “Speak not this way", "Of such a Shah; take care in what you say."]}, {"id": "A8.3.28", "lines": ["He rules in Nimruz, sprung from Sahm’s own race,", "A chief whom kings acknowledge in his place."]}, {"id": "A8.3.29", "lines": ["They call him Dastan; none can match his name;", "No age will see one more of equal fame.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.30", "lines": ["The maidens laughed and answered, “Say no more;", "A wonder waits within the palace door."]}, {"id": "A8.3.31", "lines": ["Within Kabul there shines a brighter light,", "A form that dims the very sun from sight."]}, {"id": "A8.3.32", "lines": ["Her stature like a saj-tree, slender, white,", "A musk-crowned moon, a form of pure delight."]}, {"id": "A8.3.33", "lines": ["Her nose is shaped like silver pen made fine,", "A perfect stroke along the facial line."]}, {"id": "A8.3.34", "lines": ["Two dark narcissus eyes beneath brows bent,", "With sleepy magic through their glances sent."]}, {"id": "A8.3.35", "lines": ["Her mouth is narrow as a heart in pain,", "Her curls fall ring on ring like anklet chain."]}, {"id": "A8.3.36", "lines": ["Her cheeks are tulip-red, her eyes half-sleep,", "And musk-black hair falls fragrant, dark, and deep."]}, {"id": "A8.3.37", "lines": ["Her lips so narrow breath can scarcely flow;", "No moonlike her can all the heavens show."]}, {"id": "A8.3.38", "lines": ["From Kabul we have come to Zabul’s king,", "To make her ruby lips to Sahm’s son cling."]}, {"id": "A8.3.39", "lines": ["For she and Zal are equals, both in worth;", "Such union fits the order of the earth.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.40", "lines": ["The youth flushed red and answered with delight:", "“The sun may wed the moon when stars stand right."]}, {"id": "A8.3.41", "lines": ["When fate intends a union, hearts are bound;", "When fate divides, no joining can be found."]}, {"id": "A8.3.42", "lines": ["Division shows; the joining stays unseen;", "Such is the world’s enduring, timeless scene."]}, {"id": "A8.3.43", "lines": ["A warrior who keeps himself from mate", "May live concealed and free from household fate."]}, {"id": "A8.3.44", "lines": ["He may refuse a wife for fear instead", "That from his seed a daughter may be bred."]}, {"id": "A8.3.45", "lines": ["The male hawk said, when on the egg to brood,", "His mate spread out her wings in watchful mood:"]}, {"id": "A8.3.46", "lines": ["‘If from this egg a living offspring grows,", "From father’s seed as much as mother’s flows.’”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.47", "lines": ["The servant came back smiling from the place,", "His silver teeth shone brightly in his face."]}, {"id": "A8.3.48", "lines": ["Then Zal looked on, and wondered at his glee:", "“What did they tell you by the garden tree?”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.49", "lines": ["The youth told all; Zal’s spirit leapt with fire,", "Renewed by hope and sharpened with desire."]}, {"id": "A8.3.50", "lines": ["“Return,” he said, “and bid them linger where", "The roses breathe their scent upon the air."]}, {"id": "A8.3.51", "lines": ["To gather flowers, jewels, they may stay;", "Let them remain and do not haste away."]}, {"id": "A8.3.52", "lines": ["Do not return yet to the palace hall;", "Wait till my secret message gives the call.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.53", "lines": ["He gathered gold and gems of richest kind,", "With brocades rare as merchants seldom find. "]}, {"id": "A8.3.54", "lines": ["Five splendid seven-hued brocades he chose,", "And sent them by a trusted man, kept close."]}, {"id": "A8.3.55", "lines": ["The messenger approached the maidens sweet,", "And brought the hidden treasures to their feet."]}, {"id": "A8.3.56", "lines": ["He gave the gold and jewels in Zal’s name,", "And warm words from the world-champion came."]}, {"id": "A8.3.57", "lines": ["One maiden spoke: “A secret shared by two", "Is safe; but tell a third and it breaks through."]}, {"id": "A8.3.58", "lines": ["When four have heard, then five will hear it plain;", "And what was whispered soon becomes refrain."]}, {"id": "A8.3.59", "lines": ["So tell your master, if truth he would speak,", "Let him come forth and find out what he seeks.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.60", "lines": ["“The male lion is caught within the snare,", "And all we hoped for has fallen to our share."]}, {"id": "A8.3.61", "lines": ["The wishes they have both desired and planned", "Now ripen, guided onward by our hand.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.62", "lines": ["The black-eyed treasurer recrossed the stream,", "The trusted agent in this secret scheme."]}, {"id": "A8.3.63", "lines": ["He told his master all that he had heard;", "Zal listened closely to his every word."]}, {"id": "A8.3.64", "lines": ["Then Zal himself went swiftly to the flowers,", "To meet the maidens in the garden bowers."]}, {"id": "A8.3.65", "lines": ["They came before him, bowed upon the ground,", "Their flower-bright faces gathered all around."]}, {"id": "A8.3.66", "lines": ["He asked of Rudabeh’s stature and her face,", "Her form, her bearing, every outward grace."]}, {"id": "A8.3.67", "lines": ["Her speech, her judgment, wisdom, heart, and mind;", "What in her nature he would truly find."]}, {"id": "A8.3.68", "lines": ["“Tell me each thing,” he said, “one after one;", "Let crooked speech or falsehood enter none."]}, {"id": "A8.3.69", "lines": ["If all you tell is truthful in my sight,", "Your honor shall be guarded as is right."]}, {"id": "A8.3.70", "lines": ["But if I sense deception in your breath,", "Beneath elephants’ feet you shall meet death.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.71", "lines": ["Their faces paled; they kissed the earth in fear;", "The youngest, bold of speech, then answered clear:"]}, {"id": "A8.3.72", "lines": ["“Among the great no man from mother came", "To match great Sahm in stature and in fame;"]}, {"id": "A8.3.73", "lines": ["In purity of heart, in wisdom, sight,", "In judgment and in knowledge of the right."]}, {"id": "A8.3.74", "lines": ["And after Sahm no rider can compare", "With your great height and lion arms laid bare."]}, {"id": "A8.3.75", "lines": ["No man can rival your commanding air,", "Or match the lion strength your shoulders bear."]}, {"id": "A8.3.76", "lines": ["And Rudabeh, no equal can be found,", "A silver cypress, scent and color crowned."]}, {"id": "A8.3.77", "lines": ["From head to foot, all rose and jasmine bright,", "Canopus crowns the cypress in her height."]}, {"id": "A8.3.78", "lines": ["It seems perfume itself drips from her face;", "Her hair is ambergris in scented grace."]}, {"id": "A8.3.79", "lines": ["From silver dome to earth her kamand falls,", "A snare of hair hung down the garden walls."]}, {"id": "A8.3.80", "lines": ["Her hair is musk and ambergris entwined;", "Her jeweled body leaves all wealth behind."]}, {"id": "A8.3.81", "lines": ["Her curls, a blackened jowshan, loop and trail,", "A musk-dark armor falling like a veil."]}, {"id": "A8.3.82", "lines": ["Ten fingers, silver pens in shape and line,", "With ghaliya traced in many a dark design."]}, {"id": "A8.3.83", "lines": ["No idol-maker in all Chin could trace", "Her equal; Moon and Pleiades praise her grace.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.84", "lines": ["Zal, stirred by this, replied in softened tone:", "“Tell me what path might make her heart my own."]}, {"id": "A8.3.85", "lines": ["I love her wholly, heart and soul combined,", "And long to see the face that fills my mind.”"]}, {"id": "A8.3.86", "lines": ["They answered: “We will hurry back, and raise", "Our voices for you, speaking all your praise."]}, {"id": "A8.3.87", "lines": ["We shall praise your wisdom, speech, and noble face,", "Your radiant spirit and your Pahlevan grace."]}, {"id": "A8.3.88", "lines": ["With skillful speech we shall engage her ear,", "Yet twist no word nor bring one falsehood near."]}, {"id": "A8.3.89", "lines": ["Her musk-dark head we shall draw to the bait,", "And bring her lips to you, Sahm’s son, who wait."]}, {"id": "A8.3.90", "lines": ["Then come yourself, your kamand in your hand,", "Beneath her lofty palace wall to stand."]}, {"id": "A8.3.91", "lines": ["Cast its loop round the battlement, and dare;", "The lion shall rejoice; the lamb his share."]}, {"id": "A8.3.92", "lines": ["Then see her face and judge what pleases you;", "May joy increase from what we say and do.”"]}, {"id": "A8.4.1", "lines": ["The maidens left, and Zal endured the night", "As though a year withheld all morning light."]}, {"id": "A8.4.2", "lines": ["Meanwhile they reached the palace gate; they bore", "The river-roses gathered on the shore."]}, {"id": "A8.4.3", "lines": ["Each bore two sprays, and as they slipped inside,", "The porter saw them pass, and loudly cried:"]}, {"id": "A8.4.4", "lines": ["“A fine hour this to wander far outside!", "I marvel at your roaming, wild and wide.”"]}, {"id": "A8.4.5", "lines": ["The maidens, pressed and startled by his voice,", "Prepared their answer; silence was no choice."]}, {"id": "A8.4.6", "lines": ["“This day is like all others, why this care?", "No lurking evil haunts the garden air."]}, {"id": "A8.4.7", "lines": ["It is the spring, we gather blooms for play,", "Hyacinths and roses we picked today."]}, {"id": "A8.4.8", "lines": ["Why then rebuke us with such bitter blame", "For gathering spring blossoms; is that shame?”"]}, {"id": "A8.4.9", "lines": ["He answered: “This is not the time to roam;", "Take heed, for danger gathers close to home."]}, {"id": "A8.4.10", "lines": ["Zal, son of Sahm, is camped in Kabul’s land,", "His tents and warriors spread on every hand."]}, {"id": "A8.4.11", "lines": ["At dawn your lord rides forth to meet the heir,", "And friendship now has grown between the pair."]}, {"id": "A8.4.12", "lines": ["If he should find you wandering this way,", "You would be seized and punished where you stray.”"]}, {"id": "A8.4.13", "lines": ["They passed within and sought their mistress out,", "And told their secrets, joy beyond all doubt."]}, {"id": "A8.4.14", "lines": ["“No sun so bright has ever met our sight;", "His cheeks are ruddy, ivory tresses white!”"]}, {"id": "A8.4.15", "lines": ["Rudabeh’s heart leapt high with sudden flame,", "And longing rose when anyone said his name."]}, {"id": "A8.4.16", "lines": ["They laid his gifts before her, gold and bright,", "The jewels that shimmered softly in the light."]}, {"id": "A8.4.17", "lines": ["She questioned them: “Tell all; conceal no part:", "What did you find in Zal, that lion-heart?"]}, {"id": "A8.4.18", "lines": ["Is he indeed as worthy as men say?", "Or is his fame but smoke that drifts away?”"]}, {"id": "A8.4.19", "lines": ["Encouraged now, the maidens spoke as one:", "“No finer horseman lives beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "A8.4.20", "lines": ["A cypress in his stature, straight and tall,", "With royal grace that crowns and conquers all."]}, {"id": "A8.4.21", "lines": ["What form, what color, what commanding air!", "What slender waist, what shoulders broad and square!"]}, {"id": "A8.4.22", "lines": ["His eyes are like narcissi wet with dew,", "His lips like coral, cheeks like roses new."]}, {"id": "A8.4.23", "lines": ["His arms are lion-strong in bone and might,", "Mobad at heart, with royal farr alight."]}, {"id": "A8.4.24", "lines": ["His white hair is a fault, but no disgrace;", "It lends him wonder, adding to his grace."]}, {"id": "A8.4.25", "lines": ["His silver curls lie like a jowshan, pale,", "On arghavan-red bloom beneath their veil."]}, {"id": "A8.4.26", "lines": ["Indeed, he seems as though he should be so;", "Were he not thus, how could affection grow?"]}, {"id": "A8.4.27", "lines": ["We told him he should see you; hope took fire,", "And all his heart was kindled with desire."]}, {"id": "A8.4.28", "lines": ["Now think what means may bring him safely near,", "And tell us what to say when next we hear.”"]}, {"id": "A8.4.29", "lines": ["She smiled and flushed, then spoke in playful guise:", "“But yesterday you judged him otherwise!"]}, {"id": "A8.4.30", "lines": ["That he was old, bird-reared, a withered thing!", "Now suddenly he soars like a lord and king?"]}, {"id": "A8.4.31", "lines": ["You praised my face to him in honeyed voice,", "Then claimed a price for helping in my choice.”"]}, {"id": "A8.4.32", "lines": ["Yet still she smiled, her cheeks grew warm and bright,", "Like pomegranates touched by soft moonlight."]}, {"id": "A8.4.33", "lines": ["Then to one maid she spoke in lowered tone:", "“At night go forth and seek him on your own."]}, {"id": "A8.4.34", "lines": ["Give him this message: ‘All your hopes are true;", "Prepare yourself: your Moon now waits for you."]}, {"id": "A8.4.35", "lines": ["Now let us shape the means with quiet art,", "For Heaven gave this love into your heart.’”"]}, {"id": "A8.4.36", "lines": ["Rudabeh made all ready, yet seemed still,", "While none among her kin suspected ill."]}, {"id": "A8.4.37", "lines": ["She raised a pavilion fresh as spring in bloom,", "With noble portraits gracing every room."]}, {"id": "A8.4.38", "lines": ["Her servants draped it richly, fold on fold,", "With brocade fine from Chin and threads of gold."]}, {"id": "A8.4.39", "lines": ["They ranged the golden trays with measured art,", "And scattered precious jewels through every part."]}, {"id": "A8.4.40", "lines": ["They mixed the wine with musk and amber rare,", "And cast bright gems like stardust through the air."]}, {"id": "A8.4.41", "lines": ["Here narcissus and violets were strewn,", "With roses blooming soft as breath of June;"]}, {"id": "A8.4.42", "lines": ["There lilies stood with jasmine intertwined,", "A garden shaped to captivate the mind."]}, {"id": "A8.4.43", "lines": ["Gold cups with turquoise shone in ordered rows,", "And clear rosewater breathed the scent of rose."]}, {"id": "A8.4.44", "lines": ["From the sun-faced maiden’s chamber perfume spun,", "And climbed the air until it reached the sun."]}, {"id": "A8.5.1", "lines": ["At dusk they barred the chamber, lost the key,", "Then sent a maid to say: “She waits, come see.”"]}, {"id": "A8.5.2", "lines": ["The hero, a restless lover newly stirred,", "Set forth at once, obedient to her word."]}, {"id": "A8.5.3", "lines": ["Meanwhile Rudabeh, rosy-cheeked and bright,", "A cypress bathed beneath the moon’s full light,"]}, {"id": "A8.5.4", "lines": ["Ascended to the roof with watchful gaze,", "She marked the son of Sahm through evening haze."]}, {"id": "A8.5.5", "lines": ["She loosed her coral lips and called his name:", "“O noble youth, welcome, to love’s own flame!"]}, {"id": "A8.5.6", "lines": ["May Heaven’s blessing rest upon your head,", "And happy fortune on your pathways spread."]}, {"id": "A8.5.7", "lines": ["May lofty heaven bow beneath your feet,", "And may your coming make this moment sweet."]}, {"id": "A8.5.8", "lines": ["May she who praised you live in joy and cheer;", "From head to foot, as told, you now appear."]}, {"id": "A8.5.9", "lines": ["To come on foot from out your lordly place", "Must weary well a prince of such high grace.”"]}, {"id": "A8.5.10", "lines": ["He heard her voice and lifted up his eyes,", "And saw a radiant form against the skies!"]}, {"id": "A8.5.11", "lines": ["A sun-cheeked maiden, radiant, refined,", "Whose beauty dazzled eye and stunned the mind;"]}, {"id": "A8.5.12", "lines": ["Her blush turned stone to ruby where she stood,", "Her glow made night seem day and darkness good."]}, {"id": "A8.5.13", "lines": ["He cried: “O moon-faced one, O heaven’s art,", "May grace eternal dwell within your heart."]}, {"id": "A8.5.14", "lines": ["How many nights beneath Simak on high", "Have I looked upward, longing with a sigh,"]}, {"id": "A8.5.15", "lines": ["Praying to Him who rules the stars above", "To grant one glance, one moment of your love."]}, {"id": "A8.5.16", "lines": ["Now you have made my longing soul rejoice", "With gentle words and music in your voice."]}, {"id": "A8.5.17", "lines": ["Yet why should distance still our meeting bar?", "Why stand you there while I remain afar?”"]}, {"id": "A8.5.18", "lines": ["She heard, and smiling, loosed without delay", "Her night-dark hair and cast its bonds away."]}, {"id": "A8.5.19", "lines": ["Coil upon coil, snake upon snake, it wound,", "Her musk-dark tresses streaming toward the ground."]}, {"id": "A8.5.20", "lines": ["She lowered them from battlement to wall,", "A fragrant kamand hanging through their fall."]}, {"id": "A8.5.21", "lines": ["Then from the wall she called to him again:", "“O lion-born, exalted among men!"]}, {"id": "A8.5.22", "lines": ["Now spread your lion-grip, your Kayan hand!", "Climb where my tresses fall to your command."]}, {"id": "A8.5.23", "lines": ["These locks are yours, my pledge, my offered sign,", "Take hold, ascend, and make your pathway mine.”"]}, {"id": "A8.5.24", "lines": ["Zal gazed in wonder at that shining snare,", "A face like dawn and night-enchanted hair."]}, {"id": "A8.5.25", "lines": ["He kissed the musk-dark strands with longing bliss;", "Rudabeh heard the sound of that warm kiss."]}, {"id": "A8.5.26", "lines": ["Then love-sick Zal raised up his voice and said,", "And spoke the plea that through his heart had spread:"]}, {"id": "A8.5.27", "lines": ["“This is not right, that I should rise above", "By seizing thus the very life I love.”"]}, {"id": "A8.5.28", "lines": ["He took his kamand from his servant’s hand,", "And cast it upward where the walls did stand."]}, {"id": "A8.5.29", "lines": ["The loop caught fast upon the rampart stone;", "From base to roof he climbed the wall alone."]}, {"id": "A8.5.30", "lines": ["He reached the roof; she came, her face aglow,", "And greeted him with honor, bowing low."]}, {"id": "A8.5.31", "lines": ["She took his hand; like those made glad by wine,", "They walked together toward the chamber’s shine."]}, {"id": "A8.5.32", "lines": ["Together then they passed, as in a dream,", "Into the chamber’s soft and jeweled gleam."]}, {"id": "A8.5.33", "lines": ["A chamber rich with gold and scented bloom,", "A paradise prepared, a lovers’ room."]}, {"id": "A8.5.34", "lines": ["Fair maidens stood like houris, soft and still,", "While Zal beheld her beauty and drank his fill."]}, {"id": "A8.5.35", "lines": ["Her hair, her face, her beauty and her grace,", "Her royal farr shone brightly through the place."]}, {"id": "A8.5.36", "lines": ["Her armlet, torque, and earrings, gem-inlaid,", "With gold, cast spring’s poor riches into shade."]}, {"id": "A8.5.37", "lines": ["Her cheeks were twin red tulips newly grown,", "Her curls in ringlets over her shoulders thrown."]}, {"id": "A8.5.38", "lines": ["He sat beside that moon in royal grace,", "Red-ruby crown and khanjar both in place."]}, {"id": "A8.5.39", "lines": ["She looked and looked again with bashful gaze,", "Engulfed in love’s consuming, rising blaze,"]}, {"id": "A8.5.40", "lines": ["At form and stature, strength and noble air,", "At eyes whose glance could conquer hearts laid bare."]}, {"id": "A8.5.41", "lines": ["The more she gazed, the more her heart took fire;", "His radiant face increased her fierce desire."]}, {"id": "A8.5.42", "lines": ["They kissed, embraced, and drank the flowing wine,", "While love drew heart to heart in close design."]}, {"id": "A8.5.43", "lines": ["Then spoke the prince: “O silver-bosomed fair,", "O swaying cypress, musk within your hair,"]}, {"id": "A8.5.44", "lines": ["Though Manuchehr should hear and answer no,", "He will not bless the path on which we go."]}, {"id": "A8.5.45", "lines": ["And Sahm will roar and rise against me still,", "But none of this can bend my heart or will."]}, {"id": "A8.5.46", "lines": ["I count as little now this life and breath;", "For you I take my shroud and welcome death."]}, {"id": "A8.5.47", "lines": ["Before the Just I bind myself and swear:", "I shall not break the covenant we share."]}, {"id": "A8.5.48", "lines": ["To God I pray that hearts opposed may bend,", "And all the wrath between our houses end."]}, {"id": "A8.5.49", "lines": ["And if He grants what faithful hearts implore,", "You shall be mine, my bride for evermore.”"]}, {"id": "A8.5.50", "lines": ["Rudabeh answered: “By the Just, the True,", "No man shall ever claim me, none but you."]}, {"id": "A8.5.51", "lines": ["Let God bear witness to this vow I make:", "No other lord shall my allegiance take,"]}, {"id": "A8.5.52", "lines": ["Except Zal-e-Zar, the Pahlevan of fame,", "With crown and treasure, farr and noble name.”"]}, {"id": "A8.5.53", "lines": ["Their love grew deeper with each passing hour;", "Reason stood far; desire held all its power."]}, {"id": "A8.5.54", "lines": ["So passed the night until the dawn grew near", "And morning’s tabiras rang in their ear."]}, {"id": "A8.5.55", "lines": ["Zal took his leave, yet held her close and long,", "As warp to woof are bound in fabric strong."]}, {"id": "A8.5.56", "lines": ["They wept and cried to heaven in dismay:", "“O lord of light, why will you not delay?"]}, {"id": "A8.5.57", "lines": ["Grant us one hour before your beams arise,", "Hold back the dawn a while beneath the skies.”"]}, {"id": "A8.5.58", "lines": ["Then from the height he let his kamand fall,", "And swiftly climbed down from the palace wall."]}, {"id": "A8.6.1", "lines": ["When morning’s sunlight crowned the mountain height,", "The warriors gathered round him, armed and bright."]}, {"id": "A8.6.2", "lines": ["They took their leave and went upon their way,", "And Zal remained behind at break of day."]}, {"id": "A8.6.3", "lines": ["Then Zal dispatched a caller through the land,", "To summon learned elders to his hand."]}, {"id": "A8.6.4", "lines": ["The wise Dastur came, with Mobadan acclaim,", "And lofty warriors, chiefs of honored name."]}, {"id": "A8.6.5", "lines": ["Men keen of mind, in counsel deep and sound,", "Well pleased to stand where wisdom might be found."]}, {"id": "A8.6.6", "lines": ["Zal opened speech, a smile upon his face,", "His heart rejoicing as he took his place."]}, {"id": "A8.6.7", "lines": ["He first gave praise to God, whose laws run deep,", "And woke the Mobad’s heart from inward sleep:"]}, {"id": "A8.6.8", "lines": ["“Let every heart with fear and hope attend", "The righteous Judge on whom all lives depend,"]}, {"id": "A8.6.9", "lines": ["Yazdan of sun and moon and circling sky,", "Who guides the soul and knows where secrets lie."]}, {"id": "A8.6.10", "lines": ["Praise Him as fully as our tongues know how,", "And let us humbly ever to Him bow."]}, {"id": "A8.6.11", "lines": ["By Him this flourishing world is kept in place;", "In both worlds justice issues from His grace."]}, {"id": "A8.6.12", "lines": ["He decks the spring with blossoms bright and new,", "Brings summer’s fruit and autumn’s golden hue."]}, {"id": "A8.6.13", "lines": ["From Him comes youth with fragrance, strength, and bloom,", "From Him comes age with sorrow’s shadowed gloom."]}, {"id": "A8.6.14", "lines": ["No creature dares transgress the law He planned;", "Without His leave no ant may cross the sand."]}, {"id": "A8.6.15", "lines": ["He made increase through pairs by wise decree;", "From one alone no growth can come to be."]}, {"id": "A8.6.16", "lines": ["There is no partner to His sovereign will,", "Yet all creation moves in union still."]}, {"id": "A8.6.17", "lines": ["Without this bond, no life could ripen true,", "Nor could the world its hidden powers renew."]}, {"id": "A8.6.18", "lines": ["By humankind the world is richly graced;", "Through man the worth of every good is traced."]}, {"id": "A8.6.19", "lines": ["No youthful man stands rightly in God’s way", "If from a fitting mate he turns away."]}, {"id": "A8.6.20", "lines": ["Still less should one from an illustrious line", "Remain without a child to bear its sign."]}, {"id": "A8.6.21", "lines": ["What sight is finer in the eyes of men", "Than sons to bless their fading years again?"]}, {"id": "A8.6.22", "lines": ["At life’s last turn, a second dawn they gain,", "In sons through whom their memory shall remain:"]}, {"id": "A8.6.23", "lines": ["‘This is the son of Zal, of Sahm the great’;", "Thus line and crown endure beyond their fate."]}, {"id": "A8.6.24", "lines": ["This tale is now the garden that is mine;", "Its rose and narcissus before me shine."]}, {"id": "A8.6.25", "lines": ["My heart has fled from me, my reason too;", "I stand confessed and seek a path from you."]}, {"id": "A8.6.26", "lines": ["I kept this grief in silence till today;", "Now tell me what can cure it, show the way."]}, {"id": "A8.6.27", "lines": ["The house of Mehrab has ensnared my heart;", "His land seems heaven; I cannot depart."]}, {"id": "A8.6.28", "lines": ["His daughter, born of Sindokht, holds my soul;", "Her image governs me beyond control."]}, {"id": "A8.6.29", "lines": ["Now tell me plainly: what do you advise?", "Will Sahm approve, or anger fill his eyes?"]}, {"id": "A8.6.30", "lines": ["If Shah Manuchehr learns what I intend,", "Will he condemn the path that I defend?"]}, {"id": "A8.6.31", "lines": ["For all men wed according to the law,", "By faith and custom none should find a flaw."]}, {"id": "A8.6.32", "lines": ["No wise man bars what honor would allow,", "Nor calls forbidden what the laws avow."]}, {"id": "A8.6.33", "lines": ["Speak then, you seers; declare what must be done;", "Let wisdom guide me where my path should run.”"]}, {"id": "A8.6.34", "lines": ["They heard. And silence held them in its chain,", "For Zahhak’s blood in Mehrab did remain,"]}, {"id": "A8.6.35", "lines": ["And Manuchehr detested that dark line;", "No man dared speak where peril gave a sign."]}, {"id": "A8.6.36", "lines": ["No man had heard sweet nectar mixed with bane,", "Or sugar joined with poison in one grain."]}, {"id": "A8.6.37", "lines": ["With no reply, Zal’s blood began to boil;", "He shaped a fresh design to end the toil:"]}, {"id": "A8.6.38", "lines": ["“I know you frown upon the path I tread,", "And censure follows; this I know, and dread."]}, {"id": "A8.6.39", "lines": ["Yet he who chooses must endure the blame;", "No man escapes the judgment or the name."]}, {"id": "A8.6.40", "lines": ["But if you show a path both clear and wise,", "And help me from this tangle to the prize,"]}, {"id": "A8.6.41", "lines": ["Then never subjects serving any king", "Received such gifts as I to you shall bring."]}, {"id": "A8.6.42", "lines": ["My justice, kindness, bounty all shall flow,", "And neither fear nor harm shall lay you low.”"]}, {"id": "A8.6.43", "lines": ["The trusty Mobadan gathered to reply,", "And sought the words that might his heart satisfy:"]}, {"id": "A8.6.44", "lines": ["“We are your servants, yours to guide and lead,", "We stand in wonder, ready at your need."]}, {"id": "A8.6.45", "lines": ["What good or harm may follow none can say;", "No mortal sees what lies beyond today."]}, {"id": "A8.6.46", "lines": ["Though Mehrab stands beneath your rank and place,", "He is a mighty warrior, known for grace,"]}, {"id": "A8.6.47", "lines": ["Though sprung from Zahhak’s dragon-rooted line,", "He rules the Tazis with a kingly sign."]}, {"id": "A8.6.48", "lines": ["Write now to Sahm; let him weigh your request,", "And set before him all that suits it best."]}, {"id": "A8.6.49", "lines": ["Your wisdom far exceeds what we have known;", "Your judgment reaches farther than our own."]}, {"id": "A8.6.50", "lines": ["Then Sahm may write the Shah and make it plain,", "And seek his judgment on what you would gain."]}, {"id": "A8.6.51", "lines": ["The king will trust in Sahm’s far-seeing view;", "Through him the path may open clear and true."]}, {"id": "A8.6.52", "lines": ["Thus may the barrier fall, the danger cease,", "And what seems peril now be turned to peace.”"]}, {"id": "A8.7.1", "lines": ["The young prince summoned then a ready scribe,", "Poured out his heart, and let his thoughts describe"]}, {"id": "A8.7.2", "lines": ["A letter filled with counsel, care, and plea;", "He praised the Maker first in dignity:"]}, {"id": "A8.7.3", "lines": ["“The Source of strength and joy, Yazdan of all,", "Of sun and star, of rise and of downfall."]}, {"id": "A8.7.4", "lines": ["We are but servants, bound beneath His hand;", "Of being and non-being He has command."]}, {"id": "A8.7.5", "lines": ["May blessings rest on Sahm, Nariman’s son;", "The lord of gorz, whose victories are won"]}, {"id": "A8.7.6", "lines": ["On fields where warhorses in fury race,", "Whose steel leaves vultures feasting in its trace,"]}, {"id": "A8.7.7", "lines": ["Who storms like thunder through the battle’s cry,", "And makes the dust and heavens testify;"]}, {"id": "A8.7.8", "lines": ["Who sets the crowns on kings and claims the field,", "Before whose arm the mightiest armies yield."]}, {"id": "A8.7.9", "lines": ["No man has lived, nor shall another be,", "To match his strength, his fame, his mastery."]}, {"id": "A8.7.10", "lines": ["I am his servant, bound in love and care;", "My soul and life are his, my oath to bear."]}, {"id": "A8.7.11", "lines": ["He saw my birth; yet fortune turned away,", "And cast me far from human paths that day."]}, {"id": "A8.7.12", "lines": ["While he wore silks and furs in royal state,", "I lay abandoned to a stranger’s fate."]}, {"id": "A8.7.13", "lines": ["The Simorgh bore me to an Indian height,", "Where I was fed apart from human sight."]}, {"id": "A8.7.14", "lines": ["She brought me prey and numbered me among", "Her mountain chicks, when I was weak and young."]}, {"id": "A8.7.15", "lines": ["My skin was scorched by wind, my eyes by sand;", "I grew beyond the reach of mortal hand."]}, {"id": "A8.7.16", "lines": ["They called me still the son of Sahm, though he", "Sat crowned upon his throne; a nest held me."]}, {"id": "A8.7.17", "lines": ["Such was God’s will; no man escapes His plan,", "Not even he who deems himself a man."]}, {"id": "A8.7.18", "lines": ["Though one may bite a spear between his teeth,", "Or roar and rend a lion’s hide beneath,"]}, {"id": "A8.7.19", "lines": ["Though teeth be anvils, iron every limb,", "Still he is bound: the Maker fashioned him."]}, {"id": "A8.7.20", "lines": ["Now something has befallen me that I", "Cannot make known to every passing eye."]}, {"id": "A8.7.21", "lines": ["A son may speak what others must not hear;", "A father, fierce male dragon, lends his ear."]}, {"id": "A8.7.22", "lines": ["My grief is love for Mehrab’s daughter fair;", "Her memory pursues me everywhere."]}, {"id": "A8.7.23", "lines": ["I burn within as though consumed by fire;", "The stars keep vigil through my fierce desire."]}, {"id": "A8.7.24", "lines": ["My heart is storm-tossed, and my senses numb;", "My people grieve to see what I become."]}, {"id": "A8.7.25", "lines": ["Yet though distressed, I breathe not without leave;", "Command me, and I act; forbid, I grieve."]}, {"id": "A8.7.26", "lines": ["What does the chief of champions decree?", "Release my mind from doubt and misery."]}, {"id": "A8.7.27", "lines": ["The Mobad’s counsel brought the jewel to light:", "‘Hide it no more, but act in honor’s sight.’"]}, {"id": "A8.7.28", "lines": ["Perhaps my father, in his wisdom, may", "Approve the course I long to take this way,"]}, {"id": "A8.7.29", "lines": ["To take as lawful bride, with honor’s claim,", "The daughter born and raised in Mehrab’s name."]}, {"id": "A8.7.30", "lines": ["He will recall, when God restored me then", "From Mount Alborz before assembled men,"]}, {"id": "A8.7.31", "lines": ["He pledged his word; no wish of mine denied;", "That vow still holds, both sealed and ratified."]}, {"id": "A8.7.32", "lines": ["And this alone is what my heart desires:", "To bind my life where now my soul aspires.”"]}, {"id": "A8.7.33", "lines": ["A rider left from Kabul like a gale,", "With orders strict that none should make him fail:"]}, {"id": "A8.7.34", "lines": ["“Take a second horse with you,” said Zal;", "“If one gives out, remount and do not stall."]}, {"id": "A8.7.35", "lines": ["Mount fresh and press ahead at utmost pace;", "Do not draw rein until you reach Sahm’s place.”"]}, {"id": "A8.7.36", "lines": ["The messenger sped forth on iron steed,", "As though the wind itself had matched his speed."]}, {"id": "A8.7.37", "lines": ["When near the lands where Gorgasaran stayed,", "He saw Sahm hunting through the mountain shade."]}, {"id": "A8.7.38", "lines": ["The hero spied him from the ridge, and turned", "To those about him, for the news he yearned:"]}, {"id": "A8.7.39", "lines": ["“A rider comes from Kabul, swift and sure,", "His steed a mark no doubt can now obscure."]}, {"id": "A8.7.40", "lines": ["This must be news from Zal, let him draw near;", "We soon shall learn what tidings he brings here."]}, {"id": "A8.7.41", "lines": ["Of Dastan, Iran, and Shah we shall know;", "What news from each has urged this rider so.”"]}, {"id": "A8.7.42", "lines": ["The envoy came, dismounted, kissed the ground,", "And thanked his God before the chief renowned."]}, {"id": "A8.7.43", "lines": ["Sahm welcomed him and took the letter straight,", "Then had him speak and tell the message’s weight."]}, {"id": "A8.7.44", "lines": ["The chief unsealed it as he left the height,", "And read its words, his face grew pale with fright."]}, {"id": "A8.7.45", "lines": ["He stood astonished, disapproving still;", "He had imagined Zal of sterner will."]}, {"id": "A8.7.46", "lines": ["Yet in his heart another thought arose:", "“Raised by a fierce bird, strange his longing grows.”"]}, {"id": "A8.7.47", "lines": ["He reached his camp and pondered long alone,", "The burden pressing heavy as a stone."]}, {"id": "A8.7.48", "lines": ["“If I forbid, and say: ‘This path is wrong,", "Turn back, and do not follow passion long,’"]}, {"id": "A8.7.49", "lines": ["Then God and man alike will mark me blamed,", "For I once pledged my word, and stand ashamed."]}, {"id": "A8.7.50", "lines": ["But if I say: ‘Proceed; your wish is fair,’", "What child may spring from such unequal pair?"]}, {"id": "A8.7.51", "lines": ["From bird-reared son and a Div-born young bride,", "What offspring comes when such two lines collide?”"]}, {"id": "A8.7.52", "lines": ["He lay down then in grief but found no rest;", "The harder grows a servant’s weary test,"]}, {"id": "A8.7.53", "lines": ["The more his heart is burdened with distress,", "The more, when God so wills, He grants redress."]}, {"id": "A8.7.54", "lines": ["What seems most closed and hardest to our sight,", "The Maker opens when He wills it right."]}, {"id": "A8.8.1", "lines": ["When Sahm awoke, he called his sages round,", "And asked what fate the stars above had bound."]}, {"id": "A8.8.2", "lines": ["“How shall this end? These two opposing sides", "Stand far apart, where deep division lies."]}, {"id": "A8.8.3", "lines": ["Like fire and water locked in ceaseless strife,", "Their natures clash and cannot share one life."]}, {"id": "A8.8.4", "lines": ["Such strife as on the final reckoning’s day", "Set Zahhak and Fereydoon at deadly bay."]}, {"id": "A8.8.5", "lines": ["Search now the heavens, read what signs appear,", "And make the road that I must travel clear.”"]}, {"id": "A8.8.6", "lines": ["They spent the day in study of the skies,", "Tracing the courses where the omen lies."]}, {"id": "A8.8.7", "lines": ["At last they came to Sahm with gladdened face,", "Rejoicing in the fortune they could trace."]}, {"id": "A8.8.8", "lines": ["One wise astrologer stepped forth and said:", "“O lord whose golden belt strikes awe and dread,"]}, {"id": "A8.8.9", "lines": ["We bring you news to ease the anxious breast:", "This union stands not cursed but doubly blessed."]}, {"id": "A8.8.10", "lines": ["From Zal and Mehrab’s daughter shall arise", "A raging elephant before men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "A8.8.11", "lines": ["He will subdue all kingdoms in his sight,", "And raise the royal throne to lofty heights."]}, {"id": "A8.8.12", "lines": ["He will strike down the roots of evil men", "And leave no refuge for their brood again."]}, {"id": "A8.8.13", "lines": ["His heavy gorz shall cleanse the earth of stain;", "No Sagzar nor Mazandaran shall remain."]}, {"id": "A8.8.14", "lines": ["Through him Turan shall suffer endless woe,", "Through him Iran shall rise in strength and glow."]}, {"id": "A8.8.15", "lines": ["Through him the weary heart shall find its peace,", "And wars that rage beneath his hand shall cease."]}, {"id": "A8.8.16", "lines": ["The people shall take hope when he appears,", "And joy shall follow after bitter years."]}, {"id": "A8.8.17", "lines": ["His battle steed shall charge across the field,", "And grind the war-leopard till it must yield."]}, {"id": "A8.8.18", "lines": ["Blessed the Shah whose age shall share his fame;", "Through kingship Time itself shall bear his name."]}, {"id": "A8.8.19", "lines": ["Rum, Hind, and all Iran shall know his worth;", "His name on signet-rings shall circle earth.”"]}, {"id": "A8.8.20", "lines": ["Sahm heard the astrologer; his heart grew light,", "And thanked him, freed from doubt and inward fright."]}, {"id": "A8.8.21", "lines": ["He gave them silver, gold beyond all count,", "As fear gave way and hope began to mount."]}, {"id": "A8.8.22", "lines": ["He called the messenger and, choosing well,", "Restrained by prudence, gave him words to tell."]}, {"id": "A8.8.23", "lines": ["“Go speak to Zal with gentle, tempered tone:", "His wish finds little favor on its own."]}, {"id": "A8.8.24", "lines": ["Yet I have given word, and must remain", "Bound to that pledge, nor break it for my gain."]}, {"id": "A8.8.25", "lines": ["Tomorrow I will leave this field and ride", "To Iran’s court, where truth shall be my guide."]}, {"id": "A8.8.26", "lines": ["There I shall learn what judgment Shah may give,", "And whether God will let this longing live.”"]}, {"id": "A8.8.27", "lines": ["He gave the envoy gifts and told him, “Go:", "Delay no more, ride hard and do not slow.”"]}, {"id": "A8.8.28", "lines": ["He sent him off and readied for the way;", "His army cheered to march without delay."]}, {"id": "A8.8.29", "lines": ["A thousand Gorgasaran they bound that day,", "And drove them, wretched, on their feet away."]}, {"id": "A8.8.30", "lines": ["When two parts of the darkened night had passed,", "The riders’ cries rose where the ranks were massed."]}, {"id": "A8.8.31", "lines": ["The koust and karnay thundered loud and clear,", "Their voices rising from the royal gear."]}, {"id": "A8.8.32", "lines": ["Then Sahm set out toward Iran’s domain,", "And led his army onward from the plain."]}, {"id": "A8.8.33", "lines": ["The messenger returned with joyful speed,", "Bearing the answer that fulfilled the need."]}, {"id": "A8.8.34", "lines": ["He came to Zal and told what had occurred;", "The prince found comfort in the words he heard."]}, {"id": "A8.8.35", "lines": ["He raised his praise to God with grateful voice,", "And blessed the turn that made his heart rejoice."]}, {"id": "A8.8.36", "lines": ["He gave the poor both silver and bright gold,", "And gifts of kindness no account could hold."]}, {"id": "A8.9.1", "lines": ["A honey-tongued woman served as go-between,", "And carried lovers’ words both heard and seen."]}, {"id": "A8.9.2", "lines": ["Zal summoned her and spoke of Sahm’s reply,", "Then said: “Go now to Rudabeh, and try;"]}, {"id": "A8.9.3", "lines": ["‘Fair lady, when the road seems closed to you,", "Another path may open into view."]}, {"id": "A8.9.4", "lines": ["The messenger has come with hopeful news;’", "Though Sahm delayed, he did not now refuse.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.5", "lines": ["They spoke at length; each sage was fully heard,", "And Sahm agreed to honor his pledged word."]}, {"id": "A8.9.6", "lines": ["He gave his father’s letter to her care;", "She ran with joy like wind through morning air."]}, {"id": "A8.9.7", "lines": ["Rudabeh, hearing, scattered gold like rain,", "And seated her with honor in her train."]}, {"id": "A8.9.8", "lines": ["She gave the woman robes for news she bore,", "A fitting gift from Rudabeh’s royal store."]}, {"id": "A8.9.9", "lines": ["Then brought a headband wrought with subtle art,", "Its warp and weft concealed in every part."]}, {"id": "A8.9.10", "lines": ["With gold and rubies woven into light,", "The gems so rich they hid the metal’s sight."]}, {"id": "A8.9.11", "lines": ["A rich and noble ring she gave to bear,", "Like Jupiter it shone in heaven’s air."]}, {"id": "A8.9.12", "lines": ["She sent the gifts to Zal without delay,", "With greetings and a message on their way."]}, {"id": "A8.9.13", "lines": ["But Sindokht saw the woman pass within,", "And spoke at once, her voice both sharp and thin:"]}, {"id": "A8.9.14", "lines": ["“From where do you come? Speak and hide no part.", "You cross these halls too often for my heart."]}, {"id": "A8.9.15", "lines": ["Time after time before my eyes you go,", "Then enter her chamber, yet no greeting show."]}, {"id": "A8.9.16", "lines": ["My heart suspects you; speak without delay:", "Are you the bowstring, or the bow? Now say.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.17", "lines": ["Her face grew pale with fear at Sindokht’s sound,", "She bent before her and she kissed the ground."]}, {"id": "A8.9.18", "lines": ["“I earn my living, moving place to place,", "I sell fine goods among your noble race."]}, {"id": "A8.9.19", "lines": ["Rudabeh wished for jewels and robes of state;", "I brought her wares befitting one so great.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.20", "lines": ["Sindokht replied: “Then show me what you sold,", "And ease my doubt; bring forth the gems and gold.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.21", "lines": ["“They rest with her,” the trembling woman said,", "“I go to fetch more pieces, as was pled.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.22", "lines": ["“Then show the payment,” Sindokht sharply cried,", "“Let me see coin, and prove you have not lied.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.23", "lines": ["“She pays tomorrow,” came the quick reply,", "“Please wait; I will bring silver; do not pry.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.24", "lines": ["Sindokht saw through the falsehood at a glance,", "Her anger surged; the lie had lost its chance."]}, {"id": "A8.9.25", "lines": ["She searched her sleeves with force from side to side,", "To learn what crooked secret she might hide."]}, {"id": "A8.9.26", "lines": ["And there she found the costly clothes concealed,", "With Rudabeh’s own handiwork revealed."]}, {"id": "A8.9.27", "lines": ["Her anger flared; she seized her by the hair,", "And threw her face-down on the earth laid bare."]}, {"id": "A8.9.28", "lines": ["In fury she dragged the woman on the ground,", "With scorn for every secret she had found."]}, {"id": "A8.9.29", "lines": ["Then to her chamber, burning, she withdrew,", "Her heart in turmoil, mind in sorrow too."]}, {"id": "A8.9.30", "lines": ["She shut herself within and sat alone,", "Distraught, with reason from its moorings thrown."]}, {"id": "A8.9.31", "lines": ["She sent for Rudabeh; the summons made,", "She struck her face in anguish, sore dismayed."]}, {"id": "A8.9.32", "lines": ["Her two narcissi washed each roseate cheek,", "With tears that shone before she rose to speak:"]}, {"id": "A8.9.33", "lines": ["“O child, bright moon, born for the royal height,", "Why choose the pit and cast the throne from sight?"]}, {"id": "A8.9.34", "lines": ["What lesson have I failed to teach or show?", "What courtly rule have I not made you know?"]}, {"id": "A8.9.35", "lines": ["Why have you wronged me thus? Speak now and say", "Who sent this woman, what has passed this way."]}, {"id": "A8.9.36", "lines": ["For whom are these rich gifts, the ring, the dress?", "What hidden bond drives you to such excess?"]}, {"id": "A8.9.37", "lines": ["The Tazi crown has passed into our hand,", "And brought us good and ill throughout the land."]}, {"id": "A8.9.38", "lines": ["Will you cast your name to winds and let it fly,", "And watch its hard-won honor scatter by?"]}, {"id": "A8.9.39", "lines": ["May I not live to see so black a stain!", "Better no daughter than such lasting pain.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.40", "lines": ["Rudabeh dropped her gaze toward the ground,", "And stood in shame, and could not make a sound."]}, {"id": "A8.9.41", "lines": ["Love’s water from her lowered eyes was shed,", "Her two narcissi seemed adorned with red."]}, {"id": "A8.9.42", "lines": ["At last she spoke, her voice both soft and clear:", "“O mother wise, whose counsel I revere,"]}, {"id": "A8.9.43", "lines": ["Love crushes down my soul; I cannot rest,", "Its hold has driven peace out of my breast."]}, {"id": "A8.9.44", "lines": ["Had you, my mother, never given me birth,", "No good or evil from me touched the earth."]}, {"id": "A8.9.45", "lines": ["The chief of Zabul now resides nearby,", "And love has set my spirit all awry."]}, {"id": "A8.9.46", "lines": ["The world has narrowed till I cannot hide;", "I weep in open view and deep inside."]}, {"id": "A8.9.47", "lines": ["One hair of his is worth the world entire;", "No treasure equals that which I desire."]}, {"id": "A8.9.48", "lines": ["He came; we saw each other, nothing more;", "No flame between us rose or burned us sore."]}, {"id": "A8.9.49", "lines": ["We pledged ourselves; joined hands confirmed the vow,", "No fear or passing time could break it now."]}, {"id": "A8.9.50", "lines": ["A messenger was sent to Sahm away,", "And bore his answer back to Zal that day."]}, {"id": "A8.9.51", "lines": ["Then for a time he writhed beneath his grief;", "Then heard the sages, and their words brought relief."]}, {"id": "A8.9.52", "lines": ["He gave the messenger rich gifts to bear;", "She brought his full reply into my care."]}, {"id": "A8.9.53", "lines": ["Through this same woman, whose hair you tore,", "Whom you struck down and dragged across the floor,"]}, {"id": "A8.9.54", "lines": ["She brought the letter back again to me;", "These garments were my answer, as you see.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.55", "lines": ["Sindokht stood frozen, wonder-struck and gray,", "Half hope, half dread at war in her dismay."]}, {"id": "A8.9.56", "lines": ["Yet Zal himself seemed worthy in her eyes;", "Her fear lay in the anger that would rise."]}, {"id": "A8.9.57", "lines": ["At last she said: “This is no trivial thing.", "Zal is the mightiest warrior of the king;"]}, {"id": "A8.9.58", "lines": ["A peerless chief, with every virtue known,", "Save one dark stain: the blood that is our own."]}, {"id": "A8.9.59", "lines": ["The Shah will hear, and anger will arise,", "And Kabul’s dust will darken all the skies."]}, {"id": "A8.9.60", "lines": ["He will not suffer those of Zahhak’s seed", "To mount the saddle or to rule or lead.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.61", "lines": ["She released the woman, soothed her after all,", "And comforted the one she caused to fall."]}, {"id": "A8.9.62", "lines": ["She acted as if she had never known", "The woman standing frightened and alone."]}, {"id": "A8.9.63", "lines": ["Then Sindokht spoke, her voice no longer hard:", "“You are discerning; keep yourself on guard."]}, {"id": "A8.9.64", "lines": ["Be wise, keep silent; let no word be said,", "Nor let this secret pass beyond your head."]}, {"id": "A8.9.65", "lines": ["Let not your lips disclose what you have heard;", "Bury the matter deep, without a word.”"]}, {"id": "A8.9.66", "lines": ["She saw her daughter would not be denied,", "Nor heed advice, nor set her will aside."]}, {"id": "A8.9.67", "lines": ["Then Sindokht wept and lay in bitter pain,", "As though her skin were splitting from the strain."]}, {"id": "A8.10.1", "lines": ["Mehrab returned, well pleased by Zal’s regard,", "And found Sindokht prostrate, her countenance marred."]}, {"id": "A8.10.2", "lines": ["Her color drained, her calm was worn and frayed;", "He asked, “What grief is this? Why so dismayed?"]}, {"id": "A8.10.3", "lines": ["Why have the roses of your face grown pale?", "Speak plainly now and let me hear your tale.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.4", "lines": ["She said, “I have been thinking for a while", "On all we hold; this wealth, this power, this style:"]}, {"id": "A8.10.5", "lines": ["These Tazi steeds, this palace proud and wide,", "The treasures heaped and guarded at our side,"]}, {"id": "A8.10.6", "lines": ["These gardens where our joys and friends remain,", "Our fame and wisdom, all our gathered gain."]}, {"id": "A8.10.7", "lines": ["Our servants, crown, and our high royal seat,", "The splendor gathered richly at our feet,"]}, {"id": "A8.10.8", "lines": ["All these must fade; none here are meant to stay,", "In time our pride and splendor pass away."]}, {"id": "A8.10.9", "lines": ["What we have built must fall to hostile claim,", "Our labor turns to wind and leaves no name."]}, {"id": "A8.10.10", "lines": ["At last a narrow coffin is our share;", "What pride we gathered vanishes to air."]}, {"id": "A8.10.11", "lines": ["We rear a tree whose theriac turns to bane;", "What should have healed us brings us mortal pain."]}, {"id": "A8.10.12", "lines": ["We plant and water it through toil and care,", "Then crown its boughs with treasure rich and rare."]}, {"id": "A8.10.13", "lines": ["It spreads its shade and lifts its head to sun,", "Until the labor of our years is done."]}, {"id": "A8.10.14", "lines": ["Then down its head is buried in the ground;", "What rest is left when such an end is found?"]}, {"id": "A8.10.15", "lines": ["With this before me, clear in mind and view,", "I find no place where rest can still be true.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.16", "lines": ["Mehrab replied, “This truth is old and known:", "The passing world was never ours alone."]}, {"id": "A8.10.17", "lines": ["One rises high while others fall away;", "One enters life, another ends his day."]}, {"id": "A8.10.18", "lines": ["No soul escapes the reach of heaven’s will;", "Grief changes nothing; time advances still."]}, {"id": "A8.10.19", "lines": ["No power of ours can change what fate has signed;", "The Just One governs all of humankind.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.20", "lines": ["She answered, “Wise men look beyond the word;", "What I have said should not be lightly heard."]}, {"id": "A8.10.21", "lines": ["Can I conceal from you this inward weight,", "A truth that bears upon our future state?"]}, {"id": "A8.10.22", "lines": ["A fortunate Mobad once told his child", "This parable in words both grave and mild.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.23", "lines": ["She bowed her cypress form, her eyes with tears;", "The narcissus washed the rose beneath her fears."]}, {"id": "A8.10.24", "lines": ["“Know this,” she said, “the turning heavens go", "Not always where our wishes bid them flow."]}, {"id": "A8.10.25", "lines": ["The son of Sahm has set his cunning snare,", "And caught Rudabeh’s bright heart unaware."]}, {"id": "A8.10.26", "lines": ["Now we must act and find a path to mend;", "I counseled her but could not make it end."]}, {"id": "A8.10.27", "lines": ["Her spirit trembles, sorrow fills her face;", "I see no strength that turns her from this place.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.28", "lines": ["Then Mehrab started up in wrath, and pressed", "His hand upon the sword-hilt near his breast."]}, {"id": "A8.10.29", "lines": ["His face turned lapis-blue, his body shook;", "Cold breath escaped his lips; rage filled his look."]}, {"id": "A8.10.30", "lines": ["“Her blood shall flow for this!” he cried aloud;", "His voice rang harsh, his anger fierce and proud."]}, {"id": "A8.10.31", "lines": ["Sindokht sprang up and clasped his waist, afraid:", "“Wait now and hear me; let your hand be stayed."]}, {"id": "A8.10.32", "lines": ["Grant me one word before your wrath runs free;", "Then judge as wisdom shapes your just decree.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.33", "lines": ["He cast her off and roared in furious heat,", "Like a drunken elephant none dared meet:"]}, {"id": "A8.10.34", "lines": ["“I should have struck her down when she was born;", "I spared her then! Now I am left in scorn."]}, {"id": "A8.10.35", "lines": ["I turned from custom, let her life remain;", "Now she repays me with this bitter stain."]}, {"id": "A8.10.36", "lines": ["A son who strays beyond his father’s way", "Is base, no matter what the world may say."]}, {"id": "A8.10.37", "lines": ["The leopard’s cub must show his father’s sign,", "Though lesser strength within the son may shine."]}, {"id": "A8.10.38", "lines": ["The father’s mark should live within the son;", "By lineage is ancestral honor won."]}, {"id": "A8.10.39", "lines": ["I fear disgrace no less than I fear death;", "Why bar me from the fight with pleading breath?"]}, {"id": "A8.10.40", "lines": ["If Sahm and Shah should hear of what is done,", "Kabul’s dark smoke will rise up to the sun."]}, {"id": "A8.10.41", "lines": ["The land will fail; its harvests cease to grow;", "Our strength will break beneath a crushing blow.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.42", "lines": ["She said, “My lord, speak not in reckless flame;", "Sahm knows of this; there is no cause for shame."]}, {"id": "A8.10.43", "lines": ["He turned from Gorgasaran for this alone;", "The matter now is widely heard and known.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.44", "lines": ["Mehrab replied, “Do not mislead me so,", "Can wind obey the dust that lies below?"]}, {"id": "A8.10.45", "lines": ["If she were safe from harm, I would not grieve;", "No finer son-in-law could I conceive."]}, {"id": "A8.10.46", "lines": ["From Ahvaz on to Kandahar’s wide span,", "Who would not seek alliance with that man?”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.47", "lines": ["She said, “My prince, I would not speak untrue;", "Your grief is mine, I share its weight with you."]}, {"id": "A8.10.48", "lines": ["At first, I feared as you now fear within;", "That is why sorrow marked my face and skin."]}, {"id": "A8.10.49", "lines": ["But if this bond is fated to be made,", "Let us not shrink or let our hearts be swayed."]}, {"id": "A8.10.50", "lines": ["Fereydoon’s crown was joined to Yemen’s line;", "Dastan now seeks the same by fate’s design."]}, {"id": "A8.10.51", "lines": ["When fire and water, wind and earth combine,", "The darkened world itself begins to shine.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.52", "lines": ["She brought Sahm’s answer forth for him to hear:", "“Take heart; his words give us good cause for cheer."]}, {"id": "A8.10.53", "lines": ["When strangers join with you in ties of worth,", "Your foes grow pale and lose their strength on earth.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.54", "lines": ["Though anger still within his bosom lay,", "Mehrab gave ear but cast no wrath away."]}, {"id": "A8.10.55", "lines": ["“Bring Rudabeh before me,” he replied;", "“This matter now must no longer be denied.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.56", "lines": ["Sindokht, in fear that rage might take its toll,", "Replied, “First promise me to keep control."]}, {"id": "A8.10.57", "lines": ["First swear her body whole returns to me;", "No wound shall touch her, and she shall go free."]}, {"id": "A8.10.58", "lines": ["And Kabul’s garden, like high Paradise,", "Shall not be lost at any grievous price.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.59", "lines": ["He gave his word, but warned, “The Shah may rise", "With wrath against us under turning skies.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.60", "lines": ["She bowed in thanks, her heart both light and strained,", "Then hastened where her daughter still remained."]}, {"id": "A8.10.61", "lines": ["With smile that broke like dawn through fading night,", "She said, “Your fate has turned at last to light."]}, {"id": "A8.10.62", "lines": ["The war-leopard has spared the Gur-e-Khar’s hide;", "Put on your gems and go to him,” she cried."]}, {"id": "A8.10.63", "lines": ["Rudabeh said, “What are mere gems or gold,", "Beside the love and fate my heart does hold?"]}, {"id": "A8.10.64", "lines": ["My soul is bound to Sahm’s illustrious son;", "Why hide what fate and truth have plainly done?”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.65", "lines": ["She went before her father, bright and fair,", "Adorned in gold with jewels in her hair."]}, {"id": "A8.10.66", "lines": ["Like rising sun she stood before his eyes;", "He gazed in silence, struck with mute surprise."]}, {"id": "A8.10.67", "lines": ["She seemed a paradise in human guise,", "A springtime sun beneath the open skies."]}, {"id": "A8.10.68", "lines": ["He called upon the World-Creator’s name,", "Astonished by the radiance that came."]}, {"id": "A8.10.69", "lines": ["He said, “O foolish child, can you not know", "What doom the heavens on such folly throw?"]}, {"id": "A8.10.70", "lines": ["How could a pari join Ahriman’s breed?", "May crown and ring be lost for such a deed."]}, {"id": "A8.10.71", "lines": ["If Qahtan’s snake-charmer took the Magus way,", "An arrow would be fit reward that day.”"]}, {"id": "A8.10.72", "lines": ["At this her heart grew heavy, full of dread;", "The living color from her cheeks had fled."]}, {"id": "A8.10.73", "lines": ["She lowered black lashes over eyes of light,", "And held her breath, nor answered in his sight."]}, {"id": "A8.10.74", "lines": ["He roared in fury like a leopard pressed,", "His wrath still beating hard within his breast."]}, {"id": "A8.10.75", "lines": ["She turned back to her chamber, heart in pain;", "Her altered cheeks still bore their sorrow’s stain."]}, {"id": "A8.10.76", "lines": ["Then daughter and her father sought God’s light,", "And placed their troubled hearts within His sight."]}, {"id": "A8.11.1", "lines": ["News reached the Shah: new ties had now begun,", "Binding proud Mehrab’s house to Sahm’s own son."]}, {"id": "A8.11.2", "lines": ["And more, that Zal had bound his heart by vow", "To Mehrab’s daughter of the moonlit brow."]}, {"id": "A8.11.3", "lines": ["Before the throne the matter was laid bare,", "The Mobadan weighed all with solemn care."]}, {"id": "A8.11.4", "lines": ["The Shah then said, “Grim days may rise from this;", "I see no easy road to lasting bliss."]}, {"id": "A8.11.5", "lines": ["From lion’s claw and leopard’s savage hand,", "By counsel and by war I freed the land."]}, {"id": "A8.11.6", "lines": ["Did Fereydoon cleanse earth of Zahhak’s reign", "That such a root should rise and spread its bane?"]}, {"id": "A8.11.7", "lines": ["Shall from that seed, long withered and cast down,", "A branch arise to threaten throne and crown?"]}, {"id": "A8.11.8", "lines": ["This love, if left to grow, may yet restore", "The very blood we strove to end before."]}, {"id": "A8.11.9", "lines": ["If from this union there should rise an heir,", "A sharpened sword from sheath would meet the air."]}, {"id": "A8.11.10", "lines": ["He stands between two worlds and bears two claims:", "Half bound to us, half to the Dragon’s names."]}, {"id": "A8.11.11", "lines": ["How shall two natures so opposed endure?", "Can poison ever mingle with its cure?"]}, {"id": "A8.11.12", "lines": ["If toward his mother’s side he bends his will,", "Corrupting words may then his judgment fill;"]}, {"id": "A8.11.13", "lines": ["He may fill Iran’s cities full of woe,", "And crown and treasure to his keeping go."]}, {"id": "A8.11.14", "lines": ["Now give me counsel; tell me what you know:", "What course will guard the realm from overthrow?”"]}, {"id": "A8.11.15", "lines": ["The Mobadan bowed, offered him their praise,", "Extolling wisdom in his words and ways:"]}, {"id": "A8.11.16", "lines": ["“Great Shah, whose insight pierces every veil,", "Whose judgment stands where weaker counsels fail."]}, {"id": "A8.11.17", "lines": ["Let wisdom guide you with its sovereign art;", "For wisdom breaks the fiercest dragon’s heart.”"]}, {"id": "A8.11.18", "lines": ["The Shah, resolved to bring the matter clear,", "Commanded them to summon Nohzar near."]}, {"id": "A8.11.19", "lines": ["With lords and chiefs assembled at his side,", "He spoke to Nohzar, whom he charged to ride:"]}, {"id": "A8.11.20", "lines": ["“Go forth to Sahm, whose fame the world has crowned,", "And ask how he emerged from battle sound;"]}, {"id": "A8.11.21", "lines": ["Then say: ‘The Shah would see you at his seat;", "Come first to court, then homeward turn your feet.’”"]}, {"id": "A8.11.22", "lines": ["Nohzar obeyed, and galloped as decreed;", "When Sahm was told, he mounted on his steed."]}, {"id": "A8.11.23", "lines": ["With elephants, tabiras, chiefs drew near,", "And all rode out to greet the prince with cheer."]}, {"id": "A8.11.24", "lines": ["They met and clasped, exchanged the words of peace;", "Sahm’s heart rejoiced, his welcome did not cease."]}, {"id": "A8.11.25", "lines": ["Nohzar delivered what the Shah had said;", "Sahm answered, “I shall go where I am led."]}, {"id": "A8.11.26", "lines": ["To see the Shah will fill my heart with light.”", "That day he kept them as his guests till night."]}, {"id": "A8.11.27", "lines": ["The banquet spread throughout Sahm’s domain,", "Where wine was poured and joy dispelled all strain."]}, {"id": "A8.11.28", "lines": ["They raised the cup and drank the Shah’s great name,", "Then Nohzar’s, and then Sahm’s, by custom’s claim,"]}, {"id": "A8.11.29", "lines": ["And named each lord of every far-off clime,", "Each province toasted in its proper time."]}, {"id": "A8.11.30", "lines": ["The night was spent in music, wine, and cheer;", "At dawn tabiras once more rang out clear."]}, {"id": "A8.11.31", "lines": ["Swift hiyuns rose; the march resumed; and straight", "They turned their course toward Iran’s royal gate."]}, {"id": "A8.11.32", "lines": ["When word arrived, the Shah adorned his hall;", "He summoned chiefs and warriors, one and all."]}, {"id": "A8.11.33", "lines": ["From Sari and from Amol rose a sound,", "Like boiling seas that shook the country round."]}, {"id": "A8.11.34", "lines": ["The javelin-men came mailed, rank upon rank,", "Their heavy spears held ready on each flank."]}, {"id": "A8.11.35", "lines": ["From mountain on to mountain stretched the line,", "An army drawn in ranks of vast design."]}, {"id": "A8.11.36", "lines": ["Red shields and yellow pressed in ordered rows,", "While tabira, pipe, bronze-cast cymbal rose."]}, {"id": "A8.11.37", "lines": ["With Tazi steeds, great elephants, and gold,", "They marched to greet him, banners all unrolled."]}, {"id": "A8.12.1", "lines": ["Sahm reached the court, dismounted, bowing low,", "And kissed the ground before the Shah’s bright glow."]}, {"id": "A8.12.2", "lines": ["Manuchehr rose from ivory carved and white,", "His ruby crown above him burning bright."]}, {"id": "A8.12.3", "lines": ["He seated Sahm beside him, face to face,", "And showed him every mark of royal grace."]}, {"id": "A8.12.4", "lines": ["He questioned Sahm with anxious, searching care,", "And asked what news of war he came to share:"]}, {"id": "A8.12.5", "lines": ["“Tell me of war, of Gorgasaran’s domain,", "Of hostile armies gathered on the plain,"]}, {"id": "A8.12.6", "lines": ["Of Mazandaran’s Divs, their strength and art,", "Speak fully now, conceal no single part.”"]}, {"id": "A8.12.7", "lines": ["The chief replied: “Live long, victorious king!", "May evil never brush you with its wing."]}, {"id": "A8.12.8", "lines": ["I marched against those fierce and dreadful lands,", "Where lion-like they fight with savage hands."]}, {"id": "A8.12.9", "lines": ["More swift than Tazi horses in their flight,", "More brave than Iran’s champions in the fight."]}, {"id": "A8.12.10", "lines": ["The troops whom men call Sagzars barred our way,", "Like fighting leopards eager for the fray."]}, {"id": "A8.12.11", "lines": ["When news of my approach among them spread,", "My very name drove reason from each head."]}, {"id": "A8.12.12", "lines": ["They raised a battle cry within the town,", "Then left its walls and came to strike us down."]}, {"id": "A8.12.13", "lines": ["From ridge to ridge their countless troops were massed;", "The very sun grew dark, its brightness passed."]}, {"id": "A8.12.14", "lines": ["They came upon us wild, without restraint,", "And fear ran through my ranks; their hearts grew faint."]}, {"id": "A8.12.15", "lines": ["I thought: ‘How shall I bear this crushing blow?’", "And saw no path, no refuge from this foe."]}, {"id": "A8.12.16", "lines": ["I shouted to my shaken ranks aloud,", "And called them back before the hostile crowd."]}, {"id": "A8.12.17", "lines": ["I raised my hundred-man gorz for the fray,", "And urged my iron charger on its way."]}, {"id": "A8.12.18", "lines": ["I rode among them, striking head on head,", "And filled their shaken ranks with sudden dread."]}, {"id": "A8.12.19", "lines": ["Then came their chieftain, Kakouy, fierce and tall,", "Like some dark wolf that howls the slaughter’s call;"]}, {"id": "A8.12.20", "lines": ["Through Salm he sprang; through Zahhak came his dam,", "And proud chiefs’ heads were dust before that man."]}, {"id": "A8.12.21", "lines": ["His army swarmed like ants and locusts near;", "No plain, no hill, no rocky height stood clear."]}, {"id": "A8.12.22", "lines": ["When from that mass the heavy dust spread wide,", "The color left the champions at my side."]}, {"id": "A8.12.23", "lines": ["Again I raised that heavy gorz in sight,", "And held my shaken army for the fight."]}, {"id": "A8.12.24", "lines": ["I roared aloud, my voice across the plain;", "The earth beneath them turned like grinding grain."]}, {"id": "A8.12.25", "lines": ["Then courage found its way to every heart,", "And all resolved to take the battle’s part."]}, {"id": "A8.12.26", "lines": ["When Kakouy heard my roar across the field,", "And knew my gorz, he would not turn or yield."]}, {"id": "A8.12.27", "lines": ["He came like raging elephant to stand,", "A long kamand held ready in his hand."]}, {"id": "A8.12.28", "lines": ["He cast it wide, but I was swift to turn,", "And slipped aside while still his eyes did burn."]}, {"id": "A8.12.29", "lines": ["I took the great Kayanian bow to hold,", "And set steel-headed arrows, keen and cold."]}, {"id": "A8.12.30", "lines": ["I loosed the eagle-arrow from the string,", "Then rained down fire with every feathered wing."]}, {"id": "A8.12.31", "lines": ["His head seemed like an anvil under rain;", "The arrows stitched his helmet to his brain."]}, {"id": "A8.12.32", "lines": ["Through dust he charged, an elephant drunk with fight,", "An Indian sword was flashing in the light."]}, {"id": "A8.12.33", "lines": ["So fierce he seemed in rushing to the strife,", "A mountain would have begged him for its life."]}, {"id": "A8.12.34", "lines": ["I drew him on, withdrew a measured pace,", "Then seized him firmly, face to furious face."]}, {"id": "A8.12.35", "lines": ["I gripped his girdle, wrenched him from his place,", "Like lion seizing quarry in the chase."]}, {"id": "A8.12.36", "lines": ["Like raging elephant I struck him down,", "And all his bones were shattered on the ground."]}, {"id": "A8.12.37", "lines": ["When thus their chief was hurled in shameful fall,", "His army turned and fled beyond recall."]}, {"id": "A8.12.38", "lines": ["Through slope and plain, through wilderness and hill,", "They scattered into bands and fled on still."]}, {"id": "A8.12.39", "lines": ["Twelve thousand, horse and foot, lay dead in sight;", "We counted them when ended was the fight."]}, {"id": "A8.12.40", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand formed their gathered might,", "Yet what are foes against your fortune’s light?"]}, {"id": "A8.12.41", "lines": ["What stands against the fortune you command,", "When I but serve the purpose of your hand?”"]}, {"id": "A8.12.42", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced to hear that victory’s boon,", "And raised his shining crown toward the moon."]}, {"id": "A8.12.43", "lines": ["He spread the wine and feast in glad array,", "And saw the world washed clean of foes that day."]}, {"id": "A8.12.44", "lines": ["That night was spent in merriment and song,", "In wine and joy that carried hearts along."]}, {"id": "A8.12.45", "lines": ["At dawn the court was opened to the light;", "Sahm stood before the throne in royal sight."]}, {"id": "A8.12.46", "lines": ["Peerless Sahm blessed the Shah with words of grace,", "And sought to speak of Mehrab and Zal’s case."]}, {"id": "A8.12.47", "lines": ["But Manuchehr forestalled the words he planned,", "And turned the speech at once to his command:"]}, {"id": "A8.12.48", "lines": ["“Go with my chosen chiefs without delay;", "Throughout Hind then let fire mark your way."]}, {"id": "A8.12.49", "lines": ["Burn Mehrab’s palace, Kabul with its wall;", "Let none of dragon-seed escape at all."]}, {"id": "A8.12.50", "lines": ["From time to time that blood will raise its cry,", "And war and tumult fill the earth thereby."]}, {"id": "A8.12.51", "lines": ["Kill all who stand connected to his line,", "The nobles bound to him by bond and sign."]}, {"id": "A8.12.52", "lines": ["And all who spring from his accursed seed,", "Or trace to sorcerer Zahhak their breed."]}, {"id": "A8.12.53", "lines": ["Sever their heads, and cleanse the earth’s domain", "Of Zahhak’s kin and all his tainted strain.”"]}, {"id": "A8.12.54", "lines": ["The Shah showed such sharp anger in his face,", "Sahm dared not add one word within that place."]}, {"id": "A8.12.55", "lines": ["He kissed the throne, his face against its base,", "Before the vengeful Shah, in fear’s embrace."]}, {"id": "A8.12.56", "lines": ["He answered, “I will do as you require,", "And clear the Shah’s heart of avenging fire.”"]}, {"id": "A8.12.57", "lines": ["Then homeward with his army Sahm was bound,", "On wind-foot mounts that scarcely touched the ground."]}, {"id": "A8.13.1", "lines": ["Mehrab and Zal heard all that late had passed;", "The Shah’s command left all Kabul aghast."]}, {"id": "A8.13.2", "lines": ["A cry arose throughout Mehrab’s domain;", "Fear swept through house and court and open plain."]}, {"id": "A8.13.3", "lines": ["Sindokht, Mehrab, and Rudabeh all", "Despaired of life before the threatened fall."]}, {"id": "A8.13.4", "lines": ["Then Zal departed, stern though sorrow-worn,", "Yet firm in will, though inwardly forlorn:"]}, {"id": "A8.13.5", "lines": ["“Should some grim dragon breathe its wrathful fire,", "And set the whole world blazing like a pyre,"]}, {"id": "A8.13.6", "lines": ["And should it seek to ravage Kabul’s land,", "It first must take my head beneath its hand.”"]}, {"id": "A8.13.7", "lines": ["With troubled heart and thoughts that surged and turned,", "He rode in haste, and in his heart he burned."]}, {"id": "A8.13.8", "lines": ["News reached brave Sahm: “Your lion-cub draws near.”", "At once the army rose with mounting cheer."]}, {"id": "A8.13.9", "lines": ["Fereydoon’s banner rose above the throng,", "And welcoming tabiras thundered long."]}, {"id": "A8.13.10", "lines": ["On elephants bright-colored banners flew,", "In red and yellow, violet in hue."]}, {"id": "A8.13.11", "lines": ["They rode to greet him. Zal, when he drew near,", "Dismounted, bowed, and came with reverent fear."]}, {"id": "A8.13.12", "lines": ["The chiefs of either side dismounted, each:", "The crowned, and those with crowns still out of reach."]}, {"id": "A8.13.13", "lines": ["Zal kissed the earth; his father spoke at length,", "Then Zal remounted in his youthful strength."]}, {"id": "A8.13.14", "lines": ["He rode a bay Tazi horse, swift and grand,", "Like some high golden mountain through the land."]}, {"id": "A8.13.15", "lines": ["They murmured, “Your father’s anger shows;", "Go offer an excuse; no prideful pose.”"]}, {"id": "A8.13.16", "lines": ["Zal answered, “There is nothing here to dread;", "At last all mortal flesh to dust is led."]}, {"id": "A8.13.17", "lines": ["If wisdom enters in my father’s head,", "No harm will pass beyond the words he said."]}, {"id": "A8.13.18", "lines": ["And if my father speaks in angry blame,", "My tears will answer him with filial shame.”"]}, {"id": "A8.13.19", "lines": ["Thus to Sahm’s court they came with spirits clear;", "The chief dismounted; Zal was summoned near."]}, {"id": "A8.13.20", "lines": ["He bowed and kissed the ground before his sire,", "His eyes with tears, his heart alive with fire."]}, {"id": "A8.13.21", "lines": ["He blessed his father, while from narcissus eyes", "His tears washed roses under sorrowed skies:"]}, {"id": "A8.13.22", "lines": ["“May joy attend our Pahlevan each day;", "May justice ever light his heart and way."]}, {"id": "A8.13.23", "lines": ["Your sword makes diamond burn beneath its sweep;", "The earth on battle-days is made to weep."]}, {"id": "A8.13.24", "lines": ["Where your dark charger moves upon the field,", "The slowest ranks make haste and never yield."]}, {"id": "A8.13.25", "lines": ["The heavens, once they feel your gorz-wind rise,", "Know stars themselves can scarcely keep the skies."]}, {"id": "A8.13.26", "lines": ["Through justice all the earth beneath you grows;", "Its greenness from your righteous judgment flows."]}, {"id": "A8.13.27", "lines": ["All people through your justice live in cheer;", "Yet I alone receive no justice here."]}, {"id": "A8.13.28", "lines": ["A bird-reared, dust-eating man am I;", "No equal have I underneath the sky."]}, {"id": "A8.13.29", "lines": ["I know no crime that I have done or planned,", "No man has rightful grievance at my hand,"]}, {"id": "A8.13.30", "lines": ["Except that mighty Sahm himself is sire;", "If skill is mine, it springs from such a fire."]}, {"id": "A8.13.31", "lines": ["Right at my birth, you cast me from your side,", "And left me on the mountains bare and wide."]}, {"id": "A8.13.32", "lines": ["You cast my grieving mother into pain,", "And gave her growing child to fire’s reign."]}, {"id": "A8.13.33", "lines": ["No cradle knew I, nor my mother’s breast;", "No kinsman stood beside me, gave me rest."]}, {"id": "A8.13.34", "lines": ["You bore me to the mountain, cast me bare,", "And tore my heart from comfort, ease, and care."]}, {"id": "A8.13.35", "lines": ["You made war on the World-Creator’s right:", "‘Why has He made one black, another white?’"]}, {"id": "A8.13.36", "lines": ["Yet God preserved me, turned to me His face,", "And gave me strength no hardship could erase."]}, {"id": "A8.13.37", "lines": ["I gained both skill and manhood, warrior’s blade,", "And found a friend whose worth will never fade:"]}, {"id": "A8.13.38", "lines": ["Mehrab of Kabul, with his crown and gold,", "His throne and heavy gorz in warrior’s hold,"]}, {"id": "A8.13.39", "lines": ["With counsel, wisdom, and crowned chiefs beside;", "Such is the lord with whom I now abide."]}, {"id": "A8.13.40", "lines": ["By your own word I made his realm my base,", "And kept your counsel ever in its place."]}, {"id": "A8.13.41", "lines": ["You said: ‘No grief from me shall come your way;", "The tree you plant shall bear its fruit one day.’"]}, {"id": "A8.13.42", "lines": ["From Mazandaran comes this gift you send;", "From Gorgasaran you hastened to this end,"]}, {"id": "A8.13.43", "lines": ["To ruin now the prosperous house I made;", "Is this the justice I am to be paid?"]}, {"id": "A8.13.44", "lines": ["Behold, alive before you here I stand;", "My living body waits upon your hand."]}, {"id": "A8.13.45", "lines": ["Saw me in two across the waist instead;", "But speak no more of Kabul when I am dead."]}, {"id": "A8.13.46", "lines": ["Do anything you wish; command is yours;", "Whatever harms Kabul, my heart endures.”"]}, {"id": "A8.13.47", "lines": ["Sahm heard these words, raised ears, and lowered mane;", "The truth of Zal’s reproach brought inward pain."]}, {"id": "A8.13.48", "lines": ["At last he said: “All this you speak is true.", "From first to last, I have done wrong to you."]}, {"id": "A8.13.49", "lines": ["My dealings with you all were born of wrong;", "They made our enemies rejoice too long."]}, {"id": "A8.13.50", "lines": ["This one desire alone you asked of me;", "In anguish you rose up to make your plea."]}, {"id": "A8.13.51", "lines": ["Yet do not act in haste; I shall decree,", "I will resolve it wisely, you shall see."]}, {"id": "A8.13.52", "lines": ["I shall myself write to the Shah and plead,", "And place in your own hands the scroll you need."]}, {"id": "A8.13.53", "lines": ["The king will seek no harm when you appear,", "And see your gifts and noble bearing clear."]}, {"id": "A8.13.54", "lines": ["We shall recall whatever must be said,", "And turn his heart toward justice in its stead."]}, {"id": "A8.13.55", "lines": ["If he consents, your wish is safely won;", "The work that you desire will all be done."]}, {"id": "A8.13.56", "lines": ["The lion does its labor with its arm;", "Wherever it hunts, the quarry comes to harm.”"]}, {"id": "A8.13.57", "lines": ["Then Zal bent low and kissed the earth, and blessed", "His father for the pledge his words expressed."]}, {"id": "A8.14.1", "lines": ["A scribe before them took his ordered place,", "While they discussed the matter face to face."]}, {"id": "A8.14.2", "lines": ["He opened first with praise of God, the Guide:", "“He was, He is, and ever shall abide."]}, {"id": "A8.14.3", "lines": ["From Him come good and evil, what may be;", "We all are servants; God alone is He."]}, {"id": "A8.14.4", "lines": ["Whatever He ordains for all to see,", "Directs the turning heavens by decree."]}, {"id": "A8.14.5", "lines": ["He rules Saturn, sun, and moon on high;", "May blessings crown Manuchehr beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "A8.14.6", "lines": ["In battle, poison no theriac can stay;", "In feast, the moon that turns the dark to day."]}, {"id": "A8.14.7", "lines": ["He wields the gorz and opens conquered lands,", "And shares out joy and fortune from his hands."]}, {"id": "A8.14.8", "lines": ["He bears Fereydoon’s banner through the strife,", "And takes the proud war-leopard’s very life."]}, {"id": "A8.14.9", "lines": ["The wind of his gorz turns a mountain’s crest", "To dust beneath the hoof his charger pressed."]}, {"id": "A8.14.10", "lines": ["His heart brings wolf and sheep to drink as one,", "By justice bound beneath a single sun."]}, {"id": "A8.14.11", "lines": ["I am his servant, bowed with age and toil;", "Some sixty years I trod this earthly soil."]}, {"id": "A8.14.12", "lines": ["My hair is white as camphor, pale with age,", "The sun and moon have crowned my later stage."]}, {"id": "A8.14.13", "lines": ["I bound my waist and served in warrior’s place,", "And fought the sorcerers face to face."]}, {"id": "A8.14.14", "lines": ["No rider matched my pace on any field,", "No warrior struck as hard and did not yield."]}, {"id": "A8.14.15", "lines": ["My heavy gorz struck fear in every foe;", "No arm in Mazandaran matched its blow."]}, {"id": "A8.14.16", "lines": ["Had I left no mark upon the world of men,", "Proud chiefs would still have held their heads up then."]}, {"id": "A8.14.17", "lines": ["A dragon once came from the Kashaf River,", "And made the world before its terror shiver."]}, {"id": "A8.14.18", "lines": ["Its breadth from town to town engulfed the land;", "Its height from peak to peak rose vast and grand."]}, {"id": "A8.14.19", "lines": ["Men kept their watch both day and through the night;", "No creature dared remain within its sight."]}, {"id": "A8.14.20", "lines": ["The sky stood empty; every bird had fled;", "No beast remained where once the wild things bred."]}, {"id": "A8.14.21", "lines": ["Its burning breath consumed the vulture’s flight;", "Its venom set the very earth alight."]}, {"id": "A8.14.22", "lines": ["It dragged the raging water-beast from deep,", "And snatched the eagle where the high winds sweep."]}, {"id": "A8.14.23", "lines": ["The land lay empty, stripped of life and sound;", "No man nor beast would linger near that ground."]}, {"id": "A8.14.24", "lines": ["Then none dared face it; I alone stood fast,", "And chose to meet the monster’s fiery blast."]}, {"id": "A8.14.25", "lines": ["Through Yazdan, Maker, Lord of all the land,", "I cast all fear aside and made my stand."]}, {"id": "A8.14.26", "lines": ["I bound my waist and mounted for the fight,", "Upon my elephant-bodied charger’s might."]}, {"id": "A8.14.27", "lines": ["An ox-head gorz hung ready at my side,", "My bow upon my arm, my shield was tied."]}, {"id": "A8.14.28", "lines": ["I rode against the monster without dread,", "My claw was sharp, its deadly breath ahead."]}, {"id": "A8.14.29", "lines": ["All those who heard that I would face its might", "Bade me farewell before I joined the fight."]}, {"id": "A8.14.30", "lines": ["From head to tail it rose, a mountain grand;", "Its streaming hair trailed like a long kamand."]}, {"id": "A8.14.31", "lines": ["Its tongue stood forth just like a blackened tree;", "Its open jaws were terrible to see."]}, {"id": "A8.14.32", "lines": ["Its eyes were pools of blood, immense and red;", "It saw me, roared, and charged with wrath ahead."]}, {"id": "A8.14.33", "lines": ["I thought, O Shah, that fire was at my side;", "So fierce its burning presence spread out wide."]}, {"id": "A8.14.34", "lines": ["The world before my eyes became a sea;", "Black smoke rose up and veiled the world from me."]}, {"id": "A8.14.35", "lines": ["Its roar made all earth’s face reel to and fro;", "Its venom turned the ground to Chin’s dark flow."]}, {"id": "A8.14.36", "lines": ["I roared in answer like a lion bold,", "And did not wait though terror took its hold."]}, {"id": "A8.14.37", "lines": ["I set a khadang, diamond at its head,", "And drew the bow until the shaft was sped."]}, {"id": "A8.14.38", "lines": ["I drove the shaft to sew one side in place;", "Its tongue protruded, fixed across its face."]}, {"id": "A8.14.39", "lines": ["A second arrow struck its mouth and tore;", "It twisted, writhing from the wound it bore."]}, {"id": "A8.14.40", "lines": ["A third shaft struck the center of its maw;", "A stream of liver-blood ran red and raw."]}, {"id": "A8.14.41", "lines": ["It pressed me hard and narrowed all the ground;", "I drew my ox-head gorz of vengeance round."]}, {"id": "A8.14.42", "lines": ["Through Yazdan’s strength I drove my charger on,", "And swung my gorz until the beast was gone."]}, {"id": "A8.14.43", "lines": ["I struck its head; the heavens seemed to rain", "A mountain down upon the monster’s brain."]}, {"id": "A8.14.44", "lines": ["Its skull broke like a worn-out elephant’s head;", "Its poison poured like Nile waters running red."]}, {"id": "A8.14.45", "lines": ["One blow I struck; it fell and could not rise;", "Its brains lay scattered under mountain skies."]}, {"id": "A8.14.46", "lines": ["The Kashaf River filled with blood and gall;", "The earth found rest and sleep once more for all."]}, {"id": "A8.14.47", "lines": ["The land was freed; the people gathered near,", "And blessed my name now rid of mortal fear."]}, {"id": "A8.14.48", "lines": ["Men watched that battle throughout all the land,", "And saw the monstrous dragon fall by my hand."]}, {"id": "A8.14.49", "lines": ["They called me Sahm of One Blow for that fight;", "The world cast gems before me in delight."]}, {"id": "A8.14.50", "lines": ["I left the fight, my shining body bare;", "My famed jowshan lay broken past repair."]}, {"id": "A8.14.51", "lines": ["My charger’s armor also fell away;", "That poison left me stricken many a day."]}, {"id": "A8.14.52", "lines": ["For years that country yielded nothing green,", "But burned and bitter thorns, a barren scene."]}, {"id": "A8.14.53", "lines": ["To tell that my wars with Divs would extend", "This letter far beyond a fitting end."]}, {"id": "A8.14.54", "lines": ["In every other venture that I led,", "I brought the proud chiefs’ heads beneath my tread."]}, {"id": "A8.14.55", "lines": ["Wherever pranced my charger in the fray,", "The raging lion cleared my horse’s way."]}, {"id": "A8.14.56", "lines": ["For years the saddle’s back has been my throne,", "My horse the very earth that I have known."]}, {"id": "A8.14.57", "lines": ["My gorz subdued the lands beneath your reign;", "Mazandaran, Gorgasaran domain."]}, {"id": "A8.14.58", "lines": ["I sought no gain but served your crown and name,", "To bring you honor, triumph, strength, and fame."]}, {"id": "A8.14.59", "lines": ["But now my strength of old has slipped away;", "My back is bent, my beard and temples gray."]}, {"id": "A8.14.60", "lines": ["The lofty mane I raised in former years,", "The gorz-stroke once so feared, no more appears."]}, {"id": "A8.14.61", "lines": ["Once I could cast a kamand far and wide;", "Now age has stooped my frame and dimmed my pride."]}, {"id": "A8.14.62", "lines": ["So now the warrior’s turn to Zal has passed;", "To him I give my belt and gorz held fast."]}, {"id": "A8.14.63", "lines": ["Like me, he shall diminish every foe;", "His deeds will make your royal gladness grow."]}, {"id": "A8.14.64", "lines": ["He comes to ask the wish his heart has kept,", "A secret hope within his breast has slept."]}, {"id": "A8.14.65", "lines": ["His wish is good in Yazdan’s judgment still,", "For every good lies under Yazdan’s will."]}, {"id": "A8.14.66", "lines": ["We acted not without our sovereign’s leave;", "No servant may his lord’s command deceive."]}, {"id": "A8.14.67", "lines": ["You know the vow I made before your sight,", "When first I brought him down from Alborz’s height."]}, {"id": "A8.14.68", "lines": ["That I would not deny what he would seek;", "Now he has come to me his wish to speak."]}, {"id": "A8.14.69", "lines": ["He came before me, blood upon his face,", "His bones seemed split and shattered out of place."]}, {"id": "A8.14.70", "lines": ["He says it would be better far to fall", "Than strike at Kabul and bring death to all."]}, {"id": "A8.14.71", "lines": ["Yet one reared far apart, on wild crags grown,", "Might lose his wits when such a face is shown,"]}, {"id": "A8.14.72", "lines": ["A moon in Kabul, radiant and fair,", "A slender cypress crowned with flowers rare."]}, {"id": "A8.14.73", "lines": ["If such a bird-reared man should lose his mind,", "The Shah should take no vengeance of this kind."]}, {"id": "A8.14.74", "lines": ["His suffering has reached so hard a state,", "Whoever sees him pities now his fate."]}, {"id": "A8.14.75", "lines": ["Though innocent, he bore such grief and woe;", "Therefore my pledge remains, as you well know."]}, {"id": "A8.14.76", "lines": ["I send him now, his heart oppressed by care,", "To seek your royal judgment, just and fair."]}, {"id": "A8.14.77", "lines": ["When he stands present at your royal seat,", "Do what a sovereign judges right and meet."]}, {"id": "A8.14.78", "lines": ["I need not teach the wisdom of your reign;", "To counsel such a Shah brings him no gain."]}, {"id": "A8.14.79", "lines": ["He is my only son beneath the sun,", "My comfort and my aid till life is done."]}, {"id": "A8.14.80", "lines": ["From Sahm Nariman to the world’s great king,", "A thousand blessings on his chiefs I bring.”"]}, {"id": "A8.14.81", "lines": ["When all was written, every word made right,", "Zal took the letter and prepared for flight."]}, {"id": "A8.14.82", "lines": ["He mounted as the karnay’s summons rang;", "Toward the Shah his warrior escort sprang."]}, {"id": "A8.14.83", "lines": ["Then Zal departed Kabul on his way;", "Sahm One Blow in the garden chose to stay."]}, {"id": "A8.15.1", "lines": ["When rumor spread through Kabul’s guarded gate,", "Mehrab burned hot with fury at their fate."]}, {"id": "A8.15.2", "lines": ["He summoned Sindokht; all the wrath that stirred", "Against her child he poured on her in word:"]}, {"id": "A8.15.3", "lines": ["“The only course, since I must bow to might,", "Is to cleanse this stain in the Shah’s sight."]}, {"id": "A8.15.4", "lines": ["I seize you and your child in your disgrace,", "And strike you down to wipe out this foul trace."]}, {"id": "A8.15.5", "lines": ["So may the Shah be softened, earth find peace,", "And from this terror Kabul gain release."]}, {"id": "A8.15.6", "lines": ["Who here would dare stand firm before brave Sahm,", "Or meet his heavy gorz and still be calm?”"]}, {"id": "A8.15.7", "lines": ["Sindokht sank down, yet reason held her mind;", "She weighed the storm, a path through it to find."]}, {"id": "A8.15.8", "lines": ["Deep-sighted, skilled in counsel under strain,", "She sought a road through danger, death, and pain."]}, {"id": "A8.15.9", "lines": ["She rose, hands gathered close, and crossed the room,", "Before the sun-bright king amid his gloom:"]}, {"id": "A8.15.10", "lines": ["“Hear but one word, then do as you may choose;", "Grant me that much; there is no time to lose."]}, {"id": "A8.15.11", "lines": ["If wealth exists to ransom life, then spend;", "No treasure matters if our lives must end."]}, {"id": "A8.15.12", "lines": ["Know well that this dark night is pregnant now;", "Give time for what it carries to avow."]}, {"id": "A8.15.13", "lines": ["However long the night, its dark must cease;", "The day will break like spring and bring release."]}, {"id": "A8.15.14", "lines": ["The world may shine, its darkness overrun,", "Like Badakhshan’s bright jewel beneath the sun.”"]}, {"id": "A8.15.15", "lines": ["Then Mehrab cried: “Tell no old tales today", "Among the warriors; speak what you can say."]}, {"id": "A8.15.16", "lines": ["Find means to save your life while life remains,", "Or wear the blood-red shroud that death ordains!”"]}, {"id": "A8.15.17", "lines": ["She answered, “Let no blood be spilled; forbear;", "Give me the road; a path I will prepare."]}, {"id": "A8.15.18", "lines": ["I go to Sahm; my tongue shall leave its sheath,", "A sword of speech to meet the danger beneath."]}, {"id": "A8.15.19", "lines": ["For wisdom cooks raw speech till it is fit;", "Through counsel, words gain force and measured wit."]}, {"id": "A8.15.20", "lines": ["My task is life. Your part is wealth to give;", "Provide the means, and we may yet all live.”"]}, {"id": "A8.15.21", "lines": ["He gave the treasury key into her hand:", "“Do not grieve over wealth at my command."]}, {"id": "A8.15.22", "lines": ["Take servants, horses, treasure, crown, and throne;", "Prepare whatever riches we have known."]}, {"id": "A8.15.23", "lines": ["Perhaps then Kabul will escape the blaze;", "Its withered gardens bloom in better days.”"]}, {"id": "A8.15.24", "lines": ["Sindokht replied: “If life be what you seek,", "Then treasure counts for nothing, hear me speak:"]}, {"id": "A8.15.25", "lines": ["While I avert the storm now rising near,", "Swear that no harm shall touch our daughter dear."]}, {"id": "A8.15.26", "lines": ["For her I strive; I do not fear my end;", "Her life alone is what I would defend.”"]}, {"id": "A8.15.27", "lines": ["She first exacted from him covenant strong,", "That Rudabeh should suffer neither hurt nor wrong."]}, {"id": "A8.15.28", "lines": ["Then robed herself in brocade, pearls, and gold,", "With precious rubies brilliant to behold."]}, {"id": "A8.15.29", "lines": ["From Mehrab’s hoard she drew a lavish store,", "Three hundred thousand golden coins she bore."]}, {"id": "A8.15.30", "lines": ["Sixty Tazi and Persian steeds were led,", "With silver harness gleaming at each head."]}, {"id": "A8.15.31", "lines": ["Sixty fair servants, golden torques they wore,", "Came ranked and ordered from the palace door."]}, {"id": "A8.15.32", "lines": ["Each bore a golden cup before the sun,", "With musk and camphor heaped in every one,"]}, {"id": "A8.15.33", "lines": ["With rubies, gold, and turquoise richly set,", "And other gems no eye could soon forget."]}, {"id": "A8.15.34", "lines": ["A hundred red-haired female camels came,", "Bent under burdens worthy of their fame."]}, {"id": "A8.15.35", "lines": ["A hundred more strong camels bore the load,", "With costly fabrics for the onward road."]}, {"id": "A8.15.36", "lines": ["A crown befitting kings, with jewels ablaze,", "With armlets, torques, and earrings fit for praise;"]}, {"id": "A8.15.37", "lines": ["A golden throne like heaven’s vaulted height,", "Inlaid with gems that scattered living light,"]}, {"id": "A8.15.38", "lines": ["Its breadth was twenty royal cubits wide;", "Its height rose like a mounted chief in pride."]}, {"id": "A8.15.39", "lines": ["Four elephants at last of Indian breed,", "Bore silks and carpets for the royal need."]}, {"id": "A8.16.1", "lines": ["The treasures sent, she donned a warrior’s guise,", "And passed the guarded gates before their eyes."]}, {"id": "A8.16.2", "lines": ["A Roman helmet gleamed upon her head,", "In warrior’s guise along the road she sped."]}, {"id": "A8.16.3", "lines": ["Her charger flew as swiftly as the gale,", "And left the guarded road behind her trail."]}, {"id": "A8.16.4", "lines": ["Like Azargashasp in her bearing bright,", "She rode toward Sahm resolved to face his might."]}, {"id": "A8.16.5", "lines": ["She gave no name, nor let her rank be known,", "But reached brave Sahm’s encampment all alone."]}, {"id": "A8.16.6", "lines": ["She bade the knowing warders bear her word,", "And only as Mehrab’s envoy be heard:"]}, {"id": "A8.16.7", "lines": ["“An envoy comes from Kabul to this place,", "To speak with Sahm, the chief of warlike race,"]}, {"id": "A8.16.8", "lines": ["A message sent from Mehrab’s royal hand", "To him who holds dominion over the land.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.9", "lines": ["The chamberlain conveyed the message clear;", "Sahm granted audience, curious to hear."]}, {"id": "A8.16.10", "lines": ["She dismounted, bowed low upon the ground,", "And praised both Shah and Sahm with measured sound."]}, {"id": "A8.16.11", "lines": ["Before him stretched her tribute far and wide:", "Rich gifts and slaves and beasts in ordered stride."]}, {"id": "A8.16.12", "lines": ["From Sahm’s own gate the train stretched far away,", "For two full measures in its bright array."]}, {"id": "A8.16.13", "lines": ["Attendants, horses, elephants in line", "Made all the road with ordered tribute shine."]}, {"id": "A8.16.14", "lines": ["Sahm drew his arms in, lowered down his head,", "Like one half-drunk before the wealth outspread."]}, {"id": "A8.16.15", "lines": ["“What land can hold such wealth, such boundless store,", "What custom sends one woman to my door?"]}, {"id": "A8.16.16", "lines": ["If I accept, the Shah may take offense;", "If I refuse, Zal’s grief will grow intense."]}, {"id": "A8.16.17", "lines": ["He may take wing like Simorgh through the sky,", "Then ask what answer I can give; and why.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.18", "lines": ["At last he spoke: “These gifts shall not be mine;", "To Zal’s own treasury send them all in line."]}, {"id": "A8.16.19", "lines": ["Record them there in Rudabeh’s fair name,", "The Moon of Kabul, bright with royal fame.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.20", "lines": ["Sindokht rejoiced; she saw good fortune rise,", "And knew that evil faded from her eyes."]}, {"id": "A8.16.21", "lines": ["Three maidens came, each idol-faced and fair,", "With jasmine bodies, cypress-tall and rare."]}, {"id": "A8.16.22", "lines": ["Each in her hand a jeweled goblet bore,", "And stepped with measured grace across the floor."]}, {"id": "A8.16.23", "lines": ["Red rubies and bright pearls each vessel filled;", "Before the chief their jeweled wealth was spilled."]}, {"id": "A8.16.24", "lines": ["They poured them out before the hero’s gaze,", "A shining tribute offered to his praise."]}, {"id": "A8.16.25", "lines": ["When all withdrew and strangers left the place,", "She turned to Sahm and spoke with steady grace:"]}, {"id": "A8.16.26", "lines": ["“Your wisdom grants the old their youth again,", "And teaches wisdom to the greatest men."]}, {"id": "A8.16.27", "lines": ["Through you the road of darkness turns to light;", "The wise grow wiser standing in your sight."]}, {"id": "A8.16.28", "lines": ["Your seal has bound the hand that evil led;", "Your gorz has opened God’s true road ahead."]}, {"id": "A8.16.29", "lines": ["If fault there was, it lay with Mehrab’s hand;", "His eyes hold heart-blood shed for Kabul’s land."]}, {"id": "A8.16.30", "lines": ["Why should the innocent heads of Kabul fall?", "What guilt have they committed, one and all?"]}, {"id": "A8.16.31", "lines": ["They live to serve you, dust beneath your feet,", "And deem your favor all their joy complete."]}, {"id": "A8.16.32", "lines": ["Fear Him who fashioned mind and strength on high,", "Bright Venus and the sun within the sky."]}, {"id": "A8.16.33", "lines": ["Such slaughter cannot please the Maker’s will;", "He did not shape the world for needless ill."]}, {"id": "A8.16.34", "lines": ["Gird not your strength for slaughter and for flame;", "Let mercy, not bloodshed, attend your name.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.35", "lines": ["Then Sahm replied: “Speak plainly and be clear:", "Are you his lesser, or his honored peer?"]}, {"id": "A8.16.36", "lines": ["You speak of her whom Zal has sought to wed;", "Describe her fully, all that can be said:"]}, {"id": "A8.16.37", "lines": ["Her mind, her form, her stature and her face,", "Her hair, her nature, and her inward grace.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.38", "lines": ["She answered: “First, before I speak at all,", "Swear me an oath that stands beyond recall."]}, {"id": "A8.16.39", "lines": ["Swear that no harm shall touch me or my own,", "And all the truth to you shall then be known."]}, {"id": "A8.16.40", "lines": ["I hold a palace, treasure, household, kin;", "First grant me safety, then I shall begin."]}, {"id": "A8.16.41", "lines": ["To Zabul I will send our hidden store,", "The wealth long guarded behind Kabul’s door."]}, {"id": "A8.16.42", "lines": ["And what else you may fittingly require,", "I shall provide according to desire.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.43", "lines": ["Sahm took her hand and swore as she required;", "He pledged her safety, just as she desired."]}, {"id": "A8.16.44", "lines": ["She bowed, then rose once he had pledged his word,", "And told the hidden truth that none had heard:"]}, {"id": "A8.16.45", "lines": ["“My lineage springs from Zahhak’s ancient line;", "My lord is Mehrab, warrior fierce and fine."]}, {"id": "A8.16.46", "lines": ["I am his consort, mother of that maid", "For whom Zal’s heart in longing has been laid."]}, {"id": "A8.16.47", "lines": ["From deepest night until the dawn grew clear,", "We called upon the Maker without fear."]}, {"id": "A8.16.48", "lines": ["All night we blessed the Shah, and Zal, and you,", "And prayed that fortune favor all we do."]}, {"id": "A8.16.49", "lines": ["I come to learn what purpose fills your mind,", "And what intent toward Kabul I shall find."]}, {"id": "A8.16.50", "lines": ["Who there is counted enemy or friend?", "On knowing this our hopes and fears depend."]}, {"id": "A8.16.51", "lines": ["If we are guilty, evil in our seed,", "Then crown and rule should pass from such a breed."]}, {"id": "A8.16.52", "lines": ["Here helpless I stand wholly in your hand;", "Do what your judgment and your power command."]}, {"id": "A8.16.53", "lines": ["Strike whom you must, and bind whom you must bind;", "Let guilt alone the weight of vengeance find."]}, {"id": "A8.16.54", "lines": ["But spare the innocent in Kabul’s keep;", "Do not make guiltless hearts in sorrow weep.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.55", "lines": ["Sahm listened well and saw before his sight", "A woman wise, with soul both strong and bright."]}, {"id": "A8.16.56", "lines": ["Her face was spring, her form a cypress slim;", "Her waist was narrow, every feature trim."]}, {"id": "A8.16.57", "lines": ["Her gait was like a pheasant, proud and fair;", "Deep judgment marked her speech and every air."]}, {"id": "A8.16.58", "lines": ["He said: “My word shall stand, though life be lost;", "My oath is firm, whatever be the cost."]}, {"id": "A8.16.59", "lines": ["Return in peace and dwell without alarm;", "No shadow shall approach or bring you harm."]}, {"id": "A8.16.60", "lines": ["Throughout the world Zal could not find a bride", "Like Rudabeh to stand as equal at his side."]}, {"id": "A8.16.61", "lines": ["Though sprung from other roots, your house I own", "As worthy too of diadem and throne."]}, {"id": "A8.16.62", "lines": ["No shame is found in what the heavens send;", "Against the Maker’s will no man can contend."]}, {"id": "A8.16.63", "lines": ["One rises high, another falls below;", "Such is the world, as all its changes show."]}, {"id": "A8.16.64", "lines": ["One grows in wealth, another fades in need;", "Prosperity and want in turn succeed."]}, {"id": "A8.16.65", "lines": ["Yet both at last return to earth and clay;", "For all must meet the same appointed day."]}, {"id": "A8.16.66", "lines": ["I will support your cause and be your guide;", "Your grief and pleading I cannot set aside."]}, {"id": "A8.16.67", "lines": ["To Manuchehr I wrote, my purpose shown,", "And Zal has gone to make the matter known."]}, {"id": "A8.16.68", "lines": ["He flew as if no saddle held him fast,", "His horse outstripped the winds that hurried past."]}, {"id": "A8.16.69", "lines": ["The bird-raised youth stood weeping in a flood;", "His tears had pooled around his feet like mud."]}, {"id": "A8.16.70", "lines": ["The Shah will answer kindly to his plea;", "For love has bent his spirit, you shall see."]}, {"id": "A8.16.71", "lines": ["If she returns his love with equal flame,", "Both lovers might burst from their skins the same."]}, {"id": "A8.16.72", "lines": ["Now let me see this maid who caused such strife,", "And won my dear son’s heart, and changed his life."]}, {"id": "A8.16.73", "lines": ["Now show me that young dragon’s child to see,", "And take the fitting price you earn from me."]}, {"id": "A8.16.74", "lines": ["Her face may please me when she comes to view,", "And what she says may prove her judgment true.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.75", "lines": ["She answered: “If you ride within our hall,", "Your servant’s head will rise above them all."]}, {"id": "A8.16.76", "lines": ["Come with your steed into our palace bright;", "Your coming will lift Kabul’s heart to light."]}, {"id": "A8.16.77", "lines": ["If Sahm should enter Kabul as its guide,", "Our people gladly would lay life aside."]}, {"id": "A8.16.78", "lines": ["Our lives are yours; before you we shall stand,", "If only you will honor Kabul’s land.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.79", "lines": ["He saw her lips now smiling, fear withdrawn,", "The root of enmity from her heart gone."]}, {"id": "A8.16.80", "lines": ["He laughed and said: “Let fear no longer stay;", "This matter soon shall move the wished-for way.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.81", "lines": ["She took her leave, her mission fully done,", "Her face grew ruby-bright beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "A8.16.82", "lines": ["A courier swift she sent ahead in flight:", "“Rejoice,” she said, “cast every fear from sight."]}, {"id": "A8.16.83", "lines": ["Prepare yourself to greet a noble guest;", "I follow soon; let all be at its best.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.84", "lines": ["Next day the sun sprang like a fountain clear,", "And heads rose wakeful as the dawn drew near."]}, {"id": "A8.16.85", "lines": ["At Sahm’s great gate a stir of welcome ran:", "“The moon of women comes,” cried every man."]}, {"id": "A8.16.86", "lines": ["Sindokht returned and bowed before the chief,", "Then spoke at length, her heart released from grief."]}, {"id": "A8.16.87", "lines": ["She asked permission to return, and bring", "Her joy to Kabul, to its waiting king."]}, {"id": "A8.16.88", "lines": ["“I must prepare to greet the coming guest,", "And send the bridegroom home with bond expressed.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.89", "lines": ["He said, “Go forth, tell him all you have heard;", "Let every plan proceed by rightful word.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.90", "lines": ["He gave rich robes and gifts for Mehrab’s share,", "And gifts for Sindokht, splendid, rich, and rare."]}, {"id": "A8.16.91", "lines": ["For Rudabeh he sent choice gifts, well weighed,", "Rich, fair, and fitting for the moon-faced maid."]}, {"id": "A8.16.92", "lines": ["He granted all he owned in Kabul’s land,", "Its halls and gardens into Sindokht’s hand."]}, {"id": "A8.16.93", "lines": ["Its tilled estates, its herds, its household store,", "Its robes and furnishings, and even more."]}, {"id": "A8.16.94", "lines": ["He gave them all to seal the peace they made,", "A lordly gift in full before her laid."]}, {"id": "A8.16.95", "lines": ["He clasped her hand and swore again his vow:", "“Be safe, and dread no enemy from now."]}, {"id": "A8.16.96", "lines": ["I take your daughter now for Zal to wed;", "Let joy between the two of them be spread.”"]}, {"id": "A8.16.97", "lines": ["Two hundred warriors joined her homeward train,", "A guard of honor riding rein to rein."]}, {"id": "A8.16.98", "lines": ["With fortune favoring every step she made,", "She turned toward home beneath that guarded aid."]}, {"id": "A8.16.99", "lines": ["Her moonlike face, once withered under care,", "Now bloomed again, restored and shining fair."]}, {"id": "A8.17.1", "lines": ["Now hear how Zal came forth before the king,", "As Fortune blessed his coming on the wing."]}, {"id": "A8.17.2", "lines": ["Word came: “The son of Sahm has neared the hall.”", "The nobles rose to greet him, one and all."]}, {"id": "A8.17.3", "lines": ["As Zal approached, they opened wide the way,", "And led him straight before the Shah that day."]}, {"id": "A8.17.4", "lines": ["He entered and approached the royal seat,", "Then kissed the earth in homage at his feet."]}, {"id": "A8.17.5", "lines": ["For some time still his face remained below,", "In humble reverence before Manuchehr’s glow."]}, {"id": "A8.17.6", "lines": ["The kindly Shah, moved deeply by the sight,", "Bade dust be wiped from Zal’s face clean and bright."]}, {"id": "A8.17.7", "lines": ["Then musk was scattered richly on his face;", "The Shah received him with abundant grace."]}, {"id": "A8.17.8", "lines": ["When Zal arose and stood before his gaze,", "The Shah addressed him then with gracious praise:"]}, {"id": "A8.17.9", "lines": ["“How did you fare upon that difficult way,", "Through wind and dust that beat you all the day?”"]}, {"id": "A8.17.10", "lines": ["Zal answered: “Through your farr all things grow bright;", "With you all hardship turns to pure delight.”"]}, {"id": "A8.17.11", "lines": ["The Shah received the letter Sahm had sent,", "And smiled; his heart grew glad with its intent."]}, {"id": "A8.17.12", "lines": ["He read old Sahm’s appeal from end to end,", "And heard the grief beneath each word he penned."]}, {"id": "A8.17.13", "lines": ["He said: “You add still further to my pain;", "This matter weighs upon my heart, a chain."]}, {"id": "A8.17.14", "lines": ["Yet for your father and the words he sends,", "I grant the wish on which your heart depends."]}, {"id": "A8.17.15", "lines": ["Whatever you desire I shall allow;", "Stay here in happiness beside me now."]}, {"id": "A8.17.16", "lines": ["Remain awhile while I consider well", "What course may serve you best; then I shall tell.”"]}, {"id": "A8.17.17", "lines": ["The cooks set out a golden table’s fare;", "The Shah sat down with Zal beside his chair."]}, {"id": "A8.17.18", "lines": ["He called the kingdom’s famous chiefs to dine,", "And all sat down in ordered rank and line."]}, {"id": "A8.17.19", "lines": ["When food was done, another seat was made;", "There wine was poured and royal joy displayed."]}, {"id": "A8.17.20", "lines": ["Then Zal mounted a horse with harness gold,", "And rode away as evening shadows rolled."]}, {"id": "A8.17.21", "lines": ["Through all the night his heart was full of thought,", "His lips with words that restless worry brought."]}, {"id": "A8.17.22", "lines": ["At dawn he came once more with girded frame", "Before the Shah of ever-glorious name,"]}, {"id": "A8.17.23", "lines": ["The Shah received him with a gracious cheer,", "And blessed the Pahlevan as he drew near."]}, {"id": "A8.17.24", "lines": ["Then, when Zal turned away from royal view,", "The Shah in private praised the worth he knew."]}, {"id": "A8.17.25", "lines": ["Then did the Shah command the wise be brought,", "The Mobadan and those of subtle thought,"]}, {"id": "A8.17.26", "lines": ["The chiefs, Mobadan, readers of the sky,", "To search the stars and learn what they imply."]}, {"id": "A8.17.27", "lines": ["Before the lofty throne they gathered near,", "To make the heavens’ hidden judgment clear."]}, {"id": "A8.17.28", "lines": ["They labored three long days beneath the skies,", "Till truth stood clear before the judging eyes."]}, {"id": "A8.17.29", "lines": ["They took the Indian zij and traced each sign,", "And made their reckoning by its design."]}, {"id": "A8.17.30", "lines": ["Then spoke the seers: “The stars have made it clear:", "A stream of shining water shall appear."]}, {"id": "A8.17.31", "lines": ["From Mehrab’s daughter, joined to Sahm’s own line,", "A high-souled hero, famed, shall rise and shine."]}, {"id": "A8.17.32", "lines": ["With towering strength, of everlasting name,", "And matchless prowess, wisdom, lasting fame."]}, {"id": "A8.17.33", "lines": ["His years shall stretch beyond the common span,", "With strength and farr befitting such a man."]}, {"id": "A8.17.34", "lines": ["In feast and battle none shall be his peer;", "Wherever sweats his steed, his foes know fear."]}, {"id": "A8.17.35", "lines": ["His rival’s liver shall grow dry with dread;", "No eagle dares to pass above his head."]}, {"id": "A8.17.36", "lines": ["The chiefs of all the world he shall outdo;", "Tall, mighty, fearless, steadfast, brave, and true."]}, {"id": "A8.17.37", "lines": ["Each raging lion he shall catch alive;", "His circling kamand leaves no chance to strive."]}, {"id": "A8.17.38", "lines": ["He roasts the Gur-e-Khar upon the fire;", "His sword makes heaven weep beneath his ire."]}, {"id": "A8.17.39", "lines": ["He shall be girded in the service of kings;", "Iran’s riders seek the shelter that he brings.”"]}, {"id": "A8.17.40", "lines": ["The Shah then said: “Keep secret what you say;", "Let none beyond this council bear it away.”"]}, {"id": "A8.18.1", "lines": ["The Shah then summoned Zal to test his mind,", "With riddles deep and subtly designed."]}, {"id": "A8.18.2", "lines": ["The Mobadan and sages, gathered near,", "Cloaked all their meanings, subtle and unclear."]}, {"id": "A8.18.3", "lines": ["One hailed him sharp of mind and clear of sight,", "Whose wisdom pierced what others hid from light."]}, {"id": "A8.18.4", "lines": ["One spoke to him and offered this first test:", "“What are the twelve tall cypresses all dressed"]}, {"id": "A8.18.5", "lines": ["In perfect form, upright in shining grace,", "Each crowned with thirty branches in its place?"]}, {"id": "A8.18.6", "lines": ["No more, no less, by Persian count they stand;", "Declare their nature, if you understand.”"]}, {"id": "A8.18.7", "lines": ["Another said: “Now tell us, if you know,", "What are two steeds forever on the go?"]}, {"id": "A8.18.8", "lines": ["One gleams like crystal, radiant, clear, and bright;", "The other like a sea of pitch at night."]}, {"id": "A8.18.9", "lines": ["They race in haste, each striving on its course,", "Yet neither overtakes the other horse.”"]}, {"id": "A8.18.10", "lines": ["A third then asked: “What thirty riders go", "Before their king in one long, steady flow?"]}, {"id": "A8.18.11", "lines": ["One seems to vanish when the count is made,", "Yet count once more, and thirty stand displayed.”"]}, {"id": "A8.18.12", "lines": ["A fourth inquired: “What is that meadow wide,", "Where streams run full and grasses thick abide,"]}, {"id": "A8.18.13", "lines": ["To which a reaper comes, his sickle keen,", "And cuts alike the withered and the green?"]}, {"id": "A8.18.14", "lines": ["He hears no cry, nor answers any plea;", "What is that field, and who can this man be?”"]}, {"id": "A8.18.15", "lines": ["Another spoke: “What are those cypress trees,", "A lofty pair beside the tossing seas?"]}, {"id": "A8.18.16", "lines": ["A bird upon the pair has made its rest,", "At dusk on one, at dawn upon the next."]}, {"id": "A8.18.17", "lines": ["When it flies off, the leaves grow dry and bare;", "Where it alights, musk scents the waiting air."]}, {"id": "A8.18.18", "lines": ["Together never are the two seen green;", "One fresh with life, the other dry and lean.”"]}, {"id": "A8.18.19", "lines": ["The sixth then said: “Upon a mountain height", "I saw a fortress, strong before my sight."]}, {"id": "A8.18.20", "lines": ["Its people left that mountain stronghold’s site,", "And chose a thorny plain for their delight."]}, {"id": "A8.18.21", "lines": ["There in the thorn-land they began to dwell,", "And raised tall roofs where moonlit shadows fell."]}, {"id": "A8.18.22", "lines": ["The former city vanished from their mind;", "Its name and memory both were left behind."]}, {"id": "A8.18.23", "lines": ["But suddenly the earth one day shall shake,", "And all their settled country ruin take."]}, {"id": "A8.18.24", "lines": ["Then memory of the former town shall rise,", "And long regret shall fill the people’s eyes."]}, {"id": "A8.18.25", "lines": ["Now look behind the veil these riddles cast;", "Search out the hidden meanings held there fast."]}, {"id": "A8.18.26", "lines": ["Declare the secret now before the learned,", "And let the black earth into musk be turned.”"]}, {"id": "A8.19.1", "lines": ["Zal paused a while, absorbed in inward thought,", "And weighed each hidden question they had brought."]}, {"id": "A8.19.2", "lines": ["He raised his mane and spread his shoulders wide,", "Then every hidden answer he supplied:"]}, {"id": "A8.19.3", "lines": ["“The cypresses, those twelve tall trees you named,", "Are months by which the passing year is framed."]}, {"id": "A8.19.4", "lines": ["Each bears full thirty branches in its span,", "The days that mark the measure dealt to man."]}, {"id": "A8.19.5", "lines": ["When thirty days are passed, their course is done;", "Thus turns the wheel beneath the circling sun."]}, {"id": "A8.19.6", "lines": ["You spoke of chargers, one in white, one black,", "That chase each other, never tired nor slack."]}, {"id": "A8.19.7", "lines": ["These are the two that sweep across the sky:", "The night and day that ever onward fly."]}, {"id": "A8.19.8", "lines": ["They strain in chase, yet neither gains the lead,", "While heaven counts each human breath with heed."]}, {"id": "A8.19.9", "lines": ["They never meet, though endless is their flight;", "Like quarry before hound they race from sight."]}, {"id": "A8.19.10", "lines": ["Again, the thirty riders that appear", "Are nights that mark the turning lunar sphere."]}, {"id": "A8.19.11", "lines": ["At times one night is missing from the line;", "The count falls back from thirty to twenty-nine."]}, {"id": "A8.19.12", "lines": ["Now for the twin tall cypresses you named,", "Above a restless sea with winds inflamed:"]}, {"id": "A8.19.13", "lines": ["These are the two great arms of heaven’s sphere,", "Whose changing courses govern darkness here."]}, {"id": "A8.19.14", "lines": ["From Aries onward till Libra draws near,", "The dark stays hidden and the light runs clear."]}, {"id": "A8.19.15", "lines": ["Beyond that turn, as heaven wheels its frame,", "The darkness lengthens and the light grows tame."]}, {"id": "A8.19.16", "lines": ["The bird that moves between them on its run", "Is none but our bright ever-burning sun;"]}, {"id": "A8.19.17", "lines": ["From it come hope and fear to all below,", "As heaven turns and makes our fortunes flow."]}, {"id": "A8.19.18", "lines": ["The mountain-city high beyond our sight", "Is lasting home where deeds are brought to light."]}, {"id": "A8.19.19", "lines": ["The thorn-land town wherein men choose to stay", "Is this brief lodging where we pass our day."]}, {"id": "A8.19.20", "lines": ["Here we take pleasure, suffer loss and gain,", "Are raised in joy, or cast in grief and pain."]}, {"id": "A8.19.21", "lines": ["Time counts each breath that passes through our frame,", "Now raising us, now casting down the same."]}, {"id": "A8.19.22", "lines": ["At last come wind and earthquake through the earth,", "And sweep away the signs of mortal birth."]}, {"id": "A8.19.23", "lines": ["We leave our labor in this thorny place,", "And journey toward the former city’s grace."]}, {"id": "A8.19.24", "lines": ["Another reaps the fruit that we have sown,", "Yet he in turn shall lose what seemed his own."]}, {"id": "A8.19.25", "lines": ["Thus has it been, and thus the world shall run;", "What one man leaves another takes when done."]}, {"id": "A8.19.26", "lines": ["If to that other home we bear good name,", "Our souls shall there receive their honored claim."]}, {"id": "A8.19.27", "lines": ["But if we live for greed and evil gain,", "Its truth appears when lifeless we remain."]}, {"id": "A8.19.28", "lines": ["Though palace roofs to Saturn’s height may rise,", "One shroud alone will cover mortal eyes."]}, {"id": "A8.19.29", "lines": ["Then dust shall settle over face and head,", "While fear and grief keep company with the dead."]}, {"id": "A8.19.30", "lines": ["As for the meadow and the reaper grim,", "Whose scythe spares none who stand or bow to him,"]}, {"id": "A8.19.31", "lines": ["That reaper, Time, cuts all within his sight;", "We are the grass beneath his sweeping might."]}, {"id": "A8.19.32", "lines": ["Grandchild and grandfather are both the same;", "He spares no branch for lineage or name."]}, {"id": "A8.19.33", "lines": ["All ages fall alike beneath his blade;", "No child is born but death’s path must be made."]}, {"id": "A8.19.34", "lines": ["Through one gate we arrive, through one depart,", "While Time keeps count of every breath from start.”"]}, {"id": "A8.20.1", "lines": ["When Zal had thus resolved each hidden word,", "The court was struck with wonder as they heard."]}, {"id": "A8.20.2", "lines": ["The nobles marveled, joyed in his reply;", "The Shah cried out in pleasure, standing high:"]}, {"id": "A8.20.3", "lines": ["“Well done!” he cried, and ordered straightaway", "A hall made bright as moon on its fourteenth day."]}, {"id": "A8.20.4", "lines": ["There wine was poured, and through the livelong night", "They drank till sense gave way to glad delight."]}, {"id": "A8.20.5", "lines": ["At last the cry to mount rang from the hall;", "One after one they answered to the call."]}, {"id": "A8.20.6", "lines": ["They left the court still joyful, flushed with wine,", "Each hand in hand with comrades from the line."]}, {"id": "A8.20.7", "lines": ["When dawn cast light upon the mountain’s height,", "And chiefs arose restored from wine and night,"]}, {"id": "A8.20.8", "lines": ["Zal came before the Shah, his waist girt tight,", "And stood there like a male lion in his might:"]}, {"id": "A8.20.9", "lines": ["“My lord, I long to see my father’s face;", "Yet having touched the threshold of your grace,"]}, {"id": "A8.20.10", "lines": ["I kissed the base of your great ivory seat;", "Your crown and royal farr made joy complete.”"]}, {"id": "A8.20.11", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Young warrior, tarry still;", "One day remain and gratify my will."]}, {"id": "A8.20.12", "lines": ["Perhaps your thoughts are fixed on one so fair,", "Not on your father; is she not your care?”"]}, {"id": "A8.20.13", "lines": ["He bade the cymbal, Indian bell resound,", "And karnay call the warriors to the ground."]}, {"id": "A8.20.14", "lines": ["They rode with lance and gorz and bow and shield,", "And turned the plain into a bristling field."]}, {"id": "A8.20.15", "lines": ["They loosed their shafts at marks set in a line,", "And proved their skill in feats of war’s design."]}, {"id": "A8.20.16", "lines": ["With gorz and sword, with arrow and with spear,", "Each wheeled his horse and showed his prowess clear."]}, {"id": "A8.20.17", "lines": ["The Shah from high observed what each could show,", "Their open skills and hidden arts below."]}, {"id": "A8.20.18", "lines": ["The Shah saw Dastan’s mastery of the steed;", "No tale had told of such surpassing deed."]}, {"id": "A8.20.19", "lines": ["An ancient tree stood rooted in the plain;", "Long years and months had passed through sun and rain."]}, {"id": "A8.20.20", "lines": ["Zal bent his bow and spurred his mount to race,", "Then raised his battle cry and gathered pace."]}, {"id": "A8.20.21", "lines": ["He shot the ancient trunk with royal force;", "The arrow pierced it cleanly in its course."]}, {"id": "A8.20.22", "lines": ["Then men advanced with shields and javelins bright,", "To show their craft before the King’s own sight."]}, {"id": "A8.20.23", "lines": ["Zal called his Turk page: “Bring the shield I need,”", "Then raised his mane and spurred his eager steed."]}, {"id": "A8.20.24", "lines": ["He cast his bow aside and raised his spear,", "A heavy javelin, balanced, bright, and clear."]}, {"id": "A8.20.25", "lines": ["His javelin pierced three shields in one fierce cast,", "And through the third it drove and hurtled past."]}, {"id": "A8.20.26", "lines": ["The Shah then turned and questioned all the band:", "“What warrior now will test this hero’s hand?”"]}, {"id": "A8.20.27", "lines": ["A famous rider answered from the throng,", "In arrow, spear, and shield both fierce and strong."]}, {"id": "A8.20.28", "lines": ["The warriors readied weapons, angered all,", "And answered challenge boldly to the call."]}, {"id": "A8.20.29", "lines": ["They spurred ahead with spears prepared for fight,", "Their water-tempered points flashed cold and bright."]}, {"id": "A8.20.30", "lines": ["Zal drove his steed and raised a cloud of dust;", "Then man met man beneath the lances’ thrust."]}, {"id": "A8.20.31", "lines": ["He marked a noble rider famed for skill,", "A hardened warrior, fierce of hand and will."]}, {"id": "A8.20.32", "lines": ["He charged; the warrior wheeled and fled away;", "Zal pressed behind him, hunting down his prey."]}, {"id": "A8.20.33", "lines": ["From out the dust Zal sprang with leopard speed,", "And closed upon the rider’s fleeing steed."]}, {"id": "A8.20.34", "lines": ["He seized the rider’s girdle in his hand,", "And tore him from his seat before the band."]}, {"id": "A8.20.35", "lines": ["He raised him lightly from the saddle-seat;", "The Shah and army marveled at the feat."]}, {"id": "A8.20.36", "lines": ["The chiefs cried out in wonder at the sight:", "“No man has ever shown such strength and might!”"]}, {"id": "A8.20.37", "lines": ["“Such deeds as these no living man has shown;", "No equal to this youth has yet been known!”"]}, {"id": "A8.20.38", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Brave young man, remain this way,", "Bright-souled and fortunate through every day."]}, {"id": "A8.20.39", "lines": ["The mother of whoever seeks your fight", "Will dye her mourning robe in lapis night."]}, {"id": "A8.20.40", "lines": ["No lioness has borne a man like you;", "Among all the nahangs your place is due."]}, {"id": "A8.20.41", "lines": ["And blessed is Sahm, whose name shall long endure,", "Who leaves behind a rider brave and sure.”"]}, {"id": "A8.20.42", "lines": ["The Shah blessed Zal; the Pahlevans, amazed,", "Looked on his strength with wonder, and they praised."]}, {"id": "A8.20.43", "lines": ["The nobles, girded, wearing caps of state,", "Returned together through the palace gate."]}, {"id": "A8.20.44", "lines": ["A robe of honor, crown, and golden chair", "The Shah bestowed, all jeweled, rich, and rare,"]}, {"id": "A8.20.45", "lines": ["With armlet, torque, and golden girdle bright,", "Rich cups, steeds, servants; all a splendid sight."]}, {"id": "A8.20.46", "lines": ["The Shah bestowed the treasures in his hall;", "Zal kissed the earth in gratitude for all."]}, {"id": "A8.21.1", "lines": ["The Shah wrote Sahm an answer of good cheer,", "With wondrous, auspicious words both bright and clear:"]}, {"id": "A8.21.2", "lines": ["“O valiant chief, whose victories endure,", "In every undertaking strong and sure,"]}, {"id": "A8.21.3", "lines": ["In battle, feast, and counsel none compare;", "The turning heavens have seen no form so fair."]}, {"id": "A8.21.4", "lines": ["Your blessed son, brave Zal, shall win great fame;", "The world shall long preserve the rider’s name."]}, {"id": "A8.21.5", "lines": ["He came, and through him all your wish I knew,", "Your counsel and the purpose you pursue."]}, {"id": "A8.21.6", "lines": ["Whatever you desired has now been done;", "And Zal desired the same, your noble son."]}, {"id": "A8.21.7", "lines": ["I granted every wish that Zal made known,", "And gave him every favor as his own."]}, {"id": "A8.21.8", "lines": ["Through him auspicious days come into view;", "May fortune keep his path forever true."]}, {"id": "A8.21.9", "lines": ["What can be born from lion whose own prey", "Is leopard, but a fierce lion in the fray?"]}, {"id": "A8.21.10", "lines": ["I sent him forth rejoicing on his way;", "May every evil thought stay far away.”"]}, {"id": "A8.21.11", "lines": ["Then Zal went forth with head uplifted high,", "Above the warriors as he journeyed by."]}, {"id": "A8.21.12", "lines": ["Then Zal, in joy, sent forth a rider swift,", "To tell his father of the Shah’s great gift:"]}, {"id": "A8.21.13", "lines": ["“I left the Shah with royal honors shown;", "He gave a robe, a crown, an ivory throne,"]}, {"id": "A8.21.14", "lines": ["A noble horse, a torque, and treasures rare,", "Bestowed with honor and with generous care."]}, {"id": "A8.21.15", "lines": ["With gifts in hand, I hasten now to you,", "My honored father, renowned and ever true.”"]}, {"id": "A8.21.16", "lines": ["Sahm heard the news, and joy so filled his soul", "His aged head seemed young again and whole."]}, {"id": "A8.21.17", "lines": ["He sent a rider swift to Kabul’s gate", "To bear the news that lightened all their fate:"]}, {"id": "A8.21.18", "lines": ["“The sovereign of the world has shown such grace", "That joy has banished sorrow from its place."]}, {"id": "A8.21.19", "lines": ["As soon as Dastan reaches me again,", "Together we shall ride with worthy men.”"]}, {"id": "A8.21.20", "lines": ["The rider hastened on to Kabul’s hall;", "Mehrab received the news and heard it all."]}, {"id": "A8.21.21", "lines": ["Mehrab rejoiced that kinship had begun", "With Zabulistan’s radiant, noble sun."]}, {"id": "A8.21.22", "lines": ["As if the soulless had received a soul,", "As if gray age grew young and once more whole."]}, {"id": "A8.21.23", "lines": ["He summoned musicians there from every side,", "Who played as if their souls were scattered wide."]}, {"id": "A8.21.24", "lines": ["Then Mehrab called Sindokht before his sight:", "“O fortunate in counsel, wise and bright,"]}, {"id": "A8.21.25", "lines": ["Through your advice this darkened place saw light;", "You reached a branch that kings acclaim as right."]}, {"id": "A8.21.26", "lines": ["Since you began this matter, deftly planned,", "Now bring it to fulfillment by your hand."]}, {"id": "A8.21.27", "lines": ["My treasury lies open at your call;", "Take crown or throne or wealth; take freely all.”"]}, {"id": "A8.21.28", "lines": ["Sindokht withdrew and sought her daughter’s side,", "And told the news with joy she could not hide:"]}, {"id": "A8.21.29", "lines": ["“The one you chose is worthy, and his fame", "Lets high-souled men lift heads that know no shame."]}, {"id": "A8.21.30", "lines": ["You hastened toward the wish within your heart;", "Now all you sought is yours in every part.”"]}, {"id": "A8.21.31", "lines": ["Rudabeh bowed, then spoke before them all:", "“O queenly woman, praised in every hall,"]}, {"id": "A8.21.32", "lines": ["The dust beneath your feet shall be my bed;", "By your command my every path is led."]}, {"id": "A8.21.33", "lines": ["May Ahriman’s evil eye stay far away;", "May feast and joy within your spirit stay.”"]}, {"id": "A8.21.34", "lines": ["Then Sindokht turned to set the palace fair,", "And decked it out beyond what words declare:"]}, {"id": "A8.21.35", "lines": ["She made the halls a Paradise so rare,", "With wine, musk, ambergris throughout the air."]}, {"id": "A8.21.36", "lines": ["Gold-woven carpets stretched from wall to wall,", "With emerald threads that shone throughout the hall."]}, {"id": "A8.21.37", "lines": ["Bright pearls were worked like drops of water clear,", "Their liquid brilliance gleaming, sphere on sphere."]}, {"id": "A8.21.38", "lines": ["A golden throne she set with royal care,", "In craftsmen’s style of Chin, both rich and fair."]}, {"id": "A8.21.39", "lines": ["Its figures glittered, filled with precious stone,", "With jeweled carvings through the patterns shown."]}, {"id": "A8.21.40", "lines": ["Its ruby feet burned crimson in the light;", "Kayanian splendor crowned the throne in sight."]}, {"id": "A8.21.41", "lines": ["She dressed Rudabeh, Paradise her face,", "And worked a hundred spells of beauty’s grace,"]}, {"id": "A8.21.42", "lines": ["And seated her within a gold-wrought room,", "Where every ornament enhanced her bloom."]}, {"id": "A8.21.43", "lines": ["No stranger crossed the chamber’s guarded gate;", "None entered while Rudabeh sat to wait."]}, {"id": "A8.21.44", "lines": ["All Kabulistan shone in rich array,", "With scent and color, treasure on display."]}, {"id": "A8.21.45", "lines": ["The elephants wore Roman brocade bright;", "Crowned minstrels rode upon them in delight."]}, {"id": "A8.21.46", "lines": ["They dressed the roads for Zal’s approaching ride,", "And summoned servants in from every side."]}, {"id": "A8.21.47", "lines": ["With musk and ambergris the servants came;", "They scattered treasure as they praised his name."]}, {"id": "A8.21.48", "lines": ["They spread rich furs and silks upon the ground,", "While emeralds and gold were cast around."]}, {"id": "A8.21.49", "lines": ["They wet the dust with rosewater and wine;", "The roadway flowed with fragrance rich and fine."]}, {"id": "A8.22.1", "lines": ["Zal rode in haste, a bird across the sky,", "A ship upon the water speeding by."]}, {"id": "A8.22.2", "lines": ["All those who knew that Zal was drawing near", "Rode out to greet him with auspicious cheer."]}, {"id": "A8.22.3", "lines": ["A cry rose from the curtained royal hall:", "“Zal, blessed in counsel, has arrived!” the call."]}, {"id": "A8.22.4", "lines": ["Sahm came to meet him, joyful at the sight,", "And held him in his arms with full delight."]}, {"id": "A8.22.5", "lines": ["When freed from his embrace, Zal kissed the ground,", "And told what he had seen and heard all round."]}, {"id": "A8.22.6", "lines": ["Then Sahm sat on his rich and honored seat,", "With Zal beside him, happiness complete."]}, {"id": "A8.22.7", "lines": ["He spoke of Sindokht, smiling as he told", "The words that she had brought from Kabul’s hold:"]}, {"id": "A8.22.8", "lines": ["“A message came from Kabul to my hall;", "A woman, Sindokht, bore and told it all."]}, {"id": "A8.22.9", "lines": ["She asked a pledge; I gave my word to her", "That no ill thought toward her would ever stir."]}, {"id": "A8.22.10", "lines": ["Whatever good she asked, I pledged it true;", "We set each term in friendship, firm and due."]}, {"id": "A8.22.11", "lines": ["First, Kabul’s moon shall wed with Zabul’s sun;", "Their two great houses shall be joined as one."]}, {"id": "A8.22.12", "lines": ["And next, that we should journey as her guests", "And heal all wounds that trouble hearts and breasts."]}, {"id": "A8.22.13", "lines": ["Again her messenger has reached our door:", "All stands prepared, with color, scent, and store."]}, {"id": "A8.22.14", "lines": ["What answer shall we send upon the way?", "What shall we tell Mehrab without delay?”"]}, {"id": "A8.22.15", "lines": ["At this Zal’s body took a ruby hue;", "From head to foot his joyful color grew."]}, {"id": "A8.22.16", "lines": ["He answered, “Pahlevan, if this seems right,", "Then let us shape the journey in your sight."]}, {"id": "A8.22.17", "lines": ["Before the army let us ride apart,", "And speak of this together, heart to heart.”"]}, {"id": "A8.22.18", "lines": ["Sahm looked at Zal and laughed to see his face;", "He knew at once what longing held its place."]}, {"id": "A8.22.19", "lines": ["Whatever speech was not of Mehrab’s maid", "Was night to Zal, where sleep itself would fade."]}, {"id": "A8.22.20", "lines": ["He bade the bell and Indian daray sound,", "And had the pavilion curtains opened round."]}, {"id": "A8.22.21", "lines": ["A valiant courier mounted with all speed,", "Upon a swift hiyun, bred for such need."]}, {"id": "A8.22.22", "lines": ["“Great Sahm is coming, Zal beside his way,", "With elephants and troops in full array.”"]}, {"id": "A8.22.23", "lines": ["The courier reached Mehrab and gave his word,", "Recounting everything he saw and heard."]}, {"id": "A8.22.24", "lines": ["Mehrab rejoiced; arghavan-red bloom", "Came to his face and banished every gloom."]}, {"id": "A8.22.25", "lines": ["The bronze pipe sounded, and the kousts replied;", "His army gleamed like rooster’s eye, fire-dyed."]}, {"id": "A8.22.26", "lines": ["With mighty elephants and minstrels near,", "The earth became a Paradise of cheer."]}, {"id": "A8.22.27", "lines": ["Silken standards of many colors flew;", "Red, green, and yellow, violet in hue."]}, {"id": "A8.22.28", "lines": ["The pipe and harp rang out across the throng,", "With roaring horn and bells that joined the song."]}, {"id": "A8.22.29", "lines": ["You might have thought the final day was here:", "Was this resurrection, or a feast of cheer?"]}, {"id": "A8.22.30", "lines": ["So Mehrab rode until he reached the train,", "Then left his horse and stepped upon the plain."]}, {"id": "A8.22.31", "lines": ["Then Sahm embraced him, glad to meet that day,", "And asked how turning Time had shaped his way."]}, {"id": "A8.22.32", "lines": ["Mehrab gave praise to father and to son,", "And blessed them both when greeting rites were done."]}, {"id": "A8.22.33", "lines": ["He mounted on his swift horse, rising soon,", "Like from a mountain crest the newborn moon."]}, {"id": "A8.22.34", "lines": ["A golden crown with jewels blazing bright", "He placed on Zal before the people’s sight."]}, {"id": "A8.22.35", "lines": ["They reached Kabul, both laughing, spirits high,", "Recalling ancient tales as they passed by."]}, {"id": "A8.22.36", "lines": ["The Indian bell, the barbat, harp, and flute", "Made every street resound in loud salute."]}, {"id": "A8.22.37", "lines": ["It seemed each door and rooftop joined the song,", "And Time itself was newly decked along."]}, {"id": "A8.22.38", "lines": ["The horses’ forelocks, manes from end to end,", "With musk and saffron richly seemed to blend."]}, {"id": "A8.22.39", "lines": ["Then Sindokht came in ceremonial array,", "Three hundred girded attendants led the way."]}, {"id": "A8.22.40", "lines": ["Each bore a golden cup, and every one", "Held musk and jewels flashing like the sun."]}, {"id": "A8.22.41", "lines": ["They blessed great Sahm as all the cups were raised,", "Then scattered gems before the chief they praised."]}, {"id": "A8.22.42", "lines": ["Each guest who came to share the festal cheer", "Received such wealth that want could not draw near."]}, {"id": "A8.22.43", "lines": ["Sahm smiled and asked, half jesting, half in grace:", "“How long will you conceal this moon-bright face?”"]}, {"id": "A8.22.44", "lines": ["Sindokht replied: “If you would see the sun,", "What price will you bestow when sight is won?”"]}, {"id": "A8.22.45", "lines": ["Sahm answered: “Ask whatever pleases you;", "Of all I own, your chosen gift is due."]}, {"id": "A8.22.46", "lines": ["Whatever I possess; my crown and throne,", "My royal girdle; you may call your own.”"]}, {"id": "A8.22.47", "lines": ["They passed into a chamber worked in gold,", "Where spring itself seemed living to behold."]}, {"id": "A8.22.48", "lines": ["There Sahm looked on the moon-faced maiden’s grace,", "And wonder held him as he viewed her face."]}, {"id": "A8.22.49", "lines": ["He knew not how to praise that radiant sight,", "Nor how to open eyes against such light."]}, {"id": "A8.22.50", "lines": ["By Sahm’s command, Mehrab appeared that night;", "They bound the marriage by the faith and rite."]}, {"id": "A8.22.51", "lines": ["They seated both together on one throne,", "With agate bright and emeralds all their own."]}, {"id": "A8.22.52", "lines": ["A famed diadem adorned the moon-bright bride;", "A jeweled royal crown shone at Zal’s side."]}, {"id": "A8.22.53", "lines": ["Mehrab then brought the written wealth account,", "A copy of the treasure’s full amount."]}, {"id": "A8.22.54", "lines": ["He read each treasure written in the scroll;", "The ear could scarcely bear to hear the whole."]}, {"id": "A8.22.55", "lines": ["Sahm saw such wealth and wonder filled his gaze;", "He spoke the name of Yazdan then in praise."]}, {"id": "A8.22.56", "lines": ["They went to feast and took the cup in hand;", "For one full week the wine flowed through the band."]}, {"id": "A8.22.57", "lines": ["The city rang with cries of joyful sound;", "Sahm’s palace boiled like Paradise around."]}, {"id": "A8.22.58", "lines": ["For one full week no sleep their eyelids knew;", "By day and night their waking pleasures grew."]}, {"id": "A8.22.59", "lines": ["For three more weeks they lived in festal cheer,", "With feast and pleasure ringing in each ear."]}, {"id": "A8.22.60", "lines": ["The nobles of the realm stood rank on rank,", "Before the lofty palace, flank by flank."]}, {"id": "A8.22.61", "lines": ["At month’s end Sahm set out from Kabul’s gate,", "And turned toward Sistan at a rapid rate."]}, {"id": "A8.22.62", "lines": ["After Sahm had gone, Zal feasted seven days,", "Then turned his thoughts toward Sistan’s distant ways."]}, {"id": "A8.22.63", "lines": ["They readied ammari and hodaj for the road,", "A bridal mahd to bear the moon in royal mode."]}, {"id": "A8.22.64", "lines": ["With Sindokht, Mehrab, and their kindred near,", "They took the Sistan road in festive cheer."]}, {"id": "A8.22.65", "lines": ["They journeyed happy-hearted on their way,", "Their lips full of blessings for each generous day."]}, {"id": "A8.22.66", "lines": ["Victorious, they reached Nimruz’s gate,", "All smiling, for the journey’s joy was great."]}, {"id": "A8.22.67", "lines": ["Sahm held a feast that lasted three full days,", "With wine and music and resounding praise."]}, {"id": "A8.22.68", "lines": ["Then Sindokht stayed behind at Sahm’s abode;", "Mehrab and all his army homeward rode."]}, {"id": "A8.22.69", "lines": ["Then Sahm entrusted Zal with kingdom’s care,", "And marched beneath good omens through the air."]}, {"id": "A8.22.70", "lines": ["Toward Gorgasaran and Bakhtar he sped,", "His blessed standard lifted overhead."]}, {"id": "A8.22.71", "lines": ["He said, “That kingdom is my charge to hold,", "Yet hearts and eyes there turn from me grown cold."]}, {"id": "A8.22.72", "lines": ["Manuchehr gave the charter of that land,", "And told me, ‘Hold and rule it in your hand.’"]}, {"id": "A8.22.73", "lines": ["I fear revolt from those of evil birth;", "Mazandaran’s Divs most dangerous on earth."]}, {"id": "A8.22.74", "lines": ["To you, my Zal, I give this royal seat,", "This kingship and its fortunate crown complete.”"]}, {"id": "A8.22.75", "lines": ["Then Sahm One Blow rode outward from the hall;", "Zal sat to rule, with wine and feast for all."]}, {"id": "A8.22.76", "lines": ["When Rudabeh sat shining at his side,", "He placed a gold crown on his loving bride."]}]}, {"id": "A9", "title": "The Birth and Early Feats of Rostam; Manuchehr’s Closing Counsel", "summary": "7 sections · 377 couplets", "path": "/poem/a9/", "couplets": [{"id": "A9.1.1", "lines": ["Not long thereafter, that noble cypress bore", "The fruit that fate had promised long before."]}, {"id": "A9.1.2", "lines": ["Her heart-bright spring began to fade away;", "To grief and suffering her heart gave way."]}, {"id": "A9.1.3", "lines": ["So vast the burden, so severe her woe,", "That blood instead of tears began to flow."]}, {"id": "A9.1.4", "lines": ["Her belly swelled; her body heavy grew,", "Her arghavan-red face turned saffron hue."]}, {"id": "A9.1.5", "lines": ["Sindokht drew near and said with anxious tone,", "“My child, what grief has made your spirit groan?”"]}, {"id": "A9.1.6", "lines": ["Rudabeh said: “I raise my ceaseless cry,", "My lips spread wide with anguish as I lie."]}, {"id": "A9.1.7", "lines": ["Sleepless and withered, scarcely still alive,", "I seem a living corpse that must survive."]}, {"id": "A9.1.8", "lines": ["My hour has come, yet there is no release;", "My body burns; my pain will never cease."]}, {"id": "A9.1.9", "lines": ["My skin seems filled with stone from flesh to bone;", "Within there seems to lie cold iron alone.”"]}, {"id": "A9.1.10", "lines": ["Until the hour of birth came on her fast,", "She needed sleep and rest from anguish past."]}, {"id": "A9.1.11", "lines": ["At last she swooned; loud cries filled all the hall,", "And from the house of Dastan rose the call."]}, {"id": "A9.1.12", "lines": ["Sindokht tore out her perfumed raven hair,", "And struck her face in helpless, wild despair."]}, {"id": "A9.1.13", "lines": ["At once the news was carried straight to Zal:", "“The leaf has withered on your cypress tall.”"]}, {"id": "A9.1.14", "lines": ["With tears he came, his heart undone with dread,", "And reached the couch where she lay, all but dead."]}, {"id": "A9.1.15", "lines": ["The women tore their hair with heads laid bare,", "Their faces wet with tears of black despair."]}, {"id": "A9.1.16", "lines": ["Then suddenly a thought came to his mind:", "The Simorgh’s plume he once had left behind."]}, {"id": "A9.1.17", "lines": ["His pain grew lighter; hope returned instead,", "He smiled and gave Sindokht good news ahead."]}, {"id": "A9.1.18", "lines": ["A brazier blazed beneath his anxious stare;", "He burned the Simorgh’s feather in its flare."]}, {"id": "A9.1.19", "lines": ["At once the sky grew dark before their sight;", "The sovereign bird descended from the height."]}, {"id": "A9.1.20", "lines": ["She came like cloud whose rain was coral red,", "Soul-soothing coral through the heavens spread."]}, {"id": "A9.1.21", "lines": ["Zal praised the sovereign bird, and reverent, bowed", "Before her as she settled from the cloud."]}, {"id": "A9.1.22", "lines": ["She said: “Why weep, O lion strong and wise?", "Why do such tears fall from your mighty eyes?"]}, {"id": "A9.1.23", "lines": ["From this fair cypress, silver-bodied, bright,", "A male lion shall rise, renowned in might."]}, {"id": "A9.1.24", "lines": ["The lion shall kiss dust beneath his tread;", "No cloud shall dare pass over his proud head."]}, {"id": "A9.1.25", "lines": ["His cry shall tear the battle-leopard’s hide;", "It gnaws its claws and shrinks in fear aside."]}, {"id": "A9.1.26", "lines": ["Each warrior hearing his great gorz’s roar,", "Who sees his chest, his arms, his mane in war,"]}, {"id": "A9.1.27", "lines": ["Shall feel his heart leap from its place in fear,", "Though steel-chewing in battle he appear."]}, {"id": "A9.1.28", "lines": ["In place and bearing Sahm himself shall show;", "In wrath, a battle-lion against the foe."]}, {"id": "A9.1.29", "lines": ["A cypress tall, an elephant in might,", "His battle-spear shall fly for two mil in flight."]}, {"id": "A9.1.30", "lines": ["He shall not take the common path of birth;", "The Maker has ordained another road to earth."]}, {"id": "A9.1.31", "lines": ["Bring forth a water-tempered khanjar keen,", "And one most wise and skilled in arts unseen."]}, {"id": "A9.1.32", "lines": ["First make the moon-faced mother drunk with wine,", "And drive out fear and worry for a time."]}, {"id": "A9.1.33", "lines": ["Cut through the flank of that tall cypress deep;", "She shall not feel the blade within her sleep."]}, {"id": "A9.1.34", "lines": ["Then draw the lion from its casket free;", "The moon’s whole flank shall bleed for all to see."]}, {"id": "A9.1.35", "lines": ["Then stitch together where the blade has cut;", "Let fear and grief from every heart be shut."]}, {"id": "A9.1.36", "lines": ["Take now these herbs and grind them to a paste;", "With milk and musk prepare them without haste."]}, {"id": "A9.1.37", "lines": ["Dry them in shade, and where the wound lies deep,", "Lay on the salve, and bind it firm to keep."]}, {"id": "A9.1.38", "lines": ["Then shall her strength return, her color rise,", "And health bloom fresh again before your eyes."]}, {"id": "A9.1.39", "lines": ["Then pass across the wound one plume of mine;", "Beneath my farr its shadow shines divine."]}, {"id": "A9.1.40", "lines": ["Be joyful in this matter, free from fear;", "Give thanks before the Maker of the sphere."]}, {"id": "A9.1.41", "lines": ["For He bestowed this royal tree on you,", "Whose fortune blossoms daily, green and new."]}, {"id": "A9.1.42", "lines": ["So let no grief remain within your heart;", "Your fruitful branch has borne its promised part.”"]}, {"id": "A9.1.43", "lines": ["She spoke, then plucked a feather from her wing,", "And rose aloft through heaven’s circling ring."]}, {"id": "A9.1.44", "lines": ["The Simorgh left; Zal took the plume she gave,", "And followed every counsel, calm and brave."]}, {"id": "A9.1.45", "lines": ["A whole world watched the work with wounded soul,", "With eyes blood-filled as fear possessed them whole."]}, {"id": "A9.1.46", "lines": ["Sindokht wept blood and cried in helpless fear:", "“How shall the child emerge alive from here?”"]}, {"id": "A9.1.47", "lines": ["A dexterous Mobad came with practiced hand,", "And made the moon-faced mother drunk as planned."]}, {"id": "A9.1.48", "lines": ["He cut her flank without a stroke of pain,", "And turned the child’s head from the birthward lane."]}, {"id": "A9.1.49", "lines": ["Unharmed he drew the infant safely free;", "No one had seen such wonder come to be."]}, {"id": "A9.1.50", "lines": ["A lion-child appeared, both tall and fair,", "With champion’s form no other child could share."]}, {"id": "A9.1.51", "lines": ["Men and women marveled at the sight;", "No one had heard of such enormous might."]}, {"id": "A9.1.52", "lines": ["A day and night the mother slept from wine,", "Unconscious as the hours crossed their line."]}, {"id": "A9.1.53", "lines": ["They sewed the wound to ease her sharp despair,", "Applying herbs with gentle, patient care."]}, {"id": "A9.1.54", "lines": ["At last the tall cypress woke from sleep;", "To Sindokht first she spoke from anguish deep."]}, {"id": "A9.1.55", "lines": ["They scattered gold and jewels in delight,", "And praised the Maker who had set things right."]}, {"id": "A9.1.56", "lines": ["They brought the child before her in full cheer,", "And raised him high before her like the sphere."]}, {"id": "A9.1.57", "lines": ["Though only one day old, he seemed one year;", "A mass of lilies, tulips bright and clear."]}, {"id": "A9.1.58", "lines": ["Rudabeh smiled upon the noble boy,", "And saw the royal farr in him with joy."]}, {"id": "A9.1.59", "lines": ["“I am delivered; all my grief is done,”", "She said; and Rostam was the name of her son."]}, {"id": "A9.1.60", "lines": ["They made a figure shaped in silk and thread,", "To match the child in size of limbs and head."]}, {"id": "A9.1.61", "lines": ["With sable fur they packed the figure tight;", "And Venus with the Sun adorned its sight."]}, {"id": "A9.1.62", "lines": ["A dragon coiled upon its arm, fierce, grand;", "A lion’s claw was fastened in its hand."]}, {"id": "A9.1.63", "lines": ["A spear lay tucked beneath the figure’s side;", "One hand held gorz, one rein with martial pride."]}, {"id": "A9.1.64", "lines": ["They set the figure on a bay horse high,", "With several attendants riding close nearby."]}, {"id": "A9.1.65", "lines": ["A swift hiyun was driven from the place;", "By order, silver coins were showered in its trace."]}, {"id": "A9.1.66", "lines": ["That image of the gorz-bearing Rostam then", "Was borne to Sahm, the chief of warlike men."]}, {"id": "A9.1.67", "lines": ["They held a feast in Golestan’s green ground;", "From Kabul on to Zabul joy went round."]}, {"id": "A9.1.68", "lines": ["The whole plain rang with wine and reed-pipe sound;", "A hundred feasts by every hoard were found."]}, {"id": "A9.1.69", "lines": ["Mehrab rejoiced when tidings reached his door,", "And gave the poor gold dinars from his store."]}, {"id": "A9.1.70", "lines": ["Through Zabulistan, stretching end to end,", "Musicians sat wherever roads might bend."]}, {"id": "A9.1.71", "lines": ["The great and small did not sit far apart;", "Like warp and weft they joined in festal art."]}, {"id": "A9.1.72", "lines": ["The envoy laid the figure in his sight;", "And Sahm looked on it, joyful with delight."]}, {"id": "A9.1.73", "lines": ["The hero’s hair stood upright at the view:", "“This silken likeness shows my image true."]}, {"id": "A9.1.74", "lines": ["If half this figure’s stature comes to birth,", "His head will brush the clouds, his hem the earth.”"]}, {"id": "A9.1.75", "lines": ["He called the envoy forward from the rest,", "And poured out silver till it reached his crest."]}, {"id": "A9.1.76", "lines": ["The koust resounded, lifting up a cry;", "The field was decked to gleam like rooster’s eye."]}, {"id": "A9.1.77", "lines": ["Through Sagzar and Mazandaran spread cheer;", "He poured out wine and silver on each peer."]}, {"id": "A9.1.78", "lines": ["When one full week had passed in such delight,", "The famous chief called for a scribe to write."]}, {"id": "A9.1.79", "lines": ["He wrote his answer, rich before their eyes,", "And decked the page like meadow of Paradise."]}, {"id": "A9.1.80", "lines": ["First praise he offered to Yazdan on high,", "Rejoicing as the days went brightly by."]}, {"id": "A9.1.81", "lines": ["Then Sahm praised Zal, whose fame through kingdoms rang,", "The lord of sword and gorz where weapons clang."]}, {"id": "A9.1.82", "lines": ["Then of the silken figure wrote a line:", "Warlike, with Kayanian farr divine."]}, {"id": "A9.1.83", "lines": ["He ordered: “Guard this image from all harm;", "Let not a breath come near to break its charm."]}, {"id": "A9.1.84", "lines": ["In secret I have prayed with all my might", "Before the World-Creator for this sight:"]}, {"id": "A9.1.85", "lines": ["That these world-seeing eyes of mine might see", "From your own seed a son formed after me."]}, {"id": "A9.1.86", "lines": ["Now both your back and mine stand straight and strong;", "We ask that Rostam’s life be hale and long.”"]}, {"id": "A9.1.87", "lines": ["The messenger came like a driving gale,", "To Zal bright-hearted, bearing Sahm’s tale."]}, {"id": "A9.1.88", "lines": ["He told him all of Sahm’s rejoicing news,", "Then gave the letter and his father’s views."]}, {"id": "A9.1.89", "lines": ["When Zal received the word and read it through,", "His heart rose high, his cares dissolved like dew."]}, {"id": "A9.1.90", "lines": ["He raised his gaze toward heaven’s wheeling frame,", "His soul grew vast, his heart a living flame."]}, {"id": "A9.1.91", "lines": ["The turning world moved onward as before;", "What Time had hidden now lay hid no more."]}, {"id": "A9.1.92", "lines": ["Ten nurses fed him milk in constant flow;", "From milk, man’s first reserve, his strength would grow."]}, {"id": "A9.1.93", "lines": ["His milk-days ended; meat and bread appeared;", "On solid fare the growing child was reared."]}, {"id": "A9.1.94", "lines": ["The food of five grown men he ate alone;", "The people marveled at such hunger shown."]}, {"id": "A9.1.95", "lines": ["At eight, young Rostam towered straight and tall;", "A free-grown cypress rising over all."]}, {"id": "A9.1.96", "lines": ["A shining star he seemed before their eyes;", "The world looked on in wonder and surprise."]}, {"id": "A9.1.97", "lines": ["You would have said it was great Sahm, renewed", "In stature, farhang, face, and counsel shrewd."]}, {"id": "A9.2.1", "lines": ["The news reached valiant Sahm: “The son of Zal", "Has grown in strength and stands a lion tall."]}, {"id": "A9.2.2", "lines": ["No child within the world has ever grown", "Nor such a lion’s valor yet been known.”"]}, {"id": "A9.2.3", "lines": ["At once Sahm’s heart leapt up to hear the tale;", "He longed to see the child, and would not fail."]}, {"id": "A9.2.4", "lines": ["He left his army with its chief to lead,", "And took world-seasoned men of proven deed."]}, {"id": "A9.2.5", "lines": ["His love drew him toward the son of Zal;", "He led his company toward Zabul’s hall."]}, {"id": "A9.2.6", "lines": ["When Zal had heard the tidings, the koust beat;", "The earth turned ebony beneath their feet."]}, {"id": "A9.2.7", "lines": ["Then Zal and Mehrab, Kabul’s ruling lord,", "Rode out to welcome Sahm in one accord."]}, {"id": "A9.2.8", "lines": ["The signal sounded and a clamor grew;", "From town and village people gathered too."]}, {"id": "A9.2.9", "lines": ["The army stretched from mountain ridge to hill;", "Red shields and yellow ranked the valley still."]}, {"id": "A9.2.10", "lines": ["The Tazi steeds and elephants gave sound;", "For five full mil their thunder rolled around."]}, {"id": "A9.2.11", "lines": ["A mighty elephant with trappings gold", "Bore on its back a throne in royal mold."]}, {"id": "A9.2.12", "lines": ["Upon the golden throne sat Rostam, wide", "Of shoulder, cypress-tall, with warrior’s pride."]}, {"id": "A9.2.13", "lines": ["A bow was set within his powerful hand,", "A shield before him, firm at his command."]}, {"id": "A9.2.14", "lines": ["A crown above, a girdle round his waist,", "With shield, bow, arrows all before him placed."]}, {"id": "A9.2.15", "lines": ["When Sahm from far beheld the youthful sign,", "He drew his army up in double line."]}, {"id": "A9.2.16", "lines": ["Then Mehrab and Zal dismounted on the road,", "With aged chiefs whose years in silver showed."]}, {"id": "A9.2.17", "lines": ["Each laid his head upon the earth below,", "And blessings on brave Sahm began to flow."]}, {"id": "A9.2.18", "lines": ["Like springtime blossom Sahm’s face opened wide;", "He laughed to see the lion-cub in pride."]}, {"id": "A9.2.19", "lines": ["A lion’s cub enthroned for all to see", "Upon the elephant; Sahm laughed with glee."]}, {"id": "A9.2.20", "lines": ["He bade them bring the elephant, and gazed", "Again upon the child and crown, amazed."]}, {"id": "A9.2.21", "lines": ["Then valiant Sahm, in blessing, raised this prayer:", "“O mighty lion, live long, glad, and fair.”"]}, {"id": "A9.2.22", "lines": ["Then Rostam stepped and kissed the royal seat,", "And praised great Sahm in words both bold and sweet:"]}, {"id": "A9.2.23", "lines": ["“O Pahlevan of all the world, take pride;", "I am your branch, sprung from your root and side."]}, {"id": "A9.2.24", "lines": ["I am the servant of renowned Sahm’s name;", "Food, sleep, and idle rest are not my aim."]}, {"id": "A9.2.25", "lines": ["Give horse and saddle, jowshan, helmet strong;", "My navak shafts shall fly against the throng."]}, {"id": "A9.2.26", "lines": ["By the exalted Maker’s high command,", "My foes’ heads shall lie fallen where I stand."]}, {"id": "A9.2.27", "lines": ["My face resembles yours before my sight;", "May courage make me like you too in fight.”"]}, {"id": "A9.2.28", "lines": ["Then Rostam left the elephant; Sahm took his hand,", "And kissed his head and eyes before the band."]}, {"id": "A9.2.29", "lines": ["The elephants stood still; tabiras mute;", "No beast cried out, no horn gave loud salute."]}, {"id": "A9.2.30", "lines": ["They turned together toward the palace way;", "With talk and happiness they filled the day."]}, {"id": "A9.2.31", "lines": ["Through every palace golden thrones were laid;", "They sat to feast, with wine and joy displayed."]}, {"id": "A9.2.32", "lines": ["A month went by in pleasure and repose;", "No man for work his warrior’s girdle chose."]}, {"id": "A9.2.33", "lines": ["They drank their wine to music of the rud;", "Each sang in turn a song of joyful mood."]}, {"id": "A9.2.34", "lines": ["At one throne-corner Dastan sat, sedate;", "At the other Rostam bore his gorz’s weight."]}, {"id": "A9.2.35", "lines": ["Before them Sahm, the world-subduer, stayed,", "The Homa feather from his crown displayed."]}, {"id": "A9.2.36", "lines": ["Sahm gazed at Rostam, wonder in his eyes,", "And spoke the name of Yazdan in surprise."]}, {"id": "A9.2.37", "lines": ["He marked his arms, his shoulders, height and frame,", "His reed-thin waist, broad chest, and warrior’s mane."]}, {"id": "A9.2.38", "lines": ["His thighs were thick, like those a hiyun shows;", "A lion’s heart and tiger’s strength arose."]}, {"id": "A9.2.39", "lines": ["Such beauty, farr, and warrior bearing shone;", "No Pahlevan his equal could be known."]}, {"id": "A9.2.40", "lines": ["Then Sahm said, “Search a hundred generations;", "None will recall his like among the nations:"]}, {"id": "A9.2.41", "lines": ["A child brought living through his mother’s side,", "With such a wondrous remedy supplied."]}, {"id": "A9.2.42", "lines": ["A thousand blessings on the Simorgh’s name;", "For Yazdan showed her how the healing came."]}, {"id": "A9.2.43", "lines": ["Now in this happiness let wine be poured,", "And let the heart of sorrow break at board."]}, {"id": "A9.2.44", "lines": ["This world is but a lodging, coming, going;", "One grows old while another new is growing.”"]}, {"id": "A9.2.45", "lines": ["They reached for wine and soon were drunk with cheer;", "From Rostam turned to Dastan’s memory dear."]}, {"id": "A9.2.46", "lines": ["Mehrab drank wine till, everywhere he peered,", "No man but his own mighty self appeared."]}, {"id": "A9.2.47", "lines": ["He cried, “I fear no Zal or Sahm today,", "Nor crowned Shah’s farr that rules the world’s array!"]}, {"id": "A9.2.48", "lines": ["Give me but Rostam, Shabdiz, and my blade;", "What enemy would dare to make us afraid?"]}, {"id": "A9.2.49", "lines": ["No cloud shall cast its shadow on our might;", "No cloud above our heads shall cross our sight."]}, {"id": "A9.2.50", "lines": ["Zahhak’s old custom I shall bring to birth;", "My charger’s hoof shall turn to musk the earth."]}, {"id": "A9.2.51", "lines": ["Now I shall have the weapons made for him!”", "He spoke in jest, his wine-filled eyes grown dim."]}, {"id": "A9.2.52", "lines": ["At Mehrab’s words both Zal and Sahm laughed long;", "Their hearts took pleasure in his drunken song."]}, {"id": "A9.2.53", "lines": ["When Mehr began, on Ormozd’s opening day,", "Sahm chose his road and made to ride away."]}, {"id": "A9.2.54", "lines": ["Sahm made his preparations, took the road;", "For one full stage Zal close beside him rode."]}, {"id": "A9.2.55", "lines": ["Young Rostam on an elephant rode near,", "To bid Sahm farewell with loving cheer."]}, {"id": "A9.2.56", "lines": ["Then Sahm said, “Zal, my son, take heed from me:", "Above all things be just in your decree."]}, {"id": "A9.2.57", "lines": ["Keep loyalty to Shahs within your breast;", "Choose wisdom over wealth as what is best."]}, {"id": "A9.2.58", "lines": ["Throughout the year keep both your hands from ill;", "Each day seek Yazdan’s path with steadfast will."]}, {"id": "A9.2.59", "lines": ["Know that this world remains with no one here;", "Be one in public and when none are near."]}, {"id": "A9.2.60", "lines": ["Hold fast to this advice and do not stray;", "Set foot on nothing but the rightful way."]}, {"id": "A9.2.61", "lines": ["For in my heart I feel my time run low;", "The span before me shortens as I go.”"]}, {"id": "A9.2.62", "lines": ["He bade both Zal and Rostam his farewell:", "“Do not conceal the counsel that I tell.”"]}, {"id": "A9.2.63", "lines": ["From Zabul’s court the ringing bell was heard;", "From elephants the answering karnay stirred."]}, {"id": "A9.2.64", "lines": ["Sweet-speaking, modest-hearted, Sahm took way;", "Toward Bakhtar turned the seasoned chief that day."]}, {"id": "A9.2.65", "lines": ["Zal and young Rostam rode three stages more,", "Then turned in tears while Sahm pressed on before."]}, {"id": "A9.2.66", "lines": ["Zal led the troops to Sistan, homeward bound;", "With lion Rostam, wine and joy went round."]}, {"id": "A9.3.1", "lines": ["Once Rostam drank among his friends at ease,", "Within a garden bright beneath the trees."]}, {"id": "A9.3.2", "lines": ["The renowned men sat joyful in the place,", "And pleasure shone on every noble face."]}, {"id": "A9.3.3", "lines": ["They drank red wine from crystal cups until", "The wine rose hot and clouded thought and will."]}, {"id": "A9.3.4", "lines": ["Then Zal addressed his son before them all:", "“O sun-bright youth, prepare gifts for the hall."]}, {"id": "A9.3.5", "lines": ["Prepare rich robes to clothe each honored guest,", "And noble steeds for those of highest crest.”"]}, {"id": "A9.3.6", "lines": ["So Rostam opened treasure with free hand,", "And gave rich wealth at Zal’s direct command."]}, {"id": "A9.3.7", "lines": ["He gave adorned Tazi horses proud,", "Fit for the chiefs who stood within the crowd."]}, {"id": "A9.3.8", "lines": ["Each man received the wealth that was his share;", "Enriched, they left the garden free of care."]}, {"id": "A9.3.9", "lines": ["Then Zal withdrew to his shabestan away,", "While wine-filled Rostam sought his bed to stay."]}, {"id": "A9.3.10", "lines": ["He reached his chamber, heavy with the wine,", "And lay to rest, his senses in decline."]}, {"id": "A9.3.11", "lines": ["But suddenly a cry broke through the night:", "“The white elephant is loose; take flight!"]}, {"id": "A9.3.12", "lines": ["The sepahbod’s white elephant breaks free;", "It harms the people; none can make it flee!”"]}, {"id": "A9.3.13", "lines": ["At once fierce courage surged through Rostam’s frame;", "He seized Sahm’s gorz and toward the gateway came."]}, {"id": "A9.3.14", "lines": ["He strode toward the gate with fierce intent;", "The keepers barred the way before he went."]}, {"id": "A9.3.15", "lines": ["They cried, “We fear the sepahbod’s blame;", "How can we open and not bear the shame?"]}, {"id": "A9.3.16", "lines": ["The night is dark, the elephant runs free;", "To let you pass is not the proper decree.”"]}, {"id": "A9.3.17", "lines": ["At this fierce anger surged through Rostam’s frame;", "He struck one keeper hard, his wrath aflame."]}, {"id": "A9.3.18", "lines": ["His head beneath that blow became a ball;", "The others fled and left the gate and wall."]}, {"id": "A9.3.19", "lines": ["One gorz-stroke broke the fastening and chain;", "Like wind he passed beyond them to the plain."]}, {"id": "A9.3.20", "lines": ["The gorz across his shoulder, on he sped,", "Toward the roaring beast that loomed ahead."]}, {"id": "A9.3.21", "lines": ["It roared like Nile’s great sea throughout the night;", "A moving mountain thundered into sight."]}, {"id": "A9.3.22", "lines": ["The earth beneath that roaring mountain boiled;", "The nobles fled, their ordered ranks despoiled."]}, {"id": "A9.3.23", "lines": ["Around it fled the nobles in dismay,", "Like sheep before a wolf that scents its prey."]}, {"id": "A9.3.24", "lines": ["Then Rostam roared, a lion fierce and bold,", "And strode ahead; no trace of fear took hold."]}, {"id": "A9.3.25", "lines": ["The elephant saw Rostam and came on,", "A mountain charging before night was gone."]}, {"id": "A9.3.26", "lines": ["The elephant, enraged, surged forth to kill,", "Its trunk raised high with devastating will."]}, {"id": "A9.3.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam raised Sahm’s gorz above his head,", "And struck; the mountain-bodied beast bowed dead."]}, {"id": "A9.3.28", "lines": ["Its mountain-body bent beneath the stroke;", "The mighty frame beneath that iron broke."]}, {"id": "A9.3.29", "lines": ["Like Mount Bistoon it trembled at the blow,", "Then crashed upon the earth and was laid low."]}, {"id": "A9.3.30", "lines": ["One blow had felled the elephant outright;", "Rostam returned, his task complete that night."]}, {"id": "A9.3.31", "lines": ["He reached his chamber, laid him down to sleep,", "And weariness dissolved in slumber deep."]}, {"id": "A9.3.32", "lines": ["At dawn the sun rose like a lover’s face;", "Then news was carried swiftly to Zal’s place."]}, {"id": "A9.3.33", "lines": ["“One gorz-blow broke the creature’s mighty neck,", "And hurled its body down; a shattered wreck.”"]}, {"id": "A9.3.34", "lines": ["Zal cried, “Alas, that elephant was strong;", "Its Nile-sea roar had shaken armies long."]}, {"id": "A9.3.35", "lines": ["How many battle lines that drunken beast", "Had broken when its fury was released!"]}, {"id": "A9.3.36", "lines": ["Victorious though it was in many a fight,", "My Rostam has surpassed its vaunted might.”"]}, {"id": "A9.3.37", "lines": ["He called for Rostam; pride he could not hide,", "And kissed the child he summoned to his side."]}, {"id": "A9.3.38", "lines": ["“O lion’s cub, your claws have grown so fast;", "Your childhood strength has ripened, sure and vast."]}, {"id": "A9.3.39", "lines": ["In farr, in valor, stature, noble frame,", "No child your age can stand with equal claim."]}, {"id": "A9.3.40", "lines": ["But act before your rising fame is known;", "Avenge Nariman’s blood, which none atone."]}, {"id": "A9.3.41", "lines": ["Go forth to Sepand, where a fortress stands,", "A towering hold above surrounding lands."]}, {"id": "A9.3.42", "lines": ["Its crown is wrapped in cloud against the sky;", "Not even flying eagles pass it by."]}, {"id": "A9.3.43", "lines": ["Four farsang high its walls and towers ascend;", "Four farsang broad they stretch from end to end."]}, {"id": "A9.3.44", "lines": ["Within are greenery and running streams,", "Brocade and gold in wealth beyond men’s dreams."]}, {"id": "A9.3.45", "lines": ["There people, herds, and living creatures thrive;", "Within those walls all kinds of life survive."]}, {"id": "A9.3.46", "lines": ["Trees rise in number through the fertile ground;", "And every useful craft within is found."]}, {"id": "A9.3.47", "lines": ["Each fruit Yazdan created filled the field;", "The guarded fortress gave abundant yield."]}, {"id": "A9.3.48", "lines": ["No place like this has ever yet been seen,", "So rich within, so guarded, and so green."]}, {"id": "A9.3.49", "lines": ["But one road leads into that hidden place,", "A gate as high as heaven blocks its face."]}, {"id": "A9.3.50", "lines": ["Nariman rode there at Fereydoon’s command,", "And set his forces round that guarded land."]}, {"id": "A9.3.51", "lines": ["Without a pause he pressed the fortress sore;", "The struggle ceased not at the guarded door."]}, {"id": "A9.3.52", "lines": ["Now battle, guile, and magic arts he tried;", "Yet still the fortress all his means defied."]}, {"id": "A9.3.53", "lines": ["For more than one full year he held the plain,", "But all his arts and force were spent in vain."]}, {"id": "A9.3.54", "lines": ["At last a rock hurled down from that great wall", "Struck Nariman, and there they saw him fall."]}, {"id": "A9.3.55", "lines": ["The army, now without its chief, withdrew,", "And to the exalted Shah the tidings flew."]}, {"id": "A9.3.56", "lines": ["When Sahm was told, he wept in bitter grief;", "For one full week his mourning found no relief."]}, {"id": "A9.3.57", "lines": ["When seven days were done, he summoned all", "His troops, and marched on Sepand’s fortress wall."]}, {"id": "A9.3.58", "lines": ["He spread his army through the plain below,", "And ringed the fort so none could come or go."]}, {"id": "A9.3.59", "lines": ["For years and months he held the fortress round,", "Yet no way to its ramparts could be found."]}, {"id": "A9.3.60", "lines": ["None left the gate, none entered through the wall;", "Though years rolled by, no need arose at all."]}, {"id": "A9.3.61", "lines": ["Yet all those years they lacked not even straw;", "The siege revealed no hunger, need, or flaw."]}, {"id": "A9.3.62", "lines": ["At last Sahm turned away, his vengeance vain;", "His father’s blood still cried to him in pain."]}, {"id": "A9.3.63", "lines": ["Now is the time for cunning, spell, and art;", "Where strength has failed, let subtle craft take part."]}, {"id": "A9.3.64", "lines": ["Go with a caravan in merchant guise,", "So no watchman can read you with his eyes."]}, {"id": "A9.3.65", "lines": ["Once you are in, strike hard against that seed;", "Tear root and base away from those of evil deed."]}, {"id": "A9.3.66", "lines": ["Since no one there has heard your name before,", "You may pass through and reach the fortress core.”"]}, {"id": "A9.3.67", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “I hear and will obey;", "The cure shall soon be brought without delay.”"]}, {"id": "A9.3.68", "lines": ["Zal answered: “Son, attend to what I say;", "Receive my counsel and do not turn away."]}, {"id": "A9.3.69", "lines": ["Put on the garb the camel-drivers use;", "Bring camels from the plain to serve the ruse."]}, {"id": "A9.3.70", "lines": ["Take salt alone to sell within that land;", "Let nothing else be loaded by your hand."]}, {"id": "A9.3.71", "lines": ["For salt is precious in that guarded hold;", "No other ware is valued more than gold."]}, {"id": "A9.3.72", "lines": ["Their food has need of salt at every meal;", "High walls cannot provide what trade must deal."]}, {"id": "A9.3.73", "lines": ["When they behold those loads come into view,", "The fortress folk will rush to welcome you.”"]}, {"id": "A9.4.1", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, he set the work in train,", "As suited battle and a bold campaign."]}, {"id": "A9.4.2", "lines": ["Within the loads of salt his gorz concealed,", "The Pahlevan stood tall, his strength revealed."]}, {"id": "A9.4.3", "lines": ["Some kinsmen with him on the road he led,", "Alert and brave for what might lie ahead."]}, {"id": "A9.4.4", "lines": ["Their weapons in the camel-loads he stored;", "No watcher guessed what weapons lay aboard."]}, {"id": "A9.4.5", "lines": ["His lips were smiling at the ruse he knew;", "Toward Mount Sepand the caravan he drew."]}, {"id": "A9.4.6", "lines": ["When near the gates, a watchman marked their band,", "And ran uphill to tell the lord in command."]}, {"id": "A9.4.7", "lines": ["“A caravan approaches in a train;", "Full many camel-drivers lead the chain."]}, {"id": "A9.4.8", "lines": ["I think those camel-loads are salt alone;", "If you command, their purpose can be known.”"]}, {"id": "A9.4.9", "lines": ["The fortress lord sent out a man to race", "To seek the caravan-chief and learn his case."]}, {"id": "A9.4.10", "lines": ["“Go see exactly what their burdens hide;", "Return and tell me what the loads provide.”"]}, {"id": "A9.4.11", "lines": ["The envoy left the fort, and hastened down,", "And came to Rostam by the mountain crown."]}, {"id": "A9.4.12", "lines": ["“O caravan-chief, tell me what you bear;", "What secret wealth have you now brought to share?"]}, {"id": "A9.4.13", "lines": ["So we may tell our lord what you convey,", "And hear the words he sends us back this way.”"]}, {"id": "A9.4.14", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered, keeping counsel tight:", "“Our loads are salt alone, from left to right.”"]}, {"id": "A9.4.15", "lines": ["The envoy climbed back to the fortress door,", "And told the lord what merchandise they bore."]}, {"id": "A9.4.16", "lines": ["“A whole caravan has come beneath your wall;", "These worthy men bear salt and nothing else at all.”"]}, {"id": "A9.4.17", "lines": ["The chieftain rose; a smile lit up his face,", "And joy at once appeared within the place."]}, {"id": "A9.4.18", "lines": ["He ordered them to open wide the gate,", "And let the caravan pass with its freight."]}, {"id": "A9.4.19", "lines": ["When battle-seeking Rostam heard the word,", "From lower ground toward higher slopes they stirred."]}, {"id": "A9.4.20", "lines": ["When at the narrow gateway they drew near,", "They all came out to welcome him with cheer."]}, {"id": "A9.4.21", "lines": ["Before the fortress chief great Rostam came,", "He kissed the earth and blessed his royal name."]}, {"id": "A9.4.22", "lines": ["He brought him heaps of salt from camel-load,", "And blessings on the gathered people flowed."]}, {"id": "A9.4.23", "lines": ["The ruler said, “Live long beneath the skies,", "Like sun and moon that endlessly arise."]}, {"id": "A9.4.24", "lines": ["Your gift I take, and thanks I give to you;", "I see a noble, God-wise heart shine through.”"]}, {"id": "A9.4.25", "lines": ["The young man entered through the crowded bazaar;", "His camel-drivers followed close, not far."]}, {"id": "A9.4.26", "lines": ["From every side the townsfolk crowded near;", "Children and women, men, all gathered here."]}, {"id": "A9.4.27", "lines": ["One offered cloth, one gold and silver bright;", "They bought without a thought of fear or fright."]}, {"id": "A9.4.28", "lines": ["When night grew dark, swift-clawed Rostam prepared;", "His famous warriors armed, their purpose shared."]}, {"id": "A9.4.29", "lines": ["He sought the castellan within his hold;", "Behind him came his warriors, fierce and bold."]}, {"id": "A9.4.30", "lines": ["The castellan, forewarned, came forth in wrath;", "He grappled Rostam, barring up his path."]}, {"id": "A9.4.31", "lines": ["Tahamtan brought his gorz upon his head;", "You would have thought his trunk sank underground instead."]}, {"id": "A9.4.32", "lines": ["The fortress folk soon learned of Rostam’s raid;", "Against their hated foe they rushed arrayed."]}, {"id": "A9.4.33", "lines": ["The night was dark; bright sword-blades flashed and shone;", "The earth turned red as Badakhshan ruby-stone."]}, {"id": "A9.4.34", "lines": ["The clash grew fierce amid the waves of gore;", "Red twilight seemed from heaven to earth to pour."]}, {"id": "A9.4.35", "lines": ["With sword and gorz and kamand Rostam pressed,", "And tore the heads from every valiant crest."]}, {"id": "A9.4.36", "lines": ["When Sun rose from behind its hidden veil,", "From Thara to Thurayya light prevailed."]}, {"id": "A9.4.37", "lines": ["Of all that fortress band no man remained;", "Some had been killed, the rest by battle drained."]}, {"id": "A9.4.38", "lines": ["The warriors searched the fortress wall to wall,", "And killed whoever still survived the fall."]}, {"id": "A9.4.39", "lines": ["Then Tahamtan within that narrow place", "Beheld a granite house before his face."]}, {"id": "A9.4.40", "lines": ["An iron door was built with cunning art,", "By engineers made strong in every part."]}, {"id": "A9.4.41", "lines": ["One gorz-blow hurled the iron door away;", "Then Rostam stepped within without delay."]}, {"id": "A9.4.42", "lines": ["A lofty dome before his vision shone,", "With dinars filled from floor to highest stone."]}, {"id": "A9.4.43", "lines": ["At such a sight astonished Rostam stayed,", "And bit his lip at riches there displayed."]}, {"id": "A9.4.44", "lines": ["He said to the renowned chiefs of the band,", "“Who ever saw such riches in one land?"]}, {"id": "A9.4.45", "lines": ["No gold, I think, remains in any mine;", "No pearl remains beneath the ocean brine."]}, {"id": "A9.4.46", "lines": ["All gold, it seems, was carried to this place;", "And pearls were spread here through this guarded space.”"]}, {"id": "A9.5.1", "lines": ["Then Rostam wrote his father a full report", "Of all that passed within the mountain fort:"]}, {"id": "A9.5.2", "lines": ["“First praise to Him, Lord of the radiant Sun,", "Of snake and ant, whose will makes all things run;"]}, {"id": "A9.5.3", "lines": ["Who sets Nahid, Bahram, and Mehr to turn,", "And raised the firmament where star-fires burn."]}, {"id": "A9.5.4", "lines": ["Then blessings fall on Zal, the battle-wise,", "Zabul’s peerless Pahlevan in men’s eyes;"]}, {"id": "A9.5.5", "lines": ["The warriors’ refuge, Iran’s firmest stay,", "Who makes the Kayan star shine bright each day;"]}, {"id": "A9.5.6", "lines": ["Who seats the Shah and takes the crown away,", "Whose orders course like Sun and Moon, we say."]}, {"id": "A9.5.7", "lines": ["By your command I reached Mount Sepand’s crest,", "A peak against the vault of heaven pressed."]}, {"id": "A9.5.8", "lines": ["I reached its foot; at once a greeting sped,", "The mountain’s lord had sent the words I read."]}, {"id": "A9.5.9", "lines": ["By his command I ordered every part,", "And all came out according to my art."]}, {"id": "A9.5.10", "lines": ["That dark night with renowned men I fought,", "And in the fort no man one respite caught."]}, {"id": "A9.5.11", "lines": ["Some slain, some wounded, others fled away;", "Their arms and battle gear fell in disarray."]}, {"id": "A9.5.12", "lines": ["Five hundred thousand kharvar there I found,", "Raw silver, assayed gold in heaps around."]}, {"id": "A9.5.13", "lines": ["Of things to wear, to spread, to bear and take,", "Were goods of every kind and every make."]}, {"id": "A9.5.14", "lines": ["No one could count them, labor as he may,", "Through months of reckoning and day on day."]}, {"id": "A9.5.15", "lines": ["Now tell me what command you would decree;", "May bright your heart, your footsteps blessed be.”"]}, {"id": "A9.5.16", "lines": ["The courier sped like wind across the land,", "And placed the letter in the hero’s hand."]}, {"id": "A9.5.17", "lines": ["When Zal had read the letter through and through,", "He blessed renowned Rostam, brave and true."]}, {"id": "A9.5.18", "lines": ["The joyful news so brightened heart and face,", "It seemed his youth returned to take its place."]}, {"id": "A9.5.19", "lines": ["He then began a letter in reply,", "And filled its lines with thought that soared the sky,"]}, {"id": "A9.5.20", "lines": ["He opened first with praise of God Most High,", "Then wrote: “Your heart-opening note met my eye."]}, {"id": "A9.5.21", "lines": ["I read under Fortune’s conquering sign;", "For joy I scattered soul on every line."]}, {"id": "A9.5.22", "lines": ["Though still a child, you did a grown man’s deed,", "A worthy son, the flower of noble seed."]}, {"id": "A9.5.23", "lines": ["You brightened Nariman’s spirit with your fire,", "And burned his enemies beneath your ire."]}, {"id": "A9.5.24", "lines": ["A thousand thousand camels I dispatch,", "To bear the loads no smaller train could match."]}, {"id": "A9.5.25", "lines": ["When you have read, mount swiftly for the way;", "Without your face I sorrow every day."]}, {"id": "A9.5.26", "lines": ["Load choicest goods upon the camel train,", "Then burn the fort to answer Nariman’s pain.”"]}, {"id": "A9.5.27", "lines": ["When Rostam read the answer from his sire,", "His heart rejoiced and rose with fresh desire."]}, {"id": "A9.5.28", "lines": ["He chose the finest treasures he could find:", "Signets, swords, helmets, girdles of each kind;"]}, {"id": "A9.5.29", "lines": ["With pearls and royal jewels shining bright,", "And patterned Chinese brocade rich to sight."]}, {"id": "A9.5.30", "lines": ["He chose and sent these treasures on before,", "While loaded caravans moved from the store."]}, {"id": "A9.5.31", "lines": ["He set Mount Sepand burning with fierce fire;", "Its smoke rose up to heaven, ever higher."]}, {"id": "A9.5.32", "lines": ["Then joyful-hearted Rostam turned his rein,", "And like the driving wind crossed hill and plain."]}, {"id": "A9.5.33", "lines": ["When Nimruz’s Pahlevan heard Rostam near,", "The world-illuming chief returned in cheer."]}, {"id": "A9.5.34", "lines": ["For welcome every quarter they made fair;", "Rich ornaments adorned each street and square."]}, {"id": "A9.5.35", "lines": ["The karnay, cymbal, horn, and daray rang;", "Through every street the loud reception sang."]}, {"id": "A9.5.36", "lines": ["Then Rostam reached the palace of his sire,", "Dastan the son of Sahm, his heart afire."]}, {"id": "A9.5.37", "lines": ["He came to Rudabeh, bowed before her face,", "And laid his head in dust with reverent grace."]}, {"id": "A9.5.38", "lines": ["His mother kissed his shoulders and his breast,", "And poured her blessings on him without rest."]}, {"id": "A9.5.39", "lines": ["Then Zal embraced his son with deep delight,", "And ordered largesse scattered left and right."]}, {"id": "A9.6.1", "lines": ["Then Zal sent Sahm a letter of good cheer,", "And made the tale of Rostam’s deeds appear."]}, {"id": "A9.6.2", "lines": ["Of all the good and ill he told the whole,", "And laid the tale before that wise man’s soul."]}, {"id": "A9.6.3", "lines": ["With many precious gifts the letter came,", "To Sahm the Pahlevan of noble name."]}, {"id": "A9.6.4", "lines": ["When Sahm received the letter, joy arose;", "His face grew bright and bloomed just like a rose."]}, {"id": "A9.6.5", "lines": ["He made a feast like spring in full delight,", "And gave the courier robe and mount outright."]}, {"id": "A9.6.6", "lines": ["He spoke at length of Rostam and his fame,", "Then wrote his noble son and praised his name:"]}, {"id": "A9.6.7", "lines": ["“No wonder that a lion’s cub grows bold;", "Its lion nature cannot be controlled."]}, {"id": "A9.6.8", "lines": ["Take up a lion-cub still young and mild,", "Fresh from its birth, a wholly guileless child;"]}, {"id": "A9.6.9", "lines": ["Let some wise Mobad takes the cub to rear,", "And gently raises it, keeping humans near."]}, {"id": "A9.6.10", "lines": ["But when its teeth and growing strength appear,", "Its keeper grows afraid and keeps well clear."]}, {"id": "A9.6.11", "lines": ["Though never once it knew its mother’s breast,", "Its father’s nature wakes within its chest."]}, {"id": "A9.6.12", "lines": ["So famed Rostam has courage fierce and true;", "No wonder; he has sprung, my son, from you."]}, {"id": "A9.6.13", "lines": ["When valor calls and battle fills the plain,", "The lion’s blood within him will not wane.”"]}, {"id": "A9.6.14", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, called the courier near,", "And placed it in his hand to bear from here."]}, {"id": "A9.6.15", "lines": ["The messenger reached Zal with robe of state,", "And brought the famous letter to his gate."]}, {"id": "A9.6.16", "lines": ["Zal’s heart rejoiced at what the youth had done;", "He blessed the deeds of his triumphant son."]}, {"id": "A9.6.17", "lines": ["The world through Rostam filled with hope and cheer,", "From earth’s broad face to Aries in the sphere."]}, {"id": "A9.6.18", "lines": ["Now let the tale bring Manuchehr to view,", "That kindly Shah whose heart was firm and true."]}, {"id": "A9.6.19", "lines": ["Hear now the counsel that his son held dear,", "When that just Shah felt death itself draw near."]}, {"id": "A9.7.1", "lines": ["Now Manuchehr, his sixty years twice told,", "Prepared to leave this world and loose his hold."]}, {"id": "A9.7.2", "lines": ["The astrologers had read the circling sky,", "And saw his royal farr grow faint and die:"]}, {"id": "A9.7.3", "lines": ["“Your time has come to leave this dwelling here;", "Perhaps with Yazdan better days draw near."]}, {"id": "A9.7.4", "lines": ["Prepare your road before the final day;", "Beneath the clay your mortal frame must stay.”"]}, {"id": "A9.7.5", "lines": ["The Shah heard them and changed the court’s array,", "And called his lords to hear him and obey."]}, {"id": "A9.7.6", "lines": ["He called the Mobadan and sages near,", "And laid his heart’s deep secrets open clear."]}, {"id": "A9.7.7", "lines": ["Then Nohzar came before his father’s sight,", "And heard abundant counsel, grave and right:"]}, {"id": "A9.7.8", "lines": ["“This throne is nothing more than spell and wind;", "Do not forever fasten heart and mind."]}, {"id": "A9.7.9", "lines": ["Through twice sixty years I bore the strain,", "And girded up my loins through grief and pain."]}, {"id": "A9.7.10", "lines": ["Yet much delight and heart’s desire I knew,", "And faced my enemies when battle grew."]}, {"id": "A9.7.11", "lines": ["I bore the farr that Fereydoon passed down,", "His counsel turned each loss and grief around."]}, {"id": "A9.7.12", "lines": ["I faced fierce Salm and Tur to claim the debt", "Of great Iraj, whose blood cried vengeance yet."]}, {"id": "A9.7.13", "lines": ["I cleansed the world of much that stained its face,", "And built strongholds and cities in their place."]}, {"id": "A9.7.14", "lines": ["And now it seems I never saw this earth;", "The count of all those years has lost its worth."]}, {"id": "A9.7.15", "lines": ["A tree whose fruit and leaves grow bitter still;", "What worth has life that bears such bitter ill?"]}, {"id": "A9.7.16", "lines": ["Now after all this labor, grief, and pain,", "I give you throne and treasure for your reign."]}, {"id": "A9.7.17", "lines": ["As Fereydoon placed this crown in my command,", "I place the tested crown now in your hand."]}, {"id": "A9.7.18", "lines": ["Whatever joy you take will pass away;", "You too must leave this dwelling on your day."]}, {"id": "A9.7.19", "lines": ["One thing from you shall linger through the years:", "The sign you leave when all else disappears."]}, {"id": "A9.7.20", "lines": ["So leave behind a name that earns men’s praise;", "Let blessing be the monument you raise."]}, {"id": "A9.7.21", "lines": ["From spotless lineage comes faith made pure;", "Through rightful belief sound judgment stands secure."]}, {"id": "A9.7.22", "lines": ["Turn not away from Yazdan’s holy way;", "His path makes judgment clear from day to day."]}, {"id": "A9.7.23", "lines": ["A new decree shall rise throughout the earth;", "A different dispensation shall have birth."]}, {"id": "A9.7.24", "lines": ["Then Moses as a prophet shall appear,", "And from the western land his voice be clear."]}, {"id": "A9.7.25", "lines": ["Do not oppose him when his summons rings;", "Believe in him; the faith of Yazdan he brings."]}, {"id": "A9.7.26", "lines": ["Never forsake the road that Yazdan showed;", "For good and ill from Him alike have flowed."]}, {"id": "A9.7.27", "lines": ["Then from the Turks an army shall arise,", "And Iran’s royal throne shall be their prize."]}, {"id": "A9.7.28", "lines": ["Hard trials will come that tax both heart and wit;", "Be sometimes wolf, sometimes a sheep when fit."]}, {"id": "A9.7.29", "lines": ["From Pashang’s son shall bitter harm be bred;", "From Turan danger gather overhead."]}, {"id": "A9.7.30", "lines": ["When difficult judgment comes upon you all,", "Seek Sahm and Zal; upon their aid then call."]}, {"id": "A9.7.31", "lines": ["From Zal’s own line this new-grown tree has sprung;", "Its branch and warrior’s mane are still but young."]}, {"id": "A9.7.32", "lines": ["Through him shall Turan’s vaunted glory break;", "He shall arise, avenger for your sake.”"]}, {"id": "A9.7.33", "lines": ["As thus he spoke, the tears began to flow;", "Down Manuchehr’s face they streamed in bitter woe."]}, {"id": "A9.7.34", "lines": ["And Nohzar wept before his father’s eyes;", "His bitter grief broke forth in mournful cries."]}, {"id": "A9.7.35", "lines": ["The Shah had known no sickness, hurt, or pain;", "No illness ever weakened heart or brain."]}, {"id": "A9.7.36", "lines": ["He closed his Kayanian eyes; his breath grew cold,", "He withered, and his mortal tale was told."]}, {"id": "A9.7.37", "lines": ["So passed the famous Shah from mortal view;", "His counsel lived, a memorial firm and true."]}]}, {"id": "B1", "title": "The Crisis after Manuchehr", "summary": "14 sections · 636 couplets", "path": "/poem/b1/", "couplets": [{"id": "B1.1.1", "lines": ["The mourning passed; Nohzar assumed the throne,", "Toward Saturn’s height the Kayanian crown shone."]}, {"id": "B1.1.2", "lines": ["He sat upon Manuchehr’s royal seat,", "And scattered dirhams, dinars at men’s feet."]}, {"id": "B1.1.3", "lines": ["The nobles bowed with faces to the ground,", "And pledged their hearts with loyalty profound:"]}, {"id": "B1.1.4", "lines": ["“We are your servants, bound to you in trust,", "Our eyes and souls lie faithful in the dust.”"]}, {"id": "B1.1.5", "lines": ["But little time had passed before his heart", "From justice and his father’s path would part."]}, {"id": "B1.1.6", "lines": ["A clamor rose, and day by day the land", "Grew old beneath the new Shah’s ruling hand."]}, {"id": "B1.1.7", "lines": ["He cast aside the customs of his sire,", "And met the Mobadan and radan with ire."]}, {"id": "B1.1.8", "lines": ["The path of humaneness he held in scorn;", "To treasure and to dinars heart was sworn."]}, {"id": "B1.1.9", "lines": ["The peasants turned to soldiers in the land;", "The warriors reached for kingship with bold hand."]}, {"id": "B1.1.10", "lines": ["From every province cries of tumult came;", "The world grew troubled by the new Shah’s name."]}, {"id": "B1.1.11", "lines": ["The frightened Shah wrote Sahm without delay,", "In Sagzar, Mazandaran far away:"]}, {"id": "B1.1.12", "lines": ["“First praise Yazdan of Nahid, Bahram, Sun,", "Before whose will the high and low are one;"]}, {"id": "B1.1.13", "lines": ["Who shaped alike the elephant and ant;", "No task is hard for Him, no power is scant."]}, {"id": "B1.1.14", "lines": ["The hard and easy bend to what He wills;", "Each creature bows, and all His word fulfills."]}, {"id": "B1.1.15", "lines": ["May mercy bless Manuchehr’s noble soul,", "From Him whose Sun and Moon obey control."]}, {"id": "B1.1.16", "lines": ["And may His blessings fall on you like rain,", "From cloud on cloud across the field and plain."]}, {"id": "B1.1.17", "lines": ["O world-tried Pahlevan, approved in fight,", "May heart and wisdom flourish in the light."]}, {"id": "B1.1.18", "lines": ["May sorrow never settle in your breast;", "Your spirit free from pain, your judgment blest."]}, {"id": "B1.1.19", "lines": ["Until my father closed his eyes in death,", "He spoke of Sahm until his final breath."]}, {"id": "B1.1.20", "lines": ["You were his Pahlevan, his faithful friend;", "On you my throne and kingdom now depend."]}, {"id": "B1.1.21", "lines": ["You guarded Iran while he bore command,", "And kept the crown secure throughout the land."]}, {"id": "B1.1.22", "lines": ["Now take the gorz of vengeance, strike with might,", "Or crown and throne will vanish from our sight.”"]}, {"id": "B1.1.23", "lines": ["When Sahm had read, a cold sigh left his breast;", "The troubled state of Iran gave no rest."]}, {"id": "B1.1.24", "lines": ["At cockcrow, horn and koust were loudly heard;", "From Gorgasaran all his army stirred."]}, {"id": "B1.1.25", "lines": ["So vast the ranks rolled onward over lea,", "Beside them small appeared the verdant sea."]}, {"id": "B1.1.26", "lines": ["Iran’s great chiefs came out on foot to meet,", "And laid their grief before him at his feet:"]}, {"id": "B1.1.27", "lines": ["“Nohzar has turned from wisdom’s ancient way,", "And drives the land toward ruin and decay."]}, {"id": "B1.1.28", "lines": ["His wakeful fortune sleeps; his glory fades,", "The god-bestowed farr withdraws into the shades."]}, {"id": "B1.1.29", "lines": ["If you would take the crown and royal seat,", "The realm beneath your hand would rise complete."]}, {"id": "B1.1.30", "lines": ["We all would serve you, faithful to your claim,", "And bind our lives and honor to your name.”"]}, {"id": "B1.1.31", "lines": ["But Sahm replied: “Speak not such words,” he said;", "“How could the Maker bless so false a tread?"]}, {"id": "B1.1.32", "lines": ["Who dares pronounce that claim upon this earth", "While Nohzar lives, of Kayanian birth?"]}, {"id": "B1.1.33", "lines": ["If Manuchehr’s own daughter ruled instead,", "The dust before her feet would be my bed."]}, {"id": "B1.1.34", "lines": ["His fault is brief; it is not past all cure;", "The rust has touched, but scouring makes it pure."]}, {"id": "B1.1.35", "lines": ["I shall restore his God-bestowed farr bright,", "And make the world once more receive his light."]}, {"id": "B1.1.36", "lines": ["Manuchehr’s dust shall be my royal seat;", "Nohzar’s horse-dust my crown beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "B1.1.37", "lines": ["I shall give Nohzar counsel that serves well,", "And turn his heart from folly’s crooked spell."]}, {"id": "B1.1.38", "lines": ["Go, turn from what has passed and make amends;", "Renew your bond with Shah and loyal friends."]}, {"id": "B1.1.39", "lines": ["If Shah and Maker will not pardon you,", "Their wrath and fire beyond this world are due.”"]}, {"id": "B1.1.40", "lines": ["The chiefs repented, bowed with humbled will,", "And pledged allegiance to their sovereign still."]}, {"id": "B1.1.41", "lines": ["Where Sahm advanced, the land grew young, reborn,", "Renewed in order, to allegiance sworn."]}, {"id": "B1.1.42", "lines": ["He reached the court and kissed the royal ground,", "Before the Shah, while all the chiefs stood round."]}, {"id": "B1.1.43", "lines": ["The Shah descended, clasped him with delight,", "And seated Sahm beside him in men’s sight."]}, {"id": "B1.1.44", "lines": ["He questioned Sahm and honored him as guest;", "Then joy returned, and gladdened every breast."]}, {"id": "B1.1.45", "lines": ["A week with rud and wine they passed in cheer,", "Till former grief no longer lingered near."]}, {"id": "B1.1.46", "lines": ["The nobles came and offered penitence,", "And bowed before his royal eminence."]}, {"id": "B1.1.47", "lines": ["From every land came tribute, tax, and gold;", "For fear of Sahm, obedience took hold."]}, {"id": "B1.1.48", "lines": ["Nohzar again sat shining on the throne,", "With farr restored and peace once more his own."]}, {"id": "B1.1.49", "lines": ["Then Sahm, as servant and adviser, stayed,", "And opened counsel’s door with words well weighed."]}, {"id": "B1.1.50", "lines": ["He spoke of Fereydoon and Hushang’s reign,", "Of kings whose justice left the world no stain;"]}, {"id": "B1.1.51", "lines": ["Of Manuchehr, whose generous aid was sure,", "Whose justice kept both high and low secure."]}, {"id": "B1.1.52", "lines": ["By justice and by bounty they were known;", "No tyrant’s path could draw them from their own."]}, {"id": "B1.1.53", "lines": ["He turned Nohzar from crookedness to right,", "And taught the Shah to rule by justice’s light."]}, {"id": "B1.1.54", "lines": ["Nohzar accepted all that Sahm advised,", "And ruled as that world-tested chief devised."]}, {"id": "B1.1.55", "lines": ["He warmed the nobles’ hearts toward Nohzar’s name,", "And bound their loyalty to serve his claim."]}, {"id": "B1.1.56", "lines": ["He set the root of justice firm and deep,", "And taught the court due reverence to keep."]}, {"id": "B1.1.57", "lines": ["When all that needed saying had been said,", "The Pahlevan sought leave to ride ahead."]}, {"id": "B1.1.58", "lines": ["The Shah bestowed a robe of honor fair,", "And gave a royal throne of workmanship rare."]}, {"id": "B1.1.59", "lines": ["A crown and signet ring of royal state,", "With servants for his train beyond the gate."]}, {"id": "B1.1.60", "lines": ["And horses fitted out with golden gear,", "Fit for the chief whom all the realm held dear."]}, {"id": "B1.1.61", "lines": ["Two golden goblets filled with jewels red", "Were added to the gifts before he sped."]}, {"id": "B1.1.62", "lines": ["Thus honored, Sahm took leave with heart content;", "From Nohzar’s court the Pahlevan then went."]}, {"id": "B1.1.63", "lines": ["Toward Mazandaran then Sahm took his way;", "His spreading ranks concealed the plain that day."]}, {"id": "B1.1.64", "lines": ["Some time went by; the settled order stayed,", "And for a while the realm its calm displayed."]}, {"id": "B1.1.65", "lines": ["Yet turning heaven, as it wheeled above,", "Held out no peace, and gave Nohzar no love."]}, {"id": "B1.2.1", "lines": ["When word arrived that Manuchehr was dead,", "And Nohzar’s rule had faltered in his stead,"]}, {"id": "B1.2.2", "lines": ["The news through Turan’s army swiftly stirred,", "And Pashang, lord of Turan, heard the word."]}, {"id": "B1.2.3", "lines": ["Then thoughts of war against Iran arose;", "He saw the hour to strike his ancient foes."]}, {"id": "B1.2.4", "lines": ["He thought of Zadeshm, his father of old,", "And sighed for Tur, whose vengeance still lay cold."]}, {"id": "B1.2.5", "lines": ["He weighed Manuchehr’s throne, his realm and might,", "His chiefs and champions proven in the fight."]}, {"id": "B1.2.6", "lines": ["He called the famous men from every side,", "The army’s grandees, proven, battle-tried:"]}, {"id": "B1.2.7", "lines": ["Aghriras came, with Barman, strong of hand;", "Garsivaz too, and Kulbad joined the band."]}, {"id": "B1.2.8", "lines": ["And Viseh, quick of claw, came to the king,", "Sepahbod of the troops Pashang could bring."]}, {"id": "B1.2.9", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab, his son, was summoned near,", "Who came with haste, his spirit sharp and clear."]}, {"id": "B1.2.10", "lines": ["He spoke of Tur and Salm: “Revenge,” he said,", "“Should not beneath the garment hide its head."]}, {"id": "B1.2.11", "lines": ["No thinking man can fail to understand", "What wrongs the Iranians worked against our band."]}, {"id": "B1.2.12", "lines": ["The Iranians girded all their loins for ill;", "Against us every heart was bent in will."]}, {"id": "B1.2.13", "lines": ["Today is time for vengeance, fierce and near;", "Wash from your face the blood of every tear."]}, {"id": "B1.2.14", "lines": ["What say you now? Speak plainly, each and all:", "Give counsel fit before we sound the call.”"]}, {"id": "B1.2.15", "lines": ["His father’s words made Afrasiab’s brain burn;", "From rest and food and sleep his thoughts would turn."]}, {"id": "B1.2.16", "lines": ["He came before his father, girded fast,", "His heart with ancient vengeance overcast:"]}, {"id": "B1.2.17", "lines": ["“I am well fitted for the lions’ fray;", "Iran’s sepahbod I can match today."]}, {"id": "B1.2.18", "lines": ["Had Zadeshm raised his sword when young and strong,", "He had not left the world in shame and wrong."]}, {"id": "B1.2.19", "lines": ["Had he for vengeance bound his battle-belt,", "Iran beneath his mastery had knelt."]}, {"id": "B1.2.20", "lines": ["What Zadeshm left half-finished, I will bear:", "Revenge, and war, and kimiya, I dare."]}, {"id": "B1.2.21", "lines": ["My sharpened sword shall open every way;", "My hour of rising up has come to stay.”"]}, {"id": "B1.2.22", "lines": ["Hot haste ran through old Pashang’s royal frame", "When he beheld his son of towering fame."]}, {"id": "B1.2.23", "lines": ["A lion’s chest and arms, an elephant’s might;", "His shadow stretched for several mil in sight."]}, {"id": "B1.2.24", "lines": ["His tongue a cutting sword, his heart a sea,", "His hand a rain-cloud pouring bounty free."]}, {"id": "B1.2.25", "lines": ["Then Pashang said, “Let battle now begin;", "Lead all my troops and seek the realm to win."]}, {"id": "B1.2.26", "lines": ["A father blessed with such a worthy son", "May lift his head beneath the shining sun."]}, {"id": "B1.2.27", "lines": ["For when his days have passed and life is done,", "The son preserves the glory he has won.”"]}, {"id": "B1.2.28", "lines": ["Afrasiab, inflamed with wrath and pride,", "Left Pashang’s presence, vengeance as his guide."]}, {"id": "B1.2.29", "lines": ["Then opened every treasury door wide;", "He paid and armed the troops on every side."]}, {"id": "B1.2.30", "lines": ["When all was ready for the coming fray,", "Aghriras entered, thoughtful in his way."]}, {"id": "B1.2.31", "lines": ["Reflection ever was his chosen art;", "Sound judgment was the habit of his heart."]}, {"id": "B1.2.32", "lines": ["He said: “My father, tried in battle long,", "Among the Turks your valor stands most strong."]}, {"id": "B1.2.33", "lines": ["Though Manuchehr has vanished from the field,", "Sahm, son of Nariman, remains their shield."]}, {"id": "B1.2.34", "lines": ["And Keshvad stands with Gharan, battle-bred,", "With other famous chiefs whom warriors dread."]}, {"id": "B1.2.35", "lines": ["You know what Salm and mighty Tur endured", "From that old wolf whose sword their doom ensured."]}, {"id": "B1.2.36", "lines": ["Your father Zadeshm, Turan’s king of might,", "His helmet brushed the sphere and Moon in flight."]}, {"id": "B1.2.37", "lines": ["He never opened talk of vengeance then,", "Nor read a blood-debt letter before men."]}, {"id": "B1.2.38", "lines": ["It would be wiser not to answer force,", "Lest this revolt spread wider in its course.”"]}, {"id": "B1.2.39", "lines": ["Pashang replied: “Afrasiab in the chase", "Is lion; war-elephant in battle’s place."]}, {"id": "B1.2.40", "lines": ["Go with him; counsel every deed he tries;", "Let wisdom in each matter guide your eyes."]}, {"id": "B1.2.41", "lines": ["A grandson who lets grandfather’s blood sleep", "No rightful claim upon his line can keep."]}, {"id": "B1.2.42", "lines": ["When clouds have shed their burden from the sky,", "And rain has soaked the wilderness nearby;"]}, {"id": "B1.2.43", "lines": ["When mountain, plain are pasture for the steed,", "And grass shall grow where warriors’ manes now bleed;"]}, {"id": "B1.2.44", "lines": ["When all the world grows green with sprouting grain,", "Pitch then your royal pavilion on the plain."]}, {"id": "B1.2.45", "lines": ["Drive all the army toward Amol with cheer,", "Ride over grass and flowers bright and clear."]}, {"id": "B1.2.46", "lines": ["Put Dehestan and Gorgan under heel;", "Let waters run blood-ruby beneath steel."]}, {"id": "B1.2.47", "lines": ["From there Manuchehr once in vengeance rode,", "Toward Tur to claim the blood his lineage owed."]}, {"id": "B1.2.48", "lines": ["From there his army like a black cloud came;", "Now raise such dust against them in our name."]}, {"id": "B1.2.49", "lines": ["Manuchehr once was Iran’s army’s stay,", "And through him throne and crown shone bright each day."]}, {"id": "B1.2.50", "lines": ["Now he is gone; what fear can Iran bring?", "Young Nohzar is a raw and callow king."]}, {"id": "B1.2.51", "lines": ["Now battle Gharan and brave Garshasp too;", "These are the chiefs who wait in arms for you."]}, {"id": "B1.2.52", "lines": ["Perhaps upon the field of vengeance fought,", "Those two Iranian chiefs may yet be caught."]}, {"id": "B1.2.53", "lines": ["Make glad the souls of all our fathers dead,", "Fill hostile hearts with fire and burning dread.”"]}, {"id": "B1.2.54", "lines": ["He answered, thirsting for a warrior’s name:", "“In streams shall blood repay our ancient shame.”"]}, {"id": "B1.3.1", "lines": ["When spring laid silk of green across the plain,", "Turan’s warriors girded for campaign."]}, {"id": "B1.3.2", "lines": ["From Turan and from Chin their armies streamed,", "With eastern gorz-men through the war ranks gleamed."]}, {"id": "B1.3.3", "lines": ["No center marked it, no far edge was known,", "Yet Nohzar’s youthful fortune now had flown."]}, {"id": "B1.3.4", "lines": ["When Turan’s army to the Jihun drew near,", "The news soon reached King Nohzar’s waiting ear."]}, {"id": "B1.3.5", "lines": ["The Shah’s whole army left the palace gate,", "And crossed the open plain in martial state."]}, {"id": "B1.3.6", "lines": ["Toward Dehestan they turned in war array;", "Gharan the battle-seeker led the way."]}, {"id": "B1.3.7", "lines": ["Behind him rode King Nohzar with his train,", "And all the world rang loud with war’s refrain."]}, {"id": "B1.3.8", "lines": ["When near Dehestan all the army came,", "You would think the Sun itself had lost its flame."]}, {"id": "B1.3.9", "lines": ["They raised Nohzar’s pavilion on the plain,", "Before the fortress where his troops would remain."]}, {"id": "B1.3.10", "lines": ["At Dehestan the battle lines were made,", "And soon fresh orders through the camp were laid."]}, {"id": "B1.3.11", "lines": ["For Afrasiab, now on Iran’s ground,", "Chose two great chiefs from warriors renowned."]}, {"id": "B1.3.12", "lines": ["Shamasas, Khazarvan, chiefs of command,", "Received picked cavalry from his own hand."]}, {"id": "B1.3.13", "lines": ["Some thirty thousand warriors formed array,", "All fit for battle, rode at once away."]}, {"id": "B1.3.14", "lines": ["Toward Zabulistan then they turned their rein,", "For vengeance against Dastan drove the train."]}, {"id": "B1.3.15", "lines": ["News came that Sahm, Nariman’s son, was dead,", "And Zal was building him a tomb instead."]}, {"id": "B1.3.16", "lines": ["Afrasiab rejoiced at news so bright;", "His fortune woke from sleep before his sight."]}, {"id": "B1.3.17", "lines": ["He came to Dehestan across the plain,", "And raised his tent confronting Nohzar’s train."]}, {"id": "B1.3.18", "lines": ["Who could have numbered all that vast array?", "Four hundred thousand filled the field that day."]}, {"id": "B1.3.19", "lines": ["The sand and stone seemed boiling where they massed;", "Like ants and locusts through the wilds they passed."]}, {"id": "B1.3.20", "lines": ["With Nohzar, one hundred forty thousand strong,", "His mounted warriors formed a battle throng."]}, {"id": "B1.3.21", "lines": ["Afrasiab surveyed his ranks by night;", "He called a swift hiyun, prepared for flight."]}, {"id": "B1.3.22", "lines": ["He wrote to Pashang: “Fortune comes to hand;", "What we have sought now answers our command."]}, {"id": "B1.3.23", "lines": ["If Nohzar’s army breaks beneath our feet,", "They are our quarry, trampled in defeat."]}, {"id": "B1.3.24", "lines": ["And Sahm has followed Manuchehr in death;", "No more can he ride out with living breath."]}, {"id": "B1.3.25", "lines": ["In Iran Sahm alone inspired my fear;", "Now he is gone, the road to vengeance clear."]}, {"id": "B1.3.26", "lines": ["Old Zal now builds his father’s tomb and weeps;", "No foot or wing for war the mourner keeps."]}, {"id": "B1.3.27", "lines": ["By now Shamasas sits in Nimruz crowned,", "With world-illuming splendor spread around."]}, {"id": "B1.3.28", "lines": ["In every task, the proper moment choose;", "A wise and loyal friend’s advice then use."]}, {"id": "B1.3.29", "lines": ["If when the moment comes a man delays,", "No equal chance returns in later days.”"]}, {"id": "B1.3.30", "lines": ["The swift hiyun seemed winged across the night,", "And reached the lord whose farr shone clear and bright."]}, {"id": "B1.4.1", "lines": ["At dawn the vanguard reached Dehestan’s plain,", "As morning raised its head from mountain chain."]}, {"id": "B1.4.2", "lines": ["The armies pitched camp two farsangs apart,", "Each side prepared for war with hardened heart."]}, {"id": "B1.4.3", "lines": ["A Turk named Barman rode to scout the field,", "Who roused the sleeping brave to sword and shield."]}, {"id": "B1.4.4", "lines": ["He marked their lines, their tents, their full array,", "Then rode to Afrasiab without delay:"]}, {"id": "B1.4.5", "lines": ["He told him all he saw throughout the ground,", "Nohzar’s pavilion with the troops around."]}, {"id": "B1.4.6", "lines": ["“How long must all our strength remain unknown?", "Let me go forth and face their ranks alone."]}, {"id": "B1.4.7", "lines": ["I will meet them as a lion meets its prey,", "And show them who commands the field today."]}, {"id": "B1.4.8", "lines": ["They shall behold the prowess of my hand,", "And name no other champion in the land.”"]}, {"id": "B1.4.9", "lines": ["But wise Aghriras spoke with guarded care:", "“If harm should come to Barman, chiefs despair."]}, {"id": "B1.4.10", "lines": ["Our chiefs would falter, courage would grow weak;", "Choose one unknown; no famous man we seek."]}, {"id": "B1.4.11", "lines": ["Then loss would not obstruct the course we take,", "Nor make us bite our fingers for his sake.”"]}, {"id": "B1.4.12", "lines": ["At this Afrasiab’s anger filled his breast;", "He turned to Barman with a sharp behest:"]}, {"id": "B1.4.13", "lines": ["“Put on your jowshan, string your bow, and go;", "Stand proud; no finger-biting shall we know.”"]}, {"id": "B1.4.14", "lines": ["Then Barman rode and loudly gave his cry:", "“Who in Nohzar’s ranks will dare reply?”"]}, {"id": "B1.4.15", "lines": ["Gharan looked round upon the gathered band,", "But none stepped forth to meet the bold demand."]}, {"id": "B1.4.16", "lines": ["Save aged Qobad, valiant, stern, and tried,", "Who calmly answered, courage at his side."]}, {"id": "B1.4.17", "lines": ["Gharan was grieved to hear his brother speak,", "And tears of anger marked his troubled cheek."]}, {"id": "B1.4.18", "lines": ["“With all these youths to face the battle’s strain,", "Must one old man ride out while they remain?"]}, {"id": "B1.4.19", "lines": ["Your years have reached the time to leave the field;", "Do not confront this youth with sword and shield."]}, {"id": "B1.4.20", "lines": ["Look at the youth who waits across the plain;", "His strength is fresh, still free of age and pain."]}, {"id": "B1.4.21", "lines": ["Young Barman rides with lion-hearted pride,", "His strength at full, and fortune at his side."]}, {"id": "B1.4.22", "lines": ["His head is lifted toward the shining Sun;", "Do not stake age against so young a one."]}, {"id": "B1.4.23", "lines": ["You are the Shah’s support, his guiding mind;", "If you should fall, despair would strike our kind."]}, {"id": "B1.4.24", "lines": ["If blood should stain your hair of ancient white,", "And turn it ruby-red before our sight,"]}, {"id": "B1.4.25", "lines": ["Despair will seize the warriors in the field;", "Defeat will come, and loyal hearts will yield.”"]}, {"id": "B1.4.26", "lines": ["Qobad replied: “The turning sphere has weighed", "The share of life that destiny has made."]}, {"id": "B1.4.27", "lines": ["The body’s portion is the hand of death;", "The warrior’s head wears steel until last breath."]}, {"id": "B1.4.28", "lines": ["The body’s fate is written: it must die;", "No living soul can pass that sentence by."]}, {"id": "B1.4.29", "lines": ["Through Manuchehr’s auspicious reign till now,", "Through toil and hardship I have bent my brow."]}, {"id": "B1.4.30", "lines": ["None enters heaven living from this earth;", "Death hunts us all from hour of mortal birth."]}, {"id": "B1.4.31", "lines": ["One falls in battle, pierced by sword or spear;", "Another dies when quiet death draws near."]}, {"id": "B1.4.32", "lines": ["The fallen body feeds the vulture’s maw,", "Or lions rend it underneath their claw."]}, {"id": "B1.4.33", "lines": ["His head is claimed by spear and cutting blade;", "Such is the warrior’s due when life must fade."]}, {"id": "B1.4.34", "lines": ["Since all must go, why dread the final call?", "My brother Gharan lives, both strong and tall."]}, {"id": "B1.4.35", "lines": ["On him our house and all our hopes depend;", "Prepare my rest when I have reached my end."]}, {"id": "B1.4.36", "lines": ["Prepare a royal tomb to be my bed;", "With camphor, musk, rosewater, dress my head."]}, {"id": "B1.4.37", "lines": ["Then lay my body down in endless rest;", "With Yazdan live secure, serene and blessed.”"]}, {"id": "B1.4.38", "lines": ["He spoke, then seized his spear and charged ahead,", "Like a drunken elephant by fury fed."]}, {"id": "B1.4.39", "lines": ["Barman cried out: “Time sends your head my way;", "You should have stayed, for death has come today.”"]}, {"id": "B1.4.40", "lines": ["Qobad replied: “The world has dealt me true;", "A man dies only when his hour is due.”"]}, {"id": "B1.4.41", "lines": ["He spurred on Shabdiz, gave his heart no rest,", "And drove at Barman, eager for the test."]}, {"id": "B1.4.42", "lines": ["They clashed from dawn till shadows stretched in length,", "Each tested all his skill and hardened strength."]}, {"id": "B1.4.43", "lines": ["At last a dart from Barman struck its mark,", "And pierced Qobad, that lion old and stark."]}, {"id": "B1.4.44", "lines": ["The weapon struck him by the hip and waist,", "And burst the fastening where his belt was braced."]}, {"id": "B1.4.45", "lines": ["Headfirst from Shabdiz down to earth he went,", "And death fulfilled the fate that heaven sent."]}, {"id": "B1.4.46", "lines": ["Barman returned, triumphant from the fray,", "And bowed before Afrasiab that day."]}, {"id": "B1.4.47", "lines": ["The king bestowed a splendid khilat bright,", "A robe no lesser chief could claim by right."]}, {"id": "B1.4.48", "lines": ["When Gharan heard that Qobad had been slain,", "He led his troops in wrath across the plain."]}, {"id": "B1.4.49", "lines": ["Like two great Seas of Chin the armies crashed,", "And earth itself seemed moving as they clashed."]}, {"id": "B1.4.50", "lines": ["From the opposing side, with thunderous tread,", "Came Garsivaz, elephant-bodied, battle-bred."]}, {"id": "B1.4.51", "lines": ["Gharan advanced, a warrior fierce and strong,", "To meet the chief amid the surging throng."]}, {"id": "B1.4.52", "lines": ["The horses neighed, the dust obscured the sky,", "The Sun and Moon were hidden far on high."]}, {"id": "B1.4.53", "lines": ["Diamond-bright swords ran red as warriors died,", "And battle-cries rolled over every side."]}, {"id": "B1.4.54", "lines": ["The field became a sea beneath their tread,", "As cinnabar rained down in showers red."]}, {"id": "B1.4.55", "lines": ["The dust rose thick like storm clouds drenched in flame,", "Tabiras shaking marrow in each frame."]}, {"id": "B1.4.56", "lines": ["The beating koust filled cloud’s very brain;", "The sword’s soul reddened in the bloody rain."]}, {"id": "B1.4.57", "lines": ["Where Gharan rode, the lightning of his steel", "Struck down his foes and made their battle-lines reel."]}, {"id": "B1.4.58", "lines": ["Wherever Gharan wheeled his horse in fight,", "Like Azargashasp iron flashed with light."]}, {"id": "B1.4.59", "lines": ["His blows fell hard like thunder through the air,", "And warriors fell before him everywhere."]}, {"id": "B1.4.60", "lines": ["You would think diamonds scattered coral red;", "Yet it was lives, not coral, that they shed."]}, {"id": "B1.4.61", "lines": ["Afrasiab beheld the battle’s tide,", "And drove his ranks where Gharan’s warriors vied."]}, {"id": "B1.4.62", "lines": ["They fought until the night rose from the hill,", "And darkness spread across the battle still."]}, {"id": "B1.4.63", "lines": ["The struggle raged until the daylight waned,", "Then Gharan drew his troops back, battle-stained."]}, {"id": "B1.4.64", "lines": ["With grief for Qobad weighing on his breast,", "He sought the Shah, by boundless woe oppressed."]}, {"id": "B1.4.65", "lines": ["Nohzar beheld him, weeping for the slain,", "And spoke while sorrow filled his heart with pain."]}, {"id": "B1.4.66", "lines": ["His lashes long had known no restful sleep;", "Now from those eyes the bitter tears ran deep."]}, {"id": "B1.4.67", "lines": ["“Since Sahm has died, no grief has struck me so;", "May Qobad’s spirit like the bright Sun glow."]}, {"id": "B1.4.68", "lines": ["And may your worldly fortune long endure;", "One day brings joy, one grief; of this be sure."]}, {"id": "B1.4.69", "lines": ["No armor shields us when death bares its teeth;", "Earth gives no cradle but the grave beneath.”"]}, {"id": "B1.4.70", "lines": ["Gharan replied: “From birth I gave this frame to doom;", "All mortal bodies seek the silent tomb."]}, {"id": "B1.4.71", "lines": ["Fereydoon placed this war-helm on my head,", "To seek Iraj’s vengeance where I sped."]}, {"id": "B1.4.72", "lines": ["I have not yet unfastened that old belt,", "Nor laid aside the steel whose edge they felt."]}, {"id": "B1.4.73", "lines": ["Gone is my brother, wise and steadfast guide;", "I too shall fall with honor at my side."]}, {"id": "B1.4.74", "lines": ["Yet take heart still, for Afrasiab today", "Was pressed, and nearly driven from the fray."]}, {"id": "B1.4.75", "lines": ["When many of his warriors had been slain,", "He called fresh rested troops into the plain."]}, {"id": "B1.4.76", "lines": ["He saw my gorz and met me face to face;", "We fought with fury in that narrow space."]}, {"id": "B1.4.77", "lines": ["Still on we fought, our fury at its height;", "I drove until we met in open sight."]}, {"id": "B1.4.78", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab worked magic on my eyes;", "Their brightness faded under darkened skies."]}, {"id": "B1.4.79", "lines": ["Night covered all the world in darkness deep;", "My striking arm grew weary, strength asleep."]}, {"id": "B1.4.80", "lines": ["You would have thought the age itself had ended;", "The air sank underground as night descended."]}, {"id": "B1.4.81", "lines": ["The sky grew dark; the battle died away,", "And I was forced to turn and leave the fray.”"]}, {"id": "B1.5.1", "lines": ["Both armies rested through the dark of night,", "Next day they rose again to seek the fight."]}, {"id": "B1.5.2", "lines": ["The Iranians formed once more for war,", "The koust and ney made earth itself roar."]}, {"id": "B1.5.3", "lines": ["Afrasiab beheld the gathered line,", "And ranged his troops against them in design."]}, {"id": "B1.5.4", "lines": ["The dust rose thick beneath the riders’ flight,", "And hid the Sun itself from mortal sight."]}, {"id": "B1.5.5", "lines": ["A battle-shout rose vast from either train;", "No eye could tell the mountain from the plain."]}, {"id": "B1.5.6", "lines": ["The armies closed, and blood began to flow,", "Like rivers running through the ranks below."]}, {"id": "B1.5.7", "lines": ["Where Gharan rode and challenged through the fight,", "Blood poured beneath the black dust of his might."]}, {"id": "B1.5.8", "lines": ["Where Afrasiab rose, the bloodshed grew;", "Across the plain a crimson river flew."]}, {"id": "B1.5.9", "lines": ["From army’s center Nohzar gave the call,", "And rode against his foe before them all."]}, {"id": "B1.5.10", "lines": ["They met in combat, spear against the spear,", "Like coiling serpents, each the other’s peer."]}, {"id": "B1.5.11", "lines": ["No kings had ever clashed in such a way,", "Yet neither man would yield or step away."]}, {"id": "B1.5.12", "lines": ["They fought until the light began to wane,", "And lengthening shadows crossed the bloody plain."]}, {"id": "B1.5.13", "lines": ["Afrasiab had gained the upper hand,", "Before night’s veil was drawn across the land."]}, {"id": "B1.5.14", "lines": ["The battle raged; more Iranians fell,", "While still the opposing ranks fought fierce and well."]}, {"id": "B1.5.15", "lines": ["The Iranians turned helpless from the fight,", "And scattered over all the plain in flight."]}, {"id": "B1.5.16", "lines": ["Nohzar was struck with grief and bitter care,", "For dust had veiled the star his crown should bear."]}, {"id": "B1.5.17", "lines": ["When koust fell still and silence filled the air,", "He summoned Tus, in sorrow and despair."]}, {"id": "B1.5.18", "lines": ["With him came Gostaham, both hearts oppressed,", "Their lips breathed sighs, their souls by grief possessed."]}, {"id": "B1.5.19", "lines": ["Nohzar revealed the anguish in his breast;", "He spoke at length, while tears his grief confessed."]}, {"id": "B1.5.20", "lines": ["He called to mind his father’s counsel past;", "His heart ran blood; his sighs came cold and fast."]}, {"id": "B1.5.21", "lines": ["“My father said before his final day,", "From Turk and Chin great armies would make way."]}, {"id": "B1.5.22", "lines": ["He said my heart would ache beneath their blow,", "And grievous wounds would lay my army low."]}, {"id": "B1.5.23", "lines": ["His warning now is proved, his words made clear;", "Those proud Turanian warriors now are here."]}, {"id": "B1.5.24", "lines": ["No book of famous kings has ever shown", "A Turkish army vast as this has grown."]}, {"id": "B1.5.25", "lines": ["Go now to Pars and gather those within,", "The royal household, women of our kin."]}, {"id": "B1.5.26", "lines": ["From there toward Mount Zaveh lead their way,", "Then bring them up Alborz without delay."]}, {"id": "B1.5.27", "lines": ["Toward Rey and Isfahan now make your flight;", "Go secretly, unseen by those who fight."]}, {"id": "B1.5.28", "lines": ["If they should learn, despair will seize the men;", "This further blow could break their spirits then."]}, {"id": "B1.5.29", "lines": ["One or two heirs of Fereydoon’s blood survive,", "Though few may leave this field of war alive."]}, {"id": "B1.5.30", "lines": ["I do not know if I shall see you two;", "Tonight one final effort we must do."]}, {"id": "B1.5.31", "lines": ["Keep agents watching, constant and alert;", "Learn how the world may help us or may hurt."]}, {"id": "B1.5.32", "lines": ["If evil news should come from those who fight,", "My royal farr will fade and lose its light."]}, {"id": "B1.5.33", "lines": ["Do not let sorrow bend your hearts too low;", "The turning heaven sends such wounds below."]}, {"id": "B1.5.34", "lines": ["Time casts one warrior down amid the fray,", "While one beneath the crown finds joy that day."]}, {"id": "B1.5.35", "lines": ["The stricken body soon is like the dead;", "It struggles once, then all its pain has fled.”"]}, {"id": "B1.5.36", "lines": ["He stretched his royal hand and drew them near,", "Then clasped them both and shed a bitter tear."]}, {"id": "B1.6.1", "lines": ["Tus and Gostaham had gone upon their way,", "While grieving Nohzar in Dehestan lay."]}, {"id": "B1.6.2", "lines": ["Two days they rested; on the third the fight", "Was forced on Nohzar by Afrasiab’s might."]}, {"id": "B1.6.3", "lines": ["Like raging sea, Turan came rolling near;", "Horn and Indian daray rang loud and clear."]}, {"id": "B1.6.4", "lines": ["Before the Shah’s great tent the tabira rang,", "As iron helms were donned and weapons clanged."]}, {"id": "B1.6.5", "lines": ["No man had slept within Afrasiab’s lines;", "All night they honed their blades and laid designs."]}, {"id": "B1.6.6", "lines": ["Their swords were sharpened, javelins held in hand;", "All waited ready for the first command."]}, {"id": "B1.6.7", "lines": ["In jowshans, gorz-men lined each hill and vale,", "Their heavy weapons ready to assail."]}, {"id": "B1.6.8", "lines": ["No mountain, sand, or rock remained in view;", "From sea to sea a single thread they drew."]}, {"id": "B1.6.9", "lines": ["Gharan held firm the center of the line;", "The Shah stood as its pillar and its sign."]}, {"id": "B1.6.10", "lines": ["Taliman claimed the left with warrior’s pride,", "While bold Shapur secured the right-hand side."]}, {"id": "B1.6.11", "lines": ["From dawn till dusk the battle hid the plain,", "Till hill and valley vanished in the strain."]}, {"id": "B1.6.12", "lines": ["The sword’s own heart seemed swelling in the fray,", "The earth beneath the horses groaned all day."]}, {"id": "B1.6.13", "lines": ["It seemed the earth itself would split and crack,", "As steel on steel rang out with each attack."]}, {"id": "B1.6.14", "lines": ["When spear-shafts cast their shadows on the ground,", "Defeat began to close the Shah around."]}, {"id": "B1.6.15", "lines": ["Then darkness veiled the Shah’s auspicious light,", "While Turan claimed the mastery through might."]}, {"id": "B1.6.16", "lines": ["Where Shapur stood, the ranks were torn apart,", "And scattered troops gave way with failing heart."]}, {"id": "B1.6.17", "lines": ["Yet still he held his ground with fearless will,", "Until at last he fell, his body still."]}, {"id": "B1.6.18", "lines": ["The Iranians’ fortune turned its face away,", "And chiefs lay killed or wounded in the fray."]}, {"id": "B1.6.19", "lines": ["Then Nohzar and Gharan knew from the sign", "No friendly star would aid their battle line."]}, {"id": "B1.6.20", "lines": ["When Nohzar saw the field was lost that day,", "With Gharan toward Dehestan made his way."]}, {"id": "B1.6.21", "lines": ["Dehestan’s fortress formed their guarded wall;", "Its narrow passage gave scant room at all."]}, {"id": "B1.6.22", "lines": ["Along its passes they opposed the foe,", "And fought through every hour with blow on blow."]}, {"id": "B1.6.23", "lines": ["But when the Shah withdrew within the fort,", "The road to mounted battle was cut short."]}, {"id": "B1.6.24", "lines": ["Afrasiab arrayed his mounted band,", "At sleeping time dispatched them by command."]}, {"id": "B1.6.25", "lines": ["He summoned Kurukhan of Viseh’s line,", "And gave his charge with purpose and design:"]}, {"id": "B1.6.26", "lines": ["“To Pars advance by desert’s hidden way,", "For there the Iranian baggage lay."]}, {"id": "B1.6.27", "lines": ["Seek out their baggage, every load and train;", "Pursue that prize across the desert plain.”"]}, {"id": "B1.6.28", "lines": ["Gharan’s heart drew tight; his anger fiercely burned,", "Like a fierce leopard toward Nohzar he turned."]}, {"id": "B1.6.29", "lines": ["“See what this unmanly foe has dared to do:", "He strikes Iran’s veiled women through and through."]}, {"id": "B1.6.30", "lines": ["A countless force against our women goes,", "Sent down the road by these dishonored foes."]}, {"id": "B1.6.31", "lines": ["If he should seize them, shame will stain us all,", "Defeat upon our famous chiefs will fall."]}, {"id": "B1.6.32", "lines": ["If shame should take us, none could lift his head;", "I must pursue Kurukhan where he sped."]}, {"id": "B1.6.33", "lines": ["Grant me to ride, with your consent, today;", "I will chase that ill-starred Turk along his way."]}, {"id": "B1.6.34", "lines": ["You have your food and running water near;", "A loyal army still surrounds you here."]}, {"id": "B1.6.35", "lines": ["Remain here, Shah, and keep your courage bright;", "These walls and loyal men will ease the fight."]}, {"id": "B1.6.36", "lines": ["Do lion’s work where lion-work is due;", "Such courage best befits a king like you.”"]}, {"id": "B1.6.37", "lines": ["But Nohzar said: “No other hand but yours", "Can guide our ranks while danger still endures."]}, {"id": "B1.6.38", "lines": ["Tus and Gostaham rode when koust was heard,", "To guard our kin according to my word."]}, {"id": "B1.6.39", "lines": ["They seek our household and will soon be near;", "Trust in their strength and set aside your fear.”"]}, {"id": "B1.6.40", "lines": ["The chiefs withdrew into the royal hall,", "Where wine was brought to soften grief for all."]}, {"id": "B1.6.41", "lines": ["The Shah grew drunk and passed behind the screen,", "With vengeance in his heart still sharp and keen."]}, {"id": "B1.6.42", "lines": ["The nobles left in sorrow and unrest,", "Their eyes like Bahman clouds with tears oppressed."]}, {"id": "B1.6.43", "lines": ["They gathered then where Gharan held his place,", "And spoke with troubled hearts of what they faced."]}, {"id": "B1.6.44", "lines": ["Their judgment settled: Pars must be their way;", "They could not rest upon that field and stay."]}, {"id": "B1.6.45", "lines": ["“If we delay, our homes will fall to grief,", "With none to grant our families relief."]}, {"id": "B1.6.46", "lines": ["If wives and children fall in Turkish chain,", "No warrior’s heart can rest upon this plain."]}, {"id": "B1.6.47", "lines": ["What warrior then will lift his spear again,", "Or stand with honor in the ranks of men?”"]}, {"id": "B1.6.48", "lines": ["So Shidush, Keshvad, Gharan all agreed,", "And made their plans with urgency and speed."]}, {"id": "B1.6.49", "lines": ["At midnight’s depth they armed and took their way,", "With hearts weighed down by what the dawn might say."]}, {"id": "B1.6.50", "lines": ["Then Gharan, battle-ready, led his train,", "And took a fighting army from the plain."]}, {"id": "B1.6.51", "lines": ["That night they reached White Castle’s guarded gate,", "Their hearts without much hope against their fate."]}, {"id": "B1.6.52", "lines": ["There Gazhdaham stood firm against the foe;", "His wakeful warriors let no peril grow."]}, {"id": "B1.6.53", "lines": ["Across the fortress Barman blocked the way,", "With elephants and warriors in array."]}, {"id": "B1.6.54", "lines": ["Gharan recalled his brother’s blood once shed,", "And bound his battle-belt to avenge the dead."]}, {"id": "B1.6.55", "lines": ["He armed himself and drove his forces on,", "With vengeance burning fiercely before dawn."]}, {"id": "B1.6.56", "lines": ["His champions followed close behind their guide,", "As all at once toward Pars he turned to ride."]}, {"id": "B1.6.57", "lines": ["Then Barman came, like lion fierce and grim,", "To meet the storm that now advanced on him."]}, {"id": "B1.6.58", "lines": ["Gharan beheld him charging through the fight,", "Amid the blood-dark dust with furious might."]}, {"id": "B1.6.59", "lines": ["Like lions they grappled in the bloody fray,", "And Gharan gave him no time for delay."]}, {"id": "B1.6.60", "lines": ["He charged at once and called on Yazdan’s aid,", "His heart on vengeance and on battle stayed."]}, {"id": "B1.6.61", "lines": ["Then Gharan drove his spear through Barman’s belt,", "And broke the frame beneath the blow he dealt."]}, {"id": "B1.6.62", "lines": ["Headfirst he tumbled from his steed in flight;", "The sun within the shining sphere lost light."]}, {"id": "B1.6.63", "lines": ["His men beheld their champion dead outright;", "His army broke and scattered at the sight."]}, {"id": "B1.6.64", "lines": ["Thus Gharan rode toward Pars with steady grace,", "To guard the homes and honor of his race."]}, {"id": "B1.7.1", "lines": ["When Nohzar learned that Gharan had withdrawn,", "He mounted fast and followed swiftly on."]}, {"id": "B1.7.2", "lines": ["He spurred his horse to flee the coming doom,", "Before the turning sky could seal his tomb."]}, {"id": "B1.7.3", "lines": ["Afrasiab heard that Nohzar rode away,", "And gathered troops to hunt him down that day."]}, {"id": "B1.7.4", "lines": ["Like some fierce lion driving down its prey,", "He closed the gap and barred the fleeing way."]}, {"id": "B1.7.5", "lines": ["When Afrasiab pressed close upon his line,", "Nohzar saw flight and battle intertwine."]}, {"id": "B1.7.6", "lines": ["Afrasiab sought the Shah amid the rout,", "And pressed to seize him, hemming him about."]}, {"id": "B1.7.7", "lines": ["They fought from darkest night till high the Sun,", "And dust concealed the ruin being done."]}, {"id": "B1.7.8", "lines": ["The earth grew dark beneath the trampling tread,", "As strength gave way and hope was nearly dead."]}, {"id": "B1.7.9", "lines": ["At last the Shah was taken in the field,", "With twelve hundred great nobles made to yield."]}, {"id": "B1.7.10", "lines": ["Though many tried to break and flee the snare,", "They found no path, no refuge anywhere."]}, {"id": "B1.7.11", "lines": ["Afrasiab in chains secured them all,", "The Shah and chiefs brought low by fortune’s fall."]}, {"id": "B1.7.12", "lines": ["Though heaven sit beside you as a friend,", "None can escape the turning without end."]}, {"id": "B1.7.13", "lines": ["It grants the crown, the throne, the kingly name,", "Then strips them bare and leaves but ash and shame."]}, {"id": "B1.7.14", "lines": ["It plays as friend, then swiftly turns to foe,", "Now gives the kernel, then the husk below."]}, {"id": "B1.7.15", "lines": ["The world is cunning, skilled in every game,", "And every moment starts another frame."]}, {"id": "B1.7.16", "lines": ["Though one may rise until his head meets cloud,", "His final dwelling lies beneath earth’s shroud."]}, {"id": "B1.7.17", "lines": ["Afrasiab gave orders far and wide:", "“Search cave and mountain, wilderness and tide."]}, {"id": "B1.7.18", "lines": ["Seek Gharan till the warrior is found;", "Let him not flee beyond our army’s bound.”"]}, {"id": "B1.7.19", "lines": ["But when he heard that Gharan had withdrawn", "To guard the royal women, peace was gone."]}, {"id": "B1.7.20", "lines": ["“Let Barman go,” he said, “with lion’s might,", "And seize the chief before he leaves our sight.”"]}, {"id": "B1.7.21", "lines": ["They told him then how Barman had been slain,", "And from his horse was cast upon the plain."]}, {"id": "B1.7.22", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab grieved; no food could please,", "Nor rest nor sleep could bring his spirit ease."]}, {"id": "B1.7.23", "lines": ["He turned to Viseh: “Harden now your heart;", "Your son is dead; prepare to play your part."]}, {"id": "B1.7.24", "lines": ["When Gharan, Kaveh’s son, comes armed to fight,", "The leopard checks before his spear in fright."]}, {"id": "B1.7.25", "lines": ["Now gird yourself and ride upon his track;", "Lead forth a seasoned force and strike him back.”"]}, {"id": "B1.8.1", "lines": ["Viseh, sepahbod of Turan’s array,", "Set forth for vengeance with his troops that day."]}, {"id": "B1.8.2", "lines": ["Before he reached Gharan upon the plain,", "He found his son among the Turan slain."]}, {"id": "B1.8.3", "lines": ["There lay his son where blood had soaked the ground,", "His torn standard and overturned koust around."]}, {"id": "B1.8.4", "lines": ["His shroud was tulip-red where he lay still;", "His yellow face was past all hurt and ill."]}, {"id": "B1.8.5", "lines": ["Around him Turan’s chiefs lay cut and hewn,", "All cast aside across the field, and strewn."]}, {"id": "B1.8.6", "lines": ["The sight so struck Viseh with grief and pain,", "It seemed his heart had split beneath the strain."]}, {"id": "B1.8.7", "lines": ["Hot tears poured down; his sight was blurred with woe,", "He spurred his horse and charged against the foe."]}, {"id": "B1.8.8", "lines": ["Like some swift-moving cloud he thundered on,", "And tumult filled the world where he had gone."]}, {"id": "B1.8.9", "lines": ["Word reached Gharan that Viseh now drew near,", "With victory and farr, his army at his rear."]}, {"id": "B1.8.10", "lines": ["Gharan sent Tazi steeds toward Nimruz’s way,", "To speed ahead before the close of day."]}, {"id": "B1.8.11", "lines": ["Then Gharan came from Pars upon the plain,", "Prepared to meet the fierce Turanian train."]}, {"id": "B1.8.12", "lines": ["Upon his left an army came in view,", "And from beneath its march the dust-cloud grew."]}, {"id": "B1.8.13", "lines": ["When from the plain a rising dust was seen,", "A sable banner pierced the murky screen."]}, {"id": "B1.8.14", "lines": ["From out the haze the Turan army came,", "With Viseh leading, fierce with grief and flame."]}, {"id": "B1.8.15", "lines": ["Both armies formed, their battle-lines arrayed,", "Each side prepared to test the other’s blade."]}, {"id": "B1.8.16", "lines": ["Then Viseh cried: “The wind has swept away", "Your crown and throne and all their proud display!"]}, {"id": "B1.8.17", "lines": ["From Ghanooj, Kabul, Ghaznin, Zabul’s land,", "Our royal signs now mark what we command."]}, {"id": "B1.8.18", "lines": ["Where will you seek a shelter or a shield,", "Now that your Shah is captive, far afield?”"]}, {"id": "B1.8.19", "lines": ["Gharan replied: “I cast my felt today", "Into the running stream and chose my way."]}, {"id": "B1.8.20", "lines": ["I did not leave from fear or rumors spread;", "I came for battle, not to turn my head."]}, {"id": "B1.8.21", "lines": ["Your son I sought and struck him down in fight;", "Now you shall learn what vengeance brings tonight.”"]}, {"id": "B1.8.22", "lines": ["They charged together; karnay split the sky,", "Black dust concealed the Moon from every eye."]}, {"id": "B1.8.23", "lines": ["The armies closed, and blood began to flow,", "A running river through the ranks below."]}, {"id": "B1.8.24", "lines": ["Gharan attacked; the armies clashed that day,", "But Viseh turned from battle and gave way."]}, {"id": "B1.8.25", "lines": ["Many were slain; bewildered Viseh reeled,", "His star brought loss; Gharan pursued no field."]}, {"id": "B1.8.26", "lines": ["He went to Afrasiab with streaming eyes,", "And mourned his slaughtered son with bitter cries."]}, {"id": "B1.9.1", "lines": ["From Arman’s lands the expedition came,", "Against Zabul, with vengeance as their aim."]}, {"id": "B1.9.2", "lines": ["Shamasas rode from Jihun toward the plain,", "While Khazarvan led on his warrior train."]}, {"id": "B1.9.3", "lines": ["With thirty thousand swordsmen at command,", "He marched them onward toward Hirmund’s strand."]}, {"id": "B1.9.4", "lines": ["With sword and spear and lofty gorz arrayed,", "They marched alert along the road they made."]}, {"id": "B1.9.5", "lines": ["With a goorab Zal raised his father’s tomb,", "And mourned for Sahm in deep, despairing gloom."]}, {"id": "B1.9.6", "lines": ["But Mehrab in the city held his ground,", "Bright-minded, sleepless, watching all around."]}, {"id": "B1.9.7", "lines": ["The messenger approached Shamasas’s tent,", "To bring the words Mehrab, his master, sent:"]}, {"id": "B1.9.8", "lines": ["He reached the pavilion, bowed before the chief,", "And gave Mehrab’s greetings, smooth and brief."]}, {"id": "B1.9.9", "lines": ["“May Turan’s king forever rule in might,", "His crown endure, his fortune shining bright."]}, {"id": "B1.9.10", "lines": ["From Zahhak’s line my ancestry I trace;", "In this new kingship joy has found no place."]}, {"id": "B1.9.11", "lines": ["By kinship bought, I kept my life secure;", "No other remedy could life ensure."]}, {"id": "B1.9.12", "lines": ["This dwelling, seat, and realm are my domain,", "And Zabulistan lies beneath my reign."]}, {"id": "B1.9.13", "lines": ["Now Zal is lost in grief and far from sight,", "At Sahm’s ostudan, kept from the fight."]}, {"id": "B1.9.14", "lines": ["My heart rejoices grief has struck him sore;", "I mean to see the face of Zal no more."]}, {"id": "B1.9.15", "lines": ["Grant me some time before you move from here;", "A swift hiyun shall bear my message clear."]}, {"id": "B1.9.16", "lines": ["A clear-sighted rider, swift and wise,", "I will dispatch where Afrasiab lies."]}, {"id": "B1.9.17", "lines": ["Perhaps my hidden purpose he will know,", "And few more words will need from me to flow."]}, {"id": "B1.9.18", "lines": ["With fitting tribute I will seek his grace,", "And send all gifts that suit a sovereign’s place."]}, {"id": "B1.9.19", "lines": ["At his command, before his throne I stand,", "And place myself beneath his royal hand."]}, {"id": "B1.9.20", "lines": ["All kingship I will render as his due,", "And keep my heart toward him glad and true."]}, {"id": "B1.9.21", "lines": ["No hardship shall I cause your honored chief;", "With heaped-up treasure I will bring relief.”"]}, {"id": "B1.9.22", "lines": ["Thus Mehrab soothed Shamasas where he stayed,", "While secretly a counterplan he laid."]}, {"id": "B1.9.23", "lines": ["Then like a bird toward Zal his courier ran,", "To warn Dastan and tell him of the plan:"]}, {"id": "B1.9.24", "lines": ["“Tell Dastan all that you have seen this day,", "And bid him come at once without delay."]}, {"id": "B1.9.25", "lines": ["Two chiefs of Turan come with claw and blade,", "Their army like a plain with leopards arrayed."]}, {"id": "B1.9.26", "lines": ["At Hirmund now their forces stand complete;", "With dinars I have bound their marching feet."]}, {"id": "B1.9.27", "lines": ["But if you pause a moment in your grief,", "The foe will win his wish beyond relief.”"]}, {"id": "B1.9.28", "lines": ["He reached Zal’s side and told the danger dire,", "And kindled Dastan’s heart to blazing fire."]}, {"id": "B1.10.1", "lines": ["When Zal received the warning, swift he rose,", "And called his warlike troops against their foes."]}, {"id": "B1.10.2", "lines": ["Toward valiant Mehrab swiftly Zal made way,", "His fighting army followed in array."]}, {"id": "B1.10.3", "lines": ["When he beheld Mehrab, composed and wise,", "He cast aside all fear before his eyes."]}, {"id": "B1.10.4", "lines": ["“What cause have we,” he said, “to shrink or flee?", "This Khazarvan is less than dust to me.”"]}, {"id": "B1.10.5", "lines": ["To wise Mehrab he spoke with steady breath:", "“By night I will deal these enemies their death."]}, {"id": "B1.10.6", "lines": ["They soon shall learn that Zal has reached the field,", "To make their troops before his fury yield.”"]}, {"id": "B1.10.7", "lines": ["He set a mighty bow upon his arm,", "And chose a branch-like shaft to deal them harm."]}, {"id": "B1.10.8", "lines": ["He marked each station where the chiefs might lie,", "Then drove one shaft straight upward through the sky."]}, {"id": "B1.10.9", "lines": ["Then three shafts sped to three posts through the night,", "And stirred the camp with sudden fear and fright."]}, {"id": "B1.10.10", "lines": ["At dawn the troops discovered where they fell,", "And cried: “These are Zal’s shafts; we know them well!”"]}, {"id": "B1.10.11", "lines": ["Said Shamasas: “O Khazarvan, take heed;", "This long delay has served the foe’s own need."]}, {"id": "B1.10.12", "lines": ["Had you struck first, Mehrab would be no more;", "His troops and treasure would be ours in war.”"]}, {"id": "B1.10.13", "lines": ["Khazarvan said: “Not Ahriman is here;", "I shall confront this Zal and know no fear.”"]}, {"id": "B1.10.14", "lines": ["When morning broke, the tabira gave sound,", "And warlike cries arose from all around."]}, {"id": "B1.10.15", "lines": ["Within the city koust and karnay cried,", "Bells and the Indian daray rang beside."]}, {"id": "B1.10.16", "lines": ["Zal donned his armor, swiftly took his steed,", "And every warrior armed and took his lead."]}, {"id": "B1.10.17", "lines": ["With wrathful hearts and vengeance in their eyes,", "They rode to meet the foe beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B1.10.18", "lines": ["With elephants and ranks in ordered line,", "His pavilion rose where arms and armor shine."]}, {"id": "B1.10.19", "lines": ["The armies met; black dust rose thick and wide,", "And made the plain a mountain at each side."]}, {"id": "B1.10.20", "lines": ["Then Khazarvan, with gorz and shield in hand,", "Rushed forth to strike and make his boldest stand."]}, {"id": "B1.10.21", "lines": ["He smote Zal’s breast so hard the jowshan split,", "And drove him back, though courage would not quit."]}, {"id": "B1.10.22", "lines": ["The chiefs of Kabul turned in brief retreat,", "And yielded ground beneath the battle’s heat."]}, {"id": "B1.10.23", "lines": ["Again Zal donned his armor for the fight,", "And like a lion charged with all his might."]}, {"id": "B1.10.24", "lines": ["His blood ran hot; his fury flared and grew;", "He seized his father’s gorz and forward flew."]}, {"id": "B1.10.25", "lines": ["Then Khazarvan advanced with roaring cry,", "Like lion fierce beneath the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "B1.10.26", "lines": ["But Zal surged on and would not quit the fight;", "He raised the ox-head gorz with all his might."]}, {"id": "B1.10.27", "lines": ["He swung the gorz with force no man could stay,", "And struck his head and drove his life away."]}, {"id": "B1.10.28", "lines": ["His blood made earth appear a leopard’s hide;", "Zal cast him down and passed him in his stride."]}, {"id": "B1.10.29", "lines": ["Zal pressed ahead, his warriors drawing near,", "And called for Shamasas to face his spear."]}, {"id": "B1.10.30", "lines": ["But Shamasas stood still, his courage fled;", "The blood within his face and heart seemed dead."]}, {"id": "B1.10.31", "lines": ["Then Zal saw Kulbad moving through the dust,", "And raised his steel to strike with battle-lust."]}, {"id": "B1.10.32", "lines": ["But Kulbad saw Dastan’s dread gorz and blade,", "And turned to flee, seeking the nearest shade."]}, {"id": "B1.10.33", "lines": ["Zal strung his bow and loosed a deadly dart,", "That struck his girdle at the chain-linked part."]}, {"id": "B1.10.34", "lines": ["It sewed his waist tight to the saddle bow;", "The army grieved to see their champion low."]}, {"id": "B1.10.35", "lines": ["With both great leaders fallen in the fight,", "Shamasas lost his heart; his face lost light."]}, {"id": "B1.10.36", "lines": ["His army scattered like a flock in rain,", "And fled in broken bands across the plain."]}, {"id": "B1.10.37", "lines": ["The chiefs of Zabul pressed the fleeing train,", "With Kabul’s king, who rode with might and main,"]}, {"id": "B1.10.38", "lines": ["So many slain lay crowded on the field,", "The world seemed narrowed, every pathway sealed."]}, {"id": "B1.10.39", "lines": ["Turanians fled toward Afrasiab’s line,", "Their weapons loose, their broken belts a sign."]}, {"id": "B1.10.40", "lines": ["Shamasas fled the field where blood was shed;", "In wilderness Gharan stood straight ahead."]}, {"id": "B1.10.41", "lines": ["For Gharan came, returning from the fray,", "Where he had driven Viseh’s men away."]}, {"id": "B1.10.42", "lines": ["The two great armies met across the way,", "And Gharan faced Shamasas in array."]}, {"id": "B1.10.43", "lines": ["He knew at once what raiders caused delay,", "And what in Zabul they had done that day."]}, {"id": "B1.10.44", "lines": ["The bronze horn sounded, and the road was sealed;", "No path remained across the open field."]}, {"id": "B1.10.45", "lines": ["Then Gharan cried: “Take up your spears and fight;", "Destroy this routed army in your sight!”"]}, {"id": "B1.10.46", "lines": ["Like drunken elephants they roared as one,", "And charged with spears beneath the darkened Sun."]}, {"id": "B1.10.47", "lines": ["Their spears fell thick like reeds across the ground,", "Till Sun and Moon could nowhere there be found."]}, {"id": "B1.10.48", "lines": ["They slew the routed foe in one long throng,", "And cast them down the road they fled along."]}, {"id": "B1.10.49", "lines": ["Yet Shamasas escaped with only a few,", "And fled the storm that tore his ranks in two."]}, {"id": "B1.10.50", "lines": ["With those few men he fled the darkened field,", "And vanished where the dust all light concealed."]}, {"id": "B1.10.51", "lines": ["Behind the fugitives the battle-cloud", "Rose toward the shining Sun, immense and proud."]}, {"id": "B1.11.1", "lines": ["When word arrived of chiefs and warriors slain,", "It struck Afrasiab with bitter pain."]}, {"id": "B1.11.2", "lines": ["His cheeks were wet, his heart was filled with grief:", "“I hold Nohzar, yet none can grant relief."]}, {"id": "B1.11.3", "lines": ["My captains fall while he remains in chains,", "While blood of chiefs still stains the open plains.”"]}, {"id": "B1.11.4", "lines": ["Enraged, he cried: “Where is the captive king?", "Let Viseh’s vengeance on his blood now spring.”"]}, {"id": "B1.11.5", "lines": ["He called an executioner and said:", "“Bring him before me; he shall soon be dead.”"]}, {"id": "B1.11.6", "lines": ["When Nohzar heard, he knew his time was near;", "His day had shortened and his end was clear."]}, {"id": "B1.11.7", "lines": ["A clamorous troop came shouting to his place,", "To drag the captive Shah to death’s embrace."]}, {"id": "B1.11.8", "lines": ["They bound his arms with cords drawn hard and tight,", "And dragged him forth before the tyrant’s sight."]}, {"id": "B1.11.9", "lines": ["From tent to plain they brought him in disgrace,", "Barefoot, bareheaded, fortune turned its face."]}, {"id": "B1.11.10", "lines": ["Afrasiab fixed on him his burning gaze,", "While ancient hatred set his heart ablaze."]}, {"id": "B1.11.11", "lines": ["Afrasiab spoke of old feud and hate,", "Of Salm and Tur, and vengeance long in wait."]}, {"id": "B1.11.12", "lines": ["All reverence due to kings he cast aside,", "With words of scorn and harsh, relentless pride:"]}, {"id": "B1.11.13", "lines": ["“You merit every ill that now draws near.”", "He called for steel, his purpose stark and clear."]}, {"id": "B1.11.14", "lines": ["The sword was brought; he struck the crowned Shah dead,", "And with one stroke cut off his royal head."]}, {"id": "B1.11.15", "lines": ["His body was contemptuously cast", "Into the dust; his royal days were past."]}, {"id": "B1.11.16", "lines": ["Thus Manuchehr’s descendant was overthrown,", "And Iran stood bereft of crown and throne."]}, {"id": "B1.11.17", "lines": ["O wise man, seeking what the world may yield,", "Let not your heart by greed be wrapped and sealed."]}, {"id": "B1.11.18", "lines": ["The throne and crown have known a thousand kings,", "Who, just like you, once ruled such earthly things."]}, {"id": "B1.11.19", "lines": ["You reached the place toward which you hurried fast;", "What you desired has come, and now is past."]}, {"id": "B1.11.20", "lines": ["What do you seek from this dark earth of grief,", "That sends you back in want, without relief?"]}, {"id": "B1.11.21", "lines": ["If turning heaven strips your saddle away,", "Your pillow will be dust when ends your day."]}, {"id": "B1.11.22", "lines": ["The captives next were dragged before the blade,", "And begged for mercy, trembling and afraid."]}, {"id": "B1.11.23", "lines": ["Then wise Aghriras saw them bound in fear;", "His heart flared up like fire as he drew near."]}, {"id": "B1.11.24", "lines": ["“Shall guiltless heads fall here at your command,", "Though none has raised a weapon by his hand?”"]}, {"id": "B1.11.25", "lines": ["He came before the king with urgent cries,", "And pleaded for the captives’ threatened lives:"]}, {"id": "B1.11.26", "lines": ["“These chiefs wear neither helmet nor cuirass;", "They stand outside the field where war-lines pass."]}, {"id": "B1.11.27", "lines": ["To slaughter captives brings no king renown;", "A lofty place is thus brought basely down."]}, {"id": "B1.11.28", "lines": ["Give them to me, and I will hold them fast,", "Still bound, so none may flee me at the last."]}, {"id": "B1.11.29", "lines": ["A cave shall be their prison, dark and deep;", "And wise men shall be set their watch to keep."]}, {"id": "B1.11.30", "lines": ["In Sari let them wake to grief and shame;", "Withdraw your hand from blood and end this claim.”"]}, {"id": "B1.11.31", "lines": ["At last he yielded, stayed the killing hand,", "And spared the lives of that defeated band."]}, {"id": "B1.11.32", "lines": ["He gave command they should in bonds be cast;", "To Sari, chained and humbled, they were passed."]}, {"id": "B1.11.33", "lines": ["Then from Dehestan’s plains his army wheeled;", "To Rey he rode to make the whole world yield."]}, {"id": "B1.11.34", "lines": ["His army wrapped the earth in dust from sight,", "His chargers sweated in their forward flight."]}, {"id": "B1.11.35", "lines": ["He set the Kayanian crown upon his head,", "And dinars from his open hand were spread."]}, {"id": "B1.11.36", "lines": ["He ruled as Shah with vengeance in his breast,", "And thoughts of war that never gave him rest."]}, {"id": "B1.12.1", "lines": ["To Tus and Gostaham the swift news raced:", "“The royal farr is dimmed, the crown laid waste."]}, {"id": "B1.12.2", "lines": ["The head that bore the diadem is lost,", "And fortune turned when steel his neck had crossed.”"]}, {"id": "B1.12.3", "lines": ["Men tore their faces, rent their hair in grief;", "No heart could bear the weight nor find relief."]}, {"id": "B1.12.4", "lines": ["A cry of mourning rose through all the air,", "And grief spread wider than the heart could bear."]}, {"id": "B1.12.5", "lines": ["The nobles cast the dust upon their hair,", "Their robes were torn, their faces gashed in despair."]}, {"id": "B1.12.6", "lines": ["All eyes were wet, all garments rent and torn,", "As though the world itself had come to mourn."]}, {"id": "B1.12.7", "lines": ["They turned toward Zabul, mourning as they went,", "The Shah upon each tongue, each heart intent."]}, {"id": "B1.12.8", "lines": ["Each soul still sought the king now lost from sight,", "And every word recalled his royal light."]}, {"id": "B1.12.9", "lines": ["They came to Zal in anguish and despair,", "Their faces gashed, dust thick upon their hair."]}, {"id": "B1.12.10", "lines": ["They cried: “Our noble Shah, so just and wise!", "O crown of kings beneath the open skies!"]}, {"id": "B1.12.11", "lines": ["Protector of Iran, the realm’s strong stay,", "The chief of crowned men now has passed away."]}, {"id": "B1.12.12", "lines": ["His royal head lies crownless on the ground,", "And royal blood’s own scent is all around."]}, {"id": "B1.12.13", "lines": ["The grasses bowed before the Sun in shame,", "Each growing plant bent low before its flame."]}, {"id": "B1.12.14", "lines": ["In him Fereydoon’s living sign was known,", "And earth served humbly where his hoof had flown."]}, {"id": "B1.12.15", "lines": ["Before renowned men Nohzar lost his head;", "Now we must rise in vengeance for the dead."]}, {"id": "B1.12.16", "lines": ["We draw our blades against Turanian pride,", "Renew the ancient feud and turn the tide."]}, {"id": "B1.12.17", "lines": ["The heavens weep with us in crimson rain,", "Our sorrow bears witness to grief and pain."]}, {"id": "B1.12.18", "lines": ["Let none withhold his tears or check his rage;", "For blood with blood must answer age to age.”"]}, {"id": "B1.12.19", "lines": ["The crowd wept bitterly with hearts afire,", "Consumed with grief and burning with desire."]}, {"id": "B1.12.20", "lines": ["Then Zal himself tore garments from his frame,", "And sank to dust in sorrow and in shame."]}, {"id": "B1.12.21", "lines": ["He cried: “My sword shall never rest from strife,", "Till Resurrection wakes the dead to life."]}, {"id": "B1.12.22", "lines": ["My steed shall be my throne, my spear my tree,", "The battlefield my home till Iran is free."]}, {"id": "B1.12.23", "lines": ["The stirrup shall support my marching feet,", "A darkened helm shall make my arms complete."]}, {"id": "B1.12.24", "lines": ["No rest or sleep shall ever ease my soul,", "Until revenge has made my spirit whole."]}, {"id": "B1.12.25", "lines": ["No stream can match the river of my eyes,", "That flows for him whose glory never dies."]}, {"id": "B1.12.26", "lines": ["May Nohzar’s soul shine bright among the great,", "And dwell in honor far beyond our fate."]}, {"id": "B1.12.27", "lines": ["O Maker of the world, give us release;", "Renew our souls in faith and lasting peace."]}, {"id": "B1.12.28", "lines": ["All men are born to die, such is our doom;", "We yield our necks and pass into the tomb.”"]}, {"id": "B1.12.29", "lines": ["At Sari captives heard the news relayed:", "Swift hiyuns sped; vast troops drew near, arrayed."]}, {"id": "B1.12.30", "lines": ["They neither ate nor slept for mortal dread,", "Of Afrasiab whose wrath hung overhead."]}, {"id": "B1.12.31", "lines": ["They sent to wise Aghriras their plea:", "“O chief, your judgment may yet set us free!"]}, {"id": "B1.12.32", "lines": ["By your word still we draw our living breath;", "We are your servants; shield us now from death."]}, {"id": "B1.12.33", "lines": ["The King of Kabulistan joins the call,", "With Barzin, battle-ready before all."]}, {"id": "B1.12.34", "lines": ["With Gharan, Kharrad, Keshvad at his side,", "Long-armed, peerless in Iran’s ranks, they ride."]}, {"id": "B1.12.35", "lines": ["Few hands in Iran can match theirs in the field;", "Their iron arms will strike and never yield."]}, {"id": "B1.12.36", "lines": ["When these men come and raise their spears in might,", "Afrasiab will burn with furious spite."]}, {"id": "B1.12.37", "lines": ["For crown and throne he may in fury slay", "A flock of guiltless men before the day."]}, {"id": "B1.12.38", "lines": ["If you would free us from this mortal plight,", "We shall exalt your name to honor’s height."]}, {"id": "B1.12.39", "lines": ["Then scattered through the world, we shall proclaim", "Before the great the glory of your name."]}, {"id": "B1.12.40", "lines": ["Before the nobles we will speak your praise,", "And pray to Yazdan for you all our days.”"]}, {"id": "B1.12.41", "lines": ["Wise Aghriras replied: “I cannot dare;", "To free you now would lay my purpose bare."]}, {"id": "B1.12.42", "lines": ["My brother’s wrath would fall upon my head,", "His Ahriman-like rage would boil instead."]}, {"id": "B1.12.43", "lines": ["But I will seek another wiser way,", "Lest my own brother turn on me as prey."]}, {"id": "B1.12.44", "lines": ["But if Zal comes with warriors strong and bold,", "And seeks us out as destiny foretold,"]}, {"id": "B1.12.45", "lines": ["When near to Sari Dastan comes in sight,", "I will give you all and quit the fight."]}, {"id": "B1.12.46", "lines": ["From Amol I will turn and leave the fray,", "Though knowingly I bring my name dismay.”"]}, {"id": "B1.12.47", "lines": ["At this the nobles bowed their heads in praise,", "And sent swift word through winding desert ways."]}, {"id": "B1.12.48", "lines": ["From Sari sped a courier on his steed,", "To bear the message in their hour of need:"]}, {"id": "B1.12.49", "lines": ["“Our God has shown us mercy in this hour;", "Aghriras stands our friend against his power."]}, {"id": "B1.12.50", "lines": ["If Zal with two companions comes to fight,", "He will depart and yield us to your right."]}, {"id": "B1.12.51", "lines": ["From Amol toward Rey his ranks will make way,", "And leave the road unbarred for us that day."]}, {"id": "B1.12.52", "lines": ["Thus may a world escape the Dragon’s hold,", "And live to see another sunrise gold.”"]}, {"id": "B1.12.53", "lines": ["The courier reached Zabul and would not wait,", "And told Zal all the workings of their fate."]}, {"id": "B1.12.54", "lines": ["He called the nobles, told them all he knew,", "And asked: “What warrior will this task pursue?"]}, {"id": "B1.12.55", "lines": ["O noble lords, O leopards of the fight,", "Which warrior takes this venture as his right?"]}, {"id": "B1.12.56", "lines": ["Who bears a kanarang’s heart to face the foe,", "And lifts his head toward Sun to strike the blow?”"]}, {"id": "B1.12.57", "lines": ["Then Keshvad struck his breast and answered clear:", "“I take the task; no danger brings me fear.”"]}, {"id": "B1.12.58", "lines": ["Zal praised his strength and said: “May fortune guide", "Your path and stand forever at your side.”"]}, {"id": "B1.12.59", "lines": ["From Zabul warriors rode with arms in hand,", "Toward Amol, a battle-seeking band."]}, {"id": "B1.12.60", "lines": ["When Aghriras heard their warriors drew near,", "He sounded his bronze horn and left the roadway clear."]}, {"id": "B1.12.61", "lines": ["He marched away; the captives still remained,", "At Sari waiting, fettered there and chained."]}, {"id": "B1.12.62", "lines": ["When Keshvad reached them, fortune turned its face;", "The key to all their bonds appeared in place."]}, {"id": "B1.12.63", "lines": ["Then Keshvad came and broke their bonds apart,", "And freedom brought new courage to each heart."]}, {"id": "B1.12.64", "lines": ["A horse was then made ready, man by man,", "And each prepared to ride with Keshvad’s band."]}, {"id": "B1.12.65", "lines": ["They turned toward Zabul, swift upon their way,", "Delivered now from fear and dark dismay."]}, {"id": "B1.12.66", "lines": ["When Zal heard news of their returning train,", "He gave the poor rich treasure for their pain."]}, {"id": "B1.12.67", "lines": ["His own robe to the messenger he gave,", "Then rode to greet the men he helped to save."]}, {"id": "B1.12.68", "lines": ["He wept for those released from lion’s claw,", "Whose rescue from that grip his own eyes saw."]}, {"id": "B1.12.69", "lines": ["He cast dust on his head in bitter woe,", "And mourned the slaughtered Nohzar lying low."]}, {"id": "B1.12.70", "lines": ["He led them to the city in array,", "And decked the lofty halls to greet their stay."]}, {"id": "B1.12.71", "lines": ["They lived once more as in Nohzar’s own day,", "With crown and throne restored in bright display."]}, {"id": "B1.12.72", "lines": ["And Zal gave freely from his boundless hand,", "Till none lacked treasure in the gathered band."]}, {"id": "B1.13.1", "lines": ["From Amol back to Rey Aghriras came,", "The king learned all and held his deeds to blame:"]}, {"id": "B1.13.2", "lines": ["“Why have you stirred this trouble in my sight,", "And mixed sweet honey with colocynth’s bite?"]}, {"id": "B1.13.3", "lines": ["Did I not bid you strike those captives dead?", "In war no wisdom rules a warrior’s head."]}, {"id": "B1.13.4", "lines": ["By wisdom no man wins a warrior’s name;", "In battle none can pause for pride or shame."]}, {"id": "B1.13.5", "lines": ["A warrior’s head to reason will not bend;", "For vengeance and sound wisdom never blend.”"]}, {"id": "B1.13.6", "lines": ["Aghriras answered: “Modesty must stand;", "Some sense of honor must restrain the hand."]}, {"id": "B1.13.7", "lines": ["When evil lies within your hand to do,", "Fear Yazdan; let no harm be done by you."]}, {"id": "B1.13.8", "lines": ["The crown and girdle many men shall see;", "They will not serve one ruler endlessly.”"]}, {"id": "B1.13.9", "lines": ["Afrasiab stood silent at the word;", "No fitting answer from his lips was heard."]}, {"id": "B1.13.10", "lines": ["One filled with fire, one filled with wisdom’s light;", "What place then has wisdom in a Div’s spite?"]}, {"id": "B1.13.11", "lines": ["Like a drunken elephant, in rage he swayed,", "And for his answer reached to draw his blade."]}, {"id": "B1.13.12", "lines": ["Across his brother’s waist the sword cut through,", "And split his body cleanly into two."]}, {"id": "B1.13.13", "lines": ["When Zal received the news, his fury blazed;", "His wrath for famed Aghriras now was raised."]}, {"id": "B1.13.14", "lines": ["“His fortune now shall darken and decay;", "His throne shall fall and all his luck give way.”"]}, {"id": "B1.13.15", "lines": ["The bronze horn rang; the koust was tightly bound,", "His ranks like rooster’s eye were gathered round."]}, {"id": "B1.13.16", "lines": ["In wrath he marched toward Pars with spear in hand,", "His heart sought vengeance as he crossed the land."]}, {"id": "B1.13.17", "lines": ["From sea to sea the ranks of men were spread,", "While dust veiled Moon and Sun above each head."]}, {"id": "B1.13.18", "lines": ["Afrasiab heard what Dastan had begun,", "The warlike scheme the seasoned chief had spun."]}, {"id": "B1.13.19", "lines": ["Toward Khar of Rey he led his gathered force,", "Arrayed for battle, firm upon his course."]}, {"id": "B1.13.20", "lines": ["By night and day the outposts clashed in fight,", "Till all the world seemed cast in one same light."]}, {"id": "B1.13.21", "lines": ["Two weeks they fought; famed men on both sides fell,", "Till weariness on horse and foot befell."]}, {"id": "B1.14.1", "lines": ["One night as Zal sat speaking with his chiefs,", "Of Afrasiab they spoke and war’s deep griefs."]}, {"id": "B1.14.2", "lines": ["He said: “Though brave our men and sharp of mind,", "Without a Shah we drift, astray and blind."]}, {"id": "B1.14.3", "lines": ["The army is like a ship upon the sea,", "The Shah its wind and sail, its mastery."]}, {"id": "B1.14.4", "lines": ["A king must spring from Khosrow’s royal line,", "And keep the ancient wisdom as his sign."]}, {"id": "B1.14.5", "lines": ["We lack not strength, nor warriors proved in fight,", "But none without true wisdom claims the right."]}, {"id": "B1.14.6", "lines": ["If Tus and Gostaham possessed the farr,", "The crown might rest on one beneath that star."]}, {"id": "B1.14.7", "lines": ["The crown demands a man of royal birth,", "With divine farr and wisdom proving worth.”"]}, {"id": "B1.14.8", "lines": ["They searched the line of Fereydoon again,", "And found but one fit heir among all men:"]}, {"id": "B1.14.9", "lines": ["Zav, the son of Tahmasp, of noble line,", "His might Kayanian, farhang his sign."]}, {"id": "B1.14.10", "lines": ["Then Gharan rode with chosen men of fame,", "To bear to Zav the summons and his claim:"]}, {"id": "B1.14.11", "lines": ["A Mobad and a marzban rode beside,", "With chosen warriors gathered for the ride."]}, {"id": "B1.14.12", "lines": ["“In you the crown of Fereydoon shines bright;", "By Zal and all Iran, you hold the right.”"]}, {"id": "B1.14.13", "lines": ["On an auspicious day he took the throne,", "The Kayanian crown upon his brow was shown."]}, {"id": "B1.14.14", "lines": ["The mighty bowed, rich offerings were bestowed,", "And Zal himself the path of homage showed."]}, {"id": "B1.14.15", "lines": ["Though eighty years already marked his frame,", "He took Iran’s high throne and kingly name."]}, {"id": "B1.14.16", "lines": ["Five years he ruled with wisdom, calm, and care,", "And made the world seem young and just and fair."]}, {"id": "B1.14.17", "lines": ["He checked the army from all evil ways,", "His heart communed with pure Yazdan in praise."]}, {"id": "B1.14.18", "lines": ["No man was seized or bound beneath his reign,", "And little blood was shed upon the plain."]}, {"id": "B1.14.19", "lines": ["Then hardship came and famine gripped the land,", "The earth and plants grew thirsty on every hand."]}, {"id": "B1.14.20", "lines": ["A famine came: no rain, no drop of dew;", "The fields lay bare, no living green thing grew."]}, {"id": "B1.14.21", "lines": ["The herbs were parched, the soil was cracked and dry,", "And bread against a dirham men would buy."]}, {"id": "B1.14.22", "lines": ["Five months the armies faced each other still,", "And fought each day with hard, relentless will."]}, {"id": "B1.14.23", "lines": ["But famine drained their strength and broke their pride,", "Till warp and weft of both their armies died."]}, {"id": "B1.14.24", "lines": ["Then both sides cried: “The fault is ours alone;", "This suffering is the harvest we have sown.”"]}, {"id": "B1.14.25", "lines": ["At last an envoy came to Zav and said:", "“This passing world has filled our lives with dread."]}, {"id": "B1.14.26", "lines": ["Let us divide the earth in fair accord,", "And bless each other, sheathing every sword.”"]}, {"id": "B1.14.27", "lines": ["The famous chiefs let warfare leave their mind;", "Their hardship left no time for war behind."]}, {"id": "B1.14.28", "lines": ["Both sides agreed no ancient feud to keep,", "Nor wake old hatreds from their buried sleep."]}, {"id": "B1.14.29", "lines": ["They set the bounds as justice would decree,", "And let the quarrels of the past now be."]}, {"id": "B1.14.30", "lines": ["From Jihun east toward Chin and Khutan’s bound,", "They marked the lands where Turan’s rule was found."]}, {"id": "B1.14.31", "lines": ["These regions fell to Turan’s ruling might,", "As part of that agreed and settled right."]}, {"id": "B1.14.32", "lines": ["Where khargah tents began, Zal stayed his hand,", "And pressed no farther into Turan’s land."]}, {"id": "B1.14.33", "lines": ["From Turan’s side no Turk might cross the bound,", "So each realm kept the limits they had found."]}, {"id": "B1.14.34", "lines": ["Thus were the borders fixed and conflict stilled,", "And long with peace the weary world was filled."]}, {"id": "B1.14.35", "lines": ["Then aged Zav led Iran’s ranks to Pars;", "Though old, he made earth young beneath the stars."]}, {"id": "B1.14.36", "lines": ["While Zal returned to Zabul’s guarded height,", "The people welcomed him with hearts made light."]}, {"id": "B1.14.37", "lines": ["Throughout the world men clasped each other then,", "And peace restored the bonds between all men."]}, {"id": "B1.14.38", "lines": ["The thunder through the mountains rolled and roared;", "Earth’s scent and color were again restored."]}, {"id": "B1.14.39", "lines": ["The land grew green with streams and blooming pride,", "Renewed in beauty like a youthful bride."]}, {"id": "B1.14.40", "lines": ["When men assume the leopard’s savage way,", "Time darkens and their ease is swept away."]}, {"id": "B1.14.41", "lines": ["Zav gathered chiefs and gave his thanks to God,", "Who turned the barren fields to fruitful sod."]}, {"id": "B1.14.42", "lines": ["The key to plenty born from hardship’s hour", "Lay in the World-Creator’s sovereign power."]}, {"id": "B1.14.43", "lines": ["They held great feasts and cast aside their hate,", "And drove out feud that once had ruled their fate."]}, {"id": "B1.14.44", "lines": ["For five full years of Zav’s appointed reign,", "No further hardship touched the fertile plain."]}, {"id": "B1.14.45", "lines": ["Then Time grew weary of the reign of right,", "And longed once more to feel the lion’s might."]}, {"id": "B1.14.46", "lines": ["When eighty-six years weighed upon his frame,", "The Sun-like ruler withered all the same."]}, {"id": "B1.14.47", "lines": ["Then Iran’s fortune slowed and lost its glow,", "And just Zav died, and grief returned below."]}]}, {"id": "B2", "title": "Garshasp and the Transition to Kayanian Kingship", "summary": "4 sections · 253 couplets", "path": "/poem/b2/", "couplets": [{"id": "B2.1.1", "lines": ["Zav had a son, Garshasp, of royal birth,", "His father gave that name to him on earth."]}, {"id": "B2.1.2", "lines": ["He took his father’s throne and royal place,", "The Kayanian crown and farr adorned his face."]}, {"id": "B2.1.3", "lines": ["With beauty and with farr he ruled the land,", "And kept Iran secure beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "B2.1.4", "lines": ["When word of Zav’s death reached Turan that day,", "He launched his ship and set his course for Rey."]}, {"id": "B2.1.5", "lines": ["But Pashang gave no greeting, stern and cold,", "His heart still burned with grief no words could hold."]}, {"id": "B2.1.6", "lines": ["For Aghriras, his son, unjustly slain,", "Had filled his soul with bitterness and pain."]}, {"id": "B2.1.7", "lines": ["He turned away from Afrasiab in hate,", "And would not see him nor his shameful state."]}, {"id": "B2.1.8", "lines": ["Though messengers went often to his door,", "Through month and year Pashang would meet no more."]}, {"id": "B2.1.9", "lines": ["“Whatever king may rise to rule the land,", "Aghriras was fit support at his right hand."]}, {"id": "B2.1.10", "lines": ["I sent you forth against the foreign foe;", "You brought your brother only grief and woe."]}, {"id": "B2.1.11", "lines": ["But you have slain your kin in ruthless pride;", "I cast you off, and from your sight I hide.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.12", "lines": ["The tree of calamity bore fruit full-grown,", "Bitter colocynth from hatred sown."]}, {"id": "B2.1.13", "lines": ["That year Garshasp, son of Zav, passed away,", "And fortune showed its ever-changing way."]}, {"id": "B2.1.14", "lines": ["The word spread wide: “The throne of kings stands bare!”", "And fear and turmoil filled the heavy air."]}, {"id": "B2.1.15", "lines": ["Then Pashang sent a hard and stony word,", "And Afrasiab the bitter message heard."]}, {"id": "B2.1.16", "lines": ["Though still estranged, he sent this stern command:", "“Turn once again against Iranian land."]}, {"id": "B2.1.17", "lines": ["Cross Jihun now and raise your army’s might;", "Let no new Shah ascend to claim the right.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.18", "lines": ["Afrasiab arrayed his gathered band,", "From Sipanjab’s broad plain to river strand."]}, {"id": "B2.1.19", "lines": ["The earth seemed heaven moving overhead;", "From Indian swords rained souls among the dead."]}, {"id": "B2.1.20", "lines": ["That famous army, drawn in battle line,", "Advanced toward war beneath its banners’ sign."]}, {"id": "B2.1.21", "lines": ["The rumor reached Iran: “A claimant nears;", "A buyer for the royal throne appears.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.22", "lines": ["The throne stood empty; hope grew faint and dim,", "And all Iran grew dark with fear of him."]}, {"id": "B2.1.23", "lines": ["In every lane and quarter rose a roar;", "From all Iran the cry swelled more and more."]}, {"id": "B2.1.24", "lines": ["Toward Zabulistan then the people turned,", "And all the world with anxious rumor burned."]}, {"id": "B2.1.25", "lines": ["At Zabul all their voices turned to Zal,", "That Pahlevan whose strength sustained them all."]}, {"id": "B2.1.26", "lines": ["They cried: “You held the world too lightly still;", "Now danger rises hard against our will."]}, {"id": "B2.1.27", "lines": ["Since you have borne great Sahm’s commanding place,", "Our hearts have known no calm nor settled grace."]}, {"id": "B2.1.28", "lines": ["When Zav had passed and Garshasp wore the crown,", "The wicked and their deeds were beaten down."]}, {"id": "B2.1.29", "lines": ["The world stands Shahless; all our ranks lie bare,", "No chief remains to shield us from despair."]}, {"id": "B2.1.30", "lines": ["A force has crossed Jihun; its dust conceals", "The very Sun beneath its rolling wheels."]}, {"id": "B2.1.31", "lines": ["If any remedy you know, make clear;", "For Afrasiab’s army presses near.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.32", "lines": ["Zal answered: “Since I girded manhood’s belt,", "No rider matched me in the blows I dealt."]}, {"id": "B2.1.33", "lines": ["Wherever I set firm my foot in fight,", "The reins of other riders turned in flight."]}, {"id": "B2.1.34", "lines": ["No horseman set his foot in stirrup so,", "Nor bore my sword and gorz against the foe."]}, {"id": "B2.1.35", "lines": ["Through all my life I fought and did not tire,", "Yet now old age has worn away my fire."]}, {"id": "B2.1.36", "lines": ["My warrior’s back is bent now like a ring;", "The Kabuli khanjar is too hard to swing."]}, {"id": "B2.1.37", "lines": ["Yet praise to Yazdan: from my root is shown,", "A blessed, straight and fortunate branch grown."]}, {"id": "B2.1.38", "lines": ["Its head already rises toward the sky;", "When manhood comes, his worth no eye can deny."]}, {"id": "B2.1.39", "lines": ["Rostam now stands, a cypress tall and straight,", "The cap of greatness suits his lofty state."]}, {"id": "B2.1.40", "lines": ["But he must find a warhorse for the fight:", "These Tazi horses cannot bear his might."]}, {"id": "B2.1.41", "lines": ["I will seek an elephant-bodied steed,", "Then ask if Rostam joins us in our need."]}, {"id": "B2.1.42", "lines": ["I will ask him to gird himself and wage", "His war on Zadeshm’s seed with vengeful rage.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.43", "lines": ["The people’s hearts were gladdened at the word,", "And hope returned with all that they had heard."]}, {"id": "B2.1.44", "lines": ["Swift hiyuns raced through every distant land,", "While fighting riders armed at Zal’s command."]}, {"id": "B2.1.45", "lines": ["Then Zal addressed him: “Elephant-bodied son,", "Your height stands over every gathered one."]}, {"id": "B2.1.46", "lines": ["A heavy task now calls you from your rest,", "To leave your youth and take the warrior’s test."]}, {"id": "B2.1.47", "lines": ["You are not yet of age for such a field,", "Where lions fight and mighty warriors yield."]}, {"id": "B2.1.48", "lines": ["The scent of milk is still upon your breath;", "Your heart seeks joy, not battle’s dust and death."]}, {"id": "B2.1.49", "lines": ["How can I send you where the battle burns,", "Before such lions, whom no terror turns?"]}, {"id": "B2.1.50", "lines": ["Now speak your mind; what answer do you give?", "May honor guide you in the life you live.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.51", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “Have you forgot the day", "I proved my strength and drove all fear away?"]}, {"id": "B2.1.52", "lines": ["The elephant I slew; Mount Sepand fell;", "You saw your warrior son’s great strength full well."]}, {"id": "B2.1.53", "lines": ["If I should fear the son of Pashang now,", "Let no trace of my name survive my vow."]}, {"id": "B2.1.54", "lines": ["This is the hour for battle, not retreat;", "In war alone are heroes made complete."]}, {"id": "B2.1.55", "lines": ["A man becomes a lion by felling one,", "And seeking battle till the fight is won."]}, {"id": "B2.1.56", "lines": ["No woman wins a great and lasting name", "By eating, sleeping, living soft and tame.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.57", "lines": ["Zal answered: “Gallant youth, my pride and stay,", "My heart rejoices hearing what you say."]}, {"id": "B2.1.58", "lines": ["Mount Sepand and the white elephant’s fall", "Gave hope to me that you could answer all."]}, {"id": "B2.1.59", "lines": ["That former battle may have been less hard;", "These words of yours now set my heart on guard."]}, {"id": "B2.1.60", "lines": ["Bold Afrasiab’s deeds deny me sleep;", "How can I send you where his armies sweep?"]}, {"id": "B2.1.61", "lines": ["Your years are meant for feasting, rud, and wine,", "For heroic songs where cups and music shine."]}, {"id": "B2.1.62", "lines": ["Not battle where the dust in clouds takes flight,", "From earth to Moon it climbs and veils the light.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.63", "lines": ["He said: “I am not made for ease and rest;", "Such softness ill becomes the warlike breast."]}, {"id": "B2.1.64", "lines": ["These shoulders and these long, extended hands", "Were never raised for ease in sheltered lands."]}, {"id": "B2.1.65", "lines": ["Though vengeance brings a hard and bitter fight,", "Yazdan and victorious fortune aid my might."]}, {"id": "B2.1.66", "lines": ["In war you shall see me ride through blood-red rain,", "Upon a rose-hued charger through the slain."]}, {"id": "B2.1.67", "lines": ["A water-colored cloud rests in my hand,", "Its rain is blood across the fighting land."]}, {"id": "B2.1.68", "lines": ["Fire flashes from the substance of its head,", "And elephant brains beneath its blow are spread."]}, {"id": "B2.1.69", "lines": ["Whenever I draw cuirass for the fight,", "Time fears the quiver hanging at my right."]}, {"id": "B2.1.70", "lines": ["The steed that carries me to battle’s height,", "Must bear my arm, my neck, and all my might."]}, {"id": "B2.1.71", "lines": ["Such a horse must not fear ballista’s throw,", "Nor catapult when stones and missiles flow."]}, {"id": "B2.1.72", "lines": ["When down my spear inclines its head in fight,", "Stone’s heart grows red beneath its bloody bite."]}, {"id": "B2.1.73", "lines": ["I need a steed of power, fierce and strong,", "To bear my weight through battle all day long."]}, {"id": "B2.1.74", "lines": ["A charger like a lofty mountain’s height,", "That bears me when I bend the kamand tight."]}, {"id": "B2.1.75", "lines": ["It must endure my strength in battle’s course,", "Yet answer speed with speed and force with force."]}, {"id": "B2.1.76", "lines": ["I want a gorz like one great mountain mass,", "To smash the Turanian ranks that block my pass."]}, {"id": "B2.1.77", "lines": ["If Turan comes, I need no army’s aid;", "Blood-raining clouds shall darken every blade.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.78", "lines": ["Zal’s heart was stirred, his soul with anguish torn,", "On hearing every vow his son had sworn."]}, {"id": "B2.1.79", "lines": ["He said: “You have had your fill of rest and cup;", "I bring Sahm’s gorz; now take the heirloom up."]}, {"id": "B2.1.80", "lines": ["Bring Sahm’s great gorz from Mazandaran’s fight,", "That felled a raging elephant with might.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.81", "lines": ["From warrior Garshasp it came as heir,", "Through father after father into Sahm’s care."]}, {"id": "B2.1.82", "lines": ["When Rostam saw it, joy lit up his face,", "And blessings poured on Zal for gift and grace."]}, {"id": "B2.1.83", "lines": ["He said: “O Pahlevan of world-wide fame,", "Find one to bear my gorz, my farr, my frame.”"]}, {"id": "B2.1.84", "lines": ["Zal marveled at each word his son had said,", "And spoke Yazdan’s great name above his head."]}, {"id": "B2.2.1", "lines": ["When Zal had gathered all his herds of steeds,", "From Kabul too came horses of famed breeds."]}, {"id": "B2.2.2", "lines": ["The herdsmen drove them past in proud array,", "And read each royal brand aloud that day."]}, {"id": "B2.2.3", "lines": ["Whenever he grasped a horse, he pressed it down,", "Until its belly touched the very ground."]}, {"id": "B2.2.4", "lines": ["Their backs bent low beneath his testing hand,", "And every belly settled on the land."]}, {"id": "B2.2.5", "lines": ["At last there came a herd in motley hue,", "A flashing wave of horses swept in view."]}, {"id": "B2.2.6", "lines": ["Among them moved a white mare, swift and fleet,", "With lion’s chest and legs both short and neat."]}, {"id": "B2.2.7", "lines": ["Her ears like tempered khanjars, keen and bright,", "Full chest and mane, her slender waist drawn slight."]}, {"id": "B2.2.8", "lines": ["Behind her strode a colt of equal height,", "With chest and haunch well-balanced, firm, and tight."]}, {"id": "B2.2.9", "lines": ["Dark-eyed, bay-piebald, cow-tailed, fierce and fleet,", "Black-testicled, with steel beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "B2.2.10", "lines": ["His coat like saffron fields with roses spread,", "A living flame of gold and glowing red."]}, {"id": "B2.2.11", "lines": ["An ant on black felt could not shun his sight,", "Two farsangs distant in the depth of night."]}, {"id": "B2.2.12", "lines": ["His strength was like an elephant in might,", "His stature like a hiyun raised in height."]}, {"id": "B2.2.13", "lines": ["A lion’s courage filled his fearless frame,", "Like those at Bistoon famed for strength and fame."]}, {"id": "B2.2.14", "lines": ["When Rostam saw the colt, his heart was stirred;", "He bent his Kayan kamand without a word."]}, {"id": "B2.2.15", "lines": ["But then the aged herdsman cried: “Take heed!", "O chief, do not lay claim to another’s steed.”"]}, {"id": "B2.2.16", "lines": ["Rostam replied: “Whose mark is on his thigh?", "No fire-brand marks him for the passerby.”"]}, {"id": "B2.2.17", "lines": ["The herdsman said: “No owner’s brand appears,", "Yet tales of wonder have been told for years."]}, {"id": "B2.2.18", "lines": ["We call him Rakhsh, bay-piebald, fire in hue;", "No owner known; ‘Rostam’s Rakhsh’ was all we knew."]}, {"id": "B2.2.19", "lines": ["Three years he has stood prepared for saddle gear,", "The chosen of the great from year to year."]}, {"id": "B2.2.20", "lines": ["At sight of any rider’s cast kamand,", "His dam comes lion-like to make her stand."]}, {"id": "B2.2.21", "lines": ["We know not what strange secret binds the two;", "Do not circle this dragon; heed what is true."]}, {"id": "B2.2.22", "lines": ["She tears a lion’s heart, a leopard’s hide;", "No man should meet her fury stride for stride.”"]}, {"id": "B2.2.23", "lines": ["The warning entered Rostam’s mind, but still", "He cast Kayanian kamand with iron will."]}, {"id": "B2.2.24", "lines": ["Then like a maddened elephant she sped,", "To tear with furious teeth at Rostam’s head."]}, {"id": "B2.2.25", "lines": ["But Rostam roared as lions roar in fight,", "Then struck her head and neck with all his might."]}, {"id": "B2.2.26", "lines": ["She fell and shook, then rose in sudden dread,", "And, head held low, among the herd she fled."]}, {"id": "B2.2.27", "lines": ["He tightened the kamand with all his force,", "Then pressed one mighty hand upon the horse."]}, {"id": "B2.2.28", "lines": ["The colt stood firm; his back would never bow,", "As though he scarcely felt the hero now."]}, {"id": "B2.2.29", "lines": ["Then Rostam thought: “This is the steed I planned;", "Now all the work of battle fills my hand.”"]}, {"id": "B2.2.30", "lines": ["He mounted like the wind upon his back,", "The rose-hued colt flew down the open track."]}, {"id": "B2.2.31", "lines": ["He asked: “What price is set upon this steed?", "Who knows what sum the owner has decreed?”"]}, {"id": "B2.2.32", "lines": ["The herdsman said: “If Rostam is your name,", "Turn straight toward Iran and earn your fame."]}, {"id": "B2.2.33", "lines": ["The price of Rakhsh is Iran, all its ground;", "Upon his back set right the world around.”"]}, {"id": "B2.2.34", "lines": ["His coral lips broke open in delight:", "“From Yazdan comes all good.” He saddled for the fight."]}, {"id": "B2.2.35", "lines": ["Swift-gaited, stout of heart, of worthy name,", "He bore the cuirass, helm, gorz, Rostam’s frame."]}, {"id": "B2.2.36", "lines": ["Each night they burned espand against all blight;", "On left and right men spoke of magic’s might."]}, {"id": "B2.2.37", "lines": ["Zal’s heart bloomed like the spring at horse and heir;", "He scattered dinars, careless when or where."]}, {"id": "B2.3.1", "lines": ["A bead was struck in bowl on elephant’s back,", "Its voice rolled several mil along the track."]}, {"id": "B2.3.2", "lines": ["The koust resounded, karnays split the sky,", "And elephants bore Indian daray high."]}, {"id": "B2.3.3", "lines": ["From Zabul Resurrection rose and cried:", "“Rise, sleeping earth!”; the call rang far and wide."]}, {"id": "B2.3.4", "lines": ["An army surged like lions toward the fray,", "Their hands washed red with blood along the way."]}, {"id": "B2.3.5", "lines": ["In front rode Rostam, valor’s very seal,", "Behind, the chiefs in battle-hardened steel."]}, {"id": "B2.3.6", "lines": ["Across each vale and meadow stretched the force,", "No crow could find above an open course."]}, {"id": "B2.3.7", "lines": ["The tabiras thundered through the martial roar,", "Till head from foot could be discerned no more."]}, {"id": "B2.3.8", "lines": ["Thus Zal advanced as spring adorned the land,", "And led from Zabul all his gathered band."]}, {"id": "B2.3.9", "lines": ["When Afrasiab learned of Zal, aghast,", "His rest and food and sleep were from him cast."]}, {"id": "B2.3.10", "lines": ["Toward Khar of Rey he marched across the mead,", "And camped where water flowed among the reed."]}, {"id": "B2.3.11", "lines": ["Iranian forces crossed the desert way,", "And streamed toward battle through the dust all day."]}, {"id": "B2.3.12", "lines": ["When but two farsangs stretched between each side,", "Zal called the wise radan to stand beside:"]}, {"id": "B2.3.13", "lines": ["“O wise radan, world-tested in the fight,", "Whose counsel long has proved both sound and right,"]}, {"id": "B2.3.14", "lines": ["I have arrayed this mighty force today,", "And sought the good that leads us on our way."]}, {"id": "B2.3.15", "lines": ["Yet without Shah or throne our counsels spread;", "An army without kingship lacks its head."]}, {"id": "B2.3.16", "lines": ["When fortunate Zav sat upon the throne,", "New praise throughout the world arose and shone."]}, {"id": "B2.3.17", "lines": ["Iran now needs a Shah of Kayan seed,", "With Kayanian throne and girdle for the deed."]}, {"id": "B2.3.18", "lines": ["A learned Mobad showed the Shah we need,", "With royal farr and Kayan gorz decreed:"]}, {"id": "B2.3.19", "lines": ["Kay Qobad, sprung from Fereydoon’s great line,", "Whose farr, just rule, and kingly stature shine.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.1", "lines": ["Then Zal addressed his son with words of weight,", "“Take up your gorz; toward Alborz ride straight."]}, {"id": "B2.4.2", "lines": ["Choose worthy men and hasten on your quest,", "And bear our homage to the kingly guest."]}, {"id": "B2.4.3", "lines": ["Delay not there and turn with utmost speed;", "Let neither sleep nor idleness impede."]}, {"id": "B2.4.4", "lines": ["Within two weeks be back before my sight;", "Press onward; do not halt for rest or night."]}, {"id": "B2.4.5", "lines": ["Say: ‘All Iran awaits your sovereign hand;", "No worthier ruler lives in any land."]}, {"id": "B2.4.6", "lines": ["The throne and Kayan crown await your reign;", "Come rescue Iran and end her grief and pain.’”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.7", "lines": ["When Zal had spoken, Rostam bowed his head;", "His lashes swept the dust; then off Rakhsh sped."]}, {"id": "B2.4.8", "lines": ["Turanian pickets barred the mountain way,", "But he rode forth and drove them to the fray."]}, {"id": "B2.4.9", "lines": ["He raised his ox-headed gorz in wrath and might,", "And struck as thunder cleaves the clouds in flight."]}, {"id": "B2.4.10", "lines": ["Their ranks were broken; courage ebbed and died,", "The rest turned back and fled the battle tide."]}, {"id": "B2.4.11", "lines": ["Beneath his blows the Turkish courage broke,", "Their strength dissolved beneath each crushing stroke."]}, {"id": "B2.4.12", "lines": ["No outpost held where Rostam drove ahead;", "The road lay open as the riders fled."]}, {"id": "B2.4.13", "lines": ["The routed riders fled with hearts of blood,", "Their streaming eyes poured tears as from a flood."]}, {"id": "B2.4.14", "lines": ["They told Afrasiab what had been done,", "How one fierce rider broke them, one by one."]}, {"id": "B2.4.15", "lines": ["He mourned their loss and summoned Kulun then,", "A cunning chief among his chosen men."]}, {"id": "B2.4.16", "lines": ["“Take horsemen strong and guard the mountain way;", "Be watchful lest the foe should seize the day."]}, {"id": "B2.4.17", "lines": ["Be brave and wise; keep constant watch by night,", "And let no heedless hour escape your sight."]}, {"id": "B2.4.18", "lines": ["These crafty men of Iran strike unseen;", "Their sudden raids are swift, their purpose keen.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.19", "lines": ["With guides before him Kulun moved ahead,", "While chosen horsemen followed where he led."]}, {"id": "B2.4.20", "lines": ["With elephants and men in ordered rank,", "He sealed the mountain pass from flank to flank."]}, {"id": "B2.4.21", "lines": ["Meanwhile bold Rostam pressed along the way,", "To seek the Shah before the close of day."]}, {"id": "B2.4.22", "lines": ["One mil away from Alborz’ lofty height,", "He saw a royal court in splendor bright."]}, {"id": "B2.4.23", "lines": ["Tall trees stood thick beside the flowing stream,", "And youthful nobles rested in its gleam."]}, {"id": "B2.4.24", "lines": ["A golden seat beside the stream was laid,", "And musk and rosewater around it sprayed."]}, {"id": "B2.4.25", "lines": ["A moon-faced youth sat shining in the shade,", "Upon the golden throne his place was made."]}, {"id": "B2.4.26", "lines": ["Warriors stood around in ordered file,", "Their belts were fastened in the nobles’ style."]}, {"id": "B2.4.27", "lines": ["Their court was fair as gardens in the spring,", "A place befitting some celestial king."]}, {"id": "B2.4.28", "lines": ["They saw him come and rose from shaded ground,", "Then hurried forth and gathered him around."]}, {"id": "B2.4.29", "lines": ["They said, “We are the hosts, and you our guest;", "Dismount and share with us a little rest."]}, {"id": "B2.4.30", "lines": ["Come, drink with us and let your cares depart;", "We honor chiefs renowned for strength and heart.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.31", "lines": ["Rostam replied, “O noble chiefs, now know:", "A weighty charge commands where I must go."]}, {"id": "B2.4.32", "lines": ["To Alborz I must ride without delay;", "A grave affair allows no rest or stay."]}, {"id": "B2.4.33", "lines": ["I have no time for pillow, ease, or play;", "A long hard road still calls me on my way."]}, {"id": "B2.4.34", "lines": ["Iran’s high throne is empty of its king;", "Until he comes, no wine can pleasure bring."]}, {"id": "B2.4.35", "lines": ["All Iran stands encircled now by foes,", "And grief through every street and province grows."]}, {"id": "B2.4.36", "lines": ["In every house the voice of mourning spreads,", "While Shahless Iran bows beneath its dreads."]}, {"id": "B2.4.37", "lines": ["I seek Kay Qobad; show me where to ride,", "And point the road that leads me to his side.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.38", "lines": ["The young men asked: “Whom do you seek today?", "What prince has drawn you toward Alborz this way?"]}, {"id": "B2.4.39", "lines": ["We know this mountain country, stream and plain;", "Speak plainly, chief; our guidance is not vain.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.40", "lines": ["Said Rostam: “One of Fereydoon’s just line,", "Kay Qobad, whose justice is his sign.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.41", "lines": ["Their leader said, “I know the prince you seek,", "And know the signs of whom you come to speak."]}, {"id": "B2.4.42", "lines": ["Dismount and share our bread beside the stream;", "Your presence here will make our spirits beam."]}, {"id": "B2.4.43", "lines": ["Then we will tell you how the prince is known,", "His signs and ways, his manner and his tone.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.44", "lines": ["At that, bold Rostam, swift as wind, stepped down,", "For now the road to Qobad had been found."]}, {"id": "B2.4.45", "lines": ["He crossed at once to where the river played,", "And took his place beneath the cooling shade."]}, {"id": "B2.4.46", "lines": ["The youthful lord upon the golden throne", "Took Rostam’s hand and made his welcome known."]}, {"id": "B2.4.47", "lines": ["With his free hand he filled a cup of wine,", "And drank in honor of the freeborn line."]}, {"id": "B2.4.48", "lines": ["He filled another cup and raised it high,", "Then gave it Rostam with a welcoming cry."]}, {"id": "B2.4.49", "lines": ["“You asked for Kay Qobad; who sent you here?", "Who spoke his name and bade you seek him near?”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.50", "lines": ["Said Rostam: “From my father Zal I ride,", "With news that all the nobles have allied."]}, {"id": "B2.4.51", "lines": ["The throne is decked; the chiefs now call your name,", "And bid you come to take your rightful claim."]}, {"id": "B2.4.52", "lines": ["My father, Zal, is foremost in the field;", "The chosen Pahlevan, Iran’s great shield."]}, {"id": "B2.4.53", "lines": ["He sent me toward Alborz with this command:", "Find brave Kay Qobad; take him by the hand."]}, {"id": "B2.4.54", "lines": ["I must salute him Shah and urge his ride;", "No needless hour may keep him from our side."]}, {"id": "B2.4.55", "lines": ["Iran’s great chiefs now call with one acclaim;", "The world grows bright at sound of his great name."]}, {"id": "B2.4.56", "lines": ["If you can point me toward the prince I seek,", "You help restore the realm, now worn and weak.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.57", "lines": ["The youth replied with laughter on his face:", "“I am that Shah, descended from that race."]}, {"id": "B2.4.58", "lines": ["I am Kay Qobad, from Fereydoon’s line;", "My fathers’ names through generations shine.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.59", "lines": ["Then Rostam rose and bowed in solemn awe,", "And honored him according to the law."]}, {"id": "B2.4.60", "lines": ["“O king of kings, the refuge of the great,", "May strength and wisdom guard your royal state."]}, {"id": "B2.4.61", "lines": ["May Iran’s throne be blessed beneath your care,", "And mighty elephants fall in your snare."]}, {"id": "B2.4.62", "lines": ["May throne and kingship prosper in your sight,", "And royal farr keep all your fortune bright."]}, {"id": "B2.4.63", "lines": ["I bear my father Zal’s salute to you,", "And bring his message faithfully and true."]}, {"id": "B2.4.64", "lines": ["If you permit, your servant now will say", "The words my father charged me to convey.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.65", "lines": ["Kay Qobad rose and listened, grave and still,", "Prepared to hear the message and its will."]}, {"id": "B2.4.66", "lines": ["Then Rostam gave Zal’s message, full and clear,", "And spoke each charge the prince was bound to hear."]}, {"id": "B2.4.67", "lines": ["The words had scarcely reached the listening king,", "Before his heart leapt like a bird in spring."]}, {"id": "B2.4.68", "lines": ["He filled a brimming cup of ruby wine,", "And drank to Rostam’s strength and noble line."]}, {"id": "B2.4.69", "lines": ["Then Rostam raised his cup to drink, and turned", "To bless the king in whom new hope now burned."]}, {"id": "B2.4.70", "lines": ["“In you Fereydoon’s blessed sign I see;", "My heart rejoices that you stand with me."]}, {"id": "B2.4.71", "lines": ["May throne and world forever hold you fast;", "May Kayan crown and kingship bloom and last.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.72", "lines": ["Then song rose high and low throughout the place;", "Joy filled the court, and sorrow lost its trace."]}, {"id": "B2.4.73", "lines": ["Then Kay Qobad said, “Hear the dream I saw,", "A vision bright that filled my heart with awe."]}, {"id": "B2.4.74", "lines": ["Two white-winged falcons crossed Iran’s bright sky,", "And bore a sun-bright crown as they flew by."]}, {"id": "B2.4.75", "lines": ["They came with grace and hovered by my bed,", "Then set the shining crown upon my head."]}, {"id": "B2.4.76", "lines": ["I woke with hope, the vision burning bright,", "The crown and falcons vivid in my sight."]}, {"id": "B2.4.77", "lines": ["So in this meadow I prepared my place,", "And formed a royal court with fitting grace."]}, {"id": "B2.4.78", "lines": ["Now you have come as that white falcon came,", "With crown and kingship carried in your name.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.79", "lines": ["Then Rostam heard the vision from the king,", "And weighed the omen borne on falcon wing."]}, {"id": "B2.4.80", "lines": ["He said, “Such dreams are signs the prophets knew;", "The crown and falcons show the omen true."]}, {"id": "B2.4.81", "lines": ["Rise now; together we must ride away,", "To join Iran’s great chiefs without delay.”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.82", "lines": ["Then Qobad sprang like fire and took his seat", "Upon his bay warhorse, both proud and fleet."]}, {"id": "B2.4.83", "lines": ["Then Rostam girded up and took his place,", "And rode with Qobad at a driving pace."]}, {"id": "B2.4.84", "lines": ["They rode and never paused to sleep or rest,", "Till Turan’s outposts barred the mountain crest."]}, {"id": "B2.4.85", "lines": ["When Kulun learned the royal pair drew near,", "He rushed like fire to battle without fear."]}, {"id": "B2.4.86", "lines": ["The Shah would set his ranks in war’s array,", "But Rostam said, “Stand back, my king, and stay:"]}, {"id": "B2.4.87", "lines": ["This battle is no work for you, my king;", "Stand back and watch what Rakhsh and I shall bring."]}, {"id": "B2.4.88", "lines": ["With Rakhsh, my gorz, his bargostvan, my hand,", "I need no other force to break their band."]}, {"id": "B2.4.89", "lines": ["My heart, my arm, my gorz are force enough;", "I need no shield from men however tough."]}, {"id": "B2.4.90", "lines": ["Yazdan alone protects me in the fight;", "With rose-hued Rakhsh, who stands against my might?”"]}, {"id": "B2.4.91", "lines": ["He spurred ahead and struck with all his strength;", "One rider tumbled lifeless at full length."]}, {"id": "B2.4.92", "lines": ["He seized one rider, swung him from his place,", "And struck another full across the face."]}, {"id": "B2.4.93", "lines": ["From shattered noses brains and blood were shed,", "As riders toppled from their saddles dead."]}, {"id": "B2.4.94", "lines": ["He plucked mailed warriors from the saddle high,", "And hurled them broken on the earth nearby."]}, {"id": "B2.4.95", "lines": ["Heads, necks, and backs gave way beneath his hand;", "No mounted chief could firmly make a stand."]}, {"id": "B2.4.96", "lines": ["To Kulun, mighty Rostam seemed a Div dread,", "His gorz and kamand raised above his head."]}, {"id": "B2.4.97", "lines": ["Then Kulun charged; his spear the jowshan found,", "And tore apart its clasp, the scales unbound."]}, {"id": "B2.4.98", "lines": ["But Rostam seized the shaft with iron grip,", "And Kulun stared to see the spear not slip."]}, {"id": "B2.4.99", "lines": ["He wrenched the spear from Kulun’s straining hand,", "And roared like thunder rolling through the land."]}, {"id": "B2.4.100", "lines": ["Then with the spear he struck and raised him high,", "And planted its butt; Kulun hung awry."]}, {"id": "B2.4.101", "lines": ["Upon the spear he hung in open sight,", "Like bird upon a spit held firm and tight."]}, {"id": "B2.4.102", "lines": ["Then Rakhsh came on and trampled Kulun’s head,", "His brains were scattered where his body bled."]}, {"id": "B2.4.103", "lines": ["The Turanian ranks broke up and fled in fear,", "Their fortune darkened as the Shah drew near."]}, {"id": "B2.4.104", "lines": ["Beyond the rout he struck the pickets dead,", "Then toward the mountain road he swiftly sped."]}, {"id": "B2.4.105", "lines": ["He reached a meadow where clear waters flowed,", "And there dismounted from the mountain road."]}, {"id": "B2.4.106", "lines": ["Until the daylight faded from the plain,", "He made all ready for the royal train."]}, {"id": "B2.4.107", "lines": ["He brought Pahlavi robes and crown to light,", "And chose the royal steed for that same night."]}, {"id": "B2.4.108", "lines": ["When darkness fell, the watchful chief arrayed", "The Shah in royal dress, his crown displayed."]}, {"id": "B2.4.109", "lines": ["In silence Rostam brought the Shah away,", "And reached old Zal unseen before the day."]}, {"id": "B2.4.110", "lines": ["For seven days they sat in close debate,", "While Mobadan weighed needs of crown and state."]}, {"id": "B2.4.111", "lines": ["They found no king like Qobad in their quest,", "Revealed or hidden, he surpassed the rest."]}, {"id": "B2.4.112", "lines": ["Another week they feasted round the king,", "With wine and song until the halls would ring."]}, {"id": "B2.4.113", "lines": ["On the eighth day they raised the crown on high,", "And set the ivory throne beneath the sky."]}]}, {"id": "B3", "title": "Kay Qobad", "summary": "5 sections · 237 couplets", "path": "/poem/b3/", "couplets": [{"id": "B3.1.1", "lines": ["When Kay Qobad ascended to the throne,", "And claimed the ancient crown and realm his own,"]}, {"id": "B3.1.2", "lines": ["The chiefs drew near: brave Zal and Gharan bold,", "With Keshvad, Kharrad, Barzin famed of old."]}, {"id": "B3.1.3", "lines": ["They scattered gems upon the new-made crown,", "And hailed the Shah whose rule would win renown."]}, {"id": "B3.1.4", "lines": ["They said: “O king, prepare your men to fight;", "The troops of Turan thunder into sight.”"]}, {"id": "B3.1.5", "lines": ["He heard their words, then turned his gaze that day", "On Afrasiab and all his vast array."]}, {"id": "B3.1.6", "lines": ["Next day they marched; from royal tents the cry", "Of battle rose and thundered to the sky."]}, {"id": "B3.1.7", "lines": ["Then Rostam armed, his heart aflame for fight,", "And rose like a raging elephant in might."]}, {"id": "B3.1.8", "lines": ["Iranian ranks were ordered for the fray,", "And girded themselves for bloodshed that day."]}, {"id": "B3.1.9", "lines": ["On one wing stood Mehrab of Kabul’s band,", "Upon the other Gostaham took his stand."]}, {"id": "B3.1.10", "lines": ["Gharan held fast the center of the field,", "With Keshvad near, whose foes were made to yield."]}, {"id": "B3.1.11", "lines": ["Before them Rostam led the van ahead,", "Behind him marched the chiefs where banners spread."]}, {"id": "B3.1.12", "lines": ["Behind them Zal and royal Qobad came,", "One hand bore wind, the other carried flame."]}, {"id": "B3.1.13", "lines": ["The Kaveh standard streamed before the fight,", "And dyed the world red, yellow, violet-bright."]}, {"id": "B3.1.14", "lines": ["The earth, packed thick with troops, became a ship,", "As waves from Chin’s great sea around it whip."]}, {"id": "B3.1.15", "lines": ["The plains were paved with shields in countless rows,", "And swords like lamps flashed where the battle rose."]}, {"id": "B3.1.16", "lines": ["The world became a sea of pitch to sight,", "A hundred thousand candles burned with light."]}, {"id": "B3.1.17", "lines": ["It seemed the Sun had lost its course on high,", "Confused by karnay-blast and battle-cry."]}, {"id": "B3.1.18", "lines": ["The armies clashed until, from far or near,", "No head nor foot within the ranks showed clear."]}, {"id": "B3.1.19", "lines": ["When Gharan saw the battle’s surging tide,", "He roared like thunder, lion-like, and cried."]}, {"id": "B3.1.20", "lines": ["Now left, now right, through warriors Gharan drove,", "Like lion through the ranks he fiercely strove."]}, {"id": "B3.1.21", "lines": ["With gorz and sword and long spear in his hand,", "He felled renowned chiefs throughout the band."]}, {"id": "B3.1.22", "lines": ["He heaped the slain like mountains through the fray,", "Till corpses rose in mounds along his way."]}, {"id": "B3.1.23", "lines": ["The Turanians quailed before his sweeping blade,", "Their weary strength gave way, their hearts dismayed."]}, {"id": "B3.1.24", "lines": ["Shamasas roared like a lion in the fight,", "And came to meet Gharan with all his might."]}, {"id": "B3.1.25", "lines": ["Gharan rushed forward, closing on his foe,", "And drew his sharpened sword to strike the blow."]}, {"id": "B3.1.26", "lines": ["His blade struck head and helmet; blood was shed,", "Then cried, “Gharan am I!” as blood ran red."]}, {"id": "B3.1.27", "lines": ["Thus Shamasas fell dead beneath the sky;", "Now bow, now arrow turns old heaven on high."]}, {"id": "B3.2.1", "lines": ["When Rostam saw the deeds that Gharan showed,", "He turned to Zal, his heart with ardor glowed:"]}, {"id": "B3.2.2", "lines": ["“O chief of chiefs, declare where stands the foe,", "That I may deal his pride a fatal blow."]}, {"id": "B3.2.3", "lines": ["I see a violet banner, bright and wide;", "Is that the sign beneath which he does ride?"]}, {"id": "B3.2.4", "lines": ["Describe his arms and where his standards rise,", "That I may know him surely with my eyes."]}, {"id": "B3.2.5", "lines": ["This day I swear his girdle I shall take,", "And drag him bound before you in my wake.”"]}, {"id": "B3.2.6", "lines": ["Then Zal replied: “Give heed, my son, and hear;", "Rush not to meet him, do not venture near."]}, {"id": "B3.2.7", "lines": ["He is a dragon breathing flame and death,", "A cloud of vengeance borne upon his breath."]}, {"id": "B3.2.8", "lines": ["His standard black, his jowshan black as night,", "Iron his helm and armguards, gold-faced bright."]}, {"id": "B3.2.9", "lines": ["Gold gleams on iron; black his helmet’s sign;", "His fortune wakes, his courage holds the line."]}, {"id": "B3.2.10", "lines": ["Take care, my son, and guard yourself with skill;", "His strength is great, his fortune wakeful still.”"]}, {"id": "B3.2.11", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “Let care for me depart;", "No fear of him can turn my steadfast heart."]}, {"id": "B3.2.12", "lines": ["The World-Creator stands with me in fight;", "My heart, sword, arm are fortress for my might.”"]}, {"id": "B3.2.13", "lines": ["He urged his bronze-hoofed Rakhsh against them fast;", "The gavdam horn gave forth its brazen blast."]}, {"id": "B3.2.14", "lines": ["He thundered through the Turanian ranks with cries,", "And raised the dust in clouds across the skies."]}, {"id": "B3.2.15", "lines": ["Afrasiab watched the stripling drawing near,", "And marveled at his strength without a peer."]}, {"id": "B3.2.16", "lines": ["He said: “Who rides so fierce, with none to check,", "A dragon loosed, no rein upon his neck?”"]}, {"id": "B3.2.17", "lines": ["They answered: “He is Zal’s own mighty son,", "From Sahm’s great line, the first beneath the Sun."]}, {"id": "B3.2.18", "lines": ["Behold the gorz that mighty Sahm once bore;", "Though young, he longs to prove himself in war.”"]}, {"id": "B3.2.19", "lines": ["Like ship a rising wave lifts from the spray,", "Afrasiab rode forth into the fray."]}, {"id": "B3.2.20", "lines": ["Then Rostam pressed his thighs on Rakhsh with force,", "And raised the heavy gorz above his horse."]}, {"id": "B3.2.21", "lines": ["He lowered his gorz against the saddle side,", "Then grappled Afrasiab in his pride."]}, {"id": "B3.2.22", "lines": ["He seized the king’s waistband amid the fray,", "And lifted him clean from the saddle’s stay."]}, {"id": "B3.2.23", "lines": ["He strove to bear him captive from the fight,", "And lay him bound before Kay Qobad’s sight."]}, {"id": "B3.2.24", "lines": ["But weight and strain together broke the band;", "The girdle snapped and slipped from Rostam’s hand."]}, {"id": "B3.2.25", "lines": ["Afrasiab fell headlong to the ground,", "His chiefs rushed forth and gathered close around."]}, {"id": "B3.2.26", "lines": ["On foot they bore him swiftly from the field,", "And formed around their king a living shield."]}, {"id": "B3.2.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam bit his hand in bitter grief,", "And cursed the chance that brought the king relief:"]}, {"id": "B3.2.28", "lines": ["“Why did I not seize underneath his arm,", "But trust his girdle and release him from harm?”"]}, {"id": "B3.2.29", "lines": ["The elephant-bell rang loudly through the field,", "The koust for several mil its thunder pealed."]}, {"id": "B3.2.30", "lines": ["A messenger sped toward the royal throne,", "With joyful news of glorious deeds now known:"]}, {"id": "B3.2.31", "lines": ["“Rostam has cleft the center of their band,", "And cast Turan’s king headlong on the land."]}, {"id": "B3.2.32", "lines": ["His chiefs retrieved him; then in headlong flight", "He left his army, fleeing from the fight.”"]}, {"id": "B3.2.33", "lines": ["Kay Qobad cried: “Advance with all your force;", "Fall like the wind and drive them from their course!"]}, {"id": "B3.2.34", "lines": ["Now strike the broken foe with spear and bow,", "And root and branch together overthrow.”"]}, {"id": "B3.2.35", "lines": ["He rose like fire and led them to the fray,", "His army surged like wind-tossed seas that day."]}, {"id": "B3.2.36", "lines": ["With Zal and Mehrab pressing at his side,", "They struck with force no mortal could abide."]}, {"id": "B3.2.37", "lines": ["Bright khanjars flashed amid the battle’s cries,", "While shafts and arrows struck beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B3.2.38", "lines": ["Gold helms and golden shields split under blows,", "And warriors reeled wherever axes rose."]}, {"id": "B3.2.39", "lines": ["It seemed a cloud arose above the fight,", "And cinnabar stained citron red and bright."]}, {"id": "B3.2.40", "lines": ["Blood sank to Fish while dust climbed to the Moon,", "And day itself was lost in battle’s gloom."]}, {"id": "B3.2.41", "lines": ["Beneath the horses’ hooves in battle’s weight,", "Earth became six and heaven became eight."]}, {"id": "B3.2.42", "lines": ["Then Zal beheld his son’s renowned right arm,", "His mighty chest held firm against alarm."]}, {"id": "B3.2.43", "lines": ["He cleft and tore and broke and bound the foe,", "Heads, chests, hands, feet were ruined by his blow."]}, {"id": "B3.2.44", "lines": ["Eleven hundred sixty warriors died,", "Slain in one charge beneath his sweeping stride."]}, {"id": "B3.2.45", "lines": ["Then Zal beheld his son in glory stand,", "His heart beat fast with joy at Rostam’s hand."]}, {"id": "B3.2.46", "lines": ["The Turanians fled, their lines in wild dismay,", "And sought escape along the beaten way."]}, {"id": "B3.2.47", "lines": ["Toward Damaghan they turned in scattered flight,", "Then fled to Jihun, broken in their might."]}, {"id": "B3.2.48", "lines": ["Their weapons broke, their girdles hung in shreds;", "No horn, no koust, no feet, no ordered heads."]}, {"id": "B3.2.49", "lines": ["The Iranian chiefs withdrew their force,", "And came before the Shah along their course."]}, {"id": "B3.2.50", "lines": ["They gathered spoils and captives from the field,", "And brought the captured Turks with wealth revealed."]}, {"id": "B3.2.51", "lines": ["The great Iranian army reached the Shah,", "And hailed Kay Qobad with triumphant awe."]}, {"id": "B3.2.52", "lines": ["Then Rostam too before the monarch came,", "Exalted high in honor and in name."]}, {"id": "B3.2.53", "lines": ["The Shah received him with distinguished grace,", "And called the youthful champion to his place."]}, {"id": "B3.2.54", "lines": ["On one side Rostam sat beside the throne,", "On the other famous Zal, to honor shown."]}, {"id": "B3.3.1", "lines": ["Upon Turan’s side Afrasiab fled,", "Beyond the riverbank in grief and dread."]}, {"id": "B3.3.2", "lines": ["For seven days beside the stream he stayed,", "Then on the eighth toward Pashang’s court he made."]}, {"id": "B3.3.3", "lines": ["He hastened to his father, grim in thought,", "His tongue with words, his heart with care was fraught."]}, {"id": "B3.3.4", "lines": ["“O king,” he cried, “the fault was yours alone;", "You sought this war where judgment should have shone."]}, {"id": "B3.3.5", "lines": ["The kings of old broke neither pact nor word;", "Such faithlessness in royal men was never heard."]}, {"id": "B3.3.6", "lines": ["The world is not yet free of Iraj’s line;", "Nor poison turned to cure by fate’s design."]}, {"id": "B3.3.7", "lines": ["One ruler falls; another takes command;", "The world is never left without one hand."]}, {"id": "B3.3.8", "lines": ["Now Kay Qobad has set the crown in place,", "And opened vengeance’s door before his face."]}, {"id": "B3.3.9", "lines": ["From Sahm’s great house a mighty warrior came,", "Whom Dastan blessed and Rostam was his name."]}, {"id": "B3.3.10", "lines": ["Like a fierce nahang he came with burning breath,", "As though the world itself would scorch to death."]}, {"id": "B3.3.11", "lines": ["He stormed through hill and valley, plain and height,", "And struck with gorz and sword throughout the fight."]}, {"id": "B3.3.12", "lines": ["His gorz tore through the air with every thrust;", "My life seemed worth no more than handfuls of dust."]}, {"id": "B3.3.13", "lines": ["He crushed our train; no man had seen before", "Such dreadful force unleashed in savage war."]}, {"id": "B3.3.14", "lines": ["He marked my banner, heavy gorz held low,", "And through the crowded press he came, my foe."]}, {"id": "B3.3.15", "lines": ["He tore me from my saddle with such ease;", "I weighed no more than a mosquito on the breeze."]}, {"id": "B3.3.16", "lines": ["My girdle snapped, my robe-clasp broke apart,", "I fell beneath his feet with failing heart."]}, {"id": "B3.3.17", "lines": ["No lion bears such strength in bone and frame;", "His feet touch earth, his head the clouds may claim."]}, {"id": "B3.3.18", "lines": ["My warriors rushed and snatched me from his hold,", "Before that chunk of mountain, hard and cold."]}, {"id": "B3.3.19", "lines": ["You know my arm, my courage, and my skill,", "My fame in war, my fierce and dauntless will;"]}, {"id": "B3.3.20", "lines": ["Yet in his grasp I seemed a mosquito,", "And marveled at the creature holding me so."]}, {"id": "B3.3.21", "lines": ["Elephant-bodied, lion-clawed in might,", "He towers like a mountain in the fight."]}, {"id": "B3.3.22", "lines": ["No pause, no thought, no counsel checks his way;", "No doubt or hesitation makes him stay."]}, {"id": "B3.3.23", "lines": ["He gives the rein to Rakhsh and drives his course;", "Hill, cave, and road are one beneath that horse."]}, {"id": "B3.3.24", "lines": ["More than a thousand gorz then struck his frame,", "Yet none could dim his strength or quench his flame."]}, {"id": "B3.3.25", "lines": ["Of iron, stone, and bronze he seemed to be,", "A form no mortal strength could make to flee."]}, {"id": "B3.3.26", "lines": ["What sea or mountain differs in his sight?", "What lion or mad elephant stops his might?"]}, {"id": "B3.3.27", "lines": ["He rides to war as hunters seek their prey,", "And battle serves him merely as a play."]}, {"id": "B3.3.28", "lines": ["Had Sahm possessed such might in days of old,", "No Turanian chief would now his life still hold."]}, {"id": "B3.3.29", "lines": ["We must seek peace, for none can match his power;", "Our warriors fall and break in battle’s hour."]}, {"id": "B3.3.30", "lines": ["I am your world-conqueror, your army’s stay,", "Your refuge when hard fortune barred the way."]}, {"id": "B3.3.31", "lines": ["Yet I have no strength left against this foe;", "Take counsel now and let the warfare go."]}, {"id": "B3.3.32", "lines": ["The lands assigned by Fereydoon to Tur", "Are ours by right and certain to endure."]}, {"id": "B3.3.33", "lines": ["Revive not feuds that time had laid to rest,", "Nor stir again the serpent in its nest."]}, {"id": "B3.3.34", "lines": ["If we press on beyond the boundary line,", "We make the world itself around us confine."]}, {"id": "B3.3.35", "lines": ["What eye has seen is stronger far than tale;", "Report is wind, but witness shall not fail."]}, {"id": "B3.3.36", "lines": ["This war with Iran seemed to you a game;", "That sport prolonged the struggle and our shame."]}, {"id": "B3.3.37", "lines": ["Delay no task that calls for action now;", "Who knows what fate tomorrow may allow?"]}, {"id": "B3.3.38", "lines": ["The garden bears its flower for us today;", "Tomorrow we may seek and find it swept away."]}, {"id": "B3.3.39", "lines": ["Behold the wealth now scattered on the field:", "The golden arms and steeds no man could shield."]}, {"id": "B3.3.40", "lines": ["Bright helms of gold and shields of gleaming light,", "And Indian blades in golden sheaths shone bright."]}, {"id": "B3.3.41", "lines": ["Arabian steeds with golden bits are gone,", "And famed warriors swept away and trodden on."]}, {"id": "B3.3.42", "lines": ["Kulbad is gone, and Barman, lion’s bane,", "And Khazarvan, whom Zal’s great gorz has slain."]}, {"id": "B3.3.43", "lines": ["Fierce Shamasas, our refuge and our shield,", "Fell slain before Gharan, upon the field."]}, {"id": "B3.3.44", "lines": ["And more than ten thousand warriors were laid low,", "The finest men that Turan’s lands could show."]}, {"id": "B3.3.45", "lines": ["Worse yet, dishonor marks us with its stain;", "No healing art can ease this lasting pain."]}, {"id": "B3.3.46", "lines": ["Though I slew wise Aghriras, known to fame,", "That virtuous death still burdens all my name."]}, {"id": "B3.3.47", "lines": ["Now weigh what Time returns for good and ill,", "Today, tomorrow, turning as it will."]}, {"id": "B3.3.48", "lines": ["The chiefs came, standards streaming in their train,", "And told how I fled humbled from the plain."]}, {"id": "B3.3.49", "lines": ["Recall not now the memory of old hate,", "But seek accord with Qobad before too late."]}, {"id": "B3.3.50", "lines": ["Else armies gather round on every road;", "From all four sides they press a crushing load."]}, {"id": "B3.3.51", "lines": ["On one side Rostam shines like radiant Sun,", "With gorz and sword and farr surpassed by none."]}, {"id": "B3.3.52", "lines": ["On one stands Gharan, never known to yield,", "Whose eye has never seen defeat in field."]}, {"id": "B3.3.53", "lines": ["On one stands Keshvad, golden-helmed and bold,", "Who broke the force at Amol’s gates of old."]}, {"id": "B3.3.54", "lines": ["On one stands Mehrab, Kabul’s lord and guide,", "With farr and judgment, armies at his side.”"]}, {"id": "B3.4.1", "lines": ["Chief of Turan, Pashang, with tearful eyes,", "Looked on Afrasiab in shocked surprise."]}, {"id": "B3.4.2", "lines": ["That Afrasiab spoke of justice showed", "His heart had turned from war’s destructive road."]}, {"id": "B3.4.3", "lines": ["He chose an envoy, prudent, tried, and sound,", "And charged him there, the nobles gathered round."]}, {"id": "B3.4.4", "lines": ["He wrote an Artang-like and splendid scroll,", "A hundred colors graced it, whole on whole:"]}, {"id": "B3.4.5", "lines": ["“In name of Him who rules the moon and sun,", "Who set creation on its ordered run,"]}, {"id": "B3.4.6", "lines": ["May peace embrace great Fereydoon’s pure shade,", "Whose warp and weft our lineage have made."]}, {"id": "B3.4.7", "lines": ["Hear me, O Kay Qobad, renowned in might,", "And mark these words of kingship and of right."]}, {"id": "B3.4.8", "lines": ["For Tur first sinned to seize the royal throne,", "When Iraj fell through evil he had sown."]}, {"id": "B3.4.9", "lines": ["Let not that ancient quarrel keep its root,", "Nor bear again its bitter, poisoned fruit."]}, {"id": "B3.4.10", "lines": ["For Manuchehr avenged what Iraj bore,", "And paid that ancient debt in blood before."]}, {"id": "B3.4.11", "lines": ["When Fereydoon the world to sons assigned,", "He sought a balance just in kingly mind."]}, {"id": "B3.4.12", "lines": ["Let us abide by that appointed share,", "And not transgress what ancient kings held fair."]}, {"id": "B3.4.13", "lines": ["From khargah toward Mawarannahr’s side,", "Our portion lies, with Jihun as its guide."]}, {"id": "B3.4.14", "lines": ["Let Iran hold what once to Iraj fell,", "And keep the bounds that ancient wisdom drew well."]}, {"id": "B3.4.15", "lines": ["If we transgress and draw our swords in strife,", "We make the world too narrow for our life."]}, {"id": "B3.4.16", "lines": ["Steel shall resound; God’s wrath shall scour our ways,", "In this world and the next, beyond our days."]}, {"id": "B3.4.17", "lines": ["Let Fereydoon’s partition still command,", "And each abide within his granted land."]}, {"id": "B3.4.18", "lines": ["The earth is not worth grief so vast and sore,", "Nor blood and misery poured forevermore."]}, {"id": "B3.4.19", "lines": ["Zal’s head is white as snow beneath the sky,", "While heroes’ blood stains earth with crimson dye."]}, {"id": "B3.4.20", "lines": ["A man at last shall claim one narrow space,", "No more than his own measure for a place."]}, {"id": "B3.4.21", "lines": ["At last beneath the earth all men must lie,", "In coarse cloth wrapped, while rank and splendor die."]}, {"id": "B3.4.22", "lines": ["Greed brings but grief while we draw passing breath,", "And leaves us pain before we come to death."]}, {"id": "B3.4.23", "lines": ["If Qobad heeds these words of tempered mind,", "The wise do not turn from the path aligned."]}, {"id": "B3.4.24", "lines": ["Not one of us shall cross Jihun in dream,", "Nor one from Iran pass beyond the stream."]}, {"id": "B3.4.25", "lines": ["Let only greetings, messages, and word", "Pass between realms, in peace conveyed and heard.”"]}, {"id": "B3.4.26", "lines": ["He sealed the scroll and sent it with the best", "Of gems and gold, in royal splendor dressed:"]}, {"id": "B3.4.27", "lines": ["Bright crowns and thrones, and maidens girdled gold,", "With Arabian steeds in golden trappings bold,"]}, {"id": "B3.4.28", "lines": ["And Indian blades in silver sheaths conveyed,", "With jewels rich before the envoy laid."]}, {"id": "B3.4.29", "lines": ["The envoy entered Shah Qobad’s great hall,", "And laid the gifts and letter before all."]}, {"id": "B3.4.30", "lines": ["The monarch read and answered without fear,", "In words both long and resolute and clear:"]}, {"id": "B3.4.31", "lines": ["“We did not first draw sword against your side;", "Afrasiab began this present tide."]}, {"id": "B3.4.32", "lines": ["The ancient wrong began when Tur struck Iraj down,", "And stained the earth through greed for royal crown."]}, {"id": "B3.4.33", "lines": ["Afrasiab crossed Jihun into our land,", "And brought this war upon Iran’s own strand."]}, {"id": "B3.4.34", "lines": ["You heard what cruel fate befell Nohzar;", "Even beasts grieved at deeds that went too far."]}, {"id": "B3.4.35", "lines": ["He slew wise Aghriras, who counseled right,", "And stained humanity with brother’s blight."]}, {"id": "B3.4.36", "lines": ["Yet if you turn from this misguided way,", "I shall renew our covenant today."]}, {"id": "B3.4.37", "lines": ["No greed for vengeance rules my heart or hand,", "Though I stand ready to defend the land."]}, {"id": "B3.4.38", "lines": ["Beyond the stream your lands shall still remain,", "That Afrasiab may find his rest and reign.”"]}, {"id": "B3.4.39", "lines": ["Thus Qobad wrote and sealed the pact’s decree,", "And planted greatness’ garden with a tree."]}, {"id": "B3.4.40", "lines": ["The envoy like a leopard crossed the plain,", "And bore the answer back to Pashang’s train."]}, {"id": "B3.4.41", "lines": ["Then Pashang loaded baggage for the road,", "And dust to heaven rose where Turan rode."]}, {"id": "B3.4.42", "lines": ["He crossed the Jihun like the wind in flight,", "And left the fields of death beyond his sight."]}, {"id": "B3.4.43", "lines": ["The news reached Qobad; joy his spirit filled,", "That war was stayed and hostile fury stilled."]}, {"id": "B3.4.44", "lines": ["But Rostam said: “Seek not for peace in fight;", "At battle’s hour such peace is never right."]}, {"id": "B3.4.45", "lines": ["My gorz alone has brought them peace this day,", "And turned their boastful tide to swift dismay.”"]}, {"id": "B3.4.46", "lines": ["Then Qobad spoke: “No sight can shine so fair", "As justice when it ends a realm’s despair."]}, {"id": "B3.4.47", "lines": ["Pashang, sprung from Fereydoon’s noble line,", "Has wearied now of war and its design."]}, {"id": "B3.4.48", "lines": ["The wise turn neither crooked nor untrue,", "But hold to justice in whatever they do."]}, {"id": "B3.4.49", "lines": ["To you, brave Rostam, falls the sovereign span", "From Zabulistan to the Sea of Sind’s strand."]}, {"id": "B3.4.50", "lines": ["Go rule in Nimruz with both crown and throne,", "And make that region prosper as your own."]}, {"id": "B3.4.51", "lines": ["Let Mehrab keep his rule in Kabul’s land,", "And dip each spearhead deep in poison’s hand."]}, {"id": "B3.4.52", "lines": ["For where there is a king, there war may rise,", "Though earth itself lies broad beneath the skies.”"]}, {"id": "B3.4.53", "lines": ["The Shah prepared rich robes of royal state", "For Rostam and for Zal, renowned and great."]}, {"id": "B3.4.54", "lines": ["He crowned young Rostam, bound his waist with gold,", "And honored him with splendor manifold."]}, {"id": "B3.4.55", "lines": ["Entrusted with a quarter’s rule, he bowed", "And kissed the earth; then Qobad spoke aloud:"]}, {"id": "B3.4.56", "lines": ["“One hair of Zal outweighs the world entire;", "He stands a monument that all admire.”"]}, {"id": "B3.4.57", "lines": ["Five elephants were laden for the road,", "A royal litter bore the precious load."]}, {"id": "B3.4.58", "lines": ["With turquoise bright as Nile’s translucent hue,", "And cloth of gold that flashed before the view,"]}, {"id": "B3.4.59", "lines": ["A treasure none could number, weigh, or tell,", "With royal robes for Zal, whom all knew well."]}, {"id": "B3.4.60", "lines": ["A crown and girdle, ruby, turquoise-bright,", "Were sent to Zal in honor of his might."]}, {"id": "B3.4.61", "lines": ["“I wish this robe of honor had been more,", "And richer still the gifts I send your door."]}, {"id": "B3.4.62", "lines": ["If life grants me the years that I desire,", "I shall free Zal from worldly want entire.”"]}, {"id": "B3.4.63", "lines": ["To Gharan, Keshvad, Kharrad, Barzin bold,", "And Pulad too, he gave rich gems and gold."]}, {"id": "B3.4.64", "lines": ["To each deserving warrior in his sight,", "He granted robes and wealth by rank and right."]}, {"id": "B3.4.65", "lines": ["Some gained brocade and dinars for their worth,", "Some sword and axe, as rank and deeds gave birth."]}, {"id": "B3.5.1", "lines": ["From there Kay Qobad rode to Pars’ domain,", "Where keys to royal treasures would remain."]}, {"id": "B3.5.2", "lines": ["Istakhr then shone, the seat of Kayanian might,", "And Kayanian glory crowned its height."]}, {"id": "B3.5.3", "lines": ["The world turned toward him as he took the crown,", "In justice on the Kayan throne sat down."]}, {"id": "B3.5.4", "lines": ["He told the wise: “The world is in my care,", "From end to end, with all that people share."]}, {"id": "B3.5.5", "lines": ["If elephant on mosquito vents its spite,", "It tears a breach in justice and in right."]}, {"id": "B3.5.6", "lines": ["I seek what is just; from God’s anger spring", "All losses that befall the unjust king."]}, {"id": "B3.5.7", "lines": ["By toil and justice ease shall reach them all;", "My labor is the people’s guarding wall."]}, {"id": "B3.5.8", "lines": ["Wherever earth and water spread their store,", "I count that land my treasure evermore."]}, {"id": "B3.5.9", "lines": ["I hold the soldier and the townsman one;", "The realm itself is strength beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B3.5.10", "lines": ["Take God as refuge; wisdom be your guide,", "And harmlessly through all your dealings stride."]}, {"id": "B3.5.11", "lines": ["Who has provision, let him eat and share;", "Let thanks for what he eats return to my care."]}, {"id": "B3.5.12", "lines": ["Who cannot earn his bread by work or field", "Shall find my court a pasture freely yield.”"]}, {"id": "B3.5.13", "lines": ["He gathered up his army, journeyed wide,", "Inspecting all the realm from side to side."]}, {"id": "B3.5.14", "lines": ["For ten full years he traveled, hearing cases", "In public and in secret, in all places."]}, {"id": "B3.5.15", "lines": ["He built fair cities, splendid in display;", "A hundred settlements arose by Rey."]}, {"id": "B3.5.16", "lines": ["But when at last Time’s claw on him was laid,", "He turned toward Pars as life began to fade."]}, {"id": "B3.5.17", "lines": ["He turned to Pars and sat his throne again,", "With Mobadan, star-readers, learned men."]}, {"id": "B3.5.18", "lines": ["He called the warriors, studied every face,", "And grief rose in his heart within that place."]}, {"id": "B3.5.19", "lines": ["He thought of famous men long passed away,", "And made the world bloom through just gifts each day."]}, {"id": "B3.5.20", "lines": ["A hundred years he lived in joy and mirth;", "No Shah like him had ruled upon the earth."]}, {"id": "B3.5.21", "lines": ["He had four sons, all wise and nobly bred,", "To keep his name alive when he was dead:"]}, {"id": "B3.5.22", "lines": ["First Kay Kavus, then Kay Arash by name,", "Then Kay Pashin, each worthy of his fame,"]}, {"id": "B3.5.23", "lines": ["And Kay Armin, the youngest of the line;", "All four in peace and fortune came to shine."]}, {"id": "B3.5.24", "lines": ["A hundred years with crown and throne had flown;", "Then Fortune turned against what he had known."]}, {"id": "B3.5.25", "lines": ["At last he knew that death was drawing near;", "Life’s green leaf paled and withered through the year."]}, {"id": "B3.5.26", "lines": ["He called Kay Kavus, counsel to bestow,", "On justice, giving, and the path to go:"]}, {"id": "B3.5.27", "lines": ["“My baggage now is packed; my road is done;", "Leave me the coffin; take the throne, my son."]}, {"id": "B3.5.28", "lines": ["It seems I only now from Alborz came,", "With joyful friends beside me, still the same."]}, {"id": "B3.5.29", "lines": ["Trust not in Fortune, sudden in her flight;", "The man who serves her cannot reason right."]}, {"id": "B3.5.30", "lines": ["Be just and pure of heart in all you do;", "The world beyond will yield its share to you."]}, {"id": "B3.5.31", "lines": ["But if greed draws your judgment far astray,", "You draw the sharpened sword yourself that day."]}, {"id": "B3.5.32", "lines": ["That sword first wounds the hand that drew its breath,", "Then yields you to your foe and leads to death."]}, {"id": "B3.5.33", "lines": ["Beyond this life your dwelling shall be fire,", "While here grief answers every false desire.”"]}, {"id": "B3.5.34", "lines": ["He spoke, then left this fleeting world behind,", "And passed beyond the reach of humankind."]}, {"id": "B3.5.35", "lines": ["He left the palace for the coffin’s keep,", "And passed from royal halls to final sleep."]}, {"id": "B3.5.36", "lines": ["Such is the world: from dust it raises all,", "Then gives them to the wind when shadows fall."]}, {"id": "B3.5.37", "lines": ["The tale of Qobad here has reached its end;", "Let now to Kavus all our thoughts attend."]}]}, {"id": "B4", "title": "The War with Mazandaran", "summary": "4 sections · 297 couplets", "path": "/poem/b4/", "couplets": [{"id": "B4.1.1", "lines": ["If harm should touch a tree once grown to height,", "Its leaves shall wither and grow pale to sight."]}, {"id": "B4.1.2", "lines": ["Its root grows weak, its lofty crown bends low,", "And all its former strength begins to go."]}, {"id": "B4.1.3", "lines": ["When severed cleanly from its rooted place,", "A younger shoot arises in its space."]}, {"id": "B4.1.4", "lines": ["To it he leaves the blossom, leaf, and bowers,", "A spring that shines like lamps among the flowers."]}, {"id": "B4.1.5", "lines": ["But if that shoot be crooked, harsh, or wild,", "Let not the root be judged for such a child."]}, {"id": "B4.1.6", "lines": ["So when a father leaves the world he knew,", "He shows his son what once was hid from view."]}, {"id": "B4.1.7", "lines": ["If he casts off his father’s farr and name,", "Call him no son, but stranger to that fame."]}, {"id": "B4.1.8", "lines": ["He who abandons wisdom’s tested way", "Shall meet what Time has stored for him that day."]}, {"id": "B4.1.9", "lines": ["This ancient world is fashioned in such guise,", "Its root and crown elude the searching eyes."]}, {"id": "B4.1.10", "lines": ["No man can trace its ending or its start,", "However wise his searching mind and heart."]}, {"id": "B4.1.11", "lines": ["Who knows the world and sees its crooked way", "Will scarcely wish within its bounds to stay."]}, {"id": "B4.1.12", "lines": ["So turn your thought to words the old have known,", "And heed the wisdom age and time have shown."]}, {"id": "B4.1.13", "lines": ["Remember what the seasoned sages tell;", "Their words may light the path where shadows dwell."]}, {"id": "B4.1.14", "lines": ["When Kay Kavus assumed his father’s throne,", "The world became his servant and his own."]}, {"id": "B4.1.15", "lines": ["He saw vast heaps of treasure piled up high,", "And all the world bowed underneath his eye."]}, {"id": "B4.1.16", "lines": ["Torques, earrings, and a crown of shining gold,", "With emeralds whose green fires brightly rolled."]}, {"id": "B4.1.17", "lines": ["Full-maned Tazi horses stood in line;", "No steeds on earth could match their breed and shine."]}, {"id": "B4.1.18", "lines": ["No monarch matched his wealth or jeweled display,", "Or rivaled him in splendor or array."]}, {"id": "B4.1.19", "lines": ["One day he sat with wine and courtly grace,", "Within a gold-adorned garden place,"]}, {"id": "B4.1.20", "lines": ["Upon a throne whose crystal feet shone bright,", "And weighed with Iran’s Pahlevans wrong and right."]}, {"id": "B4.1.21", "lines": ["Before the chiefs he raised his boastful voice:", "“Who else is Shah? Who else can make that choice?"]}, {"id": "B4.1.22", "lines": ["What throne exists but mine beneath the Sun?", "What glory rivals all that I have won?”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.23", "lines": ["He drank and boasted, swollen with delight;", "The chiefs stared on, astonished at the sight."]}, {"id": "B4.1.24", "lines": ["As thus he spoke, flushed deep with wine and pride,", "A hidden Div approached the chamberlain’s side."]}, {"id": "B4.1.25", "lines": ["He told the guard: “From Mazandaran’s land", "I come, a singer skilled in voice and hand."]}, {"id": "B4.1.26", "lines": ["If I am worthy, let me near the throne,", "And sing before the Shah whose name is known.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.27", "lines": ["The chamberlain announced him to the king:", "“A bard awaits with barbat fit to sing.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.28", "lines": ["The Shah gave leave; they brought him to the hall,", "And seated him among the players all."]}, {"id": "B4.1.29", "lines": ["He tuned his barbat and struck a subtle tone,", "Then sang of lands more fair than any known:"]}, {"id": "B4.1.30", "lines": ["“May Mazandaran ever honored be;", "May all its land bloom on eternally."]}, {"id": "B4.1.31", "lines": ["Upon its slopes the crimson tulips blaze,", "And hyacinths perfume the mountain ways."]}, {"id": "B4.1.32", "lines": ["No burning heat, no bitter cold to bear;", "Eternal spring adorns the tempered air."]}, {"id": "B4.1.33", "lines": ["The nightingale in every garden sings,", "And deer move freely by the mountain springs."]}, {"id": "B4.1.34", "lines": ["All year in every place are scent and hue,", "And every garden keeps its colors new."]}, {"id": "B4.1.35", "lines": ["Like rosewater the fragrant rivers flow,", "Their perfume gladdens every soul below."]}, {"id": "B4.1.36", "lines": ["Through Dey and Bahman, Azar, Farvardin,", "The tulip-covered earth stays fresh and green."]}, {"id": "B4.1.37", "lines": ["All year the smiling streambanks laugh and shine,", "And hunting hawks stand ready down the line."]}, {"id": "B4.1.38", "lines": ["Rich brocades clothe provinces far and wide,", "And golden treasures fill each hall inside."]}, {"id": "B4.1.39", "lines": ["Fair maidens wear bright crowns of beaten gold,", "And famous men gold girdles round them hold."]}, {"id": "B4.1.40", "lines": ["Who has not seen that land knows not delight,", "Nor feels the fullness of its living light.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.41", "lines": ["These words inflamed the heart of Kavus then;", "He turned and spoke before assembled men."]}, {"id": "B4.1.42", "lines": ["To far Mazandaran he set his mind,", "And vowed to lead all Iran’s strength combined."]}, {"id": "B4.1.43", "lines": ["“We have surrendered all our days to feast;", "Through ease and idleness a hero is decreased."]}, {"id": "B4.1.44", "lines": ["In fortune, farr, and lineage I stand high;", "Jamshid, Zahhak, Kay Qobad cannot vie."]}, {"id": "B4.1.45", "lines": ["I must surpass them also in renown,", "And win new glory worthy of my crown."]}, {"id": "B4.1.46", "lines": ["A crown-bearer must seek the world for fame;", "Great kings enlarge by deeds their lasting name.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.47", "lines": ["The nobles heard; their faces turned to clay,", "Their brows drew tight with fear and deep dismay."]}, {"id": "B4.1.48", "lines": ["For none would war against the Divs’ dark might,", "Yet none dared challenge Kavus in his sight."]}, {"id": "B4.1.49", "lines": ["There Tus, Giv, and Gudarz stood nearby,", "Masking the fear they could no more deny,"]}, {"id": "B4.1.50", "lines": ["With Keshvad, Kharrad, Gorgin, Bahram near,", "Each hid beneath his words a rising fear."]}, {"id": "B4.1.51", "lines": ["They said aloud: “We serve you as you will,”", "Yet spoke in secret of approaching ill."]}, {"id": "B4.1.52", "lines": ["Then privately the chiefs withdrew as one,", "And formed a council when their speech was done."]}, {"id": "B4.1.53", "lines": ["They asked, “What stroke has Fortune brought today?", "What evil turns our sovereign from the way?"]}, {"id": "B4.1.54", "lines": ["If he pursues these wine-born words and goes,", "Then ruin waits for Iran from its foes."]}, {"id": "B4.1.55", "lines": ["If he will not forget what wine has bred,", "Then Iran’s strength and royal line lie dead."]}, {"id": "B4.1.56", "lines": ["No man shall stay, no water, soil, or field;", "All Iran’s earth and water then must yield."]}, {"id": "B4.1.57", "lines": ["Jamshid, though Div and bird and pari obeyed,", "With crown and ring, no such invasion made."]}, {"id": "B4.1.58", "lines": ["Nor wise Fereydoon sought that haunted land,", "Though wisdom, might, and magic filled his hand."]}, {"id": "B4.1.59", "lines": ["If conquest there had ever brought renown,", "Manuchehr would have struck all its Divs down."]}, {"id": "B4.1.60", "lines": ["We must devise a way to turn him back,", "Or all shall perish on this fatal track.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.61", "lines": ["Then Tus declared: “One remedy remains;", "Send word to Zal across the dusty plains."]}, {"id": "B4.1.62", "lines": ["The remedy is one and not too hard;", "We still may turn this danger from our guard."]}, {"id": "B4.1.63", "lines": ["Send swift hiyun to summon him; we need", "His wisdom to restrain this reckless deed."]}, {"id": "B4.1.64", "lines": ["Though flowers may rest upon his head today,", "Bid him sharpen thought and cast his ease away."]}, {"id": "B4.1.65", "lines": ["Perhaps his counsel, opening wise and clear,", "May reach the Shah’s high heart and turn his ear."]}, {"id": "B4.1.66", "lines": ["Tell Zal that Ahriman has bent his thought;", "The Divs’ dark gate must never thus be sought."]}, {"id": "B4.1.67", "lines": ["If Zal cannot recall him from this course,", "The matter reaches then its final force.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.68", "lines": ["A rider hastened forth without delay,", "And reached great Zal at midday on his way."]}, {"id": "B4.1.69", "lines": ["“O renowned chief, great Sahm’s illustrious son,", "Something beyond our grasp has now begun."]}, {"id": "B4.1.70", "lines": ["A matter has arisen, dark and strange,", "Beyond what knowledge knows or thought can range."]}, {"id": "B4.1.71", "lines": ["Unless you gird yourself and answer fast,", "No man nor land of Iran long shall last."]}, {"id": "B4.1.72", "lines": ["The Shah turns from the path his fathers knew,", "And casts aside the counsel they held true."]}, {"id": "B4.1.73", "lines": ["Ahriman has bent the Shah from wisdom’s road,", "And turned his heart toward an accursed load."]}, {"id": "B4.1.74", "lines": ["His fathers’ hard-won labors he disdains;", "He seeks rich treasure without toil or pains."]}, {"id": "B4.1.75", "lines": ["The Shah desires Mazandaran’s domain,", "A prize no former king had sought to gain."]}, {"id": "B4.1.76", "lines": ["If you delay, the Shah will soon depart;", "His march is fixed already in his heart."]}, {"id": "B4.1.77", "lines": ["All that you wrought for Kay Qobad of old", "May now be scattered while your eyes behold."]}, {"id": "B4.1.78", "lines": ["You and young Rostam girded for the fight,", "Like lions when Kay Qobad claimed his right."]}, {"id": "B4.1.79", "lines": ["Your toil has vanished like a breath of air;", "The Shah now squanders all your work and care."]}, {"id": "B4.1.80", "lines": ["His ill-turned spirit leads him from the way,", "And all that labor turns to dust today.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.81", "lines": ["When Zal heard this, his heart was pierced with grief:", "The Kayanian tree bore yellowed leaf."]}, {"id": "B4.1.82", "lines": ["He said: “This king is rash and hard to guide;", "He turns from counsel offered at his side."]}, {"id": "B4.1.83", "lines": ["He has not learned the world’s hard heat and cold,", "Yet thinks his judgment seasoned, firm, and old."]}, {"id": "B4.1.84", "lines": ["A man who holds high place beneath the sky", "Sees years and Sun and Moon go passing by,"]}, {"id": "B4.1.85", "lines": ["Till at his sword both high and low may shake,", "And every man before his presence quake."]}, {"id": "B4.1.86", "lines": ["Perhaps the Shah will cast my words aside,", "Yet I must go; the effort must be tried."]}, {"id": "B4.1.87", "lines": ["The World-Creator would not praise my choice,", "Nor Shah nor Iran’s warriors with one voice."]}, {"id": "B4.1.88", "lines": ["I go to counsel him with steady speech;", "If he will hear, then wisdom lies in reach."]}, {"id": "B4.1.89", "lines": ["If he grows sharp, the road is open still;", "Tahamtan waits with army and with will.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.90", "lines": ["He mused throughout the night; at break of day,", "He armed himself and took the Shah-ward way."]}, {"id": "B4.1.91", "lines": ["The chiefs escorted Zal upon the road;", "His royal standard in the sunlight showed."]}, {"id": "B4.1.92", "lines": ["To Tus, Gudarz, Giv, Bahram came the word,", "And Gorgin with the other chieftains heard:"]}, {"id": "B4.1.93", "lines": ["“Zal now approaches; see his banner rise,", "His royal standard gleams before our eyes.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.94", "lines": ["Each chief who wore the Pahlevan’s high cap", "Rode forth to greet him, closing fast the gap."]}, {"id": "B4.1.95", "lines": ["When he drew near, they left their steeds behind,", "Approached on foot, and blessed him, heart and mind."]}, {"id": "B4.1.96", "lines": ["As all together toward the Shah they went,", "Tus said, “Great chief, long roads your strength have spent."]}, {"id": "B4.1.97", "lines": ["For Iran’s nobles you have journeyed wide,", "Hard toil and travel, setting rest aside."]}, {"id": "B4.1.98", "lines": ["We are devoted wholly to your name;", "Your crown and farr bring honor to our fame.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.99", "lines": ["Then Zal replied, “The maxims of the wise", "Return when age has dimmed a hero’s eyes."]}, {"id": "B4.1.100", "lines": ["In time the turning heavens make it known", "What judgment each has earned beneath the throne."]}, {"id": "B4.1.101", "lines": ["We must not hide the counsel age has taught;", "The Shah has need of wisdom years have brought."]}, {"id": "B4.1.102", "lines": ["If he rejects the words that wisdom gives,", "He will regret that choice while yet he lives.”"]}, {"id": "B4.1.103", "lines": ["They cried, “Agreed! We stand behind your word.”", "Then sought the Shah, that counsel might be heard."]}, {"id": "B4.2.1", "lines": ["With lords adorned in belts of gleaming gold,", "Zal came, composed in bearing, firm and bold."]}, {"id": "B4.2.2", "lines": ["He entered where Kay Kavus held his throne,", "Exulting in a power all his own."]}, {"id": "B4.2.3", "lines": ["With folded arms and eyes cast down, he stood,", "Then spoke with care, his counsel grave and good:"]}, {"id": "B4.2.4", "lines": ["“O lord of worlds, peerless in crown and name,", "No throne has borne a king of equal fame."]}, {"id": "B4.2.5", "lines": ["No throne or crown has known so great a king,", "Nor heaven seen such fortune take its wing."]}, {"id": "B4.2.6", "lines": ["May victory and joy attend your reign,", "Your heart hold wisdom, justice rule your brain.”"]}, {"id": "B4.2.7", "lines": ["The Shah received Zal as an honored guest,", "And on the throne beside him bade him rest."]}, {"id": "B4.2.8", "lines": ["He asked about the hardships of the road,", "The chiefs, and Rostam, famed in his abode."]}, {"id": "B4.2.9", "lines": ["Zal answered: “Live in triumph, crowned and bright!", "Your fortune fills all loyal hearts with light."]}, {"id": "B4.2.10", "lines": ["Through you our honor rises ever high,", "Our heads uplifted as your banners fly.”"]}, {"id": "B4.2.11", "lines": ["Then Zal began, his purpose firm and clear,", "To turn the king from folly drawing near:"]}, {"id": "B4.2.12", "lines": ["“O Shah, who bears the crown and royal throne,", "Among the great, your royal worth is known."]}, {"id": "B4.2.13", "lines": ["Long years have passed in turning over me;", "I watched the wheel of heaven turn and flee."]}, {"id": "B4.2.14", "lines": ["Yet grave reports have reached my ears of late,", "And pressed my aged heart with doubt’s great weight:"]}, {"id": "B4.2.15", "lines": ["They say that toward Mazandaran you fare,", "Upon a road no prudent king would dare."]}, {"id": "B4.2.16", "lines": ["No king before you sought that shadowed way,", "Though many ruled with power in their day."]}, {"id": "B4.2.17", "lines": ["Manuchehr passed and left this world behind,", "With treasure, throne, and palaces consigned."]}, {"id": "B4.2.18", "lines": ["So Zav and Nohzar, kings of tested reign,", "And Kay Qobad refused that dark domain."]}, {"id": "B4.2.19", "lines": ["How many heroes, battle-proven, came,", "With countless troops and heavy gorz of fame."]}, {"id": "B4.2.20", "lines": ["Yet none among them sought that cursed road,", "Or led toward Mazandaran his martial load."]}, {"id": "B4.2.21", "lines": ["There sorcerous Divs with talismans abide,", "And magic bonds defend them on each side."]}, {"id": "B4.2.22", "lines": ["No sword can break what deeper charms defend,", "No wealth or wit can bring such powers to end."]}, {"id": "B4.2.23", "lines": ["No blessing lies upon that road of pain;", "Abandon now this dark and reckless aim."]}, {"id": "B4.2.24", "lines": ["Do not cast toil and strength and wealth away", "On spells no mortal sword can hold at bay."]}, {"id": "B4.2.25", "lines": ["No Shah before you chose that road to fame,", "Yet each won honor and a lasting name. "]}, {"id": "B4.2.26", "lines": ["Though lesser men before your crown appear,", "They served the Just One with devotion clear."]}, {"id": "B4.2.27", "lines": ["Do not plant greatness like a blood-fed tree,", "From heads of heroes slain for vanity."]}, {"id": "B4.2.28", "lines": ["Its fruit will ripen cursed, with bitter flaw;", "No ancient king made such a practice law.”"]}, {"id": "B4.2.29", "lines": ["The Shah replied, his pride now sharpened high:", "“Your counsel has its worth; I cannot deny."]}, {"id": "B4.2.30", "lines": ["In valor, strength, and wealth I far exceed", "Both Jamshid and Fereydoon, all concede."]}, {"id": "B4.2.31", "lines": ["Manuchehr and Qobad I too excel;", "They never sought Mazandaran’s dark spell."]}, {"id": "B4.2.32", "lines": ["My army, heart, and treasure greater stand;", "The sharp sword holds the world beneath command."]}, {"id": "B4.2.33", "lines": ["The world lies open to the knowing eye;", "No hidden realm shall from my purpose fly."]}, {"id": "B4.2.34", "lines": ["I go to snare them one by one in fight,", "By kingly rule or by the sword’s own might."]}, {"id": "B4.2.35", "lines": ["I shall impose my tribute on their land,", "Or leave no living foe who dares withstand."]}, {"id": "B4.2.36", "lines": ["Their sorcerers and Divs I count as base;", "No terror in them do I see or trace."]}, {"id": "B4.2.37", "lines": ["The Divs shall vanish from the face of earth,", "Their cursed breed be stripped of name and worth."]}, {"id": "B4.2.38", "lines": ["You, Zal, with Rostam, guard Iran; beware;", "Let watchful strength be constant everywhere."]}, {"id": "B4.2.39", "lines": ["The World-Creator stands with me today;", "The heads of male Divs shall be my prey."]}, {"id": "B4.2.40", "lines": ["If you will not ride with me to the fight,", "Then do not counsel me to wait tonight.”"]}, {"id": "B4.2.41", "lines": ["Zal saw no head nor root in what he heard;", "No path appeared through Kavus’s reckless word."]}, {"id": "B4.2.42", "lines": ["Zal heard and answered, though his heart was torn:", "“You are the Shah, and we to serve are sworn."]}, {"id": "B4.2.43", "lines": ["We speak from love; whether you rule by right", "Or wrong, your servants follow where you might."]}, {"id": "B4.2.44", "lines": ["My mind is eased, for I have said my part;", "What wisdom taught, I offered from the heart."]}, {"id": "B4.2.45", "lines": ["No man can drive death from his mortal frame;", "When death arrives, all bodies end the same."]}, {"id": "B4.2.46", "lines": ["No needle sews the eye of Time away;", "No guarded man escapes what need may lay."]}, {"id": "B4.2.47", "lines": ["From death, from Time, from need none finds release;", "Not even world-seekers purchase lasting peace."]}, {"id": "B4.2.48", "lines": ["May this bright world bring fortune to your reign,", "And spare you cause to think on this with pain."]}, {"id": "B4.2.49", "lines": ["May no deed of your own bring late regret;", "May heart and faith remain in brightness set.”"]}, {"id": "B4.2.50", "lines": ["Then Zal took leave of Kavus and withdrew,", "His heart oppressed by what the Shah would do."]}, {"id": "B4.2.51", "lines": ["As from the royal presence, grieved, he drew,", "Both Sun and Moon grew dark before his view."]}, {"id": "B4.2.52", "lines": ["Then Tus, Gudarz, Bahram, and Giv drew near,", "And went beside him, loyal and sincere."]}, {"id": "B4.2.53", "lines": ["Giv said, “May God direct us as we go;", "Were Kavus not our Shah, I would say no."]}, {"id": "B4.2.54", "lines": ["May greed and death and need stay far from you;", "May foemen’s hands fall short in all they do."]}, {"id": "B4.2.55", "lines": ["Wherever we may journey through the land,", "Your praise alone is heard on every hand."]}, {"id": "B4.2.56", "lines": ["Next after God, Iran on you depends,", "Who bore this arduous road for warrior friends.”"]}, {"id": "B4.2.57", "lines": ["Then Zal embraced the men who gathered round,", "And turned toward Sistan from that royal ground."]}, {"id": "B4.3.1", "lines": ["When Zal departed from the royal hall,", "The army turned to answer Kavus’s call."]}, {"id": "B4.3.2", "lines": ["To Tus and Gudarz then the Shah gave word:", "“Draw out the troops; let every rank be stirred.”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.3", "lines": ["When night gave way, at dawn the ranks made way,", "With Kavus toward Mazandaran that day."]}, {"id": "B4.3.4", "lines": ["To Milad he entrusted Iran’s land,", "The treasury keys, crown, signet in his hand."]}, {"id": "B4.3.5", "lines": ["“If any foe before your borders stand,", "Take not revenge alone, at your command,"]}, {"id": "B4.3.6", "lines": ["In every danger seek out Zal and son;", "The army’s strength and throne’s adornment, one.”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.7", "lines": ["Next day the koust rang out across the plain,", "While Tus and Gudarz drove the marching train."]}, {"id": "B4.3.8", "lines": ["Kay Kavus rode in splendor at their head,", "With Gudarz, Tus, and banners widely spread."]}, {"id": "B4.3.9", "lines": ["Before Mount Ispuruz he made his ground,", "And set his throne where shadow wrapped him round."]}, {"id": "B4.3.10", "lines": ["There even sunlight vanished from the sky;", "The Shah prepared beneath the dark to lie."]}, {"id": "B4.3.11", "lines": ["There savage Divs had made their dreadful lair;", "Even the elephant would scarcely dare."]}, {"id": "B4.3.12", "lines": ["Cloth made with gold was spread upon the ground,", "And wine made fragrant all the air around."]}, {"id": "B4.3.13", "lines": ["The chiefs assembled near the monarch’s seat,", "And passed the night in revels rich and sweet."]}, {"id": "B4.3.14", "lines": ["At dawn they rose with girdles, caps arrayed,", "And stood before the Shah in ranks displayed."]}, {"id": "B4.3.15", "lines": ["He turned to Giv and spoke with hardened will:", "“Choose men at once, both resolute and skilled."]}, {"id": "B4.3.16", "lines": ["Let two full thousand gorz-men clear the way", "Toward Mazandaran without delay."]}, {"id": "B4.3.17", "lines": ["Strike every soul; burn all that stands in sight,", "And turn each dwelling’s day to blackest night."]}, {"id": "B4.3.18", "lines": ["Let every Div hear what our swords have done,", "Till sorcery is emptied, one by one.”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.19", "lines": ["Giv armed at once and left the royal gate,", "With chosen warriors sworn to seal their fate."]}, {"id": "B4.3.20", "lines": ["They reached Mazandaran’s great city wall,", "With sword and gorz they rained destruction all."]}, {"id": "B4.3.21", "lines": ["No woman, child, nor man could refuge gain;", "Nor priest nor sage escaped the murderous rain."]}, {"id": "B4.3.22", "lines": ["They burned and plundered city, street, and plain,", "And poured out poison where the cure had lain."]}, {"id": "B4.3.23", "lines": ["At length they reached a wondrous, radiant scene,", "No mortal realm had ever shone so serene."]}, {"id": "B4.3.24", "lines": ["Each street displayed its beauty, wealth, and art,", "And moon-bright maidens gladdened every heart."]}, {"id": "B4.3.25", "lines": ["In every lane a thousand servants shone,", "With torques and earrings bright as polished stone."]}, {"id": "B4.3.26", "lines": ["Still more crowned servants thronged the avenues,", "Moon-faced and bright in robes of varied hues."]}, {"id": "B4.3.27", "lines": ["Gold lay in heaps and gems shone clear and bright,", "And cattle grazed in numbers past all sight."]}, {"id": "B4.3.28", "lines": ["They sent to Kavus word of that estate;", "He blessed the voice that named it Paradise’s mate."]}, {"id": "B4.3.29", "lines": ["The city seemed an idol-temple decked", "With Chinese brocade, and with flowers flecked."]}, {"id": "B4.3.30", "lines": ["Its beauties seemed like Paradise made plain;", "Rizvan washed pomegranate blooms with rain."]}, {"id": "B4.3.31", "lines": ["One might have said: “This land is Paradise,", "A vision formed before astonished eyes.”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.32", "lines": ["For seven days Iran’s men seized their prey,", "Then ceased from plunder on the seventh day."]}, {"id": "B4.3.33", "lines": ["The king of Mazandaran heard what passed,", "And grief and fury held his spirit fast."]}, {"id": "B4.3.34", "lines": ["A Div named Sanja stood within his hall,", "Who shared his sorrow at the kingdom’s fall."]}, {"id": "B4.3.35", "lines": ["The king said: “Go like Sun across the air,", "And carry this command with utmost care."]}, {"id": "B4.3.36", "lines": ["Tell the White Div: ‘A force from Iran’s land", "Has come to plunder all at their command."]}, {"id": "B4.3.37", "lines": ["World-seeking Kavus leads them at their head,", "With battle-ready warriors widely spread."]}, {"id": "B4.3.38", "lines": ["They burned Mazandaran and fed the flame", "Of vengeance, leaving ruin in their name."]}, {"id": "B4.3.39", "lines": ["Unless you come at once to give us aid,", "No soul in Mazandaran shall here be stayed.’”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.40", "lines": ["When Sanja heard, he sped without delay,", "And reached the White Div by the shortest way."]}, {"id": "B4.3.41", "lines": ["The White Div said: “Let not your spirit fall;", "My strength shall rise and overwhelm them all."]}, {"id": "B4.3.42", "lines": ["I shall come armed and close his homeward road,", "And bar the Shah beneath my army’s load.”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.43", "lines": ["He rose like some vast mountain into view,", "His head stood level with the turning blue."]}, {"id": "B4.3.44", "lines": ["Then night descended, thick with pitch and dread,", "As though all light from earth and sky had fled."]}, {"id": "B4.3.45", "lines": ["The world became a sea, boundless and dark;", "No shore nor star remained for them to mark."]}, {"id": "B4.3.46", "lines": ["A tent of smoke and pitch he spread in night,", "And blackened every eye and quenched the light."]}, {"id": "B4.3.47", "lines": ["From heaven came stones and clods in deadly rain,", "And terror struck the hearts of Kavus’s train."]}, {"id": "B4.3.48", "lines": ["Some fled toward Iran in wild retreat,", "Their hearts sore-wounded by the Shah’s defeat."]}, {"id": "B4.3.49", "lines": ["At dawn destruction met each stricken eye;", "The Shah lay blind beneath the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "B4.3.50", "lines": ["Two thirds of all the army lost their sight,", "And chiefs burned inward at the shameful blight."]}, {"id": "B4.3.51", "lines": ["Their treasure seized, their army bound in chains;", "The Shah’s young fortune aged beneath its pains."]}, {"id": "B4.3.52", "lines": ["Remember well this marvel-laden tale;", "One wonder follows one without a fail."]}, {"id": "B4.3.53", "lines": ["“A wakeful counselor is worth more than gold;", "No treasure matches wisdom tried and old.”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.54", "lines": ["The Shah cried out in sorrow and regret:", "“The wise man’s counsel I chose to forget."]}, {"id": "B4.3.55", "lines": ["I did not heed great Zal’s forewarning voice,", "But followed folly through my prideful choice.”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.56", "lines": ["For seven days he lingered lost in pain,", "And saw no man of Iran on that plain."]}, {"id": "B4.3.57", "lines": ["On the eighth day the White Div thundered wide:", "“O barren willow, Shah of swollen pride!"]}, {"id": "B4.3.58", "lines": ["You dressed in pride and sought to rule this throne,", "Mazandaran’s high seat to make your own."]}, {"id": "B4.3.59", "lines": ["Like a mad elephant you judged your might,", "And thought no equal stood before your sight."]}, {"id": "B4.3.60", "lines": ["Not satisfied with crown and royal seat,", "You cast wise counsel underneath your feet."]}, {"id": "B4.3.61", "lines": ["You seized our people, gorz raised in the chase,", "And left both slain and captives in your trace."]}, {"id": "B4.3.62", "lines": ["You did not know what power I could show;", "Now see the harvest of the pride you sow.”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.63", "lines": ["He chose twelve thousand male Divs, blades in hand,", "And set them forth according to command."]}, {"id": "B4.3.64", "lines": ["They bound the chiefs and guarded all the train,", "And held Iran’s men fast in grief and pain."]}, {"id": "B4.3.65", "lines": ["They kept the captives living day by day,", "With scanty food to hold their deaths away."]}, {"id": "B4.3.66", "lines": ["The Shah’s great treasures and his royal hoard,", "His ruby crown and heavy gorz were stored."]}, {"id": "B4.3.67", "lines": ["He gave to Arzhang, captain of that land,", "And charged him thus to act at his command:"]}, {"id": "B4.3.68", "lines": ["“Go tell the king: blame Ahriman no more;", "I brought Iran’s proud champions to the floor."]}, {"id": "B4.3.69", "lines": ["The Shah and chiefs shall never more behold", "The Sun or Moon, nor daylight’s crown of gold."]}, {"id": "B4.3.70", "lines": ["I spared the Shah to teach him high from low,", "And make him learn what suffering can show."]}, {"id": "B4.3.71", "lines": ["Let hardship wake the reason he has lost,", "And teach his judgment through the bitter cost."]}, {"id": "B4.3.72", "lines": ["So none again will dare this reckless way,", "Or throw his realm and wisdom both away.”"]}, {"id": "B4.3.73", "lines": ["Then Arzhang went before his sovereign lord,", "With royal spoils and all the gathered hoard."]}, {"id": "B4.3.74", "lines": ["With captives, and with harnessed horses led,", "He bore the spoil the Iranian army shed."]}, {"id": "B4.3.75", "lines": ["Before the king he laid the spoil, a great", "Display of captives, steeds, and treasure’s weight."]}, {"id": "B4.3.76", "lines": ["The White Div then returned to his own height,", "Like Sun ascending in triumphant light."]}, {"id": "B4.3.77", "lines": ["But Kavus lingered captive in that land,", "Bereft of sight and stripped of all command."]}, {"id": "B4.3.78", "lines": ["He groaned: “My fault alone has cast me down,", "And brought this ruin on my royal crown.”"]}, {"id": "B4.4.1", "lines": ["Kavus, with stricken heart and broken will,", "Sent out a warrior bearing word of ill."]}, {"id": "B4.4.2", "lines": ["The faithful warrior flew as on a wing,", "To Zal the Shah’s disastrous news to bring."]}, {"id": "B4.4.3", "lines": ["Like smoke he sped from Mazandaran’s ground,", "And raced toward Zabul without turning round."]}, {"id": "B4.4.4", "lines": ["He bore this cry: “See what has Fortune done!", "My crown is lost, my glory overrun."]}, {"id": "B4.4.5", "lines": ["My head and throne have fallen from their height;", "My fortune too has vanished from my sight."]}, {"id": "B4.4.6", "lines": ["My treasure and my warriors bloomed in spring,", "Arrayed like flowers beneath the season’s wing."]}, {"id": "B4.4.7", "lines": ["The heavens gave them all as Divish prey,", "As wind sweeps springtime blossoms far away."]}, {"id": "B4.4.8", "lines": ["My sight is dim, my fortune turned to gloom;", "My body, crown, and throne have met their doom."]}, {"id": "B4.4.9", "lines": ["I lie beneath Ahriman’s crushing hand,", "With none to rise, no strength left to command."]}, {"id": "B4.4.10", "lines": ["His claws have seized me in this place of strife,", "And tear my very soul away from life."]}, {"id": "B4.4.11", "lines": ["When Zal’s wise counsel rises in my thought,", "A cold sigh comes for all the grief I wrought."]}, {"id": "B4.4.12", "lines": ["I lacked the wisdom to obey your call;", "Through that same folly came this bitter fall."]}, {"id": "B4.4.13", "lines": ["Now gird yourself and hasten to my aid,", "Or gain and capital alike shall fade.”"]}, {"id": "B4.4.14", "lines": ["The rider came to Zal and told the tale", "Of all he saw and heard, in full detail."]}, {"id": "B4.4.15", "lines": ["Zal tore his flesh beneath that crushing blow,", "So fierce the grief that through his heart did flow."]}, {"id": "B4.4.16", "lines": ["He hid the news from enemy and friend,", "And let no outward sign his sorrow send."]}, {"id": "B4.4.17", "lines": ["Yet wisdom long had shown his watchful eye", "What evils Time would bring as days went by."]}, {"id": "B4.4.18", "lines": ["He turned to Rostam: “Now the hour is here;", "The sword grows short within its sheath, I fear."]}, {"id": "B4.4.19", "lines": ["No longer may we feast or sit at ease,", "While such calamity does Iran seize."]}, {"id": "B4.4.20", "lines": ["The world’s own Shah lies in the dragon’s jaws;", "Iran lies crushed beneath this ruin’s cause."]}, {"id": "B4.4.21", "lines": ["Saddle up Rakhsh and seek revenge today;", "Let your world-conquering sword prepare the way."]}, {"id": "B4.4.22", "lines": ["For such a day I raised you at my side,", "To face the trials no one else has tried."]}, {"id": "B4.4.23", "lines": ["You now are fit for deeds of highest fame,", "For work that shall immortalize your name."]}, {"id": "B4.4.24", "lines": ["More than two hundred years have made me old;", "My strength is spent, my vigor faint and cold."]}, {"id": "B4.4.25", "lines": ["But you shall free the Shah and win renown,", "And bring him back to wear the royal crown."]}, {"id": "B4.4.26", "lines": ["No ease or breath is ours while evil stands;", "Ahriman’s work now calls for stronger hands."]}, {"id": "B4.4.27", "lines": ["Fasten your Babr-e Bayan firm and tight;", "Cast sleep and every other thought from sight."]}, {"id": "B4.4.28", "lines": ["Who once beholds the fury of your spear", "Will find no peace of soul remaining near."]}, {"id": "B4.4.29", "lines": ["The sea would turn to blood beneath your might;", "Your cry would flatten mountains in the fight."]}, {"id": "B4.4.30", "lines": ["Let Arzhang and the White Div lose all hope;", "No life remains where your great weapons cope."]}, {"id": "B4.4.31", "lines": ["And let Mazandaran’s own king be laid", "Beneath the crushing weight of your great blade.”"]}, {"id": "B4.4.32", "lines": ["Rostam replied: “The road is long and grim;", "What path shall guide me safely into him?”"]}, {"id": "B4.4.33", "lines": ["Said Zal: “Before your choice two roads are set,", "And both with toil and danger must be met."]}, {"id": "B4.4.34", "lines": ["One follows where the Shah has lately gone;", "The other crosses heights; fourteen stages on."]}, {"id": "B4.4.35", "lines": ["The first is long; the second short and steep,", "With harsher trials and terrors buried deep."]}, {"id": "B4.4.36", "lines": ["Through gloom it winds, past lion, Div, and night,", "Where darkness robs the traveler of sight."]}, {"id": "B4.4.37", "lines": ["Take now the shorter path, the harder way;", "The World-Creator shall be your stay."]}, {"id": "B4.4.38", "lines": ["Though hard the road, its trials shall be crossed;", "Blessed Rakhsh shall bear you, never lost."]}, {"id": "B4.4.39", "lines": ["Through darkest night until the dawn grows clear,", "I shall pray to pure Yazdan for you here."]}, {"id": "B4.4.40", "lines": ["Yet if Yazdan decrees another end,", "No mortal strength can alter or defend."]}, {"id": "B4.4.41", "lines": ["No one may linger, though he holds great sway;", "All men must leave this world and pass away."]}, {"id": "B4.4.42", "lines": ["But one whose great name lives in every land", "Need not depart in grief at death’s command.”"]}, {"id": "B4.4.43", "lines": ["Rostam replied: “I gird myself to go;", "No wise man walks to Hell on foot below."]}, {"id": "B4.4.44", "lines": ["Only one weary of his life would dare", "To meet the roaring lion in its lair."]}, {"id": "B4.4.45", "lines": ["Yet count me armed and already on my way;", "The Just Creator is my only stay."]}, {"id": "B4.4.46", "lines": ["For Shah and realm I pledge both soul and frame,", "To break their spells and sorcerers the same."]}, {"id": "B4.4.47", "lines": ["Each living man of Iran held inside", "I shall bring home with honor at my side."]}, {"id": "B4.4.48", "lines": ["No Arzhang, Sanja, White Div shall I spare;", "Nor Pulad Ghandi, Bid, this much I swear."]}, {"id": "B4.4.49", "lines": ["By God I swear, the One who reigns on high,", "I will not turn Rakhsh’s foot or backward fly,"]}, {"id": "B4.4.50", "lines": ["Till Arzhang’s hands are bound and held secure,", "A halter round his neck made fast and sure;"]}, {"id": "B4.4.51", "lines": ["Till Pulad’s head and brain beneath Rakhsh lie,", "And Rakhsh’s hoof moves earth as he goes by.”"]}, {"id": "B4.4.52", "lines": ["He donned his Babr-e Bayan for the road,", "While Zal invoked God’s blessing as he rode."]}, {"id": "B4.4.53", "lines": ["Like an elephant he mounted Rakhsh with might;", "The stallion stood as firm in heart and sight."]}, {"id": "B4.4.54", "lines": ["Rudabeh came with tears that would not cease,", "While Zal wept bitterly and found no peace."]}, {"id": "B4.4.55", "lines": ["She said: “You leave and fill my heart with fear;", "What hope in Yazdan bears you onward, dear?”"]}, {"id": "B4.4.56", "lines": ["He answered: “Mother, I chose not this way;", "Time gave this lot; to God give soul and clay.”"]}, {"id": "B4.4.57", "lines": ["The people gathered round to bid farewell;", "Who knew if they would see him more, or dwell?"]}, {"id": "B4.4.58", "lines": ["Thus Time goes on; the wise count every breath,", "And mark each passing moment until death."]}, {"id": "B4.4.59", "lines": ["When evil days have passed and lost their force,", "Know that the world has changed its former course."]}]}, {"id": "B5", "title": "The Seven Labors of Rostam", "summary": "11 sections · 692 couplets", "path": "/poem/b5/", "couplets": [{"id": "B5.1.1", "lines": ["Then Rostam, world-illuming, left his sire,", "And urged brave Rakhsh along with fierce desire."]}, {"id": "B5.1.2", "lines": ["He rode through darkest night as if by day,", "And pressed ahead without a pause or stay."]}, {"id": "B5.1.3", "lines": ["Two days of travel into one he made,", "Through blackest night and noon he never stayed."]}, {"id": "B5.1.4", "lines": ["Then hunger seized his elephantine frame;", "A plain of Gur-e-Khar before him came."]}, {"id": "B5.1.5", "lines": ["Gur-e-Khar in countless numbers strayed;", "He pressed his thighs; swift Rakhsh their speed outweighed."]}, {"id": "B5.1.6", "lines": ["His Kayanian kamand flew and caught", "One beast; none fled the speed with which he fought."]}, {"id": "B5.1.7", "lines": ["He struck his arrowhead till sparks took fire,", "And heaped dry thorn and brush to feed the pyre."]}, {"id": "B5.1.8", "lines": ["He roasted flesh until his hunger fled,", "Then cast the bones beside the embers red."]}, {"id": "B5.1.9", "lines": ["The beast his pot, the plain his banquet ground;", "No richer table could have there been found."]}, {"id": "B5.1.10", "lines": ["He found a meadow green with grazing spread,", "And slipped the bridle free from Rakhsh’s head."]}, {"id": "B5.1.11", "lines": ["He let him graze where tender grasses grew,", "Then sought the reeds where night lay thick with dew."]}, {"id": "B5.1.12", "lines": ["He made his bed among the reeds obscure,", "Mistaking deadly ground for ground secure."]}, {"id": "B5.1.13", "lines": ["A lion ruled that reed-grown hunting ground;", "No elephant would cut those reeds around."]}, {"id": "B5.1.14", "lines": ["One watch had passed; the lion neared his bed,", "And saw brave Rakhsh beside the sleeper’s head."]}, {"id": "B5.1.15", "lines": ["He saw the steed, and Rostam sleeping sound,", "An elephantine body, like a mound."]}, {"id": "B5.1.16", "lines": ["“First crush the horse,” he thought, “and clear my way;", "The sleeping man will then become my prey.”"]}, {"id": "B5.1.17", "lines": ["He sprang; but Rakhsh, like fire, rose in flame,", "And charged the lion as the lion came."]}, {"id": "B5.1.18", "lines": ["He struck its head with both forelegs in rage,", "Then seized its back, his sharpened jaws a cage."]}, {"id": "B5.1.19", "lines": ["He smashed the lion hard against the ground,", "And tore it till no trace of life was found."]}, {"id": "B5.1.20", "lines": ["Then Rostam woke and saw the lion slain,", "Its shattered body stretched across the plain."]}, {"id": "B5.1.21", "lines": ["He cried: “O reckless Rakhsh, who told you to fight", "A lion while I slept away the night?"]}, {"id": "B5.1.22", "lines": ["Had it slain you, what would my helm avail,", "My jowshan, Babr-e Bayan, if you fail?"]}, {"id": "B5.1.23", "lines": ["How could I bear my kamand, bow, and blade,", "My heavy gorz, along the road we made?"]}, {"id": "B5.1.24", "lines": ["Had I awakened, short would be the fight.”", "He spoke, then laid his head to rest till light."]}, {"id": "B5.1.25", "lines": ["Above the darkened mountain rose the Sun;", "Tahamtan woke when sweetest sleep was done."]}, {"id": "B5.1.26", "lines": ["He groomed and saddled Rakhsh, whose courage stood,", "Then praised pure Yazdan, giver of all good."]}, {"id": "B5.2.1", "lines": ["Before him stretched a road he could not shun,", "Across the desert underneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B5.2.2", "lines": ["The waterless waste seethed in blinding heat,", "And scorched the birds that crossed on failing feet."]}, {"id": "B5.2.3", "lines": ["The plain lay scorched as if by heaven’s flame,", "A lifeless tract no living thing could claim."]}, {"id": "B5.2.4", "lines": ["Rakhsh labored on beneath the crushing glare,", "While thirst consumed his rider with despair."]}, {"id": "B5.2.5", "lines": ["His tongue was parched, his strength began to fail;", "His sight grew dim, his senses weak and frail."]}, {"id": "B5.2.6", "lines": ["Javelin in hand, he staggered in pain,", "Like one made drunk, and searched the burning plain."]}, {"id": "B5.2.7", "lines": ["He raised his eyes: “O Judge who ends all woe,", "Let this affliction too its ending know."]}, {"id": "B5.2.8", "lines": ["If this ordeal should please You in Your sight,", "Fill up my worldly treasure by Your might."]}, {"id": "B5.2.9", "lines": ["Yet still I strive that Kavus may be freed,", "And Iran leave the Divs’ claws in its need."]}, {"id": "B5.2.10", "lines": ["Though they have sinned, they still belong to You;", "Forgive Your servants who have strayed from true.”"]}, {"id": "B5.2.11", "lines": ["Thus spoke the hero, faint with thirst and heat,", "Then sank upon the burning dust at his feet."]}, {"id": "B5.2.12", "lines": ["His tongue was cracked, his breath had nearly flown,", "When sudden hope before his eyes was shown."]}, {"id": "B5.2.13", "lines": ["A blessed ram moved lightly on the ground,", "Untouched by drought, in limb and body sound."]}, {"id": "B5.2.14", "lines": ["Rostam beheld and thought: “This creature’s way", "Must lead to water hidden from the day."]}, {"id": "B5.2.15", "lines": ["In this I see the World-Creator’s grace;", "Some spring must lie beyond this burning place.”"]}, {"id": "B5.2.16", "lines": ["Through God’s own power he rose, though nearly dead,", "And followed where the blessed ram had led."]}, {"id": "B5.2.17", "lines": ["With sword in hand, he held the reins drawn tight,", "And pressed ahead beneath the burning light."]}, {"id": "B5.2.18", "lines": ["At last he reached the spring the ram had found,", "And life returned beside its waters’ sound."]}, {"id": "B5.2.19", "lines": ["He looked to heaven: “O Judge whose rule is right,", "Your mercy led me through this deadly plight."]}, {"id": "B5.2.20", "lines": ["No sheep-track leads to where these waters shine;", "This wild ram surely is no kin of mine."]}, {"id": "B5.2.21", "lines": ["Such guidance shows the mercy of Your hand;", "No mortal chance could lead across this land."]}, {"id": "B5.2.22", "lines": ["When hardship closes every mortal way,", "Seek refuge in pure Yazdan; do not stray."]}, {"id": "B5.2.23", "lines": ["Who turns from the One Just has wisdom none;", "The mind grows dark when faith in Him is done.”"]}, {"id": "B5.2.24", "lines": ["Rostam said, “May heaven bring you no ill;", "May fortune guard and favor you there still."]}, {"id": "B5.2.25", "lines": ["May greenest pasture flourish where you tread,", "And no fierce leopard rejoice to see you dead."]}, {"id": "B5.2.26", "lines": ["Who bends a bow against you for your death,", "May bowstring snap and darkness cloud his breath."]}, {"id": "B5.2.27", "lines": ["You gave the elephant-limbed hero life;", "Else I would now lie fallen in the strife."]}, {"id": "B5.2.28", "lines": ["Or in a dragon’s maw or wolf’s embrace,", "Be torn by beasts till foes found but my trace.”"]}, {"id": "B5.2.29", "lines": ["He took the saddle from brave Rakhsh’s back,", "Then washed away the dust of that hard track."]}, {"id": "B5.2.30", "lines": ["He washed him in the spring’s clear water bright,", "Until Rakhsh shone like sunlight to the sight."]}, {"id": "B5.2.31", "lines": ["Refreshed, he girded up and strung his bow,", "Then filled his quiver, hunting forth to go."]}, {"id": "B5.2.32", "lines": ["He loosed a shaft; a Gur-e-Khar went down,", "Then stripped its hide upon the desert ground."]}, {"id": "B5.2.33", "lines": ["He heaped dry brush and set the wood aflame,", "Then roasted flesh from which new vigor came."]}, {"id": "B5.2.34", "lines": ["He ate his fill, then picked each bone clean bare,", "And stripped the final morsels he could tear."]}, {"id": "B5.2.35", "lines": ["He drank his fill beside the shining stream,", "Then laid him down to court a welcome dream."]}, {"id": "B5.2.36", "lines": ["He spoke to Rakhsh: “If danger should draw near,", "Come swiftly to my side and wake me here."]}, {"id": "B5.2.37", "lines": ["Do not engage a lion, Div, or foe;", "Let me confront it and return the blow.”"]}, {"id": "B5.2.38", "lines": ["Then Rostam slept in silence, spent and still,", "While Rakhsh grazed freely, roaming at his will."]}, {"id": "B5.2.39", "lines": ["Proud Rakhsh went grazing through the silent night,", "And fed until the midnight hour took flight."]}, {"id": "B5.3.1", "lines": ["A dragon rose upon the barren sand,", "No elephant could flee its dread command."]}, {"id": "B5.3.2", "lines": ["Its den lay deep; no Div would venture near,", "Nor cross that deadly ground without great fear."]}, {"id": "B5.3.3", "lines": ["It saw the hero sleeping on the plain,", "With restless Rakhsh beside him, tugging rein."]}, {"id": "B5.3.4", "lines": ["It thought: “What mortal dares to rest his head", "Where all who ventured here before lie dead?”"]}, {"id": "B5.3.5", "lines": ["No Div, no elephant, no lion bold", "Would dare that road or cross its deadly hold."]}, {"id": "B5.3.6", "lines": ["Who entered once was caught beneath its paws;", "No living thing escaped those killing jaws."]}, {"id": "B5.3.7", "lines": ["It turned on Rakhsh; the stallion, filled with dread,", "Rushed to his lord and stamped beside his bed."]}, {"id": "B5.3.8", "lines": ["He lashed his tail and raised a thunderous cry;", "His brazen hooves beat earth and dust on high."]}, {"id": "B5.3.9", "lines": ["The hero woke, his mind prepared for war,", "And scanned the waste but saw the beast no more."]}, {"id": "B5.3.10", "lines": ["Then anger seized him at his faithful steed;", "He cursed him for his sudden, restless deed."]}, {"id": "B5.3.11", "lines": ["Again the dragon issued from the night;", "Rakhsh pawed beside his lord with all his might."]}, {"id": "B5.3.12", "lines": ["The sleeper woke, his yellow cheeks drawn tight,", "And cursed the horse that woke him in his fright."]}, {"id": "B5.3.13", "lines": ["He searched the desert, restless and alone,", "But nothing met his eyes but dust and stone."]}, {"id": "B5.3.14", "lines": ["“Disturb me once again and you shall fall;", "My sharpened sword shall silence you for all."]}, {"id": "B5.3.15", "lines": ["My Babr-e Bayan, sword, and gorz I bear;", "On foot toward Mazandaran I shall fare."]}, {"id": "B5.3.16", "lines": ["If lion comes against you, let it stand;", "I said that I would face it with my hand."]}, {"id": "B5.3.17", "lines": ["I gave no leave, before the day grew bright,", "To rush upon me; wait till I see light.”"]}, {"id": "B5.3.18", "lines": ["He wrapped his Babr-e Bayan round him tight,", "And slept a third time in the depth of night."]}, {"id": "B5.3.19", "lines": ["The dragon roared, its breath like furnace flame;", "Rakhsh left the grass but near his lord scarce came."]}, {"id": "B5.3.20", "lines": ["He dared not close; his heart was split by fear,", "Of dragon’s rage and Rostam’s anger near."]}, {"id": "B5.3.21", "lines": ["At last his love overcame fear’s command;", "He rushed like wind and neighed and pawed the sand."]}, {"id": "B5.3.22", "lines": ["He struck the ground with all his gathered might,", "Till earth itself seemed shattered in the night."]}, {"id": "B5.3.23", "lines": ["Then Rostam started once again from sleep,", "And turned on faithful Rakhsh with anger deep."]}, {"id": "B5.3.24", "lines": ["The World-Creator willed the truth revealed;", "The dragon’s form could no more lie concealed."]}, {"id": "B5.3.25", "lines": ["He saw the dragon clearly in the night,", "And drew his sharpened sword, prepared to fight."]}, {"id": "B5.3.26", "lines": ["He roared as spring clouds roar across the sky;", "The fire of battle made the earth reply."]}, {"id": "B5.3.27", "lines": ["“Declare your name! Your death is drawing near;", "No joy remains for you to cherish here."]}, {"id": "B5.3.28", "lines": ["I will not have your soul from dark flesh fly,", "Unnamed beneath my hand when you must die.”"]}, {"id": "B5.3.29", "lines": ["The dragon roared: “None leaves my claws alive;", "No beast that enters here can long survive."]}, {"id": "B5.3.30", "lines": ["A hundred by a hundred is my plain;", "The highest arch of heaven crowns my reign."]}, {"id": "B5.3.31", "lines": ["No eagle dares to cross the sky I claim,", "Nor star in dreams looks down upon the same."]}, {"id": "B5.3.32", "lines": ["Now speak your name before your life is torn,", "So she who bore you knows whom she must mourn.”"]}, {"id": "B5.3.33", "lines": ["“I am Rostam,” the fearless hero said,", "“From Dastan, Sahm, and Nariman I am bred."]}, {"id": "B5.3.34", "lines": ["Alone I am an army on the field;", "On Rakhsh I make the stubborn earth to yield."]}, {"id": "B5.3.35", "lines": ["You soon shall learn the measure of my blade;", "Your head shall fall and in the dust be laid.”"]}, {"id": "B5.3.36", "lines": ["The dragon grappled fiercely in the fray,", "But from Tahamtan found no path away."]}, {"id": "B5.3.37", "lines": ["It battled him with overwhelming might,", "And Rakhsh beheld his master pressed in fight."]}, {"id": "B5.3.38", "lines": ["But seeing Rostam hard beset and near,", "He rushed upon the beast and cast off fear."]}, {"id": "B5.3.39", "lines": ["He laid his ears back, sprang as lions would,", "And bit the towering dragon where it stood."]}, {"id": "B5.3.40", "lines": ["He tore its shoulder with his sharpened teeth,", "Like lion’s jaws that rend the flesh beneath."]}, {"id": "B5.3.41", "lines": ["At Rakhsh’s deed great Rostam stared amazed,", "To see his steed against the dragon raised."]}, {"id": "B5.3.42", "lines": ["Then Rostam struck with one resounding blow;", "His flashing blade laid low the monstrous foe."]}, {"id": "B5.3.43", "lines": ["The severed head fell crashing to the plain,", "And blood poured forth like rivers after rain."]}, {"id": "B5.3.44", "lines": ["The monstrous body covered all the ground;", "The earth beneath its bulk could scarce be found."]}, {"id": "B5.3.45", "lines": ["A spring of blood burst from the severed frame,", "And over darkened earth the warm flood came."]}, {"id": "B5.3.46", "lines": ["Rostam drew breath, astonished at the sight;", "Even his heart was shaken by its might."]}, {"id": "B5.3.47", "lines": ["He saw warm blood stream over earth and spread,", "Then praised pure Yazdan, viewing what was shed."]}, {"id": "B5.3.48", "lines": ["He washed his head and body in the stream,", "Till every limb beneath the water gleamed."]}, {"id": "B5.3.49", "lines": ["“Through strength of the World-Keeper I prevail;", "Without His aid all mortal powers must fail."]}, {"id": "B5.3.50", "lines": ["O righteous Judge, from You my powers are:", "You gave me wisdom, strength, and royal farr."]}, {"id": "B5.3.51", "lines": ["What fear have I of lion, Div, or foe,", "Or elephant, when You sustain my blow?"]}, {"id": "B5.3.52", "lines": ["Nor waterless desert nor the Nile’s broad tide;", "With You as guard I cast all fear aside."]}, {"id": "B5.3.53", "lines": ["When anger drives me forward to the fray,", "The many and the few are one that day.”"]}, {"id": "B5.4.1", "lines": ["His praises done, he swung up on Rakhsh’s back,", "And took the road along the wizards’ track."]}, {"id": "B5.4.2", "lines": ["For long across the farsang path he strode,", "Till trees and running waters plainly showed."]}, {"id": "B5.4.3", "lines": ["There grass grew thick beside the waters green,", "A place for youthful pleasure, fresh, serene."]}, {"id": "B5.4.4", "lines": ["A spring there shone like some bright pheasant’s eye,", "With sudden bounty that would beckon by."]}, {"id": "B5.4.5", "lines": ["Wine red as pigeon’s blood, wild mutton spread,", "With salt and richal set beside the bread."]}, {"id": "B5.4.6", "lines": ["He left the saddle lying on the ground,", "And marveled at the feast that he had found."]}, {"id": "B5.4.7", "lines": ["He gazed upon the roasted meat nearby,", "And bread arranged before his wondering eye."]}, {"id": "B5.4.8", "lines": ["The feast was spread within the wizards’ lair;", "A Div withdrew and vanished into air."]}, {"id": "B5.4.9", "lines": ["He sat beside the stream with cup in hand,", "And found a fine tanbur upon the sand."]}, {"id": "B5.4.10", "lines": ["He struck its strings; the wilderness seemed all", "Transformed around him to a feasting hall."]}, {"id": "B5.4.11", "lines": ["He sang: “Ill-starred, I wander year by year;", "Few joyful days have ever brought me cheer."]}, {"id": "B5.4.12", "lines": ["My life is war with dragon and with Div;", "Through desert wilds no respite they will leave."]}, {"id": "B5.4.13", "lines": ["Wherever I may go, the field is war;", "The mount and desert are my garden floor."]}, {"id": "B5.4.14", "lines": ["No wine, no cup, no fragrant meadow’s bloom", "Has Fortune granted me to ease my gloom."]}, {"id": "B5.4.15", "lines": ["My lot is still the nahang to withstand,", "Or face the leopard roaming through the land.”"]}, {"id": "B5.4.16", "lines": ["A witch then heard his song and tanbur ring,", "And came toward Rostam at the sound of string."]}, {"id": "B5.4.17", "lines": ["She dressed her face in colors like the spring,", "Though beauty was no gift that she could bring."]}, {"id": "B5.4.18", "lines": ["With scent and color bright she reached his side,", "Then greeted him and sat beside his ride."]}, {"id": "B5.4.19", "lines": ["Then Rostam raised his voice in grateful prayer,", "And praised pure Yazdan for such bounteous fare."]}, {"id": "B5.4.20", "lines": ["For feast and wine and tanbur graced the ground,", "And now a youthful drinking friend he found."]}, {"id": "B5.4.21", "lines": ["He did not know what evil shape lay near,", "That Ahriman beneath her charms was here."]}, {"id": "B5.4.22", "lines": ["He placed a cup of wine within her hand,", "And praised the Giver of Good across the land."]}, {"id": "B5.4.23", "lines": ["At once her borrowed beauty left her face;", "Her painted charms dissolved without a trace."]}, {"id": "B5.4.24", "lines": ["Her soul knew no devotion, prayer, or light;", "At Yazdan’s name her features blackened quite."]}, {"id": "B5.4.25", "lines": ["Swift as the wind he cast his kamand wide,", "And caught her head and bound her at his side."]}, {"id": "B5.4.26", "lines": ["“Declare what thing you are, and let me see", "The face and form that truly you may be.”"]}, {"id": "B5.4.27", "lines": ["Within the coils a foul old hag was seen,", "Deep-wrinkled, stinking, hideous in mien."]}, {"id": "B5.4.28", "lines": ["With guile and magic bonds and harm replete,", "Her false enchantments ended at his feet."]}, {"id": "B5.4.29", "lines": ["He drew his khanjar, struck without delay,", "And cut her through the middle where she lay."]}, {"id": "B5.4.30", "lines": ["The other sorcerers were seized with dread;", "Through all of them her death’s swift terror spread."]}, {"id": "B5.5.1", "lines": ["He journeyed on and reached a realm of night,", "So black no star could lend the darkness light."]}, {"id": "B5.5.2", "lines": ["Within that gloom no ray could mark the way;", "The blackness swallowed every trace of day."]}, {"id": "B5.5.3", "lines": ["A star seemed caught within a kamand’s snare,", "While darkness sealed the road and blinded air."]}, {"id": "B5.5.4", "lines": ["He loosed the rein and trusted Rakhsh to tread,", "Where sight was lost and every landmark fled."]}, {"id": "B5.5.5", "lines": ["No height from stream appeared within his sight,", "So Rakhsh alone must choose the road that night."]}, {"id": "B5.5.6", "lines": ["At last he broke beyond that shadowed seam,", "And saw a land alive with field and stream."]}, {"id": "B5.5.7", "lines": ["Like painted silk the fertile valley lay,", "As though the world renewed its youth that day."]}, {"id": "B5.5.8", "lines": ["His clothes were drenched with sweat; he longed for rest,", "And stripped the Babr-e Bayan from his breast."]}, {"id": "B5.5.9", "lines": ["He took his sweat-soaked helmet from his head,", "And set them in the sunlight where it spread."]}, {"id": "B5.5.10", "lines": ["He slipped the bridle free from Rakhsh’s rein,", "And let him graze among the ripened grain."]}, {"id": "B5.5.11", "lines": ["When helm and Babr-e Bayan both were dry,", "He donned them once again beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B5.5.12", "lines": ["Like lion then upon the grass he lay,", "And gave his weary limbs to sleep that day."]}, {"id": "B5.5.13", "lines": ["The watchman saw the charger in the grain,", "And hurried toward the sleeper in disdain."]}, {"id": "B5.5.14", "lines": ["He struck the hero’s foot with sudden force,", "And cursed both sleeping man and grazing horse."]}, {"id": "B5.5.15", "lines": ["He woke him, crying Ahriman by name,", "Then turned on Rakhsh and laid the fault and blame."]}, {"id": "B5.5.16", "lines": ["“Why loose your steed among another’s toil?", "Why let him graze and trample planted soil?”"]}, {"id": "B5.5.17", "lines": ["Then Rostam rose in fury at his jeers,", "And tore out by the roots the watchman’s ears."]}, {"id": "B5.5.18", "lines": ["He spoke no word of evil or of good;", "The watchman gathered both where he had stood."]}, {"id": "B5.5.19", "lines": ["He clutched them in his hands and fled in pain,", "His blood and cries pursuing him across the plain."]}, {"id": "B5.5.20", "lines": ["He reached Ulad, the marzban young and bold,", "A famous Pahlevan whom men extolled."]}, {"id": "B5.5.21", "lines": ["He found Ulad engaged upon the chase,", "With famed companions riding at his pace."]}, {"id": "B5.5.22", "lines": ["His severed ears he carried in each hand,", "While blood ran down his face upon the land."]}, {"id": "B5.5.23", "lines": ["“Black as a Div, iron-helmed before my eyes,", "In leopard armor, Ahriman in guise!"]}, {"id": "B5.5.24", "lines": ["A dragon armored, sleeping on the ground;", "No mortal man so terrible is found."]}, {"id": "B5.5.25", "lines": ["He tore my ears away and nothing said,", "Then calmly turned and laid him on his bed!”"]}, {"id": "B5.5.26", "lines": ["Ulad rode forth with nobles at his side,", "To seek the stranger in his wounded pride."]}, {"id": "B5.5.27", "lines": ["He left the hunt and followed Rostam’s trace,", "With chosen chiefs who rode at hunting pace."]}, {"id": "B5.5.28", "lines": ["He sought to learn what stranger lay ahead,", "And why his watchman fled in pain and dread."]}, {"id": "B5.5.29", "lines": ["They reached the field and found him on the plain,", "Where Rakhsh had fed among the trampled grain."]}, {"id": "B5.5.30", "lines": ["He armed and mounted, sword drawn from its shroud,", "And rode to meet them like a thundercloud."]}, {"id": "B5.5.31", "lines": ["“What is your name?” cried Ulad. “Who are you?", "What king protects you, whom do you pursue?"]}, {"id": "B5.5.32", "lines": ["This is the road where savage lions stand;", "No stranger passes lightly through this land."]}, {"id": "B5.5.33", "lines": ["Why tear his ears? What grievance did he breed?", "What cause had he to suffer such a deed?"]}, {"id": "B5.5.34", "lines": ["Why loose your horse to ravage planted grain?", "Why waste another’s labor for your gain?"]}, {"id": "B5.5.35", "lines": ["I shall make all the world before you black,", "And grind your iron helmet under attack!”"]}, {"id": "B5.5.36", "lines": ["Rostam replied: “My name is Cloud in fight,", "A lion-cloud that fills the field with night."]}, {"id": "B5.5.37", "lines": ["My rain is spear and sword, my fruit men’s heads;", "No field survives where such a tempest spreads."]}, {"id": "B5.5.38", "lines": ["If you should hear the name by which I am known,", "Your breath and blood would freeze, your heart turn stone."]}, {"id": "B5.5.39", "lines": ["Have you not heard what bow and kamand made", "Of chiefs whose battle ranks were left dismayed?"]}, {"id": "B5.5.40", "lines": ["The mothers who bear sons like you, we call", "Shroud-sewers, born to mourn their sons who fall."]}, {"id": "B5.5.41", "lines": ["You brought an army, boasting as you came;", "Such empty words will win you only shame.”"]}, {"id": "B5.5.42", "lines": ["With that he drew his sword of deadly light,", "And rode among them eager for the fight."]}, {"id": "B5.5.43", "lines": ["Like lion among sheep he tore their rank,", "And horsemen fled before him, flank from flank."]}, {"id": "B5.5.44", "lines": ["He struck so hard two heads fell in one sweep,", "And rolled together, tumbling in a heap."]}, {"id": "B5.5.45", "lines": ["The chiefs beneath his strokes were hurled to ground,", "Their heads beneath the pounding hooves were found."]}, {"id": "B5.5.46", "lines": ["Their ranks broke wide; their courage turned to dust,", "They fled as shattered armies flee when thrust."]}, {"id": "B5.5.47", "lines": ["The plain and hills were veiled in clouds of sand,", "As horsemen fled to cave and mountain land."]}, {"id": "B5.5.48", "lines": ["Around his arm lay sixty coils wound tight;", "He chased them like an elephant in fight."]}, {"id": "B5.5.49", "lines": ["When Rakhsh drew near, Ulad’s bright day turned night;", "The fleeing chief saw darkness close his sight."]}, {"id": "B5.5.50", "lines": ["Rostam cast out the long kamand ahead,", "And caught the fleeing Ulad by the head."]}, {"id": "B5.5.51", "lines": ["He hauled him from the saddle, bound each hand,", "And drove him on before him through the land."]}, {"id": "B5.5.52", "lines": ["“If you speak truth and harbor no deceit,", "And guide me where the White Div keeps his seat,"]}, {"id": "B5.5.53", "lines": ["Where Pulad Ghandi and Bid make their lair,", "And where the Shah lies bound in grim despair;"]}, {"id": "B5.5.54", "lines": ["Show every place and make its pathway clear;", "Let nothing false or crooked reach my ear."]}, {"id": "B5.5.55", "lines": ["If every place you show me true and plain,", "I shall strip crown and throne from that king’s reign."]}, {"id": "B5.5.56", "lines": ["His heavy gorz as well shall pass from him;", "Then you shall rule his realm from rim to rim."]}, {"id": "B5.5.57", "lines": ["But if deceit is hidden in your lies,", "A river of blood shall flow from both your eyes.”"]}, {"id": "B5.5.58", "lines": ["Ulad replied: “Be merciful today;", "I shall reveal whatever marks the way."]}, {"id": "B5.5.59", "lines": ["Cast anger from your mind and clear your sight;", "Look on me now with judgment firm and right."]}, {"id": "B5.5.60", "lines": ["Restrain your wrath, and let me not be slain;", "Ask what you will, and I shall all explain."]}, {"id": "B5.5.61", "lines": ["I shall guide you through the roads and hidden ways,", "To where the Shah endures his captive days."]}, {"id": "B5.5.62", "lines": ["The house of Bid, the White Div’s secret place,", "I shall reveal if mercy grants me grace."]}, {"id": "B5.5.63", "lines": ["To Kavus is a hundred farsangs’ road;", "A hundred more to the White Div’s abode."]}, {"id": "B5.5.64", "lines": ["That second hundred winds through evil ground,", "A harsh road where no easy path is found."]}, {"id": "B5.5.65", "lines": ["Between two mountains runs that dreadful way,", "Where even Homa will not cross by day."]}, {"id": "B5.5.66", "lines": ["Two hundred chasms scar that fearful waste;", "Their depth and span no measure ever traced."]}, {"id": "B5.5.67", "lines": ["Twelve thousand fighting Divs guard every height,", "And hold the mountain passes through the night."]}, {"id": "B5.5.68", "lines": ["Pulad Ghandi commands that dreadful band,", "While Bid and Sanja guard the outer land."]}, {"id": "B5.5.69", "lines": ["The White Div rules the males who him obey;", "Before him mountains tremble like willow spray."]}, {"id": "B5.5.70", "lines": ["His body rises like a mountain wall;", "His strength could make the proudest warrior fall."]}, {"id": "B5.5.71", "lines": ["Ten ropes would span his chest and shoulders wide;", "No living foe could match him side to side."]}, {"id": "B5.5.72", "lines": ["Though sword and gorz and spear obey your art,", "To fight that Div is folly from the start."]}, {"id": "B5.5.73", "lines": ["Beyond are rocks no gazelle can cross,", "A savage ground where every step is loss."]}, {"id": "B5.5.74", "lines": ["Beyond those rocks a mighty river lies,", "More than two farsangs wide before your eyes."]}, {"id": "B5.5.75", "lines": ["A Div kanarang stands upon its side;", "The male Divs all obey him far and wide."]}, {"id": "B5.5.76", "lines": ["From Buzgush to Narmpai runs the long road,", "Three hundred farsangs under traveler’s load."]}, {"id": "B5.5.77", "lines": ["From Buzgush toward Mazandaran’s town,", "A harsh long road runs winding up and down."]}, {"id": "B5.5.78", "lines": ["And then a thousand thousand horsemen wait,", "All armed and gathered by the city’s gate."]}, {"id": "B5.5.79", "lines": ["Their troops have arms and wealth in rich array,", "And all stand ready for the battle day."]}, {"id": "B5.5.80", "lines": ["Twelve hundred war elephants fill each stall;", "Their numbers overflow the city wall."]}, {"id": "B5.5.81", "lines": ["Though you were forged of iron head to heel,", "Ahriman’s file would grind you down like steel.”"]}, {"id": "B5.5.82", "lines": ["Rostam laughed loudly at the tale he heard:", "“One man stands firm where armies have been stirred."]}, {"id": "B5.5.83", "lines": ["Guide me, and you shall see that Divish band", "Broken by one elephant-bodied hand."]}, {"id": "B5.5.84", "lines": ["With Yazdan’s victory, fortune, sword, and skill,", "I shall break their ranks and bend them to my will."]}, {"id": "B5.5.85", "lines": ["When they behold my shoulders and my frame,", "And feel my heavy gorz descend like flame,"]}, {"id": "B5.5.86", "lines": ["Their skin and sinews split beneath the blow,", "And terror through their stricken ranks shall flow."]}, {"id": "B5.5.87", "lines": ["They will not know their stirrup from their rein;", "So lead me now to Kavus in his chain.”"]}, {"id": "B5.5.88", "lines": ["He sprang on Rakhsh; Ulad ran on ahead,", "Like wind before him down the road he fled."]}, {"id": "B5.5.89", "lines": ["Through blackest night and brightness of the day,", "They reached Mount Ispuruz without delay."]}, {"id": "B5.5.90", "lines": ["Here Kavus brought his army to the field,", "Till Divs and sorcery compelled it yield."]}, {"id": "B5.5.91", "lines": ["When half the blackened night was spent and done,", "A mighty roar arose before the sun."]}, {"id": "B5.5.92", "lines": ["Then watchfires flamed through Mazandaran wide,", "And countless candles burned on every side."]}, {"id": "B5.5.93", "lines": ["“What place is this that blazes left and right?", "Why do these fires consume the face of night?”"]}, {"id": "B5.5.94", "lines": ["Ulad replied: “Mazandaran is near;", "For two parts of the night no sleep comes here."]}, {"id": "B5.5.95", "lines": ["For Arzhang Div is there; when cries arise,", "His roaring tumult shakes the darkened skies.”"]}, {"id": "B5.5.96", "lines": ["Rostam slept on until the shining Sun", "Raised up its face and night at last was done."]}, {"id": "B5.5.97", "lines": ["At dawn he took his kamand, coiled it round,", "And to a tree Ulad was tightly bound."]}, {"id": "B5.5.98", "lines": ["His fathers’ gorz he laid across the seat,", "Then rode, his heart with stratagem replete."]}, {"id": "B5.6.1", "lines": ["In royal helm and Babr-e Bayan sweat-stained,", "He sought out Arzhang where the Divs all reigned."]}, {"id": "B5.6.2", "lines": ["He entered camp and gave so vast a cry,", "It seemed to split the sea and vaulted sky."]}, {"id": "B5.6.3", "lines": ["The mountains reeled beneath that dreadful sound,", "And terror swept the Divs on every ground."]}, {"id": "B5.6.4", "lines": ["At that great cry, from out his tent he sprang,", "While through the camp the dreadful tumult rang."]}, {"id": "B5.6.5", "lines": ["Like Azargashasp, Rostam spurred ahead,", "And closed on Arzhang with a lightning tread."]}, {"id": "B5.6.6", "lines": ["He seized his head, his ears, his hair, and drove", "The warlord backward, though he fought and strove."]}, {"id": "B5.6.7", "lines": ["Then lion-like he tore the head away,", "And cast the lifeless trunk aside as prey."]}, {"id": "B5.6.8", "lines": ["Before the gathered Divs he flung the head,", "Its blood still flowing as their courage fled."]}, {"id": "B5.6.9", "lines": ["At sight of that, the Divs broke into run,", "And fleeing fathers overtook each son."]}, {"id": "B5.6.10", "lines": ["They thought no more of homeland or of stay,", "But cast both home and safety far away."]}, {"id": "B5.6.11", "lines": ["Their ranks dissolved; each sought a separate track,", "And none among them dared to turn his back."]}, {"id": "B5.6.12", "lines": ["Then Rostam drew revenge’s sharpened blade,", "And cleared the field of Divs who stood arrayed."]}, {"id": "B5.6.13", "lines": ["At sunset back to Ispuruz he came,", "Returning swiftly from the field of flame."]}, {"id": "B5.6.14", "lines": ["Beneath a lofty tree, with gentle hand,", "He freed Ulad from the binding kamand."]}, {"id": "B5.6.15", "lines": ["Then asked, “What road leads where Kavus is bound?", "What path will take me to that captive ground?”"]}, {"id": "B5.6.16", "lines": ["Ulad described the road and took the lead,", "On foot he ran before the mounted steed."]}, {"id": "B5.6.17", "lines": ["They reached the city; Rakhsh gave out a cry", "Like thunder rolling through the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "B5.6.18", "lines": ["Kavus heard and knew that thunderous sound,", "And raised his weary head from captive ground."]}, {"id": "B5.6.19", "lines": ["He cried, “Our evil days have reached their close;", "My heart grows young, my spirit newly rose."]}, {"id": "B5.6.20", "lines": ["I knew that call in Kay Qobad’s old day,", "When Rostam drove Turan’s king from the fray.”"]}, {"id": "B5.6.21", "lines": ["The captives said, “These bonds have crushed his mind,", "And ruined the soul that suffering confined."]}, {"id": "B5.6.22", "lines": ["His wisdom, sense, and farr have left his head;", "He speaks as though still dreaming in his bed."]}, {"id": "B5.6.23", "lines": ["No cure remains within these bonds we bear;", "Our Fortune turned and left us to despair.”"]}, {"id": "B5.6.24", "lines": ["Then Rostam, lover of the clash, drew near,", "The mighty chief who made his foes know fear."]}, {"id": "B5.6.25", "lines": ["Gudarz and Tus and Giv came to his side,", "With Bahram, hearts with sudden hope supplied."]}, {"id": "B5.6.26", "lines": ["Then Gostaham and Shidush joined the throng,", "While tears of joy rose up, restrained too long."]}, {"id": "B5.6.27", "lines": ["He wept, then bowed in homage at his feet,", "And asked what trials had made their grief complete."]}, {"id": "B5.6.28", "lines": ["Kavus embraced him, drew him to his breast,", "Asked after Zal and hardships of his quest."]}, {"id": "B5.6.29", "lines": ["Then Kavus whispered, “Hide brave Rakhsh from sight;", "Let no sorcerer behold him day or night."]}, {"id": "B5.6.30", "lines": ["If White Div learns that Arzhang has been slain,", "And you are here, the male Divs flood the plain."]}, {"id": "B5.6.31", "lines": ["They all will gather, filling every way;", "Your toil will fail beneath their vast array."]}, {"id": "B5.6.32", "lines": ["Go now toward the White Div’s dark abode;", "With body, sword, and arrows bear the road."]}, {"id": "B5.6.33", "lines": ["If pure Yazdan grants you strength and aid,", "Bring sorcerers’ heads to dust beneath your blade."]}, {"id": "B5.6.34", "lines": ["Beyond lie seven mountains in a chain,", "With bands of Divs arrayed on every plain."]}, {"id": "B5.6.35", "lines": ["Then comes a cave, a place of dread and night;", "Male Divs like leopards guard its inward height."]}, {"id": "B5.6.36", "lines": ["Within, the White Div gives them hope and dread;", "Strike down their chief, and all their strength lies dead."]}, {"id": "B5.6.37", "lines": ["Grief darkened every captive warrior’s eye;", "My own, too, sunk in endless darkness lie."]}, {"id": "B5.6.38", "lines": ["The healers place their hope in blood they gain", "From White Div’s heart and from his monstrous brain."]}, {"id": "B5.6.39", "lines": ["A wise physician says his blood must fall", "Like tears; three drops are cure enough for all."]}, {"id": "B5.6.40", "lines": ["Let those three drops fall in the darkened eye;", "The blood will draw the blindness out and dry.”"]}, {"id": "B5.6.41", "lines": ["Then Rostam rose and girded for the fight,", "His purpose fixed, his warrior’s spirit bright."]}, {"id": "B5.6.42", "lines": ["He said, “Stay wakeful; keep your courage true;", "My purpose now is White Div to pursue."]}, {"id": "B5.6.43", "lines": ["A battle-elephant, shrewd in the fray,", "A cunning strategist who knows the way."]}, {"id": "B5.6.44", "lines": ["A mighty army gathers at his side,", "With countless male Divs standing as his pride."]}, {"id": "B5.6.45", "lines": ["If he should bend my back beneath his chain,", "Long shame and sorrow will with you remain."]}, {"id": "B5.6.46", "lines": ["But if Yazdan of Sun will be my shield,", "And strengthen my good star, my heart is steeled,"]}, {"id": "B5.6.47", "lines": ["Then land and throne shall rise from grief made free,", "And Iran once again its realm shall see."]}, {"id": "B5.6.48", "lines": ["The royal tree shall bear the fruit it bore,", "And ancient royal glory we restore.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.1", "lines": ["He girded for revenge and took the way,", "And urged brave Rakhsh toward the coming fray."]}, {"id": "B5.7.2", "lines": ["Ulad beside him served as faithful guide,", "While Rakhsh like wind went racing at his side."]}, {"id": "B5.7.3", "lines": ["When he had crossed the seven mountain chains,", "He saw the Divish camps across the plains."]}, {"id": "B5.7.4", "lines": ["Before a cavern black as starless night,", "He paused and judged the ground and guarded site."]}, {"id": "B5.7.5", "lines": ["Around the cavern countless Divs were found,", "Their guarding army ringed the sunken ground."]}, {"id": "B5.7.6", "lines": ["He said to Ulad: “You have led me true;", "Now show the hidden road I must pursue.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.7", "lines": ["Ulad replied: “When noon burns fierce and high,", "The Divs grow weary and in slumber lie."]}, {"id": "B5.7.8", "lines": ["Wait till they sleep; few watchers will remain,", "Then trust the Victorious One upon the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.9", "lines": ["He waited till the noonday Sun blazed hot,", "Bound Ulad head to foot in tightened knot."]}, {"id": "B5.7.10", "lines": ["He mounted Rakhsh and drew his tempered blade,", "And toward the guards his thunderous onset made."]}, {"id": "B5.7.11", "lines": ["He cried his name like thunder wrapped in flame,", "And charged among the Divs who heard that name."]}, {"id": "B5.7.12", "lines": ["He struck down chiefs and drove the rest away;", "None dared remain to bar Tahamtan’s way."]}, {"id": "B5.7.13", "lines": ["Like shining Sun he rode where White Div lay,", "And pressed toward the cavern without delay."]}, {"id": "B5.7.14", "lines": ["A hell-like pit yawned cavernous and deep;", "Its bottom vanished where the shadows sleep."]}, {"id": "B5.7.15", "lines": ["With sword in hand he sought a place to fight;", "No path to flee appeared within the night."]}, {"id": "B5.7.16", "lines": ["He waited till his eyes could bear the gloom,", "And let their sight grow used to that dark room."]}, {"id": "B5.7.17", "lines": ["He rubbed his lashes, cleared his eyes of haze,", "Then through the heavy dark he fixed his gaze."]}, {"id": "B5.7.18", "lines": ["He searched the cavern, scanning left and right;", "At last a monstrous shape appeared in sight."]}, {"id": "B5.7.19", "lines": ["Like some vast mountain, dark and huge, it lay;", "Its monstrous breadth concealed the cave away."]}, {"id": "B5.7.20", "lines": ["The cavern seemed beneath its bulk to hide;", "No empty space appeared on either side."]}, {"id": "B5.7.21", "lines": ["Its heavy mane hung thick about its frame,", "A living shadow vast in bulk and name."]}, {"id": "B5.7.22", "lines": ["Its face was black as jet within the lair,", "And like a lion’s mane hung down its hair."]}, {"id": "B5.7.23", "lines": ["He found it sleeping, yet refused to slay;", "He roared like leopard, calling it to fray."]}, {"id": "B5.7.24", "lines": ["Its breadth and height seemed all the cave to fill,", "A mountain formed of flesh and brutal will."]}, {"id": "B5.7.25", "lines": ["It woke and surged, a black mount armed for fight,", "With iron arms and helmet iron-bright."]}, {"id": "B5.7.26", "lines": ["A millstone in its grasp it raised and threw,", "Then rushed on Rostam as the missile flew."]}, {"id": "B5.7.27", "lines": ["For one brief breath his heart knew sudden dread;", "He saw what mortal peril lay ahead."]}, {"id": "B5.7.28", "lines": ["Like raging lion Rostam struck away", "One thigh and leg from White Div in the fray."]}, {"id": "B5.7.29", "lines": ["Though maimed, upon one leg it fought him still;", "Its fury shook the cavern with its will."]}, {"id": "B5.7.30", "lines": ["It overturned the cavern in its rage;", "The walls resounded like a shattered cage."]}, {"id": "B5.7.31", "lines": ["It seized at Rostam’s neck with crushing grip,", "And strove to make the Pahlevan’s footing slip."]}, {"id": "B5.7.32", "lines": ["They grappled close and tore at flesh and bone,", "Each fought as though the world were his alone."]}, {"id": "B5.7.33", "lines": ["Their streaming blood made mud across the ground,", "While flesh was torn and scattered all around."]}, {"id": "B5.7.34", "lines": ["They wrestled long, each striving to prevail,", "Until the cavern echoed with travail."]}, {"id": "B5.7.35", "lines": ["Then Rostam thought: “If I survive today,", "I shall live forever after this affray.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.36", "lines": ["The White Div thought: “Sweet life is lost to me;", "If I escape this dragon, none shall see."]}, {"id": "B5.7.37", "lines": ["No great or small in Mazandaran shall know", "Where I have gone if from his claws I go.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.38", "lines": ["The Life-Creator strengthened Rostam’s hand,", "And gave him force that none could long withstand."]}, {"id": "B5.7.39", "lines": ["He seized the White Div, lifted him on high,", "And hurled him down with force that shook the sky."]}, {"id": "B5.7.40", "lines": ["The life fled out beneath that crushing fall,", "And silence spread along the cavern wall."]}, {"id": "B5.7.41", "lines": ["He drew his khanjar, drove it through the core,", "And tore the heart the monstrous creature bore."]}, {"id": "B5.7.42", "lines": ["He ripped the liver from the monster’s side,", "While blood like rivers streamed both deep and wide."]}, {"id": "B5.7.43", "lines": ["The cavern filled with corpses of the dead;", "The world seemed like a sea of blood run red."]}, {"id": "B5.7.44", "lines": ["Then Rostam turned, his dreadful labor done,", "And left the cavern where the blood had run."]}, {"id": "B5.7.45", "lines": ["He freed Ulad and cast the cords aside;", "The marzban rose and stood at Rostam’s side."]}, {"id": "B5.7.46", "lines": ["His royal kamand to the saddle strap he tied,", "Then turned brave Rakhsh toward the outward ride."]}, {"id": "B5.7.47", "lines": ["He placed the liver in Ulad’s own care,", "And said: “Guard well the cure that you now bear.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.48", "lines": ["Then back toward Kay Kavus he made his way,", "The White Div slain within his cave that day."]}, {"id": "B5.7.49", "lines": ["Ulad then said: “O lion fierce in war,", "Your sword has humbled all who stood before."]}, {"id": "B5.7.50", "lines": ["The marks of your kamand still score my side;", "To break your pledged word would your fame deride.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.51", "lines": ["Rostam replied: “I pledge each field and town;", "When all is finished, yours shall be its crown."]}, {"id": "B5.7.52", "lines": ["One long and difficult task still remains;", "Its road climbs heights and falls through bitter pains."]}, {"id": "B5.7.53", "lines": ["First Mazandaran’s king must lose his throne;", "I shall cast him in a well of stone."]}, {"id": "B5.7.54", "lines": ["Then countless thousands of the Divs remain;", "Their sorcerous heads must fall beneath the slain."]}, {"id": "B5.7.55", "lines": ["If I go down to dust once this is through,", "My pledge remains; if living, I serve you.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.56", "lines": ["He reached the Shah; a joyful cry rang clear,", "And all the captive champions gathered near."]}, {"id": "B5.7.57", "lines": ["They rushed to greet him, praising Rostam’s name,", "And hailed the chief who crowned himself with fame."]}, {"id": "B5.7.58", "lines": ["He said: “Rejoice! The White Div now is slain;", "His power is broken and his strength made vain."]}, {"id": "B5.7.59", "lines": ["I ripped the liver from his body dark;", "Of White Div’s dreaded name remains no mark.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.60", "lines": ["Kavus embraced him, tears upon his brow:", "“May crown and army never lack you now."]}, {"id": "B5.7.61", "lines": ["Blessed the mother who gave birth to you;", "No woman bore a champion half so true."]}, {"id": "B5.7.62", "lines": ["A thousand blessings fall on Zal’s great line,", "And on your Zabul, for this deed divine."]}, {"id": "B5.7.63", "lines": ["No age has seen your equal in its span,", "Nor Time produced another such a man."]}, {"id": "B5.7.64", "lines": ["My Fortune too is happier in renown,", "To have such lion-slayer serve my crown."]}, {"id": "B5.7.65", "lines": ["Now place White Div’s blood upon our eyes,", "That I may see your face beneath the skies.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.66", "lines": ["He touched the blood to every darkened lid,", "And sight returned; the darkness from them slid."]}, {"id": "B5.7.67", "lines": ["Their darkened eyes grew Sun-like, clear and bright,", "And all the chiefs rejoiced in new-found sight."]}, {"id": "B5.7.68", "lines": ["An ivory throne was raised beneath the king,", "Above it hung the crown in glittering ring."]}, {"id": "B5.7.69", "lines": ["The Shah then took Mazandaran’s royal seat,", "With Rostam and the chiefs before his feet."]}, {"id": "B5.7.70", "lines": ["With Rostam stood the chiefs in proud array:", "Tus, Fariborz, Gudarz, and Giv that day."]}, {"id": "B5.7.71", "lines": ["Rohham and Gorgin, Bahram famed in fight,", "All gathered round the Shah with hearts made light,"]}, {"id": "B5.7.72", "lines": ["Together round the rescued monarch stood,", "Their sight restored, their spirits bright and good."]}, {"id": "B5.7.73", "lines": ["For one full week they feasted, cup in hand,", "With wine and rud resounding through the land."]}, {"id": "B5.7.74", "lines": ["Upon the eighth day all the chiefs bestrode", "Their horses and resumed the martial road."]}, {"id": "B5.7.75", "lines": ["Their heavy gorz rose high, a sight of dread;", "Through Mazandaran their gathered forces spread."]}, {"id": "B5.7.76", "lines": ["Like fire they spread through fields of brittle reed,", "And struck with gorz and blade in ruthless speed."]}, {"id": "B5.7.77", "lines": ["Their sharpened swords struck sparks and kindled flame;", "The city burned wherever warriors came."]}, {"id": "B5.7.78", "lines": ["A stream of blood ran red across the land,", "As sorcerers fell beneath Iran’s hand."]}, {"id": "B5.7.79", "lines": ["At nightfall all the warriors ceased the fight,", "And rested from the slaughter through the night."]}, {"id": "B5.7.80", "lines": ["At last the Shah declared: “The debt is paid;", "Full recompense for every wrong is laid."]}, {"id": "B5.7.81", "lines": ["They have received the fruit their deeds increase;", "Enough of killing; let the slaughter cease."]}, {"id": "B5.7.82", "lines": ["Choose now a weighty man, both wise and gray,", "Who knows the hour for haste, the hour for stay."]}, {"id": "B5.7.83", "lines": ["Send him before Mazandaran’s royal heart,", "To wake his mind through wisdom and through art.”"]}, {"id": "B5.7.84", "lines": ["Zal’s son and all the chiefs approved the plan,", "And chose their course before the gathered clan."]}, {"id": "B5.7.85", "lines": ["Then to the king their written words took flight,", "To kindle his dark spirit into light."]}, {"id": "B5.8.1", "lines": ["On white silk Kavus set the page in place,", "And called a practiced scribe of skill and grace."]}, {"id": "B5.8.2", "lines": ["He shaped the letter, weighing every word,", "Both mild and stern, so hope and fear were stirred."]}, {"id": "B5.8.3", "lines": ["He praised the Just One, source of every art,", "Who grants mankind discernment, mind, and heart."]}, {"id": "B5.8.4", "lines": ["Who turns the sphere and fashioned wrath and love,", "And set the circling heavens high above."]}, {"id": "B5.8.5", "lines": ["Who gave mankind the choice of good and ill,", "And guides the sun and moon by sovereign will."]}, {"id": "B5.8.6", "lines": ["“If one stands just, with faith both firm and clear,", "All people praise him and will hold him dear."]}, {"id": "B5.8.7", "lines": ["But if he turns to harm and crooked path,", "He draws down on himself the heavens’ wrath."]}, {"id": "B5.8.8", "lines": ["If God is just, why spurn His law and stray?", "Why turn from truth and draw His wrath your way?"]}, {"id": "B5.8.9", "lines": ["You now have heard what fate befell your band:", "Yazdan swept Divs and sorcery from land."]}, {"id": "B5.8.10", "lines": ["If sense and judgment still within you live,", "Then weigh the choice that reason bids you give."]}, {"id": "B5.8.11", "lines": ["Come to my court and set your pride aside,", "As subject now beneath my rule abide."]}, {"id": "B5.8.12", "lines": ["Submit like all who bow before the throne,", "And live secure with lands still called your own."]}, {"id": "B5.8.13", "lines": ["For none can stand when Rostam takes the field;", "His strength has forced the proudest foes to yield."]}, {"id": "B5.8.14", "lines": ["Pay tribute then, and keep your lands in peace;", "Let conflict end and needless bloodshed cease."]}, {"id": "B5.8.15", "lines": ["But if defiance is the path you tread,", "Join Arzhang and White Div among the dead.”"]}, {"id": "B5.8.16", "lines": ["With musk and ambergris the seal was made,", "And in a warrior’s hands the letter laid."]}, {"id": "B5.8.17", "lines": ["Farhad, known among the nobles for his skill,", "Was charged to bear the Shah’s commanding will."]}, {"id": "B5.8.18", "lines": ["No idleness had ever checked his pace,", "And vigor marked his bearing and his face."]}, {"id": "B5.8.19", "lines": ["“Take this wise counsel to the Div who fled,", "Escaped from bonds; now speak what I have said.”"]}, {"id": "B5.8.20", "lines": ["He kissed the earth and took the letter sealed,", "Then rode until Mazandaran stood revealed."]}, {"id": "B5.8.21", "lines": ["He reached the Narmpai country, native home", "Where steel-chewers on leathern feet would roam."]}, {"id": "B5.8.22", "lines": ["There Mazandaran’s king and chiefs were found,", "With bold sepahbods gathered all around."]}, {"id": "B5.8.23", "lines": ["He sent a rider on to tell the king", "That Kavus’s envoy came his word to bring."]}, {"id": "B5.8.24", "lines": ["The king was told a wise envoy drew near,", "From Kavus’s court with counsel for his ear."]}, {"id": "B5.8.25", "lines": ["He chose his warriors one by one for might,", "And bade them show their prowess in his sight."]}, {"id": "B5.8.26", "lines": ["“Let him behold what separates mankind", "From Divs whose strength leaves mortal force behind."]}, {"id": "B5.8.27", "lines": ["Go meet him like the leopard on its prey,", "And let your Div-like strength his heart dismay.”"]}, {"id": "B5.8.28", "lines": ["They came in force and grimly closed him round,", "Their anger thick as storm-clouds on the ground."]}, {"id": "B5.8.29", "lines": ["One seized his hand and crushed with savage force,", "Till pain through bone and sinew ran its course."]}, {"id": "B5.8.30", "lines": ["Yet Farhad held his ground beneath the strain;", "His face showed neither pallor nor the pain."]}, {"id": "B5.8.31", "lines": ["The king received him, asked how Kavus fared,", "And what hard trials upon the road he shared."]}, {"id": "B5.8.32", "lines": ["They scattered wine and musk on silk of white,", "Then set the scented letter in plain sight."]}, {"id": "B5.8.33", "lines": ["A Mobad read the letter to them all,", "And every word struck like a karnay call."]}, {"id": "B5.8.34", "lines": ["The king grew tense and darkened at the tone,", "While pride and fury claimed him for their own."]}, {"id": "B5.8.35", "lines": ["When he heard tell of Arzhang fallen low,", "And of the White Div struck by fatal blow,"]}, {"id": "B5.8.36", "lines": ["Heart’s blood seemed gathered in his burning eyes,", "As grief and anger in his breast would rise."]}, {"id": "B5.8.37", "lines": ["“The sun may sink; the weary world may sleep,", "But Rostam’s name no night can bury deep.”"]}, {"id": "B5.8.38", "lines": ["He grieved for Bid and Pulad Ghandi’s plight,", "Both stricken in the ruin of that fight."]}, {"id": "B5.8.39", "lines": ["For three full days Farhad remained his guest,", "Among his chiefs and comrades, taking rest."]}, {"id": "B5.8.40", "lines": ["Three days had passed; and when the fourth day broke,", "Farhad stood by until the monarch spoke."]}, {"id": "B5.8.41", "lines": ["At last he spoke with scorn and rising heat:", "“Go to your foolish Shah, and this repeat:"]}, {"id": "B5.8.42", "lines": ["Tell Kavus: when can sea-water turn to wine?", "Your counsel cannot alter my design."]}, {"id": "B5.8.43", "lines": ["Am I the sort to yield my crown and land", "At another’s word, or bow to his command?"]}, {"id": "B5.8.44", "lines": ["My court stands higher than your king’s renown;", "My armies dwarf the forces of his crown."]}, {"id": "B5.8.45", "lines": ["Thousands on thousands answer to my call,", "And where they march, the mightiest kingdoms fall."]}, {"id": "B5.8.46", "lines": ["Wherever they advance in war’s attack,", "No stone, no color, scent remains intact."]}, {"id": "B5.8.47", "lines": ["I stand resolved and ready for the fight,", "And yield no span of kingdom or of right."]}, {"id": "B5.8.48", "lines": ["My lions will advance with roaring sweep,", "And wake you, Kavus, from your sweetest sleep."]}, {"id": "B5.8.49", "lines": ["Twelve hundred war-elephants, fierce and strong,", "And not one beast of yours can match their throng."]}, {"id": "B5.8.50", "lines": ["Such dust shall rise across Iran’s whole face,", "Till height and abyss seem the selfsame place.”"]}, {"id": "B5.8.51", "lines": ["When Farhad heard the pride within that speech,", "He saw the gulf no reason now could reach."]}, {"id": "B5.8.52", "lines": ["He took his leave and rode through hill and dale,", "To bear the Shah that proud and vaunting tale:"]}, {"id": "B5.8.53", "lines": ["“The king exalts himself beyond the sky,", "And counts the world as nothing in his eye."]}, {"id": "B5.8.54", "lines": ["He would not hear the counsel I made known;", "His will is fixed, his arrogance full-grown.”"]}, {"id": "B5.8.55", "lines": ["Then Kavus called the champion to his side,", "And told him all the envoy had replied."]}, {"id": "B5.8.56", "lines": ["The hero answered, steady, fierce, and clear:", "“I will remove the shame that lingers here."]}, {"id": "B5.8.57", "lines": ["Let me return his answer with my blade,", "Not sealed in ink, but openly displayed."]}, {"id": "B5.8.58", "lines": ["Not words alone, but thunder in their sound,", "To shake his throne and tear his power down."]}, {"id": "B5.8.59", "lines": ["I will go myself; my words shall strike with dread,", "And rivers through his land shall run blood-red.”"]}, {"id": "B5.8.60", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Through you my crown has light;", "You are my envoy and my strength in fight."]}, {"id": "B5.8.61", "lines": ["You are my envoy, tiger fierce and strong,", "A lion in revenge against the wrong.”"]}, {"id": "B5.8.62", "lines": ["A scribe was called; his pen like arrow flew,", "And shaped a letter forceful, sharp, and true."]}, {"id": "B5.8.63", "lines": ["“Such speech ill suits a ruler sound of mind;", "Cast off your pride and leave such words behind."]}, {"id": "B5.8.64", "lines": ["Obey at once, submit, and bend the knee,", "As servants do when kings give their decree."]}, {"id": "B5.8.65", "lines": ["But if you turn and choose defiant strife,", "My armies will descend to end your life."]}, {"id": "B5.8.66", "lines": ["From sea to sea my banners will extend,", "And bring your rule to sudden, final end."]}, {"id": "B5.8.67", "lines": ["The White Div’s spirit gives the vultures cheer:", "Your brain shall be their feast when I draw near.”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.1", "lines": ["The letter sealed, bold Rostam rode away,", "His mighty gorz prepared for coming fray."]}, {"id": "B5.9.2", "lines": ["The king was told: “The Shah has sent his best,", "A savage envoy on a martial quest."]}, {"id": "B5.9.3", "lines": ["A lion-man with kamand at his side,", "An elephant in frame, on Rakhsh astride.”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.4", "lines": ["The king sent chiefs in springtime robes to meet", "The lion-envoy riding toward his seat."]}, {"id": "B5.9.5", "lines": ["But Rostam marked a tree beside the track,", "Gripped two great branches, twisted both far back."]}, {"id": "B5.9.6", "lines": ["He tore it root and all from earth below,", "And raised it like a reed before the foe."]}, {"id": "B5.9.7", "lines": ["He hurled it forth; its branches, wide and vast,", "Struck down the riders as it thundered past."]}, {"id": "B5.9.8", "lines": ["A foremost chief then seized him by the hand,", "To test his strength and see if he could stand."]}, {"id": "B5.9.9", "lines": ["He crushed it hard, intent to make him yield,", "But Rostam laughed and no distress revealed."]}, {"id": "B5.9.10", "lines": ["Then Rostam crushed his hand with sudden force,", "Till all the noble’s strength had run its course."]}, {"id": "B5.9.11", "lines": ["The chief grew pale; his senses left him quite,", "And from his horse he fell, bereft of might."]}, {"id": "B5.9.12", "lines": ["The king was told what happened on the way,", "And summoned Kalahur without delay."]}, {"id": "B5.9.13", "lines": ["He came as leopard-fierce, his spirit high,", "A battle-hardened chief with fearless eye."]}, {"id": "B5.9.14", "lines": ["“Go meet this envoy; test his vaunted might,", "And fill his eyes with tears before my sight.”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.15", "lines": ["He came to Rostam, proud and fierce of face,", "And seized his hand with measured, testing grace."]}, {"id": "B5.9.16", "lines": ["He pressed it hard till veins rose dark and blue,", "Yet Rostam smiled and let no anguish through."]}, {"id": "B5.9.17", "lines": ["Then with one grip he crushed Kalahur’s hand,", "Till nails fell off like leaves upon the sand."]}, {"id": "B5.9.18", "lines": ["He staggered back, his hanging hand in pain,", "With nails and sinews torn beneath the strain."]}, {"id": "B5.9.19", "lines": ["“No man can stand against this one in strife;", "His strength exceeds the bounds of mortal life."]}, {"id": "B5.9.20", "lines": ["Seek peace at once and pay the tribute due;", "Make terms before this champion ruins you.”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.21", "lines": ["Then Rostam strode before the monarch’s seat,", "A raging elephant no force could meet."]}, {"id": "B5.9.22", "lines": ["The king received him, set him high in place,", "And spoke with guarded tone and measured grace:"]}, {"id": "B5.9.23", "lines": ["“Tell me of Kavus, of his men and might,", "What hardships met you over depth and height."]}, {"id": "B5.9.24", "lines": ["Are you that Rostam? Such a chest and arm", "Could strike the boldest warrior with alarm?”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.25", "lines": ["He said: “I serve the greatest warrior known;", "No man can match the might in Rostam shown."]}, {"id": "B5.9.26", "lines": ["Since World-Creator first gave earth its frame,", "No chief has risen equal to his name."]}, {"id": "B5.9.27", "lines": ["In war he stands, a mountain none can move;", "No words suffice his mighty deeds to prove."]}, {"id": "B5.9.28", "lines": ["He makes the mountain sea when pressed to fight,", "And makes the sea a mountain by his might."]}, {"id": "B5.9.29", "lines": ["No tongue can tell of Rakhsh, the gorz he wields;", "No champion dares confront him on the fields."]}, {"id": "B5.9.30", "lines": ["He is an army in himself complete,", "And sends me here his message to repeat."]}, {"id": "B5.9.31", "lines": ["If you are wise, then cease from evil ways;", "You have sown ruin through your reckless days."]}, {"id": "B5.9.32", "lines": ["How have you treated Iran’s Shah and men,", "And laid such cruel hands upon them then?"]}, {"id": "B5.9.33", "lines": ["Perhaps you have not heard of Rostam’s name,", "Who bends the world and puts the stars to shame."]}, {"id": "B5.9.34", "lines": ["If Kavus gave him leave to enter fight,", "Not one of all your men would see the light."]}, {"id": "B5.9.35", "lines": ["Your head shall crown the point of Rostam’s spear;", "His mighty arm will end your kingship here.”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.36", "lines": ["He placed the letter in the monarch’s hand,", "Its cutting words were more than he could stand."]}, {"id": "B5.9.37", "lines": ["The king read on and darkened at the tone,", "While anger hardened in his heart like stone."]}, {"id": "B5.9.38", "lines": ["“What are these words? What folly and what pride?", "Why should I heed the threats they hold inside?"]}, {"id": "B5.9.39", "lines": ["Say this to Kavus: ‘Though you bear the crown,", "I will not bend to you or bow me down."]}, {"id": "B5.9.40", "lines": ["I rule Mazandaran with crown and might;", "My throne stands firm, my armies armed for fight."]}, {"id": "B5.9.41", "lines": ["To summon me as though I were your slave", "Is neither just nor fitting for the brave."]}, {"id": "B5.9.42", "lines": ["Turn back to Iran and draw your bridle round,", "Or my sharp spear will strike you to the ground."]}, {"id": "B5.9.43", "lines": ["If once my armies march in battle’s heat,", "You will not know your head from your own feet.’"]}, {"id": "B5.9.44", "lines": ["Say also this to Rostam, famed in might:", "Whatever Kavus grants, I grant outright,"]}, {"id": "B5.9.45", "lines": ["A hundredfold; I raise him over all,", "And set his name the highest in my hall."]}, {"id": "B5.9.46", "lines": ["Command my chiefs; my treasures yours to hold;", "And take my riches, silver, gems, and gold.”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.47", "lines": ["He answered then, his anger fierce and plain:", "“O witless king, pride has deranged your brain!"]}, {"id": "B5.9.48", "lines": ["Has Rostam need of troops or rich reward?", "His strength exceeds what any king can hoard."]}, {"id": "B5.9.49", "lines": ["The son of Zal stands peerless in the land;", "No rival born can meet him hand to hand."]}, {"id": "B5.9.50", "lines": ["Restrain your tongue, or ruin follows fast;", "Whoever challenges him will not last.”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.51", "lines": ["The king grew wild; his heart was set on death,", "And called the headsman forth with furious breath:"]}, {"id": "B5.9.52", "lines": ["“Seize him at once and do as I command;", "Strike off his head before the gathered band!”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.53", "lines": ["The headsman came, prepared to strike him dead,", "And strode toward Rostam to remove his head."]}, {"id": "B5.9.54", "lines": ["But Rostam roared like lion roused to kill,", "And seized the man with overwhelming will."]}, {"id": "B5.9.55", "lines": ["He hurled him down and seized him by the thighs,", "Then tore him into two before their eyes."]}, {"id": "B5.9.56", "lines": ["All stared in shock; the hall fell deathly still,", "Appalled before such brutal strength and skill."]}, {"id": "B5.9.57", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “Had Kavus let me slay,", "I would have dealt with all your men this way.”"]}, {"id": "B5.9.58", "lines": ["The frightened king sent robe and horse and gold,", "To soothe the envoy, furious and bold."]}, {"id": "B5.9.59", "lines": ["He spurned them all; such gifts could bring him shame,", "No belt or crown could purchase Rostam’s name."]}, {"id": "B5.9.60", "lines": ["He left Mazandaran, his anger high,", "And moon and stars grew dark before his eye."]}, {"id": "B5.9.61", "lines": ["He came before the Shah and told him all,", "The threats, the boasts, the words within the hall."]}, {"id": "B5.9.62", "lines": ["He said: “Take heart; array the troops for fight;", "Their strength is nothing worth a moment’s fright."]}, {"id": "B5.9.63", "lines": ["I count them not; my gorz will strike them low,", "And sweep their vaunted champions at a blow."]}, {"id": "B5.9.64", "lines": ["They weigh not even one small speck of dust;", "My gorz will grind their iron might to rust.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.1", "lines": ["When Rostam left, the sorcerer-king moved fast,", "And marshaled all his warriors grim and vast."]}, {"id": "B5.10.2", "lines": ["He raised his tents and spread his forces wide,", "Their dust concealed the sun on every side."]}, {"id": "B5.10.3", "lines": ["The hills grew dim beneath their marching tread,", "And earth beneath the elephants seemed dead."]}, {"id": "B5.10.4", "lines": ["He marched like wind that sweeps the desert’s face,", "And none could stand before his rushing pace."]}, {"id": "B5.10.5", "lines": ["When Kavus heard, “The Divs are drawing near,”", "He bade his men take up their shield and spear."]}, {"id": "B5.10.6", "lines": ["To Rostam first he gave the battle sign,", "Then Tus took right and Gudarz left the line."]}, {"id": "B5.10.7", "lines": ["With Giv and Gorgin, proven chiefs of fame,", "He called the warriors each by rank and name."]}, {"id": "B5.10.8", "lines": ["They dressed their shields and spearpoints for the fray,", "And drew the royal pavilions in array."]}, {"id": "B5.10.9", "lines": ["They pitched their camps across the open plain,", "And set their lines with care from van to train."]}, {"id": "B5.10.10", "lines": ["On Kavus’s right, Tus made the war-horn cry,", "Its brazen thunder rolled against the sky."]}, {"id": "B5.10.11", "lines": ["Upon the left stood Gudarz, battle-wise,", "Son of Keshvad, beneath the darkened skies."]}, {"id": "B5.10.12", "lines": ["His ranks, an iron mountain, stood arrayed,", "With spearpoints massed beneath the darkened shade."]}, {"id": "B5.10.13", "lines": ["The Shah himself stood centered, firm and grand,", "And ordered every line at his command."]}, {"id": "B5.10.14", "lines": ["The armies formed, while Rostam led the van,", "Whose arm had never yielded to a man."]}, {"id": "B5.10.15", "lines": ["Then Juya came, fierce fighter, vain and proud,", "His boasts of fame rang loudly through the crowd."]}, {"id": "B5.10.16", "lines": ["Juya his name, who sought the battle’s flame,", "And swung the heavy gorz wherever he came."]}, {"id": "B5.10.17", "lines": ["With gorz in hand and armor shining bright,", "He strode before the ranks to claim the fight."]}, {"id": "B5.10.18", "lines": ["By his king’s command he crossed the field,", "And came before the Shah with gorz and shield."]}, {"id": "B5.10.19", "lines": ["His armor blazed; his sword burned fierce below,", "Till earth itself seemed scorched beneath its glow."]}, {"id": "B5.10.20", "lines": ["He shouted till the hills and plains replied:", "“Let him who dares now meet me side by side!”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.21", "lines": ["“Who dares come forth,” he roared, “and face my thrust?", "Who here can raise from water clouds of dust?”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.22", "lines": ["No champion came; the chiefs stood still and mute,", "As though their hearts had withered at the root."]}, {"id": "B5.10.23", "lines": ["Then Kavus spoke: “Why stand you thus in dread?", "Why hangs this shadow dark above your head?”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.24", "lines": ["No man replied; fear settled on the field,", "As though their strength before his boast must yield."]}, {"id": "B5.10.25", "lines": ["Then Rostam seized the reins and raised his spear,", "And spoke: “Permit me, Shah, to face him here.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.26", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “The task is yours to claim,", "For none else seeks the hazard or the fame."]}, {"id": "B5.10.27", "lines": ["Go forth, and may the Maker guide your hand,", "And make all Divs your quarry where they stand.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.28", "lines": ["Then Rostam urged brave Rakhsh into the plain,", "And grasped his spear with might no foe could chain."]}, {"id": "B5.10.29", "lines": ["He came like some wild elephant in wrath,", "And churned the dust that darkened all his path."]}, {"id": "B5.10.30", "lines": ["Beneath him, leopard-like, Rakhsh stretched his stride,", "While in his hand a dragon seemed to ride."]}, {"id": "B5.10.31", "lines": ["He wheeled and roared, and shook the battlefield,", "As though the world itself must break or yield."]}, {"id": "B5.10.32", "lines": ["“O wretch! Your name is struck from champions’ fame;", "Today your boast shall perish with your name."]}, {"id": "B5.10.33", "lines": ["This is no hour for peace or idle breath;", "Your mother shall lament your coming death.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.34", "lines": ["The foe replied: “My khanjar reaps the head;", "Before this field is done, you will lie dead."]}, {"id": "B5.10.35", "lines": ["Your mother’s liver soon shall burn with pain,", "Her tears shall wash your helm and shattered chain.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.36", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, he raised his battle cry,", "And charged as though a mountain shook the sky."]}, {"id": "B5.10.37", "lines": ["His foe drew back, unwilling now to stand,", "And wheeled aside in fear of Rostam’s hand."]}, {"id": "B5.10.38", "lines": ["But swift as dust, with spearpoint fixed and true,", "He struck the girdle clean and split it through."]}, {"id": "B5.10.39", "lines": ["The spear tore through jowshan and straps apart,", "And hurled him reeling, stunned in strength and heart."]}, {"id": "B5.10.40", "lines": ["Unseated, flung aloft in shattered gear,", "Like some spitted bird he hung upon the spear."]}, {"id": "B5.10.41", "lines": ["He plunged into a ravine, bloodied, torn,", "His jowshan split, from breast and shoulder shorn."]}, {"id": "B5.10.42", "lines": ["Blood filled his mouth; his strength and senses fled,", "And dust and stone received him with the dead."]}, {"id": "B5.10.43", "lines": ["The warriors of the foe beheld in dread,", "Their faces blanched, their courage all but shed."]}, {"id": "B5.10.44", "lines": ["A murmur spread across the shaken field,", "And hearts that burned for war began to yield."]}, {"id": "B5.10.45", "lines": ["Their king cried out: “Lift up your heads and stand!", "Fight like the leopards native to this land!”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.46", "lines": ["They heard his call and rallied to his side,", "A countless tide advancing fierce and wide."]}, {"id": "B5.10.47", "lines": ["The Shah perceived and ordered ranks to close,", "And moved at once to meet the rising foes."]}, {"id": "B5.10.48", "lines": ["Both armies drew the sword and rushed to meet,", "Tabira, karnay driving iron feet."]}, {"id": "B5.10.49", "lines": ["The sky grew black; earth darkened indigo,", "As gorz flashed bright and blades struck blow on blow."]}, {"id": "B5.10.50", "lines": ["Like lightning bursting from a clouded height,", "The steel flared wild across the field of fight."]}, {"id": "B5.10.51", "lines": ["Red, black, and violet stained the battle sky,", "Where spears and many-colored banners fly."]}, {"id": "B5.10.52", "lines": ["The air grew thick with banners, dust, and spears,", "With cries like iron ringing in their ears."]}, {"id": "B5.10.53", "lines": ["Tabiras roared, the chargers screamed in strain,", "And shook the hills like thunder loosed in rain."]}, {"id": "B5.10.54", "lines": ["No eye had seen such battle joined before,", "The iron crash and clang, the ceaseless roar."]}, {"id": "B5.10.55", "lines": ["The plain became a sea where slaughter spread,", "And iron surged among the heaped-up dead."]}, {"id": "B5.10.56", "lines": ["The earth beneath them turned to pitch-black tide,", "Its waves were sword and gorz on every side."]}, {"id": "B5.10.57", "lines": ["Swift steeds like ships across that torrent tore,", "Then reeled and fell among the slain and gore."]}, {"id": "B5.10.58", "lines": ["The gorz on helmets crashed with blow on blow,", "Like autumn winds that strip the willows low."]}, {"id": "B5.10.59", "lines": ["Gorz, sword, and arrow swept the crowded flood,", "The plain became a pool of warriors’ blood."]}, {"id": "B5.10.60", "lines": ["Thus for a week those glory-hungry bands,", "Contended fiercely over blood-soaked lands."]}, {"id": "B5.10.61", "lines": ["Upon the eighth day Kavus ceased the fray,", "And laid his Kayanian crown aside to pray."]}, {"id": "B5.10.62", "lines": ["Before the Judge of truth the monarch bowed,", "And cast aside the pride that kingship allowed."]}, {"id": "B5.10.63", "lines": ["He pressed his face upon the earth and cried:", "“O Judge of truth, whose word is not denied,"]}, {"id": "B5.10.64", "lines": ["These fearless male Divs rise against my crown;", "By Your just power, O Maker, strike them down."]}, {"id": "B5.10.65", "lines": ["Grant victory and farr through Your own grace,", "And set my royal throne again in place.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.66", "lines": ["He donned his helm and joined his warriors then,", "Renewed in will, and led again his men."]}, {"id": "B5.10.67", "lines": ["A shout arose, the karnays split the sky,", "And all his forces thundered with the cry."]}, {"id": "B5.10.68", "lines": ["At karnay’s cry, like elephant Rostam rose,", "And drove brave Rakhsh against the waiting foes."]}, {"id": "B5.10.69", "lines": ["He bade that Tus bring elephants in train,", "Tabiras at the rear upon the plain."]}, {"id": "B5.10.70", "lines": ["With Gudarz came brave Zangeh to the fray,", "And Gorgin, Rohham eager for the day."]}, {"id": "B5.10.71", "lines": ["Guraza charged, a boar, his banner high;", "Eight baz in height, it towered to the sky."]}, {"id": "B5.10.72", "lines": ["With Farhad, Kharrad, Barzin pressing near,", "They surged once more with vengeance sharp and clear."]}, {"id": "B5.10.73", "lines": ["First Rostam drove upon the center line,", "And drenched the ground in blood like bursting wine."]}, {"id": "B5.10.74", "lines": ["Upon the right Gudarz, Keshvad’s son, pressed,", "Tabiras, banners, battle in his breast."]}, {"id": "B5.10.75", "lines": ["While Giv ranged wide from right to left in might,", "A wolf among the flocks throughout the fight."]}, {"id": "B5.10.76", "lines": ["From dawn until the sun grew dark with stain,", "Blood flowed like water through the battle plain."]}, {"id": "B5.10.77", "lines": ["All shame and custom vanished from each face;", "Affection fled and mercy left no trace."]}, {"id": "B5.10.78", "lines": ["The grass ran slick with brains beneath the slain,", "While gorz fell like heaven’s iron rain."]}, {"id": "B5.10.79", "lines": ["Horns and tabiras thundered through the air;", "The sun withdrew behind an ebony glare."]}, {"id": "B5.10.80", "lines": ["Then Rostam drove toward Mazandaran’s king,", "With chosen warriors tightening the ring."]}, {"id": "B5.10.81", "lines": ["He held his ground and would not move a pace,", "But stood steadfast before the battle’s face."]}, {"id": "B5.10.82", "lines": ["The Divs and elephants opposed his way;", "He called on God and held them all at bay."]}, {"id": "B5.10.83", "lines": ["His spear-bearer passed the tempered spear;", "Then naked blades flashed bright as ranks drew near."]}, {"id": "B5.10.84", "lines": ["He raised his gorz and gave a lion’s roar,", "Its thunder rolled from mountainside to shore."]}, {"id": "B5.10.85", "lines": ["No Div kept life, no elephant kept wit,", "So hard the hero’s roaring fury hit."]}, {"id": "B5.10.86", "lines": ["Severed elephant trunks lay thick around,", "And corpses stretched for many a mil of ground."]}, {"id": "B5.10.87", "lines": ["Then Rostam took his spear and held it low,", "And drove straight toward the Mazandaran foe."]}, {"id": "B5.10.88", "lines": ["Like thunder both rushed roaring to the fray,", "The sorcerer-king and Rostam closed that day."]}, {"id": "B5.10.89", "lines": ["The king beheld the spearhead drawing near;", "His rage and courage failed and turned to fear."]}, {"id": "B5.10.90", "lines": ["Then vengeance set the hero’s heart aflame,", "He roared like lion as the spearpoint came."]}, {"id": "B5.10.91", "lines": ["Rostam struck the girdle with his spear;", "Through jowshan, belt, the tempered point drove clear."]}, {"id": "B5.10.92", "lines": ["At once by sorcery his body changed;", "A mass of mountain-stone before them ranged."]}, {"id": "B5.10.93", "lines": ["Iran’s warriors stared; Rostam stood amazed,", "And at the sudden stone in wonder gazed."]}, {"id": "B5.10.94", "lines": ["His spear-bearer lifted up the shaft,", "While Rostam stared in wonder at the craft."]}, {"id": "B5.10.95", "lines": ["Then Kavus came with elephants in train,", "Tabiras, banners rolling through the plain."]}, {"id": "B5.10.96", "lines": ["He asked, “Why linger here, O champion, still?", "What holds you from the battle and your will?”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.97", "lines": ["Said Rostam, “Fortune favored me in fight;", "The fire of victory rose before my sight."]}, {"id": "B5.10.98", "lines": ["He saw my water-tempered spear draw near,", "Its tempered point before him bright and clear."]}, {"id": "B5.10.99", "lines": ["I gave brave Rakhsh the rein and struck his waist;", "I thought to see him from his seat displaced."]}, {"id": "B5.10.100", "lines": ["Instead he turned to stone before us all;", "Now bear him to the camp at Kavus’s call.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.101", "lines": ["The strongest warriors strained with hand and knee;", "The stone stayed rooted where it seemed to be."]}, {"id": "B5.10.102", "lines": ["Then Rostam laughed; he needed no such test;", "He spread his arms and pressed it to his chest."]}, {"id": "B5.10.103", "lines": ["He raised the massive stone without a groan;", "The army marveled at his strength alone."]}, {"id": "B5.10.104", "lines": ["On foot he crossed seven mountains with the stone,", "While all behind him roared at strength thus shown."]}, {"id": "B5.10.105", "lines": ["They praised the Maker, shouting at the sight,", "And scattered gold and jewels for his might."]}, {"id": "B5.10.106", "lines": ["He bore it to the royal tenting-ground,", "And set it down while warriors gathered round."]}, {"id": "B5.10.107", "lines": ["“Reveal yourself and end this magic art,", "Or gorz and axe will hew the stone apart.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.108", "lines": ["Like one dark cloud the sorcerer arose,", "With steel on head, jowshan from neck to toes."]}, {"id": "B5.10.109", "lines": ["Then Rostam took his hand and laughed aloud,", "And led him toward the Shah before the crowd."]}, {"id": "B5.10.110", "lines": ["“I brought this mountain captive to your hand;", "The axe persuaded him to leave his stand.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.111", "lines": ["Kavus looked hard upon the captive’s face,", "And judged him unfit for the royal place."]}, {"id": "B5.10.112", "lines": ["Misshapen-faced, he towered above them all,", "Boar-necked and broad of shoulder, huge and tall."]}, {"id": "B5.10.113", "lines": ["He called to mind what he had suffered long,", "And all his buried anger surged up strong."]}, {"id": "B5.10.114", "lines": ["He bade the headsman ready for the deed,", "To cut the captive down with ruthless speed."]}, {"id": "B5.10.115", "lines": ["Then Rostam seized his beard with iron hand,", "And dragged him from the Shah at his command."]}, {"id": "B5.10.116", "lines": ["At Kavus’s command they struck him down,", "And cut apart the wearer of the crown."]}, {"id": "B5.10.117", "lines": ["He sent his men at once across the plain,", "To gather all the treasure that remained."]}, {"id": "B5.10.118", "lines": ["Rich spoils were gathered from the broken line,", "Gold, gems, and treasures shaped in rare design."]}, {"id": "B5.10.119", "lines": ["The tents were stripped; men heaped the wealth they bore,", "And joy returned where grief had ruled before."]}, {"id": "B5.10.120", "lines": ["Thrones, crowns and girdles, horses, arms arrayed,", "With pearls and jewels from the diadems displayed."]}, {"id": "B5.10.121", "lines": ["The spoils rose mountain-high across the ground;", "The Shah gave most to those whose toil was crowned."]}, {"id": "B5.10.122", "lines": ["The hostile Divs who still would not obey", "Were put to death beside the public way."]}, {"id": "B5.10.123", "lines": ["“O just and provident Judge,” the monarch cried,", "“Through You my every need is now supplied."]}, {"id": "B5.10.124", "lines": ["You gave me power to break the sorcerers’ might,", "And made my aging fortune young and bright.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.125", "lines": ["For seven days the Shah withdrew to pray,", "And on his face before the Just One lay."]}, {"id": "B5.10.126", "lines": ["Then every treasury stood open wide,", "And gifts flowed freely to the poor outside."]}, {"id": "B5.10.127", "lines": ["Another week he spent in gifts and care,", "Till those in need had each received a share."]}, {"id": "B5.10.128", "lines": ["The third week saw the troubled realm made right;", "Then wine and jeweled cups restored delight."]}, {"id": "B5.10.129", "lines": ["For seven days the wine-cup passed in cheer,", "And Mazandaran knew no grief or fear."]}, {"id": "B5.10.130", "lines": ["When Kavus once again resumed his seat,", "He praised the champion for his noble feat."]}, {"id": "B5.10.131", "lines": ["Then Kavus hailed the hero’s deathless fame,", "For crushing him and raising Iran’s name."]}, {"id": "B5.10.132", "lines": ["“Through you I hold the throne I lost in war;", "May heart and faith shine brighter than before.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.133", "lines": ["Then Rostam brought Ulad before the throne,", "Whose guidance through the wilds was clearly shown."]}, {"id": "B5.10.134", "lines": ["He said: “This man has served with loyal hand;", "Now grant the just reward his deeds demand."]}, {"id": "B5.10.135", "lines": ["Each kind of man may serve some needed end;", "A wise man values every useful friend."]}, {"id": "B5.10.136", "lines": ["Through Ulad’s guidance, victory was won;", "He showed the road by which these deeds were done."]}, {"id": "B5.10.137", "lines": ["I pledged him Mazandaran as his prize;", "I gave my word, and truth must bind the wise."]}, {"id": "B5.10.138", "lines": ["First grant a robe of honor from your hand,", "Then seal a covenant for all the land."]}, {"id": "B5.10.139", "lines": ["While Ulad lives, let every noble heed", "His rule, and serve him faithfully in deed.”"]}, {"id": "B5.10.140", "lines": ["The Shah set Mazandaran’s crown upon his head,", "And gave the realm to Ulad as was said."]}, {"id": "B5.10.141", "lines": ["He called Mazandaran’s nobles to the hall,", "And spoke of Ulad’s right before them all."]}, {"id": "B5.10.142", "lines": ["They heard the Shah and pledged their service true,", "To serve Ulad in all he bade them do."]}, {"id": "B5.10.143", "lines": ["Then Kavus turned from Mazandaran’s plain,", "And set his course toward Pars with all his train."]}, {"id": "B5.11.1", "lines": ["The army’s dust concealed the world from sight,", "As Kay Kavus returned in royal might."]}, {"id": "B5.11.2", "lines": ["Such clamor rose as high as heaven’s dome,", "While all the people hailed the monarch home."]}, {"id": "B5.11.3", "lines": ["With wine and rud and musicians in array,", "They filled the land with song throughout the day."]}, {"id": "B5.11.4", "lines": ["The world grew young beneath the new Shah’s light,", "A newborn moon made all Iran grow bright."]}, {"id": "B5.11.5", "lines": ["Victorious, he took the royal seat,", "Unlocked old hoards and spread their wealth complete."]}, {"id": "B5.11.6", "lines": ["Within the divan he called those charged to pay,", "And bade them give the dinars out that day."]}, {"id": "B5.11.7", "lines": ["Before great Rostam’s gate the shouting swelled,", "As captains came, their ranks in honor held."]}, {"id": "B5.11.8", "lines": ["They stood rejoicing in their monarch’s grace,", "Exulting in the radiance of his face."]}, {"id": "B5.11.9", "lines": ["Then matchless Rostam, helmet on his head,", "Sat near the Shah where royal splendor spread."]}, {"id": "B5.11.10", "lines": ["He bowed and asked the Shah for leave to ride", "To Zal, whose wisdom long had been his guide."]}, {"id": "B5.11.11", "lines": ["The Shah prepared a khilat rich and bright,", "And blessed the champion for his deeds of might."]}, {"id": "B5.11.12", "lines": ["A throne with turquoise rams’ heads, wondrous sight,", "A royal crown ablaze with jeweled light."]}, {"id": "B5.11.13", "lines": ["A gold-brocade robe fit for royal fame,", "A steed and torque befitting Rostam’s name."]}, {"id": "B5.11.14", "lines": ["A hundred moon-faced youths with belts of gold,", "A hundred musk-haired maidens to behold."]}, {"id": "B5.11.15", "lines": ["A hundred steeds, gold and silver arrayed,", "A hundred black-haired mules, gold bridles laid."]}, {"id": "B5.11.16", "lines": ["With rich brocades from Rum and Chin displayed,", "And Pahlav cloth in splendid colors made,"]}, {"id": "B5.11.17", "lines": ["A hundred purses, dinars shining white,", "With every hue and fragrance for delight."]}, {"id": "B5.11.18", "lines": ["A ruby cup with purest musk was sent,", "A turquoise cup breathed rosewater’s scent."]}, {"id": "B5.11.19", "lines": ["A charter drawn on silk of finest thread,", "With musk, oud, ambergris, and perfume spread."]}, {"id": "B5.11.20", "lines": ["To Rostam, famed throughout the world for might,", "He granted all Nimruz as royal right,"]}, {"id": "B5.11.21", "lines": ["That after Kavus none should take that throne,", "For Nimruz was assigned him as his own."]}, {"id": "B5.11.22", "lines": ["He blessed him thus: “May none behold the light", "Of sun or moon without you in their sight."]}, {"id": "B5.11.23", "lines": ["May noble hearts be ever drawn to you,", "And modesty and reverence dwell there too.”"]}, {"id": "B5.11.24", "lines": ["Then Rostam sprang, the royal throne he kissed,", "And bound his gear, his purpose firm and fixed."]}, {"id": "B5.11.25", "lines": ["Tabira sounded through the city’s ways,", "And joy rose everywhere in shouts of praise."]}, {"id": "B5.11.26", "lines": ["The city shone; daray, koust, karnay rang,", "And from the crowded streets the echoes sprang."]}, {"id": "B5.11.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam rode toward Zal, his leave complete,", "While Kavus ruled by law from royal seat."]}, {"id": "B5.11.28", "lines": ["The Shah divided lands among the great,", "And portioned every province of the state."]}, {"id": "B5.11.29", "lines": ["He made brave Tus the sepahbod of his force,", "To turn all harm from Iran at its source."]}, {"id": "B5.11.30", "lines": ["He gave Gudarz Isfahan as his seat,", "With full command and governance complete."]}, {"id": "B5.11.31", "lines": ["Then Kavus turned to revelry and wine,", "His sovereign might throughout the world would shine."]}, {"id": "B5.11.32", "lines": ["He cut grief’s neck with justice for his blade,", "Nor thought of death within his heart was laid."]}, {"id": "B5.11.33", "lines": ["The earth grew green, a garden richly dressed,", "Like Iram’s fields in bloom and beauty blessed."]}, {"id": "B5.11.34", "lines": ["And rich through justice, safe beneath his reign,", "The hand of Ahriman was bound in chain."]}, {"id": "B5.11.35", "lines": ["Then joyful tidings spread through every zone:", "“Kavus has seized Mazandaran’s crown and throne!”"]}, {"id": "B5.11.36", "lines": ["All marveled at the greatness he had gained,", "At such a height of glory now attained."]}, {"id": "B5.11.37", "lines": ["The loyal came with gifts and offerings great,", "And formed in ordered ranks before the gate."]}, {"id": "B5.11.38", "lines": ["The world like Paradise was decked and dressed,", "With wealth and justice everywhere possessed."]}, {"id": "B5.11.39", "lines": ["Mazandaran’s war has now been fully told;", "Now hear how Hamavaran’s war took hold."]}]}, {"id": "B6", "title": "The Folly of Kay Kavus", "summary": "10 sections · 531 couplets", "path": "/poem/b6/", "couplets": [{"id": "B6.1.1", "lines": ["So speaks the ancient tale in measured rhyme,", "Of Kavus crowned in triumph at his prime."]}, {"id": "B6.1.2", "lines": ["Then Kavus, flushed with triumph, toured his realm,", "To view his empire, master at the helm."]}, {"id": "B6.1.3", "lines": ["From Iran forth to Turan did he ride,", "And Chin received him in its eastern pride."]}, {"id": "B6.1.4", "lines": ["To Makran then he led his royal train,", "And entered with his court across the plain."]}, {"id": "B6.1.5", "lines": ["Makran was decked like bride in bright array,", "With ney, buq, and koust to mark the day."]}, {"id": "B6.1.6", "lines": ["The chiefs all rendered tribute at his call;", "The ox would never test the lion at all."]}, {"id": "B6.1.7", "lines": ["To Barbar next he led his splendid train,", "With crown and diadem across the plain."]}, {"id": "B6.1.8", "lines": ["The king of Barbar armed himself for war,", "And darkened what had shone so bright before."]}, {"id": "B6.1.9", "lines": ["His warriors came and broke the feast below,", "And battle’s shadow fell on friend and foe."]}, {"id": "B6.1.10", "lines": ["No hand nor rein was visible in sight;", "The mountain vanished in the dust of fight."]}, {"id": "B6.1.11", "lines": ["The armies surged like waves upon the sea,", "Rank following rank in fierce hostility."]}, {"id": "B6.1.12", "lines": ["Then Gudarz raised his heavy gorz on high,", "And drove against the center with a cry."]}, {"id": "B6.1.13", "lines": ["A thousand warriors pressed toward the fore,", "With spear and shaft that pierced through shield and core."]}, {"id": "B6.1.14", "lines": ["He broke the enemy’s embattled line,", "And drove their warriors back in swift decline."]}, {"id": "B6.1.15", "lines": ["Behind him came the Shah with royal might,", "And swept into the center of the fight."]}, {"id": "B6.1.16", "lines": ["No Barbar rider lived; they all lay dead,", "No weary spearman raised again his head."]}, {"id": "B6.1.17", "lines": ["The city’s elders saw the battle turn,", "And came with wounded hearts and grief to burn."]}, {"id": "B6.1.18", "lines": ["“We are your slaves,” they said. “We bow to you;", "Accept our vows and tribute, firm and true."]}, {"id": "B6.1.19", "lines": ["With gold and jewels now we serve the king;", "No silver gift beside these will we bring.”"]}, {"id": "B6.1.20", "lines": ["Kavus received them with a gracious air,", "And set new laws to govern just and fair."]}, {"id": "B6.1.21", "lines": ["Sanj, daray, and karnay sounded clear,", "Their brazen voices loud for all to hear."]}, {"id": "B6.1.22", "lines": ["He turned his march toward Mount Kaf in the west,", "Where all the people came at his behest."]}, {"id": "B6.1.23", "lines": ["They came with gifts and offered fealty,", "The nobles bowed in solemn loyalty."]}, {"id": "B6.1.24", "lines": ["They pledged rich tribute to the royal state,", "And sought his favor at the ruler’s gate."]}, {"id": "B6.1.25", "lines": ["When all obeyed his will without dispute,", "He spared their lands and ended the pursuit."]}, {"id": "B6.1.26", "lines": ["To Zabul then he rode with all his throng,", "As Rostam’s guest with feast and hunt and song."]}, {"id": "B6.1.27", "lines": ["A month with rud and wine they passed in play,", "And loosed the hawk and cheetah on their prey."]}, {"id": "B6.1.28", "lines": ["Yet soon a thorn arose beside the flowers,", "For fate grants none serene and lasting hours."]}, {"id": "B6.1.29", "lines": ["Who climbs to heights must face descent one day;", "No man can rise and never fall away."]}, {"id": "B6.1.30", "lines": ["The Arabs rose when all seemed firm and still,", "A lord ambitious, bent to work his will."]}, {"id": "B6.1.31", "lines": ["In Mesr and Sham he raised his standard high,", "And stirred the people with rebellion’s cry."]}, {"id": "B6.1.32", "lines": ["They turned from Kavus and denied his reign,", "And let contempt and doubt within remain."]}, {"id": "B6.1.33", "lines": ["A wealthy high-born claimant rose to fame,", "And sought to share the kingship and its name."]}, {"id": "B6.1.34", "lines": ["When Kavus heard, he bade tabiras sound,", "And marched from Nimruz toward the battleground."]}, {"id": "B6.1.35", "lines": ["With eager heart he led the marching force,", "Each warrior’s name marked shields along the course."]}, {"id": "B6.1.36", "lines": ["Their swords within the scabbards leaped and rang,", "As though they thirsted for the coming clang."]}, {"id": "B6.1.37", "lines": ["He led the army from the plain to sea,", "Where hostile ranks had gathered openly."]}, {"id": "B6.1.38", "lines": ["With ships and skiffs he covered all the tide,", "A countless fleet spread outward far and wide."]}, {"id": "B6.1.39", "lines": ["He launched the fleet upon the swelling main,", "Till ship and skiff obscured the watery plain."]}, {"id": "B6.1.40", "lines": ["A thousand farsangs cleaved through ocean spray,", "To win again what once had slipped away."]}, {"id": "B6.1.41", "lines": ["Where three great realms together touched their bounds,", "He set his army on contested grounds."]}, {"id": "B6.1.42", "lines": ["On left was Mesr, Barbar on the right,", "Before him Hamavaran armed for fight."]}, {"id": "B6.1.43", "lines": ["Each kingdom raised a force of daunting size,", "And news of Kavus reached their watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "B6.1.44", "lines": ["They said: “The Shah has crossed the sea in force,”", "And joined their troops to halt his onward course."]}, {"id": "B6.1.45", "lines": ["In Barbar there the two great armies met,", "Their ranks in iron on the plain were set."]}, {"id": "B6.1.46", "lines": ["So vast the army under trampling feet,", "Sea, mountain, plain seemed worn beneath the beat."]}, {"id": "B6.1.47", "lines": ["No savage lion found a path ahead,", "No raging elephant could freely tread."]}, {"id": "B6.1.48", "lines": ["The leopard searched the rock, the fish the sea,", "The eagle scanned the air for passage free."]}, {"id": "B6.1.49", "lines": ["No beast or game could find an open way;", "All roads were choked beneath the vast array."]}, {"id": "B6.1.50", "lines": ["When Kavus landed with his armored band,", "No hill nor plain was visible in the land."]}, {"id": "B6.1.51", "lines": ["The world appeared in armor, head to head,", "And spearpoints shone like stars the heavens spread."]}, {"id": "B6.1.52", "lines": ["The golden helms and shields that caught the light,", "Made earth itself seem molten gold and bright."]}, {"id": "B6.1.53", "lines": ["The axes gleamed at every warrior’s side,", "Like suns that flashed across the battle-tide."]}, {"id": "B6.1.54", "lines": ["The blades of Hind seemed raining lives below,", "While earth like moving heaven seemed to flow."]}, {"id": "B6.1.55", "lines": ["The air wore sandalwood, a tawny shade,", "While ebony across the earth was laid."]}, {"id": "B6.1.56", "lines": ["The mountains shook beneath the horn’s great cry,", "The earth bent low as pounding hooves went by."]}, {"id": "B6.1.57", "lines": ["At tabira’s roar all Barbar’s armies rang,", "Till every span became a war-camp’s clang."]}, {"id": "B6.1.58", "lines": ["Then Bahram, Tus, and Gorgin crossed the plain,", "And joined the troops with all their martial train."]}, {"id": "B6.1.59", "lines": ["With Gudarz, Giv and Shidush formed array,", "And Farhad cast restraint and fear away."]}, {"id": "B6.1.60", "lines": ["The spearpoints drank the poison, dark and keen,", "And every thrust was armed with death unseen."]}, {"id": "B6.1.61", "lines": ["They bent low on the saddle in their course,", "While axes chopped through armor, man, and horse."]}, {"id": "B6.1.62", "lines": ["When Kavus reached the center of the fight,", "Army met army under blades of light."]}, {"id": "B6.1.63", "lines": ["Their eyes grew dim as cinnabar rained red,", "On lapis fields where blood and dust were spread."]}, {"id": "B6.1.64", "lines": ["Like hail the arrows fell with deadly tone,", "And planted crimson tulips in the stone."]}, {"id": "B6.1.65", "lines": ["From warriors’ eyes there spread the battle’s fire,", "And earth became a sea of crimson mire."]}, {"id": "B6.1.66", "lines": ["Iran’s fierce charge broke every allied line,", "Till none could tell its order or design."]}, {"id": "B6.1.67", "lines": ["The king of Hamavaran first gave way,", "And sought for peace to end the fatal day."]}, {"id": "B6.1.68", "lines": ["He flung away his sword and gorz, and faced", "The Shah, and begged protection, all abased."]}, {"id": "B6.1.69", "lines": ["He offered tribute if his land were spared,", "And pledged submission openly declared."]}, {"id": "B6.1.70", "lines": ["With horses, arms, with treasure, crown and throne,", "He begged to keep the kingdom as his own."]}, {"id": "B6.1.71", "lines": ["Kavus replied: “You stand beneath my care;", "You seek no crown or throne that I now bear.”"]}, {"id": "B6.1.72", "lines": ["Content, the Shah withdrew from field of war;", "An envoy came from Hamavaran’s shore."]}, {"id": "B6.1.73", "lines": ["He brought rich treasure, heavy arms of steel,", "Their weight proclaimed the offered tribute real."]}, {"id": "B6.1.74", "lines": ["With emeralds and jewels piled in mound,", "He laid the tribute on the royal ground."]}, {"id": "B6.1.75", "lines": ["“The high and low of Hamavaran stand", "As servants now beneath your high command."]}, {"id": "B6.1.76", "lines": ["May victory attend your crown each year,", "And foes be overthrown in shame and fear.”"]}, {"id": "B6.1.77", "lines": ["He kissed the earth, then came where Tus was lord,", "And there without delay the tribute poured."]}, {"id": "B6.1.78", "lines": ["Then Tus received the gold and jewels bright,", "And shared them, less or more, by rank and right."]}, {"id": "B6.2.1", "lines": ["Then one spoke thus to Kavus: “In that land,", "A king has one whose charms none can withstand."]}, {"id": "B6.2.2", "lines": ["A daughter tall as cypress, straight and rare,", "With musk-crowned brow and perfumed, coiling hair."]}, {"id": "B6.2.3", "lines": ["Her tresses fall like kamands deftly thrown,", "Her tongue a khanjar, keen as tempered stone."]}, {"id": "B6.2.4", "lines": ["Her lips are sweet as sugar newly pressed,", "A springtime sun in Paradise confessed."]}, {"id": "B6.2.5", "lines": ["None but a Shah should claim so fair a bride,", "No lesser man should take her to his side."]}, {"id": "B6.2.6", "lines": ["A moon like this should grace a monarch’s name,", "And fill his royal house with light and fame.”"]}, {"id": "B6.2.7", "lines": ["His heart was stirred; he answered, pleased and bright,", "“I shall ask her father for this match outright."]}, {"id": "B6.2.8", "lines": ["Within my golden chamber she shall dwell,", "Where beauty such as hers would grace it well.”"]}, {"id": "B6.2.9", "lines": ["He chose a noble envoy, wise and grave,", "A man whose wit could guide, whose speech could save."]}, {"id": "B6.2.10", "lines": ["He bade him journey forth to that domain,", "And win the king with tact both mild and plain."]}, {"id": "B6.2.11", "lines": ["“Incline his heart,” he said, “with honeyed phrase,", "And turn his thoughts through artful, tempered praise."]}, {"id": "B6.2.12", "lines": ["Say thus to him: ‘The wisest chiefs I see,", "Seek bonds of kinship and alliance with me."]}, {"id": "B6.2.13", "lines": ["The sun itself takes brilliance from my crown;", "And earth beneath my ivory throne lies down."]}, {"id": "B6.2.14", "lines": ["Who finds no shelter in my royal shade", "Will lose the standing fortune once had made."]}, {"id": "B6.2.15", "lines": ["I seek alliance, peace between us sealed,", "That strife between our realms be wholly healed."]}, {"id": "B6.2.16", "lines": ["Behind the curtain dwells your daughter bright,", "Whose worth befits a monarch’s royal height."]}, {"id": "B6.2.17", "lines": ["Pure in her face and pure in form and frame,", "Each city and assembly praised her name."]}, {"id": "B6.2.18", "lines": ["Accept this bond; let royal kinship stand,", "And give Kay Qobad’s son your daughter’s hand.’”"]}, {"id": "B6.2.19", "lines": ["The envoy went with ready tongue and mind,", "His speech refined, his bearing firm yet kind."]}, {"id": "B6.2.20", "lines": ["He reached the king of Hamavaran’s throne,", "And shaped his words in measured, courtly tone."]}, {"id": "B6.2.21", "lines": ["He gave Kavus’s greeting, clear and true,", "Then set the royal purpose forth in view."]}, {"id": "B6.2.22", "lines": ["The king was troubled deep within his breast,", "And thus within his heart he weighed the test:"]}, {"id": "B6.2.23", "lines": ["“Though he may rule the world from sea to sea,", "I must surrender what is dear to me."]}, {"id": "B6.2.24", "lines": ["I have but one fair child, my dearest part,", "More dear to me than breath or beating heart."]}, {"id": "B6.2.25", "lines": ["If I refuse, I cannot face his might,", "His strength exceeds all I could bring to fight."]}, {"id": "B6.2.26", "lines": ["I must conceal my grief and mask my pain,", "And yield, though sorrow in my heart remain.”"]}, {"id": "B6.2.27", "lines": ["He answered then: “This wish can have no end;", "No limit bounds the message you now send."]}, {"id": "B6.2.28", "lines": ["Two precious things he seeks above all prize:", "My wealth, my child, the light before my eyes."]}, {"id": "B6.2.29", "lines": ["My wealth sustains me, yet my child is more,", "The dearest treasure in my heart’s own store."]}, {"id": "B6.2.30", "lines": ["If Iran’s Shah should take my child away,", "What heart or life remains to me that day?"]}, {"id": "B6.2.31", "lines": ["Yet I submit and grant what he has sought,", "Though grief destroys the peace that joy once brought.”"]}, {"id": "B6.2.32", "lines": ["He summoned fair Sudabeh to his side,", "And spoke of Kavus with a troubled pride:"]}, {"id": "B6.2.33", "lines": ["“An envoy comes from that exalted throne,", "Whose lord lacks nothing power can make his own."]}, {"id": "B6.2.34", "lines": ["A smooth-tongued envoy bears a letter here,", "From Kavus, written so his will is clear."]}, {"id": "B6.2.35", "lines": ["He seeks to rob my heart of all repose,", "Though I would rather flee such heavy woes."]}, {"id": "B6.2.36", "lines": ["What say you? Speak your settled will to me,", "And choose with wisdom what your course shall be.”"]}, {"id": "B6.2.37", "lines": ["She answered: “There is no other road to choose;", "Why grieve for what no counsel can refuse?"]}, {"id": "B6.2.38", "lines": ["What better comforter could now be found", "Than one whose world-wide kingship knows no bound?"]}, {"id": "B6.2.39", "lines": ["This is no grief; call it a glorious gain.”", "The king perceived she bore no hidden pain."]}, {"id": "B6.2.40", "lines": ["He called the envoy to an honored chair;", "By rite and faith he pledged his daughter fair."]}, {"id": "B6.2.41", "lines": ["A week they labored, sorrow they must bear,", "Preparing all with splendor rich and rare."]}, {"id": "B6.2.42", "lines": ["They brought forth forty litters in a line,", "With slaves three hundred set in due design."]}, {"id": "B6.2.43", "lines": ["A thousand beasts; steeds, mules, with camels too,", "Bore brocade and dinars in ordered view."]}, {"id": "B6.2.44", "lines": ["From every howdah brocade streamed in air,", "While ranked escorts stood ordered everywhere."]}, {"id": "B6.2.45", "lines": ["The New Moon rode within a litter bright,", "Her marriage gifts displayed in splendid sight."]}, {"id": "B6.2.46", "lines": ["The escort shone like Paradise in hue,", "As tulips seemed to fill the heavens’ blue."]}, {"id": "B6.2.47", "lines": ["When that fair pageant met the monarch’s gaze,", "His heart was filled with wonder and with praise."]}, {"id": "B6.2.48", "lines": ["A new moon from the howdah rose in light,", "Like some new king upon his throne made bright."]}, {"id": "B6.2.49", "lines": ["Black musk lay scattered over roses fair,", "Ambergris earrings trembled by her hair."]}, {"id": "B6.2.50", "lines": ["Two rubies shone; two languid narcissus eyes,", "Her brows like silver pens above them rise."]}, {"id": "B6.2.51", "lines": ["Kavus invoked the name of Yazdan then,", "And gazed amazed beyond the gaze of men."]}, {"id": "B6.2.52", "lines": ["He called the wise in council at his side,", "The aged chief of Mobadan to guide."]}, {"id": "B6.2.53", "lines": ["He deemed Sudabeh fit to be his wife;", "By rite and faith he joined with her for life."]}, {"id": "B6.2.54", "lines": ["“When first I saw you, I approved your grace;", "My golden chambers were your proper place.”"]}, {"id": "B6.3.1", "lines": ["The father grieved and searched for some design,", "A week passed; eighth dawn brought the plotted sign."]}, {"id": "B6.3.2", "lines": ["At dawn he sent a messenger to say:", "“Let Kavus come and grace us with his stay."]}, {"id": "B6.3.3", "lines": ["If he will be my honored guest today,", "My people shall rejoice along his way.”"]}, {"id": "B6.3.4", "lines": ["Thus did he seek to trap the royal guest,", "A cunning heart concealed within his breast."]}, {"id": "B6.3.5", "lines": ["With guile he sought to save his child and land,", "And keep the tribute from Kavus’s hand."]}, {"id": "B6.3.6", "lines": ["But fair Sudabeh saw the snare ahead,", "And warned the Shah of treachery and dread:"]}, {"id": "B6.3.7", "lines": ["“This bodes no good; you must not share his board,", "Lest treachery be planned against you, lord."]}, {"id": "B6.3.8", "lines": ["Beneath the feast they mean to seize you fast,", "And bind you without cause when trust is cast."]}, {"id": "B6.3.9", "lines": ["For my sake only is this mischief sown,", "And grief will fall upon your crown and throne.”"]}, {"id": "B6.3.10", "lines": ["He heeded not her warning or her plan,", "And held her people scarcely worth a man."]}, {"id": "B6.3.11", "lines": ["So as a guest with warriors at his side,", "He went in pomp, secure in royal pride."]}, {"id": "B6.3.12", "lines": ["At Saha stood a pleasure-city bright,", "Prepared for feast and revelry and delight."]}, {"id": "B6.3.13", "lines": ["There stood his palace, fair in ordered height,", "Adorned throughout to charm the monarch’s sight."]}, {"id": "B6.3.14", "lines": ["The city paid him homage on the way,", "And all came forth to honor him that day."]}, {"id": "B6.3.15", "lines": ["They scattered saffron, jewels along the street,", "With musk and ambergris beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "B6.3.16", "lines": ["With rud and song they wove a festive sound,", "Like warp and woof in music interwound."]}, {"id": "B6.3.17", "lines": ["The king himself, with all his nobles, came,", "On foot to greet the Shah of royal fame."]}, {"id": "B6.3.18", "lines": ["From hall to gate fell pearls and rubies bright,", "With showers of gold that flashed before his sight."]}, {"id": "B6.3.19", "lines": ["From golden trays musk, ambergris were spread,", "In fragrant showers upon the monarch’s head."]}, {"id": "B6.3.20", "lines": ["A golden throne was raised within the hall,", "And Kavus took his place before them all."]}, {"id": "B6.3.21", "lines": ["A week he reveled; all his senses drowned,", "In beauty, fragrance, color, light, and sound."]}, {"id": "B6.3.22", "lines": ["The Hamavaran king would bow, obey,", "Like some low servant in the Shah’s array."]}, {"id": "B6.3.23", "lines": ["His army stood in girded service near,", "Till trust took root and banished every fear."]}, {"id": "B6.3.24", "lines": ["But when the week was past, the plot was laid,", "The hidden snare now fully was displayed."]}, {"id": "B6.3.25", "lines": ["The troops of Barbar answered to the call,", "And joined the plot, assembled one and all."]}, {"id": "B6.3.26", "lines": ["Their coming filled the king with secret joy,", "For now he meant his cunning to employ."]}, {"id": "B6.3.27", "lines": ["At night the war-horns shattered their repose,", "While Iran’s men lay open to their foes."]}, {"id": "B6.3.28", "lines": ["The Barbar troops with Hamavaran flew,", "And seized the chiefs before a blade they drew."]}, {"id": "B6.3.29", "lines": ["Kavus, Giv, Gudarz, and Tus were chained;", "Gorgin and Zangeh of Shavaran detained."]}, {"id": "B6.3.30", "lines": ["All champions then were bound in fetters tight,", "Their farr and fortune cast from former height."]}, {"id": "B6.3.31", "lines": ["Then spoke the sage, discerning in his art,", "Of trust and where true loyalty may part:"]}, {"id": "B6.3.32", "lines": ["Trust not completely one not bound by blood,", "For friendship shifts beneath misfortune’s flood."]}, {"id": "B6.3.33", "lines": ["Even the kin who share your blood may turn,", "And let the bond of former kindness burn."]}, {"id": "B6.3.34", "lines": ["If you would test whether affection stays,", "Judge it through gain and loss in changing days."]}, {"id": "B6.3.35", "lines": ["For when your height surpasses his estate,", "Envy can thin the love that once was great."]}, {"id": "B6.3.36", "lines": ["So runs this impure world beneath the sky,", "It turns with every wind that passes by."]}, {"id": "B6.3.37", "lines": ["Thus Kavus fell through stubborn, reckless pride,", "For scorning wisdom offered at his side."]}, {"id": "B6.3.38", "lines": ["There stood a mountain rising from the deep,", "Whose summit pierced the clouds in rugged sweep."]}, {"id": "B6.3.39", "lines": ["A fortress crowned the mountain’s cloud-bound crest,", "As though beside the sky it found its rest."]}, {"id": "B6.3.40", "lines": ["There the king sent Kavus bound in chain,", "With Giv and Tus and Gudarz in his train."]}, {"id": "B6.3.41", "lines": ["The other chiefs were cast within that hold,", "Imprisoned fast behind its ramparts cold."]}, {"id": "B6.3.42", "lines": ["A thousand guards with khanjars held the height,", "Renowned men armed and watchful for the fight."]}, {"id": "B6.3.43", "lines": ["He gave the camp of Kavus up for spoil,", "Rewarding those who joined the treacherous toil."]}, {"id": "B6.3.44", "lines": ["With purses full of gold and crowns for all,", "He paid the chiefs who answered to his call."]}, {"id": "B6.3.45", "lines": ["Two veiled companies came to fetch the bride,", "A splendid litter moving at their side."]}, {"id": "B6.3.46", "lines": ["They trampled down the tents in cruel display,", "And bore her from the ruined camp away."]}, {"id": "B6.3.47", "lines": ["When she beheld them come, she cried aloud,", "And rent her robes before the watching crowd."]}, {"id": "B6.3.48", "lines": ["She tore her musk-black hair, a kamand strand,", "And clawed her cheeks with her own anguished hand."]}, {"id": "B6.3.49", "lines": ["She cried: “True men would scorn so foul a deed;", "No noble heart would praise the path you lead."]}, {"id": "B6.3.50", "lines": ["Why not confront him when the battle shone,", "Jowshan his robe, his charger for a throne?"]}, {"id": "B6.3.51", "lines": ["When Giv, Gudarz, and Tus stood in array,", "The koust resounded through the battle day,"]}, {"id": "B6.3.52", "lines": ["You made the golden throne an ambush-place,", "And stained this bond of kinship with disgrace.”"]}, {"id": "B6.3.53", "lines": ["She called them dogs as blood and tears ran red,", "Across her rose-like cheeks where grief had spread."]}, {"id": "B6.3.54", "lines": ["“I will not leave Kay Kavus in his chain,", "Though in a darkened grave he should remain."]}, {"id": "B6.3.55", "lines": ["If Kavus bears the chain, then strike me dead;", "I am innocent; take instead my head.”"]}, {"id": "B6.3.56", "lines": ["Her words were carried to her father’s ear,", "His heart ran blood, his anger fierce and clear."]}, {"id": "B6.3.57", "lines": ["He sent her to the fortress, grief-forlorn,", "Her cheeks blood-washed, her wounded liver torn."]}, {"id": "B6.3.58", "lines": ["Within the prison, faithful at his side,", "She served and shared his grief, his faithful bride."]}, {"id": "B6.4.1", "lines": ["The Shah lay bound; his army turned away,", "And home toward Iran took its weary way."]}, {"id": "B6.4.2", "lines": ["By ships and skiffs they crossed the heaving main,", "Then left the shore and pressed across the plain."]}, {"id": "B6.4.3", "lines": ["Then through Iran the bitter tidings spread:", "“The cypress of Alborz is lost,” they said."]}, {"id": "B6.4.4", "lines": ["The royal throne stood empty, stripped of light,", "Its sovereign glory vanished from men’s sight."]}, {"id": "B6.4.5", "lines": ["When men beheld the golden throne laid bare,", "Each sought the crown and strove to seize his share."]}, {"id": "B6.4.6", "lines": ["From every side came armies to the fray,", "From Turks and spear-bearing plains they made their way."]}, {"id": "B6.4.7", "lines": ["Afrasiab formed a mighty battle train,", "And cast off food and sleep to seize the plain."]}, {"id": "B6.4.8", "lines": ["From east and west rose cries of war and wrong,", "And peace gave way to battle hard and long."]}, {"id": "B6.4.9", "lines": ["Afrasiab advanced with hardened might,", "And met the Arabs in a bitter fight."]}, {"id": "B6.4.10", "lines": ["For three full months the rival armies bled,", "And heads were given up for crowns instead."]}, {"id": "B6.4.11", "lines": ["At last the Arabs broke beneath the strain,", "Their hunger to surpass had brought them pain."]}, {"id": "B6.4.12", "lines": ["Men, women, children all were seized and bound,", "As captive trains moved over Iran’s ground."]}, {"id": "B6.4.13", "lines": ["The Turkish armies spread from plain to hill,", "And seized Iran beneath their conquering will."]}, {"id": "B6.4.14", "lines": ["For Iran’s people all the world grew black,", "As fortune turned and every hope drew back."]}, {"id": "B6.4.15", "lines": ["Such is this transient dwelling: greed will breed", "Both grief and pain from every grasping deed."]}, {"id": "B6.4.16", "lines": ["At last both good and evil pass away,", "For death hunts all, and life becomes its prey."]}, {"id": "B6.4.17", "lines": ["Two portions of the people Zabul sought,", "And came to Zal with grief and terror fraught."]}, {"id": "B6.4.18", "lines": ["“Be refuge now; Kay Kavus’s farr is lost,", "For Iran stands abandoned to the cost."]}, {"id": "B6.4.19", "lines": ["Our fortune is disturbed; our hearts know fear,", "A grievous trial has risen dark and near."]}, {"id": "B6.4.20", "lines": ["Alas for Iran, plundered, stripped, forlorn,", "A den where lions and fierce pards are born."]}, {"id": "B6.4.21", "lines": ["Where warrior horsemen once possessed the land,", "And royal seats of kings in splendor spanned."]}, {"id": "B6.4.22", "lines": ["Now sharp-clawed dragon rules where kings once reigned,", "And all our days with grief and hardship stained."]}, {"id": "B6.4.23", "lines": ["Now we must seek a remedy for grief,", "And free our hearts by finding some relief."]}, {"id": "B6.4.24", "lines": ["One reared on leopard’s milk can heal our woe;", "A wise man swift to Rostam now must go.”"]}, {"id": "B6.4.25", "lines": ["A Mobad went and bore the grievous word,", "And told him all he saw, all that occurred."]}, {"id": "B6.4.26", "lines": ["Then yellow tears from Rostam’s eyes were shed,", "His heart burned fierce, his soul with anguish bled."]}, {"id": "B6.4.27", "lines": ["His heart was stirred; he armed for vengeance then,", "And swore to rise against the Turkish men."]}, {"id": "B6.4.28", "lines": ["“When word of Kay Kavus has reached my ear,", "I will sweep Iran clean of Turks and fear.”"]}, {"id": "B6.4.29", "lines": ["Then word arrived: the Shah was bound through guile,", "His army trapped by ambush all the while."]}, {"id": "B6.4.30", "lines": ["Then Rostam sent to every realm for aid,", "And summoned all whose hearts no battle swayed."]}, {"id": "B6.4.31", "lines": ["From Zabul, Kabul, Hind the forces flowed,", "Around the Pahlevan their standards showed."]}, {"id": "B6.4.32", "lines": ["The buq resounded; Hind’s daray replied,", "While boiling ranks surged over every side."]}, {"id": "B6.4.33", "lines": ["His heart burned fierce; he drove the army fast,", "Like storm-wind sweeping all before its blast."]}, {"id": "B6.5.1", "lines": ["Then Rostam sent a messenger ahead,", "To reach Kavus and speak the words he said:"]}, {"id": "B6.5.2", "lines": ["“I march upon this land with gathered force,", "To turn Hamavaran’s king from his dark course."]}, {"id": "B6.5.3", "lines": ["Take heart again and cast away your grief;", "I stand already near, your champion-chief.”"]}, {"id": "B6.5.4", "lines": ["Another envoy, known among the great,", "Rode to the king and bore the warning straight."]}, {"id": "B6.5.5", "lines": ["And Rostam wrote in language stern and plain,", "Of gorz and sword and battle’s bloody strain:"]}, {"id": "B6.5.6", "lines": ["“You trapped our Shah and broke the bond of trust;", "Such conduct is unmanly and unjust."]}, {"id": "B6.5.7", "lines": ["No warrior wins by hidden craft or guile,", "Nor masks his strength beneath a treacherous smile."]}, {"id": "B6.5.8", "lines": ["The nahang ruling in the river’s flow", "Strikes face to face and meets a forward foe."]}, {"id": "B6.5.9", "lines": ["Though rage may burn and vengeance urge the fight,", "It does not hide in ambush from the sight."]}, {"id": "B6.5.10", "lines": ["Release the Shah; escape the dragon’s snare,", "Or claw and tail shall seize you unaware."]}, {"id": "B6.5.11", "lines": ["Prepare for battle if you will not bend;", "Your neck shall measure my ranks end to end."]}, {"id": "B6.5.12", "lines": ["You know what chieftains tell of battles won:", "What I in Mazandaran have fought and done,"]}, {"id": "B6.5.13", "lines": ["How Pulad Ghandi, Bid, were struck aside,", "And how the White Div perished in his pride.”"]}, {"id": "B6.5.14", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, placed it in his hand,", "And sent him swiftly toward the hostile land."]}, {"id": "B6.5.15", "lines": ["He reached the king and spoke the message through,", "Then gave the letter bearing Rostam’s view."]}, {"id": "B6.5.16", "lines": ["The king read on, astonished at his deed,", "And saw the danger ripening from the seed."]}, {"id": "B6.5.17", "lines": ["Then darkness gathered thick before his sight,", "His head reeled hard, the world became as night."]}, {"id": "B6.5.18", "lines": ["“Let Kavus rot within his chains,” he said,", "“He shall not tread the open plain ahead."]}, {"id": "B6.5.19", "lines": ["And if you come to Barbar’s open field,", "To swords and heavy gorz you then must yield."]}, {"id": "B6.5.20", "lines": ["A chain and prison wait for you as due;", "I march with all my army against you.”"]}, {"id": "B6.5.21", "lines": ["The envoy turned and sought out Rostam’s place,", "And brought the king’s reply before his face."]}, {"id": "B6.5.22", "lines": ["“I found him senseless, hardened against right,", "A Div’s companion, sunk in evil night.”"]}, {"id": "B6.5.23", "lines": ["Such was the answer, dark with evil art;", "And Ahriman blew smoke within his heart."]}, {"id": "B6.5.24", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, his champions gathered near,", "The foremost chiefs assembling without fear."]}, {"id": "B6.5.25", "lines": ["The karnay roared; his foot found stirrup true,", "He mounted Rakhsh and toward the sea-road flew."]}, {"id": "B6.5.26", "lines": ["He chose the sea, for land would slow his course,", "And crossed with all his men in ordered force."]}, {"id": "B6.5.27", "lines": ["In ships and skiffs they moved across the tide,", "With warriors armed and stationed side by side."]}, {"id": "B6.5.28", "lines": ["Their hearts were set on plunder and on blood,", "All shame and restraint swept beneath the flood."]}, {"id": "B6.5.29", "lines": ["When word was brought to Hamavaran’s king,", "His heart sought vengeance with a bitter sting."]}, {"id": "B6.5.30", "lines": ["He raged and called his armies to prepare,", "And filled the land with tumult everywhere."]}, {"id": "B6.5.31", "lines": ["So suddenly the danger struck his breast,", "No hour remained for ease, delay, or rest."]}, {"id": "B6.5.32", "lines": ["From every frontier rose the battle cry,", "With plunder, blood, and tumult surging high."]}, {"id": "B6.5.33", "lines": ["The king rode forth; bright day was turned to night,", "So dense the ranks that swallowed up the light."]}, {"id": "B6.5.34", "lines": ["The shaypur roared; Hind’s daray answer hurled;", "Their thunder seemed to shake the turning world."]}, {"id": "B6.5.35", "lines": ["He dressed the left and right in battle rank,", "And called a famed champion from the flank."]}, {"id": "B6.5.36", "lines": ["Then Rostam cried, “The warrior sought is here;", "I hold this field and know no trace of fear.”"]}, {"id": "B6.5.37", "lines": ["He donned his battle jowshan, head to heel,", "Then mounted Rakhsh and drove against their steel."]}, {"id": "B6.5.38", "lines": ["He raised his heavy gorz upon his side,", "And urged brave Rakhsh against the hostile tide."]}, {"id": "B6.5.39", "lines": ["When foes beheld his chest and iron frame,", "And saw the heavy gorz with which he came,"]}, {"id": "B6.5.40", "lines": ["The king and chiefs knew Rostam by each sign,", "His chest, his gorz, his bearing in the line."]}, {"id": "B6.5.41", "lines": ["They quailed as courage failed within each breast,", "As though their hearts had fled and left no rest."]}, {"id": "B6.5.42", "lines": ["They broke and fled before his rising might,", "A mighty army scattered out of sight."]}, {"id": "B6.5.43", "lines": ["The king then summoned two young riders near,", "And charged them both to bear his words of fear:"]}, {"id": "B6.5.44", "lines": ["“Ride hard to Barbar and to Mesr with haste,", "Let not a moment of the journey waste."]}, {"id": "B6.5.45", "lines": ["Take letters sealed in sorrow, grief, and dread,", "With blood for ink upon the words you spread:"]}, {"id": "B6.5.46", "lines": ["‘Our realms lie near, in fortune, war, and feast;", "In good and ill our bond has never ceased."]}, {"id": "B6.5.47", "lines": ["If you will join me, I shall stand secure,", "And Rostam’s threat no longer shall endure."]}, {"id": "B6.5.48", "lines": ["But if you fail, his fury reaches all;", "No border stands beyond his sweeping fall.’”"]}, {"id": "B6.5.49", "lines": ["When those grim letters reached the distant kings,", "They heard the threat that Rostam’s coming brings."]}, {"id": "B6.5.50", "lines": ["They stirred to arms and gathered all their might,", "And marched to join the coming storm of fight."]}, {"id": "B6.5.51", "lines": ["The armies of three realms were joined in one,", "And marched toward Hamavaran with the sun."]}, {"id": "B6.5.52", "lines": ["From mountain to mountain the ranks were spread,", "And dust concealed the moon above their head."]}, {"id": "B6.5.53", "lines": ["Then Rostam sent a warrior through the line,", "In secret, bearing word of his design:"]}, {"id": "B6.5.54", "lines": ["“Three warlike kings approach, prepared to fight;", "My claw will leave them head from foot in flight."]}, {"id": "B6.5.55", "lines": ["But guard yourself from harm when battle’s near,", "For evil deeds from evil men appear."]}, {"id": "B6.5.56", "lines": ["The throne of Barbar would be worthless gain,", "If harm should reach your body in this strain.”"]}, {"id": "B6.5.57", "lines": ["Kavus replied: “Put fear and doubt away;", "This earth was never mine alone to sway."]}, {"id": "B6.5.58", "lines": ["With nectar poison comes in Fortune’s art;", "With hatred, love is mingled in the heart."]}, {"id": "B6.5.59", "lines": ["The World-Keeper is refuge at my side;", "His love a fortress where I may abide."]}, {"id": "B6.5.60", "lines": ["Give fleet Rakhsh rein; set spearpoint by his ear,", "Leave none alive, concealed or standing clear.”"]}, {"id": "B6.5.61", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, he armed himself again,", "And rode to meet the gathered ranks of men."]}, {"id": "B6.5.62", "lines": ["He called for any champion to appear,", "And stood alone, devoid of doubt or fear."]}, {"id": "B6.5.63", "lines": ["He waited long; no champion answered call,", "Before his challenge none came forth at all."]}, {"id": "B6.5.64", "lines": ["The radiant sun sank down beneath the main,", "And rushing night spread darkness on the plain."]}, {"id": "B6.5.65", "lines": ["Then Rostam turned and left the silent ground,", "And sought his tent where rest at last was found."]}, {"id": "B6.5.66", "lines": ["At dawn the sunlight chased the dark away,", "And Rostam armed once more to meet the day."]}, {"id": "B6.5.67", "lines": ["Then forth he came and called his captains near,", "And set their men in ranks with shield and spear."]}, {"id": "B6.6.1", "lines": ["Next day they set the battle in array,", "And raised their standards for the coming fray."]}, {"id": "B6.6.2", "lines": ["When peerless Rostam led his troops ahead,", "And saw three kingdoms on the field outspread,"]}, {"id": "B6.6.3", "lines": ["He spoke to all his warriors firm and clear:", "“Keep every eye awake and free of fear."]}, {"id": "B6.6.4", "lines": ["Watch mane and forelock, saddle, rein, and steed,", "And fix your gaze upon the spear you lead."]}, {"id": "B6.6.5", "lines": ["Though hundred horse or hundred thousand ride,", "Their numbers cannot turn the battle’s tide."]}, {"id": "B6.6.6", "lines": ["Pure Yazdan stands beside us in the fight;", "I cast their proud heads down from honor’s height.”"]}, {"id": "B6.6.7", "lines": ["Across the field three monarchs rode in pride,", "On elephants; their lines stretched two mil wide."]}, {"id": "B6.6.8", "lines": ["From Barbar came eight score in ponderous flow,", "Like Nile-flood waters boiling as they go."]}, {"id": "B6.6.9", "lines": ["Hamavaran’s hundred elephants came,", "With rank on rank of warriors behind the same."]}, {"id": "B6.6.10", "lines": ["The third, from Mesr, formed its battle might,", "The air grew dark; the earth was lost from sight."]}, {"id": "B6.6.11", "lines": ["The world seemed forged of jowshan, scale on scale,", "As though great Alborz wore an iron veil."]}, {"id": "B6.6.12", "lines": ["Behind the warriors, deep amid the haze,", "Red, yellow, violet banners seemed to blaze."]}, {"id": "B6.6.13", "lines": ["The mountains rang beneath the heroes’ cries,", "And earth grew weary where their horses rise."]}, {"id": "B6.6.14", "lines": ["The lion’s heart and claw both failed in dread,", "The eagle furled its wings; the cloud-bank fled."]}, {"id": "B6.6.15", "lines": ["Iran’s men ranked their troops on left and right,", "Their heroes burned for vengeance and the fight."]}, {"id": "B6.6.16", "lines": ["Guraza held the right, his lines arrayed;", "The baggage train beneath his guard was laid."]}, {"id": "B6.6.17", "lines": ["Zavareh held the left with dauntless fire,", "A lion-dragon fierce in battle’s ire."]}, {"id": "B6.6.18", "lines": ["At center Rostam waited, stern and grim,", "His rawhide kamand on the saddle’s rim."]}, {"id": "B6.6.19", "lines": ["He gave the sign; the karnay thundered high,", "And all the army surged beneath its cry."]}, {"id": "B6.6.20", "lines": ["Then swords and javelins flashed in battle’s glow,", "As heaven planted tulips red below."]}, {"id": "B6.6.21", "lines": ["When Rostam drove on Rakhsh across the field,", "Fire seemed to race wherever Rakhsh wheeled."]}, {"id": "B6.6.22", "lines": ["The plain became a river deep with blood,", "As crimson currents rolled in swelling flood."]}, {"id": "B6.6.23", "lines": ["On every side helmed heads were hewn away,", "Shattered jowshans through plain and hollow lay."]}, {"id": "B6.6.24", "lines": ["He spurred brave Rakhsh; he shunned the common foe,", "And sought the kings where battle’s currents flow."]}, {"id": "B6.6.25", "lines": ["He drove toward Sham’s king through battle’s tide,", "And cast his kamand toward the ruler’s side."]}, {"id": "B6.6.26", "lines": ["It clasped his waist, a dragon’s tightening ring,", "And held him mounted, helpless to the string."]}, {"id": "B6.6.27", "lines": ["He plucked him from the saddle in his fall,", "Like polo mallet striking up the ball."]}, {"id": "B6.6.28", "lines": ["Then Bahram bound the fallen king that day,", "And sixty famed warriors were led away."]}, {"id": "B6.6.29", "lines": ["The hills and hollows bore a crimson stain,", "While bodies lay in heaps across the plain."]}, {"id": "B6.6.30", "lines": ["Guraza’s snare the Barbar monarch caught,", "And forty chiefs were taken as they fought."]}, {"id": "B6.6.31", "lines": ["The king of Hamavaran saw with dread", "His soldiers strewn in heaps among the dead."]}, {"id": "B6.6.32", "lines": ["He saw one band of wounded men retreat,", "And one in chains brought low beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "B6.6.33", "lines": ["He saw brave Rostam cleaving through the field,", "Till Judgment Day itself seemed there revealed."]}, {"id": "B6.6.34", "lines": ["He knew this was the day disaster came,", "And begged of Rostam quarter in his name."]}, {"id": "B6.6.35", "lines": ["“I free Kay Kavus and the chiefs in chain,", "And yield the wealth and spoils that still remain:"]}, {"id": "B6.6.36", "lines": ["The pavilion, treasure, crown, and jewels bright,", "The servants, throne, and golden girdle’s light.”"]}, {"id": "B6.6.37", "lines": ["On these terms all agreed and left the fray,", "The three realms drew their battered ranks away."]}, {"id": "B6.6.38", "lines": ["The king of Hamavaran reached the town,", "And with his counselor at last sat down."]}, {"id": "B6.6.39", "lines": ["He sent and fetched Kavus from prison’s night,", "And raised him to the place that matched his right."]}, {"id": "B6.6.40", "lines": ["He freed Kavus and all the chiefs from chain,", "With Giv and Tus and Gudarz in his train."]}, {"id": "B6.6.41", "lines": ["Arms, treasures, tents, and crowns from every side", "Were stored in Iran’s treasury inside."]}, {"id": "B6.6.42", "lines": ["Kavus prepared a golden litter bright,", "With Roman brocade gleaming in the light."]}, {"id": "B6.6.43", "lines": ["A ruby crown, a turquoise gah were laid,", "Beneath a black jeweled housing richly made."]}, {"id": "B6.6.44", "lines": ["He placed the litter on a swift-foot steed,", "With golden bridle made for royal need."]}, {"id": "B6.6.45", "lines": ["Fresh aloeswood was fashioned for its frame,", "And many kinds of jewels lit the same."]}, {"id": "B6.6.46", "lines": ["He bade Sudabeh take her hidden place,", "Like sun beneath the earth, she hid her face."]}, {"id": "B6.6.47", "lines": ["Kavus then led the army from the town,", "And brought it to the camp beneath his crown."]}, {"id": "B6.6.48", "lines": ["From Barbar, Mesr, Hamavaran they came,", "A hundred thousand horsemen in his name."]}, {"id": "B6.6.49", "lines": ["More than three hundred thousand filled the plain,", "In jowshans, steeds in bargostvan, a train."]}, {"id": "B6.7.1", "lines": ["Then Kavus sent a rider westward bound,", "To Caesar’s court, where Roman chiefs were found."]}, {"id": "B6.7.2", "lines": ["“Let no renowned defender linger near;", "Send all your foremost warriors to me here."]}, {"id": "B6.7.3", "lines": ["Their coming shall make darkened counsel clear,", "And make the might of Roman arms appear."]}, {"id": "B6.7.4", "lines": ["Choose one world-tried, accomplished with the rein,", "No lesser horseman should cross that plain."]}, {"id": "B6.7.5", "lines": ["Send Rum’s array to join my royal band,", "And march beside me through the settled land.”"]}, {"id": "B6.7.6", "lines": ["Then news from Hamavaran was conveyed", "Of Rostam’s blows on Mesr and Barbar made."]}, {"id": "B6.7.7", "lines": ["The old Iranian guard meanwhile chose one,", "A mighty horseman, famed for battles won."]}, {"id": "B6.7.8", "lines": ["They wrote a letter in a measured tone,", "In royal form befitting crown and throne:"]}, {"id": "B6.7.9", "lines": ["“We serve you, Shah, whose crown upholds the right,", "And cross the world obedient to your might."]}, {"id": "B6.7.10", "lines": ["When troops from Gorgasaran sought your power,", "Their grasping purpose showed within the hour."]}, {"id": "B6.7.11", "lines": ["Their hunger for your throne filled us with pain,", "To see such pride arise within their train."]}, {"id": "B6.7.12", "lines": ["When Afrasiab marched to claim your crown,", "We broke his lines and drove his forces down."]}, {"id": "B6.7.13", "lines": ["Then sword-bearing chiefs assembled strong,", "At vengeance-ground to meet the coming throng."]}, {"id": "B6.7.14", "lines": ["With long spears we made bitter all his ease,", "And turned his rest to anguish by degrees."]}, {"id": "B6.7.15", "lines": ["On both sides many fell in that harsh fray,", "While Time through good and evil passed away."]}, {"id": "B6.7.16", "lines": ["Now word arrives: your royal farr is sure,", "Your strength renewed, your kingdom’s fate secure."]}, {"id": "B6.7.17", "lines": ["When you return from Barbar with the rein,", "We all shall raise our spears across the plain."]}, {"id": "B6.7.18", "lines": ["We shall fill earth from hill to hill with blood,", "And make the world run red like Jihun’s flood.”"]}, {"id": "B6.7.19", "lines": ["The envoy spurred at once and set his face", "Toward Barbar to pursue the Shah’s grace."]}, {"id": "B6.7.20", "lines": ["Kavus received the message, read it through,", "And marked the pledge as loyal, firm, and true."]}, {"id": "B6.7.21", "lines": ["He sent Afrasiab a challenge stern,", "And warned him from his reckless course to turn:"]}, {"id": "B6.7.22", "lines": ["“Withdraw from Iran; do not linger still,", "For you have filled my head with talk and ill."]}, {"id": "B6.7.23", "lines": ["Turan provides you all your heart can need;", "Why stretch your hand toward evil out of greed?"]}, {"id": "B6.7.24", "lines": ["Desire no more than fortune grants your reign,", "For excess swiftly brings enduring pain."]}, {"id": "B6.7.25", "lines": ["Know well your lesser station; curb your will,", "And keep the skin upon your body still."]}, {"id": "B6.7.26", "lines": ["Do you not know that Iran is my seat,", "And all the earth lies subject at my feet?"]}, {"id": "B6.7.27", "lines": ["No leopard, bold in courage, strength, or breath,", "Would face a lion’s claw and not meet death.”"]}, {"id": "B6.7.28", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, gave it to a man,", "A warrior born within a Pahlevan clan."]}, {"id": "B6.7.29", "lines": ["Before the king of Turks and Chin he bowed,", "Kissed earth, gave blessing, then the words avowed."]}, {"id": "B6.7.30", "lines": ["He spoke the Shah’s commands before the throne,", "Then gave the written words that made them known."]}, {"id": "B6.7.31", "lines": ["When Afrasiab read the written threat,", "His blood rose hot, his fury firmly set."]}, {"id": "B6.7.32", "lines": ["He said: “Such words befit a nature base;", "Let him think twice before he shows his face."]}, {"id": "B6.7.33", "lines": ["If Iran had fulfilled your restless will,", "You would not covet Hamavaran still."]}, {"id": "B6.7.34", "lines": ["Now I have come prepared to wage the fight,", "And raised my shining standard to the light."]}, {"id": "B6.7.35", "lines": ["Iran is mine by two claims, plain and sure:", "By ancient blood, and conquest made secure."]}, {"id": "B6.7.36", "lines": ["From Tur, my forebear, comes my royal claim,", "The son of Fereydoon, of deathless name."]}, {"id": "B6.7.37", "lines": ["And more; I drove the Arab ranks away,", "And cleared Iran with steel in open fray."]}, {"id": "B6.7.38", "lines": ["My sword can strike the mountain’s crest from sight,", "And drag the eagle from the cloud of night.”"]}, {"id": "B6.7.39", "lines": ["He armed his ranks with gorz and sword in hand,", "On chargers clad in bargostvan they stand."]}, {"id": "B6.7.40", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab rode with urgent speed,", "Toward Kavus with his battle-ready steed."]}, {"id": "B6.7.41", "lines": ["When Kavus heard, he gathered all his force,", "And set his ranks for battle on their course."]}, {"id": "B6.7.42", "lines": ["From Barbar toward the Arab ranks he came,", "A boundless army gathering in his name."]}, {"id": "B6.7.43", "lines": ["Afrasiab set his forces in array,", "And dust rose to the heavens through the day."]}, {"id": "B6.7.44", "lines": ["The buq and koust resounded far and high,", "The earth seemed iron, ebony the sky."]}, {"id": "B6.7.45", "lines": ["The tabarzin struck hard in clash and strain,", "And waves of blood rose high across the plain."]}, {"id": "B6.7.46", "lines": ["From center Tahamtan roared through the fray,", "One charge tore through their center’s firm array."]}, {"id": "B6.7.47", "lines": ["The fortune of Afrasiab’s warriors slept,", "As ruin through the Turanian battle swept."]}, {"id": "B6.7.48", "lines": ["He boiled like wine though nowhere burned a fire,", "And called his warriors back in rising ire:"]}, {"id": "B6.7.49", "lines": ["“O lions of my ranks, my chosen band,", "This hour has come; obey my firm command."]}, {"id": "B6.7.50", "lines": ["I raised you for the hour that now is here,", "For such a day I kept you always near."]}, {"id": "B6.7.51", "lines": ["Now cross your swords and strike in ordered line;", "No headlong rush can serve this cause of mine."]}, {"id": "B6.7.52", "lines": ["Strike hard, support each other in the fray,", "Make earth too small for Kavus on this day."]}, {"id": "B6.7.53", "lines": ["With javelin and khanjar strike his van,", "Cut down his chiefs and break their daring plan."]}, {"id": "B6.7.54", "lines": ["And Rostam of Sistan, lion-heart of fame,", "Whose sword makes even heaven blush with shame,"]}, {"id": "B6.7.55", "lines": ["Be bold and take him captive if you dare;", "Cast ropes and drag him down within your snare."]}, {"id": "B6.7.56", "lines": ["Whoever from his leopard saddle flings", "Great Rostam down shall win a realm of kings."]}, {"id": "B6.7.57", "lines": ["My daughter, kingship, parasol I give,", "And name him sepahbod while he shall live."]}, {"id": "B6.7.58", "lines": ["I give him Iran’s realm beneath his hand,", "And raise him to the heavens over land.”"]}, {"id": "B6.7.59", "lines": ["At this the Turanians rallied to the cry,", "And turned once more to battle beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B6.7.60", "lines": ["But Iran’s chiefs advanced with many gorz raised,", "Their heavy iron through the battle blazed."]}, {"id": "B6.7.61", "lines": ["So many Turanians fell beneath the blow,", "That plain and sea and mountain ceased to show."]}, {"id": "B6.7.62", "lines": ["Two portions of the Turanian ranks were slain,", "Their blood made clay of all the sodden plain."]}, {"id": "B6.7.63", "lines": ["Their fortune failed; their battle broke apart,", "And terror seized all limb and mind and heart."]}, {"id": "B6.7.64", "lines": ["Afrasiab then turned his back in flight,", "And fled from Rostam’s overwhelming might."]}, {"id": "B6.7.65", "lines": ["With troops from Ghur he sought to turn the tide,", "But found no gain, and hope itself had died."]}, {"id": "B6.7.66", "lines": ["When Fortune showed him loss on every hand,", "From Ghur he turned toward Turan’s distant land."]}, {"id": "B6.7.67", "lines": ["His heart was wounded; two parts of his force", "Lay dead behind the ruin of his course."]}, {"id": "B6.7.68", "lines": ["He sought sweet nectar from the world in vain,", "But poison was the only draft to gain."]}, {"id": "B6.8.1", "lines": ["When Kavus came to Pars, his royal seat,", "The world grew bright, its former bloom complete."]}, {"id": "B6.8.2", "lines": ["An age of joy and order then began,", "With justice guiding every work of man."]}, {"id": "B6.8.3", "lines": ["He set the throne in balance, firm and right,", "And filled his halls with feasting and delight."]}, {"id": "B6.8.4", "lines": ["He sent forth Pahlevans, resolute and wise,", "To rule each province under watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "B6.8.5", "lines": ["To Marv and Nishapur his armies went,", "To Balkh and Herat, on his service bent."]}, {"id": "B6.8.6", "lines": ["Then justice ruled, and violence gave way;", "The wolf no longer stalked the lamb as prey."]}, {"id": "B6.8.7", "lines": ["His treasure, splendor, farr began to swell,", "Till royal plenty overflowed its well."]}, {"id": "B6.8.8", "lines": ["Pari and men and Divs became his train,", "And served him all beneath his royal reign."]}, {"id": "B6.8.9", "lines": ["All crown-bearing kings joined his array,", "And stood as soldiers, ready to obey."]}, {"id": "B6.8.10", "lines": ["He raised up Rostam, foremost in renown,", "As World-Champion, glory of the crown."]}, {"id": "B6.8.11", "lines": ["Upon Mount Alborz he prepared a height,", "Where weary Divs were spent beneath his might."]}, {"id": "B6.8.12", "lines": ["Two houses there of hardest stone were made,", "Their massive forms in ordered measure laid."]}, {"id": "B6.8.13", "lines": ["Each measured ten kamands across its span,", "Raised firm in stone according to his plan."]}, {"id": "B6.8.14", "lines": ["He carved stone stables in the mountain’s side,", "With pillars set and steel nails deep applied."]}, {"id": "B6.8.15", "lines": ["War-steeds stood there, and camels for the way,", "To bear the royal ammari day by day."]}, {"id": "B6.8.16", "lines": ["He built a palace fashioned all of glass,", "Its walls with emeralds set in shining mass."]}, {"id": "B6.8.17", "lines": ["A dome of onyx crowned the structure high,", "Brought far from Yemen under southern sky."]}, {"id": "B6.8.18", "lines": ["A famed Mobad was seated in that place,", "Where knowledge never waned or lost its grace."]}, {"id": "B6.8.19", "lines": ["Two silver armories were built beside,", "With weapons for the royal wars supplied."]}, {"id": "B6.8.20", "lines": ["A golden hall for Kavus rose, ornate,", "Two shast in height, its measured walls stood straight."]}, {"id": "B6.8.21", "lines": ["With turquoise tracery the walls were dressed,", "And rubies burned from every arch and crest."]}, {"id": "B6.8.22", "lines": ["Its stores increased with every passing day,", "And never once diminished or gave way."]}, {"id": "B6.8.23", "lines": ["No summer heat could touch that high design;", "The air breathed ambergris, its rainfall wine."]}, {"id": "B6.8.24", "lines": ["Spring lingered there throughout the circling year,", "With flowers bright as faces, fresh and clear."]}, {"id": "B6.8.25", "lines": ["No grief or heartache touched that mountain keep;", "Through justice, evil Time was lulled to sleep."]}, {"id": "B6.8.26", "lines": ["The Divs remained imprisoned in their pain,", "And wailed beneath the Shah’s chastising chain."]}, {"id": "B6.9.1", "lines": ["One dawn, concealed from Kavus’s watchful eyes,", "Iblis convened the Divs with cunning lies."]}, {"id": "B6.9.2", "lines": ["“Each day we toil beneath this monarch’s reign,", "And all our dealings bring us grief and pain."]}, {"id": "B6.9.3", "lines": ["We need one Div both subtle and well-skilled,", "Who knows each counsel, every course we have willed."]}, {"id": "B6.9.4", "lines": ["To turn him from pure Yazdan’s righteous way,", "And cast dust on his farr and dim its ray.”"]}, {"id": "B6.9.5", "lines": ["The Divs fell silent; none would dare agree,", "For fear of Kavus checked their company."]}, {"id": "B6.9.6", "lines": ["At last one rose, malicious, sharp, and sly,", "And said: “Give me this task, and I will try."]}, {"id": "B6.9.7", "lines": ["I shall estrange him from pure Yazdan’s creed;", "No other Div can match me in this deed.”"]}, {"id": "B6.9.8", "lines": ["He took the form of a young gholam, fair,", "With eloquence to seek the Shah’s own chair."]}, {"id": "B6.9.9", "lines": ["He waited till the Shah rode forth to hunt,", "Then stepped ahead and met him at the front."]}, {"id": "B6.9.10", "lines": ["He bowed full low, with flowers in his hand,", "And praised the king in words both smooth and grand:"]}, {"id": "B6.9.11", "lines": ["“Your beauty and your farr have reached the sky;", "The turning sphere should be your seat on high."]}, {"id": "B6.9.12", "lines": ["The earth is yours, all creatures heed your call;", "You are the shepherd, and the great your thrall."]}, {"id": "B6.9.13", "lines": ["One deed remains to leave a lasting sign,", "A mark no age can darken or decline."]}, {"id": "B6.9.14", "lines": ["Why should the sun conceal its hidden course,", "Its rise, its fall, its never-failing force?"]}, {"id": "B6.9.15", "lines": ["What are the moon, the night, the passing day?", "Who turns the wheeling heavens on their way?"]}, {"id": "B6.9.16", "lines": ["You hold the earth and all beneath your will;", "Trap heaven too; let none escape you still.”"]}, {"id": "B6.9.17", "lines": ["The Shah was stirred and set all thought aside;", "The Div had turned his heart from wisdom’s guide."]}, {"id": "B6.9.18", "lines": ["He thought the turning sphere had shown its face,", "And opened to him every hidden place."]}, {"id": "B6.9.19", "lines": ["He knew not heaven’s wheel can never stand;", "Though stars are countless, Yazdan gives command."]}, {"id": "B6.9.20", "lines": ["Before His will all creatures stand confined;", "No strife or tumult frees the mortal kind."]}, {"id": "B6.9.21", "lines": ["The World-Creator needs no earthly aid;", "You need both earth and heaven He has made."]}, {"id": "B6.9.22", "lines": ["He pondered how a man without a wing", "Might leave the earth and through the heavens spring."]}, {"id": "B6.9.23", "lines": ["“How far,” he asked, “from earth to moon’s pale sphere?”", "The star-wise sage replied; the Shah gave ear."]}, {"id": "B6.9.24", "lines": ["Then he devised a crooked, reckless plan,", "A scheme unworthy of a reasoning man."]}, {"id": "B6.9.25", "lines": ["He sent men upward to the eagle’s nest,", "And took the young while parent birds found rest."]}, {"id": "B6.9.26", "lines": ["He bade each house tend one or perhaps two,", "And raise them strong with careful feeding due."]}, {"id": "B6.9.27", "lines": ["Through year and month they fed the growing brood,", "On birds and flesh of lambs for daily food."]}, {"id": "B6.9.28", "lines": ["Till each grew lion-strong in strength and frame,", "And mountain rams became their easy game."]}, {"id": "B6.9.29", "lines": ["A throne of Qomari aloeswood he made,", "Its upper joints with gold secured and laid."]}, {"id": "B6.9.30", "lines": ["Along its sides he fixed long spears upright,", "And bound them firmly to the throne and tight."]}, {"id": "B6.9.31", "lines": ["From every spear he hung a lamb’s fat thigh,", "To draw the hungry eagles straining high."]}, {"id": "B6.9.32", "lines": ["He brought four mighty eagles to the ground,", "One on each side, securely lashed and bound."]}, {"id": "B6.9.33", "lines": ["Then Kavus settled on the lifted seat,", "A cup of wine before him, red and sweet."]}, {"id": "B6.9.34", "lines": ["The starving eagles, eager for their prey,", "Strained upward hard and beat their wings away."]}, {"id": "B6.9.35", "lines": ["They drove themselves toward the suspended meat,", "And raised the throne with every upward beat."]}, {"id": "B6.9.36", "lines": ["They climbed toward the meat with all their force,", "And bore the throne aloft along its course."]}, {"id": "B6.9.37", "lines": ["Some say he sought the firmament on high,", "To pass beyond the beings of the sky."]}, {"id": "B6.9.38", "lines": ["Others declare he meant to fight the sphere,", "With bow and arrows armed as he drew near."]}, {"id": "B6.9.39", "lines": ["Many the tales; their truth remains unknown,", "The World-Creator knows it, He alone."]}, {"id": "B6.9.40", "lines": ["The eagles flew until their strength had failed;", "Such is the end when greed has one assailed."]}, {"id": "B6.9.41", "lines": ["Their feathers, soaked with sweat, clung to each wing;", "No further strength remained in anything."]}, {"id": "B6.9.42", "lines": ["Head downward from the black cloud they were flung;", "The throne and spears dragged through the air and swung."]}, {"id": "B6.9.43", "lines": ["The Shah and throne descended from the height,", "And struck the forest in their broken flight."]}, {"id": "B6.9.44", "lines": ["Near Amol’s woods the shattered journey ceased,", "And there the humbled Shah from pride was released."]}, {"id": "B6.9.45", "lines": ["The world preserved him, for his destined thread", "Had not run out; the future lay ahead."]}, {"id": "B6.9.46", "lines": ["For Siavash had yet to spring from him;", "His lamp of life could not yet gutter dim."]}, {"id": "B6.9.47", "lines": ["Instead of throne and greatness, grief remained;", "Repentance ruled the king whom pride had stained."]}, {"id": "B6.9.48", "lines": ["He stayed within the forest, worn and bowed,", "And prayed to the Creator, grief avowed."]}, {"id": "B6.10.1", "lines": ["While thus the Shah sought pardon for his deed,", "His army searched the land with anxious speed."]}, {"id": "B6.10.2", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, with Giv and Tus he sped,", "With troops, with elephants, and koust ahead."]}, {"id": "B6.10.3", "lines": ["Old Gudarz thought, a man of seasoned sight,", "Whose years had watched the turns of wrong and right."]}, {"id": "B6.10.4", "lines": ["“Since first I drank the milk at mother’s breast,", "I have observed how kings arise and rest."]}, {"id": "B6.10.5", "lines": ["I have watched Kayanian crown and royal seat,", "And wakeful chiefs whom Fortune made complete."]}, {"id": "B6.10.6", "lines": ["In high or low I never met a man", "So self-willed, careless of a reasoned plan."]}, {"id": "B6.10.7", "lines": ["Your judgment, wisdom, sense have gone astray;", "Both mind and heart have wandered from their way."]}, {"id": "B6.10.8", "lines": ["It seems no brain resides within your head;", "No sound thought follows where your judgment led."]}, {"id": "B6.10.9", "lines": ["No famed man from the ages now gone by", "Has ever set his purpose toward the sky."]}, {"id": "B6.10.10", "lines": ["Like one gone mad, no path or judgment found,", "Each passing wind can cast you to the ground.”"]}, {"id": "B6.10.11", "lines": ["The chiefs arrived and would not now restrain", "Their anger, nor conceal their just disdain."]}, {"id": "B6.10.12", "lines": ["“A madhouse suits you better than a town,”", "Said Gudarz, “better far than court or crown."]}, {"id": "B6.10.13", "lines": ["You yield your place to enemies with ease,", "And hide your futile counsels as you please."]}, {"id": "B6.10.14", "lines": ["Three times calamity has caught you fast,", "Yet no experience schools you from the past."]}, {"id": "B6.10.15", "lines": ["You led your men to Mazandaran’s gate;", "Behold the ruin that befell your state."]}, {"id": "B6.10.16", "lines": ["Again you made yourself the foeman’s guest,", "An idol turned to Brahman in this test."]}, {"id": "B6.10.17", "lines": ["None but pure Yazdan in the world remained", "Who had not read the charter your sword framed."]}, {"id": "B6.10.18", "lines": ["You rode the whole earth armed for war below;", "Now, reckless, you make heaven too your foe."]}, {"id": "B6.10.19", "lines": ["You seek beyond the bounds of mortal place,", "To meet a power as equal face to face."]}, {"id": "B6.10.20", "lines": ["What grief remains that you have not survived?", "What ruin has not left you yet alive?"]}, {"id": "B6.10.21", "lines": ["Men yet will tell what such a king had done,", "Who rose to heaven, viewed the moon and sun,"]}, {"id": "B6.10.22", "lines": ["And count the stars above him one by one;", "Such tales will live when this brief life is run."]}, {"id": "B6.10.23", "lines": ["Now follow wakeful kings in counsel wise,", "And heed the well-wishers before your eyes."]}, {"id": "B6.10.24", "lines": ["Seek only service to pure Yazdan high;", "In good and ill, on Him alone rely.”"]}, {"id": "B6.10.25", "lines": ["Kavus stood silent, shamed before their gaze,", "His pride struck down beneath the chieftains’ phrase."]}, {"id": "B6.10.26", "lines": ["He said: “Truth does no injury to right;", "Your words are just; I cannot call them slight."]}, {"id": "B6.10.27", "lines": ["All you have said is justice, nothing wrong;", "My soul remains bound to your counsel long.”"]}, {"id": "B6.10.28", "lines": ["He shed his yellow tears before them all,", "And on the World-Creator he would call."]}, {"id": "B6.10.29", "lines": ["He entered the ammari, bowed with pain;", "Repentance held his humbled heart in chain."]}, {"id": "B6.10.30", "lines": ["They brought him back to his exalted seat,", "Yet grief for what he had done made joy retreat."]}, {"id": "B6.10.31", "lines": ["Ashamed, he turned aside from royal state,", "And bowed to dust beneath repentance’s weight."]}, {"id": "B6.10.32", "lines": ["For forty days he bowed himself in prayer,", "With tears that marked his grief and deep despair."]}, {"id": "B6.10.33", "lines": ["From shame he would not pass the palace door;", "His skin seemed shriveled by the grief he bore."]}, {"id": "B6.10.34", "lines": ["His eyes poured blood-like tears in ceaseless flow;", "He begged the Guide forgiveness for his woe."]}, {"id": "B6.10.35", "lines": ["Before the chiefs he made his stature small,", "And barred procession and the audience hall."]}, {"id": "B6.10.36", "lines": ["He gave his wealth in acts of open grace,", "And pressed his cheek upon the dark earth’s face."]}, {"id": "B6.10.37", "lines": ["At last the World-Creator heard his plea,", "Forgave the Shah and set his spirit free."]}, {"id": "B6.10.38", "lines": ["The scattered men from both great armies came,", "And gathered at the court beneath his name."]}, {"id": "B6.10.39", "lines": ["The Judge’s pardon lit his face, and through", "His spirit ran a tempered grace that grew."]}, {"id": "B6.10.40", "lines": ["He saw his suffering had borne its due,", "And turned once more to rule with purpose true."]}, {"id": "B6.10.41", "lines": ["He took his seat upon the throne of gold,", "And opened treasury, and freely doled."]}, {"id": "B6.10.42", "lines": ["He founded justice newly through the realm,", "And high and low grew bright beneath his helm."]}, {"id": "B6.10.43", "lines": ["Through justice, all the world wore brocade fair;", "The Shah sat radiant in the royal chair."]}, {"id": "B6.10.44", "lines": ["The crowned chiefs came from every realm around,", "And rebels turned to duty, honor-bound."]}, {"id": "B6.10.45", "lines": ["Time turned again to what it was before;", "The Shah was washed in faith down to the core."]}, {"id": "B6.10.46", "lines": ["The greatest chiefs became his servants all,", "Attending humbly at the monarch’s call."]}, {"id": "B6.10.47", "lines": ["He sat upon the jewel-studded seat,", "With crown and ox-head gorz, his state complete."]}, {"id": "B6.10.48", "lines": ["Thus I have told what little reached my ear;", "The ways of Shah and Pahlevan stand clear."]}, {"id": "B6.10.49", "lines": ["Wherever justice crowns a sovereign’s reign,", "No rescuer is needed in his pain."]}, {"id": "B6.10.50", "lines": ["He dealt in justice, chastened where he sinned;", "For now he knew the world is only wind."]}]}, {"id": "B7", "title": "The Fight of the Seven Warriors", "summary": "4 sections · 240 couplets", "path": "/poem/b7/", "couplets": [{"id": "B7.1.1", "lines": ["To strive against death’s hand is toil and strife;", "This is the lesson drawn from Rostam’s life."]}, {"id": "B7.1.2", "lines": ["A minstrel grappled with a male lion’s might,", "And sang of courage, fate, and death in fight:"]}, {"id": "B7.1.3", "lines": ["“If you would win the glory of the brave,", "And stain with blood an Indian-forged glaive,"]}, {"id": "B7.1.4", "lines": ["Do not turn back when battle draws you near;", "When Time comes on, no flight can conquer fear."]}, {"id": "B7.1.5", "lines": ["If prudence stands beside you in the fray,", "The brave will never count you bold that day."]}, {"id": "B7.1.6", "lines": ["For wisdom and religion have their road;", "The needs of battle bear a different load.”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.7", "lines": ["A noble tale of Rostam now I tell,", "From Nawand’s halls where royal splendors dwell."]}, {"id": "B7.1.8", "lines": ["There mighty Rostam held a splendid feast,", "Where joy and music flowed and never ceased."]}, {"id": "B7.1.9", "lines": ["There blazed the Fire of Barzin, clear and bright,", "Its sacred flame gave Nawand’s halls their light."]}, {"id": "B7.1.10", "lines": ["The chiefs of Iran came, a famed array,", "The foremost warriors gathered for the day."]}, {"id": "B7.1.11", "lines": ["Tus came with Gudarz, Keshvad’s noble son,", "With Bahram, Giv; each famed for battles won."]}, {"id": "B7.1.12", "lines": ["Gorgin and Zangeh of Shavaran came,", "With Kharrad, Gostaham, chiefs of famous name."]}, {"id": "B7.1.13", "lines": ["Then Barzin and Guraza joined the throng,", "The crown and glory of that gathering strong."]}, {"id": "B7.1.14", "lines": ["Each came attended by a noble band,", "Together forming one renowned command."]}, {"id": "B7.1.15", "lines": ["They played at polo, bent the bow, and vied,", "Then drank and hunted through the country wide."]}, {"id": "B7.1.16", "lines": ["So several days in joy and sport were spent,", "With feast and pleasure filling every tent."]}, {"id": "B7.1.17", "lines": ["When all were warmed with wine, bold Giv arose,", "And spoke to Rostam as the red wine glows:"]}, {"id": "B7.1.18", "lines": ["“Great chief, if hunting stirs your heart today,", "Let fleet-foot cheetahs lead us on our way."]}, {"id": "B7.1.19", "lines": ["Let us invade Afrasiab’s hunting ground,", "And stir his guarded preserves all around."]}, {"id": "B7.1.20", "lines": ["Our dust shall veil the sun and dim the skies,", "While hawks and cheetahs range and long spears rise."]}, {"id": "B7.1.21", "lines": ["We cast the kamand where Gur-e-Khar roam,", "And strike the prowling lions in their home."]}, {"id": "B7.1.22", "lines": ["We spear the boars; our hawks bring pheasants low,", "And hunt the long day till the sun sinks slow."]}, {"id": "B7.1.23", "lines": ["Across Turan’s broad plain our hunt shall range,", "And leave a memory no years can change.”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.24", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “May all be as you crave,", "And may good fortune crown the bold and brave."]}, {"id": "B7.1.25", "lines": ["At dawn we ride across Turan’s domain,", "And tire of neither hunting nor the rein.”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.26", "lines": ["They all agreed, and when the dawn broke clear,", "They rose prepared, their hearts steeled against fear."]}, {"id": "B7.1.27", "lines": ["With hawks and cheetahs fitted for the chase,", "They reached the River Shahd at rapid pace."]}, {"id": "B7.1.28", "lines": ["They reached the hunting-ground of Turan’s king,", "With mountains rising on one bordering wing."]}, {"id": "B7.1.29", "lines": ["A river marked another boundary line,", "While Sarakhs stood beyond, a distant sign."]}, {"id": "B7.1.30", "lines": ["Before them stretched the desert, broad and bare,", "Its open reaches fading into air."]}, {"id": "B7.1.31", "lines": ["There gazelles wandered, sheep and grazing herds,", "Across the plain beneath the wheeling birds."]}, {"id": "B7.1.32", "lines": ["Tents and pavilions covered all the plain,", "While startled gazelles scattered from the train."]}, {"id": "B7.1.33", "lines": ["The prowling lions vanished from the land,", "And word of hunters reached the feathered band."]}, {"id": "B7.1.34", "lines": ["The birds and game were struck on every side,", "By shaft and arrow through the country wide."]}, {"id": "B7.1.35", "lines": ["Some died outright, some wounded fled in pain,", "And scattered blood lay dark across the plain."]}, {"id": "B7.1.36", "lines": ["The hunters laughed, light-hearted, flushed with wine,", "Their joy complete within that bold design."]}, {"id": "B7.1.37", "lines": ["A week they passed in sport and revelry,", "With goblets raised in careless liberty."]}, {"id": "B7.1.38", "lines": ["On eighth dawn Tahamtan began to weigh", "A prudent course and thus was heard to say:"]}, {"id": "B7.1.39", "lines": ["“By now Afrasiab surely knows our track;", "We must not let him strike and drive us back."]}, {"id": "B7.1.40", "lines": ["He may consult his chiefs and shape a snare,", "Then make this hunting-ground too strait to bear."]}, {"id": "B7.1.41", "lines": ["Our cheetahs then would find no open ground,", "If Turan’s mounted ranks should close around."]}, {"id": "B7.1.42", "lines": ["We need a watcher posted on the way,", "To bring us warning without long delay."]}, {"id": "B7.1.43", "lines": ["At any sign, let him spur back his steed,", "Before the foe can bar the road we need.”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.44", "lines": ["Then Guraza strung his bow and took his stand,", "A watchful chief beside the hunting band."]}, {"id": "B7.1.45", "lines": ["With such a guard, no foeman’s secret art", "Could trap the army or divide its heart."]}, {"id": "B7.1.46", "lines": ["The rest resumed the hunt, the feast, the cheer,", "With no thought yet of battle drawing near."]}, {"id": "B7.1.47", "lines": ["That night Afrasiab received the news,", "And called his seasoned captains for their views."]}, {"id": "B7.1.48", "lines": ["He spoke of Rostam and his famed renown,", "And seven chiefs, each lion of the crown:"]}, {"id": "B7.1.49", "lines": ["“We must not pause, but shape a hidden blow;", "Surprise will break them faster than they know."]}, {"id": "B7.1.50", "lines": ["If we can seize those seven on the plain,", "We make the world too narrow for Kavus’s reign."]}, {"id": "B7.1.51", "lines": ["We ride disguised as hunters to their ground,", "And strike before their chiefs can gather round.”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.52", "lines": ["He chose full thirty thousand sword-armed men,", "And gave his urgent order there and then:"]}, {"id": "B7.1.53", "lines": ["“Ride straight ahead and never slack your pace;", "Let no fatigue delay you in the chase."]}, {"id": "B7.1.54", "lines": ["Ride without rest; let no delay remain,", "Until you strike them hard upon the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.55", "lines": ["They rushed along the desert road in flight,", "While dust-clouds turned the open day to night."]}, {"id": "B7.1.56", "lines": ["Meanwhile he sent great forces far and wide,", "To close each road on every outward side."]}, {"id": "B7.1.57", "lines": ["He barred each road that led beyond the ground,", "So none could flee the snare that closed around."]}, {"id": "B7.1.58", "lines": ["As they drew near, Guraza caught their trail,", "A black cloud swelling like a stormy gale."]}, {"id": "B7.1.59", "lines": ["They neared the hunting-ground with vengeance hot,", "And drove their mounted ranks toward the spot."]}, {"id": "B7.1.60", "lines": ["The plain threw dust toward heaven in a haze,", "While banners moved within the darkened maze."]}, {"id": "B7.1.61", "lines": ["A lapis standard rose through swirling rays,", "Its folds emerged within the dusty blaze."]}, {"id": "B7.1.62", "lines": ["Like rushing wind the watcher turned in flight,", "With shout and cry he hastened from the sight."]}, {"id": "B7.1.63", "lines": ["He found the heroes deep in sport and cheer,", "Their cups still full, not dreaming foes were near."]}, {"id": "B7.1.64", "lines": ["“O Rostam,” cried he, “lion of the field,", "Rise from the feast; the enemy is revealed."]}, {"id": "B7.1.65", "lines": ["A force beyond all count has spread in might,", "Till height and hollow vanish from the sight."]}, {"id": "B7.1.66", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s banner burns within the light,", "A sun through dust that darkens day to night!”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.67", "lines": ["Then Rostam laughed: “Victorious Fortune’s near;", "Why should the Turk or Turan’s horse bring fear?"]}, {"id": "B7.1.68", "lines": ["Why fear Afrasiab or his mounted train?", "No mass of horse can shake me on this plain."]}, {"id": "B7.1.69", "lines": ["At most a hundred thousand riders show,", "Rein-masters, bargostvan from row to row."]}, {"id": "B7.1.70", "lines": ["Though all his horsemen crowd this open ground,", "Their numbers cannot turn our fortune round."]}, {"id": "B7.1.71", "lines": ["With Rakhsh, my armor, and my gorz in hand,", "Alone I would not yield a foot of land."]}, {"id": "B7.1.72", "lines": ["If one of us stood firm upon this field,", "All Turan’s strength would seem too small to wield."]}, {"id": "B7.1.73", "lines": ["This field alone provides the strength I need;", "I ask no troops from Iran for this deed."]}, {"id": "B7.1.74", "lines": ["One rider here is worth five hundred strong;", "Two joined could face a thousand all day long."]}, {"id": "B7.1.75", "lines": ["So, cupbearer, bring Zabuli wine;", "Fill high the bolbola and make it mine.”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.76", "lines": ["They filled the cup, and Rostam laughed aloud,", "While joy ran high throughout the warrior crowd."]}, {"id": "B7.1.77", "lines": ["He raised the cup to honor Kavus then,", "Then drank and kissed the earth before the men."]}, {"id": "B7.1.78", "lines": ["He raised another cup and kissed the ground,", "And said: “To you, O Tus, this draft goes round.”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.79", "lines": ["The princes rose and bowed before his place:", "“Beside your cup, none can maintain his pace."]}, {"id": "B7.1.80", "lines": ["Not even Iblis could your cup withstand;", "The wine, the gorz, the field obey your hand.”"]}, {"id": "B7.1.81", "lines": ["He drank red Zabuli wine from out the bowl,", "Then hailed Zavareh with a joyful soul."]}, {"id": "B7.1.82", "lines": ["Zavareh raised the cup like nightingale,", "And sang of Kay Kavus in ringing tale."]}, {"id": "B7.1.83", "lines": ["He drank the Shah’s health, kissed the earth, and so", "Bowed to the warriors seated row on row."]}, {"id": "B7.1.84", "lines": ["And Rostam praised him: “Brother, you drink well;", "A lion at the cup none can excel.”"]}, {"id": "B7.2.1", "lines": ["“O pride of kings and glory of the field,”", "Said Giv, “I hold the bridge and make them yield."]}, {"id": "B7.2.2", "lines": ["While we prepare for war and arm each steed,", "I check their charge and answer every need."]}, {"id": "B7.2.3", "lines": ["Our feast and merriment are put away;", "Now let each warrior arm without delay.”"]}, {"id": "B7.2.4", "lines": ["With bow well strung he hurried to the span,", "But found the foe had crossed and formed their van."]}, {"id": "B7.2.5", "lines": ["Near to the bridge he saw their standard rise,", "Afrasiab’s hostile banner met his eyes."]}, {"id": "B7.2.6", "lines": ["The king had crossed the stream and led his train,", "At army’s head, arrayed upon the plain."]}, {"id": "B7.2.7", "lines": ["Then Rostam donned Babr-e Bayan for fight,", "And mounted raging Rakhsh in armor bright."]}, {"id": "B7.2.8", "lines": ["Then like a raging nahang, Rostam roared,", "And toward the Turanian battle ranks he poured."]}, {"id": "B7.2.9", "lines": ["When Afrasiab saw that giant frame,", "His chest and arms seemed forged for war and flame."]}, {"id": "B7.2.10", "lines": ["His heavy gorz upon his shoulder lay,", "A mass of iron darkening the day."]}, {"id": "B7.2.11", "lines": ["High upon Rakhsh his terrible form prevailed;", "Afrasiab’s heart within him shrank and failed."]}, {"id": "B7.2.12", "lines": ["Then Tus and Gudarz, masters of the spear,", "With Gorgin, Giv, and all the chiefs drew near."]}, {"id": "B7.2.13", "lines": ["Bahram and Barzin, Farhad joined the band,", "And Zangeh of Shavaran took his stand."]}, {"id": "B7.2.14", "lines": ["With Indian blades and lances set for blow,", "They stood like leopards watching for the foe."]}, {"id": "B7.2.15", "lines": ["Then Giv, like lion robbed of rightful prey,", "Rushed forward, sweeping enemies away."]}, {"id": "B7.2.16", "lines": ["With sword and gorz he struck the foremost crew,", "And bent tall warriors double as he flew."]}, {"id": "B7.2.17", "lines": ["Full many chiefs of Turan there were slain,", "And fortune turned against their vaunted reign."]}, {"id": "B7.2.18", "lines": ["The men of Chin recoiled before the blow,", "Their ranks fell back as fortune brought them low."]}, {"id": "B7.2.19", "lines": ["Afrasiab, astonished at the sight,", "Rode forth himself to join the rising fight."]}, {"id": "B7.2.20", "lines": ["But Rostam wheeled to meet him in his course,", "His lifted gorz prepared with crushing force."]}, {"id": "B7.2.21", "lines": ["With thigh pressed hard to Rakhsh, he drove ahead,", "And charged where Afrasiab’s warriors spread."]}, {"id": "B7.2.22", "lines": ["He drove to army’s front where battle ran,", "And broke the ranks that formed the Turan van."]}, {"id": "B7.2.23", "lines": ["Before the army Rostam gave a roar,", "A lion’s thunder shook them to the core."]}, {"id": "B7.2.24", "lines": ["Behind him Gudarz, Keshvad’s son, rode fast,", "In jowshan, steel-bound gorz for battle cast."]}, {"id": "B7.2.25", "lines": ["The Iranian riders followed in his train,", "With gorz and bow and arrows for the plain."]}, {"id": "B7.2.26", "lines": ["The eyes of Turan darkened at the sight,", "As Rostam raised his helm toward heaven’s height."]}, {"id": "B7.2.27", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab called Piran Viseh out:", "“O loyal chief whose wisdom none can doubt,"]}, {"id": "B7.2.28", "lines": ["You lion of Turan, battle-tried and free,", "Turn rein and clear this field of foes for me."]}, {"id": "B7.2.29", "lines": ["If you prevail, all Iran is your prize;", "An elephant’s frame, lion’s claws, your guise.”"]}, {"id": "B7.2.30", "lines": ["Then Piran swept like tempest to the plain,", "Ten thousand khanjar-bearing Turks his train."]}, {"id": "B7.2.31", "lines": ["Like fire he fell upon great Rostam’s line,", "Ten thousand fighting men behind his sign."]}, {"id": "B7.2.32", "lines": ["Foam rose upon great Rostam’s lips in ire;", "He seemed to rob the sun of all its fire."]}, {"id": "B7.2.33", "lines": ["He urged on Rakhsh and gave a thunderous call,", "Like seas that boil and surge beneath a squall."]}, {"id": "B7.2.34", "lines": ["He spurred on Rakhsh and smote the foremost rank,", "As chiefs beneath his flashing weapon sank."]}, {"id": "B7.2.35", "lines": ["With shield raised high, his Indian sword in hand,", "He drove against the foremost Turanian band."]}, {"id": "B7.2.36", "lines": ["Two portions of those famous men he slew,", "And through the shattered Turanian ranks he flew."]}, {"id": "B7.2.37", "lines": ["Afrasiab watched destruction widely spread,", "And to his famous chiefs he turned and said:"]}, {"id": "B7.2.38", "lines": ["“If this goes on until the close of day,", "Not one mounted warrior rides away."]}, {"id": "B7.2.39", "lines": ["We came as lions, trusting in our force;", "A field of foxes now obstructs our course."]}, {"id": "B7.2.40", "lines": ["This was no battle we were wise to choose;", "Withdraw at once before we further lose.”"]}, {"id": "B7.3.1", "lines": ["There was a warrior known by Pilsam’s name,", "Of royal blood and fierce in quest of fame."]}, {"id": "B7.3.2", "lines": ["His father Viseh, honored in his line,", "His brother Piran, famed in war’s design."]}, {"id": "B7.3.3", "lines": ["In Iran and Turan none could compare,", "Save Rostam, whose renown none else could share."]}, {"id": "B7.3.4", "lines": ["When Pilsam heard, his brow drew tight with ire,", "His anger kindled like a rising fire."]}, {"id": "B7.3.5", "lines": ["He hastened straight to Afrasiab’s side,", "His head with war, his heart with haste allied."]}, {"id": "B7.3.6", "lines": ["He cried: “Though young, I stand prepared for war,", "And seek the fame that valiant men adore."]}, {"id": "B7.3.7", "lines": ["What dust are Tus and Giv before my spear,", "Or Bahram, Zangeh, Guraza drawn near?"]}, {"id": "B7.3.8", "lines": ["At your command, like lion I shall go,", "And enter where Iran’s proud champions show."]}, {"id": "B7.3.9", "lines": ["I sever every chieftain’s head in fight,", "And veil their moon beneath the cloud of night."]}, {"id": "B7.3.10", "lines": ["Their famous crowns I drag through dusty ground,", "And sever heads wherever chiefs are found.”"]}, {"id": "B7.3.11", "lines": ["The king replied: “Renowned in war and name,", "Go forth victorious; return crowned with fame."]}, {"id": "B7.3.12", "lines": ["May this advance be fortunate and bright,", "May victory attend your homeward sight.”"]}, {"id": "B7.3.13", "lines": ["Then like a great tabira Pilsam roared,", "And like a storm upon the center poured."]}, {"id": "B7.3.14", "lines": ["He struck to right and left with gorz and blade,", "And split the ranks that stood against him arrayed."]}, {"id": "B7.3.15", "lines": ["Like wind he came to Gorgin in the fight,", "And roared there like a lion in his might."]}, {"id": "B7.3.16", "lines": ["He struck with tempered sword the charger’s head;", "The horse fell writhing where the wound now bled."]}, {"id": "B7.3.17", "lines": ["Then Gostaham, well proven in the fray,", "Sprang up like fire and rushed across the way."]}, {"id": "B7.3.18", "lines": ["He closed like a raging lion on his foe,", "And drove his spear with one tremendous blow."]}, {"id": "B7.3.19", "lines": ["He drove his spear at Pilsam’s belted side,", "But jowshan held; the thrust was turned aside."]}, {"id": "B7.3.20", "lines": ["The spear-shaft broke; he threw it far and wide,", "And faced his foe with nothing left to hide."]}, {"id": "B7.3.21", "lines": ["Then Pilsam raised his sword in flashing sweep,", "And struck his crest with force both hard and deep."]}, {"id": "B7.3.22", "lines": ["His helmet flew like ball across the plain,", "And Gostaham stood bareheaded in the strain."]}, {"id": "B7.3.23", "lines": ["His spear lay cast aside upon the ground,", "Unarmed he stood while battle raged around."]}, {"id": "B7.3.24", "lines": ["When Zangeh saw Gostaham’s plight from right,", "He spurred to aid him through the press of fight."]}, {"id": "B7.3.25", "lines": ["Pilsam, a warrior nahang, faced the foe,", "His Indian sword flashed ready for the blow."]}, {"id": "B7.3.26", "lines": ["He split the horse’s bargostvan in two,", "The charger crashed as severed mailwork flew."]}, {"id": "B7.3.27", "lines": ["The gallant Zangeh rose amid the sand,", "And bound his jowshan tight with steady hand."]}, {"id": "B7.3.28", "lines": ["On foot he fought that champion face to face,", "A hunting lion holding firm his place."]}, {"id": "B7.3.29", "lines": ["Dark clouds of dust rose thick around the ground,", "Till sight and sense in swirling dust were drowned."]}, {"id": "B7.3.30", "lines": ["Then Giv beheld how dim the field had grown,", "And roared like thunder crashing over stone."]}, {"id": "B7.3.31", "lines": ["He came, a lion raging in the fray,", "And forced a path through fighters in his way."]}, {"id": "B7.3.32", "lines": ["He joined the others pressing hard as one,", "And four closed round that chief beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B7.3.33", "lines": ["Yet Pilsam did not yield nor once give ground,", "But met them headlong where they closed him round."]}, {"id": "B7.3.34", "lines": ["Now sword, now heavy gorz, Pilsam struck on,", "Till strength from all four champions’ arms was gone."]}, {"id": "B7.3.35", "lines": ["Then Piran saw his brother in distress,", "And rushed from center through the battle’s press."]}, {"id": "B7.3.36", "lines": ["He came to aid him, shouting as he flew,", "Boiling and roaring, closer still he drew."]}, {"id": "B7.3.37", "lines": ["He cried: “O Giv, no honor can be won;", "What fame is gained when four assail but one?"]}, {"id": "B7.3.38", "lines": ["What glory lies in four against one man,", "A lion-hearted champion in the van?”"]}, {"id": "B7.3.39", "lines": ["He charged the chiefs; dark dust rose from the ground,", "And veiled the struggling warriors all around."]}, {"id": "B7.3.40", "lines": ["From the other side great Rostam charged the foe,", "A lion bursting through the battle flow."]}, {"id": "B7.3.41", "lines": ["With sword and heavy gorz of crushing weight,", "He broke Turan’s proud captains to their fate."]}, {"id": "B7.3.42", "lines": ["Then Pilsam fled before the dragon’s chase,", "For well he knew no man escaped its pace."]}, {"id": "B7.3.43", "lines": ["The chiefs of Iran pressed on every side,", "With heavy gorz where the Turanians died."]}, {"id": "B7.3.44", "lines": ["The slain lay heaped across the bloody floor,", "Their mound rose toward the moon in grisly store."]}, {"id": "B7.3.45", "lines": ["Afrasiab looked on and sighed in dread,", "His hope grown thin at all that lay there dead."]}, {"id": "B7.3.46", "lines": ["“Where now is Alkus, famed in battle’s course,", "Who sought the lions out with fearless force?"]}, {"id": "B7.3.47", "lines": ["When drunk, you called for Giv to test your claim,", "And set your battle against Rostam’s name."]}, {"id": "B7.3.48", "lines": ["You spoke of Iran through each drunken hour;", "Where now your fire and wind, your vaunted power?”"]}, {"id": "B7.3.49", "lines": ["When Alkus heard what Turan’s king had said,", "He rose at once, his heart toward battle led."]}, {"id": "B7.3.50", "lines": ["He mounted shabrang, blood upon his hand,", "And spurred the dark horse toward the royal stand."]}, {"id": "B7.3.51", "lines": ["He reached the army’s center in his course,", "And came before Afrasiab in force."]}, {"id": "B7.3.52", "lines": ["He cried: “The male lion stands prepared to fight,", "A waiting beast that longs to prove his might."]}, {"id": "B7.3.53", "lines": ["Command me now, and I will ride alone,", "And seize that field and claim it as my own.”"]}, {"id": "B7.3.54", "lines": ["The monarch said: “Choose captains for the ride,”", "And Alkus turned to choose them from his side."]}, {"id": "B7.3.55", "lines": ["More than a thousand warriors joined his train,", "And rode behind him toward the battle plain."]}, {"id": "B7.3.56", "lines": ["Their lances glittered as they rode to fight,", "Like Nahid and Hormoz in heaven’s height."]}, {"id": "B7.3.57", "lines": ["As Alkus neared the Iranian array,", "His dust veiled sun and moon in ashen gray."]}, {"id": "B7.3.58", "lines": ["Zavareh rode and gave a challenge loud,", "And Alkus wheeled toward him through the crowd."]}, {"id": "B7.3.59", "lines": ["He thought him Rostam, born of Nariman’s line,", "So strongly bore he that heroic sign."]}, {"id": "B7.3.60", "lines": ["Zavareh charged, a lion in the fight,", "And thrust his lance with all his warrior might."]}, {"id": "B7.3.61", "lines": ["The spear broke into two; Zavareh feared", "The warrior whose deadly strength appeared."]}, {"id": "B7.3.62", "lines": ["He drew his sword; their flashing blades rang loud,", "While dust enclosed them like a rising cloud."]}, {"id": "B7.3.63", "lines": ["Their swords broke short; then to gorz both men sped,", "And reached at once for iron blows instead."]}, {"id": "B7.3.64", "lines": ["Then Alkus swung his gorz with mountain might,", "And Zavareh’s strength deserted him outright."]}, {"id": "B7.3.65", "lines": ["Zavareh fell senseless beneath the blow,", "And lay as one laid low by sudden woe."]}, {"id": "B7.3.66", "lines": ["Alkus dismounted, hurrying to kill,", "To cut Zavareh’s head as he lay still."]}, {"id": "B7.3.67", "lines": ["When Rostam saw his brother nearly dead,", "Like fire he rushed to where Zavareh bled."]}, {"id": "B7.3.68", "lines": ["He shouted once; the plain itself seemed weak,", "And swords grew dull beneath that thunderous shriek."]}, {"id": "B7.3.69", "lines": ["At Rostam’s voice, his terror showed within;", "His beating heart seemed visible through skin."]}, {"id": "B7.3.70", "lines": ["Swift as the wind he mounted, seized by dread,", "His former courage from his spirit fled."]}, {"id": "B7.3.71", "lines": ["Then Rostam cried: “You never knew till now", "The lion’s claws; that ignorance crowned your brow.”"]}, {"id": "B7.3.72", "lines": ["While bloodied, bruised Zavareh gained his seat,", "And mounted once again despite defeat,"]}, {"id": "B7.3.73", "lines": ["Alkus met Rostam under death’s dark cloud;", "Upon his saddle lay a Tuzi shroud."]}, {"id": "B7.3.74", "lines": ["He thrust his spear at Rostam’s armored waist,", "But found the jowshan sturdy, tightly laced."]}, {"id": "B7.3.75", "lines": ["Then Rostam drove his spear into his chest,", "Liver-blood poured down helmet, plume, and crest."]}, {"id": "B7.3.76", "lines": ["He raised him from the saddle on the spear,", "While both great armies stared in wonder near."]}, {"id": "B7.3.77", "lines": ["Then Rostam cast him downward from that height,", "A mountain mass that filled Turan with fright."]}, {"id": "B7.3.78", "lines": ["The seven lion-warriors drew each blade,", "And charged together, one fierce line arrayed."]}, {"id": "B7.3.79", "lines": ["Their gallant captains followed, close and massed,", "Great gorz on shoulders, ordered as they passed."]}, {"id": "B7.3.80", "lines": ["Afrasiab beheld them, struck with dread,", "Then turned toward all his chiefs and sternly said:"]}, {"id": "B7.3.81", "lines": ["“The foe has mastered you!” Afrasiab cried,", "“Their battle-strength has broken all your pride."]}, {"id": "B7.3.82", "lines": ["Now strive, and bring a leopard’s heart to bear;", "Each man consider vengeance with due care.”"]}, {"id": "B7.3.83", "lines": ["His soldiers heard and rushed against the foe,", "And all at once surged forward in a row."]}, {"id": "B7.3.84", "lines": ["Then Rostam with the seven charged as one,", "And broke their ranks beneath the rising sun."]}, {"id": "B7.3.85", "lines": ["They broke the Turanian ranks in battle’s flood,", "Till head from foot was lost amid the blood."]}, {"id": "B7.3.86", "lines": ["So many fell beneath the furious blows,", "From end to end the earth like ruby glows."]}, {"id": "B7.3.87", "lines": ["There elephants lay felled across the ground,", "Some heads still joined, some severed all around."]}, {"id": "B7.3.88", "lines": ["The field with corpses, severed heads was spread,", "No road remained for troops among the dead."]}, {"id": "B7.4.1", "lines": ["Afrasiab turned rein before the sight,", "And fled like a black cloud across the night."]}, {"id": "B7.4.2", "lines": ["Behind him Rostam urged on Rakhsh, his steed:", "“Now lag not, faithful friend, but match my need."]}, {"id": "B7.4.3", "lines": ["Upon you I shall strike the king who flies,", "And spill his blood before our watching eyes."]}, {"id": "B7.4.4", "lines": ["His blood shall make the stones like coral glow,", "And stain the plain wherever he may go.”"]}, {"id": "B7.4.5", "lines": ["The fiery steed sped on with such a bound,", "It seemed new wings had raised him from the ground."]}, {"id": "B7.4.6", "lines": ["Then Rostam loosed the kamand from its ring,", "And cast it forth to bind the fleeing king."]}, {"id": "B7.4.7", "lines": ["It struck his helmet as the kamand sped;", "He ducked beneath it and escaped ahead."]}, {"id": "B7.4.8", "lines": ["Afrasiab bent low and slipped the snare,", "His wind-foot charger sprang like fire through air."]}, {"id": "B7.4.9", "lines": ["He fled, dry-mouthed, his body drenched in sweat,", "And drove his charger onward faster yet."]}, {"id": "B7.4.10", "lines": ["Behind, his riders streamed in broken flight,", "Their weapons shattered, spirits stripped of might."]}, {"id": "B7.4.11", "lines": ["Like wind he crossed the water, swift and sore,", "And gained in haste the safety of the shore."]}, {"id": "B7.4.12", "lines": ["Two-thirds of all his army now lay slain;", "He sought sweet nectar, poison was his gain."]}, {"id": "B7.4.13", "lines": ["Of all the Turks who went to fight and slay,", "Two-thirds returned not to their tents that day."]}, {"id": "B7.4.14", "lines": ["Some slain, some wounded, others captive lay,", "Held fast by Iran when the field gave way."]}, {"id": "B7.4.15", "lines": ["Great treasure, throne and crown lay in the field,", "With golden girdles, spoils the foe must yield."]}, {"id": "B7.4.16", "lines": ["There sword and khaftan, helm and jewels gleamed,", "Amid the wealth that from the battle streamed."]}, {"id": "B7.4.17", "lines": ["Fine horses stood in golden harness dressed,", "And swords in golden sheaths lay with the rest."]}, {"id": "B7.4.18", "lines": ["The men of Iran gathered every prize,", "And joy shone clear within the victors’ eyes."]}, {"id": "B7.4.19", "lines": ["They stripped no corpse that lay upon the ground,", "Nor searched the fallen bodies lying round."]}, {"id": "B7.4.20", "lines": ["With horses, arms, and captured gear they rode", "Once more toward the hunt, with heavy load."]}, {"id": "B7.4.21", "lines": ["They sent a swift report when all was done,", "Of battle and the hunting they had won:"]}, {"id": "B7.4.22", "lines": ["“No chief of Iran fell beneath the blade;", "Not one among our warriors there was laid."]}, {"id": "B7.4.23", "lines": ["Zavareh only tumbled from his steed,", "Then rose again, restored to strength and speed.”"]}, {"id": "B7.4.24", "lines": ["For two full weeks the Pahlevans remained,", "Upon the blessed plain where joy had reigned."]}, {"id": "B7.4.25", "lines": ["At third week’s dawn they reached the royal hall,", "And saw the fortunate crowned king of all."]}, {"id": "B7.4.26", "lines": ["Such is the transient house in which we dwell;", "One finds his ease, another fares not well."]}, {"id": "B7.4.27", "lines": ["The day moves over both through joy and woe;", "Why should the wise grieve over what must go?"]}, {"id": "B7.4.28", "lines": ["The words of this old tale have reached their end;", "Thus far the ancient telling does extend."]}]}, {"id": "B8", "title": "The Tragedy of Rostam & Sohrab", "summary": "25 sections · 1,421 couplets", "path": "/poem/b8/", "couplets": [{"id": "B8.1.1", "lines": ["Now hear the tale of Sohrab, Rostam’s son;", "You heard the rest; this grief has now begun."]}, {"id": "B8.1.2", "lines": ["This tale is steeped in tears from first to last,", "And tender hearts blame Rostam for the past."]}, {"id": "B8.1.3", "lines": ["A violent wind may shake a citron free,", "Unripe, and cast it broken from the tree."]}, {"id": "B8.1.4", "lines": ["Should I call this injustice, harsh and blind,", "Or deem it skilled; or skill-less in its kind?"]}, {"id": "B8.1.5", "lines": ["If death is justice, what then counts as wrong?", "Why cry against what justice brings along?"]}, {"id": "B8.1.6", "lines": ["The spirit cannot pierce the hidden Veil,", "Beyond it, mortal sight and pathways fail."]}, {"id": "B8.1.7", "lines": ["We all must reach the mystery’s closed door,", "Yet none has seen it open; none knows more."]}, {"id": "B8.1.8", "lines": ["Perhaps another dwelling waits in peace,", "Where those who leave this world may find release."]}, {"id": "B8.1.9", "lines": ["When fire is kindled, it is born to burn;", "No cause for wonder lies in such a turn."]}, {"id": "B8.1.10", "lines": ["A tender branch may spring from ancient root,", "Yet death can burn the young before its fruit."]}, {"id": "B8.1.11", "lines": ["To young and old alike death’s flame is dire;", "It spares no age before consuming fire."]}, {"id": "B8.1.12", "lines": ["Why should the young give all their hearts to cheer,", "When death can strike before old age draws near?"]}, {"id": "B8.1.13", "lines": ["When Death draws tight the girth on Fortune’s steed,", "This is no place to linger when decreed."]}, {"id": "B8.1.14", "lines": ["Know this is justice, not a wrongful deed;", "Where justice comes, lament has no true need."]}, {"id": "B8.1.15", "lines": ["Before death’s hand, both youth and age are one;", "Keep faith and hold it till your course is done."]}, {"id": "B8.1.16", "lines": ["If faith’s true treasure fills the inward breast,", "A servant keeps his tongue and serves Him best."]}, {"id": "B8.1.17", "lines": ["Make worship now the labor of your breath,", "Prepare in humble service for your death."]}, {"id": "B8.1.18", "lines": ["You cannot know what Yazdan veils from sight,", "Unless a Div has led your soul from right."]}, {"id": "B8.1.19", "lines": ["Strive here for goodness while your days remain,", "That after death its harvest you may gain."]}, {"id": "B8.1.20", "lines": ["Now hear Sohrab’s great battle and his strife,", "And how he met the man who gave him life."]}, {"id": "B8.2.1", "lines": ["I tell what ancient singers once made known,", "From tales preserved when earlier ages shone."]}, {"id": "B8.2.2", "lines": ["The Mobad tells: at dawn, with troubled heart,", "Rostam arose to hunt and to depart."]}, {"id": "B8.2.3", "lines": ["He girt himself, filled high his arrow case,", "Then mounted Rakhsh and turned him toward the chase."]}, {"id": "B8.2.4", "lines": ["Toward Turan’s marches like a lion he rode,", "Seeking the prey that roamed beyond the road."]}, {"id": "B8.2.5", "lines": ["Near Turan’s marches Gur-e-Khar were found,", "In grazing herds they wandered on the ground."]}, {"id": "B8.2.6", "lines": ["His face grew bright; a sudden joy took hold,", "He laughed as Rakhsh sprang forward fierce and bold."]}, {"id": "B8.2.7", "lines": ["With bow and arrow, gorz and swift kamand,", "He struck the fleeing quarry through the land."]}, {"id": "B8.2.8", "lines": ["From brush and thorn, he built a blazing fire,", "And chose a tree to serve him as a spire."]}, {"id": "B8.2.9", "lines": ["A male Gur-e-Khar upon the spit he laid;", "Like one bird’s feather in his hand it weighed."]}, {"id": "B8.2.10", "lines": ["When roasted well, he tore the flesh away,", "And feasted deeply on the hunter’s prey."]}, {"id": "B8.2.11", "lines": ["He cracked the bones and drew the marrow sweet,", "Until the hunter’s banquet was complete."]}, {"id": "B8.2.12", "lines": ["When hunger passed, he stretched himself to rest,", "And sleep soon settled deeply in his breast."]}, {"id": "B8.2.13", "lines": ["Meanwhile proud Rakhsh roamed freely without rein,", "And grazed at will across the grassy plain."]}, {"id": "B8.2.14", "lines": ["Then seven or eight Turanian riders found", "The traces of his hooves upon the ground."]}, {"id": "B8.2.15", "lines": ["They followed them along the riverside,", "And saw the stallion grazing far and wide."]}, {"id": "B8.2.16", "lines": ["They formed a ring and cast their kamands fast,", "To bind the steed before the chance had passed."]}, {"id": "B8.2.17", "lines": ["But Rakhsh perceived their purpose, fierce and strong,", "And roared just like a lion at the throng."]}, {"id": "B8.2.18", "lines": ["He crushed two riders underneath his tread,", "And tore a third man’s head away as dead."]}, {"id": "B8.2.19", "lines": ["Three men lay slain, yet none could make him yield,", "Nor force the raging stallion from the field."]}, {"id": "B8.2.20", "lines": ["At last their kamands flew from every side,", "And caught him struggling in his strength and pride."]}, {"id": "B8.2.21", "lines": ["They bound him fast and led him toward the town,", "Each claiming his own share in their renown."]}, {"id": "B8.2.22", "lines": ["When Rostam woke, his first thought was his steed;", "He rose and sought for Rakhsh with urgent speed."]}, {"id": "B8.2.23", "lines": ["He searched the meadow, but no Rakhsh could find,", "And sorrow cast its darkness on his mind."]}, {"id": "B8.2.24", "lines": ["His heart grew heavy, parted from his men,", "And grief drove him toward Samangan again."]}, {"id": "B8.2.25", "lines": ["“Where shall I wander, shamed and on my feet?", "What path can lead me where my horse may meet?"]}, {"id": "B8.2.26", "lines": ["Without my steed, how shall I cross the sand,", "Or face the battle-seekers of this land?"]}, {"id": "B8.2.27", "lines": ["My quiver, gorz, my helmet and my blade,", "Babr-e Bayan cannot give Rakhsh’s aid."]}, {"id": "B8.2.28", "lines": ["The Turks will say: ‘Who stole Tahamtan’s steed?", "He slept as dead, and paid no watchful heed.’"]}, {"id": "B8.2.29", "lines": ["Now helpless I must bear this grief and pain,", "Yet gird my arms, and seek what tracks remain.”"]}, {"id": "B8.2.30", "lines": ["He took the road toward Samangan’s plain,", "His body weary, heart with sorrow’s strain."]}, {"id": "B8.3.1", "lines": ["When Rostam neared Samangan’s guarded gate,", "The king and nobles heard and would not wait."]}, {"id": "B8.3.2", "lines": ["“Great Rostam comes on foot; his Rakhsh has strayed,", "Lost at the hunting-ground where once he stayed.”"]}, {"id": "B8.3.3", "lines": ["The nobles, each in ceremonial array,", "Went forth to meet him on the open way."]}, {"id": "B8.3.4", "lines": ["As all beheld him, wonder filled each one:", "“Is this great Rostam, or the rising sun?”"]}, {"id": "B8.3.5", "lines": ["On foot the king came forth with eager pace;", "His gathered army filled the meeting-place."]}, {"id": "B8.3.6", "lines": ["He bowed and said: “What foe has barred your path?", "Who dared to test himself against your wrath?"]}, {"id": "B8.3.7", "lines": ["All Samangan wishes you success;", "Each man obeys your word without protest."]}, {"id": "B8.3.8", "lines": ["Our wealth and bodies answer your command;", "Our nobles’ hearts and lives are in your hand.”"]}, {"id": "B8.3.9", "lines": ["Then Rostam weighed the words the monarch said,", "And dark suspicion from his spirit fled."]}, {"id": "B8.3.10", "lines": ["“Within those fields my Rakhsh was roaming free;", "No bridle, halter bound my steed to me."]}, {"id": "B8.3.11", "lines": ["From stream and reeds his hoofmarks point this way;", "Each print has led me onward through the day."]}, {"id": "B8.3.12", "lines": ["Restore him, and my thanks shall be your due;", "Rich gifts will mark the service done by you."]}, {"id": "B8.3.13", "lines": ["But if no trace of Rakhsh should come to light,", "Your chiefs shall lose their heads before my sight.”"]}, {"id": "B8.3.14", "lines": ["The king replied: “No man of noble name", "Would dare to bring Tahamtan such a shame."]}, {"id": "B8.3.15", "lines": ["Be now my guest; set haste and wrath aside;", "All shall be ordered as you may decide."]}, {"id": "B8.3.16", "lines": ["Tonight with wine we shall revive the heart,", "And let these anxious thoughts awhile depart."]}, {"id": "B8.3.17", "lines": ["Harsh words and anger never serve the goal;", "With gentleness, the serpent leaves its hole."]}, {"id": "B8.3.18", "lines": ["Your Rakhsh is famed across the world around;", "A steed so known must quickly now be found."]}, {"id": "B8.3.19", "lines": ["We shall seek Rakhsh and follow every lead;", "Rest easy; we shall soon restore your steed.”"]}, {"id": "B8.3.20", "lines": ["At this, the burden left Tahamtan’s mind,", "His anxious thoughts at last were left behind."]}, {"id": "B8.3.21", "lines": ["He judged the king’s own house the proper place,", "And gladly went beside him at his pace."]}, {"id": "B8.3.22", "lines": ["The king gave Rostam place upon the seat,", "Then served him humbly, standing at his feet."]}, {"id": "B8.3.23", "lines": ["He called the chiefs of city and array,", "And drove the ill-disposed from sight away."]}, {"id": "B8.3.24", "lines": ["He bade the cooks prepare the banquet fare,", "And spread rich tables for the chiefs to share."]}, {"id": "B8.3.25", "lines": ["The rud-players gathered, music filled the room,", "So Tahamtan might cast away his gloom."]}, {"id": "B8.3.26", "lines": ["Wine flowed; the rud gave music to the night,", "Dark-eyed Taraz beauties, rose-cheeked, bright."]}, {"id": "B8.3.27", "lines": ["At last, when wine had drawn him toward repose,", "He tired of sitting and at once arose."]}, {"id": "B8.3.28", "lines": ["With musk and rosewater they made his bed,", "A resting-place for Rostam softly spread."]}, {"id": "B8.4.1", "lines": ["At deep of night, while morning star rode high,", "A secret murmur moved beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B8.4.2", "lines": ["The chamber door swung softly and then turned,", "And amber-scented candlelight there burned."]}, {"id": "B8.4.3", "lines": ["A handmaid entered, stately, calm, and bright,", "And bore the perfumed candle through the night."]}, {"id": "B8.4.4", "lines": ["Behind her came a maiden moon-faced, fair,", "Sun-bright, with color, fragrance in the air."]}, {"id": "B8.4.5", "lines": ["Her brows were bows; her dark hair streamed behind,", "Like coils of kamand in the night entwined."]}, {"id": "B8.4.6", "lines": ["Tall as a cypress, straight in form and height,", "She entered softly in the chamber light."]}, {"id": "B8.4.7", "lines": ["Her cheeks like Yemeni agate burned,", "Her mouth as narrow as a heart that yearned."]}, {"id": "B8.4.8", "lines": ["Her soul was wisdom, spirit filled her frame;", "No earthly dust seemed mingled with her flame."]}, {"id": "B8.4.9", "lines": ["Brave Rostam marveled at the wondrous sight,", "Blessed Yazdan, then addressed her in the night:"]}, {"id": "B8.4.10", "lines": ["“Who are you, coming here while others sleep?", "What do you seek, what purpose do you keep?”"]}, {"id": "B8.4.11", "lines": ["She said: “Tahmineh is the name I bear;", "Grief split my heart in two and left it bare."]}, {"id": "B8.4.12", "lines": ["I am the daughter of Samangan’s king,", "From royal blood my birth and lineage spring."]}, {"id": "B8.4.13", "lines": ["From lion and from leopard stock I trace", "My blood; among crowned kings few match my grace."]}, {"id": "B8.4.14", "lines": ["No man beyond the curtain saw my face,", "Nor heard my voice outside its guarded place."]}, {"id": "B8.4.15", "lines": ["Yet I have heard your story far and wide,", "Like legend carried onward with the tide."]}, {"id": "B8.4.16", "lines": ["How Div and lion, leopard, nahang too,", "Have never raised a breath of fear in you."]}, {"id": "B8.4.17", "lines": ["How through black night alone to Turan you ride,", "And roam its marches, sleep cast all aside."]}, {"id": "B8.4.18", "lines": ["How lone you roast the Gur-e-Khar by fire,", "And make the air weep when you draw in ire."]}, {"id": "B8.4.19", "lines": ["The lion’s heart is torn beneath your blow;", "The leopard’s hide is ripped from head to toe."]}, {"id": "B8.4.20", "lines": ["The eagle, seeing your drawn sword flash bright,", "Forsakes its prey and turns away in flight."]}, {"id": "B8.4.21", "lines": ["The lion bears the scar your kamand made,", "Clouds rain down blood when your spear is displayed."]}, {"id": "B8.4.22", "lines": ["These tales I heard; I bit my lip in pain,", "And longed to see your shoulders, chest, and mane."]}, {"id": "B8.4.23", "lines": ["Now Yazdan brought your destined path this way,", "And led you into Samangan today."]}, {"id": "B8.4.24", "lines": ["If you desire me, I am yours tonight;", "I choose you freely, with my heart alight."]}, {"id": "B8.4.25", "lines": ["No other man shall ever see my face;", "For you alone I leave my guarded place."]}, {"id": "B8.4.26", "lines": ["For love of you has driven reason hence;", "Desire has overcome my guarded sense."]}, {"id": "B8.4.27", "lines": ["Perhaps the Maker may decree for me", "A son of yours within my arms to see."]}, {"id": "B8.4.28", "lines": ["May he be like you, strong of heart and limb;", "May Saturn and the Sun grant shares to him."]}, {"id": "B8.4.29", "lines": ["Besides, I shall restore your Rakhsh to you,", "And lay Samangan at your feet as due.”"]}, {"id": "B8.4.30", "lines": ["The moon-faced maiden’s words at last were done,", "And Tahamtan had heard them one by one."]}, {"id": "B8.4.31", "lines": ["Great Rostam saw the pari-faced one shine,", "And wisdom in her every word and line."]}, {"id": "B8.4.32", "lines": ["She gave him hope that Rakhsh would soon be found,", "And all her purpose seemed both good and sound."]}, {"id": "B8.4.33", "lines": ["He called a Mobad, reverent and skilled,", "And sent him to the king, as custom willed."]}, {"id": "B8.4.34", "lines": ["“Ask for the maiden by the honored rite,", "And make this union lawful in his sight.”"]}, {"id": "B8.4.35", "lines": ["The king, a noble cypress, heard with cheer,", "And welcomed Rostam’s bond with heart sincere."]}, {"id": "B8.4.36", "lines": ["With Tahmineh’s consent the pact was made,", "By rite and judgment, faithfully arrayed."]}, {"id": "B8.4.37", "lines": ["He gave his daughter by the honored rite,", "And joined her to the Pahlevan that night."]}, {"id": "B8.4.38", "lines": ["The people all rejoiced on every side,", "And blessed the Pahlevan and his new bride."]}, {"id": "B8.4.39", "lines": ["“May this new moon bring fortune where you tread;", "May every ill-wisher lose his head.”"]}, {"id": "B8.4.40", "lines": ["In secret Tahmineh shared Rostam’s place,", "And long the dark night held them in embrace."]}, {"id": "B8.4.41", "lines": ["A famous mohreh from his arm he drew,", "And placed the token in Tahmineh’s view."]}, {"id": "B8.4.42", "lines": ["“If you should bear a daughter, let it lie", "Sewn in her hair beneath a fortunate sky."]}, {"id": "B8.4.43", "lines": ["But if the stars should grant to you a son,", "Bind this, his father’s sign, when life’s begun."]}, {"id": "B8.4.44", "lines": ["In stature he shall match great Sahm’s own line,", "With noble heart and manly strength shall shine."]}, {"id": "B8.4.45", "lines": ["He shall bring down the eagle from the height,", "Nor shall the blazing sun oppress his sight.”"]}, {"id": "B8.4.46", "lines": ["Through that long night they spoke of every theme,", "While darkness held the palace like a dream."]}, {"id": "B8.4.47", "lines": ["Then from the east the shining sun arose,", "And spread its light where earth in beauty glows."]}, {"id": "B8.4.48", "lines": ["He clasped her, kissed her eyes and kissed her head,", "And spoke his last farewells before he sped."]}, {"id": "B8.4.49", "lines": ["Tahmineh left him weeping at the break,", "With grief and pain her only path to take."]}, {"id": "B8.4.50", "lines": ["The king came in and asked how he had slept,", "And whether peace his resting chamber kept."]}, {"id": "B8.4.51", "lines": ["Then word was brought that Rakhsh at last was found;", "Rostam stroked him and strapped the saddle round."]}, {"id": "B8.4.52", "lines": ["He thanked kind Yazdan, giver of the good,", "For Rakhsh restored before him where he stood."]}, {"id": "B8.4.53", "lines": ["Like wind he rode toward Iran, deep in thought", "On everything the night before had wrought."]}, {"id": "B8.4.54", "lines": ["He turned toward Zabulistan and spurred,", "And told no man what he had seen or heard."]}, {"id": "B8.5.1", "lines": ["At nine months’ end, a moon-bright child appeared,", "And all Samangan’s royal house was cheered."]}, {"id": "B8.5.2", "lines": ["He seemed the very form that Rostam bore,", "Like Sahm or Nariman in days before."]}, {"id": "B8.5.3", "lines": ["The infant smiled, his face grew fresh and bright,", "Tahmineh named him Sohrab with delight."]}, {"id": "B8.5.4", "lines": ["Within a month he seemed a year in height,", "His chest like Rostam’s, broad with growing might."]}, {"id": "B8.5.5", "lines": ["At three he trained with weapons of the field,", "At five a lion’s heart was there, revealed."]}, {"id": "B8.5.6", "lines": ["At ten no warrior in that land would try", "To test him armed beneath the open sky."]}, {"id": "B8.5.7", "lines": ["One day he came before his mother’s place,", "And spoke with boldness written in his face:"]}, {"id": "B8.5.8", "lines": ["“Since none among my fellows match my height,", "My head seems raised beyond the heavens’ sight."]}, {"id": "B8.5.9", "lines": ["Tell me the seed and lineage that I bear,", "And name the father whose great blood I share."]}, {"id": "B8.5.10", "lines": ["What shall I say when others ask of me?", "Speak plainly now and hide no mystery."]}, {"id": "B8.5.11", "lines": ["And if you keep this hidden from my sight,", "You shall not live to see another night.”"]}, {"id": "B8.5.12", "lines": ["His mother said: “Then hear me and rejoice;", "Be not too rash, but listen to my voice."]}, {"id": "B8.5.13", "lines": ["Your father is great Rostam, battle-tried,", "The Piltan whose renown spreads far and wide."]}, {"id": "B8.5.14", "lines": ["From Dastan, Sahm, and Nariman you spring,", "Renowned stock fit to stand beside a king."]}, {"id": "B8.5.15", "lines": ["Since the World-Creator set the world in frame,", "No rider yet has matched your father’s fame."]}, {"id": "B8.5.16", "lines": ["No peer to Sahm was known beneath the sky;", "The sphere itself dared not approach so high.”"]}, {"id": "B8.5.17", "lines": ["She brought the letter Rostam sent of old,", "Three rubies and three heavy bags of gold."]}, {"id": "B8.5.18", "lines": ["“At birth your father gave these gifts to you,", "With words that proved your noble lineage true."]}, {"id": "B8.5.19", "lines": ["Guard these; they prove the lineage you claim,", "And show that Rostam is your father’s name.”"]}, {"id": "B8.5.20", "lines": ["Then Tahmineh said low: “Now heed me well;", "There is one danger I must also tell."]}, {"id": "B8.5.21", "lines": ["Let Afrasiab never learn this thing,", "From first to last, nor hear whose son you spring."]}, {"id": "B8.5.22", "lines": ["He is your father’s foe, renowned and feared;", "All Turan mourns where Rostam has appeared."]}, {"id": "B8.5.23", "lines": ["If wrath for Rostam turns against the son,", "He may destroy you for what he has done."]}, {"id": "B8.5.24", "lines": ["And if your father, from these signs, should hear", "You stand among the champions without peer,"]}, {"id": "B8.5.25", "lines": ["He will demand you, call you to his side,", "And leave your mother wounded when you ride.”"]}, {"id": "B8.5.26", "lines": ["Sohrab replied: “No secret can be sealed;", "Before the world, the truth will stand revealed."]}, {"id": "B8.5.27", "lines": ["Old warriors tell of Rostam, glorified;", "Why should my noble lineage be denied?"]}, {"id": "B8.5.28", "lines": ["I gather from the warlike Turks a force", "So vast no power can turn aside its course."]}, {"id": "B8.5.29", "lines": ["I cast Kay Kavus from Iran’s high seat,", "And drive out Tus before my army’s feet."]}, {"id": "B8.5.30", "lines": ["Gorgin and Gudarz, Giv I shall bring low;", "Gostaham, Nohzar’s son, and Bahram feel the blow."]}, {"id": "B8.5.31", "lines": ["I give him gorz and horse, the royal crown,", "Then seat him where Kay Kavus is cast down."]}, {"id": "B8.5.32", "lines": ["Then from Iran to Turan I shall ride,", "And face Afrasiab in all his pride."]}, {"id": "B8.5.33", "lines": ["I seize Afrasiab’s royal seat in fight,", "And raise my spearpoint past the sun in height."]}, {"id": "B8.5.34", "lines": ["I fight like lion till I win renown,", "And set on you Iran’s imperial crown."]}, {"id": "B8.5.35", "lines": ["If Rostam is the father, I the son,", "No crowned king shall remain when this is done."]}, {"id": "B8.5.36", "lines": ["When sun and moon command the arching sky,", "Why should a lesser star raise crown on high?”"]}, {"id": "B8.6.1", "lines": ["He said: “You soon shall see what I can do,", "But first a steed must bear me swift and true."]}, {"id": "B8.6.2", "lines": ["With iron hoof that shatters hardest stone,", "A powerful charger, fully strong and grown,"]}, {"id": "B8.6.3", "lines": ["Strong as forged steel, yet swift through open sky,", "Like fish through sea, like deer that flashes by."]}, {"id": "B8.6.4", "lines": ["My mighty frame, my gorz, my gopal all,", "Demand a steed that will not bend or fall."]}, {"id": "B8.6.5", "lines": ["A warrior must ride to meet his foe;", "On foot, no champion seeks the battle’s blow.”"]}, {"id": "B8.6.6", "lines": ["His mother heard and raised her thoughtful head,", "And toward the shining sun her gaze was led."]}, {"id": "B8.6.7", "lines": ["From mountain, hill, and plain the herdsmen came,", "And drove all horse herds in like smoke and flame."]}, {"id": "B8.6.8", "lines": ["They filled the city, brought from every side,", "That Sohrab choose a steed for war to ride."]}, {"id": "B8.6.9", "lines": ["When one appeared thick-necked and strong of frame,", "Sohrab stepped forth to put its strength to shame."]}, {"id": "B8.6.10", "lines": ["He cast the leather kamand round its neck,", "Then set his hand its gathered strength to check."]}, {"id": "B8.6.11", "lines": ["He pressed its back until its belly lay", "Upon the earth; so did its strength give way."]}, {"id": "B8.6.12", "lines": ["Thus one by one he tried the strongest breed,", "And many broke beneath his mighty deed."]}, {"id": "B8.6.13", "lines": ["None proved a steed his battle weight could take;", "And grief began within the youth to wake."]}, {"id": "B8.6.14", "lines": ["A warrior from the gathering then drew near,", "And spoke to Sohrab words for all to hear:"]}, {"id": "B8.6.15", "lines": ["“I have a young colt of noble Rakhsh’s strain,", "Lion-strong and wind-swift across the plain."]}, {"id": "B8.6.16", "lines": ["A mighty bay, he speeds across terrain,", "Like bird on wing before the driving rain."]}, {"id": "B8.6.17", "lines": ["No horse has matched his strength or rushing pace,", "No rider yet has found his equal’s trace."]}, {"id": "B8.6.18", "lines": ["His hoof makes ancient fish-bull weary below;", "Mountain-bodied, he leaps like lightning’s glow."]}, {"id": "B8.6.19", "lines": ["On mountain paths he flies as ravens fly,", "Through sea like waterbird he passes by."]}, {"id": "B8.6.20", "lines": ["Across the plain he shoots as arrow sped,", "And overtakes the foe who rides ahead.”"]}, {"id": "B8.6.21", "lines": ["Sohrab laughed; his eager face grew bright,", "His former troubled mood dissolved in light."]}, {"id": "B8.6.22", "lines": ["At once they brought the fine-hued charger near,", "And Sohrab watched its noble form appear."]}, {"id": "B8.6.23", "lines": ["He tested him; the charger bore the strain,", "And proved himself fit for the battle plain."]}, {"id": "B8.6.24", "lines": ["He stroked his neck and girthed the saddle fast,", "Then mounted, seated like a mountain vast."]}, {"id": "B8.6.25", "lines": ["Like Bistoon’s peak he towered on the field,", "And raised a column-spear no man could wield."]}, {"id": "B8.6.26", "lines": ["He said: “Now such a noble steed is mine,", "My road to battle opens by design."]}, {"id": "B8.6.27", "lines": ["I make Kay Kavus’s bright day dark with gloom,", "And drive his royal glory toward its doom.”"]}, {"id": "B8.6.28", "lines": ["He turned for home and readied warlike gear,", "His purpose set on Iran, sharp and clear."]}, {"id": "B8.6.29", "lines": ["From every side the noble-born drew near,", "Sword-bearing warriors, hearts devoid of fear."]}, {"id": "B8.6.30", "lines": ["He went before his grandfather and said,", "“Grant leave and aid for all the road ahead."]}, {"id": "B8.6.31", "lines": ["I long to ride to Iran without delay,", "And see my blessed father there one day.”"]}, {"id": "B8.6.32", "lines": ["The king perceived the purpose in his mind,", "And opened all his stores of every kind."]}, {"id": "B8.6.33", "lines": ["He gave him crown and throne, the royal gear,", "A cap and girdle worthy of a peer."]}, {"id": "B8.6.34", "lines": ["With horses, camels, gold and jewels rare,", "And ample stores for battle everywhere."]}, {"id": "B8.6.35", "lines": ["He gave a battle khaftan, weapons bright,", "And marveled at the milk-fed warrior’s might."]}, {"id": "B8.6.36", "lines": ["His open hand supplied what war could need,", "And royal stores equipped him for the deed."]}, {"id": "B8.7.1", "lines": ["Then news of Sohrab’s enterprise was spread,", "Till Afrasiab heard what men had said."]}, {"id": "B8.7.2", "lines": ["Around the youth a mighty army grew,", "Like cypress in a garden, tall to view."]}, {"id": "B8.7.3", "lines": ["Though milk’s faint scent still lingered on his tongue,", "On sword and arrow all his thoughts were hung."]}, {"id": "B8.7.4", "lines": ["His khanjar scoured the earth across the plain,", "He sought Kay Kavus and his royal reign."]}, {"id": "B8.7.5", "lines": ["He gave no thought to any living man;", "His prowess rose above his birth and clan."]}, {"id": "B8.7.6", "lines": ["The tidings pleased Afrasiab; deep in guile,", "He formed his scheme and laughed a cunning smile."]}, {"id": "B8.7.7", "lines": ["He chose two chiefs whose heavy gorz won fame,", "Men seasoned well in battle’s fiercest flame."]}, {"id": "B8.7.8", "lines": ["Houman and Barman, battle-tempered pair,", "Who faced the lions and would never spare."]}, {"id": "B8.7.9", "lines": ["Twelve thousand chosen warriors formed their train,", "Then Afrasiab made his purpose plain:"]}, {"id": "B8.7.10", "lines": ["“Keep this design concealed from every ear;", "Let not its hidden purpose once appear."]}, {"id": "B8.7.11", "lines": ["The son must never know his father’s face,", "Nor learn the blood that joins their ancient race."]}, {"id": "B8.7.12", "lines": ["When they shall meet, Tahamtan seeks the fray,", "And battle shall decide them on that day."]}, {"id": "B8.7.13", "lines": ["If Sohrab strikes old Rostam down to clay,", "Then we shall press and sweep our foes away."]}, {"id": "B8.7.14", "lines": ["With Rostam gone, Iran shall lose its shield,", "And Kavus and his throne to Turan yield."]}, {"id": "B8.7.15", "lines": ["Then in his sleep one night we seize the boy,", "And end the force we first chose to employ."]}, {"id": "B8.7.16", "lines": ["But if the father kills his only son,", "His heart will burn when that dark deed is done.”"]}, {"id": "B8.7.17", "lines": ["The captains heard; they left the royal hall,", "With gifts and message, answering the call."]}, {"id": "B8.7.18", "lines": ["Ten horses and ten mules they led in train,", "All saddled, loaded for the open plain."]}, {"id": "B8.7.19", "lines": ["A turquoise throne on ivory feet appeared,", "A bijadeh crown with pearl-work finely tiered."]}, {"id": "B8.7.20", "lines": ["A gracious letter bearing royal seal,", "To Sohrab spoke with promise and appeal:"]}, {"id": "B8.7.21", "lines": ["“Take Iran’s throne; let ancient quarrels cease,", "And grant the world from endless struggle peace."]}, {"id": "B8.7.22", "lines": ["Samangan, Iran, Turan, side by side;", "Their borders join; no distant realms divide."]}, {"id": "B8.7.23", "lines": ["I send whatever troops your plans require;", "Sit on the throne, wear the crown you desire."]}, {"id": "B8.7.24", "lines": ["No chiefs in Turan match the men I send;", "Houman and Barman shall your cause attend."]}, {"id": "B8.7.25", "lines": ["Command them in the battle as you will,", "And make your enemies’ resistance still.”"]}, {"id": "B8.7.26", "lines": ["They bore the robe of honor, letter sealed,", "With laden mules and horses for the field."]}, {"id": "B8.7.27", "lines": ["When word came that the envoys reached his land,", "He girt himself to meet the royal band."]}, {"id": "B8.7.28", "lines": ["Like wind he rode, his grandfather beside,", "To greet the envoys where the field lay wide."]}, {"id": "B8.7.29", "lines": ["He saw the army massed in ordered rows,", "And joy within the youthful hero rose."]}, {"id": "B8.7.30", "lines": ["When Houman saw his neck and mighty frame,", "He marveled that the rumor matched the fame."]}, {"id": "B8.7.31", "lines": ["With Barman, he presented every prize,", "The letter, arms, and gear before his eyes."]}, {"id": "B8.7.32", "lines": ["Then both delivered Afrasiab’s command,", "And placed his spoken purpose in Sohrab’s hand."]}, {"id": "B8.7.33", "lines": ["When Sohrab read, he struck the koust aloud,", "And drove his army through the roaring crowd."]}, {"id": "B8.7.34", "lines": ["No force could stand against him in the fight,", "No lion, no nahang, could check his might."]}, {"id": "B8.7.35", "lines": ["His force advanced toward Iran’s guarded line,", "The ranks rolled forward under battle sign."]}, {"id": "B8.7.36", "lines": ["He burned each dwelling place along his course,", "And left no settled home before his force."]}, {"id": "B8.8.1", "lines": ["White fortress stood, a bastion firm and high,", "Iran’s hope rested there beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B8.8.2", "lines": ["Brave Hajir held command within its wall,", "A battle-tested chief, renowned by all."]}, {"id": "B8.8.3", "lines": ["With sword and arrow ready for the foe,", "His strength and courage armed him for the blow."]}, {"id": "B8.8.4", "lines": ["Young Gostaham, though still in youth, was wise,", "And valor shone already in his eyes."]}, {"id": "B8.8.5", "lines": ["His sister too was famed upon the rein,", "A warrior rider bold in battle’s strain."]}, {"id": "B8.8.6", "lines": ["As Sohrab neared, Hajir beheld the foe,", "And armed at once to ride against the blow."]}, {"id": "B8.8.7", "lines": ["Upon a wind-foot charger Hajir sped,", "And from the fortress gate to battle fled."]}, {"id": "B8.8.8", "lines": ["Sohrab grew wrathful, drew his gleaming blade,", "And charged alone from where his ranks were laid."]}, {"id": "B8.8.9", "lines": ["“You ride alone and rashly to the fray;", "Now stand, draw rein, and hear what I shall say."]}, {"id": "B8.8.10", "lines": ["Tell me your name and lineage in this place;", "Your mother soon shall weep to lose your face.”"]}, {"id": "B8.8.11", "lines": ["Hajir replied: “No comrade do I need;", "Alone I face you, armed for any deed."]}, {"id": "B8.8.12", "lines": ["Hajir am I, sepahbod tried and true;", "My sword shall sever life and head from you."]}, {"id": "B8.8.13", "lines": ["Your head I send to Kavus as my sign,", "Your flesh I leave for carrion birds to dine.”"]}, {"id": "B8.8.14", "lines": ["Then Sohrab laughed and spurred his charger fast,", "And both men hurled their spears in one swift cast."]}, {"id": "B8.8.15", "lines": ["So swift the cast no watching eye could trace,", "As each drove forward into combat’s face."]}, {"id": "B8.8.16", "lines": ["Like fire came Sohrab, elephant in force,", "A moving mountain seemed his charging horse."]}, {"id": "B8.8.17", "lines": ["Hajir drove hard his spear at Sohrab’s side,", "But found no opening where the point might glide."]}, {"id": "B8.8.18", "lines": ["Then Sohrab swung the butt-end of his spear,", "And hoisted Hajir from the saddle clear."]}, {"id": "B8.8.19", "lines": ["He hurled him down, a mountain-mass of stone,", "And dread within the fallen chief had grown."]}, {"id": "B8.8.20", "lines": ["Dazed both in heart and mind, the warrior lay,", "His strength and spirit scattered by the fray."]}, {"id": "B8.8.21", "lines": ["Sohrab dismounted, sat on him, and drew", "His sword to cut the fallen warrior through."]}, {"id": "B8.8.22", "lines": ["But Hajir rolled to right beneath the blade,", "And begged for quarter, shaken and afraid."]}, {"id": "B8.8.23", "lines": ["Sohrab granted quarter, pleased to let him live,", "Then counsel long and stern began to give."]}, {"id": "B8.8.24", "lines": ["He bound him fast and sent him from the field,", "To Houman as a captive forced to yield."]}, {"id": "B8.8.25", "lines": ["Within the walls they learned the bitter fate,", "That Hajir had been taken from the gate."]}, {"id": "B8.8.26", "lines": ["Then men and women raised their grieving call:", "“Hajir is taken from among us all!”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.1", "lines": ["When word arrived that Hajir had been bound,", "Gordafarid grieved deeply at the sound."]}, {"id": "B8.9.2", "lines": ["She cried in grief and drew a bitter sigh,", "A cold breath rose as sorrow dimmed her eye."]}, {"id": "B8.9.3", "lines": ["Renowned in battle, rider fierce and famed,", "The daughter of Gazhdaham was acclaimed."]}, {"id": "B8.9.4", "lines": ["Gordafarid, peerless in warlike art,", "Took up her arms with steady hand and heart."]}, {"id": "B8.9.5", "lines": ["She hid her hair within her jowshan, wound", "Beneath a Roman helmet iron-bound."]}, {"id": "B8.9.6", "lines": ["She mounted swift, her armor closely braced,", "And rode beyond the gates with measured haste."]}, {"id": "B8.9.7", "lines": ["Like some fierce lion breaking from its lair,", "She crossed the field with speed and martial air."]}, {"id": "B8.9.8", "lines": ["A wind-foot charger bore her toward the ranks,", "Her thunderous cry rolled out along their flanks."]}, {"id": "B8.9.9", "lines": ["She cried aloud in tones that shook the plain:", "“What force is this, and who commands this train?"]}, {"id": "B8.9.10", "lines": ["What champion stands among you, bold and strong,", "To test himself against me, right or wrong?"]}, {"id": "B8.9.11", "lines": ["Who dares to turn against me in the fray,", "And like a fierce nahang obstruct my way?”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.12", "lines": ["No warrior came; then Sohrab saw her ride,", "He bit his lip and laughed in sudden pride:"]}, {"id": "B8.9.13", "lines": ["“Another Gur-e-Khar comes to my snare,", "Drawn by a strength it cannot hope to bear.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.14", "lines": ["He donned his khaftan, set his helmet right,", "And rushed at once to meet her in the fight."]}, {"id": "B8.9.15", "lines": ["He rushed before the maiden, swift and fleet,", "And drove his charger straight where they would meet."]}, {"id": "B8.9.16", "lines": ["Gordafarid drew back her tempered bow,", "And sent her arrows whistling at the foe."]}, {"id": "B8.9.17", "lines": ["No bird could cross the space before their flight,", "So thick her arrows veiled the field from sight."]}, {"id": "B8.9.18", "lines": ["No path remained beneath her arrow rain;", "She wheeled and struck on either side the plain."]}, {"id": "B8.9.19", "lines": ["Sohrab felt shame; then anger made him glow,", "He raised his shield and charged against the foe."]}, {"id": "B8.9.20", "lines": ["She saw him coming, blazing like a fire,", "She slung her bow and leveled spear in ire."]}, {"id": "B8.9.21", "lines": ["Her charger reared, its crest against the cloud,", "The field beneath its thunder answered loud."]}, {"id": "B8.9.22", "lines": ["She turned the spearpoint straight toward Sohrab’s chest,", "And drove with all the fury she possessed."]}, {"id": "B8.9.23", "lines": ["Then Sohrab raged and leapt with leopard’s speed,", "And wheeled against her on his charging steed."]}, {"id": "B8.9.24", "lines": ["Like Azargashasp he blazed upon the field,", "His deathly spear outstretched, his wrath revealed."]}, {"id": "B8.9.25", "lines": ["He met her stroke and struck her at the waist;", "Her armor tore apart beneath his haste."]}, {"id": "B8.9.26", "lines": ["He swung her from the saddle, light and small,", "As polo mallet strikes the flying ball."]}, {"id": "B8.9.27", "lines": ["Though shaken, she held firm; she never shrank,", "But drew her sword to close upon his flank."]}, {"id": "B8.9.28", "lines": ["She struck his spear and split its shaft in two,", "Then turned away and from the struggle flew."]}, {"id": "B8.9.29", "lines": ["She fled at speed; he gave his dragon rein,", "And thundered after her across the plain."]}, {"id": "B8.9.30", "lines": ["He pressed her hard; the world grew dark with dust,", "And near her shoulder drove with furious thrust."]}, {"id": "B8.9.31", "lines": ["He seized her helmet as he closed in fight,", "And tore it free, revealing her to sight."]}, {"id": "B8.9.32", "lines": ["Her hair fell loose, her face shone clear and bright,", "Like sudden dawn that breaks the edge of night."]}, {"id": "B8.9.33", "lines": ["Her head and loosened hair deserved a crown,", "He stared as shining tresses tumbled down."]}, {"id": "B8.9.34", "lines": ["He paused and cried: “A woman rides to war!", "No field has shown me such a sight before."]}, {"id": "B8.9.35", "lines": ["A daughter from Iran has joined the fray,", "And met me armed upon the field today."]}, {"id": "B8.9.36", "lines": ["If maidens such as this ride out in arms,", "What warriors stand behind them in alarms?"]}, {"id": "B8.9.37", "lines": ["Their mounted chiefs must raise such dust on high,", "It darkens all the turning wheel of sky.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.38", "lines": ["He cast his kamand, caught her at the waist,", "And held her fast before she could make haste."]}, {"id": "B8.9.39", "lines": ["“Why seek escape?” he said. “What brought you here?", "No prize like you has ever drawn me near."]}, {"id": "B8.9.40", "lines": ["Like Gur-e-Khar, you cannot break this snare;", "By force alone you will not leave my care.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.41", "lines": ["She saw no path but cunning left to choose,", "And shaped her words, determined not to lose:"]}, {"id": "B8.9.42", "lines": ["“O lion among warriors, hear me well;", "Two armies watch, and what they see they tell."]}, {"id": "B8.9.43", "lines": ["Now that my face and loosened hair are shown,", "What honor comes from pressing me alone?"]}, {"id": "B8.9.44", "lines": ["Men will declare you drove me from the field,", "And forced a maiden warrior to yield."]}, {"id": "B8.9.45", "lines": ["Do not prolong this struggle to your shame,", "Or let a woman’s battle stain your name."]}, {"id": "B8.9.46", "lines": ["Let silence hide what happened on this plain,", "And spare yourself dishonor and disdain."]}, {"id": "B8.9.47", "lines": ["Let wisdom rule; it is the great man’s art,", "Invite no blame before these ranks depart."]}, {"id": "B8.9.48", "lines": ["This fortress, wealth, and all its guarded store", "Are yours already; why seek battle more?"]}, {"id": "B8.9.49", "lines": ["The army and the fortress are your prize;", "Choose peace when peace is offered to the wise.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.50", "lines": ["She showed her face; her parted lips revealed", "Their pearls, a garden of the blest unsealed."]}, {"id": "B8.9.51", "lines": ["Her eyes were a gazelle’s, her brows an arc,", "Beneath which heaven opened from the dark."]}, {"id": "B8.9.52", "lines": ["A cypress seemed to rise within that place,", "No gardener had grown one with such grace."]}, {"id": "B8.9.53", "lines": ["Then Sohrab said: “Stand firm by what you swore;", "You saw my strength upon the field of war."]}, {"id": "B8.9.54", "lines": ["Trust not these walls, however high they rise;", "No fortress wall can reach the wheeling skies."]}, {"id": "B8.9.55", "lines": ["My gopal’s blow will cast them to the ground;", "My spear will leave their ruined stones around.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.56", "lines": ["Still in his kamand, she turned her rein,", "And led him back toward the fortress terrain."]}, {"id": "B8.9.57", "lines": ["Gazhdaham waited where the gate stood wide,", "And watched his daughter struggle toward his side."]}, {"id": "B8.9.58", "lines": ["The gates flung wide; she drew herself inside,", "Still bound and worn, alive and dignified."]}, {"id": "B8.9.59", "lines": ["They closed them fast; alarm and grief arose,", "As word ran through the fortress of their woes."]}, {"id": "B8.9.60", "lines": ["For Hajir’s bonds and Gordafarid’s plight,", "The people grieved throughout the troubled night."]}, {"id": "B8.9.61", "lines": ["Gazhdaham came with nobles in his train,", "And praised her courage after battle’s strain."]}, {"id": "B8.9.62", "lines": ["“O lion-hearted chief, we feared for you;", "Both fight and cunning proved your wisdom true."]}, {"id": "B8.9.63", "lines": ["No foe has harmed you, nor has marred your name;", "Thank Yazdan, you are back, and free from shame.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.64", "lines": ["She laughed, then climbed the rampart’s lofty height,", "And saw Sohrab still mounted for the fight."]}, {"id": "B8.9.65", "lines": ["She cried: “O Shah of Turks and Chin, why stay?", "Turn back your army; ride from here away.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.66", "lines": ["Sohrab replied: “Fair-faced one, hear me swear", "By crown and throne, by sun and moon; beware:"]}, {"id": "B8.9.67", "lines": ["I mean to raze these walls and claim my prize;", "You will repent those words and mocking eyes."]}, {"id": "B8.9.68", "lines": ["When helpless in my grasp you writhe in pain,", "What then becomes of vows? What will remain?"]}, {"id": "B8.9.69", "lines": ["Repentance then will bring you no relief,", "When turning heaven strips your crown in grief.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.70", "lines": ["She laughed again and scornfully replied:", "“No Turk can win himself an Iran bride."]}, {"id": "B8.9.71", "lines": ["It was not fated I should fall to you;", "Take no offense; there is no more to do."]}, {"id": "B8.9.72", "lines": ["Among the Pahlevans you stand alone;", "Your arms and shoulders make your prowess known."]}, {"id": "B8.9.73", "lines": ["But when the Shah receives the news one day", "That Turan’s army marches in array,"]}, {"id": "B8.9.74", "lines": ["He will bring Rostam, whom you cannot fight,", "And all your troops will fall before his might."]}, {"id": "B8.9.75", "lines": ["What fate will fall upon your head, who knows?", "Yet pity for your neck and shoulders grows."]}, {"id": "B8.9.76", "lines": ["What pity if so fine a youth were slain,", "And fed the leopards on the battle plain."]}, {"id": "B8.9.77", "lines": ["Do not put too much trust in strength and pride;", "The foolish ox consumes its very side."]}, {"id": "B8.9.78", "lines": ["The wiser course is this: withdraw your men,", "And turn your army toward Turan again.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.79", "lines": ["Sohrab felt shame, yet thought the fortress won", "Before the rising of another sun."]}, {"id": "B8.9.80", "lines": ["Below the fortress lay a settled ground,", "The stronghold rose above that tract around."]}, {"id": "B8.9.81", "lines": ["He gave the settled fields around for spoil,", "And let his men lay bare the fertile soil."]}, {"id": "B8.9.82", "lines": ["Then for a while he held his forces back:", "“The day grows late; we must suspend attack."]}, {"id": "B8.9.83", "lines": ["At dawn we raise such dust beneath this wall,", "That war’s alarms will echo through each hall.”"]}, {"id": "B8.9.84", "lines": ["He turned his charger from the gate again,", "And rode back to his camp among his men."]}, {"id": "B8.10.1", "lines": ["When Sohrab turned and left the field behind,", "Old Gazhdaham grew troubled in his mind."]}, {"id": "B8.10.2", "lines": ["He called a scribe and bade him take his place:", "“Write every word; this danger gathers pace."]}, {"id": "B8.10.3", "lines": ["To Kavus, Shah whose glory crowns the age,", "I write as Fortune turns with sudden rage."]}, {"id": "B8.10.4", "lines": ["A battle-seeking army fills the plain,", "Its warriors press on with loosened rein."]}, {"id": "B8.10.5", "lines": ["One lion-youth commands them, fierce and keen;", "His years do not exceed a bare fourteen."]}, {"id": "B8.10.6", "lines": ["He towers like a cypress, straight and fair,", "His face shines like the sun through morning air."]}, {"id": "B8.10.7", "lines": ["A lion’s chest, a cypress-towering frame,", "Proclaim a strength no common youth could claim."]}, {"id": "B8.10.8", "lines": ["Among the Turks no arm or gorz compares;", "No warrior’s hand such crushing power bears."]}, {"id": "B8.10.9", "lines": ["When Indian steel is lifted in his hand,", "The sea and mountain seem too frail to stand."]}, {"id": "B8.10.10", "lines": ["No thunder’s roar can equal his command;", "No sword cuts sharper wielded in this land."]}, {"id": "B8.10.11", "lines": ["No peer in Iran or Turan is found;", "No warrior like him walks the battleground."]}, {"id": "B8.10.12", "lines": ["His name is Sohrab, fearless in the fray;", "No Div or elephant holds him at bay."]}, {"id": "B8.10.13", "lines": ["You would believe you saw great Rostam’s face;", "Of Nariman he bears the living trace."]}, {"id": "B8.10.14", "lines": ["Brave Hajir girt himself and took the rein,", "His swift horse bore him outward to the plain."]}, {"id": "B8.10.15", "lines": ["Before an eyelid had the time to close,", "Their contest flashed and ended as it rose."]}, {"id": "B8.10.16", "lines": ["Before a scent could climb from nose to crown,", "He plucked Hajir from horseback, set him down."]}, {"id": "B8.10.17", "lines": ["He lives beneath Sohrab’s zanhar still,", "His mind oppressed, his body bent by ill."]}, {"id": "B8.10.18", "lines": ["Turanian riders I have seen in force,", "But none could turn the rein or master horse."]}, {"id": "B8.10.19", "lines": ["If any Iranian meets him face to face,", "No living man could drive him from his place."]}, {"id": "B8.10.20", "lines": ["No granite peak would I set to impede;", "The earth would pity it beneath his steed."]}, {"id": "B8.10.21", "lines": ["If you delay and do not bring your men,", "Nor set an ambush or prepare us then,"]}, {"id": "B8.10.22", "lines": ["Then Iran’s farr will leave this troubled land,", "His sword will cast the world beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "B8.10.23", "lines": ["His strength could seize the age and make it bow;", "No man alive could master Sohrab now."]}, {"id": "B8.10.24", "lines": ["No horseman like him ever rode the plain;", "You would say Sahm himself had seized the rein."]}, {"id": "B8.10.25", "lines": ["Our champions’ fortune sleeps beneath his blow;", "His greatness rises where the heavens glow."]}, {"id": "B8.10.26", "lines": ["Tonight we load our goods and leave this place,", "Before his strength can close upon our trace."]}, {"id": "B8.10.27", "lines": ["We must not linger where his banners loom;", "To stay is only to invite our doom."]}, {"id": "B8.10.28", "lines": ["No fortress wall can stand against his blow;", "A lion at his charge would turn and go.”"]}, {"id": "B8.10.29", "lines": ["At night he sealed the letter he had penned,", "And called a trusted rider at the end."]}, {"id": "B8.10.30", "lines": ["He gave the sealed dispatch, and bade him heed:", "“Ride hard and do precisely what I need."]}, {"id": "B8.10.31", "lines": ["Before the dawn, be hidden from their sight;", "Let none among that army mark your flight.”"]}, {"id": "B8.10.32", "lines": ["The rider bound the letter at his side,", "Then rose at once and swiftly left to ride."]}, {"id": "B8.11.1", "lines": ["At dawn, when sunlight crowned the mountain height,", "The men of Turan armed themselves for fight."]}, {"id": "B8.11.2", "lines": ["With spear in hand, young Sohrab took the rein,", "His swift horse bore him forward from the plain."]}, {"id": "B8.11.3", "lines": ["He meant to seize the warriors in the hold,", "And bind them like a flock within the fold."]}, {"id": "B8.11.4", "lines": ["He neared the walls; no warrior barred the way,", "Then roared like lion eager for the fray."]}, {"id": "B8.11.5", "lines": ["The gates stood open; Sohrab entered through,", "No battle-ready warrior met his view."]}, {"id": "B8.11.6", "lines": ["His army entered, searching court and hall,", "But Gazhdaham was nowhere found at all."]}, {"id": "B8.11.7", "lines": ["For in the night the fortress chiefs had fled,", "With Gazhdaham, who rode out at their head."]}, {"id": "B8.11.8", "lines": ["A secret passage ran beneath the ground,", "Unknown to every foe encamped around."]}, {"id": "B8.11.9", "lines": ["Both guilty men and those without a stain", "Came forth to Sohrab, hoping life to gain."]}, {"id": "B8.11.10", "lines": ["Each sought some means by which his life might last,", "And begged for mercy till the danger passed."]}, {"id": "B8.11.11", "lines": ["He searched the halls for Gordafarid’s face,", "But found no sign of her in any place."]}, {"id": "B8.11.12", "lines": ["For love and bond had rooted in his heart,", "And from his thoughts her image would not part."]}, {"id": "B8.11.13", "lines": ["“Alas,” he said, “the shining moon is gone;", "Beneath a cloud her radiant face withdrawn.”"]}, {"id": "B8.11.14", "lines": ["Gazhdaham’s letter reached Kay Kavus’s hand,", "And grief arose at what he learned was planned."]}, {"id": "B8.11.15", "lines": ["He called the chiefs who held the army’s lead,", "To hear the tale and counsel on their need."]}, {"id": "B8.11.16", "lines": ["Before Iran’s Shah the nobles took their seat,", "To weigh the danger and the threat they might meet."]}, {"id": "B8.11.17", "lines": ["Tus and Gudarz, Keshvad’s son of fame,", "With Giv and Gorgin, Bahram, Farhad came."]}, {"id": "B8.11.18", "lines": ["Before these chiefs he read the warning through,", "And told what Gazhdaham had seen the youth do."]}, {"id": "B8.11.19", "lines": ["He said: “This danger may grow long and grave;", "Gazhdaham’s words leave little hope to save."]}, {"id": "B8.11.20", "lines": ["What shall we do? What remedy is known?", "What man in Iran can face him alone?”"]}, {"id": "B8.11.21", "lines": ["They spoke as one: “Send Giv to Zabul, ride!", "Call Rostam, Iran’s strength and nation’s pride."]}, {"id": "B8.11.22", "lines": ["Tell him the Shah’s own throne now stands in dread,", "And peril over all Iran has spread."]}, {"id": "B8.11.23", "lines": ["Tell Piltan to come swiftly to the field,", "The army’s pillar and its strongest shield.”"]}, {"id": "B8.11.24", "lines": ["Then Kavus sat beside his scribe, hard pressed,", "For urgent peril gave no room for rest."]}, {"id": "B8.12.1", "lines": ["The Shah commanded: “Write to Rostam now,", "And bless the Pahlevan of noble brow."]}, {"id": "B8.12.2", "lines": ["Say: ‘Keep your judgment clear, your spirit bright;", "A grave new threat has risen into sight."]}, {"id": "B8.12.3", "lines": ["A Turanian chief has marched with armed array,", "And seized White Fortress standing in his way."]}, {"id": "B8.12.4", "lines": ["He holds the stronghold with his warriors massed,", "And bars the road so none may travel past."]}, {"id": "B8.12.5", "lines": ["A warrior fierce, peerless in heart and frame,", "An elephant in strength, a lion-heart aflame."]}, {"id": "B8.12.6", "lines": ["No man in Iran dares to meet his hand;", "You alone can break him where you stand."]}, {"id": "B8.12.7", "lines": ["In every trial, none but you can aid,", "When danger falls and Iran stands dismayed."]}, {"id": "B8.12.8", "lines": ["You are the heart and backbone of our line,", "Through you Iran’s warriors rise and shine."]}, {"id": "B8.12.9", "lines": ["The lion’s claw and strength are yours to wield,", "Our champions take heart when you take field."]}, {"id": "B8.12.10", "lines": ["You took Mazandaran in all its pride,", "And broke our chains in Hamavaran’s tide."]}, {"id": "B8.12.11", "lines": ["The sun shall weep beneath the gorz you raise;", "Nahid shall burn before your sword’s fierce blaze."]}, {"id": "B8.12.12", "lines": ["No elephant on earth can match your might,", "Nor stand before you armed for battle’s fight."]}, {"id": "B8.12.13", "lines": ["The Nile is nothing beside Rakhsh’s dust,", "That clouds the earth beneath his charging thrust."]}, {"id": "B8.12.14", "lines": ["Your kamand catches lions in their stride,", "Your spear can split the mountain’s rooted side."]}, {"id": "B8.12.15", "lines": ["In every trial Iran looks to you;", "Through you her helmed ranks rise with courage new."]}, {"id": "B8.12.16", "lines": ["A bitter danger now confronts the throne;", "Its weight I cannot carry on my own."]}, {"id": "B8.12.17", "lines": ["The chiefs have read the words Gazhdaham sent,", "And all agree on what his warning meant."]}, {"id": "B8.12.18", "lines": ["They chose brave Giv to bring this news to you,", "And urge the course that Iran must pursue."]}, {"id": "B8.12.19", "lines": ["He bears Gazhdaham’s letter as he rides,", "So you may weigh the good and ill it hides."]}, {"id": "B8.12.20", "lines": ["When you have read it, whether day or night,", "Waste no time talking over this new plight."]}, {"id": "B8.12.21", "lines": ["If flowers rest within your hand, move fast;", "Do not delay to smell them; hurry past."]}, {"id": "B8.12.22", "lines": ["Ride out from Zabul with your mounted band,", "And raise the war-cry through the troubled land."]}, {"id": "B8.12.23", "lines": ["For if his words be true in every part,", "No other man can match his strength and heart.’”"]}, {"id": "B8.12.24", "lines": ["The Shah then sealed the letter without stay,", "And gave it into Giv’s hands straightaway."]}, {"id": "B8.12.25", "lines": ["He said to Giv: “Press on and urge your horse;", "Let speed alone now determine your course."]}, {"id": "B8.12.26", "lines": ["When you reach Rostam, do not sleep or bide;", "If night has fallen, turn at dawn and ride."]}, {"id": "B8.12.27", "lines": ["When Rostam hears, let nothing hold you still;", "In Zabul do not rest or eat your fill."]}, {"id": "B8.12.28", "lines": ["Say: ‘War is near and presses hard on all;", "The Shah commands that you obey this call.’"]}, {"id": "B8.12.29", "lines": ["And tell him this new foe must well be weighed;", "No foe like this should ever be downplayed.”"]}, {"id": "B8.12.30", "lines": ["Giv took the charge and rode without delay,", "No rest, no sleep restrained him on the way."]}, {"id": "B8.12.31", "lines": ["He pressed his mount along with tireless speed;", "Nor bread nor water checked his urgent need."]}, {"id": "B8.12.32", "lines": ["Near Zabul, scouts announced a rider near,", "And Zal received their warning loud and clear:"]}, {"id": "B8.12.33", "lines": ["“From Iran comes a rider wrapped in dust,", "His road-worn steed still races at his thrust.”"]}, {"id": "B8.12.34", "lines": ["Then Rostam rode to meet him on the plain,", "With nobles armed and warriors in his train."]}, {"id": "B8.12.35", "lines": ["When Giv drew close, they all got down to greet,", "And Rostam asked what news had sped his feet."]}, {"id": "B8.12.36", "lines": ["He asked of Iran and of Kavus then,", "What news had stirred the Shah among his men."]}, {"id": "B8.12.37", "lines": ["They went within to Rostam’s eyvan hall,", "And sat awhile to rest from journey’s call."]}, {"id": "B8.12.38", "lines": ["Then Giv recounted all that he had heard,", "Of Sohrab, Hajir, fortress, deed, and word."]}, {"id": "B8.12.39", "lines": ["He gave the letter, gifts the Shah had sent,", "And told the good and ill of its intent."]}, {"id": "B8.12.40", "lines": ["Tahamtan laughed when he had read it through,", "Then marveled at the report, strange and new."]}, {"id": "B8.12.41", "lines": ["“A rider like great Sahm? Such strength is bred", "Within our line, through noble blood long spread."]}, {"id": "B8.12.42", "lines": ["Among Iran’s freeborn such men are famed;", "Among the Turks no equal can be named."]}, {"id": "B8.12.43", "lines": ["No man can tell the root from which he came,", "Nor what deep source has shaped his strength and frame."]}, {"id": "B8.12.44", "lines": ["The king of Samangan’s daughter bore my son,", "But he is still a child, his years scarce run."]}, {"id": "B8.12.45", "lines": ["That boy knows nothing yet of spear or war,", "Nor of the clash that shakes the battle’s roar."]}, {"id": "B8.12.46", "lines": ["I sent his mother gold and jewels all,", "And word returned: before long he would grow tall."]}, {"id": "B8.12.47", "lines": ["Still milk’s scent lingers on his youthful lip,", "Yet soon he may take sword and spear in grip."]}, {"id": "B8.12.48", "lines": ["In time his lion-arm will gather might,", "And seek the roaring tumult of the fight."]}, {"id": "B8.12.49", "lines": ["Then cypress-tall champions, proud and strong,", "Will bow their heads when once he comes along."]}, {"id": "B8.12.50", "lines": ["But what you claim; that he has come afield,", "Has struck Hajir and forced his arm to yield?"]}, {"id": "B8.12.51", "lines": ["You say he hurled Hajir from off his steed,", "Then bound him in his kamand at speed."]}, {"id": "B8.12.52", "lines": ["No lion’s whelp, however bold and grown,", "Could reach such strength before full years are known."]}, {"id": "B8.12.53", "lines": ["Come, let us go to Dastan’s noble hall,", "And there consider what has caused it all."]}, {"id": "B8.12.54", "lines": ["We shall learn what Turanian fortune raised,", "And judge what root has fed the strength you praised.”"]}, {"id": "B8.12.55", "lines": ["They sat in Dastan’s palace for a while,", "At ease together after road and trial."]}, {"id": "B8.12.56", "lines": ["Then Giv spoke up: “O chief of crown and throne,", "May glory shine through all the strength you have shown."]}, {"id": "B8.12.57", "lines": ["Kavus declared: ‘Let Rostam not delay;", "Though night has come, depart at break of day."]}, {"id": "B8.12.58", "lines": ["May war find all our forces armed, prepared;", "Come now, before the realm is left impaired.’"]}, {"id": "B8.12.59", "lines": ["So let us ride with haste; Iran has need,", "For each delay may let disaster breed.”"]}, {"id": "B8.12.60", "lines": ["But Rostam said: “There is no cause for dread;", "All things at last are dust beneath the tread."]}, {"id": "B8.12.61", "lines": ["Think not today of Kavus or the fight;", "Let wine now wet our thirsty lips tonight."]}, {"id": "B8.12.62", "lines": ["Let us remain today in ease and cheer,", "And take some wine while friends and kin are near."]}, {"id": "B8.12.63", "lines": ["Tomorrow we shall ride to Kavus then,", "And show the road to all Iran’s brave men."]}, {"id": "B8.12.64", "lines": ["Perhaps our generous fortune sleeps today;", "Else this affair would scarcely bar our way."]}, {"id": "B8.12.65", "lines": ["This matter is a trifle, nothing more;", "No racing flame withstands the ocean’s roar."]}, {"id": "B8.12.66", "lines": ["My banner seen from far will shake his will,", "And turn his feast to mourning, cold and still."]}, {"id": "B8.12.67", "lines": ["Were he like Rostam, Zal’s own son, in might,", "Lord of the sword and gopal in the fight,"]}, {"id": "B8.12.68", "lines": ["Or were he Sahm, courageous, wise, and bold,", "Whose strength in battle shamed the chiefs of old,"]}, {"id": "B8.12.69", "lines": ["Such men would never rush into the fray;", "So this affair should cause us no dismay.”"]}, {"id": "B8.12.70", "lines": ["They raised their cups to Zal and Shah with cheer,", "And drank until clear judgment disappeared."]}, {"id": "B8.12.71", "lines": ["Next morning Rostam, heavy from the wine,", "Made ready for the road, then changed his mind."]}, {"id": "B8.12.72", "lines": ["Still held by wine, he stayed throughout the day;", "The second dawn his promised ride gave way."]}, {"id": "B8.12.73", "lines": ["Still dulled by drink, he bade the cooks prepare", "A feast, and soon the board was rich with fare."]}, {"id": "B8.12.74", "lines": ["When food was done, they called for wine to pour,", "For rud and song, and drank as days before."]}, {"id": "B8.12.75", "lines": ["Next day another brilliant feast was spread;", "The third dawn found the wine-cup raised instead."]}, {"id": "B8.12.76", "lines": ["Of Kavus and his summons none took heed;", "But on the fourth day Giv prepared his steed."]}, {"id": "B8.12.77", "lines": ["He said, “Kavus is headstrong, quick to rage;", "He sees grave danger rising at this stage."]}, {"id": "B8.12.78", "lines": ["He neither ate nor slept nor found repose,", "As fear and anger through his spirit rose."]}, {"id": "B8.12.79", "lines": ["By lingering so long in Zabul’s land,", "We press him hard beyond what he can stand."]}, {"id": "B8.12.80", "lines": ["His temper will ignite; in angry mood", "He may seek vengeance, rash, and start a feud.”"]}, {"id": "B8.12.81", "lines": ["But Rostam answered, “Put this fear away;", "No man on earth will rise against us today.”"]}, {"id": "B8.12.82", "lines": ["He ordered Rakhsh made ready to depart,", "While bronze neys called the warriors to start."]}, {"id": "B8.12.83", "lines": ["Then Zabul’s horsemen gathered for the ride,", "A mighty force in jowshans at his side."]}, {"id": "B8.12.84", "lines": ["Above them all, as foremost in command,", "He named Zavareh chief of all that band."]}, {"id": "B8.13.1", "lines": ["As Rostam neared the court, Tus crossed the plain,", "With Gudarz riding in his warlike train."]}, {"id": "B8.13.2", "lines": ["A full day’s road they traveled out to meet,", "The champion came riding, proud and fleet."]}, {"id": "B8.13.3", "lines": ["They left their steeds and hailed him with acclaim,", "Then mounted, and beside him on they came."]}, {"id": "B8.13.4", "lines": ["And Rostam too dismounted from his steed;", "The chiefs inquired of him with gracious heed."]}, {"id": "B8.13.5", "lines": ["They came before the Shah with spirits light,", "And bowed in full observance of his right."]}, {"id": "B8.13.6", "lines": ["But Kavus answered not, nor showed them grace;", "A darkened fury settled on his face."]}, {"id": "B8.13.7", "lines": ["Like some wild lion raging from the wood,", "He stormed in wrath where once in calm he stood."]}, {"id": "B8.13.8", "lines": ["At Giv he first unleashed his bitter spite,", "Then turned on Rostam, burning in his sight."]}, {"id": "B8.13.9", "lines": ["“Who is this man who scorns my royal call,", "And counts my summons as no thing at all?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.10", "lines": ["Were there a sword beneath my hand this day,", "His head should fall; a citron, cast away."]}, {"id": "B8.13.11", "lines": ["Seize Rostam now! Go hang him from the height!", "Let him not stand before my royal sight!”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.12", "lines": ["At this, Giv’s wounded heart within him burned,", "To see the Shah against great Rostam turned."]}, {"id": "B8.13.13", "lines": ["The Shah grew fierce, enraged at both, and stern;", "The court stood stunned to see his anger burn."]}, {"id": "B8.13.14", "lines": ["He turned to Tus: “Go take them both and bind!", "Hang them at once and leave no trace behind!”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.15", "lines": ["He sprang upright as fire through dry reeds flies,", "While wrath burned red and bitter in his eyes."]}, {"id": "B8.13.16", "lines": ["Tus stepped ahead and seized him by the hand,", "To lead him out, obeying the command."]}, {"id": "B8.13.17", "lines": ["But Rostam, rising fierce in sudden flame,", "Replied in words that put the court to shame:"]}, {"id": "B8.13.18", "lines": ["“Your every deed grows worse with each new choice;", "No king should rule by fury in his voice."]}, {"id": "B8.13.19", "lines": ["Kingship does not suit the course you take;", "A ruler’s wrath should not the kingdom shake."]}, {"id": "B8.13.20", "lines": ["Hang that Turk alive if you crave display,", "Then turn your rage upon the field of fray."]}, {"id": "B8.13.21", "lines": ["Rum, Sagzar, Mesr, Chin have yielded ground;", "Mazandaran, Hamavaran were bound."]}, {"id": "B8.13.22", "lines": ["All these lie prostrate under Rakhsh’s tread,", "Their hearts by sword and crossbow struck with dread."]}, {"id": "B8.13.23", "lines": ["You live through me; then turn your rage from me;", "Let war receive the fury you set free.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.24", "lines": ["In fury Rostam struck Tus with his hand;", "Tus reeled beneath a blow he could not stand."]}, {"id": "B8.13.25", "lines": ["As when a raging elephant might pound", "A tabira; headfirst Tus crashed to ground."]}, {"id": "B8.13.26", "lines": ["Then Rostam strode beyond the royal hall,", "And left in rage before the eyes of all."]}, {"id": "B8.13.27", "lines": ["He mounted Rakhsh, his anger bearing down:", "“I slay the lion; I bestow the crown!"]}, {"id": "B8.13.28", "lines": ["When anger wakes, what power has Kavus then?", "What fear have I of kings or armed men?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.29", "lines": ["And who is Tus, to lay his hand on me?", "When I grow enraged, who can Kavus be?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.30", "lines": ["My strength is mine from God and God alone;", "No king or army gives the might I own."]}, {"id": "B8.13.31", "lines": ["I entered life a free man, not a slave;", "I serve the Maker who my spirit gave."]}, {"id": "B8.13.32", "lines": ["The earth my servant, Rakhsh my royal seat;", "My gorz decides which foemen face defeat."]}, {"id": "B8.13.33", "lines": ["My sword my signet, helmet as my crown;", "My spear and gorz strike the enemy down."]}, {"id": "B8.13.34", "lines": ["My two strong arms and heart are sovereign here;", "No earthly crown can make their purpose veer."]}, {"id": "B8.13.35", "lines": ["My shining sword makes darkest night grow bright,", "And scatters heads across the field of fight."]}, {"id": "B8.13.36", "lines": ["The warriors once would crown me Shah of all;", "They set the crown and throne before my hall."]}, {"id": "B8.13.37", "lines": ["I would not take the crown when it was mine;", "I kept the ancient law, the royal line."]}, {"id": "B8.13.38", "lines": ["Had I accepted what they offered then,", "You would not rule among Iran’s crowned men."]}, {"id": "B8.13.39", "lines": ["I raised Kay Qobad up to royal height;", "What need have I of Kavus’s borrowed might?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.40", "lines": ["From Alborz I brought Qobad to the crown;", "My hand raised up the king of great renown."]}, {"id": "B8.13.41", "lines": ["Without that deed, Iran’s own belt and blade", "Had never marked the kingdom we had made."]}, {"id": "B8.13.42", "lines": ["Without my hand, what greatness would you wield?", "You would not boast so boldly in the field."]}, {"id": "B8.13.43", "lines": ["What care I now for Kavus’s empty claim?", "His words are wind that cannot stir my name."]}, {"id": "B8.13.44", "lines": ["Go save yourselves; Sohrab will soon appear,", "And leave no great nor lowly standing here."]}, {"id": "B8.13.45", "lines": ["Make haste and flee while time remains your friend;", "Without my arm, all Iran meets its end."]}, {"id": "B8.13.46", "lines": ["The land is yours; the vulture’s wings are mine;", "I leave you now, and cross no more this line.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.47", "lines": ["He struck his steed and rode in burning rage,", "While fear and grief possessed both chief and sage."]}, {"id": "B8.13.48", "lines": ["His very skin seemed splitting from the strain,", "As fury burned through every bone and vein."]}, {"id": "B8.13.49", "lines": ["The nobles trembled, for their strength had fled;", "Without their guide, their hopes and courage bled."]}, {"id": "B8.13.50", "lines": ["For Rostam was the shepherd, they the fold,", "And now the fold stood shepherdless and cold."]}, {"id": "B8.13.51", "lines": ["Then Giv and Gudarz, Bahram, Rohham came,", "With Gorgin too, and grieved at Rostam’s shame."]}, {"id": "B8.13.52", "lines": ["They said, “This breach is yours alone to mend;", "The Shah may hear you where he spurns a friend.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.53", "lines": ["They turned to Gudarz: “You must mend this break;", "Your words alone can make the blind Shah wake."]}, {"id": "B8.13.54", "lines": ["Go, speak to him with patience and with tact;", "Perhaps your words may yet undo this act.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.55", "lines": ["“Rostam has risked his life in every need;", "No rescuer has matched him word or deed.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.56", "lines": ["They spoke of all his deeds in former years;", "The trials he faced, the strength that quelled their fears:"]}, {"id": "B8.13.57", "lines": ["“In Mazandaran Divs had bound the Shah;", "Who broke his chains and struck their hearts with awe?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.58", "lines": ["For Rostam faced the Divs, stroke on stroke,", "And from their bonds the Shah and nobles broke."]}, {"id": "B8.13.59", "lines": ["For him what toil and hardship Rostam bore;", "The dread Div’s liver with his strength he tore."]}, {"id": "B8.13.60", "lines": ["He set the rescued Shah upon his throne,", "While chiefs acclaimed the valor he had shown."]}, {"id": "B8.13.61", "lines": ["When Hamavaran held the Shah confined,", "Who cut him free and left his chains behind?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.62", "lines": ["In Hamavaran, fetters held the king;", "Rostam slew kings and broke the captive ring."]}, {"id": "B8.13.63", "lines": ["If this be how his service is repaid,", "Then none should stay, and none should come to aid.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.64", "lines": ["“Now action calls; delay will deepen shame,", "For this disgrace has stained Iran’s great name.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.65", "lines": ["Then Gudarz hurried to the Shah to plead,", "And spoke with measured force that fit the need:"]}, {"id": "B8.13.66", "lines": ["“What wrong has Rostam done to earn your scorn,", "That you would drive this hero out forlorn?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.67", "lines": ["Why raise such dust through Iran in this strife?", "Why hang the man whose arm has saved your life?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.68", "lines": ["A king should never speak in reckless heat;", "Such words make royal dignity retreat."]}, {"id": "B8.13.69", "lines": ["Have you forgotten Mazandaran’s night,", "And how he saved you in that desperate fight?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.70", "lines": ["When Hamavaran held you bound and low,", "Who broke your chains and struck your greatest foe?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.71", "lines": ["If he departs and Sohrab takes the field,", "What strength remains for you to hope to wield?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.72", "lines": ["Gazhdaham has seen him; heed his warning plain:", "No man but Rostam should confront his strain."]}, {"id": "B8.13.73", "lines": ["If Rostam goes, who meets that wolf-like youth,", "When Gazhdaham has warned us of the truth?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.74", "lines": ["A king with Rostam standing at his side,", "Who drives him off has wisdom cast aside."]}, {"id": "B8.13.75", "lines": ["Recall his service; weigh it in your mind;", "No gain is born when loyalty is maligned.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.76", "lines": ["The Shah grew still, and reason found its place;", "He saw his fault and owned his deep disgrace."]}, {"id": "B8.13.77", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Age gives counsel worth the cost;", "The old see roads that younger eyes have lost."]}, {"id": "B8.13.78", "lines": ["A king needs wisdom; haste and rage mislead;", "No lasting good can spring from violent speed.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.79", "lines": ["“You speak the truth,” he said, “your counsel stands;", "Go bring him back; restore him to my hands."]}, {"id": "B8.13.80", "lines": ["Tell him my anger rose beyond control;", "I now repent the storm within my soul."]}, {"id": "B8.13.81", "lines": ["Bring Rostam back before my royal sight,", "That this dark soul of mine may turn to light.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.82", "lines": ["Then Gudarz rode along the hero’s way,", "With chiefs beside him pressing through the day."]}, {"id": "B8.13.83", "lines": ["They caught him, saying, “May your life be long;", "May fortune keep your spirit bright and strong."]}, {"id": "B8.13.84", "lines": ["May all the world lie subject to your view,", "And may the throne’s high seat belong to you.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.85", "lines": ["They gathered round and spoke in earnest tone:", "“Return in honor; the Shah calls you home."]}, {"id": "B8.13.86", "lines": ["He spoke in wrath; his anger now has died;", "Return, for all Iran has lost its guide.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.87", "lines": ["“You know that Kavus has no brain,” they said;", "“In haste he speaks, then mourns the words he spread."]}, {"id": "B8.13.88", "lines": ["You know the Shah: his wrath will quickly rise,", "Then cool as swiftly when regret grows wise."]}, {"id": "B8.13.89", "lines": ["Whatever wrong the Shah has done today,", "Iran itself should not be made to pay."]}, {"id": "B8.13.90", "lines": ["He gnaws the back of his own hand in shame,", "Repenting every word that fed the flame.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.91", "lines": ["But Rostam said: “I need no royal aid;", "My throne is Rakhsh, my fame by battle made."]}, {"id": "B8.13.92", "lines": ["My helmet is my crown, jowshan my gear;", "My heart is pledged to death and knows no fear."]}, {"id": "B8.13.93", "lines": ["Kavus is nothing but a handful of dust;", "Why should his anger govern what I trust?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.94", "lines": ["I freed him once from chains that held him down,", "And led him back again to throne and crown."]}, {"id": "B8.13.95", "lines": ["I fought the Divs in Mazandaran’s field,", "And Hamavaran’s kings I made to yield."]}, {"id": "B8.13.96", "lines": ["Whenever foes had caught him in their snare,", "I broke his bonds and drew him from despair."]}, {"id": "B8.13.97", "lines": ["I fear but Yazdan; no monarch shakes my will.", "I stand as I have stood and shall stand still.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.98", "lines": ["The gathering grew cold at Rostam’s word;", "No answer through the silent ranks was heard."]}, {"id": "B8.13.99", "lines": ["Then Gudarz spoke with sharpened, subtle art:", "“Men say you fear this youth with lion’s heart."]}, {"id": "B8.13.100", "lines": ["They whisper: ‘Rostam shrinks from Sohrab’s might;", "His courage fails before the coming fight.’"]}, {"id": "B8.13.101", "lines": ["They say Gazhdaham read the danger clear;", "That even Rostam now gives ground to fear."]}, {"id": "B8.13.102", "lines": ["If Rostam fears him, who can hold the field?", "Then you and I should both withdraw and yield."]}, {"id": "B8.13.103", "lines": ["Will you permit such slander to remain,", "And let base tongues your hard-won honor stain?"]}, {"id": "B8.13.104", "lines": ["Sohrab is all the court will speak of now;", "Your fame is judged by what you do, and how."]}, {"id": "B8.13.105", "lines": ["The army now is hard pressed in this fight;", "Do not make crown and throne grow dark tonight."]}, {"id": "B8.13.106", "lines": ["From Turan comes a shame we cannot hide;", "Will you not rise and turn the rising tide?”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.107", "lines": ["Tahamtan stared, astonished by the claim;", "Then wounded honor kindled into flame."]}, {"id": "B8.13.108", "lines": ["The hero’s spirit flared at that sharp blow:", "“I fear no man, as all the nations know."]}, {"id": "B8.13.109", "lines": ["I turned away from insult, not from fight;", "Let none mistake my purpose or my right.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.110", "lines": ["He turned his steed and rode back through the gate,", "Kay Kavus rose himself and did not wait."]}, {"id": "B8.13.111", "lines": ["“Impetuous haste is rooted in my soul;", "It mastered me and drove me past control."]}, {"id": "B8.13.112", "lines": ["This sudden foe struck all my courage low;", "My heart grew thin as the new moon’s first glow."]}, {"id": "B8.13.113", "lines": ["To you I looked for cure when danger came;", "Your late arrival set my wrath aflame."]}, {"id": "B8.13.114", "lines": ["Forgive my haste; repentance burns me sore,", "I filled my mouth with dust upon the floor.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.115", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “The world bends to your will;", "Your servants, we stand ready to fulfill."]}, {"id": "B8.13.116", "lines": ["I stand prepared before your royal gate,", "To do your will and meet the coming fate.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.117", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Champion, may fortune bless", "Your heart and spirit always with success."]}, {"id": "B8.13.118", "lines": ["Let joy return and gladness fill this day;", "Tonight we feast, tomorrow march to fray.”"]}, {"id": "B8.13.119", "lines": ["He had a royal pleasure-hall made fair,", "Like springtime gardens filled with scented air."]}, {"id": "B8.13.120", "lines": ["He called the chiefs and scattered gems around,", "Then feasted till deep night had veiled the ground."]}, {"id": "B8.13.121", "lines": ["Silken strings and reed-notes filled the hall,", "While jasmine-faced attendants served them all."]}, {"id": "B8.13.122", "lines": ["Their talk recalled the deeds of mighty men;", "They drank till heart and eye grew dim again."]}, {"id": "B8.13.123", "lines": ["Each wine-dazed warrior then sought his bed,", "While weary night dragged on with heavy tread."]}, {"id": "B8.14.1", "lines": ["The sun cut through night’s black and hanging veil,", "And from behind its curtain dawn grew pale."]}, {"id": "B8.14.2", "lines": ["Kavus told Giv and Tus: “Sound now the koust;", "Let trumpeting elephants thunder loose.”"]}, {"id": "B8.14.3", "lines": ["He opened wide the treasury’s guarded store,", "And gave the troops their pay and rations more."]}, {"id": "B8.14.4", "lines": ["He called the mounted army into train,", "And loaded beasts with baggage for the plain."]}, {"id": "B8.14.5", "lines": ["A hundred thousand mailed and mounted men", "Set forth in ranks that stretched beyond the ken."]}, {"id": "B8.14.6", "lines": ["Their horses raised such dust across the way,", "The darkened air concealed the face of day."]}, {"id": "B8.14.7", "lines": ["For two full mil the tents and pavilions spread,", "While hooves and elephants concealed earth’s bed."]}, {"id": "B8.14.8", "lines": ["The air turned indigo, the earth grew black;", "The plain shook under every booming koust attack."]}, {"id": "B8.14.9", "lines": ["The khesht and zhupin flashed through dusty air,", "Like fire behind a lapis curtain’s glare."]}, {"id": "B8.14.10", "lines": ["Spearpoints and standards crowded every view,", "In countless shapes and colors as they flew."]}, {"id": "B8.14.11", "lines": ["Gold-covered shields and battle-gear shone bright,", "And scattered gleams through all the darkened light."]}, {"id": "B8.14.12", "lines": ["An ebony cloud gathered overhead,", "And showers of sandarac from darkness spread."]}, {"id": "B8.14.13", "lines": ["No man could tell if night or day remained,", "As though the Pleiades and heaven had waned."]}, {"id": "B8.14.14", "lines": ["They marched until the fortress rose ahead;", "Through dust, both stone and earth from sight had fled."]}, {"id": "B8.14.15", "lines": ["A watchman cried from high upon the wall:", "“The army has arrived before us all!”"]}, {"id": "B8.14.16", "lines": ["Sohrab climbed swiftly to the rampart’s height,", "And gazed across the vast and moving sight."]}, {"id": "B8.14.17", "lines": ["He pointed toward the ranks that filled the plain:", "“Look, Houman; shoreless rolls this human main.”"]}, {"id": "B8.14.18", "lines": ["When Houman saw the army’s endless sweep,", "His heart grew fearful and his breath drew deep."]}, {"id": "B8.14.19", "lines": ["Then Sohrab said: “Cast fear out of your heart;", "No worthy champion there can match my art."]}, {"id": "B8.14.20", "lines": ["Among that boundless force no gorz-wielding chief", "Can ride against me or bring them relief."]}, {"id": "B8.14.21", "lines": ["Though men and weapons crowd the field in might,", "No famed sepahbod comes before my sight."]}, {"id": "B8.14.22", "lines": ["Through Afrasiab’s fortune, on this plain", "I make a sea where now the dust has lain.”"]}, {"id": "B8.14.23", "lines": ["He climbed down from the wall, and had no care,", "His heart still joyful, free of all despair."]}, {"id": "B8.14.24", "lines": ["He called the wine-server: “Bring me a cup,”", "And drank, while battle waited to rise up."]}, {"id": "B8.14.25", "lines": ["Meanwhile before the fortress, on the plain,", "The Shah’s pavilion rose above his train."]}, {"id": "B8.14.26", "lines": ["So many tents, pavilions, men were spread,", "No space on plain or mountain showed its head."]}, {"id": "B8.15.1", "lines": ["At dusk, when night drew down its shadowed veil,", "And darkness spread across the mountain trail,"]}, {"id": "B8.15.2", "lines": ["Tahamtan came, his waist for battle bound,", "With vengeance in his heart, his purpose sound."]}, {"id": "B8.15.3", "lines": ["Before the Shah he stood and sought consent:", "“Let me go forth alone with this intent."]}, {"id": "B8.15.4", "lines": ["Without a helm or belt I shall discern", "The youth, his chiefs, and what command they earn.”"]}, {"id": "B8.15.5", "lines": ["Kavus replied: “This task becomes you well;", "Go forth alert, and may good fortune dwell."]}, {"id": "B8.15.6", "lines": ["May Yazdan guard you everywhere you go,", "And grant sound judgment as you face the foe.”"]}, {"id": "B8.15.7", "lines": ["In Turk-like guise, concealed from watchful eyes,", "He crossed the lines beneath the darkened skies."]}, {"id": "B8.15.8", "lines": ["He reached their camp and heard the Turks rejoice,", "With wine and revelry and shouting voice."]}, {"id": "B8.15.9", "lines": ["Like a male lion moving among deer,", "He passed unseen, without a trace of fear."]}, {"id": "B8.15.10", "lines": ["He viewed their chiefs and marked them one by one;", "His face bloomed bright at what his eyes had won."]}, {"id": "B8.15.11", "lines": ["He moved still deeper through the festive throng,", "Where lamps were bright and cups and music strong."]}, {"id": "B8.15.12", "lines": ["There Sohrab sat where lamps and wine were spread,", "In splendor on the feast-throne at the head."]}, {"id": "B8.15.13", "lines": ["Beside him Zhendeh Razm held one side,", "While Houman, Barman sat in equal pride."]}, {"id": "B8.15.14", "lines": ["Like some fresh cypress Sohrab filled the throne,", "In stature such as none around had shown."]}, {"id": "B8.15.15", "lines": ["His arms like camel thighs were thick with might,", "His chest a lion’s, broad and built for fight."]}, {"id": "B8.15.16", "lines": ["His face was blood-red, youthful, fierce, and bright;", "No peer among those warriors met his sight."]}, {"id": "B8.15.17", "lines": ["Around him sat a hundred youths in pride,", "Like mighty lions gathered at his side."]}, {"id": "B8.15.18", "lines": ["And fifty bracelet-wearing servants stood,", "Attending him with spirits bright and good,"]}, {"id": "B8.15.19", "lines": ["They praised his stature, sword, and signet ring,", "And blessed the fortune shining round their king."]}, {"id": "B8.15.20", "lines": ["Apart, unseen, the watchful Rostam lay,", "And marked the youth who ruled that bright display."]}, {"id": "B8.15.21", "lines": ["When Sohrab armed to march with spear and shield,", "Tahmineh called her brother from the field."]}, {"id": "B8.15.22", "lines": ["Zhendeh Razm, son of Samangan’s king,", "Was one whose aid she trusted in this thing."]}, {"id": "B8.15.23", "lines": ["He had seen Rostam at the feast before;", "She bade him journey with her son to war."]}, {"id": "B8.15.24", "lines": ["“When armies meet in battle on the field,", "Show him his father before lots are sealed.”"]}, {"id": "B8.15.25", "lines": ["Then Zhendeh Razm rose on some affair,", "And left the feast while music filled the air."]}, {"id": "B8.15.26", "lines": ["He saw a cypress-tall man in the shade,", "Whose equal nowhere in the ranks was made."]}, {"id": "B8.15.27", "lines": ["He came to Rostam, challenging aloud:", "“Who are you, stranger, hidden from the crowd?"]}, {"id": "B8.15.28", "lines": ["Come to the light and let me see your face;", "No unknown man walks freely through this place.”"]}, {"id": "B8.15.29", "lines": ["Then Rostam struck one fist against his neck;", "The blow allowed no warning and no check."]}, {"id": "B8.15.30", "lines": ["His soul departed at that single blow;", "He fell before he had a chance to know."]}, {"id": "B8.15.31", "lines": ["There Zhendeh’s days of feast and war were done;", "No banquet or new battle would be won."]}, {"id": "B8.15.32", "lines": ["Sohrab sat waiting, watching toward the door,", "But Zhendeh did not cross the banquet floor."]}, {"id": "B8.15.33", "lines": ["At last, he wondered at the long delay,", "And sent his men to seek him where he lay."]}, {"id": "B8.15.34", "lines": ["They went and found him fallen in the night,", "Struck down and stilled, deprived of life and might."]}, {"id": "B8.15.35", "lines": ["They cried aloud and hurried back in fear,", "To bear the dreadful tidings to his ear."]}, {"id": "B8.15.36", "lines": ["They told Sohrab: “Zhendeh Razm is slain.”", "Like smoke he rose and hurried through the train."]}, {"id": "B8.15.37", "lines": ["With servants, candles, minstrels to the place,", "He stood in shock before that lifeless face."]}, {"id": "B8.15.38", "lines": ["He called his wise and lion-hearted peers:", "“No man shall sleep; keep bright and ready spears."]}, {"id": "B8.15.39", "lines": ["A wolf has entered where our flock was penned,", "And tested dog and man from end to end."]}, {"id": "B8.15.40", "lines": ["It dragged one sheep from warriors standing round,", "And left it bloodied, humbled on the ground."]}, {"id": "B8.15.41", "lines": ["If the Creator lends His aid to me,", "When hoof strikes earth, my vengeance you shall see."]}, {"id": "B8.15.42", "lines": ["My kamand from the saddle I shall throw;", "On Iran’s ranks my vengeance then shall flow.”"]}, {"id": "B8.15.43", "lines": ["He turned and took his place upon the throne;", "Though Zhendeh’s empty seat stood stark and lone,"]}, {"id": "B8.15.44", "lines": ["The feast resumed, but joy had lost its flame;", "No cup could make the gathering seem the same."]}, {"id": "B8.15.45", "lines": ["Meanwhile unseen, great Rostam left their ground,", "And made his way where Iran’s guards were found."]}, {"id": "B8.15.46", "lines": ["There Giv kept watch; he saw a figure near,", "Drew sword and shield and challenged without fear."]}, {"id": "B8.15.47", "lines": ["He roared like some mad elephant at bay,", "And raised his shield to bar the stranger’s way."]}, {"id": "B8.15.48", "lines": ["Tahamtan knew that Giv kept watch that night,", "Iran’s own picket stationed for the fight."]}, {"id": "B8.15.49", "lines": ["But Rostam laughed and called to Giv nearby;", "Giv knew his voice and lowered sword from high."]}, {"id": "B8.15.50", "lines": ["On hearing Rostam, Giv dismounted then,", "And came on foot to meet the chief of men."]}, {"id": "B8.15.51", "lines": ["Giv asked him, “Where have you been all this night,", "Alone on foot beyond the guards’ dim sight?”"]}, {"id": "B8.15.52", "lines": ["Then Rostam told him all that he had done,", "And how one blow had slain the fallen one."]}, {"id": "B8.15.53", "lines": ["Giv blessed him: “May your horse and gopal stand,", "And saddle ever answer your command.”"]}, {"id": "B8.15.54", "lines": ["Then Rostam came before the Shah again,", "And told him of the feast of Turkish men."]}, {"id": "B8.15.55", "lines": ["He spoke of Sohrab’s height and arm in war,", "His strength and bearing none could long ignore."]}, {"id": "B8.15.56", "lines": ["“Among the Turks no youth like him has grown;", "A straight young cypress in the ranks was shown."]}, {"id": "B8.15.57", "lines": ["In all Iran or Turan none compares;", "You would say Sahm the horseman’s form he bears.”"]}, {"id": "B8.15.58", "lines": ["“Then Zhendeh Razm,” he said, “has breathed his last;", "He will not feast again nor face war’s blast.”"]}, {"id": "B8.15.59", "lines": ["They spoke awhile, then called for rud and wine,", "And held the feast until the dawn’s first sign."]}, {"id": "B8.15.60", "lines": ["Yet all the while the army stood prepared,", "In ordered ranks, with every weapon bared."]}, {"id": "B8.16.1", "lines": ["When morning raised its shield of burnished flame,", "A tongue of fire from heaven upward came."]}, {"id": "B8.16.2", "lines": ["Sohrab put on his jowshan, took his steed,", "A mighty bay charger born for warlike speed."]}, {"id": "B8.16.3", "lines": ["Across his chest an Indian saber lay,", "His helm flashed fiercely with the birth of day."]}, {"id": "B8.16.4", "lines": ["His kamand hung in coil on coil below,", "Prepared from saddle at the foe to throw."]}, {"id": "B8.16.5", "lines": ["He climbed a height and scanned the spreading plain,", "Where Iran’s troops lay stretched in ordered chain."]}, {"id": "B8.16.6", "lines": ["He summoned Hajir to the rocky height,", "And fixed him with a gaze as hard as night:"]}, {"id": "B8.16.7", "lines": ["“An arrow always flies straight toward its aim;", "Let truth, not cunning, govern word and name."]}, {"id": "B8.16.8", "lines": ["A bending arrow strikes with weakened might;", "The straight shaft finds its target in its flight."]}, {"id": "B8.16.9", "lines": ["Speak clearly now; let nothing false intrude,", "Nor cloak your thought in shadowed servitude."]}, {"id": "B8.16.10", "lines": ["Tell me the chiefs, the Shah, the troops arrayed;", "Speak truth, or learn how falsehood is repaid."]}, {"id": "B8.16.11", "lines": ["Speak truth, and from my hand you shall go free;", "In every gathering honored you shall be."]}, {"id": "B8.16.12", "lines": ["I offer wealth beyond what kings bestow;", "But crooked speech earns chains and prison’s woe.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.13", "lines": ["Hajir replied: “Ask what you wish to hear;", "I shall reply, free of deceit or fear."]}, {"id": "B8.16.14", "lines": ["Why should I twist the truth that I can give?", "A straight-told word is how the just must live."]}, {"id": "B8.16.15", "lines": ["No calling stands more honored among men", "Than keeping faith when truth is asked of them."]}, {"id": "B8.16.16", "lines": ["Deceit is loss that festers from within;", "It buys no gain, but multiplies the sin.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.17", "lines": ["Sohrab replied: “Then answer what I claim,", "Of every noble chief, each honored name."]}, {"id": "B8.16.18", "lines": ["Of Giv and Tus, of Gudarz, Bahram bold,", "Of Rostam; tell me all that can be told."]}, {"id": "B8.16.19", "lines": ["That brocade court before us richly spread,", "With leopard tents and elephants ahead,"]}, {"id": "B8.16.20", "lines": ["Seven-hued pavilions rise in royal state;", "A hundred elephants stand ranked in wait."]}, {"id": "B8.16.21", "lines": ["A turquoise throne beneath the golden shine,", "A sun-marked flag and golden moon align."]}, {"id": "B8.16.22", "lines": ["Who sits enthroned within those guarded walls?”", "Hajir replied: “The Shah commands those halls."]}, {"id": "B8.16.23", "lines": ["Before his court the elephants stand massed,", "And lion-hearted chiefs hold his realm fast.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.24", "lines": ["“And there,” said he, “upon the right I see", "A mass of riders drawn in symmetry."]}, {"id": "B8.16.25", "lines": ["Black tents enclose them, men in ordered pride,", "With baggage, troops, and tents on every side."]}, {"id": "B8.16.26", "lines": ["Behind them elephants stand dense and near,", "While golden boots flash bright from front to rear."]}, {"id": "B8.16.27", "lines": ["An elephant is stamped upon their sign;", "What chief commands beneath that battle line?”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.28", "lines": ["“Tus,” Hajir said, “of Nohzar’s kingly vine;", "His proven strength in war has made him shine.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.29", "lines": ["“And there,” said Sohrab, “those red ranks I mark,", "With lion banners blazing fierce and stark;"]}, {"id": "B8.16.30", "lines": ["Their lances burn; their jeweled banners glow,", "While steadfast warriors guard each ordered row."]}, {"id": "B8.16.31", "lines": ["What chief commands that blazing battle band?”", "Hajir replied: “Gudarz directs that stand."]}, {"id": "B8.16.32", "lines": ["Son of Keshvad, in war of proven skill,", "Whose strength and counsel bend all things to will."]}, {"id": "B8.16.33", "lines": ["Twice forty sons attend his lion line;", "No force withstands their onset or design.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.34", "lines": ["“Now there,” said Sohrab, “green pavilions rise,", "With ordered troops drawn up before my eyes."]}, {"id": "B8.16.35", "lines": ["A throne is raised where Kaveh’s flag appears;", "A giant warrior sits among his peers."]}, {"id": "B8.16.36", "lines": ["His shoulders vast, his stature raised in height,", "He stands a head above the gathered might."]}, {"id": "B8.16.37", "lines": ["Before him stands a charger fierce and tall,", "A beast that seems to thunder over all."]}, {"id": "B8.16.38", "lines": ["The charger roars until the ranks recoil;", "You would think the sea beneath its feet would boil."]}, {"id": "B8.16.39", "lines": ["His kamand hangs down to the charger’s feet,", "Prepared for any champion it may meet."]}, {"id": "B8.16.40", "lines": ["Armored elephants stand before his place,", "While he sits restless, fire upon his face."]}, {"id": "B8.16.41", "lines": ["No man in Iran rises to his height;", "No horse like his appears within my sight."]}, {"id": "B8.16.42", "lines": ["A dragon marks the banner at his side;", "What chief is this of such commanding pride?"]}, {"id": "B8.16.43", "lines": ["Above the dragon, on the spearpoint high,", "A golden lion gleams against the sky.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.44", "lines": ["Hajir thought deeply: “If I now reveal,", "This youth may strike before our wounds can heal."]}, {"id": "B8.16.45", "lines": ["Far better hide him than betray the land;", "Let silence guard the strength at Iran’s hand.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.46", "lines": ["He answered: “One from Chin came as a guest,", "A notable man the Shah received and blessed.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.47", "lines": ["Sohrab pressed on: “Then speak and name the man.”", "Hajir replied: “I do not know, nor can."]}, {"id": "B8.16.48", "lines": ["I was within the fortress when he came;", "That is the reason I cannot tell his name.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.49", "lines": ["Sohrab grew troubled, searching still in doubt;", "His mother’s signs stood plain and all about."]}, {"id": "B8.16.50", "lines": ["He saw them, every one, upon that field,", "Yet still his eyes refused what they revealed."]}, {"id": "B8.16.51", "lines": ["Again, he pressed, but fate had sealed his sight;", "Truth stood just past the boundary of his might."]}, {"id": "B8.16.52", "lines": ["“Whose camp lies there,” he asked, “so far apart,", "With wolf-marked banner raised above its heart?"]}, {"id": "B8.16.53", "lines": ["There horsemen, elephants, and ranks array;", "The karnay’s cry rolls thunder through the day."]}, {"id": "B8.16.54", "lines": ["Its golden wolf-head rises toward the height,", "A throne within, with servants robed in light.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.55", "lines": ["Hajir replied: “There Giv commands the band,", "A noble chief well honored in the land."]}, {"id": "B8.16.56", "lines": ["Son of Gudarz, foremost of his line,", "Rostam’s own son-in-law, in war he shines.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.57", "lines": ["“And there,” said he, “that white pavilion gleams,", "With ordered men arrayed in martial streams,"]}, {"id": "B8.16.58", "lines": ["More than a thousand horse before it glow,", "With shield- and javelin-bearers, row on row."]}, {"id": "B8.16.59", "lines": ["Within, one sits high on ivory throne;", "What prince is this whose rank is clearly shown?"]}, {"id": "B8.16.60", "lines": ["A teakwood seat on ivory, ornate;", "Rank after rank of servants stand and wait.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.61", "lines": ["Hajir replied: “There Fariborz you see,", "The Shah’s own son of royal pedigree.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.62", "lines": ["“And there,” said Sohrab, “those yellow lines I mark,", "With saffron banners burning through the dark,"]}, {"id": "B8.16.63", "lines": ["A boar is stamped upon the foremost sign,", "A silver moon crowns high the staff’s design."]}, {"id": "B8.16.64", "lines": ["What warrior leads that force?” Then Hajir cried:", "“Guraza leads, and holds firm at their side."]}, {"id": "B8.16.65", "lines": ["He comes from Givgan stock, alert and wise;", "Through pain and hardship, steadfast he will rise.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.66", "lines": ["Thus Sohrab sought the signs his father bore,", "While Hajir hid it, as he had before."]}, {"id": "B8.16.67", "lines": ["The World-Creator wrote what was to be;", "No hand escapes the course of destiny."]}, {"id": "B8.16.68", "lines": ["Again he asked of Rostam’s form and sign,", "The towering steed, the kamand’s looping twine."]}, {"id": "B8.16.69", "lines": ["Hajir replied: “I hide no name from you;", "That man from Chin is one I never knew.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.70", "lines": ["Sohrab grew sharp: “You hide what should be shown;", "You veil a truth that surely must be known."]}, {"id": "B8.16.71", "lines": ["That chief of chiefs could never stay concealed;", "His form would mark him out across the field."]}, {"id": "B8.16.72", "lines": ["You say he guards the marches of the land;", "Then why is he not here to take command?”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.73", "lines": ["Hajir replied: “He feasts in gardens fair,", "With wine and song, and free of battle’s care.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.74", "lines": ["Sohrab said: “Then shame must mark his name;", "He feasts while others march to meet the flame."]}, {"id": "B8.16.75", "lines": ["If he were here, he would lead the van in might,", "And stand where fiercest warriors join the fight."]}, {"id": "B8.16.76", "lines": ["If Rostam feasts while all the chiefs draw near,", "Then every tongue will turn to laugh and jeer.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.77", "lines": ["Sohrab continued: “Hear me and be plain;", "I ask but once; the truth I would obtain."]}, {"id": "B8.16.78", "lines": ["If you reveal the truth and guide me right,", "I will raise your rank and set your fortune bright."]}, {"id": "B8.16.79", "lines": ["I will fill your hands with gold beyond your need,", "And free your life from danger by the deed."]}, {"id": "B8.16.80", "lines": ["But if you hide the truth I now demand,", "Your life will fall beneath my single hand.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.81", "lines": ["The Mobad said, when wisdom he unsealed:", "“A word held back is like a gem concealed,"]}, {"id": "B8.16.82", "lines": ["Still held within the stone, beyond all sight;", "Once freed, it shines a jewel clear and bright.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.83", "lines": ["Hajir replied: “He seeks the strongest foe;", "The mightiest fall beneath his battle blow."]}, {"id": "B8.16.84", "lines": ["His anvil-breaking gorz can crush a band;", "Two hundred mighty bands fall at his hand."]}, {"id": "B8.16.85", "lines": ["Whoever meets him when the battle cries,", "May see his severed head hurled toward the skies."]}, {"id": "B8.16.86", "lines": ["No elephant alive can match his might;", "No champion stands before him in the fight."]}, {"id": "B8.16.87", "lines": ["Beside the dust that Rakhsh can raise in course,", "The Nile is nothing underneath his horse."]}, {"id": "B8.16.88", "lines": ["A hundred warriors’ strength is in his frame;", "No other man can bear so vast a name."]}, {"id": "B8.16.89", "lines": ["He towers higher than a lofty tree;", "No man beside him stands in symmetry."]}, {"id": "B8.16.90", "lines": ["When wrath consumes him in the battle’s course,", "No lion, elephant, or man can check his force."]}, {"id": "B8.16.91", "lines": ["When Rostam drives across the battle plain,", "No ordered rank before him can remain.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.92", "lines": ["Sohrab replied: “Your praise has passed all bound;", "No man so vast within the world is found."]}, {"id": "B8.16.93", "lines": ["Then woe to Gudarz, Keshvad’s noble line,", "If one like you should bear that house’s sign."]}, {"id": "B8.16.94", "lines": ["Why praise this Rostam past all measured worth?", "No man can carry such a fame on earth."]}, {"id": "B8.16.95", "lines": ["You make a giant greater than mankind;", "Such fear has clouded judgment in your mind."]}, {"id": "B8.16.96", "lines": ["Your fear is fire before the laughing sea;", "The ocean rests from any terror free."]}, {"id": "B8.16.97", "lines": ["What warriors have you seen in battle’s course?", "You have not heard the hoofbeats of a horse."]}, {"id": "B8.16.98", "lines": ["When the green sea rises, fire loses breath;", "Its racing flame sinks powerless toward death."]}, {"id": "B8.16.99", "lines": ["And darkness sleeps when from the eastern height", "The sun draws forth its sword of living light.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.100", "lines": ["Hajir then thought: “If truth I now reveal,", "This youth will break what none could hope to heal."]}, {"id": "B8.16.101", "lines": ["Better I die than loose this hidden flame,", "And bring on Iran everlasting shame."]}, {"id": "B8.16.102", "lines": ["If Rostam falls, no avenger can remain;", "Then Kavus’s throne may pass beneath his reign."]}, {"id": "B8.16.103", "lines": ["To die with honor is a worthy lot;", "To live while foes rejoice, a lasting blot."]}, {"id": "B8.16.104", "lines": ["Let warriors rise when I have met my death;", "Let vengeance follow on my final breath."]}, {"id": "B8.16.105", "lines": ["Besides myself, old Gudarz still can call", "On eighty valiant sons within his hall."]}, {"id": "B8.16.106", "lines": ["Giv, Bahram, Rohham, Shidush will remain,", "And none will leave my blood upon the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B8.16.107", "lines": ["Hajir stood firm and would not shift his ground;", "In silence still, his purpose held him bound."]}, {"id": "B8.16.108", "lines": ["He chose to die rather than tell the truth,", "And shield Iran from this destructive youth."]}, {"id": "B8.16.109", "lines": ["While cypress roots stand fast within the glade,", "The pheasant need not scent the common blade."]}, {"id": "B8.16.110", "lines": ["Then speaking out, he said: “Why seek that name?", "What need compels this restless search for fame?"]}, {"id": "B8.16.111", "lines": ["You ask what I know not, then threaten blood;", "Seek no false pretext for a crimson flood."]}, {"id": "B8.16.112", "lines": ["You seek to break Piltan upon the field;", "He is no easy man to force to yield."]}, {"id": "B8.16.113", "lines": ["Tahamtan will not yield beneath your blow;", "Seek not his battle; he will lay you low.”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.1", "lines": ["When Sohrab heard the warrior’s warning plain,", "His heart grew dark with doubt and inward pain."]}, {"id": "B8.17.2", "lines": ["He hid his face and answered not a word,", "Then turned aside, bewildered by what he heard."]}, {"id": "B8.17.3", "lines": ["He struck Hajir and cast him to the ground,", "Then stood in thought, by anger and purpose bound."]}, {"id": "B8.17.4", "lines": ["He girded up for vengeance, wrath his guide,", "And cast his golden crown at once aside."]}, {"id": "B8.17.5", "lines": ["He donned his jowshan, khaftan, for the fight,", "A Roman helmet on his head shone bright."]}, {"id": "B8.17.6", "lines": ["That mighty lion-youth took up his gear:", "His bow, his gorz, his kamand, and his spear."]}, {"id": "B8.17.7", "lines": ["His blood ran hot with ardor through each vein;", "He mounted fast and charged with loosened rein."]}, {"id": "B8.17.8", "lines": ["Like some mad elephant he stormed the field,", "His spear drove on; no warrior made him yield."]}, {"id": "B8.17.9", "lines": ["He drove ahead as dust rose toward the sky,", "And veiled the moon’s bright face as he swept by."]}, {"id": "B8.17.10", "lines": ["He struck the Shah’s pavilion, spear in hand,", "And lifted up its canopy so grand."]}, {"id": "B8.17.11", "lines": ["The chiefs fled off like Gur-e-Khars in dread,", "Before a lion with its claws outspread."]}, {"id": "B8.17.12", "lines": ["His foot in stirrup, hand upon the rein,", "His tempered spear flashed level on the plain."]}, {"id": "B8.17.13", "lines": ["They cried among themselves in anxious fear,", "“What monstrous champion are we facing here?"]}, {"id": "B8.17.14", "lines": ["An elephantine hero none can break,", "Whose very sight makes hardened warriors quake."]}, {"id": "B8.17.15", "lines": ["Who dares confront him in the open plain?", "What man will stand and not be struck or slain?”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.16", "lines": ["Then Sohrab raised his voice in scornful cry,", "And hurled his challenge to the monarch high:"]}, {"id": "B8.17.17", "lines": ["“O king who claims the realm and holds command,", "How fares your charge today? Where do you stand?"]}, {"id": "B8.17.18", "lines": ["Why bear the name of Kavus, famed in fight,", "If you cannot endure a lion’s might?"]}, {"id": "B8.17.19", "lines": ["If I but turn this spear within my fist,", "Your army’s life will vanish like a mist."]}, {"id": "B8.17.20", "lines": ["The night Zhendeh Razm died, I swore this vow,", "And bound it to the honor of my brow:"]}, {"id": "B8.17.21", "lines": ["No spearman of Iran shall keep his breath;", "And Kavus, hanged alive, shall meet his death."]}, {"id": "B8.17.22", "lines": ["Now send your champion forth to meet my hand;", "What man among you dares before me stand?”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.23", "lines": ["He spoke and waited; silence gripped the field,", "No voice from Iran’s gathered lines would yield."]}, {"id": "B8.17.24", "lines": ["He bent and tore the tent-pegs from the ground;", "At one great wrench, seventy came unbound."]}, {"id": "B8.17.25", "lines": ["One section of the royal tent caved in,", "And karnay thundered terror through the din."]}, {"id": "B8.17.26", "lines": ["Kavus cried out in fear to all his band,", "“O men of noble name throughout the land!"]}, {"id": "B8.17.27", "lines": ["Go bear this word to Rostam, tell him straight:", "A warrior comes who brings us bitter fate."]}, {"id": "B8.17.28", "lines": ["Our wits are lost before this Turk’s great might;", "No warrior remains to stand and fight."]}, {"id": "B8.17.29", "lines": ["No man of Iran dares to meet his hand;", "Go swiftly now and carry my command!”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.30", "lines": ["Then Tus went forth and told the hero all,", "And Rostam answered, hearing of the call:"]}, {"id": "B8.17.31", "lines": ["“Each former Shah who summoned me before", "Called me to feast, or else to wage a war."]}, {"id": "B8.17.32", "lines": ["But Kavus summons only strife and pain;", "No rest, no peace, but toil that yields no gain.”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.33", "lines": ["He looked and saw that Giv was standing near,", "While saddled Rakhsh stood ready in his gear."]}, {"id": "B8.17.34", "lines": ["And Gorgin cried, “Make haste! Delay no more!”", "While Rohham cinched the girth for coming war."]}, {"id": "B8.17.35", "lines": ["Tus brought the bargostvan for Rakhsh to wear,", "While every warrior armed and stood prepared."]}, {"id": "B8.17.36", "lines": ["“Make haste! Make haste!” The tumult filled the ground,", "And Rostam heard the rising, restless sound."]}, {"id": "B8.17.37", "lines": ["He thought, “Ahriman’s hand is in this fray;", "No single man could raise so wild an array.”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.38", "lines": ["He donned his Babr-e Bayan for the fight,", "And bound the Kayanian girdle tight."]}, {"id": "B8.17.39", "lines": ["He mounted Rakhsh and rode with purpose grim,", "And left Zavareh to command for him:"]}, {"id": "B8.17.40", "lines": ["“Advance not till my word is sent ahead;", "Obey no other order in my stead.”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.41", "lines": ["They bore his standard as he rode to war,", "Fierce for the fight, rage kindled long before."]}, {"id": "B8.17.42", "lines": ["He saw Sohrab’s great limbs and towering chest,", "As broad as Sahm, in strength above the rest."]}, {"id": "B8.17.43", "lines": ["He said, “Withdraw with me beyond the line,", "And let us test your strength alone with mine.”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.44", "lines": ["Then Sohrab rubbed his hands, well satisfied,", "And from the Iranian ranks he stepped aside:"]}, {"id": "B8.17.45", "lines": ["“Come then,” he said, “great men require no aid;", "Between us two this battle shall be weighed."]}, {"id": "B8.17.46", "lines": ["You have no place upon this battlefield;", "One blow from me would make your life-breath yield."]}, {"id": "B8.17.47", "lines": ["Your frame is vast, your limbs and neck are strong,", "But age has drained the force they bore so long.”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.48", "lines": ["Then Rostam studied Sohrab’s hands and height,", "His stature, breadth, and bearing for the fight."]}, {"id": "B8.17.49", "lines": ["Then Rostam looked upon the youth and spoke;", "No pride or anger through his answer broke:"]}, {"id": "B8.17.50", "lines": ["“Fair youth, the earth is cold and dry below,", "Though words between us warm and gentle flow."]}, {"id": "B8.17.51", "lines": ["These eyes have seen full many blood-soaked sands,", "And many Divs have fallen by these hands."]}, {"id": "B8.17.52", "lines": ["Yet never have I met defeat in war;", "Now let us try what fate has marked us for."]}, {"id": "B8.17.53", "lines": ["If you survive my hand when battle’s near,", "Then even nahang has no cause for fear."]}, {"id": "B8.17.54", "lines": ["Both sea and mountain saw what I have done", "Against Turan; the stars know battles won."]}, {"id": "B8.17.55", "lines": ["My strength has pressed the world beneath my feet,", "Yet pity stirs before our weapons meet."]}, {"id": "B8.17.56", "lines": ["Leave off the Turks; with Iran’s warriors stand;", "No equal arm or shoulder marks this land."]}, {"id": "B8.17.57", "lines": ["Do not throw such a noble life away;", "I have no wish to take your breath today.”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.58", "lines": ["At Rostam’s words, young Sohrab’s heart leapt high;", "He said, “One question; give me true reply."]}, {"id": "B8.17.59", "lines": ["Tell me the truth of your ancestral line,", "And make my heart rejoice with some clear sign."]}, {"id": "B8.17.60", "lines": ["I think that you are Rostam, Zal’s great son,", "Whose line from noble Nariman has run.”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.61", "lines": ["But Rostam answered, “Do not make that claim;", "I am not he, nor born of Zal’s great name."]}, {"id": "B8.17.62", "lines": ["Great Rostam is the Pahlevan in might;", "I am a lesser warrior in his sight."]}, {"id": "B8.17.63", "lines": ["I own no throne, nor share so high a fate;", "Nor do I hold his rank or royal state.”"]}, {"id": "B8.17.64", "lines": ["Sohrab despaired; all former hope withdrawn,", "And all the brightness faded from the dawn."]}, {"id": "B8.18.1", "lines": ["Sohrab, still musing on his mother’s word,", "Rode out with spear, his troubled spirit stirred."]}, {"id": "B8.18.2", "lines": ["They chose a narrow field, hard-packed and tight,", "And drove short spears together in the fight."]}, {"id": "B8.18.3", "lines": ["Their points were shattered and their shafts were shorn,", "Then both turned reins to left as shafts were torn."]}, {"id": "B8.18.4", "lines": ["Then wheeling round, with Indian blades they closed,", "And sparks like lightning from their weapons rose."]}, {"id": "B8.18.5", "lines": ["Their blades rang out like thunder, stroke on stroke,", "As if the Day of Doom upon them broke."]}, {"id": "B8.18.6", "lines": ["Then each took up the gorz with crushing might,", "And bent the iron in the press of fight."]}, {"id": "B8.18.7", "lines": ["Their horses’ bargostvans all fell and tore,", "While jowshans ripped beneath the blows they bore."]}, {"id": "B8.18.8", "lines": ["Their chargers reeled beneath the iron hail,", "The riders strained, their battered jowshans frail."]}, {"id": "B8.18.9", "lines": ["Their jowshans rent, their strength turned into pain;", "Both hands and arms grew weak beneath the strain."]}, {"id": "B8.18.10", "lines": ["With sweat-drenched limbs and mouths all choked with dust,", "Their tongues cracked dry beneath the battle’s thrust."]}, {"id": "B8.18.11", "lines": ["At length they parted, wearied to the bone,", "The father in grief, his son with courage flown."]}, {"id": "B8.18.12", "lines": ["O world! Your workings none can understand;", "Both whole and broken lie within your hand."]}, {"id": "B8.18.13", "lines": ["No love arose within that deadly space;", "Reason stood far; affection hid its face."]}, {"id": "B8.18.14", "lines": ["The Gur-e-Khars, the fish beneath the foam,", "Know their own young, however far they roam."]}, {"id": "B8.18.15", "lines": ["But man, through toil and desire led astray,", "Knows not his child when standing in his way."]}, {"id": "B8.18.16", "lines": ["Then Rostam thought: “I never yet have seen", "A nahang come to war with force so keen."]}, {"id": "B8.18.17", "lines": ["Compared with this, the White Div’s fight was light;", "This youth has made me doubt my former might."]}, {"id": "B8.18.18", "lines": ["The hand of one yet green upon the field,", "No famed or noble chief, has made me yield."]}, {"id": "B8.18.19", "lines": ["A youth unknown among the ranks of fame", "Has tested all the strength that bears my name."]}, {"id": "B8.18.20", "lines": ["Long years have brought me to my fill of strife;", "Two armies watch us struggle life for life.”"]}, {"id": "B8.18.21", "lines": ["Their steeds refreshed, their bows restrung for war,", "They wheeled and loosed their arrows as before."]}, {"id": "B8.18.22", "lines": ["The young and old stood equal in the test;", "No age gave either strength or ease or rest."]}, {"id": "B8.18.23", "lines": ["Jowshan, khaftan, Babr-e Bayan turned each course;", "No arrow pierced the armor with its force."]}, {"id": "B8.18.24", "lines": ["With troubled hearts, they seized each other’s belt,", "And grappled hard beneath the strain they felt."]}, {"id": "B8.18.25", "lines": ["Now Rostam, had he seized Black Mountain’s height,", "Would tear it free with overwhelming might."]}, {"id": "B8.18.26", "lines": ["Yet when he grasped his belt to cast him down,", "The youth sat firm upon the saddle’s crown."]}, {"id": "B8.18.27", "lines": ["His body yielded nothing to the strain,", "And Rostam’s practiced grip could nothing gain."]}, {"id": "B8.18.28", "lines": ["He loosed the girdle, stunned by what he found,", "And stared at Sohrab, rooted to the ground."]}, {"id": "B8.18.29", "lines": ["Both lion-warriors, weary from the toil,", "Drew back exhausted, sick of war’s turmoil."]}, {"id": "B8.18.30", "lines": ["Sohrab raised high his heavy gorz again,", "And spurred his steed to strike at Rostam then."]}, {"id": "B8.18.31", "lines": ["He struck the hero’s shoulder, gorz in hand,", "Yet Rostam bore the pain and still could stand."]}, {"id": "B8.18.32", "lines": ["Sohrab laughed loud: “You cannot bear the blows", "A champion gives when battle round you grows."]}, {"id": "B8.18.33", "lines": ["Your horse seems an ass beneath you in fight;", "Your hands alone still show a warrior’s might."]}, {"id": "B8.18.34", "lines": ["Though cypress-tall, old age is on your head;", "Youth makes an old man foolish in its stead.”"]}, {"id": "B8.18.35", "lines": ["Each weakened under what the other dealt;", "The field grew narrow from the force they felt."]}, {"id": "B8.18.36", "lines": ["Each, humbled by the other, turned away,", "Troubled in heart and spirit from the fray."]}, {"id": "B8.18.37", "lines": ["Then Rostam, leopard-like, attacked their side,", "And scattered Turanian troops both far and wide."]}, {"id": "B8.18.38", "lines": ["Then Sohrab struck at Iran’s gathered force,", "And loosed among their ranks his battle-horse."]}, {"id": "B8.18.39", "lines": ["His gorz struck many famed men to the ground,", "And broken ranks fled wildly all around."]}, {"id": "B8.18.40", "lines": ["Wolf-like, he scattered every rank alike,", "And none could stand before his deadly strike."]}, {"id": "B8.18.41", "lines": ["Then Rostam’s heart grew dark with inward dread;", "“Kavus shall suffer from this youth,” he said."]}, {"id": "B8.18.42", "lines": ["“This newly risen Turk in khaftan strong,", "With arms like these, will bring us harm before long.”"]}, {"id": "B8.18.43", "lines": ["He hastened back toward camp with anxious mind,", "And there beheld the slaughter left behind."]}, {"id": "B8.18.44", "lines": ["He saw Sohrab amid the shattered dead,", "The earth beneath him ruby-dark and red."]}, {"id": "B8.18.45", "lines": ["His spearpoint, khaftan, hands were red with blood;", "Hunt-drunk he seemed amid that crimson flood."]}, {"id": "B8.18.46", "lines": ["Then Rostam, raging like a lion, cried:", "“Bloodthirsty Turk! Whom have you now defied?"]}, {"id": "B8.18.47", "lines": ["Why stretch your hand against the whole array,", "Like wolf among the flock that bars your way?”"]}, {"id": "B8.18.48", "lines": ["Sohrab replied: “Turan’s army had no share", "In this affair; no guilt was theirs to bear."]}, {"id": "B8.18.49", "lines": ["You turned against them first and sought the fight;", "No man among them challenged you outright.”"]}, {"id": "B8.18.50", "lines": ["“The day grows dark,” said Rostam. “Night is near;", "Tomorrow’s sword will make the outcome clear."]}, {"id": "B8.18.51", "lines": ["This field holds gallows, pulpit, both arrayed;", "The shining world lies underneath the blade."]}, {"id": "B8.18.52", "lines": ["May you not die, who lift the blade so young", "That still the milk is scented on your tongue."]}, {"id": "B8.18.53", "lines": ["At break of day our vengeful swords shall test", "What the World-Creator wills; till then, we rest.”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.1", "lines": ["They parted, and the face of air grew dim;", "The heavens stood astonished over him."]}, {"id": "B8.19.2", "lines": ["It seemed his warfare shaped the very sky,", "That knew no rest while he kept charging by."]}, {"id": "B8.19.3", "lines": ["His steed seemed iron, bronze his mighty frame;", "His spirit seemed a wonder none could name."]}, {"id": "B8.19.4", "lines": ["Dark night had fallen as he reached his tent,", "His waist chafed sore by iron battles spent."]}, {"id": "B8.19.5", "lines": ["Sohrab said: “Today the sun arose;", "The world grew full of battle’s cries and blows."]}, {"id": "B8.19.6", "lines": ["What did that daring rider say to you,", "With lion’s claws and champions’ bearing too?"]}, {"id": "B8.19.7", "lines": ["What came upon my army in the fray?", "No man like him I know beneath the day."]}, {"id": "B8.19.8", "lines": ["What did he say, what did his strong arm show?", "He matched my strength when we exchanged each blow."]}, {"id": "B8.19.9", "lines": ["Though old, he seems a lion fierce and dire;", "Of war and combat he can never tire."]}, {"id": "B8.19.10", "lines": ["Across the world I know no other man", "Who girds for vengeance as that warrior can.”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.11", "lines": ["Then Houman said: “The Shah commanded, ‘Stay’;", "Our army was not to move from here today."]}, {"id": "B8.19.12", "lines": ["The moment battle opened on the plain,", "Our every undertaking turned to pain."]}, {"id": "B8.19.13", "lines": ["One battle-seeking warrior came in sight,", "And turned against our mighty ranks to fight."]}, {"id": "B8.19.14", "lines": ["He seemed as though from drunkenness awake,", "To wage the whole war single-handed for its sake."]}, {"id": "B8.19.15", "lines": ["He raised the dust of battle far and wide,", "And many of our fighting men there died."]}, {"id": "B8.19.16", "lines": ["Then turning back, he spurred his horse away,", "And raced toward his own army from the fray.”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.17", "lines": ["Sohrab replied: “Yet none among our brave", "And famous champions did he send to grave."]}, {"id": "B8.19.18", "lines": ["I laid full many men of Iran low,", "And mixed the earth with blood beneath each blow."]}, {"id": "B8.19.19", "lines": ["While you did nothing more than stand and see;", "None came to aid; what use was that to me?"]}, {"id": "B8.19.20", "lines": ["Had even a lion dared to cross my way,", "My heavy gorz would never let it stray."]}, {"id": "B8.19.21", "lines": ["The tiger, leopard, lion I disdain;", "My arrowhead draws fire down like rain."]}, {"id": "B8.19.22", "lines": ["When warriors meet the fury in my eyes,", "The armor on their bodies breaks and flies."]}, {"id": "B8.19.23", "lines": ["Tomorrow dawns the great day of the fight;", "The wolf from sheep shall stand revealed to sight."]}, {"id": "B8.19.24", "lines": ["By God, the World-Creator, this is true:", "No enemy shall live when battle’s through."]}, {"id": "B8.19.25", "lines": ["Now spread the board and bring the wine tonight,", "And wash the grief from every heart with delight.”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.26", "lines": ["Then Rostam looked upon his army’s state,", "And spoke with Giv of what had passed of late."]}, {"id": "B8.19.27", "lines": ["He asked, “How did that battle-testing youth", "Set foot in combat today? Tell me the truth.”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.28", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “No champion have we seen", "Like him in battle, terrible and keen."]}, {"id": "B8.19.29", "lines": ["He thundered to the center in his course,", "And sought out Tus in vengeance from his horse."]}, {"id": "B8.19.30", "lines": ["Tus stood on foot, his spear held for the fight;", "As one came down, the other mounted light."]}, {"id": "B8.19.31", "lines": ["When Sohrab saw him with the spear held high,", "He roared just like a lion with its cry."]}, {"id": "B8.19.32", "lines": ["His curving gorz crashed hard against his breast;", "The helmet flew beneath that savage test."]}, {"id": "B8.19.33", "lines": ["Tus could not stand against him and withdrew;", "Then many champions sought the combat too."]}, {"id": "B8.19.34", "lines": ["No champion there could rise to match his might;", "Save Piltan, none stood equal in the fight."]}, {"id": "B8.19.35", "lines": ["We kept the ancient custom of the field;", "No army moved against him, spear or shield."]}, {"id": "B8.19.36", "lines": ["No rider dared alone to seek the fray;", "We yielded him the field and stood away."]}, {"id": "B8.19.37", "lines": ["No horseman then approached him one by one;", "He ranged from center to the right beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B8.19.38", "lines": ["From side to side he thundered in his course;", "Beneath him proudly pranced his battle-horse.”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.39", "lines": ["Then Rostam heard, and sorrow filled his breast;", "He went to Kavus with a heart oppressed."]}, {"id": "B8.19.40", "lines": ["The Shah beheld the Pahlevan draw near,", "And placed his seat beside the throne, held dear."]}, {"id": "B8.19.41", "lines": ["Then Rostam spoke of Sohrab’s height and force,", "And told the Shah his strength throughout the course."]}, {"id": "B8.19.42", "lines": ["“No youth so young has ever shown such might,", "Such lion-manhood in the press of fight."]}, {"id": "B8.19.43", "lines": ["He reaches toward the stars with towering height;", "The earth can scarcely hold his form upright."]}, {"id": "B8.19.44", "lines": ["His arms and thighs were camel-thick and strong;", "His force in battle rose above the throng."]}, {"id": "B8.19.45", "lines": ["With sword and arrow, gorz and coiled kamand,", "We tested every weapon hand to hand."]}, {"id": "B8.19.46", "lines": ["At last I thought, ‘How many in my day", "Have I raised from the saddle and cast away.’"]}, {"id": "B8.19.47", "lines": ["I seized the leather girdle at his side,", "And all my strength against the binding tried."]}, {"id": "B8.19.48", "lines": ["I meant to wrench him headlong from his seat,", "And cast him down as others at my feet."]}, {"id": "B8.19.49", "lines": ["Had mountain rock been loosened by the gale,", "I still could not unseat that youth or make him fail."]}, {"id": "B8.19.50", "lines": ["I turned away because the hour was late;", "The moonless night had closed the field’s dark gate."]}, {"id": "B8.19.51", "lines": ["Tomorrow we shall meet once more and try", "Our strength in single wrestling, he and I."]}, {"id": "B8.19.52", "lines": ["I shall strive hard and see who wins the fight,", "And learn from that what Yazdan deems is right."]}, {"id": "B8.19.53", "lines": ["For victory and power come from His hand;", "He made the sun and moon at His command.”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.54", "lines": ["Then Kavus said: “May pure Yazdan rend", "The evil-wisher who would bring your end."]}, {"id": "B8.19.55", "lines": ["Tonight before the Maker I shall bow,", "And press my face upon the earth in vow,"]}, {"id": "B8.19.56", "lines": ["That He may grant you power over your foe,", "This evil Turk who brings us grief and woe."]}, {"id": "B8.19.57", "lines": ["May He renew your withered fortune’s flame,", "And raise up to the sun your honored name.”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.58", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “With royal farr as guide,", "Each worthy wish shall surely be supplied.”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.59", "lines": ["Back to his camp the Pahlevan withdrew,", "Deep in his thoughts, with vengeance still in view."]}, {"id": "B8.19.60", "lines": ["Then Zavareh came near with wounded heart:", "“How went today’s fight for you from the start?”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.61", "lines": ["Rostam first asked for food and ate his fill,", "Then washed troubling thought from heart and will."]}, {"id": "B8.19.62", "lines": ["He told his brother: “Keep your senses clear;", "Be watchful; do not let rash haste draw near."]}, {"id": "B8.19.63", "lines": ["At early dawn, when I go to the plain", "To meet that Turk whose challenge does not wane,"]}, {"id": "B8.19.64", "lines": ["Bring forth my army, standard, throne of state,", "And golden boots; have everything await."]}, {"id": "B8.19.65", "lines": ["Stand massed before my royal tent and gate,", "When from the east the risen sun stands straight."]}, {"id": "B8.19.66", "lines": ["If I prevail when battle is begun,", "I will not linger when the field is won."]}, {"id": "B8.19.67", "lines": ["But if the matter turns another way,", "Do not lament or give your hearts to dismay."]}, {"id": "B8.19.68", "lines": ["Let not one man ride out to take my stead;", "Seek no new battle if you find me dead."]}, {"id": "B8.19.69", "lines": ["Go all together back to Zabul’s plain;", "Seek out Dastan; from new battle refrain."]}, {"id": "B8.19.70", "lines": ["And you, make my dear mother’s heart content:", "‘This judgment Yazdan on my head has sent.’"]}, {"id": "B8.19.71", "lines": ["Tell her: ‘Do not bind your heart to mine,", "Nor grieve forever after my decline."]}, {"id": "B8.19.72", "lines": ["No mortal in this world forever stays;", "I blame not heaven for the end of days."]}, {"id": "B8.19.73", "lines": ["I slew the lion, Div, the leopard strong,", "And brought the nahang low through battles long."]}, {"id": "B8.19.74", "lines": ["I leveled fortresses throughout the land;", "No foe has ever gained the upper hand."]}, {"id": "B8.19.75", "lines": ["Who sets his foot in stirrup to depart", "Has knocked at death’s own door before the start."]}, {"id": "B8.19.76", "lines": ["Though life should reach a thousand years or more,", "The road and outcome wait at the same door."]}, {"id": "B8.19.77", "lines": ["Remember lofty Jamshid’s royal height,", "And Tahmuras, who bound the Divs in might."]}, {"id": "B8.19.78", "lines": ["The world remained for neither; both have passed;", "I too must take this road; my lot is cast.’"]}, {"id": "B8.19.79", "lines": ["Then tell Dastan this counsel from his son:", "‘Turn not away from Iran’s sovereign one."]}, {"id": "B8.19.80", "lines": ["If Kavus makes for war, do not delay;", "Go as the Shah commands in every way."]}, {"id": "B8.19.81", "lines": ["For old and young alike must meet their end;", "No one remains forever, foe or friend.’”"]}, {"id": "B8.19.82", "lines": ["Half of the night was spent on Sohrab’s tale;", "The other half in sleep beneath night’s veil."]}, {"id": "B8.20.1", "lines": ["The sun rose bright; the raven of the night", "Folded her black-plumed wings and left the height."]}, {"id": "B8.20.2", "lines": ["Then Rostam donned his Babr-e Bayan bright,", "And armed his chest to meet the coming fight."]}, {"id": "B8.20.3", "lines": ["He mounted Rakhsh, a dragon fierce and fleet,", "Whose fury shook the earth beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "B8.20.4", "lines": ["Two farsangs lay between each army’s place;", "No warrior dared to cross the empty space."]}, {"id": "B8.20.5", "lines": ["An iron helmet fitted to his head,", "Great Rostam rode toward the field of dread."]}, {"id": "B8.20.6", "lines": ["All bitterness is born of grasping greed;", "May kinship never serve that bitter need."]}, {"id": "B8.20.7", "lines": ["Young Sohrab drank among his gathered men,", "While rud strings sounded; then he spoke again:"]}, {"id": "B8.20.8", "lines": ["“That lion-warrior who has faced my might", "Is like myself in stature and in height."]}, {"id": "B8.20.9", "lines": ["In shoulder, arm, and breast we seem the same,", "As though one hand had shaped us both in frame."]}, {"id": "B8.20.10", "lines": ["His foot, his stirrup, and his rider’s seat", "Awake a tenderness I cannot defeat."]}, {"id": "B8.20.11", "lines": ["I mark those signs and feel affection rise;", "A sudden shame comes warm across my eyes."]}, {"id": "B8.20.12", "lines": ["My mother spoke of signs that I now see;", "They rise again and stand revealed to me."]}, {"id": "B8.20.13", "lines": ["My heart forewarns me he may be that man,", "Whose name is honored wide in every land."]}, {"id": "B8.20.14", "lines": ["Few bear such likeness; few could stand so tall;", "No common warrior answers to that call."]}, {"id": "B8.20.15", "lines": ["I fear to strike; what if this man should be", "The one my mother named with tears to me?"]}, {"id": "B8.20.16", "lines": ["How could I raise my hand against his face,", "If he and I are bound by blood and race?”"]}, {"id": "B8.20.17", "lines": ["Then Houman said: “I faced him in the field;", "I heard what Mazandaran was forced to yield."]}, {"id": "B8.20.18", "lines": ["That rider’s Rakhsh has something of the same;", "Yet strikes the ground not as the true one came,"]}, {"id": "B8.20.19", "lines": ["Nor leaves the selfsame print upon the ground;", "In hoof and gait, true Rakhsh is not so found.”"]}, {"id": "B8.20.20", "lines": ["At break of dawn the sun began to rise,", "And waking warriors opened battle-eyes."]}, {"id": "B8.20.21", "lines": ["Sohrab put on his khaftan for the fight;", "His head held war, his heart the feast’s delight."]}, {"id": "B8.20.22", "lines": ["He came roaring across the battlefield,", "An ox-headed gorz his mighty hand would wield."]}, {"id": "B8.20.23", "lines": ["He came to Rostam smiling, free of guile,", "As though last night they shared the feast awhile."]}, {"id": "B8.20.24", "lines": ["“How passed your night? How fares your strength today?", "Why turn again toward strife and bloody fray?"]}, {"id": "B8.20.25", "lines": ["Cast down your gorz and sword; lay vengeance by;", "Let hatred fade and anger’s fire die."]}, {"id": "B8.20.26", "lines": ["Come, let us leave this battlefield aside,", "And feast together, seated side by side."]}, {"id": "B8.20.27", "lines": ["Let wine restore the spirit and the mind,", "And leave the rage of war and death behind."]}, {"id": "B8.20.28", "lines": ["Before the World-Creator turn from blood,", "And choose a path kept clean of war’s dark flood."]}, {"id": "B8.20.29", "lines": ["My heart turns toward you with a strange accord;", "Shame wets my face before I lift the sword."]}, {"id": "B8.20.30", "lines": ["Reveal yourself; concealment brings no gain;", "A worthy man should speak his name out plain."]}, {"id": "B8.20.31", "lines": ["Tell me your lineage, speak and make it known;", "What house and heritage you call your own."]}, {"id": "B8.20.32", "lines": ["Are you not Rostam, sprung from Zal’s great line,", "Whose glory through the ages still shall shine?”"]}, {"id": "B8.20.33", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered, steady, cold, and clear:", "“You speak too boldly of a name you hear."]}, {"id": "B8.20.34", "lines": ["Last night we spoke, not thus, but of the test", "Of strength in wrestling, where the brave are pressed."]}, {"id": "B8.20.35", "lines": ["Do not suppose such words can lead me wrong;", "I will not be deceived, however strong."]}, {"id": "B8.20.36", "lines": ["Though you are young, I am no child to cheat,", "Nor one to cast my arms down in defeat."]}, {"id": "B8.20.37", "lines": ["I stand for combat, firm in what I do;", "The end shall show what fate has set for you."]}, {"id": "B8.20.38", "lines": ["I have seen fortune rise and fall from view;", "I trust no trick, nor any scheme untrue.”"]}, {"id": "B8.20.39", "lines": ["Then Sohrab’s face grew hard, his voice grew cold:", "“You have rejected all that I have told."]}, {"id": "B8.20.40", "lines": ["I wished your life might end at home in bed,", "Not here beneath a warrior’s hand lie dead."]}, {"id": "B8.20.41", "lines": ["I would have spared you from a soldier’s end,", "And left your kin the proper rites to tend."]}, {"id": "B8.20.42", "lines": ["But now, if Yazdan has decreed it so,", "My hand shall strike and lay your body low.”"]}, {"id": "B8.20.43", "lines": ["They left their steeds and stepped upon the ground,", "Then faced each other where no man stood round."]}, {"id": "B8.20.44", "lines": ["They tied their battle-steeds to stones nearby,", "Their hearts oppressed beneath the open sky."]}, {"id": "B8.20.45", "lines": ["They grappled then like lions locked in strain,", "Their bodies pressed in fury and in pain."]}, {"id": "B8.20.46", "lines": ["From dawn they struggled, neither gave nor bent,", "Each testing strength with full and fierce intent."]}, {"id": "B8.20.47", "lines": ["Their sweat and blood ran freely in the fight,", "Yet neither yielded ground nor broke outright."]}, {"id": "B8.20.48", "lines": ["At last Sohrab surged forward like a wave,", "With sudden force no mortal strength could brave."]}, {"id": "B8.20.49", "lines": ["He seized the girdle with a sudden strength,", "And wrenched so hard the field shook through its length."]}, {"id": "B8.20.50", "lines": ["He gave a cry that shook the battleground;", "It seemed earth’s face had split beneath the sound."]}, {"id": "B8.20.51", "lines": ["He raised the hero, hurled him to the ground,", "With all his mighty weight and force profound."]}, {"id": "B8.20.52", "lines": ["He pinned him like a lion with its kill,", "A male Gur-e-Khar helpless to its will."]}, {"id": "B8.20.53", "lines": ["Dust filled the air and covered Rostam’s face,", "As Sohrab held him firmly in that place."]}, {"id": "B8.20.54", "lines": ["Then Sohrab drew his water-blue khanjar bright,", "Prepared to sever Rostam’s head outright."]}, {"id": "B8.20.55", "lines": ["But Rostam cried: “O lion-catcher, stay;", "O kamand-thrower, hear what I must say."]}, {"id": "B8.20.56", "lines": ["For gorz and sword and arrow, custom knows", "A law our fathers kept against their foes."]}, {"id": "B8.20.57", "lines": ["One fall alone gives no man leave to kill;", "A second throw must prove the victor still."]}, {"id": "B8.20.58", "lines": ["Only the second fall permits the blow;", "Then custom grants the right to slay the foe."]}, {"id": "B8.20.59", "lines": ["No man will call this killing foul or base;", "Among our ranks, such custom has its place.”"]}, {"id": "B8.20.60", "lines": ["So Rostam spoke, to save his life and breath,", "And turn aside the hand that threatened death."]}, {"id": "B8.20.61", "lines": ["By cunning still he sought to break away", "From dragon’s grasp and live another day."]}, {"id": "B8.20.62", "lines": ["The young man bowed to what the elder said,", "And took the words as truth within his head."]}, {"id": "B8.20.63", "lines": ["One cause was courage, second was the time;", "The third his javanmardi at its prime."]}, {"id": "B8.20.64", "lines": ["He turned away into the desert wide,", "Where antelope went crossing at his side,"]}, {"id": "B8.20.65", "lines": ["And gave himself to hunting all that day,", "Nor thought of him he left upon the clay."]}, {"id": "B8.20.66", "lines": ["After a time came Houman to his tent,", "And questioned him on how the combat went."]}, {"id": "B8.20.67", "lines": ["Sohrab described the struggle from the start;", "Then Houman cried with terror in his heart:"]}, {"id": "B8.20.68", "lines": ["“Have you grown weary of your life and name?", "Why cast away the fruit of strength and fame?"]}, {"id": "B8.20.69", "lines": ["Your stature, stirrup, strength deserved more thought;", "Why loose the lion you had fought and caught?"]}, {"id": "B8.20.70", "lines": ["The lion you had held within your hand,", "Now freed, will rise again and make his stand."]}, {"id": "B8.20.71", "lines": ["You let him go when death was in your grasp;", "Now fear the day you draw your final gasp."]}, {"id": "B8.20.72", "lines": ["Tomorrow’s fight will show what this has cost;", "Such foolish mercy may leave all things lost."]}, {"id": "B8.20.73", "lines": ["A wise man once declared this warning plain:", "No foe is small, nor any threat is vain.”"]}, {"id": "B8.20.74", "lines": ["He spoke; then Houman gave up hope for him,", "And stood amazed, his heart with sorrow dim."]}, {"id": "B8.20.75", "lines": ["Yet Sohrab said: “Put all such fears away;", "Tomorrow’s fight will show what fate will say."]}, {"id": "B8.20.76", "lines": ["He will return, and then you all shall see", "His neck beneath the yoke imposed by me.”"]}, {"id": "B8.20.77", "lines": ["He turned aside, still angered by his choice,", "And went to camp, still hearing Houman’s voice."]}, {"id": "B8.20.78", "lines": ["But Rostam rose, a cypress as before,", "Released from Sohrab’s grip and death’s dark door."]}, {"id": "B8.20.79", "lines": ["He sought a running stream with weary tread,", "Like one whose soul returned to one thought dead."]}, {"id": "B8.20.80", "lines": ["He drank and washed the dust from head and frame,", "Then prayed before the World-Creator’s name."]}, {"id": "B8.20.81", "lines": ["He did not know what sun and moon designed,", "Nor what the hidden portion they assigned."]}, {"id": "B8.20.82", "lines": ["Nor how the turning heavens would descend,", "And strip his crown when fortune reached its end."]}, {"id": "B8.20.83", "lines": ["Men say the Maker gave him strength so great,", "His feet sank deep in stone beneath his weight."]}, {"id": "B8.20.84", "lines": ["That boundless strength became a crushing load;", "He prayed to Yazdan as he walked the road."]}, {"id": "B8.20.85", "lines": ["Pure Yazdan heard and eased his mountain frame,", "And curbed the strength no mortal force could tame."]}, {"id": "B8.20.86", "lines": ["But facing Sohrab, fear had pierced his heart;", "He sought the strength that once had set him apart."]}, {"id": "B8.20.87", "lines": ["He prayed once more: “Pure Yazdan, strength restore;", "Grant me the power that once I held before.”"]}, {"id": "B8.20.88", "lines": ["Pure Yazdan heard, and strength returned, and grew;", "His limbs regained the mighty force they knew."]}, {"id": "B8.20.89", "lines": ["He turned toward battle, pale and deep in thought,", "And sought again the youthful foe he fought."]}, {"id": "B8.20.90", "lines": ["Like a mad elephant Sohrab charged the foe,", "Kamand on arm, and in his hand his bow."]}, {"id": "B8.20.91", "lines": ["His lion’s roar rolled over all the ground,", "His stallion made the earth and world resound."]}, {"id": "B8.20.92", "lines": ["When Rostam saw him charging in his wrath,", "He stared in wonder, weighed him on his path."]}, {"id": "B8.20.93", "lines": ["When Sohrab saw him, youthful pride arose;", "He marked his farr and strength before the blows."]}, {"id": "B8.20.94", "lines": ["“You slipped alive from my lion’s grasp;", "Why come again where these same hands can clasp?"]}, {"id": "B8.20.95", "lines": ["Why have you come again before my sight?", "You turn your face from truth and what is right.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.1", "lines": ["They tied their steeds while hostile fortune wheeled,", "And doom above them shaped what fate concealed."]}, {"id": "B8.21.2", "lines": ["When fate grows harsh and lifts its hidden hand,", "Hard stone grows soft beneath its stern command."]}, {"id": "B8.21.3", "lines": ["They closed in wrestling, belt to belt they strained,", "Each testing what the other’s strength retained."]}, {"id": "B8.21.4", "lines": ["Sohrab’s strength seemed fettered in the fight,", "As though high heaven had bound his arms outright."]}, {"id": "B8.21.5", "lines": ["Then Rostam, troubled, seized him by the neck,", "The warlike nahang, holding him in check."]}, {"id": "B8.21.6", "lines": ["The gallant youth, whose time had reached its end,", "Felt strength depart and could no more contend."]}, {"id": "B8.21.7", "lines": ["Then like a lion striking down its prey,", "Rostam dashed Sohrab upon earth that day."]}, {"id": "B8.21.8", "lines": ["He knew the youth would rise if left alive,", "And drew his khanjar lest he should revive."]}, {"id": "B8.21.9", "lines": ["He struck and opened wide the fallen breast;", "By that dark blow, fate’s sentence stood expressed."]}, {"id": "B8.21.10", "lines": ["Who thirsts for blood and stains the water-blue blade", "Shall find that Time has thirst for him repaid,"]}, {"id": "B8.21.11", "lines": ["And every hair upon his body then", "Shall turn into a khanjar’s point again."]}, {"id": "B8.21.12", "lines": ["Sohrab writhed and breathed a bitter sigh,", "Then left all thought of good and ill to die."]}, {"id": "B8.21.13", "lines": ["He said: “This came upon me from my deed;", "And Time placed in your hand what fate decreed."]}, {"id": "B8.21.14", "lines": ["You bear no guilt; crooked Time’s command", "Raised me, then struck me down with its own hand."]}, {"id": "B8.21.15", "lines": ["My peers will make a mockery of my name,", "That one so tall lies dust-bound in his shame."]}, {"id": "B8.21.16", "lines": ["My mother told me how to know my sire;", "I sought him long with hope and deep desire."]}, {"id": "B8.21.17", "lines": ["I searched in love, and now in grief I die,", "My labor lost beneath this turning sky."]}, {"id": "B8.21.18", "lines": ["My quest is vain; in vain my labor wrought;", "I die without one sight of him I sought."]}, {"id": "B8.21.19", "lines": ["Though he were fish concealed beneath the sea,", "Or hidden deep where night itself might be,"]}, {"id": "B8.21.20", "lines": ["Or like a star beyond all mortal sight,", "My father still would rise to avenge my plight."]}, {"id": "B8.21.21", "lines": ["When brick becomes the pillow for my head,", "My father will avenge this blood I shed."]}, {"id": "B8.21.22", "lines": ["Some warrior yet will bear to him this claim:", "‘Your son who sought you lies in grief and shame.’”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.23", "lines": ["Then Rostam heard, and all his senses failed;", "The world grew dark; his face and spirit paled."]}, {"id": "B8.21.24", "lines": ["He fell upon the ground in stunned despair,", "And lay there senseless, stripped of strength and care."]}, {"id": "B8.21.25", "lines": ["At last he rose, his voice a broken thread:", "“What sign of Rostam do you bear?” he said."]}, {"id": "B8.21.26", "lines": ["“I am that Rostam; let my name depart;", "No warrior speak it when my life shall part."]}, {"id": "B8.21.27", "lines": ["And let Zal, son of Sahm, sit down this day", "And mourn my death, and mourn my name away!”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.28", "lines": ["He tore his hair and raged in anguish wild,", "While near him lay the stricken, dying child."]}, {"id": "B8.21.29", "lines": ["When Sohrab saw him thus, his senses fled;", "He swooned, then woke and raised his weary head:"]}, {"id": "B8.21.30", "lines": ["“If you are Rostam, then you struck me dead,", "By harshness and blind anger you were led."]}, {"id": "B8.21.31", "lines": ["I gave you every sign in every way,", "Yet not one grain of love was stirred today."]}, {"id": "B8.21.32", "lines": ["Undo my jowshan, bare my arm and see", "The token that my mother gave to me."]}, {"id": "B8.21.33", "lines": ["When koust resounded as I left her door,", "My mother came with blood-streaked cheeks before."]}, {"id": "B8.21.34", "lines": ["My leaving wounded deep her loving breast;", "She bound this token on my arm and pressed:"]}, {"id": "B8.21.35", "lines": ["‘This came from your father; guard it well,", "And see what use its hidden sign may tell.’"]}, {"id": "B8.21.36", "lines": ["Now it has served when service comes too late;", "The son lies shamed before his father’s fate.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.37", "lines": ["Rostam undid the khaftan, saw the sign,", "Then tore his clothes, undone by grief’s design."]}, {"id": "B8.21.38", "lines": ["“O youth slain by my hand,” he cried in pain,", "“Praised in each gathering, known across the plain!”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.39", "lines": ["He tore his hair and cast dust on his head;", "His face ran wet with tears for one near dead."]}, {"id": "B8.21.40", "lines": ["“This pain,” said Sohrab, “deepens without end;", "Why weep? What gain is left, what can it mend?"]}, {"id": "B8.21.41", "lines": ["What profit lies in grief that comes too late?", "The deed is done; this was the hand of fate.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.42", "lines": ["The warriors waited, silent, cold, and numb;", "As daylight waned, still Rostam did not come."]}, {"id": "B8.21.43", "lines": ["Then twenty men were sent to learn the truth,", "To seek the fate of hero and of youth."]}, {"id": "B8.21.44", "lines": ["They found both horses standing in the plain,", "Dust-covered, waiting by the field of pain."]}, {"id": "B8.21.45", "lines": ["But Rostam was not seated on his steed;", "They feared the hero slain by Sohrab’s deed."]}, {"id": "B8.21.46", "lines": ["They thought that Rostam must have met his doom,", "And turned to Kavus wrapped in fear and gloom."]}, {"id": "B8.21.47", "lines": ["They went to Kavus, troubled and afraid,", "And told him what they saw with hearts dismayed:"]}, {"id": "B8.21.48", "lines": ["“The field lies silent; Rostam is not found!”", "A cry of grief and terror spread around."]}, {"id": "B8.21.49", "lines": ["The camp fell into tumult, loud with fear;", "No man could say what fate had brought them here."]}, {"id": "B8.21.50", "lines": ["Then Kavus bade the buq and koust ring loud,", "And summoned Tus as dread swept through the crowd."]}, {"id": "B8.21.51", "lines": ["He said: “Send one swift rider toward the fray,", "To learn what Sohrab’s battle holds today."]}, {"id": "B8.21.52", "lines": ["If Rostam falls, what chief in Iran’s band", "Could face that youth alone and make a stand?"]}, {"id": "B8.21.53", "lines": ["We must attack at once with all our might,", "For none can face him singly in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.54", "lines": ["Amid the tumult Sohrab spoke his part", "To Rostam, who was wounded to the heart:"]}, {"id": "B8.21.55", "lines": ["“My day has passed; death waits beside me here,", "And all I hoped for fades as death draws near."]}, {"id": "B8.21.56", "lines": ["The fate of Turan now is changed for me;", "See that the Shah leaves them from battle free."]}, {"id": "B8.21.57", "lines": ["They trusted me and followed at my call;", "Let not a single one of them now fall."]}, {"id": "B8.21.58", "lines": ["I gave them promises and hopes before;", "Do not let grief now reach them any more."]}, {"id": "B8.21.59", "lines": ["How could I know, renowned and mighty one,", "My father’s hand would end his very son?"]}, {"id": "B8.21.60", "lines": ["Within the fortress one brave man I bound,", "Caught in my kamand when I took that ground."]}, {"id": "B8.21.61", "lines": ["I asked him many times for signs of you;", "Your image stood before my eyes in view."]}, {"id": "B8.21.62", "lines": ["Yet all his answers led my thought astray;", "His words drove hope from me and dimmed the day."]}, {"id": "B8.21.63", "lines": ["Find which Iranian warrior he may be;", "Whatever passed, from vengeance set him free."]}, {"id": "B8.21.64", "lines": ["Find him, but let no vengeance strike his head;", "Let not my death bring further bloodshed."]}, {"id": "B8.21.65", "lines": ["I saw in you the signs my mother named,", "Yet my own eyes denied what they proclaimed."]}, {"id": "B8.21.66", "lines": ["My evil star decreed what fate would be:", "My father’s hand would bring my death to me."]}, {"id": "B8.21.67", "lines": ["I came like lightning; now like wind I fly;", "So brief the road that carried me to die."]}, {"id": "B8.21.68", "lines": ["Perhaps in heaven I shall see you yet,", "And meet you free of grief, with no regret.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.69", "lines": ["Grief closed great Rostam’s breath; his heart burned red,", "And tears like blood ran from his eyes instead."]}, {"id": "B8.21.70", "lines": ["He mounted Rakhsh, his face with anguish stained,", "Cold sighs upon his lips, his heart blood-drained."]}, {"id": "B8.21.71", "lines": ["He rode before the army with a cry,", "His heart in torment for the deed gone by."]}, {"id": "B8.21.72", "lines": ["The Iranians saw him and bowed face to ground,", "Their foreheads pressed to earth in ranks around."]}, {"id": "B8.21.73", "lines": ["They praised the Maker, thankful for his grace:", "Their champion lived and had returned in place."]}, {"id": "B8.21.74", "lines": ["They saw his dusty head, his garments torn,", "His breast all wounded and his spirit worn."]}, {"id": "B8.21.75", "lines": ["They questioned him: “What grief has struck you so?", "For whom does such a flood of anguish flow?”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.76", "lines": ["He told the dreadful wonder he had done:", "His own right hand had wounded his own son."]}, {"id": "B8.21.77", "lines": ["They raised one cry; then Rostam’s senses fled,", "And senseless fell amid the grief they spread."]}, {"id": "B8.21.78", "lines": ["Then Rostam told the chiefs: “This grief has grown;", "I have no heart or body of my own."]}, {"id": "B8.21.79", "lines": ["Seek no more war with Turan on this plain;", "The evil I have done today is enough pain.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.80", "lines": ["Then Zavareh came near with garments rent,", "His body bruised, his spirit grief-bent."]}, {"id": "B8.21.81", "lines": ["When Rostam saw his brother in that state,", "He told what Sohrab said beneath his fate."]}, {"id": "B8.21.82", "lines": ["“I rue the deed my aged hand has done;", "No punishment can match the wrong begun."]}, {"id": "B8.21.83", "lines": ["In old age I have slain my very heir,", "And cut the root of one so young and fair."]}, {"id": "B8.21.84", "lines": ["I tore the young man’s liver with my blade;", "May heaven weep for him whom I have laid.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.85", "lines": ["He sent to Houman then this stern command:", "“The sword of vengeance sheathed shall firmly stand."]}, {"id": "B8.21.86", "lines": ["You now must guard the Turanian array;", "Keep watch upon them through the coming day."]}, {"id": "B8.21.87", "lines": ["No battle lies between us now or here;", "There is no need for further speech or spear."]}, {"id": "B8.21.88", "lines": ["Through your ill nature you concealed his name,", "And cast my soul and sight alike in flame.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.89", "lines": ["Then Rostam called Zavareh to his side:", "“My clear-souled brother, go with him,” he cried."]}, {"id": "B8.21.90", "lines": ["“Go with him onward to the river’s bend,", "And let no harm come to a foe or friend.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.91", "lines": ["Zavareh went at once across the plain,", "Still bearing in his heart his brother’s pain."]}, {"id": "B8.21.92", "lines": ["He gave to Houman Rostam’s message whole,", "And spoke each word entrusted to his soul."]}, {"id": "B8.21.93", "lines": ["Then Houman answered: “One man caused this blight:", "Hajir concealed the chief from Sohrab’s sight."]}, {"id": "B8.21.94", "lines": ["Sohrab sought his father’s signs in vain;", "Hajir withheld them, joining grief to pain."]}, {"id": "B8.21.95", "lines": ["His silence brought this ruin in its stead;", "For Sohrab’s blood, the man should lose his head.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.96", "lines": ["Zavareh turned and brought the answer back,", "And told the words that set his heart off track."]}, {"id": "B8.21.97", "lines": ["At Hajir’s deed suspicion filled his breast;", "He knew concealment drove the fatal quest."]}, {"id": "B8.21.98", "lines": ["Rostam stood stunned; the world went dark with grief,", "And anguish surged through him without relief."]}, {"id": "B8.21.99", "lines": ["He strode to Hajir, seized him by the gown,", "Then with one furious wrench he hurled him down."]}, {"id": "B8.21.100", "lines": ["He drew a water-blue khanjar bright,", "And meant to sever Hajir’s head outright."]}, {"id": "B8.21.101", "lines": ["The nobles crowded close with urgent plea,", "And pulled Hajir from death and set him free."]}, {"id": "B8.21.102", "lines": ["Then Rostam left that place, his spirit torn,", "And came again to where his son lay worn."]}, {"id": "B8.21.103", "lines": ["The chiefs went with him, sorrow in each face:", "Tus, Gudarz, Gostaham approached the place."]}, {"id": "B8.21.104", "lines": ["The gathered army raised its voice in prayer", "For that beloved youth whom death would snare."]}, {"id": "B8.21.105", "lines": ["“May Yazdan alone bring healing to his plight,", "And make these crushing sorrows turn to light.”"]}, {"id": "B8.21.106", "lines": ["Then Rostam took a khanjar in his hand,", "To sever his own head there on the sand."]}, {"id": "B8.21.107", "lines": ["The chiefs clung fast and held the hero tight,", "While blood-like tears ran down before his sight."]}, {"id": "B8.21.108", "lines": ["Then Gudarz said: “What profit can you gain", "By filling all the world with smoke and pain?"]}, {"id": "B8.21.109", "lines": ["Though you should wound yourself a hundredfold,", "What ease would reach the youth whom death may hold?"]}, {"id": "B8.21.110", "lines": ["If any span of life remains to stay,", "He still will live; do not throw yours away."]}, {"id": "B8.21.111", "lines": ["But if the youth must leave this mortal sphere,", "Look through the world; who lives forever here?"]}, {"id": "B8.21.112", "lines": ["Before death all of us are hunted prey,", "Whether crown or helmet guards the head today."]}, {"id": "B8.21.113", "lines": ["When each one’s hour arrives, death draws him hence;", "What follows afterward escapes our sense."]}, {"id": "B8.21.114", "lines": ["Who lives and never feels the grief of death?", "Do not consume yourself while you have breath."]}, {"id": "B8.21.115", "lines": ["Whether the road be long or swiftly crossed,", "Companions part at last, and all is lost.”"]}, {"id": "B8.22.1", "lines": ["Then Rostam said to Gudarz: “Noble friend,", "Whose courage and clear wisdom never bend,"]}, {"id": "B8.22.2", "lines": ["Go swiftly now and carry what I say;", "Tell Kavus all the grief I bear today."]}, {"id": "B8.22.3", "lines": ["Say this: ‘I tore my brave son’s liver with this blade;", "Accursed the hand by which the wound was made."]}, {"id": "B8.22.4", "lines": ["If you remember service I have shown,", "Let pity move your heart toward my own."]}, {"id": "B8.22.5", "lines": ["Within your treasury you keep in store", "The nush-daru that heals the deepest sore."]}, {"id": "B8.22.6", "lines": ["Send also wine to strengthen what remains;", "Perhaps my son may rise from mortal pains."]}, {"id": "B8.22.7", "lines": ["Through your good fortune may his strength revive,", "And serve beneath your rule, as I, alive.’”"]}, {"id": "B8.22.8", "lines": ["Then Gudarz sped like wind to bear the word,", "And told to Kavus all that he had heard."]}, {"id": "B8.22.9", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Who stands in higher place", "Than Rostam, who has never known disgrace?"]}, {"id": "B8.22.10", "lines": ["No harm to Rostam would I ever choose;", "His honor in my sight I will not lose."]}, {"id": "B8.22.11", "lines": ["But if I send the healing draft I own,", "That elephant-bodied youth would rise full-grown."]}, {"id": "B8.22.12", "lines": ["He then would rise, his father’s strength to crown;", "Together they would strike my fortunes down."]}, {"id": "B8.22.13", "lines": ["If harm should come from one I chose to mend,", "I would repay the wrong from end to end."]}, {"id": "B8.22.14", "lines": ["You heard him cry, ‘Who is Kavus to me?", "If he is Shah, then what can Tus still be?’"]}, {"id": "B8.22.15", "lines": ["Where could a man so vast find room at all,", "With such great shoulders, farr, and stature tall?"]}, {"id": "B8.22.16", "lines": ["How could he bow before my sovereign claim,", "Or curb such farr beneath another’s name?"]}, {"id": "B8.22.17", "lines": ["He counted insults out before my men,", "And stripped my honor from me there and then."]}, {"id": "B8.22.18", "lines": ["If such a son should live beside his sire,", "I would be dust within their hands entire."]}, {"id": "B8.22.19", "lines": ["Have you not heard what Sohrab dared proclaim?", "You know the world and should recall his claim:"]}, {"id": "B8.22.20", "lines": ["‘A thousand heads of Iran I shall take,", "And hang Kavus alive for vengeance’ sake.’"]}, {"id": "B8.22.21", "lines": ["If he survives and walks beneath the sun,", "Then all Iran would turn from him and run."]}, {"id": "B8.22.22", "lines": ["Who feeds his enemy and lets him thrive", "Spreads an evil name while still alive.”"]}, {"id": "B8.22.23", "lines": ["Then Gudarz, smoke-like, hurried back from court,", "His heart made bitter by the Shah’s retort."]}, {"id": "B8.22.24", "lines": ["“The Shah’s ill nature like colocynth grows;", "Forever bitter fruit its branch bestows."]}, {"id": "B8.22.25", "lines": ["In harshness none throughout the world compares;", "No other person’s grief he buys or shares."]}, {"id": "B8.22.26", "lines": ["You must go yourself before the king,", "And light his darkened soul with what you bring.”"]}, {"id": "B8.23.1", "lines": ["Rostam had called for cloth of woven gold,", "And bade them spread it round him, fold on fold."]}, {"id": "B8.23.2", "lines": ["They laid the wounded youth on silken bed,", "Then Rostam hastened back to where he bled. "]}, {"id": "B8.23.3", "lines": ["A rider overtook him on the track,", "And brought the bitter news that called him back."]}, {"id": "B8.23.4", "lines": ["“Sohrab has left the wide world for the grave;", "A coffin, not a palace, does he crave.”"]}, {"id": "B8.23.5", "lines": ["The father gave a cold and bitter sigh,", "And rubbed his lashes till blood filled his eye."]}, {"id": "B8.23.6", "lines": ["He sprang from Rakhsh and cast dust on his head,", "His helmet cast aside beside the dead."]}, {"id": "B8.23.7", "lines": ["The chiefs around him raised a mourning cry,", "And wept for Sohrab underneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B8.23.8", "lines": ["He said: “O youth, exalted in your birth,", "A peerless warrior walking on this earth,"]}, {"id": "B8.23.9", "lines": ["Not sun nor moon shall see your equal rise,", "Nor crown, helm, cuirass, throne beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B8.23.10", "lines": ["Has any man endured a grief like mine,", "To slay his son in age’s late decline?"]}, {"id": "B8.23.11", "lines": ["From mighty Sahm the horseman came your race;", "Your mother too was born in royal place."]}, {"id": "B8.23.12", "lines": ["I, who in valor stood above all men,", "Seemed but a child beside your prowess then."]}, {"id": "B8.23.13", "lines": ["May both these hands be severed for this deed;", "May dark dust be the only seat I need."]}, {"id": "B8.23.14", "lines": ["What shall I say to her who bore this son?", "What words can tell her what my hand has done?"]}, {"id": "B8.23.15", "lines": ["Who will go forth and tell her of this day,", "And break her heart with words none dare to say?"]}, {"id": "B8.23.16", "lines": ["What cause can I give for this fatal blow,", "That slew the guiltless son I did not know?"]}, {"id": "B8.23.17", "lines": ["What father ever played so dark a part?", "Harsh blame will follow me and wound my heart."]}, {"id": "B8.23.18", "lines": ["So young, so wise, so valiant was he made;", "And I have struck him down and stilled his blade."]}, {"id": "B8.23.19", "lines": ["And what of her, the mother left behind?", "What grief will seize her heart, what torment bind?"]}, {"id": "B8.23.20", "lines": ["What will her father say in bitter pain", "Of one so young, still free of guilt or stain?"]}, {"id": "B8.23.21", "lines": ["They all will curse the line from which I came,", "And call me faithless, cruel, devoid of shame."]}, {"id": "B8.23.22", "lines": ["Who could believe one fair and young in years", "Would grow so tall and lead an army’s spears?"]}, {"id": "B8.23.23", "lines": ["He grew like cypress, set his heart on war,", "And turned my day to darkness evermore.”"]}, {"id": "B8.23.24", "lines": ["He bade them bring rich brocade for the dead,", "And veil the face from which all life had fled."]}, {"id": "B8.23.25", "lines": ["All hopes and cities once before him spread", "Were narrowed now to one small coffin’s bed."]}, {"id": "B8.23.26", "lines": ["They bore him from the field with solemn tread,", "And toward his father’s pavilion led."]}, {"id": "B8.23.27", "lines": ["The whole army cast dust upon each head,", "And mourned the cypress lying cold and dead."]}, {"id": "B8.23.28", "lines": ["They set the royal pavilion aflame,", "And fed the fire with splendor in his name."]}, {"id": "B8.23.29", "lines": ["Seven-colored brocades fed the pyre;", "The throne and leopard saddle joined the fire."]}, {"id": "B8.23.30", "lines": ["A cry rose up, and Rostam’s tears would pour:", "“No horseman like you shall be seen in war."]}, {"id": "B8.23.31", "lines": ["Woe for your strength, your wisdom, and your grace!", "Woe for your form, your stature, and your face!"]}, {"id": "B8.23.32", "lines": ["Torn from your mother, you lie dead apart;", "Your father bears the mark upon his heart.”"]}, {"id": "B8.23.33", "lines": ["He tore the earth with both his nails, and wept", "Down tears of blood, and rent the robes he kept."]}, {"id": "B8.23.34", "lines": ["He cried: “Zal and Rudabeh will cry,", "‘You struck your youthful son and let him die!’"]}, {"id": "B8.23.35", "lines": ["For I had strength to strike my son that day,", "And with my khanjar tore his liver away."]}, {"id": "B8.23.36", "lines": ["What plea can I present to ease their pain?", "What words can heal the wound that will not wane?"]}, {"id": "B8.23.37", "lines": ["What will the chiefs say when this tale is known?", "I uprooted the garden’s cypress, fully grown.”"]}, {"id": "B8.23.38", "lines": ["The warriors of Kavus gathered round,", "And sat beside him mourning on the ground."]}, {"id": "B8.23.39", "lines": ["The chiefs gave counsel, sitting near his side,", "But grief for his dear child would not subside."]}, {"id": "B8.23.40", "lines": ["One hand of heaven holds the crown on high;", "The other, the kamand for those who fly."]}, {"id": "B8.23.41", "lines": ["The one who sits enthroned in wealth and light", "Is dragged down low before another night."]}, {"id": "B8.23.42", "lines": ["Why love this world, when all must pass away,", "And none may choose how long they are to stay?"]}, {"id": "B8.23.43", "lines": ["Though thoughts of treasure lengthen day by day,", "We turn at last and crumble into clay."]}, {"id": "B8.23.44", "lines": ["If heaven knows the ruin that it makes,", "Its brain is empty in the course it takes."]}, {"id": "B8.23.45", "lines": ["Know rather that it has no path in mind;", "No “how” or “why” can reach its turning, blind."]}, {"id": "B8.23.46", "lines": ["Then do not weep too long for those who go;", "What comes at journey’s end, we do not know."]}, {"id": "B8.23.47", "lines": ["The Shah, when told, came near with all his train,", "And spoke to Rostam in his bitter pain:"]}, {"id": "B8.23.48", "lines": ["“From Alborz’ peak to leaf upon the reed,", "The turning sphere sweeps all, and pays no heed."]}, {"id": "B8.23.49", "lines": ["Set not your heart on dust that fades away;", "Some linger long; some soon complete their day."]}, {"id": "B8.23.50", "lines": ["Take counsel now and let your heart find peace;", "Give ear to wisdom; let this mourning cease."]}, {"id": "B8.23.51", "lines": ["Though you strike heaven down upon the ground,", "Or set the world aflame from bound to bound,"]}, {"id": "B8.23.52", "lines": ["You cannot find the one whom death has crowned;", "His soul in another realm is now found."]}, {"id": "B8.23.53", "lines": ["From far I saw his neck and stature tall,", "His mighty gopal, towering over all."]}, {"id": "B8.23.54", "lines": ["Time raised him with an army to this plain;", "Here by your hand his mortal life was slain."]}, {"id": "B8.23.55", "lines": ["What remedy remains? What can you do?", "How long will grief consume the life in you?”"]}, {"id": "B8.23.56", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “My Sohrab’s day is done;", "Yet Houman waits beneath the setting sun."]}, {"id": "B8.23.57", "lines": ["Turan’s chiefs and some men of Chin behind", "Remain; let no resentment fill your mind."]}, {"id": "B8.23.58", "lines": ["Zavareh shall lead their army safe from harm,", "By Yazdan’s power, and by the royal arm.”"]}, {"id": "B8.23.59", "lines": ["Then Kavus said: “Renowned in every fight,", "This grief has veiled your face and quenched its light."]}, {"id": "B8.23.60", "lines": ["Though they raised smoke from Iran in the fray,", "And brought us wounds and sorrow on their way,"]}, {"id": "B8.23.61", "lines": ["Your grief has filled my heart; I now forgo", "All vengeance on the men who brought us woe.”"]}, {"id": "B8.24.1", "lines": ["The Shah turned homeward with his royal train,", "While Rostam stayed to hear Zavareh explain."]}, {"id": "B8.24.2", "lines": ["At dawn Zavareh came with news in hand,", "And Rostam moved at once his mourning band."]}, {"id": "B8.24.3", "lines": ["Then toward Zabulistan the hero went,", "And all Sistan came forth with spirits bent."]}, {"id": "B8.24.4", "lines": ["Before the bier the mourning army passed,", "Their cries of sorrow rising deep and vast."]}, {"id": "B8.24.5", "lines": ["The nobles cast the dust upon their heads,", "And cut the horses’ tails as sorrow spreads."]}, {"id": "B8.24.6", "lines": ["They shattered kousts and bronze tabiras round,", "Till grief itself seemed beating through the ground."]}, {"id": "B8.24.7", "lines": ["When Zal, great son of Sahm, beheld the bier,", "He left his golden-reined horse and drew near."]}, {"id": "B8.24.8", "lines": ["Rostam walked on before it, pale and torn,", "His garments rent, his heart with sorrow worn."]}, {"id": "B8.24.9", "lines": ["The warriors loosed their girdles, bent in woe,", "And bowed their heads to dust in mourning low."]}, {"id": "B8.24.10", "lines": ["They lowered Sohrab’s coffin from the camel’s side,", "And mourned the famed young warrior who had died."]}, {"id": "B8.24.11", "lines": ["They cried aloud for Sohrab, young and brave,", "Whose name deserved a world beyond the grave."]}, {"id": "B8.24.12", "lines": ["Before his father Rostam bowed his head,", "And drew the gold-worked covering from the dead."]}, {"id": "B8.24.13", "lines": ["He said in grief: “Look; Sahm the rider lies", "Within this narrow coffin, to our eyes.”"]}, {"id": "B8.24.14", "lines": ["Blood-tears streamed down where aged Zal now sighs,", "As grief for Sohrab filled his broken cries."]}, {"id": "B8.24.15", "lines": ["Zal wept until his grief had reached the sky,", "And called upon the Judge with anguished cry."]}, {"id": "B8.24.16", "lines": ["And Rostam said: “He has gone, and I remain,", "Left here in sorrow, burdened down with pain.”"]}, {"id": "B8.24.17", "lines": ["Then Zal replied: “What wonder fills my sight;", "That Sohrab raised the heavy gorz in fight."]}, {"id": "B8.24.18", "lines": ["Among the great he stood, a beacon bright,", "Few mothers bear another of such might.”"]}, {"id": "B8.24.19", "lines": ["He spoke through tears, his thoughts on Sohrab drawn;", "His tongue spoke only Sohrab, lost and gone."]}, {"id": "B8.24.20", "lines": ["When Rostam reached his hall, he cried aloud,", "And laid the body down before the crowd."]}, {"id": "B8.24.21", "lines": ["Then Rudabeh saw the bier and cried in pain;", "From both her eyes blood flowed in streaming rain."]}, {"id": "B8.24.22", "lines": ["“O hero, lift your head once more and see!", "Give but a single glance, and look at me!"]}, {"id": "B8.24.23", "lines": ["O son of strength, no equal shall arise;", "No warrior like you shall meet our eyes."]}, {"id": "B8.24.24", "lines": ["You will tell your mother now no secret more,", "Nor speak what joy once waited at her door."]}, {"id": "B8.24.25", "lines": ["In youth you entered prison, grief your share;", "This house of suffering became your care."]}, {"id": "B8.24.26", "lines": ["What came from father? Tell me if you can;", "Why did he tear your liver, heroic man?”"]}, {"id": "B8.24.27", "lines": ["Her cries rose up from hall to Saturn’s height,", "And all who heard them wept at that sad sight."]}, {"id": "B8.24.28", "lines": ["She passed behind the curtain in despair,", "Her heart in pain, her yellow cheeks laid bare."]}, {"id": "B8.24.29", "lines": ["When Rostam saw her grief, his heart grew sore,", "And blood-like tears from both his eyes would pour."]}, {"id": "B8.24.30", "lines": ["It seemed the final day itself had come,", "For joy was gone, and every heart was numb."]}, {"id": "B8.24.31", "lines": ["Again the bier was brought before them all,", "And sorrow lay like darkness on the hall."]}, {"id": "B8.24.32", "lines": ["He drew the nails and opened up the bier,", "Then stripped the shroud before his father near."]}, {"id": "B8.24.33", "lines": ["He showed the body to the gathered great;", "Smoke seemed to rise from heaven at that fate."]}, {"id": "B8.24.34", "lines": ["The people, every woman and each man,", "Tore garments, casting dust as grief began."]}, {"id": "B8.24.35", "lines": ["With darkened faces, hearts consumed by pain,", "They bowed in dust and raised the mourning strain."]}, {"id": "B8.24.36", "lines": ["The whole great palace seemed one coffin bed,", "A male lion sleeping as if dead."]}, {"id": "B8.24.37", "lines": ["Within the bier the noble form lay deep,", "Like Sahm returned from battle, sunk in sleep."]}, {"id": "B8.24.38", "lines": ["In yellow brocade Rostam’s son was wound,", "The narrow coffin at its head was bound."]}, {"id": "B8.24.39", "lines": ["He said: “Though I should build a tomb of gold,", "And heap black musk around it fold on fold,"]}, {"id": "B8.24.40", "lines": ["When I have gone, this too will pass away;", "Yet wisdom shows no better path today.”"]}, {"id": "B8.24.41", "lines": ["Then in his grief he raised a vaulted tomb,", "Hoof-curved, while tears left all the world in gloom."]}, {"id": "B8.24.42", "lines": ["They carved his coffin out of aloeswood,", "With golden clasps fixed firm where bindings stood."]}, {"id": "B8.24.43", "lines": ["Through all the world the bitter story ran,", "How the Pahlevan had slain his own young man."]}, {"id": "B8.24.44", "lines": ["All hearts were darkened when the tale was told,", "And all the land alike grew grim and cold."]}, {"id": "B8.24.45", "lines": ["For days no joy returned around his heart,", "And sorrow would not loosen or depart."]}, {"id": "B8.24.46", "lines": ["At last he summoned patience to his side,", "For no other road or remedy he spied."]}, {"id": "B8.24.47", "lines": ["The world has many wounds it leaves behind,", "And brands its mark on every mortal mind."]}, {"id": "B8.24.48", "lines": ["Whoever walks this world with wit and sight", "Should not let Time deceive his heart outright."]}, {"id": "B8.24.49", "lines": ["When Iran heard, the same grief-fire arose,", "And every heart was darkened by his woes."]}, {"id": "B8.24.50", "lines": ["Meanwhile Houman reached Turan’s royal hall,", "And told Afrasiab all that did befall."]}, {"id": "B8.24.51", "lines": ["The king of Turan marveled at the tale,", "And weighed what consequence might yet prevail."]}, {"id": "B8.25.1", "lines": ["A cry rang through Turan: “Sohrab is slain!", "He fell in battle on the blood-stained plain!”"]}, {"id": "B8.25.2", "lines": ["The news then reached Samangan’s grieving king,", "Who tore his robes and mourned the dreadful thing."]}, {"id": "B8.25.3", "lines": ["The tidings reached Tahmineh with a blow:", "“Your son lies slain; his father struck him low.”"]}, {"id": "B8.25.4", "lines": ["She seized her robe and tore it from her side,", "Her beauty shone through grief she could not hide."]}, {"id": "B8.25.5", "lines": ["She raised a cry of anguish, fierce and deep,", "Then swooned, revived, and sank again to weep."]}, {"id": "B8.25.6", "lines": ["Her long hair, coiled like kamand in her hand,", "She tore it from the roots, strand after strand."]}, {"id": "B8.25.7", "lines": ["Blood-tears ran down her face in streams of red,", "Again she swooned and fell as one near dead."]}, {"id": "B8.25.8", "lines": ["She cast dark dust upon her head in dread,", "And bit her arms until they freely bled."]}, {"id": "B8.25.9", "lines": ["She set the fire against her face and hair,", "And called her lost son’s name in wild despair."]}, {"id": "B8.25.10", "lines": ["“Where are you now, my soul, my heart, my breath?", "Now turned to dust and laid in blood and death?"]}, {"id": "B8.25.11", "lines": ["I watched the road and waited day by day,", "And thought: ‘Perhaps he journeys home this way.’"]}, {"id": "B8.25.12", "lines": ["I said: ‘He wanders far but will return,", "And find his father, as his hopes still burn."]}, {"id": "B8.25.13", "lines": ["He will come home with father found at last,", "And all his lonely wandering will be past.’"]}, {"id": "B8.25.14", "lines": ["How could I know, my son, how you had died:", "Your father’s khanjar tore your liver-side?"]}, {"id": "B8.25.15", "lines": ["He saw your face, your stature, and your hair,", "Yet for your noble form he had no care."]}, {"id": "B8.25.16", "lines": ["He spared no pity for your waist in strife;", "His sword tore through you and destroyed your life."]}, {"id": "B8.25.17", "lines": ["I raised you at my breast through nights and days,", "And watched you grow in strength and noble ways."]}, {"id": "B8.25.18", "lines": ["And now your form lies cold, your lifeblood drained,", "A winding sheet is all that you have gained."]}, {"id": "B8.25.19", "lines": ["Whom shall I hold now close against my breast?", "Who now shall bring my restless heart to rest?"]}, {"id": "B8.25.20", "lines": ["Who shall I turn to, now that you are slain?", "To whom confide this grief, this endless pain?"]}, {"id": "B8.25.21", "lines": ["Woe for your body, soul, your eyes, your light,", "Now laid in dust, far from your palace bright!"]}, {"id": "B8.25.22", "lines": ["O lion, strength of armies, battle-brave,", "You sought your father, and you found a grave."]}, {"id": "B8.25.23", "lines": ["Hope turned to grief, and all your promise fled;", "You sleep beneath the dust among the dead."]}, {"id": "B8.25.24", "lines": ["Before his khanjar tore your silver side,", "Why did cruel fate let truth remain denied?"]}, {"id": "B8.25.25", "lines": ["Why did you hide the token from his sight?", "Why not declare your name before the fight?"]}, {"id": "B8.25.26", "lines": ["I told you every sign your sire would show;", "Why did you doubt the signs you came to know?"]}, {"id": "B8.25.27", "lines": ["Without you now I live consumed by grief,", "No living soul can grant me true relief."]}, {"id": "B8.25.28", "lines": ["Why did I not go with you on your way,", "To stand beside you on that fateful day?"]}, {"id": "B8.25.29", "lines": ["Had I been with you, he would know my face,", "And love would rise between you in that place."]}, {"id": "B8.25.30", "lines": ["He would not raise his spear against your side,", "Nor tear the liver-place where you have died.”"]}, {"id": "B8.25.31", "lines": ["She spoke, then struck her face and tore her hair,", "And filled all hearts with sorrow and despair."]}, {"id": "B8.25.32", "lines": ["Her cries drew tears from everyone who heard;", "In every heart her grief was deeply stirred."]}, {"id": "B8.25.33", "lines": ["Her senses fled; she fell upon the floor,", "And lay as one whose life would breathe no more."]}, {"id": "B8.25.34", "lines": ["Her blood ran cold; she lay without a breath,", "Her body still, as one possessed by death."]}, {"id": "B8.25.35", "lines": ["Then she revived and called again her son,", "While blood-dark tears across the floor would run."]}, {"id": "B8.25.36", "lines": ["She brought his crown and wept above its gold,", "And clasped his throne, recalling hopes of old."]}, {"id": "B8.25.37", "lines": ["She cried: “O royal tree cut down in youth!”", "And bent beneath the harshness of the truth."]}, {"id": "B8.25.38", "lines": ["She brought his charger, swift of foot and strong,", "The steed that bore him proudly through the throng."]}, {"id": "B8.25.39", "lines": ["She clasped its head and kissed it in despair;", "The world stood wondering at the grief laid bare."]}, {"id": "B8.25.40", "lines": ["She rubbed her face and hair against its feet,", "Beneath the hooves her blood and tears would meet."]}, {"id": "B8.25.41", "lines": ["She took his robe and pressed it to her breast,", "As though her son within its folds might rest."]}, {"id": "B8.25.42", "lines": ["Her lashes bled and turned the earth to red;", "Through blood and dust she rolled beside the dead."]}, {"id": "B8.25.43", "lines": ["She brought his armor, bow, and battle gear,", "His sword, spear, gorz; each relic held so dear."]}, {"id": "B8.25.44", "lines": ["She brought his golden bridle, burnished shield,", "And struck her head against them where she kneeled."]}, {"id": "B8.25.45", "lines": ["She brought his kamand, eighty armspans long,", "And looped it round her neck, lamenting wrong."]}, {"id": "B8.25.46", "lines": ["She took his helm and jowshan, held them dear,", "And cried, “O battle-seeking lion, hear!”"]}, {"id": "B8.25.47", "lines": ["She took his sword and reached his noble steed,", "And cut its tail in mourning for the deed."]}, {"id": "B8.25.48", "lines": ["To the poor she gave gold and treasures rare,", "And saddled steeds she gave them as their share."]}, {"id": "B8.25.49", "lines": ["She closed the palace, tore the throne apart,", "And cast it down with anguish in her heart."]}, {"id": "B8.25.50", "lines": ["She blackened every door throughout the hall,", "And dust rose through the eyvan, court, and wall."]}, {"id": "B8.25.51", "lines": ["She put a blue robe on, but soon the hue", "Was lost beneath the blood that soaked it through."]}, {"id": "B8.25.52", "lines": ["A year she mourned, and constant was her grief,", "Until her broken heart found no relief."]}, {"id": "B8.25.53", "lines": ["She died of grief when that long year was done;", "Her grieving soul went forth to Sohrab, her son."]}, {"id": "B8.25.54", "lines": ["Then eloquent Bahram said: “Do not bind", "Your heart to those whom death has left behind."]}, {"id": "B8.25.55", "lines": ["Prepare to leave; you cannot linger here;", "Your father passed before you; your turn draws near."]}, {"id": "B8.25.56", "lines": ["As he gave up his place, so you must go;", "Your turn must end, though none its hour can know."]}, {"id": "B8.25.57", "lines": ["Death’s hidden secret no one can make plain;", "No key sought out in grief unlocks that chain."]}, {"id": "B8.25.58", "lines": ["No hand can force the closed door open wide;", "This grief consumes the life that still abides."]}, {"id": "B8.25.59", "lines": ["What passed was fixed by the Maker’s decree;", "What He ordained has come, as all can see."]}, {"id": "B8.25.60", "lines": ["So do not set your heart upon this earth;", "Our brief sojourn here yields but little worth.”"]}, {"id": "B8.25.61", "lines": ["Now from this mournful history I turn;", "The tale of Siavash is my concern."]}, {"id": "B8.25.62", "lines": ["A tale of tears, that in the tender heart", "Breeds anger against Rostam for his part."]}]}, {"id": "B9", "title": "The Story of Siavash", "summary": "60 sections · 2,746 couplets", "path": "/poem/b9/", "couplets": [{"id": "B9.1.1", "lines": ["O man of wit and eloquence, attend;", "And shape a worthy tale from start to end."]}, {"id": "B9.1.2", "lines": ["When speech and wisdom meet in true accord,", "The poet’s soul finds rest in that reward."]}, {"id": "B9.1.3", "lines": ["But one whose thought is crooked, harsh, and wrong", "Still finds his counsel pleasing all along."]}, {"id": "B9.1.4", "lines": ["He makes himself a cross before their eyes,", "And stands disgraced before the learned wise."]}, {"id": "B9.1.5", "lines": ["No man perceives the blemish in his mind,", "His own disposition still seems benign."]}, {"id": "B9.1.6", "lines": ["If you would give your work its proper due,", "Adorn it, then let learned minds review."]}, {"id": "B9.1.7", "lines": ["If they approve, your words will travel wide,", "And flow like water in a living tide."]}, {"id": "B9.1.8", "lines": ["From the dehqan I draw this ancient thread,", "A tale from former days, remembered, spread."]}, {"id": "B9.1.9", "lines": ["Though time has worn it thin with passing years,", "I shape it fresh for modern eyes and ears."]}, {"id": "B9.1.10", "lines": ["Should life endure and lengthen out my stay,", "May I in this faith long live glad each day."]}, {"id": "B9.1.11", "lines": ["I hope to plant a tree that still shall bear", "Its fruit when I no longer breathe the air."]}, {"id": "B9.1.12", "lines": ["Now fifty-eight full years have passed me by,", "And countless wonders daily met my eye."]}, {"id": "B9.1.13", "lines": ["Desire does not grow faint as years depart;", "By calendar and omen plies its art."]}, {"id": "B9.1.14", "lines": ["The Mobad spoke this wisdom, clear and true:", "“What once grows old will never be made new.”"]}, {"id": "B9.1.15", "lines": ["Speak while you can, and let your wisdom guide;", "Keep noble character close at your side."]}, {"id": "B9.1.16", "lines": ["When you depart, your cause is God’s alone;", "Your deeds, for good or ill, to Him are known."]}, {"id": "B9.1.17", "lines": ["As you have sown, so shall your harvest grow;", "What words you speak are what your ears shall know."]}, {"id": "B9.1.18", "lines": ["Speak gently, then, for gentle words return;", "Let courtesy be always your concern."]}, {"id": "B9.1.19", "lines": ["Now let the dehqan speak; his tale is old,", "And hear the poet tell what he was told."]}, {"id": "B9.2.1", "lines": ["A Mobad told this tale from days of old:", "At cockcrow Tus rode out, his spirit bold."]}, {"id": "B9.2.2", "lines": ["With Giv and Gudarz and a chosen band,", "They rode in joy from court across the land."]}, {"id": "B9.2.3", "lines": ["They hunted Gur-e-Khar on Daghui’s plain,", "With hawk and cheetah ranging in their train."]}, {"id": "B9.2.4", "lines": ["They coursed beside the river in the chase,", "And hunted swiftly through that watered place."]}, {"id": "B9.2.5", "lines": ["They killed abundant game, and laid in meat", "Enough for forty days for all to eat."]}, {"id": "B9.2.6", "lines": ["The Turks were near; their tents had veiled the plain,", "Their spreading shadows darkened all terrain."]}, {"id": "B9.2.7", "lines": ["A forest rose before them, dim and wide,", "Close by the border Turan’s horsemen ride."]}, {"id": "B9.2.8", "lines": ["Through forest Tus and Giv together pressed,", "While valiant warriors followed on their quest."]}, {"id": "B9.2.9", "lines": ["They entered in the wood to seek their prey,", "And wandered for a while along the way."]}, {"id": "B9.2.10", "lines": ["Among the trees a lovely maiden stood;", "The riders hastened toward her through the wood."]}, {"id": "B9.2.11", "lines": ["No equal had she in that age or place;", "No art could match the beauty of her face."]}, {"id": "B9.2.12", "lines": ["Tall as a cypress, moon-bright was her guise,", "She dazzled all who looked with mortal eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.2.13", "lines": ["Then Tus addressed her: “Moon among the trees,", "What brought you wandering here in paths like these?”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.14", "lines": ["She answered: “Father struck me late last night;", "I left my home and fled before his might."]}, {"id": "B9.2.15", "lines": ["Late from a feast he staggered through the door,", "And when he saw me, rage possessed him more."]}, {"id": "B9.2.16", "lines": ["He drew a water-brightened khanjar wide,", "And meant to cut my head from me,” she cried."]}, {"id": "B9.2.17", "lines": ["The warrior asked her lineage and her birth;", "She spoke of noble blood and royal worth."]}, {"id": "B9.2.18", "lines": ["“I trace my line to Garsivaz of fame,", "And Fereydoon gives honor to my name.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.19", "lines": ["He asked her why she came on foot alone,", "With neither guide nor steed to call her own."]}, {"id": "B9.2.20", "lines": ["She said: “My horse grew weak and could not ride;", "It left me on the ground with none beside."]}, {"id": "B9.2.21", "lines": ["I bore much gold and gems, a heavy load,", "And wore a crown of gold along the road."]}, {"id": "B9.2.22", "lines": ["They robbed me of my treasure, every store,", "And struck me with a sword-sheath hard and sore."]}, {"id": "B9.2.23", "lines": ["I fled those men and reached this wooded place,", "With tears of blood that streamed across my face."]}, {"id": "B9.2.24", "lines": ["My father, once the wine has left his head,", "Will send swift riders searching where I fled."]}, {"id": "B9.2.25", "lines": ["My mother too will seek me where I roam;", "She would not see me leave my native home.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.26", "lines": ["The warriors’ hearts grew tender at her plight,", "But Tus forgot restraint at such a sight."]}, {"id": "B9.2.27", "lines": ["Then Tus declared: “It was my eye that spied;", "I reached her first, and led her to my side.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.28", "lines": ["But Giv replied: “We rode as equals then;", "No army set you over other men.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.29", "lines": ["Then Tus replied: “My horse was first to stand;", "Before your mount had reached that forest land."]}, {"id": "B9.2.30", "lines": ["I led the chase; the honor here is mine;", "Speak truth, not falsehood born of your design."]}, {"id": "B9.2.31", "lines": ["A man of courage does not quarrel so,", "Nor cast aside the truth for beauty’s show.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.32", "lines": ["Their quarrel sharpened, fierce in word and deed;", "They judged the moon-faced maiden’s head must bleed."]}, {"id": "B9.2.33", "lines": ["A noble spoke and checked their angry tide:", "“Let Kavus hear the case and then decide.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.34", "lines": ["“Whichever man the Shah shall name,” he said,", "“Must be obeyed; let strife no further spread.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.35", "lines": ["They both agreed and let their quarrel fall,", "And brought her to the Shah within his hall."]}, {"id": "B9.2.36", "lines": ["When Kavus saw the maiden’s moon-bright face,", "He smiled and bit his lip before her grace."]}, {"id": "B9.2.37", "lines": ["He said: “The hardship of your road grew light;", "Your hunt has brought a wondrous prize to sight."]}, {"id": "B9.2.38", "lines": ["A stag or swift gazelle may suit your eye,", "But such a prize befits the great and high."]}, {"id": "B9.2.39", "lines": ["Let this dispute wait till the setting sun;", "Till then let cheetahs course and warriors run."]}, {"id": "B9.2.40", "lines": ["Tell me, from what royal line your blood may be,", "Your face as fair as any pari I see.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.41", "lines": ["She said: “My mother comes of royal line;", "Through Fereydoon my father’s blood is mine."]}, {"id": "B9.2.42", "lines": ["My kin Garsivaz, Pahlevan well known;", "His tents stand where the border winds have blown.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.43", "lines": ["Then Kavus said: “Who sought to cast away", "Your hair, your face, your lineage in one day?"]}, {"id": "B9.2.44", "lines": ["Come dwell within my golden women’s hall,", "And reign as chief among the beauties all.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.45", "lines": ["She answered: “From the first my heart inclined", "Toward you above all others of your kind.”"]}, {"id": "B9.2.46", "lines": ["The Shah gave both sepahbods crown and throne,", "Ten noble steeds, rich gifts to call their own."]}, {"id": "B9.2.47", "lines": ["He sent the maiden to the women’s hall,", "And ordered her enthroned before them all."]}, {"id": "B9.2.48", "lines": ["They set her high upon an ivory chair,", "A gold-and-turquoise crown adorned her hair."]}, {"id": "B9.2.49", "lines": ["In yellow silk her radiant form they dressed,", "With ruby, turquoise, lapis at her breast."]}, {"id": "B9.2.50", "lines": ["All gifts that God had granted met the sight;", "An unpierced ruby, flawless, red and bright."]}, {"id": "B9.3.1", "lines": ["When spring put on its colors, fresh and bright,", "Nine months had turned beneath the wheeling height."]}, {"id": "B9.3.2", "lines": ["They said to Kay Kavus: “Rejoice in this;", "The moon of fortune brings you royal bliss."]}, {"id": "B9.3.3", "lines": ["A glorious child has now appeared in sight;", "Raise now your throne toward the moon’s high light.”"]}, {"id": "B9.3.4", "lines": ["Like some bright fairy, radiant was his face;", "An Azari idol in his form and grace."]}, {"id": "B9.3.5", "lines": ["The people spoke of face and flowing hair;", "No mortal child had ever seemed so fair."]}, {"id": "B9.3.6", "lines": ["The king named Siavash, then sought to read", "What turning heaven for the child decreed."]}, {"id": "B9.3.7", "lines": ["Yet those who read the wheeling heavens’ course,", "And traced each sign back to its hidden source,"]}, {"id": "B9.3.8", "lines": ["They saw his star disturbed within the sky,", "His fortune sleeping, and they grieved thereby."]}, {"id": "B9.3.9", "lines": ["They told the Shah what waited for his son,", "And showed each road before him, one by one."]}, {"id": "B9.3.10", "lines": ["They saw what pain from good and ill might grow,", "And sought in Yazdan refuge from that woe."]}, {"id": "B9.3.11", "lines": ["Then Rostam came before the throne to ask,", "And said: “I claim this charge as my own task."]}, {"id": "B9.3.12", "lines": ["This lion-hearted child entrust to me;", "Within my breast his nurture now shall be."]}, {"id": "B9.3.13", "lines": ["Among your guardians none can serve him so;", "No nurse like me the world will ever know.”"]}, {"id": "B9.3.14", "lines": ["King Kavus weighed the matter in his mind;", "No burden on his heart the thought could bind."]}, {"id": "B9.3.15", "lines": ["To Rostam he entrusted heart and eye,", "His chosen prince, whose worth he held most high."]}, {"id": "B9.3.16", "lines": ["He bore him to Zabulistan, and made", "A dwelling for him in a garden’s shade."]}, {"id": "B9.3.17", "lines": ["He taught him horsemanship, the saddle’s skill,", "To bend the bow and loose the shaft at will."]}, {"id": "B9.3.18", "lines": ["The kamand, rein, and stirrup he explained,", "Till in their every use the prince was trained."]}, {"id": "B9.3.19", "lines": ["He taught him justice, wrong, the crown and throne,", "And speech by which a ruler’s mind is known."]}, {"id": "B9.3.20", "lines": ["To feast with honor, command men in fight,", "And lead the army with a ruler’s might."]}, {"id": "B9.3.21", "lines": ["With hawk and falcon he pursued the prey,", "While cheetahs coursed across the open way."]}, {"id": "B9.3.22", "lines": ["He taught him every art from first to last;", "His toil bore fruit when all the work was past."]}, {"id": "B9.3.23", "lines": ["So grew Siavash in strength and noble grace,", "A peerless prince in bearing, form, and face."]}, {"id": "B9.3.24", "lines": ["As time went by, his strength outgrew all check;", "He cast his kamand toward the lion’s neck."]}, {"id": "B9.3.25", "lines": ["One day he spoke to Rostam, calm and clear:", "“I need to see my Shah; the time is near."]}, {"id": "B9.3.26", "lines": ["You bore much toil, your heart consumed with thought,", "And gave me every art a king is taught."]}, {"id": "B9.3.27", "lines": ["Now let my father judge me when we meet,", "And see Piltan’s instruction made complete.”"]}, {"id": "B9.3.28", "lines": ["The lion-hearted chief made all things ready,", "And sent out messengers both swift and steady."]}, {"id": "B9.3.29", "lines": ["With horses, servants, silver, and with gold,", "With seal and sword, belts, garments manifold."]}, {"id": "B9.3.30", "lines": ["From every side came garments, rugs, and gear;", "What Rostam lacked, the world brought swiftly near."]}, {"id": "B9.3.31", "lines": ["Thus Rostam sent the prince in rich array,", "While all the army watched him on his way."]}, {"id": "B9.3.32", "lines": ["Then Rostam journeyed with him side by side,", "Lest grief within the Shah’s heart should abide."]}, {"id": "B9.3.33", "lines": ["The world was decked in ceremonial show,", "To please the Pahlevan as they would go."]}, {"id": "B9.3.34", "lines": ["Gold mixed with ambergris fell through the air;", "From lofty domes they poured it on the pair."]}, {"id": "B9.3.35", "lines": ["The world grew rich with mirth and treasure bright;", "Each roof and doorway shone with proud delight."]}, {"id": "B9.3.36", "lines": ["Beneath the Arab steeds, bright coins were spread;", "No grieving face was seen; all sorrow fled."]}, {"id": "B9.3.37", "lines": ["Along the road, from every flowing mane,", "Dripped saffron, musk, and wine like fragrant rain."]}, {"id": "B9.4.1", "lines": ["Word reached Kay Kavus: “Siavash draws near,", "With royal farr made manifest and clear.”"]}, {"id": "B9.4.2", "lines": ["He sent out Tus and Giv with joyful sound,", "With buq and koust that shook the fields around."]}, {"id": "B9.4.3", "lines": ["The chiefs rode forth in ceremonial array,", "Tus on one side, Piltan across the way."]}, {"id": "B9.4.4", "lines": ["They rode together toward the royal throne,", "A fresh young sapling in their midst was shown."]}, {"id": "B9.4.5", "lines": ["When Siavash reached the gate, the shouting grew,", "And all made way for him as he rode through."]}, {"id": "B9.4.6", "lines": ["With folded hands a servant came to bear", "A censer breathing perfume through the air."]}, {"id": "B9.4.7", "lines": ["Three hundred stood in each appointed place,", "With noble Siavash centered in their space."]}, {"id": "B9.4.8", "lines": ["Gold and bright jewels showered from on high,", "While blessings for the prince rose to the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.4.9", "lines": ["When he beheld the Shah upon his throne,", "An ivory seat where ruby splendor shone,"]}, {"id": "B9.4.10", "lines": ["He bowed before him, reverent and profound,", "Then bent his face and kissed the royal ground."]}, {"id": "B9.4.11", "lines": ["He then drew near; Kavus embraced the boy,", "And clasped his son with open-hearted joy."]}, {"id": "B9.4.12", "lines": ["He welcomed Rostam with the honors due,", "And seated him where turquoise splendor grew."]}, {"id": "B9.4.13", "lines": ["Kavus beheld the prince in wondering gaze,", "And blessed him long with words of royal praise."]}, {"id": "B9.4.14", "lines": ["Then gazing on his stature, form, and height,", "He saw his royal farr blaze clear and bright."]}, {"id": "B9.4.15", "lines": ["So young, yet wisdom filled his heart and head,", "As though from wisdom’s living stream he fed."]}, {"id": "B9.4.16", "lines": ["The Shah pressed face to earth before the One,", "And praised the World-Creator for his son."]}, {"id": "B9.4.17", "lines": ["“O Maker of the turning sphere above,", "All good is Yours, all happiness and love.”"]}, {"id": "B9.4.18", "lines": ["Iran’s great chiefs came bearing gifts with cheer,", "Rejoicing in the prince as they drew near."]}, {"id": "B9.4.19", "lines": ["They marveled at the farr upon his face,", "And blessed Siavash long with words of grace."]}, {"id": "B9.4.20", "lines": ["By royal order freeborn took their stand,", "And girded warriors gathered at his hand."]}, {"id": "B9.4.21", "lines": ["The garden, palace, eyvan rang with sound,", "With wine and rud and minstrels gathered round."]}, {"id": "B9.4.22", "lines": ["No feast like this had ever graced the hall,", "For seven days joy rang among them all."]}, {"id": "B9.4.23", "lines": ["On the eighth day he opened every store,", "And brought its varied treasures to the fore."]}, {"id": "B9.4.24", "lines": ["Fine seals and swords, rich thrones and jewels fair,", "Were brought before him, costly, bright, and rare."]}, {"id": "B9.4.25", "lines": ["Arabian steeds in leopard saddles bright,", "With barding and war-khaftan armed for fight."]}, {"id": "B9.4.26", "lines": ["Brocades and purses filled with dirhams lay,", "With dinars, jewels, in a bright array."]}, {"id": "B9.4.27", "lines": ["All these he gave, except the royal crown,", "For youth still barred the prince from that renown."]}, {"id": "B9.4.28", "lines": ["He gave the gifts and promised good ahead,", "And filled the prince with hope by what he said."]}, {"id": "B9.4.29", "lines": ["For seven years the Shah put him to trial,", "And found him pure in conduct, free of guile."]}, {"id": "B9.4.30", "lines": ["In the eighth year he gave a crown of gold,", "A golden torc and girdle to behold."]}, {"id": "B9.4.31", "lines": ["A royal charter on fine silk he made,", "By Kayanian farr and custom long obeyed."]}, {"id": "B9.4.32", "lines": ["Because Siavash had proved his royal claim,", "The Shah gave Kohestan’s country in his name."]}, {"id": "B9.4.33", "lines": ["That former name belonged to all that sphere;", "Today Mawarannahr is the name we hear."]}, {"id": "B9.5.1", "lines": ["When all was done as Kay Kavus ordained,", "The prince’s mother died, and mourning reigned."]}, {"id": "B9.5.2", "lines": ["Then Siavash descended from on high,", "And like a Div cried to the turning sky."]}, {"id": "B9.5.3", "lines": ["He tore his royal robes in mourning dread,", "And cast the darkest dust upon his head."]}, {"id": "B9.5.4", "lines": ["He mourned his mother, stricken through and through,", "And made his own sweet soul bear anguish too."]}, {"id": "B9.5.5", "lines": ["For many days no laughter touched his face,", "Through every hour he mourned in grief’s embrace."]}, {"id": "B9.5.6", "lines": ["For one full month he bore his burning pain,", "Not one brief moment free from sorrow’s chain."]}, {"id": "B9.5.7", "lines": ["When nobles heard the news, they hastened near,", "To stand beside the prince they held so dear."]}, {"id": "B9.5.8", "lines": ["Tus, Giv, Fariborz, Gudarz all came,", "With princes, chiefs, and champions of name."]}, {"id": "B9.5.9", "lines": ["But when he saw them, grief came breaking through;", "A wind of pain rose from his heart and grew."]}, {"id": "B9.5.10", "lines": ["He wept anew and opened sorrow’s door,", "And from his heart let hidden anguish pour."]}, {"id": "B9.5.11", "lines": ["Then Gudarz saw the noble cypress pressed", "By grief, and darkness settled in his breast."]}, {"id": "B9.5.12", "lines": ["Then Gudarz spoke: “O prince, heed my advice:", "Do not begin this mourning for her twice."]}, {"id": "B9.5.13", "lines": ["All born of mothers yield their mortal breath;", "None escapes Ajal’s hand, appointed death."]}, {"id": "B9.5.14", "lines": ["Your mother now has passed from mortal care;", "Her soul is in Minu; do not despair.”"]}, {"id": "B9.5.15", "lines": ["With a hundred pleas, with counsel, charm, and art,", "They set once more in place the prince’s heart."]}, {"id": "B9.6.1", "lines": ["Time passed, and still the Shah rejoiced in him,", "In Siavash, whose light no year could dim."]}, {"id": "B9.6.2", "lines": ["One day Kay Kavus sat beside his son,", "When fair Sudabeh entered, bright as sun."]}, {"id": "B9.6.3", "lines": ["Sudabeh suddenly beheld his face,", "And stood transfixed before his youthful grace."]}, {"id": "B9.6.4", "lines": ["Her heart was shaken, passion seized her frame,", "And all her being kindled into flame."]}, {"id": "B9.6.5", "lines": ["She thinned like finest thread beneath desire,", "And melted like the ice before a fire."]}, {"id": "B9.6.6", "lines": ["She sent a secret envoy with her call:", "“Invite the prince into the women’s hall."]}, {"id": "B9.6.7", "lines": ["Within the Shah’s own women’s hall appear;", "Your sudden entrance should cause no one fear.”"]}, {"id": "B9.6.8", "lines": ["The envoy spoke; Siavash’s anger rose:", "“Speak not of this; such counsel I oppose."]}, {"id": "B9.6.9", "lines": ["I am no man of women’s halls,” he said;", "“I seek no bonds or tricks where snares are spread.”"]}, {"id": "B9.6.10", "lines": ["Another dawn, Sudabeh sought the king,", "And shaped her words to serve her hidden sting:"]}, {"id": "B9.6.11", "lines": ["“O king of kings, no sun or moon has known", "A Shah like you upon the royal throne."]}, {"id": "B9.6.12", "lines": ["No child on earth can match your princely heir;", "Let all his kin rejoice and have their share."]}, {"id": "B9.6.13", "lines": ["Send him within among the women’s hall;", "His sisters and his kin await his call."]}, {"id": "B9.6.14", "lines": ["The veiled ones wait, their hearts with joy run through;", "Their tear-filled faces long to see you too."]}, {"id": "B9.6.15", "lines": ["We bow before him; offerings we bring,", "And make devotion’s tree with fruit to spring.”"]}, {"id": "B9.6.16", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Your counsel serves him well;", "A hundred mothers’ love in you must dwell.”"]}, {"id": "B9.6.17", "lines": ["He called the prince and spoke with measured art:", "“No veil can hide the bonds of blood and heart."]}, {"id": "B9.6.18", "lines": ["God shaped you so that all who see must love;", "No purer child was sent from Him above."]}, {"id": "B9.6.19", "lines": ["How much more those who share your blood and line;", "Though seen afar, their hearts must still incline."]}, {"id": "B9.6.20", "lines": ["Your sisters and Sudabeh wait inside;", "Sudabeh loves you with a mother’s pride."]}, {"id": "B9.6.21", "lines": ["Go see the veiled ones; tarry there awhile,", "And let their blessings greet you with a smile.”"]}, {"id": "B9.6.22", "lines": ["The prince gave ear, and listened, filled with doubt,", "Nor could he read what this might bring about."]}, {"id": "B9.6.23", "lines": ["Awhile he weighed the words the Shah had said,", "And strove to wash the dust from heart and head."]}, {"id": "B9.6.24", "lines": ["He thought: “My father means to try my mind;", "He seeks to know what secrets he may find."]}, {"id": "B9.6.25", "lines": ["He knows much, speaks with mastery and art;", "Alert, clear-sighted, doubtful in his heart."]}, {"id": "B9.6.26", "lines": ["This thing is evil; hers the snare I bear;", "Sudabeh shaped this scheme with hidden care."]}, {"id": "B9.6.27", "lines": ["If I should enter in her women’s hall,", "Much dangerous talk with her will then befall."]}, {"id": "B9.6.28", "lines": ["You gave me rule, the throne, the royal crown;", "Your favor raised me high to this renown."]}, {"id": "B9.6.29", "lines": ["The lofty sun gives dignity to dust;", "So your great favor honors whom you trust."]}, {"id": "B9.6.30", "lines": ["No king like you has ruled, nor could maintain", "Such goodness, wisdom, custom in his reign."]}, {"id": "B9.6.31", "lines": ["Give Mobadan and wise men for my guide,", "Great nobles, seasoned chiefs to stand beside."]}, {"id": "B9.6.32", "lines": ["Teach spear and gorz, the arrow and the bow,", "And how against the hostile ranks to go."]}, {"id": "B9.6.33", "lines": ["Teach me the royal throne and audience hall,", "The rites of court, the order binding all."]}, {"id": "B9.6.34", "lines": ["Teach feast and rud and wine in royal cheer,", "The arts a future sovereign must hold dear."]}, {"id": "B9.6.35", "lines": ["But what can women’s chambers teach me here?", "When have their ways made wisdom’s pathway clear?"]}, {"id": "B9.6.36", "lines": ["Still, if the Shah commands, I must obey;", "My conduct shall be guided by his way.”"]}, {"id": "B9.6.37", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Be glad, my noble son;", "On wisdom’s ground let all your deeds be done."]}, {"id": "B9.6.38", "lines": ["Such noble speech I seldom hear expressed;", "The mind grows stronger hearing words so blessed."]}, {"id": "B9.6.39", "lines": ["Put doubt aside; let troubled thoughts be stilled,", "Choose joy instead, and let your heart be filled."]}, {"id": "B9.6.40", "lines": ["Go see the veiled young women gathered near;", "Perhaps your presence brings them some small cheer.”"]}, {"id": "B9.6.41", "lines": ["“At dawn I go; your order I obey;", "Whatever you command shall guide my way."]}, {"id": "B9.6.42", "lines": ["My heart and soul are subject to your will;", "You are my Shah, and I will serve you still.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.1", "lines": ["A Hirbad, pure in spirit, heart, and mind,", "Kept watch where women’s curtains were confined."]}, {"id": "B9.7.2", "lines": ["He held the curtain’s key both day and night,", "And never left his station out of sight."]}, {"id": "B9.7.3", "lines": ["The Shah said: “When the sun unsheathes its blade,", "Go wisely to the prince when dawn is made."]}, {"id": "B9.7.4", "lines": ["Tell fair Sudabeh, as he nears her door,", "To scatter gems and musk across the floor."]}, {"id": "B9.7.5", "lines": ["Let sisters and attendants gather near,", "With zabarjad and saffron for his cheer.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.6", "lines": ["When darkness fled before the rising sun,", "The Shah once more received Siavash, his son."]}, {"id": "B9.7.7", "lines": ["He bowed; and after they had talked alone,", "The Shah made his command to Hirbad known."]}, {"id": "B9.7.8", "lines": ["Then said: “Go with him now, and at his side", "Behold the halls where all your kin abide.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.9", "lines": ["They went together, free of any gloom,", "With gladdened spirits, toward the inner room."]}, {"id": "B9.7.10", "lines": ["The Hirbad raised the curtain. Filled with dread,", "Young Siavash sensed some evil lay ahead."]}, {"id": "B9.7.11", "lines": ["The women came to greet him, bright and gay,", "With festive joy and splendor on display."]}, {"id": "B9.7.12", "lines": ["The halls were filled with musk and saffron rare,", "And golden dinars glittered everywhere."]}, {"id": "B9.7.13", "lines": ["Bright dirhams scattered underneath his tread,", "With agate, zabarjad together spread."]}, {"id": "B9.7.14", "lines": ["Chinese brocade lay richly on the ground,", "And lustrous pearls were scattered all around."]}, {"id": "B9.7.15", "lines": ["Wine flowed; the rud and minstrels filled the air,", "While jeweled crowns flashed brightly everywhere."]}, {"id": "B9.7.16", "lines": ["The women’s hall seemed paradise made real,", "With beauty, wealth, and splendor to reveal."]}, {"id": "B9.7.17", "lines": ["And as he passed within, there met his eye", "A throne of beaten gold that blazed on high."]}, {"id": "B9.7.18", "lines": ["With turquoise set in patterns finely made,", "And royal cloth in layered splendor laid."]}, {"id": "B9.7.19", "lines": ["There sat Sudabeh, splendid to behold,", "A heaven rich with fragrance, hue, and gold."]}, {"id": "B9.7.20", "lines": ["Like Yemen’s Canopus her beauty shone,", "Her curling locks in scented folds were thrown."]}, {"id": "B9.7.21", "lines": ["A crown rose high above her radiant head,", "Her musk-dark kamand to her feet was spread."]}, {"id": "B9.7.22", "lines": ["A servant stood and held her golden shoes,", "Head bowed, to wait whatever she might choose."]}, {"id": "B9.7.23", "lines": ["And when the prince drew near, she left her seat,", "And came alone, with graceful steps, to meet."]}, {"id": "B9.7.24", "lines": ["She bowed to him, then took him in embrace,", "And held him long before her moon-bright face."]}, {"id": "B9.7.25", "lines": ["She kissed his eyes and face with lingering sight,", "And could not tire of gazing on that light."]}, {"id": "B9.7.26", "lines": ["She said: “A hundred thanks to Yazdan now I raise;", "By day, through three night watches, still I praise."]}, {"id": "B9.7.27", "lines": ["No man has ever had a son your peer;", "No Shah possessed such kin in any year.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.28", "lines": ["But Siavash perceived what lay concealed,", "And knew what kind of love her words revealed."]}, {"id": "B9.7.29", "lines": ["He knew such love ran counter to Yazdan’s way,", "And would not let his judgment go astray."]}, {"id": "B9.7.30", "lines": ["He hastened to his sisters from her sight,", "For all that passed within seemed far from right."]}, {"id": "B9.7.31", "lines": ["They set him on a throne of shining gold,", "And many blessings over him were told."]}, {"id": "B9.7.32", "lines": ["He stayed awhile, then rose and left that place,", "And made his way back through the inner space."]}, {"id": "B9.7.33", "lines": ["The women whispered: “See this seeker here,", "In wisdom and in culture without peer."]}, {"id": "B9.7.34", "lines": ["He scarcely seems a mortal of our kind;", "His very soul sheds wisdom through the mind.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.35", "lines": ["Then Siavash returned before the throne,", "And spoke with measured words in careful tone:"]}, {"id": "B9.7.36", "lines": ["“I passed within the hidden women’s hall,", "And saw the royal splendor through it all."]}, {"id": "B9.7.37", "lines": ["All worldly goodness, Shah, is yours today;", "No grievance toward Yazdan can you lay."]}, {"id": "B9.7.38", "lines": ["Jamshid, Fereydoon, Hushang of old", "You pass in sword and army, wealth and gold.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.39", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced to hear his careful word,", "And trusted all the answer he had heard."]}, {"id": "B9.7.40", "lines": ["He decked his halls like gardens in the spring,", "With wine, barbat, and ney made music ring."]}, {"id": "B9.7.41", "lines": ["That night the Shah within the harem came,", "And called Sudabeh privately by name:"]}, {"id": "B9.7.42", "lines": ["“Hide nothing from me; tell the truth outright,", "And keep no secret hidden from my sight."]}, {"id": "B9.7.43", "lines": ["Tell me his wisdom, judgment, speech, and air;", "His form and stature; tell me how they fare."]}, {"id": "B9.7.44", "lines": ["Did sight confirm the praise report had brought?", "Was seeing him still better than you thought?”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.45", "lines": ["She answered: “Sun and moon have never known", "A Shah like you upon the royal throne."]}, {"id": "B9.7.46", "lines": ["What son in all the world can match your own?", "Why should such praise in secrecy be shown?"]}, {"id": "B9.7.47", "lines": ["When manhood crowns him, may no evil eye", "Come near the farr that shines in him so high.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.48", "lines": ["She said: “If you approve the words I say,", "And if your judgment travels the same way,"]}, {"id": "B9.7.49", "lines": ["Then let no other noble house provide;", "Choose from your royal seed a fitting bride."]}, {"id": "B9.7.50", "lines": ["Let him take one whose sons shall match his worth,", "And carry forward all his line on earth."]}, {"id": "B9.7.51", "lines": ["I have your daughters, sprung from royal line,", "From your own seed and kinship pure and fine."]}, {"id": "B9.7.52", "lines": ["Kay Arash, Kay Pashin, have daughters too;", "Their houses, if you ask, will answer you.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.53", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “My line must live in fame;", "A worthy son must carry on my name.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.54", "lines": ["When morning came, Siavash returned to bring", "His blessing to the throne and to the king."]}, {"id": "B9.7.55", "lines": ["The Shah dismissed the rest, and when they went,", "He spoke in private, earnest in intent:"]}, {"id": "B9.7.56", "lines": ["“One hidden longing stirs within my heart,", "For which I ask the World-Creator’s part:"]}, {"id": "B9.7.57", "lines": ["Let your own name remain through ages known,", "And from your seed may rise a royal throne."]}, {"id": "B9.7.58", "lines": ["As I take joy to look upon your face,", "So may your son bring you the selfsame grace."]}, {"id": "B9.7.59", "lines": ["The stars have shown me what the years will bring:", "That from your line shall rise a mighty king."]}, {"id": "B9.7.60", "lines": ["The star-counting Mobadan read your sign;", "They saw a future sovereign in your line."]}, {"id": "B9.7.61", "lines": ["Look first where Kay Pashin’s young daughters dwell;", "Among the great, choose one who suits you well."]}, {"id": "B9.7.62", "lines": ["Kay Arash too has daughters of high birth;", "If asked, his house would join with yours in worth.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.63", "lines": ["He answered: “I obey the Shah’s decree;", "His will alone is law enough for me."]}, {"id": "B9.7.64", "lines": ["Whomever you select shall be my bride;", "Your servant follows where his Shah shall guide."]}, {"id": "B9.7.65", "lines": ["But do not let Sudabeh hear this choice;", "She twists its meaning with another voice."]}, {"id": "B9.7.66", "lines": ["No such discussion should concern her hall;", "I have no business in her court at all.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.67", "lines": ["The Shah just laughed, not knowing what he saw;", "The hidden water underneath the straw."]}, {"id": "B9.7.68", "lines": ["“Choose as you wish, and leave this fear behind;", "Let no concern for her disturb your mind."]}, {"id": "B9.7.69", "lines": ["Her words are born of love, not hidden strife;", "She stands, believe me, guardian of your life.”"]}, {"id": "B9.7.70", "lines": ["Siavash rejoiced; his troubled heart found ease,", "And praised the Shah whose favor brought him peace."]}, {"id": "B9.7.71", "lines": ["He praised the world-ruling Shah in grateful tone,", "Then bowed in reverence before the throne."]}, {"id": "B9.7.72", "lines": ["Yet secret schemes of hers still caused him pain;", "His wounded liver burned beneath the strain."]}, {"id": "B9.7.73", "lines": ["He knew, “This too is hers”; the plot was true;", "It seemed his very skin was torn in two."]}, {"id": "B9.8.1", "lines": ["The night passed on; above the darkened earth,", "The turning sphere revolved toward new birth."]}, {"id": "B9.8.2", "lines": ["Sudabeh sat in joy upon her throne,", "A crown of ruby, gold, and jewels shone."]}, {"id": "B9.8.3", "lines": ["She called her daughters, bidding them attend,", "And set them on gold thrones from end to end."]}, {"id": "B9.8.4", "lines": ["Before her stood young maidens in their bloom,", "As if all paradise had filled the room."]}, {"id": "B9.8.5", "lines": ["She said to Hirbad: “Go at once and say", "That Siavash must come without delay."]}, {"id": "B9.8.6", "lines": ["Tell him to trouble now his feet for me,", "And show the cypress form I long to see.”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.7", "lines": ["The Hirbad hurried forth and bore her word,", "And told the prince the message he had heard."]}, {"id": "B9.8.8", "lines": ["When Siavash heard, bewildered, he stayed,", "And called the World-Creator to his aid."]}, {"id": "B9.8.9", "lines": ["He searched for many paths but none he found,", "And twisted, trembling, rooted to the ground."]}, {"id": "B9.8.10", "lines": ["Then Siavash came where all the women met,", "And saw her court, her crown with jewels set."]}, {"id": "B9.8.11", "lines": ["She left her throne and stepped before his gaze,", "Her jeweled face and hair alike ablaze."]}, {"id": "B9.8.12", "lines": ["Siavash sat upon the golden seat;", "She stood, hands folded, serving at his feet."]}, {"id": "B9.8.13", "lines": ["She showed the maidens gathered in the room,", "Untouched like gems still sealed within their bloom."]}, {"id": "B9.8.14", "lines": ["“Behold this court,” she said, “and those who stand,", "With golden headgear, waiting your command."]}, {"id": "B9.8.15", "lines": ["Young beauties of Taraz, with modest eyes,", "Whom Yazdan shaped in coy and tender guise."]}, {"id": "B9.8.16", "lines": ["If one among them pleases you the best,", "Then choose her now, and let your choice be blessed.”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.17", "lines": ["Siavash raised his eyes a little way,", "Yet none could turn her gaze from him away."]}, {"id": "B9.8.18", "lines": ["They whispered: “Even the moon would shrink from sight", "Before the brilliance of this prince’s light.”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.19", "lines": ["Each maiden then returned to her own throne,", "And weighed what fortune might become her own."]}, {"id": "B9.8.20", "lines": ["Sudabeh asked: “What purpose lies concealed?", "Tell me what wish within your heart is sealed."]}, {"id": "B9.8.21", "lines": ["Your fairy farr shines bright before the eye;", "Whoever sees you once will faint and sigh."]}, {"id": "B9.8.22", "lines": ["Now with the eye of wisdom scan this band,", "And choose the one who suits your heart and hand.”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.23", "lines": ["But he stood silent; no reply was made,", "And in his stainless heart this thought he weighed:"]}, {"id": "B9.8.24", "lines": ["“I should lament myself if I should wed", "Among my foes, by foolish judgment led."]}, {"id": "B9.8.25", "lines": ["I know the tale of Hamavaran well;", "The famous elders taught me what befell."]}, {"id": "B9.8.26", "lines": ["I know what once they did to Iran’s throne,", "And raised the dust from champions of our own."]}, {"id": "B9.8.27", "lines": ["Sudabeh, daughter of that land, sets snares;", "No love for this royal house she bears.”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.28", "lines": ["He gave no answer; then she raised the screen", "That veiled her face and let her beauty gleam:"]}, {"id": "B9.8.29", "lines": ["“If sun and new moon shared a single seat,", "Their rival lights together there would meet,"]}, {"id": "B9.8.30", "lines": ["No wonder if the moon should lose its pride,", "When such a sun was shining at its side."]}, {"id": "B9.8.31", "lines": ["Whoever sees me on this ivory throne,", "With ruby, turquoise crown above me shown,"]}, {"id": "B9.8.32", "lines": ["Would turn no eye toward moon or lesser face,", "Nor count another woman near my grace."]}, {"id": "B9.8.33", "lines": ["If you will pledge yourself to me this day,", "Turn not aside, but drive my fear away."]}, {"id": "B9.8.34", "lines": ["One of these daughters I will give to you,", "To stand before you, loyal, steadfast, true."]}, {"id": "B9.8.35", "lines": ["Now swear an oath and do not turn aside;", "When Kavus leaves this world, by me abide."]}, {"id": "B9.8.36", "lines": ["Be his memorial, and guard me well;", "Hold me as dear as life while here I dwell."]}, {"id": "B9.8.37", "lines": ["Behold me now: before you here I stand;", "My body and my soul are in your hand."]}, {"id": "B9.8.38", "lines": ["Whatever earth contains shall be your share;", "I will not turn from any wish you bear.”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.39", "lines": ["She clasped his head and kissed him, heedless then", "Of fear and justice in the eyes of men."]}, {"id": "B9.8.40", "lines": ["His cheeks bloomed rose-red under sudden shame,", "And blood-hot tears adorned each lash like flame."]}, {"id": "B9.8.41", "lines": ["“May God protect me from the Div’s dark art,", "And keep its evil far from mind and heart."]}, {"id": "B9.8.42", "lines": ["I will not wrong my father or his name,", "Nor join with Ahriman in deed or aim."]}, {"id": "B9.8.43", "lines": ["If coldly I should answer her with scorn,", "Her heart will burn with anger newly born."]}, {"id": "B9.8.44", "lines": ["She may devise some sorcery by guile,", "And make the Shah believe her all the while."]}, {"id": "B9.8.45", "lines": ["Far better answer softly, smooth and fair,", "And speak with measured words and gentle care.”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.46", "lines": ["Then thus he spoke: “No equal walks the earth", "To match your beauty or your royal worth."]}, {"id": "B9.8.47", "lines": ["You still rival the moon in shining grace,", "Yet you belong beside the Shah’s high place."]}, {"id": "B9.8.48", "lines": ["As for myself, your daughter is my prize;", "No other woman could command my eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.8.49", "lines": ["Speak of this match before the Shah, and learn", "What answer from his judgment may return."]}, {"id": "B9.8.50", "lines": ["I ask for her and pledge what I have said;", "My tongue as hostage stands, till she is wed."]}, {"id": "B9.8.51", "lines": ["Until her stature rises up to mine,", "No other passion shall this heart confine."]}, {"id": "B9.8.52", "lines": ["And as you asked me of this face you see,", "Your love has joined your very soul to me."]}, {"id": "B9.8.53", "lines": ["The Maker’s farr has shaped my pedigree,", "O fair one, this is how I came to be."]}, {"id": "B9.8.54", "lines": ["But do not tell this secret or make known", "What must remain concealed to us alone."]}, {"id": "B9.8.55", "lines": ["You stand as chief of women in my sight;", "I hold you as a mother, as is right.”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.56", "lines": ["He spoke and rose and hastened from her hall;", "Her scheming soul still lay in passion’s thrall."]}, {"id": "B9.8.57", "lines": ["When next the Shah came through the women’s door,", "Sudabeh saw him, rose, and crossed the floor."]}, {"id": "B9.8.58", "lines": ["She brought glad news before the Shah with praise,", "And spoke of Siavash in many ways."]}, {"id": "B9.8.59", "lines": ["“He came and looked throughout the eyvan wide;", "Black-eyed young beauties gathered at each side."]}, {"id": "B9.8.60", "lines": ["So many moon-bright faces filled the hall,", "It seemed the moon rained love upon them all."]}, {"id": "B9.8.61", "lines": ["Yet none he chose except my daughter fair;", "No other could with her in worth compare.”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.62", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced, his heart with rapture bright,", "As though the moon lay in his arms that night."]}, {"id": "B9.8.63", "lines": ["He opened treasure, gems in rich display,", "Gold-woven silk and girdles in array."]}, {"id": "B9.8.64", "lines": ["Bracelets and crowns and rings were brought to view,", "With torques and thrones, the royal treasures grew."]}, {"id": "B9.8.65", "lines": ["Of every kind a treasury he showed,", "Till all the world seemed rich with wealth bestowed."]}, {"id": "B9.8.66", "lines": ["He told her: “Keep these for Siavash; your task", "Is but to give them when he comes to ask."]}, {"id": "B9.8.67", "lines": ["Tell him: ‘This gift is little for your due;", "Two hundred treasuries should come to you.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.8.68", "lines": ["Sudabeh stared bewildered, darkly caught,", "And turned through many spells within her thought:"]}, {"id": "B9.8.69", "lines": ["“If he will not come under my command,", "Let even life itself slip from my hand."]}, {"id": "B9.8.70", "lines": ["Whatever means, for good or evil, lie", "In open day or secret, I will try."]}, {"id": "B9.8.71", "lines": ["And if he turns away, will not comply,", "Before the full assembly I will cry.”"]}, {"id": "B9.9.1", "lines": ["Sudabeh sat upon her royal throne,", "With earrings bright and gold-wrought crown that shone."]}, {"id": "B9.9.2", "lines": ["She called the prince and spoke of many things,", "Then showed the wealth prepared for sons of kings."]}, {"id": "B9.9.3", "lines": ["“The Shah has raised a treasure vast for you;", "No mortal eye has seen so rich a view."]}, {"id": "B9.9.4", "lines": ["Two hundred elephants would bear its weight,", "And I will give my daughter as your mate."]}, {"id": "B9.9.5", "lines": ["Now look upon my face, my crown, my grace;", "Why turn from love, from stature, form, and face?"]}, {"id": "B9.9.6", "lines": ["Since first I saw you, I have lived as dead,", "In cries and burning grief my days have fled."]}, {"id": "B9.9.7", "lines": ["The light of day grows dark before my eyes;", "The sun turns lapis-dark beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B9.9.8", "lines": ["For seven years your love has mastered me,", "And blood has streamed like tears continually."]}, {"id": "B9.9.9", "lines": ["Make me but once content, and none shall hear;", "Have pity on the youth I still hold dear."]}, {"id": "B9.9.10", "lines": ["More than the Shah has given, I will add:", "An armlet, crown, and throne to make you glad."]}, {"id": "B9.9.11", "lines": ["But if you turn aside from my command,", "And will not seek the cure that I have planned,"]}, {"id": "B9.9.12", "lines": ["I will destroy your hope of crown and might,", "And turn your sun and moon to darkest night.”"]}, {"id": "B9.9.13", "lines": ["Then Siavash replied: “For no desire", "Will I cast life away to feed its fire."]}, {"id": "B9.9.14", "lines": ["I will not wrong my father nor betray", "My courage or my wisdom from their way."]}, {"id": "B9.9.15", "lines": ["You are his queen, the sunlight of his throne;", "Such sin should never make the Shah’s wife known.”"]}, {"id": "B9.9.16", "lines": ["Siavash rose in anger from his seat;", "Sudabeh seized him as he sought retreat."]}, {"id": "B9.9.17", "lines": ["“I told my heart’s deep secret just to you,", "Yet evil-minded, you have proved untrue."]}, {"id": "B9.9.18", "lines": ["You mean to bring me shame before all eyes,", "And make me scorned before the good and wise.”"]}, {"id": "B9.10.1", "lines": ["Sudabeh tore her robes and clawed her face,", "Then raised a dreadful cry throughout the place."]}, {"id": "B9.10.2", "lines": ["Her cry rang outward from the women’s hall,", "Through eyvan, court, and street it carried all."]}, {"id": "B9.10.3", "lines": ["The palace roared with tumult, shock, and fear,", "As though the final day itself drew near."]}, {"id": "B9.10.4", "lines": ["News reached Kay Kavus; from his throne he rose,", "His heart disturbed by what the tumult shows."]}, {"id": "B9.10.5", "lines": ["He left the golden throne, his heart astir,", "And hurried to the women’s hall, to her."]}, {"id": "B9.10.6", "lines": ["He found her wounded, weeping in despair,", "While talk and tumult filled the palace air."]}, {"id": "B9.10.7", "lines": ["He questioned all, yet none could make it clear,", "Nor name what brought such turmoil and such fear."]}, {"id": "B9.10.8", "lines": ["Sudabeh wept and tore her hair in dread,", "Then spoke before the Shah, and this she said:"]}, {"id": "B9.10.9", "lines": ["“Siavash came before my throne today,", "And seized me hard; I could not draw away."]}, {"id": "B9.10.10", "lines": ["He held me fast and said, ‘My heart and soul", "Are filled with love for you beyond control."]}, {"id": "B9.10.11", "lines": ["Why do you turn from love I freely give?", "I want none else as long as I may live.’"]}, {"id": "B9.10.12", "lines": ["My crown fell from my dark and loosened hair;", "My garment tore; I struggled in despair.”"]}, {"id": "B9.10.13", "lines": ["The Shah grew troubled, weighing what he heard,", "And searched each side of claim and spoken word."]}, {"id": "B9.10.14", "lines": ["“If all she says is true, and nothing feigned,", "Then blood alone can cleanse the shame he stained."]}, {"id": "B9.10.15", "lines": ["His head must fall beneath the sharpened sword;", "That is the key this evil knot affords.”"]}, {"id": "B9.10.16", "lines": ["The wise man asks what counsel can be said,", "When this tale’s flowing stream has turned blood-red."]}, {"id": "B9.10.17", "lines": ["The trusted elders standing in the hall", "Were watchful, sober-minded, one and all."]}, {"id": "B9.10.18", "lines": ["He cleared the place and, throned, he bade appear", "His son and Sudabeh, with no one near."]}, {"id": "B9.10.19", "lines": ["To Siavash he said: “Conceal no part;", "Reveal the hidden truth within your heart."]}, {"id": "B9.10.20", "lines": ["You did no wrong; the fault began with me;", "I sent you there, and mine the blame must be."]}, {"id": "B9.10.21", "lines": ["Why did I call you through that guarded door?", "I should have known the danger there before."]}, {"id": "B9.10.22", "lines": ["Now tell me all, conceal no word away,", "And let me know what truly passed today.”"]}, {"id": "B9.10.23", "lines": ["Then Siavash spoke calmly, free of guile,", "And told how she had sought him all the while."]}, {"id": "B9.10.24", "lines": ["He told the truth of every hidden word,", "How she pursued and what from her he heard."]}, {"id": "B9.10.25", "lines": ["She cried: “He lies! He spurned the maidens’ charms;", "He wanted only me within his arms."]}, {"id": "B9.10.26", "lines": ["I told him all the Shah would give in wealth,", "In open gifts, and more besides by stealth."]}, {"id": "B9.10.27", "lines": ["I spoke of daughter and of crown, and told", "Of dinars, jewels, treasure, cloth of gold."]}, {"id": "B9.10.28", "lines": ["I offered all that I would add beside,", "Yet wealth and daughter both he cast aside."]}, {"id": "B9.10.29", "lines": ["He said, ‘I want no wealth that you command;", "I want but you, and nothing from your hand.’"]}, {"id": "B9.10.30", "lines": ["Then both his hands closed hard around me tight,", "Like stone he gripped me as I fought his might."]}, {"id": "B9.10.31", "lines": ["Because I would not yield to his embrace,", "He tore my hair; his nails have scored my face."]}, {"id": "B9.10.32", "lines": ["I bear your child concealed within my womb,", "Your seed, O Shah, that should have come to bloom."]}, {"id": "B9.10.33", "lines": ["His violence nearly brought that child to death;", "The world grew narrow, dark, and choked my breath.”"]}, {"id": "B9.10.34", "lines": ["The Shah then paused, uncertain what was true,", "For neither tale alone could guide his view."]}, {"id": "B9.10.35", "lines": ["He thought: “There is no place for haste today;", "Distress of heart makes wisdom sleep away."]}, {"id": "B9.10.36", "lines": ["First I must search until my heart is right;", "A heart made straight will witness to the light."]}, {"id": "B9.10.37", "lines": ["I must discover where the guilt may lie,", "And who deserves the penalty thereby.”"]}, {"id": "B9.10.38", "lines": ["He sought for proof beyond what speech could tell,", "And first drew near Siavash’s hand to smell."]}, {"id": "B9.10.39", "lines": ["He smelled his breast and arms from side to side,", "And searched his body for what touch might hide."]}, {"id": "B9.10.40", "lines": ["Sudabeh carried wine and musk perfume,", "And rosewater hung heavy through the room."]}, {"id": "B9.10.41", "lines": ["But Siavash bore no scent of musk or wine,", "Nor of her touch the least betraying sign."]}, {"id": "B9.10.42", "lines": ["The Shah grew sorrowful at what he knew,", "And turned from her in scorn and anguish too."]}, {"id": "B9.10.43", "lines": ["“No path remains; the sword must end her life,", "And cut her limb from limb for all this strife.”"]}, {"id": "B9.10.44", "lines": ["He thought of Hamavaran and the war,", "Of kin and kingdoms drawn to battle’s roar."]}, {"id": "B9.10.45", "lines": ["He thought of days when captive, bound, alone,", "With neither kin nor ally of his own."]}, {"id": "B9.10.46", "lines": ["Sudabeh served him faithfully each day,", "By night as well, and never turned away."]}, {"id": "B9.10.47", "lines": ["And still his heart was bound to her by care;", "His love made punishment too hard to bear."]}, {"id": "B9.10.48", "lines": ["He thought of children still too young to know", "The grief her death would bring, and stayed the blow."]}, {"id": "B9.10.49", "lines": ["But Siavash he knew was wholly true,", "And wisdom showed him what he ought to do."]}, {"id": "B9.10.50", "lines": ["He said: “Do not be troubled; let your heart be still,", "Keep watch with judgment, wisdom, strength of will."]}, {"id": "B9.10.51", "lines": ["Speak not of this; let no one know the thing,", "Lest color, scent, and substance round it cling.”"]}, {"id": "B9.11.1", "lines": ["Sudabeh, shamed and cast from royal grace,", "Perceived estrangement written on his face."]}, {"id": "B9.11.2", "lines": ["She sought a cure for all that brought her low;", "From hate she planted a new tree to grow."]}, {"id": "B9.11.3", "lines": ["Behind the curtain dwelt a cunning dame,", "Well-skilled in spells and every secret game."]}, {"id": "B9.11.4", "lines": ["She too was great with child, weighed down by pain,", "Her heavy womb a burden to sustain."]}, {"id": "B9.11.5", "lines": ["The queen revealed her plan and sought her aid,", "But first compelled the oath that must be made."]}, {"id": "B9.11.6", "lines": ["She sealed the pact with gold and whispered low:", "“Let none but you and me this secret know."]}, {"id": "B9.11.7", "lines": ["Prepare a drug and make the burden cease;", "Keep faith with me, and rank shall then increase."]}, {"id": "B9.11.8", "lines": ["Your children shall give substance to my lies,", "And make false words seem true before their eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.11.9", "lines": ["And to the Shah I swear that both were mine,", "Destroyed by Ahriman’s evil design."]}, {"id": "B9.11.10", "lines": ["Thus Siavash shall bear the guilt and stain,", "His name grow dark, his hope of kingship vain."]}, {"id": "B9.11.11", "lines": ["His standing with the Shah shall sink in shame,", "And far from throne and crown shall fall his name.”"]}, {"id": "B9.11.12", "lines": ["The woman bowed: “I live to serve your will,", "And every charge you give I shall fulfill.”"]}, {"id": "B9.11.13", "lines": ["That night she drank the drug as darkness spread,", "And cast the burden from her womb half-dead."]}, {"id": "B9.11.14", "lines": ["Two infants came, as if the Divs gave birth,", "Unlike the living or the dead of earth."]}, {"id": "B9.11.15", "lines": ["A golden basin then was brought, and none", "Of all the servants heard what had been done."]}, {"id": "B9.11.16", "lines": ["They laid the Div-born infants in the bowl;", "Sudabeh shrieked and played the mourner’s role."]}, {"id": "B9.11.17", "lines": ["She hid the woman, laid herself instead,", "While cries of anguish through the chamber spread."]}, {"id": "B9.11.18", "lines": ["The servants rushed and gathered at the sound,", "And hurried toward Sudabeh all around."]}, {"id": "B9.11.19", "lines": ["They saw two lifeless infants; in despair", "Their wailing rose to Saturn through the air."]}, {"id": "B9.11.20", "lines": ["The clamor shook the Shah from sleep that night;", "He trembled, listening hard in sudden fright."]}, {"id": "B9.11.21", "lines": ["He asked what grief had struck the moon-bright dame,", "And servants told him how misfortune came."]}, {"id": "B9.11.22", "lines": ["The tale destroyed his rest till night was done;", "No sleep was his before the rising sun."]}, {"id": "B9.11.23", "lines": ["At dawn he found Sudabeh on her bed,", "While turmoil through the whole shabestan spread."]}, {"id": "B9.11.24", "lines": ["Two infants in the golden basin lay,", "Cast there in misery before the day."]}, {"id": "B9.11.25", "lines": ["She poured out tears: “Look clearly, O Sun, and see", "What bitter proof lies openly with me."]}, {"id": "B9.11.26", "lines": ["I warned you often what his deeds had done;", "Yet foolishly you trusted in your son.”"]}, {"id": "B9.11.27", "lines": ["The Shah grew doubtful, left the troubled place,", "And pondered long, suspicion on his face."]}, {"id": "B9.11.28", "lines": ["At last he said: “What cure for this is known?", "This matter is too grave to leave alone.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.1", "lines": ["Kavus sought those who read the stars on high,", "And summoned every seer who watched the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.12.2", "lines": ["He welcomed them, and each was given a seat", "Of gold, where they in counsel were to meet."]}, {"id": "B9.12.3", "lines": ["He told them how in Hamavaran’s fight,", "The Shah had suffered shame and captive plight."]}, {"id": "B9.12.4", "lines": ["He told them of Sudabeh and her claim,", "Her conduct and the matter of her shame."]}, {"id": "B9.12.5", "lines": ["He spoke as well of infants newly dead,", "And brought each hidden matter forth instead."]}, {"id": "B9.12.6", "lines": ["They took their zij and astrolabes in hand,", "And worked a week beneath the Shah’s command."]}, {"id": "B9.12.7", "lines": ["They said: “What royal seed could issue from this sign?", "What poison fails to foul the purest wine?"]}, {"id": "B9.12.8", "lines": ["These children spring from someone else’s seed;", "Not Shah’s nor Sudabeh’s, as we can read."]}, {"id": "B9.12.9", "lines": ["Had royal blood been theirs, our tables here", "Would show the royal sign both plain and clear."]}, {"id": "B9.12.10", "lines": ["No sign in earth or heaven names the source,", "Or shows what secret shaped this hidden course."]}, {"id": "B9.12.11", "lines": ["Yet signs point toward a woman foul in thought,", "Impure in heart; this answer have we brought.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.12", "lines": ["Sudabeh cried aloud and sought redress,", "And pressed her claim with tears and wild distress:"]}, {"id": "B9.12.13", "lines": ["“In Hamavaran I shared in your fall;", "Your wounds and loss of throne; I bore them all."]}, {"id": "B9.12.14", "lines": ["My heart is twisted for my children slain;", "At every breath my head seems split with pain.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.15", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Be calm; look past today,", "And weigh what end may follow from this way.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.16", "lines": ["He sent his guards through every street to trace", "The sorceress within her hiding-place."]}, {"id": "B9.12.17", "lines": ["They searched through every quarter of the town,", "Until at last her hidden trace was found."]}, {"id": "B9.12.18", "lines": ["They found her close at hand; experienced men", "Went swiftly forth and seized the woman then."]}, {"id": "B9.12.19", "lines": ["They dragged her forth in shame before the throne,", "While all who watched stood silent as a stone."]}, {"id": "B9.12.20", "lines": ["He questioned her with patience, calm, and care,", "And promised grace if she the truth laid bare."]}, {"id": "B9.12.21", "lines": ["For many days he urged her to confess,", "Yet all his urging met with no success."]}, {"id": "B9.12.22", "lines": ["He said: “Use every stratagem you know;", "Compel the hidden truth at last to show."]}, {"id": "B9.12.23", "lines": ["If still she will not speak and keeps her lie,", "Then saw her through the middle; let her die.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.24", "lines": ["They threatened sword and gallows, pit and pain,", "But all their threats and terror proved in vain."]}, {"id": "B9.12.25", "lines": ["She said: “I am not guilty of this deed;", "What more have I to answer or to plead?”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.26", "lines": ["They told the Shah: “She will not bend or yield;", "The World-Creator knows what lies concealed.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.27", "lines": ["Again he called Sudabeh to his side,", "While all the seers still by their words abide."]}, {"id": "B9.12.28", "lines": ["“These children both were born of that false dame;", "Ahriman’s seed is written in their frame.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.29", "lines": ["Sudabeh said: “Far more is known than said,", "But fear of Siavash leaves truth buried dead."]}, {"id": "B9.12.30", "lines": ["They hide what they have seen and dare not tell;", "Fear of the prince has bound their tongues too well."]}, {"id": "B9.12.31", "lines": ["They dread the Piltan; lions shake with fear,", "And tremble in the court when he draws near."]}, {"id": "B9.12.32", "lines": ["Eighty elephants’ strength makes him prevail;", "He checks the Nile itself within its vale."]}, {"id": "B9.12.33", "lines": ["A hundred thousand troops will break and fly", "When once his battle cry is lifted high."]}, {"id": "B9.12.34", "lines": ["How then could I withstand such dreadful force?", "My eyes must stream with blood-tears in their course."]}, {"id": "B9.12.35", "lines": ["What can these seers do but guard their speech,", "When fear of him lies close to all they teach?"]}, {"id": "B9.12.36", "lines": ["If you, their father, do not mourn the slain,", "My bond to them cannot exceed your pain."]}, {"id": "B9.12.37", "lines": ["If you would treat this matter lightly here,", "The next world’s judgment shall make justice clear.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.38", "lines": ["She wept more water than the sun could raise", "From Nile’s broad flood beneath its burning rays."]}, {"id": "B9.12.39", "lines": ["The Shah was shaken deeply by her cries,", "And tears of grief came welling to his eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.12.40", "lines": ["With broken heart he sent her from his sight,", "His mind fixed fast upon the grievous plight."]}, {"id": "B9.12.41", "lines": ["He brooded long and vowed within his mind,", "To seek the matter’s root and truth to find."]}, {"id": "B9.12.42", "lines": ["He called the Mobadan to stand nearby,", "And laid the case before each learned eye."]}, {"id": "B9.12.43", "lines": ["One sage replied: “The ruler’s pain is shown;", "Such grief can never long remain unknown."]}, {"id": "B9.12.44", "lines": ["To settle claims that clash and still divide,", "Strike stone against the jar and let it decide."]}, {"id": "B9.12.45", "lines": ["Though dear your son, your heart will never rest", "While doubt remains within your troubled breast."]}, {"id": "B9.12.46", "lines": ["And Sudabeh, Hamavaran’s royal heir,", "Still lays another burden on your care."]}, {"id": "B9.12.47", "lines": ["When two opposed accounts refuse to yield,", "Let one pass through the fire and truth be sealed."]}, {"id": "B9.12.48", "lines": ["Such is the high sphere’s judgment and decree:", "The innocent from flame shall issue free.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.49", "lines": ["The Shah then summoned both before the throne,", "And had them hear the trial that must be known."]}, {"id": "B9.12.50", "lines": ["He said: “No peace from either claim I find;", "Both leave their shadow heavy on my mind."]}, {"id": "B9.12.51", "lines": ["Sharp fire alone can show where guilt may hide,", "And make the guilty known to either side.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.52", "lines": ["Sudabeh said: “My cause is plain and true;", "The two dead children stand as proof to you."]}, {"id": "B9.12.53", "lines": ["What greater sign of guilt could meet your sight?", "These bodies prove the wrong as plain as light."]}, {"id": "B9.12.54", "lines": ["He wrought this evil and pursued my wrong;", "Let him prove innocence before the throng.”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.55", "lines": ["The king then turned to Siavash and said:", "“What course seems right? What path will you now tread?”"]}, {"id": "B9.12.56", "lines": ["He answered: “This foul charge is worse than hell;", "No living soul should bear so vile a spell."]}, {"id": "B9.12.57", "lines": ["I would pass through a mountain forged in flame,", "Rather than live beneath so foul a name.”"]}, {"id": "B9.13.1", "lines": ["The thoughts of Kay Kavus moved between the two,", "And doubt and fear within his spirit grew."]}, {"id": "B9.13.2", "lines": ["“If one proves false, what then will people say?", "Will any still accept my royal sway?"]}, {"id": "B9.13.3", "lines": ["My wife and son are blood and brain to me;", "Which one can I cast off by my decree?”"]}, {"id": "B9.13.4", "lines": ["Yet still he chose to cleanse his heart of doubt,", "And seek what remedy might root it out."]}, {"id": "B9.13.5", "lines": ["He said: “Who rules and wears the royal crown", "Must never let a faint heart drag him down.”"]}, {"id": "B9.13.6", "lines": ["He ordered: “Send a hundred camel trains,", "And bring the timber gathered from the plains.”"]}, {"id": "B9.13.7", "lines": ["The camels hauled the wood in long array,", "While all Iran came out to watch that day."]}, {"id": "B9.13.8", "lines": ["A hundred trains of red-haired camels bore", "The timber till the plain could hold no more."]}, {"id": "B9.13.9", "lines": ["The timber rose beyond all count or bound,", "Its towering mass stood dark above the ground."]}, {"id": "B9.13.10", "lines": ["From two full farsangs off the piles were shown,", "A key to test what evil had been sown."]}, {"id": "B9.13.11", "lines": ["The Shah sought out the root of truth and wrong,", "To learn what crooked course had run so long."]}, {"id": "B9.13.12", "lines": ["Now hear this whole account and mark it well;", "Take heed of what its warning has to tell."]}, {"id": "B9.13.13", "lines": ["Seek only virtue when you choose a wife;", "An evil nature stains a husband’s life."]}, {"id": "B9.13.14", "lines": ["Two mountains of dry timber rose on high,", "While all the world stood gathered close nearby."]}, {"id": "B9.13.15", "lines": ["Between the heaps a narrow passage lay,", "So tight a mounted rider scarcely made way."]}, {"id": "B9.13.16", "lines": ["The Shah commanded black naphtha be spread", "Across the timber, foot to towering head."]}, {"id": "B9.13.17", "lines": ["Two hundred kindlers set the heaps alight,", "Till deepest night seemed turned to blazing light."]}, {"id": "B9.13.18", "lines": ["At first black smoke went rolling, thick and dire,", "Then all at once broke forth the surging fire."]}, {"id": "B9.13.19", "lines": ["The flames rose high and burned with blinding glare,", "Till earth itself outshone the stars in air."]}, {"id": "B9.13.20", "lines": ["The world roared out and breathed a furnace breath,", "While crowds recoiled as if from certain death."]}, {"id": "B9.13.21", "lines": ["The plain itself seemed roasting in the blaze,", "And people wept to lose his smiling gaze."]}, {"id": "B9.13.22", "lines": ["Then Siavash came before his father’s sight,", "Gold helm upon his head, his bearing bright."]}, {"id": "B9.13.23", "lines": ["In robes of white, composed upon his steed,", "His smiling face showed hope in time of need."]}, {"id": "B9.13.24", "lines": ["His dark steed’s hooves sent dust into the sky,", "As though their dust would veil the moon on high."]}, {"id": "B9.13.25", "lines": ["He sprinkled camphor lightly on his frame,", "Prepared for shroud and death, but not for shame."]}, {"id": "B9.13.26", "lines": ["He stepped down from his horse and, bowing low,", "Paid to the Shah the reverence he should show."]}, {"id": "B9.13.27", "lines": ["The Shah’s face filled with shame before his son,", "And a gentle speech by Siavash had begun."]}, {"id": "B9.13.28", "lines": ["“Do not grieve, father; this is worldly fate;", "The turning sphere has brought us to this state."]}, {"id": "B9.13.29", "lines": ["I bear this shame, this slander on my name;", "If I am pure, deliverance waits in flame."]}, {"id": "B9.13.30", "lines": ["If guilt is mine, the World-Creator’s hand", "Will give no shelter where the fires stand."]}, {"id": "B9.13.31", "lines": ["By Yazdan, giver of all good and right,", "If I am pure, the fire shall lose its bite.”"]}, {"id": "B9.13.32", "lines": ["He drew toward the fire and raised his cry", "To Him, the self-sufficient Judge on high:"]}, {"id": "B9.13.33", "lines": ["“Grant me safe passage through this mountain’s flame,", "And free my body from my father’s shame.”"]}, {"id": "B9.13.34", "lines": ["He poured his grief before the Judge in prayer,", "Then spurred his black steed smoke-like toward the glare."]}, {"id": "B9.13.35", "lines": ["A cry rose up from city and from plain,", "And all the world was seized by grief and pain."]}, {"id": "B9.13.36", "lines": ["Sudabeh climbed the palace roof in hate,", "And watched the prince approach his fiery fate."]}, {"id": "B9.13.37", "lines": ["The people turned on Kavus in their ire,", "And cursed the Shah who sent him toward the fire."]}, {"id": "B9.13.38", "lines": ["He drove his black horse where the fire had spread,", "As though for fire the very steed were bred."]}, {"id": "B9.13.39", "lines": ["The flames closed round; no watcher’s searching eye", "Could see his golden helm or horse nearby."]}, {"id": "B9.13.40", "lines": ["The plain stood waiting, blood in every gaze,", "To see when Siavash would leave the blaze."]}, {"id": "B9.13.41", "lines": ["Then from the flames the noble youth rode free,", "Rose-faced and smiling for the world to see."]}, {"id": "B9.13.42", "lines": ["A roar went up from all the gathered throng:", "“The young Shah lives! He leaves the fire whole and strong!”"]}, {"id": "B9.13.43", "lines": ["His horse and robe and rider shone as white,", "Like jasmine blossoms opening to sight."]}, {"id": "B9.13.44", "lines": ["Had it been water, he might well be wet;", "The fire had left no mark upon him yet."]}, {"id": "B9.13.45", "lines": ["When pure Yazdan extends His mercy true,", "The breath of fire and wind are one to you."]}, {"id": "B9.13.46", "lines": ["He passed from fiery mountain to the field,", "And cries from town and plain around him pealed."]}, {"id": "B9.13.47", "lines": ["The riders rushed to meet him in delight,", "And cast their silver coins to left and right."]}, {"id": "B9.13.48", "lines": ["All people, high and low, rejoiced as one,", "And praised the miracle that had been done."]}, {"id": "B9.13.49", "lines": ["They said: “The just Judge guards the guiltless true,", "And brings the schemer’s wickedness to view.”"]}, {"id": "B9.13.50", "lines": ["Sudabeh, mad with anger at the sight,", "Tore hair and scratched her face in bitter spite."]}, {"id": "B9.13.51", "lines": ["Then Siavash drew near them, pure and bright;", "No smoke, no fire, no dust to dim his light."]}, {"id": "B9.13.52", "lines": ["Kavus dismounted, seeing him draw near;", "The army too came down with reverent cheer."]}, {"id": "B9.13.53", "lines": ["The prince bowed low and laid his face in prayer,", "And thanked the World-Creator for His care."]}, {"id": "B9.13.54", "lines": ["He crossed the mountain fire with nothing burned,", "And all his enemies’ hopes to dust were turned."]}, {"id": "B9.13.55", "lines": ["The Shah then said: “Brave youth of lineage pure,", "Your shining soul has made the truth secure."]}, {"id": "B9.13.56", "lines": ["A virtuous mother gave such life to you;", "Such sons are born to rule the whole world through.”"]}, {"id": "B9.13.57", "lines": ["He clasped him and owned the wrong he had done,", "And begged forgiveness from his blameless son."]}, {"id": "B9.13.58", "lines": ["Within the eyvan Kavus took his throne,", "The Kayanian crown above him shone."]}, {"id": "B9.13.59", "lines": ["He called for wine and music through the hall,", "And Siavash shared the pleasures of them all."]}, {"id": "B9.13.60", "lines": ["For three full days the wine and feast ran free;", "No seal was set on treasure, nor a key."]}, {"id": "B9.14.1", "lines": ["Kay Kavus on the fourth day took his throne,", "With ox-head gorz, his wrath and power shown."]}, {"id": "B9.14.2", "lines": ["In wrath he summoned Sudabeh to his hall,", "And named the former evils, root of all."]}, {"id": "B9.14.3", "lines": ["“You shameless woman! You have done me wrong,", "And pierced my heart with grief both deep and long."]}, {"id": "B9.14.4", "lines": ["What part was yours in plots against my son,", "That drove him to the fire; what you have done?"]}, {"id": "B9.14.5", "lines": ["You used both sorcery and base deceit,", "And laid for him a snare beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "B9.14.6", "lines": ["No plea will serve you now, your crimes are plain;", "Prepare to die; no pardon shall remain."]}, {"id": "B9.14.7", "lines": ["No longer shall you walk beneath the sky;", "The gallows is your sentence; you shall die.”"]}, {"id": "B9.14.8", "lines": ["She said: “O Shah, rain fire upon my head;", "If death is due, then count me with the dead."]}, {"id": "B9.14.9", "lines": ["Then strike my head away if you decide;", "I will not shrink from death or turn aside."]}, {"id": "B9.14.10", "lines": ["Give the command; I set my heart to die,", "But let no hatred in your spirit lie."]}, {"id": "B9.14.11", "lines": ["You take Siavash’s words for truth today,", "And all the grief within your heart gives way."]}, {"id": "B9.14.12", "lines": ["Zal worked his arts so flame could do no harm;", "The sharpest fire was baffled by his charm.”"]}, {"id": "B9.14.13", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Your tricks still have no end;", "Your shamelessness will neither break nor bend.”"]}, {"id": "B9.14.14", "lines": ["Then the Shah asked the chiefs what law required:", "“What doom befits the evil she inspired?”"]}, {"id": "B9.14.15", "lines": ["They bowed: “Her crime can have no end but death;", "Such hidden evil must be paid with breath.”"]}, {"id": "B9.14.16", "lines": ["He ordered: “Hang her in the street today;", "Let no man’s pity turn this doom away.”"]}, {"id": "B9.14.17", "lines": ["The women wept to see her thus condemned,", "While grief in Kavus’s heart could not be stemmed."]}, {"id": "B9.14.18", "lines": ["He tried to hide it, but his color paled,", "And all his inward struggle stood unveiled."]}, {"id": "B9.14.19", "lines": ["The gathered court turned every face aside,", "As shame stripped off the remnant of her pride."]}, {"id": "B9.14.20", "lines": ["Then Siavash thought: “If by his decree", "Sudabeh dies, what grief may fall on me?"]}, {"id": "B9.14.21", "lines": ["My father then will grieve when she is dead,", "And lay that sorrow afterward on my head.”"]}, {"id": "B9.14.22", "lines": ["Then Siavash spoke gently to the king:", "“Let not your heart be troubled by this thing."]}, {"id": "B9.14.23", "lines": ["Forgive her for my sake and let her live;", "Perhaps wise counsel may a new path give.”"]}, {"id": "B9.14.24", "lines": ["The Shah, who sought some cause to show her grace,", "Replied: “For you, I yield and end this case."]}, {"id": "B9.14.25", "lines": ["I pardon her because you ask it so;", "The sentence ends; now let the matter go.”"]}, {"id": "B9.14.26", "lines": ["He kissed the royal throne, then rose to stand,", "And left to carry out his sire’s command."]}, {"id": "B9.14.27", "lines": ["Siavash restored her by the Shah’s decree,", "And brought her back where she had used to be."]}, {"id": "B9.14.28", "lines": ["The women of the palace gathered round,", "And bowed again before her to the ground."]}, {"id": "B9.14.29", "lines": ["In time his heart relented and inclined", "Toward her; old affection filled his mind."]}, {"id": "B9.14.30", "lines": ["His former passion settled as of old;", "His eyes on Sudabeh would keep their hold."]}, {"id": "B9.14.31", "lines": ["And she, through secret spell and hidden art,", "Still worked against the prince with cunning heart."]}, {"id": "B9.14.32", "lines": ["She labored to turn Kavus from his son,", "As evil nature urged what she had begun."]}, {"id": "B9.14.33", "lines": ["Once more she bent him toward mistrust and fear,", "Though to the court he let it not appear."]}, {"id": "B9.14.34", "lines": ["Such matters call for wisdom, knowledge, right,", "For faith and justice to restore our sight."]}, {"id": "B9.14.35", "lines": ["With reverence toward God to be your guide,", "The hoped-for end may yet with you abide."]}, {"id": "B9.14.36", "lines": ["When Time has filled the cup with poison’s gall,", "Do not ask sweetness from that cup at all."]}, {"id": "B9.14.37", "lines": ["Do not grow harsh at what the heavens send;", "You are not He who shapes the start and end."]}, {"id": "B9.14.38", "lines": ["Such is the turning sphere’s capricious grace;", "It will not always turn a smiling face."]}, {"id": "B9.14.39", "lines": ["No love runs deeper than the blood we share;", "No bond of kin can lightly lose its care."]}, {"id": "B9.14.40", "lines": ["When such a worthy son has come to light,", "Let woman’s love not blind the heart to right."]}, {"id": "B9.14.41", "lines": ["Her tongue and heart in different places stand;", "Seek for the head, the foot comes to your hand."]}, {"id": "B9.15.1", "lines": ["The Shah, absorbed in love, was brought this word:", "“Afrasiab has risen; war is stirred."]}, {"id": "B9.15.2", "lines": ["A hundred thousand chosen Turk horsemen ride,", "With Afrasiab advancing at their side.”"]}, {"id": "B9.15.3", "lines": ["He grieved to leave the feast, the hall of joy,", "As war returned those pleasures to destroy."]}, {"id": "B9.15.4", "lines": ["He called Iran’s Kayanian chiefs around,", "The loyal men whose faith in Kay was sound."]}, {"id": "B9.15.5", "lines": ["“From wind and fire, from water and from earth,", "It seems no Maker fashioned such a birth."]}, {"id": "B9.15.6", "lines": ["Perhaps not Yazdan, but the circling sphere,", "Has fashioned him unlike all mortals here."]}, {"id": "B9.15.7", "lines": ["His tongue he gives as hostage when he swears,", "Yet soon for war another weapon bears."]}, {"id": "B9.15.8", "lines": ["Again he gathers vengeful men to fight,", "And breaks his oath and covenant outright."]}, {"id": "B9.15.9", "lines": ["I must go forth myself to seek redress,", "And turn his shining day to black distress."]}, {"id": "B9.15.10", "lines": ["Unless his name is blotted from the world,", "Another army will at once be hurled."]}, {"id": "B9.15.11", "lines": ["He will make war on Iran with his band,", "And leave in ruin much of realm and land.”"]}, {"id": "B9.15.12", "lines": ["A Mobad said: “Why march yourself afield,", "When such an army bears both sword and shield?"]}, {"id": "B9.15.13", "lines": ["Why cast your wealth and treasures to the wind,", "And empty vaults till all your stores are thinned?"]}, {"id": "B9.15.14", "lines": ["Twice in your haste you let your throne go down,", "And foes received from you the royal crown."]}, {"id": "B9.15.15", "lines": ["Choose now a champion fit for war and strife,", "To stand for you and risk his blood and life.”"]}, {"id": "B9.15.16", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “I see no man at all", "Whose strength and endurance match his in this hall."]}, {"id": "B9.15.17", "lines": ["Like ship upon the water I must ride,", "And face what waits beyond the shifting tide."]}, {"id": "B9.15.18", "lines": ["Withdraw for now, and give me leave to weigh", "What course is best, and I will name the way.”"]}, {"id": "B9.15.19", "lines": ["Then Siavash pondered long and found no rest;", "A forest thick with thoughts grew in his breast."]}, {"id": "B9.15.20", "lines": ["He said: “This war I will myself command,", "And beg the Shah to place it in my hand."]}, {"id": "B9.15.21", "lines": ["Perhaps the Just One frees me from this mire", "Of Sudabeh and contention with my sire."]}, {"id": "B9.15.22", "lines": ["To trap so vast an army in my snare", "Would win a lasting name for me to bear.”"]}, {"id": "B9.15.23", "lines": ["He girded at the waist and sought the throne,", "And said: “This battlefield I make my own."]}, {"id": "B9.15.24", "lines": ["I go to face the Shah of Turan’s force,", "And cast his chiefs to dust along my course.”"]}, {"id": "B9.15.25", "lines": ["The World-Creator had ordained his fate,", "That death in Turan for the prince would wait."]}, {"id": "B9.15.26", "lines": ["Through counsel of an evil-hearted man,", "His fortune would turn back from where it ran."]}, {"id": "B9.15.27", "lines": ["His father gave consent; his heart grew bright,", "And granted Siavash command to fight."]}, {"id": "B9.15.28", "lines": ["He drew him close and honored him still more,", "And raised him higher than he stood before."]}, {"id": "B9.15.29", "lines": ["He said: “My treasures all are yours to spend,", "And all my army yours to lead and send.”"]}, {"id": "B9.15.30", "lines": ["Then Kavus called the Piltan to his side,", "And spoke with praise of all his strength and pride:"]}, {"id": "B9.15.31", "lines": ["“No elephant can match the strength you show;", "Beside your arm, the Nile itself seems low."]}, {"id": "B9.15.32", "lines": ["Siavash came before me, girded for war,", "And spoke before me with a lion’s roar."]}, {"id": "B9.15.33", "lines": ["In skill and self-command you stand apart;", "You raised Siavash from his earliest start."]}, {"id": "B9.15.34", "lines": ["Though iron seals the jewel deep below,", "It opens when you gird yourself to go."]}, {"id": "B9.15.35", "lines": ["He asks to fight Afrasiab afield;", "To Turan’s Shah he will not bend or yield."]}, {"id": "B9.15.36", "lines": ["Go with him; never turn your face away;", "Remain beside the prince through every fray."]}, {"id": "B9.15.37", "lines": ["When you are wakeful, I can sleep from care;", "When you find rest, then I must wake and bear."]}, {"id": "B9.15.38", "lines": ["Your arrow and your sword make all secure;", "Beneath your head the moon and sphere endure.”"]}, {"id": "B9.15.39", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “Your servant I remain;", "Command me, Shah, and I will not refrain."]}, {"id": "B9.15.40", "lines": ["Siavash is the refuge of my soul;", "The crest of his crown is my heaven’s pole.”"]}, {"id": "B9.15.41", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “May wisdom ever stay", "Beside your stainless soul and light your way.”"]}, {"id": "B9.16.1", "lines": ["The karnay’s clang and koust as one arose,", "And Tus came forth as Iran formed its rows."]}, {"id": "B9.16.2", "lines": ["The army gathered round the royal court,", "And Kavus opened stores of golden sort."]}, {"id": "B9.16.3", "lines": ["He brought forth sword, gorz, jowshan, spear, and shield,", "And all the arms required upon the field."]}, {"id": "B9.16.4", "lines": ["He sent the key to stores of cloth and gear,", "And kept their guarded riches safe and near."]}, {"id": "B9.16.5", "lines": ["He said: “My house and all its wealth are yours;", "Prepare your forces from my guarded stores.”"]}, {"id": "B9.16.6", "lines": ["From all his famed horsemen Kavus chose", "Twelve thousand tried and ready for his foes."]}, {"id": "B9.16.7", "lines": ["From Pahlav, Pars, from Kuch and Baluch came,", "From Gilan, Saruch’s plain, each known by name."]}, {"id": "B9.16.8", "lines": ["He picked twelve thousand foot who bore the shield,", "Prepared to stand in battle, not to yield."]}, {"id": "B9.16.9", "lines": ["All noble-born throughout Iran’s domain,", "The wise and brave, the freeborn of the plain,"]}, {"id": "B9.16.10", "lines": ["All those who matched young Siavash, height and age,", "Alert and wise, restrained in speech and rage."]}, {"id": "B9.16.11", "lines": ["With Bahram, Zangeh, chiefs of high renown,", "The foremost warriors beneath the crown."]}, {"id": "B9.16.12", "lines": ["Five Mobadan raised Kaveh’s sign on high,", "Its ancient splendor mounting toward the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.16.13", "lines": ["He ordered all the army toward the plain,", "And rank on rank advanced across the terrain."]}, {"id": "B9.16.14", "lines": ["So thick they stood, the earth itself seemed gone;", "Only the horses’ hooves appeared thereon."]}, {"id": "B9.16.15", "lines": ["The banner of Kaveh mounted toward the sky,", "And shone among them like the moon on high."]}, {"id": "B9.16.16", "lines": ["Kavus rode out and circled every rank,", "Reviewing all from center out to flank."]}, {"id": "B9.16.17", "lines": ["He saw the army like a bride arrayed,", "With kousts and war-elephants all displayed."]}, {"id": "B9.16.18", "lines": ["The Shah then blessed the army where it stood:", "“O men whose names are honored, brave and good, "]}, {"id": "B9.16.19", "lines": ["May fortune march beside you as you go,", "And darken every face that stands as foe. "]}, {"id": "B9.16.20", "lines": ["Go forth in health beneath a favored star,", "Return victorious, honored as you are.”"]}, {"id": "B9.16.21", "lines": ["Tabiras on the elephants were bound;", "Siavash gave command and mounted sound."]}, {"id": "B9.16.22", "lines": ["The Shah rode one full day beside his son,", "His tearful eyes on him till day was done."]}, {"id": "B9.16.23", "lines": ["Then father and his son embraced in woe,", "And wept like springtime clouds whose waters flow."]}, {"id": "B9.16.24", "lines": ["Blood-tears ran down; their cries rose to the sky,", "And grief lay heavy on all standing by."]}, {"id": "B9.16.25", "lines": ["Their hearts bore witness, dark with inward dread:", "No meeting waited them on roads ahead."]}, {"id": "B9.16.26", "lines": ["Such is the turning world, and such its guise:", "Now nectar fills the cup, now poison lies."]}, {"id": "B9.16.27", "lines": ["Kavus returned again to rule his throne,", "While Siavash marched away with troops his own."]}, {"id": "B9.16.28", "lines": ["He turned his march to Zabulistan to rest", "In Zal’s old halls, as Rostam’s honored guest."]}, {"id": "B9.16.29", "lines": ["There in those halls he feasted, glad of heart,", "With wine and music and the minstrel’s art."]}, {"id": "B9.16.30", "lines": ["Now with the mighty Rostam he would dine,", "Now with Zavareh sit and pass the wine."]}, {"id": "B9.16.31", "lines": ["On Zal’s high throne he took his royal ease,", "Or hunted through the reed beds as he pleased."]}, {"id": "B9.16.32", "lines": ["A month passed by; then Siavash rode away,", "With Rostam, while old Zal remained to stay."]}, {"id": "B9.16.33", "lines": ["From Zabul, Kabul, Hind, the warriors came,", "And followed Rostam’s banner and his name."]}, {"id": "B9.16.34", "lines": ["He called renowned chiefs from every side,", "And reached the plain where Herat spread out wide."]}, {"id": "B9.16.35", "lines": ["There more foot soldiers gathered to his band,", "And Zangeh took the baggage train in hand."]}, {"id": "B9.16.36", "lines": ["They marched toward Talikan and Marvrud’s line,", "And heaven seemed to greet their march divine."]}, {"id": "B9.16.37", "lines": ["They came to Balkh; no bitter word he spoke,", "No harshness there his measured conduct broke."]}, {"id": "B9.16.38", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz and Barman moved in force,", "Like rushing wind they drove along their course."]}, {"id": "B9.16.39", "lines": ["With Barman in the van and in the rear", "Sipahram marched, alert as news drew near."]}, {"id": "B9.16.40", "lines": ["They heard: “A young Shah comes from Iran’s side,", "And Rostam Piltan marching as his guide.”"]}, {"id": "B9.16.41", "lines": ["A camel courier sped upon the way,", "Like ship upon the water cast away."]}, {"id": "B9.16.42", "lines": ["He bore this word: “A mighty army nears,", "Led by Siavash with Iran’s foremost peers."]}, {"id": "B9.16.43", "lines": ["Its captain is the Piltan, fierce and proud,", "One hand on khanjar, one upon his shroud."]}, {"id": "B9.16.44", "lines": ["Command us, Shah; our ranks will take the field,", "Prepared to meet the foe, and not to yield."]}, {"id": "B9.16.45", "lines": ["Array your force and do not long delay;", "A wind can move a ship and sweep away.”"]}, {"id": "B9.16.46", "lines": ["He spurred the camel onward like a flame,", "And raced to bear Afrasiab the same."]}, {"id": "B9.16.47", "lines": ["Meanwhile, Siavash wasted not a day,", "But drove his army wind-like on its way."]}, {"id": "B9.16.48", "lines": ["The Iranian army pressed with sudden speed;", "No time remained to pause or take good heed."]}, {"id": "B9.16.49", "lines": ["Garsivaz saw no path but to engage,", "And drove his forces forward in their rage."]}, {"id": "B9.16.50", "lines": ["Beside the gates of Balkh the armies met,", "And closed in battle where their lines were set."]}, {"id": "B9.16.51", "lines": ["Three days they fought with fury side by side;", "The fourth day brought the change in battle’s tide."]}, {"id": "B9.16.52", "lines": ["Then Siavash sent footmen to each gate,", "And through them poured a mighty force in weight."]}, {"id": "B9.16.53", "lines": ["Sipahram fled and crossed the river’s course,", "And came to Afrasiab with broken force."]}, {"id": "B9.17.1", "lines": ["Siavash in Balkh, his army in array,", "Called for a scribe to write the Shah that day."]}, {"id": "B9.17.2", "lines": ["With musk and rosewater the words were traced,", "With fragrant abir all the writing graced."]}, {"id": "B9.17.3", "lines": ["Upon fine silk the royal letter lay,", "Then to the Shah he sent it on its way."]}, {"id": "B9.17.4", "lines": ["He praised the Maker, Lord of sun and moon,", "From whom come victory and fortune’s boon."]}, {"id": "B9.17.5", "lines": ["He makes the crown and royal throne shine fair,", "Raises one man and leaves one in despair."]}, {"id": "B9.17.6", "lines": ["Before His will no “why” nor “how” has place;", "Let wisdom learn submission to His grace."]}, {"id": "B9.17.7", "lines": ["From that Just One who made the world we know,", "And hidden things no mortal sight can show,"]}, {"id": "B9.17.8", "lines": ["May blessings on the Shah forever descend,", "And may all goodness crown his final end."]}, {"id": "B9.17.9", "lines": ["“By your royal farr I came to Balkh in cheer,", "Victorious, with fortune shining clear."]}, {"id": "B9.17.10", "lines": ["For three full days the battle did not cease;", "The fourth, God gave me victory and release."]}, {"id": "B9.17.11", "lines": ["Sipahram fled to Tarmez from the fray;", "Like arrow from the bow, Barman sped away."]}, {"id": "B9.17.12", "lines": ["My army now extends to Jihun’s tide;", "Beneath my crown’s bright farr the world lies wide."]}, {"id": "B9.17.13", "lines": ["Afrasiab in Sughd holds all his force;", "His troops and chief stand past the river’s course."]}, {"id": "B9.17.14", "lines": ["Command me, Shah, and I will cross the flow,", "And lead the army forth against the foe.”"]}, {"id": "B9.18.1", "lines": ["The letter came to Kavus; joy burned bright,", "His crown and throne rose up to Saturn’s height."]}, {"id": "B9.18.2", "lines": ["He turned to Yazdan, thankful prayers he made,", "That this young tree bear fruit and never fade."]}, {"id": "B9.18.3", "lines": ["With joy he wrote his answer to his son,", "Like spring and paradise in beauty one."]}, {"id": "B9.18.4", "lines": ["“By Him who made the sun and circling moon,", "And grants both crown and throne as royal boon,"]}, {"id": "B9.18.5", "lines": ["May joy forever keep your heart from pain,", "And grief or sorrow never there remain."]}, {"id": "B9.18.6", "lines": ["May victory and farr beside you stay,", "And greatness crown your head from day to day."]}, {"id": "B9.18.7", "lines": ["You led the army out to seek the fray,", "With fortune, skill, and rectitude your way."]}, {"id": "B9.18.8", "lines": ["Though milk still scents your lips, so young are you,", "From your own bow the battle-arrow flew."]}, {"id": "B9.18.9", "lines": ["May skill forever in your body lie,", "And let your bright heart soar to reach the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.18.10", "lines": ["Now victory is yours; be cautious, then,", "And weigh the road before you march again."]}, {"id": "B9.18.11", "lines": ["Do not disperse the army; keep it near,", "Set march and camp in watchful order clear."]}, {"id": "B9.18.12", "lines": ["This Turk is Div-hearted and false and vile,", "Bad-born, corrupt in nature, full of guile."]}, {"id": "B9.18.13", "lines": ["Yet crown and royal state are his to own;", "Above the shining moon he lifts his throne."]}, {"id": "B9.18.14", "lines": ["Do not be swift to challenge him to fight;", "He soon will come himself with war in sight."]}, {"id": "B9.18.15", "lines": ["If he should cross the Jihun in his pride,", "His garment’s hem through blood shall then be dyed.”"]}, {"id": "B9.18.16", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, called a courier near,", "And sent him swiftly with the message clear."]}, {"id": "B9.18.17", "lines": ["The rider crossed through valley, rise, and height,", "And hurried onward till the prince was in sight."]}, {"id": "B9.18.18", "lines": ["He reached Siavash and placed the royal word", "Before the prince, who read what he had heard."]}, {"id": "B9.18.19", "lines": ["He kissed the ground, then raised it to his head,", "And laughed with joy as grief and doubting fled."]}, {"id": "B9.18.20", "lines": ["He held the Shah’s command in watchful mind,", "And never left his faith and oath behind."]}, {"id": "B9.18.21", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz, the lion-man, drew near,", "And poured out bitter words before his peer:"]}, {"id": "B9.18.22", "lines": ["“Prince Siavash has come to Balkh in might,", "And stands prepared with Iran’s men to fight."]}, {"id": "B9.18.23", "lines": ["Rostam commands his army in the field,", "With countless famous warriors armed with shield."]}, {"id": "B9.18.24", "lines": ["For every one of ours stand fifty bold;", "Their ox-head gorzes make the bravest cold."]}, {"id": "B9.18.25", "lines": ["Their infantry sweep forward like a blaze,", "With arrows, quivers, heavy shields they raise."]}, {"id": "B9.18.26", "lines": ["Not even eagles match the speed they show;", "No warrior lets his head to slumber go."]}, {"id": "B9.18.27", "lines": ["Three days and nights we met them blow for blow,", "Till men and horses staggered, spent and slow."]}, {"id": "B9.18.28", "lines": ["Whenever sleep came on, a man withdrew,", "And left the fighting while his weariness grew."]}, {"id": "B9.18.29", "lines": ["He slept, then rose refreshed from his repose,", "And formed the battle line anew against his foes.”"]}, {"id": "B9.18.30", "lines": ["Afrasiab flared up like consuming fire:", "“Why speak so much of sleep, as though you tire?”"]}, {"id": "B9.18.31", "lines": ["His glare on Garsivaz grew dark and grim,", "As though one stroke would cleave the waist of him."]}, {"id": "B9.18.32", "lines": ["No longer mastering the rage he bore,", "He shouted and drove Garsivaz from the door."]}, {"id": "B9.18.33", "lines": ["He called a thousand nobles to his board,", "And ordered rich provision from his hoard."]}, {"id": "B9.18.34", "lines": ["They decked the plain for feasting far and wide,", "With Chinese ornaments through Sughd supplied."]}, {"id": "B9.19.1", "lines": ["In joy the feast went on until the light,", "And earth’s bright Eye withdrew at fall of night."]}, {"id": "B9.19.2", "lines": ["Then came the hour when sleep and stillness spread;", "Afrasiab reclined upon his bed."]}, {"id": "B9.19.3", "lines": ["One watch had passed beneath the darkened sky,", "When Afrasiab woke with dreadful cry."]}, {"id": "B9.19.4", "lines": ["The startled slaves leapt up and raised a shout,", "And through the palace panic spread about."]}, {"id": "B9.19.5", "lines": ["News reached Garsivaz: “The royal throne", "Has darkened; haste; the Shah lies overthrown.”"]}, {"id": "B9.19.6", "lines": ["He found the monarch prostrate on the ground,", "Then clasped him close and wrapped his arms around."]}, {"id": "B9.19.7", "lines": ["“Come, tell your brother what has shaken you;", "Reveal the cause, and tell me what is true.”"]}, {"id": "B9.19.8", "lines": ["The king replied: “Ask nothing of me here;", "Until my reason clears, do not draw near."]}, {"id": "B9.19.9", "lines": ["But take me now and hold me to your breast,", "Until my troubled senses come to rest.”"]}, {"id": "B9.19.10", "lines": ["At last his reason came to him; the din", "Of cries and tumult at the door rolled in."]}, {"id": "B9.19.11", "lines": ["They lit the lamps; he mounted up his throne,", "Still trembling like a branch by tempest blown."]}, {"id": "B9.19.12", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz spoke gently from his place:", "“Now tell the wonder that has changed your face.”"]}, {"id": "B9.19.13", "lines": ["He said: “No man has dreamed so dire a sight;", "No sleeping eye has known so deep a fright."]}, {"id": "B9.19.14", "lines": ["Nor have I heard from anyone, old or young,", "A tale like what tonight before me sprung."]}, {"id": "B9.19.15", "lines": ["I saw a wilderness where serpents crept,", "While dust rose thick and eagles heavenward swept."]}, {"id": "B9.19.16", "lines": ["The stony ground lay parched, forsaken, dry,", "As though the eye of Heaven passed it by."]}, {"id": "B9.19.17", "lines": ["And there upon the plain my army lay,", "My tents drawn round in ordered close array."]}, {"id": "B9.19.18", "lines": ["A dust-filled wind arose with sudden sound,", "And struck my royal standard to the ground."]}, {"id": "B9.19.19", "lines": ["Blood ran in streams across the battle-mound;", "My tents and royal pavilion crashed around."]}, {"id": "B9.19.20", "lines": ["Beyond all count my warriors lay dead,", "Their bodies cast aside, each lacking head."]}, {"id": "B9.19.21", "lines": ["Then Iran’s army swept with storming speed,", "Some bore long spears, some bows upon the steed."]}, {"id": "B9.19.22", "lines": ["Each spear held high a severed head in view,", "And at each rider’s side another swung too."]}, {"id": "B9.19.23", "lines": ["A hundred thousand spear-bearers in black", "Rode at my throne in one sustained attack."]}, {"id": "B9.19.24", "lines": ["They drove me from my throne and bound my hands,", "And dragged me captive through their hostile bands."]}, {"id": "B9.19.25", "lines": ["I looked about me for my kinsmen near,", "But none stood by me in that flood of fear."]}, {"id": "B9.19.26", "lines": ["A fierce, renowned champion came and caught", "Me where I stood; to Kavus I was brought."]}, {"id": "B9.19.27", "lines": ["A throne before me like the bright moon shone,", "And Kavus sat in glory on the throne."]}, {"id": "B9.19.28", "lines": ["Beside him sat a youth, moon-bright of face,", "A radiant boy of noble form and grace."]}, {"id": "B9.19.29", "lines": ["No more than fourteen years had marked his age,", "Yet youthful fire already burned with rage."]}, {"id": "B9.19.30", "lines": ["He saw me bound and thundered like a cloud,", "His rising fury breaking fierce and loud."]}, {"id": "B9.19.31", "lines": ["With one sword-stroke he cleft my waist in two,", "And cut my living body cleanly through."]}, {"id": "B9.19.32", "lines": ["My cry rose out beneath the dream’s dark sweep;", "The pain itself awoke me from my sleep.”"]}, {"id": "B9.19.33", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz replied: “This dream may prove", "The very thing your loyal friends approve."]}, {"id": "B9.19.34", "lines": ["Your purpose, crown, and throne shall firmly stand;", "Your foes’ good fortune fall beneath your hand."]}, {"id": "B9.19.35", "lines": ["We need a man who understands each dream,", "And long has studied what such visions mean."]}, {"id": "B9.19.36", "lines": ["Call wakeful-hearted Mobadan to hear,", "Astrologers and sages, wise and clear.”"]}, {"id": "B9.20.1", "lines": ["From every land the learned sages came,", "And gathered at the court to learn his aim."]}, {"id": "B9.20.2", "lines": ["He seated each according to his place,", "Then spoke to all assembled face to face."]}, {"id": "B9.20.3", "lines": ["Then to the Mobadan and seers he said:", "“Speak not of this; let not a word be spread."]}, {"id": "B9.20.4", "lines": ["Whoever speaks of what I now reveal", "Shall forfeit head and life beneath the steel.”"]}, {"id": "B9.20.5", "lines": ["He heaped them gold and silver in their sight,", "To ease their fear and set their spirits right."]}, {"id": "B9.20.6", "lines": ["He told the dream entire, from first to last,", "And asked what hidden meaning it forecast."]}, {"id": "B9.20.7", "lines": ["A Mobad heard the dream and stood afraid,", "And asked safe-conduct before truth was laid."]}, {"id": "B9.20.8", "lines": ["He said: “First pledge your tongue to guard us here,", "And bind your royal word against our fear."]}, {"id": "B9.20.9", "lines": ["Then all we know we openly shall say,", "And trust your justice when we speak today.”"]}, {"id": "B9.20.10", "lines": ["The king then swore that none should come to harm,", "Nor blame be laid, whatever caused alarm."]}, {"id": "B9.20.11", "lines": ["Then one among them, subtle, keen of mind,", "And skilled in matters hidden and refined,"]}, {"id": "B9.20.12", "lines": ["Stood forth and said: “O ruler of the throne,", "This vision’s hidden meaning I shall make known."]}, {"id": "B9.20.13", "lines": ["From Iran comes an army swift and strong,", "Led on by chiefs whose deeds have echoed long."]}, {"id": "B9.20.14", "lines": ["Young Siavash rides foremost at their head,", "With royal blood and banners round him spread."]}, {"id": "B9.20.15", "lines": ["With him come counselors seasoned by the years,", "Who know the turns of fortune as it veers."]}, {"id": "B9.20.16", "lines": ["He comes beneath an ascendant darkly cast,", "That threatens Turan’s realm with ruin vast."]}, {"id": "B9.20.17", "lines": ["If you make war on Siavash, the plain", "Like brocade will be dyed with blood-red stain."]}, {"id": "B9.20.18", "lines": ["No worthy Turk will live when war is done,", "And you will grieve for every fallen one."]}, {"id": "B9.20.19", "lines": ["And if Siavash should perish by your hand,", "No crown or throne shall last in Turan’s land."]}, {"id": "B9.20.20", "lines": ["The world will fill with vengeance for his name,", "And war for Siavash spread like rising flame."]}, {"id": "B9.20.21", "lines": ["When ruin strips the splendor from your reign,", "You will recall these words and know them plain."]}, {"id": "B9.20.22", "lines": ["Though as a bird you soar beyond our sight,", "None can escape the turning heaven’s might."]}, {"id": "B9.20.23", "lines": ["At times it turns with wrath, at times with love;", "So wheels the restless firmament above.”"]}, {"id": "B9.20.24", "lines": ["The king grew troubled and delayed the fight,", "His heart weighed down beneath the seer’s foresight."]}, {"id": "B9.20.25", "lines": ["To Garsivaz he laid his counsel bare,", "And spoke the secret thought that caused his care:"]}, {"id": "B9.20.26", "lines": ["“If I send no army out to seek the fray,", "No future avenger need arise one day."]}, {"id": "B9.20.27", "lines": ["Then neither he nor I need fall in war,", "And this embittered quarrel spread no more."]}, {"id": "B9.20.28", "lines": ["Kavus will seek no vengeance at my hand,", "And turmoil need not sweep across the land."]}, {"id": "B9.20.29", "lines": ["Instead of seeking worlds through endless strife,", "I choose the road of peace and guarded life."]}, {"id": "B9.20.30", "lines": ["I will send him silver, gold, crown, a throne,", "With royal belt and headgear of my own."]}, {"id": "B9.20.31", "lines": ["Manuchehr did not divide the world with right,", "Nor let his portion lessen in his sight."]}, {"id": "B9.20.32", "lines": ["I will yield up a part of lands once shared,", "And draw my hand from what was then prepared."]}, {"id": "B9.20.33", "lines": ["Perhaps these evils then will pass away,", "And water quench the two fires of this day."]}, {"id": "B9.20.34", "lines": ["With treasure I may close grievance’s eye;", "Then heaven may cease its blows and pass me by."]}, {"id": "B9.20.35", "lines": ["I ask of Time no more than what it sends;", "To what is written all my striving bends."]}, {"id": "B9.20.36", "lines": ["Let each thing grow from what Yazdan chose to seed;", "We live as He has planted and decreed.”"]}, {"id": "B9.21.1", "lines": ["When all the turning night had passed from sight,", "The sun revealed its face and brought the light."]}, {"id": "B9.21.2", "lines": ["The nobles gathered, summoned to the hall,", "With bowed heads, come to hearken to his call."]}, {"id": "B9.21.3", "lines": ["Afrasiab called the wise and Mobadan near,", "And spoke so all assembled there could hear:"]}, {"id": "B9.21.4", "lines": ["“From war I have received no good at all;", "Its evil has pursued me through each fall."]}, {"id": "B9.21.5", "lines": ["Full many a famous man my hand has slain,", "And many chiefs lie dead upon the plain."]}, {"id": "B9.21.6", "lines": ["Fair cities I have turned to grief and pain,", "And gardens rich with bloom now turned to bane."]}, {"id": "B9.21.7", "lines": ["Full many gardens now are battlefields,", "And everywhere my army’s passage yields."]}, {"id": "B9.21.8", "lines": ["When world-rulers turn their hearts from right,", "All goodness hides itself and leaves the light."]}, {"id": "B9.21.9", "lines": ["The Gur-e-Khar bears no young on the plain,", "The falcon’s chick goes blind in dearth and pain."]}, {"id": "B9.21.10", "lines": ["The udders fail and give no milk to drink,", "And flowing springs grow black as pitch and ink."]}, {"id": "B9.21.11", "lines": ["The watercourses dry, their fountains bare,", "And musk no longer spreads its scent through air."]}, {"id": "B9.21.12", "lines": ["Then righteousness to crookedness gives way,", "And want appears throughout the world each day."]}, {"id": "B9.21.13", "lines": ["My heart is weary now of war and wrong;", "To Yazdan’s righteous path I now belong."]}, {"id": "B9.21.14", "lines": ["Let wisdom and let justice be our guide,", "And joy replace old grief, now set aside."]}, {"id": "B9.21.15", "lines": ["Let all the world find rest beneath our reign,", "Lest sudden death arrive and end our gain."]}, {"id": "B9.21.16", "lines": ["Two shares of all the earth lie at my feet;", "Iran and Turan make my realm complete."]}, {"id": "B9.21.17", "lines": ["From every side the chiefs who serve me true", "Bring heavy tribute yearly, as their due."]}, {"id": "B9.21.18", "lines": ["If you agree, to Rostam I will send", "An embassy to bring this war to end."]}, {"id": "B9.21.19", "lines": ["To Siavash I send my richest store,", "That peace may heal the wounds of bitter war.”"]}, {"id": "B9.21.20", "lines": ["The nobles answered, speaking one by one,", "And sought the path of justice to be won."]}, {"id": "B9.21.21", "lines": ["They said: “You are our king; we all obey;", "Our hearts are yours; command us as you may.”"]}, {"id": "B9.21.22", "lines": ["They left with heads now filled with thoughts of right,", "And grief and sorrow vanished from their sight."]}, {"id": "B9.21.23", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab to Garsivaz drew near:", "“Make ready now, and set your course from here."]}, {"id": "B9.21.24", "lines": ["Ride swiftly, tarry not by night or day,", "And take two hundred horsemen on your way."]}, {"id": "B9.21.25", "lines": ["Take precious gifts from all our treasure-store,", "And bear them swiftly to Siavash’s door."]}, {"id": "B9.21.26", "lines": ["Bring Arab steeds with golden trappings rare,", "And Indian blades in golden sheaths to bear."]}, {"id": "B9.21.27", "lines": ["A jeweled crown a mighty king might wear,", "A hundred camel-loads of carpets fair."]}, {"id": "B9.21.28", "lines": ["Two hundred slaves, both women and men,", "Shall travel with the gifts you carry then."]}, {"id": "B9.21.29", "lines": ["Say this to him: ‘I seek with you no feud,", "Nor is our war on Iran’s realm renewed."]}, {"id": "B9.21.30", "lines": ["The lands as far as Jihun are my own;", "In Sughd I rule a kingdom set alone."]}, {"id": "B9.21.31", "lines": ["Through Tur and Salm the world was overturned,", "And what lay low rose high as hatred burned."]}, {"id": "B9.21.32", "lines": ["When innocent Iraj by brothers bled,", "The wisdom of the great from counsel fled."]}, {"id": "B9.21.33", "lines": ["Turan and Iran once were free of strife,", "Before this hatred cut the bonds of life."]}, {"id": "B9.21.34", "lines": ["In Yazdan I place hope that there may rise", "A day of joy beneath auspicious skies."]}, {"id": "B9.21.35", "lines": ["Yazdan has brought you forth from Iran’s land,", "And made you dear to every warrior band."]}, {"id": "B9.21.36", "lines": ["Let your good fortune bring the world to rest,", "And hide both war and evil east and west."]}, {"id": "B9.21.37", "lines": ["Now Garsivaz has come to counsel you,", "And set your subtle judgment straight and true."]}, {"id": "B9.21.38", "lines": ["As Fereydoon once portioned out the land,", "So let us make that ancient concord stand."]}, {"id": "B9.21.39", "lines": ["Then let us turn our feet from war and wrong,", "And leave revenge that has endured so long."]}, {"id": "B9.21.40", "lines": ["As king yourself, speak with Kavus of peace;", "Perhaps his hardened heart may let war cease."]}, {"id": "B9.21.41", "lines": ["Speak sweetly also in the Piltan’s ear,", "And win him with good counsel, just and clear."]}, {"id": "B9.21.42", "lines": ["Give Rostam wealth and gifts of every kind,", "So peace may follow from a settled mind."]}, {"id": "B9.21.43", "lines": ["But not the golden throne, for he is no Shah;", "A Pahlevan does not hold royal law.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.22.1", "lines": ["So Garsivaz set out with treasures grand,", "Whose splendor lit the road on either hand."]}, {"id": "B9.22.2", "lines": ["He sped until he reached the Jihun’s side,", "And sent a messenger ahead to ride."]}, {"id": "B9.22.3", "lines": ["“Go tell the prince,” he said, “that I am near,", "And bear him word that Garsivaz is here.”"]}, {"id": "B9.22.4", "lines": ["By boat he crossed the Jihun in one day,", "Then hastened on toward Balkh without delay."]}, {"id": "B9.22.5", "lines": ["The envoy came and spoke his message through;", "Siavash heard and asked for Rostam’s view."]}, {"id": "B9.22.6", "lines": ["With Rostam, famed and wise and strong, he weighed", "The matter from each side before him laid."]}, {"id": "B9.22.7", "lines": ["He cleared the way as Garsivaz drew near,", "Then rose with smiles and welcomed him with cheer."]}, {"id": "B9.22.8", "lines": ["He welcomed him with courtesy and praise,", "While Garsivaz bowed low beneath his gaze."]}, {"id": "B9.22.9", "lines": ["He kissed the ground, his heart oppressed with dread,", "And came in shame with low and downcast head."]}, {"id": "B9.22.10", "lines": ["Siavash placed him lower than the throne,", "And asked of Afrasiab in kindly tone."]}, {"id": "B9.22.11", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz beheld the princely state,", "The throne, the crown, the splendor rich and great."]}, {"id": "B9.22.12", "lines": ["He spoke to Rostam: “When the Shah first knew", "That you were here, Afrasiab sent me through."]}, {"id": "B9.22.13", "lines": ["A gift to Siavash, worthy of his name,", "He charged me to present, and thus I came.”"]}, {"id": "B9.22.14", "lines": ["He called his men to bring the gifts they bore,", "And spread them out the prince’s seat before."]}, {"id": "B9.22.15", "lines": ["From gate to court stood horses, slaves, and gold,", "With silver coins and treasures manifold."]}, {"id": "B9.22.16", "lines": ["The dinars, crowns, and lofty thrones arrayed", "Were far past count, however men surveyed."]}, {"id": "B9.22.17", "lines": ["Young pages stood in caps and girdles fair,", "And servants wore gold bracelets, collars rare."]}, {"id": "B9.22.18", "lines": ["Siavash looked on with pleasure in his face,", "Then heard the Shah’s full message in its place."]}, {"id": "B9.22.19", "lines": ["But Rostam said: “Let us feast for a week,", "Then we shall give the answer that they seek."]}, {"id": "B9.22.20", "lines": ["For such a matter asks for prudent thought,", "And counsel from the wise men must be sought.”"]}, {"id": "B9.22.21", "lines": ["Wise Garsivaz bent low beside the throne,", "And pressed his hair and face against its stone."]}, {"id": "B9.22.22", "lines": ["They hung his lodging round with rich brocade,", "And cooks were called so every need was made."]}, {"id": "B9.22.23", "lines": ["Then Siavash and Rostam left the hall,", "And withdrew apart from council and from all."]}, {"id": "B9.22.24", "lines": ["They sat awake together, long in thought,", "And weighed the hidden purpose he had brought."]}, {"id": "B9.22.25", "lines": ["For Rostam marked the speed with which he came,", "And feared some secret purpose in the same."]}, {"id": "B9.22.26", "lines": ["He sent his scouts on every road around,", "To search each way and bring back what they found."]}, {"id": "B9.22.27", "lines": ["Then Siavash said: “Bring this secret clear;", "Reveal the hidden cause that brought him here."]}, {"id": "B9.22.28", "lines": ["Why does Afrasiab now sue for peace?", "What nush-daru can cure this poison’s lease?"]}, {"id": "B9.22.29", "lines": ["Choose one hundred kinsmen of renown,", "His closest blood, as pledges to the crown."]}, {"id": "B9.22.30", "lines": ["Let Afrasiab send those men in trust,", "And clear our darkened counsel, as he must."]}, {"id": "B9.22.31", "lines": ["See how our strength has troubled him inside,", "Yet beats a drum beneath the carpet’s hide."]}, {"id": "B9.22.32", "lines": ["When this is done, send one we trust away,", "To bear the news to Kavus without stay."]}, {"id": "B9.22.33", "lines": ["Perhaps his heart will let its anger cease,", "And turn from thoughts of war to thoughts of peace.”"]}, {"id": "B9.22.34", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “This course alone is sound;", "No other way can peace be firmly bound.”"]}, {"id": "B9.23.1", "lines": ["At dawn Garsivaz appeared before the throne,", "With cap and belt, in courtly bearing shown."]}, {"id": "B9.23.2", "lines": ["Admitted in, he bowed and kissed the ground,", "And paid his court with reverence profound."]}, {"id": "B9.23.3", "lines": ["The prince then asked: “How fared the night in cheer,", "Amid the camp, the feast, and tumult near?”"]}, {"id": "B9.23.4", "lines": ["Then added: “As for what you came to say,", "I have considered it in every way."]}, {"id": "B9.23.5", "lines": ["In this our aims are one, and well agreed:", "To end all vengeance, and the bloody deed."]}, {"id": "B9.23.6", "lines": ["So take this answer to your king to hear:", "Let vengeance leave his mind and peace draw near."]}, {"id": "B9.23.7", "lines": ["Who sees where evil leads should turn aside,", "And never let its path his steps misguide."]}, {"id": "B9.23.8", "lines": ["The heart adorned by wisdom, bright and pure,", "Becomes a treasury of wealth secure."]}, {"id": "B9.23.9", "lines": ["If honey masks no poison in this vow,", "And vengeance has no place within him now,"]}, {"id": "B9.23.10", "lines": ["Then let him send a pledge, that all may see", "His faith is true, and doubt and darkness flee."]}, {"id": "B9.23.11", "lines": ["A hundred of his blood must bind the peace", "As hostages, that all mistrust may cease."]}, {"id": "B9.23.12", "lines": ["Men Rostam knows, renowned in rank and fame,", "The very kinsmen Rostam chose by name."]}, {"id": "B9.23.13", "lines": ["And he must yield each town in Iran’s lands", "That he now holds, as ancient right demands."]}, {"id": "B9.23.14", "lines": ["Then let him back to Turan’s borders go,", "And rest from war and vengeance with the foe."]}, {"id": "B9.23.15", "lines": ["Let truth alone between us firmly stand;", "Let none for vengeance raise a hostile hand."]}, {"id": "B9.23.16", "lines": ["And I will write, and urge the Shah this day", "To call his army home and end the fray.”"]}, {"id": "B9.23.17", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz dispatched a rider fast,", "Who rode as swiftly as the driving blast."]}, {"id": "B9.23.18", "lines": ["“Delay no more,” he said, “but spur your steed,", "And bear to Afrasiab the terms decreed."]}, {"id": "B9.23.19", "lines": ["Tell him I hastened, and my suit was won,", "And all I came to seek has now been done."]}, {"id": "B9.23.20", "lines": ["But Siavash requires these pledges sure,", "If peace is sought and peace is to endure.”"]}, {"id": "B9.23.21", "lines": ["The rider came, and to the monarch told", "The message plain, and all the terms unrolled."]}, {"id": "B9.23.22", "lines": ["The king grew troubled, doubtful in his mind,", "And weighed what course would leave least harm behind."]}, {"id": "B9.23.23", "lines": ["“If I give up a hundred kin in pledge,", "My strength in battle nears the ruin’s edge."]}, {"id": "B9.23.24", "lines": ["No loyal well-wisher would then remain,", "To guard my court or share the battle’s strain."]}, {"id": "B9.23.25", "lines": ["Yet if I now refuse such terms outright,", "My offer will seem false before his sight."]}, {"id": "B9.23.26", "lines": ["So I must yield, though danger lies in this;", "Perhaps through this my ruin I may miss.”"]}, {"id": "B9.23.27", "lines": ["He chose a hundred kinsmen, those whose names", "Were set on Rostam’s list among his claims."]}, {"id": "B9.23.28", "lines": ["He gave them robes and gifts of royal grace,", "Then sent them forth to Siavash’s place."]}, {"id": "B9.23.29", "lines": ["The koust resounded, karnays gave the call,", "The royal pavilion came down before all."]}, {"id": "B9.23.30", "lines": ["From fair Bukhara, Sughd, and Samarkand,", "From Chakh and Sipanjab, he drew his hand."]}, {"id": "B9.23.31", "lines": ["He led his men toward Gang without delay,", "No pretext made, no turning from the way."]}, {"id": "B9.23.32", "lines": ["When Rostam heard that all had been fulfilled,", "His troubled heart grew calm and doubt was stilled."]}, {"id": "B9.23.33", "lines": ["He came to Siavash and told him all,", "Recounting every word he could recall."]}, {"id": "B9.23.34", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “The terms are fully met;", "Let Garsivaz depart without regret.”"]}, {"id": "B9.23.35", "lines": ["Then Siavash prepared a princely prize:", "A helmet, belt, and arms of costly guise."]}, {"id": "B9.23.36", "lines": ["A steed caparisoned in gold brocade,", "And, sheathed in gold, a costly Indian blade."]}, {"id": "B9.23.37", "lines": ["When Garsivaz beheld that royal boon,", "He saw on earth the rising of the moon."]}, {"id": "B9.23.38", "lines": ["Garsivaz took his leave, his blessings said,", "And folded earth beneath him as he sped."]}, {"id": "B9.24.1", "lines": ["Siavash took his seat of ivory white,", "The crown hung high above him, gleaming bright."]}, {"id": "B9.24.2", "lines": ["He pondered whom to send with measured speech,", "A man whose words the royal ear could reach."]}, {"id": "B9.24.3", "lines": ["Whose speech had force, discretion, tact, and grace,", "And knew the temper of the royal place."]}, {"id": "B9.24.4", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “Who dares to bear this word", "To Kavus, whose swift wrath is lightly stirred?"]}, {"id": "B9.24.5", "lines": ["His temper sharp grows fiercer day by day,", "His harshness will increase, not fall away."]}, {"id": "B9.24.6", "lines": ["Perhaps I should myself convey the tale,", "And lift before Kavus the hidden veil."]}, {"id": "B9.24.7", "lines": ["At your command I would cross earth for you;", "I see but good in making this journey through.”"]}, {"id": "B9.24.8", "lines": ["Then Siavash rejoiced: his mind found rest,", "And talk of other envoys was suppressed."]}, {"id": "B9.24.9", "lines": ["With Rostam then he shaped the message clear,", "And set each term in words for Kavus’s ear."]}, {"id": "B9.24.10", "lines": ["He called a scribe and bade him to prepare", "Upon fine silk the words he would declare."]}, {"id": "B9.24.11", "lines": ["He praised the Judge, from whom all gifts descend,", "Strength, farr, and skill that serve us to the end:"]}, {"id": "B9.24.12", "lines": ["“Yazdan of time, of intellect, and might,", "Who nourishes the soul with wisdom’s light."]}, {"id": "B9.24.13", "lines": ["None may transgress His covenant or way;", "Who turns from it sees fortune waste away."]}, {"id": "B9.24.14", "lines": ["From Him come increase, rectitude, and gain;", "Through Him all right and justice shall remain."]}, {"id": "B9.24.15", "lines": ["From Him who shaped the sun and moon in light,", "Who makes crown, throne, and royal headgear bright,"]}, {"id": "B9.24.16", "lines": ["May blessings fall upon the world’s great king,", "The chosen of the famed, whose praises ring."]}, {"id": "B9.24.17", "lines": ["His judgment reaches every good and ill;", "And wisdom forms the pillar of his will."]}, {"id": "B9.24.18", "lines": ["I came to Balkh in spring, in fortune’s prime,", "And joy and fortune marked that happy time."]}, {"id": "B9.24.19", "lines": ["When Afrasiab heard I had drawn near,", "The sun before his eyes turned black with fear."]}, {"id": "B9.24.20", "lines": ["The matter grew severe; the world seemed strange,", "His fortune sank beneath that sudden change."]}, {"id": "B9.24.21", "lines": ["His brother came with gifts and servants fair,", "To seek the Shah’s protection and his care."]}, {"id": "B9.24.22", "lines": ["Afrasiab shall keep within his border,", "And know his rank within the rightful order."]}, {"id": "B9.24.23", "lines": ["He shall not cross to Iran anymore,", "But purge revenge and rancor from his core."]}, {"id": "B9.24.24", "lines": ["He sends as pledge a hundred of his kin,", "To prove his faith, and let the peace begin."]}, {"id": "B9.24.25", "lines": ["And Rostam comes to seek your pardon still;", "His face itself bears witness to goodwill.”"]}, {"id": "B9.24.26", "lines": ["Then Rostam set out in a royal state,", "With banner borne and retinue so great."]}, {"id": "B9.24.27", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz rode swiftly on his road,", "Back to the court where Afrasiab abode."]}, {"id": "B9.24.28", "lines": ["He praised to Afrasiab the prince’s fame,", "And told his deeds, his conduct, and his name."]}, {"id": "B9.24.29", "lines": ["“No king on earth his equal can we find,", "In goodness, form, and conduct so refined."]}, {"id": "B9.24.30", "lines": ["His mind is keen, his heart and speech are sound,", "And modesty in all his ways is found."]}, {"id": "B9.24.31", "lines": ["Brave, eloquent, a horseman famed for skill,", "With wisdom in his heart to guide his will.”"]}, {"id": "B9.24.32", "lines": ["The monarch smiled: “Wise counsel wins the day;", "A remedy is better than the fray."]}, {"id": "B9.24.33", "lines": ["That evil dream filled all my heart with woe;", "From heights of power I saw my fortune low."]}, {"id": "B9.24.34", "lines": ["In pain I sought a remedy from grief,", "That from my body’s torment brought relief."]}, {"id": "B9.24.35", "lines": ["With treasure and with silver I made way,", "And all has turned as I had hoped today.”"]}, {"id": "B9.25.1", "lines": ["Then Rostam, lion-hearted, came to greet", "The Shah and stood before the royal seat. "]}, {"id": "B9.25.2", "lines": ["He bowed with folded arms; then Kavus rose,", "And clasped the chief whom long ago he chose."]}, {"id": "B9.25.3", "lines": ["He asked of Siavash and of the fight,", "The battles waged, the army’s course and plight."]}, {"id": "B9.25.4", "lines": ["He asked what brought him back along the way,", "And all that had befallen day by day."]}, {"id": "B9.25.5", "lines": ["Then Rostam praised the prince before the band,", "And placed the letter in the monarch’s hand."]}, {"id": "B9.25.6", "lines": ["A scribe then read the message clear and loud;", "The Shah’s face blackened like a pitch-dark cloud."]}, {"id": "B9.25.7", "lines": ["He cried: “The boy is young and guileless yet,", "And has not learned the snares the wicked set."]}, {"id": "B9.25.8", "lines": ["But you are seasoned, knowing good and ill,", "Well versed in every turn of fortune’s will."]}, {"id": "B9.25.9", "lines": ["No man in all the world can match your might;", "The lions learn from you the art of fight."]}, {"id": "B9.25.10", "lines": ["Have you not marked the havoc he has spread,", "How food and sleep and rest from us have fled?"]}, {"id": "B9.25.11", "lines": ["I wished myself to march against the foe;", "My head was filled with war and wished the blow."]}, {"id": "B9.25.12", "lines": ["But men advised: ‘Let Siavash command’;", "And so I yielded and withheld my hand."]}, {"id": "B9.25.13", "lines": ["When Yazdan’s judgment called for wrongs to pay,", "And evil deeds had earned their evil day,"]}, {"id": "B9.25.14", "lines": ["You chose instead the road of private gain,", "And left the path of justice clear and plain."]}, {"id": "B9.25.15", "lines": ["Afrasiab has dazzled you with gold,", "With wealth torn from the innocent of old."]}, {"id": "B9.25.16", "lines": ["A hundred Turks, base-born and without fame,", "You do not know their fathers or their name."]}, {"id": "B9.25.17", "lines": ["To Afrasiab they count like stream-born spray;", "Their loss would never turn him from his way."]}, {"id": "B9.25.18", "lines": ["I am not weary yet of war’s campaigns;", "My strength for battle and for strife remains."]}, {"id": "B9.25.19", "lines": ["I still can send a learned man and wise,", "To make my purpose plain before his eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.25.20", "lines": ["Tell Siavash: ‘Raise up a mighty fire,", "And bind the Turks in fetters strong and dire."]}, {"id": "B9.25.21", "lines": ["Cast all their goods together in the flame,", "And take no smallest portion in their name."]}, {"id": "B9.25.22", "lines": ["Send them in chains that I may take their heads,", "And number all their bodies with the dead."]}, {"id": "B9.25.23", "lines": ["Lead forth your army toward Afrasiab’s land,", "And loose its force at once at your command."]}, {"id": "B9.25.24", "lines": ["Fall on them as the wolf falls on the fold,", "Until their strength lies shattered, still, and cold."]}, {"id": "B9.25.25", "lines": ["Then let the army plunder, burn, and spoil,", "And cast their gathered riches on the soil."]}, {"id": "B9.25.26", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab will rise and seek the fight,", "When ease and sleep no longer bring delight.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.25.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “O Shah, restrain your ire,", "And hear my counsel before feeding fire."]}, {"id": "B9.25.28", "lines": ["The world lies wholly subject to your will;", "Yet hear me first, and then your wish fulfill."]}, {"id": "B9.25.29", "lines": ["You said before: ‘Do not cross the stream;", "Hold back the army from the battle scheme."]}, {"id": "B9.25.30", "lines": ["Wait till Afrasiab himself should fight;", "Then meet his battle with your gathered might.’"]}, {"id": "B9.25.31", "lines": ["So we obeyed and waited for his blow,", "But he first opened peace and willed it so."]}, {"id": "B9.25.32", "lines": ["It would be shame to strike at one who yields,", "Who comes with peace and feast instead of shields."]}, {"id": "B9.25.33", "lines": ["No loyal well-wisher would counsel you", "To break a bond and make your promise untrue."]}, {"id": "B9.25.34", "lines": ["When Siavash had conquered in the fight,", "Was not the time for feast and glad delight?"]}, {"id": "B9.25.35", "lines": ["What more could you desire? Crown, throne, and seal,", "Iran’s full treasury, and rest made real."]}, {"id": "B9.25.36", "lines": ["You have it all; then seek no needless war,", "Nor wash your bright heart with turbid streams more."]}, {"id": "B9.25.37", "lines": ["If Afrasiab hides betrayal’s snare,", "And covenant-breaking beneath words fair,"]}, {"id": "B9.25.38", "lines": ["We are not weary of the battle’s call;", "The sword remains, and so the lion’s gall."]}, {"id": "B9.25.39", "lines": ["Then you and Siavash shall reign in peace,", "On Iran’s golden throne till troubles cease."]}, {"id": "B9.25.40", "lines": ["While I from Zabul lead a small armed band,", "And leave no throne in all of Turan’s land."]}, {"id": "B9.25.41", "lines": ["With gorz in hand, I shall eclipse the sun,", "And darken day before the fight is done."]}, {"id": "B9.25.42", "lines": ["For many wars between us have been fought;", "Perhaps another trial is what he sought."]}, {"id": "B9.25.43", "lines": ["Do not compel your son to break his word,", "Nor urge a deed that guilt would make absurd."]}, {"id": "B9.25.44", "lines": ["I speak the truth and hide no part from you:", "Your son will keep his covenant firm and true."]}, {"id": "B9.25.45", "lines": ["If you persist, his fortune will grow dim,", "And joy will leave your heart through grief for him.”"]}, {"id": "B9.26.1", "lines": ["Then Kay Kavus, in wrath, with blazing eyes,", "Turned fiercely on Rostam with bitter cries."]}, {"id": "B9.26.2", "lines": ["“The truth stands plain at last for all to see;", "No longer can this matter hidden be."]}, {"id": "B9.26.3", "lines": ["You set this counsel firmly in his head,", "And tore revenge out by the root instead."]}, {"id": "B9.26.4", "lines": ["You sought your own ease, not the royal gain,", "Nor crown, nor throne, nor seal of Iran’s reign."]}, {"id": "B9.26.5", "lines": ["Remain here now; no more shall you command;", "Let Tus now lead the forces of the land."]}, {"id": "B9.26.6", "lines": ["A swift courier to Balkh I now shall send,", "With bitter words within the letter penned."]}, {"id": "B9.26.7", "lines": ["If Siavash will not obey my call,", "Let him yield up the army, men and all."]}, {"id": "B9.26.8", "lines": ["Let Tus command; let Siavash return,", "With chosen men, and what awaits him learn."]}, {"id": "B9.26.9", "lines": ["Then let the prince before my throne appear,", "And see from me what treatment fits him here."]}, {"id": "B9.26.10", "lines": ["No longer shall I call you friend of mine,", "Nor ask you now to lead my battle line.”"]}, {"id": "B9.26.11", "lines": ["Then Rostam cried, his anger fierce and high:", "“If Tus is Rostam in your royal eye,"]}, {"id": "B9.26.12", "lines": ["Then count me vanished from the world of men,", "And reckon Rostam dead among you then.”"]}, {"id": "B9.26.13", "lines": ["He left the court, his heart with anger stirred,", "His spirit raged; his face grew pale and blurred."]}, {"id": "B9.26.14", "lines": ["With all his forces toward Sistan he turned,", "And swiftly rode while wrath within him churned."]}, {"id": "B9.26.15", "lines": ["The Shah then summoned Tus and gave command", "To lead the army forth across the land."]}, {"id": "B9.26.16", "lines": ["Tus left the court and called the troops to go;", "The buq and koust resounded, loud and low."]}, {"id": "B9.26.17", "lines": ["They armed to march and put all ease away,", "Their hearts and counsel turned from rest that day."]}, {"id": "B9.27.1", "lines": ["The Shah prepared a courier for the way,", "And bade him, swift and ready, make no delay."]}, {"id": "B9.27.2", "lines": ["Then Kay Kavus called forth his scribe, and then", "Beside the throne he seated him with pen."]}, {"id": "B9.27.3", "lines": ["He wrote in wrath and war, with sharpened tongue,", "A letter fierce, with wine-dark color hung."]}, {"id": "B9.27.4", "lines": ["He first gave praise to God who rules above,", "Yazdan of war and peace, of rest and love."]}, {"id": "B9.27.5", "lines": ["He rules Mars, Saturn, moon, all good and ill,", "And grants both farr and station by His will."]}, {"id": "B9.27.6", "lines": ["The circling heavens wheel as He ordains,", "And favor flows from Him through all domains."]}, {"id": "B9.27.7", "lines": ["“May health and fortune hold you in embrace,", "With throne and crown that nothing can displace."]}, {"id": "B9.27.8", "lines": ["Though you have cast aside what I decreed,", "The sleep of youth has clouded thought and deed."]}, {"id": "B9.27.9", "lines": ["You know what grief he brought Iran of old,", "When battle’s fortune made his courage bold."]}, {"id": "B9.27.10", "lines": ["Now show no heedless honor to the foe,", "Nor stain the royal court with shame brought low."]}, {"id": "B9.27.11", "lines": ["Let youth no longer lead your mind astray,", "And keep the turning heavens’ blows at bay."]}, {"id": "B9.27.12", "lines": ["Send me those hostages in chains made fast,", "Their hands and feet in iron fetters cast."]}, {"id": "B9.27.13", "lines": ["No marvel if his craft deceives you too;", "Recall how often he deceived me through."]}, {"id": "B9.27.14", "lines": ["His cunning words have turned me back from fight,", "And drawn me from the battle I thought right."]}, {"id": "B9.27.15", "lines": ["I gave no word for peace, yet you have turned", "From my command, whose terms you should have learned."]}, {"id": "B9.27.16", "lines": ["You joined the beauties in their sport and play,", "And from the field of battle turned away."]}, {"id": "B9.27.17", "lines": ["And Rostam too is tempted now by gold,", "No wealth can satisfy his grasping hold."]}, {"id": "B9.27.18", "lines": ["Your thoughts were not on war or battle’s fame,", "The fire for combat in you ceased to flame."]}, {"id": "B9.27.19", "lines": ["Then seek with sword the gate of full renown,", "For kings win glory when the foe goes down."]}, {"id": "B9.27.20", "lines": ["When Tus is come, let him your charge assume,", "And set your whole command in proper room."]}, {"id": "B9.27.21", "lines": ["Set all the hostages without delay", "In heavy chains, on asses sent away."]}, {"id": "B9.27.22", "lines": ["It is decreed that through this peace you fall,", "And ruin overwhelm your fortunes all."]}, {"id": "B9.27.23", "lines": ["Then Iran’s realm shall hear the evil word,", "And prosperous days by turmoil shall be stirred."]}, {"id": "B9.27.24", "lines": ["Prepare for war, for vengeance, and for might;", "Let no more words delay the coming fight."]}, {"id": "B9.27.25", "lines": ["When through the darkness you prepare the raid,", "Make Jihun from the dust your army made."]}, {"id": "B9.27.26", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab will not remain at rest,", "But come to war and put his strength to test."]}, {"id": "B9.27.27", "lines": ["But if you favor him, the fiendish foe,", "And fear the name oath-breaker men bestow,"]}, {"id": "B9.27.28", "lines": ["Then yield command to Tus and come away;", "You are not fit for battle’s bitter day.”"]}, {"id": "B9.27.29", "lines": ["They sealed the letter; then the courier flew,", "As though on wings, and swiftly onward drew."]}, {"id": "B9.27.30", "lines": ["When Siavash received those words of blame,", "He called the messenger and asked the same."]}, {"id": "B9.27.31", "lines": ["He pressed him close until the truth was known,", "And all the matter plainly to him shown."]}, {"id": "B9.27.32", "lines": ["The man recounted all the Shah had said,", "Of Tus and Rostam, and the wrath that spread."]}, {"id": "B9.27.33", "lines": ["Then Siavash grew heavy at the word,", "And grieved for Rostam at the things he heard."]}, {"id": "B9.27.34", "lines": ["He pondered on his father and the Turks,", "And on the changing course where battle works."]}, {"id": "B9.27.35", "lines": ["“A hundred valiant horsemen, royal kin,", "All loyal friends, and guiltless men within."]}, {"id": "B9.27.36", "lines": ["If I should send them captive to his court,", "They go as innocents to death in short."]}, {"id": "B9.27.37", "lines": ["He will not pause to question how or why;", "He will hang them alive and let them die."]}, {"id": "B9.27.38", "lines": ["What answer can I give to Yazdan’s gaze?", "My father’s deeds have brought these bitter days."]}, {"id": "B9.27.39", "lines": ["If I attack his foe without just claim,", "And wage a causeless war, I earn the blame."]}, {"id": "B9.27.40", "lines": ["Yazdan would not approve this deed of shame,", "And every tongue would rise against my name."]}, {"id": "B9.27.41", "lines": ["Yet if to Tus I leave the army’s fate,", "And turn to court, fresh evils lie in wait."]}, {"id": "B9.27.42", "lines": ["I see harm right and left, before my eyes;", "From Sudabeh fresh evil will arise."]}, {"id": "B9.27.43", "lines": ["Whichever path I choose, dark troubles grow;", "Yazdan’s will stays hidden; I cannot know.”"]}, {"id": "B9.28.1", "lines": ["Then Siavash called Bahram to his side,", "And Zangeh too, on whom his heart relied."]}, {"id": "B9.28.2", "lines": ["He sent away all strangers from the place,", "And seated both before him face to face."]}, {"id": "B9.28.3", "lines": ["Since Rostam left, his secrets they had shared,", "And for his private counsel both prepared."]}, {"id": "B9.28.4", "lines": ["Then spoke the prince: “Misfortune crowns my days,", "And fate has bound my life in tangled ways."]}, {"id": "B9.28.5", "lines": ["My father’s love was once a spreading tree,", "Whose fruit and shade were given full and free."]}, {"id": "B9.28.6", "lines": ["But Sudabeh poisoned all that love with pain,", "And made its sweetness deadly grief and bane."]}, {"id": "B9.28.7", "lines": ["Her chamber closed around me like a snare,", "My smiling fortune withered to despair."]}, {"id": "B9.28.8", "lines": ["So passed my days in misery and ire,", "Till love itself bore nothing else but fire."]}, {"id": "B9.28.9", "lines": ["I chose the hardship of the field and fight,", "And left behind the feast and court’s delight."]}, {"id": "B9.28.10", "lines": ["At Balkh a mighty army held the ground,", "With vengeful Garsivaz its chief renowned."]}, {"id": "B9.28.11", "lines": ["While Afrasiab in Sughd for war grew strong,", "A hundred thousand swordsmen formed his throng."]}, {"id": "B9.28.12", "lines": ["We marched against them, eager for the fray,", "Resolved to meet their challenge on the way."]}, {"id": "B9.28.13", "lines": ["They cleared the country, leaving field and town,", "With hostages and gifts, their weapons down."]}, {"id": "B9.28.14", "lines": ["The Mobadan all urged the wiser course,", "And counseled us to halt the battle’s force:"]}, {"id": "B9.28.15", "lines": ["‘If war was fought to gain both wealth and land,", "Now treasure and the realm are in our hand."]}, {"id": "B9.28.16", "lines": ["Why spill men’s blood and root revenge in hearts,", "Where hatred grows and every peace departs?"]}, {"id": "B9.28.17", "lines": ["A witless mind can neither judge nor see,", "Nor tell the worse from what the better be.’"]}, {"id": "B9.28.18", "lines": ["Good Qobad came, then left this world behind;", "We too must pass, as all of humankind."]}, {"id": "B9.28.19", "lines": ["My deeds displease the Shah, who seeks my woe,", "Though blameless I, and no man’s guilty foe."]}, {"id": "B9.28.20", "lines": ["He bids me fight though justice gives no cause,", "And break my oath and Yazdan’s sacred laws."]}, {"id": "B9.28.21", "lines": ["I will not turn my head from Yazdan’s way,", "Nor leave the path good men have kept each day."]}, {"id": "B9.28.22", "lines": ["The Shah would strip me of this world and next,", "And leave me to Ahriman, sorely vexed."]}, {"id": "B9.28.23", "lines": ["If once again we meet in warlike strife,", "Who knows what fate awaits us in that life?"]}, {"id": "B9.28.24", "lines": ["Would that my mother never gave me birth,", "Or death had claimed me when I came to earth."]}, {"id": "B9.28.25", "lines": ["Why must I bear such sorrow, grief, and woe,", "And taste each bitter pain that fate can show?"]}, {"id": "B9.28.26", "lines": ["This tree has risen tall through grief and pain,", "Its fruit is poison, and its leaves are bane."]}, {"id": "B9.28.27", "lines": ["These oaths were sworn before Yazdan divine;", "Shall I betray a pledge that bears His sign?"]}, {"id": "B9.28.28", "lines": ["If I should turn my head away from right,", "Loss would approach me from each side in sight."]}, {"id": "B9.28.29", "lines": ["Then every tongue would open to my shame,", "And everywhere men would condemn my name."]}, {"id": "B9.28.30", "lines": ["The world has heard that I have sworn this peace;", "With Turan’s Shah I swore that war should cease."]}, {"id": "B9.28.31", "lines": ["To turn to vengeance is to leave my creed,", "And turn from faith in both my thought and deed."]}, {"id": "B9.28.32", "lines": ["Will Yazdan bless me if I break my vow,", "And wake the war that I have ended now?"]}, {"id": "B9.28.33", "lines": ["I will withdraw and seek a distant ground,", "Far from the Shah, where quiet may be found."]}, {"id": "B9.28.34", "lines": ["The course of time lies not within my hand;", "In Yazdan’s high decree alone I stand."]}, {"id": "B9.28.35", "lines": ["Then Zangeh, son of Shavaran, arise,", "Prepare for toil, and act with watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.28.36", "lines": ["Ride swift to Afrasiab and report;", "Do not delay, and cut your slumber short."]}, {"id": "B9.28.37", "lines": ["Give him the hostages, the wealth, the store,", "The gold and treasure Garsivaz once bore."]}, {"id": "B9.28.38", "lines": ["Lay all of these before Afrasiab’s feet,", "And tell him what misfortunes now we meet.”"]}, {"id": "B9.28.39", "lines": ["To Bahram, son of Gudarz, thus he said:", "“To you I trust the men that I have led."]}, {"id": "B9.28.40", "lines": ["The camp, the koust, the elephants, the might;", "Remain in place till Tus appears in sight."]}, {"id": "B9.28.41", "lines": ["Then yield the army wholly to his hand,", "And place its stores and wealth at his command."]}, {"id": "B9.28.42", "lines": ["Count all before him, let each store be shown,", "The treasure, horses and the golden throne.”"]}, {"id": "B9.28.43", "lines": ["When Bahram heard these words, his heart was torn,", "While Zangeh wept, his spirit left forlorn."]}, {"id": "B9.28.44", "lines": ["On Siavash bold Zangeh turned his eyes, ", "And blood-like tears ran down beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B9.28.45", "lines": ["They sat together, troubled and dismayed,", "By all that Siavash had now conveyed."]}, {"id": "B9.28.46", "lines": ["Then Bahram spoke: “This course must not be so;", "Apart from your own father, where can you go?"]}, {"id": "B9.28.47", "lines": ["Write to your father and his grace implore,", "And call back Rostam as you did before."]}, {"id": "B9.28.48", "lines": ["If still he bids you fight, then fight the foe;", "The rift is small, let not the sorrow grow."]}, {"id": "B9.28.49", "lines": ["Or if you seek for rest, that too is near;", "To ask forgiveness brings no shame or fear."]}, {"id": "B9.28.50", "lines": ["Send me to Kavus; I will plead your part,", "And bring new brightness to his darkened heart."]}, {"id": "B9.28.51", "lines": ["If gifts and treasure weigh upon your mind,", "Relinquish them, and leave this war behind."]}, {"id": "B9.28.52", "lines": ["Though war is all the letter asks of you,", "No charge it makes lies past what we can do."]}, {"id": "B9.28.53", "lines": ["If Kavus wills it, we will take the field,", "And crush the foe, and force his power to yield."]}, {"id": "B9.28.54", "lines": ["Prolong no useless thought within your care;", "With gentle words your father’s head ensnare."]}, {"id": "B9.28.55", "lines": ["Do not make dark the days we now have seen,", "When this great tree has fruited rich and green."]}, {"id": "B9.28.56", "lines": ["Fill not your eye, your crown, your throne with gore,", "Nor make the royal tree bear fruit no more."]}, {"id": "B9.28.57", "lines": ["Without you, what are throne and crown at all?", "The door and curtain darken through the hall."]}, {"id": "B9.28.58", "lines": ["His head is a fire-temple, fierce with flame;", "His cause for war is purposeless in aim."]}, {"id": "B9.28.59", "lines": ["Yet if fate wills it so, why should I try?", "No word of mine can turn the wheel on high.”"]}, {"id": "B9.28.60", "lines": ["The prince refused the counsel of the wise,", "For heaven had shaped a road beyond their eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.28.61", "lines": ["He said: “The Shah’s command is lifted far", "Above the shining sun and moon and star."]}, {"id": "B9.28.62", "lines": ["From straw to lion, elephant and all,", "None dares defy Yazdan’s command or call."]}, {"id": "B9.28.63", "lines": ["Who turns away from what Yazdan decreed,", "Has lost the path of wisdom in his need."]}, {"id": "B9.28.64", "lines": ["Shall I then raise my hand to spill more blood,", "And plunge two realms again in crimson flood?"]}, {"id": "B9.28.65", "lines": ["For gifts and wealth he will torment me still,", "And wake old quarrels at his restless will."]}, {"id": "B9.28.66", "lines": ["If I return, this task but half begun,", "And face the Shah with nothing fully won,"]}, {"id": "B9.28.67", "lines": ["The same old wrath and quarrel will arise,", "And tears of grief again will fill my eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.28.68", "lines": ["If what I seek has darkened hearts in you,", "And you reject the words I hold as true,"]}, {"id": "B9.28.69", "lines": ["I shall myself be messenger and guide,", "And on this plain beneath my tent abide."]}, {"id": "B9.28.70", "lines": ["Who does not share the treasure that I gain,", "Why should he bear with me my grief and pain?”"]}, {"id": "B9.28.71", "lines": ["Then grief consumed the chiefs who heard him speak,", "Their spirits withered, sorrowful and weak."]}, {"id": "B9.28.72", "lines": ["For fear of parting, burning tears they shed,", "As if fierce fire were roasting them with dread."]}, {"id": "B9.28.73", "lines": ["Their hearts and eyes foresaw the evil day,", "And what the Shah concealed along the way."]}, {"id": "B9.28.74", "lines": ["They feared that they would see his face no more,", "And from their eyes the tears began to pour."]}, {"id": "B9.28.75", "lines": ["“For you,” said Zangeh, “we are slaves in heart;", "Our love for you will never stand apart."]}, {"id": "B9.28.76", "lines": ["May soul and body ransom you from death,", "And loyalty endure while we draw breath.”"]}, {"id": "B9.28.77", "lines": ["The gentle, prudent prince replied, “Now go,”", "And spoke to Zangeh, steadfast in his woe."]}, {"id": "B9.28.78", "lines": ["“Tell Afrasiab all that he should know, ", "And make him understand my grief and woe:"]}, {"id": "B9.28.79", "lines": ["‘This peace has brought me only war and pain;", "The sweets are yours, while poison is my gain."]}, {"id": "B9.28.80", "lines": ["Yet I shall keep the covenant with you,", "Though crown and throne are lost because I do."]}, {"id": "B9.28.81", "lines": ["Yazdan is my refuge; earth shall be my throne,", "And heaven be the crown I call my own."]}, {"id": "B9.28.82", "lines": ["With this great task undone I cannot face", "The Shah again or stand before his grace."]}, {"id": "B9.28.83", "lines": ["Then open me a road where I may fare,", "To that place Yazdan made my destined share."]}, {"id": "B9.28.84", "lines": ["Give me a distant land, unknown to fame,", "Where Kavus never comes to know my name."]}, {"id": "B9.28.85", "lines": ["Where none of Kavus’s bitter words I hear,", "And for a while may rest from strife and fear.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.29.1", "lines": ["Then Zangeh rode with chosen men of might,", "A hundred horsemen, nobly born and bright."]}, {"id": "B9.29.2", "lines": ["He bore the hostages and royal store,", "With all that Garsivaz had sent before."]}, {"id": "B9.29.3", "lines": ["When Zangeh reached the city of the king,", "The watchman saw him as the shouts took wing."]}, {"id": "B9.29.4", "lines": ["A warrior named Towrag came riding near,", "And welcomed him with honor and good cheer."]}, {"id": "B9.29.5", "lines": ["They led him in; Afrasiab then rose,", "And clasped him close before the watching rows."]}, {"id": "B9.29.6", "lines": ["He seated him beside him in his place,", "And heard the message, grave in heart and face."]}, {"id": "B9.29.7", "lines": ["The letter given, Zangeh spoke it through,", "And told each matter plainly, firm, and true."]}, {"id": "B9.29.8", "lines": ["Afrasiab grew troubled at the word,", "And anxious thoughts within his mind were stirred."]}, {"id": "B9.29.9", "lines": ["He gave command that Zangeh should be served,", "With every honor fitting and deserved."]}, {"id": "B9.29.10", "lines": ["Then called for Piran, trusted in command,", "Who came at once, and bowed, and took his stand."]}, {"id": "B9.29.11", "lines": ["The monarch cleared the hall of every man,", "Then privately with wise Piran began."]}, {"id": "B9.29.12", "lines": ["He spoke of Kay Kavus, whose words were crude,", "Whose vicious temper turned his thoughts to feud."]}, {"id": "B9.29.13", "lines": ["Afrasiab sat grave, oppressed with thought,", "For Siavash’s fate deep care had brought."]}, {"id": "B9.29.14", "lines": ["He told of Zangeh’s mission, end to end,", "And all the words the prince had sought to send."]}, {"id": "B9.29.15", "lines": ["“How shall we bind this matter into peace,", "And from such peril find a safe release?”"]}, {"id": "B9.29.16", "lines": ["Then Piran said: “O king, may joy be yours;", "May life endure as long as time endures."]}, {"id": "B9.29.17", "lines": ["In wisdom, treasure, valor, you excel,", "In every weighty matter judging well."]}, {"id": "B9.29.18", "lines": ["My thought and judgment lead me to this view,", "And this is what I counsel now to you."]}, {"id": "B9.29.19", "lines": ["Whoever can do good, concealed or known,", "Should not withhold it from this prince alone."]}, {"id": "B9.29.20", "lines": ["Let toil and treasure serve him, freely spent,", "And every form of aid be swiftly sent."]}, {"id": "B9.29.21", "lines": ["No prince like him beneath the heavens stands,", "In form and bearing, praised in all the lands."]}, {"id": "B9.29.22", "lines": ["In stature, form, composure, culture, grace,", "In judgment, worth, no prince can take his place."]}, {"id": "B9.29.23", "lines": ["His skill and wisdom crown his royal birth,", "No mother bore his equal on the earth."]}, {"id": "B9.29.24", "lines": ["To see him now is better than to hear;", "A priceless prince, among the great held dear."]}, {"id": "B9.29.25", "lines": ["If this alone were all his claim to fame,", "He saved a hundred men from death and shame."]}, {"id": "B9.29.26", "lines": ["He crossed his father, cast off crown and state,", "And seeks from you a road beyond your gate."]}, {"id": "B9.29.27", "lines": ["This realm should have a chief who prizes might,", "Who knows the worth of valor in his sight."]}, {"id": "B9.29.28", "lines": ["It would be folly to let him depart,", "Or lose the bond of such a noble heart."]}, {"id": "B9.29.29", "lines": ["Kavus is old and near the end of reign,", "The throne must pass when time completes its chain."]}, {"id": "B9.29.30", "lines": ["But Siavash is young, with farr his own,", "And soon will take his father’s royal throne."]}, {"id": "B9.29.31", "lines": ["The nobles would reproach you for what you do,", "And Siavash would bear a grievance too."]}, {"id": "B9.29.32", "lines": ["If now the king in wisdom sees it right,", "Then send a letter framed in gentle light."]}, {"id": "B9.29.33", "lines": ["Entreat the prince with kindness as your son,", "As loving fathers cherish such a one."]}, {"id": "B9.29.34", "lines": ["Prepare for him a dwelling of his due,", "And honor him as honor should accrue."]}, {"id": "B9.29.35", "lines": ["Give him a daughter of your royal line,", "With royal honor let his station shine."]}, {"id": "B9.29.36", "lines": ["If here he stays, beside your royal seat,", "He may make Turan’s land his own retreat."]}, {"id": "B9.29.37", "lines": ["And if he later turns to Kavus’s side,", "The good you did will still with you abide."]}, {"id": "B9.29.38", "lines": ["Then Kavus will give thanks for what was done,", "And great men bless your name beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B9.29.39", "lines": ["Through him the armies may from vengeance cease,", "If the Just Creator brings him here in peace."]}, {"id": "B9.29.40", "lines": ["This matches justice from the Maker’s hand,", "And sets the course of time and world to stand.”"]}, {"id": "B9.29.41", "lines": ["The monarch heard Piran and understood", "What might arise from counsel wise and good."]}, {"id": "B9.29.42", "lines": ["Then for a while he weighed it in his mind,", "What good or evil lay concealed behind."]}, {"id": "B9.29.43", "lines": ["He said, “Piran, your counsel pleases me;", "In all your words I hear what ought to be."]}, {"id": "B9.29.44", "lines": ["Among the tested counselors I know,", "No man can match the wisdom that you show."]}, {"id": "B9.29.45", "lines": ["Yet I have heard an ancient proverb told:", "‘Take in a lion’s cub within your fold;"]}, {"id": "B9.29.46", "lines": ["Though tenderly you rear it from its birth,", "And cherish it above all things of worth,"]}, {"id": "B9.29.47", "lines": ["When teeth and claws have grown, beware its might;", "The beast you raised may turn on you and bite.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.29.48", "lines": ["Piran replied, “Let wisdom guide the throne;", "Judge men by what their hearts and deeds have shown."]}, {"id": "B9.29.49", "lines": ["If Siavash bears no trace of Kavus’s ways,", "Why blame the son for what the father displays?"]}, {"id": "B9.29.50", "lines": ["Kay Kavus now is old; his time draws near.", "Then Siavash will rule without a peer."]}, {"id": "B9.29.51", "lines": ["The world and wealth, the palace and the crown,", "Will all be his when Kavus lays them down."]}, {"id": "B9.29.52", "lines": ["Thus both great realms, their crown and throne, may fall", "To you; a fortune greater than them all.”"]}, {"id": "B9.30.1", "lines": ["Afrasiab weighed all the counsel given,", "And shaped a prudent course, by wisdom driven."]}, {"id": "B9.30.2", "lines": ["He called a scribe experienced in his art,", "And spoke to him at length from mind and heart."]}, {"id": "B9.30.3", "lines": ["The scribe took up his pen with firm intent,", "And touched its sharpened point with amber scent."]}, {"id": "B9.30.4", "lines": ["He first inscribed the World-Creator’s praise,", "His greatness and His wisdom through all days."]}, {"id": "B9.30.5", "lines": ["“Beyond all bounds of place and passing time,", "No mortal thought can reach His height sublime."]}, {"id": "B9.30.6", "lines": ["He is Yazdan of reason and the soul,", "Who gives the wise their wisdom, clear and whole."]}, {"id": "B9.30.7", "lines": ["May blessings light upon the prince renowned,", "Whose sword and gorz and helm with fame are crowned."]}, {"id": "B9.30.8", "lines": ["The lord of modesty and justice true,", "Whose heart rejects all crookedness from view."]}, {"id": "B9.30.9", "lines": ["From Zangeh I have heard your whole intent,", "And every word your faithful envoy sent."]}, {"id": "B9.30.10", "lines": ["My heart is grieved that Kavus now should turn", "So dark against the son for whom I yearn."]}, {"id": "B9.30.11", "lines": ["What do the wise seek when their fortune grows,", "Except the crown and throne that fortune shows?"]}, {"id": "B9.30.12", "lines": ["For you both crown and royal realm await,", "With treasure, power, and honors of the state."]}, {"id": "B9.30.13", "lines": ["All Turan bows before your honored name,", "And I myself your love and friendship claim."]}, {"id": "B9.30.14", "lines": ["Between us let a bond of love be sealed,", "As son to father, faith and trust revealed."]}, {"id": "B9.30.15", "lines": ["Know this: your father never showed to you", "The love I bear, nor friendship firm and true."]}, {"id": "B9.30.16", "lines": ["My door, my treasury, my hand are free;", "Crown, throne, and royal seat I now decree."]}, {"id": "B9.30.17", "lines": ["I will cherish you as son, dear to me,", "My living memorial for all to see."]}, {"id": "B9.30.18", "lines": ["Remain with me, your future well preserved,", "Else blame from high and low will be deserved."]}, {"id": "B9.30.19", "lines": ["If you should go, the road is hard to tread,", "Unless by Yazdan’s farr your steps are led."]}, {"id": "B9.30.20", "lines": ["Beyond, no land appears along the way;", "The Sea of Chin must bear you many a day."]}, {"id": "B9.30.21", "lines": ["Yazdan has spared you from this toil and pain;", "Then stay with me, in peace and ease remain."]}, {"id": "B9.30.22", "lines": ["My army, fortress, treasures all are yours;", "Seek no excuse to leave for distant shores."]}, {"id": "B9.30.23", "lines": ["If you would seek your father’s grace of old,", "I will grant treasure and a belt of gold."]}, {"id": "B9.30.24", "lines": ["With troops beside you I myself will ride,", "And out of care remain close by your side."]}, {"id": "B9.30.25", "lines": ["This strife with Kay Kavus cannot long remain;", "Old age will cool the fire that feeds his strain."]}, {"id": "B9.30.26", "lines": ["When sixty-five full years have passed him by,", "Age sends its wind, and youthful fires must die."]}, {"id": "B9.30.27", "lines": ["Iran, its army, treasure, crown, and reign,", "Shall all in time become your own domain."]}, {"id": "B9.30.28", "lines": ["And more: by pure Yazdan I here have sworn", "To seek your good while life in me is borne."]}, {"id": "B9.30.29", "lines": ["No evil will I order, think, or do;", "My oath is whole and firm in all to you.”"]}, {"id": "B9.30.30", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, called good Zangeh near,", "And charged him with the message, plain and clear."]}, {"id": "B9.30.31", "lines": ["He readied robes of honor, silver, gold,", "And gifts in such abundance none could hold."]}, {"id": "B9.30.32", "lines": ["He gave a steed with golden trappings bright;", "Then Zangeh sped away with all his might."]}, {"id": "B9.30.33", "lines": ["When Zangeh reached the prince, he told him all,", "What he had asked and heard within the hall."]}, {"id": "B9.30.34", "lines": ["Then Siavash was glad, yet grief drew near;", "One side found joy, the other pain and fear."]}, {"id": "B9.30.35", "lines": ["He made a friend from one who was his foe;", "But when from fire can cooling breezes blow?"]}, {"id": "B9.30.36", "lines": ["No matter how much kindness you bestow,", "In time his hidden hatred still will show."]}, {"id": "B9.31.1", "lines": ["Then Siavash wrote to Kavus his liege,", "To tell the grief that held his heart in siege:"]}, {"id": "B9.31.2", "lines": ["“Though I am young, I am not poor in mind,", "Nor act as heedless of the ends I find."]}, {"id": "B9.31.3", "lines": ["I have done no wrong, yet still the Shah’s fierce ire", "Has burned my heart like some relentless fire."]}, {"id": "B9.31.4", "lines": ["Your shabestan first brought me all my grief;", "My face I washed in heart’s blood, past relief."]}, {"id": "B9.31.5", "lines": ["I crossed the mountain fire through scorching flame,", "And deer upon the plain wept at my shame."]}, {"id": "B9.31.6", "lines": ["From shame I went to war through pain and dread,", "And walked where jaws of nahang yawned ahead."]}, {"id": "B9.31.7", "lines": ["Now both the realms enjoy a time of peace,", "Yet still the Shah’s harsh temper will not cease."]}, {"id": "B9.31.8", "lines": ["His heart is like a sword of tempered steel;", "Whether I bind or loose, no change I feel."]}, {"id": "B9.31.9", "lines": ["Since he is weary of me, I depart,", "And cease to burden his embittered heart."]}, {"id": "B9.31.10", "lines": ["May joy surround him under heaven’s law,", "While grief has driven me through dragon’s jaw."]}, {"id": "B9.31.11", "lines": ["I do not know what turning heaven brings,", "If hate or favor waits beneath its wings.”"]}, {"id": "B9.31.12", "lines": ["Then turning, thus to Bahram he replied:", "“Win fresh renown upon the path you ride."]}, {"id": "B9.31.13", "lines": ["To you I leave the crown and royal tent,", "The throne and treasure, full, with nothing spent."]}, {"id": "B9.31.14", "lines": ["Guard standards, riders, elephants and gear,", "And keep the koust till Tus himself draws near."]}, {"id": "B9.31.15", "lines": ["And when Tus comes, consign him every store;", "Stay watchful-hearted, faithful as before.”"]}, {"id": "B9.31.16", "lines": ["He chose three hundred warriors, tried and true,", "All proven riders, fit for battle too."]}, {"id": "B9.31.17", "lines": ["He took sufficient wealth to see him through,", "With dinars and with royal jewels in view."]}, {"id": "B9.31.18", "lines": ["A hundred chosen horses, gold-arrayed,", "A hundred servants in gold belts displayed."]}, {"id": "B9.31.19", "lines": ["He counted weapons, harness, belts, and gear,", "And had them all brought forward, plain and clear."]}, {"id": "B9.31.20", "lines": ["Then summoned all the nobles to his side,", "And spoke with calm authority and pride:"]}, {"id": "B9.31.21", "lines": ["“Piran has crossed the river; he is sent", "By Afrasiab, with plain and clear intent."]}, {"id": "B9.31.22", "lines": ["He bears a secret message meant for me,", "And brings the word that I must hear and see."]}, {"id": "B9.31.23", "lines": ["I go to meet him; here you must abide,", "While I ride forth to greet him at his side."]}, {"id": "B9.31.24", "lines": ["To Bahram turn, and heed what he may say;", "Let none among you turn his heart away.”"]}, {"id": "B9.31.25", "lines": ["The chiefs, each one, bowed low and kissed the ground", "Before the prince, whose grief burned deep, profound."]}, {"id": "B9.31.26", "lines": ["The sun showed him its back; the air grew dim,", "The earth turned harsh as sorrow weighed on him."]}, {"id": "B9.31.27", "lines": ["He could not hide the tears that filled his eyes,", "As toward the Jihun he led his ranks with sighs."]}, {"id": "B9.31.28", "lines": ["When he reached Tarmez, all the streets were bright,", "With scent and color gleaming in the light."]}, {"id": "B9.31.29", "lines": ["From there to Chakh each city, bride-arrayed,", "Wore torc and crown in splendor all displayed."]}, {"id": "B9.31.30", "lines": ["At every halt rich carpets lined the ground,", "With feast and celebration all around."]}, {"id": "B9.31.31", "lines": ["So on they came to Kachar Bashi’s bound,", "Where he dismounted, and repose he found."]}, {"id": "B9.31.32", "lines": ["When Tus reached Balkh, they met him with the word,", "And told him bitter news of what occurred."]}, {"id": "B9.31.33", "lines": ["“The favored son of Kay Kavus,” they said,", "“Has joined the chief by whom Turan is led.”"]}, {"id": "B9.31.34", "lines": ["He gathered troops and turned his army back,", "Returning to the court along the track."]}, {"id": "B9.31.35", "lines": ["The news made Kavus pale with inward grief,", "He groaned and sighed but found in none relief."]}, {"id": "B9.31.36", "lines": ["His heart was fire; tears gathered in his eyes,", "At Siavash and Afrasiab’s ties."]}, {"id": "B9.31.37", "lines": ["He doubted if his fate were friend or foe,", "And wondered what the turning heavens would show."]}, {"id": "B9.31.38", "lines": ["He set aside all thoughts of war and hate,", "And spoke no more of battle from that date."]}, {"id": "B9.31.39", "lines": ["When word arrived Siavash had crossed the flow,", "Afrasiab made ready men to go."]}, {"id": "B9.31.40", "lines": ["“Bring down the army to this frontier now!”", "His envoy reached the court and made his bow."]}, {"id": "B9.31.41", "lines": ["He called the nobles and the chiefs to fare,", "With tabira resounding through the air."]}, {"id": "B9.31.42", "lines": ["Then Piran chose a thousand of his kin,", "To greet the prince with gifts, then lead him in."]}, {"id": "B9.31.43", "lines": ["He readied all the army for the sight,", "And brought four mighty elephants in white."]}, {"id": "B9.31.44", "lines": ["On one they set a turquoise throne on high,", "A shining tree-like banner reached the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.31.45", "lines": ["A golden moon adorned its lofty crest,", "Upon a purple cloth with gold-thread dressed."]}, {"id": "B9.31.46", "lines": ["Three other elephants bore thrones of gold,", "In rich diba from head to foot enrolled."]}, {"id": "B9.31.47", "lines": ["A hundred steeds with golden saddles shone,", "With many-colored jewels thickly sewn."]}, {"id": "B9.31.48", "lines": ["The army seemed as heaven had drawn near,", "And clothed the face of earth in splendor clear."]}, {"id": "B9.31.49", "lines": ["When Siavash heard the welcoming array,", "He formed his ranks and hastened forth that way."]}, {"id": "B9.31.50", "lines": ["He saw Piran’s banner rise on high,", "And heard the elephants and horses cry."]}, {"id": "B9.31.51", "lines": ["He hurried forth and clasped Piran breast to breast,", "And asked of king and realm, and all the rest."]}, {"id": "B9.31.52", "lines": ["“Why have you worn your spirit on the road?", "Why bear for me so difficult a load?"]}, {"id": "B9.31.53", "lines": ["My first desire was your dear self to see,", "And find you safe; that mattered first to me.”"]}, {"id": "B9.31.54", "lines": ["Then Piran kissed his head, his feet, his face,", "And welcomed him with reverence and grace."]}, {"id": "B9.31.55", "lines": ["Then to the Judge of hidden things and known,", "He raised his grateful voice in reverent tone:"]}, {"id": "B9.31.56", "lines": ["“Had I but dreamed of you while yet I slept,", "My aged head to youth again had leapt."]}, {"id": "B9.31.57", "lines": ["Now that I see you strong and standing well,", "I praise Yazdan whose mercies none can tell."]}, {"id": "B9.31.58", "lines": ["Afrasiab will be your father now,", "And all this riverside before you bow."]}, {"id": "B9.31.59", "lines": ["More than a thousand of my kin stand near,", "Attendants ready for your service here."]}, {"id": "B9.31.60", "lines": ["And all my wealth and treasure you command,", "May joy and health forever with you stand."]}, {"id": "B9.31.61", "lines": ["Speak no desire you fear may be denied;", "Both men and women serve you at my side."]}, {"id": "B9.31.62", "lines": ["Though gray my head, for you my belt I bind,", "And gladly serve with loyal heart and mind.”"]}, {"id": "B9.31.63", "lines": ["They rode together, grief at last allayed,", "And spoke of every matter that they weighed."]}, {"id": "B9.31.64", "lines": ["The chang and rabab filled the streets with song,", "And woke the sleeping as the notes rolled long."]}, {"id": "B9.31.65", "lines": ["The ground was dark with musk along the way,", "Arabian horses seemed to wing away."]}, {"id": "B9.31.66", "lines": ["But when the prince beheld this splendid show,", "His tears like sudden rain began to flow."]}, {"id": "B9.31.67", "lines": ["He thought of Zabul and its festive throng,", "And feasts to Kabul stretched the road along."]}, {"id": "B9.31.68", "lines": ["Again he saw the nobles’ bright array,", "With Rostam, Piltan, leading the display;"]}, {"id": "B9.31.69", "lines": ["He thought of Iran with a mournful sigh,", "While homesick longing dimmed his watchful eye."]}, {"id": "B9.31.70", "lines": ["He saw again the gems cast from above,", "With musk and ambergris, and signs of love."]}, {"id": "B9.31.71", "lines": ["His heart recalled them, burning as before,", "Like fire that leapt within him at the core."]}, {"id": "B9.31.72", "lines": ["He turned away to hide his inward pain,", "Yet Piran saw the grief he strove to rein."]}, {"id": "B9.31.73", "lines": ["He knew what memory had brought this grief,", "And bit his lip, himself denied relief."]}, {"id": "B9.31.74", "lines": ["They halted then a while beside the way,", "And drew their breath before they rode away."]}, {"id": "B9.31.75", "lines": ["Piran observed his face, his shoulders, frame,", "His stature and his speech of noble fame."]}, {"id": "B9.31.76", "lines": ["He watched the prince and marveled at the sight,", "And named Yazdan again with fresh delight."]}, {"id": "B9.31.77", "lines": ["“O prince, among the kings your name shall stand,", "A living memory through every land."]}, {"id": "B9.31.78", "lines": ["O prince, in you three noble gifts combine,", "No other ruler bears such marks divine:"]}, {"id": "B9.31.79", "lines": ["First, from Kay Qobad runs your royal line,", "His ancient glory through your blood may shine."]}, {"id": "B9.31.80", "lines": ["Next, truth adorns the language that you speak,", "Your words are upright, gracious, never weak."]}, {"id": "B9.31.81", "lines": ["And from your face such gentle favor flows,", "That love itself from every feature grows.”"]}, {"id": "B9.31.82", "lines": ["The prince replied: “O elder, pure and true,", "Your heart is wise, your speech is faithful too."]}, {"id": "B9.31.83", "lines": ["Renowned for love and loyalty your name,", "Far from Ahriman, cruelty, and blame."]}, {"id": "B9.31.84", "lines": ["If you will bind your covenant with mine,", "I know your word will never cross the line."]}, {"id": "B9.31.85", "lines": ["Then here I stay till all my grief is done,", "And make this land my rest beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B9.31.86", "lines": ["If fortune smiles, I shall not grieve or mourn", "For all the roads by which my steps were borne;"]}, {"id": "B9.31.87", "lines": ["If not, then let me pass without delay,", "And show another country on my way.”"]}, {"id": "B9.31.88", "lines": ["Then Piran said: “Put such thoughts from your mind,", "You have left Iran and all its grief behind."]}, {"id": "B9.31.89", "lines": ["Turn not your heart from Afrasiab’s grace,", "Nor hurry now to leave this resting place."]}, {"id": "B9.31.90", "lines": ["Though Afrasiab bears a name of ill,", "In truth a godly heart is in him still."]}, {"id": "B9.31.91", "lines": ["He has good sense, sound judgment, wisdom’s light,", "And does not rush toward needless harm or fight."]}, {"id": "B9.31.92", "lines": ["He is my kinsman, joined to me by birth;", "I serve as champion and counselor of worth."]}, {"id": "B9.31.93", "lines": ["I stand in honor near his royal seat,", "With treasure, throne, and army at my feet."]}, {"id": "B9.31.94", "lines": ["More than a hundred thousand horse obey,", "And ride beneath the orders I convey."]}, {"id": "B9.31.95", "lines": ["And twelve thousand kinsmen of my line", "Will stand before me when I give the sign."]}, {"id": "B9.31.96", "lines": ["I own broad lands and flocks and horses grand,", "With treasure, and with bow and coiled kamand."]}, {"id": "B9.31.97", "lines": ["And hidden wealth beyond all this have I;", "I need no aid from any man nearby."]}, {"id": "B9.31.98", "lines": ["All this I give you freely, as is right,", "If here you choose to dwell with heart made light."]}, {"id": "B9.31.99", "lines": ["Pure Yazdan placed you in my charge and care;", "With heart and soul your service I will bear."]}, {"id": "B9.31.100", "lines": ["No harm shall touch you by my will or deed;", "Yet none can know what fate has yet decreed.”"]}, {"id": "B9.31.101", "lines": ["The prince rejoiced, his troubled heart grew light,", "And all his anxious thoughts withdrew from sight."]}, {"id": "B9.31.102", "lines": ["They sat and feasted, joined as sire and son,", "And shared the board together there as one."]}, {"id": "B9.31.103", "lines": ["With brighter hearts they hastened on the road,", "Till Gang received them in its fair abode."]}, {"id": "B9.32.1", "lines": ["When word was brought the prince was at the gate,", "Afrasiab went out, and did not wait."]}, {"id": "B9.32.2", "lines": ["On foot, his waist bound tight, he hastened near,", "To greet the prince with open-hearted cheer."]}, {"id": "B9.32.3", "lines": ["The prince dismounted when he saw the king,", "And hastened forth his greeting first to bring."]}, {"id": "B9.32.4", "lines": ["They clasped each other, kissed both eyes and head,", "And joy among the watching nobles spread."]}, {"id": "B9.32.5", "lines": ["Afrasiab said: “Now evil lies at rest,", "And peace has spread its calm through every breast."]}, {"id": "B9.32.6", "lines": ["No more shall battle fill the field with fear,", "Where sheep and leopard drink together near."]}, {"id": "B9.32.7", "lines": ["Brave Tur once cast the world in bitter strife,", "But now the age grows weary of that life."]}, {"id": "B9.32.8", "lines": ["The two great realms were torn by feud so long,", "Their hearts estranged from peace by wrath and wrong."]}, {"id": "B9.32.9", "lines": ["Through you the age from battle finds release,", "And boiling blood at last gives way to peace."]}, {"id": "B9.32.10", "lines": ["All Turan turns to you with loving heart;", "In soul and body I shall take your part."]}, {"id": "B9.32.11", "lines": ["My wealth, my life, all that I own is near,", "And as a father I shall hold you dear."]}, {"id": "B9.32.12", "lines": ["You shall find welcome always in my face,", "And fatherly affection fill this place.”"]}, {"id": "B9.32.13", "lines": ["Then Siavash replied with grateful heart:", "“May wealth from your household never depart."]}, {"id": "B9.32.14", "lines": ["Praise to the Maker, source of everything,", "From whom both peace and strife and vengeance spring.”"]}, {"id": "B9.32.15", "lines": ["The monarch took his hand and led the way,", "Then seated him beside him in array."]}, {"id": "B9.32.16", "lines": ["He gazed and said: “No equal walks the earth,", "No prince can match your dignity and worth."]}, {"id": "B9.32.17", "lines": ["Your face and stature bear a royal light,", "And farr itself has crowned you in my sight.”"]}, {"id": "B9.32.18", "lines": ["To Piran then he said: “Kavus grows old,", "And little wisdom does his judgment hold."]}, {"id": "B9.32.19", "lines": ["To cast away a son so strong and wise", "Must leave the wisest men in shocked surprise."]}, {"id": "B9.32.20", "lines": ["My eyes behold him still, and stand in awe,", "My heart is lost in all the grief I saw."]}, {"id": "B9.32.21", "lines": ["What father, blessed with such a noble son,", "Could turn his eyes away till all was done?”"]}, {"id": "B9.32.22", "lines": ["He chose a palace worthy of his stay,", "With cloth of gold spread out in rich display."]}, {"id": "B9.32.23", "lines": ["A golden throne on sculpted feet was shown,", "With buffalo-headed legs beneath the throne."]}, {"id": "B9.32.24", "lines": ["The halls were dressed in Chinese diba bright,", "With every furnishing prepared just right."]}, {"id": "B9.32.25", "lines": ["He ordered Siavash to dwell in peace,", "With every comfort, care, and full release."]}, {"id": "B9.32.26", "lines": ["When Siavash approached the towering hall,", "Its arch rose high toward Saturn over all."]}, {"id": "B9.32.27", "lines": ["He entered, took the throne, and sat in thought,", "With deep and anxious musings mainly fraught."]}, {"id": "B9.32.28", "lines": ["At last the royal table had been laid,", "And he was called to where the king had stayed."]}, {"id": "B9.32.29", "lines": ["They spoke at length, and gladness came to reign,", "Released a while from memory and pain."]}, {"id": "B9.32.30", "lines": ["Then wine was set, the rud began to play,", "And chiefs and singers drank the night away."]}, {"id": "B9.32.31", "lines": ["They drank until the world was veiled in haze,", "And wine weighed down their eyes and dimmed their gaze."]}, {"id": "B9.32.32", "lines": ["Siavash came back, glad with wine that night,", "And Iran faded briefly from his sight."]}, {"id": "B9.32.33", "lines": ["Afrasiab gave heart and soul outright,", "And sleep would not come near him till the light."]}, {"id": "B9.32.34", "lines": ["That very night he called the banqueters near,", "And gave commands that all were bound to hear."]}, {"id": "B9.32.35", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab said to Shideh: “Go,", "When from the mountain-head the sun shall show."]}, {"id": "B9.32.36", "lines": ["Go with my kinsmen and my heroes bold,", "The Pahlevans, the highest chiefs of old."]}, {"id": "B9.32.37", "lines": ["Take noble steeds with gold upon their gear,", "With servants bearing royal gifts draw near."]}, {"id": "B9.32.38", "lines": ["Go sober, wakeful, silent on your way,", "Together reach the prince’s hall by day.”"]}, {"id": "B9.32.39", "lines": ["Next day the warriors brought gifts of gold,", "And royal jewels splendid to behold."]}, {"id": "B9.32.40", "lines": ["They laid them for the prince, his royal share,", "While further gifts arrived both rich and rare."]}, {"id": "B9.32.41", "lines": ["Thus Siavash was honored day by day,", "Seven full days in welcome passed away."]}, {"id": "B9.33.1", "lines": ["One night the king to Siavash then said,", "“Prepare at dawn, when darkness first has fled."]}, {"id": "B9.33.2", "lines": ["With ball and chowgan to the field we go,", "And laugh awhile, and let our prowess show."]}, {"id": "B9.33.3", "lines": ["No man alive, they say, can match your play,", "Or meet your skill at polo on the day.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.4", "lines": ["Siavash replied: “May fortune guard your reign,", "And keep you safe from injury and pain."]}, {"id": "B9.33.5", "lines": ["All kings look up to you in every art,", "And seek the skill in which you stand apart."]}, {"id": "B9.33.6", "lines": ["My brightest day depends upon your will;", "From you I take alike both good and ill.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.7", "lines": ["Afrasiab said: “My son, be strong and bold,", "Victorious till the turning years grow old."]}, {"id": "B9.33.8", "lines": ["You are a Shah’s son, ornament of throne,", "The Kayan crown and army’s strength your own.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.9", "lines": ["At dawn they rode out laughing to the plain,", "And galloped freely, each with loosened rein."]}, {"id": "B9.33.10", "lines": ["The king then said: “Choose riders for your side,", "And let the ball reveal which skills abide."]}, {"id": "B9.33.11", "lines": ["You take that side; this side shall fall to mine,", "And split the gathered riders in a line.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.12", "lines": ["Siavash said: “How should I strive with you?", "I cannot stand against you, tried and true."]}, {"id": "B9.33.13", "lines": ["Choose others to contend with you; but I", "Will keep beside you as the hours go by."]}, {"id": "B9.33.14", "lines": ["Among your men I ride, a comrade tried;", "Across this field I stand and ride beside.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.15", "lines": ["The king was pleased and laughed to hear him speak,", "And judged all others’ boasts as hollow, weak."]}, {"id": "B9.33.16", "lines": ["He said: “By Kavus’s life and head this day,", "You shall contend with me in polo play."]}, {"id": "B9.33.17", "lines": ["Display your strength before the gathered band,", "So none may doubt the choice that I have planned."]}, {"id": "B9.33.18", "lines": ["Let all give praise; may joy bloom on my face.”", "Siavash replied: “Your word shall rule this place."]}, {"id": "B9.33.19", "lines": ["The field, the men, the game are yours to lead;", "Command, and I obey in word and deed.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.20", "lines": ["Afrasiab then chose his champions well:", "Kulbad and Pulad, horsemen known to excel."]}, {"id": "B9.33.21", "lines": ["With Piran, Jahan, Garsivaz the bold,", "With Nastihan and Houman fierce and cold."]}, {"id": "B9.33.22", "lines": ["Then to Siavash the king assigned his men:", "Brave Ruyin and Shideh rode with him then."]}, {"id": "B9.33.23", "lines": ["Andariman and Arjasp joined his side,", "Both lion-hearted, masters of the ride."]}, {"id": "B9.33.24", "lines": ["Siavash said: “Will any rider dare", "To face the ball against me anywhere?"]}, {"id": "B9.33.25", "lines": ["These all are yours, a company arrayed;", "Must I alone guard chowgan, without aid?"]}, {"id": "B9.33.26", "lines": ["Permit me then to call men of my own,", "Iranian riders skilled and widely known."]}, {"id": "B9.33.27", "lines": ["They shall be mine in polo’s ordered play,", "As side meets side according to its way.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.28", "lines": ["The king agreed and granted his request,", "And gave consent to choose whom he thought best."]}, {"id": "B9.33.29", "lines": ["Siavash chose seven, hand-picked and blessed,", "All proven riders fit for such a test."]}, {"id": "B9.33.30", "lines": ["Tabira thundered; dust rose through the air,", "And shouts of riders echoed everywhere."]}, {"id": "B9.33.31", "lines": ["The sanj and ney rang out with brazen sound,", "Till all the field seemed moving on the ground."]}, {"id": "B9.33.32", "lines": ["Afrasiab struck first and sent the ball", "So high it seemed to scale the sky’s vast wall."]}, {"id": "B9.33.33", "lines": ["Siavash spurred his steed and, swift and light,", "Struck it aloft before it could alight."]}, {"id": "B9.33.34", "lines": ["He struck it hard; it soared beyond their view,", "And none could trace the path on which it flew."]}, {"id": "B9.33.35", "lines": ["The king commanded: “Bring another ball,”", "And had it set before the prince and all."]}, {"id": "B9.33.36", "lines": ["He raised and kissed the ball before the crowd,", "The ney and koust together sounded loud."]}, {"id": "B9.33.37", "lines": ["He mounted then a fresh and eager steed,", "And tossed the ball in hand with practiced heed."]}, {"id": "B9.33.38", "lines": ["Then with his chowgan struck it toward the moon,", "As though the sky would claim the ball too soon."]}, {"id": "B9.33.39", "lines": ["The ball itself then vanished from their sight,", "As though the heavens drew it toward their height."]}, {"id": "B9.33.40", "lines": ["No rider there could match him in the race,", "Nor any shine with such a joyful face."]}, {"id": "B9.33.41", "lines": ["The king laughed loud, the nobles cried in praise,", "And marveled at the prince before their gaze."]}, {"id": "B9.33.42", "lines": ["They cried: “No horseman like him have we known!", "No rider with such mastery has shown!”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.43", "lines": ["Afrasiab said: “Such prowess marks the one", "On whom divine farr shines beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B9.33.44", "lines": ["His beauty, farr, and skill make one thing clear:", "To see him far surpasses what we hear.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.45", "lines": ["A throne was set beside the playing green;", "The king sat down while all stood watching keen."]}, {"id": "B9.33.46", "lines": ["Siavash sat beside him on the throne,", "And joy upon the king’s bright face was shown."]}, {"id": "B9.33.47", "lines": ["He said: “The field is open, all is free;", "Now play, and show your prowess, all to see.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.48", "lines": ["The men of Iran and Turan now engaged,", "And all the plain with eager contest raged."]}, {"id": "B9.33.49", "lines": ["From side to side the ball was seized and won,", "Each took from each before the play was done."]}, {"id": "B9.33.50", "lines": ["But when the Turks pressed on with growing heat,", "And strove too hard to see Iran’s defeat,"]}, {"id": "B9.33.51", "lines": ["The Iranians seized the ball before their eyes,", "And left the Turks confounded with surprise."]}, {"id": "B9.33.52", "lines": ["Siavash frowned, and to his men he turned,", "And spoke Pahlevani, while purpose burned:"]}, {"id": "B9.33.53", "lines": ["“Is this a game, or do you seek for war,", "While we stand here and press the contest sore?"]}, {"id": "B9.33.54", "lines": ["When near the goal, then let the ball go by,", "And give the Turks their chance to score thereby.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.55", "lines": ["His riders eased, and slower now they pressed,", "And drew their horses back, and gave them rest."]}, {"id": "B9.33.56", "lines": ["The Turks seized back the ball and rode like fire;", "Afrasiab saw what checked Iranian ire."]}, {"id": "B9.33.57", "lines": ["He said: “A truthful man once told me so:", "The prince has arts no other man can show."]}, {"id": "B9.33.58", "lines": ["With bow and arrow none can match his art,", "When shoulders open and the shafts depart.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.59", "lines": ["The prince then took his Kayan bow, and raised", "It from its case before them as they gazed."]}, {"id": "B9.33.60", "lines": ["The king then asked to see the mighty bow,", "And had a servant bring it forth to show."]}, {"id": "B9.33.61", "lines": ["He took it, marveled at its strength and size,", "And praised the bow before the watching eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.33.62", "lines": ["He gave it then to Garsivaz: “Now try,", "And bend and string this bow before my eye.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.63", "lines": ["But all in vain; his utmost could not bring", "That stubborn bow to bend, or brace the string."]}, {"id": "B9.33.64", "lines": ["Siavash took it, bent it with his hand,", "And strung it smoothly, smiling where he scanned."]}, {"id": "B9.33.65", "lines": ["The king declared: “Such bows demand the might", "Of youthful arms to bend and string them right."]}, {"id": "B9.33.66", "lines": ["In youth I too had strength; my arm was bold,", "But age has stolen it; I have grown old."]}, {"id": "B9.33.67", "lines": ["No man in Iran or Turan, in war’s days,", "Could wield this bow and win such lasting praise."]}, {"id": "B9.33.68", "lines": ["Save him whose chest and shoulders bear such might;", "No other arm could bend and string it tight.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.69", "lines": ["A target then was planted on the plain;", "Siavash mounted, gathering the rein."]}, {"id": "B9.33.70", "lines": ["He pressed his thighs and drove his charger fast,", "Then drew and loosed a shaft as he rode past."]}, {"id": "B9.33.71", "lines": ["It struck the center, full before their gaze;", "Then he a four-feathered shaft did raise."]}, {"id": "B9.33.72", "lines": ["Again he drew and loosed with steady aim,", "And struck the very center, to acclaim."]}, {"id": "B9.33.73", "lines": ["The target, twice transfixed in one swift ride,", "Was pierced like some fine sieve from side to side."]}, {"id": "B9.33.74", "lines": ["He turned his rein and toward the right he tore,", "And struck again the mark he struck before."]}, {"id": "B9.33.75", "lines": ["The bow slung on his arm, he set his pace,", "And rode back toward the monarch’s watching place."]}, {"id": "B9.33.76", "lines": ["Siavash dismounted; Afrasiab said:", "“Your lineage shines in every shaft you sped.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.77", "lines": ["From there they rode toward the palace high,", "With joyful hearts beneath the evening sky."]}, {"id": "B9.33.78", "lines": ["They sat, called wine, and summoned song and art,", "And brought in tuneful minstrels to take part."]}, {"id": "B9.33.79", "lines": ["They drank and gave the prince their glad applause,", "And drank to Siavash with joyful cause."]}, {"id": "B9.33.80", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab gave gifts manifold:", "A steed, its trappings, throne, and crown of gold."]}, {"id": "B9.33.81", "lines": ["With cloth so rare no eye had seen its kind,", "A robe of finest workmanship designed."]}, {"id": "B9.33.82", "lines": ["With dinars, bags of silver, jewels stored,", "With rubies and turquoise and golden hoard."]}, {"id": "B9.33.83", "lines": ["With servants, slaves, and one resplendent cup,", "With glowing rubies filled completely up."]}, {"id": "B9.33.84", "lines": ["Afrasiab ordered all the gifts arrayed,", "Counted in full, then to the prince conveyed."]}, {"id": "B9.33.85", "lines": ["Throughout Turan affection for him grew,", "And every loyal heart to him turned true."]}, {"id": "B9.33.86", "lines": ["He ordered each to bring his wealth in view,", "And spread the tables when the gifts were through."]}, {"id": "B9.33.87", "lines": ["He said: “In all things hold him as your lord,", "And let your service be his due reward.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.88", "lines": ["Afrasiab said: “Come hunt with me one day,", "And drive all grief and troubled thoughts away.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.89", "lines": ["Siavash said: “Whenever you would ride,", "I follow where you lead and stand beside.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.90", "lines": ["One day they rode; the king brought hawks to fly,", "While hunting cheetahs bounded swiftly by."]}, {"id": "B9.33.91", "lines": ["From Iran and from Turan riders came,", "And all assembled, eager for the game."]}, {"id": "B9.33.92", "lines": ["The prince saw Gur-e-Khar upon the plain,", "And darted forth, and gave his steed the rein."]}, {"id": "B9.33.93", "lines": ["His rein grew light, his stirrup pressed with weight,", "Through hill and hollow flew his charging gait."]}, {"id": "B9.33.94", "lines": ["He struck a Gur-e-Khar and clove it clean,", "His flashing blade cut through with edge so keen."]}, {"id": "B9.33.95", "lines": ["He judged the halves and found their balance true,", "Not one grain’s weight could part the equal two."]}, {"id": "B9.33.96", "lines": ["The king and all his train looked on amazed,", "And praised the strength and skill the prince displayed."]}, {"id": "B9.33.97", "lines": ["They cried: “What master stands before our eyes!”", "And gazed in silent wonder and surprise."]}, {"id": "B9.33.98", "lines": ["They said: “From Iran trouble comes today;", "This prince may bring us grief along the way."]}, {"id": "B9.33.99", "lines": ["Our chiefs are pressed, their names are brought down low;", "Perhaps against the Shah to war we go.”"]}, {"id": "B9.33.100", "lines": ["Through cave and mountain, over plain he sped,", "With sword and spear and arrow game lay dead."]}, {"id": "B9.33.101", "lines": ["At every place he raised a mound of prey,", "And left the army fed along the way."]}, {"id": "B9.33.102", "lines": ["Then back they rode toward Afrasiab’s hall,", "With hearts made light and gladness shared by all."]}, {"id": "B9.33.103", "lines": ["The king in grief or pleasure turned to none,", "But Siavash alone, his chosen one."]}, {"id": "B9.33.104", "lines": ["To Jahan or Garsivaz he spoke no thought,", "Nor shared the hidden counsel that he sought."]}, {"id": "B9.33.105", "lines": ["With Siavash alone he found delight;", "His lips would open into laughter bright."]}, {"id": "B9.34.1", "lines": ["One day with Piran Siavash sat apart,", "They spoke of many things with open heart."]}, {"id": "B9.34.2", "lines": ["Then Piran said: “What man surpasses you?", "Who stands above you in the deeds you do?"]}, {"id": "B9.34.3", "lines": ["Awake, the king speaks of you with delight;", "Even in sleep he names you through the night."]}, {"id": "B9.34.4", "lines": ["You are to him as spring is to the plain,", "His balm in grief, his ease from every pain."]}, {"id": "B9.34.5", "lines": ["You are Kavus’s son, renowned and wise;", "Your virtues lift your stature to the skies."]}, {"id": "B9.34.6", "lines": ["Though age now bends your father, worn and gray,", "Take heed the Kayan crown not pass away."]}, {"id": "B9.34.7", "lines": ["In Iran and Turan you stand as Shah,", "A living heir to kings of ancient law."]}, {"id": "B9.34.8", "lines": ["Yet here you have no kinsman of your own,", "No blood to stand beside you, sworn and known."]}, {"id": "B9.34.9", "lines": ["In all of Turan none is fit to claim", "A place beside you worthy of your name."]}, {"id": "B9.34.10", "lines": ["No brother, sister, wife stands at your side;", "Alone you grow, a rose-branch in its pride."]}, {"id": "B9.34.11", "lines": ["Then seek a bride to grace your royal state,", "And lay aside your grief for Iran’s fate."]}, {"id": "B9.34.12", "lines": ["When Kavus dies, then Iran shall be yours,", "With crown and throne that royal blood secures."]}, {"id": "B9.34.13", "lines": ["Behind the veil are three like moons in light,", "Three maidens hidden from the stranger’s sight."]}, {"id": "B9.34.14", "lines": ["So fair that if the moon itself drew near,", "It could not turn its gaze from beauties here."]}, {"id": "B9.34.15", "lines": ["Three daughters dwell in Garsivaz’s hall,", "Well reared by father, mother, one and all."]}, {"id": "B9.34.16", "lines": ["From Fereydoon their ancient lineage flows,", "And royal grace in every daughter shows."]}, {"id": "B9.34.17", "lines": ["I too have daughters four, whom I commend;", "If you accept, as servants they attend."]}, {"id": "B9.34.18", "lines": ["Yet Jarireh, my eldest, leads them all;", "No beauty can compare within the hall."]}, {"id": "B9.34.19", "lines": ["If she should please you, she is yours to choose,", "Your servant, if her hand you not refuse.”"]}, {"id": "B9.34.20", "lines": ["Siavash said: “I thank you for this grace;", "Regard me as your son within this place."]}, {"id": "B9.34.21", "lines": ["Jarireh pleases me past all the rest;", "No kinship dearer lies within my breast."]}, {"id": "B9.34.22", "lines": ["She brings delight alike to flesh and soul;", "No other woman here can make me whole."]}, {"id": "B9.34.23", "lines": ["In this you lay on me a lasting debt,", "A bond I bear and never shall forget.”"]}, {"id": "B9.34.24", "lines": ["When Piran left, he hurried from the hall,", "And told Golshahr what soon would them befall."]}, {"id": "B9.34.25", "lines": ["He said: “Prepare Jarireh for the day,", "For Siavash and his farr without delay."]}, {"id": "B9.34.26", "lines": ["Shall we not celebrate this noble tie,", "And knit our house to Qobad’s line thereby?”"]}, {"id": "B9.34.27", "lines": ["Golshahr then brought her daughter forward dressed,", "A coronet of gold adorned her crest."]}, {"id": "B9.34.28", "lines": ["With diba, dinars, silver, fragrant gold,", "And costly ornaments of finest mold."]}, {"id": "B9.34.29", "lines": ["She shone as springtime shines in fullest flower,", "And they brought her before the prince that hour."]}, {"id": "B9.34.30", "lines": ["They joined her to the prince with honor due,", "And led her to her royal station new."]}, {"id": "B9.34.31", "lines": ["None could recount the wealth that with her came;", "A golden jeweled throne enhanced her fame."]}, {"id": "B9.34.32", "lines": ["When Siavash beheld her beauty rare,", "He smiled with joy, and gladness ended care."]}, {"id": "B9.34.33", "lines": ["His every hour was filled with glad delight,", "And Kavus faded wholly from his sight."]}, {"id": "B9.34.34", "lines": ["Thus heaven turned, and time went flowing on;", "Good fortune stayed with him from dusk to dawn."]}, {"id": "B9.34.35", "lines": ["His rank and splendor rose before the king,", "And day by day increased in everything."]}, {"id": "B9.35.1", "lines": ["One day Piran addressed the prince apart,", "And spoke as one both righteous, wise of heart."]}, {"id": "B9.35.2", "lines": ["“Afrasiab commands Turan’s great powers;", "His crown above the peak of heaven towers."]}, {"id": "B9.35.3", "lines": ["You are, at every hour, his brightened soul,", "His heart, his wisdom, strength, and power whole."]}, {"id": "B9.35.4", "lines": ["If marriage bound you to his royal line,", "Your power would grow, your fortune brighter shine."]}, {"id": "B9.35.5", "lines": ["Though now my daughter stands as your new wife,", "Your every care is also mine in life."]}, {"id": "B9.35.6", "lines": ["Though Jarireh is fair and pleased you well,", "And though you chose her, and with her would dwell,"]}, {"id": "B9.35.7", "lines": ["It better fits your station and your worth", "To seek a jewel of the Shah’s own birth."]}, {"id": "B9.35.8", "lines": ["Among his daughters, Farangis is best,", "No fairer form was ever seen or guessed."]}, {"id": "B9.35.9", "lines": ["Her form outshines the cypress, tall and fair,", "Black musk itself forms a crown upon her hair."]}, {"id": "B9.35.10", "lines": ["Her skill and wisdom pass all measured worth,", "And wisdom waits upon her here on earth."]}, {"id": "B9.35.11", "lines": ["Ask Afrasiab; nowhere shall you find", "In Kashmir or Kabul a face so kind."]}, {"id": "B9.35.12", "lines": ["The king himself will join your royal line,", "And farr and orung brighter still shall shine."]}, {"id": "B9.35.13", "lines": ["With your consent, I will approach the throne,", "And seek his favor, make the matter known.”"]}, {"id": "B9.35.14", "lines": ["Siavash said, “What Yazdan has decreed,", "No mortal hand can change the sphere’s fixed speed."]}, {"id": "B9.35.15", "lines": ["If I may never reach Iran once more,", "Nor see Kavus, my father, as before,"]}, {"id": "B9.35.16", "lines": ["Or Zal, my guardian, steadfast, kind, and true,", "Or Rostam, source of all the joy I knew,"]}, {"id": "B9.35.17", "lines": ["Or Bahram and Zangeh, Shavaran’s pride,", "Or Giv and Shapur, comrades at my side,"]}, {"id": "B9.35.18", "lines": ["If I must live apart from home and kin,", "And here in Turan a new life begin,"]}, {"id": "B9.35.19", "lines": ["Then be my father, and this bond prepare,", "But keep it secret; let no tongue declare.”"]}, {"id": "B9.35.20", "lines": ["He spoke, and from his lashes tears would pour;", "A cold sigh left him as his heart grew sore."]}, {"id": "B9.35.21", "lines": ["Piran replied: “The wise adjust their way", "To suit the times in which they live each day."]}, {"id": "B9.35.22", "lines": ["None can escape the turning of the sphere,", "For peace and strife and love alike appear."]}, {"id": "B9.35.23", "lines": ["If friends in Iran still remain with you,", "Entrust them all to Yazdan, firm and true."]}, {"id": "B9.35.24", "lines": ["Your dwelling now is here in Turan’s land,", "Yet Iran’s throne remains within your hand.”"]}, {"id": "B9.36.1", "lines": ["When Piran learned the prince’s heart and mind,", "He rose and sought the king, his task defined."]}, {"id": "B9.36.2", "lines": ["In cheerful mood he reached the royal gate,", "Dismounted there, then entered without wait."]}, {"id": "B9.36.3", "lines": ["Before the throne he stood in silence near,", "Till Afrasiab said, “What brings you here?"]}, {"id": "B9.36.4", "lines": ["Why stand so long before me, still and grave?", "Speak now; what gift or favor do you crave?"]}, {"id": "B9.36.5", "lines": ["My army, wealth, and treasure serve your need;", "Ask what you wish; your word shall be my deed."]}, {"id": "B9.36.6", "lines": ["Were one in bonds whom I would never free,", "For your sake only, he should pardoned be."]}, {"id": "B9.36.7", "lines": ["My wrath and quarrel I would cast away,", "And loose the man for you without delay."]}, {"id": "B9.36.8", "lines": ["Ask what you will, whatever boon is known:", "My sword, my seal, my crown, my royal throne.”"]}, {"id": "B9.36.9", "lines": ["Piran replied: “May all the earth acclaim", "Your lasting honor and exalted fame."]}, {"id": "B9.36.10", "lines": ["Through your good fortune all my stores abound,", "With crown, sword, army, treasure gathered round."]}, {"id": "B9.36.11", "lines": ["I come with words for private hearing here,", "A long petition for the prince most dear."]}, {"id": "B9.36.12", "lines": ["He charged me speak these words before your face:", "‘My heart is glad; my name has won your grace."]}, {"id": "B9.36.13", "lines": ["You raised me as a father rears his son,", "And through your love my strength and honor won."]}, {"id": "B9.36.14", "lines": ["Now choose a bride and guide this matter through;", "In good and ill I still depend on you."]}, {"id": "B9.36.15", "lines": ["You have a daughter hidden from all eyes,", "Whose beauty suits the throne where honor lies."]}, {"id": "B9.36.16", "lines": ["Her name is Farangis; if I may stand", "As worthy of her, grant to me her hand.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.36.17", "lines": ["Afrasiab fell silent and dismayed,", "And slow tears gathered as the plea he weighed."]}, {"id": "B9.36.18", "lines": ["He said: “I raised this matter once with you,", "Yet you rejected what I held as true."]}, {"id": "B9.36.19", "lines": ["A sage once warned me, lofty in his thought:", "‘A male lion cub is dearly taught."]}, {"id": "B9.36.20", "lines": ["You nurse and train him, make his body strong,", "And labor for his growth the whole year long."]}, {"id": "B9.36.21", "lines": ["Your labor ends when lion-strength is shown,", "Yet none of all its fruit becomes your own."]}, {"id": "B9.36.22", "lines": ["His first fierce stroke, when fighting strength has spread,", "Will seize the man who reared him by the head.’"]}, {"id": "B9.36.23", "lines": ["Again before my nobles in the hall,", "The gray-haired Mobadan revealed it all."]}, {"id": "B9.36.24", "lines": ["The star-wise men their calculations drew,", "And read the course the turning heavens knew."]}, {"id": "B9.36.25", "lines": ["They said: ‘From these two noble lines shall rise", "A sovereign whose command will reach the skies.’"]}, {"id": "B9.36.26", "lines": ["My crown will be the first prize he will claim,", "Then throne and treasure, army, land, and name."]}, {"id": "B9.36.27", "lines": ["No sound dominion in Turan will stay;", "No refuge in the world will bar his way."]}, {"id": "B9.36.28", "lines": ["Why plant a tree with poison for its fruit,", "And nurse the death that rises from its root?"]}, {"id": "B9.36.29", "lines": ["When Kavus’s line is joined to mine by blood,", "It may break forth like fire and raging flood."]}, {"id": "B9.36.30", "lines": ["I know not whether Turan wins his heart,", "Or Iran calls and draws his love apart."]}, {"id": "B9.36.31", "lines": ["Why drink the poison set before my sight?", "What prudent man invites a serpent’s bite?"]}, {"id": "B9.36.32", "lines": ["While he remains in Turan by my side,", "As brother I will guard him and abide."]}, {"id": "B9.36.33", "lines": ["If later toward his homeland he should fare,", "I will provide all needs with ample care."]}, {"id": "B9.36.34", "lines": ["And send him back with honor to his sire,", "As justice and the Judge himself require.”"]}, {"id": "B9.36.35", "lines": ["Piran replied: “Do not let fear remain;", "O king, let wisdom now your heart sustain."]}, {"id": "B9.36.36", "lines": ["One born from Siavash’s royal line", "Will wakeful wisdom with restraint combine."]}, {"id": "B9.36.37", "lines": ["Do not rely on what the stars declare,", "But judge this matter with your judgment fair."]}, {"id": "B9.36.38", "lines": ["From such a bond a prince shall one day spring,", "Whose head shall reach the sun, a mighty king."]}, {"id": "B9.36.39", "lines": ["On Iran and Turan his throne shall reign,", "And both great realms from warfare shall refrain."]}, {"id": "B9.36.40", "lines": ["From Fereydoon and Qobad joined in line,", "No brighter royal lineage shall shine."]}, {"id": "B9.36.41", "lines": ["If heaven keeps some other end concealed,", "No anxious thought can force it be revealed."]}, {"id": "B9.36.42", "lines": ["What must befall will neither shrink nor grow;", "No caution alters what the heavens show."]}, {"id": "B9.36.43", "lines": ["This deed is blessed; let fortune show the way,", "And give the answer to your doubt today.”"]}, {"id": "B9.36.44", "lines": ["Afrasiab replied: “Your counsel stands;", "I see no evil in what wisdom plans."]}, {"id": "B9.36.45", "lines": ["Go now and do whatever good you see;", "In this affair your judgment speaks for me.”"]}, {"id": "B9.36.46", "lines": ["Piran bowed low and blessed the royal name,", "Then from the presence of the monarch came."]}, {"id": "B9.36.47", "lines": ["He came to Siavash and told him all,", "And joy arose within the prince’s hall."]}, {"id": "B9.36.48", "lines": ["They drank together through the whole long night,", "And washed grief from the soul till hearts grew light."]}, {"id": "B9.37.1", "lines": ["When dawn arose across the turning sky,", "It shone like golden shield uplifted high."]}, {"id": "B9.37.2", "lines": ["Piran made ready, mounted with all speed,", "And rode away upon his chosen steed."]}, {"id": "B9.37.3", "lines": ["He reached the prince’s court and, bowing, prayed", "His blessing on the farr the prince displayed."]}, {"id": "B9.37.4", "lines": ["He said: “Prepare yourself; the time draws near,", "To welcome now the royal daughter here."]}, {"id": "B9.37.5", "lines": ["If you command, my belt I now shall bind,", "And undertake the work you have in mind.”"]}, {"id": "B9.37.6", "lines": ["The prince grew modest, blushing as he heard,", "And youthful shame within his heart was stirred."]}, {"id": "B9.37.7", "lines": ["For Piran’s daughter was already bride,", "Jarireh, heart and soul, stood at his side."]}, {"id": "B9.37.8", "lines": ["He said: “Do as you will, and as seems best;", "You know my heart and all within my breast.”"]}, {"id": "B9.37.9", "lines": ["Piran returned and homeward bent his way,", "Resolved to bring the marriage to its day."]}, {"id": "B9.37.10", "lines": ["He gave Golshahr the key to garments rare,", "And put the household stores beneath her care."]}, {"id": "B9.37.11", "lines": ["She was the mistress of his honored hall,", "Bright-minded, praised and prudent over all."]}, {"id": "B9.37.12", "lines": ["One thousand lengths of Chinese cloth-of-gold,", "The choicest fabrics from his stores unrolled."]}, {"id": "B9.37.13", "lines": ["With emerald trays and turquoise cups arrayed,", "With musk and raw aloe within them laid."]}, {"id": "B9.37.14", "lines": ["Two jeweled crowns, two bracelets of fine art,", "One golden torc, most rare in every part."]}, {"id": "B9.37.15", "lines": ["And sixty camel-loads of carpets lay,", "Three sets of gold-woven robes in bright array."]}, {"id": "B9.37.16", "lines": ["With cloth sewn thick with jewels, richly made,", "And thirty loads of gold and silver weighed."]}, {"id": "B9.37.17", "lines": ["A golden throne and four fine chairs were brought,", "With Persian wares and garments finely wrought."]}, {"id": "B9.37.18", "lines": ["Three golden slippers, emeralds inlaid,", "And golden cups in servants’ hands displayed."]}, {"id": "B9.37.19", "lines": ["Two hundred bore those cups in ordered row,", "A glittering train in long and stately show."]}, {"id": "B9.37.20", "lines": ["Three hundred servants, golden-capped, drew near,", "With almost a hundred kinsmen in the rear."]}, {"id": "B9.37.21", "lines": ["Ten trays of musk, a hundred saffron bore,", "In fragrant tribute from the treasure-store."]}, {"id": "B9.37.22", "lines": ["Golshahr and all her sisters came in sight,", "A golden ammari draped in diba bright."]}, {"id": "B9.37.23", "lines": ["Golshahr took ten thousand dinars then,", "And cast them out in largesse among men."]}, {"id": "B9.37.24", "lines": ["They brought the gifts to Farangis with praise,", "And blessed her for the fortune of her days."]}, {"id": "B9.37.25", "lines": ["Golshahr kissed earth and cried before them all:", "“Now Venus joins the Sun within this hall.”"]}, {"id": "B9.37.26", "lines": ["Piran and Afrasiab, both as one,", "Hastened the work for Kavus’s royal son."]}, {"id": "B9.37.27", "lines": ["They gave the bride as custom did require,", "And witnesses confirmed the pact entire."]}, {"id": "B9.37.28", "lines": ["When all was done, a message sped like smoke,", "And Piran sent to Golshahr as he spoke:"]}, {"id": "B9.37.29", "lines": ["“Go now and seek the bride without delay;", "Bring Farangis to Siavash today.”"]}, {"id": "B9.37.30", "lines": ["She went to Farangis and made it known:", "“Tonight, like moonlight, you adorn his throne.”"]}, {"id": "B9.37.31", "lines": ["They robed the bride in all her bridal grace,", "And laid black musk upon her rose-bright face."]}, {"id": "B9.37.32", "lines": ["Like a new moon she entered, soft and bright,", "And came before the young Shah in the night."]}, {"id": "B9.37.33", "lines": ["They dwelt in joy, their happiness complete,", "And love increased each moment they would meet."]}, {"id": "B9.37.34", "lines": ["For seven nights no bird or fish would sleep,", "No weary head in slumber settled deep."]}, {"id": "B9.37.35", "lines": ["The earth became a garden all around,", "As joy and minstrels’ voices filled the ground."]}, {"id": "B9.38.1", "lines": ["When that full week had passed, the king prepared", "Rich gifts of steeds and arms, in order shared."]}, {"id": "B9.38.2", "lines": ["Arabian steeds, bright jowshan, tempered helms,", "With flocks and many gorz gathered from his realms."]}, {"id": "B9.38.3", "lines": ["With kamands, purses full of silver, gold,", "With robes and other treasures manifold."]}, {"id": "B9.38.4", "lines": ["They named the cities granted, one by one,", "From Turan’s bounds to where Chin’s waters run."]}, {"id": "B9.38.5", "lines": ["Its length a hundred farsangs, vast and wide,", "Its breadth no measurer ever could decide."]}, {"id": "B9.38.6", "lines": ["For all this realm they wrote a royal deed,", "On parniyan, by Kayan custom decreed."]}, {"id": "B9.38.7", "lines": ["A golden crown and throne the king bestowed,", "And all the signs by which his kingship showed."]}, {"id": "B9.38.8", "lines": ["He spread a feast for all who would appear,", "And filled the court with plenty and good cheer."]}, {"id": "B9.38.9", "lines": ["With wine and laden tables, cooks in line,", "And all who came ate freely, drank their wine."]}, {"id": "B9.38.10", "lines": ["For seven days the guests rejoiced and fed,", "Then each went home with joy in heart and head."]}, {"id": "B9.38.11", "lines": ["The king flung wide the prison-gates that day,", "And freed the captives, sending chains away."]}, {"id": "B9.38.12", "lines": ["Upon the eighth, when dawn began to break,", "Came Siavash, with Piran in his wake."]}, {"id": "B9.38.13", "lines": ["They took their leave before the royal face,", "Then both returned to their broad dwelling-place."]}, {"id": "B9.38.14", "lines": ["They blessed the king with voices clear and high,", "And praised the world-ruler beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.38.15", "lines": ["“May all your days in happiness remain,", "And may your enemy bow beneath your reign.”"]}, {"id": "B9.38.16", "lines": ["They left in joy, their gratitude made known,", "And praised the world-ruler upon his throne."]}, {"id": "B9.38.17", "lines": ["A year then passed in justice and in love,", "Beneath the turning heavens high above."]}, {"id": "B9.38.18", "lines": ["Then from the king a trusted envoy came,", "With gracious words and greetings in his name."]}, {"id": "B9.38.19", "lines": ["He said: “The king bestows this realm on you,", "From here to Chin, its lands and cities too."]}, {"id": "B9.38.20", "lines": ["Go forth and journey through the lands you own,", "And choose the city where your peace is known."]}, {"id": "B9.38.21", "lines": ["Where peace and comfort answer to your need,", "Remain in joy, and there may you succeed."]}, {"id": "B9.38.22", "lines": ["Let not your heart from happiness take flight,", "But live in joy by day, and rest by night.”"]}, {"id": "B9.38.23", "lines": ["Siavash rejoiced; the ney and koust were heard,", "And all the country answered to their word."]}, {"id": "B9.38.24", "lines": ["He mustered troops and readied for the way,", "His arms, gold crown, and treasure in array."]}, {"id": "B9.38.25", "lines": ["They ranged the ammari for royal ride,", "With women robed and veiled in silk inside."]}, {"id": "B9.38.26", "lines": ["Within one ammari Farangis rode,", "And after her the laden baggage flowed."]}, {"id": "B9.38.27", "lines": ["The chiefs set forth beside the royal train,", "In shining ranks across the open plain."]}, {"id": "B9.38.28", "lines": ["To Khutan’s fertile fields they rode in line,", "Where Piran held command by right and sign."]}, {"id": "B9.38.29", "lines": ["There Siavash agreed a while to rest,", "A month of feast and hunt, a royal guest."]}, {"id": "B9.38.30", "lines": ["The days went by in banquet and the chase,", "Until the month had run its gentle race."]}, {"id": "B9.38.31", "lines": ["At rooster’s cry the koust rang loud and clear,", "And Siavash set forth as dawn drew near."]}, {"id": "B9.38.32", "lines": ["Piran rode first and opened up the way,", "While ordered ranks behind him formed array."]}, {"id": "B9.38.33", "lines": ["The news spread wide; the nobles gathered round", "To greet their lord with loyalty profound."]}, {"id": "B9.38.34", "lines": ["They left their homes and decked the roads in line,", "As royal custom made the country shine."]}, {"id": "B9.38.35", "lines": ["Such shouting rose across the realm in flight,", "One thought it was the Resurrection Night."]}, {"id": "B9.38.36", "lines": ["The chang and ney together rang with force,", "Each heart seemed driven from its settled course."]}, {"id": "B9.38.37", "lines": ["One day they reached a fertile, favored ground,", "A place of beauty, rich with promise round."]}, {"id": "B9.38.38", "lines": ["One side a mountain rose, one met the sea;", "A hunting plain stretched broad and fair and free."]}, {"id": "B9.38.39", "lines": ["With streams and groves where running waters sprung,", "A place whose freshness made the old heart young."]}, {"id": "B9.38.40", "lines": ["Siavash turned to Piran and then said:", "“Behold what blessed land before us spread."]}, {"id": "B9.38.41", "lines": ["Here will I make a city broad and bright,", "A place to fill the heart with fresh delight."]}, {"id": "B9.38.42", "lines": ["With gardens, palaces, and courts arrayed,", "A spacious city beautifully made."]}, {"id": "B9.38.43", "lines": ["A royal seat shall rise toward the moon,", "Fit for the crown and throne I shall assume.”"]}, {"id": "B9.38.44", "lines": ["Piran replied: “O prince of counsel clear,", "Whatever you desire, command me here."]}, {"id": "B9.38.45", "lines": ["At your command, according to your mind,", "A moon-high palace here shall stand designed."]}, {"id": "B9.38.46", "lines": ["I seek no land or treasure as my own;", "Time and the earth I hold from you on loan.”"]}, {"id": "B9.38.47", "lines": ["Siavash said: “Your hand makes greatness grow;", "Its tree bears fruit wherever you may go."]}, {"id": "B9.38.48", "lines": ["My wealth and welfare all from you proceed;", "In every place I see your toil and deed."]}, {"id": "B9.38.49", "lines": ["Upon this ground a splendid city tall", "Shall rise and leave astonished one and all.”"]}, {"id": "B9.39.1", "lines": ["I open now the record of the past,", "To tell of Siavash and Gangdezh vast."]}, {"id": "B9.39.2", "lines": ["I speak of Gang, its building and its fame,", "Its ancient form, its memory, and name."]}, {"id": "B9.39.3", "lines": ["Praise to the One who made the world we know,", "And shaped both hidden things and those that show."]}, {"id": "B9.39.4", "lines": ["Source of existence and of what is none;", "All things are paired, but Yazdan alone is One."]}, {"id": "B9.39.5", "lines": ["Praise to the Prophet and companions true,", "And blessings on the faithful, their just due."]}, {"id": "B9.39.6", "lines": ["The righteous left this world and passed away;", "Do not suppose that you alone will stay."]}, {"id": "B9.39.7", "lines": ["Where are the crowned kings who ruled the earth?", "Where are the valiant chiefs of noble worth?"]}, {"id": "B9.39.8", "lines": ["Where are the sages, learned and keen of sight,", "And those who labored through their books for light?"]}, {"id": "B9.39.9", "lines": ["Where are the beauties, modest, soft of tone,", "Whose gracious words and voices once were known?"]}, {"id": "B9.39.10", "lines": ["Where are the men who made the mountains theirs,", "Who turned from ease and pleasure and their cares?"]}, {"id": "B9.39.11", "lines": ["Where are the chiefs whose heads reached toward the cloud,", "Who hunted lions and whose fame was loud?"]}, {"id": "B9.39.12", "lines": ["Now earth and brick provide their final bed;", "Blessed is one who sows good seed instead."]}, {"id": "B9.39.13", "lines": ["From dust we came, and back to dust must go;", "All places harbor fear, distress, and woe."]}, {"id": "B9.39.14", "lines": ["You leave, while still the world pursues its way;", "No man knows what lies hidden past his day."]}, {"id": "B9.39.15", "lines": ["The world is filled with wisdom and with signs;", "Why then does heedlessness possess our minds?"]}, {"id": "B9.39.16", "lines": ["Now sixty-six full years have passed for me;", "Turn now from gain and toil; set yourself free."]}, {"id": "B9.39.17", "lines": ["You grasped for more throughout your worldly span,", "While many friends departed, man by man."]}, {"id": "B9.39.18", "lines": ["If still you doubt the counsel I have shown,", "Then hear what ancient records have made known."]}, {"id": "B9.39.19", "lines": ["When all those famous men had passed away,", "Why crown your head with greater wealth today?"]}, {"id": "B9.39.20", "lines": ["In former days, when justice held its sway,", "The world grew green and flourished day by day."]}, {"id": "B9.39.21", "lines": ["Now hear the ancient tale of Gangdezh told,", "And mark the wonders handed down of old."]}, {"id": "B9.39.22", "lines": ["No place like Gangdezh stands beneath the sky;", "No other land could please the heart or eye."]}, {"id": "B9.39.23", "lines": ["Siavash raised it through long toil and strain,", "And suffered much to found that fair domain."]}, {"id": "B9.39.24", "lines": ["Beyond Chin’s sea, a month’s long journey through,", "There lay a nameless land that no man knew."]}, {"id": "B9.39.25", "lines": ["Across the sea there lies a barren waste,", "A desert broad, by water never graced."]}, {"id": "B9.39.26", "lines": ["Beyond that plain a fertile land appears,", "With cities rich in profit through the years."]}, {"id": "B9.39.27", "lines": ["Still farther stands a mountain vast and high,", "Unmatched in height, ascending toward the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.39.28", "lines": ["Within that mountain Gangdezh hides from view;", "Know this: no harm can come from knowledge true."]}, {"id": "B9.39.29", "lines": ["A hundred farsangs marked the mountain round,", "Its height would weary eyes that sought its bound."]}, {"id": "B9.39.30", "lines": ["No path approached it from a single side;", "All round alike, no road an entrance supplied."]}, {"id": "B9.39.31", "lines": ["The pass runs thirty-three full farsangs long,", "Stone walls on either side rise sheer and strong."]}, {"id": "B9.39.32", "lines": ["If but a few good guards should hold the way,", "No armored force could drive those men away."]}, {"id": "B9.39.33", "lines": ["One hundred thousand armored horse might assail,", "With steeds in bargostvan, none could prevail."]}, {"id": "B9.39.34", "lines": ["Beyond it lay a city wide and bright,", "With gardens, eyvans, palaces in sight."]}, {"id": "B9.39.35", "lines": ["With baths and rivers, running streams that flowed,", "Each quarter joy and scent and color showed."]}, {"id": "B9.39.36", "lines": ["The hills are filled with game, the plains with deer,", "And who beholds it longs to linger here."]}, {"id": "B9.39.37", "lines": ["There pheasant, peacock, mountain partridge fly,", "Across the slopes and through the open sky."]}, {"id": "B9.39.38", "lines": ["No winter cold, no burning summer heat;", "There joy, repose, and food were all complete."]}, {"id": "B9.39.39", "lines": ["No sickness ever entered that calm place;", "It seemed a garden touched by heaven’s grace."]}, {"id": "B9.39.40", "lines": ["The water there was wholesome, clear, and bright;", "The whole green plain wore springtime’s fresh delight."]}, {"id": "B9.39.41", "lines": ["Its length and breadth were thirty farsangs each,", "By Persian measure marking all its reach."]}, {"id": "B9.39.42", "lines": ["Its summit rose two farsangs toward the sky;", "The climb would weary every climber’s eye."]}, {"id": "B9.39.43", "lines": ["Beyond the climb another plain lay green;", "No lovelier place in all the world was seen."]}, {"id": "B9.39.44", "lines": ["When Siavash had viewed that favored ground,", "In all Turan no finer place he found."]}, {"id": "B9.39.45", "lines": ["He made his name renowned through what he planned,", "And raised another wall around the land."]}, {"id": "B9.39.46", "lines": ["Stone, mortar, marble, and substances rare,", "And one strange substance no man could declare."]}, {"id": "B9.39.47", "lines": ["Two hundred cubits high and more it rose,", "And thirty-eight in breadth its measure shows."]}, {"id": "B9.39.48", "lines": ["No catapult could reach that lofty place,", "No arrow shot could ever strike its face."]}, {"id": "B9.39.49", "lines": ["You had to see the place with your own eyes;", "Else hearers might grow angry at such lies."]}, {"id": "B9.39.50", "lines": ["Two farsangs stretched from summit down to ground,", "While sheer and yawning chasms ringed it round."]}, {"id": "B9.39.51", "lines": ["No eye below could glimpse its lofty crest;", "A bird that sought its height would tire in quest."]}, {"id": "B9.39.52", "lines": ["The prince endured such hardship for renown,", "For greatness, royal throne, and kingly crown."]}, {"id": "B9.39.53", "lines": ["Within that lovely ground he built with skill,", "A splendid city fashioned to his will."]}, {"id": "B9.39.54", "lines": ["He raised its palaces, eyvans, and square,", "And planted countless trees in gardens fair."]}, {"id": "B9.39.55", "lines": ["He made the place a paradise to view,", "Rose, hyacinth, narcissus, tulips grew."]}, {"id": "B9.40.1", "lines": ["When from that pleasant tract they rode away,", "Siavash communed with his heart that day."]}, {"id": "B9.40.2", "lines": ["He called the sages versed in stars and fate:", "“Will farr and fortune bless what I create?"]}, {"id": "B9.40.3", "lines": ["Will this abode bring blessing to my reign,", "Or shall I rue the work and suffer pain?”"]}, {"id": "B9.40.4", "lines": ["“This founding is not blessed,” came their reply;", "“No happy fortune waits beneath this sky.”"]}, {"id": "B9.40.5", "lines": ["Their answer stirred his anger and his grief;", "His heart found neither comfort nor relief."]}, {"id": "B9.40.6", "lines": ["His hand grew slack upon his charger’s rein,", "And hot tears coursed along his face in pain."]}, {"id": "B9.40.7", "lines": ["Then Piran said: “My lord, what causes this?", "What grief has turned your heart from former bliss?”"]}, {"id": "B9.40.8", "lines": ["He said: “The lofty sky has filled my heart", "With pain, and sorrow wounds my inmost part."]}, {"id": "B9.40.9", "lines": ["Whatever wealth I gather to my side,", "With treasure and adorned halls spread wide,"]}, {"id": "B9.40.10", "lines": ["At last it all shall pass into a foe;", "Evil stays evil; death must lay me low."]}, {"id": "B9.40.11", "lines": ["No place on earth can equal Gangdezh’s grace;", "No other city holds so fair a place."]}, {"id": "B9.40.12", "lines": ["Good-giving farr has been my comrade true;", "With wisdom, wakeful fortune aided too."]}, {"id": "B9.40.13", "lines": ["I raised that city till its lofty crown", "Made even Pleiades seem lower down."]}, {"id": "B9.40.14", "lines": ["And now again I shall employ my hand", "To paint these walls with images I planned."]}, {"id": "B9.40.15", "lines": ["When treasure, palace, wealth adorn the ground,", "And royal splendor gathers all around,"]}, {"id": "B9.40.16", "lines": ["My joy within it will endure but brief;", "Another takes this seat and leaves me grief."]}, {"id": "B9.40.17", "lines": ["Neither my son nor I shall know its gain,", "Nor shall my worthy line enjoy this reign."]}, {"id": "B9.40.18", "lines": ["My life is short; before much time has passed,", "No palace or eyvan can hold me fast."]}, {"id": "B9.40.19", "lines": ["Afrasiab will sit where I have stayed;", "My guiltless death will hasten, fate obeyed."]}, {"id": "B9.40.20", "lines": ["So works the secret of the lofty sphere;", "It gives us joy, then misery draws near.”"]}, {"id": "B9.40.21", "lines": ["Piran replied: “My lord, cast off this care;", "Such thoughts can only deepen your despair."]}, {"id": "B9.40.22", "lines": ["Against all harm Afrasiab stands your shield;", "The royal signet in your hand is sealed."]}, {"id": "B9.40.23", "lines": ["While life remains, my pledge to you stands true;", "I shall not break the oath I swore to you."]}, {"id": "B9.40.24", "lines": ["No wind shall touch you while I guard you still;", "No breath shall stir one hair or work you ill.”"]}, {"id": "B9.40.25", "lines": ["Siavash said: “You seek an honored name;", "I see no other wish that you would claim."]}, {"id": "B9.40.26", "lines": ["No secret of my heart is barred from you;", "Stay wakeful-hearted, sound in all you do."]}, {"id": "B9.40.27", "lines": ["By Yazdan’s farr I know what lies before,", "And know the secret heaven keeps evermore."]}, {"id": "B9.40.28", "lines": ["I shall declare what future years contain;", "Of eyvan and of garden first make plain."]}, {"id": "B9.40.29", "lines": ["So when these things before your eyes appear,", "You cannot say, ‘Siavash left this unclear.’"]}, {"id": "B9.40.30", "lines": ["Open your ears, Piran, and hear me well;", "I speak of what the coming years will tell."]}, {"id": "B9.40.31", "lines": ["Hear this from me: few days shall pass me by", "Before a wakeful king decrees I die."]}, {"id": "B9.40.32", "lines": ["He will have me slain though guiltless of a crime;", "Another takes my crown and throne in time."]}, {"id": "B9.40.33", "lines": ["You keep your covenant and path upright;", "But heaven has willed another end in sight."]}, {"id": "B9.40.34", "lines": ["By an ill-wisher’s words and fortune dread,", "Though guiltless, evil falls upon my head."]}, {"id": "B9.40.35", "lines": ["Then Iran and Turan will rise in strife;", "Revenge will darken every heart and life."]}, {"id": "B9.40.36", "lines": ["Then all the earth shall fill with grief and pain,", "And vengeance draw its sword across the plain."]}, {"id": "B9.40.37", "lines": ["From Iran red and yellow flags will pour,", "With black and purple standards borne to war."]}, {"id": "B9.40.38", "lines": ["Then wealth and treasure shall be seized and borne,", "And wealthy lands be plundered, stripped, and torn."]}, {"id": "B9.40.39", "lines": ["Whole realms beneath the horses’ hooves shall fall,", "And running streams turn salt beyond recall."]}, {"id": "B9.40.40", "lines": ["The king of Turan shall repent too late,", "And rue the words that helped to shape his fate."]}, {"id": "B9.40.41", "lines": ["Repentance then will bring him no relief,", "When smoke from thriving lands proclaims their grief."]}, {"id": "B9.40.42", "lines": ["From Iran and Turan the cries shall spread;", "The world shall boil because my blood was shed."]}, {"id": "B9.40.43", "lines": ["Upon the sphere the World-Creator’s hand", "Has written fate; all ripens by command."]}, {"id": "B9.40.44", "lines": ["So let us eat and give while joy is near;", "When time commands, we too must disappear."]}, {"id": "B9.40.45", "lines": ["Why bind the heart to lodgings meant to fade,", "Or boast of treasure toil and grief have made?"]}, {"id": "B9.40.46", "lines": ["Another man will spend what you amass;", "Why feed a foe that waits for you to pass?”"]}, {"id": "B9.40.47", "lines": ["When Piran heard these words, his heart knew dread;", "He pondered deeply all the speaker said. "]}, {"id": "B9.40.48", "lines": ["He thought: “If what he says should come to be,", "Then I have brought this evil down on me."]}, {"id": "B9.40.49", "lines": ["I drew this ruin into Turan’s land,", "And sowed revenge abroad with my own hand."]}, {"id": "B9.40.50", "lines": ["Through toil I brought him into Turan’s hall,", "And gave him realm and crown and treasure all."]}, {"id": "B9.40.51", "lines": ["I heard each word the Shah had spoken clear;", "Such warnings he had often made me hear.”"]}, {"id": "B9.40.52", "lines": ["Then Piran said with kindness in his tone:", "“What of the sphere’s revolving course is known?"]}, {"id": "B9.40.53", "lines": ["Who taught you what the turning heavens know?", "Who opened secrets hidden here below?"]}, {"id": "B9.40.54", "lines": ["Has Iran come again into your mind;", "Kay Kavus, throne, and days once left behind?"]}, {"id": "B9.40.55", "lines": ["Content your heart; let anxious thoughts subside,", "And let the counsel of the wise now guide.”"]}, {"id": "B9.40.56", "lines": ["Along the road they spoke of future days,", "Their hearts still searching through fate’s hidden ways."]}, {"id": "B9.40.57", "lines": ["When from their horses both had reached the ground,", "Their talk fell still; no further speech was found."]}, {"id": "B9.40.58", "lines": ["A golden table soon was richly laid;", "Wine, rud, and minstrels gathered there and played."]}, {"id": "B9.41.1", "lines": ["They passed seven days in joy and good cheer,", "And spoke of kings whose fame all lands revere."]}, {"id": "B9.41.2", "lines": ["Upon the eighth, the king’s command was read", "To Piran, chief who Turan’s army led."]}, {"id": "B9.41.3", "lines": ["“March first toward Chin and to its distant shore,", "And choose the warriors you will take to war."]}, {"id": "B9.41.4", "lines": ["Then reach the borderlands of Hind below,", "And cross the Sind where its broad waters flow."]}, {"id": "B9.41.5", "lines": ["Demand the tribute all those regions pay,", "Toward Khazar’s frontier send your array.”"]}, {"id": "B9.41.6", "lines": ["Then koust and tabira rang out their sound,", "Their thunder shook the earth and all around."]}, {"id": "B9.41.7", "lines": ["From every side the warriors gathered fast", "And formed a battle-seeking army, massed."]}, {"id": "B9.41.8", "lines": ["From Turan’s court the army took its course,", "And took the Shah-appointed road in force."]}, {"id": "B9.41.9", "lines": ["Before Siavash lay treasure richly made,", "With steeds and dinars splendidly arrayed."]}, {"id": "B9.41.10", "lines": ["Then Piran took his leave before he went,", "And led his army out as he was sent."]}, {"id": "B9.42.1", "lines": ["A messenger from Afrasiab came,", "At sleeping-time he sped as swift as flame."]}, {"id": "B9.42.2", "lines": ["He brought to Siavash a shining scroll,", "Bright as the stars that through the darkness roll."]}, {"id": "B9.42.3", "lines": ["It said: “Since you departed from my sight,", "I find no rest, nor peace by day or night."]}, {"id": "B9.42.4", "lines": ["Now I have sought a fitting place for you,", "A place in Turan, rich and fair to view."]}, {"id": "B9.42.5", "lines": ["If where you dwell is pleasant to your heart,", "And grief and care from all your thoughts depart,"]}, {"id": "B9.42.6", "lines": ["Return to that kingdom now, as you must,", "And cast your ill-wishers’ heads into dust.”"]}, {"id": "B9.42.7", "lines": ["The prince prepared the baggage and his force,", "And swiftly took the Shah-appointed course."]}, {"id": "B9.42.8", "lines": ["A thousand red-haired she-camels bore the load,", "And moved in ordered ranks along the road."]}, {"id": "B9.42.9", "lines": ["A hundred mules bore treasure, silver store,", "And forty mules the golden dinars bore."]}, {"id": "B9.42.10", "lines": ["Ten thousand warriors rode beside his train,", "Chosen from Iran and from Turan’s plain."]}, {"id": "B9.42.11", "lines": ["The baggage train moved on in ordered line,", "With litters bearing women robed to shine."]}, {"id": "B9.42.12", "lines": ["With rubies, turquoise, torques, and jeweled crowns,", "And ornaments whose worth surpassed all bounds."]}, {"id": "B9.42.13", "lines": ["With ambergris, aloeswood, musk, perfume,", "With brocade, silk in richly woven bloom."]}, {"id": "B9.42.14", "lines": ["From Mesr and Chin, and Pars came woven freight,", "Thirty full camel-loads of costly weight."]}, {"id": "B9.42.15", "lines": ["The prince moved onward with his noble band,", "Until they reached Khorram-Bahar’s land."]}, {"id": "B9.42.16", "lines": ["There he marked out the city’s measured ground,", "Two farsangs long, two broad from bound to bound."]}, {"id": "B9.42.17", "lines": ["High palaces rose over gardens fair,", "And orchards flourished richly everywhere."]}, {"id": "B9.42.18", "lines": ["A city like a paradise would rise,", "With tulips, hyacinths beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B9.42.19", "lines": ["Within its halls he painted scenes of old,", "Of kings and wars and feasts in colors bold."]}, {"id": "B9.42.20", "lines": ["They painted Kavus seated on his throne,", "With armlet, gorz, his royal state full shown."]}, {"id": "B9.42.21", "lines": ["With Rostam strong, with Zal and Gudarz near,", "And all their gathered company drawn clear."]}, {"id": "B9.42.22", "lines": ["Elsewhere he showed Afrasiab in might,", "With Piran and Garsivaz set for fight."]}, {"id": "B9.42.23", "lines": ["That splendid city’s fame spread like a tide,", "Through all Iran and Turan, side by side."]}, {"id": "B9.42.24", "lines": ["At every point rose domes that touched the sky,", "Their summits climbed among the clouds on high."]}, {"id": "B9.42.25", "lines": ["Within sat minstrels singing many songs,", "While chiefs and warriors stood in ordered throngs."]}, {"id": "B9.42.26", "lines": ["Men called it Siavash-Gard throughout the land,", "And all rejoiced to see the city stand."]}, {"id": "B9.43.1", "lines": ["When Piran came from Hind and Chin, he found", "The splendors praised by every tongue around."]}, {"id": "B9.43.2", "lines": ["They praised Siavash-Gard through every hall,", "A work whose fame had spread among them all."]}, {"id": "B9.43.3", "lines": ["Its founding star rose fortunate and bright,", "The day of Ard was blessed beneath its light."]}, {"id": "B9.43.4", "lines": ["He heard of domes and orchards, streams and plains,", "Of halls and gardens, mountains, green domains."]}, {"id": "B9.43.5", "lines": ["He longed to see the work the prince had made,", "And hastened toward the city now displayed."]}, {"id": "B9.43.6", "lines": ["He gathered then a thousand warriors tried,", "Wise men of courage riding at his side."]}, {"id": "B9.43.7", "lines": ["All fit to serve in any enterprise,", "And see the prince’s work with their own eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.43.8", "lines": ["As Piran neared, Siavash came to meet,", "His army gathered round him, ranks complete."]}, {"id": "B9.43.9", "lines": ["When Piran saw the prince from far ahead,", "He left his horse and came on foot instead."]}, {"id": "B9.43.10", "lines": ["Siavash too dismounted at the sight,", "And clasped him in an embrace firm and tight."]}, {"id": "B9.43.11", "lines": ["They passed within the city side by side,", "Where thorns once grew, now shining halls stood wide."]}, {"id": "B9.43.12", "lines": ["Where brush had spread, now ordered gardens lay,", "And palace walls gave back the light of day."]}, {"id": "B9.43.13", "lines": ["Through every quarter Piran rode around,", "And blessed Siavash for the works he found."]}, {"id": "B9.43.14", "lines": ["“The royal farr, the greatness of your line,", "With wisdom in your heart together shine."]}, {"id": "B9.43.15", "lines": ["Without such gifts, how could your hand have raised", "A place whose ordered splendor leaves me amazed?"]}, {"id": "B9.43.16", "lines": ["May this sign stand until the final day,", "Among the chiefs whose names shall not decay."]}, {"id": "B9.43.17", "lines": ["May son on son in joy possess the crown,", "Victorious rulers blessed with high renown.”"]}, {"id": "B9.43.18", "lines": ["He roamed the city, pleased with all he found,", "Then reached Siavash’s halls on garden ground."]}, {"id": "B9.43.19", "lines": ["He turned toward Farangis in delight,", "And reached her palace flourishing and bright."]}, {"id": "B9.43.20", "lines": ["She came to greet him, asked how he had fared,", "And scattered shining dinars, all prepared."]}, {"id": "B9.43.21", "lines": ["Seated upon the throne, he cast his gaze,", "And saw the servants ranged in bright arrays."]}, {"id": "B9.43.22", "lines": ["He praised the World-Creator, thanks aloud,", "Then joined the feast among the gathered crowd."]}, {"id": "B9.43.23", "lines": ["With table spread, with wine and minstrels near,", "The cupbearer poured freely through the cheer."]}, {"id": "B9.43.24", "lines": ["For seven days they drank with cup in hand,", "Now glad at heart, now drunk throughout the band."]}, {"id": "B9.43.25", "lines": ["On the eighth day Piran displayed his store,", "And laid his princely journey-gifts before."]}, {"id": "B9.43.26", "lines": ["With rubies, royal jewels, diba rare,", "And jeweled crowns whose gems flashed everywhere."]}, {"id": "B9.43.27", "lines": ["With dinars, steeds, and saddles of khadang,", "With golden gear and leopard skins that hang."]}, {"id": "B9.43.28", "lines": ["For Farangis: a crown and earrings wrought,", "An armlet, and a jeweled torque he brought."]}, {"id": "B9.43.29", "lines": ["Then took his leave, his army in array,", "And rode to Khutan on the homeward way."]}, {"id": "B9.43.30", "lines": ["Returning home, he spoke to Golshahr thus:", "“If one has never seen what gladdens us,"]}, {"id": "B9.43.31", "lines": ["Nor known what Rizvan tells of Paradise,", "Then let him see this city with his eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.43.32", "lines": ["Where Siavash sits like sunlight on the throne,", "Soroush-blessed, with wisdom, farr full shown."]}, {"id": "B9.43.33", "lines": ["Go there in joy and see the city wide,", "And view Siavash’s work on every side."]}, {"id": "B9.43.34", "lines": ["The city’s lord outshines its ordered grace,", "Like eastern dawn that brightens every place."]}, {"id": "B9.43.35", "lines": ["And Farangis shone radiant and fair,", "Like moonlight resting on the evening air.”"]}, {"id": "B9.43.36", "lines": ["Then swift as ships that cross the open foam,", "He rode to Afrasiab’s royal home."]}, {"id": "B9.43.37", "lines": ["He told of tribute, battles, victories won,", "And heads in Hind cast down when war was done."]}, {"id": "B9.43.38", "lines": ["He laid before the king the gathered gain,", "And gave him news from every wide domain."]}, {"id": "B9.43.39", "lines": ["He said the Shah’s just rule had made hearts glad,", "From Sea of Chin to Rum, no land was sad."]}, {"id": "B9.43.40", "lines": ["Then Piran told what he had seen and heard,", "The king asked of Siavash, word by word."]}, {"id": "B9.43.41", "lines": ["Piran replied: “Whoever sees that place", "Would think Ordibehesht had clothed its face."]}, {"id": "B9.43.42", "lines": ["Soroush must have revealed that radiant scene,", "For even the sun knows no such lord serene."]}, {"id": "B9.43.43", "lines": ["I saw a city none on earth could claim,", "In Chin or Turan, equal to its fame."]}, {"id": "B9.43.44", "lines": ["With gardens, halls, and streams around the whole,", "As though pure wisdom mingled with the soul."]}, {"id": "B9.43.45", "lines": ["If grievance must be laid upon the world,", "Against this place not one charge could be hurled."]}, {"id": "B9.43.46", "lines": ["From far the palace of Farangis shone,", "Like gathered light condensed in single stone."]}, {"id": "B9.43.47", "lines": ["If Soroush came descending from the sphere,", "He could not match the farr and wisdom here."]}, {"id": "B9.43.48", "lines": ["With such a form and royal bearing bright,", "Your son-in-law may well your heart delight."]}, {"id": "B9.43.49", "lines": ["Both realms now rest from conflict and from strife,", "Like one who swooned, now called again to life."]}, {"id": "B9.43.50", "lines": ["May this endure forever in our state,", "With wise men’s hearts and counsel of the great.”"]}, {"id": "B9.43.51", "lines": ["The king rejoiced to hear these words of praise,", "His flourishing branch bore fruit before his gaze."]}, {"id": "B9.44.1", "lines": ["Afrasiab told Garsivaz the whole,", "Of Piran’s words, and what lay in his soul."]}, {"id": "B9.44.2", "lines": ["He said: “Go now to Siavash-Gard and see", "What deeds are done, then bring the word to me."]}, {"id": "B9.44.3", "lines": ["His heart is set on Turan and its power,", "He gives no thought to Iran any hour."]}, {"id": "B9.44.4", "lines": ["He has left crown and royal seat behind,", "And Gudarz, Bahram, Kavus from his mind."]}, {"id": "B9.44.5", "lines": ["Rostam, Zal’s son, no longer fills his thought,", "Nor bow nor gorz for battle now is sought."]}, {"id": "B9.44.6", "lines": ["Instead he built, where thorn and bramble grew,", "A city bright, as though the spring were new."]}, {"id": "B9.44.7", "lines": ["For Farangis he raised a palace high,", "And holds her honored underneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.44.8", "lines": ["Prepare to go before the prince; speak well,", "Regard him highly in the words you tell."]}, {"id": "B9.44.9", "lines": ["At hunt and feast, at wine, on mount and plain,", "Iran’s assembled men will form a train."]}, {"id": "B9.44.10", "lines": ["Show him full honor in his nobles’ sight,", "And praise his name with dignity and right."]}, {"id": "B9.44.11", "lines": ["Take dinars, jewels, horses richly bred,", "A golden girdle, crown for royal head."]}, {"id": "B9.44.12", "lines": ["Bring Chinese diba, diadem, and blade,", "With gorz and rings, and carpets richly made."]}, {"id": "B9.44.13", "lines": ["Take scents and colors, rarest of their kind,", "And every precious treasure you can find."]}, {"id": "B9.44.14", "lines": ["Choose from the treasury the choicest things,", "Bear a gift to Farangis, child of kings."]}, {"id": "B9.44.15", "lines": ["Bear praise and blessings with you as you go,", "And let your words of honor freely flow."]}, {"id": "B9.44.16", "lines": ["Remain two weeks within his city bright,", "If he receives you well, stay in delight.”"]}, {"id": "B9.44.17", "lines": ["Garsivaz chose a thousand of the best,", "Turanian riders, chosen from the rest."]}, {"id": "B9.44.18", "lines": ["The chosen horsemen gathered round his force,", "And toward Siavash-Gard they set their course."]}, {"id": "B9.44.19", "lines": ["When word arrived, the prince rode out to greet,", "With all his army mustered, ranks complete."]}, {"id": "B9.44.20", "lines": ["They met, embraced; Siavash asked him then,", "How Afrasiab fared among his men."]}, {"id": "B9.44.21", "lines": ["He led him back and welcomed him inside,", "And quarters for his army he supplied."]}, {"id": "B9.44.22", "lines": ["At dawn next day came Garsivaz, and bore", "The message with him, and the gathered store."]}, {"id": "B9.44.23", "lines": ["When Siavash saw the royal gifts arrayed,", "He bloomed like spring, his happiness displayed."]}, {"id": "B9.44.24", "lines": ["Siavash mounted, ready for the ride,", "And Iran’s gathered horsemen thronged his side."]}, {"id": "B9.44.25", "lines": ["He led him round the quarters, showed him all,", "Then turned with him toward the royal hall."]}, {"id": "B9.45.1", "lines": ["A rider came to Siavash like the wind,", "With joyful news he swiftly brought to mind."]}, {"id": "B9.45.2", "lines": ["He said: “The chief’s daughter has borne a child,", "Moon-faced and noble, fortunate and mild."]}, {"id": "B9.45.3", "lines": ["They named him Forood from the hour of birth,", "A prince of high good fortune on the earth.”"]}, {"id": "B9.45.4", "lines": ["When Piran heard the news that very night,", "He sent two riders forth in urgent flight."]}, {"id": "B9.45.5", "lines": ["He said: “Go quickly to the prince and tell", "The news that makes each heart with gladness swell.”"]}, {"id": "B9.45.6", "lines": ["Jarireh, mother of the noble boy,", "Chief of exalted women, stood with joy."]}, {"id": "B9.45.7", "lines": ["She bade them mark his hand with saffron dye, ", "And press it on the letter for his eye."]}, {"id": "B9.45.8", "lines": ["“Take this to Siavash,” she bade them say: ", " “Pure Yazdan crowns our lives with joy today.”"]}, {"id": "B9.45.9", "lines": ["Then Siavash blessed the child in solemn prayer: ", " “May royal glory never lack an heir!”"]}, {"id": "B9.45.10", "lines": ["He gave the bearer coin in such a sum, ", "The weight of gold near made his arms grow numb."]}, {"id": "B9.45.11", "lines": ["Garsivaz heard the joyful news with cheer:", "“Now Piran joins the Shah as kinsman near.”"]}, {"id": "B9.45.12", "lines": ["The prince and Garsivaz together went,", "To Farangis, and told what news was sent."]}, {"id": "B9.45.13", "lines": ["Garsivaz saw her on an ivory throne,", "With turquoise crown that brightly on her shone."]}, {"id": "B9.45.14", "lines": ["In golden caps her attendants stood bright,", "Like lesser moons that paled before her light."]}, {"id": "B9.45.15", "lines": ["She rose and greeted him with gracious word,", "And asked what hardships on the road occurred."]}, {"id": "B9.45.16", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz felt heart and mind grow hot,", "As boiling thoughts disturbed his inward lot."]}, {"id": "B9.45.17", "lines": ["He thought: “Before another year is through,", "Siavash will count no man his equal too."]}, {"id": "B9.45.18", "lines": ["The kingship, throne, the treasure, realm, and force,", "Will all be his as fortune holds its course.”"]}, {"id": "B9.45.19", "lines": ["He hid the turmoil buried in his breast,", "Though pallor showed the thoughts he still suppressed."]}, {"id": "B9.45.20", "lines": ["Yet outwardly he blessed their happy state:", "“Enjoy your toil’s ripe fruit and treasure great.”"]}, {"id": "B9.45.21", "lines": ["Two golden thrones were set within the room,", "Where radiant joy dispelled each shadow’s gloom."]}, {"id": "B9.45.22", "lines": ["A rud-player and cupbearer drew near,", "Before the jeweled throne with wine and cheer."]}, {"id": "B9.45.23", "lines": ["The rud and ney with singers joined in sound,", "And music spread its gladness all around."]}, {"id": "B9.46.1", "lines": ["When morning cleared the far and shining sky,", "And cast its light on every land nearby,"]}, {"id": "B9.46.2", "lines": ["The prince rode from the eyvan to the field,", "To strike the ball where mounted nobles wheeled."]}, {"id": "B9.46.3", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz rode forth and struck the ball,", "And sent it flashing past the nobles all."]}, {"id": "B9.46.4", "lines": ["Siavash caught it cleanly in his play,", "His rival took the dust and fell away."]}, {"id": "B9.46.5", "lines": ["The ball he struck rose upward out of sight,", "As though the sky had drawn it to its height."]}, {"id": "B9.46.6", "lines": ["He turned and said to those who pressed behind:", "“The field is yours; play on as suits your mind.”"]}, {"id": "B9.46.7", "lines": ["When all the warriors gathered on the field,", "The Iranians took the ball and would not yield."]}, {"id": "B9.46.8", "lines": ["He watched Iran prevail with glad delight,", "A free-grown cypress rising in their sight."]}, {"id": "B9.46.9", "lines": ["He ordered then a golden throne be set,", "And called for trials that none would soon forget."]}, {"id": "B9.46.10", "lines": ["Upon the royal stand the princes sat,", "And watched the riders charge in fierce combat."]}, {"id": "B9.46.11", "lines": ["With darts in hand they strove, a valiant sort,", "To prove their prowess to the royal court."]}, {"id": "B9.46.12", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz spoke out in tones of praise:", "“O king whose name shall live through countless days,"]}, {"id": "B9.46.13", "lines": ["Your skill surpasses even royal birth;", "Now show Turan your prowess and your worth."]}, {"id": "B9.46.14", "lines": ["Let them behold your bow and spear in play,", "And how you turn the reins in mounted fray.”"]}, {"id": "B9.46.15", "lines": ["The prince laid his right hand upon his breast,", "Then mounted swiftly, eager for the test."]}, {"id": "B9.46.16", "lines": ["They bound five jowshans close in one array,", "Each one could burden any man that day."]}, {"id": "B9.46.17", "lines": ["They set the coats before the gathered ranks,", "And all the army watched from either flank."]}, {"id": "B9.46.18", "lines": ["Siavash took the spear his father bore,", "A weapon famed through many wars before."]}, {"id": "B9.46.19", "lines": ["In Mazandaran, hunting through the land,", "He struck a lion with that spear in hand."]}, {"id": "B9.46.20", "lines": ["He rode across the field with driving force,", "And wheeled like a mad elephant his horse."]}, {"id": "B9.46.21", "lines": ["He pierced the jowshans through and tore them free;", "The shattered links flew wide for all to see."]}, {"id": "B9.46.22", "lines": ["He raised the spear and cast the armor wide,", "Wherever he desired, from side to side."]}, {"id": "B9.46.23", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz with riders pressed ahead,", "Long spears in hand, around the jowshans sped."]}, {"id": "B9.46.24", "lines": ["They circled round the armor on the plain,", "Yet could not lift one ring with all their strain."]}, {"id": "B9.46.25", "lines": ["Four shields of Gilan Siavash ordered then,", "Two wood, two tempered steel before the men."]}, {"id": "B9.46.26", "lines": ["He took six poplar arrows at his waist,", "One shaft in hand, its feathered end well placed."]}, {"id": "B9.46.27", "lines": ["He set one arrow ready on the string,", "And drew the bow until it formed a ring."]}, {"id": "B9.46.28", "lines": ["He loosed; one shaft pierced every shield in line,", "And all the watching ranks beheld the sign."]}, {"id": "B9.46.29", "lines": ["Three further arrows followed on its track,", "Each pierced the shields and none was driven back."]}, {"id": "B9.46.30", "lines": ["Old men and youths cried out in wonder loud,", "And called on Yazdan through the gathered crowd."]}, {"id": "B9.46.31", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz addressed the prince and said:", "“In Iran and Turan no peer is bred."]}, {"id": "B9.46.32", "lines": ["Come now with me upon the open ground,", "And let our strength before these men be found."]}, {"id": "B9.46.33", "lines": ["We shall grasp belts like stallions set to strain,", "And prove between us who will hold the rein."]}, {"id": "B9.46.34", "lines": ["Among Turanians none can match my might,", "And few have steeds as swift as mine in flight."]}, {"id": "B9.46.35", "lines": ["While you stand foremost among Iran’s best,", "In strength and stature greater than the rest."]}, {"id": "B9.46.36", "lines": ["If I should fling you from your steed to earth,", "And lay you low, for all to judge your worth,"]}, {"id": "B9.46.37", "lines": ["Then you must grant my body’s greater might,", "My horsemanship and fieldcraft prove me right."]}, {"id": "B9.46.38", "lines": ["But if you overthrow me on the plain,", "No more shall I with warlike men remain.”"]}, {"id": "B9.46.39", "lines": ["But Siavash replied: “Do not speak thus,", "For such a trial breeds anger among us."]}, {"id": "B9.46.40", "lines": ["You are a prince, a lion in the fight,", "Your strength and station both exceed my right."]}, {"id": "B9.46.41", "lines": ["Your steed is swifter than the one I ride,", "Your arms and helm are finer at your side."]}, {"id": "B9.46.42", "lines": ["Choose someone else among the Turan train,", "And do not let this sport engender pain.”"]}, {"id": "B9.46.43", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz replied: “This is but play;", "Champions grasp belts and test their strength this way.”"]}, {"id": "B9.46.44", "lines": ["But Siavash said: “This is not right to do,", "For play can turn to anger between two."]}, {"id": "B9.46.45", "lines": ["Though smiles appear, resentment may endure,", "And broken bonds are difficult to cure."]}, {"id": "B9.46.46", "lines": ["You are the brother of the ruling king,", "Beneath your hoof the moon itself would swing."]}, {"id": "B9.46.47", "lines": ["I will obey whatever you command,", "But on this point my covenant must stand."]}, {"id": "B9.46.48", "lines": ["Call forth one champion, mount him on a steed,", "And let him face me now in strength and speed."]}, {"id": "B9.46.49", "lines": ["If you insist that I should fight today,", "And lay proud heads of warriors in the clay,"]}, {"id": "B9.46.50", "lines": ["I will strive hard so I may bear no shame,", "Before your gaze, O prince of noble name.”"]}, {"id": "B9.46.51", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz, well pleased by what he heard,", "Smiled and addressed the troops with eager word:"]}, {"id": "B9.46.52", "lines": ["“O noble man, who seeks to win renown,", "And make his name resound in every town?"]}, {"id": "B9.46.53", "lines": ["Who will engage with Siavash today,", "And cast him from his saddle in the play?”"]}, {"id": "B9.46.54", "lines": ["The Turan warriors stood without a sound,", "No man stepped forth to claim the testing ground."]}, {"id": "B9.46.55", "lines": ["At last Gurvi Zereh rose and spoke:", "“I stand prepared to take the contest’s yoke.”"]}, {"id": "B9.46.56", "lines": ["At Gurvi’s words Siavash’s brow grew tight,", "His face drew furrows at the offered fight."]}, {"id": "B9.46.57", "lines": ["He praised Gurvi as strongest in the band,", "No Turanian warrior matched his hand."]}, {"id": "B9.46.58", "lines": ["Then Siavash replied: “I will not go", "Against you; one would be too weak a foe."]}, {"id": "B9.46.59", "lines": ["Let two be chosen from among your train,", "To stand against me here upon the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B9.46.60", "lines": ["Then Damur came, the first in Turan’s might,", "And girded for the test before their sight."]}, {"id": "B9.46.61", "lines": ["Damur and Gurvi wheeled across the course;", "Siavash rode between, and reined his horse."]}, {"id": "B9.46.62", "lines": ["Then Gurvi seized Siavash by the belt,", "And closed his grip with all the strength he felt."]}, {"id": "B9.46.63", "lines": ["Siavash seized his belt and made his stand,", "Then cast him down; no gorz and no kamand."]}, {"id": "B9.46.64", "lines": ["He turned on Damur next, of massive frame,", "And seized his neck and body in the game."]}, {"id": "B9.46.65", "lines": ["He unhorsed him with effortless command,", "And wonder seized the whole astonished band."]}, {"id": "B9.46.66", "lines": ["He bore him off with scarcely any thought,", "As lightly as a little bird is caught."]}, {"id": "B9.46.67", "lines": ["He dismounted, loosed his grip, then took the throne,", "And sat there laughing, all his prowess shown."]}, {"id": "B9.46.68", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz grew angry, full of grief,", "His face turned pale, betraying no relief."]}, {"id": "B9.46.69", "lines": ["They left the throne and entered chambers high,", "As though to Saturn’s station in the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.46.70", "lines": ["For seven days they feasted without end,", "With ney and rud and wine from friend to friend."]}, {"id": "B9.46.71", "lines": ["Upon the eighth they made their plans to go,", "And set their marching order row by row."]}, {"id": "B9.46.72", "lines": ["Siavash then wrote a letter to the king,", "With pleas, kind questions, every courteous thing."]}, {"id": "B9.46.73", "lines": ["He gave Garsivaz gifts in generous store,", "And honored him with many treasures more."]}, {"id": "B9.46.74", "lines": ["The Turan warriors left the city glad,", "And spoke with joy of all the sights they had."]}, {"id": "B9.46.75", "lines": ["They praised the land, and praised its lord and chief,", "Whose skill had passed the limits of belief."]}, {"id": "B9.46.76", "lines": ["But vengeful Garsivaz cried, “Evil came", "From Iran; now our warriors sit in shame."]}, {"id": "B9.46.77", "lines": ["The king has summoned one whose hand has made", "Us sit in blood, dishonored and dismayed."]}, {"id": "B9.46.78", "lines": ["Damur and Gurvi, lions in the fray,", "Those battle-loving chiefs, were brought to bay."]}, {"id": "B9.46.79", "lines": ["One foul-hearted rider brought them low,", "And left them helpless, wretched in their woe."]}, {"id": "B9.46.80", "lines": ["Siavash will press beyond what we now see;", "No end to this is visible to me.”"]}, {"id": "B9.47.1", "lines": ["He rode in haste toward the Turanian court,", "And came before the king with full report."]}, {"id": "B9.47.2", "lines": ["Afrasiab questioned him on every side,", "And Garsivaz at length to him replied."]}, {"id": "B9.47.3", "lines": ["He gave the letter; when the king had read,", "A smile appeared where troubled thoughts had spread."]}, {"id": "B9.47.4", "lines": ["Garsivaz saw his face grow bright with cheer,", "And marked the joy that now was written clear."]}, {"id": "B9.47.5", "lines": ["At sunset bitterness began to rise,", "And dark revenge took form before his eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.47.6", "lines": ["All night he writhed, a serpent on the ground,", "And sleep nowhere within his eyes was found."]}, {"id": "B9.47.7", "lines": ["At dawn he rose, and to the Shah he drew,", "His bitter purpose hidden still from view."]}, {"id": "B9.47.8", "lines": ["They sat apart where none could hear them speak,", "And Garsivaz began his counsel bleak:"]}, {"id": "B9.47.9", "lines": ["“Siavash, king, has changed in every way;", "A secret envoy from Kavus came to stay."]}, {"id": "B9.47.10", "lines": ["From Rum and Chin, too, messages arrive,", "At wine he keeps Kavus’s name alive."]}, {"id": "B9.47.11", "lines": ["Moreover, troops have gathered in his train,", "Enough to fill a sovereign’s heart with pain."]}, {"id": "B9.47.12", "lines": ["Had Tur not struck at Iraj long ago,", "Their father’s house would bear no lasting woe."]}, {"id": "B9.47.13", "lines": ["But now our hearts, like fire and water, divide,", "And ancient hatreds cannot be denied."]}, {"id": "B9.47.14", "lines": ["You seek to bind them, but you only strain,", "As though the wind itself you could contain."]}, {"id": "B9.47.15", "lines": ["Had I concealed this danger from your eyes,", "All men would brand my name with shame and lies.”"]}, {"id": "B9.47.16", "lines": ["The king replied, his troubled thoughts laid bare:", "“Your bond of blood has moved you to declare."]}, {"id": "B9.47.17", "lines": ["For three full days we shall reflect, and sound", "What truth or falsehood in this tale is found,"]}, {"id": "B9.47.18", "lines": ["When reason has made clear what course is due,", "I then will tell what cure we shall pursue.”"]}, {"id": "B9.47.19", "lines": ["Upon the fourth he came in armor dressed,", "His belt drawn tight, his helmet firmly pressed."]}, {"id": "B9.47.20", "lines": ["The king received him then behind closed door,", "And opened all the matter at its core."]}, {"id": "B9.47.21", "lines": ["“O you who guard Pashang’s remembered line,", "What other trusted kinsman here is mine?"]}, {"id": "B9.47.22", "lines": ["I must reveal the secrets of my thought,", "And hear what judgment you yourself have brought."]}, {"id": "B9.47.23", "lines": ["That troubling dream once shook my heart with fear,", "Yet still against Siavash I raised no spear."]}, {"id": "B9.47.24", "lines": ["He left a splendid throne and royal state,", "With wisdom warp and skill its woven mate."]}, {"id": "B9.47.25", "lines": ["He never once opposed a word I said,", "And kindness from my hand was freely spread."]}, {"id": "B9.47.26", "lines": ["I treated him with honor at my side,", "And gave him wealth and provinces to guide."]}, {"id": "B9.47.27", "lines": ["I hid my private grief within my breast,", "And never burdened him with my unrest."]}, {"id": "B9.47.28", "lines": ["I bound him fast through ties of blood and trust,", "And set aside all thoughts of war unjust."]}, {"id": "B9.47.29", "lines": ["I spared no treasure, nor my daughter’s hand,", "But trusted him with wealth and fertile land."]}, {"id": "B9.47.30", "lines": ["After such care, such honor freely shown,", "To harm him now would stain my name and throne."]}, {"id": "B9.47.31", "lines": ["If I should wrong him, scandal would arise,", "And every tongue condemn me with its cries."]}, {"id": "B9.47.32", "lines": ["The World-Creator would condemn the deed,", "And every noble born of worthy seed."]}, {"id": "B9.47.33", "lines": ["A lion bears sharp teeth and mighty claws,", "And does not bow to hunters or their laws."]}, {"id": "B9.47.34", "lines": ["But when its cub is wounded, made to bleed,", "It tears through field and forest at full speed."]}, {"id": "B9.47.35", "lines": ["If guiltless blood is shed, what follows soon?", "How answer then the Judge of Sun and Moon?"]}, {"id": "B9.47.36", "lines": ["No course I know but call him now my son,", "Then send him to his father, wronging none."]}, {"id": "B9.47.37", "lines": ["If seat and royal signet end dispute,", "Send him to Iran and leave contention mute.”"]}, {"id": "B9.47.38", "lines": ["But Garsivaz replied: “O king, beware;", "Do not dismiss the danger I declare."]}, {"id": "B9.47.39", "lines": ["If he returns and takes Iran’s royal seat,", "Your reign and glory face complete defeat."]}, {"id": "B9.47.40", "lines": ["When one who is a stranger turns to kin,", "He learns all secrets hidden deep within."]}, {"id": "B9.47.41", "lines": ["A wise man said: once wind escapes the hall,", "No hand can drive it back behind the wall."]}, {"id": "B9.47.42", "lines": ["It scatters household, treasure, name, and gold,", "And leaves the heart in grief’s relentless hold."]}, {"id": "B9.47.43", "lines": ["Who rears a leopard with the gentlest care,", "Will reap its claws and anguish for his share.”"]}, {"id": "B9.47.44", "lines": ["Afrasiab then pondered what he knew,", "And judged that Garsivaz might well speak true."]}, {"id": "B9.47.45", "lines": ["He cast aside the course he once had planned,", "Convinced his former judgment could not stand."]}, {"id": "B9.47.46", "lines": ["Then he resumed in low and troubled tone:", "“In this affair no rightful path is shown."]}, {"id": "B9.47.47", "lines": ["No path appears that leads to any gain,", "And all I see is loss and future pain."]}, {"id": "B9.47.48", "lines": ["Be patient till the turning sky reveals", "Its hidden course and what its motion seals."]}, {"id": "B9.47.49", "lines": ["In every matter waiting serves us best,", "Delay proves wiser than a hurried test."]}, {"id": "B9.47.50", "lines": ["Let sunlight fall upon this case awhile,", "Till time removes concealment, mask, and guile."]}, {"id": "B9.47.51", "lines": ["Then I shall know what purpose Yazdan sends,", "And where the favor of the heavens bends."]}, {"id": "B9.47.52", "lines": ["If I recall him to my court once more,", "His hidden purpose may come to the fore."]}, {"id": "B9.47.53", "lines": ["I shall stand guard and watch him, and discern", "What time will bring to light at every turn."]}, {"id": "B9.47.54", "lines": ["If then his treachery is proved and clear,", "I must act firmly, free of blame or fear."]}, {"id": "B9.47.55", "lines": ["No man will cast reproach upon my deed,", "For evil answers evil when there is need.”"]}, {"id": "B9.47.56", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz replied: “O prudent king,", "Your judgment governs every weighty thing."]}, {"id": "B9.47.57", "lines": ["Siavash bears the royal farr and state,", "His sword and gorz, his stature, all are great."]}, {"id": "B9.47.58", "lines": ["He comes with troops that darken sun and moon,", "And all your court will feel their shadow soon."]}, {"id": "B9.47.59", "lines": ["Siavash is not the man you knew before,", "His crown now reaches heaven’s height and more."]}, {"id": "B9.47.60", "lines": ["And Farangis you scarcely would know,", "As though she needs no gift the world can show."]}, {"id": "B9.47.61", "lines": ["Your troops will turn and gather at his call,", "And leave you shepherd with no flock at all."]}, {"id": "B9.47.62", "lines": ["An army seeing such a sovereign wise,", "So generous, moon-faced before their eyes,"]}, {"id": "B9.47.63", "lines": ["Will never more accept another king,", "Nor heed the crown or orders that you bring."]}, {"id": "B9.47.64", "lines": ["Will you command him from his royal seat,", "And from the city thriving at his feet?"]}, {"id": "B9.47.65", "lines": ["‘Abandon all and come at my command,", "As though you never ruled this prosperous land?’"]}, {"id": "B9.47.66", "lines": ["A lion cannot with an elephant dwell,", "Nor fire with water mingle and fare well."]}, {"id": "B9.47.67", "lines": ["If one should take a lion’s tender whelp,", "And raise it gently, giving constant help,"]}, {"id": "B9.47.68", "lines": ["And wrap the tender lion-cub in silk,", "And feed it sugar mixed with mother’s milk,"]}, {"id": "B9.47.69", "lines": ["Once grown, it turns again to nature’s call,", "And fears no elephant, however tall.”"]}, {"id": "B9.47.70", "lines": ["The monarch’s mind was shaken by this art,", "As doubt and sorrow settled in his heart."]}, {"id": "B9.47.71", "lines": ["Yet still he judged it wiser to delay,", "For prudent minds will find the surer way."]}, {"id": "B9.47.72", "lines": ["The headstrong man wins neither rank nor praise,", "His reckless haste destroys his better days."]}, {"id": "B9.47.73", "lines": ["A reckless wind that rages through the trees,", "Strips wood and field beneath its violent breeze."]}, {"id": "B9.47.74", "lines": ["A light-head gains no rank through height or might,", "Though cypress-tall, he lacks the wise man’s sight."]}, {"id": "B9.47.75", "lines": ["Thus unrest grew; their speech would never end,", "Old rancor filled each heart they could not mend."]}, {"id": "B9.47.76", "lines": ["Again the schemer came before the king,", "And colored every tale with some new sting."]}, {"id": "B9.47.77", "lines": ["He spread false tales of Siavash’s intent,", "And stirred suspicion till he won consent."]}, {"id": "B9.47.78", "lines": ["At last the monarch’s judgment was outrun,", "And fear and vengeance then ruled Pashang’s son."]}, {"id": "B9.47.79", "lines": ["One day he cleared the court and called him near,", "Then spoke of Siavash where none else could hear:"]}, {"id": "B9.47.80", "lines": ["“Go now to him and stay beside him long,", "And bear my message, word for word, along."]}, {"id": "B9.47.81", "lines": ["Speak in my name with courtesy and tact,", "And give my words to him in meaning exact:"]}, {"id": "B9.47.82", "lines": ["‘Amid your feasts and pleasures, rich and bright,", "You turn no thought to us by day or night."]}, {"id": "B9.47.83", "lines": ["But since you left, my heart has grieved for you;", "Come with Farangis; let delight ensue."]}, {"id": "B9.47.84", "lines": ["We long to see your face and share your mirth,", "And feast and hunt together over earth."]}, {"id": "B9.47.85", "lines": ["Within our hills, rich game and sport abound,", "In emerald cups both wine and milk are found."]}, {"id": "B9.47.86", "lines": ["Let us together spend a season glad,", "Then you may leave when absence makes you sad."]}, {"id": "B9.47.87", "lines": ["And when you wish to see your city fair,", "Return with joy and song and lightened care."]}, {"id": "B9.47.88", "lines": ["Why should my wine and cup be barred from you?", "Gird for the road; leave Kayanian seat from view.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.1", "lines": ["With practiced guile, Garsivaz set his snare,", "Revenge and hidden secrets claimed his care."]}, {"id": "B9.48.2", "lines": ["When Siavash’s walls appeared in view,", "He chose a smooth-tongued rider from his crew."]}, {"id": "B9.48.3", "lines": ["“Go speak to him,” he said, “and bear this sign:", "‘Renowned son of Kavus’s royal line,"]}, {"id": "B9.48.4", "lines": ["By life and crown of Turan’s sovereign lord,", "And Kavus’s crown, by all the world adored,"]}, {"id": "B9.48.5", "lines": ["Descend not from your throne to meet me here,", "Nor ride along the road as I draw near."]}, {"id": "B9.48.6", "lines": ["In wisdom, fortune, farr, and lineage high,", "Your crown and royal station touch the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.48.7", "lines": ["Do not for every passing wind prepare,", "Nor leave the Kayan seat at each affair.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.8", "lines": ["The messenger approached and kissed the earth,", "Then spoke with measured tone of royal worth."]}, {"id": "B9.48.9", "lines": ["Siavash heard, and sorrow filled his breast;", "He paused in thought and could not come to rest."]}, {"id": "B9.48.10", "lines": ["He weighed the words and felt a rising dread:", "“Some darker meaning hides in what he said."]}, {"id": "B9.48.11", "lines": ["What has my friend declared of my intent?", "What words of mine, and what report, were sent?”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.12", "lines": ["When Garsivaz arrived, the prince went out,", "On foot to greet him, though beset by doubt."]}, {"id": "B9.48.13", "lines": ["He asked of road and Shah, of army’s state,", "Of throne and crown, and all that marked his fate."]}, {"id": "B9.48.14", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz conveyed the king’s decree,", "And joy returned; Siavash’s heart was free."]}, {"id": "B9.48.15", "lines": ["“For love of him,” the prince replied with zeal,", "“I would not turn aside from sword or steel."]}, {"id": "B9.48.16", "lines": ["I will prepare at once to ride with you,", "And join my rein to yours, as comrades true."]}, {"id": "B9.48.17", "lines": ["Yet let us rest three days before we go,", "In golden gardens where the wine shall flow."]}, {"id": "B9.48.18", "lines": ["This world is but a lodging filled with pain,", "And life departs; no traveler can remain."]}, {"id": "B9.48.19", "lines": ["Alas for one whose days bring only grief,", "Who never tastes life’s joy, however brief.”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.20", "lines": ["When Garsivaz had heard what Siavash said,", "A surge of anger burned within his head."]}, {"id": "B9.48.21", "lines": ["He thought: “If he returns with me before the king,", "My schemes will fail and truth expose the thing."]}, {"id": "B9.48.22", "lines": ["His lion-heart and wisdom, joined in might,", "Will trample my suspicion out of sight."]}, {"id": "B9.48.23", "lines": ["My words will lose their luster in his eyes,", "Before the Shah my scheme will stand as lies."]}, {"id": "B9.48.24", "lines": ["I must devise a subtler course instead,", "And turn his thoughts along a darker thread.”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.25", "lines": ["He fixed his gaze and silence held him fast,", "While yellow tears across his lashes passed."]}, {"id": "B9.48.26", "lines": ["False tears ran down; within, he shaped the snare", "By which the prince would fall into despair."]}, {"id": "B9.48.27", "lines": ["The prince beheld him, spoke in gentle tone:", "“My brother, why this grief? What pain is known?"]}, {"id": "B9.48.28", "lines": ["What grief has clouded all your spirit so?", "Has royal anger laid you under woe?"]}, {"id": "B9.48.29", "lines": ["Come, I will go with you, prepared to fight,", "If Afrasiab has denied your right."]}, {"id": "B9.48.30", "lines": ["Against his army I will take the field,", "And force the Shah of Turan’s men to yield."]}, {"id": "B9.48.31", "lines": ["If he has harmed you, I will right the wrong,", "And bring the truth to light that hid so long."]}, {"id": "B9.48.32", "lines": ["If some declared foe troubles you with strife,", "I stand your friend in all affairs of life."]}, {"id": "B9.48.33", "lines": ["In battle too, my strength shall guard your way,", "And those who seek your harm I shall repay."]}, {"id": "B9.48.34", "lines": ["If slander cast you from your rightful seat,", "Or falsehood stained your honor with deceit,"]}, {"id": "B9.48.35", "lines": ["Then trust in me to right the wrong you bear,", "And tear the lying slander from the air."]}, {"id": "B9.48.36", "lines": ["Reveal the secret of this hidden snake;", "Whatever coils within, my hand shall break.”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.37", "lines": ["He said: “No feud with Afrasiab; I tell", "The truth because the ties of blood compel."]}, {"id": "B9.48.38", "lines": ["Since Tur first struck at Iran’s royal line,", "And guiltless Iraj fell by his design,"]}, {"id": "B9.48.39", "lines": ["For Tur’s dark deed his royal farr withdrew,", "And wisdom left him when that blood he drew."]}, {"id": "B9.48.40", "lines": ["They strayed from reason, wisdom was denied,", "And every bond between the kingdoms died."]}, {"id": "B9.48.41", "lines": ["From Tur to Afrasiab the hatred ran,", "And ruin followed every bitter plan."]}, {"id": "B9.48.42", "lines": ["Afrasiab exceeds even Tur in ire;", "And ancient hatred feeds his inward fire."]}, {"id": "B9.48.43", "lines": ["You do not know the changes in his mind;", "Wait but a while; his nature you will find."]}, {"id": "B9.48.44", "lines": ["First judge him by the brother once he knew,", "Aghriras, royal-born, whom he then slew."]}, {"id": "B9.48.45", "lines": ["At his own hand Aghriras met his end,", "No law or mercy moved him toward his friend."]}, {"id": "B9.48.46", "lines": ["And after that, how many nobles fell,", "Cut down by him for reasons none could tell."]}, {"id": "B9.48.47", "lines": ["My deepest care is fixed on you alone;", "Stay wakeful-hearted, sound in flesh and bone."]}, {"id": "B9.48.48", "lines": ["Since you have come into this foreign ground,", "In every act your judgment has been sound."]}, {"id": "B9.48.49", "lines": ["You sought javanmardi, truth, and right,", "And harmed no man through arrogance or might."]}, {"id": "B9.48.50", "lines": ["But Ahriman, who rends all souls apart,", "Has turned against you Afrasiab’s heart."]}, {"id": "B9.48.51", "lines": ["Now grief and vengeance rule his darkened mind;", "No mortal knows what Yazdan has designed."]}, {"id": "B9.48.52", "lines": ["Yet you have always known me as your friend,", "In joy and grief beside you to the end."]}, {"id": "B9.48.53", "lines": ["Do not suppose I hid this from your sight,", "Or knew and kept it buried from the light."]}, {"id": "B9.48.54", "lines": ["I laid the whole affair out, clear and bright;", "Think, seek a cure, then answer what is right.”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.55", "lines": ["Then Siavash replied: “Cast off your fear;", "The Maker of the world is ever near."]}, {"id": "B9.48.56", "lines": ["I thought the king would greet me with esteem,", "And not destroy my honor through a scheme."]}, {"id": "B9.48.57", "lines": ["If wrath had filled the king and closed his heart,", "He would not grant me rule in any part,"]}, {"id": "B9.48.58", "lines": ["Nor grant me crown and province of my own,", "Nor give his daughter and a princely throne."]}, {"id": "B9.48.59", "lines": ["Nor grant me treasure, army, land, and state,", "If wrath and hatred truly marked my fate."]}, {"id": "B9.48.60", "lines": ["Now let us ride and free his heart from night,", "And make his darkened moon return to light."]}, {"id": "B9.48.61", "lines": ["Where truth shines clear, all falsehood fades away,", "And cannot stand against the light of day."]}, {"id": "B9.48.62", "lines": ["I will reveal my loyal heart as clear", "As is the sun when noon itself draws near."]}, {"id": "B9.48.63", "lines": ["Be glad; none flee the dragon’s fiery breath,", "Nor break the Maker’s decree of life and death.”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.64", "lines": ["But Garsivaz replied: “Wise prince, take heed,", "The king has changed in temper, thought, and deed."]}, {"id": "B9.48.65", "lines": ["When turning heaven wrinkles with a frown,", "Its circling wheel can bring the wisest down."]}, {"id": "B9.48.66", "lines": ["No wisdom finds a spell to break its ring,", "Or flee the fate its turning course may bring."]}, {"id": "B9.48.67", "lines": ["Though wisdom, stature, judgment dwell in you,", "No man escapes what hostile fate will do."]}, {"id": "B9.48.68", "lines": ["May no ill fortune ever cross your way,", "Yet none can turn what destiny may lay."]}, {"id": "B9.48.69", "lines": ["He used deceit to cloud your inward sight,", "And draw your judgment from the path of right."]}, {"id": "B9.48.70", "lines": ["When first he called you son-in-law in name,", "Your joy concealed the purpose of his game."]}, {"id": "B9.48.71", "lines": ["When he sent you to govern far away,", "He called his nobles to a feast that day;"]}, {"id": "B9.48.72", "lines": ["He hoped by gifts and feasting to beguile,", "And make you trust his favor and his smile."]}, {"id": "B9.48.73", "lines": ["Your bond with him is no more close or dear", "Than Aghriras’s blood-bond once was here."]}, {"id": "B9.48.74", "lines": ["His own blood brother could not soften him;", "At his command, Aghriras’s light grew dim."]}, {"id": "B9.48.75", "lines": ["He cut his kinsman down without remorse,", "And heaven itself recoiled before that course."]}, {"id": "B9.48.76", "lines": ["Now that his purpose stands revealed and bare,", "Trust not in blood when hatred rules the air."]}, {"id": "B9.48.77", "lines": ["Like the bright sun, I show you all I know;", "No hidden purpose lies beneath the show."]}, {"id": "B9.48.78", "lines": ["You left your father’s realm and crossed its bounds,", "And built your cities here on Turan’s grounds,"]}, {"id": "B9.48.79", "lines": ["And bore the burdens of a foreign state,", "And trusted words whose truth you learned too late."]}, {"id": "B9.48.80", "lines": ["This is the tree your own hand caused to grow,", "Whose poisoned fruit is all that it can show."]}, {"id": "B9.48.81", "lines": ["Its leaves are colocynth, bitter and dry;", "No sweetness ripens there beneath the sky.”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.82", "lines": ["He spoke with tears that masked his hidden aim,", "With sighs that cloaked the workings of his game."]}, {"id": "B9.48.83", "lines": ["But Siavash, sunk deep in grieving thought,", "Reflected on the path that fate had brought."]}, {"id": "B9.48.84", "lines": ["He feared that heaven’s grace might disappear,", "And life be cut before its destined year."]}, {"id": "B9.48.85", "lines": ["His cheeks grew pale, his heart sank in despair;", "He sighed beneath a weight he could not bear."]}, {"id": "B9.48.86", "lines": ["Then he replied: “No fault has marked my ways,", "That should deserve such harsh and bitter days."]}, {"id": "B9.48.87", "lines": ["No man has heard me err in word or deed,", "Nor found one wicked thought or selfish need."]}, {"id": "B9.48.88", "lines": ["If I have spent the treasure I received,", "Perhaps for this the king has been aggrieved."]}, {"id": "B9.48.89", "lines": ["But come what may, I will not turn aside,", "Nor rise against the king in wrath or pride."]}, {"id": "B9.48.90", "lines": ["Let me go now with you, without a force,", "And learn what turned the king from his old course."]}, {"id": "B9.48.91", "lines": ["I will discover what has turned his mind,", "And what dark counsel made his judgment blind.”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.92", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz replied: “O prince, take care;", "No wise man rushes toward a hidden snare."]}, {"id": "B9.48.93", "lines": ["Set not your foot where open fire will burn,", "Nor trust the sea-wave where no boat can turn."]}, {"id": "B9.48.94", "lines": ["You risk your life and all that you possess,", "And turn good fortune into deep distress."]}, {"id": "B9.48.95", "lines": ["Let me go first and serve you as your aid,", "And pour cold water where the fire is laid."]}, {"id": "B9.48.96", "lines": ["Instead, compose a letter full and plain,", "And set forth profit, peril, loss, and gain."]}, {"id": "B9.48.97", "lines": ["I trust the Maker, knower of the seen", "And hidden things, may turn his heart serene,"]}, {"id": "B9.48.98", "lines": ["May lead him back again toward what is right,", "And drive his crooked purpose out of sight."]}, {"id": "B9.48.99", "lines": ["If I should find the king in calmer mood,", "His wrath dissolved, his reason now renewed,"]}, {"id": "B9.48.100", "lines": ["I shall send word as swiftly as I may,", "And drive the fear within your heart away."]}, {"id": "B9.48.101", "lines": ["But if I find him harsh and fixed in hate,", "I shall send warning; do not pause or wait."]}, {"id": "B9.48.102", "lines": ["Then ready yourself quickly for the road;", "Do not prolong your danger or your load."]}, {"id": "B9.48.103", "lines": ["Ride out from here toward any friendly land,", "And seek some famous ruler’s guarding hand."]}, {"id": "B9.48.104", "lines": ["To Chin one hundred twenty farsangs lead;", "To Iran three hundred forty you will need."]}, {"id": "B9.48.105", "lines": ["On this side every chief remains your friend,", "And all who wish you well will still attend."]}, {"id": "B9.48.106", "lines": ["Beyond, your father longs to see your face,", "And Iran’s army holds you in embrace."]}, {"id": "B9.48.107", "lines": ["Send letters out to every chief you know;", "Stay ready, and make no delay to go.”"]}, {"id": "B9.48.108", "lines": ["Siavash believed each word that Garsivaz said;", "His wakeful soul fell fast asleep instead."]}, {"id": "B9.48.109", "lines": ["He answered, “I will follow your advice,", "And not depart from counsel you devise."]}, {"id": "B9.48.110", "lines": ["Go plead my cause before the king for me,", "And guide me rightly where my course should be.”"]}, {"id": "B9.49.1", "lines": ["A scribe was summoned to the prince’s side,", "And took the words that Siavash supplied."]}, {"id": "B9.49.2", "lines": ["He first invoked the great Creator’s name,", "Who frees His servant from all grief and pain."]}, {"id": "B9.49.3", "lines": ["He praised all wisdom, then addressed the king,", "And wrote the blessings royal letters bring:"]}, {"id": "B9.49.4", "lines": ["“O king whom fortune crowns with lasting praise,", "May time add glory to your length of days."]}, {"id": "B9.49.5", "lines": ["You summoned me; my heart rejoiced to hear,", "May Mobadan around your throne draw near."]}, {"id": "B9.49.6", "lines": ["You summoned Farangis, your daughter dear,", "And filled your heart with love and faith sincere."]}, {"id": "B9.49.7", "lines": ["But now she lies afflicted by disease,", "And cannot rise or find a moment’s ease."]}, {"id": "B9.49.8", "lines": ["Her illness keeps me at her bedside still;", "Between two worlds she lies, for good or ill."]}, {"id": "B9.49.9", "lines": ["Though all my heart still longs to see you near,", "Both realms are troubled now by grief and fear."]}, {"id": "B9.49.10", "lines": ["When she is healed and from her illness freed,", "She shall return and serve your royal need."]}, {"id": "B9.49.11", "lines": ["Her suffering alone delays my way;", "My heart shares all her sorrow day by day.”"]}, {"id": "B9.49.12", "lines": ["The prince then sealed the letter with his ring,", "And gave it to Garsivaz for the king."]}, {"id": "B9.49.13", "lines": ["He called for three swift horses, fleet and strong,", "And rode through night and day the road along."]}, {"id": "B9.49.14", "lines": ["In three short days he crossed the arduous way,", "Through rise and fall without a stop or stay."]}, {"id": "B9.49.15", "lines": ["Upon the fourth he reached Afrasiab’s seat,", "With evil soul and sinful tongue replete."]}, {"id": "B9.49.16", "lines": ["When Afrasiab saw him so distressed,", "He asked what urgent cause denied him rest:"]}, {"id": "B9.49.17", "lines": ["“Why have you come with such tremendous speed?", "What danger drives you on in urgent need?”"]}, {"id": "B9.49.18", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz replied: “When times grow dark,", "The wise depart before ill fortune’s mark."]}, {"id": "B9.49.19", "lines": ["Siavash gave no glance when I drew near,", "Nor rode along the road to greet me here."]}, {"id": "B9.49.20", "lines": ["He would not hear your words or heed my plea,", "Nor read the letter you had sent with me."]}, {"id": "B9.49.21", "lines": ["Before his throne he made me kneel in shame,", "While letters out of Iran daily came."]}, {"id": "B9.49.22", "lines": ["To us the gates of Siavash-Gard were barred,", "From Rum and Chin came armies; earth was jarred."]}, {"id": "B9.49.23", "lines": ["If you delay, the wind will mock your hand;", "He comes by war to seize both realm and land."]}, {"id": "B9.49.24", "lines": ["If Iranward he turns, who can withstand?", "I have warned you; weigh well what you have planned.”"]}, {"id": "B9.50.1", "lines": ["When Afrasiab heard the words just said,", "The fires of former wrath rose in his head."]}, {"id": "B9.50.2", "lines": ["His heart was fire, his head a raging gale,", "To Garsivaz he gave no answering tale."]}, {"id": "B9.50.3", "lines": ["He called for ney and cymbals sounding clear,", "For karnays, Indian bells for all to hear."]}, {"id": "B9.50.4", "lines": ["He left fair Gang, that paradise behind,", "The tree of vengeance freshened in his mind."]}, {"id": "B9.50.5", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz drew tight his stirrup band,", "And rode toward Siavash as he had planned."]}, {"id": "B9.50.6", "lines": ["Siavash sought Farangis in her room,", "His body trembling, face bereft of bloom."]}, {"id": "B9.50.7", "lines": ["Then Farangis cried out, “O lion bold,", "Why has your face grown pale, your color cold?”"]}, {"id": "B9.50.8", "lines": ["He answered: “Here in Turan I am shamed;", "My honor blackened, blameless name defamed."]}, {"id": "B9.50.9", "lines": ["I stand confused; no answer comes to mind,", "No road through this dark matter can I find."]}, {"id": "B9.50.10", "lines": ["If Garsivaz has spoken what is true,", "The compass-center is the share I drew.”"]}, {"id": "B9.50.11", "lines": ["Then Farangis in grief tore at her hair,", "And gashed her cheeks in anguish and despair."]}, {"id": "B9.50.12", "lines": ["Her coral cheeks ran red with blood and tears,", "Her heart burned hot with grief and rising fears."]}, {"id": "B9.50.13", "lines": ["Her tears like jewels crossed her silver breast,", "Between two tulips fell and came to rest."]}, {"id": "B9.50.14", "lines": ["She tore her hair and wept in bitter need,", "At Afrasiab’s every word and deed."]}, {"id": "B9.50.15", "lines": ["She said: “O king, what course will you pursue?", "Reveal the secret; tell me what is true."]}, {"id": "B9.50.16", "lines": ["My father’s heart against you now is set,", "And thoughts of Iran now you must forget."]}, {"id": "B9.50.17", "lines": ["Rum lies too far; its road would long detain,", "While Chin would bring you shame instead of gain."]}, {"id": "B9.50.18", "lines": ["Where can you turn for refuge in this plight?", "Yazdan of Sun and Moon must guide you right.”"]}, {"id": "B9.50.19", "lines": ["He said: “My friend Garsivaz soon will appear,", "With joyful news from Shah and court to hear."]}, {"id": "B9.50.20", "lines": ["His anger will subside, his heart relent,", "And vengeance fade as wrath itself is spent.”"]}, {"id": "B9.50.21", "lines": ["He trusted in the Just God as he said,", "While harsh fate filled his darkened heart with dread."]}, {"id": "B9.51.1", "lines": ["For three full days Siavash wept in pain,", "By fate betrayed, his grief he could not rein."]}, {"id": "B9.51.2", "lines": ["Upon the fourth night, as he slept in bed,", "Fair Farangis lay resting at his head."]}, {"id": "B9.51.3", "lines": ["He shuddered, rose in terror, no word said,", "Like a wild elephant, he cried in dread."]}, {"id": "B9.51.4", "lines": ["She clung to him and said in anxious fear:", "“O king, what grief has brought this terror here?”"]}, {"id": "B9.51.5", "lines": ["They lit the lamps; sweet oud perfumed the room,", "And ambergris burned fragrant through the gloom."]}, {"id": "B9.51.6", "lines": ["The lady asked again in troubled tone:", "“O prince, what vision has your spirit known?”"]}, {"id": "B9.51.7", "lines": ["He said: “Reveal this dream to none at all;", "Let silence keep its meaning from the hall."]}, {"id": "B9.51.8", "lines": ["I saw a river stretching far and wide,", "A fiery mountain rose on the other side."]}, {"id": "B9.51.9", "lines": ["And spearmen lined the water’s edge in rows,", "Along the bank their ordered ranks arose."]}, {"id": "B9.51.10", "lines": ["On one side raged a fire both fierce and high,", "That burned Siavash-Gard beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B9.51.11", "lines": ["Thus fire and water hemmed me in from flight,", "Afrasiab and his elephant in sight."]}, {"id": "B9.51.12", "lines": ["He watched me with a grim and hostile face,", "And blew upon the flames around that place.”"]}, {"id": "B9.51.13", "lines": ["The lady said: “This dream can bode no ill;", "Take heart tonight, and let your grief be still."]}, {"id": "B9.51.14", "lines": ["Ill fortune waits for Garsivaz in gloom,", "Beneath the Khan of Rum he meets his doom.”"]}, {"id": "B9.51.15", "lines": ["Then Siavash assembled all his band,", "Before the eyvan he had them take their stand."]}, {"id": "B9.51.16", "lines": ["He sat prepared, a khanjar in his hand,", "And sent a scout toward Gang across the land."]}, {"id": "B9.51.17", "lines": ["When two-thirds of the dark night had gone past,", "The scout returned: “The king’s array comes fast.”"]}, {"id": "B9.51.18", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz sent word without delay:", "“Prepare at once, nor let your forces stray."]}, {"id": "B9.51.19", "lines": ["My counsel failed; no good came of my plea;", "From fire I saw but smoke, dark as could be."]}, {"id": "B9.51.20", "lines": ["Consider now what course you ought to take,", "And where your army’s station you should make.”"]}, {"id": "B9.51.21", "lines": ["But Siavash saw no deceit concealed,", "And trusted all the counsel he revealed."]}, {"id": "B9.51.22", "lines": ["Then Farangis cried out: “O king, take heed;", "Think not of us, but mount your swiftest steed."]}, {"id": "B9.51.23", "lines": ["Trust not in Turan; no safety waits you here;", "I only wish to know you live, my dear."]}, {"id": "B9.51.24", "lines": ["Save your own life and ride without delay;", "Wait here for no one; take yourself away.”"]}, {"id": "B9.52.1", "lines": ["He said to Farangis: “My dream proves true;", "My water darkens as my fate comes due."]}, {"id": "B9.52.2", "lines": ["My life draws near its end; its span is brief,", "And now have come the bitter days of grief."]}, {"id": "B9.52.3", "lines": ["Though high my eyvan climbs to Saturn’s height,", "I still must drink death’s poison, lose the light."]}, {"id": "B9.52.4", "lines": ["Though twelve long hundred years our life should span, ", "Dark dust at last remains the home of man."]}, {"id": "B9.52.5", "lines": ["Some feed the prowling lions on the plain, ", "While kites and vultures tear among the slain."]}, {"id": "B9.52.6", "lines": ["No man of wisdom seeks for day at night,", "Or hopes that darkness will itself grow bright."]}, {"id": "B9.52.7", "lines": ["The fifth month now has come since seed was sown,", "A famous child within your womb has grown."]}, {"id": "B9.52.8", "lines": ["This tree of yours shall bear a royal king,", "And from its branch your consolation spring."]}, {"id": "B9.52.9", "lines": ["Name him Kay Khosrow when he comes to light,", "And let his presence ease your grieving plight."]}, {"id": "B9.52.10", "lines": ["From blazing sun down to the smallest speck, ", "To elephants with armor at the neck,"]}, {"id": "B9.52.11", "lines": ["From spring’s first source to Nile that meets the seas,", "None can escape what pure Yazdan decrees."]}, {"id": "B9.52.12", "lines": ["On Turan’s soil my hidden dust shall stay;", "No dust of mine in Iran shall men lay."]}, {"id": "B9.52.13", "lines": ["Who calls this ancient world still fresh and new,", "When turning skies present no constant view?"]}, {"id": "B9.52.14", "lines": ["My joyful fortune now has reached its end;", "The king’s wrath turns where once he stood my friend."]}, {"id": "B9.52.15", "lines": ["By your father’s command this guiltless head", "Shall fall, and blood shall stain my crown deep red."]}, {"id": "B9.52.16", "lines": ["No bier or shroud or mourners there shall be;", "No grave in death will close its earth on me."]}, {"id": "B9.52.17", "lines": ["A stranger in the dust I shall be laid,", "My head struck from my body by the blade."]}, {"id": "B9.52.18", "lines": ["And you, your head and body stripped and bare,", "Shall be led forth by guards in deep despair."]}, {"id": "B9.52.19", "lines": ["Then noble Piran will before him strive,", "And beg your father that you stay alive."]}, {"id": "B9.52.20", "lines": ["He then will lead you from that court away,", "And in his own eyvan will let you stay."]}, {"id": "B9.52.21", "lines": ["There shall you bear your son in sorrow’s hour,", "Young Kay Khosrow, destined for kingly power."]}, {"id": "B9.52.22", "lines": ["From Iran soon a deliverer shall rise,", "By the Creator’s command, prepared and wise."]}, {"id": "B9.52.23", "lines": ["He shall conduct you and your son from here,", "In secret to the Jihun flowing clear."]}, {"id": "B9.52.24", "lines": ["Your son shall sit upon the royal seat,", "And bird and fish obey him, far and fleet."]}, {"id": "B9.52.25", "lines": ["Iran shall march to vengeance for my blood,", "And shake the world beneath its battle-flood."]}, {"id": "B9.52.26", "lines": ["Such is the turning of the faithless sky,", "It binds no heart with love, but passes by."]}, {"id": "B9.52.27", "lines": ["How many iron-armored troops shall rise,", "To seek my vengeance under darkened skies!"]}, {"id": "B9.52.28", "lines": ["The whole world then shall thunder with a shout,", "And time shall boil when Kay Khosrow rides out."]}, {"id": "B9.52.29", "lines": ["Then Rakhsh shall trample earth in battle’s span,", "And Rostam count no Turanian a man."]}, {"id": "B9.52.30", "lines": ["From this day forth until the dead arise,", "My blood shall call for vengeance to the skies."]}, {"id": "B9.52.31", "lines": ["Then gorz and tempered blade alone shall reign,", "And vengeance for my blood shall fill the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B9.52.32", "lines": ["The noble hero turned and faced his bride,", "And spoke farewell with grief he could not hide:"]}, {"id": "B9.52.33", "lines": ["“My faithful wife, I now must go from you;", "Be strong, and let your courage bear you through."]}, {"id": "B9.52.34", "lines": ["Forget the throne and all its fleeting show,", "And hold my words wherever you may go.”"]}, {"id": "B9.52.35", "lines": ["He left the palace pale with grief and pain,", "And mourned the world where joy and loss remain."]}, {"id": "B9.52.36", "lines": ["“Why does this world raise what it means to break,", "And nurture life only its life to take?”"]}, {"id": "B9.52.37", "lines": ["The lady tore her cheeks and rent her hair,", "And wept in anguish deep beyond repair."]}, {"id": "B9.52.38", "lines": ["She clung to him; two streams ran from her eyes,", "And filled the hall with bitter sobs and cries."]}, {"id": "B9.52.39", "lines": ["He sought the stables of his noble steeds,", "And led out Behzad, famed for battle deeds."]}, {"id": "B9.52.40", "lines": ["Night-colored Behzad, swifter than the gale,", "On vengeance day would leave the wind to fail."]}, {"id": "B9.52.41", "lines": ["He groaned and pressed its head against his breast,", "Then loosed its bridle, halter, gave it rest."]}, {"id": "B9.52.42", "lines": ["He whispered counsel softly in its ear:", "“Stay wakeful-hearted; let no steed draw near."]}, {"id": "B9.52.43", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow shall rise to seek redress,", "Give him your reins and bear him through the press."]}, {"id": "B9.52.44", "lines": ["Leave now the stable; break from every chain,", "For you shall bear him on the vengeful plain."]}, {"id": "B9.52.45", "lines": ["Carry him forth; let terror spread ahead,", "And with your hoof sweep every foe in dread.”"]}, {"id": "B9.52.46", "lines": ["He hamstrung every other steed of fame, ", "Then set the stables and the reeds aflame."]}, {"id": "B9.52.47", "lines": ["His brocade, dinars, pearls of radiant glow, ", "Were cast into the roaring fire below;"]}, {"id": "B9.52.48", "lines": ["The crown, the helm, the sword, the royal belt, ", "Were given to the furnace, there to melt;"]}, {"id": "B9.52.49", "lines": ["The hoard was ashes, ruined and overturned, ", "While smoke from eyvan and rose-garden burned."]}, {"id": "B9.53.1", "lines": ["When all was done, he marched with chiefs aligned,", "Toward Iran, stunned by fate’s perverse design."]}, {"id": "B9.53.2", "lines": ["His cheeks were veiled by tears of blood-red hue,", "He mounted a rested steed and onward drew."]}, {"id": "B9.53.3", "lines": ["He bade the Iranians gird themselves to go,", "And turned toward Iran with hearts sunk low."]}, {"id": "B9.53.4", "lines": ["A farsang and a half he rode ahead,", "Then saw Afrasiab’s army widely spread."]}, {"id": "B9.53.5", "lines": ["Their ranks stood armed in jowshans on the field,", "With sword and gorz and every battle-shield."]}, {"id": "B9.53.6", "lines": ["He buckled on his jowshan; then he knew:", "“Garsivaz spoke the truth; the war is due.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.7", "lines": ["Then Siavash felt fear sting him like a knife,", "Yet would not hide himself to save his life."]}, {"id": "B9.53.8", "lines": ["He held his ground until the force drew near,", "And stood where all the gathering ranks could peer."]}, {"id": "B9.53.9", "lines": ["Each band looked on the other face to face,", "Though once no hatred stirred within that place."]}, {"id": "B9.53.10", "lines": ["The Turanian riders feared the prince’s hand,", "And checked their steeds before the waiting band."]}, {"id": "B9.53.11", "lines": ["The Iranians raised a ringing cry:", "“O king of kings, why should we tamely die?"]}, {"id": "B9.53.12", "lines": ["Why let them drag us helpless through the field?", "This is no trifle; honor must not yield."]}, {"id": "B9.53.13", "lines": ["Let them behold the strength our warriors bring,", "And learn the valor serving Iran’s king.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.14", "lines": ["But Siavash replied: “This fight has no just ground;", "No rightful cause for battle can be found."]}, {"id": "B9.53.15", "lines": ["To war against my sovereign brings disgrace,", "And stains the honor of my ancient race."]}, {"id": "B9.53.16", "lines": ["The turning sky is bent on my defeat;", "Though innocent, I fall through dark deceit."]}, {"id": "B9.53.17", "lines": ["I cannot strike in bold attack today;", "No man can stand where God has barred the way."]}, {"id": "B9.53.18", "lines": ["The sage has said in counsel firm and true:", "‘Do not resist when fortune turns on you.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.19", "lines": ["Then Siavash addressed the Turan king:", "“O noble lord, whose virtues brightly ring,"]}, {"id": "B9.53.20", "lines": ["Why bring your armies forth to threaten me?", "What wrong in all my service do you see?"]}, {"id": "B9.53.21", "lines": ["Such war will plunge both realms in deep unrest,", "And fill the world with grief from east to west.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.22", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz replied in scornful tone:", "“Do such soft words become a prince well known?"]}, {"id": "B9.53.23", "lines": ["If you are guiltless, why come clad in steel", "Before your king? Such acts your guilt reveal."]}, {"id": "B9.53.24", "lines": ["No man receives his sovereign dressed for strife,", "With bow and jowshan, armed to guard his life.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.25", "lines": ["Then Siavash replied: “Your words untrue", "Have led me from the path I should pursue."]}, {"id": "B9.53.26", "lines": ["O base revenge-seeker, false at heart,", "To stir the Shah has always been your art."]}, {"id": "B9.53.27", "lines": ["You told me that the king was filled with hate;", "Now thousands of the guiltless share my fate."]}, {"id": "B9.53.28", "lines": ["The seed you sowed will ripen into fruit;", "Your punishment will spring from that same root."]}, {"id": "B9.53.29", "lines": ["Your words misled me, brought the Shah to rage,", "And innocent heads must pay your vengeance’s wage.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.30", "lines": ["Then to the king he said: “Hold back your hand;", "Do not spill guiltless blood throughout the land. "]}, {"id": "B9.53.31", "lines": ["To shed the innocent brings lasting shame;", "Do not condemn both kingdoms to the same. "]}, {"id": "B9.53.32", "lines": ["Do not cast Turan and yourself aside", "Because one traitor turned your heart from right.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.33", "lines": ["But Garsivaz, whose heart was false and cold,", "Grew fiercer as the prince his plea retold,"]}, {"id": "B9.53.34", "lines": ["And cried aloud: “O king, what makes you stay?", "Why parley now? Let action rule the day.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.35", "lines": ["The high sun rose while Afrasiab heard,", "And Garsivaz still pressed each bitter word."]}, {"id": "B9.53.36", "lines": ["He ordered all his men to draw their blades,", "Their cry like Judgment thundered through the glades."]}, {"id": "B9.53.37", "lines": ["But Siavash kept faith with solemn vow;", "No sword was raised, no spear was leveled now."]}, {"id": "B9.53.38", "lines": ["Nor did he let a single man advance", "To strike the foe or take a hostile stance."]}, {"id": "B9.53.39", "lines": ["Then cruel Afrasiab gave command", "To bring fierce ruin on that Iranian band:"]}, {"id": "B9.53.40", "lines": ["“Strike every warrior down beneath the sword,", "And let their blood across the plain be poured.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.41", "lines": ["A thousand and more Iranians formed the throng,", "All proven warriors, steadfast, battle-strong. "]}, {"id": "B9.53.42", "lines": ["They all were struck and wounded in the strife,", "Turanian blades deprived them all of life."]}, {"id": "B9.53.43", "lines": ["Yet none among the Turanians dared draw near,", "Or lay a hand upon the prince through fear."]}, {"id": "B9.53.44", "lines": ["Then fifty, sixty arrows crossed the air,", "From every side they struck him without care."]}, {"id": "B9.53.45", "lines": ["Amid the clash, the prince fell from his steed,", "His wounds from sword and spear had made him bleed."]}, {"id": "B9.53.46", "lines": ["He rolled upon dark earth as drunk with pain,", "Then Gurvi Zereh bound him on the plain."]}, {"id": "B9.53.47", "lines": ["A halter round his neck was fastened tight,", "His hands behind him bound with all their might."]}, {"id": "B9.53.48", "lines": ["Blood streamed along his cheeks, once bright as bloom;", "He had not known so dark and harsh a doom."]}, {"id": "B9.53.49", "lines": ["The guards then drove him onward on his feet,", "With troops around him closing ranks complete."]}, {"id": "B9.53.50", "lines": ["They led him toward the city he had made,", "Toward Siavash-Gard, now lost and betrayed."]}, {"id": "B9.53.51", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab commanded them: “Go", "And drag him from the road before the foe."]}, {"id": "B9.53.52", "lines": ["On barren rock where not a blade has grown,", "Cut off his head where grass has never shown."]}, {"id": "B9.53.53", "lines": ["Let his blood pour upon the burning ground;", "Delay no more, nor let your fear be found."]}, {"id": "B9.53.54", "lines": ["Perform the deed; let no compassion stay;", "Strike with the khanjar, take his life away.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.55", "lines": ["The soldiers said: “What fault have you discerned?", "What wrong of his has such a sentence earned?"]}, {"id": "B9.53.56", "lines": ["What has he done that merits such a flood?", "Why wash your hands within his guiltless blood?"]}, {"id": "B9.53.57", "lines": ["The crown and ivory throne would mourn his fate;", "Why plant a seed whose fruit will ripen hate?"]}, {"id": "B9.53.58", "lines": ["In days of peace sow not such poisoned seed,", "Whose fruit must ripen into grief and need.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.59", "lines": ["But Garsivaz, consumed by bitter spite,", "Stood with the killers, urging them to smite."]}, {"id": "B9.53.60", "lines": ["The old resentment burned within his breast,", "And Siavash’s blood alone would give him rest."]}, {"id": "B9.53.61", "lines": ["Then Pilsam, Piran’s younger brother, rose,", "A thoughtful warrior skilled among his foes."]}, {"id": "B9.53.62", "lines": ["With measured voice and disciplined command,", "He urged the Shah to judge with steady hand:"]}, {"id": "B9.53.63", "lines": ["“This branch will yield no fruit but pain and grief;", "I heard the sages teach a wiser belief."]}, {"id": "B9.53.64", "lines": ["A calm heart seldom bears remorseful care;", "Wise counsel heals the troubled mind’s despair."]}, {"id": "B9.53.65", "lines": ["Haste and evil are Ahriman’s way;", "Remorse of soul and body-pain will stay."]}, {"id": "B9.53.66", "lines": ["It is not right to strike your subject dead,", "And swiftly sever such a royal head."]}, {"id": "B9.53.67", "lines": ["Bind him and keep him till the passing days", "Have taught you what is hidden in these ways."]}, {"id": "B9.53.68", "lines": ["When wisdom’s wind has cooled your troubled mind,", "Then judge what fate his head and life should find."]}, {"id": "B9.53.69", "lines": ["Do not act rashly; haste brings later woe,", "And seeds regret wherever passions grow."]}, {"id": "B9.53.70", "lines": ["Do not cut down a head fit for a crown,", "Nor cast a future ruler lifeless down."]}, {"id": "B9.53.71", "lines": ["If without cause you strike this guiltless head,", "King Kavus will venge him when he is dead."]}, {"id": "B9.53.72", "lines": ["And Rostam, who has raised him with his care,", "Will rise for vengeance, terrible to dare."]}, {"id": "B9.53.73", "lines": ["Remember that keen diamond-edged blade,", "By which the world may be in ruin laid."]}, {"id": "B9.53.74", "lines": ["Recall Iran’s great chiefs, whose battle-cries", "Have shaken earth beneath the wheeling skies."]}, {"id": "B9.53.75", "lines": ["Think of Fariborz of the royal line,", "Whose courage in the field will brightly shine."]}, {"id": "B9.53.76", "lines": ["Think of great Rostam, lion in attack,", "Before whose charge whole armies stagger back."]}, {"id": "B9.53.77", "lines": ["Then Gudarz, Gorgin, Farhad, Tus the bold,", "Will rise in wrath, a vengeance none can hold."]}, {"id": "B9.53.78", "lines": ["The plains will fill with spearmen rank on rank,", "Till all Turan recoils before their flank."]}, {"id": "B9.53.79", "lines": ["Not I, nor all your armies tried and true,", "Could face the wrath that Iran would pursue."]}, {"id": "B9.53.80", "lines": ["Soon Piran too will come at break of day,", "And you will hear what he has yet to say."]}, {"id": "B9.53.81", "lines": ["No urgent cause compels this fatal deed;", "Do not sow vengeance through the world as seed."]}, {"id": "B9.53.82", "lines": ["Delay this act, for haste will surely bring", "The fall and ruin of your realm, O king.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.83", "lines": ["These words moved Afrasiab to reflect,", "And made him pause before the deed took effect."]}, {"id": "B9.53.84", "lines": ["But Garsivaz, still shameless, hard of heart,", "Pressed him once more to end what he did start:"]}, {"id": "B9.53.85", "lines": ["“Do not abandon what you have begun", "Because a youth has spoken, princely one."]}, {"id": "B9.53.86", "lines": ["The plain is filled with vultures feeding still", "On Iran’s dead, all struck down by your will."]}, {"id": "B9.53.87", "lines": ["If vengeance frightens you, enough is slain;", "The blood already spilled should ease that pain."]}, {"id": "B9.53.88", "lines": ["From Rum and Chin, both sword and gorz shall rise,", "And battle’s violence spread before all eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.53.89", "lines": ["Was not the wrong you wrought already great?", "Why heed each counsel now and hesitate?"]}, {"id": "B9.53.90", "lines": ["You cut the serpent’s tail and wounded head;", "Will you now clothe it richly in diba instead?"]}, {"id": "B9.53.91", "lines": ["If you should spare him, I will leave this land", "And die in exile, far from your command.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.92", "lines": ["Then Damur came, with Gurvi Zereh near,", "Both shaken still, but speaking without fear:"]}, {"id": "B9.53.93", "lines": ["“Do not delay because of one man’s fate;", "To hesitate now would be far too late."]}, {"id": "B9.53.94", "lines": ["Attend instead to Garsivaz’s plea,", "And strike your foe before he can break free."]}, {"id": "B9.53.95", "lines": ["You set the trap and took him in your hand;", "Now strike at once and let your purpose stand."]}, {"id": "B9.53.96", "lines": ["The head of Iran now rests in your power;", "Break hostile hearts before the changing hour."]}, {"id": "B9.53.97", "lines": ["His army lies destroyed; judge, and beware", "What course the Shah should follow in this snare."]}, {"id": "B9.53.98", "lines": ["Had no first wrong been laid upon his name,", "Then water still might wash away this shame."]}, {"id": "B9.53.99", "lines": ["Now better that he nowhere live at all,", "In open sight or hidden beyond call.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.100", "lines": ["The king replied: “No treason do I see;", "No crime that calls for death appears to me."]}, {"id": "B9.53.101", "lines": ["Yet seers have warned that danger still may rise,", "And through this man bring grief before my eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.53.102", "lines": ["If I should shed his blood, from Turan’s plain", "A cloud of dust will rise like darkened rain."]}, {"id": "B9.53.103", "lines": ["That dust will veil the sun and dim our view,", "And cloud the judgment of the wisest too."]}, {"id": "B9.53.104", "lines": ["Pain, grief, and bondage wait for us ahead;", "Yet freeing him may bring worse harm instead."]}, {"id": "B9.53.105", "lines": ["Though killing him will weigh upon my mind,", "To let him live may prove a worse design.”"]}, {"id": "B9.53.106", "lines": ["No sage nor schemer knows what fate may send,", "Or where the turning heavens mean to bend."]}, {"id": "B9.54.1", "lines": ["The news reached Farangis; her cheek she tore,", "A bloodied zunnar round her waist she wore."]}, {"id": "B9.54.2", "lines": ["On foot she came, her moon-bright face blood-stained,", "By grief and terror all her beauty waned."]}, {"id": "B9.54.3", "lines": ["In trembling fear she came before the throne,", "And cast dust on her head with anguished moan."]}, {"id": "B9.54.4", "lines": ["She cried: “O king, whose name the wise proclaim,", "Why bring me down to sorrow, grief, and shame?"]}, {"id": "B9.54.5", "lines": ["Why bind your heart in fraud and dark deceit?", "From such a height, do you not see defeat?"]}, {"id": "B9.54.6", "lines": ["Do not strike down a guiltless monarch’s head;", "The Judge of Sun and Moon sees blood you shed."]}, {"id": "B9.54.7", "lines": ["When Siavash left Iran to seek your aid,", "He praised you to the Maker as he prayed."]}, {"id": "B9.54.8", "lines": ["He angered Kavus, left his crown and gold,", "And sought your court as refuge and stronghold."]}, {"id": "B9.54.9", "lines": ["What fault have you perceived in him that you", "Now turn from justice and from what is due?"]}, {"id": "B9.54.10", "lines": ["Who severs from a king his crowned head", "Will not sit long where royal carpets spread."]}, {"id": "B9.54.11", "lines": ["Do not wrong me as well, for life is brief;", "This passing world is only wind and grief."]}, {"id": "B9.54.12", "lines": ["One guiltless man is cast into a pit,", "While guilty men on royal thrones may sit."]}, {"id": "B9.54.13", "lines": ["But both at last lie level in the clay,", "Within the darkened grave they fade away."]}, {"id": "B9.54.14", "lines": ["Do not become the mockery of men", "Through Garsivaz, whose poisoned words condemn."]}, {"id": "B9.54.15", "lines": ["You know how Zahhak’s pride was overthrown,", "When Fereydoon rose up to claim the throne."]}, {"id": "B9.54.16", "lines": ["And how Manuchehr, for old blood repaid,", "Brought Salm and Tur to ruin by the blade."]}, {"id": "B9.54.17", "lines": ["Great Zal and Rostam still beneath him stand,", "To seek redress with vengeance in their hand."]}, {"id": "B9.54.18", "lines": ["When Gudarz swings his gorz amid the fight,", "Lion-heart and leopard-hide are torn outright."]}, {"id": "B9.54.19", "lines": ["Then Bahram, Zangeh, Shavaran’s brave pair,", "Fear not the blades that warriors proudly bear."]}, {"id": "B9.54.20", "lines": ["And Giv, whose charge makes all the earth resound,", "Before whose onset proudest ranks lose ground."]}, {"id": "B9.54.21", "lines": ["For Siavash the waters shall wear black,", "And heaven’s curse shall follow on your track."]}, {"id": "B9.54.22", "lines": ["In this you wound yourself with reckless pride;", "My words will echo long on every side."]}, {"id": "B9.54.23", "lines": ["You do not chase Gur-e-Khar through the plain,", "Nor hunt the antelope for sport or gain."]}, {"id": "B9.54.24", "lines": ["You tear a sovereign from his royal seat;", "The Sun and Moon shall curse so dark a feat."]}, {"id": "B9.54.25", "lines": ["Do not cast Turan’s kingdom to the gale;", "You may yet live to mourn this bloody tale.”"]}, {"id": "B9.54.26", "lines": ["As she spoke on, she saw him bound in shame,", "And tore her cheeks while calling out his name:"]}, {"id": "B9.54.27", "lines": ["“O king, you left Iran with trusting mind,", "And thought a father’s shelter you would find."]}, {"id": "B9.54.28", "lines": ["Yet now you walk on foot with shackled hands;", "Where are your crown, your throne, your high commands?"]}, {"id": "B9.54.29", "lines": ["Where are the vows that bound the king so tight,", "That made the turning moon and heaven shake with fright?"]}, {"id": "B9.54.30", "lines": ["Where now is Kavus with his royal train?", "Could he but see you bound in grief and pain?"]}, {"id": "B9.54.31", "lines": ["Where Rostam, Tus, and Giv, that fearless band,", "And Zal and Faramarz of Iran’s land?"]}, {"id": "B9.54.32", "lines": ["The tale will reach Iran and stir the state,", "And shake the Shahanshah’s throne beneath its weight."]}, {"id": "B9.54.33", "lines": ["Through Garsivaz this ruin fell on you;", "Curse Damur, Gurvi Zereh with him too!"]}, {"id": "B9.54.34", "lines": ["Whoever lifts a hand to do you harm,", "May ruin strike his head and break his arm."]}, {"id": "B9.54.35", "lines": ["May God grant ease to you in this dark hour,", "And break your enemies and crush their power."]}, {"id": "B9.54.36", "lines": ["Would that my eyes had closed before this day,", "Before I saw you bound and dragged away."]}, {"id": "B9.54.37", "lines": ["How could I think my father would deprive", "My arms of him who made my heart alive?”"]}, {"id": "B9.54.38", "lines": ["The king then heard his daughter’s anguished cries,", "And all the world grew black before his eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.54.39", "lines": ["He said: “Go back; remain no longer in my way;", "You do not know what I intend today.”"]}, {"id": "B9.54.40", "lines": ["His heart ached for her, hearing every cry,", "Yet reason’s eye he closed and passed her by."]}, {"id": "B9.54.41", "lines": ["Within the lofty palace, out of view,", "There stood a room Farangis never knew."]}, {"id": "B9.54.42", "lines": ["He ordered guards to seize her in her grief,", "And drag her senseless, giving no relief."]}, {"id": "B9.54.43", "lines": ["They cast her in that chamber, shut away,", "Then barred the door and left her there to stay."]}, {"id": "B9.55.1", "lines": ["Garsivaz cast a glance that Gurvi knew,", "And Gurvi toward the captive prince then drew."]}, {"id": "B9.55.2", "lines": ["In Gurvi shame and chivalry were dead,", "And mercy from his savage spirit fled."]}, {"id": "B9.55.3", "lines": ["He seized his hair and dragged him through the dust,", "While Siavash raised his voice in prayer and trust:"]}, {"id": "B9.55.4", "lines": ["“O Lord beyond all place, all time, all change,", "Let not my line be lost in lands so strange."]}, {"id": "B9.55.5", "lines": ["Let from my seed a radiant branch arise,", "A son whose glory shines beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B9.55.6", "lines": ["Let him avenge the wrongs that here are done,", "And make my name renewed beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B9.55.7", "lines": ["Beneath his feet let all the world be laid,", "And let true manhood through his deeds be displayed.”"]}, {"id": "B9.55.8", "lines": ["Behind them Pilsam followed, sick with dread,", "His eyes ran blood; his grieving heart seemed dead."]}, {"id": "B9.55.9", "lines": ["The prince cried out: “Farewell; go with my prayer,", "And take to Piran word of my despair."]}, {"id": "B9.55.10", "lines": ["Go speak to Piran; tell him what you see:", "‘The world has turned from all it promised me."]}, {"id": "B9.55.11", "lines": ["My hope in Piran scattered, fled, and died;", "Like willow now I tremble, terrified."]}, {"id": "B9.55.12", "lines": ["He promised horsemen, armored rank on rank,", "A hundred thousand strong upon my flank,"]}, {"id": "B9.55.13", "lines": ["To stand beside me when my fortune turned,", "And aid me when the fires of danger burned."]}, {"id": "B9.55.14", "lines": ["But now on foot before Garsivaz I go,", "Abased and dark of heart beneath this woe."]}, {"id": "B9.55.15", "lines": ["No grieving friend remains beside me here,", "No voice to mourn me as my death draws near.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.55.16", "lines": ["Beyond the city and the army’s line,", "They dragged him bound where fate had set its sign."]}, {"id": "B9.55.17", "lines": ["Then Gurvi Zereh took Garsivaz’s blade,", "A water-colored khanjar keenly made."]}, {"id": "B9.55.18", "lines": ["He dragged the prince by hair across the plain,", "Back to the place where shafts had flown like rain."]}, {"id": "B9.55.19", "lines": ["There they had bent the bow and loosed the dart,", "And tested eye and hand and archer’s art."]}, {"id": "B9.55.20", "lines": ["There Gurvi Zereh threw the prince below,", "The raging elephant laid helpless low."]}, {"id": "B9.55.21", "lines": ["No shame or fear restrained his savage hand;", "A golden basin waited on the sand."]}, {"id": "B9.55.22", "lines": ["He turned the prince as shepherds turn a sheep,", "Then struck the fatal stroke, both sure and deep."]}, {"id": "B9.55.23", "lines": ["The silver cypress fell beneath the sun,", "His blood poured dark; his living grace was done."]}, {"id": "B9.55.24", "lines": ["The basin filled; then Gurvi Zereh bore", "The blood to where the king had marked before."]}, {"id": "B9.55.25", "lines": ["He overturned it on the appointed ground,", "Where barren earth lay silent all around."]}, {"id": "B9.55.26", "lines": ["At once a plant sprang from that bloody seed,", "A living witness to the brutal deed."]}, {"id": "B9.55.27", "lines": ["They call it Blood of Siavash to this day,", "A sign no passing age can sweep away."]}, {"id": "B9.55.28", "lines": ["When life withdrew from that now fallen frame,", "And silence closed upon his lifeless name,"]}, {"id": "B9.55.29", "lines": ["He sank in sleep no morning could dispel,", "Where neither dawn nor waking radiance fell."]}, {"id": "B9.55.30", "lines": ["A black wind rose, and dust obscured the sky,", "And veiled the sun and moon from every eye."]}, {"id": "B9.55.31", "lines": ["No man could see the face beside his own,", "So thick the dark across the world had grown."]}, {"id": "B9.55.32", "lines": ["Then all cursed Gurvi Zereh’s hated name,", "And branded his cruelty with lasting shame."]}, {"id": "B9.55.33", "lines": ["The royal throne stood empty and alone;", "No moon, no sun, no cypress near it shone."]}, {"id": "B9.55.34", "lines": ["I turn to left and right, yet all is blind;", "No head nor foot of this world can I find."]}, {"id": "B9.55.35", "lines": ["One man does wrong yet prospers in his way,", "And claims the world as though it were his prey;"]}, {"id": "B9.55.36", "lines": ["Another walks in truth and measured light,", "Yet fades away in sorrow and in blight."]}, {"id": "B9.55.37", "lines": ["Release your soul from care that binds it fast,", "And let the grief of passing things be past."]}, {"id": "B9.55.38", "lines": ["For all things shift; no form can long endure,", "And nothing fashioned here remains secure."]}, {"id": "B9.55.39", "lines": ["One truth remains for all beneath the sky:", "Whatever lives must one day fade and die."]}, {"id": "B9.55.40", "lines": ["A cry arose within Siavash’s hall,", "And rage at Garsivaz consumed them all."]}, {"id": "B9.55.41", "lines": ["The servants tore their hair in wild despair,", "And Farangis cut through her perfumed hair."]}, {"id": "B9.55.42", "lines": ["She wound it round her waist and struck her face,", "And cursed her father in that shattered place."]}, {"id": "B9.55.43", "lines": ["The moon-faced women loosed their hair to flow,", "And scratched their cheeks in anguish and in woe."]}, {"id": "B9.55.44", "lines": ["When word of all her grieving reached the king,", "He ordered Garsivaz to do this thing:"]}, {"id": "B9.55.45", "lines": ["“Drag her by hair beyond the curtain’s shade,", "And give her to the guards who stand arrayed."]}, {"id": "B9.55.46", "lines": ["Strip off her veil and beat her without delay,", "Till vengeance’s seed falls on Turan’s clay."]}, {"id": "B9.55.47", "lines": ["No root or branch, no leaf or fruit shall grow", "From him within the land I rule below.”"]}, {"id": "B9.55.48", "lines": ["At these harsh words the nobles cursed the king,", "And raised a cry that made the palace ring:"]}, {"id": "B9.55.49", "lines": ["“No king, no counselor, no army band", "Has ever heard or given such command.”"]}, {"id": "B9.55.50", "lines": ["Then Pilsam came, both cheeks with blood made red,", "His soul was scarred, his grieving heart half-dead."]}, {"id": "B9.55.51", "lines": ["He found Lahhak and Farshidvard in grief,", "And spoke of pain that offered no relief:"]}, {"id": "B9.55.52", "lines": ["“Even hell itself is better than this throne;", "No rest remains where cruelty has grown."]}, {"id": "B9.55.53", "lines": ["We must ride now to Piran without rest,", "And share the captive grief that fills each breast.”"]}, {"id": "B9.55.54", "lines": ["They saddled then three horses swift and strong,", "The earth seemed rolled beneath them all along."]}, {"id": "B9.55.55", "lines": ["These riders came at last to Piran’s place,", "With blood-stained cheeks and anguish on each face."]}, {"id": "B9.55.56", "lines": ["They told him how the Shah had planted ill,", "And laid the root of evil by his will."]}, {"id": "B9.55.57", "lines": ["Piran heard all, fell senseless from his throne,", "As though the life within him too had flown."]}, {"id": "B9.55.58", "lines": ["He rent his robe and cast dust on his head,", "And pulled his hair in anguish for the dead."]}, {"id": "B9.55.59", "lines": ["He cried: “Alas, fit wearer of the crown of gold!", "No ivory throne your equal shall behold.”"]}, {"id": "B9.55.60", "lines": ["Then Pilsam said: “Make haste, delay no more,", "Or greater grief than this will reach our door.”"]}, {"id": "B9.55.61", "lines": ["Meanwhile Farangis from the throne was torn,", "Her body like a tree in tempest borne."]}, {"id": "B9.55.62", "lines": ["Dishonored, crying out in grief and fear,", "They dragged her toward the killers waiting near."]}, {"id": "B9.55.63", "lines": ["They gave her to the guards, those men of death,", "As she cried out and struggled for her breath."]}, {"id": "B9.56.1", "lines": ["When Piran heard, he rose in furious flame,", "And from his lips a roar of anger came."]}, {"id": "B9.56.2", "lines": ["He brought ten tested chargers from the stall,", "And had them bridled swiftly, one and all."]}, {"id": "B9.56.3", "lines": ["With Ruyin and Farshidvard he sped,", "And clouds of dust rose thick where hoofbeats led."]}, {"id": "B9.56.4", "lines": ["Two days and nights they drove through dust and heat,", "Until they reached the royal judgment-seat."]}, {"id": "B9.56.5", "lines": ["There by the gate he saw the guards of death,", "And Farangis dragged on with failing breath."]}, {"id": "B9.56.6", "lines": ["The guards stood armed; the palace rang with cries,", "While grief and terror filled the watching eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.56.7", "lines": ["Each heart was filled with anguish at the deed,", "Each eye with tears for what the king decreed."]}, {"id": "B9.56.8", "lines": ["Then people thronged, the women, men, and young,", "And outrage and despair were on each tongue:"]}, {"id": "B9.56.9", "lines": ["“This act is savage, past all law and name,", "A deed that brands the throne with endless shame."]}, {"id": "B9.56.10", "lines": ["To strike down Farangis in such a way", "Will break the crown and sweep its rule away.”"]}, {"id": "B9.56.11", "lines": ["At that same moment Piran came in view,", "And through the court a breath of courage grew."]}, {"id": "B9.56.12", "lines": ["When Farangis beheld him through her fears,", "Her moon-bright face was lost in blood and tears."]}, {"id": "B9.56.13", "lines": ["She cried: “You left me living in this flame!", "Why was I spared to suffer such a shame?”"]}, {"id": "B9.56.14", "lines": ["From off his horse Piran fell to the ground,", "And tore his Pahlevan robe, grief unbound."]}, {"id": "B9.56.15", "lines": ["He bade the guards suspend the king’s decree,", "Then sought the Shah at once to make his plea."]}, {"id": "B9.56.16", "lines": ["His heart was wounded, tears obscured his sight,", "He faced Afrasiab and spoke outright:"]}, {"id": "B9.56.17", "lines": ["“O king, may fortune long sustain your reign,", "And keep your house secure from grief or pain."]}, {"id": "B9.56.18", "lines": ["What evil force has turned your heart from right,", "And filled your mind with this desire to smite?"]}, {"id": "B9.56.19", "lines": ["Why has the Div’s counsel then won your mind,", "And fear of God been wholly cast behind?"]}, {"id": "B9.56.20", "lines": ["You slew Siavash, guiltless of all blame,", "And cast to dust his rank and royal name."]}, {"id": "B9.56.21", "lines": ["The tale will reach Iran; beside the throne,", "The Shahanshah and court shall grieve and moan."]}, {"id": "B9.56.22", "lines": ["Then crowned chiefs will rise with armies vast,", "To seek his blood and make your sorrow last."]}, {"id": "B9.56.23", "lines": ["The world lay calm, and justice ruled it whole,", "And God’s clear path stood open to each soul,"]}, {"id": "B9.56.24", "lines": ["Till from deep hell a false deceiver came,", "And wounded your heart with its infernal flame."]}, {"id": "B9.56.25", "lines": ["Accursed Ahriman who led you wrong,", "And turned your road to evil all along."]}, {"id": "B9.56.26", "lines": ["You will repent through years of inward grief,", "And bear in secret shame beyond relief."]}, {"id": "B9.56.27", "lines": ["I do not know whose words have bent your will,", "Nor what the great Creator purposes still."]}, {"id": "B9.56.28", "lines": ["With Siavash slain, your rage now strikes your blood,", "Your daughter and your kin through wrath’s dark flood."]}, {"id": "B9.56.29", "lines": ["Like one gone mad, you rise to wrong and spread", "Fresh evil on the blood already shed."]}, {"id": "B9.56.30", "lines": ["She seeks no crown, no treasure, and no throne,", "No royal seat or fortune of her own."]}, {"id": "B9.56.31", "lines": ["Because a child lies hidden in her frame,", "Do not become the world’s own badge of shame."]}, {"id": "B9.56.32", "lines": ["While living, curses cling upon your name;", "In death, the fires of hell shall be your claim."]}, {"id": "B9.56.33", "lines": ["If you would grant me peace, then hear my plea,", "Entrust Farangis and leave her with me."]}, {"id": "B9.56.34", "lines": ["If all your fear concerns the child she bears,", "That grief is small; put by these killing cares."]}, {"id": "B9.56.35", "lines": ["Wait only till the hour of birth is through;", "I will bring the child and leave its fate to you.”"]}, {"id": "B9.56.36", "lines": ["The king replied: “Then do as you have said;", "Your words have spared the need to see her dead.”"]}, {"id": "B9.56.37", "lines": ["Piran rejoiced and shook off sorrow’s weight,", "Then hurried off to find her at the gate."]}, {"id": "B9.56.38", "lines": ["He freed Farangis from the guards’ array,", "And sharply drove the murderous men away."]}, {"id": "B9.56.39", "lines": ["He led her safe to Khutan’s distant plain,", "While court and hall cried out in grief and pain."]}, {"id": "B9.56.40", "lines": ["Once home, to Golshahr Piran whispered low:", "“Keep Farangis concealed, and let none know."]}, {"id": "B9.56.41", "lines": ["Once from the Shah’s attention she is freed,", "I will devise the remedy we need."]}, {"id": "B9.56.42", "lines": ["Attend her like a nurse until the birth,", "And guard the child she carries to the earth.”"]}, {"id": "B9.56.43", "lines": ["Some days went by; her burden heavier grew,", "As time advanced and childbirth nearer drew."]}, {"id": "B9.57.1", "lines": ["One moonless night, when birds and beasts lay still,", "And cattle slept beneath the darkness chill,"]}, {"id": "B9.57.2", "lines": ["Piran beheld within a vivid dream", "A candle kindled from the solar beam."]}, {"id": "B9.57.3", "lines": ["Beside it Siavash stood, sword in hand,", "And called to Piran with a firm command:"]}, {"id": "B9.57.4", "lines": ["“Shake off sweet sleep and rise without delay;", "Consider what the world will bring this day."]}, {"id": "B9.57.5", "lines": ["A new day dawns, a feast of royal birth;", "Tonight Kay Khosrow comes to life on earth!”"]}, {"id": "B9.57.6", "lines": ["The chieftain woke and cast off slumber deep;", "Golshahr arose, awakened from her sleep."]}, {"id": "B9.57.7", "lines": ["He said: “Arise, delay no moment more;", "Attend on Farangis and seek her door."]}, {"id": "B9.57.8", "lines": ["I saw Siavash shining in a dream,", "Outshining moon and sun in sovereign gleam."]}, {"id": "B9.57.9", "lines": ["He cried: ‘Awake! To Kay Khosrow’s feast bring", "Your joy and greet the birth of this new king.’”"]}, {"id": "B9.57.10", "lines": ["Golshahr ran swiftly to the queen and saw", "The newborn prince, and stood transfixed with awe."]}, {"id": "B9.57.11", "lines": ["She cried with joy that echoed through the dome,", "Then breathless ran to Piran in his home:"]}, {"id": "B9.57.12", "lines": ["“The moon and sun seem joined in this one child;", "Come see what power the Maker has compiled."]}, {"id": "B9.57.13", "lines": ["The Maker’s wisdom shines in every sign;", "He lacks but crown, and helm, and jowshan’s shine.”"]}, {"id": "B9.57.14", "lines": ["Then Piran came and looked upon the boy,", "And praised Yazdan with reverence and joy."]}, {"id": "B9.57.15", "lines": ["So well proportioned were his limbs and frame,", "No newborn child had ever seemed the same."]}, {"id": "B9.57.16", "lines": ["He seemed a child already one year grown,", "So firm his limbs, so strong in flesh and bone."]}, {"id": "B9.57.17", "lines": ["Then Piran wept to hear Siavash’s name,", "And cursed Afrasiab for lasting shame."]}, {"id": "B9.57.18", "lines": ["He spoke before the nobles gathered near:", "“Though it should cost my life, I make this clear:"]}, {"id": "B9.57.19", "lines": ["I will not yield this child into his hand,", "Though I be cast to nahang at his command!”"]}, {"id": "B9.57.20", "lines": ["When night withdrew and sunrise drew its blade,", "Piran went forth before the light could fade."]}, {"id": "B9.57.21", "lines": ["He came to Afrasiab but kept his peace", "Until the crowding in the hall should cease."]}, {"id": "B9.57.22", "lines": ["He came before the throne and thus addressed", "The king: “O lord, by fortune richly blessed,"]}, {"id": "B9.57.23", "lines": ["Last night a servant shone beside your gate,", "A child whom wisdom seems to consecrate."]}, {"id": "B9.57.24", "lines": ["A child is born whose beauty charms the eyes;", "In him the moon seems mirrored from the skies."]}, {"id": "B9.57.25", "lines": ["If Tur returned once more from death to men,", "He would desire to see that child again."]}, {"id": "B9.57.26", "lines": ["No painted image in an eyvan bright", "Could match his farr, his face, his royal light."]}, {"id": "B9.57.27", "lines": ["In him Fereydoon seems reborn, the same", "In farr and face, in hand, in form and frame."]}, {"id": "B9.57.28", "lines": ["His limbs and bearing show that ancient line,", "As though Fereydoon lived in him by sign."]}, {"id": "B9.57.29", "lines": ["Lift up your heart and cast dark thoughts away;", "Let crown and spirit brighten from this day.”"]}, {"id": "B9.57.30", "lines": ["The Maker turned the king from wrath and war,", "And vengeance troubled him within no more."]}, {"id": "B9.57.31", "lines": ["A cold sigh rose; Siavash’s blood returned", "Within his thought, and deep remorse now burned."]}, {"id": "B9.57.32", "lines": ["He said: “Much evil may arise from me;", "The warnings of the wise I now can see."]}, {"id": "B9.57.33", "lines": ["The age may sink in conflict, blood, and fear,", "For seers have made the coming omens clear:"]}, {"id": "B9.57.34", "lines": ["That from the line of Tur and Qobad’s seed", "A king shall rise to rule by right and deed,"]}, {"id": "B9.57.35", "lines": ["Whom all the world shall need and praise as king,", "And all Iran bow low beneath his ring."]}, {"id": "B9.57.36", "lines": ["What had to come has come; no grief or plea", "Can now undo what fate has willed to be."]}, {"id": "B9.57.37", "lines": ["Do not keep this child among the courtly throng;", "Send him to mountain shepherds far along."]}, {"id": "B9.57.38", "lines": ["Let him not learn my name nor understand,", "Why he was taken from his mother’s hand."]}, {"id": "B9.57.39", "lines": ["Let no one teach him of his royal line,", "Nor tell the deeds that shaped this dark design.”"]}, {"id": "B9.57.40", "lines": ["Thus Afrasiab would make the old world new,", "As though the past could vanish from his view."]}, {"id": "B9.57.41", "lines": ["What remedy is yours when none lies near,", "And no true cure is held within your sphere?"]}, {"id": "B9.57.42", "lines": ["The world is vast; no snare can hold it fast,", "No net can bind what destiny has cast."]}, {"id": "B9.57.43", "lines": ["If Time brings evil, Time may yet impart", "The lesson that restores the wiser heart."]}, {"id": "B9.57.44", "lines": ["Piran departed, filled with inward grace,", "His heart uplifted as he left the place."]}, {"id": "B9.57.45", "lines": ["He praised the Maker and the newborn king,", "And blessed the fate this royal birth might bring."]}, {"id": "B9.57.46", "lines": ["He journeyed homeward, musing on its fate:", "“What fruit shall come of this young plant grown straight?”"]}, {"id": "B9.58.1", "lines": ["Piran called shepherds down from Ghola’s height,", "And spoke of Khosrow, child of royal light."]}, {"id": "B9.58.2", "lines": ["He placed within their care his heart and eye,", "The precious child he kept from any spy."]}, {"id": "B9.58.3", "lines": ["He said, “Guard him as you would guard your soul;", "Let neither dust nor bitter wind take toll."]}, {"id": "B9.58.4", "lines": ["Let no hard want disturb his youthful years;", "Provide his heart’s desire and spare him tears.”"]}, {"id": "B9.58.5", "lines": ["They answered, “We will follow your command,", "And carry out the charge placed in our hand.”"]}, {"id": "B9.58.6", "lines": ["He gave them gifts and all that they might need,", "And sent a nurse to tend the royal seed."]}, {"id": "B9.58.7", "lines": ["They touched both eye and head to show assent,", "Then bore him to the mountain and they went."]}, {"id": "B9.58.8", "lines": ["So time moved on beneath the circling sky,", "Yet none revealed his secret, low or high."]}, {"id": "B9.58.9", "lines": ["At seven years his birth and prowess showed,", "And signs of noble lineage clearly glowed."]}, {"id": "B9.58.10", "lines": ["He made himself a bow of simple wood,", "And strung it fast with gut as best he could."]}, {"id": "B9.58.11", "lines": ["He shaped an arrow, lacking plume or head,", "Then ranged the plain to hunt, as instinct led."]}, {"id": "B9.58.12", "lines": ["By ten he fought the boar, the wolf, the bear,", "With fearless heart, and faced them everywhere."]}, {"id": "B9.58.13", "lines": ["Then lion and leopard felt his wooden bow,", "As bold through the hunting ground he would go."]}, {"id": "B9.58.14", "lines": ["So time advanced beneath his guardian’s care,", "Until concern grew heavy in the air."]}, {"id": "B9.58.15", "lines": ["The shepherd left the mountain and the plain,", "And came to Piran with a troubled strain."]}, {"id": "B9.58.16", "lines": ["“I come, my lord, to speak of this young child,", "A lion proud and free, untamed and wild."]}, {"id": "B9.58.17", "lines": ["At first he hunted only timid deer,", "And shunned where lion and leopard might appear."]}, {"id": "B9.58.18", "lines": ["But now he meets a raging lion near", "As though a gentle deer had wandered here."]}, {"id": "B9.58.19", "lines": ["May no harm reach him by the dark or day,", "Lest you should bind me for this charge, I pray.”"]}, {"id": "B9.58.20", "lines": ["Piran then smiled and answered him outright:", "“True birth and prowess cannot hide from sight.”"]}, {"id": "B9.58.21", "lines": ["He mounted on a well-trained, gentle steed,", "And rode to seek the youth of noble breed."]}, {"id": "B9.58.22", "lines": ["He called him forth; the prince came like the wind,", "With eager pace and royal grace combined."]}, {"id": "B9.58.23", "lines": ["The youth bent low and kissed Piran’s old hand;", "Piran beheld his farr and noble stand."]}, {"id": "B9.58.24", "lines": ["His eyes filled up with tears, his clasp secure,", "And silently he prayed to God the Pure."]}, {"id": "B9.58.25", "lines": ["Then Piran said: “O youth of faith and worth,", "May Heaven make you radiant on the earth."]}, {"id": "B9.58.26", "lines": ["All those who know you hold your person dear,", "And call you loved whenever you draw near.”"]}, {"id": "B9.58.27", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said: “Why seek my face today?", "What need has brought you on this mountain way?"]}, {"id": "B9.58.28", "lines": ["Why clasp a shepherd’s son against your frame,", "And honor him so; does this bring no shame?”"]}, {"id": "B9.58.29", "lines": ["At this Piran’s heart burned; his face like flame:", "“O keepsake of the great and honored name,"]}, {"id": "B9.58.30", "lines": ["The world has not yet tested what you are,", "Nor shown the measure of your royal star."]}, {"id": "B9.58.31", "lines": ["No shepherd shares the substance of your birth;", "I know much more of how you came to earth.”"]}, {"id": "B9.58.32", "lines": ["He brought a noble steed, both swift and fine,", "And clothed the youth in robes of kingly design."]}, {"id": "B9.58.33", "lines": ["He led him back toward his eyvan hall,", "While grief for Siavash lay over all."]}, {"id": "B9.58.34", "lines": ["He cherished Kay Khosrow and held him near,", "And found in him both solace and good cheer."]}, {"id": "B9.58.35", "lines": ["Yet love for him and Afrasiab’s ire", "Drove food and rest and sleep from his desire."]}, {"id": "B9.58.36", "lines": ["So time moved on beneath the turning sky,", "While Piran held the royal youth close by."]}, {"id": "B9.59.1", "lines": ["One night Piran received a royal call,", "A messenger who summoned him to hall."]}, {"id": "B9.59.2", "lines": ["Before Afrasiab he took his place;", "The king then spoke with shadowed mind and face:"]}, {"id": "B9.59.3", "lines": ["“My heart is burdened with a grief so deep,", "It robs my thoughts of rest and bars all sleep."]}, {"id": "B9.59.4", "lines": ["This child of Siavash has dimmed my day;", "A rising cloud has driven light away."]}, {"id": "B9.59.5", "lines": ["Can wisdom grant that Fereydoon’s own seed", "Be reared where shepherds tend their mountain breed?"]}, {"id": "B9.59.6", "lines": ["If harm through him is written in my fate,", "No cunning hand can bar or bolt that gate."]}, {"id": "B9.59.7", "lines": ["Yet while the boy knows nothing of the past,", "Let him rejoice, and let our gladness last."]}, {"id": "B9.59.8", "lines": ["But if an evil nature should be bred,", "Then like his sire, I will sever his head.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.9", "lines": ["Piran replied: “O king, you need no guide;", "Your wisdom knows what judgment should decide."]}, {"id": "B9.59.10", "lines": ["What can a child without true wisdom know", "Of all the deeds that passed so long ago?"]}, {"id": "B9.59.11", "lines": ["Raised among shepherds, beasts, and mountain herds,", "What courtly sense could dwell within his words?"]}, {"id": "B9.59.12", "lines": ["His keeper told me only last night:", "‘The boy is fair, but lacks both sense and sight.’"]}, {"id": "B9.59.13", "lines": ["His stature, beauty, royal farr appear,", "Yet wisdom has not made its dwelling here."]}, {"id": "B9.59.14", "lines": ["Disturb not now your mind with anxious thought;", "Recall what ancient wisdom long has taught:"]}, {"id": "B9.59.15", "lines": ["‘The one who rears may rank above the sire,", "And earn the child’s devotion and desire;"]}, {"id": "B9.59.16", "lines": ["Yet one of noble birth, though far apart,", "Still turns with longing toward a mother’s heart.’"]}, {"id": "B9.59.17", "lines": ["If now the king commands, I will present", "This praised young boy before your royal tent."]}, {"id": "B9.59.18", "lines": ["But grant me first a pledge the king must make,", "A bond no royal conscience dares to break."]}, {"id": "B9.59.19", "lines": ["When Fereydoon possessed both crown and throne,", "He held to right and made true justice known."]}, {"id": "B9.59.20", "lines": ["And Tur, who ruled with splendor and command,", "Swore by Yazdan who governs sea and land."]}, {"id": "B9.59.21", "lines": ["Your grandfather Zadeshm swore, God on high,", "Who set Mars, Saturn, Sun within the sky.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.22", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s troubled mind grew calm and still;", "He swore the oath with grave, deliberate will."]}, {"id": "B9.59.23", "lines": ["“By day and night, by God whose power we trace,", "Who made the world, the earth, all time and place:"]}, {"id": "B9.59.24", "lines": ["No harm from me shall touch the boy at all;", "No breath of wrath upon his head shall fall.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.25", "lines": ["Piran bowed low and kissed the ground, then said:", "“O king whose justice guards the realm from dread,"]}, {"id": "B9.59.26", "lines": ["May wisdom ever be your guide and friend,", "And earth and time before you humbly bend.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.27", "lines": ["He hastened then to young Khosrow in joy,", "His face alight at sight of that bright boy,"]}, {"id": "B9.59.28", "lines": ["And said: “Conceal the wisdom of your mind;", "When war is named, speak feasts of every kind."]}, {"id": "B9.59.29", "lines": ["Stand like a stranger newly come to court;", "Speak without sense and turn all words to sport."]}, {"id": "B9.59.30", "lines": ["Let wisdom never show itself today;", "Perhaps this danger then will pass away.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.31", "lines": ["The Kayanian crown he placed with kingly grace,", "The Kayanian belt he fastened in its place."]}, {"id": "B9.59.32", "lines": ["He brought a pacing horse of noble breed;", "The pure-minded youth sprang onto the steed."]}, {"id": "B9.59.33", "lines": ["He reached the court; all eyes were veiled in tears,", "As grief for Siavash woke from vanished years."]}, {"id": "B9.59.34", "lines": ["A cry arose: “Make way! A youth draws near!”", "The court fell back and left the pathway clear."]}, {"id": "B9.59.35", "lines": ["Then Piran led him with a guarded heart", "Before the king, with measured step and art."]}, {"id": "B9.59.36", "lines": ["Afrasiab wept with shame to see the youth;", "His tears betrayed the burden of the truth."]}, {"id": "B9.59.37", "lines": ["He marked his royal stature, strength, and grace,", "His branch-like form and farr upon his face."]}, {"id": "B9.59.38", "lines": ["He gazed a while; the color left his cheek,", "And in the royal hall no one would speak."]}, {"id": "B9.59.39", "lines": ["Then Piran trembled like a willow tree,", "And feared the youth would never leave there free."]}, {"id": "B9.59.40", "lines": ["The monarch’s face at last grew soft and mild,", "And Time set love within him for the child."]}, {"id": "B9.59.41", "lines": ["“O shepherd youth,” the monarch said, “declare:", "What know you of the world and its affair?"]}, {"id": "B9.59.42", "lines": ["How do you fare among the grazing sheep?", "What paths across the earth do shepherds keep?”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.43", "lines": ["Khosrow replied: “No game is mine to chase;", "No bow or feathered arrow serves that place.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.44", "lines": ["The king then asked: “Who taught you what you know?", "What good or evil does Time’s turning show?”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.45", "lines": ["He said: “Where leopards strike, a warrior bleeds;", "Their claws can tear his heart despite his deeds.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.46", "lines": ["Again the king asked: “Parents, eyvan, home,", "Your city, food, and sleep; where do you roam?”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.47", "lines": ["Khosrow replied: “A raging lion, fierce and grim,", "No fighting dog can ever master him.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.48", "lines": ["The king then said: “Would you go back and bow", "Before the monarch Iran honors now?”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.49", "lines": ["Khosrow replied: “Two nights have passed since I spied", "A rider moving swiftly at my side.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.50", "lines": ["The monarch smiled, and laughter touched his face;", "Then gentler words succeeded in their place:"]}, {"id": "B9.59.51", "lines": ["“Would you not learn to read and write, and know", "Your letters, or seek vengeance on your foe?”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.52", "lines": ["Khosrow replied: “The stream runs through the dell;", "The shepherd’s cloak is rough, yet serves him well.”"]}, {"id": "B9.59.53", "lines": ["The monarch laughed aloud at such a speech,", "Then turned to Piran, seated within reach."]}, {"id": "B9.59.54", "lines": ["“This fellow is a fool; I ask of heads,", "He answers me with talk of feet instead!"]}, {"id": "B9.59.55", "lines": ["No good or harm from such a one can rise;", "Revenge is sought by sharper, keener eyes."]}, {"id": "B9.59.56", "lines": ["Now take him back and lead him from this hall;", "Return him to his mother; that is all."]}, {"id": "B9.59.57", "lines": ["Choose one true man, trustworthy and tried,", "To lead him safely to his mother’s side."]}, {"id": "B9.59.58", "lines": ["Send him to Siavash-Gard, secure and sound,", "And let no evil teacher come around."]}, {"id": "B9.59.59", "lines": ["Give horse, attendants, treasure, silver store,", "And all he needs; withhold from him no more.”"]}, {"id": "B9.60.1", "lines": ["Piran led Khosrow swiftly from the king,", "His heart made bright by what the day might bring."]}, {"id": "B9.60.2", "lines": ["He reached his eyvan, radiant with delight,", "And praised the turn that set the future right."]}, {"id": "B9.60.3", "lines": ["“A new tree now bears fruit upon the earth,", "Through Him who gave the world its form and birth.”"]}, {"id": "B9.60.4", "lines": ["He opened wide the vaults of ancient store,", "And brought forth wealth and treasure by the score."]}, {"id": "B9.60.5", "lines": ["Diba, dinars, bright pearls and gems were shown,", "With horse and arms, with helmet, belt, and throne."]}, {"id": "B9.60.6", "lines": ["He brought out bags of silver, rich array,", "And furnishings and goods in full display."]}, {"id": "B9.60.7", "lines": ["He laid them all before the royal heir,", "With gifts, and blessings spoken in his prayer."]}, {"id": "B9.60.8", "lines": ["Then Piran sent the mother and her son", "Toward the fair city Siavash had begun."]}, {"id": "B9.60.9", "lines": ["They journeyed gladly to that thorn-like place,", "Where grief had long obscured its former grace."]}, {"id": "B9.60.10", "lines": ["When Farangis and Khosrow reached the gate,", "The people gathered there from every state."]}, {"id": "B9.60.11", "lines": ["They bowed their faces low toward the ground,", "While blessings rose from every tongue around:"]}, {"id": "B9.60.12", "lines": ["“From uprooted roots a branch has risen high!", "May God protect him from the evil eye!"]}, {"id": "B9.60.13", "lines": ["May evil eyes stay far from Khosrow’s way,", "And Siavash’s soul shine bright as day!”"]}, {"id": "B9.60.14", "lines": ["The thorns became green boxwood far and wide;", "Free cypresses rose proudly at their side."]}, {"id": "B9.60.15", "lines": ["Both beasts and herds rejoiced throughout the plain,", "While thoughts of Siavash stirred hearts with pain."]}, {"id": "B9.60.16", "lines": ["From earth that drank his noble blood below,", "A green tree rose toward clouds in living show."]}, {"id": "B9.60.17", "lines": ["Its leaves displayed the likeness of his face,", "And breathed out musk across the mourning place."]}, {"id": "B9.60.18", "lines": ["In Dey it stood as though the earth would bloom,", "A shrine for mourners at his lonely tomb."]}, {"id": "B9.60.19", "lines": ["Such is this ancient world beneath the sky:", "It steals the milk where helpless infants lie."]}, {"id": "B9.60.20", "lines": ["Once hearts grow bound to all the world can give,", "It casts their heads to dust while yet they live."]}, {"id": "B9.60.21", "lines": ["Trust not the world nor lean upon its stay;", "It hides a darker grief beneath the day."]}, {"id": "B9.60.22", "lines": ["Take what brief joy its garden may supply;", "Pluck not the leaf of sorrow passing by."]}, {"id": "B9.60.23", "lines": ["Whether a crown or empty hands you bring,", "Time does not wait for pauper or for king."]}, {"id": "B9.60.24", "lines": ["Do not torment your soul for what must end;", "This turning world was never made your friend."]}, {"id": "B9.60.25", "lines": ["At last a narrow coffin is our bed;", "No crown can guard the living from the dead."]}, {"id": "B9.60.26", "lines": ["Why hoard its wealth? Let hope in God remain;", "The world loves none, though rich or poor their gain."]}, {"id": "B9.60.27", "lines": ["It lifts one head until it nears the moon,", "Then casts it to the deepest pit as soon."]}, {"id": "B9.60.28", "lines": ["Now one stands high, and now another reigns;", "The turning heaven shifts its joys and pains."]}, {"id": "B9.60.29", "lines": ["From Siavash’s spilled blood, the vengeance grows,", "And how the rightful king from Turan rose."]}]}, {"id": "B10", "title": "Vengeance for Siavash and the Retrieval of Kay Khosrow", "summary": "37 sections · 1,439 couplets", "path": "/poem/b10/", "couplets": [{"id": "B10.1.1", "lines": ["When man has counted sixty years or more,", "Give him no wine to shake what strength he bore."]}, {"id": "B10.1.2", "lines": ["Age gives a staff where once he held the rein;", "His wealth lies scattered, and his powers wane."]}, {"id": "B10.1.3", "lines": ["The watchman on the mountain scans the rise,", "And sees the countless ranks before his eyes."]}, {"id": "B10.1.4", "lines": ["He cannot draw the rein and turn away,", "Though spearheads reach his lashes in the fray."]}, {"id": "B10.1.5", "lines": ["Though two swift steeds still strain with all their might,", "The foe called Sixty binds them in the fight."]}, {"id": "B10.1.6", "lines": ["The singer tires of songs he made before;", "The nightingale and lion charm no more."]}, {"id": "B10.1.7", "lines": ["At fifty-eight I lift that bitter cup;", "The coffin and the open plain draw up."]}, {"id": "B10.1.8", "lines": ["Alas for flower, musk, and limpid spring,", "For thirty, and the Persian blade’s keen ring."]}, {"id": "B10.1.9", "lines": ["The pheasant leaves the wild rose far behind;", "Elm blossom, cypress bough now please its mind."]}, {"id": "B10.1.10", "lines": ["Grant me a little respite, Maker bright,", "To finish what remains within my sight."]}, {"id": "B10.1.11", "lines": ["Through this renowned old book may there remain", "A tale of me when I have left this plain."]}, {"id": "B10.1.12", "lines": ["Whoever judges speech with justice due", "May speak of me with kindness, firm and true."]}, {"id": "B10.1.13", "lines": ["To him who bears the pulpit and the blade,", "I turn, that intercession may be made."]}, {"id": "B10.1.14", "lines": ["The Prophet’s Household claims my heart and trust;", "Before his Successor, I bow in dust."]}, {"id": "B10.1.15", "lines": ["Once more I turn to what the dehqan knew;", "Now hear the ancient tale he told as true."]}, {"id": "B10.2.1", "lines": ["The news reached Kavus: “Siavash lies dead!", "The lord of Turan struck away his head."]}, {"id": "B10.2.2", "lines": ["As one might strike the head from some small bird,", "So fell the guiltless prince, and grief was heard."]}, {"id": "B10.2.3", "lines": ["On every mountain creatures of the wild cried,", "And mourning rose across the mountainside."]}, {"id": "B10.2.4", "lines": ["The nightingale lamented from the bough,", "While pheasants grieved beneath the roses now."]}, {"id": "B10.2.5", "lines": ["All Turan burned with sorrow everywhere;", "Pomegranate leaves turned yellow in the air."]}, {"id": "B10.2.6", "lines": ["Gurvi Zereh set a basin made of gold,", "And turned him like a sheep within his hold."]}, {"id": "B10.2.7", "lines": ["He struck the royal head from body clean;", "No rescuer, no champion intervened.”"]}, {"id": "B10.2.8", "lines": ["When Kavus heard, his crowned head drooped low,", "And from the throne he bowed beneath his woe."]}, {"id": "B10.2.9", "lines": ["He tore his robes and scratched his face with cries,", "Then fell from high throne, dust before his eyes."]}, {"id": "B10.2.10", "lines": ["The men of Iran raised a mourning cry,", "And warriors grieved beneath the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "B10.2.11", "lines": ["Their eyes ran blood; their faces yellow grew,", "A cold wind from Siavash through spirits blew."]}, {"id": "B10.2.12", "lines": ["Tus, Gudarz, Giv, and Shapur came to mourn,", "With Farhad, Bahram, all with sorrow torn."]}, {"id": "B10.2.13", "lines": ["They clothed themselves in dark blue, black array,", "And wore dust for crowns through that mournful day."]}, {"id": "B10.3.1", "lines": ["In Nimruz Rostam heard Iran’s great cry,", "While boiling dust rose black against the sky."]}, {"id": "B10.3.2", "lines": ["“Kavus has heaped dust upon his royal crown,", "His robe is torn; Siavash’s head struck down.”"]}, {"id": "B10.3.3", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, he fell bereft of sense;", "Through Zabul rose a mourning vast, immense."]}, {"id": "B10.3.4", "lines": ["Zal clawed his cheeks with fingers in despair,", "And heaped the dust upon his head and hair."]}, {"id": "B10.3.5", "lines": ["For seven days they mourned in sorrow’s pall;", "Upon the eighth the war-karnay gave its call."]}, {"id": "B10.3.6", "lines": ["From Kashmir and from Kabul warriors came,", "And thronged before his gate in martial frame."]}, {"id": "B10.3.7", "lines": ["With bloodshot eyes, his heart on vengeance set,", "He rode to Kavus, burning with regret."]}, {"id": "B10.3.8", "lines": ["As Iran’s royal city came in view,", "He tore his Pahlevan robe clean through."]}, {"id": "B10.3.9", "lines": ["He swore by the Sustainer of the world,", "By whom the vault of heaven’s wheel is whirled:"]}, {"id": "B10.3.10", "lines": ["“No hour shall strip my jowshan from my frame;", "I wear my armor till revenge I claim."]}, {"id": "B10.3.11", "lines": ["Nor shall I cleanse the dust from face or brow;", "Such mourning fits the oath I utter now."]}, {"id": "B10.3.12", "lines": ["My helmet is my crown, my sword my cup;", "My rawhide kamand on my arm coils up."]}, {"id": "B10.3.13", "lines": ["Until Siavash’s blood receives its due,", "That dark-souled Turanian I pursue.”"]}, {"id": "B10.3.14", "lines": ["With dust upon his head and dusty feet,", "He came before the king upon his seat:"]}, {"id": "B10.3.15", "lines": ["“O king, the evil seed that you have sown", "Has ripened now; its bitter fruit is known."]}, {"id": "B10.3.16", "lines": ["Your love for Sudabeh, your crooked way,", "Has stripped the royal crown from you today."]}, {"id": "B10.3.17", "lines": ["Now plainly see where your own choices be:", "Your throne is riding on the waves of sea."]}, {"id": "B10.3.18", "lines": ["Your thought and temper brought this grievous blow;", "Through Iran now its bitter sorrows flow."]}, {"id": "B10.3.19", "lines": ["For one who rules, a shroud would be more fit", "Than to a woman’s order to submit."]}, {"id": "B10.3.20", "lines": ["A woman’s words brought Siavash to doom;", "Blessed the woman never born of womb."]}, {"id": "B10.3.21", "lines": ["Among the kings none stood to him so near,", "So free, so generous, and bright with cheer."]}, {"id": "B10.3.22", "lines": ["Alas his head and shoulder, chest and arm,", "His hand, his gopal, instruments of harm."]}, {"id": "B10.3.23", "lines": ["Alas his face, his stature, royal air,", "His foot in stirrup, poised with sovereign care."]}, {"id": "B10.3.24", "lines": ["At feast he was the spring of high renown;", "In war, among the champions, the crown."]}, {"id": "B10.3.25", "lines": ["At court he scattered pearls on every side;", "In war he scattered heads both far and wide."]}, {"id": "B10.3.26", "lines": ["While life remains, my heart and brain shall burn", "For vengeance, till Siavash has his turn."]}, {"id": "B10.3.27", "lines": ["In every war my weeping eyes shall blaze;", "I shall pursue revenge through all my days."]}, {"id": "B10.3.28", "lines": ["As grief has burned my heart with ceaseless fire,", "So shall I burn the world in vengeance dire.”"]}, {"id": "B10.4.1", "lines": ["King Kavus saw blood mingled with his tears,", "And knew how deep the grief of loss appears."]}, {"id": "B10.4.2", "lines": ["Ashamed, he gave no answer from the throne;", "Hot tears ran down; he wept and made no moan."]}, {"id": "B10.4.3", "lines": ["The hero turned and left the royal seat,", "And strode toward Sudabeh’s own retreat."]}, {"id": "B10.4.4", "lines": ["He seized her hair behind the curtain’s fold,", "And dragged her from the throne she used to hold."]}, {"id": "B10.4.5", "lines": ["His khanjar struck and cleft her at a stroke;", "Kavus sat still, and not a word he spoke."]}, {"id": "B10.4.6", "lines": ["Back to the court came Rostam, eyes blood-red;", "His yellow face showed grief for one now dead."]}, {"id": "B10.4.7", "lines": ["All Iran gathered round him in despair,", "And grief and mourning darkened everywhere."]}, {"id": "B10.4.8", "lines": ["For seven days he sat in wrath and woe,", "While tears of mourning from his eyes would flow."]}, {"id": "B10.4.9", "lines": ["Upon the eighth the bronze ney loudly rang,", "And from the koust the call to battle sprang."]}, {"id": "B10.4.10", "lines": ["Then Gudarz, Tus, and Farhad came to wait", "With Bahram, Giv, and Gorgin at the gate."]}, {"id": "B10.4.11", "lines": ["Then Shapur, Fariborz, and Rohham pressed,", "With Guraza, vengeance burning in each breast."]}, {"id": "B10.4.12", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “My heart, my soul, my frame", "I give to vengeance for Siavash’s name."]}, {"id": "B10.4.13", "lines": ["No famed rider shall gird himself for strife", "As Siavash did throughout his noble life."]}, {"id": "B10.4.14", "lines": ["Do not account this murder small or slight;", "Its vengeance is no little thing to right."]}, {"id": "B10.4.15", "lines": ["Cast fear away; make earth a Jihun red,", "A river swollen with the blood we shed."]}, {"id": "B10.4.16", "lines": ["By Yazdan, while I breathe beneath the sun,", "My heart seeks vengeance till the work is done."]}, {"id": "B10.4.17", "lines": ["Upon that waterless and barren stone,", "Where Gurvi Zereh spilled his blood alone,"]}, {"id": "B10.4.18", "lines": ["I long to lay my face and eyes there low,", "Perhaps to ease the grief I cannot show."]}, {"id": "B10.4.19", "lines": ["Perhaps my hands like his shall yet be tied,", "A halter at my neck, my strength denied,"]}, {"id": "B10.4.20", "lines": ["And I, like sheep, be cast upon the ground,", "My arms within the kamand’s curve be bound."]}, {"id": "B10.4.21", "lines": ["But if I live, my gorz and sword shall rise,", "And raise a Resurrection to the skies."]}, {"id": "B10.4.22", "lines": ["My eyes shall see no more but battle’s haze;", "No wine, no cup, no feast shall mark my days.”"]}, {"id": "B10.4.23", "lines": ["Each kanarang and Pahlevan stood near,", "And heard the vow of Rostam, fierce and clear."]}, {"id": "B10.4.24", "lines": ["They raised one cry that made the heavens recoil;", "Beneath their roar the very field seemed to boil."]}, {"id": "B10.4.25", "lines": ["Their shout rose up from Iran toward the sky;", "The earth became a field where lions cry."]}, {"id": "B10.4.26", "lines": ["The mohreh sounded high on elephants’ backs;", "The warriors drew their swords for fierce attacks."]}, {"id": "B10.4.27", "lines": ["The gavdam roared; the bronze ney gave its tone,", "And curved bronze horns made all the valleys groan."]}, {"id": "B10.4.28", "lines": ["The world with vengeance against Afrasiab burned;", "The sea itself seemed boiling as it churned."]}, {"id": "B10.4.29", "lines": ["The earth was packed with warriors as they came;", "The air lay ambushed by their spears like flame."]}, {"id": "B10.4.30", "lines": ["The star itself seemed first to join the fight;", "Earth and Time washed hands of blood that night."]}, {"id": "B10.4.31", "lines": ["Iranian warriors girded, flank to flank;", "Kaveh’s bright banner streamed before each rank."]}, {"id": "B10.4.32", "lines": ["Then Rostam, Zabul’s champion, chose his band,", "The sword-bearing warriors of Kabul’s land."]}, {"id": "B10.4.33", "lines": ["From Iran and from Narvan’s wooded span,", "A hundred thousand warriors joined his van."]}, {"id": "B10.5.1", "lines": ["The army’s vanguard Faramarz now led,", "Brave Rostam’s son, sepahbod at its head."]}, {"id": "B10.5.2", "lines": ["At Turan’s border Faramarz drew near,", "A wary watchman saw his force appear."]}, {"id": "B10.5.3", "lines": ["Varazad ruled over Sipanjab’s land,", "A lustrous pearl among the warrior band."]}, {"id": "B10.5.4", "lines": ["When horns and karnays split the open air,", "The bells of battle answered everywhere."]}, {"id": "B10.5.5", "lines": ["His tabiras boomed out; his forces sped,", "From open plain toward a sea of blood ahead."]}, {"id": "B10.5.6", "lines": ["In front, with drawn blades bright in ordered rows,", "Were thirty thousand hard and proven foes."]}, {"id": "B10.5.7", "lines": ["He left his army’s center in a dash,", "And rode toward Faramarz before the clash."]}, {"id": "B10.5.8", "lines": ["He said, “Declare your name before we close;", "Why have you come to stand against my blows?"]}, {"id": "B10.5.9", "lines": ["Do you advance here at the Shah’s command,", "Or from the Pahlevan’s own fighting band?"]}, {"id": "B10.5.10", "lines": ["Do you not know Afrasiab’s own hand,", "His crown, his rule, his power in this land?"]}, {"id": "B10.5.11", "lines": ["Speak now your name, and let it be declared;", "Then see what end this venture has prepared."]}, {"id": "B10.5.12", "lines": ["Do not die nameless by my hand in strife;", "Your soul will leave this darkened frame of life.”"]}, {"id": "B10.5.13", "lines": ["Then Faramarz said, “Luckless chief, now see:", "I am the fruit of Rostam’s mighty tree."]}, {"id": "B10.5.14", "lines": ["His hand makes lions writhe when blows descend,", "And elephants beneath his anger bend."]}, {"id": "B10.5.15", "lines": ["Why name myself to one so base in deed,", "Div-born, corrupt in nature and in seed?"]}, {"id": "B10.5.16", "lines": ["The elephant-bodied chief stands at my back,", "With strength enough to break your full attack."]}, {"id": "B10.5.17", "lines": ["To avenge Siavash he girds for war,", "And comes, a raging lion, with a roar."]}, {"id": "B10.5.18", "lines": ["He will raise smoke from Turan through the sky;", "The wind around him will not dare pass by.”"]}, {"id": "B10.5.19", "lines": ["When Varazad had heard the words he made,", "He scorned the battle-threat that they conveyed."]}, {"id": "B10.5.20", "lines": ["He gave command throughout his ordered line:", "“Draw every bow and let your arrows shine!”"]}, {"id": "B10.5.21", "lines": ["Both sides made ready, holding firm their ground;", "While iron helmets every warrior crowned."]}, {"id": "B10.5.22", "lines": ["From every side the warriors’ clamor spread,", "The earth boiled under hooves where horses sped."]}, {"id": "B10.5.23", "lines": ["Tabira, karnay thundered down the line,", "The heart of Faramarz leapt at the sign."]}, {"id": "B10.5.24", "lines": ["He charged, a raging elephant unbound,", "His bow upon his arm, his belt wound round."]}, {"id": "B10.5.25", "lines": ["In one fierce rush he broke their ordered wall;", "Across the field a thousand men did fall."]}, {"id": "B10.5.26", "lines": ["Then Faramarz advanced with spear in hand,", "And barred Varazad’s flight across the land."]}, {"id": "B10.5.27", "lines": ["He saw Varazad’s banner raised ahead,", "Then like a lion through the army sped."]}, {"id": "B10.5.28", "lines": ["He spurred his black steed and drove on his foe,", "His hand clenched on the spear to strike the blow."]}, {"id": "B10.5.29", "lines": ["His spear struck hard where belt and armor tied,", "The binding burst and opened at his side."]}, {"id": "B10.5.30", "lines": ["He raised him from the leopard saddle clear,", "As light as any gnat that flutters near."]}, {"id": "B10.5.31", "lines": ["He hurled him down, dismounted from his steed,", "And hailed Siavash, then began the deed."]}, {"id": "B10.5.32", "lines": ["He struck the head from Varazad in war,", "And drenched his robes in blood and crimson gore."]}, {"id": "B10.5.33", "lines": ["He cried, “This marks the first revenge we sow;", "The scattered seed of conflict starts to grow.”"]}, {"id": "B10.5.34", "lines": ["They set the land on fire from end to end;", "The smoke rose high and made the heavens bend."]}, {"id": "B10.5.35", "lines": ["Then Faramarz wrote Rostam of the fray:", "“I opened vengeance’s gate upon this day."]}, {"id": "B10.5.36", "lines": ["I tore him from his leopard saddle-seat,", "Then struck him down and brought him to defeat."]}, {"id": "B10.5.37", "lines": ["For Siavash I severed Varazad’s head,", "And through his realm the fires of vengeance spread.”"]}, {"id": "B10.6.1", "lines": ["A runner came to Afrasiab’s throne,", "“Rostam has marched and made the war his own."]}, {"id": "B10.6.2", "lines": ["The chiefs of Iran have gathered in might,", "And Varazad lies fallen from the fight."]}, {"id": "B10.6.3", "lines": ["They broke his ranks and stripped the marches bare,", "And burned his lands; black smoke possessed the air.”"]}, {"id": "B10.6.4", "lines": ["Afrasiab grew troubled at the news,", "And weighed the warnings he could not refuse."]}, {"id": "B10.6.5", "lines": ["Old warnings from the wise returned with dread,", "From Mobadan and those the starlight read."]}, {"id": "B10.6.6", "lines": ["He summoned all his nobles to the court,", "And paid his troops with gold of every sort."]}, {"id": "B10.6.7", "lines": ["No loose warhorse was left across the plain,", "The shepherds drove the gathered herds in train."]}, {"id": "B10.6.8", "lines": ["He brought out gopal, bargostvan, and bow,", "With swords and shafts made ready for the foe."]}, {"id": "B10.6.9", "lines": ["With gems and coins and belts and shining crowns,", "He poured his treasure through the royal grounds."]}, {"id": "B10.6.10", "lines": ["The minister and treasurer unlocked stores,", "And opened guarded wealth behind their doors."]}, {"id": "B10.6.11", "lines": ["Through palace courts and field the silver flowed,", "As coin and treasure passed from load to load."]}, {"id": "B10.6.12", "lines": ["When every rank was armed and all arrayed,", "Among the troops the royal wealth was paid."]}, {"id": "B10.6.13", "lines": ["Tabiras rang; the Indian gongs replied,", "And riders turned to war on every side."]}, {"id": "B10.6.14", "lines": ["He marched from Gang and reached the open plain,", "Then called his son and spoke in measured strain:"]}, {"id": "B10.6.15", "lines": ["“Take thirty thousand riders, swift and hard,", "Ride straight to Sipanjab; all rest discard."]}, {"id": "B10.6.16", "lines": ["For Faramarz is there; bring back his head,", "But fear the son of Zal, whose name is dread."]}, {"id": "B10.6.17", "lines": ["No living man can match you in the field,", "Yet he alone may make your valor yield."]}, {"id": "B10.6.18", "lines": ["Where leopard seeks the fight, no dog should go,", "To test its strength against a greater foe."]}, {"id": "B10.6.19", "lines": ["You are my son, my loyal strength and stay,", "My army’s pillar, moon that lights its way."]}, {"id": "B10.6.20", "lines": ["Be watchful; keep your judgment sharp and clear,", "Then none who face you there should cause you fear."]}, {"id": "B10.6.21", "lines": ["Go foremost; guard the army rank by rank,", "When Rostam drives against your battle flank.”"]}, {"id": "B10.6.22", "lines": ["When Surkha left his father’s royal hall,", "He led the troops beneath the banners’ call."]}, {"id": "B10.6.23", "lines": ["He rode to Sipanjab with wind-swift speed,", "Resolved to answer battle’s urgent need."]}, {"id": "B10.6.24", "lines": ["The outposts saw the dust clouds rise and spread,", "And warned brave Faramarz of troops ahead."]}, {"id": "B10.6.25", "lines": ["Iran’s tabiras thundered through the day,", "And dust drew all the light of dawn away."]}, {"id": "B10.6.26", "lines": ["The riders’ cries and horses reached the sky,", "Past sun and Venus wheeling there on high."]}, {"id": "B10.6.27", "lines": ["Bright blades like diamonds flashed across the field,", "And spearpoints drank the blood that wounds revealed."]}, {"id": "B10.6.28", "lines": ["War’s fiery vapor rose above the ground,", "Where heaps of slain and severed heads were found."]}, {"id": "B10.6.29", "lines": ["When Surkha saw the champion through the fight,", "He marked his spear advancing into sight."]}, {"id": "B10.6.30", "lines": ["Then Surkha spurred his steed and took his spear,", "And cast his bow aside as he drew near."]}, {"id": "B10.6.31", "lines": ["Then Faramarz broke forward from the line,", "And met him spear to spear in harsh design."]}, {"id": "B10.6.32", "lines": ["He struck like Azargashasp, fierce and fast,", "Across his charger’s neck the prince was cast."]}, {"id": "B10.6.33", "lines": ["The Turan chiefs advanced to stem the blow,", "And pressed the fight in rage against the foe."]}, {"id": "B10.6.34", "lines": ["So hard they closed around him in the fray,", "His spear-shaft shattered and was swept away."]}, {"id": "B10.6.35", "lines": ["Then Surkha saw he could not hold the field,", "Nor make the charging Faramarz yield. "]}, {"id": "B10.6.36", "lines": ["Defeated, he turned back in sudden dread,", "And from the field in bitter anguish fled."]}, {"id": "B10.6.37", "lines": ["Like a maddened elephant he gave chase,", "His Indian sword flashed bright before his face."]}, {"id": "B10.6.38", "lines": ["The Iranian riders followed in his wake,", "Their battle-cries made all the valley shake."]}, {"id": "B10.6.39", "lines": ["Like a fierce leopard Faramarz sprang beside,", "He seized his belt and tore him from his ride."]}, {"id": "B10.6.40", "lines": ["He drove the captive onward from the fight,", "On foot to camp, disgraced before their sight."]}, {"id": "B10.6.41", "lines": ["At that same hour great Rostam’s banner rose,", "Above the marching troops in ordered rows."]}, {"id": "B10.6.42", "lines": ["The elephants came on with all his train,", "Their thunder rolled across the open plain."]}, {"id": "B10.6.43", "lines": ["The prince rode out and reached his father’s side,", "And came before him in victorious pride."]}, {"id": "B10.6.44", "lines": ["Before them Surkha stood in fetters bound,", "And Varazad’s head lay grim on the ground."]}, {"id": "B10.6.45", "lines": ["The caves and plains lay heaped with battle-dead;", "The beaten enemy from combat fled."]}, {"id": "B10.6.46", "lines": ["The soldiers praised the courage he had shown,", "And Rostam blessed his valor as his own."]}, {"id": "B10.6.47", "lines": ["He gave much wealth to those who lived in need,", "Then spoke of Faramarz and praised his deed:"]}, {"id": "B10.6.48", "lines": ["“Whoever rises high above the rest", "Must join inborn strength with skill at its best."]}, {"id": "B10.6.49", "lines": ["Add wisdom, learning; let the four unite,", "Together they can raise a warrior’s might."]}, {"id": "B10.6.50", "lines": ["When all four join, both wing and foot arise,", "And bear the warrior upward toward the skies."]}, {"id": "B10.6.51", "lines": ["Of fire you see no nature but to burn;", "A world before it soon to ash will turn."]}, {"id": "B10.6.52", "lines": ["No wonder Faramarz has risen higher;", "The very heart of steel is filled with fire."]}, {"id": "B10.6.53", "lines": ["And when it strikes against the hardened stone,", "That hidden strength is driven forth and shown.”"]}, {"id": "B10.6.54", "lines": ["Then Rostam looked on Surkha where he stood,", "A noble youth, upright as cypress wood."]}, {"id": "B10.6.55", "lines": ["His chest was broad, a lion’s strength and grace;", "The bloom of spring was written on his face."]}, {"id": "B10.6.56", "lines": ["Black musk lay patterned on the youthful rose,", "Across the bloom where springtime beauty glows."]}, {"id": "B10.6.57", "lines": ["He said: “Bring him before me on the plain,", "And summon those who deal in death and pain."]}, {"id": "B10.6.58", "lines": ["Bring basin, khanjar; bind the captive’s hands,", "And coil the kamand round him in its bands."]}, {"id": "B10.6.59", "lines": ["Lay him like sheep upon the bloodied ground,", "As Siavash lay helpless, closely bound."]}, {"id": "B10.6.60", "lines": ["Strike off his head as Siavash was slain,", "And let the vulture shroud him on the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B10.6.61", "lines": ["When Tus the great chief heard the order given,", "He went at once, by duty sternly driven."]}, {"id": "B10.6.62", "lines": ["Then Surkha said: “What wrong, what bloody deed?", "Why must I die for another’s misdeed?"]}, {"id": "B10.6.63", "lines": ["Siavash was my equal and my friend;", "My grief for him has known no pause nor end."]}, {"id": "B10.6.64", "lines": ["My eyes have never ceased to weep his fate,", "And curse the blade that struck him down in hate."]}, {"id": "B10.6.65", "lines": ["I curse the man who brought the bowl and knife,", "Who took the prince’s head and quenched his life.”"]}, {"id": "B10.6.66", "lines": ["The heart of Tus was moved by what he heard;", "He felt the weight and truth of every word."]}, {"id": "B10.6.67", "lines": ["He went to Rostam, told the captive’s plea,", "And asked that mercy set the young man free."]}, {"id": "B10.6.68", "lines": ["But Rostam said: “May Afrasiab know", "The grief and pain his evil deeds now sow."]}, {"id": "B10.6.69", "lines": ["Let sorrow dwell within his heart always,", "And tears consume the measure of his days."]}, {"id": "B10.6.70", "lines": ["This youth springs from Afrasiab’s evil root,", "And schemes deceit, his father’s living fruit."]}, {"id": "B10.6.71", "lines": ["As Siavash lay helpless on the ground,", "His breast and hair in streaming blood were drowned,"]}, {"id": "B10.6.72", "lines": ["So by the life and head of Kavus, king,", "The glorious ruler whom Iran shall sing,"]}, {"id": "B10.6.73", "lines": ["I swear that every Turanian I find,", "Be he a king or slave of any kind,"]}, {"id": "B10.6.74", "lines": ["Shall lose his head beneath avenging steel,", "And bear the mark of wrath that will not heal.”"]}, {"id": "B10.6.75", "lines": ["He turned to Zavareh with iron tone,", "And gave the order, merciless as stone."]}, {"id": "B10.6.76", "lines": ["Zavareh brought the same basin and blade,", "Then gave him to the waiting guards arrayed."]}, {"id": "B10.6.77", "lines": ["The khanjar fell and severed head from breast,", "And in a breath young Surkha sank to rest."]}, {"id": "B10.6.78", "lines": ["What do you want, O world, from those you tend?", "Your heart-scarred captives meet a bitter end."]}, {"id": "B10.6.79", "lines": ["They hung his body head-down from the frame,", "His feet held high above in public shame."]}, {"id": "B10.6.80", "lines": ["He cast the dust of revenge on the slain,", "While soldiers hacked the body in disdain."]}, {"id": "B10.7.1", "lines": ["When Turan’s troops returned from battle red,", "Blood stained each body, dust lay on each head."]}, {"id": "B10.7.2", "lines": ["They said: “The noble chief has met his end,", "His rising fortune sank where spears descend."]}, {"id": "B10.7.3", "lines": ["His head was severed; all the troops withdrew,", "Their fill of war behind them as they flew."]}, {"id": "B10.7.4", "lines": ["The men of Iran stood again for war,", "Their hearts still burned for Siavash’s gore.”"]}, {"id": "B10.7.5", "lines": ["Afrasiab then bent his crowned head low,", "And tore his hair while tears began to flow."]}, {"id": "B10.7.6", "lines": ["He cast the dust upon his head and cried,", "And tore his royal robes from side to side."]}, {"id": "B10.7.7", "lines": ["“O famed sepahbod, hero of the fight!", "Your rosy face once shone with moonlike light."]}, {"id": "B10.7.8", "lines": ["Your form and noble bearing fade from sight;", "No rest for me till vengeance claims its right.”"]}, {"id": "B10.7.9", "lines": ["Then to his troops: “Our food and sleep are done;", "No rest remains until revenge is won."]}, {"id": "B10.7.10", "lines": ["Let armor be your bed and war your breath,", "And fix your minds on vengeance and on death.”"]}, {"id": "B10.7.11", "lines": ["The kousts were pounded loudly at the gate,", "The warriors armed and gathered, grim with hate."]}, {"id": "B10.7.12", "lines": ["When war tabiras sounded on each side,", "No fighting man held back or turned aside."]}, {"id": "B10.7.13", "lines": ["The bronze horns sounded; Afrasiab cried,", "“You battle-chiefs, let courage be your guide,"]}, {"id": "B10.7.14", "lines": ["Let vengeance fill your hearts in every vein,", "As javelins fill the bodies of the slain.”"]}, {"id": "B10.7.15", "lines": ["The gavdam roared; the brazen karnays blew,", "And battle-pipes sent clamor ringing through."]}, {"id": "B10.7.16", "lines": ["The ground convulsed beneath the horses’ feet,", "Their shouting rose where earth and thunder meet."]}, {"id": "B10.7.17", "lines": ["When Turan’s army veiled the plain in dust,", "A scout rode hard to warn him of their thrust."]}, {"id": "B10.7.18", "lines": ["He said: “Afrasiab himself draws near;", "His army like a ship on waves appears."]}, {"id": "B10.7.19", "lines": ["All stand prepared to strike for vengeance now,", "Their claws are sharpened, blood their only vow.”"]}, {"id": "B10.7.20", "lines": ["When Rostam heard the king had come for war,", "He formed his troops and led them to the fore."]}, {"id": "B10.7.21", "lines": ["The banner of Kaveh rose toward the sky,", "While purple swordlight stained the air on high."]}, {"id": "B10.7.22", "lines": ["A cry went up from both contending sides,", "The world was filled with war’s opposing tides."]}, {"id": "B10.7.23", "lines": ["The sun and moon seemed swallowed in the fight,", "The stars in whale-like jaws were lost from sight."]}, {"id": "B10.7.24", "lines": ["The king of Turan formed his vast array,", "With gopal and javelin for the fray."]}, {"id": "B10.7.25", "lines": ["On Turan’s right bold Barman led the throng,", "While Kuhram held the left, as iron strong."]}, {"id": "B10.7.26", "lines": ["Afrasiab held the army’s center fast,", "His ordered ranks around him deep and vast."]}, {"id": "B10.7.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam formed the army rank by rank,", "From center outward to each guarding flank."]}, {"id": "B10.7.28", "lines": ["The earth lay hidden underneath the haze;", "He held the center, armed for battle’s blaze."]}, {"id": "B10.7.29", "lines": ["With Faramarz before him, spear in hand,", "And Zavareh behind to guard the band."]}, {"id": "B10.7.30", "lines": ["On the left stood Gudarz and Hajir strong,", "While Tus and Giv held right against the throng."]}, {"id": "B10.7.31", "lines": ["With Tus and Giv the elephants stood right,", "The koust resounded as they formed for fight."]}, {"id": "B10.7.32", "lines": ["Then Rostam armed, his heart set hard and high,", "Hooves musk-darkened earth; spears leopard-marked the sky."]}, {"id": "B10.7.33", "lines": ["An iron mountain rose across the plain,", "Cloud-high spears and purple swords flashed like rain."]}, {"id": "B10.8.1", "lines": ["Pilsam came forward, vengeance in his breast,", "His face grown grim, his heart denied him rest."]}, {"id": "B10.8.2", "lines": ["Before the king, where chiefs and captains met,", "He spoke with pride, his heart on battle set:"]}, {"id": "B10.8.3", "lines": ["“O wise and famous king, now grant me leave,", "Or else forbid the arms I would receive."]}, {"id": "B10.8.4", "lines": ["My horse, my jowshan, helm and blade I seek;", "Today I ride where Rostam might prove weak."]}, {"id": "B10.8.5", "lines": ["Today I will cover his name with shame,", "And bring his severed head to end his fame."]}, {"id": "B10.8.6", "lines": ["Then Rakhsh, his gorz, his world-dividing blade,", "Before your royal feet shall all be laid.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.7", "lines": ["The king rejoiced; new life ran through his frame,", "His spearpoint rose above the sun’s bright flame."]}, {"id": "B10.8.8", "lines": ["“O lion famed for valor in the field,", "No elephant alive can make you yield."]}, {"id": "B10.8.9", "lines": ["If elephant-bodied Rostam falls to you,", "The age will rest from strife and quarrel too."]}, {"id": "B10.8.10", "lines": ["In all Turan no chief will match your name,", "The seal and throne await your rising claim."]}, {"id": "B10.8.11", "lines": ["You will raise my head beneath turning sky;", "My crown and daughter shall be yours thereby."]}, {"id": "B10.8.12", "lines": ["Two shares of Iran and Turan are yours,", "With cities, gems, and all their treasured stores.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.13", "lines": ["But Piran came and made his sorrow known,", "And said: “This youth now risks his life alone."]}, {"id": "B10.8.14", "lines": ["If he should meet the matchless Rostam’s hand,", "His lifeless head will fall upon the sand."]}, {"id": "B10.8.15", "lines": ["He does not see where this rash road will end;", "His very name and honor he will spend."]}, {"id": "B10.8.16", "lines": ["The king will bear the shame if he should fall,", "And break the hearts of warriors one and all."]}, {"id": "B10.8.17", "lines": ["He is my younger brother, this you know;", "An elder’s love for younger still will grow.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.18", "lines": ["But Pilsam said: “My heart will not give way;", "If I should meet that warrior in the fray,"]}, {"id": "B10.8.19", "lines": ["By fortune I shall suffer no disgrace;", "You saw me face four champions in that place."]}, {"id": "B10.8.20", "lines": ["My strength is greater now than it was then;", "Do not break down the hearts of fighting men."]}, {"id": "B10.8.21", "lines": ["This task lies open to my hand and eye;", "Give no regard to omens passing by.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.22", "lines": ["The monarch chose a warhorse for the fight,", "And gave it to the warrior in his sight."]}, {"id": "B10.8.23", "lines": ["A sword, a heavy gorz, jowshan and helm,", "And bargostvan were brought from out the realm."]}, {"id": "B10.8.24", "lines": ["Then Pilsam armed and rode with lion force,", "His breath like wind as onward sped his horse."]}, {"id": "B10.8.25", "lines": ["He cried to Iran’s troops in challenge clear:", "“Where is your Rostam? Bid him now draw near."]}, {"id": "B10.8.26", "lines": ["Bid your field-dragon face me in the fray;", "My claws are sharpened for the fight today.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.27", "lines": ["At this bold challenge Giv began to rage,", "And drew his sword, prepared the foe to engage:"]}, {"id": "B10.8.28", "lines": ["“Rostam will not fight one Turanian foe;", "Such combat brings him shame, as well you know.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.29", "lines": ["They closed; Pilsam drove his spear with force,", "The blow struck Giv and rocked him on his horse."]}, {"id": "B10.8.30", "lines": ["Both feet flew free from stirrups at the blow;", "He swayed but held his charger even so."]}, {"id": "B10.8.31", "lines": ["Faramarz rode out to give him aid,", "And sheared his spear like reed with flashing blade."]}, {"id": "B10.8.32", "lines": ["He struck again; his sword was split in two,", "Against the helm no tempered edge broke through."]}, {"id": "B10.8.33", "lines": ["The foe wheeled like a lion in the fight,", "And faced the two as fresh and full of might."]}, {"id": "B10.8.34", "lines": ["Then Rostam from the center viewed the fray,", "Two noble champions held one man at bay."]}, {"id": "B10.8.35", "lines": ["He knew that only Pilsam fought this way;", "None else in Turan could hold two, men say."]}, {"id": "B10.8.36", "lines": ["He called to mind what Mobadan had said,", "And star-wise men who traced the paths ahead:"]}, {"id": "B10.8.37", "lines": ["Wise men who knew the turns of age and fate,", "And read the world’s old course from first to late:"]}, {"id": "B10.8.38", "lines": ["“If fortune spares him and good teachers guide,", "No champion then can match him stride for stride."]}, {"id": "B10.8.39", "lines": ["In Iran or Turan no warrior then", "Will stand against him among fighting men.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.40", "lines": ["Then Rostam thought: “His destined hour is here;", "He comes himself to meet me without fear.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.41", "lines": ["He said to all his troops: “Let none advance;", "Hold where you stand and keep your ordered stance."]}, {"id": "B10.8.42", "lines": ["I go myself to test this warrior’s claim,", "To prove his strength, his spirit, and his name.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.43", "lines": ["He took a weighty spear and gripped the rein,", "Set firm his helm and faced the battle plain."]}, {"id": "B10.8.44", "lines": ["He braced his feet and leveled out the spear;", "Its polished point flashed cold as he drew near."]}, {"id": "B10.8.45", "lines": ["He weighted both his stirrups, reins let go,", "The shining spearpoint leveled at the foe."]}, {"id": "B10.8.46", "lines": ["Foam touched his lips; he wheeled from battle’s core,", "And rode at speed toward Pilsam at the fore."]}, {"id": "B10.8.47", "lines": ["He cried: “O Pilsam, called to breathe out flame,", "You summoned me; now answer for your claim."]}, {"id": "B10.8.48", "lines": ["You shall behold the nahang face to face,", "And never turn your rein to war’s embrace."]}, {"id": "B10.8.49", "lines": ["Your youth has set my grieving heart aflame;", "Alas for all your valor and your name!”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.50", "lines": ["He spoke and spurred his swift steed, vengeance high,", "And swept against him like the wheeling sky."]}, {"id": "B10.8.51", "lines": ["He struck the belt with one tremendous blow,", "And like a ball from saddle made him go."]}, {"id": "B10.8.52", "lines": ["He bore him through Turan’s warring array,", "And cast him where Afrasiab held the day."]}, {"id": "B10.8.53", "lines": ["He cried, “Now cover Pilsam where he lay,", "In yellow diba bright against the clay.”"]}, {"id": "B10.8.54", "lines": ["Then Rostam turned his rein, and from the fore", "Rode to the army’s center as before."]}, {"id": "B10.8.55", "lines": ["Piran stood weeping for his brother slain,", "His lashes poured their tears like falling rain."]}, {"id": "B10.8.56", "lines": ["No healer’s art could mend the shattered frame;", "No remedy could call him back by name."]}, {"id": "B10.8.57", "lines": ["The heart of Turan’s army broke with grief,", "And darkness veiled the field without relief."]}, {"id": "B10.8.58", "lines": ["Then from both armies rose a battle cry,", "That rolled from bloodied earth toward the sky."]}, {"id": "B10.8.59", "lines": ["The koust on elephants began to sound,", "Their thunder carried far across the ground."]}, {"id": "B10.8.60", "lines": ["The earth lay spent beneath the pounding feet,", "The karnay’s blare made heaven leave its seat."]}, {"id": "B10.8.61", "lines": ["The mountains seemed like seas beneath the fray,", "The plains like mountains under war’s array."]}, {"id": "B10.8.62", "lines": ["The stones like coral, all the dust ran red;", "Across the field lay heaps of battle-dead."]}, {"id": "B10.8.63", "lines": ["Full many chieftains lay with heads cast low,", "Their blood ran dark beneath the trampling foe."]}, {"id": "B10.8.64", "lines": ["Blood seemed to rain; no father loved his son,", "A dark wind crossed the field where blood would run."]}, {"id": "B10.8.65", "lines": ["The dust took hold of sky and swallowed day;", "Then both sides charged in fierce and blind array."]}, {"id": "B10.8.66", "lines": ["The dust and darkness swallowed every sign;", "No rank could trace the other battle-line."]}, {"id": "B10.8.67", "lines": ["No man could tell his ally from his foe;", "Day sank toward night beneath the dust below."]}, {"id": "B10.9.1", "lines": ["Afrasiab said: “Our fortune fails in fight;", "What once stood firm now sinks from strength to blight."]}, {"id": "B10.9.2", "lines": ["If one man falters where the armies meet,", "No ground remains for us, no safe retreat."]}, {"id": "B10.9.3", "lines": ["Today take leopard-counsel for the fray,", "Rise from all sides and bar the foemen’s way;"]}, {"id": "B10.9.4", "lines": ["Set ambush round them, press them hard and fast,", "And hurl your spears until the day is past.”"]}, {"id": "B10.9.5", "lines": ["He left the center, vengeance in his heart,", "And struck at Tus and tore his line apart;"]}, {"id": "B10.9.6", "lines": ["He struck down chiefs; Tus, shaken by the sight,", "Gave ground at last and turned away from fight."]}, {"id": "B10.9.7", "lines": ["A scout came through the fighting to his side,", "And told how Iran’s right had turned aside:"]}, {"id": "B10.9.8", "lines": ["“The day goes ill; our right is bathed in gore,", "Our banner falls; our line can stand no more.”"]}, {"id": "B10.9.9", "lines": ["Then Rostam from the center forward pressed", "With Faramarz and armored troops abreast;"]}, {"id": "B10.9.10", "lines": ["Before him rose a wall of shielded men,", "Their hostile hearts were set against him then."]}, {"id": "B10.9.11", "lines": ["All were Afrasiab’s kin, assembled near,", "Their hearts on vengeance, armed and free of fear."]}, {"id": "B10.9.12", "lines": ["He struck down many of that hostile horde,", "While Tus and Faramarz beside him warred."]}, {"id": "B10.9.13", "lines": ["Afrasiab beheld the violet sign,", "And Kaveh’s banner cutting through the line,"]}, {"id": "B10.9.14", "lines": ["“This is Rostam, Nariman’s mighty seed,", "Mightiest champion known for warlike deed.”"]}, {"id": "B10.9.15", "lines": ["Like some war-leopard raging for the kill,", "He gripped the reins and rode with iron will."]}, {"id": "B10.9.16", "lines": ["When Rostam saw the dark advancing flag,", "He sprang, a lion loosed upon a stag;"]}, {"id": "B10.9.17", "lines": ["He gave swift Rakhsh the rein and drove him hard,", "And charged through every rank without regard."]}, {"id": "B10.9.18", "lines": ["He closed with Afrasiab in the fight,", "Blood streamed like water from his arrow’s bite."]}, {"id": "B10.9.19", "lines": ["An arrow with a willow-leaf point flew,", "And pierced his helmet’s crown as it drove through."]}, {"id": "B10.9.20", "lines": ["His spear drove hard against the hero’s chest,", "And pierced the leather binding at his vest,"]}, {"id": "B10.9.21", "lines": ["But Babr-e Bayan turned the spear away;", "Then Rostam roared and drove into the fray."]}, {"id": "B10.9.22", "lines": ["He drove his spear into the charger’s flank;", "The wounded horse beneath the thrust then sank."]}, {"id": "B10.9.23", "lines": ["It crashed to earth beneath the fatal blow,", "And hurled Afrasiab from the saddle low."]}, {"id": "B10.9.24", "lines": ["He reached to seize him by the belt and stay", "His road of war before he fled away;"]}, {"id": "B10.9.25", "lines": ["But Houman saw and raised his gorz on high,", "Then charged at Rostam with a battle cry."]}, {"id": "B10.9.26", "lines": ["He struck the hero’s shoulder with the blow,", "Both armies roared as iron thundered low."]}, {"id": "B10.9.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam wheeled to see who dealt the stroke;", "His hold on Afrasiab at once broke."]}, {"id": "B10.9.28", "lines": ["Afrasiab escaped and found another steed,", "And mounted it at once with desperate speed."]}, {"id": "B10.9.29", "lines": ["The chiefs roared out; their heavy gorz all rang,", "And iron answered iron with a clang."]}, {"id": "B10.9.30", "lines": ["Then Rostam drove swift Rakhsh at Houman’s rear,", "His anger hot, his heavy spear held near."]}, {"id": "B10.9.31", "lines": ["He chased Houman, furious in the fight,", "But could not reach him in his headlong flight."]}, {"id": "B10.9.32", "lines": ["His destined hour had not yet come, and so", "Fate shielded Houman from the hero’s blow."]}, {"id": "B10.9.33", "lines": ["Then men of Iran gathered at his side,", "To guard him from each blade the press might hide."]}, {"id": "B10.9.34", "lines": ["By hundred stratagems Houman broke through,", "From Rostam’s dragon-grasp the king he drew."]}, {"id": "B10.9.35", "lines": ["Once Afrasiab was safely drawn away,", "Houman withdrew; Rostam still sought the fray."]}, {"id": "B10.9.36", "lines": ["And Tus came near and asked him, half in jest:", "“Did that Gur-e-Khar strike hard upon your chest?”"]}, {"id": "B10.9.37", "lines": ["He said: “No anvil forged nor stone could stand", "Such crushing force in such a warrior’s hand;"]}, {"id": "B10.9.38", "lines": ["Yet when that gorz descended in the fray,", "It seemed mere wax against my chest today.”"]}, {"id": "B10.9.39", "lines": ["When Afrasiab turned and fled the field,", "His heart still raged, though forced at last to yield."]}, {"id": "B10.9.40", "lines": ["A roar arose; spears climbed into the cloud,", "The fleeing plain resounded fierce and loud."]}, {"id": "B10.9.41", "lines": ["The field lay heaped with wounded men and dead,", "Like tulips over saffron earth turned red."]}, {"id": "B10.9.42", "lines": ["The horses’ hooves went deep through blood and gore,", "The elephants’ feet crimsoned more and more."]}, {"id": "B10.9.43", "lines": ["The Turanians fled like wind across the plain,", "While Rostam’s arm dealt justice in their train."]}, {"id": "B10.9.44", "lines": ["Like a raging dragon Rostam sped,", "Three farsangs after those who turned and fled."]}, {"id": "B10.9.45", "lines": ["Then back he turned, his victory complete;", "For turning heaven opposed the foe’s retreat."]}, {"id": "B10.9.46", "lines": ["They turned to camp with plunder richly won;", "Their laden ranks bore spoil when war was done."]}, {"id": "B10.9.47", "lines": ["The plain held iron, silver, gold, and spear,", "Horse-trappings, salich, belts lay scattered near."]}, {"id": "B10.10.1", "lines": ["When sunrise raised its head above the crest,", "Red ruby light across the darkness pressed."]}, {"id": "B10.10.2", "lines": ["A shout broke out; the karnays rang and roared", "As Rostam led his columns toward the horde."]}, {"id": "B10.10.3", "lines": ["They marched on Afrasiab, vengeance fed,", "Their faces wet with tears for Siavash dead."]}, {"id": "B10.10.4", "lines": ["The king was told that Rostam pressed behind,", "And vengeance thundered hard upon his line."]}, {"id": "B10.10.5", "lines": ["He drew his forces toward Chin’s sea, and found", "The broad earth narrowed, hemming him around."]}, {"id": "B10.10.6", "lines": ["Beyond their sight he drew his fleeing train,", "His heart was stricken, tears ran down like rain."]}, {"id": "B10.10.7", "lines": ["Before he crossed the water in his flight,", "He turned to Piran, burdened by his plight:"]}, {"id": "B10.10.8", "lines": ["“Speak wisely: what course should now be tried", "Concerning this ill-fated child?” he cried."]}, {"id": "B10.10.9", "lines": ["“If Rostam takes the youngster in his hand,", "He will carry him fast to Iran’s land;"]}, {"id": "B10.10.10", "lines": ["They will make this Div-born boy king instead,", "And set a new crown high upon his head."]}, {"id": "B10.10.11", "lines": ["Bring him across the water to this side,", "Then cast him in beneath the turning tide.”"]}, {"id": "B10.10.12", "lines": ["Then Piran said: “Do not be swift to kill;", "A wiser course may yet avert this ill."]}, {"id": "B10.10.13", "lines": ["Remove him far beyond all prying eyes,", "And keep him where no rumor ever flies;"]}, {"id": "B10.10.14", "lines": ["In Khutan’s bounds we keep him out of sight,", "Secure beyond the reach of hostile might."]}, {"id": "B10.10.15", "lines": ["Do not bring lasting blame upon your name,", "Nor add one further evil deed to shame.”"]}, {"id": "B10.10.16", "lines": ["The king replied: “You are the lord of thought,", "My guide toward the good your counsel brought."]}, {"id": "B10.10.17", "lines": ["Now act at once; let no delay be shown,", "Fulfill the course your wisdom now has known.”"]}, {"id": "B10.10.18", "lines": ["Then Piran called a noble to his side,", "And charged him with the task the king supplied."]}, {"id": "B10.10.19", "lines": ["A prudent man of birth and tempered will,", "To fetch the prince and guard the secret still;"]}, {"id": "B10.10.20", "lines": ["He rode like smoke, his horse at headlong pace,", "And reached Khosrow within the appointed place."]}, {"id": "B10.10.21", "lines": ["There farr and royal glory met his eyes,", "The prince bore signs of kingship in his guise."]}, {"id": "B10.10.22", "lines": ["He praised him, bowed, and then, in words well-weighed,", "The royal message faithfully conveyed."]}, {"id": "B10.10.23", "lines": ["The message left no head or footing clear;", "Khosrow stood lost between command and fear."]}, {"id": "B10.10.24", "lines": ["He ran to Farangis and spoke in dismay:", "“The king commands; I cannot disobey."]}, {"id": "B10.10.25", "lines": ["He calls me down toward the distant sea;", "What path remains? What hope is left for me?”"]}, {"id": "B10.10.26", "lines": ["They searched through every counsel they could find,", "But no escape appeared to heart or mind."]}, {"id": "B10.10.27", "lines": ["At last they saw no course except to go,", "No counsel could undo the royal blow."]}, {"id": "B10.10.28", "lines": ["They left unwilling, both with hearts oppressed,", "And grief went with them on the road they pressed."]}, {"id": "B10.10.29", "lines": ["Their eyes stayed full of tears through every stage,", "Their tongues cursed Afrasiab in their rage."]}, {"id": "B10.10.30", "lines": ["At last they reached the gate of Piran’s hall,", "Still worn with grief beneath the journey’s thrall."]}, {"id": "B10.10.31", "lines": ["Piran stepped down from his high seat and sought", "To learn what hardships the long journey brought."]}, {"id": "B10.10.32", "lines": ["He praised and welcomed him, his honored guest,", "And placed him at his side above the rest."]}, {"id": "B10.10.33", "lines": ["Food, robes, and bedding all were quickly laid,", "His tents and steeds with every need arrayed."]}, {"id": "B10.10.34", "lines": ["When all was set, Piran returned to bring", "His tidings to Afrasiab the king."]}, {"id": "B10.10.35", "lines": ["“I brought the farr-endowed and royal boy;", "What further course would you have me employ?”"]}, {"id": "B10.10.36", "lines": ["Afrasiab answered him without delay:", "“Take Khosrow farther still and send him away."]}, {"id": "B10.10.37", "lines": ["Send him beyond the Sea of Chin from here,", "To some far place where no great chief comes near."]}, {"id": "B10.10.38", "lines": ["Let no great chief discover where he stays,", "Nor find one trace along those distant ways.”"]}, {"id": "B10.10.39", "lines": ["Then Piran sent him like the smoke that fled,", "Obeying every word the monarch said."]}, {"id": "B10.10.40", "lines": ["Beyond the farther shore the prince was sent,", "And no one learned the place to which he went."]}, {"id": "B10.11.1", "lines": ["The towering chief drove onward without rest,", "Through Turan to the Sea of Chin he pressed."]}, {"id": "B10.11.2", "lines": ["From Turan’s towns the chiefs and warriors came,", "Before the Pahlevan of mighty fame."]}, {"id": "B10.11.3", "lines": ["Then Rostam took Afrasiab’s royal throne,", "And made the conquered seat at last his own."]}, {"id": "B10.11.4", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s fortune withered and declined,", "While Rostam left the former reign behind."]}, {"id": "B10.11.5", "lines": ["Then Rostam spoke, his words like tempered steel:", "“A man of worth must bring his foe to heel."]}, {"id": "B10.11.6", "lines": ["If hostile foes attack, then strike them dead;", "Or count it well if from the field they fled.”"]}, {"id": "B10.11.7", "lines": ["He searched the palace for its hidden gold;", "The people brought out wealth from every hold:"]}, {"id": "B10.11.8", "lines": ["Young slaves of beauty, horses strong and swift,", "Rich gems and crowns and robes in splendid gift,"]}, {"id": "B10.11.9", "lines": ["Brocades, carved ivory thrones, and treasure vast,", "With hoards from Gang laid open at the last."]}, {"id": "B10.11.10", "lines": ["Dinars and diba lay in ordered store,", "With bargostvan and trappings by the score."]}, {"id": "B10.11.11", "lines": ["The soldiers too were laden down with spoils,", "With armlets, crowns, and headgear from their toils."]}, {"id": "B10.11.12", "lines": ["To Tus he gave the ivory throne and steed,", "A torque, and Chakh to govern as decreed,"]}, {"id": "B10.11.13", "lines": ["And said: “If any rise to challenge you,", "Or seek Afrasiab’s rule to renew,"]}, {"id": "B10.11.14", "lines": ["Strike off his head and raise it up on high;", "Let vultures have him where his carcass lies."]}, {"id": "B10.11.15", "lines": ["Who seeks for wisdom, peace, and what is right,", "Will shun Ahriman’s road and choose the light."]}, {"id": "B10.11.16", "lines": ["But cherish such men as your children dear,", "And keep them free from want and grief and fear."]}, {"id": "B10.11.17", "lines": ["Do not oppress the blameless; hold the scale,", "And let your justice never faint or fail."]}, {"id": "B10.11.18", "lines": ["This world is a lodging, not a lasting throne;", "No one has ever held it as his own."]}, {"id": "B10.11.19", "lines": ["No farr surpassed great Jamshid’s sovereign light,", "High heaven raised him to the world’s full height.”"]}, {"id": "B10.11.20", "lines": ["Then to Gudarz, veteran of the field,", "He gave a crown no lesser king could wield,"]}, {"id": "B10.11.21", "lines": ["A torque, throne, earrings, gifts of royal grace,", "And Sipanjab with fortress as his place."]}, {"id": "B10.11.22", "lines": ["He praised Gudarz and blessed his honored name,", "A pure-hearted Pahlevan of fame."]}, {"id": "B10.11.23", "lines": ["And said: “The seal of justice rests with you;", "In feast and war your worth is proven true."]}, {"id": "B10.11.24", "lines": ["Birth may assist, but worth must lead the way;", "True rank is forged in deeds, not in display."]}, {"id": "B10.11.25", "lines": ["In honar, gohar, wisdom you combine,", "Three gifts that make your honored spirit shine."]}, {"id": "B10.11.26", "lines": ["Take counsel; keep your fathers’ greatness near,", "And stand as their memorial bright and clear."]}, {"id": "B10.11.27", "lines": ["Let all from Sipanjab to Gulzaryun", "Obey your word beneath both sun and moon.”"]}, {"id": "B10.11.28", "lines": ["To Fariborz he sent a crown of gold,", "With dinars, gems, and riches from the hold,"]}, {"id": "B10.11.29", "lines": ["And said: “Chief, Siavash, your brother, died;", "His vengeance now must never be denied."]}, {"id": "B10.11.30", "lines": ["For your slain brother, gird your waist and stand;", "Keep fast beside your saddle your kamand."]}, {"id": "B10.11.31", "lines": ["Do not give way to comfort, rest, or sleep;", "Make war upon him; justice you must keep."]}, {"id": "B10.11.32", "lines": ["Let justice through the world direct your way;", "No man through justice ever went astray.”"]}, {"id": "B10.11.33", "lines": ["Through Machin and through Chin the tidings came,", "That Rostam ruled and all obeyed his name."]}, {"id": "B10.11.34", "lines": ["They came with gold and jewels in their hands,", "And said: “We serve and follow your commands;"]}, {"id": "B10.11.35", "lines": ["We walk the earth to carry out your will.”", "The chief then saw their loyalty and skill;"]}, {"id": "B10.11.36", "lines": ["He granted zanhar, spared them from the blade,", "Their wakeful minds had won the pledge he made."]}, {"id": "B10.11.37", "lines": ["With cheetah and with falcon he would ride,", "And hunt across the plains on every side."]}, {"id": "B10.11.38", "lines": ["A long time passed beneath his settled reign,", "While Rostam held dominion on the plain."]}, {"id": "B10.12.1", "lines": ["One day Zavareh rode the open plain,", "To hunt the Gur-e-Khar, and gave the rein."]}, {"id": "B10.12.2", "lines": ["He set a Turk before him as his guide,", "And followed swiftly over country wide."]}, {"id": "B10.12.3", "lines": ["They reached a thicket spread across the ground,", "So dense no passable way could be found."]}, {"id": "B10.12.4", "lines": ["With colors, scents, and running streams around,", "The soul drew nourishment where joys abound."]}, {"id": "B10.12.5", "lines": ["The Turk spoke out without a guarded thought:", "“This is the ground Prince Siavash once sought."]}, {"id": "B10.12.6", "lines": ["For this fair place he held all Turan dear;", "His heart found joy whenever he was here."]}, {"id": "B10.12.7", "lines": ["Here he was glad, his heart released from care;", "Elsewhere his days were burdened by despair.”"]}, {"id": "B10.12.8", "lines": ["These words struck deep and woke long-buried grief;", "Old wounds broke open, finding no relief."]}, {"id": "B10.12.9", "lines": ["The words struck home; he toppled from his horse,", "And consciousness was lost beneath their force."]}, {"id": "B10.12.10", "lines": ["A falcon rested lightly in his hand;", "He loosed it; blood-red tears fell on the land."]}, {"id": "B10.12.11", "lines": ["His comrades reached him on the hunting-ground,", "And grief and tears upon his face they found."]}, {"id": "B10.12.12", "lines": ["They cursed the Turk who served him as their guide,", "And each man struck and cast him to one side."]}, {"id": "B10.12.13", "lines": ["He swore a solemn oath in grief and pain,", "While tears poured freely from his eyes like rain."]}, {"id": "B10.12.14", "lines": ["“From now I seek no hunt, no sleep, no peace,", "Till Afrasiab’s death brings my release."]}, {"id": "B10.12.15", "lines": ["I will not let Rostam rest from battle’s call;", "For vengeance we must arm ourselves, one and all.”"]}, {"id": "B10.12.16", "lines": ["At once he went to Rostam, grief still high,", "And when he saw his face he raised a cry:"]}, {"id": "B10.12.17", "lines": ["“Did we come here to grant this kingdom peace,", "Or make its pride and false dominion cease?"]}, {"id": "B10.12.18", "lines": ["God granted strength and fortune to your hand;", "The turning sun has favored your command."]}, {"id": "B10.12.19", "lines": ["Why should this realm keep wealth and easy life?", "Why should one soul in it live free of strife?"]}, {"id": "B10.12.20", "lines": ["Forget not vengeance for that murdered king;", "A hundred ages no such peer will bring.”"]}, {"id": "B10.13.1", "lines": ["Roused by Zavareh’s words, great Rostam stood,", "And chose the course his judgment counted good."]}, {"id": "B10.13.2", "lines": ["Then killing, plunder swept from plain to plain,", "And Turan groaned beneath the scourging train."]}, {"id": "B10.13.3", "lines": ["From Turan down to Chin, through fire and flame, ", "No city on the border stood the same."]}, {"id": "B10.13.4", "lines": ["The Iranians slew the young and slew the old,", "Their severed heads lay on the earth grown cold."]}, {"id": "B10.13.5", "lines": ["The women and the children fell as prey,", "For more than a thousand farsangs ruin lay."]}, {"id": "B10.13.6", "lines": ["At last the nobles, broken, bowed in dust,", "Came forth to plead, stripped bare of hope and trust:"]}, {"id": "B10.13.7", "lines": ["“Of Afrasiab’s rule we had our fill;", "Not even in dreams would we see him still."]}, {"id": "B10.13.8", "lines": ["The blood he shed unjustly was his crime;", "We held no voice nor share in that dark time."]}, {"id": "B10.13.9", "lines": ["Though gathered here or scattered through the land,", "We are your servants, subject to your hand."]}, {"id": "B10.13.10", "lines": ["Now you are victor; spill no guiltless gore;", "Do not make war with turning heaven more."]}, {"id": "B10.13.11", "lines": ["No man can tell where Afrasiab flies,", "Or in a dragon’s maw he lives or dies.”"]}, {"id": "B10.13.12", "lines": ["Wise Rostam heard; his prudent heart was stirred,", "And grief came over him at every word."]}, {"id": "B10.13.13", "lines": ["He sought the royal camp upon the plain, ", "And summoned every captain of his train."]}, {"id": "B10.13.14", "lines": ["The seasoned chiefs assembled at his call,", "The wise and battle-tested warriors all."]}, {"id": "B10.13.15", "lines": ["Then one among them spoke with measured tone:", "“Kavus, without farr or guide, sits on the throne."]}, {"id": "B10.13.16", "lines": ["He lacks the strength to stand, the mind to guide;", "If Afrasiab comes in force and pride,"]}, {"id": "B10.13.17", "lines": ["And strikes at Iran with a sudden blow,", "The old king falls, and all our hopes lie low."]}, {"id": "B10.13.18", "lines": ["We took revenge, and honor crowns our name;", "And burned each city down to ash and flame."]}, {"id": "B10.13.19", "lines": ["Now let us turn again to Iran’s king,", "And rise renewed when future battles ring."]}, {"id": "B10.13.20", "lines": ["For six long years we have not known release;", "Not one glad day has brought our spirits peace."]}, {"id": "B10.13.21", "lines": ["Our servants, throne, our seal and crown remain,", "In Iran, not upon this foreign plain."]}, {"id": "B10.13.22", "lines": ["Our bodies shine with wealth and rich array;", "Our souls grow less the longer here we stay."]}, {"id": "B10.13.23", "lines": ["This worldly dwelling courts us with a smile,", "Then hides its face and snares the heart with guile."]}, {"id": "B10.13.24", "lines": ["Do not regard this dwelling as a friend,", "Unless with Ahriman your counsels blend."]}, {"id": "B10.13.25", "lines": ["Wear what you have, give freely, drink and eat;", "This passing road grants only such a treat.”"]}, {"id": "B10.13.26", "lines": ["Tahamtan gave assent to what was said; ", "The wise Mobadan nodded where he led."]}, {"id": "B10.13.27", "lines": ["A veteran sage cried out: “Now choose delight! ", "While life is ours, let joy remain in sight."]}, {"id": "B10.13.28", "lines": ["See who will share the dust in which you lie;", "Why grieve for wealth you leave behind and die?”"]}, {"id": "B10.14.1", "lines": ["Great Rostam heard their counsel, shamed at heart,", "And turned at once from Turan to depart."]}, {"id": "B10.14.2", "lines": ["He gathered herds of horses from each side,", "That roamed the plains of Turan loose and wide."]}, {"id": "B10.14.3", "lines": ["Ten thousand slaves and servants formed the train,", "And marched beside the spoils across the plain."]}, {"id": "B10.14.4", "lines": ["With musk and marten, squirrel, ermine stored,", "And kamil furs among the treasure hoard."]}, {"id": "B10.14.5", "lines": ["With color, fragrance, golden diba bright,", "They loaded elephants with wealth in sight."]}, {"id": "B10.14.6", "lines": ["With furnishings and robes of rich design,", "With gold and silver gathered line by line."]}, {"id": "B10.14.7", "lines": ["With swords and salich, crowns and royal throne,", "They packed the loads and claimed them as their own."]}, {"id": "B10.14.8", "lines": ["They packed their loads and turned from Turan’s plain,", "For Zabulistan, where Zal held his reign."]}, {"id": "B10.14.9", "lines": ["Then Tus and Gudarz, Giv of proven fame,", "With troops toward Fars in ordered columns came."]}, {"id": "B10.14.10", "lines": ["Then toward the Shah the gathered chiefs would ride,", "And came before the king in ordered pride."]}, {"id": "B10.14.11", "lines": ["When Afrasiab heard the news one day,", "That Tus and Rostam crossed the stream away,"]}, {"id": "B10.14.12", "lines": ["From Bakhtar toward the Sea of Gang he pressed,", "His head with war, revenge within his breast."]}, {"id": "B10.14.13", "lines": ["He found the land laid waste on every side,", "The nobles slain, the lesser people died."]}, {"id": "B10.14.14", "lines": ["No horse, no treasure, crown, or throne was found,", "No flourishing palace graced the ground."]}, {"id": "B10.14.15", "lines": ["The world was blazing; fires rose all about;", "The palaces uprooted, burned, snuffed out."]}, {"id": "B10.14.16", "lines": ["The king wept blood and called his captains near:", "“Forget no wrong that brought this ruin here."]}, {"id": "B10.14.17", "lines": ["Let vengeance fill each heart within your breast;", "Make shields your beds, your helmets where you rest."]}, {"id": "B10.14.18", "lines": ["Bring heaven down to earth beneath our blow,", "And carry war to Iran as we go."]}, {"id": "B10.14.19", "lines": ["For land, for children, treasure, and our kin,", "We fight until our ravaged realm we win."]}, {"id": "B10.14.20", "lines": ["Let Iran’s cities rise from shore to shore;", "Then march like lions where the war-cries roar."]}, {"id": "B10.14.21", "lines": ["Why shrink because they won a single day?", "The wind will shift and tear their strength away."]}, {"id": "B10.14.22", "lines": ["From every side bring weapons, troops, and spear;", "Open a fresh road to the battle here.”"]}, {"id": "B10.14.23", "lines": ["He gathered ranks with spear and salich bright,", "And armed his warriors swiftly for the fight."]}, {"id": "B10.14.24", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab himself rode at their head,", "Toward Iran for vengeance as they sped."]}, {"id": "B10.14.25", "lines": ["They struck hard at Iran from every side,", "No respite came while raid on raid replied."]}, {"id": "B10.14.26", "lines": ["They burned the towns and stripped the forests bare,", "And drove the land to anguish and despair."]}, {"id": "B10.14.27", "lines": ["For seven years no rain refreshed the plain,", "And fortune turned; the old course broke in pain."]}, {"id": "B10.14.28", "lines": ["All men were crushed by hunger, grief, and need,", "The world grew strait beneath that bitter deed."]}, {"id": "B10.14.29", "lines": ["And long this harsh condition held the land,", "While misery endured on every hand."]}, {"id": "B10.14.30", "lines": ["While Rostam stayed in Zabul, far away,", "The sword-wielding Turk held the world in sway."]}, {"id": "B10.15.1", "lines": ["One night Gudarz beheld a swelling cloud,", "Rise water-laden from the cloudy shroud."]}, {"id": "B10.15.2", "lines": ["Upon that flying cloud Soroush drew near,", "And bade old Gudarz open both his ears:"]}, {"id": "B10.15.3", "lines": ["“Attend: the famed Turk, dragon-like, brings pain;", "Hear how to break his power and end his reign."]}, {"id": "B10.15.4", "lines": ["A sovereign now in Turan comes to view;", "Kay Khosrow is his name, a prince born true."]}, {"id": "B10.15.5", "lines": ["The son of Siavash, a sovereign born,", "With honar, famed in gohar, richly worn."]}, {"id": "B10.15.6", "lines": ["From Kay Qobad his father’s lineage came,", "Through Tur his mother bore a royal name."]}, {"id": "B10.15.7", "lines": ["When his blessed foot shall reach Iran’s land,", "Whatever he asks heaven will grant his hand."]}, {"id": "B10.15.8", "lines": ["He arms himself, his father’s fall to mourn,", "And vows the towers of Tur shall lie shorn."]}, {"id": "B10.15.9", "lines": ["He shall make Qolzum’s waters boil in fight,", "Nor turn from Afrasiab day or night."]}, {"id": "B10.15.10", "lines": ["In jowshan, bent on vengeance, he shall ride,", "In ceaseless battle, to his saddle tied."]}, {"id": "B10.15.11", "lines": ["Yet none among the chiefs of Iran’s band", "Shall find him out or bring him to this land,"]}, {"id": "B10.15.12", "lines": ["Save Giv alone; high heaven has decreed", "That only he shall find the king you need."]}, {"id": "B10.15.13", "lines": ["To Giv has turning heaven fixed this call,", "And through its justice grants him grace withal.”"]}, {"id": "B10.15.14", "lines": ["Gudarz awoke and bowed his aged head,", "And thanked the God who showed the path ahead."]}, {"id": "B10.15.15", "lines": ["He rubbed his white beard in the dust below,", "His heart with hope in the world’s king aglow."]}, {"id": "B10.15.16", "lines": ["At dawn the sun rose like a golden light;", "He took his ivory throne, the eyvan bright."]}, {"id": "B10.15.17", "lines": ["Then summoned Giv with troubled thought and care,", "And told the dream with weight and solemn air:"]}, {"id": "B10.15.18", "lines": ["“Your steps are blessed, your fortune bright and sure,", "Your star ascends, both steadfast and secure."]}, {"id": "B10.15.19", "lines": ["Since your pure-hearted mother gave you birth,", "Praise and blessing filled the whole of earth."]}, {"id": "B10.15.20", "lines": ["By God’s command Soroush appeared on high,", "On wind and rain to wash grief from the sky."]}, {"id": "B10.15.21", "lines": ["He asked: ‘Why does such grief now multiply?", "Why vengeance everywhere, the whole world dry?"]}, {"id": "B10.15.22", "lines": ["Because Kavus lacks farr and sovereign might,", "And strays from kingship’s old and proper right."]}, {"id": "B10.15.23", "lines": ["But when Kay Khosrow comes from Turan’s land,", "He turns revenge against the hostile band."]}, {"id": "B10.15.24", "lines": ["Yet none among the chiefs shall find the heir", "Except for you; this charge is yours to bear.’"]}, {"id": "B10.15.25", "lines": ["So heaven points to you; fulfill your part,", "And lift the grief that weighs on every heart."]}, {"id": "B10.15.26", "lines": ["You sought for honor long in fields of war;", "Now greater fame stands waiting at your door."]}, {"id": "B10.15.27", "lines": ["While men and speech endure, so shall your name;", "No age can dim or wear away its fame."]}, {"id": "B10.15.28", "lines": ["Through toil come treasure, honor, and renown;", "Through toil a humble man may win a crown."]}, {"id": "B10.15.29", "lines": ["Since none can dwell forever in this place,", "True fame outlives the fleeting world we face."]}, {"id": "B10.15.30", "lines": ["You bring a king to claim the rightful throne,", "And raise the tree of loyalty full-grown.”"]}, {"id": "B10.15.31", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “My father, I am yours;", "For you I stand through all that life endures."]}, {"id": "B10.15.32", "lines": ["If this be so, I gladly take the task;", "Your blessing is the only boon I ask.”"]}, {"id": "B10.15.33", "lines": ["He rose at once to plan the road ahead,", "Still pondering the words that Gudarz said."]}, {"id": "B10.15.34", "lines": ["Now Giv’s own wife was of a lineage high,", "Born of great Rostam’s blood beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B10.15.35", "lines": ["News reached Banu Gashasp without delay:", "Giv had prepared his horse to ride away."]}, {"id": "B10.15.36", "lines": ["She came to him and spoke in steady tone:", "“O fame-seeking chief, hear what I have known."]}, {"id": "B10.15.37", "lines": ["I hear through Turan you seek Khosrow’s trace;", "Then grant me leave to journey from this place."]}, {"id": "B10.15.38", "lines": ["To Rostam’s house I long to make my way,", "For absence weighs upon my heart each day."]}, {"id": "B10.15.39", "lines": ["Too long denied the comfort of his sight,", "My soul has lived in shadow, not in light."]}, {"id": "B10.15.40", "lines": ["Farewell; may fortune guard you as you go,", "Stay champions’ support against the foe.”"]}, {"id": "B10.15.41", "lines": ["The chieftain gave consent; she left his side,", "And set out for Sistan with steady stride."]}, {"id": "B10.16.1", "lines": ["At sunrise earth shone green with fenugreek,", "As light spread gold from every ridge and peak."]}, {"id": "B10.16.2", "lines": ["Bold Giv came girded, ready for the ride,", "His wind-swift horse stood saddled at his side."]}, {"id": "B10.16.3", "lines": ["Then Gudarz asked, “What purpose drives your way?", "Who rides beside you on the road today?”"]}, {"id": "B10.16.4", "lines": ["He said, “O Gudarz, steadfast, brave, and wise,", "Whose noble spirit shines before our eyes,"]}, {"id": "B10.16.5", "lines": ["My horse and coiled kamand are all I need;", "No other man shall ride beside my steed."]}, {"id": "B10.16.6", "lines": ["If men ride with me, pursuers draw near;", "And then I may be forced to battle here."]}, {"id": "B10.16.7", "lines": ["My kamand at the saddle, swift my mount,", "In Indian silk, the gear on which I count."]}, {"id": "B10.16.8", "lines": ["I make the plains and mountains my domain,", "Until a guide appears upon the plain."]}, {"id": "B10.16.9", "lines": ["Through no town will I pass along my track;", "They will know my face and bring ruin back."]}, {"id": "B10.16.10", "lines": ["Through your good fortune, if my task is done,", "I shall return with joy beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B10.16.11", "lines": ["Keep little Bijan sheltered in your care,", "And guard him well from what the years may bear."]}, {"id": "B10.16.12", "lines": ["Teach him the arts of battle, court, and field;", "Train him to know when sword or cup to wield."]}, {"id": "B10.16.13", "lines": ["Though a child, I have seen his spirit rise;", "The marks of manhood stand before my eyes."]}, {"id": "B10.16.14", "lines": ["Farewell; remember me, but set grief aside;", "Let not my absence cloud the light inside."]}, {"id": "B10.16.15", "lines": ["I cannot say if we shall meet again;", "God’s hidden will lies past the minds of men."]}, {"id": "B10.16.16", "lines": ["When you wash your face and kneel down to pray,", "Ask the Creator to protect my way."]}, {"id": "B10.16.17", "lines": ["For He is higher than all worldly fame;", "The greatest lords are servants of His name."]}, {"id": "B10.16.18", "lines": ["No day revolves except beneath His will;", "Our sleep and food obey His order still."]}, {"id": "B10.16.19", "lines": ["He formed the earth, the heavens, time and place;", "The strong and weak alike reveal His trace."]}, {"id": "B10.16.20", "lines": ["In Him lie hope and fear, and all our birth;", "Lord of the water, fire, wind, and earth."]}, {"id": "B10.16.21", "lines": ["Perhaps the Just will guide me where I go,", "And lead me to that lord whom all men know.”"]}, {"id": "B10.16.22", "lines": ["The father aged, young the warrior bold;", "His mouth for war stood open, none could hold."]}, {"id": "B10.16.23", "lines": ["He knew not if his son would meet his eyes;", "His heart was overturned by their goodbyes."]}, {"id": "B10.16.24", "lines": ["Then Giv dismounted, took his father’s hand,", "And kissed it as the aged chief did stand."]}, {"id": "B10.16.25", "lines": ["The father clasped him tightly to his breast,", "And kissed his face and head before the quest."]}, {"id": "B10.16.26", "lines": ["Old Gudarz cried, “O Just One, lend Your aid;", "To You alone my prayer and grief are laid."]}, {"id": "B10.16.27", "lines": ["His mind, his soul, his life I give to You,", "This famed young son, courageous, strong, and true."]}, {"id": "B10.16.28", "lines": ["Release our land from hardship and despair;", "Return my youthful son into my care.”"]}, {"id": "B10.16.29", "lines": ["How many hardships men have learned to bear,", "For greatness they have chosen toil to share."]}, {"id": "B10.16.30", "lines": ["At last no bed remains except the dust;", "No nush-daru can cure its fatal thrust."]}, {"id": "B10.16.31", "lines": ["You know you cannot linger long below;", "Why crown your head with greed before you go?"]}, {"id": "B10.16.32", "lines": ["The greed you cherish also meets the grave;", "The pit will swallow all you sought to save."]}, {"id": "B10.16.33", "lines": ["Enough of fleeting joys the world can yield,", "When others reap the harvest of your field."]}, {"id": "B10.16.34", "lines": ["You labor while another takes his ease;", "He will not seek your grave when labors cease."]}, {"id": "B10.16.35", "lines": ["His joy too ends; the dust will claim his head;", "His laughter joins the silence of the dead."]}, {"id": "B10.16.36", "lines": ["Then think how swiftly every day must pass,", "Let worship of the Just One hold you fast."]}, {"id": "B10.16.37", "lines": ["However long you stay, you must depart;", "No road returns once death has claimed the heart."]}, {"id": "B10.16.38", "lines": ["Choose goodness; never cause another pain;", "Salvation’s road is this, both clear and plain."]}, {"id": "B10.16.39", "lines": ["Set not your heart upon this passing sphere;", "It will not stay forever with you here."]}, {"id": "B10.16.40", "lines": ["Wise heart, wake now and leave all doubt behind;", "Pull free your foot from mire and clear your mind."]}, {"id": "B10.16.41", "lines": ["The Maker is the One who fashions you;", "You are His handiwork and servant too."]}, {"id": "B10.16.42", "lines": ["When wisdom bows your neck before His might,", "Do not dispute existence in His sight."]}, {"id": "B10.16.43", "lines": ["Do not break bread or sleep with those who claim", "That God does not exist beyond a name."]}, {"id": "B10.16.44", "lines": ["His heart is blind, his head has lost its guide;", "The wise no longer count him at their side."]}, {"id": "B10.16.45", "lines": ["His signs of presence shine on earth and sea;", "Let knowledge keep your nature clear and free."]}, {"id": "B10.16.46", "lines": ["All power and knowledge are His to command;", "He fashioned soul and reason with His hand."]}, {"id": "B10.16.47", "lines": ["When Turan’s ruler thought within his breast,", "“I rise above the greatest and the best,”"]}, {"id": "B10.16.48", "lines": ["He slew that youthful prince in lawless pride,", "Then harsh and bitter fortune turned its tide."]}, {"id": "B10.16.49", "lines": ["From his own stock the Maker raised a tree,", "Its boughs grew heavy for the world to see."]}, {"id": "B10.16.50", "lines": ["That tree repaid him as his deeds had earned,", "And dust through brain and royal eyvan churned."]}, {"id": "B10.16.51", "lines": ["He rules the sun, and Saturn, and the moon,", "From Him come victory and royal boon."]}, {"id": "B10.16.52", "lines": ["Source of existence, source of truth and right,", "From Him come gain and loss, increase and blight."]}, {"id": "B10.16.53", "lines": ["No road lies outside His command and plan;", "The sun and moon cannot His wisdom span."]}, {"id": "B10.16.54", "lines": ["By His command bold Giv his waist then bound,", "And came like some fierce lion to the ground."]}, {"id": "B10.16.55", "lines": ["Alone he went, no comrade at his side,", "His sheltered life to God he would confide."]}, {"id": "B10.16.56", "lines": ["He rode until he reached Turan’s frontier,", "And seized each lone man who would venture near."]}, {"id": "B10.16.57", "lines": ["In Turkish, he would question captured men,", "And ask where Kay Khosrow was dwelling then."]}, {"id": "B10.16.58", "lines": ["If one replied, “I have no news to tell,”", "Giv struck him dead, and where he stood he fell."]}, {"id": "B10.16.59", "lines": ["He hung the corpse within his kamand’s bend,", "Then heaped the earth above him at the end."]}, {"id": "B10.16.60", "lines": ["So none could learn his secret or his name,", "Nor hear report of how the stranger came."]}, {"id": "B10.16.61", "lines": ["At length he chose a traveler for guide,", "And brought him on the journey at his side."]}, {"id": "B10.16.62", "lines": ["Alert, he journeyed with him day by day,", "But kept his secret hidden on the way."]}, {"id": "B10.16.63", "lines": ["One day he said, “One answer I require;", "Speak truth to me and earn what you desire."]}, {"id": "B10.16.64", "lines": ["If what you know proves truthful from the start,", "Your knowledge may wash falsehood from the heart."]}, {"id": "B10.16.65", "lines": ["Whatever you may ask, I will provide;", "Not life nor body shall from you be denied.”"]}, {"id": "B10.16.66", "lines": ["The guide replied, “Knowledge is vast and deep,", "But scattered among men, for each to keep."]}, {"id": "B10.16.67", "lines": ["If I possess the answer that you seek,", "You will not find me empty when I speak.”"]}, {"id": "B10.16.68", "lines": ["Giv asked, “Where is Kay Khosrow now concealed?", "Speak truth to me, and let it stand revealed.”"]}, {"id": "B10.16.69", "lines": ["He answered, “Never have I heard that name,", "Nor has another asked me of the same.”"]}, {"id": "B10.16.70", "lines": ["At that reply, Giv swung his sword around,", "And with one stroke he cast him to the ground."]}, {"id": "B10.17.1", "lines": ["Like one gone mad, brave Giv searched far and wide,", "For signs of where the hidden prince might hide."]}, {"id": "B10.17.2", "lines": ["Seven long years he wandered without rest,", "While sword and girdle galled him, sore oppressed."]}, {"id": "B10.17.3", "lines": ["Fed on Gur-e-Khar, in their hides he fared,", "And drank salt water all the wild had spared."]}, {"id": "B10.17.4", "lines": ["Through desert lands and mountain paths he went,", "In ceaseless toil, his days in exile spent."]}, {"id": "B10.17.5", "lines": ["Far from all men, in hardship and in pain,", "He roamed the wild with nothing left to gain."]}, {"id": "B10.17.6", "lines": ["At that same time, bold Rostam crossed the tide,", "And brought his army to the nearer side."]}, {"id": "B10.17.7", "lines": ["Afrasiab returned to Gang, his hold,", "And seized again the realm he ruled of old."]}, {"id": "B10.17.8", "lines": ["He said to Piran: “Bring the prince away", "From Machin; to his mother take him straightaway."]}, {"id": "B10.17.9", "lines": ["But guard the roads and watch each hidden trail;", "Let none pass through; let vigilance prevail.”"]}, {"id": "B10.17.10", "lines": ["A messenger rode forth on camel strong,", "And brought the son of Siavash along."]}, {"id": "B10.17.11", "lines": ["The prudent son of Siavash came home,", "Back to the land where he once used to roam."]}, {"id": "B10.17.12", "lines": ["They brought him home to where his mother stayed,", "And peaceful years rolled on, his fears allayed."]}, {"id": "B10.17.13", "lines": ["Time passed while Giv still wandered, worn and torn,", "Through Turan’s lands in grief and sorrow borne."]}, {"id": "B10.17.14", "lines": ["One day, weighed down by anxious thought and care,", "He reached a fruitful grove, abundant, fair."]}, {"id": "B10.17.15", "lines": ["He wandered through the meadow, pale and worn,", "While all the world seemed bright, his heart forlorn."]}, {"id": "B10.17.16", "lines": ["The earth lay green, the streams ran full and wide,", "A place for rest and ease on every side."]}, {"id": "B10.17.17", "lines": ["He loosed his horse and let it roam at will,", "Then slept upon the ground, and troubled still."]}, {"id": "B10.17.18", "lines": ["He said: “Did some evil Div deceive his sight,", "And dress Gudarz’s dream in seeming right?"]}, {"id": "B10.17.19", "lines": ["No trace I find of Khosrow anywhere;", "What profit lies in all this fruitless care?"]}, {"id": "B10.17.20", "lines": ["While comrades fight and feast in distant lands,", "And chase their joy or fame at fate’s commands,"]}, {"id": "B10.17.21", "lines": ["My fortune, like a walnut on a dome,", "Can never rest, nor find a settled home."]}, {"id": "B10.17.22", "lines": ["I waste my life; my back bends like a bow;", "My fruitless labor brings me only woe."]}, {"id": "B10.17.23", "lines": ["Perhaps no prince was ever born below,", "Or time has cast him where no man can go."]}, {"id": "B10.17.24", "lines": ["This quest has yielded hardship, grief, and pain;", "Blessed the one whom poison frees from strain.”"]}, {"id": "B10.17.25", "lines": ["With sorrow in his heart he roamed the plain,", "Still searching meadows, restless and in vain."]}, {"id": "B10.17.26", "lines": ["At last beside a shining stream he saw", "A youth whose beauty filled his soul with awe."]}, {"id": "B10.17.27", "lines": ["Tall as a cypress, wine cup in his hand,", "A many-colored wreath above him spanned."]}, {"id": "B10.17.28", "lines": ["His bearing showed the farr of royal right,", "And wisdom’s banner shone before Giv’s sight."]}, {"id": "B10.17.29", "lines": ["He seemed Siavash, living and restored,", "On ivory throne, with crown of royal lord."]}, {"id": "B10.17.30", "lines": ["The scent of love arose from that bright face,", "His locks seemed made a royal crown to grace."]}, {"id": "B10.17.31", "lines": ["Giv thought: “This is the prince I sought to see;", "That royal seat is made for such as he.”"]}, {"id": "B10.17.32", "lines": ["He left his horse and went on foot ahead,", "While hope revived the spirit he thought dead."]}, {"id": "B10.17.33", "lines": ["As nearer still he came, his grief withdrew;", "The knot of seven years of sorrow flew."]}, {"id": "B10.17.34", "lines": ["The treasure long concealed now met his eyes,", "His years of sacrifice earned this great prize."]}, {"id": "B10.17.35", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw him standing by the stream,", "His heart grew glad as one awaked from dream."]}, {"id": "B10.17.36", "lines": ["He smiled and thought: “This must be Giv the brave,", "The man foretold, who comes my life to save."]}, {"id": "B10.17.37", "lines": ["Such form and bearing show a spirit high;", "He comes to lead me home to Iran’s sky.”"]}, {"id": "B10.17.38", "lines": ["The prince stepped forward from his resting place,", "And spoke with calm assurance, face to face:"]}, {"id": "B10.17.39", "lines": ["“O Giv, well met, with farr and justice bright;", "How did you cross this border in your flight?"]}, {"id": "B10.17.40", "lines": ["What news of Tus, Gudarz, and Kavus’s throne?", "Are they all well, and is my name still known?"]}, {"id": "B10.17.41", "lines": ["What of brave Rostam, towering in his might,", "And Zal, and all who stand prepared to fight?”"]}, {"id": "B10.17.42", "lines": ["Giv heard these words and stood transfixed with awe,", "Then praised the God whose guiding hand he saw."]}, {"id": "B10.17.43", "lines": ["He said: “O noble chief, exalted one,", "All hearts still yearn for you, long-lost king’s son."]}, {"id": "B10.17.44", "lines": ["You are the son of Siavash; now I know", "Kayanian blood and Khosrow’s farr you show."]}, {"id": "B10.17.45", "lines": ["But tell me, noble prince, and answer true:", "Who spoke of Gudarz and his house to you?"]}, {"id": "B10.17.46", "lines": ["Who spoke of Keshvad, who of Giv? Who brought", "These names to you? What faithful tongue has taught?”"]}, {"id": "B10.17.47", "lines": ["The prince replied: “My mother told me all,", "When my dear father faced his final fall."]}, {"id": "B10.17.48", "lines": ["My father spoke, his God-given farr still bright,", "And gave his final counsel at grief’s height:"]}, {"id": "B10.17.49", "lines": ["He told my mother all that fate would send,", "The evil that would reach us in the end."]}, {"id": "B10.17.50", "lines": ["‘At last Kay Khosrow shall arise and reign,", "The key that opens every binding chain."]}, {"id": "B10.17.51", "lines": ["Then famed and valiant Giv shall Turan find,", "And come from Iran with his task in mind."]}, {"id": "B10.17.52", "lines": ["From Iran’s land to lead him to the throne,", "And make his royal worth and power known."]}, {"id": "B10.17.53", "lines": ["His strength shall cleanse the world and right each wrong,", "And vengeance shall be his, both just and strong.’”"]}, {"id": "B10.17.54", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “O head of all the great,", "What sign confirms the farr that marks your state?"]}, {"id": "B10.17.55", "lines": ["Siavash bore a dark and royal sign,", "Like one black spot within a rose design."]}, {"id": "B10.17.56", "lines": ["Reveal your arm and let me plainly see", "The sign that proves your noble pedigree.”"]}, {"id": "B10.17.57", "lines": ["The prince then bared his arm without delay,", "And showed the royal birthmark clear as day."]}, {"id": "B10.17.58", "lines": ["A dark birthmark from Kay Qobad’s old line,", "A Kayanian token, clear in its design."]}, {"id": "B10.17.59", "lines": ["When Giv beheld the sign, he bowed to earth;", "His tears proclaimed the truth of Khosrow’s birth."]}, {"id": "B10.17.60", "lines": ["Giv clasped the Shah and blessed his royal name;", "And joy rose in his heart like sudden flame."]}, {"id": "B10.17.61", "lines": ["The prince gave thanks and asked of Iran’s state,", "Of throne and kings, of warriors and fate."]}, {"id": "B10.17.62", "lines": ["Of Rostam fierce, and Gudarz wise and old,", "And how the chiefs of Iran’s realm might hold."]}, {"id": "B10.17.63", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “O lord of fortune bright,", "If God showed Paradise before my sight,"]}, {"id": "B10.17.64", "lines": ["And gave the seven climes beneath my hand,", "With Kayanian crown and high command,"]}, {"id": "B10.17.65", "lines": ["Though crown and throne and all dominion were mine,", "No gift could make my heart so brightly shine."]}, {"id": "B10.17.66", "lines": ["To see your face here in this foreign land", "Surpasses wealth and power, however grand."]}, {"id": "B10.17.67", "lines": ["None knows in Iran whether I survive,", "Or lie beneath the earth, or burn alive."]}, {"id": "B10.17.68", "lines": ["If I could see Siavash alive again,", "I would ask him what grief he suffered then."]}, {"id": "B10.17.69", "lines": ["But thanks to God, who brought my toil to end,", "And turned my grief to joy, my heart to mend.”"]}, {"id": "B10.17.70", "lines": ["Together then they left that wood, and straight,", "Khosrow then asked of Kavus and his state,"]}, {"id": "B10.17.71", "lines": ["Of seven years of hardship, food, and sleep,", "And all the grief his lonely road made deep."]}, {"id": "B10.17.72", "lines": ["Giv told what God had set beneath the sky,", "The dream, his food and garb, the years gone by."]}, {"id": "B10.17.73", "lines": ["How Kavus’s farr had faded from its height,", "And grief had stripped the aging Shah of might;"]}, {"id": "B10.17.74", "lines": ["How Iran’s color, fragrance, wealth had fled,", "And ruin spread where prosperous life had led."]}, {"id": "B10.17.75", "lines": ["Khosrow’s heart burned to hear such sorrow told,", "His cheeks flushed red, his spirit fierce and bold."]}, {"id": "B10.17.76", "lines": ["He said, “Your pain gives way to ease at last;", "Be as my father now your trials are past."]}, {"id": "B10.17.77", "lines": ["Tell no one what has happened here today;", "And watch what time and turning fortune say.”"]}, {"id": "B10.18.1", "lines": ["The prince mounted upon brave Giv’s own steed,", "While Giv went first on foot to take the lead."]}, {"id": "B10.18.2", "lines": ["With Indian sword in hand he ranged ahead,", "And anyone who met him soon lay dead."]}, {"id": "B10.18.3", "lines": ["He struck each neck until the foe lay red,", "Then earth and dust above the corpse he spread."]}, {"id": "B10.18.4", "lines": ["So on they went along the course they made,", "And reached the walls where Siavash once stayed."]}, {"id": "B10.18.5", "lines": ["When heart and reason steadied from their fear,", "They brought Farangis to their counsel near."]}, {"id": "B10.18.6", "lines": ["The three resolved together to depart,", "Unseen by hostile warriors from the start."]}, {"id": "B10.18.7", "lines": ["“We must depart unseen,” the lady said,", "“Or else all hope of freedom shall be dead."]}, {"id": "B10.18.8", "lines": ["If we delay, the world will close us round,", "And every road to freedom will be bound."]}, {"id": "B10.18.9", "lines": ["Afrasiab will hear and lose all rest,", "Then turn from food and sleep, by rage possessed."]}, {"id": "B10.18.10", "lines": ["He will come like the White Div in his might,", "And sweet life then will vanish from our sight."]}, {"id": "B10.18.11", "lines": ["Not one of us will then remain alive,", "By open means or hidden, none survive."]}, {"id": "B10.18.12", "lines": ["The world is filled with enemies and fear;", "This land is held in Ahriman’s dark sphere."]}, {"id": "B10.18.13", "lines": ["Hear now my counsel, son endowed with farr;", "Keep every word, for danger is not far."]}, {"id": "B10.18.14", "lines": ["There lies a meadow, not far from this way,", "Apart from where the riders of Tur stray."]}, {"id": "B10.18.15", "lines": ["At dawn, with Giv, take saddle, bridle black,", "And to that meadow follow hidden track."]}, {"id": "B10.18.16", "lines": ["You will behold a mountain reaching high,", "Where clouds rub faces on its crown of sky."]}, {"id": "B10.18.17", "lines": ["A running stream flows clear across the ground,", "Its sight renews the soul with joy unbound."]}, {"id": "B10.18.18", "lines": ["At noon the sun stands high without a sound,", "The chieftain’s hour of rest at last comes round."]}, {"id": "B10.18.19", "lines": ["Then every herd upon the mountainside", "Comes down to drink beside the flowing tide."]}, {"id": "B10.18.20", "lines": ["Show Behzad then the saddle, bridle black;", "If he grows tame, step gently on his track."]}, {"id": "B10.18.21", "lines": ["Approach him gently, let him see your face;", "Then call and stroke him softly in that place."]}, {"id": "B10.18.22", "lines": ["For Siavash lost hope in earthly light,", "And day itself grew dark before his sight."]}, {"id": "B10.18.23", "lines": ["To Shabrang Behzad then Siavash said,", "‘From this day forth by no man’s will be led."]}, {"id": "B10.18.24", "lines": ["Stay on the mountain, graze the meadow near,", "Till Kay Khosrow, your seeker, shall appear."]}, {"id": "B10.18.25", "lines": ["Become his steed and make the whole world quake;", "Sweep foes from earth beneath your hoofbeats’ wake.’”"]}, {"id": "B10.19.1", "lines": ["The valiant prince mounted on Giv’s own steed,", "While Giv on foot went first and took the lead."]}, {"id": "B10.19.2", "lines": ["They turned toward heights as men who seek a way,", "And climbed the rugged slope without delay."]}, {"id": "B10.19.3", "lines": ["When herds came down and drank beside the brink,", "They turned away, their thirst relieved by drink."]}, {"id": "B10.19.4", "lines": ["Prince Khosrow hastened toward the shining spring,", "Intent upon the task that hope might bring."]}, {"id": "B10.19.5", "lines": ["He showed Behzad the saddle, bridle dark,", "In hope his purpose now would hit its mark."]}, {"id": "B10.19.6", "lines": ["The steed beheld the king and sighed from deep,", "Then stood stock-still beside the water’s sweep."]}, {"id": "B10.19.7", "lines": ["He saw Siavash’s pard-skin saddle-seat,", "Long stirrups and the quiver at its feet."]}, {"id": "B10.19.8", "lines": ["Behzad stood rooted by the flowing tide,", "And from the watering-place he would not stride."]}, {"id": "B10.19.9", "lines": ["Prince Khosrow saw him calm and hurried near,", "And bore the saddle forward without fear."]}, {"id": "B10.19.10", "lines": ["Brave Shabrang stood motionless in his place,", "And opened wide his eyes upon that face."]}, {"id": "B10.19.11", "lines": ["Then Khosrow wept, and faithful Giv wept too,", "As though fierce fire were roasting both the two."]}, {"id": "B10.19.12", "lines": ["Their tears poured down; their tongues in anger cried,", "And curses fell on Afrasiab’s pride."]}, {"id": "B10.19.13", "lines": ["Khosrow stroked eyes and face with tender care,", "His chest and mane, and smoothed his flowing hair."]}, {"id": "B10.19.14", "lines": ["He bridled him and saddled him, the heir", "Remembering his father in despair."]}, {"id": "B10.19.15", "lines": ["Then Khosrow mounted, pressed him with his knee;", "The mighty steed rose up immediately."]}, {"id": "B10.19.16", "lines": ["Like wind through air the mighty Behzad flew,", "And in an instant vanished from Giv’s view."]}, {"id": "B10.19.17", "lines": ["Amazed and troubled, Giv cried out in fear,", "And called on God, convinced the end was near:"]}, {"id": "B10.19.18", "lines": ["“This must be Ahriman in subtle guise,", "A mighty Div-horse before my fearful eyes!"]}, {"id": "B10.19.19", "lines": ["The prince is lost, and all my toil is gone;", "That toil was all the treasure I had drawn!”"]}, {"id": "B10.19.20", "lines": ["Halfway along the mountain’s rugged side,", "He drew the reins and waited for his guide."]}, {"id": "B10.19.21", "lines": ["When Giv arrived, he turned with knowing air,", "And spoke as one who read his hidden care:"]}, {"id": "B10.19.22", "lines": ["“Shall I reveal what thoughts have filled your mind,", "What fears and doubts within your heart I find?”"]}, {"id": "B10.19.23", "lines": ["Giv answered: “Prince exalted, keen and clear,", "No veil conceals a thought when you draw near."]}, {"id": "B10.19.24", "lines": ["Through farr and Kayan burz you read so fine,", "You split a hair and see its inner line.”"]}, {"id": "B10.19.25", "lines": ["He said: “You saw this noble steed appear;", "A troubled thought arose, and doubt and fear."]}, {"id": "B10.19.26", "lines": ["You thought: ‘Ahriman has come to fight", "This youthful prince and steal him from my sight."]}, {"id": "B10.19.27", "lines": ["Now he is gone; my labor falls apart;", "The Div rejoices while grief fills my heart.’”"]}, {"id": "B10.19.28", "lines": ["Giv then dismounted, bowed his humbled head,", "And blessed the prince, then raised his voice and said:"]}, {"id": "B10.19.29", "lines": ["“May fortune bless each season of your reign,", "And cast your foes in lasting loss and pain."]}, {"id": "B10.19.30", "lines": ["For God gave burz, royal splendor, rank, and farr,", "With honar, gohar, shining from afar.”"]}, {"id": "B10.19.31", "lines": ["They left the heights and toward the eyvan went,", "Their thoughts upon the coming road intent."]}, {"id": "B10.19.32", "lines": ["They came to Farangis, and what they said", "Was all about the long road stretched ahead."]}, {"id": "B10.19.33", "lines": ["They guarded well the purpose they had made,", "So none might learn the secret plans they laid."]}, {"id": "B10.19.34", "lines": ["When Farangis beheld the noble steed,", "Her wounded heart began once more to bleed."]}, {"id": "B10.19.35", "lines": ["She pressed her cheek against his mane and chest,", "And called Siavash’s name in deep unrest."]}, {"id": "B10.19.36", "lines": ["When tears were spent, she turned without delay,", "And toward her laden treasury made way."]}, {"id": "B10.19.37", "lines": ["Within her eyvan lay a hidden store,", "Unknown to any living soul before."]}, {"id": "B10.19.38", "lines": ["There lay dinars and dirhams, rubies rare,", "And precious gems preserved with secret care."]}, {"id": "B10.19.39", "lines": ["With gopal, bargostvan, khanjar, blade,", "And heavy gorz, for battle all arrayed."]}, {"id": "B10.19.40", "lines": ["Her cheeks grew red; her tears began to run;", "She opened all the treasure to her son."]}, {"id": "B10.19.41", "lines": ["She said to Giv: “O chief who bore this pain,", "Choose from my treasure what you wish to gain."]}, {"id": "B10.19.42", "lines": ["Take dinars, royal gems, and rubies’ fire,", "Or choose the jeweled crown if you desire."]}, {"id": "B10.19.43", "lines": ["We merely guard it; all this wealth is yours;", "The toil and risk were yours through all those years.”"]}, {"id": "B10.19.44", "lines": ["He kissed the ground, then raised his grateful face:", "“O foremost lady among woman’s race,"]}, {"id": "B10.19.45", "lines": ["Through you the earth becomes spring’s Paradise;", "And heaven brings both good and ill before your eyes."]}, {"id": "B10.19.46", "lines": ["May all the world bow down before your son,", "And all your foes be crushed and overrun.”"]}, {"id": "B10.19.47", "lines": ["When Giv beheld the arms prepared for strife,", "He chose Siavash’s jowshan, worn in life."]}, {"id": "B10.19.48", "lines": ["They gathered gems to carry on the road,", "And chose the richest pieces for the load."]}, {"id": "B10.19.49", "lines": ["They chose a helm and bargostvan, and found", "Such arms as fit a Pahlevan renowned."]}, {"id": "B10.19.50", "lines": ["Then sealing fast the hoard, they turned away,", "And made things ready for the desert way."]}, {"id": "B10.20.1", "lines": ["When all was set, they saddled their swift steeds,", "Those famed and tireless mounts of proven deeds."]}, {"id": "B10.20.2", "lines": ["Fair Farangis placed a helmet on her head,", "Then all three mounted, and like wind they sped."]}, {"id": "B10.20.3", "lines": ["Toward Iran they turned in urgent flight,", "And traveled secretly, concealed from sight."]}, {"id": "B10.20.4", "lines": ["But secret flight could not remain concealed,", "For word soon reached Piran: all was revealed."]}, {"id": "B10.20.5", "lines": ["A messenger approached him in alarm:", "“Giv came from Iran, mighty in his arm."]}, {"id": "B10.20.6", "lines": ["He found the prince, and he has fled our ground,", "With Khosrow and Farangis, homeward bound.”"]}, {"id": "B10.20.7", "lines": ["Piran grew grieved, his limbs began to shake,", "Like branches trembling in a storm’s fierce wake."]}, {"id": "B10.20.8", "lines": ["He thought: “The king’s dark warning now is true;", "The thing he feared has now at last come due."]}, {"id": "B10.20.9", "lines": ["What answer can I give Afrasiab now?", "My standing darkens underneath his brow.”"]}, {"id": "B10.20.10", "lines": ["Kulbad and Nastihan were called to lead,", "Two hardened chiefs renowned for martial deed."]}, {"id": "B10.20.11", "lines": ["Three hundred Turkish riders he arrayed,", "Then sent them forth; this was the charge he made:"]}, {"id": "B10.20.12", "lines": ["“Ride hard; do not so much as scratch your head;", "Stay in the saddle; drive your horses ahead."]}, {"id": "B10.20.13", "lines": ["Set Giv’s head high upon a lifted spear;", "Beneath the dust make Farangis disappear."]}, {"id": "B10.20.14", "lines": ["Bind Khosrow fast, whose step brings evil fate;", "His coming casts ill fortune on the state."]}, {"id": "B10.20.15", "lines": ["If once that ill-starred prince should cross the tide,", "What ruin then will fall on every side?”"]}, {"id": "B10.20.16", "lines": ["So forth they rode, a fierce and chosen force,", "The two sepahbods driving on their course."]}, {"id": "B10.20.17", "lines": ["Meanwhile Khosrow and Farangis both lay,", "Exhausted from their long and weary way."]}, {"id": "B10.20.18", "lines": ["The road was long, the night had brought them strain;", "So Giv stood guardian while the two had lain."]}, {"id": "B10.20.19", "lines": ["While both lay sleeping, Giv stayed wide awake,", "His eyes fixed on the road that riders take."]}, {"id": "B10.20.20", "lines": ["His horse in bargostvan stood battle-dressed,", "Prepared for war at his rider’s behest."]}, {"id": "B10.20.21", "lines": ["In jowshan, helmet, Giv stood fierce and dread,", "His body pledged to death, all terror shed."]}, {"id": "B10.21.1", "lines": ["Giv saw afar the dust the riders raised,", "He drew his sword; his battle-spirit blazed."]}, {"id": "B10.21.2", "lines": ["His cry like thunder shook the plain and sky,", "Till darkness veiled the lion’s brain and eye."]}, {"id": "B10.21.3", "lines": ["He swept among the riders like the dust,", "And turned the earth to lapis with his thrust."]}, {"id": "B10.21.4", "lines": ["With khanjar, then with gorz, he struck from high,", "And rained down iron as he thundered by."]}, {"id": "B10.21.5", "lines": ["Beneath Giv’s gopal blows the chiefs gave way,", "Their hearts grew sick of battle and the fray."]}, {"id": "B10.21.6", "lines": ["Giv’s heart laughed in the fury of the fight;", "The sea itself seemed but a spring in sight."]}, {"id": "B10.21.7", "lines": ["The dense ranks closed around him every side,", "A raging mass of horsemen in their pride."]}, {"id": "B10.21.8", "lines": ["The spears like reeds grew thick across the field,", "Till sun and moon alike from sight were concealed."]}, {"id": "B10.21.9", "lines": ["The lion grieved within that spear-thick stand;", "Blood turned the reed-bed to a wine-red land."]}, {"id": "B10.21.10", "lines": ["Giv struck down many riders in the fight,", "Till all the horsemen wearied of his might."]}, {"id": "B10.21.11", "lines": ["Then Kulbad said: “A mountain stands in sight,", "Of granite rock in shoulder, flank, and height."]}, {"id": "B10.21.12", "lines": ["It is Khosrow’s bright farr that guides each blow,", "Not Giv alone who lays our warriors low."]}, {"id": "B10.21.13", "lines": ["What fate now waits our fields and mountain plain?", "None can resist what Yazdan shall ordain."]}, {"id": "B10.21.14", "lines": ["The stars foretell disaster for our throne,", "For Turan’s lords and lands we call our own.”"]}, {"id": "B10.21.15", "lines": ["Then all their troops advanced in fierce array,", "And clashed with Giv, who held them all at bay."]}, {"id": "B10.21.16", "lines": ["The battle cries and blaring horns rang round,", "Till mountain roots were shaken underground."]}, {"id": "B10.21.17", "lines": ["The caves and plains were heaped with bodies dead;", "The earth like arghavan was crimson-red."]}, {"id": "B10.21.18", "lines": ["The routed ranks broke loose and fled in fear,", "And turned from Giv, no longer drawing near."]}, {"id": "B10.21.19", "lines": ["Wounded and spent, the broken force withdrew,", "And rode to Piran, battered through and through."]}, {"id": "B10.21.20", "lines": ["But Giv returned, blood staining breast and hand,", "A blood-soaked lion from the slaughtered band."]}, {"id": "B10.21.21", "lines": ["He came to Khosrow: “Prince, rejoice today;", "Free now your mind from care and grief away."]}, {"id": "B10.21.22", "lines": ["Kulbad and Nastihan pursued our trail,", "With all their force, but even they would fail."]}, {"id": "B10.21.23", "lines": ["Those who survived fled wounded from the field,", "Their shoulders, chests, a grief no words concealed."]}, {"id": "B10.21.24", "lines": ["No horseman lives in all of Iran’s land,", "Save Rostam, who against my strength could stand.”"]}, {"id": "B10.21.25", "lines": ["Khosrow rejoiced and praised Giv’s noble name,", "And blessed the hand that won such lasting fame."]}, {"id": "B10.21.26", "lines": ["They ate what food they found without delay,", "Then hastened onward by the trackless way."]}, {"id": "B10.21.27", "lines": ["Meanwhile the Turanian troops reached Piran’s side,", "Defeated, scorched, and stripped of all their pride."]}, {"id": "B10.21.28", "lines": ["He spoke in anger: “Hide no wonder here;", "Whatever you have seen, make all things clear."]}, {"id": "B10.21.29", "lines": ["Where are Khosrow and Giv? What came to pass?", "Speak truth to me; concealment shall not last!”"]}, {"id": "B10.21.30", "lines": ["Then Kulbad said: “The tale I tell is true;", "O Pahlevan, I open speech to you."]}, {"id": "B10.21.31", "lines": ["When I recount what Giv did in the fray,", "Your heart will turn from battle’s field away."]}, {"id": "B10.21.32", "lines": ["You have seen me lead chiefs through battle’s flame,", "And often praised my valor and my name."]}, {"id": "B10.21.33", "lines": ["I pressed him so, I thought his fall was near;", "His downward course already seemed quite clear."]}, {"id": "B10.21.34", "lines": ["More than a thousand gopal blows I laid,", "Yet he stood firm and fearless, never swayed."]}, {"id": "B10.21.35", "lines": ["His head seemed like an anvil, hard and vast,", "His chest and arms like elephant tusks built to last."]}, {"id": "B10.21.36", "lines": ["I have seen Rostam raging in the fray,", "And heard of men who never turned away;"]}, {"id": "B10.21.37", "lines": ["Yet never have I seen a man endure", "Such crushing blows and still remain secure."]}, {"id": "B10.21.38", "lines": ["Though every gorz had been as wax and thin,", "And every spearpoint made of leopard skin,"]}, {"id": "B10.21.39", "lines": ["His limbs should still have shattered from the strain,", "His frame been crushed beneath that ceaseless rain."]}, {"id": "B10.21.40", "lines": ["He drew new strength from every stroke I threw,", "And roared, an elephant, with fury new."]}, {"id": "B10.21.41", "lines": ["One man alone our massed ranks overthrew,", "Till heaps of slain like mountains round him grew.”"]}, {"id": "B10.21.42", "lines": ["Piran grew angry. “Enough!” then he cried;", "“To tell such shame disgraces warrior pride."]}, {"id": "B10.21.43", "lines": ["How can one rider merit all this fame?", "Why speak so much of one lone warrior’s name?"]}, {"id": "B10.21.44", "lines": ["Seek no more combat with the men of war;", "You rode with noble Nastihan before,"]}, {"id": "B10.21.45", "lines": ["With troops like lions, yet because you fled,", "You made of Giv a mad elephant instead."]}, {"id": "B10.21.46", "lines": ["Your fame among the mighty now lies low;", "Afrasiab will hear and surely know."]}, {"id": "B10.21.47", "lines": ["He will cast down the crown in grief and shame:", "Two Pahlevans, two horsemen known to fame,"]}, {"id": "B10.21.48", "lines": ["With troops equipped and ready for the fight,", "Then from one warrior turned and took to flight,"]}, {"id": "B10.21.49", "lines": ["While he struck many down in battle’s course;", "Yours now are taunts; not gopal, koust, or force.”"]}, {"id": "B10.22.1", "lines": ["Piran selected from his ranks a force,", "One thousand riders set upon their course."]}, {"id": "B10.22.2", "lines": ["“Ride swiftly now,” he said, “and spare no rein;", "Pursue the fugitives across the plain."]}, {"id": "B10.22.3", "lines": ["Let no man rest nor loosen belt or gear,", "For danger draws and ruin presses near."]}, {"id": "B10.22.4", "lines": ["If Giv and Khosrow reach Iran’s own side,", "Then Iran’s women will like lions stride."]}, {"id": "B10.22.5", "lines": ["No land or water will remain our own;", "Afrasiab, when told, his heart will groan."]}, {"id": "B10.22.6", "lines": ["His heart aflame, he lays the blame on me,", "Not star, nor sun, nor moon’s own high decree.”"]}, {"id": "B10.22.7", "lines": ["They rode like wind at Piran’s stern command,", "And swept in haste across the open land."]}, {"id": "B10.22.8", "lines": ["Without a halt they drove their horses fast,", "Across the plain their urgent riding passed."]}, {"id": "B10.22.9", "lines": ["At last they reached a river deep below,", "Their ranks spread warp and woof beside its flow."]}, {"id": "B10.22.10", "lines": ["Its bed was deep, but narrow was its span;", "To cross its waters daunted every man."]}, {"id": "B10.22.11", "lines": ["That stream was Gulzaryun, its current dread;", "In spring it ran with blood, a sea of red."]}, {"id": "B10.22.12", "lines": ["Across the bank lay Khosrow, Giv asleep,", "While Farangis alone the watch did keep."]}, {"id": "B10.22.13", "lines": ["She searched the distant reaches of the land,", "And saw afar the Turanian chief’s command."]}, {"id": "B10.22.14", "lines": ["She hurried back and raised a warning cry,", "And broke their sleep as danger drew close by."]}, {"id": "B10.22.15", "lines": ["She cried, “Rise, warrior, worn by toil and pain;", "The hour of battle looms before you plain."]}, {"id": "B10.22.16", "lines": ["Their horsemen follow underneath the moon;", "I fear that time will close around us soon."]}, {"id": "B10.22.17", "lines": ["If they should take you, you will surely die,", "And grief will seize our hearts beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B10.22.18", "lines": ["Khosrow and I in chains they will then bear", "To Afrasiab, past all help or prayer."]}, {"id": "B10.22.19", "lines": ["The secrets of high Heaven none may know,", "Nor what new sorrow fate may yet bestow.”"]}, {"id": "B10.22.20", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “O noblest of your kind,", "Why let such anxious terrors fill your mind?"]}, {"id": "B10.22.21", "lines": ["Ascend the height with Khosrow, do not fear;", "No harm from Piran’s men shall reach you here."]}, {"id": "B10.22.22", "lines": ["The World-Creator stands with me in fight,", "And fortune’s star burns steady in my sight."]}, {"id": "B10.22.23", "lines": ["By Yazdan, Maker, I shall take the field,", "And show what mounted skill can make them yield.”"]}, {"id": "B10.22.24", "lines": ["Then Khosrow spoke: “O warrior bold and tried,", "Long you have borne this burden at my side."]}, {"id": "B10.22.25", "lines": ["I have escaped calamity’s dark net;", "The dragon’s maw should not consume you yet."]}, {"id": "B10.22.26", "lines": ["Let me advance against them on the plain,", "And with my sword cast blood toward heaven’s domain.”"]}, {"id": "B10.22.27", "lines": ["But Giv replied: “O prince of noble birth,", "The world still needs your crown upon the earth."]}, {"id": "B10.22.28", "lines": ["My father is a Pahlevan, and I;", "Who after you could wear the crown on high?"]}, {"id": "B10.22.29", "lines": ["Seventy-eight brothers stand within my line;", "What loss is mine if one life must decline?"]}, {"id": "B10.22.30", "lines": ["For Pahlevans are many, kings are few;", "Few? None but you stands plainly in my view."]}, {"id": "B10.22.31", "lines": ["If I should fall, another chief will rise;", "The royal crown will still endure in wise."]}, {"id": "B10.22.32", "lines": ["But if you perish here, no man remains", "Fit for the crown and fit to hold the reins."]}, {"id": "B10.22.33", "lines": ["Then seven years of toil are cast away,", "And shame upon my lineage long will stay."]}, {"id": "B10.22.34", "lines": ["So climb the heights and watch the army stand;", "The World-Creator will uphold my hand."]}, {"id": "B10.22.35", "lines": ["All victory that comes, your farr bestows;", "Beneath your wings the whole wide world still grows.”"]}, {"id": "B10.23.1", "lines": ["Giv donned his jowshan, rode with lion’s zeal,", "His steed beneath him strong as tempered steel."]}, {"id": "B10.23.2", "lines": ["The chief stood here, the army gathered there,", "The river flowed between and barred the pair."]}, {"id": "B10.23.3", "lines": ["Giv roared aloud like thunder in the spring,", "And challenged Piran, leader of the wing."]}, {"id": "B10.23.4", "lines": ["Piran grew angry, cursed him in reply:", "“You base-born wretch, ill-starred beneath the sky!"]}, {"id": "B10.23.5", "lines": ["Alone you come before this army’s line,", "One warrior facing all these ranks of mine."]}, {"id": "B10.23.6", "lines": ["The javelin’s point shall be the food you meet;", "A hawk’s sharp claws shall be your winding-sheet."]}, {"id": "B10.23.7", "lines": ["Though like an iron mountain you may stand,", "A thousand swarm like ants at my command"]}, {"id": "B10.23.8", "lines": ["Will tear your armor open, seam by seam,", "Then drag your headless corpse through dust unseen.”"]}, {"id": "B10.23.9", "lines": ["Then Piran spoke a proverb of the deer:", "“When Time has reached it, death itself draws near."]}, {"id": "B10.23.10", "lines": ["Then Time begins to count each breath it spends,", "And drives it running where its journey ends."]}, {"id": "B10.23.11", "lines": ["So Time has brought you here before my face,", "Before this famed assembly in this place.”"]}, {"id": "B10.23.12", "lines": ["Then Giv replied, his voice with fury rife,", "And roared, the chief of chiefs, prepared for strife:"]}, {"id": "B10.23.13", "lines": ["“O Turk of evil gohar, Div-born seed,", "May none like you command where armies lead!"]}, {"id": "B10.23.14", "lines": ["For Siavash you saw my vengeance fall;", "You know the wounds my blows have dealt you all."]}, {"id": "B10.23.15", "lines": ["From Turan and from Chin your chiefs I slew;", "Beneath my hand their blood in battle flew."]}, {"id": "B10.23.16", "lines": ["I plundered all your household in the fight,", "And struck at your own life with all my might."]}, {"id": "B10.23.17", "lines": ["Your noble women fell beneath my power,", "From Khutan dragged in chains that bitter hour."]}, {"id": "B10.23.18", "lines": ["One was your sister, one your wedded mate,", "And both stood trembling for your threatened fate."]}, {"id": "B10.23.19", "lines": ["I gave them both to men of lowest birth,", "And cast your vaunted honor to the earth."]}, {"id": "B10.23.20", "lines": ["You turned your back and fled in fear and dread,", "Like women overcome with grief, you fled."]}, {"id": "B10.23.21", "lines": ["You need men’s aid, as any woman might;", "Among brave warriors claim no manly right."]}, {"id": "B10.23.22", "lines": ["Through ages chiefs shall mourn your lasting shame,", "While rud and minstrels sing your tainted name."]}, {"id": "B10.23.23", "lines": ["They will then tell how Giv bore Khosrow free,", "And name you both in shame for all to see."]}, {"id": "B10.23.24", "lines": ["Great princes sought alliance far and wide,", "Faghfoor and Caesar and Chin’s Khan beside."]}, {"id": "B10.23.25", "lines": ["And Kay Kavus’s kinsmen, chiefs of fame,", "The golden-helmeted, all sought the same."]}, {"id": "B10.23.26", "lines": ["They sought brave Rostam’s daughter as a bride,", "And sent their marriage offers from each side."]}, {"id": "B10.23.27", "lines": ["Even Tus sent his marriage suit in pride,", "Yet Rostam mocked his claim and cast it aside."]}, {"id": "B10.23.28", "lines": ["Tahamtan turned from every offered tie;", "Not one seemed worthy in his searching eye."]}, {"id": "B10.23.29", "lines": ["Brave Rostam searched the world, and everywhere", "He found no warrior worthy of his heir."]}, {"id": "B10.23.30", "lines": ["At last from every suitor he chose me,", "And gave his child, more dear than crown could be."]}, {"id": "B10.23.31", "lines": ["Banu Gashasp, his eldest child by name,", "A rider and a champion known to fame."]}, {"id": "B10.23.32", "lines": ["From all those great ones, Rostam chose me best,", "And raised my glory far above the rest."]}, {"id": "B10.23.33", "lines": ["My sister too, the fair Shahr-Banu, wed", "Great Rostam; moon of women, so all said."]}, {"id": "B10.23.34", "lines": ["Save mighty Rostam, elephant in fray,", "No equal have I known before this day."]}, {"id": "B10.23.35", "lines": ["When next with Rostam I pursue your end,", "Prepare the dirge your mourners then shall send."]}, {"id": "B10.23.36", "lines": ["With this blue khanjar I will darken your sight,", "And turn your shining world to endless night."]}, {"id": "B10.23.37", "lines": ["If any man of yours escapes my hand,", "Then strip from me the title of a man."]}, {"id": "B10.23.38", "lines": ["I bear Kay Khosrow toward Iran’s great throne,", "And bring him to the Shah whose fame is known."]}, {"id": "B10.23.39", "lines": ["On the ivory throne I will seat him then,", "And crown his head with light before all men."]}, {"id": "B10.23.40", "lines": ["Once more I don my jowshan, nor shall fail", "To turn all Turan to a lion’s vale."]}, {"id": "B10.23.41", "lines": ["I am Giv, son of Gudarz, Keshvad’s line,", "Among the chiefs, the foremost name is mine."]}, {"id": "B10.23.42", "lines": ["You luckless Piran, cursed in rank and name,", "No crown or realm shall ever bear your claim."]}, {"id": "B10.23.43", "lines": ["My kamand’s curve will seal your coming death;", "Your jowshan, helm, shall shroud your final breath.”"]}, {"id": "B10.24.1", "lines": ["Piran grew furious, heart with anger drowned,", "While bitter tears within his eyes were found."]}, {"id": "B10.24.2", "lines": ["He gripped his mount and urged it into flight,", "His heavy gorz upon his shoulder tight."]}, {"id": "B10.24.3", "lines": ["Like some swift vessel, through the flood he flew,", "And praised the One whose grace is ever true."]}, {"id": "B10.24.4", "lines": ["Giv made no haste to test him in the fray,", "But watched until the chief had cleared the spray."]}, {"id": "B10.24.5", "lines": ["Then Giv turned down the slope and seemed to flee,", "Though battle still inflamed him inwardly."]}, {"id": "B10.24.6", "lines": ["Piran drew near him, furious in the fight;", "The world around them darkened into night."]}, {"id": "B10.24.7", "lines": ["When far from river, army, rank, and line,", "Giv raised his battle-gorz with bold design."]}, {"id": "B10.24.8", "lines": ["He wheeled and charged the chief with gorz in hand,", "A raging dragon sweeping through the land."]}, {"id": "B10.24.9", "lines": ["Before the gorz, lion Piran fled;", "While Giv pursued him hard his charger sped."]}, {"id": "B10.24.10", "lines": ["Unseen, he drew his kamand from its place,", "And freed its coiling loops in secret chase."]}, {"id": "B10.24.11", "lines": ["He whirled the loop and cast the kamand wide,", "Its tightening curve swept toward the rider’s side."]}, {"id": "B10.24.12", "lines": ["His kamand caught Piran’s head in its bend,", "And tore him from the saddle at the end."]}, {"id": "B10.24.13", "lines": ["He cast him down on foot in deep disgrace,", "And dragged him far away from river’s place."]}, {"id": "B10.24.14", "lines": ["He threw him down and bound his hands, and then", "He donned his arms and mounted up again."]}, {"id": "B10.24.15", "lines": ["He seized Piran’s banner in his hand,", "And rode to Gulzaryun where troops still stand."]}, {"id": "B10.24.16", "lines": ["The Turanians saw their leader’s standard rise,", "And hurried forward, fooled by their own eyes."]}, {"id": "B10.24.17", "lines": ["A shout arose with karnay sounding high,", "With bronze-toned ney and Indian bells nearby."]}, {"id": "B10.24.18", "lines": ["Then Giv entered the water like a ship,", "Driven by waves beneath their surging grip."]}, {"id": "B10.24.19", "lines": ["He raised his heavy gorz above the tide;", "The army stared in wonder from its side."]}, {"id": "B10.24.20", "lines": ["With reins held light and stirrups firm in place,", "He struck their ranks and drove them in disgrace."]}, {"id": "B10.24.21", "lines": ["With sword and driving force and violent blows,", "He cast them down and scattered all their rows."]}, {"id": "B10.24.22", "lines": ["The fallen made the plain a mountain high;", "His gorz had worn their bravest warriors dry."]}, {"id": "B10.24.23", "lines": ["The chiefs turned back, the lion drove the flock,", "And shattered all resistance in the shock."]}, {"id": "B10.24.24", "lines": ["Their lines broke loose and fled in wild dismay,", "While Giv rode through and cleared himself a way."]}, {"id": "B10.24.25", "lines": ["He crossed the stream again so fresh and strong,", "As though no battle had delayed him long."]}, {"id": "B10.24.26", "lines": ["He hastened back to where Piran was bound,", "To strike him dead where he lay on the ground."]}, {"id": "B10.24.27", "lines": ["He dragged him on foot in shame and fear,", "Bewildered, far from where the stream ran near."]}, {"id": "B10.24.28", "lines": ["Before Khosrow the captive came in dread,", "His cheeks turned yellow, low he bowed his head."]}, {"id": "B10.24.29", "lines": ["Then Giv dismounted, bowed down to the ground,", "And honored Khosrow with respect profound."]}, {"id": "B10.24.30", "lines": ["“This faithless man is now within your hand;", "The dragon’s maw has caught him where I stand."]}, {"id": "B10.24.31", "lines": ["Through your words Siavash lost his noble head;", "As he became mere wind, so shall you,” he said."]}, {"id": "B10.24.32", "lines": ["Then Piran bowed and kissed the ground in grief,", "And spoke his plea before the royal chief:"]}, {"id": "B10.24.33", "lines": ["“O prince of wisdom, sun among all men,", "You know my grief and all I suffered then."]}, {"id": "B10.24.34", "lines": ["For you I challenged Afrasiab’s decree,", "And bore the danger that it brought to me."]}, {"id": "B10.24.35", "lines": ["Had I stood near when danger closed his way,", "Siavash might be living here today."]}, {"id": "B10.24.36", "lines": ["By counsel, skill, and care I rescued you,", "And from the Div’s grasp saved your mother too."]}, {"id": "B10.24.37", "lines": ["So by your farr and fortune set me free;", "From this fierce dragon’s grasp deliver me.”"]}, {"id": "B10.25.1", "lines": ["Giv looked to Khosrow, pausing to await", "The Shah’s decree upon the captive’s fate."]}, {"id": "B10.25.2", "lines": ["Fair Farangis stood weeping at his side,", "And cursed Afrasiab, tears she could not hide."]}, {"id": "B10.25.3", "lines": ["She spoke to Giv: “O chief, steadfast and strong,", "Who bore the pain of wandering so long,"]}, {"id": "B10.25.4", "lines": ["This aged lord, though numbered with our foes,", "Is wise and generous as his conduct shows."]}, {"id": "B10.25.5", "lines": ["After the Just Creator, it was he", "Who saved us both from death and set us free."]}, {"id": "B10.25.6", "lines": ["His love became the shield our lives had found,", "He asks for zanhar now on that same ground."]}, {"id": "B10.25.7", "lines": ["So grant him life, O valiant one and strong;", "For never was his counsel bent to wrong.”"]}, {"id": "B10.25.8", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “O foremost, worthy praise,", "May this world’s Shah stay young through all the days."]}, {"id": "B10.25.9", "lines": ["I swore an oath by moon and royal crown,", "And by the Shah’s high throne of great renown:"]}, {"id": "B10.25.10", "lines": ["If once in battle I should bring him low,", "His blood would dye the earth with crimson flow.”"]}, {"id": "B10.25.11", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said: “O lion, guard your soul;", "Fulfill your oath, yet keep his body whole."]}, {"id": "B10.25.12", "lines": ["Pierce only Piran’s ear with khanjar-blade;", "Thus let the oath you swore be duly paid."]}, {"id": "B10.25.13", "lines": ["When from your khanjar blood has reached the ground,", "Let love and vengeance both therein be found.”"]}, {"id": "B10.25.14", "lines": ["Giv saw the Shah’s warm heart and tear-wet face,", "And read the azarm joined with royal grace."]}, {"id": "B10.25.15", "lines": ["He pierced Piran’s ear there with his blade,", "And thus the oath he swore was fully paid."]}, {"id": "B10.25.16", "lines": ["Then Piran spoke: “O prince of noble line,", "On foot I cannot reach those troops of mine."]}, {"id": "B10.25.17", "lines": ["Restore my steed, and count that gift alone", "As life and all possessions now my own.”"]}, {"id": "B10.25.18", "lines": ["Then Khosrow spoke to Giv and thus replied:", "“Return his horse to him, O lion tried.”"]}, {"id": "B10.25.19", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “O battle-tested chief,", "Why has your strength grown faint, your courage brief?"]}, {"id": "B10.25.20", "lines": ["If you would have this wind-swift steed to ride,", "Your hands must first be tightly bound and tied."]}, {"id": "B10.25.21", "lines": ["Now swear a binding oath, both strict and true;", "By covenant these bonds may loosen you:"]}, {"id": "B10.25.22", "lines": ["That none shall loose you on your homeward way,", "Nor cut these bonds nor cast the cords away,"]}, {"id": "B10.25.23", "lines": ["Save Golshahr, foremost wife within your hall,", "Who knows your skin and marrow, and knows all.”"]}, {"id": "B10.25.24", "lines": ["Piran agreed and swore with lifted hand,", "And bought his horse and life by oath’s command."]}, {"id": "B10.25.25", "lines": ["“None shall release me till she cuts me free;", "Golshahr alone shall loose these bonds from me.”"]}, {"id": "B10.25.26", "lines": ["Then Giv bound fast his hands and brought his steed,", "And set him in the saddle with all speed."]}, {"id": "B10.25.27", "lines": ["Then Farangis and Khosrow both embraced", "The chief with love, as parting now they faced."]}, {"id": "B10.25.28", "lines": ["He took his leave and blessed them as he went;", "To Khosrow and to Giv his prayers were sent."]}, {"id": "B10.26.1", "lines": ["The sun grew dark in Afrasiab’s sight,", "When word of Khosrow reached him in his flight."]}, {"id": "B10.26.2", "lines": ["He sounded karnays, bronze-toned, loud and clear,", "And called his horsemen swiftly to draw near."]}, {"id": "B10.26.3", "lines": ["He left his palace like a raging fire,", "And drove ahead consumed by wrathful ire."]}, {"id": "B10.26.4", "lines": ["He made two marches one and did not stay,", "And sped, an arrow from the bow, away."]}, {"id": "B10.26.5", "lines": ["He reached the place where Kulbad fought before,", "And saw the field still strewn with blood and gore."]}, {"id": "B10.26.6", "lines": ["The troops lay scattered, broken, far and wide,", "And heaps of fallen men lay side by side."]}, {"id": "B10.26.7", "lines": ["He asked: “What force from Iran formed this band?", "No man saw such an army cross our land."]}, {"id": "B10.26.8", "lines": ["Who then carried word to that Div-born heir,", "That Siavash had left a son, and where?"]}, {"id": "B10.26.9", "lines": ["Had dust been foster-mother to that head,", "My eyes would not behold this day,” he said."]}, {"id": "B10.26.10", "lines": ["Then Sipahram replied: “This grief were light", "Had some great army brought us to this plight."]}, {"id": "B10.26.11", "lines": ["Brave Giv came from Iran, a warrior bold;", "No second warrior did our scouts behold."]}, {"id": "B10.26.12", "lines": ["One man alone exhausted all our band;", "Then Giv, the Shah, and Farangis left the land.”"]}, {"id": "B10.26.13", "lines": ["The monarch’s face grew pale at what he heard,", "His heart was struck and shaken by each word."]}, {"id": "B10.26.14", "lines": ["He said: “The sages spoke of this before;", "Their words have now proved true forevermore."]}, {"id": "B10.26.15", "lines": ["When Yazdan grants a man auspicious fate,", "He brings him to the throne, though small his state.”"]}, {"id": "B10.26.16", "lines": ["As Afrasiab listened, all could hear;", "An army from the distant road drew near."]}, {"id": "B10.26.17", "lines": ["With Piran at their head in sorry plight,", "His face and hair ran crimson from the fight."]}, {"id": "B10.26.18", "lines": ["The king believed: “He comes, the battle won,", "And brings me news that Giv is overrun.”"]}, {"id": "B10.26.19", "lines": ["But drawing near, the king looked hard and saw", "The army’s chief exhausted, bruised and raw."]}, {"id": "B10.26.20", "lines": ["Bound like a stone upon the saddle’s height,", "His hands were fastened tightly out of sight."]}, {"id": "B10.26.21", "lines": ["The king, astonished, spoke in grief and dread:", "“What fate befell you? How were you thus led?”"]}, {"id": "B10.26.22", "lines": ["Then Piran said: “No raging lion known,", "Wolf or tiger matches what he has shown."]}, {"id": "B10.26.23", "lines": ["Though standing all alone upon the field,", "He struck such fear that seasoned warriors reeled."]}, {"id": "B10.26.24", "lines": ["His battle-breath could make the nahang fear,", "And burn within the sea when Giv drew near."]}, {"id": "B10.26.25", "lines": ["He fell upon us, heavy gorz in hand,", "Like blacksmith’s hammer pounding through our band."]}, {"id": "B10.26.26", "lines": ["At horse and foot, at mane and stirrup-side,", "He struck, and downward crashed the mounted pride."]}, {"id": "B10.26.27", "lines": ["He struck our champions dead across the field,", "And gave no thought to all our ranks could yield."]}, {"id": "B10.26.28", "lines": ["Our swords fell thick as rain from clouds on high,", "Yet still he stood, steadfast and fierce of eye."]}, {"id": "B10.26.29", "lines": ["Within the saddle Giv endured each stroke,", "As firm as mountain stone, and never broke."]}, {"id": "B10.26.30", "lines": ["At last our troops broke ranks and fled the field,", "While I alone stood firm and would not yield."]}, {"id": "B10.26.31", "lines": ["He wheeled in flight, his kamand whirled around,", "And snared my head and hurled me to the ground."]}, {"id": "B10.26.32", "lines": ["My senses failed, and in a swoon I lay,", "My head and strength had both been swept away."]}, {"id": "B10.26.33", "lines": ["He left his horse and bound my hands there fast,", "Then mounted, driving me before him past."]}, {"id": "B10.26.34", "lines": ["Again, shamed, dragged before Khosrow, I bore", "A fresh brand burned into my spirit’s core."]}, {"id": "B10.26.35", "lines": ["He raised his sword to end my life in shame,", "But Farangis stepped forth and stayed his aim."]}, {"id": "B10.26.36", "lines": ["She spared my life; he pierced my ear instead,", "Then bound my hands behind me as I bled."]}, {"id": "B10.26.37", "lines": ["I swore by Shah, by sun and moon and crown,", "By sovereign God, and bound my promise down:"]}, {"id": "B10.26.38", "lines": ["Hard was the oath in which he had me bound;", "My fortune turned, no other path I found."]}, {"id": "B10.26.39", "lines": ["That none should loose me till I reached my home,", "Nor cut these bonds no matter how I roam."]}, {"id": "B10.26.40", "lines": ["So bound I rode; what secret Heaven hides,", "I know not, nor why pure Mehr from us slides."]}, {"id": "B10.26.41", "lines": ["One moment head and hair in kamand lay,", "The next in oath and bonds I rode away.”"]}, {"id": "B10.26.42", "lines": ["Afrasiab heard; his anger filled his eyes,", "And tears of rage began at once to rise."]}, {"id": "B10.26.43", "lines": ["One fierce shout drove Piran out of the hall;", "The captive turned and said no more at all."]}, {"id": "B10.26.44", "lines": ["Then, loud with wrath and curses, swore the king;", "His oaths rang out with fury in their sting:"]}, {"id": "B10.26.45", "lines": ["“Though Giv and Khosrow thunder like a cloud,", "And sweep like wind, however fierce and proud,"]}, {"id": "B10.26.46", "lines": ["I will drag them down from heaven,” he cried,", "And drew the sword that hung against his side:"]}, {"id": "B10.26.47", "lines": ["“With well-tempered sword I will strike them dead,", "And pour my vengeance down upon each head."]}, {"id": "B10.26.48", "lines": ["Farangis, once she falls within my sight,", "Shall find her world grown narrow, dark as night."]}, {"id": "B10.26.49", "lines": ["My sharpened sword shall cut her body through,", "Then cast her to the fish beneath the blue."]}, {"id": "B10.26.50", "lines": ["If Khosrow seeks Iran beyond our reign,", "What does Farangis hope, with him, to gain?”"]}, {"id": "B10.27.1", "lines": ["Piran rode on toward Khutan in grief,", "While Afrasiab rode, the lofty chief."]}, {"id": "B10.27.2", "lines": ["He and his chiefs toward Jihun swiftly sped,", "His wrathful hem seemed drawn through rivers red."]}, {"id": "B10.27.3", "lines": ["He said to Houman: “Hasten; lose no day,", "Ride hard and reach the river while you may."]}, {"id": "B10.27.4", "lines": ["If Giv and Khosrow gain the farther strand,", "Then all our toil is wind across the land."]}, {"id": "B10.27.5", "lines": ["Long since a sage foretold what now we see,", "And spoke of fate from which no man breaks free:"]}, {"id": "B10.27.6", "lines": ["From Tur and Kay Qobad a line shall rise,", "A king shall rise, born of those ancient ties."]}, {"id": "B10.27.7", "lines": ["He shall make all Turan a thorn-choked land,", "And leave no settled place or town to stand."]}, {"id": "B10.27.8", "lines": ["Iran he loves, but to Turan will show", "A face of vengeance burning toward the foe.”"]}, {"id": "B10.27.9", "lines": ["Now when brave Giv and Khosrow reached the tide,", "They sought with urgent haste the farther side."]}, {"id": "B10.27.10", "lines": ["They found the toll-man waiting by the shore,", "And soon their words broke into sharp uproar."]}, {"id": "B10.27.11", "lines": ["Then Giv spoke first: “Where is your swift-set sail,", "A boat fit for Kay Khosrow without fail?”"]}, {"id": "B10.27.12", "lines": ["The toll-man said: “What difference rank or name?", "The river treats both low and high the same."]}, {"id": "B10.27.13", "lines": ["If you would cross, then pay the proper fee;", "No man, however high, may cross for free.”"]}, {"id": "B10.27.14", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “Name what you wish as toll;", "The foe is near; speak quickly, name the whole.”"]}, {"id": "B10.27.15", "lines": ["The toll-man heard and swiftly ventured near,", "Then turned to Giv and made his purpose clear:"]}, {"id": "B10.27.16", "lines": ["“No trifling toll is what I ask from you;", "Of these four things, surrender one as due:"]}, {"id": "B10.27.17", "lines": ["Your jowshan, or your horse of darkest hue,", "The serving woman, or the Shah’s crown too.”"]}, {"id": "B10.27.18", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “Your wits have gone astray.", "Do words like these befit a man today?"]}, {"id": "B10.27.19", "lines": ["Were every toll-station a city’s seat,", "You might claim some share of what you meet."]}, {"id": "B10.27.20", "lines": ["But who are you to make such wild demand,", "A wind-head weighing air within his hand?"]}, {"id": "B10.27.21", "lines": ["You claim the Shah’s own mother in your pride,", "And ask his crown as toll upon this tide!"]}, {"id": "B10.27.22", "lines": ["Or take Shabrang Behzad, peerless in force,", "Who outstrips the wind; no swifter horse!"]}, {"id": "B10.27.23", "lines": ["Or strip me of the jowshan worn in war,", "Whose knotted craft no eye can fully explore."]}, {"id": "B10.27.24", "lines": ["No water harms its iron, linked entire,", "And not one ring gives way before the fire."]}, {"id": "B10.27.25", "lines": ["No spear, no Indian sword, no arrow’s flight", "Can pierce this jowshan, break its woven might."]}, {"id": "B10.27.26", "lines": ["The water is for us; the boat is yours;", "Yet toward the Shah your insolence endures.”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.1", "lines": ["Then Giv addressed the prince: “If Khosrow’s name", "Is truly yours, this flood shall bring no shame."]}, {"id": "B10.28.2", "lines": ["When Fereydoon once crossed the Arvand’s tide,", "His farr made all the world bow at his side."]}, {"id": "B10.28.3", "lines": ["If Shah of Iran, refuge of the brave,", "Why should you fear the fury of this wave?"]}, {"id": "B10.28.4", "lines": ["With farr and royal station as your right,", "How can these waters overcome your might?"]}, {"id": "B10.28.5", "lines": ["If your mother or I sink in the deep,", "Do not lament; your life is ours to keep."]}, {"id": "B10.28.6", "lines": ["The world desired the child your mother bore;", "The Shahanshah’s throne will lack its king no more."]}, {"id": "B10.28.7", "lines": ["My mother bore me for this very end,", "To serve your throne, your royal life defend."]}, {"id": "B10.28.8", "lines": ["Delay, or Afrasiab soon will ride,", "And reach us raging at the river’s side."]}, {"id": "B10.28.9", "lines": ["He will then hang me from the gallows high,", "Then cast you both to fish, or hooves, to die.”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.10", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said: “Enough. So be it done.", "My refuge rests in Yazdan, saving One.”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.11", "lines": ["He left his steed and cried in fervent need,", "Then laid his face upon the dust to plead:"]}, {"id": "B10.28.12", "lines": ["“You are my refuge, strength, and guiding way;", "Your justice lights the darkness of my day."]}, {"id": "B10.28.13", "lines": ["In ease and hardship, farr from You it springs;", "My soul and wisdom shelter beneath Your wings.”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.14", "lines": ["He rose, a morning star before their sight,", "Then mounted Shabrang, radiant and bright."]}, {"id": "B10.28.15", "lines": ["He urged the dark horse into Jihun’s tide,", "And like a ship across the flood did ride."]}, {"id": "B10.28.16", "lines": ["With Giv and Farangis close at his side,", "All three passed through the swelling waters wide."]}, {"id": "B10.28.17", "lines": ["Beyond the flood they reached the farther land;", "He washed his head and body on the strand."]}, {"id": "B10.28.18", "lines": ["Among the reeds he prayed with heart made pure,", "And praised the Maker, whose great works endure."]}, {"id": "B10.28.19", "lines": ["The ferryman, amazed at what he saw,", "Stood stunned and silent, filled with fear and awe."]}, {"id": "B10.28.20", "lines": ["He said: “Behold a marvel none can meet;", "No mortal mind could grasp so strange a feat."]}, {"id": "B10.28.21", "lines": ["In springtime Jihun, through its raging spans,", "Three steeds, three jowshans, three bargostvans."]}, {"id": "B10.28.22", "lines": ["No sage would number them with mortal kind,", "Who crossed such depths and left the flood behind.”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.23", "lines": ["He cursed the raw demand that he had made,", "And saw his market ruined by the trade."]}, {"id": "B10.28.24", "lines": ["He loaded all his goods into his boat,", "And raised its sail to follow, set afloat."]}, {"id": "B10.28.25", "lines": ["He came behind the Shah to make amends,", "And reached him where the riverbank extends:"]}, {"id": "B10.28.26", "lines": ["A bow, a casque, a kamand finely wrought,", "With all the goods his ferryboat had brought."]}, {"id": "B10.28.27", "lines": ["But Giv replied: “You witless dog!” he cried.", "“You claimed the stream would sweep us in its tide."]}, {"id": "B10.28.28", "lines": ["To such a Shah, who asked you for a boat,", "You gave refusal, keeping it afloat."]}, {"id": "B10.28.29", "lines": ["Now keep your gifts; your offerings are vain;", "A day will come when you recall this pain.”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.30", "lines": ["The ferryman withdrew in grief and dread,", "As though he bade farewell to life instead."]}, {"id": "B10.28.31", "lines": ["Still sore afraid, he neared the ferry lane,", "The Turanian army reached the river plain."]}, {"id": "B10.28.32", "lines": ["He saw no boat, no rider in the stream;", "Afrasiab cried out, his wrath a scream:"]}, {"id": "B10.28.33", "lines": ["“How did that Div cross Jihun’s raging span?", "What secret path was found by such a man?”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.34", "lines": ["The ferryman replied: “My father kept", "This toll before me; I in turn accept."]}, {"id": "B10.28.35", "lines": ["Yet never have I heard or seen it said", "That Jihun could be crossed like earth instead."]}, {"id": "B10.28.36", "lines": ["In flood-time no one entering survives;", "The waves drag all beneath and take their lives."]}, {"id": "B10.28.37", "lines": ["Yet these three riders crossed as though they flew,", "As if the sky itself had borne them through."]}, {"id": "B10.28.38", "lines": ["They seemed as though the wind itself gave birth,", "Or Yazdan sent them among men on earth.”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.39", "lines": ["Afrasiab grew pale at what was told,", "And sighed from grief, his breath and spirit cold."]}, {"id": "B10.28.40", "lines": ["He said: “Launch now the boat with all your might;", "Make ready fast and follow in their flight."]}, {"id": "B10.28.41", "lines": ["See where the fugitives have gone from here,", "Or whether they lie sleeping somewhere near."]}, {"id": "B10.28.42", "lines": ["Bring up the boat; no longer pause or wait;", "We must discover where they stopped of late.”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.43", "lines": ["Then Houman spoke: “O king, restrain your fire,", "And do not let rash fury rule desire."]}, {"id": "B10.28.44", "lines": ["Would you pursue Iran with this small band,", "And fall to lions waiting in that land?"]}, {"id": "B10.28.45", "lines": ["Gudarz stands close with Piltan Rostam near,", "And Tus, and Gorgin, breaker of the spear."]}, {"id": "B10.28.46", "lines": ["Have you grown weary of your throne and crown,", "To seek the lions’ claws that strike you down?"]}, {"id": "B10.28.47", "lines": ["Your realm from Chin to Machin still endures;", "The sun, moon, Saturn, Pleiades are yours."]}, {"id": "B10.28.48", "lines": ["No harm from Iran need disturb you now;", "Hold fast your realm beneath your royal brow.”"]}, {"id": "B10.28.49", "lines": ["So from Jihun they turned with hearts blood-red,", "And afterward long days and seasons fled."]}, {"id": "B10.29.1", "lines": ["When Khosrow and brave Giv reached Zam, mankind", "Knew joy and sorrow in the world combined."]}, {"id": "B10.29.2", "lines": ["Then Giv sent messengers through hill and field,", "With letters written, signed, and firmly sealed:"]}, {"id": "B10.29.3", "lines": ["“From Turan comes the prince of Qobad’s race,", "The blessed Khosrow, born to royal grace."]}, {"id": "B10.29.4", "lines": ["He crossed the Jihun’s fierce and surging flow;", "Beneath his steed its waters rushed below.”"]}, {"id": "B10.29.5", "lines": ["He chose a man discerning, wise, and true,", "A loyal rider, steadfast through and through,"]}, {"id": "B10.29.6", "lines": ["From Zam’s renowned and trusted men was he;", "Giv told him all that passed, then gave decree:"]}, {"id": "B10.29.7", "lines": ["And said: “Ride hard, to Isfahan proceed,", "Where kings reside and noble warriors lead."]}, {"id": "B10.29.8", "lines": ["Tell Gudarz this: ‘Though sleeping, you could see;", "Your spirit stayed awake and showed what would be."]}, {"id": "B10.29.9", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow now stands safe within Zam’s gate;", "May no ill wind disturb his royal state.’”"]}, {"id": "B10.29.10", "lines": ["He wrote as well to Kavus, Iran’s king,", "And sent a swift-paced messenger on wing."]}, {"id": "B10.29.11", "lines": ["The foam-flinging camels sprang away,", "Like fire they sped and never checked their way."]}, {"id": "B10.29.12", "lines": ["He reached Gudarz at last with urgent speed,", "And stood before the chief to tell his need."]}, {"id": "B10.29.13", "lines": ["He gave the letter, told what Giv had said;", "Gudarz received it, pressed it to his head."]}, {"id": "B10.29.14", "lines": ["The old chief wept Siavash, grief made new,", "And cursed Afrasiab for blood he drew."]}, {"id": "B10.29.15", "lines": ["The courier came to Kavus, worn and wet,", "And wiped the camel manes of foaming sweat. "]}, {"id": "B10.29.16", "lines": ["He then entered the great royal hall,", "And cries of joy rang out from wall to wall."]}, {"id": "B10.29.17", "lines": ["The king received the letter Giv had sent,", "And jewels on its written words he spent."]}, {"id": "B10.29.18", "lines": ["The world was decked in joy from end to end,", "And minstrels summoned, song and praise to blend."]}, {"id": "B10.29.19", "lines": ["Word of Giv’s victory reached Rostam’s ear,", "In Nimruz, bringing welcome joy and cheer."]}, {"id": "B10.29.20", "lines": ["He gave the poor his gold with open hand,", "For Giv the lion safe and whole did stand."]}, {"id": "B10.29.21", "lines": ["Then Banu Gashasp rode forth with wealth in train,", "Fire-swift she hurried over road and plain."]}, {"id": "B10.29.22", "lines": ["Twelve hundred chiefs renowned in every land,", "With jeweled crowns and thrones, rode in her band."]}, {"id": "B10.29.23", "lines": ["Three hundred attendants joined the throng,", "Six score young pages bore gold cups along."]}, {"id": "B10.29.24", "lines": ["The lady left her father like a bird,", "And flew upon the road as soon as stirred."]}, {"id": "B10.29.25", "lines": ["Toward Giv and Isfahan she took her way,", "With Rostam’s wealth displayed in bright array."]}, {"id": "B10.29.26", "lines": ["“The prince has come! The royal heir draws near!”", "And all the land was filled with hope and cheer."]}, {"id": "B10.29.27", "lines": ["The nobles gathered from the farthest place,", "And turned toward Isfahan with eager pace."]}, {"id": "B10.29.28", "lines": ["Gudarz prepared his hall with splendid care,", "And hung rich brocades, finely woven, rare."]}, {"id": "B10.29.29", "lines": ["A throne was set with jewels, gold, and light,", "Fit for a king of sovereign rank and might."]}, {"id": "B10.29.30", "lines": ["A charger decked with torque and earrings gleamed,", "Beside a crown with royal gems that beamed."]}, {"id": "B10.29.31", "lines": ["He had the city and the meydan dressed,", "Then mounted to go meet his royal guest."]}, {"id": "B10.29.32", "lines": ["The nobles of renown rose at his call,", "And made themselves prepared to greet him all."]}, {"id": "B10.29.33", "lines": ["Eighty farsangs they rode out to meet", "The royal heir and bow before his feet."]}, {"id": "B10.29.34", "lines": ["When Giv appeared with Khosrow at his side,", "The warriors dismounted, ranks spread wide."]}, {"id": "B10.29.35", "lines": ["Gudarz beheld the Shah upon the way,", "And Giv beside him as they neared that day."]}, {"id": "B10.29.36", "lines": ["Then yellow tears ran down the old chief’s face,", "As Siavash returned to memory’s place."]}, {"id": "B10.29.37", "lines": ["He stepped down from his steed and drew him near,", "And clasped the young Shah close with love sincere."]}, {"id": "B10.29.38", "lines": ["He praised him, bowed, and spoke in accents clear:", "“O king of earth, may fortune hold you dear."]}, {"id": "B10.29.39", "lines": ["May fortune keep you wakeful, crown on head;", "No realm or throne would serve me in your stead."]}, {"id": "B10.29.40", "lines": ["May every evil eye be turned aside,", "And may your father’s soul in joy abide."]}, {"id": "B10.29.41", "lines": ["Yazdan, who rules the world, my witness be:", "The sight of you restores the life in me."]}, {"id": "B10.29.42", "lines": ["Were Siavash living here before my eyes,", "No deeper joy within my heart could rise.”"]}, {"id": "B10.29.43", "lines": ["He kissed brave Giv upon the eyes and head,", "“You drew to light what heaven hid,” he said."]}, {"id": "B10.29.44", "lines": ["“You brought my dream to life, a warrior strong,", "And know when patient waiting must be long.”"]}, {"id": "B10.29.45", "lines": ["Then all Iran’s great chiefs bowed to the ground,", "And placed their faces on the earth around."]}, {"id": "B10.29.46", "lines": ["They turned again rejoicing on their way,", "Their fortunes brightened from that very day."]}, {"id": "B10.29.47", "lines": ["They reached the hall of Gudarz filled with light,", "And feasted there in joyful, long delight."]}, {"id": "B10.29.48", "lines": ["For seven days they drank and celebrated,", "Their hearts with wine and victory elated."]}, {"id": "B10.29.49", "lines": ["Then on the eighth day, joyful at the start,", "They took the road toward Kavus, glad of heart."]}, {"id": "B10.30.1", "lines": ["When Khosrow stood before the royal throne,", "The world with scent and color brightly shone."]}, {"id": "B10.30.2", "lines": ["The walls and roofs were hung with precious things,", "While music rose from harps and flutes and strings."]}, {"id": "B10.30.3", "lines": ["Rosewater, wine, and musk the courts supplied,", "And saffron richly scattered far and wide."]}, {"id": "B10.30.4", "lines": ["The horses’ manes were drenched with scent and wine,", "While sugar, dirhams, lay beneath the line."]}, {"id": "B10.30.5", "lines": ["Tears filled the eyes of Kavus at the view,", "As Khosrow’s face shone radiant and new."]}, {"id": "B10.30.6", "lines": ["He left his throne and stepped down from his place,", "And pressed his eyes and face to Khosrow’s face."]}, {"id": "B10.30.7", "lines": ["The youthful prince bowed low with royal grace,", "Then hand in hand, they sought the throne’s embrace."]}, {"id": "B10.30.8", "lines": ["The Shah asked news of Turan and its king,", "And of the throne from which its warlords spring."]}, {"id": "B10.30.9", "lines": ["The prince replied: “That man of little worth", "Still spreads his evil over all the earth."]}, {"id": "B10.30.10", "lines": ["Why ask of him? May joy be his no more;", "May crown nor throne be his forevermore."]}, {"id": "B10.30.11", "lines": ["He slew my father in a shameful way,", "And struck my mother cruelly that day."]}, {"id": "B10.30.12", "lines": ["He sought to kill me in her womb before", "My birth; may grief pursue him evermore."]}, {"id": "B10.30.13", "lines": ["When I was born, he sent me far away,", "To mountain lands where beasts and cattle stray."]}, {"id": "B10.30.14", "lines": ["Among goats, buffalo, and herds I stayed,", "And counted passing days by sun and shade."]}, {"id": "B10.30.15", "lines": ["At last came Piran riding from the height,", "And placed me before Afrasiab’s sight."]}, {"id": "B10.30.16", "lines": ["I trembled then before his savage face,", "And feared what doom might lead me to disgrace."]}, {"id": "B10.30.17", "lines": ["He questioned me, but I concealed my mind,", "My wisdom and my honar kept confined."]}, {"id": "B10.30.18", "lines": ["If he said “head,” I answered him with “feet”;", "If he said “food,” I spoke about the street."]}, {"id": "B10.30.19", "lines": ["God clouded all his wisdom and his sight,", "And he judged me witless in his spite."]}, {"id": "B10.30.20", "lines": ["He deemed my mind devoid of worth or art,", "Then cursed me, sent me to my mother’s part."]}, {"id": "B10.30.21", "lines": ["Though skies of purest white poured pearls like rain,", "My father’s killer cannot friendship gain.”"]}, {"id": "B10.30.22", "lines": ["Then Kavus said: “O prince of high renown,", "The world itself has need of such a crown."]}, {"id": "B10.30.23", "lines": ["Of noble gohar, sprung from noble line,", "Wise and deserving as great Shahs who shine.”"]}, {"id": "B10.30.24", "lines": ["Then Khosrow spoke again to Kavus Shah:", "“O world-experienced king, hear what I saw."]}, {"id": "B10.30.25", "lines": ["If I recount the deeds that Giv has done,", "You will hear his trials; every single one."]}, {"id": "B10.30.26", "lines": ["You would be struck with wonder at the tale;", "No greater measure could the mind unveil."]}, {"id": "B10.30.27", "lines": ["He crossed through Turan searching far and wide,", "And met each hardship with a steadfast stride."]}, {"id": "B10.30.28", "lines": ["Had Giv endured no other sacrifice,", "To bring me back from Turan would suffice."]}, {"id": "B10.30.29", "lines": ["Two mighty chiefs pursued us with their band,", "Like blazing flames across the desert land."]}, {"id": "B10.30.30", "lines": ["No raging elephant in Hind could show", "The deeds I saw from Giv against the foe."]}, {"id": "B10.30.31", "lines": ["No nahang rising from the deepest sea", "Could fight in such a way as he for me."]}, {"id": "B10.30.32", "lines": ["Two Pahlevans and all their army fled,", "And every man recoiled from him in dread."]}, {"id": "B10.30.33", "lines": ["Then Piran, lion-like, rode into sight,", "Upon a wind-swift horse, prepared to fight."]}, {"id": "B10.30.34", "lines": ["But Giv let fly his kamand with great might,", "And caught the chief’s head in its loop drawn tight."]}, {"id": "B10.30.35", "lines": ["I pleaded for him in the heat of strife,", "Or Giv had surely taken Piran’s life."]}, {"id": "B10.30.36", "lines": ["His heart for what befell my father bled,", "And no ill word against us had he said."]}, {"id": "B10.30.37", "lines": ["He saved my mother and he rescued me", "From Afrasiab’s raging cruelty."]}, {"id": "B10.30.38", "lines": ["Else Afrasiab would have struck me dead,", "As once from Siavash he severed head."]}, {"id": "B10.30.39", "lines": ["Till Jihun’s bank he fought through every raid,", "His ox-head gorz at every turn displayed."]}, {"id": "B10.30.40", "lines": ["Then through the Jihun Giv passed on with me,", "Heedless of water or dry land was he."]}, {"id": "B10.30.41", "lines": ["May such a warrior, steadfast, brave, and bold,", "Remain forever young and never old.”"]}, {"id": "B10.30.42", "lines": ["When Kavus heard these words, his face grew bright,", "Like spring’s first rose beneath the morning light."]}, {"id": "B10.30.43", "lines": ["He clasped brave Giv, kissed head and face, and then", "He honored him before his noblemen."]}, {"id": "B10.30.44", "lines": ["He blessed Gudarz, his country, and his land,", "And called down blessings on them where they stand."]}, {"id": "B10.30.45", "lines": ["He gave brave Giv a robe of honor rare,", "Whose like no great or humble man could wear."]}, {"id": "B10.30.46", "lines": ["On parniyan a royal charter named", "Khorasan, Rey, Qum, Isfahan, proclaimed."]}, {"id": "B10.30.47", "lines": ["The Jamshid-farr Shah granted him the land,", "And Giv raised high his head where all could stand."]}, {"id": "B10.30.48", "lines": ["The Shah declared: “Your toil is now repaid;", "Take now your share of treasures here arrayed.”"]}, {"id": "B10.30.49", "lines": ["Then Gudarz and his sons, with voices raised,", "The Shah and all his royal bounty praised."]}, {"id": "B10.30.50", "lines": ["Before the Shah they placed their heads on earth,", "And each called blessings on the monarch’s worth."]}, {"id": "B10.30.51", "lines": ["A rich retreat for Farangis was made,", "With golden torque and earrings there displayed."]}, {"id": "B10.30.52", "lines": ["In every eyvan golden seats were laid,", "With Chinese brocade grandly overlaid."]}, {"id": "B10.30.53", "lines": ["The Shah then said: “O peerless Lady, hear;", "May grief not bend you through the coming year."]}, {"id": "B10.30.54", "lines": ["You left your land, your home, your kin behind,", "And bore the road’s hard trials with steadfast mind."]}, {"id": "B10.30.55", "lines": ["Now Iran is your home, secure and wide;", "Henceforth your counsel shall become my guide.”"]}, {"id": "B10.30.56", "lines": ["The women all blessed Farangis in prayer:", "“May time and earth preserve you in their care.”"]}, {"id": "B10.31.1", "lines": ["At Istakhr stood old Keshvad’s palace grand,", "The nobles prized its splendor through the land."]}, {"id": "B10.31.2", "lines": ["When from King Kavus’s throne at last they rose,", "They made for Keshvad’s eyvan as they chose."]}, {"id": "B10.31.3", "lines": ["Gudarz went with the Shah toward that bower,", "And reached the golden garden in its flower."]}, {"id": "B10.31.4", "lines": ["They placed the prince upon a golden throne,", "And blessed him there as Shah before his own."]}, {"id": "B10.31.5", "lines": ["Iran’s great champions girded at the sign,", "But Tus, son of Nohzar, turned from the line."]}, {"id": "B10.31.6", "lines": ["He held the koust and golden shoes of state,", "And Kaveh’s banner, signs that marked the great."]}, {"id": "B10.31.7", "lines": ["Gudarz grew angry, hot with wrath inside,", "And chose brave Giv to bear his words to Tus’s side."]}, {"id": "B10.31.8", "lines": ["A champion’s grip was strong within his hand,", "A lion’s arm renowned throughout the land."]}, {"id": "B10.31.9", "lines": ["He said: “Go speak to Tus, son of Nohzar:", "Seek not dispute when joy has come so far."]}, {"id": "B10.31.10", "lines": ["The nobles and the lions of the court", "Have blessed the prince, united in support."]}, {"id": "B10.31.11", "lines": ["Why heed a Div and turn your head away,", "Nor see the ruler’s farr that lights his way?"]}, {"id": "B10.31.12", "lines": ["If you refuse young Khosrow as your king,", "Then feud with Gudarz is what you will bring."]}, {"id": "B10.31.13", "lines": ["These words are mine; the gathered chiefs agree;", "Go bear our message, Giv, by their decree."]}, {"id": "B10.31.14", "lines": ["Stand before Tus and speak what you have heard;", "Tell him: ‘Turn not your head from any word.’”"]}, {"id": "B10.31.15", "lines": ["Giv left his father, turning from his place,", "His heart filled full of harsh words for the case."]}, {"id": "B10.31.16", "lines": ["He said: “O Tus, this counsel you now choose,", "Has found no fellowship with wisdom’s use.”"]}, {"id": "B10.31.17", "lines": ["Then Tus replied: “Do not make sport of me;", "Such mockery does not suit our dignity."]}, {"id": "B10.31.18", "lines": ["In Iran, save for Rostam’s towering might,", "I stand the foremost in the field of fight."]}, {"id": "B10.31.19", "lines": ["My line descends from mighty Manuchehr,", "Whose sword brought all the world beneath his care."]}, {"id": "B10.31.20", "lines": ["My father Nohzar ruled the earth as king,", "From Fereydoon’s old stock my branches spring."]}, {"id": "B10.31.21", "lines": ["In battle I am lion in my pride;", "I tear the elephant’s heart, the leopard’s hide."]}, {"id": "B10.31.22", "lines": ["Yet without me you shaped the council’s plan,", "And raised a new king over every man."]}, {"id": "B10.31.23", "lines": ["I will not stand behind this reckless choice,", "Nor speak of Khosrow with approving voice."]}, {"id": "B10.31.24", "lines": ["If Afrasiab’s seed should take the throne,", "Then Iran’s fortune sleeps, its power flown."]}, {"id": "B10.31.25", "lines": ["We need no king sprung from Pashang’s seed;", "No flock can prosper where a leopard feeds."]}, {"id": "B10.31.26", "lines": ["Such toil for one so young has gone astray;", "For Khosrow is but young, though bold in fray."]}, {"id": "B10.31.27", "lines": ["A king needs honar, gohar, din, and farr,", "The marks that show how fit for rule men are."]}, {"id": "B10.31.28", "lines": ["Fariborz, son of Kavus, stands more fit", "Than Khosrow does, upon the throne to sit."]}, {"id": "B10.31.29", "lines": ["No enemy blood runs through his noble line;", "His farr and burz, his mehr and justice shine.”"]}, {"id": "B10.31.30", "lines": ["Then Giv rose grimly from the chief’s own place;", "His knowledge and his creed seemed raw and base."]}, {"id": "B10.31.31", "lines": ["He said: “O Tus, renowned in battle’s course,", "Turn not away when koust calls forth the force."]}, {"id": "B10.31.32", "lines": ["When spears of Gudarz’s kin advance in line,", "Your hopes of gain will wither and decline."]}, {"id": "B10.31.33", "lines": ["Together we have borne long toil and strain,", "Yet now you cast it to the wind as vain."]}, {"id": "B10.31.34", "lines": ["Had farr and sound good counsel been your prize,", "No king from Alborz would have had to rise."]}, {"id": "B10.31.35", "lines": ["No crown rests on your head; your mind lacks light;", "No royal wisdom keeps your judgment right."]}, {"id": "B10.31.36", "lines": ["For God bestows the throne on him alone", "Whose farr and burz with soundest judgment shone.”"]}, {"id": "B10.31.37", "lines": ["Thus spoke he fiercely, turning from the place,", "And left in anger, scorning Tus’s face."]}, {"id": "B10.31.38", "lines": ["Returning, Giv told Gudarz what was true:", "“With Tus no farr or wisdom has its due."]}, {"id": "B10.31.39", "lines": ["His eyes seem blind to what they ought to see;", "He chooses Fariborz for sovereignty."]}, {"id": "B10.31.40", "lines": ["No king like Khosrow graces eyvan bright,", "Nor rides the golden saddle with such right."]}, {"id": "B10.31.41", "lines": ["No rider like him comes through Iran’s land;", "On throne, with torque and earrings, none so grand.”"]}, {"id": "B10.32.1", "lines": ["Gudarz in wrath declared: “May Tus grow less,", "May his renown diminish through excess."]}, {"id": "B10.32.2", "lines": ["Now let him learn whom throne and rule befit,", "Whose farr, orung, and fortune sanction it.”"]}, {"id": "B10.32.3", "lines": ["His sons and grandsons, seventy-eight in all,", "He called the koust to meydan from the hall."]}, {"id": "B10.32.4", "lines": ["Twelve thousand fighting horsemen, rank on rank,", "Rode out on steeds in bargostvans, flank to flank."]}, {"id": "B10.32.5", "lines": ["A messenger came straight to Tus with word:", "“Gudarz has marched; his koust has now been stirred.”"]}, {"id": "B10.32.6", "lines": ["Then Tus, the battle-chief, came forth in force,", "With koust on elephants along his course."]}, {"id": "B10.32.7", "lines": ["His warriors girded tight for coming strife,", "The Kaviani standard rose to life."]}, {"id": "B10.32.8", "lines": ["When Tus beheld the troops that Gudarz led,", "The sun and moon grew dark above his head."]}, {"id": "B10.32.9", "lines": ["A mighty elephant, of stately gait,", "Advanced; its turquoise throne shone bright, ornate."]}, {"id": "B10.32.10", "lines": ["Upon that throne sat Khosrow crowned and bright,", "His waist was girded, stern and full of might."]}, {"id": "B10.32.11", "lines": ["Two hundred elephants around him spread,", "Till earth itself seemed hidden where they tread."]}, {"id": "B10.32.12", "lines": ["He shone like moonlight from the royal throne,", "A ruby crown above his temples shone."]}, {"id": "B10.32.13", "lines": ["His armlet, torque, and earrings flashed with light,", "His ox-head gorz held firmly for the fight."]}, {"id": "B10.32.14", "lines": ["Then Tus reflected, troubled in his mind:", "“If battle starts, what ruin shall we find?"]}, {"id": "B10.32.15", "lines": ["Countless men on either side would fall,", "And this feud would not leave Iran at all."]}, {"id": "B10.32.16", "lines": ["Afrasiab would rejoice to see this day,", "And Turan’s fortunes wake while ours decay."]}, {"id": "B10.32.17", "lines": ["The Shahanshah’s throne could pass to Turan’s reign,", "And all the days of our good fortune wane.”"]}, {"id": "B10.32.18", "lines": ["He sent a man both swift in mind and wise,", "To reach King Kavus and speak before his eyes:"]}, {"id": "B10.32.19", "lines": ["“If but one shaft be set upon the bow,", "A feud will rise whose end no man can know."]}, {"id": "B10.32.20", "lines": ["Such feud would fill Afrasiab with delight,", "And be the only dream he sees all night.”"]}, {"id": "B10.33.1", "lines": ["When Kavus heard these tidings, wise and grave,", "He sent for Gudarz and for Tus the brave."]}, {"id": "B10.33.2", "lines": ["He sent a messenger from royal hall,", "To reach the champions with his urgent call:"]}, {"id": "B10.33.3", "lines": ["“O world-experienced lion, hear me speak:", "Pour not black poison in the milk you seek."]}, {"id": "B10.33.4", "lines": ["Sheathe now your swords, unbind your belts of war;", "Let no harm rise from what has gone before."]}, {"id": "B10.33.5", "lines": ["Let both sepahbods come before my seat,", "Each one alone, and face to face to meet.”"]}, {"id": "B10.33.6", "lines": ["Then Tus and Gudarz came, their duty known,", "And spoke before the king in measured tone."]}, {"id": "B10.33.7", "lines": ["Tus said: “If you are weary of what kingship brings,", "If weary too of throne and crown of kings,"]}, {"id": "B10.33.8", "lines": ["Then let your son inherit throne and might;", "The diadem and treasure are his right."]}, {"id": "B10.33.9", "lines": ["Why should a grandson take the royal place,", "While still a son remains of kingly race?"]}, {"id": "B10.33.10", "lines": ["In him the Kayan farr and burz appear;", "He girds himself like lion without fear.”"]}, {"id": "B10.33.11", "lines": ["Then Gudarz said: “Your wisdom is too small;", "No wise man counts you wise among them all."]}, {"id": "B10.33.12", "lines": ["No man has equaled Siavash in worth,", "So generous, noble, gentle on this earth."]}, {"id": "B10.33.13", "lines": ["And this world-seeking prince, Siavash’s son,", "In face and form, the two would seem as one."]}, {"id": "B10.33.14", "lines": ["Though on his mother’s side he springs from Tur,", "Yet royal blood and justice both endure."]}, {"id": "B10.33.15", "lines": ["No man in Iran or Turan is his peer;", "Why speak such raw and unripe counsel here?"]}, {"id": "B10.33.16", "lines": ["You have not seen his stature, face, and frame,", "Nor known the mehr that shines about his name."]}, {"id": "B10.33.17", "lines": ["He crossed the Jihun, seeking not a boat;", "Kayanian farr and sense kept him afloat."]}, {"id": "B10.33.18", "lines": ["As Fereydoon once crossed the Arvand’s tide,", "So Khosrow passed with royal farr as guide."]}, {"id": "B10.33.19", "lines": ["Through courage, and the farr Yazdan displays,", "He bound the evil heart and hand and gaze."]}, {"id": "B10.33.20", "lines": ["For father’s blood, the prince now takes his stand,", "A lion girded, vengeance in his hand."]}, {"id": "B10.33.21", "lines": ["He will restore the peace of Iran’s land,", "And hold Afrasiab’s wits in command."]}, {"id": "B10.33.22", "lines": ["Soroush revealed in dreams his destined rise;", "His farr shall still Iran before our eyes."]}, {"id": "B10.33.23", "lines": ["When he assumes the crown and kingly seat,", "The world shall rest from hardship and defeat."]}, {"id": "B10.33.24", "lines": ["You spring from Nohzar’s line, no stranger here;", "Your father too was rash; your madness clear."]}, {"id": "B10.33.25", "lines": ["Were arms at hand, your breast and shoulders red", "Would swim in blood before this quarrel fled."]}, {"id": "B10.33.26", "lines": ["My sword would wound you in the field outright,", "And end your empty boasting in the fight."]}, {"id": "B10.33.27", "lines": ["You sow division through the Kayan line,", "And cast yourself in pride by your design."]}, {"id": "B10.33.28", "lines": ["The Shahanshah knows whom his heart will own;", "To him the king will give the royal throne.”"]}, {"id": "B10.33.29", "lines": ["Then Tus replied: “O chief made wise by age,", "Your words bring little pleasure at this stage."]}, {"id": "B10.33.30", "lines": ["If Keshvad’s line gives honor to your name,", "I am Tus, Nohzar’s son of royal fame."]}, {"id": "B10.33.31", "lines": ["If your blade cleaves an anvil with one blow,", "My spear can split Mount Kaf and lay it low."]}, {"id": "B10.33.32", "lines": ["Why should we two now fight, and to what aim?", "The Shah knows well which prince deserves the claim.”"]}, {"id": "B10.33.33", "lines": ["Gudarz replied: “Enough of what you say;", "I see no such great honor in your way.”"]}, {"id": "B10.33.34", "lines": ["He turned to Kavus: “World-experienced king,", "Keep to the rightful path in everything."]}, {"id": "B10.33.35", "lines": ["Call both worthy princes to your seat;", "Both young, both worthy, both for kingship meet."]}, {"id": "B10.33.36", "lines": ["Then judge which prince has burz and godly farr,", "And which is worthier of rule by far."]}, {"id": "B10.33.37", "lines": ["Bestow the crown on him who proves most fit,", "And gladly see your son as monarch sit.”"]}, {"id": "B10.33.38", "lines": ["Kavus replied: “This counsel is not right;", "Both sons are equal in my heart and sight."]}, {"id": "B10.33.39", "lines": ["Whichever I choose, the other will complain,", "And turn against me with a heart of pain."]}, {"id": "B10.33.40", "lines": ["I will devise a trial none may blame,", "So neither turns resentment on my name."]}, {"id": "B10.33.41", "lines": ["Let each lead troops to Ardabil and ride,", "Each with his own array, as I decide."]}, {"id": "B10.33.42", "lines": ["At Bahman-diz upon that border height,", "All year Ahriman keeps alive the fight."]}, {"id": "B10.33.43", "lines": ["The God-worshipper suffers Ahriman’s hand;", "No Mobad dares to settle in that land."]}, {"id": "B10.33.44", "lines": ["Who with the sword that fortress overthrows", "Shall have the treasure that the Shah bestows.”"]}, {"id": "B10.33.45", "lines": ["Gudarz and Tus both heard the royal plan,", "And praised the wise foundation it began."]}, {"id": "B10.33.46", "lines": ["The two agreed and judged the counsel best,", "For neither knew a wiser road or test."]}, {"id": "B10.33.47", "lines": ["Upon this pact they set their hearts that day,", "Then rose before the Shah and went their way."]}, {"id": "B10.34.1", "lines": ["When Sol in Leo rose and night withdrew,", "And heaven cast the darkness out of view,"]}, {"id": "B10.34.2", "lines": ["Then Fariborz and Tus, of Nohzar’s line,", "Came before Kavus; Tus spoke his design:"]}, {"id": "B10.34.3", "lines": ["“Now will I take the army in array,", "With elephants and koust to lead the way."]}, {"id": "B10.34.4", "lines": ["I will lift high the Kaviani sign,", "And stain the foe’s proud face with blood like wine."]}, {"id": "B10.34.5", "lines": ["By Fariborz’s farr and Kayan might,", "I will bind on my Kayan girdle tight.”"]}, {"id": "B10.34.6", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Count neither few nor more;", "Yazdan of sun and moon grants strength in war."]}, {"id": "B10.34.7", "lines": ["If Fariborz consents to take the field,", "Then muster all; let no man idle yield.”"]}, {"id": "B10.34.8", "lines": ["Then Tus advanced beneath Kaviani’s sign,", "With forty golden-shod chiefs kept in line."]}, {"id": "B10.34.9", "lines": ["Fariborz held the center, proud and fine,", "While Tus led elephants, a sight divine."]}, {"id": "B10.34.10", "lines": ["When they approached the fortress on the height,", "The earth breathed fire and burned with searing light."]}, {"id": "B10.34.11", "lines": ["The spearheads glowed beneath the burning air,", "And warriors burned, all consumed by fire’s glare."]}, {"id": "B10.34.12", "lines": ["The world was fire; no shelter could be found,", "And Ahriman’s dark snare was all around."]}, {"id": "B10.34.13", "lines": ["Its battlements rose high to heaven’s vault;", "No warrior could wage a fair assault."]}, {"id": "B10.34.14", "lines": ["Then Tus declared: “When warriors meet a foe,", "They cast their foeman’s head to dust below."]}, {"id": "B10.34.15", "lines": ["With sword and bow, with arrow and kamand,", "They seek to strike the foe who makes his stand."]}, {"id": "B10.34.16", "lines": ["But round this fortress not one path was shown;", "If any lay there, none to us was known."]}, {"id": "B10.34.17", "lines": ["Our bodies boil beneath the jowshan’s heat,", "And mounts burn fiercely underneath our feet."]}, {"id": "B10.34.18", "lines": ["Think well upon it: if you fail this day,", "No other man will ever force a way.”"]}, {"id": "B10.34.19", "lines": ["Seven days long they circled round that place,", "Yet nowhere could they find its gate or trace."]}, {"id": "B10.34.20", "lines": ["In hopelessness from battle they withdrew,", "And gained but toil from the long road they knew."]}, {"id": "B10.35.1", "lines": ["When news reached Giv and Gudarz of defeat,", "That Tus and Fariborz had made retreat,"]}, {"id": "B10.35.2", "lines": ["They armed for war; the elephants stood round,", "As Khosrow’s army raised a thundering sound."]}, {"id": "B10.35.3", "lines": ["A throne of gold with emeralds inlaid", "Was on a mighty elephant displayed."]}, {"id": "B10.35.4", "lines": ["A violet standard rose above the line,", "While golden shoes upon his feet did shine."]}, {"id": "B10.35.5", "lines": ["A ruby torque, a jeweled crown of gold,", "Completed all the splendor they behold."]}, {"id": "B10.35.6", "lines": ["Then rose the cry: “This day the world is new;", "World-seeking Khosrow sits in royal view.”"]}, {"id": "B10.35.7", "lines": ["The prince upon the golden throne was placed,", "With crown and gorz, in royal glory graced."]}, {"id": "B10.35.8", "lines": ["With Gudarz, Giv, and all the gathered band,", "He marched against the stronghold of the land."]}, {"id": "B10.35.9", "lines": ["When they drew near, he donned his arms for war,", "Then mounted, girded like the kings before."]}, {"id": "B10.35.10", "lines": ["He called a scribe while seated on his steed,", "And bade him write a blessed royal screed."]}, {"id": "B10.35.11", "lines": ["In Pahlavi with amber they began,", "The royal letter written by his plan:"]}, {"id": "B10.35.12", "lines": ["“From Khosrow, servant of Yazdan on high,", "Whose grace has raised my throne beneath the sky,"]}, {"id": "B10.35.13", "lines": ["Who broke from Ahriman’s enclosing band,", "And turned to Yazdan with a stainless hand,"]}, {"id": "B10.35.14", "lines": ["Eternal, high, the giver of all good,", "The guide who shows the path as no man could;"]}, {"id": "B10.35.15", "lines": ["Yazdan of Saturn, Mars, and blazing Sun,", "Lord of all farr and strength, the Mighty One,"]}, {"id": "B10.35.16", "lines": ["Who gave me orung, Kayan farr to bear,", "An elephant’s frame and lion-claws to tear."]}, {"id": "B10.35.17", "lines": ["The whole world now has entered my command;", "My light and royal farr shine through the land."]}, {"id": "B10.35.18", "lines": ["If Ahriman should hold this fortress here,", "He stands against the Creator, plain and clear."]}, {"id": "B10.35.19", "lines": ["By pure Yazdan’s farr and high decree,", "His cloud-high head shall fall to dust through me."]}, {"id": "B10.35.20", "lines": ["If sorcerers command this fortress wall,", "Against their magic I need no troops at all."]}, {"id": "B10.35.21", "lines": ["My kamand’s loop shall seize each wizard’s head,", "And bind them fast within its circling thread."]}, {"id": "B10.35.22", "lines": ["Though blessed Soroush should dwell within these towers,", "By Yazdan’s word, alone I match their powers."]}, {"id": "B10.35.23", "lines": ["I am not sprung from Ahriman’s dark line;", "In soul and body farr and burz are mine."]}, {"id": "B10.35.24", "lines": ["By Yazdan’s word this fortress shall be freed;", "The Shahanshah’s own word is now decreed.”"]}, {"id": "B10.35.25", "lines": ["Then Khosrow took a long and mighty spear,", "And bound the royal letter, plain and clear."]}, {"id": "B10.35.26", "lines": ["He raised it like a standard in the air,", "And sought no prize but royal farr to bear."]}, {"id": "B10.35.27", "lines": ["He called to Giv and gave him this command:", "“Take up this spear and do as I have planned."]}, {"id": "B10.35.28", "lines": ["Bear forth this letter, stern in warning, high,", "And bring it where the rampart meets the sky."]}, {"id": "B10.35.29", "lines": ["Invoke Yazdan, then turn your reins away;", "Do not remain beside the wall or stay.”"]}, {"id": "B10.35.30", "lines": ["Then faithful Giv, with blessings, rode to fight,", "The spear in hand, toward the fortress height."]}, {"id": "B10.35.31", "lines": ["Through Khosrow’s farr he fixed it in the wall,", "The royal letter set beyond recall."]}, {"id": "B10.35.32", "lines": ["He praised Yazdan, the giver of the good,", "Then wheeled his white horse swiftly as he could."]}, {"id": "B10.35.33", "lines": ["The famous letter vanished; in its stead", "A crash rose up, and dust above it spread."]}, {"id": "B10.35.34", "lines": ["By Yazdan’s high command the rampart split,", "Its mighty wall was torn from where it knit."]}, {"id": "B10.35.35", "lines": ["Like thunder with the spring wind came the sound;", "From mountain, field, and plain the roars resound."]}, {"id": "B10.35.36", "lines": ["The world turned black as Zangi’s face in night;", "Sun, Pleiades, and moon were lost from sight."]}, {"id": "B10.35.37", "lines": ["A dark cloud rose and filled the shrouded air;", "The heavens gaped like lion’s jaws laid bare."]}, {"id": "B10.35.38", "lines": ["Then Khosrow urged his black horse with a cry,", "And called his Pahlevans, his gorz held high:"]}, {"id": "B10.35.39", "lines": ["“Let arrows fall like rain upon this hold,", "As storm clouds pour their torrents fierce and cold.”"]}, {"id": "B10.35.40", "lines": ["A cloud poured down a deadly storm of hail,", "Its diamond-hard blows swept the wall and vale."]}, {"id": "B10.35.41", "lines": ["By arrows many Divs lay slain around,", "And Ahriman’s own creatures strewed the ground."]}, {"id": "B10.35.42", "lines": ["At last a radiant light began to break,", "And darkness fled as dawn began to wake."]}, {"id": "B10.35.43", "lines": ["A blessed breeze passed over field and height,", "And smiling earth and air grew clear with light."]}, {"id": "B10.35.44", "lines": ["The world shone like the moon, serene and white;", "The Divs withdrew, by Khosrow’s word, outright."]}, {"id": "B10.35.45", "lines": ["The dust sank low; the gate, no more concealed,", "Stood clear before the army, now revealed."]}, {"id": "B10.35.46", "lines": ["Then Khosrow entered through the opened gate,", "With old Gudarz beside him in his state."]}, {"id": "B10.35.47", "lines": ["Within they found a broad, fair town whose walls", "Held gardens, eyvans, meydans, palace halls."]}, {"id": "B10.35.48", "lines": ["Where light arose, the fortress crest withdrew;", "Its sharpened battlement had vanished too."]}, {"id": "B10.35.49", "lines": ["He ordered there a mighty dome to rise,", "Its summit reaching black clouds in the skies."]}, {"id": "B10.35.50", "lines": ["Ten kamands long, ten wide, its measure ran,", "With lofty arches set around its span."]}, {"id": "B10.35.51", "lines": ["Half a horse-gallop from the dome’s broad frame,", "He raised Azargashasp’s enduring flame."]}, {"id": "B10.35.52", "lines": ["The Mobadan and astrologers came,", "With sages gathered, honoring its name."]}, {"id": "B10.35.53", "lines": ["He stayed until the fire-temple shone,", "With scent and color, fully raised and known."]}, {"id": "B10.35.54", "lines": ["When one full year had passed within that ground,", "He loaded baggage; mounted troops stood round."]}, {"id": "B10.36.1", "lines": ["When news of Khosrow’s triumph reached the land,", "His godly farr and royal state were grand."]}, {"id": "B10.36.2", "lines": ["The realm stood struck with wonder at his height,", "His farr and stature blazing into sight."]}, {"id": "B10.36.3", "lines": ["The chiefs of Iran came in joyful line,", "And scattered nisar before the royal sign."]}, {"id": "B10.36.4", "lines": ["Then Fariborz approached with noble band,", "A force like mountains rising from the land."]}, {"id": "B10.36.5", "lines": ["He saw the prince and sprang down from his steed,", "While Khosrow left Shabrang with equal speed."]}, {"id": "B10.36.6", "lines": ["His uncle kissed the prince upon the face,", "And set a golden throne within that place."]}, {"id": "B10.36.7", "lines": ["On turquoise throne he placed the royal heir,", "And blessed him Shah, a jeweled crown to wear."]}, {"id": "B10.36.8", "lines": ["Then Tus approached beneath the Kaviani sign,", "With koust and golden shoes in ordered line."]}, {"id": "B10.36.9", "lines": ["He bowed to earth and laid them at his feet,", "Then spoke in words both measured and discreet:"]}, {"id": "B10.36.10", "lines": ["“Now judge who best deserves these signs of state:", "The koust, gold shoes, and standard blessed by fate."]}, {"id": "B10.36.11", "lines": ["Look through the army; judge the worthiest here,", "And choose the Pahlevan who has no peer."]}, {"id": "B10.36.12", "lines": ["For one who erred, life is a treasure still;", "To live is wealth enough beneath your will.”"]}, {"id": "B10.36.13", "lines": ["Tus begged forgiveness for the words he said,", "And cast his futile counsel from his head."]}, {"id": "B10.36.14", "lines": ["Then Khosrow laughed, and Tus he warmly greeted,", "And had him on a throne of honor seated."]}, {"id": "B10.36.15", "lines": ["“For Kaviani standard, golden shoes,", "And Pahlevani, none but you I choose."]}, {"id": "B10.36.16", "lines": ["Your farr and station fit this office true;", "No grievance in my heart remains for you."]}, {"id": "B10.36.17", "lines": ["You need not now apologize,” said he;", "“You did not wish a foreign Shah to be.”"]}, {"id": "B10.36.18", "lines": ["Then blessed Khosrow turned toward Pars, and bore", "Onward to Kavus and the royal door."]}, {"id": "B10.36.19", "lines": ["When Kay Kavus received the news with cheer,", "That blessed Khosrow on the road drew near,"]}, {"id": "B10.36.20", "lines": ["He went to meet him, cheeks like blossoms red,", "And youth through his old heart from gladness spread."]}, {"id": "B10.36.21", "lines": ["With joyful hearts they stepped down to the ground,", "And nisar, blessings, greetings went around."]}, {"id": "B10.36.22", "lines": ["Khosrow beheld Kay Kavus drawing near,", "He smiled; his heart bloomed bright with joy and cheer."]}, {"id": "B10.36.23", "lines": ["He left his steed and bowed with honor low,", "His grandfather longed to see his face glow."]}, {"id": "B10.36.24", "lines": ["Kay Kavus smiled and clasped him to his breast,", "And praised the prince with words that suited best:"]}, {"id": "B10.36.25", "lines": ["“The lion has returned from battle bright,", "His foes left dim of heart and dim of sight.”"]}, {"id": "B10.36.26", "lines": ["Then to the palace they took their way,", "To Kavus’s world-ruling throne that day."]}, {"id": "B10.37.1", "lines": ["They left their steeds, and blessings rang aloud;", "Khosrow kissed Kavus’s hand, and low he bowed."]}, {"id": "B10.37.2", "lines": ["Kavus then took the prince in his embrace,", "And led him to the monarch’s sitting-place."]}, {"id": "B10.37.3", "lines": ["He set him in the place that was his own,", "Then had the Kayan crown brought to the throne."]}, {"id": "B10.37.4", "lines": ["He kissed and crowned the prince with solemn care,", "Then left the ivory throne and took a chair."]}, {"id": "B10.37.5", "lines": ["He brought out emeralds, a nisar rare,", "And royal jewels scattered everywhere."]}, {"id": "B10.37.6", "lines": ["Again the name of Siavash he blessed,", "Whose living image Khosrow’s face expressed."]}, {"id": "B10.37.7", "lines": ["Then all the nobles gathered in the hall,", "The chiefs, sepahbods, high-born leaders all."]}, {"id": "B10.37.8", "lines": ["They hailed him Shah and scattered gems around,", "With pearls and royal jewels on the ground."]}, {"id": "B10.37.9", "lines": ["This world will take with one hand, give with one;", "Such is its way beneath the turning sun."]}, {"id": "B10.37.10", "lines": ["We climb the heights, then sink to depths below,", "And suffer through the world’s deceptive flow."]}, {"id": "B10.37.11", "lines": ["If joy can dwell within your heart, my son,", "May life endure until its course is run."]}, {"id": "B10.37.12", "lines": ["Take joy in wealth and give with open hand;", "Let grief not cloud the days at your command."]}, {"id": "B10.37.13", "lines": ["Take what you need, then give the rest away;", "Do not for foes make bitter your own day."]}, {"id": "B10.37.14", "lines": ["God gave you wealth, and to your child will give;", "Thus from the parent tree the branch shall live."]}, {"id": "B10.37.15", "lines": ["See how the earth is filled with wealth and grace,", "With every good bestowed in every place."]}, {"id": "B10.37.16", "lines": ["The Just One’s gifts can never know an end;", "Seek joy, and let no grief your spirit bend."]}]}, {"id": "B11", "title": "Kay Khosrow’s Kingship", "summary": "8 sections · 382 couplets", "path": "/poem/b11/", "couplets": [{"id": "B11.1.1", "lines": ["This much achieved, the poet will explore", "Another tale drawn out of ancient lore:"]}, {"id": "B11.1.2", "lines": ["How Khosrow took the throne and held command,", "And sent his armies toward Turan’s land."]}, {"id": "B11.1.3", "lines": ["If God grant life and strength to see it through,", "And keep my face still fresh, my spirit new,"]}, {"id": "B11.1.4", "lines": ["One further tale I leave upon the earth,", "Drawn from this famed old book of lasting worth."]}, {"id": "B11.1.5", "lines": ["As in a garden where a cypress grows,", "Its green-tipped branch above the palace shows."]}, {"id": "B11.1.6", "lines": ["The parent tree rejoices in its height,", "The wise and fortunate behold the sight."]}, {"id": "B11.1.7", "lines": ["Fortune sustains his heart and serves his needs,", "The world gains profit from his worthy deeds."]}, {"id": "B11.1.8", "lines": ["Let us examine now these matters three;", "What more beyond these three remains to see?"]}, {"id": "B11.1.9", "lines": ["High birth, brave deeds, and worth of one degree;", "In close relation all of them agree."]}, {"id": "B11.1.10", "lines": ["Achievement cannot rise where worth is none;", "Yet many high-born lack what toil has won."]}, {"id": "B11.1.11", "lines": ["Through Yazdan’s farr is native worth made clear,", "It reaches not for evil, nor gives ear."]}, {"id": "B11.1.12", "lines": ["Lineage springs from pure paternal seed;", "From stainless stock it rightly should proceed."]}, {"id": "B11.1.13", "lines": ["Achievement comes through labor, earned with strain,", "You learn from all and struggle through the pain."]}, {"id": "B11.1.14", "lines": ["Native worth gives substance to the three,", "By the Creator’s robe made fair to see."]}, {"id": "B11.1.15", "lines": ["When these three meet, then wisdom must arise,", "To know the good from evil through clear eyes."]}, {"id": "B11.1.16", "lines": ["When all four virtues join, the heart finds peace,", "From pain and toil and grief he finds release."]}, {"id": "B11.1.17", "lines": ["Though none escapes when death revokes life’s lease,", "No sharper bane; no cure can make it cease."]}, {"id": "B11.1.18", "lines": ["A Pahlevan from Iran bore such grace,", "While fortune from above secured his place."]}, {"id": "B11.2.1", "lines": ["When Khosrow rose as Shah of high renown,", "His fame spread through the world from town to town."]}, {"id": "B11.2.2", "lines": ["He took the Shahanshah throne in rightful place,", "And wore the royal crown with kingly grace."]}, {"id": "B11.2.3", "lines": ["He spread his justice, set the balance right,", "And tore oppression’s root from earth outright."]}, {"id": "B11.2.4", "lines": ["The crown-bearing Kayanian nobles came,", "The freeborn chiefs renowned in rank and fame."]}, {"id": "B11.2.5", "lines": ["Then nobles, kings, and lords of honored name", "Came forth to bow and hail his rightful claim."]}, {"id": "B11.2.6", "lines": ["From every distant region, far and wide,", "No head remained that would not bend its pride."]}, {"id": "B11.2.7", "lines": ["He raised each ruined place from its decay,", "And freed sad hearts that were to sorrow prey."]}, {"id": "B11.2.8", "lines": ["The spring rains fell and washed the wounded plain,", "And washed grief’s rust from earth, erased its stain."]}, {"id": "B11.2.9", "lines": ["The land was clothed in splendor, fresh and fair,", "Through justice, bounty, wealth was everywhere."]}, {"id": "B11.2.10", "lines": ["The world was filled with happiness and peace,", "And Ahriman’s dark workings had to cease."]}, {"id": "B11.2.11", "lines": ["To every great one messengers were sent,", "To every famed Pahlevan they went."]}, {"id": "B11.2.12", "lines": ["When word reached Nimruz and its lord renowned,", "The earth’s own light whose fame spread far around:"]}, {"id": "B11.2.13", "lines": ["“The blessed Kay now sits upon the throne,", "And treads the sphere of greatness as his own,”"]}, {"id": "B11.2.14", "lines": ["Then Rostam summoned forces to his side,", "To pay the Shah their homage far and wide."]}, {"id": "B11.2.15", "lines": ["In state they journeyed, glad in heart and mind,", "With Zal, the son of Sahm, of noble kind."]}, {"id": "B11.2.16", "lines": ["And all the chiefs of Kabul crossed the plain,", "Till earth grew black as ebony in their train."]}, {"id": "B11.2.17", "lines": ["The koust resounded vast from part to part,", "Its thunder seemed to tear the hearer’s heart."]}, {"id": "B11.2.18", "lines": ["Zal led the way with warriors in array,", "And Rostam’s violet standard streamed that day."]}, {"id": "B11.2.19", "lines": ["Then news reached Khosrow: “Rostam comes in sight,", "The loyal hero comes with heart upright.”"]}, {"id": "B11.2.20", "lines": ["The whole realm rose to greet him with good cheer,", "And made its welcome ready as he drew near."]}, {"id": "B11.2.21", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced and blessed the herald then:", "“May you prosper and flourish among men."]}, {"id": "B11.2.22", "lines": ["For Rostam reared my father in his youth,", "His honar shines before the world in truth.”"]}, {"id": "B11.2.23", "lines": ["He sent out Giv and Gudarz, Tus, to ride,", "As ney-e sarghin joined the koust’s tide."]}, {"id": "B11.2.24", "lines": ["The tabira sounded at the palace gate,", "And champions set their helmets firm and straight."]}, {"id": "B11.2.25", "lines": ["Pahlevan after Pahlevan rode to greet,", "With standards raised and tabira’s martial beat."]}, {"id": "B11.2.26", "lines": ["Two days they rode to greet the hero bold,", "With many chiefs and troops in ranks unrolled."]}, {"id": "B11.2.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam’s standard blazed before their sight,", "As dust rose to the sun and dimmed its light."]}, {"id": "B11.2.28", "lines": ["The buq cried out together with the koust,", "At center rode brave Giv, Gudarz, and Tus."]}, {"id": "B11.2.29", "lines": ["They rode before the elephant-bodied chief,", "And blessed him joyfully, their hearts’ relief."]}, {"id": "B11.2.30", "lines": ["The three embraced him, drawing Rostam near,", "And Rostam asked: “How fares the Shah held dear?”"]}, {"id": "B11.2.31", "lines": ["From Rostam then they turned with eager pace", "To Zal, and met him with delighted face."]}, {"id": "B11.2.32", "lines": ["Then Faramarz they greeted with delight,", "Then rode to see the Shah’s crown shining bright."]}, {"id": "B11.2.33", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw the hero drawing near,", "His eyes grew wet as memory stirred a tear."]}, {"id": "B11.2.34", "lines": ["He rose from off the throne and stepped below,", "And blessed the chief whom all the world would know."]}, {"id": "B11.2.35", "lines": ["The warrior kissed the earth with reverent care,", "Then Khosrow spoke, his blessing to declare:"]}, {"id": "B11.2.36", "lines": ["“Live ever blessed, O chief of noble fame,", "Bright be your soul, enduring be your name."]}, {"id": "B11.2.37", "lines": ["Wise and restrained in word and heart are you,", "Who fostered Siavash, steadfast and true.”"]}, {"id": "B11.2.38", "lines": ["He clasped Zal’s head against his royal breast,", "And grief for Siavash rose, no more suppressed."]}, {"id": "B11.2.39", "lines": ["Then Khosrow seated both and drew them near,", "And spoke Yazdan’s great name for all to hear."]}, {"id": "B11.2.40", "lines": ["When Rostam marked the Shah from head to toe,", "His bearing, speech, and judgment all aglow,"]}, {"id": "B11.2.41", "lines": ["His heart filled up with blood; his color turned,", "As thoughts of Siavash within him burned."]}, {"id": "B11.2.42", "lines": ["He said: “O king, your father’s honored name", "Lives on through you, a world-enduring flame."]}, {"id": "B11.2.43", "lines": ["No crowned king have I seen in any place,", "With such a farr, your father’s very face.”"]}, {"id": "B11.2.44", "lines": ["Then from the throne they rose; the feast was laid,", "And wine was poured; the banquet stood arrayed."]}, {"id": "B11.2.45", "lines": ["Till midnight Khosrow would not turn to sleep,", "But told the past, whose memories ran deep."]}, {"id": "B11.3.1", "lines": ["When Sol drew forth its scimitar of light,", "The darkness fled and vanished from the sight."]}, {"id": "B11.3.2", "lines": ["From palace rose the ney’s resounding call,", "The nobles turned toward the Shah’s great hall."]}, {"id": "B11.3.3", "lines": ["Then Tus and Gudarz came with Giv the bold,", "With Gorgin, Gostaham, Bahram, tried of old,"]}, {"id": "B11.3.4", "lines": ["With Rohham, Bijan, Ashkash known to fame,", "Kavus’s Fariborz and Zangeh came."]}, {"id": "B11.3.5", "lines": ["The king rode out to hunt with chosen men,", "With Rostam foremost, chief of heroes then."]}, {"id": "B11.3.6", "lines": ["The army dimmed the sun and moon on high,", "With jowshan, swords, and helmets crowding sky."]}, {"id": "B11.3.7", "lines": ["The hunted game lay scattered on the road,", "As though a battlefield its carnage showed."]}, {"id": "B11.3.8", "lines": ["The king advanced through all Iran, aware", "Of thriving lands and ruins lying bare."]}, {"id": "B11.3.9", "lines": ["Where injustice had laid the cities low,", "He raised them up and made their fortunes grow."]}, {"id": "B11.3.10", "lines": ["He filled deserted towns with life restored,", "With dirhams freely drawn from royal hoard."]}, {"id": "B11.3.11", "lines": ["He never wearied of justice and largesse,", "And through his giving eased the realm’s distress."]}, {"id": "B11.3.12", "lines": ["In every town he paused and set his throne,", "And made his royal justice widely known."]}, {"id": "B11.3.13", "lines": ["With purses from his treasury in array,", "He scattered dinars as he made his way."]}, {"id": "B11.3.14", "lines": ["With wine and throne and crown he rode ahead,", "From city on to city swiftly sped."]}, {"id": "B11.3.15", "lines": ["With nobles, freeborn chiefs in all their strength,", "He reached Azar Abadagan at length."]}, {"id": "B11.3.16", "lines": ["At times he drank; at times he swiftly rode,", "And reached Azargashasp, the fire’s abode."]}, {"id": "B11.3.17", "lines": ["Within the fire temple Khosrow prayed,", "And to the World-Creator homage paid."]}, {"id": "B11.3.18", "lines": ["He left that place and rode toward Kavus’s throne,", "Before him then the elder Shah’s court shone."]}, {"id": "B11.3.19", "lines": ["With Kavus he sat down in joy and peace,", "And every care between them found release."]}, {"id": "B11.3.20", "lines": ["When wine had done its work within his breast,", "Then swiftly came the hour of sleep and rest."]}, {"id": "B11.4.1", "lines": ["When radiant Sol spread light across the plain,", "And ruby splendor marked the daylight’s reign,"]}, {"id": "B11.4.2", "lines": ["Kavus sat with Kay Khosrow at his side,", "Two lofty kings, by fortune dignified."]}, {"id": "B11.4.3", "lines": ["With Zal and Rostam, champions true and tried,", "The four sat gathered, kingdom’s strength and pride."]}, {"id": "B11.4.4", "lines": ["The Shah spoke first of matters high and low,", "Then turned to Afrasiab, root of woe."]}, {"id": "B11.4.5", "lines": ["His cheeks were wet beneath grief’s ceaseless flood,", "The tears from both his eyes seemed mixed with blood."]}, {"id": "B11.4.6", "lines": ["He spoke of Siavash, condemned to death,", "And how that tyrant robbed the land of breath,"]}, {"id": "B11.4.7", "lines": ["How Iran’s dust was cast upon the sky,", "And many chiefs had met their end thereby,"]}, {"id": "B11.4.8", "lines": ["How women, children suffered loss and pain,", "And cities lay abandoned on the plain."]}, {"id": "B11.4.9", "lines": ["“You see,” he said, “these lands brought low and torn,", "These cities emptied, desolate, and worn."]}, {"id": "B11.4.10", "lines": ["Since every gift that Yazdan grants is yours;", "Strength, wisdom, stature, farr; your fortune soars."]}, {"id": "B11.4.11", "lines": ["And since in worth you stand above all kings,", "Swear now that justice guides you in all things:"]}, {"id": "B11.4.12", "lines": ["Let vengeance fill your heart against that foe,", "And never let that fire cease to glow."]}, {"id": "B11.4.13", "lines": ["Regard no mother’s kinship on his side,", "Nor heed the counsel others may provide."]}, {"id": "B11.4.14", "lines": ["Be not enticed by treasure or by gain,", "Though fortune rise or fall, hold fast your rein."]}, {"id": "B11.4.15", "lines": ["Let crown nor throne nor royal signet stir,", "Nor Afrasiab’s words, your heart to err."]}, {"id": "B11.4.16", "lines": ["Now hear the bond that seals this oath you make,", "And binds your soul in vows you must not break:"]}, {"id": "B11.4.17", "lines": ["Swear by the Maker of the moon and sun,", "By sword and seal, by throne and crown, each one;"]}, {"id": "B11.4.18", "lines": ["By Yazdan’s farr, by fortune’s blessed sign,", "Toward evil never let your path incline;"]}, {"id": "B11.4.19", "lines": ["Seek no mediator; let the weapons speak;", "Let sword and gorz decide the right we seek."]}, {"id": "B11.4.20", "lines": ["Though high your stature, lofty in men’s eyes,", "Keep humble your disposition as you rise.”"]}, {"id": "B11.4.21", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard these words, both grave and clear,", "He faced the sacred flame in holy fear."]}, {"id": "B11.4.22", "lines": ["And swore: “By God, the ruler over all,", "By day’s bright face and lapis night’s dark pall,"]}, {"id": "B11.4.23", "lines": ["By sun and moon, by throne and crown I swear,", "These royal signs attest the vow I bear;"]}, {"id": "B11.4.24", "lines": ["By royal seal and sword, by diadem,", "My oath is bound and witnessed here through them."]}, {"id": "B11.4.25", "lines": ["No love for Afrasiab shall I embrace,", "Nor even in a dream behold his face.”"]}, {"id": "B11.4.26", "lines": ["In Pahlavi they wrote the oath by hand,", "With musk-water in the royal record grand."]}, {"id": "B11.4.27", "lines": ["Then Zal and Rostam witnessed it that day,", "And all the chiefs bore witness in array."]}, {"id": "B11.4.28", "lines": ["The written oath, as zanhar, signed and sealed,", "Was placed with Rostam, who would be its shield."]}, {"id": "B11.4.29", "lines": ["When this was done, they called for wine and feast,", "And every kind of revelry increased."]}, {"id": "B11.4.30", "lines": ["A week they passed with rud and cups of wine,", "Within Kavus’s eyvan, rich and fine."]}, {"id": "B11.4.31", "lines": ["Upon the eighth day, Khosrow, to prepare,", "Washed head and body, then went forth to prayer."]}, {"id": "B11.4.32", "lines": ["Before Yazdan who turns the sphere on high,", "He laid his face to earth beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B11.4.33", "lines": ["From blackest night until the sun arose,", "He wept without relief from grief and woes."]}, {"id": "B11.4.34", "lines": ["“O Judge of all, O God whose power I praise,", "World-Ruler, giver, guide through all my days,"]}, {"id": "B11.4.35", "lines": ["When I was young, without an army’s aid,", "From dragon’s maw my helpless life you stayed."]}, {"id": "B11.4.36", "lines": ["Afrasiab knows no shame; cursed the ground,", "Where guiltless hearts by vengeance all are bound."]}, {"id": "B11.4.37", "lines": ["He struck my father down and spilled his blood,", "And left our hearts adrift in grief’s dark flood."]}, {"id": "B11.4.38", "lines": ["He cast his fire across these noble lands,", "And rained destruction down with ruthless hands."]}, {"id": "B11.4.39", "lines": ["The hearts of kings are filled with fear of him,", "His crown and throne bring ruin dark and grim."]}, {"id": "B11.4.40", "lines": ["His gohar is corrupt, his lineage base,", "A sorcerer whose evil stains his race."]}, {"id": "B11.4.41", "lines": ["Take now my hand in vengeance for my sire,", "And grant old Kavus mercy I desire.”"]}, {"id": "B11.4.42", "lines": ["He pressed his cheek upon the earth in grief,", "And praised Yazdan who grants the soul relief."]}, {"id": "B11.4.43", "lines": ["Then slowly rising, he resumed the throne,", "And spoke before the chiefs who were his own:"]}, {"id": "B11.4.44", "lines": ["“My famed champions, conquerors tried and true,", "My khanjar-bearing chiefs, I speak to you."]}, {"id": "B11.4.45", "lines": ["I rode through Iran’s lands from bound to bound,", "To Khan-e Azargashasp the road I found."]}, {"id": "B11.4.46", "lines": ["Though rich it was, though prosperous the place,", "I saw no joy upon a single face."]}, {"id": "B11.4.47", "lines": ["All suffer from Afrasiab’s cruel reign;", "Their hearts hold blood, their eyes shed tears of pain."]}, {"id": "B11.4.48", "lines": ["No heart is more than mine by sorrow torn;", "My soul and body bear the wounds I mourn."]}, {"id": "B11.4.49", "lines": ["My grandfather too found no calm relief,", "And from his heart drew cold winds born of grief."]}, {"id": "B11.4.50", "lines": ["Its men and women cry through war and raid,", "Through killing, plunder, every havoc made."]}, {"id": "B11.4.51", "lines": ["If you are loyal, steadfast, and sincere,", "Then stand with me, and make your purpose clear."]}, {"id": "B11.4.52", "lines": ["I will prepare to avenge my father’s wrong,", "And cleanse the land that has endured so long."]}, {"id": "B11.4.53", "lines": ["If you will strive as leopards in the field,", "Then I shall stand, and never shall I yield."]}, {"id": "B11.4.54", "lines": ["From heroes’ battle, mountains turn to plain,", "And blood shed in revenge becomes his stain."]}, {"id": "B11.4.55", "lines": ["If any fall, high Paradise shall wait,", "A dwelling raised beyond the mortal state."]}, {"id": "B11.4.56", "lines": ["Now speak your minds and tell me what you know,", "He first did wrong; requital must not slow.”"]}, {"id": "B11.4.57", "lines": ["The chiefs arose, their hearts with anguish stirred,", "And answered him together, word for word:"]}, {"id": "B11.4.58", "lines": ["“O Shah, be glad, and cast away all fear;", "May pain and grief forever disappear."]}, {"id": "B11.4.59", "lines": ["Our bodies and our souls belong to you,", "Our grief and joy, the little and great, too."]}, {"id": "B11.4.60", "lines": ["We all are born to die; that law is known,", "Though freeborn, we are servants of your throne.”"]}, {"id": "B11.4.61", "lines": ["When Tus, Gudarz, and mighty Rostam spoke,", "His cheek like redbud bloomed; his joy awoke."]}, {"id": "B11.4.62", "lines": ["Young was his fortune; Khosrow too was young,", "He blessed the chiefs with praise upon his tongue."]}, {"id": "B11.4.63", "lines": ["May brave men fill the earth in every place;", "May champions make it flourish through their grace."]}, {"id": "B11.5.1", "lines": ["Thus matters stood until the circling sky", "Brought Sol in Virgo shining bright on high."]}, {"id": "B11.5.2", "lines": ["Then Khosrow summoned Mobadan of the land,", "And spoke to them with calm and firm command."]}, {"id": "B11.5.3", "lines": ["For two full weeks he closed the audience hall,", "Then ordered a new register for all."]}, {"id": "B11.5.4", "lines": ["He told the dastur, rozi-dehan: “Write", "The name of every rank in ordered rite.”"]}, {"id": "B11.5.5", "lines": ["In solemn form they entered every name,", "As fitting for the chiefs renowned in fame."]}, {"id": "B11.5.6", "lines": ["First came the kin of Kavus, royal race,", "One hundred ten, all marked by birth and grace."]}, {"id": "B11.5.7", "lines": ["At their head stood Fariborz, brave and bold,", "Close to the new Shah, honored in his fold."]}, {"id": "B11.5.8", "lines": ["Then eighty scions sprang from Nohzar’s line,", "And bore bright gorz, each splendid in design."]}, {"id": "B11.5.9", "lines": ["Zarasp their sepahbod stood at their head,", "Appointed as their guardian when he led."]}, {"id": "B11.5.10", "lines": ["The son of Tus, the crown of Kayan fame,", "With sword and gopal, koust proclaimed his name."]}, {"id": "B11.5.11", "lines": ["He raised the Kaviani standard bright,", "And made the Kayan throne and fortune light."]}, {"id": "B11.5.12", "lines": ["Then Gudarz, son of Keshvad, came to stand,", "Whose counsel brought good order to the land."]}, {"id": "B11.5.13", "lines": ["His sons and grandsons, seventy-eight in train,", "Were mountain warriors, riders of the plain."]}, {"id": "B11.5.14", "lines": ["From Gazhdaham came sixty-three, who found", "In Gostaham a leader far renowned."]}, {"id": "B11.5.15", "lines": ["A hundred horsemen came from Milad’s race,", "Victorious Gorgin rode before their pace."]}, {"id": "B11.5.16", "lines": ["Tavaba’s house sent eighty-five to ride,", "Brave guardians of the royal wealth and pride."]}, {"id": "B11.5.17", "lines": ["And Borteh led them boldly in the field,", "Their strong support, their guard and battle-shield."]}, {"id": "B11.5.18", "lines": ["Then came the sons of Pashang, thirty-three,", "Bold riders famed for daring, sworn and free."]}, {"id": "B11.5.19", "lines": ["Rivniz, their chief, before the koust would ride,", "And stood as Tus’s son-in-law allied."]}, {"id": "B11.5.20", "lines": ["The kin of Barzin numbered seventy men,", "Fierce lions in the shock of battle then."]}, {"id": "B11.5.21", "lines": ["Farhad commanded them, an anvil of steel,", "Whose strength could make the fiercest foeman reel."]}, {"id": "B11.5.22", "lines": ["Guraza led his own assembled line,", "One hundred five, their armor made to shine."]}, {"id": "B11.5.23", "lines": ["With Kanarang stood countless nobles near,", "Great Pahlevans whose burz and farr shone clear."]}, {"id": "B11.5.24", "lines": ["So vast their number, none could tell them all,", "The Mobad could not count them in the hall."]}, {"id": "B11.5.25", "lines": ["Their names were entered on the royal roll,", "Till need should call each worthy fighting soul."]}, {"id": "B11.5.26", "lines": ["The Shah then ordered all to leave the town,", "And toward the hāmun lead the army down:"]}, {"id": "B11.5.27", "lines": ["He said, “When this new month begins its round,", "Let karnay and the Indian daray sound."]}, {"id": "B11.5.28", "lines": ["Then all shall turn toward Turan to fight,", "And set aside all feasting and delight.”"]}, {"id": "B11.5.29", "lines": ["The courtiers bowed before him in a ring,", "And bent their heads to earth and blessed the king:"]}, {"id": "B11.5.30", "lines": ["“O Shah, your farr makes crown and girdle bright;", "We serve from Aries down to Pisces’ light.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.1", "lines": ["Wherever wild steeds wandered through the plain,", "Their keepers drove them toward the marching train."]}, {"id": "B11.6.2", "lines": ["The Shah commanded: “Call kamand-afgans near,", "Those proven warriors every foe must fear."]}, {"id": "B11.6.3", "lines": ["Cast kamands on these chargers fleet and strong,", "And bring them safely to the royal throng.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.4", "lines": ["He opened wide the treasury of gold,", "And thus addressed the warriors brave and bold:"]}, {"id": "B11.6.5", "lines": ["“The treasures of great kings should not lie stored,", "Concealed from those who guard the realm by sword."]}, {"id": "B11.6.6", "lines": ["In days of war, when vengeance must be won,", "Brave men and royal treasure work as one."]}, {"id": "B11.6.7", "lines": ["Through valiant men are treasure, thrones attained,", "As fruit through sunlight from the tree is gained."]}, {"id": "B11.6.8", "lines": ["Why grieve for treasure through the passing day?", "For wealth exists for men to give away.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.9", "lines": ["A hundred robes of fine Roman brocade,", "With jewels upon golden fabric laid,"]}, {"id": "B11.6.10", "lines": ["With khazz and woven cloth of costly art,", "And one gem-laden royal cup apart."]}, {"id": "B11.6.11", "lines": ["He set them forth, and to the court spoke straight:", "“For Palashan’s head these treasures wait."]}, {"id": "B11.6.12", "lines": ["Afrasiab praised his Pahlevan in might,", "And slept secure while Palashan watched by night."]}, {"id": "B11.6.13", "lines": ["What warrior in the field of blood and flame", "Will cast that dragon down in dust and shame,"]}, {"id": "B11.6.14", "lines": ["And bring his head, his sword, his charger near,", "Before our camp when battle’s day is here?”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.15", "lines": ["Then Bijan, son of Giv, sprang to his feet,", "And swore that savage enemy to meet."]}, {"id": "B11.6.16", "lines": ["He seized the robes, the goblet, and the prize,", "And blessed Khosrow, both glorious and wise:"]}, {"id": "B11.6.17", "lines": ["“May this crowned head rule long in strength and fame,", "And may your joy endure while Time bears name.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.18", "lines": ["Then he returned and took his former seat,", "The jeweled goblet held, his prize complete."]}, {"id": "B11.6.19", "lines": ["Again the Shah called treasures from his store:", "Two hundred gold-embroidered robes and more,"]}, {"id": "B11.6.20", "lines": ["A hundred robes of khazz were richly wrought,", "A hundred parniyan beside were brought."]}, {"id": "B11.6.21", "lines": ["Two rosy slaves, in cloth of gold, were graced", "With jeweled girdles fastened round each waist."]}, {"id": "B11.6.22", "lines": ["The monarch said: “These gifts belong to one", "Who brings me Tazhav’s crown, the deed well done."]}, {"id": "B11.6.23", "lines": ["The crown Afrasiab placed upon his head,", "And called him noble son-in-law,” he said."]}, {"id": "B11.6.24", "lines": ["Again brave Bijan rose before them all,", "A champion no enemy could appall."]}, {"id": "B11.6.25", "lines": ["He seized the treasures and the slaves, his prize,", "Before the gathered nobles’ watching eyes."]}, {"id": "B11.6.26", "lines": ["“May earth beneath Khosrow forever bloom!”", "He cried, then sat again within the room."]}, {"id": "B11.6.27", "lines": ["The Shah then ordered further gifts be shown:", "Ten slave-boys brought before the royal throne,"]}, {"id": "B11.6.28", "lines": ["Ten steeds of rapid pace with golden reins,", "Ten veiled young maidens decked in jeweled chains."]}, {"id": "B11.6.29", "lines": ["The ruler said: “These gifts belong to one", "Who fears not Tazhav when the fight is begun."]}, {"id": "B11.6.30", "lines": ["He has an attendant with him in the fight,", "Whose voice can tame the leopard’s heart outright."]}, {"id": "B11.6.31", "lines": ["Her name is Espanoye, moon-faced and bright,", "A cypress formed in grace and pure delight."]}, {"id": "B11.6.32", "lines": ["Her waist a reed, her stride a pheasant’s glide,", "Her musk-sweet beauty fit for royal pride."]}, {"id": "B11.6.33", "lines": ["Her body jasmine-bright, her face was spring,", "And musk around her like a cloud would cling."]}, {"id": "B11.6.34", "lines": ["Whoever takes her must not use the blade,", "But bring her living safely from the raid."]}, {"id": "B11.6.35", "lines": ["His kamand must close gently round her waist,", "And bear her from the battlefield in haste.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.36", "lines": ["Then Bijan struck his breast before the throne,", "And claimed the task before him as his own."]}, {"id": "B11.6.37", "lines": ["He praised the Shah and blessed the Maker high,", "While all the court looked on with gladdened eye."]}, {"id": "B11.6.38", "lines": ["The king rejoiced and said: “Renowned in fight,", "May no foe gain a champion of your might."]}, {"id": "B11.6.39", "lines": ["May soul and body never part from you,", "O peerless champion, steadfast, brave, and true.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.40", "lines": ["Again the Shah commanded: “Do your part:", "Bring ten gold goblets set with jeweled art;"]}, {"id": "B11.6.41", "lines": ["Ten silver cups with precious stones aglow,", "With fragrant shamameh in gold to show;"]}, {"id": "B11.6.42", "lines": ["A yellow-ruby vessel, musk within,", "With turquoise, lapis ranged in splendor thin;"]}, {"id": "B11.6.43", "lines": ["With emerald and carnelian agleam,", "And cups of rosewater, a fragrant stream;"]}, {"id": "B11.6.44", "lines": ["Ten noble steeds with golden bridles fair,", "And ten young slaves with jeweled belts to wear."]}, {"id": "B11.6.45", "lines": ["These gifts are for the man whose arm in fight", "Can bring fierce Tazhav down beneath his might."]}, {"id": "B11.6.46", "lines": ["But only when his severed head is laid", "Before my throne shall all this prize be paid.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.47", "lines": ["Then Giv, the son of Gudarz, struck his breast,", "And swore to meet that champion in the test."]}, {"id": "B11.6.48", "lines": ["Before the chief they set the treasure down;", "He blessed the Shah who wore the royal crown:"]}, {"id": "B11.6.49", "lines": ["“May crown and signet never leave your hand,", "Nor fortune cease to guard your wide command.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.50", "lines": ["Again the Shah commanded ten trays of gold,", "With dinars, musk, and jewels from the hold."]}, {"id": "B11.6.51", "lines": ["Two hundred robes of khazz and diba bright,", "Were laid before the Shah in ordered sight."]}, {"id": "B11.6.52", "lines": ["Ten fair attendants, crowned and girdled, stood,", "Beside a jeweled crown of workmanship good."]}, {"id": "B11.6.53", "lines": ["“These gifts belong to one who does not tire", "For name and treasure, though the toil be dire."]}, {"id": "B11.6.54", "lines": ["Let him ride forth now to the Kasa stream,", "And bless Siavash’s soul with words supreme."]}, {"id": "B11.6.55", "lines": ["A timber mound, past ten kamands, stands high,", "Its stacked wood rising toward the open sky."]}, {"id": "B11.6.56", "lines": ["Afrasiab raised it there to block the way,", "So none from Iran toward Turan could stray."]}, {"id": "B11.6.57", "lines": ["Some bold man must destroy it with a brand,", "So war finds no obstruction in the land."]}, {"id": "B11.6.58", "lines": ["When future battle and its clash draw near,", "Our army then shall find the passage clear.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.59", "lines": ["Again brave Giv declared: “That task I claim;", "I shall consume the timber mound in flame."]}, {"id": "B11.6.60", "lines": ["I fear no battle, though the foemen rise,", "But call the circling vultures from the skies.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.61", "lines": ["The Shah bestowed those treasures on him too,", "And praised the famed sepahbod, brave and true."]}, {"id": "B11.6.62", "lines": ["“May never crown be parted from your blade;", "Prosper in joy, and never be afraid.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.63", "lines": ["Then lastly Khosrow asked what man would ride", "To Afrasiab and face him in his pride,"]}, {"id": "B11.6.64", "lines": ["A hundred diba robes in bright array,", "Of many colors, Khosrow set that day;"]}, {"id": "B11.6.65", "lines": ["A hundred lustrous pearls were heaped beside,", "Like frozen drops of water, clear and wide;"]}, {"id": "B11.6.66", "lines": ["Five young attendants stood with crowns of gold,", "Their hidden curls beneath the circlets rolled."]}, {"id": "B11.6.67", "lines": ["The prize was for a man whose soul was wise,", "Where sovereign wisdom held its rule and rise;"]}, {"id": "B11.6.68", "lines": ["A brave discerning man, of fluent tongue,", "Who faced the lion when the fight was sprung;"]}, {"id": "B11.6.69", "lines": ["Who bore the Shah’s words to Afrasiab’s ear,", "And faced him there without a trace of fear;"]}, {"id": "B11.6.70", "lines": ["And brought his answer back before the throne.", "Gorgin, Milad’s son, claimed it as his own."]}, {"id": "B11.6.71", "lines": ["The Shah bestowed the promised gifts and gold,", "The robes and pearls and servants from his hold."]}, {"id": "B11.6.72", "lines": ["He blessed the Shah: “May wisdom guard your soul,", "And dwell beside it while the heavens roll.”"]}, {"id": "B11.6.73", "lines": ["When earth grew black as raven’s dusky plume,", "And night’s bright lamp rose over hill and gloom,"]}, {"id": "B11.6.74", "lines": ["The Shah withdrew; night settled over all,", "Each chief went home beyond the palace wall."]}, {"id": "B11.7.1", "lines": ["When dawn made all the mountain ridges glow,", "And cockcrow rose where early breezes blow,"]}, {"id": "B11.7.2", "lines": ["Great Rostam came before the royal throne,", "With Faramarz and Zavareh, well known."]}, {"id": "B11.7.3", "lines": ["They spoke of Iran, crown and royal state,", "And weighed each matter in their long debate."]}, {"id": "B11.7.4", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “O Shah of lofty fame,", "Great ruler crowned in everlasting flame,"]}, {"id": "B11.7.5", "lines": ["There lies a province in Zabul’s domain,", "Once held by Tur before Manuchehr’s reign."]}, {"id": "B11.7.6", "lines": ["Till Manuchehr drove Turan from its land,", "The noble province flourished in his hand."]}, {"id": "B11.7.7", "lines": ["When Kavus aged and royal farr grew dim,", "The light of kingship slowly left with him."]}, {"id": "B11.7.8", "lines": ["Turanians seized the city; Iran withdrew,", "And now to Turan goes its tribute due."]}, {"id": "B11.7.9", "lines": ["There elephants and treasure now abound,", "While guiltless people suffer, terror-bound."]}, {"id": "B11.7.10", "lines": ["Its peaceful folk endure the raider’s blade,", "Through pillage, slaughter, terror, all dismayed."]}, {"id": "B11.7.11", "lines": ["Now Iran’s kingship rests within your right,", "With elephant frame and lions’ claws of might."]}, {"id": "B11.7.12", "lines": ["Best send a champion, one who will dare,", "With mighty troops, to break the Turkish snare."]}, {"id": "B11.7.13", "lines": ["Let him compel that province to restore", "Its tribute; or a head before your door."]}, {"id": "B11.7.14", "lines": ["When all that borderland is held secure,", "Then Turan’s coming overthrow is sure.”"]}, {"id": "B11.7.15", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Live long, for you speak true.", "Your counsel marks the road that we pursue."]}, {"id": "B11.7.16", "lines": ["Determine what great force the task demands,", "And choose the men yourself from these renowned bands."]}, {"id": "B11.7.17", "lines": ["That frontier lies beside the lands you guide;", "Its worth is fitting to your strength and pride."]}, {"id": "B11.7.18", "lines": ["Now give Faramarz warriors proved in war,", "A mighty force drawn from your finest corps."]}, {"id": "B11.7.19", "lines": ["Through Faramarz the venture shall succeed,", "His hook can reach the nahang’s jaws at need.”"]}, {"id": "B11.7.20", "lines": ["Then Rostam blessed the Shah with joyful grace,", "His joy shone brightly on his lifted face."]}, {"id": "B11.7.21", "lines": ["Then Khosrow bade the salar-e-bar prepare,", "And call the cooks to spread the royal fare."]}, {"id": "B11.7.22", "lines": ["Wine came; the rameshgaran gathered near,", "Their nightingale-like songs entranced each ear."]}, {"id": "B11.8.1", "lines": ["When bright Sol rose above the mountain height,", "And minstrels ceased their songs at dawn’s first light,"]}, {"id": "B11.8.2", "lines": ["The tabira rang out at palace gate,", "And there the troops were called to congregate."]}, {"id": "B11.8.3", "lines": ["Tabiras bound on elephants in rows,", "While karnays shook the air where morning rose."]}, {"id": "B11.8.4", "lines": ["Upon one elephant they raised a throne,", "And so the royal Tree in splendor shone."]}, {"id": "B11.8.5", "lines": ["The Shah came forth and took his seat on high,", "His jeweled crown resplendent to the eye."]}, {"id": "B11.8.6", "lines": ["A torque of gems lay shining on his breast,", "His ox-head gorz in kingly hand at rest."]}, {"id": "B11.8.7", "lines": ["From either ear rich pearl and jewel swung,", "While gold and gems upon his bracelets hung."]}, {"id": "B11.8.8", "lines": ["His belt was pearl and emerald, worked with gold,", "A sight for all assembled to behold."]}, {"id": "B11.8.9", "lines": ["His elephant, with bells and golden rein,", "Advanced into the center of the plain."]}, {"id": "B11.8.10", "lines": ["He struck the mohreh in the royal cup,", "To Saturn then the army’s roar rose up."]}, {"id": "B11.8.11", "lines": ["With sword and gorz and koust the earth grew black,", "As dust rose thick above the army’s track."]}, {"id": "B11.8.12", "lines": ["The sun seemed caught within a net on high,", "As though the vault of heaven bent from the sky."]}, {"id": "B11.8.13", "lines": ["No clearest eye could see a horseman’s rein,", "Nor stars discern the spearpoints on the plain."]}, {"id": "B11.8.14", "lines": ["It seemed the billows of the sea had grown,", "As troop by troop the moving line was shown."]}, {"id": "B11.8.15", "lines": ["They brought the camp-enclosure to the field,", "While shouts rose high and made the heavens yield."]}, {"id": "B11.8.16", "lines": ["Such was the custom of the royal day:", "He struck the mohreh, girded for array."]}, {"id": "B11.8.17", "lines": ["No man throughout the kingdom had a place", "Except before the gate of royal grace."]}, {"id": "B11.8.18", "lines": ["This was the token of the sovereign’s reign,", "The royal sign his kingship would maintain."]}, {"id": "B11.8.19", "lines": ["The Shah kept to his elephant’s high seat,", "And watched the ordered ranks march past his feet."]}, {"id": "B11.8.20", "lines": ["First Fariborz came marching, trim and neat,", "With gorz and crown and golden shoes complete."]}, {"id": "B11.8.21", "lines": ["Behind him rose his sun-emblazoned sign,", "As on his chestnut steed he held the line."]}, {"id": "B11.8.22", "lines": ["His coiled kamand was fastened at his side,", "With fast speed, with burz and farr, he would ride."]}, {"id": "B11.8.23", "lines": ["His men were clothed in silver, gems, and gold,", "In trappings rich and splendid to behold."]}, {"id": "B11.8.24", "lines": ["The Shah then blessed him: “May heroic grace", "And greatness ever hold your honored place."]}, {"id": "B11.8.25", "lines": ["May fortune crown the labors you devise,", "And New Year’s radiance in your spirit rise."]}, {"id": "B11.8.26", "lines": ["May health attend you when you ride away,", "And no infirmity return that day.”"]}, {"id": "B11.8.27", "lines": ["Behind him came Gudarz of Keshvad’s line,", "Whose counsel made the world with order shine."]}, {"id": "B11.8.28", "lines": ["A lion gripping gorz and sword in fight", "Was blazoned on his banner, fierce and bright."]}, {"id": "B11.8.29", "lines": ["Upon his left marched Rohham, sword in sight,", "And noble Giv advanced upon his right."]}, {"id": "B11.8.30", "lines": ["Shidush behind him bore the lion sign,", "Whose violet brightness crossed the dusty line."]}, {"id": "B11.8.31", "lines": ["Behind them marched a thousand, lances high,", "Long spears advanced beneath the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "B11.8.32", "lines": ["Behind brave Giv his sable banner came,", "A wolf displayed upon its folds of flame."]}, {"id": "B11.8.33", "lines": ["Rohham’s high banner climbed into the cloud,", "Its tiger emblem fierce above the crowd."]}, {"id": "B11.8.34", "lines": ["Behind came Bijan’s banner, raised on high,", "A crowned maid figured on it toward the sky."]}, {"id": "B11.8.35", "lines": ["His sons and grandsons, seventy-eight in train,", "Left scarcely room across the spreading plain."]}, {"id": "B11.8.36", "lines": ["They filled the plain, each flag a different shade,", "In red and yellow, violet arrayed."]}, {"id": "B11.8.37", "lines": ["The world seemed subject to his stern command,", "The heads of chiefs lay humbled by his hand."]}, {"id": "B11.8.38", "lines": ["Gudarz called blessings on the crown and throne,", "Then passed before the Shah with all his own."]}, {"id": "B11.8.39", "lines": ["The Shah returned the blessing he had heard,", "And praised the clan with every gracious word."]}, {"id": "B11.8.40", "lines": ["Behind Gudarz came noble Gostaham,", "The vigilant son born of Gazhdaham."]}, {"id": "B11.8.41", "lines": ["His chosen weapon for the field was spear,", "While bow and poplar shafts hung ever near."]}, {"id": "B11.8.42", "lines": ["Whenever from his arm an arrow sped,", "It split both rock and anvil with its head."]}, {"id": "B11.8.43", "lines": ["He marched with mighty forces at his side,", "With gorz, scimitars, and stores supplied."]}, {"id": "B11.8.44", "lines": ["Above him waved a banner with a moon,", "Whose splendor climbed the clouded skies at noon."]}, {"id": "B11.8.45", "lines": ["He blessed the Shah, who gloried in his fame,", "Then prudent Ashkash came, his turn to claim."]}, {"id": "B11.8.46", "lines": ["A gorz-bearer from Qobad’s noble line,", "With ready mind and judgment clear and fine."]}, {"id": "B11.8.47", "lines": ["His troops from Baluchistan and Kuch came,", "Fierce rams in battle, fired by glory’s flame."]}, {"id": "B11.8.48", "lines": ["No man had seen their backs turned in the fight,", "Nor one bare finger showed beneath the light."]}, {"id": "B11.8.49", "lines": ["A pard with outstretched claws adorned their sign,", "Which flashed above the warriors’ marching line."]}, {"id": "B11.8.50", "lines": ["Ashkash saluted Kay Khosrow at length,", "And praised the fortune of his growing strength."]}, {"id": "B11.8.51", "lines": ["Meanwhile the Shah sat high above the plain,", "And watched the ordered ranks in martial train."]}, {"id": "B11.8.52", "lines": ["The marching columns stretched two mil in line,", "And filled the Shah with joy at their design."]}, {"id": "B11.8.53", "lines": ["He blessed his sleepless fortune and his throne,", "And praised the power that Heaven made his own."]}, {"id": "B11.8.54", "lines": ["Behind Ashkash rode Farhad, tried and true,", "Who cared for all the troops the journey through."]}, {"id": "B11.8.55", "lines": ["In every battle he was like a sire,", "Sustaining weary men through blood and fire."]}, {"id": "B11.8.56", "lines": ["A gazelle blazoned on his banner streamed,", "Above the marching troops where armor gleamed."]}, {"id": "B11.8.57", "lines": ["His soldiers bore bright Indian blades in hand,", "With Sughdian jowshans, Turkish saddles grand."]}, {"id": "B11.8.58", "lines": ["They all descended from Qobad’s great line,", "With justice, grace, and gifts of power divine."]}, {"id": "B11.8.59", "lines": ["The face of each shone brightly as the moon,", "Yet burned like sunlight in the clash at noon."]}, {"id": "B11.8.60", "lines": ["Farhad beheld the youthful king, and prayed", "That heaven’s care might be the monarch’s aid."]}, {"id": "B11.8.61", "lines": ["Then Guraza, head of Givgan’s race,", "Came next, Shah-favored, tried in martial grace."]}, {"id": "B11.8.62", "lines": ["Upon his saddle lay a kamand coiled,", "Prepared for battle, polished bright and oiled."]}, {"id": "B11.8.63", "lines": ["He bore a banner blazoned with a boar,", "While warriors with kamands marched before."]}, {"id": "B11.8.64", "lines": ["All these warriors and heroes of the plain,", "Saluted Khosrow, then resumed their train."]}, {"id": "B11.8.65", "lines": ["Behind came Zangeh, Shavaran’s brave son,", "With chiefs and champions, forth his men had run."]}, {"id": "B11.8.66", "lines": ["His homa-banner streamed above the sand,", "While like a mountain moved his gathered band."]}, {"id": "B11.8.67", "lines": ["He blessed the Shah and praised his noble height,", "His sword and signet gleaming in the light."]}, {"id": "B11.8.68", "lines": ["All those from Baghdad marching in his force", "Bore steel and lances bright upon their course."]}, {"id": "B11.8.69", "lines": ["Beneath the homa-banner marched they all,", "While Khosrow sat upon the elephant tall."]}, {"id": "B11.8.70", "lines": ["Behind him came brave Faramarz, renowned,", "In noble stature, grace, and glory crowned."]}, {"id": "B11.8.71", "lines": ["With elephants and drumming koust, his train,", "All eager for the battle on the plain."]}, {"id": "B11.8.72", "lines": ["From Kashmir, Kabul, and Nimruz they came,", "Mighty men, long famous for their great name."]}, {"id": "B11.8.73", "lines": ["His banner blazed like Rostam’s own with fire,", "Seven dragon-heads that stirred the ranks to ire."]}, {"id": "B11.8.74", "lines": ["They reared upon the standard, fierce and vast,", "Like seven dragons from their fetters cast."]}, {"id": "B11.8.75", "lines": ["Like some fruit-bearing tree in spring he came,", "And blessed the Shah with many words of fame."]}, {"id": "B11.8.76", "lines": ["The king rejoiced to see the chief draw near,", "And gave him prudent counsel, grave and clear."]}, {"id": "B11.8.77", "lines": ["“The elephantine chief has fostered you;", "In every gathering may honor be your due."]}, {"id": "B11.8.78", "lines": ["You are the son of Rostam, famed in fight,", "From Dastan, Sahm, Nariman comes your right."]}, {"id": "B11.8.79", "lines": ["Now Hind as well lies subject to your reign,", "From Ghanooj to Sistan’s distant plain."]}, {"id": "B11.8.80", "lines": ["If no one makes you war within that land,", "Then darken no man’s life beneath your hand."]}, {"id": "B11.8.81", "lines": ["In every place protect the poor and weak,", "And give with open hand to all who seek."]}, {"id": "B11.8.82", "lines": ["Know well your friends, and learn which men are wise,", "And who will share your grief when sorrow lies."]}, {"id": "B11.8.83", "lines": ["Do every task today and see it through,", "Nor trust tomorrow to complete for you."]}, {"id": "B11.8.84", "lines": ["For crookedness brings only late regret,", "Walk straight, and keep the proper pathway set."]}, {"id": "B11.8.85", "lines": ["I have bestowed this kingdom in your trust;", "Preserve it now through judgment firm and just."]}, {"id": "B11.8.86", "lines": ["Make war not without cause or rightful need,", "Nor let your youth become the slave of greed."]}, {"id": "B11.8.87", "lines": ["Bring pain to none who has not harmed your name;", "Nor trust this turning world to stay the same."]}, {"id": "B11.8.88", "lines": ["One hour it glows like sandalwood in flame,", "The next turns dark as ebony with shame."]}, {"id": "B11.8.89", "lines": ["Your duty is to leave a noble trace,", "And never yield to sorrow or disgrace."]}, {"id": "B11.8.90", "lines": ["Our days will pass; the heavens count each breath,", "Keep heart in joy and body sound till death."]}, {"id": "B11.8.91", "lines": ["The World-Creator look upon your face,", "And smoke and grief your enemies embrace.”"]}, {"id": "B11.8.92", "lines": ["When Faramarz had heard the Shah’s command,", "He left his swift horse there upon the sand."]}, {"id": "B11.8.93", "lines": ["He blessed the youthful Shah and spoke his praise:", "“Like the new moon, increase throughout your days.”"]}, {"id": "B11.8.94", "lines": ["He kissed the earth and rendered homage due,", "Then turned to take the road that lay in view."]}, {"id": "B11.8.95", "lines": ["Matchless Rostam, sorrowing to part,", "Rode two farsangs beside him, heavy heart."]}, {"id": "B11.8.96", "lines": ["Of warfare, wisdom, feasting, he would speak,", "And teach his son the conduct wise men seek."]}, {"id": "B11.8.97", "lines": ["He wished him joy and fortune in his reign,", "Then sadly turned back toward the royal train."]}, {"id": "B11.8.98", "lines": ["The Shah descended from the elephant’s chair,", "And mounted on a charger swift and fair."]}, {"id": "B11.8.99", "lines": ["In royal state he rode back to the tent,", "Deep in reflection on the day’s event."]}, {"id": "B11.8.100", "lines": ["When Rostam had returned, they brought the wine,", "And Khosrow raised a mighty cup, brimmed fine."]}, {"id": "B11.8.101", "lines": ["He said: “Let mirth suffice to ease man’s pain;", "No wisdom tells us what shall yet remain."]}, {"id": "B11.8.102", "lines": ["Where now are Salm and Tur and Fereydoon?", "All dust beneath the ever-turning moon."]}, {"id": "B11.8.103", "lines": ["We strive and labor, gathering wealth in vain,", "And break the heart’s desires through all our strain."]}, {"id": "B11.8.104", "lines": ["For in the end the dust shall be our share,", "And none escape the doom that all must bear."]}, {"id": "B11.8.105", "lines": ["Then let us pass the darkening night with wine,", "With brimming goblets sparkling rich and fine."]}, {"id": "B11.8.106", "lines": ["Then Tus shall sound the ney for coming fight,", "As buq, koust, tabira wake the newborn light."]}, {"id": "B11.8.107", "lines": ["Then we shall see whom turning Heaven will bless,", "And favor in the coming battle’s stress."]}, {"id": "B11.8.108", "lines": ["Yet what avail our labor, toil, and strain,", "When from the first what must be shall remain?"]}, {"id": "B11.8.109", "lines": ["Both good and evil pass; why should the wise", "Fill hearts with grief beneath the turning skies?"]}, {"id": "B11.8.110", "lines": ["Still, by the aid of Him who fashioned all,", "I shall avenge my noble father’s fall.”"]}]}, {"id": "B12", "title": "Forood and the Snowstorm Campaign", "summary": "26 sections · 1,309 couplets", "path": "/poem/b12/", "couplets": [{"id": "B12.1.1", "lines": ["Let no great king, however fierce afield,", "Give jealous men his army’s might to wield."]}, {"id": "B12.1.2", "lines": ["A man whose eyes with tears of envy flow,", "Sheds tears no healing art can cure or know."]}, {"id": "B12.1.3", "lines": ["Though noble-born and lofty in his pride,", "His sense of greatness never leaves his side."]}, {"id": "B12.1.4", "lines": ["To serve another galls his heart with hate,", "And speak to please him is a bitter fate."]}, {"id": "B12.1.5", "lines": ["Though sepahbod may call the man a friend,", "No wisdom with his heart can ever blend."]}, {"id": "B12.1.6", "lines": ["For if the heavens thwart his secret will,", "He looks on all creation coldly still."]}, {"id": "B12.1.7", "lines": ["No goodness finds a dwelling in his breast,", "His heart-rending desires give him no rest."]}, {"id": "B12.1.8", "lines": ["No wise man counts him one of humankind,", "If wisdom has no root within his mind."]}, {"id": "B12.1.9", "lines": ["And when you hear this tale in order told,", "The source of evil nature you behold."]}, {"id": "B12.2.1", "lines": ["When Sol arose in all its kingly blaze,", "Above the Ram he climbed through dawn-lit haze,"]}, {"id": "B12.2.2", "lines": ["And all the world like molten gold burned bright,", "Tus’s tabiras thundered through the light."]}, {"id": "B12.2.3", "lines": ["The buq resounded; koust, tabira roared,", "And battle cries from every throat were poured."]}, {"id": "B12.2.4", "lines": ["The earth was turmoil; all the air was flame,", "While neighing chargers shook the heavens’ frame."]}, {"id": "B12.2.5", "lines": ["From horse-hoof dust the sun and moon grew black,", "While armor flashed along the army’s track."]}, {"id": "B12.2.6", "lines": ["The elephants let forth a thunderous cry,", "As though the Nile had flooded earth and sky."]}, {"id": "B12.2.7", "lines": ["The air turned yellow, violet, blue, and red,", "As the Kaviani standard onward spread."]}, {"id": "B12.2.8", "lines": ["Amid the mounted kinsmen of Gudarz,", "It waved beneath the ever-turning stars."]}, {"id": "B12.2.9", "lines": ["Before the royal tents the Shah appeared,", "In crown and gorz, by all the troops revered."]}, {"id": "B12.2.10", "lines": ["With royal ney resounding all around,", "He stood before the ranks in glory crowned."]}, {"id": "B12.2.11", "lines": ["Great Tus with golden shoes and Kaveh’s sign,", "With Nohzar’s lofty kindred formed in line,"]}, {"id": "B12.2.12", "lines": ["Advanced before Khosrow in warlike pride,", "While nobles crowned with gems rode at his side."]}, {"id": "B12.2.13", "lines": ["Above them waved a banner broad and high,", "An elephant emblazoned toward the sky."]}, {"id": "B12.2.14", "lines": ["They moved together like a mountain black,", "And surged toward the Shah along the track."]}, {"id": "B12.2.15", "lines": ["The Shah commanded Tus in measured tone:", "“Bring all the famed sepahbods to my throne.”"]}, {"id": "B12.2.16", "lines": ["The chosen champions came at his command,", "With flags and helmets, warriors of the land."]}, {"id": "B12.2.17", "lines": ["Then to the troops he spoke with royal might:", "“Let Tus command you in the coming fight."]}, {"id": "B12.2.18", "lines": ["He bears the Kaviani standard in the fray;", "Therefore obey whatever he may say.”"]}, {"id": "B12.2.19", "lines": ["Before them all the royal seal was passed", "To Tus, their salar, while the war should last."]}, {"id": "B12.2.20", "lines": ["“Tus is sepahbod in the coming war;", "Obey his counsel now and evermore.”"]}, {"id": "B12.2.21", "lines": ["Then Khosrow spoke to Tus with solemn care:", "“Be true to me and heed what I declare."]}, {"id": "B12.2.22", "lines": ["Let none be wronged along the marching road;", "Such are the laws my royal rule bestowed."]}, {"id": "B12.2.23", "lines": ["Spare farmer, artisan, and peaceful hand;", "Harm none but those girt for the fighting band."]}, {"id": "B12.2.24", "lines": ["Contend with armed opponents in the field,", "But spare the weak who bear no sword or shield."]}, {"id": "B12.2.25", "lines": ["Disturb not those who seek a quiet life,", "For all must leave this world of passing strife."]}, {"id": "B12.2.26", "lines": ["Above all else, keep far from Kalat’s way,", "For if you take that road, our plan goes astray."]}, {"id": "B12.2.27", "lines": ["To Siavash, whose soul shines pure and bright,", "Whose place among the blessed rests in light,"]}, {"id": "B12.2.28", "lines": ["The daughter of great Piran bore a son,", "Like Siavash in form, that noble one."]}, {"id": "B12.2.29", "lines": ["My brother, young, with farr upon his face,", "Dwells with his mother in that guarded place."]}, {"id": "B12.2.30", "lines": ["He scarcely knows Iran’s great chiefs by name,", "Nor men of noble birth and lasting fame."]}, {"id": "B12.2.31", "lines": ["Therefore turn your bridle from that way,", "And leave those mountain strongholds where they stay."]}, {"id": "B12.2.32", "lines": ["For warriors guard the passes of that height,", "And steep ascents are perilous in fight."]}, {"id": "B12.2.33", "lines": ["He is a brave and warlike chief, well known,", "For noble form and courage clearly shown."]}, {"id": "B12.2.34", "lines": ["Therefore choose well the desert road instead;", "It is unwise where lions’ claws are spread.”"]}, {"id": "B12.2.35", "lines": ["Then Tus replied: “Your order shall be done;", "We take the road you name, and no other one.”"]}, {"id": "B12.2.36", "lines": ["Then Tus rode forth without the least delay,", "While Khosrow turned to court another way."]}, {"id": "B12.2.37", "lines": ["With Rostam seated proudly at his side,", "He spoke of grief and Afrasiab’s pride."]}, {"id": "B12.2.38", "lines": ["The Mobad and the royal counselors all", "Attended, silent, in the royal hall."]}, {"id": "B12.2.39", "lines": ["They spoke of Afrasiab and his reign,", "Of Khosrow’s grief and Siavash’s pain."]}, {"id": "B12.2.40", "lines": ["Meanwhile great Tus led forth his gathered force,", "And crossed the spreading plain upon his course."]}, {"id": "B12.2.41", "lines": ["At length they reached a place where two roads spread:", "One barren, waterless, and grim with dread,"]}, {"id": "B12.2.42", "lines": ["The other wound by Kalat’s guarded side,", "Through Charam’s fertile valleys, green and wide."]}, {"id": "B12.2.43", "lines": ["The elephants and koust remained there still,", "Awaiting Tus to speak his sovereign will."]}, {"id": "B12.2.44", "lines": ["The chiefs stood waiting at the branching ways,", "Until the warrior came through dust and haze."]}, {"id": "B12.2.45", "lines": ["Whichever road great Tus should choose that day,", "The army would obey and take that way."]}, {"id": "B12.2.46", "lines": ["Then Tus spoke long about the desert road,", "Its burning sands, its thirst, its crushing load:"]}, {"id": "B12.2.47", "lines": ["“Though dust were ambergris beneath our tread,", "And musk upon the desert wind were spread,"]}, {"id": "B12.2.48", "lines": ["Still on so long and wearying a track", "Our troops need water, rest, or strength will crack."]}, {"id": "B12.2.49", "lines": ["We need green fields and forage for the steeds,", "A watered country suited to our needs."]}, {"id": "B12.2.50", "lines": ["Through Kalat and through Charam let us ride,", "At Mayam camp, with running streams beside."]}, {"id": "B12.2.51", "lines": ["Why choose the desert, suffering thirst and pain,", "And count long farsangs on the scorching plain?"]}, {"id": "B12.2.52", "lines": ["I rode that road in former years of war,", "When Gazhdaham led forth the force before."]}, {"id": "B12.2.53", "lines": ["No lasting hardship on that road we knew,", "Save some slight rise and fall we journeyed through."]}, {"id": "B12.2.54", "lines": ["Far better, then, to take the greener way;", "Let not the desert drain our strength today.”"]}, {"id": "B12.2.55", "lines": ["Then Gudarz said: “O chief of high command,", "The Shah has placed the army in your hand."]}, {"id": "B12.2.56", "lines": ["Conduct the troops according to his word,", "And let no plea against his will be heard."]}, {"id": "B12.2.57", "lines": ["Do not bring grief to Khosrow by your will,", "Lest harm descend upon the army still.”"]}, {"id": "B12.2.58", "lines": ["Then Tus replied: “O seasoned man of war,", "Let not such fears afflict your spirit more."]}, {"id": "B12.2.59", "lines": ["The Shah will not condemn this chosen way.”", "Toward Kalat and Charam they rode that day."]}, {"id": "B12.2.60", "lines": ["Because he put Khosrow’s command aside,", "The end will show what fortune would decide."]}, {"id": "B12.3.1", "lines": ["News reached Forood: “The sun has lost its light,", "Beneath the dust that veils the world from sight."]}, {"id": "B12.3.2", "lines": ["From hoof and elephant-foot rose the stain,", "Till Nile-like darkness spread across the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B12.3.3", "lines": ["Then Tokhvar said: “Your brother’s force draws near,", "From Iran’s land, with vengeance sharp and clear."]}, {"id": "B12.3.4", "lines": ["Against Turan they march with vengeance sworn,", "And toward Kalat their mighty lines are borne."]}, {"id": "B12.3.5", "lines": ["I know not where their battlefield shall rise,", "Nor where their darkened banners veil the skies.”"]}, {"id": "B12.3.6", "lines": ["The youth, still green, on hearing news like this,", "Grew dark of soul and sank in grief’s abyss."]}, {"id": "B12.3.7", "lines": ["He left the hold and climbed the mountain height,", "Then scanned the neighboring slopes and plains in sight."]}, {"id": "B12.3.8", "lines": ["At his command they gathered from the plain", "The sheep and camels, driving them in train,"]}, {"id": "B12.3.9", "lines": ["And horses roaming over hill and lea;", "No grazing beast remained abroad and free."]}, {"id": "B12.3.10", "lines": ["Toward Sepid Kooh and Anboh all were led,", "And there within their bounds the herds were spread."]}, {"id": "B12.3.11", "lines": ["He mounted swiftly on a chosen steed,", "Prepared for counsel in that hour of need."]}, {"id": "B12.3.12", "lines": ["Then koust from Charam sounded far away,", "And Mayam’s dust-clouds darkened all the day."]}, {"id": "B12.3.13", "lines": ["Jarireh watched from high upon the wall,", "And saw the dust-cloud over Charam fall."]}, {"id": "B12.3.14", "lines": ["Her heart grew heavy as the army came,", "Still filled with grief and smoke for Siavash’s name."]}, {"id": "B12.3.15", "lines": ["Then young Forood, by grief and care oppressed,", "Approached his mother, whom he thus addressed:"]}, {"id": "B12.3.16", "lines": ["“From Iran comes an army bold and grand,", "Its koust and elephants at Tus’s command."]}, {"id": "B12.3.17", "lines": ["What shall we do? What plan should we enact,", "Before their army moves to swift attack?”"]}, {"id": "B12.3.18", "lines": ["Jarireh answered: “Warrior, may your days", "Be fortunate beneath Heaven’s bright gaze."]}, {"id": "B12.3.19", "lines": ["Your brother now commands Iran’s great throne,", "Wise, vigilant Khosrow, world-ruler known."]}, {"id": "B12.3.20", "lines": ["Your lineage and native worth he knows,", "From Siavash the blood in both you flows."]}, {"id": "B12.3.21", "lines": ["No champion like Siavash ever rode,", "Or girded for the warrior’s heavy load."]}, {"id": "B12.3.22", "lines": ["Great Piran gave me first to Siavash;", "For never did his heart with rivals clash."]}, {"id": "B12.3.23", "lines": ["Thus from both sides your blood is nobly born,", "A royal lineage no man may scorn."]}, {"id": "B12.3.24", "lines": ["You are the son of that renowned great line,", "Of Kayan seed and Kayan form and sign."]}, {"id": "B12.3.25", "lines": ["You should be foremost in the coming fight,", "And strike at Turan for your father’s right."]}, {"id": "B12.3.26", "lines": ["Put Roman khaftan on your warrior frame,", "And let revenge within your spirit flame."]}, {"id": "B12.3.27", "lines": ["Your brother is new Shah beneath the sky;", "Be you new avenger; raise the battle cry."]}, {"id": "B12.3.28", "lines": ["This grief could well make leopards howl in pain,", "And nahangs rise lamenting from the main."]}, {"id": "B12.3.29", "lines": ["Birds and fishes curse Afrasiab’s name,", "No man like Siavash to this earth came."]}, {"id": "B12.3.30", "lines": ["No monarch in the world who wore a crown", "Excelled your father in deserved renown:"]}, {"id": "B12.3.31", "lines": ["In prowess, warfare, wisdom, noble birth,", "In royal grace and justice, none on earth."]}, {"id": "B12.3.32", "lines": ["You are the son of that world-famous chief,", "Whose fall has filled all Iran’s heart with grief."]}, {"id": "B12.3.33", "lines": ["Your face proclaims your gohar, birth, and line;", "Avenge your father; let your nezhad shine."]}, {"id": "B12.3.34", "lines": ["Learn which great chiefs lead forth the marching train,", "And honor those who highest praise attain."]}, {"id": "B12.3.35", "lines": ["Set forth rich robes and spread the wine-filled board,", "And honor every worthy chief and lord."]}, {"id": "B12.3.36", "lines": ["Give robes of honor, treasure from your side,", "For Kay Khosrow is all your strength and pride."]}, {"id": "B12.3.37", "lines": ["Let strangers not avenge your father’s right;", "Ride with your brother foremost in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "B12.3.38", "lines": ["Then Forood said: “Among these ranks below,", "What man among them may I trust and know?"]}, {"id": "B12.3.39", "lines": ["These warriors are proud when war is near,", "Yet names and ranks remain to me unclear."]}, {"id": "B12.3.40", "lines": ["No greeting and no message reached me yet;", "Whom should I trust among the ranks now set?”"]}, {"id": "B12.3.41", "lines": ["Jarireh answered: “In the dust below", "Two mighty riders you will come to know:"]}, {"id": "B12.3.42", "lines": ["Seek Bahram and brave Zangeh, Shavaran’s son;", "By signs among the ranks you know each one."]}, {"id": "B12.3.43", "lines": ["From these two chiefs no secret need be sealed;", "To you and me their friendship stands revealed."]}, {"id": "B12.3.44", "lines": ["May your great name endure while earth remains,", "And Siavash’s soul in glory reigns."]}, {"id": "B12.3.45", "lines": ["They never left your father’s royal side;", "As kanarang, beside the Shah, would ride."]}, {"id": "B12.3.46", "lines": ["Go now with Tokhvar as your only aide;", "No greater company should be arrayed."]}, {"id": "B12.3.47", "lines": ["Do not make light of counsel heard today,", "Nor cast a prudent warning far away."]}, {"id": "B12.3.48", "lines": ["Brave Tokhvar knows Iran’s great men and small,", "And knows their names and stations, one and all."]}, {"id": "B12.3.49", "lines": ["He knows the shepherd and the gathered flock,", "And every chief who leads his martial stock.”"]}, {"id": "B12.3.50", "lines": ["Then young Forood replied: “O lion-woman wise,", "Your counsel shines with truth before my eyes.”"]}, {"id": "B12.3.51", "lines": ["A watchman from the lookout then drew near,", "And brought to Forood tidings grim to hear:"]}, {"id": "B12.3.52", "lines": ["“The plain and pass and mountain swarm with men;", "The sun seems caught within their ranks again."]}, {"id": "B12.3.53", "lines": ["From fortress gate to Jang’s far desert ground", "Stand troops and elephants and warriors round.”"]}, {"id": "B12.4.1", "lines": ["With young Forood, wise Tokhvar rode beside, ", "A youth whom cruel fortune long had tried."]}, {"id": "B12.4.2", "lines": ["Whenever hostile heavens rule mankind,", "No rage or mercy changes fate assigned."]}, {"id": "B12.4.3", "lines": ["They climbed a lofty mountain’s windy height", "That overlooked Iran’s assembled might."]}, {"id": "B12.4.4", "lines": ["The riders reached the mountain, rank on rank,", "While troop by troop the army filled each flank."]}, {"id": "B12.4.5", "lines": ["Then young Forood addressed his trusted guide:", "“Conceal no truth nor set one fact aside."]}, {"id": "B12.4.6", "lines": ["Tell me the names of all who meet your sight,", "Each lord and chief beneath each banner bright."]}, {"id": "B12.4.7", "lines": ["Name kanarang and standard-bearer bold,", "The men of gopal and of shoes of gold.”"]}, {"id": "B12.4.8", "lines": ["Between two mountains came Iran’s great force,", "With gleaming armor worn by man and horse."]}, {"id": "B12.4.9", "lines": ["With golden girdles, helms, and standards bright,", "With spears and gopals flashing golden light,"]}, {"id": "B12.4.10", "lines": ["No gold seemed left beneath the darkened ground;", "A cloud seemed pouring jewels all around."]}, {"id": "B12.4.11", "lines": ["The tabira resounded through the pass,", "Till weary vultures wheeled over the mass."]}, {"id": "B12.4.12", "lines": ["Then thirty thousand warriors took the field,", "Each one with ready spear and ready shield."]}, {"id": "B12.4.13", "lines": ["Then Tokhvar scanned the army from the height:", "“I shall name every chief and standard right."]}, {"id": "B12.4.14", "lines": ["That elephant-banner rises broad and high,", "With violet swords of horsemen passing by."]}, {"id": "B12.4.15", "lines": ["It marks great Tus, the fiercest chief in fight,", "Whose fury puts the boldest men to flight."]}, {"id": "B12.4.16", "lines": ["Behind him streams a standard with the sun;", "It marks Prince Fariborz, Kavus’s son."]}, {"id": "B12.4.17", "lines": ["Your uncle is a man of noble grace,", "A prudent chief of honorable place."]}, {"id": "B12.4.18", "lines": ["Beside him waves a banner with the moon,", "Surrounded by fierce warriors, fighting soon."]}, {"id": "B12.4.19", "lines": ["That chief is Gostaham, Gazhdaham’s heir,", "Whose might can make an elephant beware."]}, {"id": "B12.4.20", "lines": ["Next rose a falcon on a banner wide,", "With fierce and warlike horsemen at its side."]}, {"id": "B12.4.21", "lines": ["It flies above brave Zangeh’s battle-band,", "The son of Shavaran, with sword in hand."]}, {"id": "B12.4.22", "lines": ["Behind it stands a maiden, moonlike, fair,", "Ruby-bright, with black-silk curling hair."]}, {"id": "B12.4.23", "lines": ["That banner marks Bijan, whose courage glows,", "Who sprays the heavens with the blood of foes."]}, {"id": "B12.4.24", "lines": ["The tiger-banner leaping fierce and wide,", "As though to tear a lion’s flank aside,"]}, {"id": "B12.4.25", "lines": ["Is borne by valiant Shidush through the fight,", "Who moves like some great mountain from its site."]}, {"id": "B12.4.26", "lines": ["Behind him waves the standard of the boar,", "A sign that seems to shake the heavens in war."]}, {"id": "B12.4.27", "lines": ["It marks brave Guraza riding to the fray,", "With kamand-afgans ranged along his way."]}, {"id": "B12.4.28", "lines": ["A buffalo adorned the next great sign,", "With spearmen first and troops behind in line."]}, {"id": "B12.4.29", "lines": ["That banner marks Farhad, a chief of fame,", "Whose towering height seemed heaven’s own to claim."]}, {"id": "B12.4.30", "lines": ["A wolf-device on one dark banner lies,", "And marks brave Giv before all watching eyes."]}, {"id": "B12.4.31", "lines": ["A golden lion streams above the field,", "The sign of Gudarz, bearing sword and shield."]}, {"id": "B12.4.32", "lines": ["The standard bearing forth a painted pard", "Precedes proud Rivniz, imperious and hard."]}, {"id": "B12.4.33", "lines": ["The gazelle-banner streaming in the air", "Belongs to Nastooh, Gudarz’s noble heir."]}, {"id": "B12.4.34", "lines": ["The standard with the mountain sheep displayed", "Pertains to Bahram, fierce, of none afraid."]}, {"id": "B12.4.35", "lines": ["They all are lion-hearted chiefs of might;", "To name them one by one would last till night.”"]}, {"id": "B12.4.36", "lines": ["Thus Tokhvar named each chief and battle sign,", "Explaining all their order and design."]}, {"id": "B12.4.37", "lines": ["The prince observed each chief, both high and low,", "And like a flower his joyful face did glow."]}, {"id": "B12.4.38", "lines": ["Then from the height he spoke with burning breath:", "“We shall avenge my noble father’s death."]}, {"id": "B12.4.39", "lines": ["In Chin and in Machin none shall survive;", "No mounted lord shall leave the field alive."]}, {"id": "B12.4.40", "lines": ["I shall seize the dragon, break his great crown,", "And cast his throne and mighty kingdom down.”"]}, {"id": "B12.4.41", "lines": ["Now when the Iranian troops looked high", "And saw Forood against the mountain sky,"]}, {"id": "B12.4.42", "lines": ["And Tokhvar standing closely at his side,", "Then Tus the chief burned hot with wounded pride."]}, {"id": "B12.4.43", "lines": ["He ordered elephants and koust be still,", "And all the army halted at his will."]}, {"id": "B12.4.44", "lines": ["Then Tus declared: “We need a chief of might", "To ride at once and scale the mountain height."]}, {"id": "B12.4.45", "lines": ["Let him discover who these warriors are,", "And why they stand and watch our lines from far."]}, {"id": "B12.4.46", "lines": ["If they belong among our ranks below,", "Two hundred lashes each shall undergo."]}, {"id": "B12.4.47", "lines": ["But if Turanians, bent upon a fight,", "Then bind and drag them here before our sight."]}, {"id": "B12.4.48", "lines": ["But if they die, then lay them in the ground;", "Let neither fear nor hesitation sound."]}, {"id": "B12.4.49", "lines": ["But if they prove to be concealed spies,", "Who seek to count our forces with their eyes,"]}, {"id": "B12.4.50", "lines": ["Then cleave them both in two upon the height,", "And cast them from the mountain out of sight.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.1", "lines": ["Then Bahram, son of Gudarz, told the chief:", "“I shall learn all and make my mission brief."]}, {"id": "B12.5.2", "lines": ["I go to carry out your full command,", "And bring the mountain crest beneath my hand.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.3", "lines": ["He struck his steed and rode with troubled mind,", "And climbed the mountain, leaving dust behind."]}, {"id": "B12.5.4", "lines": ["Forood then said to Tokhvar standing by:", "“Who is this man that climbs so boldly high?"]}, {"id": "B12.5.5", "lines": ["Good God! He takes no notice of us here,", "But scales the rugged slope and feels no fear."]}, {"id": "B12.5.6", "lines": ["He rides a bay horse swiftly up the rise,", "A kamand swinging where his saddle lies.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.7", "lines": ["The counselor replied: “Do not be severe;", "Deal gently with the rider drawing near."]}, {"id": "B12.5.8", "lines": ["I know him neither by his face nor sign,", "But think he comes from Gudarz’s noble line."]}, {"id": "B12.5.9", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow returned from Turan’s land,", "A royal helm went missing from his band."]}, {"id": "B12.5.10", "lines": ["That helm, I think, now crowns this rider’s head,", "And royal jowshan to his girdle spread."]}, {"id": "B12.5.11", "lines": ["He surely comes from Gudarz’s noble race;", "So let us question him with measured grace.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.12", "lines": ["When Bahram nearer to the summit drew,", "His thunderous challenge through the mountain flew:"]}, {"id": "B12.5.13", "lines": ["“Who are you standing on the mountain height?", "Do you not see that vast assembled might?"]}, {"id": "B12.5.14", "lines": ["Do you not hear the buq and koust arise,", "Or fear brave Tus beneath the open skies?”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.15", "lines": ["The prince replied: “No harshness have you known;", "Speak gently, seasoned chief, with tempered tone."]}, {"id": "B12.5.16", "lines": ["You are no lion raging in the plain,", "Nor am I Gur-e-Khar beneath your rein."]}, {"id": "B12.5.17", "lines": ["You do not stand above me in your might,", "In courage, strength, or manhood in the fight."]}, {"id": "B12.5.18", "lines": ["Consider hand and foot, and heart and head,", "And wit and speech by which all men are led;"]}, {"id": "B12.5.19", "lines": ["Consider eyes and ears and judgment clear;", "Judge whether all these gifts in me appear."]}, {"id": "B12.5.20", "lines": ["If so, then cast aside your foolish threat,", "And speak with sense before you must regret."]}, {"id": "B12.5.21", "lines": ["If you will answer, I would question you,", "And gladly hear a counsel wise and true.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.22", "lines": ["Then Bahram said: “Ask all you wish to know;", "You stand in heaven, while I remain below.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.23", "lines": ["Forood inquired: “Who leads this great array,", "And who is most renowned in battle’s day?”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.24", "lines": ["Then Bahram answered: “Tus commands the force;", "The Kaviani standard and koust mark his course."]}, {"id": "B12.5.25", "lines": ["There stand Gudarz and Rohham in their might,", "And Giv and Shidush eager for the fight."]}, {"id": "B12.5.26", "lines": ["There Gorgin stands, with Farhad battle-tried,", "And Gostaham, with valor at his side,"]}, {"id": "B12.5.27", "lines": ["With Zangeh, Shavaran’s renowned son,", "And Guraza, whose blows make warriors run.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.28", "lines": ["Then young Forood replied with warm acclaim:", "“Why have you left out Bahram’s honored name?"]}, {"id": "B12.5.29", "lines": ["Among the sons of Gudarz, Bahram’s fame", "Brings joy; yet from your roll he bears no claim.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.30", "lines": ["Then Bahram said: “O young man, brave and bold,", "Who taught you Bahram’s name in days of old?”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.31", "lines": ["Forood replied: “My mother was my guide:", "‘When Iran’s army comes, seek him,’ she cried."]}, {"id": "B12.5.32", "lines": ["‘Seek Bahram first among your father’s kin,", "And Zangeh too, when Iran’s troops come in."]}, {"id": "B12.5.33", "lines": ["Both were your father’s foster-brothers true;", "So seek the counsel they may offer you.’”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.34", "lines": ["Then Bahram said: “O youth of royal root,", "You are that kingly tree’s auspicious fruit."]}, {"id": "B12.5.35", "lines": ["You are Forood, of royal root and line;", "May joy and length of days forever shine!”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.36", "lines": ["The prince replied: “Forood indeed am I;", "A fallen cypress sends this shoot on high.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.37", "lines": ["Then Bahram said: “Now show the mark you bear,", "The sign that proves you are Siavash’s heir.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.38", "lines": ["Forood displayed his arm before his eyes;", "Its noble beauty filled him with surprise."]}, {"id": "B12.5.39", "lines": ["An amber mole on rose-hued skin he bore,", "Whose like in Chin no compass drew before."]}, {"id": "B12.5.40", "lines": ["Then Bahram knew him by that royal sign:", "“From Kay Qobad through Siavash springs this line.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.41", "lines": ["He blessed the prince and bowed with courtly grace,", "Then climbed the steep to reach the lofty place."]}, {"id": "B12.5.42", "lines": ["Forood dismounted, sat upon a stone,", "And welcomed Bahram warmly as his own:"]}, {"id": "B12.5.43", "lines": ["“O lion in the fury of the fight!", "Exalted, wise, and terrible in might!"]}, {"id": "B12.5.44", "lines": ["If my own eyes could see my father still,", "No greater joy could ever my heart fill"]}, {"id": "B12.5.45", "lines": ["Than seeing you in gladness, hale and sound,", "Accomplished, wise, in every virtue crowned."]}, {"id": "B12.5.46", "lines": ["I climbed this mountain height so I might know", "What chiefs and champions march in ranks below."]}, {"id": "B12.5.47", "lines": ["To learn the names of heroes in the fight,", "And lords whose glory shines with lasting light."]}, {"id": "B12.5.48", "lines": ["I will prepare a feast as best I may,", "And honor Iran’s Pahlevans today."]}, {"id": "B12.5.49", "lines": ["Fine steeds and swords, bright gorz and belts beside,", "I will bestow with open-handed pride."]}, {"id": "B12.5.50", "lines": ["Then I will march with vengeance in my breast", "Against Turan and grant my spirit rest."]}, {"id": "B12.5.51", "lines": ["Such vengeance is the task that fits my name;", "For I in battle am a blazing flame."]}, {"id": "B12.5.52", "lines": ["Now ask the Pahlevan to climb and stay,", "And spend one joyful week with me, I pray."]}, {"id": "B12.5.53", "lines": ["A week we will converse, and all the while", "I shall look on them with a joyful smile."]}, {"id": "B12.5.54", "lines": ["Upon the eighth day when the koust shall sound,", "And Tus mounts up while armies gather round,"]}, {"id": "B12.5.55", "lines": ["I shall gird for vengeance for my father’s wrong,", "And wage a grief-filled battle fierce and long."]}, {"id": "B12.5.56", "lines": ["That battle shall teach lions war that day;", "The vulture’s crop bear witness to the fray."]}, {"id": "B12.5.57", "lines": ["No champion born upon this mortal earth", "Shall gird for vengeance with such royal worth.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.58", "lines": ["Then Bahram answered: “Young prince, brave and wise,", "With honar, horsemanship, and strength you rise."]}, {"id": "B12.5.59", "lines": ["I will report your words to Tus, and plead,", "Kissing his hand, that he your message heed."]}, {"id": "B12.5.60", "lines": ["Yet our sepahbod lacks a prudent mind;", "No place for counsel in his head you find."]}, {"id": "B12.5.61", "lines": ["Though honar, wealth, and noble blood he bears,", "No loyal thought of Shah his spirit shares."]}, {"id": "B12.5.62", "lines": ["He rose against Giv, Gudarz, and the Shah,", "For Fariborz and crown, against the law."]}, {"id": "B12.5.63", "lines": ["He said: ‘From Nohzar’s royal line I spring;", "I myself am fit to rule as king.’"]}, {"id": "B12.5.64", "lines": ["Self-willed, with neither warp nor woof in place,", "He gives sound counsel neither room nor grace."]}, {"id": "B12.5.65", "lines": ["He may reject the message that I bear,", "And turn upon me with an angry glare."]}, {"id": "B12.5.66", "lines": ["I know his heart; it will not bend once set;", "The wisest plea has never moved him yet."]}, {"id": "B12.5.67", "lines": ["If any rider but myself draws near,", "Let neither head nor helmet there appear."]}, {"id": "B12.5.68", "lines": ["One rider only should be sent your way;", "If one appears, shut fast your gate and stay."]}, {"id": "B12.5.69", "lines": ["Tus said: ‘Ride up and learn what men they are,", "But do not ask their purpose from afar."]}, {"id": "B12.5.70", "lines": ["Let gorz and khanjar settle this affair;", "Why should men stand upon that mountain bare?’"]}, {"id": "B12.5.71", "lines": ["If peace prevails, I shall return to you", "With welcome news and counsel sound and true."]}, {"id": "B12.5.72", "lines": ["Then gladly I will lead you to our side,", "And bring you to the army as my guide.”"]}, {"id": "B12.5.73", "lines": ["Then Forood drew a golden gorz that shone,", "Its turquoise handle flashed like precious stone."]}, {"id": "B12.5.74", "lines": ["“It may yet prove of service in our need;", "If noble Tus is kindly in his deed,"]}, {"id": "B12.5.75", "lines": ["Our hearts will fill with pleasure and content;", "And further gifts by me shall then be sent:"]}, {"id": "B12.5.76", "lines": ["Fine steeds and saddles, and a crown of gold,", "And royal signet, jeweled to behold.”"]}, {"id": "B12.6.1", "lines": ["Then Bahram, son of Gudarz, spoke and said:", "“May wisdom guard your spirit and your head."]}, {"id": "B12.6.2", "lines": ["That youth is Prince Forood, of royal birth,", "Whose guiltless father’s blood was spilled on earth."]}, {"id": "B12.6.3", "lines": ["He showed the royal mark upon his skin,", "The sign of Kavus and Kay Qobad’s kin."]}, {"id": "B12.6.4", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow warned you, and his words were clear:", "‘Do not bring harm to Siavash’s son here.’”"]}, {"id": "B12.6.5", "lines": ["The haughty Tus replied in sudden wrath:", "“The buq and koust resound along our path."]}, {"id": "B12.6.6", "lines": ["My order leaves no room for you to stray:", "‘Bring him before me; ask nothing; obey.’"]}, {"id": "B12.6.7", "lines": ["If he is king, then who in truth am I?", "Why does he stand upon that mountain high?"]}, {"id": "B12.6.8", "lines": ["Some Turanian youth, like raven black,", "Has blocked the road and holds our army back."]}, {"id": "B12.6.9", "lines": ["In Gudarz’s sons I see no good today;", "Their self-willed deeds bring harm to our array."]}, {"id": "B12.6.10", "lines": ["You stood afraid before one horseman’s stare,", "As though a lion crouched within its lair."]}, {"id": "B12.6.11", "lines": ["He saw our ranks, then turned to craft and guile;", "You crossed those slopes for nothing all the while.”"]}, {"id": "B12.6.12", "lines": ["Then Tus addressed the gathered chiefs and spoke:", "“O warriors, who will take this heavy yoke?"]}, {"id": "B12.6.13", "lines": ["I need a warrior fearless, fierce, and bold,", "To climb that height and do as I have told."]}, {"id": "B12.6.14", "lines": ["Bring me his severed head before my sight,", "Cut with your khanjar on that mountain height.”"]}, {"id": "B12.6.15", "lines": ["Then Rivniz quickly girded for the fight,", "His doom drew near him on that fatal night."]}, {"id": "B12.6.16", "lines": ["Then Bahram spoke to Rivniz, stern and brief:", "“Do not so quickly purchase lasting grief."]}, {"id": "B12.6.17", "lines": ["Revere Yazdan who rules both sun and moon,", "And shame before the Shah should check you soon."]}, {"id": "B12.6.18", "lines": ["That mountain youth is of the Shah’s own kin,", "A famed horseman with royal blood within."]}, {"id": "B12.6.19", "lines": ["Though but one rider from our army ride", "Against that prince upon the mountainside,"]}, {"id": "B12.6.20", "lines": ["Not one would leave alive beneath his hand;", "You darken joyful hearts at your command.”"]}, {"id": "B12.6.21", "lines": ["This warning only stirred up Tus to rage;", "He would not hear the counsel of the sage."]}, {"id": "B12.6.22", "lines": ["He ordered several chiefs of proven might", "To ride at once and climb the mountain height."]}, {"id": "B12.6.23", "lines": ["Then many warriors hurried toward the site,", "Each proud of heart and eager for the fight."]}, {"id": "B12.6.24", "lines": ["Bahram continued: “This is no small thing;", "The Shah’s own kin stands there, of royal spring."]}, {"id": "B12.6.25", "lines": ["One hair of his outweighs a hundred men;", "Who saw Siavash will know his face again.”"]}, {"id": "B12.6.26", "lines": ["When Bahram named the prince and royal line,", "The riders turned their steeds back from the incline."]}, {"id": "B12.7.1", "lines": ["Next Tus’s son-in-law rode to the fore,", "While turning heavens mocked the fate he bore."]}, {"id": "B12.7.2", "lines": ["By Charam’s road toward Sepid Kooh he pressed,", "With malice burning fiercely in his breast."]}, {"id": "B12.7.3", "lines": ["From high above, Forood beheld him ride,", "Then drew his royal bow in wrath and pride."]}, {"id": "B12.7.4", "lines": ["He said to old Tokhvar: “Tus mocks my word;", "This rider is no Bahram, as I heard."]}, {"id": "B12.7.5", "lines": ["My heart grows troubled; ease has fled my ways.", "See if you know the horseman through the haze;"]}, {"id": "B12.7.6", "lines": ["Why is he clad in iron head to heel?", "See if his name or lineage you reveal.”"]}, {"id": "B12.7.7", "lines": ["Then Tokhvar said: “That rider, battle-famed,", "Is Rivniz, for his horsemanship acclaimed."]}, {"id": "B12.7.8", "lines": ["He has forty sisters, springtime-fair;", "And in his line no other son is heir."]}, {"id": "B12.7.9", "lines": ["Deceitful, treacherous, a flattering tongue,", "Tus’s son-in-law, both valiant and young.”"]}, {"id": "B12.7.10", "lines": ["Forood replied: “Such praise suits times of peace.", "If he rides near for war, his breath shall cease;"]}, {"id": "B12.7.11", "lines": ["He soon shall sleep where mourning sisters kneel;", "If but my arrow’s wind should brush his steel,"]}, {"id": "B12.7.12", "lines": ["If he survives, then count me not a man;", "With one shaft horse or rider ends its span."]}, {"id": "B12.7.13", "lines": ["Speak now, old Tokhvar, weathered still in strife;", "What counsel gives your long experience in life?”"]}, {"id": "B12.7.14", "lines": ["Then Tokhvar said: “Loose at the man. Attack;", "Perhaps the heart of Tus will burn and crack."]}, {"id": "B12.7.15", "lines": ["He does not know your heart was set on peace;", "Yet Tus brings war and will not let it cease."]}, {"id": "B12.7.16", "lines": ["He brings you war though you sought peace before,", "And shames your brother Khosrow all the more.”"]}, {"id": "B12.7.17", "lines": ["Then Rivniz nearer to the summit came;", "Forood drew taut his shiz bow to aim."]}, {"id": "B12.7.18", "lines": ["From high a poplar shaft against him sped,", "And stitched his Roman helmet to his head."]}, {"id": "B12.7.19", "lines": ["The rider crashed; his charger turned away,", "His head sank deep in dust where Rivniz lay."]}, {"id": "B12.7.20", "lines": ["From Mayam Tus looked upward at the height,", "The mountain vanished wholly from his sight."]}, {"id": "B12.7.21", "lines": ["The wise have left this warning for our day:", "“For evil nature, even mountains pay.”"]}, {"id": "B12.8.1", "lines": ["Then Tus addressed Zarasp: “Let fire start,", "Like Azargashasp’s blaze, within your heart."]}, {"id": "B12.8.2", "lines": ["Put on the arms that noble warriors wear,", "And guard your life with vigilance and care."]}, {"id": "B12.8.3", "lines": ["Perhaps you seek revenge for him now slain;", "No other seeker rises on the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B12.8.4", "lines": ["Zarasp set out, his helmet on his head,", "His heart for vengeance, lips with boasting fed."]}, {"id": "B12.8.5", "lines": ["He roared and struck his charger toward the height,", "And like a fire came blazing into sight."]}, {"id": "B12.8.6", "lines": ["Then Forood, lion-hearted in his rage,", "Spoke now to Tokhvar, battle-seasoned sage:"]}, {"id": "B12.8.7", "lines": ["“Another horseman hastens toward our keep;", "Go see if chief or soldier climbs the steep.”"]}, {"id": "B12.8.8", "lines": ["Tokhvar replied: “Zarasp is this one’s name,", "The son of Tus, a warrior known to fame."]}, {"id": "B12.8.9", "lines": ["He never turns his charger from the line,", "Though armored elephants before him shine."]}, {"id": "B12.8.10", "lines": ["He was this rider's brother-in-law allied; ", "He comes to avenge the kinsman who has died."]}, {"id": "B12.8.11", "lines": ["When he beholds your stature, arm, and helm,", "Loose then your shaft; let death his strength overwhelm."]}, {"id": "B12.8.12", "lines": ["Bring head to dust and cast him from his horse;", "Then mad Tus learns no jest has shaped our course.”"]}, {"id": "B12.8.13", "lines": ["Forood spurred forward, bowstring drawn with might,", "And struck Zarasp through the middle in his flight."]}, {"id": "B12.8.14", "lines": ["The shaft pinned body fast to saddle frame;", "Its arrowhead consumed his vital flame."]}, {"id": "B12.8.15", "lines": ["He fell; his steed forsook him where he lay,", "And raced full speed back down the mountain way."]}, {"id": "B12.9.1", "lines": ["A mighty clamor rose through Iran’s force,", "The grieving warriors cast their helms off course."]}, {"id": "B12.9.2", "lines": ["Then Tus, heart-stricken, eyes awash with tears,", "Put on his jowshan as his fury sears."]}, {"id": "B12.9.3", "lines": ["He mourned those fallen chiefs with inward grief,", "And shook with rage and sorrow like a leaf."]}, {"id": "B12.9.4", "lines": ["He mounted grim, immense in warlike pride,", "Like mountain mass upon an elephant’s hide."]}, {"id": "B12.9.5", "lines": ["He wheeled his charger toward the mountain height,", "His heart held vengeance, smoke obscured his sight."]}, {"id": "B12.9.6", "lines": ["Then Tokhvar spoke: “A mountain storms this way,", "In fury climbing upward to the fray."]}, {"id": "B12.9.7", "lines": ["It is the chief himself, the mighty Tus,", "A seasoned nahang; challenge him and lose."]}, {"id": "B12.9.8", "lines": ["Withdraw within the fortress and remain;", "Await what fate hereafter may ordain."]}, {"id": "B12.9.9", "lines": ["His son and son-in-law you slew in war;", "Now think of feast and pleasure nevermore.”"]}, {"id": "B12.9.10", "lines": ["Young Forood answered him with heart aflame:", "“What dread should battle kindle in my frame?"]}, {"id": "B12.9.11", "lines": ["Let Tus come on with lions in array,", "With raging elephants to join the fray;"]}, {"id": "B12.9.12", "lines": ["With fighting nahang, Babr-e Bayan dire;", "Such foes cast no flowers on raging fire.”"]}, {"id": "B12.9.13", "lines": ["Then Tokhvar, rich in wisdom, answered clear:", "“Wise kings do not reject advice they hear."]}, {"id": "B12.9.14", "lines": ["Though you were iron fit to split a hill,", "And wrench a mountain-root by force of will,"]}, {"id": "B12.9.15", "lines": ["Yet still you stand one horseman, all alone,", "Against Iran’s great army, steel and stone."]}, {"id": "B12.9.16", "lines": ["Thirty thousand warriors soon will rise", "And storm the mountain upward to the skies."]}, {"id": "B12.9.17", "lines": ["No fort, no stone, no dust will here remain;", "They tear the whole foundation from the plain."]}, {"id": "B12.9.18", "lines": ["And should some evil strike that mighty chief,", "Prince Khosrow’s heart would break beneath the grief."]}, {"id": "B12.9.19", "lines": ["Your father’s vengeance too would be denied;", "Turn back, shoot not, within the fortress bide.”"]}, {"id": "B12.9.20", "lines": ["What should have first been spoken, he concealed;", "The needed counsel never was revealed."]}, {"id": "B12.9.21", "lines": ["From such a witless counselor came the cost:", "War gained its profit; precious life was lost."]}, {"id": "B12.9.22", "lines": ["Eighty moon-faced serving girls stood near,", "Upon the rooftop watching him with fear."]}, {"id": "B12.9.23", "lines": ["They watched him ceaselessly with eager eyes,", "And filled the fort with talk beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B12.9.24", "lines": ["He could not flee beneath their watching sight,", "Nor stain his name by shrinking from the fight."]}, {"id": "B12.9.25", "lines": ["But Tokhvar said: “Before you make your stand,", "Now hear the course that wisdom would command."]}, {"id": "B12.9.26", "lines": ["Do not destroy noble Tus in this strife;", "Strike first his horse, and let him keep his life."]}, {"id": "B12.9.27", "lines": ["His destined hour may still lie far from sight;", "Fate has not marked him yet to leave the light,"]}, {"id": "B12.9.28", "lines": ["The time of fate has not yet come to show;", "One wooden shaft will never lay him low."]}, {"id": "B12.9.29", "lines": ["Once Tus ascends and reaches to the crest,", "His troops will surge behind him without rest."]}, {"id": "B12.9.30", "lines": ["You lack the strength to stem that rising tide,", "Or face the storm in which his archers ride.”"]}, {"id": "B12.9.31", "lines": ["Young Forood listened closely to that speech,", "Then bent his bow with deadly strength and reach."]}, {"id": "B12.9.32", "lines": ["The poplar arrow struck the charger square,", "A marksman’s stroke that none could hope to bear."]}, {"id": "B12.9.33", "lines": ["The horse fell headlong, lifeless on the ground;", "Tus burned for vengeance, wrath his senses bound."]}, {"id": "B12.9.34", "lines": ["Back to the camp the dusty chief withdrew,", "Afoot, shield at his neck, bewildered too."]}, {"id": "B12.9.35", "lines": ["Meanwhile Forood pursued him with these cries:", "“What grief has struck the mighty chieftain’s eyes?"]}, {"id": "B12.9.36", "lines": ["How shall he lead the armies to the fight,", "Who cannot face one youth upon the height?”"]}, {"id": "B12.9.37", "lines": ["The serving women laughed in mocking tone,", "From high walls down their scornful taunts were thrown."]}, {"id": "B12.9.38", "lines": ["They cried: “The great chief stumbled down in fright,", "Undone before a stripling! What a plight!”"]}, {"id": "B12.9.39", "lines": ["When Tus descended from the mountainside,", "The chiefs approached him, grieving at his side."]}, {"id": "B12.9.40", "lines": ["They gathered round the Pahlevan in prayer,", "Their praises rising through the mountain air."]}, {"id": "B12.9.41", "lines": ["They said: “O mighty champion, safe and sound,", "What joy to see you back on level ground!"]}, {"id": "B12.9.42", "lines": ["We need not wash our cheeks with bitter tears,", "So long as you still live to lead your peers.”"]}, {"id": "B12.9.43", "lines": ["The noble Giv was grieved to see him pressed,", "Returned on foot, bewildered and distressed."]}, {"id": "B12.9.44", "lines": ["He cried: “This shame has passed all proper frame;", "It pales the faces of the men of fame."]}, {"id": "B12.9.45", "lines": ["Though royal-born and decked in gems and gold,", "Must he insult an army brave and bold?"]}, {"id": "B12.9.46", "lines": ["Though Tus was rash and showed too little care,", "Forood has spread upheaval everywhere."]}, {"id": "B12.9.47", "lines": ["For Siavash we gladly give our breath;", "For him we would not shrink from wounds or death."]}, {"id": "B12.9.48", "lines": ["Yet still we must not overlook this shame,", "Nor leave such foul dishonor free from blame."]}, {"id": "B12.9.49", "lines": ["Zarasp, Nohzar’s noble scion, lies,", "And Rivniz drowned in blood before our eyes."]}, {"id": "B12.9.50", "lines": ["Though Jamshid’s blood and Kay Qobad’s mind he claim,", "Through ignorance he lit war’s shameful flame.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.1", "lines": ["Giv armed himself in hurried wrath and pride,", "And climbed the mountain up its rocky side."]}, {"id": "B12.10.2", "lines": ["Like a wild ram that vaults through broken stone,", "He came before young Forood all alone."]}, {"id": "B12.10.3", "lines": ["At sight of Giv, Forood a cold sigh drew,", "Then turned to Tokhvar, asking what he knew:"]}, {"id": "B12.10.4", "lines": ["“These warriors cannot tell descent from rise;", "The road of war lies hidden from their eyes."]}, {"id": "B12.10.5", "lines": ["Each warrior braver than the last appears,", "Their forms shine like the sun through battle-spears."]}, {"id": "B12.10.6", "lines": ["Yet wisdom fails the chief who holds command;", "A witless head leaves but a corpse to stand."]}, {"id": "B12.10.7", "lines": ["I think their vengeance now shall fail outright", "Unless Khosrow himself comes forth to fight."]}, {"id": "B12.10.8", "lines": ["Then side by side we may avenge our sire,", "And turn on Turan all our kindled fire."]}, {"id": "B12.10.9", "lines": ["But tell me now what noble horseman nears,", "Whose hand and sword give warriors cause for tears.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.10", "lines": ["Then Tokhvar cast his gaze across the plain,", "And answered him in measured, somber strain:"]}, {"id": "B12.10.11", "lines": ["“That raging dragon sweeps across the field;", "Birds fall before his breath, their flight is sealed."]}, {"id": "B12.10.12", "lines": ["He bound your grandfather Piran in chains,", "And smashed two Turanian forces on the plains."]}, {"id": "B12.10.13", "lines": ["Full many children has he fatherless left,", "Through mount and stream and wilderness he cleft."]}, {"id": "B12.10.14", "lines": ["Full many fathers mourn the sons he slew,", "And lion-necks beneath his charger knew."]}, {"id": "B12.10.15", "lines": ["It was this warrior brought your brother home,", "Across the Jihun where no boat could roam."]}, {"id": "B12.10.16", "lines": ["Men call him Giv; when battle ranks draw near,", "An elephant, a Nile in flood, men fear."]}, {"id": "B12.10.17", "lines": ["When you secure the thumbstall on your hand,", "Your arrow cannot pierce his iron band."]}, {"id": "B12.10.18", "lines": ["He wears Siavash’s jowshan in the fight;", "Your arrowhead will strike but fail to bite."]}, {"id": "B12.10.19", "lines": ["So turn your arrow toward his charging steed;", "Against the horse your shaft may well succeed."]}, {"id": "B12.10.20", "lines": ["Then Giv may stagger backward from the fray,", "Shield at his neck, on foot like Tus that day.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.21", "lines": ["Young Forood strung his bow and held it calm,", "Then rubbed its rounded grip within his palm."]}, {"id": "B12.10.22", "lines": ["He loosed the shaft and struck brave Giv’s great horse", "Full in the breast with overwhelming force."]}, {"id": "B12.10.23", "lines": ["Giv tumbled down and hastened from the fight;", "Then laughter rose from Sepid Kooh’s height."]}, {"id": "B12.10.24", "lines": ["Giv’s spirit shrank beneath the mocking cries,", "Yet all the chiefs approached with grave replies:"]}, {"id": "B12.10.25", "lines": ["“All praise to Yazdan! You are safe and sound;", "Your horse is wounded, but you stay unbound.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.26", "lines": ["Then Bijan hurried to his father’s side,", "And spoke rash words in wounded, angry pride:"]}, {"id": "B12.10.27", "lines": ["“My father, great lion-queller famed for might,", "Whose strength can turn war elephants in flight!"]}, {"id": "B12.10.28", "lines": ["Why should one mounted youth behold your back?", "Your hand once formed war’s soul in each attack."]}, {"id": "B12.10.29", "lines": ["A Turanian youth unhorsed you with one shot,", "Like a drunkard, you abandoned the spot!”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.30", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “The instant fell my steed,", "I should have died as honor’s laws decreed.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.31", "lines": ["He spoke in savage tones and burning ire;", "At once young Bijan turned away from sire."]}, {"id": "B12.10.32", "lines": ["Then Giv in fury at Prince Bijan’s jest", "Lashed with his whip across the young man’s crest."]}, {"id": "B12.10.33", "lines": ["He cried: “Did no one teach you, reckless youth,", "That war requires reflection, judgment, truth?"]}, {"id": "B12.10.34", "lines": ["You lack all prudence, foresight, wit, and thought;", "Such reckless speech brings punishment when wrought!”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.35", "lines": ["Prince Bijan burned beneath his father’s blame,", "And swore by the Creator’s holy name:"]}, {"id": "B12.10.36", "lines": ["“I shall not strip the saddle from my steed", "Till Zarasp is avenged, or death fulfills the deed.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.37", "lines": ["He turned away with sorrow in his heart,", "While thoughts of vengeance tore his peace apart."]}, {"id": "B12.10.38", "lines": ["Then Bijan went to Gostaham and said:", "“Lend me a mountain horse with fearless tread,"]}, {"id": "B12.10.39", "lines": ["One strong and swift enough to reach the crest,", "So I may put that mountain youth to test."]}, {"id": "B12.10.40", "lines": ["A Turanian youth stands high upon the height;", "The ranks look on; I burn to meet in fight.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.41", "lines": ["But wise Gostaham replied: “This course is wrong;", "Do not ascend the mountainside headlong."]}, {"id": "B12.10.42", "lines": ["The world has rise and fall and open ground;", "We still must journey past this mountain bound."]}, {"id": "B12.10.43", "lines": ["Of horses fit to bear a mail-clad chief,", "But two remain; to lose one brings me grief."]}, {"id": "B12.10.44", "lines": ["Not one its equal could I ever find,", "In color, gait, great strength, or height combined."]}, {"id": "B12.10.45", "lines": ["Zarasp, a warrior mighty in command,", "And brave Rivniz lie dead upon the land."]}, {"id": "B12.10.46", "lines": ["Even Tus, who counts the world as dust,", "Retreated, shaken in his pride and trust."]}, {"id": "B12.10.47", "lines": ["Your father, lion-hunter, takes no care", "How turning heavens wheel through upper air."]}, {"id": "B12.10.48", "lines": ["They turned away, hearts darkened by the fight;", "No man could master such a flinty height."]}, {"id": "B12.10.49", "lines": ["With vulture’s wings, or homa’s flight, one might", "Reach that high gate no man can climb outright.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.50", "lines": ["Then Bijan answered: “Do not break my heart,", "Nor rob my arms of strength before I start."]}, {"id": "B12.10.51", "lines": ["I swore by moon, by Judge of earth and sky,", "And by the Shah’s bright diadem on high,"]}, {"id": "B12.10.52", "lines": ["That I shall either perish where I stand,", "Or take revenge for Zarasp by my hand.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.53", "lines": ["Then Gostaham replied: “This rage is wrong;", "Wise judgment does not sanction wrath so strong.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.54", "lines": ["Bijan said: “Then I will go to face the foe,", "And take revenge for that destroying blow.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.55", "lines": ["Then Gostaham replied, “I would defend", "Each hair upon your head until the end."]}, {"id": "B12.10.56", "lines": ["Had I a hundred thousand steeds in line,", "Their manes and tails adorned with jewels fine,"]}, {"id": "B12.10.57", "lines": ["No horse, no treasure, life, nor gorz I spare;", "Nor sword would I withhold from any share."]}, {"id": "B12.10.58", "lines": ["Go choose among my horses one to ride;", "Saddle it; if it dies, let that abide.”"]}, {"id": "B12.10.59", "lines": ["One long-built charger, wolf-like, tall, stood near;", "They bound its bargostvan as battle gear."]}, {"id": "B12.10.60", "lines": ["Giv thought of brave Forood and all his deeds,", "And burned to see such headlong acts proceed."]}, {"id": "B12.10.61", "lines": ["He summoned Gostaham and spoke at length,", "With many tales of youth and headlong strength."]}, {"id": "B12.10.62", "lines": ["Siavash’s jowshan and his royal helm", "He sent Bijan, to help him overwhelm."]}, {"id": "B12.10.63", "lines": ["When Gostaham had brought the armor near,", "Bijan encased himself in battle gear."]}, {"id": "B12.10.64", "lines": ["Swift through the dust, he mounted and was gone,", "Toward Sepid Kooh, with vengeance driving on."]}, {"id": "B12.11.1", "lines": ["Forood said to Tokhvar: “Another chief", "Has climbed the mountain, bold in his belief."]}, {"id": "B12.11.2", "lines": ["Look forth and tell me who this man may be,", "And who shall mourn this warrior slain by me.”"]}, {"id": "B12.11.3", "lines": ["That master of wise speech made this reply:", "“No warrior in all Iran with him can vie."]}, {"id": "B12.11.4", "lines": ["He is Giv’s son, Bijan, a lion brave,", "Victorious where the battle-banners wave."]}, {"id": "B12.11.5", "lines": ["Giv has no other son; this youth is dear", "Beyond all wealth and life his heart holds near."]}, {"id": "B12.11.6", "lines": ["Strike at his horse, but spare the rider’s life,", "And do not bring Prince Khosrow grief through strife."]}, {"id": "B12.11.7", "lines": ["Now Bijan wears Siavash’s jowshan too,", "Against whose rings no arrowhead breaks through."]}, {"id": "B12.11.8", "lines": ["Giv bound the armor firmly, plate on plate;", "No arrow, javelin, can pierce its weight."]}, {"id": "B12.11.9", "lines": ["Afoot he still can wage a deadly fight;", "You are no match for him in open might."]}, {"id": "B12.11.10", "lines": ["Behold, he grasps an adamantine blade;", "Against such steel no easy charge is made.”"]}, {"id": "B12.11.11", "lines": ["Forood’s shaft struck Bijan’s charger deep;", "It crashed as though condemned to endless sleep."]}, {"id": "B12.11.12", "lines": ["When Bijan freed himself, he climbed the height,", "His sword in hand, and called Forood to fight:"]}, {"id": "B12.11.13", "lines": ["“Stay, valiant horseman! Watch a lion rise;", "See how unhorsed men still pursue the prize."]}, {"id": "B12.11.14", "lines": ["True warriors, though unhorsed, return to fray;", "With Indian sword in hand they force their way."]}, {"id": "B12.11.15", "lines": ["Wait now for me, and I shall make it clear", "That every thought of war will turn to fear.”"]}, {"id": "B12.11.16", "lines": ["Forood above grew angered in his pride", "Because brave Bijan would not turn aside."]}, {"id": "B12.11.17", "lines": ["Again Forood shot down a shaft in wrath;", "Bijan raised high his shield across its path."]}, {"id": "B12.11.18", "lines": ["The arrow pierced the shield; the jowshan held;", "Still Bijan climbed, by nothing stopped or quelled."]}, {"id": "B12.11.19", "lines": ["He reached the summit, drawing forth his blade;", "Across the crest his fierce advance he made."]}, {"id": "B12.11.20", "lines": ["Forood turned back; the ramparts rang with cries,", "As Bijan pressed behind him toward the rise."]}, {"id": "B12.11.21", "lines": ["With sharpened sword, Bijan pursued his flight,", "And slashed the bargostvan with all his might."]}, {"id": "B12.11.22", "lines": ["The noble horse collapsed upon the ground;", "Forood reached the fortress as cries rang round."]}, {"id": "B12.11.23", "lines": ["The garrison slammed shut the gate, and rained", "Down stones to keep the warrior restrained."]}, {"id": "B12.11.24", "lines": ["Bijan perceived no place for further stay,", "And cried: “O chief renowned in war’s array!"]}, {"id": "B12.11.25", "lines": ["Though horseman, warrior, prince of noble name,", "You fled one man on foot and felt no shame?"]}, {"id": "B12.11.26", "lines": ["Shame stains the heart and hand of brave Forood!”", "Then from that field he turned in wrathful mood."]}, {"id": "B12.11.27", "lines": ["He came to Tus and said: “Who meets this chief", "Is lion of the plain beyond belief."]}, {"id": "B12.11.28", "lines": ["Though flinty mountains melt beneath his dart,", "No seasoned chief should marvel at his art."]}, {"id": "B12.11.29", "lines": ["Beyond such prowess measurement must fail;", "No higher bound can weigh him on the scale.”"]}, {"id": "B12.11.30", "lines": ["Then Tus swore by Him, Yazdan of all:", "“I shall send dust to sun from this high wall."]}, {"id": "B12.11.31", "lines": ["To avenge Zarasp, Pahlevan of renown,", "I shall strike that hostile Turanian down."]}, {"id": "B12.11.32", "lines": ["His blood shall soak the stones when he lies dead,", "And stain the pale rocks deep with coral red.”"]}, {"id": "B12.12.1", "lines": ["When shining sunlight vanished in the west,", "And night led forth its armies from their rest,"]}, {"id": "B12.12.2", "lines": ["A thousand guards stood armed within the hold,", "From Kalat came a rider, swift and bold."]}, {"id": "B12.12.3", "lines": ["The gate was barred; the jaras rang outright,", "Its warning zang resounded through the night."]}, {"id": "B12.12.4", "lines": ["Then Jarireh lay upon her honored bed,", "While night with grief and pain together spread."]}, {"id": "B12.12.5", "lines": ["She dreamed a blazing flame climbed through the sky", "Before her cherished son, it burned on high."]}, {"id": "B12.12.6", "lines": ["It lit Sepid Kooh with a dreadful fire,", "And fortress and attendants fed the pyre."]}, {"id": "B12.12.7", "lines": ["She woke in pain, her spirit filled with dread,", "And climbed the walls, the vision in her head."]}, {"id": "B12.12.8", "lines": ["She saw spears, jowshans, crowding all the hill;", "Blood filled her face; smoke made her heart grow chill."]}, {"id": "B12.12.9", "lines": ["She hurried then to Forood in alarm,", "And cried to wake him from impending harm:"]}, {"id": "B12.12.10", "lines": ["“Rise from your sleep, my son! The stars on high", "Bring ruin down beneath the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "B12.12.11", "lines": ["The mountain swarms with foes in ranks combined;", "The gates with spears and jowshan all are lined.”"]}, {"id": "B12.12.12", "lines": ["He answered her: “Why grieve? What can you cure?", "When comes my time, no charm can it secure."]}, {"id": "B12.12.13", "lines": ["My father too was murdered in his youth;", "My ruined fate now follows his in truth."]}, {"id": "B12.12.14", "lines": ["Gurvi Zereh dealt my father his end,", "And Bijan now comes for my life to rend."]}, {"id": "B12.12.15", "lines": ["Yet like a mountain ram I fight and die,", "And seek no zanhar from Iran,” his cry."]}, {"id": "B12.12.16", "lines": ["He handed helmets, jowshan all around", "To all the troops assembled on the ground."]}, {"id": "B12.12.17", "lines": ["A Roman helmet fastened on his head,", "A Roman khaftan round his frame he spread."]}, {"id": "B12.12.18", "lines": ["He took the Kayan bow prepared to fight,", "And watched the final hours of grieving night."]}, {"id": "B12.12.19", "lines": ["The shining sun climbed upward through the sky,", "And showed its radiant face to every eye."]}, {"id": "B12.12.20", "lines": ["The chiefs cried out; great gorzes whirled around,", "While battle thunder shook the mountain ground."]}, {"id": "B12.12.21", "lines": ["The koust and karnay thundered through the fray,", "With Indian daray, sarghin ney at play."]}, {"id": "B12.12.22", "lines": ["Then Forood from the castle ramparts came", "With all his valiant Turanians, hearts aflame."]}, {"id": "B12.12.23", "lines": ["The horsemen veiled Sepid Kooh from sight,", "Its crest became a sea of pitch-black night."]}, {"id": "B12.12.24", "lines": ["Thick flights of arrows blackened all the height,", "And left no open ground for men to fight."]}, {"id": "B12.12.25", "lines": ["The rocks and stones brought havoc to the steeds,", "While both sides strained through hard and bloody deeds."]}, {"id": "B12.12.26", "lines": ["Then Tus advanced with shield and falchion drawn,", "And led his men himself at break of dawn."]}, {"id": "B12.12.27", "lines": ["The chiefs of Iran followed close behind;", "Afoot they climbed, in battle ranks aligned."]}, {"id": "B12.12.28", "lines": ["They battled on until the noon was high;", "By then Forood’s brave troops were doomed to die."]}, {"id": "B12.12.29", "lines": ["The hills and valleys filled with heaps of slain;", "His star of fortune sank behind the plain."]}, {"id": "B12.12.30", "lines": ["Iran’s troops marveled at his might and fame;", "No lion half so fierce before them came."]}, {"id": "B12.12.31", "lines": ["Yet battle pressed him hard on every side;", "And fortune turned against his youthful pride."]}, {"id": "B12.12.32", "lines": ["No Turanian rider stayed beside;", "Alone he would not face the battle-tide."]}, {"id": "B12.12.33", "lines": ["At last he turned and raced toward the hold;", "Then Rohham and brave Bijan, fierce and bold,"]}, {"id": "B12.12.34", "lines": ["Charged him from high and low with deadly speed,", "And sought to cut him off in time of need."]}, {"id": "B12.12.35", "lines": ["When Bijan on the lower ground appeared,", "Rein light and stirrup heavy, Forood neared."]}, {"id": "B12.12.36", "lines": ["The youth beheld his helmet through the dust,", "Then seized his gorz with fury fierce and just."]}, {"id": "B12.12.37", "lines": ["He rushed like some great lion toward his foe,", "Unknowing what the heavens would bestow."]}, {"id": "B12.12.38", "lines": ["He thought to strike Prince Bijan on the head,", "And smash both helm and skull and leave him dead."]}, {"id": "B12.12.39", "lines": ["Bijan was staggered by the blow, struck blind;", "He reeled, the world gone dark within his mind."]}, {"id": "B12.12.40", "lines": ["Then Rohham from behind the battle cried,", "And drew his Indian sword in wrathful pride."]}, {"id": "B12.12.41", "lines": ["He struck the lion-youth upon the shoulder;", "Arm and shoulder fell; his blood ran colder."]}, {"id": "B12.12.42", "lines": ["Prince Forood cried; his charger thundered on,", "Though arm and shoulder from his frame were gone."]}, {"id": "B12.12.43", "lines": ["Then Bijan closed beside the fortress wall,", "And hamstrung Forood’s horse and made it fall."]}, {"id": "B12.12.44", "lines": ["Then Forood, wounded, went afoot inside,", "A few faithful attendants at his side."]}, {"id": "B12.12.45", "lines": ["They quickly barred the gate against the foe;", "Alas for Forood, marked for death and woe!"]}, {"id": "B12.12.46", "lines": ["His mother and the women gathered near,", "And all embraced him, shedding bitter tears."]}, {"id": "B12.12.47", "lines": ["They laid him gently on the ivory throne;", "His season for the crown and world had flown."]}, {"id": "B12.12.48", "lines": ["His mother and the women tore their hair,", "And ripped their musky tresses in despair."]}, {"id": "B12.12.49", "lines": ["The throne lamented; all the fortress cried,", "And grief consumed the women at his side."]}, {"id": "B12.12.50", "lines": ["Then with a fading glance and failing breath,", "He turned to them while drawing near to death."]}, {"id": "B12.12.51", "lines": ["With one last effort, as his spirit fled,", "He forced his failing lips to speak and said:"]}, {"id": "B12.12.52", "lines": ["“No wonder that you tear your hair and weep;", "The Iranians soon will storm this mountain keep."]}, {"id": "B12.12.53", "lines": ["They will make captives of the women here,", "And ruin wall and mount when they draw near."]}, {"id": "B12.12.54", "lines": ["Let all whose hearts still burn for love of me", "Leap from the battlements and perish free."]}, {"id": "B12.12.55", "lines": ["Let none become Prince Bijan’s share or prize;", "A little time remains before life dies."]}, {"id": "B12.12.56", "lines": ["My body and my spirit fall to pain;", "What use are girls or treasure that remain?”"]}, {"id": "B12.12.57", "lines": ["He spoke; his cheeks grew pale as life withdrew,", "His grieving spirit from his body flew."]}, {"id": "B12.12.58", "lines": ["This drunken wheel, a juggler in its play,", "With seventy hands deceives mankind each day."]}, {"id": "B12.12.59", "lines": ["At times by khanjar, sword, by wind or cloud,", "Through worthless hands it kills amid the crowd."]}, {"id": "B12.12.60", "lines": ["At times gives throne and crown and treasure-gain;", "At times gives grief, toil, shame, the pit, and pain."]}, {"id": "B12.12.61", "lines": ["Each mortal bears whatever fate may give;", "Straitened in heart, with empty hands I live."]}, {"id": "B12.12.62", "lines": ["Had wisdom’s man not entered mortal fold,", "He would not know this world’s fierce heat and cold."]}, {"id": "B12.12.63", "lines": ["We live deprived, our cherished hopes denied;", "This life itself gives cause for tears beside."]}, {"id": "B12.12.64", "lines": ["At last the dust becomes our final bed;", "Alas for Forood’s heart, his mind, his tread."]}, {"id": "B12.13.1", "lines": ["The attendants climbed the rooftop in despair,", "And leaped to death while grief still choked the air."]}, {"id": "B12.13.2", "lines": ["Jarireh kindled fire with her own hands,", "And burned the treasures gathered through the lands."]}, {"id": "B12.13.3", "lines": ["Then sword in hand she barred the stable door,", "Where stood the Arab steeds she prized before."]}, {"id": "B12.13.4", "lines": ["She hamstrung them and ripped their bodies wide;", "While bloody tears ran down her cheeks beside."]}, {"id": "B12.13.5", "lines": ["With khanjar blue as water, she drew near,", "And pressed both cheeks against her son so dear."]}, {"id": "B12.13.6", "lines": ["She ripped her belly open with the blade,", "And on her slaughtered son her body laid."]}, {"id": "B12.13.7", "lines": ["The Iranians broke the fortress gates apart,", "Prepared to sack the hold with ruthless heart."]}, {"id": "B12.13.8", "lines": ["When Bahram neared the fortress where he lay,", "His heart was torn apart in deep dismay."]}, {"id": "B12.13.9", "lines": ["Then to Iran’s assembled chiefs he cried:", "“More wretched than Siavash has Forood died!"]}, {"id": "B12.13.10", "lines": ["No servant of Siavash struck him dead,", "Nor household hand brought ruin to his bed."]}, {"id": "B12.13.11", "lines": ["Nor did his mother meet her death that day;", "Yet hold and household burned and passed away."]}, {"id": "B12.13.12", "lines": ["Fear the Creator and Time’s turning wheel;", "The wrong you do, its circling course will feel."]}, {"id": "B12.13.13", "lines": ["Heaven’s claw is long against the unjust man;", "It turns no loving face toward such a plan."]}, {"id": "B12.13.14", "lines": ["Will you not feel deep shame before Khosrow,", "Who warned you well before he let you go?"]}, {"id": "B12.13.15", "lines": ["He sent you forth Siavash’s blood to claim,", "And gave you all much counsel before this shame."]}, {"id": "B12.13.16", "lines": ["When Khosrow learns his brother’s blood was shed,", "All bonds of shame and honor will lie dead."]}, {"id": "B12.13.17", "lines": ["From Rohham and keen-minded Bijan’s hand,", "No worthy deed will rise throughout the land.”"]}, {"id": "B12.13.18", "lines": ["Then Tus approached; the koust resounded wide,", "Along the rugged road by Kalat’s side."]}, {"id": "B12.13.19", "lines": ["Gudarz and Giv beside the warrior rode,", "Along with warriors on the mountain road."]}, {"id": "B12.13.20", "lines": ["They marched toward Sepid Kooh in stern array,", "And neared Anboh along the mountain way."]}, {"id": "B12.13.21", "lines": ["But when they reached the throne where Forood lay,", "Jarireh lay beside him, cold and gray."]}, {"id": "B12.13.22", "lines": ["Beside the dead sat Bahram, eyes with tears,", "His heart still filled with anger, grief, and fears."]}, {"id": "B12.13.23", "lines": ["Across from him stood Zangeh, Shavaran’s son,", "With warriors gathered round him, every one."]}, {"id": "B12.13.24", "lines": ["While on the ivory throne the hero lay,", "Moon-faced and tall as teak, though cold as clay,"]}, {"id": "B12.13.25", "lines": ["He seemed Siavash upon a golden throne,", "With jowshan, sword, and gorz and girdle shown."]}, {"id": "B12.13.26", "lines": ["Then Giv and Gudarz wept beside the bier,", "With Gorgin, Bahram, shedding bitter tear."]}, {"id": "B12.13.27", "lines": ["Then Tus’s face filled up with liver-blood,", "For son and prince his tears became a flood."]}, {"id": "B12.13.28", "lines": ["Then Gudarz spoke to Tus and Giv that day,", "With all the famed sepahbods in array:"]}, {"id": "B12.13.29", "lines": ["“Rashness bears repentance as its fruit;", "Sow no such seed again through rash dispute."]}, {"id": "B12.13.30", "lines": ["Rash haste becomes no sepahbod or chief;", "A leader ruled by fury comes to grief."]}, {"id": "B12.13.31", "lines": ["Through haste you cast from earth a Kayan heir,", "With farr, broad shoulders, noble form and air."]}, {"id": "B12.13.32", "lines": ["You sent brave Zarasp, Nohzar-born, to doom,", "A noble warrior cut down in his bloom."]}, {"id": "B12.13.33", "lines": ["And rashness struck down Rivniz with its sting;", "No evil did misfortune fail to bring."]}, {"id": "B12.13.34", "lines": ["Honar without wisdom in a heart gone wild", "Is like a rusted sword, its edge defiled.”"]}, {"id": "B12.13.35", "lines": ["As they rebuked him, Tus dissolved in tears;", "His rage diminished with his grief and fears."]}, {"id": "B12.13.36", "lines": ["He answered them: “Against ill fortune’s reign,", "No man escapes affliction, toil, and pain.”"]}, {"id": "B12.13.37", "lines": ["He ordered then his warriors to prepare", "A royal tomb upon the mountain, rare;"]}, {"id": "B12.13.38", "lines": ["Within they placed a golden throne, and laid", "A golden girdle and a gold brocade."]}, {"id": "B12.13.39", "lines": ["They gathered flowers, musk, camphor, and wine,", "And set them round the prince in solemn line."]}, {"id": "B12.13.40", "lines": ["With camphor they preserved his noble head,", "Rosewater, musk, perfume across him spread."]}, {"id": "B12.13.41", "lines": ["They set him on the throne in solemn state;", "The lion-hearted prince passed on to fate."]}, {"id": "B12.13.42", "lines": ["Beside him then they laid Rivniz the brave,", "And noble Zarasp, fallen to the grave."]}, {"id": "B12.13.43", "lines": ["Then Tus, whose beard was white as camphor’s hue,", "Poured streams of blood from eyes across it too."]}, {"id": "B12.13.44", "lines": ["So passes all! However long we stay,", "Lion and elephant must pass away."]}, {"id": "B12.13.45", "lines": ["Even stone and anvil fear death’s decree;", "No fruit nor leaf from death can ever flee."]}, {"id": "B12.14.1", "lines": ["When Tus had ended war with brave Forood,", "He left the heights and marched in martial mood."]}, {"id": "B12.14.2", "lines": ["At Charam then he halted for three days,", "While dust still hung upon the mountain ways."]}, {"id": "B12.14.3", "lines": ["The fourth day shaypur thundered through the land,", "And Tus led forth the ranks at his command."]}, {"id": "B12.14.4", "lines": ["The ney and koust resounded on the plain,", "While ebony darkness veiled each ridge and chain."]}, {"id": "B12.14.5", "lines": ["Whatever troops of Turan met his sight,", "He slew and flung them headlong from the fight."]}, {"id": "B12.14.6", "lines": ["He left the marches empty, stripped and bare,", "No warp or woof remaining anywhere."]}, {"id": "B12.14.7", "lines": ["He reached at last the banks of Kasa Rud,", "And pitched his tents amid the multitude."]}, {"id": "B12.14.8", "lines": ["The earth lay hidden under tents and gear,", "No open stretch of ground was found so near."]}, {"id": "B12.14.9", "lines": ["The tidings reached Turan: “Iran’s array", "Has camped at Kasa Rud in full display.”"]}, {"id": "B12.14.10", "lines": ["Then from the Turanians Palashan came out,", "A shrewd young warrior, fierce beyond all doubt."]}, {"id": "B12.14.11", "lines": ["He rode ahead to view Iran’s great force,", "And count the chiefs’ bright standards on his course."]}, {"id": "B12.14.12", "lines": ["Within the lines there rose an open mound,", "One side left empty, with no troops around."]}, {"id": "B12.14.13", "lines": ["There Giv sat speaking with Bijan his son,", "Of every matter, and he left out none."]}, {"id": "B12.14.14", "lines": ["Palashan’s banner rose along the way,", "Advancing from the Turanian lines that day."]}, {"id": "B12.14.15", "lines": ["Brave Giv unsheathed his sword and said, “I go;", "I see Palashan riding there below."]}, {"id": "B12.14.16", "lines": ["That lion is a horseman famed in fight,", "A valiant chief who trusts his arm and might."]}, {"id": "B12.14.17", "lines": ["I shall cut him down upon the open plain,", "Or bring him bound alive within our train.”"]}, {"id": "B12.14.18", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “My father, hear my plea:", "The Shah bestowed that robe and charge on me."]}, {"id": "B12.14.19", "lines": ["By his command this task is mine to claim,", "And I must meet Palashan in his name.”"]}, {"id": "B12.14.20", "lines": ["Giv answered, “Do not hurry to the fight;", "May Yazdan guard you from that lion’s might."]}, {"id": "B12.14.21", "lines": ["Perhaps you cannot stand against his blow;", "Do not make dark my day by going so."]}, {"id": "B12.14.22", "lines": ["He is a lion; meadow is his lair,", "And fighting men alone become his fare.”"]}, {"id": "B12.14.23", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “Do not disgrace my name", "Before the Shah and tarnish all my fame."]}, {"id": "B12.14.24", "lines": ["Give me Siavash’s jowshan; let me go;", "This leopard I shall hunt and overthrow.”"]}, {"id": "B12.14.25", "lines": ["Then Giv put the jowshan in Bijan’s grasp;", "He fastened tight each ring and scale and clasp."]}, {"id": "B12.14.26", "lines": ["He mounted on a charger swift and bright,", "And rode with spear in hand to seek the fight."]}, {"id": "B12.14.27", "lines": ["Now Palashan had brought a deer to ground,", "And roasted meat while smoke was curling round."]}, {"id": "B12.14.28", "lines": ["He ate beside the fire and kept his bow;", "His horse grazed freely on the grass below."]}, {"id": "B12.14.29", "lines": ["His horse saw Bijan’s charger drawing near,", "Then neighed and snorted loudly in his ear."]}, {"id": "B12.14.30", "lines": ["Then Palashan knew one had come to fight,", "And called aloud to challenge him outright:"]}, {"id": "B12.14.31", "lines": ["“I fell fierce lions, bind the Divs I meet;", "Declare your name; your star shall mourn defeat.”"]}, {"id": "B12.14.32", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “Bijan is my true name,", "An elephant, bronze-bodied, when wars flame."]}, {"id": "B12.14.33", "lines": ["My grandfather, a lion of the fray;", "My father, gallant Giv, still rules the day."]}, {"id": "B12.14.34", "lines": ["You shall behold my prowess in this hour,", "When battle breathes and warriors test their power."]}, {"id": "B12.14.35", "lines": ["Like carrion wolf among the mountain stone,", "You feed on smoke and ash and blood alone."]}, {"id": "B12.14.36", "lines": ["Now bring your warriors down from mountain height,", "And lead them to the hāmun for the fight.”"]}, {"id": "B12.14.37", "lines": ["The Turanian gave no answer, loosed the rein,", "And wind-like drove his charger on the plain."]}, {"id": "B12.14.38", "lines": ["The warriors met with spears in furious thrust,", "And round their charging horses rose dark dust."]}, {"id": "B12.14.39", "lines": ["Their spearheads broke; their swords flashed in their hands,", "Till shattered steel lay scattered on the sands."]}, {"id": "B12.14.40", "lines": ["The riders shook like branches in a gale,", "While blow on blow made helm and armor quail."]}, {"id": "B12.14.41", "lines": ["Their chargers, drowned in sweat, began to reel;", "The warriors’ hearts grew heavy through ordeal."]}, {"id": "B12.14.42", "lines": ["Then both those lions, raging breast to breast,", "Drew forth their heavy gorzes for the test."]}, {"id": "B12.14.43", "lines": ["So battle raged until Bijan cried out,", "His gorz raised high, he gave a thunder-shout."]}, {"id": "B12.14.44", "lines": ["He struck brave Palashan across the waist,", "And broke the spine his jowshan had encased."]}, {"id": "B12.14.45", "lines": ["Helmed, mailed, his corpse fell headlong from the steed;", "Bijan dismounted swiftly for the deed."]}, {"id": "B12.14.46", "lines": ["He cut his head away, then proudly bore", "His arms and charger from the field of war."]}, {"id": "B12.14.47", "lines": ["Meanwhile brave Giv had watched the field in fear,", "And wondered how the battle-wind would veer."]}, {"id": "B12.14.48", "lines": ["He paced and groaned upon the open height,", "Until Bijan’s dust-cloud rose into sight."]}, {"id": "B12.14.49", "lines": ["The youth brought head and jowshan, charger near,", "And laid them down before his father dear."]}, {"id": "B12.14.50", "lines": ["Then Giv replied, his heart released from care:", "“My son, may victory attend you everywhere.”"]}, {"id": "B12.14.51", "lines": ["Then Giv and Bijan, joyful at the deed,", "Rode to the sepahbod’s pavilion at speed."]}, {"id": "B12.14.52", "lines": ["Before Tus they laid Palashan’s severed head,", "His horse, his jowshan, helm, and arms outspread."]}, {"id": "B12.14.53", "lines": ["At Bijan’s triumph Tus grew glad with flame,", "His spirit seemed to leap beyond its frame."]}, {"id": "B12.14.54", "lines": ["He said: “O son, the army’s strength and stay,", "The head of famed men in the Shah’s array,"]}, {"id": "B12.14.55", "lines": ["The Shah’s bright diadem, live glad and high,", "Exalted-hearted under every sky."]}, {"id": "B12.14.56", "lines": ["May evil and the evildoer part", "Forever from your fortune and your heart.”"]}, {"id": "B12.15.1", "lines": ["Then word reached Afrasiab, and it was said:", "“Turan’s broad frontier seems a sea outspread;"]}, {"id": "B12.15.2", "lines": ["Iran’s army reached the Kasa Rud,", "Siavash’s vengeance blackened all they viewed.”"]}, {"id": "B12.15.3", "lines": ["Afrasiab to Piran then declared:", "“Kay Khosrow’s hidden purpose has been bared."]}, {"id": "B12.15.4", "lines": ["Perhaps we may prevent him if we go", "With flags, tabiras, troops against the foe."]}, {"id": "B12.15.5", "lines": ["If not, Iran’s great army will appear,", "And sun and moon no more will shine out clear."]}, {"id": "B12.15.6", "lines": ["Go gather troops from every borderland;", "Few words are needed when the facts command.”"]}, {"id": "B12.15.7", "lines": ["Upon the Iranian side a tempest rose,", "And none gave thought to battle with their foes."]}, {"id": "B12.15.8", "lines": ["A dense cloud came like dust across the sky,", "The cold froze lips to teeth as it swept by."]}, {"id": "B12.15.9", "lines": ["The tents and pavilions froze in white;", "Snow drew a thread across each mountain height."]}, {"id": "B12.15.10", "lines": ["For seven days the earth was lost to sight,", "And vanished underneath the storm’s white might."]}, {"id": "B12.15.11", "lines": ["They found scant food, scant rest, and little sleep;", "And stone-like earth lay frozen hard and deep."]}, {"id": "B12.15.12", "lines": ["They slew and ate their horses in despair;", "And many men and beasts died everywhere."]}, {"id": "B12.15.13", "lines": ["At last no hand or arm had strength to rise;", "The troops lay broken under frozen skies."]}, {"id": "B12.15.14", "lines": ["Upon the eighth, the sun broke through the gray,", "And all the world seemed sea beneath its ray."]}, {"id": "B12.15.15", "lines": ["The troops were mustered; Tus spoke to the force:", "“This hardship has destroyed us on our course."]}, {"id": "B12.15.16", "lines": ["It is best that we depart this cursed ground;", "May Kalat bear the curse that wraps it round,"]}, {"id": "B12.15.17", "lines": ["And Sepid Kooh and Kasa Rud beside;", "May blessing from those lands be all denied.”"]}, {"id": "B12.15.18", "lines": ["Then from the warrior ranks Bahram replied:", "“This truth, sepahbod, stands on every side."]}, {"id": "B12.15.19", "lines": ["You silenced us, then fought Siavash’s son;", "Against our counsel, war we could not shun."]}, {"id": "B12.15.20", "lines": ["Do not make crooked what was straight and clear;", "For one life, see how many vanished here."]}, {"id": "B12.15.21", "lines": ["The buffalo remains within its hide;", "More harm may still be waiting at our side.”"]}, {"id": "B12.15.22", "lines": ["Then Tus replied: “Azargashasp won fame,", "Yet brave Zarasp deserved as great a name."]}, {"id": "B12.15.23", "lines": ["Look through the army, search the ranks around;", "No man like Rivniz now can here be found."]}, {"id": "B12.15.24", "lines": ["Nor was Forood struck guiltless in the fray;", "What fate had written found him on that day."]}, {"id": "B12.15.25", "lines": ["My cup through Rivniz brimmed with milk and wine;", "Though young in form, his words were sage and fine."]}, {"id": "B12.15.26", "lines": ["Now let us speak no further of the dead,", "Nor ask if justly all that blood was shed."]}, {"id": "B12.15.27", "lines": ["Since Iran’s Shah gave Giv, of Gudarz born,", "A robe of honor proudly to be worn,"]}, {"id": "B12.15.28", "lines": ["The hour has come to set the wood alight,", "And raise its flames to heaven through the night."]}, {"id": "B12.15.29", "lines": ["By fire the army’s road may yet be freed.”", "Giv answered, “This is scarce a toil to heed."]}, {"id": "B12.15.30", "lines": ["But if it is a toil, then know it plain:", "No toil is ever borne without its gain.”"]}, {"id": "B12.15.31", "lines": ["Bijan was grieved and said: “I cannot stand", "To see you take this labor from my hand."]}, {"id": "B12.15.32", "lines": ["It must not be that I, still young, stand by,", "While age must bear the toil that youth should try."]}, {"id": "B12.15.33", "lines": ["You raised me amid hardship, want, and need,", "And never hurt me by a word or deed."]}, {"id": "B12.15.34", "lines": ["My hand must take this work; it is not right", "That you should toil while I sit still in sight.”"]}, {"id": "B12.15.35", "lines": ["Giv said, “My son, I took this task in hand;", "Now arms, not age or pity, should command."]}, {"id": "B12.15.36", "lines": ["Do not be grieved that I should go before;", "My breath can burn a flinty mountain’s core.”"]}, {"id": "B12.15.37", "lines": ["He crossed the Kasa Rud with toil and pain,", "Through ice and snow that veiled the frozen plain."]}, {"id": "B12.15.38", "lines": ["When he had reached the barricade of wood,", "Its breadth and length beyond all measure stood."]}, {"id": "B12.15.39", "lines": ["He lit the arrowhead and shot it high;", "It struck the pile and flames consumed the sky."]}, {"id": "B12.15.40", "lines": ["For three full weeks, heat, flame, wind, smoke became", "A barrier through the wood no force could tame."]}, {"id": "B12.15.41", "lines": ["But when the fourth week came, the army crossed,", "For fire and water both their force had lost."]}, {"id": "B12.16.1", "lines": ["When Tus had set his warriors on their guard,", "He left the fires and marched to Gorugard."]}, {"id": "B12.16.2", "lines": ["The army marched in ordered ranks ahead,", "And tents on hill and plain were widely spread."]}, {"id": "B12.16.3", "lines": ["They camped with vigilance on every side,", "And sent their scouts abroad both far and wide."]}, {"id": "B12.16.4", "lines": ["There dwelt at Gorugard a warrior bold,", "Tazhav the warrior renowned of old."]}, {"id": "B12.16.5", "lines": ["A lion-fighter, terrible in fight,", "His herds ranged mountain slopes from height to height."]}, {"id": "B12.16.6", "lines": ["Then word arrived: “Iran’s great force draws near;", "Drive off the herds while all the roads are clear.”"]}, {"id": "B12.16.7", "lines": ["He sent a warrior swiftly on his way", "To Afrasiab’s herdsman without delay."]}, {"id": "B12.16.8", "lines": ["Kabuda was his name, a man of skill,", "Well suited to the task and Tazhav’s will."]}, {"id": "B12.16.9", "lines": ["Tazhav addressed him: “Go, unseen, tonight,", "And find where Iran camps beyond our sight."]}, {"id": "B12.16.10", "lines": ["Discover how immense their army stands,", "And which crowned chiefs and standards rule their bands."]}, {"id": "B12.16.11", "lines": ["By night I mean to strike Iran’s array,", "And make each mountain plain amid the fray.”"]}, {"id": "B12.16.12", "lines": ["When darkness spread its mantle on the plain,", "Kabuda came like a black Div toward the train."]}, {"id": "B12.16.13", "lines": ["That night Bahram stood watch before the band,", "Who could snare a tusker’s head with his kamand."]}, {"id": "B12.16.14", "lines": ["Kabuda’s charger suddenly gave cry,", "Bahram stood still and heard the sound nearby."]}, {"id": "B12.16.15", "lines": ["He strung his bow and mounted with all speed,", "Then pressed ahead upon his charging steed."]}, {"id": "B12.16.16", "lines": ["Without a word he loosed an arrow straight,", "Though darkness hid the horseman’s form and gait."]}, {"id": "B12.16.17", "lines": ["The shaft struck hard against Kabuda’s belt;", "His face turned black; he fell, cried zanhar, and knelt. "]}, {"id": "B12.16.18", "lines": ["Then Bahram said, “Speak truth: who sent you here?", "Whom would you have slain? Make your purpose clear.”"]}, {"id": "B12.16.19", "lines": ["Kabuda said: “Grant zanhar; let me live,", "And every answer that you seek I will give."]}, {"id": "B12.16.20", "lines": ["My master is Tazhav; I serve his will.", "He sent me here to scout your camp and hill."]}, {"id": "B12.16.21", "lines": ["Spare me from death, and I shall show the road", "That leads directly to Tazhav’s abode.”"]}, {"id": "B12.16.22", "lines": ["Bahram replied: “Tazhav against my might", "Is bull against a rending lion in fight.”"]}, {"id": "B12.16.23", "lines": ["Then Bahram drew his khanjar, struck him dead,", "And bound to royal saddle-straps the head."]}, {"id": "B12.16.24", "lines": ["He cast the head before Iran’s array;", "Kabuda was no famed rider of the fray."]}, {"id": "B12.16.25", "lines": ["The sun raised high its standard in the blue;", "Tazhav grew troubled; ill had struck, he knew."]}, {"id": "B12.16.26", "lines": ["The rooster crowed; the larks proclaimed the day,", "Yet still Kabuda did not come their way."]}, {"id": "B12.16.27", "lines": ["He summoned all the men who formed his band,", "And swiftly led them forth at his command."]}, {"id": "B12.16.28", "lines": ["Tazhav marched forth, his army armed to fight;", "Iran’s watchmen raised the alarm at sight."]}, {"id": "B12.17.1", "lines": ["When sunlight raised its banner on the plain,", "Its khanjar left night’s breath a violet stain."]}, {"id": "B12.17.2", "lines": ["Tazhav the chieftain led his warriors out,", "While from the watchmen rose the warning shout:"]}, {"id": "B12.17.3", "lines": ["“Turanian banners advance to fight!", "A leopard marks the standard raised in sight.”"]}, {"id": "B12.17.4", "lines": ["Then noble Giv rode forward from the ranks,", "With Iran’s bravest warriors at his flanks."]}, {"id": "B12.17.5", "lines": ["He sternly asked the stranger’s name and race,", "And what proud lineage gave him rank and place."]}, {"id": "B12.17.6", "lines": ["He said: “O you who love the clash and fray,", "Why bring so few to face our force today?"]}, {"id": "B12.17.7", "lines": ["Have you come here where fierce nahangs appear,", "Whose claws cut warriors down and jowshans shear?”"]}, {"id": "B12.17.8", "lines": ["Bold Tazhav answered, fearless, without pause:", "“I have a lion’s heart, a lion’s claws."]}, {"id": "B12.17.9", "lines": ["Tazhav am I; the world has heard my name,", "At every breath they grant me what I claim."]}, {"id": "B12.17.10", "lines": ["By birth and blood Iranian am I,", "From warriors famed beneath the wheeling sky."]}, {"id": "B12.17.11", "lines": ["By Afrasiab’s will I guard this place,", "His marzban, wed within the royal race.”"]}, {"id": "B12.17.12", "lines": ["Then Giv replied: “Do not speak in that tone;", "Such words will darken honor you have known."]}, {"id": "B12.17.13", "lines": ["Who leaves Iran for Turan’s alien air,", "Unless blood and colocynth are his fare?"]}, {"id": "B12.17.14", "lines": ["If you command these marches by his side,", "Why bring so few with you to stem our tide?"]}, {"id": "B12.17.15", "lines": ["Do not take this small band into the field,", "Nor rush against the brave with sword and shield."]}, {"id": "B12.17.16", "lines": ["For I who speak, long seasoned in the fight,", "Have brought proud marzbans down from all their might."]}, {"id": "B12.17.17", "lines": ["If you and all your troops accept my plea,", "Turn back toward Iran and then come with me."]}, {"id": "B12.17.18", "lines": ["Go first to Tus, sepahbod of our force,", "And let his judgment set your future course."]}, {"id": "B12.17.19", "lines": ["I shall obtain rich gifts and wealth in aid:", "A robe, attendants, and a horse arrayed.”"]}, {"id": "B12.17.20", "lines": ["Tazhav, deceitful, boastfully replied:", "“No hand shall bring my standard down,” he cried."]}, {"id": "B12.17.21", "lines": ["“Here throne and signet, treasure, crown, and state,", "With servants and an army on me wait."]}, {"id": "B12.17.22", "lines": ["Such border-rule as Afrasiab has known", "No man in Iran can dream to call his own."]}, {"id": "B12.17.23", "lines": ["My herds of mares run loose on Gorugard’s plain;", "Their swift-foot coursers range without a rein."]}, {"id": "B12.17.24", "lines": ["Do not regard my numbers; judge my blow,", "And see the gorz that hangs from saddle-bow."]}, {"id": "B12.17.25", "lines": ["Today I crush your men beneath my blows,", "Till you repent the hour you met your foes.”"]}, {"id": "B12.17.26", "lines": ["Then Bijan cried aloud before the field:", "“O wise sepahbod, never known to yield!"]}, {"id": "B12.17.27", "lines": ["O noble Pahlevan of seasoned fame,", "Why speak so mildly to this man of shame?"]}, {"id": "B12.17.28", "lines": ["Age has not dimmed the strength you bore before;", "Why give him counsel, friendship, and still more?"]}, {"id": "B12.17.29", "lines": ["Our trade is sword and gorz in war’s red hour,", "To tear out hearts and break the foeman’s power.”"]}, {"id": "B12.17.30", "lines": ["He spurred his horse; the battle-cry arose;", "Men shouldered sword and gorz against their foes."]}, {"id": "B12.17.31", "lines": ["A cloud of blackened dust surged through the plain,", "Till sunlight vanished, swallowed in its stain."]}, {"id": "B12.17.32", "lines": ["The world grew dim as in a winter storm;", "No moon or star retained its shining form."]}, {"id": "B12.17.33", "lines": ["Bold Giv, who once could rob the sky of light,", "Stood in the center of the savage fight."]}, {"id": "B12.17.34", "lines": ["And Bijan, deft of hand and swift in deed,", "Made battle his feast-place as he took the lead."]}, {"id": "B12.17.35", "lines": ["Tazhav, well seasoned in the ways of war,", "Rode crowned, a match for lions at the fore."]}, {"id": "B12.17.36", "lines": ["Beside him rode brave Arzhang fierce in fight,", "And Mardvi, lion-hearted in his might."]}, {"id": "B12.17.37", "lines": ["They never wearied of the clash that day,", "Yet little profit came from all the fray."]}, {"id": "B12.17.38", "lines": ["Brave Arzhang soon withdrew himself from strife;", "Most Turanians there were robbed of life."]}, {"id": "B12.17.39", "lines": ["Then Fortune turned her countenance in scorn,", "And Tazhav fled, defeated and forlorn."]}, {"id": "B12.17.40", "lines": ["Fierce Bijan chased him hard with eager cries,", "A spear uplifted, flashing to the skies."]}, {"id": "B12.17.41", "lines": ["Like a mad elephant he stormed in chase,", "And roared behind Tazhav across the space."]}, {"id": "B12.17.42", "lines": ["His spear struck Tazhav’s waist, a sharp, hard stroke,", "And all his strength within him failed and broke."]}, {"id": "B12.17.43", "lines": ["The warrior reeled beneath the savage blow,", "Yet Roman jowshan held against the foe."]}, {"id": "B12.17.44", "lines": ["The fastenings held firm and did not part;", "Then Bijan cast aside his useless dart."]}, {"id": "B12.17.45", "lines": ["Like leopard leaping on a mountain sheep,", "He closed on Tazhav with a single leap."]}, {"id": "B12.17.46", "lines": ["As falcon snatches lark from open sky,", "He tore the crown from Tazhav riding by."]}, {"id": "B12.17.47", "lines": ["Afrasiab had set it on his head,", "It left him not in thought nor dreams in bed."]}, {"id": "B12.17.48", "lines": ["Tazhav drove hard toward the castle gate,", "While Bijan followed close at furious rate."]}, {"id": "B12.17.49", "lines": ["When near the walls, fair Espanoye appeared,", "Her face was wet, her heart with anguish seared."]}, {"id": "B12.17.50", "lines": ["She called aloud: “O Tazhav! Where now lie", "Your men, your valor, and your battle-cry?"]}, {"id": "B12.17.51", "lines": ["Why turn your back and leave me in disgrace,", "Abandoned in this fortress and this place?"]}, {"id": "B12.17.52", "lines": ["Give me a place behind you on your steed;", "Do not abandon me to foeman’s greed.”"]}, {"id": "B12.17.53", "lines": ["Her plea made Tazhav’s heart with anguish burn;", "His cheeks flamed red; he made his charger turn."]}, {"id": "B12.17.54", "lines": ["He gave one stirrup as he drove ahead;", "She mounted close behind him as they fled."]}, {"id": "B12.17.55", "lines": ["They rushed like dust before the driving gale,", "Toward Turan over mountain, plain, and vale."]}, {"id": "B12.17.56", "lines": ["The charger sped till both the horse and man", "Were spent; the weakened beast no farther ran."]}, {"id": "B12.17.57", "lines": ["Then Tazhav spoke in sorrow at her side:", "“A grievous plight now presses us,” he sighed."]}, {"id": "B12.17.58", "lines": ["“My horse is spent from this desperate flight;", "Prince Bijan follows, eager for the fight."]}, {"id": "B12.17.59", "lines": ["Before us yawns a ravine, dark and deep;", "This weary horse can scarcely onward leap."]}, {"id": "B12.17.60", "lines": ["Though we remain before him in the race,", "At last he overtakes us face to face."]}, {"id": "B12.17.61", "lines": ["Since none in Iran regards you as a foe,", "Remain behind; I must alone now go.”"]}, {"id": "B12.17.62", "lines": ["Then fair Espanoye stepped from the steed;", "Tazhav wept hard; relieved, it gathered speed."]}, {"id": "B12.17.63", "lines": ["Yet onward still he fled, a hunted thing,", "While Bijan followed hard on eagle’s wing."]}, {"id": "B12.17.64", "lines": ["When Bijan looked on Espanoye fair,", "Her feet were veiled beneath her musky hair,"]}, {"id": "B12.17.65", "lines": ["He raised her gently, helped her to her feet,", "And set her on the horse’s saddle-seat."]}, {"id": "B12.17.66", "lines": ["Then back he rode to Tus and his array,", "And koust from Tus’s court rang on the way."]}, {"id": "B12.17.67", "lines": ["Rejoicing filled the camp; the soldiers cheered:", "The lion with his quarry had appeared."]}, {"id": "B12.17.68", "lines": ["Then Tus and all the chiefs who loved the fray", "Began to wreck the fortress that same day."]}, {"id": "B12.17.69", "lines": ["They sought the herds that roamed Turan’s broad plain,", "And cast their kamands round each horse’s mane."]}, {"id": "B12.17.70", "lines": ["They quickly furnished all the troops with steeds,", "And took whatever else the army needs."]}, {"id": "B12.17.71", "lines": ["Within the palace Tazhav left behind,", "Iran’s horsemen lodged there, fierce in mind."]}, {"id": "B12.18.1", "lines": ["When Tazhav came with tearful eyes and grief", "Before Afrasiab, the Turanian chief,"]}, {"id": "B12.18.2", "lines": ["He said: “Sepahbod Tus has reached the plain,", "With koust, war elephants, a mighty train."]}, {"id": "B12.18.3", "lines": ["Palashan and our nobles, proud and brave,", "Lie slain and broken, given to the grave."]}, {"id": "B12.18.4", "lines": ["The marches and the fields lie scorched and bare;", "The herds are lost; ruin is everywhere.”"]}, {"id": "B12.18.5", "lines": ["Afrasiab grew troubled at the news,", "And sought at once what remedy to choose."]}, {"id": "B12.18.6", "lines": ["He turned to wise Piran, his trusted guide,", "The seasoned son of Viseh at his side:"]}, {"id": "B12.18.7", "lines": ["“I told you, ‘Gather warriors far and wide,’", "Yet still you lingered while our fortune died."]}, {"id": "B12.18.8", "lines": ["From sloth, old age, dull wit, or coward’s fright,", "You lingered on and brought us to this plight."]}, {"id": "B12.18.9", "lines": ["Many of our kin were seized and led away,", "And many favored warriors bleed today."]}, {"id": "B12.18.10", "lines": ["We may not linger; danger hems us round,", "And every road is closed on hostile ground.”"]}, {"id": "B12.18.11", "lines": ["Piran in haste departed from the court,", "And called the troops from every border fort."]}, {"id": "B12.18.12", "lines": ["He armed the soldiers, paid them from the store,", "And led the gathered forces off to war."]}, {"id": "B12.18.13", "lines": ["When he had crossed the frontier of the land,", "He gave each warrior his appointed stand."]}, {"id": "B12.18.14", "lines": ["The right he gave to Barman, brave and wise,", "And Tazhav, whose men matched elephants in size."]}, {"id": "B12.18.15", "lines": ["The left he gave to Nastihan the bold,", "A lion seemed a lamb within his hold."]}, {"id": "B12.18.16", "lines": ["The karnay cried; the koust rolled like thunder,", "And Indian bells made earth and heaven wonder."]}, {"id": "B12.18.17", "lines": ["Red, yellow, violet set the air alight,", "With spears and many-colored banners bright."]}, {"id": "B12.18.18", "lines": ["One hundred thousand warriors formed the throng,", "All turned toward the battlefield, fierce and strong."]}, {"id": "B12.18.19", "lines": ["With troops, steeds, elephants, and camels spread,", "No road from sea to sea lay clear ahead."]}, {"id": "B12.18.20", "lines": ["Piran marched swiftly onward with his train;", "Afrasiab left the palace for the plain."]}, {"id": "B12.18.21", "lines": ["He counted every soldier in the field,", "To learn what strength his gathered ranks could yield."]}, {"id": "B12.18.22", "lines": ["Afrasiab rejoiced in Piran then,", "And praised the wisdom of that chief of men."]}, {"id": "B12.18.23", "lines": ["He said: “Go forth victorious to the fight;", "Return in joy, and safe from evil’s spite.”"]}, {"id": "B12.18.24", "lines": ["Then troop by troop the mighty army flowed,", "Till plain and hill lay buried by its load."]}, {"id": "B12.18.25", "lines": ["Piran commanded: “Leave the common way;", "Take now the shorter road without delay."]}, {"id": "B12.18.26", "lines": ["The foe must never hear our army near,", "Nor learn our ranks before our lines appear."]}, {"id": "B12.18.27", "lines": ["Then like a mountain we shall strike their line,", "Before they glimpse the strength of our design.”"]}, {"id": "B12.18.28", "lines": ["He sent out scouts and watchers through the land", "To learn how all the Iranian forces stand."]}, {"id": "B12.18.29", "lines": ["Then steadily he pressed the march ahead,", "Toward Gorugard where war and blood were spread."]}, {"id": "B12.18.30", "lines": ["The scouts returned to Piran, drawing near,", "And one by one they whispered in his ear:"]}, {"id": "B12.18.31", "lines": ["“Tus does not stir; the camp is hushed and still;", "They sound no koust, as if they lack the will."]}, {"id": "B12.18.32", "lines": ["They drink without a pause, their senses sunk,", "With brimming cups in hand, already drunk."]}, {"id": "B12.18.33", "lines": ["No mounted scout keeps watch along the way;", "They give no thought to Turan’s battle array.”"]}, {"id": "B12.18.34", "lines": ["When Piran heard, he called the chiefs to hear,", "And spoke at length about the foemen near."]}, {"id": "B12.18.35", "lines": ["He said, “In battle never have we known", "Advantage such as fortune now has shown.”"]}, {"id": "B12.19.1", "lines": ["From that proud force, sagacious Piran chose", "Full thirty thousand swords to strike his foes."]}, {"id": "B12.19.2", "lines": ["At dead of night they marched with naked blades;", "No tabira or karnay broke the shades."]}, {"id": "B12.19.3", "lines": ["When wise Piran advanced upon their course,", "Seven farsangs still lay between each force."]}, {"id": "B12.19.4", "lines": ["They found Iran’s great herds abandoned wide,", "Across Turan’s broad plain on every side."]}, {"id": "B12.19.5", "lines": ["They seized great numbers; many more they felled;", "No greater loss had ever been beheld."]}, {"id": "B12.19.6", "lines": ["They killed the herdsmen guarding them that night;", "Iran’s good fortune turned away from sight."]}, {"id": "B12.19.7", "lines": ["Then like a storm-cloud black with dust they came;", "Turanian ranks advanced to war’s grim game."]}, {"id": "B12.19.8", "lines": ["The Iranians lay drunken in their bands,", "With loosened belts, no weapons in their hands."]}, {"id": "B12.19.9", "lines": ["Yet noble Giv stayed sober, watchful, keen,", "And Gudarz too kept vigil on the scene."]}, {"id": "B12.19.10", "lines": ["Then battle-cries and axe-blows split the night;", "Great Giv stood startled at the sudden fight."]}, {"id": "B12.19.11", "lines": ["Before his tent a charger stood arrayed,", "Caparisoned for war, its gear displayed."]}, {"id": "B12.19.12", "lines": ["The gallant hero donned the jowshan worn", "By Prince Siavash, noble though forlorn."]}, {"id": "B12.19.13", "lines": ["He raged against himself in bitter shame,", "Like some fierce leopard scorched by inward flame."]}, {"id": "B12.19.14", "lines": ["“Up, Giv!” he cried. “What shame has filled my head?", "The fumes of wine, when battle waits instead?”"]}, {"id": "B12.19.15", "lines": ["He mounted then and rode forth like a gale,", "While dust and darkness spread a murky veil."]}, {"id": "B12.19.16", "lines": ["He reached the sepahbod’s tent through dust and night;", "The army’s cloud had veiled the heavens from sight."]}, {"id": "B12.19.17", "lines": ["“Rise! Rise! The enemy has reached our line;", "The dust of battle veils each heavenly sign!”"]}, {"id": "B12.19.18", "lines": ["He left them then and sought his father’s tent,", "His ox-head gorz held high as on he went."]}, {"id": "B12.19.19", "lines": ["Swift as a wisp of smoke he rode around,", "And woke each sober warrior he found."]}, {"id": "B12.19.20", "lines": ["To Bijan then he cried in fierce disdain:", "“Is this war’s field, or wine-garden domain?”"]}, {"id": "B12.19.21", "lines": ["Iran’s army stood surrounded in the night;", "War cries and tumult filled the camp with fright."]}, {"id": "B12.19.22", "lines": ["A cloud arose and arrows fell like rain;", "The drunken woke to terror and to pain."]}, {"id": "B12.19.23", "lines": ["Soft cushions lay beneath each sleeper’s head;", "Above them gorz, gopal, and hot swords sped."]}, {"id": "B12.19.24", "lines": ["When dawn arose beneath the lion’s sign,", "And Giv surveyed the field and battle-line,"]}, {"id": "B12.19.25", "lines": ["He saw the slaughtered legions where they fell, ", "While doom and darkness tolled their iron knell."]}, {"id": "B12.19.26", "lines": ["Gudarz looked out on every side with dread;", "The enemy increased and onward spread."]}, {"id": "B12.19.27", "lines": ["Against their little force the foemen poured,", "Like ants and locusts in a countless horde."]}, {"id": "B12.19.28", "lines": ["Then Tus looked round: scarce any fighters pressed,", "Save Giv, Gudarz, and champions sore distressed."]}, {"id": "B12.19.29", "lines": ["The standards hung in shreds; the koust lay low,", "And ebony-dark faces marked their woe."]}, {"id": "B12.19.30", "lines": ["Both sons and fathers vanished in the fray;", "The mighty army overturned that day."]}, {"id": "B12.19.31", "lines": ["Such was the decree of heaven’s turning sphere,", "Which grants men joy, then fills their lives with fear."]}, {"id": "B12.19.32", "lines": ["Unable now to stand against the foe,", "They fled in wild confusion from the blow."]}, {"id": "B12.19.33", "lines": ["They left their koust and baggage on the field,", "Their tents, pavilions scattered as they reeled."]}, {"id": "B12.19.34", "lines": ["They staggered wounded both on left and right,", "Broken and scattered from the hopeless fight."]}, {"id": "B12.19.35", "lines": ["Toward the Kasa Rud the broken made their way,", "With warp and woof of order stripped away."]}, {"id": "B12.19.36", "lines": ["The Turanian riders pressed upon their rear,", "And mocked brave Tus with many a curse and jeer."]}, {"id": "B12.19.37", "lines": ["From heaven it seemed that their heavy gorz fell,", "On jowshan and on helm with iron knell."]}, {"id": "B12.19.38", "lines": ["None turned to stand; they struggled toward the height,", "Their horses reeling, spent from wounds and flight."]}, {"id": "B12.19.39", "lines": ["No spirit, strength, or steadfastness remained;", "Their courage failed, their very souls were drained."]}, {"id": "B12.19.40", "lines": ["At last Turanian troops abandoned chase,", "Exhausted by the struggle and the race."]}, {"id": "B12.19.41", "lines": ["Then Tus moved from the plain toward mountain track;", "No Turanian force now pressed his back."]}, {"id": "B12.19.42", "lines": ["Iran’s ranks mourned the captive and the dead;", "The living, bound or wounded, scarcely fled."]}, {"id": "B12.19.43", "lines": ["No throne remained, no royal tent or crown,", "No horse, no warrior left of high renown."]}, {"id": "B12.19.44", "lines": ["No thriving land, no able man was left;", "None sought the wounded, bleeding and bereft."]}, {"id": "B12.19.45", "lines": ["Sons wept in anguish for their fathers slain,", "And wounded men burned fiercely in their pain."]}, {"id": "B12.19.46", "lines": ["Such is the custom of this weary earth:", "It hides its true intent from human birth."]}, {"id": "B12.19.47", "lines": ["Behind a veil it plays a secret part;", "It shows one face and hides another heart."]}, {"id": "B12.19.48", "lines": ["In greed’s hard grip mankind consumes its years,", "And cannot tell what hides from what appears."]}, {"id": "B12.19.49", "lines": ["From wind we came, and into dust we go; ", "What fate prepares for us, what man can know?"]}, {"id": "B12.19.50", "lines": ["Two-thirds of Iran’s ranks lay with the dead;", "The rest crawled back through misery and dread."]}, {"id": "B12.19.51", "lines": ["No healers brought the wounded men relief;", "Blood-colored tears were shed in bitter grief."]}, {"id": "B12.19.52", "lines": ["Mad Tus stood raging, broken by defeat;", "His heart and wisdom parted in retreat."]}, {"id": "B12.19.53", "lines": ["Of son, grandson, and homeland stripped, dismayed,", "The broken veterans sought Gudarz for aid."]}, {"id": "B12.19.54", "lines": ["He set a watchman on the mountain height,", "To keep the gathered enemy in sight."]}, {"id": "B12.19.55", "lines": ["He sent out scouts to range on every side,", "And seek some cure to turn disaster’s tide."]}, {"id": "B12.19.56", "lines": ["He called an Iranian noble near,", "And bade him gird, then ride with tidings clear:"]}, {"id": "B12.19.57", "lines": ["Report what deeds the army’s leader had done,", "And how ill fortune marred the course begun."]}, {"id": "B12.19.58", "lines": ["Vengeance had brought them neither gain nor rest;", "Disaster dogged them through that bitter quest."]}, {"id": "B12.20.1", "lines": ["Then to the Shah the courier’s tidings passed:", "How dark the army’s day had turned so fast."]}, {"id": "B12.20.2", "lines": ["Brave Khosrow heard, and anguish seized his breast;", "Grief struck his soul and robbed his heart of rest."]}, {"id": "B12.20.3", "lines": ["His sorrow for his brother newly slain", "Was joined to grief for all who strewed the plain."]}, {"id": "B12.20.4", "lines": ["Through dark of night he cursed bold Tus by name,", "Till cockcrow, pouring wrath upon his fame."]}, {"id": "B12.20.5", "lines": ["He summoned then a prudent scribe to hear", "His grief-filled words, made sharp by anger, clear."]}, {"id": "B12.20.6", "lines": ["A tearful letter then the monarch wrote,", "For his lost brother, wrath in every note."]}, {"id": "B12.20.7", "lines": ["It went to Fariborz, Kavus’s son,", "And to the army’s chiefs, renowned each one."]}, {"id": "B12.20.8", "lines": ["First came God’s praise, as custom, rite, and creed,", "The ancient form by which such words proceed:"]}, {"id": "B12.20.9", "lines": ["“In name of Him who rules the moon and sun,", "Who gives the good the station they have won."]}, {"id": "B12.20.10", "lines": ["From Him come victory, patience, good and ill;", "Desire and splendor answer to His will."]}, {"id": "B12.20.11", "lines": ["He shaped the world and fixed both place and time,", "The ant’s small foot, the elephant in prime."]}, {"id": "B12.20.12", "lines": ["He grants men wisdom, soul, and body strong,", "To Him greatness, diadem, and throne belong."]}, {"id": "B12.20.13", "lines": ["No soul escapes the circle of His reign;", "To one He grants both farr and orung’s gain."]}, {"id": "B12.20.14", "lines": ["To one come hardship, misery, and grief;", "Ill fortune, need, and pain grant no relief."]}, {"id": "B12.20.15", "lines": ["From blazing sun to earth and darkened clay,", "All is the justice of pure Yazdan’s way."]}, {"id": "B12.20.16", "lines": ["I sent out Tus beneath the Kaviani sign,", "With forty golden-shod men in his line."]}, {"id": "B12.20.17", "lines": ["I sent them with a mighty force away,", "And first my brother perished in the fray!"]}, {"id": "B12.20.18", "lines": ["May no such chief command Iran’s array;", "May no such sepahbod rise to lead one day."]}, {"id": "B12.20.19", "lines": ["Alas for brave Forood, lost to my sight,", "The chief renowned, the champions’ prop in fight."]}, {"id": "B12.20.20", "lines": ["I burned for vengeance for my father slain;", "Now grief for my lost brother wakes that pain."]}, {"id": "B12.20.21", "lines": ["Now for my brother I must weep and grieve;", "I know not foe from friend, whom to believe."]}, {"id": "B12.20.22", "lines": ["I warned bold Tus: ‘Let Charam’s road alone,", "And keep from Kalat and Sepid Kooh’s stone.’"]}, {"id": "B12.20.23", "lines": ["For there Forood commands a fighting band,", "A Kayan warrior guarding that land."]}, {"id": "B12.20.24", "lines": ["He cannot know whose army draws that way,", "From Iran’s ranks or Chin’s remote array."]}, {"id": "B12.20.25", "lines": ["He will descend the mountain for the fight,", "And many chiefs will meet their destined night."]}, {"id": "B12.20.26", "lines": ["Alas for that young prince of noble seed,", "Whom wretched Tus cast to the wind by deed!"]}, {"id": "B12.20.27", "lines": ["Had Tus been sepahbod in days before,", "King Kavus’s fortune would have suffered sore."]}, {"id": "B12.20.28", "lines": ["In battle sleep overtakes him where he lies;", "Without his wine, unrest will make him rise."]}, {"id": "B12.20.29", "lines": ["All arts, it seems, are gathered in his name;", "May no such darkened soul endure in fame."]}, {"id": "B12.20.30", "lines": ["Put food and rest and sleep aside today;", "Send Tus back swiftly here without delay."]}, {"id": "B12.20.31", "lines": ["Obey my order; let no counsel stray;", "Do not replace my word with your own way."]}, {"id": "B12.20.32", "lines": ["The golden shoes and Kaviani sign", "Are yours to bear; command the battle-line."]}, {"id": "B12.20.33", "lines": ["Let wise Gudarz advise you in each need;", "In every matter, heed his word and deed."]}, {"id": "B12.20.34", "lines": ["Rush not to battle; keep your judgment bright;", "Stay far from wine and sleep that clouds your sight."]}, {"id": "B12.20.35", "lines": ["Remain encamped until the wounded heal,", "Till wounded men regain their strength and zeal."]}, {"id": "B12.20.36", "lines": ["Then noble Giv shall lead the vanguard line,", "For farr and burz with leopard-claws combine."]}, {"id": "B12.20.37", "lines": ["Gather war gear and stores from every side;", "Let thoughts of feast and revelry subside.”"]}, {"id": "B12.20.38", "lines": ["They sealed the letter with the Shah’s own seal;", "Then Khosrow spoke with stern and fierce appeal:"]}, {"id": "B12.20.39", "lines": ["“Ride night and day; let no delay impede;", "At every post exchange your weary steed.”"]}, {"id": "B12.20.40", "lines": ["The messenger rode swiftly on his way", "And reached the gathered chiefs without delay."]}, {"id": "B12.20.41", "lines": ["He placed the royal letter in his hand;", "Fariborz took the Shah’s own sealed command."]}, {"id": "B12.20.42", "lines": ["He summoned Tus and every champion near,", "And told them all the tidings, sharp and clear."]}, {"id": "B12.20.43", "lines": ["He called Giv, Gudarz, riders from the field,", "And border champions armed with sword and shield."]}, {"id": "B12.20.44", "lines": ["When Khosrow’s royal letter had been read,", "The world became a tree with new fruit spread."]}, {"id": "B12.20.45", "lines": ["The chiefs and warriors gathered, and they raised", "Their blessings on Kay Khosrow, whom they praised."]}, {"id": "B12.20.46", "lines": ["Then Tus brought Fariborz the Kaviani sign,", "The koust, elephants, and golden shoes in line."]}, {"id": "B12.20.47", "lines": ["“The worthy meets the worthy. Fortune rise;", "May every day be Nowruz in your eyes.”"]}, {"id": "B12.20.48", "lines": ["Then Tus assembled all of Nohzar’s clan,", "Hard warriors versed in every battle plan."]}, {"id": "B12.20.49", "lines": ["Without delay they hastened from the plain", "And rode straight to the Shah by road and rein."]}, {"id": "B12.20.50", "lines": ["Arriving there, brave Tus bowed to the ground,", "But Khosrow turned his gaze and looked not round."]}, {"id": "B12.20.51", "lines": ["The Shah poured curses on the warrior’s head,", "And shamed him before all with words of dread."]}, {"id": "B12.20.52", "lines": ["At last he cried: “O man of evil sign,", "May fame among the champions cease to shine!"]}, {"id": "B12.20.53", "lines": ["Do you not fear pure Yazdan’s watchful eye?", "Before the champions, does your shame not rise?"]}, {"id": "B12.20.54", "lines": ["Did I not warn you, ‘Shun the Charam road’?", "Yet there you marched, and grief became my load."]}, {"id": "B12.20.55", "lines": ["You first took up the vengeance that was mine,", "Then brought disgrace and loss to Siavash’s line."]}, {"id": "B12.20.56", "lines": ["My brother, Prince Forood, was brave in fight,", "No warrior could match his noble might."]}, {"id": "B12.20.57", "lines": ["You slew him, though to bring that chief to ground", "Required an army gathered all around."]}, {"id": "B12.20.58", "lines": ["And afterward, once camped upon the plain,", "You did but feast and drink through song’s refrain."]}, {"id": "B12.20.59", "lines": ["You have no place among the city’s men;", "The madman’s ward and bonds should hold you then."]}, {"id": "B12.20.60", "lines": ["You have no place among the good and true,", "For wisdom never made its home in you."]}, {"id": "B12.20.61", "lines": ["Nails, bonds, and fetters are the things you earn;", "Not crown, diadem, nor wine-cup in return."]}, {"id": "B12.20.62", "lines": ["Manuchehr’s blood within your veins yet flows,", "And that alone, with age, your life bestows."]}, {"id": "B12.20.63", "lines": ["Else I would order, here before this band,", "Your head struck from your body where you stand."]}, {"id": "B12.20.64", "lines": ["Go now; let prison hold you from this hour;", "Your own ill nature keeps you in its power.”"]}, {"id": "B12.20.65", "lines": ["He drove out Tus and bound him in the cell,", "His joy, torn by the root, in fetters fell."]}, {"id": "B12.21.1", "lines": ["Prince Fariborz, a Pahlevan of might,", "King Kavus’s son put on his helm to fight."]}, {"id": "B12.21.2", "lines": ["He summoned brave Rohham before the line,", "“Now prove your gohar; let your name here shine.”"]}, {"id": "B12.21.3", "lines": ["“Go now to wise Piran,” the prince declared,", "“And bear a peaceful message, plain and fair."]}, {"id": "B12.21.4", "lines": ["Say this: ‘The turning heavens still rehearse", "Both love and pain throughout the universe."]}, {"id": "B12.21.5", "lines": ["One man they lift to glory and to power;", "Another sinks beneath a bitter hour."]}, {"id": "B12.21.6", "lines": ["Whoever seeks calamity meets its blight;", "A man of worth does not attack by night."]}, {"id": "B12.21.7", "lines": ["By night to raid is not the brave man’s way;", "Nor chiefs who wield the heavy gorz shun day."]}, {"id": "B12.21.8", "lines": ["If you will cease from war, then we will cease;", "If you prefer the sword, we break the peace.’”"]}, {"id": "B12.21.9", "lines": ["Brave Rohham, whom Prince Fariborz had sent,", "Rode hard, and with the letter onward went."]}, {"id": "B12.21.10", "lines": ["Turanian outposts saw him drawing near,", "And asked his name and homeland, sharp and clear."]}, {"id": "B12.21.11", "lines": ["Rohham replied: “Rohham, a warrior known,", "Skilled, watchful, and in battle firm as stone."]}, {"id": "B12.21.12", "lines": ["I bear to Piran words upon this field,", "From Fariborz, King Kavus’s son, revealed.”"]}, {"id": "B12.21.13", "lines": ["One horseman from the outposts raced ahead,", "And left a streaming dust-cloud as he sped."]}, {"id": "B12.21.14", "lines": ["He said: “Rohham, the son of Gudarz, came", "From battle seeking you, a chief of fame.”"]}, {"id": "B12.21.15", "lines": ["Piran commanded, “Bring the warrior near,", "With open heart and fresh face, free of fear.”"]}, {"id": "B12.21.16", "lines": ["Wise Rohham entered with a guarded heart,", "Unsure what hidden purpose played its part."]}, {"id": "B12.21.17", "lines": ["Piran received him warmly as a guest,", "Then set him on the throne and asked his quest."]}, {"id": "B12.21.18", "lines": ["Rohham revealed what had been kept from sight,", "And spoke Fariborz’s message plain, outright."]}, {"id": "B12.21.19", "lines": ["Piran replied: “No wisdom shaped this fight;", "Your side struck first and brought this war to light."]}, {"id": "B12.21.20", "lines": ["We saw no counsel, pause, or thought of truce;", "Tus crossed our borders like a wolf let loose."]}, {"id": "B12.21.21", "lines": ["He slaughtered all he met without remorse,", "And dragged off captives in his violent course."]}, {"id": "B12.21.22", "lines": ["He treated good and bad alike that day,", "Throughout our borderland along his way."]}, {"id": "B12.21.23", "lines": ["But now your side has met that evil’s due,", "Though vengeance drove your army charging through."]}, {"id": "B12.21.24", "lines": ["So if you lead the army in command,", "Then ask your need directly from my hand."]}, {"id": "B12.21.25", "lines": ["If you desire a month in which to cease,", "No horseman of our ranks shall break the peace."]}, {"id": "B12.21.26", "lines": ["But if you seek the battlefield instead,", "Array your ranks and boldly march ahead."]}, {"id": "B12.21.27", "lines": ["Use well the month of truce that we allow;", "Then leave Turan when time completes its vow."]}, {"id": "B12.21.28", "lines": ["Turn all your army toward your native land,", "And learn your worth; its measure understand."]}, {"id": "B12.21.29", "lines": ["But if not, we shall meet you now in war,", "And grant no further truce forevermore.”"]}, {"id": "B12.21.30", "lines": ["He robed brave Rohham with an honored gown,", "A gift that matched his worth and his renown."]}, {"id": "B12.21.31", "lines": ["Then Rohham rode to Fariborz and brought", "Piran’s reply, the answer he had sought."]}, {"id": "B12.21.32", "lines": ["When Fariborz received the granted pause,", "He reached on every side like lion’s claws."]}, {"id": "B12.21.33", "lines": ["They opened treasure-purses, wealth untied,", "And Fariborz gave riches far and wide."]}, {"id": "B12.21.34", "lines": ["They drew the army out and set each line,", "Equipped with every need for war’s design."]}, {"id": "B12.22.1", "lines": ["When month’s end brought the promised battle-day,", "Both armies then turned from the truce to fray,"]}, {"id": "B12.22.2", "lines": ["The soldiers’ shouts rose fierce on every side,", "And all advanced where battle opened wide."]}, {"id": "B12.22.3", "lines": ["The karnay, koust, and Indian daray cried,", "While crested chargers surged in ranks allied."]}, {"id": "B12.22.4", "lines": ["With reins and swords and bows thrust toward the sky,", "No gnat could find a narrow path to fly."]}, {"id": "B12.22.5", "lines": ["With gopal, sword, and spear and buckler drawn,", "The world seemed swallowed by a dragon’s yawn."]}, {"id": "B12.22.6", "lines": ["The heavens seemed to bend toward earth below,", "While earth rose up to meet the sky in woe."]}, {"id": "B12.22.7", "lines": ["Gudarz’s heir, Giv, led the right-hand wing,", "A rad and Mobad, marzban for the king."]}, {"id": "B12.22.8", "lines": ["Upon the left stood Ashkash, battle-tried,", "Who made the foemen’s blood run like a tide."]}, {"id": "B12.22.9", "lines": ["Before the central standard’s royal flame", "Stood Fariborz, prince of Kavus by name."]}, {"id": "B12.22.10", "lines": ["Fariborz told his warriors on the field:", "“Till now our honar has remained concealed."]}, {"id": "B12.22.11", "lines": ["Today we fight like lions; make the foe", "Find all the world too narrow where they go,"]}, {"id": "B12.22.12", "lines": ["Or bear a shame no warrior’s heart should know;", "Then gorz and Roman helm will mock us so.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.13", "lines": ["Arrows fell thick through all the autumn air,", "Like autumn winds that strip the branches bare."]}, {"id": "B12.22.14", "lines": ["The air seemed filled with vultures wheeling high,", "While elephants beat earth beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B12.22.15", "lines": ["With arrows, gorz, the dust rose thick as night,", "No bird could find a passage in its flight."]}, {"id": "B12.22.16", "lines": ["The falchions flashed like diamonds through the dust,", "And fire from steel broke red through battle’s gust."]}, {"id": "B12.22.17", "lines": ["The earth seemed black as Zangi face below,", "While stars like warriors’ hearts appeared to glow."]}, {"id": "B12.22.18", "lines": ["With gorz and spear and curved swords fiercely plied,", "A rastakhiz rose vast on every side."]}, {"id": "B12.22.19", "lines": ["Then Giv rode from the right into the fight,", "His lips all foam, his war cry at its height."]}, {"id": "B12.22.20", "lines": ["The noble house of old Gudarz drew near,", "On them hung gain and loss in battle here."]}, {"id": "B12.22.21", "lines": ["They fought with shafts and lances fiercely cast,", "And fire from iron showered thick and fast."]}, {"id": "B12.22.22", "lines": ["Gudarz fought Piran with a furious hand,", "And slew nine hundred kinsmen from his band."]}, {"id": "B12.22.23", "lines": ["When Lahhak and bold Farshidvard beheld", "Great clouds of dust above the army swelled,"]}, {"id": "B12.22.24", "lines": ["They charged at Giv, his gorz-men, and his line,", "With hearts of iron and a grim design."]}, {"id": "B12.22.25", "lines": ["From chieftains’ bows the shafts fell like a flood,", "On famed men, jowshan-clad, through dust and blood."]}, {"id": "B12.22.26", "lines": ["No eye could see the surface of the ground,", "For heaps of slain lay thickly all around."]}, {"id": "B12.22.27", "lines": ["Yet no man turned his back before the foe,", "And none abandoned post beneath the blow."]}, {"id": "B12.22.28", "lines": ["At last bold Houman said to Farshidvard:", "“We strike the center now, and strike it hard."]}, {"id": "B12.22.29", "lines": ["If Fariborz is driven from the field,", "The center breaks; the right wing soon must yield."]}, {"id": "B12.22.30", "lines": ["Then we can crush the right wing with our hands,", "And seize the baggage, treasure, tents, and bands.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.31", "lines": ["They fell upon the center in their might;", "Before bold Houman, Fariborz took flight."]}, {"id": "B12.22.32", "lines": ["The fighting line broke open in dismay;", "The haughty chiefs gave way and left the fray."]}, {"id": "B12.22.33", "lines": ["No Iranian warrior held his place;", "All turned confused and fled before disgrace."]}, {"id": "B12.22.34", "lines": ["The koust and standard lay abandoned, lone;", "Their eyes from battle took a purple tone."]}, {"id": "B12.22.35", "lines": ["They turned their backs before the foeman’s might,", "And fled headlong in terror from the fight."]}, {"id": "B12.22.36", "lines": ["The koust, spears, standards fell across the plain;", "No rider knew his stirrup from his rein."]}, {"id": "B12.22.37", "lines": ["With blood the mountain and the plain were dyed;", "The enemy closed in on every side."]}, {"id": "B12.22.38", "lines": ["Then Fariborz, as foes on all sides pressed,", "Fled toward the mountain-skirt among the rest."]}, {"id": "B12.22.39", "lines": ["With him fled all who still remained alive;", "What life is this, for which the brave still strive?"]}, {"id": "B12.22.40", "lines": ["Gudarz and Giv, with warriors of fame,", "Still held the field amid the dust and flame."]}, {"id": "B12.22.41", "lines": ["But when Gudarz beheld the center void,", "No flag, no Fariborz, no troops deployed,"]}, {"id": "B12.22.42", "lines": ["His heart burned hot; he turned his rein in flight,", "And Doomsday seized his Gudarzian line that night."]}, {"id": "B12.22.43", "lines": ["Then Giv said: “Veteran chief, now hear my cry;", "You faced gopal and gorz where arrows fly."]}, {"id": "B12.22.44", "lines": ["If now you flee before Piran’s array,", "Then dust upon my head be poured today."]}, {"id": "B12.22.45", "lines": ["Of chiefs and seasoned warriors on this earth,", "Not one will live to speak of name or birth."]}, {"id": "B12.22.46", "lines": ["For you and me no cure for death remains;", "Death is the final scourge of mortal pains."]}, {"id": "B12.22.47", "lines": ["Since now our rugged hour has found us here,", "The foe should see your face, and not your rear."]}, {"id": "B12.22.48", "lines": ["I will not leave my post or choose retreat;", "Let us not shame the dust of Keshvad’s feet."]}, {"id": "B12.22.49", "lines": ["Have you not heard the ancient saying told,", "By wise sepahbods and by warriors old:"]}, {"id": "B12.22.50", "lines": ["‘When brothers stand together, back to back,", "A mountain shrinks to stone beneath attack.’"]}, {"id": "B12.22.51", "lines": ["You stand with seventy fighting sons in sight,", "And many kin of elephant and lion might."]}, {"id": "B12.22.52", "lines": ["Let khanjars break the foeman’s heart today,", "And tear a mountain from its roots away.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.53", "lines": ["When old Gudarz had heard brave Giv’s appeal,", "And saw his wakeful kin in helms of steel,"]}, {"id": "B12.22.54", "lines": ["He rued his counsel, rallied once again,", "And planted firmer feet among his men."]}, {"id": "B12.22.55", "lines": ["Guraza, Gostaham, and Borteh came,", "With Zangeh, fierce and brave in battle’s flame."]}, {"id": "B12.22.56", "lines": ["They swore a heavy oath and pledged their word,", "With battle in their blood, and dust that stirred:"]}, {"id": "B12.22.57", "lines": ["“Though gorz stream with blood, we still will not yield;", "Back-to-back, we win our honor on the field.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.58", "lines": ["They pressed their mounts and drove into the fray,", "With their mighty gorz ready for the day."]}, {"id": "B12.22.59", "lines": ["They took their stand; their heavy gorz came down,", "Full many noble foemen yielded ground."]}, {"id": "B12.22.60", "lines": ["Yet fortune would not favor Iran’s side;", "The hostile tide came on in swelling pride."]}, {"id": "B12.22.61", "lines": ["Then old Gudarz said: “Scion of my line,", "Ride swiftly as an arrow from this sign."]}, {"id": "B12.22.62", "lines": ["Take gorz and arrows; ride with all your speed;", "Go straight to Fariborz in bitter need."]}, {"id": "B12.22.63", "lines": ["Go, bring the Kaviani standard; ride", "Through battle’s darkened air back to our side."]}, {"id": "B12.22.64", "lines": ["Perhaps Prince Fariborz will join our band,", "And turn the foeman violet where they stand.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.65", "lines": ["Bijan heard this and spurred his horse away,", "Like Azargashasp blazing into day."]}, {"id": "B12.22.66", "lines": ["He came to Fariborz and cried aloud:", "“Why hide the army here beneath this cloud?"]}, {"id": "B12.22.67", "lines": ["Take up your reins as warriors have done;", "Do not stand idle underneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B12.22.68", "lines": ["But if you will not come, then yield the sign,", "The riders and bright swords of violet shine.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.69", "lines": ["But Fariborz, no friend to wisdom then,", "Cried: “Go away, rash youth among the men!"]}, {"id": "B12.22.70", "lines": ["You are too new to battle and too bold;", "The Shah gave me this standard to uphold."]}, {"id": "B12.22.71", "lines": ["The army and the Pahlevan’s rank are mine;", "The throne and crown with my command combine."]}, {"id": "B12.22.72", "lines": ["This standard is not yours by any right,", "Though none beneath the sky surpass your might.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.73", "lines": ["Then Bijan drew his violet sword and bore", "Its edge against the standard that he tore."]}, {"id": "B12.22.74", "lines": ["He split the standard straight across the seam,", "And seized one half beneath its violet gleam."]}, {"id": "B12.22.75", "lines": ["He rushed out from the throng with furious speed,", "And bore the torn standard to his kin in need."]}, {"id": "B12.22.76", "lines": ["When Turanians saw the standard drawing near,", "Brave warriors advanced and showed no fear."]}, {"id": "B12.22.77", "lines": ["They drew their iron axes, swords of blue,", "To seize the Kaviani standard from his view."]}, {"id": "B12.22.78", "lines": ["Houman said: “That violet standard flies;", "Iran’s whole strength and virtue with it rise."]}, {"id": "B12.22.79", "lines": ["If we can seize it, all the world will close,", "And crush the Shah beneath the weight of woes.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.80", "lines": ["Bijan drew back his bowstring with great speed,", "And loosed his arrows thick as scattered seed."]}, {"id": "B12.22.81", "lines": ["He drove them back beneath his ceaseless rain,", "And spread a feast for wolves across the plain."]}, {"id": "B12.22.82", "lines": ["The horsemen near Giv and Gostaham cried:", "“The Turanians flee before his arrows’ tide."]}, {"id": "B12.22.83", "lines": ["Perhaps brave Bijan comes with Iran’s sign,", "And bears the Kaviani standard to our line.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.84", "lines": ["Iran’s gorz-bearing chiefs advanced in force;", "And slew full many a Turanian horse."]}, {"id": "B12.22.85", "lines": ["Famed Bijan reached them in a rushing tide,", "And all the chiefs held firm on every side."]}, {"id": "B12.22.86", "lines": ["Like a fierce lion, he came through blood and dust,", "The Kaviani standard restored to Iran’s trust."]}, {"id": "B12.22.87", "lines": ["The soldiers gathered round the royal sign,", "And riders’ dust turned violet through the line."]}, {"id": "B12.22.88", "lines": ["Once more Iran’s line advanced into the fight;", "The foremost rank blazed savage in the light."]}, {"id": "B12.22.89", "lines": ["There Prince Rivniz, of royal Kavus' strain, ", "Was struck to earth among the heaps of slain."]}, {"id": "B12.22.90", "lines": ["Not Tus's kin who fell at Kalat's height, ", "This crowned young scion perished in the fight.."]}, {"id": "B12.22.91", "lines": ["When crown and head fell low amid the fight,", "Full many nobles tore their robes in sight."]}, {"id": "B12.22.92", "lines": ["Then Giv exclaimed: “O chiefs of noble name,", "O warriors hardened in the battle-flame!"]}, {"id": "B12.22.93", "lines": ["Prince Fariborz prized Rivniz above all,", "His hope, the foremost warrior at his call."]}, {"id": "B12.22.94", "lines": ["Three men have died in misery and pain:", "Forood, Siavash, Rivniz; all are slain."]}, {"id": "B12.22.95", "lines": ["What greater wonder can this world still keep?", "What deeper wound could make the living weep?"]}, {"id": "B12.22.96", "lines": ["We must not let his crown fall to the foe,", "Or shame through all the army’s lines will flow."]}, {"id": "B12.22.97", "lines": ["If I withdraw from this embattled ground,", "Defeat will strike Iran’s whole army round."]}, {"id": "B12.22.98", "lines": ["That royal crown must never reach their hand,", "Nor pass from Iran to a Turanian band."]}, {"id": "B12.22.99", "lines": ["Rivniz’s death has brought us grief and blame;", "Lose not his crown and heap more shame on shame.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.100", "lines": ["When noble Piran heard what Giv had cried,", "Fresh battle round the crown spread far and wide,"]}, {"id": "B12.22.101", "lines": ["On both sides many warriors fell and died,", "While fortune turned to see Iran’s hopes subside."]}, {"id": "B12.22.102", "lines": ["Yet Bahram charged, a lion wreathed in flame,", "And through the press toward that bright circlet came."]}, {"id": "B12.22.103", "lines": ["He raised the crown upon his spearpoint high,", "While both sides watched in wonder toward the sky."]}, {"id": "B12.22.104", "lines": ["The Iranians rejoiced and drew fresh breath,", "To see the crown reclaimed from hands of death."]}, {"id": "B12.22.105", "lines": ["The fight grew fiercer; none turned back or fled,", "They struck each other hard on helm and head."]}, {"id": "B12.22.106", "lines": ["They raged until the day grew dark and blind,", "And dust closed over every eye and mind."]}, {"id": "B12.22.107", "lines": ["Eight of the kin of old Gudarz survived;", "Of all the rest, not one remained alive."]}, {"id": "B12.22.108", "lines": ["Of Giv’s own band, full twenty-five men died,", "Men fit for crowns and royal power and pride."]}, {"id": "B12.22.109", "lines": ["Of Kavus’s race, full seventy more were slain,", "All lion-hearted horsemen on the plain."]}, {"id": "B12.22.110", "lines": ["Rivniz, the crowned prince, stood outside that count;", "His death was grief no number could surmount."]}, {"id": "B12.22.111", "lines": ["Nine hundred horsemen from Piran’s own line", "Were missing when the day ceased to shine."]}, {"id": "B12.22.112", "lines": ["Of Afrasiab’s house, three hundred more", "Had lost their fortune on the field of gore."]}, {"id": "B12.22.113", "lines": ["The field, the day, the standard were his right;", "His star of fortune lit the world that night."]}, {"id": "B12.22.114", "lines": ["It was no day for Iran’s chiefs to strive;", "Their warlike hopes could scarcely stay alive."]}, {"id": "B12.22.115", "lines": ["Their search for combat ended in dismay;", "They turned their faces from the field away."]}, {"id": "B12.22.116", "lines": ["They left the wounded lying where they fell,", "And fled beneath the rout’s great weight, pell-mell."]}, {"id": "B12.22.117", "lines": ["Now Gostaham had seen his charger slain,", "As fortune turned against him on the plain."]}, {"id": "B12.22.118", "lines": ["In jowshan, helm, on foot, spear still in hand,", "He reeled like one drunk across the bloody land."]}, {"id": "B12.22.119", "lines": ["When Bijan reached him as the daylight died,", "He called: “Rise up and mount here at my side."]}, {"id": "B12.22.120", "lines": ["No living man is dearer in my eyes;", "Come, share my horse, and from this ruin rise.”"]}, {"id": "B12.22.121", "lines": ["So both of them bestrode a single steed,", "And sought the mountain-skirt in bitter need."]}, {"id": "B12.22.122", "lines": ["They left the battle in a routed flight,", "While darkness gathered on the field that night."]}, {"id": "B12.22.123", "lines": ["Turanian warriors, joyful in their hearts,", "Were freed from toil and war’s relentless darts."]}, {"id": "B12.22.124", "lines": ["They rode to camp, their spirits raised and bright,", "Prepared to feast after the weary fight."]}, {"id": "B12.22.125", "lines": ["From Iran’s champions rose a mournful cry,", "Their grief and lamentation filled the sky."]}, {"id": "B12.22.126", "lines": ["The koust roared out their sorrow, harsh and clear,", "Its thunder nearly deafened every ear."]}, {"id": "B12.22.127", "lines": ["Such is the ancient heaven’s turning way;", "No remedy can make its wheel delay."]}, {"id": "B12.22.128", "lines": ["It loves no friend, nor does it spare a foe;", "Fear Fortune when its lofty head bends low."]}, {"id": "B12.23.1", "lines": ["That night, when both the armies lay at rest,", "Bahram approached his father, sore distressed."]}, {"id": "B12.23.2", "lines": ["He said: “My honored father, wise and bright,", "Hear what befell me in the press of fight."]}, {"id": "B12.23.3", "lines": ["When I retrieved the crown and raised it high,", "Upon my spearpoint glittering toward the sky,"]}, {"id": "B12.23.4", "lines": ["I lost my whip amid the battlefield;", "To such a shame my heart can never yield."]}, {"id": "B12.23.5", "lines": ["Turanian warriors, if they find the whip,", "Will mock my name with laughter on each lip."]}, {"id": "B12.23.6", "lines": ["The world will turn to ebony before", "My eyes, and shame will wound my honor more."]}, {"id": "B12.23.7", "lines": ["My name is written on its leather plain;", "If Piran takes it, mine will be the stain."]}, {"id": "B12.23.8", "lines": ["I must ride back and find the whip I lost,", "Whatever toil it takes, whatever cost."]}, {"id": "B12.23.9", "lines": ["Does this ill fortune fall from stars on high,", "To cast my honored name in dust to lie?”"]}, {"id": "B12.23.10", "lines": ["Old Gudarz answered: “Son, take care, attend:", "Why bring your fortune to its bitter end?"]}, {"id": "B12.23.11", "lines": ["Will you confront the enemy and death", "For leather wrapped on wood, not worth your breath?”"]}, {"id": "B12.23.12", "lines": ["Bahram replied: “I am no better than", "My house and comrades in the battle’s span."]}, {"id": "B12.23.13", "lines": ["When death’s appointed hour has reached a man,", "Why think awry against the destined plan?”"]}, {"id": "B12.23.14", "lines": ["Then Giv said: “Brother, do not ride tonight;", "I have new whips, all worthy of your sight."]}, {"id": "B12.23.15", "lines": ["One has gold set in silver, finely wrought,", "Its ends with pearls and precious jewels caught."]}, {"id": "B12.23.16", "lines": ["When Farangis opened wide her royal store,", "And gave me arms and belts in days before,"]}, {"id": "B12.23.17", "lines": ["I took her jowshan and her whip that day,", "And left the rest in Turan far away."]}, {"id": "B12.23.18", "lines": ["Shah Kavus gave another, gold and bright,", "With gems that made it moonlike in the night."]}, {"id": "B12.23.19", "lines": ["Five others, gold and jewel-set, are stored;", "Remain at home: they will be your reward."]}, {"id": "B12.23.20", "lines": ["All seven I will give you; stay tonight,", "And do not start a vain and needless fight.”"]}, {"id": "B12.23.21", "lines": ["Brave Bahram answered Giv: “I cannot weigh", "This shame as slight, nor thrust its sting away."]}, {"id": "B12.23.22", "lines": ["You speak of color, workmanship, and art;", "I speak of name and honor in my heart."]}, {"id": "B12.23.23", "lines": ["I shall regain my whip upon that plain,", "Or lose my head in that relentless strain.”"]}, {"id": "B12.23.24", "lines": ["Yet Yazdan’s purpose took another course;", "The wheel of fortune turned with adverse force."]}, {"id": "B12.23.25", "lines": ["When fortune sleeps beneath misfortune’s skies,", "The counsel of the wise seems otherwise."]}, {"id": "B12.23.26", "lines": ["By moonlight Bahram rode toward the field,", "Where dead men lay with many a broken shield."]}, {"id": "B12.23.27", "lines": ["He mourned the slain, those luckless, heart-scorched men,", "Who never more would rise to war again."]}, {"id": "B12.23.28", "lines": ["The body of Rivniz lay drowned in gore,", "His khaftan torn, his beauty seen no more."]}, {"id": "B12.23.29", "lines": ["Bahram the lion wept for him and cried:", "“Alas, brave youth, by honor dignified!"]}, {"id": "B12.23.30", "lines": ["A man like you should grace the royal hall;", "Yet in this pit you lie, bereft of all.”"]}, {"id": "B12.23.31", "lines": ["From corpse to corpse across the moonlit plain,", "Bahram walked on among the fallen slain."]}, {"id": "B12.23.32", "lines": ["A scimitar had struck one chieftain’s side;", "Among the fallen men, he had not died."]}, {"id": "B12.23.33", "lines": ["The wounded chief saw Bahram drawing near,", "And asked his name through grief and rising fear."]}, {"id": "B12.23.34", "lines": ["He cried: “O lion, I am living still,", "Cast here among the dead by fortune’s will."]}, {"id": "B12.23.35", "lines": ["For two days I have longed for drink and bread,", "And for a cloth to make my resting-bed.”"]}, {"id": "B12.23.36", "lines": ["Bahram made haste to him with kinsman’s care,", "His loving spirit shaken by despair."]}, {"id": "B12.23.37", "lines": ["He wept and tore his cheeks in bitter grief,", "Then rent his clothes to bind and bring relief."]}, {"id": "B12.23.38", "lines": ["He said: “Take heart; your wound can still be bound;", "This cloth will keep your lifeblood from the ground."]}, {"id": "B12.23.39", "lines": ["Once I have bound it, you can reach the train,", "And heal among our ranks, your strength regain."]}, {"id": "B12.23.40", "lines": ["Stay here, brave chief; I lost my whip today,", "While seeking out the crown amid the fray."]}, {"id": "B12.23.41", "lines": ["I shall return and lift you from this ground,", "And bear you where Iran’s own ranks are found.”"]}, {"id": "B12.23.42", "lines": ["He hastened to the center of the plain,", "And searched among the wounded and the slain."]}, {"id": "B12.23.43", "lines": ["At last he found the whip amid the dead,", "Where dust and blood lay thickly overspread."]}, {"id": "B12.23.44", "lines": ["He stepped down from his horse and gripped it tight;", "A sudden neigh rang through the moonlit night."]}, {"id": "B12.23.45", "lines": ["His charger heard the mare and, with a cry,", "Shot off like Azargashasp beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B12.23.46", "lines": ["It rushed away and turned toward their sound,", "While angry Bahram followed on the ground."]}, {"id": "B12.23.47", "lines": ["In helm and khaftan, sweat upon his face,", "He hurried hard to catch it in the chase."]}, {"id": "B12.23.48", "lines": ["At last he caught the horse and seized the rein,", "Then mounted, Indian sword drawn on the plain."]}, {"id": "B12.23.49", "lines": ["But when he spurred, the charger would not go;", "It stood stock-still before the field of woe."]}, {"id": "B12.23.50", "lines": ["Both man and horse were drenched in dust and sweat;", "His fury rose; his heart grew harder yet."]}, {"id": "B12.23.51", "lines": ["His fury flared; he drew his Indian blade,", "And struck the charger’s leg, a wound he made."]}, {"id": "B12.23.52", "lines": ["Then back into the field of death he tore,", "On foot, like wind, through slaughter, blood, and gore."]}, {"id": "B12.23.53", "lines": ["The plain was covered with the fallen dead;", "Like arghavan in bloom, the earth shone red."]}, {"id": "B12.23.54", "lines": ["He said: “How can I cross this bloody plain,", "And make my way on foot through heaps of slain?”"]}, {"id": "B12.23.55", "lines": ["At last the foe perceived his desperate state;", "A hundred horsemen charged to seal his fate."]}, {"id": "B12.23.56", "lines": ["They spurred from center, seeking him to take,", "And bear him bound to Piran in their wake."]}, {"id": "B12.23.57", "lines": ["Bahram the lion bent his bow with skill,", "And rained his arrows down with aim to kill."]}, {"id": "B12.23.58", "lines": ["Who could draw near him when his arrows sped?", "He struck them down and filled their ranks with dread."]}, {"id": "B12.23.59", "lines": ["He slew or wounded most beneath his bow;", "On foot, he never turned his back to foe."]}, {"id": "B12.23.60", "lines": ["The riders all withdrew and fled away,", "And turned toward Piran from the fray."]}, {"id": "B12.23.61", "lines": ["When none remained in sight across the ground,", "Bahram gathered arrows scattered all around."]}, {"id": "B12.24.1", "lines": ["The riders came to Piran from the plain,", "And told him all of Bahram’s fierce campaign."]}, {"id": "B12.24.2", "lines": ["Much talk arose of Bahram’s battle art,", "Of deeds in open field and secret part."]}, {"id": "B12.24.3", "lines": ["They said: “On foot this lion still can fight,", "And never tires of battle day or night.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.4", "lines": ["Then Piran asked: “What name does this man bear?", "What rank among the famous does he share?”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.5", "lines": ["One answered: “Bahram, lion-slayer, famed,", "Whose glory fills the ranks where he is named.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.6", "lines": ["He turned to brave Ruyin there at his side:", "“Rise now; the task is yours; mount up and ride."]}, {"id": "B12.24.7", "lines": ["If Bahram can be captured still alive,", "The age may rest from war in which we strive."]}, {"id": "B12.24.8", "lines": ["Take all the seasoned warriors you require;", "His fame is great, his battle-heart is fire.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.9", "lines": ["Ruyin rode out, resolved to prove his might;", "He rode against him, eager for the fight."]}, {"id": "B12.24.10", "lines": ["Bahram sat on a mound against the foe,", "Shield overhead, the turning heavens low."]}, {"id": "B12.24.11", "lines": ["He poured such arrow-rain on all below,", "The shining moon turned lapis in its glow."]}, {"id": "B12.24.12", "lines": ["His arrows wounded Ruyin in the fight;", "The others’ hands and feet grew slack with fright."]}, {"id": "B12.24.13", "lines": ["They hurried back, afflicted by the fray,", "Their spirits darkened as they drew away."]}, {"id": "B12.24.14", "lines": ["They told Piran: “No foot-bound man, we say,", "No sea-bred nahang, ever fought this way.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.15", "lines": ["Piran was deeply shaken by the news,", "And trembled like a leaf storm-winds abuse."]}, {"id": "B12.24.16", "lines": ["He mounted then his fiery battle steed,", "And many warriors rode where he would lead."]}, {"id": "B12.24.17", "lines": ["He came to Bahram: “Famous chief,” he cried,", "“Why fight on foot, with foes on every side?"]}, {"id": "B12.24.18", "lines": ["In Turan, serving Siavash, you knew", "To stay reserved and judge what best to do."]}, {"id": "B12.24.19", "lines": ["We shared both bread and salt in former days,", "And sat as friends in honor’s common ways."]}, {"id": "B12.24.20", "lines": ["With lineage high and native worth so bright,", "With lion-hearted courage in the fight,"]}, {"id": "B12.24.21", "lines": ["Your lofty head should not be cast down low,", "Nor kin and country burn with grief and woe."]}, {"id": "B12.24.22", "lines": ["Come, let us swear a covenant by oath,", "A pledge to satisfy the hearts of both."]}, {"id": "B12.24.23", "lines": ["Then I shall bind you to my house as kin,", "And greater rank and honor you shall win."]}, {"id": "B12.24.24", "lines": ["On foot you cannot face this famed array;", "Do not betray yourself or cast life away.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.25", "lines": ["Bahram replied: “Wise Pahlevan, no sip", "Of drink, no food, three days has touched my lip."]}, {"id": "B12.24.26", "lines": ["I fought through every hour without a rest,", "And fight on, if you spurn my one request."]}, {"id": "B12.24.27", "lines": ["Unless you give a horse to carry me", "Back to Iran, where I am bound to be,"]}, {"id": "B12.24.28", "lines": ["Back to old Gudarz, Keshvad’s noble son;", "Then all my duty here will have been done.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.29", "lines": ["Piran replied: “Do you not know, brave youth,", "I cannot grant that wish and keep my truth?"]}, {"id": "B12.24.30", "lines": ["What I proposed remains the wiser way;", "You are brave; do not cast your life away."]}, {"id": "B12.24.31", "lines": ["Think what dishonor would my horsemen know,", "If after all you did I let you go."]}, {"id": "B12.24.32", "lines": ["So many scions of the great lie slain,", "Or wounded by your hand upon this plain."]}, {"id": "B12.24.33", "lines": ["Men crowned with diadems and trained for war", "Lie smeared with dust and drenched in streaming gore."]}, {"id": "B12.24.34", "lines": ["Who now could send you back to Iran’s land,", "With blood and brain aflame throughout our band?"]}, {"id": "B12.24.35", "lines": ["Were Afrasiab’s anger not so near,", "And were his wrath not turned against me here,"]}, {"id": "B12.24.36", "lines": ["I would provide a horse to carry you", "Back to your kin and ancient comrades true.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.37", "lines": ["He spoke, then turned his reins and went away,", "Love in his heart, but prudence ruled his way."]}, {"id": "B12.24.38", "lines": ["Then Tazhav came, whose strength no elephant bore,", "And asked what words with Bahram passed before."]}, {"id": "B12.24.39", "lines": ["Piran replied: “No warrior is his peer;", "No chief like brave Bahram has fought us here."]}, {"id": "B12.24.40", "lines": ["With kindness I showed him the wiser way,", "And offered league and honor in the fray."]}, {"id": "B12.24.41", "lines": ["But none of this could enter Bahram’s heart;", "He seeks Iran and wishes to depart.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.42", "lines": ["Tazhav replied: “Your love will not prevail;", "Such gentle counsel cannot turn his trail."]}, {"id": "B12.24.43", "lines": ["If I can seize him living on this plain,", "Beneath the stones I will crush his foul brain.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.44", "lines": ["He hurried to the field in wrathful speed,", "Where brave Bahram stood armed in bitter need."]}, {"id": "B12.24.45", "lines": ["When Tazhav saw Bahram with spear held high,", "He roared like a mad elephant beneath the sky:"]}, {"id": "B12.24.46", "lines": ["“On foot you face this whole renowned array,", "These mounted warriors gathered here today."]}, {"id": "B12.24.47", "lines": ["Do you still hope to reach Iran again,", "And raise your head among the proudest men?"]}, {"id": "B12.24.48", "lines": ["You cut the heads from princes of our race;", "Now your appointed hour has reached this place.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.49", "lines": ["He cried: “Close in! Let every weapon ring;", "With arrow, zhupin, khanjar strike and sting.”"]}, {"id": "B12.24.50", "lines": ["The warriors closed round him for the fight,", "While foremost chiefs pressed inward in their might."]}, {"id": "B12.24.51", "lines": ["The hero strung his bow and loosed his hail,", "Till arrows dimmed the heavens in their trail."]}, {"id": "B12.24.52", "lines": ["When arrows failed, his spear rose to the sky;", "A sea of blood spread mountain, plain nearby."]}, {"id": "B12.24.53", "lines": ["When his spear broke, he seized both gorz and sword;", "Blood splashed toward the dark cloud as he warred."]}, {"id": "B12.24.54", "lines": ["The fight continued thus; brave Bahram bled", "From shafts that struck his limbs, his breast, his head."]}, {"id": "B12.24.55", "lines": ["When strength and vigor failed him in the fight,", "Tazhav struck from behind with all his might."]}, {"id": "B12.24.56", "lines": ["His sword struck hard upon the shoulder’s crown;", "Face-first from off the mound came Bahram down."]}, {"id": "B12.24.57", "lines": ["His sword-hand, severed from his body, fell;", "No strength remained in Bahram to repel."]}, {"id": "B12.24.58", "lines": ["Even cruel Tazhav’s heart burned at the sight;", "His face flared red as fire beneath the night."]}, {"id": "B12.24.59", "lines": ["He turned away in anguish and in shame,", "While hot blood boiled within his heart like flame."]}, {"id": "B12.25.1", "lines": ["When the bright sun withdrew beyond the field,", "Giv’s heart grew heavy, grief no words could shield."]}, {"id": "B12.25.2", "lines": ["He spoke to Bijan: “Joy within my heart,", "My brother has not come; we must depart."]}, {"id": "B12.25.3", "lines": ["We must go forth to learn what fate decreed,", "Before we mourn for him, now lost and freed.”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.4", "lines": ["The pair through clouds of battle swiftly sped,", "Toward the field where wounded warriors bled."]}, {"id": "B12.25.5", "lines": ["They sought for Bahram through the wounded slain;", "The world itself seemed steeped in blood and pain."]}, {"id": "B12.25.6", "lines": ["At last they found him, rushed to where he lay,", "With blood-filled tears that streamed along their way."]}, {"id": "B12.25.7", "lines": ["One hand was severed; strength had left his frame,", "Yet breath remained; death had not made its claim."]}, {"id": "B12.25.8", "lines": ["Then gallant Giv sprang down beside the chief,", "And roared like a lion maddened by grief."]}, {"id": "B12.25.9", "lines": ["At that great cry Bahram opened his eyes;", "His body bloodied, wrath began to rise."]}, {"id": "B12.25.10", "lines": ["He said to Giv: “O seeker after fame,", "When in my tābut you have laid my frame,"]}, {"id": "B12.25.11", "lines": ["Avenge me upon Tazhav, that fierce bull;", "Let lion-claws repay his deed in full."]}, {"id": "B12.25.12", "lines": ["Piran, the son of Viseh, from the start", "Showed friendship to me with a generous heart."]}, {"id": "B12.25.13", "lines": ["The chiefs of Chin were first to seek my life,", "And came against me at the start of strife."]}, {"id": "B12.25.14", "lines": ["Then faithless Tazhav struck with treacherous might,", "Forgetful of his lineage and right.”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.15", "lines": ["When Bahram ceased, Giv’s yellow tears arose,", "And streamed from lashes in his bitter woes."]}, {"id": "B12.25.16", "lines": ["He swore: “By Maker, by the white day’s light,", "And by the lapis-blue expanse of night,"]}, {"id": "B12.25.17", "lines": ["Until I have avenged Bahram, now dead,", "No roof but Roman helm shall crown my head.”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.18", "lines": ["With grief and vengeance blazing in his breast,", "Indian sword in hand, he launched his quest."]}, {"id": "B12.25.19", "lines": ["When over earth the evening darkness grew,", "Tazhav from outpost watch and war withdrew."]}, {"id": "B12.25.20", "lines": ["Brave Giv beheld him, riding far from men,", "Then turned his rein and held his breath again."]}, {"id": "B12.25.21", "lines": ["For Tazhav rode past where his legion massed,", "Away from chiefs and champions, far he passed."]}, {"id": "B12.25.22", "lines": ["Giv cast his kamand in a looping cast,", "Around Tazhav’s waist the kamand held fast."]}, {"id": "B12.25.23", "lines": ["He slipped the kamand under Tazhav’s thigh,", "Then wheeled his charger sharply with a cry."]}, {"id": "B12.25.24", "lines": ["He dragged him crashing from the saddle, torn,", "And flung him through the dust with utter scorn."]}, {"id": "B12.25.25", "lines": ["Then Giv sprang down and bound the captive’s hands,", "His fury blazing over blood-soaked lands."]}, {"id": "B12.25.26", "lines": ["He mounted, dragging Tazhav through the plain,", "Who trailed like one insensible with pain."]}, {"id": "B12.25.27", "lines": ["Tazhav cried out: “O valiant man, now cease;", "No strength remains in me for war or peace."]}, {"id": "B12.25.28", "lines": ["What deed have I committed in your sight,", "That you show me dark Hell in this black night?”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.29", "lines": ["Then Giv struck twice a hundred blows in all,", "His whip across Tazhav’s head with every fall."]}, {"id": "B12.25.30", "lines": ["He answered: “Silence! You have planted hate;", "Now see the vengeance-tree that bears your fate."]}, {"id": "B12.25.31", "lines": ["Its height has climbed until it meets the sky;", "Its trunk drinks blood; a severed head hangs high."]}, {"id": "B12.25.32", "lines": ["Since Bahram was the quarry of your hunt,", "Now feel the nahang’s bite and bear its brunt."]}, {"id": "B12.25.33", "lines": ["The wound that stole Bahram’s heroic breath", "Has wrung my heart and filled my soul with death.”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.34", "lines": ["Tazhav replied: “You are the eagle high;", "I am the helpless lark beneath your sky."]}, {"id": "B12.25.35", "lines": ["I bore Bahram no hatred, none at all;", "I did not cause that noble man to fall."]}, {"id": "B12.25.36", "lines": ["The warriors of Chin had struck him down", "Before I came and found him on the ground.”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.37", "lines": ["Giv cried: “Corrupt and ruinous wretch, be still;", "Your pleas are wind against my iron will.”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.38", "lines": ["He dragged him back where wounded Bahram lay,", "And showed the bound man he had seized that day."]}, {"id": "B12.25.39", "lines": ["He said: “Behold this faithless head I bring;", "I pay the savage with a savage sting."]}, {"id": "B12.25.40", "lines": ["I thank the world-creating Maker’s grace", "That I have lived to see this hour and place."]}, {"id": "B12.25.41", "lines": ["Before your eyes I end this darkened foe,", "And rid your path of him before I go.”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.42", "lines": ["Tazhav begged respite: “Spare my head today;", "What profit if your khanjar cuts it away?”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.43", "lines": ["Before Bahram he wallowed in the dust:", "“O noble man, your mercy is my trust."]}, {"id": "B12.25.44", "lines": ["I shall become your servant from this hour,", "And tend your tomb while life is in my power.”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.45", "lines": ["Then Bahram said to Giv: “All men must die;", "The world gives breath and takes it with a sigh."]}, {"id": "B12.25.46", "lines": ["Though harm from him has reached me on this day,", "He need not taste death’s bitterness this way."]}, {"id": "B12.25.47", "lines": ["My soul-gift, ravan-dad, let him remain,", "To keep my name alive beyond this pain.”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.48", "lines": ["But Giv beheld his brother, wounded, torn,", "And Tazhav bound before him and forlorn."]}, {"id": "B12.25.49", "lines": ["Giv cried and seized Tazhav by his beard,", "Then lopped his head like lark as vengeance neared."]}, {"id": "B12.25.50", "lines": ["Then Giv’s heart burned at what his hand had done;", "Within his soul grief’s bitter fire had begun."]}, {"id": "B12.25.51", "lines": ["He wept blood-tears and raised a piercing cry,", "The strangest ever heard beneath the sky:"]}, {"id": "B12.25.52", "lines": ["“Whether I kill, or you kill in my sight,", "My brothers and my kinsmen die in fight!”"]}, {"id": "B12.25.53", "lines": ["When he had spoken, noble Bahram died;", "His spirit left his body as he sighed."]}, {"id": "B12.25.54", "lines": ["Whoever grasps the reins of greatness must", "First wash his hands in blood and battle-dust."]}, {"id": "B12.25.55", "lines": ["He kills or else is killed in grief and pain;", "Roam little through this world while days remain."]}, {"id": "B12.25.56", "lines": ["Giv wailed, dust on his head; he tied the dead", "Upon the steed; he mounted; Bijan led."]}, {"id": "B12.25.57", "lines": ["He bore him from Tazhav’s place, grief in his breast,", "And toward Iran they carried him to rest."]}, {"id": "B12.25.58", "lines": ["When far enough from that embattled ground,", "An eyvan-like dakhmeh they raised around."]}, {"id": "B12.25.59", "lines": ["With musk and ambergris they filled his head;", "In Chinese silk they wrapped the hero dead."]}, {"id": "B12.25.60", "lines": ["On ivory throne the honored form was spread;", "A crown was hung in honor overhead."]}, {"id": "B12.25.61", "lines": ["The dakhmeh’s crest they painted red and blue;", "As though brave Bahram vanished from their view."]}, {"id": "B12.25.62", "lines": ["The famous army bowed beneath grief’s weight,", "And mourned brave Bahram and the turn of fate."]}, {"id": "B12.26.1", "lines": ["When bright sun rose and over mountains shone,", "White day displayed its crown of light alone,"]}, {"id": "B12.26.2", "lines": ["The scattered troops began to gather near,", "And spoke among themselves in grief and fear:"]}, {"id": "B12.26.3", "lines": ["“Many warriors of Iran lie slain;", "Our leader’s fortune too has turned to pain."]}, {"id": "B12.26.4", "lines": ["So mighty were Turanian hands in fight,", "We cannot stay another day or night."]}, {"id": "B12.26.5", "lines": ["We must return before the royal throne,", "And learn what fate the Shah will make our own."]}, {"id": "B12.26.6", "lines": ["If war no longer fills the monarch’s mind,", "Then you and I may leave all war behind."]}, {"id": "B12.26.7", "lines": ["The fathers mourn their sons, the sons their sires;", "Most lie in pain or sorrow’s bitter fires."]}, {"id": "B12.26.8", "lines": ["But if the Shah commands us to engage,", "And arms a noble force in battle’s rage,"]}, {"id": "B12.26.9", "lines": ["Then we shall march with hearts of vengeful flame,", "And make the world too narrow for their name.”"]}, {"id": "B12.26.10", "lines": ["Resolved on this, from Turan they withdrew,", "With tear-filled eyes and hearts pierced through and through."]}, {"id": "B12.26.11", "lines": ["Brother mourned brother’s blood upon the plain,", "And every tongue gave voice to kindred pain."]}, {"id": "B12.26.12", "lines": ["Together toward the Kasa Rud they went,", "And blessed their fallen friends in their lament."]}, {"id": "B12.26.13", "lines": ["The scouts who rode before Turan’s force", "Saw no one left along the battle-course."]}, {"id": "B12.26.14", "lines": ["The tidings reached Piran, wise Viseh’s son:", "“The world is empty; Iran’s ranks have run.”"]}, {"id": "B12.26.15", "lines": ["Piran, when he had heard, made no delay,", "But sent out secret spies by every way."]}, {"id": "B12.26.16", "lines": ["When sure the Iranian chiefs had fled,", "He washed his spirit clean of grief and dread."]}, {"id": "B12.26.17", "lines": ["At daybreak with his army he drew near,", "And circled round the battlefield to peer."]}, {"id": "B12.26.18", "lines": ["Across the plains, the mountains, vale, ravine,", "Lay tents and tent-enclosures through the scene."]}, {"id": "B12.26.19", "lines": ["He shared the spoils among his fighting men,", "And marveled at the world’s strange workings then."]}, {"id": "B12.26.20", "lines": ["One day the world lifts men to joy and fame;", "The next brings fear and casts them down in shame."]}, {"id": "B12.26.21", "lines": ["The wisest course is still to lift the cup,", "And drink before our numbered days are up."]}, {"id": "B12.26.22", "lines": ["Piran dispatched a swift hiyun that night,", "To bear the news before the king in flight."]}, {"id": "B12.26.23", "lines": ["When Afrasiab heard Iran’s great fall,", "His heart found joy, released from grief and gall."]}, {"id": "B12.26.24", "lines": ["His army, light of heart in its delight,", "Adorned the road to greet the Pahlevan’s sight."]}, {"id": "B12.26.25", "lines": ["They decked the roofs and doorways, and they poured", "Showers of silver coins upon their lord."]}, {"id": "B12.26.26", "lines": ["As soon as he approached the royal place,", "Afrasiab came with troops to grant him grace."]}, {"id": "B12.26.27", "lines": ["He blessed him often, saying: “In my eyes,", "No peer of yours beneath the heavens can rise.”"]}, {"id": "B12.26.28", "lines": ["Within the eyvan music rose in streams,", "As chang and rabab sounded two weeks’ themes."]}, {"id": "B12.26.29", "lines": ["Upon the third week, wise Piran prepared", "To journey home with joy and honor shared."]}, {"id": "B12.26.30", "lines": ["The king of Turan gave a robe of state,", "A rich khilat whose worth was vast and great:"]}, {"id": "B12.26.31", "lines": ["Dinars and jewels, royal belts of gold,", "With gems in settings wondrous to behold;"]}, {"id": "B12.26.32", "lines": ["Arab steeds with golden harness bright,", "Indian swords in sheaths of golden light;"]}, {"id": "B12.26.33", "lines": ["A throne of teak and ivory inlaid,", "A turquoise couch, a ruby crown displayed;"]}, {"id": "B12.26.34", "lines": ["Girls brought from Chin and boys from Rum beside,", "Two turquoise cups with musk, ambergris inside."]}, {"id": "B12.26.35", "lines": ["All this upon the Pahlevan he spent,", "Then counseled him before the hero went."]}, {"id": "B12.26.36", "lines": ["“My loyal hero, keep the prudent way;", "Stay with the Mobadan, alert each day."]}, {"id": "B12.26.37", "lines": ["Guard well the army from the lurking foe;", "Send wise scouts out wherever roads may go."]}, {"id": "B12.26.38", "lines": ["For Kay Khosrow has wealth and royal state;", "Justice and bounty make his kingdom great."]}, {"id": "B12.26.39", "lines": ["His noble blood, his greatness, crown, and throne", "Unite in royal right that is his own."]}, {"id": "B12.26.40", "lines": ["Do not feel safe because the foe withdrew;", "Seek fresh reports each hour, exact and new."]}, {"id": "B12.26.41", "lines": ["Your soul will suffer if you sleep at ease", "While Rostam lives, whose wrath no gifts appease."]}, {"id": "B12.26.42", "lines": ["He is the only man who troubles me;", "Revenge is all the purpose he can see."]}, {"id": "B12.26.43", "lines": ["I fear that he will rouse himself one day,", "And lead Iran’s armies toward our way.”"]}, {"id": "B12.26.44", "lines": ["Piran, both captain and the monarch’s kin,", "Accepted every word and took it in."]}, {"id": "B12.26.45", "lines": ["Then Piran and his gathered fighting band", "Set out toward Khutan across the land."]}, {"id": "B12.26.46", "lines": ["Now Prince Forood’s long tale has reached its close;", "Hear next of Kamus and the war that rose."]}]}, {"id": "B13", "title": "Mount Hamavan and the Kamus Campaign", "summary": "32 sections · 1,577 couplets", "path": "/poem/b13/", "couplets": [{"id": "B13.1.1", "lines": ["In His name, Yazdan of moon and sun,", "Whose name through wisdom leads the heart to One,"]}, {"id": "B13.1.2", "lines": ["Lord of existence, all that is true, straight,", "Who wants no crookedness, no flawed estate;"]}, {"id": "B13.1.3", "lines": ["Yazdan of Saturn, Mars, the sun’s bright sphere;", "From Him glad tidings come, and hope, and fear."]}, {"id": "B13.1.4", "lines": ["I know not how to praise Him, though my mind", "In thought would pour my soul, all else resigned."]}, {"id": "B13.1.5", "lines": ["He fashioned place and time by His command;", "The ant’s small footprint witnesses His hand."]}, {"id": "B13.1.6", "lines": ["From circling sun to dark earth at our feet,", "His signs in heaven and on earth all meet."]}, {"id": "B13.1.7", "lines": ["Bright fire and air and water all attest", "That Yazdan lives, and by His truth are blessed."]}, {"id": "B13.1.8", "lines": ["Revere the Maker, needing no one’s care,", "No crown, no throne, no minister anywhere;"]}, {"id": "B13.1.9", "lines": ["No treasurer, no less or more He needs;", "No fortune’s favor shapes His will or deeds."]}, {"id": "B13.1.10", "lines": ["Though He needs nothing, still His servants bow,", "Beneath His will and counsel even now."]}, {"id": "B13.1.11", "lines": ["Since He made wisdom and discerning mind,", "And set the stars in heaven’s frame aligned,"]}, {"id": "B13.1.12", "lines": ["Know Him supreme, Creator over all,", "Whose will makes joy arise and sorrow fall."]}, {"id": "B13.1.13", "lines": ["From Him come night and day and circling skies,", "Food, sleep, wrath, love beneath His will arise."]}, {"id": "B13.1.14", "lines": ["Of Rostam’s deeds the world has heard the tale;", "His fame through every heart and age prevails."]}, {"id": "B13.1.15", "lines": ["In water like a nahang, fierce in fray;", "On land, war’s elephant that none could stay."]}, {"id": "B13.1.16", "lines": ["Wise, shrewd of heart, a man for battle made,", "In war and valor master of the blade."]}, {"id": "B13.1.17", "lines": ["A man of knowledge, wit, and weight was he,", "And wise in war as any man could be."]}, {"id": "B13.1.18", "lines": ["His war with great Kamus I now recite,", "From written record now I bring to light."]}, {"id": "B13.1.19", "lines": ["Now turn and hear the rustic minstrel’s lay,", "And mark what one world-tested has to say."]}, {"id": "B13.2.1", "lines": ["Fariborz and the breaker, Giv, now led, ", "With aged Gudarz, ranks whose hearts knew dread."]}, {"id": "B13.2.2", "lines": ["Their cheeks were wet with tears, their hearts beset", "By grief for all the ruin they had met."]}, {"id": "B13.2.3", "lines": ["When they had reached along the Charam way,", "Kalat rose high; below, Mayam’s waters lay."]}, {"id": "B13.2.4", "lines": ["They spoke of how they fought Forood that day;", "Their only gain was grief and dark dismay."]}, {"id": "B13.2.5", "lines": ["Fear of the Shah filled every heart with pain,", "For guilt was theirs, and blood-tears fell like rain."]}, {"id": "B13.2.6", "lines": ["They came before Khosrow with spirits down,", "Ashamed and guilty there before the crown."]}, {"id": "B13.2.7", "lines": ["They had destroyed his guiltless brother’s life,", "And yielded crown and signet in the strife."]}, {"id": "B13.2.8", "lines": ["With folded arms and hearts consumed by pain,", "Like servants they stood silent in his train."]}, {"id": "B13.2.9", "lines": ["Khosrow beheld them with an angry gaze,", "His heart in pain, his eyes in tearful haze."]}, {"id": "B13.2.10", "lines": ["He spoke: “O righteous Judge, by whose decree", "Came throne and fortune, honar, all to me,"]}, {"id": "B13.2.11", "lines": ["Now I stand shamed before Your searching view;", "The why and how are better known to You."]}, {"id": "B13.2.12", "lines": ["Else I would order in the open plain", "A thousand stakes to rise for all this stain."]}, {"id": "B13.2.13", "lines": ["Then Tus and all who carried arms with him", "Would hang impaled, their names forever dim."]}, {"id": "B13.2.14", "lines": ["I mourned my father’s death in bitter grief;", "My heart was filled with sorrow past relief."]}, {"id": "B13.2.15", "lines": ["Forood too calls for vengeance to be done:", "The head must fall of Nohzar’s warrior son."]}, {"id": "B13.2.16", "lines": ["I said: ‘Avoid Kalat; from Charam stay,", "Though silver coins be showered along your way.’"]}, {"id": "B13.2.17", "lines": ["Forood dwelt peaceful with his mother still, ", "My brother, framed with Kayan blood and skill."]}, {"id": "B13.2.18", "lines": ["He is a warrior of the Kayan race;", "How could he know why Tus approached that place?"]}, {"id": "B13.2.19", "lines": ["From mountain height he would attack his foe,", "And many chiefs would fall beneath his blow."]}, {"id": "B13.2.20", "lines": ["Why did hard-hearted Tus, in reckless haste,", "March toward that hold and lay my counsel waste?"]}, {"id": "B13.2.21", "lines": ["The Master of the sky withdrew His grace", "From Tus and all the army in that place."]}, {"id": "B13.2.22", "lines": ["The house of Gudarz suffered for his pride;", "Curse Tus, his koust, his elephants beside."]}, {"id": "B13.2.23", "lines": ["I gave him khilat, counsel from my hand,", "And sent him forth; he struck his kindred band."]}, {"id": "B13.2.24", "lines": ["Alas, Forood, of Siavash’s own seed, ", "A hero proven in both word and deed,"]}, {"id": "B13.2.25", "lines": ["Like his great father, innocent, was slain", "By my own chief and army on the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.2.26", "lines": ["I know none worse than Tus; he now is fit", "For chains, the dungeon, and the blackest pit."]}, {"id": "B13.2.27", "lines": ["No brain within his head, no vein in frame;", "To me base Tus and dog are much the same.”"]}, {"id": "B13.2.28", "lines": ["He writhed to seek revenge for both the dead:", "His murdered father and Forood, who bled."]}, {"id": "B13.2.29", "lines": ["He sent the troops away in deep disgrace,", "While blood-tears streamed in torrents down his face."]}, {"id": "B13.2.30", "lines": ["He shut the audience chamber’s guarded door,", "His wounded soul grieved young Forood the more."]}, {"id": "B13.2.31", "lines": ["The warriors, sad, sorry, then withdrew,", "And toward the court of mighty Rostam drew."]}, {"id": "B13.2.32", "lines": ["They said: “By God’s decree this thing was done;", "Who wished to fight Forood, the noble son?"]}, {"id": "B13.2.33", "lines": ["Yet when brave Zarasp, Tus’s son, was killed,", "The chiefs with grief and dark regret were filled."]}, {"id": "B13.2.34", "lines": ["And when his son-in-law, brave Rivniz, died,", "Disaster darkened all the Iranian side."]}, {"id": "B13.2.35", "lines": ["Who knew Forood by lineage or name,", "Or wished against the Shah to kindle flame?"]}, {"id": "B13.2.36", "lines": ["Plead with the Shah; still young, he may refrain", "From vengeance on the troops and end this pain."]}, {"id": "B13.2.37", "lines": ["Was not brave Forood, prince of royal breed, ", "A noble shoot of King Kavus’s seed?"]}, {"id": "B13.2.38", "lines": ["A younger prince of Kay, well-bred for war, ", "A moon-faced youth whom we shall see no more."]}, {"id": "B13.2.39", "lines": ["Thus battle ends, whatever men may crave:", "To one a crown, to one a narrow grave.”"]}, {"id": "B13.3.1", "lines": ["When sunlight gilded earth’s awakened face,", "And snared dark night within its shadowed place,"]}, {"id": "B13.3.2", "lines": ["Loud shouts arose before the palace gate;", "Then peerless Rostam came to plead their fate."]}, {"id": "B13.3.3", "lines": ["He said: “Great Shah, may throne and crown and ring", "Rejoice in you, the world’s appointed king."]}, {"id": "B13.3.4", "lines": ["Though Tus and all the army earned your blame,", "Forgive their wrong for Rostam’s sake and name."]}, {"id": "B13.3.5", "lines": ["When Tus saw son and son-in-law lie slain,", "All prudence left him, overcome by pain."]}, {"id": "B13.3.6", "lines": ["By nature rash, his wisdom soon can stray;", "A son’s dear life is no small thing to weigh."]}, {"id": "B13.3.7", "lines": ["When brave Rivniz was slaughtered in his sight,", "And proud Zarasp lay ruined in the fight,"]}, {"id": "B13.3.8", "lines": ["No wonder if his heart blazed fierce with flame;", "The Shah should hold him guiltless of the same."]}, {"id": "B13.3.9", "lines": ["The ranks bore anger toward your brother too,", "For he had never come before your view."]}, {"id": "B13.3.10", "lines": ["Know this: the date when every man must die", "Is fixed beneath the turning of the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.3.11", "lines": ["The spirit passes when its term is spent,", "Or else from flesh by violence is rent."]}, {"id": "B13.3.12", "lines": ["Three hundred spells cannot delay that breath,", "Nor hold one soul back from the road of death.”"]}, {"id": "B13.3.13", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow answered: “Pahlevan, my grief", "For that young prince has found no true relief."]}, {"id": "B13.3.14", "lines": ["Your counsel now is medicine to my soul,", "Though pain still writhes within and takes its toll.”"]}, {"id": "B13.3.15", "lines": ["Then Rostam kissed the ground before the king,", "And honored him as lord of everything."]}, {"id": "B13.3.16", "lines": ["Next morning sunlight shot its shafts on high,", "And climbed the curve of its appointed sky."]}, {"id": "B13.3.17", "lines": ["It tore apart the turquoise robe of night,", "And showed its ruddy face in morning light."]}, {"id": "B13.3.18", "lines": ["Then Tus and Giv and other warriors came", "Before the Shah with blessings on his name."]}, {"id": "B13.3.19", "lines": ["Tus said: “May fortune bless you year by year,", "As long as time and turning heaven appear."]}, {"id": "B13.3.20", "lines": ["May earth serve crown and throne in your domain;", "May heaven grant farr and fortune to your reign."]}, {"id": "B13.3.21", "lines": ["My heart knows grief; my wounded liver bleeds;", "My mind knows shame; my tongue for pardon pleads."]}, {"id": "B13.3.22", "lines": ["Forood and Zarasp haunt my soul with blame;", "Like Azargashasp I burn in inward flame."]}, {"id": "B13.3.23", "lines": ["If I bear greater guilt than other men,", "My soul is wrung by that same guilt again."]}, {"id": "B13.3.24", "lines": ["Beside Bahram and noble Rivniz weighed,", "My life is worth no mite that could be paid."]}, {"id": "B13.3.25", "lines": ["If now the Shah will pardon me this blame,", "And pardon this renowned army’s shame,"]}, {"id": "B13.3.26", "lines": ["I will go forth to wipe this shame away,", "And lift our fallen heads to honor’s day."]}, {"id": "B13.3.27", "lines": ["I shall bear every hardship with the men,", "Whether I take a life or give mine then."]}, {"id": "B13.3.28", "lines": ["From now on I renounce both crown and throne;", "My Roman helm shall be the crown I own.”"]}, {"id": "B13.3.29", "lines": ["The monarch graciously received his plea;", "His heart grew fresh as blossoms on the tree."]}, {"id": "B13.3.30", "lines": ["He told the chiefs and Rostam all his view;", "Then Rostam and the gathered men withdrew."]}, {"id": "B13.4.1", "lines": ["When sunlight rose and night began to go,", "And dawn broke brightly from night’s curving bow,"]}, {"id": "B13.4.2", "lines": ["Then Tus approached with Iran’s chiefs beside;", "Before Khosrow they stood in ordered pride."]}, {"id": "B13.4.3", "lines": ["They stood before Khosrow, who said: “This feud", "Has fed on blood and never been subdued."]}, {"id": "B13.4.4", "lines": ["Begun by Salm and Tur in ancient years,", "It grew through Manuchehr’s avenging spears."]}, {"id": "B13.4.5", "lines": ["Yet never was a Shah so shamed as I,", "Nor earth so drenched where Iran’s warriors lie."]}, {"id": "B13.4.6", "lines": ["The hills are girded with Gudarzian gore,", "A bloody zunnar binds the mountain’s core."]}, {"id": "B13.4.7", "lines": ["For them the bird and fish lament and weep,", "On mountain heights and in the ocean deep."]}, {"id": "B13.4.8", "lines": ["Across Turan lie heads and hands of slain;", "Feet, backs, and waists are scattered on the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.4.9", "lines": ["Is all your thought for pleasure and delight?", "Does vengeance never stir your hearts to fight?”"]}, {"id": "B13.4.10", "lines": ["The gallant warriors folded arms and came", "Before that sunlike Shah of royal flame."]}, {"id": "B13.4.11", "lines": ["Together all the warriors kissed the ground:", "Rohham and Gorgin, Tus, Gudarz renowned,"]}, {"id": "B13.4.12", "lines": ["Kharrad and Zangeh, Shavaran’s bold son,", "With Bijan, Giv, and chiefs famed one by one."]}, {"id": "B13.4.13", "lines": ["They said: “Star-favored Shah, whose sword in fight", "Tears lions’ hearts and puts their strength to flight,"]}, {"id": "B13.4.14", "lines": ["We all are servants, bound beneath your name,", "And bow our heads before you now in shame."]}, {"id": "B13.4.15", "lines": ["If now the Shah commands us to the field,", "Our heads and lives are his, and none shall yield."]}, {"id": "B13.4.16", "lines": ["No fault from us shall ever reach your sight,", "If sun and moon keep fortune’s face alight.”"]}, {"id": "B13.4.17", "lines": ["Khosrow then summoned Giv and set him high,", "Upon a seat where honors touched the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.4.18", "lines": ["He praised him much, and khilats he bestowed;", "He spoke, and favor in his features glowed:"]}, {"id": "B13.4.19", "lines": ["“You seek out hardship for my royal need,", "Yet take no share of treasure for your deed."]}, {"id": "B13.4.20", "lines": ["Though Tus commands, his army shall not go", "With elephants and koust if you say no."]}, {"id": "B13.4.21", "lines": ["Do not let rashness make a small thing dire;", "May Bahram’s spirit shine with blessed fire."]}, {"id": "B13.4.22", "lines": ["Through evil counsel and the fear of shame,", "He made the world grow dark in honor’s name.”"]}, {"id": "B13.4.23", "lines": ["Khosrow gave silver, called the paymasters near,", "And spoke with Tus, his counsel firm and clear."]}, {"id": "B13.4.24", "lines": ["“Though brief our stay beneath the turning sky,", "Let fame remain when we are called to die.”"]}, {"id": "B13.4.25", "lines": ["He searched the stars to choose a favored day", "For Tus and all the troops to take the way."]}, {"id": "B13.4.26", "lines": ["Then Tus came forth, sepahbod of the fight,", "With elephants and koust arrayed in might."]}, {"id": "B13.4.27", "lines": ["He gave to Tus Kaviani standard bright,", "In Kayan custom, girded now to smite."]}, {"id": "B13.4.28", "lines": ["He blessed the chief; a mighty shout arose,", "And earth boiled under hooves in thunderous throes."]}, {"id": "B13.4.29", "lines": ["A cloud of dust rose dark beneath their tread;", "The gavdam karnay roared above each head."]}, {"id": "B13.4.30", "lines": ["With jowshan and the Kaviani standard bright,", "The whole world’s face turned violet in their sight."]}, {"id": "B13.4.31", "lines": ["The sun seemed drowned in water to the eye,", "While heaven and stars slept deep across the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.4.32", "lines": ["The Shah stayed on the plain till Tus passed through;", "His elephant bore to Shahd the mahd of blue."]}, {"id": "B13.5.1", "lines": ["A wind-swift hiyun sped without delay,", "And brought Piran this challenge straightaway:"]}, {"id": "B13.5.2", "lines": ["“At Shahd, prepared for war, I hold my ground,", "My neck raised high, for battle I am bound.”"]}, {"id": "B13.5.3", "lines": ["Piran was grieved to hear the challenge made;", "Against his will, his loads on elephants were laid."]}, {"id": "B13.5.4", "lines": ["He rode with chosen chiefs, a valiant band,", "With picked brave horsemen gathered at his hand."]}, {"id": "B13.5.5", "lines": ["He sought to learn the Iranian array,", "And which great chiefs with Tus had joined the fray."]}, {"id": "B13.5.6", "lines": ["He drew his troops beside the river’s strand,", "And sent kind greetings to Iran’s command."]}, {"id": "B13.5.7", "lines": ["Across the stream stood Tus with Iran’s might,", "With koust and elephants, the standard bright."]}, {"id": "B13.5.8", "lines": ["A smooth-tongued Turanian he chose,", "And sent him where the Iranian standard rose."]}, {"id": "B13.5.9", "lines": ["He said: “I showed all kindness from the start", "To Farangis and Khosrow from my heart."]}, {"id": "B13.5.10", "lines": ["For Siavash I wept in bitter grief,", "And boiled on fire that granted no relief."]}, {"id": "B13.5.11", "lines": ["But now the nush-daru has turned to bane;", "From all my good has come but grief and pain.”"]}, {"id": "B13.5.12", "lines": ["Tus heard Piran’s words, and felt sorrow’s chain,", "His heart grew sorrowful beneath the strain."]}, {"id": "B13.5.13", "lines": ["Then Tus replied: “Ride to Piran, and bear,", "O bright-souled chief, these words of mine declare:"]}, {"id": "B13.5.14", "lines": ["‘If what you tell me now is truly said,", "No feud between us need raise up its head."]}, {"id": "B13.5.15", "lines": ["Free now your head; withdraw from this array,", "Shut fear’s dark door and loss’s fatal way."]}, {"id": "B13.5.16", "lines": ["Go to Iran’s Shah without an armed band;", "He will repay the goodness of your hand."]}, {"id": "B13.5.17", "lines": ["He will grant you Pahlevan’s rank, a crown,", "And lift your honored head to high renown."]}, {"id": "B13.5.18", "lines": ["When he recalls the good that you have shown,", "Your pain will grieve his heart as if his own."]}, {"id": "B13.5.19", "lines": ["Gudarz and Giv, and chiefs of prudent heart,", "All stand agreed and choose the wiser part.’”"]}, {"id": "B13.5.20", "lines": ["The envoy rode like wind across the field,", "And brought Piran the answer Tus revealed."]}, {"id": "B13.5.21", "lines": ["He told what Tus and clear-souled Gudarz said,", "And faithfully their counsels there he spread."]}, {"id": "B13.5.22", "lines": ["Piran replied: “For all my days, my tongue", "Will praise chief Tus where noble deeds are sung."]}, {"id": "B13.5.23", "lines": ["I shall come over with my wisest kin,", "All those whose hearts my counsel yet may win."]}, {"id": "B13.5.24", "lines": ["I will cross to Iran with my wealth and gear;", "An honored head makes crown and throne less dear.”"]}, {"id": "B13.5.25", "lines": ["He did not mean to act on what was said,", "But sought a better hour and chance instead."]}, {"id": "B13.6.1", "lines": ["By night Piran sent forth a swift hiyun,", "To Afrasiab, bearing word there soon."]}, {"id": "B13.6.2", "lines": ["He said: “Iran’s troops have now reached the field,", "With shawms and koust, their battle ranks revealed."]}, {"id": "B13.6.3", "lines": ["With Giv and Gudarz, Tus leads their line;", "I answered them with guile and dark design."]}, {"id": "B13.6.4", "lines": ["Choose now a proven force, or war will stain", "Our name with shame across the battle-plain."]}, {"id": "B13.6.5", "lines": ["Perhaps we uproot all their realm and land,", "And tear their rooted power from where they stand;"]}, {"id": "B13.6.6", "lines": ["Their royal throne and treasure we shall burn,", "And all their gathered riches overturn."]}, {"id": "B13.6.7", "lines": ["For Siavash they come with vengeance pressed;", "Their Shah and army will not turn to rest.”"]}, {"id": "B13.6.8", "lines": ["Afrasiab called all his captains then,", "And told the news before those fighting men."]}, {"id": "B13.6.9", "lines": ["He cried: “Prepare for war.” A force he raised,", "So vast the sun’s own eye was dimmed and dazed."]}, {"id": "B13.6.10", "lines": ["The earth lay hidden under their array;", "By the tenth dawn they reached Piran that day."]}, {"id": "B13.6.11", "lines": ["When troops had rested, Piran fed each band,", "Then loaded baggage and resumed command."]}, {"id": "B13.6.12", "lines": ["He broke his oath and cast its memory by,", "Then rushed to Shahd where river waters lie."]}, {"id": "B13.6.13", "lines": ["A scout rode swiftly up to Tus and cried:", "“Bind koust on elephants; the pact has died."]}, {"id": "B13.6.14", "lines": ["Piran, who sees his downfall drawing near,", "Has dealt in guile; his falsehood now is clear."]}, {"id": "B13.6.15", "lines": ["We see the wrongdoer’s standard by the stream,", "His army ranked along the water’s seam.”"]}, {"id": "B13.6.16", "lines": ["Then Tus arrayed his army on the plain,", "With elephants and koust in martial train."]}, {"id": "B13.6.17", "lines": ["The lines, like mountains, crashed in wrathful fight,", "Iranian horse against Turanian might."]}, {"id": "B13.6.18", "lines": ["The dust of armies rose and dimmed the sun;", "From river water flames appeared to run."]}, {"id": "B13.6.19", "lines": ["Sword, zhupin, javelin filled the air with gloom,", "As though in night red tulips burst in bloom."]}, {"id": "B13.6.20", "lines": ["Gold helms and shields flashed bright across the fray;", "Gold belts on jowshan gleamed beneath the day."]}, {"id": "B13.6.21", "lines": ["A sandarac-hued cloud obscured the sky;", "Dust turned the earth to ebony nearby."]}, {"id": "B13.6.22", "lines": ["Chiefs’ helms beneath the heavy gopal rang,", "Like anvils struck by smiths as hammers sang."]}, {"id": "B13.6.23", "lines": ["The river like a winepress ran blood-red;", "A reed-bed of tall spears above it spread."]}, {"id": "B13.6.24", "lines": ["Full many heads were caught in kamand snare,", "And honored bodies humbled everywhere."]}, {"id": "B13.6.25", "lines": ["Jowshans their shroud, blood-dust their resting bed;", "The sword split pampered bodies where they bled."]}, {"id": "B13.6.26", "lines": ["Earth bloomed like arghavan, air black as night,", "While koust filled heaven and stars with roaring might."]}, {"id": "B13.6.27", "lines": ["Whether the world-seeker wins a crown,", "Or turns to dust when battle strikes him down,"]}, {"id": "B13.6.28", "lines": ["Unwilling, each must leave what he may gain,", "Whether his lot be nush-daru or bane."]}, {"id": "B13.6.29", "lines": ["I know not what the final end may be;", "This going only calls for tears from me."]}, {"id": "B13.7.1", "lines": ["Among Turan was Arzhang, famed in fight,", "Whose battle-name had climbed the clouds’ full height."]}, {"id": "B13.7.2", "lines": ["He raised the dust across the open plain,", "And challenged Iran’s champions in disdain."]}, {"id": "B13.7.3", "lines": ["Tus saw him from afar and roared out clear,", "Then drew his sword and swiftly hastened near."]}, {"id": "B13.7.4", "lines": ["He asked the son of Zereh: “Speak your name.", "What warrior of Turan can match your fame?”"]}, {"id": "B13.7.5", "lines": ["He said: “Arzhang am I, renowned in fight,", "A steadfast lion, patient in his might."]}, {"id": "B13.7.6", "lines": ["Now earth beneath your feet shall quake today,", "And I shall cast your head upon the fray.”"]}, {"id": "B13.7.7", "lines": ["The son of Zereh spoke; Tus heard him through,", "Iran’s sepahbod knew what he would do."]}, {"id": "B13.7.8", "lines": ["No need for speech; no further words were made;", "His answer was the tempered, shining blade."]}, {"id": "B13.7.9", "lines": ["He struck his helm and head with such a force,", "It seemed no head had crowned him on his horse."]}, {"id": "B13.7.10", "lines": ["Then horn and koust from Iran’s army rang:", "“May Tus be victorious!” rose the clang."]}, {"id": "B13.7.11", "lines": ["Piran and all Turan were plunged in woe;", "The field stood emptied of Turanian foe."]}, {"id": "B13.7.12", "lines": ["Then all Turan’s great chieftains drew the sword,", "And raised their heavy gorz with one accord."]}, {"id": "B13.7.13", "lines": ["Those lions shouted: “All as one, take part,", "And make the world grow narrow to Tus’s heart!”"]}, {"id": "B13.7.14", "lines": ["Then Houman said: “Today we must prepare.", "Do not lose heart or sink into despair."]}, {"id": "B13.7.15", "lines": ["If one of Iran’s champions comes to fight,", "And seeks a single combat in our sight,"]}, {"id": "B13.7.16", "lines": ["Send one brave man to meet him in the field,", "And see what fate time’s turning wheel will yield."]}, {"id": "B13.7.17", "lines": ["But let us not provoke them; let them stay,", "And grant them one day’s respite for today."]}, {"id": "B13.7.18", "lines": ["When tabira from the pavilion rings,", "And battle through the waiting army springs,"]}, {"id": "B13.7.19", "lines": ["Then all at once we raise our heavy gorz,", "And sweep from riverbank with gathered force."]}, {"id": "B13.7.20", "lines": ["We shall attack as one in fierce array,", "If Yazdan and good fortune clear our way.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.1", "lines": ["Then Houman mounted on his eagle-steed,", "And spurred toward the field where warriors bleed."]}, {"id": "B13.8.2", "lines": ["He seemed an iron wall before their eyes,", "Or Mount Alborz in jowshan scraping skies."]}, {"id": "B13.8.3", "lines": ["He came before the men prepared to fight,", "And grasped a spear that glittered in the light."]}, {"id": "B13.8.4", "lines": ["Tus too advanced; the earth rang far and wide,", "While brazen karnays thundered at his side."]}, {"id": "B13.8.5", "lines": ["He cried: “From luckless Viseh’s root has grown", "A bitter tree whose wretched fruit is known."]}, {"id": "B13.8.6", "lines": ["Have you come mounted, spear in hand, for strife,", "To seek revenge and hazard here your life?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.7", "lines": ["By Khosrow’s life, I will then face your might,", "No jowshan, gorz, or Roman helm in sight."]}, {"id": "B13.8.8", "lines": ["Like mountain leopard springing on its prey,", "I would seize you and drag you down today."]}, {"id": "B13.8.9", "lines": ["If you have courage, you shall learn outright", "How heroes meet their enemies in fight.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.10", "lines": ["Houman replied: “Do not grow proud in speech;", "Such arrogance should stand beyond your reach."]}, {"id": "B13.8.11", "lines": ["Though fate has struck one luckless chief through you,", "Do not despise all Turan’s warriors too."]}, {"id": "B13.8.12", "lines": ["Arzhang would count himself no warrior then,", "If measured beside me among brave men."]}, {"id": "B13.8.13", "lines": ["Have Iran’s warriors no shame at all,", "That their sepahbod answers battle’s call?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.14", "lines": ["Does no hot blood in any bosom boil,", "That you must take the challenge and the toil?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.15", "lines": ["Have all their fighting hands grown weak and slow?", "Where are Bijan and Giv before the foe?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.16", "lines": ["Where is Gudarz, son of Keshvad renowned,", "That world-seizer whose name has shaken ground?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.17", "lines": ["If you are a chief, why now leave the line,", "And seek the duel where lone weapons shine?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.18", "lines": ["The wise will call you stranger from this day;", "The sane will call you mad and turn away."]}, {"id": "B13.8.19", "lines": ["Go, hold the Kaviani standard’s place;", "Sepahbods should not meet men face to face."]}, {"id": "B13.8.20", "lines": ["Seek one whom royal khilat marks with fame,", "A tested chief who seeks a warrior’s name."]}, {"id": "B13.8.21", "lines": ["Choose one who seeks the signet and the crown,", "And send him forth to strike a warrior down."]}, {"id": "B13.8.22", "lines": ["Let him bring down a warrior like me,", "And prove Iran’s strength for all eyes to see."]}, {"id": "B13.8.23", "lines": ["It would go ill with all this band of yours", "If you were slain amid these battle-roars."]}, {"id": "B13.8.24", "lines": ["Your troops would be forsaken, overrun,", "Their hearts cast down beneath the darkened sun."]}, {"id": "B13.8.25", "lines": ["If they survived, they would be broken still,", "With shame and fear beneath the foeman’s will."]}, {"id": "B13.8.26", "lines": ["Apart from Rostam, mighty Zal’s own heir,", "And Sahm, whose mounted fame all men declare,"]}, {"id": "B13.8.27", "lines": ["I see no noble like you in the land,", "Whose royal fathers held a king’s command."]}, {"id": "B13.8.28", "lines": ["What need of armies if you fight alone?", "Go back and send some chief who is well known."]}, {"id": "B13.8.29", "lines": ["And if you heed the counsel I declare,", "Which heart and soul and tongue together share,"]}, {"id": "B13.8.30", "lines": ["The bravest learn when they encounter me", "What pain in battle and hard steel can be.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.31", "lines": ["Then Tus replied: “Exalted chief of might,", "I lead the line, yet still I seek the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.8.32", "lines": ["You lead the foremost warriors of your side;", "Why come to face me where the champions ride?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.33", "lines": ["If your heart takes the counsel that I give,", "Seek league with me, and let your honor live."]}, {"id": "B13.8.34", "lines": ["Come with Piran, your captain, from the field", "Before the Shah, where honor shall be sealed."]}, {"id": "B13.8.35", "lines": ["While one man lives among our fighting band,", "Revenge will burn while one of us can stand."]}, {"id": "B13.8.36", "lines": ["Do not cast life and honor both away;", "Let wise advice restore your heart today."]}, {"id": "B13.8.37", "lines": ["Leave those who must be slain to fight our line;", "No guilty man escapes the Shah’s design."]}, {"id": "B13.8.38", "lines": ["So take the wise man’s path and understand:", "The Shah has given this order to my hand:"]}, {"id": "B13.8.39", "lines": ["‘Do not harm Piran; keep his honor clear,", "My foster-father, specially held dear."]}, {"id": "B13.8.40", "lines": ["World-tested, noble, wise, my trusted friend;", "Against him unjust battle do not send."]}, {"id": "B13.8.41", "lines": ["See that he heeds the counsel you have made;", "Let no unjust desire unsheathe the blade.’”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.42", "lines": ["Houman replied: “Through right or wrong or death,", "When kings command, we go with loyal breath."]}, {"id": "B13.8.43", "lines": ["We have no remedy, no path but this;", "We serve the king in hardship or in bliss."]}, {"id": "B13.8.44", "lines": ["Piran himself did not desire this fight;", "His soul is generous, his counsel right.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.45", "lines": ["While Tus still parleyed, Giv’s face burned with shame,", "Like sandarac touched by a rising flame."]}, {"id": "B13.8.46", "lines": ["He left the band and spurred across the plain,", "While wrath surged through his heart and every vein."]}, {"id": "B13.8.47", "lines": ["“O Tus,” he cried, “of noble race and name,", "Why let this false Turanian bring you blame?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.48", "lines": ["Between the lines he foams and talks too long;", "Seek no accord where every word is wrong."]}, {"id": "B13.8.49", "lines": ["Speak only with your sharp and tempered blade,", "And let your sword reply where words have strayed.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.50", "lines": ["When Houman heard, his heart was set afire;", "He turned on Giv and spoke in bitter ire:"]}, {"id": "B13.8.51", "lines": ["“O luckless man, may Gudarz perish too;", "At Ladan’s field you saw what I could do."]}, {"id": "B13.8.52", "lines": ["You saw my Indian sword there in the fray,", "Where Keshvad’s fighting seed opposed my way."]}, {"id": "B13.8.53", "lines": ["Of Keshvad’s seed no warrior could evade", "The written charter of my tempered blade."]}, {"id": "B13.8.54", "lines": ["Your fortune wears dark Ahriman’s own face,", "And casts its shadow over all your race."]}, {"id": "B13.8.55", "lines": ["Mourning forever dwells within your door;", "Your house has drunk deep from grief’s endless store."]}, {"id": "B13.8.56", "lines": ["If Tus should slay me, gopal still will sound,", "And koust will thunder over all the ground."]}, {"id": "B13.8.57", "lines": ["Piran still lives, and great Afrasiab too;", "Both will avenge me if I fall to you."]}, {"id": "B13.8.58", "lines": ["But if Tus falls beneath my hand today,", "None of his troops will find Iran’s way."]}, {"id": "B13.8.59", "lines": ["Go mourn your brother and his bitter pangs;", "Why rail at Tus while grief around you hangs?”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.60", "lines": ["Tus said: “What wrath is this? I am your foe.", "Come, wheel about; let battle’s anger grow."]}, {"id": "B13.8.61", "lines": ["Let us begin the fight without delay,", "And bend our brows in combat here today.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.62", "lines": ["Then Houman said: “All heads below a crown", "Or helm must one day fall and be cast down."]}, {"id": "B13.8.63", "lines": ["Since death must come, the battlefield is best;", "By one with honar, a chief may find his rest.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.64", "lines": ["Each grasped his massive gorz and charged to fight;", "Earth reeled beneath them, day dissolved in night."]}, {"id": "B13.8.65", "lines": ["A dust-cloud gathered over all the field,", "And battle’s face was hidden by its shield."]}, {"id": "B13.8.66", "lines": ["Dark night appeared to fall upon the day;", "The world’s bright sun was hidden far away."]}, {"id": "B13.8.67", "lines": ["Their mighty gorz all curved like Chakhian bows;", "Their rings of steel rang thunder from the blows."]}, {"id": "B13.8.68", "lines": ["The clash of steel rose upward to the cloud;", "Its battle-wind reached Shahd, immense and loud."]}, {"id": "B13.8.69", "lines": ["Beneath each iron helm seemed stone, not head;", "Their blows made Death’s own face turn black with dread."]}, {"id": "B13.8.70", "lines": ["They took their Indian scimitars in hand,", "And sparks streamed out from steel and stone and sand."]}, {"id": "B13.8.71", "lines": ["Beneath the strength of those two chiefs in fight,", "The keen blades bent, then shattered in the light."]}, {"id": "B13.8.72", "lines": ["Dust-stained and thirsty, each kept an iron hold,", "Gripped the other’s belt with fingers firm and bold."]}, {"id": "B13.8.73", "lines": ["They drove their weight through stirrups in the strain,", "Yet neither warrior fell upon the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.8.74", "lines": ["At last the belt of Houman snapped in two;", "He leapt upon a charger strong and new."]}, {"id": "B13.8.75", "lines": ["Tus took his bow and quiver from his waist,", "And on the string a poplar arrow placed."]}, {"id": "B13.8.76", "lines": ["He showered arrows at his noble foe,", "And wheeled as horsemen wheel against a blow."]}, {"id": "B13.8.77", "lines": ["Steel points and eagle-feathers filled the sky,", "Until the sun was hidden from the eye."]}, {"id": "B13.8.78", "lines": ["Though noon, the world seemed wrapped in deepest night;", "Its face was strewn with diamonds flashing bright."]}, {"id": "B13.8.79", "lines": ["One poplar arrow struck Houman’s own steed;", "It fell beneath him, pierced by that swift reed."]}, {"id": "B13.8.80", "lines": ["He raised his shield to guard his face and head,", "And stood afoot while battle round him spread."]}, {"id": "B13.8.81", "lines": ["The Turanian chiefs beheld him on the plain,", "And brought a noble charger by the rein."]}, {"id": "B13.8.82", "lines": ["Houman remounted on the noble steed,", "With Indian sword in hand for battle’s need."]}, {"id": "B13.8.83", "lines": ["He meant to turn and ride at Tus in wrath,", "As ebony night fell across his path."]}, {"id": "B13.8.84", "lines": ["The famous chiefs and warriors gathered round,", "Those battle-seeking men of high renown."]}, {"id": "B13.8.85", "lines": ["But darkness fell and brought the war to close;", "Their hands withdrew from battle and its blows."]}, {"id": "B13.8.86", "lines": ["He thought: “May evil eyes be driven away;", "May this fierce battle end in feast today.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.87", "lines": ["Houman turned rein while Tus still held his spear,", "Its point aimed straight at him as night drew near."]}, {"id": "B13.8.88", "lines": ["He reached Piran from that contested ground;", "A mighty Turanian shout rose all around."]}, {"id": "B13.8.89", "lines": ["The Turanians cried: “How did the battle go", "When you faced Tus, and met him blow for blow?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.90", "lines": ["Our hearts were filled with blood in fear for you;", "Yazdan alone knows what we suffered through.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.91", "lines": ["Houman replied: “O chiefs of proven might,", "O battle-tested lions of the fight,"]}, {"id": "B13.8.92", "lines": ["When this dark night gives way before the sun,", "The world-bright standard shall by us be won."]}, {"id": "B13.8.93", "lines": ["Then joy shall be the portion all may claim,", "And mine the honor of enduring fame.”"]}, {"id": "B13.8.94", "lines": ["Tus shouted through the darkness till cockcrow:", "“Is Houman fit to stand against my blow?"]}, {"id": "B13.8.95", "lines": ["A raging lion should confront me here;", "No lesser foe deserves to draw me near.”"]}, {"id": "B13.9.1", "lines": ["When heaven wore its crown of jet-black night,", "It scattered shamameh on lapis light."]}, {"id": "B13.9.2", "lines": ["The pickets hurried out on every side,", "And set the watch where night and danger hide."]}, {"id": "B13.9.3", "lines": ["But when the sun rose out of Cancer’s height,", "The world, like some fair Roman face, turned white."]}, {"id": "B13.9.4", "lines": ["From both the camps the tabira resounded;", "The karnay’s cry through all the world rebounded."]}, {"id": "B13.9.5", "lines": ["The air grew thick with flags of varied light,", "Red, yellow, black, and violet in sight."]}, {"id": "B13.9.6", "lines": ["Each warrior drew his sword, his gorz, his spear,", "And gathered up his reins as war drew near."]}, {"id": "B13.9.7", "lines": ["Then heaven, time, and earth, before their view,", "Seemed wrapped in iron as the battle grew."]}, {"id": "B13.9.8", "lines": ["The shining sun was lost in clouds of dust,", "Raised by the horsemen’s charge, as battle thrust."]}, {"id": "B13.9.9", "lines": ["With neighing steeds and koust that shook the sky,", "High heaven bent and kissed the earth nearby."]}, {"id": "B13.9.10", "lines": ["Houman rode forth before the ranks arrayed,", "A flashing dart in hand, his wrath displayed."]}, {"id": "B13.9.11", "lines": ["He cried: “When I give forth the signal, go;", "Drive on your chargers; let your fury show."]}, {"id": "B13.9.12", "lines": ["Draw each your falchion when I give command,", "And lift your shields of Chin with steady hand."]}, {"id": "B13.9.13", "lines": ["See only mane and rein before your eyes;", "Let neither bow nor pointed spear arise."]}, {"id": "B13.9.14", "lines": ["Use sword and club and heavy gorz in fight,", "As warriors’ custom teaches men of might."]}, {"id": "B13.9.15", "lines": ["Cast reins upon your horses’ necks and close;", "Give blows and take them as the battle goes.”"]}, {"id": "B13.9.16", "lines": ["This said, the gallant horseman, lion-strong,", "Went straight to wise Piran before the throng."]}, {"id": "B13.9.17", "lines": ["He cried: “O Pahlevan, unbind the gear;", "Let every warrior’s weapon now appear."]}, {"id": "B13.9.18", "lines": ["Keep no dinars locked within your store;", "Withhold no weapons from the coming war."]}, {"id": "B13.9.19", "lines": ["If we prevail today, your heart shall know", "The fruit that favoring stars on you bestow.”"]}, {"id": "B13.9.20", "lines": ["Tus on his side set out his ranks to vie", "In brightness with a rooster’s vivid eye."]}, {"id": "B13.9.21", "lines": ["The warriors blessed him, hailed his honored worth,", "And called him Pahlevan of all the earth."]}, {"id": "B13.9.22", "lines": ["They praised the valor Tus had shown that day,", "When dust rose high from Houman in the fray."]}, {"id": "B13.9.23", "lines": ["Then Tus addressed Gudarz, Keshvad’s great son:", "“Let all know well before this day is done:"]}, {"id": "B13.9.24", "lines": ["If we march forth and hostile horse prevail,", "Then all our strength and worldly courage fail."]}, {"id": "B13.9.25", "lines": ["Put all your trust in Yazdan for this day,", "And cast all pride and selfhood far away."]}, {"id": "B13.9.26", "lines": ["Perhaps the Maker lends our swords His aid;", "If not, our star is dark and hope will fade."]}, {"id": "B13.9.27", "lines": ["Let chiefs with golden boots remain today", "Beside the Kaviani standard in array."]}, {"id": "B13.9.28", "lines": ["Let no man leave the mountain’s guarded side;", "This is no hour to meet their rushing tide."]}, {"id": "B13.9.29", "lines": ["The enemy outnumbers us, in truth,", "Two hundred times our force of age and youth.”"]}, {"id": "B13.9.30", "lines": ["Gudarz replied: “If God averts our ill,", "Then great or small, each force obeys His will."]}, {"id": "B13.9.31", "lines": ["Do not dishearten Iran’s fighting band;", "The few and many rest in Yazdan’s hand."]}, {"id": "B13.9.32", "lines": ["If heaven grants us some ill-fortuned day,", "No cautious pause can turn its course away."]}, {"id": "B13.9.33", "lines": ["Array the ranks; torment no heart with fear;", "What must arrive will find us waiting here.”"]}, {"id": "B13.9.34", "lines": ["So Tus, the chieftain, drew the battle-line,", "With koust and elephants in stern design."]}, {"id": "B13.9.35", "lines": ["The footmen with the baggage climbed the height;", "Gudarz took post upon the army’s right."]}, {"id": "B13.9.36", "lines": ["Rohham and Gorgin held the army’s left;", "The ranks stood firm, by no disorder cleft."]}, {"id": "B13.9.37", "lines": ["The koust and karnay made the whole sky quake;", "High heaven seemed to shift and reel and shake."]}, {"id": "B13.9.38", "lines": ["The heart of turning heaven seemed torn in two;", "Dust filled the sun’s own mouth and hid its hue."]}, {"id": "B13.9.39", "lines": ["No eye could see the face of all the plain;", "The warriors vanished in the dust-cloud’s train."]}, {"id": "B13.9.40", "lines": ["Dark clouds rained sparks like diamonds through the air;", "Fire flashed from helm and sword in battle-glare."]}, {"id": "B13.9.41", "lines": ["The spearheads gleamed; drawn swords like lightning shone;", "Above rose standards and whirling gorz thrown."]}, {"id": "B13.9.42", "lines": ["The air was gorz and iron in the fight;", "The earth was horseshoes, jowshan packed in sight."]}, {"id": "B13.9.43", "lines": ["The plains and valleys ran with warrior blood;", "The swords were lamps across a midnight flood."]}, {"id": "B13.9.44", "lines": ["None knew the head from foot amid the sound,", "As koust and karnay shook the battleground."]}, {"id": "B13.9.45", "lines": ["Tus said to old Gudarz: “Now night draws near;", "The astrologer once made this warning clear:"]}, {"id": "B13.9.46", "lines": ["‘Until the third watch of this night is past,", "The warriors’ swords will keep on raining fast."]}, {"id": "B13.9.47", "lines": ["Like blackened clouds their swords will rain down blood,", "And drench the battlefield beneath the flood."]}, {"id": "B13.9.48", "lines": ["I fear when all this bloody work is done,", "Turan’s avenging ranks may prove they won.’”"]}, {"id": "B13.9.49", "lines": ["Shidush, Rohham, Giv, Gostaham drew near,", "With Kharrad, brave Farhad, and Barzin dear."]}, {"id": "B13.9.50", "lines": ["Between the armies they advanced as one,", "Their livers wounded, vengeance made them run."]}, {"id": "B13.9.51", "lines": ["Like troops of Divs upon a murky night,", "They came as battle-din assailed the height."]}, {"id": "B13.9.52", "lines": ["Houman led forth his mountain-heavy force,", "Troop after troop advanced along its course."]}, {"id": "B13.9.53", "lines": ["With gorz and mallet, sword and spear displayed,", "No eye could tell where rein or stirrup swayed."]}, {"id": "B13.9.54", "lines": ["Then man with man was chosen for the field,", "Each named to test what sword and gorz might yield."]}, {"id": "B13.9.55", "lines": ["Guraza, chief of Givgan’s valiant band,", "Met Nahl, two lion-hearts with sword in hand."]}, {"id": "B13.9.56", "lines": ["Rohham, Gudarz’s son, strode forth to fight", "With Farshidvard; Shidush faced Lahhak’s might."]}, {"id": "B13.9.57", "lines": ["Then Bijan, son of Giv, met Kulbad’s ire;", "They rushed through darkened air like wind and fire."]}, {"id": "B13.9.58", "lines": ["Renowned Giv faced Shatrakh in the fray;", "Two noble chiefs prepared to test the day."]}, {"id": "B13.9.59", "lines": ["Gudarz met Piran; Houman faced Tus too;", "No pause or doubt restrained what they would do."]}, {"id": "B13.9.60", "lines": ["Tus said: “Today must not conclude the same", "As yesterday’s hard clash of steel and flame."]}, {"id": "B13.9.61", "lines": ["We must sweep every foeman from the land,", "So none survives to raise avenging hand.”"]}, {"id": "B13.9.62", "lines": ["Then Tus advanced with footmen to the plain,", "With elephants and koust behind his train."]}, {"id": "B13.9.63", "lines": ["Before the horse stood shielded ranks in line,", "With zhupin-men and spears in strict design."]}, {"id": "B13.9.64", "lines": ["“Hold fast your posts; do not give up your ground;", "Bring shield and spear before you all around."]}, {"id": "B13.9.65", "lines": ["Now let us see,” he said, “what strength they wield,", "And how all their massive gorz rule the field.”"]}, {"id": "B13.10.1", "lines": ["Among Turan stood Bazoor, known by name,", "A master versed in sorcery’s dark game."]}, {"id": "B13.10.2", "lines": ["He knew the tongues of Chin and Pahlavi well,", "And crooked arts and every magic spell."]}, {"id": "B13.10.3", "lines": ["Piran said to that warlock: “Climb the height,", "And send down snow and cold against the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.10.4", "lines": ["Let wind and bitter storm assail the foe,", "And bind the Iranian warriors’ hands with snow.”"]}, {"id": "B13.10.5", "lines": ["The sorcerer sped upward to the crest;", "At once came driving snow at his behest."]}, {"id": "B13.10.6", "lines": ["The spearmen of Iran grew numb with cold,", "Their fingers failed the shafts they tried to hold."]}, {"id": "B13.10.7", "lines": ["Amid the tumult and zamehrir’s blast,", "The warriors roared as arrows showered fast."]}, {"id": "B13.10.8", "lines": ["Piran cried out: “Now charge them through the snow;", "Their frozen hands cannot withstand the blow."]}, {"id": "B13.10.9", "lines": ["Their spears lie useless in their stiffened hands;", "No warrior stands firm against our bands.”"]}, {"id": "B13.10.10", "lines": ["Houman charged forward like a Div with battle-cry,", "As snow and iron darkened earth and sky."]}, {"id": "B13.10.11", "lines": ["They slaughtered till between the hostile lines", "A sea of blood spread under battle-signs."]}, {"id": "B13.10.12", "lines": ["The vales and slopes were stained with red and white;", "Iran’s brave horsemen perished in the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.10.13", "lines": ["The frozen corpses choked the snow-clad ground;", "The fallen left no passage all around."]}, {"id": "B13.10.14", "lines": ["No room remained to wheel across that mound;", "The cold left every warrior’s hands ice-bound."]}, {"id": "B13.10.15", "lines": ["Then Tus and all the chiefs cried in despair,", "And raised their grieving voices through the air:"]}, {"id": "B13.10.16", "lines": ["“O Higher than all knowledge, sense, and thought,", "Whose presence cannot be confined or caught,"]}, {"id": "B13.10.17", "lines": ["We are Your guilty servants in distress;", "We call to You from fear and helplessness."]}, {"id": "B13.10.18", "lines": ["You stand above all sorcery and spell,", "Judge over judges, ruling all things well."]}, {"id": "B13.10.19", "lines": ["You are the helper of the helpless still,", "More powerful than fire and zamehrir’s chill."]}, {"id": "B13.10.20", "lines": ["Deliver us from this excessive cold;", "You are our only hope, our only hold.”"]}, {"id": "B13.10.21", "lines": ["A sage approached Rohham and showed the height", "Where magic’s source lay hidden from the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.10.22", "lines": ["He showed where bold Bazoor had made his stand,", "With spell and talisman at his command."]}, {"id": "B13.10.23", "lines": ["Rohham wheeled round and left the battleground,", "Then climbed through drifts that covered all around."]}, {"id": "B13.10.24", "lines": ["He girded up his jowshan to his waist,", "On foot he climbed; up to the peak he raced."]}, {"id": "B13.10.25", "lines": ["The warlock saw him; black with rage he grew,", "And seized a gorz of Chin, and at him flew."]}, {"id": "B13.10.26", "lines": ["Rohham approached and drew his trenchant steel,", "And closed upon the warlock with fearless zeal."]}, {"id": "B13.10.27", "lines": ["He struck and severed Bazoor’s magic hand;", "At once the spell began to leave the land."]}, {"id": "B13.10.28", "lines": ["A wind like Resurrection swept the height,", "And drove the black cloud out before the light."]}, {"id": "B13.10.29", "lines": ["Rohham came down, and bore the hand he won,", "Then mounted when the steep descent was done."]}, {"id": "B13.10.30", "lines": ["The azure sky resumed its former hue;", "The shining sun returned to open view."]}, {"id": "B13.10.31", "lines": ["Then Rohham told his father what was wrought,", "And what Bazoor’s dark sorcery had brought."]}, {"id": "B13.10.32", "lines": ["The Shah’s troops saw the field, a sea of blood,", "Across the plain its crimson currents flood."]}, {"id": "B13.10.33", "lines": ["Headless Iranian bodies filled the ground,", "And bodiless heads lay scattered all around."]}, {"id": "B13.10.34", "lines": ["Then old Gudarz said: “Tus, no elephants remain;", "No koust is heard across our shattered train."]}, {"id": "B13.10.35", "lines": ["Let all draw swords and charge across the plain;", "We slay, or else lie numbered with the slain."]}, {"id": "B13.10.36", "lines": ["Our destined term draws near its final span;", "No bow or shaft or kamand helps a man.”"]}, {"id": "B13.10.37", "lines": ["Tus said: “Experienced veteran, hear me well;", "The sky is clear; the cold wind’s power fell."]}, {"id": "B13.10.38", "lines": ["Why place our heads beneath the foeman’s blade,", "When our great Helper grants us farr and aid?"]}, {"id": "B13.10.39", "lines": ["Do not yourself lead first into the fight;", "These warriors can fulfill our purpose right."]}, {"id": "B13.10.40", "lines": ["Do not go out to court your fate through pride,", "Nor charge too fiercely where their troops abide."]}, {"id": "B13.10.41", "lines": ["Hold the Kaviani standard at the heart,", "With blue-steel sword in hand; do not depart."]}, {"id": "B13.10.42", "lines": ["Let Giv and valiant Bijan hold the right;", "Let Gostaham command the left in fight."]}, {"id": "B13.10.43", "lines": ["Rohham and Shidush guard the foremost line;", "Guraza foams for vengeance by design."]}, {"id": "B13.10.44", "lines": ["If I am slain, lead Iran’s ranks away;", "Return them to Khosrow without delay."]}, {"id": "B13.10.45", "lines": ["For death is better than a life of blame,", "And nobler than the foeman’s jeering shame.”"]}, {"id": "B13.10.46", "lines": ["Such is the world, all anguish, grief, and woe;", "Seek no excess while you remain below."]}, {"id": "B13.10.47", "lines": ["For added greed will bite you in the end,", "And never make your mortal span extend."]}, {"id": "B13.10.48", "lines": ["Again karnay and zang resounded round,", "With Indian daray in brazen sound."]}, {"id": "B13.10.49", "lines": ["With din of charging horsemen in the field,", "With flashing sword and battle-ax revealed,"]}, {"id": "B13.10.50", "lines": ["With pikan, gopal, zhupin, arrows cast,", "The earth grew black as pitch beneath the blast."]}, {"id": "B13.10.51", "lines": ["The plain was filled with severed heads and arms;", "The crash of gopal thundered fierce alarms."]}, {"id": "B13.10.52", "lines": ["The face of fortune vanished from their sight;", "The fierce Turanian onset broke their might."]}, {"id": "B13.10.53", "lines": ["Their harsh star darkened; Iran’s ranks gave way,", "And turned their backs before the foe that day."]}, {"id": "B13.10.54", "lines": ["Then Tus, Gudarz, brave Giv and Bijan came,", "With Shidush, Rohham, chiefs of martial fame."]}, {"id": "B13.10.55", "lines": ["They took their lives in hand to win acclaim", "Before the blades of war and iron flame."]}, {"id": "B13.10.56", "lines": ["The namdars and kanarangs at the fore", "Poured out their blood amid the battle’s roar."]}, {"id": "B13.10.57", "lines": ["But those behind them fled in fear and shame;", "A Mobad reached Tus and called his name:"]}, {"id": "B13.10.58", "lines": ["“No warrior now remains behind your line;", "The foe may close around you by design."]}, {"id": "B13.10.59", "lines": ["They may destroy both captain and his band,", "If they encircle you on every hand.”"]}, {"id": "B13.10.60", "lines": ["Tus said to Giv: “Our army’s sense has fled;", "Its wit and wisdom from its ranks are dead."]}, {"id": "B13.10.61", "lines": ["They have abandoned us and taken flight;", "Go after them and turn them back to fight."]}, {"id": "B13.10.62", "lines": ["Guard us from foemen’s jeers and royal shame;", "Let not this rout dishonor Khosrow’s name.”"]}, {"id": "B13.10.63", "lines": ["Giv went, and turned the fleeing troops to war;", "The plain and open country filled with gore."]}, {"id": "B13.10.64", "lines": ["Tus said: “This is a strife where chiefs contend;", "Now let the fighting of this day have end."]}, {"id": "B13.10.65", "lines": ["The cheek of day grows dark; the land with blood", "Has turned from end to end to crimson flood."]}, {"id": "B13.10.66", "lines": ["Choose now a resting place, if darkening night", "Allows us rest after this day of fight."]}, {"id": "B13.10.67", "lines": ["Perhaps our slain may find a bed of sand,", "With earth as coverlet across the land.”"]}, {"id": "B13.11.1", "lines": ["The Iranians drew back with heads bowed low,", "Their hearts cut deep by comrades laid below."]}, {"id": "B13.11.2", "lines": ["When moon rose over mountains, bright and lone,", "Like some triumphant king on turquoise throne,"]}, {"id": "B13.11.3", "lines": ["Piran the chieftain called his warriors near,", "And said: “Few foes remain for us to fear."]}, {"id": "B13.11.4", "lines": ["When topaz seas of morning flood the sky,", "And cast their waves on lapis realms on high,"]}, {"id": "B13.11.5", "lines": ["I will destroy the remnant of their line,", "And make the Shah’s heart writhe with grief like mine.”"]}, {"id": "B13.11.6", "lines": ["The troops went off rejoicing from the fight,", "And kept their camp awake through all the night."]}, {"id": "B13.11.7", "lines": ["Before their tents, the chang and rabab rang,", "And through the sleepless night their music sang."]}, {"id": "B13.11.8", "lines": ["Iran’s men mourned; the fathers wept for sons,", "While slain and wounded lay where blood still runs."]}, {"id": "B13.11.9", "lines": ["The plain was hidden by the dead and maimed,", "Their noble blood ran on, and none was claimed."]}, {"id": "B13.11.10", "lines": ["Severed hands and feet lay all around,", "No one knew where to set a foot on ground."]}, {"id": "B13.11.11", "lines": ["All night they raised their wounded, sunk in grief;", "The wounded foe they left without relief."]}, {"id": "B13.11.12", "lines": ["With fire they seared the wounds their comrades bore,", "Then bound and stitched the flesh that gaped and tore."]}, {"id": "B13.11.13", "lines": ["Of Gudarz’s line, full many wounded lay,", "Some fell; some, bound as captives, went away."]}, {"id": "B13.11.14", "lines": ["At this dark news he raised a bitter cry,", "The earth boiled where the horses thundered by."]}, {"id": "B13.11.15", "lines": ["The chiefs all tore their clothes in bitter pain;", "He poured dark dust upon his head like rain."]}, {"id": "B13.11.16", "lines": ["He cried: “No white-haired man has ever known", "Such grief as mine, such ruin of his own."]}, {"id": "B13.11.17", "lines": ["Why must I still survive with silver hair,", "When many sons lie slaughtered in despair?"]}, {"id": "B13.11.18", "lines": ["Since birth my khaftan has been girded tight,", "I never loosed its binding day or night."]}, {"id": "B13.11.19", "lines": ["When I went forth with heroes into war,", "My sons and grandsons strengthened me before."]}, {"id": "B13.11.20", "lines": ["My line was shattered in that Turanian fray,", "My sons and grandsons swept from me away."]}, {"id": "B13.11.21", "lines": ["And Bahram, my own son, was lost to me,", "That famed, proud lion I no more shall see.”"]}, {"id": "B13.11.22", "lines": ["Tus wailed; blood filled his lashes, grief laid bare,", "His face turned sandarac-pale in his despair."]}, {"id": "B13.11.23", "lines": ["He cried: “Had Nohzar never sown my root,", "Nor planted in the meadow stock and shoot,"]}, {"id": "B13.11.24", "lines": ["Then toil and anguish would not wound me so,", "Nor grief for slain men in the battle’s throe."]}, {"id": "B13.11.25", "lines": ["Since first I took up arms at war’s command,", "My heart was pierced, though still alive I stand."]}, {"id": "B13.11.26", "lines": ["Now dig the graves and bury all our dead,", "And join to every trunk its severed head."]}, {"id": "B13.11.27", "lines": ["Move army, tents, and baggage out tonight;", "Seek Hamavan, its strong and guarded height."]}, {"id": "B13.11.28", "lines": ["Dispatch a hiyun now without delay;", "The Shah, enraged, will send fresh troops our way."]}, {"id": "B13.11.29", "lines": ["I sent a rider earlier from here,", "And warned Kay Khosrow what we had to fear."]}, {"id": "B13.11.30", "lines": ["He will send Zal’s great son to lead the van,", "And bring fresh troops as swiftly as he can.”"]}, {"id": "B13.11.31", "lines": ["He mounted all the army, baggage stowed,", "And mourned the slain as toward the mount they rode."]}, {"id": "B13.12.1", "lines": ["When sunlight raised its crown to greet the day,", "On ivory throne the camphor’s whiteness lay."]}, {"id": "B13.12.2", "lines": ["Ten farsangs on, while foes lay sunk in sleep,", "Iran’s men marched, their steady course to keep."]}, {"id": "B13.12.3", "lines": ["Without a halt they pressed the road ahead,", "Their hearts in grief; their lips had known no bread."]}, {"id": "B13.12.4", "lines": ["Each eye was bloodshot, every heart was scarred,", "Each soul like raven feathers, black and marred."]}, {"id": "B13.12.5", "lines": ["They reached Mount Hamavan and set their train", "Upon its outer slopes above the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.12.6", "lines": ["Then Tus addressed brave Giv, renowned and wise:", "“Illustrious chief, whose counsel none denies,"]}, {"id": "B13.12.7", "lines": ["For three full days we marched and none were fed,", "Without repose, while grief around us spread."]}, {"id": "B13.12.8", "lines": ["Come, eat a little; lay your armor by,", "Then sleep and rest while night still holds the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.12.9", "lines": ["Piran will surely follow without stay,", "Intent on battle as he comes this way."]}, {"id": "B13.12.10", "lines": ["Go to the mountain; take your post; prepare,", "And leave our freshest troops in Bijan’s care.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.11", "lines": ["Then Giv led up the wounded from the strife,", "All weary of the world and sick of life."]}, {"id": "B13.12.12", "lines": ["He chose the freshest warriors from the band,", "And formed a rested force at his command."]}, {"id": "B13.12.13", "lines": ["“This mountain-top,” he said, “shall be our ground;", "Here we must set our weary ranks around.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.14", "lines": ["The outpost guards descended from the height,", "To bar the road and block the foe outright."]}, {"id": "B13.12.15", "lines": ["The guards cried out; the zang rang through the rocks,", "And stone and mountain boiled beneath the shocks."]}, {"id": "B13.12.16", "lines": ["When sun rose bright above the mountain crest,", "Turanian hearts for battle could not rest."]}, {"id": "B13.12.17", "lines": ["A roar from Piran’s quarters shook the ground;", "He led his force like fire with thunderous sound."]}, {"id": "B13.12.18", "lines": ["He said to Houman: “Do not now delay;", "Their riders, slain or wounded, cannot stay.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.19", "lines": ["He beat the koust; the shouting rose in might,", "And led his troops across the plain to fight."]}, {"id": "B13.12.20", "lines": ["But when they reached the field in full array,", "They found the camp deserted where it lay."]}, {"id": "B13.12.21", "lines": ["A spy returned to Piran from the field,", "“No Iranian remains with sword or shield.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.22", "lines": ["A shout of triumph rose from all the crowd;", "The troops awaited orders, fierce and loud."]}, {"id": "B13.12.23", "lines": ["Piran addressed Mobadan at his side:", "“O honored wise men, what should we decide?"]}, {"id": "B13.12.24", "lines": ["What shall we do, now that our foes have fled?”", "Then all the horsemen, full of anger, said:"]}, {"id": "B13.12.25", "lines": ["“The Iranians fled defeated from the field;", "Their blood and dust are all the signs they yield."]}, {"id": "B13.12.26", "lines": ["This is no time to fear or pause for breath;", "We should pursue and drive them toward their death."]}, {"id": "B13.12.27", "lines": ["Why should your wisdom counsel us to stay?", "Who flees the wind will plunge into the spray.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.28", "lines": ["Piran replied: “In war, the foot of haste", "Runs blind, while measured counsel holds its place."]}, {"id": "B13.12.29", "lines": ["A sea of warriors gathers for the fray,", "Before Afrasiab in vast array."]}, {"id": "B13.12.30", "lines": ["Let us delay until that power appears,", "With fighting men, their shields and battle-spears."]}, {"id": "B13.12.31", "lines": ["Then none in Iran shall live to tell;", "Such measured counsel serves the wise men well.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.32", "lines": ["Then Houman said: “Enough, O chief of might;", "Let neither grief nor fear restrain the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.12.33", "lines": ["These warriors, both disciplined and bold,", "With sword and kamand, trained in battles old,"]}, {"id": "B13.12.34", "lines": ["Have left their ground, their tents, their camp behind,", "And fled as though bereft of heart and mind."]}, {"id": "B13.12.35", "lines": ["Be sure of this: they were compelled to flee;", "Once and for all they turned their backs to me."]}, {"id": "B13.12.36", "lines": ["We must not let them reach Khosrow’s bright court,", "And gather fresh battalions for support."]}, {"id": "B13.12.37", "lines": ["Then Rostam marches forth from Zabul’s land,", "And our delay will cost us by his hand."]}, {"id": "B13.12.38", "lines": ["Now is the time for me to strike their line,", "And work my ruse before their hopes align."]}, {"id": "B13.12.39", "lines": ["We have clear hope of laying hands today", "On Tus and old Gudarz before they stray,"]}, {"id": "B13.12.40", "lines": ["The Kaviani standard; what a prize!", "With elephants and koust before our eyes!”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.41", "lines": ["Piran replied: “Go wakeful, bright in soul;", "Let star and counsel guide you to your goal."]}, {"id": "B13.12.42", "lines": ["Do this, for fortune rises with your name;", "Heaven’s wheel lies low beneath your height and fame.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.43", "lines": ["Piran set forth, his army at his back,", "And ordered Lahhak: “Take the swiftest track."]}, {"id": "B13.12.44", "lines": ["Do not delay; press hard with rein and heel,", "With two hundred warriors of tempered steel."]}, {"id": "B13.12.45", "lines": ["Keep girded; spur your horses at full pace,", "Until you learn their station and their base.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.46", "lines": ["Lahhak rode swiftly through the dark of night,", "Nor thought of food or sleep throughout his flight."]}, {"id": "B13.12.47", "lines": ["At midnight, watchers glimpsed him riding fast,", "Across the dusky plain his shadow passed."]}, {"id": "B13.12.48", "lines": ["A shout rose up; the zang rang from the height;", "He knew no time remained to stay and fight."]}, {"id": "B13.12.49", "lines": ["He turned at once and rode to wise Piran,", "And brought him word of Tus and Hamavan:"]}, {"id": "B13.12.50", "lines": ["“They hold Mount Hamavan, its summit manned;", "They block the road, and armed for battle stand.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.51", "lines": ["Piran said: “Press rein and stirrup; ride;", "Take famed mounted champions at your side."]}, {"id": "B13.12.52", "lines": ["The Iranians have climbed the mountain-height,", "Their troops and standard gathered for the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.12.53", "lines": ["This war will bring hard toil and grief to all;", "Use all your wit before their mountain wall."]}, {"id": "B13.12.54", "lines": ["If Kaveh’s Kaviani standard falls,", "Then daylight darkens round their mountain walls."]}, {"id": "B13.12.55", "lines": ["If fortune grants you access in the fight,", "Cut flag and staff apart with sword outright."]}, {"id": "B13.12.56", "lines": ["I follow swiftly on your battle track;", "I shall not linger or remain held back.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.57", "lines": ["Houman chose thirty thousand men to ride,", "With shields and scimitars at either side."]}, {"id": "B13.12.58", "lines": ["When shining sun displayed its radiant face,", "And filled the earth with love in every place,"]}, {"id": "B13.12.59", "lines": ["The dust of Houman’s army veiled the day;", "The lookout cried: “Turan now comes this way!"]}, {"id": "B13.12.60", "lines": ["Up to the darkened clouds their dust was blown;", "A mighty army came, its strength now shown!”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.61", "lines": ["Tus donned his jowshan, ready for the fight;", "The horn and koust rang out with all their might."]}, {"id": "B13.12.62", "lines": ["Iranian horsemen gathered rank on rank,", "Around the mountain’s foot and stony flank."]}, {"id": "B13.12.63", "lines": ["Their swords and gorz and spears in every hand,", "Like lions round the bright Kaviani standard stand."]}, {"id": "B13.12.64", "lines": ["Then Houman called to Tus and Gudarz: “You", "With koust and elephants came marching through."]}, {"id": "B13.12.65", "lines": ["You came to raid Turan and win renown,", "But fled like hunted game when war bore down."]}, {"id": "B13.12.66", "lines": ["Routed, exhausted, broken in the fight,", "Have you no sense of shame before this sight?"]}, {"id": "B13.12.67", "lines": ["Do food and rest and sleep await in stone?", "Can rock and mountain make such comforts known?"]}, {"id": "B13.12.68", "lines": ["Tomorrow when the sun crowns every height,", "I will make Hamavan a sea outright."]}, {"id": "B13.12.69", "lines": ["I shall drag you from this mountain land,", "And bind your hands in coils of my kamand."]}, {"id": "B13.12.70", "lines": ["I shall send you bound to Afrasiab’s side,", "Without food, rest, or sleep, your hands still tied."]}, {"id": "B13.12.71", "lines": ["Then you will know this refuge served in vain,", "A helpless course that brings you only pain.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.72", "lines": ["A hiyun sped to Piran at full speed:", "“Our plan was otherwise; mark now our need."]}, {"id": "B13.12.73", "lines": ["The mountain swarms with troops; the koust resound,", "Behind Tus and Gudarz the flag is found."]}, {"id": "B13.12.74", "lines": ["When pure day breaks and world-light crowns the sky,", "Be there prepared, your army standing by."]}, {"id": "B13.12.75", "lines": ["Then marshal all your forces for the fray,", "And blacken all the plain at break of day.”"]}, {"id": "B13.12.76", "lines": ["The hiyun reached Piran with Houman’s call,", "And Piran’s blood boiled hot on hearing all."]}, {"id": "B13.12.77", "lines": ["When darkness fell and sleep possessed the plain,", "He drove his army like a surging main."]}, {"id": "B13.13.1", "lines": ["When sun, grown weary of its veil of night,", "Broke through and filled the world again with light,"]}, {"id": "B13.13.2", "lines": ["Piran reached Hamavan’s guarded span,", "While dust concealed the world from horse and man."]}, {"id": "B13.13.3", "lines": ["He said to Houman: “Keep your forces here;", "I first will speak with Tus and make things clear."]}, {"id": "B13.13.4", "lines": ["I will ask why the Kaviani standard flies,", "And who revealed this mountain to their eyes."]}, {"id": "B13.13.5", "lines": ["What hope sustains you on this mountain height?”", "His head held vengeance, heart held sin and spite."]}, {"id": "B13.13.6", "lines": ["Piran cried: “O Tus, renowned in battle’s course,", "With elephants, gopal, and koust in force,"]}, {"id": "B13.13.7", "lines": ["Five months have passed since war consumed the plain,", "Gudarz’s foremost kin lie headless, slain."]}, {"id": "B13.13.8", "lines": ["You fled, your panting soldiers in your train,", "And climbed the heights, your heart still bent on bane."]}, {"id": "B13.13.9", "lines": ["Like mountain sheep, you sought the rocky lair,", "Yet surely you will fall within my snare.”"]}, {"id": "B13.13.10", "lines": ["Noble Tus then replied: “I scorn your lies;", "Your falsehoods cannot stand before my eyes."]}, {"id": "B13.13.11", "lines": ["For Siavash you stirred the fires of hate,", "And spread new vengeance through the proud and great."]}, {"id": "B13.13.12", "lines": ["Have you no shame for words of heated air?", "They will not lure me to your waiting snare."]}, {"id": "B13.13.13", "lines": ["May no such Pahlevan as you arise", "Among the mighty, honored by the wise."]}, {"id": "B13.13.14", "lines": ["Your oath destroyed Siavash in Turan’s land,", "His blood convulsed the earth on every hand."]}, {"id": "B13.13.15", "lines": ["You held him there in Turan by deceit;", "Now war and vengeance answer that dark feat."]}, {"id": "B13.13.16", "lines": ["Alas for that great prince, that noble face,", "Whose presence once brought joy to every place."]}, {"id": "B13.13.17", "lines": ["By these devices, by such fraud and spite,", "You gain no luster in a true man’s sight."]}, {"id": "B13.13.18", "lines": ["We could not forage on the battlefield;", "So toward Mount Hamavan my army wheeled."]}, {"id": "B13.13.19", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow now has heard our bitter plight,", "With Zal and Rostam gathering for the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.13.20", "lines": ["When once the Shah comes marching on his way,", "No land or tilled field in Turan will stay."]}, {"id": "B13.13.21", "lines": ["Since you are here, let open battle start;", "This is no time for ambush or false art.”"]}, {"id": "B13.13.22", "lines": ["Piran sent troops to seize each mountain road;", "His mountain-like battalions round it flowed."]}, {"id": "B13.13.23", "lines": ["When every path to food and forage was barred,", "Piran devised how best to press them hard."]}, {"id": "B13.13.24", "lines": ["Houman said: “We must seize the mountain base;", "Then Iran’s vengeance ends within this place.”"]}, {"id": "B13.13.25", "lines": ["Piran replied, “The wind blows in our face;", "No man can fight the wind in any case."]}, {"id": "B13.13.26", "lines": ["They have no room to forage or to graze,", "And none can hold bare rock through hungry days."]}, {"id": "B13.13.27", "lines": ["Their troops will cease to heed their leader’s call;", "With battle’s fire gone, their courage will fall."]}, {"id": "B13.13.28", "lines": ["They will seek zanhar and turn from the fray;", "This is for mercy, not battle array.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.1", "lines": ["Gudarz and Tus suspected what was planned,", "And fear fell heavy on the chieftains’ band."]}, {"id": "B13.14.2", "lines": ["Old Gudarz said to Tus: “We now must fight;", "No other course remains upon this height."]}, {"id": "B13.14.3", "lines": ["Three days of food remain, no open way;", "No road lies open for us night or day."]}, {"id": "B13.14.4", "lines": ["We have no tents, no huts, no baggage-train;", "A hungry army cannot long remain."]}, {"id": "B13.14.5", "lines": ["So when the sun turns pale and leaves our sight,", "A lapis curtain spreads across the night."]}, {"id": "B13.14.6", "lines": ["Let chosen horsemen then descend the height,", "And ride together toward the field of fight."]}, {"id": "B13.14.7", "lines": ["We will make a night attack and test our fate,", "And see if Fortune comes to aid our state."]}, {"id": "B13.14.8", "lines": ["We perish one by one, or else obtain", "The hero’s crown through battle, blood, and pain."]}, {"id": "B13.14.9", "lines": ["Such is the end that every battle brings:", "One gains the dust, one crown and rank of kings.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.10", "lines": ["Tus listened to Gudarz; his heart was sore", "With pain from ancient vengeance borne before."]}, {"id": "B13.14.11", "lines": ["He waited till the night had crossed the sky;", "The sun went down, and darkness gathered high."]}, {"id": "B13.14.12", "lines": ["When one watch passed and every voice was still,", "Tus armed himself to test his strength and will."]}, {"id": "B13.14.13", "lines": ["He called the men of action to his side,", "And set the wings where chosen chiefs would ride."]}, {"id": "B13.14.14", "lines": ["One wing to brave Bijan he gave that night,", "One to Shidush and Kharrad for the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.14.15", "lines": ["The Kaviani standard Gostaham bore,", "And Tus gave counsel for the coming war."]}, {"id": "B13.14.16", "lines": ["Then Tus with Giv and Rohham, chiefs of fame,", "Raised their heavy gorz as the battle came."]}, {"id": "B13.14.17", "lines": ["They made for bold Piran without delay,", "Like fire they struck the Turanian array."]}, {"id": "B13.14.18", "lines": ["The field became a sea of blood and cries;", "A mighty shout rose upward to the skies."]}, {"id": "B13.14.19", "lines": ["Piran’s great standard split beneath the blow;", "His troops were panic-stricken by the foe."]}, {"id": "B13.14.20", "lines": ["When Houman heard that cry, he mounted fast;", "His coal-black Arab bore him toward the blast."]}, {"id": "B13.14.21", "lines": ["He came and saw the slaughtered where they lay,", "And fighting men turned from the field away."]}, {"id": "B13.14.22", "lines": ["He wept blood-tears upon his breast and cried:", "“Was there no watchman posted on this side?"]}, {"id": "B13.14.23", "lines": ["Had none among you heart enough to fight?", "We outnumber them three hundredfold tonight."]}, {"id": "B13.14.24", "lines": ["Such sleep is evil when the battle calls;", "Draw swords and gopals, raise Chinese shield-walls."]}, {"id": "B13.14.25", "lines": ["The moon above the mountain lifts its light,", "And draws a silver blade across the night."]}, {"id": "B13.14.26", "lines": ["Surround the foe and bar each outward way;", "Let neither fighting man nor laggard stray.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.27", "lines": ["The karnay rang; the ranks pressed on ahead,", "And ringed the horsemen, filling them with dread."]}, {"id": "B13.14.28", "lines": ["Iran’s riders, raging lions, stood at bay,", "While foes closed round, and none could break away."]}, {"id": "B13.14.29", "lines": ["Sparks flashed from helm and sword through murky air;", "It seemed the clouds rained heavy gorz everywhere."]}, {"id": "B13.14.30", "lines": ["Night, dust, and scimitars concealed the light,", "No star was seen; the moon was veiled from sight."]}, {"id": "B13.14.31", "lines": ["It seemed a wall of jowshan hemmed them round,", "A sea of pitch had swallowed sky and ground."]}, {"id": "B13.14.32", "lines": ["Then Houman cried: “Bring chiefs as captives; strive", "To let no arrow wound them; take them alive.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.33", "lines": ["They shouted back: “Their hands we bind, or all", "Beneath our gopal and our zhupin fall."]}, {"id": "B13.14.34", "lines": ["Crown every chief of Iran with blood-red gore;", "Let blood become the crown that each one wore.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.35", "lines": ["Then Tus said to Rohham and Giv: “Our lives", "Are lost unless Yazdan our strength revives,"]}, {"id": "B13.14.36", "lines": ["And frees both soul and body from this net,", "And guards us from the ruin round us set."]}, {"id": "B13.14.37", "lines": ["We hang like prey within an eagle’s clutch,", "Or sink beneath the sea beyond all touch.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.38", "lines": ["Like savage lions springing to the fray,", "They charged together, sweeping foes away."]}, {"id": "B13.14.39", "lines": ["The pipe, the koust, Indian daray, and zang", "Across the field in brazen clamor rang."]}, {"id": "B13.14.40", "lines": ["No man could see his horse’s mane or rein,", "Spearpoints drove near his eyes through dust and pain."]}, {"id": "B13.14.41", "lines": ["Houman exclaimed: “You have no room for flight", "Or fight; ill fortune found you here tonight."]}, {"id": "B13.14.42", "lines": ["Ill fate has driven you from guarded height,", "So evil finds the guilty in this fight.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.43", "lines": ["Amid such strife those three heroic men", "Held fast though little strength remained to them."]}, {"id": "B13.14.44", "lines": ["They thought of Rostam’s prowess everywhere,", "And longed for aid within that deadly snare."]}, {"id": "B13.14.45", "lines": ["They thought of Shidush, Bijan in the fray,", "And Gostaham; would no one come their way?"]}, {"id": "B13.14.46", "lines": ["They cried: “Will no Iranian aid our cause?", "We rushed headlong into the nahang’s jaws."]}, {"id": "B13.14.47", "lines": ["Woe to the Shah’s great throne and portal high;", "For we shall soon be seized beneath this sky."]}, {"id": "B13.14.48", "lines": ["Rostam and Zal in Zabulistan stay;", "Iran itself will fall to ruin today.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.49", "lines": ["“Iran will perish!” Then rose the koust’s sound,", "With gopal blows from Iran’s waiting ground."]}, {"id": "B13.14.50", "lines": ["But Giv and Tus returned not from the plain;", "Shidush and Gostaham cried out in pain."]}, {"id": "B13.14.51", "lines": ["The lion Gostaham said: “Tus too long", "Has fought where gorz and sword strike fierce and strong.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.52", "lines": ["Guraza said to brave Bijan: “Our chief", "Has labored long in battle without relief.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.53", "lines": ["Then from the plain the koust began to sound;", "Air darkened, earth grew ebony around."]}, {"id": "B13.14.54", "lines": ["The warriors hastened toward Tus’s cry;", "Blood stained the field beneath the darkening sky."]}, {"id": "B13.14.55", "lines": ["They came behind the foe with their gorz raised,", "And struck with heavy blows as fury blazed."]}, {"id": "B13.14.56", "lines": ["Tus knew that help had reached the deadly field,", "And roared like koust above the sword and shield."]}, {"id": "B13.14.57", "lines": ["His rein grew light; the stirrup heavy lay,", "His fallen fortune rose from low that day."]}, {"id": "B13.14.58", "lines": ["Rohham and Giv, who heard Bijan’s brave voice,", "Became like lions and made hearts rejoice."]}, {"id": "B13.14.59", "lines": ["Thus fought they on until the night had fled,", "When light above the mountains rose and spread."]}, {"id": "B13.14.60", "lines": ["Then they recalled their men and drew them back,", "Toward rocky heights along the mountain-track."]}, {"id": "B13.14.61", "lines": ["The chieftain Tus then spoke before the band:", "“From sunset till the koust you held your stand."]}, {"id": "B13.14.62", "lines": ["May evil eyes stay far from every one;", "May battle turn to feast when strife is done."]}, {"id": "B13.14.63", "lines": ["I never knew of warriors who could show", "Such gallantry against so vast a foe."]}, {"id": "B13.14.64", "lines": ["My first prayer is that God may guard and keep", "Us from the evil eye, awake or asleep."]}, {"id": "B13.14.65", "lines": ["He is my refuge always, and I trust", "That He will lift you from this blood and dust."]}, {"id": "B13.14.66", "lines": ["I trust that aid, like smoke, will soon draw near,", "Before despair can master us through fear."]}, {"id": "B13.14.67", "lines": ["My hiyun stands before the Shah to plead;", "He knows at last our bitter state and need."]}, {"id": "B13.14.68", "lines": ["My letter’s fire will burn his heart clean through;", "And Rostam, elephant in might, comes too."]}, {"id": "B13.14.69", "lines": ["With noble lions gathered at his side,", "We shall return in triumph, satisfied."]}, {"id": "B13.14.70", "lines": ["We shall behold Khosrow before his men,", "And tell him of the griefs we suffered then."]}, {"id": "B13.14.71", "lines": ["We will report to that triumphant king", "All open, hidden deeds this war may bring."]}, {"id": "B13.14.72", "lines": ["Through royal kindness, through the Shah’s own grace,", "Each man shall find good fortune in its place.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.73", "lines": ["A swift courier then sped upon its way,", "To bear their message to the Shah that day."]}, {"id": "B13.14.74", "lines": ["Both sides ceased fighting, spent from what they bore;", "The field stood balanced, even as before."]}, {"id": "B13.14.75", "lines": ["On both sides scouts advanced upon the plain,", "Where valiant warriors had been newly slain."]}, {"id": "B13.14.76", "lines": ["Houman came forth; dead bodies choked the way,", "And spoke to wise Piran without delay:"]}, {"id": "B13.14.77", "lines": ["“Withdraw today; this battle missed our aim;", "Let proven horsemen rest, their strength reclaim."]}, {"id": "B13.14.78", "lines": ["Then I shall wage a fight of such a kind,", "No sun or moon its equal yet could find.”"]}, {"id": "B13.14.79", "lines": ["Their counsel ended; each withdrew apart,", "Intent upon the schemes within his heart."]}, {"id": "B13.15.1", "lines": ["News came to Kay Khosrow: “Piran prevails;", "Tus has withdrawn; his star of fortune fails."]}, {"id": "B13.15.2", "lines": ["Full many chieftains vanished in the fight,", "And Iran’s heart was darkened by their plight."]}, {"id": "B13.15.3", "lines": ["The house of Gudarz, Keshvad’s son, stood bare,", "Its chiefs and nobles lost in battle’s snare."]}, {"id": "B13.15.4", "lines": ["Their star lamented over beds of pain,", "While blood beside their pillows left its stain."]}, {"id": "B13.15.5", "lines": ["The world was dust and blood from that dark blow;", "The lofty star of Tus had fallen low.”"]}, {"id": "B13.15.6", "lines": ["Khosrow heard this; his heart was overturned,", "And grief within the world-king fiercely burned."]}, {"id": "B13.15.7", "lines": ["He called the Piltan Rostam to his hall,", "And summoned with him those who heard his call."]}, {"id": "B13.15.8", "lines": ["Iran’s Mobadan and its sages came,", "Men tried by years, experience, and fame."]}, {"id": "B13.15.9", "lines": ["Khosrow, the chief of chieftains, loosed his tongue,", "And told how battle’s wrath had burned and stung."]}, {"id": "B13.15.10", "lines": ["He said to Rostam: “High exalted one,", "I fear our ancient state is overrun."]}, {"id": "B13.15.11", "lines": ["My heart is full of fear and dark dismay;", "Our ancient fortune turns from us today."]}, {"id": "B13.15.12", "lines": ["You fostered crown and throne in former days;", "World-ruling fortune shines beneath your rays."]}, {"id": "B13.15.13", "lines": ["The heart of heaven rests upon your blade;", "Beneath you earth and sky and time are laid."]}, {"id": "B13.15.14", "lines": ["You tore the White Div’s heart and brain apart;", "The age has built its hopes upon your heart."]}, {"id": "B13.15.15", "lines": ["The earth round Rakhsh stands servant at your side,", "And Time, a loving mother, is your guide."]}, {"id": "B13.15.16", "lines": ["Your flashing sword can scorch the sun’s bright ray,", "While Venus weeps when gorz-blows rule the day."]}, {"id": "B13.15.17", "lines": ["Your feathered shafts, pointed, make lions tire", "Of battle on the day of bale and fire."]}, {"id": "B13.15.18", "lines": ["Since you became a man and wore a helm,", "No foe has cast his eye toward Iran’s realm."]}, {"id": "B13.15.19", "lines": ["Now Tus and Giv, Gudarz, and other chiefs,", "With men of this land burdened by their griefs,"]}, {"id": "B13.15.20", "lines": ["Have fled with tearful eyes and hearts of blood,", "Before Afrasiab’s ranks in battle’s flood."]}, {"id": "B13.15.21", "lines": ["Full many of Gudarz’s noble band", "Lie with the earth as bed across the land."]}, {"id": "B13.15.22", "lines": ["Those who escaped the slaughter still survive", "On Hamavan, where broken spirits strive."]}, {"id": "B13.15.23", "lines": ["They lift their heads to heaven in their prayer,", "To Him who holds all time and place in care,"]}, {"id": "B13.15.24", "lines": ["That Rostam Piltan may reach this land,", "By Yazdan’s power and at my command."]}, {"id": "B13.15.25", "lines": ["As through the letter in dark night I went,", "My liver’s blood in bitter grief was spent."]}, {"id": "B13.15.26", "lines": ["For three days I told no one of this grief,", "Save God, the Helper, source of all relief."]}, {"id": "B13.15.27", "lines": ["But now this grief has passed all mortal bounds;", "My heart is ringed by fear that still surrounds."]}, {"id": "B13.15.28", "lines": ["The army and its chief place hope in you;", "Stay bright in soul, in body sound and true."]}, {"id": "B13.15.29", "lines": ["May green your head remain, your heart rejoice;", "May ill men never harm old Zal by choice."]}, {"id": "B13.15.30", "lines": ["Ask what you will; I grant it as your right:", "Steeds, arms, and treasure, troops equipped for fight."]}, {"id": "B13.15.31", "lines": ["Go with good counsel and a joyful heart;", "So great a work must not be done in part.”"]}, {"id": "B13.15.32", "lines": ["The hero answered: “May your crown and ring", "Still flourish with you, just and noble king."]}, {"id": "B13.15.33", "lines": ["No king like you has heaven seen arise,", "In farr and burz, in counsel just and wise."]}, {"id": "B13.15.34", "lines": ["The Shah knows well that since Qobad first wore", "The royal crown and opened kingship’s door,"]}, {"id": "B13.15.35", "lines": ["For Iran’s vengeance I have girded tight,", "And never spent one day apart from fight."]}, {"id": "B13.15.36", "lines": ["Through wilderness and darkness, Div and dread,", "Through lions, spells, and dragons I have sped."]}, {"id": "B13.15.37", "lines": ["Through Turan, Mazandaran, blackest night,", "Through many heavy gorz raised high to smite."]}, {"id": "B13.15.38", "lines": ["Long journeys, thirst, and hardship shaped my days;", "I chose toil’s door above all softer ways."]}, {"id": "B13.15.39", "lines": ["So many toils and hardships have I known,", "No day of joy or ease I called my own."]}, {"id": "B13.15.40", "lines": ["You are the king of earth; I serve your throne,", "And stand prepared, your purpose to be shown."]}, {"id": "B13.15.41", "lines": ["My waist is girded; with an army’s might,", "I will turn Iran’s evil back in fight,"]}, {"id": "B13.15.42", "lines": ["Do not mourn the warriors who fought and died;", "Let every foe fall back on every side."]}, {"id": "B13.15.43", "lines": ["For Gudarz’s kin my liver burns with pain;", "I gird my waist in mourning for the slain.”"]}, {"id": "B13.15.44", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow heard Rostam, tears arose;", "Two streams ran down the Shah’s face in his woes."]}, {"id": "B13.15.45", "lines": ["He said: “Without you life has lost its glow;", "I want no orung, crown, or gorz or bow."]}, {"id": "B13.15.46", "lines": ["Let heaven’s vault be captured by your chain,", "And crowned heads lie in bonds beneath your reign.”"]}, {"id": "B13.15.47", "lines": ["The treasurer unlocked the royal store,", "And brought out crowns and jewels by the score,"]}, {"id": "B13.15.48", "lines": ["With kolah, bows and kamand, belts and gear,", "And sacks of silver coin were gathered near."]}, {"id": "B13.15.49", "lines": ["The Shah gave all to Rostam and then said:", "“O warrior whose fame is widely spread,"]}, {"id": "B13.15.50", "lines": ["Go with Zabulistan’s gorz-bearing band,", "And Kabul’s mighty warriors at your hand."]}, {"id": "B13.15.51", "lines": ["Move swift as wind; do not delay your pace,", "And let no soldier linger in his place."]}, {"id": "B13.15.52", "lines": ["Choose thirty thousand swordsmen, battle-tried,", "Prepared for war, with danger at their side."]}, {"id": "B13.15.53", "lines": ["Give troops to Fariborz, Kavus’s son,", "To lead the van until revenge is won.”"]}, {"id": "B13.15.54", "lines": ["Then peerless Rostam kissed the ground and said:", "“Rein and stirrup, cohorts where I am led."]}, {"id": "B13.15.55", "lines": ["We will urge on the chiefs; let ease and rest", "Be far from us till war has passed its test.”"]}, {"id": "B13.15.56", "lines": ["He paid the troops in silver on the plain,", "And armed for battle with his fighting train."]}, {"id": "B13.15.57", "lines": ["He said to Fariborz: “At dawn, depart,", "And lead the vanguard with a steadfast heart."]}, {"id": "B13.15.58", "lines": ["Sleep neither day nor night upon the way,", "Until you reach Tus where the armies stay."]}, {"id": "B13.15.59", "lines": ["Say to him: ‘Do not rush into the fray;", "Use stratagem, and hold the foe at bay."]}, {"id": "B13.15.60", "lines": ["I come behind you swiftly as the gale,", "And on the road my speed will never fail."]}, {"id": "B13.15.61", "lines": ["With Gorgin, son of Milad, at your side,", "Battle-tried in good and ill to guide.’”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.1", "lines": ["Fariborz came to Rostam, heart intent,", "And spoke the secret wish his purpose meant:"]}, {"id": "B13.16.2", "lines": ["“Crown-bestowing chief, with Rakhsh and khaftan bright,", "With gopal raised, you guard the crown in fight."]}, {"id": "B13.16.3", "lines": ["I bear within my heart a secret prayer,", "That I can speak to none but you and share."]}, {"id": "B13.16.4", "lines": ["O Pahlevan, the refuge of the field,", "Before whose might the proudest warriors yield,"]}, {"id": "B13.16.5", "lines": ["Through you our champions lift helmets high;", "May God preserve you under turning sky."]}, {"id": "B13.16.6", "lines": ["The royal ring and crown stand firm through you,", "The signet and Iran’s renown stand true."]}, {"id": "B13.16.7", "lines": ["Know, Siavash and I, by blood allied,", "Were brothers, standing ever side by side."]}, {"id": "B13.16.8", "lines": ["It is most fitting I should wed his wife,", "A mate well matched to me in rank and life."]}, {"id": "B13.16.9", "lines": ["Urge this upon the Shah, exalted guide,", "And crown my head by setting her beside.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.10", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered: “What you ask, I do;", "Whatever you desire, I shall see through.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.11", "lines": ["The elephantine chief approached and said:", "“O famed Khosrow, whose crown adorns your head,"]}, {"id": "B13.16.12", "lines": ["I have a matter I would raise on high,", "To lift my head beyond the moonlit sky."]}, {"id": "B13.16.13", "lines": ["I ask it only by the monarch’s leave,", "For God approves what just men should receive.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.14", "lines": ["Khosrow replied: “Speak freely what you pray;", "Whatever you desire, speak it today.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.15", "lines": ["“Through you both love and justice reach mankind,", "And hold the world in balance, well combined."]}, {"id": "B13.16.16", "lines": ["Like heaven with two faces turned below,", "Your justice and your loving mercy flow."]}, {"id": "B13.16.17", "lines": ["Among the chiefs, Fariborz leads the rest;", "No prince surpasses him in valor’s test."]}, {"id": "B13.16.18", "lines": ["For wisdom and for prowess, I can find", "No prince of royal worth to match his mind."]}, {"id": "B13.16.19", "lines": ["He seeks Siavash’s place beside his bride,", "To fill the place his brother held, who died."]}, {"id": "B13.16.20", "lines": ["When he rides out to avenge his brother’s blood,", "And bears his sword against Turan’s dark flood,"]}, {"id": "B13.16.21", "lines": ["Let Afrasiab’s daughter guard his hall,", "His wealth, and share each care that may befall."]}, {"id": "B13.16.22", "lines": ["Let these two shine together, sun and moon,", "One royal house beneath one blessed boon.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.23", "lines": ["Khosrow consented when he heard the plea,", "And said: “Famed man, whose counsel strengthens me,"]}, {"id": "B13.16.24", "lines": ["Fortune tramples those who turn aside", "From words that you in wisdom have supplied."]}, {"id": "B13.16.25", "lines": ["Nothing but good can come from words you say;", "Live glorious and honored every day."]}, {"id": "B13.16.26", "lines": ["Yet I cannot urge this, as you know well;", "Such speech from me would not be wise to tell."]}, {"id": "B13.16.27", "lines": ["But if my mother will consent to hear,", "I shall present your counsel, just and clear.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.28", "lines": ["Together then they sought the moonlike dame,", "Rostam the peerless and the Shah of fame."]}, {"id": "B13.16.29", "lines": ["Khosrow said: “Memory of my father’s face,", "In good and ill, my refuge and my grace,"]}, {"id": "B13.16.30", "lines": ["Though I may rule, you are my Shah and guide;", "Your wisdom stands above my royal pride."]}, {"id": "B13.16.31", "lines": ["You know the army’s toil in Turan’s war,", "And how our mighty men are here no more."]}, {"id": "B13.16.32", "lines": ["You know how many noble warriors lie,", "While women mourn their empty homes and cry."]}, {"id": "B13.16.33", "lines": ["I mean to send a force with Rostam, Zal’s son,", "To turn our shame to grief when war is won."]}, {"id": "B13.16.34", "lines": ["Fariborz shall then lead the vanguard line,", "While Rostam makes the field with valor shine."]}, {"id": "B13.16.35", "lines": ["Rostam has asked, for Fariborz, your hand;", "Tell me your pleasure; let me understand."]}, {"id": "B13.16.36", "lines": ["May greatness and all good attend your days,", "And fortune crown you with enduring praise.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.37", "lines": ["On hearing this, old memories returned;", "Her heart grew vexed, and former sorrow burned."]}, {"id": "B13.16.38", "lines": ["Then tears arose; at last she spoke her mind:", "“I do not blame great Rostam, just and kind."]}, {"id": "B13.16.39", "lines": ["I do not blame him; yet, if I were free,", "This is no time for marriage now for me."]}, {"id": "B13.16.40", "lines": ["Who but the heavens could refuse his plea,", "When Rostam asks for such a gift from me?”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.41", "lines": ["Then Rostam said to her: “O dame of dames,", "Whose spotless worth the voice of honor names,"]}, {"id": "B13.16.42", "lines": ["May all your foes be broken into dust;", "Now hear the counsel that I deem most just."]}, {"id": "B13.16.43", "lines": ["You know a woman does not rest alone;", "She needs a fitting partner in her home."]}, {"id": "B13.16.44", "lines": ["And youth with youth is fittingly allied;", "The young should have their equal at their side."]}, {"id": "B13.16.45", "lines": ["Best of all is one of Kayanian race,", "A mate of crown, of lineage, and grace."]}, {"id": "B13.16.46", "lines": ["Man lives for woman’s sake, and woman’s heart", "Yearns for her mate with no divided part."]}, {"id": "B13.16.47", "lines": ["Victorious Fariborz, Kavus’s son,", "Is fit to wear the crown when deeds are done."]}, {"id": "B13.16.48", "lines": ["The throne itself gains luster from his name;", "His royal blood and worth uphold his fame."]}, {"id": "B13.16.49", "lines": ["He was Siavash’s brother and his peer,", "Of one great royal house and lineage clear."]}, {"id": "B13.16.50", "lines": ["He rules the greater part of Iran’s land,", "And many realms lie under his command."]}, {"id": "B13.16.51", "lines": ["The settled country and the desert plain", "Alike are his to govern and maintain."]}, {"id": "B13.16.52", "lines": ["By leave, advice, and order of the king,", "I urge the match that Fariborz would bring."]}, {"id": "B13.16.53", "lines": ["What do you say? Is Fariborz approved?", "Is this a match by which your heart is moved?"]}, {"id": "B13.16.54", "lines": ["Do you regard him fitting at your side,", "In crown and lineage worthy as your guide?"]}, {"id": "B13.16.55", "lines": ["You will do well to heed the words I give,", "The Shah’s advice, by which the great should live.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.56", "lines": ["The Shah of ladies sat in silent grief,", "While sorrow pressed her heart without relief."]}, {"id": "B13.16.57", "lines": ["Before her son, shame held her tongue in place;", "At last she sighed and raised her grieving face."]}, {"id": "B13.16.58", "lines": ["Then, sighing deeply, she to Rostam said:", "“O leader whose great prowess crowns your head,"]}, {"id": "B13.16.59", "lines": ["Though none in Iran equals Siavash in fame,", "Fariborz bears a royal, honored name."]}, {"id": "B13.16.60", "lines": ["Yet none can make Siavash’s glory fade;", "No man can fill the place that prince once made."]}, {"id": "B13.16.61", "lines": ["Yet at your words my tongue is bound in chain;", "Against your counsel I cannot complain."]}, {"id": "B13.16.62", "lines": ["What does the famous monarch ask of me?", "I gird myself to honor his decree.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.63", "lines": ["Khosrow rejoiced to hear the words she said;", "His face bloomed like a spring rose newly spread."]}, {"id": "B13.16.64", "lines": ["He turned to Rostam: “Bring this to its end;", "Proceed at once; no further time expend.”"]}, {"id": "B13.16.65", "lines": ["Since Rostam pressed, and she at last agreed,", "They called the Mobadan to seal the deed."]}, {"id": "B13.16.66", "lines": ["The marriage contract then was drawn and read;", "Farangis joined with Fariborz to wed."]}, {"id": "B13.16.67", "lines": ["By wedding Khosrow’s mother in that rite,", "He entered royal kinship in full right."]}, {"id": "B13.16.68", "lines": ["Favored by Kay Khosrow and Rostam too,", "His dignity and rank in honor grew."]}, {"id": "B13.16.69", "lines": ["The Shah gave robe of honor, new crown, fame;", "Three days he stayed; the fourth departure came."]}, {"id": "B13.16.70", "lines": ["Then Rostam with his warriors took the plain,", "While Fariborz advanced with martial train."]}, {"id": "B13.16.71", "lines": ["Fariborz went before, a star on high;", "His splendor shone like starlight in the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.16.72", "lines": ["At sunrise then the karnay sounded clear;", "And Rostam moved the army without fear."]}, {"id": "B13.16.73", "lines": ["Khosrow rode two farsangs beside the train,", "Then turned while Rostam hurried toward the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.16.74", "lines": ["Two stages Rostam made as one each day,", "And neither day nor night would rest or stay."]}, {"id": "B13.17.1", "lines": ["One night, when drumbeat marked the darkened hour,", "Tus slept, heart-seared beneath grief’s heavy power."]}, {"id": "B13.17.2", "lines": ["From water’s depth a sudden radiance came,", "And through the darkness rose a living flame."]}, {"id": "B13.17.3", "lines": ["An ivory throne stood radiant in its light,", "With Siavash enthroned there, crowned and bright."]}, {"id": "B13.17.4", "lines": ["His smiling lips and gentle speech drew near,", "His sun-bright face shone radiant and clear."]}, {"id": "B13.17.5", "lines": ["He turned to Tus and spoke, his words sincere:", "“Keep all Iran’s assembled warriors here."]}, {"id": "B13.17.6", "lines": ["For victory shall come when battle calls;", "Grieve not for Gudarz’s kin whom death enthralls."]}, {"id": "B13.17.7", "lines": ["For here a fresh rose-garden now is made,", "Where we shall drink beneath its flowering shade."]}, {"id": "B13.17.8", "lines": ["Who knows how long beneath these blooms we stay,", "Or how long wine will gladden us this way?”"]}, {"id": "B13.17.9", "lines": ["Then Tus awoke, his grief and pain withdrawn,", "And turned with joy to Gudarz, Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "B13.17.10", "lines": ["“I saw a vision; mark these words of mine:", "Rostam will come like wind to aid our line.”"]}, {"id": "B13.17.11", "lines": ["He bade the ney resound; from every height", "The mountain poured forth warriors armed for fight."]}, {"id": "B13.17.12", "lines": ["The men of Iran armed themselves for war,", "And raised the Kaviani flag they bore."]}, {"id": "B13.17.13", "lines": ["Piran advanced with all his army’s might,", "Their dust turned black the sun’s resplendent light."]}, {"id": "B13.17.14", "lines": ["The champions shouted; arrows filled the sky,", "Their storm of shafts dazzled the sun’s bright eye."]}, {"id": "B13.17.15", "lines": ["The two sides met, but none came forth to show", "Himself as champion before the foe."]}, {"id": "B13.17.16", "lines": ["Then Houman said to wise Piran: “Attack.", "Why pause so long or hold the army back?"]}, {"id": "B13.17.17", "lines": ["These troops have not come hunting through the plain;", "Both man and beast bear battle’s weight and pain.”"]}, {"id": "B13.17.18", "lines": ["Piran replied: “Do not be rash today;", "This is no time for haste in what we say."]}, {"id": "B13.17.19", "lines": ["Last night three men, with but a paltry band,", "Attacked before our ranks could make a stand."]}, {"id": "B13.17.20", "lines": ["They came like hungry lions, fierce and bold;", "We were the flock they scattered in the cold."]}, {"id": "B13.17.21", "lines": ["I found the whole plain like a stream of blood,", "With famous heads laid low within the mud."]}, {"id": "B13.17.22", "lines": ["Iran’s men starve upon that barren height;", "Their chargers smell dry thorns as musk tonight."]}, {"id": "B13.17.23", "lines": ["Wait till they burn upon the crags and die,", "Without resource beneath this mountain’s sky."]}, {"id": "B13.17.24", "lines": ["Bar every road before them and behind;", "Leave not one open path that they may find."]}, {"id": "B13.17.25", "lines": ["If toil-free capture comes into our hand,", "Why spoil it now through haste against their band?"]}, {"id": "B13.17.26", "lines": ["Why seek a battle when their strength is slight?", "Let ten swift horsemen scout the plain tonight."]}, {"id": "B13.17.27", "lines": ["Wait till their food and water stores run bare,", "And come to us for zanhar in despair."]}, {"id": "B13.17.28", "lines": ["Unless they feed on thorn and flint for grain,", "When fodder fails, they cannot long remain.”"]}, {"id": "B13.17.29", "lines": ["They left the field and sought their tents that night,", "While scouts stood posted facing toward the height."]}, {"id": "B13.17.30", "lines": ["The warriors loosed their girdles after strife,", "And turned to food and rest to strengthen life."]}, {"id": "B13.17.31", "lines": ["Tus too withdrew, his heart with blood oppressed,", "His face turned ebony beneath distress."]}, {"id": "B13.17.32", "lines": ["He said to old Gudarz: “Our case is dark;", "Iran’s good fortune shows no guiding spark."]}, {"id": "B13.17.33", "lines": ["Their armies ring us; beasts must feed on thorn,", "While little food remains when day is born."]}, {"id": "B13.17.34", "lines": ["No remedy remains for our hard lot,", "But sword and gopal when the food is not."]}, {"id": "B13.17.35", "lines": ["Draw swords at dawn and rank along the height;", "If fortune favors us, we stand and fight."]}, {"id": "B13.17.36", "lines": ["But if the Judge of heaven ends us here,", "Then let us fall by steel, and scorning fear."]}, {"id": "B13.17.37", "lines": ["What He decrees no mortal hand can stay;", "Do not count breaths in dread before the fray."]}, {"id": "B13.17.38", "lines": ["Death crowned with fame is better for the brave", "Than life in fear and harm till comes the grave.”"]}, {"id": "B13.17.39", "lines": ["The chiefs agreed upon the plan as one,", "Which their fortunate sepahbod had begun."]}, {"id": "B13.18.1", "lines": ["When sun from Cancer tore the musk-dark veil,", "A messenger to Piran rode the trail."]}, {"id": "B13.18.2", "lines": ["He came from Afrasiab to Piran’s side,", "And said: “Great armies gather like a tide."]}, {"id": "B13.18.3", "lines": ["From every quarter armies gather near;", "Their dust would turn the Sea of Chin to desert sere."]}, {"id": "B13.18.4", "lines": ["One chief from Mawarannahr stands bold,", "His head rises past heaven’s turning fold."]}, {"id": "B13.18.5", "lines": ["He bears a hundred lions’ strength in fight,", "And brings great elephants beneath his might."]}, {"id": "B13.18.6", "lines": ["In height a cypress, moonlike in his face,", "With crowns and thrones as playthings of his place."]}, {"id": "B13.18.7", "lines": ["Kamus, this chief of chiefs, has come to war,", "And Tus and old Gudarz shall feel his roar."]}, {"id": "B13.18.8", "lines": ["From Sipanjab to Rum their ranks extend,", "All peopled lands their fighting armies send."]}, {"id": "B13.18.9", "lines": ["Afrasiab has sent them to the fray,", "To bring down Tus and Khosrow in their day."]}, {"id": "B13.18.10", "lines": ["First comes the Khan of Chin with crown and throne,", "The earth his seat, the sky his crown, his own."]}, {"id": "B13.18.11", "lines": ["Brave Manshur follows, whose sharp falchion’s thrust", "Lays warriors’ heads in battle’s choking dust."]}, {"id": "B13.18.12", "lines": ["Then comes Kamus, the swordsman none can beat,", "From Kashan, who has never known defeat."]}, {"id": "B13.18.13", "lines": ["All prospers in his hand; when wrath winds blow,", "His anger brings the bitter wind and snow.”"]}, {"id": "B13.18.14", "lines": ["Piran addressed Turan’s assembled line:", "“O chiefs and men who bear the kingly sign,"]}, {"id": "B13.18.15", "lines": ["Rejoice, all chiefs and warriors, at this news;", "Let every grieving heart its joy now choose."]}, {"id": "B13.18.16", "lines": ["Now wash away the sorrow in your hearts;", "Let joy return as grief at last departs."]}, {"id": "B13.18.17", "lines": ["I will leave neither field nor crop in peace;", "Iran’s tilled lands and harvests all shall cease."]}, {"id": "B13.18.18", "lines": ["The king’s long toil is ended with this hour;", "Revenge and mustering no more drain his power."]}, {"id": "B13.18.19", "lines": ["You shall behold Afrasiab’s might expand", "Through Iran, Turan, sea and solid land.”"]}, {"id": "B13.18.20", "lines": ["From those approaching powers, heralds came,", "Each bringing tidings of new kings of fame."]}, {"id": "B13.18.21", "lines": ["They said: “O famous Pahlevan, rejoice;", "Let joy arise in every heart and voice."]}, {"id": "B13.18.22", "lines": ["Be glad to see these kings before your sight;", "Let every grief within your heart take flight."]}, {"id": "B13.18.23", "lines": ["From Kashmir to the Shahd their forces ride,", "With elephants, mahd, standards at their side."]}, {"id": "B13.18.24", "lines": ["From Saklab Kundur comes, a lion bold,", "And Biward comes from Kat, in battle old."]}, {"id": "B13.18.25", "lines": ["From Sagzar comes brave Garcha in the van;", "From Hind comes Shangul with his fighting clan."]}, {"id": "B13.18.26", "lines": ["Standards fill the air from side to side,", "And swords across the earth spread far and wide."]}, {"id": "B13.18.27", "lines": ["Chaghan sends Fartus, light of every field;", "Gahan sends Gahar, fire where foemen yield."]}, {"id": "B13.18.28", "lines": ["Shamiran comes from Shakn, first of the age,", "Whose spear and sword pour poison in their rage."]}, {"id": "B13.18.29", "lines": ["Now lift your head and take your pleasure here;", "This news would make an old man young with cheer.”"]}, {"id": "B13.18.30", "lines": ["Piran laughed aloud, his spirit restored;", "New life appeared within that aged lord."]}, {"id": "B13.18.31", "lines": ["He said to Houman: “I will go to meet", "These kings who crossed long roads with weary feet."]}, {"id": "B13.18.32", "lines": ["They come prepared for battle, full of care;", "Their heads with Afrasiab’s height compare."]}, {"id": "B13.18.33", "lines": ["They bear great treasure, luster, throne, and state;", "I shall assess each army and its weight."]}, {"id": "B13.18.34", "lines": ["I will learn numbers, chiefs, and champions too,", "Then bow before the Khan, as is his due."]}, {"id": "B13.18.35", "lines": ["I will kiss the earth before the Khan’s high seat,", "And look upon Kamus when first we meet."]}, {"id": "B13.18.36", "lines": ["I will send out Shangul, Tus himself to face;", "Then gird my waist and rob Iran of breath and grace."]}, {"id": "B13.18.37", "lines": ["If they cannot withstand our coming might,", "Their day shall grow both dark and strait in fight."]}, {"id": "B13.18.38", "lines": ["I shall bind their chiefs, if any still remain,", "With heavy bonds on feet and necks in chain."]}, {"id": "B13.18.39", "lines": ["Those who survive among Iran’s armed band", "I shall send bound to Afrasiab’s hand."]}, {"id": "B13.18.40", "lines": ["I shall not rest or sleep till all is done;", "The captured footmen I shall seize as one."]}, {"id": "B13.18.41", "lines": ["Behead the captives, set their flesh aflare,", "And cast their ashes on the empty air."]}, {"id": "B13.18.42", "lines": ["Then I will think no more about that place;", "Another plan shall take its former space."]}, {"id": "B13.18.43", "lines": ["I shall divide our army in three bands,", "And darken thus the Shah of Iran’s lands."]}, {"id": "B13.18.44", "lines": ["One line to Balkh I shall send forth in wrath,", "To make Iran’s day dark along that path."]}, {"id": "B13.18.45", "lines": ["Another army shall march on Kabul’s plain,", "And bear Zabulistan’s ashes in its train."]}, {"id": "B13.18.46", "lines": ["The third, with Turanian lion-men arrayed,", "I shall lead on where Iran’s lines are laid."]}, {"id": "B13.18.47", "lines": ["I will spare neither old nor young in strife,", "Nor woman, man, nor child who clings to life."]}, {"id": "B13.18.48", "lines": ["I shall lay Iran’s settled country low,", "Nor spare the open lands where wild winds blow."]}, {"id": "B13.18.49", "lines": ["May neither hand nor foot be spared in fight;", "But wait for my command before you smite.”"]}, {"id": "B13.18.50", "lines": ["Thus spoke Piran, revenge within his breast;", "His skin seemed near to bursting from unrest."]}, {"id": "B13.18.51", "lines": ["Then Houman told the troops: “Cast care away;", "For two full days maintain this watch and stay."]}, {"id": "B13.18.52", "lines": ["Keep both your eyes on Hamavan’s steep height,", "And guard its every passage day and night."]}, {"id": "B13.18.53", "lines": ["Let no Iranian slip away unseen", "By night from this confined and narrow scene."]}, {"id": "B13.18.54", "lines": ["Soon mountain, river, valley, plain, and road", "Will fill with standards and our army’s load.”"]}, {"id": "B13.19.1", "lines": ["When Piran reached the allied camp, so vast", "That hooves hid plain and valley, thickly massed,"]}, {"id": "B13.19.2", "lines": ["The tents and rich enclosures filled the ground,", "With red and yellow, blue and violet crowned."]}, {"id": "B13.19.3", "lines": ["Amid each camp a royal standard shone,", "Of diba and parniyan richly sewn."]}, {"id": "B13.19.4", "lines": ["Amazed, he pondered on that wondrous show,", "And searched his heart to grasp what lay below."]}, {"id": "B13.19.5", "lines": ["“Is this Paradise, or banquet bright,", "The starry heaven, or moon’s circling light?”"]}, {"id": "B13.19.6", "lines": ["Afoot he came and kissed the ground in greeting;", "The Khan received him gladly at their meeting."]}, {"id": "B13.19.7", "lines": ["The Khan embraced him, marveling at his frame,", "His chest and neck, his stature and his fame."]}, {"id": "B13.19.8", "lines": ["He questioned him at length, with honor shown,", "And seated Piran near him on the throne."]}, {"id": "B13.19.9", "lines": ["He said: “My soul is bright with joy today,", "To sit beside a Pahlevan this way.”"]}, {"id": "B13.19.10", "lines": ["He asked: “Among Iran’s assembled band,", "Who bears the signet, crown, and standard grand?"]}, {"id": "B13.19.11", "lines": ["What troops and chiefs are gathered in their train?", "Why do they hold Mount Hamavan’s domain?”"]}, {"id": "B13.19.12", "lines": ["Piran replied: “O king of lasting praise,", "May God, the Maker, bless your crown and days."]}, {"id": "B13.19.13", "lines": ["Your questions bring deep gladness to my heart;", "Your fortune makes me sound, and grief depart."]}, {"id": "B13.19.14", "lines": ["My soul desired the dust beneath your feet;", "No other wish or joy could seem so sweet."]}, {"id": "B13.19.15", "lines": ["Iran’s men have no signet, crown, or throne;", "No royal splendor can they call their own."]}, {"id": "B13.19.16", "lines": ["They sought a war beyond all measure known,", "And gained from all their striving only stone."]}, {"id": "B13.19.17", "lines": ["Dishonored, foiled, and weakened in the fight,", "They fled to Hamavan in headlong flight."]}, {"id": "B13.19.18", "lines": ["Their leader Tus, a warrior renowned,", "Fears not the lion roaming battleground."]}, {"id": "B13.19.19", "lines": ["Their chiefs are Gudarz, Keshvad’s noble son,", "With Giv and Rohham, famed for battles won."]}, {"id": "B13.19.20", "lines": ["By fortune of the Khan, whose crown is bright,", "Their chief shall see no other army’s might."]}, {"id": "B13.19.21", "lines": ["They will not leave the rocks to fight below;", "Save flinty stone, no refuge do they know.”"]}, {"id": "B13.19.22", "lines": ["The Khan replied: “Stay near me, you and yours;", "Bring all your chosen comrades to my doors."]}, {"id": "B13.19.23", "lines": ["Today we drink our wine with joyful cheer;", "Count not tomorrow’s grief till it is here.”"]}, {"id": "B13.19.24", "lines": ["He decked his tent to bloom as gardens spring;", "Its colors made a heaven for the king."]}, {"id": "B13.20.1", "lines": ["When sunlight climbed and filled the world with light,", "Tus and Gudarz grew troubled at the sight."]}, {"id": "B13.20.2", "lines": ["“Why do Turanians hold their ranks in place?", "Do they take counsel, or has wine dulled their pace?"]}, {"id": "B13.20.3", "lines": ["In joy or grief, we must prepare for ill;", "From hostile men I trust no peaceful will."]}, {"id": "B13.20.4", "lines": ["If fresh battalions have reinforced their line,", "Then evil fortune darkens our design."]}, {"id": "B13.20.5", "lines": ["Count all Iran’s assembled army dead,", "Or, if alive, as fugitives who fled."]}, {"id": "B13.20.6", "lines": ["If Rostam does not hasten to our side,", "This army’s weight will break us like a tide."]}, {"id": "B13.20.7", "lines": ["No ossuary or grave shall be our bed;", "Their horses’ hooves will pound each fallen head.”"]}, {"id": "B13.20.8", "lines": ["Giv said to Tus: “Why let your mind be crossed,", "O Shah’s sepahbod, thinking all is lost?"]}, {"id": "B13.20.9", "lines": ["Our thought is otherwise; the Maker stands", "Beside us still, the Helper of our bands."]}, {"id": "B13.20.10", "lines": ["We have sown seeds of goodness on our way,", "And serve the World-Creator and obey."]}, {"id": "B13.20.11", "lines": ["Trust in the fortune of our world-ruling king,", "Whose sword and throne and crown have sovereign ring."]}, {"id": "B13.20.12", "lines": ["The World-Creator will not leave our line", "Beneath ill-wishers’ yoke by His design."]}, {"id": "B13.20.13", "lines": ["When Rostam comes and reaches battleground,", "Our army’s troubles all will cease around."]}, {"id": "B13.20.14", "lines": ["Let no man cease to trust in Yazdan’s might,", "Though bright day should be swallowed into night."]}, {"id": "B13.20.15", "lines": ["Do not constrict your heart with needless fear,", "Because one day they have not battled here."]}, {"id": "B13.20.16", "lines": ["They have not shut the gates of heaven’s grace;", "Each ill design will end and lose its place."]}, {"id": "B13.20.17", "lines": ["If the High Maker has decreed our pain,", "Then harm may come despite what we ordain."]}, {"id": "B13.20.18", "lines": ["No anxious thought, no caution born of fear,", "Can turn aside the fate that draws us near."]}, {"id": "B13.20.19", "lines": ["Let us construct a trench before our line,", "As warriors do when danger gives its sign."]}, {"id": "B13.20.20", "lines": ["Then keep our swords drawn ready for the fray;", "Two further days we hold ourselves this way."]}, {"id": "B13.20.21", "lines": ["Then we shall see what purpose they intend,", "And bring their hidden counsel to an end."]}, {"id": "B13.20.22", "lines": ["News from Iran will surely come to light,", "And make our lofty cypress-bough shine bright.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.1", "lines": ["Gudarz departed from the ranks below,", "And climbed the mountain crest to scan the foe."]}, {"id": "B13.21.2", "lines": ["The lookout cried, his heart oppressed with woe:", "“Disaster has undone Iran, I know,"]}, {"id": "B13.21.3", "lines": ["The shining sun declined across the sky,", "And drew its golden splendor from on high."]}, {"id": "B13.21.4", "lines": ["The world grew dark as lapis through the haze,", "As rising dust engulfed the daylight’s blaze."]}, {"id": "B13.21.5", "lines": ["The standards on the elephants flew wide;", "Their dust obscured the sun on every side.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.6", "lines": ["Gudarz heard and cried, “Dark earth all alone", "Can hide me from the grief my heart has known.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.7", "lines": ["His cheeks turned black as pitch; an arrow’s smart", "Seemed driven through the center of his heart."]}, {"id": "B13.21.8", "lines": ["He cried, “My share from Time is war and strife,", "Revenge and battle have consumed my life."]}, {"id": "B13.21.9", "lines": ["Ill fortune is the portion I have known;", "Where cure should be, its poison has been sown."]}, {"id": "B13.21.10", "lines": ["I had many a son and grandson brave,", "Renowned throughout the land, now in the grave."]}, {"id": "B13.21.11", "lines": ["For Siavash they fell, my noble dead;", "My wakeful fortune turned from me and fled."]}, {"id": "B13.21.12", "lines": ["I hope no more from life; my day is night;", "My fortune has turned black and lost its light."]}, {"id": "B13.21.13", "lines": ["I wish my mother never gave me birth,", "Nor high heaven ever turned above the earth.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.14", "lines": ["He told the watch: “Far-seeing, clear of mind,", "Look once again and tell me what you find."]}, {"id": "B13.21.15", "lines": ["Survey Iran and Turan from this height;", "Tell me what movement meets your searching sight."]}, {"id": "B13.21.16", "lines": ["Where is the banner of Iran’s great chief?", "Search left and right, and answer to my grief.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.17", "lines": ["The watchman said, “No movement marks our side;", "But all their army stirs both far and wide."]}, {"id": "B13.21.18", "lines": ["No stir is seen among our weary train;", "One might believe our warriors sleep in pain.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.19", "lines": ["The Pahlevan then shed his bitter tears,", "And cried aloud before his gathered peers:"]}, {"id": "B13.21.20", "lines": ["“Saddle my steed; let brick now be my bed;", "From this day forth let brick support my head."]}, {"id": "B13.21.21", "lines": ["I go once more to fill my eyes with friends,", "And clasp them close before our fortune ends."]}, {"id": "B13.21.22", "lines": ["Shidush and Bijan, Rohham, Giv the bold,", "I will embrace while arms can clasp and hold."]}, {"id": "B13.21.23", "lines": ["Those fiery warriors of noble breed,", "I will kiss their faces while my lashes bleed.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.24", "lines": ["His gallant bay stood saddled at his side,", "When from the height the watchman loudly cried:"]}, {"id": "B13.21.25", "lines": ["“Rejoice, world-Pahlevan; let sorrow cease,", "For aid from Iran comes to bring release."]}, {"id": "B13.21.26", "lines": ["A black dust rises on Iran’s road today,", "And darkens all the daylight on its way."]}, {"id": "B13.21.27", "lines": ["Within its heart, bright standards fill the gloom,", "Like moons that rise above a battle’s plume."]}, {"id": "B13.21.28", "lines": ["The first bears wolf-sign, fierce against the sky;", "The next displays the moon and rides on high."]}, {"id": "B13.21.29", "lines": ["The third, a dragon with a lion’s head,", "In gold, is blazing where the banners spread.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.30", "lines": ["Gudarz exclaimed, “Long may your life be charmed;", "May every evil glance pass by disarmed."]}, {"id": "B13.21.31", "lines": ["If what you tell proves true before my eyes,", "I will reward you with a royal prize."]}, {"id": "B13.21.32", "lines": ["I will bestow such varied wealth on you", "That want and hardship vanish from your view."]}, {"id": "B13.21.33", "lines": ["When we return to Iran’s royal land,", "And reach the throne where king and nobles stand,"]}, {"id": "B13.21.34", "lines": ["I will present you proudly at his throne,", "And lift your head where noble names are known."]}, {"id": "B13.21.35", "lines": ["Now leave the lookout; hasten down the height,", "And tell our chiefs all seen within your sight."]}, {"id": "B13.21.36", "lines": ["Be quick; send any rider you can find,", "And spread these tidings swiftly down the line.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.37", "lines": ["The watchman said, “I cannot leave this crest,", "For on my watching all the chiefs’ hopes rest."]}, {"id": "B13.21.38", "lines": ["But when the dark has sealed my watching eye,", "I will descend like Simorgh from the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.21.39", "lines": ["Then I will bear these tidings to our men,", "And give their weary hearts new strength again.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.40", "lines": ["Gudarz replied: “Stay watchful on this height;", "Look once again and sharpen well your sight."]}, {"id": "B13.21.41", "lines": ["See how much time remains before they near;", "Tell me the hour when they reach us here.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.42", "lines": ["The watchman said, “At dawn, when sunlight spills,", "That force will stand beside Hamavan’s hills.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.43", "lines": ["Such joy then filled Gudarz, so deep and bright,", "It might have brought the dead again to sight."]}, {"id": "B13.21.44", "lines": ["Piran, meanwhile, like flying dust-clouds wheeled,", "And led fresh Turan troops toward the field."]}, {"id": "B13.21.45", "lines": ["A horseman rode ahead to spread the word,", "And tell the joyful news that he had heard."]}, {"id": "B13.21.46", "lines": ["When Houman heard, he laughed aloud and said,", "“Our wakeful fortune walks with us ahead.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.47", "lines": ["From all Turan a shout of triumph rose,", "And climbed the clouds above their waiting foes."]}, {"id": "B13.21.48", "lines": ["Iran’s great nobles, full of care and pain,", "With yellow faces, lips of lapis stain,"]}, {"id": "B13.21.49", "lines": ["Withdrew in bands along the mountain wall,", "To take last counsel should the army fall."]}, {"id": "B13.21.50", "lines": ["They gathered everywhere and wailed aloud:", "“Woe for our warriors, royal and proud."]}, {"id": "B13.21.51", "lines": ["Forgotten by Iran and left to doom,", "We face the lion’s jaws, a living tomb."]}, {"id": "B13.21.52", "lines": ["Those lions’ mouths shall be the heroes’ grave,", "Their blood shall soak the earth in crimson wave.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.53", "lines": ["Tus spoke to Bijan: “Climb the height and see", "What force approaches, and report to me."]}, {"id": "B13.21.54", "lines": ["Mark well their numbers, leaders, and array;", "Observe their strength and road of march today."]}, {"id": "B13.21.55", "lines": ["Look for their camps, enclosures, thrones, and train;", "Report the fullest truth your eyes obtain.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.56", "lines": ["Bijan, the son of Giv, went up alone,", "And climbed the mountain over barren stone."]}, {"id": "B13.21.57", "lines": ["He saw flags, horsemen, elephants in rows,", "An army spread wherever eyesight goes."]}, {"id": "B13.21.58", "lines": ["He ran back down, with pain within his breast,", "And anxious care that would not let him rest."]}, {"id": "B13.21.59", "lines": ["He said, “The earth beneath wears indigo hue;", "Their troops and elephants block every view."]}, {"id": "B13.21.60", "lines": ["Their flags and spears outnumber thought or tongue;", "Sunlight dims where dust in heaven is hung."]}, {"id": "B13.21.61", "lines": ["No bound or measure marks that army’s sweep;", "The tabira deafens valley, crag, and steep.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.62", "lines": ["Tus heard; his heart was filled with bitter fears,", "And sorrow filled his face and eyes with tears."]}, {"id": "B13.21.63", "lines": ["He called the captains of Iran’s whole train,", "And grieved with them upon the army’s pain."]}, {"id": "B13.21.64", "lines": ["He said, “The turns of war bring grief and woe;", "I have seen triumph, flight, and overthrow."]}, {"id": "B13.21.65", "lines": ["Yet never has such fear oppressed my breast;", "One path remains, and action serves us best."]}, {"id": "B13.21.66", "lines": ["Though arms are few and few the men we field,", "We shall prepare to strike and never yield."]}, {"id": "B13.21.67", "lines": ["Tonight we strike and make the earth a flood,", "A Jihun running deep with foemen’s blood."]}, {"id": "B13.21.68", "lines": ["If I am slain, another chief will stand,", "While kings endure, to lead Iran’s armed band."]}, {"id": "B13.21.69", "lines": ["Let no man say a warrior died unknown;", "If Tus lies under earth, his fame has grown.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.70", "lines": ["The chiefs approved the course that Tus had planned,", "And all prepared to strike with sword in hand."]}, {"id": "B13.21.71", "lines": ["The earth became a sea of pitch-black night;", "Mars, Venus, Mercury withdrew from sight."]}, {"id": "B13.21.72", "lines": ["The moon from Pisces rose with silver light,", "And tore the dark robe down, with all its might."]}, {"id": "B13.21.73", "lines": ["The watchman hurried down with urgent pace,", "Like sandarac the color of his face."]}, {"id": "B13.21.74", "lines": ["He cried to Tus: “An army comes our way,", "The Shah has sent this force from Iran today.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.75", "lines": ["Tus laughed among the chiefs when this was heard,", "Then turned to all renowned and spoke his word:"]}, {"id": "B13.21.76", "lines": ["“Now seek no battle; aid has come in sight;", "For haste has its own hour, and waiting right."]}, {"id": "B13.21.77", "lines": ["By Yazdan’s power Rostam Piltan draws near,", "To bring us aid and strip away our fear."]}, {"id": "B13.21.78", "lines": ["Then our desire against Turan we shall claim,", "And toward the sun will rise Iran’s bright fame.”"]}, {"id": "B13.21.79", "lines": ["They ceased to plan the night attack and fight;", "Both chief and army now grew glad and bright."]}, {"id": "B13.21.80", "lines": ["The watchman’s news made every spirit bold;", "Through all the ranks it passed from young to old."]}, {"id": "B13.21.81", "lines": ["Tus sent out scouts to watch the field of war;", "The mountain’s zang resounded with a roar."]}, {"id": "B13.21.82", "lines": ["The army sat bright-souled through all the night,", "And spoke of Pahlevans’ chief till morning light."]}, {"id": "B13.22.1", "lines": ["When sunlight ranged its ranks on heaven’s height,", "And blackness vanished with the routed night,"]}, {"id": "B13.22.2", "lines": ["The Khan of Chin called Turan’s chieftains near,", "And spoke to wise Piran for all to hear:"]}, {"id": "B13.22.3", "lines": ["“We will not fight today; let warriors rest;", "A day of ease will serve our army best."]}, {"id": "B13.22.4", "lines": ["Let proud chiefs and man-slaying riders stay,", "And cast their road-worn weariness away."]}, {"id": "B13.22.5", "lines": ["Through hill and dale they hastened on their course;", "Long roads have worn the rider and the horse."]}, {"id": "B13.22.6", "lines": ["Meanwhile I will view Iran upon the field,", "And learn what strength their gathered ranks may yield.”"]}, {"id": "B13.22.7", "lines": ["Piran replied: “The Khan is wise and great,", "A worthy king whose counsel guards our state."]}, {"id": "B13.22.8", "lines": ["Whatever course today the Khan approves,", "We follow where his sovereign counsel moves.”"]}, {"id": "B13.22.9", "lines": ["The koust and karnay raised a mighty sound,", "And tumult rolled throughout the guarded ground."]}, {"id": "B13.22.10", "lines": ["Five mighty elephants came on, whose freight", "Was seats of turquoise diba, rich and great."]}, {"id": "B13.22.11", "lines": ["With emeralds the royal seats were bright,", "And woven gold flashed richly in the light."]}, {"id": "B13.22.12", "lines": ["The saddle-flaps were made of leopard hide;", "Gold-silver zang rang brightly at their side."]}, {"id": "B13.22.13", "lines": ["The drivers’ heads were crowned in royal style;", "Their torques and earrings flashed across the file."]}, {"id": "B13.22.14", "lines": ["Parniyan standards crowded, spar on spar,", "Red, yellow, violet, as in Chin’s bazaar."]}, {"id": "B13.22.15", "lines": ["The army took the field as though a feast", "Awaited every warrior, great and least."]}, {"id": "B13.22.16", "lines": ["The earth shone varied as a rooster’s eye,", "With elephants and koust beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.22.17", "lines": ["The kings set forth; the karnay’s piercing cry", "Rose from the ranks and echoed, wild and high."]}, {"id": "B13.22.18", "lines": ["Bright spearheads flashed throughout the gathering might,", "And massed battalions turned the country night."]}, {"id": "B13.22.19", "lines": ["Tus saw from far and set his ranks for fray;", "Iran’s hard warriors readied for the day."]}, {"id": "B13.22.20", "lines": ["Then Giv brought forth the Kaviani sign;", "Iran’s brave warriors girded up the line."]}, {"id": "B13.22.21", "lines": ["From battlefield to mountain summit high,", "Iran stood troop on troop against the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.22.22", "lines": ["Kamus went forward, Manshur at his side,", "Biward, wise Shangul, and the Khan in pride."]}, {"id": "B13.22.23", "lines": ["They came to view Mount Hamavan that day,", "Not seeking battle or to force their way."]}, {"id": "B13.22.24", "lines": ["The Khan looked out and listened, and could hear", "Iranian horsemen raise their battle-cheer."]}, {"id": "B13.22.25", "lines": ["It pleased him: “See the riders they display;", "The marks of courage shine in their array."]}, {"id": "B13.22.26", "lines": ["Piran described these warriors otherwise;", "A fighter’s worth should not be hid from eyes."]}, {"id": "B13.22.27", "lines": ["Who hides a pit beneath the thorny ground", "May drive his own horse in and tumble down."]}, {"id": "B13.22.28", "lines": ["What profit lies in burying their fame", "Beneath the dust before we test the same?"]}, {"id": "B13.22.29", "lines": ["No chiefs or warriors have met my sight", "So marked by manly courage in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "B13.22.30", "lines": ["Piran replied: “So few are hardly worth", "Our heed; they count for nothing on this earth.”"]}, {"id": "B13.22.31", "lines": ["The Khan replied: “What shall we do today,", "Now that we stand upon the field’s array?”"]}, {"id": "B13.22.32", "lines": ["Piran replied: “You crossed a weary plain,", "Through hill and dale and many roads of strain."]}, {"id": "B13.22.33", "lines": ["Stay here three days and let the army rest;", "Then I will split our force in halves as best."]}, {"id": "B13.22.34", "lines": ["When rest is done and battle’s hour draws near,", "Then comes the day of warfare, toil, and fear."]}, {"id": "B13.22.35", "lines": ["Half our glorious warriors shall wield", "Their arms from dawn till noon across the field."]}, {"id": "B13.22.36", "lines": ["With zhupin, sword, with bow and gorz prepared,", "They strike until the midday field is bared."]}, {"id": "B13.22.37", "lines": ["At noon the other half, when that watch ends,", "Shall fight until night on the hills descends."]}, {"id": "B13.22.38", "lines": ["At dark I will bring troops whose strength is new,", "And press the foe until the night is through."]}, {"id": "B13.22.39", "lines": ["We will not grant them one calm breath of peace,", "But harry them with riders without cease.”"]}, {"id": "B13.22.40", "lines": ["Kamus replied: “This counsel is not right;", "I will have none of waiting for the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.22.41", "lines": ["With such an army, such a war today,", "Why should we linger here through long delay?"]}, {"id": "B13.22.42", "lines": ["Let all our army strike with gathered might,", "And hem them through the valley and the height."]}, {"id": "B13.22.43", "lines": ["From here we march upon Iran’s royal seat;", "Its Shah and throne and crown shall know defeat."]}, {"id": "B13.22.44", "lines": ["We shall ravage all their country end to end,", "And wage a lion’s war they cannot fend."]}, {"id": "B13.22.45", "lines": ["No woman, child, no old or young survive,", "No Shah, kanarang, Pahlevan alive."]}, {"id": "B13.22.46", "lines": ["No land, no palace, no eyvan shall stand;", "No four-foot beast survive across the land."]}, {"id": "B13.22.47", "lines": ["Why should we bear so many evil days,", "And reap but needless grief from such delays?"]}, {"id": "B13.22.48", "lines": ["But keep each road and pass closed one full night,", "Lest foes escape and vanish out of sight."]}, {"id": "B13.22.49", "lines": ["When dawn-wind rises, all our army’s might", "Shall move at once and gather for the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.22.50", "lines": ["Then Shangul, Hind’s great king, shall come with me;", "We will bear our standard toward the height we see."]}, {"id": "B13.22.51", "lines": ["Tomorrow Iran’s warriors shall be found", "Heaped on the mountain in a single mound."]}, {"id": "B13.22.52", "lines": ["Then through Iran no sight shall meet their eyes", "But mourning faces and lamenting cries.”"]}, {"id": "B13.22.53", "lines": ["The Khan said: “No plan better can be made;", "None like Kamus can marshal an armed brigade.”"]}, {"id": "B13.22.54", "lines": ["The famous chiefs agreed with his design,", "And followed Kamus, lion of the line."]}, {"id": "B13.22.55", "lines": ["They rose and parted when the counsel closed,", "And all night long their battle ranks composed."]}, {"id": "B13.23.1", "lines": ["When sun pitched yellow diba as its tent,", "Beneath the lapis dome its splendor went."]}, {"id": "B13.23.2", "lines": ["The lookout cried: “O Pahlevan, take heed!", "An army comes on in a swift stampede."]}, {"id": "B13.23.3", "lines": ["They are at hand; their dust has dimmed the day,", "And blackened all the sunlight on their way.”"]}, {"id": "B13.23.4", "lines": ["Gudarz sprang up; they brought his swiftest bay;", "He mounted in a breath and rode away."]}, {"id": "B13.23.5", "lines": ["He rode toward that dark dust with wounded heart,", "And searched the road by which the troops would start."]}, {"id": "B13.23.6", "lines": ["He reached the van; amid the marching train,", "He saw Fariborz’s standard on the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.23.7", "lines": ["Fariborz, chosen leader of the band,", "The new Shah’s kinsman, rode at their command."]}, {"id": "B13.23.8", "lines": ["Old Gudarz then dismounted from his steed;", "Wise Fariborz dismounted with all speed."]}, {"id": "B13.23.9", "lines": ["The two embraced; Gudarz, with grief oppressed,", "Wept tears of blood upon the prince’s breast."]}, {"id": "B13.23.10", "lines": ["Fariborz said, “Old chief, still forced to wage", "Revenge for Siavash from age to age,"]}, {"id": "B13.23.11", "lines": ["How dearly Siavash’s vengeance spent your line!", "Alas, Gudarzian horsemen, once so fine."]}, {"id": "B13.23.12", "lines": ["May glad news of them still return to you;", "May fortune turn, and make your foemen rue."]}, {"id": "B13.23.13", "lines": ["Praise be to Him who rules the sun and moon,", "That I have found you safe, a gracious boon.”"]}, {"id": "B13.23.14", "lines": ["Gudarz wept blood for those beneath the clay,", "For sons and grandsons fallen in the fray."]}, {"id": "B13.23.15", "lines": ["He said, “See how ill fortune strikes my head;", "Each day new evil on my path is spread."]}, {"id": "B13.23.16", "lines": ["Few son or grandson now remain to fight;", "No troop, no standard, no tabira in sight."]}, {"id": "B13.23.17", "lines": ["That former battle now is cast away;", "This is the fight, the work we face today."]}, {"id": "B13.23.18", "lines": ["Their troops on plain and dale, in endless string,", "Have made the earth as black as raven’s wing."]}, {"id": "B13.23.19", "lines": ["Beside their force, the men that Tus can rank,", "Are one black hair upon a white bull’s flank."]}, {"id": "B13.23.20", "lines": ["From Chin, Saklab, Rum, and Hind they came,", "From ruined lands and settled fields the same."]}, {"id": "B13.23.21", "lines": ["No living soul seems left behind at home;", "All gird themselves against us where they roam."]}, {"id": "B13.23.22", "lines": ["But tell me where is Rostam, Iran’s stay?", "Till then my back stays bent beneath dismay.”"]}, {"id": "B13.23.23", "lines": ["“He is behind me,” Fariborz replied,", "“Intent on war, and marching at full stride."]}, {"id": "B13.23.24", "lines": ["Through dark of night till dawn he drives the way,", "And never seeks a pause or brief delay."]}, {"id": "B13.23.25", "lines": ["Where shall I rest, and where shall I now flee,", "With this small, meager force that follows me?”"]}, {"id": "B13.23.26", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “What words did Rostam say?", "Conceal no part of what he bade today.”"]}, {"id": "B13.23.27", "lines": ["The prince replied, “He bade us shun the fray;", "No warrior should now venture forth to slay."]}, {"id": "B13.23.28", "lines": ["‘Hold where you are and do not march ahead;", "Do not advance before the army’s tread."]}, {"id": "B13.23.29", "lines": ["Rest where you stand until my standard’s light", "Appears afar and rises into sight.’”"]}, {"id": "B13.23.30", "lines": ["Fariborz turned; Gudarz rode by his side,", "Toward Hamavan they swiftly took their ride."]}, {"id": "B13.24.1", "lines": ["The Turanian watchman saw the army near,", "Then hurried down to make the tidings clear."]}, {"id": "B13.24.2", "lines": ["“Prepare for battle,” he told old Piran,", "“For troops have crossed the field from far Iran."]}, {"id": "B13.24.3", "lines": ["An army comes; I cannot name its guide,", "Nor read the banners waving far and wide.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.4", "lines": ["Piran approached Chin’s mighty Khan and sought", "His counsel on the war that must be fought."]}, {"id": "B13.24.5", "lines": ["Kamus said, “Keep command of your own force;", "You have Afrasiab’s warriors and horse,"]}, {"id": "B13.24.6", "lines": ["And troops that roll like waves across the plain,", "Yet five months’ war has brought no lasting gain."]}, {"id": "B13.24.7", "lines": ["Against so small a foe what have you done?", "Now earth is full of troops beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B13.24.8", "lines": ["The Khan, Manshur, and I are here to fight;", "Now let our prowess prove its promised might."]}, {"id": "B13.24.9", "lines": ["Your caution locked the gate; we bring the key,", "And shall unleash the war you feared to see."]}, {"id": "B13.24.10", "lines": ["Though Chin’s silk covered all the world’s broad face,", "With Kabul, Zabul, Hind in every place,"]}, {"id": "B13.24.11", "lines": ["Yet if I fought alone, Iran would be", "A name erased by warriors such as me."]}, {"id": "B13.24.12", "lines": ["None then would say Iranians still remain;", "Their name would vanish from the battle-plain."]}, {"id": "B13.24.13", "lines": ["You seek to frighten me with Rostam; know", "I first will strike him down and lay him low."]}, {"id": "B13.24.14", "lines": ["If once I catch him in my battle snare,", "Then none will speak of Rostam anywhere."]}, {"id": "B13.24.15", "lines": ["You fear the army coming from Sistan;", "That thought has filled your heart with care, Piran."]}, {"id": "B13.24.16", "lines": ["But watch my hand when dust obscures the plain,", "And battle fills the earth with blood and pain."]}, {"id": "B13.24.17", "lines": ["Then you shall know who merits manhood’s right,", "Who counts as brave and knows the ways of fight.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.18", "lines": ["Piran replied, “Live long in royal grace;", "May evil’s hand be far from your high place."]}, {"id": "B13.24.19", "lines": ["Enough; may all you promise be fulfilled,", "And no man match you where the blood is spilled.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.20", "lines": ["The Khan said, “You have let Kamus attack;", "He speaks a word and never turns it back."]}, {"id": "B13.24.21", "lines": ["The mountains stand as allies at his gate,", "And elephants as comrades share his fate."]}, {"id": "B13.24.22", "lines": ["Do not dismay the troops with anxious cries;", "Iran’s men matter little in my eyes."]}, {"id": "B13.24.23", "lines": ["No noble in Iran shall stay alive;", "Through hill and vale my storming dust shall drive."]}, {"id": "B13.24.24", "lines": ["Those men of rank and standing I shall bind,", "And send to Afrasiab, chained behind."]}, {"id": "B13.24.25", "lines": ["The others who survive our conquering tread", "Shall fall beneath the sword and lose the head."]}, {"id": "B13.24.26", "lines": ["No leaf upon a tree shall there remain;", "No tree shall stand throughout Iran’s domain."]}, {"id": "B13.24.27", "lines": ["No royal seat, no Shah shall there be known,", "No crown shall stand, no sovereign keep a throne.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.28", "lines": ["Piran bowed smiling to each chief and peer,", "And paid the Khan due homage, drawing near."]}, {"id": "B13.24.29", "lines": ["Then he returned rejoicing to the ground,", "Where gathered nobles pressed him all around."]}, {"id": "B13.24.30", "lines": ["Houman, Lahhak, and brave Farshidvard came,", "Great lions when the battlefield took flame."]}, {"id": "B13.24.31", "lines": ["“A force has now come from Iran,” they said,", "“Led by a sable banner at its head."]}, {"id": "B13.24.32", "lines": ["A noted scout went out and now returns;", "From what he brings, the camp with rumor burns."]}, {"id": "B13.24.33", "lines": ["They say it is Fariborz, Kavus’s son,", "A loyal warrior, noble, proven one.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.34", "lines": ["Piran replied, “Dismiss these cares today;", "If Rostam is not there, fear falls away."]}, {"id": "B13.24.35", "lines": ["We need not dread this prince from Kavus’s line;", "His breath can bring no cure for bane like mine."]}, {"id": "B13.24.36", "lines": ["Though Kamus counts great Rostam not a man", "Of weight in war before his fighting clan,"]}, {"id": "B13.24.37", "lines": ["May Rostam never come upon this field,", "Though fierce Kamus, a nahang, will not yield.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.38", "lines": ["Houman replied: “Take heart, and shed no tear;", "No Rostam’s strength, no Sistan troops, appear."]}, {"id": "B13.24.39", "lines": ["This blood and dust are Fariborz’s own sign;", "No trace of Rostam comes along the line.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.40", "lines": ["Then Piran said: “I scorn both throne and state,", "And curse the sun and moon that shine so late."]}, {"id": "B13.24.41", "lines": ["When I had heard their army marched our way,", "To fight beneath Iran’s flag in array,"]}, {"id": "B13.24.42", "lines": ["My mind grew dark; grief filled my heart and head,", "A cold, deep sigh rose from my breast and fled.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.43", "lines": ["Kulbad said, “Why this grief? What need of tears", "For Rostam, Tus, or these Iranian spears?"]}, {"id": "B13.24.44", "lines": ["With troops and gorz and elephants arrayed,", "And scimitars, the wind itself is stayed."]}, {"id": "B13.24.45", "lines": ["Why fear Khosrow, Rostam or Tus today?", "Iran’s whole army is dust that blows away."]}, {"id": "B13.24.46", "lines": ["They fled dispersed and scattered from the plain,", "And straggled to their tents in broken train.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.47", "lines": ["Soon Tus was told: “The land with koust resounds;", "Great Rostam comes toward Hamavan’s bounds."]}, {"id": "B13.24.48", "lines": ["With Fariborz and troops from Iran’s side,", "The elephantine hero comes in stride.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.49", "lines": ["Tus ordered koust; the mountain turned to black,", "Like ebony beneath the dust-cloud’s track."]}, {"id": "B13.24.50", "lines": ["A shout rose high from Hamavan’s steep wall;", "The earth boiled under hoofbeats one and all."]}, {"id": "B13.24.51", "lines": ["Then Tus addressed the troops and spoke at length", "Of Rostam’s deeds, his battle-tested strength."]}, {"id": "B13.24.52", "lines": ["He told how in Mazandaran’s dread night", "Rostam had fought the Divs and won the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.24.53", "lines": ["The soldiers blessed the Pahlevan and prayed:", "“May wakeful heart and bright soul be your aid."]}, {"id": "B13.24.54", "lines": ["This happy news adorns the soul today;", "Its brightness drives our former grief away."]}, {"id": "B13.24.55", "lines": ["When peerless Rostam reaches this high field,", "Their line before that nahang now must yield."]}, {"id": "B13.24.56", "lines": ["Then on this mount we shall be free of shame,", "And cleanse the stain that darkened Iran’s name."]}, {"id": "B13.24.57", "lines": ["The Khan’s proud standard, golden shield, and crown,", "His ivory throne, shall fall and be cast down."]}, {"id": "B13.24.58", "lines": ["Their elephant-keepers’ crowns of gold we gain,", "With golden torques and girdles in our train."]}, {"id": "B13.24.59", "lines": ["Their golden zang and bells shall all be won,", "Unmatched in workmanship beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B13.24.60", "lines": ["That jeweled parasol of peacock plume", "As captured spoil shall leave their ranks in gloom."]}, {"id": "B13.24.61", "lines": ["And more than these shall fall into our hand,", "If we stake life and fight them where they stand.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.62", "lines": ["Tus said, “We stand exposed to fear and blame;", "Our peril here may stain the Iranian name."]}, {"id": "B13.24.63", "lines": ["The mountain’s skirts are filled with hostile bands;", "Our nobles’ heads lie caught in danger’s hands."]}, {"id": "B13.24.64", "lines": ["When Rostam comes, he will not ask what passed,", "But turn reproach upon us hard and fast:"]}, {"id": "B13.24.65", "lines": ["‘You were like birds entangled in a snare;", "Your work bore nothing, raw and ill-prepared."]}, {"id": "B13.24.66", "lines": ["The chief was still the same, the army too;", "Yet where were all the champions pressing through?’"]}, {"id": "B13.24.67", "lines": ["So let us charge like lions on this side;", "Perhaps the foe may yet be turned aside.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.68", "lines": ["The troops replied: “Do not seek such display;", "Do not pursue this rash and reckless way."]}, {"id": "B13.24.69", "lines": ["Let no man leave the mountain for the plain", "Until great Rostam has surveyed the train."]}, {"id": "B13.24.70", "lines": ["Stand firm before Yazdan, whose guiding hand", "Leads every heart toward the good command."]}, {"id": "B13.24.71", "lines": ["By Him who holds the shining sun and moon,", "Tahamtan will arrive among us soon."]}, {"id": "B13.24.72", "lines": ["Do not make dark your star through needless fear;", "Give silver coins and gold to poor men here.”"]}, {"id": "B13.24.73", "lines": ["A joyful shout rose from Hamavan’s crest;", "Glad voices passed through every fighting breast."]}, {"id": "B13.24.74", "lines": ["Then each returned contented to his place,", "And spent the night in rest and hopeful grace."]}, {"id": "B13.25.1", "lines": ["When Sol laid hand on Taurus in the sky,", "The larks began their carol, clear and high."]}, {"id": "B13.25.2", "lines": ["From fierce Kamus’s camp a shout began,", "The man-subduing chief who led the van."]}, {"id": "B13.25.3", "lines": ["He gathered troops and handed jowshans round;", "His heart was war, his boasts a tempest’s sound."]}, {"id": "B13.25.4", "lines": ["He changed his robe for jowshan, crown for helm,", "And breastplate took the tunic’s former realm."]}, {"id": "B13.25.5", "lines": ["He chose from steel-clad warriors, battle-tried,", "In iron panoply from side to side."]}, {"id": "B13.25.6", "lines": ["Their dust rose thick; no warrior saw the way,", "For swords and jowshans had obscured the day."]}, {"id": "B13.25.7", "lines": ["Then from Iran’s lookout there rose a cry:", "“A force has reached our side; their banners fly."]}, {"id": "B13.25.8", "lines": ["The Piltan’s standard rises into sight;", "Behind the troops it towers in the light."]}, {"id": "B13.25.9", "lines": ["Across the field Turanian forces spread;", "Their rising dust grew dark above each head."]}, {"id": "B13.25.10", "lines": ["Their leader rode, a mountain mass of stone;", "Earth shook beneath the pounding hooves alone."]}, {"id": "B13.25.11", "lines": ["His gorz-head matched a buffalo in girth;", "Behind rode troops; ahead, spears veiled the earth."]}, {"id": "B13.25.12", "lines": ["Behold the man, the massive gorz he bears;", "Amazement shone in every warrior’s stare.”"]}, {"id": "B13.25.13", "lines": ["Tus sent the koust-roll roaring to the cloud;", "Its thunder shook the mountain, deep and loud."]}, {"id": "B13.25.14", "lines": ["The lookout’s cry made Tus’s spirit bright;", "His heart much rejoiced to hear the news right."]}, {"id": "B13.25.15", "lines": ["From Gudarz, Keshvad’s son, a rider sped", "To Fariborz and gave the words he said:"]}, {"id": "B13.25.16", "lines": ["“Turan has drawn its battle ranks nearby;", "Its ordered lines stand ready beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.25.17", "lines": ["Our scattered force must not remain apart,", "Lest massed battalions break us at the start."]}, {"id": "B13.25.18", "lines": ["Act as your noble nature bids today;", "A Shah’s own son must never shrink away."]}, {"id": "B13.25.19", "lines": ["The dust of Rostam rises from the plain;", "He nears the field with all his battle-train.”"]}, {"id": "B13.25.20", "lines": ["Then Fariborz with warriors joined the fray,", "With Tus and Giv upon that fateful day."]}, {"id": "B13.25.21", "lines": ["On Hamavan they set all the ranks right,", "And formed their battle order for the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.25.22", "lines": ["They raised the glorious flag; each wing was laid,", "The center, rear, and baggage-train arrayed."]}, {"id": "B13.25.23", "lines": ["The karnay blared; the gathered army pressed,", "Like starry heaven in its splendor dressed."]}, {"id": "B13.25.24", "lines": ["When fierce Kamus advanced to fight that day,", "He found no cause for pause or for delay."]}, {"id": "B13.25.25", "lines": ["His army rolled, a sea from height to height,", "A mountain torrent rushing to the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.25.26", "lines": ["The air grew indigo; earth fled from sight;", "He neared the mount beneath that shroud of night."]}, {"id": "B13.25.27", "lines": ["He turned toward Hamavan with smiling face,", "And gazed upon the warriors in that place."]}, {"id": "B13.25.28", "lines": ["Then mocked them: “Iran’s war brings coward’s fame;", "Come forth and prove what warrior earns the name."]}, {"id": "B13.25.29", "lines": ["A mighty army fills the open plain;", "No paltry force has gathered in this train."]}, {"id": "B13.25.30", "lines": ["Not Houman’s force, nor Piran’s, matches mine;", "What champion could you send to hold the line?”"]}, {"id": "B13.25.31", "lines": ["Then shouting toward Mount Hamavan, he cried:", "“You lion-men who stand on battle’s side,"]}, {"id": "B13.25.32", "lines": ["Behold my breast, my stature, and my hand,", "This sword and gorz that answer my command.”"]}, {"id": "B13.25.33", "lines": ["Then Giv flared up in rage; he swiftly braced", "And drew the sword that hung beside his waist."]}, {"id": "B13.25.34", "lines": ["But when he neared Kamus, that massive frame,", "He thought, “A raging elephant could match the same.”"]}, {"id": "B13.25.35", "lines": ["He strung his bow and called on God Most High,", "The giver of good gifts beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.25.36", "lines": ["He loosed his arrows like a springtime rain,", "And struck at fierce Kamus across the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.25.37", "lines": ["Kamus, who marked Giv’s mastery, bent low,", "And raised his shield to ward each arrow’s blow."]}, {"id": "B13.25.38", "lines": ["Then spear in hand he rushed like wolf to prey,", "And bore upon brave Giv without delay."]}, {"id": "B13.25.39", "lines": ["The air was filled with dust above the plain;", "The earth beneath their horses filled with slain."]}, {"id": "B13.25.40", "lines": ["He reached brave Giv and struck him at the waist,", "His spear driven hard as through the field he raced."]}, {"id": "B13.25.41", "lines": ["Giv reeled within his saddle at the thrust;", "The spear drew free as Kamus wheeled in dust."]}, {"id": "B13.25.42", "lines": ["Kamus drew sword and roared his name aloud,", "Then grimly charged through dust before the crowd."]}, {"id": "B13.25.43", "lines": ["He struck Giv’s spear and sheared the shaft in two,", "As scribes trim reeds for pens and cut them through."]}, {"id": "B13.25.44", "lines": ["Tus watched from center, grieving at the sight,", "As Giv and fierce Kamus maintained the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.25.45", "lines": ["He thought, “Brave Giv cannot withstand this man;", "Against such strength he does the best he can."]}, {"id": "B13.25.46", "lines": ["No spearman but myself can face that chief.”", "He left the center roaring, to Giv’s relief."]}, {"id": "B13.25.47", "lines": ["Kamus wheeled sharply through the battle’s course,", "And with his sword struck Tus’s charging horse."]}, {"id": "B13.25.48", "lines": ["Tus’s face turned ebony; his horse went down,", "But Tus rose roaring, lion of renown."]}, {"id": "B13.25.49", "lines": ["On foot, with spear in hand, Tus fought his foe,", "Before both armies watching from below."]}, {"id": "B13.25.50", "lines": ["Against a single foe, two warriors go,", "Yet Kashan’s chief still hungered for the blow."]}, {"id": "B13.25.51", "lines": ["The tumult held until the sun’s bright ray", "Grew dark and vanished from the field that day."]}, {"id": "B13.25.52", "lines": ["The battlefield turned ebony with night;", "They drew apart and ceased the bitter fight."]}, {"id": "B13.25.53", "lines": ["One army sought the plain as darkness grew,", "The other up the mountain slopes withdrew."]}, {"id": "B13.26.1", "lines": ["When heaven showed no trace of sun or moon,", "The scouts of both camps crept like shadows strewn."]}, {"id": "B13.26.2", "lines": ["The watcher from the lookout cried aloud:", "“The plain is filled with dust beneath the cloud."]}, {"id": "B13.26.3", "lines": ["Both level ground and upland ring with cries;", "Among the troops, many bright watchfires rise."]}, {"id": "B13.26.4", "lines": ["In truth, the elephantine chief has neared,", "With Zabul’s rushing warriors, all appeared.”"]}, {"id": "B13.26.5", "lines": ["Gudarz, on hearing, hurried through the night,", "And climbed down from the rocks with urgent flight."]}, {"id": "B13.26.6", "lines": ["The dragon-standard glowed in fading light,", "While earth beneath lay violet-dark from sight."]}, {"id": "B13.26.7", "lines": ["When Gudarz saw Tahamtan’s face appear,", "His own face vanished underneath his tears."]}, {"id": "B13.26.8", "lines": ["Gudarz dismounted; Rostam at his side", "Leapt from his saddle with a wind-like stride."]}, {"id": "B13.26.9", "lines": ["The two embraced; a bitter cry arose", "For Gudarzian chiefs struck down by foes."]}, {"id": "B13.26.10", "lines": ["They wept for gains that ended all in loss,", "For hopes the battle swept away like dross."]}, {"id": "B13.26.11", "lines": ["Gudarz then said, “O Pahlevan, bright soul,", "By you Iran’s own crown and throne stay whole."]}, {"id": "B13.26.12", "lines": ["Each word you speak is faithful, firm, and true;", "Iran finds father, mother, all in you."]}, {"id": "B13.26.13", "lines": ["Beyond all treasure, throne, or gems in view,", "No wealth in Iran can surpass your due."]}, {"id": "B13.26.14", "lines": ["Without you, fish cast helpless on dry land,", "Our heads are stone, our bodies under sand."]}, {"id": "B13.26.15", "lines": ["When I once more beheld your noble face,", "Your warm inquiry made my grief give place."]}, {"id": "B13.26.16", "lines": ["I ceased to mourn for dear ones lost from sight;", "Through your good fortune, smiles replaced my plight.”"]}, {"id": "B13.26.17", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered, “Let your heart be bright;", "Guard well your noble self with all your might."]}, {"id": "B13.26.18", "lines": ["The world is toil and treachery at the core;", "It shows its wealth, then offers nothing more."]}, {"id": "B13.26.19", "lines": ["One man is rich, another poor and low;", "One honored, one despised, yet all must go."]}, {"id": "B13.26.20", "lines": ["There is no cure; no grief that I can name", "Is worse than death or deeper in its flame."]}, {"id": "B13.26.21", "lines": ["May that dark sorrow never strike your head;", "May we in battle join the honored dead.”"]}, {"id": "B13.26.22", "lines": ["When Tus and Giv and all those warriors knew", "That Rostam came, the joyful rumor flew."]}, {"id": "B13.26.23", "lines": ["They heard he reached Mount Hamavan at last,", "And old Gudarz had seen him as he passed."]}, {"id": "B13.26.24", "lines": ["They went like wind; the shouts and karnay rose,", "And through the dark they hurried where he goes."]}, {"id": "B13.26.25", "lines": ["Tahamtan’s standard rose within the night;", "The army reached him by its guiding sight."]}, {"id": "B13.26.26", "lines": ["The chiefs and soldiers all dismounted, girt", "With belts, their hearts relieved of care and hurt."]}, {"id": "B13.26.27", "lines": ["They cried in anguish for the warriors slain", "Amid the dust and fury of the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.26.28", "lines": ["Rostam was moved; he bound his war-belt tight,", "And set his heart on vengeance and the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.26.29", "lines": ["He heard what griefs had touched that hard campaign,", "And mourned the troops that suffered toil and pain."]}, {"id": "B13.26.30", "lines": ["He counseled them: “O chiefs, today we face", "A grave and heavy battle in this place."]}, {"id": "B13.26.31", "lines": ["Such is war’s end: for one a feast is spread;", "For one, a funeral among the dead.”"]}, {"id": "B13.26.32", "lines": ["That warrior, that luster of the land,", "Set up his camp-enclosure where he planned."]}, {"id": "B13.26.33", "lines": ["Nimruz’s forces camped behind their lord;", "Upon the height his lofty standard soared."]}, {"id": "B13.26.34", "lines": ["Great Rostam sat upon a royal seat,", "The chiefs assembled round him at his feet."]}, {"id": "B13.26.35", "lines": ["Gudarz and Giv sat near him, Tus in sight,", "Before the lord of war one lamp burned bright."]}, {"id": "B13.26.36", "lines": ["He spoke at length of what they saw befall,", "Of how the chiefs and troops had faced it all,"]}, {"id": "B13.26.37", "lines": ["And whether sun and moon would aid them still,", "Or fortune turn against the warriors’ will."]}, {"id": "B13.26.38", "lines": ["The chiefs described the number of their foes,", "And how that throng across the valley rose."]}, {"id": "B13.26.39", "lines": ["They spoke of fierce Kamus and Chin’s high lord,", "Manshur, Shangul, and all their warrior horde."]}, {"id": "B13.26.40", "lines": ["“Of great Kamus himself much may be said;", "We saw him clearly where the battle spread."]}, {"id": "B13.26.41", "lines": ["He is a tree whose fruit is gorz and blade;", "Though clouds rain stones, he does not stand afraid."]}, {"id": "B13.26.42", "lines": ["He would not flee from elephants of war;", "His heart seeks strife, his head seeks vengeance more."]}, {"id": "B13.26.43", "lines": ["Earth scarcely holds Manshur beneath its sky;", "No chief commands such armies low or high."]}, {"id": "B13.26.44", "lines": ["From Hamavan as far as Shahd’s broad strand", "Stretch standards, elephants, mahd, and fighting band."]}, {"id": "B13.26.45", "lines": ["No count can tell the helms and jowshan bright;", "Grim faces fill the plain from left to right."]}, {"id": "B13.26.46", "lines": ["The plain is filled with tents from end to end;", "Chinese diba encloses every bend."]}, {"id": "B13.26.47", "lines": ["Had you not come with all your valiant band,", "All would have fallen, ruined in this land."]}, {"id": "B13.26.48", "lines": ["Praise to Yazdan of victory, whose name", "Has ended grief and turned aside our shame."]}, {"id": "B13.26.49", "lines": ["Beyond all doubt, through you we live again;", "Before you came, no respite reached our men.”"]}, {"id": "B13.26.50", "lines": ["Rostam awhile grieved for the warriors slain,", "And wept, his darkened heart consumed by pain."]}, {"id": "B13.26.51", "lines": ["He said, “Look down from where the moon rides high,", "Upon the somber earth beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.26.52", "lines": ["All here is anguish, labor, grief, and care;", "Such is the stop that we as pilgrims share."]}, {"id": "B13.26.53", "lines": ["Such is the custom of the circling sphere:", "Now strife and poison, now sweet love and cheer."]}, {"id": "B13.26.54", "lines": ["By nature or by violence we die;", "No profit lies in asking how or why."]}, {"id": "B13.26.55", "lines": ["When time is done, all men must leave this ground;", "Blame not the turning heavens wheeling round."]}, {"id": "B13.26.56", "lines": ["May God, who conquers all, now give us aid,", "And cast our foemen’s fortune into shade."]}, {"id": "B13.26.57", "lines": ["From this day on, our vengeance we shall take,", "And clear the world of foemen in our wake.”"]}, {"id": "B13.26.58", "lines": ["The mighty chiefs praised him: “Live famed and bright,", "With seal and crown and sword in royal might."]}, {"id": "B13.26.59", "lines": ["May Kay Khosrow’s great court through all your days", "Never be robbed of you, its strength and praise.”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.1", "lines": ["When over the hills the world-illumer shone,", "And dawn seized night’s dark tresses as its own,"]}, {"id": "B13.27.2", "lines": ["It cast away the pitch-black robes of dread,", "And bit the moon’s pale lips until they bled,"]}, {"id": "B13.27.3", "lines": ["From every camp the tabira thundered round,", "And warriors issued at the battle-sound."]}, {"id": "B13.27.4", "lines": ["Houman the chief went forth to scan each side,", "And thought what aid the Iranians might hide."]}, {"id": "B13.27.5", "lines": ["“What force has come with tents across the plain,", "Pavilions, camp-walls, standards in its train?”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.6", "lines": ["He saw a turquoise tent of diba made,", "With many attendants round its brocade shade."]}, {"id": "B13.27.7", "lines": ["Before it stood a chief’s bright flag and spear;", "He thought that Fortune now had shifted here."]}, {"id": "B13.27.8", "lines": ["He saw another army’s camp nearby,", "Its moon-bright standards gleaming in the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.27.9", "lines": ["There Fariborz, the son of Kavus, stayed", "Near Tus, with elephants and koust arrayed."]}, {"id": "B13.27.10", "lines": ["Houman went troubled to Piran and said,", "“Today will bring us bitter toil and dread."]}, {"id": "B13.27.11", "lines": ["The Iranian clamor through the night was high,", "And louder than before it struck the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.27.12", "lines": ["So I rode out alone at break of day,", "And scanned the foe’s encampments in array."]}, {"id": "B13.27.13", "lines": ["A mighty force from Iran has drawn near,", "To aid their army in the battle here."]}, {"id": "B13.27.14", "lines": ["One green diba pavilion faced the field;", "A dragon-standard rose beside its shield."]}, {"id": "B13.27.15", "lines": ["Around it Zabul shield-men formed in rings,", "With Kabul blades prepared for warlike things."]}, {"id": "B13.27.16", "lines": ["I think that Rostam, by the Shah’s command,", "Has come with fresh support to this dark land.”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.17", "lines": ["Piran replied, “An evil hour is near;", "If Rostam joins this fight, our doom is clear."]}, {"id": "B13.27.18", "lines": ["No Khan, Kamus, nor Shangul will remain,", "Nor Turan’s warriors standing on the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.19", "lines": ["He left the camp and went to view the foe,", "And saw Iran’s arrayed battalions grow."]}, {"id": "B13.27.20", "lines": ["Then back to fierce Kamus in haste he came,", "To Manshur, Fartus, chiefs of warlike name."]}, {"id": "B13.27.21", "lines": ["He said, “At dawn I rode beyond our line,", "And viewed the troops beneath Iran’s bright sign."]}, {"id": "B13.27.22", "lines": ["Great reinforcements have arrived today,", "With many chiefs prepared to join the fray."]}, {"id": "B13.27.23", "lines": ["I think the elephantine Rostam too,", "Whom I described before the chiefs to you,"]}, {"id": "B13.27.24", "lines": ["Has come with vengeance, eager for the war,", "Sent by the Shah to reinforce their corps.”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.25", "lines": ["Kamus said, “Wise one, all your words arise", "From dark forebodings and unhappy surmise."]}, {"id": "B13.27.26", "lines": ["Know this: Kay Khosrow comes to war as chief;", "But do not wound your spirit now with grief."]}, {"id": "B13.27.27", "lines": ["Why speak so much of Rostam? What is he?", "Why speak of Zabulistan endlessly?"]}, {"id": "B13.27.28", "lines": ["If he beholds me with my flag in hand,", "His heart will mourn when we in battle stand."]}, {"id": "B13.27.29", "lines": ["Go now, array the line, lead forth the men,", "And bring the standards to the field again."]}, {"id": "B13.27.30", "lines": ["When I go forth with warriors in my train,", "Let none grow slack or linger on the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.27.31", "lines": ["Now you shall see how warriors wage the fight;", "Blood like a sea shall drown the plain from sight.”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.32", "lines": ["The Pahlevan rejoiced; his fear grew light,", "And ceased to fret at Rostam’s dreaded might."]}, {"id": "B13.27.33", "lines": ["He came away rejoicing, free of fear,", "And bathed his soul in valor’s current clear."]}, {"id": "B13.27.34", "lines": ["He armed the troops in helmets, jowshan bright,", "And kept Kamus’s counsel fixed in sight."]}, {"id": "B13.27.35", "lines": ["Then to the Khan he went and kissed the ground,", "And spoke before the monarch, glory-crowned:"]}, {"id": "B13.27.36", "lines": ["“O Shah, live long; may wisdom ever feed", "Upon your thought and guide each royal deed."]}, {"id": "B13.27.37", "lines": ["You crossed a road of hardship, long and sore;", "You left the feast and purchased toil of war."]}, {"id": "B13.27.38", "lines": ["For Afrasiab’s sake you crossed the sea;", "By ship you came to share this war with me."]}, {"id": "B13.27.39", "lines": ["Our soldiers’ backs stand straight because of you;", "Now let your native valor guide you through."]}, {"id": "B13.27.40", "lines": ["Deck elephants with zang and daray bright;", "Let karnay thunder through the world with might."]}, {"id": "B13.27.41", "lines": ["Today I lead the charge into the war;", "Remain amid the army’s guarded core."]}, {"id": "B13.27.42", "lines": ["Stay with the elephants where koust resound;", "Guard well my rear when battle closes round."]}, {"id": "B13.27.43", "lines": ["Help raise my helmet to the clouds today;", "Kamus commanded me to lead the way.”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.44", "lines": ["Then Kamus raised his gorz and swore aloud,", "His oath rose like the thunder through a cloud:"]}, {"id": "B13.27.45", "lines": ["“With this great gorz alone I enter now;", "Though stones from heaven rain upon my brow.”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.46", "lines": ["The Khan then bade the karnay cry on high;", "The dust seemed born with feet beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.27.47", "lines": ["The tabira shook earth and sky around,", "And war arose beneath their rolling sound."]}, {"id": "B13.27.48", "lines": ["A mahd was fastened on an elephant’s frame;", "Beneath its tread the earth indigo became."]}, {"id": "B13.27.49", "lines": ["The Khan moved centerward; the dust rose high,", "And made a dark cloud of the wheeling sky."]}, {"id": "B13.27.50", "lines": ["The zang and Indian daray rang around;", "Men’s hearts rose to their mouths before the sound."]}, {"id": "B13.27.51", "lines": ["On elephant-backs, turquoise thrones gleamed bright,", "Above the flags, like seas of sapphire light."]}, {"id": "B13.27.52", "lines": ["They stole the light from every watching eye;", "Men scarcely knew their souls beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.27.53", "lines": ["Dust filled heaven’s eye, choked its throat on high;", "Its pitch-smeared face let no bright star pass by."]}, {"id": "B13.27.54", "lines": ["When to the center of the line he came,", "The moon itself went wandering from its frame."]}, {"id": "B13.27.55", "lines": ["The right, led by Kamus, like mountains spread;", "The baggage to the open plain was led."]}, {"id": "B13.27.56", "lines": ["Piran moved toward the left wing of the war;", "Houman and Kulbad followed to the fore."]}, {"id": "B13.27.57", "lines": ["When Rostam saw the Khan’s array advance,", "He formed his center, set in battle stance."]}, {"id": "B13.27.58", "lines": ["He bade Tus sound the koust and form the line,", "A rooster’s eye in colors, bright and fine."]}, {"id": "B13.27.59", "lines": ["He said, “Now we see whom heaven makes great,", "And how the turning sky determines fate."]}, {"id": "B13.27.60", "lines": ["We shall learn whose appointed time is done,", "And whom the heavens raise beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B13.27.61", "lines": ["I did not wait; Rakhsh made three stages one,", "And drove the road while morning had begun."]}, {"id": "B13.27.62", "lines": ["His hooves are battered; long roads wore him sore,", "And toil has drained the strength he held before."]}, {"id": "B13.27.63", "lines": ["I dare not tax him now in single fight,", "Or drive him forth to prove his weary might."]}, {"id": "B13.27.64", "lines": ["Come lend me now your courage and your aid,", "And let your vengeance in this fight be paid.”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.65", "lines": ["Then Tus bade ney and bronze khom sound on high;", "The gavdam joined the army’s battle-cry."]}, {"id": "B13.27.66", "lines": ["Gudarz arrayed the right with battle-skill,", "And sent the baggage up the mountain hill."]}, {"id": "B13.27.67", "lines": ["Fariborz set the left; the standards whirled,", "Until the whole earth seemed a reed-filled world."]}, {"id": "B13.27.68", "lines": ["At center stood brave Tus, proud Nohzar’s son;", "The earth was dust beneath the rising sun."]}, {"id": "B13.27.69", "lines": ["The air was storm; the world was lost from sight;", "No warrior saw himself amid the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.27.70", "lines": ["Then mighty Rostam climbed the mountain’s brow,", "To view Turan’s vast army gathered now."]}, {"id": "B13.27.71", "lines": ["He saw a force so vast beneath the sky", "The Sea of Rum seemed but a lump of wax nearby."]}, {"id": "B13.27.72", "lines": ["From Kashan, Shakn, and Wahr their armies came,", "From Chaghan, Chin, Saklab, and Hind by name."]}, {"id": "B13.27.73", "lines": ["From Gahan, Rum, and Sind to Indus strand,", "With varied jowshan, helms from every land."]}, {"id": "B13.27.74", "lines": ["Strange tongues from every quarter filled the air,", "With foreign standards and exotic fare."]}, {"id": "B13.27.75", "lines": ["Elephants bore ivory thrones arrayed,", "Crowns, armlets, torques, tiaras, all displayed."]}, {"id": "B13.27.76", "lines": ["The world became a Paradise in sight;", "Beside its splendor beauty lost its light."]}, {"id": "B13.27.77", "lines": ["He stood astonished on the mountain’s brow,", "And pondered heaven’s turning purpose now."]}, {"id": "B13.27.78", "lines": ["“When will the sky reward the wars we wage?", "What jest will ancient heaven play this age?”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.79", "lines": ["He climbed back down, his fearless courage stayed,", "Nor passed beyond the chief or line arrayed."]}, {"id": "B13.27.80", "lines": ["He said, “Since first I girded up for war,", "No single place has held me one year more."]}, {"id": "B13.27.81", "lines": ["I have seen great armies gathered far and wide,", "But none so vast as this on any side.”"]}, {"id": "B13.27.82", "lines": ["He bade the koust advance; the lines obeyed,", "And Tus moved down where battle was arrayed."]}, {"id": "B13.27.83", "lines": ["Then Tus, their chief, descended for the fray,", "And marched from mountain heights to fight that day."]}, {"id": "B13.27.84", "lines": ["He came for vengeance, burning for the foe,", "His spear made ready to lay hundreds low."]}, {"id": "B13.27.85", "lines": ["Till noon they marched, a two-farsang-long line;", "Their dust obscured the sun and dimmed its shine."]}, {"id": "B13.27.86", "lines": ["The sun could scarcely tell the night from day;", "The air grew dark with spears in close array."]}, {"id": "B13.27.87", "lines": ["With pikan thick, the heavens lost their light;", "The sun itself stood bewildered at the sight."]}, {"id": "B13.27.88", "lines": ["The din of horses, riders rose so far", "It passed beyond both Saturn and red Mars."]}, {"id": "B13.27.89", "lines": ["The blows of axes rang through crag and sky;", "Even flint rock seemed to take wings and fly."]}, {"id": "B13.27.90", "lines": ["The swords and warriors’ forearms, stained with blood,", "Shone ruby-red amid the battle’s flood."]}, {"id": "B13.27.91", "lines": ["The earth groaned underneath the horses’ tread;", "The coward’s heart fled from his breast in dread."]}, {"id": "B13.27.92", "lines": ["The brave made khaftan, jowshan into shrouds,", "Prepared for death beneath the iron clouds."]}, {"id": "B13.27.93", "lines": ["Then fierce Kamus declared: “If heaven today", "Must be our road, we walk its upward way."]}, {"id": "B13.27.94", "lines": ["Bring sword and gorz and kamand to the fight;", "Hem in Iran and bind them in our might."]}, {"id": "B13.27.95", "lines": ["The warrior’s heart must live within the fray;", "Else under stones his covered head shall stay.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.1", "lines": ["A warrior named Ashkabus came forth,", "His koust-like voice rolled thunder south and north."]}, {"id": "B13.28.2", "lines": ["He challenged all the Iranians to fray,", "Intent to cast a foeman’s head in clay."]}, {"id": "B13.28.3", "lines": ["He cried, “Which famous man will meet me here,", "And let his blood run red beneath my spear?”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.4", "lines": ["Rohham heard and raised then his battle-cry,", "Then stormed like waves whose crests assault the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.28.5", "lines": ["He raised his bow, the horseman’s ambush tried,", "And sent a storm of arrows at his side."]}, {"id": "B13.28.6", "lines": ["He showered shafts upon that famous chief,", "But steel enclosed him, hard beyond belief."]}, {"id": "B13.28.7", "lines": ["His arrows swept like wind across the khaftan;", "Then Rohham raised his gorz against the man."]}, {"id": "B13.28.8", "lines": ["The arms of both grew weary in the fight;", "Rohham’s gorz could not break his helmet’s might."]}, {"id": "B13.28.9", "lines": ["Then Ashkabus raised iron gorz on high;", "Earth turned to iron, ebony the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.28.10", "lines": ["He dealt Rohham’s helmet a crushing stroke;", "Across the field it rang; the iron broke."]}, {"id": "B13.28.11", "lines": ["Defeated, Rohham wheeled away in flight,", "And spurred his horse back toward the mountain height."]}, {"id": "B13.28.12", "lines": ["Tus at the center saw this, hot with wrath,", "And spurred to meet Ashkabus on the path."]}, {"id": "B13.28.13", "lines": ["But Rostam cried in anger and disdain,", "“Rohham is fit for wine, not battle’s strain."]}, {"id": "B13.28.14", "lines": ["He plays with swords when wine has warmed his head,", "Then boasts before the brave of blood he shed."]}, {"id": "B13.28.15", "lines": ["Why has Rohham’s face turned sandarac-red?", "Was Ashkabus the better horseman bred?"]}, {"id": "B13.28.16", "lines": ["Stay at the army’s heart and hold your place;", "On foot I shall confront him face to face.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.17", "lines": ["He set his bow upon his arm for war,", "And girded several arrows, three or four."]}, {"id": "B13.28.18", "lines": ["He cried, “Warrior, do not turn and flee;", "Your adversary has come; now face me.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.19", "lines": ["The Kashanian laughed to see him dare,", "Then checked his steed and fixed him with a stare."]}, {"id": "B13.28.20", "lines": ["Still laughing, he called out, “What is your name?", "Who mourns you when your severed head brings shame?”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.21", "lines": ["The peerless Rostam answered, “Luckless foe,", "Why ask my name? No joy from it will grow."]}, {"id": "B13.28.22", "lines": ["My mother named me death to men like you;", "Fate made me hammer, and your helm my due.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.23", "lines": ["The Kashanian said, “You have no horse;", "You give yourself to slaughter in due course.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.24", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “You senseless man of war,", "Have footmen never felled proud chiefs before?"]}, {"id": "B13.28.25", "lines": ["Have footmen never laid proud heads in stone,", "And cast great mounted warriors overthrown?"]}, {"id": "B13.28.26", "lines": ["Do lions, nahangs, leopards mount a steed,", "When they confront their foes in hour of need?"]}, {"id": "B13.28.27", "lines": ["Now I, though standing here upon my feet,", "Will teach a mounted warrior how to meet."]}, {"id": "B13.28.28", "lines": ["Tus sent me forth on foot for one design:", "To take your horse and make that charger mine."]}, {"id": "B13.28.29", "lines": ["Then you, like me, shall walk across the plain,", "While both great armies laugh to see your rein."]}, {"id": "B13.28.30", "lines": ["One man on foot is worth upon this field", "Three hundred riders armed with sword and shield.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.31", "lines": ["Ashkabus laughed: “What weapons have you brought?", "I see but jest and mockery in your thought.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.32", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “Look well upon my bow;", "These arrows tell you when your time runs low.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.33", "lines": ["He saw Ashkabus glory in his steed,", "Then bent his bow to answer pride with deed."]}, {"id": "B13.28.34", "lines": ["He shot an arrow at the charger’s breast;", "The horse fell headlong, stripped of pride and rest."]}, {"id": "B13.28.35", "lines": ["Rostam laughed and cried, “Sit by your friend;", "Nurse his head awhile and let your combat end."]}, {"id": "B13.28.36", "lines": ["Rest from the fight beside your noble steed;", "Attend your fallen comrade in his need.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.37", "lines": ["Then Ashkabus, his quivering body strained,", "His face like sandarac, his bow he gained."]}, {"id": "B13.28.38", "lines": ["He strung his bow and loosed a furious rain;", "But Rostam cried, “Your arrows fall in vain."]}, {"id": "B13.28.39", "lines": ["You waste your spirit, arms, and body too;", "This useless toil brings no reward to you.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.40", "lines": ["He reached toward his belt and chose with care", "A poplar shaft, straight-flying through the air."]}, {"id": "B13.28.41", "lines": ["Four eagle feathers balanced it for flight;", "Its polished arrowhead flashed clear and bright."]}, {"id": "B13.28.42", "lines": ["He took the bow of Chakh within his hand,", "And set his thumbstall to the deer-hide strand."]}, {"id": "B13.28.43", "lines": ["His left arm straight, his right drew back with might;", "The bow of Chakh cried out, its string drawn tight."]}, {"id": "B13.28.44", "lines": ["The nock drew backward till it reached his ear;", "The deer-hide string rang sharp and strong and clear."]}, {"id": "B13.28.45", "lines": ["The arrow-point drew close beside his hand;", "The bow bent fully under his command."]}, {"id": "B13.28.46", "lines": ["He loosed; it struck Ashkabus in the breast;", "The sky kissed Rostam’s hand and called him blessed."]}, {"id": "B13.28.47", "lines": ["Qazā cried, “Take!” and Qadar answered, “Give!”", "Falak cried, “Well struck!” and the Moon cried, “Live!”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.48", "lines": ["The Kashanian died upon the plain,", "As though his mother bore her son in vain."]}, {"id": "B13.28.49", "lines": ["Both armies watched the champions where they fought,", "And stared at all the havoc Rostam wrought."]}, {"id": "B13.28.50", "lines": ["The Khan and fierce Kamus surveyed his frame,", "His height, his strength, his fury and his fame."]}, {"id": "B13.28.51", "lines": ["When Rostam had withdrawn across the plain,", "The Khan sent out a rider to the slain."]}, {"id": "B13.28.52", "lines": ["The rider drew the shaft from where it lay,", "Blood-darkened to the feathers all the way."]}, {"id": "B13.28.53", "lines": ["They passed the shaft throughout the gathered band;", "All thought a spear had rested in his hand."]}, {"id": "B13.28.54", "lines": ["The young Khan saw its feathers and its head;", "His youthful heart grew old with sudden dread."]}, {"id": "B13.28.55", "lines": ["He said to wise Piran, “What is his name?", "Who is this man among Iran’s men of fame?"]}, {"id": "B13.28.56", "lines": ["You called them but a remnant, weak and small,", "Unfit to stand with warriors at all."]}, {"id": "B13.28.57", "lines": ["Yet spear-like arrows rest in every hand;", "A mountain’s heart would shrink before that band."]}, {"id": "B13.28.58", "lines": ["You made the matter small in what you said,", "But falsehood filled the tale that you had spread.”"]}, {"id": "B13.28.59", "lines": ["Piran replied, “I know none in that throng", "Of such a rank, such stature, arm so strong."]}, {"id": "B13.28.60", "lines": ["There is no man whose shaft could pierce a tree;", "What purpose fills his heart is dark to me."]}, {"id": "B13.28.61", "lines": ["The men I know with farr and mighty frame", "Are Tus and Giv, both mighty men of fame."]}, {"id": "B13.28.62", "lines": ["When brave Tus met my brother Houman’s spear,", "The whole world turned to ebony with fear."]}, {"id": "B13.28.63", "lines": ["I do not know this man, nor who may stand", "As match for such a warrior in their band."]}, {"id": "B13.28.64", "lines": ["I will search each parda-saray, and see", "What name this warrior bears, who he may be.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.1", "lines": ["Piran came pale, his heart with sorrow bowed,", "And questioned all the chieftains in the crowd."]}, {"id": "B13.29.2", "lines": ["Then Houman said, “The wise will never slight", "An enemy who stands prepared to fight."]}, {"id": "B13.29.3", "lines": ["Iran’s proud nobles now seem strong enough", "To break through iron, resolute and tough."]}, {"id": "B13.29.4", "lines": ["Since fresh support from Iran reached their side,", "Their battle-cries have sounded far and wide.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.5", "lines": ["Piran replied: “Whoever comes allied,", "We need not fear the strength he may provide."]}, {"id": "B13.29.6", "lines": ["If Rostam stays away, I have no fear;", "Let Rohham or Gorgin themselves appear."]}, {"id": "B13.29.7", "lines": ["Save Tus, no chief among them wins renown;", "Gorgin and Fariborz Kamus cannot down."]}, {"id": "B13.29.8", "lines": ["Each soldier of our line, before this fight,", "Will seek his own renown with all his might.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.9", "lines": ["He rushed to fierce Kamus with grief laid bare,", "To tell Manshur and Fartus, and to share:"]}, {"id": "B13.29.10", "lines": ["“Today a mighty battle shook the plain;", "A wolf broke loose no shepherd could restrain."]}, {"id": "B13.29.11", "lines": ["Find now a cure for wounds that bring us pain,", "And learn whose hand has struck our warrior train.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.12", "lines": ["Kamus replied, “Today our honored name", "Was overturned, and glory changed to shame."]}, {"id": "B13.29.13", "lines": ["Ashkabus lies dead upon the ground,", "While Tus and Giv rejoice with cries around."]}, {"id": "B13.29.14", "lines": ["My heart was torn to see this man attack;", "Our troops, in panic and despair, fell back."]}, {"id": "B13.29.15", "lines": ["He is the tallest man on earth in sight;", "No warrior in our camp can match his might."]}, {"id": "B13.29.16", "lines": ["You saw his bow; the shaft lies here to see;", "No savage lion has such strength as he."]}, {"id": "B13.29.17", "lines": ["He surely is that warrior you have named,", "The Sagzi, whose might you have long proclaimed."]}, {"id": "B13.29.18", "lines": ["He came afoot upon the battlefield,", "To aid Iran and make our warriors yield.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.19", "lines": ["Piran replied, “This is not Rostam, I say;", "He is an exalted horseman in the fray.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.20", "lines": ["Kamus, intent and wary, then began:", "“Tell me once more about that lion-man."]}, {"id": "B13.29.21", "lines": ["How does he move when he comes forth to fight?", "What is his bearing when he shows his might?"]}, {"id": "B13.29.22", "lines": ["What signs reveal his strength, his build, his frame?", "What words to chiefs in battle does he proclaim?"]}, {"id": "B13.29.23", "lines": ["What kind of man is he upon the field?", "How could I face the power that he can wield?"]}, {"id": "B13.29.24", "lines": ["If this is he who now has joined the fray,", "I will go out myself to fight today.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.25", "lines": ["Piran replied, “May heaven bar his course,", "And turn away his purpose and his force."]}, {"id": "B13.29.26", "lines": ["You would behold a hero, tall and fair,", "A cypress crowned with farr, and beauty rare."]}, {"id": "B13.29.27", "lines": ["Afrasiab has turned from him in tears", "On many fields, through many bitter years."]}, {"id": "B13.29.28", "lines": ["To Khosrow loyal, battle is his trade;", "His hand is first to bare the fighting blade."]}, {"id": "B13.29.29", "lines": ["For Siavash, the prince he reared and trained,", "He seeks revenge on those whose hands are stained."]}, {"id": "B13.29.30", "lines": ["No warrior can wield the arms he bears;", "The strongest fail beneath the weight he wears."]}, {"id": "B13.29.31", "lines": ["When he girds up, a savage lion’s might", "Seems gathered in his body for the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.29.32", "lines": ["If from his hand the heavy gorz should fall,", "No nahang could lift its weight at all."]}, {"id": "B13.29.33", "lines": ["His bowstring, lion-hide, is drawn up taut;", "Ten sitir weighs each shaft and pikan wrought."]}, {"id": "B13.29.34", "lines": ["Before his arm, hard flint itself turns slack;", "It melts like wax beneath his fierce attack."]}, {"id": "B13.29.35", "lines": ["When he goes forth to fight where foes assail,", "He fastens jowshan for the iron hail."]}, {"id": "B13.29.36", "lines": ["Over all this he wears a leopard-skin,", "Babr-e Bayan, the garb he battles in."]}, {"id": "B13.29.37", "lines": ["Above both khaftan and jowshan is its worth;", "No other armor equals it on earth."]}, {"id": "B13.29.38", "lines": ["No fire can burn it, water leaves it dry;", "When clad in it, he seems to rise and fly."]}, {"id": "B13.29.39", "lines": ["The steed he rides seems Bistoon on the plain,", "A moving mountain when he takes the rein."]}, {"id": "B13.29.40", "lines": ["His hooves strike dust and stone till sparks arise;", "His battle-neighing rings beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B13.29.41", "lines": ["Yet after all these marvels, in your sight", "Perhaps he scarcely counts as man in fight."]}, {"id": "B13.29.42", "lines": ["No wonder every chief esteems your frame;", "Such shoulders, neck, and arms uphold your fame.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.43", "lines": ["The watchful Lord Kamus gave ear and eye,", "And listened close to all Piran’s reply."]}, {"id": "B13.29.44", "lines": ["Piran’s words pleased him; all his ardor blazed,", "His heart took fire beneath the words of praise."]}, {"id": "B13.29.45", "lines": ["He said, “O Pahlevan, be shrewd of heart;", "Let brightness of the mind guide every part."]}, {"id": "B13.29.46", "lines": ["Name any oath that noble kings may swear,", "Whose wakeful fortunes guard them from despair."]}, {"id": "B13.29.47", "lines": ["I swear a greater oath to you today,", "And turn your wounded heart from grief away."]}, {"id": "B13.29.48", "lines": ["By Yazdan, whose command upholds the sun,", "My bay shall bear its saddle till this task is done;"]}, {"id": "B13.29.49", "lines": ["Till I have made your grieving spirit bright,", "And narrowed all their world to needle’s sight.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.50", "lines": ["Piran called blessings down on him and said,", "“O shrewd king, truth and wisdom crown your head."]}, {"id": "B13.29.51", "lines": ["In all our affairs we follow what you will;", "Of all this war, but little battle waits us still.”"]}, {"id": "B13.29.52", "lines": ["Piran went through the army, tent by tent,", "Through every camp-enclosure as he went."]}, {"id": "B13.29.53", "lines": ["He told the Khan and chiefs on his return", "Of all that passed and all he came to learn."]}, {"id": "B13.30.1", "lines": ["When setting sun had cast a ruby glow,", "And dark night crossed the sky with silent flow,"]}, {"id": "B13.30.2", "lines": ["Turan’s armed men assembled in array,", "Wise in their counsel, proven in the fray."]}, {"id": "B13.30.3", "lines": ["They reached the Khan’s pavilion in the night,", "Their hearts set hard on blood, revenge, and fight."]}, {"id": "B13.30.4", "lines": ["Kamus, the lion-heart who felled men, came,", "With warlike Manshur, high in battle’s fame;"]}, {"id": "B13.30.5", "lines": ["Shamiran of Shakn, Shangul of Hind,", "Kundur of Saklab, and the king of Sind."]}, {"id": "B13.30.6", "lines": ["They took long counsel over war that night,", "And spoke of Iran, vengeance, blood, and fight."]}, {"id": "B13.30.7", "lines": ["At last they settled what the fight demands:", "The time had come for blood to wash their hands."]}, {"id": "B13.30.8", "lines": ["Then to their tents they went to take their ease,", "And slept, each free to rest as he might please."]}, {"id": "B13.30.9", "lines": ["When moon’s thin back bent in the midnight air,", "Against the darkness of night’s pitch-black hair,"]}, {"id": "B13.30.10", "lines": ["And in the sun’s great presence took her place,", "She rose with watery cheeks and washed her face."]}, {"id": "B13.30.11", "lines": ["The soldiers of both armies raised a cry;", "Their tumult mounted to the lofty sky."]}, {"id": "B13.30.12", "lines": ["The Khan of Chin exclaimed: “No more delay;", "We must not linger as we did yesterday."]}, {"id": "B13.30.13", "lines": ["Think of Piran as absent from the fray;", "Must we depend on him to fight today?"]}, {"id": "B13.30.14", "lines": ["We all have come to join this clash of might;", "We marched a long way here to aid the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.30.15", "lines": ["If we delay as yesterday, the shame", "Will bury all the honor of our name."]}, {"id": "B13.30.16", "lines": ["Next day, Afrasiab will praise our deeds,", "And rest and sleep will come as toil recedes."]}, {"id": "B13.30.17", "lines": ["Attack in force; advance like mountains then", "Against Iran and all its fighting men."]}, {"id": "B13.30.18", "lines": ["The nobles of ten provinces are here;", "We must not sleep or feast; our task is clear.”"]}, {"id": "B13.30.19", "lines": ["The mighty rose from every side to speak,", "And stood before the Khan, his will to seek."]}, {"id": "B13.30.20", "lines": ["“Today the army answers to your hand;", "Both Chin and Turan stand at your command."]}, {"id": "B13.30.21", "lines": ["Now mark how scimitars from clouds shall rain,", "And darkened heavens pour steel on the plain.”"]}, {"id": "B13.30.22", "lines": ["Then Rostam to Iran’s warriors declared:", "“The time has come; for battle be prepared."]}, {"id": "B13.30.23", "lines": ["If some were slain, count well the loss we bore:", "One in two or three hundred, and no more."]}, {"id": "B13.30.24", "lines": ["Do not let grief constrict your hearts with pain;", "I will not live if honor bears a stain."]}, {"id": "B13.30.25", "lines": ["With faces ebony-dark, Turan withdrew,", "When Ashkabus was slain before their view."]}, {"id": "B13.30.26", "lines": ["Now fill your hearts with vengeance, warriors all;", "And knit your brows to answer battle’s call."]}, {"id": "B13.30.27", "lines": ["Today I shoe brave Rakhsh and ride to fight;", "With blood my sword-tip will shine ruby-bright."]}, {"id": "B13.30.28", "lines": ["Make ready; here a new day has its birth,", "And Kay Khosrow’s treasury is all the earth."]}, {"id": "B13.30.29", "lines": ["Arm for the strife; win crowns and earrings fair,", "The spoils of this day’s battle as your share."]}, {"id": "B13.30.30", "lines": ["From me take purses, gifts from Zabul’s store,", "And Kabul’s gifts shall swell your bounty more.”"]}, {"id": "B13.30.31", "lines": ["The mighty blessed him: “Through you may the crown", "And signet gain in splendor and renown.”"]}, {"id": "B13.30.32", "lines": ["He donned his armor and, with haughty stride,", "Went forth to meet the battle’s rising tide."]}, {"id": "B13.30.33", "lines": ["Beneath, a jowshan on his body lay,", "While Babr-e Bayan clothed the whole array."]}, {"id": "B13.30.34", "lines": ["He set his precious helm upon his head;", "His foes remembered death with rising dread."]}, {"id": "B13.30.35", "lines": ["By God’s command, he girded for the fight,", "On Rakhsh he sat with raging tusker’s might."]}, {"id": "B13.30.36", "lines": ["The heavens marveled at his towering height;", "Earth darkened under Rakhsh’s hooves at the sight."]}, {"id": "B13.31.1", "lines": ["Tabiras, karnays rose from either line;", "No room remained for spells or dark design."]}, {"id": "B13.31.2", "lines": ["The mountains shook; the plains were split with sound,", "And trampling horses troubled all the ground."]}, {"id": "B13.31.3", "lines": ["Kamus held Turan’s right; behind him lay", "The elephants and baggage in array."]}, {"id": "B13.31.4", "lines": ["The lord of Hind stood mailed upon the left,", "A Roman sword in hand, for slaughter deft."]}, {"id": "B13.31.5", "lines": ["The Khan of Chin stood center; sky was furled,", "And hoofbeats shook the darkened, trembling world."]}, {"id": "B13.31.6", "lines": ["Fariborz, like the sun in Aries’ light,", "Commanded Iran’s left wing in the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.31.7", "lines": ["Brave Gudarz, Keshvad’s son, in steel arrayed,", "Held Iran’s right, with steel on shoulders laid."]}, {"id": "B13.31.8", "lines": ["At center Tus, son of Nohzar, was found,", "With koust and karnay ranged before him round."]}, {"id": "B13.31.9", "lines": ["From water rose the smoke of fire; it seemed", "A battle such as warriors never dreamed."]}, {"id": "B13.31.10", "lines": ["From every quarter rose the soldiers’ cry,", "That tore the ears of elephants nearby."]}, {"id": "B13.31.11", "lines": ["The first who rode between the ranks bore red", "Foam on his lips, with blood his liver shed."]}, {"id": "B13.31.12", "lines": ["It was Kamus, with soldiers at his side,", "With elephants, tabiras, martial pride."]}, {"id": "B13.31.13", "lines": ["He bore an ox-head gorz within his hand,", "And roared, a raging elephant, his demand:"]}, {"id": "B13.31.14", "lines": ["“Where is that footman who would seek the fray,", "And challenge famous warriors here today?"]}, {"id": "B13.31.15", "lines": ["Let him come forth and see my bow in strife,", "And arrows that shall cost him blood and life.”"]}, {"id": "B13.31.16", "lines": ["Brave Tus, Rohham, and Giv beheld the sight,", "Yet none stepped forth against his towering might."]}, {"id": "B13.31.17", "lines": ["The field stood void of Iranian chiefs that day;", "None wished to meet him in the open fray."]}, {"id": "B13.31.18", "lines": ["He seemed a leopard, they a herd of deer;", "No warrior had the strength to venture near."]}, {"id": "B13.31.19", "lines": ["One warrior from Zabul drew his blade;", "Alva, by name, stepped forward, not afraid."]}, {"id": "B13.31.20", "lines": ["Through toil he learned to guide the bridle rein,", "And wield sword, gorz, and spear upon the plain."]}, {"id": "B13.31.21", "lines": ["Through liver-burning toil and hardship’s flame,", "From Rostam all his skill in battle came."]}, {"id": "B13.31.22", "lines": ["He bore the spear and guarded Rostam’s back,", "And let no foe slip past him to attack."]}, {"id": "B13.31.23", "lines": ["What did that eloquent old sage advise?", "Hear what he said, and keep his counsel wise:"]}, {"id": "B13.31.24", "lines": ["“Do not let pride in prowess fill your head.", "Look well beneath your feet at where you tread."]}, {"id": "B13.31.25", "lines": ["To pit a brook against the ocean’s tide", "Is madness born of arrogance and pride.”"]}, {"id": "B13.31.26", "lines": ["Alva advanced, intent upon the fray,", "And sought to meet Kamus in arms that day."]}, {"id": "B13.31.27", "lines": ["An ample space was cleared, and toward his prey", "Kamus came wolf-like, fierce in war’s array."]}, {"id": "B13.31.28", "lines": ["One spear-stroke plucked him lightly from his seat,", "And flung him to the earth at Kamus’s feet."]}, {"id": "B13.31.29", "lines": ["He checked his reins and trampled him, till red", "As rubies turned the ground where Alva bled."]}, {"id": "B13.32.1", "lines": ["The peerless Rostam mourned for Alva slain,", "And loosed his twisted kamand in his pain."]}, {"id": "B13.32.2", "lines": ["Kamand on arm and heavy gorz in hand,", "He roared, a mad elephant, through the land."]}, {"id": "B13.32.3", "lines": ["Kamus said, “Do not boast about that thread,", "Though sixty coils around your arm are spread.”"]}, {"id": "B13.32.4", "lines": ["“The lion roars,” said Rostam, “when his eyes", "Have caught the game that near his pathway lies."]}, {"id": "B13.32.5", "lines": ["You were the first to gird yourself for fight,", "And slew Iran’s own noble man of might."]}, {"id": "B13.32.6", "lines": ["You call my kamand thread; now learn its hold,", "How tight its knotted coils can grip and fold."]}, {"id": "B13.32.7", "lines": ["Your fate now drives you, man of Kashan’s line;", "The dust shall be your bed by fate’s design.”"]}, {"id": "B13.32.8", "lines": ["Kamus the brave spurred on his battle steed,", "And charged at Rostam with a warrior’s speed."]}, {"id": "B13.32.9", "lines": ["He swung his glittering sword with all his might,", "To sever Rostam’s head there in the fight."]}, {"id": "B13.32.10", "lines": ["The sword struck Rakhsh upon the neck and tore", "His bargostvan, the battle-coat he wore."]}, {"id": "B13.32.11", "lines": ["Yet Rakhsh was safe and whole beneath the blow;", "The hero coiled his kamand for the throw."]}, {"id": "B13.32.12", "lines": ["He cast the kamand round the Kashan lord;", "Then spurred the raging Rakhsh and drew the cord."]}, {"id": "B13.32.13", "lines": ["He pinned the rawhide firmly with his thigh;", "Rakhsh seemed an eagle winging through the sky."]}, {"id": "B13.32.14", "lines": ["Kamus, still fearless, gripped his steed with force,", "Pressed hard the stirrups and gave rein to horse."]}, {"id": "B13.32.15", "lines": ["He strained to break the twisted rawhide thong,", "And tear its coils apart, so taut and strong."]}, {"id": "B13.32.16", "lines": ["Kamus grew frantic; still the rawhide held.", "Rostam reined Rakhsh in, his wild rush quelled."]}, {"id": "B13.32.17", "lines": ["He wheeled his mount and pulled the cord around,", "And jerked Kamus headforemost to the ground."]}, {"id": "B13.32.18", "lines": ["He bound Kamus within the kamand’s bands,", "And said, “You pose no danger in these strands."]}, {"id": "B13.32.19", "lines": ["Your charms and spells have lost their former sway;", "Your soul now serves the Div and takes his pay.”"]}, {"id": "B13.32.20", "lines": ["He bound the prisoner’s hands behind his back,", "As firm as stone upon a mountain track."]}, {"id": "B13.32.21", "lines": ["He grasped the coils and bore him to the band,", "On foot, beneath his arm, across the land."]}, {"id": "B13.32.22", "lines": ["He told the warriors, “This lover of the fray", "Presumed to match my strength in war today."]}, {"id": "B13.32.23", "lines": ["This world deceives: its joy and grief abound;", "Now in the clouds we stand, now on the ground."]}, {"id": "B13.32.24", "lines": ["This famous warrior, who on many a field", "Had strength to force a male lion to yield,"]}, {"id": "B13.32.25", "lines": ["Set forth to ravage Iran’s fields and glens,", "And turn our fertile country into lions’ dens."]}, {"id": "B13.32.26", "lines": ["He meant to leave no palace, no rose-bower", "In Kabul or Zabul beneath his power."]}, {"id": "B13.32.27", "lines": ["He would not set his mighty gorz aside", "Till Rostam, son of Zal, himself had died."]}, {"id": "B13.32.28", "lines": ["His helm and jowshan are his shroud instead;", "Dust clothes his body, crowns his fallen head."]}, {"id": "B13.32.29", "lines": ["Now tell me how this captive chief should die,", "Since all his former glory has passed by.”"]}, {"id": "B13.32.30", "lines": ["Then Rostam flung Kamus upon the ground;", "The warriors left their ranks and gathered round."]}, {"id": "B13.32.31", "lines": ["Their swords cut flesh; blood drenched the stones and plain;", "So heaven turns from happiness to pain."]}, {"id": "B13.32.32", "lines": ["All life is toil and anguish, grief and care;", "Your courage cannot change the load you bear."]}, {"id": "B13.32.33", "lines": ["The body bends beneath the guilt it feels;", "The spirit dwells where grief its shadow steals;"]}, {"id": "B13.32.34", "lines": ["Let pride in valor never cloud your mind;", "Time’s hand extends above all humankind."]}, {"id": "B13.32.35", "lines": ["Devote your strength to virtue all your days,", "And offer God, the Guide, your grateful praise."]}, {"id": "B13.32.36", "lines": ["So ended brave Kamus’s mortal strife;", "He came to kill, but forfeited his life."]}, {"id": "B13.32.37", "lines": ["Now hear the war that with Chin’s Khan was fought;", "I bring the champions forth, revenge they sought."]}]}, {"id": "B14", "title": "The Great Battle with the Khan of Chin", "summary": "28 sections · 1,511 couplets", "path": "/poem/b14/", "couplets": [{"id": "B14.1.1", "lines": ["Wise sage, begin now in the Maker’s name,", "Let no name but His own your tongue proclaim."]}, {"id": "B14.1.2", "lines": ["He guides through good and bad; His power sustains", "The circling heavens, where His order reigns."]}, {"id": "B14.1.3", "lines": ["He made the soul and wisdom; give Him praise,", "For none but He is worthy of our lays."]}, {"id": "B14.1.4", "lines": ["Your days pass by; another home will be", "Your place of rest beyond the life you see."]}, {"id": "B14.1.5", "lines": ["But first recount this tale from ancient lore,", "The dehqan’s treasured record from his store."]}, {"id": "B14.1.6", "lines": ["Soon word reached Chin’s Khan: “Kamus is dead;", "His life upon the field of vengeance fled."]}, {"id": "B14.1.7", "lines": ["For chiefs of Balkh and Shakn, that bitter day", "Grew dark; on Kashan, too, the shadow lay.”"]}, {"id": "B14.1.8", "lines": ["All looked at one another there and cried,", "“What warrior wields such might on Iran’s side?"]}, {"id": "B14.1.9", "lines": ["Who is this man? What name does he possess?", "Who in the world can meet him with success?”"]}, {"id": "B14.1.10", "lines": ["Then Houman spoke to Piran, lion-bold:", "“Today I have borne more war than I can hold."]}, {"id": "B14.1.11", "lines": ["How can our warriors still confront the foe,", "When brave Kamus has fallen to the blow?"]}, {"id": "B14.1.12", "lines": ["He was a peerless chief; no other man", "Had such an elephantine build or span."]}, {"id": "B14.1.13", "lines": ["Whoever bound Kamus with twisted cord", "Upon the field, and mastered such a lord,"]}, {"id": "B14.1.14", "lines": ["Could seize an elephant’s head, lift it high,", "And dash it to the ground beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B14.1.15", "lines": ["For you and me, no boast is fitting now;", "Hold not your head so high, but learn to bow.”"]}, {"id": "B14.1.16", "lines": ["The troops, distressed by brave Kamus’s doom,", "Came weeping to the Khan in bitter gloom."]}, {"id": "B14.1.17", "lines": ["Then Piran bowed and praised the Khan on high:", "“O lord above the dome of azure sky,"]}, {"id": "B14.1.18", "lines": ["You have beheld and heard how we have fared", "From first to last, what grief and loss we shared."]}, {"id": "B14.1.19", "lines": ["Devise the cure yourself for our mischance;", "Tell no one; weigh alone our next advance."]}, {"id": "B14.1.20", "lines": ["Choose from our spies a watchman keen of sight,", "Who brings all hidden matters into light."]}, {"id": "B14.1.21", "lines": ["Find who he is, this warrior fierce and grim,", "And who among our ranks can challenge him."]}, {"id": "B14.1.22", "lines": ["Then we will all go forth and face our death,", "And fight him on the field with final breath.”"]}, {"id": "B14.1.23", "lines": ["The Khan replied, “This grief weighs hard on me;", "I too would learn who this grim chief may be."]}, {"id": "B14.1.24", "lines": ["Who is this dreadful warrior, whose hand", "Can bind great lions and bring them to the sand?"]}, {"id": "B14.1.25", "lines": ["Yet death admits no cure beneath the sky;", "Wishes and prayers and vigor fail and die."]}, {"id": "B14.1.26", "lines": ["For death’s appointed end we all are born,", "And bow our necks to fate though hearts are torn."]}, {"id": "B14.1.27", "lines": ["No man escapes the circling sky’s command,", "Though he could crush an elephant by hand."]}, {"id": "B14.1.28", "lines": ["Do not let grief for fallen Kamus rise;", "He died within those coils before your eyes."]}, {"id": "B14.1.29", "lines": ["The man who slew Kamus shall soon be bound;", "My kamand’s coils shall bring him to the ground."]}, {"id": "B14.1.30", "lines": ["I shall make all Iran a river’s bed,", "To please King Afrasiab,” the ruler said."]}, {"id": "B14.1.31", "lines": ["He gathered nobles from the army’s best,", "Brave swordsmen, battle-hardened and war-pressed."]}, {"id": "B14.1.32", "lines": ["He said, “This daring rider in the fray", "Casts his kamand and carries chiefs away."]}, {"id": "B14.1.33", "lines": ["Find where he stands among the ranks in sight,", "Upon the army’s left wing or its right."]}, {"id": "B14.1.34", "lines": ["Ask of his country and his name; then we", "Shall plan the ending of his destiny.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.1", "lines": ["A faithful warrior of proven name,", "Chingish stepped forth to seek a warrior’s fame."]}, {"id": "B14.2.2", "lines": ["A man of valor, eager for the fray,", "He volunteered to meet the foe that day."]}, {"id": "B14.2.3", "lines": ["He said, “Exalted Khan, may all men know", "Their need for all the favor you bestow."]}, {"id": "B14.2.4", "lines": ["Though like a lion he commands the field,", "I shall strike him down and make his valor yield."]}, {"id": "B14.2.5", "lines": ["I shall fight him single-handed in the fray,", "And turn his proud renown to shame that day."]}, {"id": "B14.2.6", "lines": ["I shall avenge Kamus, cut down in death,", "Restore his honor past his final breath.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.7", "lines": ["The Khan applauded him; he then kissed the ground", "Before the Khan, in homage most profound."]}, {"id": "B14.2.8", "lines": ["The Khan said, “Win this vengeance in my name;", "Bring me his severed head and end his fame."]}, {"id": "B14.2.9", "lines": ["I will give gems from all my hoarded store,", "So you shall never labor anymore.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.10", "lines": ["Chingish spurred forth like Azargashasp’s flame,", "Across the field the eager rider came."]}, {"id": "B14.2.11", "lines": ["He neared Iran’s ranks, where the warriors stood,", "Drew from his quiver a shaft of khadang wood."]}, {"id": "B14.2.12", "lines": ["He cried: “This field is mine; I hold command;", "The heads of famous chiefs are in my hand."]}, {"id": "B14.2.13", "lines": ["Let that bold kamand-flinger come in sight,", "Who casts his cord, then shoots his shafts in fight."]}, {"id": "B14.2.14", "lines": ["The man who captured brave Kamus that day", "Shall leave his place in life and fade away.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.15", "lines": ["He roamed and cried: “Where is that lion-man?", "Let him ride out and answer if he can.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.16", "lines": ["Then Rostam stirred, his gorz gripped at his side,", "And mounted Rakhsh; aloud the hero cried:"]}, {"id": "B14.2.17", "lines": ["“I grant the crowns and lay the lions low;", "I have Rakhsh, arrows, kamand, and my bow."]}, {"id": "B14.2.18", "lines": ["For you, as for Kamus, the hour has come", "To rub your eyes in dust and lie there dumb.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.19", "lines": ["Chingish replied, “Declare your name and line;", "What purpose brings you forth to challenge mine?"]}, {"id": "B14.2.20", "lines": ["That I may know whose blood I shed today,", "When dust of battle darkens all the way.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.21", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered, “Wretch, may bloom depart", "From that ill-fated tree of which you are part,"]}, {"id": "B14.2.22", "lines": ["That bears such fruit as you within the bower,", "And counts you with its yield; may it not flower!"]}, {"id": "B14.2.23", "lines": ["My name and spearpoint both foretell your fall;", "Your head must leave your body, once for all.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.24", "lines": ["The insolent came wind-like, strung his bow,", "And set its dark tips bending toward his foe."]}, {"id": "B14.2.25", "lines": ["His bow was like a cloud; the arrows sped", "Toward jowshan and Babr-e Bayan; overhead"]}, {"id": "B14.2.26", "lines": ["Rostam raised his shield, for he could tell", "Those shafts would pierce his jowshan, which served well."]}, {"id": "B14.2.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam cried: “Stand firm, you horseman bold;", "You soon shall have more war than you can hold.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.28", "lines": ["Chingish beheld that elephantine frame,", "Tall as a garden cypress, as he came."]}, {"id": "B14.2.29", "lines": ["He saw the steed, a hill beneath a hill,", "Unwearied; and he lost his fighting will."]}, {"id": "B14.2.30", "lines": ["He thought, “To flee is better than to stay", "And set my own life in destruction’s way.”"]}, {"id": "B14.2.31", "lines": ["He spurred his heavy charger into flight,", "And sought his army, fleeing from the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.2.32", "lines": ["Then Rostam spurred brave Rakhsh, a streak of flame,", "And swiftly after that proud rider came."]}, {"id": "B14.2.33", "lines": ["Then Rostam reached him; voices rent the sky,", "And all the plain rang out with that great cry."]}, {"id": "B14.2.34", "lines": ["Then Rostam seized the tail of Chingish’s steed,", "Both armies watched, astonished at the deed."]}, {"id": "B14.2.35", "lines": ["He held it fast; then Chingish, gripped by fear,", "Flung himself down and left the saddle clear."]}, {"id": "B14.2.36", "lines": ["His helmet fell; for zanhar then he cried;", "Rostam laid him in dust, his plea denied."]}, {"id": "B14.2.37", "lines": ["Then Rostam struck his head off; hope and will", "And all his schemes lay powerless and still."]}, {"id": "B14.2.38", "lines": ["Iran’s renowned men praised the mighty one,", "And blessed the Pahlevan for what he had done."]}, {"id": "B14.2.39", "lines": ["The Khan grew sick with grief at such a sight,", "And raged at turning fortune and its might."]}, {"id": "B14.2.40", "lines": ["Rostam moved on between the ranks in view,", "A shining spear in hand as he passed through."]}, {"id": "B14.3.1", "lines": ["The Khan to Houman spoke: “Our time is tight;", "The earth grows narrow round us in this fight."]}, {"id": "B14.3.2", "lines": ["Go find his name and bring it back to me;", "You are astute; learn who that chief may be.”"]}, {"id": "B14.3.3", "lines": ["Houman replied, “No anvil bears my name;", "Nor have I any tusked elephant’s frame."]}, {"id": "B14.3.4", "lines": ["Kamus had none to match his heart and hand", "In valor, judgment, mastery, command."]}, {"id": "B14.3.5", "lines": ["Do not despise the hand that overcame", "And bound that warrior of towering fame."]}, {"id": "B14.3.6", "lines": ["I go to learn whom God will favor here,", "And whose bright fortune rules this field of fear.”"]}, {"id": "B14.3.7", "lines": ["As swift as wind he entered in his tent,", "And changed his helmet, on his purpose bent."]}, {"id": "B14.3.8", "lines": ["New standard, horse, and jowshan changed his guise;", "A different shield completed the disguise."]}, {"id": "B14.3.9", "lines": ["He neared and scanned that hero’s neck and frame,", "Then spoke with reverence and careful aim:"]}, {"id": "B14.3.10", "lines": ["“Renowned one, master of the kamand’s might,", "By God, I would yield both crown and throne outright,"]}, {"id": "B14.3.11", "lines": ["If I have seen your equal in the fray;", "No chief in this great army fights your way."]}, {"id": "B14.3.12", "lines": ["A warrior who seeks so fierce a fight", "Makes dust rise from a lion’s heart in fright."]}, {"id": "B14.3.13", "lines": ["With such a lion’s courage, why restrain", "Yourself? You hold this battle in disdain."]}, {"id": "B14.3.14", "lines": ["Among Iran’s warriors I have seen", "No man but you so dauntless in his mien."]}, {"id": "B14.3.15", "lines": ["Tell me your lineage, your native land,", "Your parentage and name at my demand."]}, {"id": "B14.3.16", "lines": ["I cherish warriors when their spirits rise,", "With leopard fierceness blazing in their eyes."]}, {"id": "B14.3.17", "lines": ["So tell me now your name, your land, your line,", "And ease the trouble of this heart of mine.”"]}, {"id": "B14.3.18", "lines": ["The Pahlevan replied, “Your words reveal", "A friendly heart beneath this courteous appeal."]}, {"id": "B14.3.19", "lines": ["Why not reveal your name, your native place,", "Your country, home, and people of your race?"]}, {"id": "B14.3.20", "lines": ["Why have you come with courtesy and art,", "With honeyed talk and questions from the heart?"]}, {"id": "B14.3.21", "lines": ["If you seek peace and wish to end this flame,", "Then find the hand from which our vengeance came."]}, {"id": "B14.3.22", "lines": ["Find him whose hand shed Siavash’s noble blood,", "And plunged our world in fire and crimson flood."]}, {"id": "B14.3.23", "lines": ["Find those in Turan’s ranks who bear the stain", "Of guiltless blood, the innocent they have slain."]}, {"id": "B14.3.24", "lines": ["His men, equipped horses, and treasure store;", "All that from Iran Siavash with him bore;"]}, {"id": "B14.3.25", "lines": ["Send all of these to us, and then no more", "Shall I seek battle as I did before."]}, {"id": "B14.3.26", "lines": ["Then all of you shall be my friends, agreed,", "Aligned with me in custom, path, and deed."]}, {"id": "B14.3.27", "lines": ["I will not speed revenge or kindle strife,", "Nor cast the nobles’ heads from light and life."]}, {"id": "B14.3.28", "lines": ["I will tell Kay Khosrow; he will cleanse his heart", "And mind of wrath, till vengeance shall depart."]}, {"id": "B14.3.29", "lines": ["I shall send the culprits; he may pity them,", "And pardon every guilty root and stem."]}, {"id": "B14.3.30", "lines": ["Now I will name them; may each name and scheme", "Perish like night before the morning beam."]}, {"id": "B14.3.31", "lines": ["First Garsivaz, who set this feud in train", "And sought to bring Iran distress and pain."]}, {"id": "B14.3.32", "lines": ["Then all you know descended from Tur’s line", "Who made this water bitter, dark as brine:"]}, {"id": "B14.3.33", "lines": ["Gurvi Zereh, and all his offspring base;", "Let dust and ruin fall upon his race."]}, {"id": "B14.3.34", "lines": ["The wrong they did Siavash was the key", "That opened all these bonds of misery."]}, {"id": "B14.3.35", "lines": ["Then those who wrecked Afrasiab’s heart and brain,", "And made blood pour like water on the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.3.36", "lines": ["And those who had no quarrel with our land,", "Yet joined this hostile war with sword in hand."]}, {"id": "B14.3.37", "lines": ["The mighty men who spring from Viseh’s race,", "Two-hearted men who wear a double face:"]}, {"id": "B14.3.38", "lines": ["Houman, Lahhak, and Farshidvard remain", "The men through whom Gudarz has suffered pain."]}, {"id": "B14.3.39", "lines": ["If you accomplish all that I demand,", "And end this quest for vengeance in the land,"]}, {"id": "B14.3.40", "lines": ["I will close the gate of vengeance; you may cease", "To clothe your breast in jowshan, safe in peace."]}, {"id": "B14.3.41", "lines": ["But if you answer me with words opposed,", "The gates of feud shall never more be closed."]}, {"id": "B14.3.42", "lines": ["I shall set fire to all your country’s ground,", "And burn your fields and borders all around."]}, {"id": "B14.3.43", "lines": ["Shangul and Chin’s great Khan shall not survive,", "Nor one of Turan’s warrior kin alive."]}, {"id": "B14.3.44", "lines": ["You have now tested me upon this field;", "My deeds have shown the force my arms can wield."]}, {"id": "B14.3.45", "lines": ["I am a noble of Iran, long tried", "In war against Turan and all its pride."]}, {"id": "B14.3.46", "lines": ["Full many heads I have struck down in the fray,", "Their winding-sheet the dust along the way."]}, {"id": "B14.3.47", "lines": ["I never spoke in such a way before;", "Revenge has been my purpose evermore."]}, {"id": "B14.3.48", "lines": ["Now listen well, and hear these terms of peace;", "Let feud and bloodshed find their just release.”"]}, {"id": "B14.3.49", "lines": ["At this, Houman shook like a windblown leaf,", "For Rostam’s words had filled his heart with grief."]}, {"id": "B14.3.50", "lines": ["For Rostam’s words had made the danger plain:", "His own kin stood to bear revenge and pain."]}, {"id": "B14.3.51", "lines": ["He answered, “Lion-hearted chief of fame,", "No mortal stature can surpass your frame."]}, {"id": "B14.3.52", "lines": ["With strength and stature such as you display,", "Iran’s high throne should be your seat today."]}, {"id": "B14.3.53", "lines": ["You seem a mighty Pahlevan in fight,", "Or chief of Iran, famed for strength and might."]}, {"id": "B14.3.54", "lines": ["You asked about my lineage and my name,", "Yet gave no answer when my question came."]}, {"id": "B14.3.55", "lines": ["My name is Kuh, a warrior brave and true;", "My father Bosipas was lion-like too."]}, {"id": "B14.3.56", "lines": ["I came, a soldier, with these warlike bands,", "Summoned by Turan’s Shah from distant lands."]}, {"id": "B14.3.57", "lines": ["I seek your name so all may understand", "What you desire and what your terms demand."]}, {"id": "B14.3.58", "lines": ["If you will tell me what your name may be,", "I will return with joy for all to see."]}, {"id": "B14.3.59", "lines": ["What you have spoken on this field today,", "Before the chiefs and ranks I will relay."]}, {"id": "B14.3.60", "lines": ["Before Manshur, the Khan of Chin, and all", "Turanian warriors gathered at his call.”"]}, {"id": "B14.3.61", "lines": ["But Rostam said: “Do not inquire my name;", "Report my deeds and tell him of my fame."]}, {"id": "B14.3.62", "lines": ["Love for Piran sets all my soul alight;", "My heart burns with affection, warm and bright."]}, {"id": "B14.3.63", "lines": ["His heart alone grieves for Siavash slain;", "None is more kind or mild in Turan’s domain."]}, {"id": "B14.3.64", "lines": ["Send him to me at once; let him appear,", "And we shall see what time will bring us here.”"]}, {"id": "B14.3.65", "lines": ["Then Houman answered, “Chief of lofty fame,", "You wish to see Piran; so that is your aim?"]}, {"id": "B14.3.66", "lines": ["Of Piran, Kulbad, what have you to say?", "Of Gurvi Zereh, Pulad, here today?”"]}, {"id": "B14.3.67", "lines": ["“Why speak so much?” said Rostam to his foe;", "“Do not drive water uphill from below."]}, {"id": "B14.3.68", "lines": ["Do you not see these armies, and what brought", "Them here? Because of you this war is fought.”"]}, {"id": "B14.4.1", "lines": ["Houman withdrew, his face grown pale with dread,", "And hurried to Piran with anxious tread."]}, {"id": "B14.4.2", "lines": ["“O favored one, our ruin now is sure;", "This bitter business leaves no hope secure."]}, {"id": "B14.4.3", "lines": ["This lion-heart is Rostam, Zabul’s son;", "Now weep for all our army, every one."]}, {"id": "B14.4.4", "lines": ["Iblis would shun him; none can take a stand;", "Nahang at sea or leopard on the land."]}, {"id": "B14.4.5", "lines": ["He spoke and heard replies throughout our stay;", "He named our every wrong without delay."]}, {"id": "B14.4.6", "lines": ["He named me well, O brother, as he weighed", "The vengeance due for Siavash betrayed."]}, {"id": "B14.4.7", "lines": ["He spoke of former deeds, of lands laid bare,", "Of thriving lands, his aims, and what was fair."]}, {"id": "B14.4.8", "lines": ["He named each injury, each bloody deed,", "And Bahram, Gudarz’s house, and all who bleed."]}, {"id": "B14.4.9", "lines": ["Then you will see I have not spoken lies;", "Fire draws its splendor from the sword he plies."]}, {"id": "B14.4.10", "lines": ["Of all Turan, his warm regard was due", "To you alone; no smile came into view."]}, {"id": "B14.4.11", "lines": ["He calls for you alone from all our men;", "I do not know what purpose guides him then."]}, {"id": "B14.4.12", "lines": ["Go see him, spear in hand, a mountain still,", "His towering form, one hill upon a hill."]}, {"id": "B14.4.13", "lines": ["He wears his jowshan, helmet on his head,", "And Babr-e Bayan round his body spread."]}, {"id": "B14.4.14", "lines": ["Beneath him Rakhsh, with all his strength and size,", "Seems a fierce elephant before your eyes."]}, {"id": "B14.4.15", "lines": ["Speak gently when you stand before his face;", "Keep sheathed your sword; let anger yield to grace."]}, {"id": "B14.4.16", "lines": ["He will not move until he speaks with you;", "For your sake only he remains in view.”"]}, {"id": "B14.4.17", "lines": ["Piran replied, “Exalted one, I fear", "An evil hour is drawing swiftly near."]}, {"id": "B14.4.18", "lines": ["If Rostam is the warrior on this plain,", "Our time has come for mourning and for pain."]}, {"id": "B14.4.19", "lines": ["An evil star already rules our fate;", "Fire grips our land; what ruin lies in wait?”"]}, {"id": "B14.4.20", "lines": ["He sought the Khan, his eyes with tears grown dim,", "His liver pierced, wrath burning deep in him."]}, {"id": "B14.4.21", "lines": ["He said, “O monarch, do not hasten now;", "The case has changed; deep care now clouds my brow."]}, {"id": "B14.4.22", "lines": ["When brave Kamus was brought to death and shame,", "I thought that Rostam might be this man’s name."]}, {"id": "B14.4.23", "lines": ["That iron rampart, with his coils of hide,", "Is Rostam, kamand twisting at his side."]}, {"id": "B14.4.24", "lines": ["Though Afrasiab should bring his whole array,", "Not even dreams would show Rostam turn away."]}, {"id": "B14.4.25", "lines": ["The Divs grow weary when they face his might;", "One man or field of men fares ill in fight."]}, {"id": "B14.4.26", "lines": ["Long has he ruled in Zabul, much revered,", "And like a father Siavash he reared."]}, {"id": "B14.4.27", "lines": ["He wars like one bereaved, a grieving sire;", "The world hems in its king beneath his ire."]}, {"id": "B14.4.28", "lines": ["This elephantine chief has called me near;", "From all these countless ranks, his aim unclear."]}, {"id": "B14.4.29", "lines": ["I go to learn the purpose of his call,", "For care has brought my spirit near its fall.”"]}, {"id": "B14.4.30", "lines": ["The Khan said, “Go, and speak with measured grace;", "Let gentle words befit the time and place."]}, {"id": "B14.4.31", "lines": ["If peace and wealth are what he seeks to gain,", "Why should our armies suffer on this plain?"]}, {"id": "B14.4.32", "lines": ["Promise him many gifts, and then return;", "Such endless fighting we should surely spurn."]}, {"id": "B14.4.33", "lines": ["Since he remains in leopard-skin array,", "Then surely he is bent upon the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.4.34", "lines": ["We shall put all our trust in Yazdan’s might,", "And through His strength go gladly to the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.4.35", "lines": ["Then we will all advance and hem him round,", "And make his field of battle narrow ground."]}, {"id": "B14.4.36", "lines": ["His body is not brass or iron made,", "But flesh and blood and hair before a blade."]}, {"id": "B14.4.37", "lines": ["We face him here, not in the vault of sky;", "Why let your heart grow faint and reason die?"]}, {"id": "B14.4.38", "lines": ["Though he may feed on iron, rock, and stone,", "Our shafts and zhupin still shall pierce his bone."]}, {"id": "B14.4.39", "lines": ["We outnumber them three hundredfold today;", "Do not let brooding sap your strength away."]}, {"id": "B14.4.40", "lines": ["This famous Zabuli, for all his power,", "Is but an elephant in battle’s hour."]}, {"id": "B14.4.41", "lines": ["I will show him how the elephants can play;", "He will never turn to battle from that day.”"]}, {"id": "B14.5.1", "lines": ["Piran departed full of pain and fear,", "His heart torn deep by Rostam’s doings here."]}, {"id": "B14.5.2", "lines": ["He neared Iran’s line and then cried, “O chief,", "O lover of the fray, attend my grief."]}, {"id": "B14.5.3", "lines": ["I heard that you had called for me apart,", "From all Turan’s armed men, to speak your heart."]}, {"id": "B14.5.4", "lines": ["So from my lines I came to yours today,", "To learn what purpose drew me from the fray.”"]}, {"id": "B14.5.5", "lines": ["The news reached Rostam: from Turan’s array", "A warrior had approached him on his way."]}, {"id": "B14.5.6", "lines": ["He came to meet him where the armies stand,", "An iron helm on head, before his band."]}, {"id": "B14.5.7", "lines": ["He asked, “What is your name? What thoughts abide", "Within your heart that bring you to our side?”"]}, {"id": "B14.5.8", "lines": ["The other said, “I am Piran by name,", "Afrasiab’s sepahbod, known to fame."]}, {"id": "B14.5.9", "lines": ["Your gracious words, which Houman brought to me,", "Have drawn my heart and brought me here to see."]}, {"id": "B14.5.10", "lines": ["Now tell me which Iranian chief you are,", "Whose might has drawn me from the ranks afar.”"]}, {"id": "B14.5.11", "lines": ["He said, “Rostam of Zabul speaks to you,", "With gorz and Kabuli khanjar in view.”"]}, {"id": "B14.5.12", "lines": ["When noble Piran learned that Rostam stood,", "He left his horse and bowed as honor should."]}, {"id": "B14.5.13", "lines": ["Rostam said, “Greetings from bright Kay Khosrow,", "O Pahlevan, whose noble virtues show,"]}, {"id": "B14.5.14", "lines": ["His mother, Afrasiab’s daughter, too,", "Sends greetings; every night she dreams of you.”"]}, {"id": "B14.5.15", "lines": ["Piran replied, “From Yazdan greetings flow,", "And from our gathered ranks to you they go."]}, {"id": "B14.5.16", "lines": ["May God, who gives all good, His blessings send;", "May heaven’s wheel beneath your signet bend."]}, {"id": "B14.5.17", "lines": ["Thanks be to God, my refuge, for this sight:", "I see you in your place, your spirit bright."]}, {"id": "B14.5.18", "lines": ["Zal, rider left from ancient kings of old,", "Faramarz, Zavareh; are they well and bold?"]}, {"id": "B14.5.19", "lines": ["May this world never feel the want of those;", "Do health and fortune guard them from their woes?"]}, {"id": "B14.5.20", "lines": ["If you take no offense, I shall relate", "A lesser man’s complaint against the great."]}, {"id": "B14.5.21", "lines": ["A garden tree I planted; from its root", "Came leaves of blood and colocynth for fruit."]}, {"id": "B14.5.22", "lines": ["I watered it with tears through years of strife;", "In it I placed my treasure and my life."]}, {"id": "B14.5.23", "lines": ["Though once my treasure, life, and joy it stood,", "It brought me bane instead of healing good."]}, {"id": "B14.5.24", "lines": ["For Siavash esteemed me as his sire,", "His shield from harm, his shelter from the fire."]}, {"id": "B14.5.25", "lines": ["I gave my daughter and a province then,", "To make my race shine bright among great men."]}, {"id": "B14.5.26", "lines": ["But some have slain him and my daughter too,", "As though such bitter payment were my due."]}, {"id": "B14.5.27", "lines": ["Great cares and anguish from the king and throng", "Have bent my spirit under sorrow long."]}, {"id": "B14.5.28", "lines": ["God knows my truth throughout the world’s broad frame,", "Though calling Him to witness brings me shame."]}, {"id": "B14.5.29", "lines": ["Though many years have passed, and I have heard", "Wise teachers speak their counsel, word by word,"]}, {"id": "B14.5.30", "lines": ["The mourning in my house will never cease;", "Fire from my soul affords me no release."]}, {"id": "B14.5.31", "lines": ["My eyes pour blood where tears should find their way;", "Physicians tend me through both night and day."]}, {"id": "B14.5.32", "lines": ["This deed has left me harmed, my spirit tired;", "The heavens have not moved as I desired;"]}, {"id": "B14.5.33", "lines": ["Before dark nights my eyes no shame can know;", "So much hot blood my cries have made to flow."]}, {"id": "B14.5.34", "lines": ["When news of Siavash’s death came to light,", "I lost all power to act, for wrong or right."]}, {"id": "B14.5.35", "lines": ["Between two kings and realms I stand in pain,", "Oppressed by helplessness and bitter strain."]}, {"id": "B14.5.36", "lines": ["I risked my life when Farangis faced death;", "Her father meant to take her final breath."]}, {"id": "B14.5.37", "lines": ["I hid her safely, far from royal sight,", "And never turned my back upon her plight."]}, {"id": "B14.5.38", "lines": ["Yet she now seeks my life, my peace, my all,", "As though I were her foe, condemned to fall."]}, {"id": "B14.5.39", "lines": ["All grief am I, O Pahlevan of might;", "Both sides assail me, each declaring right."]}, {"id": "B14.5.40", "lines": ["I have no way to flee Afrasiab’s snare,", "No other home or refuge anywhere."]}, {"id": "B14.5.41", "lines": ["My treasure, lands, and herds concern me still;", "I see no way to leave them, try what I will."]}, {"id": "B14.5.42", "lines": ["I have my sons and womenfolk in care;", "Such bonds and burdens are each mortal’s share."]}, {"id": "B14.5.43", "lines": ["When Afrasiab summons men to arms,", "I lose all rest beneath the war’s alarms."]}, {"id": "B14.5.44", "lines": ["Against my will I lead the armies out;", "I may not disobey, delay, or doubt."]}, {"id": "B14.5.45", "lines": ["Now show me pity in this hour of need;", "This is no time for warlike show or deed."]}, {"id": "B14.5.46", "lines": ["Had I no grief except for Pilsam slain,", "That single wound would fill my heart with pain."]}, {"id": "B14.5.47", "lines": ["Yet other gallant youths have also died,", "Who never had their fill of battle’s tide."]}, {"id": "B14.5.48", "lines": ["Now for my very life I tremble here;", "Why speak of sons and goods that I hold dear?"]}, {"id": "B14.5.49", "lines": ["By God, Conqueror, Pahlevan, I plead,", "Let no resentment mark this hour of need."]}, {"id": "B14.5.50", "lines": ["Bear no grudge against my kin; keep God in mind,", "The Maker of the world and all mankind."]}, {"id": "B14.5.51", "lines": ["By Siavash’s soul, I would welcome death instead", "Of jowshan, sword, and helmet on my head."]}, {"id": "B14.5.52", "lines": ["If our two armies clash upon the plain,", "Your eyes will see great mountains of the slain."]}, {"id": "B14.5.53", "lines": ["From Shakn, Kashan, Saklab, Hind they came,", "From lands to Sind’s great sea, all free of blame."]}, {"id": "B14.5.54", "lines": ["Though brought as soldiers to this field of strife,", "They neither shed his blood nor sought his life."]}, {"id": "B14.5.55", "lines": ["Peace with me serves us better far than war;", "Do not pursue this grievance any more."]}, {"id": "B14.5.56", "lines": ["Speak out your mind; far wiser are you than I,", "And mightier in battle beneath the sky.”"]}, {"id": "B14.5.57", "lines": ["Rostam replied not as Piran desired,", "Nor gave the answer that his hopes required:"]}, {"id": "B14.5.58", "lines": ["“Since I came here, armed ready for the fight,", "With all the Shah’s brave warriors in their might,"]}, {"id": "B14.5.59", "lines": ["I have seen you act with truth in all you do,", "And seek that all Turan be truthful too."]}, {"id": "B14.5.60", "lines": ["The leopard knows that war and strife are ill;", "The rocks and mountains hold that knowledge still."]}, {"id": "B14.5.61", "lines": ["Yet when the king of kings seeks vengeance, then", "We rain our arrows as befits brave men."]}, {"id": "B14.5.62", "lines": ["Two roads to peace lie open to your view;", "Consider which is suitable for you."]}, {"id": "B14.5.63", "lines": ["First, send to Kay Khosrow in binding chains", "All those whose crimes have brought these bloody pains."]}, {"id": "B14.5.64", "lines": ["Then he may choose to end this bloody strife,", "And spare the armies further loss of life."]}, {"id": "B14.5.65", "lines": ["Send those who share the guilt for Siavash slain,", "Though absent from the battle on this plain."]}, {"id": "B14.5.66", "lines": ["Or else prepare yourself; come at my side,", "And stand before our Shah with humbled pride."]}, {"id": "B14.5.67", "lines": ["As for the wealth and goods you leave behind,", "Our Shah will grant you tenfold of their kind."]}, {"id": "B14.5.68", "lines": ["Forget the camp of Turan, all its gear;", "Let none of what you leave detain you here.”"]}, {"id": "B14.5.69", "lines": ["Piran reflected, “What a tangled thing:", "To leave Turan and go before that king!"]}, {"id": "B14.5.70", "lines": ["He asks for guilty men to bear the blame;", "He would bring low, in Siavash’s name,"]}, {"id": "B14.5.71", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s great nobles, all his kin,", "With thrones and wealth, and rank to glory in."]}, {"id": "B14.5.72", "lines": ["How could I speak of such a boundless quest?", "No head or foot defines this wild request."]}, {"id": "B14.5.73", "lines": ["Brave Houman, Lahhak, Farshidvard would fall;", "They brought Gudarz such grief beyond recall."]}, {"id": "B14.5.74", "lines": ["All are involved; there is no course to show;", "This water has no channel where to flow."]}, {"id": "B14.5.75", "lines": ["I must devise a fitting course today;", "The road of war must be my chosen way.”"]}, {"id": "B14.5.76", "lines": ["Then Piran said, “O Pahlevan, may you", "Stay young and glad, with spirit bright and true."]}, {"id": "B14.5.77", "lines": ["To Manshur, Shangul, and the Khan I will go,", "And tell the chiefs these words, that they may know."]}, {"id": "B14.5.78", "lines": ["By hiyun I will send my words to shake", "Afrasiab from sleep and make him wake.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.1", "lines": ["Like wind, Piran returned; his summons went", "To Viseh’s kin, who came with grave intent."]}, {"id": "B14.6.2", "lines": ["He told the secret: “Now our fall or rise", "Has come; let truth stand clear before your eyes."]}, {"id": "B14.6.3", "lines": ["This lion-hearted man is Rostam here;", "He takes this field in grief for one held dear,"]}, {"id": "B14.6.4", "lines": ["With chiefs and lions out of Zabul’s pride,", "And noble men from Kabul at his side."]}, {"id": "B14.6.5", "lines": ["Since Rostam leads and comes as vengeful guide,", "No horseman in the world can turn the tide."]}, {"id": "B14.6.6", "lines": ["With Gudarz, Keshvad’s son, come chiefs of might;", "Tus, Giv; we face disgrace, compelled to fight."]}, {"id": "B14.6.7", "lines": ["He seeks the guilty men of Turan’s band,", "And spares the guiltless by his measured hand."]}, {"id": "B14.6.8", "lines": ["Who here, to your own knowledge, is not stained,", "Or by our king’s affection not sustained?"]}, {"id": "B14.6.9", "lines": ["Behold, our country nears a ruined state;", "Iran’s bold warriors will command our fate."]}, {"id": "B14.6.10", "lines": ["All will be lost: young, old, the king struck down,", "The army, treasure, throne, and royal crown."]}, {"id": "B14.6.11", "lines": ["I told our unjust king, ‘Do not burn high", "With storm and fire beneath the turning sky."]}, {"id": "B14.6.12", "lines": ["Some day, without a warning, fire will blind", "Your heart’s eye, and to ashes burn your mind.’"]}, {"id": "B14.6.13", "lines": ["That proud king scorned the counsel I supplied,", "And all the words his wisest nobles tried."]}, {"id": "B14.6.14", "lines": ["He murdered noble Prince Siavash then,", "Without the counsel of the wisest men."]}, {"id": "B14.6.15", "lines": ["No ivory throne or crown will stand or thrive;", "No warlike elephant will leave alive."]}, {"id": "B14.6.16", "lines": ["Iran’s king will rejoice at what he sees,", "While pain will bend our warriors to their knees."]}, {"id": "B14.6.17", "lines": ["Woe for our gallant hearts, this lordly band,", "With farr and stature, crown and throne so grand."]}, {"id": "B14.6.18", "lines": ["All will be spoiled before your watching eyes;", "None leaves the battlefield with happy cries."]}, {"id": "B14.6.19", "lines": ["Their horses trample us in fierce assault;", "Our wakeful fortune’s water tastes of salt."]}, {"id": "B14.6.20", "lines": ["My heart burns sore for Houman in this hour;", "My soul for Ruyin flames with equal power."]}, {"id": "B14.6.21", "lines": ["For Rostam’s heart is full of vengeance grim;", "For Siavash his brows are dark and dim."]}, {"id": "B14.6.22", "lines": ["I go in sorrow to the Khan and tell", "How dearly on my soul this vengeance fell.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.23", "lines": ["Swift as the dust, with sighing lips he sped,", "His heart brimmed blood; his eyes their yellow tears shed."]}, {"id": "B14.6.24", "lines": ["There bloody tulips bloomed on saffron cheeks;", "The Khan’s pavilion rang with mourners’ shrieks."]}, {"id": "B14.6.25", "lines": ["Kamus’s kin had come, a grieving throng,", "Before the Khan for redress of such a wrong."]}, {"id": "B14.6.26", "lines": ["They cried, “Afrasiab will no more dream", "Of greatness, crown, or kingship’s golden gleam."]}, {"id": "B14.6.27", "lines": ["Why did a king who has no man to fight", "Begin this feud and bring us such a plight?"]}, {"id": "B14.6.28", "lines": ["To avenge Kamus, with tearful eyes, we go", "With Kashan’s troops to Chin, our hearts in woe."]}, {"id": "B14.6.29", "lines": ["From Chin and Barbar armies shall be led", "To seek revenge for brave Kamus, now dead."]}, {"id": "B14.6.30", "lines": ["From Buzgush, Sagzars, Mazandaran, call", "With men bearing heavy gorz, one and all."]}, {"id": "B14.6.31", "lines": ["Let them make war on Rostam, shouting high,", "Till none can hear his voice or battle-cry."]}, {"id": "B14.6.32", "lines": ["If Afrasiab seeks vengeance, let him keep", "No rest within his heart, no ease, no sleep.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.33", "lines": ["The kin of Ashkabus and Chingish came;", "Their drum-like clamor rose in grief and flame."]}, {"id": "B14.6.34", "lines": ["In anguish for their kin, their tears were shed", "Like gall on saffron cheeks, where color fled."]}, {"id": "B14.6.35", "lines": ["They said through tears, “From now, we shall not rest,", "Nor sleep while rage still burns within the breast."]}, {"id": "B14.6.36", "lines": ["We set Sistan on fire, and from that day", "Its people bear the grief we bring their way."]}, {"id": "B14.6.37", "lines": ["We set great Rostam’s head upon a stake,", "In mourning for our chief, for vengeance’ sake."]}, {"id": "B14.6.38", "lines": ["His corpse shall burn to answer for our dead,", "Before his door his ashes shall be spread.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.39", "lines": ["Piran was dazed; his face grew dark, aware", "Of all their lamentation and despair."]}, {"id": "B14.6.40", "lines": ["He said, “Afflicted men, helpless and worn,", "Fed upon grief, by pain and care forlorn,"]}, {"id": "B14.6.41", "lines": ["You surely do not know your time is near,", "And almost ended under fate and fear.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.42", "lines": ["He sought the Khan and said, “This little war", "Has lengthened into something grave and sore."]}, {"id": "B14.6.43", "lines": ["A nahang from the sea has come to fight,", "His jowshan leopard-hide; a fearsome sight."]}, {"id": "B14.6.44", "lines": ["For Rostam has brought troops from every side,", "And famous chiefs with vengeance as their guide."]}, {"id": "B14.6.45", "lines": ["Our toil is lost; the price of wrong is paid;", "Injustice reaps the ruin it has laid."]}, {"id": "B14.6.46", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s judgment failed; his own hand", "Slew Siavash, and grief engulfed the land."]}, {"id": "B14.6.47", "lines": ["The senseless Garsivaz urged on that deed,", "And sowed for all of us this bitter seed."]}, {"id": "B14.6.48", "lines": ["Now Siavash was wise, of royal race,", "And Rostam raised him with a father’s grace."]}, {"id": "B14.6.49", "lines": ["To avenge his fosterling, that warrior’s might", "Will bring the turning heavens down in fight."]}, {"id": "B14.6.50", "lines": ["No leopard’s claw, no mountain’s lofty wall,", "No trunk of elephant, no Nile at all,"]}, {"id": "B14.6.51", "lines": ["Will stand against him when he takes the field", "Before his troops; no strength will make him yield."]}, {"id": "B14.6.52", "lines": ["He rides on Rakhsh through seas of blood that flow;", "No ship is needed where that horse can go."]}, {"id": "B14.6.53", "lines": ["We must not count this conflict slight or small;", "All men have seen his power over all."]}, {"id": "B14.6.54", "lines": ["A fire has fallen from the azure sky,", "And smoke has filled our hearts; its heat burns high."]}, {"id": "B14.6.55", "lines": ["Convoke the sages, Mobadan, and peers,", "And seek a cure before disaster nears."]}, {"id": "B14.6.56", "lines": ["Find us a champion fit to take the field,", "That we may yet escape before we yield."]}, {"id": "B14.6.57", "lines": ["Perhaps we may escape this evil plight", "And reach our homes, though fortune’s strength be slight."]}, {"id": "B14.6.58", "lines": ["If we would set our troubled business right,", "We should not first have sought this feud and fight.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.59", "lines": ["The Khan, disturbed by what Piran had said,", "Invoked the Maker’s name in sudden dread."]}, {"id": "B14.6.60", "lines": ["The Khan asked, “What course now can meet our need,", "Against an army fierce in war and deed?”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.61", "lines": ["Then Shangul said, “Exalted one, why speak", "At such great length? What answer do you seek?"]}, {"id": "B14.6.62", "lines": ["We crossed the desert and the sea to bring", "Our aid to Afrasiab, Turan’s great king."]}, {"id": "B14.6.63", "lines": ["We gained rich gifts and horses on our ride,", "And hastened here from countries far and wide."]}, {"id": "B14.6.64", "lines": ["We came like lions; shall we now retreat,", "And slink like frightened foxes in defeat?"]}, {"id": "B14.6.65", "lines": ["We sprang like lions, swift along our course;", "Why should we tremble now before their force?"]}, {"id": "B14.6.66", "lines": ["Because one Sagzi now has drawn so near,", "Why has this business filled you all with fear?"]}, {"id": "B14.6.67", "lines": ["It shames us even speaking of one man;", "We must begin upon a different plan."]}, {"id": "B14.6.68", "lines": ["Grant Rostam is an elephant afield,", "Yet lions to his grasp will never yield."]}, {"id": "B14.6.69", "lines": ["Though fate has taken Kamus, strong and brave,", "We must not falter now beside his grave."]}, {"id": "B14.6.70", "lines": ["Since sleepless fear has seized Piran’s proud breast,", "He fears great Rostam, robbed of nightly rest."]}, {"id": "B14.6.71", "lines": ["What chief respects a man who begs for aid,", "His hand outstretched, his helplessness displayed?"]}, {"id": "B14.6.72", "lines": ["No raging elephant is lion’s peer;", "Piran inflates his tale of strength through fear."]}, {"id": "B14.6.73", "lines": ["Stand firm in this resolve; hold fast your might;", "Let fear of him not weaken you in fight."]}, {"id": "B14.6.74", "lines": ["At dawn we will then raise our gorz for the fray,", "And lead our army forward in array."]}, {"id": "B14.6.75", "lines": ["We will make the air like clouds that come in spring,", "And on their ranks a rain of arrows fling."]}, {"id": "B14.6.76", "lines": ["Let horsemen’s dust and axes’ blows confound", "All sight of head and foot upon the ground."]}, {"id": "B14.6.77", "lines": ["Observe me well; when I raise my war-cry,", "Charge in full force and drive the dust on high."]}, {"id": "B14.6.78", "lines": ["Our warriors and our horsemen, brave and strong,", "Exceed a hundred thousand in this throng."]}, {"id": "B14.6.79", "lines": ["Shall living men behave as though they died,", "And shrink from one, with honor cast aside?"]}, {"id": "B14.6.80", "lines": ["When I confront the Sagzi in the fray,", "Send dust into the sky from your array."]}, {"id": "B14.6.81", "lines": ["Let not a single man escape this strife;", "A coward’s heart is worthless in this life.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.82", "lines": ["The army heard Shangul’s words, fierce and bold;", "Young grew the hearts of men already old."]}, {"id": "B14.6.83", "lines": ["Piran said, “May you live in bliss always;", "May battle feed your soul through all your days.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.84", "lines": ["The nobles and the Khan of Chin acclaimed", "The king of Hind whose fiery courage flamed."]}, {"id": "B14.6.85", "lines": ["When to his tent Piran at last returned,", "The chiefs arose to hear what he had learned."]}, {"id": "B14.6.86", "lines": ["Houman, Barman, and Nastihan drew near,", "Some glad, some grieving, all intent to hear."]}, {"id": "B14.6.87", "lines": ["Houman inquired, “What purpose governs now?", "Will peace take root, or war bend every brow?”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.88", "lines": ["Piran told all that brave Shangul had said,", "And how the troops had pledged to fight instead."]}, {"id": "B14.6.89", "lines": ["Displeased, Houman then spoke with bitter tongue,", "And cursed the words ill-starred Shangul had flung."]}, {"id": "B14.6.90", "lines": ["To Piran Houman said, “What time will bring", "None can escape beneath the heavens’ ring.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.91", "lines": ["He came to Kulbad, speaking on the way:", "“Does Shangul have no wisdom left today?"]}, {"id": "B14.6.92", "lines": ["If this is Rostam, whom I saw, whose name", "I heard from chiefs who knew his deeds and fame,"]}, {"id": "B14.6.93", "lines": ["Shangul, Kundur, Manshur, Chin’s Khan: not one", "Will live when Rostam’s onslaught has begun."]}, {"id": "B14.6.94", "lines": ["Withdraw awhile; let gain and loss be weighed,", "And judge what fortune has before us laid."]}, {"id": "B14.6.95", "lines": ["Of this vast force, whose heavy gorz might", "Subdue the world, whose chiefs are bold in fight,"]}, {"id": "B14.6.96", "lines": ["Two-thirds will lie in earth; their armor, red", "With blood, jowshan and helm, will shroud the dead.”"]}, {"id": "B14.6.97", "lines": ["Kulbad replied, “O wielder of the blade,", "Speak no ill omens; do not be afraid."]}, {"id": "B14.6.98", "lines": ["Do not torment your heart with grief this day;", "The matter yet may turn another way."]}, {"id": "B14.6.99", "lines": ["The wiser course is not to grieve or fear", "For evils that have not yet come so near.”"]}, {"id": "B14.7.1", "lines": ["Rostam called all his mighty chiefs to stand,", "And spoke of what the hour would now demand."]}, {"id": "B14.7.2", "lines": ["Tus, Giv, Gudarz, and Rohham came to hear,", "With Fariborz and brave Gostaham near."]}, {"id": "B14.7.3", "lines": ["Gorgin, the seasoned horseman, joined the throng,", "With Bijan, bright in battle, brave and strong."]}, {"id": "B14.7.4", "lines": ["The peerless chief addressed the gathered band:", "“Wise, wakeful Mobadan, hear, understand."]}, {"id": "B14.7.5", "lines": ["The man whom God makes fortunate and high", "Is fit for wealth and throne beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B14.7.6", "lines": ["He shall possess the world, prevail in fight,", "Nor use his hand to trample what is right."]}, {"id": "B14.7.7", "lines": ["Our strength is all from God; why do we tread", "This darkened earth until our days are dead?"]}, {"id": "B14.7.8", "lines": ["To think no evil, choose the upright course,", "The way of God, with wisdom as its source."]}, {"id": "B14.7.9", "lines": ["The world is no man’s own; it is not well", "To take much joy in this uncertain spell."]}, {"id": "B14.7.10", "lines": ["Let kindness and uprightness guide each deed;", "Swift harm and loss from knavery proceed."]}, {"id": "B14.7.11", "lines": ["Piran came swiftly, deeply seared at heart,", "And spoke of Siavash, and of his part."]}, {"id": "B14.7.12", "lines": ["He told what kindness Siavash had known,", "And all the pain that kindness made his own."]}, {"id": "B14.7.13", "lines": ["His words and deeds had saved our Shah from death,", "And freed Farangis from the Dragon’s breath."]}, {"id": "B14.7.14", "lines": ["And yet my heart forebodes that wise Piran", "Shall be among the first to fall for Turan."]}, {"id": "B14.7.15", "lines": ["His son and brother perish in his sight,", "With many noble kinsmen in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.7.16", "lines": ["I saw in dreams how Afrasiab would fall,", "Slain by Kay Khosrow; I beheld it all."]}, {"id": "B14.7.17", "lines": ["The guilty all shall perish at our feet;", "Not one shall pass beyond war’s burning heat."]}, {"id": "B14.7.18", "lines": ["Yet I would never be the one to slay", "Their chief and those who stand in his array."]}, {"id": "B14.7.19", "lines": ["He has no craft but truth and honesty;", "No evil thought is born from his decree."]}, {"id": "B14.7.20", "lines": ["If he fulfills the words he spoke today,", "Let ancient wrongs be set and stored away."]}, {"id": "B14.7.21", "lines": ["If he yields culprits, goods, and what is due,", "The war is done for me and ended too."]}, {"id": "B14.7.22", "lines": ["For in this world, the honest path is best;", "I have no further quarrel to contest."]}, {"id": "B14.7.23", "lines": ["If chiefs with thrones and elephants in file,", "Whose army spreads as broadly as the Nile,"]}, {"id": "B14.7.24", "lines": ["Send tribute here and bow before our might,", "Then I will have no need for further fight."]}, {"id": "B14.7.25", "lines": ["Then let their thrones and treasure reach us here;", "From them no further trouble need we fear."]}, {"id": "B14.7.26", "lines": ["We will not guard the world by blood we spill;", "A better path is open to us still."]}, {"id": "B14.7.27", "lines": ["The world is full of treasure, throne, and crown;", "How blessed to win them all in high renown!”"]}, {"id": "B14.7.28", "lines": ["Gudarz, on hearing, rose and spoke outright:", "“O generous chief, who follows what is right,"]}, {"id": "B14.7.29", "lines": ["Pillar of troops, adornment of the throne,", "Through you the crown and royal helm have shone."]}, {"id": "B14.7.30", "lines": ["Your shining wisdom is your spirit’s bread,", "The wealth by which its living strength is fed."]}, {"id": "B14.7.31", "lines": ["Peace is the wiser course; but to begin,", "Remember that your ox is in its skin."]}, {"id": "B14.7.32", "lines": ["I will repeat a saying from old days:", "Now hear the ancient counsel it conveys."]}, {"id": "B14.7.33", "lines": ["As necks draw back when heavy loads increase,", "So wicked souls draw back from thoughts of peace."]}, {"id": "B14.7.34", "lines": ["Piran gives pledges now beneath the strain,", "But strives to break the peace those vows maintain."]}, {"id": "B14.7.35", "lines": ["The Maker shaped him with a double heart;", "Trust not his words or any guileful art."]}, {"id": "B14.7.36", "lines": ["When first we set the armies in array,", "We held a parley, keeping war at bay."]}, {"id": "B14.7.37", "lines": ["An envoy came from him to make it clear,", "‘I seek no strife, no drawn-out conflict here."]}, {"id": "B14.7.38", "lines": ["I want no lands or tents to call my own;", "I pledge my service to the royal throne.’"]}, {"id": "B14.7.39", "lines": ["He heard our counsel, then replied, ‘I will go", "And tell my kin the things they need to know."]}, {"id": "B14.7.40", "lines": ["I have my throne, my herds, my treasure-hoard;", "My kin shall lack no good that these afford."]}, {"id": "B14.7.41", "lines": ["I will take a quiet corner, out of sight,", "Lest at the Shah’s court guilt should come to light.’"]}, {"id": "B14.7.42", "lines": ["I said, ‘Your course is fitting; here remain.", "In Iran, throne and treasure you will gain.’"]}, {"id": "B14.7.43", "lines": ["Piran, when we had spoken, went his way,", "And with the Div consorted till the day."]}, {"id": "B14.7.44", "lines": ["He sent Afrasiab a hiyun to say,", "‘The troops have come; now set yours in array.’"]}, {"id": "B14.7.45", "lines": ["It seemed our parley never had been heard;", "The empty air dissolved our every word."]}, {"id": "B14.7.46", "lines": ["Upon the tenth day, Piran’s troops were spread", "Across the plain; his army swarmed ahead."]}, {"id": "B14.7.47", "lines": ["And now, O chief, he comes across your way,", "And sets another trap for you today."]}, {"id": "B14.7.48", "lines": ["He knows but guile and cunning in disguise,", "Yet scatters words that make him seem so wise."]}, {"id": "B14.7.49", "lines": ["Your kamand’s coils have filled his heart with fright;", "Well may he fear, recalling such a sight."]}, {"id": "B14.7.50", "lines": ["Their whole reliance rested on Kamus,", "On brave Manshur and chieftains like Fartus."]}, {"id": "B14.7.51", "lines": ["He saw Kamus, whose fortune now had fled,", "Caught in the kamand’s coils and lying dead."]}, {"id": "B14.7.52", "lines": ["Now Piran seeks to make his warfare cease;", "He dares not stay afield, but asks for peace."]}, {"id": "B14.7.53", "lines": ["Since he perceived his fall was drawing near,", "He used deceit and clever ploy from fear."]}, {"id": "B14.7.54", "lines": ["As for the guilty men and treasure due,", "Which he declared he would gather and bring you,"]}, {"id": "B14.7.55", "lines": ["You will perceive when koust begin to sound,", "And Tus and Fariborz contest the ground,"]}, {"id": "B14.7.56", "lines": ["He will himself lead forward in the van,", "And make fresh war according to his plan."]}, {"id": "B14.7.57", "lines": ["All that he says is false; deceit his guide;", "The dark Ahriman marches at his side."]}, {"id": "B14.7.58", "lines": ["If you are deaf to me, recall my son,", "Bahram; behold what Piran’s guile has done."]}, {"id": "B14.7.59", "lines": ["He flattered him with guile; yet in the fray", "The Gudarzians lay in death’s array."]}, {"id": "B14.7.60", "lines": ["A graveyard of my sons he made me see;", "I must weep blood through life in misery."]}, {"id": "B14.7.61", "lines": ["My cure shall come from an Indian blade.”", "Then Rostam said, “Your words are wisely weighed."]}, {"id": "B14.7.62", "lines": ["You speak with wisdom; he is as you say.", "We differ from him, plain as light of day."]}, {"id": "B14.7.63", "lines": ["Yet since he has done good to us before,", "I would not press the feud forevermore."]}, {"id": "B14.7.64", "lines": ["Remember how he helped our Shah in pain,", "And grieved for Siavash, unjustly slain."]}, {"id": "B14.7.65", "lines": ["If he breaks faith and brings his force to stand,", "And comes to fight us with his warlike band,"]}, {"id": "B14.7.66", "lines": ["My kamand at the saddle-straps is bound;", "Its coils can bring fierce elephants to ground."]}, {"id": "B14.7.67", "lines": ["Yet I will not imagine ill at first;", "Perhaps we may escape the conflict’s worst."]}, {"id": "B14.7.68", "lines": ["But if he proves a traitor in the end,", "No pity shall we feel, no care extend.”"]}, {"id": "B14.7.69", "lines": ["Gudarz and Tus praised Rostam’s judgment clear:", "“The sun itself could not deceive you here."]}, {"id": "B14.7.70", "lines": ["In your bright presence, fraud and falsehood fail;", "Piran’s own words can hide beneath no veil."]}, {"id": "B14.7.71", "lines": ["May earth never lack our monarch’s crowned head;", "May you be his support through years ahead.”"]}, {"id": "B14.7.72", "lines": ["Rostam replied, “Night’s darkness fills the air;", "Our minds are dazed by all the talk we share."]}, {"id": "B14.7.73", "lines": ["We will drink till midnight; through the hours of night", "Still left, we will tend the army till the light."]}, {"id": "B14.7.74", "lines": ["We will see what God, who made the world, will show;", "What lies concealed within the things we know.”"]}, {"id": "B14.7.75", "lines": ["He told Iran’s chiefs, “Tonight, with red wine,", "I seek a happy omen and a sign."]}, {"id": "B14.7.76", "lines": ["At dawn I grip great Sahm’s renowned gorz fast;", "It struck Mazandaran in battles past;"]}, {"id": "B14.7.77", "lines": ["And shoulder it to seek the coming fight,", "Where that nahang stands firm in all his might."]}, {"id": "B14.7.78", "lines": ["Pavilion, gorz, tiara, crown and throne", "Of ivory, and elephants full-grown,"]}, {"id": "B14.7.79", "lines": ["I will bring and give to Iran’s warriors all,", "If I take arms and answer battle’s call.”"]}, {"id": "B14.7.80", "lines": ["The noble chiefs cried out, then each one went", "To seek his sleep and rest within his tent."]}, {"id": "B14.8.1", "lines": ["When dawn displayed the sun’s bright crown of gold,", "The moon’s face shone, a silver shield to behold."]}, {"id": "B14.8.2", "lines": ["But terror-stricken at the rising sound,", "She veiled her face and slipped from heaven’s round."]}, {"id": "B14.8.3", "lines": ["The tabira thundered before Tus’ tent;", "Earth turned to ebony with dust steeds sent."]}, {"id": "B14.8.4", "lines": ["The air was filled; the ground turned indigo,", "And Rostam donned his jowshan for the foe."]}, {"id": "B14.8.5", "lines": ["Gudarz, the son of Keshvad, held the right,", "In jowshan, steel gorz raised, prepared to fight."]}, {"id": "B14.8.6", "lines": ["Upon the left, Fariborz raised on high", "His wolf-marked standard, reaching toward the sky."]}, {"id": "B14.8.7", "lines": ["Shah Nohzar’s son, brave Tus, held central ground,", "No empty space upon the earth was found."]}, {"id": "B14.8.8", "lines": ["Then peerless Rostam rode before his men,", "To shield them from the foe who faced them then."]}, {"id": "B14.8.9", "lines": ["The Khan held center; elephants stood high,", "Like Mount Bistoon rising toward the sky."]}, {"id": "B14.8.10", "lines": ["Kundur, the lion-taker, held the right,", "With sword and arrows, valiant in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.8.11", "lines": ["Veteran Gahar held the leftward ground;", "The horses’ trampling tore the earth around."]}, {"id": "B14.8.12", "lines": ["Piran rode past the ranks from side to side,", "And came where lordly Shangul stood in pride."]}, {"id": "B14.8.13", "lines": ["“O lord of Hind,” he said, “your word holds fast", "Across both Hind and Sind, from first to last."]}, {"id": "B14.8.14", "lines": ["You said to me: ‘Tomorrow at first light", "From every side I will lead the troops to fight."]}, {"id": "B14.8.15", "lines": ["Then I shall challenge Rostam’s strength and fame,", "And bring his cloud-high head to dust and shame.’”"]}, {"id": "B14.8.16", "lines": ["He answered, “I stand firm in what I said;", "No more nor less; I follow where it led."]}, {"id": "B14.8.17", "lines": ["Now I will face that captor in the strife,", "And sew him through with pikan to end his life."]}, {"id": "B14.8.18", "lines": ["I will seek revenge for brave Kamus in fight,", "And press the men of Iran with my might.”"]}, {"id": "B14.8.19", "lines": ["He split the troops in three; the koust rang round,", "And dust rose up from all the trampled ground."]}, {"id": "B14.8.20", "lines": ["One part advanced with elephants in train;", "Its line stretched out two mil across the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.8.21", "lines": ["The drivers’ heads were decked in colors bright;", "Each wore a crown, with earrings catching light."]}, {"id": "B14.8.22", "lines": ["Gold collars clasped their necks; around each waist", "A belt of beaten gold was firmly placed."]}, {"id": "B14.8.23", "lines": ["Chin diba hung from elephants arrayed;", "Upon their backs were golden thrones displayed."]}, {"id": "B14.8.24", "lines": ["The karnay sounded; elephants of war", "Moved from their places at its mighty roar."]}, {"id": "B14.8.25", "lines": ["Then thirty thousand horsemen took the right,", "Proud and renowned, advancing to the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.8.26", "lines": ["Upon the left came thirty thousand more,", "With bows and shields of Chin that each one bore."]}, {"id": "B14.8.27", "lines": ["The Khan and elephants in central rank", "Rolled up the earth between each moving flank."]}, {"id": "B14.9.1", "lines": ["Shangul went forth with Indian sword in hand,", "Between the lines where rival armies stand."]}, {"id": "B14.9.2", "lines": ["A parasol from Hind rose to the sky,", "Men out of Danbar, Morgh, and out of Mai,"]}, {"id": "B14.9.3", "lines": ["Behind him, left and right, obeyed his call;", "He led them where he wished, commanding all."]}, {"id": "B14.9.4", "lines": ["When Piran saw him, gladness filled his heart;", "His fear of Rostam’s battle fell apart."]}, {"id": "B14.9.5", "lines": ["To Houman then he said, “Fate takes our side;", "Today our hearts’ desire shall be supplied."]}, {"id": "B14.9.6", "lines": ["With such equipment and this warlike band,", "Proud as fierce lions, see how firm they stand."]}, {"id": "B14.9.7", "lines": ["Do not go forth before the ranks today;", "Today and tomorrow, keep clear of the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.9.8", "lines": ["Behind the Khan of Chin now hold your stance,", "Two hundred riders waiting to advance."]}, {"id": "B14.9.9", "lines": ["If that Zabuli, black flag raised on high,", "Should see you, all our hopes of triumph die."]}, {"id": "B14.9.10", "lines": ["Let us observe what fortune brings to light,", "What games our wakeful luck will play in fight.”"]}, {"id": "B14.9.11", "lines": ["Piran then sought the gathered chiefs, and found", "Great Rostam standing on the battleground."]}, {"id": "B14.9.12", "lines": ["He left his horse and hailed the chief with praise:", "“The lofty heavens draw from you their rays."]}, {"id": "B14.9.13", "lines": ["May fortune never sink, nor terror’s shade", "Fall on your face or leave your heart dismayed."]}, {"id": "B14.9.14", "lines": ["When I returned, I called their chiefs to meet,", "And gave your message, every word complete."]}, {"id": "B14.9.15", "lines": ["Who on the earth can praise you as is due?", "I told them all the noble deeds you do."]}, {"id": "B14.9.16", "lines": ["I spoke of peace and war; from every side", "I pressed the matter; every path I tried."]}, {"id": "B14.9.17", "lines": ["At last they answered, ‘How can we comply,", "And by your counsel let this vengeance die?"]}, {"id": "B14.9.18", "lines": ["Whatever gold and treasure he may need,", "We can supply; in this we are agreed."]}, {"id": "B14.9.19", "lines": ["But guilty chiefs we cannot yield away;", "Consider what you ask of us today."]}, {"id": "B14.9.20", "lines": ["The guilty are Afrasiab’s kin; take care,", "And do not speak in haste of this affair."]}, {"id": "B14.9.21", "lines": ["All those whom Rostam asks of us are great,", "Chiefs crowned and throned, all men of high estate."]}, {"id": "B14.9.22", "lines": ["How can we yield such chiefs? What can we say?", "Demands like these would turn a young man gray."]}, {"id": "B14.9.23", "lines": ["When such an army comes from Chin’s far strand,", "From Saklab, Hind, and Turan’s own land,"]}, {"id": "B14.9.24", "lines": ["Why should Afrasiab seek peace today,", "When troops have crossed the land and sea this way?’"]}, {"id": "B14.9.25", "lines": ["Their answer brought me blame from every side;", "So I returned to you with hurried stride."]}, {"id": "B14.9.26", "lines": ["The king of Hind seeks battle, bow in hand,", "With arrows and a blade from his own land."]}, {"id": "B14.9.27", "lines": ["Now from their troops a sea of warriors flows,", "All primed for battle, eager for their foes."]}, {"id": "B14.9.28", "lines": ["They do not know you; ‘Sagzi’ is the name", "They give you, knowing nothing of your fame."]}, {"id": "B14.9.29", "lines": ["Yet I am sure this band will weep, downcast,", "When Rostam’s storm of vengeance has swept past.”"]}, {"id": "B14.9.30", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, his wrath became a flame;", "He cried, “Ill-fated man, you merit shame!"]}, {"id": "B14.9.31", "lines": ["Why are you steeped in treachery and lies?", "Why walk where ruin yawns before your eyes?"]}, {"id": "B14.9.32", "lines": ["The king of earth named your treachery clear,", "Apart from courtiers, where none else could hear."]}, {"id": "B14.9.33", "lines": ["I see your wisdom now, your vaunted art:", "From head to foot, all falsehood, every part."]}, {"id": "B14.9.34", "lines": ["You wallow heedlessly in blood, your own;", "Worse waits ahead than all that you have known."]}, {"id": "B14.9.35", "lines": ["Whether your land is Hell or Paradise,", "Recall the words I offered as advice:"]}, {"id": "B14.9.36", "lines": ["I told you, ‘Leave this black and evil land,", "And choose a settled realm by wisdom planned."]}, {"id": "B14.9.37", "lines": ["Such life is worthless; look upon its cause;", "Your head lies in the Dragon’s grinding jaws."]}, {"id": "B14.9.38", "lines": ["You might behold our Shah, so young and fair,", "Just, gracious, loving, gentle in his care.’"]}, {"id": "B14.9.39", "lines": ["But boar and leopard skins you choose to wear", "Seem sweeter than bright diba, rich and rare."]}, {"id": "B14.9.40", "lines": ["None will dispute the choice that you have shown;", "You now shall eat the harvest you have sown.”"]}, {"id": "B14.9.41", "lines": ["Piran replied, “O man of fortune bright,", "Strong, glad, the throne’s adornment and delight,"]}, {"id": "B14.9.42", "lines": ["O you whose wisdom fathoms all things true,", "May chiefs bring homage and all honor due."]}, {"id": "B14.9.43", "lines": ["My heart and spirit stand at your command;", "My soul remains a hostage in your hand."]}, {"id": "B14.9.44", "lines": ["Tonight I will weigh this matter on my own,", "Then speak before the chiefs and make it known.”"]}, {"id": "B14.9.45", "lines": ["He sought the center, black of heart, his tongue", "All lies; his spirit to revenge still clung."]}, {"id": "B14.10.1", "lines": ["Piran departed; both sides filled the ground,", "Which seemed a seething mountain all around."]}, {"id": "B14.10.2", "lines": ["Then Rostam spoke to Iran’s gathered might:", "“My arms are ready; vengeance guides the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.10.3", "lines": ["Let every warrior harden heart and brow;", "Let vengeance fill each one among you now."]}, {"id": "B14.10.4", "lines": ["A mighty battle waits for us today;", "Both wolf and sheep shall show their worth in fray."]}, {"id": "B14.10.5", "lines": ["The reader of the stars once said to me", "What fight would come; I feared what was to be:"]}, {"id": "B14.10.6", "lines": ["‘Between two mountains, men shall mass for fight;", "A world of warriors there shall all unite."]}, {"id": "B14.10.7", "lines": ["The seasoned chiefs will gather to the fray;", "That strife shall strip the world of men that day."]}, {"id": "B14.10.8", "lines": ["Earth shall no longer bear revenge’s tracks;", "The gorz of steel shall grow as soft as wax.’"]}, {"id": "B14.10.9", "lines": ["Whoever comes against me in the fight,", "Let no misgiving put your hearts to flight."]}, {"id": "B14.10.10", "lines": ["I bind both hands within my kamand tight,", "Though heaven stand beside him in his might."]}, {"id": "B14.10.11", "lines": ["Let none of you, together in the field,", "Before those famous chiefs lose heart or yield."]}, {"id": "B14.10.12", "lines": ["If death must find me where the armies meet,", "Upon that field my days shall be complete."]}, {"id": "B14.10.13", "lines": ["To die with my good name is well for me;", "I seek that name; my flesh death’s own shall be."]}, {"id": "B14.10.14", "lines": ["You need a name that time shall not efface;", "You cannot stay; why toil to hold your place?"]}, {"id": "B14.10.15", "lines": ["Do not bind hearts to this brief mortal stay,", "Lest grief should bleed your hearts when torn away."]}, {"id": "B14.10.16", "lines": ["Wise souls count neither day as good nor ill;", "Let wisdom be the soul’s companion still."]}, {"id": "B14.10.17", "lines": ["Even lords of crown and treasure must not bind", "Their hearts to this frail inn of humankind.”"]}, {"id": "B14.10.18", "lines": ["The troops replied, “Your word commands us all;", "Above the circling moon we hold your call."]}, {"id": "B14.10.19", "lines": ["With keen-edged swords we enter in the fray;", "Our name shall live until the Judgment Day.”"]}, {"id": "B14.10.20", "lines": ["The armies closed; a black cloud seemed to rise,", "As both sides pressed beneath the darkening skies."]}, {"id": "B14.10.21", "lines": ["That cloud rained shafts and swords upon the field;", "Earth was a sea of pitch, its face concealed."]}, {"id": "B14.10.22", "lines": ["Steel arrowheads and eagle-plumes in flight", "Obscured the sun and blackened all its light."]}, {"id": "B14.10.23", "lines": ["Through dust the spearheads flashed; their points on high", "Seemed staining all the stars with blood-red dye."]}, {"id": "B14.10.24", "lines": ["Ox-headed gorz then crashed on helms and bones;", "The sky seemed raining down a storm of stones."]}, {"id": "B14.10.25", "lines": ["The earth and dust were drenched with gore and brains;", "The helms were smashed on heads across the plains."]}, {"id": "B14.10.26", "lines": ["The diamond blades flashed fiercely overhead;", "A cloud arose whose rain fell crimson-red."]}, {"id": "B14.10.27", "lines": ["Old Gudarz said, “Since first my wars began,", "And I took arms to stand a fighting man,"]}, {"id": "B14.10.28", "lines": ["I never saw such slaughter on the plain,", "Nor heard the chiefs tell of so many slain."]}, {"id": "B14.10.29", "lines": ["The world is heaped with dead; amid these woes,", "One lies brought low, another takes repose.”"]}, {"id": "B14.11.1", "lines": ["Shangul came forth before the ranks and cried,", "“I conquer lions; battle is my pride."]}, {"id": "B14.11.2", "lines": ["Where is that Sagzi? Let him now appear;", "I will test my strong right arm against him here.”"]}, {"id": "B14.11.3", "lines": ["When Shangul’s voice reached Rostam, from his place", "He looked across the ranks and saw his face."]}, {"id": "B14.11.4", "lines": ["“To God I made this one, this sole request,", "In public and in secret, in my breast:"]}, {"id": "B14.11.5", "lines": ["That some bold foreign chief from this array", "Would call me forth and challenge me today."]}, {"id": "B14.11.6", "lines": ["No Hind or Saklab warrior shall stay;", "Blades wrought in Hind and Chin I sweep away.”"]}, {"id": "B14.11.7", "lines": ["He came to Shangul, calling out in scorn:", "“You low-born wretch, of shameful lineage born!"]}, {"id": "B14.11.8", "lines": ["Zal named me Rostam; why, you man of shame,", "Do you now call me by the Sagzi name?"]}, {"id": "B14.11.9", "lines": ["Then this Sagzi shall be your death today;", "Your jowshan, helm, shall shroud your lifeless clay.”"]}, {"id": "B14.11.10", "lines": ["He circled Shangul on the battleground,", "Between the two drawn ranks that hemmed them round."]}, {"id": "B14.11.11", "lines": ["One spear-thrust lifted Shangul from his steed,", "And dashed him headfirst down with force and speed."]}, {"id": "B14.11.12", "lines": ["He rode across him, yet no wound was made;", "Then lion-hearted Rostam drew his blade."]}, {"id": "B14.11.13", "lines": ["Then from the foe came warriors, blade in hand,", "With poison-tempered steel, a fighting band."]}, {"id": "B14.11.14", "lines": ["From Turan, Chin, and Hind, in close array,", "They charged the Pahlevan amid the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.11.15", "lines": ["They ringed Shangul and bore him from the fight,", "Beyond the raging lion’s reach and might."]}, {"id": "B14.11.16", "lines": ["Shangul escaped; his jowshan, fastened tight,", "Had kept his body free of wounds outright."]}, {"id": "B14.11.17", "lines": ["With careworn face, he wept in grief and pain,", "And sought the Khan of Chin across the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.11.18", "lines": ["“This is no man,” he said, “nor has he peer", "On earth; he makes the bravest shrink with fear."]}, {"id": "B14.11.19", "lines": ["A raging elephant on mountain height;", "We must advance against him with our might."]}, {"id": "B14.11.20", "lines": ["But let no warrior face that Dragon’s breath;", "No man alone can meet him save through death.”"]}, {"id": "B14.11.21", "lines": ["“This morning you employed another tone,”", "The Khan replied, and made his order known."]}, {"id": "B14.11.22", "lines": ["He bade the troops together take the field,", "Like moving mountains, ranks that would not yield."]}, {"id": "B14.11.23", "lines": ["“Surround him; close upon him, every side,", "And take his life,” the Khan of Chin then cried."]}, {"id": "B14.11.24", "lines": ["That lion drew his sword with furious might,", "And shattered Chin’s left wing amid the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.11.25", "lines": ["Each stroke he dealt left bodies on the ground,", "Their heads struck off and scattered all around."]}, {"id": "B14.11.26", "lines": ["No mountain could withstand his strength that day;", "No elephant could hold his wrath at bay."]}, {"id": "B14.11.27", "lines": ["The warriors crowded round the mighty one,", "So thick they darkened all the shining sun."]}, {"id": "B14.11.28", "lines": ["With spears and swords and shafts and gorz they cast,", "Against the chief who stood alone and fast."]}, {"id": "B14.11.29", "lines": ["He seemed to stand where thick-grown reeds were spread;", "The realm became one winepress running red."]}, {"id": "B14.11.30", "lines": ["At every blow he sliced through ten stout spears,", "And roared like angry lions in men’s ears."]}, {"id": "B14.11.31", "lines": ["Behind him came the warriors of Iran,", "With hearts for vengeance and their bright swords drawn."]}, {"id": "B14.11.32", "lines": ["With gorz and gopal, arrow-shaft and blade,", "They seemed to rain down hail through battle’s shade."]}, {"id": "B14.11.33", "lines": ["Corpses and hands and heads and crowns were thrown;", "The field with helms of slain men thickly sown."]}, {"id": "B14.11.34", "lines": ["High heaven seemed like earth through dust that day;", "On every side, swords cleft the dust away."]}, {"id": "B14.11.35", "lines": ["The troops of Chin and Shakn filled the view,", "With Hind and Saklab, Herat, Pahlav too."]}, {"id": "B14.11.36", "lines": ["So vast the army, moving in its course,", "That sea and mountain wearied at its force."]}, {"id": "B14.11.37", "lines": ["Then Piran told the Khan of Chin that day,", "“Rostam is a raging lion in the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.11.38", "lines": ["He cannot be resisted in this land;", "No leader like him lives or takes command."]}, {"id": "B14.11.39", "lines": ["Whoever tells this tale, no sage will hear", "And deem it true, so strange will it appear:"]}, {"id": "B14.11.40", "lines": ["A hundred thousand warriors known to fame", "Could not withstand one rider when he came."]}, {"id": "B14.11.41", "lines": ["This warrior is no merchant; yet they stand", "Before him, gathered here from every land."]}, {"id": "B14.11.42", "lines": ["This feud has brought Afrasiab deep grief;", "Where can he flee from Rostam for relief?"]}, {"id": "B14.11.43", "lines": ["When he inquires, blame falls upon each head;", "He will ask how this campaign was fought and led."]}, {"id": "B14.11.44", "lines": ["If you provoke his anger, none shall save", "Our heads from judgment or the waiting grave.”"]}, {"id": "B14.12.1", "lines": ["Said Rostam to Iran, “This fight today", "Has done us no great harm upon the way."]}, {"id": "B14.12.2", "lines": ["Now I will take from Chin both crowns and thrones,", "Their elephants and all the wealth Chin owns."]}, {"id": "B14.12.3", "lines": ["I shall give all to Iran’s noble line,", "And make this day with joy and glory shine."]}, {"id": "B14.12.4", "lines": ["Iran alone shall glory in this day;", "No other troops shall carry joy away."]}, {"id": "B14.12.5", "lines": ["I need no other helper at my side;", "God and the hooves of Rakhsh shall be my guide."]}, {"id": "B14.12.6", "lines": ["No man of Chin or Saklab shall remain,", "Nor any warrior from Shakn’s domain."]}, {"id": "B14.12.7", "lines": ["This is our day of triumph; heaven’s height", "Shall fire our army’s spirit for the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.12.8", "lines": ["Their evil deeds have marked them for their fall;", "The wrong they wrought brings ruin on them all."]}, {"id": "B14.12.9", "lines": ["If God gives strength, my shining Rakhsh shall show", "His mettle where the ranks of foemen flow."]}, {"id": "B14.12.10", "lines": ["This plain shall be a graveyard for the slain,", "And salt the soil to blight the fruitful grain."]}, {"id": "B14.12.11", "lines": ["Let one of you ride back to join our force;", "Strive hard, and match the wind upon its course."]}, {"id": "B14.12.12", "lines": ["When I advance, let cymbals clash and ring;", "Strike the daray; let all their voices sing."]}, {"id": "B14.12.13", "lines": ["Let riders’ dust turn all the open ground", "To ebony; let mighty koust resound."]}, {"id": "B14.12.14", "lines": ["Wield gopal; make the heavy gorz-head clang,", "As steel beneath the smith’s great hammer rang."]}, {"id": "B14.12.15", "lines": ["Fear not their countless ranks; raise dust on high", "From ocean’s waters to the clouded sky."]}, {"id": "B14.12.16", "lines": ["Cleave through the ranks of Chin and Saklab; raise", "The dust so thick it hides the sun’s bright blaze."]}, {"id": "B14.12.17", "lines": ["Watch well my helm, and when my war-cries rain,", "Charge hard across the dark and shaken plain.”"]}, {"id": "B14.12.18", "lines": ["Then, like a raging elephant, he sped,", "Ox-headed gorz uplifted overhead."]}, {"id": "B14.12.19", "lines": ["He sought the foemen’s right and Kundur found,", "And routed all that wing across the ground."]}, {"id": "B14.12.20", "lines": ["Full many heads and helmets strewed the plain,", "Torn from the bodies of the warriors slain."]}, {"id": "B14.12.21", "lines": ["Then Sava, proud kinsman of Kamus, came,", "With high ambition none could curb or tame."]}, {"id": "B14.12.22", "lines": ["An Indian sword was ready in his hand;", "He came to fight where Rostam took his stand."]}, {"id": "B14.12.23", "lines": ["He circled to the left, then to the right,", "And sought revenge for Kamus in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.12.24", "lines": ["“O mighty elephant,” he cried, “now mark", "A Nile-wave rising, terrible and dark."]}, {"id": "B14.12.25", "lines": ["I shall avenge Kamus; this fight shall be", "The last such battle you shall ever see.”"]}, {"id": "B14.12.26", "lines": ["When Sava’s words reached Rostam in the fray,", "He drew his heavy gorz without delay."]}, {"id": "B14.12.27", "lines": ["He struck the warrior’s head with all his might;", "In agony, his spirit took its flight."]}, {"id": "B14.12.28", "lines": ["He rode his Rakhsh across him on the ground;", "Of Sava, not a trace could then be found."]}, {"id": "B14.12.29", "lines": ["The Kashani standard tumbled to the plain;", "The army’s heart was wrung with fear and pain."]}, {"id": "B14.12.30", "lines": ["No man remained to face him in the fray;", "He drew fruit from the thorns and barren clay."]}, {"id": "B14.13.1", "lines": ["Then Rostam left the right and onward sped", "Toward the left; the army shook with dread."]}, {"id": "B14.13.2", "lines": ["Gahar of Gahan stood among the band,", "A lion-man with black flag in his hand."]}, {"id": "B14.13.3", "lines": ["He saw great Rostam’s helm; his anger grew", "As though it tore his very soul in two."]}, {"id": "B14.13.4", "lines": ["“For Chin and all Turan, revenge is due;", "Before these ranks, I strike this Sagzi through."]}, {"id": "B14.13.5", "lines": ["Among the chiefs, this combat falls to me;", "My heavy gorz shall set our army free.”"]}, {"id": "B14.13.6", "lines": ["He spurred to meet the Pahlevan in fight,", "And left the army’s ranks to claim his right."]}, {"id": "B14.13.7", "lines": ["But when he saw the mighty warrior near,", "He turned away and shunned the fight in fear."]}, {"id": "B14.13.8", "lines": ["He thought, “Gahar, you know how battles go;", "Kamus himself could not withstand this foe."]}, {"id": "B14.13.9", "lines": ["To flee while still alive, and save one’s head", "Is better than to fall beneath his tread.”"]}, {"id": "B14.13.10", "lines": ["He fled to central ranks, his fear revealed,", "While all the army watched his courage yield."]}, {"id": "B14.13.11", "lines": ["Rostam’s great standard rose above the fight,", "A tree upon a mountain’s utmost height."]}, {"id": "B14.13.12", "lines": ["He followed Gahar, dust-like, as he flew;", "Earth glowed like ruby, air turned lapis-blue."]}, {"id": "B14.13.13", "lines": ["He speared him, pierced the girdle of his foe,", "And tore his khaftan and fastenings with the blow."]}, {"id": "B14.13.14", "lines": ["He flung him like a leaf torn from its tree", "By mighty winds that strike and wrench it free."]}, {"id": "B14.13.15", "lines": ["He overturned the flag of darkened blue,", "As though Gahar were one earth never knew."]}, {"id": "B14.13.16", "lines": ["Iran’s men saw that deed on left and right,", "The dust of battle rose and veiled the light."]}, {"id": "B14.13.17", "lines": ["They brought the koust and glorious standard near;", "Gudarz and Tus, the noble chiefs, were here."]}, {"id": "B14.13.18", "lines": ["Iran’s central ranks cried out with delight", "To hail their champion, victor in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.13.19", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “Send riders to my side,", "A hundred men of name, renowned and tried."]}, {"id": "B14.13.20", "lines": ["I will take their elephants and ivory throne,", "Their armlets, gorz, torques, and crowns as my own."]}, {"id": "B14.13.21", "lines": ["These gifts from Chin shall grace Iran’s great king;", "Before our glorious Shah these spoils I bring.”"]}, {"id": "B14.13.22", "lines": ["A thousand men of Iran reached the field,", "In jowshan, each an ox-head gorz to wield."]}, {"id": "B14.13.23", "lines": ["Then Rostam cried to stir revenge’s breath,", "And gird their hearts for battle and for death:"]}, {"id": "B14.13.24", "lines": ["“By sun and moon, our Shah’s life and his head,", "By Siavash’s dust, the honored dead,"]}, {"id": "B14.13.25", "lines": ["If any warrior from this battle flee", "Before the ranks of Chin, beware of me!"]}, {"id": "B14.13.26", "lines": ["He shall know bonds, the pit, and gibbet’s shame;", "These are the sole rewards that he may claim."]}, {"id": "B14.13.27", "lines": ["And on his head a paper cap shall show", "The shame of one who fled before the foe.”"]}, {"id": "B14.13.28", "lines": ["The troops knew Rostam’s lion appetite,", "That longed to claw the stag’s haunch in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.13.29", "lines": ["They turned toward the Khan with hearts in pain,", "Their chief intent on the crown he would gain."]}, {"id": "B14.13.30", "lines": ["The mighty chief charged forward in the fray,", "And gave fleet Rakhsh the rein to lead the way."]}, {"id": "B14.13.31", "lines": ["Blood spurted upward to the moon’s domain;", "The stars looked down upon the battle plain."]}, {"id": "B14.13.32", "lines": ["So much dust rose from all that fighting ground", "That no one saw the plain that lay around."]}, {"id": "B14.13.33", "lines": ["With horsemen’s shouts and lances’ heavy sound,", "No rein or stirrup could be seen or found."]}, {"id": "B14.13.34", "lines": ["The sun seemed torn apart before their sight;", "Earth groaned beneath the horses’ crushing might."]}, {"id": "B14.13.35", "lines": ["The air grew black as any Zangi’s face;", "No road remained across the corpse-strewn place."]}, {"id": "B14.13.36", "lines": ["Khaftans, helms, and bodies filled the battleground;", "Heads bade farewell to bodies all around."]}, {"id": "B14.13.37", "lines": ["The cloud of horsemen’s dust blew through the air;", "The clash of steel rang out from everywhere."]}, {"id": "B14.13.38", "lines": ["For name and honor, many chiefs were slain;", "They gave their heads upon the battle plain."]}, {"id": "B14.13.39", "lines": ["Then Rostam roared above the battle’s toil;", "It seemed the world itself began to boil."]}, {"id": "B14.13.40", "lines": ["“Elephants, bracelets, and the ivory throne,", "Crowns, diadems, and torques shall be our own."]}, {"id": "B14.13.41", "lines": ["In Iran they shall grace Kay Khosrow’s state,", "Our youthful Shah, victorious and great."]}, {"id": "B14.13.42", "lines": ["What use have you for crown and farr and pride,", "With all your skill and strength upon your side?"]}, {"id": "B14.13.43", "lines": ["Hold out your hands for bonds; let each man stand", "With waist surrendered to the curved kamand."]}, {"id": "B14.13.44", "lines": ["Then to the king of earth I send you all;", "Manshur and Khan of Chin alike shall fall."]}, {"id": "B14.13.45", "lines": ["I grant you life, and nothing else beside;", "Your crowns and signets pass to Iran’s side."]}, {"id": "B14.13.46", "lines": ["Or else beneath my horses’ hooves this plain", "Shall send its dust into the moon’s domain.”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.1", "lines": ["The Khan let loose his tongue, his anger flamed:", "“Base miscreant, in soul and body shamed!"]}, {"id": "B14.14.2", "lines": ["Cursed be Iran, its Shah, its whole array;", "You need my mercy on this battle day."]}, {"id": "B14.14.3", "lines": ["You Sagzi, vilest creature of the earth,", "Would make Chin’s king a soldier, stripped of worth?”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.4", "lines": ["A grievous rain of arrows filled the air,", "Like autumn winds that strip a tree laid bare."]}, {"id": "B14.14.5", "lines": ["The air was clothed with plumes from eagle-wings;", "No warrior dreamed of such embattled things."]}, {"id": "B14.14.6", "lines": ["Gudarz beheld that diamond rain with dread,", "Alarmed for Rostam’s safety there, and said"]}, {"id": "B14.14.7", "lines": ["To Rohham: “Laggard, hurry to his aid;", "Lead two hundred horsemen, all well arrayed."]}, {"id": "B14.14.8", "lines": ["With bows of Chakh and khadang shafts attack;", "Guard peerless Rostam’s battle-hardened back.”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.9", "lines": ["Then he told Giv, “Bring all our forces round;", "Let foes no longer linger on this ground."]}, {"id": "B14.14.10", "lines": ["No time for rest or counsel here today,", "Nor dressing ranks in order for the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.14.11", "lines": ["Advance toward the right wing with the band;", "Find where Piran and Houman make their stand."]}, {"id": "B14.14.12", "lines": ["May blessing never fall upon that clan;", "On vengeance’s day, a curse is all they plan."]}, {"id": "B14.14.13", "lines": ["Mark how before the Khan great Rostam’s blow", "Hurls heaven down to earth, and lays it low.”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.14", "lines": ["Rohham sprang like a leopard, fierce and fast,", "And guarded Rostam’s rear as arrows passed."]}, {"id": "B14.14.15", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “I fear my Rakhsh is spent;", "On foot, in blood and sweat, I will not relent."]}, {"id": "B14.14.16", "lines": ["This army swarms like ants and locusts; save", "The elephants and drivers from the grave."]}, {"id": "B14.14.17", "lines": ["As gifts to Kay Khosrow these all shall go,", "New gifts from Shingan and from Chin, our foe.”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.18", "lines": ["He cried, “May dark and faithless Ahriman", "Be wed to Chin and all of Turkistan!"]}, {"id": "B14.14.19", "lines": ["You luckless men, how wretched is your plight,", "All steeped in grief and sorrow in this fight!"]}, {"id": "B14.14.20", "lines": ["Have you not heard of Rostam’s name before?", "Does wisdom dwell within your minds no more?"]}, {"id": "B14.14.21", "lines": ["No dragon is to him a worthy foe;", "He seeks out elephants his strength to show."]}, {"id": "B14.14.22", "lines": ["Are you not weary of this fight? My hoard", "Holds only gifts of gorz and of the sword.”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.23", "lines": ["He loosed the kamand from his saddle’s side,", "And on the pommel laid the coiled rawhide."]}, {"id": "B14.14.24", "lines": ["He urged his charger on; a shout arose", "To split a dragon’s ear among his foes."]}, {"id": "B14.14.25", "lines": ["Wherever Rostam drove his steed around,", "He swept the warriors from the battleground."]}, {"id": "B14.14.26", "lines": ["He craved the fight with Chin, his brow a frown,", "The rawhide on his arm to drag men down."]}, {"id": "B14.14.27", "lines": ["Whenever Rostam in that raging fight", "Unhorsed a chieftain with his kamand’s bite,"]}, {"id": "B14.14.28", "lines": ["Tus made the karnays and the koust ring high,", "Until their thunder climbed the shaken sky."]}, {"id": "B14.14.29", "lines": ["Iranian hands bound every captive tight", "And led him from the plain toward the height."]}, {"id": "B14.14.30", "lines": ["Then from his elephant the Khan looked down,", "And saw earth like the Nile in flood around."]}, {"id": "B14.14.31", "lines": ["Rostam, an elephant upon a hill,", "Held heroes in his kamand, bound and still."]}, {"id": "B14.14.32", "lines": ["From black clouds he brought vultures to the fray,", "While stars and moon looked on that grim display."]}, {"id": "B14.14.33", "lines": ["Then from his army Chin’s great Khan now chose", "A chief who knew the language of his foes."]}, {"id": "B14.14.34", "lines": ["He said, “Approach that lion-man and say:", "‘Restrain your wrath; fight less fiercely today."]}, {"id": "B14.14.35", "lines": ["From Chin and Shakn, Chaghan and Wahr they came;", "They bear no hatred and pursue no claim."]}, {"id": "B14.14.36", "lines": ["The kings of Chin and Khatlan stand apart;", "Against these strangers, no feud fills your heart."]}, {"id": "B14.14.37", "lines": ["It lies with Afrasiab, of judgment dire;", "He cannot tell mere water from a fire."]}, {"id": "B14.14.38", "lines": ["He roused the world and drew upon his head", "The evil harvest of the war he spread."]}, {"id": "B14.14.39", "lines": ["We all seek honor and a lasting name,", "Yet peace is better than the sword’s red flame.’”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.40", "lines": ["With fluent tongue and guileful heart he came,", "To Rostam, warrior of boundless fame."]}, {"id": "B14.14.41", "lines": ["He said, “O chief, now let the fighting cease;", "Turn from the field to feasting and to peace."]}, {"id": "B14.14.42", "lines": ["You bear Chin’s Khan no grudge, no ancient feud;", "No former wrong should see your wrath renewed."]}, {"id": "B14.14.43", "lines": ["Withdraw as he withdraws; the war is spent;", "And let your army’s fighting now relent."]}, {"id": "B14.14.44", "lines": ["For by your hand the great Kamus was slain;", "The chiefs no longer seek the battle plain.”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.45", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered, “Bring the ivory throne,", "The elephants and crown, to be my own."]}, {"id": "B14.14.46", "lines": ["He set his face toward Iran for spoil;", "Why flatter now, when all his schemes recoil?"]}, {"id": "B14.14.47", "lines": ["He knows his band lies helpless in my hand,", "While I restrain my own at my command."]}, {"id": "B14.14.48", "lines": ["I spare his head, but crown and throne are mine,", "The elephant, the torque, the royal sign.”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.49", "lines": ["The envoy said, “Do not divide the prey", "Before the running gazelle comes your way."]}, {"id": "B14.14.50", "lines": ["The plain is full of elephants and men;", "Who has crown, wealth, and grandeur like him then?"]}, {"id": "B14.14.51", "lines": ["Who knows the outcome of this bitter day,", "Or who leaves victor from the bloody fray?”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.52", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, he spurred on Rakhsh and cried,", "“I conquer lions; crowns I now divide."]}, {"id": "B14.14.53", "lines": ["I stand, strong-bodied, kamand on my arm;", "What use are counsels now, or guileful charm?"]}, {"id": "B14.14.54", "lines": ["Chin’s Khan is to my kamand what, in fight,", "A lion is to my hand’s binding might.”"]}, {"id": "B14.14.55", "lines": ["He flung the coiled kamand; its rawhide passed", "Around the envoy’s waist and held him fast."]}, {"id": "B14.14.56", "lines": ["He neared the white elephant in the fray;", "The Khan’s last hope of life then slipped away."]}, {"id": "B14.14.57", "lines": ["Then Rostam, son of Zal, drew back his hand", "And cast upon the Khan his raw kamand."]}, {"id": "B14.14.58", "lines": ["The rawhide left his hand and circled round", "The Khan’s proud head, within its coils now bound."]}, {"id": "B14.14.59", "lines": ["He hauled him down and dashed him to the ground;", "The Khan of Chin’s two arms were tightly wound."]}, {"id": "B14.14.60", "lines": ["To River Shahd he drove him, stripped of pride,", "On foot; no crown, throne, mahd, or beast to ride."]}, {"id": "B14.14.61", "lines": ["The guards of Tus received him; koust rang high;", "Their thunder rose toward the wheeling sky."]}, {"id": "B14.14.62", "lines": ["This fickle world forever turns its way,", "Now lifts us high, now casts our hopes away."]}, {"id": "B14.14.63", "lines": ["So long as heaven wheels above our sight,", "Now vengeance, poison; now love’s sweet delight."]}, {"id": "B14.14.64", "lines": ["You lift one from the dust to heaven’s light,", "And cast a king down, wretched in his plight."]}, {"id": "B14.14.65", "lines": ["Not love for one nor hatred for the rest;", "Creator of the world, You know it best."]}, {"id": "B14.14.66", "lines": ["You are its height and depth; I cannot know", "What You are; all is You, both high and low."]}, {"id": "B14.14.67", "lines": ["From You come joy and grief; one has excess,", "Another lives in want and has far less."]}, {"id": "B14.14.68", "lines": ["You raise one to a throne; one You consign", "To fishes in the depths of ocean’s brine."]}, {"id": "B14.14.69", "lines": ["You gave to one; now give the other, then;", "Set no hatred between two noble men."]}, {"id": "B14.15.1", "lines": ["Then peerless Rostam raised his gorz to strike,", "And spared not one; he struck them all alike."]}, {"id": "B14.15.2", "lines": ["The field was packed so close that ant and gnat", "Could scarcely stir across the crowded flat."]}, {"id": "B14.15.3", "lines": ["Blood streamed from wounded men and from the slain,", "One headless, one flung headlong on the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.15.4", "lines": ["When fortune failed the foe near fall of night,", "Their once-bright star grew dark and lost its light."]}, {"id": "B14.15.5", "lines": ["A black wind rose; a cloud spread through the sky,", "And hid the sun and moon from every eye."]}, {"id": "B14.15.6", "lines": ["The foe knew neither head nor foot; they fled", "Through desert lands, a long road stretched ahead."]}, {"id": "B14.15.7", "lines": ["Piran beheld the fight; the circling glow", "Of sun and moon grew dark above the foe:"]}, {"id": "B14.15.8", "lines": ["Manshur, Fartus, Chin’s Khan, that mighty band,", "Those veteran chiefs who held the high command."]}, {"id": "B14.15.9", "lines": ["He saw their fallen standards on the plain,", "The wounded in the dust, brought low by pain."]}, {"id": "B14.15.10", "lines": ["To Nastihan and Kulbad came his cry:", "“Put every zhupin, every khanjar by.”"]}, {"id": "B14.15.11", "lines": ["The army’s standard fell to earth; they fled,", "And left the field, a trembling troop, in dread."]}, {"id": "B14.15.12", "lines": ["Giv ravaged all the right wing in that rout;", "Like francolin’s plumes, vale and plain spread out."]}, {"id": "B14.15.13", "lines": ["Giv searched the army’s left and right to know", "Where he might find Piran amid the foe."]}, {"id": "B14.15.14", "lines": ["They did not find him; back the warriors sped", "To mighty Rostam, with his high-held head."]}, {"id": "B14.15.15", "lines": ["The war-steeds faltered, spent from battle’s strain;", "All worn and wounded, sore with toil and pain."]}, {"id": "B14.15.16", "lines": ["The troops moved mountainward, their hearts restored;", "Great Rostam led them, honored as their lord."]}, {"id": "B14.15.17", "lines": ["Their helms and jowshan were drenched in dust and gore;", "The horses’ armor gaped where battle tore."]}, {"id": "B14.15.18", "lines": ["Their bodies ached, their hearts with triumph burned;", "Such is the way the wheel of fortune turned."]}, {"id": "B14.15.19", "lines": ["So masked with blood and dust, no friend knew friend,", "Till washing brought confusion to an end."]}, {"id": "B14.15.20", "lines": ["Breasts, feet, swords, stirrups, all were stained with gore;", "The slain concealed both hill and valley floor."]}, {"id": "B14.15.21", "lines": ["They washed their heads and bodies of the stains;", "Their hearts were cleansed, their foes in heavy chains."]}, {"id": "B14.16.1", "lines": ["“Disarm,” said Rostam to the Iranian band;", "“Unbelt yourselves; lay weapons from your hand."]}, {"id": "B14.16.2", "lines": ["Before the Conqueror, no gopal we wield;", "We need no arrows there, nor any shield."]}, {"id": "B14.16.3", "lines": ["Bow all your heads to dust upon the ground;", "Then rise, and let each noble head be crowned."]}, {"id": "B14.16.4", "lines": ["No chieftain from our ranks has died today,", "For whom our hearts should mourn in dark array."]}, {"id": "B14.16.5", "lines": ["When tidings reached the Shah, he told me then,", "In public and in private, of our men:"]}, {"id": "B14.16.6", "lines": ["‘Tus sought the mountain with his weary band,", "Defeated by Piran and Houman’s hand.’"]}, {"id": "B14.16.7", "lines": ["The Shah’s words shook my mind; my senses fled,", "And battle’s fury seethed within my head."]}, {"id": "B14.16.8", "lines": ["For brave Gudarz, Bahram, and Rivniz too,", "My heart took on dark shiz-wood’s sable hue."]}, {"id": "B14.16.9", "lines": ["I sped from Iran, casting off delay,", "Intent on battle and the warlike way."]}, {"id": "B14.16.10", "lines": ["But when I saw the Khan and men of name,", "The warriors and the chiefs of lofty fame,"]}, {"id": "B14.16.11", "lines": ["Especially Kamus, his grace and height,", "His shoulders, limbs, great hands, and gorz of might,"]}, {"id": "B14.16.12", "lines": ["Then I thought: surely now my time is done;", "My day has reached its darkened setting sun."]}, {"id": "B14.16.13", "lines": ["Since first I girded on my battle gear,", "I have seen no more troops or arms than here."]}, {"id": "B14.16.14", "lines": ["I reached Mazandaran, the Divs’ domain,", "Where nights were black and massive gorz held reign."]}, {"id": "B14.16.15", "lines": ["Yet never did my heart in courage fail,", "Nor did I think that death would soon prevail."]}, {"id": "B14.16.16", "lines": ["But in this war my days were plunged in gloom;", "My world-bright heart was darkened toward its doom."]}, {"id": "B14.16.17", "lines": ["If now we roll in sorrow in the dust", "Before all-holy God, the act is just."]}, {"id": "B14.16.18", "lines": ["He gave us strength, high fortune, battle won,", "Our favored lot from Saturn and the sun."]}, {"id": "B14.16.19", "lines": ["May fortune never turn against our might;", "May fear not darken any heart with night."]}, {"id": "B14.16.20", "lines": ["Now send the tidings swiftly to the throne;", "Let Kay Khosrow rejoice among his own."]}, {"id": "B14.16.21", "lines": ["Let him adorn his court; upon his brow", "Let him set fast the royal circlet now."]}, {"id": "B14.16.22", "lines": ["Let gifts enrich the poor from his great store;", "May blessings on his soul rise evermore."]}, {"id": "B14.16.23", "lines": ["Now put your battle dress aside, and wear", "The garb of ease; let rest replace your care."]}, {"id": "B14.16.24", "lines": ["For grief and longing surely pass away,", "And fate counts every breath from day to day."]}, {"id": "B14.16.25", "lines": ["Yet it is good to count the cups of wine,", "And shun the loveless heavens’ cold design."]}, {"id": "B14.16.26", "lines": ["So drink till midnight; speak of God again,", "And of the mighty deeds of mighty men."]}, {"id": "B14.16.27", "lines": ["The Conqueror gives manhood, fortune, might;", "Give thanks to Him for prowess in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.16.28", "lines": ["We should not give our hearts too much to grief,", "Nor toil within this fleeting world so brief.”"]}, {"id": "B14.16.29", "lines": ["The nobles blessed him: “May the crown we bear", "And signet never lack your strength and care."]}, {"id": "B14.16.30", "lines": ["Who has great Rostam serving in his train", "Holds his head higher than the stars’ domain."]}, {"id": "B14.16.31", "lines": ["You know what love for us has made you do;", "May heaven now rejoice because of you."]}, {"id": "B14.16.32", "lines": ["We were as good as slain; our days were done,", "But now through you we live beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "B14.16.33", "lines": ["All honor to the stock, the native worth,", "And mother who gave such a hero birth.”"]}, {"id": "B14.16.34", "lines": ["Then he commanded elephants be brought,", "With ivory throne, crown, torques in fine gold wrought."]}, {"id": "B14.16.35", "lines": ["He brought forth royal wine and goblets bright,", "And drank first to Kay Khosrow’s crown and might."]}, {"id": "B14.16.36", "lines": ["From elephant-back came the karnay’s call;", "For several mil its sound spread over all."]}, {"id": "B14.16.37", "lines": ["When wine had made his heart and spirit gay,", "The nobles parted joyful on their way."]}, {"id": "B14.16.38", "lines": ["When the moon tore the robe of night apart,", "And set her turquoise throne in heaven’s heart,"]}, {"id": "B14.16.39", "lines": ["The scouts dispersed around the plain that night;", "The darkness lingered, then gave way to light."]}, {"id": "B14.16.40", "lines": ["When night’s rust passed and day’s bright falchion gleamed,", "The earth like ruby in the daylight beamed."]}, {"id": "B14.16.41", "lines": ["The parda-saray’s tabira rang high;", "The chiefs rose up; then came great Rostam’s cry:"]}, {"id": "B14.16.42", "lines": ["“No trace of wise Piran has met our eyes;", "Return now to the field beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "B14.16.43", "lines": ["Send out the troops to seek him everywhere;", "Search all the field; lay every hiding bare.”"]}, {"id": "B14.16.44", "lines": ["Bijan the lion-man went on his way,", "To where the armies fought the former day."]}, {"id": "B14.16.45", "lines": ["He saw a world of corpses, wealth displayed,", "And seats on every side, still richly laid."]}, {"id": "B14.16.46", "lines": ["The land was strewn with wounded men around,", "Flung down upon the earth, in fetters bound."]}, {"id": "B14.16.47", "lines": ["No living foe stood free upon the ground;", "The tents and parda-saray could be found."]}, {"id": "B14.16.48", "lines": ["Then bitter news reached Rostam from the plain:", "“The land is empty of the Turkish train.”"]}, {"id": "B14.16.49", "lines": ["Like raging lion, Rostam’s anger stirred", "At Iran’s sleep and slackness, as he heard."]}, {"id": "B14.16.50", "lines": ["He cursed their slackness and reviled them all:", "“Has no man wisdom when such chances call?"]}, {"id": "B14.16.51", "lines": ["When two great mountains hemmed our foemen in,", "How could they flee from us through dust and din?"]}, {"id": "B14.16.52", "lines": ["Did I not say, ‘Send scouts before the force,", "And guard each gorge and valley on our course?’"]}, {"id": "B14.16.53", "lines": ["You thought of ease and rest; your foes planned flight,", "And made their preparations through the night."]}, {"id": "B14.16.54", "lines": ["Slack bodies reap but misery and pain,", "While toil brings treasure, hardship turns to gain."]}, {"id": "B14.16.55", "lines": ["When you would say, ‘We rest from toil and strain,’", "Fear for Iran will burn within each vein.”"]}, {"id": "B14.16.56", "lines": ["Then leopard-like he raged at Tus and said:", "“Is this a field of war or cushioned bed?"]}, {"id": "B14.16.57", "lines": ["Look to Piran and Houman in the fight,", "To Kulbad, Ruyin, Pulad and their might."]}, {"id": "B14.16.58", "lines": ["From now on, with your own men take your stand;", "You in one realm, I in another land."]}, {"id": "B14.16.59", "lines": ["If you have strength, then fight with your own men;", "How will you bring me to your aid again?"]}, {"id": "B14.16.60", "lines": ["I gained the victory; its fruit is lost,", "By slackness scattered at Iran’s own cost."]}, {"id": "B14.16.61", "lines": ["See now from what troops all the scouts were drawn,", "And who commanded them before the dawn."]}, {"id": "B14.16.62", "lines": ["When that same sentry of the watch is found,", "Beat feet and hands with sticks upon the ground."]}, {"id": "B14.16.63", "lines": ["Strip all he has, then bind him foot to foot;", "And on an elephant let him be put."]}, {"id": "B14.16.64", "lines": ["Send him before the Shah; there let him learn", "Obedience, and from his errors turn."]}, {"id": "B14.16.65", "lines": ["The ivory thrones, the jewels, dinars of gold,", "Diba, crowns, coronets, the spoils we hold;"]}, {"id": "B14.16.66", "lines": ["Ask who among our troops holds spoils today;", "Bring all their captured wealth without delay."]}, {"id": "B14.16.67", "lines": ["For many kings had gathered on this plain,", "Most famed in all the world for might and reign."]}, {"id": "B14.16.68", "lines": ["From Chin, from Saklab, Hind and Wahr they came,", "Rich conquerors of cities, high in fame."]}, {"id": "B14.16.69", "lines": ["First choose a worthy present for the throne,", "Then share my portion fairly with your own.”"]}, {"id": "B14.16.70", "lines": ["Tus and his warriors gathered from the ground", "The scattered wealth the battle left around."]}, {"id": "B14.16.71", "lines": ["Gold girdles, turquoise crowns, and bracelets’ sheen", "With diba by the ivory throne were seen."]}, {"id": "B14.16.72", "lines": ["Bargostvans, arrows, bows, and gopal lay", "With Indian blades, the spoils of that fierce day."]}, {"id": "B14.16.73", "lines": ["Between two mountains rose a third, so high;", "The troops stood round and gazed with wondering eye."]}, {"id": "B14.16.74", "lines": ["Had any archer, broad of chest and frame,", "A valiant rider of illustrious fame,"]}, {"id": "B14.16.75", "lines": ["Shot a four-feathered arrow through that store,", "Its flight would fail to reach the farther shore."]}, {"id": "B14.16.76", "lines": ["When Rostam saw the spoils, amazed he stood,", "And called upon the Maker, wise and good:"]}, {"id": "B14.16.77", "lines": ["“Our life is fleeting, ever taking flight;", "It brings us now a feast, and now a fight."]}, {"id": "B14.16.78", "lines": ["It gives with curses now, then blessings bright;", "Wealth passes hand to hand, and none holds tight."]}, {"id": "B14.16.79", "lines": ["One gathers treasure, tending it with toil;", "Another comes to savor all the spoil."]}, {"id": "B14.16.80", "lines": ["Kamus had wished, and Chin’s great Khan the same,", "To set the land of Iran all aflame."]}, {"id": "B14.16.81", "lines": ["With elephants and wealth in proud array,", "With troops and treasure ready for the fray,"]}, {"id": "B14.16.82", "lines": ["Their wealth and swarming armies made them glad;", "No thought of God in all that time they had."]}, {"id": "B14.16.83", "lines": ["He made the heavens, earth, and time’s long tide,", "All things revealed, and all that shadows hide."]}, {"id": "B14.16.84", "lines": ["Know all from God; give thanks for all His aid;", "In Him the good man’s faithful trust is laid."]}, {"id": "B14.16.85", "lines": ["From Him we had our strength, our glory bright;", "From Him all benefit and all things right."]}, {"id": "B14.16.86", "lines": ["An army stood, their wealth arrayed in gold;", "Yet all their counsels strayed from paths of old."]}, {"id": "B14.16.87", "lines": ["Now from each country’s chiefs I choose the best,", "A leader from each land, above the rest."]}, {"id": "B14.16.88", "lines": ["On elephants I send them to his care,", "With golden thrones and golden crowns to bear."]}, {"id": "B14.16.89", "lines": ["On rutting hiyuns goods shall fill the road,", "The choicest gifts from all this captured load."]}, {"id": "B14.16.90", "lines": ["Then I myself will spur to Gang my steed;", "Delay ill suits a man of noble deed."]}, {"id": "B14.16.91", "lines": ["To let the guilty, men of blood, remain", "Within the land is weakness, clear and plain."]}, {"id": "B14.16.92", "lines": ["First with my blade I will cleanse the world of wrong;", "No wicked man shall stand secure for long."]}, {"id": "B14.16.93", "lines": ["I will bring idolaters’ heads to dust,", "And show all men God’s way, the true and just.”"]}, {"id": "B14.16.94", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “O chief of judgment true,", "While place endures, may life endure for you."]}, {"id": "B14.16.95", "lines": ["Be glad and generous; in this great fray,", "You dealt out justice as was right today.”"]}, {"id": "B14.16.96", "lines": ["Then matchless Rostam chose a herald tried,", "Whom Kay Khosrow knew well, close at his side."]}, {"id": "B14.16.97", "lines": ["He chose out Fariborz, Kavus’s son,", "Whose nearness to the Shah made him the one."]}, {"id": "B14.16.98", "lines": ["He said, “Famed chief, born of a royal line,", "A prince yourself, whose kingly virtues shine,"]}, {"id": "B14.16.99", "lines": ["Accomplished, wise, of noble birth, you bear", "A joy your followers are glad to share."]}, {"id": "B14.16.100", "lines": ["Take up this task; go bear to our young king", "My letter, with the tidings it will bring."]}, {"id": "B14.16.101", "lines": ["Take all the hiyuns, all the wealth we gained,", "And with you lead the captives we have chained."]}, {"id": "B14.16.102", "lines": ["Take coronets and bracelets; let the train", "Bear gorz, crowns and the trophies of this plain."]}, {"id": "B14.16.103", "lines": ["Take with you, too, the elephants we own,", "And carry to the Shah each ivory throne.”"]}, {"id": "B14.16.104", "lines": ["Fariborz said, “I stand prepared to ride;", "Fierce lion, for the road my belt is tied.”"]}, {"id": "B14.17.1", "lines": ["Then Rostam called a practiced scribe to write,", "And spoke the words the letter would recite."]}, {"id": "B14.17.2", "lines": ["On parniyan, with ambergris, they penned", "The royal words their chief wished now to send."]}, {"id": "B14.17.3", "lines": ["He first praised God, whose being knows no end,", "Whom passing years can neither change nor bend."]}, {"id": "B14.17.4", "lines": ["He fashioned sun and moon and Saturn’s light,", "The source of farr and crown and kingly might."]}, {"id": "B14.17.5", "lines": ["He fashioned heaven, earth, and time’s whole span;", "Created soul and wisdom, faith in man."]}, {"id": "B14.17.6", "lines": ["May God preserve the Shah in life and fame,", "May time not hold him merely as a name."]}, {"id": "B14.17.7", "lines": ["“I came between two mountains as you bade;", "The troops of three great realms were there arrayed."]}, {"id": "B14.17.8", "lines": ["More than a hundred thousand faced our band,", "Each armed for battle, scimitar in hand."]}, {"id": "B14.17.9", "lines": ["From Kashan, Shakn, from Chin and Hind they came,", "From Chin to Indus stretched their ranks of fame."]}, {"id": "B14.17.10", "lines": ["From Kashmir to Mount Shahd’s foot, our own eyes", "Saw tents and elephants and mahds arise."]}, {"id": "B14.17.11", "lines": ["I did not fear the troops of great renown;", "Beneath the Shah’s fortune, I struck them down."]}, {"id": "B14.17.12", "lines": ["For forty days we fought, blow after blow;", "The world seemed all too narrow for the foe."]}, {"id": "B14.17.13", "lines": ["They all were kings; their crowns and thrones shone bright,", "With diadems, the emblems of their might."]}, {"id": "B14.17.14", "lines": ["Between those mountains, over pass and plain,", "Blood and the slain choke every road and lane."]}, {"id": "B14.17.15", "lines": ["For forty farsangs, in truth, the soil is clay", "Kneaded with blood from all that long affray."]}, {"id": "B14.17.16", "lines": ["To tell the whole would make this letter long,", "So much has followed from your fortune strong."]}, {"id": "B14.17.17", "lines": ["The kings in bonds I took with my own hand,", "From elephant-back, by my coiled kamand."]}, {"id": "B14.17.18", "lines": ["I send them to the Shah with spoils of war,", "With kingly jewels, treasures by the score;"]}, {"id": "B14.17.19", "lines": ["Toward Gang I turn and set my chosen course;", "Perhaps Gurvi will face my heavy gorz."]}, {"id": "B14.17.20", "lines": ["May heaven’s turning sphere become your ground,", "And all the world with praise of you resound.”"]}, {"id": "B14.17.21", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, gave it with all speed", "To Fariborz, a prince of royal seed."]}, {"id": "B14.17.22", "lines": ["With captive kings and elephants arrayed,", "On three thousand hiyuns all the spoil was laid."]}, {"id": "B14.17.23", "lines": ["So Fariborz, the son of Kavus, rode", "Rejoicing swiftly on the homeward road."]}, {"id": "B14.17.24", "lines": ["The elephantine hero and his band", "Of chiefs rode with him onward through the land."]}, {"id": "B14.17.25", "lines": ["He clasped the prince, then left the royal train,", "While from the prince’s eyes tears fell like rain."]}, {"id": "B14.17.26", "lines": ["Then Rostam, as night’s two curled locks grew black,", "Departed for his lines along the track."]}, {"id": "B14.17.27", "lines": ["They sat with harp and wine and minstrelsy,", "The fortunate chiefs gathered in revelry."]}, {"id": "B14.17.28", "lines": ["Till all departed, full of joy and rest,", "Each to his place, with pleasure in his breast."]}, {"id": "B14.17.29", "lines": ["The sun, gold as a dinar, rose in might,", "And rent the lapis curtain with its light."]}, {"id": "B14.17.30", "lines": ["The karnay blared; the camp rang with its roar;", "It sounded from the parda-saray’s door."]}, {"id": "B14.17.31", "lines": ["Matchless Rostam drew his riding girdle tight,", "And mounted Rakhsh, prepared to lead the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.17.32", "lines": ["He bade the soldiers load both stores and grain;", "Their road lay hard across the desert plain."]}, {"id": "B14.17.33", "lines": ["They took the desert road, a lengthy way,", "The army marching, ready for the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.17.34", "lines": ["Then Rostam spoke: “You mighty chiefs, give heed;", "Tus, Gudarz, Giv, famed men of word and deed."]}, {"id": "B14.17.35", "lines": ["This time I close my grip upon the foe,", "And bring our ill-wishers to bitter woe."]}, {"id": "B14.17.36", "lines": ["Who knew that cunning man from Sind would stand", "With Chin, Saklab, and Hind at his command?"]}, {"id": "B14.17.37", "lines": ["I will stun his mind, and nothing then shall save", "His body, made the soil of Siavash’s grave."]}, {"id": "B14.17.38", "lines": ["Then Hind, Shingan, Saklab, and Chin shall raise", "No praise for him throughout the coming days.”"]}, {"id": "B14.17.39", "lines": ["He beat the koust; dust rose, a rolling cloud,", "And earth was thronged with warriors, crowd on crowd."]}, {"id": "B14.17.40", "lines": ["The warlike chiefs’ loud voices rose on high,", "And reached the clouds across the dusty sky."]}, {"id": "B14.17.41", "lines": ["Two stages from that battlefield they passed,", "Where corpses blackened all the country vast."]}, {"id": "B14.17.42", "lines": ["They reached a wood and halted by the stream;", "Their mass hid land and water’s flowing gleam."]}, {"id": "B14.17.43", "lines": ["They stayed within that woodland for a while;", "The weary army rested, rank and file."]}, {"id": "B14.17.44", "lines": ["With song and wine they passed the hours away;", "Some laughed with joy, while others drunken lay."]}, {"id": "B14.17.45", "lines": ["Then envoys came from every district round,", "From chiefs and men of fame in lands around."]}, {"id": "B14.17.46", "lines": ["With gifts and gear, the envoys all drew near,", "And scattered rich offerings before the peer."]}, {"id": "B14.18.1", "lines": ["The heavens turned; some days had swiftly flown,", "Their wheeling course no pause or rest had known."]}, {"id": "B14.18.2", "lines": ["Then word was brought before the Shah to say:", "“Kavus’s son, Fariborz, comes this way.”"]}, {"id": "B14.18.3", "lines": ["The Shah and chiefs went out with martial sound,", "The army’s mighty warriors thronged the ground."]}, {"id": "B14.18.4", "lines": ["When Fariborz beheld the monarch’s face,", "He kissed the dust before that royal place."]}, {"id": "B14.18.5", "lines": ["He praised the Shah, a king of mighty name,", "And offered many blessings on his fame."]}, {"id": "B14.18.6", "lines": ["The Shah saw captives, hiyuns in their train,", "The elephants, and men who bore war’s pain."]}, {"id": "B14.18.7", "lines": ["He rode apart, removed his royal crown,", "Then left his steed and cast his body down."]}, {"id": "B14.18.8", "lines": ["He rolled in dust before Yazdan and cried,", "“O holy Ruler, source of strength and guide,"]}, {"id": "B14.18.9", "lines": ["The tyrant worked oppression on my head,", "And left me fatherless in grief and dread."]}, {"id": "B14.18.10", "lines": ["Yet You released me from my grief and pain,", "And gave me crown and realm and royal reign."]}, {"id": "B14.18.11", "lines": ["Both earth and time bowed down beneath my throne,", "The world grew filled with treasure of my own."]}, {"id": "B14.18.12", "lines": ["I thank You, not the men who won the strife;", "Grant only this: preserve brave Rostam’s life.”"]}, {"id": "B14.18.13", "lines": ["He turned his horse and rode back down the way,", "Past elephants and captives in array."]}, {"id": "B14.18.14", "lines": ["He blessed the Pahlevan with all his heart:", "“May joy and brightness never from him part.”"]}, {"id": "B14.18.15", "lines": ["He sought the palace, wrote his answer’s lines,", "And planted one more tree where greatness shines."]}, {"id": "B14.18.16", "lines": ["He first praised God, who shapes our changing state,", "From whom come good and ill in mortal fate;"]}, {"id": "B14.18.17", "lines": ["Yazdan of Saturn and the sky above,", "From whom come war and treaties, bonds of love."]}, {"id": "B14.18.18", "lines": ["He raised the heavens, set them in their place,", "And gave both night and day the world to grace."]}, {"id": "B14.18.19", "lines": ["He made one soul with fortune dark as night,", "Another worthy of the throne by right."]}, {"id": "B14.18.20", "lines": ["From Him come grief and joy, through all our days;", "To Him we owe our thanks and grateful praise."]}, {"id": "B14.18.21", "lines": ["“All that you wrote has reached the royal hall:", "The crowns, the captives, elephants, and all;"]}, {"id": "B14.18.22", "lines": ["Chin’s rich diba, bright ivory thrones in train,", "Arabian steeds, and torques of golden chain;"]}, {"id": "B14.18.23", "lines": ["The many hiyuns, clothing for our wear,", "And carpets, coverlets, and fabrics rare;"]}, {"id": "B14.18.24", "lines": ["All serve for feasts and revelry’s delight;", "What man would choose to meet you in the fight,"]}, {"id": "B14.18.25", "lines": ["Unless his end approached with every breath,", "And, weary of his life, he courted death?"]}, {"id": "B14.18.26", "lines": ["Of all your toil against those countless foes,", "Wherever dust of battle thickly rose,"]}, {"id": "B14.18.27", "lines": ["I feared for you by day and through the night;", "To strangers I said nothing of the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.18.28", "lines": ["In ceaseless prayer I bowed my head for you,", "Before Yazdan, O chief of counsel true."]}, {"id": "B14.18.29", "lines": ["Who has great Rostam standing at his side", "May keep his youth while kingdoms turn and slide."]}, {"id": "B14.18.30", "lines": ["Beneath the sky no servant is your peer;", "May fortune keep its love for you sincere.”"]}, {"id": "B14.18.31", "lines": ["The scribe had finished; then the Shah impressed", "His signet on the praise the page expressed."]}, {"id": "B14.18.32", "lines": ["A robe of honor, at his word, they brought,", "With belts and trappings for the horse, well wrought."]}, {"id": "B14.18.33", "lines": ["A hundred slaves with curls and girdles gold,", "A hundred steeds, gold-saddled, of rare mold;"]}, {"id": "B14.18.34", "lines": ["Chin’s diba, on a hundred camels laid,", "A hundred more with tapestries arrayed;"]}, {"id": "B14.18.35", "lines": ["Two ruby rings, whose stones shone clear and bright,", "A crown of gold and pearls that caught the light;"]}, {"id": "B14.18.36", "lines": ["An armlet, torque, and belt of beaten gold,", "With gold-worked royal robes in many a fold;"]}, {"id": "B14.18.37", "lines": ["They readied gifts for every chief; they spent", "A treasury on presents to be sent."]}, {"id": "B14.18.38", "lines": ["For Fariborz, gold sword and flag were laid,", "A gorz, gold crown, and golden boots well made."]}, {"id": "B14.18.39", "lines": ["He sent him back from Iran on his way,", "To seek the chief, and charged him thus to say:"]}, {"id": "B14.18.40", "lines": ["“In war against Afrasiab, we must keep", "From rest and food, and give no time to sleep."]}, {"id": "B14.18.41", "lines": ["Perhaps that lofty royal head, so proud,", "May in your twisted kamand’s loop be bowed.”"]}, {"id": "B14.18.42", "lines": ["Then Fariborz resumed the road ahead,", "Just as the Shah of Iran wished and said."]}, {"id": "B14.19.1", "lines": ["Then tidings reached Afrasiab’s great court:", "“Fire rose from water; such is our report."]}, {"id": "B14.19.2", "lines": ["With Kamus, Manshur, and Chin’s Khan laid low,", "Turan has suffered this disastrous blow."]}, {"id": "B14.19.3", "lines": ["A nahang then came forth from Iran’s side,", "The sky itself seemed narrowed by its stride."]}, {"id": "B14.19.4", "lines": ["For forty days the armies joined in fight;", "The world wore one dark color, day and night."]}, {"id": "B14.19.5", "lines": ["The horsemen’s dust concealed the sun from sight;", "Our wakeful fortune dimmed and lost its light."]}, {"id": "B14.19.6", "lines": ["Of all our countless ranks upon that plain,", "No horseman fit for service could remain."]}, {"id": "B14.19.7", "lines": ["Our mighty chiefs and champions of the field", "Were bound in chains and forced at last to yield."]}, {"id": "B14.19.8", "lines": ["Disgraced, on elephants they rode in shame,", "While troops for several mil together came."]}, {"id": "B14.19.9", "lines": ["The Khan of Chin, with thousands in his band,", "Was carried captive toward Iran’s great land."]}, {"id": "B14.19.10", "lines": ["No space remained across the field to tread,", "So thick the earth was covered with the dead."]}, {"id": "B14.19.11", "lines": ["Piran has taken Khutan’s road ahead,", "With noble chiefs and warriors whom he led."]}, {"id": "B14.19.12", "lines": ["No man of Chin or Kashan now remains", "In camps or towns or on the border plains."]}, {"id": "B14.19.13", "lines": ["For three mil, blood and brains have drenched the ground;", "No elephants or mighty chiefs are found."]}, {"id": "B14.19.14", "lines": ["With Rostam at its head, Iran’s array", "Draws close, intent on vengeance in the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.19.15", "lines": ["If they should meet us, mountains will be plain,", "And plains rise up as mountains in their train.”"]}, {"id": "B14.19.16", "lines": ["The king heard all; his heart was filled with pain,", "And smoke rose thick within his troubled brain."]}, {"id": "B14.19.17", "lines": ["He called the priests and nobles to debate,", "And spoke at length about their army’s fate:"]}, {"id": "B14.19.18", "lines": ["“A warlike force from Iran sought the fray,", "And faced our famed sepahbods in array."]}, {"id": "B14.19.19", "lines": ["Our countless army, armed with gorz and spear,", "Has fallen in the fight and cost us dear."]}, {"id": "B14.19.20", "lines": ["It seems I am bound to earth by bitter grief,", "For Chin’s great Khan and for Kamus the chief."]}, {"id": "B14.19.21", "lines": ["Now troops are slain or maimed in every place,", "Two-thirds of our great chiefs are bound in disgrace."]}, {"id": "B14.19.22", "lines": ["What shall we do? What remedy appears?", "We must not take this lightly, chiefs and peers."]}, {"id": "B14.19.23", "lines": ["If Rostam leads, then neither thorn nor weed", "Will stand across these fields before his speed."]}, {"id": "B14.19.24", "lines": ["If this is Rostam whom I faced that day,", "How hard I struggled with him in the fray!"]}, {"id": "B14.19.25", "lines": ["I brought my army once to Rey, and there", "He was a reed-like child, so slight and spare."]}, {"id": "B14.19.26", "lines": ["He seized me from my saddle by his might;", "Both armies stood astonished at the sight."]}, {"id": "B14.19.27", "lines": ["My belt and coat-clasp broke beneath the strain;", "Headlong beneath his feet I struck the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.19.28", "lines": ["What he has done in Mazandaran’s land,", "What fell upon its chiefs beneath his hand!"]}, {"id": "B14.19.29", "lines": ["And how he shattered chiefs on Turan’s field,", "Till all our vaunted glory had to yield.”"]}, {"id": "B14.19.30", "lines": ["The nobles rose and said, “Though Chin’s vast horde", "And Saklab’s troops against Iran have poured,"]}, {"id": "B14.19.31", "lines": ["Why call us to your aid? Your treasure store", "You scattered recklessly; what was it for?"]}, {"id": "B14.19.32", "lines": ["Our troops are whole; none fell upon the plain,", "Nor is our country marked by blood’s red stain."]}, {"id": "B14.19.33", "lines": ["Why fear this Rostam? Why should dread in you", "Fulfill the hopes of all that hostile crew?"]}, {"id": "B14.19.34", "lines": ["We all were born for death; our belts stay tight,", "Unloosened since we girded them to fight."]}, {"id": "B14.19.35", "lines": ["If they should trample on our native clay,", "For what they do, they shall be made to pay."]}, {"id": "B14.19.36", "lines": ["When we take arms for vengeance in the fray,", "No man from Iran shall survive that day.”"]}, {"id": "B14.19.37", "lines": ["He heard their answer; from the ranks he chose", "Men bold of tongue to stand against his foes."]}, {"id": "B14.19.38", "lines": ["He summoned chiefs and warriors to the test,", "And put away all sleep and food and rest."]}, {"id": "B14.19.39", "lines": ["He opened treasuries, gave dinars of gold,", "And fed his soul with heart’s blood; grief took hold."]}, {"id": "B14.19.40", "lines": ["The earth grew thronged with warriors, fierce and bright;", "It seemed that heaven had come down to fight."]}, {"id": "B14.20.1", "lines": ["The coil of evil now stood clear and plain,", "As glad Fariborz reached the hero’s train."]}, {"id": "B14.20.2", "lines": ["The monarch’s robe of honor then he brought,", "The crown and earrings, delicately wrought."]}, {"id": "B14.20.3", "lines": ["Then Rostam, elephantine chief, was glad,", "And joy restored the mighty heart he had."]}, {"id": "B14.20.4", "lines": ["The army’s great men gathered near and cried:", "“May earth through Rostam prosper far and wide."]}, {"id": "B14.20.5", "lines": ["May Shah and Iran flourish through his might,", "In field and mountain, fortress, plain, and height.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.6", "lines": ["They raised the monarch’s robe above each head,", "And offered blessings on his name, and said:"]}, {"id": "B14.20.7", "lines": ["“We are the Shah’s own servants, one and all,", "To heed his counsel and obey his call.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.8", "lines": ["Then Rostam led the army on its way", "To Sughd, and there they made a fortnight’s stay."]}, {"id": "B14.20.9", "lines": ["He hunted Gur-e-Khar and drank away", "The hours, and passed his time so, day by day."]}, {"id": "B14.20.10", "lines": ["One stage brought them to Bidad’s fort, whose walls", "Held multitudes that crowded all its halls."]}, {"id": "B14.20.11", "lines": ["Its people ate no food but human flesh;", "The lovely perished, feeding them afresh."]}, {"id": "B14.20.12", "lines": ["The flesh of children not yet grown was spread", "Before the vile king when his board was fed."]}, {"id": "B14.20.13", "lines": ["Fair slaves were chosen, free of any trace", "Of blemish on the body or the face."]}, {"id": "B14.20.14", "lines": ["Such lovely bodies furnished all his fare;", "They made his food from those whose looks were fair."]}, {"id": "B14.20.15", "lines": ["Then peerless Rostam from the army chose", "Three thousand mail-clad riders for those foes."]}, {"id": "B14.20.16", "lines": ["With Gostaham, two seasoned chiefs he led;", "On steeds in bargostvan, at foes they sped."]}, {"id": "B14.20.17", "lines": ["Bijan and brave Hajir rode at his side,", "Both skilled in combat, bold and battle-tried."]}, {"id": "B14.20.18", "lines": ["Within that fortress lived a man of might,", "The people’s chief, a master of the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.20.19", "lines": ["The king was named Kafur; within that town", "His royal grant upheld his rule and crown."]}, {"id": "B14.20.20", "lines": ["When word arrived that from Iran there came", "A vengeful chief who bore a mighty name,"]}, {"id": "B14.20.21", "lines": ["He donned his khaftan; all his leopard race", "Rode from the city, armed to give them chase."]}, {"id": "B14.20.22", "lines": ["Their kamands flew with skill at each command;", "Like anvils made of stone, they took their stand."]}, {"id": "B14.20.23", "lines": ["Kafur met Gostaham; the armies closed,", "And rank on rank in battle stood opposed."]}, {"id": "B14.20.24", "lines": ["Like a bold lion charging on its prey,", "A deer, they joined in battle on that day."]}, {"id": "B14.20.25", "lines": ["Many Iranians fell beneath the blow;", "The keenest fighters turned before the foe."]}, {"id": "B14.20.26", "lines": ["Then Gostaham beheld that army stand,", "And saw the world within the crooked Div’s hand."]}, {"id": "B14.20.27", "lines": ["He bade the archers loose a darkening rain,", "And set his mounted ambush on the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.20.28", "lines": ["Kafur said, “Chiefs, no pikan driven hard", "Can leave this iron marked or even scarred."]}, {"id": "B14.20.29", "lines": ["Use sword and gorz and kamand in the fight,", "And bind those leaders’ heads before our sight.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.30", "lines": ["They fought until the stream flashed red with fire,", "And battle raged with ever-mounting ire."]}, {"id": "B14.20.31", "lines": ["Then many of Iran’s brave fighters died;", "The heavens poured misfortune far and wide."]}, {"id": "B14.20.32", "lines": ["To Bijan Gostaham in haste appealed:", "“Give rein and ride to Rostam from the field."]}, {"id": "B14.20.33", "lines": ["Tell him: ‘Do not delay, O matchless one;", "Bring two hundred riders before all is done.’”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.34", "lines": ["Bijan, the son of Giv, flew like a gale,", "And told the matchless chief the battle’s tale."]}, {"id": "B14.20.35", "lines": ["Rostam bore down upon his stirrups then;", "No high or low was marked by all his men."]}, {"id": "B14.20.36", "lines": ["He reached the field as if a windstorm roared", "Down from black hills where storm and darkness poured."]}, {"id": "B14.20.37", "lines": ["He cried to Kafur, “Dog devoid of worth,", "I end your war and trouble on this earth.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.38", "lines": ["Kafur came rushing, fierce in his pursuit,", "Against the royal tree that bore such fruit."]}, {"id": "B14.20.39", "lines": ["He hurled his sword as if he loosed a dart,", "At Rostam, who made lions quail at heart."]}, {"id": "B14.20.40", "lines": ["But Rostam caught it cleanly on his shield;", "Kafur stood balked upon the battlefield."]}, {"id": "B14.20.41", "lines": ["Kafur next flung his kamand, casting loose;", "Then Rostam mocked the throw as of no use."]}, {"id": "B14.20.42", "lines": ["Then Rostam’s gorz descended like a stone,", "And crushed through helm and head and neck and bone."]}, {"id": "B14.20.43", "lines": ["His brains streamed from his nostrils in a flood;", "Kafur fell dead and darkened earth with blood."]}, {"id": "B14.20.44", "lines": ["Then Rostam charged the gate through that array;", "No great or small could be discerned that day."]}, {"id": "B14.20.45", "lines": ["The men within the fortress sealed the gate,", "And arrows poured like storms of iron fate."]}, {"id": "B14.20.46", "lines": ["They called, “O man of strength and sharpened sense,", "O elephant in leopard-hide defense!"]}, {"id": "B14.20.47", "lines": ["What name did your own father give at birth:", "Kamand-flinger; or Heaven of War on earth?"]}, {"id": "B14.20.48", "lines": ["Alas for all your toil against our town,", "Known as the Battle-Hold, of wide renown."]}, {"id": "B14.20.49", "lines": ["When Tur, Fereydoon’s son, left Iran’s land,", "He called on builders skilled in what they planned."]}, {"id": "B14.20.50", "lines": ["With stone and brick he raised this strong retreat,", "With timber, reeds, and toil made it complete."]}, {"id": "B14.20.51", "lines": ["By toil and magic, sweating, Tur supplied", "His treasury’s wealth to raise each mighty side."]}, {"id": "B14.20.52", "lines": ["Great warriors strove to send its dust on high,", "And brought their strength to bear beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "B14.20.53", "lines": ["Yet none could make these mighty walls their own;", "No prize repaid their toil against the stone."]}, {"id": "B14.20.54", "lines": ["Here arms and food are stored in rich supply,", "With underground roads bringing stores nearby."]}, {"id": "B14.20.55", "lines": ["Though you should toil for years, your prize is strife;", "These walls will waste the labor of your life."]}, {"id": "B14.20.56", "lines": ["Tur’s spells, the Catholicos’s breath defy", "Your catapults, however hard you try.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.57", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, he stood perplexed, amazed;", "The warriors’ hearts grew dark, their spirits dazed."]}, {"id": "B14.20.58", "lines": ["A siege did not accord with Rostam’s will;", "On four sides troops approached the fortress hill."]}, {"id": "B14.20.59", "lines": ["First Zabul’s army came in armor bright,", "With Kabul blades made ready for the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.20.60", "lines": ["Gudarz and Tus each held a side; the rear", "Held Giv with elephants; the koust rang clear."]}, {"id": "B14.20.61", "lines": ["The veteran Rostam bent his bow with might;", "The fortress stared in awe at such a sight."]}, {"id": "B14.20.62", "lines": ["He picked off every head that dared arise", "Above the wall before his watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "B14.20.63", "lines": ["His pikan spoke in whispers to the brain;", "An ill-matched pair were joined in mortal pain."]}, {"id": "B14.20.64", "lines": ["To drive the garrison from tower and stone,", "He mined beneath the walls they called their own."]}, {"id": "B14.20.65", "lines": ["The posts that held the ramparts overhead", "With black naphtha were coated as they spread."]}, {"id": "B14.20.66", "lines": ["When half the fortress wall was undermined,", "He fired the wood beneath the stone confined."]}, {"id": "B14.20.67", "lines": ["Tur’s ramparts fell amid the fiery glow;", "From every side the troops rushed at the foe."]}, {"id": "B14.20.68", "lines": ["Then Rostam bade them bring their bows to bear,", "And rain their poplar arrows through the air."]}, {"id": "B14.20.69", "lines": ["The brave defenders threw their lives away,", "To save their gold, their homes, their kin that day."]}, {"id": "B14.20.70", "lines": ["Their children, kin, and country faced the knife;", "Far better had they never come to life."]}, {"id": "B14.20.71", "lines": ["Iranian ranks advanced on foot below,", "Each warrior with his shield and shafts and bow."]}, {"id": "B14.20.72", "lines": ["With Gostaham and Bijan at their head,", "The spearmen charged together where they led."]}, {"id": "B14.20.73", "lines": ["The fire’s rage and arrows’ deadly shower", "Left flight the only hope in that dark hour."]}, {"id": "B14.20.74", "lines": ["Those who escaped the castle walls in pain", "Fled weeping from the ruin through the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.20.75", "lines": ["The victors closed the gate upon the keep;", "They slaughtered, and they plundered heap on heap."]}, {"id": "B14.20.76", "lines": ["What multitudes they slew! How many old", "And young were carried captive, we are told."]}, {"id": "B14.20.77", "lines": ["Much silver, gold, and precious goods were gained,", "With beasts, and men and women slaves detained."]}, {"id": "B14.20.78", "lines": ["The matchless Rostam bathed and prayed; and when", "He rose, he spoke to all Iran’s great men:"]}, {"id": "B14.20.79", "lines": ["“With God, the hidden shines more clear and bright", "Than all that lies revealed before our sight."]}, {"id": "B14.20.80", "lines": ["Praise Him who granted us this victory;", "Give thanks for all His blessings, full and free.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.81", "lines": ["The great men all together bowed each face", "Upon the earth, and thanked God for His grace."]}, {"id": "B14.20.82", "lines": ["When they had finished praising God, they turned", "To praise the chief whose deeds such honor earned:"]}, {"id": "B14.20.83", "lines": ["“The man who cannot match you in the fight", "Should sit apart from name and shame outright."]}, {"id": "B14.20.84", "lines": ["With elephantine frame and lion’s claws,", "You hunger still for war without a pause.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.85", "lines": ["Then peerless Rostam said, “This farr and might", "Are robes of honor from Yazdan of Right."]}, {"id": "B14.20.86", "lines": ["You also hold your shares by His command;", "No man can fault the Maker’s giving hand.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.87", "lines": ["He ordered Giv, two thousand at his side,", "Shield-bearers, steeds in bargostvan, to ride."]}, {"id": "B14.20.88", "lines": ["“Make haste to Khutan’s border with your force,", "And halt the massed Turanians on their course.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.89", "lines": ["When night unbound its dark and curling hair,", "The crescent moon bent double under care,"]}, {"id": "B14.20.90", "lines": ["Giv rode with all those warriors and stayed", "Three days afield where his harsh raids were made."]}, {"id": "B14.20.91", "lines": ["When sunlight raised its crown on high and shone,", "It took its seat upon the ivory throne."]}, {"id": "B14.20.92", "lines": ["From Turan came Giv with his captured train,", "The caps of many nobles were his gain."]}, {"id": "B14.20.93", "lines": ["Fair-cheeked idols from Taraz in array,", "With horses, arms, and treasure borne away."]}, {"id": "B14.20.94", "lines": ["Then Rostam sent the Shah one half the spoil,", "And gave the rest to all who shared the toil."]}, {"id": "B14.20.95", "lines": ["Gudarz, Tus, Giv, and Gostaham drew near,", "With Shidush and Rohham, to bless their peer."]}, {"id": "B14.20.96", "lines": ["Then Bijan joined the chiefs with praises raised;", "Together all the noble hero praised."]}, {"id": "B14.20.97", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “Exalted chief, your care", "And love are needed by the world we share."]}, {"id": "B14.20.98", "lines": ["In every hour our lips shall speak your praise,", "And never cease to bless you through our days."]}, {"id": "B14.20.99", "lines": ["Be old in wisdom, young in fortune still;", "Live glad, with shining heart and cheerful will."]}, {"id": "B14.20.100", "lines": ["God gave you purity of stock and name;", "No stainless mother bore your peer in fame."]}, {"id": "B14.20.101", "lines": ["May sire succeed to sire and son to son,", "And may your noble line be never done."]}, {"id": "B14.20.102", "lines": ["You lack for nothing; fortune guards your state,", "The head of chiefs, in rank and glory great."]}, {"id": "B14.20.103", "lines": ["God gave you manhood, setting you apart,", "And stripped that name from every other heart."]}, {"id": "B14.20.104", "lines": ["May God, the Master of the world, defend;", "May earth and time themselves remain your friend."]}, {"id": "B14.20.105", "lines": ["May your great name endure from age to age;", "May fortune prosper through your earthly stage."]}, {"id": "B14.20.106", "lines": ["Whoever roamed across the world’s wide ground,", "Through peace and battle, vengeance all around,"]}, {"id": "B14.20.107", "lines": ["Has never seen an army of this might,", "Nor heard old sages tell of such a sight:"]}, {"id": "B14.20.108", "lines": ["Such kings and elephants, ivory thrones,", "Such steeds and men, rich treasure, crowns, and stones;"]}, {"id": "B14.20.109", "lines": ["The stars looked down upon that field of fight,", "Where all our army stood in helpless plight."]}, {"id": "B14.20.110", "lines": ["We circled round the fortress in our woe,", "And sought a cure but found no path to go."]}, {"id": "B14.20.111", "lines": ["Caught in the Dragon’s breath, we cried aloud,", "Until your kamand freed us from that cloud."]}, {"id": "B14.20.112", "lines": ["O Crown of Iran, lofty, brave, and true,", "The chiefs’ support; we all stand less than you."]}, {"id": "B14.20.113", "lines": ["We are your warriors. May God repay", "Your deeds and keep your face in joy each day."]}, {"id": "B14.20.114", "lines": ["No recompense can match what you have done;", "We have no gift but praise, O mighty one."]}, {"id": "B14.20.115", "lines": ["May greatness grow in you from year to year;", "Your skillful claw is a whole army’s peer.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.116", "lines": ["Then Rostam, glad and eased of anxious strain,", "Addressed the noble chiefs of his campaign:"]}, {"id": "B14.20.117", "lines": ["“Iran’s great nobles are my strength and stay;", "With bright heart and true tongue I speak today."]}, {"id": "B14.20.118", "lines": ["For three more days we linger, feast, and smile,", "And fill the world with joy a little while."]}, {"id": "B14.20.119", "lines": ["Against Afrasiab, upon day four,", "We march, and fire from water’s depths shall pour.”"]}, {"id": "B14.20.120", "lines": ["The chiefs turned from his words to food and wine,", "And gathered at the feast, content to dine."]}, {"id": "B14.21.1", "lines": ["To Afrasiab came tidings fraught with fear:", "“Rostam has ravaged all the country here.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.2", "lines": ["The monarch’s heart grew sore at that refrain;", "His silken raiment turned to thorns of pain."]}, {"id": "B14.21.3", "lines": ["“Who dares ride out and Rostam’s might withstand?", "We have the troops, but who will take command?"]}, {"id": "B14.21.4", "lines": ["Who dares confront that warrior on his track,", "Whose hoof-struck fire has turned the country black?”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.5", "lines": ["The warriors cried, “Do not draw back in dread;", "Turn not from battle; face that man instead."]}, {"id": "B14.21.6", "lines": ["Within the dust of battle you can raise", "Blood’s wave toward the moon through battle-haze."]}, {"id": "B14.21.7", "lines": ["We have no lack of treasure, arms, or men;", "Why should the quest of battle grieve you then?"]}, {"id": "B14.21.8", "lines": ["Do not be troubled; cast your fear aside;", "Look on our gallant troops on every side."]}, {"id": "B14.21.9", "lines": ["Grant him an iron frame and matchless might;", "He still is one man standing in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.21.10", "lines": ["Our brief words on this man have grown too long;", "Devise his end: you have an army strong."]}, {"id": "B14.21.11", "lines": ["Drag down his head from saddle to the sod;", "What need we fear thereafter, Shah or God?"]}, {"id": "B14.21.12", "lines": ["No Kay Khosrow shall flourish, nor his throne,", "Nor Iran’s land, nor branch or tree be grown."]}, {"id": "B14.21.13", "lines": ["Behold these noble youths in our array,", "All fit to meet the trials of the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.21.14", "lines": ["For land and children, wives and kin we stand,", "Our little ones, our homes, our native land."]}, {"id": "B14.21.15", "lines": ["We all would give our bodies to be slain", "Before we yield the country to their reign.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.16", "lines": ["When Afrasiab had heard the words they spoke,", "He quite forgot that ancient battle’s stroke."]}, {"id": "B14.21.17", "lines": ["For fatherland and for his royal state,", "He formed a plan to challenge coming fate:"]}, {"id": "B14.21.18", "lines": ["“When pressed by danger, I shall take in hand", "The arms of war, prepared to make a stand."]}, {"id": "B14.21.19", "lines": ["I shall not let Kay Khosrow on his throne", "Enjoy the happy fortune he has known."]}, {"id": "B14.21.20", "lines": ["With my long-reaching hand I shall bring to dust", "The head of Rostam, whom Zabul will trust."]}, {"id": "B14.21.21", "lines": ["I will not spare my grandson in this strife;", "My sword shall end this quarrel with his life.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.22", "lines": ["He gave command to marshal all his force,", "And march to war along the vengeful course."]}, {"id": "B14.21.23", "lines": ["The nobles blessed him, urging him to fight,", "To rise in vengeance with his royal might."]}, {"id": "B14.21.24", "lines": ["A lion-hearted man named Farghar knew", "The cage, and many traps he had slipped through."]}, {"id": "B14.21.25", "lines": ["The king had watched his prowess in the field,", "And knew the worth his arms and strength revealed."]}, {"id": "B14.21.26", "lines": ["He sent the others out and called him near:", "“O noble man, now learn what I would hear."]}, {"id": "B14.21.27", "lines": ["Seek Iran’s lines, and measure Rostam’s power;", "Watch how that warrior longs for battle’s hour."]}, {"id": "B14.21.28", "lines": ["Observe their horsemen’s numbers and array,", "And learn who through this country guides their way."]}, {"id": "B14.21.29", "lines": ["Mark well the famous chiefs amid their band,", "And learn what purpose calls them to this land."]}, {"id": "B14.21.30", "lines": ["Count riders helmeted and clad in steel;", "Learn which famed warriors now their ranks reveal."]}, {"id": "B14.21.31", "lines": ["Mark elephants and warriors, all you see;", "Find out what Iran’s battle-plans may be.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.32", "lines": ["Farghar departed, secret in his aim,", "To spy on Rostam’s ranks and learn their frame."]}, {"id": "B14.21.33", "lines": ["Meanwhile the king, ambitious, racked with doubt,", "Held council close, and shut all strangers out."]}, {"id": "B14.21.34", "lines": ["He summoned Shideh, born of royal line,", "And shared with him the secrets, by design:"]}, {"id": "B14.21.35", "lines": ["“O you endowed with wisdom, tell me true,", "When will your troops take thought and care for you?"]}, {"id": "B14.21.36", "lines": ["Know that the countless army drawing near,", "With warriors, has come for battle here."]}, {"id": "B14.21.37", "lines": ["Their lion-hearted leader’s sword sheds blood", "Till all the dust beneath him turns to mud."]}, {"id": "B14.21.38", "lines": ["Kamus and Fartus, Chin’s Khan, Gahar the bold,", "And praised Manshur, whose name was widely told,"]}, {"id": "B14.21.39", "lines": ["With Kundur, Shangul, king of Hind’s domain,", "Whose troops from Kashmir stretched to Sind’s terrain,"]}, {"id": "B14.21.40", "lines": ["Were slain or captured by that lion’s might;", "Some lost their lives, some liberty in fight."]}, {"id": "B14.21.41", "lines": ["For forty days, with lulls between the strain,", "They fought, but Rostam triumphed on the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.21.42", "lines": ["At last his kamand brought Chin’s great Khan down", "From elephant-back, in bonds despite his crown."]}, {"id": "B14.21.43", "lines": ["The horsemen and the chiefs of every land,", "The foremost men who held their realms in hand,"]}, {"id": "B14.21.44", "lines": ["With arms, hiyuns, and elephants he sent", "The crown and ivory throne, to Khosrow meant."]}, {"id": "B14.21.45", "lines": ["By that same token now he comes this way,", "With famous chiefs and pride in war’s array."]}, {"id": "B14.21.46", "lines": ["I shall not leave my throne or treasure here,", "While fortune shifts and danger presses near."]}, {"id": "B14.21.47", "lines": ["The treasure, crowns, and girdles I possess,", "Gold torques and golden shields in readiness,"]}, {"id": "B14.21.48", "lines": ["To Almas River I shall send the train;", "This is no hour for wine or song’s refrain."]}, {"id": "B14.21.49", "lines": ["I dread great Rostam, terrible and strong;", "Who could survive a nahang’s jaws for long?"]}, {"id": "B14.21.50", "lines": ["He does not writhe when wounded, cry in pain;", "No human seems he on the battle-plain."]}, {"id": "B14.21.51", "lines": ["He fears no spear or sword, no gorz’s might,", "Though clouds rain arrows on him in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.21.52", "lines": ["His frame seems stone and iron, jowshan-sealed;", "No man, but Ahriman, within concealed."]}, {"id": "B14.21.53", "lines": ["So vast the arms upon his body worn,", "Earth’s back is weary of the burden borne."]}, {"id": "B14.21.54", "lines": ["In jowshan, with his helm and tiger hide,", "He roars like thunder rolling far and wide."]}, {"id": "B14.21.55", "lines": ["No elephant can bear his charge; no boat", "Upon the Nile could keep his arms afloat."]}, {"id": "B14.21.56", "lines": ["The mountain under him flies like a gale;", "Of water’s race, you would say, that steed must hail."]}, {"id": "B14.21.57", "lines": ["With speed of deer and strength of lions, he", "Is bold upon dry land and in the sea."]}, {"id": "B14.21.58", "lines": ["Ask him for speech, and speech he will provide;", "Like some great ship across the seas he will glide."]}, {"id": "B14.21.59", "lines": ["Full often I have faced him, blow for blow;", "In leopard-hide jowshan he meets the foe."]}, {"id": "B14.21.60", "lines": ["My weapons never found an entrance through,", "Though gorz and axe I tried, and struck him true."]}, {"id": "B14.21.61", "lines": ["But now I shall renew the war to prove", "What fortune holds, and which way it will move."]}, {"id": "B14.21.62", "lines": ["If God should help us and the heavens turn", "To grant the fortune for which all hearts yearn,"]}, {"id": "B14.21.63", "lines": ["Then neither Iran nor its Shah shall stand;", "Perhaps this war shall finish by my hand."]}, {"id": "B14.21.64", "lines": ["But if great Rostam’s hand should win the fray,", "I shall not linger here another day."]}, {"id": "B14.21.65", "lines": ["Across Chin’s sea I shall pursue my way,", "And leave this land of Turan to obey.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.66", "lines": ["Then Shideh answered, “Prudent king, live bright", "While crown and throne endure in royal light."]}, {"id": "B14.21.67", "lines": ["You have farr, wisdom, bearing, royal birth,", "And fortune, courage, manhood, strength, and worth."]}, {"id": "B14.21.68", "lines": ["You need no counselor to make you wise;", "Yet mark how fortune turns before your eyes."]}, {"id": "B14.21.69", "lines": ["Piran, Houman, Farshidvard, in retreat,", "With Kulbad, Nastihan, have known defeat."]}, {"id": "B14.21.70", "lines": ["Their armor has been shattered in the fight;", "Their hearts are broken, gripped by grief and fright."]}, {"id": "B14.21.71", "lines": ["Call them, and win their hearts with love; then go", "And rouse your gathered ranks against the foe."]}, {"id": "B14.21.72", "lines": ["You are the chosen king, in battle known,", "Who has seen much and made the world his own."]}, {"id": "B14.21.73", "lines": ["By life and head of Turan’s king, I swear,", "By sun and sword, by throne and cap you wear,"]}, {"id": "B14.21.74", "lines": ["The fate of Khan and Kamus fills my breast", "With grief, my head with vengeance and unrest."]}, {"id": "B14.21.75", "lines": ["Our task is now to lead the troops to Gang,", "Not seek a battle while these dangers hang."]}, {"id": "B14.21.76", "lines": ["From Chin and from Machin call every band;", "Then for renewed revenge let armies stand.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.77", "lines": ["When he had spoken, he withdrew to rest,", "With haste in mind and vengeance in his breast."]}, {"id": "B14.21.78", "lines": ["The dark night opened melancholy eyes;", "With grief the moon bent low across the skies."]}, {"id": "B14.21.79", "lines": ["The world was sable musk in shade and hue,", "When back from Iran’s lines Farghar came through."]}, {"id": "B14.21.80", "lines": ["At night, the hour of quiet and repose,", "He reached Afrasiab and spoke of foes:"]}, {"id": "B14.21.81", "lines": ["“I left this lofty court and crossed the land", "To Rostam, mighty binder of the Div band."]}, {"id": "B14.21.82", "lines": ["A vast green royal pavilion there I found,", "A growling, wolf-like rider held that ground."]}, {"id": "B14.21.83", "lines": ["A black dragon-standard towered around;", "Its head, one thinks, the moon itself had crowned."]}, {"id": "B14.21.84", "lines": ["Before his royal tent, more tents were spread;", "The banners of great chiefs rose overhead."]}, {"id": "B14.21.85", "lines": ["Within the tent stood elephantine might,", "With Babr-e Bayan at the waist bound tight."]}, {"id": "B14.21.86", "lines": ["A piebald steed stood restless at his side;", "It seemed no place could hold him satisfied."]}, {"id": "B14.21.87", "lines": ["Its bridle from the saddle’s high peak hung,", "Its rawhide kamand coiled where straps were strung."]}, {"id": "B14.21.88", "lines": ["Tus, Gudarz, Giv, and Fariborz stood near,", "With Gorgin and Farhad in battle-gear."]}, {"id": "B14.21.89", "lines": ["Guraza scouted with the battle-band,", "Where Gostaham and Bijan, Giv’s son, stand.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.90", "lines": ["The king grieved deeply at Farghar’s report;", "Then came a messenger before the court:"]}, {"id": "B14.21.91", "lines": ["“Piran has come like dust across the plain,", "With chiefs and troops advancing in his train.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.92", "lines": ["The king told what Farghar had brought to light,", "Then asked, “Who now can match Rostam in fight?”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.93", "lines": ["Piran replied, “What choice is ours but claim", "Our place in war, and seek out name and shame?"]}, {"id": "B14.21.94", "lines": ["For land and children, for our kin, we wield", "Our arms; their cause shall draw us to the field.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.95", "lines": ["Afrasiab, when he had heard him speak,", "Made haste, resolved a fresh revenge to seek."]}, {"id": "B14.21.96", "lines": ["He ordered Piran: “Take the troops and go", "To meet the vengeful Rostam, our great foe.”"]}, {"id": "B14.21.97", "lines": ["They left the court and marched in full array,", "And sought the open battle-plain that day."]}, {"id": "B14.21.98", "lines": ["The shouts rose high; the kousts marked out their way.", "Their dust made ebony of heaven’s ray."]}, {"id": "B14.21.99", "lines": ["So vast the force, it seemed the whole broad sphere", "Beneath the dust of hooves would disappear."]}, {"id": "B14.21.100", "lines": ["Tabira drummers raised their voices high,", "As elephants on elephants filed by."]}, {"id": "B14.22.1", "lines": ["Afrasiab rode forth from palace walls,", "And hurried toward the field where vengeance calls."]}, {"id": "B14.22.2", "lines": ["He gave Piran the orders he would need,", "Then hurried from the plain, from strangers freed."]}, {"id": "B14.22.3", "lines": ["They cleared the place of strangers, one and all,", "And set the scribe before him at his call."]}, {"id": "B14.22.4", "lines": ["He told Shideh, “Do not delay; prepare", "Two hundred riders, and the letter bear.”"]}, {"id": "B14.22.5", "lines": ["He called the seasoned scribe: “Let nothing lie", "Concealed from noble men who stand so high."]}, {"id": "B14.22.6", "lines": ["Compose a letter now to Puladvand,", "And loose the bonds of grief with counsel planned."]}, {"id": "B14.22.7", "lines": ["Begin with praise of God, whose holy might", "Bestows defeat or victory in fight."]}, {"id": "B14.22.8", "lines": ["Yazdan of Saturn and the turning sky,", "Yazdan of Venus and the sun on high."]}, {"id": "B14.22.9", "lines": ["Then praise the fortunate, the famed, the strong,", "Great Puladvand, sepahbod of the throng."]}, {"id": "B14.22.10", "lines": ["Tell what dread wounds the fearless Rostam made,", "That darkly raging warrior, with his blade;"]}, {"id": "B14.22.11", "lines": ["And from the other chiefs who lead his train,", "From Tus, Gudarz, and heroes of the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.22.12", "lines": ["My grandson’s deeds recount, the lord whose sway", "Holds all Iran, with fortune bright as day."]}, {"id": "B14.22.13", "lines": ["I cherished him as life, and held him dear,", "Lest any bitter wind should venture near."]}, {"id": "B14.22.14", "lines": ["Then write: ‘If heaven grants our cause its stay,", "Let Puladvand come swiftly on his way."]}, {"id": "B14.22.15", "lines": ["The Turks, with troops from Chin and Saklab’s side,", "Have been struck down and scattered far and wide."]}, {"id": "B14.22.16", "lines": ["Each field and hill has felt Iran’s attack;", "They leave no border whole along their track."]}, {"id": "B14.22.17", "lines": ["Their horsemen, lions all, rode through the fray,", "And made of Turan pitch-black seas that day."]}, {"id": "B14.22.18", "lines": ["Their army, a moving mountain, comes in might,", "With Rostam as its champion in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.22.19", "lines": ["With old Gudarz and Tus, tabiras loud,", "They raise the kousts’ deep thunder to the cloud."]}, {"id": "B14.22.20", "lines": ["When Rostam meets his death beneath your hand,", "No hostile force shall find a path through our land."]}, {"id": "B14.22.21", "lines": ["All this land’s suffering comes from him alone;", "Be our deliverer; make your prowess known."]}, {"id": "B14.22.22", "lines": ["If by your hand great Rostam should be slain,", "Then all the world shall bow beneath my reign."]}, {"id": "B14.22.23", "lines": ["Of all my kingdom’s wealth, I shall retain", "No more than half the treasure for my gain."]}, {"id": "B14.22.24", "lines": ["The throne, the crown, the rest shall all be yours,", "For battle and its toil now reach your doors.’”"]}, {"id": "B14.22.25", "lines": ["They sealed the letter with the royal seal;", "The moon through Cancer then began to wheel."]}, {"id": "B14.22.26", "lines": ["Before his father Shideh girt his waist,", "His envoy, bearing care, prepared for haste."]}, {"id": "B14.22.27", "lines": ["He came to Puladvand with anxious speed,", "Like fire, through fear of harm and urgent need."]}, {"id": "B14.22.28", "lines": ["In Chin’s high mountains Puladvand held sway;", "No peer in all that country barred his way."]}, {"id": "B14.22.29", "lines": ["The king was Puladvand, whose lofty head", "Reached heaven where the turning stars were spread."]}, {"id": "B14.22.30", "lines": ["Shideh blessed him, gave the scroll to read,", "And told of Rostam’s every mighty deed:"]}, {"id": "B14.22.31", "lines": ["“From Iran Rostam came to seek the fray,", "A lion, with his leopards in array."]}, {"id": "B14.22.32", "lines": ["He raised the smoke of ruin from our ground;", "May no blessing upon his head be found!"]}, {"id": "B14.22.33", "lines": ["He bound Kamus, the Khan, and proud Manshur,", "With Fartus, in his bonds held fast and sure."]}, {"id": "B14.22.34", "lines": ["His arm can strip a lion’s hide away;", "He never tires of battle or the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.22.35", "lines": ["To Iran he has borne off Turan’s ground;", "What name for that vile warrior can be found?"]}, {"id": "B14.22.36", "lines": ["He ties our every task in knots of woe;", "Our nobles’ pomp and splendor lie brought low.”"]}, {"id": "B14.22.37", "lines": ["The king called kanarangs, Mobadan near,", "And told them all the matters they should hear."]}, {"id": "B14.22.38", "lines": ["He read what Afrasiab’s words had shown;", "Young and imperious, he sought the world’s throne."]}, {"id": "B14.22.39", "lines": ["He bade them take the kousts with all the train,", "And pitch his royal pavilion on the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.22.40", "lines": ["His troops assembled, fierce as Divs; a cry", "Rose from the warriors, mounting to the sky."]}, {"id": "B14.22.41", "lines": ["His standards flew behind him and ahead;", "With shield, quiver, and kamand forth he led."]}, {"id": "B14.22.42", "lines": ["He left the mountains, crossed the flowing tide,", "And came before the monarch, Turan’s pride."]}, {"id": "B14.22.43", "lines": ["Tabira sounded at the monarch’s gate;", "The troops came forth to greet his high estate."]}, {"id": "B14.22.44", "lines": ["The elder king embraced him, and again", "Recalled the deeds of earlier days and men."]}, {"id": "B14.22.45", "lines": ["He spoke of former days and present pain,", "Then sought a cure for Turan’s loss and strain."]}, {"id": "B14.22.46", "lines": ["They went toward the palace, talking still", "Of plans and ploys and what might serve their will."]}, {"id": "B14.22.47", "lines": ["Afrasiab spoke of haste and of delay,", "And weighed the courses that before them lay."]}, {"id": "B14.22.48", "lines": ["Of Siavash’s blood upon his hand", "He spoke, and all the strife throughout the land."]}, {"id": "B14.22.49", "lines": ["He told of Khan, Manshur, and Kamus’s fate,", "Recalling all that brought them to this state."]}, {"id": "B14.22.50", "lines": ["Recalling all that passed, he said, “My pain", "Comes through one leopard-skinned upon the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.22.51", "lines": ["My weapons fail against him in the fight,", "Against his hide, helm, Chinese shield so bright."]}, {"id": "B14.22.52", "lines": ["You crossed long roads and plains to reach this place;", "Now shape a cure for war and our disgrace.”"]}, {"id": "B14.22.53", "lines": ["Then Puladvand sank deep in anxious thought,", "And sought a way to loose the knot war brought."]}, {"id": "B14.22.54", "lines": ["He answered Afrasiab: “Do not race", "To battle, but approach at measured pace."]}, {"id": "B14.22.55", "lines": ["If this is Rostam, whose great gorz laid low", "Mazandaran and seized it long ago,"]}, {"id": "B14.22.56", "lines": ["Who rent the White Div’s flank and tore away", "The vitals of Pulad Ghandi and Bid that day,"]}, {"id": "B14.22.57", "lines": ["I lack the prowess to contend with him,", "Or strength to frustrate such a fighter grim."]}, {"id": "B14.22.58", "lines": ["Yet body, soul, and strength are yours to spend;", "May wisdom guard you always as a friend."]}, {"id": "B14.22.59", "lines": ["I shall seek a stratagem to win the day,", "And circle like a leopard round its prey."]}, {"id": "B14.22.60", "lines": ["Incite your troops against Iran’s array;", "Great numbers may confuse him in the fray."]}, {"id": "B14.22.61", "lines": ["Perhaps a stratagem may serve us best;", "No strength of hand can break his neck and chest.”"]}, {"id": "B14.22.62", "lines": ["Afrasiab rejoiced; bright wine was brought,", "With harp and rabab, easing all his thought."]}, {"id": "B14.22.63", "lines": ["When Puladvand was flushed with wine, he cried,", "And spoke before the king in drunken pride:"]}, {"id": "B14.22.64", "lines": ["“I made Jamshid, Zahhak, and Fereydoon", "Find food and sleep and rest a bitter boon."]}, {"id": "B14.22.65", "lines": ["The Brahman trembles when he hears my cry,", "And fears my proud troops marching boldly by."]}, {"id": "B14.22.66", "lines": ["That proud Zabuli, on the field of fight,", "I shall cut to pieces with my sword’s keen bite.”"]}, {"id": "B14.23.1", "lines": ["When sun displayed its shining flag on high,", "Night’s violet silk turned saffron in the sky."]}, {"id": "B14.23.2", "lines": ["Tabira sounded from the gate of the king,", "The troops’ cries rose till clouds began to ring."]}, {"id": "B14.23.3", "lines": ["Strong-limbed Puladvand, his kamand on his arm,", "Stood at the army’s head amid alarm."]}, {"id": "B14.23.4", "lines": ["When both great armies stood in ordered line,", "Black earth and violet air gave war’s dark sign."]}, {"id": "B14.23.5", "lines": ["Then Rostam donned his Babr-e Bayan, bound tight,", "And mounted fierce, elephantine Rakhsh for fight."]}, {"id": "B14.23.6", "lines": ["He raged and struck the right wing of the foe,", "And laid full many Turkish champions low."]}, {"id": "B14.23.7", "lines": ["Then Puladvand grew troubled at the view;", "His saddle’s coiled kamand he loosed and drew."]}, {"id": "B14.23.8", "lines": ["Like some mad elephant he charged in might,", "With kamand on his arm and gorz gripped tight."]}, {"id": "B14.23.9", "lines": ["He seized Tus by the girdle; from his seat", "He lifted him and flung him at his feet."]}, {"id": "B14.23.10", "lines": ["When Giv beheld the field and Tus laid low,", "Nohzar’s son overturned before the foe,"]}, {"id": "B14.23.11", "lines": ["He urged Shabdiz and gave his spirit’s might,", "His body and his soul, to join the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.23.12", "lines": ["Like some fierce lion, jowshan on his back,", "Giv charged, his gorz uplifted to attack."]}, {"id": "B14.23.13", "lines": ["Then Puladvand let fly his kamand’s coil;", "It caught Giv’s head and held, for all his toil."]}, {"id": "B14.23.14", "lines": ["Rohham and Bijan watched that warrior stand,", "His strength and towering form, his bearing grand."]}, {"id": "B14.23.15", "lines": ["They came with kamands, seeking his hands to bind,", "But Puladvand was wary, fierce of mind."]}, {"id": "B14.23.16", "lines": ["He spurred his steed and raised his battle-cry,", "And struck out, keen of hand and quick of eye."]}, {"id": "B14.23.17", "lines": ["Those two proud champions, noble men of might,", "Were famed and honored, foremost in the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.23.18", "lines": ["He hurled them down and trampled where they lay,", "While horsemen watched across the field that day."]}, {"id": "B14.23.19", "lines": ["He reached the standard of Kaveh in war,", "And with his khanjar split it to the core."]}, {"id": "B14.23.20", "lines": ["The Iranians wailed; no warrior held the field,", "No champion stood with spear or sword or shield."]}, {"id": "B14.23.21", "lines": ["When Fariborz, Gudarz, and chiefs drew near,", "They saw that warrior Div’s great strength with fear."]}, {"id": "B14.23.22", "lines": ["They said to Rostam, Zal’s avenging son:", "“See what fierce Puladvand in war has done."]}, {"id": "B14.23.23", "lines": ["No horseman in our force can keep his seat,", "No chief remains who has not met defeat."]}, {"id": "B14.23.24", "lines": ["Puladvand has hurled our chiefs to the ground,", "With gorz, khanjar, shaft, and kamand swung around."]}, {"id": "B14.23.25", "lines": ["The field of battle overflows with woe;", "Now Rostam must come forth and face the foe.”"]}, {"id": "B14.23.26", "lines": ["Then cries of grief rose up from left and right,", "From both the wings and center of the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.23.27", "lines": ["Gudarz, the elder, feared that all were slain:", "Giv, Rohham, Bijan, fallen on the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.23.28", "lines": ["With his two sons and grandson lost that day,", "He cried to God, the just Judge, in dismay:"]}, {"id": "B14.23.29", "lines": ["“I had so many sons and grandsons bright", "That once my head rose past the sun in height."]}, {"id": "B14.23.30", "lines": ["Before my eyes, in battle they were slain;", "My star and days have turned to grief and pain."]}, {"id": "B14.23.31", "lines": ["My young lie slain, while I grow old and gray;", "Shame on this cap and belt I wear today!"]}, {"id": "B14.23.32", "lines": ["Alas for all those young men, bravely grown!", "My smiling fortune now lies overthrown.”"]}, {"id": "B14.23.33", "lines": ["He loosed his belt and took his cap away,", "And raised his cries and wailed in his dismay."]}, {"id": "B14.24.1", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, grief shook him utterly;", "He trembled like a leaf upon a tree."]}, {"id": "B14.24.2", "lines": ["He drew to Puladvand and saw his height,", "A mountain looming in the press of fight."]}, {"id": "B14.24.3", "lines": ["He grieved for those four chiefs brought down so low,", "Like Gur-e-Khar before a lion’s blow."]}, {"id": "B14.24.4", "lines": ["He saw his wounded army, sorely tried,", "With battle pressing from the other side."]}, {"id": "B14.24.5", "lines": ["He thought, “Our day is dark upon the field;", "Our nobles’ minds are dazed; our fortunes yield."]}, {"id": "B14.24.6", "lines": ["The wheel has turned against us in the fight;", "Our wakeful fortune sleeps, bereft of light.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.7", "lines": ["He gripped with both his legs and urged his steed,", "Then challenged Puladvand with wrath and speed."]}, {"id": "B14.24.8", "lines": ["He cried, “O base and wretched Div, draw near;", "You shall behold a turn of fortune here.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.9", "lines": ["His voice reached all the warriors on the plain;", "He saw the fallen chiefs and spoke in pain:"]}, {"id": "B14.24.10", "lines": ["“O Lord of all the world, beyond our sight,", "Above the seen and hidden in Your might,"]}, {"id": "B14.24.11", "lines": ["I would far rather lose my eyes in strife", "Than look upon this bitter day of life."]}, {"id": "B14.24.12", "lines": ["Such loud cries from the battle-line ring through,", "From Piran, Houman, and the fierce Div too."]}, {"id": "B14.24.13", "lines": ["Giv, Tus, Rohham are on foot in fear,", "With Bijan, who met lions with a jeer."]}, {"id": "B14.24.14", "lines": ["The chargers of the great are pierced with darts;", "Their riders fight afoot with breaking hearts.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.15", "lines": ["He closed with Puladvand and cast his snare;", "The rider ducked; it caught the empty air."]}, {"id": "B14.24.16", "lines": ["Afraid and weary, he escaped the throw,", "Then raised his voice in taunts against his foe:"]}, {"id": "B14.24.17", "lines": ["“O gallant one, old lion, widely known,", "Who makes great elephants recoil and groan,"]}, {"id": "B14.24.18", "lines": ["Now you shall see the Nile’s great waters roll;", "Behold my battle-fire, my heart and soul."]}, {"id": "B14.24.19", "lines": ["My kamand, courage, boldness, and my might", "Will blot your Shah and nobles from your sight."]}, {"id": "B14.24.20", "lines": ["Your land henceforth shall vanish from your eyes;", "In dreams alone shall you behold it rise."]}, {"id": "B14.24.21", "lines": ["I give your broken army on the plain", "To mighty Afrasiab and his train.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.22", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “How long this fraud and pride?", "These threats and snares; what more have you to hide?"]}, {"id": "B14.24.23", "lines": ["A warrior’s tongue should curb its boastful breath;", "For reckless words will surely bring him death."]}, {"id": "B14.24.24", "lines": ["Though bold and fierce, you are no Sahm; your ire", "Makes you no iron, nor are you formed of fire.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.25", "lines": ["Then Puladvand recalled the words of old:", "A warning that the ancient wise had told:"]}, {"id": "B14.24.26", "lines": ["“Who seeks unjust war comes home pale and sore,", "His liver wounded by the strife he bore."]}, {"id": "B14.24.27", "lines": ["Though friend or foe should harm you, still be fair;", "Let good and bad alike in justice share.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.28", "lines": ["He thought, “This is that Rostam, fierce in might,", "Whose heavy gorz won Mazandaran by night.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.29", "lines": ["Then said, “O man approved in battle’s lore,", "Why stand we here so long and gain no more?”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.30", "lines": ["Two mighty elephants, two lions strong,", "They wheeled until the dust rolled thick and long."]}, {"id": "B14.24.31", "lines": ["Then Rostam swung his gorz with iron force,", "And struck his foeman’s head from his wheeling horse."]}, {"id": "B14.24.32", "lines": ["All present heard the crash; it stunned his brain,", "His eyes grew dazed, his hand let slip the rein."]}, {"id": "B14.24.33", "lines": ["He swerved toward the right, turned from the fray,", "And cried aloud, “This is an evil day!”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.34", "lines": ["Rostam had thought that, from so hard a blow,", "The brains through both ears down his chest would flow."]}, {"id": "B14.24.35", "lines": ["But since he kept his seat, brave Rostam prayed", "To God, whose hand sustains what He has made:"]}, {"id": "B14.24.36", "lines": ["“O You exalted over fortune’s wheel,", "All-seeing Lord, whose boundless mercies heal,"]}, {"id": "B14.24.37", "lines": ["If I fight unjustly, when I leave this strife,", "My soul shall find no joy in the next life."]}, {"id": "B14.24.38", "lines": ["Then let fierce Puladvand release in death", "My soul from bondage; I yield up my breath."]}, {"id": "B14.24.39", "lines": ["But if Afrasiab has done the wrong,", "Preserve my life and skill, and keep me strong."]}, {"id": "B14.24.40", "lines": ["For if today I perish by his might,", "No champion of Iran remains to fight."]}, {"id": "B14.24.41", "lines": ["No craftsman, farmer, realm, or field shall stand,", "Nor dust remain within Iran’s broad land.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.42", "lines": ["Then Rostam turned to Puladvand, his foe,", "And cried, “What harm has come from this one blow?"]}, {"id": "B14.24.43", "lines": ["Your hands let fall the black reins in disgrace;", "Dismount, you Div, and beg for life and grace!”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.44", "lines": ["Then Puladvand replied, “Your gorz’s might", "Has done no harm to me in this our fight.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.45", "lines": ["They closed once more, two warriors filled with rage,", "Their faces dark with hatred to engage."]}, {"id": "B14.24.46", "lines": ["Puladvand drew his diamond khanjar blade,", "And tried each trick and feint his cunning made."]}, {"id": "B14.24.47", "lines": ["The Babr-e Bayan turned aside each blow;", "The Div’s own heart with bitter rage did grow."]}, {"id": "B14.24.48", "lines": ["His weapon failed; he raged against his fate,", "And cursed the turning heavens in his hate."]}, {"id": "B14.24.49", "lines": ["Distressed, he scanned the shoulders, neck, and frame", "Of Rostam, son of Zal, of mighty fame."]}, {"id": "B14.24.50", "lines": ["He said, “Put off your babr and khaftan here,", "Your dark helm too; take other battle-gear."]}, {"id": "B14.24.51", "lines": ["Put other armor on, that both be fair.”", "But Rostam said, “I keep the arms I wear."]}, {"id": "B14.24.52", "lines": ["Warriors do not trade their arms this way;", "Each keeps his own; so let it ever stay.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.53", "lines": ["Once more they clashed, both eager to subdue,", "Great Puladvand and Rostam, bold and true."]}, {"id": "B14.24.54", "lines": ["Against his babr, no weapon could prevail;", "Each stroke against his khaftan’s steel would fail."]}, {"id": "B14.24.55", "lines": ["Then Puladvand said, “Wrestling proves the strong;", "Like raging lions, let us grapple long."]}, {"id": "B14.24.56", "lines": ["Let each one grasp the other’s leather band,", "And learn which man lies worsted by whose hand."]}, {"id": "B14.24.57", "lines": ["Then we shall know whom fortune on the field", "Sends from the battle beaten, forced to yield.”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.58", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “Deceitful, craven foe,", "You cannot bear a warrior’s heavy blow."]}, {"id": "B14.24.59", "lines": ["Like foxes, you depend on trick and spell;", "Once in my arms, no charm will serve you well."]}, {"id": "B14.24.60", "lines": ["What wrestling art can save your neck from harm", "When I have locked it fast in either arm?”"]}, {"id": "B14.24.61", "lines": ["On this they both agreed and gave their word;", "Their pact was made before the ranks that heard:"]}, {"id": "B14.24.62", "lines": ["No man from either army should draw near", "To help his champion with sword or spear."]}, {"id": "B14.24.63", "lines": ["They dismounted and stood upon the ground,", "And paused to breathe while armies watched around."]}, {"id": "B14.25.1", "lines": ["Those two exalted warriors, bent on fight,", "Prepared to wrestle there before all sight."]}, {"id": "B14.25.2", "lines": ["They swore that none from either side would dare", "To intervene between the wrestling pair."]}, {"id": "B14.25.3", "lines": ["Half a farsang lay between each array,", "While stars looked down upon the fateful fray."]}, {"id": "B14.25.4", "lines": ["Then Puladvand and matchless Rostam closed,", "Two grim, strong lions, each to each opposed."]}, {"id": "B14.25.5", "lines": ["They felt each other out and took firm hold", "Of leather belts, those warriors fierce and bold."]}, {"id": "B14.25.6", "lines": ["When Shideh saw that chest and neck, he sighed;", "A cold breath from his liver rose and died."]}, {"id": "B14.25.7", "lines": ["He told his father, “See that mighty frame;", "Rostam the Div-binder; you know his name."]}, {"id": "B14.25.8", "lines": ["By strength and prowess he will cast to dust", "Our champion, the mighty chief we trust."]}, {"id": "B14.25.9", "lines": ["You soon will see our soldiers turn in flight;", "Do not contend against the sky’s old might.”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.10", "lines": ["His father said, “My heart is filled with dread;", "Your words have stirred confusion in my head."]}, {"id": "B14.25.11", "lines": ["Go watch how Puladvand now wrestles, bold,", "And see how well his grips maintain their hold."]}, {"id": "B14.25.12", "lines": ["Go counsel him in Turkish; he may throw", "The elephantine Rostam down below."]}, {"id": "B14.25.13", "lines": ["Tell him, ‘Once you have thrown him at your feet,", "Let your drawn sword make that defeat complete.’”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.14", "lines": ["But Shideh said, “This is not what the king", "Agreed before us in the open ring."]}, {"id": "B14.25.15", "lines": ["If you grow rash and break the oath you swore,", "No worthy deed will crown you anymore."]}, {"id": "B14.25.16", "lines": ["Do not turn this clear water black; beware", "The fault-finder, who waits to lay you bare.”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.17", "lines": ["Afrasiab then turned against his son,", "And cursed him; faith in him he now had none."]}, {"id": "B14.25.18", "lines": ["He said, “If Puladvand should fall today,", "No warrior in our ranks will get away."]}, {"id": "B14.25.19", "lines": ["Your tongue is valiant, but your arm is still;", "You speak with courage, not with warrior skill.”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.20", "lines": ["He plied his reins and lion-like drew near", "The two great warriors whom the ranks could hear."]}, {"id": "B14.25.21", "lines": ["He watched their struggle, heard their thunder roar,", "As those two champions strained and wrestled more."]}, {"id": "B14.25.22", "lines": ["He said to Puladvand, “Great lion, throw", "This man in wrestling; bring your foeman low."]}, {"id": "B14.25.23", "lines": ["Then split his liver with your khanjar’s bite;", "We need no boasting, only deeds in fight.”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.24", "lines": ["Giv heard the king urge treachery aloud,", "And spurred his charger through the watching crowd."]}, {"id": "B14.25.25", "lines": ["Because the foe had broken faith and word,", "He came in haste, his heart to battle stirred."]}, {"id": "B14.25.26", "lines": ["He said, “What order do you give your band?", "Your loyal warriors wait upon your hand."]}, {"id": "B14.25.27", "lines": ["See fierce Afrasiab approaching near;", "He urges treachery where all can hear."]}, {"id": "B14.25.28", "lines": ["He prompts him now, against the wrestling pact,", "To use his khanjar in the very act.”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.29", "lines": ["But Rostam said, “In battle I am tried;", "In wrestling, I let patience be my guide."]}, {"id": "B14.25.30", "lines": ["What do you fear? Why do your hearts so quake?", "Why should this one man make your spirits break?"]}, {"id": "B14.25.31", "lines": ["Now I shall bring his head from heaven’s height,", "And cast fierce Puladvand to dust outright."]}, {"id": "B14.25.32", "lines": ["But if my hand lacks strength to cast him low,", "Why should your needless fear distress me so?"]}, {"id": "B14.25.33", "lines": ["If this witless sorcerer breaks his sworn word,", "And tramples on God’s pact, which you all heard,"]}, {"id": "B14.25.34", "lines": ["Why fear to break the pact he has overthrown?", "Upon his own head is the dust now thrown.”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.35", "lines": ["Then lion-like, great Rostam seized his foe,", "That nahang, chest and neck, and laid him low."]}, {"id": "B14.25.36", "lines": ["He tore Puladvand upward from the ground,", "Like some great plane-tree wrenched from roots profound."]}, {"id": "B14.25.37", "lines": ["He raised him on his neck and flung him prone,", "Then praised Almighty God in solemn tone."]}, {"id": "B14.25.38", "lines": ["A shout rose from Iran’s triumphant throng;", "Tabira rolled as drummers marched along."]}, {"id": "B14.25.39", "lines": ["The karnay, cymbals, Indian daray bell", "Rose to the clouds in one triumphant swell."]}, {"id": "B14.25.40", "lines": ["They cried, “Now Puladvand lies lifeless! Where", "He fell, he writhes, a snake on earth laid bare!”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.41", "lines": ["Rostam thought, “No bone or joint can remain", "Unbroken after such a fall and pain."]}, {"id": "B14.25.42", "lines": ["His bones are broken; look upon his cheek;", "Its pallor is the shade of fenugreek.”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.43", "lines": ["A while his strength and spirit ebbed away;", "The world’s champion held him where he lay."]}, {"id": "B14.25.44", "lines": ["Rostam looked round, alert on every side,", "At both Iran’s and Turan’s ranks, spread wide."]}, {"id": "B14.25.45", "lines": ["He swung his leg across brave Rakhsh to ride,", "And left the Dragon’s body, thrust aside."]}, {"id": "B14.25.46", "lines": ["But once he reached the lion-hearted band,", "An arrow-swift glance flashed from Puladvand."]}, {"id": "B14.25.47", "lines": ["From dust he sprang into his saddle’s place;", "He seemed to roll the earth up in his race."]}, {"id": "B14.25.48", "lines": ["He fled with all speed back to his king’s side,", "With heart oppressed and tears he could not hide."]}, {"id": "B14.25.49", "lines": ["Rostam saw Puladvand alive, and found", "The troops dispersed across the battleground."]}, {"id": "B14.25.50", "lines": ["His heart grew tight; he urged his troops ahead,", "Then called old Gudarz, Keshvad’s son, and said:"]}, {"id": "B14.25.51", "lines": ["“Send down a shower of arrows; let them rain", "Like clouds of spring across the battle-plain.”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.52", "lines": ["Bijan held one wing, Giv the other flank,", "While Rohham, Gorgin, filled each ordered rank."]}, {"id": "B14.25.53", "lines": ["Their blades flashed fire across the battle-haze,", "And with their khanjars set the world ablaze."]}, {"id": "B14.25.54", "lines": ["Then Puladvand cried out before his train,", "“With throne, wealth, fame all lost, what can we gain?"]}, {"id": "B14.25.55", "lines": ["Why should we give our heads to wind in war,", "Or think of battle as we did before?”"]}, {"id": "B14.25.56", "lines": ["He drove his troops ahead and fled from sight,", "His life-cord all but snapped by Rostam’s might."]}, {"id": "B14.26.1", "lines": ["Then Piran said, “Afrasiab, hear me:", "The world’s broad surface rolls just like the sea."]}, {"id": "B14.26.2", "lines": ["Did I not say, ‘We cannot linger here,", "Secure from Rostam, whose fierce hand we fear’?"]}, {"id": "B14.26.3", "lines": ["You spilled that dear youth’s blood, and your fierce dart", "Has pierced and wounded each devoted heart."]}, {"id": "B14.26.4", "lines": ["How will you fare? No champions remain,", "And Puladvand the Div has left the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.26.5", "lines": ["Iran’s men, more than a hundred thousand strong,", "On armored chargers press the ranks along."]}, {"id": "B14.26.6", "lines": ["The lion-hearted Rostam leads their band;", "The air rains arrows; blood has drowned the land."]}, {"id": "B14.26.7", "lines": ["From sea and plain, from mountain, field, and height,", "Our warriors gathered, eager for the fight."]}, {"id": "B14.26.8", "lines": ["When men had failed, we summoned Divs to aid;", "Such war and tumult, such a din they made!"]}, {"id": "B14.26.9", "lines": ["But now that Rostam comes, no refuge stands;", "No course but flight remains within these lands."]}, {"id": "B14.26.10", "lines": ["Beyond far Chin you must seek out a place,", "If earth can spare you any room or space."]}, {"id": "B14.26.11", "lines": ["Leave troops arranged for battle here, and flee;", "Take your chosen companions toward the sea.”"]}, {"id": "B14.26.12", "lines": ["The king saw battle hopeless; he withdrew,", "And took the course that Piran pointed to."]}, {"id": "B14.26.13", "lines": ["They left his flag, but he himself was gone;", "Toward Chin and far Machin he hastened on."]}, {"id": "B14.26.14", "lines": ["The armies met each other face to face;", "The earth became a dark cloud in that place."]}, {"id": "B14.26.15", "lines": ["Then Rostam cried, his voice above the fray:", "“Put bow and arrow, all your spears, away."]}, {"id": "B14.26.16", "lines": ["Fight with the gorz and scimitar instead;", "Make good the fame your noble deeds have spread."]}, {"id": "B14.26.17", "lines": ["Does any leopard turn from prey in fear", "When at its resting place the prey is near?”"]}, {"id": "B14.26.18", "lines": ["The soldiers roared, their cries above the fight;", "They left their spears upon the mountain height."]}, {"id": "B14.26.19", "lines": ["They choked each field and valley with the slain;", "No passage could be found across the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.26.20", "lines": ["Some came to beg for quarter where they stood;", "Some fled along the roads fast as they could."]}, {"id": "B14.26.21", "lines": ["No shepherd stood; the scattered flock had fled;", "The plain lay thick with handless, headless dead."]}, {"id": "B14.26.22", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “Enough have now been slain.", "Time gives its lot to others in its train."]}, {"id": "B14.26.23", "lines": ["At times it brings us poison in its wake;", "At times a nush-daru for us to take."]}, {"id": "B14.26.24", "lines": ["Put off your battle-clothes; let all men strive", "To make good deeds increase and goodness thrive."]}, {"id": "B14.26.25", "lines": ["Why bind your hearts to this brief lodging here,", "Whose head and foot to sages are not clear?"]}, {"id": "B14.26.26", "lines": ["At times the world shows Ahriman’s dark spite,", "Then blooms, a bride in color, scent, and light."]}, {"id": "B14.26.27", "lines": ["Choose harmlessness and quiet; is there one", "Who rates a curse above a blessing? None.”"]}, {"id": "B14.26.28", "lines": ["He sent the Shah dinars, new robes in train,", "With slaves, steeds, war-elephants from the plain."]}, {"id": "B14.26.29", "lines": ["For his own share he chose the crowns they bore,", "With musk and ambergris from all that store."]}, {"id": "B14.26.30", "lines": ["He gave the troops the rest; then sought to trace", "Afrasiab through roads and each pathless place."]}, {"id": "B14.26.31", "lines": ["No trace of Afrasiab could be found", "On mountain, plain, in water, on dry ground."]}, {"id": "B14.26.32", "lines": ["Iran laid waste each palace he had known,", "And all his banquet-halls were overthrown."]}, {"id": "B14.26.33", "lines": ["Then Rostam burned his thriving towns; the light", "Of that great blaze lit all the world in sight."]}, {"id": "B14.27.1", "lines": ["From Turan they prepared to bear away", "Fine arms and treasure, thrones in rich array."]}, {"id": "B14.27.2", "lines": ["They sought and found much treasure on the way,", "Then hastened toward Iran without delay."]}, {"id": "B14.27.3", "lines": ["They found such herds of camels, steeds in train,", "That none for lack of mounts could now complain."]}, {"id": "B14.27.4", "lines": ["The karnay roared; the bells rang on the road,", "And Indian daray sounded as they strode."]}, {"id": "B14.27.5", "lines": ["They turned their faces toward Iran’s broad lands,", "A perfumed force beneath bright-colored bands."]}, {"id": "B14.27.6", "lines": ["When news of Rostam reached the Shah at last,", "A wave of joy through court and city passed."]}, {"id": "B14.27.7", "lines": ["Iran’s tabira rang through heaven’s sphere:", "“The lord of babr and gopal now is here!”"]}, {"id": "B14.27.8", "lines": ["One common gladness spread among them all,", "Through every rank and station, none too small."]}, {"id": "B14.27.9", "lines": ["The Shah’s heart bloomed like Paradise above;", "He praised Almighty God with grateful love."]}, {"id": "B14.27.10", "lines": ["He bade the elephants be brought, then rode;", "The world in festive splendor round him glowed."]}, {"id": "B14.27.11", "lines": ["Wine, harp, and minstrelsy were sought that day,", "To grace the world in all its rich array."]}, {"id": "B14.27.12", "lines": ["The tabira and ney rang far and wide,", "When from his place the Shah set forth to ride."]}, {"id": "B14.27.13", "lines": ["The elephants’ broad faces shone with wine,", "With musk and saffron spread along the line."]}, {"id": "B14.27.14", "lines": ["Their drivers wore bright crowns, a sight divine,", "And from their ears hung rings of rich design."]}, {"id": "B14.27.15", "lines": ["They showered wine, saffron, and coins below,", "And sifted musk and ambergris on the show."]}, {"id": "B14.27.16", "lines": ["The city rang with minstrels everywhere;", "Their music rose and filled the festive air."]}, {"id": "B14.27.17", "lines": ["When matchless Rostam saw the Shah’s bright crown,", "He heard rejoicing ring through all the town."]}, {"id": "B14.27.18", "lines": ["He left his steed and bowed beside the throng;", "The Shah asked of his journey, hard and long."]}, {"id": "B14.27.19", "lines": ["He clasped him close and held him to his breast;", "A long while passed before he loosed his guest."]}, {"id": "B14.27.20", "lines": ["He blessed him many times and bade him ride;", "Then, hand in hand, they rode out side by side."]}, {"id": "B14.27.21", "lines": ["He said, “Why stayed you from our sight so long,", "And burned our hearts with love so deep and strong?”"]}, {"id": "B14.27.22", "lines": ["“Apart from you,” brave Rostam made reply,", "“Our hearts found no delight beneath the sky.”"]}, {"id": "B14.27.23", "lines": ["Tus, Fariborz, Gudarz, and Giv came through,", "With Rohham, Shidush, noble Gorgin too."]}, {"id": "B14.27.24", "lines": ["They rode behind Iran’s great Shah that day,", "While jewels rained upon them on the way."]}, {"id": "B14.27.25", "lines": ["At length they reached the palace, vast and bright,", "Where Kay Khosrow held court in royal might."]}, {"id": "B14.27.26", "lines": ["There Khosrow sat, and wore the royal crown,", "With Rostam and the chiefs of high renown."]}, {"id": "B14.27.27", "lines": ["Fariborz, Gudarz, Rohham, Giv sat near,", "With other men of name assembled here."]}, {"id": "B14.27.28", "lines": ["The Shah spoke of the war and battle plain,", "The Turanian ranks, their field, loss and gain."]}, {"id": "B14.27.29", "lines": ["Gudarz said, “Long the tale; let wine be poured;", "Rest first, then ask us of the war, my lord.”"]}, {"id": "B14.27.30", "lines": ["They spread the tables; smiling, Khosrow said,", "“The march has left you famished, barely fed.”"]}, {"id": "B14.27.31", "lines": ["He set the wine, called minstrels for the feast,", "Then asked of all that passed, from great to least:"]}, {"id": "B14.27.32", "lines": ["Of Puladvand, Afrasiab’s retreat,", "The twisted kamand, wrestling, and defeat;"]}, {"id": "B14.27.33", "lines": ["Of Khan, Kamus, and Ashkabus he said,", "Of elephants, of kousts, and ranks they led."]}, {"id": "B14.27.34", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “O Shah, no mother’s womb", "Will bear a chief like Rostam from its gloom."]}, {"id": "B14.27.35", "lines": ["Though Div or lion, dragon fierce and bold,", "None can escape once caught within his hold."]}, {"id": "B14.27.36", "lines": ["A thousand blessings on the king must fall,", "And on this famous Pahlevan most of all.”"]}, {"id": "B14.27.37", "lines": ["These words so pleased Khosrow, his joy rose high;", "Above the palace seemed his head to fly."]}, {"id": "B14.27.38", "lines": ["He said, “O Pahlevan, mature and wise,", "Your spirit shines; no sleep can cloud your eyes."]}, {"id": "B14.27.39", "lines": ["The man whom wisdom teaches on his way", "Is guarded by time’s turning, day by day."]}, {"id": "B14.27.40", "lines": ["Far from this Pahlevan be evil sight;", "May all his life be feasting and delight.”"]}, {"id": "B14.27.41", "lines": ["A month the Shah held wine and took his ease;", "Throne, crown, and court rejoiced in days like these."]}, {"id": "B14.27.42", "lines": ["With ney and strings they sang of Rostam’s might,", "In heroic songs they told his deeds in fight."]}, {"id": "B14.28.1", "lines": ["Great Rostam stayed a month with wine in hand,", "Before the Shah who ruled Iran’s broad land."]}, {"id": "B14.28.2", "lines": ["At length he said, “O wearer of the crown,", "Complete in virtue, wise, of high renown,"]}, {"id": "B14.28.3", "lines": ["The monarch’s heart is wise and kindly too,", "Yet Zal’s dear face I long again to view.”"]}, {"id": "B14.28.4", "lines": ["The mighty Shah unlocked his treasury-door,", "And brought out precious gifts from hidden store:"]}, {"id": "B14.28.5", "lines": ["Rubies and crowns and rings of royal light,", "With diba, robes from Shushtar, rich and bright;"]}, {"id": "B14.28.6", "lines": ["Slaves crowned and earringed, a hundred saddled steeds,", "A hundred burden-camels for his needs;"]}, {"id": "B14.28.7", "lines": ["Gold trays of musk and aloes were displayed,", "Two golden slippers and a gorz arrayed;"]}, {"id": "B14.28.8", "lines": ["With kingly jewels the golden gorz was graced,", "As fitting for a man so highly placed."]}, {"id": "B14.28.9", "lines": ["The Shah sent Rostam gifts, then rode beside", "The hero for two stages, stride for stride."]}, {"id": "B14.28.10", "lines": ["When Rostam saw the monarch’s weary air,", "He left his steed and bowed with loyal care."]}, {"id": "B14.28.11", "lines": ["He said farewell and left Iran that day,", "Then hastened home to Zabul straightaway."]}, {"id": "B14.28.12", "lines": ["The world obeyed the Shah’s commanding will,", "And all things moved as he desired them still."]}, {"id": "B14.28.13", "lines": ["This lengthy tale of great Kamus is done,", "No jot has fallen from my tale, not one."]}, {"id": "B14.28.14", "lines": ["Had I left out one word of all I tell,", "My soul would have a place in grief to dwell."]}, {"id": "B14.28.15", "lines": ["I am glad: Puladvand adds no steel-bound woe;", "Now hear how Rostam met Akvan, his foe."]}]}, {"id": "C1", "title": "Rostam and the Div Akvan", "summary": "6 sections · 236 couplets", "path": "/poem/c1/", "couplets": [{"id": "C1.1.1", "lines": ["Give worship to your Maker, and confess", "He made the soul and reason you possess."]}, {"id": "C1.1.2", "lines": ["Yet let this question stand through all our days:", "Can any tongue give God sufficient praise?"]}, {"id": "C1.1.3", "lines": ["All human knowledge ends in helplessness;", "Who sees its limits and feels no distress?"]}, {"id": "C1.1.4", "lines": ["Philosopher, for all your endless talk,", "The road you close is where I mean to walk."]}, {"id": "C1.1.5", "lines": ["The truest word declares that God is One;", "Speech adds nothing to Him, and silence none."]}, {"id": "C1.1.6", "lines": ["Whatever things may pass before your eyes,", "Your heart can never hold, though reason tries."]}, {"id": "C1.1.7", "lines": ["Walk then the beaten road with steady mind,", "Or endless argument will leave you blind."]}, {"id": "C1.1.8", "lines": ["Release from soul and body takes one breath;", "You prize yourself, though briefly spared from death."]}, {"id": "C1.1.9", "lines": ["Here you remain a little while, then roam", "Beyond this world and find another home."]}, {"id": "C1.1.10", "lines": ["Think first upon the Maker; let your praise", "Rise from the inward truth that guides your ways."]}, {"id": "C1.1.11", "lines": ["He keeps the turning heavens on their round,", "And He is guide where good and ill are found."]}, {"id": "C1.1.12", "lines": ["The world is full of wonders, vast and true;", "Their depths lie far beyond the mortal view."]}, {"id": "C1.1.13", "lines": ["Your soul is wondrous, and your body too;", "So make self-knowledge first in all you do."]}, {"id": "C1.1.14", "lines": ["Then study heaven turning overhead,", "Its changing signs before your sight are spread."]}, {"id": "C1.1.15", "lines": ["The rustic singer’s tale from times of old", "You may reject and question what it told."]}, {"id": "C1.1.16", "lines": ["The learned hear such stories and may doubt,", "Then weigh them closely, drawing meaning out."]}, {"id": "C1.1.17", "lines": ["Yet if you probe the inward sense concealed,", "You will accept the tale, its truth revealed."]}, {"id": "C1.1.18", "lines": ["So hear the ancient story now begin,", "Though humbler words may fail to draw you in."]}, {"id": "C1.2.1", "lines": ["The tale’s old minstrel says that Kay Khosrow,", "One morning made his rose-bright court to glow."]}, {"id": "C1.2.2", "lines": ["Beside the Shah sat Zangeh, Gostaham,", "Gudarz, and Barzin, Garshasp, seed of Jam."]}, {"id": "C1.2.3", "lines": ["With Giv and veteran Rohham near the king,", "Wise Kharrad sat, and Gorgin joined the ring."]}, {"id": "C1.2.4", "lines": ["They raised their goblets to the king of kings,", "And joy rang through the court from cups and strings."]}, {"id": "C1.2.5", "lines": ["An hour of daylight passed; then from the plain", "A herdsman came before the royal train."]}, {"id": "C1.2.6", "lines": ["He kissed the ground before the royal throne,", "Then spoke before the Shah in humble tone:"]}, {"id": "C1.2.7", "lines": ["“A Gur-e-Khar has come among the herd,", "Loosed like a Div whose chains no longer gird."]}, {"id": "C1.2.8", "lines": ["A savage lion seems to have drawn near;", "He breaks our horses’ necks and spreads great fear."]}, {"id": "C1.2.9", "lines": ["His coat shines bright, as though the sun had rolled", "Across his hide and steeped the beast in gold."]}, {"id": "C1.2.10", "lines": ["From neck to tail one stripe runs down his back,", "As dark as musk, from end to end pure black."]}, {"id": "C1.2.11", "lines": ["His haunches, shoulders, chest, and nimble feet", "Proclaim a noble racer, swift and fleet.”"]}, {"id": "C1.2.12", "lines": ["Khosrow perceived it was no common steed,", "For no wild ass could ever match that breed."]}, {"id": "C1.2.13", "lines": ["Khosrow had seen the world, and had been told", "By watchful men what that far spring did hold:"]}, {"id": "C1.2.14", "lines": ["That there the Div named Akvan made his lair,", "And filled the world with clamor and despair;"]}, {"id": "C1.2.15", "lines": ["And that the herdsman let his horses graze", "Loose on the resting-ground for nights and days."]}, {"id": "C1.2.16", "lines": ["He told the herdsman: “This is no wild ass;", "I know the matter. Go, and let it pass.”"]}, {"id": "C1.2.17", "lines": ["He turned then to the chiefs in solemn tone:", "“Which lion-hearted man will ride alone?"]}, {"id": "C1.2.18", "lines": ["Among you, choose a man of fearless brow,", "To undertake this deed and answer now.”"]}, {"id": "C1.2.19", "lines": ["He scanned the warriors; none would take the quest,", "For only Zal’s son stood above the rest."]}, {"id": "C1.2.20", "lines": ["Since only Rostam could perform the deed,", "Khosrow composed a summons, urged by need."]}, {"id": "C1.2.21", "lines": ["He shaped its words with justice, love, and care,", "And gave it into Gorgin’s hand to bear."]}, {"id": "C1.2.22", "lines": ["He said, “Go swiftly to brave Rostam’s side;", "Like smoke through road and valley, onward ride."]}, {"id": "C1.2.23", "lines": ["Do not let sleep detain you on the way,", "Nor pause in Zabulistan one whole day."]}, {"id": "C1.2.24", "lines": ["Greet Rostam warmly with these words from me:", "‘Live long beneath the wheel of heaven, free.’"]}, {"id": "C1.2.25", "lines": ["When he has read the letter to its end,", "Then speak as from his sovereign and his friend:"]}, {"id": "C1.2.26", "lines": ["‘From you comes all my color and my scent;", "Come, show your face; let not an hour be spent."]}, {"id": "C1.2.27", "lines": ["Arise and come; make haste at Khosrow’s call,", "When these words reach you, do not wait at all.’”"]}, {"id": "C1.2.28", "lines": ["Then Gorgin hurried like a storming gale,", "As though a Gur-e-Khar pursued his trail."]}, {"id": "C1.2.29", "lines": ["He came at last where Zabul’s borders lie,", "And sought the chief, and bowed as he came by."]}, {"id": "C1.2.30", "lines": ["Rostam then read the summons that he showed,", "And asked him how he journeyed on the road."]}, {"id": "C1.2.31", "lines": ["He read the Shah’s command, and did not wait,", "But came in pride and splendor to the gate."]}, {"id": "C1.2.32", "lines": ["He came to court and kissed the royal ground,", "Then blessed the Shah, in royal fortune crowned."]}, {"id": "C1.2.33", "lines": ["He said: “O Shah, you called; I stand prepared,", "And for your will my ready arm is bared."]}, {"id": "C1.2.34", "lines": ["May goodness and dominion be your own.", "I am come: say what task you would make known.”"]}, {"id": "C1.2.35", "lines": ["He welcomed him and gave him honored place", "Upon the throne beside him, speaking grace:"]}, {"id": "C1.2.36", "lines": ["“O Pahlevan, live glad in heart and soul;", "This day is blessed, for I behold you whole."]}, {"id": "C1.2.37", "lines": ["My fortune rests upon your prudent mind;", "This task requires a strength of rarest kind."]}, {"id": "C1.2.38", "lines": ["For this I called you, strongest of the strong;", "Do not reject the task or count it wrong."]}, {"id": "C1.2.39", "lines": ["If this command of mine be no hard thing,", "Then hear what news a herdsman brought your king."]}, {"id": "C1.2.40", "lines": ["A herdsman says a Gur-e-Khar has strayed", "Among that very herd.” And so conveyed"]}, {"id": "C1.2.41", "lines": ["From end to end the story he had heard,", "Repeating to the chief the herdsman’s word."]}, {"id": "C1.2.42", "lines": ["He added: “Weigh yourself in this fight too,", "And set your strength against what it may do."]}, {"id": "C1.2.43", "lines": ["Go, and be watchful; guard yourself from him:", "It may be Ahriman, whose hate is grim.”"]}, {"id": "C1.2.44", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered: “With your fortune’s aid,", "The servant of your throne is not afraid."]}, {"id": "C1.2.45", "lines": ["No Div, no lion, and no dragon male", "Escapes my sword’s sharp edge when I assail.”"]}, {"id": "C1.3.1", "lines": ["He went forth like a lion to the chase,", "With kamand coiled, and Rakhsh at dragon-pace."]}, {"id": "C1.3.2", "lines": ["He made toward the plain the herdsman knew,", "Where, loosed among the herd, that creature flew."]}, {"id": "C1.3.3", "lines": ["Three days he searched the plain among the steeds;", "The fourth revealed the source of monstrous deeds."]}, {"id": "C1.3.4", "lines": ["A creature rushed like some fierce northern blast,", "Its golden body through the pasture passed."]}, {"id": "C1.3.5", "lines": ["Its hide was bright, yet mischief burned below;", "So Rostam spurred swift Rakhsh against the foe."]}, {"id": "C1.3.6", "lines": ["But when he came up close, his purpose turned,", "And other counsel in his thought he learned."]}, {"id": "C1.3.7", "lines": ["He thought: “No sword is needed for this prey;", "My kamand’s coil will seize the beast today."]}, {"id": "C1.3.8", "lines": ["The khanjar shall not spoil it. That is clear:", "Alive before the Shah it shall appear.”"]}, {"id": "C1.3.9", "lines": ["He cast the royal kamand through the air,", "Intent to seize the creature unaware."]}, {"id": "C1.3.10", "lines": ["The nimble Gur-e-Khar perceived the throw,", "Then vanished as the kamand came down low."]}, {"id": "C1.3.11", "lines": ["Then Rostam knew: “No Gur-e-Khar can fade", "As this one fades. Not force, but craft, must aid."]}, {"id": "C1.3.12", "lines": ["This is Akvan himself, concealed by art;", "A breath of steel must pierce his hidden heart."]}, {"id": "C1.3.13", "lines": ["A wise man told me where the Div abides,", "And that within a gur’s own skin he hides."]}, {"id": "C1.3.14", "lines": ["My sword shall stain his yellow body red,", "And strike before the Div can yet have fled.”"]}, {"id": "C1.3.15", "lines": ["Just then the Gur-e-Khar came into view,", "And forth the sepahbod’s swift charger flew."]}, {"id": "C1.3.16", "lines": ["He strung his bow astride the wind-swift horse,", "And loosed a shaft like Azargashasp’s force."]}, {"id": "C1.3.17", "lines": ["Yet as he bent his royal bow to aim,", "The Gur-e-Khar had vanished like a flame."]}, {"id": "C1.3.18", "lines": ["Then Rostam searched the pasture far and wide,", "Three days and nights, and rest was still denied."]}, {"id": "C1.3.19", "lines": ["Thirst took him, and a hunger sharp and deep;", "His head sank on the saddle-bow in sleep."]}, {"id": "C1.3.20", "lines": ["At last he found a rose-bright spring in sight,", "And hastened toward that water, clear and bright."]}, {"id": "C1.3.21", "lines": ["He watered Rakhsh, dismounting by the brink;", "And weariness let his tired eyelids sink."]}, {"id": "C1.3.22", "lines": ["He kept the Babr-e Bayan on, and wound", "His kamand on his arm, his girdle bound."]}, {"id": "C1.3.23", "lines": ["He loosed the saddle-girth, and for his bed", "He laid the khadang bow beneath his head."]}, {"id": "C1.3.24", "lines": ["Rakhsh found his pasture and his sleeping-place;", "The saddle-felt lay by the water’s face."]}, {"id": "C1.4.1", "lines": ["When from afar Akvan saw Rostam sleep,", "He came like wind across the meadow’s sweep."]}, {"id": "C1.4.2", "lines": ["He dug the earth around where Rostam lay,", "Then raised the ground and bore it far away."]}, {"id": "C1.4.3", "lines": ["When Rostam woke, his heart was seized with dread,", "And fear and wonder through his spirit spread."]}, {"id": "C1.4.4", "lines": ["He thought: “This foul Div’s cunning has prevailed;", "My sword and strength in empty air have failed."]}, {"id": "C1.4.5", "lines": ["Alas my heart, my strength, my arm!” he cried;", "“The world is wrecked if I am cast aside."]}, {"id": "C1.4.6", "lines": ["If he destroys me, all my strength outdone,", "The world will grieve, for Akvan’s will has won."]}, {"id": "C1.4.7", "lines": ["Afrasiab shall gain his heart’s desire;", "Iran’s bright throne and crown will fall to fire."]}, {"id": "C1.4.8", "lines": ["Tus, Gudarz, and Khosrow shall be no more,", "No tabiras, no elephants of war."]}, {"id": "C1.4.9", "lines": ["Through me the world will suffer grief and woe;", "Who now will strike this cursed and cunning foe?”"]}, {"id": "C1.4.10", "lines": ["Then Akvan said to Rostam in his plight:", "“O Piltan, name your wish from this great height."]}, {"id": "C1.4.11", "lines": ["Choose where to fall before I let you go:", "Which place would you prefer, so far below?"]}, {"id": "C1.4.12", "lines": ["Shall I cast you on mountains or the wave?", "Where will you fall, far from your comrades brave?”"]}, {"id": "C1.4.13", "lines": ["Piltan gave thought to him, and weighed him well:", "The very air lay in that Div’s dark spell."]}, {"id": "C1.4.14", "lines": ["“If he should cast me on the mountain-stone,", "My body serves no more, nor flesh nor bone."]}, {"id": "C1.4.15", "lines": ["He acts against whatever words I say;", "No oath or promise turns him from his way."]}, {"id": "C1.4.16", "lines": ["For should I ask him: ‘Fling me in the sea,’ ", "His crooked will rejects my spoken plea;"]}, {"id": "C1.4.17", "lines": ["The contrary fiend will cast me down to break", "In pieces on the crags, for malice’ sake."]}, {"id": "C1.4.18", "lines": ["I need a ruse to thwart his sly design;", "His guile must meet its equal now in mine.”"]}, {"id": "C1.4.19", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “The wise of Chin uphold", "A story of this matter, long since told:"]}, {"id": "C1.4.20", "lines": ["Soroush will never greet his soul above;", "No gate of paradise will show him love."]}, {"id": "C1.4.21", "lines": ["He stays in misery, denied the sky,", "And finds no welcome when his soul must fly."]}, {"id": "C1.4.22", "lines": ["Do not cast me into the ocean’s foam,", "To make the fishes’ jaws my final home."]}, {"id": "C1.4.23", "lines": ["Fling me instead upon the mountain high,", "Where lions tear the flesh of those who die.”"]}, {"id": "C1.4.24", "lines": ["The Div, when he had heard, sent up a roar", "That rolled toward the water’s distant shore."]}, {"id": "C1.4.25", "lines": ["“You shall lie hidden in both worlds,” said he;", "“I cast you where no living man can be."]}, {"id": "C1.4.26", "lines": ["In misery there, shall you still abide,", "The other dwelling to your soul denied.”"]}, {"id": "C1.4.27", "lines": ["Defying all that Rostam spoke aloud,", "He hurled him toward the sea from out the cloud."]}, {"id": "C1.4.28", "lines": ["He reached the water, and his blade came out;", "The nahang scattered, circling him in rout."]}, {"id": "C1.4.29", "lines": ["He struck out with his feet and left hand free,", "While with his right he battled through the sea."]}, {"id": "C1.4.30", "lines": ["He fought and swam and would not rest at all,", "And met each wave as heroes meet a wall."]}, {"id": "C1.4.31", "lines": ["If valor could avert the fatal day,", "Time would not sweep great Rostam’s name away."]}, {"id": "C1.4.32", "lines": ["But know that turning time is ever thus:", "At times it nourishes, then poisons us."]}, {"id": "C1.4.33", "lines": ["He struggled bravely through the waters vast,", "And, landing, praised the Maker, danger passed."]}, {"id": "C1.4.34", "lines": ["He thanked Yazdan who kept him safe from ill,", "And drew him from the sea by sovereign will."]}, {"id": "C1.4.35", "lines": ["He rested, loosed the girdle from his side,", "And by the spring the Babr-e Bayan dried."]}, {"id": "C1.4.36", "lines": ["When Babr-e Bayan and kamand were both dry,", "The savage Lion armed, his wrath still high."]}, {"id": "C1.4.37", "lines": ["He went back to the stream where he had slept,", "Across whose banks the Div’s destruction swept."]}, {"id": "C1.4.38", "lines": ["But glossy Rakhsh was nowhere in the field;", "Then Rostam’s heart with furious anger reeled."]}, {"id": "C1.4.39", "lines": ["He took the saddle up, and bridle too,", "And followed Rakhsh’s track till evening grew."]}, {"id": "C1.4.40", "lines": ["Such is the custom of this rugged sphere,", "That turns and gives no reason, year by year."]}, {"id": "C1.4.41", "lines": ["He went on foot, still hunting, till his eyes", "Fell on a meadow spread beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "C1.4.42", "lines": ["Within were running waters everywhere,", "Francolin and the ring-dove in the air."]}, {"id": "C1.4.43", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s herdsman slept within the glade,", "While Rakhsh among the royal horses strayed."]}, {"id": "C1.4.44", "lines": ["Rakhsh raged among the mares, a Div in wrath,", "And flung his neighing wide across their path."]}, {"id": "C1.4.45", "lines": ["Then Rostam cast his royal kamand wide,", "And caught proud Rakhsh and drew him to his side."]}, {"id": "C1.4.46", "lines": ["He brushed the dust from Rakhsh’s shining frame,", "Then saddled him, and blessed great Yazdan’s name."]}, {"id": "C1.4.47", "lines": ["He bridled him and mounted, set to ride,", "One hand upon the sword-hilt at his side."]}, {"id": "C1.4.48", "lines": ["He drove the royal herd from its abode,", "And called on Yazdan’s name along the road."]}, {"id": "C1.4.49", "lines": ["The head groom heard the tumult, and awoke", "In sudden terror, trembling as he spoke."]}, {"id": "C1.4.50", "lines": ["He ordered the horsemen swiftly to rise,", "And mount their steeds, alarmed by those wild cries."]}, {"id": "C1.4.51", "lines": ["They took their kamands and their bows in hand,", "To learn what foe had dared invade the land."]}, {"id": "C1.4.52", "lines": ["“Who dares to enter on this meadow-ground,", "With all these riders camped and armed around?”"]}, {"id": "C1.4.53", "lines": ["The horsemen pressed behind him, hot to tear", "The hide from Rostam’s back and strip it bare."]}, {"id": "C1.4.54", "lines": ["But Rostam saw them charging through the dust,", "And drew his sword to meet the riders’ thrust."]}, {"id": "C1.4.55", "lines": ["He roared, “I am great Rostam, Zal’s own son,", "And Sahm’s own grandson; face me, every one!”"]}, {"id": "C1.4.56", "lines": ["His sword cut down two-thirds of them in flight; ", "The herdsmen fled headlong from the hero’s might."]}, {"id": "C1.5.1", "lines": ["Afrasiab, amazed, rode swift that day", "To view the royal herds that grazed away."]}, {"id": "C1.5.2", "lines": ["Two thousand chiefs came riding in his train,", "With wine and rud, upon the watered plain."]}, {"id": "C1.5.3", "lines": ["Each year the herdsman let the horses graze;", "The king arrived; bare pastures met his gaze."]}, {"id": "C1.5.4", "lines": ["Then sudden clamor rose; the horses fled,", "While Rakhsh’s dust-cloud climbed above each head."]}, {"id": "C1.5.5", "lines": ["The aged herdsman rushed into his sight,", "Struck by an arrow, and half-mad with fright."]}, {"id": "C1.5.6", "lines": ["Amazed, he told the king in broken tone:", "“Great Rostam came and fought us all alone."]}, {"id": "C1.5.7", "lines": ["Alone he drove our herd off, and he slew", "So many of our people, and withdrew.”"]}, {"id": "C1.5.8", "lines": ["The Turks cried out: “He rides without a guard!", "To arms! Such shame has struck our people hard."]}, {"id": "C1.5.9", "lines": ["Are we so wretched, sunk in such disgrace,", "That one man sheds our blood before our face?"]}, {"id": "C1.5.10", "lines": ["He shames our name for manhood by this deed;", "We cannot let him take a single steed.”"]}, {"id": "C1.5.11", "lines": ["With four great elephants and fighting men,", "Afrasiab rode after him again."]}, {"id": "C1.5.12", "lines": ["When they drew near, Piltan took his bow, and came", "Upon the Turan ranks with rage aflame."]}, {"id": "C1.5.13", "lines": ["As clouds rain hail, he rained his arrows down,", "Then struck with steel and split each helm and crown."]}, {"id": "C1.5.14", "lines": ["When sixty gallant chiefs had fallen round,", "He cast his bow and sword upon the ground."]}, {"id": "C1.5.15", "lines": ["He rained his gorz like hail; and forty more", "Fell dead, till Afrasiab fled the war."]}, {"id": "C1.5.16", "lines": ["Four snow-white elephants he took as prize,", "And drove them through the ranks before their eyes."]}, {"id": "C1.5.17", "lines": ["The warriors of Turan sank in despair,", "For Rostam’s gorz kept thundering through the air."]}, {"id": "C1.5.18", "lines": ["Two farsangs, like a cloud of spring, he pressed", "Behind him, raining ruin without rest."]}, {"id": "C1.5.19", "lines": ["He turned back with the elephants and herd,", "And took the baggage-train without a word."]}, {"id": "C1.5.20", "lines": ["Yet when he reached the spring where he had lain,", "His valiant heart still burned with wrath and pain."]}, {"id": "C1.5.21", "lines": ["Then Akvan came before him, fierce and proud,", "And challenged him with bitter words aloud:"]}, {"id": "C1.5.22", "lines": ["“Have you not had your fill of grief and strife?", "You fled the sea and nahang’s claw with life."]}, {"id": "C1.5.23", "lines": ["You have returned to meet me in the fray;", "Now learn what fate has written for today."]}, {"id": "C1.5.24", "lines": ["No further battle shall your spirit know;", "No sword again from your strong hand shall go.”"]}, {"id": "C1.5.25", "lines": ["When peerless Rostam heard the Div’s loud cry,", "He roared back like a lion to the sky."]}, {"id": "C1.5.26", "lines": ["He loosed the twisted kamand from its ring,", "And cast it round the Div in one swift swing."]}, {"id": "C1.5.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam twisted round within his seat,", "And raised his gorz to make the stroke complete."]}, {"id": "C1.5.28", "lines": ["As though he swung a hammer in his hand,", "He smashed the Div and hurled him to the sand."]}, {"id": "C1.5.29", "lines": ["He crushed his head and brain with one fierce blow,", "Then leapt to earth beside his fallen foe."]}, {"id": "C1.5.30", "lines": ["The water-blue khanjar he drew, and through", "The Div’s thick neck he cut it, clean and true."]}, {"id": "C1.5.31", "lines": ["He praised the World-Creator, whose great might", "Had granted him the triumph in the fight."]}, {"id": "C1.5.32", "lines": ["Know this: whoever treads the path of ill, ", "And shows no thanks to Yazdan, heart or will,"]}, {"id": "C1.5.33", "lines": ["Whoever turns from virtue’s noble plan, ", "Count him a Div, and count him not a man!"]}, {"id": "C1.5.34", "lines": ["Let not the wise man mock the tale of old, ", "Nor miss the inner truth these figures hold:"]}, {"id": "C1.5.35", "lines": ["For evil men who walk upon the earth", "Are Divs in deed, whatever was their birth. "]}, {"id": "C1.5.36", "lines": ["To call Akvan a Div would shame the name;", "Let Akvan stand alone and bear his fame."]}, {"id": "C1.5.37", "lines": ["What say you, aged master, who have tried", "The world’s much heat and cold on every side?"]}, {"id": "C1.5.38", "lines": ["Who knows how many ups and downs remain", "That this long age will bring us, loss and gain?"]}, {"id": "C1.5.39", "lines": ["The pace of time, so long in its career,", "Lets words slip from the hand and disappear."]}, {"id": "C1.5.40", "lines": ["Who knows what heaven’s circling wheel will bring;", "The grief of war or joy’s returning spring?"]}, {"id": "C1.6.1", "lines": ["When Rostam cut the vile Div’s head away,", "He mounted Rakhsh and rode without delay."]}, {"id": "C1.6.2", "lines": ["He gathered all the herds of Turan’s train,", "And seized the spoils abandoned on the plain."]}, {"id": "C1.6.3", "lines": ["He drove the elephants and goods ahead,", "While news of victory followed where he led."]}, {"id": "C1.6.4", "lines": ["When tidings reached the Shah that Rostam came,", "Returned in triumph with that farr and fame,"]}, {"id": "C1.6.5", "lines": ["They said, “He sought a gur with kamand’s swing,", "But slew a Div and brought spoils to the king."]}, {"id": "C1.6.6", "lines": ["Now Div and elephant have come to hand;", "At sea a nahang, leopard on the land."]}, {"id": "C1.6.7", "lines": ["No lion, Div, or warrior of the field", "Can face his sword and hope to make him yield.”"]}, {"id": "C1.6.8", "lines": ["Khosrow prepared to welcome Rostam near;", "The warriors armed and gathered without fear."]}, {"id": "C1.6.9", "lines": ["The chiefs set on their helmets, and they spread", "The banner of the Shah high overhead."]}, {"id": "C1.6.10", "lines": ["With karnay and with daray borne in view,", "They marched to honor Rostam, brave and true."]}, {"id": "C1.6.11", "lines": ["When Rostam saw the monarch’s banner rise,", "He knew the Shah had come before his eyes."]}, {"id": "C1.6.12", "lines": ["He left his steed and bowed upon the ground,", "And shouts and elephants and koust rang round."]}, {"id": "C1.6.13", "lines": ["He laid his famous head upon the earth,", "And said: “O shining Khosrow, king by birth,"]}, {"id": "C1.6.14", "lines": ["A greater one like you should never ride", "To meet a lesser servant at his side."]}, {"id": "C1.6.15", "lines": ["I am the least of servants of your crown;", "You are the Shah of Kayanian’s renown.”"]}, {"id": "C1.6.16", "lines": ["With love then Khosrow blessed him: “May the wheel", "Of heaven be ally to your good steel."]}, {"id": "C1.6.17", "lines": ["The age recalls no other of your kind;", "Through you our soul has gladness, heart and mind.”"]}, {"id": "C1.6.18", "lines": ["The army’s chiefs approached him one by one,", "While Khosrow spurred his charger by Zal’s son."]}, {"id": "C1.6.19", "lines": ["The crown-bestowing Shah, with joy restored,", "Bade Rostam mount and ride beside his lord."]}, {"id": "C1.6.20", "lines": ["They reached the palace, glad in heart and will,", "With loyal love and royal kindness still."]}, {"id": "C1.6.21", "lines": ["The herds he shared among his loyal band,", "But kept proud Rakhsh, the steed of his command."]}, {"id": "C1.6.22", "lines": ["He sent the elephants, and they were shown", "To him whose crown and seat are his alone."]}, {"id": "C1.6.23", "lines": ["For one full week they feasted in the hall,", "With wine and rud and minstrels at the call."]}, {"id": "C1.6.24", "lines": ["There Rostam, seated with the Shah at wine,", "Recounted Akvan’s shape and dark design:"]}, {"id": "C1.6.25", "lines": ["“I never saw a gur so fine as he,", "So lofty, of such color, fair to see."]}, {"id": "C1.6.26", "lines": ["Yet when my sword had cleft his outer hide,", "No friend or foe could mourn the beast that died."]}, {"id": "C1.6.27", "lines": ["His head was like an elephant’s; his hair", "Hung long; his mouth held boar’s teeth everywhere."]}, {"id": "C1.6.28", "lines": ["His eyes were white, his lips were black as night;", "His shape was hateful to the human sight."]}, {"id": "C1.6.29", "lines": ["No camel ever matched his bulk and force;", "No beast alive could face him on his course."]}, {"id": "C1.6.30", "lines": ["The soil became a sea of streaming blood,", "And all the ground lay drowned beneath the flood."]}, {"id": "C1.6.31", "lines": ["My khanjar cut his head off; and the sky", "Took blood from him like rain, and flung it high.”"]}, {"id": "C1.6.32", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow marveled at it; and he laid", "The cup aside, and praise to Yazdan made."]}, {"id": "C1.6.33", "lines": ["For no one in the world has ever known", "Such wonders as this Pahlevan has shown."]}, {"id": "C1.6.34", "lines": ["In manly strength, in stature, and in face,", "No mortal ever held so high a place."]}, {"id": "C1.6.35", "lines": ["He said, “Had not the Maker, in His love,", "Dealt me my share of justice from above,"]}, {"id": "C1.6.36", "lines": ["I never would have had a man so bold,", "To hunt down Divs and beasts through heat and cold.”"]}, {"id": "C1.6.37", "lines": ["Thus much merry time in joy and wine was spent,", "With feast and tale that left them all content."]}, {"id": "C1.6.38", "lines": ["The third week, matchless Rostam longed for home,", "Victorious and glad, no more to roam."]}, {"id": "C1.6.39", "lines": ["“I yearn for Zal, the son of Sahm,” he cried,", "“This longing will not let my heart abide."]}, {"id": "C1.6.40", "lines": ["I must depart, yet I shall come in peace,", "Back to the court when longing finds release."]}, {"id": "C1.6.41", "lines": ["We still must ready vengeance for that wrong;", "Siavash’s blood has cried too loud, too long."]}, {"id": "C1.6.42", "lines": ["No herd of steeds can answer for the slain;", "The sword must still avenge our deeper pain.”"]}, {"id": "C1.6.43", "lines": ["The world’s great Shah unlocked his treasury gate,", "And brought out gold and gems of royal weight."]}, {"id": "C1.6.44", "lines": ["He filled a cup with treasure for his guest,", "And five gold-woven robes among the rest."]}, {"id": "C1.6.45", "lines": ["He gave him slaves from Rum with belts of gold,", "Attendants whose gold torques their necks enfold."]}, {"id": "C1.6.46", "lines": ["With carpets, ivory thrones, and rich brocade,", "Dinars and torques and crowns in bright parade."]}, {"id": "C1.6.47", "lines": ["The Shah gave all to Rostam: “Take this treasure,", "But stay with me one more day, rest at leisure."]}, {"id": "C1.6.48", "lines": ["Then afterward make ready to depart.”", "They drank that day with open hand and heart."]}, {"id": "C1.6.49", "lines": ["At dawn brave Rostam started on his way;", "Two farsangs with him rode the Shah that day,"]}, {"id": "C1.6.50", "lines": ["Then Rostam took his road; and turning back,", "The Shah rode homeward on the selfsame track."]}, {"id": "C1.6.51", "lines": ["The world was straightened wholly, and it grew", "To turn as he desired it, through and through."]}, {"id": "C1.6.52", "lines": ["Thus turns the ancient wheel, and thus it flies:", "Now like a bow it bends, now arrow-wise."]}, {"id": "C1.6.53", "lines": ["Thus ends the tale of Akvan and his bane;", "And Bijan’s grief awaits a later strain."]}]}, {"id": "C2", "title": "The Tale of Bijan and Manijeh", "summary": "29 sections · 1,386 couplets", "path": "/poem/c2/", "couplets": [{"id": "C2.1.1", "lines": ["The night was black as jet, a pitchy shroud;", "No Bahram, Kayvan, Tir behind that cloud."]}, {"id": "C2.1.2", "lines": ["The new moon came prepared to claim her own,", "Yet lost her brightness wandering alone."]}, {"id": "C2.1.3", "lines": ["Her waist was thin, her heart was full of pain,", "Two parts her crown was lapis, dulled with stain."]}, {"id": "C2.1.4", "lines": ["Through dust and tarnish she pursued her flight,", "While darkness spread its train across the night."]}, {"id": "C2.1.5", "lines": ["Night’s army over plain and meadow laid", "A carpet from the raven’s feather made."]}, {"id": "C2.1.6", "lines": ["Pitch seemed to stain the heavens’ shadowed face,", "And blot out every height and every place."]}, {"id": "C2.1.7", "lines": ["To Ahriman’s own eye, on every side,", "A black snake gaped its jaws and opened wide."]}, {"id": "C2.1.8", "lines": ["And when a cold wind rose, it seemed as though", "A Zangi raised the charcoal-dust to blow."]}, {"id": "C2.1.9", "lines": ["The garden and the stream’s lip seemed to be", "Like waves that heaved upon a pitch-black sea."]}, {"id": "C2.1.10", "lines": ["The turning sphere stood still upon its way;", "The sun’s own hands and feet grew slack that day."]}, {"id": "C2.1.11", "lines": ["The earth itself lay silent in its bed,", "With robes of pitch across its body spread."]}, {"id": "C2.1.12", "lines": ["The world’s heart trembled in the darkness round;", "No voice, no harp, no melody was found."]}, {"id": "C2.1.13", "lines": ["The watchman’s bell alone broke through the black;", "No bird’s voice rose, no beast gave answer back."]}, {"id": "C2.1.14", "lines": ["The world’s lips closed to fortune and to ill,", "And height and depth were swallowed, dim and still."]}, {"id": "C2.1.15", "lines": ["Amid that vigil’s grief, with tightened breast,", "I rose, estranged from comfort, sleep, and rest."]}, {"id": "C2.1.16", "lines": ["Within my house there lived a loving soul,", "To whom I called and bade her bring a coal."]}, {"id": "C2.1.17", "lines": ["She came into the garden, bright and fair,", "My darling idol, with a moonlit air."]}, {"id": "C2.1.18", "lines": ["She said: “What need of light? Why wake and weep?", "Will night not bring your wounded spirit sleep?”"]}, {"id": "C2.1.19", "lines": ["I said: “My idol, sleep will not draw near;", "Bring me a candle, sun-bright, strong, and clear."]}, {"id": "C2.1.20", "lines": ["Set it before me; spread the banquet board,", "Then take the chang, and let the wine be poured.”"]}, {"id": "C2.1.21", "lines": ["My darling brought me shining lamps and wine,", "With quince and orange, pomegranates fine."]}, {"id": "C2.1.22", "lines": ["She brought a goblet fit for royal state,", "Then poured the wine and touched the chang till late."]}, {"id": "C2.1.23", "lines": ["As though famed Harut had displayed his art,", "The darkness lost dominion in my heart."]}, {"id": "C2.1.24", "lines": ["My heart was victor over all desire;", "The dark night turned to daylight by that fire."]}, {"id": "C2.1.25", "lines": ["Now hear the words my kind companion said,", "Once we and the bright goblet had been wed."]}, {"id": "C2.1.26", "lines": ["That moon-faced sun addressed me with a smile:", "“May heaven crown your life through every trial."]}, {"id": "C2.1.27", "lines": ["Drink wine while from this ancient book I tell", "A tale whose roots in former ages dwell."]}, {"id": "C2.1.28", "lines": ["Before one portion reaches to your ear,", "The wheel’s strange working will itself appear."]}, {"id": "C2.1.29", "lines": ["Device and love and magic are its ground,", "Fit for the man of culture, grave and sound.”"]}, {"id": "C2.1.30", "lines": ["I said to that tall cypress: “Moon-faced friend,", "Tell me this tale tonight from end to end;"]}, {"id": "C2.1.31", "lines": ["Of the good and evil of the jarring wheel,", "Which brings on men each turn that it can deal;"]}, {"id": "C2.1.32", "lines": ["No man has learned its road or its design,", "Nor pain nor cure of it gives any sign.”"]}, {"id": "C2.1.33", "lines": ["She said: “The words you shall receive from me;", "Bring them to verse out of the Pahlavi.”"]}, {"id": "C2.1.34", "lines": ["“I set it into verse, and thanks are due", "To you, kind friend, who know the good and true.”"]}, {"id": "C2.1.35", "lines": ["That darling read the legends of old time;", "Now judge the verse I shaped from them in rhyme."]}, {"id": "C2.2.1", "lines": ["In the name of Yazdan of the wheeling sky,", "Lord of both Tir and Mehr that ride on high."]}, {"id": "C2.2.2", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow arose for vengeance’ sake,", "The world-maker a new world sought to make."]}, {"id": "C2.2.3", "lines": ["The throne and fortune passed from Turan’s hand,", "While Khosrow’s glory brightened Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "C2.2.4", "lines": ["His throne rose high and seemed to crown the sun;", "Then heaven joined Iran and moved as one."]}, {"id": "C2.2.5", "lines": ["He poured his love upon the noble race,", "And time returned; he washed in faith his face."]}, {"id": "C2.2.6", "lines": ["The prudent never make their resting bed", "Within a torrent’s course when waters fled."]}, {"id": "C2.2.7", "lines": ["Two parts of all the world grew straight and true", "For him who sought Siavash’s vengeance due."]}, {"id": "C2.2.8", "lines": ["One day he sat in gladness at the feast,", "And drank to every warrior, great and least."]}, {"id": "C2.2.9", "lines": ["The Shah’s high seat with brocade was arrayed,", "And the Kayanian cap upon him laid."]}, {"id": "C2.2.10", "lines": ["A ruby cup, wine-brimming, he held fast;", "His heart and ear upon the chang were cast."]}, {"id": "C2.2.11", "lines": ["Around the throne the noble warriors came,", "Fariborz first, and Gostaham by name."]}, {"id": "C2.2.12", "lines": ["Gudarz, the son of Keshvad, wise and grave,", "And Gorgin, Milad’s son, alert and brave."]}, {"id": "C2.2.13", "lines": ["There Farhad sat with Giv, and Shapur too,", "The brave, whose name for valor all men knew."]}, {"id": "C2.2.14", "lines": ["Tus son of Nohzar, breaker of the field,", "With Rohham there, and Bijan, none to yield."]}, {"id": "C2.2.15", "lines": ["The royal wine stood ready in each cup;", "All Khosrow-worshipping, they raised it up."]}, {"id": "C2.2.16", "lines": ["The wine like carnelian of Yemen glowed;", "Tulip and eglantine before them showed."]}, {"id": "C2.2.17", "lines": ["Before Khosrow stood slaves of fairy grace,", "With musk-black curls around each jasmine face."]}, {"id": "C2.2.18", "lines": ["The hall was spring itself in hue and scent;", "Before the marshal girded servants went."]}, {"id": "C2.2.19", "lines": ["A curtain-keeper came from where he stood", "And sought the marshal, wary as he should:"]}, {"id": "C2.2.20", "lines": ["“Irmanian chiefs are waiting at the door,", "From marches near Turan’s contested shore."]}, {"id": "C2.2.21", "lines": ["They seek the Shah and beg his royal ear;", "They traveled far for justice, grief, and fear.”"]}, {"id": "C2.2.22", "lines": ["The prudent chamberlain approached the throne,", "And made the waiting envoys’ trouble known."]}, {"id": "C2.2.23", "lines": ["He sought the Shah’s command with proper care,", "Then brought the envoys to the royal chair."]}, {"id": "C2.2.24", "lines": ["They came before the king with arms held low,", "And cried aloud of every grief and woe."]}, {"id": "C2.2.25", "lines": ["Their faces touched the ground as they drew near;", "They cried: “O conquering Shah, live year on year!"]}, {"id": "C2.2.26", "lines": ["May blessings crown your life through all your days;", "We come from distant lands and troubled ways."]}, {"id": "C2.2.27", "lines": ["We come from Khan-e-Irman’s borderland,", "Where Iran meets Turan on either hand."]}, {"id": "C2.2.28", "lines": ["Live long and sweetly, Shah, while ages flow;", "In every land let evil be laid low."]}, {"id": "C2.2.29", "lines": ["In every clime you rescue men from wrong;", "Across the seven realms your hand is strong."]}, {"id": "C2.2.30", "lines": ["We border Turan; that has bred our pain,", "While toward Iran there stretched a wooded plain."]}, {"id": "C2.2.31", "lines": ["What sown fields lay within it, and what rows", "Of fruiting trees where every harvest grows."]}, {"id": "C2.2.32", "lines": ["It was our grazing-ground, our root and stay;", "O Shah of Iran, give us right today."]}, {"id": "C2.2.33", "lines": ["Wild boars have gathered there in countless bands,", "And seized our woods, our pastures, and our lands."]}, {"id": "C2.2.34", "lines": ["Their tusks are like the elephant’s in might,", "Their bodies huge as hills that block the sight."]}, {"id": "C2.2.35", "lines": ["They cast all Irman into fear and grief,", "And leave our people begging for relief."]}, {"id": "C2.2.36", "lines": ["What ruin they have brought to field and glade,", "To cattle, crops, and every orchard’s shade!"]}, {"id": "C2.2.37", "lines": ["Trees past our reckoning their tusks divide,", "And split them gladly, cloven side from side."]}, {"id": "C2.2.38", "lines": ["Hard stones themselves would fail before each tusk;", "Our fortune seems to sink from dawn to dusk.”"]}, {"id": "C2.2.39", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow had heard the tale they told,", "His heart turned in him, and his grief took hold."]}, {"id": "C2.2.40", "lines": ["He pitied them in sorrow, and he cried", "To all the proud-necked champions, far and wide."]}, {"id": "C2.2.41", "lines": ["“My notables and men,” he said, “who seeks", "A name from all this gathering, and speaks?"]}, {"id": "C2.2.42", "lines": ["Who seeks the glory born of bold attack,", "And rides to drive those savage creatures back?"]}, {"id": "C2.2.43", "lines": ["Let him ride forth where tusks have torn the ground,", "And win his fame where savage boars are found."]}, {"id": "C2.2.44", "lines": ["Let him behead them with his shining sword;", "My gems and treasures shall be his reward.”"]}, {"id": "C2.2.45", "lines": ["At his command the treasurer took heed,", "And brought a golden salver for the deed."]}, {"id": "C2.2.46", "lines": ["They poured on it a jewel of every kind,", "Each mingled with the next, and none behind."]}, {"id": "C2.2.47", "lines": ["Ten steeds with golden bridles then appeared,", "And Kavus’s brand on every flank was seared."]}, {"id": "C2.2.48", "lines": ["In Roman brocade all were richly dressed;", "The famed of that great gathering addressed."]}, {"id": "C2.2.49", "lines": ["Then said the lord of earth: “My champions praised", "In every mouth, and by all blessing raised:"]}, {"id": "C2.2.50", "lines": ["Who, for my honor’s sake, will suffer this,", "And after make my treasure wholly his?”"]}, {"id": "C2.2.51", "lines": ["No warrior there replied with any word,", "Until the son of Giv stood, deeply stirred."]}, {"id": "C2.2.52", "lines": ["Bold Bijan rose before that noble line,", "And blessed the Shah beneath the royal sign:"]}, {"id": "C2.2.53", "lines": ["“May no new master ever hold your hall;", "May all the world obey your sovereign call."]}, {"id": "C2.2.54", "lines": ["I am the one who gives ear to your will;", "Your covenant runs through the whole world still."]}, {"id": "C2.2.55", "lines": ["At your command I undertake this task;", "My life and wealth are yours for all you ask.”"]}, {"id": "C2.2.56", "lines": ["But Giv, who stood nearby, was not content;", "His son’s bold words filled him with sharp dissent."]}, {"id": "C2.2.57", "lines": ["He blessed the Shah; then to his son he spoke:", "“What youthful pride is this, what reckless stroke?"]}, {"id": "C2.2.58", "lines": ["A youth may have both wit and inborn worth,", "But discipline must bring his gifts to birth."]}, {"id": "C2.2.59", "lines": ["He must know hardship, discipline, and pain,", "And learn what wounds and weary roads explain."]}, {"id": "C2.2.60", "lines": ["Walk not a road your feet have never tried,", "Nor fling your honor idly, out of pride.”"]}, {"id": "C2.2.61", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “Though young before your eyes,", "My judgment has the years that make Giv wise."]}, {"id": "C2.2.62", "lines": ["Accept these words of mine, and do not deem", "My purpose weak, or slighter than I seem."]}, {"id": "C2.2.63", "lines": ["I am Bijan, son of Giv, whose sword can break", "Whole armies; and the boar’s head I will take.”"]}, {"id": "C2.2.64", "lines": ["So Bijan spoke; the Shah grew glad, and then", "He said: “O skilled beyond all other men,"]}, {"id": "C2.2.65", "lines": ["The man who owns a servant such as you", "Holds up a shield when evils come in view.”"]}, {"id": "C2.2.66", "lines": ["He blessed him, and bestowed the charge, and so", "The venture was made his, and he might go."]}, {"id": "C2.2.67", "lines": ["To Gorgin, son of Milad, then he said:", "“Go with him to the water-barrier’s head,"]}, {"id": "C2.2.68", "lines": ["For Bijan has not learned the Turan way,", "Nor by what road those marches nearer lay."]}, {"id": "C2.2.69", "lines": ["Be guide to him, and helper at his need,", "And let your counsel go where he shall lead.”"]}, {"id": "C2.3.1", "lines": ["Bijan made ready to be on his way;", "He bound his belt, and set his helm that day."]}, {"id": "C2.3.2", "lines": ["He took Gorgin, the son of Milad, too,", "His match in strength, whose war-cry carried through."]}, {"id": "C2.3.3", "lines": ["He left the court with cheetahs trained to chase,", "While hawks flew overhead from place to place."]}, {"id": "C2.3.4", "lines": ["Like a foam-flinging elephant he sped,", "And tore from Gur-e-Khars and deer the head."]}, {"id": "C2.3.5", "lines": ["Wild sheep lay thick across the plain, hard-pressed,", "With cheetah claws sunk deep in heart and breast."]}, {"id": "C2.3.6", "lines": ["His kamand ringed the Gur-e-Khars in flight,", "Like Tahmuras binding Divs in royal might."]}, {"id": "C2.3.7", "lines": ["Above, the falcons seized the pheasant’s wing,", "And blood stained jasmine-leaves in early spring."]}, {"id": "C2.3.8", "lines": ["The road seemed like a garden, green and wide,", "And in this way they journeyed side by side."]}, {"id": "C2.3.9", "lines": ["They reached the place where that dark forest stood,", "And quickly they dismounted by the wood."]}, {"id": "C2.3.10", "lines": ["They kindled up a fearsome fire nearby,", "And sat, and fed the flame with branches dry."]}, {"id": "C2.3.11", "lines": ["They had a skin of wine with them that day,", "And one great female Gur-e-Khar their prey."]}, {"id": "C2.3.12", "lines": ["They roasted all of it upon the flame,", "And ate, and to the wine their counsel came."]}, {"id": "C2.3.13", "lines": ["They set their hands upon the wine, and each", "Grew merry with the other, speech for speech."]}, {"id": "C2.3.14", "lines": ["When wine had flushed the face of each man red,", "Gorgin looked round to find himself a bed."]}, {"id": "C2.3.15", "lines": ["Bijan replied: “No sleep has hold of me;", "Lie not down, brother. Wait a while, and see,"]}, {"id": "C2.3.16", "lines": ["That we may bind the work more firmly still,", "And ease the King’s heart of this weary ill."]}, {"id": "C2.3.17", "lines": ["When I come at the boars with arrows, keep", "Your station by the pool, where it runs deep."]}, {"id": "C2.3.18", "lines": ["Then when the tumult shakes the shadowed wood,", "Take up your gorz and strike as warriors should."]}, {"id": "C2.3.19", "lines": ["Whatever breaks away and slips my hand,", "Take off its head with one stroke where you stand.”"]}, {"id": "C2.3.20", "lines": ["Gorgin replied: “That was not our accord,", "Nor was it promised to the new-crowned lord."]}, {"id": "C2.3.21", "lines": ["You took the jewels, the silver and the gold;", "You bound your belt this battlefield to hold."]}, {"id": "C2.3.22", "lines": ["Now ask no help of me beyond this one:", "That I will show the place, and then have done.”"]}, {"id": "C2.3.23", "lines": ["Bijan heard this, amazed; you would have thought", "The whole wide world to darkness had been brought."]}, {"id": "C2.3.24", "lines": ["Then lion-like into the wood he passed;", "The bold man strung his bow and held it fast."]}, {"id": "C2.3.25", "lines": ["He roared like springtime thunder, harsh and loud;", "Leaves fell around him raining from the cloud."]}, {"id": "C2.3.26", "lines": ["Like a mad elephant he chased the boars,", "With tempered khanjar drawn amid their roars."]}, {"id": "C2.3.27", "lines": ["They charged him all together for the fight;", "Their tusks tore up the earth to left and right."]}, {"id": "C2.3.28", "lines": ["Their tusks struck fire out; and it seemed the world", "Was burning where those blazing tusks were hurled."]}, {"id": "C2.3.29", "lines": ["A boar came on like Ahriman; it tore", "And ripped the jowshan Bijan’s body wore."]}, {"id": "C2.3.30", "lines": ["Like a steel file that grates on flinty stone,", "It sharpened on a trunk each tusk of bone."]}, {"id": "C2.3.31", "lines": ["They raised the very fire of battle high,", "And from that meadow smoke went up the sky."]}, {"id": "C2.3.32", "lines": ["He drove the khanjar to its head, straight through;", "Its elephant body was cleft in two."]}, {"id": "C2.3.33", "lines": ["Those bold beasts turned fox-like before the blade,", "Their bodies bloodied and their war-heart stayed."]}, {"id": "C2.3.34", "lines": ["He cut their heads off with the khanjar’s blow,", "And bound them to Shabrang’s proud saddle-bow."]}, {"id": "C2.3.35", "lines": ["To lay their tusks before the Shah, he led", "His horse out to the road with every head."]}, {"id": "C2.3.36", "lines": ["To show Iran’s great champions his art,", "Heads from the fighting boars struck clean apart."]}, {"id": "C2.3.37", "lines": ["He heaped their mountain bodies on a wain,", "Till buffalo teams bent beneath the strain."]}, {"id": "C2.4.1", "lines": ["Malignant Gorgin, stung within like flame,", "In at one quarter of the wood he came."]}, {"id": "C2.4.2", "lines": ["The forest darkened in his jealous sight;", "He praised him, and made show of great delight."]}, {"id": "C2.4.3", "lines": ["That triumph grieved his heart; he feared disgrace,", "The ill repute that he must henceforth face."]}, {"id": "C2.4.4", "lines": ["Ahriman wrung his heart, and bent his will", "To work Bijan some mischief and some ill."]}, {"id": "C2.4.5", "lines": ["Such was his scheming—otherwise decreed;", "And of the World-Creator took no heed."]}, {"id": "C2.4.6", "lines": ["Who digs a pitfall in another’s way", "Must watch his own step closely every day."]}, {"id": "C2.4.7", "lines": ["For profit, name, and praise before the throne,", "He laid his snare where Bijan walked, unknown."]}, {"id": "C2.4.8", "lines": ["Bijan knew nothing of his deed or mind,", "And took his words for honest and for kind."]}, {"id": "C2.4.9", "lines": ["When they had drunk a little of the red,", "Bijan looked once at Gorgin, and he said:"]}, {"id": "C2.4.10", "lines": ["“How did you find my fighting? Is there one", "Who could have made such onset, and have won?”"]}, {"id": "C2.4.11", "lines": ["Then Gorgin said: “O fair-faced man of might,", "I never saw such mastery in a fight.”"]}, {"id": "C2.4.12", "lines": ["He added, “Bijan, Pahlevan of fame,", "Bright soul, renowned wherever men speak your name.”"]}, {"id": "C2.4.13", "lines": ["They drank two cups or three, and each man played,", "And of that hour a merry thing they made."]}, {"id": "C2.4.14", "lines": ["“O hero, whose whole heart is fierce in fight,", "Wise chief whose fortune shines with heaven’s light,"]}, {"id": "C2.4.15", "lines": ["Such deeds have come to you, and prospered far,", "By Yazdan’s power and by your lofty star."]}, {"id": "C2.4.16", "lines": ["Now hear the things I have to tell to you:", "I have been in these parts some seasons through."]}, {"id": "C2.4.17", "lines": ["With Rostam and with Giv and Gazhdaham,", "With Tus of Nohzar’s line and Gostaham,"]}, {"id": "C2.4.18", "lines": ["How many feats upon that plain we won,", "And over them the years and hours have run."]}, {"id": "C2.4.19", "lines": ["Those deeds raised high our names in every field,", "And won the praise King Khosrow’s heart revealed."]}, {"id": "C2.4.20", "lines": ["Not far from here a pleasure-garden lies,", "A two days’ road toward Tur before your eyes."]}, {"id": "C2.4.21", "lines": ["There you will see a plain of green and gold,", "A place to make a hero’s heart grow bold."]}, {"id": "C2.4.22", "lines": ["With woods and gardens, streams and scented breeze,", "A Pahlevan would take his joy at ease."]}, {"id": "C2.4.23", "lines": ["Its soil is painted silk, its air, it seems,", "Is musk; rosewater fills the silver streams."]}, {"id": "C2.4.24", "lines": ["The jasmine bends beneath its floral weight,", "While pheasants haunt the roses, mate by mate."]}, {"id": "C2.4.25", "lines": ["The roses there like painted idols rise,", "While bolbols worship under cypress skies."]}, {"id": "C2.4.26", "lines": ["Before long, all that river’s course will be", "Like Paradise itself for eye to see."]}, {"id": "C2.4.27", "lines": ["Fair faces over plain and hill are seen,", "And glad groups seated everywhere between."]}, {"id": "C2.4.28", "lines": ["Manijeh, Afrasiab’s daughter bright,", "Will make the garden blaze with solar light."]}, {"id": "C2.4.29", "lines": ["A hundred handmaids, perfect to behold,", "Will gather with her under tents of gold."]}, {"id": "C2.4.30", "lines": ["All Turan’s daughters, veiled and modest, fair,", "Like cypresses, with musk within their hair."]}, {"id": "C2.4.31", "lines": ["Their cheeks are roses, lips are ruby wine;", "Their languid eyes with sleepy beauty shine."]}, {"id": "C2.4.32", "lines": ["You will see all that plain adorned, and more,", "Like Chin’s great idol-temple heaped with store."]}, {"id": "C2.4.33", "lines": ["Now if we hasten toward that garden bright,", "And press the road, to reach it before night,"]}, {"id": "C2.4.34", "lines": ["We may take captive all those women fair,", "And win from Khosrow honor as our share.”"]}, {"id": "C2.4.35", "lines": ["So Gorgin spoke; in young Bijan, who heard,", "The Pahlevan’s own essence rose and stirred."]}, {"id": "C2.4.36", "lines": ["Now fame he sought, and now delight of days;", "Young, he stepped out in young men’s eager ways."]}, {"id": "C2.5.1", "lines": ["They set out on that tedious road ahead,", "One drawn by longing, one by vengeance led."]}, {"id": "C2.5.2", "lines": ["Bijan, the refuge of the warrior band,", "At day’s end reached the woods on either hand."]}, {"id": "C2.5.3", "lines": ["The two in Irman’s meadows two days spent,", "With hawk and cheetah, free, on pleasure bent."]}, {"id": "C2.5.4", "lines": ["Soon Gorgin heard Manijeh had come near;", "The plain took color like a cock’s eye, clear."]}, {"id": "C2.5.5", "lines": ["He told Bijan the princess held her feast,", "Where joy and song and wine had never ceased."]}, {"id": "C2.5.6", "lines": ["Then Bijan said to Gorgin: “I will start", "This going first, and take the forward part."]}, {"id": "C2.5.7", "lines": ["I go to view the banquet from a hill,", "And see Turanians at their feasting still."]}, {"id": "C2.5.8", "lines": ["First on their faces let me look, and see", "Which one of them comes pleasantest to me."]}, {"id": "C2.5.9", "lines": ["With burnished spearhead lifted to the sky,", "I turn the rein at once and pass them by."]}, {"id": "C2.5.10", "lines": ["Then we can choose the course that seems secure,", "Once what our eyes have witnessed makes us sure.”"]}, {"id": "C2.5.11", "lines": ["Then Gorgin said: “Go, and be glad; may you", "Be free of sorrow all your seasons through.”"]}, {"id": "C2.5.12", "lines": ["Then Bijan rose, his two cheeks flushing red,", "And set his business straight before he sped."]}, {"id": "C2.5.13", "lines": ["He bade the treasurer: “Bring the crown whose light", "My father wore to make the banquet bright."]}, {"id": "C2.5.14", "lines": ["Bring it. Our road lies to the banquet now,", "And it shall sit in splendor on my brow."]}, {"id": "C2.5.15", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow’s torque, the earring bright with gold,", "And Giv’s own armlet, jeweled to behold.”"]}, {"id": "C2.5.16", "lines": ["A glittering Roman tunic was his gown;", "A homa feather hung from off his crown."]}, {"id": "C2.5.17", "lines": ["They saddled Shabrang, noblest of the herd;", "He called for signet, belt, and arms to gird."]}, {"id": "C2.5.18", "lines": ["He set his foot to stirrup and he passed,", "Toward that thicket riding hot and fast."]}, {"id": "C2.5.19", "lines": ["He came in nearer, entered in the wood,", "And on his longing brooded where he stood."]}, {"id": "C2.5.20", "lines": ["He took his place beneath a cypress high,", "Lest harm should reach him from the burning sky."]}, {"id": "C2.5.21", "lines": ["He tied his horse, and from that place unseen", "He watched them, hidden where the boughs were green."]}, {"id": "C2.5.22", "lines": ["He saw them like Kandahar’s idols stand,", "Adorned like glad spring over all that land."]}, {"id": "C2.5.23", "lines": ["The whole plain sounded with the rud and song,", "And greeting to the soul seemed borne along."]}, {"id": "C2.5.24", "lines": ["When from her tent the maiden saw his face,", "She marked the chieftain’s stature, fire, and grace."]}, {"id": "C2.5.25", "lines": ["His cheeks were like Canopus, bright and fair,", "Or jasmine blooming through violet-dark hair."]}, {"id": "C2.5.26", "lines": ["The crown of his father was on his head;", "His breast blazed bright with Roman brocade’s thread."]}, {"id": "C2.5.27", "lines": ["Within the curtain, veiled, the maiden yearned;", "Toward that sunlike face her whole heart turned."]}, {"id": "C2.5.28", "lines": ["She sent her nurse off swiftly: “Go and see", "Who stands, moon-featured, by that cypress-tree."]}, {"id": "C2.5.29", "lines": ["Has Siavash arisen from the dead,", "Or does some fairy walk the earth instead?"]}, {"id": "C2.5.30", "lines": ["Ask him: ‘Who brought you to this distant place?", "What road has led you here with such a face?"]}, {"id": "C2.5.31", "lines": ["Are you a pari, or Siavash reborn,", "Whose beauty leaves the heart by longing torn?"]}, {"id": "C2.5.32", "lines": ["You kindled such a raging fire in me,", "I feel the Last Day has now come to be."]}, {"id": "C2.5.33", "lines": ["For year by year within this meadow-ground", "I keep the feast when each new spring comes round."]}, {"id": "C2.5.34", "lines": ["At this feast-ground I saw no one before;", "You only, moon of aspect—and no more.’”"]}, {"id": "C2.5.35", "lines": ["The nurse, when she had heard her lady’s word,", "Went lightly out, and quick her footstep stirred."]}, {"id": "C2.5.36", "lines": ["She came from there to Bijan’s resting place,", "And blessed him, bowing low before his face."]}, {"id": "C2.5.37", "lines": ["She gave Manijeh’s message clear and true;", "Both Bijan’s cheeks like roses opening grew."]}, {"id": "C2.5.38", "lines": ["And thus did Bijan answer in this strain:", "“O messenger of sweet speech, hear me plain;"]}, {"id": "C2.5.39", "lines": ["No Siavash am I, no fairy’s seed;", "From Iran am I come, of noble breed."]}, {"id": "C2.5.40", "lines": ["I am Giv’s son, and Bijan’s name is mine;", "From Iran came I, sharp-clawed, on the swine."]}, {"id": "C2.5.41", "lines": ["I cut their heads off, cast them on the road,", "To bring their tusks before the Shah’s abode."]}, {"id": "C2.5.42", "lines": ["But when I heard of this fair banquet-place,", "I did not haste toward Giv of Gudarz’ race."]}, {"id": "C2.5.43", "lines": ["Light-footed, I took up this forest way,", "And full of thought I let the other stay."]}, {"id": "C2.5.44", "lines": ["I hoped, if only in a dream, to find", "Afrasiab’s child, whose image filled my mind."]}, {"id": "C2.5.45", "lines": ["If you will stand my warrant in this thing,", "I give you this rich raiment of a king."]}, {"id": "C2.5.46", "lines": ["From me this jeweled cup shall be your prize,", "And in it, earrings gem-set for your eyes."]}, {"id": "C2.5.47", "lines": ["Now all this plain is decked before my view", "Like Chin’s idol-house, with treasure shining through."]}, {"id": "C2.5.48", "lines": ["Deal kindly, and I give a golden crown,", "An earring and a girdle of renown."]}, {"id": "C2.5.49", "lines": ["Then lead me to that lady, bright and fair,", "And win her heart for me with gentle care.”"]}, {"id": "C2.5.50", "lines": ["When Bijan spoke, the nurse turned back and went,", "And to Manijeh’s ear the secret sent:"]}, {"id": "C2.5.51", "lines": ["“Such is his face, and such his stature; so", "The World-Creator fashioned him, I know.”"]}, {"id": "C2.5.52", "lines": ["She sent her answer in that very hour:", "“What you had guessed at now is in your power."]}, {"id": "C2.5.53", "lines": ["If you come walking hither to my sight,", "You turn this darkened soul of mine to light."]}, {"id": "C2.5.54", "lines": ["With sight of you my eye is made to shine;", "This plain, this tent, a rose-garden of mine.”"]}, {"id": "C2.5.55", "lines": ["Back came the messenger, the guide, and brought", "Her words; his heart and ear on them were caught."]}, {"id": "C2.6.1", "lines": ["No time remained for further words or stay,", "From cypress shade he hurried on his way."]}, {"id": "C2.6.2", "lines": ["On foot he paced toward Manijeh’s tent,", "The free-souled girl’s, and all on longing bent."]}, {"id": "C2.6.3", "lines": ["He passed the curtain in, a cypress high,", "Gold-girdled at the waist for every eye."]}, {"id": "C2.6.4", "lines": ["Manijeh came and clasped him to her breast,", "And loosed the royal girdle from her guest."]}, {"id": "C2.6.5", "lines": ["She asked him of the road, and of his train,", "And who had shared the boar-hunt on that plain."]}, {"id": "C2.6.6", "lines": ["“Why torture such a face, such farr, such height", "With gorz, O fair of countenance and bright?”"]}, {"id": "C2.6.7", "lines": ["They bathed his feet with musk and rose perfume,", "And then made haste to eat within the room."]}, {"id": "C2.6.8", "lines": ["They set the board with dishes of each kind,", "And made a feast beyond the reach of mind."]}, {"id": "C2.6.9", "lines": ["They made a place for rud and wine and cleared", "The tent of every stranger who appeared."]}, {"id": "C2.6.10", "lines": ["The serving-women stood upon their feet,", "With barbat, chang, and songs of music sweet."]}, {"id": "C2.6.11", "lines": ["Brocade had made the ground a peacock’s hue,", "And scattered dinars, leopard-spotted through."]}, {"id": "C2.6.12", "lines": ["The tent enclosure glittered, fold on fold,", "With musk and jewels, ambergris and gold."]}, {"id": "C2.6.13", "lines": ["Old wine in crystal cups put out its power", "On Bijan, son of Giv, that pleasant hour."]}, {"id": "C2.6.14", "lines": ["Three days, three nights, in gladness they had passed;", "Then sleep and drunkenness held Bijan fast."]}, {"id": "C2.7.1", "lines": ["When time drew on for Bijan to depart,", "A longing for his face seized on her heart."]}, {"id": "C2.7.2", "lines": ["She saw his face grow dark with gloom; and then", "She called her serving-women near again."]}, {"id": "C2.7.3", "lines": ["She bade a drug that steals the senses mixed", "Into the sweetened draft, her purpose fixed."]}, {"id": "C2.7.4", "lines": ["They gave it then to Bijan, Giv’s own son,", "That good of heart, that famed and valiant one."]}, {"id": "C2.7.5", "lines": ["Manijeh, seeing Bijan’s face gone dim,", "Called her attendants once again to him."]}, {"id": "C2.7.6", "lines": ["A litter she made ready for the road,", "To bear that sleeping man from that abode."]}, {"id": "C2.7.7", "lines": ["On one side was a seat for pleasure made,", "And on the other, resting-place was laid."]}, {"id": "C2.7.8", "lines": ["She scattered camphor on the sleeper’s bed,", "And rosewater on sandalwood was spread."]}, {"id": "C2.7.9", "lines": ["When near the city, moving through the night,", "She veiled him in a woman’s robe from sight."]}, {"id": "C2.7.10", "lines": ["By night she entered through a hidden way,", "And kept her secret from the light of day."]}, {"id": "C2.7.11", "lines": ["They made a sleeping-place where he was laid,", "And to his waking then good heed she paid."]}, {"id": "C2.7.12", "lines": ["She brought an ointment, gave it him to take,", "Till his eyes opened and he came awake."]}, {"id": "C2.7.13", "lines": ["He woke, his senses gathering, and found", "That jasmine-bosomed beauty, arms around,"]}, {"id": "C2.7.14", "lines": ["Within Afrasiab’s own hall; and one", "Moon-faced beside him, and his hope undone."]}, {"id": "C2.7.15", "lines": ["Bijan writhed inwardly, and, sorely tried,", "Against Ahriman to Yazdan he cried."]}, {"id": "C2.7.16", "lines": ["He said: “O Maker, if it is decreed", "That from this place I never shall be freed,"]}, {"id": "C2.7.17", "lines": ["Then let Your vengeance fall on Gorgin’s head,", "And hear the bitter curses grief has bred."]}, {"id": "C2.7.18", "lines": ["He was my guide to this, my guide to ill,", "And wove a thousand spells to work his will.”"]}, {"id": "C2.7.19", "lines": ["Manijeh said to him: “Keep your heart glad,", "And count as wind the things you have not had."]}, {"id": "C2.7.20", "lines": ["All kinds of turns befall the lives of men;", "They feast and fight, then turn to feast again.”"]}, {"id": "C2.7.21", "lines": ["They banqueted while danger held its breath,", "With wedding here, and there the noose of death."]}, {"id": "C2.7.22", "lines": ["From every tent a rose-cheeked girl they had,", "And in Chin’s brocade every one was clad."]}, {"id": "C2.7.23", "lines": ["The fairy-faced girls took the rud in hand,", "And passed the days in gladness through that land."]}, {"id": "C2.7.24", "lines": ["Some while had passed them in this same estate;", "Then word came to the keeper of the gate."]}, {"id": "C2.7.25", "lines": ["Who speaks at random shakes, and does not know,", "The tree of ruin, that will lay him low."]}, {"id": "C2.7.26", "lines": ["He searched who this man was, from where he came,", "And why to Turan, and his city’s name."]}, {"id": "C2.7.27", "lines": ["He learned it, and his own life filled with fear,", "And to his remedy he hastened near."]}, {"id": "C2.7.28", "lines": ["No course he saw but telling what he knew,", "And from behind the curtain, running, flew."]}, {"id": "C2.7.29", "lines": ["He came before the Turkish monarch’s throne:", "“Your daughter takes a man of Iran’s own.”"]}, {"id": "C2.7.30", "lines": ["The king called on the World-Holder; and he", "Shook like a willow when the wind blows free."]}, {"id": "C2.7.31", "lines": ["From eye to cheek there ran his lashes’ blood;", "He raged, and told the tale, a burning flood:"]}, {"id": "C2.7.32", "lines": ["“Who keeps a daughter curtained in his hall,", "Though he wear crowns, an evil star will fall."]}, {"id": "C2.7.33", "lines": ["Who gets a daughter where a son should be—", "No better bridegroom than the grave has he.”"]}, {"id": "C2.7.34", "lines": ["Confounded by Manijeh’s deed and shame,", "He called the marshal Kurukhan by name."]}, {"id": "C2.7.35", "lines": ["He said: “Of this unclean woman’s affair", "Counsel with me, and counsel with due care.”"]}, {"id": "C2.7.36", "lines": ["Then Kurukhan gave answer to the King:", "“Look with a shrewder eye upon this thing."]}, {"id": "C2.7.37", "lines": ["If it is so, no speaking sets it right;", "But hearing is not equal to the sight.”"]}, {"id": "C2.7.38", "lines": ["Afrasiab, when this reply he heard,", "Was hastened onward by the marshal’s word."]}, {"id": "C2.7.39", "lines": ["He looked on Garsivaz: “What have we had", "From Iran, and what more shall make us sad?"]}, {"id": "C2.7.40", "lines": ["Who in the world has had a day like mine?", "Grief of Iran’s own city, and my line."]}, {"id": "C2.7.41", "lines": ["Go, with clear-headed horsemen at your side,", "And guard the palace roof and gate,” he cried."]}, {"id": "C2.7.42", "lines": ["“Whomever in the palace you shall see,", "Bind him, and drag him hither, back to me.”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.1", "lines": ["When Garsivaz approached the palace gate,", "He heard the revel sounding high and late."]}, {"id": "C2.8.2", "lines": ["The cry of chang, the clamor of rabab,", "Came from the palace of Afrasiab."]}, {"id": "C2.8.3", "lines": ["The Shah’s own riders seized the roof and entry,", "And every way about it had a sentry."]}, {"id": "C2.8.4", "lines": ["When Garsivaz beheld the portal barred,", "He saw the wine and heard the shouting hard."]}, {"id": "C2.8.5", "lines": ["When he drew near the barred and bolted gate,", "His riders gathered round him, close and straight."]}, {"id": "C2.8.6", "lines": ["He set his hand and tore the bolt by force,", "And sprang into the hall, and held his course."]}, {"id": "C2.8.7", "lines": ["He came in haste to where that chamber lay,", "In which a stranger sat and led the play."]}, {"id": "C2.8.8", "lines": ["When at the door he saw Bijan inside,", "His blood boiled up in wrath he could not hide."]}, {"id": "C2.8.9", "lines": ["Three hundred serving-women filled that hall,", "With rabab, wine and song among them all."]}, {"id": "C2.8.10", "lines": ["Among the women Bijan sat; the red", "Wine in his hand, and merriment he spread."]}, {"id": "C2.8.11", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz cried out to him from far:", "“You that disown your kin, base-born you are!"]}, {"id": "C2.8.12", "lines": ["You stand within the savage lion’s hold;", "What path to life remains for one so bold?”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.13", "lines": ["Bijan writhed in himself: “How make a fight,", "Naked of armor, stripped of all my might?"]}, {"id": "C2.8.14", "lines": ["Shabrang is not with me, nor the swift bay;", "The very sun has turned from me today."]}, {"id": "C2.8.15", "lines": ["Where now are Giv and Gudarz, Keshvad’s line?", "For nothing must this head be given. Mine."]}, {"id": "C2.8.16", "lines": ["No friend is left to me in this strange land;", "Izad alone can hear me where I stand.”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.17", "lines": ["He always bore a khanjar in his boot,", "A water-tempered blade from hilt to root."]}, {"id": "C2.8.18", "lines": ["He drew it from the sheath and took his place,", "And spoke his name aloud before their face:"]}, {"id": "C2.8.19", "lines": ["“Bijan am I, of Keshvad’s ancient tree,", "Head of the Pahlevans and of the free."]}, {"id": "C2.8.20", "lines": ["No man shall tear my skin, unless he bear", "A body tired of the head it must wear."]}, {"id": "C2.8.21", "lines": ["Though Judgment Day itself should fill the track,", "No man alive shall see me turn my back.”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.22", "lines": ["Then to Garsivaz he called out and said:", "“Ill fortune has contrived this on my head."]}, {"id": "C2.8.23", "lines": ["You know my forebears and my king by name;", "You know my place among the men of fame."]}, {"id": "C2.8.24", "lines": ["If you would fight, then I am ready still", "To bathe my hands in blood by strength and will."]}, {"id": "C2.8.25", "lines": ["With this same khanjar I shall take my toll", "Of Turan’s chiefs, and many a head shall roll."]}, {"id": "C2.8.26", "lines": ["But if you bring me to Turan’s own court,", "I shall lay out the tale in full report."]}, {"id": "C2.8.27", "lines": ["Then intercede with him and take my part;", "To guide toward good becomes a noble heart.”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.28", "lines": ["Garsivaz made no move to close with him,", "Seeing how sharp his claw, how fierce and grim."]}, {"id": "C2.8.29", "lines": ["He knew the man spoke truth, and that his hand", "Would wash itself in blood before that band."]}, {"id": "C2.8.30", "lines": ["He pledged him faith with oaths, and to his ear", "Gave much good counsel, warm and kind to hear."]}, {"id": "C2.8.31", "lines": ["By pact he took the khanjar; and with speech", "All oil and smoothness, bound him out of reach."]}, {"id": "C2.8.32", "lines": ["He bound him head to foot as one might bind", "A cheetah; what use prowess, fortune blind?"]}, {"id": "C2.8.33", "lines": ["Such is the crook-backed turner of the sky:", "Make it go soft, and roughness you come by."]}, {"id": "C2.8.34", "lines": ["In that state to Afrasiab they bore", "His yellow face, his eyes with weeping sore."]}, {"id": "C2.8.35", "lines": ["The hero came with arms in fetters bound,", "Bareheaded, standing on the royal ground."]}, {"id": "C2.8.36", "lines": ["The Shah said: “Reckless head. Now let me know", "Why to this land and region did you go?”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.37", "lines": ["He blessed him: “O my king, if you would seek", "The truth from me, then hear me while I speak."]}, {"id": "C2.8.38", "lines": ["Not by desire I sought this festal place;", "In all this matter no man’s guilt I trace."]}, {"id": "C2.8.39", "lines": ["From Iran came I to the fight with boars,", "And came up to this Turan feast of yours."]}, {"id": "C2.8.40", "lines": ["For one lost hawk, one bird that went astray,", "I have cast down my house and home away."]}, {"id": "C2.8.41", "lines": ["Under a cypress I lay down to sleep,", "That from the sun its shadow might me keep."]}, {"id": "C2.8.42", "lines": ["A pari came and spread her wings out wide,", "And took me sleeping up against her side."]}, {"id": "C2.8.43", "lines": ["She took me from my horse and struck the road,", "Where the king’s daughter’s escort onward strode."]}, {"id": "C2.8.44", "lines": ["Horsemen were scattered over all the plain,", "And ammaris passed by me, train on train."]}, {"id": "C2.8.45", "lines": ["An Indian parasol appeared in view,", "And Tur’s own riders ringed it through and through."]}, {"id": "C2.8.46", "lines": ["Amid them, of sweet aloeswood was made", "An ammari, in fine parniyan arrayed."]}, {"id": "C2.8.47", "lines": ["Within it slept an idol-figure bright;", "A crown was at her pillow, catching light."]}, {"id": "C2.8.48", "lines": ["The pari called on Ahriman for aid,", "Then rushed like wind among that cavalcade."]}, {"id": "C2.8.49", "lines": ["Sudden she set me in the ammari,", "And on that fair face chanted witchery."]}, {"id": "C2.8.50", "lines": ["A while within that palace-hall I slept;", "I stirred, and found my eyes had waked and wept."]}, {"id": "C2.8.51", "lines": ["No guilt in this was ever mine, not one;", "Nor is Manijeh stained in what was done."]}, {"id": "C2.8.52", "lines": ["That pari was my fortune turned to ill,", "Who tried her sorcery upon me still.”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.53", "lines": ["Afrasiab replied: “Your evil day", "Has overtaken you along this way."]}, {"id": "C2.8.54", "lines": ["You are the man who out of Iran came", "With shaft and kamand, seeking fight and fame."]}, {"id": "C2.8.55", "lines": ["Now, woman-like, your hands bound fast, you seem", "A drunkard babbling of some idle dream."]}, {"id": "C2.8.56", "lines": ["By trying lies you shall not win your head", "Away from me, nor from the doom ahead.”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.57", "lines": ["Bijan replied: “O king, attend to me;", "Hear what I say, and judge what truth may be."]}, {"id": "C2.8.58", "lines": ["Boars with their tusks and lions with their claws", "Are fit for battle under nature’s laws."]}, {"id": "C2.8.59", "lines": ["So champions with sword and shaft and bow", "Can strive against the ill-intentioned foe."]}, {"id": "C2.8.60", "lines": ["But one with body bare and bound in bands,", "The other steel-shirted, with sword in hands?"]}, {"id": "C2.8.61", "lines": ["How shall a lion rend when blunt claws fail,", "Though strife and courage in his heart prevail?"]}, {"id": "C2.8.62", "lines": ["Would the Shah see me prove my daring here,", "Before this whole assembly gathered near,"]}, {"id": "C2.8.63", "lines": ["Command a horse for me, a gorz of weight,", "And choose a thousand chiefs from Turan’s state."]}, {"id": "C2.8.64", "lines": ["If of that thousand one upon the ground", "Remain alive, no man let me be found.”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.65", "lines": ["When from Bijan he heard this speech, he threw", "His eye upon him, and his anger grew."]}, {"id": "C2.8.66", "lines": ["He turned upon Garsivaz: “Do you see", "What Iran brings us, and what yet shall be?"]}, {"id": "C2.8.67", "lines": ["See you not how this foul, ill-working man", "Contrives against me yet a further plan?"]}, {"id": "C2.8.68", "lines": ["The evil done has not contented him;", "He asks to fight, with purpose fierce and grim."]}, {"id": "C2.8.69", "lines": ["Bind him with heavy fetters, hold him fast,", "And in this very hour let him be past."]}, {"id": "C2.8.70", "lines": ["Command a gallows set before the gate,", "Where every road shall pass, and men shall wait."]}, {"id": "C2.8.71", "lines": ["Hang the ill-starred one living on that tree,", "And speak no word of him again to me."]}, {"id": "C2.8.72", "lines": ["That henceforth none of Iran’s men shall dare", "To lift his eyes toward Turan anywhere.”"]}, {"id": "C2.8.73", "lines": ["They dragged him out from Afrasiab, torn", "In heart with pain, both eyes with weeping worn."]}, {"id": "C2.8.74", "lines": ["When Bijan reached the gate, heart-wounded, slow,", "His feet sank in the mire his tears made flow."]}, {"id": "C2.8.75", "lines": ["He said: “If on my head the Maker penned", "That in ill days my life should have its end,"]}, {"id": "C2.8.76", "lines": ["Not gallows, not the killing, do I dread;", "Iran’s champions fill my heart instead."]}, {"id": "C2.8.77", "lines": ["That so my enemy may call me base,", "Hung on the tree with no wound, in disgrace."]}, {"id": "C2.8.78", "lines": ["Before my forebears of the kingly mind,", "After my death reproach on me they find."]}, {"id": "C2.8.79", "lines": ["Alas, my enemy will be made glad;", "His heart’s whole wish upon my flesh he had."]}, {"id": "C2.8.80", "lines": ["Alas, the king of kings! Alas for Giv!", "Alas that I must all my comrades leave!"]}, {"id": "C2.8.81", "lines": ["O wind, go over into Iran’s ground,", "And bear my message where the Shah is crowned."]}, {"id": "C2.8.82", "lines": ["Say Bijan lies in wounding and in pain,", "His body in the lion’s claw and chain."]}, {"id": "C2.8.83", "lines": ["Say to Gudarz of Keshvad, in my name:", "By Gorgin’s doing I have come to shame."]}, {"id": "C2.8.84", "lines": ["Tell Gorgin: O you dog of feeble thought,", "What will you say to me where souls are brought?"]}, {"id": "C2.8.85", "lines": ["You cast me into such calamity", "That not one helper anywhere I see.”"]}, {"id": "C2.9.1", "lines": ["Yazdan had mercy on Bijan’s young breath,", "And turned the king’s intent away from death."]}, {"id": "C2.9.2", "lines": ["While men prepared the gibbet by decree,", "Piran, by chance, approached the place to see."]}, {"id": "C2.9.3", "lines": ["He reached the road and saw, on every side,", "Turks with their belts girt fast in martial pride."]}, {"id": "C2.9.4", "lines": ["A lofty gibbet had been set upright,", "A kamand hanging from it, coiled and tight."]}, {"id": "C2.9.5", "lines": ["He asked the Turanians: “For whom prepared?", "Whose death has now the angry king declared?”"]}, {"id": "C2.9.6", "lines": ["Then Garsivaz replied: “It is Bijan,", "Foe of Turan and champion of Iran.”"]}, {"id": "C2.9.7", "lines": ["Piran urged on his charger, drawing near,", "And found Bijan struck deep by grief and fear."]}, {"id": "C2.9.8", "lines": ["He saw him naked, both hands bound behind,", "With parched mouth, sallow cheek, and troubled mind."]}, {"id": "C2.9.9", "lines": ["Piran asked: “By what road did you set out?", "From Iran, and for blood, beyond a doubt.”"]}, {"id": "C2.9.10", "lines": ["Bijan told all the pain he had endured,", "And how his false companion had him lured."]}, {"id": "C2.9.11", "lines": ["Piran took pity, weeping as he spoke,", "And ordered them to spare him from the stroke."]}, {"id": "C2.9.12", "lines": ["“Keep him from harm until I reach the throne;", "I go to make his desperate plight known."]}, {"id": "C2.9.13", "lines": ["That I may see the king with my own eye,", "And show to him the good star’s road on high.”"]}, {"id": "C2.9.14", "lines": ["Piran struck spur and rode, and swiftly pressed", "To Turan’s throne, and gave his heart no rest."]}, {"id": "C2.9.15", "lines": ["Into the hall he came in servant’s guise,", "Arms crossed upon his breast, with lowered eyes."]}, {"id": "C2.9.16", "lines": ["He hurried to the throne and blessings gave,", "In fervent words, respectful, loyal, grave."]}, {"id": "C2.9.17", "lines": ["Like faithful guide and minister he stood,", "To counsel what a prudent monarch should."]}, {"id": "C2.9.18", "lines": ["The World-Holder perceived the wish of his guest,", "And smiled: “Speak freely; tell me your request."]}, {"id": "C2.9.19", "lines": ["What do you wish? Speak plainly of your need;", "No man has served me better by his deed."]}, {"id": "C2.9.20", "lines": ["If you petition gold or jeweled store,", "Or realm or troops, I shall bestow still more."]}, {"id": "C2.9.21", "lines": ["My treasury lies open at your hand;", "Why take these pains? Speak now and make demand.”"]}, {"id": "C2.9.22", "lines": ["Piran, the loyal, heard and kissed the ground,", "Then rose and spoke while all stood hushed around:"]}, {"id": "C2.9.23", "lines": ["“Sit on the throne forever, fortune’s friend;", "May fortune nowhere else its grace extend."]}, {"id": "C2.9.24", "lines": ["The monarchs of the earth proclaim your praise;", "Your splendor passes the bright sun’s own blaze."]}, {"id": "C2.9.25", "lines": ["Through your good fortune, I have no request", "For horse or troops, dominion, or conquest."]}, {"id": "C2.9.26", "lines": ["I ask not for myself; beneath your hand,", "Your servants prosper throughout every land."]}, {"id": "C2.9.27", "lines": ["Your rule itself is fortune, stay, and guide;", "Your glorious chiefs stand gathered at your side."]}, {"id": "C2.9.28", "lines": ["I fear that silence may let others grieve,", "And stain the honored name I hope to leave."]}, {"id": "C2.9.29", "lines": ["And now, O lion-taking king, allow", "One counsel from my lips: receive it now."]}, {"id": "C2.9.30", "lines": ["Slay not this famed Bijan; behind him sits", "A king of judgment and of ready wits."]}, {"id": "C2.9.31", "lines": ["The feud for Siavash you would sow as seed,", "And on Turan make war and vengeance breed."]}, {"id": "C2.9.32", "lines": ["Have I not counseled you in seasons past,", "On this and that affair, from first to last?"]}, {"id": "C2.9.33", "lines": ["But not one word of mine was ever weighed;", "I drew my hand back from the plans you made."]}, {"id": "C2.9.34", "lines": ["I said, ‘Do not slay Kay Kavus’s son,", "Or Tus and Rostam rise for what is done."]}, {"id": "C2.9.35", "lines": ["For Siavash, born of Kayanian race,", "Had bound himself to serve you in this place."]}, {"id": "C2.9.36", "lines": ["Peace will be broken; Iran’s men of war", "Will bring their trampling elephants to our door.’"]}, {"id": "C2.9.37", "lines": ["How many men the feud has robbed of life,", "How many earth has hidden from the strife."]}, {"id": "C2.9.38", "lines": ["How many wives are left forlorn and gray,", "How many lion-men are thinned away."]}, {"id": "C2.9.39", "lines": ["Yet heedless of my counsel, you struck him dead,", "And mixed the poison where the sweet was spread."]}, {"id": "C2.9.40", "lines": ["Have you not seen the ruin Iran wrought,", "And how its elephants through Turan fought?"]}, {"id": "C2.9.41", "lines": ["Their hooves trod down two-thirds of us to dust,", "And fortune’s water turned to brine and rust."]}, {"id": "C2.9.42", "lines": ["Zal’s sword-point is not blunted in its sheath;", "By Rostam, heads have rolled in dust beneath."]}, {"id": "C2.9.43", "lines": ["With that same blade he scattered heads like grain,", "And cast their streaming blood across the plain."]}, {"id": "C2.9.44", "lines": ["Will you seek war while peace remains our state,", "And pluck a flower whose fruit is death and hate?"]}, {"id": "C2.9.45", "lines": ["If Bijan’s blood is spilled upon this soil,", "From Turan’s earth the dust of war will boil."]}, {"id": "C2.9.46", "lines": ["You are a wise king; we are only men;", "Open your heart’s eye, weigh this once again."]}, {"id": "C2.9.47", "lines": ["Consider how the Shah repaid before", "Each injury that he had borne in war."]}, {"id": "C2.9.48", "lines": ["In truth, you call for vengeance, and renew", "The feud, and make grief’s tree bear fruit for you."]}, {"id": "C2.9.49", "lines": ["When feud is doubled we shall have no ground,", "O Pahlevan, in whom the world is bound."]}, {"id": "C2.9.50", "lines": ["You know brave Giv, and Rostam’s savage name,", "That grim nahang whom none has power to tame."]}, {"id": "C2.9.51", "lines": ["And Gudarz, Keshvad’s steel-clawed, mighty son,", "Will come to war till his grandson is won.”"]}, {"id": "C2.9.52", "lines": ["As water cools a raging fire’s glow,", "Afrasiab answered Piran, stern and slow:"]}, {"id": "C2.9.53", "lines": ["“Do you not know what shame this man has brought,", "And what disgrace his hidden acts have wrought?"]}, {"id": "C2.9.54", "lines": ["My shameless daughter heaps upon my head", "A shame through every house and household spread."]}, {"id": "C2.9.55", "lines": ["My veiled ones’ names she carried from the screen,", "And spread them where the gathered lords convene."]}, {"id": "C2.9.56", "lines": ["For this disgrace, my troops throughout the land", "Will mock the crown and scorn where I now stand."]}, {"id": "C2.9.57", "lines": ["If he shall live, in every mouth my shame", "Will be a jest, and all despise my name."]}, {"id": "C2.9.58", "lines": ["Forever bitter tears from me will fall,", "And I in shame and pain must bear it all.”"]}, {"id": "C2.9.59", "lines": ["Piran gave many blessings, and he said:", "“O king of the good star, by truth still led,"]}, {"id": "C2.9.60", "lines": ["It is as the king says; and all his days", "He seeks for nothing but an honored praise."]}, {"id": "C2.9.61", "lines": ["Yet let my sovereign look, and, looking, weigh", "The sober counsel that I now convey."]}, {"id": "C2.9.62", "lines": ["Bind him in heavy chains and let him lie,", "Rather than choose the gallows, and to die."]}, {"id": "C2.9.63", "lines": ["Let Iran take its warning from his fate,", "And gird no more for evil, soon or late."]}, {"id": "C2.9.64", "lines": ["For whoever lies in your dark prison-hold,", "His name in no man’s register is told."]}, {"id": "C2.9.65", "lines": ["Again I say: from him Iran takes heed,", "And binds no more the belt of evil deed.”"]}, {"id": "C2.9.66", "lines": ["The king did as the counsel showed him best,", "His heart and tongue at one, his doubt at rest."]}, {"id": "C2.9.67", "lines": ["A pure and guiding minister can make", "The throne shine bright, and all its farr awake."]}, {"id": "C2.10.1", "lines": ["Afrasiab commanded: “Garsivaz, obey;", "Prepare a pit where light shall lose its way."]}, {"id": "C2.10.2", "lines": ["Draw both his hands in chains, his throat in hold,", "And clamp a Rumi bond, bridge-arched and cold."]}, {"id": "C2.10.3", "lines": ["Make all secure with heavy rivets fast,", "Then headfirst down to black despair be cast."]}, {"id": "C2.10.4", "lines": ["Shut sun and moon forever from his eyes;", "Take elephants where Akvan’s great stone lies."]}, {"id": "C2.10.5", "lines": ["That stone the Piltan raised from ocean deep,", "And cast in Chin’s far wilds for fate to keep,"]}, {"id": "C2.10.6", "lines": ["That stone shall now avenge me on this man;", "Bring elephants and all the force you can."]}, {"id": "C2.10.7", "lines": ["The stone above Arzhang’s dark dungeon-door", "Shall seal him in and hide him evermore."]}, {"id": "C2.10.8", "lines": ["Then leave him there to madness, grief, and night,", "And ride to Manijeh’s palace in your might."]}, {"id": "C2.10.9", "lines": ["Go sack the palace of that wanton maid,", "Whose shameless choice has made her honor fade."]}, {"id": "C2.10.10", "lines": ["Strip her of crown and fortune, head and all,", "And speak these words, and let my anger fall:"]}, {"id": "C2.10.11", "lines": ["‘Accursed, wretched girl, unfit to wear", "The royal crown or breathe the royal air,"]}, {"id": "C2.10.12", "lines": ["You have abased my head among the great,", "And dragged my royal crown through scorn and hate.’"]}, {"id": "C2.10.13", "lines": ["Then drag her naked to the pit and say:", "‘Behold your royal lover here today."]}, {"id": "C2.10.14", "lines": ["You are his springtime now, his joy, his guide;", "Go serve and comfort him there at his side."]}, {"id": "C2.10.15", "lines": ["Remain with him inside that sunken cell,", "And leave them both within that living hell.’”"]}, {"id": "C2.10.16", "lines": ["They carried out the monarch’s harsh command,", "And seized Giv’s son, still fettered foot and hand."]}, {"id": "C2.10.17", "lines": ["Before the pit’s black mouth they set him down,", "And ironed him from heel to very crown."]}, {"id": "C2.10.18", "lines": ["His waist and hands with heavy chains were wound,", "While smiths drove iron rivets, hard and sound."]}, {"id": "C2.10.19", "lines": ["With steel and hammers every bond was fast;", "Then headfirst in the pit Bijan was cast."]}, {"id": "C2.10.20", "lines": ["They sealed him under stone; then from that place", "The troops withdrew, grim anger on each face."]}, {"id": "C2.10.21", "lines": ["They reached the princess’ palace, seized her store,", "And cast her wealth in heaps across the floor."]}, {"id": "C2.10.22", "lines": ["Manijeh was left bare, without a veil,", "Barefoot, bareheaded, and her face grown pale."]}, {"id": "C2.10.23", "lines": ["They dragged her to the pit; her heart was blood,", "Her face a channel running like a flood."]}, {"id": "C2.10.24", "lines": ["Garsivaz said, “Look here, and you shall see", "Your home; the prisoner’s servant you shall be.”"]}, {"id": "C2.10.25", "lines": ["Manijeh stayed, with anguish in her breast,", "And blood-drops on her cheeks, and found no rest."]}, {"id": "C2.10.26", "lines": ["He turned away; Manijeh, bride of woe,", "Roamed through the plain with nowhere else to go."]}, {"id": "C2.10.27", "lines": ["When one full day and night had passed in grief,", "She scraped a handbreadth opening for relief."]}, {"id": "C2.10.28", "lines": ["When from the mountain’s crest the sun raised head,", "Manijeh went from door to door for bread."]}, {"id": "C2.10.29", "lines": ["Through the long day she gathered, crust by crust,", "And brought it to the pit-hole through the dust."]}, {"id": "C2.10.30", "lines": ["She gave it to Bijan, and wept her fill,", "And in that ill-starred living lingered still."]}, {"id": "C2.10.31", "lines": ["With sigh and cry, through every hour she kept", "That pit’s own watch, and never left, but wept."]}, {"id": "C2.11.1", "lines": ["When one full week had passed and none returned,", "Gorgin searched on, while fear within him burned."]}, {"id": "C2.11.2", "lines": ["He hurried all over, and searched, and wept", "Hot tears of blood; no hour of rest he kept."]}, {"id": "C2.11.3", "lines": ["Repentance took him now for what he did,", "The evil he against his comrade hid."]}, {"id": "C2.11.4", "lines": ["He sought the place where Bijan went astray,", "And searched the forest through the fading day."]}, {"id": "C2.11.5", "lines": ["He circled all the wood, yet saw no one,", "Nor heard a bird-call underneath the sun."]}, {"id": "C2.11.6", "lines": ["He searched the meadow by the river wide,", "And saw the charger standing at its side."]}, {"id": "C2.11.7", "lines": ["There stood the steed, its broken bridle low,", "Its saddle dragged; its foaming mouth showed woe."]}, {"id": "C2.11.8", "lines": ["He knew the horse was his companion’s own,", "And cried: “Bijan is lost, not well, alone."]}, {"id": "C2.11.9", "lines": ["He will not see Iran; some hostile hand", "Has laid him down upon death’s farther strand."]}, {"id": "C2.11.10", "lines": ["By gallows, prison, chains, or deadly blow,", "Afrasiab has struck him, that I know.”"]}, {"id": "C2.11.11", "lines": ["Repentant, Gorgin cast the kamand out,", "And caught the horse, and turned his face about."]}, {"id": "C2.11.12", "lines": ["He turned and led the steed back from the plain,", "And stayed one day inside his tent in pain."]}, {"id": "C2.11.13", "lines": ["Then sleepless, restless, sick with fear and shame,", "He turned toward Iran, dreading Giv’s blame."]}, {"id": "C2.11.14", "lines": ["The Shah soon heard that Gorgin had returned,", "Without Bijan, while royal anger burned."]}, {"id": "C2.11.15", "lines": ["The Shah desired to question him alone,", "And kept the bitter news as yet unknown."]}, {"id": "C2.11.16", "lines": ["Yet Giv soon heard his brave son had been lost,", "And rushed into the street, by anguish crossed."]}, {"id": "C2.11.17", "lines": ["His heart was pierced, his cheeks with weeping wet;", "He cried: “Bijan has not returned here yet."]}, {"id": "C2.11.18", "lines": ["I do not know why he remains in Irman,", "What fate has held him far from home and Iran.”"]}, {"id": "C2.11.19", "lines": ["Then vengeful as a leopard in his heart,", "He called for Keshvad’s bay, prepared to start."]}, {"id": "C2.11.20", "lines": ["That bay was kept against the day of need;", "They laid the khadang saddle on the steed."]}, {"id": "C2.11.21", "lines": ["He mounted like the wind and spurred away,", "And left his place that hour without delay."]}, {"id": "C2.11.22", "lines": ["He rode to Gorgin, so he might ask straight", "Where Bijan stayed, and what had been his fate."]}, {"id": "C2.11.23", "lines": ["He thought: “By truth itself, one thing is plain:", "Gorgin has brought my son to grief and pain."]}, {"id": "C2.11.24", "lines": ["I shall behead Gorgin or see my son;", "One deed or else the other shall be done.”"]}, {"id": "C2.11.25", "lines": ["When Gorgin saw that Giv was drawing near,", "He left his horse and ran to him in fear."]}, {"id": "C2.11.26", "lines": ["He wallowed in the dust, bareheaded, pale,", "His cheeks torn open as he voiced his tale:"]}, {"id": "C2.11.27", "lines": ["“O chosen warrior of the Iranian line,", "The Shah’s great chief, in whom all honors shine,"]}, {"id": "C2.11.28", "lines": ["Why have you come to meet me on my way?", "Why do your blood-red tears fall down today?"]}, {"id": "C2.11.29", "lines": ["I do not wish to live if further woe", "Should now befall me, blow succeeding blow."]}, {"id": "C2.11.30", "lines": ["Ashamed am I to look upon your face;", "My eyes pour blood in sorrow and disgrace."]}, {"id": "C2.11.31", "lines": ["Yet do not fear for Bijan’s life,” he cried;", "“No harm has touched him; truth shall be my guide.”"]}, {"id": "C2.11.32", "lines": ["Giv saw his son’s horse standing at his side,", "And Gorgin, dust-covered and wild-eyed."]}, {"id": "C2.11.33", "lines": ["He heard those words and tumbled to the ground,", "Then lay beneath his grief without a sound."]}, {"id": "C2.11.34", "lines": ["His head lay hidden in the road’s dry sand;", "He rent his Pahlavi robe with either hand."]}, {"id": "C2.11.35", "lines": ["He plucked his hair and from his wounded head", "Poured dust, and cried aloud in grief and dread:"]}, {"id": "C2.11.36", "lines": ["“O Maker of the heavens, wise and high,", "Who filled my heart with love beneath the sky,"]}, {"id": "C2.11.37", "lines": ["Now that my son is lost, I beg of You", "To cut my life-cord and my spirit too."]}, {"id": "C2.11.38", "lines": ["Bear both away to blessed halls above;", "You know my anguish and a father’s love."]}, {"id": "C2.11.39", "lines": ["One son alone I had in all the earth.", "My son, and my pure counselor from birth."]}, {"id": "C2.11.40", "lines": ["Now evil fortune tears my life apart,", "And leaves the Dragon gnawing at my heart.”"]}, {"id": "C2.11.41", "lines": ["He turned to Gorgin: “Tell me all the tale.", "Did fate destroy him? Did his purpose fail?"]}, {"id": "C2.11.42", "lines": ["Did he depart from sight by his own choice?", "What evil came upon him? Raise your voice."]}, {"id": "C2.11.43", "lines": ["Who flung the meshes of the sky around?", "What Div rose up against him from the ground?"]}, {"id": "C2.11.44", "lines": ["Who murdered him and ruined all my joy?", "How did you find the charger, not the boy?"]}, {"id": "C2.11.45", "lines": ["Where did you leave Bijan?” Then Gorgin replied:", "“Compose yourself; let grief and fear subside."]}, {"id": "C2.11.46", "lines": ["Recover now your senses; hear me out,", "And open wide your ears, and cast off doubt."]}, {"id": "C2.11.47", "lines": ["About the fight with boars within the wood,", "Hear this, great chief, and mark it as you should."]}, {"id": "C2.11.48", "lines": ["Know this, O Pahlevan, and hold it fast:", "Be still the throne’s bright luster to the last."]}, {"id": "C2.11.49", "lines": ["We rode from here to fight the boar, and pressed", "Up close to Irman on that wooded crest."]}, {"id": "C2.11.50", "lines": ["We saw a wood that ruin turned to waste,", "With trampled pasture and with trees defaced."]}, {"id": "C2.11.51", "lines": ["The boars had made this ruined wood their lair;", "All Irman withered under grief and care."]}, {"id": "C2.11.52", "lines": ["We raised our spears and shouted through the wood;", "Before us, mountain-like, the wild boars stood."]}, {"id": "C2.11.53", "lines": ["Not one by one they charged, but herd by herd;", "The forest shook beneath the din we stirred."]}, {"id": "C2.11.54", "lines": ["We fought like lions till the day was won,", "And did not rest until the work was done."]}, {"id": "C2.11.55", "lines": ["We piled their elephantine bodies high,", "And tore their tusks out underneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C2.11.56", "lines": ["Then toward Iran we turned in merry mood,", "And, past that blood-stained forest, game pursued."]}, {"id": "C2.11.57", "lines": ["A Gur-e-Khar sprang up before our sight;", "No eye had seen a fairer shape in flight."]}, {"id": "C2.11.58", "lines": ["Its coat was Gudarz’s Golgun, hair for hair,", "Its face, Farhad’s white Shabahang’s, as fair."]}, {"id": "C2.11.59", "lines": ["Its wing was Simorgh’s, and its hoof was steel,", "Its head and tail made Bijan’s Shabrang real."]}, {"id": "C2.11.60", "lines": ["Its neck was lion-like, its speed was fire;", "It seemed that Rakhsh himself had been its sire."]}, {"id": "C2.11.61", "lines": ["It charged like some tall elephant in fight;", "Bijan cast out the twisting kamand tight."]}, {"id": "C2.11.62", "lines": ["The cast, the break-away, were one same deed;", "The Gur-e-Khar ran on, Bijan at speed."]}, {"id": "C2.11.63", "lines": ["Bijan sped after it through dust and roar,", "While earth rose like a sea from shore to shore."]}, {"id": "C2.11.64", "lines": ["The rider and the Gur-e-Khar were gone;", "Their dust-cloud swallowed both and traveled on."]}, {"id": "C2.11.65", "lines": ["My horse was weary, yet I searched the plain,", "Through hill and valley, seeking signs in vain."]}, {"id": "C2.11.66", "lines": ["I found no trace of Bijan, not a track,", "Except his steed, its saddle trailing slack."]}, {"id": "C2.11.67", "lines": ["My heart burned for his fate in grief and woe:", "How could he stand against that wild beast’s blow?"]}, {"id": "C2.11.68", "lines": ["I lingered long upon the pasture wide,", "And searched all ways, but hope at last had died."]}, {"id": "C2.11.69", "lines": ["I came back hopeless, for before my eyes", "That beast had worn the White Div’s foul disguise.”"]}, {"id": "C2.11.70", "lines": ["Shrewd Giv heard this and thought: “My son is lost.”", "He weighed the tale and saw what falsehood cost."]}, {"id": "C2.11.71", "lines": ["He marked confused words, eyes that would not meet", "His own, and saw the darkened glance retreat."]}, {"id": "C2.11.72", "lines": ["His face grown yellow, and his words half-spilt", "In trembling, and his heart brimful of guilt."]}, {"id": "C2.11.73", "lines": ["Giv saw his son was lost beyond recall,", "And saw the tale was tainted, part and all."]}, {"id": "C2.11.74", "lines": ["Ahriman drove him toward a bloody feud,", "To strike at Gorgin while his anger brewed."]}, {"id": "C2.11.75", "lines": ["To claim from him the blood of his own son,", "Whatever good might yet from him be won."]}, {"id": "C2.11.76", "lines": ["But then he thought, and searched the matter round;", "No light came of it, and no gleam he found."]}, {"id": "C2.11.77", "lines": ["“What comes to me,” he said, “from this man’s death,", "But Ahriman’s foul purpose, breath for breath?"]}, {"id": "C2.11.78", "lines": ["What good to Bijan comes of this man’s life?", "Let us seek out another cure than strife."]}, {"id": "C2.11.79", "lines": ["To wring my vengeance from him were but small;", "My spearpoint is not set against a wall."]}, {"id": "C2.11.80", "lines": ["We shall abide until the Shah shall hear,", "And Gorgin’s guilt in this stand plain and clear.”"]}, {"id": "C2.11.81", "lines": ["He raised a shout at Gorgin, loud and long:", "“Foul-dealing wretch, harm-laden, born to wrong."]}, {"id": "C2.11.82", "lines": ["You took my sun and moon, my hope, my spring,", "My chosen of all riders, and my king."]}, {"id": "C2.11.83", "lines": ["You flung me into running, chase on chase,", "Round the whole world, to seek a healing place."]}, {"id": "C2.11.84", "lines": ["And now, with all your wiles and cheats and art,", "Where shall I find rest, sleep, or quiet heart?"]}, {"id": "C2.11.85", "lines": ["No power beyond this hour remains to you,", "Till I have seen the Shah, and told him true."]}, {"id": "C2.11.86", "lines": ["And then from you I claim my vengeance whole,", "For my dear one, the world-beholding soul.”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.1", "lines": ["With bloodshot eyes and vengeance in his breast,", "Giv came before the Shah by grief oppressed."]}, {"id": "C2.12.2", "lines": ["He blessed the king: “May joy forever flow", "Across the world beneath your royal glow."]}, {"id": "C2.12.3", "lines": ["Blessed and well-starred king, can you not see", "What ruin and what grief have fallen on me?"]}, {"id": "C2.12.4", "lines": ["I had one son, my constant care; each day", "I feared for him when danger crossed his way."]}, {"id": "C2.12.5", "lines": ["I wept to think some harm might strike his head,", "And burned with fear that I would find him dead."]}, {"id": "C2.12.6", "lines": ["Now Gorgin has returned with lying tongue,", "A guilty soul, and news from evil sprung."]}, {"id": "C2.12.7", "lines": ["He speaks of my pure son, my stainless pride,", "My famed and spotless counselor and guide."]}, {"id": "C2.12.8", "lines": ["He brought his charger, riderless, alone,", "But of Bijan no sign or trace was shown."]}, {"id": "C2.12.9", "lines": ["If now my lord will look upon my case,", "And grant me justice in this bitter place,"]}, {"id": "C2.12.10", "lines": ["Let justice fall upon that man of sin,", "Who cast me into grief for my own kin.”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.11", "lines": ["The Shah was troubled by brave Giv’s despair,", "And mourned the son whose fate hung in the air."]}, {"id": "C2.12.12", "lines": ["In anger then he set the crown in place,", "And took the throne with pallor on his face."]}, {"id": "C2.12.13", "lines": ["He said to Giv: “What tale has Gorgin told?", "Where did he leave that comrade, true and bold?”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.14", "lines": ["Giv told the tale about his gallant son,", "As Gorgin had recounted, one by one."]}, {"id": "C2.12.15", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said: “Do not give way to grief;", "Bijan is safe; let hope now bring relief."]}, {"id": "C2.12.16", "lines": ["Be calm about the son you fear is lost;", "Do not let sorrow claim so great a cost."]}, {"id": "C2.12.17", "lines": ["Wise Mobadan, well versed in hidden things,", "Have told me truly what the future brings:"]}, {"id": "C2.12.18", "lines": ["That I shall ride with Iran’s mounted spears", "To war on Turan in the coming years."]}, {"id": "C2.12.19", "lines": ["For Siavash I shall make vengeance plain,", "And end that land with elephants in train."]}, {"id": "C2.12.20", "lines": ["Bijan will take the field at war’s alarm,", "And fight like Ahriman with mighty arm.”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.21", "lines": ["The Shah continued, “Set your grief aside;", "I seek him too, and will not be denied.”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.22", "lines": ["So Giv withdrew, with grief and anguish torn,", "Blood in both eyes, his cheek gone pale and worn."]}, {"id": "C2.12.23", "lines": ["When Gorgin reached the palace gate alone,", "He found the court as silent as a stone."]}, {"id": "C2.12.24", "lines": ["The Pahlevans had gone with Giv in grief,", "All mourning Bijan, hoping for relief."]}, {"id": "C2.12.25", "lines": ["Gorgin, his guilty soul consumed by shame,", "Went in for audience, inwardly aflame."]}, {"id": "C2.12.26", "lines": ["He reached Khosrow and kissed the ground below,", "And offered reverence, bent with secret woe."]}, {"id": "C2.12.27", "lines": ["He laid the diamond-hard tusks, one by one,", "Before the throne when formal rites were done."]}, {"id": "C2.12.28", "lines": ["He said: “May Kay Khosrow victorious reign,", "His life like New Year brighten hill and plain."]}, {"id": "C2.12.29", "lines": ["And you, O King, be glad while time shall last,", "From care and sorrow free, from grieving past."]}, {"id": "C2.12.30", "lines": ["May all your foes’ proud heads be cut away,", "As these wild boars were severed in the fray.”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.31", "lines": ["The Shah beheld the tusks and asked him then:", "“How went the journey? Speak before my men."]}, {"id": "C2.12.32", "lines": ["Where did Bijan part company with you?", "What evil did Ahriman put him through?”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.33", "lines": ["When Khosrow spoke, Gorgin stood ill at ease,", "And stammered out the words he thought would please."]}, {"id": "C2.12.34", "lines": ["His guilty soul was dark; his cheeks were pale,", "He shook in terror as he shaped his tale."]}, {"id": "C2.12.35", "lines": ["He babbled, and his words ran wild and far,", "Of forest, pasture, boar, and Gur-e-Khar."]}, {"id": "C2.12.36", "lines": ["When words no longer matched the words before,", "Khosrow perceived the malice at his core."]}, {"id": "C2.12.37", "lines": ["The Shah grew angry, drove him out in shame,", "And heaped fierce curses on his guilty name."]}, {"id": "C2.12.38", "lines": ["He said: “Have you not heard what Zal decreed?", "Gudarz’s offspring make the lions bleed."]}, {"id": "C2.12.39", "lines": ["Whoever meets his children hand to hand", "Will spill a lion’s blood upon the sand."]}, {"id": "C2.12.40", "lines": ["But for the evil name that it would buy,", "And the ill end before Yazdan on high,"]}, {"id": "C2.12.41", "lines": ["I would command your head be plucked away", "Like Ahriman’s foul bird, this very day.”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.42", "lines": ["Then to a smith he said: “Forge shackles strong,", "With heavy rivets, weighty, hard, and long.”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.43", "lines": ["He had Gorgin’s feet fettered there in chains,", "To teach what punishment deceit sustains."]}, {"id": "C2.12.44", "lines": ["He said to Giv: “Be calm, but swift proceed", "To search each quarter for your son in need."]}, {"id": "C2.12.45", "lines": ["And I will send armed men to each frontier,", "To gather any trace that may appear."]}, {"id": "C2.12.46", "lines": ["That we get word of Bijan, soon or late;", "In this be swift and wakeful. Do not wait."]}, {"id": "C2.12.47", "lines": ["But should that word be slow in coming, keep", "The seat of wisdom in you; do not weep."]}, {"id": "C2.12.48", "lines": ["Stay till the month of Farvardin arrive,", "When faith’s own sun makes all the world alive."]}, {"id": "C2.12.49", "lines": ["When the glad garden fills with roses red,", "And the wind scatters blossom on your head,"]}, {"id": "C2.12.50", "lines": ["When earth puts on its robe of living green,", "And winds move softly through the rose-bright scene,"]}, {"id": "C2.12.51", "lines": ["Then to Ormozd our pure devotion goes,", "And prayer shall kindle this our soul that glows."]}, {"id": "C2.12.52", "lines": ["Before Yazdan I shall arise and stand,", "And bring the world-revealing cup to hand."]}, {"id": "C2.12.53", "lines": ["The seven climes lie all within its round;", "Their soil and border in it shall be found."]}, {"id": "C2.12.54", "lines": ["And I shall bless my forebears from of old,", "My chosen great ones, and my pure, all told."]}, {"id": "C2.12.55", "lines": ["And I shall tell you where your Bijan lies;", "Within that cup it stands clear to my eyes.”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.56", "lines": ["Giv heard the words and gladness filled his breast;", "His son’s long grief released him into rest."]}, {"id": "C2.12.57", "lines": ["He smiled, and blessed the Shah: “On you descend", "The Soul-Creator’s blessing without end."]}, {"id": "C2.12.58", "lines": ["May the high sphere revolve to your desire;", "May no ill eye touch you, nor harm conspire.”"]}, {"id": "C2.12.59", "lines": ["When Giv had left the throne of Khosrow’s hall,", "He sent out riders swiftly, one and all."]}, {"id": "C2.12.60", "lines": ["They searched the whole world over, high and low,", "That some least sign of Bijan yet might show."]}, {"id": "C2.12.61", "lines": ["They trod the soil of Iran far and wide,", "And found no trace on Turan’s farther side."]}, {"id": "C2.13.1", "lines": ["When joyful New Year’s Day at last returned,", "For Khosrow’s world-revealing cup Giv yearned."]}, {"id": "C2.13.2", "lines": ["Bent double, bearing grief that was his own,", "The Pahlevan came hoping to the throne."]}, {"id": "C2.13.3", "lines": ["Khosrow beheld his cheeks, sunken and spare,", "And felt the grief that Giv had come to bear."]}, {"id": "C2.13.4", "lines": ["The Shah then clothed himself in Roman dress,", "And stood before Yazdan, in humbleness."]}, {"id": "C2.13.5", "lines": ["Before the World-Creator he cried loud,", "And on the sun laid praise, and praise, and bowed."]}, {"id": "C2.13.6", "lines": ["He prayed for strength, for judgment’s cleansing flame,", "To break dark Ahriman’s malignant aim."]}, {"id": "C2.13.7", "lines": ["Then to his throne he came in royal state,", "Put on Kayanian crown, and read his fate."]}, {"id": "C2.13.8", "lines": ["He took the cup and gazed, and in its round", "The seven climes and heaven’s signs were found."]}, {"id": "C2.13.9", "lines": ["Within its depths, in order, form, and scope,", "Appeared each act, decree, and mortal hope."]}, {"id": "C2.13.10", "lines": ["From Pisces round to Aries, sign by sign,", "The zodiac appeared in one design."]}, {"id": "C2.13.11", "lines": ["Saturn, Mars, Jupiter, the Lion’s glow;", "Venus and Mercury up, the Moon below."]}, {"id": "C2.13.12", "lines": ["All that would come to pass lay there displayed;", "The World-Holder, enchanter, read and weighed."]}, {"id": "C2.13.13", "lines": ["He scanned the seven climes for Bijan’s trace,", "But found no sign of him in any place."]}, {"id": "C2.13.14", "lines": ["He came to Gorgasaran’s land at last,", "And by Yazdan’s command beheld him fast."]}, {"id": "C2.13.15", "lines": ["Bound in a pit with heavy chains he lay,", "And, in his anguish, prayed to pass away."]}, {"id": "C2.13.16", "lines": ["A daughter of Kayanian race was near,", "Who tended him through misery and fear."]}, {"id": "C2.13.17", "lines": ["The Shah smiled gently from the royal seat,", "Then turned to Giv; his words were calm and sweet:"]}, {"id": "C2.13.18", "lines": ["“Bijan still lives; take heart and grieve no more;", "Keep your great body free of every sore."]}, {"id": "C2.13.19", "lines": ["And grieve not for his prison or his cell;", "No hurt has touched his life, and all is well."]}, {"id": "C2.13.20", "lines": ["He lies in dark Turan, beyond our sight,", "A noble maid attends him day and night."]}, {"id": "C2.13.21", "lines": ["Yet sorrow fills me deeply for his chains,", "His hunger, hardship, and his endless pains."]}, {"id": "C2.13.22", "lines": ["So pass his days; and at each hour that flies", "She weeps above him with her bitter cries."]}, {"id": "C2.13.23", "lines": ["He has no hope to see his kin appear,", "But shakes like willow-boughs in rain and fear."]}, {"id": "C2.13.24", "lines": ["Blood fills his eyes and anguish fills his heart;", "My name is on his tongue and will not part."]}, {"id": "C2.13.25", "lines": ["Both weep like springtime clouds that overflow;", "He seeks his death in such a life of woe."]}, {"id": "C2.13.26", "lines": ["Who now will stir himself, and take the road?", "Who rise up girded for so hard a load?"]}, {"id": "C2.13.27", "lines": ["Who keeps his faith with us in this our need,", "And brings him free of hardship by his deed?"]}, {"id": "C2.13.28", "lines": ["None but the sharp-clawed Rostam, whose strong hand", "Draws up the nahang from the deep sea’s sand."]}, {"id": "C2.13.29", "lines": ["Gird up your belt; to Nimruz haste away,", "And rest not on that road by night or day."]}, {"id": "C2.13.30", "lines": ["Bear him my letter; give it him alone,", "And on the road let nothing more be known."]}, {"id": "C2.13.31", "lines": ["I shall send for him, and lay all this bare,", "And make an end, O Giv, of your despair.”"]}, {"id": "C2.14.1", "lines": ["A scribe was summoned to the Shah’s own side,", "And something of the story he supplied."]}, {"id": "C2.14.2", "lines": ["The Shah commanded: “Write to Rostam then,", "From chief to well-wisher, the best of men:"]}, {"id": "C2.14.3", "lines": ["‘O Pahlevan by birth, in art the best,", "Whose head is raised above the champions’ crest."]}, {"id": "C2.14.4", "lines": ["In you your noble ancestors unite,", "And you stand ever girded for the fight."]}, {"id": "C2.14.5", "lines": ["Heart of the monarchs, prop of royal kings,", "Your strength brings aid wherever sorrow clings."]}, {"id": "C2.14.6", "lines": ["The sphere endowed you with a leopard’s frame;", "At sea the nahang roars to hear your name."]}, {"id": "C2.14.7", "lines": ["You washed the Divs of Mazandaran away,", "And tore the heads from wicked men that day."]}, {"id": "C2.14.8", "lines": ["How many crowned heads have you overthrown,", "And severed from the splendor of the throne?"]}, {"id": "C2.14.9", "lines": ["Unnumbered foes have fallen by your hand;", "Through you, defeat has swept each hostile land."]}, {"id": "C2.14.10", "lines": ["Chief Pahlevan, defense of Iran’s lines,", "Your power with royal majesty combines."]}, {"id": "C2.14.11", "lines": ["Your gorz bound all the sorcerers complete,", "And raised the crown of kings by their defeat."]}, {"id": "C2.14.12", "lines": ["Afrasiab and Chin’s Khaqan, both kings,", "Have cut your name upon their signet rings."]}, {"id": "C2.14.13", "lines": ["Whatever knot your hand has bound holds fast;", "Who seeks to loose it is himself downcast."]}, {"id": "C2.14.14", "lines": ["You are the loosener of every chain,", "The Kayanian’s own blessed sphere and reign."]}, {"id": "C2.14.15", "lines": ["Izad has given you an elephant’s might,", "A lion’s heart, and lore, and lineage bright."]}, {"id": "C2.14.16", "lines": ["He gave it so your hand might reach and save", "Him who cries out, from the dark pit’s own grave."]}, {"id": "C2.14.17", "lines": ["Now such a call for aid has come to pass:", "A noble youth lies captive and, alas,"]}, {"id": "C2.14.18", "lines": ["No son of Gudarz ever suffered more", "From those wolf-faced Turanians on that shore."]}, {"id": "C2.14.19", "lines": ["Gudarz and Giv both place their trust in you,", "A hero known in every land as true."]}, {"id": "C2.14.20", "lines": ["You know the honor they possess at court,", "Their courage, wisdom, and their firm support."]}, {"id": "C2.14.21", "lines": ["Do not regard this burden as too great;", "Ask men and means; I shall not make you wait."]}, {"id": "C2.14.22", "lines": ["This court has never known such grief till now;", "Few houses match their fame beneath heaven’s brow."]}, {"id": "C2.14.23", "lines": ["Giv had no son except this single one,", "At once his child, his aid, his living sun."]}, {"id": "C2.14.24", "lines": ["Great is the honor Giv has earned at court;", "My grandfather received his firm support."]}, {"id": "C2.14.25", "lines": ["He served that king and now has served me well,", "And stood beside me when misfortunes fell."]}, {"id": "C2.14.26", "lines": ["You know the Gudarzians’ whole way and worth", "In ease and hardship, gain and loss on earth."]}, {"id": "C2.14.27", "lines": ["When you have read this letter, do not stay;", "Rise, come with Giv to me without delay."]}, {"id": "C2.14.28", "lines": ["Together we shall choose the wisest course,", "And bring him home through sound tactic and force."]}, {"id": "C2.14.29", "lines": ["Of men and treasure and of goods, my store", "I bring before you, arrayed, and yet more."]}, {"id": "C2.14.30", "lines": ["Your step is blessed, your name is lifted high;", "From Turan all your will shall come thereby."]}, {"id": "C2.14.31", "lines": ["Prepare what must be made; and let it be", "That Bijan from his bonds at last goes free.’”"]}, {"id": "C2.15.1", "lines": ["Giv took the letter after it was sealed,", "And blessed the Shah, and from his presence wheeled."]}, {"id": "C2.15.2", "lines": ["He came back to his house, and there prepared", "In haste the Sistan road that must be dared."]}, {"id": "C2.15.3", "lines": ["He horsed the riders of his house, and cried", "On Yazdan’s name, and in that name relied."]}, {"id": "C2.15.4", "lines": ["He rode toward Hirmund with a courier’s speed,", "Like startled game that flies before the steed."]}, {"id": "C2.15.5", "lines": ["Two days of travel he compressed in one,", "With wounded heart beneath the burning sun."]}, {"id": "C2.15.6", "lines": ["His group of men endured the road in pain,", "Through deserts vast and heights across the plain."]}, {"id": "C2.15.7", "lines": ["The watchman saw Giv riding into sight,", "And sent the word to Zabul from the height:"]}, {"id": "C2.15.8", "lines": ["“A rider rides toward Hirmund; at his back", "Are many riders following his track."]}, {"id": "C2.15.9", "lines": ["A standard flutters high behind his band,", "A Pahlevan’s bright blade is in his hand.”"]}, {"id": "C2.15.10", "lines": ["When Dastan, son of Sahm, had heard that cry,", "He ordered up his chestnut, saddled high."]}, {"id": "C2.15.11", "lines": ["He spurred ahead to meet the men unknown,", "And learn what purpose brought them near his throne."]}, {"id": "C2.15.12", "lines": ["But when he saw Giv’s withered face appear,", "He hurried on, astonished, full of fear."]}, {"id": "C2.15.13", "lines": ["He thought: “Some evil struck the Shah’s domain,", "For Giv has crossed this far and weary plain.”"]}, {"id": "C2.15.14", "lines": ["When Zal came near, they rose and took the way", "With reverence, and greeted him that day."]}, {"id": "C2.15.15", "lines": ["Zal asked of Iran, Khosrow, crown, and state,", "Its chiefs of war and Turan’s plans of late."]}, {"id": "C2.15.16", "lines": ["Giv gave the greetings of the king and peers,", "Then spoke about his son through grief and tears."]}, {"id": "C2.15.17", "lines": ["“You see me pale; my feet are bruised and dyed,", "With leopard-spots of blood from this hard ride.”"]}, {"id": "C2.15.18", "lines": ["He asked then after Rostam, and would know", "Where Tahamtan was; Dastan answered so:"]}, {"id": "C2.15.19", "lines": ["“He hunts the Gur-e-Khar; and when the sun", "Turns back, he will be here, his hunting done.”"]}, {"id": "C2.15.20", "lines": ["Giv said: “I shall go seek him where he rides;", "A letter from the Shah my journey guides.”"]}, {"id": "C2.15.21", "lines": ["Zal answered: “Go not hence; before the night", "He comes back from the hunting-ground’s far height."]}, {"id": "C2.15.22", "lines": ["Bide here till Rostam comes; and for today", "Be glad with me, and put your grief away.”"]}, {"id": "C2.15.23", "lines": ["Reflecting on the matter, they withdrew", "Toward Zal’s palace, hearts with grief shot through."]}, {"id": "C2.15.24", "lines": ["As Giv came in, brave Rostam entered too;", "Giv went to meet the champion he knew."]}, {"id": "C2.15.25", "lines": ["He neared him, then dismounted from his horse,", "Bowed low, and tears ran freely down their course."]}, {"id": "C2.15.26", "lines": ["His heart was full of yearning, grief, and dread;", "When Rostam saw him stricken, thus he said:"]}, {"id": "C2.15.27", "lines": ["“Iran and Khosrow, moon of all our age,", "Have fallen, or the world has turned its page?”"]}, {"id": "C2.15.28", "lines": ["He stepped down, clasped him close, and bade him share", "How Khosrow and the royal court might fare:"]}, {"id": "C2.15.29", "lines": ["Of Tus and Gostaham, Gudarz the old,", "Of chiefs who kept Iran’s frontiers controlled."]}, {"id": "C2.15.30", "lines": ["Of Shapur, Farhad, Rohham known to fame,", "Of Gorgin, then of Bijan’s state and name."]}, {"id": "C2.15.31", "lines": ["At Bijan’s name, Giv cried despite his will,", "Then spoke while anguish made his spirit still:"]}, {"id": "C2.15.32", "lines": ["“O honored prince, the earth’s most noble birth,", "The choicest of the mighty ones on earth,"]}, {"id": "C2.15.33", "lines": ["Joy has returned to me on seeing you,", "And hearing words both loyal, kind, and true."]}, {"id": "C2.15.34", "lines": ["All those you named are well and greetings send,", "With peace and messages from friend to friend."]}, {"id": "C2.15.35", "lines": ["Except Bijan, great champion of the brave,", "Whom Khosrow saw chained in a dungeon cave."]}, {"id": "C2.15.36", "lines": ["Now see what blow of fortune strikes my head;", "My single son is lost, perhaps near dead."]}, {"id": "C2.15.37", "lines": ["What evil eye has struck the Gudarz line,", "That gain has ended, and but loss is mine?"]}, {"id": "C2.15.38", "lines": ["He is my child, my helper, and my stay;", "No grief like mine has ever crossed my way."]}, {"id": "C2.15.39", "lines": ["He vanished from my sight in all the world;", "No grief like this on this our house was hurled."]}, {"id": "C2.15.40", "lines": ["Since then I ride without rest in my plight,", "Like one gone mad, to seek my vanished light."]}, {"id": "C2.15.41", "lines": ["For Bijan, ceaselessly, like one distraught,", "From every quarter of the world I sought."]}, {"id": "C2.15.42", "lines": ["The Shah, the world-revealing cup in hand,", "Before the World-Creator took his stand."]}, {"id": "C2.15.43", "lines": ["He cried aloud and made his praises rise", "At Ormozd of Farvardin, Kayanian wise."]}, {"id": "C2.15.44", "lines": ["He left the fire-temple when done with prayer,", "Girt up his belt, and took the royal chair."]}, {"id": "C2.15.45", "lines": ["He set the shining cup, and in its glare", "He searched beyond all measure everywhere."]}, {"id": "C2.15.46", "lines": ["He looked; and deep in dark Turan he found", "Bijan in chains beneath the pit-black ground."]}, {"id": "C2.15.47", "lines": ["In Turan there the Shah beheld him bound", "In heavy chains, and evil days around."]}, {"id": "C2.15.48", "lines": ["When thus the cup revealed him, at that hour", "He sped me here to you, and to your power."]}, {"id": "C2.15.49", "lines": ["My cheeks are pale, my eyes with sorrow dim;", "I look to you alone to rescue him."]}, {"id": "C2.15.50", "lines": ["You bind your belt to answer every cry,", "And lift the helpless when their hopes run dry.”"]}, {"id": "C2.15.51", "lines": ["Giv spoke; his lashes brimmed with bitter tears,", "His cold sigh rose from grief and father’s fears."]}, {"id": "C2.15.52", "lines": ["He gave the letter into Rostam’s hand,", "And told how Gorgin ruined all he planned."]}, {"id": "C2.15.53", "lines": ["He took the letter; both his eyes ran wet,", "His heart with hate for Afrasiab beset."]}, {"id": "C2.15.54", "lines": ["Then for Bijan he wept aloud in pain,", "And from his eyes the blood poured down like rain."]}, {"id": "C2.15.55", "lines": ["For Giv and Rostam shared a bond well known:", "Giv wed brave Rostam’s daughter as his own."]}, {"id": "C2.15.56", "lines": ["Giv’s sister too became brave Rostam’s wife,", "And bore him Faramarz, his pride in life."]}, {"id": "C2.15.57", "lines": ["Thus Bijan, honored under every sky,", "Was Rostam’s daughter’s son through that first tie."]}, {"id": "C2.15.58", "lines": ["Then Rostam said: “Take heart; dismiss your fear.", "Rakhsh keeps his saddle till the road is clear."]}, {"id": "C2.15.59", "lines": ["Not till I take Bijan’s own hand, and break", "His prison and his bonds for his own sake."]}, {"id": "C2.15.60", "lines": ["By Yazdan’s might, and by the Shah’s command,", "I turn that crown and throne from Turan’s land.”"]}, {"id": "C2.16.1", "lines": ["They went from there to Rostam’s royal hall,", "And weighed what course would best befit them all."]}, {"id": "C2.16.2", "lines": ["When Rostam read the monarch’s letter through,", "Bewilderment at Khosrow’s words then grew."]}, {"id": "C2.16.3", "lines": ["Before the court, the Shah had praised his name,", "And hailed his captain, crowned with deathless fame."]}, {"id": "C2.16.4", "lines": ["Then Rostam said to Giv: “I will prepare,", "And go as Khosrow bids, with loyal care."]}, {"id": "C2.16.5", "lines": ["I know your labors and your deeds in war,", "And all the weight of tasks your shoulders bore."]}, {"id": "C2.16.6", "lines": ["Your honored place beside me is well known;", "In every war your loyalty was shown."]}, {"id": "C2.16.7", "lines": ["To avenge Siavash, you took the field,", "And in Mazandaran bore sword and shield."]}, {"id": "C2.16.8", "lines": ["You too have borne great hardship coming here,", "Across a road of toil and pain and fear."]}, {"id": "C2.16.9", "lines": ["I see your face with joy and with relief,", "Though I am bowed for Bijan, deep in grief."]}, {"id": "C2.16.10", "lines": ["I cannot bear to see your grief remain,", "Or watch misfortune deepen all your pain."]}, {"id": "C2.16.11", "lines": ["As Khosrow orders in this royal word,", "I take the road, with heart and spirit stirred."]}, {"id": "C2.16.12", "lines": ["My liver bleeds for you; for Bijan’s sake", "My belt is girded, and this road I take."]}, {"id": "C2.16.13", "lines": ["I shall do all I can, if Yazdan’s grace", "Preserves my life throughout the task I face."]}, {"id": "C2.16.14", "lines": ["For Bijan I shall spare no wealth or breath,", "No troops or treasure, though it lead to death."]}, {"id": "C2.16.15", "lines": ["Through Yazdan’s strength and our king’s fortune bright,", "I rise at once and gird myself to fight."]}, {"id": "C2.16.16", "lines": ["I bring him from that bond and dark pit free,", "And seat him where the Shah his face may see."]}, {"id": "C2.16.17", "lines": ["Stay here three days with me in joy and wine;", "Cast off your care, and let your spirit shine."]}, {"id": "C2.16.18", "lines": ["My house and treasure both are yours today;", "Between our hearts no wall shall bar the way."]}, {"id": "C2.16.19", "lines": ["Three days beneath this roof we shall be glad,", "And call to mind the chiefs Iran has had."]}, {"id": "C2.16.20", "lines": ["Upon the fourth we ride for Iran’s town,", "And seek the Shah of brave men and renown.”"]}, {"id": "C2.16.21", "lines": ["At this, Giv sprang up, kissed his hands and feet,", "And praised the hero with devotion sweet:"]}, {"id": "C2.16.22", "lines": ["“Exalted one, forever may you stand", "And glory in the strength of Yazdan’s hand."]}, {"id": "C2.16.23", "lines": ["O man of name, of fortune, worth, and might,", "Be greatness yours, and bounty at its height."]}, {"id": "C2.16.24", "lines": ["May elephant-strength and courage with you stay,", "While Mobad wisdom guides you on your way."]}, {"id": "C2.16.25", "lines": ["All excellence is gathered now in you;", "You cleanse my heart from rust and make it new.”"]}, {"id": "C2.16.26", "lines": ["When Rostam saw Giv’s heart grow calm and sure,", "And knew that hope would help his grief endure,"]}, {"id": "C2.16.27", "lines": ["He told his steward: “Spread a feast, and send", "For chiefs and sages; bid them all attend.”"]}, {"id": "C2.16.28", "lines": ["Then Faramarz, Zavareh, Zal drew near,", "And Giv joined Rostam’s feast, released from fear."]}, {"id": "C2.16.29", "lines": ["They ate their bread, and when the meal was sped,", "A place of gladness in the hall they spread."]}, {"id": "C2.16.30", "lines": ["The rud-player and cupbearer came where", "The eyvan’s gem-wrought figures lit the air."]}, {"id": "C2.16.31", "lines": ["All hands were ruby from the ruby’s stream;", "The chang wailed loud, the bright cup all agleam."]}, {"id": "C2.16.32", "lines": ["Thus Rostam set the feast, whose hand was skilled", "To order razm o bazm as he willed."]}, {"id": "C2.16.33", "lines": ["Three days at wine within his eyvan’s shade,", "Rostam remained, and no departure made."]}, {"id": "C2.16.34", "lines": ["Then Rostam, son of Zal, of Sahm’s own blood,", "Rose up and took the cup’s red-flowing flood."]}, {"id": "C2.16.35", "lines": ["He said: “Upon the Shah’s high fortune sworn,", "I make our enemies a folk forlorn."]}, {"id": "C2.16.36", "lines": ["I strive that all Turan, for Bijan’s wrong,", "Shall break into one wailing loud and long.”"]}, {"id": "C2.17.1", "lines": ["The fourth day came; they readied to depart,", "And Rostam gave the order, firm of heart."]}, {"id": "C2.17.2", "lines": ["He charged them pack the loads and make the train", "Prepared to take the road toward Iran’s plain."]}, {"id": "C2.17.3", "lines": ["His noble horsemen stood before his door,", "Equipped for travel, strong and armed for war."]}, {"id": "C2.17.4", "lines": ["He came forth, mounted Rakhsh, his belt drawn tight,", "In Roman vest, prepared for coming fight."]}, {"id": "C2.17.5", "lines": ["His forebear’s gorz hung at his saddle’s side,", "While strength and strategy became his guide."]}, {"id": "C2.17.6", "lines": ["Rakhsh reared his ears against the wheeling sphere;", "Above the sun the Crown-Giver rose clear."]}, {"id": "C2.17.7", "lines": ["They lifted loads; in Zabul, Faramarz", "Remained to guard the land beneath the stars."]}, {"id": "C2.17.8", "lines": ["A hundred Zabul horse, girt for the war,", "Rode out with Rostam and with Giv before."]}, {"id": "C2.17.9", "lines": ["They marched toward Iran with eager speed,", "And vengeance burned in every heart and deed."]}, {"id": "C2.17.10", "lines": ["When Rostam neared the court and royal throne,", "The halls of Kay Khosrow brightly shone."]}, {"id": "C2.17.11", "lines": ["A sweet breeze met him, full of joy and grace,", "As heaven welcomed him to that bright place."]}, {"id": "C2.17.12", "lines": ["Then Giv drew near and said: “I should ride on,", "And tell the Shah before another dawn."]}, {"id": "C2.17.13", "lines": ["I shall report that matchless Rakhsh has sped,", "With Rostam and his warriors at their head.”"]}, {"id": "C2.17.14", "lines": ["Said Rostam: “Go rejoicing; tell the king:", "Be free from grief; let hope and gladness spring.”"]}, {"id": "C2.17.15", "lines": ["Giv bore the news, and to the Shah he came,", "Clean-hearted, and his road as clean of blame."]}, {"id": "C2.17.16", "lines": ["When Giv approached the throne, he bowed and knelt,", "And gave the Shah his praise, sincerely felt."]}, {"id": "C2.17.17", "lines": ["The Shah asked: “Where is Rostam on the way?", "How went the march? What news have you today?”"]}, {"id": "C2.17.18", "lines": ["Giv answered: “Shah renowned, your fortune bright", "Turns every difficult labor into light."]}, {"id": "C2.17.19", "lines": ["He did not disobey your royal word;", "His heart was yours as soon as it was heard."]}, {"id": "C2.17.20", "lines": ["When I delivered your exalted scroll,", "He pressed it to his eyes with faithful soul."]}, {"id": "C2.17.21", "lines": ["He matched his reins with mine, as comrades do,", "And bound his will in loyalty to you."]}, {"id": "C2.17.22", "lines": ["I hurried on ahead so I might say", "That matchless Rostam travels on the way.”"]}, {"id": "C2.17.23", "lines": ["Khosrow replied: “Where is that prop of chiefs,", "That seed of loyalty who ends our griefs?"]}, {"id": "C2.17.24", "lines": ["We must show honor to so good a friend,", "So faithful that his service has no end.”"]}, {"id": "C2.17.25", "lines": ["Then Giv replied, in low and private tone,", "In words that fit the holder of the throne."]}, {"id": "C2.17.26", "lines": ["“Two stages back,” he said, “he marches; straight", "I came ahead to ease your anxious wait.”"]}, {"id": "C2.17.27", "lines": ["Then Kay Khosrow commanded every sage,", "The Khosrow-born, the freemen of his age,"]}, {"id": "C2.17.28", "lines": ["To join the court and greet him on the way,", "Who came obedient to the Shah that day."]}, {"id": "C2.17.29", "lines": ["They summoned Tus, Gudarz of Keshvad’s line,", "And Farhad, honored where the brave men shine."]}, {"id": "C2.17.30", "lines": ["Two parts in three of all the champions rose,", "Exalted heads, and slayers of their foes."]}, {"id": "C2.17.31", "lines": ["After Kay Kavus’s rite they came and dressed", "The greeting-train in all its ancient best."]}, {"id": "C2.17.32", "lines": ["The world grew azure-dim beneath their dust,", "The standards streamed; the chargers onward thrust."]}, {"id": "C2.17.33", "lines": ["When they drew near, they halted in acclaim,", "Dismounted, bowed, and hailed great Rostam’s name."]}, {"id": "C2.17.34", "lines": ["The World-Pahlevan lighted from his ride,", "And Pahlevans bowed low on every side."]}, {"id": "C2.17.35", "lines": ["He asked of each: how does the Shah remain,", "That turning sun, that moon without a wane?"]}, {"id": "C2.17.36", "lines": ["The chiefs took seat; and Rostam on his horse", "Shone like Azargashasp along their course."]}, {"id": "C2.17.37", "lines": ["And from that place toward the Shah they pressed,", "With Rostam at the forefront of the rest."]}, {"id": "C2.17.38", "lines": ["He came before the Shah who loved his men,", "With measured tread, and bent in reverence then."]}, {"id": "C2.17.39", "lines": ["With devotion and love he bowed; then raised", "His head before the Shah, and spoke, and praised:"]}, {"id": "C2.17.40", "lines": ["“Be joined with throne and fortune all your years;", "May Ormozd guard this court from harms and fears."]}, {"id": "C2.17.41", "lines": ["May Bahman guard your throne and royal crown,", "And Ordibehesht keep every evil down."]}, {"id": "C2.17.42", "lines": ["May Bahram guard you, and may Tir the same,", "Through all the year be warden of your name."]}, {"id": "C2.17.43", "lines": ["May Shahrivar be victory, and fill", "Your name with greatness, farr, and every skill."]}, {"id": "C2.17.44", "lines": ["May Sapandarmad keep your soul secure,", "And wisdom light your spirit, bright and pure."]}, {"id": "C2.17.45", "lines": ["May Khordad bring you fruit from helping hands,", "And Mordad make you glad in crop and lands."]}, {"id": "C2.17.46", "lines": ["May Dey and Farvardin bless every door,", "And bar all evil from your royal floor."]}, {"id": "C2.17.47", "lines": ["May Azar make your nights as bright as day;", "Be glad; your crown lights all the world’s array.”"]}, {"id": "C2.17.48", "lines": ["When Rostam standing there had offered praise,", "The king received him, joy within his gaze."]}, {"id": "C2.17.49", "lines": ["He said: “You come in blessing to my sight;", "May evil’s hand stay distant from your light."]}, {"id": "C2.17.50", "lines": ["The Pahlevan of Kayanian are you;", "Your hidden shows, your shown lies hidden too."]}, {"id": "C2.17.51", "lines": ["Chosen of Kayanian, and army’s fort,", "Iran’s strong wall, her shelter and support."]}, {"id": "C2.17.52", "lines": ["You gladden me, who come before my eyes", "With that skilled, wakeful spirit, keen and wise."]}, {"id": "C2.17.53", "lines": ["Zavareh, Faramarz, Zal of Sahm, all three:", "Are they in health? What message comes to me?”"]}, {"id": "C2.17.54", "lines": ["Rostam bowed low and kissed the throne, and said:", "“O famed Khosrow, whom fortune ever led,"]}, {"id": "C2.17.55", "lines": ["By your own farr all three are well and sound;", "And blest is he the Shah’s own thought has found.”"]}, {"id": "C2.18.1", "lines": ["The chamberlain threw wide the garden gate,", "And made all ready for the royal state."]}, {"id": "C2.18.2", "lines": ["He set the golden crown and throne, the pair,", "Beneath a rose-strewn bower of scented air."]}, {"id": "C2.18.3", "lines": ["He spread the court brocade across the ground,", "Till lamplight filled the garden all around."]}, {"id": "C2.18.4", "lines": ["Above the Shah’s high throne they raised a shade,", "A jeweled tree whose limbs of gold were made."]}, {"id": "C2.18.5", "lines": ["Its trunk was silver, branches made of gold,", "With clustered jewels wondrous to behold."]}, {"id": "C2.18.6", "lines": ["Its leaves were emerald and carnelian red,", "Its jeweled fruits hung earring-like overhead."]}, {"id": "C2.18.7", "lines": ["The fruits were golden quince and citron shells,", "All hollow, pierced like reeds in fragrant cells."]}, {"id": "C2.18.8", "lines": ["They filled each fruit with musk dissolved in wine,", "So breezes scattered fragrance through the shrine."]}, {"id": "C2.18.9", "lines": ["When any kingly guest approached the throne,", "The musk rained down, its fragrance round him blown."]}, {"id": "C2.18.10", "lines": ["Such showers fell when royal Khosrow neared,", "And took the golden throne the court revered."]}, {"id": "C2.18.11", "lines": ["Before the Shah the cupbearers were set,", "Each brow beneath a jeweled coronet."]}, {"id": "C2.18.12", "lines": ["In Chin brocade and Roman robes ornate,", "They stood before the sepahbod to wait."]}, {"id": "C2.18.13", "lines": ["With torques bound on and earrings burning bright,", "Their robes were sewn with jewels, light on light."]}, {"id": "C2.18.14", "lines": ["Their cheeks were like the Roman brocade’s shade;", "The aloe blazed, the clamoring chang played."]}, {"id": "C2.18.15", "lines": ["The Shah then told the chamberlain on hand:", "“Call Tus, Gudarz, and chiefs of every band.”"]}, {"id": "C2.18.16", "lines": ["He ordered Rostam near the throne to be,", "And sit beside him underneath the tree."]}, {"id": "C2.18.17", "lines": ["Wine in their hands, their cheeks like redbud flushed,", "Yet none was overcome or dulled or hushed."]}, {"id": "C2.18.18", "lines": ["He said: “O guardian joined to throne and fate,", "Our fortune’s friend, our shield at every gate,"]}, {"id": "C2.18.19", "lines": ["You stand between Iran and every ill,", "Like Simorgh wings outspread above us still."]}, {"id": "C2.18.20", "lines": ["In Iran’s field, and where Kayanians sit,", "At toil’s own door your belt is always knit."]}, {"id": "C2.18.21", "lines": ["You know the house of Gudarz, what they bear:", "Ease, and hard toil, and gain, and loss, and care."]}, {"id": "C2.18.22", "lines": ["Girt-belted they stand ready at my side,", "And evermore to good have been my guide."]}, {"id": "C2.18.23", "lines": ["Of all my men, Giv only has kept guard,", "A shield to me when every ill pressed hard."]}, {"id": "C2.18.24", "lines": ["No grief like this has struck that noble one;", "What grief is greater than to lose a son?"]}, {"id": "C2.18.25", "lines": ["Unless you take this burden as your own,", "No other cure or path to me is known."]}, {"id": "C2.18.26", "lines": ["Now find a remedy for Bijan’s pain,", "Whom dark Turan has bound in iron chain."]}, {"id": "C2.18.27", "lines": ["Take steeds and armor, men and treasure too,", "Whatever is required, I grant to you."]}, {"id": "C2.18.28", "lines": ["Do not regard this charge as heavy toil.”", "Then Rostam kissed, in reverence, the soil."]}, {"id": "C2.18.29", "lines": ["He rose and blessed the Shah: “O king of fame,", "Whose sunlike power crowns your royal name,"]}, {"id": "C2.18.30", "lines": ["Far be all greed from you, and need’s dim eye;", "And let your foe’s heart burn and melt thereby."]}, {"id": "C2.18.31", "lines": ["You are the Shah, the chief above all kings;", "Before your feet each crowned head homage brings."]}, {"id": "C2.18.32", "lines": ["The throne, the bright sun, and the shining moon", "Have never seen your equal night or noon."]}, {"id": "C2.18.33", "lines": ["You know the difference between good and bad,", "And chained the Dragon when the world was mad."]}, {"id": "C2.18.34", "lines": ["My mother bore me to labor for you;", "Your portion is repose and pleasure too."]}, {"id": "C2.18.35", "lines": ["I am obedient to the Shah’s command,", "And go wherever duty makes me stand."]}, {"id": "C2.18.36", "lines": ["Mazandaran’s own Div—his heart I tore,", "By Kayanian farr, by the gorz I bore."]}, {"id": "C2.18.37", "lines": ["So for Giv’s sake, though heaven should rain fire,", "I will not turn from Khosrow’s high desire."]}, {"id": "C2.18.38", "lines": ["Though spearpoints reach the lashes of my eyes,", "I shall not turn my rein beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "C2.18.39", "lines": ["By your own farr this labor I sustain;", "I want no sepahbod, no chosen train.”"]}, {"id": "C2.18.40", "lines": ["Gudarz and Giv, when Rostam’s words were done,", "Brave Shapur, Farhad, Fariborz, each one,"]}, {"id": "C2.18.41", "lines": ["The army’s great ones blessed him, calling down", "The World-Creator’s favor on his crown."]}, {"id": "C2.18.42", "lines": ["They set their hands to wine beside the king,", "With hearts thrown open to the glad new spring."]}, {"id": "C2.19.1", "lines": ["When Gorgin heard that Rostam had drawn near,", "He thought a path to freedom might appear."]}, {"id": "C2.19.2", "lines": ["He sent this message: “Man of farr and fame,", "Great tree of loyalty and noble name,"]}, {"id": "C2.19.3", "lines": ["Refuge of nobles when misfortunes press,", "If words of mine will not increase distress,"]}, {"id": "C2.19.4", "lines": ["Then I shall tell what evil I have done;", "Behold the crooked sky, the turning sun."]}, {"id": "C2.19.5", "lines": ["It quenched the light that burned within my heart,", "And drew me toward the darkness from the start."]}, {"id": "C2.19.6", "lines": ["So it was written; what has been is past.", "Before the Shah I now must face fire’s blast."]}, {"id": "C2.19.7", "lines": ["If I may find forgiveness, I shall go;", "That so my name may turn from evil’s woe."]}, {"id": "C2.19.8", "lines": ["In my gray years this was my end and fate:", "My gray head bows beneath dishonor’s weight."]}, {"id": "C2.19.9", "lines": ["So if you plead for me, I shall come too,", "Swift as a mountain sheep, along with you."]}, {"id": "C2.19.10", "lines": ["Before Bijan I shall bow in the dust,", "If I may win back honor, name, and trust.”"]}, {"id": "C2.19.11", "lines": ["When Gorgin’s message reached him, Rostam sighed", "One cold breath from the liver, deep inside."]}, {"id": "C2.19.12", "lines": ["He writhed at that man’s pain, that plea of his;", "Grief took him for a wish so vain as this."]}, {"id": "C2.19.13", "lines": ["He sent the envoy back, and gave him word:", "“Say: ‘Vain, unclean of soul; let this be heard:"]}, {"id": "C2.19.14", "lines": ["Have you not heard the ancient leopard’s lore,", "His fight with nahang on that deep sea-floor?"]}, {"id": "C2.19.15", "lines": ["When passion overmasters reason’s light,", "No living soul escapes its fatal bite."]}, {"id": "C2.19.16", "lines": ["The sage who bridles passion earns renown,", "And wears a lion’s record like a crown."]}, {"id": "C2.19.17", "lines": ["He need not turn his face toward the chase,", "Nor suffer harm from beasts in any place."]}, {"id": "C2.19.18", "lines": ["You played the fox; the hunter’s hidden skill", "Has trapped you in his snare against your will."]}, {"id": "C2.19.19", "lines": ["I should not grant your frantic wish today,", "Nor bring your name before the Shah this way."]}, {"id": "C2.19.20", "lines": ["Yet since I see you trapped in such distress,", "Confounded and cast down by your excess,"]}, {"id": "C2.19.21", "lines": ["I will ask Khosrow to forgive your crime,", "And brighten your dark moon in coming time."]}, {"id": "C2.19.22", "lines": ["Then, if Bijan, by the World-Lord’s command,", "Be loosed from bond by the Dispenser’s hand,"]}, {"id": "C2.19.23", "lines": ["You too will be loosed from bond, your life clear;", "The ill-willer’s blood-claim would not come near."]}, {"id": "C2.19.24", "lines": ["But if heaven judges otherwise for him,", "Then love your life no more; your hope grows dim."]}, {"id": "C2.19.25", "lines": ["First, I shall ride upon the rescue quest,", "In Yazdan’s strength and at the Shah’s behest."]}, {"id": "C2.19.26", "lines": ["And if I come not, then Gudarz and Giv", "Will claim the brave son’s blood, and none reprieve.’”"]}, {"id": "C2.19.27", "lines": ["Two days and one night passed; he spoke no word", "To Khosrow yet, though all his thought was stirred."]}, {"id": "C2.19.28", "lines": ["But when the third day’s sun displayed its crown,", "And on its throne of ivory sat down,"]}, {"id": "C2.19.29", "lines": ["Then Rostam came and made his asking known", "Before the Shah whose sunlike farr was shown."]}, {"id": "C2.19.30", "lines": ["He spoke of Gorgin, fallen from his height,", "His ruined fortune and his wretched plight."]}, {"id": "C2.19.31", "lines": ["The Shah said: “O my sepahdar, you tear", "My bond apart, and break the oath I swear."]}, {"id": "C2.19.32", "lines": ["I swore by throne and crown, by Mars and sun,", "By moon and Venus: mercy shall be none."]}, {"id": "C2.19.33", "lines": ["Unless Bijan is freed from bondage grim,", "No good or grace shall fall from me to him."]}, {"id": "C2.19.34", "lines": ["Ask swords or signets, crowns or thrones from me;", "All else is yours, but this shall never be.”"]}, {"id": "C2.19.35", "lines": ["Rostam replied: “O virtuous prince of fame,", "Though he meant harm, he suffers grief and shame."]}, {"id": "C2.19.36", "lines": ["He stands prepared to offer up his life;", "Your pardon now would end his inward strife."]}, {"id": "C2.19.37", "lines": ["And if it come not, then his life is reft,", "And of his name and faith is nothing left."]}, {"id": "C2.19.38", "lines": ["Whoever leaves the road of wisdom must", "At last writhe at his own deed in the dust."]}, {"id": "C2.19.39", "lines": ["Recall his feats, the battles he has won,", "His service to your house from sire to son."]}, {"id": "C2.19.40", "lines": ["Girt-belted in your forefathers’ own sight,", "At every blood-field with some foe to fight."]}, {"id": "C2.19.41", "lines": ["If the Shah find it fitting, grant him grace", "To me; let his good star shine in its place.”"]}, {"id": "C2.19.42", "lines": ["The Shah, for Rostam’s sake, removed his chain,", "And freed Gorgin from fetters, grief, and pain."]}, {"id": "C2.20.1", "lines": ["The Shah asked Rostam: “When will you depart?", "What aid is needed? Speak now from your heart."]}, {"id": "C2.20.2", "lines": ["Ask troops and treasure, comrades for the way;", "I fear Afrasiab will not delay."]}, {"id": "C2.20.3", "lines": ["He will not spare Bijan for many days;", "The headstrong king is fierce in all his ways."]}, {"id": "C2.20.4", "lines": ["A light-head he, a Div of wretched kind;", "Akvan has given him his spells to bind."]}, {"id": "C2.20.5", "lines": ["Ahriman moves his heart from its own seat,", "And casts that swordsman down beneath his feet.”"]}, {"id": "C2.20.6", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered: “Stealth must win the day;", "Craft is the key that opens the right way."]}, {"id": "C2.20.7", "lines": ["We must not give Turan a cause for fear,", "But go as merchants, clothed in merchant gear."]}, {"id": "C2.20.8", "lines": ["We must remain in Turan for a while;", "This task requires deception, care, and guile."]}, {"id": "C2.20.9", "lines": ["It is no time for gorz or blade or spear;", "I need much silver, gold, and jewels here."]}, {"id": "C2.20.10", "lines": ["We leave in hope yet may be long delayed;", "Bring robes and carpets, finest goods of trade."]}, {"id": "C2.20.11", "lines": ["Some will be gifts, and some our merchandise.”", "Khosrow approved the plan, both shrewd and wise."]}, {"id": "C2.20.12", "lines": ["He ordered then the treasurer: “Bring all", "That Rostam asks from ancient hoard and hall.”"]}, {"id": "C2.20.13", "lines": ["The treasurer opened chests beside the throne,", "And gems and heaps of minted gold were shown."]}, {"id": "C2.20.14", "lines": ["Then matchless Rostam viewed the gathered prize,", "And chose what best would suit his merchant guise."]}, {"id": "C2.20.15", "lines": ["He took ten camel-loads of minted gold,", "And five score loads of goods from stores of old."]}, {"id": "C2.20.16", "lines": ["He told the chamberlain: “Choose, man by man,", "A thousand horsemen for the caravan."]}, {"id": "C2.20.17", "lines": ["Of proud, famed chiefs a certain number must", "Gird up their belts and ride and prove their trust."]}, {"id": "C2.20.18", "lines": ["Gorgin, and Zangeh of Shavaran born,", "Gostaham next, the lion, battle-worn."]}, {"id": "C2.20.19", "lines": ["And fourth Guraza, who shall drive the fight,", "Guard of the chiefs, and of the throne’s own right."]}, {"id": "C2.20.20", "lines": ["Then Rohham and brave Farhad, tested, tried,", "And Ashkash, lion-hearted, at their side."]}, {"id": "C2.20.21", "lines": ["These seven warriors must be armed and ready", "To guard the goods and hold the column steady.”"]}, {"id": "C2.20.22", "lines": ["Each took his charge and readied for the start,", "Each vying in his task with eager heart."]}, {"id": "C2.20.23", "lines": ["When word came to the Shah’s own chiefs, they made", "Their way to court again, in slow parade."]}, {"id": "C2.20.24", "lines": ["Then Zangeh asked: “Where is our Khosrow? Say—", "What has befallen, that he calls today?”"]}, {"id": "C2.21.1", "lines": ["The watch chief reached the gate before daylight;", "The warriors buckled belts, prepared to fight."]}, {"id": "C2.21.2", "lines": ["The chiefs went first; the soldiers followed fast,", "Their lives in hand, prepared to breathe their last."]}, {"id": "C2.21.3", "lines": ["The troops marched fully armed across the land,", "And battle’s blood was known to every hand."]}, {"id": "C2.21.4", "lines": ["At dawn, the cocks cried out to greet the day;", "Tabiras thundered where the palace lay."]}, {"id": "C2.21.5", "lines": ["Then Rostam came, a cypress, well equipped,", "His kamand on his saddle, gorz close-gripped."]}, {"id": "C2.21.6", "lines": ["He left the royal portal with his train,", "And blessed the land before he crossed the plain."]}, {"id": "C2.21.7", "lines": ["When Rostam reached the borders of Turan,", "He chose seven chiefs, each proven Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C2.21.8", "lines": ["Then Rostam told the army gathered near:", "“Stay here with cheerful hearts and free of fear."]}, {"id": "C2.21.9", "lines": ["Do not depart unless the Holy One", "Parts soul from body, and my life is done."]}, {"id": "C2.21.10", "lines": ["Stay armed for battle, ready for the fray,", "With claws honed sharp for blood, to rend your prey.”"]}, {"id": "C2.21.11", "lines": ["Thus at the border he left all his force,", "And with the chiefs through Turan set his course."]}, {"id": "C2.21.12", "lines": ["He loosed his belt and put on merchant guise;", "His warriors hid their strength from hostile eyes."]}, {"id": "C2.21.13", "lines": ["The chiefs unbound the silver belts they bore,", "And dressed in woolen robes that merchants wore."]}, {"id": "C2.21.14", "lines": ["They rode through Turan as a merchant train,", "With fragrant goods that colored all the plain."]}, {"id": "C2.21.15", "lines": ["There were eight steeds: one Rakhsh, renowned and bright,", "The others bore his chosen men of might."]}, {"id": "C2.21.16", "lines": ["Ten camels carried jewels in their load;", "A hundred bore the garments troops had stowed."]}, {"id": "C2.21.17", "lines": ["With clanging bells and cries, the sound was borne", "As though it came from Tahmuras’ great horn."]}, {"id": "C2.21.18", "lines": ["So, Rostam marched on with his merchant crowd;", "The country around them shook, their clamor loud."]}, {"id": "C2.21.19", "lines": ["As they drew near Khutan, beside the way", "Came men and women, watching the display."]}, {"id": "C2.21.20", "lines": ["Piran was absent from his hall of state;", "No one stood waiting at the palace gate."]}, {"id": "C2.21.21", "lines": ["Then Piran rode back from the hunting ground;", "Great Rostam saw him on the road, homebound."]}, {"id": "C2.21.22", "lines": ["He filled a golden cup with gems, then laid", "Across its mouth a cloth of bright brocade."]}, {"id": "C2.21.23", "lines": ["Two noble steeds stood splendid to the sight;", "Their saddles shone with gems and golden light;"]}, {"id": "C2.21.24", "lines": ["He gave the gifts to servants, went ahead,", "And swiftly toward the court of Piran sped."]}, {"id": "C2.21.25", "lines": ["He bowed and said: “O prince whose fame and worth", "Are known through Iran and Turan on earth,"]}, {"id": "C2.21.26", "lines": ["Your grace and crown are peerless in the land;", "You grace the throne, the king’s own guiding hand.”"]}, {"id": "C2.21.27", "lines": ["The Maker shaped his features by His grace;", "By God’s decree Piran knew not his face,"]}, {"id": "C2.21.28", "lines": ["But asked him: “Who are you, and from what place?", "How have you come here at so swift a pace?”"]}, {"id": "C2.21.29", "lines": ["He said: “I am your subject; by decree,", "God grants my living in your town to me."]}, {"id": "C2.21.30", "lines": ["I crossed a long and grievous road for gain,", "From Iran into Turan with my train."]}, {"id": "C2.21.31", "lines": ["I buy and sell whatever merchants bear,", "And bring you wares both valuable and rare."]}, {"id": "C2.21.32", "lines": ["My soul has trusted in your love and name;", "Hope’s power drew my heart toward your fame."]}, {"id": "C2.21.33", "lines": ["If now the Pahlevan will grant me shade,", "I shall sell gems and buy livestock in trade."]}, {"id": "C2.21.34", "lines": ["Through your just rule no hand will do me wrong;", "May clouds of love rain gems on me for long.”"]}, {"id": "C2.21.35", "lines": ["Then Rostam laid before the prince’s eyes", "The cup, amid the chiefs, a royal prize."]}, {"id": "C2.21.36", "lines": ["The Arab steeds were splendid, sleek and fair;", "No wind could leave its dust upon a hair."]}, {"id": "C2.21.37", "lines": ["With blessings, Rostam gave the gifts he brought,", "And thus arranged the business as he sought."]}, {"id": "C2.21.38", "lines": ["Then Piran looked upon the jewels bright", "That filled the gleaming cup with sparkling light."]}, {"id": "C2.21.39", "lines": ["He sat Rostam upon the turquoise throne,", "And praised and welcomed him in kindly tone:"]}, {"id": "C2.21.40", "lines": ["“Enter the city gladly, free of fear;", "I shall lodge you safely, close beside me here."]}, {"id": "C2.21.41", "lines": ["Set all your fears to rest about your store;", "No man will fight you for the goods you bore."]}, {"id": "C2.21.42", "lines": ["Fetch all your wares and set out every bale;", "Find willing purchasers and make your sale."]}, {"id": "C2.21.43", "lines": ["Make my son’s house your home within this land,", "And stand to me as kinsman, hand in hand.”"]}, {"id": "C2.21.44", "lines": ["Rostam replied: “O chief, I shall stay here,", "With cheerful heart, content and free of fear."]}, {"id": "C2.21.45", "lines": ["All that I own is yours, in every way;", "And any place will suit me for my stay."]}, {"id": "C2.21.46", "lines": ["My caravan and I shall lodge outside;", "I shall remain there, with my train beside."]}, {"id": "C2.21.47", "lines": ["With people of all kinds among my train,", "I must ensure that all the gems remain.”"]}, {"id": "C2.21.48", "lines": ["Piran said: “Choose the place where you would stay;", "I will post guards to keep all harm away.”"]}, {"id": "C2.21.49", "lines": ["So Rostam chose a house and filled its space;", "He set his goods and baggage in their place."]}, {"id": "C2.21.50", "lines": ["News spread: “A caravan has come from Iran", "To visit Piran, noble Pahlevan.”"]}, {"id": "C2.21.51", "lines": ["The buyers pricked their ears at what they heard:", "A merchant dealt in gems, so ran the word."]}, {"id": "C2.21.52", "lines": ["Those seeking gems, brocades, and carpets came", "To Piran’s gate, their purpose all the same."]}, {"id": "C2.21.53", "lines": ["The rising sun adorned the earth’s broad face;", "By dawn, the warehouse turned to marketplace."]}, {"id": "C2.22.1", "lines": ["News reached Manijeh of the caravan;", "To seek the merchant, into town she ran."]}, {"id": "C2.22.2", "lines": ["Bareheaded, weeping, worn with grief, heart-sore,", "Afrasiab’s daughter came to his door."]}, {"id": "C2.22.3", "lines": ["She wiped her bloody tears upon her sleeve,", "And blessed him, asking what news she might receive:"]}, {"id": "C2.22.4", "lines": ["“May life and wealth be yours and long remain;", "May all your toil leave no regret or pain."]}, {"id": "C2.22.5", "lines": ["May heaven turn according to your will;", "May evil’s eye bring you no harm or ill."]}, {"id": "C2.22.6", "lines": ["May hope fulfill the venture you have planned;", "May all your labor prosper in your hand."]}, {"id": "C2.22.7", "lines": ["May wisdom be your counselor and guide,", "May blessed Iran have fortune on its side."]}, {"id": "C2.22.8", "lines": ["What news have you of warriors of Iran,", "Of Giv, Gudarz, and every Pahlevan?"]}, {"id": "C2.22.9", "lines": ["Has news of Bijan not reached Iran’s ear?", "Will not his grandfather bring rescue here?"]}, {"id": "C2.22.10", "lines": ["That youth, a scion of Gudarz’s line,", "Is bowed by pain that seems to break his spine."]}, {"id": "C2.22.11", "lines": ["His feet are galled by fetters’ crushing bands;", "The blacksmiths’ iron rivets bind his hands."]}, {"id": "C2.22.12", "lines": ["Poor wretch, his garments with his blood are wet;", "He lies in chains, his bonds about him set."]}, {"id": "C2.22.13", "lines": ["His lamentations fill my eyes with tears;", "No sleep can soothe my care for him, my fears."]}, {"id": "C2.22.14", "lines": ["If you should travel to Iran one day,", "Where famous men and mighty warriors stay,"]}, {"id": "C2.22.15", "lines": ["And see Giv there before the royal throne,", "Or valiant Rostam, let his plight be known."]}, {"id": "C2.22.16", "lines": ["Tell them that Bijan languishes in chains;", "Delay will only multiply his pains.”"]}, {"id": "C2.22.17", "lines": ["Alarmed by what she said, he raised a cry,", "And shouted harshly at her in reply:"]}, {"id": "C2.22.18", "lines": ["“Be off!” he cried. “I do not know Khosrow,", "Nor that brave chief, nor how his fortunes go."]}, {"id": "C2.22.19", "lines": ["Of Giv and of Gudarz I know no word;", "My brain is emptied by the talk I heard.”"]}, {"id": "C2.22.20", "lines": ["Manijeh looked at Rostam, and she wept;", "Across her breast the blood-red tear-streams swept."]}, {"id": "C2.22.21", "lines": ["She said: “O chieftain, full of wisdom’s light,", "Such heartless words do not become your might."]}, {"id": "C2.22.22", "lines": ["Drive me not off, although you will not speak;", "I am heart-stricken, helpless, worn, and weak."]}, {"id": "C2.22.23", "lines": ["Is this Iran’s way? Must the poor and low", "Be left without the news they ask to know?”"]}, {"id": "C2.22.24", "lines": ["He answered: “Woman, what has caused this dread?", "Has Ahriman brought Judgment on your head?"]}, {"id": "C2.22.25", "lines": ["You hindered all my trading in the mart;", "That was the cause that made my anger start."]}, {"id": "C2.22.26", "lines": ["I chided you; let not the sting remain:", "My thoughts were wholly fixed on trade and gain."]}, {"id": "C2.22.27", "lines": ["Nor do I live where Khosrow holds his throne;", "The city of the king is not my own."]}, {"id": "C2.22.28", "lines": ["Of Giv and of Gudarz no news I have learned;", "Toward their land my feet have never turned.”"]}, {"id": "C2.22.29", "lines": ["He ordered all the food they had to share", "Be set before that woman in despair."]}, {"id": "C2.22.30", "lines": ["Then questioned her at length about her fate:", "“What made your fortune turn to such a state?"]}, {"id": "C2.22.31", "lines": ["Why ask of Iran’s chiefs, its king’s abode?", "Why keep your watch upon the Iranian road?”"]}, {"id": "C2.22.32", "lines": ["She said: “Why ask about my pain and need,", "My toil, my trouble, how my heart must bleed?"]}, {"id": "C2.22.33", "lines": ["From that dark pit-mouth I have hurried here,", "My heart in pain, O generous man, to hear"]}, {"id": "C2.22.34", "lines": ["Of Giv and of Gudarz, that noble line;", "To ask you for their news was my design."]}, {"id": "C2.22.35", "lines": ["You shouted like a warrior in the fray;", "Do you not fear the Judge whom all obey?"]}, {"id": "C2.22.36", "lines": ["I am Manijeh, Afrasiab’s child, whose face", "No sun had seen unveiled in any place."]}, {"id": "C2.22.37", "lines": ["But now, with bloody eyes, my heart is sore;", "Pale-cheeked, I make my way from door to door."]}, {"id": "C2.22.38", "lines": ["Daily on the streets I beg for barley bread;", "God has decreed this fate upon my head."]}, {"id": "C2.22.39", "lines": ["Could time inflict a grief more hard to bear?", "May God have mercy now and hear my prayer."]}, {"id": "C2.22.40", "lines": ["Poor Bijan, in that pit, sees neither light", "Of sun or moon, nor knows the day from night."]}, {"id": "C2.22.41", "lines": ["In collar, rivets, heavy bonds he lies,", "And begs for death from God amid his cries."]}, {"id": "C2.22.42", "lines": ["Thus grief is doubled, and my tears increase;", "My wounded heart knows neither rest nor peace."]}, {"id": "C2.22.43", "lines": ["If you should journey toward Iran, then hear", "Of Gudarz, son of Keshvad, far or near."]}, {"id": "C2.22.44", "lines": ["Or should Giv or brave Rostam come in sight,", "Before King Khosrow, tell them of his plight."]}, {"id": "C2.22.45", "lines": ["Then say: ‘Bijan lies captive in a pit;", "Come quickly, or his life will end in it."]}, {"id": "C2.22.46", "lines": ["If you would see him, do not linger now;", "Iron lies below him, stone above his brow.’”"]}, {"id": "C2.22.47", "lines": ["The tears of tenderness ran down his face;", "Then Rostam spoke to her with gentle grace:"]}, {"id": "C2.22.48", "lines": ["“Fair one, why not seek nobles who might plead", "Before your father for you in your need?"]}, {"id": "C2.22.49", "lines": ["Perhaps his love will stir, his liver burn,", "And pity for his child at last return."]}, {"id": "C2.22.50", "lines": ["Were not your father’s anger in the way,", "I would give more than measure could convey.”"]}, {"id": "C2.22.51", "lines": ["He told the cooks to bring the food she sought,", "And every dish at hand was quickly brought."]}, {"id": "C2.22.52", "lines": ["He had a roasted bird brought hot and spread", "About that bird a wrap of tender bread."]}, {"id": "C2.22.53", "lines": ["His hand moved like a pari’s, swift and light;", "Inside the bird he hid his ring from sight."]}, {"id": "C2.22.54", "lines": ["He gave it her: “Take this to him below;", "You guide the helpless in their time of woe.”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.1", "lines": ["Manijeh hurried to the pit and pressed", "The dishes that she carried to her breast."]}, {"id": "C2.23.2", "lines": ["As she received it, wrapped and tightly bound,", "She passed the food to Bijan underground."]}, {"id": "C2.23.3", "lines": ["Bijan looked up in wonder from the ground;", "His call rose from the pit, a startled sound."]}, {"id": "C2.23.4", "lines": ["He called: “O sun-faced maiden, tell me true,", "Where did you find this food, so fine and new?"]}, {"id": "C2.23.5", "lines": ["What toil and hardship for my sake you bear,", "Forever roaming, bowed by grief and care!”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.6", "lines": ["Manijeh said: “Among the caravan", "There is a merchant, a widely known man."]}, {"id": "C2.23.7", "lines": ["From Iran into Turan, seeking gain,", "He bore a heavy load of grief and pain."]}, {"id": "C2.23.8", "lines": ["A worthy man, discerning and refined,", "With jewels of each precious sort combined."]}, {"id": "C2.23.9", "lines": ["He has a spacious place to sell his store,", "A lodging set before the palace door."]}, {"id": "C2.23.10", "lines": ["He gave this food to me just as you see,", "And said: ‘Before the Maker pray for me."]}, {"id": "C2.23.11", "lines": ["Go to the dungeon, to the man in chains,", "Take all else that he needs to ease his pains.’”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.12", "lines": ["Bijan unfolded all the wholesome bread,", "With hope at times, at times with fear and dread."]}, {"id": "C2.23.13", "lines": ["He reached to eat and found the hidden ring", "Amid the food that she had come to bring."]}, {"id": "C2.23.14", "lines": ["He read the name and marveled at the sight;", "He laughed aloud in wonder and delight."]}, {"id": "C2.23.15", "lines": ["A turquoise seal bore Rostam’s name; each line", "Was cut with iron, like a hair so fine."]}, {"id": "C2.23.16", "lines": ["He saw the fruit of faithfulness appear,", "And knew the key to grief at last was here."]}, {"id": "C2.23.17", "lines": ["He laughed in royal gladness from the pit,", "Until Manijeh heard, amazed by it."]}, {"id": "C2.23.18", "lines": ["She marveled at his laughter from that gloom,", "Where chains and darkness wrapped him like a tomb."]}, {"id": "C2.23.19", "lines": ["She spoke a proverb, puzzled by his glee:", "“A madman laughs at his own acts,” said she."]}, {"id": "C2.23.20", "lines": ["She stood bewildered by the sound below:", "“O fortunate one, why does your laughter flow?"]}, {"id": "C2.23.21", "lines": ["How can your lips spread open with delight,", "When night is day to you, and day is night?"]}, {"id": "C2.23.22", "lines": ["What mystery is this? Reveal it now.", "Does better fortune show a brighter brow?”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.23", "lines": ["Bijan replied: “I hope that fortune’s hand", "Will loose these grievous bonds and let me stand."]}, {"id": "C2.23.24", "lines": ["But swear your loyal heart will not betray", "The secret I am bound to now convey."]}, {"id": "C2.23.25", "lines": ["I will reveal the matter, every part,", "Once you have sworn to keep it in your heart."]}, {"id": "C2.23.26", "lines": ["Though lips be stitched for fear of harm and pain,", "A woman’s tongue will seldom bear the chain.”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.27", "lines": ["Manijeh heard and wept in bitter woe:", "“What further grief can cruel fortune show?"]}, {"id": "C2.23.28", "lines": ["Alas for all my days that now are done;", "My heart is stricken, and my tears still run."]}, {"id": "C2.23.29", "lines": ["I gave Bijan myself, my home, my all;", "Now his distrust is added to my fall."]}, {"id": "C2.23.30", "lines": ["I gave my crown, my treasure, and my gold,", "To plunder, with each gem I used to hold."]}, {"id": "C2.23.31", "lines": ["My father and my kin abandoned me;", "I go unveiled where all the people see."]}, {"id": "C2.23.32", "lines": ["In Bijan I had hoped; that hope takes flight;", "My world grows black, my weeping eyes grow white."]}, {"id": "C2.23.33", "lines": ["He hides his secret from me in this place,", "But You, Creator, know my heart and case.”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.34", "lines": ["Bijan replied: “The truth is on your side;", "For me you lost your fortune and your pride."]}, {"id": "C2.23.35", "lines": ["I should not have said that, beloved friend,", "Prudent companion, faithful to the end."]}, {"id": "C2.23.36", "lines": ["Counsel me in all things; grief and pain", "Have clouded wit and judgment in my brain."]}, {"id": "C2.23.37", "lines": ["That jewel-merchant, he who gave last night", "The roasted bird, has come to end my plight."]}, {"id": "C2.23.38", "lines": ["He came to Turan for my sake alone;", "He had no need of any precious stone."]}, {"id": "C2.23.39", "lines": ["The Maker looked on me with pity’s grace;", "Perhaps I may again see earth’s broad face."]}, {"id": "C2.23.40", "lines": ["That man will free me from this prison’s chain,", "And end your weary wandering and pain."]}, {"id": "C2.23.41", "lines": ["Go near to him and whisper in his ear:", "‘O Kayanian Pahlevan, make clear:"]}, {"id": "C2.23.42", "lines": ["Kind-hearted, swift in finding ways to free,", "If you are lord of Rakhsh, then answer me.’”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.43", "lines": ["Manijeh sped away with urgent speed,", "And bore to Rostam Bijan’s secret need."]}, {"id": "C2.23.44", "lines": ["When Rostam heard the words that she conveyed,", "After the long, hard journey she had made,"]}, {"id": "C2.23.45", "lines": ["He knew Bijan had made the secret known,", "And to that cypress all the story shown."]}, {"id": "C2.23.46", "lines": ["He pitied her and said: “May God above", "Keep strong for Bijan all your faithful love."]}, {"id": "C2.23.47", "lines": ["What toil and hardship you have borne so long,", "Brought low by want, enduring shame and wrong."]}, {"id": "C2.23.48", "lines": ["Tell him: ‘Yes, God, who hears the helpless plea,", "Has granted you the lord of Rakhsh in me."]}, {"id": "C2.23.49", "lines": ["From Zabul through Iran to Turan’s plain,", "I traveled far for you, through toil and pain.’"]}, {"id": "C2.23.50", "lines": ["When you have said this, keep the matter sealed,", "And listen well at night across the field."]}, {"id": "C2.23.51", "lines": ["By day, bring fuel from the woodland ways,", "And when night comes, set all the pile ablaze."]}, {"id": "C2.23.52", "lines": ["Make fire to guide me; it will be my mark", "To find the pit’s mouth in the heavy dark.”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.53", "lines": ["Manijeh heard him, and her heart grew light;", "Her sorrows fled, her joy put grief to flight."]}, {"id": "C2.23.54", "lines": ["She hurried to the pit, where, bound below,", "Her loved companion shared her grief and woe."]}, {"id": "C2.23.55", "lines": ["She told Bijan: “I spoke the words you gave", "To that illustrious lord, renowned and brave."]}, {"id": "C2.23.56", "lines": ["His answer was: ‘The name and signs agree;", "The man whom Bijan sought is truly me."]}, {"id": "C2.23.57", "lines": ["O you who walk with heart so seared by pain,", "And wash your cheeks in blood-red tears like rain,"]}, {"id": "C2.23.58", "lines": ["Say this: “Like leopards, worn in waist and hand,", "We tracked you through the hardship of this land."]}, {"id": "C2.23.59", "lines": ["Now we have certain tidings where you lie;", "Soon you shall see our man-slaying blade on high."]}, {"id": "C2.23.60", "lines": ["I will rend the earth; that resting stone shall fly", "Up to the Pleiades within the sky.”’"]}, {"id": "C2.23.61", "lines": ["He said: ‘When all the air is dark with night,", "And night escapes the sun’s firm grasp of light,"]}, {"id": "C2.23.62", "lines": ["Set fire like a mountain, till its ray", "Makes plain and pit-mouth shine as bright as day,"]}, {"id": "C2.23.63", "lines": ["So I may see the pit-mouth by its glow,", "And through the dark find out the road to go.’”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.64", "lines": ["Bijan rejoiced, though still in prison bound;", "Her message made his heart with joy resound."]}, {"id": "C2.23.65", "lines": ["He turned to God, the merciful and just:", "“O holy Judge, in You I place my trust."]}, {"id": "C2.23.66", "lines": ["In every grief Your aid can make me whole;", "Pierce with Your shaft my foe in heart and soul."]}, {"id": "C2.23.67", "lines": ["Give justice for the wrong beneath Your sight;", "You know my grief, my burning heart, my plight."]}, {"id": "C2.23.68", "lines": ["Perhaps I may regain my home afar,", "And bear no more the shame of this ill star."]}, {"id": "C2.23.69", "lines": ["And you, my toil-worn mate, who shared my pain,", "Who gave life, heart, wealth, body for my gain,"]}, {"id": "C2.23.70", "lines": ["You bore the hardship I had brought your way,", "And counted loss as gain from day to day."]}, {"id": "C2.23.71", "lines": ["Your treasure, crown, and jewels; all you gave,", "Left friends, kin, mother, father, me to save."]}, {"id": "C2.23.72", "lines": ["If from this dragon’s grip I break at length,", "While in my body stay my youth and strength,"]}, {"id": "C2.23.73", "lines": ["Like righteous men who worship God, I will stand", "To serve you with my feet and with my hand."]}, {"id": "C2.23.74", "lines": ["Like one whose service to a king is shown,", "I shall devote my strength to you alone."]}, {"id": "C2.23.75", "lines": ["Bear this toil longer; great reward shall rise", "In goods and treasure underneath the skies.”"]}, {"id": "C2.23.76", "lines": ["Manijeh rushed for wood; with eager tread", "She climbed like birds where spreading branches led."]}, {"id": "C2.23.77", "lines": ["She watched the sun, the wood upon her breast:", "When would night raise its head above the crest?"]}, {"id": "C2.23.78", "lines": ["The sun withdrew, its shining face concealed;", "Night spread its skirts across the open field."]}, {"id": "C2.23.79", "lines": ["It was the hour when all the world lay still,", "And what was seen grew hidden, field and hill."]}, {"id": "C2.23.80", "lines": ["When night led armies over hill and height,", "The sun that lit the world withdrew its light."]}, {"id": "C2.23.81", "lines": ["To pierce the pitch-black darkness, keen and bright,", "She lit the blaze that scorched the eyes of night."]}, {"id": "C2.23.82", "lines": ["A brazen tabira in her heart beat clear:", "“Now steel-hoofed Rakhsh is coming; he draws near!”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.1", "lines": ["Rostam clasped his Roman jowshan in place,", "And knotted fast each strap and every lace."]}, {"id": "C2.24.2", "lines": ["To Him who rules the sun and moon he cried,", "And sought in Him a refuge and a guide:"]}, {"id": "C2.24.3", "lines": ["“Let evil eyes be blinded; grant me might", "To rescue Bijan from his bitter plight.”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.4", "lines": ["He gave command; the warriors armed for fight,", "And drew their battle-belts about them tight."]}, {"id": "C2.24.5", "lines": ["They set leopard-skin saddles on each steed,", "Their hands prepared for battle and its need."]}, {"id": "C2.24.6", "lines": ["Then Rostam led them, seeking out the track,", "Toward the fire, his comrades at his back."]}, {"id": "C2.24.7", "lines": ["When Rostam reached the boulder Akvan cast,", "He saw the pit of grief and anguish vast."]}, {"id": "C2.24.8", "lines": ["He told the seven warriors at his side,", "“We have the earth before us yet to ride."]}, {"id": "C2.24.9", "lines": ["Prepare yourselves to undertake this deed;", "Remove this stone with all your strength and speed.”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.10", "lines": ["The chiefs dismounted, ready now to try", "To clear the stone beneath which he must lie."]}, {"id": "C2.24.11", "lines": ["They wore their hands in labor, strained and pressed;", "The chiefs grew weary; still the stone lay at rest."]}, {"id": "C2.24.12", "lines": ["Sweat streamed from those illustrious men in vain;", "The stone stayed at the pit-mouth through their strain."]}, {"id": "C2.24.13", "lines": ["The lion-chief dismounted in his might,", "And tucked his jowshan’s hem in girdle tight."]}, {"id": "C2.24.14", "lines": ["He asked Yazdan to lend His strength and care,", "Then gripped the rock and raised it through the air."]}, {"id": "C2.24.15", "lines": ["He hurled it into Chin’s woods; it struck the ground,", "And all the earth beneath it shook with sound."]}, {"id": "C2.24.16", "lines": ["Then Rostam called, lamenting, down below,", "“How have you fared through all this time of woe?"]}, {"id": "C2.24.17", "lines": ["Your portion once was sweetness, feast, and grace;", "Why take its cup of poison in this place?”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.18", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “How fared you on the road?", "What hardship did you bear beneath its load?"]}, {"id": "C2.24.19", "lines": ["Your voice reached me and made my joy complete;", "The poison of the world grew wholly sweet."]}, {"id": "C2.24.20", "lines": ["Behold the home where I must live alone:", "My earth is iron, and my sky is stone."]}, {"id": "C2.24.21", "lines": ["Through anguish, hardship, suffering, and grief,", "My heart forsook this world, so frail and brief.”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.22", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “God spared your life from death;", "The shining Maker has preserved your breath."]}, {"id": "C2.24.23", "lines": ["Now, wise and noble-hearted one, attend:", "I have one wish to put to you, my friend."]}, {"id": "C2.24.24", "lines": ["Forgive Gorgin, Milad’s son, and break", "The chain of vengeance; pardon for my sake.”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.25", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “Chieftain, how can you know", "What storms of conflict brought my spirit low?"]}, {"id": "C2.24.26", "lines": ["Do you not know what Gorgin did to me?", "How deep the hurt, how base his treachery!"]}, {"id": "C2.24.27", "lines": ["One sight of him; and all my wrath will spread;", "My vengeance will bring Doomsday on his head.”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.28", "lines": ["“If malice rules,” said Rostam, “and you turn", "Against my plea, no mercy shall you earn."]}, {"id": "C2.24.29", "lines": ["I shall leave you below in chains and gloom,", "Then mount Rakhsh, and ride back from this dark tomb.”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.30", "lines": ["When Rostam’s answer reached Bijan in chains,", "A cry rose upward from his bitter pains."]}, {"id": "C2.24.31", "lines": ["“Of warriors, kindred, all the gathered band,", "I am the most ill-fated in the land."]}, {"id": "C2.24.32", "lines": ["For all the wrong that Gorgin brought my way,", "I must endure this further bitter day."]}, {"id": "C2.24.33", "lines": ["Yet I will bear it; I will end my claim,", "And turn my heart from vengeance and from blame.”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.34", "lines": ["Then Rostam lowered his kamand out of sight,", "And drew him up, his feet still fettered tight."]}, {"id": "C2.24.35", "lines": ["His head was bare, his hair and nails were long,", "His frame made weak by hunger, pain, and wrong."]}, {"id": "C2.24.36", "lines": ["His face was wan, his bloodied body worn,", "By rusted chains and iron shackles torn."]}, {"id": "C2.24.37", "lines": ["When Rostam saw him cloaked in iron weight,", "He cried aloud against that bitter fate."]}, {"id": "C2.24.38", "lines": ["He stretched his hands and broke each iron link,", "And loosed the ankle-ring there at the brink."]}, {"id": "C2.24.39", "lines": ["Together they returned where Rostam stayed,", "With one on either side, the youth and maid."]}, {"id": "C2.24.40", "lines": ["The youthful pair, still marked by grief and blight,", "Recounted to the chief their grievous plight."]}, {"id": "C2.24.41", "lines": ["Rostam had them wash Bijan’s head and hair,", "And dress him in a new robe, fresh and fair."]}, {"id": "C2.24.42", "lines": ["Then Gorgin came, his face bowed to the ground,", "And rubbed it in the dust, by sorrow bound."]}, {"id": "C2.24.43", "lines": ["He begged forgiveness for his treacherous game,", "And writhed at his own foolish words in shame."]}, {"id": "C2.24.44", "lines": ["Bijan released his hatred, and he cast", "Aside all vengeance for the guilty past."]}, {"id": "C2.24.45", "lines": ["They loaded camels, saddled every steed,", "While Rostam donned his arms with eager speed."]}, {"id": "C2.24.46", "lines": ["With swords and heavy gorzes drawn for fight,", "The mounted chiefs stood ready in their might."]}, {"id": "C2.24.47", "lines": ["They sent the baggage on ahead, and then", "They set all things for battle once again."]}, {"id": "C2.24.48", "lines": ["Ashkash, the watchful scout, went with the train,", "The army’s ears through every new terrain."]}, {"id": "C2.24.49", "lines": ["Then Rostam told Bijan, “Take now the road", "With Ashkash and Manijeh and the load."]}, {"id": "C2.24.50", "lines": ["For vengeance on Afrasiab I go;", "Tonight, no food, no rest, no sleep shall I know."]}, {"id": "C2.24.51", "lines": ["I will strike his gate; tomorrow all his men", "Will laugh at him for what I have done by then."]}, {"id": "C2.24.52", "lines": ["I will blacken his bright day; before our king", "At feast, his severed head is what I will bring."]}, {"id": "C2.24.53", "lines": ["With my sharp sword, I shall bring you two", "From Turan, ending all you suffer through."]}, {"id": "C2.24.54", "lines": ["The pit and fetters brought you pain and blight;", "You must not stay upon this field to fight.”"]}, {"id": "C2.24.55", "lines": ["When Bijan heard the words that Rostam said,", "To join the troops with her and ride ahead,"]}, {"id": "C2.24.56", "lines": ["“I am the one to lead,” he answered then;", "“Through me the feud has been renewed again."]}, {"id": "C2.24.57", "lines": ["You know, Tahamtan, Bijan is my name:", "I strike off champions’ heads in battle’s flame.”"]}, {"id": "C2.25.1", "lines": ["The baggage went with Ashkash, watchful guide;", "Then seven warriors rode at Rostam’s side."]}, {"id": "C2.25.2", "lines": ["While all slept soundly in the royal hall,", "Rostam approached the gate and outer wall."]}, {"id": "C2.25.3", "lines": ["They cast their reins before them, all prepared,", "And drew their swords, the blades of vengeance bared."]}, {"id": "C2.25.4", "lines": ["With both his hands he broke the bolted door,", "And like a lion hurled himself to war."]}, {"id": "C2.25.5", "lines": ["From every quarter cries and tumult spread,", "Steel flashed, and arrows stormed above each head."]}, {"id": "C2.25.6", "lines": ["Many chieftains’ heads were severed in the fray;", "Blood filled their mouths; in dust their hands now lay."]}, {"id": "C2.25.7", "lines": ["Then Rostam from the passage hailed the lair:", "“Sleep sweetly; may your head stay full of air!"]}, {"id": "C2.25.8", "lines": ["You slept enthroned, while Bijan lay below;", "Did walls of iron keep away your foe?"]}, {"id": "C2.25.9", "lines": ["I am Rostam of Zabul, Zal’s own son;", "This is no hour for sleep till work is done."]}, {"id": "C2.25.10", "lines": ["I broke the fastenings of your prison gate;", "Its guardian was the stone of mighty weight."]}, {"id": "C2.25.11", "lines": ["Bijan is free, his head and feet unbound;", "Who harms his son-in-law on any ground?"]}, {"id": "C2.25.12", "lines": ["Enough of war for Siavash! You know", "Enough of me, you rash and witless foe!"]}, {"id": "C2.25.13", "lines": ["Yet still you sought to take young Bijan’s life;", "Your foolish heart slept through the gathering strife.”"]}, {"id": "C2.25.14", "lines": ["Then Bijan raised his voice in wrath to cry,", "“O base-born Turk, whose wits have gone awry!"]}, {"id": "C2.25.15", "lines": ["Remember how in chains I faced your pride,", "While crown and glory glittered at your side."]}, {"id": "C2.25.16", "lines": ["Like a fierce leopard, I sought battle then;", "You bound my hands like stone before your men."]}, {"id": "C2.25.17", "lines": ["Now see me free upon the plain tonight,", "A man no savage lion dares to fight.”"]}, {"id": "C2.25.18", "lines": ["When Afrasiab heard the words they said,", "His ancient sorrows stirred again in dread."]}, {"id": "C2.25.19", "lines": ["He raised a cry within his palace then:", "“Has sleep laid hold of all my fighting men?"]}, {"id": "C2.25.20", "lines": ["All who desire a signet or a crown,", "Close every road and strike these raiders down.”"]}, {"id": "C2.25.21", "lines": ["On every side arose a rush of feet;", "Blood ran in rivers through the palace street."]}, {"id": "C2.25.22", "lines": ["Whoever came against them in the fray", "Was slain; the world had lost him from that day."]}, {"id": "C2.25.23", "lines": ["Iran’s bold warriors all surged in their wrath,", "But Afrasiab fled by another path."]}, {"id": "C2.25.24", "lines": ["The lord of Rakhsh went in and shared the store", "Of carpets and furnishings from the floor."]}, {"id": "C2.25.25", "lines": ["They took his lovely servants, hand in hand,", "And noble steeds from Afrasiab’s land,"]}, {"id": "C2.25.26", "lines": ["With khadang saddles clad in leopard hide,", "And jeweled fittings gleaming at each side."]}, {"id": "C2.25.27", "lines": ["They packed the palace spoils and took the road,", "Nor lingered long in Turan with their load."]}, {"id": "C2.25.28", "lines": ["They spurred their horses hard to reach the train,", "Before fresh trouble overtook their gain."]}, {"id": "C2.25.29", "lines": ["So spent was Rostam from the road he had sped,", "His helmet weighed with pain upon his head."]}, {"id": "C2.25.30", "lines": ["The horses and the riders all were drained;", "No spark of strength in anyone remained."]}, {"id": "C2.25.31", "lines": ["He sent the army word: “Prepare to fight;", "Draw from their sheaths the swords of vengeance bright."]}, {"id": "C2.25.32", "lines": ["I have no doubt that Afrasiab will ride;", "His troops will cross the water to this side.”"]}, {"id": "C2.25.33", "lines": ["The warriors rode, prepared to meet the foe,", "And readied all their strength to strike the blow."]}, {"id": "C2.25.34", "lines": ["The lookout watched the road from distant height", "For Turan’s riders coming into sight."]}, {"id": "C2.25.35", "lines": ["The spearmen polished every point till bright,", "And gathered up their reins to face the fight."]}, {"id": "C2.25.36", "lines": ["Manijeh sat within a tent, and near", "A servant stood, her wishes there to hear."]}, {"id": "C2.25.37", "lines": ["Then Rostam spoke a proverb to the maid:", "“Though wine is spilled, its fragrance does not fade."]}, {"id": "C2.25.38", "lines": ["Such is this fleeting world’s accustomed round:", "Now joy, now pain and grief by turns abound.”"]}, {"id": "C2.26.1", "lines": ["At morning, sunlight crowned the eastern height,", "The Turkish horsemen armed themselves for fight."]}, {"id": "C2.26.2", "lines": ["The king’s attendants came before his gate,", "And gathered at the doorway there to wait."]}, {"id": "C2.26.3", "lines": ["They took their places, standing rank on rank,", "And filled the entrance, stretching flank to flank."]}, {"id": "C2.26.4", "lines": ["The city woke, with clamor so profound", "It seemed the whole world seethed with tumult’s sound."]}, {"id": "C2.26.5", "lines": ["Before Afrasiab’s gate the nobles came,", "Ungirt, with heads in dust, consumed with shame."]}, {"id": "C2.26.6", "lines": ["They cried: “This passes all our thoughts today;", "What should be done, and who can find the way?"]}, {"id": "C2.26.7", "lines": ["Bijan’s deeds have left a lasting stain;", "This shame upon the Shah will long remain."]}, {"id": "C2.26.8", "lines": ["In Iran, none will call us men of might,", "But women with our battle-belts drawn tight.”"]}, {"id": "C2.26.9", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab, like a leopard, raged;", "He bade them arm; now battle must be waged."]}, {"id": "C2.26.10", "lines": ["He bade Piran to make the koust resound,", "For he had met defeat and scorn profound."]}, {"id": "C2.26.11", "lines": ["The brazen ney blared at the royal gate,", "The troops surged through the town in warlike state."]}, {"id": "C2.26.12", "lines": ["The warriors formed their ranks before the hall;", "The karnay’s wailing cry rose over all."]}, {"id": "C2.26.13", "lines": ["From Turan marched the troops with ocean’s roar,", "Till earth seemed sea, and solid ground no more."]}, {"id": "C2.26.14", "lines": ["An Iranian watchman from the height", "Saw earth like seething seas spread out in sight."]}, {"id": "C2.26.15", "lines": ["He told proud Rostam, “Arm your waiting band;", "The world is black with dust across the land.”"]}, {"id": "C2.26.16", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered, “We have no cause for fear;", "We will raise battle’s dust when they are here.”"]}, {"id": "C2.26.17", "lines": ["He sent Manijeh onward with the train,", "Then donned his battle dress to face the plain."]}, {"id": "C2.26.18", "lines": ["He climbed the height and viewed the troops below,", "And roared like some fierce lion at the foe."]}, {"id": "C2.26.19", "lines": ["That gallant horseman spoke this proverb then:", "“What is a fox to lion-claws, my men?”"]}, {"id": "C2.26.20", "lines": ["Then to his valiant warriors he cried,", "“Now battle comes; let prowess be our guide."]}, {"id": "C2.26.21", "lines": ["Where are the swords and iron-piercing darts?", "Now bring them forth to prove your fighting arts."]}, {"id": "C2.26.22", "lines": ["Where are the ox-head clubs, the spears we bear?", "Bring spear and gorz; for battle now prepare."]}, {"id": "C2.26.23", "lines": ["Now show your prowess; let your strength be tried,", "And rush to battle, warriors, side by side.”"]}, {"id": "C2.26.24", "lines": ["At once the karnay raised a piercing blast;", "Then Rostam mounted Rakhsh and rode out fast."]}, {"id": "C2.26.25", "lines": ["He led his warriors downward from the height,", "As through the pass the troops came into sight."]}, {"id": "C2.26.26", "lines": ["The armies filled the broad and open ground,", "And built an iron enclosure all around."]}, {"id": "C2.26.27", "lines": ["Then Rostam chose the field and placed his force;", "The world grew black with dust from every horse."]}, {"id": "C2.26.28", "lines": ["Ashkash and Gostaham secured the right,", "With many horsemen marshaled for the fight."]}, {"id": "C2.26.29", "lines": ["Rohham and Zangeh held the left wing, steeled;", "Their troops drawn up and ready for the field."]}, {"id": "C2.26.30", "lines": ["Rostam, the warriors’ shield and army’s stay,", "Held firm the center for the coming fray."]}, {"id": "C2.26.31", "lines": ["Beside him stood Bijan, brave Giv’s own son;", "Together they upheld the troops as one."]}, {"id": "C2.26.32", "lines": ["Behind the army rose Bistoon’s great height;", "Before it stood a wall of swords for fight."]}, {"id": "C2.26.33", "lines": ["When Afrasiab beheld that vast array,", "And Rostam set to lead the coming fray,"]}, {"id": "C2.26.34", "lines": ["He donned his battle-khaftan, dismayed in mind,", "And bade his troops halt where they stood aligned."]}, {"id": "C2.26.35", "lines": ["He formed opposing ranks; earth passed from view,", "And all the air turned deep indigo blue."]}, {"id": "C2.26.36", "lines": ["The left wing he entrusted to Piran;", "Brave Houman took the right against Iran."]}, {"id": "C2.26.37", "lines": ["The center Shideh and Garsivaz would guide,", "While Afrasiab looked out on every side."]}, {"id": "C2.26.38", "lines": ["Then matchless Rostam moved about the field,", "A sable mountain, jowshan-clad, with shield."]}, {"id": "C2.26.39", "lines": ["He cried, “Ill-fated Turk, whose deeds bring shame", "To country, crown, and throne, and all their fame!"]}, {"id": "C2.26.40", "lines": ["You have no heart for battle, feel no stain", "Of shame before the chiefs who serve your reign."]}, {"id": "C2.26.41", "lines": ["Why bring so many men to make a stand,", "And spread your horses over all the land?"]}, {"id": "C2.26.42", "lines": ["When armies close, I know what I shall see:", "Your back turned from the clash, away from me."]}, {"id": "C2.26.43", "lines": ["Have you not heard the ancient words of Zal,", "The saying he recalled and told to all?"]}, {"id": "C2.26.44", "lines": ["No lion fears wild asses, weak or strong,", "Though they should fill a plain, a countless throng."]}, {"id": "C2.26.45", "lines": ["A star may shine yet never can its light", "Match what the radiant sun brings into sight."]}, {"id": "C2.26.46", "lines": ["A mighty wild ram’s heart and ears will tear", "If word of wolf-claws reaches through the air."]}, {"id": "C2.26.47", "lines": ["No trial makes the fox grow brave; no band", "Of gurs will dare to face the lion’s hand."]}, {"id": "C2.26.48", "lines": ["May no such witless king possess the crown;", "His folly brings the whole dominion down."]}, {"id": "C2.26.49", "lines": ["Upon this field, upon this open plain,", "You will not flee my grasp; you shall be slain.”"]}, {"id": "C2.27.1", "lines": ["When that grim Turk heard all that Rostam said,", "He shook and drew one sharp breath, filled with dread."]}, {"id": "C2.27.2", "lines": ["“O warriors of Turan, answer this:", "Is battle here, or banquet, feast, and bliss?"]}, {"id": "C2.27.3", "lines": ["You must endure hard toil upon this plain;", "I will grant you crowns and treasure for your pain.”"]}, {"id": "C2.27.4", "lines": ["At their commander’s words a roar arose;", "The warriors answered, ready for their foes."]}, {"id": "C2.27.5", "lines": ["Dust dimmed the sun and darkened all the land;", "The world seemed drowned, no earth on which to stand."]}, {"id": "C2.27.6", "lines": ["They bound bronze khom on elephants arrayed;", "The karnays and the gavdam loudly brayed."]}, {"id": "C2.27.7", "lines": ["The warriors in breastplates formed a wall,", "An iron rampart rising over all."]}, {"id": "C2.27.8", "lines": ["The plain shook hard; the hills returned the cries", "Raised by the horsemen under darkened skies."]}, {"id": "C2.27.9", "lines": ["The cutting swords flashed through the dust-filled air,", "Like sunlight through a cloud, their blades shone fair."]}, {"id": "C2.27.10", "lines": ["Gorz blows on jowshans fell as thick as hail,", "On helms and casques beneath the iron gale."]}, {"id": "C2.27.11", "lines": ["From Rostam’s dragon-flag, a violet stain", "Spread on the sun above the battle plain."]}, {"id": "C2.27.12", "lines": ["The elephants raised dust that veiled the sky;", "The sun seemed stained with indigo on high."]}, {"id": "C2.27.13", "lines": ["Wherever Rostam spurred, on either flank,", "He drove Rakhsh through the warriors, rank on rank."]}, {"id": "C2.27.14", "lines": ["The chieftains’ heads he smashed in his way,", "And parted head from body in the fray."]}, {"id": "C2.27.15", "lines": ["His ox-head gorz in hand, he crossed the plain", "Like some wild dromedary freed from rein."]}, {"id": "C2.27.16", "lines": ["Into the center, wolf-like, he pressed on;", "He scattered all the foe, their order gone;"]}, {"id": "C2.27.17", "lines": ["Swift Ashkash on the right drove through the fray,", "And sought revenge on Garsivaz that day."]}, {"id": "C2.27.18", "lines": ["Gorgin and Farhad, Rohham at their side,", "Broke through the monarch’s left wing far and wide."]}, {"id": "C2.27.19", "lines": ["At center, valiant Bijan took the field,", "And longed for all the strife that war could yield."]}, {"id": "C2.27.20", "lines": ["The horsemen’s heads fell thick as leaves in storm;", "Turan’s proud lines dissolved and lost their form."]}, {"id": "C2.27.21", "lines": ["Blood flowed in streams; the Turkish standard sank;", "The field ran red through every broken rank."]}, {"id": "C2.27.22", "lines": ["The king saw all his warriors crushed and slain,", "And knew his luck had turned upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C2.27.23", "lines": ["He cast his Indian sword upon the ground,", "And mounted a fresh horse that he had found."]}, {"id": "C2.27.24", "lines": ["He and his chosen chiefs to Turan fled;", "His hope of vengeance on Iran lay dead."]}, {"id": "C2.27.25", "lines": ["Brave Rostam followed closely in their flight,", "Pursuing Afrasiab with all his might."]}, {"id": "C2.27.26", "lines": ["He showered blows on those within his sight,", "And struck with gorz and arrows left and right."]}, {"id": "C2.27.27", "lines": ["For two full farsangs, like a dragon’s wrath,", "His breath, it seemed, burned worlds along his path."]}, {"id": "C2.27.28", "lines": ["A thousand horsemen all were seized and bound,", "Turanian captives from the battleground."]}, {"id": "C2.27.29", "lines": ["Then Rostam left the field and sought his men,", "To share the spoils within his camp again."]}, {"id": "C2.27.30", "lines": ["He shared the spoils, then loaded all the gain", "On elephants to bear it from the plain."]}, {"id": "C2.27.31", "lines": ["Victorious, he turned from where they fought", "Toward Kay Khosrow, with the spoils he brought."]}, {"id": "C2.28.1", "lines": ["Swift tidings reached the Shah: “The Lion has won;", "He leaves the forest, all his labor done."]}, {"id": "C2.28.2", "lines": ["Bijan is free from prison, chain, and foe,", "Released from dragon-clutches, grief, and woe."]}, {"id": "C2.28.3", "lines": ["Turan’s whole army lies in ruin, crushed;", "By Rostam’s hand its strength is broken, hushed.”"]}, {"id": "C2.28.4", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced at all the news he heard,", "And praised the Maker for that welcome word."]}, {"id": "C2.28.5", "lines": ["Before the World-Creator, bowed, he prayed,", "And long upon the earth his face he laid."]}, {"id": "C2.28.6", "lines": ["When Gudarz and Giv received the glad report,", "They hurried, stirred by gladness, to the court."]}, {"id": "C2.28.7", "lines": ["A shout rose high; the troops began to form,", "The drummers took the road in sounding storm."]}, {"id": "C2.28.8", "lines": ["The gavdam sounded loudly at the gate,", "The soldiers shouted in the royal state."]}, {"id": "C2.28.9", "lines": ["The riding-ground grew black with chargers’ feet,", "While bronze khom roared like thunder through the street."]}, {"id": "C2.28.10", "lines": ["The horsemen rode in proud, advancing throng,", "Their cries and clamor rolling loud and long."]}, {"id": "C2.28.11", "lines": ["Great elephants moved onward, fierce and grand,", "And dug their mighty tusks into the land."]}, {"id": "C2.28.12", "lines": ["Before the troops, on elephants, koust rang;", "Their thunder rose as all the drumheads sang."]}, {"id": "C2.28.13", "lines": ["Behind the chief Tus came the standard bright,", "Unfurled above the ranks within their sight."]}, {"id": "C2.28.14", "lines": ["On one side, leopards and lions strained in chains;", "The other side the horsemen of the plains."]}, {"id": "C2.28.15", "lines": ["Thus the victorious monarch gave command", "That troops should greet the champion of the land."]}, {"id": "C2.28.16", "lines": ["They went in rank on rank along the way,", "Till earth seemed mountainous with armed array."]}, {"id": "C2.28.17", "lines": ["When Rostam stood revealed before their sight,", "Gudarz and Giv dismounted with delight."]}, {"id": "C2.28.18", "lines": ["The other mighty chiefs dismounted too,", "And bowed with reverence, loyal, firm, and true."]}, {"id": "C2.28.19", "lines": ["Gudarz and Giv saluted him and cried,", "“O valiant chief, our honor and our pride,"]}, {"id": "C2.28.20", "lines": ["May God protect you now and evermore;", "May sun and moon grant all that you long for."]}, {"id": "C2.28.21", "lines": ["From you the lion learned the boldest way;", "May heaven never tire of you, we pray."]}, {"id": "C2.28.22", "lines": ["You made our house the servants of your name,", "For through your hand our lost son homeward came."]}, {"id": "C2.28.23", "lines": ["You freed us from our suffering and pain;", "In Iran, bound to serve you, we remain.”"]}, {"id": "C2.28.24", "lines": ["The chiefs remounted in a bright parade,", "And toward the royal palace rode arrayed."]}, {"id": "C2.28.25", "lines": ["When that chief, refuge of the warrior band,", "Drew near the city of the kingly land,"]}, {"id": "C2.28.26", "lines": ["The Shah himself, the army’s guardian light,", "And crown of chiefs, rode forth within their sight."]}, {"id": "C2.28.27", "lines": ["When Rostam saw the king’s flag drawing near,", "And watched the monarch on the road appear,"]}, {"id": "C2.28.28", "lines": ["He left his horse and bowed before the king,", "Distressed by all the toil long roads can bring."]}, {"id": "C2.28.29", "lines": ["The Shah embraced him closely at his breast,", "And said, “In you strength and skill’s spirit rest."]}, {"id": "C2.28.30", "lines": ["Your deeds shine like the sunlight over earth;", "All lands have learned your glory and your worth.”"]}, {"id": "C2.28.31", "lines": ["Then Rostam took young Bijan by the hand;", "The Shah and Giv stood wondering in the band."]}, {"id": "C2.28.32", "lines": ["He handed Bijan over, then stood straight;", "A grief-bent back was freed of sorrow’s weight."]}, {"id": "C2.28.33", "lines": ["Then to the Shah he gave in captive bands", "A thousand horsemen seized from Turan’s lands."]}, {"id": "C2.28.34", "lines": ["The monarch blessed him lovingly and said,", "“May heaven’s favor gather round your head."]}, {"id": "C2.28.35", "lines": ["You are a mighty chief, in prowess great,", "A shield against the evils that await."]}, {"id": "C2.28.36", "lines": ["May your head flourish and your heart know cheer;", "Without you, neither earth nor time is dear."]}, {"id": "C2.28.37", "lines": ["How blessed is Zal, who, when his days are past,", "Will leave you as a memory to last."]}, {"id": "C2.28.38", "lines": ["Blessed is Zabul, where the lions are bred,", "Where valiant warriors have been raised and fed."]}, {"id": "C2.28.39", "lines": ["Blessed is Iran, blessed its warriors too,", "Who hold a Pahlevan as great as you."]}, {"id": "C2.28.40", "lines": ["Yet higher still my fortune and renown,", "To have so great a servant of my crown.”"]}, {"id": "C2.28.41", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said to Giv, “Within your breast,", "Your bond with God is good, your heart is blessed."]}, {"id": "C2.28.42", "lines": ["For through the hand of Rostam, God above", "Has given back the noble son you love.”"]}, {"id": "C2.28.43", "lines": ["Giv blessed the Shah: “May joy attend your reign,", "And last as long as time and earth remain."]}, {"id": "C2.28.44", "lines": ["May Rostam’s head stay green through all his days,", "And Zal’s glad heart rejoice in him always.”"]}, {"id": "C2.29.1", "lines": ["Khosrow commanded: “Let the board be spread;", "Call chiefs and nobles to the feast,” he said."]}, {"id": "C2.29.2", "lines": ["When guests had risen from the royal board,", "They set the wine-hall ready for their lord."]}, {"id": "C2.29.3", "lines": ["Fair serving girls and cupbearers shone bright,", "While harpists’ earrings glittered in the light."]}, {"id": "C2.29.4", "lines": ["Their heads were crowned with gold and gems that gleamed,", "With patterned diadems where jewels beamed."]}, {"id": "C2.29.5", "lines": ["Their cheeks glowed ruddy as Roman brocade,", "While fairy fingers on the harp-strings played."]}, {"id": "C2.29.6", "lines": ["Gold trays of purest musk were set in rows;", "A basin brimmed with water of the rose."]}, {"id": "C2.29.7", "lines": ["The Shah shone with imperial glory’s light,", "Like full moon on a cypress, straight and bright."]}, {"id": "C2.29.8", "lines": ["The Pahlevans who served Khosrow withdrew,", "Drunk from the monarch’s hall, that loyal crew."]}, {"id": "C2.29.9", "lines": ["At dawn, brave Rostam came before the throne,", "Heart glad, belt tight, to make his wishes known."]}, {"id": "C2.29.10", "lines": ["He sought permission for the homeward way,", "In sober counsel with the Shah that day."]}, {"id": "C2.29.11", "lines": ["The Shah now ordered one suit, finely sewn,", "With tunic, cap, and gems of precious stone."]}, {"id": "C2.29.12", "lines": ["A cup of gems, a hundred steeds to ride,", "A hundred burden-camels stood beside."]}, {"id": "C2.29.13", "lines": ["A hundred beauties, belted, came in sight;", "A hundred servants wore gold crowns of light."]}, {"id": "C2.29.14", "lines": ["They brought them all before the monarch’s throne,", "And stood them there, that all the gifts be shown."]}, {"id": "C2.29.15", "lines": ["The Shah gave all to Rostam, who bowed down,", "Then kissed the earth and rose before the crown."]}, {"id": "C2.29.16", "lines": ["He set the Kayanian cap upon his head,", "And round his waist the royal girdle spread."]}, {"id": "C2.29.17", "lines": ["He blessed the Shah and took the homeward way,", "Prepared to reach Sistan without delay."]}, {"id": "C2.29.18", "lines": ["To nobles who had shared his toil and fight,", "His sorrow and his hours of delight,"]}, {"id": "C2.29.19", "lines": ["The Shah gave gifts to each in due degree;", "They left Khosrow’s great palace glad and free."]}, {"id": "C2.29.20", "lines": ["With all the matters of the chiefs addressed,", "The Shah sat on his throne and took his rest."]}, {"id": "C2.29.21", "lines": ["He summoned Bijan; then the youth drew near,", "And told his pain and trouble to his ear."]}, {"id": "C2.29.22", "lines": ["Of bonds and prison, and of battle too,", "He told the Shah the trials he had struggled through."]}, {"id": "C2.29.23", "lines": ["Bijan described those evil days of plight,", "And told the whole tale in the monarch’s sight."]}, {"id": "C2.29.24", "lines": ["The Shah forgave him, pitied too the maid,", "Whose luckless heart had suffered, torn and frayed."]}, {"id": "C2.29.25", "lines": ["He called for Roman robes of brocade bright,", "A hundred, worked with gems and golden light."]}, {"id": "C2.29.26", "lines": ["A crown, ten purses of dinars of gold,", "With servants, steeds, and riches manifold,"]}, {"id": "C2.29.27", "lines": ["He gave, and said, “Bijan, these riches bear", "To her whose mourning soul endured despair."]}, {"id": "C2.29.28", "lines": ["Speak gently; let no coldness touch your tone;", "Recall the grief through you that she has known."]}, {"id": "C2.29.29", "lines": ["Go through this world rejoicing by her side,", "And mark how fortune turns with every tide."]}, {"id": "C2.29.30", "lines": ["It lifts one man to heaven’s shining height,", "And frees him from the pain of fortune’s spite."]}, {"id": "C2.29.31", "lines": ["Then fortune flings him downward to the dust,", "Where dread and care consume his former trust."]}, {"id": "C2.29.32", "lines": ["The man whom fortune cherished at her breast", "She casts in need’s deep pit, bereft of rest."]}, {"id": "C2.29.33", "lines": ["Then from the pit she lifts a man instead,", "Enthrones him, sets a gemmed crown on his head."]}, {"id": "C2.29.34", "lines": ["The world feels no shame for such acts as these;", "It honors no one, granting none true ease."]}, {"id": "C2.29.35", "lines": ["It rules the good and wicked in its thrall,", "Yet shows regard for no one, none at all."]}, {"id": "C2.29.36", "lines": ["Such is the custom of this transient place:", "It leads to pain and care the human race."]}, {"id": "C2.29.37", "lines": ["Let riches bring no torment to your breast;", "The noble heart is better left at rest.”"]}, {"id": "C2.29.38", "lines": ["I have told this story fully, as I heard", "The ancients tell it, faithful to their word."]}, {"id": "C2.29.39", "lines": ["The tale of Bijan now is at an end;", "To Gudarz and Piran I now attend."]}]}, {"id": "C3", "title": "The Battle of the Twelve Rukhs", "summary": "49 sections · 2,581 couplets", "path": "/poem/c3/", "couplets": [{"id": "C3.1.1", "lines": ["The world goes by in sorrow, day by day;", "Both good and evil pass in time away."]}, {"id": "C3.1.2", "lines": ["If on the road of greed you choose to tread,", "The passing world brings deeper toil and dread."]}, {"id": "C3.1.3", "lines": ["Let knowledge lead you; keep truth at your side;", "No loss will come to you from either guide."]}, {"id": "C3.1.4", "lines": ["One view holds greatness worthy to be sought,", "Though in a dragon’s breath it must be bought."]}, {"id": "C3.1.5", "lines": ["Who serves his greed and seeks revenge will hear", "No voice of praise from others, far or near."]}, {"id": "C3.1.6", "lines": ["Yet since this passing world will not abide,", "What matters if our lodging is cramped or wide?"]}, {"id": "C3.1.7", "lines": ["When in the grove the cypress bends its height,", "Its shining lamp grows dim and loses light."]}, {"id": "C3.1.8", "lines": ["When its leaves are withered and roots unsound,", "Its head begins to droop toward the ground."]}, {"id": "C3.1.9", "lines": ["It sprang from dust, to dust again must go,", "And all around lie terror, care, and woe."]}, {"id": "C3.1.10", "lines": ["With prudence, wisdom, and restraint in place,", "A man may meet the world with tranquil grace."]}, {"id": "C3.1.11", "lines": ["Though you live long, the body’s pain and ache", "Will make you long at last your leave to take."]}, {"id": "C3.1.12", "lines": ["Life is a sea that stretches far and wide;", "Its bottom lies unseen beneath the tide."]}, {"id": "C3.1.13", "lines": ["Its secrets fill a treasury locked from sight;", "You do not know the key to bring them light."]}, {"id": "C3.1.14", "lines": ["However much you gain, you crave still more;", "The world you feed on bites you to the core."]}, {"id": "C3.1.15", "lines": ["Three things you need, and none can be denied;", "For these no blame falls on you from outside."]}, {"id": "C3.1.16", "lines": ["You need your food, your clothing, and your bed;", "With these, let thoughts of further wants be shed."]}, {"id": "C3.1.17", "lines": ["Beyond these three lie toil and greed’s employ;", "If you are wise, take pride in only joy."]}, {"id": "C3.1.18", "lines": ["You know this world will never stay with you;", "Why let greed wound your bright soul through and through?"]}, {"id": "C3.1.19", "lines": ["Enjoy what you possess; seek nothing more,", "For greed wears down the honor that you bore."]}, {"id": "C3.2.1", "lines": ["The Turkish monarch’s heart, as I have heard,", "By greed was always vexed and inward stirred."]}, {"id": "C3.2.2", "lines": ["When he had left the field where Rostam’s might", "Had made the world a darkness to his sight,"]}, {"id": "C3.2.3", "lines": ["He hurried on till Khallokh lay ahead;", "He hid his head from kings in shame and fled."]}, {"id": "C3.2.4", "lines": ["He reached the palace, anguish in his breast,", "And summoned seasoned chiefs at his behest:"]}, {"id": "C3.2.5", "lines": ["Piran, Garsivaz, Qarakhan drew near;", "And Shideh with the rest came forth to hear."]}, {"id": "C3.2.6", "lines": ["He spoke at length of all that had occurred,", "Recalling every deed and every word."]}, {"id": "C3.2.7", "lines": ["He said, “Since first I wore the sovereign crown,", "And sun and moon poured royal splendor down,"]}, {"id": "C3.2.8", "lines": ["I held my rule, and rival I had none;", "No hand had turned my rein beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "C3.2.9", "lines": ["Since Manuchehr’s great war in former years,", "Iran has never crossed Turan with spears."]}, {"id": "C3.2.10", "lines": ["Now men from Iran raid my doors by night,", "Their hands stretch toward my life in deadly spite."]}, {"id": "C3.2.11", "lines": ["Now cowards venture where they dared not tread;", "The stag invades the mighty lion’s bed."]}, {"id": "C3.2.12", "lines": ["We must prepare for vengeance, strike this blow,", "Or from our ravaged land much smoke will flow."]}, {"id": "C3.2.13", "lines": ["Better to send our messengers abroad,", "And rouse each province under crown and rod."]}, {"id": "C3.2.14", "lines": ["From Turkish lands and Chin we must call out", "A thousand thousand warriors, brave and stout."]}, {"id": "C3.2.15", "lines": ["We will gather armies round Iran and stand,", "And set a field of battle on each hand.”"]}, {"id": "C3.2.16", "lines": ["The sages weighed his words and brought their own", "Wise counsel into concord with the throne."]}, {"id": "C3.2.17", "lines": ["“We must cross over Jihun with our train,", "And sound the royal koust across the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.2.18", "lines": ["At Amuy we must camp, and fight, and send", "Our raids without respite, without an end."]}, {"id": "C3.2.19", "lines": ["There we shall fight, and there much blood shall flow;", "Against brave Giv and Rostam we shall go."]}, {"id": "C3.2.20", "lines": ["Those proud, renowned warriors who cities take", "Have poisoned arrowheads for battle’s sake.”"]}, {"id": "C3.2.21", "lines": ["The monarch’s face and fortune brightened then;", "His joy returned at hearing all these men."]}, {"id": "C3.2.22", "lines": ["He blessed the warriors and the sages who", "Had counseled him, with courtesy their due."]}, {"id": "C3.2.23", "lines": ["He called a scribe and dictated his word,", "The fitting message that must now be heard."]}, {"id": "C3.2.24", "lines": ["He chose his envoys, told them his intent;", "To Faghfoor and Khutan’s crowned lord they went."]}, {"id": "C3.2.25", "lines": ["He wrote to chiefs and nobles everywhere,", "And bade each realm for coming war prepare."]}, {"id": "C3.2.26", "lines": ["He called for troops and set his heart on war,", "For Rostam’s deeds had left his spirit sore."]}, {"id": "C3.2.27", "lines": ["Two weeks passed; troops from Chin, Khutan, and all", "The Turkish lands assembled at his call."]}, {"id": "C3.2.28", "lines": ["The earth swelled like a boiling sea below;", "The plain was hidden by the troops’ great flow."]}, {"id": "C3.2.29", "lines": ["The king gathered horse-herds from all around,", "And drove them through the city’s open ground."]}, {"id": "C3.2.30", "lines": ["The treasures kept since Tur, concealed from sight,", "From father down to son, were brought to light."]}, {"id": "C3.2.31", "lines": ["He opened purse on purse to pay his horde,", "And in a scattered stream his dinars poured."]}, {"id": "C3.2.32", "lines": ["When every warrior had been well supplied,", "The troops stood armed; all wants were satisfied."]}, {"id": "C3.2.33", "lines": ["He chose fifty thousand, all battle-tried,", "To meet the toil of battle, side by side."]}, {"id": "C3.2.34", "lines": ["His warrior son, Shideh, stood in sight,", "A chief distinguished for his skill in fight."]}, {"id": "C3.2.35", "lines": ["“I give to you this well-appointed band;", "March to Khwarazm and guard that borderland."]}, {"id": "C3.2.36", "lines": ["Keep watch along the borders, sleepless, steeled;", "Remain prepared for battle in the field.”"]}, {"id": "C3.2.37", "lines": ["He bade Piran choose fifty thousand men", "From Chin, to take the field of war again."]}, {"id": "C3.2.38", "lines": ["He said, “March into Iran; overthrow", "The new Shah’s throne and lay his splendor low."]}, {"id": "C3.2.39", "lines": ["Seek no accord with him, no path of peace;", "Speak only war and vengeance without cease."]}, {"id": "C3.2.40", "lines": ["Who brings together water and the flame", "Does wrong to both; on him must rest the blame.”"]}, {"id": "C3.2.41", "lines": ["Two noble chiefs, their warrior hearts still strong,", "One old and wise, one young, went with the throng."]}, {"id": "C3.2.42", "lines": ["With Afrasiab’s counsel, forth they passed;", "The elder went at ease, the younger fast."]}, {"id": "C3.2.43", "lines": ["With golden koust, with gorz and sword, the crowd", "Roared like the thunder of a storming cloud."]}, {"id": "C3.3.1", "lines": ["Then tidings reached the conquering Shah’s ear:", "“A Turkish force in arms is drawing near."]}, {"id": "C3.3.2", "lines": ["Afrasiab, that tyrant steeped in spite,", "Can find no rest by day or sleep by night."]}, {"id": "C3.3.3", "lines": ["He seeks to lift his head and hide disgrace,", "And gathers troops from every distant place."]}, {"id": "C3.3.4", "lines": ["He grinds sharp poison for his lance’s head,", "And aims his rein where Iran’s borders spread."]}, {"id": "C3.3.5", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand warlike horsemen must", "Cross the Jihun with lifted spears and dust."]}, {"id": "C3.3.6", "lines": ["In battle-time their dust will climb the sky;", "From Jihun’s banks it surges up on high."]}, {"id": "C3.3.7", "lines": ["The warriors at Afrasiab’s palace keep", "Awake; the tabira’s din denies them sleep."]}, {"id": "C3.3.8", "lines": ["With shaypur blasts and daray ringing loud,", "Fear seized each heart throughout the gathered crowd."]}, {"id": "C3.3.9", "lines": ["If that great army comes to us to fight,", "No lion, though strong, will withstand its might."]}, {"id": "C3.3.10", "lines": ["He gave Piran the frontier of Turan,", "With no small army for that Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C3.3.11", "lines": ["And fifty thousand, armed for battle, massed,", "Have marched toward Khwarazm, their numbers vast."]}, {"id": "C3.3.12", "lines": ["Their chief is Shideh of the lion-heart,", "Whose scimitar could tear fire’s core apart."]}, {"id": "C3.3.13", "lines": ["His troops are like mad elephants in strife,", "That level mountains as they charge for life.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.14", "lines": ["The monarch heard and sat absorbed in thought,", "Weighing the news his watchful agents brought."]}, {"id": "C3.3.15", "lines": ["Then said, “Wise men, I heard Mobadan say", "These words, which bear upon our news today:"]}, {"id": "C3.3.16", "lines": ["‘The Turkish moon may climb the heavens bright,", "But from Iran’s sun it will suffer blight."]}, {"id": "C3.3.17", "lines": ["Strike the black snake that rises from its bed,", "And lifts toward the cudgel its poison head."]}, {"id": "C3.3.18", "lines": ["The king who plants injustice as a tree", "Will see his throne and kingship turn and flee.’”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.19", "lines": ["He summoned the learned Mobadan near,", "And laid before them what had reached his ear."]}, {"id": "C3.3.20", "lines": ["The chiefs and warlike sages came to share", "The king’s close council and his weight of care."]}, {"id": "C3.3.21", "lines": ["There Zal and Rostam came in royal pride,", "Gudarz and Giv took counsel at their side."]}, {"id": "C3.3.22", "lines": ["Shidush and Rohham, Farhad, brave and wise,", "Sat with the chiefs to hear the king’s replies."]}, {"id": "C3.3.23", "lines": ["Bijan and Gostaham, Gorgin all came", "With Zangeh, Gazhdaham, to share the aim."]}, {"id": "C3.3.24", "lines": ["Great Tus, son of Nohzar, came with his train,", "And Fariborz, of Kavus’s royal vein."]}, {"id": "C3.3.25", "lines": ["All other nobles of the court stood by,", "The monarch’s flock, assembled under his eye."]}, {"id": "C3.3.26", "lines": ["He told the Pahlevans: “The Turks now dare", "To seek the crown and throne; for these they prepare."]}, {"id": "C3.3.27", "lines": ["The foe has massed his troops, his claws are bared;", "We too must go to battle well prepared.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.28", "lines": ["He gave command; before his palace-gate", "Horns, gavdam, brazen khom proclaimed his state."]}, {"id": "C3.3.29", "lines": ["He left the palace for the open ground;", "His throne upon an elephant was bound."]}, {"id": "C3.3.30", "lines": ["Upon that elephant, the Shah struck loud", "The sounding bowl before the gathered crowd."]}, {"id": "C3.3.31", "lines": ["The earth seemed coated with an indigo stain,", "Dark blue across the gathering ranks and plain."]}, {"id": "C3.3.32", "lines": ["The air turned blue; earth shone in colors bright,", "The warriors moved like leopards in their might."]}, {"id": "C3.3.33", "lines": ["With gorzes gripped, their wrathful ranks took form;", "The land surged like a sea beneath a storm."]}, {"id": "C3.3.34", "lines": ["A proclamation from the court was cried:", "“O Pahlevans of Iran, far and wide,"]}, {"id": "C3.3.35", "lines": ["No man who knows the stirrup and the rein", "May sit at home for comfort or for gain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.36", "lines": ["The Shah called chosen horsemen to his side,", "From Rum and Hind, with chiefs of proven pride."]}, {"id": "C3.3.37", "lines": ["And Arab champions, ready for the fight,", "Like raging lions, armed in all their might."]}, {"id": "C3.3.38", "lines": ["“Three hundred thousand, girded, I command,", "From the spear-bearing horsemen’s desert land."]}, {"id": "C3.3.39", "lines": ["Who fails in forty days to join my train", "Shall wear no crown hereafter in my reign.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.40", "lines": ["They sent out riders with the royal writ", "Through every side where loyal horsemen sit."]}, {"id": "C3.3.41", "lines": ["Two weeks went by; throughout the realm at large", "Troops moved in answer to the royal charge."]}, {"id": "C3.3.42", "lines": ["The country seethed with armies in their might;", "The world rang out with tumult at the sight."]}, {"id": "C3.3.43", "lines": ["At cockcrow, koust rang out on every side,", "Their thunder sounded through the country wide."]}, {"id": "C3.3.44", "lines": ["The chiefs of every province led their train", "Toward the royal gate across the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.3.45", "lines": ["He opened ancient treasures, rich and old,", "And paid the army silver coins and gold."]}, {"id": "C3.3.46", "lines": ["From all the Shah’s great wealth, the troops were paid,", "And golden crowns upon their heads were laid."]}, {"id": "C3.3.47", "lines": ["With bargostvan and jowshan all arrayed,", "An iron-bodied mountain stood displayed."]}, {"id": "C3.3.48", "lines": ["When all the army’s needs had been supplied,", "The Shah set every care for them aside."]}, {"id": "C3.3.49", "lines": ["From that great army, he chose a mounted band,", "Thirty thousand, each with a sword in hand."]}, {"id": "C3.3.50", "lines": ["To Rostam he entrusted all that might,", "And turned to speak before the men of fight."]}, {"id": "C3.3.51", "lines": ["He said, “Famed hero, lead this force away", "To Sistan and to Hind without delay."]}, {"id": "C3.3.52", "lines": ["From Ghaznin take the upper road, and gain", "The crown and throne and signet of that reign."]}, {"id": "C3.3.53", "lines": ["Give Faramarz the crown and signet there,", "With troops he chooses left within his care."]}, {"id": "C3.3.54", "lines": ["When you have won the realm and fashioned peace,", "So leopard and lamb may drink while conflicts cease,"]}, {"id": "C3.3.55", "lines": ["Then sound the brazen koust with all your might;", "Let shaypur sound and ney ring clear and bright."]}, {"id": "C3.3.56", "lines": ["In Kashmir and in Kabul, do not stay;", "No longer linger; take the homeward way."]}, {"id": "C3.3.57", "lines": ["This war with Afrasiab gives no release;", "I find no food, no sleep, no rest or peace.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.58", "lines": ["Lohrasp received Alanons, Garcha’s land,", "And set that charge within the hero’s hand."]}, {"id": "C3.3.59", "lines": ["To Lohrasp, warrior born of royal race,", "He turned and spoke before him, face to face:"]}, {"id": "C3.3.60", "lines": ["He said, “Choose seasoned riders from the lines,", "A mountain-force beneath its battle signs."]}, {"id": "C3.3.61", "lines": ["Lead hardened horsemen out to meet the foe,", "And bring the enemy to grief and woe.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.62", "lines": ["He bade Ashkash lead thirty thousand horse,", "Armed with the spear, a lion-hearted force."]}, {"id": "C3.3.63", "lines": ["His wolf-like troops to Khwarazm took their way,", "And bore the mighty koust in their array."]}, {"id": "C3.3.64", "lines": ["He bade him camp before Khwarazm’s walls,", "And fight Shideh, who ruled within its halls."]}, {"id": "C3.3.65", "lines": ["The fourth great army he gave Gudarz to lead,", "With much advice for every coming need."]}, {"id": "C3.3.66", "lines": ["“Go with the great men of Iran in pride,", "With Zangeh, Gorgin, Gostaham beside."]}, {"id": "C3.3.67", "lines": ["Take Fariborz, Kavus’s son, with you,", "And Farhad, Giv, Guraza, bold Shapur too.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.68", "lines": ["He bade them arm themselves for battle’s fray,", "And hasten to Turan without delay."]}, {"id": "C3.3.69", "lines": ["Gudarz, the son of Keshvad, seasoned, shrewd,", "Stood with the chiefs in stern and martial mood."]}, {"id": "C3.3.70", "lines": ["They heard and mounted at the king’s command,", "Gudarz rode at the head of every band."]}, {"id": "C3.3.71", "lines": ["The Shah then said, “You now are bound for fight;", "Girded for war, keep this command in sight:"]}, {"id": "C3.3.72", "lines": ["Take care you do no wrongful deed by might;", "Destroy no thriving home in battle’s spite."]}, {"id": "C3.3.73", "lines": ["Stretch out no hand to evil, earn no blame;", "Remember house and honor, name and shame."]}, {"id": "C3.3.74", "lines": ["Who does not gird himself to fight your train,", "Let him receive from you no harm or pain."]}, {"id": "C3.3.75", "lines": ["For God approves no evil that we do;", "We do not stay here but are passing through."]}, {"id": "C3.3.76", "lines": ["In leading forth the army to Turan,", "Keep cool your heart, O seasoned Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C3.3.77", "lines": ["Do not grow rash like Tus at every slight", "And mount the koust on elephants for fight."]}, {"id": "C3.3.78", "lines": ["Be just in every deed, however small;", "Remember God, whose gifts bring good to all."]}, {"id": "C3.3.79", "lines": ["Send to Piran a veteran, wise and keen,", "Who keeps in mind the things that he has seen."]}, {"id": "C3.3.80", "lines": ["With ample counsel, open wide his ear;", "Let him attend the words that he must hear."]}, {"id": "C3.3.81", "lines": ["Then spread the cloak of kindness over him;", "Let no harsh word that gentle covering dim.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.82", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “Your word stands high and bright,", "Above the sun and moon in all their light."]}, {"id": "C3.3.83", "lines": ["I go exactly as you bid me go;", "You are my Shah, and I your servant low.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.84", "lines": ["Ahead, full sixty elephants now strode;", "Their heavy tread made earth bend to the load."]}, {"id": "C3.3.85", "lines": ["Four mighty elephants, his chosen best,", "The Shah in royal trappings had them dressed."]}, {"id": "C3.3.86", "lines": ["Upon their backs they set a throne of gold,", "A seat of royal glory to behold."]}, {"id": "C3.3.87", "lines": ["He bade Gudarz mount up, and there be seen", "Upon the golden throne, in royal sheen."]}, {"id": "C3.3.88", "lines": ["He stirred the elephants; their dust rose high,", "And read good fortune in that clouded sky."]}, {"id": "C3.3.89", "lines": ["“From Piran’s house we will make the smoke ascend,", "Like dust these elephants behind them send.”"]}, {"id": "C3.3.90", "lines": ["By Khosrow’s order, stage by stage they went;", "No harm was done wherever troops were sent."]}, {"id": "C3.4.1", "lines": ["When old Gudarz drew near to Raibad’s plain,", "He chose his captains from the gathered train."]}, {"id": "C3.4.2", "lines": ["He chose Iran’s tried horsemen, men of worth,", "Wise speakers, skilled in war throughout the earth."]}, {"id": "C3.4.3", "lines": ["A thousand khanjar-bearing warriors came,", "All chosen from the army’s men of fame."]}, {"id": "C3.4.4", "lines": ["The chief then summoned Giv and told his son", "The Shah’s command and what must now be done."]}, {"id": "C3.4.5", "lines": ["He said, “My prudent son, whose lifted head", "Stands over many chiefs in fame and dread,"]}, {"id": "C3.4.6", "lines": ["I have selected worthy troops for you,", "Provincial chiefs, experienced, loyal, true."]}, {"id": "C3.4.7", "lines": ["You now must journey onward to Piran,", "Speak, then hear out that seasoned Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C3.4.8", "lines": ["Say this: ‘I reached Turan with my array,", "The Shah’s commands my purpose on the way."]}, {"id": "C3.4.9", "lines": ["You know the words and deeds that you have shown,", "What toil and peace and trouble you have known,"]}, {"id": "C3.4.10", "lines": ["And how Turan has armed itself to fight", "The Kayanian kings with wrongful might."]}, {"id": "C3.4.11", "lines": ["Great Fereydoon left life in grief and pain;", "His eyes shed yellow tears like bitter rain."]}, {"id": "C3.4.12", "lines": ["Iran was filled with pain, the Shah with grief;", "For Iraj, the moon went dark; none found relief."]}, {"id": "C3.4.13", "lines": ["You, only you among Turan, claim grace,", "And boast of faith with honor on your face."]}, {"id": "C3.4.14", "lines": ["Yet kindness is a hollow word you claim;", "I find no honest peace behind your name."]}, {"id": "C3.4.15", "lines": ["Still our courteous Shah instructed me:", "Speak gently; let no harshness stain your plea."]}, {"id": "C3.4.16", "lines": ["You laid no evil groundwork in the strife", "That brought an end to noble Siavash’s life."]}, {"id": "C3.4.17", "lines": ["The Shah declares your standing shall endure;", "Of his own father’s blood your hands are pure."]}, {"id": "C3.4.18", "lines": ["For all the wrongs committed in the past,", "For kings whom you have injured, first to last,"]}, {"id": "C3.4.19", "lines": ["The Shah will pass them over, every one,", "And count as good the evil you have done."]}, {"id": "C3.4.20", "lines": ["You need not perish here beneath my hand", "For all those former wrongs throughout the land."]}, {"id": "C3.4.21", "lines": ["Yet time against you hastens in its course,", "As war draws near with Afrasiab’s force."]}, {"id": "C3.4.22", "lines": ["The great men of Iran and this my son", "Will tell my counsel fully, one by one."]}, {"id": "C3.4.23", "lines": ["Tell them whatever counsel you may know,", "And ask what further words they would bestow."]}, {"id": "C3.4.24", "lines": ["If heart and tongue speak truly, free from strife,", "You shall escape your cares and save your life."]}, {"id": "C3.4.25", "lines": ["Your land and kin shall prosper, free from dread;", "My sword shall leave your neck and spare your head."]}, {"id": "C3.4.26", "lines": ["But if your guilt should come to light and show,", "Your crown and throne and royal cap must go."]}, {"id": "C3.4.27", "lines": ["I seek no rest or sleep till I shall bring", "My gorz to where Afrasiab is king."]}, {"id": "C3.4.28", "lines": ["Our Shah need muster no great force to gain", "His vengeance upon Afrasiab’s domain."]}, {"id": "C3.4.29", "lines": ["But if you heed my counsel and give ear,", "And trust my prudent words with judgment clear,"]}, {"id": "C3.4.30", "lines": ["First send the men who set revenge alight,", "And rolled their sleeves for bloodshed in the fight,"]}, {"id": "C3.4.31", "lines": ["Who reached their hands for Siavash’s blood,", "And brought the world to ruin in that flood."]}, {"id": "C3.4.32", "lines": ["Bind them like dogs and send them from your band,", "Delivered into my awaiting hand."]}, {"id": "C3.4.33", "lines": ["We shall dispatch them onward to the king,", "To face whatever judgment he may bring."]}, {"id": "C3.4.34", "lines": ["Their lives are his to take upon that day,", "Or he may choose to wipe their guilt away."]}, {"id": "C3.4.35", "lines": ["My Shah, the guardian of the world’s wide frame,", "Has given me the list of every name."]}, {"id": "C3.4.36", "lines": ["Have you not heard the mighty lion’s lore,", "Once spoken to the wolf in days before?"]}, {"id": "C3.4.37", "lines": ["For those who shed the Kayanian line’s blood,", "Fate keeps no bed except the dust and mud."]}, {"id": "C3.4.38", "lines": ["Moreover, all the treasures you possess", "Become your foes and bring you dark distress."]}, {"id": "C3.4.39", "lines": ["So send your noble steeds and jewels bright,", "Brocades, dinars, and crowns of royal light."]}, {"id": "C3.4.40", "lines": ["Send swords and khaftans, Indian khanjars laid", "With bargostvans and helms for battle made."]}, {"id": "C3.4.41", "lines": ["Send all your silver, gold, and battle gear;", "Hold nothing back; send all your riches here."]}, {"id": "C3.4.42", "lines": ["The wealth you took unjustly from the land,", "You wrested from the people by your hand."]}, {"id": "C3.4.43", "lines": ["With these you may buy life and find a road", "To safety from the weight of this great load."]}, {"id": "C3.4.44", "lines": ["Whatever suits the Shah among this store,", "I send to him who rules from shore to shore."]}, {"id": "C3.4.45", "lines": ["The rest I give the army, to repay", "The wrongs you have committed to this day."]}, {"id": "C3.4.46", "lines": ["And send your chosen son, whose charge is known:", "To guard your royal signet and your throne."]}, {"id": "C3.4.47", "lines": ["And send your two proud brothers at his side,", "Both army chiefs who lift their heads in pride."]}, {"id": "C3.4.48", "lines": ["Send all these three as hostages to me,", "Before the gathered chiefs, for all to see."]}, {"id": "C3.4.49", "lines": ["Then I may trust your conduct and be sure;", "The tree of faith shall bear its fruit secure."]}, {"id": "C3.4.50", "lines": ["Consider now and choose between two ways;", "The first: approach the Shah and win his praise."]}, {"id": "C3.4.51", "lines": ["Wash Afrasiab’s love from heart and sight;", "No longer dream of him through darkest night."]}, {"id": "C3.4.52", "lines": ["Go with your kin and kindred to Khosrow;", "Rest where his royal shade and mercies flow."]}, {"id": "C3.4.53", "lines": ["I pledge that Khosrow’s favor will be won,", "And raise your head above the shining sun."]}, {"id": "C3.4.54", "lines": ["You know the kindness rooted in his breast;", "He will receive you as an honored guest."]}, {"id": "C3.4.55", "lines": ["Leave Turan; make your dwelling in Chakh’s town;", "Take up your throne and raise your royal crown."]}, {"id": "C3.4.56", "lines": ["But if through fear of Afrasiab’s hand", "You will not come into Iran’s bright land,"]}, {"id": "C3.4.57", "lines": ["And if your heart remains with Turan’s king,", "Go to him; do not wait for war to spring."]}, {"id": "C3.4.58", "lines": ["If you prepare for war, then know my might:", "A lion’s strength, a leopard’s claws in fight."]}, {"id": "C3.4.59", "lines": ["I leave no share of thrones to Turan’s reign;", "My bow is cloud, and poison is its rain."]}, {"id": "C3.4.60", "lines": ["If war is what you choose, then take your stand;", "You may come onward into Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "C3.4.61", "lines": ["Come forth prepared for battle on the plain,", "If you can face the lion and remain."]}, {"id": "C3.4.62", "lines": ["When both opposing armies stand in sight,", "The guilty shall be known from those in right."]}, {"id": "C3.4.63", "lines": ["If you refuse to hear the words I say,", "Regret shall meet you at the end one day."]}, {"id": "C3.4.64", "lines": ["Regret will bring no profit then; instead,", "The sword of Time will reap your severed head.’”"]}, {"id": "C3.4.65", "lines": ["The Pahlevan thus charged his son to go:", "“Tell old Piran each word and let him know.”"]}, {"id": "C3.5.1", "lines": ["Giv rode to Balkh, his father’s words in mind,", "Those bitter words he would not leave behind."]}, {"id": "C3.5.2", "lines": ["He halted, sent a messenger ahead,", "As old Gudarz, his father, wisely said."]}, {"id": "C3.5.3", "lines": ["That night he rode from Balkh to Visagard,", "With all the troops he summoned, riding hard."]}, {"id": "C3.5.4", "lines": ["There Piran sought Iran’s great crown and throne,", "With warriors ranked and banners of his own."]}, {"id": "C3.5.5", "lines": ["The messenger arrived where Piran stayed;", "He saw the chief and all his troops arrayed."]}, {"id": "C3.5.6", "lines": ["The messenger before old Piran said,", "“Giv has reached Balkh with captains at his head.”"]}, {"id": "C3.5.7", "lines": ["When Piran heard, he raised the koust on high;", "From all his warriors rose a ringing cry."]}, {"id": "C3.5.8", "lines": ["He sounded brazen ney in ringing blast,", "And hoofbeats blackened earth as horsemen passed."]}, {"id": "C3.5.9", "lines": ["A hundred and ten thousand horsemen came,", "Prepared for war and hungry after fame."]}, {"id": "C3.5.10", "lines": ["He left two-thirds behind him, then he called", "His veteran chiefs, whom no alarm appalled."]}, {"id": "C3.5.11", "lines": ["He reached Jihun and ranked his warriors near,", "Along the riverbank, their order clear."]}, {"id": "C3.5.12", "lines": ["He met with Giv; his ranks, ranged front to rear,", "A wall beside the river, spear on spear."]}, {"id": "C3.5.13", "lines": ["Two weeks they spoke to keep the peace in sight,", "And spare their armies from a needless fight."]}, {"id": "C3.5.14", "lines": ["They spoke at length, and Piran heard each side;", "Turan’s own guilt could no more be denied."]}, {"id": "C3.5.15", "lines": ["Iran’s great chiefs now seized their chance to speak,", "And pressed their case against the side found weak."]}, {"id": "C3.5.16", "lines": ["Piran dispatched a rider with his word,", "To Afrasiab, that all might there be heard:"]}, {"id": "C3.5.17", "lines": ["“Gudarz, the son of Keshvad, now has shown", "His crown above the seat of Iran’s throne."]}, {"id": "C3.5.18", "lines": ["His chosen son, the chief of his array,", "Has come to me as envoy here today."]}, {"id": "C3.5.19", "lines": ["Yet I attend to what you bid me do,", "And stake my life on loyalty to you.”"]}, {"id": "C3.5.20", "lines": ["When this report reached Turan’s monarch grim,", "He chose an army that would strengthen him."]}, {"id": "C3.5.21", "lines": ["He sent to Piran thirty thousand strong,", "All swordsmen chosen from his warlike throng."]}, {"id": "C3.5.22", "lines": ["He said, “Draw out your vengeful sword, and drive", "Them from the earth; leave not a man alive."]}, {"id": "C3.5.23", "lines": ["Spare not Gudarz or Giv in battle’s flame,", "Nor Rohham, Farhad, Gorgin; none by name."]}, {"id": "C3.5.24", "lines": ["From four sides horsemen come against our might,", "All seeking Iran’s victory in open fight."]}, {"id": "C3.5.25", "lines": ["I will bring Turanian riders through the land,", "And make Iran run blood beneath their hand."]}, {"id": "C3.5.26", "lines": ["By counsel of the wise and men of power,", "I shall raise dust on Khosrow in that hour.”"]}, {"id": "C3.5.27", "lines": ["When Piran saw that mighty warrior band,", "Like wolves that thirst for blood, before him stand,"]}, {"id": "C3.5.28", "lines": ["With strength renewed, he turned his heart to fight,", "And washed away his honor, choosing spite."]}, {"id": "C3.5.29", "lines": ["His once-kind heart turned cruel beneath war’s call;", "His thoughts now turned to battle, one and all."]}, {"id": "C3.5.30", "lines": ["He said to Giv, “Rise now and take your way,", "Return to old Gudarz and clearly say:"]}, {"id": "C3.5.31", "lines": ["‘Seek not from me what every sage must blame;", "No wise man would approve so harsh a claim."]}, {"id": "C3.5.32", "lines": ["First, you demand our chiefs of noble name;", "How could I yield them up to you in shame?"]}, {"id": "C3.5.33", "lines": ["You ask my weapons, troops, and royal crown,", "My throne and noble steeds to be laid down."]}, {"id": "C3.5.34", "lines": ["My brother, light of soul, you would demand,", "My chosen son, the champion of my band."]}, {"id": "C3.5.35", "lines": ["You tell me: “Send them all from you away.”", "Can any sage have words so crude to say?"]}, {"id": "C3.5.36", "lines": ["Far better death than such a life of shame:", "A slave in service, though a chief in name."]}, {"id": "C3.5.37", "lines": ["A leopard spoke this saying in the fight,", "When facing a fierce lion in his might:"]}, {"id": "C3.5.38", "lines": ["“Far better that in battle I am slain", "Than live to bear dishonor’s lasting stain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.5.39", "lines": ["Besides, my king has set this warlike course,", "And troops have come at his command in force.’”"]}, {"id": "C3.5.40", "lines": ["Giv heard this answer, turned, and rode away,", "With all the famous warriors of his array."]}, {"id": "C3.5.41", "lines": ["When Giv had left him, Piran called to arms,", "And roared for battle, sounding war’s alarms."]}, {"id": "C3.5.42", "lines": ["He came to Kanabad and took his stand,", "Below the mountain, with his gathered band."]}, {"id": "C3.6.1", "lines": ["When Giv returned before his father’s face,", "He gave Piran’s reply with measured grace."]}, {"id": "C3.6.2", "lines": ["He said, “Bring out the army in array,", "To where you mean to hold the coming fray."]}, {"id": "C3.6.3", "lines": ["Piran has no desire for peace at all,", "Nor room for justice when tabiras call."]}, {"id": "C3.6.4", "lines": ["I spoke with him at length of everything,", "And told him all the words you bade me bring."]}, {"id": "C3.6.5", "lines": ["When guilt appeared, he sent his urgent word", "By hiyun, so the Turkish monarch heard:"]}, {"id": "C3.6.6", "lines": ["‘Gudarz and Giv have come to wage this fight;", "Send troops to me at once with all your might.’"]}, {"id": "C3.6.7", "lines": ["From Afrasiab came the armed array;", "They crossed the river as we rode away."]}, {"id": "C3.6.8", "lines": ["Now koust on elephants proclaim his power;", "He takes the lead against us in this hour.”"]}, {"id": "C3.6.9", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “He must be tired of breath,", "And weary of his life to court such death."]}, {"id": "C3.6.10", "lines": ["I looked for this from one who hid his aim;", "Yet from the Shah the binding order came."]}, {"id": "C3.6.11", "lines": ["I had to send you; no choice could remain;", "Now has the Shah discerned his heart made plain."]}, {"id": "C3.6.12", "lines": ["Before the Shah dispatched us on our way,", "I spoke this warning of him on that day:"]}, {"id": "C3.6.13", "lines": ["‘Withdraw your love from one whose tongue and heart", "Do not agree, but stand from truth apart."]}, {"id": "C3.6.14", "lines": ["Piran gives all his love to Turan’s men;", "Let our Shah wash his hands of Piran then.’”"]}, {"id": "C3.6.15", "lines": ["Brave Piran followed swiftly in Giv’s trace,", "Like a fierce lion, driving on the chase."]}, {"id": "C3.6.16", "lines": ["When old Gudarz perceived Piran draw near,", "He sounded koust and readied sword and spear."]}, {"id": "C3.6.17", "lines": ["He marched from Raibad to the open plain,", "And ranked his mountain-force in ordered train."]}, {"id": "C3.6.18", "lines": ["The daylight failed while, from Kanabad’s height,", "Piran moved out and filled the road with might."]}, {"id": "C3.6.19", "lines": ["He brought his mighty army out in force,", "Like raging wolves, the warriors, man and horse."]}, {"id": "C3.6.20", "lines": ["A hundred thousand Turkish horsemen, clad", "In jowshan, gripped the spears that each man had."]}, {"id": "C3.6.21", "lines": ["They bound their belts for battle on the plain,", "With spears and Indian swords throughout the train."]}, {"id": "C3.6.22", "lines": ["The armored lines beneath their iron helms", "Looked like two mountains moving through the realms."]}, {"id": "C3.6.23", "lines": ["Then karnay rose in one resounding cry;", "The mountains seemed to move beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.6.24", "lines": ["From Raibad out to Kanabad they spread;", "The vales grew black and blue where armies tread."]}, {"id": "C3.6.25", "lines": ["Spearheads were stars, and swords the sun that glowed;", "The earth was iron; gorzes, clouds that flowed."]}, {"id": "C3.6.26", "lines": ["The earth rang back the warriors’ shouting cry;", "With helms and spears, their iron filled the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.6.27", "lines": ["Gudarz surveyed Turan’s advancing line,", "That surged like seas beneath each royal sign."]}, {"id": "C3.6.28", "lines": ["Flag followed flag, and troop came after troop,", "Till night rose dark above the mountain group."]}, {"id": "C3.6.29", "lines": ["Before the troops the elephants were led;", "They blocked the road when darkness overspread."]}, {"id": "C3.6.30", "lines": ["On either side they set great fires alight,", "While warriors’ challenges rang through the night."]}, {"id": "C3.6.31", "lines": ["The world seemed Ahriman, a hostile trap;", "An enemy lurked in each sleeve and lap."]}, {"id": "C3.6.32", "lines": ["The tabira struck stone with such a sound", "That hearts were torn while pitch-black night lay round."]}, {"id": "C3.6.33", "lines": ["When dawn rose upward from the somber height,", "Iran’s sepahbod mounted fresh for fight."]}, {"id": "C3.6.34", "lines": ["Before the lines he rode and took his stand,", "Then ordered every wing beneath command."]}, {"id": "C3.6.35", "lines": ["The right wing rested firm upon a hill,", "Undaunted where the bravest blood could spill."]}, {"id": "C3.6.36", "lines": ["The river flowed along the left-hand side;", "The chief came on with swift steeds in their stride."]}, {"id": "C3.6.37", "lines": ["The footmen bore long spears; each quiver’s store", "Held shafts to pierce the jowshans that men wore."]}, {"id": "C3.6.38", "lines": ["With bows upon their arms, they stood in train;", "The soldiers’ blood boiled hot in every vein."]}, {"id": "C3.6.39", "lines": ["Behind them, riders bearing khanjars bright", "Robbed even fire of its living light."]}, {"id": "C3.6.40", "lines": ["Behind the troops the elephants shook ground;", "The earth grew weary with their trampling sound."]}, {"id": "C3.6.41", "lines": ["Full in the center rose the glorious sign,", "The jeweled standard cast a moonlike shine."]}, {"id": "C3.6.42", "lines": ["Beneath Kaveh’s standard, broad and high,", "Blue steel flashed upward toward the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "C3.6.43", "lines": ["As though through darkness heaven blazed and threw", "Its stars in showers scattered through the blue."]}, {"id": "C3.6.44", "lines": ["Like Paradise, the ranks stood fair to see;", "Faith’s garden bore revenge’s cypress tree."]}, {"id": "C3.6.45", "lines": ["He gave to Fariborz the army’s right;", "Behind the troops lay baggage for the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.6.46", "lines": ["Guraza, chief of Givgan’s line, was known;", "Zavareh guarded the Kayanian throne."]}, {"id": "C3.6.47", "lines": ["They took the right, where they had been assigned,", "Beside Fariborz, ready and aligned."]}, {"id": "C3.6.48", "lines": ["Gudarz then called Rohham before his face:", "“O source of wisdom, courage, crown, and grace,"]}, {"id": "C3.6.49", "lines": ["Go with the mounted troops and guard the left,", "Where by the river ranks must not be cleft."]}, {"id": "C3.6.50", "lines": ["Like sun in Aries on New Year’s Day,", "Illuminate the army with your ray."]}, {"id": "C3.6.51", "lines": ["Hold all the army close beneath your care;", "Fight like a lion, blue khanjar laid bare.”"]}, {"id": "C3.6.52", "lines": ["Rohham went out, his chosen band arrayed,", "With Gostaham and Gazhdaham to aid."]}, {"id": "C3.6.53", "lines": ["And Foruhil, whose arrows pierced the sky,", "Went with them where the left wing rose on high."]}, {"id": "C3.6.54", "lines": ["Gudarz then chose ten thousand men to ride,", "Their horses clad in armor, side by side."]}, {"id": "C3.6.55", "lines": ["He placed them under Giv’s commanding hand,", "To guard the rear where fierce young warriors stand."]}, {"id": "C3.6.56", "lines": ["With Giv rode Gorgin, armed and battle-bent,", "And Zangeh, Shavaran’s son, with him went."]}, {"id": "C3.6.57", "lines": ["He sent a banner with three thousand horse", "To guard the river-flank with steady force."]}, {"id": "C3.6.58", "lines": ["Three hundred more were sent with armed command", "To guard the flank that touched the mountain land."]}, {"id": "C3.6.59", "lines": ["A watchman climbed up to the mountain’s crest,", "And kept his vigil, never taking rest."]}, {"id": "C3.6.60", "lines": ["Above the army, head raised high and proud,", "He kept his watch beneath the drifting cloud."]}, {"id": "C3.6.61", "lines": ["He searched the road for traces of the foe,", "If even an ant’s footprint there might show."]}, {"id": "C3.6.62", "lines": ["Then from that height his warning cry would go;", "He had to shout and let Gudarz know."]}, {"id": "C3.6.63", "lines": ["Thus Gudarz set the ranks across the plain,", "Till sun and moon seemed eager for the strain."]}, {"id": "C3.6.64", "lines": ["When one fit for command directs the fight,", "No savage nahang fills the men with fright."]}, {"id": "C3.6.65", "lines": ["Gudarz himself the army’s center held,", "And watched each danger as it rose and swelled."]}, {"id": "C3.6.66", "lines": ["He raised the flag that gladdened every heart,", "And summoned chiefs to take each central part."]}, {"id": "C3.6.67", "lines": ["He called the chiefs around him to the core;", "Behind him stood Shidush, Farhad before."]}, {"id": "C3.6.68", "lines": ["Hajir stood left, with battle in his sight;", "The lion-taker Katmareh held the right."]}, {"id": "C3.6.69", "lines": ["An iron wall enclosed him on the ground;", "Behind him stood the elephants renowned."]}, {"id": "C3.6.70", "lines": ["Above Gudarz, who held the central place,", "The Kaviani standard shaded all that space."]}, {"id": "C3.6.71", "lines": ["It robbed both sun and moon of all their light;", "Piran from far beheld that ordered might."]}, {"id": "C3.6.72", "lines": ["The hills and plains were spears from end to end;", "Rein wove with rein where all the ranks would blend."]}, {"id": "C3.6.73", "lines": ["He turned then to survey his own array,", "But found no room to fight in ordered way."]}, {"id": "C3.6.74", "lines": ["The chieftain of Turan grew sorely grieved,", "And cursed the fortune by which he was deceived."]}, {"id": "C3.6.75", "lines": ["The battlefield displeased his angry eye;", "He struck his hands together with a cry."]}, {"id": "C3.6.76", "lines": ["Forced to arrange his ranks as best he might,", "He formed for battle and prepared to fight."]}, {"id": "C3.6.77", "lines": ["From his own famous chiefs he chose the men", "Who longed to take the lead in battle then."]}, {"id": "C3.6.78", "lines": ["And from the warriors Afrasiab sent,", "He chose those fierce for vengeance, all intent."]}, {"id": "C3.6.79", "lines": ["He chose full thirty thousand warriors, tried,", "All swordsmen fit to fight at brave men’s side."]}, {"id": "C3.6.80", "lines": ["He gave the center to Houman’s command,", "With lion-hearted troops on either hand."]}, {"id": "C3.6.81", "lines": ["Andariman and Awkhast both stood near;", "He set the wings and made their duties clear."]}, {"id": "C3.6.82", "lines": ["He set them on the left in ordered line,", "With thirty thousand men beneath their sign."]}, {"id": "C3.6.83", "lines": ["Brave Lahhak and bold Farshidvard drew right,", "With thirty thousand heroes armed for fight."]}, {"id": "C3.6.84", "lines": ["The earth grew black with iron in their train,", "As troops were ranked across the dusty plain."]}, {"id": "C3.6.85", "lines": ["Zangula, Kulbad, Sipahram drew near,", "All quick to help when battle-cries rang clear."]}, {"id": "C3.6.86", "lines": ["Ten thousand famous warriors marched behind", "The khanjar-bearing horsemen, ranks aligned."]}, {"id": "C3.6.87", "lines": ["Then brazen-bodied Ruyin led his band,", "Ten thousand warriors from Khutan’s land."]}, {"id": "C3.6.88", "lines": ["Within the woodland, like a lion, he", "Lay with his men concealed by bush and tree."]}, {"id": "C3.6.89", "lines": ["They sent out scouts by riverbank and hill,", "To thwart Iran’s sepahbod and his will."]}, {"id": "C3.6.90", "lines": ["If he advanced too far upon the plain,", "Or moved too boldly with his battle-train,"]}, {"id": "C3.6.91", "lines": ["Then Ruyin, like a lion in attack,", "Would bring his warriors down upon his back."]}, {"id": "C3.6.92", "lines": ["A lookout on the mountain kept the day,", "And counted stars when daylight passed away."]}, {"id": "C3.6.93", "lines": ["If from afar a rider of Iran bore", "Down on Turan’s sepahbod, bent on war,"]}, {"id": "C3.6.94", "lines": ["The watchman’s warning cry would rise and spread,", "And all the field would seethe where warriors tread."]}, {"id": "C3.7.1", "lines": ["For three long days and nights the armies stayed,", "All men of name, for battle armed, arrayed."]}, {"id": "C3.7.2", "lines": ["They stood embattled, face to face and still;", "No lip betrayed the stirrings of a will."]}, {"id": "C3.7.3", "lines": ["Gudarz said, “If I yield my post and go,", "Advancing rashly toward the waiting foe,"]}, {"id": "C3.7.4", "lines": ["They will attack my rear, and I shall gain", "No prize but wind and dust across the plain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.7.5", "lines": ["Both night and day before the lines he stood,", "And searched the heavens for an hour of good."]}, {"id": "C3.7.6", "lines": ["He thought, “What day has fortune on its side?", "Whose movement will the favoring heavens guide?"]}, {"id": "C3.7.7", "lines": ["When will the battle-wind raise dust on high,", "And blind the hostile riders’ watching eye?"]}, {"id": "C3.7.8", "lines": ["Then I may win the upper hand, and thrust", "The army onward like a tempest’s gust.”"]}, {"id": "C3.7.9", "lines": ["Piran, meanwhile, stood waiting on his side,", "Until Gudarz should seethe with wounded pride,"]}, {"id": "C3.7.10", "lines": ["Advance in anger, leave his rear exposed,", "And fall where hidden troops in wait reposed."]}, {"id": "C3.7.11", "lines": ["The fourth day, Bijan left the rear to go", "Toward the center, where his wrath would show."]}, {"id": "C3.7.12", "lines": ["He came before his father, clothes all torn,", "And flung earth toward the heavens in his scorn:"]}, {"id": "C3.7.13", "lines": ["“Why keep us standing idle, veteran sire?", "What purpose does this fruitless wait require?"]}, {"id": "C3.7.14", "lines": ["The fifth day comes, and still no move is made;", "We learn to rest while hours slip by and fade."]}, {"id": "C3.7.15", "lines": ["The sun has seen no scimitars today,", "No dust has risen to obscure its ray."]}, {"id": "C3.7.16", "lines": ["Our riders wear their khaftans, helms drawn tight;", "Yet no man’s blood has stirred to join the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.7.17", "lines": ["Once, after Rostam, none in Iran’s land", "Could match Gudarz or face his fighting hand."]}, {"id": "C3.7.18", "lines": ["But since the battle fought at Pashan’s field,", "And all the slaughter that the swords revealed,"]}, {"id": "C3.7.19", "lines": ["Since at Ladan he saw his sons lie slain,", "And Iran’s fortune overturned in pain,"]}, {"id": "C3.7.20", "lines": ["His heart is wounded; he has lost his way,", "And cannot bear to see the battle’s fray."]}, {"id": "C3.7.21", "lines": ["Consider now his age; he lifts his eyes,", "And turns his head toward the lofty skies."]}, {"id": "C3.7.22", "lines": ["He counts no longer horsemen for the fight,", "But stars around the moon from night to night."]}, {"id": "C3.7.23", "lines": ["Know this: his blood is cold, his strength is gone;", "He cannot meet the brave when war comes on."]}, {"id": "C3.7.24", "lines": ["I do not wonder at that chief of old,", "Whose heart has loosened from the world’s firm hold."]}, {"id": "C3.7.25", "lines": ["My wonder, father, falls instead on you,", "From whom fierce lions seek what they must do."]}, {"id": "C3.7.26", "lines": ["Two armies look to you; awaken wrath,", "And let your judgment choose the proper path."]}, {"id": "C3.7.27", "lines": ["The world is warm, the air serene and clear;", "Yet still the army finds no battle here."]}, {"id": "C3.7.28", "lines": ["When all this pleasant season passes by,", "And earth grows hard as steel beneath the sky,"]}, {"id": "C3.7.29", "lines": ["When hands freeze fast upon the hafted spear,", "With war before us, snow behind our rear,"]}, {"id": "C3.7.30", "lines": ["What warrior then will ride before our force,", "And call for combat on this frozen course?"]}, {"id": "C3.7.31", "lines": ["If he fears ambush, men of war and hate,", "And riders lying hidden there in wait,"]}, {"id": "C3.7.32", "lines": ["Give me a thousand horsemen for the fight;", "Let me select them, tried in warlike might."]}, {"id": "C3.7.33", "lines": ["I will raise dust where hidden riders lie,", "And fling their heads above the moon on high.”"]}, {"id": "C3.7.34", "lines": ["Giv smiled to hear brave Bijan speak this way,", "Then praised his son and turned to God to pray:"]}, {"id": "C3.7.35", "lines": ["“I thank You, Lord, who granted me this son,", "Who knows the good in all that must be done."]}, {"id": "C3.7.36", "lines": ["You gave him wisdom, strength, and glory bright;", "Faith, skill in all things, vengeance in the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.7.37", "lines": ["This brave young man has taken after me,", "As every Pahlevan’s own son should be."]}, {"id": "C3.7.38", "lines": ["The lion told the lioness of old:", "‘If our cub proves a coward, base and cold,"]}, {"id": "C3.7.39", "lines": ["We will sever love and every bond of birth;", "His father is the sea, his mother earth.’"]}, {"id": "C3.7.40", "lines": ["Yet, son, restrain your tongue; let no word fall", "Against your grandfather before them all."]}, {"id": "C3.7.41", "lines": ["He is more wise, experienced, battle-tried,", "And leads this noble force with care and pride."]}, {"id": "C3.7.42", "lines": ["The veteran needs no teacher in the art;", "He reads the field with seasoned eye and heart."]}, {"id": "C3.7.43", "lines": ["If our own horsemen have so much to bear,", "The Turks are also burdened with despair."]}, {"id": "C3.7.44", "lines": ["Their luck has turned; their hearts are torn with pain,", "And bloody tears from every eye now rain."]}, {"id": "C3.7.45", "lines": ["This ancient chief would have the Turks first move,", "And come to battle, there their strength to prove."]}, {"id": "C3.7.46", "lines": ["Once they have left the mountains far behind,", "He will advance with all his troops combined."]}, {"id": "C3.7.47", "lines": ["Then see Gudarz, his gopal in his hand,", "And how it rolls the battle through the land."]}, {"id": "C3.7.48", "lines": ["He watches every constellation’s sign,", "And counts how good and evil stars align."]}, {"id": "C3.7.49", "lines": ["When that auspicious day at last draws near,", "He will sweep the earth of foes and leave it clear.”"]}, {"id": "C3.7.50", "lines": ["Then Bijan to his father made reply:", "“O Pahlevan whose fame has filled the sky,"]}, {"id": "C3.7.51", "lines": ["If that is what our grandfather has planned,", "We need no Roman jowshan on this land."]}, {"id": "C3.7.52", "lines": ["I will strip jowshan, helm, and turn to wine,", "Till withered cheeks grow rosy with its shine."]}, {"id": "C3.7.53", "lines": ["When I am needed, I shall join the fray,", "Belted for war, prepared to fight that day.”"]}, {"id": "C3.8.1", "lines": ["From Turan’s ranks brave Houman came in stride,", "A lion as he reached his brother’s side."]}, {"id": "C3.8.2", "lines": ["He said, “Afrasiab’s Pahlevan, we wait", "Impatient on this plain; the hour grows late."]}, {"id": "C3.8.3", "lines": ["The seventh day has come; each rider here", "Stands belted, armed for battle with his spear."]}, {"id": "C3.8.4", "lines": ["Their waists are chafed by jowshans; hearts demand", "Revenge, their eyes fixed on Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "C3.8.5", "lines": ["Why hold the forces drawn up face to face?", "What is your purpose in this waiting place?"]}, {"id": "C3.8.6", "lines": ["Speak now: if you intend to fight, then fight;", "If you would leave, why linger here in sight?"]}, {"id": "C3.8.7", "lines": ["O Pahlevan, delay will stain your name;", "And all the world will laugh to see your shame."]}, {"id": "C3.8.8", "lines": ["These are the men who fled before our might,", "Disgraced and scattered in their former flight."]}, {"id": "C3.8.9", "lines": ["Their slain filled all the ground; the whole earth bled,", "And blood ran everywhere about the dead."]}, {"id": "C3.8.10", "lines": ["No famed horseman is missing from our band;", "Nor does great Rostam hold their chief command."]}, {"id": "C3.8.11", "lines": ["If you have no desire for blood to flow,", "And will not rouse the troops against the foe,"]}, {"id": "C3.8.12", "lines": ["Choose warriors; place their reins beneath my hand,", "And watch me wage this war across the land.”"]}, {"id": "C3.8.13", "lines": ["Piran replied, “Restrain your haste and ire;", "Do not rush headlong into battle’s fire."]}, {"id": "C3.8.14", "lines": ["Know, brother, that the chief who takes his stand", "Before us here commands this mighty band."]}, {"id": "C3.8.15", "lines": ["He is a chief, a Pahlevan of fame,", "Among Iran’s great nobles first in name."]}, {"id": "C3.8.16", "lines": ["First, Kay Khosrow stands higher in men’s eyes", "Than Afrasiab beneath the turning skies."]}, {"id": "C3.8.17", "lines": ["Next, among Khosrow’s chiefs, both high and low,", "None equals old Gudarz against the foe."]}, {"id": "C3.8.18", "lines": ["In dignity, position, manly grace,", "In prudent counsel, he has foremost place."]}, {"id": "C3.8.19", "lines": ["Third, his heart is scorched by grief and pain,", "And anguish for the sons he saw lie slain."]}, {"id": "C3.8.20", "lines": ["We left them headless, scattered on the ground,", "And drenched the thirsty dust with blood around."]}, {"id": "C3.8.21", "lines": ["As long as breath remains within his breast,", "He writhes, a snake whom vengeance grants no rest."]}, {"id": "C3.8.22", "lines": ["Fourth, he has massed his army in a vale", "Between two peaks that no assault can scale."]}, {"id": "C3.8.23", "lines": ["Search where you will; no road can reach his line;", "This is no time to fight; weigh your design."]}, {"id": "C3.8.24", "lines": ["We must induce the foe to leave that height,", "And quit the ground that guards them in the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.8.25", "lines": ["Perhaps fatigue will make their caution slack,", "And they will move to lead the first attack."]}, {"id": "C3.8.26", "lines": ["Then, when the foe has left that vantage-ground,", "We shall rain arrows thickly all around."]}, {"id": "C3.8.27", "lines": ["We shall surround them like a closing wall,", "Like raging lions, seize them one and all."]}, {"id": "C3.8.28", "lines": ["Then all we wish against them shall be done,", "And our renown shall rise to reach the sun."]}, {"id": "C3.8.29", "lines": ["You lead the king’s troops; you sustain his might;", "Your crown has passed the heavens in its height."]}, {"id": "C3.8.30", "lines": ["Who has no need of further fame to show,", "Why should he follow greed where it may go?"]}, {"id": "C3.8.31", "lines": ["Besides, no famed warrior will come near", "The roaring leopard waiting for him here."]}, {"id": "C3.8.32", "lines": ["Gudarz will choose a man of lesser name,", "More restless for the fight and battle-fame."]}, {"id": "C3.8.33", "lines": ["He will send that rider out to face your might;", "If you should strike him down and win the fight,"]}, {"id": "C3.8.34", "lines": ["No greater fame will gather round your head,", "Nor will Iran be harmed when he lies dead."]}, {"id": "C3.8.35", "lines": ["But if he sheds your blood upon the plain,", "The Turkish side will fall to fear and pain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.8.36", "lines": ["Houman heard all Piran had said that day,", "And thought his argument was thrown away."]}, {"id": "C3.8.37", "lines": ["He answered, “Of Iran, no horseman here", "Can meet me in the battle, spear to spear."]}, {"id": "C3.8.38", "lines": ["Your nature turns to kindness and to peace;", "My own desire is battle without cease."]}, {"id": "C3.8.39", "lines": ["You have no will for vengeance in this fight;", "Within your heart no battle-fires burn bright."]}, {"id": "C3.8.40", "lines": ["I will saddle my gray horse and take my way,", "To seek revenge at dawn’s first rising ray.”"]}, {"id": "C3.9.1", "lines": ["When Houman reached his camp, his heart was sore;", "He ground his teeth like a raging boar."]}, {"id": "C3.9.2", "lines": ["At dawn he mounted, like a lion grim,", "And took an interpreter along with him."]}, {"id": "C3.9.3", "lines": ["He rode toward Iran, battle in his breast,", "His mind by hatred for the Shah possessed."]}, {"id": "C3.9.4", "lines": ["When Piran learned his brother sought the fight,", "The world grew narrow to his troubled sight."]}, {"id": "C3.9.5", "lines": ["His heart burned with concern; in that despair,", "He recalled his father’s words of thoughtful care:"]}, {"id": "C3.9.6", "lines": ["“The wise deliberate in every case,", "And do not rush to battle and disgrace."]}, {"id": "C3.9.7", "lines": ["The fool shows dash and spirit at the start,", "But grief awaits the ending of his part."]}, {"id": "C3.9.8", "lines": ["Though from a fool’s tongue pearls of speech may fall,", "No profit comes when folly masters all.”"]}, {"id": "C3.9.9", "lines": ["“I do not know,” he said, “what Houman gains", "By riding wrathful over hostile plains."]}, {"id": "C3.9.10", "lines": ["May God, the Judge of all, be at his side;", "I see no other helper, friend, or guide.”"]}, {"id": "C3.9.11", "lines": ["Houman sought Gudarz, Keshvad’s son, that day;", "The army’s watchmen met him on his way."]}, {"id": "C3.9.12", "lines": ["Iran’s suspicious riders gathered near", "And asked his spokesman to make all things clear:"]}, {"id": "C3.9.13", "lines": ["“Why does this eager warrior show his face", "So boldly here before our guarded place?"]}, {"id": "C3.9.14", "lines": ["Where does he speed, as messengers might ride,", "With gorz in hand and kamand at his side?”"]}, {"id": "C3.9.15", "lines": ["The interpreter said, “The hour is here", "For sword and heavy gorz; this chief draws near."]}, {"id": "C3.9.16", "lines": ["He seeks a champion in the open fight;", "He is Houman, Viseh’s son, a man of might."]}, {"id": "C3.9.17", "lines": ["He leads the sons of Viseh to the field;", "Before his blade a lion’s heart must yield.”"]}, {"id": "C3.9.18", "lines": ["They saw his gorz, his stature, and the grace", "With which he wore the royal belt in place."]}, {"id": "C3.9.19", "lines": ["His noble bearing held their ranks in awe;", "Their spear-hands paused before the grace they saw."]}, {"id": "C3.9.20", "lines": ["They turned toward the man who spoke for him,", "And sent this answer to the warrior grim:"]}, {"id": "C3.9.21", "lines": ["“Go speak in Turkish; faithfully convey", "Each word to Houman, all that we shall say:"]}, {"id": "C3.9.22", "lines": ["‘We have no leave to meet you in the fight;", "Gudarz has not yet granted us that right."]}, {"id": "C3.9.23", "lines": ["But if you seek the captain of our side,", "The road lies open; onward you may ride.’”"]}, {"id": "C3.9.24", "lines": ["They named each chief who led the troops, and told", "What place within the ranks each one would hold."]}, {"id": "C3.9.25", "lines": ["They told him where the foremost leaders lay,", "Who held the left and right in armed display."]}, {"id": "C3.9.26", "lines": ["The outpost sent a hiyun rider fast", "To old Gudarz with news of what had passed:"]}, {"id": "C3.9.27", "lines": ["“Houman comes like a leopard from his line,", "To challenge you before your battle-sign.”"]}, {"id": "C3.9.28", "lines": ["Houman passed by the outpost in his pride,", "And hastened toward Rohham on Iran’s side."]}, {"id": "C3.9.29", "lines": ["He shouted, “Son of that sepahbod bright", "With wakeful fortune, come before my sight."]}, {"id": "C3.9.30", "lines": ["You hold the left, the Lion’s Claw are you,", "And guard Iran’s sepahbod, firm and true."]}, {"id": "C3.9.31", "lines": ["Give rein and meet me on this battleground;", "Between the ordered lines let strife be found."]}, {"id": "C3.9.32", "lines": ["You ought to fight me; choose the open plain", "Or riverbank, and there draw tight your rein."]}, {"id": "C3.9.33", "lines": ["Or Gostaham and Foruhil, the pair,", "May charge me both together, if they dare."]}, {"id": "C3.9.34", "lines": ["Who fights me now with gorz or sword or spear?", "Let any warrior of your ranks appear."]}, {"id": "C3.9.35", "lines": ["Whoever comes before me on this ground,", "Fate rolls the earth above him like a mound."]}, {"id": "C3.9.36", "lines": ["My sword, when seen in battle, tears apart", "The leopard’s hide and rends the lion’s heart.”"]}, {"id": "C3.9.37", "lines": ["Rohham replied to Houman’s battle-cry:", "“O famed warrior, hear me in reply."]}, {"id": "C3.9.38", "lines": ["I thought you wise; now drink has led astray", "Your mind, to make you venture out this way."]}, {"id": "C3.9.39", "lines": ["You came alone upon this field of fight,", "And boldly faced the army in its might."]}, {"id": "C3.9.40", "lines": ["You think no swordsman and no horseman’s spear", "Can stand against your stroke or meet you here."]}, {"id": "C3.9.41", "lines": ["Recall the saying from Kayanian throne;", "Let wisdom guard the life that is your own:"]}, {"id": "C3.9.42", "lines": ["‘Whoever first advances to attack", "Must look ahead and find his pathway back.’"]}, {"id": "C3.9.43", "lines": ["All those you named have sharpened claws to fight,", "And long to face your challenge in their might."]}, {"id": "C3.9.44", "lines": ["Yet none prepares for battle on this plain", "Without the chief’s command to loose his rein."]}, {"id": "C3.9.45", "lines": ["If fighting with our champions is your aim,", "Go to the Pahlevan and make your claim."]}, {"id": "C3.9.46", "lines": ["Ask old Gudarz for leave to start the fray;", "Then call on us to meet you in the way.”"]}, {"id": "C3.9.47", "lines": ["Then Houman answered, “Talk is of no use,", "Nor offer me, upon this field, excuse."]}, {"id": "C3.9.48", "lines": ["Choose men to fight me in this war’s campaign;", "You are no horseman fit to take the rein.”"]}, {"id": "C3.10.1", "lines": ["From Rohham, Houman crossed the central ground,", "Then toward the other wing his charger wound."]}, {"id": "C3.10.2", "lines": ["With his interpreter, he stormed along,", "A raging elephant, fierce-limbed and strong."]}, {"id": "C3.10.3", "lines": ["He reached brave Fariborz and raised his cry:", "“You wretch, who bow where other chiefs stand high!"]}, {"id": "C3.10.4", "lines": ["Once horsemen, elephants, and shoes of gold", "Were yours, with Kaveh’s standard to uphold."]}, {"id": "C3.10.5", "lines": ["You gave them to the Turks before our men;", "Iran’s chiefs will not call you man again."]}, {"id": "C3.10.6", "lines": ["A chief who falls beneath another’s hand", "Must gird himself to serve at his command."]}, {"id": "C3.10.7", "lines": ["Siavash was your brother; yours by birth", "A rank above your chief in royal worth."]}, {"id": "C3.10.8", "lines": ["From Tur, the king of Turan, springs my race;", "In birth perchance I hold the higher place."]}, {"id": "C3.10.9", "lines": ["Come out with me upon the battlefield,", "And wheel our steeds before each watching shield."]}, {"id": "C3.10.10", "lines": ["You are the man whom vengeance should inflame;", "Arm for revenge, as fits your brother’s name."]}, {"id": "C3.10.11", "lines": ["Your fame will rise in splendor like the sun,", "If you step forth, that glory shall be won."]}, {"id": "C3.10.12", "lines": ["If not, then let Zavareh take your place,", "Or brave Guraza meet me face to face."]}, {"id": "C3.10.13", "lines": ["Bring forth a chief of Iran known by name,", "Whose sword can answer my defiant claim.”"]}, {"id": "C3.10.14", "lines": ["Then Fariborz replied, “Restrain your spite;", "O rending lion, do not seek this fight."]}, {"id": "C3.10.15", "lines": ["One man departs the battlefield with fame;", "Another meets destruction, grief, and shame."]}, {"id": "C3.10.16", "lines": ["When victory comes, still fear the turn of fate;", "The heavens never hold one lasting state."]}, {"id": "C3.10.17", "lines": ["Through stubborn wrath, men let their anger grow,", "And lay their ancient households in ruin low."]}, {"id": "C3.10.18", "lines": ["The Shah could take my standard; his the right", "To grant whom he chose troops and elephants’ might."]}, {"id": "C3.10.19", "lines": ["Since Kay Qobad, each king who wore the crown", "Armed for Kayanian vengeance and renown,"]}, {"id": "C3.10.20", "lines": ["Or made the world prosper beneath his hand,", "Gave Gudarz, Keshvad’s son, the chief command."]}, {"id": "C3.10.21", "lines": ["Avengers for the Kayanians in fight,", "His fathers served the crown with proven might."]}, {"id": "C3.10.22", "lines": ["His mighty gorz will lay your leader low,", "And bring his days to ending with its blow."]}, {"id": "C3.10.23", "lines": ["The army fights when he declares it must;", "Its honor and disgrace he holds in trust."]}, {"id": "C3.10.24", "lines": ["If he commands, I shall encounter you,", "And heal my wounded heart with vengeance due."]}, {"id": "C3.10.25", "lines": ["Then you shall see me raise my head from shame,", "When I step forth to fight and clear my name.”"]}, {"id": "C3.10.26", "lines": ["Houman replied, “Enough! Your words flow free;", "Your skill at speaking is quite plain to me."]}, {"id": "C3.10.27", "lines": ["That sword is at your waist; why stand aside", "When other horsemen into battle ride?"]}, {"id": "C3.10.28", "lines": ["Would you wage war with that gorz, crude of make,", "Too weak for helm or jowshan here to break?”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.1", "lines": ["From Fariborz, Houman turned away,", "Like a malignant Div intent to slay."]}, {"id": "C3.11.2", "lines": ["Still bent on vengeance against Iran’s band,", "He came before Gudarz and made his stand."]}, {"id": "C3.11.3", "lines": ["He shouted, “Binder of the Div, give ear;", "Now hear the charge that Houman brings you here."]}, {"id": "C3.11.4", "lines": ["I heard your counsel in the royal hall,", "And how you led the Shah’s men, one and all."]}, {"id": "C3.11.5", "lines": ["I heard of all his gifts and your command,", "Your terms to Piran, chief of Turan’s land."]}, {"id": "C3.11.6", "lines": ["Your envoy reached the ranks of old Piran;", "Your son, the warrior Giv, a Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C3.11.7", "lines": ["And afterward you swore by royal light,", "By sun and moon, by throne and crown in sight:"]}, {"id": "C3.11.8", "lines": ["‘If ever I behold Piran in strife,", "I shall cut short the measure of his life.’"]}, {"id": "C3.11.9", "lines": ["Fierce as a lion you have ranked your powers,", "And thirsted for the fight through waiting hours."]}, {"id": "C3.11.10", "lines": ["Then why crouch back behind that mountain chain,", "Like timid mountain sheep that fear the plain?"]}, {"id": "C3.11.11", "lines": ["So does the hunted quarry flee in fright,", "Before the lion’s overwhelming might."]}, {"id": "C3.11.12", "lines": ["It seeks a narrow woodland hiding-place,", "And fears for life, forgetting all disgrace."]}, {"id": "C3.11.13", "lines": ["Lead forth your battle-lines into the field;", "Why keep your men behind the heights concealed?"]}, {"id": "C3.11.14", "lines": ["Was this your understanding with Khosrow:", "To make a hill your stronghold from the foe?”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.15", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “Consider what you say:", "Are these fit words to speak to me today?"]}, {"id": "C3.11.16", "lines": ["When you receive your answer from us here,", "The folly of your charge will then be clear."]}, {"id": "C3.11.17", "lines": ["Know that I acted at the Shah’s command;", "My oath and pledge were what his will had planned."]}, {"id": "C3.11.18", "lines": ["But now I stand with Iran’s chosen force,", "With chiefs whose courage guides the army’s course."]}, {"id": "C3.11.19", "lines": ["You hide like some old fox among the trees,", "That quakes whenever it the hunter sees."]}, {"id": "C3.11.20", "lines": ["You practice cunning, artifice, and guile,", "To flee from gorz, spear, kamand all the while."]}, {"id": "C3.11.21", "lines": ["Do not boast here or challenge us in scorn,", "For foxes cannot stand where lions are born.”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.22", "lines": ["When Houman heard what old Gudarz replied,", "He raged like a lion on the other side."]}, {"id": "C3.11.23", "lines": ["He answered, “You refuse to face my might,", "But not because you deem it shame to fight."]}, {"id": "C3.11.24", "lines": ["Since Pashan’s field and that disastrous day,", "You shun the men of Turan in the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.11.25", "lines": ["You praised me once at Ladan on the field,", "And knew the strength my sword and arm could wield."]}, {"id": "C3.11.26", "lines": ["So if the truth is even as you say,", "And you would make your words come true today,"]}, {"id": "C3.11.27", "lines": ["Choose from your troops some champion of name,", "To counter me upon the field of fame."]}, {"id": "C3.11.28", "lines": ["Like a fierce nahang, I called out to fight", "Both Rohham and Fariborz in their might."]}, {"id": "C3.11.29", "lines": ["I passed along before your ranks in pride,", "And not one warrior stirred from either side."]}, {"id": "C3.11.30", "lines": ["They said Gudarz forbade them from the fray;", "Their empty boasts were all they gave today."]}, {"id": "C3.11.31", "lines": ["But you are he who said, ‘My khanjar’s might", "Will raise red tulips on the yellow height.’"]}, {"id": "C3.11.32", "lines": ["Now you yourself, your heavy gorz held high,", "Must meet me here before the army’s eye."]}, {"id": "C3.11.33", "lines": ["You have brave sons renowned throughout the land,", "And each is armed and waiting your command."]}, {"id": "C3.11.34", "lines": ["Set one of them against me if you dare;", "Why this delay if war is what you swear?”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.35", "lines": ["Gudarz considered, “Which among my men", "Should go to face this challenger, and when?"]}, {"id": "C3.11.36", "lines": ["If I send out some famous chief today,", "Some raging lion eager for the fray,"]}, {"id": "C3.11.37", "lines": ["And Houman falls beneath that warrior’s hand,", "No Turkish chief will leave his guarded stand."]}, {"id": "C3.11.38", "lines": ["Piran will writhe with anguish in his heart,", "And hold his gathered army back, apart."]}, {"id": "C3.11.39", "lines": ["His troops will seek Mount Kanabad again;", "Then disadvantage will attend our men."]}, {"id": "C3.11.40", "lines": ["Yet if one noble of my chiefs is slain,", "My fame will suffer and my men feel pain."]}, {"id": "C3.11.41", "lines": ["Despair would break the hearts of all my band,", "And none would have the will to take a stand."]}, {"id": "C3.11.42", "lines": ["Best not engage; best foil the ambush-snare,", "Until their restless troops forsake their lair."]}, {"id": "C3.11.43", "lines": ["At last they may advance to battle’s plain,", "And leave the narrow ground where they remain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.44", "lines": ["Then to Houman he said, “Now take your way;", "Fierce in your words, not tested in the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.11.45", "lines": ["Your speech has shown your nature through and through;", "Your hidden mind lies open now to view."]}, {"id": "C3.11.46", "lines": ["No Turk possesses wisdom in his breast", "To find within his thoughts a place of rest."]}, {"id": "C3.11.47", "lines": ["Do you not know a lion will disdain", "To stain its claws with fox-blood on the plain?"]}, {"id": "C3.11.48", "lines": ["Besides, both armies stand in battle-pride,", "Their swift steeds holding heads high, side by side."]}, {"id": "C3.11.49", "lines": ["Every chief would gnaw his hands in shame,", "If two alone were sent to win the name."]}, {"id": "C3.11.50", "lines": ["Let all advance; let side with side contend,", "And let the field be opened end to end."]}, {"id": "C3.11.51", "lines": ["Go back now to your line and lift your head;", "Before your own sepahbod boast instead:"]}, {"id": "C3.11.52", "lines": ["‘I challenged all the warriors in their line,", "But cold wind was the only answer mine.’"]}, {"id": "C3.11.53", "lines": ["Your boasting here will raise your battle-name,", "And Piran grant the wishes that you claim.”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.54", "lines": ["Houman exclaimed, “What chieftains then are these?", "What warriors, hiding under cautious pleas?"]}, {"id": "C3.11.55", "lines": ["I now recall the saying of a king,", "Who knew the turns that worldly fortunes bring:"]}, {"id": "C3.11.56", "lines": ["‘Seek not the Kayanian throne; but if desire", "Should lead you there, do not turn back from fire.’"]}, {"id": "C3.11.57", "lines": ["You do not wish for war; this truth is sworn:", "The path to pluck a rose is lined with thorn."]}, {"id": "C3.11.58", "lines": ["You have no lion-hearted chief in sight", "To meet me here before the troops in fight."]}, {"id": "C3.11.59", "lines": ["You seek through guile to send me from the fray;", "I know your tricks and will not be their prey.”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.60", "lines": ["The warlike chiefs then told Gudarz their view:", "“Accept his challenge: this we urge on you."]}, {"id": "C3.11.61", "lines": ["Send one of us to face him on the plain,", "To meet his challenge and avenge this stain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.62", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “Today no man shall go", "To fight this battle with the waiting foe.”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.63", "lines": ["Then Houman turned away, his anger high,", "And raged like a brave lion standing by."]}, {"id": "C3.11.64", "lines": ["He laughed, turned from the chief, and spurred his steed", "Toward the army’s guards with reckless speed."]}, {"id": "C3.11.65", "lines": ["Within the meadow, Houman strung his bow,", "And shot four riders from their saddles low."]}, {"id": "C3.11.66", "lines": ["The guards who saw his shots from far away", "Beheld the proud Turanian’s deadly play."]}, {"id": "C3.11.67", "lines": ["They gave him passage, fled across the plain,", "And would not face him or draw tight the rein."]}, {"id": "C3.11.68", "lines": ["He climbed the heights as if with wine possessed,", "And roared as though to level every crest."]}, {"id": "C3.11.69", "lines": ["He whirled his spear above his head to say,", "“Houman, son of Viseh, wins the day!”"]}, {"id": "C3.11.70", "lines": ["The brazen ney resounded from below,", "As on the height his spear swung to and fro."]}, {"id": "C3.11.71", "lines": ["Turan’s bold warriors, joyful at the sight,", "Seemed with their helms to touch the moon’s great height."]}, {"id": "C3.11.72", "lines": ["When Houman came away with such proud scorn,", "Gudarz was wrung by what his men had borne."]}, {"id": "C3.11.73", "lines": ["The chief grew dark with shame at what had passed;", "Wrath and fierce anger held his spirit fast."]}, {"id": "C3.11.74", "lines": ["Shame drew the sweat from warriors standing near;", "Gudarz then read the stars to make things clear."]}, {"id": "C3.11.75", "lines": ["The foe had struck the first blow on the plain;", "That blood foretold disaster in their train."]}, {"id": "C3.11.76", "lines": ["Then he surveyed the champions in his band,", "To see who would face Houman, hand to hand."]}, {"id": "C3.12.1", "lines": ["Bijan was told, “Houman crossed the field,", "And came where old Gudarz stood armed and steeled."]}, {"id": "C3.12.2", "lines": ["He challenged chiefs upon the left and right;", "Not one rode out to meet him in the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.12.3", "lines": ["No champion came; he turned away in ire,", "His heart still burning with the battle’s fire."]}, {"id": "C3.12.4", "lines": ["He struck four riders from their steeds to dust,", "And left them fallen beneath his deadly thrust.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.5", "lines": ["At this report, Bijan with fury stirred;", "His leopard-claws grew sharper at each word."]}, {"id": "C3.12.6", "lines": ["He bade them saddle his great warlike steed,", "Huge as an elephant, well tried in deed."]}, {"id": "C3.12.7", "lines": ["He donned his Roman jowshan, armed to fight,", "And drew the girth around his Shabrang tight."]}, {"id": "C3.12.8", "lines": ["Then, full of plans, before his father’s face,", "He spoke of old Gudarz and his disgrace."]}, {"id": "C3.12.9", "lines": ["“Did I not speak the truth,” he asked, “that day?", "My father, these are words you heard me say:"]}, {"id": "C3.12.10", "lines": ["‘Gudarz’s mind grows feeble, dim, and slow;", "Can you not see the shadow on it grow?"]}, {"id": "C3.12.11", "lines": ["Fear fills his heart; his liver burns with pain;", "He grieves for all the sons he saw lie slain."]}, {"id": "C3.12.12", "lines": ["His many sons were slain and lost their heads,", "Their bodies scattered where the red dust spreads.’"]}, {"id": "C3.12.13", "lines": ["As proof, a Turk came boldly through our band,", "Like a fierce lion, spear held in his hand."]}, {"id": "C3.12.14", "lines": ["He went before Gudarz and raised his cry,", "A drunken elephant that none would try."]}, {"id": "C3.12.15", "lines": ["Among Iran’s renowned and mighty train,", "It seemed no horseman dared to take the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.12.16", "lines": ["Not one would spear him, hoist him up to sit", "Like a bird skewered on a roasting spit."]}, {"id": "C3.12.17", "lines": ["Now clothe my shoulders, prudent sire, I pray,", "In Siavash’s armor for the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.12.18", "lines": ["For I alone must meet him where we ride,", "And grind to dust his manhood and his pride.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.19", "lines": ["Giv said, “My son, let judgment guide you here;", "Attend to all my words with careful ear."]}, {"id": "C3.12.20", "lines": ["I warned you once: be measured in your speech,", "Nor let harsh words against old Gudarz reach."]}, {"id": "C3.12.21", "lines": ["He has experience, wisdom, and command,", "And leads the nobles of Iran’s broad land."]}, {"id": "C3.12.22", "lines": ["Before him stand our warriors, trained to fight,", "Who could tear elephants apart in might."]}, {"id": "C3.12.23", "lines": ["Do not torment my heart with grief and dread;", "Has youth so utterly confused your head?"]}, {"id": "C3.12.24", "lines": ["You lift your head and hurry here to plead", "For leave to fight and satisfy your need."]}, {"id": "C3.12.25", "lines": ["I do not share this purpose you pursue;", "Speak of this plan no more before my view.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.26", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “If you will not agree,", "Then fame is not a thing you wish for me."]}, {"id": "C3.12.27", "lines": ["I shall go armed before the sepahbod’s face,", "And strike my breast to plead the warrior’s case.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.28", "lines": ["He wheeled his horse and hurried on his way,", "To reach Gudarz and speak without delay."]}, {"id": "C3.12.29", "lines": ["He came with praise and anguish in his tone,", "And told the whole account before his throne:"]}, {"id": "C3.12.30", "lines": ["“O Pahlevan who guards the Shah’s great name,", "Who knows all things and crowns the throne with fame,"]}, {"id": "C3.12.31", "lines": ["I marvel at the course that you pursue,", "Though little wisdom grants me such a view."]}, {"id": "C3.12.32", "lines": ["You make a garden of this field of fight,", "And cease to seek revenge on Turan’s might."]}, {"id": "C3.12.33", "lines": ["Tell me why here, where armies stand arrayed,", "We rest in idleness, the fight delayed."]}, {"id": "C3.12.34", "lines": ["No warrior’s sword has flashed before the sun;", "No breath of warmth across a gorz has run."]}, {"id": "C3.12.35", "lines": ["Give word, and I shall seek the battle’s heat;", "Whom shall I bind where these close armies meet?"]}, {"id": "C3.12.36", "lines": ["More strange: a luckless Turk has lost his way,", "And wandered from the army’s great array."]}, {"id": "C3.12.37", "lines": ["God, giver of all good, devised his fall,", "And brought this evil man before us all."]}, {"id": "C3.12.38", "lines": ["He led him from Turan’s assembled band,", "So he might meet destruction at your hand."]}, {"id": "C3.12.39", "lines": ["You freed the wolf that stumbled in your snare;", "What purpose made you choose his life to spare?"]}, {"id": "C3.12.40", "lines": ["You think that if we spill his blood in fight,", "Piran will keep his army from our sight."]}, {"id": "C3.12.41", "lines": ["Do not suppose he first will leave his place", "And move his army to the open space."]}, {"id": "C3.12.42", "lines": ["Behold, my hands are bathed in blood; I stand", "Prepared to fight with Houman, hand to hand."]}, {"id": "C3.12.43", "lines": ["If you permit me, I shall take the field,", "A roaring lion, with no thought to yield."]}, {"id": "C3.12.44", "lines": ["Now order Giv to give me in your sight", "The arms of Siavash for this fight."]}, {"id": "C3.12.45", "lines": ["Let Giv bring helm and jowshan, Roman-made,", "Unbind their knots; let my plea be obeyed.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.46", "lines": ["When old Gudarz heard Bijan’s words, he knew", "The courage and the wisdom in his view."]}, {"id": "C3.12.47", "lines": ["He blessed him, full of joy, and thus would pray:", "“May fortune never turn from you away."]}, {"id": "C3.12.48", "lines": ["Since first you took the leopard saddle’s height,", "Nahangs fell still; the lions ceased to fight."]}, {"id": "C3.12.49", "lines": ["You never rest; you lead in every field,", "And seek adventure, forcing foes to yield."]}, {"id": "C3.12.50", "lines": ["Consider if your strength can bear the fray;", "Then challenge him, if you can stand that day."]}, {"id": "C3.12.51", "lines": ["For Houman’s heart is evil, steeped in guile;", "Like Ahriman, he fights with purpose vile."]}, {"id": "C3.12.52", "lines": ["You are still young; few years have crossed your head,", "Yet you would risk your life among the dead."]}, {"id": "C3.12.53", "lines": ["Let me send forth a lion, battle-tried,", "Who, like a cloud, will thunder to his side."]}, {"id": "C3.12.54", "lines": ["His arrows, thick as hail, shall strike and pin", "The steel of Houman’s helmet to his skin.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.55", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “A gallant youth should show", "His native worth and let his valor grow."]}, {"id": "C3.12.56", "lines": ["If you once saw my fight when Forood fell,", "Then test my fame today; this field will tell."]}, {"id": "C3.12.57", "lines": ["I churned the earth when Pashan’s battle burned;", "No man has seen my back when war has turned."]}, {"id": "C3.12.58", "lines": ["I am unfit for life if I should stand", "Below the other warriors of this land."]}, {"id": "C3.12.59", "lines": ["Now if you still deny me and command,", "‘Do not oppose your arm to Houman’s hand,’"]}, {"id": "C3.12.60", "lines": ["I will tell the Shah how you have held me down,", "Then cast aside my belt and warrior’s crown.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.61", "lines": ["Gudarz laughed gladly at the youth’s reply,", "And seemed a noble cypress rising high."]}, {"id": "C3.12.62", "lines": ["He answered, “Giv is fortunate to breed", "A son so brave, of such heroic seed."]}, {"id": "C3.12.63", "lines": ["May I not forget that blessed hour of birth,", "When your pure mother brought you forth to earth."]}, {"id": "C3.12.64", "lines": ["Since first you raised your hands with lion might,", "The leopards have sheathed their claws and fled your sight."]}, {"id": "C3.12.65", "lines": ["You may meet Houman; may good fortune guide", "Your heart and hand when you confront his pride."]}, {"id": "C3.12.66", "lines": ["In God’s great name, who guards us every hour,", "And by our Shah’s and heroes’ conquering power,"]}, {"id": "C3.12.67", "lines": ["Strive so this Ahriman, by God’s command,", "May meet his destined death beneath your hand."]}, {"id": "C3.12.68", "lines": ["I shall tell Giv: ‘Give Bijan at his call", "The armor he has asked for, helm and all.’"]}, {"id": "C3.12.69", "lines": ["If you shall crush this foe upon the field,", "Still greater honor in my eyes you will wield."]}, {"id": "C3.12.70", "lines": ["Above brave Farhad and your sire you will stand,", "With treasure, throne, and crown, and troops in hand.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.71", "lines": ["Thus spoke the grandfather; the youth stood near,", "Resourceful, full of plans, his judgment clear."]}, {"id": "C3.12.72", "lines": ["Bijan dismounted, kissed the ground in praise,", "And blessed the Pahlevan for happy days."]}, {"id": "C3.12.73", "lines": ["Then old Gudarz called Giv before his gaze,", "And spoke about the youth and his bold ways."]}, {"id": "C3.12.74", "lines": ["They spoke about the youth and his desire", "To fight in Siavash’s royal attire."]}, {"id": "C3.12.75", "lines": ["Giv said, “O chief, this son is all to me;", "My life, my mind, my world; no trifle he."]}, {"id": "C3.12.76", "lines": ["I cannot part from him or send him where", "The dragon’s burning breath would scorch the air.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.77", "lines": ["“Fond father,” old Gudarz replied, “be still;", "Do not torment your soul with thoughts of ill."]}, {"id": "C3.12.78", "lines": ["Though Bijan is still young, in all his deeds", "His wisdom goes before him as he leads."]}, {"id": "C3.12.79", "lines": ["Besides, this is the place to take our due,", "And wash the world with blood for vengeance true."]}, {"id": "C3.12.80", "lines": ["For Siavash, as royal orders run,", "We cannot spare our own, not even one."]}, {"id": "C3.12.81", "lines": ["Though clouds rain gorzes down and swords descend,", "We cannot hold our lives too dear to spend."]}, {"id": "C3.12.82", "lines": ["Do not break Bijan’s heart or curb his claim;", "Clothe him in honor, mindful of his name."]}, {"id": "C3.12.83", "lines": ["For when a youth lets idleness take hold,", "His spirit darkens and his heart grows cold.”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.84", "lines": ["Giv found no answer, no remaining way;", "Once more he tried to counsel him to stay."]}, {"id": "C3.12.85", "lines": ["To turn his son from combat’s fierce acclaim,", "He said, “You turn your honor into shame!”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.86", "lines": ["He told Gudarz, “O chief, where warriors strive,", "And struggle in the hope to stay alive,"]}, {"id": "C3.12.87", "lines": ["No son, no treasure, troops, or king’s decree,", "Nor reverence for a chief, means much to me."]}, {"id": "C3.12.88", "lines": ["My days are hard enough with strife and pain;", "Why should I give my life upon this plain?"]}, {"id": "C3.12.89", "lines": ["If he seeks war, where is his battle gear?", "He has his jowshan; why ask for mine here?”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.90", "lines": ["Then Bijan answered in his father’s sight,", "“I have no need of your jowshan to fight."]}, {"id": "C3.12.91", "lines": ["Do you suppose all warriors must be dressed", "In your own jowshan, to put skill to test?"]}, {"id": "C3.12.92", "lines": ["Without Siavash’s jowshan, must fame", "Be lost to chiefs who strive to guard their name?”"]}, {"id": "C3.12.93", "lines": ["Then Bijan spurred his horse and left the train,", "To reach the field of combat on the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.13.1", "lines": ["When Bijan vanished from the gathered field,", "Giv’s heart broke open; grief would not be sealed."]}, {"id": "C3.13.2", "lines": ["Repenting, he shed bloody tears in pain;", "See what a son may make the heart sustain."]}, {"id": "C3.13.3", "lines": ["He raised his head to heaven, bowed by grief;", "His bleeding heart could find no sweet relief."]}, {"id": "C3.13.4", "lines": ["“O Judge of all the world, behold my heart;", "Look on the wounds that tear my life apart."]}, {"id": "C3.13.5", "lines": ["Do not let Bijan’s loss consume my soul;", "My tears have mired my feet; now make me whole."]}, {"id": "C3.13.6", "lines": ["Restore my Bijan, Maker, hear my plea;", "Turn evil fortune from his life for me.”"]}, {"id": "C3.13.7", "lines": ["In sorrow for his son, he onward went,", "His heart consumed by grief and discontent."]}, {"id": "C3.13.8", "lines": ["He thought, “I hurt him needlessly today;", "Why did I keep the arms he sought away?"]}, {"id": "C3.13.9", "lines": ["If Houman harms him, what use shall I see", "In jowshan, sword, and girdle left to me?"]}, {"id": "C3.13.10", "lines": ["I shall be left with longing, grief, and pain,", "My heart in anguish, tears that fall like rain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.13.11", "lines": ["Like dust he sped until he reached his son,", "His heart weighed down by grief for what was done."]}, {"id": "C3.13.12", "lines": ["He said, “Why bring such anguish to us here?", "Why hurry when you ought to pause, my dear?"]}, {"id": "C3.13.13", "lines": ["The black snake hisses, bold with battle-pride,", "Until a nahang rises from the tide."]}, {"id": "C3.13.14", "lines": ["The moon may shine with all its borrowed light", "While still the sun stays hidden from our sight."]}, {"id": "C3.13.15", "lines": ["You rush on Houman, turning from my word,", "And close your ears to counsel you have heard."]}, {"id": "C3.13.16", "lines": ["You choose to follow only your own will,", "Not knowing whether good awaits or ill.”"]}, {"id": "C3.13.17", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “Do not turn back my heart", "From Siavash’s vengeance and my part."]}, {"id": "C3.13.18", "lines": ["Houman is not of brass or iron made,", "No elephant, and no Div with a blade."]}, {"id": "C3.13.19", "lines": ["He is a man of war; I shall prepare", "To meet him; with your fortune, why despair?"]}, {"id": "C3.13.20", "lines": ["My fate may still be written otherwise", "Than I desire; the Judge of all is wise."]}, {"id": "C3.13.21", "lines": ["Since what must be, will be, do not grieve now,", "Nor let care draw its shadow on your brow.”"]}, {"id": "C3.13.22", "lines": ["Giv heard his son, prepared for coming strife,", "A lion-hearted youth who risked his life."]}, {"id": "C3.13.23", "lines": ["He dismounted, gave him shield and steed,", "Siavash’s jowshan, for battle’s need."]}, {"id": "C3.13.24", "lines": ["He said, “If you are bent on fight today,", "And stubborn will has driven thought away,"]}, {"id": "C3.13.25", "lines": ["Mount this swift charger, which will roll the ground", "Beneath your feet when battle gathers round."]}, {"id": "C3.13.26", "lines": ["That jowshan shields your body in the fight,", "Since you must face an Ahriman of might.”"]}, {"id": "C3.13.27", "lines": ["When Bijan saw his father’s steed brought near,", "He sprang down from his own to meet it here."]}, {"id": "C3.13.28", "lines": ["He mounted on the royal horse to ride,", "Then bound his girdle, slung his gorz beside."]}, {"id": "C3.13.29", "lines": ["He sought among the troops a man who knew", "The Turkish tongue, and spoke its meaning true."]}, {"id": "C3.13.30", "lines": ["Then like a mighty lion he rode on,", "To take revenge for Siavash, now gone."]}, {"id": "C3.13.31", "lines": ["When Bijan reached fierce Houman on the plain,", "He saw an iron mountain clad in chain."]}, {"id": "C3.13.32", "lines": ["The desert glittered with his jowshan bright;", "An elephant beneath it stood in might."]}, {"id": "C3.13.33", "lines": ["He bade the interpreter loudly say:", "“Draw rein if battle brings you here today."]}, {"id": "C3.13.34", "lines": ["Bijan stands ready now to meet your blows;", "Now choose the ground on which the two will close."]}, {"id": "C3.13.35", "lines": ["Why urge your horse across this meadow’s grass,", "O seasoned warrior, where the armies mass?"]}, {"id": "C3.13.36", "lines": ["From Afrasiab, harm shall fall on you;", "Turan’s whole land should curse the deeds you do."]}, {"id": "C3.13.37", "lines": ["You laid the ground for vengeance through your crime;", "No Turk bears greater guilt in all our time."]}, {"id": "C3.13.38", "lines": ["I look to God for aid and give Him praise", "For bringing you before me in these days."]}, {"id": "C3.13.39", "lines": ["Draw rein upon that charger’s headlong course;", "Your blood boils hot with vengeance’s driving force."]}, {"id": "C3.13.40", "lines": ["Choose any place where we may wheel and fight;", "Desert, dale, mountain, or the armies’ sight."]}, {"id": "C3.13.41", "lines": ["Or choose the ground between the battle-lines,", "Where friend and foe may judge the day’s designs."]}, {"id": "C3.13.42", "lines": ["There friend and foe alike may see the test;", "Now choose the ground that you consider best.”"]}, {"id": "C3.13.43", "lines": ["Houman laughed loudly, answering him then:", "“O luckless one, ill-starred among all men!"]}, {"id": "C3.13.44", "lines": ["You trust your body’s strength to save your head;", "Perhaps your heart longs for your death instead."]}, {"id": "C3.13.45", "lines": ["I will send you back in such a broken state", "That Giv shall burn with grief to see your fate."]}, {"id": "C3.13.46", "lines": ["Soon I shall sever your head from your frame,", "As with your gallant kin, in death and shame."]}, {"id": "C3.13.47", "lines": ["Within my claws, a pheasant, you shall lie,", "Seized by a hawk on cypress branches high."]}, {"id": "C3.13.48", "lines": ["You shall cry out as bloody teardrops flow;", "The hawk drips blood, bent like a curving bow."]}, {"id": "C3.13.49", "lines": ["But what use now? The night is drawing near;", "Take refuge in its darkness, free from fear."]}, {"id": "C3.13.50", "lines": ["I shall return to camp, then take my stand", "At dawn before the chief who holds command."]}, {"id": "C3.13.51", "lines": ["Then I shall come with head held high to fight,", "Prepared to meet you and to test your might.”"]}, {"id": "C3.13.52", "lines": ["“Go then,” said Bijan. “May a ditch be near", "Behind, and Ahriman before your spear."]}, {"id": "C3.13.53", "lines": ["May all our enemies lie dead in pain,", "Or flee the battle, scattered on the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.13.54", "lines": ["Tomorrow, if you come to fight, your men", "And king shall never see your face again."]}, {"id": "C3.13.55", "lines": ["Your head and feet shall lie so far apart,", "No thought of troops will stir within your heart.”"]}, {"id": "C3.13.56", "lines": ["They wheeled away and left the field that night,", "Abandoning the ground reserved for fight."]}, {"id": "C3.13.57", "lines": ["They each returned where their own army lay,", "And met the captains whom the troops obey."]}, {"id": "C3.13.58", "lines": ["All night their sleep was troubled, full of dread;", "Their restless hearts burned for the fight ahead."]}, {"id": "C3.14.1", "lines": ["When morning breathed above the mountain height,", "And dark night’s skirt withdrew before the light,"]}, {"id": "C3.14.2", "lines": ["Houman put on his armor for the fray,", "And told Piran what passed the previous day:"]}, {"id": "C3.14.3", "lines": ["“I challenged Bijan, Giv’s own son, to fight,", "And made my preparations through the night.”"]}, {"id": "C3.14.4", "lines": ["He called his interpreter from the array,", "And mounted him upon his wind-swift bay."]}, {"id": "C3.14.5", "lines": ["“Go, tell Bijan to hurry here,” he spoke,", "“Or I shall come upon him like thick smoke.”"]}, {"id": "C3.14.6", "lines": ["The envoy turned and said, “May wisdom stay", "Beside your noble soul and guide your way.”"]}, {"id": "C3.14.7", "lines": ["Then Houman came like dust to seek the fray,", "And fight with Bijan on the plain that day."]}, {"id": "C3.14.8", "lines": ["Bijan came then also, set to meet his foe,", "His interpreter with him, ready to go."]}, {"id": "C3.14.9", "lines": ["He tightened Shabrang’s girth for the fight,", "And came like a fierce leopard in his might."]}, {"id": "C3.14.10", "lines": ["His royal casque shone bright upon his head;", "Across his breast his knotted jowshan spread."]}, {"id": "C3.14.11", "lines": ["He said, “You reckless fool, last night your life", "Was spared; you left the field and quit the strife."]}, {"id": "C3.14.12", "lines": ["Today I hope this sword within my hand", "Will part your head and body on the sand."]}, {"id": "C3.14.13", "lines": ["Your blood shall make flowers blossom from the clay;", "Take now to heart the tale that I shall say."]}, {"id": "C3.14.14", "lines": ["A mountain ram once told the deer one day:", "‘Though silk should clothe that plain in rich array,"]}, {"id": "C3.14.15", "lines": ["I will not tread that ground, though dressed so fair,", "Where once my foot was caught within a snare.’”"]}, {"id": "C3.14.16", "lines": ["Houman replied, “Today bold Giv shall break,", "And grieve his son for this mad battle’s sake."]}, {"id": "C3.14.17", "lines": ["Will you contend with me at Kanabad,", "Or choose the distant field beside Raibad?"]}, {"id": "C3.14.18", "lines": ["So none can hear our cries or bring us aid,", "No man of Iran or Turan with blade.”"]}, {"id": "C3.14.19", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “Why talk? Fight where you will;", "Choose where to turn, and let our words be still.”"]}, {"id": "C3.14.20", "lines": ["They spurred their horses; dust rose from the ground,", "Their bows already strung for battle’s round."]}, {"id": "C3.14.21", "lines": ["Their heads rose toward the moon, their wrath ran high;", "For royal vengeance, each would kill or die."]}, {"id": "C3.14.22", "lines": ["They rode from Kanabad and left the height,", "Their faces toward the plain, prepared to fight."]}, {"id": "C3.14.23", "lines": ["They reached a desert where no footprints showed,", "No trace of any man upon their road."]}, {"id": "C3.14.24", "lines": ["No vultures crossed the empty sky ahead;", "No lion’s tracks marked where their chargers sped."]}, {"id": "C3.14.25", "lines": ["No comrade from the armies could they see,", "No helper near to hear what cries might be."]}, {"id": "C3.14.26", "lines": ["They made a pact: whoever won the day", "Would let the interpreters go on their way."]}, {"id": "C3.14.27", "lines": ["Whichever warrior should survive the fight", "Would hold no grudge against them for his plight,"]}, {"id": "C3.14.28", "lines": ["So they might tell the king both good and ill,", "And how the turns of fortune worked their will:"]}, {"id": "C3.14.29", "lines": ["What deeds were done, what fighting each had shown,", "What anguish on that field of blood was known."]}, {"id": "C3.14.30", "lines": ["This done, they both dismounted, jowshans laced,", "And knotted fast each strap about the waist."]}, {"id": "C3.14.31", "lines": ["With girths drawn hard as stone, they sat astride,", "Their saddles firm, and vengeance burned inside."]}, {"id": "C3.14.32", "lines": ["They took their bows and rode in fierce array,", "Into the narrow field to start the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.14.33", "lines": ["They bent their bows until the bowstrings strained,", "And steel-tipped khadang shafts between them rained."]}, {"id": "C3.14.34", "lines": ["When they had shot their arrows in the fight,", "They took their spears and charged with all their might."]}, {"id": "C3.14.35", "lines": ["They wheeled their horses, swerving left and right,", "And thrust their spears with tempered spearheads bright."]}, {"id": "C3.14.36", "lines": ["Their jowshans tore to fragments in the fray;", "See whose good fortune turns from him today."]}, {"id": "C3.14.37", "lines": ["Their mouths hung open, parched with thirst and pain;", "They longed for rest and water on the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.14.38", "lines": ["They paused and drew their breath, those fighting men,", "And cooled the fire before they fought again."]}, {"id": "C3.14.39", "lines": ["Then shields were raised and scimitars shone bright;", "The cries of Doomsday thundered through the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.14.40", "lines": ["Like lightning flashing from a cloud on high,", "Their helms and swords sent fire across the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.14.41", "lines": ["No iron could withstand the tempered steel,", "Or bear the blows those mighty hands could deal."]}, {"id": "C3.14.42", "lines": ["Their blades fell from their hands like flames of fire,", "As both fought on, their fury still entire."]}, {"id": "C3.14.43", "lines": ["Each hero failed to shed the other’s blood,", "Yet both hearts still burned on like fire and flood."]}, {"id": "C3.14.44", "lines": ["They took up gorzes, struck with all their might,", "And passed all bounds of fury in the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.14.45", "lines": ["Then both agreed to put their strength to test,", "And prove whose arm was mightiest and best."]}, {"id": "C3.14.46", "lines": ["Each sought to win the honor of the deed:", "To drag his rival from the lofty steed."]}, {"id": "C3.14.47", "lines": ["Whoever gripped the belt with greater strength", "Would fling his rival down, disgraced, full length."]}, {"id": "C3.14.48", "lines": ["The stirrup-leathers snapped beneath the strain,", "So fiercely did they grapple on the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.14.49", "lines": ["Yet neither lost his seat, for all their force;", "No man could throw the other from his horse."]}, {"id": "C3.14.50", "lines": ["Then both dismounted from their weary steeds,", "And rested briefly from their violent deeds."]}, {"id": "C3.14.51", "lines": ["The two interpreters held both steeds still;", "Like lions in their rage, they breathed their fill."]}, {"id": "C3.14.52", "lines": ["Then, though exhausted, both renewed the war,", "And braced themselves to wrestle, strained and sore."]}, {"id": "C3.14.53", "lines": ["From dawn until the sun spread shade below,", "They fought in fear and hope against the foe."]}, {"id": "C3.14.54", "lines": ["No man turned back, no warrior yielded ground;", "Each sought the fight, by vengeance firmly bound."]}, {"id": "C3.14.55", "lines": ["Their mouths grew parched; their bodies streamed with sweat,", "Beneath the sun, with toil and heat beset."]}, {"id": "C3.14.56", "lines": ["Then, by consent, they left the place of strife,", "And sought the water that sustains all life."]}, {"id": "C3.14.57", "lines": ["Bijan drank water, rose, and in his pain", "Remembered God, from whom all good we gain."]}, {"id": "C3.14.58", "lines": ["In pain he shook like willow in the gale;", "His hope of life grew faint, his strength grown frail."]}, {"id": "C3.14.59", "lines": ["He said, “O Maker, You know all I hide,", "And all that stands revealed on every side."]}, {"id": "C3.14.60", "lines": ["If You find justice in this fight we wage,", "And in the vengeance that has stirred our rage,"]}, {"id": "C3.14.61", "lines": ["Do not withdraw my strength from me today;", "Keep my mind clear and watchful through the fray.”"]}, {"id": "C3.15.1", "lines": ["Houman, crow-dark, his face like smoky night,", "Advanced, worn down, to meet the coming fight."]}, {"id": "C3.15.2", "lines": ["Both men were weary, yet came on with force,", "Like leopards wheeling back upon their course."]}, {"id": "C3.15.3", "lines": ["They strained against each other, round by round;", "Each, in his turn, was brought to brush the ground."]}, {"id": "C3.15.4", "lines": ["They strained with strength and every wrestler’s art,", "Till heaven’s hidden craft revealed its part."]}, {"id": "C3.15.5", "lines": ["Though Houman was the stronger of the two,", "When fortune turns, what can mere strength then do?"]}, {"id": "C3.15.6", "lines": ["With leopard strength, Bijan held his man, braced,", "And reached from head to grip him round the waist."]}, {"id": "C3.15.7", "lines": ["His left hand gripped the neck, his right the thigh;", "He bent that camel’s back and heaved him high."]}, {"id": "C3.15.8", "lines": ["He dashed him down and laid his rival low,", "Then drew his khanjar, swift as winds that blow."]}, {"id": "C3.15.9", "lines": ["He drove the khanjar in and sheared the head,", "Then cast him like a dragon, lifeless, dead."]}, {"id": "C3.15.10", "lines": ["The mighty body rolled upon the plain;", "Its blood poured out in streams across the terrain."]}, {"id": "C3.15.11", "lines": ["Bijan beheld that mighty bulk lie prone,", "Like some straight cypress felled and overthrown."]}, {"id": "C3.15.12", "lines": ["Amazed, he turned his face toward the height,", "And praised Yazdan who governs day and night."]}, {"id": "C3.15.13", "lines": ["“O Ruler, set beyond all place and time,", "Above the turning heavens’ bounds sublime,"]}, {"id": "C3.15.14", "lines": ["You alone command the world here below;", "No wisdom can deny that this is so."]}, {"id": "C3.15.15", "lines": ["I claim no share of prowess in this deed,", "No heart to face that elephant at need."]}, {"id": "C3.15.16", "lines": ["I struck for Siavash, whose blood cried long,", "And for my father’s brothers, seventy strong."]}, {"id": "C3.15.17", "lines": ["May Houman’s spirit serve my own at will,", "His body feed the lions on the hill.”"]}, {"id": "C3.15.18", "lines": ["To Shabrang’s saddle-straps he bound the head,", "And left the trunk upon its dusty bed."]}, {"id": "C3.15.19", "lines": ["His armor lay unfastened, belt untied;", "His head and trunk lay sundered, cast aside."]}, {"id": "C3.15.20", "lines": ["The world is all deception, through and through;", "In hardship, it will bring no help to you."]}, {"id": "C3.15.21", "lines": ["So let no trusting heart upon it lean,", "For what it does belies what we have seen."]}, {"id": "C3.15.22", "lines": ["When Houman, son of Viseh, breathed his last,", "The two interpreters came running fast."]}, {"id": "C3.15.23", "lines": ["They bowed as Brahmans bow before the shrine", "Of Chin’s great idol, held to be divine."]}, {"id": "C3.15.24", "lines": ["Then Bijan scanned the field and saw no way", "Except through Turan’s army in array."]}, {"id": "C3.15.25", "lines": ["He feared that murderous multitude would rise,", "When Houman’s fall appeared before their eyes."]}, {"id": "C3.15.26", "lines": ["They might pour forth like mountains to the fight;", "Alone, he could not match their gathered might."]}, {"id": "C3.15.27", "lines": ["He stripped Siavash’s jowshan from his frame,", "And wore Houman’s khaftan to conceal his name."]}, {"id": "C3.15.28", "lines": ["He mounted Houman’s great charger, light-gray,", "And bore the fallen chieftain’s flag away."]}, {"id": "C3.15.29", "lines": ["He blessed his wakeful fortune and the ground,", "The field where such good tiding had been found."]}, {"id": "C3.15.30", "lines": ["When Houman’s own interpreter drew near,", "And saw his master slain, he shook with fear."]}, {"id": "C3.15.31", "lines": ["Then Bijan freed him, and his fear allayed:", "“Fear nothing. I will keep the pledge I made."]}, {"id": "C3.15.32", "lines": ["Go tell your army what your eyes have known,", "And say what deeds this battlefield has shown.”"]}, {"id": "C3.15.33", "lines": ["The man departed; Bijan bent his bow,", "Then rode where Mount Kanabad’s foothills show."]}, {"id": "C3.15.34", "lines": ["When Turkish watchmen saw, against the sky,", "Their prince’s signs and sable banner fly,"]}, {"id": "C3.15.35", "lines": ["They rose and cheered to see that welcome sight,", "And filled the watch-post with their loud delight."]}, {"id": "C3.15.36", "lines": ["They sent a hiyun rider off like smoke,", "To tell Piran what sudden hopes awoke."]}, {"id": "C3.15.37", "lines": ["“Houman returns victorious from the fray;", "The king’s good fortune crowned his deeds today."]}, {"id": "C3.15.38", "lines": ["The Iranian flag is overturned,” he said,", "“Their champion lies in dust and blood, struck dead.”"]}, {"id": "C3.15.39", "lines": ["The camp cried out; their leader strained his ear", "To catch Houman’s swift hoofbeats drawing near."]}, {"id": "C3.15.40", "lines": ["What joy is there that brings no grief or woe?", "Its fire rains hail upon the helms below."]}, {"id": "C3.15.41", "lines": ["Now Bijan reached the shelter of his side,", "Where Iran’s royal power could guard his ride."]}, {"id": "C3.15.42", "lines": ["The interpreter returned and told the fight,", "Relating all that passed before his sight."]}, {"id": "C3.15.43", "lines": ["The tidings reached Piran and struck him low;", "His royal splendor darkened at the blow."]}, {"id": "C3.15.44", "lines": ["A cry from Turan’s army rent the air;", "The warriors tore their helms off in despair."]}, {"id": "C3.15.45", "lines": ["The world grew dark beneath that weight of grief;", "Their frantic words could bring them no relief."]}, {"id": "C3.15.46", "lines": ["The lion-hearted victor, battle-tried,", "Reversed the sable banner at his side."]}, {"id": "C3.15.47", "lines": ["Iranian watchmen saw the flag reversed,", "And knew their champion as their glad cries burst."]}, {"id": "C3.15.48", "lines": ["They turned toward the chief and raised a cry,", "Till news of triumph rang beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.15.49", "lines": ["They sent a hiyun rider with swift pace", "To bring Gudarz the triumph of his race:"]}, {"id": "C3.15.50", "lines": ["“Bijan returns in triumph from the fight,", "And bears the sable flag reversed in sight.”"]}, {"id": "C3.15.51", "lines": ["Giv wandered like a man by grief destroyed,", "Still crying out for news, his hopes made void."]}, {"id": "C3.15.52", "lines": ["He sought his son with every anxious breath,", "And in joy’s hour still mourned as though for death."]}, {"id": "C3.15.53", "lines": ["Then tidings came of Bijan’s victory;", "Giv rushed to where his living son would be."]}, {"id": "C3.15.54", "lines": ["He saw his son; at once, his spirit stirred,", "He left his saddle like a swooping bird."]}, {"id": "C3.15.55", "lines": ["He rolled in dust and bowed his head in praise", "To God, the righteous Judge of all our days."]}, {"id": "C3.15.56", "lines": ["He clasped his wise and valiant son and held", "Him close, the terror of the day dispelled."]}, {"id": "C3.15.57", "lines": ["All sought Gudarz with praise that never ceased,", "As Bijan came through war, from death released."]}, {"id": "C3.15.58", "lines": ["When Bijan saw his grandfather appear,", "He left the horse of Houman, that brave peer."]}, {"id": "C3.15.59", "lines": ["His arms were bloody, dust lay on his head;", "The saddle bore the head of Houman, dead."]}, {"id": "C3.15.60", "lines": ["He brought the armor, steed, and head to show", "Gudarz the tokens of his fallen foe."]}, {"id": "C3.15.61", "lines": ["Gudarz rejoiced as though his soul would spill", "Beyond his breast, and all the world would fill."]}, {"id": "C3.15.62", "lines": ["He praised the Judge of all for fortune’s sign,", "And blessed the star that made that fortune shine."]}, {"id": "C3.15.63", "lines": ["He called his treasurer to bring a crown,", "And royal robes befitting such renown."]}, {"id": "C3.15.64", "lines": ["The robe was jewel-woven, gold its ground;", "Like sunlight shone the crown and belt around."]}, {"id": "C3.15.65", "lines": ["Ten steeds with golden bridles came in line,", "Ten handsome servants, gold belts gleaming fine."]}, {"id": "C3.15.66", "lines": ["He gave them, saying, “Since great Sahm, no peer", "Has brought a dragon low as you did here."]}, {"id": "C3.15.67", "lines": ["You freed our army’s hand and cleared its way,", "And broke the Turkish monarch’s heart today."]}, {"id": "C3.15.68", "lines": ["Our army now, like lions in their pride,", "Roars as their swift steeds bear them on their ride.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.1", "lines": ["Across the field, Piran, in grief and wrath,", "With tear-filled eyes, looked down destruction’s path."]}, {"id": "C3.16.2", "lines": ["Piran sent word to Nastihan, whose might", "Was famed for bringing aid in desperate fight:"]}, {"id": "C3.16.3", "lines": ["“Prepare at once; do not delay or pause,", "But rise tonight for blood and brother’s cause."]}, {"id": "C3.16.4", "lines": ["Attack Iran by night with sudden roar,", "And make the earth a Jihun filled with gore."]}, {"id": "C3.16.5", "lines": ["Lead forth ten thousand horsemen, proved through years,", "All armed for war with lances, blades, and spears."]}, {"id": "C3.16.6", "lines": ["Avenge Houman; bring vengeance on their head,", "And strike the enemies who laid him dead.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.7", "lines": ["Then Nastihan replied: “I shall obey;", "The earth shall run like Jihun in the fray.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.8", "lines": ["Two-thirds of night had passed when on the plain", "The ground shook hard beneath the horsemen’s train."]}, {"id": "C3.16.9", "lines": ["The Turks rode out, resolved to raise their name", "By night assault and win a warrior’s fame."]}, {"id": "C3.16.10", "lines": ["As Nastihan led on his vengeful band,", "He neared the troops that guarded Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "C3.16.11", "lines": ["At dawn his marching force appeared in sight;", "The watchman saw him from his lookout height."]}, {"id": "C3.16.12", "lines": ["The scouts sped lightly toward Gudarz and cried:", "“A force approaches like a silent tide."]}, {"id": "C3.16.13", "lines": ["Like running water, on they flow and go,", "With not a voice to tell us of the foe."]}, {"id": "C3.16.14", "lines": ["They seem like men whose tongues refuse to speak;", "A night assault is what these horsemen seek."]}, {"id": "C3.16.15", "lines": ["You know, sepahbod, how men strike by night;", "You know the manner of this sudden fight.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.16", "lines": ["Then Gudarz gave his army orders clear:", "“Stay wide awake; be keen of mind and ear."]}, {"id": "C3.16.17", "lines": ["Give ear to every sound that they may make,", "Till signs reveal the course their troops will take.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.18", "lines": ["Then Gudarz called young Bijan to his side,", "With troops whose swords in battle had been tried."]}, {"id": "C3.16.19", "lines": ["He said: “Success and fortune are your own;", "The hearts of foes break when your name is known."]}, {"id": "C3.16.20", "lines": ["Take whom you need from all these chiefs of mine,", "These famous warriors of my proven line."]}, {"id": "C3.16.21", "lines": ["Receive their charge as lions meet their prey,", "And bring their army down in this affray.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.22", "lines": ["Bijan chose out a thousand horsemen, bold", "In battle, men whom fear could never hold."]}, {"id": "C3.16.23", "lines": ["The two sides met, prepared for bitter fight,", "Their hearts intent on vengeance in their might."]}, {"id": "C3.16.24", "lines": ["They raised their gorzes; from the darkened ground", "A cloud of dust rose up and spread around."]}, {"id": "C3.16.25", "lines": ["That dust completely obscured the night skies;", "Its shadow poured across the Turkish eyes."]}, {"id": "C3.16.26", "lines": ["When Bijan saw their ranks concealed in cloud,", "He called his men and gave command aloud:"]}, {"id": "C3.16.27", "lines": ["“String bows at once.” The din of battle rose,", "As every warrior cried against their foes."]}, {"id": "C3.16.28", "lines": ["The air turned rust-dark; blood engulfed the plain,", "A sea of crimson spread among the slain."]}, {"id": "C3.16.29", "lines": ["Two-thirds of Turan’s troops lay dead in blood,", "Beneath the horses’ feet, trod into mud."]}, {"id": "C3.16.30", "lines": ["He caught up with Nastihan; overhead,", "Above his spear, the flag of Viseh spread."]}, {"id": "C3.16.31", "lines": ["An arrow flew from Bijan’s mighty bow,", "And struck the steed beneath his armored foe."]}, {"id": "C3.16.32", "lines": ["The wounded horse collapsed in bitter pain;", "Then Bijan reached his foe upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.16.33", "lines": ["His gorz struck hard upon the helmeted head,", "And crushed his brain; there Nastihan lay dead."]}, {"id": "C3.16.34", "lines": ["Then Bijan cried: “Let all who gird for fight", "Take sword and gorz to show their warrior might."]}, {"id": "C3.16.35", "lines": ["Who takes a bow shall rue it; I will wrest", "That bow from him and break it on his crest."]}, {"id": "C3.16.36", "lines": ["Though Turkish faces shine with fairy grace,", "They lack the skill to meet us face to face.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.37", "lines": ["His warriors gathered courage from that breath,", "And drew their flashing steel to harvest death."]}, {"id": "C3.16.38", "lines": ["Like fallen elephants, across the ground", "Lay mighty bodies, severed heads around."]}, {"id": "C3.16.39", "lines": ["The rest fled toward their army’s rear in fear,", "While Iranians pressed with blade and level spear."]}, {"id": "C3.16.40", "lines": ["Piran saw Nastihan had not come back;", "The world grew dark, and grief came on his track."]}, {"id": "C3.16.41", "lines": ["He told the scouts: “Send a hiyun rider near", "Iran’s armed ranks, and bring me tidings here."]}, {"id": "C3.16.42", "lines": ["Let him bring word of Nastihan,” he said,", "“Or I shall tear both eyes out of his head.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.43", "lines": ["They sent a hiyun rider from their men;", "He saw the field and hurried back again."]}, {"id": "C3.16.44", "lines": ["He said: “There Nastihan lies on the plain,", "Among Turan’s great captains who were slain."]}, {"id": "C3.16.45", "lines": ["Beheaded, like an elephant laid low,", "He lies there, fallen to the fatal blow."]}, {"id": "C3.16.46", "lines": ["His body, battered by the gorz, lies blue,", "As though steeped deep in indigo’s dark hue.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.47", "lines": ["At this report, Piran cried out in pain;", "His senses left him; grief engulfed his brain."]}, {"id": "C3.16.48", "lines": ["He tore his hair, and wept, and could not sleep;", "Nor food nor rest could reach a grief so deep."]}, {"id": "C3.16.49", "lines": ["He rent his Roman robe; his wailings rose,", "A cry of anguish for those bitter blows."]}, {"id": "C3.16.50", "lines": ["He said: “O Maker, I must bear the blame", "For secret wrong against Your holy name."]}, {"id": "C3.16.51", "lines": ["For strength has left my arms, and all on high", "My star and sun are darkened in the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.16.52", "lines": ["Alas, that horseman, valiant, young, and dear,", "Who felled the lions, seized the warriors here!"]}, {"id": "C3.16.53", "lines": ["My dear world-guarding brother, lost to me,", "My Houman, head of Viseh’s family!"]}, {"id": "C3.16.54", "lines": ["And Nastihan, fierce lion in the fray,", "Who made a leopard seem a fox at bay."]}, {"id": "C3.16.55", "lines": ["Who now remains to answer in my stead?", "I must lead forth the living for the dead.”"]}, {"id": "C3.16.56", "lines": ["He blew the ney; the koust began to sound;", "The sky turned indigo, ebony the ground."]}, {"id": "C3.16.57", "lines": ["The army marched down from Kanabad’s height;", "The sun and moon were robbed of all their light."]}, {"id": "C3.16.58", "lines": ["Iran’s sepahbod made the karnay call,", "And set his troops in place before them all."]}, {"id": "C3.16.59", "lines": ["Amid the ranks, Kaveh’s great standard flew;", "Before it shone the swords of violet hue."]}, {"id": "C3.16.60", "lines": ["The famous chiefs stood ready for the blows,", "With spears and ox-head gorzes for their foes."]}, {"id": "C3.16.61", "lines": ["At dawn the armies closed in bitter fight,", "And battled till the world grew dark with night."]}, {"id": "C3.16.62", "lines": ["At dusk they sought their tents, each hostile side", "Still filled with vengeance, war, and wounded pride."]}, {"id": "C3.16.63", "lines": ["Gudarz reached Raibad; his heart found no rest,", "For troubling thoughts lay heavy in his breast."]}, {"id": "C3.16.64", "lines": ["He said: “Today we fought a bitter fray,", "And slew the chieftains who opposed our way."]}, {"id": "C3.16.65", "lines": ["I think Piran will send his monarch word", "By hiyun rider, so this news is heard."]}, {"id": "C3.16.66", "lines": ["He will seek troops to bolster his array;", "I too must send our Shah the news today.”"]}, {"id": "C3.17.1", "lines": ["Gudarz then called a practiced scribe apart,", "And said, “I shall disclose my hidden heart."]}, {"id": "C3.17.2", "lines": ["If you should loose one word of what is said,", "Your tongue will bring disaster on your head.”"]}, {"id": "C3.17.3", "lines": ["He had a letter written to the throne,", "To make the army’s whole condition known."]}, {"id": "C3.17.4", "lines": ["He told Khosrow of all that had gone by,", "And every word of Piran’s stern reply."]}, {"id": "C3.17.5", "lines": ["He told how Giv bore kindness on his way,", "And showed how heaven turns from day to day."]}, {"id": "C3.17.6", "lines": ["He set down what reply to Giv was made,", "And to the wise chiefs at his side arrayed."]}, {"id": "C3.17.7", "lines": ["He told how Piran followed Giv to fight,", "Like some fierce leopard, toward Kanabad’s height."]}, {"id": "C3.17.8", "lines": ["He told how both sides chose their battleground,", "And fought until release from war was found."]}, {"id": "C3.17.9", "lines": ["Gudarz reported Houman’s final stand,", "And Nastihan struck down by Bijan’s hand."]}, {"id": "C3.17.10", "lines": ["He told how Bijan, through the day’s red roar,", "Had crushed Turan’s gorz-men till they fought no more."]}, {"id": "C3.17.11", "lines": ["When all the deeds of battle had been told,", "And every turn of combat was unrolled,"]}, {"id": "C3.17.12", "lines": ["He turned to Afrasiab: “His force is near;", "He has approached the river and is here."]}, {"id": "C3.17.13", "lines": ["If from Jihun’s bank he should command", "His army onward into Iran’s land,"]}, {"id": "C3.17.14", "lines": ["You know that we cannot withstand his might,", "O Shah of Iran, crowned with glory’s light,"]}, {"id": "C3.17.15", "lines": ["Unless Khosrow shall come to lend us aid,", "And crown the servants in his ranks arrayed."]}, {"id": "C3.17.16", "lines": ["But if Piran brings forth his own array,", "And asks no royal aid to join the fray,"]}, {"id": "C3.17.17", "lines": ["Khosrow shall learn what I, his servant, do", "Against Piran, through fortune drawn from you."]}, {"id": "C3.17.18", "lines": ["Of Rostam, binder of the Div, I pray,", "And wise Ashkash and Lohrasp, far away,"]}, {"id": "C3.17.19", "lines": ["Let the victorious Shah send word to say", "What each has done upon his distant way.”"]}, {"id": "C3.17.20", "lines": ["The letter sealed, Gudarz at once decreed", "A royal seat be fitted to a steed."]}, {"id": "C3.17.21", "lines": ["They made it ready for the coming ride,", "And brought out many coursers at his side."]}, {"id": "C3.17.22", "lines": ["He called young Hajir, prudent, keen of mind,", "Whose youthful years an elder’s sense combined."]}, {"id": "C3.17.23", "lines": ["The Pahlevan explained the whole affair", "To his discerning son with utmost care."]}, {"id": "C3.17.24", "lines": ["He said, “Wise son, devote your heart and will;", "Be keen, prepared this errand to fulfill."]}, {"id": "C3.17.25", "lines": ["If you would earn high standing in my sight,", "Now is the time to prove your worth and might."]}, {"id": "C3.17.26", "lines": ["Receive this secret letter; take the road,", "And fly like wind beneath its precious load."]}, {"id": "C3.17.27", "lines": ["Rest neither night nor day, nor scratch your head;", "Bear to the Shah this letter as I said.”"]}, {"id": "C3.17.28", "lines": ["He clasped his son in farewell, held him near;", "Then Hajir left his father, held so dear."]}, {"id": "C3.17.29", "lines": ["He called two kinsmen from the gathered train,", "And mounted them on steeds of ready rein."]}, {"id": "C3.17.30", "lines": ["He left his father’s tent and journeyed fast,", "With a fresh hiyun at each stage he passed."]}, {"id": "C3.17.31", "lines": ["They ate and slept in saddle through the night,", "And rode by day with steady, tireless might."]}, {"id": "C3.17.32", "lines": ["Thus pressing on, they made their journey fleet;", "Within a week they reached the royal seat."]}, {"id": "C3.17.33", "lines": ["When that swift rider came by Iran’s road,", "Word reached Khosrow within his high abode."]}, {"id": "C3.17.34", "lines": ["Khosrow sent Shammakh with proud chiefs in train,", "To welcome them across the royal plain."]}, {"id": "C3.17.35", "lines": ["Shammakh saw Hajir’s face and questioned him:", "“O hero’s son, who seizes lions grim,"]}, {"id": "C3.17.36", "lines": ["Is all well there? What news have you to bring,", "Who come so unexpectedly to the king?”"]}, {"id": "C3.17.37", "lines": ["At the Shah’s word they drew the curtain wide,", "And through the gate let mounted Hajir ride."]}, {"id": "C3.17.38", "lines": ["When he saw Khosrow, he bowed down to dust;", "The Shah received him with a monarch’s trust."]}, {"id": "C3.17.39", "lines": ["He asked him many things, then bade him stay", "Beside him, where a seat was set that day."]}, {"id": "C3.17.40", "lines": ["He asked of old Gudarz and chiefs well known,", "Of each in turn before the royal throne."]}, {"id": "C3.17.41", "lines": ["He brought the chiefs’ salutes to Khosrow’s ear,", "And made the army’s whole condition clear."]}, {"id": "C3.17.42", "lines": ["Then that wise youth, with spirit clear and bright,", "Gave Gudarz’s sealed letter to his sight."]}, {"id": "C3.17.43", "lines": ["The monarch called a scribe, who, word by word,", "Read out the letter till the whole was heard."]}, {"id": "C3.17.44", "lines": ["When all was read, the Shah, rejoicing, poured", "Rubies in Hajir’s mouth, a gleaming hoard."]}, {"id": "C3.17.45", "lines": ["He told his treasurer: “Bring from the store", "Dinars and silk brocades; set them before.”"]}, {"id": "C3.17.46", "lines": ["They brought the sacks and poured the gold in heaps,", "Till Hajir’s head was hidden in their deeps."]}, {"id": "C3.17.47", "lines": ["They brought a royal robe and jeweled crown,", "Such gifts as suit a monarch’s high renown."]}, {"id": "C3.17.48", "lines": ["And ten fine steeds were brought before his sight,", "Their golden saddles gleaming in the light."]}, {"id": "C3.17.49", "lines": ["His comrades too were robed with royal grace,", "And given coins and goods in that high place."]}, {"id": "C3.17.50", "lines": ["Then with the Shah they rose to drink the wine;", "The seats were set to suit that courtly design."]}, {"id": "C3.17.51", "lines": ["Hajir and all the nobles of the land", "Who served Khosrow took wine-cups in their hand."]}, {"id": "C3.17.52", "lines": ["They sat together through one night and day;", "Khosrow weighed all the matters of the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.17.53", "lines": ["At dawn Khosrow washed body, head, and hair,", "And first approached the Judge of all in prayer."]}, {"id": "C3.17.54", "lines": ["He donned fresh robes for worship, free of stain,", "His two eyes like a cloud that pours down rain."]}, {"id": "C3.17.55", "lines": ["He bent his back and bowed his head in praise", "Before the righteous Judge of all our days."]}, {"id": "C3.17.56", "lines": ["To God he prayed for victory and renown,", "For royal farr, the kingly throne and crown."]}, {"id": "C3.17.57", "lines": ["He cried to God of Afrasiab in pain,", "And from his eyes the tears poured down like rain."]}, {"id": "C3.17.58", "lines": ["He left the place of prayer, a cypress tall,", "And sat enthroned in farr within his hall."]}, {"id": "C3.18.1", "lines": ["The Shah called in his scribe and made him hear", "The words his answer needed to make clear."]}, {"id": "C3.18.2", "lines": ["He swiftly wrote the letter in reply,", "And set forth good and ill before the eye."]}, {"id": "C3.18.3", "lines": ["He praised the Pahlevan with kingly grace:", "“Live ever bright in soul, in name, in face."]}, {"id": "C3.18.4", "lines": ["Blessed be the chief, discerning, wise, and strong,", "Whose counsel guides, whose wrath drives war along."]}, {"id": "C3.18.5", "lines": ["Lord of the gopal and the violet blade,", "Through you Kaveh’s great standard shines displayed."]}, {"id": "C3.18.6", "lines": ["Praise be to God, the Ruler of the earth,", "Who gave our troops their triumph and their worth."]}, {"id": "C3.18.7", "lines": ["When fortune shone on you, the foe’s proud flame", "Went up in smoke and perished with his name."]}, {"id": "C3.18.8", "lines": ["You said: ‘With noble Giv I sent Piran", "Good envoys from the chosen chiefs of Iran."]}, {"id": "C3.18.9", "lines": ["I gave him counsel rich with honest light,", "But his corrupted judgment spurned the right."]}, {"id": "C3.18.10", "lines": ["He would not join in league, or love, or peace,", "Nor bid the old hostility decrease.’"]}, {"id": "C3.18.11", "lines": ["A chief once spoke this saying to explain", "His former counselor’s vengeful heart and brain:"]}, {"id": "C3.18.12", "lines": ["‘When judgment fails and drains the soul away,", "Ill fortune wounds the man and rules his day.’"]}, {"id": "C3.18.13", "lines": ["I knew Piran would not release his hate,", "Nor cleanse his heart of vengeance soon or late."]}, {"id": "C3.18.14", "lines": ["Yet for the kindly deeds that marked his past,", "I had not sought to crush him in war’s blast."]}, {"id": "C3.18.15", "lines": ["Now time has shown where all his loyalties lie;", "His love for Turan stands before the eye."]}, {"id": "C3.18.16", "lines": ["He sees no one but Afrasiab alone;", "Seek not to turn the love that he has shown."]}, {"id": "C3.18.17", "lines": ["If he sets blind desire above his own", "Good sense, no toil brings grass from flinty stone."]}, {"id": "C3.18.18", "lines": ["That you addressed the foe with gentle grace", "Befits the noblest warriors of our race."]}, {"id": "C3.18.19", "lines": ["Next, from your telling of the warriors’ clash,", "Their heavy gorzes and the battle’s crash,"]}, {"id": "C3.18.20", "lines": ["You told of fortune, favoring sun and moon,", "And all your toil beneath the battle’s noon."]}, {"id": "C3.18.21", "lines": ["I know your deeds will bring success in fight,", "When on the field you meet the foeman’s might."]}, {"id": "C3.18.22", "lines": ["Know strength and courage come from God always;", "While life remains, give Him your thanks and praise."]}, {"id": "C3.18.23", "lines": ["Third, you have said: ‘Afrasiab will guide", "His army onward through the river’s tide."]}, {"id": "C3.18.24", "lines": ["Piran has sent an envoy to his throne;", "His army turns toward Iran and our own.’"]}, {"id": "C3.18.25", "lines": ["The matter stands exactly as you write;", "Now hear my answer, setting all in light."]}, {"id": "C3.18.26", "lines": ["Know, thoughtful sage, approved in every deed,", "And trusted in all counsel, war, and need:"]}, {"id": "C3.18.27", "lines": ["His stay beside Jihun, his watchful stand,", "Was not to bring his troops against our band."]}, {"id": "C3.18.28", "lines": ["For troops from Chin have brought fresh danger near;", "On either flank lie ambushes to fear."]}, {"id": "C3.18.29", "lines": ["Many numbered men beneath their chiefs’ command", "Have taken stations round Turan’s broad land."]}, {"id": "C3.18.30", "lines": ["With Rostam, refuge of the brave, in place,", "Lohrasp and wise Ashkash now close the space."]}, {"id": "C3.18.31", "lines": ["Afrasiab saw foes on every side,", "And brought his army to the river’s tide."]}, {"id": "C3.18.32", "lines": ["If he advances from his guarded ground,", "His enemies will close his realm around."]}, {"id": "C3.18.33", "lines": ["Fourth, since you asked of chiefs you love so well,", "Hear now what fortune bids my letter tell:"]}, {"id": "C3.18.34", "lines": ["Be watchful, chief, and keep these things in view;", "In every task, may fortune go with you."]}, {"id": "C3.18.35", "lines": ["Upon the road that lion Rostam chose,", "The dust from Hind and far Kashmir arose."]}, {"id": "C3.18.36", "lines": ["From Khwarazm, where the watchful Ashkash went,", "The battle-cry rang high through heaven’s tent."]}, {"id": "C3.18.37", "lines": ["In battle, Shideh turned from him in flight,", "And sought Gurganj, defeated in the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.18.38", "lines": ["Where Lohrasp marched, the chiefs gave way and cleared", "The roads before his army as it neared."]}, {"id": "C3.18.39", "lines": ["Alanons and the Ghuz are ours today;", "Their roads and passes opened to our sway."]}, {"id": "C3.18.40", "lines": ["Should Afrasiab bring his army here,", "Across Jihun, our chiefs will seize his rear."]}, {"id": "C3.18.41", "lines": ["They will leave nothing in his grasp but air;", "His rearward lands will fall beneath their care."]}, {"id": "C3.18.42", "lines": ["You know he will not leave his towns behind,", "His thriving realm, the lands his fortunes bind,"]}, {"id": "C3.18.43", "lines": ["At Piran’s word, and set his foot this way,", "To leave his home to enemies as prey."]}, {"id": "C3.18.44", "lines": ["No word he speaks, whatever hour or place,", "Can hide from me or vanish without trace."]}, {"id": "C3.18.45", "lines": ["May that day never prosper, never shine,", "When he would lead his army to our line."]}, {"id": "C3.18.46", "lines": ["May no one see that day of bitter dread,", "When he can strike before us at our head."]}, {"id": "C3.18.47", "lines": ["Now I shall order Tus, the chief of might,", "To bind the koust on elephants for fight."]}, {"id": "C3.18.48", "lines": ["He will seize Dehestan and Gorgan’s plain,", "And raise our banner over that domain."]}, {"id": "C3.18.49", "lines": ["I too shall follow Tus to give you aid,", "With elephants and throne, in strength arrayed."]}, {"id": "C3.18.50", "lines": ["Meanwhile confront Piran; array your line,", "And offer battle under fortune’s sign."]}, {"id": "C3.18.51", "lines": ["Houman and Nastihan no longer stand", "Behind him; only wind is in his hand."]}, {"id": "C3.18.52", "lines": ["If he should call a chief to single strife,", "Give leave to meet him, staking fame and life."]}, {"id": "C3.18.53", "lines": ["If bold Piran should challenge you to fight,", "Go like a lion, fearless in your might."]}, {"id": "C3.18.54", "lines": ["Fear not Afrasiab; keep heart and will,", "Do not turn back, but face his army still."]}, {"id": "C3.18.55", "lines": ["You shall defeat them in the coming war,", "If you keep courage and your spirits soar."]}, {"id": "C3.18.56", "lines": ["My hope rests in the Maker’s guiding hand,", "That joyful days shall come at His command."]}, {"id": "C3.18.57", "lines": ["I think that when I come upon the way,", "And bring my army to support your fray,"]}, {"id": "C3.18.58", "lines": ["You will have gained your will against the foe,", "And raised your fame to where the sunbeams glow."]}, {"id": "C3.18.59", "lines": ["Your troops will then have finished with the fight,", "And all affairs be settled and set right.”"]}, {"id": "C3.18.60", "lines": ["From Kavus and from Tus, the Shah conveyed", "Full many greetings to the troops arrayed."]}, {"id": "C3.18.61", "lines": ["Khosrow then sealed the letter with his ring,", "And gave it, blessing him who served the king."]}, {"id": "C3.19.1", "lines": ["When Hajir left the royal court that day,", "Khosrow and his minister weighed the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.19.2", "lines": ["His care for troops, his thought of coming war,", "Held all his mind; he pondered nothing more."]}, {"id": "C3.19.3", "lines": ["He said, “If fierce Afrasiab should rise,", "And cross the stream, disaster clouds our skies."]}, {"id": "C3.19.4", "lines": ["He may drive back my troops and strike our men;", "The wiser course is I must march again.”"]}, {"id": "C3.19.5", "lines": ["He called brave Tus of Nohzar’s noble line,", "And gave command beneath the royal sign:"]}, {"id": "C3.19.6", "lines": ["“Lead forth your army straight to Dehestan,", "And fill Khwarazm’s broad plain, O Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C3.19.7", "lines": ["Protect the army on the day of fight,", "And charge like some fierce leopard in your might.”"]}, {"id": "C3.19.8", "lines": ["The tabira at Tus’s gateway cried;", "The brazen ney and mighty koust replied."]}, {"id": "C3.19.9", "lines": ["Chiefs and their troops marched out in ordered bands,", "Till horse-hooves hid the surface of the lands."]}, {"id": "C3.19.10", "lines": ["The circling sun itself seemed standing still,", "Struck motionless before their iron will."]}, {"id": "C3.19.11", "lines": ["Two weeks the army marched; its dust rose high,", "And dimmed the sun and moon across the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.19.12", "lines": ["Throughout the realm the news spread far and wide:", "The conquering Shah was setting out to ride."]}, {"id": "C3.19.13", "lines": ["For when Tus left, Khosrow prepared to go,", "His chosen chiefs arrayed in rank and row."]}, {"id": "C3.19.14", "lines": ["A hundred thousand chosen men of might,", "All Pahlevans and heroes fit for fight,"]}, {"id": "C3.19.15", "lines": ["He led toward Gudarz, with warriors known", "For fierce contention when the horns were blown."]}, {"id": "C3.19.16", "lines": ["With farr and koust and elephants he rode,", "With crown and throne, and left his own abode."]}, {"id": "C3.19.17", "lines": ["Hajir sped from Khosrow, smiling bright,", "His heart rejoicing in the homeward flight."]}, {"id": "C3.19.18", "lines": ["Clad in his robe of honor, blithe and gay,", "He rode as though the earth were swept away."]}, {"id": "C3.19.19", "lines": ["He neared the camp; the karnay rang on high,", "As though a strife had risen in the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.19.20", "lines": ["The moon and Venus, Jupiter in might,", "Seemed locked in heaven’s contest at that sight."]}, {"id": "C3.19.21", "lines": ["The whole world seemed to greet him as he came;", "The earth with tulips, air with gold, aflame."]}, {"id": "C3.19.22", "lines": ["Bright as a cock’s eye, all the ranks shone clear,", "With elephants, gold zang, and koust drawn near."]}, {"id": "C3.19.23", "lines": ["Before Gudarz he spoke with measured word,", "And told of Khosrow, all he saw and heard."]}, {"id": "C3.19.24", "lines": ["He spoke of royal kindness, wisdom, grace,", "Of bonds of love, of gifts that marked his place."]}, {"id": "C3.19.25", "lines": ["He told how Khosrow held his army dear,", "And how the message filled his heart with cheer."]}, {"id": "C3.19.26", "lines": ["Then Hajir gave the letter Khosrow penned,", "With noble greetings that the Shah would send."]}, {"id": "C3.19.27", "lines": ["Gudarz received it, pressed it to his eyes,", "Then touched it to his face with grateful cries."]}, {"id": "C3.19.28", "lines": ["He broke the seal and gave the opened scroll", "To one who read the royal message whole."]}, {"id": "C3.19.29", "lines": ["The chieftain blessed the Shah and kissed the ground,", "In homage to the charge the letter bound."]}, {"id": "C3.19.30", "lines": ["He spent the night in counsel with his son,", "Then sat with doors thrown wide when night was done."]}, {"id": "C3.19.31", "lines": ["The famous men throughout the army came,", "In helmets, each renowned by rank and name."]}, {"id": "C3.19.32", "lines": ["Hajir produced the glorious Shah’s command,", "And gave it to a scribe before the band."]}, {"id": "C3.19.33", "lines": ["The scribe read out the counsel sent that day,", "The Shah’s commands before the whole array."]}, {"id": "C3.19.34", "lines": ["Gudarz then called the paymasters to count", "The army’s rolls and pay the full amount."]}, {"id": "C3.19.35", "lines": ["From mountain pastures he brought every steed,", "The gathered herds to serve the army’s need."]}, {"id": "C3.19.36", "lines": ["His stores held swords, dinars, and girdles bright,", "Rich jowshan, golden helmets for the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.19.37", "lines": ["He gave the paymasters the keys that day;", "The hour for vengeance called them to the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.19.38", "lines": ["He poured much wealth among the gathered force,", "And armed the footmen and the men on horse."]}, {"id": "C3.19.39", "lines": ["An army like a mountain gathered, vast;", "The earth shook as their hoofbeats thundered past."]}, {"id": "C3.19.40", "lines": ["The hearts of lions quaked before that train,", "Where iron, gold, and silver lit the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.19.41", "lines": ["He bade them make their preparations clear,", "And turn to vengeance heart and eye and ear."]}, {"id": "C3.19.42", "lines": ["They marched by companies before their chief,", "Like mountains massed, their strength beyond belief."]}, {"id": "C3.19.43", "lines": ["He watched the troops; the earth was dark below,", "The sky above a lapis-colored glow."]}, {"id": "C3.19.44", "lines": ["He said: “Since Pashan’s battle, no array", "Has matched the force that stands in ranks today,"]}, {"id": "C3.19.45", "lines": ["With horses, arms, with silver and with gold,", "War elephants and warriors lion-bold."]}, {"id": "C3.19.46", "lines": ["If God, the World-Creator, aids us then,", "We ride to Chin before we turn again.”"]}, {"id": "C3.19.47", "lines": ["He took his seat and called the wise men near,", "And set the nobles down in joyful cheer."]}, {"id": "C3.19.48", "lines": ["He drank with easy heart and spirit bright,", "And with the heroes planned the coming fight."]}, {"id": "C3.20.1", "lines": ["To Piran came the news of Iran’s might,", "And how its chief had set his plans for fight."]}, {"id": "C3.20.2", "lines": ["His heart grew fearful; then he turned to guile,", "To seek escape through cunning, fraud, and wile."]}, {"id": "C3.20.3", "lines": ["He sought his wise adviser to prepare", "A path through all this vengeance and despair."]}, {"id": "C3.20.4", "lines": ["Then he called a practiced scribe to write", "Gudarz a plea for peace and end the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.20.5", "lines": ["First he praised God, the mighty refuge near,", "Who shelters all men from Divs and their fear."]}, {"id": "C3.20.6", "lines": ["Then he wrote: “In public and private prayer,", "I call upon the Ruler everywhere"]}, {"id": "C3.20.7", "lines": ["To end this long contention of our sides,", "And still the field where bloodshed now resides."]}, {"id": "C3.20.8", "lines": ["If you, Gudarz, have sought this war’s design,", "To fill the world with vengeance for your line,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.9", "lines": ["Your thirst is sated; you have gained your will.", "Consider now what end awaits you still."]}, {"id": "C3.20.10", "lines": ["See how my gallant kin lie torn apart,", "My nearest lions, each a noble heart."]}, {"id": "C3.20.11", "lines": ["You flung them headless where the dead were spread;", "Have you no fear of God above your head?"]}, {"id": "C3.20.12", "lines": ["From love and wisdom you have turned your face;", "Now that your will is gained, make room for grace."]}, {"id": "C3.20.13", "lines": ["Grow sick of vengeance; cease this bloody fight,", "And let no further slaughter stain the light."]}, {"id": "C3.20.14", "lines": ["Consider riders lost from Iran’s side,", "And those of brave Turan who fell in pride."]}, {"id": "C3.20.15", "lines": ["It is high time that pity rise in you,", "And mercy check what strife would make you do."]}, {"id": "C3.20.16", "lines": ["In seeking vengeance for one vanished breath,", "How many living men will you doom to death?"]}, {"id": "C3.20.17", "lines": ["What has gone by no effort can regain;", "Sow no fresh seeds of vengeance for the slain."]}, {"id": "C3.20.18", "lines": ["Do not consume your spirit with this strife;", "Turn back from bitterness and wasting life."]}, {"id": "C3.20.19", "lines": ["The dead are cursed who leave a lasting name", "For evil, blood, destruction, and dark fame."]}, {"id": "C3.20.20", "lines": ["When sable hair turns white upon the head,", "The hope of lengthy life has nearly fled."]}, {"id": "C3.20.21", "lines": ["I fear that if our armies clash in war,", "And fill this field again with battle’s roar,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.22", "lines": ["No man of either army will remain", "Alive upon this blood-contested plain."]}, {"id": "C3.20.23", "lines": ["Lives will be lost, but vengeance will endure;", "Which side will shine, which sink, no man is sure."]}, {"id": "C3.20.24", "lines": ["But if your fixed resolve demands more blood,", "And you would plunge like lions through the flood,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.25", "lines": ["If all this lion-like contention here", "Is for Iran, then make your purpose clear."]}, {"id": "C3.20.26", "lines": ["Speak: I shall send a rider, swift of steed,", "To seek Afrasiab’s counsel in our need,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.27", "lines": ["To seek Afrasiab’s leave and his command,", "So we may draw the borders of each land,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.28", "lines": ["And set this strife aside by ancient lore,", "As Manuchehr made peace in days before."]}, {"id": "C3.20.29", "lines": ["Declare what lands you claim for Iran’s throne,", "That we may move the Turks out from your own,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.30", "lines": ["From settled lands and ruined tracts of ground,", "Wherever righteous Khosrow sets the bound."]}, {"id": "C3.20.31", "lines": ["First, from Iran the boundary climbs the height", "Of Gharchagan, with Bost below in sight;"]}, {"id": "C3.20.32", "lines": ["Then Talikan to Fariyab shall stand,", "And Balkh to Andarab, within your hand;"]}, {"id": "C3.20.33", "lines": ["Then Panjhir, with the lands of Bamiyan,", "The Kayanian home and border of Iran."]}, {"id": "C3.20.34", "lines": ["The favored land of Guzganan I name,", "So called by him who rules the worldly frame."]}, {"id": "C3.20.35", "lines": ["From Balkh as far as bright Badakhshan’s height,", "Where signs of royal sway are brought to light,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.36", "lines": ["And lower still, the plains of Zam shall stand,", "With Amuy and Khatlan in your command."]}, {"id": "C3.20.37", "lines": ["Shingan and Tirmid, Visagard I yield,", "Bukhara and the towns around its field."]}, {"id": "C3.20.38", "lines": ["Go onward into Sughd; no hostile claim", "From any Turkish lord shall mar its name."]}, {"id": "C3.20.39", "lines": ["Where valiant Rostam turned his battle-rein,", "To him I yield the realm of Nimruz plain."]}, {"id": "C3.20.40", "lines": ["I shall recall my troops and clear the way,", "And open passage toward Bakhtar that day."]}, {"id": "C3.20.41", "lines": ["I shall withdraw as far as Hind’s domain;", "Let no dark feud within our souls remain."]}, {"id": "C3.20.42", "lines": ["Kashmir, Kabul, and Kandahar shall stand,", "With lands before the Sind, within his hand."]}, {"id": "C3.20.43", "lines": ["Where Lohrasp went to war, Alanons’ realm", "And all that region pass beneath his helm."]}, {"id": "C3.20.44", "lines": ["From all these lands to Kaf, no strife shall bar", "Khosrow’s possession, near at hand or far."]}, {"id": "C3.20.45", "lines": ["Where Ashkash marched, I likewise shall command", "My troops to leave the whole extent of land."]}, {"id": "C3.20.46", "lines": ["This done, I shall recall on every side", "My troops, and cast the former feud aside."]}, {"id": "C3.20.47", "lines": ["Before you I shall swear an oath and show", "That I shall stand no longer as your foe."]}, {"id": "C3.20.48", "lines": ["You then shall know that truth is what we claim,", "With love and faithfulness our constant aim."]}, {"id": "C3.20.49", "lines": ["I shall send word to Afrasiab’s throne,", "That we have ceased from strife and made it known."]}, {"id": "C3.20.50", "lines": ["You too should look with favor on our name,", "And write Khosrow, whose judgment rules our fame."]}, {"id": "C3.20.51", "lines": ["Tell him that I have offered you my peace,", "And wish our rivalry in blood to cease."]}, {"id": "C3.20.52", "lines": ["When covenant is sealed and peace is meant,", "The treasures Khosrow asked for shall be sent."]}, {"id": "C3.20.53", "lines": ["Perhaps he too will cease his martial course,", "And draw away from war his royal force."]}, {"id": "C3.20.54", "lines": ["Then I will send him hostages, and spare", "No goods of any sort, no treasures rare."]}, {"id": "C3.20.55", "lines": ["By treaty, just and solemn, firmly signed,", "The eye of feud shall be sewn shut and blind."]}, {"id": "C3.20.56", "lines": ["Good faith will close the wound once deeply torn,", "When Tur and savage Salm made nations mourn,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.57", "lines": ["When Fereydoon was torn by grief and pain,", "Because his noble Iraj had been slain."]}, {"id": "C3.20.58", "lines": ["Whatever else you need, speak plain and state,", "Then write the Shah and tell him of our fate."]}, {"id": "C3.20.59", "lines": ["Think not, because I speak with gentle speech,", "That fear or shame compels us to beseech."]}, {"id": "C3.20.60", "lines": ["I speak from love and seek, on every side,", "A peaceful end that puts all wrath aside."]}, {"id": "C3.20.61", "lines": ["My treasure and my men exceed your store;", "My name in valor has been honored more."]}, {"id": "C3.20.62", "lines": ["Yet this endless and godless tide of blood", "Has drowned my heart beneath its crimson flood."]}, {"id": "C3.20.63", "lines": ["I grieve for all the troops, and I would cease", "This feud and bring the fields again to peace."]}, {"id": "C3.20.64", "lines": ["Besides, I stand in awe of God Most High,", "In public and alone beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.20.65", "lines": ["The Judge approves no evil deed or wrong;", "We squander time in strife prolonged so long."]}, {"id": "C3.20.66", "lines": ["Now if you turn away from words I send,", "And seek a war that only death can end,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.67", "lines": ["Condemning me, though innocent I stand,", "And scorning every plea from heart and hand,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.68", "lines": ["Since right and wrong alike seem one to you,", "And you would drive this feud to battle through,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.69", "lines": ["Choose chiefs who wield the gorz, of Iran’s race,", "The men most worthy now to take their place."]}, {"id": "C3.20.70", "lines": ["And I shall choose from all my gathered might", "The warriors best equipped to meet the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.20.71", "lines": ["We two shall pair the champions from our men,", "And let the chiefs take up their arms again."]}, {"id": "C3.20.72", "lines": ["Then you and I shall meet upon that ground,", "And wheel in combat while our arms resound."]}, {"id": "C3.20.73", "lines": ["Perhaps the guiltless men who dread the fight", "Will rest, released from bloodshed and its blight."]}, {"id": "C3.20.74", "lines": ["Those whom you hold as guilty in your thought,", "Those who have grieved your heart, shall all be brought"]}, {"id": "C3.20.75", "lines": ["Before you on the chosen battle-day;", "But you must pledge yourself to what I say:"]}, {"id": "C3.20.76", "lines": ["If you prevail and shed our blood in fight,", "And Turkish fortune turns from us in flight,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.77", "lines": ["You shall not harm my troops or burn my throne,", "Nor put to flame the country that I own."]}, {"id": "C3.20.78", "lines": ["Give all my troops free passage from the fray,", "And set no ambush on their homeward way."]}, {"id": "C3.20.79", "lines": ["If I prevail, and my good star bears fruit,", "I shall not strike Iranians in pursuit."]}, {"id": "C3.20.80", "lines": ["I shall not lay an ambush for their band,", "Nor seek revenge, but let them reach their land."]}, {"id": "C3.20.81", "lines": ["I shall give passage back to Iran’s throne,", "And send each warrior safely to his own."]}, {"id": "C3.20.82", "lines": ["Not one among their number shall be lost;", "Their lives and goods shall bear no further cost."]}, {"id": "C3.20.83", "lines": ["If you refuse this manner of the fight,", "And seek another course to prove your might,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.84", "lines": ["If you would have both armies take the field,", "Bring your whole army; try to make us yield."]}, {"id": "C3.20.85", "lines": ["For all the blood this vengeance makes you shed,", "You answer in the world beyond the dead.”"]}, {"id": "C3.20.86", "lines": ["He tied the letter, then he called his son,", "A noble youth, the army’s trusted one."]}, {"id": "C3.20.87", "lines": ["His son, named Ruyin, led the gathered men,", "His iron strength renowned among them then."]}, {"id": "C3.20.88", "lines": ["He said, “Go now to old Gudarz and speak", "With wisdom; hear the answer that you seek.”"]}, {"id": "C3.20.89", "lines": ["Ruyin rode out from Piran’s gate in pride,", "And ten bold horsemen gathered at his side."]}, {"id": "C3.20.90", "lines": ["The prudent youth rode swiftly with his band,", "And reached the tent of Iran’s high command."]}, {"id": "C3.20.91", "lines": ["When Ruyin came to old Gudarz’s gate,", "A runner told the chief who stood in wait."]}, {"id": "C3.20.92", "lines": ["Gudarz then called the envoy to his side;", "The youth came through the curtain, eager-eyed."]}, {"id": "C3.20.93", "lines": ["He stood before Gudarz, his hands held tight", "Across his breast, and bowed within his sight."]}, {"id": "C3.20.94", "lines": ["The chief rose swiftly, clasped him to his breast,", "And held the youth close as an honored guest."]}, {"id": "C3.20.95", "lines": ["He asked of Piran, of his gathered band,", "His warriors, his monarch, and his land."]}, {"id": "C3.20.96", "lines": ["Then Ruyin gave the letter he had brought,", "And spoke the message just as he was taught."]}, {"id": "C3.20.97", "lines": ["A scribe came forward, read the letter through,", "And told Gudarz each word, exact and true."]}, {"id": "C3.20.98", "lines": ["When all the words had reached them, every chief", "And seasoned horseman stood in disbelief."]}, {"id": "C3.20.99", "lines": ["Such gentle speech, such counsel to unite,", "Such paths to friendship did the letter cite."]}, {"id": "C3.20.100", "lines": ["They marveled at what wise Piran had said,", "The kindly counsel in the words just read."]}, {"id": "C3.20.101", "lines": ["Gudarz then said to Ruyin, “Noble son,", "Your father’s pride, O young and fortunate one,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.102", "lines": ["First you must be our guest and take your ease;", "Then seek the answer when the time agrees.”"]}, {"id": "C3.20.103", "lines": ["They cleared a new pavilion for his stay,", "And furnished it in fitting royal array."]}, {"id": "C3.20.104", "lines": ["With Roman brocade all the tent was dressed;", "They called for food and music for the guest."]}, {"id": "C3.20.105", "lines": ["The youth grew troubled, wondering what reply", "The Pahlevan would give him by and by."]}, {"id": "C3.20.106", "lines": ["For one whole week Gudarz delayed his word,", "With harp and wine, and no reply was heard."]}, {"id": "C3.20.107", "lines": ["Each day, when from the height the shining sun", "Had turned and half its daily course was run,"]}, {"id": "C3.20.108", "lines": ["He called for wine and music to be played,", "And summoned Piran’s envoy where he stayed."]}, {"id": "C3.21.1", "lines": ["Upon the eighth day, at the dawn’s first light,", "Gudarz called in the scribe and bade him write."]}, {"id": "C3.21.2", "lines": ["The scribe began; with every stroke he drew,", "A tree of vengeance in the answer grew."]}, {"id": "C3.21.3", "lines": ["He first gave praise to God, then turned to state", "His answer to each point of their debate."]}, {"id": "C3.21.4", "lines": ["“Your letter I have read from end to end,", "And heard each word that you have wished to send."]}, {"id": "C3.21.5", "lines": ["And Ruyin brought your message to my side,", "Each matter that you charged him to confide."]}, {"id": "C3.21.6", "lines": ["I marvel that you write such gracious things,", "And at the honeyed words your letter brings."]}, {"id": "C3.21.7", "lines": ["Your heart and tongue are neighbors far apart;", "Your soul has gained no wisdom for its part."]}, {"id": "C3.21.8", "lines": ["In every matter you speak fair and wise,", "With phrases rich in grace before men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "C3.21.9", "lines": ["Whoever lacks true wisdom might believe", "Your goodwill and the web your words can weave."]}, {"id": "C3.21.10", "lines": ["You are like salt ground glittering in the sun,", "That seems like water to a distant one."]}, {"id": "C3.21.11", "lines": ["But lies and tricks avail no warrior’s hand,", "When gorz and sword and kamand fill the land."]}, {"id": "C3.21.12", "lines": ["I want no dealings now but war with you;", "This is no hour for parleys to renew."]}, {"id": "C3.21.13", "lines": ["No time for league, for love, or painted speech,", "But time to learn what heaven’s signs will teach."]}, {"id": "C3.21.14", "lines": ["We watch to whom God grants the conquering sun,", "And strength and fortune when the fight is done."]}, {"id": "C3.21.15", "lines": ["Still hear me now, and let wise counsel guide;", "Let wisdom lead good fortune at your side."]}, {"id": "C3.21.16", "lines": ["First, you have said: ‘Through kindness and through fear", "Of God and resurrection drawing near,"]}, {"id": "C3.21.17", "lines": ["I do not wish to stir this bitter fight;", "My heart is cramped by all this wrongful plight.’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.18", "lines": ["Your tongue and heart were never joined as one,", "Though honeyed phrases from your mouth have run."]}, {"id": "C3.21.19", "lines": ["If justice had possessed your heart and breath,", "You would not first have led the road to death."]}, {"id": "C3.21.20", "lines": ["When Giv first came with nobles, grave and wise,", "And laid his peaceful counsel before your eyes,"]}, {"id": "C3.21.21", "lines": ["With prudent words and honorable speech,", "You raised war’s iron wall beyond their reach."]}, {"id": "C3.21.22", "lines": ["You armed your army for this bitter fight,", "And left your land to violate our right."]}, {"id": "C3.21.23", "lines": ["In every clash, aggression was your will;", "You moved your troops, intent on bloodshed still."]}, {"id": "C3.21.24", "lines": ["Had wisdom come before you took this way,", "You would have found more peace at last today."]}, {"id": "C3.21.25", "lines": ["Your evil nature, bent on crooked gain,", "Has driven you from wisdom’s level plain."]}, {"id": "C3.21.26", "lines": ["The nature of your race was formed in guile,", "And treachery has marked it all the while."]}, {"id": "C3.21.27", "lines": ["You know how high-born Iraj met his doom,", "When Tur envied his crown and royal room."]}, {"id": "C3.21.28", "lines": ["You know what evil Tur and Salm began,", "And how injustice spread through every clan."]}, {"id": "C3.21.29", "lines": ["You know how vengeance spread through field and throne,", "And grief made Fereydoon’s long anguish known."]}, {"id": "C3.21.30", "lines": ["He cursed them ceaselessly with wounded breath,", "His heart laid open by his loved son’s death."]}, {"id": "C3.21.31", "lines": ["The Giver’s aid sustained him day by day;", "He nursed that vengeance, would not turn away."]}, {"id": "C3.21.32", "lines": ["Long ages passed; that foul inherited strain", "Reached Afrasiab through a lawless chain."]}, {"id": "C3.21.33", "lines": ["He sought revenge on Manuchehr, made war", "On Nohzar, Kay Qobad, and Iran’s shore."]}, {"id": "C3.21.34", "lines": ["You know what wrong he did to Kavus’s crown,", "And how he ground our prosperous Iran down."]}, {"id": "C3.21.35", "lines": ["At last, with guiltless Siavash’s blood,", "He laid new feud’s foundation in a flood."]}, {"id": "C3.21.36", "lines": ["You had no thought of justice on that day,", "When blameless Siavash gave life away."]}, {"id": "C3.21.37", "lines": ["How many chiefs of Iran, crowned with state,", "Have fallen in this feud through Turkish hate."]}, {"id": "C3.21.38", "lines": ["You next have said: ‘Old man with whitening hair,", "How long will you stay armed, your blade laid bare?’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.39", "lines": ["Know this, old deceiver, tried by time,", "Who saw life’s rise and fall through every crime:"]}, {"id": "C3.21.40", "lines": ["God gave me length of days and fortune bright,", "That I might avenge Iran in open fight."]}, {"id": "C3.21.41", "lines": ["I mean to send the dust from Turan high,", "Until its cloud ascends toward the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.21.42", "lines": ["My only fear is God may end my breath,", "And part my soul and body through my death,"]}, {"id": "C3.21.43", "lines": ["Before I win the vengeance I have planned,", "And set my feet upon your conquered land."]}, {"id": "C3.21.44", "lines": ["You thirdly say: ‘I see no holy awe", "Of God in you, no reverence for His law.’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.45", "lines": ["Do you not know that wanton blood will turn", "Against the man who lets destruction burn?"]}, {"id": "C3.21.46", "lines": ["If gentle words should make me quit the fight,", "And turn me from the vengeance that is right,"]}, {"id": "C3.21.47", "lines": ["God would inquire how I had spent my days,", "And ask me to account for all my ways:"]}, {"id": "C3.21.48", "lines": ["‘I gave you leadership and strength to stand,", "With wisdom, wealth, and valor at command."]}, {"id": "C3.21.49", "lines": ["Why did you fail before Iran’s array", "To arm for Siavash and make foes pay?’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.50", "lines": ["And when the Judge asks of my seventy sons,", "Those noble lives cut off like setting suns,"]}, {"id": "C3.21.51", "lines": ["How shall I answer Him who made the world,", "If fear or charm had kept my banner furled?"]}, {"id": "C3.21.52", "lines": ["The fourth point that you raised, O aged chief,", "Was Siavash, the source of all this grief."]}, {"id": "C3.21.53", "lines": ["You said: ‘For one whose body turns to clay,", "You should not take the living soul away.’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.54", "lines": ["Remember all the foul deeds you have done,", "And griefs that darkened Iran’s royal sun."]}, {"id": "C3.21.55", "lines": ["Remember wrongs you wrought throughout our land,", "And monarchs ruined by Turan’s command."]}, {"id": "C3.21.56", "lines": ["What treaties you have broken, feuds begun,", "What paths toward evil you have always run."]}, {"id": "C3.21.57", "lines": ["How can I think of this and grant release,", "When all your faithless deeds have murdered peace?"]}, {"id": "C3.21.58", "lines": ["Fifth, you say: ‘I shall covenant with you;", "The chiefs of Turan shall be hostages too."]}, {"id": "C3.21.59", "lines": ["I shall send Khosrow wealth and end this toil,", "And close the road to suffering on our soil.’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.60", "lines": ["Know then, sepahbod of the Turkish land,", "Our Shah has given us a different command."]}, {"id": "C3.21.61", "lines": ["He ordered me to grapple to the death", "And shed your blood for Siavash’s last breath."]}, {"id": "C3.21.62", "lines": ["If I refuse to do as Khosrow bade,", "My soul before its Maker stands dismayed."]}, {"id": "C3.21.63", "lines": ["If you still hope Khosrow will turn to peace,", "And through these words bid all his anger cease,"]}, {"id": "C3.21.64", "lines": ["Send all the wealth and hostages you name,", "With Lahhak and with Ruyin of your fame."]}, {"id": "C3.21.65", "lines": ["Send them at once to Khosrow; let them ride", "To Iran, where the road stands open wide."]}, {"id": "C3.21.66", "lines": ["Sixth, you have named Iran’s fair towns and lands,", "Its prosperous realm, to pass into our hands."]}, {"id": "C3.21.67", "lines": ["You said: ‘To Khosrow I shall yield them all,", "And all my scattered troops I shall recall.’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.68", "lines": ["But God has seized them first; and if you know", "No word of this, the truth I now shall show."]}, {"id": "C3.21.69", "lines": ["Lohrasp has taken all the western side,", "As far as Khazar’s marches spreading wide."]}, {"id": "C3.21.70", "lines": ["Southward to Sind, the whole realm is arrayed", "In gleaming iron like a polished blade."]}, {"id": "C3.21.71", "lines": ["Brave Rostam, with his sharp and trenchant sword,", "Has raised a day of doom on every horde."]}, {"id": "C3.21.72", "lines": ["Rostam sent Hind’s chief to the Shah that day,", "His sable standard borne along the way."]}, {"id": "C3.21.73", "lines": ["In Dehestan, Khwarazm, and all that ground", "Where Turkish raiders raised their heads around,"]}, {"id": "C3.21.74", "lines": ["The desert has been cleared of all their band;", "Our troops now ride on toward Bakhtar’s land."]}, {"id": "C3.21.75", "lines": ["Ashkash rained hail on Shideh in the fight,", "And brought him near to death beneath his might."]}, {"id": "C3.21.76", "lines": ["He sent Khosrow the captives and the spoil,", "And purged the region of its war and toil."]}, {"id": "C3.21.77", "lines": ["Now here the contest lies between us two,", "Where honor or disgrace awaits our view."]}, {"id": "C3.21.78", "lines": ["In battle you have seen the strength they show,", "Those famous chiefs whose prowess well you know."]}, {"id": "C3.21.79", "lines": ["Come meet me face to face, and you shall see:", "I shall release you from this talk with me."]}, {"id": "C3.21.80", "lines": ["By God’s own power and the Shah’s command,", "I shall sink this whole field in blood and sand."]}, {"id": "C3.21.81", "lines": ["Observe, famed captain of the Turkish side,", "The sun and moon beneath which hopes have died."]}, {"id": "C3.21.82", "lines": ["Heaven has nearly bound you fast and bare;", "Your fortune’s head is set within the snare."]}, {"id": "C3.21.83", "lines": ["Mark what the Maker lays upon your head", "For evil deeds and all the blood you shed."]}, {"id": "C3.21.84", "lines": ["Time has revealed your crimes beneath the sky,", "And evil now repays each former lie."]}, {"id": "C3.21.85", "lines": ["Be heedful now; open your ears and learn", "What wise men say before the seasons turn."]}, {"id": "C3.21.86", "lines": ["These famous ranks, a hundred thousand strong,", "Will not be charmed from vengeance for your wrong."]}, {"id": "C3.21.87", "lines": ["They all seek honor, vengeance, war’s red field,", "And no sweet phrase can make their purpose yield."]}, {"id": "C3.21.88", "lines": ["I reach the seventh point: by oath you try", "To prove your truth beneath the watchful sky."]}, {"id": "C3.21.89", "lines": ["I will not speak of further bonds with you;", "Your soul will buy no wisdom, old or new."]}, {"id": "C3.21.90", "lines": ["For every man with whom you swear in trust", "Will find you break that faith and turn it dust."]}, {"id": "C3.21.91", "lines": ["Your oath brought Siavash to grief and death;", "Let no man trust the promise of your breath."]}, {"id": "C3.21.92", "lines": ["You did not save him on his evil day,", "Though in distress he called you every way."]}, {"id": "C3.21.93", "lines": ["The eighth point: you have said, ‘My crown and throne,", "My fortune, troops, and valor top your own."]}, {"id": "C3.21.94", "lines": ["I hold more treasure, men, and warlike fame,", "Yet love torments my heart despite my claim.’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.95", "lines": ["I think you tested me in war before;", "You know whether I failed when battles tore."]}, {"id": "C3.21.96", "lines": ["Look once again, and judge me from the start,", "In every skill and in the warrior’s art."]}, {"id": "C3.21.97", "lines": ["In treasure, fortune, crown and throne, compare;", "Perhaps I stand above you everywhere."]}, {"id": "C3.21.98", "lines": ["And lastly you have said: ‘Choose men to fight,", "A few brave champions, proven in their might."]}, {"id": "C3.21.99", "lines": ["I too will choose from Turan’s mounted men", "The warriors fit to face your champions then."]}, {"id": "C3.21.100", "lines": ["From tenderness toward troops I do not seek", "To spread revenge against the worn and weak.’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.101", "lines": ["You put compassion forward as your plea;", "Your hidden heart and purpose you can see."]}, {"id": "C3.21.102", "lines": ["The Shah, the ruler of the world, would blame", "My act, if I withdrew our troops in shame."]}, {"id": "C3.21.103", "lines": ["You also asked that I should meet you here,", "And face you on this plain with sword and spear."]}, {"id": "C3.21.104", "lines": ["Before me stands a guilty force in arms,", "That filled Iran with grief and war’s alarms."]}, {"id": "C3.21.105", "lines": ["The Shah will never let me shun the fight,", "Or turn from vengeance when our cause is right."]}, {"id": "C3.21.106", "lines": ["First, let our armies meet upon this ground,", "Like mountains crashing with a mighty sound."]}, {"id": "C3.21.107", "lines": ["Let both our armies form their ranks and strive;", "Perhaps we then shall see which side will thrive."]}, {"id": "C3.21.108", "lines": ["If not, we bring those champions to the field,", "And make a place where prowess is revealed."]}, {"id": "C3.21.109", "lines": ["My word shall stand, though yours may break in two;", "I know how little oaths have meant to you."]}, {"id": "C3.21.110", "lines": ["But if your present force cannot withstand", "My men, then ask your king for a stronger band."]}, {"id": "C3.21.111", "lines": ["Consider carefully your state and need,", "And weigh the course by which you would proceed."]}, {"id": "C3.21.112", "lines": ["As for the wounded absent from the ranks,", "Among your kin, allies, and warrior flanks,"]}, {"id": "C3.21.113", "lines": ["Wait till the healers make them whole and strong;", "A brief delay need not detain you long."]}, {"id": "C3.21.114", "lines": ["If you wish for delay and time to heal,", "Then speak it plainly; otherwise, draw steel."]}, {"id": "C3.21.115", "lines": ["I offer this so, on the battle-day,", "You cannot find excuse enough to say:"]}, {"id": "C3.21.116", "lines": ["‘You fell upon us suddenly and pressed;", "You ambushed us and gave no time to rest.’"]}, {"id": "C3.21.117", "lines": ["If I seek vengeance for a hundred years,", "Or now at once, the same resolve appears."]}, {"id": "C3.21.118", "lines": ["There is no hope that I shall quit the fight;", "For sightless eyes, alike are day and night.”"]}, {"id": "C3.21.119", "lines": ["When that reply was finished and made clear,", "The fairy-faced young envoy then drew near."]}, {"id": "C3.21.120", "lines": ["His belt secured, he rode his rapid steed,", "With mounted men around him, fit for deed."]}, {"id": "C3.21.121", "lines": ["Then Ruyin left his saddle on the plain,", "And brought before Gudarz his mounted train."]}, {"id": "C3.21.122", "lines": ["Gudarz then called the Mobadan to hear,", "And courtly sages gathered quickly near."]}, {"id": "C3.21.123", "lines": ["Wise men and shrewd came swiftly to his side,", "With clear and ready minds to hear and guide."]}, {"id": "C3.21.124", "lines": ["Before the chiefs, Gudarz then gave the word:", "“Let all the answer I have written be heard.”"]}, {"id": "C3.21.125", "lines": ["The great men heard the cogent answer read,", "Recited by the scribe, as custom led."]}, {"id": "C3.21.126", "lines": ["They judged the wisdom of Piran as slight,", "And held his offered counsel thin and light."]}, {"id": "C3.21.127", "lines": ["They praised Gudarz and hailed his honored name,", "The chosen Pahlevan of deathless fame."]}, {"id": "C3.21.128", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, gave it to the son", "Of Piran, sprung from Viseh, honored one."]}, {"id": "C3.21.129", "lines": ["When Ruyin rose to go, he bade them bring", "A robe of honor fitting for a king."]}, {"id": "C3.21.130", "lines": ["Arab steeds with golden trappings came,", "With crowns and swords in golden sheaths aflame."]}, {"id": "C3.21.131", "lines": ["His comrades too received both silver bright", "And gold, with caps and belts as each had right."]}, {"id": "C3.21.132", "lines": ["Then Ruyin mounted on his rapid horse,", "And led his escort back toward Piran’s force."]}, {"id": "C3.21.133", "lines": ["When Ruyin reached his father’s camp, his band", "Went with him to the chief who held command."]}, {"id": "C3.21.134", "lines": ["He bowed before the throne with lowered face;", "Piran received him in a close embrace."]}, {"id": "C3.21.135", "lines": ["He gave Iran’s sepahbod’s words their due,", "And told of all the army in his view."]}, {"id": "C3.21.136", "lines": ["A scribe read out the letter, word by word;", "Piran’s heart blackened at the news he heard."]}, {"id": "C3.21.137", "lines": ["His heart was full of pain, his soul of fear;", "He knew a harsh descent was drawing near."]}, {"id": "C3.21.138", "lines": ["He chose restraint and silence in that hour,", "And hid the message from his gathered power."]}, {"id": "C3.21.139", "lines": ["Then to the troops he said: “Gudarz will yield", "No change of heart, no peace upon this field."]}, {"id": "C3.21.140", "lines": ["For all the blood of seventy sons once dear,", "His heart will find no rest from vengeance here."]}, {"id": "C3.21.141", "lines": ["If he, recalling what has passed away,", "Renews this ancient hatred day by day,"]}, {"id": "C3.21.142", "lines": ["Why should I not gird on my arms to fight,", "Avenging my lost brothers with my might?"]}, {"id": "C3.21.143", "lines": ["And for nine hundred chiefs whose blood was shed,", "Whose bodies in the battle lost each head?"]}, {"id": "C3.21.144", "lines": ["In all the lands of Turan none can ride", "To war like Houman, with his strength and pride."]}, {"id": "C3.21.145", "lines": ["And Nastihan, that cypress spreading shade,", "Who vanished from the ranks where warriors stayed."]}, {"id": "C3.21.146", "lines": ["Now we must gird for battle, sword in hand;", "I shall not leave the Iranians our land."]}, {"id": "C3.21.147", "lines": ["By God’s great power, my sword shall end their might,", "And raise the Day of Doom before their sight.”"]}, {"id": "C3.21.148", "lines": ["He chose the fitting horses from his herds,", "And brought them to the troops to match his words."]}, {"id": "C3.21.149", "lines": ["He mounted all the footmen for the fray,", "And gave each rider two steeds on that day."]}, {"id": "C3.21.150", "lines": ["He opened up the doors of ancient stores,", "And gave dinars and wealth in lavish scores."]}, {"id": "C3.22.1", "lines": ["When this was done, near sleep’s appointed hour,", "Piran sent forth a man of trusted power."]}, {"id": "C3.22.2", "lines": ["He was an elder, eloquent and wise,", "A warrior-scribe, with counsel in his eyes."]}, {"id": "C3.22.3", "lines": ["He said, “Go to the King of Turan; say:", "‘O righteous king beneath the crown’s bright ray,"]}, {"id": "C3.22.4", "lines": ["Since first the turning heaven arched on high,", "Above earth’s dust beneath the darkened sky,"]}, {"id": "C3.22.5", "lines": ["No king like you has sat upon the throne;", "No royal name has been so widely known."]}, {"id": "C3.22.6", "lines": ["No other man is worthy of the state,", "The crown and girdle of auspicious fate."]}, {"id": "C3.22.7", "lines": ["The Ruler of the world will grind to dust", "All those who meet your battle and your thrust."]}, {"id": "C3.22.8", "lines": ["I am your slave, and guilty in your sight,", "Because I failed to heed your counsel right."]}, {"id": "C3.22.9", "lines": ["Through Kay Khosrow I earned your anger’s flame;", "I know no other fault against my name."]}, {"id": "C3.22.10", "lines": ["God willed what passed; what has been done is done;", "From lengthy speech no benefit is won."]}, {"id": "C3.22.11", "lines": ["If still the Shah will hear his servant’s plea,", "Let him forgive, and find a place for me."]}, {"id": "C3.22.12", "lines": ["Now I send news of how the turning sky", "Has dealt with me beneath its watchful eye."]}, {"id": "C3.22.13", "lines": ["I led my army up to Kanabad’s height,", "And checked Iran’s advance before the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.22.14", "lines": ["Upon their side a mighty army came,", "With great Gudarz and chiefs of lordly fame."]}, {"id": "C3.22.15", "lines": ["Since Manuchehr was Shah, no greater band", "Had marched from Iran toward Turan’s land."]}, {"id": "C3.22.16", "lines": ["They took their place on Raibad’s mountain height,", "And there our armies faced in guarded might."]}, {"id": "C3.22.17", "lines": ["Three days and nights, like leopards held at bay,", "The facing camps stood ready for the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.22.18", "lines": ["We did not strike; we waited on the field,", "In hope the mountains’ shelter they would yield."]}, {"id": "C3.22.19", "lines": ["Their army would not leave that guarded height;", "Our chieftains’ fortune darkened at the sight."]}, {"id": "C3.22.20", "lines": ["Gudarz held tireless to his chosen ground,", "And kept his mountain fastness guarded round."]}, {"id": "C3.22.21", "lines": ["Then Houman, my world-conquering brother, burned", "To seek the fight, and from our army turned."]}, {"id": "C3.22.22", "lines": ["He went to challenge chiefs of Iran’s line;", "What met that lion there, I cannot divine."]}, {"id": "C3.22.23", "lines": ["The son of Giv rode out to take his stand,", "And fought with noble Houman, hand to hand."]}, {"id": "C3.22.24", "lines": ["By one like Bijan was my brother slain;", "My head reeled with the burden of that pain."]}, {"id": "C3.22.25", "lines": ["Whoever saw a lofty cypress fall", "Before one blade of grass, so weak and small?"]}, {"id": "C3.22.26", "lines": ["That death broke every great man’s heart in two,", "And grief destroyed the joy our warriors knew."]}, {"id": "C3.22.27", "lines": ["Then Nastihan, renowned throughout the land,", "With ten full thousand horsemen in his band,"]}, {"id": "C3.22.28", "lines": ["Departed from my side at break of day;", "Bijan struck off his head within the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.22.29", "lines": ["With grieving heart, I led our troops afield,", "And met the foe with battle-cry and shield."]}, {"id": "C3.22.30", "lines": ["We fought in force until night climbed the hill,", "And iron rang while both sides battled still."]}, {"id": "C3.22.31", "lines": ["Nine hundred of the king’s best men lay dead,", "Each body parted from its severed head."]}, {"id": "C3.22.32", "lines": ["Two-thirds of all these warriors bore the stain", "Of sword-wounds, with their hearts worn down by pain."]}, {"id": "C3.22.33", "lines": ["The Iranians gained the upper hand in fight;", "For vengeance, all had drawn their girdles tight."]}, {"id": "C3.22.34", "lines": ["I fear the turning sky, from this dark day,", "Will wholly draw its favor from our way."]}, {"id": "C3.22.35", "lines": ["Since then worse news has reached my troubled ear,", "And left me stunned with fresh distress and fear:"]}, {"id": "C3.22.36", "lines": ["Khosrow comes armed with all his force, they say,", "To strengthen our opponent in the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.22.37", "lines": ["If this report is true, and Khosrow’s train", "Is coming here to cross our battle-plain,"]}, {"id": "C3.22.38", "lines": ["My king must know: I cannot take my band", "To face him and against his forces stand,"]}, {"id": "C3.22.39", "lines": ["Unless the king, with troops prepared to fight,", "Turns toward Iran to meet their growing might."]}, {"id": "C3.22.40", "lines": ["Gird on your belt for vengeance; lead your men,", "And turn this evil from Turan again."]}, {"id": "C3.22.41", "lines": ["For if we perish by Iranian hands,", "Who will avenge our blood in Turan’s lands?’”"]}, {"id": "C3.22.42", "lines": ["The envoy heard what Piran had to say,", "And hurried like the wind upon his way."]}, {"id": "C3.22.43", "lines": ["He mounted on a hiyun, swift and tall,", "Like fire that races at the wind’s fierce call."]}, {"id": "C3.22.44", "lines": ["He rode to Afrasiab, through the night,", "Nor paused for breath or sleep along his flight."]}, {"id": "C3.22.45", "lines": ["He reached the king when all his road was spent,", "Kissed first the throne, then spoke what Piran sent."]}, {"id": "C3.22.46", "lines": ["The monarch heard Piran’s dark news with pain;", "His face grew yellow, grief filled every vein."]}, {"id": "C3.22.47", "lines": ["He mourned the slain, his army put to flight,", "His ruined country and its bitter plight."]}, {"id": "C3.22.48", "lines": ["On every side fierce leopards stretched their claws;", "His world grew dark and narrow in their jaws."]}, {"id": "C3.22.49", "lines": ["Yet from the words that Piran sent that day,", "He saw the troops still held their firm array."]}, {"id": "C3.22.50", "lines": ["He praised him, took fresh joy, and found his heart", "Illumined, as the shadows drew apart."]}, {"id": "C3.22.51", "lines": ["He lodged the envoy near him for the night,", "And weighed his counsel till the morning light."]}, {"id": "C3.22.52", "lines": ["At dawn, crowned for the business of the day,", "He called the envoy, ready now to say."]}, {"id": "C3.23.1", "lines": ["The monarch bade the messenger return,", "To brave Piran, whose counsels brightly burn."]}, {"id": "C3.23.2", "lines": ["He sent reply: “O kindly chief and true,", "A faithful heart speaks plainly through all you do."]}, {"id": "C3.23.3", "lines": ["Since first your noble mother gave you birth,", "Each gathering has honored you for worth."]}, {"id": "C3.23.4", "lines": ["You stand first with me, ranked above the rest,", "Above the Pahlevans my realm has blessed."]}, {"id": "C3.23.5", "lines": ["Your body is the jowshan round my own;", "Your life, a shield before my royal throne."]}, {"id": "C3.23.6", "lines": ["In every task you choose hard toil for me,", "And spend your wealth to keep my kingdom free."]}, {"id": "C3.23.7", "lines": ["You lead my armies out from Chin to fight", "Against Iran, and plunge its hopes in night."]}, {"id": "C3.23.8", "lines": ["You are earth’s foremost prince and Pahlevan;", "A thousand blessings crown you in Turan."]}, {"id": "C3.23.9", "lines": ["Since Tur and Pashang, heaven’s turning blue", "Has raised no other Pahlevan like you."]}, {"id": "C3.23.10", "lines": ["No army sees a sepahbod so wise,", "Nor one so keen to gird himself and rise."]}, {"id": "C3.23.11", "lines": ["First, you have said: ‘Before the gathered band,", "I count myself at fault for what I planned."]}, {"id": "C3.23.12", "lines": ["For Khosrow left Turan for Iran’s throne,", "And there the seed of this great feud was sown.’"]}, {"id": "C3.23.13", "lines": ["You know that I, the king, am not aggrieved,", "Nor has my heart that charge or grief received."]}, {"id": "C3.23.14", "lines": ["So do not let this burden cloud your mind;", "Such care will leave the rust of grief behind."]}, {"id": "C3.23.15", "lines": ["What came to pass was God’s appointed will;", "No mortal taught another to do ill."]}, {"id": "C3.23.16", "lines": ["Khosrow derives no royal light from me;", "To call him grandson is a false decree."]}, {"id": "C3.23.17", "lines": ["Nor will I call myself grandfather now;", "No gold can come from kinship I disavow."]}, {"id": "C3.23.18", "lines": ["In this affair, no mortal bears the blame;", "I do not strive with Him from whom it came."]}, {"id": "C3.23.19", "lines": ["What happened passed according to His will;", "Why should my heart take grief against you still?"]}, {"id": "C3.23.20", "lines": ["And secondly, you spoke of armies’ plight,", "Of sun and moon grown dark before your sight."]}, {"id": "C3.23.21", "lines": ["In warfare, darkening dust will always rise;", "It turns from side to side beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "C3.23.22", "lines": ["It raises men to sunlit heights of fame,", "Then casts them down to dust and bitter shame."]}, {"id": "C3.23.23", "lines": ["Yet heaven’s favor does not always stay;", "It gives men grief, then clears the clouds away."]}, {"id": "C3.23.24", "lines": ["Now wine and music fill a man with cheer;", "Now sorrow brings him grief and hardship here."]}, {"id": "C3.23.25", "lines": ["Do not let grief within your spirit burn;", "Nor bind your soul as heaven’s circles turn."]}, {"id": "C3.23.26", "lines": ["To speak about the slain is but a dream;", "Keep vengeance for your brother as your theme."]}, {"id": "C3.23.27", "lines": ["The heart in anguish for a brother lost", "Is cured by neither healer, care, nor cost."]}, {"id": "C3.23.28", "lines": ["You thirdly say: ‘Khosrow has left his throne,", "And marches with an army all his own.’"]}, {"id": "C3.23.29", "lines": ["The tidings that have reached you are untrue:", "Khosrow is not advancing now on you."]}, {"id": "C3.23.30", "lines": ["It is Tus, sepahbod of troops, instead,", "Who marches now where Dehestan lies spread."]}, {"id": "C3.23.31", "lines": ["May no man see the day he takes the lead,", "And strikes before I can perform my deed."]}, {"id": "C3.23.32", "lines": ["At dawn I mean to lead my force away,", "Across Jihun to meet them in array."]}, {"id": "C3.23.33", "lines": ["I shall spare neither Gudarz, Tus, nor crown,", "Nor Khosrow; throne and buq and koust go down."]}, {"id": "C3.23.34", "lines": ["So will I strike Iran that none shall see", "The Shah’s throne standing where it used to be."]}, {"id": "C3.23.35", "lines": ["I will not leave the world to Kay Khosrow;", "I shall take him unaware with sudden blow."]}, {"id": "C3.23.36", "lines": ["My khanjar shall cut off his head that day;", "His grieving mother’s soul shall waste away."]}, {"id": "C3.23.37", "lines": ["Unless the turning sky should bring to light", "Some different outcome in the coming fight."]}, {"id": "C3.23.38", "lines": ["O noble veteran, God has granted all;", "You lack no strength for battle’s urgent call."]}, {"id": "C3.23.39", "lines": ["All that you wish is yours: treasure and men,", "And power of heart and hand renewed again."]}, {"id": "C3.23.40", "lines": ["Full thirty thousand horsemen now shall ride,", "Intrepid, shrewd, and gallant at your side."]}, {"id": "C3.23.41", "lines": ["I send them now, fresh strength to see you through,", "And clear the grief that darkened all your view."]}, {"id": "C3.23.42", "lines": ["Ten men of Iran would look small and slight,", "Beside one horseman of this chosen might."]}, {"id": "C3.23.43", "lines": ["When they arrive, delay not by a day;", "Cut off Gudarz’s head and crown away."]}, {"id": "C3.23.44", "lines": ["The mountain that he holds as his redoubt,", "Bring down with charging horses; root him out."]}, {"id": "C3.23.45", "lines": ["When victory is yours and foes lie cast,", "Do not restrain the sword; strike hard and fast.”"]}, {"id": "C3.23.46", "lines": ["The envoy heard the monarch’s fierce command,", "Then rode to Piran through Turanian land."]}, {"id": "C3.23.47", "lines": ["Piran called all the troops before his throne;", "The messenger made all the message known."]}, {"id": "C3.23.48", "lines": ["Those words gave heart to all the gathered men,", "And freed them from the grief they feared till then."]}, {"id": "C3.23.49", "lines": ["Yet inwardly Piran was filled with dread;", "His fortune turned, his heart with sorrow bled."]}, {"id": "C3.23.50", "lines": ["On every side, amid the battle’s din,", "He saw the monarch’s armies wearing thin."]}, {"id": "C3.23.51", "lines": ["The thought of Iran’s Shah increased his fear:", "Khosrow might come at once and meet him here."]}, {"id": "C3.23.52", "lines": ["He prayed: “O You, all-powerful and high,", "What marvels pass beneath the turning sky!"]}, {"id": "C3.23.53", "lines": ["The man You raise no power can overthrow;", "No fall can claim him while You will it so."]}, {"id": "C3.23.54", "lines": ["Except for You, no ruler holds command,", "No lasting sovereign governs sea or land."]}, {"id": "C3.23.55", "lines": ["Look now at Khosrow: who but God could know", "That he would rise a king from grief below?"]}, {"id": "C3.23.56", "lines": ["Behold how turning fortune grants its share", "To one it chooses for its special care."]}, {"id": "C3.23.57", "lines": ["From withered thorns it brings fresh roses bright,", "And dust turns musk when fortune grants its light."]}, {"id": "C3.23.58", "lines": ["Yet stranger still, a man, through greed and gain,", "Will keep his own heart endlessly in pain."]}, {"id": "C3.23.59", "lines": ["A grandfather and grandson hold the throne;", "Why must this field for such a feud be known?"]}, {"id": "C3.23.60", "lines": ["With monarchs of two realms set face to face,", "And serried armies waiting in one place,"]}, {"id": "C3.23.61", "lines": ["How can I know the issue of this fight,", "Or where the wheel of fortune turns its light?”"]}, {"id": "C3.23.62", "lines": ["He thought: “If Afrasiab should be killed,", "With all Turan’s famed chiefs, the battle-skilled,"]}, {"id": "C3.23.63", "lines": ["If they are doomed to perish in the fray,", "And all our fortune’s promise turns away—”"]}, {"id": "C3.23.64", "lines": ["Then bitterly he wailed: “O Judge on high,", "O radiant Maker, hear my grieving cry."]}, {"id": "C3.23.65", "lines": ["When Khosrow comes from Iran to this plain,", "And all the earth falls under his domain,"]}, {"id": "C3.23.66", "lines": ["Then let the Maker take my soul away,", "My body in its jowshan torn that day."]}, {"id": "C3.23.67", "lines": ["May these world-seeing eyes not live to see", "Another take my place and ways from me."]}, {"id": "C3.23.68", "lines": ["To one whose fortune thwarts his every breath,", "No difference lies between his life and death.”"]}, {"id": "C3.24.1", "lines": ["When morning spread its golden brocade wide,", "The sea of battle heaved from side to side."]}, {"id": "C3.24.2", "lines": ["A war-cry rose from both assembled sides,", "And hoofbeats shook the plain in thunderous tides."]}, {"id": "C3.24.3", "lines": ["On every side the troops in jowshans rolled,", "Till hills and plains were hidden, fold by fold."]}, {"id": "C3.24.4", "lines": ["Both chieftains, leopard-like, drew up their might,", "And mustered all their powers for the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.24.5", "lines": ["The arrows showered like rain from darkened cloud,", "And all the world was wrapped in battle’s shroud."]}, {"id": "C3.24.6", "lines": ["It seemed a cloud-dark night of murk and gloom,", "Its rain was shafts and flashing blades of doom."]}, {"id": "C3.24.7", "lines": ["The earth was iron with the horses’ tread,", "The warriors’ hands shone ruby-bright and red."]}, {"id": "C3.24.8", "lines": ["So many headless bodies filled the field,", "There was no room to turn, no path to yield."]}, {"id": "C3.24.9", "lines": ["No passage for the horses’ feet remained;", "The earth was tulip-hued where blood had stained."]}, {"id": "C3.24.10", "lines": ["The air was indigo, the plain blood-red,", "And waves ran high across that sea of dead."]}, {"id": "C3.24.11", "lines": ["Both chiefs said, “If our men maintain this fight,", "By dusk, no living warrior stands in sight."]}, {"id": "C3.24.12", "lines": ["No living man shall stand beneath the sky;", "The world will turn, with God alone on high.”"]}, {"id": "C3.24.13", "lines": ["When Piran saw the battle’s fierce array,", "He called Lahhak and Farshidvard to say:"]}, {"id": "C3.24.14", "lines": ["“Of all the troops who serve beneath your hand,", "Choose those most fit for battle from each band."]}, {"id": "C3.24.15", "lines": ["Set them in three divisions for the field,", "With captains who know well the arms they wield."]}, {"id": "C3.24.16", "lines": ["Select the men most watchful in the fray,", "Most skilled at keeping hostile troops at bay."]}, {"id": "C3.24.17", "lines": ["Entrust to them the army’s rear to guard;", "You two must take the flanks and strike them hard.”"]}, {"id": "C3.24.18", "lines": ["He sent Lahhak toward the mountain height,", "With all his gathered horsemen armed for fight."]}, {"id": "C3.24.19", "lines": ["And Farshidvard beside the stream then rode,", "Till dust rose to the sun along that road."]}, {"id": "C3.24.20", "lines": ["As those Turanian chiefs came on in force,", "A watchman on his lookout marked their course."]}, {"id": "C3.24.21", "lines": ["He sent a rider from his post on high,", "To bring Gudarz the news with urgent cry."]}, {"id": "C3.24.22", "lines": ["Gudarz’s watch kept guard beside the band,", "And scanned for enemies on either hand."]}, {"id": "C3.24.23", "lines": ["Lahhak and Farshidvard raised dust that spread,", "As from their ambush paths they forward sped."]}, {"id": "C3.24.24", "lines": ["The Iranian riders closed with them in blood,", "And turned the dust to one destructive flood."]}, {"id": "C3.24.25", "lines": ["Then messengers from every flank were spurred", "To tell Gudarz the danger they had heard."]}, {"id": "C3.24.26", "lines": ["Gudarz looked back to see what chief stood near,", "Of all the warlike men who held his rear."]}, {"id": "C3.24.27", "lines": ["His son Hajir, a lion in the fight,", "Stood in reserve with bow and sword held bright."]}, {"id": "C3.24.28", "lines": ["Gudarz said, “Find brave Giv without delay;", "The army’s rear is in his charge today."]}, {"id": "C3.24.29", "lines": ["Tell him to send support to stream and crest,", "Troop after troop to aid the men hard-pressed."]}, {"id": "C3.24.30", "lines": ["And tell him, too, to choose a valiant man,", "To hold the army’s rear, as he began."]}, {"id": "C3.24.31", "lines": ["To that man let him give his former place,", "Then let him come ahead to meet my face.”"]}, {"id": "C3.24.32", "lines": ["Hajir stood ready, with his girdle tight,", "And heard his father’s words amid the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.24.33", "lines": ["He hurried to his brother through the band,", "And told him all their father’s strict command."]}, {"id": "C3.24.34", "lines": ["When Giv had heard, his spirit rose like flame;", "He chose a warrior of distinguished name."]}, {"id": "C3.24.35", "lines": ["He chose Farhad, high-ranked among the bold,", "And gave to him the battle-line to hold."]}, {"id": "C3.24.36", "lines": ["Then Zangeh, son of Shavaran, he sent,", "With two hundred veterans, on slaughter bent."]}, {"id": "C3.24.37", "lines": ["He sent them toward the stream with gorz and blade,", "To strike at Farshidvard and break his raid."]}, {"id": "C3.24.38", "lines": ["To Gorgin, son of Milad, brave and wise,", "He gave two hundred, with a flag that flies."]}, {"id": "C3.24.39", "lines": ["He said, “Lead on with spears and gorz; give chase;", "Show prowess now and drive them from their place."]}, {"id": "C3.24.40", "lines": ["Go to that field of vengeance; let your might", "Turn all the world before them black as night."]}, {"id": "C3.24.41", "lines": ["Ride toward Lahhak, and there your strength employ;", "Those foemen’s ranks in battle you must destroy.”"]}, {"id": "C3.24.42", "lines": ["Then Giv, the horseman shining like the sun,", "Came to his father, those commands now done."]}, {"id": "C3.24.43", "lines": ["Gudarz said, “Lion-hearted son of mine,", "Sepahbod of Iran, who guides our line,"]}, {"id": "C3.24.44", "lines": ["Their army’s back is broken by our might;", "Their chiefs are bowed with grief amid the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.24.45", "lines": ["Your courage now must serve you in the field,", "For you must ride where blows ring on the shield."]}, {"id": "C3.24.46", "lines": ["Our army’s hopes are fixed on you today;", "Seize now the field and sweep their ranks away."]}, {"id": "C3.24.47", "lines": ["Spare not the foe; advance and show your might;", "The hour of vengeance calls you to the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.24.48", "lines": ["Go to the center; seek Piran, our foe,", "And take your vengeance with your strongest blow."]}, {"id": "C3.24.49", "lines": ["For on his shoulders all Turan is borne;", "When he sees you, his very skin is torn."]}, {"id": "C3.24.50", "lines": ["If you can seize him, you will do a deed", "With God and favoring fortune at your need."]}, {"id": "C3.24.51", "lines": ["Then all the army’s toil and pain shall cease;", "The Shah, the world’s lord, shall rejoice in peace."]}, {"id": "C3.24.52", "lines": ["Much treasure and rich goods shall come your way,", "And all your hopes find order from that day."]}, {"id": "C3.24.53", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s strength shall break beneath the blow;", "His heart shall bleed, his eyes with tears shall flow.”"]}, {"id": "C3.24.54", "lines": ["Thus to his son the seasoned chieftain spoke;", "The son bound tight his belt for battle’s stroke."]}, {"id": "C3.24.55", "lines": ["Giv mounted and set spurs to his swift steed,", "Like lightning down a slope he rode at speed."]}, {"id": "C3.24.56", "lines": ["He called the horsemen from the left and right,", "And gathered all those warriors for the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.24.57", "lines": ["Guraza came, and Gostaham drew near,", "With Bijan and the army-chief Hajir."]}, {"id": "C3.24.58", "lines": ["Those noble warriors took the forward road,", "Toward Turan’s center, where its banners showed."]}, {"id": "C3.24.59", "lines": ["Like lions on the hunt, they rode their course,", "Each mounted on a swift and gelded horse."]}, {"id": "C3.24.60", "lines": ["They charged against the ranks with all their weight,", "And vented all their vengeance and their hate."]}, {"id": "C3.24.61", "lines": ["Across the plain, the armored horsemen reeled,", "And scattered in the tumult of the field."]}, {"id": "C3.24.62", "lines": ["Beneath the horses lay the fallen brave,", "Their jowshans shrouds, a lion’s breast their grave."]}, {"id": "C3.25.1", "lines": ["When Ruyin, son of Piran, from the rear,", "Beheld the onset and the dust draw near,"]}, {"id": "C3.25.2", "lines": ["He issued from the rear of Turan’s band,", "With wolfish nobles, sword and spear in hand."]}, {"id": "C3.25.3", "lines": ["Like some fierce leopard, he engaged the foe,", "But could not master them or lay them low."]}, {"id": "C3.25.4", "lines": ["He struggled hard, then cast his sword away,", "And turned his back, despairing of the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.25.5", "lines": ["Piran the chief, with warriors of his own,", "Held firm his place, his face to battle shown."]}, {"id": "C3.25.6", "lines": ["Giv saw him there, and wheeled, and spurred to breach", "The ring of guards that kept Piran from reach."]}, {"id": "C3.25.7", "lines": ["He speared four men and hurled them to the ground,", "From those before Piran, his guards around."]}, {"id": "C3.25.8", "lines": ["Piran, son of Viseh, strung his bow,", "And rained sharp arrows fiercely on his foe."]}, {"id": "C3.25.9", "lines": ["Bold Giv held up his shield above his head,", "And charged with spear, a wolf where blood was shed."]}, {"id": "C3.25.10", "lines": ["But when he sought to close with fierce Piran,", "And thrust his spear against the chief of Turan,"]}, {"id": "C3.25.11", "lines": ["His charger halted, rooted to the ground;", "It would not move from where it now was found."]}, {"id": "C3.25.12", "lines": ["Enraged, he lashed his swift steed with the whip,", "And anger loosed the words upon his lip."]}, {"id": "C3.25.13", "lines": ["He seethed, then let his bitter curses fly", "Against the evil Div beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.25.14", "lines": ["Then with his wolf-skin shield above his head,", "He dropped his spear and took his bow instead."]}, {"id": "C3.25.15", "lines": ["He drew and loosed to pin Piran’s strong hand", "Against the shield he raised to make his stand."]}, {"id": "C3.25.16", "lines": ["Four shafts he shot against Piran’s proud crown;", "They failed to harm that chief of dread renown."]}, {"id": "C3.25.17", "lines": ["Three more he shot against the chieftain’s steed,", "With points to pierce through jowshans in war’s need."]}, {"id": "C3.25.18", "lines": ["No wound appeared on rider or on horse;", "Then Giv’s companions sped to him in force."]}, {"id": "C3.25.19", "lines": ["When Piran saw, his heart with fury burned;", "He charged at Giv, to fierce assault returned."]}, {"id": "C3.25.20", "lines": ["He sought to wound Giv’s body, break his frame,", "And rout the army that behind him came."]}, {"id": "C3.25.21", "lines": ["Giv wheeled like smoke and thrust his spear on high,", "And swept Piran’s helm off beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.25.22", "lines": ["Yet harmed him not nor laid the warrior low;", "Giv’s heart grew troubled by that fruitless blow."]}, {"id": "C3.25.23", "lines": ["Bijan approached his father in the fight,", "And said, “O famed one, blessed with fortune’s light,"]}, {"id": "C3.25.24", "lines": ["I heard our monarch say that old Piran", "Would fight in many battles for Turan."]}, {"id": "C3.25.25", "lines": ["From many dragons’ sharp and clutching hold,", "He shall escape in battle, as foretold."]}, {"id": "C3.25.26", "lines": ["Yet at the last Gudarz will take his breath;", "He is reserved for that appointed death."]}, {"id": "C3.25.27", "lines": ["So strive no more: his destined hour is far;", "Why seek to force the secret of his star?”"]}, {"id": "C3.25.28", "lines": ["Giv’s wrathful troops came up in armored rows,", "Their hearts aflame with vengeance for their foes."]}, {"id": "C3.25.29", "lines": ["When Piran saw them, he wheeled round to flee,", "And sought his troops, where there might sheltered be."]}, {"id": "C3.25.30", "lines": ["With yellow face he sought his chieftains’ aid,", "Lahhak and Farshidvard, both sore dismayed, "]}, {"id": "C3.25.31", "lines": ["And said, “O chiefs of fame and lion heart,", "Great swordsmen trained in battle’s deadly art,"]}, {"id": "C3.25.32", "lines": ["For such an hour I raised you into fame;", "Now prove the steel and valor of your name."]}, {"id": "C3.25.33", "lines": ["The foe has now come forward to the fight,", "The world is black with enemies in sight."]}, {"id": "C3.25.34", "lines": ["Yet I have seen no warrior take the field,", "And fight before the lines with sword and shield.”"]}, {"id": "C3.25.35", "lines": ["At this, the chieftains breathed revenge in flame,", "And rose to answer when his summons came:"]}, {"id": "C3.25.36", "lines": ["“Though our pure souls should leave our bodies here,", "We shall not flinch or yield ourselves to fear."]}, {"id": "C3.25.37", "lines": ["Bind robe to robe; we stand here for the fight,", "And keep our battle-belts drawn firm and tight.”"]}, {"id": "C3.25.38", "lines": ["Lahhak and Farshidvard, their strength combined,", "Rode out and challenged Giv with single mind."]}, {"id": "C3.25.39", "lines": ["Brave Lahhak charged at Giv; the blow he dealt", "Drove his spear hard against the warrior’s belt."]}, {"id": "C3.25.40", "lines": ["He sought to wrench the warrior from his seat,", "And hurl him headlong at the charger’s feet."]}, {"id": "C3.25.41", "lines": ["His jowshan shattered from the heavy blow,", "Yet Giv sat firm and would not topple low."]}, {"id": "C3.25.42", "lines": ["His spear then pierced Lahhak’s swift-footed steed,", "Which fell in anguish from that violent deed."]}, {"id": "C3.25.43", "lines": ["Lahhak dismounted; from afar, astride", "His horse, brave Farshidvard rode to his side."]}, {"id": "C3.25.44", "lines": ["His sword cut through Giv’s spear like wind in flight;", "He turned away, rejoicing in his might."]}, {"id": "C3.25.45", "lines": ["When Giv beheld what Farshidvard had done,", "He drew his gorz and charged him at a run."]}, {"id": "C3.25.46", "lines": ["He struck that dragon’s head with all his force,", "And knocked the blade out, flying off its course."]}, {"id": "C3.25.47", "lines": ["He struck his neck again; a fiery rain", "Poured down his body with that blow of pain."]}, {"id": "C3.25.48", "lines": ["Blood from his liver to his mouth now rose;", "His body slackened, dazed beneath the blows."]}, {"id": "C3.25.49", "lines": ["While Giv fought on, Lahhak with hurried course", "Remounted on a swift, wind-footed horse."]}, {"id": "C3.25.50", "lines": ["The two chiefs, armed with gorz and spear, attacked,", "Like lions raging where the lines were packed."]}, {"id": "C3.25.51", "lines": ["Their gorzes rained with many a crushing blow,", "Yet Giv sat firm against the double foe."]}, {"id": "C3.25.52", "lines": ["Firm in his khadang saddle, Giv held fast,", "And took delight in battle as blows passed."]}, {"id": "C3.25.53", "lines": ["When they beheld that lion standing strong,", "Defying all their blows the whole day long,"]}, {"id": "C3.25.54", "lines": ["The two chiefs cried in anger and despair:", "“What evil has Iran brought us to bear?"]}, {"id": "C3.25.55", "lines": ["An elephant is mounted on that steed;", "Only a lion’s claws could make him bleed.”"]}, {"id": "C3.25.56", "lines": ["Giv called his comrades for another spear,", "Then wheeled to left and right as foes drew near."]}, {"id": "C3.25.57", "lines": ["He charged them both from either side with might,", "Yet neither chief was toppled in the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.25.58", "lines": ["He thought, “These warriors bring a trial new;", "What strange contention must I struggle through?"]}, {"id": "C3.25.59", "lines": ["No mortal men of Turan face me here,", "But then Divs out of Mazandaran appear.”"]}, {"id": "C3.25.60", "lines": ["Upon Giv’s right Guraza drove his horse", "To meet bold Farshidvard with warlike force."]}, {"id": "C3.25.61", "lines": ["His Roman gorz of steel rose like a tower;", "His camel-sized steed bore him forth in power."]}, {"id": "C3.25.62", "lines": ["Guraza swung; in steel-bound jowshan, low", "The chief bent to his saddle, foiled the blow."]}, {"id": "C3.25.63", "lines": ["Then with his spear he struck Guraza’s belt,", "But no link parted with the stroke he dealt."]}, {"id": "C3.25.64", "lines": ["Then Bijan, sword in hand, advanced to fight,", "Behind Guraza, like a lion in might."]}, {"id": "C3.25.65", "lines": ["He struck the head and helm of Farshidvard,", "Who churned the earth in battle, fighting hard."]}, {"id": "C3.25.66", "lines": ["Bijan reached out to seize his crested head;", "The Turk ducked down and slipped aside instead."]}, {"id": "C3.25.67", "lines": ["Behind Bijan rode Gostaham in force,", "Iran’s great nobles following his course."]}, {"id": "C3.25.68", "lines": ["Near the Turanian lines, with anxious heart,", "They pressed ahead, all eager for their part."]}, {"id": "C3.25.69", "lines": ["Andariman came rushing through the dust,", "From Turan’s troops, intent on battle’s thrust."]}, {"id": "C3.25.70", "lines": ["He swung his gorz at Gostaham, who faced", "The blow that sought to break him at the waist."]}, {"id": "C3.25.71", "lines": ["It struck his sword and split the blade in two;", "Fear filled brave Gostaham as danger grew."]}, {"id": "C3.25.72", "lines": ["Hajir came up behind them on the plain,", "And showered Andariman with shafts like rain."]}, {"id": "C3.25.73", "lines": ["One shaft tore through the armor of his steed;", "The horse fell lifeless from that piercing deed."]}, {"id": "C3.25.74", "lines": ["The rider dropped to earth and raised his shield,", "Prepared to fight on foot upon the field."]}, {"id": "C3.25.75", "lines": ["A cry rose from the Turkish ranks around;", "Their riders rushed like Divs across the ground."]}, {"id": "C3.25.76", "lines": ["They found a way to draw him back and guide", "Him safely from the fighting to their side."]}, {"id": "C3.25.77", "lines": ["From dawn until night rose above the height,", "Iran and Turan kept their troops in fight."]}, {"id": "C3.25.78", "lines": ["They fought in vengeance, striking blow on blow,", "And mixed the dust with blood in one red flow."]}, {"id": "C3.25.79", "lines": ["Both steeds and men were spent from battle’s course;", "Their mouths were dry, their bodies drained of force."]}, {"id": "C3.26.1", "lines": ["When darkness veiled the armies on each side,", "Their buq and koust roared out in thunderous tide."]}, {"id": "C3.26.2", "lines": ["The drummers on their elephants withdrew,", "And left the field where blood had soaked it through."]}, {"id": "C3.26.3", "lines": ["Both sides decided, “Since night has fallen deep,", "We quit the field and give the warriors sleep."]}, {"id": "C3.26.4", "lines": ["At dawn we choose the champions war has bred,", "Who raise the dust from ocean’s deepest bed."]}, {"id": "C3.26.5", "lines": ["Men of renown, all eager for the fray,", "Shall meet in single combat at first ray."]}, {"id": "C3.26.6", "lines": ["Thus shall the troops escape the battle’s flood,", "And no more guiltless men shall shed their blood.”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.7", "lines": ["They sealed the pact to end that lengthy fight,", "And curb its bloodshed with the coming night."]}, {"id": "C3.26.8", "lines": ["This settled, both withdrew from battle’s field,", "And let their wrath to measured counsel yield."]}, {"id": "C3.26.9", "lines": ["Both chiefs, perturbed, their long day’s battle done,", "Turned from the field beneath the setting sun."]}, {"id": "C3.26.10", "lines": ["Piran rode toward Kanabad’s mountain wall,", "And brought his weary troops back, one and all."]}, {"id": "C3.26.11", "lines": ["Gudarz rode back to Raibad with his band,", "And left the field where both had made their stand."]}, {"id": "C3.26.12", "lines": ["He then at once sent scouts along the way,", "To guard the army after that grim day."]}, {"id": "C3.26.13", "lines": ["His horsemen, worn from battle, bowed each head;", "Their hands and swords were all stained bloody red."]}, {"id": "C3.26.14", "lines": ["They loosened every buckle, knot, and thread;", "From breast and head, helms and jowshans were shed."]}, {"id": "C3.26.15", "lines": ["They rested from the iron weight they wore,", "And felt its burden on their frames no more."]}, {"id": "C3.26.16", "lines": ["They sought out food to ease their hunger then,", "And cups of wine were measured for the men."]}, {"id": "C3.26.17", "lines": ["Then all the chiefs came, seeking to be taught,", "Before the Pahlevan, to speak their thought."]}, {"id": "C3.26.18", "lines": ["Giv said, “My father, hear what befell me;", "What strange event my eyes were made to see."]}, {"id": "C3.26.19", "lines": ["I charged the ranks of Turan with my might,", "And tore a passage through them in the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.26.20", "lines": ["I came on fierce Piran, but then my steed", "Balked hard and would not stir a foot in need."]}, {"id": "C3.26.21", "lines": ["My anger and despair so choked my breath,", "I nearly sought to put myself to death."]}, {"id": "C3.26.22", "lines": ["Then Bijan called to mind the Shah’s decree,", "And told me Piran would not fall to me."]}, {"id": "C3.26.23", "lines": ["The Shah had said that by your hand alone,", "Piran would die, his destined end made known.”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.24", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “My son, this hand shall end", "His life, if God grants strength my arm to lend."]}, {"id": "C3.26.25", "lines": ["On him I shall avenge my seventy sons,", "Beloved lives cut off like setting suns.”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.26", "lines": ["Gudarz then viewed the line and saw it worn,", "Its noble chiefs all weary and forlorn."]}, {"id": "C3.26.27", "lines": ["From toil in battle and the blood they shed,", "From meeting foes wherever strife had led,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.28", "lines": ["He grieved to see his noble warriors pale,", "Their faces yellow after that long travail."]}, {"id": "C3.26.29", "lines": ["He bade them go and seek their resting-place,", "That fortunate sepahbod, wise in grace."]}, {"id": "C3.26.30", "lines": ["Their bodies, burdened with the weight of fight,", "Might find relief and rest throughout the night."]}, {"id": "C3.26.31", "lines": ["They went their ways, and at the dawn returned,", "Equipped for vengeance, while their spirits burned."]}, {"id": "C3.26.32", "lines": ["They greeted him: “Great Pahlevan of earth,", "Receive our blessings, chief of proven worth."]}, {"id": "C3.26.33", "lines": ["How did you sleep, and how did you arise?", "What plan for fighting Turan do you devise?”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.34", "lines": ["He answered, “O renowned and noble chiefs,", "Whose courage masters all the war’s great griefs,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.35", "lines": ["Be constant, all of you, and always raise", "Your blessings to the One who shaped our ways."]}, {"id": "C3.26.36", "lines": ["Until this hour the war has matched our will;", "Its turning dust has served our purpose still."]}, {"id": "C3.26.37", "lines": ["Full many marvels have I lived to see;", "This world is nothing but a road to me."]}, {"id": "C3.26.38", "lines": ["The sky has fashioned many of our kind,", "Then reaped them all and left no trace behind."]}, {"id": "C3.26.39", "lines": ["Recall Zahhak, unjust and fierce and grim,", "Who rose to kingship while the world feared him."]}, {"id": "C3.26.40", "lines": ["He crushed the earth, while earth’s own Maker bore", "His evil rule and let his terrors soar."]}, {"id": "C3.26.41", "lines": ["Long years passed over all that tyrant’s reign,", "Till God brought evil on his evil train."]}, {"id": "C3.26.42", "lines": ["The Judge endured his wrong no longer then,", "And raised a just man from among all men."]}, {"id": "C3.26.43", "lines": ["The rule that made oppression stand as right", "Was wind: one breath dispersed it from the sight."]}, {"id": "C3.26.44", "lines": ["Then blessed Fereydoon, the just, arose,", "And girded himself for the rule he chose."]}, {"id": "C3.26.45", "lines": ["He loosed the bonds that Ahriman made fast,", "And freed the world from fetters he had cast."]}, {"id": "C3.26.46", "lines": ["He set the earth in order through his reign,", "And justice flourished over his domain."]}, {"id": "C3.26.47", "lines": ["As vile Zahhak, whose wicked heart and name", "Drew every king’s reproach and lasting blame,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.48", "lines": ["So Afrasiab showed that evil art:", "Pillage and slaughter, sorcery at heart."]}, {"id": "C3.26.49", "lines": ["He spread his vengeance over Iran’s plain,", "Forsaking justice, faith, and lawful reign."]}, {"id": "C3.26.50", "lines": ["At last he murdered Siavash; his hand", "Brought ruin and bereavement on our land."]}, {"id": "C3.26.51", "lines": ["When Giv rode out from Iran, long he bore", "Hardship in Turan, wandering evermore."]}, {"id": "C3.26.52", "lines": ["With earth his bed, a stone beneath his head,", "He rested where the lonely pathways led."]}, {"id": "C3.26.53", "lines": ["He lived on game and wore a leopard skin,", "While hardship wore his weary body thin."]}, {"id": "C3.26.54", "lines": ["He wandered lost, as though his wits had fled,", "To find some sign of Khosrow as he sped."]}, {"id": "C3.26.55", "lines": ["At last he reached Khosrow and saw his face,", "And blessed the king he found in that far place."]}, {"id": "C3.26.56", "lines": ["When they had turned their faces toward our land,", "News reached Piran, who gathered all his band."]}, {"id": "C3.26.57", "lines": ["Piran rode swiftly with his troops that day,", "To kill them both upon their homeward way."]}, {"id": "C3.26.58", "lines": ["He did what harm he could, but God’s great might", "Preserved them both and led them through the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.26.59", "lines": ["Then for slain Siavash, our troops rode out;", "At Kasa-rud they raised the battle-shout."]}, {"id": "C3.26.60", "lines": ["At Ladan, when the mighty troops drew near,", "Piran’s night raid and Pashan’s war brought fear."]}, {"id": "C3.26.61", "lines": ["How many sons were slain before my sight,", "While all our chiefs lost heart amid the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.26.62", "lines": ["Now with this force, Piran, like us, returns,", "Intent on vengeance, and for battle burns."]}, {"id": "C3.26.63", "lines": ["Since he feels weak, he will delay with guile,", "By ruse and talk, to gain a little while."]}, {"id": "C3.26.64", "lines": ["He schemes to gain the time his army needs,", "Till fresh troops come from Turan on their steeds."]}, {"id": "C3.26.65", "lines": ["He now calls out our chiefs to single fight;", "Each one must go prepared to prove his might."]}, {"id": "C3.26.66", "lines": ["We must be ready, lest our strength seem small,", "And give him cause to shun the battle’s call."]}, {"id": "C3.26.67", "lines": ["If we delay, he may find cause to flee,", "And turn from vengeance, fame, and rivalry."]}, {"id": "C3.26.68", "lines": ["We shall raise dust from those whom fame has crowned,", "When they come out in strength to hold their ground."]}, {"id": "C3.26.69", "lines": ["If Piran keeps his word and takes the field,", "And holds to this resolve and will not yield,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.70", "lines": ["I pledge before you all, each warrior here:", "I shall be first to arm and persevere."]}, {"id": "C3.26.71", "lines": ["Though white of hair, I offer up my frame", "Before the troops and seek enduring fame."]}, {"id": "C3.26.72", "lines": ["Then Piran, Ruyin, Giv, and I shall stand,", "And bear ourselves like men with sword in hand."]}, {"id": "C3.26.73", "lines": ["For none abides forever in this place;", "Only our fame remains to mark our race."]}, {"id": "C3.26.74", "lines": ["The best is leaving honored fame behind,", "For death’s dark kamand hunts all humankind."]}, {"id": "C3.26.75", "lines": ["One end awaits us, death by age or blade;", "The turning sky grants little lasting aid."]}, {"id": "C3.26.76", "lines": ["By that same token, act as warriors too,", "And arm with lances, swords, and purpose true."]}, {"id": "C3.26.77", "lines": ["Gird on your arms for vengeance, every one,", "All men of name beneath the circling sun."]}, {"id": "C3.26.78", "lines": ["Their fortune has begun its downward flight;", "Now is the hour to press them with our might."]}, {"id": "C3.26.79", "lines": ["No horseman equaled Houman in Turan,", "Who fought with Giv’s brave son, that Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C3.26.80", "lines": ["Yet when his fortune turned, he was cast down,", "Beheaded, rolled in blood, stripped of renown."]}, {"id": "C3.26.81", "lines": ["We need not fear them or withdraw in dread;", "Their strength is cracked, their confidence has fled."]}, {"id": "C3.26.82", "lines": ["If single combat does not please Piran,", "And he brings forth the armies of Turan,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.83", "lines": ["We too shall surge like mountains to the fight,", "And meet his ranks with all our gathered might."]}, {"id": "C3.26.84", "lines": ["Since our enemy is downcast and worn,", "Their hearts are wounded and their spirits torn."]}, {"id": "C3.26.85", "lines": ["We shall send up their dust to heaven’s vault,", "And crush the power behind their fierce assault.”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.86", "lines": ["The noble veterans blessed him in one voice:", "“O chief of righteous faith, in whom we rejoice,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.87", "lines": ["Since God created earth, no man has seen", "A Pahlevan like you, in war so keen."]}, {"id": "C3.26.88", "lines": ["Not even Fereydoon, lord of the earth,", "Had any servant of your weight and worth."]}, {"id": "C3.26.89", "lines": ["You are the army’s stay, the Shah’s great name;", "Through you our warriors lift their helms to fame."]}, {"id": "C3.26.90", "lines": ["You have devoted children, wealth, and life;", "What more can kings demand of you in strife?"]}, {"id": "C3.26.91", "lines": ["What he required of Tus and Fariborz then,", "He sees fulfilled through you before his men."]}, {"id": "C3.26.92", "lines": ["We are your slaves; our hearts with love are filled;", "Our lives submit to all that you have willed."]}, {"id": "C3.26.93", "lines": ["If Piran brings his champions forth to fight,", "To settle vengeance by their proven might,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.94", "lines": ["Send ten of us against a thousand men;", "See who will turn his head from battle then."]}, {"id": "C3.26.95", "lines": ["If he comes forth on plain and mountain height,", "We ache for vengeance, armed and poised to smite."]}, {"id": "C3.26.96", "lines": ["May we give all our lives for you today;", "To this our hearts are pledged without delay.”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.97", "lines": ["Gudarz heard all their answers, and his heart", "Grew bright with joy at how they took his part."]}, {"id": "C3.26.98", "lines": ["He blessed those famous men and cried aloud:", "“O Pahlevans beneath our monarch proud,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.99", "lines": ["Such is the custom of the truly brave,", "Of lions who confront the waiting grave.”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.100", "lines": ["He bade the troops to mount for coming fight,", "And draw their belts for vengeance firm and tight."]}, {"id": "C3.26.101", "lines": ["He gave the left, where Rohham used to stand,", "To bright-faced Farhad and his chosen band."]}, {"id": "C3.26.102", "lines": ["Where Fariborz had held the right in place,", "He stationed Katmareh, of Gharan’s race."]}, {"id": "C3.26.103", "lines": ["Then to Shidush he said, “O son of mine,", "Whose counsel serves me well in each design,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.104", "lines": ["With Kaveh’s standard and the troops, remain;", "Stand firm behind the army on the plain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.105", "lines": ["He then commanded Gostaham: “Now go,", "Lead forth the army, guard it from the foe."]}, {"id": "C3.26.106", "lines": ["You shall hold charge here in the chief’s own place,", "And shield the army’s rear from all disgrace.”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.107", "lines": ["He bade the troops remain in their own ground;", "Let none advance beyond the posts they found."]}, {"id": "C3.26.108", "lines": ["They were to bless brave Gostaham’s command,", "And stay in saddle, ready, all the band."]}, {"id": "C3.26.109", "lines": ["A cry rose through the army, van to rear;", "They wept there on the field for all to hear."]}, {"id": "C3.26.110", "lines": ["They rushed toward Gudarz, every noble head", "Bowed down as dust upon their crowns they spread."]}, {"id": "C3.26.111", "lines": ["“O chief of chiefs, may victory attend", "Your prowess on this field from start to end."]}, {"id": "C3.26.112", "lines": ["May you defeat the foe through God’s just might,", "Though white of hair, still youthful in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "C3.26.113", "lines": ["Gudarz called Gostaham before his face,", "And gave him counsel for that dangerous place."]}, {"id": "C3.26.114", "lines": ["He said, “Be watchful, wise in every deed;", "Protect the army in its hour of need."]}, {"id": "C3.26.115", "lines": ["By night and day remain in armor dressed;", "Let vigilance and vengeance fill your breast."]}, {"id": "C3.26.116", "lines": ["If you should cease to think upon the fight,", "Sleep may steal over you and cloud your sight."]}, {"id": "C3.26.117", "lines": ["If horsemen ride against us in the night,", "And those who sleep cry out in sudden fright,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.118", "lines": ["Set one keen watchman on the mountain’s crown,", "To scan the country from that height, looking down."]}, {"id": "C3.26.119", "lines": ["Guard all the army well from hostile hands;", "Let no night raid bring grief upon our bands."]}, {"id": "C3.26.120", "lines": ["If troops from Turan come from ambush near,", "And make a sudden night attack appear,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.121", "lines": ["Hold firm your ground and show your strength in fight;", "Be ready for the clash with all your might."]}, {"id": "C3.26.122", "lines": ["But if ill tidings reach you from the field,", "And Turan’s troops proclaim our fate is sealed,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.123", "lines": ["That we, your champions, have been overthrown,", "Our heads cut off and from our bodies thrown,"]}, {"id": "C3.26.124", "lines": ["Keep all the army back; refrain from fight;", "For three days wait and hold your purpose tight."]}, {"id": "C3.26.125", "lines": ["Upon the fourth, the Shah shall come in might,", "With troops and royal splendor in your sight.”"]}, {"id": "C3.27.1", "lines": ["Since that last fight had brought Turan despair,", "The troops grew sorrowful and bowed to care."]}, {"id": "C3.27.2", "lines": ["The fathers mourned their sons with faces pale;", "For brothers slain, their brothers raised a wail."]}, {"id": "C3.27.3", "lines": ["They all were full of mourning and of pain,", "Grieved by the turning heavens’ dark disdain."]}, {"id": "C3.27.4", "lines": ["When Piran saw his wounded troops appear", "Like sheep a ravening wolf had ravaged here,"]}, {"id": "C3.27.5", "lines": ["He called the chiefs and spoke to them at length:", "“O seasoned warriors, summon all your strength,"]}, {"id": "C3.27.6", "lines": ["Old men and young alike with battle strained,", "What majesty and rank have you attained"]}, {"id": "C3.27.7", "lines": ["Before Afrasiab’s throne, where you won fame,", "And through his favor magnified your name?"]}, {"id": "C3.27.8", "lines": ["Through victory you gained your hearts’ desire;", "Your fame spread through the world like rising fire."]}, {"id": "C3.27.9", "lines": ["Yet one defeat has filled you with dismay,", "And all of you have turned from war away!"]}, {"id": "C3.27.10", "lines": ["Know this: if we retreat in coward flight,", "Iran’s strong leaders will pursue in might."]}, {"id": "C3.27.11", "lines": ["With massive gorzes they will press our track,", "And strike our fleeing warriors in the back."]}, {"id": "C3.27.12", "lines": ["Of all our ranks, no warrior will remain", "For great or small to see upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.27.13", "lines": ["Now put these terrors from your hearts away,", "And bear your griefs with steady souls today."]}, {"id": "C3.27.14", "lines": ["The Mobadan have taught in every age:", "‘The victory is God’s at every stage.’"]}, {"id": "C3.27.15", "lines": ["The world is full of rise and fall and fear,", "And all who walk it tread with caution here."]}, {"id": "C3.27.16", "lines": ["This force has fled before us in the fight;", "Remember that and draw your girdles tight."]}, {"id": "C3.27.17", "lines": ["Let all who love their land and child and kin,", "Who prize their lives and honor, gather in."]}, {"id": "C3.27.18", "lines": ["Arm now to face Iran’s troops in the field;", "Let none who loves his land retreat or yield."]}, {"id": "C3.27.19", "lines": ["Gudarz has made this compact with me here:", "‘I choose our chiefs and set their stations clear."]}, {"id": "C3.27.20", "lines": ["Then let our champions stand face to face,", "And let both armies rest awhile in place.’"]}, {"id": "C3.27.21", "lines": ["If he keeps faith and brings his chosen men,", "Then so it stands; we meet them there and then."]}, {"id": "C3.27.22", "lines": ["But if he leads his army forth in force,", "We too shall charge and meet him on his course."]}, {"id": "C3.27.23", "lines": ["If we must bow our heads beneath the blade,", "One day brings birth; one day our lives must fade."]}, {"id": "C3.27.24", "lines": ["If not, their chieftains’ heads shall hang on high;", "Two faces has the fortune of the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.27.25", "lines": ["Who disregards these words of mine today,", "I will behead before he turns away.”"]}, {"id": "C3.27.26", "lines": ["At once the warriors answered, swift and plain:", "“O Pahlevan of Afrasiab’s reign,"]}, {"id": "C3.27.27", "lines": ["For years you spent your treasure for our sake,", "And chose the work that others would not take."]}, {"id": "C3.27.28", "lines": ["You toiled before us like the humblest slave,", "And sons and brothers to the slaughter gave."]}, {"id": "C3.27.29", "lines": ["Why then should we, your servants, turn aside?", "What are we, that we claim such worth and pride?"]}, {"id": "C3.27.30", "lines": ["What purpose does our service to the king", "Fulfill, unless our lives to war we bring?”"]}, {"id": "C3.27.31", "lines": ["They spoke and rose, and armed themselves for fight,", "Preparing for the battle through the night."]}, {"id": "C3.27.32", "lines": ["They followed all their chief had set in train;", "At dawn, shaypur and ney rang through the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.27.33", "lines": ["At dawn the famous warriors took their seat", "Upon their steeds, with bows, the foe to meet."]}, {"id": "C3.27.34", "lines": ["The horses’ hooves seemed over earth to spread", "A cloth of iron underneath their tread."]}, {"id": "C3.27.35", "lines": ["To Farshidvard and Lahhak Piran spoke:", "“Great chiefs, guard Turan from the coming stroke."]}, {"id": "C3.27.36", "lines": ["The safety of the army on this field", "Must be your care; stand firm, its living shield."]}, {"id": "C3.27.37", "lines": ["Set there a watchman on the mountain height,", "To scan the field while day affords him light."]}, {"id": "C3.27.38", "lines": ["There let him keep his vigil through the night,", "And count the stars until the dawn grows bright."]}, {"id": "C3.27.39", "lines": ["If ill should come from heaven’s turning sky,", "And all its favor wholly pass us by,"]}, {"id": "C3.27.40", "lines": ["Then hurry back to Turan; let your flight", "Be swift as smoke when fortune turns to spite."]}, {"id": "C3.27.41", "lines": ["No others of our house are left to stand;", "Time felled our mighty warriors with its hand."]}, {"id": "C3.27.42", "lines": ["What can I teach of time and all its ways?", "Time is itself the teacher of our days.”"]}, {"id": "C3.27.43", "lines": ["They clasped each other, weeping in their pain,", "Then turned away, their bitter tears like rain."]}, {"id": "C3.27.44", "lines": ["They parted from the ranks with cries of grief,", "And loud lament accompanied each chief."]}, {"id": "C3.27.45", "lines": ["Then Piran, filled with vengeance, rode back out,", "And reached the field with his loud battle-shout."]}, {"id": "C3.28.1", "lines": ["When old Gudarz beheld Piran draw near,", "They spoke at length, with much for each to hear."]}, {"id": "C3.28.2", "lines": ["Piran said, “Wise chief, why torment your soul,", "And let this anguish take so great a toll?"]}, {"id": "C3.28.3", "lines": ["Will Siavash’s soul receive some gain,", "If all Turan lies reeking with the slain?"]}, {"id": "C3.28.4", "lines": ["His soul rests with the righteous in God’s light;", "Now he has peace; why still prolong the fight?"]}, {"id": "C3.28.5", "lines": ["The warriors of both armies lie here dead,", "Like mighty elephants deprived of head."]}, {"id": "C3.28.6", "lines": ["The troops of two great realms lie slaughtered here;", "Now quit the field and let the world breathe clear."]}, {"id": "C3.28.7", "lines": ["The world grows empty of the men it bore;", "This endless feud has chilled our zeal for war."]}, {"id": "C3.28.8", "lines": ["Why kill the guiltless on this battlefield?", "Let us agree what peace our words may yield."]}, {"id": "C3.28.9", "lines": ["Let us make compact. If revenge you seek,", "Draw down your soldiers from the mountain peak."]}, {"id": "C3.28.10", "lines": ["Come forth yourself before them on the plain;", "Perhaps the vengeance sought you will obtain."]}, {"id": "C3.28.11", "lines": ["We two shall wheel upon this field of fight,", "While others face their rivals, might to might."]}, {"id": "C3.28.12", "lines": ["Whichever side shall win the field of strife", "Shall hold the throne and guard its realm and life."]}, {"id": "C3.28.13", "lines": ["If by your hand I fall upon this field,", "Let Turan’s troops renounce revenge, and yield."]}, {"id": "C3.28.14", "lines": ["They shall submit themselves to your command,", "And pledge their lives to keep the terms you planned."]}, {"id": "C3.28.15", "lines": ["But if you perish by this hand of mine,", "With nobles of your camp and royal line,"]}, {"id": "C3.28.16", "lines": ["I will not fight your troops or make them flee;", "No further harm shall come to them from me.”"]}, {"id": "C3.28.17", "lines": ["Gudarz heard, seeing how the turning sky", "Had darkened all the hope in Piran’s eye."]}, {"id": "C3.28.18", "lines": ["He praised the Omnipotent with heart and tongue,", "Then called to mind the Shah, heroic, young."]}, {"id": "C3.28.19", "lines": ["He answered: “Famous chief, I heard it all,", "And now shall answer plainly to your call."]}, {"id": "C3.28.20", "lines": ["What gain did Siavash’s blood provide", "For Afrasiab? Let justice be your guide."]}, {"id": "C3.28.21", "lines": ["Like sheep they slew him, severing his head,", "His heart was blood, his wounded spirit bled."]}, {"id": "C3.28.22", "lines": ["Thereafter Afrasiab made Iran cry", "With raids and slaughter cast beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.28.23", "lines": ["Siavash trusted in the oath you swore;", "You cast his life away and thought no more."]}, {"id": "C3.28.24", "lines": ["Then when my son approached with words of peace,", "You chose the sword and bade all parleys cease."]}, {"id": "C3.28.25", "lines": ["In fiery haste you armed your men to fight,", "And barred the road to peace with all your might."]}, {"id": "C3.28.26", "lines": ["My prayer to Him who rules the world and sky", "Has risen true and secretly on high:"]}, {"id": "C3.28.27", "lines": ["That I might meet you one day, blade to blade;", "Now you have come; let us not be delayed."]}, {"id": "C3.28.28", "lines": ["So let us two, with silvered heads, contend", "Upon this field, and bring the quarrel’s end."]}, {"id": "C3.28.29", "lines": ["Choose now a band of champions from your side,", "Seasoned in war, the men whom you have tried."]}, {"id": "C3.28.30", "lines": ["Let them with swords and kamands take their stand,", "And wield their massive gorzes, hand to hand."]}, {"id": "C3.28.31", "lines": ["Let each in single combat test his might,", "And bring his rival’s severed head from fight.”"]}, {"id": "C3.28.32", "lines": ["Piran replied, “Fulfill the words you say,", "And see what deeds your hands perform today.”"]}, {"id": "C3.28.33", "lines": ["The Turkish chief made ready in the field,", "And chose ten horsemen armed with sword and shield."]}, {"id": "C3.28.34", "lines": ["With steeds and gear and standards all prepared,", "They came, as lions famed for all they dared."]}, {"id": "C3.28.35", "lines": ["They rode out from the center to a place", "Apart, with room to meet there face to face."]}, {"id": "C3.28.36", "lines": ["No watching eye could see them where they stood;", "The chiefs arranged the trial as they would."]}, {"id": "C3.28.37", "lines": ["Each horseman of Turan would face a foe", "From Iran, matched to fight him blow for blow."]}, {"id": "C3.28.38", "lines": ["They matched strong Giv with Gurvi, Zereh’s son;", "In strength and love of strife they stood as one."]}, {"id": "C3.28.39", "lines": ["Of all that army, Gurvi bore the blame", "On whom the Shah’s most bitter curses came."]}, {"id": "C3.28.40", "lines": ["For Gurvi seized the spotless prince’s beard,", "Then cut his head away as all men feared."]}, {"id": "C3.28.41", "lines": ["Fariborz, son of Kay Kavus, took his place", "With Kulbad of the noble Viseh race."]}, {"id": "C3.28.42", "lines": ["Rohham, Gudarz’s son, was set to stand", "With Barman, foe to foe and hand to hand."]}, {"id": "C3.28.43", "lines": ["Guraza faced fierce Siamak in strife,", "Like lion meeting a nahang for life."]}, {"id": "C3.28.44", "lines": ["Old Gorgin, lion-hearted, took the field", "With Andariman, armed with spear and shield."]}, {"id": "C3.28.45", "lines": ["Brave Ruyin, Piran’s son, prepared to fight,", "And faced Bijan, Giv’s son, in armored might."]}, {"id": "C3.28.46", "lines": ["Awkhast met Zangeh, Shavaran’s fierce son;", "Borteh faced Kuhram, matched there one to one."]}, {"id": "C3.28.47", "lines": ["Foruhil faced Zangula; both rode out", "From central ranks to fight their single bout."]}, {"id": "C3.28.48", "lines": ["Hajir and Sipahram, fierce in the fight,", "Raised battle-cries and wheeled their steeds in sight."]}, {"id": "C3.28.49", "lines": ["Gudarz, son of Keshvad, faced Piran;", "Each stood prepared to fight as Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C3.28.50", "lines": ["Both chiefs had girded up their loins for strife,", "For kingship and the faith that shaped their life."]}, {"id": "C3.28.51", "lines": ["They swore together not to quit the field,", "Until one side had made the other yield."]}, {"id": "C3.28.52", "lines": ["That day would show whose fortune would ascend,", "Who, jowshan-clad, would triumph in the end."]}, {"id": "C3.28.53", "lines": ["Two heights stood opposite across the plain,", "From which the eye could view each army’s train."]}, {"id": "C3.28.54", "lines": ["One stood by Iran, one by Turan’s side;", "From each the distant ranks could be descried."]}, {"id": "C3.28.55", "lines": ["Before them lay the level, open field,", "Where ill luck brought its victims, doomed to yield."]}, {"id": "C3.28.56", "lines": ["Gudarz addressed his warriors, one and all,", "And showed the height that would proclaim a fall:"]}, {"id": "C3.28.57", "lines": ["“Whoever overthrows his foe in fight", "Shall raise a banner on this chosen height.”"]}, {"id": "C3.28.58", "lines": ["Piran marked out the other hill the same,", "And bade his men thus show their victor’s claim."]}, {"id": "C3.28.59", "lines": ["Then they descended to the level ground,", "Their belts drawn tight, with battle all around."]}, {"id": "C3.28.60", "lines": ["They fought with swords and arrows, and they threw", "Their gorzes, kamands, every art they knew."]}, {"id": "C3.28.61", "lines": ["The valiant chiefs of Turan pressed the fight,", "With gorzes, swords, and steel blades flashing bright."]}, {"id": "C3.28.62", "lines": ["Had mountains faced them where the battle roared,", "They would have struck at once with gorz and sword."]}, {"id": "C3.28.63", "lines": ["Yet all their hands grew powerless in that hour;", "God closed against them every door of power."]}, {"id": "C3.28.64", "lines": ["Their hands grew slack; a net of grief was spread,", "For all the guiltless blood that they had shed."]}, {"id": "C3.28.65", "lines": ["Their war-steeds faltered, rooted in their place,", "As though bound hand and foot against the race."]}, {"id": "C3.28.66", "lines": ["Among the Turks, now all their fortune turned;", "Their day was spent, though still their spirits burned."]}, {"id": "C3.28.67", "lines": ["Their hearts were shaken; God had so ordained,", "As though the earth itself their feet had chained."]}, {"id": "C3.28.68", "lines": ["To keep their thrones, they strove with all their might", "Against the fate that met them in the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.28.69", "lines": ["For kingship all those chiefs had come to strife,", "For honor and for right each gave his life."]}, {"id": "C3.28.70", "lines": ["Both sides pressed forward to the fatal ground,", "With vengeance in their hearts, to battle bound."]}, {"id": "C3.28.71", "lines": ["Piran knew well the secret of that day:", "His day of ill had come upon its way."]}, {"id": "C3.28.72", "lines": ["Such is the work of heaven, turning round:", "Where joy once rang, let cries of grief resound."]}, {"id": "C3.28.73", "lines": ["He saw that fighting was his only course;", "The fated hour had come to show its force."]}, {"id": "C3.29.1", "lines": ["First Fariborz, the gallant chief, now came,", "The son of Shah Kavus, of royal fame."]}, {"id": "C3.29.2", "lines": ["With bow already strung, he charged his foe,", "Kulbad of Viseh’s house, to strike a blow."]}, {"id": "C3.29.3", "lines": ["He wheeled, but found his arrow flight had strayed;", "Then with his right hand drew his flashing blade,"]}, {"id": "C3.29.4", "lines": ["And raised it, struck his neck; the blade’s descent", "Down to the waist in two his body rent."]}, {"id": "C3.29.5", "lines": ["He stepped down, loosed the kamand strap, and freed", "His royal kamand, fastened to the steed."]}, {"id": "C3.29.6", "lines": ["He bound dead Kulbad on the saddle tight,", "Then loosed the steel that clothed his foe for fight."]}, {"id": "C3.29.7", "lines": ["He climbed the height, his name with triumph crowned,", "And as he strode, his victory shout rang round."]}, {"id": "C3.29.8", "lines": ["He cried, “May brave Gudarz, our mighty chief,", "Prevail, and all the Shah’s foes sink in grief!”"]}, {"id": "C3.30.1", "lines": ["Next Gurvi, Zereh’s son, rode forth to fight", "With Giv, Gudarz’s son, a man of might."]}, {"id": "C3.30.2", "lines": ["They fought long with their spears in battle’s tide,", "And blood with whirling dust was scattered wide."]}, {"id": "C3.30.3", "lines": ["The spearheads scattered from their hands and fell,", "So fierce the combat, terrible to tell."]}, {"id": "C3.30.4", "lines": ["They took up bows and shafts and raced ahead,", "Like leopards charging fiercely head to head."]}, {"id": "C3.30.5", "lines": ["Giv sought to seize his rival living still,", "And drag him from the saddle, not to kill."]}, {"id": "C3.30.6", "lines": ["He meant to bring Khosrow a captive foe,", "A living gift from Turan to bestow."]}, {"id": "C3.30.7", "lines": ["When Giv drew near, Gurvi, in dread, dismayed,", "Let fall his bow before the charge Giv made."]}, {"id": "C3.30.8", "lines": ["He reached toward his sword in sudden fear;", "But Giv came charging, drawing ever near."]}, {"id": "C3.30.9", "lines": ["His ox-head gorz held ready for the fight,", "He roared as leopards roar in savage might."]}, {"id": "C3.30.10", "lines": ["He brought that gorz on head and helmet down;", "His stricken face ran bloody from the crown."]}, {"id": "C3.30.11", "lines": ["Giv reached out from his saddle at full length,", "And crushed him to his breast with all his strength."]}, {"id": "C3.30.12", "lines": ["Then Gurvi weakened, could no longer keep", "His saddle, falling senseless in a heap."]}, {"id": "C3.30.13", "lines": ["Then Giv dismounted, bending to the ground,", "And Gurvi’s hands behind his back he bound."]}, {"id": "C3.30.14", "lines": ["He mounted, drove him running on ahead,", "And to his comrade’s side the prisoner led."]}, {"id": "C3.30.15", "lines": ["A banner in his hand, he climbed the height;", "His shout bowed down the mountain in its might."]}, {"id": "C3.30.16", "lines": ["He called for triumph on the monarch’s side,", "And blessed Gudarz, his leader battle-tried."]}, {"id": "C3.31.1", "lines": ["Third, from Turan, Siamak rode to meet", "The bold Guraza, whom he must defeat."]}, {"id": "C3.31.2", "lines": ["Both gripped their spears and roared with wild intent,", "Like maddened elephants on battle bent."]}, {"id": "C3.31.3", "lines": ["The chiefs were filled with wrath and rancor’s flame,", "And seized their heavy gorzes as they came."]}, {"id": "C3.31.4", "lines": ["Like fighting lions, wild with rage, they sped;", "They struck each other hard upon the head."]}, {"id": "C3.31.5", "lines": ["Their tongues were cracked with thirst, their torment sore;", "The struggle pressed them harder than before."]}, {"id": "C3.31.6", "lines": ["They both dismounted, grappled on the plain,", "And raised the dust of vengeance in their strain."]}, {"id": "C3.31.7", "lines": ["Guraza reached with lion-hearted might,", "And brought Siamak down as wind in flight."]}, {"id": "C3.31.8", "lines": ["Then down he dashed him, all his bones gave way,", "And life departed from him where he lay."]}, {"id": "C3.31.9", "lines": ["Upon the horse he bound the lifeless frame,", "Then mounted, swift as an upsurging flame."]}, {"id": "C3.31.10", "lines": ["He led Siamak’s horse toward the height,", "And climbed as though made drunk by his delight."]}, {"id": "C3.31.11", "lines": ["He held his blessed banner high in pride,", "Rejoicing, with his fallen foe beside."]}, {"id": "C3.31.12", "lines": ["He left his horse and prayed that God would bring", "Good fortune and his blessing to the king."]}, {"id": "C3.32.1", "lines": ["Fourth, Foruhil and Zangula came to fight,", "Two lions loosed, two warriors fierce in might."]}, {"id": "C3.32.2", "lines": ["In truth, throughout the whole Iranian land,", "None matched Foruhil’s skill with bow in hand."]}, {"id": "C3.32.3", "lines": ["The grim-faced Turk, far off, came into sight;", "He strung his bow and drew the bowstring tight."]}, {"id": "C3.32.4", "lines": ["He showered shafts on Zangula with skill,", "And pressed from every side against him still."]}, {"id": "C3.32.5", "lines": ["One arrow struck the horse with all its might;", "It pierced both horse and rider in its flight;"]}, {"id": "C3.32.6", "lines": ["The fleet steed crashed down headlong in the fight,", "And pale Zangula tumbled from its height."]}, {"id": "C3.32.7", "lines": ["His head sank low; his life was swept away;", "His mother bore him for this evil day."]}, {"id": "C3.32.8", "lines": ["Then Foruhil dismounted by the dead", "And with his blade struck off Zangula’s head."]}, {"id": "C3.32.9", "lines": ["He stripped the Roman khaftan from the slain,", "And bared the body stretched upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.32.10", "lines": ["He bound the head fast to his saddle’s bands,", "Then took the charger’s reins into his hands."]}, {"id": "C3.32.11", "lines": ["He climbed the height, a leopard in his tread,", "With breast and hand and sword all drenched in red."]}, {"id": "C3.32.12", "lines": ["He raised the blessed banner he had brought;", "His heart rejoiced to gain the end he sought."]}, {"id": "C3.33.1", "lines": ["Fifth, Rohham, son of Gudarz, took his place", "And met bold Barman on the field, face to face."]}, {"id": "C3.33.2", "lines": ["Both seized their bows and took their shafts in hand,", "And horsemen’s war-cries rose across the land."]}, {"id": "C3.33.3", "lines": ["Their bows were shattered in the fierce attack;", "They then turned to spears and swords and fought back."]}, {"id": "C3.33.4", "lines": ["Both brave, both horsemen, shrewd and battle-tried,", "They met with all the skill that war supplied."]}, {"id": "C3.33.5", "lines": ["They wheeled and turned through many a fierce exchange;", "Then Rohham twisted, moving into range."]}, {"id": "C3.33.6", "lines": ["His spear struck Barman’s thigh with forceful might,", "And brought him from his horse amid the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.33.7", "lines": ["Like dust, then Barman parted from his foe;", "Rohham came on to deal another blow."]}, {"id": "C3.33.8", "lines": ["Again he drove the spearpoint home, and tore", "Clean through his back and liver to the core."]}, {"id": "C3.33.9", "lines": ["For Siavash, he dragged him from his place,", "Head downward, smearing blood upon the face."]}, {"id": "C3.33.10", "lines": ["He raised him to the saddle, bound him tight,", "As firm as stone, secured upon its height."]}, {"id": "C3.33.11", "lines": ["His head hung down; his feet below the girth", "Hung dangling toward the dust upon the earth."]}, {"id": "C3.33.12", "lines": ["He mounted, led the horse that bore the slain,", "And hurried to the place marked on the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.33.13", "lines": ["He climbed the height, rejoicing, free from pain;", "His heart released from sorrow’s heavy chain."]}, {"id": "C3.33.14", "lines": ["The Shah, the lofty throne, their fortune bright,", "Had brought him all he sought upon that height."]}, {"id": "C3.33.15", "lines": ["He blessed the world’s great Shah, of royal fame,", "And praised kind-hearted Kay Khosrow by name."]}, {"id": "C3.34.1", "lines": ["The sixth fight brought Bijan, brave Giv’s own son,", "Against Ruyin; their combat had begun."]}, {"id": "C3.34.2", "lines": ["They strung their bows and wheeled to left and right,", "Yet neither gained advantage in the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.34.3", "lines": ["Then Bijan raised his Roman gorz with force,", "And wheeling, closed face to face on his horse."]}, {"id": "C3.34.4", "lines": ["He found an opening and charged with might,", "His charger tore the earth in headlong flight."]}, {"id": "C3.34.5", "lines": ["He charged and struck Ruyin upon the head,", "And from his crown both blood and brains were shed."]}, {"id": "C3.34.6", "lines": ["There in the saddle Ruyin gave up life,", "Remembering Piran amid the strife."]}, {"id": "C3.34.7", "lines": ["He tumbled headlong from his horse, stone dead;", "Blood was his pillow, earth his final bed."]}, {"id": "C3.34.8", "lines": ["Before his youth had tasted life’s delight,", "He sought a gain, but lost his stake outright."]}, {"id": "C3.34.9", "lines": ["The world is full of fear and dread for all;", "Each rise is followed by a downward fall."]}, {"id": "C3.34.10", "lines": ["Bijan dismounted swiftly from his steed,", "And rushed like Ahriman with headlong speed."]}, {"id": "C3.34.11", "lines": ["He struck off Ruyin’s head with flashing blade;", "No grave was dug, no funeral shroud was laid."]}, {"id": "C3.34.12", "lines": ["His kamand hauled the dead man to the seat;", "No one remained to tend him in defeat."]}, {"id": "C3.34.13", "lines": ["He bound him as an elephant is tied,", "Then took the leading rope and turned aside."]}, {"id": "C3.34.14", "lines": ["He turned the reins and urged his flying steed", "Toward the hill and climbed with eager speed."]}, {"id": "C3.34.15", "lines": ["He held his lion banner raised on high,", "Its purple silk brocade against the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.34.16", "lines": ["“May victory attend the Shah,” he said,", "“And honor’s cap stay on Gudarz’s head!”"]}, {"id": "C3.35.1", "lines": ["Hajir rode seventh from the chosen band,", "A famous horseman, bold to make his stand."]}, {"id": "C3.35.2", "lines": ["Then Sipahram, Afrasiab’s own kin,", "A chief of rank and honor, now rode in."]}, {"id": "C3.35.3", "lines": ["He faced Gudarz’s son, whose skill and might", "No rider in the ranks could match in fight."]}, {"id": "C3.35.4", "lines": ["They charged; dark clouds of dust around them rose,", "As on the field the horsemen came to blows."]}, {"id": "C3.35.5", "lines": ["They crossed their swords and struck with all their power;", "From iron streamed the sparks, a blazing shower."]}, {"id": "C3.35.6", "lines": ["Brave Hajir, like a lion, pressed the fight,", "And faced Sipahram boldly in his might."]}, {"id": "C3.35.7", "lines": ["He called upon the Maker’s holy name,", "And through the monarch’s fortune struck like flame."]}, {"id": "C3.35.8", "lines": ["He struck the head and helm with one fell blow,", "And death at once laid bold Sipahram low."]}, {"id": "C3.35.9", "lines": ["He tumbled headlong, helpless, to the ground,", "And there, abased, in his own blood lay drowned."]}, {"id": "C3.35.10", "lines": ["Then Hajir swiftly leaped to earth and tied", "Dead Sipahram fast to his saddle’s side."]}, {"id": "C3.35.11", "lines": ["He mounted, took the other horse’s rein,", "And turned to lead it from the blood-soaked plain."]}, {"id": "C3.35.12", "lines": ["He climbed the hill and blessed his star so bright,", "And that glad ground upon the battle height."]}, {"id": "C3.35.13", "lines": ["His strength and fortune from the world’s lord flowed;", "Through wakeful luck was victory bestowed."]}, {"id": "C3.36.1", "lines": ["Eighth, Zangeh, son of Shavaran, rode out", "To meet Awkhast in their appointed bout."]}, {"id": "C3.36.2", "lines": ["That grim Turk, hardened by long years of strife,", "Had never yielded once in all his life."]}, {"id": "C3.36.3", "lines": ["Both seized their massive gorzes for the clash", "And swung them ready for the resounding crash."]}, {"id": "C3.36.4", "lines": ["They wheeled and hammered through the fierce affray,", "And strife between them passed all bounds that day."]}, {"id": "C3.36.5", "lines": ["Their weary warhorses could run no more,", "As though no vein could stir, so spent and sore."]}, {"id": "C3.36.6", "lines": ["The sun moved through the sky in blazing heat;", "Like iron burned the plain beneath their feet."]}, {"id": "C3.36.7", "lines": ["The warriors, spent, could scarcely stand or tread;", "Neither could move a single step ahead."]}, {"id": "C3.36.8", "lines": ["They spoke together, each in grave concern:", "“In all this heat, our very livers burn."]}, {"id": "C3.36.9", "lines": ["Let us take rest till strength has been restored,", "Then rise and meet each other with the sword.”"]}, {"id": "C3.36.10", "lines": ["They led their chargers to a resting ground,", "And there the weary horses’ feet were bound."]}, {"id": "C3.36.11", "lines": ["Thereafter, having rested, both arose,", "And armed again to face each other’s blows."]}, {"id": "C3.36.12", "lines": ["With lances poised, like flames the riders wheeled", "Around the center of the battlefield."]}, {"id": "C3.36.13", "lines": ["Then Zangeh saw his opening and sped", "Straight at Awkhast, his spearpoint aimed ahead."]}, {"id": "C3.36.14", "lines": ["His spear drove hard at Awkhast’s waist; the force", "Flung him face-first to earth from off his horse."]}, {"id": "C3.36.15", "lines": ["He shouted like the thunder’s sudden crack;", "The field itself seemed split by that attack."]}, {"id": "C3.36.16", "lines": ["Then Zangeh dismounted and seized his foe,", "And dragged him face-down through scorched dust below."]}, {"id": "C3.36.17", "lines": ["He heaved him up from where he struck the ground,", "Then flung him head-down, on the saddle bound."]}, {"id": "C3.36.18", "lines": ["He mounted his own horse and took the rein;", "What fate had overtaken Turan’s train!"]}, {"id": "C3.36.19", "lines": ["He left the plain and climbed the waiting height,", "A wolf-emblazoned banner raised in sight."]}, {"id": "C3.36.20", "lines": ["He came before his friends and praised the crown,", "And blessed the Pahlevan of high renown."]}, {"id": "C3.37.1", "lines": ["Gorgin rode ninth to claim revenge in fight,", "Against Andariman, a chief of might."]}, {"id": "C3.37.2", "lines": ["Two seasoned horsemen, both in battle tried,", "Chose where to fight and let their skill decide."]}, {"id": "C3.37.3", "lines": ["They wheeled with spears until the shafts gave out;", "Then both took up their bows to press the bout."]}, {"id": "C3.37.4", "lines": ["Their arrows rained while wolf-skin shields were raised,", "To guard their faces as the swift shafts blazed."]}, {"id": "C3.37.5", "lines": ["Like hail the shafts on wolf-skin bucklers crashed,", "On faces and on helmets rang and clashed."]}, {"id": "C3.37.6", "lines": ["A shaft from Gorgin pierced his rival’s breast", "And pinned his Roman helm fast to his chest."]}, {"id": "C3.37.7", "lines": ["As that brave rider reeled beneath the blow,", "Then Gorgin shot once more and laid him low."]}, {"id": "C3.37.8", "lines": ["The Turk went toppling headlong in his pain;", "Blood from his eyes poured out upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.37.9", "lines": ["Then Gorgin sprang down from his horse and sped", "To where he cut off Andariman’s head."]}, {"id": "C3.37.10", "lines": ["He bound the head against his saddle fast,", "Then mounted when the bloody work had passed."]}, {"id": "C3.37.11", "lines": ["He led the dead Turk’s charger up the hill,", "His bow upon his arm, its string taut still."]}, {"id": "C3.37.12", "lines": ["By God, his strength, his refuge and his shield,", "And by the Shah’s good fortune on the field,"]}, {"id": "C3.37.13", "lines": ["He came victorious from the field of fight,", "And raised his banner, filling hearts with light."]}, {"id": "C3.38.1", "lines": ["In the tenth fight two leaders met as foes:", "Bold Borteh and fierce Kuhram came to blows."]}, {"id": "C3.38.2", "lines": ["They galloped to the field to meet the test,", "Aflame with vengeance at the Shah’s behest."]}, {"id": "C3.38.3", "lines": ["They tried the arts of combat in their might,", "They drew their Indian swords, then closed in fight."]}, {"id": "C3.38.4", "lines": ["Then all at once Kuhram turned from his foe;", "Borteh struck hard with one tremendous blow."]}, {"id": "C3.38.5", "lines": ["He cleft Kuhram from helmet to the chest,", "And fear of Kuhram fled from Borteh’s breast."]}, {"id": "C3.38.6", "lines": ["Borteh sprang down and bound the corpse and slung", "It on the Tuzi saddle, where it hung."]}, {"id": "C3.38.7", "lines": ["He left the body lashed across its seat,", "And climbed into his saddle, work complete."]}, {"id": "C3.38.8", "lines": ["He climbed the hill, fierce, leopard-like, and proud,", "His Indian sword in hand, he roared aloud."]}, {"id": "C3.38.9", "lines": ["He held the blessed standard as he rode,", "While Kuhram hung head-down, the horse’s load."]}, {"id": "C3.38.10", "lines": ["He cried, “The Shah is victor, battle won;", "May his crown always reach the blazing sun!”"]}, {"id": "C3.39.1", "lines": ["When nine full hours of daylight had gone by,", "No other Turkish champion came to vie."]}, {"id": "C3.39.2", "lines": ["Their souls were severed from their bodies, torn;", "The world looked on, and did not stop to mourn."]}, {"id": "C3.39.3", "lines": ["The world may tend one man with patient love,", "And grant him years beneath the vault above;"]}, {"id": "C3.39.4", "lines": ["Then raid his joy, as night-raids strike a foe,", "And bring him grief and hardship, blow on blow."]}, {"id": "C3.39.5", "lines": ["From first to last, the wind bears all away;", "We call it justice; wrong stands plain as day."]}, {"id": "C3.39.6", "lines": ["When in those luckless fights Turan had bled,", "And every hope of victory had fled,"]}, {"id": "C3.39.7", "lines": ["Piran looked out across the field of fight;", "No Turkish horseman stood within his sight."]}, {"id": "C3.39.8", "lines": ["The leaders then of Iran and Turan", "Advanced together, each a Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C3.39.9", "lines": ["They came for grim revenge across the plain,", "With grief in heart and vengeance in the brain."]}, {"id": "C3.39.10", "lines": ["The two old warriors stood fiercely arrayed;", "Dust veiled the sun and cast the field in shade."]}, {"id": "C3.39.11", "lines": ["They tested every weapon hand to hand,", "With sword and khanjar, gorz, and with kamand."]}, {"id": "C3.39.12", "lines": ["The turn ordained by God now crossed the plain;", "On Turan fell the weight of Iran’s pain."]}, {"id": "C3.39.13", "lines": ["Against that will Piran could not contend;", "No stratagem could turn aside that end."]}, {"id": "C3.39.14", "lines": ["His steed beneath him faltered in the fight;", "Its failing limbs could give no further might."]}, {"id": "C3.39.15", "lines": ["Piran saw clearly how his fortune stood,", "And knew that heaven had withdrawn its good."]}, {"id": "C3.39.16", "lines": ["Yet still he bore himself with fearless breath,", "And strove against the shadow of his death."]}, {"id": "C3.39.17", "lines": ["The two old chiefs, both shrewd and seasoned men,", "Took up their bows and arrows once again."]}, {"id": "C3.39.18", "lines": ["Gudarz chose out a poplar shaft of might,", "No iron plate nor stone could stop its flight."]}, {"id": "C3.39.19", "lines": ["He shot with force and struck Piran’s steed;", "The arrow pierced its armor with great speed."]}, {"id": "C3.39.20", "lines": ["The stricken charger shuddered, drawing breath,", "Then crashed to earth beneath the weight of death."]}, {"id": "C3.39.21", "lines": ["Piran went crashing down beneath the horse.", "The rider struggled, trapped, crushed by its force."]}, {"id": "C3.39.22", "lines": ["His right arm broke beneath the crushing weight;", "He rolled, still struggling with the stroke of fate."]}, {"id": "C3.39.23", "lines": ["He rose upon his feet, though well he knew", "His final hour had now come into view."]}, {"id": "C3.39.24", "lines": ["He knew he could not flee that darkened day,", "Yet from Gudarz he turned and fled away."]}, {"id": "C3.39.25", "lines": ["He climbed the hill, distressed by wound and flight,", "And hoped Gudarz would leave him on the height."]}, {"id": "C3.39.26", "lines": ["Gudarz looked on, and bitter tears ran clear;", "The turns of fortune filled his heart with fear."]}, {"id": "C3.39.27", "lines": ["He knew the tyrant wheel’s deceitful art,", "How faithless, ever armed to wound the heart."]}, {"id": "C3.39.28", "lines": ["He cried: “Great Pahlevan, how can it be", "You flee on foot like hunted game from me?"]}, {"id": "C3.39.29", "lines": ["Where are your troops, O captain of the field?", "Where are your arms, your manhood, sword, and shield?"]}, {"id": "C3.39.30", "lines": ["Where are your treasure, wisdom, troops, and fame,", "O prop of Afrasiab’s royal name?"]}, {"id": "C3.39.31", "lines": ["The sun lowers darkly on your king today;", "From you has fortune turned her face away."]}, {"id": "C3.39.32", "lines": ["No room for guile remains; attempt it not.", "Ask quarter now, since this has come by lot."]}, {"id": "C3.39.33", "lines": ["I shall convey you living to his hall;", "The Shah may spare you and forgive it all."]}, {"id": "C3.39.34", "lines": ["Like me, your hair is silvered now with age;", "Your years may move him to restrain his rage.”"]}, {"id": "C3.39.35", "lines": ["Piran replied, “Now God forbid that shame;", "May no such evil stain my honored name."]}, {"id": "C3.39.36", "lines": ["May I not live to beg you for my breath;", "A noble heart would sooner welcome death."]}, {"id": "C3.39.37", "lines": ["Since born for death, my neck I freely lay", "Before you in this contest here today."]}, {"id": "C3.39.38", "lines": ["A saying I have heard from men of worth:", "‘However long you dwell in joy on earth,"]}, {"id": "C3.39.39", "lines": ["The end is death; no path can lead you clear", "Of that last hour, though long you linger here.’"]}, {"id": "C3.39.40", "lines": ["Then lay no blame upon me at my end;", "No man can turn the fate he must attend.”"]}, {"id": "C3.39.41", "lines": ["Gudarz rode round but found no upward way,", "The search had worn him out with long delay."]}, {"id": "C3.39.42", "lines": ["He left his horse and took his shield to go", "Like some determined hunter toward his foe."]}, {"id": "C3.39.43", "lines": ["His shield held forward, javelin in hand,", "He climbed the height above the lower land."]}, {"id": "C3.39.44", "lines": ["Piran watched him approach, his foe in sight;", "He sprang down from a rock to meet the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.39.45", "lines": ["He hurled his khanjar, arrow-swift in flight;", "It struck Gudarz’s arm upon the height."]}, {"id": "C3.39.46", "lines": ["The wounded chieftain wheeled to face his foe;", "He felt his anger blaze and fiercer grow."]}, {"id": "C3.39.47", "lines": ["He hurled his javelin; its iron head", "Struck Piran’s breast and through his armor sped."]}, {"id": "C3.39.48", "lines": ["It pierced his liver and came out behind;", "Piran reeled back, with darkness in his mind."]}, {"id": "C3.39.49", "lines": ["His liver’s blood poured from his mouth; he died,", "His soul gone to his fallen comrades’ side."]}, {"id": "C3.39.50", "lines": ["Like some fierce lion, headlong down he crashed;", "The javelin’s steel had left his liver gashed."]}, {"id": "C3.39.51", "lines": ["Upon the flinty rock he writhed in pain,", "Then rested from revenge and battle’s strain."]}, {"id": "C3.39.52", "lines": ["Thus fortune changes sides from day to day,", "And hears not what advisers have to say."]}, {"id": "C3.39.53", "lines": ["With poisoned claws, it tears the flesh apart", "The leopard’s hide and lion’s mighty heart."]}, {"id": "C3.39.54", "lines": ["Gudarz climbed to the summit; Piran lay", "Before him, dead and humbled on the clay."]}, {"id": "C3.39.55", "lines": ["His heart and arm were broken; on the field", "His head lay low, in spreading dust concealed."]}, {"id": "C3.39.56", "lines": ["His armor had been torn and split in strife;", "His belt lay broken with his ended life."]}, {"id": "C3.39.57", "lines": ["“O lion, chief and warrior bold,” he said,", "“Great horseman, now among the fallen dead,"]}, {"id": "C3.39.58", "lines": ["The world has seen so many like us two;", "It rests with neither me nor men like you.”"]}, {"id": "C3.39.59", "lines": ["He took the blood the fallen chief had bled,", "And drank, and on his face its stain he spread."]}, {"id": "C3.39.60", "lines": ["For Siavash’s blood he raised a cry,", "And prayed to Him who rules the earth and sky."]}, {"id": "C3.39.61", "lines": ["For seventy beloved sons laid low,", "He mourned before the Judge who saw his woe."]}, {"id": "C3.39.62", "lines": ["He wished to cut the fallen warrior’s head,", "But then he shrank from such wrong to the dead."]}, {"id": "C3.39.63", "lines": ["He set a banner by the corpse and laid", "The warrior’s head beneath its spreading shade."]}, {"id": "C3.39.64", "lines": ["He turned toward his army down below;", "Blood streamed from his arm like a river’s flow."]}, {"id": "C3.40.1", "lines": ["Meanwhile Iran’s avenging warriors came", "Down from the hill, each flushed with battle’s flame."]}, {"id": "C3.40.2", "lines": ["Their slain opponents, bound by war’s command,", "Were strapped on saddles, borne from bloodied land."]}, {"id": "C3.40.3", "lines": ["Since Pahlevan Gudarz was not in sight,", "From all the army rose a cry of fright:"]}, {"id": "C3.40.4", "lines": ["“Has age betrayed Gudarz upon the plain?", "Has fierce Piran now left him with the slain?”"]}, {"id": "C3.40.5", "lines": ["The troops wept, with no sign of their old chief,", "Their hearts bowed down beneath the weight of grief."]}, {"id": "C3.40.6", "lines": ["They saw his flag come streaming from the field;", "The drifting dust its folds no more concealed."]}, {"id": "C3.40.7", "lines": ["Then from the camp the kousts began to sound;", "Dust kissed the sky above the trampled ground."]}, {"id": "C3.40.8", "lines": ["The great men smiled and joyfully advanced,", "To meet him where his lifted standard danced."]}, {"id": "C3.40.9", "lines": ["Yet still the army questioned what had passed:", "“Perhaps he turned from Piran, heart downcast."]}, {"id": "C3.40.10", "lines": ["For Piran was a lion, fierce and strong,", "Who sought the field of battle all life long.”"]}, {"id": "C3.40.11", "lines": ["Gudarz addressed the warriors gathered near;", "And every man gave him attentive ear."]}, {"id": "C3.40.12", "lines": ["He told them how his fortune had been tried,", "And showed the place where he and Piran vied."]}, {"id": "C3.40.13", "lines": ["He bade brave Rohham mount and bring the slain;", "The warrior girt himself and took the rein."]}, {"id": "C3.40.14", "lines": ["“Go fetch Piran and bind him to his steed,", "Then bring him from the height with watchful heed."]}, {"id": "C3.40.15", "lines": ["Bring back his arms and banner from the place;", "Disturb no part about his waist or face.”"]}, {"id": "C3.40.16", "lines": ["As Gudarz bade, brave Rohham rode away,", "Swift as the wind, without the least delay."]}, {"id": "C3.40.17", "lines": ["He laid Piran’s body on the horse,", "His jowshan drenched with blood from battle’s course."]}, {"id": "C3.40.18", "lines": ["He bound him with his kamand, firm and fast,", "And brought him down to them, the combat past."]}, {"id": "C3.40.19", "lines": ["The chiefs beheld the banner from the height,", "Brought down from where it stood to mark the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.40.20", "lines": ["They blessed the chief of Pahlevans and cried,", "“O backbone of Iran, our strength and pride,"]}, {"id": "C3.40.21", "lines": ["May heaven’s moon bow low before your throne,", "And wait upon the seat you call your own."]}, {"id": "C3.40.22", "lines": ["For all the troops you risked your life and breath,", "And in old age stood face to face with death.”"]}, {"id": "C3.40.23", "lines": ["Gudarz addressed the chiefs upon the plain:", "“When heavy fighting brought us such great strain,"]}, {"id": "C3.40.24", "lines": ["I feared Afrasiab might bring his force", "Across the water to renew war’s course."]}, {"id": "C3.40.25", "lines": ["His troops have rested from the strain of fight,", "While haste and battle drain my soldiers’ might."]}, {"id": "C3.40.26", "lines": ["So I dispatched a prudent man to plead", "Before the Shah my counsel and my need."]}, {"id": "C3.40.27", "lines": ["I said, ‘If Turan’s king should cross in force,", "We cannot hold this field against his course.’"]}, {"id": "C3.40.28", "lines": ["I thought the world’s great Shah would soon appear,", "Arriving suddenly to join us here."]}, {"id": "C3.40.29", "lines": ["His royal glory would light up the plain,", "With fresh troops keen to join the fierce campaign."]}, {"id": "C3.40.30", "lines": ["Across this field of vengeance and of pain,", "Keep on their saddles all these warriors slain."]}, {"id": "C3.40.31", "lines": ["Our hearts are free from care through their defeat;", "For Siavash’s soul, this victory is sweet."]}, {"id": "C3.40.32", "lines": ["If thus we bring them to our sovereign’s sight,", "He will rejoice and raise us to new height."]}, {"id": "C3.40.33", "lines": ["These men sowed strife between us, far and wide;", "Their fall has checked the turmoil on each side."]}, {"id": "C3.40.34", "lines": ["When Khosrow comes, with God to aid his hand,", "No Turk shall then be left alive to stand.”"]}, {"id": "C3.40.35", "lines": ["All praised him: “May earth never lack your name;", "May time preserve the splendor of your fame."]}, {"id": "C3.40.36", "lines": ["Whatever good we gain, your words supply;", "Your face gives light to moon and sun on high.”"]}, {"id": "C3.40.37", "lines": ["They bore the slain just as the chief had said,", "While Gurvi ran beside them, bound, not dead."]}, {"id": "C3.40.38", "lines": ["A kamand bound his hands behind his back,", "His neck was haltered as they took the track."]}, {"id": "C3.40.39", "lines": ["As soon as they approached the waiting camp,", "The troops came forth; the ground rang with their tramp."]}, {"id": "C3.40.40", "lines": ["With Gostaham the Lion at their head,", "They came to meet the chief whom fortune led."]}, {"id": "C3.40.41", "lines": ["He bowed his head before Gudarz the brave,", "Then kissed the earth, and words of welcome gave:"]}, {"id": "C3.40.42", "lines": ["“See, I have kept the army safe and sound,", "True to the charge by which you held me bound.”"]}, {"id": "C3.40.43", "lines": ["While still they spoke, a watchman’s voice rang clear;", "From Mount Raibad his cry reached every ear:"]}, {"id": "C3.40.44", "lines": ["“The dust has made the plain as dark as night;", "An uproar rises, wondrous in its might."]}, {"id": "C3.40.45", "lines": ["The kousts and mighty karnays loudly sound;", "Their thunder seems to shift the very ground."]}, {"id": "C3.40.46", "lines": ["An elephant bears up a throne that gleams", "With turquoise, bright as Nile’s resplendent streams."]}, {"id": "C3.40.47", "lines": ["The air seems violet silk above their train;", "Bright, many-colored banners light the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.40.48", "lines": ["One glorious standard towers high and bright,", "Straight as a cypress, splendid to the sight."]}, {"id": "C3.40.49", "lines": ["Armored horsemen around that standard ride;", "The earth is violet, stretching far and wide."]}, {"id": "C3.40.50", "lines": ["Flag follows flag, with emblems raised on high:", "The dragon and the homa meet the eye."]}, {"id": "C3.40.51", "lines": ["If at this speed they keep upon their way,", "They will be here within another day.”"]}, {"id": "C3.41.1", "lines": ["High over Kanabad, the watchman gazed,", "And at the sight grew sorrowful, amazed."]}, {"id": "C3.41.2", "lines": ["He came to Lahhak, Farshidvard beside,", "With grief at heart and sighs he could not hide."]}, {"id": "C3.41.3", "lines": ["He cried to them, “Unless my troubled eyes", "Are dimmed by grief and show me only lies,"]}, {"id": "C3.41.4", "lines": ["God has brought ruin on Turan’s array;", "Our toil is dust, our strength has died away."]}, {"id": "C3.41.5", "lines": ["Iran’s victorious men descend the height,", "Each shouting, with a banner raised in sight."]}, {"id": "C3.41.6", "lines": ["Chief Piran’s flag is hanging, fallen low;", "I see his body drenched in blood and woe."]}, {"id": "C3.41.7", "lines": ["Those ten brave warriors who rode out today", "Went forth with Piran to the heated fray."]}, {"id": "C3.41.8", "lines": ["Their bloody bodies hang across their steeds;", "Head-down they lie, the end of all their deeds.”"]}, {"id": "C3.41.9", "lines": ["Iran’s brave champions rode there side by side,", "And reached Gostaham, flushed with battle’s pride."]}, {"id": "C3.41.10", "lines": ["From Raibad’s side rose dust, a darkened shroud;", "The plain was azure-dim beneath that cloud;"]}, {"id": "C3.41.11", "lines": ["The Kaviani standard stood on high", "Amid the ranks beneath the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "C3.41.12", "lines": ["Before it red and yellow caught the eye,", "With violet blazing as the ranks rode by."]}, {"id": "C3.41.13", "lines": ["The Shah’s own flag, karnays, tabiras come through,", "And all the earth turns ebony in hue."]}, {"id": "C3.41.14", "lines": ["Lahhak and Farshidvard climbed to the height,", "To reach the lookout with the field in sight."]}, {"id": "C3.41.15", "lines": ["They looked across the field from that bleak hill,", "And saw Piran, their lord, lie dead and still."]}, {"id": "C3.41.16", "lines": ["Their chief and brother lay with those beside,", "Ten chosen warriors, Turan’s lost pride."]}, {"id": "C3.41.17", "lines": ["There in the watchtower, grief-struck, they cried,", "And wailed aloud for blood and those who died:"]}, {"id": "C3.41.18", "lines": ["“O lion, chief of Turan’s horse and spear,", "Great Piran, once the head of warriors here,"]}, {"id": "C3.41.19", "lines": ["Our foes have gained the prize for which they toiled;", "For you the world has ended, dark and spoiled."]}, {"id": "C3.41.20", "lines": ["Who now will seek revenge for your lost breath?", "Who will pursue the path you kept till death?"]}, {"id": "C3.41.21", "lines": ["What ruin came on Afrasiab’s land,", "To shatter all that lay beneath his hand?"]}, {"id": "C3.41.22", "lines": ["We must behead ourselves and drown in blood,", "With sword and hand and body in one flood.”"]}, {"id": "C3.41.23", "lines": ["Yet when they called Piran’s last charge to mind,", "They checked the storm that made their reason blind."]}, {"id": "C3.41.24", "lines": ["Before he challenged Gudarz to the fray,", "To Farshidvard brave Piran spoke this way:"]}, {"id": "C3.41.25", "lines": ["“If I am slain, then leave the troops that day;", "Beside their ranks you must no longer stay."]}, {"id": "C3.41.26", "lines": ["Without me, on this field of bitter strife,", "The nobles will find little room for life."]}, {"id": "C3.41.27", "lines": ["No man of Viseh’s line will then remain", "With wisdom and good judgment in his brain."]}, {"id": "C3.41.28", "lines": ["If they should kill us on this field of pain,", "And bear our heads toward Iran with their train,"]}, {"id": "C3.41.29", "lines": ["Our troops will beg Gudarz their lives to spare;", "Do not abase yourselves in your despair."]}, {"id": "C3.41.30", "lines": ["Flee to the desert, and you may survive;", "Escape your foes and keep yourselves alive.”"]}, {"id": "C3.41.31", "lines": ["They went back to their camp, their eyes blood-red,", "Their hearts consumed by sorrow for the dead."]}, {"id": "C3.41.32", "lines": ["The army knew its shepherd lay in death;", "His flock was leaderless with his last breath."]}, {"id": "C3.41.33", "lines": ["All sorrowed, weeping in consuming fire,", "Their hearts burned through with grief that would not tire."]}, {"id": "C3.41.34", "lines": ["They came before the brothers in their grief,", "With hearts weighed down and finding no relief."]}, {"id": "C3.41.35", "lines": ["They said, “What shall we do, with him now gone,", "The backbone of our side, our shield withdrawn?"]}, {"id": "C3.41.36", "lines": ["Who now has heart to gird himself for fight,", "And fit an iron helmet firm and tight?”"]}, {"id": "C3.41.37", "lines": ["They answered, “Who can alter God’s command?", "Who can escape the fate His will has planned?"]}, {"id": "C3.41.38", "lines": ["So, fate had written for him on this plain:", "In bitter strife to fall among the slain."]}, {"id": "C3.41.39", "lines": ["The sword has severed life from flesh and bone;", "His body lies, its living spirit flown."]}, {"id": "C3.41.40", "lines": ["No burial shroud protects him from the dust,", "No grave receives the chief we used to trust."]}, {"id": "C3.41.41", "lines": ["His foes drag off his wounded body, red", "With blood upon his jowshan, breast, and head."]}, {"id": "C3.41.42", "lines": ["What was to be has been; Piran is dead.", "His toil and deeds like wind have passed and fled."]}, {"id": "C3.41.43", "lines": ["Alive, he was the pillar of our band,", "And kind to all who served beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "C3.41.44", "lines": ["He guarded all his troops from every foe;", "Beside them, even chiefs were counted low."]}, {"id": "C3.41.45", "lines": ["His good and ill belong to that far place;", "We trust he finds the favor of God’s grace."]}, {"id": "C3.41.46", "lines": ["He cared for us beyond his final breath,", "And won Gudarz’s pledge in case of death:"]}, {"id": "C3.41.47", "lines": ["‘If I am slain upon this field of pain,", "Seek no revenge upon the troops who remain."]}, {"id": "C3.41.48", "lines": ["But grant free passage homeward to them all.", "Set no ambush to bring about their fall.’"]}, {"id": "C3.41.49", "lines": ["Iran will honor every pact he sought.", "No fear of harm need trouble any thought."]}, {"id": "C3.41.50", "lines": ["Three courses only stand for us to choose;", "Hear me, and weigh what each of you may lose."]}, {"id": "C3.41.51", "lines": ["If you would seek safe quarter from the foe,", "Take counsel now on how you mean to go."]}, {"id": "C3.41.52", "lines": ["Or if you would return to your own lands,", "Take good and ill together in your hands."]}, {"id": "C3.41.53", "lines": ["If you propose to fight, prepare the spear,", "And dip its point in blood, devoid of fear."]}, {"id": "C3.41.54", "lines": ["Let us debate these paths from every view,", "But only God’s decree shall carry through."]}, {"id": "C3.41.55", "lines": ["If war is what your hearts would choose to face,", "Then on this battlefield hold fast your place."]}, {"id": "C3.41.56", "lines": ["For Piran asked the king to send him aid;", "An army for our help has been arrayed."]}, {"id": "C3.41.57", "lines": ["At any moment troops may reach this plain;", "Then we must seek revenge for all our slain."]}, {"id": "C3.41.58", "lines": ["If you intend to journey homeward, go;", "I think no foe will bar the road you know."]}, {"id": "C3.41.59", "lines": ["If you would seek the Shah’s protecting hand,", "Prepare to leave the place where now you stand."]}, {"id": "C3.41.60", "lines": ["If Iran draws your hearts, then make your start;", "Each man’s own body answers to his heart."]}, {"id": "C3.41.61", "lines": ["Do not expect us brothers to agree;", "From wrath our hearts will never once be free."]}, {"id": "C3.41.62", "lines": ["No man of Viseh’s race has lived unbound", "By warrior’s belt when battle raged around."]}, {"id": "C3.41.63", "lines": ["Obedient to Piran’s last command,", "We cross the desert toward Turan’s own land."]}, {"id": "C3.41.64", "lines": ["If Iran’s warriors occupy the road,", "We fight them while our strength can bear the load.”"]}, {"id": "C3.41.65", "lines": ["The Turks then heard the words the brothers said,", "And spoke of all the living and the dead:"]}, {"id": "C3.41.66", "lines": ["“Our captain and our chiefs of high renown", "Lie slaughtered, cast in such dishonor down."]}, {"id": "C3.41.67", "lines": ["Khosrow approaches with his royal train.", "Who dares to stay upon this battle-plain?"]}, {"id": "C3.41.68", "lines": ["Our steeds and weapons are of no avail;", "Escape on foot or wing must also fail."]}, {"id": "C3.41.69", "lines": ["No treasure and no captain now remain;", "No champion stands among us; they lie slain."]}, {"id": "C3.41.70", "lines": ["No strength for war, no road of flight is clear;", "Why must we fight ourselves by staying here?"]}, {"id": "C3.41.71", "lines": ["If we turn back, Gudarz and Shah will drive", "Their troops and elephants till none survive."]}, {"id": "C3.41.72", "lines": ["Not one of us will bring his life away,", "Or see his home and kin another day."]}, {"id": "C3.41.73", "lines": ["To ask for quarter now is no disgrace;", "The troops remain, with none to take his place."]}, {"id": "C3.41.74", "lines": ["Why fear the Turkish king? What strength has he?", "A handful of mere dust is all we see."]}, {"id": "C3.41.75", "lines": ["How kind the Shah of Iran is in deed,", "How tender to his army in its need!”"]}, {"id": "C3.42.1", "lines": ["When thus the men had answered, from their place", "The brothers rose, with grief on either face."]}, {"id": "C3.42.2", "lines": ["Lahhak and Farshidvard now understood:", "No fight for name or vengeance would do good."]}, {"id": "C3.42.3", "lines": ["The army spoke the truth; without a guide,", "A shepherdless flock cannot long abide."]}, {"id": "C3.42.4", "lines": ["They bade farewell, made ready, crossed the sand,", "Along the desert road, with flag in hand."]}, {"id": "C3.42.5", "lines": ["Their hearts held grief, their eyes with tears were red,", "As ten brave horsemen followed where they led."]}, {"id": "C3.42.6", "lines": ["Those noble warriors, ready for the fight,", "Rode with the brothers, men of proven might."]}, {"id": "C3.42.7", "lines": ["Iranian horsemen barred the desert way;", "Along that road the watchful outpost lay."]}, {"id": "C3.42.8", "lines": ["The Turks spurred on their chargers to attack;", "The outpost held its ground and turned them back."]}, {"id": "C3.42.9", "lines": ["A sudden, headlong battle shook the plain;", "The earth grew tulip-like with blood and stain;"]}, {"id": "C3.42.10", "lines": ["Those men fought like fierce lions in the fray,", "Seven of Iran’s warriors died that day."]}, {"id": "C3.42.11", "lines": ["No other Turkish rider kept his breath;", "The outpost gave their group of men to death,"]}, {"id": "C3.42.12", "lines": ["Except the two illustrious chiefs in flight,", "Who rode together from the field of fight."]}, {"id": "C3.42.13", "lines": ["The gallant brothers rode with steady rein,", "Like lions, side by side, across the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.42.14", "lines": ["Then from the lookout rang a warning cry:", "“O nobles, hear what now has passed nearby."]}, {"id": "C3.42.15", "lines": ["Two chiefs rode out from Turan’s ranks, with ten", "Brave horsemen, famed among the fighting men."]}, {"id": "C3.42.16", "lines": ["They struck our outpost, mixing earth with blood;", "The ground beneath the fighters drank the flood."]}, {"id": "C3.42.17", "lines": ["Seven of Iran’s men lay dead that day,", "Cut down in fighting on the guarded way."]}, {"id": "C3.42.18", "lines": ["Two Turkish chiefs escaped the deaths around;", "Girt for the road, they fled the bloodied ground.”"]}, {"id": "C3.42.19", "lines": ["Gudarz heard this and knew the two who fled", "Were Lahhak and Farshidvard, and he said:"]}, {"id": "C3.42.20", "lines": ["“They rode with heads held high; their hearts remain", "Unbroken by the fighting and its strain."]}, {"id": "C3.42.21", "lines": ["If they return to Turan from this plain,", "I fear our troops will suffer further pain."]}, {"id": "C3.42.22", "lines": ["Whoever seeks the Shah’s reward and grace,", "Let him don Roman helm and join the chase."]}, {"id": "C3.42.23", "lines": ["Pursue Lahhak and Farshidvard in flight;", "Raise dust from both beneath your sword’s fierce might.”"]}, {"id": "C3.42.24", "lines": ["Not one among Iran’s worn troops replied;", "Their strength was spent, their limbs by iron tried."]}, {"id": "C3.42.25", "lines": ["Then Gostaham alone spoke out that day,", "A fierce and wrathful lion in the fray:"]}, {"id": "C3.42.26", "lines": ["He told Gudarz: “O chief of lofty name,", "When to the Turkish field of war you came,"]}, {"id": "C3.42.27", "lines": ["You left me with tabiras, royal tent,", "To stand before the troops while others went."]}, {"id": "C3.42.28", "lines": ["You gave me charge while others sought renown;", "I had no share in winning battle’s crown."]}, {"id": "C3.42.29", "lines": ["Now I shall win the fame that others won,", "And take those warriors captive, one by one.”"]}, {"id": "C3.42.30", "lines": ["Gudarz smiled, and joy refreshed his heart;", "His face grew bright, and grief began to part."]}, {"id": "C3.42.31", "lines": ["He said, “The sun is less well-starred than you;", "Your fortune shines beyond its golden hue."]}, {"id": "C3.42.32", "lines": ["You are the lion, and your foe the prey,", "A helpless gur that cannot bar your way."]}, {"id": "C3.42.33", "lines": ["Go forth; may God the Maker be your aid;", "May three hundred like Lahhak feel your blade.”"]}, {"id": "C3.43.1", "lines": ["Then Gostaham put on his battle gear;", "He bade farewell to all the chieftains near."]}, {"id": "C3.43.2", "lines": ["He hurried forth to meet those Turks so proud,", "Against the two, beyond the waiting crowd."]}, {"id": "C3.43.3", "lines": ["The soldiers watched him go and spoke in fear:", "“Can Gostaham withstand both warriors here?”"]}, {"id": "C3.43.4", "lines": ["Now from Afrasiab, like a ship at sea,", "A Turkish force came answering Piran’s plea."]}, {"id": "C3.43.5", "lines": ["They rode to bring him aid, that gathered band,", "And pressed on to the plain of Daghui’s sand."]}, {"id": "C3.43.6", "lines": ["There came the news: “The champions’ fight has turned;", "Piran is dead.” Their hearts with sorrow burned."]}, {"id": "C3.43.7", "lines": ["The whole force turned; their tears began to run,", "As they rode back to serve the royal one."]}, {"id": "C3.43.8", "lines": ["Bijan heard Gostaham had gone to face", "Lahhak and Farshidvard in that lone chase."]}, {"id": "C3.43.9", "lines": ["He thought, “If he should reach Daghui’s plain,", "Those chiefs may strike him down among the slain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.43.10", "lines": ["Then grief for Gostaham oppressed his heart;", "He feared those two would tear his friend apart."]}, {"id": "C3.43.11", "lines": ["He mounted his own horse to make his way", "To where Gudarz stood with the troops that day."]}, {"id": "C3.43.12", "lines": ["He saw his grandfather and cried his name:", "“O Pahlevan of glory, rank, and fame,"]}, {"id": "C3.43.13", "lines": ["It ill accords with wisdom to consign", "A chief of ours to such a dark design,"]}, {"id": "C3.43.14", "lines": ["To send a loyal chief in vain to die,", "And lay the blame upon the turning sky."]}, {"id": "C3.43.15", "lines": ["Two valiant Turkish chiefs have crossed the sand,", "Like lions roaming through the desert land."]}, {"id": "C3.43.16", "lines": ["Both are braver than Houman and Piran,", "And nobles by the birthright of Turan."]}, {"id": "C3.43.17", "lines": ["Now Gostaham has ridden out to meet", "The two; I fear he rides to his defeat."]}, {"id": "C3.43.18", "lines": ["If from our line that lion should be slain,", "Our joy throughout Iran will turn to pain.”"]}, {"id": "C3.43.19", "lines": ["When old Gudarz had heard Bijan’s appeal,", "He heard sound counsel in that earnest zeal."]}, {"id": "C3.43.20", "lines": ["He paused to weigh the danger Bijan feared,", "And thought of all the harm that now appeared."]}, {"id": "C3.43.21", "lines": ["Then called aloud to all the gathered line:", "“Whoever seeks a warrior’s name to shine,"]}, {"id": "C3.43.22", "lines": ["Let him ride fast behind Gostaham’s steed,", "And give him aid in this most urgent need.”"]}, {"id": "C3.43.23", "lines": ["No man among the gathered warriors stirred;", "No rested helper spoke a single word."]}, {"id": "C3.43.24", "lines": ["Bijan said, “Save myself, no warrior here", "Will bring him aid or venture with the spear."]}, {"id": "C3.43.25", "lines": ["Who will step forward? None is tired of life;", "I must depart and join that urgent strife,"]}, {"id": "C3.43.26", "lines": ["Because his danger fills my heart with grief,", "And fills my face with tears beyond relief.”"]}, {"id": "C3.43.27", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “O lion-hearted youth,", "Untried by heat and cold, the world’s hard truth,"]}, {"id": "C3.43.28", "lines": ["Do you not see that victory crowns our side?", "Rush not, my son, where needless perils hide."]}, {"id": "C3.43.29", "lines": ["For Gostaham has fortune as his own;", "He will seize heads and crowns and royal throne."]}, {"id": "C3.43.30", "lines": ["Remain; I shall dispatch, to share his plight,", "A lion proven many times in fight."]}, {"id": "C3.43.31", "lines": ["He will ride forth to aid him, strike them dead,", "And lay in roadside dust each fallen head.”"]}, {"id": "C3.43.32", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “O wise and ardent chief,", "Aid must be sent while aid can bring relief,"]}, {"id": "C3.43.33", "lines": ["While he still lives; not when his life is past,", "And foes have raised his dust upon the blast."]}, {"id": "C3.43.34", "lines": ["When he lies slain and all his life is done,", "His fortune turned, his final course is run."]}, {"id": "C3.43.35", "lines": ["Let me arm now and hasten on this quest;", "His danger gives my heart no peace or rest."]}, {"id": "C3.43.36", "lines": ["This khanjar, blue as water, that I bear", "Shall serve to end the life you bid me spare."]}, {"id": "C3.43.37", "lines": ["If you forbid my going, I shall take", "My head off with this blade for his dear sake."]}, {"id": "C3.43.38", "lines": ["For if he dies, I shall not live behind;", "No plea of yours can change my settled mind.”"]}, {"id": "C3.43.39", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “Then go and join the strife,", "If you place such a paltry worth on life."]}, {"id": "C3.43.40", "lines": ["Since you still hunger for the deadly fight,", "Gird yourself now; delay no more your flight."]}, {"id": "C3.43.41", "lines": ["You have no pity for your father’s pain;", "You burn his liver with your constant strain."]}, {"id": "C3.43.42", "lines": ["You raise the dust from mountain summits high,", "And send their very earth into the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.43.43", "lines": ["Why should I fear you, seeking war this way?", "What dread have I of you? Go to the fray.”"]}, {"id": "C3.43.44", "lines": ["Bijan, with nothing more to say, bowed low,", "Then kissed the earth and turned away to go."]}, {"id": "C3.44.1", "lines": ["Bijan put on his jowshan, armed for strife,", "Then saddled Shabrang, swift and full of life."]}, {"id": "C3.44.2", "lines": ["News reached brave Giv that Bijan meant to ride", "Against Farshidvard, armed in battle’s pride."]}, {"id": "C3.44.3", "lines": ["Giv sprang upon his Arab steed and broke", "Across his path, as swiftly borne as smoke."]}, {"id": "C3.44.4", "lines": ["He seized his bridle, drew him to the side,", "And spoke in grief, to hold him back, and cried:"]}, {"id": "C3.44.5", "lines": ["“How often have I warned you, yet in vain!", "You give my heart no moment free from pain."]}, {"id": "C3.44.6", "lines": ["Where would you hasten now? Why grieve me so?", "Must every deed increase the pain I know?"]}, {"id": "C3.44.7", "lines": ["What must I do? For I am old and gray;", "Why must you pain my heart in every way?"]}, {"id": "C3.44.8", "lines": ["I have no other child to make me glad;", "I know no happiness when you are sad."]}, {"id": "C3.44.9", "lines": ["For ten long days and nights you held your seat,", "And drew your vengeful sword, the foe to meet."]}, {"id": "C3.44.10", "lines": ["Helm and jowshan have galled your flesh with pain;", "Will you be never sated with the slain?"]}, {"id": "C3.44.11", "lines": ["Since He who gives us good has granted grace,", "Let victory give rest in battle’s place."]}, {"id": "C3.44.12", "lines": ["Why thrust your head toward death with such rash trust?", "Can this one khanjar keep you from the dust?"]}, {"id": "C3.44.13", "lines": ["The man who gives his final end no thought", "Will never gain the worldly joy he sought."]}, {"id": "C3.44.14", "lines": ["Do not keep chasing fate; let haste subside.", "Already it is coming to our side."]}, {"id": "C3.44.15", "lines": ["For your old father’s sake, turn back today;", "Do not fill all my heart with dark dismay.”"]}, {"id": "C3.44.16", "lines": ["Then brave Bijan replied, “O father, you", "Are wise; men thought you held a sounder view."]}, {"id": "C3.44.17", "lines": ["Have you forgotten all we faced in fight?", "Why turn from justice and forsake the right?"]}, {"id": "C3.44.18", "lines": ["Know, father, that your counsel is not wise;", "Is Ladan’s battle banished from your eyes?"]}, {"id": "C3.44.19", "lines": ["Remember what brave Gostaham did there,", "And all the grief that he was glad to share."]}, {"id": "C3.44.20", "lines": ["Or how we shared all hardship, joy, and woe,", "The good and evil fortune could bestow?"]}, {"id": "C3.44.21", "lines": ["If by God’s providence the evil day", "Is near, no caution turns that doom away."]}, {"id": "C3.44.22", "lines": ["What has been written, caution cannot bend;", "Let this long argument now reach its end."]}, {"id": "C3.44.23", "lines": ["For I have pledged my life to this great deed;", "Do not restrain me now; let me proceed.”"]}, {"id": "C3.44.24", "lines": ["Then Giv replied, “Turn back; that would be best.", "If you will go, I too will join your quest."]}, {"id": "C3.44.25", "lines": ["Together we shall cross the hill and vale,", "And I will stand beside you without fail.”"]}, {"id": "C3.44.26", "lines": ["“Now God forbid,” Bijan replied again,", "“That we three chiefs should chase two frightened men."]}, {"id": "C3.44.27", "lines": ["Three warriors sprung from kings should never ride", "So far to hunt two men who fled our side."]}, {"id": "C3.44.28", "lines": ["So, by our bright-souled monarch’s life and head,", "By great Gudarz, whose fame is widely spread,"]}, {"id": "C3.44.29", "lines": ["And by the vengeance owed for Siavash slain,", "Turn back, and let me ride across the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.44.30", "lines": ["I will not heed your bidding to retreat,", "And leave this battle’s purpose incomplete.”"]}, {"id": "C3.44.31", "lines": ["Giv heard his words and blessed him on his way,", "Then turned, no longer bidding him to stay."]}, {"id": "C3.44.32", "lines": ["“May you return victorious and light,", "With heart set free and evil’s hand bound tight.”"]}, {"id": "C3.44.33", "lines": ["Bijan rode after Gostaham to share", "His happiness and sorrow, ease and care."]}, {"id": "C3.44.34", "lines": ["He hastened on along the distant way,", "To fight the riders of Turan’s array."]}, {"id": "C3.44.35", "lines": ["When Farshidvard and grim Lahhak had passed", "The river, they went speeding like the blast."]}, {"id": "C3.44.36", "lines": ["They covered seven farsang within an hour,", "And thought themselves beyond Iran’s power."]}, {"id": "C3.44.37", "lines": ["They found a running stream beside a glade,", "Where caravans could rest beneath the shade."]}, {"id": "C3.44.38", "lines": ["Inside were lions, birds, and roaming game,", "While trees and grass adorned the woodland frame."]}, {"id": "C3.44.39", "lines": ["They stopped to drink, their throats with thirst aflame;", "Then hunger rose and made its equal claim."]}, {"id": "C3.44.40", "lines": ["No grief or joy can silence hunger’s call;", "The hungry mouth stays open through them all."]}, {"id": "C3.44.41", "lines": ["They roamed the meadow, bringing down their prey,", "And many beasts before those hunters lay."]}, {"id": "C3.44.42", "lines": ["They lit a fire and ate kabab, then deep", "In weariness they turned their heads to sleep."]}, {"id": "C3.44.43", "lines": ["But grimly fortune held the pair oppressed;", "Lahhak slept; Farshidvard watched his brother’s rest."]}, {"id": "C3.45.1", "lines": ["The moon rose as the night grew dark and deep;", "The two sad brothers bowed their heads in sleep."]}, {"id": "C3.45.2", "lines": ["Then Gostaham arrived beside the place", "Where those two men had halted in their race."]}, {"id": "C3.45.3", "lines": ["His charger scented other steeds nearby,", "And to its fellows raised a ringing cry."]}, {"id": "C3.45.4", "lines": ["Then Lahhak’s charger answered with a neigh,", "As if gone mad, and gave their place away."]}, {"id": "C3.45.5", "lines": ["To wake Lahhak, then Farshidvard rushed in,", "And warned him that the onslaught would begin."]}, {"id": "C3.45.6", "lines": ["“Rise from your pleasant sleep and take your stand,", "And strike down evil fortune with your hand."]}, {"id": "C3.45.7", "lines": ["A sage once spoke a saying, wise and deep:", "‘The lion fleeing from a wolf may keep"]}, {"id": "C3.45.8", "lines": ["Beyond its claws; no wolf need seek him out,", "For his own fate will bring his fall about.’"]}, {"id": "C3.45.9", "lines": ["Rise now; a force from Iran blocks our road,", "And bars the open path by which we rode."]}, {"id": "C3.45.10", "lines": ["However far men fled or fast they sped,", "None ever fled the evil day ahead.”"]}, {"id": "C3.45.11", "lines": ["They mounted, left the meadow grass behind,", "And took the plain, their onward course to find."]}, {"id": "C3.45.12", "lines": ["They scanned the plain and pondered what to do,", "And how to shape the course they would pursue."]}, {"id": "C3.45.13", "lines": ["They saw brave Gostaham ride out alone;", "No other rider came; he rode his own."]}, {"id": "C3.45.14", "lines": ["The brothers raised their heads and knew his face,", "The warrior who had followed in their trace."]}, {"id": "C3.45.15", "lines": ["They spoke together: “See that lone man ride", "Against us all, with no one at his side."]}, {"id": "C3.45.16", "lines": ["He bears the banner of the brave in hand;", "It is but Gostaham who seeks our band."]}, {"id": "C3.45.17", "lines": ["Let us appear to flee before his sight,", "And draw him to this open plain to fight."]}, {"id": "C3.45.18", "lines": ["He will not slip our hands and ride away,", "Unless our evil fortune rules the day.”"]}, {"id": "C3.45.19", "lines": ["They wheeled across the plain; behind he flew,", "And on the fleeing pair he closer drew."]}, {"id": "C3.45.20", "lines": ["As Gostaham drew near, his battle-cry", "Rose like a raging lion’s to the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.45.21", "lines": ["He rained his poplar arrows in attack,", "While Farshidvard rode out to drive him back."]}, {"id": "C3.45.22", "lines": ["Then Gostaham’s sword struck his head; the blow", "Mixed brains with blood and laid the warrior low."]}, {"id": "C3.45.23", "lines": ["He fell and died; no longer could he stand,", "That famous son of Viseh’s warrior band."]}, {"id": "C3.45.24", "lines": ["When Lahhak saw his brother’s lifeless face,", "And knew his strife had ended in that place,"]}, {"id": "C3.45.25", "lines": ["He shook with grief; his sight grew dim with pain,", "And darkness veiled the world upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.45.26", "lines": ["He wearied of his life and strung his bow,", "Then drew it taut to answer blow with blow."]}, {"id": "C3.45.27", "lines": ["He shot at Gostaham; from either eye", "His tears poured down as arrows crossed the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.45.28", "lines": ["Their arrows flew, and neither shot in vain;", "Not one fell harmless on the dusty plain."]}, {"id": "C3.45.29", "lines": ["Both men were wounded; then their swords flashed bare", "And clashed, their fierce clang ringing through the air."]}, {"id": "C3.45.30", "lines": ["At last his chance to strike at Lahhak came;", "Gostaham drew rein, then charged with wrath aflame."]}, {"id": "C3.45.31", "lines": ["He struck Lahhak across the neck outright,", "And sent him headless tumbling from the fight."]}, {"id": "C3.45.32", "lines": ["His severed head rolled underfoot, as though", "A polo stick had sent it with a blow."]}, {"id": "C3.45.33", "lines": ["Such is the turning sky’s inconstant care:", "It loves its fosterlings, then leaves them bare."]}, {"id": "C3.45.34", "lines": ["Ask for its head; it sets a foot in place.", "Ask for its foot; the head confronts your face."]}, {"id": "C3.45.35", "lines": ["So deeply wounded, Gostaham stayed astride;", "He felt as though his frame would split inside."]}, {"id": "C3.45.36", "lines": ["Bent down upon the saddle, he rode on,", "And blood fell from him till his strength was gone."]}, {"id": "C3.45.37", "lines": ["He reached a spring beneath a leafy shade,", "Dismounted where the running water played."]}, {"id": "C3.45.38", "lines": ["He bound his horse there to a tree, then went", "Into the stream, his strength in battle spent."]}, {"id": "C3.45.39", "lines": ["He drank his fill and blessed Yazdan; then found", "The whole earth seemed to bind him to the ground."]}, {"id": "C3.45.40", "lines": ["His body split by swords, he writhed in pain,", "And rolled upon the dust of that bare plain."]}, {"id": "C3.45.41", "lines": ["He lay upon the dust in anguish sore,", "And called upon Yazdan whom men adore:"]}, {"id": "C3.45.42", "lines": ["“Almighty Ruler of the turning sphere,", "Move some friend’s heart and guide his footsteps here."]}, {"id": "C3.45.43", "lines": ["Stir one among those famous troops to rise,", "And come to where your wounded servant lies."]}, {"id": "C3.45.44", "lines": ["Let Bijan, son of Giv, be moved to care,", "And seek me in the grief and pain I bear."]}, {"id": "C3.45.45", "lines": ["Or send another warrior from that band,", "A gallant man to lend a helping hand."]}, {"id": "C3.45.46", "lines": ["Alive or dead, let him take me away,", "And bring me back to Iran’s own array."]}, {"id": "C3.45.47", "lines": ["Let all men know I earned a glorious name;", "This is my wish: I did not die in shame.”"]}, {"id": "C3.45.48", "lines": ["He groaned in pain through all the hours of night,", "Like a snake writhing in the dust till light."]}, {"id": "C3.46.1", "lines": ["When sunlight made the world grow bright and wide,", "Bijan came roaming through the meadow side."]}, {"id": "C3.46.2", "lines": ["He searched the meadow for his comrade’s trace,", "And looked through every path and open place."]}, {"id": "C3.46.3", "lines": ["Far off he saw a dun steed graze alone,", "Its rider gone, his whereabouts unknown."]}, {"id": "C3.46.4", "lines": ["It pranced and grazed, a leopard in its stride;", "Its bridle broke, its saddle turned aside."]}, {"id": "C3.46.5", "lines": ["The saddle and its gear hung upside down;", "Reins, stirrups, kamand stained a bloody brown."]}, {"id": "C3.46.6", "lines": ["The sight drove sense and reason from his brain;", "His cry rose like a lion’s roar of pain."]}, {"id": "C3.46.7", "lines": ["“O kind companion, generous of heart,", "Where have you fallen, from your friend apart?"]}, {"id": "C3.46.8", "lines": ["You broke my back; you tore my heart in two;", "Now I shall tear my life away for you."]}, {"id": "C3.46.9", "lines": ["What shall I say, and where now shall I go?", "What tricks has heaven played to bring you low?”"]}, {"id": "C3.46.10", "lines": ["He followed where the horse’s tracks had led,", "And found his friend beside the fountain-head."]}, {"id": "C3.46.11", "lines": ["There Gostaham lay fallen on the ground,", "His jowshan, helmet bloodied, dust around."]}, {"id": "C3.46.12", "lines": ["Bijan dismounted swiftly from Shabrang,", "And clasped his friend while cries of sorrow rang."]}, {"id": "C3.46.13", "lines": ["He stripped the Roman armor from his chest,", "And took the helmet from his wounded crest."]}, {"id": "C3.46.14", "lines": ["He scanned the wounds, still open to the air,", "And saw the harm of leaving them so bare."]}, {"id": "C3.46.15", "lines": ["The blood had drained away; his flesh was pale,", "His heart in pain, his spirit weak and frail."]}, {"id": "C3.46.16", "lines": ["He pressed his face against the wounds and stayed", "Beside his friend, lamenting, sore dismayed."]}, {"id": "C3.46.17", "lines": ["“O my good friend,” he cried, “in all this sphere,", "No other shared my sorrows, held me dear."]}, {"id": "C3.46.18", "lines": ["I should have sought you sooner in the fight,", "And reached you where you strove with all your might."]}, {"id": "C3.46.19", "lines": ["I might have helped you in your time of need,", "When Ahriman opposed you, deed for deed."]}, {"id": "C3.46.20", "lines": ["But now the foes have worked their savage will,", "And gained the very wish they sought to fill.”"]}, {"id": "C3.46.21", "lines": ["At Bijan’s words, brave Gostaham now stirred,", "And drew a breath before his voice was heard."]}, {"id": "C3.46.22", "lines": ["He said, “Good friend, do not destroy your heart;", "Do not consume yourself in sorrow’s smart."]}, {"id": "C3.46.23", "lines": ["Your grief hurts worse than death,” the warrior said;", "“Set your own helmet on the wounded head."]}, {"id": "C3.46.24", "lines": ["Find some means to bear me on the way,", "And bring me to the Shah without delay."]}, {"id": "C3.46.25", "lines": ["Let life remain in me until I see", "The monarch’s face; that is my only plea."]}, {"id": "C3.46.26", "lines": ["Then I shall have no fear of death ahead;", "The earth alone must be my final bed."]}, {"id": "C3.46.27", "lines": ["The man who dies when all his aims are won", "Is not dead wholly under heaven’s sun."]}, {"id": "C3.46.28", "lines": ["As for those two base cowards lying dead,", "Whom God through me has struck and left blood-red,"]}, {"id": "C3.46.29", "lines": ["Lift them to saddles if you can; instead,", "If that should fail, from each cut off the head."]}, {"id": "C3.46.30", "lines": ["Bear off their heads and weapons from this site,", "Then all may know the truth about this fight."]}, {"id": "C3.46.31", "lines": ["Tell too the Shah I did not die in vain,", "Nor throw my head away upon this plain."]}, {"id": "C3.46.32", "lines": ["I strove with fortune, striving for a name;", "I did not pause upon the road to fame.”"]}, {"id": "C3.46.33", "lines": ["He pointed out the two Turks far away,", "Both slain and lying where their bodies lay."]}, {"id": "C3.46.34", "lines": ["Then weakness seized him as his words grew few;", "Bijan bent over him; his sorrow grew."]}, {"id": "C3.46.35", "lines": ["He brought the horse and loosened up its girth,", "Beside the wounded man upon the earth."]}, {"id": "C3.46.36", "lines": ["He spread the saddle felt across his friend,", "And mourned the wounds that he must try to mend."]}, {"id": "C3.46.37", "lines": ["He tore his shirt for bandages, laid bare", "Each wound, and bound it, crying in despair."]}, {"id": "C3.46.38", "lines": ["Then, grief within his soul, he climbed the hill,", "And scanned the desert, anxious, sharp, and still."]}, {"id": "C3.46.39", "lines": ["He spied some scattered Turkish horsemen ride", "The desert road, their spirits terrified."]}, {"id": "C3.46.40", "lines": ["Like lightning down the slope he rode in dread", "That Gostaham might soon lie cold and dead."]}, {"id": "C3.46.41", "lines": ["Two frightened riders fell beneath his blade;", "He slew them in the sudden charge he made."]}, {"id": "C3.46.42", "lines": ["He loosed his kamand from the saddle’s side,", "And caught another by the neck mid-stride."]}, {"id": "C3.46.43", "lines": ["He flung him down, yet spared his life that day,", "And gained a helper for the homeward way."]}, {"id": "C3.46.44", "lines": ["Then swiftly toward the fallen chiefs he sped,", "To Lahhak and Farshidvard, lying dead."]}, {"id": "C3.46.45", "lines": ["He saw the chiefs upon the earth, brought low,", "Their bodies drenched in blood from every blow."]}, {"id": "C3.46.46", "lines": ["Their war-steeds stood beside them on the plain,", "And grazed at ease where both their lords lay slain."]}, {"id": "C3.46.47", "lines": ["He praised the vengeance Gostaham had done,", "And blessed the warrior for the triumph won."]}, {"id": "C3.46.48", "lines": ["He bade the man that he had granted life", "Lift up the chiefs who lay there after strife."]}, {"id": "C3.46.49", "lines": ["They bound them hand and foot and round the waist,", "And on the saddles, crosswise, they were placed."]}, {"id": "C3.46.50", "lines": ["Then back to Gostaham he sped away,", "Like a fierce leopard charging at its prey."]}, {"id": "C3.46.51", "lines": ["He sprang down, lifted Gostaham with heed,", "And gently set him on the waiting steed."]}, {"id": "C3.46.52", "lines": ["He bade the captive mount and hold him tight,", "And clasp the wounded warrior upright."]}, {"id": "C3.46.53", "lines": ["He urged the dun horse gently down the track,", "And blessed his friend upon its swaying back."]}, {"id": "C3.46.54", "lines": ["Bijan rode on with sorrow in his breast,", "His heart with grief for Gostaham oppressed."]}, {"id": "C3.46.55", "lines": ["He hoped to reach the Shah before death came,", "And bring his friend alive from battle’s flame."]}, {"id": "C3.47.1", "lines": ["The day was ten hours old; the sun bent low,", "And left the vault of heaven’s fading glow."]}, {"id": "C3.47.2", "lines": ["Then Kay Khosrow, the crowned Shah, reached the field,", "In royal splendor, glory all revealed."]}, {"id": "C3.47.3", "lines": ["The chiefs, the nobles, warriors, and wise", "Went out on foot to meet him with raised eyes."]}, {"id": "C3.47.4", "lines": ["The sages blessed him, praising his renown:", "“Chief of Mobadan, bearer of the crown!”"]}, {"id": "C3.47.5", "lines": ["An elephant seemed captive in one hand;", "The other poured its bounty through the land."]}, {"id": "C3.47.6", "lines": ["Like Bahman’s cloud, he poured a generous rain;", "His justice flowed like Nile across the plain."]}, {"id": "C3.47.7", "lines": ["Khosrow stayed mounted so his men might see", "His face before them in its majesty."]}, {"id": "C3.47.8", "lines": ["He blessed the warriors gathered on the field:", "“Through you may earth its rich abundance yield.”"]}, {"id": "C3.47.9", "lines": ["Behind the troops, as steadfast as a hill,", "Gudarz came on, his followers at his will."]}, {"id": "C3.47.10", "lines": ["They bore the ten slain champions from the fight,", "Brought by the Shah’s own warriors to his sight."]}, {"id": "C3.47.11", "lines": ["The champions followed at the army’s rear,", "Then hailed Khosrow when they had drawn near."]}, {"id": "C3.47.12", "lines": ["They brought the slain, their heads bent downward low,", "Their limbs and armor stained by blood’s dark flow."]}, {"id": "C3.47.13", "lines": ["Gudarz saw Khosrow from afar and came", "On foot, with words of praise upon his name."]}, {"id": "C3.47.14", "lines": ["He rolled in dust before his sovereign king,", "His voice in praise before the Shah would ring."]}, {"id": "C3.47.15", "lines": ["He showed the slain and named each warrior’s foe,", "And told the Shah how each had been brought low."]}, {"id": "C3.47.16", "lines": ["Giv brought in Gurvi, son of Zereh, bound,", "Before the chief of Iran, famed and crowned."]}, {"id": "C3.47.17", "lines": ["Khosrow beheld him; from his breast there came", "A cold, deep sigh at Gurvi’s sight and name."]}, {"id": "C3.47.18", "lines": ["He left his steed and praised Yazdan on high,", "Who grants the victor strength beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.47.19", "lines": ["“Praise be to God, our refuge and our stay,", "Who gave us might and victory today.”"]}, {"id": "C3.47.20", "lines": ["The Shah stood up in prayer and then bowed down,", "And from his head removed the Kayanian crown."]}, {"id": "C3.47.21", "lines": ["He blessed Gudarz, the chiefs and fighting men,", "Whose loyal hearts had served him once again."]}, {"id": "C3.47.22", "lines": ["He said: “Famed warriors, born to fortunate days,", "You are the fire; your foes, dry reeds ablaze."]}, {"id": "C3.47.23", "lines": ["May great Gudarz and all his kindred find", "A joyful heart and happiness of mind."]}, {"id": "C3.47.24", "lines": ["My treasure and my kingship you shall share;", "My right hand’s help is yours in every care."]}, {"id": "C3.47.25", "lines": ["You gave your lives and bodies for my sake,", "And made the breath of mighty Turan break.”"]}, {"id": "C3.47.26", "lines": ["He viewed the slain; then Piran met his sight,", "The chieftain fallen in the bitter fight."]}, {"id": "C3.47.27", "lines": ["Remembering all the kindness Piran showed,", "His tears poured down beneath that sorrow’s load."]}, {"id": "C3.47.28", "lines": ["His heart for Piran burned, by grief possessed,", "As though a fire had kindled in his breast."]}, {"id": "C3.47.29", "lines": ["His face was stained with tears of blood; he cried,", "And spoke above the noble chieftain’s side:"]}, {"id": "C3.47.30", "lines": ["“Ill fortune is a dragon; with its breath", "It snares the raging lion, bringing death."]}, {"id": "C3.47.31", "lines": ["No valor frees a man caught in its jaw;", "Such is this dragon with its sharpened claw."]}, {"id": "C3.47.32", "lines": ["You labored hard for me throughout your life,", "And bore my burdens through Turan’s strife."]}, {"id": "C3.47.33", "lines": ["You grieved for Siavash and mourned his fall;", "In those days you had harmed no man at all."]}, {"id": "C3.47.34", "lines": ["You were our friend, yet turned into our foe,", "And filled Iran with fear and bitter woe."]}, {"id": "C3.47.35", "lines": ["Ahriman drew your heart from honor’s side,", "And turned your wisdom toward a darker tide."]}, {"id": "C3.47.36", "lines": ["Often I warned you, measuring each word,", "But you refused the counsel that you heard."]}, {"id": "C3.47.37", "lines": ["You would not leave Afrasiab’s command,", "And now his thanks are death across this land."]}, {"id": "C3.47.38", "lines": ["We wished to grant you honor, throne, and crown,", "Not leave you dead and bloodied, stricken down."]}, {"id": "C3.47.39", "lines": ["But matters passed beyond what we designed;", "And heaven turned against you, grim, unkind."]}, {"id": "C3.47.40", "lines": ["Wrong took the place of love within your heart,", "And turned your face from us and drew us apart."]}, {"id": "C3.47.41", "lines": ["You led your troops against us; by your blade,", "Iran’s brave warriors in the dust were laid."]}, {"id": "C3.47.42", "lines": ["You spurned Gudarz, my counsel, and the rest,", "And cast my warriors’ words from out your breast."]}, {"id": "C3.47.43", "lines": ["You spoiled pure love; the nush-daru you knew", "You mixed with poison, false to what was true."]}, {"id": "C3.47.44", "lines": ["When you came out from proud Turan to fight,", "Gudarz’s dart bore death within its flight."]}, {"id": "C3.47.45", "lines": ["Your son and brother, crown and belt and land,", "Your arms and army, all at your command,"]}, {"id": "C3.47.46", "lines": ["For love of Afrasiab, all you gave;", "How swiftly time has brought you to the grave!”"]}, {"id": "C3.47.47", "lines": ["He ordered musk and camphor, pure and fine,", "With ambergris and rosewater to combine."]}, {"id": "C3.47.48", "lines": ["They smeared his body with the balm they spread,", "And packed the musk and camphor in his head."]}, {"id": "C3.47.49", "lines": ["They wrapped his pure flesh in brocade from Rum,", "Though impure judgment in his mind found room."]}, {"id": "C3.47.50", "lines": ["He raised the tomb toward the turning sky,", "A house for fallen chiefs of station high."]}, {"id": "C3.47.51", "lines": ["Within, the royal thrones stood high and grand,", "For princes fit such honor to command."]}, {"id": "C3.47.52", "lines": ["They seated Piran on the throne of state,", "With belt and crown, in honor of the great."]}, {"id": "C3.47.53", "lines": ["Such is the world and all its faithless art:", "It lifts men high, then tears their height apart."]}, {"id": "C3.47.54", "lines": ["The wise are left bewildered by its ways,", "And stand amazed through all its changing days."]}, {"id": "C3.47.55", "lines": ["Khosrow then looked on Gurvi, Zereh’s son,", "And sighed at all the evil he had done."]}, {"id": "C3.47.56", "lines": ["He saw that loathsome face, the hanging hair,", "Like some foul Div’s, a sight too grim to bear."]}, {"id": "C3.47.57", "lines": ["He said, “Creator, all is known to You,", "The hidden and the things laid plain to view."]}, {"id": "C3.47.58", "lines": ["Kavus had surely done some grievous wrong,", "Offending You, to whom all things belong,"]}, {"id": "C3.47.59", "lines": ["To loose on Siavash this Div of hate;", "What rancor brought about so cruel a fate?"]}, {"id": "C3.47.60", "lines": ["But by the one God’s triumph and His might,", "Yazdan who guides the world and gives it light,"]}, {"id": "C3.47.61", "lines": ["Yazdan who grants us good and shows the way,", "I shall pursue this blood-debt, come what may."]}, {"id": "C3.47.62", "lines": ["From Afrasiab I shall claim the debt", "Of Siavash’s blood, unpaid as yet.”"]}, {"id": "C3.47.63", "lines": ["He ordered Gurvi’s sinews stripped away,", "Drawn joint by joint from where the captive lay."]}, {"id": "C3.47.64", "lines": ["Then, as men slaughter sheep, they took his head;", "His severed joints lay slack, his life had fled."]}, {"id": "C3.47.65", "lines": ["He bade them cast him in the water’s flow:", "“Thus Afrasiab too shall fall as low.”"]}, {"id": "C3.48.1", "lines": ["The Shah remained upon the field to see", "His army furnished as it ought to be."]}, {"id": "C3.48.2", "lines": ["He granted kingdoms, robes, and crowns of worth,", "To those whose deeds had earned renown on earth."]}, {"id": "C3.48.3", "lines": ["To old Gudarz he granted Isfahan,", "A crown and throne to grace the Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "C3.48.4", "lines": ["And all who won distinction in the fight", "Received rich robes, each as his share by right."]}, {"id": "C3.48.5", "lines": ["Then from the Turkish troops upon the plain,", "Whom Piran once had led through war and pain,"]}, {"id": "C3.48.6", "lines": ["A prudent envoy came before the throne,", "And made his comrades’ plea for mercy known."]}, {"id": "C3.48.7", "lines": ["“We are the Shah’s own servants, slaves in need;", "We take no step unless his will shall lead."]}, {"id": "C3.48.8", "lines": ["No man escapes the fate that God commands,", "Though in a dragon’s very jaws he stands."]}, {"id": "C3.48.9", "lines": ["The monarch knows us well and knows our plight,", "And why we armed ourselves to join this fight."]}, {"id": "C3.48.10", "lines": ["The case of Siavash was not our fault;", "Ahriman drove our king to that assault."]}, {"id": "C3.48.11", "lines": ["Our foolish king has cast all shame aside", "Before the great; the fear of God has died."]}, {"id": "C3.48.12", "lines": ["Since then our grief has never found release,", "Our tear-worn cheeks have never tasted peace."]}, {"id": "C3.48.13", "lines": ["In Turan all our homes are filled with grief;", "Our wives and children mourn without relief."]}, {"id": "C3.48.14", "lines": ["Not from a lust for battle did we ride,", "But for our houses and land we took this side."]}, {"id": "C3.48.15", "lines": ["This war has brought us sorrow, every one;", "Full many fathers now lament a son."]}, {"id": "C3.48.16", "lines": ["And sons are left without their fathers’ care;", "Such is the grief our broken households bear."]}, {"id": "C3.48.17", "lines": ["If you give quarter, we shall bow today,", "And serve before your throne in every way."]}, {"id": "C3.48.18", "lines": ["We stand within the nahang’s darkened maw,", "At war with those who serve your crown and law."]}, {"id": "C3.48.19", "lines": ["Yet many chiefs are in our army still,", "All well worthy to obey your regal will."]}, {"id": "C3.48.20", "lines": ["We are at fault, and you are sovereign here;", "Whatever you command, we shall revere."]}, {"id": "C3.48.21", "lines": ["We will bring all our chiefs before your throne,", "And beg forgiveness for the guilt we own."]}, {"id": "C3.48.22", "lines": ["If in your heart the old revenge still spreads,", "The custom is to take your foemen’s heads."]}, {"id": "C3.48.23", "lines": ["Yet better if your mercy lets us live;", "Do what your royal judgment bids you give.”"]}, {"id": "C3.48.24", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow had heard their speech of grief,", "He pardoned them and granted them relief."]}, {"id": "C3.48.25", "lines": ["He called them all before his royal seat;", "They came in hope of mercy at his feet."]}, {"id": "C3.48.26", "lines": ["They laid their humbled heads upon the ground,", "Their eyes ran blood; their hearts in vengeance drowned."]}, {"id": "C3.48.27", "lines": ["The monarch turned to God for aid and cried:", "“Almighty Judge, our Helper and our Guide,"]}, {"id": "C3.48.28", "lines": ["From You I hold my throne and royal might;", "From You come love and all my splendor’s light."]}, {"id": "C3.48.29", "lines": ["These are the troops who came with vengeance fed,", "To grind Iran to dust beneath their tread."]}, {"id": "C3.48.30", "lines": ["They scattered everywhere the biting bane,", "And flung chiefs’ heads across the wounded plain."]}, {"id": "C3.48.31", "lines": ["The righteous God has stripped them of their might,", "Of wit and counsel, feet and wings for flight."]}, {"id": "C3.48.32", "lines": ["To Him I stretch my hands; His aid is all;", "On no one else throughout the world I call."]}, {"id": "C3.48.33", "lines": ["A wise man, armed for battle in full force,", "Spoke thus while mounting on his saddled horse:"]}, {"id": "C3.48.34", "lines": ["‘This charger is a shining throne I ride;", "My wakeful fortune now must be my guide."]}, {"id": "C3.48.35", "lines": ["In vengeance I may win a crown and throne,", "Or claim a teakwood coffin for my own."]}, {"id": "C3.48.36", "lines": ["Or else a leopard’s claws may hold me dead,", "And vultures eat the brains within my head.’"]}, {"id": "C3.48.37", "lines": ["Your evil deeds recoil on you alone,", "As every wise man surely must have known."]}, {"id": "C3.48.38", "lines": ["I do not stain my hands with blood you bleed,", "Nor press you harshly in your hour of need."]}, {"id": "C3.48.39", "lines": ["You are within my shelter, one and all,", "However much you fought to make me fall."]}, {"id": "C3.48.40", "lines": ["Whoever wishes may remain with me;", "I count no gain or loss in this decree."]}, {"id": "C3.48.41", "lines": ["Whoever wishes may his king regain;", "I shall not block his road or draw his rein."]}, {"id": "C3.48.42", "lines": ["By God’s great strength, I have no need of more,", "No lust for toil, no hunger after store.”"]}, {"id": "C3.48.43", "lines": ["The Turks then heard the royal speech and bowed,", "Removed their helms, and yielded in the crowd."]}, {"id": "C3.48.44", "lines": ["They owned the Shah’s great victory, bowed in fear;", "Those fighting leopards now were gentle deer."]}, {"id": "C3.48.45", "lines": ["They piled their bargostvans upon the ground,", "With Roman helmets gathered in a mound."]}, {"id": "C3.48.46", "lines": ["The world’s Shah ordered them to yield their gear,", "To bring each sword and lance and pointed spear."]}, {"id": "C3.48.47", "lines": ["Around the heap they raised their banners high,", "In yellow, red, and violet to the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.48.48", "lines": ["They swore: “Through life the Shah alone we serve;", "Bound by our oaths before him, none will swerve."]}, {"id": "C3.48.49", "lines": ["We are his servants, bound to his command;", "Our hearts are filled with love throughout the band.”"]}, {"id": "C3.48.50", "lines": ["Once all had sworn their oaths before his throne,", "The Shah forgave the guilt that was their own."]}, {"id": "C3.48.51", "lines": ["Then through his realm he settled every clan,", "And peopled all his country, man by man."]}, {"id": "C3.49.1", "lines": ["Then from the lookout rose a sudden cry:", "“The dust of horsemen climbs into the sky."]}, {"id": "C3.49.2", "lines": ["I see three burdened steeds upon the plain:", "Two corpses bound, a rider in their train.”"]}, {"id": "C3.49.3", "lines": ["All Iran’s chiefs looked down the distant way;", "In wonder they surveyed the strange array."]}, {"id": "C3.49.4", "lines": ["“Who comes from Turan’s land with such bold tread,", "And dares to ride where vengeance heaped the dead?”"]}, {"id": "C3.49.5", "lines": ["Then Bijan came in haste; his bow was strung,", "And by its string upon his forearm hung."]}, {"id": "C3.49.6", "lines": ["Lahhak and Farshidvard, in blood and clay,", "Hung head-down on the steeds along the way."]}, {"id": "C3.49.7", "lines": ["A third horse carried Gostaham, close pressed", "In the Turk’s arms, with sorrow in his breast."]}, {"id": "C3.49.8", "lines": ["Bijan drew near; the royal crown shone bright", "Above the lofty throne before his sight."]}, {"id": "C3.49.9", "lines": ["He kissed the earth and bowed his noble head;", "Khosrow rejoiced to see him there and said:"]}, {"id": "C3.49.10", "lines": ["“O lion-hearted warrior, let me know", "Where from the battlefield you chose to go.”"]}, {"id": "C3.49.11", "lines": ["Then Bijan told of Gostaham’s great pain,", "Of Farshidvard and fierce Lahhak slain."]}, {"id": "C3.49.12", "lines": ["He told of all the horsemen’s deeds that day,", "And Gostaham’s distress throughout the fray."]}, {"id": "C3.49.13", "lines": ["He said: “One final wish remains today,", "A wish the Shah can grant without delay."]}, {"id": "C3.49.14", "lines": ["He longs to look once more upon your face,", "Then, should he die, accept it with good grace.”"]}, {"id": "C3.49.15", "lines": ["The Shah commanded: “Bring him here to me.”", "They bore him forward for the king to see."]}, {"id": "C3.49.16", "lines": ["The monarch’s heart contracted with the pain;", "His lashes shed their tears like drops of rain."]}, {"id": "C3.49.17", "lines": ["The wounds had left brave Gostaham so low,", "It seemed his breath had ceased to come and go."]}, {"id": "C3.49.18", "lines": ["He sensed the Shah’s love, fragrant in the air,", "And turned his eyes toward him, lying there."]}, {"id": "C3.49.19", "lines": ["With tears of love the wounded warrior cried;", "And tears of blood the monarch could not hide."]}, {"id": "C3.49.20", "lines": ["The nobles wept; their grief was fierce and dire,", "As though their flesh were roasting in the fire."]}, {"id": "C3.49.21", "lines": ["The Shah grieved lest that warrior meet his doom,", "His helm-clad head, war’s anvil, face the tomb."]}, {"id": "C3.49.22", "lines": ["From Hushang, Tahmuras, and Jamshid’s reign,", "The Shah received a charm that healed all pain."]}, {"id": "C3.49.23", "lines": ["That amulet, the wounded warrior’s aid,", "Was on his arm through months and years displayed."]}, {"id": "C3.49.24", "lines": ["Moved by his love, he freed the healing charm", "From where he wore it on his own right arm."]}, {"id": "C3.49.25", "lines": ["He bound it on the hero’s arm to wear,", "Then stroked the wounds his battered flesh laid bare."]}, {"id": "C3.49.26", "lines": ["From Rum, Hind, Chin, Turan, and Iran’s land,", "The Shah had gathered healers to his hand."]}, {"id": "C3.49.27", "lines": ["He kept them ready for such need and pain;", "Beside the chief he seated all their train."]}, {"id": "C3.49.28", "lines": ["He chanted spells, then sought the place of prayer,", "And long communed with his Creator there."]}, {"id": "C3.49.29", "lines": ["Two weeks passed by with Gostaham in bed,", "Until his strength returned and sorrow fled."]}, {"id": "C3.49.30", "lines": ["They brought him mounted to the royal throne,", "And Khosrow saw his strength and health had grown."]}, {"id": "C3.49.31", "lines": ["He said: “Through God’s own grace we prosper now;", "Good fortune shines again upon our brow."]}, {"id": "C3.49.32", "lines": ["Yet marvel how my wish has turned out right,", "How straight my course is drawn beneath His might."]}, {"id": "C3.49.33", "lines": ["Though victory came, our joy was veiled in grief,", "For Gostaham’s deep wounds denied relief."]}, {"id": "C3.49.34", "lines": ["This is the great Provider’s grace alone,", "Not strength or wisdom we can call our own.”"]}, {"id": "C3.49.35", "lines": ["He summoned Bijan, Giv’s courageous son,", "And joined their hands when healing had been won."]}, {"id": "C3.49.36", "lines": ["He said: “You know your God; your star shines clear;", "For your own life you need not harbor fear."]}, {"id": "C3.49.37", "lines": ["He is the everlasting help of all;", "No other takes our hands when hardships fall."]}, {"id": "C3.49.38", "lines": ["If ever God restored the dead to breath,", "He has brought Gostaham himself from death.”"]}, {"id": "C3.49.39", "lines": ["To Gostaham he said: “No man shall find", "A friend like Bijan, caring, true, and kind."]}, {"id": "C3.49.40", "lines": ["Had love not made him bear such toil for you,", "How could you hear the praise that is your due?”"]}, {"id": "C3.49.41", "lines": ["One week at Raibad still the Shah would stay,", "Giving dirhams, dinars, and gifts away."]}, {"id": "C3.49.42", "lines": ["He sent his messengers to every side,", "To call the chiefs with all their troops to ride."]}, {"id": "C3.49.43", "lines": ["“Come to this battlefield with all your might,", "Prepared against the king of Gang to fight.”"]}, {"id": "C3.49.44", "lines": ["The wars of Piran now have all been told;", "Sing Khosrow’s vengeance, poet, fierce and bold."]}]}, {"id": "C4", "title": "The Final Afrasiab Wars and the Disappearance of Kay Khosrow", "summary": "64 sections · 3,152 couplets", "path": "/poem/c4/", "couplets": [{"id": "C4.1.1", "lines": ["God bless the Shah, the pride of crown and throne,", "Whose signet takes its glory from his own."]}, {"id": "C4.1.2", "lines": ["He holds the treasures; he commands renown;", "Both wealth and fame attend his royal crown."]}, {"id": "C4.1.3", "lines": ["His are the sword and armor for the fight;", "His is the toil that tests a warrior’s might."]}, {"id": "C4.1.4", "lines": ["His treasury groans beneath his bounty’s claim,", "While majesty grows brighter through his name."]}, {"id": "C4.1.5", "lines": ["From sea to sea the armies obey his call,", "The glory of his crown is over all."]}, {"id": "C4.1.6", "lines": ["No gold lies hidden deep in any stone,", "That has not made his boundless bounty known."]}, {"id": "C4.1.7", "lines": ["With God to aid him toward his chosen ends,", "He despoiled his foes and enriched his friends."]}, {"id": "C4.1.8", "lines": ["At feasts he scattered treasure with delight;", "In war he bore the toil of bitter fight."]}, {"id": "C4.1.9", "lines": ["He brings the boughs of faith and thought to fruit,", "And knowledge feeds his wisdom at the root."]}, {"id": "C4.1.10", "lines": ["His prudent thought keeps injury away;", "His refuge is in God from day to day."]}, {"id": "C4.1.11", "lines": ["When with his sharp sword he subdued the land,", "He raised the Day of Doom on every hand."]}, {"id": "C4.1.12", "lines": ["With jewel-scattering hand or sword in fight,", "He sought a lasting name, his sole delight:"]}, {"id": "C4.1.13", "lines": ["That heaven praise him: at the feast, a sea;", "In war, a sun-faced lion, fierce and free."]}, {"id": "C4.1.14", "lines": ["Earth and its waters bear their witness true", "To deeds no former king could ever do."]}, {"id": "C4.1.15", "lines": ["The sun, the fount of light in heaven’s height,", "Bears witness to his valor in the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.1.16", "lines": ["No Shah has matched his gifts, his toil, his fame,", "His deeds in war, his sense of praise and blame."]}, {"id": "C4.1.17", "lines": ["If mercy did not keep his wrath at bay,", "His anger would drive frightened stars away."]}, {"id": "C4.1.18", "lines": ["Strong-framed, he packs his ranks in such array,", "That even winds can find no open way."]}, {"id": "C4.1.19", "lines": ["Seven hundred elephants of mighty size", "Bring up his army’s rear before all eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.1.20", "lines": ["God and Gabriel stand beside his reign;", "He takes due tribute from each realm and plain."]}, {"id": "C4.1.21", "lines": ["Whoever will not pay the tribute down", "Must yield his land and treasure, throne and crown."]}, {"id": "C4.1.22", "lines": ["Who dares break faith with him, or would despise", "The word that binds his subjects with its ties?"]}, {"id": "C4.1.23", "lines": ["The world’s high throne is radiant with his light;", "A mountain clad in jowshan, firm in fight."]}, {"id": "C4.1.24", "lines": ["Abul-Qasim, the brave, whose hand can draw", "The wild ass from the lion’s gripping claw."]}, {"id": "C4.1.25", "lines": ["Great Mahmud, who brings mighty chieftains down,", "And grinds their heads to dust beneath his crown."]}, {"id": "C4.1.26", "lines": ["While earth endures, may he be Shah on high;", "May his star crown the moon in heaven’s sky."]}, {"id": "C4.1.27", "lines": ["He is the ornament of heaven’s height;", "At feasts, a cloud that rains down gifts outright."]}, {"id": "C4.1.28", "lines": ["His wisdom, justice, and good name are spread;", "May earth not lack his crown, his royal head."]}, {"id": "C4.1.29", "lines": ["His are the armies, heart, and treasure stored,", "The ministers, war, wine, and festive board."]}, {"id": "C4.1.30", "lines": ["Across the world a single carpet lies,", "His sign upon it never fades or dies."]}, {"id": "C4.1.31", "lines": ["Upon that carpet, seat and rest are laid;", "For Fazl, son of Ahmad, they are made."]}, {"id": "C4.1.32", "lines": ["He gives the state its peace, its sure repose,", "From him the wisdom of its nobles flows."]}, {"id": "C4.1.33", "lines": ["A man of justice, prudence, godly fear;", "No former Shah possessed a peer so near."]}, {"id": "C4.1.34", "lines": ["Open in speech and heart, and clean of hand,", "He serves his God and king throughout the land."]}, {"id": "C4.1.35", "lines": ["With such a wise, upright vizier and friend,", "My far-extending labor reached its end."]}, {"id": "C4.1.36", "lines": ["I shaped this story from the ancient store,", "Selected from the book of men of lore."]}, {"id": "C4.1.37", "lines": ["That in old age the work might bear me fruit,", "A crown, bright coins, and honorable repute."]}, {"id": "C4.1.38", "lines": ["Yet no great lord of bounty could be shown,", "To lend fresh luster to the royal throne."]}, {"id": "C4.1.39", "lines": ["I waited for a generous king to be,", "Whose bounty’s door would never need a key."]}, {"id": "C4.1.40", "lines": ["A guardian of faith and royal right,", "To make the ivory throne more fair and bright."]}, {"id": "C4.1.41", "lines": ["Strong in the battles of the brave, astute", "In weighing cause and reason in dispute."]}, {"id": "C4.1.42", "lines": ["Thus sixty-five long years had passed away", "In poverty and toil from day to day."]}, {"id": "C4.1.43", "lines": ["When five years past my sixtieth had sped,", "At sixty-six, I reeled with drunken tread."]}, {"id": "C4.1.44", "lines": ["My cheeks, once tulip-red, grew pale as straw;", "In that changed hue the work of age I saw."]}, {"id": "C4.1.45", "lines": ["My hair, once musk-black, turned to camphor-white;", "Its darkness yielded to that pallid light."]}, {"id": "C4.1.46", "lines": ["My upright body bent as age came on,", "And from my eyes their former light was gone."]}, {"id": "C4.1.47", "lines": ["When I was fifty-eight, my youth was spent;", "I grew more feeble as the seasons went."]}, {"id": "C4.1.48", "lines": ["I heard a proclamation far and wide;", "My mind and body cast their cares aside."]}, {"id": "C4.1.49", "lines": ["“See bright-souled Fereydoon arise once more,", "With earth and time as servants at his door."]}, {"id": "C4.1.50", "lines": ["By justice and by largess he has won", "The world and stands above each royal son."]}, {"id": "C4.1.51", "lines": ["Bright are the records of his earlier day;", "May root and stock endure without decay.”"]}, {"id": "C4.1.52", "lines": ["Since that proclamation reached my heart,", "My ears from that high call would never part."]}, {"id": "C4.1.53", "lines": ["Beneath his lofty name I built my tale;", "May his rule over all the world prevail."]}, {"id": "C4.1.54", "lines": ["For he, the lord of sword and crown, will aid", "My age, now youth and all its strength must fade."]}, {"id": "C4.1.55", "lines": ["I ask of God, exalted, just, and still,", "To guard me long from grief and mortal ill,"]}, {"id": "C4.1.56", "lines": ["That in the Shah’s great name I may tell more,", "Omitting nothing from the ancient lore."]}, {"id": "C4.1.57", "lines": ["Then let my worthless body turn to dust,", "My soul return to its pure source, I trust."]}, {"id": "C4.1.58", "lines": ["The righteous judge, the bounteous lord of earth,", "In whom the world beholds all kinds of worth,"]}, {"id": "C4.1.59", "lines": ["The lord of Chin, the lord of Hindustan,", "The lord of Iran and the lord of Turan,"]}, {"id": "C4.1.60", "lines": ["The lord of splendor and exalted aim,", "Beyond the reach of calumny and blame,"]}, {"id": "C4.1.61", "lines": ["Whose voice can split the mountains, rock by rock,", "And make their stony masses reel with shock,"]}, {"id": "C4.1.62", "lines": ["Whose voice rends nahangs deep within the sea,", "And leaves no leopard on the land wound-free,"]}, {"id": "C4.1.63", "lines": ["Great Mahmud, radiant sun of royal light,", "A lion with a scimitar in fight,"]}, {"id": "C4.1.64", "lines": ["Will free me from all want beneath the sky,", "And set my name among the nobles high."]}, {"id": "C4.1.65", "lines": ["Forever may his throne endure, and still", "May fortune turn according to his will."]}, {"id": "C4.1.66", "lines": ["At feasts he counts his dinars as mere clay;", "He feels no fear when giving them away."]}, {"id": "C4.1.67", "lines": ["Bold is the man who dares to praise him here;", "And if he does, who dares to lend an ear?"]}, {"id": "C4.1.68", "lines": ["Beyond all thought and power, the Shah shines bright,", "Like Jupiter’s own crown of royal light."]}, {"id": "C4.1.69", "lines": ["I bore, O king, the yoke of servitude,", "To leave some deathless sign of gratitude."]}, {"id": "C4.1.70", "lines": ["The homes where men of this day dwell and stay", "Will sink through sun and shower into decay."]}, {"id": "C4.1.71", "lines": ["I built a lofty palace out of song;", "No wind or rain can do its fabric wrong."]}, {"id": "C4.1.72", "lines": ["As years pass over this my written tale,", "Each wise man reading it shall bless and hail"]}, {"id": "C4.1.73", "lines": ["The mighty Shah, and say: “May no one see", "His royal throne without him, bright and free.”"]}, {"id": "C4.1.74", "lines": ["His own achievements celebrate his name,", "And all the world bears witness to his fame."]}, {"id": "C4.1.75", "lines": ["For me, I cannot offer praise complete,", "But I will laud the dust beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "C4.1.76", "lines": ["May this age live for him alone; and may", "His throne shine bright with wisdom’s guiding ray."]}, {"id": "C4.1.77", "lines": ["As merry be his heart as joyful spring;", "May time no injury to his person bring."]}, {"id": "C4.1.78", "lines": ["May he be all his people’s hearts’ delight,", "Victorious, with speech of sovereign might."]}, {"id": "C4.1.79", "lines": ["So long as heaven circles in its flight,", "And stars pass through its turning vault of light,"]}, {"id": "C4.1.80", "lines": ["May he continue crowned with grace and pride,", "With want and evil eyes all turned aside."]}, {"id": "C4.1.81", "lines": ["I now resume the ancient tale I know,", "From faithful old traditions long ago."]}, {"id": "C4.1.82", "lines": ["When I recall the turns of passing years,", "I need no teacher’s counsel in my ears."]}, {"id": "C4.1.83", "lines": ["The combats of Kay Khosrow rise ahead;", "Hear now the magic words my craft has spread."]}, {"id": "C4.1.84", "lines": ["For I shall shower pearls as I recite,", "And plant my tulips among rocks in light."]}, {"id": "C4.1.85", "lines": ["Now from this story I weave fresh brocade,", "Its soul already found, its pattern laid."]}, {"id": "C4.1.86", "lines": ["O you who set your eyes on life’s long stage,", "Joy sometimes fills you, sometimes grief and rage."]}, {"id": "C4.1.87", "lines": ["Beneath this azure dome, how strange the woe", "That keeps the heart in wounds with every blow."]}, {"id": "C4.1.88", "lines": ["One man’s portion is all honey-sweet,", "With ease, indulgence, fortune at his feet."]}, {"id": "C4.1.89", "lines": ["Another’s lot through life is grief and pain,", "His heart is straitened in this brief domain."]}, {"id": "C4.1.90", "lines": ["Another walks along a treacherous way,", "Now raised high, now cast into dismay."]}, {"id": "C4.1.91", "lines": ["Such nurture we receive from fortune’s bower;", "The thorn brings greater pain than joy the flower."]}, {"id": "C4.1.92", "lines": ["At sixty years the hand should grasp no more;", "Its hunger ought to leave the worldly store."]}, {"id": "C4.1.93", "lines": ["Few men pass seventy; long years have shown", "The turning heaven’s ways that I have known."]}, {"id": "C4.1.94", "lines": ["And if they pass that age, worse years appear;", "Such life deserves the tribute of a tear."]}, {"id": "C4.1.95", "lines": ["If sixty years were but a fishing net,", "The wise could find a way to freedom yet."]}, {"id": "C4.1.96", "lines": ["But none escapes the heavens as they run,", "Or Him who made the moon, the day, the sun."]}, {"id": "C4.1.97", "lines": ["A king may toil, pursue revenge in pride,", "And boast of all his treasures far and wide."]}, {"id": "C4.1.98", "lines": ["Yet he must pass into another sphere,", "And leave the fruits of all his labors here."]}, {"id": "C4.1.99", "lines": ["Take Kay Khosrow’s deeds to judge the rest;", "Renew the ancient world within your breast."]}, {"id": "C4.1.100", "lines": ["Through alchemy, through cunning and the blade,", "His mother’s father for the murder paid."]}, {"id": "C4.1.101", "lines": ["He slew his grandfather, but did not stay;", "The world, too, cast his royal writ away."]}, {"id": "C4.1.102", "lines": ["Such is the custom of this fleeting sphere;", "Strive to keep suffering from drawing near."]}, {"id": "C4.2.1", "lines": ["When old Gudarz and Piran’s war had ceased,", "The conquering Shah prepared, his force increased."]}, {"id": "C4.2.2", "lines": ["The chiefs with countless troops came from each side,", "And marched in ranks that spread out far and wide."]}, {"id": "C4.2.3", "lines": ["The karnays blared out, summoning the band;", "They pitched the royal tents across the land."]}, {"id": "C4.2.4", "lines": ["Upon an elephant they set a throne", "Of turquoise, bright as heaven’s jeweled stone."]}, {"id": "C4.2.5", "lines": ["The world grew dark as indigo that day;", "The Shah sat crowned above the great array."]}, {"id": "C4.2.6", "lines": ["From plain and court the shouts of triumph rose;", "No room remained for movement or repose."]}, {"id": "C4.2.7", "lines": ["Upon his elephant, the Shah of might", "Struck ball in bowl to summon men to fight."]}, {"id": "C4.2.8", "lines": ["Then round his waist he drew the warrior’s band,", "And girt himself for battle and command."]}, {"id": "C4.2.9", "lines": ["No ruler now could linger far away;", "Each had to come before the Shah’s array."]}, {"id": "C4.2.10", "lines": ["Such was the ordinance the monarch laid,", "And all the realm obeyed the word he made."]}, {"id": "C4.2.11", "lines": ["To frontier lands his troops had gone before,", "With counsel and instructions for the war."]}, {"id": "C4.2.12", "lines": ["Lohrasp and Ashkash, mighty in the fight,", "Could drag nahangs from ocean depths to light."]}, {"id": "C4.2.13", "lines": ["And far-famed Rostam, generous and great,", "His spirit bright, a champion of the state."]}, {"id": "C4.2.14", "lines": ["Those he had charged and sent to guard the land", "Were summoned back by his commanding hand."]}, {"id": "C4.2.15", "lines": ["He opened up the treasury, paid each man,", "And blessed his father’s soul as war began."]}, {"id": "C4.2.16", "lines": ["He chose three men of judgment from the throng,", "Clear-hearted speakers, keen in battle, strong:"]}, {"id": "C4.2.17", "lines": ["First Rostam, matchless Pahlevan in might,", "And old Gudarz, the Wolf, of piercing sight;"]}, {"id": "C4.2.18", "lines": ["Then Tus, the golden-booted, highly praised,", "Who bore the standard Kaveh once had raised."]}, {"id": "C4.2.19", "lines": ["He told them, “Noble chiefs of honored name,", "Whose birth and rank uphold your lasting fame,"]}, {"id": "C4.2.20", "lines": ["You hold such rank and honor in my sight,", "As none could dream of in his sleep at night."]}, {"id": "C4.2.21", "lines": ["You three must take three roads and watch the foe;", "Guard all our troops wherever they may go."]}, {"id": "C4.2.22", "lines": ["I shall deny Afrasiab all rest,", "No ease by day, no sleep shall soothe his breast."]}, {"id": "C4.2.23", "lines": ["From every province I shall call my might,", "And end this war and vengeance through the fight.”"]}, {"id": "C4.2.24", "lines": ["He chose wise envoys, seasoned, shrewd, and strong,", "To bear his royal message far along."]}, {"id": "C4.2.25", "lines": ["In Pahlavi they wrote to chiefs of fame,", "And every lord who held a sovereign claim:"]}, {"id": "C4.2.26", "lines": ["“From elephant-back, the ball rang clear and high;", "The world grew dark as indigo’s deep dye."]}, {"id": "C4.2.27", "lines": ["Let neither rest nor sleep detain your hand;", "Prepare against Afrasiab as planned.”"]}, {"id": "C4.2.28", "lines": ["When leaders of the realm had read his word,", "A shout from all the world’s great warriors stirred."]}, {"id": "C4.2.29", "lines": ["The earth began to heave in restless motion,", "As though the plain had turned to storming ocean."]}, {"id": "C4.2.30", "lines": ["From every province chieftains took the road,", "And marched to court beneath their martial load."]}, {"id": "C4.2.31", "lines": ["From every land, beneath each chief of name,", "An army ready for the battle came."]}, {"id": "C4.2.32", "lines": ["With watchful eye the Shah rode round each rank,", "And set each force in place from flank to flank."]}, {"id": "C4.2.33", "lines": ["He chose out thirty thousand horsemen, bold,", "Sword-drawing men, whose fame was widely told."]}, {"id": "C4.2.34", "lines": ["These formed with him the center of the fight,", "Their hands washed clean in blood for battle’s might."]}, {"id": "C4.2.35", "lines": ["The Shah set Tus upon one side to stand,", "With Manushan and wise Khuzan in command."]}, {"id": "C4.2.36", "lines": ["Both kings in Pars, with golden helms arrayed,", "Stood firm beneath the royal order laid."]}, {"id": "C4.2.37", "lines": ["One led the Khuzians, a chieftain bold,", "With fortune at his side, his realm to hold."]}, {"id": "C4.2.38", "lines": ["One ruled Kerman, and when the battle came,", "No thought of lingering could check his flame."]}, {"id": "C4.2.39", "lines": ["Beyond them Arash, blazing in the fight,", "And King Guran, the army’s shining light."]}, {"id": "C4.2.40", "lines": ["Came Sabbah, Yemen’s king, a wary man,", "And lion-hearted Iraj, vast of span."]}, {"id": "C4.2.41", "lines": ["He ruled Kabul, a sovereign and sage,", "Wise in his heart and mighty in his age."]}, {"id": "C4.2.42", "lines": ["Shammakh, the king of Sur, stood armed to face", "The clash of battle, belt secured in place."]}, {"id": "C4.2.43", "lines": ["Below him Giva stood, a warrior tried,", "Who shattered armies, victory at his side."]}, {"id": "C4.2.44", "lines": ["He ruled Khavar, a sovereign wise and just,", "With piety in heart and God his trust."]}, {"id": "C4.2.45", "lines": ["All those descended from Kay Qobad’s line,", "Great men of birth and understanding fine,"]}, {"id": "C4.2.46", "lines": ["The Shah set on his left, where Dilafruz", "Was charged to rank the warriors he would choose."]}, {"id": "C4.2.47", "lines": ["The chiefs of Zariran’s line could raise on high", "Their swords through clouds that crossed the midnight sky."]}, {"id": "C4.2.48", "lines": ["Bijan, Giv’s son, and Rohham, known to fame,", "Were counted by the Shah as chiefs of name."]}, {"id": "C4.2.49", "lines": ["Gorgin, Milad’s son, with Rey’s full band,", "Marched as the Shah had given his command."]}, {"id": "C4.2.50", "lines": ["The scions of Zarasp, of honored race,", "Stood with the others in their ordered place."]}, {"id": "C4.2.51", "lines": ["They served with reverence the blessed flame,", "Azargashasp, and honored its great name."]}, {"id": "C4.2.52", "lines": ["Behind the Shah they kept their guard with spears,", "Sharp enough to pierce the cloudy spheres."]}, {"id": "C4.2.53", "lines": ["He placed the right wing under Rostam’s hand,", "Whose single strength no army could withstand."]}, {"id": "C4.2.54", "lines": ["The chiefs and kin of Zal, from every side,", "Stood on the right in armor, rank, and pride."]}, {"id": "C4.2.55", "lines": ["With all Zabul, they held the right in might;", "The Shah sought fame and order for the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.2.56", "lines": ["For his left wing he chose a radiant line,", "Like Aries’ sun, in martial light to shine."]}, {"id": "C4.2.57", "lines": ["Gudarz, son of Keshvad, led that array,", "With Hajir and Farhad prepared for fray."]}, {"id": "C4.2.58", "lines": ["The chiefs from Barda and from Ardabil", "Stood ranked before the Shah in gleaming steel."]}, {"id": "C4.2.59", "lines": ["They asked that Gudarz take his place as head,", "And on the left their ordered squadrons spread."]}, {"id": "C4.2.60", "lines": ["Before the center he commanded then", "That elephants should hold the road for men."]}, {"id": "C4.2.61", "lines": ["They set the fighting towers on each beast;", "The earth, like Nile’s great sea, its surge increased."]}, {"id": "C4.2.62", "lines": ["Within the towers stood archers trained to kill,", "Thousands whose volleys answered to their will."]}, {"id": "C4.2.63", "lines": ["Three hundred mounted warriors stood around", "Each elephant, a strong protective bound."]}, {"id": "C4.2.64", "lines": ["Baghdad’s warriors marched with Zangeh’s train,", "Son of Shavaran, master of the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.2.65", "lines": ["Picked men of Karkh, with arbalists arrayed,", "Were set before the elephants displayed."]}, {"id": "C4.2.66", "lines": ["If mountains stood two farsang off in sight,", "Their arrows pierced the stone with deadly might."]}, {"id": "C4.2.67", "lines": ["No man could ward the force of such a blow,", "Or stand against the bolts their bows let go."]}, {"id": "C4.2.68", "lines": ["Behind the beasts, the footmen formed a wall,", "With nine-rash tall spears advanced before them all."]}, {"id": "C4.2.69", "lines": ["Before them stood their Gilan shields in line,", "Their livers’ blood boiled hot at battle’s sign."]}, {"id": "C4.2.70", "lines": ["Behind the spearmen, archers held their place,", "With shields, and shafts that pierced the jowshan’s embrace."]}, {"id": "C4.2.71", "lines": ["Behind came horsemen, warriors strong and keen,", "Their quivers packed with poplar shafts were seen."]}, {"id": "C4.2.72", "lines": ["From Khavar’s army Khosrow chose for fight", "Full thirty thousand chiefs and men of might."]}, {"id": "C4.2.73", "lines": ["With armor, shields, and Roman helms of steel,", "They stood prepared for battle, head to heel."]}, {"id": "C4.2.74", "lines": ["He made brave Fariborz their chief and guide,", "With Tukhar, king of Dehestan, beside."]}, {"id": "C4.2.75", "lines": ["Tukhar, who scorned his foes in every deed,", "Was noble Dashma’s powerful royal seed."]}, {"id": "C4.2.76", "lines": ["Beside brave Fariborz stood wise Nastooh,", "With chosen warriors, steadfast, tried, and true."]}, {"id": "C4.2.77", "lines": ["The desert chiefs and men of battle craft", "Came from Bedouin sands with spear and shaft."]}, {"id": "C4.2.78", "lines": ["All served beneath fierce Zahir’s stern command,", "Who snatched gazelles from lions in the sand."]}, {"id": "C4.2.79", "lines": ["He sent him then to stand beside Nastooh,", "And strengthen all the left wing through and through."]}, {"id": "C4.2.80", "lines": ["From Rum and Barbaristan soldiers pressed,", "And Lashkaristan led them with the rest."]}, {"id": "C4.2.81", "lines": ["Full thirty thousand foot and horse drew near,", "And joined the royal left in ordered gear."]}, {"id": "C4.2.82", "lines": ["From Khorasan more warriors joined the tide,", "Who sought the world, as judges keen, clear-eyed."]}, {"id": "C4.2.83", "lines": ["Their guardian, a chief of lasting fame,", "Was Manuchehr, son of Arash, great in name."]}, {"id": "C4.2.84", "lines": ["Of Kurukhan’s line a noble chief drew near,", "From Kay Qobad’s royal seed, without a peer."]}, {"id": "C4.2.85", "lines": ["His name was King Firuz, a shining light,", "The camp’s bright heart and splendor in the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.2.86", "lines": ["He ruled Garcha, and like a lion bold,", "Could bring great elephants beneath his hold."]}, {"id": "C4.2.87", "lines": ["The Shah, by Manuchehr’s decree, assigned", "Their posts, and chose a chief of their own kind."]}, {"id": "C4.2.88", "lines": ["From Mount Kaf came mighty men in pride,", "With spears and swords and boasts on every side."]}, {"id": "C4.2.89", "lines": ["Of Jamshid’s and Fereydoon’s royal stem,", "They grieved for what Zadeshm’s line wrought on them."]}, {"id": "C4.2.90", "lines": ["Khosrow chose thirty thousand swordsmen, bred", "Of royal seed, bold men with warlike tread."]}, {"id": "C4.2.91", "lines": ["He gave that force to Giv, Gudarz’s heir,", "Whose name brought joy to frontiers everywhere."]}, {"id": "C4.2.92", "lines": ["Behind Giv, Yava Simkan came along,", "With princes and great warriors in his throng."]}, {"id": "C4.2.93", "lines": ["His warriors all were brave, alert, and wise,", "With watchful hearts and battle in their eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.2.94", "lines": ["Ten thousand khanjar-bearing horsemen bright", "The Shah dispatched to strengthen all the right."]}, {"id": "C4.2.95", "lines": ["Ten thousand more behind Gudarz were placed,", "Brave men who many bitter wars had faced."]}, {"id": "C4.2.96", "lines": ["The swordsman Borteh with his mountain band,", "Marched in that throng to strengthen Giv’s command."]}, {"id": "C4.2.97", "lines": ["A force of gallant chiefs, erect and brave,", "Stood ready, Giv from danger there to save."]}, {"id": "C4.2.98", "lines": ["The Shah sent thirty thousand toward the left,", "Picked horsemen who in every arm were deft."]}, {"id": "C4.2.99", "lines": ["Zavareh led those warriors to the fray,", "All eager for the work of war that day."]}, {"id": "C4.2.100", "lines": ["He chose ten thousand spearmen, men of name,", "And set them in their ranks when battle came."]}, {"id": "C4.2.101", "lines": ["Before them Gharan stood in martial might,", "The chief of all those men renowned in fight."]}, {"id": "C4.2.102", "lines": ["Between the facing armies he would go,", "A champion seeking battle with the foe."]}, {"id": "C4.2.103", "lines": ["To Gostaham, brave Gazhdaham’s own son,", "He said: “Stay close to Gharan till war is done.”"]}, {"id": "C4.2.104", "lines": ["He bade Darman, Tus’s son, to ride round,", "With karnay and with koust across the ground."]}, {"id": "C4.2.105", "lines": ["He must restrain the godless hands that prey", "On others and forbid their lawless way."]}, {"id": "C4.2.106", "lines": ["No man should lack the food that kept him strong;", "Nor should the powerful do the weaker wrong."]}, {"id": "C4.2.107", "lines": ["Whatever men required, he asked the throne,", "And made the army’s needs and wishes known."]}, {"id": "C4.2.108", "lines": ["The world was full of wagons; buffaloes", "Were driven on for food as need arose."]}, {"id": "C4.2.109", "lines": ["The Shah set scouts on every side to keep", "Their watch and roused the drowsy men from sleep."]}, {"id": "C4.2.110", "lines": ["His knowing agents went through every land,", "And sought out news to serve the king’s command."]}, {"id": "C4.2.111", "lines": ["On every mountain lookouts took their stand;", "He kept his army gathered as one band."]}, {"id": "C4.2.112", "lines": ["Through mountain paths and caves the monarch went,", "To watch his army was his firm intent."]}, {"id": "C4.2.113", "lines": ["Across the plains and deserts, all around", "His army, he surveyed the open ground."]}, {"id": "C4.2.114", "lines": ["The reins were interlocked throughout the train;", "All raised their heads for war upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.2.115", "lines": ["No fear or hardship troubled those who went;", "The Shah brought treasure with his armament."]}, {"id": "C4.2.116", "lines": ["Thus, when the Shah had set his ranks for fight,", "He raised his royal crown to heaven’s height."]}, {"id": "C4.2.117", "lines": ["Both men of kindly heart and men of ill", "Desired but war, united in one will."]}, {"id": "C4.3.1", "lines": ["Beyond the Chakh, the king, his ease complete,", "Sat in his splendor on his ivory seat."]}, {"id": "C4.3.2", "lines": ["At Gulzaryun sat his chosen band,", "Proud chiefs and slayers gathered at his hand."]}, {"id": "C4.3.3", "lines": ["Two million men stood ready in his train,", "With all the arms of war upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.3.4", "lines": ["Whatever grew throughout Kroshan’s domain,", "The leaves of trees, the harvest and the grain,"]}, {"id": "C4.3.5", "lines": ["The troops consumed the fruit and harvest’s store;", "The ravaged world desired to live no more."]}, {"id": "C4.3.6", "lines": ["At Baikand stood the Turkish king’s high seat,", "With kin and allies gathered at his feet."]}, {"id": "C4.3.7", "lines": ["From Chin and far Machin the chieftains came,", "And camped in Kashani, all men of fame."]}, {"id": "C4.3.8", "lines": ["Camp-walls and tent-enclosures filled the plain,", "No room for man or beast could there remain."]}, {"id": "C4.3.9", "lines": ["Afrasiab, ambitious, wise, and deep,", "Remained at Kunduz, taking food and sleep."]}, {"id": "C4.3.10", "lines": ["He chose that place because, in ancient days,", "Great Fereydoon had raised its walls and ways."]}, {"id": "C4.3.11", "lines": ["There he had built a fire-temple, and placed", "The Zand-Avesta there, in gold encased."]}, {"id": "C4.3.12", "lines": ["In Pahlavi, Kunduz had been its name,", "As ancient speech and chronicles proclaim."]}, {"id": "C4.3.13", "lines": ["Now Baikand was the name that men would say;", "The age was full of snares and fraud’s foul play."]}, {"id": "C4.3.14", "lines": ["Afrasiab sprang from Fereydoon’s line,", "And lingered in that seat of old design."]}, {"id": "C4.3.15", "lines": ["He camped there with his household on the plain,", "His army dazzled heaven’s bright domain."]}, {"id": "C4.3.16", "lines": ["His royal camp, with countless servants seen,", "Was made of Chin’s brocade in glittering sheen."]}, {"id": "C4.3.17", "lines": ["The inner tents were made of leopard hide,", "A custom sprung from Pashang’s ancient pride."]}, {"id": "C4.3.18", "lines": ["The royal tent contained a golden throne,", "With gems and golden ornaments that shone."]}, {"id": "C4.3.19", "lines": ["There sat the monarch on his golden seat,", "With gorz and crown, his majesty complete."]}, {"id": "C4.3.20", "lines": ["Outside, the chiefs’ great standards were displayed,", "Before the royal entrance, rank-arrayed."]}, {"id": "C4.3.21", "lines": ["The favored chiefs had pitched their tents to wait", "Before the royal tent’s imposing gate."]}, {"id": "C4.3.22", "lines": ["His brother, sons, and kin of noble line", "Were stationed near that royal tent’s design."]}, {"id": "C4.3.23", "lines": ["He meant to go himself to aid the fight,", "And bring Piran support with all his might."]}, {"id": "C4.3.24", "lines": ["At dawn a horseman, swift as air, came straight", "And told the Turkish king of Piran’s fate."]}, {"id": "C4.3.25", "lines": ["The wounded followed, weeping as they came,", "With dust upon their heads and hearts aflame."]}, {"id": "C4.3.26", "lines": ["Each told his tale of wounds and bitter harm,", "That Iran’s warriors wrought by force of arm."]}, {"id": "C4.3.27", "lines": ["They spoke of Piran, Lahhak, Farshidvard,", "And nobles slain while fighting long and hard."]}, {"id": "C4.3.28", "lines": ["They told how van and rear had fared that day,", "And how the field had turned their strength away."]}, {"id": "C4.3.29", "lines": ["That very day, Khosrow had reached the field;", "From mount to mount his mighty troops were wheeled."]}, {"id": "C4.3.30", "lines": ["“Our men have asked for quarter,” thus they cried;", "“The flock is shepherdless and terrified.”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.31", "lines": ["The monarch heard and stood aghast with dread;", "His eyes and heart grew dark at what they said."]}, {"id": "C4.3.32", "lines": ["He came down wailing from the ivory seat,", "And cast his crown down at his chieftains’ feet."]}, {"id": "C4.3.33", "lines": ["A cry of anguish rose from all his men;", "The nobles’ cheeks grew pale with sorrow then."]}, {"id": "C4.3.34", "lines": ["They cleared the strangers from the royal tent,", "And for his kinsmen, all of them, they sent."]}, {"id": "C4.3.35", "lines": ["Afrasiab wept and tore his hair in pain,", "While tears streamed down his face like falling rain."]}, {"id": "C4.3.36", "lines": ["“O world-seeing one, my Ruyin,” he cried,", "“My noble horseman, once my strength and pride!"]}, {"id": "C4.3.37", "lines": ["Lahhak and Farshidvard, my chiefs of might,", "My horsemen, who will ride no more to fight!"]}, {"id": "C4.3.38", "lines": ["No son or brother now is left to stand;", "No chief, no army, no one to command!”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.39", "lines": ["He mourned them thus, then changed in mood and breath,", "And sorrowed for his soldiers doomed to death."]}, {"id": "C4.3.40", "lines": ["He swore a mighty oath and breathed a sigh,", "Cold from his grief, while tears ran from his eye."]}, {"id": "C4.3.41", "lines": ["“By God, I cast off throne and royal pride;", "No crown shall on my head again abide."]}, {"id": "C4.3.42", "lines": ["My tunic, jowshan; throne, a horse shall be;", "A helm my crown, a spear my royal tree."]}, {"id": "C4.3.43", "lines": ["I wish no feast, no banquet, and no rest,", "Nor tend myself for crowns, in splendor dressed."]}, {"id": "C4.3.44", "lines": ["I seek but vengeance for my fallen band,", "My sword-bearing chiefs, the lions of my land."]}, {"id": "C4.3.45", "lines": ["On base-born Kay Khosrow my wrath shall fall;", "May Siavash’s seed be lost to all.”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.46", "lines": ["While he bewailed those tidings, riders cried:", "“Kay Khosrow’s troops have reached the Jihun side."]}, {"id": "C4.3.47", "lines": ["The face of all the realm is filled with troops,", "With marching armies formed in ordered groups.”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.48", "lines": ["In grief and wretchedness he called his powers,", "And spoke of Piran through the heavy hours."]}, {"id": "C4.3.49", "lines": ["He spoke of Ruyin, Farshidvard, and all", "The horsemen who had perished in their fall."]}, {"id": "C4.3.50", "lines": ["“Now is the time for vengeance, blood, and might,", "With Giv and Rostam we must join the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.3.51", "lines": ["Love, pain, and vengeance fill my heart with flame", "Against Iran, whose king must bear the blame.”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.52", "lines": ["With tearful eyes Turan’s great chieftains cried,", "And spoke to Afrasiab at his side:"]}, {"id": "C4.3.53", "lines": ["“We are your servants; all obey your will,", "And bow before your counsel, faithful still."]}, {"id": "C4.3.54", "lines": ["Such men as Piran, Ruyin, shining bright,", "And Farshidvard, were never matched in fight."]}, {"id": "C4.3.55", "lines": ["Each one of us belongs to your command,", "Our lives and bodies ready in your hand."]}, {"id": "C4.3.56", "lines": ["Though hills and dales become a bloody sea,", "And hacked as short as wide our bodies be,"]}, {"id": "C4.3.57", "lines": ["Not one of us will quit the battlefield,", "If God, the moon’s own Lord, will be our shield.”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.58", "lines": ["At this the Turkish monarch’s heart revived;", "His mood returned, his royal self survived."]}, {"id": "C4.3.59", "lines": ["He paid the troops, his coffers opened wide;", "His heart was vengeance, and his head was pride."]}, {"id": "C4.3.60", "lines": ["The cattle on the mountains and the plains", "Were granted out to strengthen warlike trains."]}, {"id": "C4.3.61", "lines": ["He chose a hundred thousand men of might,", "With swords and all the gear of bitter fight."]}, {"id": "C4.3.62", "lines": ["To shining Balkh he sent the armed array,", "With counsel and commands to guide their way."]}, {"id": "C4.3.63", "lines": ["Gostaham, son of Nohzar, held that ground,", "With horsemen wise, whose judgment there was sound."]}, {"id": "C4.3.64", "lines": ["He chose out thirty thousand Turkish men,", "All armed for war and loyal to him then."]}, {"id": "C4.3.65", "lines": ["He sent them to the Jihun, there to go", "By boat across the river’s running flow,"]}, {"id": "C4.3.66", "lines": ["Lest in the night, before they could prepare,", "A raid by boat should take them unaware."]}, {"id": "C4.3.67", "lines": ["He sent detachments out on every side,", "And many shrewd devices then he tried."]}, {"id": "C4.3.68", "lines": ["Yet God’s high ordinance had fixed his fall:", "That wrongful king would break beyond recall."]}, {"id": "C4.3.69", "lines": ["At night he sat in council with the wise,", "With priests whose prudence shone within their eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.3.70", "lines": ["They turned the earth’s affairs from side to side,", "And weighed the paths that prudence could provide."]}, {"id": "C4.3.71", "lines": ["At last they all agreed the king should go", "Across the Jihun’s broad and running flow."]}, {"id": "C4.3.72", "lines": ["To counter all the evil foes might do,", "He split his army, making one force two."]}, {"id": "C4.3.73", "lines": ["He ordered Qarakhan, his eldest son,", "To come before him when the plan was done."]}, {"id": "C4.3.74", "lines": ["In valor, stature, counsel, look, and tone,", "He seemed his father’s image, flesh and bone."]}, {"id": "C4.3.75", "lines": ["The monarch gave him half the army’s might,", "Experienced men, the warriors proved in fight."]}, {"id": "C4.3.76", "lines": ["He bade him in Bukhara hold his ground,", "A mountain at his father’s back be found."]}, {"id": "C4.3.77", "lines": ["“Send arms and troops, a stream that has no end;", "And food on camels without ceasing send.”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.78", "lines": ["He left Baikand and hastened to Jihun;", "His ranks along its banks were marshaled soon."]}, {"id": "C4.3.79", "lines": ["A thousand boats and skiffs were brought in train,", "To bear the troops across the watery plain."]}, {"id": "C4.3.80", "lines": ["For one full week the boats crossed to and fro,", "Till troops filled hill and plain in mighty show."]}, {"id": "C4.3.81", "lines": ["The river choked beneath the crossing hordes, ", "With elephant trunks and spears and flashing swords."]}, {"id": "C4.3.82", "lines": ["The boats concealed the river’s streaming face;", "The troops moved toward Amuy’s desert place."]}, {"id": "C4.3.83", "lines": ["The king came last and crossed in wrath that day,", "Intent on battle with Iran’s array."]}, {"id": "C4.3.84", "lines": ["He sent swift camel-riders far and wide,", "Men shrewd and ardent, trained and battle-tried."]}, {"id": "C4.3.85", "lines": ["“Survey the country, both to left and right,", "And find a field to hold our army’s might.”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.86", "lines": ["When all the scouts returned from every side,", "They spoke before the king of what they spied:"]}, {"id": "C4.3.87", "lines": ["“These many troops engaged in this campaign", "Need forage, water, rest, and level plain."]}, {"id": "C4.3.88", "lines": ["One road leads to the Sea of Gilan’s strand,", "With pasture for the steeds and camping land."]}, {"id": "C4.3.89", "lines": ["On this side flows the Jihun; down its tide", "Wise men may bring provisions to our side."]}, {"id": "C4.3.90", "lines": ["Between them lie broad sands, a spacious place", "Where tents may stand with all a palace’s grace.”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.91", "lines": ["The news refreshed the monarch’s anxious heart;", "He sought the royal camp to play his part."]}, {"id": "C4.3.92", "lines": ["Expert in war and skilled in high command,", "He needed no instructor’s guiding hand."]}, {"id": "C4.3.93", "lines": ["He ranged the center and the wings, then chose", "Outposts from which to watch the coming foes."]}, {"id": "C4.3.94", "lines": ["He fixed the rear, the baggage-train’s domain,", "And ranked the left and right across the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.3.95", "lines": ["He made a royal camp with measured art,", "And placed five score thousand men at its heart."]}, {"id": "C4.3.96", "lines": ["He chose his station, led his troops outright,", "And ranked his own formations for the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.3.97", "lines": ["Pashang, whose hands could match the leopard’s claws,", "Commanded on the right for Turan’s cause."]}, {"id": "C4.3.98", "lines": ["In all the ranks no peer to him was found,", "No horseman matched his skill on any ground."]}, {"id": "C4.3.99", "lines": ["He spurred his horse and caught the leopard’s tail,", "Then tore it off; his grip would never fail."]}, {"id": "C4.3.100", "lines": ["He held an iron spear with which, in fight,", "He pierced the mountain through with all his might."]}, {"id": "C4.3.101", "lines": ["His father called him Shideh, shining one,", "For he was like the bright and blazing sun."]}, {"id": "C4.3.102", "lines": ["To him the king committed for the field", "A hundred thousand chiefs who would not yield."]}, {"id": "C4.3.103", "lines": ["A brother, younger by one year, stood near,", "A prince whose stern regard could kindle fear."]}, {"id": "C4.3.104", "lines": ["His name was Jahan, valiant, proud, and bold;", "Throughout the world his warrior’s name was told."]}, {"id": "C4.3.105", "lines": ["A potent chief, his father’s trusted guide,", "Whose wisdom set all other men aside."]}, {"id": "C4.3.106", "lines": ["To him he gave full thirty thousand horse,", "All trained for war, a tried and ready force."]}, {"id": "C4.3.107", "lines": ["He placed the army’s left wing in his hand: ", " “May fortune shine on you and your command.”"]}, {"id": "C4.3.108", "lines": ["Then came the fourth son, girded for the fray,", "And stood before his father that same day."]}, {"id": "C4.3.109", "lines": ["His father gave him a hundred thousand horse,", "Turks of Chigil, a strong and seasoned force."]}, {"id": "C4.3.110", "lines": ["They guarded Shideh’s rear, a steadfast band,", "Though stones should rain from clouds upon the land."]}, {"id": "C4.3.111", "lines": ["To bold Kahila troops were then assigned,", "And fiercer Ila took his share in kind."]}, {"id": "C4.3.112", "lines": ["Ila, the world-king’s grandson, held his place,", "A warrior sprung from Afrasiab’s race."]}, {"id": "C4.3.113", "lines": ["He snatched his kabab from the lions’ backs,", "So fierce his hand, so mighty his attacks."]}, {"id": "C4.3.114", "lines": ["Both served Turan as horsemen, men of might,", "Each with a mountain’s heart, steadfast in fight."]}, {"id": "C4.3.115", "lines": ["He chose a force to hold the army’s right,", "So vast it hid the sun from mortal sight."]}, {"id": "C4.3.116", "lines": ["From Taraz, Ghuzz, and Khallokh riders pressed,", "Full thirty thousand, proved in battle’s test."]}, {"id": "C4.3.117", "lines": ["Their chief was Afrasiab’s fifth-born son,", "A chief whose fame through battle had been won."]}, {"id": "C4.3.118", "lines": ["They called that champion valiant Gordgir;", "His sword and shafts could pierce the mountain sheer."]}, {"id": "C4.3.119", "lines": ["Damur and Jaranjash marched in his train,", "To strengthen Jahan’s force upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.3.120", "lines": ["Another thirty thousand came to fight,", "Their battle-khanjars ready, keen and bright."]}, {"id": "C4.3.121", "lines": ["The veteran Nastooh held the chief command,", "With brave Pashang to guard that fighting band."]}, {"id": "C4.3.122", "lines": ["Then thirty thousand Turkish warriors came,", "With gorz and sword and bow, all fierce for fame."]}, {"id": "C4.3.123", "lines": ["Their chief was Bargiras, whose beard hung low,", "To touch the pommel of his saddle-bow."]}, {"id": "C4.3.124", "lines": ["Then forty thousand swordsmen, tried and strong,", "The king selected from the mighty throng."]}, {"id": "C4.3.125", "lines": ["Great Garsivaz, a warrior huge in frame,", "A chief who sought the world and warlike fame,"]}, {"id": "C4.3.126", "lines": ["Received the elephants, the royal seat,", "The chiefs, and all the rear in ranks complete."]}, {"id": "C4.3.127", "lines": ["Then chose the king ten thousand, keen for strife,", "Whom war could never sate throughout their life."]}, {"id": "C4.3.128", "lines": ["He bade them stand between the ranks in might,", "Their mouths all foaming, eager for the fight,"]}, {"id": "C4.3.129", "lines": ["Then range on horseback through the hostile lines,", "And break Iran’s brave hearts and snap their spines."]}, {"id": "C4.3.130", "lines": ["Their rear faced Bakhtar; night fell on the plain;", "They blocked the roads with elephants in train."]}, {"id": "C4.3.131", "lines": ["The world’s bright monarch spoke with royal might:", "“Toward Nimruz our army turns its sight.”"]}, {"id": "C4.4.1", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow heard the news his spies had sent", "Of Afrasiab’s force and his intent."]}, {"id": "C4.4.2", "lines": ["He learned the king had crossed the river’s course", "And camped upon this bank to face his force:"]}, {"id": "C4.4.3", "lines": ["“A vast force crossed the Jihun in array,", "Till sand and stone lay hidden from the day.”"]}, {"id": "C4.4.4", "lines": ["He called his warriors and declared the word", "That from his secret watchers he had heard."]}, {"id": "C4.4.5", "lines": ["He chose from all Iran’s most seasoned men,", "Whom fortune had proved time and time again,"]}, {"id": "C4.4.6", "lines": ["To aid brave Gostaham of Nohzar’s line", "At Balkh, with steadfast hearts and stern design."]}, {"id": "C4.4.7", "lines": ["He bade Ashkash lead troops across the plain,", "With elephants and coin to Zam’s domain,"]}, {"id": "C4.4.8", "lines": ["So no attack could strike the army’s rear,", "Or thwart the plans Iran’s great chiefs held dear."]}, {"id": "C4.4.9", "lines": ["He then commanded warriors to horse,", "The bronze tabira roared; he led his force."]}, {"id": "C4.4.10", "lines": ["He marched with counsel, slow and mindful yet,", "For haste in war brings nothing but regret."]}, {"id": "C4.4.11", "lines": ["Once in the desert, Khosrow viewed each line,", "Inspecting arms and men by his design."]}, {"id": "C4.4.12", "lines": ["Their route lay toward Khwarazm, where open sands", "And plains were fit for strife of rival bands."]}, {"id": "C4.4.13", "lines": ["Dehestan lay left, the river right,", "With sands between, Afrasiab in sight."]}, {"id": "C4.4.14", "lines": ["With Rostam, Tus, and Giv, the Shah rode out;", "Gudarz and other chiefs were round about."]}, {"id": "C4.4.15", "lines": ["With noble warriors he surveyed the field,", "The roads and trackless ground, what each might yield."]}, {"id": "C4.4.16", "lines": ["He weighed the sight of his grandfather’s might,", "His mind intent on countless plans for fight."]}, {"id": "C4.4.17", "lines": ["He had not thought to meet so vast a train,", "Such elephants and warriors on the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.4.18", "lines": ["A trench enclosed his troops on every side,", "And scouts kept watch across the country wide."]}, {"id": "C4.4.19", "lines": ["At night he filled the trench with water led", "Along the side where stood the foe ahead."]}, {"id": "C4.4.20", "lines": ["When Sol shone bright from Aries in the sky,", "And gave the world its splendor from on high,"]}, {"id": "C4.4.21", "lines": ["The Turkish chief reviewed his troops that day;", "A brazen karnay called them to array."]}, {"id": "C4.4.22", "lines": ["The world was filled with karnays’ ringing cries;", "They donned their iron helms beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "C4.4.23", "lines": ["The earth itself was iron everywhere,", "And spearpoints bristled through the crowded air."]}, {"id": "C4.4.24", "lines": ["Two days and nights the armies held their ground;", "No warrior moved his lips to make a sound."]}, {"id": "C4.4.25", "lines": ["The horsemen mounted firm on either side,", "The footmen formed before them, rank and wide."]}, {"id": "C4.4.26", "lines": ["The world became a mountain, iron-made;", "The heavens seemed in jowshans all arrayed."]}, {"id": "C4.4.27", "lines": ["Before the King and Shah seers drew near,", "With anxious minds and tables of the sphere."]}, {"id": "C4.4.28", "lines": ["With astrolabes they searched the turning sky,", "To learn on whom its favor now would lie."]}, {"id": "C4.4.29", "lines": ["But heaven watched the battle from on high;", "The baffled seers could offer no reply."]}, {"id": "C4.5.1", "lines": ["Upon the fourth day, when the strain was great,", "Brave Shideh came before his father’s state."]}, {"id": "C4.5.2", "lines": ["He said: “O famed throughout the world’s expanse,", "Most high of kings whom fortune will advance,"]}, {"id": "C4.5.3", "lines": ["No king beneath the heavens is your peer;", "From sun or moon no malice need you fear."]}, {"id": "C4.5.4", "lines": ["An iron mountain, hearing your great name,", "Would run like water, loosened from its frame."]}, {"id": "C4.5.5", "lines": ["The earth can scarcely bear your mighty force;", "The sun grows dim before your helmet’s course."]}, {"id": "C4.5.6", "lines": ["No king would dare to face you as a foe,", "Except your base-born kinsman, Kay Khosrow."]}, {"id": "C4.5.7", "lines": ["Your kinsman, yes, yet false in stock and seed,", "Though bound by blood, unworthy in his deed."]}, {"id": "C4.5.8", "lines": ["You cherished Siavash with loving care,", "And bore the burdens fathers have to bear."]}, {"id": "C4.5.9", "lines": ["You would not let an evil wind draw near", "To touch the prince whom once you held so dear."]}, {"id": "C4.5.10", "lines": ["You turned from him when all his aims were known:", "He sought your troops, your crown, your royal throne."]}, {"id": "C4.5.11", "lines": ["Had you preserved his life by royal grace,", "Your crown and seal would soon have changed their place."]}, {"id": "C4.5.12", "lines": ["Now he has come against you in array;", "We must not linger long or court delay."]}, {"id": "C4.5.13", "lines": ["Whoever casts remembered good aside", "Seeks out the fate by which Siavash died."]}, {"id": "C4.5.14", "lines": ["You raised him with a father’s love and grace,", "And would not send him to death’s darkened place."]}, {"id": "C4.5.15", "lines": ["You reared him till to manhood he had grown;", "He left your love to seek the golden throne."]}, {"id": "C4.5.16", "lines": ["To Iran, like a bird, from you he flew,", "As though no bond had ever linked you two."]}, {"id": "C4.5.17", "lines": ["Look how Piran showed kindness to that chief,", "Who paid his love with slaughter, blood, and grief."]}, {"id": "C4.5.18", "lines": ["He cast aside Piran’s devoted claim,", "And filled his heart with vengeance, head with flame."]}, {"id": "C4.5.19", "lines": ["When kindly Piran fell into his grip,", "He took his life, no word upon his lip."]}, {"id": "C4.5.20", "lines": ["Now he has marched from Iran with his train,", "To strike his grandfather upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.5.21", "lines": ["He seeks no gold, no sword, no crown or throne,", "No horses, troops, or treasure of his own."]}, {"id": "C4.5.22", "lines": ["He aims at kindred lives; his whole intent", "Is blood, and all his boast is vengeance spent."]}, {"id": "C4.5.23", "lines": ["My father is a king of judgment high,", "And knows these words contain no trace of lie."]}, {"id": "C4.5.24", "lines": ["Why make so much of Iran’s strength today,", "And break our army’s heart with this dismay?"]}, {"id": "C4.5.25", "lines": ["What need have armies now of starry lore?", "The brave win honor with the swords they bore."]}, {"id": "C4.5.26", "lines": ["The horsemen on the right all long to fight;", "With me they stand, one heart in battle’s might."]}, {"id": "C4.5.27", "lines": ["If you permit, I shall break Iran’s spine,", "And leave no warrior standing in their line."]}, {"id": "C4.5.28", "lines": ["My shafts shall pin each helmet to its face;", "No vaunting horseman shall remain in place."]}, {"id": "C4.5.29", "lines": ["Their trench and reservoir I do not fear;", "No dread of either checks my purpose here.”"]}, {"id": "C4.5.30", "lines": ["Afrasiab replied: “Do not rush to fight;", "All that you say, my son, is just and right."]}, {"id": "C4.5.31", "lines": ["A king should heed no counsel but the truth;", "Yet think what Piran was, impetuous youth."]}, {"id": "C4.5.32", "lines": ["In this world Piran chose the righteous way;", "No fraud or falsehood led his heart astray."]}, {"id": "C4.5.33", "lines": ["He sought no path except the good and right,", "In war he bore an elephant’s great might."]}, {"id": "C4.5.34", "lines": ["His heart a sea, his face like sunlight glowed;", "His brother Houman, battle’s leopard, rode."]}, {"id": "C4.5.35", "lines": ["Lahhak was brave, and Farshidvard was strong;", "Their deaths have wrapped Turan in mourning long."]}, {"id": "C4.5.36", "lines": ["A hundred thousand Turkish horsemen came,", "Ambitious men, with spears that blazed like flame."]}, {"id": "C4.5.37", "lines": ["They rode out eager, battle in each breast;", "In secret now I grieve, by pain oppressed."]}, {"id": "C4.5.38", "lines": ["They perished there; the field was drowned in gore,", "Their blood soaked all the earth they trod before."]}, {"id": "C4.5.39", "lines": ["Turan’s broad marches groan beneath the pain;", "All men dream only of Piran the slain."]}, {"id": "C4.5.40", "lines": ["No tongue now speaks Afrasiab’s name aloud;", "All hearts are bent beneath that mourning cloud."]}, {"id": "C4.5.41", "lines": ["So let our famous men and chiefs remain,", "Until they see Iran upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.5.42", "lines": ["Let them first gaze upon Iran’s array,", "And grief and pain and wrath shall fade away."]}, {"id": "C4.5.43", "lines": ["Iranians too shall see our army’s might,", "Our treasure, thrones, and crowns laid out in sight."]}, {"id": "C4.5.44", "lines": ["It is not good to fight in force today;", "Defeat may come, and all our hopes betray."]}, {"id": "C4.5.45", "lines": ["We shall send single champions forth instead,", "And stain the field with blood of foemen dead.”"]}, {"id": "C4.5.46", "lines": ["Then Shideh said: “If thus you seek the fight,", "Let me go first to prove a champion’s might."]}, {"id": "C4.5.47", "lines": ["I overthrow the steeds that face my ire,", "A brazen elephant in battle’s fire."]}, {"id": "C4.5.48", "lines": ["I know no man whose charger in the fray", "Could cast its dust upon my horse today."]}, {"id": "C4.5.49", "lines": ["I long for single combat with Khosrow,", "Because he is the new king men now know."]}, {"id": "C4.5.50", "lines": ["If he should come to meet me in the fight,", "He shall not slip my grasp or take to flight."]}, {"id": "C4.5.51", "lines": ["The heart and back of Iran both shall break,", "And all their hopes shall tremble in my wake."]}, {"id": "C4.5.52", "lines": ["If any other champion rides ahead,", "I soon shall lay him headlong with the dead.”"]}, {"id": "C4.5.53", "lines": ["The king replied: “You have not learned war’s ways;", "Why should the king seek you on battle days?"]}, {"id": "C4.5.54", "lines": ["I am his match, if combat he should claim;", "Beneath my feet shall fall his flesh and name."]}, {"id": "C4.5.55", "lines": ["If he should come to face me in the field,", "Both armies would set down the sword and shield.”"]}, {"id": "C4.5.56", "lines": ["Then Shideh said: “O father, worldly-wise,", "If he should challenge you before our eyes,"]}, {"id": "C4.5.57", "lines": ["Five living sons stand here; while we draw breath,", "We will not let you face the field of death."]}, {"id": "C4.5.58", "lines": ["No soldier, nor a man of faith, thinks right", "That you should be the first to seek the fight.”"]}, {"id": "C4.6.1", "lines": ["Afrasiab addressed his son and prayed:", "“Imperious son, may fortune be your aid."]}, {"id": "C4.6.2", "lines": ["Though you would face Khosrow yourself in fight,", "Do not regard the deed as shame or slight."]}, {"id": "C4.6.3", "lines": ["Go to their ranks and ask that they provide", "A wise man who may hear you from their side."]}, {"id": "C4.6.4", "lines": ["Go forth, and may the Maker be your stay;", "May all your foes be overturned today."]}, {"id": "C4.6.5", "lines": ["Convey from me these words to Kay Khosrow:", "‘The world has other ways, as you should know."]}, {"id": "C4.6.6", "lines": ["A grandson bent to see his grandfather dead", "Must have a heart where guile and wrong are bred."]}, {"id": "C4.6.7", "lines": ["Such was the Maker’s will for earthly life:", "To fill the world with vengeance, war, and strife."]}, {"id": "C4.6.8", "lines": ["Siavash was not guiltless when he died;", "The turns of time had led his mind aside."]}, {"id": "C4.6.9", "lines": ["If mine the guilt, what wrong had Piran done,", "Or Ruyin, Lahhak, Farshidvard, each one?"]}, {"id": "C4.6.10", "lines": ["Why were they bound on horses, drenched in gore,", "Like maddened elephants that charge and roar?"]}, {"id": "C4.6.11", "lines": ["If you call me miscreant, dark of mind,", "Ahriman’s seed, and evil in my kind,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.12", "lines": ["Remember that my blood runs in your veins;", "So every curse on me your own blood stains."]}, {"id": "C4.6.13", "lines": ["Leave Kay Kavus and old Gudarz the fight;", "Let them bring armies here to test my might."]}, {"id": "C4.6.14", "lines": ["I speak not thus because I fear your blade,", "Nor that old age has made my vigor fade."]}, {"id": "C4.6.15", "lines": ["My troops are like the sands along the shore,", "All mighty lions when the battles roar."]}, {"id": "C4.6.16", "lines": ["At my command, when battle fills the plain,", "They turn Mount Gang to sea with blood like rain."]}, {"id": "C4.6.17", "lines": ["Yet still I fear the Judge of earth and sky,", "The blood to spill, the noble heads to fly."]}, {"id": "C4.6.18", "lines": ["For many an innocent and noble head", "Will fall upon this field and join the dead."]}, {"id": "C4.6.19", "lines": ["If you refuse to turn and leave this place,", "Perhaps you fear retreat would bring disgrace."]}, {"id": "C4.6.20", "lines": ["But if you seal my terms with oaths held fast,", "And keep that pledge when wrath and fear are past,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.21", "lines": ["I will reveal a path by which your train,", "Your troops and treasure, may be spared from pain."]}, {"id": "C4.6.22", "lines": ["Forget the blood of Siavash once shed,", "Let your grandfather rest in peace instead."]}, {"id": "C4.6.23", "lines": ["Let Jahan and brave Shideh brothers be", "To you; in war they turn Mount Gang to sea."]}, {"id": "C4.6.24", "lines": ["I will command that all the Turks withdraw", "From all the lands Iran may claim by law."]}, {"id": "C4.6.25", "lines": ["The ancestral treasures held within my hand,", "The coins and crowns and thrones at my command,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.26", "lines": ["The horses and the arms of every kind,", "And all the treasures Zadeshm left behind,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.27", "lines": ["The thrones, the coronets, the royal hoard,", "The wealth your army needs shall be restored,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.28", "lines": ["These I shall send to you in ordered flow,", "And let the gathered wealth to Iran go."]}, {"id": "C4.6.29", "lines": ["My son shall be your Pahlevan in war,", "And I your kinsman as I was before."]}, {"id": "C4.6.30", "lines": ["Then both great sides shall rest, their strife now past,", "And all our battle into feast be cast."]}, {"id": "C4.6.31", "lines": ["But if dark Ahriman corrupts your thought,", "And makes the shroud the garment you have sought,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.32", "lines": ["If war and blood become your only aim,", "And my good counsel finds no room or claim,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.33", "lines": ["Come forth from your own army to the plain;", "Perhaps the wish you cherish you shall gain."]}, {"id": "C4.6.34", "lines": ["Let us two meet while all our troops repose;", "Let neither side be wasted by its foes."]}, {"id": "C4.6.35", "lines": ["If I shall perish, all the world you win;", "My troops shall serve you, and my son your kin."]}, {"id": "C4.6.36", "lines": ["But if I slay you, none of yours shall bleed;", "Your men shall have safe quarter in their need."]}, {"id": "C4.6.37", "lines": ["Your soldiers shall be comrades, chiefs, and friends,", "And peace shall follow where this combat ends."]}, {"id": "C4.6.38", "lines": ["If you will not come forth, or if you fear", "To face the veteran nahang with spear,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.39", "lines": ["Then Shideh, girded, comes to meet your might;", "Delay no longer when he offers fight."]}, {"id": "C4.6.40", "lines": ["The father is old; his son holds him still,", "Young, wise, and strong, with glory, strength, and skill."]}, {"id": "C4.6.41", "lines": ["He will contend with you upon the plain,", "With leopard claws and courage free of stain."]}, {"id": "C4.6.42", "lines": ["Then we shall see whom fortune crowns with love,", "And who shall wear the crown bestowed above."]}, {"id": "C4.6.43", "lines": ["If you decline to meet him man to man,", "But choose another course, a prudent plan,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.44", "lines": ["Then let the troops have rest throughout the night,", "And let the mountains wake with golden light."]}, {"id": "C4.6.45", "lines": ["When dark night draws its skirt from earth and sky,", "And hides its head as dawn begins to fly,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.46", "lines": ["Let us choose warriors from either side,", "Men ranked with gorzes, proved in martial pride."]}, {"id": "C4.6.47", "lines": ["We shall make earth like brocade dyed with blood,", "And stretch our foes across the crimson mud."]}, {"id": "C4.6.48", "lines": ["The second day, when cocks proclaim the light,", "Let elephant tabiras call to fight."]}, {"id": "C4.6.49", "lines": ["Then let the chiefs reinforce every line,", "And make blood run like rivers dark as wine."]}, {"id": "C4.6.50", "lines": ["The third day both our armies, mountain-high,", "Shall join in war beneath the turning sky."]}, {"id": "C4.6.51", "lines": ["Then we shall see whom heaven crowns with might,", "And whom it grants the royal throne by right.’"]}, {"id": "C4.6.52", "lines": ["If he refuses counsel that I send,", "Then challenge him yourself before the end."]}, {"id": "C4.6.53", "lines": ["Seek single combat on some distant ground,", "Far from the ranks where both our troops are found.”"]}, {"id": "C4.6.54", "lines": ["Then Shideh chose four wise men for his train,", "Men proved in counsel, hardship, loss, and gain."]}, {"id": "C4.6.55", "lines": ["He bowed before his father and withdrew;", "His father wept as grief within him grew."]}, {"id": "C4.6.56", "lines": ["A thousand warriors escorted Shideh’s way,", "Discreet, well-armed, and ready for the day."]}, {"id": "C4.6.57", "lines": ["Soon scouts of Iran saw across the plain", "The shining standard of the prince’s train."]}, {"id": "C4.6.58", "lines": ["But Turks within the vanguard, young and rash,", "Fell on the outposts in a sudden clash."]}, {"id": "C4.6.59", "lines": ["They shed the blood of Iran’s outpost men;", "Prince Shideh had not known their deed till then."]}, {"id": "C4.6.60", "lines": ["Some men of Iran suffered wounds; the clash", "Spread through the troops with weapons’ ring and crash."]}, {"id": "C4.6.61", "lines": ["When Shideh came himself upon the spot,", "He saw the outpost-guards where they had fought."]}, {"id": "C4.6.62", "lines": ["His heart was grieved; he called his warriors back,", "And turned them sharply from that wrongful track."]}, {"id": "C4.6.63", "lines": ["He told Iran’s outpost: “Send a rider straight", "To ask the Shah to hear what I relate."]}, {"id": "C4.6.64", "lines": ["Say: ‘Shideh, ardent spirit, comes to bring", "A message he would share with Iran’s king,"]}, {"id": "C4.6.65", "lines": ["From Afrasiab, Chin’s commander famed,", "Your mother’s father, by his kinship named.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.6.66", "lines": ["A horseman galloped from the outpost then,", "And reached Khosrow in haste before his men."]}, {"id": "C4.6.67", "lines": ["He said: “An envoy from Turan draws near,", "A haughty horseman, sable flag on spear."]}, {"id": "C4.6.68", "lines": ["He names himself as Shideh, and would seek", "A man to whom his message he may speak.”"]}, {"id": "C4.6.69", "lines": ["The Shah felt shame; hot tears began to rise", "And flow in sorrow from his stricken eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.6.70", "lines": ["“This is my mother’s brother,” Khosrow said,", "“My peer in stature, courage, heart, and head.”"]}, {"id": "C4.6.71", "lines": ["He looked around and saw Gharan alone,", "Of Kaveh’s race, with heart and courage known."]}, {"id": "C4.6.72", "lines": ["He said: “Go forth and greet Prince Shideh, bring", "Our grace, and hear the message of his king.”"]}, {"id": "C4.6.73", "lines": ["When Gharan reached the envoys on the plain,", "He saw the sable flag above their train."]}, {"id": "C4.6.74", "lines": ["He came to Shideh, courteous in greeting,", "And gave the Shah’s salute upon their meeting."]}, {"id": "C4.6.75", "lines": ["The young man answered him in honeyed speech,", "Bright-minded, shrewd, with wisdom in his reach."]}, {"id": "C4.6.76", "lines": ["He told what Afrasiab bade him say,", "Of peace and war and terms to end the fray."]}, {"id": "C4.6.77", "lines": ["When wise Gharan had heard the message through,", "He found its wording fair and counsel true."]}, {"id": "C4.6.78", "lines": ["He came and told the Shah the message heard;", "Sound counsel seemed to run through every word."]}, {"id": "C4.7.1", "lines": ["Khosrow then bade Gharan, his faithful guide,", "Return and bear this answer to their side:"]}, {"id": "C4.7.2", "lines": ["“Our quarrel has grown stubborn through the years;", "Too long have words resounded in our ears."]}, {"id": "C4.7.3", "lines": ["A man of honor, warrior-born and brave,", "In war does not hang back his life to save."]}, {"id": "C4.7.4", "lines": ["I ask no treasure, no Turanian land,", "For none remains beneath time’s turning hand."]}, {"id": "C4.7.5", "lines": ["Now mark to whom Yazdan of moon and sun", "Will grant success before the day is done."]}, {"id": "C4.7.6", "lines": ["By God, the Maker, mighty and supreme,", "And by Kavus, whose crown is glory’s beam,"]}, {"id": "C4.7.7", "lines": ["Who cherished me; I grant you no more hours", "Than autumn’s tempest grants the fragile flowers."]}, {"id": "C4.7.8", "lines": ["As for the wealth you offered in your plea,", "The horses and the gold you promised me,"]}, {"id": "C4.7.9", "lines": ["We need no wealth by tyranny amassed,", "For wrongful treasure never long can last."]}, {"id": "C4.7.10", "lines": ["The man who trusts in God has strength to bear;", "His heart and fortune smile beneath His care."]}, {"id": "C4.7.11", "lines": ["Your land and treasure, army, throne are mine,", "Your golden crown shall with my treasures shine."]}, {"id": "C4.7.12", "lines": ["Now Shideh, armed and ready for the fight,", "Has come and challenged me to prove his might."]}, {"id": "C4.7.13", "lines": ["At break of day I answer Shideh’s dare,", "And with my khanjar scatter heads in air."]}, {"id": "C4.7.14", "lines": ["No chief of Iran shall be sent by me", "To meet him where the field of strife shall be."]}, {"id": "C4.7.15", "lines": ["The field and sword are mine to share with him,", "Until I make his day and fortune dim."]}, {"id": "C4.7.16", "lines": ["If I prevail and strike Prince Shideh dead,", "I shall not wait the days that you have said."]}, {"id": "C4.7.17", "lines": ["Our champions then shall clash on either side,", "Until the plain with blood is crimson-dyed."]}, {"id": "C4.7.18", "lines": ["Then afterward our troops shall march in mass,", "Like mountains moving over field and grass."]}, {"id": "C4.7.19", "lines": ["When you have spoken thus, add this farewell", "To Shideh, proud in all he dares foretell:"]}, {"id": "C4.7.20", "lines": ["‘O foolish, glory-seeking, haughty chief,", "You came alone into the net of grief."]}, {"id": "C4.7.21", "lines": ["Not for your father’s message came you here;", "Your evil deeds have brought your ending near."]}, {"id": "C4.7.22", "lines": ["Yazdan of all has driven you here to die;", "Your shroud and grave beneath this plain shall lie."]}, {"id": "C4.7.23", "lines": ["This doom repays that guiltless head laid low,", "Struck like a sheep beneath the murderer’s blow."]}, {"id": "C4.7.24", "lines": ["Your father shall lament your fallen head,", "As Kay Kavus still mourns his guiltless dead.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.7.25", "lines": ["Gharan went quickly from the Shah’s command,", "And drew toward Shideh’s sable-bannered band."]}, {"id": "C4.7.26", "lines": ["He spoke Khosrow’s whole message, plain and bold,", "Withholding nothing that the Shah had told."]}, {"id": "C4.7.27", "lines": ["Then Shideh, with his heart consumed by fire,", "Returned and told his father Khosrow’s ire."]}, {"id": "C4.7.28", "lines": ["The monarch darkened, heaved a heavy sigh,", "Remembering his dream of days gone by."]}, {"id": "C4.7.29", "lines": ["The secret dream he long had kept concealed", "Now shook his heart; its warning stood revealed."]}, {"id": "C4.7.30", "lines": ["His head reeled, and his heart was seized with fear;", "He knew the straits of ruin now were near."]}, {"id": "C4.7.31", "lines": ["The king said: “Tomorrow ants shall tread", "No path across this field, so thick the dead.”"]}, {"id": "C4.7.32", "lines": ["The monarch said: “My son, from break of day,", "For two days keep all thoughts of war away."]}, {"id": "C4.7.33", "lines": ["This battle breaks my heart; I cannot rest,", "And long to tear that heart out of my breast.”"]}, {"id": "C4.7.34", "lines": ["Said Shideh: “King of Chin and Turan, hear:", "Let no despair upon this day draw near."]}, {"id": "C4.7.35", "lines": ["Tomorrow, when the sun’s bright flag unfurls,", "And light across the violet heavens swirls,"]}, {"id": "C4.7.36", "lines": ["Khosrow and I shall meet upon the plain;", "I shall raise black dust from him in war’s train.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.1", "lines": ["When azure heaven’s veil grew bright with light,", "The world shone topaz to the waking sight."]}, {"id": "C4.8.2", "lines": ["Then Shideh mounted on his battle-steed,", "His youthful heart aflame with wrath and speed."]}, {"id": "C4.8.3", "lines": ["He buckled shining armor to his breast,", "And on his head an iron helmet pressed."]}, {"id": "C4.8.4", "lines": ["A Turkish warrior bore his banner high,", "And Shideh rode beneath it, fierce of eye."]}, {"id": "C4.8.5", "lines": ["When he drew near the Shah of Iran’s ground,", "A noble hurried with the news he found:"]}, {"id": "C4.8.6", "lines": ["“A rider has come out between the lines,", "With sword in hand, where battle’s fury shines."]}, {"id": "C4.8.7", "lines": ["He says: ‘Tell Khosrow I have come to fight;", "Prince Shideh waits to meet his royal might.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.8", "lines": ["The monarch laughed; he called for jowshan, helm,", "And raised his royal standard for the realm."]}, {"id": "C4.8.9", "lines": ["He set a golden helmet on his head,", "And gave Rohham the royal flag to spread."]}, {"id": "C4.8.10", "lines": ["But all his soldiers were distressed and cried,", "As though fierce fire consumed them from inside."]}, {"id": "C4.8.11", "lines": ["A cry rose from the ranks: “O Shah, we pray,", "Let iron not wear your sacred flesh away."]}, {"id": "C4.8.12", "lines": ["The throne has always been the monarch’s seat;", "Who girded you, a vengeful foe to meet?"]}, {"id": "C4.8.13", "lines": ["May he for whom you arm yourself just now", "Be laid in dust with broken aim and vow.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.14", "lines": ["In jowshan, helm, and gorz the king stood tall,", "And hailed his troops with greeting: “Warriors all!”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.15", "lines": ["“Let no man quit his post on left or right,", "Nor center, wing, or station in the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.8.16", "lines": ["No man shall seek a skirmish on the plain;", "Heed Gudarz’s son Rohham and hold your rein."]}, {"id": "C4.8.17", "lines": ["When high above the sun begins to shine,", "Observe on whom disaster sets its sign."]}, {"id": "C4.8.18", "lines": ["If Shideh proves the conqueror in the fight,", "Then look to Rostam for command and light."]}, {"id": "C4.8.19", "lines": ["Obey him fully when his orders fall;", "In grief and danger, keep him near you all."]}, {"id": "C4.8.20", "lines": ["For troops beneath the eye of such a man", "May meet war’s craft and foil its darkest plan."]}, {"id": "C4.8.21", "lines": ["Let not your hearts be narrowed or dismayed;", "War has its rise and fall, its shine and shade."]}, {"id": "C4.8.22", "lines": ["At times it brings rejoicing, times despair;", "So hold your stations, and your hearts prepare.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.23", "lines": ["He urged Behzad, his charger black as night;", "The wind fell back before his headlong flight."]}, {"id": "C4.8.24", "lines": ["Khosrow, in breastplate, helm, and lance arrayed,", "Raised clouds of dust along the path he made."]}, {"id": "C4.8.25", "lines": ["When Shideh saw the Shah upon the plain,", "A cold sigh rose from deep within his pain:"]}, {"id": "C4.8.26", "lines": ["“You are the son of Siavash, renowned", "For wisdom and for judgment firm and sound."]}, {"id": "C4.8.27", "lines": ["You are the grandson of Turan’s great king,", "Whose helmet grazes where the moonbeams cling."]}, {"id": "C4.8.28", "lines": ["You are not what a man of seasoned mind", "Would once have thought that he should live to find."]}, {"id": "C4.8.29", "lines": ["If judgment lived in either heart or head,", "You would not seek your mother’s brother dead."]}, {"id": "C4.8.30", "lines": ["If you desire combat, leave your men;", "Choose distant ground beyond the armies then."]}, {"id": "C4.8.31", "lines": ["No army’s eye shall watch where we shall be;", "We need no helper there, just you and me.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.32", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “O lion fierce in fight,", "My father’s loss still keeps my grief alight."]}, {"id": "C4.8.33", "lines": ["I am the son of him your king struck dead;", "Of Siavash, whose guiltless blood was shed."]}, {"id": "C4.8.34", "lines": ["I came for vengeance to this field of pain,", "No throne or signet drew me to this plain."]}, {"id": "C4.8.35", "lines": ["Since from your father’s presence you set out,", "And challenged me to prove my worth past doubt,"]}, {"id": "C4.8.36", "lines": ["I may not send a lesser man instead;", "The royal answer rests upon my head."]}, {"id": "C4.8.37", "lines": ["Now choose the distant ground where we shall fight,", "Far from both armies and beyond their sight.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.38", "lines": ["They made a pact that none from either side", "Would join the combat or disturb its tide."]}, {"id": "C4.8.39", "lines": ["The standard-bearers only would draw near,", "And each remain secure and free from fear."]}, {"id": "C4.8.40", "lines": ["They rode away, their eagerness increased,", "Like joyful men who journey to a feast."]}, {"id": "C4.8.41", "lines": ["It lay within Khwarazm’s open plain,", "A fitting place for warriors’ fierce campaign."]}, {"id": "C4.8.42", "lines": ["They reached dry rocks where lions would not tread,", "Nor leopards set their claws upon that bed."]}, {"id": "C4.8.43", "lines": ["No eagle crossed that region in its flight;", "Part rock, part mirage shimmered in the light."]}, {"id": "C4.8.44", "lines": ["There those two warriors, wolf-like in their ire,", "With steeds beside them marked the field of fire."]}, {"id": "C4.8.45", "lines": ["Like hungry lions on the day of chase,", "They wheeled with lances in a furious race."]}, {"id": "C4.8.46", "lines": ["Round after round they drove with ruthless force,", "Till noon stood high above each foaming horse."]}, {"id": "C4.8.47", "lines": ["No lancehead lasted through that fierce campaign;", "Sweat soaked the bargostvans and bridle-rein."]}, {"id": "C4.8.48", "lines": ["With Roman gorzes and with swords they clashed;", "Each met the other as their weapons crashed."]}, {"id": "C4.8.49", "lines": ["Their blows made earth grow black with blood they spilled;", "Yet neither found his lust for battle stilled."]}, {"id": "C4.8.50", "lines": ["When Shideh saw Khosrow’s surpassing might,", "Tears streaked his cheeks before that royal sight."]}, {"id": "C4.8.51", "lines": ["He knew the farr that God had given him,", "And wept to think his peril was so grim."]}, {"id": "C4.8.52", "lines": ["His steed was failing, parched with thirst and heat,", "And strength was ebbing from his hands and feet."]}, {"id": "C4.8.53", "lines": ["Exhausted, he considered in his mind", "What cunning plan might leave this conflict behind."]}, {"id": "C4.8.54", "lines": ["“What if I say, ‘Dismount; let us contend", "In wrestling, drenched with sweat before the end’?"]}, {"id": "C4.8.55", "lines": ["He may refuse, from royal pride, to stand", "Dismounted with me, equals, hand to hand."]}, {"id": "C4.8.56", "lines": ["Unless this shrewd ploy can now end the fight,", "I face the dragon’s jaws and deadly bite.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.57", "lines": ["He said: “All warriors fight with sword and lance,", "And wheel their horses in the mounted dance."]}, {"id": "C4.8.58", "lines": ["But let us, Shah, contend upon our feet,", "And stretch our hands like lions when they meet.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.59", "lines": ["Khosrow perceived the purpose of his foe,", "And knew what hidden thought had shaped it so."]}, {"id": "C4.8.60", "lines": ["He thought: “If this strong lion pauses strife,", "A moment’s rest may bring his strength to life."]}, {"id": "C4.8.61", "lines": ["Of Fereydoon and Pashang’s royal race,", "He could make many brave hearts fear his face."]}, {"id": "C4.8.62", "lines": ["Yet if I fight afoot with him today,", "It may go hard for all Iran’s array.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.63", "lines": ["Then Rohham, standing near, addressed the crown:", "“Do not disgrace your birth by stepping down."]}, {"id": "C4.8.64", "lines": ["If Khosrow must fight on foot, on his own,", "Why do these mounted champions guard his throne?"]}, {"id": "C4.8.65", "lines": ["If any man must set foot on the ground,", "Let me, from Keshvad’s line, accept this round."]}, {"id": "C4.8.66", "lines": ["Let me go out to meet him in the fray,", "Not you, whose royal will all lands obey.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.67", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “O Pahlevan, now hear,", "Brave horseman, trusted friend, whom I hold dear,"]}, {"id": "C4.8.68", "lines": ["Shideh will never turn to fight with you;", "He springs from Pashang, royal-born and true."]}, {"id": "C4.8.69", "lines": ["Nor have you strength enough to meet his hand;", "No Turkish chief like him adorns their land."]}, {"id": "C4.8.70", "lines": ["A warrior sprung from Fereydoon’s own seed;", "No mother bore his equal, brave in deed."]}, {"id": "C4.8.71", "lines": ["It is no shame to meet him in the fight;", "Afoot we shall contend with leopards’ might.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.72", "lines": ["Upon the other side his herald cried:", "“O Shideh, turn from danger, turn aside."]}, {"id": "C4.8.73", "lines": ["No other course remains except retreat;", "You cannot stand when you and Khosrow meet."]}, {"id": "C4.8.74", "lines": ["To flee in time from foes upon the plain", "Is better than to stay and meet the slain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.75", "lines": ["Then Shideh told his herald, firm in pride:", "“The deeds of fighting men no one can hide."]}, {"id": "C4.8.76", "lines": ["Since first I armed myself to take the field,", "My head has reached the sun, too proud to yield."]}, {"id": "C4.8.77", "lines": ["I have not seen a warrior with such farr,", "Such strength and skill, beneath whatever star."]}, {"id": "C4.8.78", "lines": ["Yet once I enter battle, I shall brave", "Death rather than retreat; I choose the grave."]}, {"id": "C4.8.79", "lines": ["Though on a dragon’s very eye I tread,", "I cannot turn the heavens from my head."]}, {"id": "C4.8.80", "lines": ["If he must slay me here, no friend or foe", "Can ward from me that fate-appointed blow."]}, {"id": "C4.8.81", "lines": ["I cannot tell what gives him strength so great;", "God’s farr attends him in his royal state."]}, {"id": "C4.8.82", "lines": ["Perhaps on foot I still can make him yield", "And send his blood in streams across the field.”"]}, {"id": "C4.8.83", "lines": ["Then Khosrow answered Shideh on the plain:", "“O famed descendant of a noble strain,"]}, {"id": "C4.8.84", "lines": ["No man of Kayanian blood has fought", "Afoot, whatever battle he has sought."]}, {"id": "C4.8.85", "lines": ["Yet if this is your wish, then let it be;", "I shall not turn my rein from your decree.”"]}, {"id": "C4.9.1", "lines": ["The Shah dismounted from his night-dark steed,", "And bared his head, intent upon the deed."]}, {"id": "C4.9.2", "lines": ["He gave Rohham the noble charger’s rein,", "Then strode like holy fire across the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.9.3", "lines": ["When Shideh saw Khosrow come on apace,", "He left his steed and met him face to face."]}, {"id": "C4.9.4", "lines": ["Like elephants they grappled, locked and bound,", "And blood was mingled with the trampled ground."]}, {"id": "C4.9.5", "lines": ["When Shideh saw Khosrow’s commanding frame,", "And God’s own farr that clothed his royal name,"]}, {"id": "C4.9.6", "lines": ["He sought some crafty means by which to flee;", "Once gone the head, what could the body be?"]}, {"id": "C4.9.7", "lines": ["Khosrow perceived his thought, though none was said,", "And moved with God’s own strength in hand and head."]}, {"id": "C4.9.8", "lines": ["He sprang upon him like a lion bold", "That seizes on a gur within its hold."]}, {"id": "C4.9.9", "lines": ["Left hand on neck, his right upon the back,", "He raised and hurled him down with fierce attack."]}, {"id": "C4.9.10", "lines": ["His backbone broke like reeds beneath the strain;", "His sinews snapped, undone by crushing pain."]}, {"id": "C4.9.11", "lines": ["Then drawing forth his sharp and tempered blade,", "He pierced the heart that armor could not aid."]}, {"id": "C4.9.12", "lines": ["He tore the jowshan, grieving for the dead,", "Cast handfuls of the dust upon his head."]}, {"id": "C4.9.13", "lines": ["To Rohham: “This ill-omened chief,” he cried,", "“My mother’s valiant brother, now has died."]}, {"id": "C4.9.14", "lines": ["Treat him with kindness, though his life is done;", "Prepare a royal tomb for this king’s son."]}, {"id": "C4.9.15", "lines": ["With musk, rosewater, fragrant balm, be sure", "To wash his flesh; his head with camphor pure."]}, {"id": "C4.9.16", "lines": ["A golden torque around his neck shall rest;", "With ambergris his cap shall then be dressed.”"]}, {"id": "C4.9.17", "lines": ["His interpreter looked toward the plain,", "And saw the body of the prince lie slain."]}, {"id": "C4.9.18", "lines": ["They raised him blood-stained from the stretch of sand,", "And bore him toward Khosrow’s awaiting band."]}, {"id": "C4.9.19", "lines": ["The interpreter drew near with cries of woe:", "“O just and glorious Shah, your mercy show."]}, {"id": "C4.9.20", "lines": ["A humble servant’s duty was my trade;", "No warrior’s hand or champion’s part I played."]}, {"id": "C4.9.21", "lines": ["O Shah, forgive me through your kindness here;", "May joy in you delight the heavenly sphere.”"]}, {"id": "C4.9.22", "lines": ["Khosrow replied: “At my grandfather’s court,", "Make all you saw of me your full report.”"]}, {"id": "C4.9.23", "lines": ["The nobles watched the road with anxious eyes:", "“When will Prince Shideh come?” arose their cries."]}, {"id": "C4.9.24", "lines": ["A rider sped across the yielding sand,", "Bareheaded, weeping, toward the royal band."]}, {"id": "C4.9.25", "lines": ["He told Afrasiab what had occurred,", "Concealing nothing of the deed or word."]}, {"id": "C4.9.26", "lines": ["The king despaired of all the world held dear,", "And tore his camphor-white locks in his fear."]}, {"id": "C4.9.27", "lines": ["He scattered dust upon his royal head;", "The army’s champion had departed, dead."]}, {"id": "C4.9.28", "lines": ["All those who saw the Turkish monarch’s face", "Beat breasts and tore their robes in that sad place."]}, {"id": "C4.9.29", "lines": ["A cry arose among the ranks below:", "“The sun and moon their mercy now bestow!”"]}, {"id": "C4.9.30", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab cried out in his grief:", "“No rest or sleep shall bring me more relief."]}, {"id": "C4.9.31", "lines": ["Stand as companions in this grief I bear;", "Let every man in all my mourning share."]}, {"id": "C4.9.32", "lines": ["Our swords shall stay unsheathed upon the plain;", "I shall know joy no more, but only pain."]}, {"id": "C4.9.33", "lines": ["Now arm yourselves; leave nothing whole or sound", "Of all Iran, its mountains and its ground."]}, {"id": "C4.9.34", "lines": ["Count him no man, but beast devoid of heart,", "Who does not mourn that Shideh must depart."]}, {"id": "C4.9.35", "lines": ["May eyes that shed no tears of blood with mine", "Have neither shame nor moisture left to shine.”"]}, {"id": "C4.9.36", "lines": ["He mourned that warrior with his face of light,", "That cypress by the stream, so tall and bright."]}, {"id": "C4.9.37", "lines": ["He wept red tears, relentless in his pain,", "A grief no healer knew how to restrain."]}, {"id": "C4.9.38", "lines": ["The nobles answered, sharing all his woe,", "And spoke these words to soothe that bitter blow:"]}, {"id": "C4.9.39", "lines": ["“May God, the just Judge, ease this grief for you,", "And fill your enemies with terror too."]}, {"id": "C4.9.40", "lines": ["Not one shall rest by night or breathe by day;", "For Shideh’s death, revenge shall find its way."]}, {"id": "C4.9.41", "lines": ["We shall raise war-cries till the heavens ring,", "And stake our heads in battle for the king."]}, {"id": "C4.9.42", "lines": ["The feud for Piran, Houman, scarcely past,", "Now vengeance upon vengeance gathers fast.”"]}, {"id": "C4.9.43", "lines": ["Their hearts were broken for their monarch’s sake;", "The field with cries and tumult seemed to shake."]}, {"id": "C4.10.1", "lines": ["When Sol in Taurus lifted up his light,", "And larks were singing over plains grown bright,"]}, {"id": "C4.10.2", "lines": ["The kousts rang out, resounding through the air,", "With horns and brazen karnays everywhere."]}, {"id": "C4.10.3", "lines": ["Then Jahan led thirty thousand swordsmen bold,", "Equipped for war, their hearts like tempered gold."]}, {"id": "C4.10.4", "lines": ["Khosrow beheld them and gave swift command;", "Gharan came forward with his veteran band."]}, {"id": "C4.10.5", "lines": ["He left the center, mountain-like in might,", "And wore brave Jahan down amid the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.6", "lines": ["Then Gostaham, brave son of Nohzar’s line,", "Rushed right, his battle-standard raised to shine."]}, {"id": "C4.10.7", "lines": ["The horsemen’s dust spread violet through the air;", "Below were troops, above them banners fair."]}, {"id": "C4.10.8", "lines": ["Khosrow stood firm within the center’s heart;", "Nor did Afrasiab from his center part."]}, {"id": "C4.10.9", "lines": ["A battle joined whose like no chief could tell,", "No warrior knew its equal, fierce and fell."]}, {"id": "C4.10.10", "lines": ["They slew so many of the Turkish band,", "A sea of blood spread out across the land."]}, {"id": "C4.10.11", "lines": ["Till darkness fell and sight began to fade,", "In helm and jowshan fought the lines arrayed."]}, {"id": "C4.10.12", "lines": ["When brave Gharan had won that bitter fray,", "The valiant Jahan’s fortune fell away."]}, {"id": "C4.10.13", "lines": ["When on the sun’s high throne the moon shone bright,", "The warriors then withdrew beneath the night."]}, {"id": "C4.10.14", "lines": ["Khosrow rejoiced in all Iran’s success,", "Whose warriors had prevailed in battle’s press."]}, {"id": "C4.10.15", "lines": ["All night they armed for battle; no repose", "Or food was theirs until the sun arose."]}, {"id": "C4.10.16", "lines": ["When Sol from Cancer rose, the world grew rife", "With battle’s gathering roar and newborn strife."]}, {"id": "C4.10.17", "lines": ["The bands of both realms formed their lines to fight,", "And every lip foamed white with wrath and spite."]}, {"id": "C4.10.18", "lines": ["Khosrow, attended by a servant tried,", "Withdrew behind the rear and stepped aside."]}, {"id": "C4.10.19", "lines": ["He dismounted there and thanked the Maker’s grace,", "Then laid upon the darkened dust his face."]}, {"id": "C4.10.20", "lines": ["He said: “O Judge, all-holy, just, and true,", "The wrongs that I have borne are known to You."]}, {"id": "C4.10.21", "lines": ["For many days I bore the wrong he wrought;", "Requite in blood the suffering he brought."]}, {"id": "C4.10.22", "lines": ["Guide me, oppressed by tyranny and wrong,", "And let Your justice make my spirit strong.”"]}, {"id": "C4.10.23", "lines": ["Then grief and vengeance set his heart aflame,", "His hatred fixed on those of Zadeshm’s name."]}, {"id": "C4.10.24", "lines": ["He reached the army’s center in his might,", "And set his gleaming helmet firm and tight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.25", "lines": ["The battle-cry arose; the horns replied,", "Tabiras and brazen karnays thundered wide."]}, {"id": "C4.10.26", "lines": ["The opposing forces marched like mountains vast,", "Troop after troop, as through the field they passed."]}, {"id": "C4.10.27", "lines": ["With Jahan and Afrasiab at its heart,", "The army seemed a sea in every part."]}, {"id": "C4.10.28", "lines": ["As both great armies marched across the ground,", "The hills and plains themselves seemed to be bound."]}, {"id": "C4.10.29", "lines": ["Dust and the eagle-feathered arrows’ flight,", "Their diamond points, concealed the sun from sight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.30", "lines": ["So loud the horns, so thick the dust that rose,", "So fierce the warriors’ cries against their foes,"]}, {"id": "C4.10.31", "lines": ["Iron and rock and mountains seemed to flow;", "The nahang and the leopard melted so."]}, {"id": "C4.10.32", "lines": ["Earth heaved; the air was filled with crashing sound;", "The roar could split the ears of lions round."]}, {"id": "C4.10.33", "lines": ["The world seemed Ahriman’s from end to end;", "And heaven seemed an enemy, no friend."]}, {"id": "C4.10.34", "lines": ["And everywhere the slaughtered lay in heaps,", "Iran and Turan fallen where war reaps."]}, {"id": "C4.10.35", "lines": ["The sand was blood and severed hands and feet;", "Earth’s heart shook hard beneath the horses’ beat."]}, {"id": "C4.10.36", "lines": ["The open ground beneath the trampling force", "Seemed linen stiff with blood beneath each horse."]}, {"id": "C4.10.37", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s warriors moved across the plain,", "Like ships that sail upon the rolling main."]}, {"id": "C4.10.38", "lines": ["They struck the archers’ towers, citadels high,", "That rode on elephants beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C4.10.39", "lines": ["The beasts stood like a fortress in the way,", "Before the center of Iran’s array."]}, {"id": "C4.10.40", "lines": ["Within their towers the archers held their place,", "And met the coming warriors face to face."]}, {"id": "C4.10.41", "lines": ["A rain of arrows poured from tower and frame;", "The cries of battle rose as foemen came."]}, {"id": "C4.10.42", "lines": ["The spearmen and the elephants came on,", "With countless warriors from the center drawn."]}, {"id": "C4.10.43", "lines": ["Two farsang off, Afrasiab surveyed", "The towered elephants, their ranks displayed."]}, {"id": "C4.10.44", "lines": ["He brought his own huge elephants ahead;", "The world grew dark; the last of light had fled."]}, {"id": "C4.10.45", "lines": ["He shouted: “Warriors of my royal side,", "Why crowd the beasts and press so close beside?"]}, {"id": "C4.10.46", "lines": ["Your idle troops spread farsangs all around;", "Leave tower and elephant, take open ground."]}, {"id": "C4.10.47", "lines": ["Spread right and left, and widen out the fight;", "Withdraw beyond the center, left and right.”"]}, {"id": "C4.10.48", "lines": ["He ordered Jahan, no novice in the fray,", "To leave his post and ride without delay."]}, {"id": "C4.10.49", "lines": ["With mighty men, ten thousand horse in all,", "All lancers armed and ready at his call,"]}, {"id": "C4.10.50", "lines": ["Towrag, a warlike elephant in might,", "Sped left with noble warriors to the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.51", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow perceived the Turks’ attack,", "And saw their dust turn all the sunlight black,"]}, {"id": "C4.10.52", "lines": ["He turned to Samkunan and all his band,", "Those battle-lions fierce in heart and hand."]}, {"id": "C4.10.53", "lines": ["“Shine on the left like Sol in Aries bright,”", "He said, and sent them flashing into fight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.54", "lines": ["They rode forth with ten thousand noble men,", "Young lancers eager for the strife again."]}, {"id": "C4.10.55", "lines": ["He next bade Shammakh, Sur’s renowned king,", "Choose men from Iran’s ranks to form his wing."]}, {"id": "C4.10.56", "lines": ["“Select ten thousand armored men to wield", "Their ox-head gorzes on the battlefield."]}, {"id": "C4.10.57", "lines": ["Unsheathe your swords and press between their lines;", "Heed no man there; bend low where battle shines.”"]}, {"id": "C4.10.58", "lines": ["The armies grappled, mingled in one throng,", "One mass, one mountain, locked in struggle long."]}, {"id": "C4.10.59", "lines": ["From either side there rose a crashing sound;", "Blood ran in streams across the trampled ground."]}, {"id": "C4.10.60", "lines": ["Dust rose on either side in clouds that spread;", "“Bring me my khaftan for war,” the Shah said."]}, {"id": "C4.10.61", "lines": ["They led aside the towered elephant train;", "The world became the Nile across the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.10.62", "lines": ["Then Rostam from the center rode ahead,", "And toward the tumult of the battle sped."]}, {"id": "C4.10.63", "lines": ["With him came Manushan and Khuzan bold,", "The army’s refuge when the battles rolled."]}, {"id": "C4.10.64", "lines": ["The karnay and the koust rang; on one hand", "Stood Tus beside the Shah in high command."]}, {"id": "C4.10.65", "lines": ["With Kaveh’s standard splendid to the sight,", "The golden-booted chiefs stood armed for fight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.66", "lines": ["They left their stations, hearts oppressed with pain,", "And formed the Shah’s left wing upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.10.67", "lines": ["Then Rostam and Zavareh faced the right,", "His brother at his side, prepared to smite."]}, {"id": "C4.10.68", "lines": ["Old Gudarz, son of Keshvad, brought support,", "With noble chiefs who formed his strong escort."]}, {"id": "C4.10.69", "lines": ["Zarasp and prudent Manushan came too,", "And strengthened Rostam’s wing with warriors true."]}, {"id": "C4.10.70", "lines": ["The din of war rose from the battlefield;", "No former fight such terrors had revealed."]}, {"id": "C4.10.71", "lines": ["The soil was strewn with dead and wounded men,", "Whose days of fortune would not come again."]}, {"id": "C4.10.72", "lines": ["No passage could be found across the plain,", "So thickly lay the bodies of the slain."]}, {"id": "C4.10.73", "lines": ["The desert, like the Jihun, ran with blood;", "One headless, one overturned, lay in that flood."]}, {"id": "C4.10.74", "lines": ["The cries of horse and rider from the field", "Rose higher than the booming kousts could yield."]}, {"id": "C4.10.75", "lines": ["The mountains’ hearts seemed split by war within;", "Earth seemed to fly with horsemen in that din."]}, {"id": "C4.10.76", "lines": ["Here severed heads lay scattered all about;", "There headless trunks fell as the gorzes rang out."]}, {"id": "C4.10.77", "lines": ["The sun itself sought flight before the blade,", "Before the sword and falchion’s flashing shade."]}, {"id": "C4.10.78", "lines": ["A dark cloud seemed to gather on the plain,", "And shower down a storm of bloody rain."]}, {"id": "C4.10.79", "lines": ["Upon the left, Jaranjash’ life was done;", "He fell to Fariborz, King Kavus’s son."]}, {"id": "C4.10.80", "lines": ["Upon the right, Kahila, huge in might,", "Fell by Manushan’s blade amid the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.81", "lines": ["A hundred elephants in strength was he;", "Then wind and cloud rose southward, dark to see."]}, {"id": "C4.10.82", "lines": ["They covered up the sun; earth lost its light,", "And all men’s eyes grew dim amid that night."]}, {"id": "C4.10.83", "lines": ["As sunset leaned and shadows thickened near,", "The Turkish monarch’s heart was moved by fear."]}, {"id": "C4.10.84", "lines": ["From every kingdom, frontier, hill, and field,", "The horsemen pressed ahead with sword and shield."]}, {"id": "C4.10.85", "lines": ["Their jowshans, banners, differed to the sight;", "Red, yellow, violet filled the world with light."]}, {"id": "C4.10.86", "lines": ["When Garsivaz behind his brother stayed,", "He sent his troops through streams of blood to wade."]}, {"id": "C4.10.87", "lines": ["He sent a noble band upon the right,", "Men one in soul and body for the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.88", "lines": ["Another band he spread along the left,", "With chiefs on every side in warfare deft."]}, {"id": "C4.10.89", "lines": ["He held some forty thousand in his band,", "Chosen horsemen, swords at his command."]}, {"id": "C4.10.90", "lines": ["Then from behind the army he rode near", "His brother, pressing through the battle’s fear."]}, {"id": "C4.10.91", "lines": ["Afrasiab saw Garsivaz arrive,", "And strengthened, drove his army on to strive."]}, {"id": "C4.10.92", "lines": ["The battle roared; the air itself was veiled,", "As feathered shafts across the darkness sailed."]}, {"id": "C4.10.93", "lines": ["When darkness came behind the sinking sun,", "And day was almost night and nearly done,"]}, {"id": "C4.10.94", "lines": ["False Garsivaz rushed toward the king in dread,", "And spoke these fearful words with lowered head:"]}, {"id": "C4.10.95", "lines": ["“Who of our warriors still desires fight?", "The earth is blood, the air is dust and night."]}, {"id": "C4.10.96", "lines": ["Withdraw the army now that night is here;", "The Turks’ loud cries will soon assail your ear."]}, {"id": "C4.10.97", "lines": ["Your troops will leave you, scattering in flight;", "Do not contend against yourself tonight.”"]}, {"id": "C4.10.98", "lines": ["The king’s heart seethed with anger at the word;", "So fierce his wrath, no counsel could be heard."]}, {"id": "C4.10.99", "lines": ["He spurred his charger from the troops’ array,", "His sable banner streaming on the way."]}, {"id": "C4.10.100", "lines": ["He slew Iran’s famed warriors in his track;", "Khosrow perceived and followed at his back."]}, {"id": "C4.10.101", "lines": ["Both king and shah pressed on with thin escort,", "Each bent on vengeance, seeking no support."]}, {"id": "C4.10.102", "lines": ["Yet Garsivaz and Jahan would not allow", "Afrasiab to face Iran’s Shah now."]}, {"id": "C4.10.103", "lines": ["They seized their monarch’s reins and turned his steed,", "Then hurried him toward Amuy at full speed."]}, {"id": "C4.10.104", "lines": ["As he withdrew, Ustukila came fast,", "To challenge Khosrow as the king rode past."]}, {"id": "C4.10.105", "lines": ["King Ila rushed, a nahang in the fight,", "And Burzuyala, eminent in might."]}, {"id": "C4.10.106", "lines": ["Three ruthless horsemen of the Turks were known", "For blood and battle, merciless as stone."]}, {"id": "C4.10.107", "lines": ["The Shah perceived them, spurred from out the throng,", "And charged, a mountain, resolute and strong."]}, {"id": "C4.10.108", "lines": ["He struck Ustukila with his long spear,", "And hurled him from the saddle, falling clear."]}, {"id": "C4.10.109", "lines": ["King Ila struck Khosrow upon the belt,", "But Khosrow’s breastplate turned the blow he dealt."]}, {"id": "C4.10.110", "lines": ["The spear could plant no terror in his heart;", "The Shah stood fearless, ready for his part."]}, {"id": "C4.10.111", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw his courage and his might,", "He drew his sharpened sword to end the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.112", "lines": ["He struck across King Ila’s waist and slew,", "And with that stroke he cut the man in two."]}, {"id": "C4.10.113", "lines": ["Then Burzuyala’s heart was seized with dread;", "He saw the force that laid his comrade dead."]}, {"id": "C4.10.114", "lines": ["He saw Khosrow’s great courage and the blow,", "And knew the strength and splendor of his foe."]}, {"id": "C4.10.115", "lines": ["He fled into the dark with trembling heart,", "As though his very skin were torn apart."]}, {"id": "C4.10.116", "lines": ["The troops beheld his prowess in the fight;", "No champion stood; they all gave way in flight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.117", "lines": ["That news to Afrasiab was death and dread;", "He wished he had faced Khosrow there instead."]}, {"id": "C4.10.118", "lines": ["When tidings of the Turks had reached his ear,", "His day seemed shortened, and his end drew near."]}, {"id": "C4.10.119", "lines": ["They left the field; he ordered men to cry", "His challenge, loud beneath the darkened sky:"]}, {"id": "C4.10.120", "lines": ["“This lion’s valor comes from sheltering night;", "Its narrow darkness makes me leave the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.10.121", "lines": ["If fortune’s wind has favored you today,", "And opened up the gates of joy your way,"]}, {"id": "C4.10.122", "lines": ["When dawn brings light across the darkened plain,", "Behold my heart-rejoicing flag and train."]}, {"id": "C4.10.123", "lines": ["Then we shall drown Iran and veil the skies,", "Till sun seems Pleiades before your eyes.”"]}, {"id": "C4.10.124", "lines": ["Both monarch and the Shah withdrew their train, ", "And sought their camps across the darkened plain,"]}, {"id": "C4.10.125", "lines": ["Each brooding on the blood already shed, ", "And on the morrow’s vengeance overhead."]}, {"id": "C4.11.1", "lines": ["When half the dark of night had passed away,", "And heaven wheeled above the hills toward day,"]}, {"id": "C4.11.2", "lines": ["The king packed up his baggage for the road,", "And helms and jowshans on his troops bestowed."]}, {"id": "C4.11.3", "lines": ["Ten thousand riders, at the king’s command,", "On steeds in bargostvan would guard the band."]}, {"id": "C4.11.4", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab told his troops that night:", "“Once I have crossed the river in our flight,"]}, {"id": "C4.11.5", "lines": ["Come after me, each following the last,", "Across the Jihun, till you all have passed.”"]}, {"id": "C4.11.6", "lines": ["From Amvi, when the dark had closed around,", "He crossed the river, fleeing, homeward bound."]}, {"id": "C4.11.7", "lines": ["On roads and trackless ground, on every side,", "The tents stood empty, scattered far and wide."]}, {"id": "C4.11.8", "lines": ["When dawn spread out its early morning light,", "The outposts saw no enemy in sight."]}, {"id": "C4.11.9", "lines": ["The scouts brought joyful tidings from the plain:", "“The Shah is spared this battle’s further strain."]}, {"id": "C4.11.10", "lines": ["We see the tents and all their ordered ground,", "But not one hostile rider can be found.”"]}, {"id": "C4.11.11", "lines": ["Khosrow at once fell prostrate on the earth,", "And praised the Judge, Yazdan of holy worth."]}, {"id": "C4.11.12", "lines": ["He said: “O glorious Maker, Lord and Guide,", "Provider, Judge, whose justice none can hide,"]}, {"id": "C4.11.13", "lines": ["You gave me farr, the crown, and strength to rise;", "You blinded all my foes in heart and eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.11.14", "lines": ["Now drive this tyrant from the earthly sphere,", "And keep him sick through all his years with fear.”"]}, {"id": "C4.11.15", "lines": ["The sun raised up its golden shield of light;", "A turquoise veil concealed the head of night."]}, {"id": "C4.11.16", "lines": ["The royal Shah mounted the ivory throne,", "And donned the crown that made all hearts his own."]}, {"id": "C4.11.17", "lines": ["The army cried: “May long the Shah endure;", "May crown and state remain with him secure.”"]}, {"id": "C4.11.18", "lines": ["The troops lacked nothing; booty filled the plain,", "Left by Afrasiab and all his train."]}, {"id": "C4.11.19", "lines": ["They cried, “Alas! His troops have slipped away,", "With all their horns and kousts in their array."]}, {"id": "C4.11.20", "lines": ["The famous monarch fled before the light,", "And safely slipped beyond our swords by night.”"]}, {"id": "C4.11.21", "lines": ["The shrewd Shah said: “Chiefs of Iran, attend;", "Hear what I say of this encounter’s end:"]}, {"id": "C4.11.22", "lines": ["An enemy lies slain, and that is good;", "Or flees the field where once his army stood."]}, {"id": "C4.11.23", "lines": ["Since God has granted us the royal crown,", "With greatness, farr, and sovereign renown,"]}, {"id": "C4.11.24", "lines": ["Give thanks to Him in every place and hour,", "With ceaseless blessings raised before His power."]}, {"id": "C4.11.25", "lines": ["He makes whom He wills luckless in his need,", "And sets the worthless on the throne to lead."]}, {"id": "C4.11.26", "lines": ["Why strive or question what His will has planned?", "No slave can stand against His high command."]}, {"id": "C4.11.27", "lines": ["I shall remain here now for five days more;", "The sixth is Ormozd, blessed in sacred lore."]}, {"id": "C4.11.28", "lines": ["Upon the seventh, we shall take the road;", "He feeds the feud; we claim the vengeance owed.”"]}, {"id": "C4.11.29", "lines": ["For five days on that battlefield they sought", "The men of Iran slain where they had fought."]}, {"id": "C4.11.30", "lines": ["They washed the dust from those whose lives had fled,", "And built a fitting tomb to house the dead."]}, {"id": "C4.12.1", "lines": ["Khosrow then called a ready scribe to hand,", "With paper, musk, and abir at command."]}, {"id": "C4.12.2", "lines": ["They wrote a letter from the battlefield,", "To tell Kavus what victory had revealed."]}, {"id": "C4.12.3", "lines": ["The letter first gave praise to God, whose will", "Provides our guidance through both good and ill."]}, {"id": "C4.12.4", "lines": ["Khosrow declared: “May my great monarch’s might", "Stand like the mountains, steadfast in their height."]}, {"id": "C4.12.5", "lines": ["He fears for me as though I were his son;", "May grief afflict his foes, each hostile one."]}, {"id": "C4.12.6", "lines": ["From fair Iran I reached Farab’s broad land;", "Three nights we fought three battles on its sand."]}, {"id": "C4.12.7", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s horsemen passed all count and lore,", "Beyond what dreaming sages knew before."]}, {"id": "C4.12.8", "lines": ["Three hundred severed heads I send as signs,", "From famed sepahbods of his battle lines."]}, {"id": "C4.12.9", "lines": ["His brother, son, and kinsmen met their end,", "With honored chiefs on whom he could depend."]}, {"id": "C4.12.10", "lines": ["Two hundred captive chiefs I send; in might,", "Each matched a hundred lions in the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.12.11", "lines": ["We fought upon Khwarazm’s open plain,", "And Heaven’s blessing crowned our hard campaign."]}, {"id": "C4.12.12", "lines": ["Afrasiab has fled; we press behind,", "To see what turn of fortune we shall find.”"]}, {"id": "C4.12.13", "lines": ["With musk they sealed the letter as he planned;", "Then he passed on across the arid sand."]}, {"id": "C4.12.14", "lines": ["He said, “May blessings on this field abide,", "With lasting fortune ever at its side.”"]}, {"id": "C4.13.1", "lines": ["Across the Jihun Afrasiab sped;", "Like rushing wind, across its flood he fled."]}, {"id": "C4.13.2", "lines": ["He reached Qarakhan’s army with his men;", "Each told what he had seen in battle then."]}, {"id": "C4.13.3", "lines": ["The Turkish king wept for his fallen kin;", "How deep the grief that wracked his heart within!"]}, {"id": "C4.13.4", "lines": ["He mourned his son, his kinsmen, and his peers,", "His famous chiefs, with bitter, flowing tears."]}, {"id": "C4.13.5", "lines": ["A cry of anguish rose beneath the skies;", "Clouds seemed to rain blood from the lion’s eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.13.6", "lines": ["He lingered in Bukhara, sunk in woe,", "To wait for lions who would face the foe."]}, {"id": "C4.13.7", "lines": ["He called the great and haughty chiefs who stayed,", "The few survivors spared by battle’s blade."]}, {"id": "C4.13.8", "lines": ["Then all the army’s counselors drew near,", "The men whose prudent words the king would hear."]}, {"id": "C4.13.9", "lines": ["They spoke before their monarch in despair,", "Their hearts worn down by warfare’s heavy care:"]}, {"id": "C4.13.10", "lines": ["“Our foremost men have passed from life away;", "Our hearts are sunk in mourning and dismay."]}, {"id": "C4.13.11", "lines": ["Of every hundred, scarcely twenty live;", "The dead command the tears our hearts can give."]}, {"id": "C4.13.12", "lines": ["We tore our hearts from treasure, child, and kin,", "And all the ties our hearts were rooted in."]}, {"id": "C4.13.13", "lines": ["Beyond the Jihun, at our king’s command,", "We made our field of battle on that land."]}, {"id": "C4.13.14", "lines": ["You know what folly brought us to this plight;", "You rule; we seek a way to set things right."]}, {"id": "C4.13.15", "lines": ["If now the monarch will accept our view,", "Withdraw toward Chakh; that course is best for you."]}, {"id": "C4.13.16", "lines": ["When Khosrow comes, his vengeance to pursue,", "Your army must its broken ranks renew."]}, {"id": "C4.13.17", "lines": ["If now the Shah will heed the course we show,", "Across the Gulzaryun his troops must go."]}, {"id": "C4.13.18", "lines": ["At Gang-Behesht, then take rest from all strain;", "There you may fight, or peacefully remain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.13.19", "lines": ["No other plan was offered; all agreed,", "And chose this course to meet their pressing need."]}, {"id": "C4.13.20", "lines": ["Toward Gulzaryun they went, their eyes a flood,", "Their hearts within them filled with grief and blood."]}, {"id": "C4.13.21", "lines": ["Three days the Turkish king remained; he sought,", "With hawks and cheetahs, rest from anxious thought."]}, {"id": "C4.13.22", "lines": ["From there they made for Gang without delay;", "He made no lengthy halt along the way."]}, {"id": "C4.13.23", "lines": ["The city seemed a paradise to behold,", "Its clay was purest musk, its bricks were gold."]}, {"id": "C4.13.24", "lines": ["There, glad and smiling, he lay down to rest,", "As though with safety he were wholly blessed."]}, {"id": "C4.13.25", "lines": ["He summoned warriors in from every side,", "Great chiefs and potentates in martial pride."]}, {"id": "C4.13.26", "lines": ["Wine, harp and rabab, gardens full of flowers;", "Rose, hyacinth, and cup beguiled his hours."]}, {"id": "C4.13.27", "lines": ["He drank, while fate still hid its work from sight,", "And watched to learn what time would bring to light."]}, {"id": "C4.13.28", "lines": ["From every side, his secret agents came,", "And one by one their tidings were the same:"]}, {"id": "C4.13.29", "lines": ["“Khosrow has crossed the Jihun with his train;", "His army now has reached the open plain."]}, {"id": "C4.13.30", "lines": ["See what you need, and make it ready here,", "Lest all at once his army should appear.”"]}, {"id": "C4.14.1", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow had crossed Jihun’s wide sweep,", "He lost all taste for food, repose, and sleep."]}, {"id": "C4.14.2", "lines": ["When all his troops had crossed the river’s flow,", "He sent this proclamation high and low:"]}, {"id": "C4.14.3", "lines": ["“Let none be frightened as I pass this way;", "To holy God on my behalf now pray.”"]}, {"id": "C4.14.4", "lines": ["He gave the poor rich treasure from his store;", "To those who pleased him, he gave even more."]}, {"id": "C4.14.5", "lines": ["He reached the marches of Sughd, wide and waste,", "A home for owls, by ruin long defaced."]}, {"id": "C4.14.6", "lines": ["Upon that land he lavished royal treasure,", "To make its ruins bloom with ease and pleasure."]}, {"id": "C4.14.7", "lines": ["Wherever he encamped, men sought his grace,", "And came to ask for safety in that place."]}, {"id": "C4.14.8", "lines": ["Then tidings reached Khosrow of Turan’s king,", "And of the troops he summoned to his wing:"]}, {"id": "C4.14.9", "lines": ["“Baghzadila and Kakula now stand", "Beside him with a lion-hearted band."]}, {"id": "C4.14.10", "lines": ["Descended from King Tur, with hate aflame,", "He sought the hour when war and battle came."]}, {"id": "C4.14.11", "lines": ["He sent to Chakh a force of high renown,", "Intent upon the Turks’ own throne and crown."]}, {"id": "C4.14.12", "lines": ["With Towrag at their head, a mighty band", "Of warriors rode out through the desert sand."]}, {"id": "C4.14.13", "lines": ["They hold the road against the Iranian train,", "And mean to bar the passage through the plain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.14.14", "lines": ["Khosrow was not disturbed; his thoughts were wise,", "And sober counsel ruled his watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.14.15", "lines": ["From Barda and Ardabil troops drew near,", "All armed, obedient, and free from fear."]}, {"id": "C4.14.16", "lines": ["He bade the troops before his presence go,", "Chiefs, priests, and marzbans counted row by row."]}, {"id": "C4.14.17", "lines": ["They marched with Gostaham to lead the fight,", "Who faced the lions’ onset without fright."]}, {"id": "C4.14.18", "lines": ["He bade the men of Nimruz take the field", "With Rostam, who made mighty warriors yield."]}, {"id": "C4.14.19", "lines": ["“Go forth on camels, leading every steed,", "And move unseen with secrecy and speed."]}, {"id": "C4.14.20", "lines": ["Make haste to where the hostile troops are found,", "And take them unawares when night comes round.”"]}, {"id": "C4.14.21", "lines": ["The two crown-seeking champions left his side;", "One took the desert, one to Chakh would ride."]}, {"id": "C4.14.22", "lines": ["A month in Sughd the Shah remained in place,", "Amid a loyal people rich in grace."]}, {"id": "C4.14.23", "lines": ["He paid his troops and let their strength renew,", "While for the coming war his plans he drew."]}, {"id": "C4.14.24", "lines": ["He sought out men who knew the art of siege,", "And how to break a fortress for their liege."]}, {"id": "C4.14.25", "lines": ["He brought them in, their service to secure;", "The wicked found their rest would not endure."]}, {"id": "C4.14.26", "lines": ["He left that place, his head held high in pride,", "With loins girt fast and arms for war supplied."]}, {"id": "C4.14.27", "lines": ["From Sughd and Kashan forth the army came;", "The world was lost in wonder at his name."]}, {"id": "C4.14.28", "lines": ["The tidings reached the Turks: “The Shah is near;", "Khosrow, who seeks revenge, is coming here.”"]}, {"id": "C4.14.29", "lines": ["Then all took refuge in their holds from dread;", "Through all the world, alarm and tumult spread."]}, {"id": "C4.14.30", "lines": ["The Shah addressed his men and plainly said:", "“Today a different law must guide our tread."]}, {"id": "C4.14.31", "lines": ["Those Turks who bow beneath our rule and might,", "And in their hearts regret the will to fight,"]}, {"id": "C4.14.32", "lines": ["Do not attack them; let no blood be shed,", "And let no man by you be wrongly led."]}, {"id": "C4.14.33", "lines": ["But any man whose heart remains in hate,", "Who seeks with troops to fight and tempt his fate,"]}, {"id": "C4.14.34", "lines": ["Against such foes, wherever they are found,", "You have my leave to spill blood on the ground."]}, {"id": "C4.14.35", "lines": ["Their goods are yours to plunder as you go;", "You have my leave to hang the hostile foe.”"]}, {"id": "C4.14.36", "lines": ["Through Iran’s army rose a mighty cry;", "“Our Shah is free of spite!” was their reply."]}, {"id": "C4.14.37", "lines": ["“Let food pass freely; let all hatred cease,”", "The Shah declared. “Let all people be in peace.”"]}, {"id": "C4.14.38", "lines": ["They turned deeper in Turan; troops were sent;", "The world rang out with tumult as they went."]}, {"id": "C4.14.39", "lines": ["Whoever bowed and did as he was told", "Was left in peace by all the warriors bold."]}, {"id": "C4.14.40", "lines": ["Yet Turks, in dread of Afrasiab’s power,", "Denied the thirsty water in that hour."]}, {"id": "C4.14.41", "lines": ["If any soldier lagged behind the train,", "They found him headless, on the roadway slain."]}, {"id": "C4.14.42", "lines": ["The warriors went against the strongholds then,", "Against the holds of proud and warlike men."]}, {"id": "C4.14.43", "lines": ["They razed each fortress; nothing stood at all,", "No dwelling-place, no royal court or wall."]}, {"id": "C4.14.44", "lines": ["No slave or servant, herd or beast remained;", "No trace of all the wealth those holds contained."]}, {"id": "C4.14.45", "lines": ["A hundred farsangs thus the army passed;", "No fortress stood, no settled fields held fast."]}, {"id": "C4.14.46", "lines": ["He marched to Gulzaryun with chosen guides,", "And searched the land on all its hidden sides."]}, {"id": "C4.14.47", "lines": ["He saw a world of gardens clothed in green,", "With dale and plain and hill in living sheen."]}, {"id": "C4.14.48", "lines": ["The mountains teemed with game, the plains with trees,", "A world for favored folk and days of ease."]}, {"id": "C4.14.49", "lines": ["He sent out scouts and spies on every side,", "To learn what hidden dangers might abide."]}, {"id": "C4.14.50", "lines": ["They pitched the young shah’s camp beside a stream;", "His royal tent stood by the water’s gleam."]}, {"id": "C4.14.51", "lines": ["The shah sat on his throne of gleaming gold;", "Beside him sat his loyal chieftains bold."]}, {"id": "C4.14.52", "lines": ["He held a feast all night till dawn’s first ray;", "The dead seemed stirred to rise from their dark clay."]}, {"id": "C4.14.53", "lines": ["At Gang, Afrasiab, in constant thought,", "Took counsel, and the rightful course he sought."]}, {"id": "C4.14.54", "lines": ["He spoke with all the men whose judgment bore", "The weight of years and skill in martial lore."]}, {"id": "C4.14.55", "lines": ["“The enemy has reached our very bed;", "How can we rest within our Gang?” he said."]}, {"id": "C4.14.56", "lines": ["The elders all spoke out, their counsel clear:", "“The foe has drawn beside us and is near."]}, {"id": "C4.14.57", "lines": ["We see no course but war for us to take;", "Submission is no choice our troops can make.”"]}, {"id": "C4.14.58", "lines": ["They rose and left his presence for the fight;", "They set the army’s ranks throughout the night."]}, {"id": "C4.15.1", "lines": ["At cockcrow, when the dawn began to break,", "Tabiras sounded till the camp would shake."]}, {"id": "C4.15.2", "lines": ["An army marched from Gang across the plain,", "So dense no ant or gnat could pass the train."]}, {"id": "C4.15.3", "lines": ["Approaching Gulzaryun, that mighty force", "Made earth like Mount Bistoon beneath its course."]}, {"id": "C4.15.4", "lines": ["Three days and nights the army marched along;", "The world was filled with clamor, harsh and strong."]}, {"id": "C4.15.5", "lines": ["The column stretched out seven farsangs long;", "More men than ants or locusts filled the throng."]}, {"id": "C4.15.6", "lines": ["Upon the fourth day, ranks stood one by one;", "Heat rose up from the water toward the sun."]}, {"id": "C4.15.7", "lines": ["Afrasiab stood firm within the heart,", "With chiefs and sages ready for their part."]}, {"id": "C4.15.8", "lines": ["Jahan, son of Afrasiab, held the right,", "Whose spears would overshoot the sun in flight."]}, {"id": "C4.15.9", "lines": ["Towrag, a lion-hearted chief, held left,", "With seasoned riders, resolute and deft."]}, {"id": "C4.15.10", "lines": ["Revengeful Garsivaz stood in the rear,", "To guard the army from the sword and spear."]}, {"id": "C4.15.11", "lines": ["Full in the center on the other side,", "Khosrow held firm his line in mountain pride."]}, {"id": "C4.15.12", "lines": ["Tus, Nohzar’s son, stood in the Shah’s armed train;", "Gudarz, Manushan, Khuzan joined on the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.15.13", "lines": ["Gorgin, Milad’s son, Rohham, fierce in fight,", "Hajir and brave Shidush upheld his might."]}, {"id": "C4.15.14", "lines": ["Fariborz, Kavus’s son, stood on the right.", "One heart, one body, all prepared to smite."]}, {"id": "C4.15.15", "lines": ["Upon the left Manuchehr held control,", "A match for every fierce and warlike soul."]}, {"id": "C4.15.16", "lines": ["Giv, son of old Gudarz, guarded the way,", "And held the rear behind the main array."]}, {"id": "C4.15.17", "lines": ["From horseshoe nails, earth shone, an iron mine;", "Blood made the waters like red rubies shine."]}, {"id": "C4.15.18", "lines": ["The flints’ hearts split at the tabiras’ din,", "As black dust rose and hemmed the heavens in."]}, {"id": "C4.15.19", "lines": ["The air became an ebon robe of night;", "Tabiras made the distant stars take fright."]}, {"id": "C4.15.20", "lines": ["The earth heaved like black clouds beneath the train,", "As though it could not bear the armies’ strain."]}, {"id": "C4.15.21", "lines": ["The field was strewn with brains and hands and feet;", "No room remained beneath the horses’ beat."]}, {"id": "C4.15.22", "lines": ["The horses’ hooves crushed heads of those who died;", "Sparks from their shoes flew up on every side."]}, {"id": "C4.15.23", "lines": ["The wise withdrew; both armies felt the strain,", "Exhausted by their hate and bitter pain."]}, {"id": "C4.15.24", "lines": ["“If for one moment more our armies stay", "In pain and hatred, fighting in this way,"]}, {"id": "C4.15.25", "lines": ["No rider will survive this field of woe;", "The sky itself will fall on all below.”"]}, {"id": "C4.15.26", "lines": ["The axes cracked on helmets as they fell;", "Departing souls bade bodies their farewell."]}, {"id": "C4.15.27", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow beheld the battle’s press,", "The world seemed narrow in his deep distress."]}, {"id": "C4.15.28", "lines": ["Behind his ranks he prayed: “O God unknown", "To mortal mind, who rules the world alone, "]}, {"id": "C4.15.29", "lines": ["Have I not borne oppression’s crushing weight,", "And, iron-like, been furnace-tried by fate?"]}, {"id": "C4.15.30", "lines": ["I would not wish for victory in the fight,", "Nor press the Judge to vindicate my right.”"]}, {"id": "C4.15.31", "lines": ["He spoke and laid his face upon the ground;", "His bitter lamentations echoed round."]}, {"id": "C4.15.32", "lines": ["At once a furious wind from heaven rose;", "It broke the living branches with its blows."]}, {"id": "C4.15.33", "lines": ["The wind drove battle-dust in whirling spray", "At Turan’s king and all his armed array."]}, {"id": "C4.15.34", "lines": ["The men of Turan broke before the blast;", "Some lay wounded or dead, some stood bound fast."]}, {"id": "C4.15.35", "lines": ["If any man turned back and fled the fight,", "And Afrasiab learned about his flight,"]}, {"id": "C4.15.36", "lines": ["He took his khanjar, struck his head away;", "No shroud but dust and sand upon him lay."]}, {"id": "C4.15.37", "lines": ["Thus war endured until the daylight sank,", "And Turkish captives crowded rank on rank."]}, {"id": "C4.15.38", "lines": ["Night came and donned its musk-black robe from far,", "And barred the combat under every star."]}, {"id": "C4.15.39", "lines": ["Then both king and shah recalled their troops, amassed,", "As darkness over field and mountain passed."]}, {"id": "C4.15.40", "lines": ["From mountain slope down to the riverbank,", "Jowshans and helms and breastplates filled each rank."]}, {"id": "C4.15.41", "lines": ["They set the watchfires blazing round about,", "And sent the guards to every quarter out."]}, {"id": "C4.15.42", "lines": ["Afrasiab made ready for the fight,", "And waited for the sun to bring its light,"]}, {"id": "C4.15.43", "lines": ["To light the mountain’s face and make it gleam,", "And earth a Badakhshan gem in its beam."]}, {"id": "C4.15.44", "lines": ["But God had other purposes in view;", "No plan could stand against what He would do."]}, {"id": "C4.16.1", "lines": ["From Gostaham, Nohzar’s son, came by night", "A man with news of triumph in the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.16.2", "lines": ["He came to Kay Khosrow and cried: “Long live", "The Shah, to whom these joyful words I give."]}, {"id": "C4.16.3", "lines": ["We have returned in triumph from the plain,", "And struck the foe by night and crushed their train."]}, {"id": "C4.16.4", "lines": ["They kept no mounted outposts on the ground;", "Not one alert and watchful man was found."]}, {"id": "C4.16.5", "lines": ["Their chiefs awoke; our swords were drawn and bared;", "Our heavy gorzes, too, for war prepared."]}, {"id": "C4.16.6", "lines": ["But when the morning lifted up its hand,", "None stood save Qarakhan with his small band."]}, {"id": "C4.16.7", "lines": ["The field holds heads and bodies of the dead;", "The earth their couch, the dust their burial bed.”"]}, {"id": "C4.16.8", "lines": ["A cameleer brought news of Rostam too,", "At dawn, with tidings faithful, clear, and true."]}, {"id": "C4.16.9", "lines": ["“We learned the news while crossing desert sand,", "And hastened onward with our marching band."]}, {"id": "C4.16.10", "lines": ["Rostam made day and night alike his own;", "He would not leave the road, though all alone."]}, {"id": "C4.16.11", "lines": ["We reached the place as daylight filled the sky,", "And morning’s sun began to mount on high."]}, {"id": "C4.16.12", "lines": ["Then matchless Rostam swiftly strung his bow,", "And set his helmet, ready for the foe."]}, {"id": "C4.16.13", "lines": ["At his first shot, the Turks broke off the fight,", "And from the desert fled in headlong flight."]}, {"id": "C4.16.14", "lines": ["Now through Turan he marches, vengeance-bent;", "Fresh tidings to the Shah’s divan are sent.”"]}, {"id": "C4.16.15", "lines": ["A shout of joy rose loudly from the men;", "The Turkish monarch heard their cries again."]}, {"id": "C4.16.16", "lines": ["The Turks who served Khosrow were called to ride;", "They mounted, loyal to the monarch’s side."]}, {"id": "C4.16.17", "lines": ["A rider came in haste, with cries of pain,", "To Afrasiab and told him of the plain:"]}, {"id": "C4.16.18", "lines": ["“Qarakhan has escaped the ruined field,", "And comes with sixty men, his only shield."]}, {"id": "C4.16.19", "lines": ["A force is marching hard upon our land,", "And drains the rivers dry before its band.”"]}, {"id": "C4.16.20", "lines": ["The monarch spoke to counselors around:", "“A fearful struggle presses on our ground."]}, {"id": "C4.16.21", "lines": ["If Rostam takes possession of our seat,", "There will be no way left for our retreat."]}, {"id": "C4.16.22", "lines": ["He thinks that we have heard no word of him,", "And toil with Khosrow where the fields are grim."]}, {"id": "C4.16.23", "lines": ["So let us fall like fire on him by night,", "Let blood make earth a Jihun in the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.16.24", "lines": ["When Khosrow comes with two parts of his force,", "He finds but roofs and walls along his course.”"]}, {"id": "C4.16.25", "lines": ["The warriors and prudent counselors agreed;", "They judged this course the answer to their need."]}, {"id": "C4.16.26", "lines": ["The baggage stayed; like fire, his army sped", "Across the plain as Afrasiab led."]}, {"id": "C4.16.27", "lines": ["At once a scout returned across the plain,", "And told of dust that rose above the train."]}, {"id": "C4.16.28", "lines": ["He saw the Turkish camp abandoned, bare,", "And brought the shah the news with urgent care:"]}, {"id": "C4.16.29", "lines": ["“The plain is full of huts and tents displayed,", "But not one Turk within the camp has stayed.”"]}, {"id": "C4.16.30", "lines": ["Khosrow knew why the prince of Chin had gone", "At such an hour, and why he hastened on."]}, {"id": "C4.16.31", "lines": ["He knew that news of Rostam and the raid", "Of Gostaham had made his foe afraid."]}, {"id": "C4.16.32", "lines": ["Khosrow sent hastily to Rostam then:", "“Afrasiab has turned from us again."]}, {"id": "C4.16.33", "lines": ["He surely hastens now to fight with you;", "Array the line, be watchful, firm, and true."]}, {"id": "C4.16.34", "lines": ["Keep bow and quiver full, the foe at bay;", "Let no deceitful onset find its way.”"]}, {"id": "C4.16.35", "lines": ["The messenger was skilled enough to cross", "That pathless tract without delay or loss."]}, {"id": "C4.16.36", "lines": ["He came to Rostam, found him girded tight,", "The lion-hearted champion, armed to fight."]}, {"id": "C4.16.37", "lines": ["With gorzes shouldered, all the warriors stayed,", "And listened for commands to be obeyed."]}, {"id": "C4.16.38", "lines": ["He gave the king’s whole message to the chief;", "Its final words brought comfort and relief."]}, {"id": "C4.16.39", "lines": ["Meanwhile Khosrow held his station, nor stirred,", "But rested, free from care, and spoke no word."]}, {"id": "C4.16.40", "lines": ["He gave his men the Turkish tents and treasure,", "Enclosures, thrones, and crowns in royal measure."]}, {"id": "C4.16.41", "lines": ["He sought Iran’s dead warriors in the mud,", "And washed and shrouded bodies stained with blood."]}, {"id": "C4.16.42", "lines": ["He laid the dead in tombs with fitting rite,", "Borne from the blood and soil of that grim fight."]}, {"id": "C4.16.43", "lines": ["He packed the baggage, called the troops to horse,", "And swiftly followed Afrasiab’s course."]}, {"id": "C4.16.44", "lines": ["When Afrasiab drew near the city wall,", "He thought: “Now Rostam sleeps, and hears no call."]}, {"id": "C4.16.45", "lines": ["At night I strike his army where it lies,", "And make the dust above his army rise.”"]}, {"id": "C4.16.46", "lines": ["But in the gloom he saw the outposts set,", "And heard the chargers neigh through darkness yet."]}, {"id": "C4.16.47", "lines": ["He marveled at the watchful Rostam’s skill,", "And rode on, deep in thought and anxious still."]}, {"id": "C4.16.48", "lines": ["He knew his troops were beaten and distressed,", "And life itself was struggling in each breast."]}, {"id": "C4.16.49", "lines": ["Rostam stood armed before him on the road;", "Behind, the Shah and all his horsemen rode."]}, {"id": "C4.16.50", "lines": ["Afrasiab called the chiefs who gathered near,", "And spoke at length, compelled by grief and fear."]}, {"id": "C4.16.51", "lines": ["He asked: “What course is left? What do you say?”", "A chief replied and showed another way:"]}, {"id": "C4.16.52", "lines": ["“The treasures of the king at Gang remain;", "What profit comes from toiling on the plain?"]}, {"id": "C4.16.53", "lines": ["Gang measures eight farsangs in length, and four", "In breadth; within it lies your royal store."]}, {"id": "C4.16.54", "lines": ["Your women, children, treasure; all your own,", "Your army, crown, dominion, and your throne."]}, {"id": "C4.16.55", "lines": ["No eagle soars above that rampart height;", "No mind has dreamed a fortress of such might."]}, {"id": "C4.16.56", "lines": ["There food and palace, troops and wealth abide;", "Your foe must bear the hardships of the ride."]}, {"id": "C4.16.57", "lines": ["The land around is called Behesht in name,", "Where pleasure, peace, and happiness win fame."]}, {"id": "C4.16.58", "lines": ["On every side were springs and pools in sight,", "Each broad and long as any arrow’s flight."]}, {"id": "C4.16.59", "lines": ["From Hind and Rum, Mobadan have been brought,", "And here a fertile paradise was wrought."]}, {"id": "C4.16.60", "lines": ["From that high rampart, eyes can plainly view", "For twenty farsangs all who journey through."]}, {"id": "C4.16.61", "lines": ["Is warfare all you seek beneath the sky,", "Where every mortal camps awhile to die?”"]}, {"id": "C4.16.62", "lines": ["When Afrasiab heard that prudent word,", "He took new heart; his flagging spirit stirred."]}, {"id": "C4.16.63", "lines": ["He entered Gang-Behesht with arms and pride,", "With all his troops and war-gear at his side."]}, {"id": "C4.16.64", "lines": ["He toured the city, looking all around;", "No handbreadth of thorn-covered earth was found."]}, {"id": "C4.16.65", "lines": ["A palace stood, its head uplifted tall;", "The ruling king had built it as his hall."]}, {"id": "C4.16.66", "lines": ["He entered, held his court, and paid his men", "In dirhams and in dinars there and then."]}, {"id": "C4.16.67", "lines": ["He placed each quarter under chiefs to lead,", "And sent his troops to stations as decreed."]}, {"id": "C4.16.68", "lines": ["On foot, the watchmen held the ramparts’ height,", "Through all the hours of daylight and of night."]}, {"id": "C4.16.69", "lines": ["A chief and Mobad stood upon his right;", "He called the scribe before him there to write."]}, {"id": "C4.17.1", "lines": ["He wrote to Chin’s Faghfoor, and there they penned", "A hundred thousand blessings to their friend."]}, {"id": "C4.17.2", "lines": ["Thus said Afrasiab: “The turning sky", "Has granted only war as years went by."]}, {"id": "C4.17.3", "lines": ["Khosrow, whom once I should have killed outright,", "I cherished; now through him I suffer blight."]}, {"id": "C4.17.4", "lines": ["Let Chin’s Faghfoor come here; his love is known;", "My soul attests the care that he has shown."]}, {"id": "C4.17.5", "lines": ["But if he stays, let him send troops this way;", "Our vengeful foe draws near to strike and slay.”"]}, {"id": "C4.17.6", "lines": ["Sent by Afrasiab to describe his plight,", "The messenger reached Chin at dead of night."]}, {"id": "C4.17.7", "lines": ["The Faghfoor welcomed him with kindly grace,", "And gave him rest within a splendid place."]}, {"id": "C4.17.8", "lines": ["At Gang, Afrasiab remained distressed;", "He neither ate nor slept nor found his rest."]}, {"id": "C4.17.9", "lines": ["He set his catapults along the wall,", "And armed the towers to repel them all."]}, {"id": "C4.17.10", "lines": ["He bade magicians lift great stones on high,", "And on the ramparts set their huge supply."]}, {"id": "C4.17.11", "lines": ["He summoned Roman experts for the fight,", "And stationed troops along the rampart height."]}, {"id": "C4.17.12", "lines": ["The shrewd Jathaliq raised along the wall", "Ballistae, catapults that towered tall."]}, {"id": "C4.17.13", "lines": ["Crossbows and shields of rhinoceros hide,", "Helms, jowshans, filled the towers on each side."]}, {"id": "C4.17.14", "lines": ["He made his smiths toil hard; from steel they made", "Great claws, along the walls in strength arrayed."]}, {"id": "C4.17.15", "lines": ["They fixed the claws to lengthy spears, to haul", "Whoever dared to scale the city wall."]}, {"id": "C4.17.16", "lines": ["Those claws would seize a man who climbed too high;", "Or from the fortress he must turn and fly."]}, {"id": "C4.17.17", "lines": ["In all his dealings he was just and plain;", "He paid his troops and eased them of their pain."]}, {"id": "C4.17.18", "lines": ["He gave them swords, bargostvans, helms, and bows,", "With shields from Chin and shafts to meet their foes."]}, {"id": "C4.17.19", "lines": ["He shared these with his troops, with special care", "For fighting men, who gained the greater share."]}, {"id": "C4.17.20", "lines": ["His work complete, he sat in festive cheer", "With loyal fighting men assembled near."]}, {"id": "C4.17.21", "lines": ["A hundred harpists, fairy-faced, would throng", "His court each day with music and with song."]}, {"id": "C4.17.22", "lines": ["He feasted without pause within the hall,", "With wine and Turkish songs to gladden all."]}, {"id": "C4.17.23", "lines": ["Each day he scattered treasure, lost in play;", "He thought of neither next nor present day."]}, {"id": "C4.17.24", "lines": ["If what must be will be, let grief depart;", "Wear no dark frown, nor harbor it at heart."]}, {"id": "C4.17.25", "lines": ["Two weeks he lived released from every sorrow,", "But who can know who shall rejoice tomorrow?"]}, {"id": "C4.18.1", "lines": ["Within the third week, Khosrow came to Gang,", "Where flute and harp through Afrasiab’s halls rang."]}, {"id": "C4.18.2", "lines": ["He laughed and circled all the fortress round,", "Amazed how fortune turned upon that ground."]}, {"id": "C4.18.3", "lines": ["He said: “Who raised this fortress to its height", "Did not build such a place for harm and fight."]}, {"id": "C4.18.4", "lines": ["Yet Siavash’s murderer now has fled,", "Within these walls to hide his guilty head.”"]}, {"id": "C4.18.5", "lines": ["He marveled at that fair, enchanting place,", "A heaven stood, serene in all its grace."]}, {"id": "C4.18.6", "lines": ["He said to Rostam: “Mark with judging eyes", "The gifts God grants beneath these turning skies."]}, {"id": "C4.18.7", "lines": ["Yazdan of all gave triumph in the fight,", "And blessed our cause with fortune, farr, and might."]}, {"id": "C4.18.8", "lines": ["This wicked man, supreme in every ill,", "In rage, deceit, and folly hardens still,"]}, {"id": "C4.18.9", "lines": ["Has made this fortress refuge from our hand,", "And seeks security within this land."]}, {"id": "C4.18.10", "lines": ["The worst of villains, worse with passing age,", "He sinks still deeper into wrath and rage."]}, {"id": "C4.18.11", "lines": ["If I neglect to thank Him, let me keep", "The night’s three watches free from any sleep."]}, {"id": "C4.18.12", "lines": ["He grants success and power; His works on high", "Are sun and moon that shine across the sky.”"]}, {"id": "C4.18.13", "lines": ["A mountain guarded one side from attack;", "Its shelter held the fear of battle back."]}, {"id": "C4.18.14", "lines": ["Upon another side a river ran,", "A stream to gladden heart and soul of man."]}, {"id": "C4.18.15", "lines": ["They pitched the royal camp upon the plain;", "Around the fort stood chiefs of might and main."]}, {"id": "C4.18.16", "lines": ["Their troops spread seven farsangs far and wide;", "Earth groaned beneath Iran from side to side."]}, {"id": "C4.18.17", "lines": ["The right-hand camp was Rostam’s to command;", "He asked the Shah for troops to keep it manned."]}, {"id": "C4.18.18", "lines": ["The left was held by Fariborz that day,", "Kavus’s son, tabiras, horns at play."]}, {"id": "C4.18.19", "lines": ["Gudarz was given the third flank to lead;", "They brought his tents and pitched them as decreed."]}, {"id": "C4.18.20", "lines": ["Night fell, and shouts rose up through all the air.", "The world seethed with the tumult everywhere."]}, {"id": "C4.18.21", "lines": ["Earth’s heart was shaken, lifted from its place,", "As horn and pipe and karnay filled the space."]}, {"id": "C4.18.22", "lines": ["When sun had cleared the sky of rust and night,", "And split heaven’s sable stole with sudden light,"]}, {"id": "C4.18.23", "lines": ["The Shah bestrode his charger, black as jet,", "And rode around the ranks for battle set."]}, {"id": "C4.18.24", "lines": ["He spoke to mighty Rostam, kind and wise:", "“O chief whom all these gathered warriors prize,"]}, {"id": "C4.18.25", "lines": ["May Afrasiab never see the gleam", "Of this world’s light again, even in dream."]}, {"id": "C4.18.26", "lines": ["If he is taken living, or lies dead,", "I, slave of God, shall raise steel at his head."]}, {"id": "C4.18.27", "lines": ["I think that troops will come from every side,", "So vast his sway, so broad his royal pride."]}, {"id": "C4.18.28", "lines": ["They dread his wrath and therefore gather near,", "Not from free will or vengeance held sincere."]}, {"id": "C4.18.29", "lines": ["Before he summons forces, block each road,", "And bar the passage to his strong abode."]}, {"id": "C4.18.30", "lines": ["Let us bring down the ramparts, stone and clay,", "And cast them in the river, swept away."]}, {"id": "C4.18.31", "lines": ["Our troops have passed through hardship to release;", "Their days of toil in war have turned to peace."]}, {"id": "C4.18.32", "lines": ["When foes seek shelter in a fortress wall,", "Our troops need fear no vengeful clash at all."]}, {"id": "C4.18.33", "lines": ["His heart is broken in this fortress fair,", "Where soon but thorns will flourish everywhere."]}, {"id": "C4.18.34", "lines": ["Recall the words that Kay Kavus would say,", "And turn our souls toward justice and its way:"]}, {"id": "C4.18.35", "lines": ["‘Time cannot veil this feud, its fruit and bough,", "In dust and rust, in days to come or now."]}, {"id": "C4.18.36", "lines": ["From son to son this feud shall persevere,", "For full six thousand years, year after year."]}, {"id": "C4.18.37", "lines": ["Like some fresh-leaved tree, it draws new breath;", "In royal vengeance, hearts shall fear no death."]}, {"id": "C4.18.38", "lines": ["The father dies; his vengeance shall remain;", "The son shall guide the course of that same pain.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.18.39", "lines": ["The nobles praised their king before them all,", "And hailed his pure faith with a blessing’s call."]}, {"id": "C4.18.40", "lines": ["“May you avenge your father in this fight,", "And reign in joy and victory’s lasting light.”"]}, {"id": "C4.19.1", "lines": ["Next day, when sunlight crowned the hills with gold,", "And raised its lantern from the darkened fold,"]}, {"id": "C4.19.2", "lines": ["A mighty shout rose from the fortress wall,", "And made Khosrow attend its urgent call."]}, {"id": "C4.19.3", "lines": ["The portal of the hold was opened wide;", "The cause of all the clamor came outside."]}, {"id": "C4.19.4", "lines": ["For Jahan came with ten wise riders, sage", "In rank and counsel, seasoned by their age."]}, {"id": "C4.19.5", "lines": ["They reached the royal tent, and paused to wait", "Among the nobles at its entrance gate;"]}, {"id": "C4.19.6", "lines": ["The chamberlain then entered to report,", "“Jahan has come and waits before the court.”"]}, {"id": "C4.19.7", "lines": ["The Shah sat on his ivory throne that day,", "And set his shining crown in full array."]}, {"id": "C4.19.8", "lines": ["Then Manushan, the warrior, came to guide", "Wise Jahan to the king, and walked beside."]}, {"id": "C4.19.9", "lines": ["When Jahan came, the Shah’s eyes filled with tears;", "They veiled his face before the gathered peers."]}, {"id": "C4.19.10", "lines": ["Jahan stood marveling at what he saw,", "And took his princely cap off, filled with awe."]}, {"id": "C4.19.11", "lines": ["He drew up close beside the royal throne,", "And bowed and blessed the king in reverent tone."]}, {"id": "C4.19.12", "lines": ["“O famous king, may joy attend your days,", "As through this world you travel on your ways."]}, {"id": "C4.19.13", "lines": ["Be prosperous in our land; may all your foes", "Lose heart and sight beneath their destined woes."]}, {"id": "C4.19.14", "lines": ["Live happily, and worship God; we stand", "With open arms throughout our native land."]}, {"id": "C4.19.15", "lines": ["May your departure and return be blessed,", "And tales of all your goodness be expressed."]}, {"id": "C4.19.16", "lines": ["I bear a message from Turan’s great king;", "May you not chafe at any words I bring.”"]}, {"id": "C4.19.17", "lines": ["Khosrow commanded that a chair be placed", "Of gold, with which the prudent man was graced."]}, {"id": "C4.19.18", "lines": ["Jahan sat down and called his words to mind,", "The message that his father had assigned:"]}, {"id": "C4.19.19", "lines": ["“Afrasiab sits weeping in his pain,", "His lashes wet with tears that fall like rain."]}, {"id": "C4.19.20", "lines": ["First comes a greeting from a heart in grief,", "From him who rules Turan, its king and chief:"]}, {"id": "C4.19.21", "lines": ["‘Praise be to God, our Refuge and our stay,", "That one of ours has reached so bright a day."]}, {"id": "C4.19.22", "lines": ["He leads his armies, rules with royal might,", "And rides beyond the wheeling heavens’ height."]}, {"id": "C4.19.23", "lines": ["Your father’s line from Kay Qobad descends;", "Through Tur, your mother’s royal line extends."]}, {"id": "C4.19.24", "lines": ["Your head is higher than the kings who reign;", "Your name adorns the throne in Chin’s domain."]}, {"id": "C4.19.25", "lines": ["The eagles soaring swiftly through the cloud,", "And river nahangs, fierce of heart and proud,"]}, {"id": "C4.19.26", "lines": ["Stand guardians of your throne; beneath your star,", "The beasts rejoice and hail you from afar."]}, {"id": "C4.19.27", "lines": ["Earth’s crowned and mighty men of high renown", "Stand far beneath your fortune and your crown."]}, {"id": "C4.19.28", "lines": ["I marvel that the cursed Div of wrong", "Willed me no good but harm my whole life long."]}, {"id": "C4.19.29", "lines": ["Why did my heart go wandering from the right,", "From loving-kindness into murderous night,"]}, {"id": "C4.19.30", "lines": ["So that I slew Kay Kavus’s guiltless son,", "And Siavash’s blameless life was done?"]}, {"id": "C4.19.31", "lines": ["My heart is sore for that; apart I sit,", "With neither sleep nor food to comfort it."]}, {"id": "C4.19.32", "lines": ["The wicked Div, not I, performed the deed,", "And drove from me all fear of God and creed."]}, {"id": "C4.19.33", "lines": ["His hour had come; I was the pretext then;", "The tale lay in my hands to tell again."]}, {"id": "C4.19.34", "lines": ["You are both sage and shah and honor those", "Who walk in holiness where wisdom goes."]}, {"id": "C4.19.35", "lines": ["Now mark how many cities, once so great,", "With gardens, squares, and palaces of state,"]}, {"id": "C4.19.36", "lines": ["Have been destroyed through vengeance, blood, and blame,", "Our names the pretext for that spreading flame."]}, {"id": "C4.19.37", "lines": ["Mark too the warriors, massive in the fight,", "Like elephants and nahangs in their might."]}, {"id": "C4.19.38", "lines": ["Their bodies lie without their noble heads;", "The lions’ maws, their shrouds and final beds."]}, {"id": "C4.19.39", "lines": ["No settled dwelling stands upon the plain;", "Each city lies in ruins through this bane."]}, {"id": "C4.19.40", "lines": ["Till Judgment Day our names will signify", "But vengeance and the wounds of swords swung high."]}, {"id": "C4.19.41", "lines": ["The Maker of the world will be displeased,", "And at the last our hearts with grief be seized."]}, {"id": "C4.19.42", "lines": ["If you seek war, your heart will never cease", "From feuds, nor know one moment’s inward peace."]}, {"id": "C4.19.43", "lines": ["Observe time’s changes; take no other guide", "To teach your heart how fortune turns its tide."]}, {"id": "C4.19.44", "lines": ["We hold the fortress; you possess the plain,", "Your head all vengeance, heart all bloody pain."]}, {"id": "C4.19.45", "lines": ["Gang is my paradise, my cherished soil;", "Its fields bring forth the harvest of my toil."]}, {"id": "C4.19.46", "lines": ["Here are my hoards and troops, my royal gear:", "My seal and crown are safely gathered here."]}, {"id": "C4.19.47", "lines": ["Here are my crops, my food, and here the men", "Who stand prepared when battle comes again."]}, {"id": "C4.19.48", "lines": ["The summer warmth is gone; the roses’ bloom", "And tulips’ hues have passed before the gloom."]}, {"id": "C4.19.49", "lines": ["Cold days confront us when the soldiers’ hands", "Freeze on the spear-hafts where the army stands."]}, {"id": "C4.19.50", "lines": ["When clouds draw folds across the sky, our ground", "Grows hard as stone throughout the country round."]}, {"id": "C4.19.51", "lines": ["From every side troops at my call will run;", "You cannot strive against the moon and sun."]}, {"id": "C4.19.52", "lines": ["If you suppose that time will grant the fruit", "Of every battle to your sole pursuit,"]}, {"id": "C4.19.53", "lines": ["Heaven’s course may pass beyond the plans you own;", "Another reap the toil that you have sown."]}, {"id": "C4.19.54", "lines": ["If now you say: “I shall take Chin and all,", "And dash the sky on earth, and make them fall,"]}, {"id": "C4.19.55", "lines": ["And put these people to the sword, till I", "Take you a captive, powerless to fly,”"]}, {"id": "C4.19.56", "lines": ["Do not believe that this will surely be;", "Who wears men down is worn to some degree."]}, {"id": "C4.19.57", "lines": ["I spring from royal Zadeshm’s ancient line,", "And Jamshid’s seed and Fereydoon’s are mine."]}, {"id": "C4.19.58", "lines": ["My knowledge and my farr from heaven flow;", "Like Soroush’s my ways and form I show."]}, {"id": "C4.19.59", "lines": ["When destiny oppresses me, my heart", "Needs no instructor in the sovereign art."]}, {"id": "C4.19.60", "lines": ["When others sleep, if God decrees my flight,", "I vanish like a star before sunlight."]}, {"id": "C4.19.61", "lines": ["Across the waters of Kimak I go,", "And leave you troops and all the realm below."]}, {"id": "C4.19.62", "lines": ["Let Gangdezh be your resting-place; no more", "Will town or army see me as before."]}, {"id": "C4.19.63", "lines": ["But when the time for vengeance comes one day,", "Behold the troops that I shall then array."]}, {"id": "C4.19.64", "lines": ["I will return to claim revenge from you,", "And through the world my Faith I shall renew."]}, {"id": "C4.19.65", "lines": ["But if you cast your vengeance from your mind,", "And rule the realm with mercy, just and kind,"]}, {"id": "C4.19.66", "lines": ["For you I shall throw open all my hoard", "Of crowns, belts, gold, dinars, and jewels stored,"]}, {"id": "C4.19.67", "lines": ["Which Fereydoon to Iraj never gave;", "Take all; forget the vengeance that you crave."]}, {"id": "C4.19.68", "lines": ["If Chin and Machin please your heart, take all;", "Let your desire direct you at its call."]}, {"id": "C4.19.69", "lines": ["Khorasan, Makran lie before your feet;", "Whatever you may gain, to me is sweet."]}, {"id": "C4.19.70", "lines": ["Along the road that Kavus took before,", "I shall dispatch what troops you ask me for."]}, {"id": "C4.19.71", "lines": ["I shall enrich your troops, and set a throne", "Of gold, a crown, to hold them as your own."]}, {"id": "C4.19.72", "lines": ["I shall stand by you when the wars draw near,", "And hail you king where all the chiefs can hear."]}, {"id": "C4.19.73", "lines": ["Say what you wish; consider in your breast", "The outcome, then decide what course is best."]}, {"id": "C4.19.74", "lines": ["But if you still reject the terms I send,", "And choose with your forefather to contend,"]}, {"id": "C4.19.75", "lines": ["When Jahan leaves, set your ranks in array;", "I stand, a leopard, ready for the fray.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.20.1", "lines": ["The Shah smiled: “I have heard your message through,", "And now, brave warrior, I shall answer you."]}, {"id": "C4.20.2", "lines": ["The blessings that you bore I now retain;", "May crown and sovereignty with me remain."]}, {"id": "C4.20.3", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s greeting, offered through his tears,", "I too have heard before my gathered peers."]}, {"id": "C4.20.4", "lines": ["May I be happy, prosperous, and bright;", "May victory crown my fortune in the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.20.5", "lines": ["You thanked Yazdan that you could see your son", "A worshipper of God, his kingship won,"]}, {"id": "C4.20.6", "lines": ["More glorious than the kings who rule below,", "More favored, blessed with triumph over woe."]}, {"id": "C4.20.7", "lines": ["God has bestowed the gifts your words commend;", "May wisdom guard them to the very end."]}, {"id": "C4.20.8", "lines": ["Your words are fair whenever you would speak,", "Yet your heart is not pure, nor mild, nor meek."]}, {"id": "C4.20.9", "lines": ["You are no worshipper of God in deed,", "For wise men’s acts speak louder than their creed."]}, {"id": "C4.20.10", "lines": ["Great Fereydoon did not become a star,", "Nor rise from this dark earth to shine afar."]}, {"id": "C4.20.11", "lines": ["Yet you declare: ‘I shall ascend the sky,’", "And wash your face of shame with such a lie."]}, {"id": "C4.20.12", "lines": ["Your heart has made itself a sorcerer’s seat;", "Your jeweled words make falsehood sound complete."]}, {"id": "C4.20.13", "lines": ["A tongue of flattery, a heart of lies,", "Will never shine before the truly wise."]}, {"id": "C4.20.14", "lines": ["Call me no world-king, fatherless, alone;", "Of Siavash there now remains no bone."]}, {"id": "C4.20.15", "lines": ["Moreover, from her bower you dragged my mother,", "And shamed her in the sight of every other."]}, {"id": "C4.20.16", "lines": ["You burned with vengeance when I was unborn,", "And lit above my head the fire of scorn."]}, {"id": "C4.20.17", "lines": ["All those who stood within your court cried shame", "Upon your wayward soul and blackened name."]}, {"id": "C4.20.18", "lines": ["No king, no warrior, no man of might", "Had ever done such deeds in public sight:"]}, {"id": "C4.20.19", "lines": ["To drag a woman out before the crowd,", "And hand her to the killers, fierce and proud."]}, {"id": "C4.20.20", "lines": ["They whipped your daughter, merciless and wild,", "To make her womb give up its unborn child."]}, {"id": "C4.20.21", "lines": ["Wise Piran came and witnessed it in dread,", "A crime beyond all tales the world had spread."]}, {"id": "C4.20.22", "lines": ["Yet God ordained that I should rise on high,", "Exalted over men beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C4.20.23", "lines": ["He saved me from your mischief and your plot;", "Fate held a hidden purpose in my lot."]}, {"id": "C4.20.24", "lines": ["You took me, helpless, from my mother’s hold,", "And sent me, lions’ food, to shepherds’ fold."]}, {"id": "C4.20.25", "lines": ["A shepherd was my nurse, my keeper too;", "No rest by day, no sleep at night I knew."]}, {"id": "C4.20.26", "lines": ["So passed my days beneath the wheeling sun,", "Till Piran brought me back, my exile done."]}, {"id": "C4.20.27", "lines": ["He brought me to you, and you saw an heir", "Worthy of throne and royal crown to wear."]}, {"id": "C4.20.28", "lines": ["You would have struck me like my father dead,", "And left my naked corpse where it had bled,"]}, {"id": "C4.20.29", "lines": ["Had holy God not sealed my lips that day,", "And left me dazed before your court’s array."]}, {"id": "C4.20.30", "lines": ["You thought my mind lacked royal wit and skill,", "And so withheld the stroke designed to kill."]}, {"id": "C4.20.31", "lines": ["Remember Siavash, his truth and grace;", "What evil did you ever in him trace?"]}, {"id": "C4.20.32", "lines": ["He chose you as his refuge, as was right", "For one of noble name and princely might."]}, {"id": "C4.20.33", "lines": ["He left for you both throne and crown behind,", "And hailed you king, with pure and loyal mind."]}, {"id": "C4.20.34", "lines": ["He left his land to keep his promise true,", "Lest you should say he broke his word to you."]}, {"id": "C4.20.35", "lines": ["But when you saw his stature, strength, and grace,", "The royal light that shone upon his face,"]}, {"id": "C4.20.36", "lines": ["Your evil nature stirred; you struck him down,", "That holy man, that prince of noble crown."]}, {"id": "C4.20.37", "lines": ["You cut his head off like a sheep in shame,", "And kindled endless vengeance with his name."]}, {"id": "C4.20.38", "lines": ["From Manuchehr’s age to this present day,", "You have pursued an evil, faithless way."]}, {"id": "C4.20.39", "lines": ["Our troubles took their root from Tur’s dark hand,", "Who turned against his father’s own command."]}, {"id": "C4.20.40", "lines": ["So son from son has broken royal law,", "And kingly Faith has suffered wound and flaw."]}, {"id": "C4.20.41", "lines": ["You struck the head from King Nohzar in hate,", "A man of royal blood and noble state."]}, {"id": "C4.20.42", "lines": ["Your brother Aghriras, whose heart was good,", "Sought honorable fame, as good men should."]}, {"id": "C4.20.43", "lines": ["You killed him; evil has been all your way,", "Your nature led by Ahriman astray."]}, {"id": "C4.20.44", "lines": ["Your crimes, if any man should count them all,", "Would pass the revolutions of heaven’s wall."]}, {"id": "C4.20.45", "lines": ["You planted roots in Hell; do not declare", "That you were born of men, their blood to share."]}, {"id": "C4.20.46", "lines": ["You say: ‘The loathly Div inclined my heart", "To evil, turned my thoughts from virtue’s part.’"]}, {"id": "C4.20.47", "lines": ["So Zahhak spoke, and Jamshid spoke the same,", "When hope of goodness failed them in their shame."]}, {"id": "C4.20.48", "lines": ["They said: ‘Iblis misled our hearts from good,", "And barred our hands from doing what we should.’"]}, {"id": "C4.20.49", "lines": ["Bad nature and their teachers’ counsel made", "Their evil fortune stay; it would not fade."]}, {"id": "C4.20.50", "lines": ["For when a man turns wholly from the right,", "He chooses crookedness instead of light."]}, {"id": "C4.20.51", "lines": ["At Pashan, too, how many troops were slain,", "When Piran drenched the field with blood and pain."]}, {"id": "C4.20.52", "lines": ["The blood of Gudarz’s kin made earth a mire;", "You seek but harm and suffering, your desire."]}, {"id": "C4.20.53", "lines": ["And even now you came with countless men,", "With Turkish horsemen marshaled out again."]}, {"id": "C4.20.54", "lines": ["You led your force to Amvi for the fight,", "And sent Pashang before me in his might."]}, {"id": "C4.20.55", "lines": ["You sent him hoping he would strike me dead,", "And leave my realm beneath your armies’ tread."]}, {"id": "C4.20.56", "lines": ["But God, Yazdan of earth, stood at my side;", "Your fortune broke, your vaunting hope had died."]}, {"id": "C4.20.57", "lines": ["And now you say: ‘Your throne delights my heart;", "Your fortune is my joy in every part.’"]}, {"id": "C4.20.58", "lines": ["Consider: can I weigh your deeds and trust", "Such words as truth, not hollow words and dust?"]}, {"id": "C4.20.59", "lines": ["Until the Judgment Day, no word for you", "Except the sword that cleaves all falsehood through."]}, {"id": "C4.20.60", "lines": ["With troops and treasure, under moon and sun,", "I shall strive on till justice has been done."]}, {"id": "C4.20.61", "lines": ["Before Yazdan I stand; no other guide", "Shall lead me through this world or turn my stride."]}, {"id": "C4.20.62", "lines": ["Perhaps the world will then be cleansed of wrong;", "My gifts and justice make it new and strong."]}, {"id": "C4.20.63", "lines": ["I shall root out the wicked through the land,", "And strip their crowns away with my own hand."]}, {"id": "C4.20.64", "lines": ["Tell my grandfather all I have to say:", "Let no more pretexts stand in battle’s way.”"]}, {"id": "C4.20.65", "lines": ["He gave a crown with zabarjad alight,", "A golden torque, two earrings gleaming bright."]}, {"id": "C4.20.66", "lines": ["Then Jahan went before his father’s throne,", "And made each word of Khosrow’s answer known."]}, {"id": "C4.20.67", "lines": ["The answer roused Afrasiab to ire;", "His heart was pain, his thoughts impatient fire."]}, {"id": "C4.20.68", "lines": ["He gave his troops his hoards and dirhams bright,", "With gorzes, swords, and helms and crowns for fight."]}, {"id": "C4.21.1", "lines": ["All night, until the sun rose in the sky,", "And peaks, like white-backed elephants, shone high,"]}, {"id": "C4.21.2", "lines": ["Afrasiab continued to array his force;", "No Turkish rider slept or left his horse."]}, {"id": "C4.21.3", "lines": ["When all the kousts resounded out of Gang,", "And iron earth beneath black heaven rang,"]}, {"id": "C4.21.4", "lines": ["The Shah, Mobadan’s chief, at dawn’s first light", "Bestrode his charger, ready for the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.21.5", "lines": ["At dawn he circled all the guarded place,", "And marked each point where troops might force a space."]}, {"id": "C4.21.6", "lines": ["He ordered Rostam to assail one side,", "With mountain-like battalions in their pride."]}, {"id": "C4.21.7", "lines": ["Brave Gostaham, the son of Nohzar, came", "To seize another quarter, crowned with fame."]}, {"id": "C4.21.8", "lines": ["Wise old Gudarz commanded on the third,", "While Khosrow held the fourth by royal word."]}, {"id": "C4.21.9", "lines": ["Tabiras, elephants, and mounted men,", "He brought his well-equipped ranks forward then."]}, {"id": "C4.21.10", "lines": ["The Shah commanded all the troops to lend", "Their strength to dig a trench from end to end."]}, {"id": "C4.21.11", "lines": ["All men experienced in siegecraft’s art,", "Who had the strength for war, must play their part."]}, {"id": "C4.21.12", "lines": ["From Rum and Chin and Hind the veterans came,", "War-tested warriors of enduring fame."]}, {"id": "C4.21.13", "lines": ["With veteran chiefs they circled round the wall,", "To learn where best to breach or scale it all."]}, {"id": "C4.21.14", "lines": ["They dug a trench two spear-lengths deep; around", "Its circuit, troops were posted on the ground,"]}, {"id": "C4.21.15", "lines": ["Lest any sally in the night be made,", "And catch them off their guard in such a raid."]}, {"id": "C4.21.16", "lines": ["Two hundred arradas stood at each gate;", "Behind, two hundred manjaniqs lay in wait."]}, {"id": "C4.21.17", "lines": ["Two hundred bow-engines stood ranged below", "Each gate, to strike the heads the walls might show."]}, {"id": "C4.21.18", "lines": ["If heads rose from the wall, the engines cast", "Their stones like hail upon them, thick and fast."]}, {"id": "C4.21.19", "lines": ["Behind them Roman troops controlled each frame,", "And worked the engines with a practiced aim."]}, {"id": "C4.21.20", "lines": ["Two hundred elephants obeyed the call,", "And hauled the marble round the outer wall."]}, {"id": "C4.21.21", "lines": ["Beneath the ramparts they dug out the ground,", "Then set supporting pillars all around."]}, {"id": "C4.21.22", "lines": ["The walls, now undermined, were held in place", "By timber shores beneath their broken base."]}, {"id": "C4.21.23", "lines": ["On every timber naphtha then was spread;", "The walls stood firm, but ruin lay ahead."]}, {"id": "C4.21.24", "lines": ["The shafts and catapult stones beat the tower;", "The proud turned pale as saffron in that shower."]}, {"id": "C4.21.25", "lines": ["Below were wood and naphtha, fire and heat;", "Above, the heavy gorzes struck and beat."]}, {"id": "C4.21.26", "lines": ["On all four sides the siege was thus prepared;", "No quarter of the fortress would be spared."]}, {"id": "C4.21.27", "lines": ["When all was ready, Iran’s shah sought prayer,", "And turned to God in sorrow and in care."]}, {"id": "C4.21.28", "lines": ["He sought a place to bow apart from men,", "And told the World-Creator secrets then."]}, {"id": "C4.21.29", "lines": ["He writhed upon the ground, a snake in pain,", "And praised Yazdan, with vengeance in each vein:"]}, {"id": "C4.21.30", "lines": ["“To You belong success and sovereign might;", "In every strait we seek Your aiding light."]}, {"id": "C4.21.31", "lines": ["If You perceive my cause is just, I pray,", "Keep firm my foot; let none drive me away."]}, {"id": "C4.21.32", "lines": ["Cast down the sorcerers from throne and state,", "And give me joy, good fortune, conquering fate.”"]}, {"id": "C4.21.33", "lines": ["When he had prayed, he raised his head upright,", "And clad his breast in jowshan for the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.21.34", "lines": ["He fastened on his belt, sprang to his feet,", "And rushed like smoke where fighting armies meet."]}, {"id": "C4.21.35", "lines": ["He ordered troops to charge at every gate,", "And throw their strength against the fortress’ weight."]}, {"id": "C4.21.36", "lines": ["They set the naphtha-covered beams ablaze;", "Stones rained on them from overhead through haze."]}, {"id": "C4.21.37", "lines": ["The bow-engines resounded through the smoke;", "The bright sun darkened in its dusky cloak."]}, {"id": "C4.21.38", "lines": ["The engines thundered; dust obscured the view,", "Till earth was indigo and heaven blue."]}, {"id": "C4.21.39", "lines": ["Chiefs shouted; trumpeting elephants replied;", "Swords flashed, and massive gorzes shook each side."]}, {"id": "C4.21.40", "lines": ["The sun and moon themselves seemed locked in fight,", "Raining down swords and army dust from height."]}, {"id": "C4.21.41", "lines": ["The naphtha-covered woodwork caught and burned;", "By God’s command, the props to ashes turned."]}, {"id": "C4.21.42", "lines": ["The walls seemed lifting feet to leave their base,", "Then fell like mountains toppling from their place."]}, {"id": "C4.21.43", "lines": ["With them fell many Turkish warriors bold,", "Like drops of rain, down from the shattered hold."]}, {"id": "C4.21.44", "lines": ["Caught in the sudden snare, their lives were done;", "So ends the turmoil of each luckless one."]}, {"id": "C4.21.45", "lines": ["The Iranian war-cry rose in triumph clear;", "The Shah’s victorious army raised a cheer."]}, {"id": "C4.21.46", "lines": ["They turned toward the breach, the fighting throng;", "Fierce Rostam came and drove the charge along."]}, {"id": "C4.21.47", "lines": ["The city’s ramparts lay in wreckage, torn;", "To Afrasiab was that grim message borne."]}, {"id": "C4.21.48", "lines": ["Like dust he came, and raised his urgent cries,", "To summon Jahan, Garsivaz to rise."]}, {"id": "C4.21.49", "lines": ["“What use are walls?” he cried. “A fortress falls;", "The army’s scimitars must be its walls."]}, {"id": "C4.21.50", "lines": ["For country, children, treasure, kin, and life,", "Stand firm and arm yourselves to meet the strife."]}, {"id": "C4.21.51", "lines": ["Link skirts with one another; close the way,", "And let no foe along our passage stay.”"]}, {"id": "C4.21.52", "lines": ["Then mountain-like the Turkish ranks advanced,", "And toward the shattered breach their lances danced."]}, {"id": "C4.21.53", "lines": ["Like lions, both sides clashed in fierce attack;", "Each answered with a roar that thundered back."]}, {"id": "C4.21.54", "lines": ["In deep despair the Turkish riders shook", "Like willows, and all hope of home forsook."]}, {"id": "C4.21.55", "lines": ["The Shah bade Rostam bring up to the breach", "The spear-armed footmen stationed within reach."]}, {"id": "C4.21.56", "lines": ["He brought renowned and vengeful warriors too,", "To fill the breach and drive the battle through."]}, {"id": "C4.21.57", "lines": ["With quivers, swords, and arrows, axes bright,", "Behind the footmen, horsemen stood to fight."]}, {"id": "C4.21.58", "lines": ["Their battle-chief stood guard through each attack", "To shield them when fierce combat held them back."]}, {"id": "C4.21.59", "lines": ["Both horse and foot, in bands from every side,", "Came on like mountains in a moving tide."]}, {"id": "C4.21.60", "lines": ["Then warlike Rostam, lion in the fight,", "Led all his forces through the shattered height."]}, {"id": "C4.21.61", "lines": ["On foot, like dust, he charged amid the fray,", "And cast the sable standard down that day."]}, {"id": "C4.21.62", "lines": ["Upon the rampart rose the lion’s sign,", "The violet flag of Iran’s battle-line."]}, {"id": "C4.21.63", "lines": ["Iran’s great warriors hailed the Shah’s success,", "Their cries shook Gang in triumph and distress."]}, {"id": "C4.21.64", "lines": ["A multitude of Turkish troops were slain;", "The foe’s good fortune broke upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.21.65", "lines": ["Amid the crisis, Rostam seized and bound", "Two warriors, the mightiest to be found:"]}, {"id": "C4.21.66", "lines": ["Jahan and Garsivaz, both widely known", "As mighty pillars of the Turkish throne."]}, {"id": "C4.21.67", "lines": ["The king’s own son and brother, both forlorn,", "By troubled fortunes to despair were borne."]}, {"id": "C4.21.68", "lines": ["Iranian troops poured through the city gate,", "Their hearts consumed by old and vengeful hate."]}, {"id": "C4.21.69", "lines": ["They turned to plunder, killing as they went;", "From every quarter cries of grief were sent."]}, {"id": "C4.21.70", "lines": ["The women and the children shrank in dread,", "And raised their cries as they gave ground and fled."]}, {"id": "C4.21.71", "lines": ["How many women, children young and slight,", "Were crushed beneath the elephants outright!"]}, {"id": "C4.21.72", "lines": ["The townsfolk fled like wind before the foe;", "None thought of home, but only where to go."]}, {"id": "C4.21.73", "lines": ["The throne of Turan’s mighty men fell low;", "Their eyes wept blood in bitterness and woe."]}, {"id": "C4.21.74", "lines": ["Their women, children, wealth were taken, lost;", "Flesh pierced by shafts, their souls in anguish tossed."]}, {"id": "C4.22.1", "lines": ["Afrasiab went weeping to his hall,", "His heart brimmed full with grief at Gang’s great fall."]}, {"id": "C4.22.2", "lines": ["He climbed his palace wall, and there could see:", "Two-thirds lay dead; the rest had turned to flee."]}, {"id": "C4.22.3", "lines": ["The horsemen cried, the chieftains shouted loud,", "And elephant tabiras shook the crowd."]}, {"id": "C4.22.4", "lines": ["They drove the elephants across the throng;", "Backs struck the earth as beasts were urged along."]}, {"id": "C4.22.5", "lines": ["The city filled with smoke and cries of woe;", "He watched the fire and plunder spread below."]}, {"id": "C4.22.6", "lines": ["So does this passing world divide its share:", "One heart knows joy, another dark despair."]}, {"id": "C4.22.7", "lines": ["Afrasiab saw terror drawing near,", "And fortune’s overthrow lay stark and clear."]}, {"id": "C4.22.8", "lines": ["No Jahan, brother, land, or royal state;", "No crown, throne, belt remained to mark him great."]}, {"id": "C4.22.9", "lines": ["“How wantonly has heaven dealt this blow;", "My heart is seared with sorrow and with woe."]}, {"id": "C4.22.10", "lines": ["My eyes have seen such anguish here that I", "Now think it little to be slain and die.”"]}, {"id": "C4.22.11", "lines": ["He came down grieving from the palace tower,", "And bade farewell to throne and royal power:"]}, {"id": "C4.22.12", "lines": ["“When shall I look on you with joy, restore", "My ease, and live as I have lived before?”"]}, {"id": "C4.22.13", "lines": ["He left, half-dazed, and vanished out of sight;", "His wit and counsel flew like birds in flight."]}, {"id": "C4.22.14", "lines": ["Within the fortress palace he had made,", "A passage underneath the earth was laid."]}, {"id": "C4.22.15", "lines": ["No soldier in the army ever knew", "That such a hidden passage tunneled through."]}, {"id": "C4.22.16", "lines": ["He chose two hundred chiefs and took that way,", "Then vanished underground from light of day."]}, {"id": "C4.22.17", "lines": ["From there he took the road through desert ground;", "His country stood astonished all around."]}, {"id": "C4.22.18", "lines": ["None knew his road or where his steps had gone;", "So suddenly he vanished and passed on."]}, {"id": "C4.22.19", "lines": ["Khosrow approached the palace of his foe,", "And crushed his fortune with a conquering blow."]}, {"id": "C4.22.20", "lines": ["He took his seat upon the throne of gold,", "And sent out troops to search throughout the hold."]}, {"id": "C4.22.21", "lines": ["They searched in every quarter, street by street,", "But found no trace of him in his defeat."]}, {"id": "C4.22.22", "lines": ["He questioned Jahan, Garsivaz, to know", "What had become of Turan’s lord, his foe:"]}, {"id": "C4.22.23", "lines": ["“How did he leave? Where has he gone to stay?", "Where has he hidden since he slipped away?”"]}, {"id": "C4.22.24", "lines": ["They gave their answers; Khosrow heard them out,", "But nothing that they said resolved his doubt."]}, {"id": "C4.22.25", "lines": ["The Shah told Iran’s men: “A foe cast down", "And driven from his throne has lost his crown."]}, {"id": "C4.22.26", "lines": ["The world now grants him little joy or fame;", "To him, both life and death are much the same.”"]}, {"id": "C4.23.1", "lines": ["Khosrow chose Mobadan from armed array,", "Old chiefs well practiced in the world’s way."]}, {"id": "C4.23.2", "lines": ["He said: “Hail, men of justice, wise and true;", "May justice fill your hearts in all you do."]}, {"id": "C4.23.3", "lines": ["The doors of that ill-omened Turk’s great hall", "I place beneath your watch; protect them all."]}, {"id": "C4.23.4", "lines": ["Be diligent; let no intrusive ray", "Upon his royal palace find its way."]}, {"id": "C4.23.5", "lines": ["Nor let his women’s voices reach the street;", "Guard them from insult, outrage, and deceit.”"]}, {"id": "C4.23.6", "lines": ["He sent out keepers for the herds at large,", "The beasts around the fortress in their charge."]}, {"id": "C4.23.7", "lines": ["None of the fallen monarch’s kin were wronged;", "Such conduct to the royal throne belonged."]}, {"id": "C4.23.8", "lines": ["The troops looked on and murmured in dismay;", "Their bitter words spread through the whole array."]}, {"id": "C4.23.9", "lines": ["“He acts as though he were his father’s guest,", "And in his father’s house had come to rest."]}, {"id": "C4.23.10", "lines": ["He thinks not of his father, slain unjust,", "Beheaded, left to mingle with the dust."]}, {"id": "C4.23.11", "lines": ["He thinks not of his mother, dragged outside", "From throne and curtained bower, stripped of pride."]}, {"id": "C4.23.12", "lines": ["This harmless Shah was by a shepherd fed;", "On milk of sheep in childhood he was bred."]}, {"id": "C4.23.13", "lines": ["Why does he not, like sharp-clawed leopards, bring", "Destruction to the dwelling of that king?"]}, {"id": "C4.23.14", "lines": ["Why not cast down his palace, hall, and tower,", "And burn its walls beneath the flames’ fierce power?”"]}, {"id": "C4.23.15", "lines": ["The Shah was told the Iranians’ bitter word,", "And summoned nobles when the tale was heard."]}, {"id": "C4.23.16", "lines": ["He spoke at length: “Not all things call for ire;", "A foolish head is nothing to admire."]}, {"id": "C4.23.17", "lines": ["We must be just, though vengeance feeds the flame,", "And guard our name when we have won our aim."]}, {"id": "C4.23.18", "lines": ["Good deeds remain our lasting record here;", "Since life will pass, and none may linger near."]}, {"id": "C4.23.19", "lines": ["This turning sky can visit grief and pain", "On anyone within its wide domain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.23.20", "lines": ["He bade them bring the women to his side,", "In privacy, their veiled approach to hide."]}, {"id": "C4.23.21", "lines": ["The daughters of the kings, in veiled retreat,", "Had never left the bower for the street."]}, {"id": "C4.23.22", "lines": ["When all the Iranians learned the Shah’s command,", "They rushed toward the palace in a band."]}, {"id": "C4.23.23", "lines": ["They thought: “Khosrow will slay these women now.”", "Such was the thought that darkened every brow."]}, {"id": "C4.23.24", "lines": ["For plunder and for killing now they came;", "They wished the women misery and shame."]}, {"id": "C4.23.25", "lines": ["A mournful cry arose within the hall:", "“O just and wise Shah, listen to our call."]}, {"id": "C4.23.26", "lines": ["You know that we are powerless and low,", "And merit neither insult, scorn, nor woe.”"]}, {"id": "C4.23.27", "lines": ["The queenly matron came with daughters, bent", "With grief, and burdened by their deep lament."]}, {"id": "C4.23.28", "lines": ["A hundred servants walked before each maid;", "On every head a ruby crown was laid."]}, {"id": "C4.23.29", "lines": ["Their ornaments were like the shining sun;", "Their robes were gold where woven splendors run."]}, {"id": "C4.23.30", "lines": ["All carried golden goblets in their hands,", "And trembled at the king’s august commands."]}, {"id": "C4.23.31", "lines": ["The women shone with musk and gold and gem,", "With lowered heads, shame heavy over them."]}, {"id": "C4.23.32", "lines": ["One hand bore censers, one held cups; the flame", "Of aloes, ambergris, rose as they came."]}, {"id": "C4.23.33", "lines": ["It seemed that Saturn, from the heavens’ height,", "Had strewn the earth with stars of brilliant light."]}, {"id": "C4.23.34", "lines": ["The royal matron came before the throne,", "And blessed the Shah while making sorrow known."]}, {"id": "C4.23.35", "lines": ["Her daughters, delicately reared and fair,", "Raised all their supplications through the air."]}, {"id": "C4.23.36", "lines": ["Together all the women wept in pain;", "They lived beneath their bitter fortune’s reign."]}, {"id": "C4.23.37", "lines": ["Have pity on the one who knew delight,", "When days of need eclipse that former light."]}, {"id": "C4.23.38", "lines": ["In grief they praised him: “Khosrow, kind and true,", "O generous shah, our blessings rise to you."]}, {"id": "C4.23.39", "lines": ["How well if vengeance had not seared your heart,", "And enmity toward Turan played no part."]}, {"id": "C4.23.40", "lines": ["Then kings would send their messages to greet", "Your coming here for feasts and leisure sweet."]}, {"id": "C4.23.41", "lines": ["Our king and ruler, you would claim the throne", "Your grandfather had held here as his own."]}, {"id": "C4.23.42", "lines": ["Then Siavash would never have been slain;", "Yet sun and moon decreed that hour of pain."]}, {"id": "C4.23.43", "lines": ["Afrasiab’s vile deeds have sunk so deep", "He cannot dream of pardon in his sleep.”"]}, {"id": "C4.23.44", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab’s wife said, “My words were spurned;", "He would not heed me; from my counsel turned. "]}, {"id": "C4.23.45", "lines": ["I call my Maker witness from above:", "Blood-red tears streamed from eyes that wept with love."]}, {"id": "C4.23.46", "lines": ["My son Jahan, your kinsman, knows my pain;", "He too can witness, bound now in your chain."]}, {"id": "C4.23.47", "lines": ["Within this palace, heart and soul grew sore;", "For Siavash I grieved forevermore."]}, {"id": "C4.23.48", "lines": ["Afrasiab, your foe, heard sound advice;", "No counsel profited his heart of ice."]}, {"id": "C4.23.49", "lines": ["And so this day has brought his kingdom low;", "His sovereignty has met its overthrow."]}, {"id": "C4.23.50", "lines": ["His crown and girdle have become your spoil;", "His day is dark, his glory cast to soil."]}, {"id": "C4.23.51", "lines": ["His present life is worse than death to bear;", "Strange that his skin stays whole beneath despair."]}, {"id": "C4.23.52", "lines": ["Now look on us, all innocent of blame,", "And treat us as befits your royal name."]}, {"id": "C4.23.53", "lines": ["We all are kin to Khosrow on the throne;", "No name but his before our hearts is known."]}, {"id": "C4.23.54", "lines": ["Let him not, for Afrasiab’s evil deed,", "Act rashly against those of guiltless seed."]}, {"id": "C4.23.55", "lines": ["Do not bring bloodshed, outrage, scorn, and shame", "On those who have no portion in the blame."]}, {"id": "C4.23.56", "lines": ["It is unworthy of a king to shed", "The blood of guiltless heads or strike them dead."]}, {"id": "C4.23.57", "lines": ["Your counsel, Shah, would choose another way,", "For none in mortal skin is long to stay."]}, {"id": "C4.23.58", "lines": ["So act as God requires from royal hands,", "And fear the reckoning where judgment stands.”"]}, {"id": "C4.23.59", "lines": ["Khosrow was deeply moved when he had heard", "Those fallen women’s grief in every word."]}, {"id": "C4.23.60", "lines": ["The women’s ruby cheeks, in grief’s fierce glow,", "Shone bright as lamps amid their bitter woe."]}, {"id": "C4.23.61", "lines": ["The sages grieved; their thoughts began to roam,", "For each remembered child and wife at home."]}, {"id": "C4.23.62", "lines": ["The captains and the mighty chiefs gave praise,", "And blessed the Shah for his forbearing ways;"]}, {"id": "C4.23.63", "lines": ["For he would not pursue revenge or blame", "Against these women, in their Maker’s name."]}, {"id": "C4.23.64", "lines": ["Then prudent Khosrow spoke: “What we would rue", "If done to us, we must not do to you."]}, {"id": "C4.23.65", "lines": ["I will not bring such grief on any head,", "Though vengeful anger in my heart is fed."]}, {"id": "C4.23.66", "lines": ["When I reflect upon that monarch’s deed,", "I find no worthy pattern there to heed."]}, {"id": "C4.23.67", "lines": ["He wronged my noble mother; I shall spare", "All others from the wrong she had to bear.”"]}, {"id": "C4.23.68", "lines": ["He sent them home and said: “Abide in peace;", "No hand shall harm you; let your terrors cease."]}, {"id": "C4.23.69", "lines": ["Be safe and pay no heed to words of spite;", "Let no ill speaker fill your hearts with fright."]}, {"id": "C4.23.70", "lines": ["I bear no cruel purpose, no deceit;", "From now on, let your fears of me retreat."]}, {"id": "C4.23.71", "lines": ["No one desires to bring himself to grief;", "If someone does, his span of life is brief."]}, {"id": "C4.23.72", "lines": ["Live safely in your palace, sheltered, blessed;", "In God’s care let your souls and bodies rest.”"]}, {"id": "C4.24.1", "lines": ["Khosrow told Iran: “May the crown endure,", "The throne stand ever steadfast and secure."]}, {"id": "C4.24.2", "lines": ["The realm of Turan, captured by our hand,", "Shall now be yours, as dear as Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "C4.24.3", "lines": ["Put all revenge away from heart and mind,", "And rule the land with dealings just and kind."]}, {"id": "C4.24.4", "lines": ["The people fear us deeply on this day;", "The roads are mire where blood has stained the way."]}, {"id": "C4.24.5", "lines": ["I leave Turan’s great treasures yours to keep;", "No thanks from any warrior would I reap."]}, {"id": "C4.24.6", "lines": ["Be quick and constant in the work of good;", "Where winter reigned, let spring renew the wood."]}, {"id": "C4.24.7", "lines": ["My soldiers soon shall have their gold and store,", "Each filled with treasure, needing nothing more."]}, {"id": "C4.24.8", "lines": ["Let no blood of the guiltless now be shed;", "Let none cut off a blameless person’s head."]}, {"id": "C4.24.9", "lines": ["No manly deed is born of rage or spite;", "No hero strikes the helpless in the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.24.10", "lines": ["Turn from all women veiled in modest grace;", "Let none be harmed in market, court, or place."]}, {"id": "C4.24.11", "lines": ["Respect another’s wealth; for greed can make", "The closest friends turn foes for plunder’s sake."]}, {"id": "C4.24.12", "lines": ["The Maker hates all harm against the weak,", "And guiltless folk whom violent men seek."]}, {"id": "C4.24.13", "lines": ["Whoever would support my high design", "Must spare the realm that I now claim as mine."]}, {"id": "C4.24.14", "lines": ["For all call him unjust throughout the land", "Who leaves a thriving realm as barren sand.”"]}, {"id": "C4.24.15", "lines": ["The Shah commanded all his troops to claim", "Turan’s vast stores and treasures in his name,"]}, {"id": "C4.24.16", "lines": ["Except Afrasiab’s private hoard alone,", "Which none could seize or reckon as his own."]}, {"id": "C4.24.17", "lines": ["The rest he gave: the arms, the thrones, the crowns,", "The treasures gathered from the captured towns."]}, {"id": "C4.24.18", "lines": ["The scattered Turks came in, an endless flow;", "Their countless troops approached the Shah Khosrow."]}, {"id": "C4.24.19", "lines": ["He granted quarter, welcomed every man,", "And soon arranged all their trade by his plan."]}, {"id": "C4.24.20", "lines": ["He settled them with justice and command,", "And gave each chief his portion of the land."]}, {"id": "C4.24.21", "lines": ["To every noble he assigned a town;", "But rebels found no mercy from the crown."]}, {"id": "C4.24.22", "lines": ["Turan was overcome; from every side", "The chiefs proclaimed Khosrow their rightful guide."]}, {"id": "C4.24.23", "lines": ["From every quarter envoys came to show", "Their homage at the court of Shah Khosrow."]}, {"id": "C4.24.24", "lines": ["With gifts and letters from their lords they came;", "Each lord now served the Shah and owned his claim."]}, {"id": "C4.25.1", "lines": ["Khosrow then called a trusted scribe that day,", "And bade him write what triumph came their way."]}, {"id": "C4.25.2", "lines": ["He wrote to Kay Kavus of Turan’s force,", "And told the secrets bearing on his course."]}, {"id": "C4.25.3", "lines": ["First in the letter, praise to God was made,", "Who cleansed the earth where wickedness had stayed."]}, {"id": "C4.25.4", "lines": ["He woke the sleeping star and made it bright,", "And cast the sorcerers down from their height."]}, {"id": "C4.25.5", "lines": ["All knowledge, power, and justice come from Him;", "He cheers the wronged whose hopes were growing dim."]}, {"id": "C4.25.6", "lines": ["Then wrote: “Through Kay Kavus’s auspicious star,", "That noble king, whose wisdom reaches far,"]}, {"id": "C4.25.7", "lines": ["At Gang, Afrasiab’s fortress has been won;", "His fortune slept and sank; his course is run."]}, {"id": "C4.25.8", "lines": ["Upon one field, by heaven’s fixed decree,", "Full forty thousand chiefs had ceased to be."]}, {"id": "C4.25.9", "lines": ["Illustrious men with massive gorzes came,", "And fell at Gulzaryun in blood and flame."]}, {"id": "C4.25.10", "lines": ["Then came a mighty tempest, fierce and vast,", "And roots and branches yielded to its blast."]}, {"id": "C4.25.11", "lines": ["Into the water fell a force that day;", "The very troops who sought to bar our way."]}, {"id": "C4.25.12", "lines": ["Afrasiab fled the field, deprived of might,", "To Gang-Behesht, made ready for the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.25.13", "lines": ["And in the siege that followed on the plain,", "Full thirty thousand more of his were slain."]}, {"id": "C4.25.14", "lines": ["That man had ruled unjustly day by day;", "But wisdom and good fortune turned away."]}, {"id": "C4.25.15", "lines": ["The army spreads across the country wide;", "He vanished; none can tell where he may hide."]}, {"id": "C4.25.16", "lines": ["Hereafter I shall send the Shah each word,", "Whenever victory’s welcome news is heard.”"]}, {"id": "C4.25.17", "lines": ["Then he returned to revelry and wine,", "With moon-faced beauties radiant and fine."]}, {"id": "C4.25.18", "lines": ["So passed the time till spring adorned the earth,", "And hue and scent gave paradise its birth."]}, {"id": "C4.25.19", "lines": ["The plain was painted silk; the sky was bright,", "Like leopard’s back with many-colored light."]}, {"id": "C4.25.20", "lines": ["The Gur-e-Khar and deer roamed through the land;", "With hawk and cheetah he pursued the band."]}, {"id": "C4.25.21", "lines": ["With musky wine and beauties bright of face,", "He shared the pleasures of the royal chase."]}, {"id": "C4.25.22", "lines": ["The beasts, like gurs, were full of vital power;", "They roamed the open plain in spring’s bright hour."]}, {"id": "C4.25.23", "lines": ["Their necks were like male lions’, thick and strong;", "With heads and ears like deer’s, they moved along."]}, {"id": "C4.25.24", "lines": ["He sent his spies abroad on every side,", "To seek the tyrant, wherever he might hide."]}, {"id": "C4.26.1", "lines": ["Then tidings came from Chin, from Khutan’s land,", "That Afrasiab had joined the Faghfoor’s band."]}, {"id": "C4.26.2", "lines": ["“The Faghfoor takes his cause in hand again,", "And clamor fills the land with armed men."]}, {"id": "C4.26.3", "lines": ["From Chin to Gulzaryun the troops extend;", "The Khan commands them; to his rule they bend."]}, {"id": "C4.26.4", "lines": ["None knows what wealth, what slaves, what bridled steeds,", "The Faghfoor sends to serve Afrasiab’s needs."]}, {"id": "C4.26.5", "lines": ["They hail him king, and now within his hold", "Lies Piran’s treasure, heaped with minted gold."]}, {"id": "C4.26.6", "lines": ["Six thousand camel-loads of dinars lay", "Within that hoard he carried on his way."]}, {"id": "C4.26.7", "lines": ["As he conveyed them far from Khutan’s realm,", "He brought a force his foe to overwhelm.”"]}, {"id": "C4.26.8", "lines": ["When news reached those whom Khosrow once had spared,", "They rose against Iran, for war prepared."]}, {"id": "C4.26.9", "lines": ["They armed again for vengeful war, and tore", "Wide open wounds that mercy closed before."]}, {"id": "C4.26.10", "lines": ["When Afrasiab left Khutan behind,", "He brought a force beyond all count or mind."]}, {"id": "C4.26.11", "lines": ["The earth could scarcely bear their vast amount;", "No stars in heaven could their numbers count."]}, {"id": "C4.26.12", "lines": ["In wrath he led his army from that place,", "And turned once more toward Khosrow’s waiting face."]}, {"id": "C4.26.13", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard, he sent his scouts ahead,", "To watch the road on which the foe was led."]}, {"id": "C4.26.14", "lines": ["Gudarz, with Gorgin and Farhad, drew near;", "The Shah commanded them: “You shall stay here."]}, {"id": "C4.26.15", "lines": ["Remain here, just and prudent in command,", "Keep scouts on constant watch across the land.”"]}, {"id": "C4.26.16", "lines": ["He told Gudarz: “These troops are yours to shield;", "Be their protection when they take the field."]}, {"id": "C4.26.17", "lines": ["If any Turk should show, by word or sign,", "The least support for enemies of mine,"]}, {"id": "C4.26.18", "lines": ["Hang him alive upon the gibbet high,", "Head downward, with his feet raised to the sky."]}, {"id": "C4.26.19", "lines": ["But harm no guiltless person, weak or meek;", "Guard troops and treasure; keep the watch I seek.”"]}, {"id": "C4.26.20", "lines": ["Tabiras thundered from the royal tent,", "And gongs and karnays through the army went."]}, {"id": "C4.26.21", "lines": ["From Gang marched troops whose fury so inspired", "The sun that battle was all it desired."]}, {"id": "C4.26.22", "lines": ["Outside the town he formed his ranks for fight,", "And toward the mountains led his army’s might."]}, {"id": "C4.26.23", "lines": ["Two stages lay between each gathered side;", "Khosrow called all his chiefs to him and cried:"]}, {"id": "C4.26.24", "lines": ["“Tonight remain in station, calm and still;", "Yet let no sloth relax your watch or will.”"]}, {"id": "C4.26.25", "lines": ["He posted scouts around the plain that night,", "And circled round his troops till morning light."]}, {"id": "C4.26.26", "lines": ["One week he stayed preparing for the fight,", "With weapons sharpened, all his forces right."]}, {"id": "C4.26.27", "lines": ["Upon the eighth day scouts returned and told", "The enemy was near, with banners bold."]}, {"id": "C4.26.28", "lines": ["He set his army then in such array", "That sun and moon looked on at their display."]}, {"id": "C4.26.29", "lines": ["Afrasiab saw it, and, swift to heed,", "Arrayed his own to answer Khosrow’s deed."]}, {"id": "C4.26.30", "lines": ["He told his chiefs: “This sight delights my soul;", "Like feast and pleasure, battle makes me whole."]}, {"id": "C4.26.31", "lines": ["Upon my throne I slept in happy rest;", "Without a fight, impatience filled my breast."]}, {"id": "C4.26.32", "lines": ["Long have I wandered, fugitive and worn;", "My head and heart for war are now reborn."]}, {"id": "C4.26.33", "lines": ["Is this Khosrow’s good fortune drawing near,", "Or does a new age in my life start here?"]}, {"id": "C4.26.34", "lines": ["Yet I myself shall fight him on this ground,", "Though triumph, death, or sorrow may be found.”"]}, {"id": "C4.26.35", "lines": ["Then all the wise replied with one accord,", "Both kin and strangers gathered round their lord:"]}, {"id": "C4.26.36", "lines": ["“If you yourself must fight the foe today,", "Why bring this army and its vast array?"]}, {"id": "C4.26.37", "lines": ["All Chin and all Turan before you stand,", "Both kin and strangers, yours at your command."]}, {"id": "C4.26.38", "lines": ["We pledged our lives to you and now renew", "That pledge: our souls and bodies, ransom true."]}, {"id": "C4.26.39", "lines": ["Though hundreds or a hundred thousand die,", "Do not esteem your life less dear thereby."]}, {"id": "C4.26.40", "lines": ["We all desire your welfare and renown;", "We live sustained by glory from your crown.”"]}, {"id": "C4.26.41", "lines": ["Then from the army rose a mighty cry;", "The din of battle filled both earth and sky."]}, {"id": "C4.26.42", "lines": ["Through darkened dust the stars came into view;", "The yellow sun was turned to lapis-blue."]}, {"id": "C4.27.1", "lines": ["The Turkish king chose from his men that day", "Three veterans, and sent them on their way."]}, {"id": "C4.27.2", "lines": ["They bore this message: “Shah, your road was long;", "Far have you traveled with your mighty throng."]}, {"id": "C4.27.3", "lines": ["Between Iran and Gang, through hill and plain,", "A thousand farsangs bear the scars of pain."]}, {"id": "C4.27.4", "lines": ["Across the sand, through mountain and ravine,", "Like ants and locusts our long lines were seen."]}, {"id": "C4.27.5", "lines": ["From Gang and Chin to Iran’s guarded throne,", "The soil lies red with blood and splintered bone."]}, {"id": "C4.27.6", "lines": ["If holy God drew from the dust below", "The blood of slain men into one deep flow,"]}, {"id": "C4.27.7", "lines": ["It would become a Red Sea in its course,", "And drown both armies, foot and mounted force."]}, {"id": "C4.27.8", "lines": ["If you desire my treasure, troops, or crown,", "Turan’s broad realm, each fortress and each town,"]}, {"id": "C4.27.9", "lines": ["I will resign them all to you and go,", "But only steel shall lay my body low."]}, {"id": "C4.27.10", "lines": ["I am your mother’s father; we are kin;", "From Fereydoon both our royal lines begin."]}, {"id": "C4.27.11", "lines": ["If vengeance for your father clouds your view,", "And turns my waters dark and foul to you,"]}, {"id": "C4.27.12", "lines": ["The fault was Siavash’s, as I declare;", "His conduct broke my heart past all repair."]}, {"id": "C4.27.13", "lines": ["Besides, the stars that circle overhead", "Are both our shelter and our source of dread."]}, {"id": "C4.27.14", "lines": ["Now sixty years have passed across my life,", "Since first I rode with chiefs through war and strife."]}, {"id": "C4.27.15", "lines": ["My offspring, now you sit on Iran’s throne;", "In battle, lions’ claws become your own."]}, {"id": "C4.27.16", "lines": ["Choose distant ground, apart from those who pray,", "With those who worship God kept far away."]}, {"id": "C4.27.17", "lines": ["There we shall meet in combat, face to face,", "While both our armies hold a distant place."]}, {"id": "C4.27.18", "lines": ["If I should fall beneath your conquering hand,", "Your hook will draw the nahangs up to land."]}, {"id": "C4.27.19", "lines": ["But strive not with my kindred and allies;", "Restrain revenge; let wrath not blind your eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.27.20", "lines": ["And if you should be slain by me, I swear", "By God, your waiting army I shall spare."]}, {"id": "C4.27.21", "lines": ["Not one of them shall feel the battle’s pang,", "Nor see dark dust where blades and lances rang.”"]}, {"id": "C4.27.22", "lines": ["Khosrow, when he had heard the message through,", "Spoke to the son of Zal, great Rostam true."]}, {"id": "C4.27.23", "lines": ["“This scheming king, whose words deceive us all,", "Still looks from lofty heights and sees no fall."]}, {"id": "C4.27.24", "lines": ["He slipped our grasp by cunning of his own,", "And thinks he sits upon Turan’s high throne."]}, {"id": "C4.27.25", "lines": ["He speaks so much of battle that, it seems,", "He longs for Shideh’s grave within his dreams."]}, {"id": "C4.27.26", "lines": ["No shame would stain me if I faced this man,", "Descended from Fereydoon through Pashang’s clan.”"]}, {"id": "C4.27.27", "lines": ["But Rostam answered: “Shah, such fierce desire", "Would make you clasp within your lap a fire."]}, {"id": "C4.27.28", "lines": ["It shames a Shah to enter single fight,", "Though Pashang faced him, armed in all his might."]}, {"id": "C4.27.29", "lines": ["He says: ‘Fight not my men or kin or land,’", "And asks you thus to stay your army’s hand."]}, {"id": "C4.27.30", "lines": ["Your armies stretch from sea to distant sea;", "Their wishes with these terms do not agree."]}, {"id": "C4.27.31", "lines": ["If you make vows to him in God’s great name,", "Your heart must bear no guile beneath that claim."]}, {"id": "C4.27.32", "lines": ["Now order full assault without delay;", "Let no false counsel turn our strength away.”"]}, {"id": "C4.28.1", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard old Rostam’s counsel plain,", "He set a different course for his campaign:"]}, {"id": "C4.28.2", "lines": ["“So that malignant man would fight my rule,", "With treachery and fraud his every tool?"]}, {"id": "C4.28.3", "lines": ["To Siavash he swore a greater vow;", "His tongue deceived, his heart was false as now."]}, {"id": "C4.28.4", "lines": ["No chief wins glory through a traitor’s art.", "Say to Afrasiab: ‘False is your heart."]}, {"id": "C4.28.5", "lines": ["If battle is your sole desire today,", "There are brave men besides me for the fray."]}, {"id": "C4.28.6", "lines": ["There stand brave Giv and Rostam in the fight,", "Both eager to confront a tiger’s might."]}, {"id": "C4.28.7", "lines": ["And if kings challenge kings to hand-to-hand,", "Why bring the gathered army you command?"]}, {"id": "C4.28.8", "lines": ["I will not meet you now in single duel;", "You soon shall know a day both dark and cruel.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.28.9", "lines": ["The envoy turned and hastened on his way,", "And told his king what Khosrow had to say."]}, {"id": "C4.28.10", "lines": ["Afrasiab grieved; he had no wish, that hour,", "To hurry forth against the Shah’s great power."]}, {"id": "C4.28.11", "lines": ["The Shah brought forth his army to attack;", "The other army was forced to answer back."]}, {"id": "C4.28.12", "lines": ["One rushed, one lingered as the battle spread;", "The earth became a sea beneath their tread."]}, {"id": "C4.28.13", "lines": ["Like hail from clouds, the arrows fell and rang", "On helms and tiger-skins with ceaseless clang."]}, {"id": "C4.28.14", "lines": ["From dawn until the sun’s last ruby glow,", "Blood stained the ground the horses trod below."]}, {"id": "C4.28.15", "lines": ["When night drew close, the weary troops withdrew,", "As failing light concealed the field from view."]}, {"id": "C4.28.16", "lines": ["The king of kings returned to camp and tent,", "With royal pomp, and fortune where he went."]}, {"id": "C4.28.17", "lines": ["He said to Tus, “Afrasiab was slow", "To welcome open battle, blow for blow."]}, {"id": "C4.28.18", "lines": ["I think tonight he will attempt a raid,", "To ease the grief his brooding heart has made.”"]}, {"id": "C4.28.19", "lines": ["He had a trench dug on the road that faced", "Turan’s encampment, where its troops were placed."]}, {"id": "C4.28.20", "lines": ["He gave command: “Let not a fire appear;", "Let not the sound of bells reach any ear.”"]}, {"id": "C4.28.21", "lines": ["Then Khosrow chose brave horsemen from his side,", "And placed them under Rostam as their guide."]}, {"id": "C4.28.22", "lines": ["He chose another force from Iran’s line,", "All armed and ready for the Shah’s design."]}, {"id": "C4.28.23", "lines": ["He placed them under Tus, the army’s head,", "And sent them toward the hills with ordered tread."]}, {"id": "C4.28.24", "lines": ["The matchless Rostam took the level plain,", "While Tus moved toward the heights with all his train."]}, {"id": "C4.28.25", "lines": ["He ordered: “Take your forces far afield;", "To left and right divide them, spear and shield."]}, {"id": "C4.28.26", "lines": ["Take plain and meadow; let no scouts appear,", "Nor candles shine, nor lamps betray you here."]}, {"id": "C4.28.27", "lines": ["If through the dark Afrasiab should sweep,", "And strike our camp while men are lost in sleep,"]}, {"id": "C4.28.28", "lines": ["Our troops shall strike his rear and there engage;", "Then he shall be a hawk shut in a cage.”"]}, {"id": "C4.28.29", "lines": ["The trench in front, the army to its rear;", "The Shah stood there, his war-elephants near."]}, {"id": "C4.29.1", "lines": ["When night closed in, the Turkish leader stirred,", "And called his men to hear his urgent word."]}, {"id": "C4.29.2", "lines": ["He summoned veterans proven in the field,", "And spoke of wounds their former wars revealed."]}, {"id": "C4.29.3", "lines": ["“That cursed knave, so steeped in fraud and spite,", "Dares face his grandfather’s own troops in fight."]}, {"id": "C4.29.4", "lines": ["No doubt his weary army sleeps tonight,", "Spread wide across the plain and rocky height."]}, {"id": "C4.29.5", "lines": ["Now let misgiving leave each warrior’s breast,", "And strike before the dawn can break their rest."]}, {"id": "C4.29.6", "lines": ["If in their sleep we seize their camp this hour,", "We shall regain the throne with greater power."]}, {"id": "C4.29.7", "lines": ["Unless good fortune turns and grants us aid,", "Our strength is wind, our manhood but a shade.”"]}, {"id": "C4.29.8", "lines": ["They all agreed, then rose without delay,", "And armed themselves to strike before the day."]}, {"id": "C4.29.9", "lines": ["Afrasiab chose fifty thousand men,", "All veterans, fit for battle once again."]}, {"id": "C4.29.10", "lines": ["Before them went his spies, hard-eyed and gray,", "Seasoned by war and eager for the fray."]}, {"id": "C4.29.11", "lines": ["The foremost spy drew near Khosrow’s wide camp,", "And found no sentry, challenge, fire, or lamp."]}, {"id": "C4.29.12", "lines": ["All seemed at rest; no scouts were on the ground,", "No watchfires burned; no stir or breath was found."]}, {"id": "C4.29.13", "lines": ["No thought of Turan troubled any heart;", "The camp lay still in every visible part."]}, {"id": "C4.29.14", "lines": ["The spy returned: “No waking eyes are raised;", "No watch is set, no signal fire is blazed."]}, {"id": "C4.29.15", "lines": ["They all lie dead, or else have drunk their fill", "Throughout the day and now lie slack and still."]}, {"id": "C4.29.16", "lines": ["No outpost marks the limits of the ground;", "Only the thorn-bush lifts its head around.”"]}, {"id": "C4.29.17", "lines": ["Afrasiab heard and felt his courage rise,", "Then sent his ranks beneath the darkened skies."]}, {"id": "C4.29.18", "lines": ["He mounted with his chosen men and swept", "His warriors onward toward the land that slept."]}, {"id": "C4.29.19", "lines": ["They came like waters swelling in the night,", "Swift, silent, hidden from the watchers’ sight."]}, {"id": "C4.29.20", "lines": ["No karnay sounded, no war-shout was heard;", "No banner stirred, no rider spoke a word."]}, {"id": "C4.29.21", "lines": ["But near the royal tent, across the ground,", "The karnays then suddenly began to sound."]}, {"id": "C4.29.22", "lines": ["Saddle tabiras thundered through the black;", "The sable banner rose for the attack."]}, {"id": "C4.29.23", "lines": ["The foremost riders spurred their steeds and cried,", "And drove their horses toward the trench’s side."]}, {"id": "C4.29.24", "lines": ["But many riders plunged into the fosse,", "While others wheeled away in fear of loss."]}, {"id": "C4.29.25", "lines": ["Then Rostam thundered upward from the plain,", "And darkened heaven with his riders’ train."]}, {"id": "C4.29.26", "lines": ["Giv, Gudarz, Tus came from the other side;", "Ahead, tabiras, karnays thundered wide."]}, {"id": "C4.29.27", "lines": ["The Shah with Kaveh’s banner joined the fight;", "The air turned violet with the swords’ bright light."]}, {"id": "C4.29.28", "lines": ["The horses faltered and the riders reeled;", "“Take! Bind! Strike! Kill!” rang out across the field."]}, {"id": "C4.29.29", "lines": ["Of every hundred chiefs, ten lived to tell;", "The rest beneath an evil fortune fell."]}, {"id": "C4.29.30", "lines": ["When battle news reached Turan’s royal head,", "His heart was pierced as though his blood were shed."]}, {"id": "C4.29.31", "lines": ["His troops lamented at their monarch’s pain;", "They wept and burned to see their labor vain."]}, {"id": "C4.29.32", "lines": ["He said, “No sage can flee the heavens’ snare,", "Nor turn the wheel that governs mortal care."]}, {"id": "C4.29.33", "lines": ["But since the foe desires our lives, not gold,", "We still must strive, with hearts resolved and bold."]}, {"id": "C4.29.34", "lines": ["We either give our bodies to the dust,", "Or win the crown of Iraj, as we must.”"]}, {"id": "C4.29.35", "lines": ["At dawn, from both encampments shouts arose;", "The world filled up with karnays and with blows."]}, {"id": "C4.29.36", "lines": ["With darts and blades they marched in long array;", "Three farsangs stretched their ranks across the way."]}, {"id": "C4.29.37", "lines": ["The battlefield became a boundless tide;", "No sun or moon shone through on either side."]}, {"id": "C4.29.38", "lines": ["The armies surged in ranks that swelled and rose,", "Like waves beneath the driving wind that blows."]}, {"id": "C4.29.39", "lines": ["The valleys seemed with blood to overflow;", "The sun disappeared behind the dust below."]}, {"id": "C4.29.40", "lines": ["The face of heaven wore a pitch-black cloak;", "No warrior held back from sword or stroke."]}, {"id": "C4.29.41", "lines": ["Then rose a mighty blast with deafening sound,", "A storm beyond all memory swept the ground."]}, {"id": "C4.29.42", "lines": ["It lifted dust and drove it through the skies,", "Against the Turkish faces and their eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.29.43", "lines": ["It tore the helmets from the heads it passed;", "Afrasiab stood astounded by the blast;"]}, {"id": "C4.29.44", "lines": ["Across the field lay brains and blood outspread;", "The rocks, like jujubes, gleamed a bloody red."]}, {"id": "C4.29.45", "lines": ["The Turkish riders, in their days of ease,", "Had hunted leopards just as they might please."]}, {"id": "C4.29.46", "lines": ["Now none would fight the turning sky’s command,", "While dust rose thick across the battered land."]}, {"id": "C4.29.47", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw the wind and dust arise,", "And joy return before his warriors’ eyes,"]}, {"id": "C4.29.48", "lines": ["With Rostam, Giv, Gudarz, and Tus, the king", "Bade tabiras in the army’s center ring."]}, {"id": "C4.29.49", "lines": ["The army’s center raised the battle-cry;", "The Shah and Rostam flanked the army nearby."]}, {"id": "C4.29.50", "lines": ["The dust hung heavy like a storm-cloud’s veil,", "And shafts and sword-blades fell from it as hail."]}, {"id": "C4.29.51", "lines": ["On every side lay mountain-heaps of slain,", "With springs of blood that ran from mound to plain."]}, {"id": "C4.29.52", "lines": ["The air grew dark, deep indigo overhead;", "Below, a sea of blood engulfed the dead."]}, {"id": "C4.29.53", "lines": ["The sky wore eagle-feathers; shafts in flight;", "Afrasiab stared, bewildered by the sight."]}, {"id": "C4.29.54", "lines": ["The violet banner shone; he hid his own", "Within the center, where its black had flown."]}, {"id": "C4.29.55", "lines": ["He left his troops arrayed to face the foe,", "And fled with Turan’s chiefs from all that woe."]}, {"id": "C4.29.56", "lines": ["A thousand of his house went at his side,", "With picked men fit for battle, proved and tried."]}, {"id": "C4.29.57", "lines": ["He took the pathless plain and fled the strife,", "And saved through toil and flight his wretched life."]}, {"id": "C4.29.58", "lines": ["The Shah searched through the army for his kin,", "And stormed toward the center, deep within."]}, {"id": "C4.29.59", "lines": ["Although he spurred his charger in pursuit,", "His search for Turan’s king produced no fruit."]}, {"id": "C4.29.60", "lines": ["When Turan’s soldiers looked toward the core,", "And saw the sable flag was there no more,"]}, {"id": "C4.29.61", "lines": ["They dropped their arms and asked the Shah for grace;", "Khosrow received them with a generous face."]}, {"id": "C4.29.62", "lines": ["He placed them in a camp beyond the line,", "Then raised his golden throne with royal sign."]}, {"id": "C4.29.63", "lines": ["He decked the tents with Chin’s embroidered art,", "Then brought the wine and bade the music start."]}, {"id": "C4.29.64", "lines": ["He called the captains to the royal feast;", "Their joy rose high, and mourning slowly ceased."]}, {"id": "C4.29.65", "lines": ["He held a feast so joyous through the night,", "The dead seemed raised from dust to share delight."]}, {"id": "C4.29.66", "lines": ["He feasted till dawn’s bright hand left its mark,", "Its nails had scratched across the face of dark."]}, {"id": "C4.29.67", "lines": ["The Iranian monarch washed his head and frame,", "And sought a place to praise God’s holy name."]}, {"id": "C4.29.68", "lines": ["He sought a hidden place, withdrawn from sight,", "Where neither beast nor man could hear his rite."]}, {"id": "C4.29.69", "lines": ["From dawn until the moon, on ivory bright,", "Assumed its throne and wore its crown of light,"]}, {"id": "C4.29.70", "lines": ["He praised the Maker, glad of heart and voice,", "For fortune’s turn had made his soul rejoice."]}, {"id": "C4.29.71", "lines": ["Two rivers from his eyes ran down his face;", "He pressed his face to earth in that still place."]}, {"id": "C4.29.72", "lines": ["Then throne and crown the Shah once more regained;", "His heart was glad; his fortune still remained."]}, {"id": "C4.29.73", "lines": ["They sought Iran’s fallen across the plain,", "Both those still living and the warriors slain."]}, {"id": "C4.29.74", "lines": ["They bore Iran’s fallen from the field away,", "And left the enemy dead where they lay."]}, {"id": "C4.29.75", "lines": ["They raised up tombs across the battlefield,", "And in that earth their fallen dead were sealed."]}, {"id": "C4.29.76", "lines": ["The Shah shared out the spoils the field supplied,", "Among the troops who fought upon his side."]}, {"id": "C4.29.77", "lines": ["The Shah led forth his troops without delay,", "Then marched toward Gang-Behesht in armed array."]}, {"id": "C4.30.1", "lines": ["When word of Khosrow’s victory was heard", "In distant Chin and Machin, fear was stirred."]}, {"id": "C4.30.2", "lines": ["The Khan and Faghfoor writhed in anxious pain,", "Each fearing ruin for his mighty reign."]}, {"id": "C4.30.3", "lines": ["They both regretted all the aid once sent,", "And sought a remedy in deep lament."]}, {"id": "C4.30.4", "lines": ["The Faghfoor said: “No more will greatness gleam", "Before his eyes, not even in a dream."]}, {"id": "C4.30.5", "lines": ["And surely, we shall suffer loss and blame,", "For sending troops and treasure in his name."]}, {"id": "C4.30.6", "lines": ["We reap regret from all the aid we gave;", "This deed may wreck the cities we would save.”"]}, {"id": "C4.30.7", "lines": ["They readied gifts from Chin and Khutan’s store,", "And spent a treasure on the gifts they bore."]}, {"id": "C4.30.8", "lines": ["He called a faithful envoy to his side,", "And gave him all instructions as his guide."]}, {"id": "C4.30.9", "lines": ["From royal hoards he picked the choicest treasure:", "Gold coins, unpierced gems, and wealth beyond measure."]}, {"id": "C4.30.10", "lines": ["He sent the gifts in hope of pardon’s grace;", "The envoys took the road to Khosrow’s place."]}, {"id": "C4.30.11", "lines": ["Those mighty men of Chin made no delay,", "And reached Gang-Behesht on the seventh day."]}, {"id": "C4.30.12", "lines": ["The conqueror received them with respect,", "And seated each by rank, as was correct."]}, {"id": "C4.30.13", "lines": ["He took the gifts that they had brought with them,", "Rare treasures, purses, slaves, and every gem."]}, {"id": "C4.30.14", "lines": ["He told the envoy: “Say this when you go:", "Do not affront or bring our honor low."]}, {"id": "C4.30.15", "lines": ["Let Afrasiab never come by night,", "To you, when sleep has veiled your eyes from light.”"]}, {"id": "C4.30.16", "lines": ["The envoy, like the wind, his road retraced,", "And told the Faghfoor all that he had faced."]}, {"id": "C4.30.17", "lines": ["Once he had heard, he sent that night on wing", "A messenger to warn the fleeing king:"]}, {"id": "C4.30.18", "lines": ["“Avoid Khutan and Chin’s frontiers,” he said,", "“And mourn the evil path your footsteps tread."]}, {"id": "C4.30.19", "lines": ["All those who leave the road and go astray", "Meet tribulation waiting on the way.”"]}, {"id": "C4.31.1", "lines": ["When Afrasiab heard that warning sent,", "He grieved for former deeds in deep lament."]}, {"id": "C4.31.2", "lines": ["Across the pathless plain he took his flight,", "And cast off rank to save his life outright."]}, {"id": "C4.31.3", "lines": ["Since all his days were filled with grief and fear,", "He sped to Mount Ispuruz, drawing near."]}, {"id": "C4.31.4", "lines": ["His foes allowed no respite and no rest;", "He ate the game he found upon his quest."]}, {"id": "C4.31.5", "lines": ["From Chin he came to Zereh’s sea in pain,", "His loins rubbed raw by knots and travel’s strain."]}, {"id": "C4.31.6", "lines": ["When he had reached that deep and shoreless tide,", "With neither middle nor an ending spied,"]}, {"id": "C4.31.7", "lines": ["The sailor said: “O king, no passage lies", "Across this deep sea spread before your eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.31.8", "lines": ["I am now seventy-eight; through all my days,", "No ship has crossed these waters’ trackless ways.”"]}, {"id": "C4.31.9", "lines": ["Then mighty Afrasiab answered so:", "“Blessed is he whom waters overthrow."]}, {"id": "C4.31.10", "lines": ["If no foe’s sword can claim my dying breath,", "No foe shall seize me, even after death.”"]}, {"id": "C4.31.11", "lines": ["He ordered captains under his command", "To launch enough ships from the waiting strand."]}, {"id": "C4.31.12", "lines": ["They set their sails toward Gangdezh through the spray,", "And turned from good and ill upon their way."]}, {"id": "C4.31.13", "lines": ["Arriving there, he ate and slept in peace,", "And from war’s bitter fortunes found release."]}, {"id": "C4.31.14", "lines": ["“We shall be happy here,” he then declared,", "“And leave behind the grief that we have shared."]}, {"id": "C4.31.15", "lines": ["When heaven shall my darkened star restore,", "I shall recross the Zereh from this shore."]}, {"id": "C4.31.16", "lines": ["I shall avenge myself on every foe,", "And make my rule and royal customs glow.”"]}, {"id": "C4.31.17", "lines": ["When news of this to Kay Khosrow was passed,", "He learned what fresh device the old man cast."]}, {"id": "C4.31.18", "lines": ["He said to Rostam, “Now that man of wrath", "Has gained Gangdezh and found a seaward path."]}, {"id": "C4.31.19", "lines": ["He did the thing he claimed that he would do;", "His boast of heaven’s favor has proved true."]}, {"id": "C4.31.20", "lines": ["By ship he crossed the Sea of Zereh’s tide;", "The wind has swept our labors all aside."]}, {"id": "C4.31.21", "lines": ["My grandfather shall hear my khanjar’s word;", "This ancient feud shall never be deferred."]}, {"id": "C4.31.22", "lines": ["By God’s victorious strength I shall obtain", "Revenge for Siavash, unjustly slain."]}, {"id": "C4.31.23", "lines": ["Through Chin and Makran I shall spread my force,", "Then cross the Sea of Kimak on my course."]}, {"id": "C4.31.24", "lines": ["When Chin and great Machin obey my reign,", "I shall demand tribute from Makran’s domain."]}, {"id": "C4.31.25", "lines": ["If heaven favors us, our troops shall ride", "In ships across the Sea of Zereh’s tide."]}, {"id": "C4.31.26", "lines": ["Though long the task may prove, I yet may take", "That man of blood for Siavash’s sake."]}, {"id": "C4.31.27", "lines": ["You left your thriving homeland far behind,", "And bore the hardships fate to you assigned."]}, {"id": "C4.31.28", "lines": ["Yet better we should take this toil again", "Than yield the world in triumph to those men."]}, {"id": "C4.31.29", "lines": ["Our fame shall last until the dead arise,", "With foes in flight and victory as our prize.”"]}, {"id": "C4.31.30", "lines": ["The Pahlevans grew sorrowful and stern,", "With lips that sighed and brows that seemed to burn."]}, {"id": "C4.31.31", "lines": ["They said, “The sea is rough; with troops so vast,", "Six months upon the wind must first be passed."]}, {"id": "C4.31.32", "lines": ["Who knows what men will rise from waves alive?", "His flight brings trouble; who says we shall thrive?"]}, {"id": "C4.31.33", "lines": ["On land we fight; at sea our lives may lie", "Inside the nahangs as they circle by.”"]}, {"id": "C4.31.34", "lines": ["Each offered counsel; many words were said,", "And argument on argument was spread."]}, {"id": "C4.31.35", "lines": ["Then Rostam spoke: “O chiefs of wide renown,", "Who know the world and bear what weighs men down,"]}, {"id": "C4.31.36", "lines": ["Let not our former toil fall to the ground,", "And end in idle ease, with no fruit found."]}, {"id": "C4.31.37", "lines": ["And this victorious Shah, whose fortunes thrive,", "Still reaps the good his lucky stars contrive."]}, {"id": "C4.31.38", "lines": ["From Iran to the walls of Gang we came;", "At every step, fierce battle pressed its claim."]}, {"id": "C4.31.39", "lines": ["Success attends each venture he has tried;", "So born, so shall he pass with fortune’s tide.”"]}, {"id": "C4.31.40", "lines": ["The army heard what Rostam had to say,", "And framed a fresh reply without delay."]}, {"id": "C4.31.41", "lines": ["The chiefs, who understood, rose from their place,", "And armed themselves, prepared for war’s embrace."]}, {"id": "C4.31.42", "lines": ["“We all are servants of the Shah,” they cried,", "“And love him as we serve him at his side."]}, {"id": "C4.31.43", "lines": ["On land and sea, his word commands us all;", "We keep his covenant and heed his call.”"]}, {"id": "C4.32.1", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced and gave the chieftains grace,", "And seated each according to his place."]}, {"id": "C4.32.2", "lines": ["He opened Afrasiab’s treasured stores,", "And let no thought of kinship bar their doors."]}, {"id": "C4.32.3", "lines": ["They loaded sturdy camels for the road", "With coins and jeweled brocade for their load."]}, {"id": "C4.32.4", "lines": ["Ten thousand oxen drew the wagons’ freight,", "The gear that warriors bear, a massive weight."]}, {"id": "C4.32.5", "lines": ["Two thousand camels bore the silver hoard,", "With loads of coin the treasury had stored."]}, {"id": "C4.32.6", "lines": ["When night had come, he gave command aloud:", "“Bring forth the women, hidden from the crowd,"]}, {"id": "C4.32.7", "lines": ["All Afrasiab’s daughters, kin, and train,", "And all dependents who with them remain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.32.8", "lines": ["They brought them forth in litters through the gate,", "From palace to the square of royal state."]}, {"id": "C4.32.9", "lines": ["They brought a hundred chiefs of famous name,", "Renowned in war and crowned with former fame."]}, {"id": "C4.32.10", "lines": ["They brought all Afrasiab’s kin in grief,", "Their eyes with tears that know no sure relief."]}, {"id": "C4.32.11", "lines": ["Then Jahan, Garsivaz, whom men revered,", "In litters, and with fettered feet, appeared."]}, {"id": "C4.32.12", "lines": ["They brought a thousand hostages in tow,", "The pledges Turk and Chin had to bestow."]}, {"id": "C4.32.13", "lines": ["Ten thousand men of Iran formed the band;", "He put them under Giv’s protecting hand."]}, {"id": "C4.32.14", "lines": ["“O man whose steps are fortunate,” he said,", "“Go now to great Kay Kavus in my stead.”"]}, {"id": "C4.32.15", "lines": ["He next commanded that a scribe appear,", "With paper and fine silk from Chin brought near."]}, {"id": "C4.32.16", "lines": ["With rosewater and musk and ink in place,", "He bade him write of Afrasiab’s case."]}, {"id": "C4.32.17", "lines": ["The scribe, when musk and ink had wet his pen,", "Praised first the righteous Judge of mortal men:"]}, {"id": "C4.32.18", "lines": ["“He who sustains and brings all things to birth", "Has fashioned time and formed the spreading earth."]}, {"id": "C4.32.19", "lines": ["The ant and elephant alike He made,", "The Nile’s broad waters and each withered blade."]}, {"id": "C4.32.20", "lines": ["All things are one before His boundless might;", "Being and non-being are His by right."]}, {"id": "C4.32.21", "lines": ["The sky will not turn harshly over one", "Whom He has fed with mercy like the sun."]}, {"id": "C4.32.22", "lines": ["His blessings rest upon the king of earth,", "Who gives to peace and ordered justice birth."]}, {"id": "C4.32.23", "lines": ["I reached the fort where Afrasiab would keep", "His royal dwelling, made for rest and sleep."]}, {"id": "C4.32.24", "lines": ["Within it lay his throne and crown of state,", "His treasure, troops, and all that made him great."]}, {"id": "C4.32.25", "lines": ["For forty days we fought without respite;", "The world pressed hard upon that man of spite."]}, {"id": "C4.32.26", "lines": ["He slipped beyond our grasp and fled away;", "His heart was wounded as he left the fray."]}, {"id": "C4.32.27", "lines": ["But Giv will tell the Shah in every part,", "What passed upon the field and in the heart."]}, {"id": "C4.32.28", "lines": ["When you lift up your voice before God’s throne,", "Pray without cease for me, your flesh and bone."]}, {"id": "C4.32.29", "lines": ["Through Chin and through Machin I now shall lead", "The army, then to Makran’s bounds proceed."]}, {"id": "C4.32.30", "lines": ["And afterward, with holy God as guide,", "I shall cross over Zereh’s spreading tide.”"]}, {"id": "C4.32.31", "lines": ["Then Giv departed from the royal sight,", "With many troops and warriors armed for fight."]}, {"id": "C4.32.32", "lines": ["The journey passed with speed from stage to stage;", "He neared Kavus and bore the royal page."]}, {"id": "C4.32.33", "lines": ["When Kay Kavus heard Giv’s auspicious name,", "That Pahlevan of celebrated fame,"]}, {"id": "C4.32.34", "lines": ["He sent out many troops to meet his guest,", "And nobles too rode out at his behest."]}, {"id": "C4.32.35", "lines": ["When gallant Giv approached that shah’s domain,", "That warrior-band seemed lions on a plain."]}, {"id": "C4.32.36", "lines": ["Giv entered, kissed the ground before the throne,", "And stood where royal majesty was shown."]}, {"id": "C4.32.37", "lines": ["Kavus, on seeing him, rose up and smiled,", "And stroked his face with welcome calm and mild."]}, {"id": "C4.32.38", "lines": ["He asked of Khosrow and his troops, to learn", "Of sun and moon that in the heavens burn."]}, {"id": "C4.32.39", "lines": ["Brave Giv told all that he had seen and known,", "Of Khosrow’s warriors and his mighty throne."]}, {"id": "C4.32.40", "lines": ["His words renewed the old shah to the core;", "Then Giv gave him the letter that he bore."]}, {"id": "C4.32.41", "lines": ["The scribe received the scroll and read it clear;", "The whole assembly marveled at its cheer."]}, {"id": "C4.32.42", "lines": ["They all rejoiced, their hearts made glad that day;", "Their eyes grew wet as sorrow passed away."]}, {"id": "C4.32.43", "lines": ["They gave the poor their wealth and cursed his name,", "The wicked man whose deeds had earned their blame."]}, {"id": "C4.32.44", "lines": ["Then Shah Kavus in reverence stepped down,", "And laid aside the Kayanian crown."]}, {"id": "C4.32.45", "lines": ["He lay prostrate upon the dusty ground,", "And praised pure God, with reverence profound."]}, {"id": "C4.32.46", "lines": ["Then to his dwelling-place the monarch went,", "And round the fort prepared for merriment."]}, {"id": "C4.32.47", "lines": ["Giv told of all that he had seen and heard,", "Repeating Khosrow’s message, word for word."]}, {"id": "C4.32.48", "lines": ["He summoned minstrels and Iran’s brave men,", "And brought the wine to share among them then."]}, {"id": "C4.32.49", "lines": ["They spoke of many things and heard replies,", "Until the darkness gathered in the skies."]}, {"id": "C4.32.50", "lines": ["His friends went home with candles burning bright;", "The shah retired, his heart filled with delight."]}, {"id": "C4.32.51", "lines": ["The sun thrust shining spears across the sphere;", "Night turned its rein and fled as they drew near."]}, {"id": "C4.32.52", "lines": ["Tabiras sounded from the royal court;", "The warriors came for audience and report."]}, {"id": "C4.32.53", "lines": ["He called for Giv, whose deeds were widely known,", "And placed him on the famed and royal throne."]}, {"id": "C4.32.54", "lines": ["He ordered all the spoils brought forth, displayed,", "With famous warriors, strong and proud, arrayed."]}, {"id": "C4.32.55", "lines": ["The guiltless women came, their faces veiled,", "Who in their sheltered chambers had been assailed."]}, {"id": "C4.32.56", "lines": ["Bound Jahan came, with Garsivaz bound too,", "Who brought down Siavash through schemes untrue."]}, {"id": "C4.32.57", "lines": ["When Kavus looked on Garsivaz the base,", "He cursed him justly, to his very face."]}, {"id": "C4.32.58", "lines": ["Kavus beheld with eyes that filled with tears", "The daughters of Afrasiab and their fears."]}, {"id": "C4.32.59", "lines": ["He made the royal bower their dwelling-place,", "With handmaids set to serve them in that space."]}, {"id": "C4.32.60", "lines": ["For captives and for hostages he planned", "A fitting place for each at his command."]}, {"id": "C4.32.61", "lines": ["Some went with guards, and some in fetters stayed;", "They left the throne as each command was made."]}, {"id": "C4.32.62", "lines": ["All spoils of every kind, both gems and gold,", "Were gathered, all the treasure they could hold."]}, {"id": "C4.32.63", "lines": ["He gave them to the worthy, that their praise", "Might bless the Shah of Iran all their days."]}, {"id": "C4.32.64", "lines": ["The other captives chiefs received to guard;", "From his own palace all of them were barred."]}, {"id": "C4.32.65", "lines": ["They readied Jahan’s lodging and supplied", "His food, with servants and a trusted guide."]}, {"id": "C4.32.66", "lines": ["A darkened chamber in the fortress lay,", "Near to the charnel-house, from joy away."]}, {"id": "C4.32.67", "lines": ["To Garsivaz that place became his share;", "Such turns the changing world makes mortals bear."]}, {"id": "C4.32.68", "lines": ["Blessed is the king whose hands are open wide,", "Whose heart remains devout through fortune’s tide."]}, {"id": "C4.32.69", "lines": ["He knows this passing world will strip him clean,", "And at a fool’s door he is never seen."]}, {"id": "C4.32.70", "lines": ["When reason dwindles, envy takes its place;", "A doctor sees a madman in that case."]}, {"id": "C4.32.71", "lines": ["When Shah Kavus had seen his edicts done,", "He cleared the hall of strangers, every one."]}, {"id": "C4.32.72", "lines": ["The scribe took paper, ready now to write,", "And made his pen-tip like a diamond bright."]}, {"id": "C4.32.73", "lines": ["They wrote a letter out to every land,", "To famous men and chiefs on every hand:"]}, {"id": "C4.32.74", "lines": ["“Turan and Chin now know the Shah’s embrace;", "The lamb and leopard share one watering place.”"]}, {"id": "C4.32.75", "lines": ["He gave his people silver coins and gold,", "And to the poor great sums of it were doled."]}, {"id": "C4.32.76", "lines": ["For two full weeks before the royal door,", "The crowds for largess blocked the palace floor."]}, {"id": "C4.32.77", "lines": ["The third week Kay Kavus reclined in hall,", "At ease in royal splendor over all."]}, {"id": "C4.32.78", "lines": ["The pipes and singers raised so sweet a sound,", "The heart saluted wine-cups passed around."]}, {"id": "C4.32.79", "lines": ["For one full week within the king’s abode,", "Red wine rose up in waves and freely flowed."]}, {"id": "C4.32.80", "lines": ["At New Moon, robes of honor were prepared", "For Giv, with gold and turquoise freely shared."]}, {"id": "C4.32.81", "lines": ["Gold platters, turquoise cups, and belts of gold,", "With golden horse gear, rich gifts to behold."]}, {"id": "C4.32.82", "lines": ["Attendants, collars, earrings shining bright,", "With bracelets, jeweled crowns to catch the light."]}, {"id": "C4.32.83", "lines": ["Throne-cloths and carpets, colors rich and rare,", "With scents and fragrant powders, precious ware."]}, {"id": "C4.32.84", "lines": ["They summoned Giv, whose deeds were widely known,", "And seated him upon a golden throne."]}, {"id": "C4.32.85", "lines": ["They brought the robes of honor to that place;", "Against the throne Giv humbly pressed his face."]}, {"id": "C4.33.1", "lines": ["A scribe with paper, musk, and perfumes near,", "Approached Kavus and wrote his answer clear:"]}, {"id": "C4.33.2", "lines": ["“I am rejoiced and fully pleased to see", "The fortune God has now bestowed on me."]}, {"id": "C4.33.3", "lines": ["My son, victorious, now has clearly shown", "His worth to wear the crown and hold the throne."]}, {"id": "C4.33.4", "lines": ["That evil man, by all the world reviled,", "Whose wars and plunder left the world defiled,"]}, {"id": "C4.33.5", "lines": ["Through you now roams, a fugitive in shame;", "In secret only do men speak his name."]}, {"id": "C4.33.6", "lines": ["A lifelong shedder of men’s blood, he sought", "To stir up strife with every scheme he wrought."]}, {"id": "C4.33.7", "lines": ["He cut crowned Nohzar’s neck and brought him low,", "The heir of kings who ruled long years ago."]}, {"id": "C4.33.8", "lines": ["A brother-killer and a regicide,", "Malicious, vile, with wickedness his guide."]}, {"id": "C4.33.9", "lines": ["In Turan, Makran, or by Chin’s wide sea,", "Allow that man no place to wander free."]}, {"id": "C4.33.10", "lines": ["Perhaps the world may breathe when he is gone,", "And wake from evil as the dawn comes on."]}, {"id": "C4.33.11", "lines": ["Cleanse earth of all the pain the wicked breed,", "Of foolish speech and every foolish deed."]}, {"id": "C4.33.12", "lines": ["Be joyful in the Maker’s justice then,", "And build the world anew for mortal men."]}, {"id": "C4.33.13", "lines": ["If I shall see you come back glad and whole,", "While grief shall fill our foes in heart and soul,"]}, {"id": "C4.33.14", "lines": ["Then I shall stand before my God in awe;", "From Him alone both hope and fear I draw."]}, {"id": "C4.33.15", "lines": ["May you be glad, victorious, and strong;", "May justice fill your heart your whole life long."]}, {"id": "C4.33.16", "lines": ["May God, who made the world, direct your way;", "Upon the throne may you forever stay.”"]}, {"id": "C4.33.17", "lines": ["They sealed the letter with the royal seal,", "And Giv departed with obedient zeal."]}, {"id": "C4.33.18", "lines": ["He did not loiter on the road; he pressed", "Toward Gang-Behesht, and would not stop to rest."]}, {"id": "C4.33.19", "lines": ["He blessed the Shah and handed him the scroll,", "Then spoke the message Kavus gave him, whole."]}, {"id": "C4.33.20", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced at every word he heard,", "And called for song and wine, his heart bestirred."]}, {"id": "C4.33.21", "lines": ["Three days he feasted, glad in victory’s name;", "The fourth, when dawn rekindled heaven’s flame,"]}, {"id": "C4.33.22", "lines": ["He gave the troops their helms, jowshans, and gear,", "And made his grandfather’s whole message clear."]}, {"id": "C4.33.23", "lines": ["He left with Gostaham, brave Nohzar’s son,", "A noble force to guard what had been won."]}, {"id": "C4.33.24", "lines": ["Then Khosrow left fair Gang-Behesht; his course", "Lay on toward Chin; he claimed the world by force."]}, {"id": "C4.33.25", "lines": ["He did not cease his labors with the light;", "With scouts by day, he posted guards by night."]}, {"id": "C4.33.26", "lines": ["So on he went; his tears and sorrow grew", "Until his father’s city came in view."]}, {"id": "C4.33.27", "lines": ["He walked Siavash’s garden and surveyed", "The place where once the killer’s bowl was laid."]}, {"id": "C4.33.28", "lines": ["From there he turned and went back to his throne,", "And spoke to God in secret, in low tone."]}, {"id": "C4.33.29", "lines": ["“If God, the righteous Judge, will guide me through,", "And show the course that I must now pursue,"]}, {"id": "C4.33.30", "lines": ["I shall pour Afrasiab’s blood instead,", "Like water, here where Siavash once bled.”"]}, {"id": "C4.34.1", "lines": ["From his own troops, the Shah chose men of skill,", "Who spoke and listened well to serve his will."]}, {"id": "C4.34.2", "lines": ["To Chin’s great Khan and Faghfoor envoys went;", "To Makran’s ruler others too were sent."]}, {"id": "C4.34.3", "lines": ["They bore this charge: “Be just, and now obey;", "Repent your evil deeds without delay."]}, {"id": "C4.34.4", "lines": ["Send food to feed the army I command;", "You must encounter us within your land."]}, {"id": "C4.34.5", "lines": ["But he who turns aside from what I say,", "Or from this undertaking stays away,"]}, {"id": "C4.34.6", "lines": ["Must ready troops for battle in the field,", "If he rejects the peace my terms would yield.”"]}, {"id": "C4.34.7", "lines": ["The envoys went through every province wide,", "Wherever chiefs of fame were known to reside."]}, {"id": "C4.34.8", "lines": ["The Khan and Faghfoor felt their sorrow grow;", "The other rulers shared their bitter woe."]}, {"id": "C4.34.9", "lines": ["They spoke warm words to each man they would greet,", "Their voices gentle and their language sweet."]}, {"id": "C4.34.10", "lines": ["They said, “We all are servants of the throne;", "We cross the earth when his command is known."]}, {"id": "C4.34.11", "lines": ["We shall survey the passes and their state,", "To see how much repair the roads await."]}, {"id": "C4.34.12", "lines": ["We shall rebuild and stock each ruined place,", "And aid your march with diligence and grace.”"]}, {"id": "C4.34.13", "lines": ["The wise among them said, “If he passes by", "And leaves us safe beneath the turning sky,"]}, {"id": "C4.34.14", "lines": ["The poor shall have abundant gifts to share,", "And food and welcome gifts we shall prepare.”"]}, {"id": "C4.34.15", "lines": ["They gave the envoys gifts, a lavish load;", "Back to the court in joy the envoys rode."]}, {"id": "C4.34.16", "lines": ["But when the envoy entered Makran’s land,", "He found a heart that would resist command."]}, {"id": "C4.34.17", "lines": ["Before the throne he gave the written word,", "And spoke the message as he first had heard."]}, {"id": "C4.34.18", "lines": ["The king reviled the envoy, heaping scorn;", "The gathered court was left in grief, forlorn."]}, {"id": "C4.34.19", "lines": ["He answered, “Tell the Shah: ‘Do not dictate", "Before you see the people at our gate."]}, {"id": "C4.34.20", "lines": ["The age lies subject to my throne’s great height;", "My royal fortune fills the world with light."]}, {"id": "C4.34.21", "lines": ["When morning’s brilliant sun begins to rise,", "It first beholds our kingdom with its eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.34.22", "lines": ["I too have wisdom, wealth, and strength of hand,", "With greatness, manhood, power, and command."]}, {"id": "C4.34.23", "lines": ["To ask for passage is no wrongful thing;", "On earth each living creature is a king."]}, {"id": "C4.34.24", "lines": ["If you would pass, I will not bar the way,", "Pass without troops, and do no harm, I say."]}, {"id": "C4.34.25", "lines": ["But if your lines should enter through my gate,", "You have no share within my sovereign state."]}, {"id": "C4.34.26", "lines": ["I will not let you cross Makran’s frontier,", "Nor set your foot upon our marches here."]}, {"id": "C4.34.27", "lines": ["Nor shall I let your triumph long endure,", "Though stars should make your victory seem sure.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.34.28", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard the answer they conveyed,", "He moved the army from the place it stayed."]}, {"id": "C4.34.29", "lines": ["He marched to Khutan’s city with his train,", "The Shah and chiefs who shared his long campaign."]}, {"id": "C4.34.30", "lines": ["The Khan and Faghfoor came to meet the king,", "Their blessings and apologies to bring."]}, {"id": "C4.34.31", "lines": ["With chiefs they met him on the royal way,", "Three stages short of Chin in bright array."]}, {"id": "C4.34.32", "lines": ["The road was cleared and leveled like a hand;", "Both vale and plain seemed dwellings through the land."]}, {"id": "C4.34.33", "lines": ["With food and clothes the road was well supplied,", "With feast adornments, carpets spread beside."]}, {"id": "C4.34.34", "lines": ["And when the troops approached a city’s gate,", "Each road and byway they would decorate."]}, {"id": "C4.34.35", "lines": ["They hung rich brocade on the walls around,", "And showered saffron, dirhams, to the ground."]}, {"id": "C4.34.36", "lines": ["The Faghfoor, now at ease before the king,", "Went first, the Shah into his halls to bring."]}, {"id": "C4.34.37", "lines": ["He said, “We serve the monarch’s high command,", "If we are worthy servants in his land."]}, {"id": "C4.34.38", "lines": ["Your fortune made the world both rich and bright;", "Your friends’ hearts now are filled with pure delight."]}, {"id": "C4.34.39", "lines": ["Though these halls scarcely merit your abode,", "Yet surely they are no worse than the road.”"]}, {"id": "C4.34.40", "lines": ["Illustrious Khosrow entered at his side,", "And took the famous throne in royal pride."]}, {"id": "C4.34.41", "lines": ["As gifts, the Faghfoor had his treasure brought:", "A hundred thousand dinars, in Chin wrought."]}, {"id": "C4.34.42", "lines": ["He stood before the Shah, with chiefs beside,", "Wise border lords from provinces spread wide."]}, {"id": "C4.34.43", "lines": ["Three months in Chin the Shah stayed, holding court,", "With Iran’s chiefs, famed men of great report."]}, {"id": "C4.34.44", "lines": ["The Faghfoor waited on him day by day,", "And brought fresh gifts with every dawn’s first ray."]}, {"id": "C4.34.45", "lines": ["The fourth month Khosrow rode to Makran’s land;", "Rostam stayed back, apart from his king’s band."]}, {"id": "C4.35.1", "lines": ["Khosrow departed; when Makran drew near,", "He chose a seasoned envoy, wise and clear."]}, {"id": "C4.35.2", "lines": ["He sent him to the king with this command:", "“May wisdom walk with kings in every land."]}, {"id": "C4.35.3", "lines": ["Consider what far realms we journeyed through;", "Not drunk, nor lost in dreams, we came to you."]}, {"id": "C4.35.4", "lines": ["My crown and fortune make the whole world bright;", "All chieftains bow beneath my throne’s great height."]}, {"id": "C4.35.5", "lines": ["Prepare the army’s food along the way,", "And fit my lodging for a king to stay."]}, {"id": "C4.35.6", "lines": ["When troops lack food, they suffer hunger’s blight;", "No man can hold such deprivation right."]}, {"id": "C4.35.7", "lines": ["They seize men’s goods when I fail to provide", "For every soldier marching at my side."]}, {"id": "C4.35.8", "lines": ["Without their fodder, they will fight and hem", "Their foes within a world too small for them."]}, {"id": "C4.35.9", "lines": ["But if you will not heed the words I spread,", "Through crowds of slain your reckless feet shall tread."]}, {"id": "C4.35.10", "lines": ["You will ruin Makran from end to end", "If you, in vengeance, with the lions contend.”"]}, {"id": "C4.35.11", "lines": ["The envoy spoke; the king refused to heed", "His message or the justice it would plead."]}, {"id": "C4.35.12", "lines": ["His foolish head grew heated at the word;", "His mind grew dark, by boiling anger stirred."]}, {"id": "C4.35.13", "lines": ["He gathered all his scattered troops to fight,", "And on the plain arrayed his army’s might."]}, {"id": "C4.35.14", "lines": ["He told the envoy, “Turn about and go;", "Tell that mistrustful shah what he should know:"]}, {"id": "C4.35.15", "lines": ["‘The turns of this dark age have brought you fame,", "And joy, and made the world shine with your name."]}, {"id": "C4.35.16", "lines": ["Yet when you come, you shall behold our might,", "And learn what warriors are when armed for fight.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.35.17", "lines": ["When Khosrow’s envoy left the monarch’s hall,", "Makran was filled with clamor, camp, and call."]}, {"id": "C4.35.18", "lines": ["From mount to mount, through borderland and plain,", "All Tiz and Makran swarmed with war’s great train."]}, {"id": "C4.35.19", "lines": ["He brought two hundred elephants to fight;", "No space on earth seemed empty at the sight."]}, {"id": "C4.35.20", "lines": ["At chargers’ neighs and all the soldiers’ cry,", "The moon strayed from its pathway in the sky."]}, {"id": "C4.35.21", "lines": ["The scouts approached the Shah: “The land is black", "With dust from Makran’s troops along its track."]}, {"id": "C4.35.22", "lines": ["The land swarms with elephants, row on row,", "And flags; from two full farsangs off they show.”"]}, {"id": "C4.35.23", "lines": ["The monarch bade his army form in line,", "With swords and gorzes lifted bright to shine."]}, {"id": "C4.35.24", "lines": ["From Makran then a scout came to the plain,", "And circled all night round the Iranian train."]}, {"id": "C4.35.25", "lines": ["Upon Iran’s side Tukhar kept the guard,", "For whom the thought of battle was not hard."]}, {"id": "C4.35.26", "lines": ["They met like elephant and lion, grim;", "Then Tukhar raised his blade and struck at him."]}, {"id": "C4.35.27", "lines": ["His falchion cleft the hostile scout in two,", "And dread through Makran’s kingly spirit flew."]}, {"id": "C4.35.28", "lines": ["The armies formed their ranks; the dust clouds curled", "Across the sky and veiled it from the world."]}, {"id": "C4.35.29", "lines": ["They moved toward one another, mountain-high,", "And closed while war-cries shook the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "C4.35.30", "lines": ["Then Tus, the leader, issued from the core,", "While karnay and the koust filled earth with roar."]}, {"id": "C4.35.31", "lines": ["Before him Kaveh’s flag rose broad and bright;", "Behind, gold-booted warriors marched to fight."]}, {"id": "C4.35.32", "lines": ["The air was full of arrows; all around,", "A sea of pitch seemed spread across the ground."]}, {"id": "C4.35.33", "lines": ["The king of Makran, wounded in the fray,", "Died in the center where his army lay."]}, {"id": "C4.35.34", "lines": ["One asked, “Shall we cut off his royal head?”", "The Shah said, “Never shame the kingly dead."]}, {"id": "C4.35.35", "lines": ["Who cuts off royal heads unless he be", "A villain sprung from Ahriman’s dark tree?"]}, {"id": "C4.35.36", "lines": ["Do not lay bare his body; let him lie", "In wounded jowshan, as he came to die."]}, {"id": "C4.35.37", "lines": ["Prepare a tomb; bring musk for his last bed,", "And sprinkle rosewater upon the dead."]}, {"id": "C4.35.38", "lines": ["With Chin’s brocade conceal his face from sight;", "Such is the passing of the men of might.”"]}, {"id": "C4.35.39", "lines": ["Of that army, ten thousand men were slain,", "Brave mounted men and swordsmen on the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.35.40", "lines": ["Of prisoners, fifty-seven score were bound;", "The living mourned the ruin all around."]}, {"id": "C4.35.41", "lines": ["The Iranians carried off the camp and spoil,", "The elephants, the throne, the fruits of toil."]}, {"id": "C4.35.42", "lines": ["The warriors turned to plunder far and wide,", "And ravaged Makran in their conquering pride."]}, {"id": "C4.35.43", "lines": ["Iran’s great nobles gathered wealth that day,", "And bore the crowns and thrones in pride away."]}, {"id": "C4.35.44", "lines": ["The women’s wail rose up from town and field;", "With bitter cries the land its grief revealed."]}, {"id": "C4.35.45", "lines": ["They set the city gates ablaze with fire,", "And hurled the heavens earthward in their ire."]}, {"id": "C4.35.46", "lines": ["Their arrows wounded many, and they caught", "The women and the children, all distraught."]}, {"id": "C4.35.47", "lines": ["When the Shah’s anger cooled and wrath grew still,", "He called the army back by royal will."]}, {"id": "C4.35.48", "lines": ["He ordered shrewd Ashkash to end the raid,", "The pillage, strife, and harrying they had made."]}, {"id": "C4.35.49", "lines": ["He said, “Let no man harm the helpless few,", "Or treat the wretched harshly as their due.”"]}, {"id": "C4.35.50", "lines": ["Then all the upright people of that state", "Came pleading to the Shah before his gate."]}, {"id": "C4.35.51", "lines": ["They said, “We are helpless, innocent, and worn,", "By tyrants long oppressed, by hardship torn."]}, {"id": "C4.35.52", "lines": ["It would be worthy of the Shah’s high grace", "To pardon us, if guilt is not our case.”"]}, {"id": "C4.35.53", "lines": ["The Shah heard out their plea, and gave the word", "To have his order through the army heard."]}, {"id": "C4.35.54", "lines": ["A cry rang from the Shah’s pavilion: “Hear,", "You Pahlevans, and let my will be clear."]}, {"id": "C4.35.55", "lines": ["Should cries of wrong and pillage rise again,", "Or strife and tumult sound among my men:"]}, {"id": "C4.35.56", "lines": ["I shall cut in two the cruel and base", "Who act with no fear of God’s watching face.”"]}, {"id": "C4.35.57", "lines": ["The Shah remained one year in Makran’s land,", "And summoned boatmen there from every strand."]}, {"id": "C4.35.58", "lines": ["Spring came; the earth was green from side to side,", "And tulips clothed the mountains far and wide."]}, {"id": "C4.35.59", "lines": ["When steeds could pasture, hunters take the field,", "And gardens bloomed with fruit and flowers revealed,"]}, {"id": "C4.35.60", "lines": ["He bade Ashkash to take the force and stand", "A while in Makran, holding firm command."]}, {"id": "C4.35.61", "lines": ["“Seek only goodness, truth in what you do;", "Let no neglect or fault be traced to you.”"]}, {"id": "C4.35.62", "lines": ["Then from the town he took the desert way,", "And bore its hardships lightly day by day."]}, {"id": "C4.35.63", "lines": ["By holy God’s decree, no dust was seen", "Along the desert, now a path of green."]}, {"id": "C4.35.64", "lines": ["Clouds filled the sky; green grain spread far and wide,", "With tulips and wild blossoms side by side."]}, {"id": "C4.35.65", "lines": ["Provision-wagons led the marching force;", "The buffalo drew wagons on their course."]}, {"id": "C4.35.66", "lines": ["Green grass and resting places stretched around;", "Clouds filled the sky, and water filled the ground."]}, {"id": "C4.36.1", "lines": ["When Khosrow came to Zereh’s waters wide,", "The warriors loosed their belts beside the tide."]}, {"id": "C4.36.2", "lines": ["The Shah had brought from Chin and Makran’s shore", "The finest sailors skilled in sail and oar."]}, {"id": "C4.36.3", "lines": ["Upon the shore he had all things prepared,", "Then launched the ships for which his men had cared."]}, {"id": "C4.36.4", "lines": ["He ordered stores sufficient for a year,", "Until the farther coast should once appear."]}, {"id": "C4.36.5", "lines": ["The prosperous Shah, intent upon his way,", "With honor from the shore he sailed away."]}, {"id": "C4.36.6", "lines": ["He turned in fervent prayer and deep appeal,", "Before the Maker, who makes all things real."]}, {"id": "C4.36.7", "lines": ["He prayed for Iran’s chiefs, the troops he led,", "His throne and arms, to reach the shore ahead."]}, {"id": "C4.36.8", "lines": ["He begged the Almighty, Lord of earth and sky,", "To bear him safe where lands beyond would lie."]}, {"id": "C4.36.9", "lines": ["He said, “Almighty Ruler of the spheres,", "Before whose gaze each mystery appears,"]}, {"id": "C4.36.10", "lines": ["You guard the land and sea from shore to shore,", "The starry heights and all creation’s store."]}, {"id": "C4.36.11", "lines": ["Protect my life, my army, all my own,", "My treasure and my crown and royal throne.”"]}, {"id": "C4.36.12", "lines": ["No heart could face that sea and still be bold;", "Its troubled waters made the blood run cold."]}, {"id": "C4.36.13", "lines": ["For six long months a ship would sail the deep,", "Its timbers serving everyone for sleep."]}, {"id": "C4.36.14", "lines": ["The seventh month, when half a year had passed,", "Would bring the north wind’s driving, wayward blast."]}, {"id": "C4.36.15", "lines": ["It would turn sails and drive a ship astray,", "While sailors struggled to regain their way."]}, {"id": "C4.36.16", "lines": ["It drove ships where the sailors feared to go,", "The “Lion’s Mouth,” as those who sailed would know."]}, {"id": "C4.36.17", "lines": ["Yet God ordained no wind should thwart his sail,", "Or make the Shah’s auspicious fortune fail."]}, {"id": "C4.36.18", "lines": ["The soldiers showed the Shah, in their surprise,", "The wonders spread before their startled eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.36.19", "lines": ["They saw both lions and bulls within the wave;", "Against the lions, bulls stood firm and brave."]}, {"id": "C4.36.20", "lines": ["Like kamands hung the hair of men they spied;", "Like sheep, they bore thick wool on every side."]}, {"id": "C4.36.21", "lines": ["A fishlike body bore a leopard’s head;", "A nahang’s body bore a gur’s instead."]}, {"id": "C4.36.22", "lines": ["With feet before and human hands behind,", "Some bore the heads of buffalo in kind."]}, {"id": "C4.36.23", "lines": ["One had a hog’s head on a lamb-like frame;", "And many more within the waters came."]}, {"id": "C4.36.24", "lines": ["The Iranians pointed out each wondrous sight,", "And called upon the Maker’s holy might."]}, {"id": "C4.36.25", "lines": ["By mercy of Yazdan on high, the breeze", "Grew calm; no hostile wind assailed the seas."]}, {"id": "C4.36.26", "lines": ["In seven months they crossed the waters wide;", "No wind had turned against them on the tide."]}, {"id": "C4.36.27", "lines": ["Khosrow, on landing, saw the open strand,", "Then thanked Yazdan who brought him safe to land."]}, {"id": "C4.36.28", "lines": ["He rubbed his face upon the dusty ground,", "And praised Yazdan whose saving help he found."]}, {"id": "C4.36.29", "lines": ["He drew his ships and boats up from the sea,", "Then left at once, from needless waiting free."]}, {"id": "C4.36.30", "lines": ["Before him stretched the desert’s sandy plain;", "He crossed the shifting dunes without a strain."]}, {"id": "C4.36.31", "lines": ["The cities bore Chin’s shape and stamp; among", "Their people, speech was like the Makran tongue."]}, {"id": "C4.36.32", "lines": ["Within those cities he took rest and bade", "That food for all his army should be laid."]}, {"id": "C4.36.33", "lines": ["The Shah entrusted Giv with that domain,", "And said, “Now harvest fortune’s promised gain."]}, {"id": "C4.36.34", "lines": ["Treat even evildoers with mild hand;", "No wealth or city shall my heart command."]}, {"id": "C4.36.35", "lines": ["From this day on I trust in God, my own", "True Helper, firmer than all crown or throne.”"]}, {"id": "C4.36.36", "lines": ["He chose a man of standing from his train,", "Who knew the foreign tongues and made them plain."]}, {"id": "C4.36.37", "lines": ["He sent this word to kings throughout the land:", "“Let all who seek contentment understand:"]}, {"id": "C4.36.38", "lines": ["Let them attend this court in festive guise,", "With generous hearts, and goodwill in their eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.36.39", "lines": ["But he who breaks the order of the king", "Shall pay the price that justice then shall bring.”"]}, {"id": "C4.36.40", "lines": ["No chief refused; each one of them complied,", "And humbly came to serve him at his side."]}, {"id": "C4.36.41", "lines": ["He raised them high with honor, grace, and praise,", "As though their heads could reach the sun’s bright rays."]}, {"id": "C4.36.42", "lines": ["He asked of Gangdezh, seeking news to learn", "Of Afrasiab’s throne, his chief concern."]}, {"id": "C4.36.43", "lines": ["The spokesman of the group of men replied,", "“No sea or mountain now blocks off your stride."]}, {"id": "C4.36.44", "lines": ["Through good and bad, the distance you would ride", "Is not above a hundred farsangs wide."]}, {"id": "C4.36.45", "lines": ["Where Turan’s ruler passed, his cruel spite", "Left few inhabitants along his flight."]}, {"id": "C4.36.46", "lines": ["Since crossing sea, Afrasiab and his train", "Have stayed at Gang, and there they still remain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.36.47", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced at all the news he heard;", "His hardships now seemed light at every word."]}, {"id": "C4.36.48", "lines": ["Robes were prepared for chiefs in that domain;", "They led the veterans’ horses up by rein."]}, {"id": "C4.36.49", "lines": ["He sent the rulers home, their homage paid,", "Then marched toward Gangdezh with his troops arrayed."]}, {"id": "C4.37.1", "lines": ["He drew the army up, gave food, and stood", "Remembering the Giver of all good."]}, {"id": "C4.37.2", "lines": ["He cried, “Whoever follows wickedness", "Shall writhe beneath God’s chastening distress."]}, {"id": "C4.37.3", "lines": ["If even one ant’s foot should suffer pain,", "Let none of you within this town remain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.37.4", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw the walls of Gangdezh rise,", "A veil of tears fell down before his eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.37.5", "lines": ["He left his steed and laid his head to ground,", "And praised the Maker with a respectful sound:"]}, {"id": "C4.37.6", "lines": ["“O righteous Judge, I am Your slave in awe,", "My heart is filled with reverence for Your law."]}, {"id": "C4.37.7", "lines": ["You gave me strength and rule, with farr beside,", "An army, fortune, courage as my guide,"]}, {"id": "C4.37.8", "lines": ["That I might see my father’s city wall,", "Its towers lifted high above us all."]}, {"id": "C4.37.9", "lines": ["It was Siavash who built this mighty place,", "By God’s own farr, raised from its lowest base."]}, {"id": "C4.37.10", "lines": ["The tyrant’s hand that took his life away", "Left every heart in grief and deep dismay.”"]}, {"id": "C4.37.11", "lines": ["The troops together wept beside the wall,", "For blameless Siavash and for his fall."]}, {"id": "C4.37.12", "lines": ["He perished by his adversary’s hand,", "A deed that sowed long feud through every land."]}, {"id": "C4.37.13", "lines": ["The news reached Afrasiab there with dread:", "“The Shah has crossed the sea,” the tidings said."]}, {"id": "C4.37.14", "lines": ["He hid the word he heard until the night,", "Then fled in silence, broken by his fright."]}, {"id": "C4.37.15", "lines": ["He told no man, left seasoned troops behind,", "And fled alone in misery of mind."]}, {"id": "C4.37.16", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow had entered Gangdezh fair,", "His heart was full of grief and troubled care."]}, {"id": "C4.37.17", "lines": ["He saw a garden gladdening every heart,", "Where meadows shone like Paradise apart."]}, {"id": "C4.37.18", "lines": ["Springs, flowers, hyacinths filled each garden space;", "The boughs gave nightingales a dwelling place."]}, {"id": "C4.37.19", "lines": ["All said, “Behold a place where men might stay", "In happiness until their dying day.”"]}, {"id": "C4.37.20", "lines": ["The wary king then issued his command", "To seek the leader of the Turkish band."]}, {"id": "C4.37.21", "lines": ["They searched through gardens, palaces, and plains,", "With guides to show the paths and hidden lanes."]}, {"id": "C4.37.22", "lines": ["The searchers roamed about like men insane,", "In hope some trace of him might still remain."]}, {"id": "C4.37.23", "lines": ["And as they pressed the search from place to place,", "They found his people, many, in that chase."]}, {"id": "C4.37.24", "lines": ["They slew full many innocents that day,", "Yet found no trace of where the monarch lay."]}, {"id": "C4.37.25", "lines": ["Khosrow remained a year, and all year long", "Held wine and minstrels, revelry, and song."]}, {"id": "C4.37.26", "lines": ["The world seemed Paradise, a fair retreat,", "With orchards, gardens, flowers fresh and sweet."]}, {"id": "C4.37.27", "lines": ["The gardens, rose-beds, every lovely sight", "Held fast the Shah in pleasure and delight."]}, {"id": "C4.37.28", "lines": ["He tarried there triumphant, glad at heart,", "Till Iran’s chiefs came forth to speak their part."]}, {"id": "C4.37.29", "lines": ["They said, “If you will never leave this place,", "Nor turn toward Iran, think what we may face:"]}, {"id": "C4.37.30", "lines": ["For Afrasiab has likely crossed the tide,", "And reached the land upon the farther side."]}, {"id": "C4.37.31", "lines": ["Shah Kavus sits upon the throne grown old,", "Bereft of royal farr, of troops and gold."]}, {"id": "C4.37.32", "lines": ["If Afrasiab comes in vengeful might,", "Who then will guard Iran and face the fight?"]}, {"id": "C4.37.33", "lines": ["Should he regain the crown and royal throne,", "Our toil would yield no fruit that we could own.”"]}, {"id": "C4.37.34", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “The counsel that you give", "Is wise and sound; through such advice we live.”"]}, {"id": "C4.37.35", "lines": ["He called the chief men of that place to stand,", "And spoke of all past labors in that land."]}, {"id": "C4.37.36", "lines": ["He chose the worthiest, whom all held dear,", "The man best fit to govern that frontier."]}, {"id": "C4.37.37", "lines": ["He gave him robes and set him at the helm", "As governor, to guard the town and realm."]}, {"id": "C4.37.38", "lines": ["He said, “Stay here in joy, your heart at rest;", "Root out suspicion from your troubled breast.”"]}, {"id": "C4.37.39", "lines": ["He shared the steeds and wealth and treasure-heap,", "Bestowing all he had within his keep."]}, {"id": "C4.37.40", "lines": ["The townsfolk prospered from his gifts of gold,", "With armlets, thrones, and crowns for them to hold."]}, {"id": "C4.38.1", "lines": ["When rooster’s cry awakened early light,", "The palace kousts rolled thunder from the height."]}, {"id": "C4.38.2", "lines": ["The army, eager for the homeward way,", "Turned toward the desert at the break of day."]}, {"id": "C4.38.3", "lines": ["The local chiefs, wherever power was known,", "Came out with food and gifts before the throne."]}, {"id": "C4.38.4", "lines": ["They furnished stores for all the army’s road,", "For Shah and troops, a rich and worthy load."]}, {"id": "C4.38.5", "lines": ["Along the route the army took its way,", "The plains and valleys bloomed like marts by day."]}, {"id": "C4.38.6", "lines": ["Through mountains, deserts, every resting place,", "None dared lay hands on others in disgrace."]}, {"id": "C4.38.7", "lines": ["Great men with gifts and offerings came in line,", "To welcome such a monarch’s royal sign."]}, {"id": "C4.38.8", "lines": ["He freed them from attendance on his road,", "And gave them robes where royal favor showed."]}, {"id": "C4.38.9", "lines": ["Then Giv came forth with army, chiefs, and train,", "The leaders of that country on the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.38.10", "lines": ["When Giv beheld the Shah’s majestic grace,", "He left his horse and bowed before his face."]}, {"id": "C4.38.11", "lines": ["The Shah received them, gracious in his thanks,", "And, by the ancient rites, assigned their ranks."]}, {"id": "C4.38.12", "lines": ["He reached the sea, dismounted on the strand,", "And looked upon the sails that lined the sand."]}, {"id": "C4.38.13", "lines": ["Two weeks he lingered there beside the bay,", "And spoke with Giv of sights along the way."]}, {"id": "C4.38.14", "lines": ["He said, “Who has not seen Gang should not yearn", "For lengthy life while seasons turn and turn.”"]}, {"id": "C4.38.15", "lines": ["The Shah bade all prepare to leave the beach;", "They launched two boats, the open sea to reach."]}, {"id": "C4.38.16", "lines": ["They gathered those who knew the seaman’s skill,", "And faced the ocean’s depths with fearless will."]}, {"id": "C4.38.17", "lines": ["He bade them raise the sails and quit the strand,", "To cross the boundless waters, far from land."]}, {"id": "C4.38.18", "lines": ["A year-long voyage lay across the main;", "In seven months swift winds bore home his train."]}, {"id": "C4.38.19", "lines": ["The Shah and army crossed; no wind had set", "Against them, nor had even sleeves grown wet."]}, {"id": "C4.38.20", "lines": ["He led the army shoreward, voyage past;", "They moored the boats and viewed the deserts vast."]}, {"id": "C4.38.21", "lines": ["He rubbed his face upon the dusty ground,", "And called on holy God with reverent sound."]}, {"id": "C4.38.22", "lines": ["He left abundant food, and clothes to wear,", "For sailors and the men who steered, to share."]}, {"id": "C4.38.23", "lines": ["For all who bore the hardships of the main,", "He ordered coins and robes to ease their pain."]}, {"id": "C4.38.24", "lines": ["He took the desert road while all men gazed,", "And at his safe return they stood amazed."]}, {"id": "C4.38.25", "lines": ["When Ashkash heard, he made his troops complete,", "And came upon the road, the Shah to meet."]}, {"id": "C4.38.26", "lines": ["He left his horse and kissed the earth below,", "Then spoke his blessings over Shah Khosrow."]}, {"id": "C4.38.27", "lines": ["They decked all Tiz and Makran for that day,", "And summoned minstrels there from every way."]}, {"id": "C4.38.28", "lines": ["Through roads and open country music rang;", "The air seemed warp and woof as strings there sang."]}, {"id": "C4.38.29", "lines": ["They hung the walls with brocades bright and fair,", "And scattered sweets and silver everywhere."]}, {"id": "C4.38.30", "lines": ["The nobles of Makran, all the men of name,", "And mighty warriors to Khosrow came."]}, {"id": "C4.38.31", "lines": ["With gifts and offerings, all approached the throne,", "To greet the shah whose victory was known."]}, {"id": "C4.38.32", "lines": ["Ashkash brought all the wealth that he had found", "Throughout the kingdom and its lands around."]}, {"id": "C4.38.33", "lines": ["The Shah received the treasure for his hoard,", "And from his court selected one as lord."]}, {"id": "C4.38.34", "lines": ["He made him ruler over Makran’s lands,", "With praise and robes of honor from his hands."]}, {"id": "C4.38.35", "lines": ["When Khosrow left Makran with Iran’s train,", "He turned toward Chin across the open plain."]}, {"id": "C4.38.36", "lines": ["Then Rostam, son of Zal, of Sahm’s great line,", "Came forth with joyful troops in order fine."]}, {"id": "C4.38.37", "lines": ["That noble horseman saw from far away", "The parasol that marked the Shah’s array."]}, {"id": "C4.38.38", "lines": ["He left his steed and bowed before the ground;", "The Shah embraced him, both arms folded round."]}, {"id": "C4.38.39", "lines": ["He told of wonders seen upon the main,", "And sorcerous Afrasiab, sought in vain."]}, {"id": "C4.38.40", "lines": ["One week he stayed as Rostam’s honored guest,", "Then left Machin and Chin in settled rest."]}, {"id": "C4.38.41", "lines": ["Then toward Siavash-Gard he took his way,", "In Sapandarmad’s month, on Ard’s bright day."]}, {"id": "C4.38.42", "lines": ["His eyes filled up with tears as he drew near;", "His father’s city rose before him clear."]}, {"id": "C4.38.43", "lines": ["There Garsivaz, that man of evil mark,", "And cursed Gurvi had made the bright world dark."]}, {"id": "C4.38.44", "lines": ["They had beheaded Siavash in shame;", "To that same place the grieving monarch came."]}, {"id": "C4.38.45", "lines": ["He tore his face and breast in bitter woe;", "Upon his head he let the dark dust flow."]}, {"id": "C4.38.46", "lines": ["Then Rostam bowed to earth in grief and pain,", "And cursed the soul of Gurvi, foul with stain."]}, {"id": "C4.38.47", "lines": ["Then Kay Khosrow cried out, “My father dear,", "You left me as your living memory here."]}, {"id": "C4.38.48", "lines": ["I have neglected not one debt to you;", "While earth endures, your vengeance I pursue."]}, {"id": "C4.38.49", "lines": ["I emptied Afrasiab’s royal seat;", "I shall not seek repose or slumber sweet."]}, {"id": "C4.38.50", "lines": ["I hope to seize him, end his heedless flight,", "And make his world grow narrow, dark as night.”"]}, {"id": "C4.38.51", "lines": ["He turned then to his father’s treasure-store,", "Of which his mother spoke to him before."]}, {"id": "C4.38.52", "lines": ["He opened it and furnished new supplies,", "Then stayed two joyful weeks beneath those skies."]}, {"id": "C4.38.53", "lines": ["Two hundred purses of dinars he gave", "To Rostam, and rich gifts to Giv the brave."]}, {"id": "C4.38.54", "lines": ["When Gostaham, the son of Nohzar, heard", "The Shah had reached his father’s home, he stirred."]}, {"id": "C4.38.55", "lines": ["He set out with a mighty escort, all", "The chiefs of Iran, warriors at his call."]}, {"id": "C4.38.56", "lines": ["He saw the Shah’s bright crown from far away,", "Dismounted, walking far to him that day."]}, {"id": "C4.38.57", "lines": ["They all acclaimed the just king of the land,", "With blessings spoken by the gathered band."]}, {"id": "C4.38.58", "lines": ["The Shah bade Gostaham remount and ride;", "They rode in joy, hands clasped, and side by side."]}, {"id": "C4.38.59", "lines": ["They came to Gang-Behesht, where royal grace", "Gave all the troops great honor in that place."]}, {"id": "C4.38.60", "lines": ["For faithfulness is like a fruitful tree,", "Still bearing fresh fruit for the world to see."]}, {"id": "C4.38.61", "lines": ["The Shah and warriors feasted without cease,", "With banquet, chase, and every form of peace."]}, {"id": "C4.38.62", "lines": ["The Turks as well, those men of lofty name,", "Received from him each favor they could claim."]}, {"id": "C4.38.63", "lines": ["Without a pause, Khosrow sought every sign,", "Some trace of Afrasiab’s lost design."]}, {"id": "C4.38.64", "lines": ["None brought a sign or named his hiding place;", "None spoke of him, and none could find a trace."]}, {"id": "C4.38.65", "lines": ["One night he washed his body and his head,", "With Zand-Avesta then withdrew and read."]}, {"id": "C4.38.66", "lines": ["All night he wept with forehead on the ground,", "And prayed before the Maker without sound."]}, {"id": "C4.38.67", "lines": ["He said, “Your helpless slave is bowed with pain;", "His soul is filled with grief that will not wane."]}, {"id": "C4.38.68", "lines": ["Through mountain, river, desert, stream, and dale,", "I seek for Afrasiab’s trace, and fail."]}, {"id": "C4.38.69", "lines": ["He would not walk Your righteous path or heed", "The worth of anyone in word or deed."]}, {"id": "C4.38.70", "lines": ["You know he strayed from justice in his reign,", "And left so many guiltless people slain."]}, {"id": "C4.38.71", "lines": ["May You, the one just God, become my guide,", "And lead me where that evil man may hide."]}, {"id": "C4.38.72", "lines": ["Though I may be unworthy as Your slave,", "I worship You, who life to all things gave."]}, {"id": "C4.38.73", "lines": ["No word of him is heard beneath the sky;", "What hides from me lies bare before Your eye."]}, {"id": "C4.38.74", "lines": ["If You are pleased with him, O Judge of right,", "Then turn me from this struggle and this fight."]}, {"id": "C4.38.75", "lines": ["Put out this fire of vengeance in my breast;", "Conform my way to Yours and grant me rest.”"]}, {"id": "C4.38.76", "lines": ["Then from his prayer he sought his throne and crown,", "The proud young king of fortunate renown."]}, {"id": "C4.38.77", "lines": ["He stayed at Gang-Behesht a year, released", "From marches and the wars that now had ceased."]}, {"id": "C4.39.1", "lines": ["When long at Gang-Behesht the Shah had stayed,", "He yearned to see Kavus, his course now laid."]}, {"id": "C4.39.2", "lines": ["From Chin’s far sea to Kibchak’s distant plain,", "He placed the country under Gostaham’s reign."]}, {"id": "C4.39.3", "lines": ["To Nohzar’s son he gave a mighty force,", "And said, “Be glad, but watchful on your course."]}, {"id": "C4.39.4", "lines": ["Through Chin and Makran stretch your watchful hand,", "Send envoys forth, with letters of command."]}, {"id": "C4.39.5", "lines": ["Seek Afrasiab’s trail on each frontier;", "Perhaps the world of him may yet be clear.”"]}, {"id": "C4.39.6", "lines": ["Whatever wealth that country had amassed,", "Gold coins and uncut gems, a hoard so vast,"]}, {"id": "C4.39.7", "lines": ["Musk, servants, garments, trappings wrought of gold,", "Effects, steeds, slave-boys, riches manifold,"]}, {"id": "C4.39.8", "lines": ["With furnishings from Chin and carpets rare,", "Makran’s rich produce, gathered everywhere,"]}, {"id": "C4.39.9", "lines": ["He drove before him on the homeward road;", "Full forty thousand oxen drew the load."]}, {"id": "C4.39.10", "lines": ["He said, “None ever saw such wealth before,", "Nor ever gathered such abundant store!”"]}, {"id": "C4.39.11", "lines": ["For ten full days and nights the vast array", "Streamed over hill and vale upon its way."]}, {"id": "C4.39.12", "lines": ["As rearward ranks broke camp with all their load,", "The foremost reached fresh lodgings down the road."]}, {"id": "C4.39.13", "lines": ["At Chakh, above the throne of ivory white,", "He hung his crown, suspended at its height."]}, {"id": "C4.39.14", "lines": ["He stayed a week in Sughd; before him came", "Khuzan and Talhaman, men of noble name."]}, {"id": "C4.39.15", "lines": ["He marched from there toward famed Bukhara’s wall,", "While troops concealed the earth from sight of all."]}, {"id": "C4.39.16", "lines": ["One week he spent in feasting and repose;", "The second week he dressed in fresh new clothes."]}, {"id": "C4.39.17", "lines": ["He reached the ancient temple, and with tears", "He mourned the vanished days of former years."]}, {"id": "C4.39.18", "lines": ["Tur, son of Fereydoon, had raised that place,", "With palaces within its sacred space."]}, {"id": "C4.39.19", "lines": ["He spread out silver, gold, for priests to claim,", "And scattered precious jewels upon the Flame."]}, {"id": "C4.39.20", "lines": ["Then, eager still to go, content in heart,", "The happy Shah prepared at once to start."]}, {"id": "C4.39.21", "lines": ["He crossed the Jihun, reaching Balkh the great,", "Well taught by all the changes of his fate."]}, {"id": "C4.39.22", "lines": ["A month in Balkh he stayed with his array;", "The month complete, he marched upon his way."]}, {"id": "C4.39.23", "lines": ["In every city he appointed men,", "With troops to keep the peace and rule again."]}, {"id": "C4.39.24", "lines": ["Where Shah and army passed, the people dressed", "The roads and country in their festive best."]}, {"id": "C4.39.25", "lines": ["As Talikan and Marvrud came in view,", "The world rang out with songs both old and new."]}, {"id": "C4.39.26", "lines": ["Then toward Nishapur the monarch led", "His treasure, troops, and elephants ahead."]}, {"id": "C4.39.27", "lines": ["They decked their cities, called for wine and song,", "While minstrels played the festive streets along."]}, {"id": "C4.39.28", "lines": ["They poured down saffron, musk, and coins like rain,", "And scattered gold across the crowded plain."]}, {"id": "C4.39.29", "lines": ["To poor men and to those whose toil supplied", "Their livelihood, his bounty opened wide."]}, {"id": "C4.39.30", "lines": ["From royal stores the silver gifts were sent;", "Full fifty-five great purses there were spent."]}, {"id": "C4.39.31", "lines": ["A week went by; he took the road to Rey,", "With song and music sounding all the way."]}, {"id": "C4.39.32", "lines": ["Two weeks at Rey he feasted and bestowed;", "The third, he set out on the Shiraz road."]}, {"id": "C4.39.33", "lines": ["He sent out camel riders, news to bring", "From Rey to Pars, to Kavus, Iran’s king."]}, {"id": "C4.40.1", "lines": ["Shah Kavus felt his heart revive that day,", "As though new life had opened up its way."]}, {"id": "C4.40.2", "lines": ["He set up golden thrones within each hall,", "And hung Chin’s richest brocades on the wall."]}, {"id": "C4.40.3", "lines": ["They decked the towns and roads, and made them fair,", "The streets, bazaars, and quarters everywhere."]}, {"id": "C4.40.4", "lines": ["The nobles all went out to welcome him,", "The chiefs of Iran, proud in face and limb."]}, {"id": "C4.40.5", "lines": ["They raised pavilions all along the road,", "Till all the world like golden brocade glowed."]}, {"id": "C4.40.6", "lines": ["They mixed bright gems with musk and let them flow", "From domes upon the heads of those below."]}, {"id": "C4.40.7", "lines": ["When Kay Kavus, with chiefs of high command,", "Had come outside the city through the land,"]}, {"id": "C4.40.8", "lines": ["The young Shah saw his grandfather afar,", "And spurred his charger like a shooting star."]}, {"id": "C4.40.9", "lines": ["They clasped each other, kissed both face and head,", "And tears of bitterness between them shed."]}, {"id": "C4.40.10", "lines": ["They wept for all the years of grief and pain", "They lived without the joy they now could gain."]}, {"id": "C4.40.11", "lines": ["Kavus praised that young Shah of fortune bright,", "Favored by stars and armed with royal light."]}, {"id": "C4.40.12", "lines": ["He said, “May world and crown and noble throne", "Never be left without you as their own."]}, {"id": "C4.40.13", "lines": ["The sun has seen no Shah of greater fame,", "With steeds, throne, jowshan, helm to match his name."]}, {"id": "C4.40.14", "lines": ["From Jamshid down to Fereydoon, none knew", "A Shah whom earth and heaven held like you."]}, {"id": "C4.40.15", "lines": ["No mighty man has borne such heavy care,", "Or seen earth’s open wonders, secrets rare."]}, {"id": "C4.40.16", "lines": ["May this bright world be blessed for you; may all", "Your foes be torn in heart and soul, and fall."]}, {"id": "C4.40.17", "lines": ["If Siavash rose living from the grave,", "Your fortune and your farr he, too, would crave.”"]}, {"id": "C4.40.18", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “All came by your good star;", "Your branch bore fruit and spread its fame afar.”"]}, {"id": "C4.40.19", "lines": ["Kavus then kissed his head and lips: “May night", "And day not rob me of your welcome sight.”"]}, {"id": "C4.40.20", "lines": ["Khosrow brought rubies, emeralds, and gold,", "And showered them on Kavus, both bright and old."]}, {"id": "C4.40.21", "lines": ["So richly did he heap them by the seat,", "The gems rose high and hid its jeweled feet."]}, {"id": "C4.40.22", "lines": ["Kavus commanded, “Call the chiefs to dine;", "Prepare another hall with feast and wine.”"]}, {"id": "C4.40.23", "lines": ["The mighty chiefs sat gathered with the Shah,", "Within a golden garden filled with awe."]}, {"id": "C4.40.24", "lines": ["He told of wonders seen upon the main,", "And tales he heard the noblemen explain."]}, {"id": "C4.40.25", "lines": ["He spoke of Gangdezh and the stormy sea,", "And fired the chiefs with longing there to be."]}, {"id": "C4.40.26", "lines": ["They sighed for that fair city, plain, and height,", "Its gardens glowing like the lamps at night."]}, {"id": "C4.40.27", "lines": ["Kavus was lost in wonder at his tale,", "And weighed the deeds that made all others pale."]}, {"id": "C4.40.28", "lines": ["He said, “New days and months renew our cheer;", "A young Shah’s fresh and youthful words we hear."]}, {"id": "C4.40.29", "lines": ["No world has ever looked on one like you,", "No ear has heard such wonders spoken true."]}, {"id": "C4.40.30", "lines": ["Come, let us feast beneath this happy star,", "And drink to Khosrow, whose renown goes far.”"]}, {"id": "C4.40.31", "lines": ["He decked the golden garden, fair and fine;", "A ruby-lipped cupbearer brought the wine."]}, {"id": "C4.40.32", "lines": ["For one full week the wine’s bright waves arose", "From Kay Kavus’s goblets in their rows."]}, {"id": "C4.40.33", "lines": ["The eighth day, Shah Kavus opened his store,", "And paid rewards for toils endured before."]}, {"id": "C4.40.34", "lines": ["For all great men who followed Khosrow’s lead", "Through feast and joy and grief and time of need,"]}, {"id": "C4.40.35", "lines": ["They chose rich robes as each man’s rank required,", "And from the hoard the finest gifts desired."]}, {"id": "C4.40.36", "lines": ["Then each departed to his province wide,", "With famous troops and honor at his side."]}, {"id": "C4.40.37", "lines": ["A year’s full silver wages were conveyed", "From royal stores, and all the troops were paid."]}, {"id": "C4.40.38", "lines": ["The grandfather and prince withdrew apart,", "With counselors who knew the royal heart."]}, {"id": "C4.40.39", "lines": ["Khosrow addressed Kavus the Shah and said,", "“From whom but God shall mortal men be led?"]}, {"id": "C4.40.40", "lines": ["Through fields and mountains, seas a year to sail,", "We bore our grief along that bitter trail."]}, {"id": "C4.40.41", "lines": ["Yet nowhere, over mountain, sea, or sand,", "Did we find traces of him on the land."]}, {"id": "C4.40.42", "lines": ["If he returns to Gang, without delay", "From all sides troops will gather and obey."]}, {"id": "C4.40.43", "lines": ["Then all our toil and hardship lie ahead,", "Though God still grants us help where we are led.”"]}, {"id": "C4.40.44", "lines": ["His grandfather heard all the young Shah told,", "And answered with the wisdom of the old."]}, {"id": "C4.40.45", "lines": ["“We two shall mount and ride without delay", "To Azargashasp’s shrine upon our way."]}, {"id": "C4.40.46", "lines": ["We shall wash head and body, hands and feet,", "As worshippers before the Maker meet."]}, {"id": "C4.40.47", "lines": ["In secret let us praise Yazdan of all,", "And turn to Him alone with prayer and call."]}, {"id": "C4.40.48", "lines": ["Before the Fire we shall stand and pray;", "Perhaps the holy God will show the way."]}, {"id": "C4.40.49", "lines": ["May He reveal the place where rests our foe,", "And guide us to the refuge we would know.”"]}, {"id": "C4.40.50", "lines": ["They both agreed upon the sacred course,", "And neither let his purpose lose its force."]}, {"id": "C4.40.51", "lines": ["They mounted, swift as wind, and rode away,", "To Azargashasp’s shrine without delay."]}, {"id": "C4.40.52", "lines": ["They journeyed in their robes of spotless white,", "With fear and hope within their hearts alight."]}, {"id": "C4.40.53", "lines": ["When they beheld the Fire, they wept and came", "To scatter precious jewels upon the flame."]}, {"id": "C4.40.54", "lines": ["The two Shahs stayed there, weeping in their pain,", "And cried for help with tears that fell like rain."]}, {"id": "C4.40.55", "lines": ["They called upon the Maker, praised Him long,", "And showered gems upon the priestly throng."]}, {"id": "C4.40.56", "lines": ["Shah Khosrow washed his face with tears that flowed;", "On Zand-Avesta, dinars he bestowed."]}, {"id": "C4.40.57", "lines": ["A week they stayed before their God and prayed;", "Do not suppose to fire their worship strayed."]}, {"id": "C4.40.58", "lines": ["The Fire was then their prayer’s appointed place;", "The worshipper had tears upon his face."]}, {"id": "C4.40.59", "lines": ["Though thought may wander far and never cease,", "Your need for holy God will not decrease."]}, {"id": "C4.40.60", "lines": ["Thus in Azar Abadagan they stayed,", "One month, with all their royal court arrayed."]}, {"id": "C4.41.1", "lines": ["Now fallen Afrasiab, gaunt with dread,", "Roamed sleepless, starving, with no home or bed."]}, {"id": "C4.41.2", "lines": ["His soul on thorns, his body racked with pain,", "He feared each hour would tighten ruin’s chain."]}, {"id": "C4.41.3", "lines": ["He sought a place where he could safely rest,", "His body whole, no fear within his breast."]}, {"id": "C4.41.4", "lines": ["Near Barda, on a mountain’s secret height,", "He found a cavern hidden from men’s sight."]}, {"id": "C4.41.5", "lines": ["No hawk above that height was seen to fly,", "No lion’s track or boar’s haunt lay nearby."]}, {"id": "C4.41.6", "lines": ["He carried food there, fearful for his life,", "And made the cave his home in grief and strife."]}, {"id": "C4.41.7", "lines": ["Far from the towns, beside the waters clear,", "Lay Hang Afrasiab, his refuge here."]}, {"id": "C4.41.8", "lines": ["He lived there for a while with burdened breast,", "Repenting deeds that robbed his soul of rest."]}, {"id": "C4.41.9", "lines": ["Whenever kings grow thirsty after gore,", "Their tenure on the throne lasts little more."]}, {"id": "C4.41.10", "lines": ["He was a king, the master of a throne,", "A lord whom watchful fortune called its own."]}, {"id": "C4.41.11", "lines": ["Once he shed blood, his foes rose in a flood;", "Blessed is the king who sheds no royal blood."]}, {"id": "C4.41.12", "lines": ["A holy teacher lived there, widely known,", "From Fereydoon’s illustrious lineage grown."]}, {"id": "C4.41.13", "lines": ["He bore the royal splendor, serving still", "His Shah, his loins girt up to do his will."]}, {"id": "C4.41.14", "lines": ["He used the mountain as his place of prayer,", "Far from men’s pleasures and the world’s affair."]}, {"id": "C4.41.15", "lines": ["The name of that illustrious man was Hohm,", "A man of prayer who made the wild his home."]}, {"id": "C4.41.16", "lines": ["A cavern on the lofty mountain-height,", "Far from the crowd, stood close within his sight."]}, {"id": "C4.41.17", "lines": ["As Hohm, in woolen robes, was deep in prayer,", "A wailing from the cavern stirred the air:"]}, {"id": "C4.41.18", "lines": ["“O king, renowned, whom mighty men acclaimed,", "O judge of judges, far and widely famed!"]}, {"id": "C4.41.19", "lines": ["Whom Chin, Turan, and all the world obeyed,", "Whose covenants through every region stayed,"]}, {"id": "C4.41.20", "lines": ["Now this poor cavern is your only share;", "Where are your crown and warriors? Show me where."]}, {"id": "C4.41.21", "lines": ["Where are your manhood, courage, strength, and might,", "Your power and wisdom, once so great in fight?"]}, {"id": "C4.41.22", "lines": ["Where are your majesty, your throne, your sway,", "Your crown, your realm, your troops in proud array?"]}, {"id": "C4.41.23", "lines": ["Now in this narrow cavern you must dwell,", "A fugitive within a rocky cell.”"]}, {"id": "C4.41.24", "lines": ["Hohm heard the lamentation’s Turkish sound,", "And left his prayer, forsaking sacred ground."]}, {"id": "C4.41.25", "lines": ["He said, “This wailing in the hidden night", "Must be the fallen king’s despair and fright.”"]}, {"id": "C4.41.26", "lines": ["When certainty had settled in his mind,", "He sought the hidden cave he hoped to find."]}, {"id": "C4.41.27", "lines": ["He climbed down from the mountain after dark,", "And found the cavern’s entrance, hard to mark."]}, {"id": "C4.41.28", "lines": ["Then like a savage lion Hohm drew near,", "And loosened at his waist his woolen gear."]}, {"id": "C4.41.29", "lines": ["His kamand served in place of sacred cord;", "He took it, trusting in the world’s great Lord."]}, {"id": "C4.41.30", "lines": ["He took the cord into the cavern’s gloom;", "The king rose up to meet him in that room."]}, {"id": "C4.41.31", "lines": ["They wrestled fiercely, locked in combat tight,", "Till Hohm subdued him with superior might."]}, {"id": "C4.41.32", "lines": ["He threw the king; to earth the monarch crashed;", "Then Hohm bound both his arms, securely lashed."]}, {"id": "C4.41.33", "lines": ["He dragged the captive onward in his train,", "And rushed like one distraught, in toil and pain."]}, {"id": "C4.41.34", "lines": ["It is no wonder if you stand amazed;", "Let every king whom power and rank have raised"]}, {"id": "C4.41.35", "lines": ["Choose nothing but the honor of his name,", "Not idle strutting, food, or pleasure’s claim."]}, {"id": "C4.41.36", "lines": ["For shelter Afrasiab chose that space,", "Not knowing it was ruin’s dwelling place."]}, {"id": "C4.42.1", "lines": ["Now thus it was when Hohm had bound him tight,", "He dragged the fallen monarch into light."]}, {"id": "C4.42.2", "lines": ["Afrasiab cried, “O holy man of prayer,", "Who knows God’s law and breathes the mountain air,"]}, {"id": "C4.42.3", "lines": ["What would you do with one who once was king,", "Though in this deep and boundless cave I cling?”"]}, {"id": "C4.42.4", "lines": ["Hohm answered, “Here you cannot hide your fame;", "The whole world rings and echoes with your name."]}, {"id": "C4.42.5", "lines": ["What king has killed his brother? Who but you", "Has dared defy the holy Maker too?"]}, {"id": "C4.42.6", "lines": ["You slew Aghriras, Nohzar, famed and great,", "And pure Siavash, heir to royal state."]}, {"id": "C4.42.7", "lines": ["No more spill royal blood, nor seek to save", "Yourself by flight from throne to endless cave.”"]}, {"id": "C4.42.8", "lines": ["The king replied, “O man of strength and might,", "Who in this world is faultless in your sight?"]}, {"id": "C4.42.9", "lines": ["Such was the course high heaven had decreed;", "Through me came grief and ruin’s bitter seed."]}, {"id": "C4.42.10", "lines": ["Though one may seize a dragon by the neck,", "God’s purposes no mortal hand can check."]}, {"id": "C4.42.11", "lines": ["Pity me now, for hopeless is my state,", "Though I have brought myself to such a fate."]}, {"id": "C4.42.12", "lines": ["I am the seed of mighty Fereydoon;", "I shall break free of these close bindings soon."]}, {"id": "C4.42.13", "lines": ["Where would you drag me, bound and in dismay?", "Do you not fear God on the Judgment Day?”"]}, {"id": "C4.42.14", "lines": ["Hohm answered, “Wicked man, your end draws near;", "I doubt that you have long to linger here."]}, {"id": "C4.42.15", "lines": ["Your words bloom like a garden fresh with spring;", "Yet Kay Khosrow shall end your life, O king.”"]}, {"id": "C4.42.16", "lines": ["Yet Hohm felt pity for that wretched lord,", "And eased his kamand, loosening the cord."]}, {"id": "C4.42.17", "lines": ["When Afrasiab saw that holy man", "Had pitied one beneath misfortune’s ban,"]}, {"id": "C4.42.18", "lines": ["He writhed and wrenched his body from the hold,", "Then plunged and vanished in the waters cold."]}, {"id": "C4.42.19", "lines": ["Then Gudarz, noble son of Keshvad, came,", "With Giv and many chiefs of honored name."]}, {"id": "C4.42.20", "lines": ["While riding toward the Shah with all his train,", "He glanced across the waters from the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.42.21", "lines": ["He noticed Hohm, his kamand in his hand,", "Who wandered grieving there along the strand."]}, {"id": "C4.42.22", "lines": ["He saw the water troubled near the shore,", "And saw the dazed look that the hermit wore."]}, {"id": "C4.42.23", "lines": ["Then Gudarz thought, “He fishes, and has cast", "His net for quarry in the deep Khanjast."]}, {"id": "C4.42.24", "lines": ["Perhaps a nahang fills his net, and he", "Stands stunned and wonders what this thing may be.”"]}, {"id": "C4.42.25", "lines": ["He spoke to Hohm and said, “O holy man,", "What is your aim? Declare it if you can."]}, {"id": "C4.42.26", "lines": ["What do you seek beside this water blue?", "Have you come here to wash the dirt from you?”"]}, {"id": "C4.42.27", "lines": ["Hohm answered him, “O noble man, attend,", "And weigh this matter through from end to end."]}, {"id": "C4.42.28", "lines": ["My dwelling stands upon that mountain height,", "Far off from men, where prayer is my delight."]}, {"id": "C4.42.29", "lines": ["All through the dark I prayed to God alone;", "All night in prayer I made His praises known."]}, {"id": "C4.42.30", "lines": ["When birds began to call as dawn drew near,", "A cry of lamentation reached my ear."]}, {"id": "C4.42.31", "lines": ["At once my heart grew bright with hope to tear", "The roots of vengeance from the world we share."]}, {"id": "C4.42.32", "lines": ["I thought: ‘No other voice could grieve this way;", "It must be Afrasiab where he lay.’"]}, {"id": "C4.42.33", "lines": ["I searched through mountain caves until I found", "The grieving monarch’s doorway underground."]}, {"id": "C4.42.34", "lines": ["That luckless one lay grieving, and his groan", "Lamented bitterly his crown and throne."]}, {"id": "C4.42.35", "lines": ["He sprang up as I entered, fierce and fit;", "Beneath his feet the hardest stone was split."]}, {"id": "C4.42.36", "lines": ["I bound both hands with girdle drawn so tight", "That blood ran from them both before my sight."]}, {"id": "C4.42.37", "lines": ["I dragged him down the mountain as he cried;", "He wailed like mourning women at my side."]}, {"id": "C4.42.38", "lines": ["Moved by his cries and oaths that pleaded grace,", "I eased the binding at this very place."]}, {"id": "C4.42.39", "lines": ["At once he writhed and slipped from my kamand,", "And left me grieving, helpless on the strand."]}, {"id": "C4.42.40", "lines": ["He vanished in these waters of Khanjast;", "Now all the tale before your ears has passed.”"]}, {"id": "C4.42.41", "lines": ["When Gudarz heard the whole account, he thought", "Back to a saying that the past had taught."]}, {"id": "C4.42.42", "lines": ["Deep lost in thought, he sought the sacred shrine,", "Distraught by grief yet seeking the divine."]}, {"id": "C4.42.43", "lines": ["Before the Fire he prayed and offered praise", "To Him who formed the world and rules its days."]}, {"id": "C4.42.44", "lines": ["His worship done, he told what had occurred,", "And let both Shahs learn all that he had heard."]}, {"id": "C4.42.45", "lines": ["At once both Shahs took horse and rode away", "From Azargashasp’s halls without delay."]}, {"id": "C4.43.1", "lines": ["The two crowned monarchs, troubled and intent,", "Went straight to Hohm, on anxious purpose bent."]}, {"id": "C4.43.2", "lines": ["When Hohm beheld the two crowned Shahs appear,", "He paid them reverence with a heart sincere."]}, {"id": "C4.43.3", "lines": ["They blessed him in the name of God on high;", "Then Shah Kavus spoke warmly in reply:"]}, {"id": "C4.43.4", "lines": ["“Thanks be to God, in whom our refuge lies,", "That I have looked into this good man’s eyes:"]}, {"id": "C4.43.5", "lines": ["A man of knowledge, mastery, and might,", "Devoted to Yazdan of truth and light.”"]}, {"id": "C4.43.6", "lines": ["Hohm answered, “May your just rule bring increase;", "May all your realm be prosperous in peace."]}, {"id": "C4.43.7", "lines": ["May this young Shah’s new day be blessed, and death", "Tear all his foes away from life and breath."]}, {"id": "C4.43.8", "lines": ["I prayed upon this mountain’s lonely height,", "When Khosrow passed toward Gangdezh in his might,"]}, {"id": "C4.43.9", "lines": ["That He who made the world would make earth bloom", "Through him and give prosperity more room."]}, {"id": "C4.43.10", "lines": ["When he returned, I laughed aloud in praise,", "And thanked Yazdan who guides us through our days."]}, {"id": "C4.43.11", "lines": ["At night, the blessed Soroush made it clear,", "And brought the hidden secret to my ear."]}, {"id": "C4.43.12", "lines": ["A cry rose from that fathomless dark cave;", "I heard the voice and marked the sound it gave."]}, {"id": "C4.43.13", "lines": ["He mourned his ivory throne, his wealth and crown,", "His realm and troops, his greatness broken down."]}, {"id": "C4.43.14", "lines": ["Down from the peak I went to that dark hold,", "And grasped my girdle-kamand, firm and bold."]}, {"id": "C4.43.15", "lines": ["I saw his head and ears within the shade:", "Afrasiab had there his refuge made."]}, {"id": "C4.43.16", "lines": ["I bound him fast as stone, then dragged my prey", "Out of that narrow cavern into day."]}, {"id": "C4.43.17", "lines": ["At his request I eased the cord I tied;", "He slipped it when we reached the waterside."]}, {"id": "C4.43.18", "lines": ["Now hidden in the lake he lies concealed;", "His trace on earth must end, his fate be sealed."]}, {"id": "C4.43.19", "lines": ["If heaven turns against him, in his breast", "His love for Garsivaz may stir from rest."]}, {"id": "C4.43.20", "lines": ["When this exalted Shah gives his command,", "Bring forth his brother, fettered where we stand."]}, {"id": "C4.43.21", "lines": ["Sew raw ox-hide across his shoulders tight,", "Until his body loses strength and might."]}, {"id": "C4.43.22", "lines": ["When Afrasiab hears his brother’s cry,", "He may emerge from where the waters lie.”"]}, {"id": "C4.43.23", "lines": ["The guards went forth at once with swords to wield,", "And each man bore a Gilan-fashioned shield."]}, {"id": "C4.43.24", "lines": ["They fetched Garsivaz, whose schemes had sown", "Disorder through the realm from field to throne."]}, {"id": "C4.43.25", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Headsman, drag him from his place,", "And strip the veil of shame from off his face.”"]}, {"id": "C4.43.26", "lines": ["They sewed the ox-hide round his shoulders fast,", "Until his strength and vigor ebbed and passed."]}, {"id": "C4.43.27", "lines": ["The rawhide tore his flesh; he called for aid,", "And begged the Maker’s help, in pain, afraid."]}, {"id": "C4.43.28", "lines": ["When Afrasiab heard his brother’s cry,", "He rose in tears, in pain that would not die."]}, {"id": "C4.43.29", "lines": ["He swam until he found a place to stand,", "His feet at last upon the shallows’ sand."]}, {"id": "C4.43.30", "lines": ["He heard his brother’s cries; with every breath,", "The sight before him seemed far worse than death."]}, {"id": "C4.43.31", "lines": ["When Garsivaz beheld him in the wave,", "With blood-filled eyes and heart no hope could save,"]}, {"id": "C4.43.32", "lines": ["He cried, “O monarch, lord of every land,", "Crown of the chiefs and head of every band!"]}, {"id": "C4.43.33", "lines": ["Where are your customs, throne, and royal state?", "Your crown, your wealth, your armies once so great?"]}, {"id": "C4.43.34", "lines": ["Where is your knowledge, where your mighty hand?", "Where are the warriors who obeyed command?"]}, {"id": "C4.43.35", "lines": ["Where is your glory on the battlefield?", "Where are your cups, the joys your banquets yield?"]}, {"id": "C4.43.36", "lines": ["Must you now seek the waters in your need,", "With such a stubborn star to thwart your deed?”"]}, {"id": "C4.43.37", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab heard him, bowed his head,", "And wept into the lake in tears blood-red."]}, {"id": "C4.43.38", "lines": ["He answered, “Through the world I roamed and fled,", "Both openly and hidden, filled with dread."]}, {"id": "C4.43.39", "lines": ["I hoped to flee the evil of my fate;", "Now worse than evil falls upon my state."]}, {"id": "C4.43.40", "lines": ["My life has lost all worth beneath this blow;", "My soul is full of anguish, grief, and woe."]}, {"id": "C4.43.41", "lines": ["Fereydoon’s seed, a son of King Pashang,", "Now hangs within the jaws of a nahang."]}, {"id": "C4.43.42", "lines": ["They tear his skin with hide; yet none feels shame,", "Nor blushes at the torment of his frame.”"]}, {"id": "C4.44.1", "lines": ["While those two princes spoke of grief and shame,", "Hohm planned the snare to catch his royal game."]}, {"id": "C4.44.2", "lines": ["The holy man beheld the fallen king,", "And heard the brothers’ bitter mourning ring."]}, {"id": "C4.44.3", "lines": ["He took the island path and, drawing near,", "Saw Afrasiab’s distant form appear."]}, {"id": "C4.44.4", "lines": ["He loosed the ready kamand from his waist,", "And crouched and came with savage lion’s haste."]}, {"id": "C4.44.5", "lines": ["He cast the twisted kamand, deftly spread,", "And caught the fallen monarch by the head."]}, {"id": "C4.44.6", "lines": ["He dragged him from the lake upon the shore;", "His senses failed; his strength could serve no more."]}, {"id": "C4.44.7", "lines": ["The holy man took hold and hauled his prey", "In shame from water, bound him where he lay."]}, {"id": "C4.44.8", "lines": ["He gave him to the Shahs, then went away,", "As though the wind had borne him from the fray."]}, {"id": "C4.44.9", "lines": ["Then Khosrow came with sharpened sword in hand,", "His heart and mind obeying wrath’s command."]}, {"id": "C4.44.10", "lines": ["Then Afrasiab spoke, bereft of might:", "“I saw this very day in dreams at night."]}, {"id": "C4.44.11", "lines": ["Long has the turning sky passed overhead,", "And now the veil of fate is torn and shed."]}, {"id": "C4.44.12", "lines": ["O bitter seeker after vengeance, speak:", "Why slay your mother’s father, old and weak?”"]}, {"id": "C4.44.13", "lines": ["“O evildoer,” Kay Khosrow replied,", "“You merit blame and scorn on every side."]}, {"id": "C4.44.14", "lines": ["First, for your brother’s murder you must pay,", "Who never sought to bring the great dismay."]}, {"id": "C4.44.15", "lines": ["And then bright Nohzar, Iraj’s heir, you slew,", "Whose fame beneath the shining sun men knew."]}, {"id": "C4.44.16", "lines": ["You struck his neck beneath your sharpened blade,", "And shook the world with all the strife you made."]}, {"id": "C4.44.17", "lines": ["And third, my father, peerless in the fight:", "No horseman matched Siavash in his might."]}, {"id": "C4.44.18", "lines": ["You cut his head off like a sheep in shame,", "And rose beyond the sky in pride of name."]}, {"id": "C4.44.19", "lines": ["How could you slay my father and believe", "No evil day would come to make you grieve?"]}, {"id": "C4.44.20", "lines": ["You hastened into wickedness and sin,", "And now the fruit of evil closes in.”"]}, {"id": "C4.44.21", "lines": ["Afrasiab answered, “Wicked deeds bring shame;", "And slaughter clings in darkness to my name. "]}, {"id": "C4.44.22", "lines": ["O Shah, my daughter’s son, the deed is done;", "Now hear my tale before my course is run. "]}, {"id": "C4.44.23", "lines": ["Let me behold your mother while I live;", "Then hear the full account I have to give.”"]}, {"id": "C4.44.24", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Why set my life aflame,", "If you now seek my mother in your shame?"]}, {"id": "C4.44.25", "lines": ["My father guiltless fell; I was unborn,", "Yet by your wickedness the world was torn."]}, {"id": "C4.44.26", "lines": ["You struck a king for whom the crown and throne", "Of ivory wept with bitter, grieving moan."]}, {"id": "C4.44.27", "lines": ["Now is the day when God repays the ill;", "He pays ill back with ill, as justice will.”"]}, {"id": "C4.44.28", "lines": ["With Indian sword he struck the tyrant’s neck,", "And cast his lifeless body down, a wreck."]}, {"id": "C4.44.29", "lines": ["His face and white beard both were red with blood,", "While Garsivaz lost hope beside the flood."]}, {"id": "C4.44.30", "lines": ["His throne stood empty; now his reign was past;", "His days of royal greatness could not last."]}, {"id": "C4.44.31", "lines": ["His evil brought him evil; son, take heed:", "Seek not the key that frees an evil deed."]}, {"id": "C4.44.32", "lines": ["For evil always bears an evil yield,", "And evil men reap evil from their field."]}, {"id": "C4.44.33", "lines": ["A king endowed with God’s own grace and light", "Makes bonds and prison curb his wrathful might."]}, {"id": "C4.44.34", "lines": ["But when he sheds men’s blood, he falls in woe;", "The turning heavens strike their answering blow."]}, {"id": "C4.44.35", "lines": ["Thus once a Mobad warned the fierce Bahram:", "“Do not shed guiltless blood or cause them harm."]}, {"id": "C4.44.36", "lines": ["If you would keep your crown upon your brow,", "Be merciful; let wisdom guide you now."]}, {"id": "C4.44.37", "lines": ["Remember what the crown tells every head:", "‘Let reason and sound judgment there be wed.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.44.38", "lines": ["The cheeks of Garsivaz grew wan with fear,", "His heart was troubled as the end drew near."]}, {"id": "C4.44.39", "lines": ["They dragged him to the headsman in disgrace,", "In heavy bonds, with terror on his face."]}, {"id": "C4.44.40", "lines": ["With guards and executioners around,", "A fitting state for one so deeply bound."]}, {"id": "C4.44.41", "lines": ["In pain he came before the monarch’s view,", "And tears of blood ran down his lips of blue."]}, {"id": "C4.44.42", "lines": ["The king of kings recalled the fatal bowl,", "The khanjar and the deed that seared his soul."]}, {"id": "C4.44.43", "lines": ["He spoke of Tur and Salm and Fereydoon,", "And mighty Iraj, brought to death too soon."]}, {"id": "C4.44.44", "lines": ["He called the headsman, who came swift to heed,", "His naked sword prepared for bloody deed."]}, {"id": "C4.44.45", "lines": ["He cleft the culprit at the waist in two,", "While terror through the watching army flew."]}, {"id": "C4.44.46", "lines": ["They cast the brothers down, a mountain mound;", "On every side the people gathered round."]}, {"id": "C4.45.1", "lines": ["In haste, when God had granted his desire,", "He sped from lake to Azargashasp’s fire."]}, {"id": "C4.45.2", "lines": ["They scattered gold upon the fire and prayed,", "With murmured blessings, sacred homage paid."]}, {"id": "C4.45.3", "lines": ["One day and night they stood, and they implored", "Yazdan, the Guide of all, with prayers outpoured."]}, {"id": "C4.45.4", "lines": ["When Khosrow’s treasurer Zarasp came,", "He gave rich treasure to the sacred flame."]}, {"id": "C4.45.5", "lines": ["He robed the Mobadan and gave them gold,", "With silver and rich presents manifold."]}, {"id": "C4.45.6", "lines": ["The city’s poor, and those who earned their bread", "By their own toil, received the wealth he spread."]}, {"id": "C4.45.7", "lines": ["The Shah gave wealth as well with open hand,", "And justice brought new life to all the land."]}, {"id": "C4.45.8", "lines": ["He took his throne and kept his lips held still;", "The court stood open at the monarch’s will."]}, {"id": "C4.45.9", "lines": ["Dispatches then were written far and wide,", "To every famous chief on every side."]}, {"id": "C4.45.10", "lines": ["From west to east the royal letters sped,", "Wherever men of name and chieftains led:"]}, {"id": "C4.45.11", "lines": ["“The scimitar of Kay Khosrow has freed", "The earth from Dragon’s evil, root and seed."]}, {"id": "C4.45.12", "lines": ["The Shah, sustained by God’s victorious might,", "Has shunned all rest and kept his girdle tight."]}, {"id": "C4.45.13", "lines": ["The soul of Siavash now lives, renewed;", "The world’s broad face now bows to him, subdued.”"]}, {"id": "C4.45.14", "lines": ["The Shah gave gifts to those who served his throne,", "The poor, and all the folk he called his own."]}, {"id": "C4.45.15", "lines": ["The Shah turned to his nobles to declare:", "“You fortunate and honored lords, prepare:"]}, {"id": "C4.45.16", "lines": ["Bring wives and children from the town; your train", "Shall carry food and music to the plain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.45.17", "lines": ["The Shah, now free, gave all his mind to mirth;", "The warriors went forth, of royal birth."]}, {"id": "C4.45.18", "lines": ["The kin of Zarasp came, his noble line,", "To Azargashasp’s hall and holy shrine."]}, {"id": "C4.45.19", "lines": ["There forty days they stayed with Kay Kavus,", "With harp and wine and festive joys profuse."]}, {"id": "C4.45.20", "lines": ["When, like the sun, the new moon’s light was spread,", "A crown of gold upon a young king’s head,"]}, {"id": "C4.45.21", "lines": ["The nobles turned to Pars, with strife now ceased,", "From war and argument alike released."]}, {"id": "C4.45.22", "lines": ["In each town when they entered, crowds would meet", "Before the Shah, assembled at his seat."]}, {"id": "C4.45.23", "lines": ["The Shah undid his moneybags to share", "Their wealth; the pious prospered through his care."]}, {"id": "C4.46.1", "lines": ["With peace at last established in his mind,", "Kavus told God the thoughts his heart enshrined:"]}, {"id": "C4.46.2", "lines": ["“O You beyond all time, whose teachings show", "All goodness that our mortal hearts can know."]}, {"id": "C4.46.3", "lines": ["From You came fortune, majesty, and crown,", "The throne and diadem, and high renown."]}, {"id": "C4.46.4", "lines": ["No other man received such gifts from You:", "Such treasure, throne, and fame the whole world knew."]}, {"id": "C4.46.5", "lines": ["I asked that You would raise a man to take", "Revenge for Siavash, girded for his sake."]}, {"id": "C4.46.6", "lines": ["I saw my grandson, whom my heart held dear,", "Make my revenge his own, its purpose clear."]}, {"id": "C4.46.7", "lines": ["This prince outshines the kings of former days", "In stature, wisdom, and his glory’s blaze."]}, {"id": "C4.46.8", "lines": ["Three times fifty years have whitened my hair,", "From musk to camphor in the locks I bear."]}, {"id": "C4.46.9", "lines": ["My cypress frame is bent just like a bow;", "I bear it well if now my life must go.”"]}, {"id": "C4.46.10", "lines": ["A little while elapsed; then Kavus died,", "His deathless name lived on, both far and wide."]}, {"id": "C4.46.11", "lines": ["Khosrow approached the throne, then took his seat", "Upon the darkened dust beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "C4.46.12", "lines": ["Iran’s great nobles made their way on foot;", "Their finery and scents aside were put."]}, {"id": "C4.46.13", "lines": ["For two full weeks they mourned the monarch’s fall,", "In blue and black, the garments worn by all."]}, {"id": "C4.46.14", "lines": ["They built a lofty hall, ten kamands high,", "A royal tomb that towered toward the sky."]}, {"id": "C4.46.15", "lines": ["The nobles brought Dabiqi cloth to spread,", "With Roman brocade black around the dead."]}, {"id": "C4.46.16", "lines": ["The cloth held aloes, musk, and camphor white;", "They wrapped his body, dry, within it tight."]}, {"id": "C4.46.17", "lines": ["They placed him on an ivory throne, and made", "A crown of musk and camphor, on him laid."]}, {"id": "C4.46.18", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow had turned and left the room,", "They sealed the portal of that sleeping tomb."]}, {"id": "C4.46.19", "lines": ["No man again looked on Kay Kavus’s face;", "He rested from revenge and battle’s race."]}, {"id": "C4.46.20", "lines": ["Such is the custom of this mortal sphere:", "Why grieve? You cannot live forever here."]}, {"id": "C4.46.21", "lines": ["The sage, the mail-clad Pahlevan, the brave,", "Can never flee from death or from the grave."]}, {"id": "C4.46.22", "lines": ["For king or Zardosht, earth becomes the bed,", "A brick the pillow underneath his head."]}, {"id": "C4.46.23", "lines": ["Be joyful, but let measured pleasure guide;", "Then seek good fame, whose worth will long abide."]}, {"id": "C4.46.24", "lines": ["Yet know the world at last becomes your foe;", "Earth is your bed; dust clothes you down below."]}, {"id": "C4.46.25", "lines": ["Khosrow mourned his grandfather forty days,", "And turned from crown, from pleasure, state, and praise."]}, {"id": "C4.46.26", "lines": ["The next day on the ivory throne he shone,", "And wore the crown of kingship as his own."]}, {"id": "C4.46.27", "lines": ["The army gathered at the royal gate,", "With gold-capped nobles, mighty men of state."]}, {"id": "C4.46.28", "lines": ["They hailed his kingship, praising his renown,", "And scattered precious jewels upon his crown."]}, {"id": "C4.46.29", "lines": ["The world rejoiced to hail him as its lord;", "He took the throne amid their glad accord."]}, {"id": "C4.46.30", "lines": ["For sixty years his rule endured, and all", "The world remained obedient to his call."]}, {"id": "C4.47.1", "lines": ["The Shah’s great soul grew troubled and intent,", "As he weighed kingship’s course and what it meant."]}, {"id": "C4.47.2", "lines": ["He said, “From Hind and Chin to distant Rum,", "Through every settled land where men find room,"]}, {"id": "C4.47.3", "lines": ["From west to east, through desert, mount, and main,", "I cleared the earth of every hostile reign."]}, {"id": "C4.47.4", "lines": ["The throne and rule of might are wholly mine;", "No foe remains to shake my royal line."]}, {"id": "C4.47.5", "lines": ["Full many days have passed above my head,", "With all the world now free from fear and dread."]}, {"id": "C4.47.6", "lines": ["And God has granted all for which I pled,", "Though all my heart toward vengeance had been led."]}, {"id": "C4.47.7", "lines": ["Yet let me not grow arrogant in soul,", "Nor let Ahriman’s creed my thoughts control,"]}, {"id": "C4.47.8", "lines": ["Lest I, like Zahhak or Jamshid, come to shame,", "And share with Tur and Salm an evil name."]}, {"id": "C4.47.9", "lines": ["From Kavus comes one branch of my descent;", "The other, Turan, on deception bent."]}, {"id": "C4.47.10", "lines": ["Like Kavus or Afrasiab, whose sleep", "Held blood and crookedness in visions deep,"]}, {"id": "C4.47.11", "lines": ["I might turn thankless to Yazdan of all,", "And on my shining soul let terror fall."]}, {"id": "C4.47.12", "lines": ["If I should turn to evil, leave the right,", "God’s farr would part from me and take its flight."]}, {"id": "C4.47.13", "lines": ["And when I pass at last into the gloom,", "My crown and head shall molder in the tomb."]}, {"id": "C4.47.14", "lines": ["I leave an evil name when life is past,", "And face an evil end, by God outcast."]}, {"id": "C4.47.15", "lines": ["This face of mine, this color in my cheek,", "Will fade; my bones will dust and darkness seek."]}, {"id": "C4.47.16", "lines": ["Ingratitude will claim the good I won;", "My soul will darken when this life is done;"]}, {"id": "C4.47.17", "lines": ["Another takes my crown and royal seat,", "And tramples all my fortune with his feet."]}, {"id": "C4.47.18", "lines": ["A name of shame shall be all men will know.", "My labors’ roses into thorns will grow."]}, {"id": "C4.47.19", "lines": ["Since I avenged my father’s murdered head,", "And made the world grow just beneath my tread,"]}, {"id": "C4.47.20", "lines": ["And slew the wicked men who dared withstand", "The Holy One and justice in the land,"]}, {"id": "C4.47.21", "lines": ["In settled lands and ruins, all have known", "And read the charter of my royal throne."]}, {"id": "C4.47.22", "lines": ["The mighty of the world obey my reign,", "Each lord, though rich and crowned, in each domain."]}, {"id": "C4.47.23", "lines": ["Thanks be to God for farr and all it brings,", "For favoring stars, and for my feet and wings."]}, {"id": "C4.47.24", "lines": ["Now I deem better that I should depart,", "To God in glory, with a faithful heart."]}, {"id": "C4.47.25", "lines": ["May God’s unseen attendant, while still blessed,", "Convey my soul to where the righteous rest."]}, {"id": "C4.47.26", "lines": ["The Kayanian crown and throne must fade;", "No earthly splendor can escape the shade."]}, {"id": "C4.47.27", "lines": ["No man can gain more honor or delight,", "More peace or goodness, cups or royal might."]}, {"id": "C4.47.28", "lines": ["I have heard and seen the world’s hidden way,", "Its good and ill, concealed or on display."]}, {"id": "C4.47.29", "lines": ["Yet farmer, lord, and king must share one breath:", "For all alike there waits the road to death.”"]}, {"id": "C4.47.30", "lines": ["The Shah commanded him who kept the gate,", "“Turn back all those who seek me, small or great."]}, {"id": "C4.47.31", "lines": ["Refuse them gently; let your words be kind,", "And leave all anger and harsh speech behind.”"]}, {"id": "C4.47.32", "lines": ["He closed the court and left, his belt untied;", "With loud lament the grieving monarch cried."]}, {"id": "C4.47.33", "lines": ["He bathed his head and body; then he sought", "God’s path in prayer, by wisdom’s candle taught."]}, {"id": "C4.47.34", "lines": ["He donned a new white robe and went to pray,", "With hope that filled his heart along the way."]}, {"id": "C4.47.35", "lines": ["He walked to prayer, his secret cause to plead", "Before the holy Judge who heard his need."]}, {"id": "C4.47.36", "lines": ["“O You beyond the purest soul, whose might", "Brought forth dark earth and fire’s burning light,"]}, {"id": "C4.47.37", "lines": ["Protect me, grant me wisdom, guide my way;", "Draw all my power from crookedness away."]}, {"id": "C4.47.38", "lines": ["While I have life, I praise Your holy name,", "And strive for greater goodness as my aim."]}, {"id": "C4.47.39", "lines": ["Forgive my sins, and grant my mind the light", "To tell the evil from the good and right."]}, {"id": "C4.47.40", "lines": ["Turn evil fortune from my soul, I pray;", "And drive the scheming Div’s deceits away,"]}, {"id": "C4.47.41", "lines": ["Lest, like Kavus, Zahhak, and Jamshid, I", "Beneath desire’s oppression helpless lie."]}, {"id": "C4.47.42", "lines": ["When truth’s own door is closed against my face,", "Deceit and weakness flourish in its place."]}, {"id": "C4.47.43", "lines": ["Turn from me all the Div’s dark power and art,", "So it may not corrupt my soul and heart."]}, {"id": "C4.47.44", "lines": ["Preserve this path, this course on which I stand;", "Bring my soul safely to the righteous land.”"]}, {"id": "C4.47.45", "lines": ["One week he prayed by day and through the night;", "His body stood; his soul had taken flight."]}, {"id": "C4.47.46", "lines": ["At week’s end Khosrow’s strength had ebbed away;", "He could no longer stand in place to pray."]}, {"id": "C4.47.47", "lines": ["He left his place of worship on day eight,", "And swiftly took the throne of royal state."]}, {"id": "C4.48.1", "lines": ["The Pahlevans throughout the royal court", "Marveled that grief had cut his pleasures short."]}, {"id": "C4.48.2", "lines": ["Diverse were thoughts among those men of fame,", "And each one wondered where the sorrow came."]}, {"id": "C4.48.3", "lines": ["When that illustrious Shah resumed his state,", "The chamberlain came forward to the gate."]}, {"id": "C4.48.4", "lines": ["He bade them draw the door-curtain aside,", "And let the waiting chiefs be brought inside."]}, {"id": "C4.48.5", "lines": ["The lion-like chiefs who made great tuskers fall", "With folded arms advanced into the hall."]}, {"id": "C4.48.6", "lines": ["Tus, Gudarz, gallant Giv, and Gorgin came,", "Rohham the Lion, Bijan known to fame."]}, {"id": "C4.48.7", "lines": ["They saw the Shah, bowed low with reverence due,", "Then told him what their inward thoughts held true:"]}, {"id": "C4.48.8", "lines": ["“O Shah, brave hero, judge of great and small,", "O ruler of the world, chief over all,"]}, {"id": "C4.48.9", "lines": ["No Shah like you the ivory throne has known;", "The sun and crown draw light from you alone."]}, {"id": "C4.48.10", "lines": ["You honor steed and jowshan, sword so bright", "And give Azargashasp a fresher light."]}, {"id": "C4.48.11", "lines": ["You fear no toil, nor boast about your treasure;", "Your labors far exceed your wealth in measure."]}, {"id": "C4.48.12", "lines": ["We Pahlevans are all your servants true,", "Our lives are quickened by the sight of you."]}, {"id": "C4.48.13", "lines": ["You crushed your enemies into the dust;", "No foe remains to trouble royal trust."]}, {"id": "C4.48.14", "lines": ["All troops and treasures of the world are yours;", "Wherever you set foot, your toil endures."]}, {"id": "C4.48.15", "lines": ["We know no reason why the Shah’s high mind", "Has grown so dark, so inwardly confined."]}, {"id": "C4.48.16", "lines": ["This is your season to enjoy your worth,", "Not sink in sorrow while you rule the earth."]}, {"id": "C4.48.17", "lines": ["If any fault of ours has grieved the king,", "Then speak, and we shall remedy the thing."]}, {"id": "C4.48.18", "lines": ["Our cheeks shall flush with blood, our hearts with fire,", "And serve the Shah in all that you desire."]}, {"id": "C4.48.19", "lines": ["Or if some foe in secret brings you woe,", "Reveal his name, and we shall meet that foe."]}, {"id": "C4.48.20", "lines": ["All kings who wore the crown held honor high", "In throne and crown through this: to kill or die."]}, {"id": "C4.48.21", "lines": ["With warriors’ helmets fitted to each head,", "They took men’s heads, or gave their own instead."]}, {"id": "C4.48.22", "lines": ["Inform us, Shah, what secret grief you hold;", "Then let us plan with counsel clear and bold.”"]}, {"id": "C4.48.23", "lines": ["The noble Shah replied, “O chiefs of fame,", "O Pahlevans of high and honored name,"]}, {"id": "C4.48.24", "lines": ["No foe in all the world disturbs my rest;", "No loss of treasure weighs upon my breast."]}, {"id": "C4.48.25", "lines": ["You chiefs have brought no trouble to my heart,", "Nor have you failed in any loyal part."]}, {"id": "C4.48.26", "lines": ["When I avenged my father on his foes,", "Through justice, faith, the world’s fair garden rose."]}, {"id": "C4.48.27", "lines": ["No handful of the darkened earth remained", "Where my victorious signet had not reigned."]}, {"id": "C4.48.28", "lines": ["Return your swords now to their sheaths in peace;", "Take up the goblet; let all fighting cease."]}, {"id": "C4.48.29", "lines": ["Instead of bowstrings, make the flutes resound;", "Bring harps and wine, with perfume all around."]}, {"id": "C4.48.30", "lines": ["For one full week I stood before God’s sight,", "With pure intent, in thought by day and night."]}, {"id": "C4.48.31", "lines": ["I bear a hidden longing in my breast,", "And ask the Maker to fulfill my quest."]}, {"id": "C4.48.32", "lines": ["When He grants this and makes my spirit glad,", "I shall reveal the hidden wish I had."]}, {"id": "C4.48.33", "lines": ["You too should praise Yazdan, and thanks afford", "For all the joy that He on you has poured."]}, {"id": "C4.48.34", "lines": ["Praise Him, who showed the path we follow still,", "And grants dominion over good and ill."]}, {"id": "C4.48.35", "lines": ["Rejoice with me, and keep your doubts at bay;", "Then turn to joy and drive dark thoughts away."]}, {"id": "C4.48.36", "lines": ["Know that this turning sky, so briefly ours,", "Distinguishes no king from lesser powers."]}, {"id": "C4.48.37", "lines": ["It cherishes alike the young and old;", "Its justice and its tyranny behold.”"]}, {"id": "C4.48.38", "lines": ["The Pahlevans withdrew, their hearts distressed,", "And cried aloud, by bitter grief oppressed."]}, {"id": "C4.48.39", "lines": ["He told the chamberlain, who stood on guard,", "“Sit past the curtain; keep the entrance barred."]}, {"id": "C4.48.40", "lines": ["Admit no stranger, friend, or kin at all;", "Let none approach me in the palace hall.”"]}, {"id": "C4.48.41", "lines": ["At night he went in solitude to pray,", "Before the Judge, his secret words to say:"]}, {"id": "C4.48.42", "lines": ["“O You beyond all height, whose gifts increase", "All purity and greatness without cease,"]}, {"id": "C4.48.43", "lines": ["Be You my guide to heaven, that I may", "Pass from this lodging, built for brief delay."]}, {"id": "C4.48.44", "lines": ["My heart has never turned from truth and right;", "My soul has found the home of hearts of light.”"]}, {"id": "C4.49.1", "lines": ["When one full week had passed and Kay Khosrow", "Still hid his face, much troubled talk did flow."]}, {"id": "C4.49.2", "lines": ["The Pahlevans assembled in a band,", "The lords and sages, wisest in the land."]}, {"id": "C4.49.3", "lines": ["Gudarz and Tus, brave Nohzar’s son, then came;", "They weighed just deeds and acts deserving blame."]}, {"id": "C4.49.4", "lines": ["They spoke of kings who ruled the world of old,", "Some serving God, some tyrannous and bold."]}, {"id": "C4.49.5", "lines": ["They told the stories of the great of earth,", "The nobles, sages, men of proven worth."]}, {"id": "C4.49.6", "lines": ["Gudarz then said to Giv, “O favored one,", "Servant of crown and throne beneath the sun,"]}, {"id": "C4.49.7", "lines": ["For Iran’s sake you bore long toil, and left", "Your kin and homeland, waiting and bereft."]}, {"id": "C4.49.8", "lines": ["A bitter matter now confronts us all,", "Not one that any man should reckon small."]}, {"id": "C4.49.9", "lines": ["You must set out for Zabul without stay,", "To Kabul send a horseman on his way."]}, {"id": "C4.49.10", "lines": ["Tell Zal and Rostam: ‘From God’s path of light", "Our Shah has turned and strayed into the night."]}, {"id": "C4.49.11", "lines": ["He closed the royal door against the great,", "And surely sits with Divs, and holds debate."]}, {"id": "C4.49.12", "lines": ["We offered pleas and supplications true,", "Appealing to the justice that we knew."]}, {"id": "C4.49.13", "lines": ["He heard our pleas yet answered none we made;", "His head was full of wind, his heart dismayed."]}, {"id": "C4.49.14", "lines": ["We fear that he, like Shah Kavus, may stray,", "And that the Divs will make him lose the way."]}, {"id": "C4.49.15", "lines": ["You two are Pahlevans more wise than all,", "Whose counsel bears great weight in court and hall."]}, {"id": "C4.49.16", "lines": ["Bring men from Ghanooj, Danbar, Morgh, and Mai,", "And Kabul’s sages skilled to read the sky."]}, {"id": "C4.49.17", "lines": ["Bring Zabul’s men of pure and prudent mind,", "The wise and worthy, all that you can find."]}, {"id": "C4.49.18", "lines": ["Bring all these men together, then proceed", "To Iran with the counselors we need."]}, {"id": "C4.49.19", "lines": ["The realm is full of rumors, fear, and speech,", "Since audience lies beyond the nobles’ reach."]}, {"id": "C4.49.20", "lines": ["Now that all other means have failed outright,", "We look to Zal to bring this dark to light.’”"]}, {"id": "C4.49.21", "lines": ["When Giv had heard, he chose some valiant men,", "And rode in anger, sunk in thought again."]}, {"id": "C4.49.22", "lines": ["He journeyed on toward Sistan’s famous land,", "And reached where Zal and Rostam held command."]}, {"id": "C4.49.23", "lines": ["He told them all the strange events he knew,", "The things that he had heard and witnessed too."]}, {"id": "C4.49.24", "lines": ["Then Zal grew sad and spoke in deep distress:", "“Our lot is joined with pain and bitterness.”"]}, {"id": "C4.49.25", "lines": ["He said to Rostam, “Call the wise who read", "The stars, summon Mobadan whom we need."]}, {"id": "C4.49.26", "lines": ["From Zabul summon them, from Kabul too,", "To share the road with us the journey through.”"]}, {"id": "C4.49.27", "lines": ["They gathered round Dastan to make their way", "From Zabul to Iran without delay."]}, {"id": "C4.49.28", "lines": ["For seven days the Shah stood fast in prayer;", "The eighth day’s sun shone in the morning air."]}, {"id": "C4.49.29", "lines": ["The chamberlain drew back the curtain’s fold;", "The Shah sat high upon his throne of gold."]}, {"id": "C4.49.30", "lines": ["Then Pahlevans and Mobadan gathered near,", "With prudent nobles, counselors sincere."]}, {"id": "C4.49.31", "lines": ["By royal custom, he assigned each place,", "And bade each loyal chief receive his grace."]}, {"id": "C4.49.32", "lines": ["Before the monarch stood that gathered train;", "For long they stood, those wise men of his reign."]}, {"id": "C4.49.33", "lines": ["Yet none of those renowned and faithful men", "Would sit; they kept their arms still folded then."]}, {"id": "C4.49.34", "lines": ["They spoke: “O Shah of Mobadan, just, bright,", "Whose lofty soul is filled with wisdom’s light,"]}, {"id": "C4.49.35", "lines": ["All royal power and farr belong to you,", "From sun to fish’s back, the whole world through."]}, {"id": "C4.49.36", "lines": ["Your shining soul knows all that comes to be;", "Through deeds and wisdom, all is clear to see."]}, {"id": "C4.49.37", "lines": ["We stand as servants under your bright gaze,", "Your Pahlevans, whose counsel guides your ways."]}, {"id": "C4.49.38", "lines": ["Tell us what fault has made you close the door;", "What have we done to see your face no more?"]}, {"id": "C4.49.39", "lines": ["Much time has passed, and still we wait in pain;", "Our hearts are filled with grief beneath your reign."]}, {"id": "C4.49.40", "lines": ["Reveal this secret to your chiefs, we pray,", "Your frontier lords, who now have lost their way."]}, {"id": "C4.49.41", "lines": ["We shall turn seas to land at your command,", "And turn to musk earth’s cloak of soil and sand."]}, {"id": "C4.49.42", "lines": ["We shall wrench mountains out and bring them low;", "Our khanjars through our foes’ hearts then shall go."]}, {"id": "C4.49.43", "lines": ["If treasure holds the cure for all your pain,", "No grief through gold or silver shall remain."]}, {"id": "C4.49.44", "lines": ["We keep our watch upon your treasure still,", "And weep in anguish for your hidden ill.”"]}, {"id": "C4.49.45", "lines": ["The Shah who ruled the world gave this reply:", "“I need the Pahlevans, as in times gone by."]}, {"id": "C4.49.46", "lines": ["Yet neither strength of arm nor men nor gold", "Are causes of the grief my heart must hold."]}, {"id": "C4.49.47", "lines": ["No foe has risen anywhere in sight,", "To trouble me or challenge royal right."]}, {"id": "C4.49.48", "lines": ["One ardent longing governs all my heart;", "And from that wish it never will depart."]}, {"id": "C4.49.49", "lines": ["Through darkest night until the dawn grows bright,", "I place my hope in gaining that delight."]}, {"id": "C4.49.50", "lines": ["When it is granted, I shall speak outright,", "And bring my hidden secret into light."]}, {"id": "C4.49.51", "lines": ["Return in joy, with fortune on your side;", "Let no dark thoughts within your hearts abide.”"]}, {"id": "C4.49.52", "lines": ["The noble Pahlevans, oppressed by pain,", "Called blessings on the Shah and on his reign."]}, {"id": "C4.50.1", "lines": ["As soon as they had gone upon their way,", "He bade the court be screened without delay."]}, {"id": "C4.50.2", "lines": ["He sat and wept, his face a lapis blue,", "And writhed in grief as anguish pierced him through."]}, {"id": "C4.50.3", "lines": ["The Shah stood humbly before God Most High,", "Entreating Him to guide his inward eye."]}, {"id": "C4.50.4", "lines": ["He said, “Creator of the skies, whose light", "Makes goodness, justice, love burn clear and bright,"]}, {"id": "C4.50.5", "lines": ["This sovereignty can bring me no delight,", "If I am not found pleasing in Your sight."]}, {"id": "C4.50.6", "lines": ["Much good I did, and much that has been ill;", "Grant me in Paradise a dwelling still.”"]}, {"id": "C4.50.7", "lines": ["Five weeks he stood and cried by night and day,", "Before Yazdan who shows the hidden way."]}, {"id": "C4.50.8", "lines": ["One night the Shah, from suffering, could not sleep,", "Until the moon climbed up the azure steep."]}, {"id": "C4.50.9", "lines": ["Then sleep came on, though wisdom still was bright,", "His mind awake within the dream of night."]}, {"id": "C4.50.10", "lines": ["He dreamed that blessed Soroush, drawing near,", "Spoke secretly a message in his ear."]}, {"id": "C4.50.11", "lines": ["“O Shah, whom stars and fortune claim their own,", "You who have handled armlet, crown, and throne,"]}, {"id": "C4.50.12", "lines": ["Now swiftly leave the world and do not stay;", "All you have sought is yours; be on your way."]}, {"id": "C4.50.13", "lines": ["Abide no longer in this world of care;", "A place beside the pure Judge you will share."]}, {"id": "C4.50.14", "lines": ["Let someone else possess this passing throne;", "Give worthy men the treasure that you own."]}, {"id": "C4.50.15", "lines": ["Enrich the poor; let gifts to them increase,", "And bring your people happiness and peace."]}, {"id": "C4.50.16", "lines": ["Who flees this dragon’s breath escapes the grip", "Of dire affliction’s claws that tear and rip."]}, {"id": "C4.50.17", "lines": ["Each man who bore your hardships had in view", "The wealth he hoped to gain by serving you."]}, {"id": "C4.50.18", "lines": ["You will not tarry long upon this earth;", "Bestow your wealth on men of proven worth."]}, {"id": "C4.50.19", "lines": ["Choose for the throne a king whose rule is sound;", "Let him not hurt an ant upon the ground."]}, {"id": "C4.50.20", "lines": ["When you have given the world away, depart;", "The time of summons presses on your heart.”"]}, {"id": "C4.50.21", "lines": ["He woke from troubled sleep in pouring sweat;", "His place of prayer lay all about him wet."]}, {"id": "C4.50.22", "lines": ["He wept, his face pressed down upon the ground,", "And thanked the Omnipotent, whose grace he found."]}, {"id": "C4.50.23", "lines": ["He said, “If I depart this very hour,", "God has fulfilled my wish through His great power.”"]}, {"id": "C4.50.24", "lines": ["He sat again upon the throne; he bore", "A robe so fresh that none had worn before."]}, {"id": "C4.50.25", "lines": ["He donned it, on the ivory throne sat down,", "Without his armlet, gorz, or royal crown."]}, {"id": "C4.51.1", "lines": ["Then, at the week’s turn, Zal and Rostam came,", "With troubled hearts and grief like hidden flame."]}, {"id": "C4.51.2", "lines": ["Iran’s men heard of them and quickened pace,", "Heartbroken too, to meet them face to face."]}, {"id": "C4.51.3", "lines": ["Rostam, Zal, and learned Mobadan appeared,", "Wise men whose many talents were revered."]}, {"id": "C4.51.4", "lines": ["The kinsmen of Zarasp urged on their steeds,", "And hastened forth to serve the hour’s needs."]}, {"id": "C4.51.5", "lines": ["The nobles with their golden boots advanced,", "With Tus, whose Kaveh banner waved and danced."]}, {"id": "C4.51.6", "lines": ["Great Rostam waited; Gudarz, when they met,", "Wept bitter tears; with grief his cheeks were wet."]}, {"id": "C4.51.7", "lines": ["The faces of the troops were pale with woe;", "All hearts were seared with care for Kay Khosrow."]}, {"id": "C4.51.8", "lines": ["They told Zal and Rostam, “The Shah has strayed;", "He follows Iblis’ words, by them betrayed."]}, {"id": "C4.51.9", "lines": ["His hall is dark; no man by day or night", "Has seen the king or come within his sight."]}, {"id": "C4.51.10", "lines": ["The court is opened only once a week;", "We enter, but our hearts can scarcely speak."]}, {"id": "C4.51.11", "lines": ["Khosrow is not the man whom you once knew,", "When bright of soul, he kept all fortune true."]}, {"id": "C4.51.12", "lines": ["The straight-stemmed cypress now is bent with pain;", "The red rose wears the quince’s yellow stain."]}, {"id": "C4.51.13", "lines": ["We do not know if evil eyes have seen", "And made his rosy face lose living sheen,"]}, {"id": "C4.51.14", "lines": ["Or if Iran’s own fortune has grown dim,", "Or if the stars have brought decay to him.”"]}, {"id": "C4.51.15", "lines": ["Brave Zal replied, “He may be wearied sore", "Of crown and throne and all their royal store."]}, {"id": "C4.51.16", "lines": ["Both health and sickness come to every king;", "Distress and gladness turn on fortune’s wing."]}, {"id": "C4.51.17", "lines": ["Let not such grief your hearts and souls oppress;", "It turns a joyful spirit to distress."]}, {"id": "C4.51.18", "lines": ["We shall speak wisely and our counsel give,", "And by that counsel make his fortune live.”"]}, {"id": "C4.51.19", "lines": ["The travelers hastened to the royal gate,", "Where all who sought the king now stood to wait."]}, {"id": "C4.51.20", "lines": ["They raised the curtain, letting each man through,", "Each in his rank, with all the honor due."]}, {"id": "C4.51.21", "lines": ["They entered gladly through the royal hall:", "Zal, Rostam, Tus, and Gudarz, one and all,"]}, {"id": "C4.51.22", "lines": ["Then Gorgin, Bijan, brave Gostaham came,", "With warriors and chiefs of worthy fame."]}, {"id": "C4.51.23", "lines": ["The king of kings, when he beheld Zal’s face,", "And heard brave Rostam’s voice within that place,"]}, {"id": "C4.51.24", "lines": ["Rose, deep in thought, and held his hand out straight;", "Still standing, he inquired about their state."]}, {"id": "C4.51.25", "lines": ["From Zabul, Danbar, Ghanooj, Kabul too,", "He gave those learned men the honor due."]}, {"id": "C4.51.26", "lines": ["He greeted each with courtesy and care,", "And ranked them by the honor each should bear."]}, {"id": "C4.51.27", "lines": ["To Iran’s chiefs he gave their fitting place;", "Then Zal bowed low and spoke with solemn grace:"]}, {"id": "C4.51.28", "lines": ["“Live happily while month and year endure;", "May all your royal fortune stand secure."]}, {"id": "C4.51.29", "lines": ["Of all the famous rulers of renown,", "From Manuchehr to Kay Qobad’s crown,"]}, {"id": "C4.51.30", "lines": ["And Zav, Tahmasp’s son, and Kavus too,", "Those mighty kings whose steps good fortune knew,"]}, {"id": "C4.51.31", "lines": ["And Siavash, who was to me a son,", "In height and grace beneath the shining sun,"]}, {"id": "C4.51.32", "lines": ["None have I seen with wisdom such as yours,", "Such stature and the farr that God outpours."]}, {"id": "C4.51.33", "lines": ["May you reign ever, just and brave and wise,", "With love and victory beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "C4.51.34", "lines": ["You filled the world with justice everywhere;", "May you be safe, and joy and triumph share."]}, {"id": "C4.51.35", "lines": ["What king is not as dust beneath your feet?", "Your name is nush-daru no bane can beat."]}, {"id": "C4.51.36", "lines": ["Unwelcome tidings reached me from the throne,", "So I made haste, and brought men of my own."]}, {"id": "C4.51.37", "lines": ["One came from Iran, saying, ‘Our great king", "Has given orders for this troubling thing:"]}, {"id": "C4.51.38", "lines": ["The chamberlain must keep the curtain drawn;", "The Shah’s face from his people is withdrawn.’"]}, {"id": "C4.51.39", "lines": ["For Iran’s grief I sped, as eagles fly,", "As ships on water swiftly hasten by,"]}, {"id": "C4.51.40", "lines": ["To ask the monarch of the world today", "What secret matter turns his heart away."]}, {"id": "C4.51.41", "lines": ["The readers of the stars, the chiefs renowned,", "The foremost men in every land I found,"]}, {"id": "C4.51.42", "lines": ["From Ghanooj, Danbar, Morgh, and Mai they came,", "With Indian tables, seeking heaven’s aim:"]}, {"id": "C4.51.43", "lines": ["To learn why heaven turned its love away", "From Iran, leaving hearts in such dismay."]}, {"id": "C4.51.44", "lines": ["By three things, every task can flourish well,", "And on the throne no fault or blemish dwell:"]}, {"id": "C4.51.45", "lines": ["Treasure, labor and men of proven might;", "Without these three, rule has no fame or light."]}, {"id": "C4.51.46", "lines": ["The fourth: to God, Yazdan of light, give praise,", "And offer prayers to Him through all your days."]}, {"id": "C4.51.47", "lines": ["He comes to help His servants in distress,", "And holds back those who threaten to oppress."]}, {"id": "C4.51.48", "lines": ["Much wealth we give the poor, although we know", "How precious are the riches we bestow."]}, {"id": "C4.51.49", "lines": ["May God restore your soul to shining light,", "And arm your mind with wisdom’s guarding might.”"]}, {"id": "C4.52.1", "lines": ["Khosrow heard Zal, and gave him answer due:", "“O wise and honored elder, kind and true,"]}, {"id": "C4.52.2", "lines": ["Most noble are your counsels and your speech;", "Their wisdom stands where loyal hearts can reach."]}, {"id": "C4.52.3", "lines": ["Since Manuchehr first held the royal throne,", "Your kindness and your grace have long been known."]}, {"id": "C4.52.4", "lines": ["And Rostam, with his elephantine frame,", "The Kayanian pillar crowned with fame,"]}, {"id": "C4.52.5", "lines": ["Raised Siavash throughout his childhood days,", "And showed him kindness in a thousand ways."]}, {"id": "C4.52.6", "lines": ["The troops that saw brave Rostam face to face,", "His gorz, his helm, broad breast, and lion grace,"]}, {"id": "C4.52.7", "lines": ["Have often fled before the fight began,", "And scattered bows and arrows as they ran."]}, {"id": "C4.52.8", "lines": ["He helped my ancestors avenge their wrong,", "Their glorious guide and minister for long."]}, {"id": "C4.52.9", "lines": ["Your name and toils would live in what I told,", "A hundred generations, never old."]}, {"id": "C4.52.10", "lines": ["If all your noble deeds were brought to light,", "My praise would still fall short of what is right."]}, {"id": "C4.52.11", "lines": ["Now as to what you ask about my state,", "My closed court, grief, and solitary fate,"]}, {"id": "C4.52.12", "lines": ["I shall explain my purpose from the start,", "And leave no doubt concealed within my heart."]}, {"id": "C4.52.13", "lines": ["To God I turned with one desire alone,", "And spurned the world, with all that was my own."]}, {"id": "C4.52.14", "lines": ["I stand without a pause in earnest prayer,", "Before the Judge, who hears the soul’s despair."]}, {"id": "C4.52.15", "lines": ["I asked Him to forgive my sins outright,", "And make my darkened path grow clear with light;"]}, {"id": "C4.52.16", "lines": ["To take me from this transient world below,", "And end the earthly joys and toils I know;"]}, {"id": "C4.52.17", "lines": ["To grant me room in Paradise to stay,", "And guide me on the good and righteous way."]}, {"id": "C4.52.18", "lines": ["I must not leave the right and turn aside,", "As former Shahs were bent by power and pride."]}, {"id": "C4.52.19", "lines": ["I have attained my wish; I must depart,", "And now must ready both my mind and heart."]}, {"id": "C4.52.20", "lines": ["As dawn drew near, at last my eyes found sleep;", "Blessed Soroush came from God through stillness deep,"]}, {"id": "C4.52.21", "lines": ["And said, ‘Prepare yourself; your time is near;", "Your sleeplessness and sorrow finish here.’"]}, {"id": "C4.52.22", "lines": ["My court is ended; all its cares are past:", "Realm, crown, throne, belt: all these aside I cast.”"]}, {"id": "C4.52.23", "lines": ["The Pahlevans were troubled by his word;", "No man knew how to answer what he heard."]}, {"id": "C4.52.24", "lines": ["When Zal had heard, his anger mounted high;", "From deep within him rose a chilling sigh."]}, {"id": "C4.52.25", "lines": ["He said before Iran’s chiefs, “This course is bad;", "No trace remains of wisdom that he had."]}, {"id": "C4.52.26", "lines": ["Since first I bound my belt the throne to serve,", "From Kayanian kings I did not swerve;"]}, {"id": "C4.52.27", "lines": ["No king I served has ever spoken so;", "We must not hide what all of us now know."]}, {"id": "C4.52.28", "lines": ["We cannot set aside what he has said,", "Nor yield assent where such strange words have led."]}, {"id": "C4.52.29", "lines": ["Perhaps the Div has counseled him apart,", "And turned from God the current of his heart."]}, {"id": "C4.52.30", "lines": ["Hushang and Fereydoon, upright and great,", "Would never thus abandon crown and state."]}, {"id": "C4.52.31", "lines": ["I shall speak truth, though life itself may end;", "No fear shall make my honest purpose bend.”"]}, {"id": "C4.52.32", "lines": ["Iran’s chiefs answered, “Never have we heard", "A king pronounce so strange and grave a word."]}, {"id": "C4.52.33", "lines": ["We stand with you in all you choose to say;", "May he not lose the proper royal way.”"]}, {"id": "C4.53.1", "lines": ["Zal heard those words, then rose before Khosrow:", "“O righteous Shah, now hear what age may know."]}, {"id": "C4.53.2", "lines": ["Hear what an elder of the world would tell;", "If I give crooked counsel, then rebel."]}, {"id": "C4.53.3", "lines": ["Though honest speech is bitter, it can bar", "The door of ruin, visible from far."]}, {"id": "C4.53.4", "lines": ["Take therefore in good part the words I say,", "Before this noble group of men today."]}, {"id": "C4.53.5", "lines": ["In Turan you were born, and there you dwelt;", "You drank its water, there its comforts felt."]}, {"id": "C4.53.6", "lines": ["One forebear, Afrasiab, knew no dream", "But sorcery and every magic scheme."]}, {"id": "C4.53.7", "lines": ["Kavus, your other forebear, harsh and old,", "Had furrowed cheeks, a heart that schemes controlled."]}, {"id": "C4.53.8", "lines": ["From west to east, all greatness and all power,", "The crown and royal belt were his that hour."]}, {"id": "C4.53.9", "lines": ["He wished to pass beyond the heavens’ height,", "And trace the stars through every circling flight."]}, {"id": "C4.53.10", "lines": ["Though I advised him often, frank and clear,", "And spoke these bitter warnings for his ear,"]}, {"id": "C4.53.11", "lines": ["He profited by none of my advice;", "I turned away in sorrow from his vice."]}, {"id": "C4.53.12", "lines": ["He soared, then fell down headlong to the dust,", "But holy God preserved his life in trust."]}, {"id": "C4.53.13", "lines": ["He came back thankless, dust upon his head,", "His heart possessed by fear and filled with dread."]}, {"id": "C4.53.14", "lines": ["A hundred thousand swordsmen formed your train,", "In jowshans, ox-head gorzes, on campaign."]}, {"id": "C4.53.15", "lines": ["A lion roused and terrible in might,", "You ranked your men on Khwarazm’s plain for fight."]}, {"id": "C4.53.16", "lines": ["You rushed before your troops into the strife,", "On foot, to face Pashang, and staked your life."]}, {"id": "C4.53.17", "lines": ["The world had other champions who could go;", "Why risk your head for vengeance on the foe?"]}, {"id": "C4.53.18", "lines": ["Had he prevailed, then Afrasiab’s train", "Would march on Iran, ravaging the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.53.19", "lines": ["Our wives and little children he would take;", "No man would rise for vengeance for their sake."]}, {"id": "C4.53.20", "lines": ["God saved you from his grasp and from his wrath;", "He showed you mercy and confirmed your path;"]}, {"id": "C4.53.21", "lines": ["You slew the feared and thankless one who erred,", "Who spurned the Almighty Judge and holy word."]}, {"id": "C4.53.22", "lines": ["But when I said, ‘Now peace should crown the land;", "Now robes and gifts and goblets suit the hand,’"]}, {"id": "C4.53.23", "lines": ["This grievous matter cast Iran in grief,", "And no man’s heart could find the least relief."]}, {"id": "C4.53.24", "lines": ["For you have cast God’s righteous path aside,", "And turned toward evil counsel as your guide."]}, {"id": "C4.53.25", "lines": ["You gain no benefit from doing wrong,", "Nor please the Maker who has helped you long."]}, {"id": "C4.53.26", "lines": ["If you persist, no man will serve your throne,", "Your laws ignored, no subject left your own."]}, {"id": "C4.53.27", "lines": ["Then you will come to rue what you have done;", "Consider well, and from Div-counsel run."]}, {"id": "C4.53.28", "lines": ["If still you choose the road the Divs would pave,", "Yazdan will strip from you the farr He gave."]}, {"id": "C4.53.29", "lines": ["With sinful heart, you will know grief and shame;", "No man will hail you by your royal name."]}, {"id": "C4.53.30", "lines": ["Seek God as refuge; turn to Him, and know", "He guides through good and evil here below."]}, {"id": "C4.53.31", "lines": ["If you reject this counsel that I give,", "And trust in wicked Ahriman to live,"]}, {"id": "C4.53.32", "lines": ["Pain stays; your fortune leaves you on your own,", "Without a royal seat or crown or throne."]}, {"id": "C4.53.33", "lines": ["May wisdom be the leader of your soul,", "And keep your mind both pure and sound and whole.”"]}, {"id": "C4.53.34", "lines": ["When Zal had brought his counsel to its close,", "The voices of the gathered warriors rose:"]}, {"id": "C4.53.35", "lines": ["“We too agree with all this elder said;", "Let truth be spoken openly instead.”"]}, {"id": "C4.54.1", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow had heard the counsel through,", "He checked his wrath and weighed what he should do."]}, {"id": "C4.54.2", "lines": ["Then spoke with measured thought: “O elder wise,", "Whose years have seen so much beneath the skies,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.3", "lines": ["If I speak harshly here for all to see,", "God would condemn such evil done by me."]}, {"id": "C4.54.4", "lines": ["Moreover Rostam’s heart would suffer grief,", "And wounded Iran would find no relief."]}, {"id": "C4.54.5", "lines": ["If I should count the toils that he has borne,", "No treasure could repay him, tired and worn."]}, {"id": "C4.54.6", "lines": ["He shielded me with his own body’s might,", "And robbed our foes of food and sleep outright."]}, {"id": "C4.54.7", "lines": ["Therefore I shall reply with measured care,", "And spare your heart the wound of words unfair.”"]}, {"id": "C4.54.8", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said aloud, “O noble men,", "Whose fortunes flourish time and time again,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.9", "lines": ["I heard the words that Zal has spoken now;", "By God, whose might sustains all things, I vow,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.10", "lines": ["I keep myself far off from each Div’s way,", "And scorn its bidding and its dark display."]}, {"id": "C4.54.11", "lines": ["My soul inclines to God, for I have found", "In Him the cure for wounds that hold me bound."]}, {"id": "C4.54.12", "lines": ["My bright heart saw that other world revealed;", "Against its evils, wisdom was my shield.”"]}, {"id": "C4.54.13", "lines": ["He said to Zal, “Let measured thought abide,", "And weigh your words, and let your pride subside."]}, {"id": "C4.54.14", "lines": ["First, when you said, ‘No wise and shrewd one came", "From Turan’s blood to win an honored name,’"]}, {"id": "C4.54.15", "lines": ["I am Siavash’s wise and royal son,", "A Kayanian king whose crown was won."]}, {"id": "C4.54.16", "lines": ["My father’s father wore Iran’s bright crown,", "Kay Kavus, king of widespread renown."]}, {"id": "C4.54.17", "lines": ["Through my mother, Afrasiab’s blood I keep;", "His wrath robbed foes of food and peaceful sleep."]}, {"id": "C4.54.18", "lines": ["Thus sprung from Fereydoon and Pashang’s line,", "I feel no shame that such descent is mine."]}, {"id": "C4.54.19", "lines": ["Iran’s brave lions feared him; none would dare", "To bathe at sea, so great their dread and care."]}, {"id": "C4.54.20", "lines": ["Next, as for that great chest Kavus designed,", "To rise beyond the clouds and mortal kind,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.21", "lines": ["Know this: no blame attaches to a king", "For lofty aims that rise on fortune’s wing."]}, {"id": "C4.54.22", "lines": ["Now that I have avenged my father’s death,", "And justice gives the world reviving breath,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.23", "lines": ["And slain the man whose wrongs had plagued the earth,", "Whose tyranny had given vengeance birth,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.24", "lines": ["No further work remains for me below;", "No crowned oppressor can his power show."]}, {"id": "C4.54.25", "lines": ["Whenever I reflect on kingly reign,", "On long dominion, majesty, and gain,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.26", "lines": ["I fear to follow Kavus, lose my place,", "Like Jamshid, stripped of farr and in disgrace,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.27", "lines": ["Like dark Zahhak and daring Tur in pride,", "Whose crimes made all the world stand terrified."]}, {"id": "C4.54.28", "lines": ["I fear that time will draw me, too, to Hell,", "Like those who sinned before me and who fell."]}, {"id": "C4.54.29", "lines": ["You said I fought Shideh with all my might,", "Like some brave leopard eager for the fight."]}, {"id": "C4.54.30", "lines": ["The cause was this: no horseman could I see", "In all Iran to face him fearlessly,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.31", "lines": ["Who could confront that warrior on his own,", "And last in combat when his strength was shown."]}, {"id": "C4.54.32", "lines": ["Without God’s farr to help him in the fight,", "Without a star that smiled upon him bright,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.33", "lines": ["He would be dust; so I, for Iran’s sake,", "Went forth to fight Pashang, my life at stake."]}, {"id": "C4.54.34", "lines": ["For these five weeks I have not ceased to pray;", "My lips have called in prayer till dawn’s first ray,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.35", "lines": ["That God, Yazdan of all, might set me free,", "And lift the weight of earthly grief from me."]}, {"id": "C4.54.36", "lines": ["Weary of army, crown, and throne, I cast", "Them off; I have packed up; their cares are past."]}, {"id": "C4.54.37", "lines": ["You, son of Sahm, great elder, wise and rare,", "Have said the Div has laid for me a snare."]}, {"id": "C4.54.38", "lines": ["You said I darkly left the righteous way,", "Grown vile of soul and black of heart today."]}, {"id": "C4.54.39", "lines": ["I do not know where God’s avenging might", "Will find you, or what grief will cloud your light.”"]}, {"id": "C4.54.40", "lines": ["Zal heard, bewildered by the words proclaimed,", "And could not meet the eyes of him he blamed."]}, {"id": "C4.54.41", "lines": ["Then with a cry he rose upon his feet,", "And said, “O Shah, whose worship is complete,"]}, {"id": "C4.54.42", "lines": ["My fault was rashness, folly in my view;", "But pure and wise and godly, Shah, are you."]}, {"id": "C4.54.43", "lines": ["Forgive me if the Div has led me wrong;", "My years in service to the Shahs are long."]}, {"id": "C4.54.44", "lines": ["For countless years I bound my belt and stood", "Before the throne and served the royal good."]}, {"id": "C4.54.45", "lines": ["No king I knew had sought this road, this boon,", "From God, Creator of the Sun and Moon."]}, {"id": "C4.54.46", "lines": ["Now Kay Khosrow has come to teach us all;", "May evil fortune never make him fall."]}, {"id": "C4.54.47", "lines": ["I do not wish to part from Khosrow’s side;", "Let wisdom witness all the grief inside."]}, {"id": "C4.54.48", "lines": ["For all in Iran who desire his good,", "His deeds outweigh the grief we have withstood."]}, {"id": "C4.54.49", "lines": ["Our sorrow comes because we now must part", "From just Khosrow, the hope of every heart.”"]}, {"id": "C4.54.50", "lines": ["The Shah approved the plea that Zal expressed;", "The elder’s words had set his heart at rest."]}, {"id": "C4.54.51", "lines": ["He took Zal’s hand and drew him to his side,", "And seated him beside him, satisfied."]}, {"id": "C4.54.52", "lines": ["He knew that love had prompted every word", "The sun-faced Shah from faithful Zal had heard."]}, {"id": "C4.55.1", "lines": ["The Shah told Zal, “Make ready, one and all;", "Gird on your belts and answer duty’s call."]}, {"id": "C4.55.2", "lines": ["You, Rostam, Tus, Gudarz, and Giv prepare;", "Let all the mighty chiefs this duty share."]}, {"id": "C4.55.3", "lines": ["Bear out the royal camp and let it stand", "With royal standard on the open land."]}, {"id": "C4.55.4", "lines": ["Take all the tents and set them in their place;", "With royal pavilions fill the open space."]}, {"id": "C4.55.5", "lines": ["Bring standards, troops, and elephants in train;", "Arrange a field of battle on the plain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.55.6", "lines": ["Then Rostam did exactly as he heard;", "They bore the royal camp forth at his word."]}, {"id": "C4.55.7", "lines": ["The Iranians took the plain at his command;", "All girt themselves, prepared to serve his hand."]}, {"id": "C4.55.8", "lines": ["The earth was filled with tents from hill to hill,", "White, sable, violet, blue, at royal will."]}, {"id": "C4.55.9", "lines": ["The central Kaviani banner flew,", "Red, yellow, violet; all blazed in view."]}, {"id": "C4.55.10", "lines": ["Zal’s tent stood near the king’s upon the plain;", "His black flag rose above the gathered train."]}, {"id": "C4.55.11", "lines": ["Brave Rostam, Pahlevan of mighty hand,", "Was posted left with chiefs of Kabul’s land."]}, {"id": "C4.55.12", "lines": ["In front stood Tus and Gudarz, brave and tried,", "With Giv, Shapur, Farhad, Gorgin beside."]}, {"id": "C4.55.13", "lines": ["Bijan and Gostaham stood in the rear,", "With all the other nobles gathered near."]}, {"id": "C4.55.14", "lines": ["The king of kings sat on the golden throne,", "And held the ox-head gorz that was his own."]}, {"id": "C4.55.15", "lines": ["On one end Zal and Rostam stood in pride,", "Like elephant and fierce lion, side by side."]}, {"id": "C4.55.16", "lines": ["Tus, Giv, Gudarz stood on the other flank;", "Rohham, Shapur, and Gorgin joined their rank."]}, {"id": "C4.55.17", "lines": ["All eyes were fixed on Kay Khosrow’s bright face,", "To hear what charge the army would embrace."]}, {"id": "C4.55.18", "lines": ["He raised his voice and said, “O men of deed,", "All those who follow wisdom’s faithful lead,"]}, {"id": "C4.55.19", "lines": ["Know well that good and ill must pass away;", "This world is but a lodging for our stay."]}, {"id": "C4.55.20", "lines": ["Why cling to toil, to sorrow, grief, and care?", "The road of parting waits for all to share."]}, {"id": "C4.55.21", "lines": ["We gather wealth from every side, then go,", "And leave what we have gathered to the foe."]}, {"id": "C4.55.22", "lines": ["The ox is hidden still beneath its hide;", "Elsewhere, reward and punishment abide."]}, {"id": "C4.55.23", "lines": ["Fear holy God, all you of noble birth,", "And take no joy in this dark, passing earth."]}, {"id": "C4.55.24", "lines": ["The day of each of us will pass away,", "And time is counting every breath today."]}, {"id": "C4.55.25", "lines": ["Hushang, Jamshid, and Kavus bore the weight", "Of throne and crown and farr; all met their fate."]}, {"id": "C4.55.26", "lines": ["Their names alone remain; their power has fled;", "No man now reads the edicts of the dead."]}, {"id": "C4.55.27", "lines": ["Full many showed ingratitude and pride,", "Then feared their evil deeds before they died."]}, {"id": "C4.55.28", "lines": ["I am, like them, a servant to the last,", "Though all my days in striving have been passed."]}, {"id": "C4.55.29", "lines": ["I strove and bore exceeding grief and pain,", "And learned no mortal here will long remain."]}, {"id": "C4.55.30", "lines": ["Now from this passing world I draw my heart,", "And from its toil and care I now depart."]}, {"id": "C4.55.31", "lines": ["Now I have won the wish my heart held fast,", "And from Kayanian crown and throne have passed."]}, {"id": "C4.55.32", "lines": ["To all who bore great toil at my command,", "I grant whatever wealth they may demand."]}, {"id": "C4.55.33", "lines": ["For every deed that earned my grateful praise,", "I shall tell God, who knows our worthy ways."]}, {"id": "C4.55.34", "lines": ["I give Iran the wealth my vaults enfold,", "The well-stocked treasury, the arms and gold."]}, {"id": "C4.55.35", "lines": ["To every chief among you I shall give", "A land to govern and a place to live."]}, {"id": "C4.55.36", "lines": ["The purses, slaves, and livestock I shall count,", "And reckon each to know the full amount."]}, {"id": "C4.55.37", "lines": ["I now bestow them, for I go my way,", "And clear my heart from darkness and decay."]}, {"id": "C4.55.38", "lines": ["Eat, drink, and let your hearts rejoice in peace;", "For one full week let care and mourning cease."]}, {"id": "C4.55.39", "lines": ["Pray I may leave this passing world of pain,", "And far from suffering and grief remain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.55.40", "lines": ["When Khosrow ceased, they all could only stare,", "Amazed at what they heard the Shah declare."]}, {"id": "C4.55.41", "lines": ["One said, “The Shah is mad; his wits have flown;", "His heart and reason have as strangers grown."]}, {"id": "C4.55.42", "lines": ["I do not know what fate he yet must face,", "Or where his crown and throne will find their place.”"]}, {"id": "C4.55.43", "lines": ["They went in groups; the troops filled all the ground,", "The plain, the meadows, and the heights around."]}, {"id": "C4.55.44", "lines": ["The pipes and horses’ cries rose from the plain,", "As though the air could not their sound contain."]}, {"id": "C4.55.45", "lines": ["For one full week the revels did not cease;", "All grief and sorrow gave their place to peace."]}, {"id": "C4.56.1", "lines": ["The eighth day, Khosrow sat bareheaded, shorn", "Of Roman helm, of gorz, of armlets worn."]}, {"id": "C4.56.2", "lines": ["His time to leave drew near; they opened wide", "A treasury with all its wealth inside."]}, {"id": "C4.56.3", "lines": ["He made Gudarz, the son of Keshvad, stand", "As steward of his wealth at his command."]}, {"id": "C4.56.4", "lines": ["He said, “Attend to all the realm’s affairs,", "Its public duties and its hidden cares."]}, {"id": "C4.56.5", "lines": ["With toil we gather wealth and fill the store;", "A day then comes to open wide its door."]}, {"id": "C4.56.6", "lines": ["Look to the ruined inns throughout the land,", "And bridges near Iran that need your hand."]}, {"id": "C4.56.7", "lines": ["Restore the reservoirs of Iran’s plain,", "Which Afrasiab wrecked in his campaign."]}, {"id": "C4.56.8", "lines": ["Help children left without a mother’s care,", "And widows who have not a cloak to wear,"]}, {"id": "C4.56.9", "lines": ["And those whom age has driven into need;", "To all such hidden griefs give careful heed."]}, {"id": "C4.56.10", "lines": ["Do not deny the poor; give from your store,", "And fear the evil days that lie before."]}, {"id": "C4.56.11", "lines": ["The Badavard is filled with treasure deep:", "Crowns, gems, and ornaments in heap on heap."]}, {"id": "C4.56.12", "lines": ["Look to the towns where lions make their lair,", "And leopards haunt the ruins everywhere."]}, {"id": "C4.56.13", "lines": ["Restore the fire temples, once alight,", "Now ruined, with no herbad for the rite."]}, {"id": "C4.56.14", "lines": ["Help those grown weak, who in their prime would give", "Their silver freely; help them now to live."]}, {"id": "C4.56.15", "lines": ["Restore the wells dried up so long ago,", "Through all the years that saw no water flow."]}, {"id": "C4.56.16", "lines": ["With Badavard restore them; freely give;", "Count silver dust; think how briefly we live.”"]}, {"id": "C4.56.17", "lines": ["The Gang-e-Aroos, in Tus, from days of old,", "Kay Kavus filled with riches manifold."]}, {"id": "C4.56.18", "lines": ["He bade Gudarz, “Give Zal and Giv their due,", "And give the lord of Rakhsh his portion too.”"]}, {"id": "C4.56.19", "lines": ["He counted all his robes of costly light,", "And gave them to great Rostam as his right."]}, {"id": "C4.56.20", "lines": ["To Rostam, armlets, torques, jowshans were sent,", "And all the heavy gorzes with them went."]}, {"id": "C4.56.21", "lines": ["He gave to Tus the herds of horses, freed", "To graze, and made him keeper of each steed."]}, {"id": "C4.56.22", "lines": ["He gave Gudarz his gardens, rose-beds fair,", "And palaces he named with royal care."]}, {"id": "C4.56.23", "lines": ["The arms he kept, acquired through toil and strain,", "The wealth that he had earned through so much pain,"]}, {"id": "C4.56.24", "lines": ["He gave complete to gallant Giv that day,", "When from the throne he turned his heart away."]}, {"id": "C4.56.25", "lines": ["He gave his palace, pavilions, and all", "His tents and beasts, with every stable stall,"]}, {"id": "C4.56.26", "lines": ["To Fariborz, Kavus’s son, to hold,", "With jowshan, helm, and headpiece wrought of gold."]}, {"id": "C4.56.27", "lines": ["A torque surpassed bright Jupiter in light;", "Two rings of ruby glittered red and bright."]}, {"id": "C4.56.28", "lines": ["Upon them stood King Khosrow’s famous name,", "Known through the world and bright with royal fame."]}, {"id": "C4.56.29", "lines": ["He said to Bijan, “Keep these gifts from me;", "Sow only seeds of good where life may be.”"]}, {"id": "C4.56.30", "lines": ["Then to Iran’s chiefs Khosrow made it clear:", "“My wish revives; my destined time is here."]}, {"id": "C4.56.31", "lines": ["Ask what you need of me without delay;", "This gathering must part; I go my way.”"]}, {"id": "C4.56.32", "lines": ["The chiefs began to weep in deep dismay;", "Grief for the Shah consumed their hearts that day."]}, {"id": "C4.56.33", "lines": ["Each asked, “O king, to whom will you hand down", "As your remembrance this resplendent crown?”"]}, {"id": "C4.57.1", "lines": ["When loyal Zal had heard the Shah’s command,", "He kissed the earth, then rose before the band."]}, {"id": "C4.57.2", "lines": ["He spoke aloud: “O ruler of mankind,", "Let me reveal the wish within my mind."]}, {"id": "C4.57.3", "lines": ["You know what Rostam did in court and fight,", "For Iran’s honor, serving with his might."]}, {"id": "C4.57.4", "lines": ["When Kay Kavus to Mazandaran went,", "Through many farsangs, hardship-worn and spent,"]}, {"id": "C4.57.5", "lines": ["And when the Divs had held him in their snare,", "With Tus and proud Gudarz locked in their lair,"]}, {"id": "C4.57.6", "lines": ["He heard and set out swiftly on his own;", "To Mazandaran Rostam went alone."]}, {"id": "C4.57.7", "lines": ["Through desert, darkness, Divs, and lions grim,", "Enchanters, dragons, all confronting him,"]}, {"id": "C4.57.8", "lines": ["In toil and hardship still he cut his way,", "Until he reached the captive Shah that day."]}, {"id": "C4.57.9", "lines": ["He tore the White Div’s flank and, in the fray,", "Ripped Pulad Ghandi’s guts and Bid’s away."]}, {"id": "C4.57.10", "lines": ["He plucked off Sanja’s head; his battle-cry", "Rose like a storm against the vaulting sky."]}, {"id": "C4.57.11", "lines": ["When Kay Kavus to Hamavaran came,", "They bound in heavy chains that Shah of fame,"]}, {"id": "C4.57.12", "lines": ["With Tus, Gudarz, and Giv, those gallant hearts,", "Those wary warriors, masters of their arts."]}, {"id": "C4.57.13", "lines": ["Then Rostam marched with Iran’s mighty throng,", "With elephants that trumpeted along."]}, {"id": "C4.57.14", "lines": ["He freed Kavus, then Tus and Gudarz too,", "And gallant Giv, whose loyal heart was true."]}, {"id": "C4.57.15", "lines": ["Sohrab, his son, possessed a peerless name;", "No equal warrior through the wide world came."]}, {"id": "C4.57.16", "lines": ["Yet for Kavus’s throne he slew his son,", "And wept through months and years for what was done."]}, {"id": "C4.57.17", "lines": ["When afterward he fought fierce Kamus too,", "His valor drove the dust to heaven’s blue."]}, {"id": "C4.57.18", "lines": ["His deeds are more than words can comprehend;", "However long I speak, they have no end."]}, {"id": "C4.57.19", "lines": ["Now if the Shah is tired of crown and throne,", "What shall this loyal lion have as his own?”"]}, {"id": "C4.57.20", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow answered, “All he had to bear,", "His deeds for me, his labors and his care;"]}, {"id": "C4.57.21", "lines": ["Who knows them fully but Yazdan above,", "Who grants all justice, peace, and lasting love?"]}, {"id": "C4.57.22", "lines": ["Yet, Zal, his fame is known both far and wide;", "No equal in the world stands at his side.”"]}, {"id": "C4.57.23", "lines": ["He called a scribe, and bade him to proceed", "With paper, musk, abir to write the deed."]}, {"id": "C4.57.24", "lines": ["They wrote a patent in the monarch’s name,", "Kay Khosrow, pure in faith and crowned with fame,"]}, {"id": "C4.57.25", "lines": ["For elephantine Rostam, praised aloud", "For valor in each gathering and crowd,"]}, {"id": "C4.57.26", "lines": ["That he should lead the world by strength and right,", "A lord and champion, watchful, sharp of sight:"]}, {"id": "C4.57.27", "lines": ["From Zabulistan to the river Sind,", "All Kabul, Danbar, Mai, and lands of Hind,"]}, {"id": "C4.57.28", "lines": ["Bost, Ghaznin, Zabulistan formed his domain;", "Through Ravar to Kabulistan ran his reign."]}, {"id": "C4.57.29", "lines": ["A conquering leader, glory of the field,", "To him Nimruz and all its lands were sealed."]}, {"id": "C4.57.30", "lines": ["They set the golden seal upon the deed,", "As just Khosrow’s established laws decreed."]}, {"id": "C4.57.31", "lines": ["He gave it to him, praised him face to face,", "And said, “May earth be blessed through Rostam’s grace.”"]}, {"id": "C4.57.32", "lines": ["Then to the chiefs who joined Zal on the way,", "With star-tables tucked at their sides that day,"]}, {"id": "C4.57.33", "lines": ["He gave rich robes and silver, shining gold,", "And each a cup of precious gems to hold."]}, {"id": "C4.58.1", "lines": ["Then world-wise Gudarz rose before the throne,", "And made his truthful words to Khosrow known."]}, {"id": "C4.58.2", "lines": ["He said, “Victorious Shah, beneath the sun,", "No peer has held the throne that you have won."]}, {"id": "C4.58.3", "lines": ["From Manuchehr and Kay Qobad’s renown", "To Shah Kavus, and now before your crown,"]}, {"id": "C4.58.4", "lines": ["I served the kings and mighty chiefs of fame,", "And not one day of ease or respite came."]}, {"id": "C4.58.5", "lines": ["My sons and grandsons numbered seventy-eight;", "Now eight remain; the rest have met their fate."]}, {"id": "C4.58.6", "lines": ["And watchful Giv for seven years did stay", "In far Turan, with want his lot each day."]}, {"id": "C4.58.7", "lines": ["The desert’s Gur-e-Khar supplied his fare;", "He clothed himself in skins against the air."]}, {"id": "C4.58.8", "lines": ["When Shah Khosrow came home to Iran’s land,", "He saw the hardships Giv had borne firsthand."]}, {"id": "C4.58.9", "lines": ["Now that the Shah has wearied of the throne,", "Let Giv receive the kindness he has sown.”"]}, {"id": "C4.58.10", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Still more than this was done;", "A thousand blessings on that noble one."]}, {"id": "C4.58.11", "lines": ["May God, the Master of the world, stand near;", "May thorns fill hostile hearts with pain and fear."]}, {"id": "C4.58.12", "lines": ["All of my wealth I place within your hand;", "May health and light of soul beside you stand.”"]}, {"id": "C4.58.13", "lines": ["He granted Qom and famed Isfahan’s seat,", "The home of chiefs where noble houses meet."]}, {"id": "C4.58.14", "lines": ["The scribe with musk and ambergris then traced", "The royal patent, on fine silk unlaced."]}, {"id": "C4.58.15", "lines": ["He sealed it with his golden signet bright,", "Then blessed the grant before the court’s full sight:"]}, {"id": "C4.58.16", "lines": ["“May God be pleased with Gudarz and his ways;", "May smoke fill his foes’ hearts through all their days.”"]}, {"id": "C4.58.17", "lines": ["Then to Iran’s assembled chiefs he said,", "“May Giv not tire of deeds in years ahead."]}, {"id": "C4.58.18", "lines": ["He is my living memory; hold him dear,", "A charge entrusted to your keeping here."]}, {"id": "C4.58.19", "lines": ["Bow to his royal grant throughout the land; ", "Defy not Gudarz nor his son’s command.”"]}, {"id": "C4.58.20", "lines": ["Each leader there of Gudarz’s noble race", "Raised fresh blessings before the royal face."]}, {"id": "C4.59.1", "lines": ["When Gudarz took his seat again, Tus rose,", "And kissed the ground where royal splendor glows."]}, {"id": "C4.59.2", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah, may joy attend your day;", "May evil’s hand be ever kept away."]}, {"id": "C4.59.3", "lines": ["From Fereydoon descends this house of mine;", "Before Qobad, the crown was in our line."]}, {"id": "C4.59.4", "lines": ["In jowshan, before Iran’s chiefs, I served,", "And from my bond of service never swerved."]}, {"id": "C4.59.5", "lines": ["On Hamavan my armor chafed my skin;", "It was the shirt I lived and labored in."]}, {"id": "C4.59.6", "lines": ["For Siavash, through every fearful night,", "I kept the camp on watch till morning light."]}, {"id": "C4.59.7", "lines": ["At Ladan I refused to leave my place", "Among the troops, the dragon’s breath to face."]}, {"id": "C4.59.8", "lines": ["When in Hamavaran Kavus was bound,", "Chains too on Tus’s neck and limbs were found."]}, {"id": "C4.59.9", "lines": ["I never failed the army in my care;", "No warrior rose with grievance to declare."]}, {"id": "C4.59.10", "lines": ["The Shah is tired of treasury and crown,", "And soon will leave this passing world’s renown."]}, {"id": "C4.59.11", "lines": ["What do you bid me do? What power is mine?", "You know my faults, and where my virtues shine.”"]}, {"id": "C4.59.12", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “You bore more grief from fate", "Than all the woes that you can now relate."]}, {"id": "C4.59.13", "lines": ["Keep Kaveh’s standard still in your command;", "In golden shoes, lead warriors of the land."]}, {"id": "C4.59.14", "lines": ["Take Khorasan as your allotted sphere;", "Among these chiefs, may ease await you here.”"]}, {"id": "C4.59.15", "lines": ["They wrote the patent, setting forth his right,", "Before the nobles in the monarch’s sight."]}, {"id": "C4.59.16", "lines": ["They set the golden seal upon the writ;", "A golden torque and belt they brought with it."]}, {"id": "C4.59.17", "lines": ["He gave them, blessing Tus: “May no heart breed", "The hate that might be kindled by your deed.”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.1", "lines": ["When kingly business for the chiefs was done,", "The Shah found rest from labors long begun."]}, {"id": "C4.60.2", "lines": ["Among the chiefs, Lohrasp’s name still remained", "Unread upon the list the Shah maintained."]}, {"id": "C4.60.3", "lines": ["He bade Bijan bring Lohrasp, cap in place,", "Before the throne to meet him face to face."]}, {"id": "C4.60.4", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw Lohrasp before him stand,", "He rose and greeted him with outstretched hand."]}, {"id": "C4.60.5", "lines": ["Down from the ivory throne the monarch came,", "And from his head took off the crown of flame."]}, {"id": "C4.60.6", "lines": ["He gave Lohrasp the crown, and in that hour", "He named him Shah and gave him royal power."]}, {"id": "C4.60.7", "lines": ["He said, “May fortune bless this crown for you,", "And make the world your slave in service true."]}, {"id": "C4.60.8", "lines": ["Since all my toil and pain have reached their end,", "The crown and treasure to your hand I send."]}, {"id": "C4.60.9", "lines": ["Speak only words whose root and fruit are just;", "Through justice you shall conquer and win trust."]}, {"id": "C4.60.10", "lines": ["Make not the Div a comrade of your soul,", "If lasting fortune is your chosen goal."]}, {"id": "C4.60.11", "lines": ["Be wise and let no harm through you take hold;", "Keep watch upon your soul as you grow old.”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.12", "lines": ["He told Iran’s great chiefs, “Let hearts rejoice;", "Accept his fortune and uphold my choice.”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.13", "lines": ["The chiefs stared at him, stunned by what they heard,", "Like raging lions, each to anger stirred."]}, {"id": "C4.60.14", "lines": ["They marveled at the name their king had brought:", "To call Lohrasp their Shah confounded thought."]}, {"id": "C4.60.15", "lines": ["Then Zal arose, and swiftly he addressed", "The court, and told what lay within his breast."]}, {"id": "C4.60.16", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah, whose majesty we trust,", "You have the power to honor common dust."]}, {"id": "C4.60.17", "lines": ["May dust fill up that man’s ill-fated head;", "May nush-daru bring poison in its stead,"]}, {"id": "C4.60.18", "lines": ["Who says Lohrasp is king by rightful name;", "We will not countenance so wrong a claim."]}, {"id": "C4.60.19", "lines": ["He came to Iran, to Zarasp drew near;", "I saw him poor, with but one horse in gear."]}, {"id": "C4.60.20", "lines": ["You sent him out against the Alan foe,", "With troops, a flag, and belt you bade him go."]}, {"id": "C4.60.21", "lines": ["Though chiefs of royal blood abound in fame,", "The Shah has not remembered one by name."]}, {"id": "C4.60.22", "lines": ["His birth and worth are both unknown to me;", "I never heard of such a king to be.”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.23", "lines": ["When Zal, the son of Sahm, had spoken so,", "The gathering’s anger then began to grow."]}, {"id": "C4.60.24", "lines": ["A shout arose from Iran’s chiefs, who cried:", "“We will not arm for him, nor with him ride."]}, {"id": "C4.60.25", "lines": ["From this day we will shun the battlefield,", "If crown and throne to this Lohrasp must yield.”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.26", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard the words that Zal had said,", "He answered, “Curb yourself; let wrath lie dead."]}, {"id": "C4.60.27", "lines": ["For he who speaks what justice cannot own", "Will find but smoke where righteous fire has shone."]}, {"id": "C4.60.28", "lines": ["God does not bless the evil men have planned;", "The wicked fall beneath time’s turning hand."]}, {"id": "C4.60.29", "lines": ["The man whom God has blessed with happy fate", "Is fit to wear the crown and rule the state."]}, {"id": "C4.60.30", "lines": ["The Maker is my witness when I say", "That all these virtues light Lohrasp’s way."]}, {"id": "C4.60.31", "lines": ["Wellborn and modest, he keeps faith and gives;", "He wins through justice and in gladness lives."]}, {"id": "C4.60.32", "lines": ["From World-Lord Hushang comes his noble line;", "Clean hands, clear sight, and wisdom in him shine."]}, {"id": "C4.60.33", "lines": ["He shall drive out the sorcerers, and make", "The Maker’s holy truth the path men take."]}, {"id": "C4.60.34", "lines": ["His counsels will renew the age’s youth,", "And as he is, his son shall walk in truth."]}, {"id": "C4.60.35", "lines": ["Now hail Lohrasp as wearer of the crown;", "If you love me, you must not cast him down."]}, {"id": "C4.60.36", "lines": ["For if a man transgress my last command,", "His former toils will sink like dust in sand."]}, {"id": "C4.60.37", "lines": ["Such men give God no thanks for all His grace;", "And fear besets their hearts from every place.”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.38", "lines": ["When Zal had heard the words the Shah expressed,", "He reached out, to the dust his finger pressed."]}, {"id": "C4.60.39", "lines": ["With that black dust he stained his lips, then raised", "His voice: Lohrasp was Shah, whom now he praised."]}, {"id": "C4.60.40", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah, may happiness draw near;", "May every evil hand be far from here."]}, {"id": "C4.60.41", "lines": ["Who but the Shah, victorious and wise,", "Could know the royal blood that in him lies?"]}, {"id": "C4.60.42", "lines": ["I swore upon black dust; let none condemn", "My lips for bearing dust that blackened them.”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.43", "lines": ["The great men showered jewels on the heir,", "And hailed Lohrasp as Shah with praise and prayer."]}, {"id": "C4.60.44", "lines": ["He told the chiefs, “Farewell to this bright throne,", "This heart-delighting seat I called my own."]}, {"id": "C4.60.45", "lines": ["And when I leave this vile and dusty sphere,", "I shall ask God to draw our spirits near.”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.46", "lines": ["In taking leave he kissed each warrior’s face;", "His lashes brimmed with tears and royal grace."]}, {"id": "C4.60.47", "lines": ["He clasped the heroes close and wept aloud;", "The tears streamed down his face; his head was bowed."]}, {"id": "C4.60.48", "lines": ["He cried, “If only I could take you all,", "The whole assembly gathered in this hall!”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.49", "lines": ["A cry arose from all Iran that day:", "“The sun within the heavens lost its way!”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.50", "lines": ["From curtained rooms came women, children, men;", "In streets and markets all assembled then."]}, {"id": "C4.60.51", "lines": ["All raised their wails and lamentations high;", "Each quarter answered with a grieving cry."]}, {"id": "C4.60.52", "lines": ["He told Iran’s assembled chiefs, “One day,", "You too must take this selfsame mortal way."]}, {"id": "C4.60.53", "lines": ["All you of noble birth and honored name,", "Rejoice in Him who set the sun aflame."]}, {"id": "C4.60.54", "lines": ["I nurture now my soul, and hope to go", "With honor from this fleeting world below."]}, {"id": "C4.60.55", "lines": ["I never bound my heart to this brief stay;", "Now know Soroush has come to lead my way.”"]}, {"id": "C4.60.56", "lines": ["He called a steed forth from its stall to ride;", "The army’s cries arose on every side."]}, {"id": "C4.60.57", "lines": ["He reached the royal palace, bowed with woe,", "His cypress stature bent beneath the blow."]}, {"id": "C4.61.1", "lines": ["He had four radiant women; none had seen", "Their faces even in a dream’s clear sheen."]}, {"id": "C4.61.2", "lines": ["He called those idols from their bowers away,", "And told his purpose plainly on that day:"]}, {"id": "C4.61.3", "lines": ["“I am about to leave this earthly place;", "Let neither grief nor pain your hearts embrace."]}, {"id": "C4.61.4", "lines": ["You shall not look upon my face once more;", "I tire of earth and all the griefs it bore."]}, {"id": "C4.61.5", "lines": ["I go to God, the holy Judge above,", "And see no path returning to your love.”"]}, {"id": "C4.61.6", "lines": ["The four fell senseless, overcome by grief;", "Their cries of love and pain found no relief."]}, {"id": "C4.61.7", "lines": ["They tore their faces, plucked their flowing hair,", "And broke their jeweled ornaments in despair."]}, {"id": "C4.61.8", "lines": ["Then each, as sense returned, began to cry,", "And raised her voice in lamentation high:"]}, {"id": "C4.61.9", "lines": ["“Take us as well from this inconstant sphere,", "And lead us on the hidden road from here.”"]}, {"id": "C4.61.10", "lines": ["The noble Shah replied to them: “You too", "Must take the road all mortals must pursue."]}, {"id": "C4.61.11", "lines": ["Where are the sisters of Jamshid this hour?", "Where are the crowned ones, proud in all their power?"]}, {"id": "C4.61.12", "lines": ["Where is Afrasiab’s daughter, she of fame,", "Who crossed the waters, she from whom I came?"]}, {"id": "C4.61.13", "lines": ["Where is Tur’s daughter, Mah Afrid the fair,", "Whose beauty none could equal anywhere?"]}, {"id": "C4.61.14", "lines": ["Their beds are brick and dust beneath the sky;", "I know not if in heaven or hell they lie."]}, {"id": "C4.61.15", "lines": ["The teeth and talons Death has bared to gore", "Will close on crown and helm forevermore."]}, {"id": "C4.61.16", "lines": ["Therefore, let righteousness adorn the heart;", "No other soul can do your virtuous part."]}, {"id": "C4.61.17", "lines": ["Do not increase the grief that I must bear;", "Make my hard journey easier through your care.”"]}, {"id": "C4.61.18", "lines": ["He summoned brave Lohrasp before the throne,", "And spoke about the women of his own."]}, {"id": "C4.61.19", "lines": ["He said, “These idols, lovely to the sight,", "Adorn my house and fill me with delight."]}, {"id": "C4.61.20", "lines": ["Keep them together in this house, and tend", "And guard them till your reign has reached its end."]}, {"id": "C4.61.21", "lines": ["When God shall call you from the crown and hall,", "May none of your own deeds bring shame at all."]}, {"id": "C4.61.22", "lines": ["Nor stand ashamed before two royal men,", "When you meet me and Siavash again.”"]}, {"id": "C4.61.23", "lines": ["Lohrasp accepted every word, and bore", "The charge to keep them veiled behind their door."]}, {"id": "C4.61.24", "lines": ["Khosrow, his belt made fast, walked through the crowd", "And spoke to all the Iranians aloud:"]}, {"id": "C4.61.25", "lines": ["“Return at once to your own halls, and know:", "Let not your hearts be scorched because I go."]}, {"id": "C4.61.26", "lines": ["Place no deep trust in this world’s fleeting guise;", "It hides still harsher things than meet your eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.61.27", "lines": ["Be generous and happy; think of me", "Only for good, and live in joy set free."]}, {"id": "C4.61.28", "lines": ["Rejoice in God, and when your passing nears,", "Let smiles and gladness overcome your tears.”"]}, {"id": "C4.61.29", "lines": ["Then all Iran’s renowned chiefs gathered round,", "And bowed before the Shah, heads to the ground."]}, {"id": "C4.61.30", "lines": ["“We hold his counsel dear as life,” they said,", "“And guard it till our final breath has fled.”"]}, {"id": "C4.62.1", "lines": ["Khosrow and his Pahlevans mounted to ride,", "As though for pleasure, at an easy stride."]}, {"id": "C4.62.2", "lines": ["At length, he bade Lohrasp turn back and said:", "“My day is done; its final light has fled."]}, {"id": "C4.62.3", "lines": ["Preserve the customs of the royal throne,", "And sow good seed through realms that are your own."]}, {"id": "C4.62.4", "lines": ["When you find ease, released from toil and pain,", "And pride in crown and treasure starts to wane,"]}, {"id": "C4.62.5", "lines": ["Then know the hour of leaving has drawn near;", "The road to God grows narrow for you here."]}, {"id": "C4.62.6", "lines": ["Seek justice, deal it out, and bring relief", "To noble men bowed down by worldly grief.”"]}, {"id": "C4.62.7", "lines": ["Lohrasp dismounted quickly from his steed,", "And kissed the dust in sorrow, grief, and need."]}, {"id": "C4.62.8", "lines": ["Khosrow said, “Go in peace; in all you do,", "Be warp and woof of justice, firm and true.”"]}, {"id": "C4.62.9", "lines": ["Iran’s great chieftains journeyed with their king,", "The wise and brave beneath his sheltering wing."]}, {"id": "C4.62.10", "lines": ["Zal, Rostam, Gudarz, Giv rode in the train,", "With bold Bijan and Gostaham on the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.62.11", "lines": ["The seventh, Fariborz, from Kavus came;", "The eighth was Tus, a man of warlike fame."]}, {"id": "C4.62.12", "lines": ["The army marched in troops, and did not stop", "Until they reached the mountain’s lofty top."]}, {"id": "C4.62.13", "lines": ["They rested for a week; the weary men", "Brought moisture to their thirsty lips again."]}, {"id": "C4.62.14", "lines": ["They wondered at the Shah and at his plan,", "A labor past the reasoning of man."]}, {"id": "C4.62.15", "lines": ["Each learned sage spoke softly, filled with awe:", "“No age has known such wonders as we saw.”"]}, {"id": "C4.62.16", "lines": ["When sun above the hills began to rise,", "A multitude appeared before his eyes."]}, {"id": "C4.62.17", "lines": ["A hundred thousand came with grief again,", "Iranians gathered there, both women, men."]}, {"id": "C4.62.18", "lines": ["The mountain filled with outcry, sobs, and moans,", "Until their sorrow seemed to move the stones."]}, {"id": "C4.62.19", "lines": ["The people cried, “O Shah, what pains your soul,", "That grief has drawn your wisdom from its goal?"]}, {"id": "C4.62.20", "lines": ["If from the army you have suffered pain,", "Or hold this royal crown in deep disdain,"]}, {"id": "C4.62.21", "lines": ["Tell us, and do not leave Iran’s great throne;", "Give not this ancient world a king unknown."]}, {"id": "C4.62.22", "lines": ["We are the dust beneath your charger’s tread;", "At Azargashasp we bow each humbled head."]}, {"id": "C4.62.23", "lines": ["Where are your wisdom, judgment, senses clear?", "To Fereydoon Soroush did not appear."]}, {"id": "C4.62.24", "lines": ["We all will raise our prayers to God on high,", "Within the fire-temple raise our cry,"]}, {"id": "C4.62.25", "lines": ["That holy God may bring you back, and pour", "Light in the priests’ hearts, and their joy restore.”"]}, {"id": "C4.62.26", "lines": ["The king of kings, astonished, called aside", "The learned sages from the weeping tide."]}, {"id": "C4.62.27", "lines": ["He said, “All here is good; do not complain,", "Nor weep at happiness as though at pain."]}, {"id": "C4.62.28", "lines": ["Give thanks to God for all that you have known;", "Acknowledge Him, the holy God, alone."]}, {"id": "C4.62.29", "lines": ["For soon we shall be gathered, you and I;", "Do not lament because I say goodbye.”"]}, {"id": "C4.62.30", "lines": ["Then to the chiefs he said, “Now turn away;", "Return without your old shah; do not stay."]}, {"id": "C4.62.31", "lines": ["The road is long and hard; no waters flow,", "No grass or leafy branches there will grow."]}, {"id": "C4.62.32", "lines": ["Cut short the road by leaving me behind,", "And toward the light direct both soul and mind."]}, {"id": "C4.62.33", "lines": ["Not everyone can cross these sands; they bar", "All but the tall in stature, rich in farr.”"]}, {"id": "C4.62.34", "lines": ["Three warriors heeded him and turned again:", "Zal, Rostam, Gudarz, wisest among men."]}, {"id": "C4.62.35", "lines": ["Their aims were lofty, and their vision wide;", "With watchful minds they left the monarch’s side."]}, {"id": "C4.62.36", "lines": ["Tus, Giv, Fariborz stayed, a steadfast band,", "With Gostaham and Bijan, through the sand."]}, {"id": "C4.62.37", "lines": ["They traveled for a day and through the night,", "Distressed by barren sands and drought’s harsh bite."]}, {"id": "C4.62.38", "lines": ["At last a spring appeared beside the way;", "Toward it advanced the Shah without delay."]}, {"id": "C4.62.39", "lines": ["They all dismounted by that water clear,", "Ate food, and rested from their march and fear."]}, {"id": "C4.62.40", "lines": ["The Shah addressed the lords who marched with him:", "“Here let us stay until the stars grow dim."]}, {"id": "C4.62.41", "lines": ["Let us recall the past throughout the night;", "Hereafter I shall vanish from your sight."]}, {"id": "C4.62.42", "lines": ["When radiant sun uplifts its flag of gold,", "And dark earth brightens under morning’s hold,"]}, {"id": "C4.62.43", "lines": ["Then comes the hour in which I pass away,", "With blessed Soroush guiding me that day."]}, {"id": "C4.62.44", "lines": ["If my heart darkens and rejects this road,", "I will tear it out beneath its mortal load.”"]}, {"id": "C4.62.45", "lines": ["As night advanced, the famed Kayanian king", "Prayed to his God beside the flowing spring."]}, {"id": "C4.62.46", "lines": ["He bathed his head and body in the flow,", "And read the Zand-Avesta, soft and low."]}, {"id": "C4.62.47", "lines": ["He told the wise companions gathered near,", "“Farewell forever, friends whom I hold dear."]}, {"id": "C4.62.48", "lines": ["When sunlight lifts its spear and morning gleams,", "You shall behold me only in your dreams."]}, {"id": "C4.62.49", "lines": ["Tomorrow leave these sands and go your way;", "Though clouds rain musk, you must no longer stay."]}, {"id": "C4.62.50", "lines": ["A fierce wind from the mountains shall descend,", "To break the branches, leaves and boughs to rend."]}, {"id": "C4.62.51", "lines": ["Black clouds shall pour down snow across the plain,", "And you will seek Iran’s road home in vain.”"]}, {"id": "C4.63.1", "lines": ["The chieftains bowed their heads beneath that word,", "The warriors slept in pain from what they heard."]}, {"id": "C4.63.2", "lines": ["When sunlight rose above the mountain height,", "The Shah had vanished from the world of sight."]}, {"id": "C4.63.3", "lines": ["They ranged across the mountain, every face", "Turned toward the plains, but found no royal trace."]}, {"id": "C4.63.4", "lines": ["They saw no sign of Kay Khosrow that day,", "And turned with stricken hearts back from the way."]}, {"id": "C4.63.5", "lines": ["They searched the crags like men bereft of mind, ", "Yet not a sign of Khosrow could they find."]}, {"id": "C4.63.6", "lines": ["Lamenting, stricken, sorrow in each breast,", "They reached the spring and halted in their quest."]}, {"id": "C4.63.7", "lines": ["Each bade farewell, his heart consumed by woe,", "To that world-ruling Shah, great Kay Khosrow."]}, {"id": "C4.63.8", "lines": ["Then Fariborz spoke of the counsel wise:", "“May wisdom with his spotless spirit rise."]}, {"id": "C4.63.9", "lines": ["Let us take food, and rest till night is past;", "Beside this spring tonight our camp is cast."]}, {"id": "C4.63.10", "lines": ["The earth is soft and warm, the sky is clear;", "I see no cause to move our camp from here.”"]}, {"id": "C4.63.11", "lines": ["They all dismounted by the water’s side,", "And spoke of Khosrow, grieving as they cried."]}, {"id": "C4.63.12", "lines": ["“No living soul will see such wonders shown,", "Though years beyond all counting may have flown."]}, {"id": "C4.63.13", "lines": ["When did we see a king depart this way?", "What chief has told a tale like ours today?"]}, {"id": "C4.63.14", "lines": ["Alas for all his fortune, grace, and thought,", "The majesty his noble bearing brought."]}, {"id": "C4.63.15", "lines": ["The wise will smile at paths no man has trod:", "A mortal king has walked alive to God."]}, {"id": "C4.63.16", "lines": ["Who knows what hidden fate has made him go?", "What tale that men will credit can we show?”"]}, {"id": "C4.63.17", "lines": ["Then Giv addressed the chiefs with sorrow grave:", "“No warrior ever rose more just or brave."]}, {"id": "C4.63.18", "lines": ["None matched his manhood, bounty, noble birth,", "His justice, stature, face, or fame on earth."]}, {"id": "C4.63.19", "lines": ["He stood in battle, elephantine and bright;", "At feasts he shone, a crowned moon of light.”"]}, {"id": "C4.63.20", "lines": ["They ate the food still left them from the day;", "Then soon in sleep the weary warriors lay."]}, {"id": "C4.63.21", "lines": ["Then wind arose and clouds obscured the sky,", "Which took the aspect of a lion’s eye."]}, {"id": "C4.63.22", "lines": ["The snow unfurled its sail of blinding white;", "Across the plain, each lance was lost to sight."]}, {"id": "C4.63.23", "lines": ["A heavy, raging snowfall swept around,", "And leveled all the wide expanse of ground."]}, {"id": "C4.63.24", "lines": ["The helpless heroes perished in the snow: ", "Tus, Gostaham, and Fariborz lay low;"]}, {"id": "C4.63.25", "lines": ["With valiant Giv and young Bijan, they passed, ", "Enclosed within that frozen tomb at last."]}, {"id": "C4.63.26", "lines": ["One after one, the snow closed round them deep;", "I cannot tell how long that grip would keep."]}, {"id": "C4.63.27", "lines": ["They struggled for a while beneath the storm;", "Deep hollows in the ground began to form."]}, {"id": "C4.63.28", "lines": ["No strength remained to struggle or to strive;", "Their souls departed; none was left alive."]}, {"id": "C4.63.29", "lines": ["Now Rostam, Zal, Gudarz, and horsemen stayed", "Upon the mountain, grieving and dismayed."]}, {"id": "C4.63.30", "lines": ["They waited three full days upon that height;", "The fourth day dawned and filled the sky with light."]}, {"id": "C4.63.31", "lines": ["They spoke: “How long must we endure delay,", "And on these rocks and in these mountains stay?"]}, {"id": "C4.63.32", "lines": ["The Shah has vanished, borne like breath away;", "No trace of him is left to us today."]}, {"id": "C4.63.33", "lines": ["Where are the other nobles, then, withdrawn?", "Perhaps they scorned the counsel urged at dawn.”"]}, {"id": "C4.63.34", "lines": ["A full week passed upon that mountain height,", "And grief had robbed them of all strength and might."]}, {"id": "C4.63.35", "lines": ["Distraught and grieving, worn by inward fire,", "They burned with sorrow, anguish, and desire."]}, {"id": "C4.63.36", "lines": ["Gudarz, the son of Keshvad, tore his hair,", "And clawed his cheeks in grief beyond repair."]}, {"id": "C4.63.37", "lines": ["He cried, “Who saw such grief as now I see?", "What grief from Kavus’s house has come to me?"]}, {"id": "C4.63.38", "lines": ["My sons and grandsons were an army grown,", "Each one a ruler, with a crown his own."]}, {"id": "C4.63.39", "lines": ["For Siavash’s vengeance, all were slain;", "My house was overthrown upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C4.63.40", "lines": ["And now the last have vanished from my sight.", "Who ever saw such grief, so strange a plight?”"]}, {"id": "C4.63.41", "lines": ["Then Zal spoke long, with ancient wisdom stored:", "“May wisdom with Yazdan’s decree accord."]}, {"id": "C4.63.42", "lines": ["Perhaps they yet may find the path and turn,", "When roads beneath the melted snow return."]}, {"id": "C4.63.43", "lines": ["We cannot live upon this mountainside;", "We have no food, and cannot here abide."]}, {"id": "C4.63.44", "lines": ["We shall send men on foot along the way;", "They may yet find the warriors’ trace one day.”"]}, {"id": "C4.63.45", "lines": ["They left the mountain, weeping as they went;", "On those they loved each grieving thought was bent."]}, {"id": "C4.63.46", "lines": ["They mourned their sons, their kinsmen, friends now gone,", "And him who stood like cypress on the lawn."]}, {"id": "C4.63.47", "lines": ["On foot, the searchers found the fallen band,", "And bore their bodies from that frozen land."]}, {"id": "C4.63.48", "lines": ["Thus to the city they conveyed the slain;", "Such was the share those chiefs left to their train."]}, {"id": "C4.63.49", "lines": ["For each they built a tomb to hold the dead;", "Then ceased the mourning and the tears they shed."]}, {"id": "C4.63.50", "lines": ["Such are the ways the turning world has known;", "It never leaves the best of days our own."]}, {"id": "C4.63.51", "lines": ["It lifts one man from black earth to renown,", "And from the Kayanian throne casts others down."]}, {"id": "C4.63.52", "lines": ["For this, no joy; for that, no bitter pain:", "Such is the way of earth’s brief, fleeting reign."]}, {"id": "C4.63.53", "lines": ["Where are the kings and heroes of the past?", "Turn from these thoughts as long as strength shall last."]}, {"id": "C4.64.1", "lines": ["When escort troops returned with news of woe,", "Lohrasp learned what had passed with Kay Khosrow."]}, {"id": "C4.64.2", "lines": ["He sat with golden crown upon the throne,", "And heroes came with golden belts that shone."]}, {"id": "C4.64.3", "lines": ["When chiefs and lords had each assumed their place,", "Lohrasp rose up and looked on every face."]}, {"id": "C4.64.4", "lines": ["He spoke with feeling, open, clear, and plain,", "And said, “O leaders of the Shah’s domain,"]}, {"id": "C4.64.5", "lines": ["You all have heard the counsels of your king,", "The final charge his parting words now bring."]}, {"id": "C4.64.6", "lines": ["Whoever does not welcome my new reign", "Treats Khosrow’s final mandate with disdain."]}, {"id": "C4.64.7", "lines": ["All that he said and charged me I will do;", "I will seek good and keep his purpose true."]}, {"id": "C4.64.8", "lines": ["Reject no final charge he left behind,", "Nor keep your private counsels from my mind."]}, {"id": "C4.64.9", "lines": ["Before God’s sight, that man has chosen ill", "Who scorns a righteous monarch’s final will."]}, {"id": "C4.64.10", "lines": ["So speak whatever hidden thought you bear,", "Whether its root is generous or unfair.”"]}, {"id": "C4.64.11", "lines": ["Zal answered, “Kay Khosrow confirmed your claim,", "And raised you to the throne with royal name."]}, {"id": "C4.64.12", "lines": ["I hold his final words as sacred law;", "From his command I never shall withdraw."]}, {"id": "C4.64.13", "lines": ["You are the Shah; we are your servants all,", "And we will answer when your orders call."]}, {"id": "C4.64.14", "lines": ["I, Rostam, and the men of Zabul’s land", "Will keep our faith and serve at your command."]}, {"id": "C4.64.15", "lines": ["Whoever turns from this appointed way", "Shall find all good withdrawn from him that day.”"]}, {"id": "C4.64.16", "lines": ["When Zal had spoken, Lohrasp gave him praise,", "Then paused before the chieftains’ watchful gaze."]}, {"id": "C4.64.17", "lines": ["He said, “May God, the Judge of truth, sustain", "Your lives, and keep you free from loss and pain."]}, {"id": "C4.64.18", "lines": ["For God created you to clear away", "The face of evil from the light of day."]}, {"id": "C4.64.19", "lines": ["Before he left, Khosrow bestowed the land,", "And placed Nimruz beneath your ruling hand."]}, {"id": "C4.64.20", "lines": ["Beyond Nimruz, take lands on every side,", "As much as you require, both far and wide."]}, {"id": "C4.64.21", "lines": ["No boundary divides our wealth in two;", "Myself, my house, my kingdom join with you.”"]}, {"id": "C4.64.22", "lines": ["Then he said to Gudarz, “Speak out your mind;", "Let nothing in your heart remain confined.”"]}, {"id": "C4.64.23", "lines": ["Gudarz replied, “I stand bereft today;", "Rohham, Bijan, and Giv have passed away.”"]}, {"id": "C4.64.24", "lines": ["Then, overcome by anguish for his kin,", "He cried aloud from grief that burned within:"]}, {"id": "C4.64.25", "lines": ["“Alas for Giv, whose frame wore jowshan’s scale!", "For brave Bijan, whose sword made foes turn pale!”"]}, {"id": "C4.64.26", "lines": ["He spoke, then tore from head to foot that day", "His robes of Chin and Rum’s rich-woven array."]}, {"id": "C4.64.27", "lines": ["He told the nobles, “Blessed is the one", "Whose bed is dust when life’s harsh course is done."]}, {"id": "C4.64.28", "lines": ["I give assent to Zal’s discerning view;", "No hidden thought divides my heart from you."]}, {"id": "C4.64.29", "lines": ["You are the Shah, and we obey your hand;", "We shall keep faith and follow your command.”"]}, {"id": "C4.64.30", "lines": ["The chiefs called blessings down from earth to sky,", "And bowed before him as he stood on high."]}, {"id": "C4.64.31", "lines": ["At this, Lohrasp took comfort in his heart,", "Rose tall, renewed, and made a kingly start."]}, {"id": "C4.64.32", "lines": ["He chose a day of fortune, clear and bright,", "To set the royal crown in public sight."]}, {"id": "C4.64.33", "lines": ["As Fereydoon, of glorious birth and name,", "At Mehrgan wore the crown, he did the same."]}, {"id": "C4.64.34", "lines": ["He chose the day of Mehr, when autumn’s light", "Had passed the balance held by day and night."]}, {"id": "C4.64.35", "lines": ["He decked Kay Khosrow’s hall with royal care,", "And Iran took its luster from the heir."]}, {"id": "C4.64.36", "lines": ["Such is the world: all rise and fall below;", "One man is gladdened, one is brought to woe."]}, {"id": "C4.64.37", "lines": ["From it come joy and grief; their how and when,", "Their causes lie beyond the minds of men."]}, {"id": "C4.64.38", "lines": ["Now Kay Khosrow’s great tale has reached its end;", "To Shah Lohrasp’s deeds let us now attend."]}, {"id": "C4.64.39", "lines": ["His crown and court alike I celebrate,", "And place him on the throne to rule the state."]}, {"id": "C4.64.40", "lines": ["May triumph crown the sovereign’s lofty reign;", "From him we look for either good or pain."]}, {"id": "C4.64.41", "lines": ["He brings his friends the good for which they yearn,", "While harm awaits the false at every turn."]}, {"id": "C4.64.42", "lines": ["Such are the world’s old customs, such its ways;", "Let not its turns distress your passing days."]}, {"id": "C4.64.43", "lines": ["The heart grows rusty, wounded by its pain;", "Old wine can cleanse the heart of such a stain."]}, {"id": "C4.64.44", "lines": ["Though age may grip a man within its hold,", "Old wine makes young the man whom years made old."]}, {"id": "C4.64.45", "lines": ["Wine shows a man as he was born to be;", "The heart is locked, and wine provides the key."]}, {"id": "C4.64.46", "lines": ["Wine makes the timid bold, his fear defied;", "The fox becomes a lion, wild-eyed."]}, {"id": "C4.64.47", "lines": ["The grieving drink and find their spirits rise;", "Tears wash their cheeks like rain from clouded skies."]}, {"id": "C4.64.48", "lines": ["The man whose drinking brings him joy will sing,", "And seek the harp and music’s answering string."]}, {"id": "C4.64.49", "lines": ["I sing the ancient stories of the land,", "The words and deeds of men whose truth will stand."]}, {"id": "C4.64.50", "lines": ["Now hear the aged dehqan tell his lore;", "Learn each word well, and keep it at your core."]}]}, {"id": "C5", "title": "Lohrasp", "summary": "18 sections · 915 couplets", "path": "/poem/c5/", "couplets": [{"id": "C5.1.1", "lines": ["When Lohrasp sat upon the throne of right,", "He donned the royal crown before their sight."]}, {"id": "C5.1.2", "lines": ["He praised the Maker, deep in earnest prayer;", "His praise and supplication filled the air."]}, {"id": "C5.1.3", "lines": ["He said, “Hope in the Judge whose ways are just;", "Revere the Pure One, trembling, as you must."]}, {"id": "C5.1.4", "lines": ["He shaped the turning heavens, star by star,", "And grants His servant ever greater farr."]}, {"id": "C5.1.5", "lines": ["He made the earth, the mountains, and the seas,", "Then raised high heaven over all of these."]}, {"id": "C5.1.6", "lines": ["The Artist gave firm earth no feet to roam;", "It stands while heaven turns above its home."]}, {"id": "C5.1.7", "lines": ["Amid your pleasures Death, with sharpened claws,", "Lies like a lion near with hidden jaws."]}, {"id": "C5.1.8", "lines": ["So turn away from greed and worldly gain,", "And know how little mortals can explain."]}, {"id": "C5.1.9", "lines": ["In crown and kingship, every royal deed", "Must follow justice and wise counsel’s lead,"]}, {"id": "C5.1.10", "lines": ["Lest all we gain from this brief world below", "Be toil, revenge, and curses born of woe."]}, {"id": "C5.1.11", "lines": ["I shall do more than Kay Khosrow decreed,", "And cleanse my heart of vengeance, wrath, and greed."]}, {"id": "C5.1.12", "lines": ["Do likewise; justice makes the spirit glad;", "Let no revengeful purpose drive you mad.”"]}, {"id": "C5.1.13", "lines": ["The mighty called down blessings on his name,", "And hailed him monarch crowned with royal fame."]}, {"id": "C5.1.14", "lines": ["Great Lohrasp held calm wisdom, wealth, and might,", "And all his heart desired came to light."]}, {"id": "C5.1.15", "lines": ["Thereafter he sent envoys, each one bound", "For Rum, for Hind, for Chin, the world around."]}, {"id": "C5.1.16", "lines": ["They sought the learned, men of proven skill,", "Whose knowledge could fulfill the monarch’s will."]}, {"id": "C5.1.17", "lines": ["From every country, eager for the road,", "They hastened to the monarch’s own abode."]}, {"id": "C5.1.18", "lines": ["They tasted learning’s salt and bitter fruit,", "Then settled down in Balkh and there took root."]}, {"id": "C5.1.19", "lines": ["He built a city there with streets and squares,", "With markets, lanes, and busy thoroughfares."]}, {"id": "C5.1.20", "lines": ["Each quarter held a place for Sadeh’s rite,", "With fire-temples around it burning bright."]}, {"id": "C5.1.21", "lines": ["He raised a fire and gave it Barzin’s name,", "With fortune, grandeur, joy about its flame."]}, {"id": "C5.2.1", "lines": ["He had two sons, as bright as moons in grace,", "Both worthy of the crown and royal place."]}, {"id": "C5.2.2", "lines": ["One son was named Goshtasb, one named Zarir;", "Both conquered lions and knew no trace of fear."]}, {"id": "C5.2.3", "lines": ["In arts and lore, their father they surpassed;", "In war, all other men they had outclassed."]}, {"id": "C5.2.4", "lines": ["Two other princes, fortunate and grand,", "Kay Kavus’s grandsons, graced the royal band."]}, {"id": "C5.2.5", "lines": ["Lohrasp took joy in that distinguished pair,", "And left Goshtasb neglected in despair."]}, {"id": "C5.2.6", "lines": ["Goshtasb’s head swelled with vanity and pride;", "This grieved Lohrasp, and heavily he sighed."]}, {"id": "C5.2.7", "lines": ["As time went on, resentment filled his mind;", "His father’s conduct seemed to him unkind."]}, {"id": "C5.2.8", "lines": ["One day in Pars they set the royal seat", "Beneath a tree that scattered blossoms sweet."]}, {"id": "C5.2.9", "lines": ["Lohrasp commanded that the chiefs appear;", "The leaders of his warriors gathered near."]}, {"id": "C5.2.10", "lines": ["They called for wine beside the royal board,", "And brought delight to their world-ruling lord."]}, {"id": "C5.2.11", "lines": ["Goshtasb drank wine, then rose before their sight,", "And spoke: “O Shah, whose rule is just and right,"]}, {"id": "C5.2.12", "lines": ["May your accession to the throne be blessed;", "May lasting fame forever crown your crest."]}, {"id": "C5.2.13", "lines": ["God gave you crown and belt to mark your state;", "So did just Kay Khosrow, the good and great."]}, {"id": "C5.2.14", "lines": ["Now here I stand, a slave before your gate,", "A servant of your crown and royal fate."]}, {"id": "C5.2.15", "lines": ["Among the men who face my sword in fight,", "One warrior alone exceeds my might:"]}, {"id": "C5.2.16", "lines": ["That one is Rostam, Zal’s son, Sahm’s heir;", "No man alive can with his strength compare."]}, {"id": "C5.2.17", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow took thought for you that day,", "He gave you throne and crown, then passed away."]}, {"id": "C5.2.18", "lines": ["If I am worthy, name me next in line;", "Then let the Kayanian crown, throne be mine."]}, {"id": "C5.2.19", "lines": ["I still will stand before you as your slave,", "And hail you sovereign, generous and brave.”"]}, {"id": "C5.2.20", "lines": ["Lohrasp replied, “My son, attend my word:", "Among the great, such rage is deemed absurd."]}, {"id": "C5.2.21", "lines": ["I still recall what Kay Khosrow advised;", "Hear him and let no justice be despised."]}, {"id": "C5.2.22", "lines": ["That righteous king spoke of a garden stream", "Where springtime flowers in their splendor gleam:"]}, {"id": "C5.2.23", "lines": ["‘As water feeds the stream, its strength will grow,", "And all the garden suffers from its flow.’"]}, {"id": "C5.2.24", "lines": ["You still are young; do not aspire so high;", "Speak measured words and let your anger die.”"]}, {"id": "C5.2.25", "lines": ["Goshtasb, on hearing, left his father’s sight,", "His face grown pale, his heart in sorrow’s plight."]}, {"id": "C5.2.26", "lines": ["He cried, “Then cherish strangers near your throne,", "And cast aside the offspring of your own.”"]}, {"id": "C5.2.27", "lines": ["He had three hundred horsemen in his train,", "All warriors, ready for the battle’s strain."]}, {"id": "C5.2.28", "lines": ["He summoned them, and when they gathered near,", "Revealed his secret purpose, fierce and clear."]}, {"id": "C5.2.29", "lines": ["He said, “Prepare to leave the court tonight;", "Tear this court from your hearts and from your sight.”"]}, {"id": "C5.2.30", "lines": ["One asked him, “Where do you intend to go?", "What shelter waits beyond the lands we know?”"]}, {"id": "C5.2.31", "lines": ["He said, “In Hind they will receive me well,", "In joy and peace of mind I mean to dwell."]}, {"id": "C5.2.32", "lines": ["The king of Hind has sent a letter here,", "On silk, in script of black musk, fine and clear."]}, {"id": "C5.2.33", "lines": ["It says, ‘Come here; your servant I shall be,", "And never turn from what you ask of me.’”"]}, {"id": "C5.2.34", "lines": ["When night came down, he mounted with his band,", "And left in wrath, his gorz within his hand."]}, {"id": "C5.2.35", "lines": ["At dawn Lohrasp was told what he had done;", "His joy was ended with the morning sun."]}, {"id": "C5.2.36", "lines": ["He called the veterans of the royal line,", "And told them all with grief in every sign."]}, {"id": "C5.2.37", "lines": ["“See what Goshtasb did,” he sadly said;", "“He pained my heart and poured dust on my head."]}, {"id": "C5.2.38", "lines": ["I reared him till no equal could be found;", "Peerless he stood across the world’s broad ground."]}, {"id": "C5.2.39", "lines": ["But when I thought, ‘My tree bears fruit at last,’", "Beyond my garden’s bounds the wanderer passed.”"]}, {"id": "C5.2.40", "lines": ["He pondered long, then called for brave Zarir,", "And bade his son approach and lend an ear."]}, {"id": "C5.2.41", "lines": ["He said, “Choose from the army’s strength and might", "A thousand horsemen, proven in the fight."]}, {"id": "C5.2.42", "lines": ["Ride swiftly toward Hindustan; may no land", "Become a place where sorcerers command.”"]}, {"id": "C5.2.43", "lines": ["Nohzar’s son Gostaham took Rum’s far way;", "Toward Chin, Guraza sped without delay."]}, {"id": "C5.3.1", "lines": ["Goshtasb, the prince, with eyes by weeping red,", "Rode on in wrath before the men he led."]}, {"id": "C5.3.2", "lines": ["He pressed ahead until Kabul was near,", "Where trees and blossoms lined the waters clear."]}, {"id": "C5.3.3", "lines": ["They halted in that pleasant place one day,", "And rested from the toil of their long way."]}, {"id": "C5.3.4", "lines": ["The mountain slopes were filled with roaming game,", "The streams like milk and sparkling wine became."]}, {"id": "C5.3.5", "lines": ["At night he bade the cupbearers bring wine,", "And set bright lamps along the river’s line."]}, {"id": "C5.3.6", "lines": ["When sunlight rose above the wooded place,", "They left with hawk and cheetah for the chase."]}, {"id": "C5.3.7", "lines": ["They left their steeds; the riders, brave and tried,", "Lay sleeping, many by the water’s side."]}, {"id": "C5.3.8", "lines": ["Zarir rode headlong in pursuit, and pressed", "His way, and scarcely paused to take his rest."]}, {"id": "C5.3.9", "lines": ["The hunters turned from field and wooded ground;", "The neighing of the steeds rose all around."]}, {"id": "C5.3.10", "lines": ["Goshtasb gave ear, then spoke before the throng", "Of famous chiefs who rode with him along:"]}, {"id": "C5.3.11", "lines": ["“That neigh can only come from Zarir’s horse;", "It has a lion’s voice in all its force."]}, {"id": "C5.3.12", "lines": ["If he has come, he has not come alone,", "But with a force whose gallant ranks are known.”"]}, {"id": "C5.3.13", "lines": ["As he spoke, clouds of violet dust appeared;", "An elephant upon the standard reared."]}, {"id": "C5.3.14", "lines": ["Zarir came at the head of all his men,", "Like rushing wind along the road again."]}, {"id": "C5.3.15", "lines": ["He saw Goshtasb, left his men behind,", "And hurried there on foot, with eager mind."]}, {"id": "C5.3.16", "lines": ["He thanked the Maker, grateful for His aid,", "And to his brother reverent homage paid."]}, {"id": "C5.3.17", "lines": ["The brothers clasped each other, freed from woe,", "Then sat rejoicing where the meadows grow."]}, {"id": "C5.3.18", "lines": ["The foremost chiefs who led the troops that day", "Called brave Goshtasb their Shah and would obey."]}, {"id": "C5.3.19", "lines": ["They called the chiefs and seated them to hear", "The talk of all that passed in every sphere."]}, {"id": "C5.3.20", "lines": ["One noble spoke before the gathered band:", "“O gold-girt hero, hear and understand."]}, {"id": "C5.3.21", "lines": ["The readers of the stars in Iran tell", "Your coming fortune, and they know it well:"]}, {"id": "C5.3.22", "lines": ["That you shall equal Kay Khosrow in fame,", "And rise upon a throne of royal name."]}, {"id": "C5.3.23", "lines": ["We cannot then consent that you should stand", "Subject to Hindustan’s foreign command."]}, {"id": "C5.3.24", "lines": ["None there adores the Maker of the land;", "Not one will join with you in heart and hand."]}, {"id": "C5.3.25", "lines": ["Can wisdom call such counsel just or sane,", "To make a Shah submit to foreign reign?"]}, {"id": "C5.3.26", "lines": ["Your father holds you in the highest place;", "I know no cause for anger or disgrace.”"]}, {"id": "C5.3.27", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “O seeker after fame,", "My father gives no honor to my name."]}, {"id": "C5.3.28", "lines": ["He keeps his kindness, majesty, and crown", "For Kavus’s offspring, raising their renown."]}, {"id": "C5.3.29", "lines": ["For you and me no place remains at all;", "He means to keep us servants in his hall."]}, {"id": "C5.3.30", "lines": ["Zarir, for your sake I will roam no more,", "Though wrath at Lohrasp burns me to the core."]}, {"id": "C5.3.31", "lines": ["If he bestows Iran’s great crown on me,", "His slave, as men serve idols, I shall be."]}, {"id": "C5.3.32", "lines": ["But if he does not, I shall leave his side;", "No hope or love shall make me there abide."]}, {"id": "C5.3.33", "lines": ["I shall escape his search and leave behind", "His land and wealth, with fixed and settled mind.”"]}, {"id": "C5.3.34", "lines": ["This said, he turned his horse toward home that day,", "And rode toward Lohrasp’s court without delay."]}, {"id": "C5.3.35", "lines": ["When word of this at last reached Lohrasp’s ear,", "He rode with chiefs and troops to meet him near."]}, {"id": "C5.3.36", "lines": ["The prince beheld his father, drawing rein;", "Dismounted, paid him homage on the plain."]}, {"id": "C5.3.37", "lines": ["Lohrasp embraced him, glad to hold him tight,", "And heard his pleas for pardon with delight."]}, {"id": "C5.3.38", "lines": ["“May your crown, crown the moon in heaven’s blue;", "May every Div keep its hand far from you."]}, {"id": "C5.3.39", "lines": ["May it not teach you evil, nor mislead,", "Like wicked counselors whose kings take heed."]}, {"id": "C5.3.40", "lines": ["The crown and throne are mine in name alone;", "Command, love, fortune, fealty are your own.”"]}, {"id": "C5.3.41", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “My sovereign, hear me now:", "I stand a servant at your gate and bow."]}, {"id": "C5.3.42", "lines": ["Though you abase me, I shall keep my word;", "My soul stands hostage to the pledge you heard.”"]}, {"id": "C5.3.43", "lines": ["The chiefs who followed him upon the road", "Returned rejoicing to the Shah’s abode."]}, {"id": "C5.3.44", "lines": ["The jeweled banquet hall was well prepared;", "They spread the board, and fragrant wines were shared."]}, {"id": "C5.3.45", "lines": ["They made a feast of such resplendent light,", "Stars rained upon it from the moon’s great height."]}, {"id": "C5.3.46", "lines": ["Each chieftain, flushed with wine and joy, was led", "To wear a crown of roses on his head."]}, {"id": "C5.3.47", "lines": ["Yet still Lohrasp preferred that royal race,", "Kay Kavus’s line and Khosrow’s lasting grace."]}, {"id": "C5.3.48", "lines": ["Goshtasb wept blood in anguish and despair,", "And told his counselor of every care."]}, {"id": "C5.3.49", "lines": ["He said, “However hard I try to find", "A remedy, no course will serve my mind."]}, {"id": "C5.3.50", "lines": ["If I take horsemen, he will send a force,", "Led by a chief, to halt my chosen course."]}, {"id": "C5.3.51", "lines": ["With pleas and counsel, he will turn me round,", "And bring me back again to this same ground."]}, {"id": "C5.3.52", "lines": ["If I go with no escort, shame will cling;", "My heart is sore against Lohrasp the king."]}, {"id": "C5.3.53", "lines": ["His heart delights in Kavus’s royal race;", "His love for his own offspring finds no place."]}, {"id": "C5.3.54", "lines": ["If I go forth alone, how can he know", "What comes of me, or find the way I go?”"]}, {"id": "C5.4.1", "lines": ["At night Goshtasb saddled Shabdiz the steed,", "His father’s horse, and bridled him with speed."]}, {"id": "C5.4.2", "lines": ["He wore a Roman robe of golden thread,", "A homa plume upon his crowned head."]}, {"id": "C5.4.3", "lines": ["He took gold coins and jewels for his need,", "Enough to serve him where his road might lead."]}, {"id": "C5.4.4", "lines": ["He left Iran and turned toward Rum alone,", "To seek a path to kingship of his own."]}, {"id": "C5.4.5", "lines": ["When word of Goshtasb’s flight Lohrasp had heard,", "His joy was ended, and his heart was stirred."]}, {"id": "C5.4.6", "lines": ["He called the wise men, bidding them draw near,", "And spoke at length of Goshtasb’s course with fear."]}, {"id": "C5.4.7", "lines": ["He said, “This lion-hearted prince will rise,", "And cast down crowns before their monarchs’ eyes."]}, {"id": "C5.4.8", "lines": ["What course is best? What counsel do you choose?", "Do not make light of what we stand to lose.”"]}, {"id": "C5.4.9", "lines": ["A Mobad said, “O favored king of fate,", "All men desire the crown and royal state."]}, {"id": "C5.4.10", "lines": ["No father ever had a son so rare;", "No age has heard of such a royal heir."]}, {"id": "C5.4.11", "lines": ["Through him your kingdom’s power and reach have grown;", "For fear of him your foes are overthrown."]}, {"id": "C5.4.12", "lines": ["Send valiant nobles out on every side,", "Let able men through every country ride."]}, {"id": "C5.4.13", "lines": ["If he returns, be generous, not stern;", "Seek worth, and do not fight the heavens’ turn."]}, {"id": "C5.4.14", "lines": ["For many men like you the throne have known;", "The crown will never serve one king alone."]}, {"id": "C5.4.15", "lines": ["Give him an army, fit for him to guide,", "And crown him; let him over all preside."]}, {"id": "C5.4.16", "lines": ["We see no horseman bearing such a name,", "Save Rostam, Pahlevan of deathless fame."]}, {"id": "C5.4.17", "lines": ["In stature, wisdom, beauty, sense, and worth,", "No man has seen his equal on the earth.”"]}, {"id": "C5.4.18", "lines": ["Lohrasp sent chiefs to search through every land;", "They went their several ways by his command."]}, {"id": "C5.4.19", "lines": ["In time they all returned; none found his trail,", "Slow-turning fortune made their searching fail."]}, {"id": "C5.4.20", "lines": ["The blame was his: Lohrasp had caused the strain;", "Goshtasb bore the sorrow and the pain."]}, {"id": "C5.5.1", "lines": ["Goshtasb dismounted when he reached the coast,", "And saw the toll-man standing at his post."]}, {"id": "C5.5.2", "lines": ["The keeper’s name was Hishvi, old and wise,", "A generous man with keen and watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "C5.5.3", "lines": ["Goshtasb saluted: “May your spirit bright", "Keep wisdom as its mate and walk in light."]}, {"id": "C5.5.4", "lines": ["A noted scribe from Iran comes to you,", "Wise, quick to learn, and clear in judgment too."]}, {"id": "C5.5.5", "lines": ["To ferry me across would earn my praise,", "A favor I shall honor all my days.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.6", "lines": ["Then Hishvi said, “A crown befits your might,", "Or jowshan, sword, and plunder won in fight."]}, {"id": "C5.5.7", "lines": ["Reveal your secret; tell me what you hide;", "Do not seek passage thus across the tide."]}, {"id": "C5.5.8", "lines": ["A gift is needed, if the truth you tell;", "Where is the scribe’s demeanor, known so well?”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.9", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “No secret lies with me;", "I hide from you no truth that you should see."]}, {"id": "C5.5.10", "lines": ["This coronet, my seal, my sword, my gold;", "Choose what you wish from all the wealth I hold.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.11", "lines": ["He gave some coins to Hishvi for his aid;", "The keeper smiled, delighted to be paid."]}, {"id": "C5.5.12", "lines": ["He quickly raised the sail and crossed the spume,", "And bore the prince toward Caesar’s realm of Rum."]}, {"id": "C5.5.13", "lines": ["A city stood in Rum, renowned and wide;", "More than three farsangs spanned it side to side."]}, {"id": "C5.5.14", "lines": ["Great Salm had built that city long before,", "A seat of mighty Caesars famed in lore."]}, {"id": "C5.5.15", "lines": ["Goshtasb came and searched the city through,", "To find a place where he had work to do."]}, {"id": "C5.5.16", "lines": ["For seven days he wandered, seeking hire,", "Through thriving Rum, yet gained not his desire."]}, {"id": "C5.5.17", "lines": ["When all he had was spent or given away,", "He sighed and wandered, vexed, from day to day."]}, {"id": "C5.5.18", "lines": ["He wandered through the thriving city vast,", "Till to the court of Caesar’s scribes he passed."]}, {"id": "C5.5.19", "lines": ["He told the bishop, “Help me make a start;", "I come from Iran, trained in scribal art."]}, {"id": "C5.5.20", "lines": ["Whatever task you give, I shall fulfill;", "Assign the office-work that suits your will.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.21", "lines": ["The scribes within that office looked around,", "And stared at one another without sound."]}, {"id": "C5.5.22", "lines": ["“A steel pen would shed tears for such a man;", "A page would scorch before his work began."]}, {"id": "C5.5.23", "lines": ["He needs a lofty charger for his ride,", "A bow in hand, a kamand at his side.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.24", "lines": ["They cried, “No scribe is wanted here today;", "Leave us at once and quickly take your way.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.25", "lines": ["Goshtasb departed, sad and sorely pressed,", "His cheeks grown pale, his heart denied its rest."]}, {"id": "C5.5.26", "lines": ["He heaved a bitter sigh and turned aside,", "And hurried where the royal herds would bide."]}, {"id": "C5.5.27", "lines": ["The herdsman’s name was Nastad, brave and just,", "A generous man of wisdom, worth, and trust."]}, {"id": "C5.5.28", "lines": ["Goshtasb approached with gracious words to greet", "The herdsman, bowing homage at his feet."]}, {"id": "C5.5.29", "lines": ["The herdsman welcomed him and bade him rest;", "He gave the seat beside him to his guest."]}, {"id": "C5.5.30", "lines": ["He asked, “Who are you, with that royal face,", "So kingly in your bearing and your grace?”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.31", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “My lord, I ride with skill;", "I train young horses, strong in heart and will."]}, {"id": "C5.5.32", "lines": ["Accept me, and I shall be useful here,", "And stand beside you when distress is near.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.33", "lines": ["Nastad replied, “Go on. You are unknown,", "A stranger with no standing of your own."]}, {"id": "C5.5.34", "lines": ["Here are wide deserts, sea, and steeds at large;", "How can I trust their keeping to your charge?”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.35", "lines": ["He clenched his fist and beat his chest in grief,", "And left the herdsman, finding no relief."]}, {"id": "C5.5.36", "lines": ["He said, “Whoever makes his father grieve", "Will in return far worse distress receive.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.37", "lines": ["He hurried to the keepers of the train,", "The camel-masters of the Roman plain."]}, {"id": "C5.5.38", "lines": ["He hailed the keeper: “May your mind be bright,", "And may your spirit dwell in wisdom’s light.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.39", "lines": ["That wise man, when he saw Goshtasb, drew near,", "And chose a place to seat him with good cheer."]}, {"id": "C5.5.40", "lines": ["He quickly spread a carpet for his guest,", "And brought the food he had to serve him best."]}, {"id": "C5.5.41", "lines": ["Goshtasb addressed the keeper of the train:", "“O man whose wakeful mind is bright and sane,"]}, {"id": "C5.5.42", "lines": ["Give me a camel train, placed in my care;", "Assign whatever wage you judge is fair.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.43", "lines": ["The keeper said, “O man of noble frame,", "This humble work is far beneath your name."]}, {"id": "C5.5.44", "lines": ["Why take the work we do, with all its weight?", "Far better seek the court at Caesar’s gate."]}, {"id": "C5.5.45", "lines": ["He will provide the means to meet your need;", "Go only to his court, and there succeed."]}, {"id": "C5.5.46", "lines": ["If you have lost the way, I have a guide,", "And worthy camels here for you to ride.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.47", "lines": ["Goshtasb gave thanks to him and turned away,", "Distressed, and started cityward that day."]}, {"id": "C5.5.48", "lines": ["His sufferings lay heavy on his heart;", "He sought the smiths’ bazaar and iron art."]}, {"id": "C5.5.49", "lines": ["A noted smith named Burab forged his ware,", "Contented, known for craftsmanship and care."]}, {"id": "C5.5.50", "lines": ["He made the shoes the royal horses wore,", "And held an honored place at Caesar’s door."]}, {"id": "C5.5.51", "lines": ["He kept some five-and-thirty in his train,", "Apprentices who labored might and main."]}, {"id": "C5.5.52", "lines": ["Goshtasb sat long within the smithy’s glow,", "Until the craftsman wished that he would go."]}, {"id": "C5.5.53", "lines": ["The smith said, “Good man, why sit waiting here?", "What do you seek? Explain and make it clear.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.54", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “Good fortune on your skill!", "No hammer or hard work shall break my will."]}, {"id": "C5.5.55", "lines": ["If you will keep me, I shall lend a hand;", "This hammer and this anvil I command.”"]}, {"id": "C5.5.56", "lines": ["When Burab heard the prince explain his aim,", "He took him as a helper at the flame."]}, {"id": "C5.5.57", "lines": ["He heated up a heavy iron ball,", "Then brought it to the anvil in the stall."]}, {"id": "C5.5.58", "lines": ["They gave Goshtasb a hammer, hard to bear;", "The smiths assembled round to watch and stare."]}, {"id": "C5.5.59", "lines": ["He struck; the ball and anvil split in two;", "Throughout the market, talk and wonder grew."]}, {"id": "C5.5.60", "lines": ["Burab grew frightened: “Young man, you are strong;", "No forge or anvil bears such blows for long,"]}, {"id": "C5.5.61", "lines": ["Nor hammer, iron, stone, or bellows will!”", "Goshtasb heard; his heart grew darker still."]}, {"id": "C5.5.62", "lines": ["He flung the hammer down, and hungry fled,", "Without a meal or place to lay his head."]}, {"id": "C5.5.63", "lines": ["No hardship lasts, no treasure will remain;", "Nor ease nor joy endures, nor toil nor pain."]}, {"id": "C5.5.64", "lines": ["Both good and evil pass; they do not last;", "The wise will never let grief hold them fast."]}, {"id": "C5.6.1", "lines": ["Goshtasb, in sorrow, railed against the sky,", "His troubled heart sent up a bitter cry."]}, {"id": "C5.6.2", "lines": ["The world had given poison as his share;", "Close by the city lay a village fair,"]}, {"id": "C5.6.3", "lines": ["With trees and flowers, running waters clear,", "A place to bring a young man rest and cheer."]}, {"id": "C5.6.4", "lines": ["A thick-leaved tree stood by the water’s flow;", "Its shade concealed the sun from those below."]}, {"id": "C5.6.5", "lines": ["Beneath its branches sat the troubled youth,", "And pondered grief and fortune’s bitter truth."]}, {"id": "C5.6.6", "lines": ["He said, “Almighty Judge, grief is my share;", "My fortune grants no cure for my despair."]}, {"id": "C5.6.7", "lines": ["I see my star is evil overhead,", "Yet know not why such ills fall on my head.”"]}, {"id": "C5.6.8", "lines": ["A noble from that village passed that way,", "Its chief, whom all its people would obey."]}, {"id": "C5.6.9", "lines": ["Goshtasb sat, chin in hand, bowed down by woe;", "His eyes were red with tears that would not slow."]}, {"id": "C5.6.10", "lines": ["The chief asked, “Noble youth, why do you grieve?", "What sorrow darkens you and will not leave?"]}, {"id": "C5.6.11", "lines": ["If you would come with me, remain and rest,", "Within my hall, my honored, welcome guest."]}, {"id": "C5.6.12", "lines": ["Perhaps your grief will fade as comfort nears,", "Your arrow-pointed lashes dry their tears.”"]}, {"id": "C5.6.13", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “My lord, first let me know", "Your lineage, and the root from which you grow.”"]}, {"id": "C5.6.14", "lines": ["The householder replied, “What do you seek", "By asking this? What purpose makes you speak?"]}, {"id": "C5.6.15", "lines": ["I spring from Fereydoon, the warrior king;", "None counts as small who comes from such a spring.”"]}, {"id": "C5.6.16", "lines": ["Goshtasb, on hearing this, rose up and went", "With him, his bitter sorrow partly spent."]}, {"id": "C5.6.17", "lines": ["The chief returned with him, his welcome warm;", "His hall was graced by that young stranger’s form."]}, {"id": "C5.6.18", "lines": ["He treated him as brother at his side,", "And granted every wish; none was denied."]}, {"id": "C5.6.19", "lines": ["Time passed while Goshtasb lived there as his guest;", "And month on month went by in ease and rest."]}, {"id": "C5.7.1", "lines": ["At that time, Caesar kept a certain way:", "When daughters reached the bloom of bridal day,"]}, {"id": "C5.7.2", "lines": ["If stars had favored them with grace and light,", "And he perceived that marriage time was right,"]}, {"id": "C5.7.3", "lines": ["He gathered in his palace all the great,", "The sages, counselors, and men of state,"]}, {"id": "C5.7.4", "lines": ["All nobles of sufficient rank and birth,", "With men of name and houses rich in worth."]}, {"id": "C5.7.5", "lines": ["The moon-faced princess crossed her father’s hall,", "To choose a spouse among the princes all."]}, {"id": "C5.7.6", "lines": ["Yet maidens ringed her closely in a crowd,", "Her crown concealed behind that living shroud."]}, {"id": "C5.7.7", "lines": ["He had three daughters, each a springtime rose,", "Tall, pure, and fair as any bloom that grows."]}, {"id": "C5.7.8", "lines": ["Tall, fair, and gentle, skilled in every art,", "They carried modesty in mind and heart."]}, {"id": "C5.7.9", "lines": ["The eldest was the princess Katayun,", "Bright-hearted, wise, and lovely as the moon."]}, {"id": "C5.7.10", "lines": ["One night she dreamed the land was filled with light,", "The sun had made the whole wide country bright."]}, {"id": "C5.7.11", "lines": ["A throng of men appeared before her eyes,", "As thick as clustered stars within the skies."]}, {"id": "C5.7.12", "lines": ["A stranger stood before that gathered band,", "Wise, sorrowful, and from a foreign land."]}, {"id": "C5.7.13", "lines": ["In height a cypress, moonlike in his face,", "He sat as kings sit in their royal place."]}, {"id": "C5.7.14", "lines": ["She gave the youth her flowers, and she chose", "His fragrant blossoms, bright, in place of those."]}, {"id": "C5.7.15", "lines": ["Next day, the sun arose and ended night;", "The nobles woke beneath its spreading light."]}, {"id": "C5.7.16", "lines": ["Then Caesar summoned to his palace hall", "The bold and mighty, gathering them all."]}, {"id": "C5.7.17", "lines": ["They took their seats in gladness and good cheer;", "Then called the fair-faced maiden to appear."]}, {"id": "C5.7.18", "lines": ["Then Katayun came with her maiden band,", "With sixty girls, a bouquet in her hand."]}, {"id": "C5.7.19", "lines": ["She wandered there until her strength was worn,", "But none appeared like him the dream had borne."]}, {"id": "C5.7.20", "lines": ["She went in state back to her private room,", "Yet wept; her yearning heart was steeped in gloom."]}, {"id": "C5.7.21", "lines": ["The earth grew dark as ravens’ wings in flight,", "Until the sun rose over mountain height."]}, {"id": "C5.7.22", "lines": ["Then Caesar bade men of a lesser place,", "The wealthy chiefs of Rum, come show their face."]}, {"id": "C5.7.23", "lines": ["Perhaps some comely man might win her choice,", "And make her heart in choosing him rejoice."]}, {"id": "C5.7.24", "lines": ["The summons reached each chief throughout the land,", "Each man of name and warrior of command."]}, {"id": "C5.7.25", "lines": ["His wise friend asked, “Why linger hidden here?", "Come leave this solitude and seek some cheer."]}, {"id": "C5.7.26", "lines": ["Go see the royal crown and throne displayed;", "Perhaps your heart’s deep grief will start to fade.”"]}, {"id": "C5.7.27", "lines": ["Goshtasb went with him without delay,", "And toward the hall of Caesar made his way."]}, {"id": "C5.7.28", "lines": ["Below the nobles, in a nook apart,", "He sat exhausted, sorrow in his heart."]}, {"id": "C5.7.29", "lines": ["The chamber-servants entered, swift and fleet,", "Then Katayun came with her rosy suite."]}, {"id": "C5.7.30", "lines": ["Across the hall she searched; each face she scanned;", "Before, behind her moved the maiden band."]}, {"id": "C5.7.31", "lines": ["She saw Goshtasb and cried, “Before my eyes", "The hidden meaning of my dream now lies!”"]}, {"id": "C5.7.32", "lines": ["She took the crown and set it on his head,", "Rejoicing in the man she chose to wed."]}, {"id": "C5.7.33", "lines": ["Her minister and tutor saw her choice,", "And ran to Caesar, wonder in his voice."]}, {"id": "C5.7.34", "lines": ["“She chose a man from all the gathered crowd,", "Tall as a cypress, noble, bearing proud."]}, {"id": "C5.7.35", "lines": ["His face a rose-garden, his shoulders broad,", "All who behold his form are overawed."]}, {"id": "C5.7.36", "lines": ["Yet who he is, we cannot rightly say;", "God’s royal farr shines through him like the day.”"]}, {"id": "C5.7.37", "lines": ["The Caesar answered, “May no daughter’s name", "Bring on her noble lineage such shame."]}, {"id": "C5.7.38", "lines": ["If I should grant this man my daughter’s hand,", "My head would bow in shame throughout the land."]}, {"id": "C5.7.39", "lines": ["Behead them both within this palace wall:", "My daughter and the man she chose from all.”"]}, {"id": "C5.7.40", "lines": ["The bishop said, “This is no weighty thing;", "Before you many a lord has ruled as king."]}, {"id": "C5.7.41", "lines": ["You told her, ‘Choose the man you wish to wed,’", "Not, ‘Choose a Roman with an honored head.’"]}, {"id": "C5.7.42", "lines": ["She chose the one who pleased her in the hall;", "Submit to God’s own will above us all."]}, {"id": "C5.7.43", "lines": ["Your fathers kept this custom long ago,", "Upright and pure in faith, as well you know."]}, {"id": "C5.7.44", "lines": ["On such a custom Rum’s foundations stand;", "Do not adopt new counsels in this land."]}, {"id": "C5.7.45", "lines": ["This bodes no good; speak otherwise, I pray,", "And do not tread this strange and trackless way.”"]}, {"id": "C5.8.1", "lines": ["When Caesar heard, he fixed his will that day:", "He wed the pair and sent them on their way."]}, {"id": "C5.8.2", "lines": ["He said, “Go with her as you stand, no more;", "I give no crown, no signet, gold, or store.”"]}, {"id": "C5.8.3", "lines": ["Goshtasb saw this and stood in stunned surprise,", "And called upon the Maker of the skies."]}, {"id": "C5.8.4", "lines": ["He spoke to noble Katayun in pain:", "“You have been sheltered from all want and strain."]}, {"id": "C5.8.5", "lines": ["What moved you here to make your choice of me,", "Among these chiefs and crowns of high degree?"]}, {"id": "C5.8.6", "lines": ["The man you chose is destitute, alone;", "With him no wealth, but hardship, will be known."]}, {"id": "C5.8.7", "lines": ["Choose one your equal from these noble men,", "And win your father’s favor back again.”"]}, {"id": "C5.8.8", "lines": ["But Katayun replied, “O doubting heart,", "Do not rage at the sky or fortune’s part."]}, {"id": "C5.8.9", "lines": ["If I am pleased with you and with my fate,", "Why seek for crown and throne and royal state?”"]}, {"id": "C5.8.10", "lines": ["They left the palace, both weighed down by grief,", "And in their sorrow sought the village-chief."]}, {"id": "C5.8.11", "lines": ["The village-chief addressed the grieving pair:", "“Be glad, contented with the life you share.”"]}, {"id": "C5.8.12", "lines": ["He cleared a dwelling for them in the place,", "With food and furnishings to fill its space."]}, {"id": "C5.8.13", "lines": ["Goshtasb saw all his kindness and expressed", "His thanks and praised the man who gave them rest."]}, {"id": "C5.8.14", "lines": ["Now Katayun had gems in ample store,", "With ornaments and jewels more and more."]}, {"id": "C5.8.15", "lines": ["From these she chose a jewel, rare and fine;", "No expert eye had seen its equal shine."]}, {"id": "C5.8.16", "lines": ["They bore it to a jeweler, skilled and wise,", "Who took it, full of thanks for such a prize."]}, {"id": "C5.8.17", "lines": ["He paid six thousand dinars for the stone,", "A ruby worth the treasures of a throne."]}, {"id": "C5.8.18", "lines": ["They bought the things required for daily life,", "Enough to meet their needs through want and strife."]}, {"id": "C5.8.19", "lines": ["They lived upon the money thus obtained,", "At times in joy, at times by sorrow pained."]}, {"id": "C5.8.20", "lines": ["Goshtasb devoted every day to chase;", "With bow and quiver rode from place to place."]}, {"id": "C5.8.21", "lines": ["Once, coming from the hunt along the road,", "He passed by Hishvi’s welcoming abode."]}, {"id": "C5.8.22", "lines": ["He carried several kinds of game that day,", "His quiver full of arrows on the way."]}, {"id": "C5.8.23", "lines": ["He bore the quarry of the hunt, and all", "Of every kind he carried to that hall."]}, {"id": "C5.8.24", "lines": ["When Hishvi saw him, joy lit up his face;", "He ran to greet the prince with warm embrace."]}, {"id": "C5.8.25", "lines": ["He spread a carpet, laid out all his fare,", "And bade Goshtasb sit down and take his share."]}, {"id": "C5.8.26", "lines": ["He ate and rested, then rose up that day,", "And went to Katayun without delay."]}, {"id": "C5.8.27", "lines": ["Goshtasb made wise Hishvi his close friend,", "Like flesh and skin, their lives began to blend."]}, {"id": "C5.8.28", "lines": ["Whenever he went out to hunt the game,", "Two shares to Hishvi went when home he came."]}, {"id": "C5.8.29", "lines": ["The other share went to the village head,", "Who ranked the highest of all those he led."]}, {"id": "C5.8.30", "lines": ["Thus he and that good village-chief could live", "With shared meals, rest, and counsel each would give."]}, {"id": "C5.9.1", "lines": ["There lived in Rum a noble of high fame,", "Rich, wise; Murin the Roman was his name."]}, {"id": "C5.9.2", "lines": ["He sent to Caesar: “Wealth and rank are mine;", "Let not my name beneath the heavens decline."]}, {"id": "C5.9.3", "lines": ["Bestow your lovely daughter as my bride,", "Renew your name and crown, through me allied.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.4", "lines": ["The Caesar said, “No more shall I allow", "A marriage like the one that grieves me now."]}, {"id": "C5.9.5", "lines": ["Katayun and that man of low estate", "Have made me close to such a match the gate."]}, {"id": "C5.9.6", "lines": ["Now any man who seeks my house by name,", "Or wants before me to exalt his fame,"]}, {"id": "C5.9.7", "lines": ["Must do some mighty deed that all will prize,", "So folk may praise his courage to the skies."]}, {"id": "C5.9.8", "lines": ["So he will win renown throughout the land,", "And I shall gain an ally at my hand."]}, {"id": "C5.9.9", "lines": ["Let him seek Faskun’s forest, there to steep", "His heart and hands and mind in bloodshed deep."]}, {"id": "C5.9.10", "lines": ["There he will see a wolf, all indigo,", "A dragon’s frame, an elephant’s strength to show."]}, {"id": "C5.9.11", "lines": ["It has two horns, with boar-like tusks in place;", "The elephants themselves avoid its face."]}, {"id": "C5.9.12", "lines": ["No lion, elephant, or daring man", "Will cross that wood; none ventures where it ran."]}, {"id": "C5.9.13", "lines": ["Whoever tears that wolf’s great hide apart", "Shall be my son-in-law and friend at heart.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.14", "lines": ["Murin replied, “Within this noble land,", "Since Rum was founded by the Maker’s hand,"]}, {"id": "C5.9.15", "lines": ["Our fathers wielded heavy gorzes when", "They fought with mighty lords and noble men."]}, {"id": "C5.9.16", "lines": ["What does the Caesar seek from me today?", "Does malice drive the words he chose to say?"]}, {"id": "C5.9.17", "lines": ["I will use craft and prudent counsel still,", "And weigh this matter with a watchful will.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.18", "lines": ["That worthy went back to his palace hall,", "And thought upon the matter, large and small."]}, {"id": "C5.9.19", "lines": ["He brought his written charts before his eyes,", "His horoscope and omens from the skies."]}, {"id": "C5.9.20", "lines": ["Within his horoscope he read this sign:", "“At such a time, a man of Iran’s line,"]}, {"id": "C5.9.21", "lines": ["Shall do three mighty deeds by strength alone;", "And Rum’s great chiefs shall make his exploits known."]}, {"id": "C5.9.22", "lines": ["First, he shall take the Caesar’s child to wed,", "And be a crown upon that monarch’s head."]}, {"id": "C5.9.23", "lines": ["Within the realm two savage beasts will rise,", "And spread calamity beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "C5.9.24", "lines": ["Both by his hand will perish in their might;", "He will not fear their fury in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.25", "lines": ["He knew of Katayun, the royal maid,", "And of the bond with Goshtasb she had made."]}, {"id": "C5.9.26", "lines": ["He knew that Hishvi and the village-chief", "Both honored him and brought his heart relief."]}, {"id": "C5.9.27", "lines": ["He hurried to see Hishvi and relate", "All that had passed concerning his own fate."]}, {"id": "C5.9.28", "lines": ["He told the wonders sages had foretold,", "That would befall the land as time unrolled."]}, {"id": "C5.9.29", "lines": ["Hishvi replied, “Remain with us today,", "In friendship and good cheer, and do not stray."]}, {"id": "C5.9.30", "lines": ["The man of whom you speak has noble fame,", "A lord among the proud, of lofty name."]}, {"id": "C5.9.31", "lines": ["He gives his days entirely to the chase,", "And heeds no western throne or royal place."]}, {"id": "C5.9.32", "lines": ["He did not come to visit yesterday,", "Though he could chase my darkened mood away."]}, {"id": "C5.9.33", "lines": ["He will return from hunting soon; come here,", "And wait; his road will surely bring him near.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.34", "lines": ["He brought out wine, with scents and colors bright;", "They held their golden cups in glad delight."]}, {"id": "C5.9.35", "lines": ["When they had drained four cups of rosy wine,", "That valiant rider’s dust became a sign."]}, {"id": "C5.9.36", "lines": ["The two men saw the dust his charger made,", "And went to meet him in the open glade."]}, {"id": "C5.9.37", "lines": ["When Murin saw him, he declared outright,", "“No man on earth can match him in my sight."]}, {"id": "C5.9.38", "lines": ["His limbs, his neck, his bearing, strength, and grace", "Proclaim the royal lineage of his race.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.39", "lines": ["Hishvi replied, “Both brave and good is he;", "His heart finds joy in battle’s raging sea."]}, {"id": "C5.9.40", "lines": ["His prowess, modesty, high birth, and mind", "Surpass the beauty that your eyes can find.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.41", "lines": ["When he drew near, the two men left their steeds,", "To greet the warrior famed for noble deeds."]}, {"id": "C5.9.42", "lines": ["Hishvi prepared a waterside retreat,", "And quickly laid a table there to eat."]}, {"id": "C5.9.43", "lines": ["He brought out wine; new friends sat down to sup,", "A new-formed group of men who shared the cup."]}, {"id": "C5.9.44", "lines": ["When cheeks were flushed with wine of ruby red,", "To great Goshtasb noble Hishvi said:"]}, {"id": "C5.9.45", "lines": ["“You call me friend and trust in me alone;", "No other friend is here whom you have known."]}, {"id": "C5.9.46", "lines": ["Murin the warrior, honored for his name,", "Has come to seek my counsel in his claim."]}, {"id": "C5.9.47", "lines": ["A learned scribe of wisdom and of worth,", "He counts the courses of the stars from earth."]}, {"id": "C5.9.48", "lines": ["He speaks of Rum’s philosophers, and knows", "Where lands lie ruined, where a city grows."]}, {"id": "C5.9.49", "lines": ["He also springs from Salm’s imperial line;", "His ancestry bears every royal sign."]}, {"id": "C5.9.50", "lines": ["He has the sword that Salm was known to wield,", "A blade renowned on many a battlefield."]}, {"id": "C5.9.51", "lines": ["He breaks great warriors, rides against the foe,", "And brings the eagle downward with his bow."]}, {"id": "C5.9.52", "lines": ["He wishes now to gain distinguished place", "By joining Caesar’s house and royal race."]}, {"id": "C5.9.53", "lines": ["He spoke to Caesar, but when answer came,", "It troubled all his heart with grief and shame."]}, {"id": "C5.9.54", "lines": ["For Caesar said, ‘In Faskun’s forest lies", "A savage wolf that matches camels’ size."]}, {"id": "C5.9.55", "lines": ["If by your hand that monster shall be slain,", "My honored guest in Rum you shall remain."]}, {"id": "C5.9.56", "lines": ["You shall be lord and take my daughter’s hand;", "Then time shall grant the justice I demand.’"]}, {"id": "C5.9.57", "lines": ["Now if you help us, I will be your slave,", "And he will be your kinsman, true and brave.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.58", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “Agreed; the deed is right.", "Where is this forest? Guide me to its site."]}, {"id": "C5.9.59", "lines": ["What sort of beast can make men tremble so,", "And fill with dread the mighty and the low?”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.60", "lines": ["Hishvi replied, “The old wolf stands so high,", "A camel’s head would fall beneath its eye."]}, {"id": "C5.9.61", "lines": ["Two elephantine tusks, eyes jujube-red;", "An indigo-dark hide from tail to head."]}, {"id": "C5.9.62", "lines": ["Its horns like beams of ebony appear;", "Enraged, it leaves two horses in its rear."]}, {"id": "C5.9.63", "lines": ["Full many chiefs with heavy gorzes went", "To track the beast, on finding it intent."]}, {"id": "C5.9.64", "lines": ["They all returned defeated, bowed with shame,", "Their hearts consumed by grief when back they came.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.65", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “Bring Salm’s great sword to me,", "And bring a noble steed of high degree."]}, {"id": "C5.9.66", "lines": ["I call this beast a dragon, fierce and great;", "No wolf should bear a mighty camel’s weight.”"]}, {"id": "C5.9.67", "lines": ["When Murin heard, he left them and made haste", "Back to his house, with little time to waste."]}, {"id": "C5.9.68", "lines": ["He chose a sable horse, and armor bright,", "A Roman helm to wear into the fight."]}, {"id": "C5.9.69", "lines": ["He brought the diamond-bright sword Salm had borne,", "Blood-quenched and steeped in poison, battle-worn."]}, {"id": "C5.9.70", "lines": ["He chose rich gifts from all his treasure’s store,", "Five of each precious gem the coffers bore."]}, {"id": "C5.9.71", "lines": ["The sun tore through the pitch-black robe of night,", "And stepped beyond its curtain into light."]}, {"id": "C5.9.72", "lines": ["Then Murin left his palace, pressing on,", "And hurried to see Hishvi by the dawn."]}, {"id": "C5.9.73", "lines": ["Goshtasb came from hunting on that side;", "Hishvi looked up and saw the warrior ride."]}, {"id": "C5.9.74", "lines": ["They greeted him as he drew near that day,", "And marveled at the horse and sword’s display."]}, {"id": "C5.9.75", "lines": ["Goshtasb surveyed the gifts before his eyes,", "And chose the horse and sword from that rich prize."]}, {"id": "C5.9.76", "lines": ["He gave the other gifts to Hishvi then,", "And made his friend the happiest of men."]}, {"id": "C5.9.77", "lines": ["Goshtasb put on the armor for the fight,", "And mounted on the charger, armed in might."]}, {"id": "C5.9.78", "lines": ["His bow was strung, his kamand at his side,", "A noble horseman on a steed of pride."]}, {"id": "C5.9.79", "lines": ["Hishvi went with him on the forest road,", "And Murin, seeking help to lift his load."]}, {"id": "C5.9.80", "lines": ["They reached the edge of Faskun’s wooded ground,", "Their hearts in anguish, fear and sorrow bound."]}, {"id": "C5.10.1", "lines": ["When forest and the wolf’s dark haunt drew near,", "Murin drew back, his heart consumed by fear."]}, {"id": "C5.10.2", "lines": ["He showed Goshtasb the wood and pointed where", "The monster lurked within its hidden lair."]}, {"id": "C5.10.3", "lines": ["They turned away; their tears fell hot and fast,", "Their hearts consumed by grief as each step passed."]}, {"id": "C5.10.4", "lines": ["“We shall not see that noble man return,”", "Said Hishvi, “and my heart can only burn."]}, {"id": "C5.10.5", "lines": ["Woe for his stature, strength, his handsome face,", "His mighty arms, his gorz, his charger’s pace!”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.6", "lines": ["As brave Goshtasb approached the shadowed wood,", "He weighed the danger as a warrior should."]}, {"id": "C5.10.7", "lines": ["He stepped down from the saddle of his steed,", "And turned to God, Yazdan of all, to plead."]}, {"id": "C5.10.8", "lines": ["He said, “O holy Maker over all,", "Whose luster governs time’s great rise and fall,"]}, {"id": "C5.10.9", "lines": ["Assist me now and make this monster cease;", "Let old Lohrasp be sheltered still in peace."]}, {"id": "C5.10.10", "lines": ["If by this dragon I am overthrown,", "This beast that is a wolf to fools alone,"]}, {"id": "C5.10.11", "lines": ["My father, when he hears, will weep and grieve;", "No peaceful dawn will bring him a reprieve."]}, {"id": "C5.10.12", "lines": ["Distraught, like men whose reason has been torn,", "He will search everywhere, by sorrow worn."]}, {"id": "C5.10.13", "lines": ["But if this evil beast should make me flee,", "In shame I could not face those watching me.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.14", "lines": ["He mounted, raised his cry, and gripped in palm", "The scimitar of ancient, mighty Salm."]}, {"id": "C5.10.15", "lines": ["A strung bow on his arm, he rode ahead,", "Alert, his heart weighed down with grief and dread."]}, {"id": "C5.10.16", "lines": ["He moved with caution till he neared the lair,", "Then raised a cry that thundered through the air."]}, {"id": "C5.10.17", "lines": ["The wolf beheld him from the forest shade,", "Its roar rose to the clouds above the glade."]}, {"id": "C5.10.18", "lines": ["Like lion or fierce leopard in its wrath,", "It tore the ground with claws across his path."]}, {"id": "C5.10.19", "lines": ["Goshtasb beheld the monster and drew tight", "His bow, and showered arrows swift in flight."]}, {"id": "C5.10.20", "lines": ["His arrows fell upon the beast like rain,", "As spring clouds pour across the open plain."]}, {"id": "C5.10.21", "lines": ["Wounded by shafts that pierced its hide and mane,", "The beast grew fiercer from the burning pain."]}, {"id": "C5.10.22", "lines": ["It rose in fury, charged across the ground,", "A mighty camel in its bulk and bound."]}, {"id": "C5.10.23", "lines": ["Its horns thrust forward, like a stag’s, it came,", "Its heart all blood, its wounds a searing flame."]}, {"id": "C5.10.24", "lines": ["It reached the horse and drove a horn in deep,", "Into the black steed’s haunch with one fierce sweep."]}, {"id": "C5.10.25", "lines": ["It tore from groin to navel through the hide;", "Goshtasb drew the sword hung at his side."]}, {"id": "C5.10.26", "lines": ["On foot he struck the middle of its head;", "Split through the neck and trunk, the beast lay dead."]}, {"id": "C5.10.27", "lines": ["He turned to God, Yazdan of every beast,", "Of good and ill, of knowledge great and least."]}, {"id": "C5.10.28", "lines": ["He praised the Maker, bowing to Him low:", "“O You who make the days and seasons flow,"]}, {"id": "C5.10.29", "lines": ["You guide the lost; You judge each living thing,", "The one just God, the world’s exalted King."]}, {"id": "C5.10.30", "lines": ["All triumph and desire obey Your will;", "Your name gives grace and knowledge, wisdom, skill.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.31", "lines": ["He left that place of prayer and wrenched away", "The two long tusks, then left the woodland fray."]}, {"id": "C5.10.32", "lines": ["Alone he left the forest, pressed ahead,", "And followed where the winding pathway led."]}, {"id": "C5.10.33", "lines": ["There Hishvi sat with Murin, full of woe;", "They spoke of him where waters ebb and flow."]}, {"id": "C5.10.34", "lines": ["They spoke of prince and wolf in deep despair:", "“Alas for that great rider in its lair!"]}, {"id": "C5.10.35", "lines": ["He fights a mighty battle in its jaws;", "By now his flesh is torn beneath its claws.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.36", "lines": ["Then came Goshtasb on foot, all stained with blood,", "His face like fenugreek flowers in bud."]}, {"id": "C5.10.37", "lines": ["They saw him, then rose, and wept as they wept;", "Their lamentations surged again and swept."]}, {"id": "C5.10.38", "lines": ["They clasped him mournfully, their faces pale;", "Like springtime clouds, their tears fell without fail."]}, {"id": "C5.10.39", "lines": ["“How went your battle with the wolf?” they cried.", "“Our hearts have bled for you here by the tide.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.40", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “Good friends, is there no fear", "Of God in Rum, that such a beast lives here?"]}, {"id": "C5.10.41", "lines": ["Year after year, how could this dragon tread", "Your land at will, and fill your hearts with dread?"]}, {"id": "C5.10.42", "lines": ["It kills a world of people in its path;", "Your Caesar counts as dust before its wrath."]}, {"id": "C5.10.43", "lines": ["But I have cleft it with the sword of Salm;", "Its death has brought the roads enduring calm."]}, {"id": "C5.10.44", "lines": ["Go see that wonder now, its mighty hide;", "No man has seen a beast so broad and wide."]}, {"id": "C5.10.45", "lines": ["An aged elephant within its skin,", "It spans the very wood it settled in.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.46", "lines": ["Then both ran there, their hearts released from grief,", "And saw the monster dead beyond belief."]}, {"id": "C5.10.47", "lines": ["The wolf loomed like an elephant in view;", "Its claws were lions’, and its hide dark blue."]}, {"id": "C5.10.48", "lines": ["Cleft from the head to middle, there it lay:", "One hide made two fierce lions, split that way."]}, {"id": "C5.10.49", "lines": ["They blessed that glorious Sun upon the earth,", "And praised his strength, his valor, and his worth."]}, {"id": "C5.10.50", "lines": ["Glad-hearted from the forest then they came,", "And praised Goshtasb, the champion of fame."]}, {"id": "C5.10.51", "lines": ["Murin brought many gifts of costly kind,", "Such as his grateful judgment called to mind."]}, {"id": "C5.10.52", "lines": ["Goshtasb accepted nothing from that store", "Except another steed and asked no more."]}, {"id": "C5.10.53", "lines": ["He turned for home; when he approached the door,", "Katayun came to greet him as before."]}, {"id": "C5.10.54", "lines": ["She asked, “Who gave you this jowshan to wear?", "You rode out hunting in the morning air.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.55", "lines": ["The lion-hearted swordsman answered low:", "“O moon-faced lady, bright with beauty’s glow,"]}, {"id": "C5.10.56", "lines": ["A noble group of men of high renown", "Has come to Rum from my own distant town."]}, {"id": "C5.10.57", "lines": ["They gave me this jowshan, this sword and helm,", "With loving words from kin in my own realm.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.58", "lines": ["She brought him wine as fragrant as a rose;", "They drank, then sought the comfort of repose."]}, {"id": "C5.10.59", "lines": ["They lay down glad beneath their stars that night;", "He started from his sleep in sudden fright."]}, {"id": "C5.10.60", "lines": ["He dreamed again the battle he had fought;", "A mighty dragon filled his sleeping thought."]}, {"id": "C5.10.61", "lines": ["Then Katayun asked him, “What troubles you,", "That terror shakes your heart the long night through?”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.62", "lines": ["He answered, “In my dream I saw my throne,", "My star and fortune, all that is my own.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.63", "lines": ["She saw that he was royal in his birth,", "A king by heart and nature on the earth."]}, {"id": "C5.10.64", "lines": ["He hid his rank; yet she could see it plain,", "And knew he sought no place in Caesar’s train."]}, {"id": "C5.10.65", "lines": ["Goshtasb said, “Moon-faced lady, tall and fair,", "With jasmine cheeks and musk upon the air,"]}, {"id": "C5.10.66", "lines": ["Prepare with me to seek Iranian ground,", "Where brave men dwell, and a just Shah is crowned."]}, {"id": "C5.10.67", "lines": ["You will behold our fields and blessed land,", "And take the just and generous monarch’s hand.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.68", "lines": ["Katayun answered, “Speak no foolish word,", "Nor rashly act upon what you have stirred."]}, {"id": "C5.10.69", "lines": ["Before you leave, let Hishvi hear your plan;", "Go first and speak with that discerning man."]}, {"id": "C5.10.70", "lines": ["Perhaps his boat will bear you from this shore,", "And, once you cross, your youthful world restore."]}, {"id": "C5.10.71", "lines": ["I shall remain in anguish, longing then;", "Who knows when I shall sleep with you again?”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.72", "lines": ["Before he left, they wept where they had lain;", "Without a flame, they burned in grief and pain."]}, {"id": "C5.10.73", "lines": ["The wheeling sun shone brightly in the sky;", "The young pair woke with watchful hopes held high."]}, {"id": "C5.10.74", "lines": ["They rose up from the soft bed, side by side,", "And spoke of all the turning days might hide:"]}, {"id": "C5.10.75", "lines": ["“What face will heaven wear for us today?", "Will this world turn to kindness or dismay?”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.76", "lines": ["Meanwhile Murin went swiftly to the king,", "And brought the news that made the palace ring:"]}, {"id": "C5.10.77", "lines": ["“The losses that the wolf inflicted ceased;", "Its reign of terror died with that dread beast."]}, {"id": "C5.10.78", "lines": ["Its dragon body fills the forest glade;", "Come see the wonder that my sword has made."]}, {"id": "C5.10.79", "lines": ["It charged at me with fury in its stride;", "I met it with the khanjar at my side."]}, {"id": "C5.10.80", "lines": ["I split it from the head to middle through;", "That stroke would make a Div himself quake too.”"]}, {"id": "C5.10.81", "lines": ["The Caesar swelled with pride at what he heard;", "His faded face grew bright at Murin’s word."]}, {"id": "C5.10.82", "lines": ["He ordered oxen, carts, and tents conveyed", "Outside the city, where the feast was laid."]}, {"id": "C5.10.83", "lines": ["They made a place for feasting at his call,", "With wine and music, minstrels for them all."]}, {"id": "C5.10.84", "lines": ["They brought the ox-drawn carts along the track", "Into the wolf’s great wood to bring it back."]}, {"id": "C5.10.85", "lines": ["They saw a raging elephant in size,", "Cleft head to middle, stretched before their eyes."]}, {"id": "C5.10.86", "lines": ["They hauled it from the meadow where it lay,", "With straining oxen dragging it away."]}, {"id": "C5.10.87", "lines": ["A world of people came to see it lie;", "What wolf? A fierce male lion met the eye!"]}, {"id": "C5.10.88", "lines": ["The Caesar saw its elephantine size,", "And clapped his hands with joy before their eyes."]}, {"id": "C5.10.89", "lines": ["That day he called the bishop to his side,", "And gave his child to Murin as his bride."]}, {"id": "C5.10.90", "lines": ["They wrote to bishops, chiefs throughout the land,", "To patricians and lords who held command:"]}, {"id": "C5.10.91", "lines": ["“Murin, the lion, Rum’s exalted son,", "Has slain the wolf; the country’s peace is won.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.1", "lines": ["Among Rum’s warriors Ahran stood in fame,", "Younger than Murin, noble in his name."]}, {"id": "C5.11.2", "lines": ["His bearing proud, his frame prepared for fight,", "Illustrious in race and martial might."]}, {"id": "C5.11.3", "lines": ["He came to Caesar, where he stood and said,", "“May Rum thrive under you, its crowned head."]}, {"id": "C5.11.4", "lines": ["I pass Murin in treasure, sword, and power,", "In prowess, rank, and fortune’s rising hour."]}, {"id": "C5.11.5", "lines": ["Bestow your youngest daughter as my bride,", "And let your crown and troops revive in pride.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.6", "lines": ["But Caesar said, “You surely must have heard", "The oath I swore to God by solemn word."]}, {"id": "C5.11.7", "lines": ["This girl shall choose no husband of her own;", "I leave the customs of my fathers’ throne;"]}, {"id": "C5.11.8", "lines": ["Perform a deed like that Murin has done,", "And match the standing he through strength has won."]}, {"id": "C5.11.9", "lines": ["On Mount Sakila dwells a dragon dread,", "Whose poisoned fumes across the land are spread."]}, {"id": "C5.11.10", "lines": ["If you destroy that monster in its lair,", "My child, my wealth, and kingdom you shall share."]}, {"id": "C5.11.11", "lines": ["The wolf that slaughtered lions was its peer;", "Ahriman’s poisoned snare awaits you here.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.12", "lines": ["Ahran replied, “Your bidding I shall do;", "I pledge my life to win the prize from you.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.13", "lines": ["He left the Caesar, wounded by that word;", "His heart was torn by what he had just heard."]}, {"id": "C5.11.14", "lines": ["Then to his friends he said, “The wolf was slain", "By some brave hand that mastered fear and pain."]}, {"id": "C5.11.15", "lines": ["How could Murin have won so great a fame?", "The Caesar cannot judge a warrior’s claim."]}, {"id": "C5.11.16", "lines": ["I shall ask who it was that brought it low;", "Perhaps he can tell me what I must know.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.17", "lines": ["He went like dust toward Murin’s palace gate;", "A servant told his lord, enthroned and great."]}, {"id": "C5.11.18", "lines": ["Murin sat down within a chamber bright;", "No moon had seen such splendor in her flight."]}, {"id": "C5.11.19", "lines": ["The ambitious man wore warrior’s array,", "And on his head a Roman diadem lay."]}, {"id": "C5.11.20", "lines": ["The servant said, “Great Ahran waits outside;", "A noble group of men stands at his side.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.21", "lines": ["He had a finer seat prepared that day,", "And sent the needed servants on their way."]}, {"id": "C5.11.22", "lines": ["When Murin saw him, he bestowed his grace,", "Embraced him, and received him face to face."]}, {"id": "C5.11.23", "lines": ["When no one else remained within the hall,", "But those two chiefs, distinguished over all,"]}, {"id": "C5.11.24", "lines": ["Ahran said, “Murin, tell me what is true;", "Conceal no part of what I ask of you."]}, {"id": "C5.11.25", "lines": ["My heart is set on Caesar’s daughter’s hand,", "The youngest princess in the Roman land."]}, {"id": "C5.11.26", "lines": ["But Caesar answered, ‘Seek the dragon; then", "Go fight the dreadful beast within its den.’"]}, {"id": "C5.11.27", "lines": ["If you will tell me how you killed the beast,", "Your counsel may preserve my life at least.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.28", "lines": ["Murin was troubled and considered long:", "He pondered what to say, his doubts grown strong."]}, {"id": "C5.11.29", "lines": ["“If I tell Ahran how that deed was done,", "The truth will soon be known to everyone."]}, {"id": "C5.11.30", "lines": ["True manliness is upright speech and deed;", "From dark and crooked ways, our sorrows breed."]}, {"id": "C5.11.31", "lines": ["Perhaps that brave horseman of matchless might", "Will lay the dragon’s severed head in sight."]}, {"id": "C5.11.32", "lines": ["In every fight Ahran will be my friend;", "Our foes shall grasp at wind; their strength will end."]}, {"id": "C5.11.33", "lines": ["Let us clear sorrow’s dust from that man’s heart,", "And keep concealed the truth about his part.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.34", "lines": ["He said to Ahran, “First swear firm and true;", "Then I will tell the wolf’s whole tale to you."]}, {"id": "C5.11.35", "lines": ["Reveal it neither in the night nor day;", "Shut fast your lips and turn all speech away.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.36", "lines": ["Ahran accepted what Murin proposed,", "And swore the oath by which his tongue was closed."]}, {"id": "C5.11.37", "lines": ["Murin then set his pen to paper white,", "And wrote to Hishvi of the coming fight."]}, {"id": "C5.11.38", "lines": ["He wrote, “Ahran, of Caesar’s kin and line,", "A noble prince with wealth and royal sign,"]}, {"id": "C5.11.39", "lines": ["A just man, asks the Caesar’s daughter now,", "The youngest left beneath the royal vow."]}, {"id": "C5.11.40", "lines": ["Caesar has made the dragon his dark snare,", "To trap Ahran, beheaded in its lair."]}, {"id": "C5.11.41", "lines": ["Ahran has come to ask what might be done;", "I told him how my former prize was won."]}, {"id": "C5.11.42", "lines": ["I told him of the wolf the horseman slew,", "Whose valiant deed advanced my fortune too."]}, {"id": "C5.11.43", "lines": ["As he secured my fortune and success,", "He will bring aid to Ahran in distress."]}, {"id": "C5.11.44", "lines": ["He will make us both lords of high renown,", "And set the sun above each lordly crown.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.45", "lines": ["Ahran departed with the secret scroll,", "And sought out Hishvi with his eager soul."]}, {"id": "C5.11.46", "lines": ["When near the sea he came, Hishvi descried", "The noble Ahran coming to his side."]}, {"id": "C5.11.47", "lines": ["He took the pleasing letter in his hand,", "Unsealed it, blessing him upon the strand."]}, {"id": "C5.11.48", "lines": ["He said, “O noble man, it is unjust", "That one so free should bear a cloud of dust."]}, {"id": "C5.11.49", "lines": ["A youth, an alien, yet a man of name,", "Risked life itself to win Murin his fame."]}, {"id": "C5.11.50", "lines": ["How will he fight this dragon and prevail?", "Unless his striving saves him, he may fail."]}, {"id": "C5.11.51", "lines": ["My part is speech; the deed is his to do,", "And kindly words are good the whole world through."]}, {"id": "C5.11.52", "lines": ["Be our guest here tonight beside the sea;", "Set candles by the waves and stay with me."]}, {"id": "C5.11.53", "lines": ["When that renowned young hero comes this way", "Tomorrow, I will tell him what you say.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.54", "lines": ["They lit the sea’s broad surface with their light,", "And called for wine and food throughout the night,"]}, {"id": "C5.11.55", "lines": ["Till dawn’s bright yellow ruby rose on high", "Above the lapis field that arched the sky."]}, {"id": "C5.11.56", "lines": ["A rider’s dust rose from the plain nearby;", "Beside the sea, it caught great Ahran’s eye."]}, {"id": "C5.11.57", "lines": ["Then Hishvi said, “The famous man draws near;", "Behold that gallant horseman riding here.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.58", "lines": ["As he drew near, both men ran out apace,", "On foot to greet the horseman face to face."]}, {"id": "C5.11.59", "lines": ["The warrior left his horse and made request", "For food and wine, as Hishvi’s honored guest."]}, {"id": "C5.11.60", "lines": ["Hishvi made haste to say, “May joy attend", "Your nights and days, illustrious lord and friend."]}, {"id": "C5.11.61", "lines": ["Behold this warrior of Caesar’s race,", "A noble youth of fortune, rank, and grace."]}, {"id": "C5.11.62", "lines": ["Not only is he of high Roman birth;", "He has wealth, name, and standing of great worth."]}, {"id": "C5.11.63", "lines": ["He seeks to wed the daughter of the king,", "And asks what counsel we can wisely bring."]}, {"id": "C5.11.64", "lines": ["No man but Caesar is his peer in grace;", "His youth and stature fit his noble race."]}, {"id": "C5.11.65", "lines": ["He asked for Caesar’s daughter as his bride,", "But Caesar set his marriage suit aside:"]}, {"id": "C5.11.66", "lines": ["‘Strike down the dragon if you seek my line;", "Display your prowess and make glory shine.’"]}, {"id": "C5.11.67", "lines": ["Before his nobles Caesar names alone", "Murin and lauds the prowess he has shown."]}, {"id": "C5.11.68", "lines": ["He seeks a man whose fortune fits command,", "To leave the crown and kingdom in his hand."]}, {"id": "C5.11.69", "lines": ["A mountain stands nearby, where men would meet", "For feasts and pleasures in that fair retreat."]}, {"id": "C5.11.70", "lines": ["A dragon makes its lair upon the peak;", "Its evil leaves all Rum worn down and weak."]}, {"id": "C5.11.71", "lines": ["It drags the vulture downward from the sky,", "And lifts the nahang from the depths nearby."]}, {"id": "C5.11.72", "lines": ["Its poisoned fumes consume the land with woe;", "No one has seen a land afflicted so."]}, {"id": "C5.11.73", "lines": ["If by your hand that dragon should be slain,", "The world will marvel at the fame you gain."]}, {"id": "C5.11.74", "lines": ["If God Most Pure should aid you in the fight,", "The sun will turn to serve you with its light."]}, {"id": "C5.11.75", "lines": ["With such great strength and stature, such command,", "We know no warrior who can match your hand.”"]}, {"id": "C5.11.76", "lines": ["He said, “Make me a blade five arm-lengths long,", "Including hilt; its iron must be strong."]}, {"id": "C5.11.77", "lines": ["Set serpent’s teeth along each edge to bite,", "And fix a thorn-like spearpoint firm and tight."]}, {"id": "C5.11.78", "lines": ["Quench it in blood and poison, hard and keen,", "Like diamond sharp, its iron blue in sheen."]}, {"id": "C5.11.79", "lines": ["Bring horse and gorz, and barding for the steed;", "Bring Indian armor, too, to meet my need."]}, {"id": "C5.11.80", "lines": ["By God’s command, I shall hang it from a tree,", "Head downward, with His favor granted me.”"]}, {"id": "C5.12.1", "lines": ["Ahran departed, hurrying to heed", "Whatever brave Goshtasb might truly need."]}, {"id": "C5.12.2", "lines": ["When all was ready, then the hero rode,", "And with his comrades took the mountain road."]}, {"id": "C5.12.3", "lines": ["When Hishvi saw Sakila’s height appear,", "He pointed toward its peak, his heart in fear."]}, {"id": "C5.12.4", "lines": ["When sunlight thrust its spear across the sky,", "He and Ahran turned back and waited by."]}, {"id": "C5.12.5", "lines": ["Goshtasb remained before the mountain lair,", "Where that fierce dragon poisoned all the air."]}, {"id": "C5.12.6", "lines": ["The dragon saw him, drew a sucking breath,", "And pulled him toward its jaws, the gates of death."]}, {"id": "C5.12.7", "lines": ["He slung his helmet from the saddle-bow,", "And shot a hail of arrows at his foe."]}, {"id": "C5.12.8", "lines": ["The dragon closed upon him in the fray;", "The youthful warrior strove to break away."]}, {"id": "C5.12.9", "lines": ["He thrust the toothed blade in its mouth and prayed", "To God, the Giver of all good, for aid."]}, {"id": "C5.12.10", "lines": ["The dragon bit the blade; its teeth pressed tight,", "And drove each edge into its mouth outright."]}, {"id": "C5.12.11", "lines": ["Blood mixed with poison washed the mountainside;", "Its strength ebbed with the venom’s draining tide."]}, {"id": "C5.12.12", "lines": ["The Lion drew his sword and struck its head;", "Beneath that stroke the mighty dragon bled."]}, {"id": "C5.12.13", "lines": ["Its brains spilled on the stones; the deed was done.", "He then dismounted, fortune’s favored son."]}, {"id": "C5.12.14", "lines": ["He pried two teeth from where the beast lay slain,", "Then washed his head and body free of stain."]}, {"id": "C5.12.15", "lines": ["He rolled upon the dust with cries that rose", "To God, who grants the strength to conquer foes."]}, {"id": "C5.12.16", "lines": ["For God had granted him the strength to slay", "The wolf and mighty dragon in his way."]}, {"id": "C5.12.17", "lines": ["He said, “Lohrasp and glorious Zarir", "Are sick of me; my life they hold not dear."]}, {"id": "C5.12.18", "lines": ["Yet I, through craft and courage, force and breath,", "Have cast this dragon down to dust and death."]}, {"id": "C5.12.19", "lines": ["The world gives hardship, grief that will not cease,", "And poison where a cure should bring release."]}, {"id": "C5.12.20", "lines": ["If God will grant me life, I still may stand", "Before my father, ruler of our land,"]}, {"id": "C5.12.21", "lines": ["And tell him how my fortune turned aside:", "I sought the throne; my hopes of kingship died.”"]}, {"id": "C5.12.22", "lines": ["His cheeks were wet with tears as he regained", "His saddle; in his hand the blade remained."]}, {"id": "C5.12.23", "lines": ["He came where Hishvi and Ahran had stayed,", "And told them of the marvels of his blade."]}, {"id": "C5.12.24", "lines": ["He said to Ahran, “See this blade I bore:", "It felled the dragon; its might is no more."]}, {"id": "C5.12.25", "lines": ["You feared the dragon’s breath and savage power;", "The wolf’s grim deeds made all your courage cower."]}, {"id": "C5.12.26", "lines": ["For me, to fight brave captains, each one proud,", "Each bearing up a heavy gorz, unbowed,"]}, {"id": "C5.12.27", "lines": ["Is harder than to fight a beast that springs", "From ocean depths and all its fury brings."]}, {"id": "C5.12.28", "lines": ["I have seen many dragons fierce as this,", "And never turned my back before their hiss.”"]}, {"id": "C5.12.29", "lines": ["They heard him, young in speech yet old in lore,", "And marveled at the learning that he bore."]}, {"id": "C5.12.30", "lines": ["When both those proud men heard his words of might,", "They bowed before him, honoring him outright."]}, {"id": "C5.12.31", "lines": ["They said, “No woman ever bore a man", "So brave as you beneath the heaven’s span.”"]}, {"id": "C5.12.32", "lines": ["Ahran brought gifts in heaps, with noble steeds", "Caparisoned to match heroic needs."]}, {"id": "C5.12.33", "lines": ["One dun he took, a sword, a bow to bend,", "Three shafts, a kamand; there his choice would end."]}, {"id": "C5.12.34", "lines": ["To Hishvi went the gold, the garments new;", "He gave him all the other presents, too."]}, {"id": "C5.12.35", "lines": ["Goshtasb said, “No one must know this affair;", "No hint of what has happened must you share."]}, {"id": "C5.12.36", "lines": ["Nor tell that I have seen the dragon here,", "Or heard the wolf whose cry you held in fear.”"]}, {"id": "C5.12.37", "lines": ["Then glad at heart, he left that place behind,", "And sought Katayun with a joyful mind."]}, {"id": "C5.12.38", "lines": ["Ahran brought oxen, carts to haul the load,", "And charged his men to bear it down the road."]}, {"id": "C5.12.39", "lines": ["He said, “Convey it to the Caesar’s court,", "Before the legions, chiefs of high report.”"]}, {"id": "C5.12.40", "lines": ["Before the oxen and the carts he sped,", "Toward Caesar’s court, with eager steps ahead."]}, {"id": "C5.12.41", "lines": ["When news of this was heard through all of Rum,", "The veterans rushed from every hall and room."]}, {"id": "C5.12.42", "lines": ["They saw the mighty dragon, slain and still,", "Brought down by that strong warrior’s strength and skill."]}, {"id": "C5.12.43", "lines": ["As oxen brought it downward to the plain,", "The crowd cried out at such a monster slain."]}, {"id": "C5.12.44", "lines": ["The dragon and the wound it bore drew cries;", "It strained both ox and wagon with its size."]}, {"id": "C5.12.45", "lines": ["The wagon wheels rang out with creak and groan;", "The oxen seemed too weak to haul alone."]}, {"id": "C5.12.46", "lines": ["All those who saw that sword-blow, deep and wide,", "And heard the ox and wagon, loudly cried:"]}, {"id": "C5.12.47", "lines": ["“Did Ahran strike that beast so fierce a blow,", "Or did the sword of Ahriman strike so?”"]}, {"id": "C5.12.48", "lines": ["Then Caesar left his palace, with a call", "To worthy chiefs and sages, one and all."]}, {"id": "C5.12.49", "lines": ["Around the dragon, from the dawn till dark,", "They held high revel, stirred by wonder’s spark."]}, {"id": "C5.12.50", "lines": ["Next day, when sunlight crowned the turning sky,", "And turned the teakwood gold beneath its eye,"]}, {"id": "C5.12.51", "lines": ["He called the bishop in and warmly greeted;", "Then on a golden throne the priest was seated."]}, {"id": "C5.12.52", "lines": ["The city’s patriarchs and nobles came,", "All men of worth and honorable name."]}, {"id": "C5.12.53", "lines": ["Before the prelate, elders stood in rows,", "With Caesar and the counselors he chose."]}, {"id": "C5.12.54", "lines": ["To Ahran then the Caesar’s daughter went;", "Her loving mother gave her full consent."]}, {"id": "C5.12.55", "lines": ["The people left; the Caesar’s spirit stirred,", "His heart renewed by all that had occurred."]}, {"id": "C5.12.56", "lines": ["He said, “This is my day, my heart’s delight;", "The lofty heavens cheer me with their light."]}, {"id": "C5.12.57", "lines": ["No world will see, in all its length of years,", "Two sons-in-law like mine, who have no peers.”"]}, {"id": "C5.12.58", "lines": ["They wrote to every lord who held a throne,", "Or wore a crown, to make the tidings known:"]}, {"id": "C5.12.59", "lines": ["“Two mighty men have slain the dragon dread", "And proud, fierce wolf; both monstrous beasts are dead.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.1", "lines": ["Before the Caesar’s palace rose a tower,", "A lofty viewing place of royal power."]}, {"id": "C5.13.2", "lines": ["Upon the riding-ground both sons-in-law", "Delighted Caesar with the games he saw."]}, {"id": "C5.13.3", "lines": ["With polo, javelins, and archers’ skill,", "They wheeled their horses freely at their will."]}, {"id": "C5.13.4", "lines": ["They rode like foremost horsemen of the field,", "And every mounted sport their skill revealed."]}, {"id": "C5.13.5", "lines": ["At length came Katayun, with queenly grace,", "And found Goshtasb with sorrow on his face."]}, {"id": "C5.13.6", "lines": ["She said, “Why sit so darkly, sunk in grief?", "Why does your heart refuse all calm relief?"]}, {"id": "C5.13.7", "lines": ["Two chieftains now in Rum enjoy renown,", "With stores of treasure, diadem, and crown."]}, {"id": "C5.13.8", "lines": ["One slew the dragon, fearless in the fight,", "And never turned his back before its might."]}, {"id": "C5.13.9", "lines": ["The other tore the savage wolf apart;", "His fame rings through Rum’s people, street, and mart."]}, {"id": "C5.13.10", "lines": ["Now on the Caesar’s field they strive and vie;", "Their horses lift the dust into the sky."]}, {"id": "C5.13.11", "lines": ["There Caesar will be present; if you go,", "Perhaps the sight will ease your inward woe.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.12", "lines": ["Goshtasb said, “Your father, honored bride,", "Stands high wherever noble chiefs preside."]}, {"id": "C5.13.13", "lines": ["He cast his son-in-law beyond the wall;", "How should he greet me kindly there at all?"]}, {"id": "C5.13.14", "lines": ["Yet if this is the course you bid me take,", "I shall accept your counsel for your sake.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.15", "lines": ["He bade them saddle one earth-shaking steed,", "And rode where Caesar watched the riders’ speed."]}, {"id": "C5.13.16", "lines": ["He watched the polo on the Caesar’s ground,", "Then asked for stick and ball from those around."]}, {"id": "C5.13.17", "lines": ["He cast the ball among the mounted band,", "And gripped the polo stick within his hand."]}, {"id": "C5.13.18", "lines": ["He spurred his horse; the others lost their pace,", "Their hands and feet grew helpless in the race."]}, {"id": "C5.13.19", "lines": ["The warriors paused; no man could see it fly,", "So high he drove the ball into the sky."]}, {"id": "C5.13.20", "lines": ["Where could the riders find the ball he played?", "They ceased their strokes; no further charge was made."]}, {"id": "C5.13.21", "lines": ["The Roman faces paled; on every side", "Rose noise and clamor in a troubled tide."]}, {"id": "C5.13.22", "lines": ["Then they prepared to test the archers’ art;", "The mounted bowmen gathered to take part."]}, {"id": "C5.13.23", "lines": ["Goshtasb rose and spoke for all to hear:", "“No longer must my skills lie hidden here.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.24", "lines": ["He cast the polo stick aside; the strain", "Made bow and string clutch at their heads in pain."]}, {"id": "C5.13.25", "lines": ["The Caesar watched his grip, his shoulders’ span,", "His long-set stirrups, marveling at the man."]}, {"id": "C5.13.26", "lines": ["He asked, “From where has this great rider come,", "Who wheels to right and left and strikes men dumb?"]}, {"id": "C5.13.27", "lines": ["I have seen many warriors in my days,", "But none whose form and skill deserve such praise."]}, {"id": "C5.13.28", "lines": ["Call him to me, that I may know his name;", "Is he an angel, or of human frame?”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.29", "lines": ["They called Goshtasb, who came before the throne;", "His ill-wisher was shaken to the bone."]}, {"id": "C5.13.30", "lines": ["He said, “Brave rider, crown of warlike men,", "Head of the proud, speak plainly to me then.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.31", "lines": ["He asked his name, his homeland, and his race;", "Goshtasb let silence fill the waiting space."]}, {"id": "C5.13.32", "lines": ["He answered, “I am poor, and nothing more:", "A stranger Caesar drove from the city door."]}, {"id": "C5.13.33", "lines": ["He drove his son-in-law beyond the gate;", "No record named me in his rolls of state."]}, {"id": "C5.13.34", "lines": ["He treated Katayun with bitter shame", "Because she chose a stranger with no name."]}, {"id": "C5.13.35", "lines": ["Yet she obeyed the custom of your house,", "And bore disgrace for taking me as spouse."]}, {"id": "C5.13.36", "lines": ["Within the forest fell that wolf of prey;", "The mountain dragon died the selfsame way."]}, {"id": "C5.13.37", "lines": ["Both lost their heads beneath my sword’s decree;", "And Hishvi was the one who guided me."]}, {"id": "C5.13.38", "lines": ["Their teeth remain within my house today;", "The wounds upon them prove the words I say."]}, {"id": "C5.13.39", "lines": ["Ask Hishvi; he can tell you what befell;", "These deeds are fresh, and he remembers well.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.40", "lines": ["When Hishvi came and laid the teeth in sight,", "He told the Caesar how Goshtasb won the fight."]}, {"id": "C5.13.41", "lines": ["Then Caesar spoke in penitence and shame:", "“Young man, you suffered wrong; I bear the blame."]}, {"id": "C5.13.42", "lines": ["Where is my dear Katayun? Tell me now.", "She has just cause to blame me, I avow.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.43", "lines": ["At Murin and Ahran he glared in rage:", "“No hidden lie survives from age to age.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.44", "lines": ["Then on his wind-foot steed he raced to plead,", "And asked forgiveness for his former deed."]}, {"id": "C5.13.45", "lines": ["He praised his daughter, wise and pure of heart,", "Whose chastity and judgment stood apart."]}, {"id": "C5.13.46", "lines": ["He said, “O moon-faced child, your choice was right;", "You chose a husband worthy of your light."]}, {"id": "C5.13.47", "lines": ["You raised our whole house high through what you chose;", "From this good fortune all our honor grows.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.48", "lines": ["When Katayun beheld her father stand,", "She came before him, hand laid over hand."]}, {"id": "C5.13.49", "lines": ["She blessed him, bowed before him, then in prayer", "Spoke with the Maker, laying her heart bare."]}, {"id": "C5.13.50", "lines": ["He said, “Ask him; perhaps he will confide", "The secret of his birth to you, his bride.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.51", "lines": ["She said, “However much I ask, I find", "He keeps the truth concealed within his mind."]}, {"id": "C5.13.52", "lines": ["He never speaks to me about his race;", "He hides his name from all in every place."]}, {"id": "C5.13.53", "lines": ["His land and lineage still remain concealed;", "‘Farrokhzad’ is the name he has revealed."]}, {"id": "C5.13.54", "lines": ["I think his birth is noble, for his might", "Is great, and he delights in every fight.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.55", "lines": ["Back to his palace Caesar made his way;", "The turning heavens brought day after day."]}, {"id": "C5.13.56", "lines": ["One morning wise Goshtasb rose and went", "To Caesar’s court, on meeting him intent."]}, {"id": "C5.13.57", "lines": ["Then Caesar set him on a throne of gold;", "In silence, he beheld the rider bold."]}, {"id": "C5.13.58", "lines": ["He called for belt and ring from treasure stored,", "A Caesar’s crown to grace that noble lord."]}, {"id": "C5.13.59", "lines": ["He kissed the crown and set it on his head,", "Recalling all that he had done and said."]}, {"id": "C5.13.60", "lines": ["He spoke to all who gathered there to hear:", "“Attend to every word that meets your ear."]}, {"id": "C5.13.61", "lines": ["Obey Farrokhzad, all of you; take heed", "To follow him in every word and deed.”"]}, {"id": "C5.13.62", "lines": ["The news spread out to every land and throne;", "To every king and lord his rank was known."]}, {"id": "C5.14.1", "lines": ["Khazar lay nearest Caesar’s realm; for long", "Its people darkened Rum with grievous wrong."]}, {"id": "C5.14.2", "lines": ["Ilyas, Mehras’ warrior son, held sway,", "And Caesar wrote to him in this fierce way;"]}, {"id": "C5.14.3", "lines": ["His pen seemed dipped in blood before he wrote:", "“O ruler of Khazar, heed this royal note."]}, {"id": "C5.14.4", "lines": ["You ruled Khazar and mocked us through the years;", "But now your day of gladness disappears."]}, {"id": "C5.14.5", "lines": ["Send tribute, treasure, payment of your dues,", "And chiefs as hostages whom you shall choose."]}, {"id": "C5.14.6", "lines": ["Else Farrokhzad, an elephant in rage,", "Will raze your land when you and he engage.”"]}, {"id": "C5.14.7", "lines": ["Ilyas read the letter; bitter gall", "Seemed mixed with ink as he replied to all:"]}, {"id": "C5.14.8", "lines": ["“Such prowess never graced the Roman name;", "No Roman ever held so great a claim."]}, {"id": "C5.14.9", "lines": ["Be glad I do not make your country pay", "Its tribute to my throne from day to day."]}, {"id": "C5.14.10", "lines": ["Why should one horseman give you heart to dare,", "Who sought your shelter and received your care?"]}, {"id": "C5.14.11", "lines": ["Were he an iron mountain, he would be", "One man, a snare of Ahriman, to me."]}, {"id": "C5.14.12", "lines": ["Do not send him to bear this battle’s weight;", "I shall not linger over this debate.”"]}, {"id": "C5.14.13", "lines": ["When Murin and Ahran heard his reply,", "They heard Ilyas’s challenge, proud and high."]}, {"id": "C5.14.14", "lines": ["Murin sent Caesar word: “No dragon’s might", "Confronts us now, to fall through trap or sleight."]}, {"id": "C5.14.15", "lines": ["He is no wolf to die through cunning skill,", "Nor writhe from poison used to work your will."]}, {"id": "C5.14.16", "lines": ["Ilyas, raging where the tabiras beat,", "Will make the prince weep blood in his defeat."]}, {"id": "C5.14.17", "lines": ["See how that boastful rider, when they meet,", "Will bow before Ilyas and retreat.”"]}, {"id": "C5.14.18", "lines": ["When Caesar heard them, sorrow filled his heart;", "Their words had made his happiness depart."]}, {"id": "C5.14.19", "lines": ["He said, “In Rum, Farrokhzad, you are known,", "A gem that crowns our realm and royal throne."]}, {"id": "C5.14.20", "lines": ["Ilyas slays the lions in his wrath;", "A bronze-clad elephant, he clears his path."]}, {"id": "C5.14.21", "lines": ["If you can face him, say so to my face;", "If not, beware of bringing us disgrace."]}, {"id": "C5.14.22", "lines": ["If you cannot withstand him in the field,", "I will approach him, urge his wrath to yield."]}, {"id": "C5.14.23", "lines": ["With kindly words and gifts, I shall prevail,", "And turn his anger from us without fail.”"]}, {"id": "C5.14.24", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “Why question me this way?", "What need for all these words that you must say?"]}, {"id": "C5.14.25", "lines": ["When I spur on my steed across the land,", "I fear no force Khazar has at command."]}, {"id": "C5.14.26", "lines": ["Yet trust not Murin and Ahran in fight;", "Do not call either to defend your right."]}, {"id": "C5.14.27", "lines": ["Their hatred will reveal itself that day", "In crooked deeds and Ahriman’s own way."]}, {"id": "C5.14.28", "lines": ["When armies from Khazar advance on me,", "You and one son my guardians must be."]}, {"id": "C5.14.29", "lines": ["Then, strengthened by the God who conquers all,", "I shall lead forth and make their standard fall."]}, {"id": "C5.14.30", "lines": ["I shall destroy Ilyas, throne, and crown,", "His army and his majesty cast down."]}, {"id": "C5.14.31", "lines": ["I shall seize his girdle, tear him from his seat,", "Raise him aloft, and dash him at my feet.”"]}, {"id": "C5.14.32", "lines": ["Next day the sun rose, mirrored in the stream;", "A golden shield appeared within its gleam."]}, {"id": "C5.14.33", "lines": ["The brazen karnays sounded from Khazar,", "And dust arose toward heaven from afar."]}, {"id": "C5.14.34", "lines": ["Then Caesar said, “Farrokhzad, lead our force;", "Bring forth the troops and set them on their course.”"]}, {"id": "C5.14.35", "lines": ["Goshtasb led forth the Roman ranks and wound", "Beyond the city to the open ground."]}, {"id": "C5.14.36", "lines": ["With ox-head gorz he rode beside the stream,", "Tall as a cypress where the waters gleam."]}, {"id": "C5.14.37", "lines": ["He chose the open plain where ranks would meet,", "And sent dust heavenward beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "C5.14.38", "lines": ["Then Ilyas saw his shoulders and his grace,", "His turning wrist, his gorz’s sweep and pace."]}, {"id": "C5.14.39", "lines": ["He sent a horseman, smooth in speech and sly,", "To bait Goshtasb with praise and subtle lie."]}, {"id": "C5.14.40", "lines": ["The horseman said, “O rider, famed and wise,", "Do not let Caesar’s favor cloud your eyes."]}, {"id": "C5.14.41", "lines": ["You are the horseman on whom all depend;", "His spring and fame through you alone ascend."]}, {"id": "C5.14.42", "lines": ["Stand clear of both these armies; turn aside.", "Why should your lips with angry foam be dyed?"]}, {"id": "C5.14.43", "lines": ["Ilyas is a lion in the fray;", "More swift than dust, he comes to bar your way."]}, {"id": "C5.14.44", "lines": ["If you seek gifts, Ilyas has his store;", "Why toil for wealth when he can give you more?"]}, {"id": "C5.14.45", "lines": ["Choose any portion of the world you name;", "Within that region you shall rise to fame."]}, {"id": "C5.14.46", "lines": ["I shall be both your servant and your friend,", "And never break my pledge until the end.”"]}, {"id": "C5.14.47", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “These words have come too late;", "Your talk has passed the bounds of all debate."]}, {"id": "C5.14.48", "lines": ["You first began this quarrel with your claim;", "Now you withdraw the words that sparked its flame."]}, {"id": "C5.14.49", "lines": ["Words serve no purpose now that battle nears;", "The time has come for strife and clashing spears.”"]}, {"id": "C5.14.50", "lines": ["The envoy hurried back as swift as air;", "To Ilyas he laid the answer bare."]}, {"id": "C5.14.51", "lines": ["The sun turned yellow on the mountain height;", "No time remained that evening for a fight."]}, {"id": "C5.14.52", "lines": ["Night spread an ebony curtain overhead,", "Across the amber face its darkness spread."]}, {"id": "C5.15.1", "lines": ["The sun, aware of all that lay in wait,", "Rose from the Archer to its royal state."]}, {"id": "C5.15.2", "lines": ["The light of day with amber splendor shone;", "From all sides rang tabiras, karnays’ tone."]}, {"id": "C5.15.3", "lines": ["The clash of battle rose from either side;", "The field became a blood-red river wide."]}, {"id": "C5.15.4", "lines": ["Then Caesar came in haste upon the right,", "And sent both sons-in-law ahead to fight."]}, {"id": "C5.15.5", "lines": ["His son Sakil held the left; the center wing", "Held tabiras, elephants, near the king."]}, {"id": "C5.15.6", "lines": ["The battle’s clamor rose from either side;", "The sun and moon seemed ready to collide."]}, {"id": "C5.15.7", "lines": ["Goshtasb rode out before the foremost band,", "A steed beneath, a dragon in his hand."]}, {"id": "C5.15.8", "lines": ["Ilyas told his men, “Now I can see", "Why Caesar dares demand his tax from me."]}, {"id": "C5.15.9", "lines": ["He keeps a dragon such as this in sight,", "And trusts his arm to crush us in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "C5.15.10", "lines": ["When brave Goshtasb beheld Ilyas draw near,", "He said, “The hour to prove my strength is here.”"]}, {"id": "C5.15.11", "lines": ["Both riders spurred their horses to assail,", "With lance and shafts to pierce through jowshan’s scale."]}, {"id": "C5.15.12", "lines": ["Ilyas loosed an arrow from his stand;", "Its point struck home and gashed Goshtasb’s hand."]}, {"id": "C5.15.13", "lines": ["Goshtasb drove at the jowshan, lance held low,", "And through its iron scales he pierced the foe."]}, {"id": "C5.15.14", "lines": ["He hurled him from his horse, too dazed to fight,", "Then reached and seized his hand and gripped it tight."]}, {"id": "C5.15.15", "lines": ["He dragged him through the ranks before their eyes,", "And gave him up to Caesar as his prize."]}, {"id": "C5.15.16", "lines": ["Then brave Goshtasb led all the troops ahead,", "And like the wind into the battle sped."]}, {"id": "C5.15.17", "lines": ["He slew great multitudes, took captives too;", "The world stood stunned at what his might could do."]}, {"id": "C5.15.18", "lines": ["The Romans raised their voices in his track;", "Goshtasb looked behind, then headed back."]}, {"id": "C5.15.19", "lines": ["The troops rode back to Caesar through the plain,", "Heads high in triumph after that campaign."]}, {"id": "C5.15.20", "lines": ["He came exalted into Caesar’s sight;", "The king went forth to greet him with delight."]}, {"id": "C5.15.21", "lines": ["He kissed the hero’s head and eyes and face,", "And thanked the Maker in that joyful place."]}, {"id": "C5.15.22", "lines": ["They all returned in joy; the warrior’s brow", "Received the royal crown that graced him now."]}, {"id": "C5.15.23", "lines": ["All Rum came forth with gifts to greet his fame,", "And scattered treasure as they praised his name."]}, {"id": "C5.15.24", "lines": ["They decked the world and called for wine and song;", "The minstrels came to entertain the throng."]}, {"id": "C5.15.25", "lines": ["Such is the custom of the turning sphere:", "Now sweetness comes, now poison follows near."]}, {"id": "C5.16.1", "lines": ["Heaven turned awhile and kept its purpose veiled,", "No sign foretold what heaven’s course entailed."]}, {"id": "C5.16.2", "lines": ["The Caesar told Goshtasb, “While still you live,", "Seek out the share that this world has to give."]}, {"id": "C5.16.3", "lines": ["This matter asks for counsel, thought, and care;", "A noble envoy I will now prepare."]}, {"id": "C5.16.4", "lines": ["Experienced and wise, he shall depart,", "And speak to Shah Lohrasp with measured heart:"]}, {"id": "C5.16.5", "lines": ["‘Half of the world lies peaceful in your reign;", "The treasures of the great are your domain."]}, {"id": "C5.16.6", "lines": ["If you will pay me tribute for your land,", "Your wealth and honor rest at your command."]}, {"id": "C5.16.7", "lines": ["If not, my Roman legions shall surround", "Your realm; their horses’ hooves shall hide the ground.’”"]}, {"id": "C5.16.8", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “The judgment rests with you;", "The world beneath your feet lies bound and true.”"]}, {"id": "C5.16.9", "lines": ["There was a nobleman, Kalus by name,", "Wise, learned, and powerful, of honored fame."]}, {"id": "C5.16.10", "lines": ["The Caesar called that sage and said, “Depart;", "Give Shah Lohrasp the message from my heart:"]}, {"id": "C5.16.11", "lines": ["‘If you will pay me tribute and obey,", "Submit yourself, and follow what I say,"]}, {"id": "C5.16.12", "lines": ["You may retain Iran’s great crown and throne,", "And rule the realm and lands that are your own."]}, {"id": "C5.16.13", "lines": ["If not, behold my legions on the plain,", "With warriors from the spearmen’s own domain."]}, {"id": "C5.16.14", "lines": ["Their battle-shout shall thunder loud and long;", "Victorious Farrokhzad shall lead the throng."]}, {"id": "C5.16.15", "lines": ["I shall make your country ruined and bare,", "A lair that lions and leopards shall share.’”"]}, {"id": "C5.16.16", "lines": ["With wisdom in his head, he rode ahead,", "His heart held justice; like the wind he sped."]}, {"id": "C5.16.17", "lines": ["When he drew near the mighty Shah’s domain,", "He saw the royal gateway from the plain."]}, {"id": "C5.16.18", "lines": ["The chamberlain, informed the envoy came,", "Approached the monarch with his rank and name:"]}, {"id": "C5.16.19", "lines": ["“An ancient statesman waits before the gate,", "An envoy sent by Caesar to your state."]}, {"id": "C5.16.20", "lines": ["A rider, with his noblemen, draws near,", "And seeks an audience with the monarch here.”"]}, {"id": "C5.16.21", "lines": ["Lohrasp, on hearing, took the ivory seat,", "And wore the crown that made all hearts complete."]}, {"id": "C5.16.22", "lines": ["The kingdom’s great men gathered in their place,", "Each honored by the monarch’s royal grace."]}, {"id": "C5.16.23", "lines": ["The monarch bade them raise the screen and call", "The envoy to a welcome in the hall."]}, {"id": "C5.16.24", "lines": ["He came before the throne and blessings gave,", "Then bowed with reverence, dignified and grave."]}, {"id": "C5.16.25", "lines": ["A man of wisdom and of justice too,", "He gave the Caesar’s message full and true."]}, {"id": "C5.16.26", "lines": ["The Shah was grieved and raged at fortune’s turn;", "Within him anger’s hidden fires would burn."]}, {"id": "C5.16.27", "lines": ["They had a splendid banquet hall prepared,", "With wine and harp and minstrel voices shared."]}, {"id": "C5.16.28", "lines": ["The Shah sent cloth of gold and garments fine,", "With food and gifts and every courtly sign."]}, {"id": "C5.16.29", "lines": ["He welcomed Kalus, honoring his stay,", "As though no threat of battle came that day."]}, {"id": "C5.16.30", "lines": ["But when night fell, anxiety took hold;", "He lay like one whom pain and grief enfold."]}, {"id": "C5.16.31", "lines": ["When sun sat crowned upon the golden height,", "And black night tore its face and fled from sight,"]}, {"id": "C5.16.32", "lines": ["The monarch called Zarir and spoke at length;", "Their counsel gathered wisdom, wrath, and strength."]}, {"id": "C5.16.33", "lines": ["At daybreak Kalus sought the Shah; the door", "Swung open, and he crossed the royal floor."]}, {"id": "C5.16.34", "lines": ["They cleared the hall of strangers, then brought in", "The envoy, grave of face, serene within."]}, {"id": "C5.16.35", "lines": ["Lohrasp addressed him: “Man of learned lore,", "May wisdom feed your spirit evermore."]}, {"id": "C5.16.36", "lines": ["I question you; now answer what is true,", "And do not bend to guile in what you do."]}, {"id": "C5.16.37", "lines": ["Rum never had such power in days gone by;", "Before the Shahs, her Caesar stood less high."]}, {"id": "C5.16.38", "lines": ["Yet now he sends and asks for tribute due", "From every realm, with throne and kingship too."]}, {"id": "C5.16.39", "lines": ["Ilyas, who ruled the kingdom of Khazar,", "Was full of farr, a warrior famed afar."]}, {"id": "C5.16.40", "lines": ["Who took that chief and bound his fighting band;", "Who taught him then to make this bold demand?”"]}, {"id": "C5.16.41", "lines": ["The envoy said, “Wise Shah, I went before", "To ask Khazar for tribute to his store."]}, {"id": "C5.16.42", "lines": ["On embassies I bore much toil and pain;", "None asked me this through all that weary strain."]}, {"id": "C5.16.43", "lines": ["But you have treated me with such regard", "That falsehood now would leave my answer marred."]}, {"id": "C5.16.44", "lines": ["A rider has arrived in Caesar’s land,", "Who takes the lion from the wood by hand."]}, {"id": "C5.16.45", "lines": ["On battle-days he laughs at warrior might;", "At feasts he drains the goblet with delight."]}, {"id": "C5.16.46", "lines": ["In fight, in feast, and on the hunting-day,", "No living man can rival his display."]}, {"id": "C5.16.47", "lines": ["To him the Caesar gave his daughter fair,", "Dearer than crown or throne or jeweled chair."]}, {"id": "C5.16.48", "lines": ["His tale is told throughout the Roman land:", "The mighty dragon fell beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "C5.16.49", "lines": ["A wolf, an elephant in bulk and height,", "Had made the Caesar shun its haunts in fright."]}, {"id": "C5.16.50", "lines": ["He slew the wolf and tore its teeth away,", "And freed the Romans, who had been its prey.”"]}, {"id": "C5.16.51", "lines": ["Lohrasp then asked, “You speak the truth; declare", "What warrior’s shape and stature does he share?”"]}, {"id": "C5.16.52", "lines": ["The envoy answered, “First, his face and brow", "Could pass for brave Zarir’s beside you now."]}, {"id": "C5.16.53", "lines": ["In stature, bearing, culture, judgment clear,", "You would believe you saw the same Zarir.”"]}, {"id": "C5.16.54", "lines": ["Lohrasp’s face brightened at the words he heard;", "He showed the Roman kindness, deeply stirred."]}, {"id": "C5.16.55", "lines": ["He gave him slaves and purses richly weighed;", "The envoy left rejoicing, well repaid."]}, {"id": "C5.16.56", "lines": ["Lohrasp said, “Tell the Caesar I shall bring", "My troops to meet him as a warring king.”"]}, {"id": "C5.17.1", "lines": ["Lohrasp sat long in thought; he sent to call", "Zarir, who came before him in the hall."]}, {"id": "C5.17.2", "lines": ["He said, “This is your brother; do not stay.", "Prepare to settle this and ride away."]}, {"id": "C5.17.3", "lines": ["Delay will spoil our purpose; do not rest.", "Choose no slow steed to carry out this quest."]}, {"id": "C5.17.4", "lines": ["Take throne, led horse, and boots of beaten gold,", "The crown, and Kaveh’s banner, prized of old."]}, {"id": "C5.17.5", "lines": ["I give him all this kingdom; let him reign.", "No debt of gratitude shall be his chain."]}, {"id": "C5.17.6", "lines": ["Go now to Halab; speak of war alone,", "And let no other purpose there be known.”"]}, {"id": "C5.17.7", "lines": ["The noble Zarir answered, “I shall go;", "The hidden mystery I soon shall know."]}, {"id": "C5.17.8", "lines": ["If this is brave Goshtasb, then all shall see", "That every lord must bow on bended knee.”"]}, {"id": "C5.17.9", "lines": ["He spoke, then made his preparations straight,", "And chose a force of warriors, brave and great."]}, {"id": "C5.17.10", "lines": ["From Kavus’s stock and Gudarz’ line they came,", "The house of Keshvad, men of noble name."]}, {"id": "C5.17.11", "lines": ["From Zarasp’s kin came Bahram, lions’ bane,", "And brave Rivniz among the chosen train."]}, {"id": "C5.17.12", "lines": ["Two grandsons of brave Giv joined in the ride:", "Shiruya and Ardeshir, side by side."]}, {"id": "C5.17.13", "lines": ["Two lions born of Bijan’s noble line,", "Two stainless warriors, proud in war to shine."]}, {"id": "C5.17.14", "lines": ["Each chieftain went with two steeds for the road,", "And like Azargashasp their armor glowed."]}, {"id": "C5.17.15", "lines": ["None rested till they reached Halab’s frontier;", "War’s tumult filled the world and every ear."]}, {"id": "C5.17.16", "lines": ["They raised the royal standard; on the ground", "They pitched their tents, with screens erected round."]}, {"id": "C5.17.17", "lines": ["Zarir left proud Bahram to lead the force,", "Then rode away upon his chosen course."]}, {"id": "C5.17.18", "lines": ["As one who bears a message to a king,", "Or comes before his throne with news to bring,"]}, {"id": "C5.17.19", "lines": ["With five picked men he rode upon his quest,", "Alert and wise, with courage in each chest."]}, {"id": "C5.17.20", "lines": ["When he arrived within the Caesar’s court,", "The chamberlain saw him and gave a report."]}, {"id": "C5.17.21", "lines": ["Within the palace Caesar sat in gloom,", "With Kalus and Goshtasb in the room."]}, {"id": "C5.17.22", "lines": ["The Caesar heard and let Zarir draw near;", "Goshtasb’s heart grew glad to see him here."]}, {"id": "C5.17.23", "lines": ["Zarir came in, a cypress, straight and tall,", "And sat upon a throne within the hall."]}, {"id": "C5.17.24", "lines": ["He hailed the Caesar, and due praise he paid,", "And honored all the Romans there arrayed."]}, {"id": "C5.17.25", "lines": ["Then Caesar said, “You slight Farrokhzad here,", "And heed no rule of courtesy or fear.”"]}, {"id": "C5.17.26", "lines": ["Zarir replied, “This slave at last grew tired", "Of all the service that his shah required."]}, {"id": "C5.17.27", "lines": ["He fled the royal court to reach your land,", "And now enjoys high rank at your command.”"]}, {"id": "C5.17.28", "lines": ["Goshtasb heard, but answered not a word,", "As though no thought of Iran in him stirred."]}, {"id": "C5.17.29", "lines": ["Shrewd Caesar, hearing what the envoy said,", "Grew grave, with troubled thoughts within his head."]}, {"id": "C5.17.30", "lines": ["He thought, “These words could well be true and sound;", "No hidden falsehood in them can be found.”"]}, {"id": "C5.17.31", "lines": ["Then Caesar said, “Now, envoy, speak and tell", "Of war and warriors, all you know so well.”"]}, {"id": "C5.17.32", "lines": ["Zarir declared Lohrasp’s command: “If He,", "The Judge, holds fast to justice, you shall see:"]}, {"id": "C5.17.33", "lines": ["No land shall give you refuge in your flight,", "If you abandon Rum and flee my might."]}, {"id": "C5.17.34", "lines": ["I shall make Rum my seat and leave a few", "In all Iran when I march here to you."]}, {"id": "C5.17.35", "lines": ["Set forth, O warrior; make ready now;", "Delay no more once you have heard my vow."]}, {"id": "C5.17.36", "lines": ["Iran is not Khazar, nor am I one", "Like conquered Ilyas, whose power is done.”"]}, {"id": "C5.17.37", "lines": ["The Caesar answered, “I prepare for war;", "My hands reach out for battle more and more."]}, {"id": "C5.17.38", "lines": ["You are an envoy; now return and tell:", "We shall prepare the field of battle well.”"]}, {"id": "C5.17.39", "lines": ["Zarir grew troubled at the words he heard,", "And long remained without an answering word."]}, {"id": "C5.18.1", "lines": ["Then Caesar rose and asked, “Why did you hide", "Your answer from the envoy at your side?”"]}, {"id": "C5.18.2", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “Before this, I remained", "At Iran’s court, where its great monarch reigned."]}, {"id": "C5.18.3", "lines": ["His chiefs and warriors know me, one and all;", "They know my deeds in battle and in hall."]}, {"id": "C5.18.4", "lines": ["The wiser course is that I seek their side,", "And speak and listen before arms decide."]}, {"id": "C5.18.5", "lines": ["I shall obtain for you your heart’s desire,", "And raise your name through all the world like fire.”"]}, {"id": "C5.18.6", "lines": ["“You are more wise than I,” the Caesar said,", "“And better fit to carry this ahead.”"]}, {"id": "C5.18.7", "lines": ["Goshtasb then mounted on his eager steed,", "And acted on the counsel just agreed."]}, {"id": "C5.18.8", "lines": ["Crowned, he rode forth to reach Zarir’s abode;", "His wind-swift charger bore him down the road."]}, {"id": "C5.18.9", "lines": ["The warriors saw Lohrasp’s son appear,", "Goshtasb, that noble prince they held so dear."]}, {"id": "C5.18.10", "lines": ["With aching hearts and faces wet with tears,", "They came on foot, those warriors and peers."]}, {"id": "C5.18.11", "lines": ["They bowed before him, praising him at last:", "Their long and bitter days of grief had passed."]}, {"id": "C5.18.12", "lines": ["Zarir dismounted as his brother came,", "No longer stirred by war’s consuming flame."]}, {"id": "C5.18.13", "lines": ["Goshtasb embraced the brother he held dear,", "And made excuses, humble and sincere."]}, {"id": "C5.18.14", "lines": ["They sat together in the royal hall,", "With Iran’s chiefs and warriors one and all."]}, {"id": "C5.18.15", "lines": ["The blessed Zarir said, “May fortune stay", "Beside you through the years and never stray."]}, {"id": "C5.18.16", "lines": ["Our father now is old; why stay away?", "Your heart is young, but his hair has turned gray."]}, {"id": "C5.18.17", "lines": ["The throne now brings him weariness and pain;", "He seeks God’s path, not sovereignty or gain."]}, {"id": "C5.18.18", "lines": ["He sends you crown and treasure to relieve", "The pain you bear; no longer should you grieve."]}, {"id": "C5.18.19", "lines": ["His words were these: ‘I lay my kingship down;", "Yours are the army, treasure, throne, and crown."]}, {"id": "C5.18.20", "lines": ["For me, one corner of the world will do;", "The throne of greatness now belongs to you."]}, {"id": "C5.18.21", "lines": ["Your brother brings the crown and torque of gold,", "The armlet and the ivory throne of old.’”"]}, {"id": "C5.18.22", "lines": ["Goshtasb rejoiced before his father’s throne,", "And sat, crowned, on the seat that was his own."]}, {"id": "C5.18.23", "lines": ["Kay Kavus’s scions came to celebrate", "With Gudarz’s descendants, blessed by fate."]}, {"id": "C5.18.24", "lines": ["Bahram and Shapur stood among the great,", "With Rivniz, men of wealth and high estate."]}, {"id": "C5.18.25", "lines": ["All hailed him Shah and king of earth aloud,", "Their sovereign, ruler of the world; they bowed."]}, {"id": "C5.18.26", "lines": ["The warriors stood before him, belted tight,", "Those seasoned men who faced the fiercest fight."]}, {"id": "C5.18.27", "lines": ["Goshtasb perceived their loyalty was true,", "And sent the Caesar words of friendship due:"]}, {"id": "C5.18.28", "lines": ["“Your wish with Iran has at last been won;", "More than you sought has now been said and done."]}, {"id": "C5.18.29", "lines": ["Zarir and all the army wait for you;", "Come to this camp and greet the chiefs you knew."]}, {"id": "C5.18.30", "lines": ["We all shall pledge you friendship, true and whole,", "And each shall give as surety his soul."]}, {"id": "C5.18.31", "lines": ["So come, if coming brings you no distress;", "Your hoped-for purpose now has found success.”"]}, {"id": "C5.18.32", "lines": ["The envoy entered Caesar’s royal hall,", "And told him what had passed, recounting all."]}, {"id": "C5.18.33", "lines": ["Then Caesar mounted, and his wind-foot steed", "Bore him to seal the pact they had agreed."]}, {"id": "C5.18.34", "lines": ["He rode until he reached Iran’s array,", "And saw the noble warriors on his way."]}, {"id": "C5.18.35", "lines": ["Goshtasb rose before him, straight and tall,", "Above the other nobles in the hall."]}, {"id": "C5.18.36", "lines": ["He clasped the Caesar warmly at first sight,", "And spoke of former days, now brought to light."]}, {"id": "C5.18.37", "lines": ["Then Caesar knew Goshtasb was his true name,", "The son who made Lohrasp’s crown shine with fame."]}, {"id": "C5.18.38", "lines": ["He praised him greatly, bowed with deep respect;", "Then both sat down, as honor would direct."]}, {"id": "C5.18.39", "lines": ["Then Caesar made excuses for the past,", "Amazed by fortune’s change so deep and vast."]}, {"id": "C5.18.40", "lines": ["Goshtasb accepted all the monarch said,", "And drew him close and gently held his head."]}, {"id": "C5.18.41", "lines": ["He said, “When heaven darkens into night,", "And it is time to set the lamps alight,"]}, {"id": "C5.18.42", "lines": ["Send her who chose me as her husband here;", "She has endured much sorrow, pain, and fear.”"]}, {"id": "C5.18.43", "lines": ["Ashamed and weary, Caesar left the place,", "To ponder how his deeds had brought disgrace."]}, {"id": "C5.18.44", "lines": ["He sent to Katayun abundant gold,", "A crown, five rubies, treasures manifold,"]}, {"id": "C5.18.45", "lines": ["A thousand Roman slaves, both girls and boys,", "A jeweled torque among the royal joys,"]}, {"id": "C5.18.46", "lines": ["Five camel-loads of Chinese brocade rare,", "With wealth entrusted to a sage’s care,"]}, {"id": "C5.18.47", "lines": ["With Arab steeds in bargostvan, a train,", "With padded coats and robes from Hind’s domain,"]}, {"id": "C5.18.48", "lines": ["With dinars, brocades, crowns, and gems that shone,", "And goods from Rum and Chin brought to the throne."]}, {"id": "C5.18.49", "lines": ["The sage conveyed the treasure to the court,", "And to its keeper gave a full report."]}, {"id": "C5.18.50", "lines": ["To Iran’s chiefs and warriors, to each heir", "Of noble blood and honored everywhere,"]}, {"id": "C5.18.51", "lines": ["To every notable and swordsman brave,", "Both arms and money Caesar freely gave."]}, {"id": "C5.18.52", "lines": ["He sent fine presents to each captain’s hand,", "And every man was gifted in that band."]}, {"id": "C5.18.53", "lines": ["He praised the One who fashioned earth and time,", "And spread his blessings on that Lord sublime."]}, {"id": "C5.18.54", "lines": ["Then Katayun arrived, and from the court", "The royal tabira rang its report."]}, {"id": "C5.18.55", "lines": ["The horses’ dust rose up and veiled the sky,", "As troops rode toward Iran with banners high."]}, {"id": "C5.18.56", "lines": ["For two full stages Caesar rode the track;", "Then Goshtasb turned the monarch’s charger back."]}, {"id": "C5.18.57", "lines": ["With oaths of friendship, back to Rum he sent", "The Caesar, blessing him the way he went."]}, {"id": "C5.18.58", "lines": ["“While I still live, no tribute shall be due;", "My heart shall cherish Rum with friendship true.”"]}, {"id": "C5.18.59", "lines": ["He journeyed on until Iran drew near,", "And reached the land of warriors without peer."]}, {"id": "C5.18.60", "lines": ["When Shah Lohrasp heard Goshtasb neared the town", "With brave Zarir, his brother of renown,"]}, {"id": "C5.18.61", "lines": ["He went with Iran’s chiefs in bright array,", "With all the mighty warriors on the way."]}, {"id": "C5.18.62", "lines": ["Goshtasb dismounted quickly from his steed,", "And kissed the earth, from sorrow’s burden freed."]}, {"id": "C5.18.63", "lines": ["Lohrasp beheld his son and clasped him tight,", "And mourned harsh heaven at that painful sight."]}, {"id": "C5.18.64", "lines": ["They reached the palace, dazzling every eye,", "Like sun in Pisces, shining from on high."]}, {"id": "C5.18.65", "lines": ["Lohrasp said, “Do not lay the blame on me;", "This was the Maker’s will and firm decree."]}, {"id": "C5.18.66", "lines": ["Perhaps this fate was written at your birth:", "Your realm would lack your presence on its earth.”"]}, {"id": "C5.18.67", "lines": ["Lohrasp then kissed Goshtasb and crowned his head,", "And joyfully his royal blessings spread."]}, {"id": "C5.18.68", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “O Shah, may God sustain", "Your life and keep your glory free from stain."]}, {"id": "C5.18.69", "lines": ["Though you exalt me, I remain your man;", "To honor you, I shall do all I can."]}, {"id": "C5.18.70", "lines": ["May all your aims be prosperous and bright;", "May your great fame endure in lasting light."]}, {"id": "C5.18.71", "lines": ["The world remains with no man; every breath", "Within the body bears its toil till death.”"]}, {"id": "C5.18.72", "lines": ["Such is this fickle world; with might and main,", "From sowing seeds of evil here refrain."]}, {"id": "C5.18.73", "lines": ["I ask the one just God to grant me days,", "To linger here a while beneath His gaze,"]}, {"id": "C5.18.74", "lines": ["And finish in the finest words I know", "This book of kings who ruled so long ago."]}, {"id": "C5.18.75", "lines": ["Then earth may claim this living frame of mine;", "My speaking soul regains its source divine."]}]}, {"id": "C6", "title": "Goshtasb, Zardosht, and the War with Arjasp", "summary": "33 sections · 1,482 couplets", "path": "/poem/c6/", "couplets": [{"id": "C6.1.1", "lines": ["Thus was it that one night the poet dreamed:", "Within his cup, wine like rosewater gleamed."]}, {"id": "C6.1.2", "lines": ["Daqiqi then appeared and, drawing near,", "Told tales about the wine-cup, loud and clear."]}, {"id": "C6.1.3", "lines": ["He called, “Ferdowsi, when you drink, be true", "To Kay Kavus’s custom in all you do."]}, {"id": "C6.1.4", "lines": ["You chose a king in whom his throne takes pride,", "With crown and Fortune standing at his side."]}, {"id": "C6.1.5", "lines": ["Mahmud, the conquering king whom realms acclaim,", "Brings joy to mighty and to poor the same."]}, {"id": "C6.1.6", "lines": ["For eighty-five years, sorrow shall not grow,", "Nor shall his treasure dwindle, sinking low."]}, {"id": "C6.1.7", "lines": ["Hereafter he will march on Chin in force,", "And every chief will clear his army’s course."]}, {"id": "C6.1.8", "lines": ["No harsh word need he speak throughout the land;", "All royal crowns shall come into his hand."]}, {"id": "C6.1.9", "lines": ["If over this great tale you long have striven,", "All that your heart desired is now given."]}, {"id": "C6.1.10", "lines": ["I sang of this before; if you should see", "My verses, keep them in your book for me."]}, {"id": "C6.1.11", "lines": ["A thousand couplets told, before I passed,", "Of Goshtasb and Arjasp; they were my last."]}, {"id": "C6.1.12", "lines": ["Should these words reach the king, my soul will soon", "Rise from the dust and soar up to the moon.”"]}, {"id": "C6.1.13", "lines": ["So now I give his verses, which survive;", "He joined the dust, while I remain alive."]}, {"id": "C6.2.1", "lines": ["When old Lohrasp descended from the throne,", "He gave Goshtasb the crown to be his own."]}, {"id": "C6.2.2", "lines": ["To Nowbahar in Balkh he made his way,", "And left the throne to worship God and pray."]}, {"id": "C6.2.3", "lines": ["The worshippers of fire in former days", "Had held that shrine in reverence and praise."]}, {"id": "C6.2.4", "lines": ["As Arabs now revere great Mecca’s shrine,", "So men revered that holy place divine."]}, {"id": "C6.2.5", "lines": ["The Shah, that man of God, arrived and reined", "His horse, dismounted, and the precinct gained."]}, {"id": "C6.2.6", "lines": ["He closed the portal of that holy place;", "No kin or stranger crossed its sacred space."]}, {"id": "C6.2.7", "lines": ["He wore coarse wool, the robe of prayer and praise;", "So should men honor wisdom all their days."]}, {"id": "C6.2.8", "lines": ["He put his armlets off, let long hair fall,", "And served the righteous Judge, Yazdan of all."]}, {"id": "C6.2.9", "lines": ["For thirty years he stood in prayer each day,", "And kept his heart upon the holy way."]}, {"id": "C6.2.10", "lines": ["He raised his voice in worship of the sun,", "As Jamshid’s ancient holy rite was done."]}, {"id": "C6.2.11", "lines": ["Goshtasb, succeeding to his father’s place,", "Received the throne, farr, Fortune of his race."]}, {"id": "C6.2.12", "lines": ["He donned his father’s gift, the royal crown,", "Fit ornament for men of high renown."]}, {"id": "C6.2.13", "lines": ["He said, “I serve God only; it is He", "Who granted crown and royal throne to me."]}, {"id": "C6.2.14", "lines": ["He gave this crown that I might guard the flock,", "And keep the wolves away from fold and stock."]}, {"id": "C6.2.15", "lines": ["We shall pursue God’s path throughout our reign,", "And let all noble men live free of pain."]}, {"id": "C6.2.16", "lines": ["We shall uphold the ancient royal way,", "And make wrongdoers turn to God and pray.”"]}, {"id": "C6.2.17", "lines": ["Such was the justice spread by this new king:", "The wolf and sheep drank from a single spring."]}, {"id": "C6.2.18", "lines": ["At length Nahid, illustrious Caesar’s child,", "Whom Goshtasb named Katayun, bright and mild,"]}, {"id": "C6.2.19", "lines": ["Bore him two sons, both moonlike in their light:", "Esfandiyar, famed prince of warlike might,"]}, {"id": "C6.2.20", "lines": ["And Bishutan, a valiant swordsman born,", "A prince whose blows made hostile armies mourn."]}, {"id": "C6.2.21", "lines": ["When Goshtasb’s rule was owned by all the earth,", "He longed to give Fereydoon’s age rebirth."]}, {"id": "C6.2.22", "lines": ["All other kings paid tribute at his call,", "And every loyal chieftain served his hall,"]}, {"id": "C6.2.23", "lines": ["Save King Arjasp, who ruled in Turan’s land,", "With Divs as servants, waiting at his hand."]}, {"id": "C6.2.24", "lines": ["He would not pay or hear the Shah explain;", "For spurning counsel, he would wear the chain."]}, {"id": "C6.2.25", "lines": ["He took from Goshtasb tribute year by year;", "Why should a monarch pay it to his peer?"]}, {"id": "C6.3.1", "lines": ["Thus passed a while; then on the earth appeared", "A spreading tree whose many branches reared"]}, {"id": "C6.3.2", "lines": ["Within Goshtasb’s hall toward the palace height,", "Its crown thick-set with boughs, a noble sight."]}, {"id": "C6.3.3", "lines": ["Its leaves were counsel; wisdom hung on high;", "Who tasted of its fruit, how could he die?"]}, {"id": "C6.3.4", "lines": ["That blessed tree was Zardosht, who had slain", "The evil Ahriman and checked his reign."]}, {"id": "C6.3.5", "lines": ["He said, “I am God’s prophet and your guide;", "Through me, the path to God is opened wide.”"]}, {"id": "C6.3.6", "lines": ["He brought a censer, fire within it bright;", "“From Paradise,” he said, “I bring this light."]}, {"id": "C6.3.7", "lines": ["The Maker says, ‘Accept the Faith I show;", "Behold the sky above, the earth below."]}, {"id": "C6.3.8", "lines": ["I made them not from dust and water’s frame;", "Look on My work and know from whom it came."]}, {"id": "C6.3.9", "lines": ["See now if any other power could do", "This work but I, whose rule is just and true."]}, {"id": "C6.3.10", "lines": ["If you acknowledge all that I have shown,", "Then name Me this world’s Maker, Me alone.’"]}, {"id": "C6.3.11", "lines": ["Receive His good religion from my voice,", "And learn His path; make wisdom now your choice."]}, {"id": "C6.3.12", "lines": ["Do as the holy speaker bids you still;", "Choose wisdom; know the world as vain and ill."]}, {"id": "C6.3.13", "lines": ["Learn well the Faith, its customs and its ways;", "Without it, kingship merits little praise.”"]}, {"id": "C6.3.14", "lines": ["When that good Shah had heard the true Faith taught,", "He took its customs into deed and thought."]}, {"id": "C6.3.15", "lines": ["His valiant brother, glorious Zarir, came,", "Who conquered elephants and carried fame."]}, {"id": "C6.3.16", "lines": ["His father, old at Balkh, whose wounded heart", "Found life too bitter, also took his part."]}, {"id": "C6.3.17", "lines": ["From every province came the chiefs, a throng", "Of healers, sages, warriors famed and strong."]}, {"id": "C6.3.18", "lines": ["They gathered to the monarch of the earth,", "And took the cincture in that Faith’s new birth."]}, {"id": "C6.3.19", "lines": ["Then was the farr of God made manifest;", "And evil fled the hearts it had possessed."]}, {"id": "C6.3.20", "lines": ["Idol-worship faded from their sight;", "The sacred fire became the chosen rite."]}, {"id": "C6.3.21", "lines": ["The dakhmas filled with God’s celestial light;", "The lineages were cleansed of every blight."]}, {"id": "C6.3.22", "lines": ["Then high-born Goshtasb sat upon the throne,", "And sent his troops through lands that were his own."]}, {"id": "C6.3.23", "lines": ["He sent the Mobadan through every land,", "And fire-temples rose at his command."]}, {"id": "C6.3.24", "lines": ["First he established Mehr Barzin’s bright flame;", "Behold the rites that through his kingdom came."]}, {"id": "C6.3.25", "lines": ["From Paradise a noble cypress rose;", "Zardosht set it where the sacred fire glows."]}, {"id": "C6.3.26", "lines": ["He carved upon its trunk for all to read:", "“Goshtasb accepts the Good Religion’s creed.”"]}, {"id": "C6.3.27", "lines": ["He made the cypress witness to the rite,", "That wisdom’s justice spread through sacred light."]}, {"id": "C6.3.28", "lines": ["When many years had passed in such a way,", "The cypress grew in height from day to day."]}, {"id": "C6.3.29", "lines": ["The noble tree grew broad as well as tall;", "No kamand could encompass it at all."]}, {"id": "C6.3.30", "lines": ["When many boughs had climbed into the sky,", "He built a palace round it, rising high."]}, {"id": "C6.3.31", "lines": ["It stood a full forty rash high and wide;", "No clay or water helped its walls abide."]}, {"id": "C6.3.32", "lines": ["He built that palace out of gold; he made", "Its floors of silver, ambergris inlaid."]}, {"id": "C6.3.33", "lines": ["There he had painted mighty Jamshid’s face,", "In worship of the sun and moon’s bright grace."]}, {"id": "C6.3.34", "lines": ["He also ordered Fereydoon portrayed,", "Armed with the ox-head gorz his hand had swayed."]}, {"id": "C6.3.35", "lines": ["He painted every ruler, heir by heir;", "Consider whether power lived elsewhere."]}, {"id": "C6.3.36", "lines": ["When that famed golden hall stood rich and fair,", "He set its walls with jewels everywhere."]}, {"id": "C6.3.37", "lines": ["He raised an iron rampart round about;", "There Goshtasb dwelt, secure from fear and doubt."]}, {"id": "C6.3.38", "lines": ["He sent through every realm this firm decree:", "“What cypress rivals Kishmar’s sacred tree?"]}, {"id": "C6.3.39", "lines": ["God sent it down from Paradise, and bade", "Me seek that realm from this same cypress shade."]}, {"id": "C6.3.40", "lines": ["Now hear my counsel: journey from your lands", "On foot to Kishmar, where the cypress stands."]}, {"id": "C6.3.41", "lines": ["Adopt the path Zardosht revealed as true,", "And cast Chin’s worshiped idols far from you."]}, {"id": "C6.3.42", "lines": ["In Iran’s royal name, with farr allied,", "Bind on the sacred cincture, firmly tied."]}, {"id": "C6.3.43", "lines": ["Heed not the customs of your former sires;", "Rest in this cypress shade, as Faith requires."]}, {"id": "C6.3.44", "lines": ["Turn toward the fire-temple’s dome, and do", "What Zardosht’s truthful words command of you.”"]}, {"id": "C6.3.45", "lines": ["He spread his words through all the world’s domain,", "Among the men of name and those who reign."]}, {"id": "C6.3.46", "lines": ["At his command all crowns to Kishmar came,", "Toward the noble cypress of great fame."]}, {"id": "C6.3.47", "lines": ["The shrine became a paradise of light;", "There Zardosht bound the Div and broke its might."]}, {"id": "C6.3.48", "lines": ["Call it a tree of Paradise; why prize", "The cypress just as Kishmar’s in men’s eyes?"]}, {"id": "C6.3.49", "lines": ["Why not a shoot of Paradise, brought down", "And set at Kishmar by the Kayanian crown?"]}, {"id": "C6.4.1", "lines": ["Time passed; Zardosht grew old beneath its weight,", "And came to speak of faith and royal state."]}, {"id": "C6.4.2", "lines": ["He said, “Our sacred law does not allow", "That we before the prince of Chin should bow."]}, {"id": "C6.4.3", "lines": ["To pay him tribute does not fit our creed;", "Our Faith cannot approve of such a deed."]}, {"id": "C6.4.4", "lines": ["Moreover, I cannot consent to this;", "The former Shahs would deem such gifts amiss."]}, {"id": "C6.4.5", "lines": ["No Shah of ours paid tribute in that hour", "To Turks who lacked both faith and kingly power.”"]}, {"id": "C6.4.6", "lines": ["Goshtasb assented: “I shall give command", "That no more tribute leave our ancient land.”"]}, {"id": "C6.4.7", "lines": ["A mighty Div, when he had heard this thing,", "Went straight to Chin and spoke before its king:"]}, {"id": "C6.4.8", "lines": ["“O monarch, all beneath the turning sphere,", "All men alike, your sovereign name revere."]}, {"id": "C6.4.9", "lines": ["They all obey the orders you proclaim;", "None turns aside or dares dispute your claim,"]}, {"id": "C6.4.10", "lines": ["Except Goshtasb, Shah Lohrasp’s son, whose force", "Now takes against the Turks its marching course."]}, {"id": "C6.4.11", "lines": ["He has established here another creed,", "And shunned the idols, both in word and deed."]}, {"id": "C6.4.12", "lines": ["He shows his hatred openly to you;", "How dares he boast against a king so true?"]}, {"id": "C6.4.13", "lines": ["More than a hundred thousand horsemen ride", "At my command; call, and they join your side."]}, {"id": "C6.4.14", "lines": ["Go then; pursue this matter to its end;", "Fear not the strife if he should dare contend.”"]}, {"id": "C6.4.15", "lines": ["Arjasp, when he had heard the Div’s report,", "Stepped from his throne before the gathered court."]}, {"id": "C6.4.16", "lines": ["His heart grew heavy, burdened by dismay;", "He sickened as his strength was drained away."]}, {"id": "C6.4.17", "lines": ["He summoned priests and told them what he heard,", "Then spoke to all the council, word by word:"]}, {"id": "C6.4.18", "lines": ["“Goshtasb has lost his wisdom and his way;", "His farr and pure religion now decay."]}, {"id": "C6.4.19", "lines": ["A foolish elder has appeared to claim", "The prophet’s office in the Maker’s name."]}, {"id": "C6.4.20", "lines": ["He says, ‘From Heaven’s heights to earth I came,", "Sent by Yazdan who shaped creation’s frame."]}, {"id": "C6.4.21", "lines": ["I saw Yazdan within His Paradise;", "He wrote the Zand-Avesta, true and wise."]}, {"id": "C6.4.22", "lines": ["I also saw dark Ahriman in Hell,", "But dared not venture where that fiend must dwell."]}, {"id": "C6.4.23", "lines": ["Yazdan then sent me forth to teach His creed,", "And guide earth’s monarch in its word and deed.’"]}, {"id": "C6.4.24", "lines": ["The chief among Iran’s great men of fame,", "Goshtasb, Lohrasp’s illustrious son by name,"]}, {"id": "C6.4.25", "lines": ["Has bound the cincture firmly round his waist,", "And turned to this new Faith with reckless haste."]}, {"id": "C6.4.26", "lines": ["His brother too, courageous, without fear,", "Has joined him; chief of Iran’s force, Zarir."]}, {"id": "C6.4.27", "lines": ["His father, numbered with the brave and true,", "Has turned and joined the elder’s followers too."]}, {"id": "C6.4.28", "lines": ["All gather now to learn what they are shown;", "The old magician makes their minds his own."]}, {"id": "C6.4.29", "lines": ["With one consent they have embraced his way;", "His rites and customs fill the world today."]}, {"id": "C6.4.30", "lines": ["By tricks and shameless fraud he spreads his claim,", "And dares to speak as prophet in God’s name."]}, {"id": "C6.4.31", "lines": ["He kindled fire and took it in his hand,", "And barred the former worship of the land."]}, {"id": "C6.4.32", "lines": ["A censer full of fire he then displayed", "Before the king, whom all the realm obeyed."]}, {"id": "C6.4.33", "lines": ["He calls this teaching Zand-Avesta’s light,", "And trusts the blazing fire that burns so bright."]}, {"id": "C6.4.34", "lines": ["I shall write to that rebel ruler now,", "Who will no longer heed my word or bow."]}, {"id": "C6.4.35", "lines": ["Rich gifts shall follow, freely from my store;", "A gift not sought is valued all the more."]}, {"id": "C6.4.36", "lines": ["I shall say: ‘Leave this evil course; hold fast", "To awe of God, and shun your errors past."]}, {"id": "C6.4.37", "lines": ["Cast that old miscreant from your council hall,", "And hold a feast by customs shared by all.’"]}, {"id": "C6.4.38", "lines": ["If he accepts advice, his feet will know", "No galling bonds, nor chains of shame and woe."]}, {"id": "C6.4.39", "lines": ["But if he will not hear the words we send,", "And stirs old feuds that counsel cannot mend,"]}, {"id": "C6.4.40", "lines": ["We shall collect our scattered troops again,", "And muster into one our fighting men."]}, {"id": "C6.4.41", "lines": ["We shall march on Iran along his track,", "Nor fear the pain and fury of attack."]}, {"id": "C6.4.42", "lines": ["We shall expel him, shamed, his honor gone,", "And hang him living with his fetters on.”"]}, {"id": "C6.5.1", "lines": ["The warriors of Chin approved it too,", "And chose two envoys from their retinue."]}, {"id": "C6.5.2", "lines": ["One was Bidarfesh, fierce and strong and bold,", "A warrior versed in spells, a warlock old."]}, {"id": "C6.5.3", "lines": ["Namkhast, the other, practiced magic lore;", "His heart desired destruction, nothing more."]}, {"id": "C6.5.4", "lines": ["The monarch wrote a fair and royal page", "To that famed Shah who chose the holy sage."]}, {"id": "C6.5.5", "lines": ["“First, in the name of Him whose sight sees through", "All hidden things and all things plain to view."]}, {"id": "C6.5.6", "lines": ["This royal letter, worthy of a king,", "To Iran’s chief and warrior I bring:"]}, {"id": "C6.5.7", "lines": ["To brave Goshtasb, ruler of the land,", "Whose worth deserves the throne at his command;"]}, {"id": "C6.5.8", "lines": ["Defender of the realm and royal state,", "The eldest son of Shah Lohrasp the great;"]}, {"id": "C6.5.9", "lines": ["From Prince Arjasp, whose might in Chin is known,", "A chosen man, whose conquests grace his throne.”"]}, {"id": "C6.5.10", "lines": ["He wrote fair greetings in the Turkish hand,", "Addressed to Goshtasb, ruler of the land:"]}, {"id": "C6.5.11", "lines": ["“O famous Shah, whose name has won renown", "Through all the world, you light the throne and crown."]}, {"id": "C6.5.12", "lines": ["May soul and body flourish, strong and hale;", "May strength about your royal waist not fail."]}, {"id": "C6.5.13", "lines": ["I hear you chose a path that leads astray,", "And turned to blackest night my shining day."]}, {"id": "C6.5.14", "lines": ["A lying elder has approached your side,", "And filled your heart with terror as your guide."]}, {"id": "C6.5.15", "lines": ["He spoke of Hell and Heaven’s promised part,", "And left no trace of gladness in your heart."]}, {"id": "C6.5.16", "lines": ["You have accepted him and his strange creed,", "And glorified his doctrine and his deed."]}, {"id": "C6.5.17", "lines": ["You flung aside the customs of the Shahs,", "The world’s great men, your fathers and their laws."]}, {"id": "C6.5.18", "lines": ["You cast aside the Pahlevans’ old lore;", "Why weigh no past or future anymore?"]}, {"id": "C6.5.19", "lines": ["You are the son of him whom, over all,", "The glorious Shah crowned in the royal hall."]}, {"id": "C6.5.20", "lines": ["Supreme Ormozd, who brought the world to birth,", "Who fashioned all the heavens and the earth,"]}, {"id": "C6.5.21", "lines": ["Chose you above His chosen, gave you place", "Before the sons of Jamshid’s royal race."]}, {"id": "C6.5.22", "lines": ["Like Kay Khosrow, avenger, lord of fame,", "Above the Kayanians rose your name."]}, {"id": "C6.5.23", "lines": ["You bore both kingly might and grace that blazed,", "With Fortune, power, and standards proudly raised."]}, {"id": "C6.5.24", "lines": ["You had great armies, elephants arrayed", "In jowshans, treasuries that none had weighed."]}, {"id": "C6.5.25", "lines": ["All these were yours, O Shah of noble name;", "Your chiefs were loyal, cherishing your fame."]}, {"id": "C6.5.26", "lines": ["Like Ordibehesht’s sun in Aries bright,", "You shone upon the world with royal light."]}, {"id": "C6.5.27", "lines": ["God gave to you the kingship of the earth;", "Your chiefs stood ranked before your sovereign worth."]}, {"id": "C6.5.28", "lines": ["You failed to thank the Maker for His care,", "And failed to honor all He made you share."]}, {"id": "C6.5.29", "lines": ["Though God had raised you to the royal seat,", "An aged mage misled you with deceit."]}, {"id": "C6.5.30", "lines": ["When news of this arrived from far away,", "The shock so struck me, I saw stars by day."]}, {"id": "C6.5.31", "lines": ["Now I have written as a friend to you,", "For I am loyal, both allied and true."]}, {"id": "C6.5.32", "lines": ["When you have read it, wash your head and frame,", "And turn away from him who makes this claim."]}, {"id": "C6.5.33", "lines": ["Unfasten now the cincture at your waist,", "And drink bright wine; its former sweetness taste."]}, {"id": "C6.5.34", "lines": ["Keep to the customs of the Shahs of old;", "Your mighty fathers’ laws you must uphold."]}, {"id": "C6.5.35", "lines": ["If you accept this counsel, fair and wise,", "No harm from Turkish hands shall cloud your skies."]}, {"id": "C6.5.36", "lines": ["Chin and Kashan, with all the Turks’ domain,", "Shall, like Iran, lie subject to your reign."]}, {"id": "C6.5.37", "lines": ["I will bestow on you my boundless store,", "Won by my own toil in the days before."]}, {"id": "C6.5.38", "lines": ["Fine-coated steeds with gold and silver bright,", "With gemmed caparisons of royal light,"]}, {"id": "C6.5.39", "lines": ["With treasure, boys enslaved shall be conveyed,", "And lovely maids, their curling hair displayed."]}, {"id": "C6.5.40", "lines": ["But if you will not take this counsel well,", "My iron chains shall bind you where you dwell."]}, {"id": "C6.5.41", "lines": ["Within a month or two I follow on;", "Your realm shall sink, its crown and Fortune gone."]}, {"id": "C6.5.42", "lines": ["An army from the Turks and Chin shall rise,", "Their camp too vast for earth beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "C6.5.43", "lines": ["With musk I shall fill Jihun to its shore,", "And dry the sea till waters flow no more."]}, {"id": "C6.5.44", "lines": ["Your painted palace I shall wrap in flame,", "Destroy your roots and branches, end your name."]}, {"id": "C6.5.45", "lines": ["Your land shall burn; my arrows, driven through,", "Shall pierce your shoulders, every one of you."]}, {"id": "C6.5.46", "lines": ["The aged men of Iran, worn and frail,", "Would make poor slaves, of little worth for sale."]}, {"id": "C6.5.47", "lines": ["Since they would bring no profit to my store,", "I shall behead them; they shall live no more."]}, {"id": "C6.5.48", "lines": ["Their wives and children I shall drive away,", "To be my slaves, and serve me, and obey."]}, {"id": "C6.5.49", "lines": ["I shall lay waste their country, strip it bare,", "And tear up all their trees, however fair."]}, {"id": "C6.5.50", "lines": ["So much I had to say; now do your part,", "And lay this letter’s counsel to your heart.”"]}, {"id": "C6.6.1", "lines": ["When Arjasp’s minister, with thought profound,", "Had shaped the letter, captains gathered round,"]}, {"id": "C6.6.2", "lines": ["Arjasp then rolled and sealed the written scroll,", "And gave it to the warlocks dark of soul."]}, {"id": "C6.6.3", "lines": ["He said, “Be prudent; go with one accord,", "And both together enter where that lord"]}, {"id": "C6.6.4", "lines": ["Sits on his throne; when you behold his state,", "Bow low before him; do not stand and wait."]}, {"id": "C6.6.5", "lines": ["Give him the homage Shahs have always known;", "Do not yet look upon his crown and throne."]}, {"id": "C6.6.6", "lines": ["When you are seated, slowly lift your gaze,", "And look upon the crown, its gold ablaze."]}, {"id": "C6.6.7", "lines": ["Deliver then my clear, enlightening word,", "And mark whatever answer shall be heard."]}, {"id": "C6.6.8", "lines": ["When he has answered all, bow low and bend", "To kiss the earth; then let your audience end.”"]}, {"id": "C6.6.9", "lines": ["Then vengeful Bidarfesh went on his way,", "And bore his banner toward Balkh that day."]}, {"id": "C6.6.10", "lines": ["Namkhast went with him, reckless in his shame;", "Avoid such men if you would keep your name."]}, {"id": "C6.6.11", "lines": ["From Turan they reached Balkh and left their steeds,", "Then sought the court to serve their master’s needs."]}, {"id": "C6.6.12", "lines": ["They came on foot before his royal place,", "And on the threshold laid each lowered face."]}, {"id": "C6.6.13", "lines": ["They saw his face above the royal throne,", "Like sun above the moon in splendor shown."]}, {"id": "C6.6.14", "lines": ["They knelt before him as before a king,", "With all the homage slaves to monarchs bring."]}, {"id": "C6.6.15", "lines": ["Then they delivered him Arjasp’s command,", "The letter written in the Turkish hand."]}, {"id": "C6.6.16", "lines": ["The Shah, on opening the letter, raged;", "He writhed in wrath that nothing yet assuaged."]}, {"id": "C6.6.17", "lines": ["He called Jamasp, his counselor of worth,", "Whose wisdom guided him in rule on earth."]}, {"id": "C6.6.18", "lines": ["He called Iran’s sepahbods, chiefs of fame,", "And seasoned lords; the Mobadan too came."]}, {"id": "C6.6.19", "lines": ["He spread the Zand-Avesta out in sight,", "And called the priests who served the holy rite."]}, {"id": "C6.6.20", "lines": ["He called Zardosht, his prophet, to draw near,", "His Mobad, and his chosen chief, Zarir."]}, {"id": "C6.6.21", "lines": ["Zarir, his brother, held the chief command", "Of all the mighty warriors of the land."]}, {"id": "C6.6.22", "lines": ["Then he was Pahlevan above his peers;", "Esfandiyar was still a child in years."]}, {"id": "C6.6.23", "lines": ["He gave the troops their refuge and their stay,", "And guarded like a king the whole array."]}, {"id": "C6.6.24", "lines": ["He kept the world from evil, held it clear;", "In battle he was first to couch his spear."]}, {"id": "C6.6.25", "lines": ["Goshtasb addressed Jamasp and brave Zarir,", "And his own son, assembled now to hear:"]}, {"id": "C6.6.26", "lines": ["“Arjasp, who rules the Turks of Chin, has sent", "This letter; hear the words of his intent.”"]}, {"id": "C6.6.27", "lines": ["He told them what the Turkish king had said,", "Repeating every threat that he had read."]}, {"id": "C6.6.28", "lines": ["“What are your views?” he said. “How will this end?", "What answer should a king and council send?"]}, {"id": "C6.6.29", "lines": ["How ill-advised is friendship with a man", "Whose scanty wisdom cannot judge or plan."]}, {"id": "C6.6.30", "lines": ["I spring from pure-born Iraj’s royal seed;", "He comes from Tur, of sorcery’s dark breed."]}, {"id": "C6.6.31", "lines": ["How could we two have lived in lasting peace?", "Yet I had thought our ancient strife might cease."]}, {"id": "C6.6.32", "lines": ["Let him whose judgment offers wisdom here", "Speak out before us all and make it clear.”"]}, {"id": "C6.7.1", "lines": ["When sovereign Goshtasb had spoken so,", "Zarir and young Esfandiyar, aglow"]}, {"id": "C6.7.2", "lines": ["With wrath, both drew their swords and spoke aloud:", "“If any man among the world’s great crowd"]}, {"id": "C6.7.3", "lines": ["Denies Zardosht the prophet’s rightful due,", "And will not heed his teaching, just and true,"]}, {"id": "C6.7.4", "lines": ["Nor comes before the glorious Shah at court,", "Nor girds himself to be the king’s support,"]}, {"id": "C6.7.5", "lines": ["If he rejects the good religion’s way,", "And will not serve its law by night or day,"]}, {"id": "C6.7.6", "lines": ["Our swords shall take his life; his severed head", "Shall crown a lofty stake when he lies dead.”"]}, {"id": "C6.7.7", "lines": ["Then brave Zarir, Iran’s renowned spear,", "Fierce as a rending lion, without fear,"]}, {"id": "C6.7.8", "lines": ["Said to the king, “Illustrious Shah, command;", "Give me your leave to take this task in hand:"]}, {"id": "C6.7.9", "lines": ["Let me reply to Arjasp’s words of spite.”", "Goshtasb heard and judged his counsel right."]}, {"id": "C6.7.10", "lines": ["He said, “Arise; reply, and let it stand", "A warning to the chiefs of Khallokh’s land.”"]}, {"id": "C6.7.11", "lines": ["Zarir, Esfandiyar, and at their side", "Jamasp, the king’s wise minister and guide,"]}, {"id": "C6.7.12", "lines": ["Went out together, all three stern of face,", "With hearts enraged against that king’s disgrace."]}, {"id": "C6.7.13", "lines": ["They wrote to Arjasp, answering word for word,", "In terms befitting what from him they heard."]}, {"id": "C6.7.14", "lines": ["Zarir, the chief, then took the written sheet,", "Still open to the Shah upon his seat."]}, {"id": "C6.7.15", "lines": ["He read it out before the royal throne;", "The Shah was awed by all the wisdom shown"]}, {"id": "C6.7.16", "lines": ["By wise Zarir, sepahbod quick to dare,", "Jamasp, and brave Esfandiyar, his heir."]}, {"id": "C6.7.17", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, wrote his royal name,", "And called the envoys who from Arjasp came."]}, {"id": "C6.7.18", "lines": ["He said, “Take this reply from my own hand;", "No more shall you set foot within my land."]}, {"id": "C6.7.19", "lines": ["Were safe-conduct for envoys not decreed,", "And written in the Zand-Avesta’s creed,"]}, {"id": "C6.7.20", "lines": ["I would have roused you from this sleep outright,", "And hung you living at the gibbet’s height,"]}, {"id": "C6.7.21", "lines": ["So Arjasp, that vile man, would learn to bring", "No insolent defiance to a king.”"]}, {"id": "C6.7.22", "lines": ["He threw the letter: “Take it in your care,", "And bear it to the Turkish warlock’s lair."]}, {"id": "C6.7.23", "lines": ["Say this: ‘Your day of ruin now draws near;", "Your time for blood and dust is almost here."]}, {"id": "C6.7.24", "lines": ["May your neck feel the blade, your flesh be torn,", "And may your bones lie scattered and forlorn."]}, {"id": "C6.7.25", "lines": ["In Dey, if God so wills, I shall be dressed", "For war, with iron jowshan on my breast."]}, {"id": "C6.7.26", "lines": ["Against Turan I shall lead my command,", "And bring destruction on the Gorgsar land.’”"]}, {"id": "C6.8.1", "lines": ["When earth’s great monarch had concluded speech,", "He called his sepahbod within his reach."]}, {"id": "C6.8.2", "lines": ["He blessed him, then he gave him this command:", "“Escort these envoys past our borderland.”"]}, {"id": "C6.8.3", "lines": ["The envoys left Goshtasb’s exalted place,", "With dust on head and shame upon each face."]}, {"id": "C6.8.4", "lines": ["The Shah had driven both away in shame;", "They left dishonored, stripped of rank and name."]}, {"id": "C6.8.5", "lines": ["Yet when they reached Khallokh, disgrace held fast;", "Their glory still lay ruined by the past."]}, {"id": "C6.8.6", "lines": ["When from afar they saw the palace rise,", "Its sable banner dark against the skies,"]}, {"id": "C6.8.7", "lines": ["They left their prancing steeds in grief and fear;", "Their hearts were crushed, their eyes no longer clear."]}, {"id": "C6.8.8", "lines": ["Afoot they came before the royal seat,", "In blackened robes, pale-faced in their defeat."]}, {"id": "C6.8.9", "lines": ["They gave the Shah’s own letter to the king,", "Zarir’s reply, a sharp and bitter thing."]}, {"id": "C6.8.10", "lines": ["Arjasp called in his scribes to hear the whole", "Of what was written in the royal scroll."]}, {"id": "C6.8.11", "lines": ["He told the scribe, “Now read it, word for word,", "That all the letter’s meaning may be heard.”"]}, {"id": "C6.8.12", "lines": ["A scribe unfolded it before that place,", "And read it to the king of Turkish race."]}, {"id": "C6.8.13", "lines": ["The letter named the Shah who held command,", "The foremost mounted warrior in the land:"]}, {"id": "C6.8.14", "lines": ["“From Goshtasb, son of Lohrasp, fit to reign,", "Who guards the world and all its wide domain;"]}, {"id": "C6.8.15", "lines": ["To whom God sent His prophet as a guide,", "Before whom stand the nobles, side by side,"]}, {"id": "C6.8.16", "lines": ["To you, Arjasp, vile Turk, these words are told,", "Who bear the likeness of a wolf grown old,"]}, {"id": "C6.8.17", "lines": ["Who turn away from Faith’s clear guiding light,", "With crooked heart and spirit dark as night:"]}, {"id": "C6.8.18", "lines": ["Your letter reached the Shah, so full of spite,", "And I have weighed each insult that you write."]}, {"id": "C6.8.19", "lines": ["I heard those words you chose to send my way;", "They were not words becoming you to say."]}, {"id": "C6.8.20", "lines": ["Unfit for written page or public view,", "For men to read aloud or listen to."]}, {"id": "C6.8.21", "lines": ["You say, ‘In months my army takes the field,", "And then your kingdom to my troops must yield.’"]}, {"id": "C6.8.22", "lines": ["We need no months, nor time to linger here;", "We bring our lions forth with sword and spear."]}, {"id": "C6.8.23", "lines": ["Do not increase your toil or burden more;", "We have unlocked the royal treasure-store."]}, {"id": "C6.8.24", "lines": ["I shall lead thousands, spearmen bold and true,", "All lion-hearted warriors, against you."]}, {"id": "C6.8.25", "lines": ["From Iraj and the Pahlevans they came,", "Not Afrasiab’s stock or Yabghu’s name."]}, {"id": "C6.8.26", "lines": ["All moon-faced men, like kings in outward show,", "All cypress-tall, whose truthful words you know."]}, {"id": "C6.8.27", "lines": ["All worthy of the empire and the throne,", "Its treasure, crown, and army as their own."]}, {"id": "C6.8.28", "lines": ["All spearmen, swordsmen, skilled in war’s array,", "Who form their troops and sweep the foe away."]}, {"id": "C6.8.29", "lines": ["All converts to the Faith and wisdom’s claim,", "All fit for armlet, earring, rank, and fame."]}, {"id": "C6.8.30", "lines": ["Lance-armed, on steeds in bargostvans they ride,", "My name engraved upon each signet’s side."]}, {"id": "C6.8.31", "lines": ["When tabiras on elephants resound,", "Their horses’ hooves will level hill and ground."]}, {"id": "C6.8.32", "lines": ["When they don jowshans to confront the foe,", "Above high heaven clouds of dust will flow."]}, {"id": "C6.8.33", "lines": ["Firm in the saddle, mountain-like they sit;", "Their swords cleave mountains, splitting bit by bit."]}, {"id": "C6.8.34", "lines": ["Among them ride two chosen chiefs, famed afar:", "Zarir the leader, and Esfandiyar."]}, {"id": "C6.8.35", "lines": ["When they put on their iron coats, they rise", "So tall their feet seem planted in the skies."]}, {"id": "C6.8.36", "lines": ["When on their shoulders crushing gorzes blaze,", "Their stature shines with farr beneath your gaze."]}, {"id": "C6.8.37", "lines": ["When they stand forth before the whole array,", "Look well upon them on that battle-day."]}, {"id": "C6.8.38", "lines": ["They, with their crowns and thrones, are like the sun;", "Their faces shine with Fortune newly won."]}, {"id": "C6.8.39", "lines": ["The chosen chiefs who lead these troops are wise,", "And worthy in the Mobadan’s own eyes."]}, {"id": "C6.8.40", "lines": ["Pour no musk in Jihun from shore to shore;", "For I have opened every treasure-store."]}, {"id": "C6.8.41", "lines": ["And if it pleases God when armies meet,", "I shall grind down your head beneath my feet.”"]}, {"id": "C6.8.42", "lines": ["Arjasp descended from his throne amazed,", "And at those written words in fury gazed."]}, {"id": "C6.8.43", "lines": ["He told his sepahbod, “At tomorrow’s dawn,", "Let troops from every province here be drawn.”"]}, {"id": "C6.8.44", "lines": ["The chosen chiefs of Chin rode out that day,", "Through all Turan to muster their array."]}, {"id": "C6.8.45", "lines": ["They summoned every troop throughout the land,", "And called its frontier lords to take command."]}, {"id": "C6.8.46", "lines": ["The king had brothers, Ahrimans in soul:", "Kuhram, Andariman, who took control"]}, {"id": "C6.8.47", "lines": ["Of tabiras and elephants; flags shone", "In red and yellow, violet richly sewn."]}, {"id": "C6.8.48", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand horsemen, chosen all,", "Were placed beneath the brothers at his call."]}, {"id": "C6.8.49", "lines": ["He paid the troops; the brazen karnay blared,", "The baggage for their march was then prepared."]}, {"id": "C6.8.50", "lines": ["He called Kuhram, his brother, to his side,", "And gave him one whole army wing to guide."]}, {"id": "C6.8.51", "lines": ["Andariman took charge of the other wing;", "The center held Arjasp, their lord and king."]}, {"id": "C6.8.52", "lines": ["There was an aged Turk, Gorgsar by name,", "Had seen long years before this summons came."]}, {"id": "C6.8.53", "lines": ["His only work was evil; in his hand", "Arjasp now placed the army’s chief command."]}, {"id": "C6.8.54", "lines": ["To Bidarfesh, old Gorgsar’s brother bold,", "He gave the wolf-marked banner, his to hold."]}, {"id": "C6.8.55", "lines": ["One warrior bore the name Khashash; his might", "Would make a lion shrink from open fight."]}, {"id": "C6.8.56", "lines": ["He gave him scouts and vanguard to command,", "And placed a standard in the warrior’s hand."]}, {"id": "C6.8.57", "lines": ["To Hushdiv, lord among the Turks, there went", "This message which the king himself had sent:"]}, {"id": "C6.8.58", "lines": ["“Guard well the rear; if any man should stray", "And turn his back to flee the coming fray,"]}, {"id": "C6.8.59", "lines": ["Wherever you may find him, strike him dead;", "Keep watch, and do exactly as I said.”"]}, {"id": "C6.8.60", "lines": ["His heart was full of blood; his eyes were wet.", "He marched in wrath, on bitter vengeance set."]}, {"id": "C6.8.61", "lines": ["He plundered, burned the palaces with flame,", "And uprooted trees wherever he came."]}, {"id": "C6.8.62", "lines": ["He crossed Iran’s frontier with all his force,", "All faithless, hatred driving on their course."]}, {"id": "C6.9.1", "lines": ["When to the Shah Goshtasb the tidings passed", "That Turks and men of Chin were marching fast,"]}, {"id": "C6.9.2", "lines": ["And that their ruler marched arrayed for war,", "With brave Khashash dispatched to march before,"]}, {"id": "C6.9.3", "lines": ["He heard the foe advanced with all his band", "To devastate Goshtasb’s lovely land."]}, {"id": "C6.9.4", "lines": ["He told his sepahbod, “At dawn’s first light,", "Bring troops and elephants arrayed for fight.”"]}, {"id": "C6.9.5", "lines": ["He wrote to every boundary chief that day:", "“The Khan has cast the noble path away."]}, {"id": "C6.9.6", "lines": ["Bring all your troops; our foe has crossed the line", "That marks the frontier of this realm of mine.”"]}, {"id": "C6.9.7", "lines": ["When that command had reached the lords that hour,", "They heard the Khan sought universal power."]}, {"id": "C6.9.8", "lines": ["Troops thronged the royal gates, a countless mass,", "More than the earth bore blades of growing grass."]}, {"id": "C6.9.9", "lines": ["The world’s great warriors gathered, band by band,", "And girded for their king at his command."]}, {"id": "C6.9.10", "lines": ["At his command each frontier chieftain came,", "And hastened to the Shah with heart aflame."]}, {"id": "C6.9.11", "lines": ["Soon thousand after thousand stood around", "The Kayanian, gracious and renowned."]}, {"id": "C6.9.12", "lines": ["He viewed the camp and measured all the force,", "Then chose the fittest men for war’s harsh course."]}, {"id": "C6.9.13", "lines": ["The glorious Shah rejoiced to see that sight,", "His heart astounded by their gathered might."]}, {"id": "C6.9.14", "lines": ["Next day he came with priests and nobles all,", "With chiefs and captains gathered at his call."]}, {"id": "C6.9.15", "lines": ["He opened Jamshid’s treasure stores that day,", "And gave the troops their wages: two years’ pay."]}, {"id": "C6.9.16", "lines": ["He gave them jowshan and supplies to bear;", "Tabiras, karnays thundered through the air."]}, {"id": "C6.9.17", "lines": ["They loaded baggage; at the army’s head", "The royal, conquering banner was outspread."]}, {"id": "C6.9.18", "lines": ["He led the troops to fight Arjasp the bold,", "An army vaster than the mind could hold."]}, {"id": "C6.9.19", "lines": ["No man could see the moon or light of day;", "The dust of steeds and troops hid every ray."]}, {"id": "C6.9.20", "lines": ["So loud the neighs and cries rose from the throng,", "No ear could hear tabiras beat along."]}, {"id": "C6.9.21", "lines": ["Flags thronged like reeds in spring; spears rose and stood", "Above the clouds, like trees in mountain wood."]}, {"id": "C6.9.22", "lines": ["Thus by Goshtasb’s order went the band,", "The army marching on from land to land."]}, {"id": "C6.10.1", "lines": ["From famous Balkh they reached the Jihun’s bank; ", "The captain halted every marching rank."]}, {"id": "C6.10.2", "lines": ["The Shah rode out beyond the gathered line, ", "Dismounted where the Jihun’s waters shine."]}, {"id": "C6.10.3", "lines": ["He sat upon the throne and called his guide, ", "Jamasp, the sage who counseled at his side."]}, {"id": "C6.10.4", "lines": ["Chief Mobad and the first among the great, ", "The luster of the men of rank and state,"]}, {"id": "C6.10.5", "lines": ["So pure his body, and his soul so clear, ", "That hidden things would openly appear."]}, {"id": "C6.10.6", "lines": ["He read the stars with mighty learned art; ", "No man had equal knowledge in his heart."]}, {"id": "C6.10.7", "lines": ["The Shah inquired of him: “God gave to you", "Good Faith and counsel, honest, wise, and true."]}, {"id": "C6.10.8", "lines": ["There is no man like you among mankind; ", "God’s gift of knowledge dwells within your mind."]}, {"id": "C6.10.9", "lines": ["Now read the stars and all their aspects show, ", "And tell me how this war will come and go."]}, {"id": "C6.10.10", "lines": ["How will the battle pass from first to last? ", "Which side shall meet disaster, falling fast?”"]}, {"id": "C6.10.11", "lines": ["The old Jamasp grew sorrowful and pale; ", "Then spoke before the Shah his bitter tale:"]}, {"id": "C6.10.12", "lines": ["“I wish the Just had never made me wise, ", "Nor taught me how to read the turning skies."]}, {"id": "C6.10.13", "lines": ["Then would the Shah not ask of me this thing, ", "Nor would I bear such truth before the king."]}, {"id": "C6.10.14", "lines": ["Yet I must speak, for if I answer not, ", "The king of kings may make my death my lot."]}, {"id": "C6.10.15", "lines": ["But pledge that neither you nor those you send", "Will harm me for the fate I must portend.”"]}, {"id": "C6.10.16", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “By God, the Faith confessed, ", "Its bringer, with a spotless wisdom blessed,"]}, {"id": "C6.10.17", "lines": ["And by the life of brave Zarir in fight, ", "And great Esfandiyar, my shining light,"]}, {"id": "C6.10.18", "lines": ["I swear I will not bring you any harm, ", "Nor set another hand against your arm."]}, {"id": "C6.10.19", "lines": ["You know the remedy; I seek the way. ", "Tell all you know of this affair, I pray.”"]}, {"id": "C6.10.20", "lines": ["The sage replied, “Illustrious Shah, may fate", "Preserve your crown in everlasting state."]}, {"id": "C6.10.21", "lines": ["Restrain your wrath; let no resentment grow. ", "How blessed are those who never see this woe!"]}, {"id": "C6.10.22", "lines": ["Know this, Kayanian warrior of renown: ", "When battle brings the heroes rushing down,"]}, {"id": "C6.10.23", "lines": ["When battle cries arise so fierce and vast, ", "The mountains seem uprooted by the blast,"]}, {"id": "C6.10.24", "lines": ["The mighty men of valor will advance, ", "And dust will darken every warrior’s glance."]}, {"id": "C6.10.25", "lines": ["The world will turn to darkness in their eyes; ", "Fire will fill earth and smoke will choke the skies."]}, {"id": "C6.10.26", "lines": ["The gorzes crash on jowshans’ iron scale", "Like smiths’ great hammers in a pounding hail."]}, {"id": "C6.10.27", "lines": ["The twang of bowstrings will oppress the brain, ", "And chargers’ neighs will thunder through the plain."]}, {"id": "C6.10.28", "lines": ["The heavens’ vault will shatter overhead; ", "Below, their blood in running streams will spread."]}, {"id": "C6.10.29", "lines": ["Then sons will lose their fathers in the fight, ", "And fathers lose their sons before the night."]}, {"id": "C6.10.30", "lines": ["First Ardeshir, Kayanian kingly son, ", "The famed and gallant, toward the foe will run."]}, {"id": "C6.10.31", "lines": ["He will urge forth his charger through the ranks, ", "And fling opposing warriors on both flanks."]}, {"id": "C6.10.32", "lines": ["More Turkish horsemen will be felled that day", "Than counted stars that crowd the Milky Way."]}, {"id": "C6.10.33", "lines": ["Yet in the end he too must fall in war; ", "His noble name will live on earth no more."]}, {"id": "C6.10.34", "lines": ["Then great Shidasp, the monarch’s son, will go", "Upon his black horse to avenge that blow."]}, {"id": "C6.10.35", "lines": ["He will rage, draw his sword, and charge the plain; ", "Both horse and rider of the foe lie slain."]}, {"id": "C6.10.36", "lines": ["But in the end his Fortune will decline; ", "His crown will fall and lose its royal shine."]}, {"id": "C6.10.37", "lines": ["Then comes my son, my girdle at his waist, ", "To battle for the prince whom death embraced."]}, {"id": "C6.10.38", "lines": ["For brave Shidasp, Girami takes his stand, ", "And rides like Rostam through the fighting band."]}, {"id": "C6.10.39", "lines": ["How many men of Chin that youth will slay, ", "A lion-heart who hews through their array!"]}, {"id": "C6.10.40", "lines": ["Through dust and battle he will persevere; ", "Yet I must tell the king what now draws near."]}, {"id": "C6.10.41", "lines": ["When Kaveh’s glorious banner falls in fight, ", "Dropped by Iran’s own troops amid their plight,"]}, {"id": "C6.10.42", "lines": ["Girami sees the flag from where he rides, ", "All dust and blood upon its fallen sides."]}, {"id": "C6.10.43", "lines": ["He leaps to earth and lifts it from the ground, ", "The violet banner rising, heavenward bound."]}, {"id": "C6.10.44", "lines": ["He holds the violet banner as he stands, ", "His sword and standard gripped in separate hands."]}, {"id": "C6.10.45", "lines": ["While thus beset, he strikes blow after blow, ", "And lays those Ahrimans of battle low."]}, {"id": "C6.10.46", "lines": ["Then suddenly a foe will strike in fight, ", "And sever one hand with a sword outright."]}, {"id": "C6.10.47", "lines": ["Girami then will seize the violet flag", "Between his teeth and never let it sag."]}, {"id": "C6.10.48", "lines": ["At last an arrow strikes his body’s core; ", "That warrior will be seen alive no more."]}, {"id": "C6.10.49", "lines": ["Then Nivzar, chosen horseman, will ride out, ", "The sovereign’s son, of worth beyond all doubt."]}, {"id": "C6.10.50", "lines": ["He will lay sixty of the foemen low, ", "And Pahlevan-like mastery will show."]}, {"id": "C6.10.51", "lines": ["Yet in the end, the Turkish arrows sped", "Will lay his mighty body cold and dead."]}, {"id": "C6.10.52", "lines": ["Next will advance a lion without peer, ", "The mighty warrior, valiant Prince Zarir."]}, {"id": "C6.10.53", "lines": ["He will go forth with kamand in his hand, ", "Upon his pale-gold charger through the land,"]}, {"id": "C6.10.54", "lines": ["In golden jowshan, shining clear and bright, ", "Resplendent as the moon against the night."]}, {"id": "C6.10.55", "lines": ["The troops will stand astonished at his face; ", "He will take captives through his strength and grace."]}, {"id": "C6.10.56", "lines": ["A thousand Turks out of the hostile bands", "He will bind fast and send into your hands."]}, {"id": "C6.10.57", "lines": ["Wherever that prince turns his royal eye, ", "The ground will run with blood beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C6.10.58", "lines": ["None dares confront him; all before him yield, ", "And turn aside wherever he takes the field."]}, {"id": "C6.10.59", "lines": ["None can withstand that prince’s fierce attack; ", "The monarch of the tents is beaten back."]}, {"id": "C6.10.60", "lines": ["Zarir sees Ardeshir, his body cold, ", "His cheeks grown dark, his flesh like saffron gold."]}, {"id": "C6.10.61", "lines": ["He will lament him, face with anguish grim, ", "And spur the Arab charger under him."]}, {"id": "C6.10.62", "lines": ["In bitter wrath he will confront the foe; ", "His heart will never think of flight or woe."]}, {"id": "C6.10.63", "lines": ["When he sees Arjasp in the hostile crowd, ", "His praise of Shah Goshtasb rings clear and loud."]}, {"id": "C6.10.64", "lines": ["He will overthrow the enemy’s array, ", "And heed no living man within that fray."]}, {"id": "C6.10.65", "lines": ["He chants the Zand-Avesta as he goes, ", "And trusts in God alone against his foes."]}, {"id": "C6.10.66", "lines": ["But in the end his Fortune will grow dark; ", "The chosen cypress falls beneath death’s mark."]}, {"id": "C6.10.67", "lines": ["Then Bidarfesh approaches, drawing near", "The violet banner lifted on a spear."]}, {"id": "C6.10.68", "lines": ["Not daring to confront that champion’s face, ", "He lies in ambush at a hidden place."]}, {"id": "C6.10.69", "lines": ["He waits, a maddened elephant, to slay, ", "His poisoned javelin poised beside the way."]}, {"id": "C6.10.70", "lines": ["As Prince Zarir returns from that fierce fight, ", "His broken weapons show the battle’s might."]}, {"id": "C6.10.71", "lines": ["The craven casts his javelin from behind, ", "A death no warrior in the field could find."]}, {"id": "C6.10.72", "lines": ["Thus will the chief of nobles meet his end, ", "Struck by the shaft that villain’s hands will send."]}, {"id": "C6.10.73", "lines": ["His charger and his saddle, seized as prey, ", "Bidarfesh to the Turks will bear away."]}, {"id": "C6.10.74", "lines": ["Who will rise first to avenge Zarir’s proud name? ", "Young Nastur will rise, with his heart aflame!"]}, {"id": "C6.10.75", "lines": ["Noble Nastur, the son of brave Zarir, ", "Will urge his charger forward without fear."]}, {"id": "C6.10.76", "lines": ["So many foes beneath his onslaught die; ", "No stranger victory has met the eye."]}, {"id": "C6.10.77", "lines": ["At last he will return in triumph bright, ", "His enemies subdued beneath his might."]}, {"id": "C6.10.78", "lines": ["Like wolves and lions they will join the foe, ", "And earth will blush where streams of red blood flow."]}, {"id": "C6.10.79", "lines": ["Their faces will grow wan; the bravest quake; ", "The army’s dust will make the daylight shake."]}, {"id": "C6.10.80", "lines": ["The sun and moon will vanish from the height, ", "While spear and sword and arrow flash with light."]}, {"id": "C6.10.81", "lines": ["Their glitter through the dust and clouds will stream, ", "Like stars that pierce the clouds, their points will gleam."]}, {"id": "C6.10.82", "lines": ["Blows heap the wounded with the dead; piled high, ", "Fathers on sons, and sons on fathers lie."]}, {"id": "C6.10.83", "lines": ["Such cries rise from the wounded in their pain", "That men still free are bound as with a chain."]}, {"id": "C6.10.84", "lines": ["From either army, multitudes lie dead; ", "Their blood fills all the field on which they bled."]}, {"id": "C6.10.85", "lines": ["Then Bidarfesh, that miscreant in war, ", "Will rush like ravening wolf to slaughter more."]}, {"id": "C6.10.86", "lines": ["Holding his poisoned blade in furious hand, ", "He drives his charger through the shattered band."]}, {"id": "C6.10.87", "lines": ["By him a multitude of men will fall, ", "The chosen of the Shah, the best of all."]}, {"id": "C6.10.88", "lines": ["Then comes Esfandiyar to meet the foe, ", "His troops behind, with God to aid each blow."]}, {"id": "C6.10.89", "lines": ["In blood-stained clothes, with vengeance in his breath, ", "He spurs at Bidarfesh to deal him death."]}, {"id": "C6.10.90", "lines": ["His Indian sword descends; one stroke will throw", "Half of that rider to the ground below."]}, {"id": "C6.10.91", "lines": ["Then with his iron gorz he strikes the foe, ", "And lets his farr and royal splendor show."]}, {"id": "C6.10.92", "lines": ["He will break hostile ranks with one fierce charge; ", "Will he then let them flee and roam at large?"]}, {"id": "C6.10.93", "lines": ["No, with a spearpoint he will gather them, ", "And scatter them abroad, both root and stem."]}, {"id": "C6.10.94", "lines": ["At last the king of Chin will flee the fight", "Before Esfandiyar’s majestic might."]}, {"id": "C6.10.95", "lines": ["That glorious Kayanian breaks his power; ", "Broken, Arjasp turns toward Turan that hour."]}, {"id": "C6.10.96", "lines": ["Across the desert, weeping, he will ride, ", "With but a few companions at his side."]}, {"id": "C6.10.97", "lines": ["The Shah will triumph when the foe takes flight; ", "Know this, O chosen sovereign crowned in light."]}, {"id": "C6.10.98", "lines": ["What I have said will not be otherwise; ", "No more, no less than what the heavens devise."]}, {"id": "C6.10.99", "lines": ["Do not regard me afterward with blame; ", "Your own command compelled me to proclaim."]}, {"id": "C6.10.100", "lines": ["I spoke these words, great Shah, at your request; ", "I gave the truth at your express behest."]}, {"id": "C6.10.101", "lines": ["That deep, dark sea of fate, of which you asked—", "I hid no truth the heavens had unmasked."]}, {"id": "C6.10.102", "lines": ["Why else should I have told the Shah these things, ", "These secret destinies of chiefs and kings?”"]}, {"id": "C6.10.103", "lines": ["When Shah Goshtasb, the world’s lord, saw revealed", "The secrets that the veil of fate concealed,"]}, {"id": "C6.10.104", "lines": ["His gold gorz fell; he sank upon his throne; ", "His splendor and his farr seemed overthrown."]}, {"id": "C6.10.105", "lines": ["He fell upon his face and swooned away; ", "No word he uttered in that bitter day."]}, {"id": "C6.10.106", "lines": ["When sense returned, he left the throne and wept, ", "And bitter grief within his bosom kept."]}, {"id": "C6.10.107", "lines": ["“What use are throne and kingship in my grief, ", "When darkness fills my days without relief?"]}, {"id": "C6.10.108", "lines": ["With all my moons and horsemen, princes slain, ", "What need have I of crown or royal reign?"]}, {"id": "C6.10.109", "lines": ["What need of Fortune, rule, or royal might, ", "When those I love are hidden from my sight?"]}, {"id": "C6.10.110", "lines": ["My dearest, chosen warriors will depart, ", "And tear out from my flesh this wounded heart.”"]}, {"id": "C6.10.111", "lines": ["He said, “My brother shall not go to war, ", "Nor burn my aged mother to the core."]}, {"id": "C6.10.112", "lines": ["I will forbid Zarir to join the fray; ", "Gurazm shall lead the troops on battle day."]}, {"id": "C6.10.113", "lines": ["My Kayanian sons shall stay in sight; ", "I will not let them arm and join the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.10.114", "lines": ["How could the points of arrows reach so high, ", "To pierce these mountains towering to the sky?”"]}, {"id": "C6.10.115", "lines": ["Jamasp replied, “If they should fail to stand", "With Kayanian crowns before your fighting band,"]}, {"id": "C6.10.116", "lines": ["Who dares to meet the Turks and take their place, ", "And bring back pure religion’s farr and grace?"]}, {"id": "C6.10.117", "lines": ["Rise from the dust and sit upon your throne; ", "Preserve the royal farr that is your own."]}, {"id": "C6.10.118", "lines": ["God’s will is fixed; no cunning plan can bend", "His purpose; no injustice does He send."]}, {"id": "C6.10.119", "lines": ["Grief brings no gain; the course of things must run. ", "What is to be is now as good as done."]}, {"id": "C6.10.120", "lines": ["Let no more anguish fill your heart and mind; ", "Accept the Maker’s justice, and be resigned.”"]}, {"id": "C6.10.121", "lines": ["The Shah heard all his counsel; light returned, ", "As though the sun within his visage burned."]}, {"id": "C6.10.122", "lines": ["He sat upon the throne, resolved to fight", "The king of Chigil and his gathered might."]}, {"id": "C6.10.123", "lines": ["No sleep would come; the coming battle pressed", "Upon his thoughts and robbed his heart of rest."]}, {"id": "C6.11.1", "lines": ["As wise Jamasp concluded, night gave way;", "The stars grew dim before the coming day."]}, {"id": "C6.11.2", "lines": ["He led his chosen army to the site", "Where they would camp and muster for the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.11.3", "lines": ["At dawn, when breezes from the gardens swept,", "And through the palace rose-sweet fragrance crept,"]}, {"id": "C6.11.4", "lines": ["By old Iranian custom, scouts were set", "To watch the field, alert to every threat."]}, {"id": "C6.11.5", "lines": ["A rider then approached and said, “Great king,", "The foe is near; grave news to you I bring."]}, {"id": "C6.11.6", "lines": ["From Turks and Chin there comes a force so great", "No king has seen the like approach his gate."]}, {"id": "C6.11.7", "lines": ["They have encamped nearby with tents displayed", "On hill and field and valley’s open glade."]}, {"id": "C6.11.8", "lines": ["Their chief sent scouts to watch the country round;", "Our riders met them on the open ground.”"]}, {"id": "C6.11.9", "lines": ["Goshtasb, high-born and valiant, called Zarir,", "His glorious sepahbod and brother dear."]}, {"id": "C6.11.10", "lines": ["He gave the standard: “Go, and do not wait;", "Array the elephants in ordered state."]}, {"id": "C6.11.11", "lines": ["Arm all the troops.” The sepahbod went ahead,", "And ranged the line where battle’s dust would spread."]}, {"id": "C6.11.12", "lines": ["To Esfandiyar Goshtasb gave one flank,", "With fifty thousand horsemen, rank on rank."]}, {"id": "C6.11.13", "lines": ["His chest was broad, an elephant’s in size;", "A lion’s courage kindled in his eyes."]}, {"id": "C6.11.14", "lines": ["Upon the other wing he set a band", "Of chosen warriors ready at command."]}, {"id": "C6.11.15", "lines": ["He gave it to his cherished son to lead,", "A warrior equal to the Shah in deed."]}, {"id": "C6.11.16", "lines": ["He gave Zarir, the chief his foemen dread,", "Full fifty thousand valiant horse to head."]}, {"id": "C6.11.17", "lines": ["The rear he gave to Nastur, strong and bold,", "Zarir’s bright son, of pure and noble mold."]}, {"id": "C6.11.18", "lines": ["The army thus arrayed, he climbed the height,", "Worn out with grief and labor for the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.11.19", "lines": ["He sat upon his splendid, shining throne,", "He viewed his troops; their marshaled splendor shone."]}, {"id": "C6.11.20", "lines": ["Then King Arjasp, who ruled the Chin array,", "Likewise disposed his forces for the day."]}, {"id": "C6.11.21", "lines": ["A hundred thousand Khallokh horsemen, tried", "In many wars, stood on Bidarfesh’s side."]}, {"id": "C6.11.22", "lines": ["As a chief, he upheld the golden sign,", "Tabiras, standard of the Turkish line."]}, {"id": "C6.11.23", "lines": ["One wing he led alone, a chief so fierce", "No lion would have dared its ranks to pierce."]}, {"id": "C6.11.24", "lines": ["The other wing he placed within the hand", "Of old Gorgsar and his selected band."]}, {"id": "C6.11.25", "lines": ["A hundred thousand horsemen formed that wing,", "All tested men beneath the Turkish king."]}, {"id": "C6.11.26", "lines": ["Within the center of the battle-line", "He set a chosen force in stern design."]}, {"id": "C6.11.27", "lines": ["He gave it to Namkhast, grim mage well known,", "The son of Hazaran, hard as stone."]}, {"id": "C6.11.28", "lines": ["Another hundred thousand riders stood,", "All famed for prowess, battle-tried and good."]}, {"id": "C6.11.29", "lines": ["There at the rear Arjasp surveyed his might,", "And watched his army to the left and right."]}, {"id": "C6.11.30", "lines": ["Kuhram stood there, a horseman brave and bold,", "Whose head had weathered years of heat and cold."]}, {"id": "C6.11.31", "lines": ["He set Kuhram to oversee the field,", "With full command, the army’s strength to wield."]}, {"id": "C6.12.1", "lines": ["When night had passed and day began to shine,", "The world-bright sun rose over battle’s line."]}, {"id": "C6.12.2", "lines": ["The troops on either side their saddles gained,", "While Shah Goshtasb upon the height remained."]}, {"id": "C6.12.3", "lines": ["When from the mountain he beheld the field,", "And warriors armed with spear and sword and shield,"]}, {"id": "C6.12.4", "lines": ["He called for black Behzad, that mighty horse,", "Like Mount Bistoon in stature and in force."]}, {"id": "C6.12.5", "lines": ["They clad the horse in armor; then he rode;", "The lines below in ordered battle flowed."]}, {"id": "C6.12.6", "lines": ["The armies faced each other on the ground;", "From elephants rang brazen karnays’ sound."]}, {"id": "C6.12.7", "lines": ["When ranks were set and champions challenged loud,", "A storm of arrows darkened every cloud."]}, {"id": "C6.12.8", "lines": ["They fell like springtime hail across the fight,", "Until the sun’s own course was lost to sight."]}, {"id": "C6.12.9", "lines": ["Few could believe that storm of arrow-rain,", "Unless they stood themselves upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C6.12.10", "lines": ["The sun was veiled; the arrowheads flashed bright,", "Like ocean waters glittering in the light."]}, {"id": "C6.12.11", "lines": ["The sky seemed overcast from first to last,", "As diamond rain fell sparkling and fast."]}, {"id": "C6.12.12", "lines": ["The gorz-men and the spearmen clashed and surged;", "A night of dust above the plain emerged."]}, {"id": "C6.12.13", "lines": ["The earth was drowned in gore from side to side,", "And darkness spread across that crimson tide."]}, {"id": "C6.12.14", "lines": ["First came Ardeshir, the great Shah’s son,", "A horseman fair, with battle just begun."]}, {"id": "C6.12.15", "lines": ["Like some mad elephant he crossed the field;", "He seemed like Tus beneath his lifted shield."]}, {"id": "C6.12.16", "lines": ["He wheeled before the battle-line below;", "He did not know what Fate would soon bestow."]}, {"id": "C6.12.17", "lines": ["An arrow pierced his waist through jowshan’s scale,", "And from his bay he tumbled, pierced and pale."]}, {"id": "C6.12.18", "lines": ["Dust mixed with blood to mar his former grace;", "Woe for the moonlike beauty of his face!"]}, {"id": "C6.12.19", "lines": ["The wise Shah never would behold him more;", "Then Hormizd, brave and fair, rode out to war."]}, {"id": "C6.12.20", "lines": ["His cheeks like tulips glowed a fiery red;", "A poisoned khanjar in his hand, he sped."]}, {"id": "C6.12.21", "lines": ["He roared as lions roar before they bring", "Wild asses down beneath their deadly spring."]}, {"id": "C6.12.22", "lines": ["For that slain prince he made the foemen pay:", "A thousand enemy riders fell that day."]}, {"id": "C6.12.23", "lines": ["But as he turned back from the furious fray,", "The earth lay red with blood along his way."]}, {"id": "C6.12.24", "lines": ["An arrow struck his nape and laid him low;", "The noble prince fell dead beneath the blow."]}, {"id": "C6.12.25", "lines": ["His father would not see his son again;", "Then Prince Shidasp rode forward toward the men."]}, {"id": "C6.12.26", "lines": ["Moon-faced, of royal mien and warrior pride,", "He sat an indigo steed, huge in stride."]}, {"id": "C6.12.27", "lines": ["His horse had all an elephant’s great might,", "And sped like wind as he rode out to fight."]}, {"id": "C6.12.28", "lines": ["He wheeled and brandished high the lance in hand,", "Then checked his charger, shouting his demand:"]}, {"id": "C6.12.29", "lines": ["“Where is Kuhram, that mighty warrior? Where", "Is he whose form both wolf and tiger share?”"]}, {"id": "C6.12.30", "lines": ["A Div replied, “I am!” His challenge rang:", "“I fight the hungry lion, fang to fang!”"]}, {"id": "C6.12.31", "lines": ["Shidasp’s lance unhorsed him; he took his head,", "And cast his golden belt beside the dead."]}, {"id": "C6.12.32", "lines": ["Before the men of Chin, Shidasp wheeled round,", "A mountain in the saddle, iron-bound."]}, {"id": "C6.12.33", "lines": ["No eye had seen his like; his beauty drew", "The evil eye upon him as he flew."]}, {"id": "C6.12.34", "lines": ["A Turk then drew his bow; the arrow sped,", "And struck the prince, who fell among the dead."]}, {"id": "C6.12.35", "lines": ["Alas, that gently nurtured prince died then;", "His father would not see his face again."]}, {"id": "C6.13.1", "lines": ["Then from the army came Jamasp’s brave son,", "A horseman famed for battles he had won."]}, {"id": "C6.13.2", "lines": ["Girami was his name, a warrior flame,", "Like Rostam, son of Zal, in might and fame."]}, {"id": "C6.13.3", "lines": ["He rode a dun, his kamand coiled and tied", "Upon the saddle, hanging at his side."]}, {"id": "C6.13.4", "lines": ["He prayed to God, then challenged Chin aloud,", "“Who comes with lion-heart from this proud crowd?"]}, {"id": "C6.13.5", "lines": ["Who dares confront my life-destroying spear?", "Where is Namkhast, whose name men speak with fear?"]}, {"id": "C6.13.6", "lines": ["Where is that arrogant man of dread,", "The son of Hazaran, by sorcery led?”"]}, {"id": "C6.13.7", "lines": ["Namkhast rode forth upon a horse so vast,", "It seemed a mountain as the charger passed."]}, {"id": "C6.13.8", "lines": ["Those two accomplished horsemen wheeled around", "With gorz and lance where battle shook the ground."]}, {"id": "C6.13.9", "lines": ["With shaft and scimitar they closed in fight,", "But Girami possessed a lion’s might."]}, {"id": "C6.13.10", "lines": ["No valiant horseman then could make a stand", "Against the lethal weapons in his hand."]}, {"id": "C6.13.11", "lines": ["Namkhast, though battle-tested, turned and fled", "Before that sword and all the dread it spread."]}, {"id": "C6.13.12", "lines": ["Then Girami rode forth, resolved to shed", "The blood of those who left the princes dead."]}, {"id": "C6.13.13", "lines": ["He fell upon the center of the foe;", "From mountain slopes the wind began to blow."]}, {"id": "C6.13.14", "lines": ["A mighty roar arose across the field,", "As both great armies closed with sword and shield."]}, {"id": "C6.13.15", "lines": ["In turmoil, while the sable dust-clouds rolled,", "And scimitars struck sparks from iron cold,"]}, {"id": "C6.13.16", "lines": ["The splendid standard of Kaveh fell down,", "Dropped from Iranian hands, with dust for crown."]}, {"id": "C6.13.17", "lines": ["He saw the indigo flag lying low,", "Flung from the elephant’s back amid the foe."]}, {"id": "C6.13.18", "lines": ["He left his saddle, raised it from the ground,", "And cleared the dust while battle raged around."]}, {"id": "C6.13.19", "lines": ["When warriors of Chin beheld him raise", "That famed and cherished flagstaff from the haze,"]}, {"id": "C6.13.20", "lines": ["And saw him cleanse it and bear it away,", "Their bravest warriors closed on him that day."]}, {"id": "C6.13.21", "lines": ["Their swords flashed round him in a fierce attack;", "One cleaved his hand off; still he fought them back."]}, {"id": "C6.13.22", "lines": ["He seized Fereydoon’s flag between his teeth,", "And with one hand still dealt out death beneath."]}, {"id": "C6.13.23", "lines": ["He plied his gorz, a marvel fierce and bold;", "At last they slew him where the dust-clouds rolled."]}, {"id": "C6.13.24", "lines": ["They flung him on the hot earth, held in scorn;", "Alas for that brave rider, nobly born!"]}, {"id": "C6.13.25", "lines": ["That ancient sage would see his son no more;", "Then lion Nastur charged with battle’s roar."]}, {"id": "C6.13.26", "lines": ["The noble son of valiant Prince Zarir", "Charged through the foe and filled their hearts with fear."]}, {"id": "C6.13.27", "lines": ["He slew a countless multitude of foes,", "For from his father’s art his valor rose."]}, {"id": "C6.13.28", "lines": ["At last he left the field, his glory earned,", "And to his father’s side in triumph turned."]}, {"id": "C6.13.29", "lines": ["Next Nivzar rode, a chosen horseman, one", "Who entered without fear, the sovereign’s son."]}, {"id": "C6.13.30", "lines": ["He rode a swift and finely colored steed;", "A thousand could not match that horse for speed."]}, {"id": "C6.13.31", "lines": ["He came upon that darkened battlefield,", "And shouted, holding high his spear and shield:"]}, {"id": "C6.13.32", "lines": ["“Chosen warriors, where among you all", "Is there a man of name to hear my call?"]}, {"id": "C6.13.33", "lines": ["What veteran wielder of the spear is near?", "Let him confront my lance and meet me here."]}, {"id": "C6.13.34", "lines": ["A man of mettle stands before your line.”", "The men of Chin rushed forward at the sign."]}, {"id": "C6.13.35", "lines": ["They strove to overthrow him in the fray;", "He faced their charge and would not turn away."]}, {"id": "C6.13.36", "lines": ["A dauntless horseman, bold of heart, was he,", "A wrathful elephant, a lion free."]}, {"id": "C6.13.37", "lines": ["He wheeled among Chin’s warriors, spurring fast,", "As though he rolled the earth up as he passed."]}, {"id": "C6.13.38", "lines": ["He slew a hundred twenty men of might;", "His war-gorz felled them in that charging fight."]}, {"id": "C6.13.39", "lines": ["But in the end an arrow from a bow", "Brought him the fate the heavens would bestow."]}, {"id": "C6.13.40", "lines": ["He fell from that fleet steed of noble hue,", "And died; the field of war had claimed him too."]}, {"id": "C6.13.41", "lines": ["Alas, that precious life was thrown away,", "For nothing, in the slaughter of that day!"]}, {"id": "C6.13.42", "lines": ["Sadly for that fair face and noble form,", "His father’s image, shattered in the storm."]}, {"id": "C6.13.43", "lines": ["Then thousand after thousand joined the fight;", "From every side their dust obscured the light."]}, {"id": "C6.13.44", "lines": ["No rider slept; the dead lay on the ground,", "With wounded men strewn everywhere around."]}, {"id": "C6.13.45", "lines": ["Two weeks they fought; the plains grew tulip-red,", "Across the barren land their blood was spread."]}, {"id": "C6.13.46", "lines": ["Dust barred the wind; the dead blocked every way;", "No man could cross where heaps of bodies lay."]}, {"id": "C6.14.1", "lines": ["Two weeks of bitter combat now had passed,", "And darker grew the struggle, fierce and vast."]}, {"id": "C6.14.2", "lines": ["Then brave Zarir advanced before the line,", "The Pahlevan through whom Iran would shine."]}, {"id": "C6.14.3", "lines": ["He rode a mighty dun toward Chin’s array,", "Then swept into their midst to strike and slay."]}, {"id": "C6.14.4", "lines": ["Like wind and blazing fire through grass he came,", "And sent the enemy to death and flame."]}, {"id": "C6.14.5", "lines": ["None who beheld him could withstand his might;", "He broke their ranks and scattered them in flight."]}, {"id": "C6.14.6", "lines": ["Arjasp beheld the prince lay great men low,", "And cried aloud to all his troops below:"]}, {"id": "C6.14.7", "lines": ["“Will you let Khallokh fall? We still contend", "After two weeks and see no battle’s end."]}, {"id": "C6.14.8", "lines": ["The warriors of Shah Goshtasb have slain", "So many famous men among our train."]}, {"id": "C6.14.9", "lines": ["And now Zarir is in your midst today,", "A wolf, a rending lion in the fray."]}, {"id": "C6.14.10", "lines": ["He has destroyed my warriors in the fight,", "My noble Turks, so famed for strength and might."]}, {"id": "C6.14.11", "lines": ["We must devise a remedy and cure,", "Or march back home with shame we must endure."]}, {"id": "C6.14.12", "lines": ["If he fights on, he sweeps us all away;", "Arjasp, Khallokh, and Chin will fall today."]}, {"id": "C6.14.13", "lines": ["What man among you, eager to win fame,", "Will go alone and win a deathless name?"]}, {"id": "C6.14.14", "lines": ["Who has the strength to make Zarir give ground,", "And turn his back while battle roars around?"]}, {"id": "C6.14.15", "lines": ["That man shall take my daughter as his bride,", "And lead my troops wherever he may ride.”"]}, {"id": "C6.14.16", "lines": ["The soldiers answered not a word at all,", "For all feared that wild boar’s destroying call."]}, {"id": "C6.14.17", "lines": ["At once Zarir, the Pahlevan of men,", "Advanced upon them like a wolf again."]}, {"id": "C6.14.18", "lines": ["He charged them like an elephant in might,", "A lion scattering death across the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.14.19", "lines": ["Arjasp, beholding this, was so amazed", "That all the daylight darkened as he gazed."]}, {"id": "C6.14.20", "lines": ["Again he cried, “Great warriors, hear my call!", "Will you let burning ruin seize us all?"]}, {"id": "C6.14.21", "lines": ["Do you not see your kin and allies die,", "The wounded groaning where the horses fly?"]}, {"id": "C6.14.22", "lines": ["He wields a gorz like Sahm’s in his attack,", "And shafts like Arash’s drive warriors back."]}, {"id": "C6.14.23", "lines": ["His flames consume my troops in war today,", "And scorch my kingdom’s gathered strength away."]}, {"id": "C6.14.24", "lines": ["Who has the strength and courage to confront", "That maddened Elephant and bear the brunt?"]}, {"id": "C6.14.25", "lines": ["Whoever hurls that warrior from his steed", "Shall win the royal bounty for that deed."]}, {"id": "C6.14.26", "lines": ["A treasury of gold shall be his prize;", "His crown shall rise beyond the turning skies.”"]}, {"id": "C6.14.27", "lines": ["Yet no man answered him; none made a sound.", "Arjasp grew pale and stared at those around."]}, {"id": "C6.14.28", "lines": ["A third time he addressed his fearful men,", "But no reply came back to him again."]}, {"id": "C6.14.29", "lines": ["At last strong Bidarfesh stepped from the throng,", "That foul old wolf, whose sorcery was strong."]}, {"id": "C6.14.30", "lines": ["He said, “O mighty Sun, in strength and frame", "Like Afrasiab, whose battles won him fame,"]}, {"id": "C6.14.31", "lines": ["I bring my life to you, a loyal shield,", "Though sweet to me, upon this bitter field."]}, {"id": "C6.14.32", "lines": ["I will confront your Elephant in fight;", "If I can cast him down before your sight,"]}, {"id": "C6.14.33", "lines": ["And fling him to the dust before your throne,", "Make me sepahbod, and the force my own.”"]}, {"id": "C6.14.34", "lines": ["Arjasp rejoiced to hear him pledge the deed,", "And gave his saddle and his own proud steed."]}, {"id": "C6.14.35", "lines": ["He gave a poisoned javelin to throw,", "To pierce an iron mountain with its blow."]}, {"id": "C6.14.36", "lines": ["That foul enchanter, loathsome in his form,", "Rode toward Zarir amid the dust and storm."]}, {"id": "C6.14.37", "lines": ["But when he saw Zarir, his eyes all tears,", "His face all dust, amid the flying spears,"]}, {"id": "C6.14.38", "lines": ["His gorz like Sahm’s great weapon in his hand,", "The slain piled up like hills across the land,"]}, {"id": "C6.14.39", "lines": ["He dared not face that champion in the fight,", "But circled round him, hidden from his sight."]}, {"id": "C6.14.40", "lines": ["Unseen, he hurled the poisoned spear; it sped", "Through royal jowshan, dyed the armor red."]}, {"id": "C6.14.41", "lines": ["His kingly form was drenched in flowing blood;", "He tumbled from his charger to the mud."]}, {"id": "C6.14.42", "lines": ["Woe for that royal horseman, young and dear!", "Foul Bidarfesh came down and stripped Zarir."]}, {"id": "C6.14.43", "lines": ["To Chin’s king went the spoils, the jeweled crown,", "Horse, belt, and black flag of the prince struck down."]}, {"id": "C6.14.44", "lines": ["The army shouted, surging through the shade,", "And on an elephant the standard swayed."]}, {"id": "C6.14.45", "lines": ["Goshtasb looked out from high upon the hill,", "And searched the dust for that bright moon until"]}, {"id": "C6.14.46", "lines": ["He saw no luster in the battle-cloud,", "And fear within his heart cried clear and loud:"]}, {"id": "C6.14.47", "lines": ["“That full-orbed moon whose radiance and might", "Once filled my lines with glory in the fight,"]}, {"id": "C6.14.48", "lines": ["My brother, brave Zarir, the lion bold,", "May lie unhorsed, his kingly body cold."]}, {"id": "C6.14.49", "lines": ["The warriors have ceased to let shafts fly;", "The princes shout no more beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C6.14.50", "lines": ["Perhaps the chief of nobles has been slain;", "Send out a camel rider to the plain."]}, {"id": "C6.14.51", "lines": ["Ride toward the sable standard; learn his case,", "For grief has burned the color from my face.”"]}, {"id": "C6.14.52", "lines": ["Thus fared the king until a horseman came,", "Whose eyes rained blood, whose tongue was full of flame:"]}, {"id": "C6.14.53", "lines": ["“The Turkish horsemen treacherously have slain", "Your Moon, who guarded crown and warlike train."]}, {"id": "C6.14.54", "lines": ["The Pahlevan of Pahlevans lies dead;", "Zarir no more will ride where armies spread."]}, {"id": "C6.14.55", "lines": ["For that chief warlock, Bidarfesh, in war", "Has struck him down and seized the flag he bore.”"]}, {"id": "C6.14.56", "lines": ["The mighty Shah heard how Zarir lay low;", "He tore his robes down to his feet in woe."]}, {"id": "C6.14.57", "lines": ["He cast dust on his bright and joyful crown,", "And to Jamasp spoke with his heart bowed down:"]}, {"id": "C6.14.58", "lines": ["“What shall I tell Lohrasp, now worn and old?", "How can this news of fire and grief be told?"]}, {"id": "C6.14.59", "lines": ["How can I send a messenger today?", "Alas, my moon has set and passed away!"]}, {"id": "C6.14.60", "lines": ["Bring Golgun, Lohrasp’s horse, here to my side;", "Set my own saddle on his back,” he cried."]}, {"id": "C6.14.61", "lines": ["He armed himself to avenge his brother’s name,", "To guard his Faith, his honor, and his fame."]}, {"id": "C6.14.62", "lines": ["His seasoned minister said, “You must pause;", "Your going forth for vengeance harms the cause.”"]}, {"id": "C6.14.63", "lines": ["The Shah dismounted, sat upon the throne,", "Then asked his troops in grief’s commanding tone:"]}, {"id": "C6.14.64", "lines": ["“What lion now will rise for brave Zarir,", "And bring his saddle and his charger here?"]}, {"id": "C6.14.65", "lines": ["Before Yazdan of earth and sky I swear,", "And righteous chiefs who hear what I declare:"]}, {"id": "C6.14.66", "lines": ["Whoever steps forth now shall take as bride", "Homahyi, my own daughter, at his side.”"]}, {"id": "C6.14.67", "lines": ["No warrior stepped forward from his place;", "None stirred to stand before the monarch’s face."]}, {"id": "C6.15.1", "lines": ["Then bitter news was brought through grief and pain:", "“Zarir, the royal rider, has been slain."]}, {"id": "C6.15.2", "lines": ["Your father’s heart is crushed beneath the blow;", "He seeks revenge upon the murderous foe.”"]}, {"id": "C6.15.3", "lines": ["Esfandiyar struck his hands and cried:", "“What wound has Fortune failed to open wide?"]}, {"id": "C6.15.4", "lines": ["When bright Zarir still rode before my sight,", "I always feared the coming of this night."]}, {"id": "C6.15.5", "lines": ["Alas for that great horseman, chief of war,", "Whose crown of Fortune gleams for him no more."]}, {"id": "C6.15.6", "lines": ["Who struck that prince, that elephant in might?", "Who tore that iron mountain from the fight?”"]}, {"id": "C6.15.7", "lines": ["He gave his flag, his troops, his honored place", "To one dear brother of the royal race."]}, {"id": "C6.15.8", "lines": ["He armed himself and took Zarir’s command,", "Then in the army’s center made his stand."]}, {"id": "C6.15.9", "lines": ["He seized the royal standard in his hand,", "And stood, a lion, firm before the band."]}, {"id": "C6.15.10", "lines": ["Five brothers stood before him, brave and bold,", "High-born, of Goshtasb’s royal blood of old."]}, {"id": "C6.15.11", "lines": ["They honored him above the rest in war,", "For he had broken armies long before."]}, {"id": "C6.15.12", "lines": ["He faced the nobles, calling to the crowd:", "“O champions of the Shah, renowned and proud,"]}, {"id": "C6.15.13", "lines": ["Attend my words and hold to what I say;", "Trust God’s true Faith to guide us through this day."]}, {"id": "C6.15.14", "lines": ["This day will show who keeps the Faith sincere,", "And who denies it when the foe draws near."]}, {"id": "C6.15.15", "lines": ["So fear not death, whatever may appear;", "No man can die before his hour is here."]}, {"id": "C6.15.16", "lines": ["If Fate has fixed our death upon this day,", "What better end than dying in the fray?"]}, {"id": "C6.15.17", "lines": ["Do not look back upon the fallen dead;", "Seek no relief, nor count each fighting head."]}, {"id": "C6.15.18", "lines": ["Do not trust flight, nor tremble when they close;", "Let leveled lances drive away our foes."]}, {"id": "C6.15.19", "lines": ["Stand firm awhile and prove your manhood true;", "Perform the charge that I have laid on you."]}, {"id": "C6.15.20", "lines": ["If you obey the orders I now give,", "Your bodies will be spared, and you will live."]}, {"id": "C6.15.21", "lines": ["Your names will spread through all the world’s domains;", "The old Wolf’s troops will die upon these plains.”"]}, {"id": "C6.15.22", "lines": ["While thus Esfandiyar prepared the fight,", "His father called down from the mountain height:"]}, {"id": "C6.15.23", "lines": ["“O warriors dearer than my heart and soul,", "Let fear of shafts or swords not seize control."]}, {"id": "C6.15.24", "lines": ["No flight can save us from our destined end;", "By God’s true Faith, which all of us defend,"]}, {"id": "C6.15.25", "lines": ["By brave Esfandiyar, and by Zarir,", "Whose soul in Paradise is held most dear,"]}, {"id": "C6.15.26", "lines": ["I wrote to old Lohrasp and pledged my word,", "In keeping with the counsel I had heard:"]}, {"id": "C6.15.27", "lines": ["If Fortune brings me home from battle’s field,", "To Esfandiyar the crown and throne I yield."]}, {"id": "C6.15.28", "lines": ["As once my father gave to me the crown,", "So to my son I pass that kingship down."]}, {"id": "C6.15.29", "lines": ["I shall give Bishutan the troops,” he said,", "“And set a royal crown upon his head.”"]}, {"id": "C6.16.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar, huge-bodied, fierce in form,", "A man of wisdom, braced to face the storm,"]}, {"id": "C6.16.2", "lines": ["He heard his father shouting from the height,", "And bowed his head in grief before the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.16.3", "lines": ["With spear in hand, he sought his father’s face,", "And bent in sorrow with a restrained grace."]}, {"id": "C6.16.4", "lines": ["Then, like a Div who bursts both bolt and chain,", "He mounted, and his dark steed shook the plain."]}, {"id": "C6.16.5", "lines": ["Like rose petals swept by a sudden blast,", "The ranks he struck were scattered wide and fast."]}, {"id": "C6.16.6", "lines": ["He slew, beheaded, swept their men away,", "And filled their hearts with terror and dismay."]}, {"id": "C6.16.7", "lines": ["Nastur, Zarir’s own son, came from his tent,", "And to his father’s horse attendant went."]}, {"id": "C6.16.8", "lines": ["He said, “Bring out a charger fresh and fleet,", "Well-fed and rested, nimble on his feet.”"]}, {"id": "C6.16.9", "lines": ["They set a golden saddle for the fray,", "And cinched the royal harness for the day."]}, {"id": "C6.16.10", "lines": ["They laid the horse’s armor on its back,", "Tied the Kayanian kamand to the tack."]}, {"id": "C6.16.11", "lines": ["Then fully armed, the grieving youth took rein,", "And rode his charger toward the battle plain."]}, {"id": "C6.16.12", "lines": ["With spear in hand, he rode into the fight,", "And searched for where his father fell from sight."]}, {"id": "C6.16.13", "lines": ["He hurried, gave his charger all its speed,", "And took revenge with every bloody deed."]}, {"id": "C6.16.14", "lines": ["When he beheld a man of Iran’s line,", "He asked, “Where fell that father, lord of mine?"]}, {"id": "C6.16.15", "lines": ["Where did Zarir, my father, fall below,", "That dauntless rider who had faced the foe?”"]}, {"id": "C6.16.16", "lines": ["A man named Ardeshir was standing near,", "A horseman famed, a lion without fear."]}, {"id": "C6.16.17", "lines": ["The grieving prince asked where Zarir now lay;", "The warrior pointed out the mournful way."]}, {"id": "C6.16.18", "lines": ["“He fell,” said Ardeshir, “within the line,", "Beside that sable standard’s mournful sign."]}, {"id": "C6.16.19", "lines": ["Go quickly there; that sable mark appears,", "And you may see the face that claims your tears.”"]}, {"id": "C6.16.20", "lines": ["The prince urged on his steed and onward sped,", "While foes fell thick along his path ahead."]}, {"id": "C6.16.21", "lines": ["He rushed until he found his father slain,", "His body cast, stripped bare, upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C6.16.22", "lines": ["His heart and reason failed before that sight;", "He leapt down from his saddle in his plight."]}, {"id": "C6.16.23", "lines": ["He cast himself upon his father’s breast,", "And cried, “My moon, my radiance, and my rest,"]}, {"id": "C6.16.24", "lines": ["My heart, my eyes, my soul; you lit them all;", "Now darkness wraps the world beneath its pall."]}, {"id": "C6.16.25", "lines": ["What toil and care you bore to raise my name;", "To whom did you entrust me when death came?"]}, {"id": "C6.16.26", "lines": ["Since Shah Lohrasp gave all the troops to you,", "And gave Goshtasb the crown and kingdom too,"]}, {"id": "C6.16.27", "lines": ["You ruled the troops and realm with steadfast will,", "And longed for battle, eager for it still."]}, {"id": "C6.16.28", "lines": ["Your name had shone throughout the world, and yet", "You fell before your wishes could be met."]}, {"id": "C6.16.29", "lines": ["I seek your brother, that auspicious king,", "And to his ears this bitter summons bring:"]}, {"id": "C6.16.30", "lines": ["‘Come down! Zarir deserved much more from you;", "Go take revenge on those who ran him through.’”"]}, {"id": "C6.16.31", "lines": ["He mourned at length, then mounted with a cry,", "And sought the Shah whose throne was raised on high."]}, {"id": "C6.16.32", "lines": ["The Kayanian-born cried out, “Shah, arise!", "Avenge my father, where in dust he lies."]}, {"id": "C6.16.33", "lines": ["My father lies upon the earth’s dry crust,", "His black beard, sweet with musk, now in the dust.”"]}, {"id": "C6.16.34", "lines": ["When Shah Goshtasb heard this, the daylight died;", "The world grew dark; his strength was swept aside."]}, {"id": "C6.16.35", "lines": ["His mighty frame grew frail, his vigor fled;", "He cried, “Bring jowshan, helmet for my head."]}, {"id": "C6.16.36", "lines": ["Bring out my sable steed; today shall flow", "The blood in streams from those who laid him low."]}, {"id": "C6.16.37", "lines": ["I shall ignite the world; its flames shall fly,", "And raise the smoke to Kayvan in the sky.”"]}, {"id": "C6.16.38", "lines": ["The warriors cried, “Why muster this array", "If you, the Shah, must go and join the fray?"]}, {"id": "C6.16.39", "lines": ["Do not go forth, O king, to seek the foe;", "Arjasp is seeking you to strike you low.”"]}, {"id": "C6.16.40", "lines": ["The minister said, “Do not fight; instead", "Give Nastur your own steed; send him ahead;"]}, {"id": "C6.16.41", "lines": ["For he will take his father’s vengeance due,", "And do so better, mighty Shah, than you.”"]}, {"id": "C6.17.1", "lines": ["The Shah gave Behzad, jowshan, helm of steel,", "To young Nastur, of firm, unfailing zeal."]}, {"id": "C6.17.2", "lines": ["Zarir’s bereaved son, equipped for fight,", "Rode out between the armies in their sight."]}, {"id": "C6.17.3", "lines": ["Before the hostile line he drew the rein,", "And drew one bitter sigh for Zarir slain."]}, {"id": "C6.17.4", "lines": ["He cried, “Nastur am I, Zarir’s own heir;", "No lion dares confront me anywhere."]}, {"id": "C6.17.5", "lines": ["Where is that warlock Bidarfesh, whose hand", "Still holds the Kaveh standard in this land?”"]}, {"id": "C6.17.6", "lines": ["When no reply came back, he urged his steed,", "Night-colored Behzad, through the ranks at speed."]}, {"id": "C6.17.7", "lines": ["He slew great numbers from the hostile side,", "And none came forth to answer him in pride."]}, {"id": "C6.17.8", "lines": ["Meanwhile, brave Esfandiyar broke through,", "With countless blows, as through their ranks he flew."]}, {"id": "C6.17.9", "lines": ["As the king of Chin held Nastur’s attack,", "That Kayanian youth drove the battle back."]}, {"id": "C6.17.10", "lines": ["He cried, “What spearman is this warrior here,", "Who slays my chiefs and fills my men with fear?"]}, {"id": "C6.17.11", "lines": ["He slays my chiefs! Is this Zarir the brave,", "Returned to face my army from the grave?"]}, {"id": "C6.17.12", "lines": ["He rode against me in this very way;", "Where now is Bidarfesh? Bring him today.”"]}, {"id": "C6.17.13", "lines": ["Then Bidarfesh came forward at the cry,", "The violet banner lifted toward the sky."]}, {"id": "C6.17.14", "lines": ["He rode Zarir’s own charger in his pride,", "And wore Zarir’s bright jowshan, side to side."]}, {"id": "C6.17.15", "lines": ["He rode to meet Nastur, the army’s light,", "That royal youth now poised to join the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.17.16", "lines": ["With sword and arrow, round and round they wheeled,", "Zarir’s son and the warlock on the field."]}, {"id": "C6.17.17", "lines": ["The glorious Prince Esfandiyar was told", "That Nastur fought the warlock, foul and old."]}, {"id": "C6.17.18", "lines": ["He hastened there with all his strength and speed,", "Intent to reach the two in sudden need."]}, {"id": "C6.17.19", "lines": ["When that chief sorcerer saw who came so fast,", "He turned his charger from the fight aghast."]}, {"id": "C6.17.20", "lines": ["He hurled his poisoned weapon through the air,", "To strike the prince’s face, so bright and fair."]}, {"id": "C6.17.21", "lines": ["It missed; Esfandiyar caught it in flight,", "Then drove it through the warlock with his might."]}, {"id": "C6.17.22", "lines": ["He pierced the warlock’s liver with one blow;", "The point burst out behind in crimson flow."]}, {"id": "C6.17.23", "lines": ["Then Bidarfesh fell headlong from his steed,", "And learned the might of Kayanian blood and deed."]}, {"id": "C6.17.24", "lines": ["Esfandiyar dismounted where he died,", "And stripped Zarir’s bright armor from his side."]}, {"id": "C6.17.25", "lines": ["He severed then the warlock’s loathsome head,", "And led Zarir’s bright charger from the dead."]}, {"id": "C6.17.26", "lines": ["He bore the flag and worthless head away,", "While Kayanian fighters roared into the day."]}, {"id": "C6.17.27", "lines": ["To heaven rose their shout: “The prince has won!", "The foe lies overthrown; the deed is done!"]}, {"id": "C6.17.28", "lines": ["He brought back spear and dun steed from the plain,", "And struck the warlock down among the slain.”"]}, {"id": "C6.17.29", "lines": ["The prince brought horse and head before the throne;", "The slayer slain: thus custom claimed its own."]}, {"id": "C6.18.1", "lines": ["When great Esfandiyar avenged the slain,", "He saddled Zarir’s steed and took the rein."]}, {"id": "C6.18.2", "lines": ["He proudly turned back to the fight and set", "Three Kayanian fight lines to meet the threat."]}, {"id": "C6.18.3", "lines": ["One part he gave to brave Nastur’s command,", "High-born, the shining light of all the band."]}, {"id": "C6.18.4", "lines": ["The second, filled with chiefs of proven worth,", "He gave his brother, famed for royal birth."]}, {"id": "C6.18.5", "lines": ["The third he kept to lead, himself its guide,", "His voice like thunder rolling far and wide."]}, {"id": "C6.18.6", "lines": ["They stood before Esfandiyar in war,", "Whose might had shattered armies long before."]}, {"id": "C6.18.7", "lines": ["Nastur, Zarir’s high-born and valiant son,", "And Nush Azar, through whose strength wars were won,"]}, {"id": "C6.18.8", "lines": ["Together swore this oath before the fight:", "“Though hostile swords should rend the earth outright,"]}, {"id": "C6.18.9", "lines": ["We shall not leave the battlefield alive,", "Nor yield our hold, however hard they strive.”"]}, {"id": "C6.18.10", "lines": ["They spoke, made firm the girths around each steed,", "Then rode out to the battle at full speed."]}, {"id": "C6.18.11", "lines": ["As from the lines the princes rode ahead,", "Iran’s brave warriors followed where they led."]}, {"id": "C6.18.12", "lines": ["Their armor made the world a dazzling sight;", "The dead lay heaped, with little room to fight."]}, {"id": "C6.18.13", "lines": ["The mill-wheels turned in blood across the ground,", "From hill to field the crimson torrent wound."]}, {"id": "C6.18.14", "lines": ["Arjasp beheld them, then advanced his train,", "His chiefs and warriors charging through the slain."]}, {"id": "C6.18.15", "lines": ["Esfandiyar, who brought great heroes low,", "Couched his long lance against the Turkish foe."]}, {"id": "C6.18.16", "lines": ["He pinned them breast to back with thrust on thrust,", "And hurled their haughty chieftains to the dust."]}, {"id": "C6.18.17", "lines": ["The Khan saw none who dared withstand his spear,", "And watched his broken troops give way in fear."]}, {"id": "C6.18.18", "lines": ["He held his post until the evening shade,", "Then fled into the wilderness, dismayed."]}, {"id": "C6.18.19", "lines": ["Iran pressed hard on Chin’s retreating train,", "And slaughtered them across the crimson plain."]}, {"id": "C6.19.1", "lines": ["The Turkish troops saw that Arjasp had fled,", "While swords flashed bright around each trembling head."]}, {"id": "C6.19.2", "lines": ["Their chiefs dismounted, fear in every face,", "And came to Esfandiyar to plead for grace."]}, {"id": "C6.19.3", "lines": ["They stripped their battle-coats and cast away", "Their Turkish bows, abandoning the fray."]}, {"id": "C6.19.4", "lines": ["They said, “O Prince, have mercy on us here;", "Grant life to servants overcome by fear."]}, {"id": "C6.19.5", "lines": ["We will accept your Faith and seek its light,", "And worship at the Fires with hearts made right.”"]}, {"id": "C6.19.6", "lines": ["Iran’s fierce soldiers would not stay their blows;", "The world ran red with slaughtered Turkish foes."]}, {"id": "C6.19.7", "lines": ["Esfandiyar, on hearing what they said,", "Gave quarter: none should wound or strike them dead."]}, {"id": "C6.19.8", "lines": ["That elephantine hero, royal-born,", "Called out to those whose foes lay crushed and torn:"]}, {"id": "C6.19.9", "lines": ["“Nobles of Iran, spare Chin’s men; refrain;", "The foe is overthrown; let mercy reign."]}, {"id": "C6.19.10", "lines": ["Restrain your hands; let slaughter now be past;", "Let no more captives into chains be cast."]}, {"id": "C6.19.11", "lines": ["Give quarter to these dogs; let mercy spare", "Their wretched lives, now sunk in deep despair."]}, {"id": "C6.19.12", "lines": ["Bind none in chains; let further bloodshed cease;", "Recall the troops and give the field its peace."]}, {"id": "C6.19.13", "lines": ["Do not let horses trample on the dead;", "Go count the wounded lying where they bled."]}, {"id": "C6.19.14", "lines": ["By dear Zarir’s soul, take no more as prey;", "Dismount and rest your battle-steeds today.”"]}, {"id": "C6.19.15", "lines": ["His warriors heard and turned to face their chief,", "Whose word had brought the conquered men relief."]}, {"id": "C6.19.16", "lines": ["They marched back to the camp; tabiras rolled,", "Their hands victorious and their courage bold."]}, {"id": "C6.19.17", "lines": ["None slept that night, fired by victory’s flame;", "Their deeds were worthy of great Rostam’s name."]}, {"id": "C6.19.18", "lines": ["When night had passed and dawn had climbed the sky,", "Blood still ran where the dead were left to lie."]}, {"id": "C6.19.19", "lines": ["Shah Goshtasb, with his captains at his side,", "Went out to view the field where thousands died."]}, {"id": "C6.19.20", "lines": ["He moved among the dead, and as he went,", "Wept over each in sorrow and lament."]}, {"id": "C6.19.21", "lines": ["But when he saw his brother on the ground,", "Flung vilely down amid the heaps around,"]}, {"id": "C6.19.22", "lines": ["He tore apart the royal robe he wore,", "Dismounted from Shulak and grieved still more."]}, {"id": "C6.19.23", "lines": ["He clutched his beard in both his hands and cried:", "“O Prince of Balkh, with you all joy has died."]}, {"id": "C6.19.24", "lines": ["O gallant horseman, chief of royal name,", "O chosen hero, crowned in warlike fame,"]}, {"id": "C6.19.25", "lines": ["My pillar, guardian of our country’s might,", "Crown of the army, all the world’s bright light!”"]}, {"id": "C6.19.26", "lines": ["He then drew close and raised him from the plain,", "And cleansed his face himself of blood and stain."]}, {"id": "C6.19.27", "lines": ["He laid him in a golden coffin, torn", "With grief, as though Zarir had not been born."]}, {"id": "C6.19.28", "lines": ["His youthful kin and nobles of renown", "Were laid in coffins, all by war struck down."]}, {"id": "C6.19.29", "lines": ["He ordered them to count the slain and bear", "The wounded soldiers in from everywhere."]}, {"id": "C6.19.30", "lines": ["They searched the battlefield, each mountain road,", "And desert tract where blood of warriors flowed."]}, {"id": "C6.19.31", "lines": ["Of Iran’s soldiers, thirty thousand died,", "And seven hundred chiefs fell at their side."]}, {"id": "C6.19.32", "lines": ["A thousand forty wounded chiefs had fled", "The elephants; they lived among the dead."]}, {"id": "C6.19.33", "lines": ["A hundred thousand foes lay dead that day;", "Three thousand and two hundred wounded lay."]}, {"id": "C6.19.34", "lines": ["Their fallen chiefs were counted on the ground:", "Eleven hundred sixty-three were found."]}, {"id": "C6.20.1", "lines": ["Goshtasb, the Kayanian Shah, left the fray,", "And turned toward Balkh, where his royal seat lay."]}, {"id": "C6.20.2", "lines": ["He told Nastur, “When darkness yields to dawn,", "Lead back the army; homeward we are drawn.”"]}, {"id": "C6.20.3", "lines": ["That chosen chief had the great kousts resound", "At daybreak; then the baggage all was bound."]}, {"id": "C6.20.4", "lines": ["They turned toward Iran, the royal land,", "Stout-hearted still, a strong and fighting band."]}, {"id": "C6.20.5", "lines": ["They left no wounded soldier cast aside,", "But bore the wounded back with royal pride."]}, {"id": "C6.20.6", "lines": ["They had the wounded by physicians healed;", "The Shah came home in triumph from the field."]}, {"id": "C6.20.7", "lines": ["He gave Homahyi, his daughter fair of face,", "To his own eldest son of royal race."]}, {"id": "C6.20.8", "lines": ["He gave illustrious Nastur full command,", "As was the ancient custom of the land."]}, {"id": "C6.20.9", "lines": ["A hundred thousand men he gave to him,", "Far-ranging horsemen, lancers fierce and grim."]}, {"id": "C6.20.10", "lines": ["He gave command and said, “Brave spearman, go", "Against the Turkish monarch; lay him low."]}, {"id": "C6.20.11", "lines": ["Across Khallokh your father’s blood demands", "Revenge: kill all you find throughout its lands.”"]}, {"id": "C6.20.12", "lines": ["The Shah supplied whatever he required,", "With neither count nor reckoning desired."]}, {"id": "C6.20.13", "lines": ["Then young Nastur rode forth, his troops behind,", "All armed for battle, all of single mind."]}, {"id": "C6.20.14", "lines": ["The Shah sat crowned upon his royal throne,", "And called the troops before him, all his own."]}, {"id": "C6.20.15", "lines": ["He opened treasury doors and scattered gold,", "And gave rich cities to his captains bold."]}, {"id": "C6.20.16", "lines": ["He granted realms and dignities, each weighed", "By merit, to the worthy men arrayed."]}, {"id": "C6.20.17", "lines": ["He passed none over; each received his due,", "Then sent them home with wealth and honor too."]}, {"id": "C6.20.18", "lines": ["He tethered up his horse and went to rest", "Within the royal palace he possessed."]}, {"id": "C6.20.19", "lines": ["At his command they set the fire alight,", "With Indian aloeswood that burned there bright."]}, {"id": "C6.20.20", "lines": ["They paved its floor with beaten gold; instead", "Of dust, rich ambergris lay thickly spread."]}, {"id": "C6.20.21", "lines": ["He set each part in order, wall by wall,", "And named the place “Goshtasb’s Royal Hall.”"]}, {"id": "C6.20.22", "lines": ["Jamasp became its chief Mobad and guide;", "Then letters went to governors far and wide:"]}, {"id": "C6.20.23", "lines": ["“Yazdan has not abandoned us in fight;", "He turned to day the darkness of our night."]}, {"id": "C6.20.24", "lines": ["He made the Kayanian kings everywhere", "Victorious; Arjasp now meets despair."]}, {"id": "C6.20.25", "lines": ["Who but the Maker of the world can do", "Such works and bring such victory to view?"]}, {"id": "C6.20.26", "lines": ["When you have heard your Shah has won the field,", "To keepers of the Fire your tribute yield.”"]}, {"id": "C6.20.27", "lines": ["To Goshtasb’s court from Rum an envoy went", "With wealth, slave-boys, and steeds that Caesar sent."]}, {"id": "C6.20.28", "lines": ["The horses came in trappings richly laid;", "The kings of Hind and Sind their tribute paid."]}, {"id": "C6.21.1", "lines": ["One day the bright, fair-fortuned monarch shone,", "In Kayanian glory sat on his throne."]}, {"id": "C6.21.2", "lines": ["He gave his audience to the realm’s great men,", "The nobles and chiefs, princes gathered then."]}, {"id": "C6.21.3", "lines": ["Then brave Esfandiyar before him came,", "Ox-headed gorz in hand, renowned by name."]}, {"id": "C6.21.4", "lines": ["A Kayanian helmet on his moon-bright head;", "He stood before the throne with reverent dread."]}, {"id": "C6.21.5", "lines": ["He bowed his head and crossed his hands in grace", "Before the Shah who held the Kayanian place."]}, {"id": "C6.21.6", "lines": ["The Shah beheld his son, whom he thought dear", "Beyond his life and all the earthly sphere."]}, {"id": "C6.21.7", "lines": ["The smiling Shah said, “Esfandiyar, brave heart,", "Do you not long again for war to start?”"]}, {"id": "C6.21.8", "lines": ["The swordsman answered, “Yours alone the voice;", "You hold the world and kingship; yours the choice.”"]}, {"id": "C6.21.9", "lines": ["The famous Kayanian gave a crown of gold,", "Unlocked his treasure-house, and wealth was doled."]}, {"id": "C6.21.10", "lines": ["He placed Iran’s command beneath his care,", "For Pahlevan-like strength was his to bear."]}, {"id": "C6.21.11", "lines": ["He gave him banners, treasure, troops, and said,", "“The time to take the throne still lies ahead."]}, {"id": "C6.21.12", "lines": ["Mount now your steed and ride through every land;", "Bring all its peoples to the Faith’s command.”"]}, {"id": "C6.21.13", "lines": ["The Shah’s son rode, a swordsman trained to slay,", "And led his army on its distant way."]}, {"id": "C6.21.14", "lines": ["Through Rum and Hindustan his banners passed,", "Through sea and darkness, over regions vast."]}, {"id": "C6.21.15", "lines": ["He taught the Faith by God’s express command,", "Explaining all its precepts through the land."]}, {"id": "C6.21.16", "lines": ["When people learned the goodness of the creed,", "They took its rites and honored word and deed."]}, {"id": "C6.21.17", "lines": ["They decked themselves with it and sought its lore,", "And served the idols of their past no more."]}, {"id": "C6.21.18", "lines": ["They lit the Fire where idols once had shone,", "And sent this letter to the Kayanian throne:"]}, {"id": "C6.21.19", "lines": ["“The Faith Esfandiyar has now made known", "We have accepted, taken as our own."]}, {"id": "C6.21.20", "lines": ["We bound the cincture; he reduced our due,", "And said no further tax was owed to you."]}, {"id": "C6.21.21", "lines": ["We have professed the Faith in word and deed;", "Send Zardosht’s Zand-Avesta for our need.”"]}, {"id": "C6.21.22", "lines": ["When Goshtasb read what distant kings had sent,", "He called his peers, his heart and mind content."]}, {"id": "C6.21.23", "lines": ["He had the Zand-Avesta then conveyed", "To all the chiefs and nobles who obeyed."]}, {"id": "C6.21.24", "lines": ["He charged the famous Pahlevan to ride", "Through all the world with justice at his side."]}, {"id": "C6.21.25", "lines": ["Wherever that great prince rode into sight,", "No man dared face him in an open fight."]}, {"id": "C6.21.26", "lines": ["All peoples placed themselves beneath his hand,", "And evil vanished from the conquered land."]}, {"id": "C6.21.27", "lines": ["When all the world obeyed his father’s might,", "He loosed his golden belt, his heart grown light."]}, {"id": "C6.21.28", "lines": ["He sat upon a royal, honored seat,", "And rested with his men, his task complete."]}, {"id": "C6.21.29", "lines": ["He summoned Farshidvard, his brother dear,", "And chose a force of men who knew no fear."]}, {"id": "C6.21.30", "lines": ["He gave him troops and gold for his domain,", "And sent him forth in Khorasan to reign."]}, {"id": "C6.21.31", "lines": ["When time had passed, and all the world grew bright,", "Made pure and turned toward the holy rite,"]}, {"id": "C6.21.32", "lines": ["Esfandiyar sent word when all was done:", "“Victorious Shah, the world at last is won."]}, {"id": "C6.21.33", "lines": ["By God’s own farr the world is purified;", "The homa’s shadow shelters far and wide."]}, {"id": "C6.21.34", "lines": ["No man need fear another’s hostile hand;", "No man lacks gold or silver in the land."]}, {"id": "C6.21.35", "lines": ["The world, like Paradise, now blooms and grows;", "Our horsemen guard the farmers as each sows."]}, {"id": "C6.21.36", "lines": ["Command me: shall I come to see your face,", "Or serve you in some other task or place?”"]}, {"id": "C6.21.37", "lines": ["The envoy took the prince’s glad report", "To Goshtasb, seated in his royal court."]}, {"id": "C6.22.1", "lines": ["They say that when the Shah bestowed the crown", "On Esfandiyar, a prince of great renown,"]}, {"id": "C6.22.2", "lines": ["There was a noble named Gurazm at court,", "A war-worn man, renowned in field and fort."]}, {"id": "C6.22.3", "lines": ["He nursed a hidden rancor for the heir;", "What lay between them I cannot declare."]}, {"id": "C6.22.4", "lines": ["Yet I have heard he was Goshtasb’s own kin,", "While hate for that Shah’s son burned deep within."]}, {"id": "C6.22.5", "lines": ["Wherever Esfandiyar’s name was heard,", "Gurazm would answer with a scornful word."]}, {"id": "C6.22.6", "lines": ["One dawn the famous Shah sat at his ease,", "Within his hall among the proud grandees."]}, {"id": "C6.22.7", "lines": ["He held an audience for the gathered court,", "For kings and nobles held in high report."]}, {"id": "C6.22.8", "lines": ["Gurazm came forward, sat before the king,", "And sought a way to broach a bitter thing."]}, {"id": "C6.22.9", "lines": ["When young boughs strike the old, they bring them down,", "And cast into the dust their leafy crown."]}, {"id": "C6.22.10", "lines": ["Then someone spoke of Esfandiyar’s name;", "Now mark how Gurazm laid the ground for blame."]}, {"id": "C6.22.11", "lines": ["He struck his hands and cried, “A wicked son", "May prove a foe before his course is done."]}, {"id": "C6.22.12", "lines": ["Such sons should never rise to high estate;", "Advancing them invites a darker fate."]}, {"id": "C6.22.13", "lines": ["A faithful Mobad said, ‘A son whose power", "Grows great and fearsome darkens his sire’s hour."]}, {"id": "C6.22.14", "lines": ["A slave who turns against his lord must pay", "With his own head for choosing treason’s way.’"]}, {"id": "C6.22.15", "lines": ["A confidant first brought this news to me;", "I doubted that such wickedness could be.”"]}, {"id": "C6.22.16", "lines": ["Goshtasb asked, “What secret do you bring?", "Whom does it touch? Explain this hidden thing.”"]}, {"id": "C6.22.17", "lines": ["The slanderer replied, “It would be wrong", "To speak of such a matter to the throng.”"]}, {"id": "C6.22.18", "lines": ["The king dismissed the court and called him near:", "“Come, tell me all. Let every word be clear."]}, {"id": "C6.22.19", "lines": ["Reveal the secret of this foe of mine;", "Explain to me his hidden ill design.”"]}, {"id": "C6.22.20", "lines": ["Gurazm, whose mind was evil, answered, stern:", "“To do the right is wisdom’s first concern."]}, {"id": "C6.22.21", "lines": ["The Shah has granted every wish I made;", "I must not keep this treason in the shade."]}, {"id": "C6.22.22", "lines": ["I will not hide my counsel out of fear,", "Although the Shah may find it hard to hear."]}, {"id": "C6.22.23", "lines": ["I shall reveal the secret, come what may,", "Although the Shah should order me away."]}, {"id": "C6.22.24", "lines": ["To speak, though he may doubt the truth I bring,", "Is better than to hide so grave a thing."]}, {"id": "C6.22.25", "lines": ["Know this, great Shah: your son prepares to fight", "Against your throne and all your royal might."]}, {"id": "C6.22.26", "lines": ["The troops have flocked to him in countless bands,", "And all men turn toward him with ready hands."]}, {"id": "C6.22.27", "lines": ["His purpose is to put you into chains;", "He cannot bear your crown while power remains."]}, {"id": "C6.22.28", "lines": ["When he has seized and bound your royal frame,", "He means to rule the world in his own name."]}, {"id": "C6.22.29", "lines": ["You know Esfandiyar has none his peer", "In battle; none will face him without fear."]}, {"id": "C6.22.30", "lines": ["When he has coiled his kamand for the fight,", "The sun itself would not confront his might."]}, {"id": "C6.22.31", "lines": ["I have told all the truth that reached my ear;", "Now counsel wisely, for danger draws near.”"]}, {"id": "C6.22.32", "lines": ["When thus Gurazm had spoken in that place,", "The famous monarch stared with altered face."]}, {"id": "C6.22.33", "lines": ["He said, “Who ever saw so strange a thing?”", "And wrath began to seize the troubled king."]}, {"id": "C6.22.34", "lines": ["He drank no wine and turned from all delight,", "Refused the feast, and sighed throughout the night."]}, {"id": "C6.22.35", "lines": ["He could not sleep, but pondered till the light,", "Anxious for what his son might now incite."]}, {"id": "C6.22.36", "lines": ["When dawn breathed bright above the mountain crest,", "And all the stars grew dim and sank to rest,"]}, {"id": "C6.22.37", "lines": ["He summoned wise Jamasp, experienced, old,", "His chief minister, trusted, firm, and bold."]}, {"id": "C6.22.38", "lines": ["He said, “Go to Esfandiyar; take heed:", "Call him at once; his presence now I need."]}, {"id": "C6.22.39", "lines": ["Say: ‘Read my letter; come without delay.", "A grave affair confronts the realm today."]}, {"id": "C6.22.40", "lines": ["I need you now; this task depends on you.", "Without you, I cannot see matters through.’”"]}, {"id": "C6.22.41", "lines": ["He wrote an urgent letter in these lines:", "“O noble prince, whose royal glory shines,"]}, {"id": "C6.22.42", "lines": ["I send Jamasp, who served in former days,", "And knew Shah Lohrasp’s court and all its ways."]}, {"id": "C6.22.43", "lines": ["When you behold him, gird yourself and ride;", "On swift steeds come with Jamasp at your side."]}, {"id": "C6.22.44", "lines": ["If you are sleeping, spring up where you lie;", "If standing, let no further time pass by.”"]}, {"id": "C6.22.45", "lines": ["Jamasp took up the letter from the court,", "And sped through hills and deserts to report."]}, {"id": "C6.23.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar was hunting far from court,", "And on the plain pursued his chosen sport."]}, {"id": "C6.23.2", "lines": ["Across the hunting ground, he heard a shout:", "“The Shah has sent Jamasp!” the voice rang out."]}, {"id": "C6.23.3", "lines": ["He started at the news, his heart distressed;", "Then laughed aloud, though trouble filled his breast."]}, {"id": "C6.23.4", "lines": ["Four chosen sons were his, a valiant band,", "All keen for battle, each with spear in hand."]}, {"id": "C6.23.5", "lines": ["Bahman and Mehr-e-Nush, both bold in fight;", "Azar Afruz, the third, whose mind was bright."]}, {"id": "C6.23.6", "lines": ["The fourth, Nush Azar, built a sacred dome", "To give the holy fire a sheltered home."]}, {"id": "C6.23.7", "lines": ["Then Bahman said, “May you live long and well;", "Your hollow laughter speaks of grief to tell."]}, {"id": "C6.23.8", "lines": ["I do not know the cause.” His father said:", "“My son, the Shah’s own messenger has sped."]}, {"id": "C6.23.9", "lines": ["He comes from one who turns from me today;", "Some grudge has turned his heart from me away.”"]}, {"id": "C6.23.10", "lines": ["The noble youth replied, “What have you done?", "What has he heard to turn against his son?”"]}, {"id": "C6.23.11", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “My son, I know", "Of no offense that could have vexed him so,"]}, {"id": "C6.23.12", "lines": ["Unless I taught the Faith in every land,", "And lit the sacred fires by my hand."]}, {"id": "C6.23.13", "lines": ["I cleansed the world with my victorious blade;", "What cause for anger could those deeds have made?"]}, {"id": "C6.23.14", "lines": ["The Div, in truth, must have seduced his heart;", "He seeks to bind me; reason plays no part.”"]}, {"id": "C6.23.15", "lines": ["While thus Esfandiyar spoke in his grief,", "Black dust arose, announcing the great chief."]}, {"id": "C6.23.16", "lines": ["Jamasp, the world’s bright lamp, now came to bring", "The prince the royal orders of the king."]}, {"id": "C6.23.17", "lines": ["The prince went out to meet him on the way;", "The two met face to face without delay."]}, {"id": "C6.23.18", "lines": ["They left their prancing steeds and walked; the two", "Thus paid each other all the honor due."]}, {"id": "C6.23.19", "lines": ["The glorious prince inquired, “How fares the king,", "The lord of crown and throne and signet ring?”"]}, {"id": "C6.23.20", "lines": ["The sage Jamasp replied, “He thrives in cheer,”", "Then kissed the prince’s head and drew him near."]}, {"id": "C6.23.21", "lines": ["He gave the letter, spoke the matter plain,", "And said, “The Div has clouded Goshtasb’s brain.”"]}, {"id": "C6.23.22", "lines": ["Esfandiyar then asked, “What should I do?", "What course would wisdom urge me to pursue?"]}, {"id": "C6.23.23", "lines": ["If I set out and answer to his call,", "My father will not treat me well at all."]}, {"id": "C6.23.24", "lines": ["Yet if I do not heed his stern command,", "I cease to be his servant in the land."]}, {"id": "C6.23.25", "lines": ["Devise some remedy and make it clear;", "We must not linger in confusion here.”"]}, {"id": "C6.23.26", "lines": ["The sage replied, “O prince of noble name,", "Young in your years, but old in wisdom’s flame,"]}, {"id": "C6.23.27", "lines": ["A father’s wrath is better, you must know,", "Than all the love his son could ever show."]}, {"id": "C6.23.28", "lines": ["Set out at once; whatever he may bring,", "You must remember: he is still the king.”"]}, {"id": "C6.23.29", "lines": ["They both agreed and turned back from that place,", "The messenger and prince of noble race."]}, {"id": "C6.23.30", "lines": ["He lodged Jamasp with honor as his guest;", "They both drank wine and took their welcome rest."]}, {"id": "C6.23.31", "lines": ["Before him fragrant aloeswood was burned,", "As if the art of pleasure could be learned."]}, {"id": "C6.23.32", "lines": ["Next day he sat upon his royal seat;", "His troops came forward there their prince to greet."]}, {"id": "C6.23.33", "lines": ["He gave to Bahman all his troops to lead,", "Then left with just a few men, as agreed."]}, {"id": "C6.23.34", "lines": ["He set out crowned, the royal belt he wore", "Made fast, and rode up to the great Shah’s door."]}, {"id": "C6.24.1", "lines": ["When news had reached the Shah, “Your son is here,”", "He bade the priests and nobles all appear."]}, {"id": "C6.24.2", "lines": ["He set the Zand-Avesta by his side,", "With all the chiefs assembled to decide."]}, {"id": "C6.24.3", "lines": ["He seated every Mobad in his place,", "Then summoned in the prince of royal race."]}, {"id": "C6.24.4", "lines": ["With Kayanian crown, he reached his father’s seat,", "And bowed in homage at the monarch’s feet."]}, {"id": "C6.24.5", "lines": ["He bowed before the throne in courtly show,", "With folded arms and head bent humbly low."]}, {"id": "C6.24.6", "lines": ["The king addressed the Mobadan, the great,", "The chiefs and nobles, men of rank and weight:"]}, {"id": "C6.24.7", "lines": ["“You nobles know the pains that fathers bear,", "The toil of raising sons with constant care."]}, {"id": "C6.24.8", "lines": ["A father has his infant nursed and fed,", "And sets a crown of gold upon his head."]}, {"id": "C6.24.9", "lines": ["He tends his growing son, stays by his side,", "To teach him how to eat and how to ride."]}, {"id": "C6.24.10", "lines": ["Through many hardships, he prepares his son", "For mounted fight till his training is done."]}, {"id": "C6.24.11", "lines": ["The boy grows into manhood and will shine", "Like yellow gold brought gleaming from the mine."]}, {"id": "C6.24.12", "lines": ["All seekers ask their favors from his hand,", "And every tongue gives praise throughout the land."]}, {"id": "C6.24.13", "lines": ["He proves a good, victorious rider, blessed", "To lead in feast and battle, first and best."]}, {"id": "C6.24.14", "lines": ["He sets the whole world underneath his feet,", "And well deserves the royal throne and seat."]}, {"id": "C6.24.15", "lines": ["The son has all the world at his command,", "The banner and the army in his hand."]}, {"id": "C6.24.16", "lines": ["The father keeps a crown, a throne, a hoard;", "He sits and guards the riches he has stored."]}, {"id": "C6.24.17", "lines": ["Suppose that heir, with troops and banners flown,", "Should grudge his father kingship and the throne."]}, {"id": "C6.24.18", "lines": ["Has anyone among you heard it said", "A son would seek to take his father’s head,"]}, {"id": "C6.24.19", "lines": ["And raise revolt with armies in his train,", "And set his heart on war for royal gain?"]}, {"id": "C6.24.20", "lines": ["What say you, elders? What should now be done?", "What course may fathers take with such a son?”"]}, {"id": "C6.24.21", "lines": ["The chosen chiefs replied, “O monarch, no;", "No living father should endure such woe."]}, {"id": "C6.24.22", "lines": ["A son who seeks his living father’s throne", "Shows folly greater than we yet have known.”"]}, {"id": "C6.24.23", "lines": ["The monarch said, “This son would seize my crown;", "He seeks his father’s place, to cast me down."]}, {"id": "C6.24.24", "lines": ["A wooden rod shall strike him at my word;", "Let all take warning when the tale is heard."]}, {"id": "C6.24.25", "lines": ["And I shall bind him as his deeds demand,", "As none was ever bound by human hand.”"]}, {"id": "C6.24.26", "lines": ["The son replied, “O Shah of noble heart,", "How could I wish to see your life depart?"]}, {"id": "C6.24.27", "lines": ["I know no wrong that I have done to you,", "Nor any secret treason I pursue."]}, {"id": "C6.24.28", "lines": ["But you are Shah, and judgment yours alone;", "I am yours; chains and prison are your own."]}, {"id": "C6.24.29", "lines": ["Command them: bind or slay me as you will;", "My heart is honest, and my mind is still.”"]}, {"id": "C6.24.30", "lines": ["The king of kings cried, “Bring the chains today;", "Bind him before the court without delay.”"]}, {"id": "C6.24.31", "lines": ["They brought the smiths with iron fetters grim,", "A yoke and heavy chain to shackle him."]}, {"id": "C6.24.32", "lines": ["They bound his hands and feet before them all;", "The court wept bitterly throughout the hall."]}, {"id": "C6.24.33", "lines": ["They set a chain about his neck, then led", "Him out, as Goshtasb’s royal order said."]}, {"id": "C6.24.34", "lines": ["“Bring me a bull elephant,” said the king,", "“One swift as any bird upon the wing.”"]}, {"id": "C6.24.35", "lines": ["They brought an elephant of midnight black,", "And placed Esfandiyar upon its back."]}, {"id": "C6.24.36", "lines": ["To Gombadan’s famed fortress he was sent;", "With tear-filled eyes and wounded heart he went."]}, {"id": "C6.24.37", "lines": ["Sepahbods hemmed him in as he was led,", "With some behind him, others at his head."]}, {"id": "C6.24.38", "lines": ["Within that mountain stronghold he was tied;", "Four iron columns held him there inside."]}, {"id": "C6.24.39", "lines": ["They cast him down from Fortune’s royal height;", "The Shah set guards to keep him in their sight."]}, {"id": "C6.24.40", "lines": ["There, bound and grieving, the brave warrior lay,", "And time and time again wept in dismay."]}, {"id": "C6.25.1", "lines": ["Thus many days he languished bound in chains,", "While Shah Goshtasb set out for Sistan’s plains."]}, {"id": "C6.25.2", "lines": ["He went to teach the Zand-Avesta’s creed,", "And give the Mobadan its charge to heed."]}, {"id": "C6.25.3", "lines": ["As soon as that illustrious Shah drew near,", "The army’s champion came with welcome cheer:"]}, {"id": "C6.25.4", "lines": ["Nimruz’s ruler, Rostam, famed in fight,", "A seasoned rider, Sahm’s equal in might,"]}, {"id": "C6.25.5", "lines": ["Came with his father Zal, advanced in years,", "With mighty men and courtiers as his peers."]}, {"id": "C6.25.6", "lines": ["They brought their minstrels in the welcoming train,", "With rud and karnay sounding their refrain."]}, {"id": "C6.25.7", "lines": ["Thus they came forth to greet the glorious king;", "Their joyful welcome made his spirits sing."]}, {"id": "C6.25.8", "lines": ["They brought him into Zabul as their guest,", "And stood before him, each at his behest."]}, {"id": "C6.25.9", "lines": ["They learned the Zand and tied the kusti tight,", "Then set the sacred fire itself alight."]}, {"id": "C6.25.10", "lines": ["Two years they passed in honor, feast, and grace;", "Goshtasb stayed with Rostam in that place."]}, {"id": "C6.25.11", "lines": ["Through all the world, wherever kings took heed,", "They spoke of Goshtasb’s shameful, reckless deed:"]}, {"id": "C6.25.12", "lines": ["“He bound Esfandiyar in chains of steel,", "Whose bite his elephantine frame must feel."]}, {"id": "C6.25.13", "lines": ["He went to preach in Zabul and proclaim", "A curse on Azar’s idol in Faith’s name.”"]}, {"id": "C6.25.14", "lines": ["Then every king renounced the Shah’s command,", "And broke allegiance throughout every land."]}, {"id": "C6.25.15", "lines": ["When Bahman heard his father lay in chains,", "He mourned his guiltless father’s bitter pains."]}, {"id": "C6.25.16", "lines": ["The princes left the troops and journeyed far,", "To reach the prison of Esfandiyar."]}, {"id": "C6.25.17", "lines": ["He came to him with Kayanian princes near,", "Full of distress, anxiety, and fear."]}, {"id": "C6.25.18", "lines": ["They comforted their father, overthrown,", "And would not leave him in his cell alone."]}, {"id": "C6.25.19", "lines": ["Then to the king of Chin the news came fast:", "“The Moon from Bow to ambush now has passed."]}, {"id": "C6.25.20", "lines": ["The Shah, enraged with Prince Esfandiyar,", "Sent him dishonored into prison far."]}, {"id": "C6.25.21", "lines": ["He crossed the desert and the Jihun’s flow;", "From Balkh to Zabul did the monarch go."]}, {"id": "C6.25.22", "lines": ["At Zabul he has stayed as guest of Zal,", "And feasted there for two years in his hall."]}, {"id": "C6.25.23", "lines": ["Lohrasp remains in Balkh, with none to fight", "Except the men who serve the sacred light:"]}, {"id": "C6.25.24", "lines": ["Seven hundred, with their hands raised to the flame,", "Are all the men of note that we can name."]}, {"id": "C6.25.25", "lines": ["The guards of Homahyi’s palace also stay;", "Rise now! Make haste, and put aside delay.”"]}, {"id": "C6.25.26", "lines": ["The king of Chigil called his chiefs to hear;", "To fight Lohrasp, he gave them words of cheer."]}, {"id": "C6.25.27", "lines": ["He said, “Know this: Goshtasb has gone; his train", "Of troops is in Sistan, where they remain."]}, {"id": "C6.25.28", "lines": ["He stays in Zabul; all the realm is left", "Of every rider, of its guards bereft."]}, {"id": "C6.25.29", "lines": ["Now is the time for vengeance; give command", "To muster all our forces through the land."]}, {"id": "C6.25.30", "lines": ["His son Esfandiyar, renowned and bright,", "Lies fast in heavy bonds, far from the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.25.31", "lines": ["Who will seek out their secrets and report,", "And make the long, hard journey from our court?"]}, {"id": "C6.25.32", "lines": ["Let him avoid the roads and seek to learn", "Of Iran’s people, then to us return.”"]}, {"id": "C6.25.33", "lines": ["A sorcerer named Situh then drew near,", "A rover, spy, and scout without a peer."]}, {"id": "C6.25.34", "lines": ["He said, “I am a careful guide; tell me", "What task you wish, whatever it may be.”"]}, {"id": "C6.25.35", "lines": ["The king said, “Go to Iran; scout it out,", "And wisely look at all that lies about.”"]}, {"id": "C6.25.36", "lines": ["The spy set forth upon his secret way,", "And reached illustrious Balkh without delay."]}, {"id": "C6.25.37", "lines": ["He found no Goshtasb there, but saw the band", "Of worshippers, with Lohrasp in that land."]}, {"id": "C6.25.38", "lines": ["He went back to the Khan, and there revealed", "All he had learned of matters kept concealed."]}, {"id": "C6.25.39", "lines": ["The news made Arjasp glad, and it relieved", "The ancient grief for which he long had grieved."]}, {"id": "C6.25.40", "lines": ["He called his chiefs and said, “Go out and bring", "Our scattered troops together for their king.”"]}, {"id": "C6.25.41", "lines": ["Through mountain, desert, pasture went the call,", "And chosen horsemen gathered one and all."]}, {"id": "C6.26.1", "lines": ["When this old story reached me from the past,", "Toward the fish my fishing hook was cast."]}, {"id": "C6.26.2", "lines": ["I scanned his verses; many lines were weak;", "Their language lacked the polish I would seek."]}, {"id": "C6.26.3", "lines": ["Yet I transcribed them here, that kings may know", "How roughened verses sound beside my flow."]}, {"id": "C6.26.4", "lines": ["Two jewelers bring their gems before the throne;", "The Shah must judge the light of every stone."]}, {"id": "C6.26.5", "lines": ["If you can climb no higher than his strain,", "Then hold your tongue and spare yourself the pain."]}, {"id": "C6.26.6", "lines": ["Why wear your body out and bind your mind", "To mines with not a single gem to find?"]}, {"id": "C6.26.7", "lines": ["Unless your speech runs fluent as a stream,", "Do not embark upon this royal theme."]}, {"id": "C6.26.8", "lines": ["Better by far that no feast board be spread", "Than offer tasteless fare in place of bread."]}, {"id": "C6.26.9", "lines": ["A book of ancient legends met my view,", "Its words were full of wisdom, tried and true."]}, {"id": "C6.26.10", "lines": ["Its tales were ancient, written out in prose;", "No poet yet had rhymed the tales it shows."]}, {"id": "C6.26.11", "lines": ["No one had joined its lines in measured art;", "The thought weighed on my once rejoicing heart."]}, {"id": "C6.26.12", "lines": ["That ancient book was two millennia old,", "If all its years were counted out and told."]}, {"id": "C6.26.13", "lines": ["I then began to praise that pioneer,", "Who made the path from prose to verse appear."]}, {"id": "C6.26.14", "lines": ["Though little of the whole was brought to light,", "One part in thousands told of feast and fight."]}, {"id": "C6.26.15", "lines": ["He was my pioneer, and he had shown", "The way to set a monarch on the throne."]}, {"id": "C6.26.16", "lines": ["From nobles he received reward and fame;", "His own bad temper kept his grief aflame."]}, {"id": "C6.26.17", "lines": ["His task had been to praise the kingly line,", "And make the princes’ names in poems shine."]}, {"id": "C6.26.18", "lines": ["And yet his verse possessed no living flame;", "The ancient tale stayed aged and the same."]}, {"id": "C6.26.19", "lines": ["I took the tale itself as Fortune’s sign;", "For many years the labor all was mine."]}, {"id": "C6.26.20", "lines": ["Yet I could find no patron of my own", "To bring new luster to the ancient throne."]}, {"id": "C6.26.21", "lines": ["This caused me much disquiet and regret,", "But silence was the only cure I met."]}, {"id": "C6.26.22", "lines": ["I saw a garden, full of trees, a scene,", "A home for happy people, fair and green."]}, {"id": "C6.26.23", "lines": ["No gate appeared; no entrance could be found;", "With one king’s name the garden must be crowned."]}, {"id": "C6.26.24", "lines": ["A gate must suit the garden in its span;", "A narrow one would never fit the plan."]}, {"id": "C6.26.25", "lines": ["For twenty years I held it close and dear,", "Until a worthy patron should appear."]}, {"id": "C6.26.26", "lines": ["At last came Mahmud, master of the earth,", "Endowed with grace and overflowing worth:"]}, {"id": "C6.26.27", "lines": ["Abul-Qasim, who gives the crown new light;", "The moon and Kayvan bow before his might."]}, {"id": "C6.26.28", "lines": ["He came and sat upon the royal throne;", "No king to match his justice had been known."]}, {"id": "C6.26.29", "lines": ["His name now crowns my book; his farr, a spark,", "Made ivory and bright my heart, once dark."]}, {"id": "C6.26.30", "lines": ["In gifts and justice, farr and skill, his fame", "Was such that none before could match his name."]}, {"id": "C6.26.31", "lines": ["He surpassed every Shah who ruled before;", "Men prized their ancient stories now no more."]}, {"id": "C6.26.32", "lines": ["Gold coins are dust to him; no fear can stay", "His hand in feast or battle’s stern array."]}, {"id": "C6.26.33", "lines": ["He withholds nothing from the one who seeks;", "In war his sword strikes, and at feast gold speaks."]}, {"id": "C6.27.1", "lines": ["Our tale of Arjasp’s war we now restore,", "And clear the garden’s weeds from root to core."]}, {"id": "C6.27.2", "lines": ["He gave command that Kuhram, sword in hand,", "Should lead the army toward Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "C6.27.3", "lines": ["For Kuhram, his strong eldest son, held high", "His head toward the bright sun in the sky."]}, {"id": "C6.27.4", "lines": ["Arjasp said, “Choose riders from the field,", "War-worthy men who do not break or yield."]}, {"id": "C6.27.5", "lines": ["Make haste to Balkh, whose name has darkened all", "Our days and turned our hopes to bitter gall."]}, {"id": "C6.27.6", "lines": ["Those worshippers of Fire, our foes of old, ", "Those fiends who spurn the gods our fathers hold—"]}, {"id": "C6.27.7", "lines": ["Cut off their heads, set every hall alight, ", "And turn their shining day to darkest night."]}, {"id": "C6.27.8", "lines": ["Let smoke from great Goshtasb’s high palace rise,", "And lick with flame the azure of the skies."]}, {"id": "C6.27.9", "lines": ["If you should find Esfandiyar in pain,", "His feet in iron fetters, bound with chain,"]}, {"id": "C6.27.10", "lines": ["Then end him there; divide his head and frame,", "And make the world resound with Kuhram’s name."]}, {"id": "C6.27.11", "lines": ["Throughout Iran, its cities wait your tread;", "You are the sword; the foe its sheath,” he said."]}, {"id": "C6.27.12", "lines": ["“From fair Khallokh I march without delay,", "And follow fast to join you on the way."]}, {"id": "C6.27.13", "lines": ["I shall recall our troops from every side,", "And pour my hoarded treasure far and wide.”"]}, {"id": "C6.27.14", "lines": ["Kuhram replied, “Your bidding I will do,", "And pledge my life to carry all things through.”"]}, {"id": "C6.27.15", "lines": ["When from its waist the sun drew forth its blade,", "Night fled before the brightness it displayed."]}, {"id": "C6.27.16", "lines": ["Choice horsemen and their swordsmen filled the plain;", "Kuhram led forth the force to Iran’s domain."]}, {"id": "C6.27.17", "lines": ["The earth grew dark as storm-clouds gathering low,", "As marching dust made daylight sink below."]}, {"id": "C6.27.18", "lines": ["He reached the frontier, where his ruthless hand", "Shed blood of God’s own servants through the land."]}, {"id": "C6.27.19", "lines": ["The Turks, all full of vengeance, came prepared", "To kill and plunder; wrath within them flared."]}, {"id": "C6.27.20", "lines": ["As they drew near to Balkh, they spoke with gall;", "Lohrasp heard Kuhram’s name and grieved for all."]}, {"id": "C6.27.21", "lines": ["In anguish then he prayed, “O Lord of power,", "Your wise word rules time’s turns and every hour."]}, {"id": "C6.27.22", "lines": ["You, wise, enduring Master of the sun,", "Preserve my Faith until my days are done."]}, {"id": "C6.27.23", "lines": ["Preserve my person, strength, and watchful heart,", "My mind and judgment, each devoted part;"]}, {"id": "C6.27.24", "lines": ["Let not Your servant perish by their hand;", "You are my help, the strength by which I stand.”"]}, {"id": "C6.27.25", "lines": ["In Balkh no chief or gorz-armed horseman stayed;", "A thousand from the market came to aid."]}, {"id": "C6.27.26", "lines": ["But none was fit for war. Lohrasp then drew", "His jowshan on; the Turks came into view."]}, {"id": "C6.27.27", "lines": ["He left his place of prayer with armored tread,", "The Kayanian helmet there on his head."]}, {"id": "C6.27.28", "lines": ["Though old, he roared with elephantine force,", "And charged against the foe upon his horse."]}, {"id": "C6.27.29", "lines": ["An ox-head gorz was heavy in his hand;", "Each charge struck down more chieftains from the band."]}, {"id": "C6.27.30", "lines": ["They cried, “This warrior’s force in battle here", "Is like Esfandiyar’s, whom all men fear.”"]}, {"id": "C6.27.31", "lines": ["Wherever he spurred, dust mingled red with gore;", "Men’s courage broke on hearing his great roar."]}, {"id": "C6.27.32", "lines": ["Kuhram cried, “Do not meet him man by man;", "Surround him now, and roar as lions can."]}, {"id": "C6.27.33", "lines": ["Let all your strength press in from every side;", "Together bring him down in all his pride.”"]}, {"id": "C6.27.34", "lines": ["Then axes clashed and cries rang through the field;", "Each warrior pressed him, eager not to yield."]}, {"id": "C6.27.35", "lines": ["Lohrasp, now helpless in the hostile ring,", "Called on God’s name, that old and faithful king."]}, {"id": "C6.27.36", "lines": ["Old age and burning sun oppressed his breath;", "His Fortune slept and drew him down to death."]}, {"id": "C6.27.37", "lines": ["That veteran worshipper of God fell low,", "As Turkish arrows dealt the fatal blow."]}, {"id": "C6.27.38", "lines": ["His crowned head fell to earth, and all around", "The horsemen gathered where he struck the ground."]}, {"id": "C6.27.39", "lines": ["They slashed his armor, tore his flesh away,", "And hacked his body where the monarch lay."]}, {"id": "C6.27.40", "lines": ["They thought a youthful rider lay there dead,", "Until they raised the helmet from his head."]}, {"id": "C6.27.41", "lines": ["His hair was camphor-white; his face, once bright,", "Was blackened by the iron blows of fight."]}, {"id": "C6.27.42", "lines": ["“To think,” they cried, “a man so old could wield", "The sword with youthful strength upon the field!"]}, {"id": "C6.27.43", "lines": ["Had Prince Esfandiyar himself been here,", "Our force would face a bitter trial, I fear."]}, {"id": "C6.27.44", "lines": ["Why did we come with such a scattered few,", "Like beasts that leave the herd for pastures new?”"]}, {"id": "C6.27.45", "lines": ["Then Kuhram said, “Our hardest fight is done;", "That struggle was the fiercest we have won."]}, {"id": "C6.27.46", "lines": ["This was Lohrasp, Goshtasb’s father, slain;", "God’s farr had graced him through his royal reign."]}, {"id": "C6.27.47", "lines": ["He passed his life in banquet and in field,", "Then gave up crown and throne; to God he kneeled."]}, {"id": "C6.27.48", "lines": ["Goshtasb has lost his strength, his royal stay;", "His crown will tremble from this very day.”"]}, {"id": "C6.27.49", "lines": ["The troops reached Balkh, where slaughter spread its blight;", "With killing, plunder, all grew dark as night."]}, {"id": "C6.27.50", "lines": ["They turned toward the temple of the flame,", "And to its gold-adorned halls they came."]}, {"id": "C6.27.51", "lines": ["They burned the Zand-Avesta in the fire,", "And took the richest spoils they could desire."]}, {"id": "C6.27.52", "lines": ["They found there eighty priests in prayer and praise,", "And slaughtered all before the sacred blaze."]}, {"id": "C6.27.53", "lines": ["Their blood put out Zardosht’s fire where it spilled;", "I do not know by whom that priest was killed."]}, {"id": "C6.28.1", "lines": ["Goshtasb possessed a wife, both wise and high,", "Prudent in counsel, keen of heart and eye."]}, {"id": "C6.28.2", "lines": ["She dressed herself in Turkish garb, a ruse,", "And took the swiftest steed that she could choose."]}, {"id": "C6.28.3", "lines": ["She left the palace, struck with grief and fear,", "And rode toward Sistan with the tidings clear."]}, {"id": "C6.28.4", "lines": ["At no stage did she pause for sleep or rest;", "Along two days’ long road she onward pressed."]}, {"id": "C6.28.5", "lines": ["So on she went until Goshtasb she found,", "And told him Lohrasp’s fate with grief profound."]}, {"id": "C6.28.6", "lines": ["She said, “Why have you lingered here so long?", "Why leave famed Balkh exposed to grief and wrong?"]}, {"id": "C6.28.7", "lines": ["An army from Turan has reached the town,", "And turned its people’s bright day upside down."]}, {"id": "C6.28.8", "lines": ["All Balkh is filled with plunder, death, and cries;", "Return at once, O king, and swiftly rise.”"]}, {"id": "C6.28.9", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “What grief is this you bring?", "Why mourn one raid as such a grievous thing?"]}, {"id": "C6.28.10", "lines": ["When I march forth, all Chin will fail to stand", "Before my crown, my troops, my royal hand.”"]}, {"id": "C6.28.11", "lines": ["She answered, “Do not call this matter small;", "A darker blow has fallen on us all."]}, {"id": "C6.28.12", "lines": ["The Turks struck down Lohrasp, the king of kings,", "And grief has dimmed the light that fortune brings."]}, {"id": "C6.28.13", "lines": ["They stormed the shrine of Nush Azar in wrath,", "And slew the chiefs and priests across their path."]}, {"id": "C6.28.14", "lines": ["Their blood put out the Fire’s once-shining light;", "This outrage cannot be accounted slight."]}, {"id": "C6.28.15", "lines": ["They led your daughters from the city, chained;", "Do not treat lightly what the foe has gained."]}, {"id": "C6.28.16", "lines": ["Had only fair Homahyi met disgrace,", "A sage would quake, his anguish in his face."]}, {"id": "C6.28.17", "lines": ["And Bih Afrid, your other daughter fair,", "Once hidden from the very breath of air,"]}, {"id": "C6.28.18", "lines": ["They dragged her from her golden throne that day,", "And stripped her crown and bracelets all away.”"]}, {"id": "C6.28.19", "lines": ["Goshtasb, on hearing this, was filled with pain,", "His lashes shedding yellow blood like rain."]}, {"id": "C6.28.20", "lines": ["He called the great men of Iran to hear,", "And told them all the tidings, dark and clear."]}, {"id": "C6.28.21", "lines": ["He called a scribe, put crown and throne aside,", "And sent his horsemen outward far and wide."]}, {"id": "C6.28.22", "lines": ["He wrote his Pahlevans, “Do not wash clay", "From head or hair; let nothing bar your way."]}, {"id": "C6.28.23", "lines": ["Let neither heights nor hollows turn you back;", "Come swiftly over every hill and track.”"]}, {"id": "C6.28.24", "lines": ["They bore the letter out through every plain,", "To every mighty man in his domain."]}, {"id": "C6.28.25", "lines": ["The warriors came, their Roman helmets bright,", "With gorzes, gathered for the coming fight."]}, {"id": "C6.28.26", "lines": ["He gave them pay and marched from Sistan’s land,", "And took the road to Balkh with force in hand."]}, {"id": "C6.28.27", "lines": ["Arjasp then heard that Shah Goshtasb drew near,", "With crown and troops in armor, spear to spear."]}, {"id": "C6.28.28", "lines": ["He gathered from Turan so vast a force", "That sun and moon grew dark along its course."]}, {"id": "C6.28.29", "lines": ["From sea to sea that army stretched in pride;", "No open ground lay bare on either side."]}, {"id": "C6.28.30", "lines": ["And when the dust-clouds of the armies met,", "The earth grew dark; the sun appeared to set."]}, {"id": "C6.28.31", "lines": ["Both armies formed their lines across the plain,", "With swords and spears and javelins in their train."]}, {"id": "C6.28.32", "lines": ["Upon Iran’s right side stood Farshidvard,", "A prince whose sword struck lions fierce and hard."]}, {"id": "C6.28.33", "lines": ["Upon the left stood Nastur, battle-tried,", "His courage overflowing like a tide."]}, {"id": "C6.28.34", "lines": ["Goshtasb, the monarch, held the center’s ground,", "And watched his warriors ranged in order round."]}, {"id": "C6.28.35", "lines": ["Kundur was posted on the Turkish right,", "His baggage train behind him for the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.28.36", "lines": ["Kuhram, the swordsman, held the left in flame;", "Arjasp stood central with his men of name."]}, {"id": "C6.28.37", "lines": ["Karnay and tabira’s din from both sides rose;", "Earth turned to iron under charging foes."]}, {"id": "C6.28.38", "lines": ["The air grew black beneath the battle’s might;", "The heavens seemed about to take their flight."]}, {"id": "C6.28.39", "lines": ["Earth cracked beneath the weight; the horses’ cries", "And axe-blows made the mountains seem to rise."]}, {"id": "C6.28.40", "lines": ["The field was strewn with heads upon the ground;", "The gorz-men’s shattered skulls lay all around."]}, {"id": "C6.28.41", "lines": ["The headless bodies lay across the clay;", "Swords flashed, and arrows darkened all the day."]}, {"id": "C6.28.42", "lines": ["The heroes shouted wildly through the fight;", "The stars themselves seemed eager to take flight."]}, {"id": "C6.28.43", "lines": ["No warrior spared his life; the weapons bent;", "Both spear and gorz beneath the blows they sent."]}, {"id": "C6.28.44", "lines": ["Beneath the horses many lay in blood;", "A lion’s breast their shroud amid that flood."]}, {"id": "C6.28.45", "lines": ["Their coffin was the blood in which they lay;", "Like foaming elephants, men fought their way."]}, {"id": "C6.28.46", "lines": ["No father had the time to mourn his son;", "For three days and three nights the war-wheels spun."]}, {"id": "C6.28.47", "lines": ["So thick the blood surged through that field of fight,", "It turned the moon’s face ruby-red that night."]}, {"id": "C6.28.48", "lines": ["Then Farshidvard strove lion-like in strife,", "Till Kuhram struck and almost took his life."]}, {"id": "C6.28.49", "lines": ["So many of Iran’s brave fighters died;", "Their blood soaked all the country far and wide."]}, {"id": "C6.28.50", "lines": ["Goshtasb’s own thirty-eight bold sons fell low;", "The Shah’s good fortune sank beneath the blow."]}, {"id": "C6.29.1", "lines": ["At last, when Fortune turned so harsh and grim,", "Goshtasb fled, with Arjasp chasing him."]}, {"id": "C6.29.2", "lines": ["They chased him for two stages on his way,", "Intent to seize him, pressing on their prey."]}, {"id": "C6.29.3", "lines": ["Before him rose a green and lovely hill;", "A spring flowed through it; on it stood a mill."]}, {"id": "C6.29.4", "lines": ["One path wound round the mountain, steep and lone;", "Its course to Shah Goshtasb was well known."]}, {"id": "C6.29.5", "lines": ["That path alone led to the mountain height;", "He climbed with broken troops in desperate plight."]}, {"id": "C6.29.6", "lines": ["He left a force behind to guard the road,", "While toward the heights his beaten army strode."]}, {"id": "C6.29.7", "lines": ["Arjasp arrived and ringed him with his men,", "But found no road to climb the mountain then."]}, {"id": "C6.29.8", "lines": ["They laid their siege around the mountainside;", "The Shah was trapped, with no resource or guide."]}, {"id": "C6.29.9", "lines": ["His troops lit fires amid their deep despair,", "And burned what thorns and brushwood they could tear."]}, {"id": "C6.29.10", "lines": ["Each leader killed a steed in their sad state,", "And pondered helplessly their bitter fate."]}, {"id": "C6.29.11", "lines": ["The Shah laid hand on head in deep dismay,", "And called Jamasp to find some saving way."]}, {"id": "C6.29.12", "lines": ["He spoke at length about the stars, and said,", "“Declare what Heaven has written overhead."]}, {"id": "C6.29.13", "lines": ["Tell all you know; say neither more nor less:", "Who comes to help me in this great distress?”"]}, {"id": "C6.29.14", "lines": ["Jamasp arose and answered, “Righteous king,", "Trust Heaven’s turning and the truth I bring."]}, {"id": "C6.29.15", "lines": ["If you will hear me and believe me true,", "I shall reveal all that I know to you.”"]}, {"id": "C6.29.16", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Whatever secrets lie", "Within your knowledge, speak; do not deny."]}, {"id": "C6.29.17", "lines": ["Though my head grazed the clouds that crown the sky,", "The turn of Heaven I could not defy.”"]}, {"id": "C6.29.18", "lines": ["Jamasp replied, “O Shah, give me your ear;", "Hear now the word that wisdom makes most clear."]}, {"id": "C6.29.19", "lines": ["Esfandiyar the glorious, by your will,", "Wears chains today and suffers evil still."]}, {"id": "C6.29.20", "lines": ["If he were freed from fetter, guard, and chain,", "The Shah would not be stranded here in pain.”"]}, {"id": "C6.29.21", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “Wise counselor of worth,", "A man of truth, the wisest on the earth,"]}, {"id": "C6.29.22", "lines": ["I bound him in my court, though free of blame,", "And followed words that slandered his good name."]}, {"id": "C6.29.23", "lines": ["At once remorse took hold; I sought to cure", "The wound my heart could scarcely now endure."]}, {"id": "C6.29.24", "lines": ["I bound him guiltless, to my heart’s despair,", "Deceived by Gurazm’s false and slanderous snare."]}, {"id": "C6.29.25", "lines": ["If I behold him here, I shall step down,", "And yield my throne, my royal cap and crown."]}, {"id": "C6.29.26", "lines": ["But who will dare to go to that loved one,", "And loose the guiltless prisoner, my son?”"]}, {"id": "C6.29.27", "lines": ["Jamasp replied, “O king, the hour is grave;", "I shall go forth and strive the realm to save.”"]}, {"id": "C6.29.28", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “May wisdom light your way,", "And be your true companion every day."]}, {"id": "C6.29.29", "lines": ["Go in the night, and greet him in my name;", "We wronged him, though he bore no trace of blame:"]}, {"id": "C6.29.30", "lines": ["‘The man who wronged you now has breathed his last;", "With sorrow in his heart, his life has passed."]}, {"id": "C6.29.31", "lines": ["I followed what that foolish man desired,", "Whose counsel little wisdom had inspired."]}, {"id": "C6.29.32", "lines": ["I did you wrong, and anguish wrings me still;", "I mean to make amends for all that ill."]}, {"id": "C6.29.33", "lines": ["If you put vengeance from your heart aside,", "Come, grind our enemies beneath your stride."]}, {"id": "C6.29.34", "lines": ["For otherwise the realm and throne must fall,", "Our Kayanian Tree torn up, roots and all."]}, {"id": "C6.29.35", "lines": ["Then I will grant you crown and treasure-store,", "The wealth I toiled to gather years before."]}, {"id": "C6.29.36", "lines": ["God and wise Jamasp witness what I vow;", "His counsel guides the course I follow now.’”"]}, {"id": "C6.29.37", "lines": ["Jamasp put on a robe in Turan’s mode,", "And left the heights with no guide on the road."]}, {"id": "C6.29.38", "lines": ["The sage descended to the plain below,", "And crossed by night the army of the foe."]}, {"id": "C6.29.39", "lines": ["Like wind, to Gombadan’s stronghold he sped;", "He shunned the wicked and the snare they spread."]}, {"id": "C6.30.1", "lines": ["One of Esfandiyar’s exalted sons,", "Nush Azar, watched the walls for hostile ones."]}, {"id": "C6.30.2", "lines": ["He watched for riders from Iran’s own side,", "To learn what tidings came with those who ride."]}, {"id": "C6.30.3", "lines": ["He watched to tell his father who drew near;", "Before long, he saw someone there appear."]}, {"id": "C6.30.4", "lines": ["When he perceived Jamasp upon the way,", "A dark Turanian cap on full display,"]}, {"id": "C6.30.5", "lines": ["He said, “A horseman comes from Turkish ground;", "I shall go tell my father what I found.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.6", "lines": ["He hastened downward from the fortress wall,", "And came before the prince to tell him all."]}, {"id": "C6.30.7", "lines": ["He said, “Great noble, I have seen afar", "A horseman riding where the watchmen are."]}, {"id": "C6.30.8", "lines": ["A sable cap is set upon his head;", "I shall learn by whose word this man was led,"]}, {"id": "C6.30.9", "lines": ["Or whether Arjasp’s hatred lights his eyes;", "If he is Turkish, death before him lies."]}, {"id": "C6.30.10", "lines": ["I shall strike off his head with one fierce thrust,", "And fling his worthless body in the dust.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.11", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “Why such dismay?", "Have riders never passed along this way?"]}, {"id": "C6.30.12", "lines": ["In truth he is a warrior from our land,", "And brings my father’s message by command."]}, {"id": "C6.30.13", "lines": ["My father placed that cap upon his head", "Through fear of foes whose watches round him spread.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.14", "lines": ["When Nush Azar had heard his father’s word,", "He went back to the wall, alert and stirred."]}, {"id": "C6.30.15", "lines": ["He knew Jamasp as he approached the wall,", "Then hurried down to seek the prince’s hall."]}, {"id": "C6.30.16", "lines": ["He told his glorious father, “At the gate", "Jamasp has come; he stands outside to wait.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.17", "lines": ["Esfandiyar said, “Let him enter now.”", "The sage came in and made a courtly bow."]}, {"id": "C6.30.18", "lines": ["Before Esfandiyar he took his place,", "And gave Goshtasb’s full message face to face."]}, {"id": "C6.30.19", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “O memory bright", "Of wisdom, honored for your keen insight,"]}, {"id": "C6.30.20", "lines": ["Exalted man of fearless heart and mind,", "Why bow to one whom chains and irons bind?"]}, {"id": "C6.30.21", "lines": ["A man whose hands and feet are bound this way", "Seems Ahriman, no man of flesh and clay."]}, {"id": "C6.30.22", "lines": ["You bring me greetings from the king of kings;", "What wisdom prompts you to say such things?"]}, {"id": "C6.30.23", "lines": ["Arjasp has sent his greeting to this land;", "Iranian blood now stains his murderous hand."]}, {"id": "C6.30.24", "lines": ["Though guiltless, I was bound and cast away;", "Gurazm must be the Shah’s own son today."]}, {"id": "C6.30.25", "lines": ["Let me stay bound; these irons testify", "Before Yazdan of earth and starry sky."]}, {"id": "C6.30.26", "lines": ["Goshtasb wronged me through Gurazm’s evil word;", "Ahriman smiled at what that slander stirred."]}, {"id": "C6.30.27", "lines": ["Such was the recompense my labors earned;", "My treasure into iron has been turned."]}, {"id": "C6.30.28", "lines": ["May memory of this suffering remain,", "Nor let your words make my own judgment wane.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.29", "lines": ["Jamasp replied, “Wise prince, your words ring true;", "All marvel at the mighty deeds you do."]}, {"id": "C6.30.30", "lines": ["Though anger at your father fills your heart,", "His throne and realm are nearly torn apart."]}, {"id": "C6.30.31", "lines": ["Yet think of pious Lohrasp, struck down low;", "Let sorrow arm your heart against the foe."]}, {"id": "C6.30.32", "lines": ["And mourn the priests, God-fearing men of worth,", "Whose blood has stained the temple and the earth,"]}, {"id": "C6.30.33", "lines": ["Who chanted prayers, with barsom in their hands,", "And fell beneath the swords of hostile bands."]}, {"id": "C6.30.34", "lines": ["Eighty Mobadan, sages pure of heart,", "Were slaughtered where they kept the sacred art."]}, {"id": "C6.30.35", "lines": ["The Fire died within the sacred shrine,", "Drowned in their blood at holy Faith’s decline."]}, {"id": "C6.30.36", "lines": ["Such evil deeds cannot be counted small;", "Grow pale with grief and rise for Lohrasp’s fall."]}, {"id": "C6.30.37", "lines": ["If you refuse to stir for those they slew,", "The Guide will never give his praise to you.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.38", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, his manner stern,", "“O wise Jamasp, whose words with wisdom burn,"]}, {"id": "C6.30.39", "lines": ["Think well: Lohrasp was pious, old and just;", "Goshtasb’s own father now lies in the dust."]}, {"id": "C6.30.40", "lines": ["He passed his throne and customs to his son;", "Let Goshtasb seek revenge for what was done.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.41", "lines": ["Jamasp replied, “If vengeance has no place", "Within your heart, it lacks a noble grace."]}, {"id": "C6.30.42", "lines": ["Fair Homahyi and Bih Afrid now stand", "As captives, full of grief, in Turkish land."]}, {"id": "C6.30.43", "lines": ["Their faces no wind’s breath had ever known;", "Driven on foot, how pale their cheeks have grown!”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.44", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “Did Homahyi bright", "Remember me in chains by day or night?"]}, {"id": "C6.30.45", "lines": ["And noble Bih Afrid, of high degree,", "Had scarcely cast a single thought on me.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.46", "lines": ["Jamasp replied, “O mighty man of war,", "Your father’s soul is wounded to the core."]}, {"id": "C6.30.47", "lines": ["He and his chiefs are on the mountain’s crest;", "He weeps and cannot eat, so sore distressed."]}, {"id": "C6.30.48", "lines": ["The Turks now hem him in on every side;", "His crown and throne can scarcely long abide."]}, {"id": "C6.30.49", "lines": ["The Maker will condemn the course you choose,", "If faith and love are bonds that you refuse."]}, {"id": "C6.30.50", "lines": ["Your thirty-eight brave brothers, fierce and bold,", "Were lions of the field in days of old."]}, {"id": "C6.30.51", "lines": ["They all lie now in dust and blood and clay;", "The foe let none escape that bitter day.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.52", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “I once had brothers,", "Brave, noble-hearted, dear beyond all others."]}, {"id": "C6.30.53", "lines": ["Yet while I lay in chains, they feasted on;", "No one remembered me till they were gone."]}, {"id": "C6.30.54", "lines": ["What use is vengeance now? Their lives are smoke,", "Destroyed beneath the cruel enemy’s stroke.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.55", "lines": ["Jamasp heard this, his heart consumed by grief,", "And burned with sorrow, finding no relief."]}, {"id": "C6.30.56", "lines": ["He stood in wrath, and as his tears were shed,", "He pleaded with the chief again, and said:"]}, {"id": "C6.30.57", "lines": ["“O Pahlevan, though grief has made you blind,", "What of Farshidvard, loyal, brave, and kind?"]}, {"id": "C6.30.58", "lines": ["He suffered bitterly on your account;", "In feast and fight his grief would always mount."]}, {"id": "C6.30.59", "lines": ["Wherever he stood, in battle or in hall,", "He cursed Gurazm as source of every fall."]}, {"id": "C6.30.60", "lines": ["I saw his body slashed by scimitars;", "His helm and zereh split with battle scars."]}, {"id": "C6.30.61", "lines": ["My life is torn with grief at what I saw;", "Have pity on these eyes, with weeping raw.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.62", "lines": ["When Farshidvard was named, the prince wept blood;", "His heart was struck as by a burning flood."]}, {"id": "C6.30.63", "lines": ["He cried, “O valiant prince, so sorely tried,", "O lion-hearted chief, my joy and pride,"]}, {"id": "C6.30.64", "lines": ["Those wounds of yours are wounds that I have borne;", "My cheeks are bathed in heart’s blood as I mourn.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.65", "lines": ["When he grew calm, he asked, “Why was I told", "Nothing of this, while I lay in this hold?"]}, {"id": "C6.30.66", "lines": ["Give order: bring the blacksmiths to my seat,", "And let them file these fetters from my feet.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.67", "lines": ["Jamasp brought smiths; they came when he had called,", "With heavy hammers, a steel anvil hauled."]}, {"id": "C6.30.68", "lines": ["They filed the chains and rivets, hard and long,", "The Roman fetters, like a bridge, so strong."]}, {"id": "C6.30.69", "lines": ["The work dragged on; the captive’s anger grew,", "And all his former calmness vanished too."]}, {"id": "C6.30.70", "lines": ["He cried, “Shame on your hands! You bind men tight,", "But cannot break their bonds with all your might.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.71", "lines": ["He twisted, sprang upright, and stretched his hand", "Down to his feet to seize the iron band."]}, {"id": "C6.30.72", "lines": ["He strained with feet and hands through sudden pain,", "And broke to pieces fetter, ring, and chain."]}, {"id": "C6.30.73", "lines": ["His strength gave out; he fell upon the ground,", "Unconscious from the pain, his limbs unbound."]}, {"id": "C6.30.74", "lines": ["Jamasp, who read the stars, gave praise again,", "Amazed to see such power in mortal men."]}, {"id": "C6.30.75", "lines": ["Awake, he set the chains before his sight:", "“These gifts of Gurazm serve in feast and fight.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.76", "lines": ["He bathed his aching body, worn and sore,", "The iron’s weight a burden borne no more."]}, {"id": "C6.30.77", "lines": ["He called for royal armor, helm and blade,", "His warrior’s robes, his horse, to be arrayed."]}, {"id": "C6.30.78", "lines": ["He saw his steed of Barbar, thin and spare,", "And thought of God, the Giver, and His care:"]}, {"id": "C6.30.79", "lines": ["“If I have sinned, these chains have made me pay;", "What did this horse do, wasting thus away?"]}, {"id": "C6.30.80", "lines": ["Wash him and feed him; let him thrive and grow,", "And give him back the strength he used to know.”"]}, {"id": "C6.30.81", "lines": ["He summoned master smiths to set things right;", "They readied jowshans, weapons for the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.31.1", "lines": ["Night, like revengeful Ahriman, drew near;", "The court-bells rang, a clamor sharp and clear."]}, {"id": "C6.31.2", "lines": ["With Indian sword in hand and royal might,", "Esfandiyar mounted and rode into night."]}, {"id": "C6.31.3", "lines": ["Bahman and noble Nush Azar took horse,", "While wise Jamasp rode first to steer their course."]}, {"id": "C6.31.4", "lines": ["When those high-ranking riders left the wall,", "They reached the plain beneath night’s shadowed pall."]}, {"id": "C6.31.5", "lines": ["Esfandiyar looked upward through the night,", "And prayed, “Just Judge, whose truth is living light,"]}, {"id": "C6.31.6", "lines": ["Creator, mighty Lord, whose gifts impart", "The light that shines in Esfandiyar’s heart,"]}, {"id": "C6.31.7", "lines": ["If I prevail and bring Arjasp to strife,", "And make him answer with his blood and life,"]}, {"id": "C6.31.8", "lines": ["If I avenge Lohrasp, the blameless king,", "And chiefs cut down by war’s devouring sting,"]}, {"id": "C6.31.9", "lines": ["And my own thirty-eight brave brothers slain,", "Whose blood lies ruby-red across the plain,"]}, {"id": "C6.31.10", "lines": ["I swear by God, the Judge whose laws endure,", "To keep this pledge, and hold it firm and sure:"]}, {"id": "C6.31.11", "lines": ["For all the chains my father made me wear,", "No grudge or wish for vengeance shall I bear."]}, {"id": "C6.31.12", "lines": ["A hundred fire-temples I will raise,", "And cleanse the world of tyrants all my days."]}, {"id": "C6.31.13", "lines": ["No carpet shall be spread beneath my feet", "Until a hundred shelters rise complete."]}, {"id": "C6.31.14", "lines": ["No vulture passes there, nor game is found,", "Nor Gur-e-Khars leave footprints on the ground."]}, {"id": "C6.31.15", "lines": ["In barren lands where no wild creature dwells,", "I shall command ten thousand deep-dug wells."]}, {"id": "C6.31.16", "lines": ["Around their mouths I shall set living trees,", "To shade the dust and gather every breeze."]}, {"id": "C6.31.17", "lines": ["I shall bring those astray to Faith’s command,", "And cast the sorcerers’ heads upon the land."]}, {"id": "C6.31.18", "lines": ["Before God’s presence I will stand and pray;", "No idle ease shall steal my strength by day.”"]}, {"id": "C6.31.19", "lines": ["He spoke, then urged his battle-horse ahead,", "Until he found where Farshidvard had bled."]}, {"id": "C6.31.20", "lines": ["He found him on a cloth, his body torn,", "And saw the wounds that he had bravely borne."]}, {"id": "C6.31.21", "lines": ["So many tears poured freely from his eyes,", "The healer knew the grief behind his cries."]}, {"id": "C6.31.22", "lines": ["He cried, “Brave lion, seeker of the fray,", "Who brought this grief upon your life today?"]}, {"id": "C6.31.23", "lines": ["Though lion or fierce leopard be the foe,", "I shall avenge you for this bitter blow.”"]}, {"id": "C6.31.24", "lines": ["Then Farshidvard replied, “O prince renowned,", "This mortal wound began when you were bound."]}, {"id": "C6.31.25", "lines": ["Goshtasb brought me down, though I was strong;", "His choices led to ruin, grief, and wrong."]}, {"id": "C6.31.26", "lines": ["Had he not bound you fast, could Turks so dare", "To bring such ruin, death, and deep despair?"]}, {"id": "C6.31.27", "lines": ["Could they have shattered Balkh and seized the throne,", "And made Lohrasp’s blood darken every stone?"]}, {"id": "C6.31.28", "lines": ["No one has seen or heard such grief as this,", "Which Gurazm loosed from rancor’s black abyss."]}, {"id": "C6.31.29", "lines": ["Yet do not murmur; take what Fate has made,", "And be a fruitful tree whose boughs give shade."]}, {"id": "C6.31.30", "lines": ["My life is passing; yours must still remain,", "To bear this burden, rule, and face the pain."]}, {"id": "C6.31.31", "lines": ["Remember me when I draw my last breath,", "And give to cheer my spirit after death."]}, {"id": "C6.31.32", "lines": ["Farewell, great chief, defender of our line;", "Live with a burning soul and let it shine.”"]}, {"id": "C6.31.33", "lines": ["He spoke, then faded; all his power was gone;", "The noble lion Farshidvard passed on."]}, {"id": "C6.31.34", "lines": ["Esfandiyar clutched at his robe in grief;", "The silk was thorns, its softness no relief."]}, {"id": "C6.31.35", "lines": ["He cried, “Supreme and holy Lord, I pray,", "In goodness guide me on my vengeful way."]}, {"id": "C6.31.36", "lines": ["Let Farshidvard’s blood find revenge in fight,", "And guide my hand to set this outrage right."]}, {"id": "C6.31.37", "lines": ["Let me raise dust from stone and water high,", "And spill Arjasp’s blood, and see him die."]}, {"id": "C6.31.38", "lines": ["Give rest to old Lohrasp’s offended soul,", "And let revenge make broken honor whole.”"]}, {"id": "C6.31.39", "lines": ["With vengeful heart, his head bowed down in grief,", "He raised his brother’s corpse, denied relief."]}, {"id": "C6.31.40", "lines": ["He laid the body on the saddle, bound,", "Then climbed at midnight to the higher ground."]}, {"id": "C6.31.41", "lines": ["His brother bound upon the dun, he cried,", "“What service can I render at your side?"]}, {"id": "C6.31.42", "lines": ["How can I build a tomb to fit a king,", "With no gold, silver, gems, or bricks to bring?"]}, {"id": "C6.31.43", "lines": ["No water waits, no masons build a wall,", "No means to raise a tomb, however small.”"]}, {"id": "C6.31.44", "lines": ["He found a tree whose branches offered shade,", "And there his brother’s lifeless body laid."]}, {"id": "C6.31.45", "lines": ["He stripped the armor from his brother’s frame;", "His headcloth and his shirt a shroud became."]}, {"id": "C6.31.46", "lines": ["He left him there and moved with grief and dread", "Toward where Goshtasb had suffered, fought, and fled."]}, {"id": "C6.31.47", "lines": ["He saw Iranians slain across the ground,", "So thick they hid the stones and dust around."]}, {"id": "C6.31.48", "lines": ["He wept for men whose fortunes had been crossed,", "For ruined chiefs and all the glory lost."]}, {"id": "C6.31.49", "lines": ["Where battle’s heat had burned with fiercest flame,", "He saw Gurazm, the man of fatal name."]}, {"id": "C6.31.50", "lines": ["His horse lay overturned among the slain;", "His pale face streaked with dust and blood’s red stain."]}, {"id": "C6.31.51", "lines": ["He said, “Poor fool, ill-starred from your first breath,", "Your lying counsel opened roads to death."]}, {"id": "C6.31.52", "lines": ["A wise foe serves one better than a friend", "Whose counsel drives a kingdom to its end."]}, {"id": "C6.31.53", "lines": ["The wise pursue the tasks their strength can bear,", "And shun vain efforts that bring only care."]}, {"id": "C6.31.54", "lines": ["You sought my place and made the kingdom bleed;", "You shall hang in the next world for this deed.”"]}, {"id": "C6.31.55", "lines": ["He turned, still weeping, from that wasted ground,", "And saw the Turkish army spread around."]}, {"id": "C6.31.56", "lines": ["The camp stretched seven farsangs, far and wide;", "Its mass obscured the heavens on each side."]}, {"id": "C6.31.57", "lines": ["A ditch encircled them on left and right,", "Its breadth exceeding any arrow’s flight."]}, {"id": "C6.31.58", "lines": ["He crossed by cunning to the farther ground,", "And toward the level battlefield was bound."]}, {"id": "C6.31.59", "lines": ["Some eighty Turks patrolled the field that night;", "They came before him, shouting for a fight."]}, {"id": "C6.31.60", "lines": ["One asked his purpose. “Kuhram heard,” he lied,", "“That Esfandiyar passed you on this side."]}, {"id": "C6.31.61", "lines": ["He bade me draw my sword and make you pay", "For letting that fierce warrior get away.”"]}, {"id": "C6.31.62", "lines": ["He drew his sword, recalled Goshtasb’s defeat,", "Struck many down, then rode the Shah to meet."]}, {"id": "C6.32.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar climbed up the flinty height,", "And reached his father in the mountain’s night."]}, {"id": "C6.32.2", "lines": ["He bowed before him; Shah Goshtasb arose,", "His heart still burning from his many woes."]}, {"id": "C6.32.3", "lines": ["He kissed his son and stroked his face, then raised", "His voice in thanks: Yazdan of all he praised."]}, {"id": "C6.32.4", "lines": ["“I thank Yazdan who let me see you here,", "With spirit glad, my son, and heart of cheer."]}, {"id": "C6.32.5", "lines": ["Do not regard me now with bitter blame,", "Nor turn from vengeance on the foe in shame."]}, {"id": "C6.32.6", "lines": ["Gurazm, that man of malice and deceit,", "Made love for you within my heart retreat."]}, {"id": "C6.32.7", "lines": ["His evil words have brought him evil now;", "His wicked deeds have darkened his own brow."]}, {"id": "C6.32.8", "lines": ["By Him who rules the world, whose sight is wide,", "Who knows what men reveal and what they hide,"]}, {"id": "C6.32.9", "lines": ["If I prevail and overcome this foe,", "The crown and throne to you shall surely go."]}, {"id": "C6.32.10", "lines": ["I shall build fire-temples everywhere,", "And place my hidden treasures in your care.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.11", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “Your favor, king,", "Outweighs whatever crown and throne may bring."]}, {"id": "C6.32.12", "lines": ["If he is pleased with me, his loyal slave,", "No higher gift or honor would I crave."]}, {"id": "C6.32.13", "lines": ["The monarch knows that when I crossed the field,", "And saw Gurazm, by death and dust concealed,"]}, {"id": "C6.32.14", "lines": ["I wept above that slanderer in pain,", "And burned to think what grief had scarred your reign."]}, {"id": "C6.32.15", "lines": ["Our former griefs are wind and dust to me;", "I cast their broken memory loose and free."]}, {"id": "C6.32.16", "lines": ["Hereafter, when I draw my vengeful blade,", "And leave this rocky height with wrath displayed,"]}, {"id": "C6.32.17", "lines": ["Neither Arjasp nor Chin’s Khaqan shall stand,", "Nor Kuhram, Khallokh, nor the Turan land.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.18", "lines": ["The soldiers heard their prince’s bonds were cast", "Aside, his harsh imprisonment now past."]}, {"id": "C6.32.19", "lines": ["Troop after troop pressed upward to the height,", "To greet their chief, their crown, their strength in fight."]}, {"id": "C6.32.20", "lines": ["The mighty men, both foreign-born and kin,", "Bowed low before the prince they trusted in."]}, {"id": "C6.32.21", "lines": ["Then high-starred Esfandiyar cried, “Brave men,", "Draw tempered swords and break their ranks again."]}, {"id": "C6.32.22", "lines": ["Advance, great swordsmen; let your anger flow,", "And strike down all who brought this realm to woe.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.23", "lines": ["The chieftains blessed him, saying, “You remain", "Our crown, our sword, our answer to this pain."]}, {"id": "C6.32.24", "lines": ["We pledge our lives to you with willing hands;", "Your sight restores the strength of Iran’s bands.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.25", "lines": ["They spent the night arraying all the force,", "And tending jowshans, swords for battle’s course."]}, {"id": "C6.32.26", "lines": ["Goshtasb spoke further of misfortune’s tide,", "With glorious Esfandiyar at his side."]}, {"id": "C6.32.27", "lines": ["He told of youths whose blood had drenched the ground,", "And tears ran down his face without a sound."]}, {"id": "C6.32.28", "lines": ["Those valiant youths lay dead upon the field,", "With blood and iron caps their heads concealed."]}, {"id": "C6.32.29", "lines": ["That night Arjasp received the news with dread:", "“Goshtasb’s son has reached him,” they all said."]}, {"id": "C6.32.30", "lines": ["“He slew our scouts along the road by night,", "And those not slaughtered turned their backs in flight.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.31", "lines": ["Arjasp, in grief, called all his chiefs to hear,", "And spoke at length to Kuhram standing near:"]}, {"id": "C6.32.32", "lines": ["“Our thoughts were different when we crossed this ground;", "I thought the Div lay near us, chained and bound."]}, {"id": "C6.32.33", "lines": ["I said, ‘If we can catch that iron-bound foe,", "The world will clear, and Iran’s throne will go."]}, {"id": "C6.32.34", "lines": ["The crown and throne will fall into my power,", "And every land will bless my rule that hour.’"]}, {"id": "C6.32.35", "lines": ["Now that the Div-begotten prince has fled,", "Our triumph fails; our hopes and joy lie dead."]}, {"id": "C6.32.36", "lines": ["No Turk within our camp can match his might;", "So let us march before we face his fight."]}, {"id": "C6.32.37", "lines": ["While crown and throne remain within our train,", "Let us return to Turan with our gain.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.38", "lines": ["He ordered treasures brought and horses led,", "With Balkh’s seized booty gathered as he said."]}, {"id": "C6.32.39", "lines": ["He charged Kuhram to guard the heavy prize,", "And bade his younger sons prepare to rise."]}, {"id": "C6.32.40", "lines": ["Four younger sons stood ready at his call,", "And loaded beasts with treasure, one and all."]}, {"id": "C6.32.41", "lines": ["A hundred camels bore the treasure load,", "Each with its guide along a separate road."]}, {"id": "C6.32.42", "lines": ["The king was full of terror and of dread;", "He neither ate nor slept nor sought his bed."]}, {"id": "C6.32.43", "lines": ["A Turkish warrior came before the king;", "Gorgsar had words of confidence to bring."]}, {"id": "C6.32.44", "lines": ["He said, “O king of Turkish troops, why fall", "Before one man, as though he conquered all?"]}, {"id": "C6.32.45", "lines": ["Their force is struck, defeated, put to flight;", "Its Fortune reels beneath this heavy night."]}, {"id": "C6.32.46", "lines": ["The Iranian Shah is grief-consumed and worn;", "His sons lie dead, his royal branches torn."]}, {"id": "C6.32.47", "lines": ["Esfandiyar alone came to his aid;", "Why, before battle, leave your troops dismayed?"]}, {"id": "C6.32.48", "lines": ["Let me encounter him before the line;", "And I will fell him; triumph shall be mine.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.49", "lines": ["Arjasp, who heard his counsel and his claim,", "Saw courage joined with wisdom in his frame."]}, {"id": "C6.32.50", "lines": ["He answered, “Warrior eager for the fray,", "Your name and birth and skill are clear today."]}, {"id": "C6.32.51", "lines": ["If you make good the promise of your speech,", "And let your arm achieve what words can reach,"]}, {"id": "C6.32.52", "lines": ["From Turan to the sea of Chin, the land", "And Turan’s treasure shall be in your hand."]}, {"id": "C6.32.53", "lines": ["My troops in every realm shall you obey;", "From your commands I shall not turn away.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.54", "lines": ["He gave Gorgsar the troops to lead in fight;", "Hope rose within the warriors, burning bright."]}, {"id": "C6.32.55", "lines": ["When morning raised the sun’s bright golden shield,", "And night withdrew its black robe from the field,"]}, {"id": "C6.32.56", "lines": ["The world grew ruby-colored in the glow;", "The mighty force descended toward the foe."]}, {"id": "C6.32.57", "lines": ["Esfandiyar led down his troops to fight,", "The men who thronged the mountain’s rocky height."]}, {"id": "C6.32.58", "lines": ["An ox-head gorz hung near his saddle-bow,", "To break the lines and lay the proud foe low."]}, {"id": "C6.32.59", "lines": ["Goshtasb stood centered, eager for the fray,", "His soul intent on making Arjasp pay."]}, {"id": "C6.32.60", "lines": ["Nastur, Zarir’s son, took the right wing’s place,", "A lion-fighter with a fearless face."]}, {"id": "C6.32.61", "lines": ["He marshaled every man at his command,", "And set the right in order, band by band."]}, {"id": "C6.32.62", "lines": ["Upon the left stood Gordvi, bold and wise,", "Bright as the sun when Aries lights the skies."]}, {"id": "C6.32.63", "lines": ["Arjasp arranged his troops across the field;", "The stars were veiled by spear and flashing shield."]}, {"id": "C6.32.64", "lines": ["The air was full of banners, silk, and sound;", "Blue steel and spearheads darkened all the ground."]}, {"id": "C6.32.65", "lines": ["The center, where Arjasp took up his seat,", "Seemed ebony beneath tabiras’ beat."]}, {"id": "C6.32.66", "lines": ["Kundur held right: karnays, tabiras, cries;", "The king of Chigil held the left likewise."]}, {"id": "C6.32.67", "lines": ["From him a lion might have borrowed heart,", "So fierce his courage looked before the start."]}, {"id": "C6.32.68", "lines": ["When King Arjasp beheld that chosen force,", "With lance-armed horsemen all along its course,"]}, {"id": "C6.32.69", "lines": ["He climbed a height and searched the armies’ sweep,", "And saw their chosen horsemen massed so deep."]}, {"id": "C6.32.70", "lines": ["The forces frightened him on every side;", "The world grew black before his failing pride."]}, {"id": "C6.32.71", "lines": ["He called the cameleers and gave command", "To bring ten camel caravans to hand."]}, {"id": "C6.32.72", "lines": ["In private then he told his men his fear:", "“If this drags on, with victory nowhere near,"]}, {"id": "C6.32.73", "lines": ["And no bright hope of triumph lights our way,", "Have camels ready; let there be no delay."]}, {"id": "C6.32.74", "lines": ["My chosen men and I can then ride fast,", "And find a road to safety at the last.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.75", "lines": ["Between the lines fierce Esfandiyar wheeled,", "Like a foam-lipped lion on the open field."]}, {"id": "C6.32.76", "lines": ["He moved as turns the sky’s revolving frame,", "And swung the ox-head gorz with deadly aim."]}, {"id": "C6.32.77", "lines": ["The breadth of earth itself appeared too small", "To hold his wrath or answer to his call."]}, {"id": "C6.32.78", "lines": ["War-cries arose, and karnays filled the air;", "The warriors advanced with swords laid bare."]}, {"id": "C6.32.79", "lines": ["The field became a vast and crimson flood,", "A sea whose every wave was made of blood."]}, {"id": "C6.32.80", "lines": ["The air grew Pleiad-bright with lifted swords,", "As warriors moved against the hostile hordes."]}, {"id": "C6.32.81", "lines": ["Then brave Esfandiyar pressed down his weight", "Upon the stirrups, roaring in his hate."]}, {"id": "C6.32.82", "lines": ["He gripped his steel gorz, charged the center’s might,", "And killed three hundred warriors in the fight."]}, {"id": "C6.32.83", "lines": ["He cried, “For Farshidvard, I take this vow:", "I shall raise dust from out the ocean now.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.84", "lines": ["He gave his swift horse rein and turned aside,", "Against the right wing in a roaring ride."]}, {"id": "C6.32.85", "lines": ["There he cut down one hundred sixty more,", "And filled the field with broken shields and gore."]}, {"id": "C6.32.86", "lines": ["When Kuhram saw that slaughter, courage broke;", "He showed his back beneath the battle smoke."]}, {"id": "C6.32.87", "lines": ["Esfandiyar cried, “I avenge Lohrasp, now slain,", "Whose blood has filled the Shah’s own heart with pain.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.88", "lines": ["He turned his reins against the left-hand side,", "And blood spread there across the battle tide."]}, {"id": "C6.32.89", "lines": ["He slew one hundred twenty-five who came", "With crowns and treasure, men of mighty name."]}, {"id": "C6.32.90", "lines": ["He said, “Thus I avenge my brothers’ death,", "Those thirty-eight whom war robbed of their breath.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.91", "lines": ["Arjasp saw this and called Gorgsar in ire:", "“Our countless warriors perish in his fire."]}, {"id": "C6.32.92", "lines": ["The fighting men who stood before the line", "Are dead; why does your strength give us no sign?"]}, {"id": "C6.32.93", "lines": ["Why did your tongue boast so of fame and might,", "If now your hand hangs idle in the fight?”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.94", "lines": ["Those words inflamed the warrior’s savage pride;", "Gorgsar advanced alone from Arjasp’s side."]}, {"id": "C6.32.95", "lines": ["He held a royal bow, its string drawn tight,", "A steel-tipped khadang arrow poised for flight."]}, {"id": "C6.32.96", "lines": ["He neared the prince and let the arrow go;", "It struck his chest, a hard and telling blow."]}, {"id": "C6.32.97", "lines": ["Esfandiyar hung sideways, feigning pain,", "His body drooping low beside the rein."]}, {"id": "C6.32.98", "lines": ["Gorgsar believed the shaft pierced jowshan’s scale,", "And that the prince’s radiant form would fail."]}, {"id": "C6.32.99", "lines": ["He drew his flashing sword and forward sped,", "Intent on cutting off the prince’s head."]}, {"id": "C6.32.100", "lines": ["The prince, in fear of harm, prepared to throw", "The coiled-up kamand from his saddle-bow."]}, {"id": "C6.32.101", "lines": ["He called upon the Maker’s holy name,", "And cast the coil with sure and perfect aim."]}, {"id": "C6.32.102", "lines": ["It caught Gorgsar around the neck and head;", "The warrior shook within the tightening thread."]}, {"id": "C6.32.103", "lines": ["Esfandiyar hurled him down upon the ground,", "And bound his hands behind him, firm and sound."]}, {"id": "C6.32.104", "lines": ["He set a halter round the captive’s neck,", "And dragged him, foaming blood, a helpless wreck."]}, {"id": "C6.32.105", "lines": ["Through golden-helmed Homayun, from the fray", "He sent the captive to the Shah that day."]}, {"id": "C6.32.106", "lines": ["He said, “Within the tent let him remain;", "Bind him, but do not have this captive slain."]}, {"id": "C6.32.107", "lines": ["We wait to see whom God will bring to grief,", "And who shall win this battle,” said the chief."]}, {"id": "C6.32.108", "lines": ["He went and led the army to the fray;", "Arjasp asked, “Where is Kuhram? Who can say?"]}, {"id": "C6.32.109", "lines": ["His flag is lost upon the rightward wing;", "Where is Kundur, who made the mountains ring?"]}, {"id": "C6.32.110", "lines": ["Where is that lion-catcher, whose keen spear", "And arrow pierced the peaks of mountains sheer?”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.111", "lines": ["They told Arjasp, “Iran’s great champion came,", "Defeated fierce Gorgsar and quenched his fame."]}, {"id": "C6.32.112", "lines": ["Bold lion though he was, he fell in snare;", "The wolf-marked banner vanished from the air."]}, {"id": "C6.32.113", "lines": ["The air is violet-dim with blades held high;", "His capture makes the Turkish chieftains sigh.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.114", "lines": ["That omen grieved Arjasp and struck him cold;", "He called the camels from their desert hold."]}, {"id": "C6.32.115", "lines": ["He took the desert route with lords beside,", "And on those powerful beasts began to ride."]}, {"id": "C6.32.116", "lines": ["They led their chargers as they fled the plain,", "And left their troops to slaughter and to pain."]}, {"id": "C6.32.117", "lines": ["With courtiers riding toward Khallokh he sped,", "While dust arose behind his path of dread."]}, {"id": "C6.32.118", "lines": ["Esfandiyar then raised a battle cry,", "That rang from every crag into the sky."]}, {"id": "C6.32.119", "lines": ["He cried, “Iranians, do not strike in vain;", "Drive all your swords into the hostile train."]}, {"id": "C6.32.120", "lines": ["Sheathe them in hostile hearts; let Turan’s slain", "Rise like Mount Gharan on the battle plain.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.121", "lines": ["The troops, inspired by vengeance, seized their reins;", "And force met force across the scarlet plains."]}, {"id": "C6.32.122", "lines": ["Dust, stones, and grass were saturated red;", "A mill could turn on all the blood they shed."]}, {"id": "C6.32.123", "lines": ["The plain was strewn with feet and heads cut free,", "With trunks and sword-clenched fists for all to see."]}, {"id": "C6.32.124", "lines": ["The horsemen pressed their charge across the ground;", "They did not stop to take the spoils they found."]}, {"id": "C6.32.125", "lines": ["When the Turks heard that King Arjasp had fled,", "Their bodies seemed to burst with grief and dread."]}, {"id": "C6.32.126", "lines": ["Horsemen fled; the rest threw jowshans away,", "And came with streaming eyes to beg and pray."]}, {"id": "C6.32.127", "lines": ["Esfandiyar gave quarter to them all;", "No more beneath his blows did any fall."]}, {"id": "C6.32.128", "lines": ["His grandfather avenged, his heart found rest;", "A chief would guard the men at his behest."]}, {"id": "C6.32.129", "lines": ["Bloodstained, he sought the Shah, with clotted blade;", "His shoulders chafed where heavy armor weighed."]}, {"id": "C6.32.130", "lines": ["With milk they washed his hand and sword of gore;", "They drew the arrows from the coat he wore."]}, {"id": "C6.32.131", "lines": ["He bathed, then dressed anew to mourn the dead;", "To God, the righteous Judge, his prayers were said."]}, {"id": "C6.32.132", "lines": ["For seven days the Shah, in grief, laid bare", "His fears; his son joined him in fervent prayer."]}, {"id": "C6.32.133", "lines": ["The eighth day brought Gorgsar, all hope now fled;", "He shook like windblown willow in his dread."]}, {"id": "C6.32.134", "lines": ["He said, “My death will bring no praise to you;", "Let me remain your servant, good and true."]}, {"id": "C6.32.135", "lines": ["In hardship I shall serve you; at your side,", "To reach the Ruyin Dezh, and be your guide.”"]}, {"id": "C6.32.136", "lines": ["The prince commanded bonds for hand and heel;", "They took him to the tent, secured in steel."]}, {"id": "C6.32.137", "lines": ["He reached Arjasp’s camp, where he shared the gain", "With horse and foot who fought upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C6.32.138", "lines": ["Among the Turkish captives brought his way,", "Those who had harmed his troops he chose to slay."]}, {"id": "C6.33.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar returned to take his place", "Within the royal tent, the Shah to face."]}, {"id": "C6.33.2", "lines": ["They spoke of old Lohrasp and vengeance won,", "And all that on the battlefield was done."]}, {"id": "C6.33.3", "lines": ["They spoke of all the famous men who died,", "And how the field had swallowed Iran’s pride."]}, {"id": "C6.33.4", "lines": ["Goshtasb said, “Valiant son, hear what I say:", "You smile; your sisters lie in chains today."]}, {"id": "C6.33.5", "lines": ["How blessed those who died upon the field,", "Not shamed by Turkish hands or forced to yield."]}, {"id": "C6.33.6", "lines": ["When subjects see me seated on the throne,", "What will they say of this disgrace well known?"]}, {"id": "C6.33.7", "lines": ["As long as life remains within my frame,", "I shall weep blood and burn with this cruel shame."]}, {"id": "C6.33.8", "lines": ["By God Most High, Yazdan of depth and height,", "I pledge this crown to you before His sight:"]}, {"id": "C6.33.9", "lines": ["If you go safely into Turan’s land,", "And brave the dragon’s breath with fearless hand,"]}, {"id": "C6.33.10", "lines": ["If you release your sisters from the foe,", "The crown and empire to your rule shall go."]}, {"id": "C6.33.11", "lines": ["I shall yield throne and treasure, realm and store,", "And crown you king the day you reach my door.”"]}, {"id": "C6.33.12", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “May no one see", "The day when you, my king, are lost to me."]}, {"id": "C6.33.13", "lines": ["I am your slave, my father and my king;", "I seek no crown, nor any royal thing."]}, {"id": "C6.33.14", "lines": ["My soul and body stand as ransom still;", "I ask no throne to rule by my own will."]}, {"id": "C6.33.15", "lines": ["I shall avenge our dead upon the foe,", "And bring Arjasp and all his kingdom low."]}, {"id": "C6.33.16", "lines": ["No field or mountain in Turan shall stand;", "I shall ruin the breadth of all that land."]}, {"id": "C6.33.17", "lines": ["Through Fortune that the Shah alone has shown,", "I shall bring back my sisters to your throne.”"]}, {"id": "C6.33.18", "lines": ["Goshtasb blessed him: “May your spirit find", "A lasting union with a prudent mind."]}, {"id": "C6.33.19", "lines": ["May God protect you till your quest is done;", "May you return to claim the throne, my son.”"]}, {"id": "C6.33.20", "lines": ["He called his troops wherever priests were found,", "Or warriors dwelt, throughout the lands around."]}, {"id": "C6.33.21", "lines": ["He chose twelve thousand horsemen of great fame,", "All skilled in war and honored each by name."]}, {"id": "C6.33.22", "lines": ["He shared his treasure with the chosen men;", "Not one was discontented with him then."]}, {"id": "C6.33.23", "lines": ["He gave his son rich treasure, then bestowed", "A royal crown whose precious jewels glowed."]}, {"id": "C6.33.24", "lines": ["From royal gates the call rang out for steeds:", "“Bring forth the prince’s mounts for martial deeds.”"]}, {"id": "C6.33.25", "lines": ["They bore the tents and homa banner high;", "The rising dust made black the sunlit sky."]}, {"id": "C6.33.26", "lines": ["Esfandiyar came from the hall to stand", "Upon the plain and choose his fighting band."]}]}, {"id": "C7", "title": "Esfandiyar’s Seven Stages and the Ruyin Dezh", "summary": "15 sections · 831 couplets", "path": "/poem/c7/", "couplets": [{"id": "C7.1.1", "lines": ["Next come the Seven Stages, which I mold", "In newly fashioned words of worth and gold."]}, {"id": "C7.1.2", "lines": ["Of war and counsel, vengeance, justice, might,", "Of feasts and revels, and the bitter fight."]}, {"id": "C7.1.3", "lines": ["If Fortune aids me in the task I choose,", "And grants success to my poetic muse,"]}, {"id": "C7.1.4", "lines": ["With Mahmud’s royal backing I shall sing,", "His farr and crown sustaining all I bring."]}, {"id": "C7.1.5", "lines": ["May this world’s Shah forever live and reign,", "With mighty kings as servants in his train."]}, {"id": "C7.1.6", "lines": ["The shining sun revealed its face above,", "And graced the face of earth with light and love."]}, {"id": "C7.1.7", "lines": ["When in the Ram the sun renewed the crown,", "Both East and West rejoiced in his renown."]}, {"id": "C7.1.8", "lines": ["The mountains echo thunder, deep and loud;", "Along the streams, narcissus, tulips crowd."]}, {"id": "C7.1.9", "lines": ["Narcissus scowls; calm tulips bloom below;", "Hyacinths flame; pomegranate blossoms glow."]}, {"id": "C7.1.10", "lines": ["The clouds have hearts of fire and tearful eyes,", "While wrath and music mingle in the skies."]}, {"id": "C7.1.11", "lines": ["The cloud shows fire and pours its waters deep;", "Its thunder wakes the sleeper from his sleep."]}, {"id": "C7.1.12", "lines": ["Awake: the world is silk in colors bright,", "Like Mani’s art in Chin, spread to your sight."]}, {"id": "C7.1.13", "lines": ["The sunlit world displays its springtime pride,", "With tulip and narcissus tearful-eyed."]}, {"id": "C7.1.14", "lines": ["It laughs: “O bold-eyed one, for love I cry;", "Not pain nor anger brings tears to my eye.”"]}, {"id": "C7.1.15", "lines": ["Earth only laughs when rain falls from on high;", "A generous monarch’s hand outshines the sky."]}, {"id": "C7.1.16", "lines": ["The sky gives rain in spring, then turns away;", "The generous Shah gives bounty every day."]}, {"id": "C7.1.17", "lines": ["As when the sun in Aries climbs the skies,", "The Shah’s hand pours its light on mortal eyes."]}, {"id": "C7.1.18", "lines": ["If treasure comes from earth or ocean’s store,", "If gold and musk lie heaped before his door,"]}, {"id": "C7.1.19", "lines": ["He does not keep his light within his hall,", "But gives to kings and beggars, one and all."]}, {"id": "C7.1.20", "lines": ["Abul-Qasim’s hand pours its bounty bright", "On pure and impious, on wrong and right."]}, {"id": "C7.1.21", "lines": ["He grudges none the gifts his hands bestow;", "Nor rests when preparations bid him go."]}, {"id": "C7.1.22", "lines": ["He enters battle when the times demand,", "And humbles kings beneath his conquering hand."]}, {"id": "C7.1.23", "lines": ["He gives his treasure to the men who yield,", "Unmindful of his labors in the field."]}, {"id": "C7.1.24", "lines": ["May Mahmud rule the world with justice crowned,", "And spread prosperity the whole world round."]}, {"id": "C7.1.25", "lines": ["Now hear the tale the seasoned elder told,", "And learn of Ruyin Dezh, that famed stronghold."]}, {"id": "C7.2.1", "lines": ["The dehqan spread the board with practiced care,", "And set “The Seven Stages” as the fare."]}, {"id": "C7.2.2", "lines": ["He took a golden goblet in his hand,", "And told of King Goshtasb, who ruled the land."]}, {"id": "C7.2.3", "lines": ["He told of Ruyin Dezh, the road ahead,", "And how Gorgsar the prince along it led."]}, {"id": "C7.2.4", "lines": ["The tale began: when grief and wrath took hold,", "And made Esfandiyar’s heart fierce and cold,"]}, {"id": "C7.2.5", "lines": ["He came to Balkh, then left his father’s side,", "And took Gorgsar toward Turan as his guide."]}, {"id": "C7.2.6", "lines": ["He marched until the road before him split,", "And camped where both dividing pathways knit."]}, {"id": "C7.2.7", "lines": ["He bade them spread the board and furnish wine,", "With harp and song to make the gathering shine."]}, {"id": "C7.2.8", "lines": ["All the chiefs of the line sat down to eat", "Beside the king, each in his proper seat."]}, {"id": "C7.2.9", "lines": ["They brought Gorgsar, as ordered, bound and sore,", "Still worn by all the misery he bore."]}, {"id": "C7.2.10", "lines": ["By royal order, four full cups were poured;", "Gorgsar received them there before the lord."]}, {"id": "C7.2.11", "lines": ["Then spoke Esfandiyar: “Unlucky one,", "I shall enthrone you high beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "C7.2.12", "lines": ["I grant you Turan’s kingdom and its throne,", "And lift you high where royal powers are known,"]}, {"id": "C7.2.13", "lines": ["When I return with victory complete,", "If all your words are free from all deceit."]}, {"id": "C7.2.14", "lines": ["Your kin and all your children’s kin shall be", "Unharmed, if you speak truthfully to me."]}, {"id": "C7.2.15", "lines": ["But if you turn aside and utter lies,", "No falsehood will find passage through my eyes."]}, {"id": "C7.2.16", "lines": ["My knife shall halve you at the waist and make", "The hearts of all who see your body quake.”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.17", "lines": ["Gorgsar replied, “O prince of glorious name,", "No lie from me shall stain your royal fame."]}, {"id": "C7.2.18", "lines": ["The king shall hear the truth in every part;", "Then act with kingly wisdom in your heart.”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.19", "lines": ["“Where stands the Ruyin Dezh?” the prince then said;", "“It lies beyond Iran—what waits ahead?"]}, {"id": "C7.2.20", "lines": ["How many farsangs? Which roads reach its gate?", "What dangers on the journey lie in wait?"]}, {"id": "C7.2.21", "lines": ["How many troops are gathered in that place?", "And tell me all its height and guarded space.”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.22", "lines": ["Gorgsar replied, “O prince of royal seed,", "Three roads up to that guarded fortress lead."]}, {"id": "C7.2.23", "lines": ["Arjasp has named that place his battleground;", "Three roads to reach its distant walls are found."]}, {"id": "C7.2.24", "lines": ["Three months your troops must travel by that way;", "The second road will take two months away."]}, {"id": "C7.2.25", "lines": ["The first has water, grass, and towns; it feeds", "The chiefs of Turan, meeting all their needs."]}, {"id": "C7.2.26", "lines": ["The second gives the army little grain;", "No grass or watering place the beasts can gain."]}, {"id": "C7.2.27", "lines": ["No resting place appears along that road;", "No settled shelter offers an abode."]}, {"id": "C7.2.28", "lines": ["The third road takes but seven days to tread;", "The eighth will bring the fortress walls ahead."]}, {"id": "C7.2.29", "lines": ["With wolves and lions, dragons haunt that trail;", "Against their claws, all hopes of flight will fail."]}, {"id": "C7.2.30", "lines": ["Yet worse than wolf or lion, more to fear", "Than dragons, is the witch whose spells draw near."]}, {"id": "C7.2.31", "lines": ["From sea to moon she lifts one by her spell;", "Another plunges headfirst down a well."]}, {"id": "C7.2.32", "lines": ["Then desert, Simorgh, cold that makes you freeze,", "And winds await that tear apart the trees."]}, {"id": "C7.2.33", "lines": ["Then will the Ruyin Dezh at last draw near,", "A wonder none has seen or heard of here."]}, {"id": "C7.2.34", "lines": ["It rises higher than the dark cloud’s wall;", "Arms, troops, and stores are gathered there for all."]}, {"id": "C7.2.35", "lines": ["Around it runs a river clear and wide,", "A sight to leave all gazers mystified."]}, {"id": "C7.2.36", "lines": ["The monarch takes a boat across its flow", "Whenever hunting calls him forth to go."]}, {"id": "C7.2.37", "lines": ["But should he dwell inside five score full years,", "No need to seek the outer world appears."]}, {"id": "C7.2.38", "lines": ["Within that Dezh are fields and pasture ground,", "Fruit trees and water, and a mill are found.”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.39", "lines": ["Esfandiyar was troubled when he heard,", "And sighed awhile, then answered with firm word:"]}, {"id": "C7.2.40", "lines": ["“There is no road for us except that way;", "The shortest path is best for us today.”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.41", "lines": ["Gorgsar replied, “No king through might or skill", "Has crossed these Stages and survived them still.”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.42", "lines": ["The chieftain answered, “If you ride with me,", "A Div’s own strength and courage you shall see."]}, {"id": "C7.2.43", "lines": ["What does your knowledge say? What first draws near?", "What must I fight to force our passage clear?”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.44", "lines": ["Gorgsar replied, “O famed and fearless man,", "Two wolves will meet you where the Stages span."]}, {"id": "C7.2.45", "lines": ["A male and female, elephant in size,", "With staglike horns, and battle in their eyes."]}, {"id": "C7.2.46", "lines": ["They long to fight with lions, chests spread wide,", "Lean-flanked, huge-tusked, with monstrous strength inside.”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.47", "lines": ["They took him, bound and wretched, from the feast,", "Back to the tent; his chains were not released."]}, {"id": "C7.2.48", "lines": ["The prince prepared a feast; the board was spread;", "His Kayanian cap was set upon his head."]}, {"id": "C7.2.49", "lines": ["When sun displayed its crown in heaven’s height,", "And earth lay bright beneath the sky’s clear light,"]}, {"id": "C7.2.50", "lines": ["Tabiras sounded with a rolling cry;", "Earth turned to iron; ebony, the sky."]}, {"id": "C7.2.51", "lines": ["With fair array and spirits bold and strong,", "The prince advanced, his marching columns long."]}, {"id": "C7.2.52", "lines": ["He moved toward Turan; when the First drew near,", "He chose a veteran watchman, calm and clear."]}, {"id": "C7.2.53", "lines": ["His name was Bishutan, a chief of fame,", "Who kept the army safe when foemen came."]}, {"id": "C7.2.54", "lines": ["He said, “Keep discipline among the men;", "Stand watchful over all the army then."]}, {"id": "C7.2.55", "lines": ["What Gorgsar said has troubled me with fear;", "I will go on; keep all my people here."]}, {"id": "C7.2.56", "lines": ["If evil falls on me along this road,", "It must not crush my men beneath its load.”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.57", "lines": ["He donned his war coat; then his night-dark steed", "Was saddled for the prince to take the lead."]}, {"id": "C7.2.58", "lines": ["He neared the wolves; what wolves! Their monstrous height", "Made each a mighty elephant in sight."]}, {"id": "C7.2.59", "lines": ["The wolves beheld his breast, his neck, his waist,", "His warrior grip, his iron gorz well placed."]}, {"id": "C7.2.60", "lines": ["Like grim mad elephants, keen for the fight,", "They rushed from open plain with savage might."]}, {"id": "C7.2.61", "lines": ["The hero strung his bow; his battle cry", "Was like a roaring lion’s, fierce and high."]}, {"id": "C7.2.62", "lines": ["He rained his arrows from his practiced hands", "On those two Divs that came from savage lands."]}, {"id": "C7.2.63", "lines": ["His steel-tipped arrows struck them, flight by flight;", "Both beasts were wounded, weakened in the fight."]}, {"id": "C7.2.64", "lines": ["He drew his watered blade and checked the rein,", "His head bent low; the beasts were weak with pain."]}, {"id": "C7.2.65", "lines": ["He cut their heads off, slashed their flesh; their blood", "Ran through the dust and turned the ground to mud."]}, {"id": "C7.2.66", "lines": ["Dismounting, he confessed his need and prayed;", "Then washed his blood-stained body, arms, and blade."]}, {"id": "C7.2.67", "lines": ["He sought a spot no blood had stained or marred,", "And faced the sun in worship and regard."]}, {"id": "C7.2.68", "lines": ["With dust upon his head, in grief he cried,", "“O righteous Judge, your strength has been my guide."]}, {"id": "C7.2.69", "lines": ["You laid these mighty creatures in the dust;", "In you alone I place my strength and trust."]}, {"id": "C7.2.70", "lines": ["You gave me judgment, strength, and skill to fight;", "Now guide me in the paths of what is right.”"]}, {"id": "C7.2.71", "lines": ["When Bishutan arrived with all his men,", "They found the hero still at prayer, and then"]}, {"id": "C7.2.72", "lines": ["In wonder asked, “Are these two wolves we see,", "Or raging elephants? How can this be?"]}, {"id": "C7.2.73", "lines": ["Long live this heart, this sword, this mighty hand!", "Without him, let no throne or army stand,"]}, {"id": "C7.2.74", "lines": ["No greatness and no royal feast remain!”", "They pitched his tent upon the open plain."]}, {"id": "C7.2.75", "lines": ["They spread a golden table, set to dine,", "And ate their food, then called for cups of wine."]}, {"id": "C7.3.1", "lines": ["For fierce Gorgsar, the news brought only pain:", "The prince had fought the wolves, and both lay slain."]}, {"id": "C7.3.2", "lines": ["The prince commanded, “Bring the prisoner here.”", "They brought him quaking, face all wet with fear."]}, {"id": "C7.3.3", "lines": ["He gave him three full cups of wine, then said,", "“What wonder lies upon the road ahead?”"]}, {"id": "C7.3.4", "lines": ["Gorgsar replied, “O monarch lion-souled,", "The next stage holds a terror to behold."]}, {"id": "C7.3.5", "lines": ["A lion waits to meet you on the way;", "No nahang could withstand it in the fray."]}, {"id": "C7.3.6", "lines": ["The eagle, though its heart is bold in flight,", "Would never cross that path or meet its might.”"]}, {"id": "C7.3.7", "lines": ["Esfandiyar laughed lightly as he heard,", "And said, “You hostile Turk, now hear my word:"]}, {"id": "C7.3.8", "lines": ["Tomorrow you shall see a warrior stand,", "And greet the lion with his sword in hand.”"]}, {"id": "C7.3.9", "lines": ["When night grew dark, the monarch gave command;", "His troops set out across the shadowed land."]}, {"id": "C7.3.10", "lines": ["They marched throughout the darkness of the night,", "And praised the prince who led them to the fight."]}, {"id": "C7.3.11", "lines": ["When sun cast off its cloak of azure shade,", "And dressed the world in gold and rich brocade,"]}, {"id": "C7.3.12", "lines": ["He reached the lions’ station on the plain,", "To meet the lions on their own terrain."]}, {"id": "C7.3.13", "lines": ["He called for Bishutan and gave command,", "With much advice on how to guard the band."]}, {"id": "C7.3.14", "lines": ["“I go myself to fight these beasts,” he said,", "“And leave the force beneath your watch instead.”"]}, {"id": "C7.3.15", "lines": ["He went ahead; as he approached the pair,", "The lion’s heart grew dark with deep despair."]}, {"id": "C7.3.16", "lines": ["A lion and a lioness were near;", "Both charged to meet the prince, devoid of fear."]}, {"id": "C7.3.17", "lines": ["The lion charged; he struck a mighty blow;", "Its face took on the coral’s crimson glow."]}, {"id": "C7.3.18", "lines": ["From head to waist he cleft the beast in two,", "And in its mate a sudden terror grew."]}, {"id": "C7.3.19", "lines": ["Yet like her mate she rushed with savage breath;", "His blade struck at her head and brought her death."]}, {"id": "C7.3.20", "lines": ["Her head rolled in the dust; the blood ran bright", "On his strong hands and chest, red from the fight."]}, {"id": "C7.3.21", "lines": ["He washed his head and body clean of gore;", "No guardian but God did he implore."]}, {"id": "C7.3.22", "lines": ["He said, “O righteous Judge, my shield and stay,", "You used my hand to sweep these beasts away.”"]}, {"id": "C7.3.23", "lines": ["The troops and Bishutan beheld the slain,", "And hailed the prince, renowned through earth’s domain."]}, {"id": "C7.3.24", "lines": ["The prince returned; within his tent they laid", "A feast of finest dishes, freshly made."]}, {"id": "C7.4.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar called Gorgsar, steeped in spite,", "A luckless man who wished him ill outright."]}, {"id": "C7.4.2", "lines": ["He gave him three full cups of rosy wine,", "Until that darkened heart began to shine."]}, {"id": "C7.4.3", "lines": ["Then said, “Ill-fated wretch, speak plain tonight:", "What perils will tomorrow bring to light?”"]}, {"id": "C7.4.4", "lines": ["Gorgsar replied, “O king of high renown,", "May evil never bring your fortune down."]}, {"id": "C7.4.5", "lines": ["You went to battle like devouring fire,", "And passed through perils terrible and dire."]}, {"id": "C7.4.6", "lines": ["You do not know what waits another day;", "Spare your good fortune; turn and ride away."]}, {"id": "C7.4.7", "lines": ["When you confront the next stage on this quest,", "A greater peril puts you to the test."]}, {"id": "C7.4.8", "lines": ["A grim and mighty dragon lurks ahead,", "Whose breath draws fishes from the sea’s deep bed."]}, {"id": "C7.4.9", "lines": ["Flames pour from out the furnace of its jaw;", "Its mountain body fills the earth with awe."]}, {"id": "C7.4.10", "lines": ["If you retrace your steps, that course is well;", "Your soul bears witness to the truth I tell."]}, {"id": "C7.4.11", "lines": ["Have you no pity for yourself, or all", "These troops assembled at your royal call?”"]}, {"id": "C7.4.12", "lines": ["The prince replied, “Dragged bound, you wretch, you go", "With me, to see me overcome this foe."]}, {"id": "C7.4.13", "lines": ["It shall not flee the blade that I shall wield,", "Nor break my grasp; to me the beast must yield.”"]}, {"id": "C7.4.14", "lines": ["He called for carpenters; they came and brought", "The long, great beams of timber that he sought."]}, {"id": "C7.4.15", "lines": ["He had a sturdy wooden carriage made,", "With swords around it, edge by edge arrayed."]}, {"id": "C7.4.16", "lines": ["A box atop it, built with craftsman’s art,", "Would hold the prince within the bladed cart."]}, {"id": "C7.4.17", "lines": ["Two noble horses drew the prince along;", "He rode inside to test that all was strong."]}, {"id": "C7.4.18", "lines": ["In jowshan he drove awhile through the land,", "With helm secured and Kabul knife in hand."]}, {"id": "C7.4.19", "lines": ["The work was done; his preparations made,", "The world grew black beneath the night’s deep shade."]}, {"id": "C7.4.20", "lines": ["The moon in Aries showed her crown of light;", "Esfandiyar rode Shulak through the night."]}, {"id": "C7.4.21", "lines": ["His army marched before him in a train,", "Until dawn’s sign was written on the plain."]}, {"id": "C7.4.22", "lines": ["When black night’s banner folded up from view,", "Bishutan came to him as morning grew,"]}, {"id": "C7.4.23", "lines": ["With nobles and his kinsmen at his side;", "The prince put on his war coat for the ride."]}, {"id": "C7.4.24", "lines": ["He left his men in Bishutan’s command,", "And took his seat within the box as planned."]}, {"id": "C7.4.25", "lines": ["He harnessed two strong horses to the snare,", "And drove it straight toward the dragon’s lair."]}, {"id": "C7.4.26", "lines": ["Afar it heard the carriage wheels resound,", "And saw the horses tread the open ground."]}, {"id": "C7.4.27", "lines": ["It came in view, a mountain black as night;", "The sun and moon seemed hidden from his sight."]}, {"id": "C7.4.28", "lines": ["Its eyes were like two fountains filled with blood;", "Its mouth poured flames that surged forth in a flood."]}, {"id": "C7.4.29", "lines": ["Its jaws gaped wide, like caverns in the stone;", "Its bellow thundered at the prince alone."]}, {"id": "C7.4.30", "lines": ["He saw the beast and held his anxious breath,", "Then turned to God for help against that death."]}, {"id": "C7.4.31", "lines": ["The horses strained to flee the dragon’s force,", "But it sucked in the carriage and each horse."]}, {"id": "C7.4.32", "lines": ["Inside the box, the prince grew stern and grim;", "The swords lodged in the maw surrounding him."]}, {"id": "C7.4.33", "lines": ["Blood like a sea poured from its wounded maw;", "The swords stayed fixed between its throat and jaw."]}, {"id": "C7.4.34", "lines": ["Those swords had made its mouth a sheath of pain;", "It could not loose them; strength began to wane."]}, {"id": "C7.4.35", "lines": ["Then from the box the gallant warrior rose,", "And raised his sword to strike repeated blows."]}, {"id": "C7.4.36", "lines": ["With lion’s strength he hacked the dragon’s brain,", "Till venom fumes arose across the plain."]}, {"id": "C7.4.37", "lines": ["The fumes engulfed him; darkness veiled his head;", "He fell like a mountain, senseless as the dead."]}, {"id": "C7.4.38", "lines": ["Bishutan came; the army too drew near,", "With tears and grief and hearts consumed by fear."]}, {"id": "C7.4.39", "lines": ["They wailed and left their horses in the plain,", "In fear that their brave prince lay with the slain."]}, {"id": "C7.4.40", "lines": ["Then Bishutan came rushing to his aid,", "And bathed his face with rosewater, afraid."]}, {"id": "C7.4.41", "lines": ["When that young prince reopened both his eyes,", "He answered all the warriors’ grieving cries:"]}, {"id": "C7.4.42", "lines": ["“The venom’s fumes subdued me in the fight;", "The dragon never struck me with its might.”"]}, {"id": "C7.4.43", "lines": ["He rose from stupor as from sleep; he sought", "Fresh clothing, which his keeper quickly brought."]}, {"id": "C7.4.44", "lines": ["He washed his head and body, then he bowed", "And rolled in dust, invoking God aloud."]}, {"id": "C7.4.45", "lines": ["“Who could have killed this dragon but the one", "Whom God upheld until the deed was done?”"]}, {"id": "C7.4.46", "lines": ["The troops praised God and bowed; Gorgsar’s heart bled", "To see the prince alive whom he thought dead."]}, {"id": "C7.5.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar pitched by the waterside", "His royal tent, while troops camped far and wide."]}, {"id": "C7.5.2", "lines": ["He called for wine and music, friends drawn near,", "Then rose to toast Goshtasb with royal cheer."]}, {"id": "C7.5.3", "lines": ["He summoned Gorgsar, bitter and distressed;", "The grieving captive came at his behest."]}, {"id": "C7.5.4", "lines": ["The prince gave him two cups of royal wine,", "Then laughed about the dragon’s dark design."]}, {"id": "C7.5.5", "lines": ["He said, “You worthless wretch, behold the might", "Of that great dragon’s sucking breath in fight."]}, {"id": "C7.5.6", "lines": ["When I go forward to another stage,", "What grief and toil will next my strength engage?”"]}, {"id": "C7.5.7", "lines": ["Gorgsar replied, “O prince whom stars defend,", "Good fortune is your ever-faithful friend."]}, {"id": "C7.5.8", "lines": ["Tomorrow, when you halt and take your rest,", "A witch will come to greet you as your guest."]}, {"id": "C7.5.9", "lines": ["She has seen many armies drawing near;", "No warrior has filled her soul with fear."]}, {"id": "C7.5.10", "lines": ["She turns dry deserts into seas at will,", "And towers to the sun through magic skill."]}, {"id": "C7.5.11", "lines": ["Men call her Ghul; beware that fatal snare,", "And spare your youth; do not go to her lair."]}, {"id": "C7.5.12", "lines": ["You have overcome the dragon; now turn back,", "And keep your name from dust upon this track.”"]}, {"id": "C7.5.13", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “Tomorrow, knave,", "You shall recount the prowess of the brave."]}, {"id": "C7.5.14", "lines": ["I shall so deal with her that I shall break", "The sorcerers’ proud backs and make hearts quake."]}, {"id": "C7.5.15", "lines": ["The one just God shall grant me strength to tread", "Upon each sorcerer’s defeated head.”"]}, {"id": "C7.5.16", "lines": ["When day put on its yellow robe of gold,", "The sun turned west, and darkness took its hold."]}, {"id": "C7.5.17", "lines": ["He packed the loads and praised Yazdan of all,", "Then marched his army under night’s dark pall."]}, {"id": "C7.5.18", "lines": ["When sun raised up its golden helm on high,", "And made the Ram shine ruby in the sky,"]}, {"id": "C7.5.19", "lines": ["The earth smiled; then he gave his whole command", "To Bishutan, and left it in his hand."]}, {"id": "C7.5.20", "lines": ["He took a golden cup, with wine supplied,", "And called for a fine tanbur for the ride."]}, {"id": "C7.5.21", "lines": ["Though battle lay ahead upon the way,", "He sought a feast, with wine and strings to play."]}, {"id": "C7.5.22", "lines": ["He saw a wood like Paradise ahead,", "As though the heavens planted tulips red."]}, {"id": "C7.5.23", "lines": ["The sun could scarcely pierce the leafy shade,", "With springs like rosewater throughout the glade."]}, {"id": "C7.5.24", "lines": ["He left his steed and chose within the wood", "A fountain’s edge whose shade was cool and good."]}, {"id": "C7.5.25", "lines": ["He grasped the golden goblet in delight,", "And let the wine make glad his heart and sight."]}, {"id": "C7.5.26", "lines": ["He took the tanbur, eager to impart", "In song the longing hidden in his heart:"]}, {"id": "C7.5.27", "lines": ["“Ill-starred am I; no friend comes drinking here,", "No wine companion comes to share my cheer."]}, {"id": "C7.5.28", "lines": ["Instead, I meet the lion and the dread", "Great dragon, with these labors still ahead."]}, {"id": "C7.5.29", "lines": ["It is not mine to see, upon this earth,", "A moon-faced beauty, rich in grace and worth."]}, {"id": "C7.5.30", "lines": ["God would fulfill the longing in my breast", "By granting me a beauty as my guest:"]}, {"id": "C7.5.31", "lines": ["Tall as a cypress, radiant as the sun,", "With musky hair that to her feet would run.”"]}, {"id": "C7.5.32", "lines": ["The witch heard bold Esfandiyar and grew", "Like spring’s red rose when freshened by the dew."]}, {"id": "C7.5.33", "lines": ["She said, “A lion comes with robe and wine", "And music, caught within this snare of mine.”"]}, {"id": "C7.5.34", "lines": ["Foul, wrinkled, and malicious in the gloom,", "She worked her spells and changed her shape and bloom."]}, {"id": "C7.5.35", "lines": ["She took the beauty of a Turkish maid,", "With musk-black hair and cheeks like Chin brocade."]}, {"id": "C7.5.36", "lines": ["Her cheeks like gardens, flowers at her breast,", "She came to where the prince had stopped to rest."]}, {"id": "C7.5.37", "lines": ["The prince, when he beheld her shining face,", "Sang, drank, and played with yet a greater grace."]}, {"id": "C7.5.38", "lines": ["He said, “O just and sovereign God, you guide", "Our feet through wilds and up the mountainside."]}, {"id": "C7.5.39", "lines": ["I wished for such a moon-faced, radiant maid,", "To share my joy within this woodland shade."]}, {"id": "C7.5.40", "lines": ["The just Creator gave what I desired;", "May heart and soul be pure, with worship fired.”"]}, {"id": "C7.5.41", "lines": ["One cup of musk-sweet wine he offered up,", "To make her face glow ruby from the cup."]}, {"id": "C7.5.42", "lines": ["He kept a steel chain, hidden from her sight,", "And watched the witch, alert to any sleight."]}, {"id": "C7.5.43", "lines": ["From Paradise Zardosht had brought this charm", "To Goshtasb, then bound it on the prince’s arm."]}, {"id": "C7.5.44", "lines": ["Esfandiyar then cast it round her neck;", "Her strength collapsed beneath the sudden check."]}, {"id": "C7.5.45", "lines": ["She took a lion’s shape; he raised his blade,", "And answered, steady, bold, and not afraid."]}, {"id": "C7.5.46", "lines": ["“You cannot harm me, though your spells could make", "Your form an iron mountain none could shake."]}, {"id": "C7.5.47", "lines": ["Show your true face; let all disguise be shed;", "My sword shall give its answer now instead.”"]}, {"id": "C7.5.48", "lines": ["A fetid hag in chains now met his sight;", "Her face was black, her head and hair were white."]}, {"id": "C7.5.49", "lines": ["His khanjar struck her head; the witch lay dead.", "May you not see her body or her head."]}, {"id": "C7.5.50", "lines": ["When she lay dead, the daylight turned to gloom,", "And eyes grew dazed, bewildered at her doom."]}, {"id": "C7.5.51", "lines": ["A black wind rose and whirled the dust on high,", "And hid the sun and moon within the sky."]}, {"id": "C7.5.52", "lines": ["He climbed a height and thundered from its crest;", "Then Bishutan came forward with the rest."]}, {"id": "C7.5.53", "lines": ["He said, “Nahang and witch must yield the fight;", "No lion, wolf, or leopard bears your might."]}, {"id": "C7.5.54", "lines": ["May you remain exalted all your days;", "The world has need of love your heart displays.”"]}, {"id": "C7.5.55", "lines": ["That feat made Gorgsar burn with raging ire;", "From his own crown there rose a tongue of fire."]}, {"id": "C7.6.1", "lines": ["The prince laid down his face upon the ground,", "Before the Maker, where all grace is found."]}, {"id": "C7.6.2", "lines": ["He pitched his tent within the forest shade;", "A fitting royal banquet there was laid."]}, {"id": "C7.6.3", "lines": ["He told the executioner, “Now bring", "Bound Gorgsar, shamed and wretched, to your king.”"]}, {"id": "C7.6.4", "lines": ["They brought him bound before the prince in dread;", "He gave him three full cups of wine, deep red."]}, {"id": "C7.6.5", "lines": ["When ruddy wine had warmed the prisoner’s heart,", "The prince then spoke about the witch’s art:"]}, {"id": "C7.6.6", "lines": ["“You luckless Turk, see on that tree the head", "Of that old witch, whose magic now lies dead."]}, {"id": "C7.6.7", "lines": ["You said she bore whole armies to the sea;", "Her head reached the Pleiades, you told me."]}, {"id": "C7.6.8", "lines": ["Now by that witch’s measure, let me hear", "What marvel at the next stage will appear?”"]}, {"id": "C7.6.9", "lines": ["He answered, “Elephant in fierce array,", "A greater danger waits upon the way."]}, {"id": "C7.6.10", "lines": ["Be more than ever wary, brave, and wise;", "A mountain rises high into the skies."]}, {"id": "C7.6.11", "lines": ["A lordly bird has made that height its nest,", "A mountain terror fierce above the rest."]}, {"id": "C7.6.12", "lines": ["The travelers call it Simorgh; you will find", "A flying mountain with a warlike mind."]}, {"id": "C7.6.13", "lines": ["It bears off elephants in single flight,", "And leopards, sea nahangs, to clouded height."]}, {"id": "C7.6.14", "lines": ["No wolf or witch can ever be compared;", "It lifts such prey, its strength not once impaired."]}, {"id": "C7.6.15", "lines": ["Two young ones match its stature and its mind;", "Their purpose and its own are closely aligned."]}, {"id": "C7.6.16", "lines": ["It spreads its wings; the sun’s bright glories fade,", "And earth lies stunned beneath its mighty shade."]}, {"id": "C7.6.17", "lines": ["You cannot strive with Simorgh on that height;", "Turn back; you face a foe of greater might.”"]}, {"id": "C7.6.18", "lines": ["The hero laughed: “My arrows, keen and true,", "Shall stitch its mighty shoulders through and through."]}, {"id": "C7.6.19", "lines": ["My Indian blade shall cleave its breast and throw", "Its head from mountain heights to dust below.”"]}, {"id": "C7.6.20", "lines": ["When shining sunlight turned its face away,", "The sky grew grim to see the end of day,"]}, {"id": "C7.6.21", "lines": ["The warrior-chief urged all the army on,", "And pondered Gorgsar’s words till night was gone."]}, {"id": "C7.6.22", "lines": ["Through all the night he rode on with his force,", "Until the mountain sun resumed its course."]}, {"id": "C7.6.23", "lines": ["When shining sunlight crowned the mountain land,", "The lamp of time renewed the earth and sand."]}, {"id": "C7.6.24", "lines": ["The dale and plain grew bright on every side;", "To Bishutan he gave his troops to guide."]}, {"id": "C7.6.25", "lines": ["He took the box and sword-lined cart and sped", "Like wind along the mountain path ahead."]}, {"id": "C7.6.26", "lines": ["He saw a mountain rearing overhead,", "And halted in the shade its summit spread."]}, {"id": "C7.6.27", "lines": ["Absorbed in thought, he gazed up at the crest,", "And weighed the task that set him to the test."]}, {"id": "C7.6.28", "lines": ["He praised the one Creator, by whose will", "The world stood firm, and stands obedient still."]}, {"id": "C7.6.29", "lines": ["From mountain heights, the Simorgh saw the train", "Behind the box, and heard the karnays’ strain."]}, {"id": "C7.6.30", "lines": ["It swooped like some dark cloud from mountain height,", "And hid from all the sun and moon’s clear light."]}, {"id": "C7.6.31", "lines": ["It sought to snatch the carriage as its prey,", "As leopards seize the game they bear away."]}, {"id": "C7.6.32", "lines": ["Its wings and feathers struck the blades and tore;", "Its strength and splendor were its own no more."]}, {"id": "C7.6.33", "lines": ["It beat with beak and talons, torn and stung,", "Then sank, exhausted, where the sword-blades clung."]}, {"id": "C7.6.34", "lines": ["Its young flew screaming from the rocky nest,", "With tears of blood and terror in each breast."]}, {"id": "C7.6.35", "lines": ["Their shadows blurred the eyes of all below,", "As grief and shrieking crossed the plain of woe."]}, {"id": "C7.6.36", "lines": ["Blood washed the horses, box, and carriage red;", "The wounded bird lay weak, its vigor fled."]}, {"id": "C7.6.37", "lines": ["Then from the box Esfandiyar came out,", "With battle gear and thunder in his shout."]}, {"id": "C7.6.38", "lines": ["In jowshan, Indian sword in his hand,", "He stood; a nahang no bird could withstand."]}, {"id": "C7.6.39", "lines": ["He struck until the bird was hacked apart;", "Now helpless lay that bird of magic art."]}, {"id": "C7.6.40", "lines": ["He praised the moon’s great Lord, who gave him skill", "And strength to gain dominion over ill."]}, {"id": "C7.6.41", "lines": ["He said, “O righteous Judge, O Lord whose might", "And purity and skill uphold the right,"]}, {"id": "C7.6.42", "lines": ["You tore the sorcerers from their settled place,", "And led me to this good through all your grace.”"]}, {"id": "C7.6.43", "lines": ["Then karnays sounded; Bishutan brought near", "The royal tent, his brother’s battle gear."]}, {"id": "C7.6.44", "lines": ["The prince’s son, Iran’s great nobles too,", "With troops and crown and belt, came into view."]}, {"id": "C7.6.45", "lines": ["The carcass hid the plain beneath its weight;", "Bloodied limbs and talons marked its fate."]}, {"id": "C7.6.46", "lines": ["From peak to peak the ground was stained with gore;", "Beneath its plumes, the plain was seen no more."]}, {"id": "C7.6.47", "lines": ["They saw the blood-stained prince, whose radiant face", "Outshone the moon; they praised his strength and grace."]}, {"id": "C7.6.48", "lines": ["Gorgsar heard news and shook with grief and fear,", "And wept, his face turned livid, tear on tear."]}, {"id": "C7.6.49", "lines": ["The prince’s tent was pitched upon the ground,", "With valiant champions gathered all around."]}, {"id": "C7.6.50", "lines": ["They spread rich silk upon the earth to dine,", "Sat at the board and called for cups of wine."]}, {"id": "C7.7.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar, illustrious and strong,", "Called bound Gorgsar before the gathered throng."]}, {"id": "C7.7.2", "lines": ["He gave him three full cups of wine, and red", "Across his cheeks, like blooms, the color spread."]}, {"id": "C7.7.3", "lines": ["The prince addressed him: “Evil through and through,", "Behold what deeds the world has brought to view."]}, {"id": "C7.7.4", "lines": ["The Simorgh, lions, wolf, and dragon all", "Before my arm have met their destined fall."]}, {"id": "C7.7.5", "lines": ["Who waits to bar our passage? Shall we meet", "With water for the beasts and grass to eat?”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.6", "lines": ["Gorgsar then raised his voice and made reply:", "“Famed prince, God was your helper from the sky."]}, {"id": "C7.7.7", "lines": ["The royal tree has come to fruit through you;", "Good fortune ripens in the deeds you do."]}, {"id": "C7.7.8", "lines": ["Tomorrow brings a task no warrior knew,", "No battle-hardened chief believed it true."]}, {"id": "C7.7.9", "lines": ["No gorz or bow or sword will help you fight;", "No way remains for battle or for flight."]}, {"id": "C7.7.10", "lines": ["Snow, spear-deep, will descend upon your road,", "And strange the world will look beneath its load."]}, {"id": "C7.7.11", "lines": ["You and your famous army will be lost", "Within that storm of blinding wind and frost."]}, {"id": "C7.7.12", "lines": ["No marvel if you turn your face from here;", "My words should not offend a prince’s ear."]}, {"id": "C7.7.13", "lines": ["You plunge your troops in blood, yet think to go", "Along some other road that spares them woe."]}, {"id": "C7.7.14", "lines": ["I know that storm will sweep men from their feet,", "Like fruit torn from a tree when tempests beat."]}, {"id": "C7.7.15", "lines": ["And even if you cross that storm-swept plain,", "Thirty desert farsangs of thirst remain."]}, {"id": "C7.7.16", "lines": ["That plain is all hot rock and dust and sand;", "No bird can cross or stand upon that land."]}, {"id": "C7.7.17", "lines": ["No ant or locust crosses that domain;", "No drop of water eases thirst or pain."]}, {"id": "C7.7.18", "lines": ["The sun makes all that barren country boil;", "No horse can find a passage through its soil."]}, {"id": "C7.7.19", "lines": ["No vulture on swift wing can cleave that sky,", "No grasses clothe the rocks that bake and dry."]}, {"id": "C7.7.20", "lines": ["Like powdered tutiya, its sands will run;", "The earth flows loose beneath the burning sun."]}, {"id": "C7.7.21", "lines": ["For forty farsangs still your march must go,", "Till souls collapse and horses falter low."]}, {"id": "C7.7.22", "lines": ["The Ruyin Dezh will rise upon your way;", "No shade will shield you from the glare of day."]}, {"id": "C7.7.23", "lines": ["The barren ground gives nourishment to none;", "Its mighty walls hold converse with the sun."]}, {"id": "C7.7.24", "lines": ["Outside the fortress, beasts find no supply;", "Your army’s mounted strength will fail and die."]}, {"id": "C7.7.25", "lines": ["If ten thousand heroes in jowshans’ scale", "From Iran and Turan should crowd that vale,"]}, {"id": "C7.7.26", "lines": ["Besieging it a hundred years in vain,", "And pouring arrows on its walls like rain,"]}, {"id": "C7.7.27", "lines": ["It would not count its enemies as more", "Than one small knocker tapping at its door.”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.28", "lines": ["The Iranians heard Gorgsar and felt pain,", "And said, “Noble prince, from ruin refrain."]}, {"id": "C7.7.29", "lines": ["Do not, with all your might, pursue your fall;", "If this is true, death waits for one and all."]}, {"id": "C7.7.30", "lines": ["We came to die in battle, not wear out", "Our helms; if he speaks truth, there is no doubt."]}, {"id": "C7.7.31", "lines": ["You have passed through rough roads and beasts of prey,", "And walked through wonders none can count today."]}, {"id": "C7.7.32", "lines": ["No warrior, no heroic Shah of old,", "Could number such a tale of trials told."]}, {"id": "C7.7.33", "lines": ["So, thank the Maker for all victories won,", "And turn back now beneath the living sun."]}, {"id": "C7.7.34", "lines": ["You may return triumphant, and your name", "Before Goshtasb shall shine with lasting fame."]}, {"id": "C7.7.35", "lines": ["If you should march elsewhere, Turan’s whole state", "Will serve your fame and magnify your fate."]}, {"id": "C7.7.36", "lines": ["As Gorgsar said, do not hold life so cheap,", "Nor cast this army where the slaughtered sleep."]}, {"id": "C7.7.37", "lines": ["Now victory has brought us such renown;", "Do not cast life away with head and crown.”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.38", "lines": ["The Pahlevan’s young face grew worn and old", "To hear the counsel that his warriors told."]}, {"id": "C7.7.39", "lines": ["“You came from Iran for advice alone,", "Not for a lofty name to call your own."]}, {"id": "C7.7.40", "lines": ["Where are the Shah’s counsels, his gifts of gold;", "The belts, the saddle, and the cap you hold?"]}, {"id": "C7.7.41", "lines": ["Where are the vows you swore to God on high,", "And to the star that blessed you in the sky?"]}, {"id": "C7.7.42", "lines": ["Why have your feet grown weak upon the way?", "Why have your counsels scattered in dismay?"]}, {"id": "C7.7.43", "lines": ["Turn back in triumph if that course seems right;", "I seek no pleasure but the coming fight."]}, {"id": "C7.7.44", "lines": ["This Div, with words, has made you turn away", "From battle, shrinking from the coming fray."]}, {"id": "C7.7.45", "lines": ["I need no further comrades for this deed;", "My son and brother give me all I need."]}, {"id": "C7.7.46", "lines": ["God is my helper; Fortune rests her head", "Within my lap, and I shall press ahead."]}, {"id": "C7.7.47", "lines": ["With courage, I need no one at my side;", "I take a life or cast my own aside."]}, {"id": "C7.7.48", "lines": ["The foe shall see what valor can command,", "What victory and strength lie in my hand."]}, {"id": "C7.7.49", "lines": ["You shall not lack for tidings of my fame,", "My royal farr, the splendor of my name,"]}, {"id": "C7.7.50", "lines": ["And how, by strength and cunning, I have won", "That hold, by Him who rules Saturn and sun.”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.51", "lines": ["The Iranians looked upon their chief’s face,", "And saw that wrath had darkened all its grace."]}, {"id": "C7.7.52", "lines": ["They came before him, offering excuse:", "“Let not the prince our anxious words accuse."]}, {"id": "C7.7.53", "lines": ["Forgive our fault, if such be your command;", "Our souls and bodies are within your hand."]}, {"id": "C7.7.54", "lines": ["Such has our covenant remained with you,", "And death alone can break our service true."]}, {"id": "C7.7.55", "lines": ["Our grief is for your life, not fear of pain;", "No toil or battle makes our courage wane."]}, {"id": "C7.7.56", "lines": ["So long as any chief among us stands,", "No man will flinch at what the fight demands.”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.57", "lines": ["Their leader grieved at what his anger said,", "Then praised the faithful warriors he had led."]}, {"id": "C7.7.58", "lines": ["He said, “True prowess cannot stay concealed;", "If we return as victors from the field,"]}, {"id": "C7.7.59", "lines": ["No fruit of labor shall be cast away,", "And treasure shall reward you all one day.”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.60", "lines": ["The prince took counsel till the heat withdrew,", "And from the heights a gentle cool wind blew."]}, {"id": "C7.7.61", "lines": ["Then karnay and buq sounded through the night,", "And all the army marched in ordered might."]}, {"id": "C7.7.62", "lines": ["They sped like fire along the desert road,", "And called on Him whose hand all life bestowed."]}, {"id": "C7.7.63", "lines": ["Then dawn rose up above the mountain height,", "And darkness folded back before the light."]}, {"id": "C7.7.64", "lines": ["The sun then hid its face; behind it spread", "A trail of blood that stained the heavens red."]}, {"id": "C7.7.65", "lines": ["That mighty force, with armor, gorz, and spear,", "At last beheld the Sixth Stage drawing near."]}, {"id": "C7.7.66", "lines": ["The spring day had been glorious and fair,", "And gladdened every heart with fragrant air."]}, {"id": "C7.7.67", "lines": ["The prince commanded tents to crown the ground,", "Then food and wine were served to all around."]}, {"id": "C7.7.68", "lines": ["A fierce wind swept across the mountain zone,", "And chilled the prince and soldiers to the bone."]}, {"id": "C7.7.69", "lines": ["The whole world darkened like a raven’s plume,", "And none knew plain from height within the gloom."]}, {"id": "C7.7.70", "lines": ["The darkened mountain vanished under snow;", "The earth was buried under blast and blow."]}, {"id": "C7.7.71", "lines": ["For three full days and nights across the land,", "The wind’s wild fury swept on every hand."]}, {"id": "C7.7.72", "lines": ["The tents and their enclosures soaked straight through,", "And no man stood against the cold that blew."]}, {"id": "C7.7.73", "lines": ["The air was woof, the snow its warp of white;", "The prince stood trapped within that bitter plight."]}, {"id": "C7.7.74", "lines": ["The stricken prince called, “Bishutan, draw near;", "This misery has overwhelmed us here."]}, {"id": "C7.7.75", "lines": ["I faced the dragon’s fumes with warrior might,", "But strength and manhood cannot win this fight."]}, {"id": "C7.7.76", "lines": ["Now lift your hands in prayer to God Most High;", "Call on His name beneath this frozen sky."]}, {"id": "C7.7.77", "lines": ["Offer Him praise, that He may turn aside", "These ills beneath whose weight we now abide."]}, {"id": "C7.7.78", "lines": ["Otherwise, from this hour our lives are lost;", "Our strength is gone, our hopes consumed by frost.”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.79", "lines": ["Then Bishutan approached Yazdan Most High,", "Who guides the good and bad beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C7.7.80", "lines": ["The soldiers lifted up their hands in prayer,", "And sent their countless cries into the air."]}, {"id": "C7.7.81", "lines": ["At once a gentle wind began to rise,", "And drew the clouds away from opened skies."]}, {"id": "C7.7.82", "lines": ["When heaven cleared and courage filled each breast,", "They stood before their Lord, their hearts at rest."]}, {"id": "C7.7.83", "lines": ["Three more days passed; when fourth-day sunlight shone,", "The prince called all his officers alone."]}, {"id": "C7.7.84", "lines": ["He spoke with measured counsel to the band:", "“Leave baggage here; take only arms in hand."]}, {"id": "C7.7.85", "lines": ["Let chiefs with a hundred pack beasts prepare", "The food and water half of them must bear."]}, {"id": "C7.7.86", "lines": ["Load all the rest with stores for our upkeep;", "Leave here the surplus loads we need not keep."]}, {"id": "C7.7.87", "lines": ["The gate of battle opens on our way;", "Let no heart tremble now or turn astray."]}, {"id": "C7.7.88", "lines": ["When any man has lost all hope in God,", "His share of victory sinks beneath the sod."]}, {"id": "C7.7.89", "lines": ["But with God’s help we shall defeat the foe,", "And bring the idol-worshippers down low."]}, {"id": "C7.7.90", "lines": ["Within that fortress lie great stores of treasure,", "And each shall win a crown and wealth past measure.”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.91", "lines": ["The sun put on its yellow robe of light;", "They loaded beasts and marched into the night."]}, {"id": "C7.7.92", "lines": ["As night wore on, the prince heard cranes and sent", "To Gorgsar, troubled, asking what he meant:"]}, {"id": "C7.7.93", "lines": ["“You said no water could be found ahead,", "Nor any place to rest a weary head."]}, {"id": "C7.7.94", "lines": ["Now cranes cry out above us in the sky;", "Why make us fear our water would run dry?”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.95", "lines": ["He answered, “For your beasts, one spring lies here;", "It runs with salt; no sweeter source is near."]}, {"id": "C7.7.96", "lines": ["A second spring is poison; none may share", "Its water, save wild beasts and birds of air.”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.97", "lines": ["The prince said, “I have chosen for my guide", "A man who nurses hatred at my side.”"]}, {"id": "C7.7.98", "lines": ["He drove the army on at greater speed,", "And called on God, the giver, in their need."]}, {"id": "C7.8.1", "lines": ["When one watch of the darkened night had passed,", "A cry rose from the vanguard, sharp and fast."]}, {"id": "C7.8.2", "lines": ["The young prince mounted, urging on his steed,", "And from the center took the army’s lead."]}, {"id": "C7.8.3", "lines": ["When he had passed the troops, his eyes could see", "A river fathoms deep and running free."]}, {"id": "C7.8.4", "lines": ["The driver’s leading hiyun, in the flood,", "Was drowning, trapped beneath the stream in mud."]}, {"id": "C7.8.5", "lines": ["The prince seized both its thighs and pulled it clear;", "Gorgsar, his enemy, looked on in fear."]}, {"id": "C7.8.6", "lines": ["The prince commanded him to come in chains;", "He came with fettered limbs and inward pains."]}, {"id": "C7.8.7", "lines": ["“Base villain,” said the prince, “what trick is played?", "Why were my men through thirst and fear betrayed?"]}, {"id": "C7.8.8", "lines": ["Did you not say no water could be found,", "And sun would burn our bodies on the ground?"]}, {"id": "C7.8.9", "lines": ["Why did you claim this water was but dust,", "And seek to wreck my force, betray my trust?”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.10", "lines": ["Gorgsar replied, “Your army’s overthrow", "Would shine for me with sun and moon’s bright glow."]}, {"id": "C7.8.11", "lines": ["I gain from you but fetters, grief, and hate;", "What should I wish but ruin on your fate?”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.12", "lines": ["The chieftain laughed, amazed by what he heard;", "His wrath grew no more fierce at such a word."]}, {"id": "C7.8.13", "lines": ["He said, “Gorgsar, when I have won the day,", "You shall command the Dezh; cast fear away."]}, {"id": "C7.8.14", "lines": ["The realm is yours if truthful words you give;", "No harm from me shall touch you while you live."]}, {"id": "C7.8.15", "lines": ["Your children and your kin shall rest secure;", "No harm from me shall any one endure.”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.16", "lines": ["Gorgsar grew hopeful at the prince’s word,", "Then kissed the ground and begged his plea be heard."]}, {"id": "C7.8.17", "lines": ["“Your words are past,” the prince said. “Now this tide", "Has not turned into desert, though you lied."]}, {"id": "C7.8.18", "lines": ["Where is the ford? You must direct us right,", "And guide the army safely through this night.”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.19", "lines": ["Gorgsar said, “Iron-bound shafts cannot soar", "With point and feather to the farther shore.”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.20", "lines": ["The hero, filled with wonder, gave command;", "They loosed his bonds and let him freely stand."]}, {"id": "C7.8.21", "lines": ["Gorgsar took up a hiyun’s rein to guide", "The beast into the river’s flowing tide."]}, {"id": "C7.8.22", "lines": ["He crossed the ford; the troops came one by one,", "And followed on the course he had begun."]}, {"id": "C7.8.23", "lines": ["The prince bade them take waterskins; they blew", "Air into them to bear the army through."]}, {"id": "C7.8.24", "lines": ["The horses, light of load, were crossing fast;", "Into the stream the whole great army passed."]}, {"id": "C7.8.25", "lines": ["The army, beasts, and baggage crossed the tide,", "Then formed their left and right wings side by side."]}, {"id": "C7.8.26", "lines": ["The army marched; ten farsangs now remained", "Before the Ruyin Dezh could be attained."]}, {"id": "C7.8.27", "lines": ["The prince sat down to dine, and one stood by,", "A servant with the wine for his supply."]}, {"id": "C7.8.28", "lines": ["Before that lion, at his word, were laid", "His helm and jowshan, zereh, and his blade."]}, {"id": "C7.8.29", "lines": ["The hero summoned Gorgsar by command;", "Unbound, he came before the prince to stand."]}, {"id": "C7.8.30", "lines": ["He said, “Now you are free of chains today;", "Let truthful words be all you have to say."]}, {"id": "C7.8.31", "lines": ["When I cut off Arjasp’s head in the fight,", "And fill Lohrasp’s departed soul with light,"]}, {"id": "C7.8.32", "lines": ["When Kuhram falls, who filled the troops with pain,", "For Farshidvard, the hero he had slain,"]}, {"id": "C7.8.33", "lines": ["When Andariman, who in battle slew", "Our thirty-eight great chiefs, receives his due,"]}, {"id": "C7.8.34", "lines": ["When I avenge Lohrasp and take each head,", "And show what wonders through my deeds are spread,"]}, {"id": "C7.8.35", "lines": ["When lions’ mouths become their burial room,", "And Iran’s vengeance seals the tyrants’ doom,"]}, {"id": "C7.8.36", "lines": ["When arrows stitch their livers through and through,", "Their wives and children taken captive too,"]}, {"id": "C7.8.37", "lines": ["Shall I then call you glad at such a fate,", "Or grieved? Conceal no thought of love or hate.”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.38", "lines": ["With heart constricted, venom in his speech,", "Gorgsar replied, “How long will pride thus preach?"]}, {"id": "C7.8.39", "lines": ["May no just blessing grace your life or breath;", "May every evil star command your death."]}, {"id": "C7.8.40", "lines": ["May blades divide your waist; may your form lie", "Blood-soaked upon the dust beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C7.8.41", "lines": ["May earth become your bed in bitter sleep,", "And dust the garment you forever keep.”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.42", "lines": ["Roused by those words, with wrath too fierce to hide,", "The prince stepped forward, anger in his stride."]}, {"id": "C7.8.43", "lines": ["With Indian sword he struck him on the head,", "And split him crown to breast, and left him dead."]}, {"id": "C7.8.44", "lines": ["He flung him in the river’s rushing tide,", "And fish consumed the traitor where he died."]}, {"id": "C7.8.45", "lines": ["Then brave Esfandiyar mounted his steed,", "And bound his warrior’s belt with eager speed."]}, {"id": "C7.8.46", "lines": ["He climbed a height; Ruyin Dezh lay below,", "Its iron ramparts cold in endless row."]}, {"id": "C7.8.47", "lines": ["Three farsangs high, and forty broad its span;", "No clay or water showed to eye of man."]}, {"id": "C7.8.48", "lines": ["The wall was broad enough for horsemen, four", "Abreast, to ride along its iron floor."]}, {"id": "C7.8.49", "lines": ["When he beheld that wonder, full in sight,", "He sighed and felt his heart grow dark as night."]}, {"id": "C7.8.50", "lines": ["He said, “No strength can take so vast a place;", "This wretched road has brought me this disgrace."]}, {"id": "C7.8.51", "lines": ["Alas for all our battles, toil, and pain;", "Regret is now the only fruit we gain.”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.52", "lines": ["Two Turks were on the plain; four hounds ran near,", "Swift dogs that in full chase could capture deer."]}, {"id": "C7.8.53", "lines": ["His spear unhorsed them; to the height he brought", "The pair on foot, to learn the news he sought."]}, {"id": "C7.8.54", "lines": ["“What splendid hold is this? Speak what you know;", "How many horsemen guard its courts below?”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.55", "lines": ["They told of King Arjasp, and of the height", "And breadth of that great Hold, its iron might."]}, {"id": "C7.8.56", "lines": ["“One gate faces Iran, one Chin; inside", "A hundred thousand swordsmen there reside."]}, {"id": "C7.8.57", "lines": ["Renowned and proud, they serve Arjasp’s command,", "And bow like slaves before his ruling hand."]}, {"id": "C7.8.58", "lines": ["Should fresh grain fail, their stores will still supply", "Ten years of food, and never once run dry."]}, {"id": "C7.8.59", "lines": ["If the Shah asks it, Chin and Machin yield", "A hundred thousand riders for the field."]}, {"id": "C7.8.60", "lines": ["No need can force him to seek help outside;", "His food and fighting men are well supplied.”"]}, {"id": "C7.8.61", "lines": ["With Indian sword he struck the pair and slew", "Those simple-hearted men who told him true."]}, {"id": "C7.9.1", "lines": ["He then returned within his guarded tent,", "And from the council all the strangers sent."]}, {"id": "C7.9.2", "lines": ["Then Bishutan came in and took his seat,", "To speak of war and how the foes might meet."]}, {"id": "C7.9.3", "lines": ["The warrior said, “We might assault in vain", "This hold for years, with only loss and pain,"]}, {"id": "C7.9.4", "lines": ["Unless I now accept a lowlier role,", "And try some cunning plan to reach my goal."]}, {"id": "C7.9.5", "lines": ["Keep watch here at all hours with steady care,", "And guard the army from the hostile snare."]}, {"id": "C7.9.6", "lines": ["A man is worthy of a lofty throne", "Who fears no hostile army on his own,"]}, {"id": "C7.9.7", "lines": ["Who fears no leopard on the mountainside,", "Nor dread nahang within the waters wide,"]}, {"id": "C7.9.8", "lines": ["But works by craft, then force, as need is found,", "Now climbing high, now moving near the ground."]}, {"id": "C7.9.9", "lines": ["I shall approach the fortress in disguise,", "A merchant, hidden from all watching eyes."]}, {"id": "C7.9.10", "lines": ["Each book of learning I shall search and read,", "And gather every snare and plot I need."]}, {"id": "C7.9.11", "lines": ["Keep scouts and watchmen always on the way;", "Let knowledge guide you, lest your judgment stray."]}, {"id": "C7.9.12", "lines": ["If smoke by day should meet the watchman’s sight,", "Or fire by night should blaze with sunlight’s might,"]}, {"id": "C7.9.13", "lines": ["Then know that I have kindled that bright brand;", "That flame is mine; no trick of hostile hand."]}, {"id": "C7.9.14", "lines": ["Array the troops and lead them out; let each", "Bear jowshan, helm, and gorz within his reach."]}, {"id": "C7.9.15", "lines": ["Raise up my flag without the least delay,", "And set the troops at center in array."]}, {"id": "C7.9.16", "lines": ["Drive on with ox-head gorz, and deal such blows", "That you seem Esfandiyar to all your foes.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.17", "lines": ["He called the cameleer and bade him stay", "Before Bishutan, kneeling, to obey:"]}, {"id": "C7.9.18", "lines": ["“Bring me a hundred camels, strong to bear,", "All red of coat, with proud and handsome air.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.19", "lines": ["Ten camels bore gold dinars in the train;", "Five, Chin brocade; five, gems of every vein."]}, {"id": "C7.9.20", "lines": ["A golden throne and crown were loaded too,", "Among the precious stones of every hue."]}, {"id": "C7.9.21", "lines": ["He brought forth eighty pairs of covered chests,", "With hidden fastenings, for their hidden guests."]}, {"id": "C7.9.22", "lines": ["He chose eight score of mighty men, well tried,", "Who would not let his secret plans spread wide."]}, {"id": "C7.9.23", "lines": ["He hid them in the chests with careful art,", "Then bound the baggage fast for them to start."]}, {"id": "C7.9.24", "lines": ["He chose some twenty chiefs, discreet and strong,", "His proud swordsmen, to bring the train along."]}, {"id": "C7.9.25", "lines": ["He set those chiefs to guide the laden train,", "As cameleers, each with a camel’s rein."]}, {"id": "C7.9.26", "lines": ["With shoes upon his feet, a coarse wool gown,", "He went as one who sought no warrior’s crown."]}, {"id": "C7.9.27", "lines": ["With jewels, gold, and silver packed for trade,", "He neared the Dezh, his merchant’s role well played."]}, {"id": "C7.9.28", "lines": ["He led the way; when camel bells rang round,", "The Dezh’s chief men came hurrying to the sound."]}, {"id": "C7.9.29", "lines": ["They talked at length, grew eager, and began:", "“A merchant comes, a most unusual man."]}, {"id": "C7.9.30", "lines": ["He sells for silver wares that are worth gold.”", "So through the fortress ran the story told."]}, {"id": "C7.9.31", "lines": ["The dealers and the nobles came to buy,", "And asked, “What precious goods within these lie?”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.32", "lines": ["He answered, “First I need to see your king,", "And spread before him all I came to bring."]}, {"id": "C7.9.33", "lines": ["When he commands, my wealth I shall display,", "And bring its splendor to the light of day.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.34", "lines": ["He set the camel cargo down, then went", "To seek the king and further his intent."]}, {"id": "C7.9.35", "lines": ["He took a horse, two robes of Chin brocade,", "Whose brilliant sleeves their woven art displayed."]}, {"id": "C7.9.36", "lines": ["He took a bowl of gems, a royal hoard,", "And coins of gold to scatter for the lord."]}, {"id": "C7.9.37", "lines": ["Silk veiled the bowl; above, below, he spread", "Both musk and abir, fragrant on the thread."]}, {"id": "C7.9.38", "lines": ["In fine brocade, perfumed, he sought the king,", "With all the gifts his cunning bade him bring."]}, {"id": "C7.9.39", "lines": ["Before the king he scattered coins of gold,", "Then spoke as one whose wares were bought and sold:"]}, {"id": "C7.9.40", "lines": ["“May wisdom ever grace the king’s command;", "I am a merchant, trading through the land."]}, {"id": "C7.9.41", "lines": ["My father was a Turk; my mother came", "Of noble stock, a house of honored name."]}, {"id": "C7.9.42", "lines": ["In Turan I buy goods, then take my gain", "By trade in Iran or the warriors’ plain."]}, {"id": "C7.9.43", "lines": ["A camel train of merchandise I bring,", "With cloth and gems and many a costly thing,"]}, {"id": "C7.9.44", "lines": ["With jewels, crowns, and perfumes rich and rare;", "I seek out buyers for the goods I bear."]}, {"id": "C7.9.45", "lines": ["I left my goods outside Ruyin Dezh’s gate,", "Assured your care would guard them from ill fate."]}, {"id": "C7.9.46", "lines": ["If you permit the cameleers to lead", "The caravan inside, you meet my need."]}, {"id": "C7.9.47", "lines": ["Your fortune keeps me free of all alarm;", "Your loving shadow shelters me from harm.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.48", "lines": ["Arjasp replied, “Be happy and secure;", "No harm within Turan shall you endure."]}, {"id": "C7.9.49", "lines": ["And should you journey on, have no more fear;", "In Chin or Machin, you are safe as here.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.50", "lines": ["In Ruyin Dezh he bade the merchant dwell,", "His gold secure, and all protected well:"]}, {"id": "C7.9.51", "lines": ["A spacious house, a shop before the court,", "Where he could trade and have the king’s support."]}, {"id": "C7.9.52", "lines": ["With chests upon their backs, they brought the train,", "Each with a hand upon a camel’s rein."]}, {"id": "C7.9.53", "lines": ["A thoughtful man approached: “What lies concealed", "Within those chests you carry, tightly sealed?”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.54", "lines": ["The carrier replied, “We bear our fate;", "Upon our shoulders death has laid its weight.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.55", "lines": ["Esfandiyar arranged his wares to bring", "His shop to bloom with colors like the spring."]}, {"id": "C7.9.56", "lines": ["On every side the eager buyers sprang,", "And through the place the din of trading rang."]}, {"id": "C7.9.57", "lines": ["The night went by; at dawn the prince arose,", "And toward the palace walked in merchant’s clothes."]}, {"id": "C7.9.58", "lines": ["He kissed the ground before Arjasp’s high seat,", "And praised him with a merchant’s words discreet:"]}, {"id": "C7.9.59", "lines": ["“My cameleers and I have crossed the plain;", "Through dust and toil we brought the laden train."]}, {"id": "C7.9.60", "lines": ["The crowns and bracelets in them well may grace", "A sovereign king of your illustrious race."]}, {"id": "C7.9.61", "lines": ["Let him who keeps your treasury see the store,", "And choose what suits its wealth; I ask no more."]}, {"id": "C7.9.62", "lines": ["I shall rejoice in anything you take;", "A king’s acceptance crowns the gifts I make."]}, {"id": "C7.9.63", "lines": ["The merchant’s part is only praise and prayer,", "And humble thanks beneath a monarch’s care.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.64", "lines": ["Arjasp then smiled on him and showed him grace,", "And set him in a more distinguished place."]}, {"id": "C7.9.65", "lines": ["He asked his name; the prince concealed his aim,", "And answered him, “Kharrad, my lord, by name.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.66", "lines": ["The king replied, “Good merchant, be at ease;", "Come freely here whenever you may please."]}, {"id": "C7.9.67", "lines": ["My doors stand open; enter without fear.”", "He asked what news the merchant chanced to hear."]}, {"id": "C7.9.68", "lines": ["Of both realms’ troops, he asked, and travel’s pain;", "The prince replied, “Five months we crossed the plain.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.69", "lines": ["The king then asked what Iran’s people say", "Of Esfandiyar and Gorgsar on the way."]}, {"id": "C7.9.70", "lines": ["He said, “My lord, men speak as rumors guide:", "Some say, in anger, he his sire defied."]}, {"id": "C7.9.71", "lines": ["Some say, from Barghavan he led his force", "To take the Seven Stages as his course,"]}, {"id": "C7.9.72", "lines": ["To fight in Turan, where his purpose lay,", "And make Arjasp for all his wrongs now pay.”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.73", "lines": ["Arjasp laughed: “No man grown wise and old", "Would credit such a tale as you have told."]}, {"id": "C7.9.74", "lines": ["Should any vulture cross the Stages’ span,", "Then call me Ahriman, no mortal man!”"]}, {"id": "C7.9.75", "lines": ["The prince bent down and kissed the royal floor,", "Then left in joy and passed the palace door."]}, {"id": "C7.9.76", "lines": ["He opened up his shop to sell and buy;", "The fortress rang with every merchant’s cry."]}, {"id": "C7.9.77", "lines": ["He traded on; for wares worth gold, his price", "Was one small silver coin, which would suffice."]}, {"id": "C7.10.1", "lines": ["The sun went down; the buyers went away,", "And trade was ended for another day."]}, {"id": "C7.10.2", "lines": ["His sisters left the palace, weeping, worn,", "With jars of water on their shoulders borne."]}, {"id": "C7.10.3", "lines": ["Heartbroken, bowed beneath affliction’s weight,", "They came in shame before the merchant’s gate."]}, {"id": "C7.10.4", "lines": ["When Esfandiyar saw their grief draw near,", "He hid his face from them, his heart in fear."]}, {"id": "C7.10.5", "lines": ["Their plight had filled his heart with deep dismay;", "Beneath his coarse wool gown he hid away."]}, {"id": "C7.10.6", "lines": ["Two streams of bloody tears ran down each face,", "As both drew near him in their deep disgrace."]}, {"id": "C7.10.7", "lines": ["The hapless women questioned him and said,", "“O wealthy merchant, fortune crown your head."]}, {"id": "C7.10.8", "lines": ["May all your days and nights be prosperous still,", "And nobles gladly serve your sovereign will."]}, {"id": "C7.10.9", "lines": ["Of Iran, Goshtasb, what news can you tell?", "And Esfandiyar; is our brother well?"]}, {"id": "C7.10.10", "lines": ["We two, the daughters of the king of kings,", "Are captives here, deprived of royal things."]}, {"id": "C7.10.11", "lines": ["Barefoot, unveiled, in wicked men’s command,", "We carry water through this hostile land."]}, {"id": "C7.10.12", "lines": ["Our father has glad days and peaceful nights,", "While we go shamed beneath the strangers’ sights."]}, {"id": "C7.10.13", "lines": ["Blessed is she whose shroud conceals her shame,", "Beyond the public gaze and all its blame."]}, {"id": "C7.10.14", "lines": ["The tears we shed are blood from inward pain;", "Become our healer, and relieve our bane."]}, {"id": "C7.10.15", "lines": ["If you have any news of home to share,", "Your words may heal the poison of despair.”"]}, {"id": "C7.10.16", "lines": ["Beneath his robe he gave a sudden shout;", "Both sisters shook with fear as it rang out."]}, {"id": "C7.10.17", "lines": ["“May Esfandiyar die, and perish too", "Whoever speaks his name, as now you do."]}, {"id": "C7.10.18", "lines": ["May unjust Goshtasb also meet that end;", "May crown and belt no king like him attend."]}, {"id": "C7.10.19", "lines": ["Do you not see I trade to earn my bread?", "I work to keep myself supplied and fed.”"]}, {"id": "C7.10.20", "lines": ["Homahyi knew his voice; the sound brought peace,", "And gave her anxious heart a brief release."]}, {"id": "C7.10.21", "lines": ["Yet though she knew him by his voice alone,", "She kept that knowledge hidden and unknown."]}, {"id": "C7.10.22", "lines": ["She stood before him stricken by her pain,", "And let her tears descend like pouring rain."]}, {"id": "C7.10.23", "lines": ["Her clothes were torn, her feet were in the dust,", "Her soul afraid of Arjasp’s wrath unjust."]}, {"id": "C7.10.24", "lines": ["The watchful prince perceived that Homahyi knew,", "And from beneath his veil his face he drew."]}, {"id": "C7.10.25", "lines": ["His eyes were wet, his heart with blood oppressed;", "His sunlike face revealed his soul’s unrest."]}, {"id": "C7.10.26", "lines": ["He marveled at the world’s relentless grip,", "And in his bitter anger bit his lip."]}, {"id": "C7.10.27", "lines": ["He said, “My sisters, keep our secret sealed;", "For these few days, let nothing be revealed."]}, {"id": "C7.10.28", "lines": ["I came for war, through hardship, to reclaim", "Our honor and to wipe away our shame."]}, {"id": "C7.10.29", "lines": ["The daughters carry water, the son weeps;", "Their father, free of sorrow, sweetly sleeps."]}, {"id": "C7.10.30", "lines": ["Let sky be father, earth be mother here;", "Give no such times your blessing or your cheer.”"]}, {"id": "C7.10.31", "lines": ["He left the shop, and to Arjasp he raced:", "“May life and joy be yours, by fortune graced."]}, {"id": "C7.10.32", "lines": ["A deep sea lay along the road I went,", "Unknown to merchants in its vast extent."]}, {"id": "C7.10.33", "lines": ["Then from the sea a violent wind arose,", "And left us fearing how our lives would close."]}, {"id": "C7.10.34", "lines": ["The boatman said, ‘I never saw its peer’;", "We all were wretched, sick with mortal fear."]}, {"id": "C7.10.35", "lines": ["Aboard, we wept; our terror mounted higher,", "As though our bodies roasted on fierce fire."]}, {"id": "C7.10.36", "lines": ["I swore by God, the only Judge and Guide:", "If I escape alive from storm and tide,"]}, {"id": "C7.10.37", "lines": ["Then in each realm where any monarch reigns,", "I shall hold feasts, released from all these pains."]}, {"id": "C7.10.38", "lines": ["I shall give gifts to everyone who calls,", "And honor every beggar in my halls."]}, {"id": "C7.10.39", "lines": ["Now let the monarch lend a gracious ear,", "And grant the heartfelt plea I offer here."]}, {"id": "C7.10.40", "lines": ["I wish to bid your foremost chiefs attend,", "The men whose deeds and prowess you commend."]}, {"id": "C7.10.41", "lines": ["This feast will bring my troubled heart release,", "And grant my soul its ornament of peace.”"]}, {"id": "C7.10.42", "lines": ["Arjasp was pleased; his head with wind was filled,", "His foolish pride by all these honors thrilled."]}, {"id": "C7.10.43", "lines": ["He bade the nobles and the men of fame", "Attend the feast held in the merchant’s name."]}, {"id": "C7.10.44", "lines": ["“If he gives wine, then drink and take your fill,", "And feast with Kharrad freely at your will.”"]}, {"id": "C7.10.45", "lines": ["The prince replied, “O king of noble birth,", "Wise ruler, sovereign of the spacious earth,"]}, {"id": "C7.10.46", "lines": ["My house is small; your hall is grand and high;", "Let us feast on the rampart, near the sky."]}, {"id": "C7.10.47", "lines": ["Now summer is upon us; fires shall flare,", "And wine shall free your honored chiefs from care.”"]}, {"id": "C7.10.48", "lines": ["Arjasp replied, “Sit where it suits you best;", "Within the palace, you shall be my guest.”"]}, {"id": "C7.10.49", "lines": ["The joyful Pahlevan went back and stacked", "Great loads of wood upon the roof, close-packed."]}, {"id": "C7.10.50", "lines": ["They slaughtered horses, lambs, and bore the meat", "Up to the fortress roof for all to eat."]}, {"id": "C7.10.51", "lines": ["The wood he heaped upon the fortress height", "Sent smoke that hid the very sky from sight."]}, {"id": "C7.10.52", "lines": ["When all had eaten, then he brought the wine,", "And had it served to all who came to dine."]}, {"id": "C7.10.53", "lines": ["The nobles left, all drunken, with a spray", "Of fair narcissus carried on their way."]}, {"id": "C7.11.1", "lines": ["Night came; the prince lit fire upon the height;", "Its heat seemed to consume the sky that night."]}, {"id": "C7.11.2", "lines": ["The watchman from the lookout saw the blaze,", "And all the air was filled with smoky haze."]}, {"id": "C7.11.3", "lines": ["He hurried back, with joy upon his face,", "As though he and the wind were in a race."]}, {"id": "C7.11.4", "lines": ["He told him all he saw of flame and fume;", "And Bishutan replied amid the gloom:"]}, {"id": "C7.11.5", "lines": ["“What lion could with brave men’s guile compare?", "What elephant could match the craft they bear?”"]}, {"id": "C7.11.6", "lines": ["Bronze karnays rang; brass tabiras replied,", "And gavdam horns resounded far and wide."]}, {"id": "C7.11.7", "lines": ["The army crossed the plain to the Dezh’s wall;", "Its dust rose high and hid the sun from all."]}, {"id": "C7.11.8", "lines": ["All troops wore armor, helms upon each head;", "From every heart a rain of blood was shed."]}, {"id": "C7.11.9", "lines": ["News filled the Dezh: “A mighty force draws near;", "The world is dust, the face of day unclear.”"]}, {"id": "C7.11.10", "lines": ["The Hold rang out with Esfandiyar’s name;", "Woe’s tree bore bitter gourds as trouble came."]}, {"id": "C7.11.11", "lines": ["Arjasp put on his jowshan, rubbed his hands,", "And gave the lion-catcher his commands."]}, {"id": "C7.11.12", "lines": ["“Take troops,” he said, “take gorz and sword and shaft.”", "He called to Turk-Khan, versed in battlecraft:"]}, {"id": "C7.11.13", "lines": ["“And you, Turk-Khan, proud chief, ride out in pride;", "Take twelve full thousand warriors at your side."]}, {"id": "C7.11.14", "lines": ["Choose famous men, well tested in the field;", "Discover who has come with sword and shield."]}, {"id": "C7.11.15", "lines": ["Learn what they seek by riding out this way,", "What purpose brings this army to the fray.”"]}, {"id": "C7.11.16", "lines": ["Turk-Khan went out, an interpreter near,", "To view the troops in all their battle gear."]}, {"id": "C7.11.17", "lines": ["He saw their jowshans, ready for attack,", "A leopard blazoned on a flag of black."]}, {"id": "C7.11.18", "lines": ["Bishutan held the center of the band;", "His warriors stood with blood on every hand."]}, {"id": "C7.11.19", "lines": ["He bore Esfandiyar’s own gorz, and placed", "Upon a famed warhorse, the foemen faced."]}, {"id": "C7.11.20", "lines": ["He seemed Esfandiyar himself, no less;", "They called him Shah of Iran in the press."]}, {"id": "C7.11.21", "lines": ["He formed his wings to left and right; the air", "Grew thick with dust that dimmed the daylight’s glare."]}, {"id": "C7.11.22", "lines": ["Bright diamond spearheads struck in such a rain,", "That clouds of crimson seemed to drench the plain."]}, {"id": "C7.11.23", "lines": ["Both armies moved together toward the fight,", "Each warrior eager for the clash of might."]}, {"id": "C7.11.24", "lines": ["Then Nush Azar, the swordsman, galloped out,", "And challenged all Turan with ringing shout."]}, {"id": "C7.11.25", "lines": ["Turk-Khan rode out to strike his foe down dead,", "And cast upon the dust his severed head."]}, {"id": "C7.11.26", "lines": ["When Bahman saw him on the battlefield,", "He drew his sword, its naked steel revealed."]}, {"id": "C7.11.27", "lines": ["He then split Turk-Khan in two at the waist;", "Kuhram felt grief and dread at what he faced."]}, {"id": "C7.11.28", "lines": ["Bahman charged through the center; rank and name", "Meant nothing; lord and trooper were the same."]}, {"id": "C7.11.29", "lines": ["Thus army clashed with army in the fray;", "Black clouds of dust obscured the light of day."]}, {"id": "C7.11.30", "lines": ["Kuhram flew before the Iranian force,", "And drove his troops along their homeward course."]}, {"id": "C7.11.31", "lines": ["He said, “O famous monarch, crowned with light,", "A mighty force from Iran comes to fight."]}, {"id": "C7.11.32", "lines": ["Its leader shines among the warriors’ throng,", "Like Esfandiyar in form and stature strong."]}, {"id": "C7.11.33", "lines": ["None like him ever reached this fortress wall;", "He holds the spear that you may well recall."]}, {"id": "C7.11.34", "lines": ["He holds the very spear you saw him wield", "At Gombadan, upon the fortress field.”"]}, {"id": "C7.11.35", "lines": ["The words distressed Arjasp and stirred old feud;", "He sent the Turks forth in a wrathful mood."]}, {"id": "C7.11.36", "lines": ["“Out to the plain! Surround them, one and all,", "And let the raging lion sound your call."]}, {"id": "C7.11.37", "lines": ["Leave none alive; erase their very name,", "Let no man speak of them or spread their fame!”"]}, {"id": "C7.11.38", "lines": ["They marched with wounded hearts toward the fray,", "And thirst for vengeance drove them on their way."]}, {"id": "C7.12.1", "lines": ["As darkness deepened, he prepared to fight;", "He donned his battle armor in the night."]}, {"id": "C7.12.2", "lines": ["He raised the chest-lids so that air could flow", "To those concealed and hidden from the foe."]}, {"id": "C7.12.3", "lines": ["He brought them roasted meat and wine to share,", "With battle gear and clothing fit to wear."]}, {"id": "C7.12.4", "lines": ["When they had eaten, each received full measure,", "Three cups of wine, which filled their hearts with pleasure."]}, {"id": "C7.12.5", "lines": ["He said, “This night brings danger; win your name,", "For deeds done here may earn us lasting fame."]}, {"id": "C7.12.6", "lines": ["Show all your strength; stand fast, what may befall,", "And make Yazdan your refuge over all.”"]}, {"id": "C7.12.7", "lines": ["From those bold warriors tested for the deed,", "He formed three bands according to his need."]}, {"id": "C7.12.8", "lines": ["The first he sent within the stronghold’s heart,", "To fight all those they met in every part."]}, {"id": "C7.12.9", "lines": ["He sent the second band to hold the gate,", "And bade them let no clash of arms abate."]}, {"id": "C7.12.10", "lines": ["He told the third band, “None must live or flee;", "Not one who drank wine last night here with me."]}, {"id": "C7.12.11", "lines": ["Let not a trace remain when they are dead;", "Take up your khanjars; sever every head.”"]}, {"id": "C7.12.12", "lines": ["With twenty valiant men he took his way,", "And gave the rest their charge without delay."]}, {"id": "C7.12.13", "lines": ["He roared in jowshan, lion loosed for fight,", "And reached Arjasp’s great palace in the night."]}, {"id": "C7.12.14", "lines": ["Homahyi heard the tumult through the hall,", "And with Bih Afrid hurried at the call."]}, {"id": "C7.12.15", "lines": ["Blood-tears had veiled their faces as they neared", "Their brother, who before them now appeared."]}, {"id": "C7.12.16", "lines": ["He saw his two veiled sisters, fresh as spring,", "And spoke of what this night of war might bring:"]}, {"id": "C7.12.17", "lines": ["“Run swift as dust before the wind,” he cried;", "“Go to my market quarters; leave my side."]}, {"id": "C7.12.18", "lines": ["My gold and silver lie within that store;", "Go to my quarters; stay with me no more."]}, {"id": "C7.12.19", "lines": ["Avoid this fight, whatever lies ahead,", "Whether I win the crown or lose my head.”"]}, {"id": "C7.12.20", "lines": ["He turned from them, his purpose fixed and clear,", "And stormed the inner palace without fear."]}, {"id": "C7.12.21", "lines": ["He entered with an Indian sword in hand,", "And cut down nobles of the royal band."]}, {"id": "C7.12.22", "lines": ["The audience chamber of that storied court", "Was choked with dead of every rank and sort."]}, {"id": "C7.12.23", "lines": ["With wounded, crushed, and slaughtered men around,", "A troubled sea now seemed to flood the ground."]}, {"id": "C7.12.24", "lines": ["Arjasp awoke, alarmed by all the din,", "And rose in fury at the clash within."]}, {"id": "C7.12.25", "lines": ["In Roman helm and jowshan all arrayed,", "He gripped his khanjar with its gleaming blade."]}, {"id": "C7.12.26", "lines": ["With battle fury burning in his breast,", "He roared aloud, by blood and wrath possessed."]}, {"id": "C7.12.27", "lines": ["From palace halls brave Esfandiyar sprang,", "His Indian sword held ready as steel rang."]}, {"id": "C7.12.28", "lines": ["He cried, “This merchant brings the wares long due:", "A blade of vengeance, sharp and proven true."]}, {"id": "C7.12.29", "lines": ["This gift from Lohrasp bears a royal seal;", "Goshtasb’s own mark upon its deadly steel.”"]}, {"id": "C7.12.30", "lines": ["They closed in savage combat, blade to blade,", "And sword-strokes rang where death already played."]}, {"id": "C7.12.31", "lines": ["At waist and head they struck with blow on blow,", "Till fierce Arjasp’s attack grew faint and slow."]}, {"id": "C7.12.32", "lines": ["No part of him was whole; he streamed with gore,", "His elephant-like bulk fell to the floor."]}, {"id": "C7.12.33", "lines": ["Then Esfandiyar struck off Arjasp’s head,", "And with it lay his empire’s power dead."]}, {"id": "C7.12.34", "lines": ["Such is the turning of the worldly wheel:", "Now sweetness, now the poison we must feel."]}, {"id": "C7.12.35", "lines": ["Why bind your heart to what must fade and go?", "Spare yourself toil; you cannot stay, you know."]}, {"id": "C7.12.36", "lines": ["With Arjasp slain, his uproar rose so high", "It reached to Saturn in the distant sky."]}, {"id": "C7.12.37", "lines": ["He ordered candles lit; their flames shone bright", "Throughout the palace, filling it with light."]}, {"id": "C7.12.38", "lines": ["He left the harem in a servant’s care,", "And took its light away, and left it bare."]}, {"id": "C7.12.39", "lines": ["He set his seal upon the treasure door;", "No rival stood against him anymore."]}, {"id": "C7.12.40", "lines": ["He mounted, Indian sword still in his hand;", "Choice Arab steeds were saddled for his band."]}, {"id": "C7.12.41", "lines": ["He gave his sisters horses, then withdrew", "Through Arjasp’s gate with all his chosen few."]}, {"id": "C7.12.42", "lines": ["From Dezh eight score of chosen riders came,", "All tried in war, all resolute in aim."]}, {"id": "C7.12.43", "lines": ["He left the gate in noble Sawa’s care,", "With several of Iran’s chiefs to share."]}, {"id": "C7.12.44", "lines": ["He said, “Bar Turks from entry once I go;", "When you judge I have reached our force below,"]}, {"id": "C7.12.45", "lines": ["Cry from the lookout, ‘May King Goshtasb’s crown", "And head be blessed!’ Let that great shout ring down."]}, {"id": "C7.12.46", "lines": ["When fleeing Turks rush headlong toward this tower,", "Cast down Arjasp’s head to break their power.”"]}, {"id": "C7.12.47", "lines": ["He swept the field and brought the Turks down low;", "Then joined his brother’s troops, who faced the foe."]}, {"id": "C7.12.48", "lines": ["Bishutan praised him; all his warriors gazed", "Upon such youthful courage, left amazed."]}, {"id": "C7.13.1", "lines": ["When the pale moon sank from her silver throne,", "And three long watches of the dark had flown,"]}, {"id": "C7.13.2", "lines": ["The watchman shouted loudly from the height,", "“Goshtasb is Shah, with fortune burning bright."]}, {"id": "C7.13.3", "lines": ["May young Esfandiyar forever stand,", "With sky and moon and fortune at his hand."]}, {"id": "C7.13.4", "lines": ["Avenging old Lohrasp, his sword has shed", "Proud Arjasp’s blood and struck away his head."]}, {"id": "C7.13.5", "lines": ["He cast the king to dust and raised on high", "Goshtasb’s great name and banner to the sky.”"]}, {"id": "C7.13.6", "lines": ["The Turks all heard; Kuhram grew dark at heart,", "Struck cold by those loud cries and fear’s sharp dart."]}, {"id": "C7.13.7", "lines": ["He said to Andariman, “Cries at night", "Cannot be hidden; what has caused this plight?"]}, {"id": "C7.13.8", "lines": ["What do you think? Who dares beside the king", "To raise his voice and make the darkness ring?"]}, {"id": "C7.13.9", "lines": ["Send men to find him out and take his head,", "Whoever calls such omens, spreading dread."]}, {"id": "C7.13.10", "lines": ["If watchmen play such games while battles rage,", "Our chiefs will face a peril hard to gauge."]}, {"id": "C7.13.11", "lines": ["If one within our household serves the foe,", "And strengthens hostile hearts with words of woe,"]}, {"id": "C7.13.12", "lines": ["Then with an iron gorz we break his brain,", "And make him answer for this traitorous strain.”"]}, {"id": "C7.13.13", "lines": ["The watchman’s cry went on and would not cease;", "Kuhram’s fierce anger found no inward peace."]}, {"id": "C7.13.14", "lines": ["The cries from every side assailed their ears,", "And filled the listening nobles with new fears."]}, {"id": "C7.13.15", "lines": ["The soldiers said, “These cries exceed all bounds;", "The watchman fills the night with dreadful sounds."]}, {"id": "C7.13.16", "lines": ["First drive the foe within our walls away;", "Then find a way to face their troops’ array.”"]}, {"id": "C7.13.17", "lines": ["Kuhram felt anguish tighten in his breast,", "And fear of what had happened gave no rest."]}, {"id": "C7.13.18", "lines": ["He told the troops, “The king’s affairs cause grief;", "This army’s plight allows me no relief."]}, {"id": "C7.13.19", "lines": ["We must return at once, without delay;", "I cannot tell what follows from this fray.”"]}, {"id": "C7.13.20", "lines": ["At once they left the field in haste and fear;", "Then mailed Esfandiyar came thundering near."]}, {"id": "C7.13.21", "lines": ["With ox-head gorz he followed where they fled,", "His armor on, his foes still just ahead."]}, {"id": "C7.13.22", "lines": ["When Kuhram reached the gateway, looking back,", "He saw Iran’s troops following his track."]}, {"id": "C7.13.23", "lines": ["He cried, “What choice remains, but to engage", "The brave Esfandiyar in battle’s rage?"]}, {"id": "C7.13.24", "lines": ["Draw all your swords; let blades convey our word,", "And let the khanjar’s message now be heard.”"]}, {"id": "C7.13.25", "lines": ["But fortune frowned; those chiefs met evil fate,", "And every hope of victory came too late."]}, {"id": "C7.13.26", "lines": ["The armies struck each other through the fray;", "The chiefs of Chin met doom at break of day."]}, {"id": "C7.13.27", "lines": ["Then from the Dezh the warriors hurled below", "Arjasp’s cut head, blood-darkened by the blow."]}, {"id": "C7.13.28", "lines": ["They flung the head of him who slew Lohrasp;", "A Turkish wail rose high for King Arjasp."]}, {"id": "C7.13.29", "lines": ["With helmets lifted off, they ceased the fight,", "And grief engulfed the troops at that grim sight."]}, {"id": "C7.13.30", "lines": ["Arjasp’s two sons wept in that dreadful hour,", "As though fierce fire had caught them in its power."]}, {"id": "C7.13.31", "lines": ["The army knew whose work had brought such woe,", "And whom to mourn amid that overthrow."]}, {"id": "C7.13.32", "lines": ["They cried, “O generous king, our valiant chief,", "Our hero and sepahbod, mourned in grief!"]}, {"id": "C7.13.33", "lines": ["May he who slew you perish by the blade;", "May all his days be dark, his hopes betrayed."]}, {"id": "C7.13.34", "lines": ["To whom shall we entrust our baggage train?", "Whose flag shall on the army’s right remain?"]}, {"id": "C7.13.35", "lines": ["Since now the center lacks its royal head,", "Let crown and army perish with the dead!”"]}, {"id": "C7.13.36", "lines": ["From Khallokh to Taraz, grief filled the land;", "Now death was all that army could demand."]}, {"id": "C7.13.37", "lines": ["In jowshans, helms, with gorzes raised on high,", "They all advanced, prepared at last to die."]}, {"id": "C7.13.38", "lines": ["The battlefield rang loud with war and cries;", "The dust rose thick and blotted out the skies."]}, {"id": "C7.13.39", "lines": ["The slain lay everywhere in heaps around,", "And severed heads and limbs choked all the ground."]}, {"id": "C7.13.40", "lines": ["Here severed hands and gorzes lay in gore;", "Blood surged in waves against the fortress door."]}, {"id": "C7.13.41", "lines": ["No man could tell the left hand from the right;", "All blurred in dust and blood throughout the fight."]}, {"id": "C7.13.42", "lines": ["Esfandiyar pressed through the fierce attack;", "Kuhram stood firm and would not be forced back."]}, {"id": "C7.13.43", "lines": ["Those warriors grappled with such force and strain,", "They seemed one body locked in rage and pain."]}, {"id": "C7.13.44", "lines": ["The peerless chief seized Kuhram by the waist,", "And by his belt he raised him, firmly braced."]}, {"id": "C7.13.45", "lines": ["He dashed him to the earth with dreadful sound,", "While Iran’s warriors praised him all around."]}, {"id": "C7.13.46", "lines": ["They bound his hands and bore him off in shame;", "His troops dispersed; no help from them now came."]}, {"id": "C7.13.47", "lines": ["Then gorzes fell like hail; the earth below", "Was strewn with shattered helmets, row on row."]}, {"id": "C7.13.48", "lines": ["The air grew thick with death; beneath the swords", "Heads showered like leaves amid the charging hordes."]}, {"id": "C7.13.49", "lines": ["One shed his blood; another gained a throne;", "Blood dashed in billows over field and stone."]}, {"id": "C7.13.50", "lines": ["Here heads were trampled, there were heads crowned high;", "Fate speaks no word to tell us how or why."]}, {"id": "C7.13.51", "lines": ["Those who had mounts went fleeing from the fray;", "The dragon’s maw held others as its prey."]}, {"id": "C7.13.52", "lines": ["No help availed; their struggle brought them pain;", "Few Turks or men of Chin would now remain."]}, {"id": "C7.13.53", "lines": ["They cast off helms and jowshans, eyes blood-red;", "No name was spoken of the few who fled."]}, {"id": "C7.13.54", "lines": ["Before the prince they ran, their tears like rain", "That springtime showers pour across the plain."]}, {"id": "C7.13.55", "lines": ["The bloodthirsty chieftain abused his power;", "His troops rejoiced in cruelty that hour."]}, {"id": "C7.13.56", "lines": ["He gave no quarter in that bloody strife,", "And had the wounded stripped at once of life."]}, {"id": "C7.13.57", "lines": ["No king in Turan now retained his throne;", "In Chin no chief remained whose name was known."]}, {"id": "C7.13.58", "lines": ["They moved the camp and all the royal tents,", "And left the field to corpses and laments."]}, {"id": "C7.13.59", "lines": ["With good and ill revealed, the prince then went", "Beside the fortress wall and pitched his tent."]}, {"id": "C7.13.60", "lines": ["He raised two lofty gibbets by the wall;", "From them he let the twisted nooses fall."]}, {"id": "C7.13.61", "lines": ["Head-down, Andariman hung at the gate;", "His brother Kuhram shared his gallows fate."]}, {"id": "C7.13.62", "lines": ["He sent his troops wherever chiefs were found,", "And ordered fire to ravage all around."]}, {"id": "C7.13.63", "lines": ["They wrecked the cities of Turan with flame;", "No man was left who bore a noble name."]}, {"id": "C7.13.64", "lines": ["In Chin and Turan none remained to ride;", "No warrior’s name survived on either side."]}, {"id": "C7.13.65", "lines": ["As though a black cloud gathered overhead,", "It rained down fire upon the field of dead."]}, {"id": "C7.13.66", "lines": ["The prince saw how the struggle had been won;", "He called the chiefs and drank, his labor done."]}, {"id": "C7.14.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar called forth a scribe to write,", "And told of cunning ploys and of the fight."]}, {"id": "C7.14.2", "lines": ["The scribe sat on the throne and called for these:", "A pen and silk, both Turkish and Chinese."]}, {"id": "C7.14.3", "lines": ["He dipped his pen; its tip grew black as night,", "Then praised Yazdan who gives the moon its light."]}, {"id": "C7.14.4", "lines": ["Yazdan of Saturn, Venus, and the sun,", "Of ant and elephant, the mighty One."]}, {"id": "C7.14.5", "lines": ["Yazdan of victory and farr divine,", "Of crown imperial and the royal sign,"]}, {"id": "C7.14.6", "lines": ["Yazdan of soul and reason, whom we praise,", "Who grants us good and guides us on our ways."]}, {"id": "C7.14.7", "lines": ["He wrote, “May Goshtasb’s joy be ever bright;", "May earth still shine with Lohrasp’s name and light."]}, {"id": "C7.14.8", "lines": ["I reached Turan along a bitter road;", "Its grief would make youth bend beneath the load."]}, {"id": "C7.14.9", "lines": ["If I told all, young hair would turn to white,", "Yet when the Shah commands, I shall recite."]}, {"id": "C7.14.10", "lines": ["His face will gladden me and bring relief", "From all the burden of this lasting grief."]}, {"id": "C7.14.11", "lines": ["I used my cunning ploys to gain release", "From vengeance, till my heart could rest in peace."]}, {"id": "C7.14.12", "lines": ["Arjasp and Kuhram now are there no more;", "The Hold is grief and wailing to its core."]}, {"id": "C7.14.13", "lines": ["I spared no life; the grass across the plain", "Bore heads for fruit among the countless slain."]}, {"id": "C7.14.14", "lines": ["On human brains the lions and wolves feast;", "The leopard seeks but hearts, that mighty beast."]}, {"id": "C7.14.15", "lines": ["May Goshtasb’s crown light heaven with its glow;", "May earth grow roses for Lohrasp below.”"]}, {"id": "C7.14.16", "lines": ["They set Esfandiyar’s seal upon the scroll,", "And chose fast riders, firm in heart and soul."]}, {"id": "C7.14.17", "lines": ["Swift hiyun bore his riders, foaming white,", "Toward Iran with the letter in their flight."]}, {"id": "C7.14.18", "lines": ["He quenched the evil-wisher’s burning flame,", "And waited till the royal answer came."]}, {"id": "C7.14.19", "lines": ["Before long came the answer, like a key", "To loose the bonds of ill and set him free."]}, {"id": "C7.14.20", "lines": ["The letter opened: “Blessed be the one", "Whose path is just, whose righteous work is done."]}, {"id": "C7.14.21", "lines": ["The wise man knows Yazdan; with grateful praise,", "He thanks Him for the goodness of His ways."]}, {"id": "C7.14.22", "lines": ["I pray to God, the one whose ways are just,", "To guide your steps; in Him I place my trust."]}, {"id": "C7.14.23", "lines": ["No Tree Fereydoon planted bore more fruit", "Than mine in Paradise, where it took root."]}, {"id": "C7.14.24", "lines": ["Its fruit is rubies, red, and gleaming gold;", "Its leaves are beauty, farr in every fold."]}, {"id": "C7.14.25", "lines": ["May this Tree live forever, fresh and new;", "May joy and happy fortune stay with you."]}, {"id": "C7.14.26", "lines": ["First, you declared: ‘By counsel, craft, and strife,", "I sought revenge for my grandfather’s life.’"]}, {"id": "C7.14.27", "lines": ["Second, of blood you shed, you made it known", "How you engaged in battle all alone:"]}, {"id": "C7.14.28", "lines": ["The lives of kings are precious; lasting fame", "Does not arise from war and battle’s flame."]}, {"id": "C7.14.29", "lines": ["Guard well your person, and your wisdom too;", "Through knowledge, wisdom feeds the soul in you."]}, {"id": "C7.14.30", "lines": ["Third, you declared: ‘Of all that mounted force,", "I spared no life throughout the battle’s course.’"]}, {"id": "C7.14.31", "lines": ["Let mercy keep your heart from growing cold;", "Let modesty within your soul take hold."]}, {"id": "C7.14.32", "lines": ["Speak gently; do not live by blood and rage,", "Nor rashly with the chiefs in war engage."]}, {"id": "C7.14.33", "lines": ["The blood you shed for brothers, thirty-eight,", "Has passed all bounds in vengeance for their fate."]}, {"id": "C7.14.34", "lines": ["And then your aged grandfather, whose mind", "Had left all evil and deceit behind:"]}, {"id": "C7.14.35", "lines": ["They shed his blood; you shed theirs in the fight,", "Like warrior lions in their wrath and might."]}, {"id": "C7.14.36", "lines": ["May you be happy, blessed in all you do;", "May wisdom be a teacher guiding you."]}, {"id": "C7.14.37", "lines": ["I long to see your face; in you I find", "That wakeful soul where wisdom is enshrined."]}, {"id": "C7.14.38", "lines": ["When you have read this letter, mount your men,", "And bring your chiefs to join my court again.”"]}, {"id": "C7.14.39", "lines": ["Swift from the royal gate the hiyun sped;", "Throughout Iran the news was quickly spread."]}, {"id": "C7.14.40", "lines": ["The hiyun riders came again to bring", "The prince the written answer of the king."]}, {"id": "C7.14.41", "lines": ["He read the letter; dinars left his hand,", "And he made ready, as the king had planned."]}, {"id": "C7.15.1", "lines": ["He kept Arjasp’s own treasure set aside,", "But gave his kinsmen’s riches far and wide."]}, {"id": "C7.15.2", "lines": ["The warriors prospered through the gifts he gave,", "Bestowed by one so generous and brave."]}, {"id": "C7.15.3", "lines": ["Horses and camels stood on hill and plain,", "All branded for the Turan chief’s domain."]}, {"id": "C7.15.4", "lines": ["Ten thousand hiyun camels now were found", "From heights and valleys, all the country round."]}, {"id": "C7.15.5", "lines": ["He bade a thousand camels carry gold,", "The royal dinars from Arjasp’s stronghold."]}, {"id": "C7.15.6", "lines": ["Three hundred more bore thrones and rich brocade,", "With royal crowns upon their loads arrayed."]}, {"id": "C7.15.7", "lines": ["Five score bore musk and ambergris and gems;", "Five score bore royal crowns and diadems."]}, {"id": "C7.15.8", "lines": ["A thousand carried tapestries of state,", "Brocaded, rich, and costly in their freight."]}, {"id": "C7.15.9", "lines": ["Three hundred carried clothes of Chin, and fine", "Their fur and sable, silk of rich design."]}, {"id": "C7.15.10", "lines": ["He furnished litters, splendidly arrayed,", "And draped them with the richest silk brocade."]}, {"id": "C7.15.11", "lines": ["From Chin he carried two full troops of maids,", "With spring-bright cheeks, tall cypresses in glades."]}, {"id": "C7.15.12", "lines": ["Their waists were slender, and their steps as fleet", "As pheasants moving lightly on their feet."]}, {"id": "C7.15.13", "lines": ["A hundred beauties, women of renown,", "Accompanied his sisters from the town."]}, {"id": "C7.15.14", "lines": ["Five women of Arjasp’s own royal race", "Were taken too from that defeated place:"]}, {"id": "C7.15.15", "lines": ["His mother and two daughters wept in pain;", "His sisters, two, went grieving in their train."]}, {"id": "C7.15.16", "lines": ["At last he fired the Ruyin Dezh’s proud wall;", "Its tongues of flame rose heavenward over all."]}, {"id": "C7.15.17", "lines": ["He razed the ramparts level with the ground,", "And shook all Chin as dust rose all around."]}, {"id": "C7.15.18", "lines": ["He gave his three young sons troops for the road,", "And said, “Keep watch upon the treasure-load."]}, {"id": "C7.15.19", "lines": ["If any turn from justice on your way,", "Cut off their heads with khanjars; do not stay."]}, {"id": "C7.15.20", "lines": ["Take now the desert road; bear spears that gleam", "As brightly as the sun’s resplendent beam."]}, {"id": "C7.15.21", "lines": ["I shall return through all the Stages Seven,", "To hunt the lion under open heaven."]}, {"id": "C7.15.22", "lines": ["Do not delay; I take the road ahead;", "We meet when next the month begins,” he said."]}, {"id": "C7.15.23", "lines": ["Then brave Esfandiyar, with troops renowned,", "Rode toward the Stages, seeking hunting ground."]}, {"id": "C7.15.24", "lines": ["He reached the stage where snow and cold had reigned,", "And saw the baggage he had left remained."]}, {"id": "C7.15.25", "lines": ["The air was sweet, the earth with green was dressed;", "Though summer ruled, spring lingered in its breast."]}, {"id": "C7.15.26", "lines": ["He gathered up the goods and pondered fate,", "Amazed to find them in their former state."]}, {"id": "C7.15.27", "lines": ["He neared Iran, the home of men of might,", "Of lions and of heroes tried in fight."]}, {"id": "C7.15.28", "lines": ["He spent two weeks with hawks and cheetahs, though", "The journey’s weariness still weighed him low."]}, {"id": "C7.15.29", "lines": ["He watched and waited for his noble sons,", "And anger rose against the tardy ones."]}, {"id": "C7.15.30", "lines": ["But when the armies and his sons appeared,", "His face grew bright; his former anger cleared."]}, {"id": "C7.15.31", "lines": ["He said, “The road I traveled was severe;", "Your long delay has vexed me, waiting here.”"]}, {"id": "C7.15.32", "lines": ["The three sons kissed the ground with filial care,", "And said, “What father can with you compare?”"]}, {"id": "C7.15.33", "lines": ["He took the treasure onward with his band", "To Iran, to the warriors of that land."]}, {"id": "C7.15.34", "lines": ["The people decked their cities to rejoice,", "With harp and wine and music’s lifted voice."]}, {"id": "C7.15.35", "lines": ["They draped the walls with hangings rich and fair,", "And scattered musk and ambergris through the air."]}, {"id": "C7.15.36", "lines": ["The air was filled with music all around;", "Spear-bearing horsemen crowded all the ground."]}, {"id": "C7.15.37", "lines": ["Goshtasb made merry when the news was known,", "And drank to those glad tidings from his throne."]}, {"id": "C7.15.38", "lines": ["He summoned all the chiefs throughout the land,", "And all the great who held the troops’ command."]}, {"id": "C7.15.39", "lines": ["With standards raised, tabiras rolled aloud,", "The chiefs rode out to meet him in a crowd."]}, {"id": "C7.15.40", "lines": ["His father too, with men of learning wise,", "Went out with Mobadan in shining guise."]}, {"id": "C7.15.41", "lines": ["Then Goshtasb came to greet him with delight,", "And all the city spoke of that glad sight."]}, {"id": "C7.15.42", "lines": ["When Esfandiyar beheld his father’s face,", "His heart grew joyful at that welcome grace."]}, {"id": "C7.15.43", "lines": ["He spurred his night-black horse, whose fiery stride", "Could set the blaze of battle spreading wide."]}, {"id": "C7.15.44", "lines": ["He came and clasped his father, holding tight;", "His father marveled at that wondrous sight."]}, {"id": "C7.15.45", "lines": ["He blessed him: “May the earth and time remain", "Forever graced by you and by your reign.”"]}, {"id": "C7.15.46", "lines": ["Then to the Shah’s great palace they returned,", "While all the world with goodwill toward him burned."]}, {"id": "C7.15.47", "lines": ["Goshtasb adorned the throne and palace bright;", "His son’s good fortune filled him with delight."]}, {"id": "C7.15.48", "lines": ["They spread the tables; to the chief he said,", "“Invite the nobles to the feast we spread.”"]}, {"id": "C7.15.49", "lines": ["The drinkers came from every hall to meet", "The Shah and join him at his royal seat."]}, {"id": "C7.15.50", "lines": ["In crystal cups the royal wine shone bright;", "The server, like the sun, was filled with light."]}, {"id": "C7.15.51", "lines": ["The faces of his friends were all aglow;", "His foes’ hearts burned with anguish and with woe."]}, {"id": "C7.15.52", "lines": ["The son drank to his father, free of boast;", "His father answered with an equal toast."]}, {"id": "C7.15.53", "lines": ["He asked about the Stages: “Now relate", "Your deeds before the nobles of our state.”"]}, {"id": "C7.15.54", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “Not now, not here;", "Let us not tell these tales amid our cheer."]}, {"id": "C7.15.55", "lines": ["Tomorrow, sober, we shall all recount", "Those ancient tales, a true and full account."]}, {"id": "C7.15.56", "lines": ["Then you shall hear, wise king of men, and own", "That God has triumphed by His power alone.”"]}, {"id": "C7.15.57", "lines": ["Each guest withdrew when wine had loosed his mind,", "A moon-faced beauty’s hand with his entwined."]}, {"id": "C7.15.58", "lines": ["The tale of all the Seven Stages ends;", "My youthful spirit still its strength extends."]}, {"id": "C7.15.59", "lines": ["The just God gave me power to sing this song,", "Yazdan to whom both sun and moon belong."]}, {"id": "C7.15.60", "lines": ["If this should please the Shah, I shall have bound", "A saddle on the heavens turning round."]}, {"id": "C7.15.61", "lines": ["Upon the Shah’s soul may all blessings fall;", "May sudden grief not touch his heart at all."]}, {"id": "C7.15.62", "lines": ["Now drink good wine; the stream sends through the air", "A scent of musk, sweet fragrance everywhere."]}, {"id": "C7.15.63", "lines": ["How happy he with coin and bread to keep,", "With sweets and wine, who slaughters his own sheep."]}, {"id": "C7.15.64", "lines": ["I have no such supplies; good luck to those", "Who do! Have mercy on the poor man’s woes."]}, {"id": "C7.15.65", "lines": ["The gardens bloom with roses, row on row;", "On hills, the tulips and the hyacinths grow."]}, {"id": "C7.15.66", "lines": ["The sleepless bird sings; roses swell in bloom,", "And shake in wind and rain through night-time gloom."]}, {"id": "C7.15.67", "lines": ["I see the wind and moisture from the sky;", "Why should the pale narcissus droop and sigh?"]}, {"id": "C7.15.68", "lines": ["The nightingale laughs on, and on the white", "Rose opens up its beak in song’s delight."]}, {"id": "C7.15.69", "lines": ["I cannot tell: does rose or cloud love more?", "For from the cloud I hear a lion’s roar."]}, {"id": "C7.15.70", "lines": ["The garment tears; a hidden fire is shown,", "Its flashing flames like lightning outward thrown."]}, {"id": "C7.15.71", "lines": ["Earth bears the sky’s tears, testimony clear", "Before the sun, the ruler of the sphere."]}, {"id": "C7.15.72", "lines": ["At dawn, hear Pahlavi beneath the rose;", "What is the grief its mourning notes disclose?"]}, {"id": "C7.15.73", "lines": ["For dead Esfandiyar it mourns in pain;", "Of him, only its cries of grief remain."]}, {"id": "C7.15.74", "lines": ["Like Rostam’s voice, the cloud roars through the night,", "And tears the lions’ hearts and ears with fright."]}]}, {"id": "C8", "title": "The Tragedy of Rostam and Esfandiyar", "summary": "30 sections · 1,635 couplets", "path": "/poem/c8/", "couplets": [{"id": "C8.1.1", "lines": ["I heard a story from the nightingale,", "Recited from the ancient heroic tale."]}, {"id": "C8.1.2", "lines": ["Esfandiyar came from the king that night,", "Drunk and dejected, far from all delight."]}, {"id": "C8.1.3", "lines": ["His mother Katayun, of Caesar’s race,", "Had held him closely in her warm embrace."]}, {"id": "C8.1.4", "lines": ["In darkness, waking from his wine-dark rest,", "He called for wine and spoke what filled his breast."]}, {"id": "C8.1.5", "lines": ["He told his mother, “I have suffered wrong;", "The Shah has kept my rightful crown too long."]}, {"id": "C8.1.6", "lines": ["He said, ‘When you avenge Lohrasp the king", "On King Arjasp, and home in triumph bring"]}, {"id": "C8.1.7", "lines": ["Your sisters, freed from bondage and from shame,", "And raise throughout the world my royal name,"]}, {"id": "C8.1.8", "lines": ["And purge the earth of wickedness and hate,", "And labor to renew its ordered state,"]}, {"id": "C8.1.9", "lines": ["Then realm and army shall become your own,", "With treasure, crown, and high imperial throne.’"]}, {"id": "C8.1.10", "lines": ["When dawn returns to wake the Shah from sleep,", "I shall ask for the pledge he swore to keep."]}, {"id": "C8.1.11", "lines": ["I shall repeat his words and make him hear;", "He shall not hide the truth when I draw near."]}, {"id": "C8.1.12", "lines": ["But if he breaks his pledge and turns me down,", "By God who props the sky, I take the crown."]}, {"id": "C8.1.13", "lines": ["I shall be crowned and let Iran command", "The realm; its people shall possess the land."]}, {"id": "C8.1.14", "lines": ["As Iran’s lady, you shall rule in might;", "With strength and courage, I, like lions, fight.”"]}, {"id": "C8.1.15", "lines": ["His mother sorrowed when she heard him speak;", "Silk turned to thorns against her breast and cheek."]}, {"id": "C8.1.16", "lines": ["She knew the famous Shah would never give", "The throne and crown by which great monarchs live."]}, {"id": "C8.1.17", "lines": ["She said, “My son, so worn by grief and pain,", "What more could any royal heart obtain?"]}, {"id": "C8.1.18", "lines": ["You have command and counsel, troops and gold;", "Seek nothing more than what you have to hold."]}, {"id": "C8.1.19", "lines": ["Your father has no portion but the crown;", "You hold the troops, the realm, the world’s renown."]}, {"id": "C8.1.20", "lines": ["When he departs, the throne will pass to you,", "With crown and fortune, as is justly due."]}, {"id": "C8.1.21", "lines": ["What better for a lion than to stand", "Before his father, girded for command?”"]}, {"id": "C8.1.22", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “How fine and clear", "The sage’s saying sounds within the ear:"]}, {"id": "C8.1.23", "lines": ["‘Tell women nothing secret; what you say", "Will find you in the streets another day."]}, {"id": "C8.1.24", "lines": ["Nor do the thing that women counsel you;", "No woman gives good counsel, sound and true.’”"]}, {"id": "C8.1.25", "lines": ["His mother frowned, ashamed of what she said;", "She wished she had kept silent there instead."]}, {"id": "C8.1.26", "lines": ["But he did not go stand at Goshtasb’s side;", "With wine and minstrels he remained inside."]}, {"id": "C8.1.27", "lines": ["Two days and nights he drained the cup of wine,", "And with his moon-faced women would recline."]}, {"id": "C8.1.28", "lines": ["The third day brought the tidings to the throne:", "The prince now sought the crown to call his own."]}, {"id": "C8.1.29", "lines": ["Goshtasb learned the prince would not give up his claim,", "And that he sought both the crown and the name."]}, {"id": "C8.1.30", "lines": ["He called Jamasp and those who read the skies,", "Lohrasp’s diviners, men of counsel wise."]}, {"id": "C8.1.31", "lines": ["They brought their star-tables at his request;", "The Shah inquired, his spirit much oppressed:"]}, {"id": "C8.1.32", "lines": ["“Will brave Esfandiyar have length of days?", "Will peace and fortune crown his royal ways?"]}, {"id": "C8.1.33", "lines": ["Will he be crowned, and will his royal reign", "Endure, the crown upon his head remain?”"]}, {"id": "C8.1.34", "lines": ["Jamasp, the sage of Iran, heard and read", "The ancient charts, his heart grown sick with dread."]}, {"id": "C8.1.35", "lines": ["His lashes filled with tears; his troubled brow", "Was drawn by all his knowledge told him now."]}, {"id": "C8.1.36", "lines": ["He said, “My days are ill, my stars are ill;", "My knowledge pours misfortune on me still."]}, {"id": "C8.1.37", "lines": ["Would fate had cast me to the lion’s power", "Before brave Zarir’s last and dreadful hour."]}, {"id": "C8.1.38", "lines": ["Then I would not have seen him lying low", "In dust, his breast all blood from battle’s blow."]}, {"id": "C8.1.39", "lines": ["Would that my father’s hand had struck me dead,", "Before ill fortune gathered round my head."]}, {"id": "C8.1.40", "lines": ["Although Esfandiyar has earned great fame,", "And tears the lion’s heart from out its frame,"]}, {"id": "C8.1.41", "lines": ["Though he has swept the world of hostile might,", "And fears no foe or fury in the fight,"]}, {"id": "C8.1.42", "lines": ["Though he secured the world from evil’s crew,", "And split the dragon’s body clean in two,"]}, {"id": "C8.1.43", "lines": ["Hereafter we shall mourn his bitter fate,", "And drink our fill of sorrow, soon or late.”"]}, {"id": "C8.1.44", "lines": ["The Shah exclaimed, “O sage, the truth declare;", "Do not withhold your knowledge in despair."]}, {"id": "C8.1.45", "lines": ["If he shall fall as noble Zarir fell,", "Then life for me will be a living hell."]}, {"id": "C8.1.46", "lines": ["Speak now; my questioning has filled my breast", "With bitter anguish, leaving me no rest."]}, {"id": "C8.1.47", "lines": ["Whose hand will slay him? Tell me from whose blow", "These bitter tears and all this sorrow flow.”"]}, {"id": "C8.1.48", "lines": ["Jamasp replied, “Will grief not fall on me,", "O king, when I reveal what I foresee?"]}, {"id": "C8.1.49", "lines": ["In Zabulistan comes his final breath;", "The son of Zal shall put him there to death.”"]}, {"id": "C8.1.50", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Then think on this affair:", "If I resign the crown for him to wear,"]}, {"id": "C8.1.51", "lines": ["If throne and treasure pass beneath his rule,", "No fatal road shall lead him to Zabul."]}, {"id": "C8.1.52", "lines": ["No man in Kabulistan shall know his face;", "He will not travel through that distant place."]}, {"id": "C8.1.53", "lines": ["Will he be safe from time’s revolving power?", "Will kindly stars direct his fateful hour?”"]}, {"id": "C8.1.54", "lines": ["Jamasp replied, “Can strength or wisdom defy", "The sharp-clawed Dragon of the wheeling sky?"]}, {"id": "C8.1.55", "lines": ["What must be comes; no wisdom can delay", "The time appointed for our final day."]}, {"id": "C8.1.56", "lines": ["A great man’s hand may bring his final sleep,", "Or else Soroush may come while he sleeps deep.”"]}, {"id": "C8.1.57", "lines": ["The Shah’s heart filled with thoughts that would not cease;", "His soul became a thicket, stripped of peace."]}, {"id": "C8.1.58", "lines": ["His evil thoughts and time’s relentless turning", "Together schooled his heart in evil’s learning."]}, {"id": "C8.2.1", "lines": ["When night had gathered up its reins and gone,", "And dawn’s bright spear across the sky was drawn,"]}, {"id": "C8.2.2", "lines": ["Upon his golden throne the Shah sat straight;", "The prince approached, his grievance to relate."]}, {"id": "C8.2.3", "lines": ["He stood, arms folded, like a humble slave,", "His mind weighed down by thought, his spirit grave."]}, {"id": "C8.2.4", "lines": ["When chiefs and warriors filled the royal hall,", "With priests and captains ranked before them all,"]}, {"id": "C8.2.5", "lines": ["Esfandiyar, that mighty prince and chief,", "Began to speak and pour forth all his grief."]}, {"id": "C8.2.6", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah, live evermore; the earth", "Through you receives God’s farr and royal worth."]}, {"id": "C8.2.7", "lines": ["Through you both love and justice stand confessed,", "And crown and throne with majesty are blessed."]}, {"id": "C8.2.8", "lines": ["I am your servant, bound to do your will,", "And swift to act and serve your purpose still."]}, {"id": "C8.2.9", "lines": ["You know Arjasp came riding forth to fight", "Against the Faith, with Chin’s assembled might."]}, {"id": "C8.2.10", "lines": ["I swore those solemn oaths, and held them dear;", "I heeded God’s commands, both firm and clear:"]}, {"id": "C8.2.11", "lines": ["If any man should cast the Faith aside", "For idols, with its holy truth denied,"]}, {"id": "C8.2.12", "lines": ["My khanjar splits him at the waist in two;", "I fear no man in what I swear to do."]}, {"id": "C8.2.13", "lines": ["When fierce Arjasp advanced to join the fight,", "No lion or leopard turned me back in fright."]}, {"id": "C8.2.14", "lines": ["I made the battlefield a graveyard then;", "No saddle held a rider of his men."]}, {"id": "C8.2.15", "lines": ["Yet at Gurazm’s request, amid your cheer,", "You shamed me while you drank at the banquet here."]}, {"id": "C8.2.16", "lines": ["You bound me fast with chains of iron weight,", "And blacksmiths’ spikes secured my captive state."]}, {"id": "C8.2.17", "lines": ["To Gombadan you sent me in that plight,", "In strangers’ hands, disgraced before their sight."]}, {"id": "C8.2.18", "lines": ["You went to Zabul, leaving Balkh behind,", "And treated war as feasting in your mind."]}, {"id": "C8.2.19", "lines": ["You did not see Arjasp’s blade strike its blow;", "You cast old King Lohrasp in blood and woe."]}, {"id": "C8.2.20", "lines": ["Jamasp arrived and saw me bound in pain,", "My body wounded by the heavy chain."]}, {"id": "C8.2.21", "lines": ["He promised realm and throne and pleaded long;", "I answered him, my wrath and spirit strong:"]}, {"id": "C8.2.22", "lines": ["‘These heavy chains, these fetters that I bear,", "These blacksmiths’ iron spikes, I shall lay bare"]}, {"id": "C8.2.23", "lines": ["Before Yazdan upon the Judgment Day,", "And plead against my slanderer’s evil way.’"]}, {"id": "C8.2.24", "lines": ["He said, ‘The gorz-armed chiefs bleed on the plain;", "Your brother Farshidvard lies there in pain."]}, {"id": "C8.2.25", "lines": ["The field holds bodies pierced by arrows’ flight;", "Your sisters have been captured in the fight."]}, {"id": "C8.2.26", "lines": ["The Shah himself has fled before the foe,", "And grieves because he brought his son this woe."]}, {"id": "C8.2.27", "lines": ["Does not your heart burn hot at all this grief,", "At wounds and sorrows that defy relief?’"]}, {"id": "C8.2.28", "lines": ["He spoke much more of sorrow, grief, and pain;", "I broke apart each fetter, yoke, and chain."]}, {"id": "C8.2.29", "lines": ["I rushed to you and slew foes past all count;", "You praised my deeds; too many to recount."]}, {"id": "C8.2.30", "lines": ["Should I recount the Stages, one by one,", "How could I ever hope to see it done?"]}, {"id": "C8.2.31", "lines": ["I glorified Goshtasb before all men,", "And took Arjasp’s proud head in triumph then."]}, {"id": "C8.2.32", "lines": ["I brought his wife and children to your court,", "With crown and throne and treasure of every sort."]}, {"id": "C8.2.33", "lines": ["You placed those riches in your guarded hall;", "My blood was capital; grief paid for all."]}, {"id": "C8.2.34", "lines": ["Your oaths and pledges strengthened heart and hand,", "And made me readier for each command."]}, {"id": "C8.2.35", "lines": ["You said, ‘Return, and when I see you whole,", "You shall be dearer to me than my soul."]}, {"id": "C8.2.36", "lines": ["The ivory throne and crown shall pass to you;", "Your valor makes such royal honors due.’"]}, {"id": "C8.2.37", "lines": ["Before the nobles I am put to shame:", "They ask, ‘Where are the troops and wealth you claim?’"]}, {"id": "C8.2.38", "lines": ["What pretext now remains? What is my place?", "For whom do I still toil in this disgrace?”"]}, {"id": "C8.3.1", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “From truth we must not stray;", "Your deeds exceed the things you tell today."]}, {"id": "C8.3.2", "lines": ["May God, who made the world, remain your aid;", "Each foe, concealed or open, stands afraid."]}, {"id": "C8.3.3", "lines": ["What man can hear your name and not grow pale?", "I say grow pale? His very life would fail."]}, {"id": "C8.3.4", "lines": ["You have no peer but Rostam, Zal’s great son,", "That witless chief, in valor matched by none."]}, {"id": "C8.3.5", "lines": ["He holds Zabulistan and Kabul’s plain,", "With Ghaznin, Bost, and all their wide domain."]}, {"id": "C8.3.6", "lines": ["His valor rises past the heavens’ height;", "He will not bow before another’s might."]}, {"id": "C8.3.7", "lines": ["He served Kay Kavus in the days gone by,", "And lived when Khosrow held his kingship high."]}, {"id": "C8.3.8", "lines": ["He will not name me king; his words are bold:", "‘Goshtasb’s crown is new, and we are old.’"]}, {"id": "C8.3.9", "lines": ["No Roman, Turk, or noble is your peer", "When you in battle on the field appear."]}, {"id": "C8.3.10", "lines": ["Set out for Sistan with your chosen train;", "Use craft and force and guile across that plain."]}, {"id": "C8.3.11", "lines": ["Draw sword and raise your gorz; let Rostam see", "His hands in bonds and bring him here to me."]}, {"id": "C8.3.12", "lines": ["Bring brave Zavareh, Faramarz beside;", "Let none of them take horse again to ride."]}, {"id": "C8.3.13", "lines": ["Then by the Judge, the source of strength and light,", "Who made the sun and moon and stars burn bright,"]}, {"id": "C8.3.14", "lines": ["When you complete this charge, our strife shall cease;", "From me you shall hear no dispute, but peace."]}, {"id": "C8.3.15", "lines": ["I give you treasure, troops, and royal seat;", "And crown you on the throne, your claim complete.”"]}, {"id": "C8.3.16", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “O noble king,", "You leave old justice for a crooked thing."]}, {"id": "C8.3.17", "lines": ["A sovereign’s speech should measured wisdom bear;", "His words should balance justice, truth, and care."]}, {"id": "C8.3.18", "lines": ["Fight Chin’s great king and scatter all his horde;", "Send dust from warriors beaten by your sword."]}, {"id": "C8.3.19", "lines": ["Why fight that aged man, whom Kavus named", "A lion-catcher, mighty and acclaimed?"]}, {"id": "C8.3.20", "lines": ["From Manuchehr to Kay Qobad, his fame", "Made Iran’s heart rejoice to hear his name."]}, {"id": "C8.3.21", "lines": ["They called him Lord of Rakhsh, world-conquering guide,", "King-maker, lion-queller, Iran’s pride."]}, {"id": "C8.3.22", "lines": ["His greatness is no rumor newly heard;", "Kay Khosrow pledged his bond and gave his word."]}, {"id": "C8.3.23", "lines": ["If royal covenants cannot hold true,", "Why seek a charter, Shah Goshtasb, from you?”"]}, {"id": "C8.3.24", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “My lion-hearted son,", "Renowned and skilled in all that you have done,"]}, {"id": "C8.3.25", "lines": ["Who breaks God’s covenant shall find his own", "A desert wind, across the wasteland blown."]}, {"id": "C8.3.26", "lines": ["You heard how Kavus strayed from what was right,", "At Iblis’ bidding, robbed of judgment’s light."]}, {"id": "C8.3.27", "lines": ["On eagles’ wings he climbed the heavens high,", "Then fell in Sari’s waters from the sky."]}, {"id": "C8.3.28", "lines": ["He brought from Hamavaran his Div-born bride;", "The royal women’s house was hers to guide."]}, {"id": "C8.3.29", "lines": ["Through her, the noble Siavash was slain;", "The royal house was overturned in pain."]}, {"id": "C8.3.30", "lines": ["No man should pass the gate or seek the nod", "Of one who turns from fealty to God."]}, {"id": "C8.3.31", "lines": ["If crown and throne are what you hope to claim,", "Then march with troops to Sistan for that aim."]}, {"id": "C8.3.32", "lines": ["When you arrive, bind Rostam’s hands; obey", "The charge I give, and bring him back this way."]}, {"id": "C8.3.33", "lines": ["Bring Rostam with the kamand round his arm,", "Bound fast, a captive, stripped of power to harm."]}, {"id": "C8.3.34", "lines": ["For Zal, Zavareh, Faramarz, take heed;", "Let none contrive a snare to thwart your deed."]}, {"id": "C8.3.35", "lines": ["Bring them on foot and make them run this way;", "Bring them before me, prince, without delay."]}, {"id": "C8.3.36", "lines": ["Then none will turn from us, however great", "His wealth or pleasure in his prosperous state.”"]}, {"id": "C8.3.37", "lines": ["The chieftain frowned, displeasure in his eyes;", "He said, “Turn back from what you now devise."]}, {"id": "C8.3.38", "lines": ["Not Zal or Rostam is your true concern;", "Against your son your plotting thoughts now turn."]}, {"id": "C8.3.39", "lines": ["You grudge the royal throne I seek to gain;", "You would not have me in this world remain."]}, {"id": "C8.3.40", "lines": ["Keep crown and royal throne, as you desire;", "The world has corners where I may retire."]}, {"id": "C8.3.41", "lines": ["Yet I remain your servant, patient still,", "And bow my head before your royal will.”"]}, {"id": "C8.3.42", "lines": ["Goshtasb replied, “Do not be angered so;", "This greatness shall be yours, as you shall know."]}, {"id": "C8.3.43", "lines": ["Choose many riders versed in battle’s art,", "Men who have long in warfare played their part."]}, {"id": "C8.3.44", "lines": ["Take arms and wealth, take soldiers as you need;", "Let every foe lament your coming deed."]}, {"id": "C8.3.45", "lines": ["Without you, troops and wealth and throne are vain;", "What use a crown, if I alone remain?”"]}, {"id": "C8.3.46", "lines": ["He said, “I need no troops; when death draws near,", "God will not spare me with an army here.”"]}, {"id": "C8.3.47", "lines": ["He left his father, angry at the crown", "Withheld, and how his father kept him down."]}, {"id": "C8.3.48", "lines": ["He reached his hall, his face a mask of grief,", "His sighs gave voice to pain beyond relief."]}, {"id": "C8.4.1", "lines": ["Much moved, with tearful cheeks, Katayun came", "Before her glorious son and spoke his name."]}, {"id": "C8.4.2", "lines": ["She said, “O crown of warriors, famed in fight,", "Whose name among the chiefs burns ever bright,"]}, {"id": "C8.4.3", "lines": ["Bahman has told me you intend to ride", "From this rose-garden toward Zabul’s side,"]}, {"id": "C8.4.4", "lines": ["And bind great Rostam, gorz and sword in hand,", "The son of Zal, whom you would now withstand."]}, {"id": "C8.4.5", "lines": ["Now hear the words your mother brings today;", "Do not rush into evil on your way."]}, {"id": "C8.4.6", "lines": ["That rider, strong as elephants in war,", "Would scorn the Nile when battle’s torrents roar."]}, {"id": "C8.4.7", "lines": ["He tore the White Div’s liver out by force;", "Before his sword the sun would leave its course."]}, {"id": "C8.4.8", "lines": ["He slew the king of Hamavaran outright,", "And none is bold enough to blame his might."]}, {"id": "C8.4.9", "lines": ["Against Afrasiab, for Siavash dead,", "He made the earth a sea of running red."]}, {"id": "C8.4.10", "lines": ["Do not give up your life for royal power;", "No newborn wears a crown in his first hour."]}, {"id": "C8.4.11", "lines": ["A curse upon this crown and royal throne,", "On killing, pillage, tumult they have sown!"]}, {"id": "C8.4.12", "lines": ["Your father now is old, while you are young,", "With strength and valor through your sinews strung."]}, {"id": "C8.4.13", "lines": ["The army turns its gaze upon your face;", "Do not through anger fall into disgrace."]}, {"id": "C8.4.14", "lines": ["The world has places other than that land", "Of Sistan; do not raise a reckless hand."]}, {"id": "C8.4.15", "lines": ["Do not make me mourn in life and after death;", "Hear your mother’s grief in every breath.”"]}, {"id": "C8.4.16", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “My mother dear,", "Attend my words and keep your judgment clear."]}, {"id": "C8.4.17", "lines": ["Great Rostam is the man you know so well;", "His deeds, like sacred Zand, you read and tell."]}, {"id": "C8.4.18", "lines": ["Search all the heroes, wander where you may;", "No greater benefactor comes your way."]}, {"id": "C8.4.19", "lines": ["To bind him is a wrong, a deed of shame;", "Such evil ill becomes the royal name."]}, {"id": "C8.4.20", "lines": ["Yet do not break my heart with what you say;", "To break my heart would take my life away."]}, {"id": "C8.4.21", "lines": ["How can I turn from what the Shah commands,", "And cast away such kingship from my hands?"]}, {"id": "C8.4.22", "lines": ["If Zabul marks the ending of my days,", "Then heaven draws me there through all its ways."]}, {"id": "C8.4.23", "lines": ["If Rostam comes obedient to my word,", "No harsh rebuke from me shall then be heard.”"]}, {"id": "C8.4.24", "lines": ["His mother’s eyes rained blood; she tore her hair,", "And cried, “O raging elephant, beware!"]}, {"id": "C8.4.25", "lines": ["Your strength has made you reckless with your life;", "Do not seek Rostam in unequal strife."]}, {"id": "C8.4.26", "lines": ["You are no match for him; you cannot stand", "Against him; do not go without a band."]}, {"id": "C8.4.27", "lines": ["Do not go bearing life upon your own", "Shoulder before that elephant alone."]}, {"id": "C8.4.28", "lines": ["Your will to go is Ahriman’s own snare;", "Pause now, and from this road your children spare."]}, {"id": "C8.4.29", "lines": ["Do not lead children on their feet to hell;", "No sage would say that you have reasoned well.”"]}, {"id": "C8.4.30", "lines": ["The prince replied, “My sons must come with me;", "To leave them here is no choice I can see."]}, {"id": "C8.4.31", "lines": ["When idleness becomes a young man’s way,", "His spirit darkens, and his thoughts decay."]}, {"id": "C8.4.32", "lines": ["I need them in the fight; no mighty force,", "Just kin and some companions on this course.”"]}, {"id": "C8.5.1", "lines": ["At cockcrow the tabiras gave their roar;", "The elephantine chief rode out to war."]}, {"id": "C8.5.2", "lines": ["His army followed swiftly in his train;", "They moved like wind across the waking plain."]}, {"id": "C8.5.3", "lines": ["He marched until two roads appeared ahead;", "The elephants and troops no farther sped."]}, {"id": "C8.5.4", "lines": ["One road led on to Gombadan, and one", "Bent off toward Kabul, where its course would run."]}, {"id": "C8.5.5", "lines": ["The foremost camel sank upon the ground,", "As though it and the earth were joined and bound."]}, {"id": "C8.5.6", "lines": ["The driver struck its head; his staff blows rained,", "The caravan stood still, its march detained."]}, {"id": "C8.5.7", "lines": ["The prince received the omen with alarm,", "And feared the sign foretold approaching harm."]}, {"id": "C8.5.8", "lines": ["He bade them kill it, hoping ill would stay", "With it, and farr would never turn away."]}, {"id": "C8.5.9", "lines": ["The warriors struck its head off where it lay,", "And then the star turned back that very day."]}, {"id": "C8.5.10", "lines": ["Though troubled by the omen he had known,", "He scorned the baleful star its sign had shown."]}, {"id": "C8.5.11", "lines": ["He said, “When one has conquered under grace,", "And lit the earth with fortune’s shining face,"]}, {"id": "C8.5.12", "lines": ["He ought to smile, for every good and ill", "Comes down from God and moves beneath His will.”"]}, {"id": "C8.5.13", "lines": ["Then toward the Hirmund he began to ride,", "Yet fear of hidden mishap walked beside."]}, {"id": "C8.5.14", "lines": ["As custom bade, they raised the tents in rows;", "Each chief the ground for his own station chose."]}, {"id": "C8.5.15", "lines": ["They pitched the canopy and placed the throne;", "The favored sat, whose fortune brightly shone."]}, {"id": "C8.5.16", "lines": ["He summoned wine and minstrels for his cheer,", "With Bishutan, his brother, seated near."]}, {"id": "C8.5.17", "lines": ["He cheered his heart with music and delight,", "And freed the nobles’ hearts from sorrow’s blight."]}, {"id": "C8.5.18", "lines": ["When aged wine had made their faces bloom,", "He spoke to friends and voiced his inward gloom."]}, {"id": "C8.5.19", "lines": ["“I turned from what my father bade me do,", "And strayed from his appointed pathway too."]}, {"id": "C8.5.20", "lines": ["He said, ‘Make Rostam’s bondage your concern;", "And from his degradation do not turn.’"]}, {"id": "C8.5.21", "lines": ["I did not carry out my father’s will;", "For Rostam’s service guards Iran still."]}, {"id": "C8.5.22", "lines": ["He bore our chiefs’ great burdens in the fray;", "His heavy gorz set right a world astray."]}, {"id": "C8.5.23", "lines": ["From Shah to slave, Iran survives today", "Through him; no man can cast that truth away."]}, {"id": "C8.5.24", "lines": ["I need a scribe to ride, alert, aware,", "Whom Rostam’s craft and cunning cannot snare."]}, {"id": "C8.5.25", "lines": ["A rider graced with farr, with learning blessed,", "Who keeps in mind the words to him addressed."]}, {"id": "C8.5.26", "lines": ["If Rostam comes to us, his counsel’s light", "May make our dark deliberations bright."]}, {"id": "C8.5.27", "lines": ["If willingly he lets me bind him here,", "His wisdom bars the harm he has to fear."]}, {"id": "C8.5.28", "lines": ["I wish him only good in what I do,", "If he will keep his heart from malice too.”"]}, {"id": "C8.5.29", "lines": ["Said Bishutan, “This is the way; maintain", "Respect for men, and on this path remain.”"]}, {"id": "C8.6.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar called Bahman to his side,", "And spoke at length of what the charge implied."]}, {"id": "C8.6.2", "lines": ["“Clothe all your limbs in Chin’s brocade and ride", "Your black steed with a prince’s royal pride."]}, {"id": "C8.6.3", "lines": ["Upon your head now set a kingly crown,", "With jewels fit to win the world’s renown."]}, {"id": "C8.6.4", "lines": ["Let all who see you mark your high command,", "And choose you from the chiefs throughout the land."]}, {"id": "C8.6.5", "lines": ["And know your birth is of the royal line,", "Remembering your Creator’s power divine."]}, {"id": "C8.6.6", "lines": ["Take five fine steeds with golden trappings dressed,", "And ten wise priests selected from the best."]}, {"id": "C8.6.7", "lines": ["With those distinguished priests of name and grace,", "Ride straight along the road to Rostam’s place."]}, {"id": "C8.6.8", "lines": ["Perform the errand with a willing mind;", "Greet him from us, speak gently, and be kind."]}, {"id": "C8.6.9", "lines": ["First greet him with the honor that is due,", "Then give him words from me, conveyed by you:"]}, {"id": "C8.6.10", "lines": ["‘Let him who rises, ruling in his might,", "Secure from evil in his lofty height,"]}, {"id": "C8.6.11", "lines": ["Give thanks to God through all his length of days,", "Who knows all goodness and deserves his praise."]}, {"id": "C8.6.12", "lines": ["But he who grows in good and shuns all wrong,", "Who keeps himself from evil all life long,"]}, {"id": "C8.6.13", "lines": ["Shall see his treasure grow and gladly stay", "Within this fleeting world that slips away."]}, {"id": "C8.6.14", "lines": ["By turning from all sordid aims below,", "He wins the garden where the blessed go."]}, {"id": "C8.6.15", "lines": ["With us both good and evil will not last;", "The wise know each, like day, is quickly passed."]}, {"id": "C8.6.16", "lines": ["Dark dust at last will be our final bed,", "While every spirit wings to God instead."]}, {"id": "C8.6.17", "lines": ["Whoever knows the good will strive to bring", "His deeds into accord with every king."]}, {"id": "C8.6.18", "lines": ["You reap the crop you sow from year to year;", "Whatever words you speak, those words you hear."]}, {"id": "C8.6.19", "lines": ["Now let us weigh your deeds with faithful care,", "Without excess in praise or blame unfair."]}, {"id": "C8.6.20", "lines": ["You have lived long and watched kings rise and fall;", "You know what wisdom values over all."]}, {"id": "C8.6.21", "lines": ["It does not suit a man of heart and name", "To stray from wisdom’s road and earn new blame."]}, {"id": "C8.6.22", "lines": ["Great troops and treasure, crown and royal seat,", "Fine horses and great wealth lie at your feet."]}, {"id": "C8.6.23", "lines": ["My forebears placed these riches in your hand,", "For ready service to the king’s command."]}, {"id": "C8.6.24", "lines": ["Yet while Shah Lohrasp held the royal throne,", "You never came before him to be known."]}, {"id": "C8.6.25", "lines": ["And when Goshtasb received the royal seat,", "You never came to bow before his feet."]}, {"id": "C8.6.26", "lines": ["You never wrote, nor sought the royal gate,", "Nor brought the homage proper kings await."]}, {"id": "C8.6.27", "lines": ["You never came in service to his court;", "You name no king to whom you lend support."]}, {"id": "C8.6.28", "lines": ["From Hushang, Jamshid, Fereydoon’s ancient day,", "When Zahhak’s brood was swept from rule away,"]}, {"id": "C8.6.29", "lines": ["Down to Kay Qobad, who assumed the crown", "That Fereydoon had worn in old renown,"]}, {"id": "C8.6.30", "lines": ["No monarch like Goshtasb has yet been known", "In feast, fight, counsel, hunting, crown, or throne."]}, {"id": "C8.6.31", "lines": ["He took the pure good faith into his hand,", "And drove both wrong and fault from the land."]}, {"id": "C8.6.32", "lines": ["His royal way shone like the sun in light;", "False teaching and the Div’s way fled from sight."]}, {"id": "C8.6.33", "lines": ["Then fierce Arjasp brought leopard troops to fight,", "Their chief a sea-beast in his raging might."]}, {"id": "C8.6.34", "lines": ["No man could count the warriors in his train,", "Nor measure half the strength upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C8.6.35", "lines": ["Our famous sovereign met him in the field,", "And made the foe beneath his onset yield."]}, {"id": "C8.6.36", "lines": ["The face of earth lay hidden by the dead,", "Their bodies heaped across the ground blood-red."]}, {"id": "C8.6.37", "lines": ["Until the Resurrection’s final day,", "That tale among the great will not decay."]}, {"id": "C8.6.38", "lines": ["He breaks the backs of lions in the fight;", "From west to east all bow before his might."]}, {"id": "C8.6.39", "lines": ["From far Turan to Sind and Rum’s wide lands,", "The world is wax within his mighty hands."]}, {"id": "C8.6.40", "lines": ["The desert, home of spearmen, sends its train", "Of riders to the court where he holds reign."]}, {"id": "C8.6.41", "lines": ["They pay him toll and tribute, since they know", "They lack the strength to face him as a foe."]}, {"id": "C8.6.42", "lines": ["I speak, O champion, famed for strength and might,", "Because he has not found your conduct right."]}, {"id": "C8.6.43", "lines": ["You have not come before his royal court,", "Nor joined his chiefs in counsel or support."]}, {"id": "C8.6.44", "lines": ["Instead you chose in Zabul to remain,", "Concealed from all, apart from their domain."]}, {"id": "C8.6.45", "lines": ["Yet how can chiefs, unless all feeling ends,", "Forget the good you did for kings and friends?"]}, {"id": "C8.6.46", "lines": ["In every task you raised your noble head,", "And did what former Shahs required and said."]}, {"id": "C8.6.47", "lines": ["If men should count the toils you had to bear,", "Your treasure could not pay for all your care."]}, {"id": "C8.6.48", "lines": ["No king accepts such conduct from a man", "Who serves him, since the rule of kings began."]}, {"id": "C8.6.49", "lines": ["Goshtasb has said, “Since Rostam’s wealth is vast,", "His province rich, his stores from ages past,"]}, {"id": "C8.6.50", "lines": ["He stays in Zabul, sunk in ease and wine;", "He sets no hand to any task of mine."]}, {"id": "C8.6.51", "lines": ["When needed, he is absent from the field;", "At court or feast no loyalty’s revealed.”"]}, {"id": "C8.6.52", "lines": ["The Shah grew angry, swearing in his might", "By shining day and by the dark-blue night:"]}, {"id": "C8.6.53", "lines": ["“No chosen warrior of this camp shall see", "Him in my court unless in bonds to me.”"]}, {"id": "C8.6.54", "lines": ["For this I left Iran without delay;", "The Shah gave me no breath, no pause, no stay."]}, {"id": "C8.6.55", "lines": ["Beware the Shah; avoid his angry gaze;", "You know how fiercely wrath within it plays."]}, {"id": "C8.6.56", "lines": ["If you will come, obeying my command,", "And mourn the past neglect in which you stand,"]}, {"id": "C8.6.57", "lines": ["Then by the sun and Zarir’s soul, I vow,", "By father’s life, that lion none can cow,"]}, {"id": "C8.6.58", "lines": ["I swear to make the Shah repent outright,", "And raise this darkened moon to shining light."]}, {"id": "C8.6.59", "lines": ["Let Bishutan bear witness at my side;", "My soul and wisdom serve me as my guide."]}, {"id": "C8.6.60", "lines": ["I sought to bring the Shah to peace with you;", "Yet fault was all I found in what you do."]}, {"id": "C8.6.61", "lines": ["My father is the king; I serve his throne,", "And cannot leave his bidding for my own."]}, {"id": "C8.6.62", "lines": ["Now let your whole house gather and confer,", "And weigh what action all of you prefer."]}, {"id": "C8.6.63", "lines": ["Let Zal, Zavareh, Faramarz appear,", "With wise Rudabeh, seasoned year on year."]}, {"id": "C8.6.64", "lines": ["Hear all my counsel, every word I say;", "And trust these friendly words to show the way."]}, {"id": "C8.6.65", "lines": ["Your house must not be wrecked beneath their feet,", "To give Iran’s brave men their triumph sweet."]}, {"id": "C8.6.66", "lines": ["When I bring you in bonds before the throne,", "Then many faults before him shall be shown."]}, {"id": "C8.6.67", "lines": ["I shall stand pleading there before his eyes,", "And turn him from the wrath and hate that rise."]}, {"id": "C8.6.68", "lines": ["I shall not let a wind upon you blow;", "Such care my noble birth demands I show.’”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.1", "lines": ["When Bahman heard the prince’s royal word,", "He took the road, by duty’s summons stirred."]}, {"id": "C8.7.2", "lines": ["He donned a robe of gold brocade and flame;", "A jeweled crown proclaimed his royal name."]}, {"id": "C8.7.3", "lines": ["Then proudly from the royal camp he rode;", "Behind him high his royal standard flowed."]}, {"id": "C8.7.4", "lines": ["The noble youth crossed Hirmund’s rushing tide,", "Tall as a cypress in his youthful pride."]}, {"id": "C8.7.5", "lines": ["The watchman saw him from the river’s side,", "And raised a cry through Zabul far and wide:"]}, {"id": "C8.7.6", "lines": ["“A warlike horseman now has crossed the stream", "On sable steed whose golden trappings gleam."]}, {"id": "C8.7.7", "lines": ["Behind him riders of a humbler rank", "Passed on at ease beside the riverbank.”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.8", "lines": ["Zal mounted swiftly, heeding the alarm,", "His kamand strapped, his gorz upon his arm."]}, {"id": "C8.7.9", "lines": ["He reached the watchtower, saw Bahman draw near,", "And from his heart there rose a sigh of fear."]}, {"id": "C8.7.10", "lines": ["He said, “This is a Pahlevan of fame,", "In royal robes that well befit his name."]}, {"id": "C8.7.11", "lines": ["Indeed, he comes from Lohrasp’s royal line;", "May his arrival make our country shine.”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.12", "lines": ["He left the tower and rode toward the gate,", "Then paused in thought, still mounted, there to wait."]}, {"id": "C8.7.13", "lines": ["Soon Bahman came, his royal banner high;", "He did not know old Zal as he rode by."]}, {"id": "C8.7.14", "lines": ["He called, his head held high as he drew near,", "“You, born of landed nobles, standing here,"]}, {"id": "C8.7.15", "lines": ["Where is Zal’s son, the guardian of the state,", "The backbone of our age, renowned and great?"]}, {"id": "C8.7.16", "lines": ["For great Esfandiyar has reached this land,", "And pitched beside the Hirmund with his band.”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.17", "lines": ["Zal said, “My eager son, dismount and rest;", "Take wine and be received as honored guest."]}, {"id": "C8.7.18", "lines": ["Rostam returns from hunting on the plain,", "With Faramarz and Zavareh in his train."]}, {"id": "C8.7.19", "lines": ["Come with your horsemen here and ease your mind;", "Take drafts of wine and leave your haste behind.”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.20", "lines": ["Bahman replied, “Esfandiyar’s command", "Was not for wine, or minstrel, cup, or band."]}, {"id": "C8.7.21", "lines": ["Give me a guide to lead me to the chase;", "And let him ride with me to reach that place.”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.22", "lines": ["Zal said, “What is your name, and why such speed?", "What urgent mission drives your eager steed?"]}, {"id": "C8.7.23", "lines": ["I think you spring from Shah Lohrasp’s great line,", "Or from Goshtasb, whose royal honors shine.”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.24", "lines": ["Bahman replied, “I am Bahman by name,", "Son of the brazen-bodied prince of fame.”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.25", "lines": ["Then Zal dismounted, paying homage due", "To Bahman when his royal birth he knew."]}, {"id": "C8.7.26", "lines": ["Young Bahman smiled and stepped down from his steed;", "He heard Zal’s greeting and gave careful heed."]}, {"id": "C8.7.27", "lines": ["They greeted one another; Zal then pressed,", "“Stay, hero; do not leave in haste; take rest.”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.28", "lines": ["Bahman replied, “We must not now delay,", "Or slight Esfandiyar’s command today.”"]}, {"id": "C8.7.29", "lines": ["Zal chose Shirkhun, who knew the hunting road;", "The guide went with the prince; ahead he rode."]}, {"id": "C8.7.30", "lines": ["The seasoned guide led on, then pointed out", "The hunting ground, and turned his horse about."]}, {"id": "C8.8.1", "lines": ["Before the youth, a mountain came in sight;", "He urged his charger upward to the height."]}, {"id": "C8.8.2", "lines": ["He looked below upon the hunting ground,", "And saw great Rostam, for his gorz renowned."]}, {"id": "C8.8.3", "lines": ["Like Mount Bistoon the mighty warrior stood;", "One hand held up a sapling from the wood."]}, {"id": "C8.8.4", "lines": ["A wild ass on the wood was skewered through;", "His gorz and gear lay close beside him too."]}, {"id": "C8.8.5", "lines": ["His other hand held wine within a bowl;", "His son attended him with watchful soul."]}, {"id": "C8.8.6", "lines": ["Rakhsh roamed the meadow while the landscape gleamed", "Where grass grew, trees rose, and clear water streamed."]}, {"id": "C8.8.7", "lines": ["He thought, “Is this great Rostam in my sight,", "Or dawn’s bright sun that fills the world with light?"]}, {"id": "C8.8.8", "lines": ["No famous ancient ever saw or heard", "Of such a man in deed or spoken word."]}, {"id": "C8.8.9", "lines": ["I fear brave Esfandiyar may have to yield,", "And lose his glory on the fatal field."]}, {"id": "C8.8.10", "lines": ["A boulder then shall crush him unaware,", "And plunge old Zal and Rudabeh in despair.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.11", "lines": ["He loosened from the height a flinty mass,", "And sent it roaring down the mountain pass."]}, {"id": "C8.8.12", "lines": ["Zavareh saw it hurtling toward the ground,", "And heard the mountain thunder with its sound."]}, {"id": "C8.8.13", "lines": ["He shouted, “Pahlevan, look to the height!", "A boulder hurtles down with deadly might!”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.14", "lines": ["But Rostam neither moved nor set aside", "The wild ass, while Zavareh loudly cried."]}, {"id": "C8.8.15", "lines": ["He waited till the stone had thundered low,", "While dust rose thick and dimmed the daylight’s glow."]}, {"id": "C8.8.16", "lines": ["Then with one kick he drove the boulder wide,", "While son and brother praised him at his side."]}, {"id": "C8.8.17", "lines": ["Bahman felt sick at heart at what was done,", "And marked his majesty beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "C8.8.18", "lines": ["He thought, “If Esfandiyar should face the fray,", "His glory may be darkened on that day."]}, {"id": "C8.8.19", "lines": ["Far better for my father to refrain", "From war and seek a peace they might maintain."]}, {"id": "C8.8.20", "lines": ["For should great Rostam win this fight, his hand", "Could seize the whole of Iran’s royal land.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.21", "lines": ["He mounted then his wind-swift steed, and tore", "Down from the mountain, troubled to the core."]}, {"id": "C8.8.22", "lines": ["When he drew near the hunting ground, the one", "Unrivaled, Rostam, saw him at a run."]}, {"id": "C8.8.23", "lines": ["He asked a comrade, “What is this youth’s name?", "I think from Shah Goshtasb’s own line he came.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.24", "lines": ["Then Rostam, with Zavareh and the rest,", "Went out to meet Bahman as honored guest."]}, {"id": "C8.8.25", "lines": ["They all went forth in formal ranks to meet", "Bahman, who stepped down from his saddle seat."]}, {"id": "C8.8.26", "lines": ["They traded courtesies; then, for the truth,", "Great Rostam put this question to the youth:"]}, {"id": "C8.8.27", "lines": ["“First tell me freely what your name may be;", "No nameless man gains what he seeks from me.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.28", "lines": ["The youth replied, “Renowned Bahman am I,", "Son of Esfandiyar, whose fame stands high.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.29", "lines": ["The Pahlevan, delighted at their meeting,", "Embraced him, begged pardon for his late greeting."]}, {"id": "C8.8.30", "lines": ["They went together to the place of rest,", "With nobles who their chief with honor blessed."]}, {"id": "C8.8.31", "lines": ["When Bahman sat, he gave the greetings due,", "From prince and Shah and Iran’s nobles too."]}, {"id": "C8.8.32", "lines": ["He said, “Esfandiyar has come like fire,", "Sent by the Shah to act on his desire."]}, {"id": "C8.8.33", "lines": ["Obedient to the Shah’s august command,", "He pitched his camp beside the Hirmund’s strand."]}, {"id": "C8.8.34", "lines": ["If noble Rostam now will hear from me,", "I bear the words of Esfandiyar’s decree.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.35", "lines": ["Rostam replied, “Young prince, you crossed a road;", "We first must ease your journey’s weary load."]}, {"id": "C8.8.36", "lines": ["First let us share the bounty we possess;", "Then all the world is yours to rule and bless.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.37", "lines": ["He spread soft bread and brought the roasted meat,", "A wild ass, hot and ready there to eat."]}, {"id": "C8.8.38", "lines": ["He laid the tablecloth before his guest,", "And spoke of former days as they took rest."]}, {"id": "C8.8.39", "lines": ["He seated his own brother at the spread,", "But called no other nobles to be fed."]}, {"id": "C8.8.40", "lines": ["Before himself he placed another beast,", "His customary portion at a feast."]}, {"id": "C8.8.41", "lines": ["He salted it, then cut and ate his share;", "Bahman looked on, astonished by the fare."]}, {"id": "C8.8.42", "lines": ["Young Bahman ate so little, scarce a bite;", "A hundredfold was Rostam’s appetite."]}, {"id": "C8.8.43", "lines": ["Then Rostam smiled: “The splendor borne by kings", "Is meant to let them taste life’s pleasant things."]}, {"id": "C8.8.44", "lines": ["If this is all the food that you can stand,", "How did you cross the Stages of that land?"]}, {"id": "C8.8.45", "lines": ["How do you wield the spear in battle’s heat,", "O prince, with such a small desire to eat?”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.46", "lines": ["Bahman replied, “Let none of royal birth", "Be gluttonous or loose of tongue on earth."]}, {"id": "C8.8.47", "lines": ["Less food, more toil and battle mark his stand;", "He holds his life upon an open hand.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.48", "lines": ["Then Rostam smiled and said, “No man should hide", "His manhood from mankind or veil his pride.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.49", "lines": ["He filled a golden bowl and drank a toast", "To freeborn men whose honor he prized most."]}, {"id": "C8.8.50", "lines": ["He gave another: “Pledge a man you choose;", "Recall whatever name you wish to use.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.51", "lines": ["Young Bahman feared the cup; Zavareh drew", "A draft of wine, and spoke the blessing due:"]}, {"id": "C8.8.52", "lines": ["“O royal child, may wine and drinkers be", "Made glad through you in all their festive glee.”"]}, {"id": "C8.8.53", "lines": ["Then Bahman took the wine-cup in his hand,", "Still wondering at the hero of the land."]}, {"id": "C8.8.54", "lines": ["His appetite, his neck and arms so strong,", "His shoulders held the young man’s wonder long."]}, {"id": "C8.8.55", "lines": ["They mounted; Bahman gave, in full detail,", "His father’s words and greetings on the trail."]}, {"id": "C8.9.1", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, the ancient hero thought;", "Then answered with the care the message brought."]}, {"id": "C8.9.2", "lines": ["“I heard the message and rejoice in you;", "Bear Esfandiyar this answer, firm and true:"]}, {"id": "C8.9.3", "lines": ["‘O lion-hearted chief, a mind made wise", "Will weigh the grounds on which its actions rise."]}, {"id": "C8.9.4", "lines": ["When valor, fortune, treasure, high estate", "Have joined to make your name renowned and great,"]}, {"id": "C8.9.5", "lines": ["When noble men regard you with delight,", "As now the world beholds your rising light,"]}, {"id": "C8.9.6", "lines": ["You should not give your heart to evil ways,", "With all the honors of your present days."]}, {"id": "C8.9.7", "lines": ["Let us serve God, let justice be our stay;", "Do not clasp mischief’s hand or choose its way;"]}, {"id": "C8.9.8", "lines": ["Words spoken without cause can bear no fruit,", "Like scentless trees that stand with barren root."]}, {"id": "C8.9.9", "lines": ["If greed should take your soul within its hold,", "Your toil will lengthen, profitless and cold."]}, {"id": "C8.9.10", "lines": ["A prince should speak with measured thought and skill;", "His lips should keep no place for words of ill."]}, {"id": "C8.9.11", "lines": ["Your servant once rejoiced when men would say", "No mother bore your equal in our day."]}, {"id": "C8.9.12", "lines": ["In valor, learning, wisdom, you excel", "Your forebears, as the men who praise you tell."]}, {"id": "C8.9.13", "lines": ["In Hind and Chin your fame is widely known;", "In Rum and sorcerers’ lands your name has grown."]}, {"id": "C8.9.14", "lines": ["I thank you for your counsel; I give praise", "Through three night watches, as throughout the days."]}, {"id": "C8.9.15", "lines": ["I prayed to God that I might see your face,", "And witness all your greatness and your grace."]}, {"id": "C8.9.16", "lines": ["Your manhood, love, and splendor I desired,", "The wish by which my heart was long inspired:"]}, {"id": "C8.9.17", "lines": ["That we might sit in joy and lift the wine", "In honor of the Shah, your king and mine."]}, {"id": "C8.9.18", "lines": ["Now I have reached the wish I sought before;", "I come in haste, your favor to implore."]}, {"id": "C8.9.19", "lines": ["Without my troops I come to hear from you", "The Shah’s command and all he bids me do."]}, {"id": "C8.9.20", "lines": ["I bring the ancient royal grants I hold,", "From Khosrow back to Kay Qobad of old."]}, {"id": "C8.9.21", "lines": ["Now, matchless hero, look upon my case,", "My pain, my acts, my service, and my place."]}, {"id": "C8.9.22", "lines": ["Consider all the deeds that I have done,", "My hardship, toil, and battles I have won."]}, {"id": "C8.9.23", "lines": ["From ancient days until this present hour,", "I served the Shahs and upheld royal power."]}, {"id": "C8.9.24", "lines": ["If chains are all the wages that I earn,", "And harm from Iran’s Shah is my return,"]}, {"id": "C8.9.25", "lines": ["Far better never to have drawn a breath,", "Or, having lived, to find an early death."]}, {"id": "C8.9.26", "lines": ["I come to speak my secrets, every word;", "Across the world my voice shall then be heard."]}, {"id": "C8.9.27", "lines": ["In leopard skin, on foot, I come to stand,", "A halter on my arm, bound by my hand,"]}, {"id": "C8.9.28", "lines": ["As once I broke the mighty elephant’s neck,", "And cast it in the Nile, a broken wreck."]}, {"id": "C8.9.29", "lines": ["Then if some guilt in me is brought to light,", "Cut off my head, as judgment deems it right."]}, {"id": "C8.9.30", "lines": ["Keep words that wound away from me; impart", "Their bitterness to grieve the Div’s own heart."]}, {"id": "C8.9.31", "lines": ["Do not speak words that none has spoken yet,", "Nor think the wind a thing your cage can net."]}, {"id": "C8.9.32", "lines": ["Great men can find a way through fire; but he", "Who cannot swim can never cross the sea."]}, {"id": "C8.9.33", "lines": ["You cannot hide the moon’s resplendent light,", "Nor set the fox beside the lion’s might."]}, {"id": "C8.9.34", "lines": ["Do not spread strife across the road I tread;", "In war my skill has filled the world with dread."]}, {"id": "C8.9.35", "lines": ["No man has seen me fettered in the field,", "No raging elephant has made me yield."]}, {"id": "C8.9.36", "lines": ["Act as a prince should act and take your stand;", "Do not keep Greed, the Div, at your right hand."]}, {"id": "C8.9.37", "lines": ["Put wrath and vengeance from your heart; be wise,", "And do not see the world through youthful eyes."]}, {"id": "C8.9.38", "lines": ["Cross now the stream in joy; may God bestow", "His blessing as you to my household go."]}, {"id": "C8.9.39", "lines": ["Come feast with me; your servant waits for you,", "As once I served Kay Qobad, firm and true."]}, {"id": "C8.9.40", "lines": ["My heart and mind rejoice in you today;", "Do not remain, my prince, so far away."]}, {"id": "C8.9.41", "lines": ["If you will come to me with all your train,", "For two months let your troops with me remain."]}, {"id": "C8.9.42", "lines": ["Then men and horses shall have rest from toil,", "While foes grow blind with envy and recoil."]}, {"id": "C8.9.43", "lines": ["The game afield, the birds upon the stream,", "Will wait, though long your stay with me may seem."]}, {"id": "C8.9.44", "lines": ["I shall behold your strength, your sword in play,", "And see a lion or leopard fall as prey."]}, {"id": "C8.9.45", "lines": ["When you decide to leave with all your men", "And journey home to Iran’s Shah again,"]}, {"id": "C8.9.46", "lines": ["I shall unlock the ancient treasure store,", "Won by my sword in years that came before."]}, {"id": "C8.9.47", "lines": ["All that I gathered by my arm’s own might", "I lay before you, open to your sight."]}, {"id": "C8.9.48", "lines": ["Take what you wish and give the rest away;", "Do not bring grief upon this joyous day."]}, {"id": "C8.9.49", "lines": ["When you would see the Shah, I take the road", "Beside you, rein to rein, to his abode."]}, {"id": "C8.9.50", "lines": ["I shall with pleading soothe his anger’s heat,", "And kiss his head, his eyes, and both his feet,"]}, {"id": "C8.9.51", "lines": ["Then ask the wakeful Shah what cause he found", "To order that my feet should now be bound.’"]}, {"id": "C8.9.52", "lines": ["Remember all my words and make them clear", "To noble Esfandiyar when you draw near.”"]}, {"id": "C8.10.1", "lines": ["When Bahman heard what Rostam had replied,", "A holy Mobad journeyed at his side."]}, {"id": "C8.10.2", "lines": ["But peerless Rostam lingered on the way,", "Then called Zavareh, Faramarz, to say:"]}, {"id": "C8.10.3", "lines": ["“Go straight to Zal, who rules in Zabul’s land,", "And let him hear the charge that I command:"]}, {"id": "C8.10.4", "lines": ["Esfandiyar has now arrived; his aim", "Is all the world, which he has come to claim."]}, {"id": "C8.10.5", "lines": ["Set in the halls a throne of shining gold,", "With royal cloth upon its seat unrolled."]}, {"id": "C8.10.6", "lines": ["Make preparations fit for royal state,", "As once for Kavus; now more rich and great."]}, {"id": "C8.10.7", "lines": ["Make every chamber more resplendent still,", "And load the tables with a generous will."]}, {"id": "C8.10.8", "lines": ["Let nothing fail in all the feast we bear;", "The Shah’s own son approaches; take due care."]}, {"id": "C8.10.9", "lines": ["He comes with vengeance, seeking out a fight,", "A famous prince, renowned for martial might."]}, {"id": "C8.10.10", "lines": ["He would not fear a plain where lions roam;", "I go to bid him welcome to my home."]}, {"id": "C8.10.11", "lines": ["If he accepts my welcome, hope remains;", "For every man hopes good is what he gains."]}, {"id": "C8.10.12", "lines": ["A crown of gold and ruby I shall bring,", "If I find kindness in this noble king."]}, {"id": "C8.10.13", "lines": ["My treasure and my gems I shall provide,", "With bargostvan and gorz and sword beside."]}, {"id": "C8.10.14", "lines": ["But if he sends me back with hope denied,", "No happy day awaits me at his side,"]}, {"id": "C8.10.15", "lines": ["You know my twisted kamand’s coils can hold", "An elephant’s great head, however bold.”"]}, {"id": "C8.10.16", "lines": ["Zavareh answered him, “Have no such thought;", "No man without a grudge has battle sought."]}, {"id": "C8.10.17", "lines": ["In counsel and in courage, none I know", "Can match this prince, wherever I may go."]}, {"id": "C8.10.18", "lines": ["No evil deed comes from a mind made wise;", "No wrong from us has come before his eyes.”"]}, {"id": "C8.10.19", "lines": ["Zavareh went to Zal; but Rostam sped", "Toward the Hirmund, full of fear and dread."]}, {"id": "C8.10.20", "lines": ["He reined in by the stream to wait and hear", "What greeting Bahman brought when he drew near."]}, {"id": "C8.10.21", "lines": ["When Bahman reached the royal dwelling place,", "He stood before his father face to face."]}, {"id": "C8.10.22", "lines": ["Then glorious Esfandiyar asked his son,", "“What answer have you from the peerless one?”"]}, {"id": "C8.10.23", "lines": ["Then Bahman sat and told what he had heard;", "He gave his father Rostam’s every word."]}, {"id": "C8.10.24", "lines": ["He gave first Rostam’s greeting and reply,", "Then told what he had marked with careful eye."]}, {"id": "C8.10.25", "lines": ["He told his father what his eyes had seen,", "Describing Rostam’s strength and mighty mien."]}, {"id": "C8.10.26", "lines": ["“I never saw among the great or small", "A man like Rostam, mightiest of all."]}, {"id": "C8.10.27", "lines": ["He has a lion’s heart and elephant’s size;", "He pulls, and from the Nile its great beasts rise."]}, {"id": "C8.10.28", "lines": ["He came, no jowshan, gorz, nor any trace", "Of helm or kamand, to the Hirmund’s place."]}, {"id": "C8.10.29", "lines": ["He longs to see you; yet I cannot say", "What purpose guides him on his chosen way.”"]}, {"id": "C8.10.30", "lines": ["Then Esfandiyar grew angry at his son,", "And shamed him in full court for what was done."]}, {"id": "C8.10.31", "lines": ["He said, “A noble man should not confide", "His secrets to a woman at his side."]}, {"id": "C8.10.32", "lines": ["Send children on a weighty task and see", "How little strength and courage there will be."]}, {"id": "C8.10.33", "lines": ["What mighty warriors have you seen? Reply!", "You have not even heard a fox’s cry."]}, {"id": "C8.10.34", "lines": ["You make him a war elephant and shake", "The hearts of all these chiefs until they break.”"]}, {"id": "C8.10.35", "lines": ["Then privately to Bishutan he said,", "“This lion still prepares for war ahead."]}, {"id": "C8.10.36", "lines": ["He bears himself as though still in his prime;", "He carries lightly all the weight of time.”"]}, {"id": "C8.11.1", "lines": ["The prince commanded, “Saddle up the black;", "Place now the golden saddle on its back.”"]}, {"id": "C8.11.2", "lines": ["A hundred horsemen from his chosen band", "Rode with him out beside the Hirmund strand."]}, {"id": "C8.11.3", "lines": ["He hastened to the Hirmund’s riverbank,", "His saddle’s twisted kamand at his flank."]}, {"id": "C8.11.4", "lines": ["Rakhsh neighed aloud upon the nearer side;", "The prince’s charger called across the tide."]}, {"id": "C8.11.5", "lines": ["Then Rostam rode from land into the stream;", "Dismounting, he addressed him with esteem."]}, {"id": "C8.11.6", "lines": ["When greetings passed, he said, “I prayed in grace", "That God would guide you safely to this place,"]}, {"id": "C8.11.7", "lines": ["That you and all your nobles might draw near", "With all your troops and safely meet me here."]}, {"id": "C8.11.8", "lines": ["Come, let us sit and let our words be wise,", "And in our talk let happy counsel rise."]}, {"id": "C8.11.9", "lines": ["Be sure that God Himself looks on and knows,", "And wisdom guides the words that I disclose."]}, {"id": "C8.11.10", "lines": ["I seek no glory through the words I share;", "No lie will pass my lips or cloud the air."]}, {"id": "C8.11.11", "lines": ["If Siavash now appeared before my sight,", "My heart could know no greater joy or light."]}, {"id": "C8.11.12", "lines": ["You seem like Siavash, and none beside,", "That crowned one whose gifts spread far and wide."]}, {"id": "C8.11.13", "lines": ["Blessed is the Shah who has a son like you;", "Your stature and your farr rejoice him too."]}, {"id": "C8.11.14", "lines": ["Blessed is Iran, whose people gladly wait", "Upon your throne and ever-watchful fate."]}, {"id": "C8.11.15", "lines": ["Ill-starred is he who fights you; from his throne", "He falls to dust, his fortune overthrown."]}, {"id": "C8.11.16", "lines": ["May all your foes be filled with dread of you;", "May all ill-wishers’ hearts be torn in two."]}, {"id": "C8.11.17", "lines": ["May all your years be fortunate and bright;", "May Nowruz greet you in the blackest night.”"]}, {"id": "C8.11.18", "lines": ["Then bright Esfandiyar left his royal steed,", "And clasped the hero, great in word and deed."]}, {"id": "C8.11.19", "lines": ["He called down blessings on the man of fame,", "And spoke with joy while praising Rostam’s name:"]}, {"id": "C8.11.20", "lines": ["“Thank God, O chief of chiefs, that I behold", "Your mind so bright, your spirit glad and bold."]}, {"id": "C8.11.21", "lines": ["It is but right that men should hail your worth,", "Whose fame makes heroes dust upon the earth."]}, {"id": "C8.11.22", "lines": ["Blessed is he who has a son like you;", "He sees the fruit upon the branch he grew."]}, {"id": "C8.11.23", "lines": ["Blessed is he who has in you a stay;", "No evil fortune strips his peace away."]}, {"id": "C8.11.24", "lines": ["In you I see Zarir, that lion’s might,", "The chief who felled great elephants in fight.”"]}, {"id": "C8.11.25", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “O wise and watchful chief,", "Whose spirit shines, hear now my wish in brief:"]}, {"id": "C8.11.26", "lines": ["I have one wish, and if that wish were won,", "My heart would rest content beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "C8.11.27", "lines": ["Come visit me in state, and make my soul", "Bright with your sight, restored and glad and whole."]}, {"id": "C8.11.28", "lines": ["Though little there may suit your royal state,", "We shall provide the best within our gate.”"]}, {"id": "C8.11.29", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “O hero, you", "Survive the mighty men the whole world knew."]}, {"id": "C8.11.30", "lines": ["All Iran takes delight in your great name,", "And in a man of such enduring fame."]}, {"id": "C8.11.31", "lines": ["Your counsel must not lightly be dismissed,", "Nor should your land and dwelling place be missed."]}, {"id": "C8.11.32", "lines": ["Yet I may not, in private or in sight,", "Turn from the Shah’s command to left or right."]}, {"id": "C8.11.33", "lines": ["He did not bid me linger in this land,", "Or fight the nobles here at his command."]}, {"id": "C8.11.34", "lines": ["Act so that fortune’s fruit remains your own;", "Walk in the path the king of kings has shown."]}, {"id": "C8.11.35", "lines": ["Set bonds upon your feet without delay;", "A monarch’s bonds bring no disgrace your way."]}, {"id": "C8.11.36", "lines": ["When I bring you in bonds before his eyes,", "The blame for this on him alone then lies."]}, {"id": "C8.11.37", "lines": ["Though seeing you in bondage wounds my heart,", "I shall serve you and never stand apart."]}, {"id": "C8.11.38", "lines": ["You shall not stay in bonds till day is through;", "If any hurt or harm should come to you,"]}, {"id": "C8.11.39", "lines": ["Regard it all as good; the Shah will send", "No harm to you, on that you may depend."]}, {"id": "C8.11.40", "lines": ["When I am crowned and rule throughout the land,", "I shall entrust the world into your hand."]}, {"id": "C8.11.41", "lines": ["No sin before the just God shall I bear,", "Nor shame before the Shah whose crown I wear."]}, {"id": "C8.11.42", "lines": ["When you return to Zabul in the days", "When garden roses bloom beneath your gaze,"]}, {"id": "C8.11.43", "lines": ["You shall receive much treasure from my hand,", "Enough to grace and beautify your land.”"]}, {"id": "C8.11.44", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “O noble prince, I sought", "From God the joy your presence would have brought:"]}, {"id": "C8.11.45", "lines": ["To find my heart made happy at your sight,", "And in your words to find my soul’s delight."]}, {"id": "C8.11.46", "lines": ["We both are wise, one old and one still young,", "Two watchful Pahlevans from honor sprung."]}, {"id": "C8.11.47", "lines": ["I fear the evil eye may break the deep", "Contentment, waking us from pleasant sleep."]}, {"id": "C8.11.48", "lines": ["The Div finds room between us in this hour,", "And bends your heart to crown and throne and power."]}, {"id": "C8.11.49", "lines": ["Such an affair would bring me lasting shame,", "A wound forever fastened to my name:"]}, {"id": "C8.11.50", "lines": ["That such a chieftain, high-born, brave, and great,", "Should not come as my guest within my gate."]}, {"id": "C8.11.51", "lines": ["Come gladly to my house and be my guest", "Within this land; then let our quarrel rest."]}, {"id": "C8.11.52", "lines": ["Cast out your enmity and strive to quell", "The Div by working on him with a spell."]}, {"id": "C8.11.53", "lines": ["Your words bring joy; I yield to your command,", "Except these bonds upon my foot and hand."]}, {"id": "C8.11.54", "lines": ["Bonds bring defeat and shame; none shall see me", "Alive in chains. That is my firm decree.”"]}, {"id": "C8.11.55", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “O heroes’ pride,", "Your words are truth; let falsehood stand aside."]}, {"id": "C8.11.56", "lines": ["No man gains light through lies; Bishutan knows", "The Shah’s commands that sent me where he chose."]}, {"id": "C8.11.57", "lines": ["If I should come as guest within your hall,", "While you refuse the Shah’s command and call,"]}, {"id": "C8.11.58", "lines": ["My day would darken; should we come to fight,", "I would assume the leopard’s wrath and might."]}, {"id": "C8.11.59", "lines": ["For should I fight with you, our bond would break,", "The right of bread and salt I would forsake."]}, {"id": "C8.11.60", "lines": ["My claim to noble birth would be in doubt,", "If I should cast that binding duty out."]}, {"id": "C8.11.61", "lines": ["But if I disobey the Shah’s desire,", "My dwelling in the next world will be fire."]}, {"id": "C8.11.62", "lines": ["Yet since you wish it, let one day be spent", "With wine in hand, and hearts on peace intent."]}, {"id": "C8.11.63", "lines": ["Who knows what fate tomorrow will allot?", "We need not weave a tale of what is not.”"]}, {"id": "C8.11.64", "lines": ["Said Rostam, “I agree; I shall go back", "And shed the clothes I wore upon the track."]}, {"id": "C8.11.65", "lines": ["For seven days I hunted, and instead", "Of lamb, on meat of wild ass I have fed."]}, {"id": "C8.11.66", "lines": ["Call me at mealtime when you take your seat", "Among your kin, and I shall come to eat.”"]}, {"id": "C8.11.67", "lines": ["He mounted Rakhsh, his thoughts a troubled weight,", "And hurried homeward to the palace gate."]}, {"id": "C8.11.68", "lines": ["He saw the face of Zal, great Sahm’s own son,", "And said, “Famed chief, the meeting now is done."]}, {"id": "C8.11.69", "lines": ["I went today to see Esfandiyar,", "A prince like cypress, graced with royal farr."]}, {"id": "C8.11.70", "lines": ["He is a man of wisdom, grace, and light,", "With royal glory shining in my sight."]}, {"id": "C8.11.71", "lines": ["Fereydoon seemed to place within his care", "His greatness and his wisdom, both to bear."]}, {"id": "C8.11.72", "lines": ["His presence stands above what rumor tells;", "Imperial farr within his being dwells.”"]}, {"id": "C8.12.1", "lines": ["When Rostam left the Hirmund’s riverbank,", "Esfandiyar in troubled silence sank."]}, {"id": "C8.12.2", "lines": ["Then Bishutan, his counselor, drew near,", "And came into the prince’s tent to hear."]}, {"id": "C8.12.3", "lines": ["The hero said, “We held this hard affair", "Too lightly, giving it too little care."]}, {"id": "C8.12.4", "lines": ["I have no business in his hall, and he", "Has no occasion here to visit me."]}, {"id": "C8.12.5", "lines": ["If he comes not, I shall not call him near;", "If either’s mortal measure fills up here,"]}, {"id": "C8.12.6", "lines": ["The living heart will burn for him who dies,", "And tears of fond remembrance fill his eyes.”"]}, {"id": "C8.12.7", "lines": ["Then Bishutan replied, “What brother stands", "Like famed Esfandiyar in all these lands?"]}, {"id": "C8.12.8", "lines": ["By God, when I saw you two face to face,", "And neither sought a quarrel in that place,"]}, {"id": "C8.12.9", "lines": ["My heart became like springtime in its cheer,", "For Rostam’s sake and yours together here."]}, {"id": "C8.12.10", "lines": ["But looking at your case, I saw the way", "The Div blocks reason’s path and leads astray."]}, {"id": "C8.12.11", "lines": ["You know this matter well and understand", "Your father’s counsel and our God’s command."]}, {"id": "C8.12.12", "lines": ["Take care; do not endanger your own life;", "Hear now your brother and avoid this strife."]}, {"id": "C8.12.13", "lines": ["I heard his words; his greatness came to light,", "With noble kindness joined to all his might."]}, {"id": "C8.12.14", "lines": ["No bonds will chafe the feet of Zal’s great son;", "Your bond will not be lightly sought or won."]}, {"id": "C8.12.15", "lines": ["That horseman of the world will not, in play,", "Put his head in a snare and be its prey."]}, {"id": "C8.12.16", "lines": ["I fear this quarrel may grow fierce and long,", "Between two proud men, each so great and strong."]}, {"id": "C8.12.17", "lines": ["You are a mighty prince, whose wits exceed", "Goshtasb’s, and stronger in each warlike deed."]}, {"id": "C8.12.18", "lines": ["When one seeks feast and one pursues a feud,", "Judge which of these displays the nobler mood.”"]}, {"id": "C8.12.19", "lines": ["“Defy the Shah?” the prince said. “Men would cry", "Against my choice, and God would ask me why."]}, {"id": "C8.12.20", "lines": ["Both worlds for Rostam I will not let go;", "No needle has sewn shut the world’s eye so.”"]}, {"id": "C8.12.21", "lines": ["Then Bishutan said, “All advice I knew", "To help your soul and body, I gave you."]}, {"id": "C8.12.22", "lines": ["I have said all; now choose the nobler way;", "A prince should lift his heart from wrath today.”"]}, {"id": "C8.12.23", "lines": ["He called upon the cooks to bring the fare;", "He sent no man to bid Rostam to share."]}, {"id": "C8.12.24", "lines": ["His meal now done, he called for wine and told", "Of deeds at Ruyin Dezh, both brave and bold."]}, {"id": "C8.12.25", "lines": ["He drank to the Shah amid his martial boast,", "Recalling his own valor with the toast."]}, {"id": "C8.12.26", "lines": ["But Rostam stayed within his palace wall,", "And did not eat, still waiting for the call."]}, {"id": "C8.12.27", "lines": ["A long while passed; no messenger drew near,", "Though Rostam watched the road for one to appear."]}, {"id": "C8.12.28", "lines": ["When feast-time passed and patience ebbed away,", "The hero would no longer bear delay."]}, {"id": "C8.12.29", "lines": ["He smiled and said, “My brother, deck the board;", "Summon the noble men with one accord."]}, {"id": "C8.12.30", "lines": ["If this is Esfandiyar’s chosen way,", "Remember well his custom from today.”"]}, {"id": "C8.12.31", "lines": ["He bade them saddle Rakhsh and make him fine", "With saddle trappings made in Chin’s design."]}, {"id": "C8.12.32", "lines": ["“I go to speak to him, who chose to slight", "Our business, treating all its weight as light.”"]}, {"id": "C8.13.1", "lines": ["Like some great elephant, he climbed astride;", "Rakhsh’s loud neigh rang out two farsangs wide."]}, {"id": "C8.13.2", "lines": ["He hurried toward the river and the men;", "The troops pressed close to gaze on him again."]}, {"id": "C8.13.3", "lines": ["All hearts chose love for him as on he came;", "They cried, “He seems like Sahm, that chief of fame."]}, {"id": "C8.13.4", "lines": ["He sits, an iron mountain, on that steed;", "Rakhsh seems like Ahriman in strength and speed."]}, {"id": "C8.13.5", "lines": ["Should he oppose an elephant, its head", "Would have dark indigo upon it spread."]}, {"id": "C8.13.6", "lines": ["The king must have a mind bereft of light,", "To send such farr and prowess into fight:"]}, {"id": "C8.13.7", "lines": ["The moonlike prince, Esfandiyar the great,", "Against this chief, to meet a deadly fate."]}, {"id": "C8.13.8", "lines": ["Goshtasb grows more greedy for his gold,", "More proud of seal and crown as he grows old.”"]}, {"id": "C8.13.9", "lines": ["Esfandiyar came forth to show respect,", "And gave the welcome Rostam could expect."]}, {"id": "C8.13.10", "lines": ["Said Rostam, “Pahlevan, young prince of state,", "Your ways are new; your fortune has been great."]}, {"id": "C8.13.11", "lines": ["Your guest, it seems, was worth no summons sent;", "Your promise was a wind that came and went."]}, {"id": "C8.13.12", "lines": ["Remember all I say; do not be bold", "In senseless rage toward one who has grown old."]}, {"id": "C8.13.13", "lines": ["You think too highly of yourself today,", "And find these mighty chiefs get in your way."]}, {"id": "C8.13.14", "lines": ["You hold my courage light, my counsel small,", "And think my knowledge hardly counts at all."]}, {"id": "C8.13.15", "lines": ["Know I am Rostam; through me shines the line", "Of Nariman, whose lineage is mine."]}, {"id": "C8.13.16", "lines": ["The black Div gnaws his hand; I make him quail,", "And send the sorcerers into a jail."]}, {"id": "C8.13.17", "lines": ["When chiefs beheld my babr armor’s might,", "My mount, a roaring lion in their sight,"]}, {"id": "C8.13.18", "lines": ["They left the field before a blow was thrown,", "Their bows and arrows left behind, alone."]}, {"id": "C8.13.19", "lines": ["Kamus, that warrior, felt my kamand’s coil;", "The Khan of Chin was dragged down to the soil."]}, {"id": "C8.13.20", "lines": ["I dragged them from their saddles to defeat,", "And bound them captive, both their heads and feet."]}, {"id": "C8.13.21", "lines": ["I guard the Shahs and all Iran; I stand", "Behind the brave in each and every land."]}, {"id": "C8.13.22", "lines": ["Do not mistake my plea, nor hold your head", "Above the heavens for the words I said."]}, {"id": "C8.13.23", "lines": ["Your farr and royal state drew me to you,", "To seek your counsel and your friendship too."]}, {"id": "C8.13.24", "lines": ["I do not wish a prince of such renown", "To fall through me, by Fortune broken down."]}, {"id": "C8.13.25", "lines": ["I call great Sahm a hero; at his stride", "The lions left the woods and fled aside."]}, {"id": "C8.13.26", "lines": ["I am his memory living on the earth,", "O royal prince of valor, fame, and birth."]}, {"id": "C8.13.27", "lines": ["Long have I been the world’s great champion, free", "Of evil deeds that leave their stain on me."]}, {"id": "C8.13.28", "lines": ["I cleansed the world of foes; the toil and strain", "Have lined my face with wrinkles born of pain."]}, {"id": "C8.13.29", "lines": ["I thank my God that in these later days", "I see my peer, a prince of royal praise."]}, {"id": "C8.13.30", "lines": ["You shall avenge the Faith; on every tongue", "Your praise throughout the world shall then be sung.”"]}, {"id": "C8.13.31", "lines": ["Then smiling, prince Esfandiyar replied,", "“O son of Sahm, I see your wounded pride."]}, {"id": "C8.13.32", "lines": ["No summons came; you took it as a slight.", "I sought no glory through it, nor delight."]}, {"id": "C8.13.33", "lines": ["The day was hot, the road was long to ride;", "I would not trouble you; put wrath aside."]}, {"id": "C8.13.34", "lines": ["I said, ‘At dawn I shall set out; I need", "To seek your pardon for my graceless deed."]}, {"id": "C8.13.35", "lines": ["To see old Zal would fill my heart with cheer,", "And you would gladden me when I drew near.’"]}, {"id": "C8.13.36", "lines": ["But since you came yourself and rode this way,", "And left your home to cross the plain today,"]}, {"id": "C8.13.37", "lines": ["Sit down and rest; take up the cup of wine,", "And let no wrath disturb this feast of mine.”"]}, {"id": "C8.13.38", "lines": ["He placed great Rostam on his left-hand side;", "The gathering was graced by him, its pride."]}, {"id": "C8.13.39", "lines": ["The Pahlevan said, “This is no place for me;", "I sit where I decide my place shall be.”"]}, {"id": "C8.13.40", "lines": ["Upon the right, he ordered them to lay", "His seat, arranged precisely in his way."]}, {"id": "C8.13.41", "lines": ["He told the prince in anger, “Open wide", "Your eyes; behold my stature and my pride."]}, {"id": "C8.13.42", "lines": ["Regard my prowess and my noble seed;", "From valiant Sahm I spring in word and deed."]}, {"id": "C8.13.43", "lines": ["A man needs merit and a noble start,", "A generous hand, a just and giving heart."]}, {"id": "C8.13.44", "lines": ["Though you may have no seat to match my state,", "My wisdom, judgment, triumph still are great.”"]}, {"id": "C8.13.45", "lines": ["Then came the order; to the royal seat", "They brought a golden chair, set at its feet."]}, {"id": "C8.13.46", "lines": ["Rostam, still angry, sat upon the gold,", "A fragrant citron in his hand to hold."]}, {"id": "C8.14.1", "lines": ["Then Esfandiyar spoke thus to Rostam’s face:", "“O kindly chief, whom fame and honor grace,"]}, {"id": "C8.14.2", "lines": ["From Mobadan I heard this tale of old;", "From chiefs and wakeful sages it was told:"]}, {"id": "C8.14.3", "lines": ["That Zal was base, and from a Div was born;", "His lineage merits nothing more than scorn."]}, {"id": "C8.14.4", "lines": ["They hid the child from Sahm for many a day,", "And deemed him born to bring the world dismay."]}, {"id": "C8.14.5", "lines": ["His face and hair were white, his body dark;", "Sahm saw him and despaired of that strange mark."]}, {"id": "C8.14.6", "lines": ["He bade them take him to the sea, away,", "Where birds and fish might make the child their prey."]}, {"id": "C8.14.7", "lines": ["The Simorgh came, her wings spread out to fly;", "No noble bearing, no farr met her eye."]}, {"id": "C8.14.8", "lines": ["She carried him aloft to her retreat,", "Where no one found the infant’s presence sweet."]}, {"id": "C8.14.9", "lines": ["Though hunger gnawed, the Simorgh’s scorn was plain;", "She held his body worthless, in disdain."]}, {"id": "C8.14.10", "lines": ["He ate the carrion scraps that she had shed;", "Unclothed, despised, on cast-off flesh he fed."]}, {"id": "C8.14.11", "lines": ["In time the Simorgh came to love the child;", "And so the years passed by him in the wild."]}, {"id": "C8.14.12", "lines": ["She took him to Sistan, his body bare,", "After he lived on carrion for his fare."]}, {"id": "C8.14.13", "lines": ["Childless, Sahm took him; what a foolish mind!", "What ways of Divs, what manners, crude in kind!"]}, {"id": "C8.14.14", "lines": ["The Shahs and mighty men from my own race,", "My forebears and well-wishers gave him place."]}, {"id": "C8.14.15", "lines": ["They gave him rank and goods in full supply;", "Years passed, and he grew cypress-like and high."]}, {"id": "C8.14.16", "lines": ["That cypress branched; its crown stayed whole; it grew,", "And bore its fruit in Rostam; namely you."]}, {"id": "C8.14.17", "lines": ["Through manhood, stature, looks, he rose so great,", "His fortunes seemed to climb to heaven’s gate."]}, {"id": "C8.14.18", "lines": ["Thus, he gained kingship, swollen in his pride,", "And cast the ways of piety aside.”"]}, {"id": "C8.15.1", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered, “Take heed of my word;", "Why speak such things as no one gladly heard?"]}, {"id": "C8.15.2", "lines": ["Your heart breeds crookedness; the Divs supply", "The nourishment that lifts your spirit high."]}, {"id": "C8.15.3", "lines": ["Speak as befits a king whose rule is just;", "A Shah speaks only truth, which men may trust."]}, {"id": "C8.15.4", "lines": ["God knows that Zal, great Sahm’s illustrious son,", "Has wisdom, greatness, and fair honor won."]}, {"id": "C8.15.5", "lines": ["And Sahm was born to noble Nariman,", "That hero, sprung from mighty Kariman."]}, {"id": "C8.15.6", "lines": ["Hushang, the crowned king, stands within our line,", "Whose royal ancestry is also mine."]}, {"id": "C8.15.7", "lines": ["You must have heard of peerless Sahm’s renown;", "No other name in his age wore such a crown."]}, {"id": "C8.15.8", "lines": ["First came the dragon, ravaging Tus’s land,", "From whose fierce grip no man could free his hand."]}, {"id": "C8.15.9", "lines": ["At sea a nahang, leopard on dry ground,", "Its fire scorched rock and earth the country round."]}, {"id": "C8.15.10", "lines": ["It burned the fishes’ heads in waterways,", "And scorched the vultures’ wings amid the blaze."]}, {"id": "C8.15.11", "lines": ["It sucked in elephants; the thought alone", "Could turn a cheerful heart as cold as stone."]}, {"id": "C8.15.12", "lines": ["Another was a Div of malice, vast,", "Its head in heaven, on earth its body cast."]}, {"id": "C8.15.13", "lines": ["The sea of Chin came halfway up its frame;", "The sunlight harmed it with its burning flame."]}, {"id": "C8.15.14", "lines": ["It lifted fish from water far below,", "Its head beyond the heavens’ dome would go."]}, {"id": "C8.15.15", "lines": ["The sun would roast the fish it held on high;", "It made the wheeling heavens weep and cry."]}, {"id": "C8.15.16", "lines": ["These two great monsters both lay lifeless then,", "By Sahm’s sword slain, that mighty chief of men."]}, {"id": "C8.15.17", "lines": ["My mother, Mehrab’s daughter, shares his line;", "He made the realm of Sind in splendor shine."]}, {"id": "C8.15.18", "lines": ["Five fathers back, her lineage reached the crown", "Of Zahhak, high among kings of renown."]}, {"id": "C8.15.19", "lines": ["Who has a nobler lineage than this?", "No wise man trades the truth for falsehood’s kiss."]}, {"id": "C8.15.20", "lines": ["Throughout the world, wherever heroes be,", "They ought to seek their skill and strength from me."]}, {"id": "C8.15.21", "lines": ["I hold the grant that Kavus gave me first;", "Against me no excuse may be rehearsed."]}, {"id": "C8.15.22", "lines": ["I hold one too from righteous Kay Khosrow,", "Whose like no Kayanian king could show."]}, {"id": "C8.15.23", "lines": ["My wanderings have covered all the earth;", "I slew the unjust kings and proved my worth."]}, {"id": "C8.15.24", "lines": ["When I crossed Jihun, Afrasiab took flight;", "To Chin from Turan fled that man of might."]}, {"id": "C8.15.25", "lines": ["For Kavus, at war in Hamavaran,", "I went alone into Mazandaran."]}, {"id": "C8.15.26", "lines": ["Arzhang and White Div fell beneath my hand;", "Nor could Sanja, Pulad Ghandi, or Bid stand."]}, {"id": "C8.15.27", "lines": ["And for our monarch’s sake, I slew my son,", "My wise, brave boy, the best beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "C8.15.28", "lines": ["No warrior matched Sohrab in strength and name,", "In courage, tested skill, and battle fame."]}, {"id": "C8.15.29", "lines": ["Six hundred years and more have passed away", "Since I was born of Zal, until this day."]}, {"id": "C8.15.30", "lines": ["The world’s Pahlevan, so men called me, true", "In public and in private, through and through."]}, {"id": "C8.15.31", "lines": ["As noble Fereydoon once wore the crown,", "And hurled Zahhak with head and diadem down,"]}, {"id": "C8.15.32", "lines": ["And Sahm, our forebear, with discerning mind", "Left knowledge and alchemy far behind,"]}, {"id": "C8.15.33", "lines": ["So, third, when I put on the warrior’s belt,", "The crowned king’s ease throughout the world was felt."]}, {"id": "C8.15.34", "lines": ["No days had known such joy; no outlaw’s trace", "Was found about the fortress in that place."]}, {"id": "C8.15.35", "lines": ["For I was then triumphant through the land,", "With sword and heavy gorz within my hand."]}, {"id": "C8.15.36", "lines": ["I speak so you may know what I have told;", "You are the Shah; the chiefs are in your fold."]}, {"id": "C8.15.37", "lines": ["You are a newcomer, though you may glow", "With all the royal farr of Kay Khosrow."]}, {"id": "C8.15.38", "lines": ["You see yourself alone; you cannot find", "The hidden matters kept beyond your mind."]}, {"id": "C8.15.39", "lines": ["Enough of words; I shall take up the wine,", "And crush this anxious thought, this care of mine.”"]}, {"id": "C8.16.1", "lines": ["When Esfandiyar heard what Rostam said,", "He smiled; his heart with swelling joy was fed."]}, {"id": "C8.16.2", "lines": ["He answered, “I have heard your toil and pain,", "The deeds and cares that made your spirit strain."]}, {"id": "C8.16.3", "lines": ["Now listen to the deeds my hand has done,", "The place above the chiefs that I have won."]}, {"id": "C8.16.4", "lines": ["For Faith I cinched my belt and cleared the land", "Of idol-worshippers on every hand."]}, {"id": "C8.16.5", "lines": ["Earth disappeared beneath the heaps of slain;", "No warrior had seen such war and pain."]}, {"id": "C8.16.6", "lines": ["Goshtasb, my father, comes of Lohrasp’s line;", "The seed of those two kings is also mine."]}, {"id": "C8.16.7", "lines": ["Lohrasp was son of Aurand, king of state,", "Whose name and standing in his time were great."]}, {"id": "C8.16.8", "lines": ["Aurand from Kay Pashin’s lineage came,", "Whose father’s blessings honored Pashin’s name."]}, {"id": "C8.16.9", "lines": ["Pashin came from Kay Qobad’s royal seed,", "A king of wisdom, just in thought and deed."]}, {"id": "C8.16.10", "lines": ["Pursue my line to Fereydoon, whose throne", "Adorned the world he ruled and called his own."]}, {"id": "C8.16.11", "lines": ["My mother, too, is Caesar’s child; his reign", "Holds Rum, the realm he rules as his domain."]}, {"id": "C8.16.12", "lines": ["And Caesar springs from Salm, whose noble seed", "Has farr and justice, ordered law and creed."]}, {"id": "C8.16.13", "lines": ["Salm was the son of Fereydoon; his name", "Among the kings won sovereign rank and fame."]}, {"id": "C8.16.14", "lines": ["I speak, and none can say my words are lies;", "Wrong paths are many; few are right and wise."]}, {"id": "C8.16.15", "lines": ["Before my fathers, wakeful, great, and brave,", "You and your forebears held the rank of slave."]}, {"id": "C8.16.16", "lines": ["No hidden mystery lies in what I say;", "My kings bestowed your greatness, though your way"]}, {"id": "C8.16.17", "lines": ["Was quick toward vengeance. Hear what I recount;", "Raise up your hand for truth in the account."]}, {"id": "C8.16.18", "lines": ["Since Shah Lohrasp gave Goshtasb the throne,", "My belt stays cinched; my strength and luck are known."]}, {"id": "C8.16.19", "lines": ["For those who went to Chin, revenge their aim,", "No voices rose thereafter in acclaim."]}, {"id": "C8.16.20", "lines": ["Then, at Gurazm’s words, my father bound", "Me, far from feasts where merriment was found."]}, {"id": "C8.16.21", "lines": ["Then ruin reached Lohrasp while chained I lay,", "And Turkish forces hid the earth that day."]}, {"id": "C8.16.22", "lines": ["Jamasp brought smiths to free me; they were slow,", "While all my heart was set to strike a blow."]}, {"id": "C8.16.23", "lines": ["I shouted at the smiths; my patience fled,", "And from their hands I pulled myself instead."]}, {"id": "C8.16.24", "lines": ["I rose up from my seat, and with my hand", "Broke shackles, chains, and every binding band."]}, {"id": "C8.16.25", "lines": ["Then I went to that field of bitter fate,", "Where Fortune had diminished Goshtasb’s state."]}, {"id": "C8.16.26", "lines": ["Before me fled Arjasp and his array,", "The famed companions fleeing on their way."]}, {"id": "C8.16.27", "lines": ["I girded my belt, with courage, for the chase,", "And followed like a lion, fierce of face."]}, {"id": "C8.16.28", "lines": ["You heard what in my Seven Stages came:", "The Divs and all their mighty group of fame."]}, {"id": "C8.16.29", "lines": ["By guile I entered Ruyin Dezh and hurled", "Confusion through its realm, upturned its world."]}, {"id": "C8.16.30", "lines": ["I sought revenge for all Iran; I tied", "My belt for blood of chiefs who fought and died."]}, {"id": "C8.16.31", "lines": ["You heard my deeds in Chin, and all the strain", "Of toil and hardship in Turan’s domain."]}, {"id": "C8.16.32", "lines": ["No gur from any leopard ever took", "Such pain, nor nahang’s mouth from fisher’s hook."]}, {"id": "C8.16.33", "lines": ["High on a mountain, far from human call,", "There stood a fortress towering over all."]}, {"id": "C8.16.34", "lines": ["Its people worshipped idols; all around,", "Confused as drunken men, they could be found."]}, {"id": "C8.16.35", "lines": ["Since days of Tur and Fereydoon of fame,", "No man in all the world had named its name."]}, {"id": "C8.16.36", "lines": ["By valor I took all that fortress held;", "Its idols, dashed to earth, I broke and felled."]}, {"id": "C8.16.37", "lines": ["I raised the Fire that Zardosht bore in flame,", "Within a brazier; from Paradise it came."]}, {"id": "C8.16.38", "lines": ["Through victory the one just God bestowed,", "I took again to Iran’s homeward road."]}, {"id": "C8.16.39", "lines": ["No enemy remained in any place;", "No Brahman in the temples left a trace."]}, {"id": "C8.16.40", "lines": ["Alone I sought the battle and its strain;", "No man in combat bore for me my pain."]}, {"id": "C8.16.41", "lines": ["Our words have lengthened; let them come to rest;", "Lift up the cup if thirst is in your breast.”"]}, {"id": "C8.17.1", "lines": ["Then Rostam spoke to prince Esfandiyar:", "“Our deeds endure; no time their fame can mar."]}, {"id": "C8.17.2", "lines": ["Now hear in simple justice what I say,", "A famed old man whose words you ought to weigh."]}, {"id": "C8.17.3", "lines": ["Had I not crossed Mazandaran alone,", "My heavy gorz across my shoulder thrown,"]}, {"id": "C8.17.4", "lines": ["Where lay the Shah, Gudarz, and Tus in chains,", "Their eyes grown dark beneath their grief and pains,"]}, {"id": "C8.17.5", "lines": ["Who would have torn the White Div’s heart and brain?", "Who hoped his arm could meet so great a strain?"]}, {"id": "C8.17.6", "lines": ["I brought the king from bonds back to his throne;", "Iran rejoiced; good fortune was his own."]}, {"id": "C8.17.7", "lines": ["I cut the heads from all the sorcerer crew;", "No vault, no shroud, no grave became their due."]}, {"id": "C8.17.8", "lines": ["Through Seven Stages, Rakhsh was at my side;", "My sharp sword won the world, both far and wide."]}, {"id": "C8.17.9", "lines": ["When Kavus went to Hamavaran’s seat,", "They fastened heavy fetters on his feet."]}, {"id": "C8.17.10", "lines": ["I took an army of Iran to fight,", "To where the chieftain held his place of might."]}, {"id": "C8.17.11", "lines": ["I killed their king amid the battle’s roar,", "And made its famous throne a throne no more."]}, {"id": "C8.17.12", "lines": ["The monarch Kay Kavus lay in their snare,", "Worn down by grief and burdened by despair."]}, {"id": "C8.17.13", "lines": ["Afrasiab held Iran in that hour;", "The world lay sick with pain beneath his power."]}, {"id": "C8.17.14", "lines": ["One dark night, I went on alone, ahead;", "I sought for fame, not ease upon a bed."]}, {"id": "C8.17.15", "lines": ["He saw my shining banner drawing near,", "And heard my Rakhsh’s neigh ring loud and clear."]}, {"id": "C8.17.16", "lines": ["He fled Iran, and Chin became his goal;", "The world gave thanks when justice took control."]}, {"id": "C8.17.17", "lines": ["Had blood poured from Kay Kavus’s neck, how then", "Could Siavash have come among us men?"]}, {"id": "C8.17.18", "lines": ["Had no blessed mother borne Kay Khosrow, who", "Would crown Lohrasp, as Khosrow lived to do?"]}, {"id": "C8.17.19", "lines": ["Why boast of Lohrasp’s crown and royal state,", "Of Goshtasb’s throne, and call their kingship great?"]}, {"id": "C8.17.20", "lines": ["He bids you bind these hands! What vain design!", "Not even high heaven shall bind hands like mine;"]}, {"id": "C8.17.21", "lines": ["Without me, where would you have found your throne,", "Your crown, your ivory seat to call your own?"]}, {"id": "C8.17.22", "lines": ["You are the world’s Pahlevan; your seed", "Is Kayanian, royal in its breed."]}, {"id": "C8.17.23", "lines": ["From boyhood to this hour of age and gray,", "No man had spoken so, until today."]}, {"id": "C8.17.24", "lines": ["My pleading brings me shame; my soft address", "Diminishes my worth to something less.”"]}, {"id": "C8.17.25", "lines": ["Prince Esfandiyar laughed at Rostam’s stand,", "Then firmly gripped the mighty hero’s hand."]}, {"id": "C8.17.26", "lines": ["He said, “O Rostam, elephant in frame,", "All men have spoken truly of your fame."]}, {"id": "C8.17.27", "lines": ["Your arm is thick as any lion’s limb;", "Your chest and neck, a dragon’s, strong and grim."]}, {"id": "C8.17.28", "lines": ["Your leopard’s waist is narrow, lean and slight,", "And twists and turns upon the day of fight.”"]}, {"id": "C8.17.29", "lines": ["He squeezed the hand of Rostam as he spoke;", "The old man laughed at youth, as at a joke."]}, {"id": "C8.17.30", "lines": ["From Rostam’s nails the yellow fluid ran;", "Yet all that pain could not stir such a man."]}, {"id": "C8.17.31", "lines": ["Then Rostam took his hand and gripped it too:", "“O king who worships God, I speak to you:"]}, {"id": "C8.17.32", "lines": ["Blessed is famous Shah Goshtasb today,", "To have a son whose fame none can gainsay."]}, {"id": "C8.17.33", "lines": ["Blessed is he who gains so fine a son;", "Through you the world has greater glory won.”"]}, {"id": "C8.17.34", "lines": ["He spoke and held the prince’s hand; the red", "Of blood across the prince’s features spread."]}, {"id": "C8.17.35", "lines": ["The prince’s nails welled bloody water; pain", "Drew tight his brows beneath the gripping strain."]}, {"id": "C8.17.36", "lines": ["Then fortunate Esfandiyar laughed free,", "And said, “Renowned Rostam, hear this from me:"]}, {"id": "C8.17.37", "lines": ["Drink wine today; tomorrow in the fight", "Will see you writhe and lose the feast’s delight."]}, {"id": "C8.17.38", "lines": ["When my black steed is saddled for the fray", "With gold, and I don my royal helm that day,"]}, {"id": "C8.17.39", "lines": ["I shall unhorse you, striking with my spear;", "No feud or vengeance will you seek from here."]}, {"id": "C8.17.40", "lines": ["I shall bring you, hands bound, before the throne,", "And say, ‘No fault in him to me was shown.’"]}, {"id": "C8.17.41", "lines": ["I shall entreat him; every point at stake", "Between you shall be settled for your sake."]}, {"id": "C8.17.42", "lines": ["I shall free you from grief and bitter strain;", "You shall have wealth and treasure after pain.”"]}, {"id": "C8.17.43", "lines": ["Then Rostam smiled at prince Esfandiyar,", "And said, “You shall have war enough, by far."]}, {"id": "C8.17.44", "lines": ["Where have you seen the clash of battle’s course?", "Where felt the wind of heavy gorzes’ force?"]}, {"id": "C8.17.45", "lines": ["If this is now the aspect of the sky,", "Love between two such men will fade and die."]}, {"id": "C8.17.46", "lines": ["Revenge shall come in place of ruddy wine,", "And bow and kamand, ambush and design."]}, {"id": "C8.17.47", "lines": ["Tabiras’ roar shall take the harp’s own place;", "With sword and gorz we then shall greet your face."]}, {"id": "C8.17.48", "lines": ["Then, glorious Esfandiyar, your eyes", "Will see the rush and pulse of battle rise."]}, {"id": "C8.17.49", "lines": ["Tomorrow, when you fight, we two shall stand", "As man meets man upon the battle land."]}, {"id": "C8.17.50", "lines": ["I shall seize you from saddle in embrace,", "And carry you to Zal’s exalted place."]}, {"id": "C8.17.51", "lines": ["Then seat you on the famed ivory throne,", "And crown you with the crown I made my own,"]}, {"id": "C8.17.52", "lines": ["The crown of Kay Qobad, the heart’s delight;", "May Paradise make glad his spirit bright."]}, {"id": "C8.17.53", "lines": ["I shall unlock my hoards; their riches, too,", "I shall array in full in front of you."]}, {"id": "C8.17.54", "lines": ["I shall relieve your troops of all their dearth,", "And by that act shall raise your crown in worth."]}, {"id": "C8.17.55", "lines": ["Then I shall go before the Shah; the way", "Shall see me glad, triumphant, light and gay."]}, {"id": "C8.17.56", "lines": ["By valor I shall crown you and shall earn", "The gratitude of Goshtasb in return."]}, {"id": "C8.17.57", "lines": ["Then I shall gird my belt to serve, as when", "I served the Kayanian kings of men."]}, {"id": "C8.17.58", "lines": ["I shall clear all the garden’s thorns, and through", "My joy make this old body fresh and new."]}, {"id": "C8.17.59", "lines": ["When you are Shah and I your Pahlevan, who", "Could keep his life and stand against us two?”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.1", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “Enough of speech;", "These endless words have nothing more to teach."]}, {"id": "C8.18.2", "lines": ["My belly hungers; half the day is gone;", "Our talk of strife and battle still runs on."]}, {"id": "C8.18.3", "lines": ["Bring what you have; let food be served instead,", "But call no man who talks too much,” he said."]}, {"id": "C8.18.4", "lines": ["When food was spread and Rostam took his seat,", "They watched amazed at how the chief could eat."]}, {"id": "C8.18.5", "lines": ["Esfandiyar and all his heroes laid", "Before him lambs in lavish spread displayed."]}, {"id": "C8.18.6", "lines": ["He ate them all, while prince and people stared;", "The prince’s wonder all his people shared."]}, {"id": "C8.18.7", "lines": ["The prince said, “Bring a cup; let raw wine pour", "In place of cooked wine served to us before."]}, {"id": "C8.18.8", "lines": ["Now see what Rostam seeks in wine today,", "And what of Kay Kavus he has to say.”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.9", "lines": ["The cupbearer brought wine; the cup was wide", "Enough to let a ship sail on its tide."]}, {"id": "C8.18.10", "lines": ["He drank to the king of kings; that spring of red", "He drained till dust rose from its empty bed."]}, {"id": "C8.18.11", "lines": ["The young cupbearer turned again and bore", "The royal wine, replenished as before."]}, {"id": "C8.18.12", "lines": ["Then Rostam spoke to Bishutan aside:", "“Why must your water in this wine reside?"]}, {"id": "C8.18.13", "lines": ["Why pour in water, weakening the bite", "Of ancient wine and robbing it of might?”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.14", "lines": ["Then Bishutan gave orders: “Fill the bowl", "With wine and let no water spoil the whole.”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.15", "lines": ["Wine came; they called the minstrels to the feast,", "And still their wonder at him had not ceased."]}, {"id": "C8.18.16", "lines": ["The hour of parting neared; the ruby shine", "Rose in great Rostam’s face, suffused with wine."]}, {"id": "C8.18.17", "lines": ["Then Esfandiyar spoke: “May joy attend", "Your life as long as time has days to spend."]}, {"id": "C8.18.18", "lines": ["May wine and all you ate bring you delight;", "May truth sustain your soul and give it might.”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.19", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “O prince, may wisdom’s voice", "Admonish you and guide your inward choice."]}, {"id": "C8.18.20", "lines": ["The wine I drink with you is sweet; it brings", "Sustenance to the soul where wisdom springs."]}, {"id": "C8.18.21", "lines": ["If from your heart this hatred you release,", "Your greatness and your wisdom will increase."]}, {"id": "C8.18.22", "lines": ["Come from this field, my happy guest to be;", "Spend some time in my house, in joy with me."]}, {"id": "C8.18.23", "lines": ["Come grace our house with joy, and do not stay", "Apart from me, your servant, far away."]}, {"id": "C8.18.24", "lines": ["Then I shall keep each promise I have made,", "With wisdom brought before you for your aid."]}, {"id": "C8.18.25", "lines": ["Rest, shun all ill; let human kindness be", "Your aim, and let your mind awake and see.”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.26", "lines": ["Esfandiyar, the hero, answered so:", "“Sow no such seed; no shoots from it will grow."]}, {"id": "C8.18.27", "lines": ["Tomorrow you shall see what heroes do,", "When I bind tight my girdle facing you."]}, {"id": "C8.18.28", "lines": ["Do not praise yourself; return today,", "And make your preparations for the fray."]}, {"id": "C8.18.29", "lines": ["In battle you shall see me and shall find", "The selfsame man with whom at wine you dined."]}, {"id": "C8.18.30", "lines": ["Accept my counsel, heed the Shah’s commands;", "Come, let the royal bonds enclose your hands."]}, {"id": "C8.18.31", "lines": ["Know, before God, the Shah’s command is one", "With God’s own word; give thanks and see it done."]}, {"id": "C8.18.32", "lines": ["When I leave Zabul, I shall make my way", "To Iran, where the Shah and heroes stay."]}, {"id": "C8.18.33", "lines": ["You shall see more prowess than words express;", "Seek not to bring me, through this work, distress.”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.34", "lines": ["Then grief and thought weighed down great Rostam’s breast;", "The world appeared a forest of unrest."]}, {"id": "C8.18.35", "lines": ["He thought, “To give my hands into his chain,", "Or rise and hurt him, both are shame and stain."]}, {"id": "C8.18.36", "lines": ["Both courses are inglorious and base;", "Both set a bitter precedent in place."]}, {"id": "C8.18.37", "lines": ["If bonds are mine, my name will suffer blame;", "Goshtasb will bring my end to grief and shame."]}, {"id": "C8.18.38", "lines": ["Wherever men repeat this tale, the stain", "Of lasting blame shall on my name remain."]}, {"id": "C8.18.39", "lines": ["They will say, ‘A youth came to Zabul; flight", "Failed Rostam, and his feet were fettered tight.’"]}, {"id": "C8.18.40", "lines": ["Then all my fame will rot in lasting shame;", "No hue or scent will linger of my name."]}, {"id": "C8.18.41", "lines": ["But if he falls upon the battlefield,", "My face before all kings will pale and yield."]}, {"id": "C8.18.42", "lines": ["They shall declare, ‘He slew the youthful heir", "Because the prince’s taunts he could not bear.’"]}, {"id": "C8.18.43", "lines": ["When dead, they will revile me where I lie,", "And call me faithless underneath the sky."]}, {"id": "C8.18.44", "lines": ["Again, if I should perish by his hand,", "All Zabul’s hue and scent will leave the land."]}, {"id": "C8.18.45", "lines": ["The name of Dastan, Sahm’s own son, will fall;", "No man from Zabul will find fame at all."]}, {"id": "C8.18.46", "lines": ["Yet men at least shall quote good words from me,", "When I have passed beyond what eyes can see."]}, {"id": "C8.18.47", "lines": ["If any word of counsel stayed unsaid,", "Then wisdom would demand my life instead.”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.48", "lines": ["Then to that noble-minded prince he said,", "“Concern has made my face grow pale with dread."]}, {"id": "C8.18.49", "lines": ["Why speak so much of bonds before my sight?", "I fear they bring you sorrow, grief, and blight."]}, {"id": "C8.18.50", "lines": ["Unless high heaven wills it otherwise,", "No man can read the turning of the skies."]}, {"id": "C8.18.51", "lines": ["These counsels come from Divs, and now you turn", "From wisdom’s words a prudent man should learn."]}, {"id": "C8.18.52", "lines": ["You are still green and guileless; understand", "Your death is sought by him who rules the land."]}, {"id": "C8.18.53", "lines": ["While Goshtasb holds the royal seat and crown,", "He will not set his thirst for kingship down."]}, {"id": "C8.18.54", "lines": ["He keeps you roaming through a world of pain,", "And rears you through its hardships, strain on strain."]}, {"id": "C8.18.55", "lines": ["He searched the world with wisdom’s axe in hand,", "His wit an adze to shape the work he planned:"]}, {"id": "C8.18.56", "lines": ["To find a famous man who would not yield", "Or turn from fighting you upon the field,"]}, {"id": "C8.18.57", "lines": ["So that the warrior’s hand might do you harm,", "And crown and throne be subject to his arm."]}, {"id": "C8.18.58", "lines": ["For this, I may cry curses on the crown,", "And on a pillow made of dust lie down."]}, {"id": "C8.18.59", "lines": ["Will you expose my soul to lasting blame?", "Why will you not examine well your aim?"]}, {"id": "C8.18.60", "lines": ["You bring this pain upon yourself; beware:", "Think ill and ill will be your coming share."]}, {"id": "C8.18.61", "lines": ["Do not act boyishly, O prince; refrain;", "Delight not in the ill that brings us pain."]}, {"id": "C8.18.62", "lines": ["Do not bring sorrow on our souls today;", "Keep harm from both our lives, I beg and pray."]}, {"id": "C8.18.63", "lines": ["Respect both God and me; do not betray", "My life or yours by taking such a way."]}, {"id": "C8.18.64", "lines": ["You have no need to fight with me, or bend", "Your strength toward this assault, or thus contend."]}, {"id": "C8.18.65", "lines": ["Fate drives you with your troops toward your last breath;", "My hand will bring you ruin and your death."]}, {"id": "C8.18.66", "lines": ["My name will live in shame; may Goshtasb see", "An evil end for what he brings on me!”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.67", "lines": ["When proud Esfandiyar had heard him through,", "He said, “Famed Rostam, hear what I tell you:"]}, {"id": "C8.18.68", "lines": ["Recall the words an ancient sage once said,", "When wisdom and his soul were joined and wed:"]}, {"id": "C8.18.69", "lines": ["‘An aged trickster is a fool; success", "And wisdom do not make his folly less.’"]}, {"id": "C8.18.70", "lines": ["You ply these tricks, still hoping to evade", "The collar and the bonds for you now laid."]}, {"id": "C8.18.71", "lines": ["You wish all those who hear your words to take", "Your fair speech for the truth, for your own sake;"]}, {"id": "C8.18.72", "lines": ["To call my counsel foul, and you the man", "Of wisdom, doing all the good he can."]}, {"id": "C8.18.73", "lines": ["They will say, ‘With fair bearing Rostam came", "And offered hope; the prince deserves the blame:"]}, {"id": "C8.18.74", "lines": ["He turned from Rostam’s words, though Rostam’s part", "Had been to treat him well, with generous heart."]}, {"id": "C8.18.75", "lines": ["He held each plea in scorn; his tongue let fall", "Its bitter words in answer to them all.’"]}, {"id": "C8.18.76", "lines": ["Know that I will not turn away, disown", "The Shah’s command, for either crown or throne."]}, {"id": "C8.18.77", "lines": ["Through him come good and evil; in his hand", "My Hell and Paradise together stand."]}, {"id": "C8.18.78", "lines": ["May what you ate today bring strength to you,", "And harm to all who wish you evil too."]}, {"id": "C8.18.79", "lines": ["Now go to Zal in safety and repeat", "All that you saw and heard when we did meet."]}, {"id": "C8.18.80", "lines": ["Prepare your weapons; all for battle lay", "In readiness and have no more to say."]}, {"id": "C8.18.81", "lines": ["Come fight at dawn; prepare, and do not stay", "Prolonging this affair with more delay."]}, {"id": "C8.18.82", "lines": ["Tomorrow, on the field, before your sight", "The world will darken, losing all its light."]}, {"id": "C8.18.83", "lines": ["You shall learn how the valiant meet and fight,", "How true men wage their battles in their might.”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.84", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “O prince of lion’s heart,", "If this is your wish, I shall do my part."]}, {"id": "C8.18.85", "lines": ["On swift Rakhsh I shall greet you face to face;", "Your head shall taste my gorz’s hard embrace."]}, {"id": "C8.18.86", "lines": ["You heard the men around you; what they said", "You took on trust, and kept within your head:"]}, {"id": "C8.18.87", "lines": ["‘No sword, however fierce the battle’s strife,", "Can harm Esfandiyar or end his life.’"]}, {"id": "C8.18.88", "lines": ["Tomorrow you will see my spear, and feel", "How, with the reins drawn round, my horse can wheel."]}, {"id": "C8.18.89", "lines": ["Thereafter you will never seek a fight", "With men renowned upon the field of might.”"]}, {"id": "C8.18.90", "lines": ["The young man laughed; his noble nature gave", "Way to that laughter and became its slave."]}, {"id": "C8.18.91", "lines": ["He said, “O seeker after fame, take heed;", "Why did our talk rouse anger with such speed?"]}, {"id": "C8.18.92", "lines": ["Tomorrow you shall learn on battle’s plain", "What proven men can do through strife and pain."]}, {"id": "C8.18.93", "lines": ["My horse is like a mountain; here I stand,", "One man alone, without a warrior band."]}, {"id": "C8.18.94", "lines": ["Should my gorz’s wind touch your head, then weep", "Your mother shall, with liver’s anguish deep."]}, {"id": "C8.18.95", "lines": ["If you live, I shall bind you fast and ride", "To the Shah, with you upon my saddle tied."]}, {"id": "C8.18.96", "lines": ["So that no servant, trusting in his arm,", "Shall rise in war to do his sovereign harm.”"]}, {"id": "C8.19.1", "lines": ["When Rostam left the tent, he paused to wait,", "And stood a while before its outer gate."]}, {"id": "C8.19.2", "lines": ["He spoke to it: “O house of hope and fame,", "Blessed were the days when Jamshid through you came."]}, {"id": "C8.19.3", "lines": ["Great were your days when mighty Kavus reigned,", "And under Kay Khosrow that joy remained."]}, {"id": "C8.19.4", "lines": ["Your door of farr is shut; no worth is shown", "By him who sits upon your royal throne.”"]}, {"id": "C8.19.5", "lines": ["Esfandiyar heard Rostam’s words and came", "On foot to meet the warrior of fame."]}, {"id": "C8.19.6", "lines": ["He said, “O man of judgment, why display", "Such anger at this royal tent today?"]}, {"id": "C8.19.7", "lines": ["A sage might call this land Ghulghulistan:", "‘The land of uproar’ suits Zabulistan."]}, {"id": "C8.19.8", "lines": ["A guest, once fed, repays his host with blame,", "And speaks with scorn the gardener’s very name.”"]}, {"id": "C8.19.9", "lines": ["Then to the tent: “Ill were the days you knew", "When Jamshid found his shelter here in you."]}, {"id": "C8.19.10", "lines": ["Yet he forsook the path that God had shown,", "And lost earth’s joy and Paradise his own."]}, {"id": "C8.19.11", "lines": ["You served Shah Kavus as a sheltering wall,", "And spread your shade above his soldiers all."]}, {"id": "C8.19.12", "lines": ["He sought God’s mysteries; he searched the skies", "To see the stars made clear before his eyes."]}, {"id": "C8.19.13", "lines": ["He filled the earth with tumult and with raids,", "With clubs and plunder, and with khanjar blades."]}, {"id": "C8.19.14", "lines": ["Goshtasb now owns you, and Jamasp is near,", "Before his presence, honored, wise, and clear."]}, {"id": "C8.19.15", "lines": ["On one side sits Zardosht; from Paradise", "He came with Zand-Avesta’s wise advice."]}, {"id": "C8.19.16", "lines": ["Good Bishutan sits facing him; his mind", "Leaves worldly grief and pleasure far behind."]}, {"id": "C8.19.17", "lines": ["In front stands glorious prince Esfandiyar,", "Who gladdens turning heaven, every star."]}, {"id": "C8.19.18", "lines": ["Good hearts revive through him; his sword has made", "The wicked bow in bondage, all afraid.”"]}, {"id": "C8.19.19", "lines": ["The mounted hero left; the prince’s eye", "Followed the famous horseman passing by."]}, {"id": "C8.19.20", "lines": ["He turned to Bishutan: “We cannot hide", "Such valor; prowess must not be denied."]}, {"id": "C8.19.21", "lines": ["No horse or horseman like him have I known;", "How he will fare in battle is not shown."]}, {"id": "C8.19.22", "lines": ["If armed he comes to meet me, breast to breast,", "He looms, an elephant on Mount Gang’s crest."]}, {"id": "C8.19.23", "lines": ["His farr and handsome form delight the sight;", "I fear tomorrow brings him down in fight."]}, {"id": "C8.19.24", "lines": ["The glory of his face inflames my heart,", "Yet from the Maker’s word I will not part."]}, {"id": "C8.19.25", "lines": ["When Rostam comes tomorrow to the field,", "By me his shining day to night shall yield.”"]}, {"id": "C8.19.26", "lines": ["Then Bishutan replied, “Now hear my plea;", "My brother, stop; this must not come to be."]}, {"id": "C8.19.27", "lines": ["I told you once and now repeat my view:", "My heart will never turn from what is true."]}, {"id": "C8.19.28", "lines": ["Oppress no man; no noble will remain", "With head bowed down to injury and pain."]}, {"id": "C8.19.29", "lines": ["Rest here tonight; at dawn, with none beside,", "Go to his palace; let this grief subside."]}, {"id": "C8.19.30", "lines": ["Let us make glad the day within his hall,", "And answer what they ask us, one and all."]}, {"id": "C8.19.31", "lines": ["Among the mighty and among the least,", "His deeds bring good to all, from west to east."]}, {"id": "C8.19.32", "lines": ["He will not turn from what you bid him do;", "I find his heart keeps faith and pledge with you."]}, {"id": "C8.19.33", "lines": ["Why speak with hate and wrath? Wash hate away", "From your heart; clear your eyes of wrath today.”"]}, {"id": "C8.19.34", "lines": ["The prince replied, “The rose garden has borne", "Within one corner an unwelcome thorn."]}, {"id": "C8.19.35", "lines": ["A man of pure religion would not choose", "Such words as those you now have dared to use."]}, {"id": "C8.19.36", "lines": ["If you are Iran’s dastur, heart and ear", "And eye of warriors, then make this clear:"]}, {"id": "C8.19.37", "lines": ["How can you praise a course, however wise,", "That brings the Shah’s dishonor to our eyes?"]}, {"id": "C8.19.38", "lines": ["Then all our cares and labors go to waste,", "And Zardosht’s faith lies openly disgraced."]}, {"id": "C8.19.39", "lines": ["It teaches those who break the Shah’s command", "Will find their place in Hell’s consuming land."]}, {"id": "C8.19.40", "lines": ["You tell me, ‘Sin! Reject the Shah today;", "Turn from the words of Goshtasb; disobey.’"]}, {"id": "C8.19.41", "lines": ["You speak, but how can I pursue that way,", "And turn from what he thinks and has to say?"]}, {"id": "C8.19.42", "lines": ["If you have fears for me, dismiss them now;", "Today I break that fear, and show you how:"]}, {"id": "C8.19.43", "lines": ["No man dies till his time; a man of fame", "Does not die, for he leaves a mighty name."]}, {"id": "C8.19.44", "lines": ["Tomorrow you shall see me face and fight", "This clawed nahang and show a warrior’s might.”"]}, {"id": "C8.19.45", "lines": ["Said Bishutan, “O king, why must you dwell", "On battle still, with more of it to tell?"]}, {"id": "C8.19.46", "lines": ["Since first you reached the age of gorz and bow,", "Iblis had never thought to find you so."]}, {"id": "C8.19.47", "lines": ["You let the Div into your heart, and spurn", "The counsel of this guide, which you should learn."]}, {"id": "C8.19.48", "lines": ["Your heart is obstinate in strife; I tear", "To shreds the very garment that I wear."]}, {"id": "C8.19.49", "lines": ["How can I cast this terror from my heart,", "When I am breaking utterly apart?"]}, {"id": "C8.19.50", "lines": ["Two warriors, two lions; who can guess", "Whose back the other’s weight to earth will press?”"]}, {"id": "C8.19.51", "lines": ["The prince gave no reply; no word was said;", "Pain filled his heart, and pride possessed his head."]}, {"id": "C8.20.1", "lines": ["When Rostam reached his palace, he stood by", "And watched his comrades with a searching eye."]}, {"id": "C8.20.2", "lines": ["Zavareh came and found him pale with grief;", "The hero spoke in gloom, beyond relief:"]}, {"id": "C8.20.3", "lines": ["“Bring me my Indian sword and battle gear,", "My jowshan and my helmet; bring them here."]}, {"id": "C8.20.4", "lines": ["Bring bow, bargostvan, tiger-skin to wear,", "My kamand, heavy gorz, jowshan to bear.”"]}, {"id": "C8.20.5", "lines": ["Zavareh bade the treasurer obey,", "And bring the arms that lay concealed away."]}, {"id": "C8.20.6", "lines": ["When Rostam saw his gear, he shook his head,", "And drew a deep sigh from his breast, and said:"]}, {"id": "C8.20.7", "lines": ["“O zereh, you have rested for a while", "From battle’s noise and danger’s bitter trial."]}, {"id": "C8.20.8", "lines": ["Now stand firm in the task that waits for you;", "Be fortune’s shirt in all that we must do."]}, {"id": "C8.20.9", "lines": ["What field is this, where two bold lions fight,", "Both roaring as they meet in all their might?"]}, {"id": "C8.20.10", "lines": ["Now what will Esfandiyar bring to bear?", "What move will he attempt? What will he dare?”"]}, {"id": "C8.20.11", "lines": ["When Zal had heard these words, his heart grew sore;", "The ancient man grew troubled more and more."]}, {"id": "C8.20.12", "lines": ["He said, “Famed Pahlevan, what words are these", "That strip my troubled spirit of its ease?"]}, {"id": "C8.20.13", "lines": ["Since first you mounted battle’s saddle, you", "Have kept one heart, sincere and firm and true."]}, {"id": "C8.20.14", "lines": ["Obeying Shahs, you always held your head", "On high, your heart released from pain and dread."]}, {"id": "C8.20.15", "lines": ["I fear your days are drawing to their close,", "Your star is falling into deep repose."]}, {"id": "C8.20.16", "lines": ["They will uproot the house of Zal and throw", "Its wives and children to the dust below."]}, {"id": "C8.20.17", "lines": ["If young Esfandiyar should take your life", "Upon the field, amid the battle’s strife,"]}, {"id": "C8.20.18", "lines": ["No water, soil, or height of Zabul’s ground", "Will last; where high land stood, a pit is found."]}, {"id": "C8.20.19", "lines": ["Yet if through you some harm should fall on him,", "Your own exalted fame will fade and dim."]}, {"id": "C8.20.20", "lines": ["Those telling this will shatter your renown,", "And bring your ancient glory crashing down."]}, {"id": "C8.20.21", "lines": ["Men say, ‘He slew a prince of Iran’s land,", "A valiant rider perished by his hand.’"]}, {"id": "C8.20.22", "lines": ["So, stand before him as a loyal man,", "Or leave your home and hide while still you can."]}, {"id": "C8.20.23", "lines": ["Seek some obscure retreat unknown to fame,", "That none on earth may ever hear your name."]}, {"id": "C8.20.24", "lines": ["This wrong would darken all your soul with fear;", "Beware the youthful prince; do not draw near."]}, {"id": "C8.20.25", "lines": ["With wealth and toil redeem the words you said;", "Set no axe where Chin’s brocade is spread."]}, {"id": "C8.20.26", "lines": ["Prepare rich robes to give his men; bestow", "Your wealth upon him; buy release from woe."]}, {"id": "C8.20.27", "lines": ["As soon as he departs the Hirmund’s tide,", "Mount lofty Rakhsh and journey at his side."]}, {"id": "C8.20.28", "lines": ["Once safe, attend the prince along the way,", "Until you see the Shah in his array."]}, {"id": "C8.20.29", "lines": ["How can he wrong you when he sees your face?", "Would such a deed bring Iran’s monarch grace?”"]}, {"id": "C8.20.30", "lines": ["The ancient hero Rostam answered Zal:", "“Do not think lightly of this strife at all."]}, {"id": "C8.20.31", "lines": ["Long have I lived and known both good and ill;", "Through years of manhood, I have faced them still."]}, {"id": "C8.20.32", "lines": ["I reached the Divs within Mazandaran,", "And fought the men of fierce Hamavaran."]}, {"id": "C8.20.33", "lines": ["I fought Kamus and Chin’s great Khan; the ground", "Beneath his steed shook, trembling all around."]}, {"id": "C8.20.34", "lines": ["If I should flee the prince, retain no more", "Your Sistan halls and gardens as before."]}, {"id": "C8.20.35", "lines": ["When I put on my tiger-skin to fight,", "I drag the moon to dust from heaven’s height."]}, {"id": "C8.20.36", "lines": ["You spoke of pleas; I pleaded, as you said,", "And all the book of humble service read."]}, {"id": "C8.20.37", "lines": ["He scorns my words and holds my counsel light,", "And turns from wisdom and discerning sight."]}, {"id": "C8.20.38", "lines": ["But if he bends his head from Saturn’s height,", "And greets me warmly with a heart upright,"]}, {"id": "C8.20.39", "lines": ["No gems or treasure would I grudge that guest;", "No gorz, no club, no sword, no armored vest."]}, {"id": "C8.20.40", "lines": ["Through many sittings I have said my part;", "I hold but wind for all my speaking art."]}, {"id": "C8.20.41", "lines": ["Tomorrow, if he is resolved to fight,", "Let not your heart be troubled for his plight."]}, {"id": "C8.20.42", "lines": ["I shall not take my sword in hand to slay;", "I shall not wound his body in the fray."]}, {"id": "C8.20.43", "lines": ["I shall rein round to meet him; he shall feel", "No gorz-blow, nor my spearhead’s wounding steel."]}, {"id": "C8.20.44", "lines": ["I shall block his path, grasp him round the waist;", "My strength shall hold him, firmly clasped and braced."]}, {"id": "C8.20.45", "lines": ["From saddle I shall lift him in embrace,", "And welcome him with all a monarch’s grace."]}, {"id": "C8.20.46", "lines": ["I shall seat him high on our splendid throne,", "And open wide each treasury I own."]}, {"id": "C8.20.47", "lines": ["When he has stayed three days as guest with me,", "Upon the fourth, when dawn makes darkness flee,"]}, {"id": "C8.20.48", "lines": ["When day casts off its lapis robe of night,", "The yellow jeweled cup comes into sight,"]}, {"id": "C8.20.49", "lines": ["Then I shall gird myself and leave this place", "With him, to look upon Goshtasb’s face."]}, {"id": "C8.20.50", "lines": ["Then seat him on the ivory throne and crown", "His head with that bright joy of high renown."]}, {"id": "C8.20.51", "lines": ["I shall gird up, his slave with all my heart,", "And from Esfandiyar I shall not part."]}, {"id": "C8.20.52", "lines": ["You know the deeds I did for crown and state,", "Before Kay Qobad’s throne in years of fate."]}, {"id": "C8.20.53", "lines": ["Yet now you bid me hide in some retreat,", "Or yield my hands in chains before defeat!”"]}, {"id": "C8.20.54", "lines": ["Zal laughed to hear the words that Rostam said,", "Then paused in thought and slowly shook his head."]}, {"id": "C8.20.55", "lines": ["He answered, “Son, your words lack head and tail;", "Only the mad could credit such a tale."]}, {"id": "C8.20.56", "lines": ["Qobad sat gloomy, with no crown to wear,", "No throne, no ancient treasure in his care."]}, {"id": "C8.20.57", "lines": ["Do not equate him with Iran’s own king,", "Whose wealth is old, whose judgment guides each thing."]}, {"id": "C8.20.58", "lines": ["Esfandiyar’s name is graven as a sign", "Upon the Chinese ruler’s signet fine."]}, {"id": "C8.20.59", "lines": ["You say, ‘I shall lift him from his saddle’s seat,", "And bear him in my arms to Zal’s retreat.’"]}, {"id": "C8.20.60", "lines": ["No elder should speak thus; do not pursue", "The path of thanklessness in what you do."]}, {"id": "C8.20.61", "lines": ["I told you what my counsel is; you know", "My judgment, chief; now choose the way you go.”"]}, {"id": "C8.20.62", "lines": ["He bowed his head to earth in humble praise,", "And blessed the Maker of the world and days."]}, {"id": "C8.20.63", "lines": ["He prayed, “Victorious Judge, turn ill away;", "Avert from us the grief of this dark day.”"]}, {"id": "C8.20.64", "lines": ["Until the sun rose from the mountain height,", "His tongue prayed tirelessly throughout the night."]}, {"id": "C8.21.1", "lines": ["When day arrived, brave Rostam’s frame was cased", "In jowshan, tiger-skin above it placed."]}, {"id": "C8.21.2", "lines": ["He tied his kamand to the saddle tight,", "Then mounted Rakhsh, an elephant in might."]}, {"id": "C8.21.3", "lines": ["He summoned brave Zavareh to his side,", "And spoke at length of troops he must provide."]}, {"id": "C8.21.4", "lines": ["“Go marshal all the men and take your stand", "Upon those sandy hills with steady hand.”"]}, {"id": "C8.21.5", "lines": ["Zavareh went and mustered for the fray", "The troops that toward the battlefield made way."]}, {"id": "C8.21.6", "lines": ["When matchless Rostam from his palace came,", "Spear in his hand, the troops blessed him by name."]}, {"id": "C8.21.7", "lines": ["“May horse and gorz and saddle never know", "Your loss,” they cried, “wherever you may go.”"]}, {"id": "C8.21.8", "lines": ["Zavareh followed, trusted in command,", "As Rostam rode toward Hirmund’s river strand."]}, {"id": "C8.21.9", "lines": ["His lips were full of boasts, his heart of thought,", "As to the riverbank his way he sought."]}, {"id": "C8.21.10", "lines": ["His brother and the troops stayed at their base;", "Alone, he neared Iran’s lines at wary pace."]}, {"id": "C8.21.11", "lines": ["He told Zavareh privately, “This man", "Is Div-like, ill in nature and in plan."]}, {"id": "C8.21.12", "lines": ["Even now I would restrain the prince from fight,", "And lead his soul toward understanding’s light."]}, {"id": "C8.21.13", "lines": ["I fear I must fight him; I do not know", "What afterward the course of things will show."]}, {"id": "C8.21.14", "lines": ["Remain here; keep the army in your hand;", "I go to see what fortune now has planned."]}, {"id": "C8.21.15", "lines": ["If I shall find him furious in his mood,", "I will not call the chiefs to join the feud."]}, {"id": "C8.21.16", "lines": ["Alone I fight and spare my men the pain", "Of wounds received upon the battle plain."]}, {"id": "C8.21.17", "lines": ["The man whose heart is just will, in the end,", "Win joy and victory, with fate his friend.”"]}, {"id": "C8.21.18", "lines": ["He left the riverbank and sought the height,", "Amazed at how the world turned in his sight."]}, {"id": "C8.21.19", "lines": ["He called, “Esfandiyar, renowned and great,", "Your match has come; prepare for war; I wait.”"]}, {"id": "C8.21.20", "lines": ["The prince heard Rostam calling from on high,", "An ancient lion’s roaring battle-cry."]}, {"id": "C8.21.21", "lines": ["He laughed: “I rose from sleep prepared to fight;", "Look, I am ready now to meet your might.”"]}, {"id": "C8.21.22", "lines": ["He bade them bring his helm, his breastplate’s steel,", "His spear and ox-head gorz, for war’s ordeal."]}, {"id": "C8.21.23", "lines": ["He donned his jowshan, set upon his head", "His Kayanian helm, as he had said."]}, {"id": "C8.21.24", "lines": ["He bade them saddle up his charger black,", "And bring it to him, harness on its back."]}, {"id": "C8.21.25", "lines": ["He saw the sable horse; his strength and pride", "Of manhood stirred him at the horse’s side."]}, {"id": "C8.21.26", "lines": ["He set his spear’s butt firmly on the ground,", "Then vaulted to the saddle with a bound."]}, {"id": "C8.21.27", "lines": ["As when a leopard lands upon the back", "Of some wild ass that cries at the attack."]}, {"id": "C8.21.28", "lines": ["The soldiers watched him, marveling at the sight,", "And blessed their famous champion’s strength and might."]}, {"id": "C8.21.29", "lines": ["He rode, and saw upon his steed alone", "Great Rostam, with no comrade of his own."]}, {"id": "C8.21.30", "lines": ["He called to Bishutan upon his steed,", "“To fight this man, no friend or mate I need."]}, {"id": "C8.21.31", "lines": ["Since he stands there alone, I too shall go,", "And mount that lofty height before the foe.”"]}, {"id": "C8.21.32", "lines": ["Both rode to war as though the world had ceased", "To hold a place for revelry or feast."]}, {"id": "C8.21.33", "lines": ["Old man and youth drew near, two chiefs of might,", "Two proud and noble lions poised to fight."]}, {"id": "C8.21.34", "lines": ["Their chargers neighed; the field seemed split and rent,", "As through the battlefield their voices went."]}, {"id": "C8.21.35", "lines": ["Then Rostam shouted, “Man of happy star,", "Of joyful heart, whose fortunes prosper far,"]}, {"id": "C8.21.36", "lines": ["Do not contend like this; let evil cease,", "And hear a wise man’s counsel here in peace."]}, {"id": "C8.21.37", "lines": ["If war and spilling blood are what you choose,", "If such a bitter struggle you would use,"]}, {"id": "C8.21.38", "lines": ["Then let me bring Zabul’s brave horsemen here,", "In jowshans, Kabul khanjars for their gear."]}, {"id": "C8.21.39", "lines": ["Call Iran’s warriors also to the test,", "To show whose skill and valor prove the best."]}, {"id": "C8.21.40", "lines": ["Let both great armies meet, and battle rage,", "While you and I stand back, their strength to gauge."]}, {"id": "C8.21.41", "lines": ["Bloodshed will meet your wish upon the ground;", "You shall see men rush in and grapple round.”"]}, {"id": "C8.21.42", "lines": ["“Vain words! At dawn, to fight, you left your hall,", "And from this height,” the prince said, “made your call."]}, {"id": "C8.21.43", "lines": ["Why set these traps and tricks? It would appear", "You see decline and straitened fortune near."]}, {"id": "C8.21.44", "lines": ["Why should I bring war down on Zabul’s plain?", "Why should Iran and Kabul both be slain?"]}, {"id": "C8.21.45", "lines": ["May this be foreign to our custom still;", "Our faith does not permit so great an ill."]}, {"id": "C8.21.46", "lines": ["Why should I send Iranians to fall,", "And crown myself as monarch over all?"]}, {"id": "C8.21.47", "lines": ["I lead against whatever foe draws near,", "Though claws of leopards face me, I stand here."]}, {"id": "C8.21.48", "lines": ["If you need helpers, summon whom you choose;", "I need no helper’s strength for me to use."]}, {"id": "C8.21.49", "lines": ["God helps me in the fight, and fortune’s grace", "Will smile upon my labor in this place."]}, {"id": "C8.21.50", "lines": ["You seek a fight, and I desire it too;", "Without our troops, I shall contend with you."]}, {"id": "C8.21.51", "lines": ["Then we shall see if my steed turns away,", "And riderless returns to stall today,"]}, {"id": "C8.21.52", "lines": ["Or Rostam’s charger, masterless, alone,", "Turns back toward the palace he has known.”"]}, {"id": "C8.21.53", "lines": ["The champions agreed that none should aid", "Either of them, whatever blows were made."]}, {"id": "C8.21.54", "lines": ["They fought at length; their spearpoints would assail", "The jowshans; rivets scattered in a trail."]}, {"id": "C8.21.55", "lines": ["Their spearheads broke beneath the strokes they plied;", "Then each must draw the sharp sword at his side."]}, {"id": "C8.21.56", "lines": ["They raised their sharpened swords and wheeled to fight,", "Both charging, now to left and now to right."]}, {"id": "C8.21.57", "lines": ["Their tempered swords broke under blows they dealt;", "They drew their gorzes, each from his own belt."]}, {"id": "C8.21.58", "lines": ["They rained down gorz-blows in the savage clash,", "Like stones that tumble from a height and crash."]}, {"id": "C8.21.59", "lines": ["Like raging lions, wrathful, both men pressed", "Their blows upon the battered limbs and chest."]}, {"id": "C8.21.60", "lines": ["The heavy gorzes’ hafts broke stroke by stroke;", "Their hands were balked when those stout handles broke."]}, {"id": "C8.21.61", "lines": ["They gripped a leather belt, prepared to strain,", "Their chargers’ breasts uplifted on the plain."]}, {"id": "C8.21.62", "lines": ["One end was in Esfandiyar’s strong hand;", "The other Rostam held to make his stand."]}, {"id": "C8.21.63", "lines": ["Both pulled toward themselves with all their might,", "Two brazen-bodied champions in the fight."]}, {"id": "C8.21.64", "lines": ["Each strained against the other, yet no force", "Could shift one lion seated on his horse."]}, {"id": "C8.21.65", "lines": ["The riders drew apart; their horses’ strain", "Bore witness to the battle and its pain."]}, {"id": "C8.21.66", "lines": ["Their mouths held foam with blood and dust ingrained;", "Their jowshans, bargostvans, in shreds remained."]}, {"id": "C8.22.1", "lines": ["The heroes fought; the struggle held them fast,", "Zal’s son was long delayed as hours passed."]}, {"id": "C8.22.2", "lines": ["Zavareh brought his troops from farther ground,", "Their hearts seared, bent on vengeance, battle-bound."]}, {"id": "C8.22.3", "lines": ["He asked the Iranians, “Where is Rostam? Why", "Sit silent on this day as hours go by?"]}, {"id": "C8.22.4", "lines": ["You came to meet the nahang in the fight,", "And now are caught in Rostam’s grip of might."]}, {"id": "C8.22.5", "lines": ["You shall not bind his hands; this is no day", "To sit upon the field and shun the fray.”"]}, {"id": "C8.22.6", "lines": ["Zavareh cursed; his speech was harsh to hear,", "Unseemly words that struck the listening ear."]}, {"id": "C8.22.7", "lines": ["A famous son of Esfandiyar heard", "Those taunts, and anger rose at every word."]}, {"id": "C8.22.8", "lines": ["His name was Nush Azar, renowned and bright,", "A joyful youth who felled horsemen in fight."]}, {"id": "C8.22.9", "lines": ["He faced the Sagzi in a raging mood,", "And loosed his tongue in words both harsh and rude."]}, {"id": "C8.22.10", "lines": ["He said, “A noble warrior takes his stand", "And slays the wicked at the Shah’s command."]}, {"id": "C8.22.11", "lines": ["Esfandiyar has not commanded us", "To fight with dogs and make a battle thus."]}, {"id": "C8.22.12", "lines": ["Who turns from his command or judgment’s light?", "Who dares to break the pledge he gave outright?"]}, {"id": "C8.22.13", "lines": ["But if you choose to wage an unjust fight,", "And strike the first blow, scorning what is right,"]}, {"id": "C8.22.14", "lines": ["Then you shall see how fighting men engage", "With sword and spear and heavy gorzes’ rage.”"]}, {"id": "C8.22.15", "lines": ["Zavareh cried, “Now strike, and do not spare;", "Set crowns of blood upon each chieftain’s hair.”"]}, {"id": "C8.22.16", "lines": ["Zavareh rode before his troops; a cry", "Of battle rose into the air on high."]}, {"id": "C8.22.17", "lines": ["They slew Iranians, countless, in the fight;", "Nush Azar joined the battle at that sight."]}, {"id": "C8.22.18", "lines": ["He mounted on his noble dun, astride,", "An Indian sword held flashing at his side."]}, {"id": "C8.22.19", "lines": ["A warrior named Alva, proud of heart,", "Felled horsemen, glad to play a warrior’s part."]}, {"id": "C8.22.20", "lines": ["He bore Rostam’s spear; he would not stray", "From close behind him as he went his way."]}, {"id": "C8.22.21", "lines": ["When Nush Azar saw Alva far away,", "He drew his sword out, ready for the fray."]}, {"id": "C8.22.22", "lines": ["He struck his head; his blade came down, well placed,", "And cleft the famous rider to the waist."]}, {"id": "C8.22.23", "lines": ["Zavareh spurred his warhorse toward the slain,", "And cried to Nush Azar across the plain:"]}, {"id": "C8.22.24", "lines": ["“You felled him; now stand firm, and face my might;", "I never counted Alva fit to fight.”"]}, {"id": "C8.22.25", "lines": ["Zavareh drove his spear into his chest;", "His head fell to the earth, his life at rest."]}, {"id": "C8.22.26", "lines": ["When famed Nush Azar on the field lay dead,", "His army’s Fortune faltered, turned, and fled."]}, {"id": "C8.22.27", "lines": ["His brother, Mehr-e-Nush, in anguish cried;", "His heart seethed at the loss of him who died."]}, {"id": "C8.22.28", "lines": ["The swordsman’s heart grew sorrowful; he spurred", "His massive steed, by bitter sorrow stirred."]}, {"id": "C8.22.29", "lines": ["He rode before the lines; in grief’s deep throes,", "The foam of anguish to his lips arose."]}, {"id": "C8.22.30", "lines": ["Then Faramarz came fiercely to the fight,", "An Indian sword in hand, with tusker’s might."]}, {"id": "C8.22.31", "lines": ["With him the noble Mehr-e-Nush engaged;", "On either side the troops cried as they raged."]}, {"id": "C8.22.32", "lines": ["Both noble youths were of a lordly strain,", "A prince and Pahlevan upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C8.22.33", "lines": ["Like raging lions both rushed in to close,", "And with their swords exchanged each other’s blows."]}, {"id": "C8.22.34", "lines": ["Though Mehr-e-Nush fought fiercely in the field,", "He lacked the strength to make the hero yield."]}, {"id": "C8.22.35", "lines": ["He raised his sword to strike the famed man dead,", "And cast into the dust that noble head."]}, {"id": "C8.22.36", "lines": ["But his own steed’s neck took the falling blade;", "Its severed head upon the earth was laid."]}, {"id": "C8.22.37", "lines": ["Then Faramarz slew him, now forced to stand", "On foot; his blood made rubies of the land."]}, {"id": "C8.22.38", "lines": ["When Bahman saw his brother lying slain,", "The earth beneath him red with rose-like stain,"]}, {"id": "C8.22.39", "lines": ["He came to prince Esfandiyar in grief,", "Where battle raged around that mighty chief."]}, {"id": "C8.22.40", "lines": ["He said, “O fierce male lion, see the power", "Of Sagzi troops who fight us in this hour."]}, {"id": "C8.22.41", "lines": ["Both Nush Azar and Mehr-e-Nush lie slain;", "The Sagzi brought them low upon the plain."]}, {"id": "C8.22.42", "lines": ["You fight, while we are grieving; dust is spread", "Upon our youths and princes lying dead."]}, {"id": "C8.22.43", "lines": ["Eternal shame will rest upon our race;", "These fools have dragged our honor to disgrace.”"]}, {"id": "C8.22.44", "lines": ["The chief’s heart filled with anger; in his brain", "Rose rage, while tears flowed for the newly slain."]}, {"id": "C8.22.45", "lines": ["He said, “O wicked Rostam, can this be", "The pact of chiefs, the pledge you made to me?"]}, {"id": "C8.22.46", "lines": ["You said, ‘I will not bring my troops to fight.’", "You have no care for honor in men’s sight."]}, {"id": "C8.22.47", "lines": ["No shame before your God or me you know;", "Fear when He asks what your account will show."]}, {"id": "C8.22.48", "lines": ["Do you not know that men who break their word", "Win no men’s praise when all the tale is heard?"]}, {"id": "C8.22.49", "lines": ["Two Sagzi killed my sons; in folly still", "They persevere and will not turn from ill.”"]}, {"id": "C8.22.50", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, his heart grew sore with grief;", "He trembled like a branch with every leaf."]}, {"id": "C8.22.51", "lines": ["He swore by sun, the Shah’s own life and head,", "By field and scimitar, and sternly said:"]}, {"id": "C8.22.52", "lines": ["“I never bade them fight so; theirs the blame,", "And those who joined won none of my acclaim."]}, {"id": "C8.22.53", "lines": ["My brother’s hands I bind, if he has led", "The men to this foul deed where blood is shed."]}, {"id": "C8.22.54", "lines": ["And Faramarz, his hands bound, I shall bring", "Before you, God-revering prince and king."]}, {"id": "C8.22.55", "lines": ["Slay them for those dear sons and let your mind", "Be free of this vain deed; leave it behind.”"]}, {"id": "C8.22.56", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “It is not right", "To shed snake’s blood for peacocks in my sight."]}, {"id": "C8.22.57", "lines": ["Such vengeance would be ugly in our eyes;", "The custom of proud kings this act denies."]}, {"id": "C8.22.58", "lines": ["You wicked man, take thought for your own fate;", "Your time draws close; prepare, and do not wait."]}, {"id": "C8.22.59", "lines": ["With arrows I shall mix both thighs of yours", "With Rakhsh, as milk with water blends and pours,"]}, {"id": "C8.22.60", "lines": ["So servants, after this, will not oppose", "Their masters, seeking vengeance as their foes."]}, {"id": "C8.22.61", "lines": ["If you survive, I bind your hands today,", "And take you to the Shah without delay."]}, {"id": "C8.22.62", "lines": ["But if my arrows kill you on this ground,", "Revenge for both my noble sons is found.”"]}, {"id": "C8.22.63", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “What profit can we claim", "From all this talk, except a loss of name?"]}, {"id": "C8.22.64", "lines": ["Turn toward God; to Him your heart confide,", "For He alone to goodness is our guide.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.1", "lines": ["They took their bows and arrow shafts in hand,", "And darkness seemed to fall across the land."]}, {"id": "C8.23.2", "lines": ["Their arrowheads struck fire; the shafts they sped", "Stitched armor to the flesh like needle-thread."]}, {"id": "C8.23.3", "lines": ["Esfandiyar grew troubled in the fight;", "His brow and face were furrowed at the sight."]}, {"id": "C8.23.4", "lines": ["When he reached for his arrows and his bow,", "No man escaped the shaft that he let go."]}, {"id": "C8.23.5", "lines": ["The hero drew his mighty bow; the light", "Of the sun grew pale before his fearful might."]}, {"id": "C8.23.6", "lines": ["His arrowhead was adamant; before", "Its point made jowshans paper, nothing more."]}, {"id": "C8.23.7", "lines": ["When shafts flew from Esfandiyar’s strong bow,", "Both Rostam and great Rakhsh received the blow."]}, {"id": "C8.23.8", "lines": ["The prince rode round him; Rostam’s arrows flew,", "But none could pierce that body through and through."]}, {"id": "C8.23.9", "lines": ["Each shaft the prince released left Rostam sore;", "His own shafts failed; he could withstand no more."]}, {"id": "C8.23.10", "lines": ["Bewildered at such fighting, Rostam cried,", "“Esfandiyar has brass for flesh and hide!”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.11", "lines": ["When Rakhsh grew weak, the arrows lodged in him,", "And horse and rider bled from every limb,"]}, {"id": "C8.23.12", "lines": ["The rider, swift as wind, sprang from his steed,", "And turned toward the heights in bitter need."]}, {"id": "C8.23.13", "lines": ["Then wounded Rakhsh went homeward on his own,", "And left his master on the height alone."]}, {"id": "C8.23.14", "lines": ["Blood poured from Rostam’s body like a tide;", "As if Mount Bistoon shook, its strength denied."]}, {"id": "C8.23.15", "lines": ["Esfandiyar laughed loudly at the sight,", "And cried, “Famed Rostam, where has gone your might?"]}, {"id": "C8.23.16", "lines": ["Why has the raging elephant grown weak?", "Why do these arrow-wounds such havoc wreak?"]}, {"id": "C8.23.17", "lines": ["Where now are gorz and manhood, farr and name,", "Your warlike eminence and ancient fame?"]}, {"id": "C8.23.18", "lines": ["Why have you fled away and scaled the height", "Because a lion’s voice has filled the fight?"]}, {"id": "C8.23.19", "lines": ["Why has the elephant turned fox? Your force", "Has failed you now; your hands have stayed their course."]}, {"id": "C8.23.20", "lines": ["You made the Divs weep, and the wild beasts feel", "As though they roasted in your burning steel.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.21", "lines": ["Zavareh saw the glossy Rakhsh return,", "Wounded and riderless, and felt grief burn."]}, {"id": "C8.23.22", "lines": ["The world grew dark before Zavareh’s eyes;", "He hurried toward the field with grieving cries."]}, {"id": "C8.23.23", "lines": ["He saw great Rostam’s wounds, still open wide,", "Unbound, with blood that flowed on every side."]}, {"id": "C8.23.24", "lines": ["“Rise, mount my horse,” he said. “For you I wear", "Revenge’s jowshan; yours shall be my care.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.25", "lines": ["But Rostam answered, “Go to Zal and say:", "‘The glory of Sahm’s race has passed away."]}, {"id": "C8.23.26", "lines": ["Seek out a cure for wounds that grieve me so;", "What remedy is there for all this woe?"]}, {"id": "C8.23.27", "lines": ["If I survive these arrows and this strife,", "Know, Zal, my mother gives me newborn life.’"]}, {"id": "C8.23.28", "lines": ["Go now, and find a cure for Rakhsh, I pray;", "I shall come after, though I long delay.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.29", "lines": ["Zavareh left his brother in despair,", "And turned toward Rakhsh, whose wounds were hard to bear."]}, {"id": "C8.23.30", "lines": ["Esfandiyar remained below the height,", "And called to famed Rostam, still in his sight:"]}, {"id": "C8.23.31", "lines": ["“Famed Rostam, on the height why do you wait?", "Who now will guide your steps and set them straight?"]}, {"id": "C8.23.32", "lines": ["Throw down your bow; cast tiger-skin aside;", "Unfasten now the girdle at your side."]}, {"id": "C8.23.33", "lines": ["Repent, yield both your hands to bondage now;", "No further hurt from me shall touch your brow."]}, {"id": "C8.23.34", "lines": ["Wounded, you shall be brought before the throne,", "And have no guilt laid on you as your own."]}, {"id": "C8.23.35", "lines": ["Before you fight, set your affairs in hand;", "Appoint a guardian to protect this land."]}, {"id": "C8.23.36", "lines": ["Ask God to pardon all your sins; He may", "Forgive them when you turn to Him and pray."]}, {"id": "C8.23.37", "lines": ["Perhaps the righteous Judge will be your guide", "When you depart this world where none abide.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.38", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “The hour is growing late;", "Our hands must cease from battle and from hate."]}, {"id": "C8.23.39", "lines": ["Return now to your troops; the night is near,", "Who seeks a battle when the dark is here?"]}, {"id": "C8.23.40", "lines": ["I shall go home, and in my palace lie,", "To rest awhile and let sleep close my eye."]}, {"id": "C8.23.41", "lines": ["I shall bind up my wounds and summon all", "My people, those I have, to hear my call:"]}, {"id": "C8.23.42", "lines": ["Zavareh, Faramarz, and Zal by name,", "And all my other kin who have won fame."]}, {"id": "C8.23.43", "lines": ["And now I will perform what you require,", "For loyalty to you is my desire.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.44", "lines": ["Esfandiyar, the brazen-bodied, cried,", "“Old self-willed man, so swollen with your pride,"]}, {"id": "C8.23.45", "lines": ["You are a mighty man, in combat tried,", "With spells and schemes and counsel at your side."]}, {"id": "C8.23.46", "lines": ["I marked your falseness through this whole affair,", "And long to see your overthrow laid bare."]}, {"id": "C8.23.47", "lines": ["Yet I will grant you quarter through the night;", "Go home, but do not scheme to shun the fight."]}, {"id": "C8.23.48", "lines": ["Fulfill the words you pledged to me before;", "Spin out no further speeches; speak no more.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.49", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “I shall do as you say,", "And chant to drive my wounds’ distress away.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.50", "lines": ["Then Rostam turned away; the prince’s eye", "Watched how the wounded hero would pass by."]}, {"id": "C8.23.51", "lines": ["Like some great ship, he crossed the river’s tide,", "And prayed that God would heal his wounded side."]}, {"id": "C8.23.52", "lines": ["He said, “O just and holy Judge on high,", "If from these wounds I fall beneath the sky,"]}, {"id": "C8.23.53", "lines": ["Who of the mighty will avenge me, who", "Will take my heart, my judgment, customs too?”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.54", "lines": ["Esfandiyar kept watching as he went,", "And saw him reach the farther bank, near spent."]}, {"id": "C8.23.55", "lines": ["He cried, “This is no man! Before my eyes,", "A mighty elephant of power and size!”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.56", "lines": ["He crossed the water, though his wounds were sore,", "In anguish from the shafts his body bore."]}, {"id": "C8.23.57", "lines": ["In wonder stood the prince; his voice was raised", "To God, the mighty Judge, whom thus he praised:"]}, {"id": "C8.23.58", "lines": ["“You shaped him as You wished, by Your command,", "And graced both earth and time with one so grand.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.59", "lines": ["When he returned, from out the royal tent", "Rose cries of grief and sorrowful lament."]}, {"id": "C8.23.60", "lines": ["Then Bishutan came forth, oppressed by grief,", "For both young princes dead beyond relief."]}, {"id": "C8.23.61", "lines": ["The prince’s tent lay on the dust; the great", "Had torn their garments, mourning that sad fate."]}, {"id": "C8.23.62", "lines": ["He left his steed; within his lap he laid", "The heads of those two chiefs, and mourned, dismayed."]}, {"id": "C8.23.63", "lines": ["He cried, “Alas, my two young warriors slain!", "Your souls no more in these weak forms remain!”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.64", "lines": ["Then he told Bishutan, “Rise; weep no more;", "Let not such tears upon their bodies pour."]}, {"id": "C8.23.65", "lines": ["I see no gain in all these tears and grief;", "We must not cling to life, for life is brief."]}, {"id": "C8.23.66", "lines": ["Both young and old, we all must pass away;", "May wisdom guide us on our final day.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.67", "lines": ["In golden coffins, each on a teak bier,", "He sent them to the crowned Shah, far from here."]}, {"id": "C8.23.68", "lines": ["He sent his father word: “Your counsel’s tree", "Has borne its fruit; behold what comes to me."]}, {"id": "C8.23.69", "lines": ["You launched the ship; you sought for your command", "Great Rostam’s service, subject to your hand."]}, {"id": "C8.23.70", "lines": ["When Nush Azar and Mehr-e-Nush appear", "In coffins, do not lend Jamasp your ear."]}, {"id": "C8.23.71", "lines": ["My bull is in its hide; none yet can say", "What fate may bring to me upon my way."]}, {"id": "C8.23.72", "lines": ["You glory on your throne while I must burn;", "That throne and ease will end when fortunes turn.”"]}, {"id": "C8.23.73", "lines": ["He sat upon his throne beneath grief’s shade,", "And weighed the words and warnings Rostam made."]}, {"id": "C8.23.74", "lines": ["Then he told Bishutan, “A lion draws", "Away before a valiant warrior’s claws."]}, {"id": "C8.23.75", "lines": ["Today I looked on Rostam’s mighty frame,", "His strength and stature, worthy of his fame."]}, {"id": "C8.23.76", "lines": ["I praised the holy God, whom we revere,", "From whom come hope and dread and trembling fear."]}, {"id": "C8.23.77", "lines": ["His Maker shaped him so; all praise is due", "To Him who made the world and all we view."]}, {"id": "C8.23.78", "lines": ["His deeds were such: where Chin’s deep waters sweep,", "His thumb could draw the nahang from the deep."]}, {"id": "C8.23.79", "lines": ["His breath drew leopards from the open land;", "Such were the mighty workings of his hand."]}, {"id": "C8.23.80", "lines": ["Yet I so pierced his body with my bow", "That pools of blood lay on the earth below."]}, {"id": "C8.23.81", "lines": ["He left the height on foot, as he had said,", "With jowshan, sword, and to the stream he sped."]}, {"id": "C8.23.82", "lines": ["He came out of the water, wounded sore,", "His body full of arrowheads he bore."]}, {"id": "C8.23.83", "lines": ["I think that, when his palace meets his eye,", "His soul will rise to Saturn in the sky.”"]}, {"id": "C8.24.1", "lines": ["Now Rostam reached his palace; Zal perceived", "The wounds his son in battle had received."]}, {"id": "C8.24.2", "lines": ["Zavareh wept with Faramarz in grief;", "His wounds burned in their hearts beyond relief."]}, {"id": "C8.24.3", "lines": ["When Rudabeh had heard the household cries,", "She tore her face and hair with anguished sighs."]}, {"id": "C8.24.4", "lines": ["Zavareh came and loosed his belt; the rest", "Removed the Babr-e Bayan from his breast."]}, {"id": "C8.24.5", "lines": ["The learned of his country also came,", "And sat around the hero’s wounded frame."]}, {"id": "C8.24.6", "lines": ["Then Rakhsh was ordered brought; the healers, too,", "Were brought to see what remedies could do."]}, {"id": "C8.24.7", "lines": ["Wise Zal tore at his hair and bowed his head,", "And pressed his face to Rostam’s wounds and said:"]}, {"id": "C8.24.8", "lines": ["“Still living, old and gray, I see my son;", "I never saw him thus, my cherished one!”"]}, {"id": "C8.24.9", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “What use are grief and cries?", "What has occurred was written in the skies."]}, {"id": "C8.24.10", "lines": ["The matter facing me is harder still,", "And deeper cares my troubled spirit fill."]}, {"id": "C8.24.11", "lines": ["However much I plead, my words impart", "No softness to the prince’s stony heart."]}, {"id": "C8.24.12", "lines": ["His arrogance commands his word and deed;", "In every way he seeks distress to breed."]}, {"id": "C8.24.13", "lines": ["I roamed the world and learned its hidden lore,", "And learned what lay revealed, from shore to shore."]}, {"id": "C8.24.14", "lines": ["I seized the White Div’s waist and hurled him low,", "As lightly as a willow branch men throw."]}, {"id": "C8.24.15", "lines": ["Yet from Esfandiyar I turn away", "Before his strength and prowess in the fray."]}, {"id": "C8.24.16", "lines": ["My flying shafts would pierce an anvil’s face,", "And scorn the strongest shield in any place."]}, {"id": "C8.24.17", "lines": ["Yet when they struck his armor in the fight,", "They proved like thorns on stone despite their might."]}, {"id": "C8.24.18", "lines": ["If I reached out, a stone within my grasp", "Was like a citron resting in my clasp."]}, {"id": "C8.24.19", "lines": ["I seized Esfandiyar’s belt; my strong hand", "Was humbled, with the strength at its command."]}, {"id": "C8.24.20", "lines": ["If any nahang saw my blade displayed,", "It hid beneath the rocks in fear and shade."]}, {"id": "C8.24.21", "lines": ["Yet that same sword could neither cut nor shred", "His jowshan, nor the silk upon his head."]}, {"id": "C8.24.22", "lines": ["Thank God that night spread darkness through the skies,", "And in that darkness dimmed the prince’s eyes."]}, {"id": "C8.24.23", "lines": ["I slipped that dragon’s grip but cannot see", "If from this plight I ever shall be free."]}, {"id": "C8.24.24", "lines": ["No other course remains for me to try:", "Tomorrow I shall mount my Rakhsh and fly."]}, {"id": "C8.24.25", "lines": ["I leave no trace to show him where I fled,", "Though severed heads through Zabul he may spread."]}, {"id": "C8.24.26", "lines": ["At last, he will grow tired of evil done,", "Though slow to tire of it, that wicked one.”"]}, {"id": "C8.24.27", "lines": ["Then Zal replied, “My son, give heed and hear;", "Remember what I say, and lend your ear."]}, {"id": "C8.24.28", "lines": ["Each worldly task has doors through which to tread;", "Death has another door that lies ahead."]}, {"id": "C8.24.29", "lines": ["I know one remedy; let this be tried:", "I shall summon the Simorgh as our guide."]}, {"id": "C8.24.30", "lines": ["If she will guide us now, our lands shall stand;", "Else ruin comes from that foul prince’s hand.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.1", "lines": ["When all three fixed upon that bold design,", "Zal climbed a height beneath the starlight’s shine."]}, {"id": "C8.25.2", "lines": ["Three censers full of fire he bore that night;", "Three watchful, valiant men climbed to the height."]}, {"id": "C8.25.3", "lines": ["Upon the summit, spell-wise Zal now stayed,", "And drew the feather from its rich brocade."]}, {"id": "C8.25.4", "lines": ["He lit a censer’s fire amid the gloom,", "And burned a portion of the Simorgh’s plume."]}, {"id": "C8.25.5", "lines": ["A watch of that dark night had passed; on high", "A cloud as black as iron filled the sky."]}, {"id": "C8.25.6", "lines": ["The bird looked down from heaven toward the height,", "And saw the fire below her burning bright."]}, {"id": "C8.25.7", "lines": ["Zal sat before it, sunk in grief and woe;", "The troubled bird came down to earth below."]}, {"id": "C8.25.8", "lines": ["Zal came before her, aloeswood to bear,", "And offered praise and bowed his head in prayer."]}, {"id": "C8.25.9", "lines": ["He filled three censers with their fragrant store;", "Down both his cheeks his liver’s blood would pour."]}, {"id": "C8.25.10", "lines": ["The Simorgh said, “O king, what grief or fear", "Has made you burn my plume to call me here?”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.11", "lines": ["Zal said, “May this affliction fall instead", "Upon the ill-born foeman’s guilty head."]}, {"id": "C8.25.12", "lines": ["The body of lion-hearted Rostam lies", "With wounds that fill my heart with anguished cries."]}, {"id": "C8.25.13", "lines": ["His wounds have brought him close to loss of life;", "No man has seen such ruin born of strife."]}, {"id": "C8.25.14", "lines": ["And Rakhsh, it seems, is near to dying too,", "So sharply have the arrows pierced him through."]}, {"id": "C8.25.15", "lines": ["Esfandiyar has come to fight us here;", "He seeks but war and makes his purpose clear."]}, {"id": "C8.25.16", "lines": ["He seeks no land or treasure, nor a crown;", "He wants the tree, its root and fruit, cut down.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.17", "lines": ["The Simorgh said, “O Pahlevan, take heart;", "Let grief and fear from your worn soul depart."]}, {"id": "C8.25.18", "lines": ["Now let me see both Rakhsh and Rostam here,", "That proud world-giving chief, whom men revere.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.19", "lines": ["Then Zal sent word to Rostam where he lay:", "“Bestir yourself and come without delay."]}, {"id": "C8.25.20", "lines": ["Give orders too that Rakhsh be brought along,", "And bring him straight to me; do not be long.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.21", "lines": ["When Rostam reached that steep and lofty place,", "The knowing bird looked on the hero’s face:"]}, {"id": "C8.25.22", "lines": ["“O mighty elephant, whose hand could deal", "Such grievous wounds as those you now reveal?"]}, {"id": "C8.25.23", "lines": ["Why did you seek Esfandiyar in fight?", "Why set your lap with battle’s fire alight?”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.24", "lines": ["Then Zal replied, “O queen of love and grace,", "Since you have shown to us your holy face,"]}, {"id": "C8.25.25", "lines": ["Where shall I take my refuge if my son", "Should find no cure? Of hope there will be none."]}, {"id": "C8.25.26", "lines": ["They will destroy Sistan and strip it bare", "For lions’ dens and for the leopard’s lair."]}, {"id": "C8.25.27", "lines": ["Our race will be uprooted from the land;", "What remedy remains at our command?”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.28", "lines": ["The bird surveyed his wounds with knowing eye,", "And saw where all the means to heal might lie."]}, {"id": "C8.25.29", "lines": ["Four arrowheads she drew; her beak applied", "To wounded flesh drew out the blood inside."]}, {"id": "C8.25.30", "lines": ["She rubbed her feather on each wound he bore;", "Great Rostam’s strength and farr she did restore."]}, {"id": "C8.25.31", "lines": ["She said, “Bind up your wounds and rest one week;", "Avoid all danger; safety you must seek."]}, {"id": "C8.25.32", "lines": ["With milk, wet one of my own feathers through;", "Then stroke the wounds the arrows dealt to you.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.33", "lines": ["She called for Rakhsh, then pressed her beak to aid", "His right foreleg, where arrow-wounds were made."]}, {"id": "C8.25.34", "lines": ["Six arrowheads she drew; his neck was freed,", "And no wound marred the body of the steed."]}, {"id": "C8.25.35", "lines": ["Then Rakhsh neighed out, and Rostam laughed for joy;", "No grief remained their gladness to destroy."]}, {"id": "C8.25.36", "lines": ["The Simorgh said, “O elephant in might,", "Most famed of all the warriors who fight,"]}, {"id": "C8.25.37", "lines": ["Why seek to fight Esfandiyar, whose frame", "Is brass, a prince whose wars have won him fame?”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.38", "lines": ["He answered, “Had he not proposed my chains,", "My heart would not be troubled by these pains."]}, {"id": "C8.25.39", "lines": ["For death is easier than shame to bear,", "Should I hold back from fighting and not dare.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.40", "lines": ["She said, “To bow your head before his might,", "Down to the dust, brings no disgrace or slight."]}, {"id": "C8.25.41", "lines": ["He is a warrior-prince, both pure and bright;", "He bears God’s farr, the grace of sacred light."]}, {"id": "C8.25.42", "lines": ["If you will make a covenant with me,", "Repent this fight and let your anger flee,"]}, {"id": "C8.25.43", "lines": ["Seek not to prove your strength exceeds his might", "When you contend with him in open fight."]}, {"id": "C8.25.44", "lines": ["Tomorrow, plead with him, and let him take", "Your flesh and soul, offered for his own sake."]}, {"id": "C8.25.45", "lines": ["Then if his time is moving toward its end,", "He will reject the pleas that you extend."]}, {"id": "C8.25.46", "lines": ["Then I shall find the means, and, this once done,", "Shall raise your head as high as heaven’s sun.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.47", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, his heart was filled with cheer;", "The thought of being bound brought no more fear."]}, {"id": "C8.25.48", "lines": ["He said, “I shall obey what you have said,", "Though swords rain from the sky upon my head.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.49", "lines": ["The Simorgh said, “In love I now reveal", "The hidden doom that heaven’s signs conceal."]}, {"id": "C8.25.50", "lines": ["Whoever sheds that hero’s sacred blood", "Will meet dark fortune rising like a flood."]}, {"id": "C8.25.51", "lines": ["Throughout his life, he shall not find relief", "From pain; his treasure, too, shall come to grief."]}, {"id": "C8.25.52", "lines": ["Ill fortune in this world will bring him pain;", "Beyond this life, more hardships shall remain."]}, {"id": "C8.25.53", "lines": ["If you agree with all that I have told,", "Against your enemy you shall be bold."]}, {"id": "C8.25.54", "lines": ["This very night a wonder I shall show,", "And stop the evil words your lips let flow."]}, {"id": "C8.25.55", "lines": ["Go mount on Rakhsh; a khanjar you must choose,", "Whose steel is bright with gleaming water’s hues.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.56", "lines": ["He fastened tight the belt around his waist,", "Then mounted Rakhsh, and toward the sea he raced."]}, {"id": "C8.25.57", "lines": ["He reached the sea; above him, all grew dim", "Beneath the Simorgh flying over him."]}, {"id": "C8.25.58", "lines": ["When Rostam came beside the water’s face,", "The noble bird descended to that place."]}, {"id": "C8.25.59", "lines": ["A tamarisk stood rooted, rising high;", "The royal bird perched there against the sky."]}, {"id": "C8.25.60", "lines": ["She showed a dry path; musky fragrance stirred", "Upon the wind that blew about the bird."]}, {"id": "C8.25.61", "lines": ["She called him close and gently stroked his head;", "And then the knowing Simorgh spoke and said:"]}, {"id": "C8.25.62", "lines": ["“Choose out the straightest slender branch on high,", "Its tip raised up toward the open sky."]}, {"id": "C8.25.63", "lines": ["This tamarisk is Esfandiyar’s doom;", "Do not mistake it for mere wood or bloom."]}, {"id": "C8.25.64", "lines": ["Before the fire, make straight this shaft you hold;", "Choose one fine arrowhead, well made and old."]}, {"id": "C8.25.65", "lines": ["Set the feather and arrowhead in place;", "I have revealed the harm that he must face.”"]}, {"id": "C8.25.66", "lines": ["When Rostam cut the branch, he left the shore,", "And rode toward his halls; the branch he bore."]}, {"id": "C8.25.67", "lines": ["The Simorgh still above his head remained,", "And guided him until his house was gained."]}, {"id": "C8.25.68", "lines": ["She said, “When prince Esfandiyar seeks fight,", "Plead kindly, speak the truth, do what is right."]}, {"id": "C8.25.69", "lines": ["Sweet words may turn him back, and call to mind", "The days of old that he has left behind:"]}, {"id": "C8.25.70", "lines": ["How long, in service to the great, you bore", "Hard toil and pain throughout the years before."]}, {"id": "C8.25.71", "lines": ["If he rejects your pleas with scornful face,", "And counts you with the low-born and the base,"]}, {"id": "C8.25.72", "lines": ["Then string your bow, and nock that arrow rare,", "The tamarisk that wine has helped prepare."]}, {"id": "C8.25.73", "lines": ["Aim both your hands, as gaz-parast men do,", "Straight at his eye, and keep that eye in view."]}, {"id": "C8.25.74", "lines": ["Then Destiny will guide the shaft in flight", "Straight to his eye, and there its point will bite.”"]}, {"id": "C8.26.1", "lines": ["The Simorgh bade farewell to Zal, allied", "As weft to warp, bound closely side by side."]}, {"id": "C8.26.2", "lines": ["She rose with happy heart, her pinions spread;", "And Rostam watched her soaring overhead."]}, {"id": "C8.26.3", "lines": ["He kindled fire, the arrow to prepare,", "And steeped the wood in wine with patient care."]}, {"id": "C8.26.4", "lines": ["One sharpened arrowhead he fitted tight,", "Then feathered the straight shaft and set it right."]}, {"id": "C8.26.5", "lines": ["When dawn broke from the heights and night withdrew,", "Across the dark its early brightness grew."]}, {"id": "C8.26.6", "lines": ["He donned the arms of battle he would bear;", "He called upon the Maker in his prayer,"]}, {"id": "C8.26.7", "lines": ["Then rode toward Esfandiyar’s camp to fight,", "And cried for vengeance with a warrior’s might:"]}, {"id": "C8.26.8", "lines": ["“O battle-seeker, why still sleep so sound?", "For Rostam’s Rakhsh stands saddled on this ground."]}, {"id": "C8.26.9", "lines": ["Awake, and close with Rostam, spear to spear;", "Rise from sweet sleep; revenge has brought him near.”"]}, {"id": "C8.26.10", "lines": ["When prince Esfandiyar had heard the cry,", "His heavy arms seemed worthless in his eye."]}, {"id": "C8.26.11", "lines": ["He said to Bishutan, “No lion’s might", "Can stand against a sorcerer in fight."]}, {"id": "C8.26.12", "lines": ["I thought that Rostam could reach home no more", "With jowshan, helm, Babr-e Bayan he wore."]}, {"id": "C8.26.13", "lines": ["His Rakhsh bore shafts so thick across his chest", "That none could see the charger’s wounded breast."]}, {"id": "C8.26.14", "lines": ["Now I have heard that Zal can reach the sun", "Through magic, when some work has to be done."]}, {"id": "C8.26.15", "lines": ["In wrath he leaves all sorcerers behind;", "I failed to weigh this with a prudent mind.”"]}, {"id": "C8.26.16", "lines": ["Bishutan answered, weeping in his woe:", "“May grief and anger fall upon your foe."]}, {"id": "C8.26.17", "lines": ["What has come over you, so pale today?", "You must have watched until sleep fled away."]}, {"id": "C8.26.18", "lines": ["What ails these two great heroes? Why should grief", "Increase, with so much toil and no relief?"]}, {"id": "C8.26.19", "lines": ["I know not whose good fortune falters so,", "To bring fresh vengeance and renew our woe.”"]}, {"id": "C8.26.20", "lines": ["Esfandiyar put on his battle gear,", "And donned his jowshan, combat drawing near."]}, {"id": "C8.26.21", "lines": ["He saw him, roared, and called a curse of shame:", "“May all the world forget your very name!"]}, {"id": "C8.26.22", "lines": ["Have you forgotten, Sagzi, how I wage", "My wars, my bow, a hero’s warlike rage?"]}, {"id": "C8.26.23", "lines": ["Zal’s sorcery has made your body sound;", "Else you would lie already underground."]}, {"id": "C8.26.24", "lines": ["You turned again to sorcery’s old lore,", "And hastened back to fight me as before."]}, {"id": "C8.26.25", "lines": ["Today I crush your neck, and you shall be", "No living son for Zal to ever see.”"]}, {"id": "C8.26.26", "lines": ["When Rostam saw him thus, he breathed a sigh,", "Cold from his liver, then made this reply:"]}, {"id": "C8.26.27", "lines": ["“O prince Esfandiyar,” he said, “you still", "Seek war, and yet have never had your fill."]}, {"id": "C8.26.28", "lines": ["Fear God, the pure; do not consign your wit", "And heart to lie together in the pit."]}, {"id": "C8.26.29", "lines": ["I did not come for battle; here I frame", "My plea, concerned for honor, name, and shame."]}, {"id": "C8.26.30", "lines": ["Your fight with me flouts what is just and wise;", "You draw a veil across both reason’s eyes."]}, {"id": "C8.26.31", "lines": ["By Zardosht’s Maker and the noble creed,", "By Nush Azar and farr, give earnest heed;"]}, {"id": "C8.26.32", "lines": ["By sun and moon, by Zand-Avesta’s light,", "Turn from this evil and embrace the right."]}, {"id": "C8.26.33", "lines": ["Forget the bitter words exchanged before,", "Though they could split the skin and leave it sore."]}, {"id": "C8.26.34", "lines": ["Come then and see the dwelling where I stay;", "Your will shall rule my life, and I obey."]}, {"id": "C8.26.35", "lines": ["I shall unlock my ancient hoards for you,", "The wealth I gathered as the long years flew."]}, {"id": "C8.26.36", "lines": ["I shall load beasts; your treasurer shall go", "Ahead with all the wealth that I bestow."]}, {"id": "C8.26.37", "lines": ["I also shall ride onward at your side,", "And do before the Shah as you decide."]}, {"id": "C8.26.38", "lines": ["If there he slays me, I shall be content;", "If he commands my bonds, I will consent."]}, {"id": "C8.26.39", "lines": ["Recall the ancient sage and comprehend:", "‘May no ill star become your lifelong friend.’"]}, {"id": "C8.26.40", "lines": ["I shall try every means, still trusting fate", "May make you weary of this war and hate.”"]}, {"id": "C8.26.41", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “I am not one", "To be deceived when battle has begun."]}, {"id": "C8.26.42", "lines": ["Why speak of house and hall? You do not cease", "To wash anew the very face of peace."]}, {"id": "C8.26.43", "lines": ["If you still seek to live, then first be chained;", "By bonds alone may further life be gained.”"]}, {"id": "C8.26.44", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered him again and said,", "“O prince, renounce the wrongful path you tread."]}, {"id": "C8.26.45", "lines": ["Do not disgrace my name or bring me low;", "From such a war, no good can ever grow."]}, {"id": "C8.26.46", "lines": ["You shall have royal gems in thousands, rare,", "With armlets, necklaces, and earrings fair."]}, {"id": "C8.26.47", "lines": ["Thousands of honey-lipped young pages, bright,", "Shall serve your throne and never leave your sight."]}, {"id": "C8.26.48", "lines": ["A thousand Khallokh maidens I shall bring,", "Fit for the crown and fortune of a king."]}, {"id": "C8.26.49", "lines": ["O peerless prince, I shall lay bare before", "Your eyes Sahm-e Nariman’s and Zal’s store."]}, {"id": "C8.26.50", "lines": ["I shall set all before you and shall lead", "Men from Zabulistan to serve your need."]}, {"id": "C8.26.51", "lines": ["They all shall follow every word you say,", "And break your enemies in open fray."]}, {"id": "C8.26.52", "lines": ["As your attendant, I shall take the way", "Before the vengeful Shah, and there obey."]}, {"id": "C8.26.53", "lines": ["But, prince, put vengeance from your heart away;", "Do not let the Div beside your reason stay."]}, {"id": "C8.26.54", "lines": ["You worship God; you rule and can command", "More than these bonds; my fate is in your hand."]}, {"id": "C8.26.55", "lines": ["These bonds would leave me lasting shame to bear;", "The evil of the act would be your share.”"]}, {"id": "C8.26.56", "lines": ["Esfandiyar replied, “How long will all", "These worthless words upon my hearing fall?"]}, {"id": "C8.26.57", "lines": ["You bid me turn from God’s appointed way,", "And from the Shah whose orders I obey."]}, {"id": "C8.26.58", "lines": ["Whoever leaves the Shah’s commands behind", "Has worked deceit upon his master’s mind."]}, {"id": "C8.26.59", "lines": ["Choose bonds or battle; nothing else will do.", "Let no more idle words be heard from you.”"]}, {"id": "C8.27.1", "lines": ["When Rostam knew his pleas could not prevail,", "And all entreaties to the prince would fail,"]}, {"id": "C8.27.2", "lines": ["He strung his bow and set the shaft in line;", "Its head had been made ready with the wine."]}, {"id": "C8.27.3", "lines": ["He set the tamarisk upon the string,", "And prayed in secret to creation’s King:"]}, {"id": "C8.27.4", "lines": ["“O pure Creator of the shining sun,", "Through you are wisdom, strength, and glory won."]}, {"id": "C8.27.5", "lines": ["You see my life, my soul, and all my might;", "You see my spirit, pure before your sight."]}, {"id": "C8.27.6", "lines": ["I strove to turn Esfandiyar away,", "To make him turn his head from this affray."]}, {"id": "C8.27.7", "lines": ["You know his quarrel with me is unjust;", "He boasts of war, and in his strength puts trust."]}, {"id": "C8.27.8", "lines": ["Creator of the moon and Tir, I pray:", "Do not make me for this transgression pay.”"]}, {"id": "C8.27.9", "lines": ["Esfandiyar perceived his long delay,", "And saw that Rostam kept the fight at bay."]}, {"id": "C8.27.10", "lines": ["He said, “Ill-thinking Sagzi, has your fight", "Not sated you with shaft and bowstring’s might?"]}, {"id": "C8.27.11", "lines": ["Now Goshtasb’s arrow you shall come to know,", "And Lohrasp’s point; a lion’s heart I show.”"]}, {"id": "C8.27.12", "lines": ["Then Rostam quickly fitted to his bow", "The shaft, as Simorgh taught, to strike his foe."]}, {"id": "C8.27.13", "lines": ["The arrow struck his eye and quenched the light;", "Before the prince, the whole world turned to night."]}, {"id": "C8.27.14", "lines": ["His cypress stature bent; his wisdom fled,", "And all his glory vanished as he bled."]}, {"id": "C8.27.15", "lines": ["The pious prince’s head bowed toward the land;", "His bow of Chakh fell slackly from his hand."]}, {"id": "C8.27.16", "lines": ["He clutched the black steed’s forelock and its mane;", "His blood turned ruby-red the dusty plain."]}, {"id": "C8.27.17", "lines": ["Said Rostam, “You have brought this evil seed", "To fruit through stubborn pride in word and deed."]}, {"id": "C8.27.18", "lines": ["You said, ‘My form is brass; my might and worth", "Can dash the vault of heaven to the earth.’"]}, {"id": "C8.27.19", "lines": ["One shaft has turned you from the battle’s course;", "You lie asleep upon your noble horse."]}, {"id": "C8.27.20", "lines": ["Your head will soon be leveled with the ground,", "Your mother’s heart will burn with grief profound.”"]}, {"id": "C8.27.21", "lines": ["The famous prince fell headlong from his steed,", "And lay awhile in blood and bitter need."]}, {"id": "C8.27.22", "lines": ["Then consciousness returned; he sat upright,", "And listened, though his eyes were robbed of sight."]}, {"id": "C8.27.23", "lines": ["He seized the arrow’s end and drew it out,", "While blood from point to feather flowed about."]}, {"id": "C8.27.24", "lines": ["Then Bahman heard the news of that dismay:", "The royal farr had darkened in the fray."]}, {"id": "C8.27.25", "lines": ["It was to Bishutan that Bahman sped:", "“Our battle now to bitter pain is wed."]}, {"id": "C8.27.26", "lines": ["The mighty elephant is on the ground;", "Dark night has closed on all the world around.”"]}, {"id": "C8.27.27", "lines": ["On foot they hurried from the troops in grief,", "And ran together to the wounded chief."]}, {"id": "C8.27.28", "lines": ["They saw the warrior’s chest all stained with gore;", "His hand the bloodied shaft that struck him bore."]}, {"id": "C8.27.29", "lines": ["Then Bishutan cast dust upon his head,", "And tore his robe, with cries for one near dead."]}, {"id": "C8.27.30", "lines": ["Bahman rolled in the dust; his face he laid", "In warm blood, weeping as the farr would fade."]}, {"id": "C8.27.31", "lines": ["Then Bishutan said, “What great man can find", "The world’s deep secret, what religious mind?"]}, {"id": "C8.27.32", "lines": ["For Faith he drew the scimitar of wrath,", "With valor as he trod the vengeful path."]}, {"id": "C8.27.33", "lines": ["He swept idolatry from every land,", "And never raised a tyrant’s heavy hand."]}, {"id": "C8.27.34", "lines": ["Yet in his youth destruction struck him down;", "Dust took the head that used to wear the crown."]}, {"id": "C8.27.35", "lines": ["The wicked man who makes the whole world ache,", "And causes noble souls to grieve and break,"]}, {"id": "C8.27.36", "lines": ["Lives long, while year on year he passes through,", "And never knows the harm that battles do.”"]}, {"id": "C8.27.37", "lines": ["The two youths cradled him with grieving care,", "And wiped the blood that stained his face and hair."]}, {"id": "C8.27.38", "lines": ["His face was stained with blood, his heart was torn,", "As Bishutan lamented, left to mourn:"]}, {"id": "C8.27.39", "lines": ["“Alas, O warrior Esfandiyar,", "Great prince, from kings descended like a star!"]}, {"id": "C8.27.40", "lines": ["Who tore this mountain-warrior from his place?", "Who overthrew this lion in disgrace?"]}, {"id": "C8.27.41", "lines": ["Who tore the noble elephant’s tusks free?", "Who filled with waves the Nile’s wide-spreading sea?"]}, {"id": "C8.27.42", "lines": ["What evil eye has struck our royal line?", "Yet evil falls on those of ill design."]}, {"id": "C8.27.43", "lines": ["Where are your heart, your wisdom, faith, and star,", "Your strength, your ways, your fame that spread so far?"]}, {"id": "C8.27.44", "lines": ["Where is your gracious voice in festive hall,", "Your battle arms that answered every call?"]}, {"id": "C8.27.45", "lines": ["You purged the world of foes; no dread was near,", "No lion, nor an elephant, brought fear."]}, {"id": "C8.27.46", "lines": ["And now the profit of your toil is found:", "Time sees you lying here upon the ground.”"]}, {"id": "C8.27.47", "lines": ["Esfandiyar, in wisdom, made reply:", "“O man well versed in all that passes by,"]}, {"id": "C8.27.48", "lines": ["Do not destroy yourself before me so;", "The moon and heavens dealt this share of woe."]}, {"id": "C8.27.49", "lines": ["The living body has the dust for bed;", "Do not lament because my blood is shed."]}, {"id": "C8.27.50", "lines": ["Where now are Hushang, Jamshid, Fereydoon?", "They came as wind, a breath gone all too soon."]}, {"id": "C8.27.51", "lines": ["Our pure, exalted fathers left their place", "To us; none stays within this passing space."]}, {"id": "C8.27.52", "lines": ["My labors in this world were manifold,", "Both those made plain and those no eyes behold,"]}, {"id": "C8.27.53", "lines": ["To carry out the will of God on high,", "With reason as the guide I journeyed by."]}, {"id": "C8.27.54", "lines": ["Through me this word shone bright across the land;", "From evil deeds was bound Ahriman’s hand."]}, {"id": "C8.27.55", "lines": ["Then Time stretched out its sharp claws; I could see", "No way to flee the fate that fell on me."]}, {"id": "C8.27.56", "lines": ["I hope my heart and soul may reap the grain", "They sowed, in Paradise, beyond this pain."]}, {"id": "C8.27.57", "lines": ["The son of Zal has slain me not by might;", "See in my fist the wood that quenched my light."]}, {"id": "C8.27.58", "lines": ["This wood has brought my days to their last hour,", "Through Simorgh’s aid and Rostam’s cunning power."]}, {"id": "C8.27.59", "lines": ["Zal made the spells and bonds that served this plot;", "He knew the world’s deceits, each binding knot.”"]}, {"id": "C8.27.60", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, he writhed and wept in pain,", "And grief shook him; his tears fell on the plain."]}, {"id": "C8.27.61", "lines": ["He said, “Through that discordant Div, my share", "From Time has come as suffering to bear."]}, {"id": "C8.27.62", "lines": ["All that he said is true; his valor’s root", "Was never crooked, nor was false its fruit."]}, {"id": "C8.27.63", "lines": ["Since first I bound my belt to face the fight,", "I sought proud warriors, testing all their might."]}, {"id": "C8.27.64", "lines": ["No rider like Esfandiyar I found,", "In jowshan, armor, all the world around."]}, {"id": "C8.27.65", "lines": ["In helplessness I turned to seek redress,", "And gave myself up wholly in distress."]}, {"id": "C8.27.66", "lines": ["I turned away, no strength to match his own,", "His bow, his chest, his thumb to me made known."]}, {"id": "C8.27.67", "lines": ["I fitted fate itself upon my bow,", "And loosed the shaft that laid the warrior low."]}, {"id": "C8.27.68", "lines": ["Had further days remained for him to see,", "How could the tamarisk have worked for me?"]}, {"id": "C8.27.69", "lines": ["We all must leave this dark earth; none can stay,", "Nor caution gain one breath against decay."]}, {"id": "C8.27.70", "lines": ["The wood was but the pretext; mine the name", "Within this darkened tale of death and shame.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.1", "lines": ["Then Esfandiyar spoke to Rostam so:", "“My time has ended; now my life must go."]}, {"id": "C8.28.2", "lines": ["Hold back no longer; rise and come this way,", "For now my counsel changes with the day."]}, {"id": "C8.28.3", "lines": ["Hear now the counsel that I have to give,", "And know my worth while I have breath to live."]}, {"id": "C8.28.4", "lines": ["Strive to fulfill the charge I now confide,", "And let your greatness serve you as a guide.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.5", "lines": ["Then matchless Rostam heard the prince’s word,", "On foot drew near; his cries of grief were heard."]}, {"id": "C8.28.6", "lines": ["His eyes poured blood, his heart was filled with shame;", "He mourned in gentle tones the prince’s name."]}, {"id": "C8.28.7", "lines": ["When Zal received the tidings of the fight,", "He left his palace with the wind’s own flight."]}, {"id": "C8.28.8", "lines": ["Zavareh, Faramarz, and chiefs rode hard,", "Like men gone mad, by grief and sorrow marred."]}, {"id": "C8.28.9", "lines": ["A wail rose upward from the battle’s ground,", "And sun and moon seemed darkened by the sound."]}, {"id": "C8.28.10", "lines": ["Then Zal said, “Son, for you I grieve the more;", "My aching heart is wounded to its core."]}, {"id": "C8.28.11", "lines": ["I heard a sage of Chin proclaim this fate,", "And Iran’s star-readers the same relate:"]}, {"id": "C8.28.12", "lines": ["‘Whoever sheds the blood of that great chief", "Will find his days cut short in bitter grief."]}, {"id": "C8.28.13", "lines": ["In this world, pain and hardship he shall know;", "Beyond it, ill fortune shall be his woe.’”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.14", "lines": ["Esfandiyar then said, “O Rostam, hear:", "Your hand has brought no evil to me here."]}, {"id": "C8.28.15", "lines": ["Such was the time; what happened now is past.", "Hear all my words and hold their meaning fast."]}, {"id": "C8.28.16", "lines": ["You were the pretext; father was my fate,", "Not Rostam, Simorgh, shaft, or bow of hate."]}, {"id": "C8.28.17", "lines": ["He told me, ‘Go, burn Sistan to the ground;", "Let Nimruz nevermore on earth be found.’"]}, {"id": "C8.28.18", "lines": ["He strove to keep the troops and crown and store,", "While I was left to suffer more and more."]}, {"id": "C8.28.19", "lines": ["Now Bahman, this renowned young son of mine,", "My watchful counselor of wise design,"]}, {"id": "C8.28.20", "lines": ["Receive from me as though you were his sire;", "Remember all the things that I require."]}, {"id": "C8.28.21", "lines": ["Keep him in Zabul, glad in heart and mind;", "Recall the deeds of men of evil kind."]}, {"id": "C8.28.22", "lines": ["Teach him the ordering of war’s array,", "The feast’s due seating, and the hunter’s way."]}, {"id": "C8.28.23", "lines": ["Teach wine and music, polo, work, and mirth,", "And greatness, and enjoyment of this earth."]}, {"id": "C8.28.24", "lines": ["Jamasp—may all his name be lost to view,", "And may his wishes never once come true;"]}, {"id": "C8.28.25", "lines": ["Foretold that Bahman would preserve my name,", "A king more high and glorious in his fame.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.26", "lines": ["When matchless Rostam heard, he stood upright,", "His right hand on his breast, his pledge forthright."]}, {"id": "C8.28.27", "lines": ["He said, “Though you depart, my word shall stand;", "I shall fulfill each part of your command."]}, {"id": "C8.28.28", "lines": ["Upon the ivory throne he shall be crowned,", "A lovely circlet on his forehead bound.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.29", "lines": ["The prince then heard the pledge that Rostam told,", "And said, “Take up the new; this has grown old."]}, {"id": "C8.28.30", "lines": ["God is my witness; let His witness stand,", "My guide within the Faith, by His command:"]}, {"id": "C8.28.31", "lines": ["For all your kindness and your deeds of worth,", "The kings you nurtured here upon the earth,"]}, {"id": "C8.28.32", "lines": ["Your noble name has turned to ill repute;", "Because of me, the world will not be mute."]}, {"id": "C8.28.33", "lines": ["My soul has grief allotted as its share;", "Such was the Maker’s will that I must bear.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.34", "lines": ["Then to Bishutan spoke the dying chief:", "“A shroud is all I seek beyond this grief."]}, {"id": "C8.28.35", "lines": ["When I depart this world and life is done,", "Arrange the troops; return with every one."]}, {"id": "C8.28.36", "lines": ["When you have reached Iran, say to my sire:", "‘Seek no excuse; you have your heart’s desire."]}, {"id": "C8.28.37", "lines": ["The age has turned to serve your will and fame;", "Now every seal is subject to your name."]}, {"id": "C8.28.38", "lines": ["I hoped for better things from you, but see", "What your dark soul deemed fitting now for me."]}, {"id": "C8.28.39", "lines": ["I set the world right with the sword of law;", "None dared speak ill of you but stood in awe."]}, {"id": "C8.28.40", "lines": ["When Iran’s Faith was firmly set in place,", "Then kingship was my claim, with royal grace."]}, {"id": "C8.28.41", "lines": ["Before the chiefs your counsel sounded fair,", "Then secretly dispatched me to death’s snare."]}, {"id": "C8.28.42", "lines": ["Now you have gained the longing of your heart;", "Sit at your ease and play the monarch’s part."]}, {"id": "C8.28.43", "lines": ["Since you are safe, go drive death from your halls,", "And feast in peace within your palace walls."]}, {"id": "C8.28.44", "lines": ["The throne and crown are yours to keep and wear;", "The toil, the coffin, and the shroud, my share."]}, {"id": "C8.28.45", "lines": ["The old dehqan, who knew the world, spoke true:", "“Even the arrow’s point must perish too.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.46", "lines": ["Trust not your wealth, your crown, your armed array;", "My soul awaits your coming on the way."]}, {"id": "C8.28.47", "lines": ["When you arrive, we both shall have our say", "Before the Judge and hear His words that day.’"]}, {"id": "C8.28.48", "lines": ["Then leave him; tell my mother, ‘Death drew near,", "And came this time to seek a battle here."]}, {"id": "C8.28.49", "lines": ["Jowshan is wind before death’s arrow-flight;", "Its shafts would pierce a mount of steel outright."]}, {"id": "C8.28.50", "lines": ["You soon will follow when my days are done;", "Do not torment your soul or blame your son."]}, {"id": "C8.28.51", "lines": ["Do not unveil your face before the crowd,", "Nor look upon my face within the shroud."]}, {"id": "C8.28.52", "lines": ["That sight will only make your sorrow grow,", "And wise men will not praise such public woe.’"]}, {"id": "C8.28.53", "lines": ["Go to my sisters and my wife, and tell", "Those noble women where my secrets dwell:"]}, {"id": "C8.28.54", "lines": ["To those wise women bear the words I say:", "‘Farewell forever, now I pass away."]}, {"id": "C8.28.55", "lines": ["My father’s crown has brought this ill to me;", "My life unlocked his wealth; it was the key."]}, {"id": "C8.28.56", "lines": ["I send it now to him, that he may know", "The shame his darkened soul deserves to show.’”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.57", "lines": ["He spoke, then drew a sharp and sudden breath:", "“From Goshtasb came this wrong that brings my death.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.58", "lines": ["His pure soul left the wounded body bare,", "Cast on the darkened dust, beyond all care."]}, {"id": "C8.28.59", "lines": ["Then Rostam tore his breast and robe apart,", "With dust upon his head and pain at heart."]}, {"id": "C8.28.60", "lines": ["He cried, “Alas, O warrior, royal son,", "Whose father ruled, whose grandfather fought and won!"]}, {"id": "C8.28.61", "lines": ["I had a noble name through all the earth;", "Goshtasb has stained my ending and my worth.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.62", "lines": ["Long time he wept, then spoke above the slain:", "“O monarch peerless on the mortal plain,"]}, {"id": "C8.28.63", "lines": ["May Paradise receive your soul in light;", "May your foe reap the harvest of his spite.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.64", "lines": ["Zavareh said, “You should not undertake", "The charge he gave, nor take it for his sake."]}, {"id": "C8.28.65", "lines": ["Have you not heard the old dehqan relate", "The ancient tale that warns us of this fate?"]}, {"id": "C8.28.66", "lines": ["‘If you should raise a lion’s cub, behold:", "Its teeth grow sharp; its heart grows fierce and bold."]}, {"id": "C8.28.67", "lines": ["It grows, then seeks its prey; its first attack", "Falls on the one who raised it, turning back.’"]}, {"id": "C8.28.68", "lines": ["Both sides are stirred to anger; grief is drawn", "First to the realm and people of Iran."]}, {"id": "C8.28.69", "lines": ["Since such a prince as Esfandiyar is dead,", "You too will see ill days around your head."]}, {"id": "C8.28.70", "lines": ["From Bahman, harm to Zabul shall arise;", "The elders of Kabul shall writhe with cries."]}, {"id": "C8.28.71", "lines": ["When he is crowned, he will recall the fight,", "And seek revenge for Esfandiyar’s plight.”"]}, {"id": "C8.28.72", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “Against the turning sky,", "Both good and evil thinkers vainly try."]}, {"id": "C8.28.73", "lines": ["I chose what reason’s eye would look upon", "With praise, that my good name might still live on."]}, {"id": "C8.28.74", "lines": ["If he does ill, Time’s pain shall be his share;", "Do not stir trouble’s eye to wrath; beware.”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.1", "lines": ["An iron coffin Rostam made; he laid", "A cloth of silk from Chin, a rich brocade."]}, {"id": "C8.29.2", "lines": ["He coated one iron face with pitch, then spread", "Musk and abir upon that pitchy bed."]}, {"id": "C8.29.3", "lines": ["They spread a shroud of silk and woven gold,", "And nobles wailed above the prince grown cold."]}, {"id": "C8.29.4", "lines": ["In satin silk they swathed his body bare;", "They crowned his head with turquoise bright and rare."]}, {"id": "C8.29.5", "lines": ["They sealed the iron coffin; never more", "That royal tree would yield the fruit it bore."]}, {"id": "C8.29.6", "lines": ["Then Rostam chose out forty camels tall,", "In Chinese brocade housings, one and all."]}, {"id": "C8.29.7", "lines": ["Two camels bore the coffin of the slain;", "Troops flanked it, led, and followed in the train."]}, {"id": "C8.29.8", "lines": ["With faces torn and hair plucked out, they cried", "His name; their souls still sought him at their side."]}, {"id": "C8.29.9", "lines": ["Tabiras overturned, the banners torn;", "In blue and purple, all were dressed to mourn."]}, {"id": "C8.29.10", "lines": ["Before the troops, Bishutan led the steed,", "Its forelock, tail both shorn; a mournful deed."]}, {"id": "C8.29.11", "lines": ["The saddle on its back was turned around;", "The gorz hung from the saddle, firmly bound."]}, {"id": "C8.29.12", "lines": ["His famous helm and battle-coat he wore,", "His robes and warrior’s coif, the saddle bore."]}, {"id": "C8.29.13", "lines": ["The troops moved on; young Bahman stayed to weep", "In Zabul, shedding heart’s blood, anguish deep."]}, {"id": "C8.29.14", "lines": ["The matchless Rostam took him to his hall,", "And cherished him as life through sorrow’s pall."]}, {"id": "C8.29.15", "lines": ["When news reached Goshtasb of that bitter blow,", "The famous monarch bowed his head in woe."]}, {"id": "C8.29.16", "lines": ["He tore the robes that covered breast and frame;", "His head and crown into the dust both came."]}, {"id": "C8.29.17", "lines": ["A wail rose from the palace, heard afar;", "The world cried out the name Esfandiyar."]}, {"id": "C8.29.18", "lines": ["Throughout the realm, wherever tidings spread,", "Each noble took the crown from off his head."]}, {"id": "C8.29.19", "lines": ["Goshtasb cried, “O champion pure and true,", "No age shall see another chief like you."]}, {"id": "C8.29.20", "lines": ["Not since Manuchehr’s old and royal day", "Had such a prince appeared in war’s array."]}, {"id": "C8.29.21", "lines": ["You stained your blade; you kept the Faith unstained,", "And each great lord’s appointed place maintained.”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.22", "lines": ["The nobles of Iran, inflamed with ire,", "Cast off respect for him, the prince’s sire."]}, {"id": "C8.29.23", "lines": ["They cried, “Unlucky king, you prize your throne", "Above a prince whose peer was never known."]}, {"id": "C8.29.24", "lines": ["You sent great Esfandiyar to be slain,", "That you might keep the crown and royal reign."]}, {"id": "C8.29.25", "lines": ["Shame on your head beneath the crown you wear;", "May fortune hasten off and leave you bare.”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.26", "lines": ["The nobles left the palace, all the crowd;", "Dust filled his court and halls as with a shroud."]}, {"id": "C8.29.27", "lines": ["His mother, sisters, heard the news and came", "With daughters from the palace, grief aflame."]}, {"id": "C8.29.28", "lines": ["Bareheaded, barefoot, all their robes were torn;", "Their feet were thick with dust as they would mourn."]}, {"id": "C8.29.29", "lines": ["When Bishutan came weeping on his way,", "The black steed followed with the bier’s array."]}, {"id": "C8.29.30", "lines": ["The women clung to him with tears of blood,", "And cried as grief rose round them like a flood:"]}, {"id": "C8.29.31", "lines": ["“Unfasten now this iron coffin’s lid,", "And show the wounded prince the coffin hid.”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.32", "lines": ["He stood among the women, crying loud,", "And tore flesh from both arms before the crowd."]}, {"id": "C8.29.33", "lines": ["He asked the smiths for sharp files straightaway:", "“For me this is the Resurrection Day.”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.34", "lines": ["He opened up the covering of the chest;", "Then started fresh to mourn, with grief oppressed."]}, {"id": "C8.29.35", "lines": ["His mother and his sisters saw his face,", "His black beard filled with musk in death’s embrace."]}, {"id": "C8.29.36", "lines": ["The golden-haired ones swooned beneath their grief;", "Their darkened souls could find no more relief."]}, {"id": "C8.29.37", "lines": ["When sense returned within each stricken breast,", "They came to Soroush, fortunate and blessed."]}, {"id": "C8.29.38", "lines": ["They left the prince’s bier and went to stand", "Beside the black steed, wailing in a band."]}, {"id": "C8.29.39", "lines": ["They stroked its mane and breast with loving care;", "And Katayun wept blood upon its hair."]}, {"id": "C8.29.40", "lines": ["That charger bore the prince when fortune fled;", "Upon its back in battle he lay dead."]}, {"id": "C8.29.41", "lines": ["“O shameless steed!” the mother cried in pain,", "“On you the Kayanian king was slain."]}, {"id": "C8.29.42", "lines": ["Whom will you bear to battle from this hour,", "To nahang’s claws, beneath that creature’s power?”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.43", "lines": ["They clasped its mane and clung in their despair,", "And cast the dust upon its head and hair."]}, {"id": "C8.29.44", "lines": ["The army’s outcry reached the clouds on high;", "Then Bishutan approached the Shah nearby."]}, {"id": "C8.29.45", "lines": ["He gave no homage, would not bow his head,", "But came up to the royal throne instead."]}, {"id": "C8.29.46", "lines": ["“O chief of chiefs, your fortune turns away;", "The sign of its reversal comes today."]}, {"id": "C8.29.47", "lines": ["You have done evil to yourself this day,", "And made Iran cry out in deep dismay."]}, {"id": "C8.29.48", "lines": ["Your farr and wisdom both have left your side;", "God’s punishment shall humble all your pride."]}, {"id": "C8.29.49", "lines": ["Your famed support is broken; from this hour", "Your fist holds only wind, bereft of power."]}, {"id": "C8.29.50", "lines": ["To save your throne, you sent your son to die;", "May crown and fortune both your cause deny."]}, {"id": "C8.29.51", "lines": ["The world is full of foes and evil men;", "Your crown will not endure the ages then."]}, {"id": "C8.29.52", "lines": ["Reproach will be your portion in this sphere,", "And Judgment Day will bring your reckoning near.”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.53", "lines": ["He turned to Jamasp, crying in disdain:", "“Ill-born, ill-starred, your deeds are foul with stain."]}, {"id": "C8.29.54", "lines": ["You speak no word except deceit and lies;", "By knavery you rose before men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "C8.29.55", "lines": ["You sow discord among the Kayanian line,", "And set them on each other by design."]}, {"id": "C8.29.56", "lines": ["You teach them nothing but the road to ill,", "To leave the good and follow evil will."]}, {"id": "C8.29.57", "lines": ["You sowed one seed; in secret and in sight,", "And you shall reap its fruit and feel its bite."]}, {"id": "C8.29.58", "lines": ["A noble prince through your advice was slain;", "The days of all the great have turned to pain."]}, {"id": "C8.29.59", "lines": ["You taught the Shah the evil path to choose,", "Old fool, whose mind has no more sense to lose."]}, {"id": "C8.29.60", "lines": ["You said, ‘The hero-prince’s life is crossed,", "And in famed Rostam’s grasp his days are lost.’”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.61", "lines": ["Then Bishutan resumed; he now conveyed", "The counsels, every one, the prince had made."]}, {"id": "C8.29.62", "lines": ["He told of Bahman’s charge to Rostam’s care,", "And made the hidden matter plain and bare."]}, {"id": "C8.29.63", "lines": ["When Shah Goshtasb had heard the final word,", "Remorse within his guilty heart was stirred."]}, {"id": "C8.29.64", "lines": ["When all the nobles left, the sisters came,", "Homahyi and Bih Afrid, grief aflame."]}, {"id": "C8.29.65", "lines": ["Before their father, they tore cheek and hair,", "In anguish for their brother, deep despair."]}, {"id": "C8.29.66", "lines": ["They cried, “O famous monarch, is it right", "That Esfandiyar’s ruin seems so slight?"]}, {"id": "C8.29.67", "lines": ["He first avenged Zarir and broke the foe,", "And saved the Gur-e-Khar from lion’s blow."]}, {"id": "C8.29.68", "lines": ["He took revenge upon the Turkish band,", "And made your kingship firm throughout the land."]}, {"id": "C8.29.69", "lines": ["At slander’s word you bound him, fettered fast,", "With heavy bars and kamand round him cast."]}, {"id": "C8.29.70", "lines": ["While he lay bound, Lohrasp was slain that day,", "The army’s fortune turned and fell away."]}, {"id": "C8.29.71", "lines": ["When from Khallokh Arjasp came to Balkh’s gate,", "Our lives were crushed beneath distress and fate."]}, {"id": "C8.29.72", "lines": ["We, who had kept our faces veiled before,", "Were dragged into the street from the palace door."]}, {"id": "C8.29.73", "lines": ["When Nush Azar Zardoshti was struck down,", "Arjasp then seized the kingdom and its crown."]}, {"id": "C8.29.74", "lines": ["You saw your son raise smoke and dust that day,", "And drive the breath of all your foes away."]}, {"id": "C8.29.75", "lines": ["He brought us from the Ruyin Dezh to you,", "And guarded realm and crown, both firm and true."]}, {"id": "C8.29.76", "lines": ["You sent him from this place to Zabul’s land,", "With many counsels given as command,"]}, {"id": "C8.29.77", "lines": ["So that for crown and throne he might be slain,", "And all the world might writhe and weep in pain."]}, {"id": "C8.29.78", "lines": ["Not Simorgh, Zal, or Rostam struck him dead;", "You killed him; cease these tears of grief you shed."]}, {"id": "C8.29.79", "lines": ["Shame on your old white beard, and on your crown!", "For love of rule you brought your own son down."]}, {"id": "C8.29.80", "lines": ["Before you, worthy kings had ruled the land;", "None gave their sons or kin to death’s dark hand.”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.81", "lines": ["The Shah told Bishutan, “Arise and go;", "Pour water on the children’s fiery woe.”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.82", "lines": ["Then Bishutan came forth and led the train", "Of women from the royal court in pain."]}, {"id": "C8.29.83", "lines": ["He told his mother, “Why, so stricken, pour", "Your grief out, beating fiercely at the door?"]}, {"id": "C8.29.84", "lines": ["He sleeps in joy, his soul serene and bright,", "Weary of realm and ruler, freed from night."]}, {"id": "C8.29.85", "lines": ["Why keep your heart in anguish, so distressed?", "In Paradise he dwells, at peace and blessed.”"]}, {"id": "C8.29.86", "lines": ["His mother took the pious words as guide,", "And with God’s justice rested satisfied."]}, {"id": "C8.29.87", "lines": ["For one full year, through Iran’s streets, the cry", "Of mourning rose, a wail that would not die."]}, {"id": "C8.29.88", "lines": ["For many years they mourned the tamarisk shaft,", "And all the bonds of Zal’s enchanted craft."]}, {"id": "C8.30.1", "lines": ["Bahman remained where Zabul’s gardens grew,", "With wine and hunting to delight him too."]}, {"id": "C8.30.2", "lines": ["Rostam taught riding, wine, and courtly grace", "To that young prince within his dwelling-place."]}, {"id": "C8.30.3", "lines": ["More than his own son, Rostam prized the boy;", "He kept him always near, his constant joy."]}, {"id": "C8.30.4", "lines": ["When word and deed were joined, the door was closed", "On wrath toward Goshtasb, and that feud reposed."]}, {"id": "C8.30.5", "lines": ["Then Rostam wrote a letter filled with grief,", "Recounting all the deeds of that lost chief."]}, {"id": "C8.30.6", "lines": ["He opened with a blessing, wishing peace", "To one whose heart would let old hatred cease."]}, {"id": "C8.30.7", "lines": ["“God is my witness; Bishutan can show", "How much I pleaded that he should forgo"]}, {"id": "C8.30.8", "lines": ["His bitter feud; Esfandiyar I pressed", "To turn from hate and lay the war to rest."]}, {"id": "C8.30.9", "lines": ["I offered him my country and my store,", "And chose to bear the hardships all the more."]}, {"id": "C8.30.10", "lines": ["His fate was such; it would not show its face;", "My heart held pain, my thoughts held love in place."]}, {"id": "C8.30.11", "lines": ["The heavens turned above us to the end;", "No hand could force harsh Destiny to bend."]}, {"id": "C8.30.12", "lines": ["Bahman, the prince, is here beneath my care,", "And Jupiter itself cannot compare."]}, {"id": "C8.30.13", "lines": ["I taught him royal arts, as wisdom bade;", "Through counsel, wisdom’s debt I have repaid."]}, {"id": "C8.30.14", "lines": ["If now the Shah will pledge to pardon me,", "And let the arrow’s deed forgotten be,"]}, {"id": "C8.30.15", "lines": ["My body and my soul, my crown and gold,", "My flesh and marrow; all are his to hold.”"]}, {"id": "C8.30.16", "lines": ["When this had reached the monarch of the land,", "Its words were spread among the noble band."]}, {"id": "C8.30.17", "lines": ["Then Bishutan came forward to attest,", "And told the truth that burdened Rostam’s breast."]}, {"id": "C8.30.18", "lines": ["He told of Rostam’s pleading, how he framed", "His counsel, and the land and kin he named."]}, {"id": "C8.30.19", "lines": ["The famous Shah was reconciled in heart,", "And let his wrath against great Rostam part."]}, {"id": "C8.30.20", "lines": ["He wrote at once and planted with that word", "A tree where greatness bloomed and honor stirred."]}, {"id": "C8.30.21", "lines": ["He said, “When grief descends from heaven’s sphere,", "What wisdom can avert the danger near?"]}, {"id": "C8.30.22", "lines": ["Though men take counsel, who can bar the way", "When turning heaven brings the evil day?"]}, {"id": "C8.30.23", "lines": ["Brave Bishutan has told me your intent,", "And by your goodness all my heart is bent."]}, {"id": "C8.30.24", "lines": ["Who can escape the heavens as they turn?", "The wise do not for days now vanished yearn."]}, {"id": "C8.30.25", "lines": ["You are as once you were, and better still;", "In Hind and Ghanooj, yours the ruler’s will."]}, {"id": "C8.30.26", "lines": ["Ask what you need to raise your royal state:", "Throne, seal, and sword, and crown to make you great.”"]}, {"id": "C8.30.27", "lines": ["The messenger returned without delay,", "As Rostam had commanded him that day."]}, {"id": "C8.30.28", "lines": ["It cheered the famous Pahlevan; his breast", "Was freed from care and set once more at rest."]}, {"id": "C8.30.29", "lines": ["Thus, several years passed by; the prince grew tall,", "His stature rising, noble before all."]}, {"id": "C8.30.30", "lines": ["With wisdom, learning, means to rule the land,", "He raised his crown above the royal band."]}, {"id": "C8.30.31", "lines": ["Jamasp, well versed in good and ill, had known", "That Bahman would inherit crown and throne."]}, {"id": "C8.30.32", "lines": ["He said to Goshtasb, “O king, turn your gaze", "To Bahman, worthy now of royal praise."]}, {"id": "C8.30.33", "lines": ["He has the learning that his father sought,", "And honor crowns the knowledge he was taught."]}, {"id": "C8.30.34", "lines": ["He long has lived abroad; no letter’s word", "Has there been read to him, no message heard."]}, {"id": "C8.30.35", "lines": ["Write now to Bahman; let that letter bear", "The likeness of a tree in Eden fair."]}, {"id": "C8.30.36", "lines": ["What other living memory can allay", "Your grief for Esfandiyar, passed away?”"]}, {"id": "C8.30.37", "lines": ["The counsel pleased the Shah; he gave command", "To wise Jamasp to write with his own hand:"]}, {"id": "C8.30.38", "lines": ["“Write to Bahman, and ask him to draw near,", "And write to Rostam, warrior without peer."]}, {"id": "C8.30.39", "lines": ["Say, ‘Thanks to God, O Pahlevan of might,", "You made us glad and cleared our grieving sight."]}, {"id": "C8.30.40", "lines": ["Our grandson, dearer than our life, has grown", "More famed than wise Jamasp for knowledge shown."]}, {"id": "C8.30.41", "lines": ["Through you he learned good judgment, culture, lore;", "It is but right you send him to our door.’"]}, {"id": "C8.30.42", "lines": ["To Bahman write, ‘When you have read our word,", "Leave Zabul, for our wish must now be heard."]}, {"id": "C8.30.43", "lines": ["We long to see you; make yourself prepared,", "And do not linger once our wish is shared.’”"]}, {"id": "C8.30.44", "lines": ["When Rostam heard the scribe recite the scroll,", "Its message brought rejoicing to his soul."]}, {"id": "C8.30.45", "lines": ["From all his treasures, battle-coats he drew,", "And khanjars gleaming with a watery hue;"]}, {"id": "C8.30.46", "lines": ["Horse armor, arrows, bows, and gorzes bright,", "And Indian khanjars, fitted for the fight;"]}, {"id": "C8.30.47", "lines": ["Fresh aloes, camphor, ambergris, and gold,", "With musk and gems and silver from his hold;"]}, {"id": "C8.30.48", "lines": ["Fine mounts and servants, cloth not cut or sewn,", "And children who as yet were not full-grown;"]}, {"id": "C8.30.49", "lines": ["Gold belts and golden horse gear, richly made,", "Two ruby cups with gold upon them laid."]}, {"id": "C8.30.50", "lines": ["All these to Bahman Rostam gave; the share", "Was counted out, his treasurer’s to bear."]}, {"id": "C8.30.51", "lines": ["Two stages Rostam rode along the way,", "Then sent him to the Shah without delay."]}, {"id": "C8.30.52", "lines": ["When Goshtasb saw his grandson standing near,", "His face was veiled in blood and tear on tear."]}, {"id": "C8.30.53", "lines": ["“You are Esfandiyar,” the monarch cried;", "“You seem like no one in the world beside.”"]}, {"id": "C8.30.54", "lines": ["He found him bright of heart and quick to learn;", "He called him Ardeshir from that day’s turn."]}, {"id": "C8.30.55", "lines": ["He was a warrior, stalwart, strong of hand,", "Devout and wise, a lord fit to command."]}, {"id": "C8.30.56", "lines": ["His arms hung long; when standing straight and tall,", "His hands reached past his knees before them all."]}, {"id": "C8.30.57", "lines": ["The Shah kept testing him as days went by,", "And watched his growing stature with his eye."]}, {"id": "C8.30.58", "lines": ["At feast and hunt and on the open field,", "He showed the strength his father used to wield."]}, {"id": "C8.30.59", "lines": ["Goshtasb could hardly bear him out of sight,", "And over wine would coax him to delight."]}, {"id": "C8.30.60", "lines": ["He said, “Yazdan has given me this son,", "To soothe my grief for all that death has done."]}, {"id": "C8.30.61", "lines": ["May Bahman live forever at my side,", "Since my proud, brazen-bodied son has died.”"]}, {"id": "C8.30.62", "lines": ["May joy be his, his crown rise high and sure,", "His body and his soul from harm secure."]}, {"id": "C8.30.63", "lines": ["May every pain depart and leave him free,", "And Time obey whatever his decree."]}]}, {"id": "C9", "title": "Rostam and Shaghad", "summary": "8 sections · 341 couplets", "path": "/poem/c9/", "couplets": [{"id": "C9.1.1", "lines": ["The tale of Esfandiyar has reached its end,", "As truthful tellers’ words to us descend."]}, {"id": "C9.1.2", "lines": ["Now Rostam’s death shall be my tale to tell,", "Drawn from the book, of how the hero fell."]}, {"id": "C9.1.3", "lines": ["There was an ancient man named Azad Sarv,", "Who lived with Ahmad, son of Sahl, in Marv."]}, {"id": "C9.1.4", "lines": ["He held a book of kings from days of old;", "His frame was cast within a hero’s mold."]}, {"id": "C9.1.5", "lines": ["His heart held eloquence, his mind held lore,", "His tongue preserved the tales of days before."]}, {"id": "C9.1.6", "lines": ["His line from Sahm, Nariman’s son, was drawn;", "He knew how Rostam fought and then was gone."]}, {"id": "C9.1.7", "lines": ["What I received from him I now rehearse,", "And weave it, word by word, into my verse."]}, {"id": "C9.1.8", "lines": ["If still I live within this fleeting stay,", "May soul and wisdom help me find the way."]}, {"id": "C9.1.9", "lines": ["I shall complete this book of ages past,", "And leave the world a story that will last."]}, {"id": "C9.1.10", "lines": ["In Mahmud Abul-Qasim’s name I write,", "The Shah whose crown and throne are filled with light."]}, {"id": "C9.1.11", "lines": ["Iran and Turan, Hind obey his hand;", "His farr makes earth like silk from Roman land."]}, {"id": "C9.1.12", "lines": ["He scatters treasure, generous in his ways;", "Through wisdom fills his coffers from his praise."]}, {"id": "C9.1.13", "lines": ["He is so mighty that in future years", "His praise will live upon the lips of seers."]}, {"id": "C9.1.14", "lines": ["His wars, his gifts, his feasts, his hunts proclaim", "His deeds; his justice fills the world with fame."]}, {"id": "C9.1.15", "lines": ["How blest are those who see his crown and might,", "His court and all his army in their sight."]}, {"id": "C9.1.16", "lines": ["My ears and feet have both begun to fail;", "Old age and want have left my body frail."]}, {"id": "C9.1.17", "lines": ["Ill fortune binds me fast; I must complain", "Of evil luck and years of bitter pain."]}, {"id": "C9.1.18", "lines": ["I praise him still, and still to God entreat", "For our just Shah, the earth beneath his feet."]}, {"id": "C9.1.19", "lines": ["The people join with me in this acclaim,", "Save those whose faith and nature merit blame."]}, {"id": "C9.1.20", "lines": ["Since he sat on the throne, he barred the gate", "Of feud and bound the hand of evil hate."]}, {"id": "C9.1.21", "lines": ["He curbs the man whose pride has grown too great,", "Though it should spring from long-established state."]}, {"id": "C9.1.22", "lines": ["He grants his mercy to the wise who stay", "Within the proper measure of their day."]}, {"id": "C9.1.23", "lines": ["I raise for him a monument on earth,", "Known while men live, a sign of lasting worth."]}, {"id": "C9.1.24", "lines": ["It is this tale of kings from elder days,", "Of mounted heroes and their ancient ways,"]}, {"id": "C9.1.25", "lines": ["Of feast and battle, counsel, words that last,", "And many ancient deeds of ages past;"]}, {"id": "C9.1.26", "lines": ["Of knowledge, faith, restraint, and counsel clear,", "And guidance to the world beyond us here."]}, {"id": "C9.1.27", "lines": ["Whatever in these tales may win his heart", "May serve him now and useful lore impart."]}, {"id": "C9.1.28", "lines": ["No finer monument could mark his days,", "Or keep him company along his ways."]}, {"id": "C9.1.29", "lines": ["I hope in these, my days, to gain the gold", "Our Shah may grant me from his treasure’s hold,"]}, {"id": "C9.1.30", "lines": ["That after death some sign of me may stand,", "Drawn from the treasure in our monarch’s hand."]}, {"id": "C9.1.31", "lines": ["To Sarv, who shone for Sahl Mahan at Marv,", "I turn again; the words of Azad Sarv."]}, {"id": "C9.2.1", "lines": ["Thus spoke the ancient sage of storied mind,", "A man whose speech left polished words behind."]}, {"id": "C9.2.2", "lines": ["Behind Zal’s curtains lived a serving maid,", "Who sang and on sweet strings her music played."]}, {"id": "C9.2.3", "lines": ["One day she bore a son so fair and bright,", "He scarcely differed from the moon in light."]}, {"id": "C9.2.4", "lines": ["In form and stature, Sahm seemed born anew;", "The noble house rejoiced as gladness grew."]}, {"id": "C9.2.5", "lines": ["From Kashmir and Kabul the sages came,", "Astrologers and chiefs of honored name."]}, {"id": "C9.2.6", "lines": ["They worshipped God and sought out knowledge, wise", "In Indian tables used to read the skies."]}, {"id": "C9.2.7", "lines": ["They reckoned all the heavens to explore", "What that fair child might find in fate’s vast store."]}, {"id": "C9.2.8", "lines": ["The readers of the stars, in wonder caught,", "Looked at each other, troubled by their thought."]}, {"id": "C9.2.9", "lines": ["They spoke to Zal, the son of Sahm, and said,", "“O heir of those whose stars shone overhead,"]}, {"id": "C9.2.10", "lines": ["We searched the heavens’ secrets, sphere by sphere;", "They hold no love for this young child so dear."]}, {"id": "C9.2.11", "lines": ["When this fair infant comes at last of age,", "And enters on the valiant warrior’s stage,"]}, {"id": "C9.2.12", "lines": ["He will destroy the house of Sahm one day,", "And bring the line of Nariman’s decay."]}, {"id": "C9.2.13", "lines": ["Through him Sistan will ring with troubled cries,", "And in Iran great tumult will arise."]}, {"id": "C9.2.14", "lines": ["He will make bitter every person’s years,", "Then from this world he quickly disappears.”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.15", "lines": ["Zal, son of Sahm, was stricken to the heart,", "And called on God, from whom all counsels start."]}, {"id": "C9.2.16", "lines": ["“O Judge of all, O Guide of humankind,", "Sustainer of the heavens, wise and kind,"]}, {"id": "C9.2.17", "lines": ["My refuge, stay, and source along my way,", "You show the path that I must take each day."]}, {"id": "C9.2.18", "lines": ["You made the sky and stars; to you we raise", "Our hopes of goodness through our coming days."]}, {"id": "C9.2.19", "lines": ["May joy and rest and goodness be our share.”", "He named him Shaghad as he closed his prayer."]}, {"id": "C9.2.20", "lines": ["His mother reared the child on milk; he grew", "Quick-witted, eloquent, and fair to view."]}, {"id": "C9.2.21", "lines": ["When he grew strong, Zal sent him on his way", "To Kabul’s king, with whom he was to stay."]}, {"id": "C9.2.22", "lines": ["When tall Shaghad rose like a cypress tree,", "He rode with gorz and cast the kamand free."]}, {"id": "C9.2.23", "lines": ["The king found him, in stature, fit to own", "The Kayanian diadem and royal throne."]}, {"id": "C9.2.24", "lines": ["The king rejoiced and chose him for his race;", "He gave his daughter to that youth of grace."]}, {"id": "C9.2.25", "lines": ["He sent a fitting dowry from his hoard,", "His famous daughter’s portion, to her lord."]}, {"id": "C9.2.26", "lines": ["He kept him like a fresh and cherished fruit,", "An apple safe from evil stars’ pursuit."]}, {"id": "C9.2.27", "lines": ["The lords of Hind and Iran spoke his name,", "Recounting tales of Rostam’s mighty fame."]}, {"id": "C9.2.28", "lines": ["The annual tribute that from Kabul came", "Was one ox-hide, which Rostam used to claim."]}, {"id": "C9.2.29", "lines": ["The king, when young Shaghad became his kin,", "Thought tribute soon would cease and joy begin."]}, {"id": "C9.2.30", "lines": ["He thought the lord of Zabul from that day", "Would leave the tribute money where it lay."]}, {"id": "C9.2.31", "lines": ["But when the levy still was claimed and paid,", "Kabul was thrown in turmoil, and dismayed."]}, {"id": "C9.2.32", "lines": ["Shaghad grew angry at his brother’s deed,", "But spoke to no one of the anger’s seed."]}, {"id": "C9.2.33", "lines": ["In secret to Kabul’s king he confessed:", "“This world and all its ways I now detest."]}, {"id": "C9.2.34", "lines": ["How can I honor such a brother’s name,", "Who shows me neither courtesy nor shame?"]}, {"id": "C9.2.35", "lines": ["No matter whether wise or mad he be,", "An elder brother or no kin to me,"]}, {"id": "C9.2.36", "lines": ["Let us devise a snare to end his breath,", "And win renown by mighty Rostam’s death.”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.37", "lines": ["They talked, agreed, and nursed their thoughts on high,", "Above the moon that travels through the sky."]}, {"id": "C9.2.38", "lines": ["The sage has said, “Whoever does a wrong", "Will meet its punishment, however strong.”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.39", "lines": ["They lay awake until the dawn grew bright,", "While sleep fled far from both throughout the night."]}, {"id": "C9.2.40", "lines": ["They said, “We shall erase his name, and fill", "Zal’s heart and eyes with hatred, sharp and ill.”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.41", "lines": ["Shaghad then told the king of Kabul, “Hear", "The means by which our purpose may draw near."]}, {"id": "C9.2.42", "lines": ["Prepare a feast; let all the nobles share", "In wine and music, minstrels everywhere."]}, {"id": "C9.2.43", "lines": ["While drinking, coldly shame me in that hall;", "Call me unmanly there before them all."]}, {"id": "C9.2.44", "lines": ["Dishonored, I shall go to Zabul’s land,", "Complaining of the wrong done by your hand."]}, {"id": "C9.2.45", "lines": ["Before my father and my brother, scorn", "I shall pour on you, graceless and low-born."]}, {"id": "C9.2.46", "lines": ["Then Rostam, stung by all the wrong I tell,", "Will ride against the city where you dwell."]}, {"id": "C9.2.47", "lines": ["Along the road, choose out a hunting place,", "And dig deep pits concealed across its face."]}, {"id": "C9.2.48", "lines": ["Make pits to hold both Rostam and his steed,", "And set long swords below to serve our deed."]}, {"id": "C9.2.49", "lines": ["Set spears and steel below, their points held high,", "Their handles buried, hidden from the eye."]}, {"id": "C9.2.50", "lines": ["A hundred pits will serve us more than five;", "Thus from your troubles freedom may arrive."]}, {"id": "C9.2.51", "lines": ["Employ a hundred cunning workers, bound", "To secrecy; let not a rumor sound."]}, {"id": "C9.2.52", "lines": ["Then make the mouths of all the pits secure,", "And tell none; let total silence endure.”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.53", "lines": ["The monarch cast all sober sense aside,", "And held the feast, with mad Shaghad as guide."]}, {"id": "C9.2.54", "lines": ["He summoned Kabul’s nobles to the hall,", "And set a laden board before them all."]}, {"id": "C9.2.55", "lines": ["When they had eaten, revels filled the court,", "With wine and strings and minstrels for their sport."]}, {"id": "C9.2.56", "lines": ["When royal wine had heated every head,", "Shaghad grew insolent, as planned, and said:"]}, {"id": "C9.2.57", "lines": ["“In every gathering, I stand alone", "Above the rest,” he said in boastful tone."]}, {"id": "C9.2.58", "lines": ["“With Rostam for my brother, Zal my sire,", "What nobler ancestry could men desire?”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.59", "lines": ["The king feigned anger, answering with spite:", "“Why should I hide the truth now brought to light?"]}, {"id": "C9.2.60", "lines": ["No root in Sahm, Nariman’s son, have you;", "No brother’s bond with Rostam links you two."]}, {"id": "C9.2.61", "lines": ["Zal never speaks of you or calls your name;", "Why should your brother recognize your claim?"]}, {"id": "C9.2.62", "lines": ["You stand below his servants in disgrace;", "His mother will not own the line you trace.”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.63", "lines": ["Shaghad, as though enraged by what was said,", "Departed toward Zabul with wrathful tread."]}, {"id": "C9.2.64", "lines": ["He rode with men from Kabul, cold his sigh,", "His heart on vengeance, as farsangs went by."]}, {"id": "C9.2.65", "lines": ["He reached his glorious father’s royal court,", "With schemes concealed beneath his false report."]}, {"id": "C9.2.66", "lines": ["When Zal beheld his son so tall and bright,", "With grace divine and sinews full of might,"]}, {"id": "C9.2.67", "lines": ["He questioned him and showed him every grace,", "Then sent him on to Rostam’s dwelling-place."]}, {"id": "C9.2.68", "lines": ["The Pahlevan rejoiced at that glad sight,", "His wisdom and his spirit’s shining light."]}, {"id": "C9.2.69", "lines": ["He said, “From Sahm descend the brave and bold;", "His seed breeds lion-hearts of proven mold."]}, {"id": "C9.2.70", "lines": ["How stand affairs between Kabul and you?", "What does its king now say of Rostam too?”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.71", "lines": ["Shaghad replied, “Speak not of Kabul’s king;", "No more let any word his memory bring."]}, {"id": "C9.2.72", "lines": ["Before, his kindness toward me was sincere;", "He blessed me when he saw me drawing near."]}, {"id": "C9.2.73", "lines": ["Now, in his cups, he seeks to start a fight,", "And lifts his head above all men in sight."]}, {"id": "C9.2.74", "lines": ["He shamed me openly before his men,", "And showed the malice hidden from me then."]}, {"id": "C9.2.75", "lines": ["He said, ‘How long must tribute take its toll?", "We cannot stand against Sistan’s control."]}, {"id": "C9.2.76", "lines": ["I will no longer bow to Rostam’s name;", "My strength and birth give him no higher claim.’"]}, {"id": "C9.2.77", "lines": ["‘No son of Zal,’ he said, ‘or, if you were,", "Zal’s worth is nothing; what could that confer?’"]}, {"id": "C9.2.78", "lines": ["My heart was wounded before all those men;", "In grief and pallor I left Kabul then.”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.79", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, fierce anger filled his breast:", "“No hidden matter long remains suppressed."]}, {"id": "C9.2.80", "lines": ["Think not of him, his country, or his crown;", "May realm and diadem alike fall down."]}, {"id": "C9.2.81", "lines": ["For those harsh words, his life shall reach its end;", "And grief upon his household shall descend."]}, {"id": "C9.2.82", "lines": ["I shall seat you upon his throne in mirth,", "And cast his lofty fortune to the earth.”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.83", "lines": ["He kept Shaghad in honor many a day,", "And gave him lofty quarters for his stay."]}, {"id": "C9.2.84", "lines": ["He chose from all his army men whose name", "Was known in battle, warriors great in fame."]}, {"id": "C9.2.85", "lines": ["He ordered them to ready for the road;", "In Kabul they would make their new abode."]}, {"id": "C9.2.86", "lines": ["When all stood ready, and the warrior chief", "Had put his cares aside and found relief,"]}, {"id": "C9.2.87", "lines": ["Shaghad approached the warrior and said,", "“Put thoughts of war with Kabul from your head."]}, {"id": "C9.2.88", "lines": ["Write but your name on water, and no sleep", "Will come to Kabul; none their rest will keep."]}, {"id": "C9.2.89", "lines": ["Who dares to come against you in the fight?", "Who waits when you begin to move in might?"]}, {"id": "C9.2.90", "lines": ["I think the king regrets his former deed,", "And since I left, has sought help in his need."]}, {"id": "C9.2.91", "lines": ["He now will bring picked chiefs to seek your grace,", "Petitioners from Kabul to this place.”"]}, {"id": "C9.2.92", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “That is the proper way;", "I need no army for Kabul today."]}, {"id": "C9.2.93", "lines": ["Zavareh and a hundred horsemen strong,", "A hundred famed footmen, will come along.”"]}, {"id": "C9.3.1", "lines": ["When evil-starred Shaghad left Kabul’s bounds,", "The king rode swiftly to the hunting grounds."]}, {"id": "C9.3.2", "lines": ["He chose the diggers from his fighting band,", "Men known among the soldiers of his land."]}, {"id": "C9.3.3", "lines": ["They honeycombed the hunting ground below", "With pits beneath the paths where riders go."]}, {"id": "C9.3.4", "lines": ["Within them, hafts set downward in the ground,", "Sharp blades and spears were planted all around."]}, {"id": "C9.3.5", "lines": ["No human eye, no wary beast, could spy", "What treachery beneath the earth might lie."]}, {"id": "C9.3.6", "lines": ["When Rostam set out, eager for the ride,", "Shaghad sent forth a horseman from his side:"]}, {"id": "C9.3.7", "lines": ["“The hero comes without an army; plead", "For his protection, pardon for your deed.”"]}, {"id": "C9.3.8", "lines": ["The king of Kabul, poison in his soul,", "With pleas upon his tongue, assumed his role."]}, {"id": "C9.3.9", "lines": ["When Rostam came in sight, he left his horse,", "And came on foot with grief and with remorse."]}, {"id": "C9.3.10", "lines": ["He bared his head, the Indian turban shed,", "And placed his hands upon his naked head."]}, {"id": "C9.3.11", "lines": ["He drew his boots off, humbled in disgrace,", "While tears like blood ran down his stricken face."]}, {"id": "C9.3.12", "lines": ["With both his cheeks in dust, he begged for grace", "For what had passed in Shaghad’s grievous case."]}, {"id": "C9.3.13", "lines": ["“If drunken folly led your slave astray,", "And made him rise against you, disobey,"]}, {"id": "C9.3.14", "lines": ["Forgive this fault and let me take my stand", "As once I stood, obedient to your hand.”"]}, {"id": "C9.3.15", "lines": ["Barefoot he walked before the chief, his mind", "On hatred fixed, his heart to plots inclined."]}, {"id": "C9.3.16", "lines": ["Rostam forgave the fault and showed him grace,", "Then raised him higher in his former place."]}, {"id": "C9.3.17", "lines": ["He bade him cover both his feet and head;", "The king remounted, riding on ahead."]}, {"id": "C9.3.18", "lines": ["Near Kabul lay a pleasant, fertile spot,", "Where greenery made lovely every plot."]}, {"id": "C9.3.19", "lines": ["There stood the trees, and water graced the ground;", "With joy they set their seats there all around."]}, {"id": "C9.3.20", "lines": ["The king brought food in plentiful array,", "And made a festive place both bright and gay."]}, {"id": "C9.3.21", "lines": ["He brought the wine and called for song to ring;", "The nobles sat on seats fit for a king."]}, {"id": "C9.3.22", "lines": ["Thereafter he addressed the chief and said:", "“When you would hunt, a noble range lies spread."]}, {"id": "C9.3.23", "lines": ["I have a place where hill and plain abound", "With herds of game on every stretch of ground."]}, {"id": "C9.3.24", "lines": ["The hills hold sheep; wild asses fill the plain;", "Whoever has a swift steed by the rein"]}, {"id": "C9.3.25", "lines": ["Will take wild ass and gazelle in the chase;", "No hunter ought to pass so fair a place.”"]}, {"id": "C9.3.26", "lines": ["Rostam grew eager at the words he heard", "Of watered plains where deer and wild ass stirred."]}, {"id": "C9.3.27", "lines": ["The heart turns toward the thing that brings its end;", "Blind judgment follows where its wishes tend."]}, {"id": "C9.3.28", "lines": ["This turning world behaves in such a way,", "And keeps its hidden secrets from the day."]}, {"id": "C9.3.29", "lines": ["The sea’s nahang, the leopard of the plain,", "And fierce, sharp-clawed lion all strive in vain."]}, {"id": "C9.3.30", "lines": ["Like ant and gnat, they meet the grip of death;", "No means can save them from their final breath."]}, {"id": "C9.3.31", "lines": ["He bade them saddle Rakhsh and range the field", "With hawks and falcons for the hunt’s rich yield."]}, {"id": "C9.3.32", "lines": ["He laid his royal bow within its case,", "And rode beside Shaghad toward the chase."]}, {"id": "C9.3.33", "lines": ["Zavareh too was numbered in that ride,", "A few renowned companions at his side."]}, {"id": "C9.3.34", "lines": ["The hunting troops dispersed across the plain;", "On dug or filled-in ground they loosed the rein."]}, {"id": "C9.3.35", "lines": ["Yet Rostam and Zavareh took the way", "Among the pits, where Fate had marked its prey."]}, {"id": "C9.3.36", "lines": ["Rakhsh smelled the earth and drew his body small,", "Bunching himself as rounded as a ball."]}, {"id": "C9.3.37", "lines": ["He leapt in fear at what his nostrils found,", "And with his hooves he tore the yielding ground."]}, {"id": "C9.3.38", "lines": ["Rakhsh stepped along the path; his onward stride", "Led him between two pits, one on each side."]}, {"id": "C9.3.39", "lines": ["With eyes now veiled, Rostam in anger turned", "Against his horse, while Death more fiercely burned."]}, {"id": "C9.3.40", "lines": ["He lifted up the whip and struck his steed,", "And, angry, urged brave Rakhsh to greater speed."]}, {"id": "C9.3.41", "lines": ["Hemmed in between two pits, he sought a way", "To flee the grasp of Fate that claimed its prey."]}, {"id": "C9.3.42", "lines": ["Two feet sank in; no foothold anywhere,", "No room to struggle in that deadly snare."]}, {"id": "C9.3.43", "lines": ["The pit was lined with spear and sharpened blade;", "No strength could help; no flight could bring him aid."]}, {"id": "C9.3.44", "lines": ["Steel tore Rakhsh’s flank and pierced the man of might", "Through breast and leg, despite his strength in fight."]}, {"id": "C9.4.1", "lines": ["With strength he drew his body to the rim,", "Up from the pit where steel had wounded him."]}, {"id": "C9.4.2", "lines": ["When wounded Rostam opened up his eyes,", "He saw Shaghad, who plotted his demise."]}, {"id": "C9.4.3", "lines": ["He knew the hand that had contrived the snare,", "And knew his brother’s treachery laid bare."]}, {"id": "C9.4.4", "lines": ["He said, “Ill-fated man, your evil hand", "Has brought to ruin all this thriving land."]}, {"id": "C9.4.5", "lines": ["You shall repent this deed and pay its wage;", "You shall not live to reach a ripe old age.”"]}, {"id": "C9.4.6", "lines": ["The vile Shaghad replied, “The heavens’ round", "Has brought you justice, struck you to the ground."]}, {"id": "C9.4.7", "lines": ["How long have you made blood and plunder flow,", "And spread your wars through every realm below?"]}, {"id": "C9.4.8", "lines": ["Now life shall leave you; now your end is near;", "The hands of Divs shall slay you, helpless here.”"]}, {"id": "C9.4.9", "lines": ["Then Kabul’s king came riding on his way", "Into the hunting ground where Rostam lay."]}, {"id": "C9.4.10", "lines": ["He saw the mighty warrior on the ground,", "His body torn, his wounds still left unbound."]}, {"id": "C9.4.11", "lines": ["“O famed warrior,” he said, “what sudden blow", "Has struck you in these hunting grounds so low?"]}, {"id": "C9.4.12", "lines": ["I shall bring healers swiftly to this plain,", "And weep tears red as blood for all your pain."]}, {"id": "C9.4.13", "lines": ["Perhaps your wounds may heal, and I need shed", "No tears of blood to dye my features red.”"]}, {"id": "C9.4.14", "lines": ["Then Rostam answered, wounded where he lay:", "“You evil-natured schemer, hear me say:"]}, {"id": "C9.4.15", "lines": ["My time for healers now has passed; for me", "Shed no red tears to mourn what has to be."]}, {"id": "C9.4.16", "lines": ["Though long you live, death comes by fixed decree.", "No living man can pass the sky and flee."]}, {"id": "C9.4.17", "lines": ["I had no greater farr than Jamshid knew;", "Yet Bivar’s saw divided him in two."]}, {"id": "C9.4.18", "lines": ["Nor did my farr exceed those kings of earth,", "Fereydoon, Kay Qobad, of blessed birth."]}, {"id": "C9.4.19", "lines": ["When Siavash met the fate the heavens willed,", "By Gurvi’s khanjar was his lifeblood spilled."]}, {"id": "C9.4.20", "lines": ["They all were sovereigns over Iran’s land,", "Like male lions in battle did they stand."]}, {"id": "C9.4.21", "lines": ["They went, while we have lingered on this way;", "Like fierce lions at a crossing, still we stay."]}, {"id": "C9.4.22", "lines": ["My world-wise son, Faramarz, will pursue", "My vengeance, and exact its price from you.”"]}, {"id": "C9.4.23", "lines": ["He said to foul Shaghad, “Since treacherous steel", "Has laid me here with wounds no hand can heal,"]}, {"id": "C9.4.24", "lines": ["Uncase my bow; let it express my will,", "My own interpreter, whose voice can kill."]}, {"id": "C9.4.25", "lines": ["String it, and set two arrows close to me;", "A hunting lion must not chance to see"]}, {"id": "C9.4.26", "lines": ["Me lying wounded, helpless to withstand", "Its harm; a bow would serve me in my hand."]}, {"id": "C9.4.27", "lines": ["Lest some old lion tear my flesh, I trust", "This bow to guard me till I fall to dust.”"]}, {"id": "C9.4.28", "lines": ["Shaghad drew near and strung the bow up tight,", "Then drew it once to test the weapon’s might."]}, {"id": "C9.4.29", "lines": ["He laughed and laid it by the wounded chief;", "His brother’s mortal wounds brought joy, not grief."]}, {"id": "C9.4.30", "lines": ["The matchless hero took the bow in pain,", "And held it out despite his wounds and strain."]}, {"id": "C9.4.31", "lines": ["Shaghad, in terror of the arrows, fled,", "And put a tree between them, pale with dread."]}, {"id": "C9.4.32", "lines": ["A plane tree stood nearby, whose ancient frame", "Had stood through many years before he came."]}, {"id": "C9.4.33", "lines": ["Its trunk was hollow, yet its leaves still grew;", "It hid the wicked-minded man from view."]}, {"id": "C9.4.34", "lines": ["Though wounded, Rostam raised his hand to slay;", "He drew the bow and loosed the shaft away."]}, {"id": "C9.4.35", "lines": ["The shaft sewed tree and brother into one,", "And joy lit Rostam’s heart, his life near done."]}, {"id": "C9.4.36", "lines": ["Shaghad cried out when struck; his pain was brief;", "The hero’s shaft had brought him quick relief."]}, {"id": "C9.4.37", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “To God I offer praise;", "For I have known Him all my living days."]}, {"id": "C9.4.38", "lines": ["Though life had reached my lips, revenge was won", "Before two nights had passed; the deed was done."]}, {"id": "C9.4.39", "lines": ["You gave me strength to strike this faithless foe", "Before my death, and deal revenge’s blow.”"]}, {"id": "C9.4.40", "lines": ["He spoke; his soul departed from its shell,", "And all the people mourned the man who fell."]}, {"id": "C9.5.1", "lines": ["In yet another pit Zavareh lay;", "All but one rider perished on that day."]}, {"id": "C9.5.2", "lines": ["One noble rider fled that field of dead,", "Now riding, now on foot, in haste he sped."]}, {"id": "C9.5.3", "lines": ["When he reached Zabul, pallid with despair,", "He cried, “The Elephant lies in the snare."]}, {"id": "C9.5.4", "lines": ["Zavareh too, and all the escort, lie;", "No other horseman lived to bring reply.”"]}, {"id": "C9.5.5", "lines": ["Through Zabul rose a bitter cry of grief", "Against Kabul’s false king, the hostile chief."]}, {"id": "C9.5.6", "lines": ["Zal cast the dust upon his silver hair,", "And tore his breast and face in wild despair."]}, {"id": "C9.5.7", "lines": ["He cried, “Alas, great elephant in might!", "Let only shrouds now clothe me, cold and white."]}, {"id": "C9.5.8", "lines": ["Zavareh too, that noble warrior bold,", "That dragon-hearted lion, fierce of old!"]}, {"id": "C9.5.9", "lines": ["Accursed Shaghad, luckless in his birth,", "Has torn that royal tree up from the earth."]}, {"id": "C9.5.10", "lines": ["Who knew a wicked fox could scheme to slay", "An elephant upon that land one day?"]}, {"id": "C9.5.11", "lines": ["Who can recall an age that knew such woe,", "Or tell what teacher spoke of such a blow?"]}, {"id": "C9.5.12", "lines": ["That I should see great Rostam in the dust,", "Slain by a fox whose words had won his trust!"]}, {"id": "C9.5.13", "lines": ["Why did I not die first and leave this breath?", "Why am I left to mourn them after death?"]}, {"id": "C9.5.14", "lines": ["What need have I of life or lasting name,", "Of food or rest, of pleasure or acclaim?"]}, {"id": "C9.5.15", "lines": ["O chief who took the lion in the fray!", "O world-subduing man, now torn away!”"]}, {"id": "C9.5.16", "lines": ["He sent an army forth to fight the king;", "And charged Faramarz with this grievous thing:"]}, {"id": "C9.5.17", "lines": ["To bring the slain man’s body from the pit,", "And make the whole world weep and mourn for it."]}, {"id": "C9.5.18", "lines": ["When Faramarz before Kabul drew near,", "No man of name was left who might appear."]}, {"id": "C9.5.19", "lines": ["They all had fled; the town in ruin and bare,", "Its hearts burned through by sorrow and despair."]}, {"id": "C9.5.20", "lines": ["Then Faramarz went to the hunting place,", "And saw the treacherous pits across its face."]}, {"id": "C9.5.21", "lines": ["He ordered biers set out; upon a bier", "They laid that splendid tree, their warrior dear."]}, {"id": "C9.5.22", "lines": ["They loosed the hero’s belt and stripped away", "The royal robes in which his body lay."]}, {"id": "C9.5.23", "lines": ["They washed his breast and neck, his body bare,", "And beard in water warm, with gentle care."]}, {"id": "C9.5.24", "lines": ["They burned rich ambergris and saffron bright,", "And sewed his gaping wounds to close them tight."]}, {"id": "C9.5.25", "lines": ["They poured rosewater on his face and head,", "And laid pure camphor on the mighty dead."]}, {"id": "C9.5.26", "lines": ["When they had dressed him in brocade so fine,", "They called for roses and for musk and wine."]}, {"id": "C9.5.27", "lines": ["The shroud-maker, with bloody tears that flowed,", "Combed out the beard whose camphor whiteness showed."]}, {"id": "C9.5.28", "lines": ["Two biers could not contain him as he lay;", "Was this a man, or tree that shades the day?"]}, {"id": "C9.5.29", "lines": ["They made a splendid coffin out of teak,", "With golden nails and ivory figures sleek."]}, {"id": "C9.5.30", "lines": ["They sealed each seam with pitch to make it fast,", "Then musk and fragrant blends upon it cast."]}, {"id": "C9.5.31", "lines": ["They drew Zavareh’s body from the pit,", "And stitched his wounds to close each gaping slit."]}, {"id": "C9.5.32", "lines": ["They washed him, wrapped him in brocade, and found", "An elm that grew upon the nearby ground."]}, {"id": "C9.5.33", "lines": ["The carpenters cut heavy boards to bear", "The dead and shaped them with their practiced care."]}, {"id": "C9.5.34", "lines": ["With musk and camphor strewn above the bed,", "They poured rosewater underneath the dead."]}, {"id": "C9.5.35", "lines": ["Then from the pit they drew brave Rakhsh that day,", "And washed and clothed the body where it lay."]}, {"id": "C9.5.36", "lines": ["Two days were spent; an elephant then bore", "The body of the steed who breathed no more."]}, {"id": "C9.5.37", "lines": ["From Kabul up to Zabul, every road", "Bent down beneath the public sorrow’s load."]}, {"id": "C9.5.38", "lines": ["The men and women gathered there in streams;", "No room remained amid their cries and screams."]}, {"id": "C9.5.39", "lines": ["They passed the two great coffins hand to hand,", "As if the wind bore them across the land."]}, {"id": "C9.5.40", "lines": ["They reached Zabul in two days and one night,", "And neither bier touched earth along the flight."]}, {"id": "C9.5.41", "lines": ["The death of Rostam filled the age with cries;", "The plain seemed boiling as those cries would rise."]}, {"id": "C9.5.42", "lines": ["No voice could reach another through the sound;", "In every land the wail of grief went round."]}, {"id": "C9.5.43", "lines": ["They built his tomb within a garden fair,", "And raised its roof to meet the clouds in air."]}, {"id": "C9.5.44", "lines": ["They set two golden thrones within the room,", "And laid on them the hero in his tomb."]}, {"id": "C9.5.45", "lines": ["Then all who once had served his royal name,", "Both free and faithful servants, grieving, came."]}, {"id": "C9.5.46", "lines": ["They mingled musk and roses, rich and sweet,", "And poured them at the mighty hero’s feet."]}, {"id": "C9.5.47", "lines": ["And each exclaimed, “O famous man of worth,", "Why wish for musk and ambergris on earth?"]}, {"id": "C9.5.48", "lines": ["No feast now draws you to its honored seat;", "No babr clothes you for the battle’s heat."]}, {"id": "C9.5.49", "lines": ["You give no more your treasures, coin or gold;", "Such things have lost the worth they had of old."]}, {"id": "C9.5.50", "lines": ["May Paradise bring joy where you abide;", "God formed you just, with manliness your guide.”"]}, {"id": "C9.5.51", "lines": ["They closed the tomb’s great door and turned to go;", "That lofty warrior lay forever low."]}, {"id": "C9.5.52", "lines": ["What do you seek in this world? None may stay.", "Grief marks its first and final passing day."]}, {"id": "C9.5.53", "lines": ["Though faithful, or of Ahriman’s dark kin,", "Though made of iron, dust will take you in."]}, {"id": "C9.5.54", "lines": ["While life endures, to deeds of goodness turn,", "That joy beyond this world you yet may earn."]}, {"id": "C9.6.1", "lines": ["When Faramarz had mourned his father slain,", "He led his gathered troops onto the plain."]}, {"id": "C9.6.2", "lines": ["He opened Rostam’s house and brought to light", "His father’s treasure, arming troops to fight."]}, {"id": "C9.6.3", "lines": ["At dawn the karnays lifted up their cry,", "Tabiras, Indian bells that shook the sky."]}, {"id": "C9.6.4", "lines": ["From Zabul toward Kabul his army poured,", "So vast the sun was hidden by the horde."]}, {"id": "C9.6.5", "lines": ["The ruler heard that Zabul’s men drew near,", "Its chiefs and warriors armed with sword and spear."]}, {"id": "C9.6.6", "lines": ["He called his scattered troops, and in they drew;", "The earth turned iron, air turned lapis-blue."]}, {"id": "C9.6.7", "lines": ["He marched to meet the troops; a dusty shroud", "Hid sun and moon behind its darkened cloud."]}, {"id": "C9.6.8", "lines": ["When those two armies faced each other’s ranks,", "The warriors’ cries resounded from the flanks."]}, {"id": "C9.6.9", "lines": ["Within the woods, the lions lost their way,", "As horses thronged and dust obscured the day."]}, {"id": "C9.6.10", "lines": ["A wind arose; blue clouds of dust were spun,", "Until the earth and heaven seemed as one."]}, {"id": "C9.6.11", "lines": ["Then Faramarz advanced before his force,", "His eyes fixed on the king throughout his course."]}, {"id": "C9.6.12", "lines": ["Tabiras of both armies shook the ground;", "The restless fighters stirred at every sound."]}, {"id": "C9.6.13", "lines": ["With his slight force he charged the center’s might,", "And hurled himself into the thick of fight."]}, {"id": "C9.6.14", "lines": ["The riders’ dust made all the daylight dim;", "Kabul’s king fell a captive there to him."]}, {"id": "C9.6.15", "lines": ["His mighty force was scattered in dismay;", "Iran’s brave men were wolves upon the prey."]}, {"id": "C9.6.16", "lines": ["From every side they ambushed them and sped", "Behind the fleeing ranks as on they fled."]}, {"id": "C9.6.17", "lines": ["They slew the warriors of Hind in flight,", "And Sind’s proud chiefs fell with them in the fight."]}, {"id": "C9.6.18", "lines": ["They slew so many, blood became a mire;", "The men of Sind and Hind fled from their ire."]}, {"id": "C9.6.19", "lines": ["They fled their homes and lands in terror blind,", "And left their wives and children all behind."]}, {"id": "C9.6.20", "lines": ["Into an elephant’s high box they cast", "The bloodied king and held their captive fast."]}, {"id": "C9.6.21", "lines": ["Then Faramarz brought him back to the ground", "Where once the fatal pits had all been found."]}, {"id": "C9.6.22", "lines": ["He led the foe, his hands securely tied,", "With forty idol-serving kin beside."]}, {"id": "C9.6.23", "lines": ["He stripped a thong of skin from off his back,", "Till bone and sinew showed along the track."]}, {"id": "C9.6.24", "lines": ["He hung him headfirst in the pit of dread,", "His body dust-clad, mouth all bloody red."]}, {"id": "C9.6.25", "lines": ["He burned the forty kinsmen, one and all,", "Then sought Shaghad, the author of the fall."]}, {"id": "C9.6.26", "lines": ["He raised a mountain fire that blazed around,", "And burned Shaghad, the plane tree, and the ground."]}, {"id": "C9.6.27", "lines": ["He led the troops toward Zabul; in their train,", "They bore that dust to Dastan from the plain."]}, {"id": "C9.6.28", "lines": ["When Faramarz had cut the tyrant down,", "He chose a man to rule in Kabul’s town."]}, {"id": "C9.6.29", "lines": ["None of that house in Kabul could evade", "The death-decree proclaimed by his sharp blade."]}, {"id": "C9.6.30", "lines": ["He came from Kabul, seared by grief that grew;", "The brightest day seemed dark and lapis-blue."]}, {"id": "C9.6.31", "lines": ["All Bost and Zabul raised their cries of grief;", "Their clothes were torn, their sorrow past relief."]}, {"id": "C9.6.32", "lines": ["They came to meet brave Faramarz in pain,", "With torn breasts, hearts that burned for Rostam slain."]}, {"id": "C9.7.1", "lines": ["For one full year, all Sistan mourned and knew", "No joy; its people robed in black and blue."]}, {"id": "C9.7.2", "lines": ["One day Rudabeh spoke to Zal and said:", "“Lament for Rostam, for his life has fled."]}, {"id": "C9.7.3", "lines": ["For surely since the sun first lit the sky,", "No darker day has passed beneath its eye.”"]}, {"id": "C9.7.4", "lines": ["Zal answered her: “O foolish woman, know", "That hunger’s pain will far surpass this woe.”"]}, {"id": "C9.7.5", "lines": ["Rudabeh raged and swore: “No food or sleep", "Shall touch my body while this vow I keep."]}, {"id": "C9.7.6", "lines": ["Perhaps my soul will see his soul once more,", "Among the souls who gathered there before.”"]}, {"id": "C9.7.7", "lines": ["She fasted for a week in hope to hold", "Communion with his spirit, bright and bold."]}, {"id": "C9.7.8", "lines": ["Her eyes grew dim; her body dwindled fast,", "And frailer grew with every day she passed."]}, {"id": "C9.7.9", "lines": ["Wherever she might go, attendants stayed", "Close by her side, of harm to her afraid."]}, {"id": "C9.7.10", "lines": ["At one week’s end, her reason from her fled;", "Now helpless, she went seeking to be fed."]}, {"id": "C9.7.11", "lines": ["She went into the kitchen in the night,", "Where water held a dead snake in her sight."]}, {"id": "C9.7.12", "lines": ["She seized its head, intent upon the meat,", "And meant to make the serpent hers to eat."]}, {"id": "C9.7.13", "lines": ["A servant snatched the serpent from her grasp;", "The others held her in their steady clasp."]}, {"id": "C9.7.14", "lines": ["They drew her from that unclean place to rest,", "And brought her to her chamber, still distressed."]}, {"id": "C9.7.15", "lines": ["They settled her upon her usual seat,", "Then brought a tray and readied food to eat."]}, {"id": "C9.7.16", "lines": ["She ate her fill; then underneath they spread", "Soft cloths to make a comfortable bed."]}, {"id": "C9.7.17", "lines": ["She slept, relieved of grief, her pain subdued;", "Her stomach emptied; hunger was renewed."]}, {"id": "C9.7.18", "lines": ["They brought her food in plenty for relief;", "She ate, released from anguish and from grief."]}, {"id": "C9.7.19", "lines": ["Her senses came again; to Zal she cried:", "“Your counsel, Zal, with wisdom was allied;"]}, {"id": "C9.7.20", "lines": ["Whoever lacks both food and sleep will find", "That grief and feasting merge within the mind."]}, {"id": "C9.7.21", "lines": ["Our son has gone, and we shall follow too;", "We trust the Maker’s justice, firm and true.”"]}, {"id": "C9.7.22", "lines": ["To all the poor she gave her hidden store,", "And prayed to God, His mercy to implore:"]}, {"id": "C9.7.23", "lines": ["“O Lord beyond all name and place and reign,", "Cleanse matchless Rostam’s soul of every stain."]}, {"id": "C9.7.24", "lines": ["Grant him in Paradise a place to stay,", "And fruit from seed he sowed in earthly clay.”"]}, {"id": "C9.8.1", "lines": ["Since matchless Rostam’s life has reached its close,", "I turn to tell the tale that next arose."]}, {"id": "C9.8.2", "lines": ["When fortune’s face to old Goshtasb grew dim,", "He summoned wise Jamasp to come to him."]}, {"id": "C9.8.3", "lines": ["He said: “Through Esfandiyar’s fate I bear", "A heart scorched raw by mourning and despair."]}, {"id": "C9.8.4", "lines": ["Not one day of my life has passed in cheer;", "A vengeful star has made my days severe."]}, {"id": "C9.8.5", "lines": ["Now after me Bahman shall hold the throne;", "Let Bishutan his inmost thoughts be shown."]}, {"id": "C9.8.6", "lines": ["Do not reject his orders or betray", "Your covenant with him, nor turn away."]}, {"id": "C9.8.7", "lines": ["Let each of you stand by to guide his reign;", "He merits throne and crown and the domain.”"]}, {"id": "C9.8.8", "lines": ["He gave the keys of treasure to his heir,", "And drew a cold sigh from his deep despair."]}, {"id": "C9.8.9", "lines": ["He said: “My work is done, my course is sped;", "The water now has risen past my head."]}, {"id": "C9.8.10", "lines": ["For six score years I ruled without a peer,", "No equal rose to match me, far or near."]}, {"id": "C9.8.11", "lines": ["Now stir yourself; be just to all your folk,", "And let your justice lift your sorrow’s yoke."]}, {"id": "C9.8.12", "lines": ["Keep wise men close to you and make them glad;", "Make dark the world for those whose aims are bad."]}, {"id": "C9.8.13", "lines": ["Be upright; let your truthfulness prevail,", "And turn from crooked ways where virtues fail."]}, {"id": "C9.8.14", "lines": ["I yield the throne, the diadem, the gold,", "After the toil and suffering borne of old.”"]}, {"id": "C9.8.15", "lines": ["He spoke; his days were done, his moment passed;", "No vanished hour returned from out the past."]}, {"id": "C9.8.16", "lines": ["Of shiz and ivory they built his tomb,", "His crown hung high above the throne’s still gloom."]}, {"id": "C9.8.17", "lines": ["Such was his share of treasure, toil, and gain:", "Past sweets and nush-daru came poison’s pain."]}, {"id": "C9.8.18", "lines": ["If life is this, what pleasure can it bring?", "Death makes the poor the equal of the king."]}, {"id": "C9.8.19", "lines": ["Enjoy your earnings, shun all evil ways,", "And heed the counsel of the wise always."]}, {"id": "C9.8.20", "lines": ["Our fellow traveler passed; we still remain,", "Much have we read of past events and pain."]}, {"id": "C9.8.21", "lines": ["The traveler reached the journey’s resting place;", "The seeker found the path he sought to trace."]}, {"id": "C9.8.22", "lines": ["Hear what the wise old sage would have you know:", "Only your goodness helps you as you go."]}, {"id": "C9.8.23", "lines": ["Now Bahman’s deeds shall claim our toil and thought;", "To wise Bishutan let our sense be brought."]}]}, {"id": "D1", "title": "The Reign of Bahman, Son of Esfandiyar", "summary": "5 sections · 167 couplets", "path": "/poem/d1/", "couplets": [{"id": "D1.1.1", "lines": ["Bahman ascended his grandfather’s throne;", "He donned his belt, and made his bounty known."]}, {"id": "D1.1.2", "lines": ["He gave the troops both silver coins and gold,", "And many lands and borders theirs to hold."]}, {"id": "D1.1.3", "lines": ["He called the wise and noble to his gate,", "With chiefs and trusted officers of state."]}, {"id": "D1.1.4", "lines": ["He said, “Give ear, both youthful men and old,", "All those whose minds are steadfast, wise, and bold."]}, {"id": "D1.1.5", "lines": ["You know how Esfandiyar met his end,", "And all the good and ill the heavens send."]}, {"id": "D1.1.6", "lines": ["You know the deeds of Rostam while alive,", "And what the sorcerer Zal dared contrive."]}, {"id": "D1.1.7", "lines": ["Now Faramarz, in public or apart,", "Seeks vengeance on us, nursing it at heart."]}, {"id": "D1.1.8", "lines": ["Pain racks my head; my heart is drenched in gore;", "I think of retribution, nothing more."]}, {"id": "D1.1.9", "lines": ["Nush Azar and Mehr-e-Nush, that fearless pair,", "Gave death no thought, nor let it bring them care."]}, {"id": "D1.1.10", "lines": ["And great Esfandiyar, whose presence cast", "New life upon the nobles’ age now past,"]}, {"id": "D1.1.11", "lines": ["Was killed in Zabul; beasts both wild and tame", "Were lost in grief and wandered without aim."]}, {"id": "D1.1.12", "lines": ["The painted figures in the palace weep", "For him whose blood has brought us grief so deep,"]}, {"id": "D1.1.13", "lines": ["And for our famed young warriors who lie dead,", "Our horsemen, for whose blood these tears are shed."]}, {"id": "D1.1.14", "lines": ["No noble man of high ancestral fame", "Will cast his lineage in the pit of shame."]}, {"id": "D1.1.15", "lines": ["He takes Fereydoon’s deeds to be his guide,", "A sky of happy fortune, far and wide."]}, {"id": "D1.1.16", "lines": ["For Jamshid’s blood, Fereydoon brought disgrace", "On Zahhak, and wiped out his glory’s trace."]}, {"id": "D1.1.17", "lines": ["From Amol, Manuchehr led troops of might", "To distant Chin, great Salm and Tur to fight."]}, {"id": "D1.1.18", "lines": ["For his grandfather’s blood he piled the slain", "As high as mountains rising from the plain."]}, {"id": "D1.1.19", "lines": ["When Kay Khosrow struck Afrasiab, the land", "Became a sea of blood on every hand."]}, {"id": "D1.1.20", "lines": ["My father likewise avenged Lohrasp’s fall;", "My own case follows theirs, and echoes all."]}, {"id": "D1.1.21", "lines": ["For his slain father, Faramarz arose,", "His head raised toward the sun that shines and glows."]}, {"id": "D1.1.22", "lines": ["He marched on Kabul, seeking Rostam’s due,", "And leveled all its lands as he passed through."]}, {"id": "D1.1.23", "lines": ["The earth was lost in blood where men lay dead;", "Across their bodies charging horses sped."]}, {"id": "D1.1.24", "lines": ["For vengeance, none has greater cause to fight;", "I charge both elephant and lion in might."]}, {"id": "D1.1.25", "lines": ["Count all the famous horsemen of the earth:", "None like Esfandiyar has come to birth."]}, {"id": "D1.1.26", "lines": ["What counsel can you offer to your king?", "Strive for a plan that happy ends may bring.”"]}, {"id": "D1.1.27", "lines": ["The army heard the words its monarch spoke;", "His well-wishers stood there among the folk."]}, {"id": "D1.1.28", "lines": ["They cried, “We are your servants, bound to you;", "Our hearts are filled with love both deep and true."]}, {"id": "D1.1.29", "lines": ["You know the past more fully than the rest,", "And stand in strength above the warriors’ best."]}, {"id": "D1.1.30", "lines": ["Do as you wish, if what you choose will bring", "You royal farr and fame as reigning king."]}, {"id": "D1.1.31", "lines": ["No man will turn against your high command;", "Who dares to break the pledge by which we stand?”"]}, {"id": "D1.1.32", "lines": ["When Bahman heard their words, his anger burned;", "With sharper zeal to vengeance now he turned."]}, {"id": "D1.1.33", "lines": ["To march on Sistan, they prepared their array;", "Resolved on this, they rose and moved away."]}, {"id": "D1.1.34", "lines": ["At dawn tabiras thundered far and high;", "The army’s dust made ebony the sky."]}, {"id": "D1.1.35", "lines": ["A hundred thousand horsemen rode that day,", "All swordsmen, in that army on its way."]}, {"id": "D1.2.1", "lines": ["When Bahman reached the Hirmund’s riverside,", "His heart was fixed on vengeance as his guide."]}, {"id": "D1.2.2", "lines": ["He chose a noble envoy from his court,", "And gave him words of stern and grave import:"]}, {"id": "D1.2.3", "lines": ["“Go tell old Zal my days are steeped in pain", "For great Esfandiyar, my father slain,"]}, {"id": "D1.2.4", "lines": ["And for Nush Azar, Mehr-e-Nush, noble pair,", "Two princes born of lineage blessed and fair."]}, {"id": "D1.2.5", "lines": ["I shall sate ancient vengeance for the dead;", "All Zabul’s streams with blood shall be stained red.”"]}, {"id": "D1.2.6", "lines": ["The envoy came before the aged chief,", "And spoke; his words plunged Zal in bitter grief."]}, {"id": "D1.2.7", "lines": ["He answered, “If the Shah will contemplate", "Esfandiyar’s deeds and his appointed fate,"]}, {"id": "D1.2.8", "lines": ["Then he will know that destiny so meant;", "My heart was broken by that dark event."]}, {"id": "D1.2.9", "lines": ["Through good and ill, you stood among us here;", "From me you gained and found no harm to fear."]}, {"id": "D1.2.10", "lines": ["Great Rostam served your father at command,", "And kept his pledge with heart and loyal hand."]}, {"id": "D1.2.11", "lines": ["Your father, that great prince of noble name,", "Grew fierce and stubborn when his last hour came."]}, {"id": "D1.2.12", "lines": ["The forest’s lion, dragon, all must fall;", "The claws of Time will close upon them all."]}, {"id": "D1.2.13", "lines": ["Recall great Sahm, renowned in every age;", "You know his deeds, the battles he would wage."]}, {"id": "D1.2.14", "lines": ["Then came the time when Rostam drew his blade,", "The sharpened sword that at his waist was laid."]}, {"id": "D1.2.15", "lines": ["Before your fathers, think how he would fight,", "When honor was at stake, with all his might."]}, {"id": "D1.2.16", "lines": ["He was your servant, guardian of your days,", "Among your troops a man of worth and praise."]}, {"id": "D1.2.17", "lines": ["Now Rostam lies beneath the mournful ground,", "And grief has spread through Zabul all around."]}, {"id": "D1.2.18", "lines": ["If you will end this quarrel and relent,", "And weigh our deeds with generous intent,"]}, {"id": "D1.2.19", "lines": ["Then come in friendship, free of wrath and rage,", "And soothe with love the sorrows of this age."]}, {"id": "D1.2.20", "lines": ["The wealth of Sahm and Dastan in these stores,", "The golden belts and trappings, shall be yours."]}, {"id": "D1.2.21", "lines": ["When you arrive, I shall bring all I keep;", "You are the Shah; your chiefs, a flock of sheep.”"]}, {"id": "D1.2.22", "lines": ["He gave the envoy robes and minted gold,", "A noble horse, and treasures from his hold."]}, {"id": "D1.2.23", "lines": ["The envoy then returned and told the king", "Each word of Zal and every offered thing."]}, {"id": "D1.2.24", "lines": ["But Bahman spurned the plea that Zal had sent;", "His heart remained on blood and vengeance bent."]}, {"id": "D1.2.25", "lines": ["He entered, full of pain and vengeful thought,", "And breathed cold sighs for all that grief had brought."]}, {"id": "D1.2.26", "lines": ["Zal went to meet him; with the elder came", "The chiefs of Sistan, men of noble name."]}, {"id": "D1.2.27", "lines": ["He reached the Shah, dismounted from his steed,", "And bowed before him as the court decreed."]}, {"id": "D1.2.28", "lines": ["He said, “This is the time to grant release", "From grief and rancor; let the heart find peace."]}, {"id": "D1.2.29", "lines": ["Here Dastan, son of Sahm, before you stands,", "Humbled, with walking staff in aged hands."]}, {"id": "D1.2.30", "lines": ["Remember how we guarded you in youth,", "And dealt with you in loyalty and truth."]}, {"id": "D1.2.31", "lines": ["Forgive; let bygone deeds be left unsaid;", "Seek virtue; seek no vengeance for the dead.”"]}, {"id": "D1.2.32", "lines": ["But Bahman’s fury mounted at the plea;", "Zal’s former standing ebbed for all to see."]}, {"id": "D1.2.33", "lines": ["He bound Zal’s feet, and would not lend an ear", "To minister or treasurer standing near."]}, {"id": "D1.2.34", "lines": ["They loaded camel after camel, packed", "From Dastan’s palace, all its treasures sacked:"]}, {"id": "D1.2.35", "lines": ["With gold coins, uncut gems, and thrones arrayed,", "And all the rugs that in the halls were laid;"]}, {"id": "D1.2.36", "lines": ["With gold and silver ware, with crowns of gold,", "With earrings, belts, and riches from the hold;"]}, {"id": "D1.2.37", "lines": ["With Arab steeds in trappings bright with gilt,", "And Indian blades sheathed golden to the hilt;"]}, {"id": "D1.2.38", "lines": ["With garments, bags of silver, camphor white,", "And musk; all things of value, great or slight."]}, {"id": "D1.2.39", "lines": ["All this had Rostam gained with toil and care,", "From kings and mighty chiefs, their treasures rare."]}, {"id": "D1.2.40", "lines": ["He gave all Zabul up to plunder then,", "And crowns and bags of coin to noble men."]}, {"id": "D1.3.1", "lines": ["At Bost, Faramarz mourned his grandfather’s plight,", "And bound himself to vengeance and the fight."]}, {"id": "D1.3.2", "lines": ["He marched against the Shah, his troops arrayed,", "Recalling battles fought by Rostam’s blade."]}, {"id": "D1.3.3", "lines": ["When Bahman heard the news upon his throne,", "His anger rose; his fury now was shown."]}, {"id": "D1.3.4", "lines": ["He packed the baggage, and his horsemen rode", "Two weeks without a halt along the road."]}, {"id": "D1.3.5", "lines": ["Then karnays blared and Indian bells rang round;", "The mountains’ hearts seemed lifted from the ground."]}, {"id": "D1.3.6", "lines": ["The sky grew black beneath the arrows’ flight,", "As shafts descended and extinguished light."]}, {"id": "D1.3.7", "lines": ["The crash of axes and the bows’ sharp cry", "Made earth shake more than all the trembling sky."]}, {"id": "D1.3.8", "lines": ["For three full days and nights the battle raged;", "By sun and moon the bitter war was waged."]}, {"id": "D1.3.9", "lines": ["The swords and gorzes rained upon the field;", "The sky to clouds of army dust would yield."]}, {"id": "D1.3.10", "lines": ["Upon the fourth, a wind brought sudden night,", "As swirling darkness blotted out the light."]}, {"id": "D1.3.11", "lines": ["Against Faramarz now the wind blew strong;", "The Shah rejoiced to see it sweep along."]}, {"id": "D1.3.12", "lines": ["Behind the dust he charged with sword to slay,", "And brought the terrors of the final day."]}, {"id": "D1.3.13", "lines": ["The men of Bost, Zabul’s advancing band,", "And Kabul’s swordsmen could no longer stand."]}, {"id": "D1.3.14", "lines": ["No mounted warrior stayed upon that ground;", "No famous chief among their ranks was found."]}, {"id": "D1.3.15", "lines": ["The greatest chiefs lost hope and turned to flight,", "And left brave Faramarz exposed to fight."]}, {"id": "D1.3.16", "lines": ["The slain lay mountain-high; the field was strewn", "With dead from both the armies, heaped and hewn."]}, {"id": "D1.3.17", "lines": ["Yet with a handful of his warriors by,", "Brave Faramarz stood firm and would not fly."]}, {"id": "D1.3.18", "lines": ["He bore the wounds of many a sharp blade,", "Fearless lion, born of lions, he stayed."]}, {"id": "D1.3.19", "lines": ["He knew this was affliction’s bitter day;", "Time’s snare and Fate’s trap held him as their prey."]}, {"id": "D1.3.20", "lines": ["He said, “The dragon’s breath surrounds me here;", "No path of safety from this place is clear."]}, {"id": "D1.3.21", "lines": ["My gorz and sword shall leave, with all their power,", "Their mark upon this ground till Judgment’s hour.”"]}, {"id": "D1.3.22", "lines": ["He charged the center of the army’s might,", "And drew close to the Shah amid the fight."]}, {"id": "D1.3.23", "lines": ["He struck the heads from Indian chiefs of fame,", "From mighty champions, men of noble name."]}, {"id": "D1.3.24", "lines": ["The warriors saw, and anger filled their breast;", "With all the army, hard on him they pressed."]}, {"id": "D1.3.25", "lines": ["The horsemen hemmed him in, a circling ring;", "Each sword wound made him feel its bitter sting."]}, {"id": "D1.3.26", "lines": ["His horse grew weak beneath the arrows’ rain,", "And fell face-first, helpless upon the plain."]}, {"id": "D1.3.27", "lines": ["Time held a heavy gorz within its hand,", "And struck the mighty warriors of the land."]}, {"id": "D1.3.28", "lines": ["From loss of blood his senses slipped away;", "He stood there still; no word had he to say."]}, {"id": "D1.3.29", "lines": ["A roaring lion, when his strength was past,", "Seized that famed warrior, held him captive fast."]}, {"id": "D1.3.30", "lines": ["Before the Shah, they brought him from the fight;", "The Shah gazed for a while, still set on spite."]}, {"id": "D1.3.31", "lines": ["He ordered that a gibbet be prepared;", "No hope of life, no quarter, he declared."]}, {"id": "D1.3.32", "lines": ["They hung his elephantine frame on high,", "Alive and headfirst, underneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D1.3.33", "lines": ["Then Ardeshir, in vengeance for the slain,", "Had him shot dead beneath the arrows’ rain."]}, {"id": "D1.4.1", "lines": ["Wise Bishutan, the minister of state,", "Grew sick at heart from bloodshed and from hate."]}, {"id": "D1.4.2", "lines": ["He rose before the Shah and said, “Take heed:", "Let justice curb the punishments decreed."]}, {"id": "D1.4.3", "lines": ["If vengeance was the aim you battled for,", "Your seeking brought you loss; now seek no more."]}, {"id": "D1.4.4", "lines": ["Command no further plunder, blood, or cries;", "Do not approve the grief that fills the skies."]}, {"id": "D1.4.5", "lines": ["Fear God, feel shame before us, guard your ways,", "And mark the turns of fortune through your days."]}, {"id": "D1.4.6", "lines": ["It lifts one man to heaven’s highest sphere,", "Then casts another down to grief and fear."]}, {"id": "D1.4.7", "lines": ["Your father’s march to Nimruz was not made", "To find a coffin where he would be laid."]}, {"id": "D1.4.8", "lines": ["Nor did great Rostam hunt on Kabul’s plain", "To perish in a pit and there remain."]}, {"id": "D1.4.9", "lines": ["While you retain your crown and royal worth,", "Do not oppress the nobles of the earth."]}, {"id": "D1.4.10", "lines": ["For should the son of Sahm, in bonds and pain,", "Cry out to God against your lawless reign,"]}, {"id": "D1.4.11", "lines": ["Your lucky star will fail to ease your plight", "When he calls God to judge and set things right."]}, {"id": "D1.4.12", "lines": ["Remember Rostam, guardian of the crown,", "Who donned his belt for toil and won renown."]}, {"id": "D1.4.13", "lines": ["You owe this crown to Rostam’s mighty hand,", "Not Goshtasb’s nor Esfandiyar’s command."]}, {"id": "D1.4.14", "lines": ["From Kay Qobad through Kay Khosrow’s reign,", "Recall the kings his sword helped to sustain."]}, {"id": "D1.4.15", "lines": ["Their greatness rested on his battle-blade;", "Beneath their feet the world’s wide lands were laid."]}, {"id": "D1.4.16", "lines": ["Release old Zal and let your anger cease;", "Turn now from cruelty and choose true peace.”"]}, {"id": "D1.4.17", "lines": ["The Shah heard Bishutan’s wise words; his mind", "Felt deep remorse for deeds now left behind."]}, {"id": "D1.4.18", "lines": ["A cry rose from the royal tent to all:", "“O Pahlevans, heed justice and its call."]}, {"id": "D1.4.19", "lines": ["Prepare to turn for home; let bloodshed cease,", "And plunder end; depart this place in peace.”"]}, {"id": "D1.4.20", "lines": ["He ordered Zal’s bound feet released that day,", "And much advice was given on his way."]}, {"id": "D1.4.21", "lines": ["At Bishutan’s request, within a tomb", "They laid slain Faramarz amid the gloom."]}, {"id": "D1.4.22", "lines": ["When Zal returned at last to his own door,", "His wife Rudabeh’s tears began to pour."]}, {"id": "D1.4.23", "lines": ["She cried, “Alas for Rostam, brave and bold,", "Descendant of great Nariman of old!"]}, {"id": "D1.4.24", "lines": ["While you still lived, who knew Goshtasb had reigned,", "Or that the world beneath his rule remained?"]}, {"id": "D1.4.25", "lines": ["Your treasure plundered, Zal in bonds of dread,", "Your son, by arrows slain, lies cold and dead."]}, {"id": "D1.4.26", "lines": ["May no one see such days of grief and need;", "May earth be bare of Esfandiyar’s seed!”"]}, {"id": "D1.4.27", "lines": ["Her cries of mourning spread across the plain,", "And reached both Bishutan and Bahman’s train."]}, {"id": "D1.4.28", "lines": ["The minister grew pale to hear her cries,", "Then spoke to Bahman, prudent still and wise:"]}, {"id": "D1.4.29", "lines": ["“O youthful Shah, whose crown is newly bright,", "Like the young moon that climbs the vault of night,"]}, {"id": "D1.4.30", "lines": ["At dawn lead all your forces from this place;", "A grave and difficult affair we face."]}, {"id": "D1.4.31", "lines": ["May evil eyes not touch your crown or reign;", "May all your days be feasts, and free of pain."]}, {"id": "D1.4.32", "lines": ["Within brave Zal’s own house, the Shah should stay", "No longer; let him take the homeward way.”"]}, {"id": "D1.4.33", "lines": ["When dawn poured gold across the mountain’s side,", "Tabiras called the march both far and wide."]}, {"id": "D1.4.34", "lines": ["From Zabul toward Iran he led his men,", "Back to its city’s people once again."]}, {"id": "D1.4.35", "lines": ["He rested, sat upon the throne with cheer,", "And ruled with custom and with justice clear."]}, {"id": "D1.4.36", "lines": ["He gave the poor vast wealth and coins of gold;", "Some hearts were glad; in others, grief took hold."]}, {"id": "D1.5.1", "lines": ["King Bahman had a son, a lion in might;", "He named him Sasan, dauntless in the fight."]}, {"id": "D1.5.2", "lines": ["He had a daughter, Homahyi the wise,", "Accomplished, prudent, lovely in all eyes. "]}, {"id": "D1.5.3", "lines": ["They called her Chehrzad, wondrous to his sight;", "Her father looked upon her with delight."]}, {"id": "D1.5.4", "lines": ["He took his lovely daughter as his bride,", "As Pahlavi belief then justified."]}, {"id": "D1.5.5", "lines": ["Fair Homahyi, bright as the moon at night,", "Conceived a child by Bahman, lord of might."]}, {"id": "D1.5.6", "lines": ["Six months had passed; her heart was weighed with woe;", "The king fell ill to see her burdened so."]}, {"id": "D1.5.7", "lines": ["Oppressed by pain, the king could scarcely stand;", "He called Homahyi near at his command."]}, {"id": "D1.5.8", "lines": ["He summoned all the nobles of the land,", "And seated them in honor at his hand."]}, {"id": "D1.5.9", "lines": ["He said, “This chaste Chehrzad has had to bear", "A life with little joy to ease her care."]}, {"id": "D1.5.10", "lines": ["To her I leave the crown and royal claim,", "The troops and treasures vested in her name."]}, {"id": "D1.5.11", "lines": ["I name her heir and name the child she bears", "To take the crown and all its royal cares."]}, {"id": "D1.5.12", "lines": ["Whether the child shall prove a girl or boy,", "The crown shall be that child’s to wear with joy.”"]}, {"id": "D1.5.13", "lines": ["When young Sasan had heard what Bahman said,", "The world grew dark, and hope within him fled."]}, {"id": "D1.5.14", "lines": ["Three days and nights, a leopard in his flight,", "He fled Iran in shame at such a slight."]}, {"id": "D1.5.15", "lines": ["He hurried to Nishapur, sore at heart,", "And from his father chose to live apart."]}, {"id": "D1.5.16", "lines": ["He wed a woman born of noble race,", "And cherished her with heartfelt love and grace."]}, {"id": "D1.5.17", "lines": ["He told no living soul of royal birth,", "Nor that his kin had ruled the breadth of earth."]}, {"id": "D1.5.18", "lines": ["His virtuous wife then bore a noble child,", "Of Bahman’s line, through Sasan, now exiled."]}, {"id": "D1.5.19", "lines": ["He named the child Sasan; his time ran fast,", "And soon the father breathed his very last."]}, {"id": "D1.5.20", "lines": ["From childhood into manhood, year by year,", "He lived in want, with little cause for cheer."]}, {"id": "D1.5.21", "lines": ["He took the king of Nishapur’s great flocks,", "Across broad plains and up the mountain rocks."]}, {"id": "D1.5.22", "lines": ["He served the crown as shepherd in those lands,", "And was content with work on plains and sands."]}, {"id": "D1.5.23", "lines": ["Now I return to Homahyi’s domain,", "When Bahman died and left to her the reign."]}]}, {"id": "D2", "title": "Homahyi and the Founding of Darab’s Line", "summary": "7 sections · 320 couplets", "path": "/poem/d2/", "couplets": [{"id": "D2.1.1", "lines": ["King Bahman died of sickness; sorrow fell", "Upon his daughter, caught within its spell."]}, {"id": "D2.1.2", "lines": ["She mourned for Bahman, sunk in grief profound,", "And long remained by bitter sorrow bound."]}, {"id": "D2.1.3", "lines": ["Fair Homahyi then set the crown in place,", "And gave the realm new customs by her grace."]}, {"id": "D2.1.4", "lines": ["She called the troops and nobles to her court,", "And opened royal vaults for their support."]}, {"id": "D2.1.5", "lines": ["In wisdom and in justice she surpassed", "Her father; and great wealth her rule amassed."]}, {"id": "D2.1.6", "lines": ["She blessed her throne, and blessed the crown now worn,", "And prayed her ill-wishers’ hearts might be torn."]}, {"id": "D2.1.7", "lines": ["She swore that none should suffer from her might,", "And all her deeds should serve the good and right."]}, {"id": "D2.1.8", "lines": ["She vowed the poor should prosper, free from need,", "Who toiled to earn the bread on which they feed."]}, {"id": "D2.1.9", "lines": ["She left the wealthy nobles in their place,", "And laid no added burden on their race."]}, {"id": "D2.1.10", "lines": ["When childbirth neared, she kept it from the town,", "And from the troops who served her royal crown."]}, {"id": "D2.1.11", "lines": ["She loved the splendor of the crown she wore,", "And wished to rule the kingdom as before."]}, {"id": "D2.1.12", "lines": ["She bore a son in secrecy and fear,", "Concealing him from all who gathered near."]}, {"id": "D2.1.13", "lines": ["She found a nurse of noble birth and name,", "Both pure and modest, free from any blame."]}, {"id": "D2.1.14", "lines": ["In secret, she entrusted to her care", "The tender shoot who was the rightful heir."]}, {"id": "D2.1.15", "lines": ["When courtiers asked if she had borne a son,", "She said the child had died, and there was none."]}, {"id": "D2.1.16", "lines": ["She wore the royal crown in triumph bright,", "And sat upon the throne with great delight."]}, {"id": "D2.1.17", "lines": ["Wherever hostile chiefs rose to rebel,", "She sent her armies out their force to quell."]}, {"id": "D2.1.18", "lines": ["She learned of all that passed throughout the realm,", "And weighed both good and evil at the helm."]}, {"id": "D2.1.19", "lines": ["She sought whatever justice would require,", "And watched the realm with zeal that burned like fire."]}, {"id": "D2.1.20", "lines": ["Her justice made the realm secure from fear;", "Her name alone was praised and held most dear."]}, {"id": "D2.1.21", "lines": ["Eight months went by, and as the infant grew,", "His face recalled King Bahman to her view."]}, {"id": "D2.1.22", "lines": ["She called a carpenter of proven skill,", "Who chose fine wood to work the royal will."]}, {"id": "D2.1.23", "lines": ["They made a coffer out of dry wood, tight,", "And coated it with musk and pitch outright."]}, {"id": "D2.1.24", "lines": ["They lined it thick with soft Roman brocade,", "And glue and wax upon its outside laid."]}, {"id": "D2.1.25", "lines": ["They spread a bed inside the coffer, deep,", "And filled its midst with pearls, a precious heap."]}, {"id": "D2.1.26", "lines": ["They poured in heaps of gold with radiant sheen,", "With carnelians and emeralds between."]}, {"id": "D2.1.27", "lines": ["A royal jewel, splendid, large, and bright,", "They bound upon his arm and fixed it tight."]}, {"id": "D2.1.28", "lines": ["And when the little child lay fast asleep,", "The faithful nurse began to mourn and weep."]}, {"id": "D2.1.29", "lines": ["She laid him in the coffer, soft and warm,", "And wrapped in silk from Chin his little form."]}, {"id": "D2.1.30", "lines": ["They sealed the coffer’s narrow lid with skill,", "With glue, wax, musk, and ambergris to fill."]}, {"id": "D2.1.31", "lines": ["At midnight, hushed, they bore the box; none stirred;", "No lips disturbed the silence with a word."]}, {"id": "D2.1.32", "lines": ["They bore it from Homahyi, out of sight,", "And cast it in Farat that very night."]}, {"id": "D2.1.33", "lines": ["Two men went hurrying beside the flow,", "To learn what fate the child would undergo."]}, {"id": "D2.1.34", "lines": ["Like some small ship, the coffer rode the tide;", "The watchers followed down the riverside."]}, {"id": "D2.1.35", "lines": ["At dawn, the coffer stopped within a stream,", "As mountain heights began to catch the gleam."]}, {"id": "D2.1.36", "lines": ["There stood a washing-stone within the flow;", "The worksite left a narrow way to go."]}, {"id": "D2.1.37", "lines": ["One washerman beheld the floating chest,", "And rushed to lift it from its place of rest."]}, {"id": "D2.1.38", "lines": ["He raised the lid and lifted cloths aside,", "Astonished at the wonders stored inside."]}, {"id": "D2.1.39", "lines": ["He wrapped the coffer, hurried on his way,", "His heart with hope and joy as bright as day."]}, {"id": "D2.1.40", "lines": ["One watcher hastened back to tell the queen", "Of box and washerman, all he had seen."]}, {"id": "D2.1.41", "lines": ["The watchful queen gave orders in reply,", "“Guard well this secret; let no rumor fly.”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.1", "lines": ["When from the stream the washerman came late,", "His wife reproached him for his work’s poor state."]}, {"id": "D2.2.2", "lines": ["“The clothes are still half-wet!” his wife declared;", "“Who pays for work so carelessly prepared?”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.3", "lines": ["His heart was crushed by grief he could not hide,", "For their own little son had lately died."]}, {"id": "D2.2.4", "lines": ["She tore her cheeks and wept in bitter grief,", "And found no hope of comfort or relief."]}, {"id": "D2.2.5", "lines": ["He said, “Take heart, and let your mourning cease;", "Such cries are unbecoming; be at peace."]}, {"id": "D2.2.6", "lines": ["If you can guard a secret in your breast,", "I shall tell you what must not be confessed."]}, {"id": "D2.2.7", "lines": ["I beat the clothes upon the stone each day,", "Then rinse them where the waters flow away."]}, {"id": "D2.2.8", "lines": ["Within that channel stood a coffer sealed;", "Inside it lay a child, from sight concealed."]}, {"id": "D2.2.9", "lines": ["When I raise the lid, you shall see his face,", "And long to hold the child in your embrace."]}, {"id": "D2.2.10", "lines": ["Our own dear son now lies among the dead;", "Let this fair child be cherished in his stead."]}, {"id": "D2.2.11", "lines": ["He brings a fortune gathered at his side,", "In gems and brocade richly beautified.”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.12", "lines": ["He laid the clothes upon the ground, then drew", "The coffer’s narrow lid aside from view."]}, {"id": "D2.2.13", "lines": ["The washerwoman saw the child and prayed,", "Astonished at the sight the box displayed."]}, {"id": "D2.2.14", "lines": ["His radiant face shone from the silken bed;", "He looked like Ardeshir, the king now dead."]}, {"id": "D2.2.15", "lines": ["His pillow gleamed with pearls of costly sheen,", "His feet with carnelian and emerald green."]}, {"id": "D2.2.16", "lines": ["Gold coins lay on his left in yellow light;", "And many rubies glittered on his right."]}, {"id": "D2.2.17", "lines": ["She gave her breast; he drank, and at the sight", "The lovely infant filled her with delight."]}, {"id": "D2.2.18", "lines": ["The lovely child and treasures round him lay", "Before her eyes and drove her grief away."]}, {"id": "D2.2.19", "lines": ["The washerman then said, “From this day on,", "We guard this child until our lives are gone."]}, {"id": "D2.2.20", "lines": ["This child shall win distinction and renown,", "And in this world shall wear a royal crown.”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.21", "lines": ["The woman loved the boy as her own son,", "And tenderly she raised the little one."]}, {"id": "D2.2.22", "lines": ["Upon the third day, Darab was his name,", "For from the running water’s midst he came."]}, {"id": "D2.2.23", "lines": ["One day the woman spoke of wealth revealed,", "The gold and gems the coffer had concealed."]}, {"id": "D2.2.24", "lines": ["She asked her husband, “What should now be done?", "How shall we use the wealth beside our son?”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.25", "lines": ["He said, “Dear wife, those jewels concealed away", "Are dust to me while hidden there they stay."]}, {"id": "D2.2.26", "lines": ["Far better that we leave this town behind,", "And find release from hardships of this kind."]}, {"id": "D2.2.27", "lines": ["We shall find a town where none know our name,", "In want or wealth, in honor or in shame.”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.28", "lines": ["At dawn he packed their load and took the road,", "Without a backward thought for their abode."]}, {"id": "D2.2.29", "lines": ["They bore the child, held close in their embrace,", "And packed just gold and gems that took small space."]}, {"id": "D2.2.30", "lines": ["They journeyed sixty farsangs on their way,", "And in another town resolved to stay."]}, {"id": "D2.2.31", "lines": ["They settled in that town, no longer poor,", "As wealthy householders, their means secure."]}, {"id": "D2.2.32", "lines": ["A man of standing in that town was known;", "To him he sent a jewel of his own."]}, {"id": "D2.2.33", "lines": ["For jewels he took fine clothing, silver, gold,", "Till scarcely any gems remained unsold."]}, {"id": "D2.2.34", "lines": ["One crimson jewel in the house remained,", "The last of all the coffer once contained."]}, {"id": "D2.2.35", "lines": ["His wife, with wealth to guide her, spoke one day,", "And to her husband had these words to say:"]}, {"id": "D2.2.36", "lines": ["“We have no need to work as once before;", "You now are rich; pursue your trade no more.”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.37", "lines": ["He said, “My worthy wife, a trade is best;", "In all our work, it stands before the rest."]}, {"id": "D2.2.38", "lines": ["Take care of young Darab and guard him well;", "What he may yet become, no tongue can tell.”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.39", "lines": ["They cherished him and kept him in their sight,", "So no fierce wind could harm that child so bright."]}, {"id": "D2.2.40", "lines": ["The heavens wheeled, and as the boy grew tall,", "His strength and noble bearing outshone all."]}, {"id": "D2.2.41", "lines": ["He wrestled older boys upon the street,", "None matched his strength; he never met defeat."]}, {"id": "D2.2.42", "lines": ["The children came together in a crowd;", "Before his strength, their power was quickly cowed."]}, {"id": "D2.2.43", "lines": ["The washerman cried out in deep dismay;", "His trade grew worse through Darab’s reckless play."]}, {"id": "D2.2.44", "lines": ["He said, “Now beat these clothes upon the stone;", "No shame attends a trade you make your own.”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.45", "lines": ["When young Darab would flee the washer’s side,", "With tears like blood the grieving father cried."]}, {"id": "D2.2.46", "lines": ["Two-thirds of all his time was spent in quest,", "Through town and country, asking without rest."]}, {"id": "D2.2.47", "lines": ["He found him practicing the bow, intent,", "And all his long, hard searching was well spent."]}, {"id": "D2.2.48", "lines": ["A thumbstall fitted tightly on his hand;", "With chest spread wide, he took an archer’s stand."]}, {"id": "D2.2.49", "lines": ["He took the bow and spoke in accents cold,", "“You troublesome, contentious child so bold!"]}, {"id": "D2.2.50", "lines": ["Why do you hunger after bow and dart?", "Why nurse mistrust so young within your heart?”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.51", "lines": ["Darab replied, “O father, why obscure", "My flowing water, which was clear and pure?"]}, {"id": "D2.2.52", "lines": ["First send me to the teachers skilled and wise,", "To learn the lore that they so greatly prize."]}, {"id": "D2.2.53", "lines": ["Once I have learned the Zand-Avesta’s lore,", "Then name my trade; ask nothing else before.”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.54", "lines": ["With much reproach, he sent him to be taught;", "The learned teachers gave the lore he sought."]}, {"id": "D2.2.55", "lines": ["He gained in learning, grew in noble pride,", "And cast distress and harsh reproach aside."]}, {"id": "D2.2.56", "lines": ["He told his foster father, “I shall fail", "At washing; in it I cannot prevail."]}, {"id": "D2.2.57", "lines": ["Set your fond heart at rest; let worry cease,", "And let me learn the horseman’s trade in peace.”"]}, {"id": "D2.2.58", "lines": ["The washerman found a noble of fame,", "Skilled with the reins, a man of worthy name."]}, {"id": "D2.2.59", "lines": ["He placed the boy with him for many a day,", "To learn the skills a horseman must display."]}, {"id": "D2.2.60", "lines": ["He learned to ride, to wield both lance and shield,", "And turn his charger on the training field."]}, {"id": "D2.2.61", "lines": ["He shot the bow and played the polo game,", "Sought skill, and shunned men bent on deeds of shame."]}, {"id": "D2.2.62", "lines": ["So great his skill became that in a fight,", "No leopard could contend against his might."]}, {"id": "D2.3.1", "lines": ["Darab approached the washerman one day:", "“I cannot hide the thoughts I have to say. "]}, {"id": "D2.3.2", "lines": ["No natural affection draws me near,", "Nor does my face resemble yours, I fear. "]}, {"id": "D2.3.3", "lines": ["Why call me son and seat me at your side,", "Here in your shop?” the wondering youth replied."]}, {"id": "D2.3.4", "lines": ["The washer answered, wounded by the slight,", "“Is this the payment for my toil and plight?"]}, {"id": "D2.3.5", "lines": ["If your proud spirit stands above my own,", "Go ask your mother what to her is known.”"]}, {"id": "D2.3.6", "lines": ["One day the washer hurried from the door,", "To cleanse the clothes upon the river’s shore."]}, {"id": "D2.3.7", "lines": ["Darab secured the house and barred the way,", "Then reached to take the sword that ready lay."]}, {"id": "D2.3.8", "lines": ["He said, “O washerwoman, do not feign;", "Tell me the truth and make the matter plain."]}, {"id": "D2.3.9", "lines": ["Who am I to you? And what blood is mine?", "Why does the washer keep me? Name my line.”"]}, {"id": "D2.3.10", "lines": ["The woman, terrified, implored his grace,", "And called upon the Maker in that place:"]}, {"id": "D2.3.11", "lines": ["“Do not spill out my blood upon this ground,", "And every hidden truth shall be unbound.”"]}, {"id": "D2.3.12", "lines": ["She told him all; no secret did she hide,", "Nor in a single matter turned aside."]}, {"id": "D2.3.13", "lines": ["She spoke of coffer, infant, coins of gold,", "And royal jewels the box had held of old."]}, {"id": "D2.3.14", "lines": ["She said, “We worked beneath a humble yoke,", "Not born of mighty stock, but working folk."]}, {"id": "D2.3.15", "lines": ["All that we have we owe to you instead;", "Through you has risen our once lowly head."]}, {"id": "D2.3.16", "lines": ["We are your servants; tell us what to do;", "Our lives and all we own belong to you.”"]}, {"id": "D2.3.17", "lines": ["Darab stood silent, shaken by the tale,", "And pondered what its wonders might entail."]}, {"id": "D2.3.18", "lines": ["He asked her, “Does some portion still remain,", "Or did the washer spend it all in vain?"]}, {"id": "D2.3.19", "lines": ["Is there enough to buy a worthy steed,", "In this my helpless state and bitter need?”"]}, {"id": "D2.3.20", "lines": ["She said, “More remains: a ruby, precious stone,", "With coins and gardens, fields and lands we own.”"]}, {"id": "D2.3.21", "lines": ["She gave him all the coins within her hoard;", "The jewel still lay safe, where it was stored."]}, {"id": "D2.3.22", "lines": ["He bought a valued horse, a saddle low", "In price, a gorz, a kamand fit to throw."]}, {"id": "D2.3.23", "lines": ["There lived a prudent chief on frontier land,", "Esteemed and wise, a guide in high command."]}, {"id": "D2.3.24", "lines": ["Darab approached him, troubled and oppressed,", "With brooding thoughts that gave his heart no rest."]}, {"id": "D2.3.25", "lines": ["He held Darab in honor from that day,", "And kept disgrace and hardship far away."]}, {"id": "D2.3.26", "lines": ["A Roman legion crossed the frontier ground,", "And ravaged all the borderlands around."]}, {"id": "D2.3.27", "lines": ["The border chief was slaughtered in the fight,", "His broken army scattered in its flight."]}, {"id": "D2.3.28", "lines": ["News reached Homahyi of the Roman band,", "And how its troops had stepped upon her land."]}, {"id": "D2.3.29", "lines": ["A chief named Rashnavad was at the head;", "From sepahbods he sprang, a leader bred."]}, {"id": "D2.3.30", "lines": ["She bade him march with all his force on Rum,", "And with the sword bring down the Romans’ doom."]}, {"id": "D2.3.31", "lines": ["Then Rashnavad called warriors to array,", "Prepared the muster ground and gave their pay."]}, {"id": "D2.3.32", "lines": ["Darab rejoiced to hear, and when he came", "Before the chief, enrolled his own fair name."]}, {"id": "D2.3.33", "lines": ["From every side the troops began to throng;", "From every road fresh armies marched along."]}, {"id": "D2.3.34", "lines": ["Queen Homahyi left her palace gate,", "With frontier lords whose wisdom lent them weight."]}, {"id": "D2.3.35", "lines": ["The troops passed by for counting, line by line;", "Their names and rolls were checked by her design."]}, {"id": "D2.3.36", "lines": ["She stayed a while upon that broad terrain;", "She watched the mounted squadrons cross the plain."]}, {"id": "D2.3.37", "lines": ["She saw Darab, majestic in his height,", "A steel gorz at his shoulder gleaming bright."]}, {"id": "D2.3.38", "lines": ["His presence seemed to fill the mustering field,", "As though the earth beneath his stride must yield."]}, {"id": "D2.3.39", "lines": ["His noble form and lovely face impressed", "The queen; a mother’s milk flowed from her breast."]}, {"id": "D2.3.40", "lines": ["She asked, “From where has come this warrior bold,", "So tall and straight, so noble to behold?"]}, {"id": "D2.3.41", "lines": ["So proud, so strong; yet look at what he bears:", "How strange for such a man the arms he wears.”"]}, {"id": "D2.3.42", "lines": ["Darab appeared majestic to her sight;", "The army, too, she viewed with full delight."]}, {"id": "D2.3.43", "lines": ["She chose by stars a fitting time to go,", "For her sepahbod marching on the foe."]}, {"id": "D2.3.44", "lines": ["When all the warriors’ counsels were as one,", "They led the army out, its march begun."]}, {"id": "D2.3.45", "lines": ["She sent attentive spies along their track,", "To bring reports of good and evil back."]}, {"id": "D2.3.46", "lines": ["She knew the army’s fortunes, good and ill,", "And doubts of coming trouble thus grew still."]}, {"id": "D2.3.47", "lines": ["From stage to stage the army kept its pace;", "Troops filled the earth, and black grew heaven’s face."]}, {"id": "D2.4.1", "lines": ["A mighty wind arose; the storm ahead", "Had filled the sepahbod Rashnavad with dread."]}, {"id": "D2.4.2", "lines": ["As lightning flashed and thunder roared around,", "A dark and drenching rain poured to the ground."]}, {"id": "D2.4.3", "lines": ["The soldiers scattered through the driving rain,", "And pitched their tents for shelter on the plain."]}, {"id": "D2.4.4", "lines": ["Darab, distressed beneath the stormy blast,", "Looked for a refuge till the storm had passed."]}, {"id": "D2.4.5", "lines": ["He had no tent, no curtained place to hide,", "No fellow traveler, no one for his guide."]}, {"id": "D2.4.6", "lines": ["He searched across the bleak and empty ground,", "And there a great but ruined arch he found."]}, {"id": "D2.4.7", "lines": ["A lofty vault stood damaged, worn, and old,", "Within a royal dwelling’s ruined hold."]}, {"id": "D2.4.8", "lines": ["Beneath that battered arch he lay alone,", "Without a friend or comrade of his own."]}, {"id": "D2.4.9", "lines": ["The sepahbod rode through camp to watch his men,", "And passed beside the ruined archway then."]}, {"id": "D2.4.10", "lines": ["A cry rose from the ruin, loud and clear;", "Its dreadful sound assailed his heart with fear:"]}, {"id": "D2.4.11", "lines": ["“O ancient vault, stand firm and guard from harm", "Iran’s Shah, sleeping sheltered by your arm."]}, {"id": "D2.4.12", "lines": ["Without a tent or friend to share his woes,", "He came beneath your arch to seek repose.”"]}, {"id": "D2.4.13", "lines": ["Then Rashnavad thought, “What is this I hear?", "Is thunder or the roaring wind so near?”"]}, {"id": "D2.4.14", "lines": ["Again the ruined hall gave forth a cry:", "“O vault, do not close wisdom’s watchful eye."]}, {"id": "D2.4.15", "lines": ["Shah Ardeshir’s own son is sheltered here;", "Remember this; the rain you must not fear.”"]}, {"id": "D2.4.16", "lines": ["A third time came the warning, sharp and loud,", "The sepahbod with awe and fear was cowed."]}, {"id": "D2.4.17", "lines": ["He asked a sage, “What can this wonder be?", "Let someone go beneath the arch and see."]}, {"id": "D2.4.18", "lines": ["Discover who lies sleeping on that ground,", "And who in such distress is to be found.”"]}, {"id": "D2.4.19", "lines": ["They found a youth whose wisdom shone in grace,", "A Pahlevan in bearing and in face."]}, {"id": "D2.4.20", "lines": ["His horse and garments streamed beneath the rain;", "The dark earth was the bed where he had lain."]}, {"id": "D2.4.21", "lines": ["They told the chief of what had met their sight;", "His heart was stirred to hear the youth’s sad plight."]}, {"id": "D2.4.22", "lines": ["He bade them, “Call the youth without delay;", "Who could endure a cry heard in this way?”"]}, {"id": "D2.4.23", "lines": ["They went and cried, “O sleeper on the ground,", "Awake! Arise from sleep so deep and sound.”"]}, {"id": "D2.4.24", "lines": ["Darab arose and mounted in their sight;", "At once the ancient arch fell from its height."]}, {"id": "D2.4.25", "lines": ["When Rashnavad beheld that wondrous feat,", "He studied Darab from his head to feet."]}, {"id": "D2.4.26", "lines": ["He cried, “A wonder beyond thought and speech!", "No greater marvel lies in fancy’s reach.”"]}, {"id": "D2.4.27", "lines": ["He hastened with him to his tent nearby,", "“O just and only God!” his fervent cry."]}, {"id": "D2.4.28", "lines": ["“No one has seen such wonder, nor been told", "Of such by men experienced and old.”"]}, {"id": "D2.4.29", "lines": ["He ordered clothes and had a fair place made", "Within the great pavilion’s ample shade."]}, {"id": "D2.4.30", "lines": ["A mountain-high fire filled the air with haze;", "Musk, aloeswood, and ambergris ablaze."]}, {"id": "D2.4.31", "lines": ["When sunlight crowned the mountains, once again", "The chief prepared to march and lead his men."]}, {"id": "D2.4.32", "lines": ["He bade a guiding Mobad fetch and lead", "A set of robes, a noble Arab steed,"]}, {"id": "D2.4.33", "lines": ["With golden trappings, and a belt to wear,", "A sword within a golden scabbard fair."]}, {"id": "D2.4.34", "lines": ["He gave the gifts to Darab, then began:", "“O lion-hearted, fame-seeking young man,"]}, {"id": "D2.4.35", "lines": ["What man are you? What country gave you birth?", "Tell me the truth of all your life on earth.”"]}, {"id": "D2.4.36", "lines": ["Darab disclosed the past, no longer sealed,", "And all its hidden matters he revealed."]}, {"id": "D2.4.37", "lines": ["As she had told him, so he now made known", "The woman’s tale, each detail she had shown."]}, {"id": "D2.4.38", "lines": ["Of chest and ruby on his arm, he told,", "Of brocade at his side and coins of gold."]}, {"id": "D2.4.39", "lines": ["His sleep, his rest, his food, his hidden days;", "He told the chief of all his former ways."]}, {"id": "D2.4.40", "lines": ["Then Rashnavad sent someone on his way:", "“Fly like the wind,” he ordered, “do not stay."]}, {"id": "D2.4.41", "lines": ["Bring wife and washerman, and jewel too;", "Make all the speed you can in coming through.”"]}, {"id": "D2.5.1", "lines": ["He spoke, then led his army on its way;", "From borderlands toward Rum they marched that day."]}, {"id": "D2.5.2", "lines": ["He placed Darab in charge of scouts ahead;", "The vanguard, armed with poisoned spearheads, sped."]}, {"id": "D2.5.3", "lines": ["The Roman scouts advanced across the plain;", "This country’s guardians rode to meet their train."]}, {"id": "D2.5.4", "lines": ["The armies met; the battle dust was stirred,", "And rose on high as clashing arms were heard."]}, {"id": "D2.5.5", "lines": ["The two sides closed and mingled in the fray;", "Their blood ran like a river through the clay."]}, {"id": "D2.5.6", "lines": ["When young Darab beheld the Roman force,", "He charged like a fierce wolf upon his horse."]}, {"id": "D2.5.7", "lines": ["So many Romans fell beneath his blade,", "It seemed that Heaven’s hand each stroke had made."]}, {"id": "D2.5.8", "lines": ["He struck, a lion fierce in his attack;", "A dragon bore a sea-beast on its back."]}, {"id": "D2.5.9", "lines": ["He charged, a leopard through the Roman line,", "And plunged among their warriors in decline."]}, {"id": "D2.5.10", "lines": ["The earth became a sea of Roman blood;", "His sword had led him through that crimson flood."]}, {"id": "D2.5.11", "lines": ["Returning from the victory he won,", "He stood before the chief, the battle done."]}, {"id": "D2.5.12", "lines": ["Then Rashnavad bestowed the highest praise:", "“May you be with the Shah’s troops all your days."]}, {"id": "D2.5.13", "lines": ["When we return from Rum, our battles past,", "And reach this land with all the troops amassed,"]}, {"id": "D2.5.14", "lines": ["The Shah shall grant you favors of her own:", "Fine horses, treasure, and a crown and throne.”"]}, {"id": "D2.5.15", "lines": ["That night they then set all the troops in place,", "And readied horsemen that the fight would face."]}, {"id": "D2.5.16", "lines": ["At dawn, when sunlight touched the gloomy height,", "The earth shone like a lamp with brilliant light."]}, {"id": "D2.5.17", "lines": ["The armies met; their dust rose in the sky,", "And darkened all the sun that shone on high."]}, {"id": "D2.5.18", "lines": ["Then young Darab swept forward at full speed,", "And urged still faster on his mighty steed."]}, {"id": "D2.5.19", "lines": ["No Roman champion dared withstand his hand;", "Their foremost lines collapsed across the land."]}, {"id": "D2.5.20", "lines": ["He plunged, a wolf, into their center’s heart,", "And drove the mighty Roman ranks apart."]}, {"id": "D2.5.21", "lines": ["Then wheeling to the right, he pressed the fight,", "And seized their arms and baggage in his might."]}, {"id": "D2.5.22", "lines": ["He tore through Roman legions, rank by rank;", "No champion found safety on the flank."]}, {"id": "D2.5.23", "lines": ["The men of Iran followed in his wake,", "Like lions rushing where the lines might break."]}, {"id": "D2.5.24", "lines": ["They slew so many Romans, spilling blood", "That mixed with earth and turned the field to mud."]}, {"id": "D2.5.25", "lines": ["He slew full forty prelates in that fight,", "And came, a cross clutched in his fist held tight."]}, {"id": "D2.5.26", "lines": ["When Rashnavad beheld what he had done,", "His heart rejoiced to see the field was won."]}, {"id": "D2.5.27", "lines": ["He blessed Darab and praised him with delight,", "And added love to praise of all his might."]}, {"id": "D2.5.28", "lines": ["Then night descended on the fading fight,", "And all withdrew as earth grew black as night."]}, {"id": "D2.5.29", "lines": ["In the defeated camp, the sepahbod found", "His rest, and there his girdle he unbound."]}, {"id": "D2.5.30", "lines": ["That night he shared all the wealth for their toil,", "And decked the army with the battle’s spoil."]}, {"id": "D2.5.31", "lines": ["He sent a messenger to Darab, brave,", "And said, “O lion-heart who comes to save,"]}, {"id": "D2.5.32", "lines": ["Choose what you wish from all the wealth we gained,", "And what may serve you best of all obtained."]}, {"id": "D2.5.33", "lines": ["Keep what you please, and let your heart decide", "What gifts your hand shall willingly divide."]}, {"id": "D2.5.34", "lines": ["Give what you do not wish to keep or claim;", "You pass the lord of Rakhsh himself in fame.”"]}, {"id": "D2.5.35", "lines": ["Darab received the message with delight,", "But chose one spear from all the spoils in sight."]}, {"id": "D2.5.36", "lines": ["He sent the other treasures back and said,", "“May victory and fortune crown your head.”"]}, {"id": "D2.5.37", "lines": ["The western sun sank down beyond the field,", "And heaven’s black brocade the light concealed."]}, {"id": "D2.5.38", "lines": ["A watch of that dark night had passed away;", "Across the plain the scattered vanguard lay."]}, {"id": "D2.5.39", "lines": ["The watchmen’s cries like earthquakes shook the night,", "Like some free lion roaring in its might."]}, {"id": "D2.5.40", "lines": ["When morning raised its golden shield on high,", "The warriors woke beneath the brightening sky."]}, {"id": "D2.5.41", "lines": ["The warriors of Iran prepared to ride,", "And chased Rum’s shattered legions far and wide."]}, {"id": "D2.5.42", "lines": ["Their sharpened swords set all the land afire,", "And Roman cities burned beneath their ire."]}, {"id": "D2.5.43", "lines": ["From Rum and Romans rose the dust of dread;", "No thought of home remained as people fled."]}, {"id": "D2.5.44", "lines": ["A mournful cry arose through Roman lands,", "As folk forsook their homes before those bands."]}, {"id": "D2.5.45", "lines": ["War pressed on Caesar till his world grew small;", "His nobles’ faces paled before it all."]}, {"id": "D2.5.46", "lines": ["At last to Rashnavad an envoy came:", "“Let justice guide your course and be your aim."]}, {"id": "D2.5.47", "lines": ["Those once so warlike now have had their fill;", "Rum’s fallen fortune bows beneath your will."]}, {"id": "D2.5.48", "lines": ["If tribute is your wish, we shall obey,", "And make a treaty new with you this day.”"]}, {"id": "D2.6.1", "lines": ["Then Caesar sent them gifts of every kind,", "With slaves and purses in the wealth consigned."]}, {"id": "D2.6.2", "lines": ["The sepahbod received the offered treasure,", "The gold and gems beyond all count and measure."]}, {"id": "D2.6.3", "lines": ["Iran’s men journeyed home with joy and pride;", "Darab and Rashnavad rode side by side."]}, {"id": "D2.6.4", "lines": ["They reached the ruined archway on their way,", "Where once the sleeping youth in shelter lay."]}, {"id": "D2.6.5", "lines": ["The washer couple brought the ruby, late,", "Afraid of shame and fearful of their fate."]}, {"id": "D2.6.6", "lines": ["He summoned them; they prayed for God’s own aid,", "And came before him, troubled and afraid."]}, {"id": "D2.6.7", "lines": ["Rashnavad asked the pair, when they appeared,", "How they had found the infant they had reared."]}, {"id": "D2.6.8", "lines": ["They spoke about the coffer and the gem,", "And all that had befallen both of them."]}, {"id": "D2.6.9", "lines": ["They told of toil in rearing him, laid bare", "The times and the burdens they had to bear."]}, {"id": "D2.6.10", "lines": ["The sepahbod said, “May joy attend your days;", "May triumph and glad fortune light your ways."]}, {"id": "D2.6.11", "lines": ["No man has seen such wonders, young or old,", "Nor heard the like by ancient Mobadan told.”"]}, {"id": "D2.6.12", "lines": ["Then Rashnavad took pen and scroll in hand,", "And wrote to Homahyi across the land:"]}, {"id": "D2.6.13", "lines": ["How young Darab had slept beneath the vault,", "And how he fought amid the fierce assault;"]}, {"id": "D2.6.14", "lines": ["What he had heard of how the coffer bore", "The child, with all its wealth and precious store;"]}, {"id": "D2.6.15", "lines": ["The unseen voice that sounded through the blast,", "And his distress to hear it as he passed;"]}, {"id": "D2.6.16", "lines": ["And how he mounted; then the arch gave way", "And fell in ruins where he lately lay."]}, {"id": "D2.6.17", "lines": ["He wrote it all, and so the scroll was sent", "With one who sped like wind, and on he went."]}, {"id": "D2.6.18", "lines": ["He gave the ruby, adding this command:", "“Ride like the wind and lay it in her hand.”"]}, {"id": "D2.6.19", "lines": ["The courier reached the court at breakneck speed,", "And brought the ruby as the chief decreed."]}, {"id": "D2.6.20", "lines": ["He gave the scroll and told what he had heard", "From Rashnavad, recounting every word."]}, {"id": "D2.6.21", "lines": ["She read the scroll and saw the ruby gleam;", "From lashes to her cheeks her tears would stream."]}, {"id": "D2.6.22", "lines": ["She knew the youth who, on the muster day,", "Had caught her gaze amid the bright array,"]}, {"id": "D2.6.23", "lines": ["The glorious youth, as fair as spring, whose form", "Rose lofty over all the muster’s swarm,"]}, {"id": "D2.6.24", "lines": ["Was truly her own son, her precious shoot,", "A flourishing young branch from her own root."]}, {"id": "D2.6.25", "lines": ["She wept, and told the man who brought the scroll,", "“The world has gained a lord to take control."]}, {"id": "D2.6.26", "lines": ["My heart was never free from grief or fear,", "Whenever thoughts of crown and throne drew near."]}, {"id": "D2.6.27", "lines": ["I feared the God whose kindness I betrayed,", "Ungrateful for the gift His hand had made."]}, {"id": "D2.6.28", "lines": ["God gave a son I failed to prize or save;", "I cast him into Farat’s flowing wave."]}, {"id": "D2.6.29", "lines": ["This jewel upon his little arm I tied;", "A father gone; his son is cast aside."]}, {"id": "D2.6.30", "lines": ["Through Rashnavad, whose name and steps are blessed,", "God gives me back the son I once possessed.”"]}, {"id": "D2.6.31", "lines": ["From golden treasuries the coins were poured;", "Wine, musk, and jewels were mingled with the hoard."]}, {"id": "D2.6.32", "lines": ["She helped the poor; and when a week had passed,", "She opened up the silver she amassed."]}, {"id": "D2.6.33", "lines": ["For fire-temples, scripture, holy ways,", "The Zand-Avesta, Sadeh’s festive blaze,"]}, {"id": "D2.6.34", "lines": ["She gave more treasure, spreading far and wide", "Her gifts through every land on every side."]}, {"id": "D2.6.35", "lines": ["At dawn upon the tenth day, to her throne", "The sepahbod came, and not on his own."]}, {"id": "D2.6.36", "lines": ["Darab and all the nobles who came too", "Told none upon that ride of what they knew."]}, {"id": "D2.7.1", "lines": ["The queen then closed the curtains of the hall,", "And for a week received no guest at all."]}, {"id": "D2.7.2", "lines": ["She ordered that a golden throne be made,", "Its two seats with turquoise and lapis inlaid."]}, {"id": "D2.7.3", "lines": ["One royal crown with gems, two armlets bright,", "A jeweled torque she gathered for the rite."]}, {"id": "D2.7.4", "lines": ["A royal robe was woven through with gold,", "And gems of many kinds adorned each fold."]}, {"id": "D2.7.5", "lines": ["An astrologer sat before the queen,", "And chose a day from signs in heaven seen."]}, {"id": "D2.7.6", "lines": ["In Bahman’s month, on Shahrivar’s bright day,", "At dawn she called Darab without delay."]}, {"id": "D2.7.7", "lines": ["She filled one cup with rubies rich and bright,", "The next with yellow gems that caught the light."]}, {"id": "D2.7.8", "lines": ["When young Darab approached the palace gate,", "She came from far to bow before his state."]}, {"id": "D2.7.9", "lines": ["She scattered royal gems before her son,", "While blood-like tears into her lap would run."]}, {"id": "D2.7.10", "lines": ["She kissed her son and touched his youthful face,", "Then held him in a mother’s warm embrace."]}, {"id": "D2.7.11", "lines": ["She led him to the golden throne and gazed,", "In wonder at a joy so great, amazed."]}, {"id": "D2.7.12", "lines": ["He sat upon the throne; she came to stand", "Before her son, the royal crown in hand."]}, {"id": "D2.7.13", "lines": ["She set it on his head and sent the word:", "His crowning’s joyful news the whole world heard."]}, {"id": "D2.7.14", "lines": ["His crown shone bright; she asked her royal son", "To pardon all the wrong that she had done."]}, {"id": "D2.7.15", "lines": ["She told Darab, “Let all that passed away", "Be like the wind that does not pause or stay."]}, {"id": "D2.7.16", "lines": ["Youth, wealth, a woman’s judgment led her astray;", "A father dead, no guide to show the way."]}, {"id": "D2.7.17", "lines": ["Forgive her wrong; let blame upon her cease;", "May you sit only on a throne in peace.”"]}, {"id": "D2.7.18", "lines": ["The youth replied, “Your noble birth is known;", "The Pahlevans’ great lineage is your own."]}, {"id": "D2.7.19", "lines": ["No wonder if the heart should seethe with pain;", "For one wrong, why should such a cry remain?"]}, {"id": "D2.7.20", "lines": ["May God, who made the world, be pleased with you;", "May grief like smoke your foes’ dark hearts imbue."]}, {"id": "D2.7.21", "lines": ["These words of mine shall live from age to age,", "And never grow outworn upon the page.”"]}, {"id": "D2.7.22", "lines": ["Then Homahyi prayed over her young heir:", "“While earth endures, may you the crown still wear.”"]}, {"id": "D2.7.23", "lines": ["She bade the chief Mobad summon the wise,", "From every province under Iran’s skies."]}, {"id": "D2.7.24", "lines": ["She summoned all the chiefs of martial fame,", "The lions armed with swords, to hail his name."]}, {"id": "D2.7.25", "lines": ["She bade them bless him, king of all the land,", "And all acclaimed him at her own command."]}, {"id": "D2.7.26", "lines": ["They blessed his crown, then scattered jewels bright", "Upon the throne, a shower of colored light."]}, {"id": "D2.7.27", "lines": ["Homahyi then revealed what she had done,", "And all the anguish suffered for her son."]}, {"id": "D2.7.28", "lines": ["She said, “Of mighty Bahman’s royal line,", "This prince remains its sole surviving sign."]}, {"id": "D2.7.29", "lines": ["You must obey whatever he commands;", "He is the shepherd of the warrior bands."]}, {"id": "D2.7.30", "lines": ["His are the greatness, diadem, and throne;", "Rely on him; his strength shall be your own.”"]}, {"id": "D2.7.31", "lines": ["A shout of joy arose throughout the hall,", "To see that royal branch rise over all."]}, {"id": "D2.7.32", "lines": ["They scattered jewels till none could see the king,", "So great the wealth that every hand would bring."]}, {"id": "D2.7.33", "lines": ["The world rejoiced in justice, law, and grace,", "And former pain in memory had no place."]}, {"id": "D2.7.34", "lines": ["The queen addressed the sages she had sought:", "“O wise and noble men, heed now my thought."]}, {"id": "D2.7.35", "lines": ["For thirty-two full years I bore the strain;", "I yield him throne and treasure of my reign."]}, {"id": "D2.7.36", "lines": ["Rejoice, submit to all that he shall say,", "And let his royal word direct your way.”"]}, {"id": "D2.7.37", "lines": ["Darab rejoiced upon the Kayanian throne,", "And calmly wore the crown that was his own."]}, {"id": "D2.7.38", "lines": ["His foster parents hurried to his side;", "“O youthful king!” with joyful words they cried."]}, {"id": "D2.7.39", "lines": ["“Be blessed upon the Kayanian seat;", "May all your foes be servants at your feet.”"]}, {"id": "D2.7.40", "lines": ["Darab then bade them bring ten bags of gold,", "And precious gems, too costly to be sold,"]}, {"id": "D2.7.41", "lines": ["And every kind of cloth, five lengths of each,", "For him whose toil lay past the reach of speech."]}, {"id": "D2.7.42", "lines": ["He said, “O washerman, keep thought alive;", "Let watchful wisdom in your spirit thrive."]}, {"id": "D2.7.43", "lines": ["You may yet find a coffer in the flow;", "A child like Darab in its depths may show.”"]}, {"id": "D2.7.44", "lines": ["They left the hall with blessings on the king,", "And praise of Iran’s Shah their lips would sing."]}, {"id": "D2.7.45", "lines": ["The washer’s star had passed; to work he went,", "And bore the clothes afield, on washing bent."]}]}, {"id": "D3", "title": "Darab", "summary": "4 sections · 135 couplets", "path": "/poem/d3/", "couplets": [{"id": "D3.1.1", "lines": ["Now on the Maker of the earth we call,", "To bless the sovereign who rules over all."]}, {"id": "D3.1.2", "lines": ["Abul-Qasim, the king with face of light,", "Adorned the world with love and justice bright."]}, {"id": "D3.1.3", "lines": ["In goodness and in truth he sets his course;", "His justice never wanes or loses force."]}, {"id": "D3.1.4", "lines": ["May Mahmud’s crown make bright the world around;", "May all his days be praised as just and sound."]}, {"id": "D3.1.5", "lines": ["May youth remain with him through every stage,", "And life endure beyond the bounds of age."]}, {"id": "D3.1.6", "lines": ["What do the old dehqan’s own verses say", "Of Goshtasb and Ardeshir in their day?"]}, {"id": "D3.1.7", "lines": ["Of pure-minded lords and Darab’s renown,", "And Homahyi’s ways and counsel for the crown?"]}, {"id": "D3.1.8", "lines": ["When young Darab assumed the Kayanian throne,", "He girded himself and made his bounty known."]}, {"id": "D3.1.9", "lines": ["He spoke to Mobadan, nobles of the land,", "And all the wise who gathered at command:"]}, {"id": "D3.1.10", "lines": ["“I sought no realm through toil or justice shown;", "God crowned my head and made the realm my own."]}, {"id": "D3.1.11", "lines": ["No man has seen a stranger turn of fate", "Than mine, which raised me to this royal state."]}, {"id": "D3.1.12", "lines": ["Justice alone repays the gift He gave;", "May men still bless me, laid within the grave."]}, {"id": "D3.1.13", "lines": ["Let none endure my burdens or excess,", "Nor fill my treasury through their distress."]}, {"id": "D3.1.14", "lines": ["May justice bring abundance through my reign,", "And joy to all my folk in each domain.”"]}, {"id": "D3.1.15", "lines": ["Then out of Hindustan and Rum’s far shore,", "From every wealthy march and distant door,"]}, {"id": "D3.1.16", "lines": ["Ambassadors arrived with gifts in hand,", "And sought the king’s good favor for their land."]}, {"id": "D3.1.17", "lines": ["One day he went to see his horses roam,", "A herd left free beneath the heavens’ dome."]}, {"id": "D3.1.18", "lines": ["As he passed from the lowlands toward the height,", "A deep and boundless lake appeared in sight."]}, {"id": "D3.1.19", "lines": ["From India and the western Caesar’s lands,", "He summoned men of proven skill in bands."]}, {"id": "D3.1.20", "lines": ["They were to seek a passage for the tide,", "And send a river forth to every side."]}, {"id": "D3.1.21", "lines": ["A skilled man breached the barrier to the flow;", "The king decreed a thriving town should grow."]}, {"id": "D3.1.22", "lines": ["And when the mighty outer wall was done,", "They named it Darabgird beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "D3.1.23", "lines": ["He lit the sacred Fire on mountain height;", "Its worshippers came thronging to the rite."]}, {"id": "D3.1.24", "lines": ["Artisans skilled in every craft and art", "Were summoned there to build its thriving heart."]}, {"id": "D3.1.25", "lines": ["The Shah sent countless troops to each frontier,", "To guard the world from foes and banish fear."]}, {"id": "D3.1.26", "lines": ["He freed the land from dread of every foe,", "And split the hearts of those who wished him woe."]}, {"id": "D3.2.1", "lines": ["A hundred thousand Arabs rose in might,", "Spear-bearing horsemen, seasoned in the fight."]}, {"id": "D3.2.2", "lines": ["Shaeeb, of Qutayb’s line, led forth the band,", "A chief renowned, with horsemen at command."]}, {"id": "D3.2.3", "lines": ["The king of kings led Iran’s vast array,", "Whose countless columns filled the crowded way."]}, {"id": "D3.2.4", "lines": ["The armies met; the world grew dark, austere,", "With men who sought the clash of sword and spear."]}, {"id": "D3.2.5", "lines": ["Earth could not bear the armies on the plain;", "No room to move was left in that domain."]}, {"id": "D3.2.6", "lines": ["The rain of shafts and javelins was a flood;", "The earth became a spreading pool of blood."]}, {"id": "D3.2.7", "lines": ["On every side the cries of battle rose,", "While heaps of slain bore witness to their blows."]}, {"id": "D3.2.8", "lines": ["Three days and nights they fought upon the plain;", "Time pressed the wounded, stricken there in pain."]}, {"id": "D3.2.9", "lines": ["Upon the fourth, the Arabs turned in flight,", "And left the field of battle in the night."]}, {"id": "D3.2.10", "lines": ["Their chief Shaeeb had fallen on the field;", "The Arabs’ darkened fortune now was sealed."]}, {"id": "D3.2.11", "lines": ["With wooden saddles, many steeds were found,", "With spears and helmets, war coats on the ground."]}, {"id": "D3.2.12", "lines": ["The fleeing men had left them, every one,", "To Darab, king of earth, Homahyi’s son."]}, {"id": "D3.2.13", "lines": ["He shared the horses, crowns, and swords as spoil,", "With helmets, to reward the army’s toil."]}, {"id": "D3.2.14", "lines": ["He chose a frontier chief from his array,", "Who understood what Arab tongues would say."]}, {"id": "D3.2.15", "lines": ["He sent him to demand the past year’s due,", "And from the plain the present year’s share too."]}, {"id": "D3.3.1", "lines": ["Darab left the spearmen’s plain with his band,", "To strike the wealthy Romans in their land."]}, {"id": "D3.3.2", "lines": ["Faylaqus ruled the Romans, and his word", "Won Sus’s king, who with his will concurred."]}, {"id": "D3.3.3", "lines": ["A letter told him, “Homahyi’s son is near;", "His countless ranks have marched to meet you here.”"]}, {"id": "D3.3.4", "lines": ["The Roman monarch heard the news and cast", "His mind back to the distant days long past."]}, {"id": "D3.3.5", "lines": ["He mustered Amuriyah’s men of might,", "Its famed and seasoned legions for the fight."]}, {"id": "D3.3.6", "lines": ["The Roman nobles left their lands behind,", "As great Darab advanced with war in mind."]}, {"id": "D3.3.7", "lines": ["From Amuriyah marched the Roman king,", "With every chief and man that he could bring."]}, {"id": "D3.3.8", "lines": ["Two mighty battles filled the three-day span;", "Upon the fourth, at dawn, the rout began."]}, {"id": "D3.3.9", "lines": ["Faylaqus and his fleeing legions sped,", "No Roman cap or helmet on a head."]}, {"id": "D3.3.10", "lines": ["They took the women and the young away;", "By sword and arrow many died that day."]}, {"id": "D3.3.11", "lines": ["The Romans fled to town from Darab’s might;", "Two thirds of those who marched returned in flight."]}, {"id": "D3.3.12", "lines": ["The rest were dead or wounded from the fray,", "With spears still lodged against their backs where they lay."]}, {"id": "D3.3.13", "lines": ["In Amuriyah’s fortress they remained;", "And many there the pledge of safety gained."]}, {"id": "D3.3.14", "lines": ["An envoy came from Faylaqus, keen and wise,", "Who knew how fortunes fall and how they rise."]}, {"id": "D3.3.15", "lines": ["He brought two chests with royal jewels bright,", "With purses, slaves, and gifts for royal sight."]}, {"id": "D3.3.16", "lines": ["His message ran: “I ask the one God’s aid;", "By Him alone may all my steps be swayed."]}, {"id": "D3.3.17", "lines": ["May warfare end in feasting and delight;", "May we not turn our hearts again to fight."]}, {"id": "D3.3.18", "lines": ["Let truth and human kindness guide our way;", "For wrong and injury bring on decay."]}, {"id": "D3.3.19", "lines": ["Should you advance on Amuriyah’s seat,", "And seek to cast my city at your feet,"]}, {"id": "D3.3.20", "lines": ["My heart would burn; deep shame would stain my name,", "And I would turn from feasts to war and flame."]}, {"id": "D3.3.21", "lines": ["Then act as kings should act, with royal grace;", "Your father was a king; you hold his place.”"]}, {"id": "D3.3.22", "lines": ["Darab convened the nobles of the state,", "And laid the whole before them for debate."]}, {"id": "D3.3.23", "lines": ["He asked, “What counsel have you for your lord,", "Since Caesar seeks his honor thus restored?”"]}, {"id": "D3.3.24", "lines": ["The chieftains blessed the Shah as one, and cried:", "“O pure of faith, discerning king and guide,"]}, {"id": "D3.3.25", "lines": ["The king of kings stands highest in the state;", "Let your own wisdom now determine fate."]}, {"id": "D3.3.26", "lines": ["That famous western monarch has a child,", "Tall as a cypress, spring-faced, fair and mild."]}, {"id": "D3.3.27", "lines": ["In Chin no image-maker sees her kind;", "Among the fair she shines, a gem refined."]}, {"id": "D3.3.28", "lines": ["Should you behold her, she would please your sight,", "A cypress in your garden, tall and bright.”"]}, {"id": "D3.3.29", "lines": ["The Shah recalled the envoy to his side,", "And told him what his counselors had replied:"]}, {"id": "D3.3.30", "lines": ["“Go tell your master, ‘If you wish to stand", "With crown and honor in your native land,"]}, {"id": "D3.3.31", "lines": ["Behind your curtains dwells a daughter fair,", "The crown that all the world’s great ladies wear."]}, {"id": "D3.3.32", "lines": ["Her name is fair Nahid, renowned and bright,", "Who sits upon a golden throne of light."]}, {"id": "D3.3.33", "lines": ["Send her with Rum’s own tribute to my hand,", "If you would keep all hardship from your land.’”"]}, {"id": "D3.3.34", "lines": ["The envoy heard and hastened from the court,", "To bear the Shah’s reply in full report."]}, {"id": "D3.3.35", "lines": ["Faylaqus and his legions hailed the plan:", "His son-in-law would be so great a man."]}, {"id": "D3.3.36", "lines": ["They spoke of tribute and the yearly share,", "And weighed the burden Rum had strength to bear."]}, {"id": "D3.3.37", "lines": ["They fixed the yearly tribute to be paid", "In Mehr, as king and Caesar’s pact was made:"]}, {"id": "D3.3.38", "lines": ["Ten thousand eggs of gold, of casting rare,", "Each with a royal jewel to form a pair."]}, {"id": "D3.3.39", "lines": ["Each golden egg weighed forty mithqals true,", "With one rich gem to meet the payment due."]}, {"id": "D3.3.40", "lines": ["He shared the levy through the Roman land,", "Among the frontier chiefs who held command."]}, {"id": "D3.3.41", "lines": ["The city’s sages bore a portion fair,", "With all who in that country held a share."]}, {"id": "D3.3.42", "lines": ["He bade them clear and ready all the road;", "They cast aside all other care and load."]}, {"id": "D3.3.43", "lines": ["The nobles chosen to escort the bride", "Brought royal gifts and treasures at her side."]}, {"id": "D3.3.44", "lines": ["They built a golden litter, richly wrought,", "And crowned attendants to its side were brought."]}, {"id": "D3.3.45", "lines": ["Ten mules bore loads of Roman cloth of gold,", "With jeweled figures bright on every fold."]}, {"id": "D3.3.46", "lines": ["Three hundred camel-loads of carpets rare", "Were sent among the gifts and costly ware."]}, {"id": "D3.3.47", "lines": ["Within the litter sat the lovely maid,", "A monk and bishop lent their guiding aid."]}, {"id": "D3.3.48", "lines": ["Behind Nahid came sixty maidens bright,", "Each with a golden cup that caught the light."]}, {"id": "D3.3.49", "lines": ["Their cups held royal jewels of costly glow;", "Their crowns and earrings graced the lovely show."]}, {"id": "D3.3.50", "lines": ["The bishop gave the bride to Darab’s care,", "And to his treasurer counted jewels rare."]}, {"id": "D3.3.51", "lines": ["He stayed but briefly, then resumed his way,", "And toward Iran he led his vast array."]}, {"id": "D3.3.52", "lines": ["To Pars he came, rejoicing with his bride,", "And crowned himself in majesty and pride."]}, {"id": "D3.4.1", "lines": ["One night the bride lay by the king in grace,", "With jewels and scent about her moonlike face."]}, {"id": "D3.4.2", "lines": ["A sudden breath disturbed the Shah that night;", "Its pungent odor troubled his delight."]}, {"id": "D3.4.3", "lines": ["He drew away and turned his face aside,", "Repelled by the foul breath that left his bride."]}, {"id": "D3.4.4", "lines": ["The Shah grew troubled, sunk in anxious thought;", "His brows were furrowed by the care it brought."]}, {"id": "D3.4.5", "lines": ["They summoned learned healers to her aid,", "And by the royal bride their seats were laid."]}, {"id": "D3.4.6", "lines": ["One learned healer sought with judgment sound,", "Until the needed medicine was found."]}, {"id": "D3.4.7", "lines": ["The herb was known as eskandar by name;", "Its touch would set the palate all aflame."]}, {"id": "D3.4.8", "lines": ["He rubbed her palate with the burning herb;", "Her tears streamed down, too strong for her to curb."]}, {"id": "D3.4.9", "lines": ["The foulness passed; her mouth burned from the heat;", "Her face glowed like brocade, the cure complete."]}, {"id": "D3.4.10", "lines": ["Though now her breath was fragrant as pure musk,", "The Shah’s desire had faded into dusk."]}, {"id": "D3.4.11", "lines": ["He sent her back to Faylaqus, her sire,", "For nothing could restore the former fire."]}, {"id": "D3.4.12", "lines": ["She carried his child, but kept the matter sealed,", "And told no one what lay within concealed."]}, {"id": "D3.4.13", "lines": ["When nine full months had passed, the lady bright", "Bore forth a child who shone like morning light."]}, {"id": "D3.4.14", "lines": ["His body fragrant, fair, and strong of frame,", "His mother chose Iskandar for his name."]}, {"id": "D3.4.15", "lines": ["She held that healing name a lucky sign,", "For it had cured her mouth, that herb benign."]}, {"id": "D3.4.16", "lines": ["To every lord the Caesar thus made known:", "“A Caesar from my seed has sprung, my own.”"]}, {"id": "D3.4.17", "lines": ["None spoke of Darab; none would name that one:", "The Caesar was the father, he the son."]}, {"id": "D3.4.18", "lines": ["He hid his shame, lest anyone should know", "That Darab had dismissed his daughter so."]}, {"id": "D3.4.19", "lines": ["When that pure mother bore her shining boy,", "A herald told his grandfather with joy."]}, {"id": "D3.4.20", "lines": ["Within the stable stood a lofty mare,", "Dun-coated, fit for battle, strong and fair."]}, {"id": "D3.4.21", "lines": ["That very night she bore a foal of white,", "With lion’s chest and shanks both short and tight."]}, {"id": "D3.4.22", "lines": ["The Caesar raised his head in joy to see", "This birth, a sign of fortune’s kind decree."]}, {"id": "D3.4.23", "lines": ["At dawn he called the child into his sight,", "And dressed the mare in trappings rich and bright."]}, {"id": "D3.4.24", "lines": ["He stroked its eyes and mane with gentle joy;", "The foal was of an age with Nahid’s boy."]}, {"id": "D3.4.25", "lines": ["The years revolved through happiness and pain,", "As fortune shifted through the Roman reign."]}, {"id": "D3.4.26", "lines": ["The boy acquired a heart fit for a king,", "And speech such as the Pahlevans would bring."]}, {"id": "D3.4.27", "lines": ["More than a son he held the boy in pride,", "And dressed him as a hero at his side."]}, {"id": "D3.4.28", "lines": ["He grew in wisdom, skilled in deed and thought,", "With sober counsel such as sages taught."]}, {"id": "D3.4.29", "lines": ["As heir to Faylaqus he took his place;", "The Caesar’s joy and grief lay in his face."]}, {"id": "D3.4.30", "lines": ["His learned tutors taught him to command,", "And all the arts required to rule the land."]}, {"id": "D3.4.31", "lines": ["He seemed born only to uphold the right,", "And give the throne and kingship lasting might."]}, {"id": "D3.4.32", "lines": ["When Nahid left, Darab took as his wife", "Another bride to share his royal life."]}, {"id": "D3.4.33", "lines": ["She bore a son, a prince of royal grace,", "Younger than Nahid’s child, of shining face."]}, {"id": "D3.4.34", "lines": ["That day they named him Dara: may he gain", "More joy than had his father in his reign."]}, {"id": "D3.4.35", "lines": ["But when twelve years had passed across the land,", "Both life and wealth slipped from the ruler’s hand."]}, {"id": "D3.4.36", "lines": ["Darab, Homahyi’s son, began to fade;", "The other world called him into its shade."]}, {"id": "D3.4.37", "lines": ["He called the nobles and the sages near,", "And spoke of kingship for them all to hear."]}, {"id": "D3.4.38", "lines": ["He said, “Now Dara, son of Darab, stands", "To guide you all in goodness through these lands."]}, {"id": "D3.4.39", "lines": ["Give ear to him, obey his high command,", "And find your spirits’ peace beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "D3.4.40", "lines": ["For kingship’s throne will not endure for long;", "They call us back amid our joy and song."]}, {"id": "D3.4.41", "lines": ["Let love and equity your counsels guide,", "And think of me with joy when I have died.”"]}, {"id": "D3.4.42", "lines": ["He sighed; his pomegranate bloom grew weak,", "And paled into the hue of fenugreek."]}]}, {"id": "D4", "title": "Dara and Iskandar", "summary": "10 sections · 460 couplets", "path": "/poem/d4/", "couplets": [{"id": "D4.1.1", "lines": ["When Dara mourned Darab, he raised on high", "The Kayanian crown above the sunlit sky."]}, {"id": "D4.1.2", "lines": ["A headstrong youth of fierce and rash intent,", "Beside his tongue and heart the blade seemed spent."]}, {"id": "D4.1.3", "lines": ["He took his royal seat before them all,", "And thus addressed the proud chiefs in the hall:"]}, {"id": "D4.1.4", "lines": ["“I want no man who falls into a pit;", "No head seeks crown or throne from out of it."]}, {"id": "D4.1.5", "lines": ["Whoever turns against my high command", "Shall lose his head beneath my royal hand."]}, {"id": "D4.1.6", "lines": ["If in his heart resistance should arise,", "My sword shall tear that heart before his eyes."]}, {"id": "D4.1.7", "lines": ["If others hold their treasure, I disdain", "To see them glad while I endure the pain."]}, {"id": "D4.1.8", "lines": ["I need no counselor to guide my hand,", "For I guide hearts and gladden all the land."]}, {"id": "D4.1.9", "lines": ["All pleasure, shares, and measures I assign;", "Greatness and kingship and command are mine.”"]}, {"id": "D4.1.10", "lines": ["He called a wise scribe forth to take his word,", "And write each royal order as he heard."]}, {"id": "D4.1.11", "lines": ["He became Shah Dara, Darab’s son, heir,", "With Darab’s father, Ardeshir, forebear."]}, {"id": "D4.1.12", "lines": ["He sent to every independent throne", "A khanjar of a letter, sharp in tone:"]}, {"id": "D4.1.13", "lines": ["“Whoever turns against the words I send", "Shall lose his head and meet a rebel’s end."]}, {"id": "D4.1.14", "lines": ["Bow to my orders while you draw your breath,", "In taking life or yielding yours to death.”"]}, {"id": "D4.1.15", "lines": ["He opened wide his father’s golden store,", "And called and paid the troops who came before."]}, {"id": "D4.1.16", "lines": ["Their silver pay from four rose up to eight;", "By cup and basin each received his rate."]}, {"id": "D4.1.17", "lines": ["Silver and gold, bargostvans, jowshans, swords,", "And heavy gorzes armed the gathered hordes."]}, {"id": "D4.1.18", "lines": ["Each chief whose skill long service had made known", "Received a province he could call his own."]}, {"id": "D4.1.19", "lines": ["He gave one mighty chief a frontier land,", "And precious gifts to all his armed band."]}, {"id": "D4.1.20", "lines": ["Then envoys came from every distant place,", "To seek the favor of his royal grace."]}, {"id": "D4.1.21", "lines": ["From Hindustan, the Khaqan, and the lord", "Of Chin, Faghfoor, from Rum and elsewhere poured."]}, {"id": "D4.1.22", "lines": ["They brought him gifts and tribute at his call;", "None had the strength to challenge him at all."]}, {"id": "D4.1.23", "lines": ["He built a city, Zarnush, fair and bright,", "And filled the folk of Ahvaz with delight."]}, {"id": "D4.1.24", "lines": ["He gave the poor their justice at his court,", "And gave petitioners wealth and support."]}, {"id": "D4.2.1", "lines": ["Some days thereafter old Faylaqus died,", "And Rum was cast in turmoil far and wide."]}, {"id": "D4.2.2", "lines": ["Iskandar took his forebear’s throne and crown,", "Resolved that justice keep oppression down."]}, {"id": "D4.2.3", "lines": ["A sage of great renown then lived in Rum;", "Through him his homeland’s joy was in full bloom."]}, {"id": "D4.2.4", "lines": ["Arastatilis, with a searching mind,", "Was wise, alert, and blessed with fortune kind."]}, {"id": "D4.2.5", "lines": ["He came before Iskandar in the hall,", "And took his honored place before them all:"]}, {"id": "D4.2.6", "lines": ["“O fortunate king, beware,” the wise man said,", "“You lose your name upon the path you tread."]}, {"id": "D4.2.7", "lines": ["The royal throne has witnessed many a king;", "To none will it forever choose to cling."]}, {"id": "D4.2.8", "lines": ["When any monarch thinks his judgment whole,", "And spurns the wise who might direct his soul,"]}, {"id": "D4.2.9", "lines": ["No greater fool can walk the world in pride", "Than one who casts the sages’ words aside."]}, {"id": "D4.2.10", "lines": ["We come from dust, and dust shall claim us all;", "We yield our helpless bodies at its call."]}, {"id": "D4.2.11", "lines": ["If you do good, your name shall long survive;", "Upon the royal throne your joy shall thrive."]}, {"id": "D4.2.12", "lines": ["If you do evil, evil you shall reap;", "No night shall bring you happiness in sleep."]}, {"id": "D4.2.13", "lines": ["Through goodness kings gain power to rule the land;", "No kingdom prospers through an evil hand.”"]}, {"id": "D4.2.14", "lines": ["Iskandar welcomed every word he heard;", "He prized the sage who spoke that thoughtful word."]}, {"id": "D4.2.15", "lines": ["He did as that wise counselor would say", "In feast and war, in honor and the fray."]}, {"id": "D4.2.16", "lines": ["He raised him daily in esteem and grace,", "And on a throne assigned an honored place."]}, {"id": "D4.2.17", "lines": ["One day a noble envoy came to court,", "Clear-minded, skilled in speech and apt report."]}, {"id": "D4.2.18", "lines": ["From Dara came this envoy to demand", "The tribute owed him by that prosperous land."]}, {"id": "D4.2.19", "lines": ["He laid before Iskandar what was owed;", "The old tribute became a grievous load."]}, {"id": "D4.2.20", "lines": ["Caesar said, “Tell Dara we pay no more;", "His claim no longer binds us as before."]}, {"id": "D4.2.21", "lines": ["The bird that laid those golden eggs has died;", "From Rum no tribute now shall be supplied.”"]}, {"id": "D4.2.22", "lines": ["The herald quailed before the Roman king,", "Then fled the court as if he took to wing."]}, {"id": "D4.2.23", "lines": ["Iskandar called his legions to attend,", "And told the tribute tale from start to end."]}, {"id": "D4.2.24", "lines": ["He said, “No man escapes the wheel on high,", "Or fortune’s turns beneath the circling sky."]}, {"id": "D4.2.25", "lines": ["I mean to march across the breadth of earth,", "To learn what good and ill in life are worth."]}, {"id": "D4.2.26", "lines": ["You must prepare for all that lies before;", "Your hearts must cling to home and ease no more.”"]}, {"id": "D4.2.27", "lines": ["The chiefs all heard and bowed before his place;", "Upon the dust each man then laid his face."]}, {"id": "D4.2.28", "lines": ["“We all are yours, your servants to command;", "We bow our heads beneath great Caesar’s hand.”"]}, {"id": "D4.2.29", "lines": ["His forebear’s treasuries he opened wide,", "And ordered all his legions be supplied."]}, {"id": "D4.2.30", "lines": ["At dawn the cries of war arose in Rum,", "From city streets and every palace room."]}, {"id": "D4.2.31", "lines": ["Behind the Roman lord his banner flew;", "Red letters marked its field of turquoise blue."]}, {"id": "D4.2.32", "lines": ["From Rum to Mesr the legions thronged the way;", "No ant or gnat could pass that vast array."]}, {"id": "D4.2.33", "lines": ["The armies faced each other, fierce in fight;", "For seven days they strove with all their might."]}, {"id": "D4.2.34", "lines": ["The eighth day brought the troops of Mesr defeat;", "Iskandar barred the road of their retreat."]}, {"id": "D4.2.35", "lines": ["So many captives fell into their hands,", "Their own grew weary binding them with bands."]}, {"id": "D4.2.36", "lines": ["They seized steeds, gorzes, bargostvans as spoil,", "With jowshans, khanjars made on Indian soil;"]}, {"id": "D4.2.37", "lines": ["They gathered belts and horse gear wrought of gold,", "And swords of Mesr that golden scabbards hold."]}, {"id": "D4.2.38", "lines": ["They seized brocade and gold coins in a load", "Too great for any horse upon the road."]}, {"id": "D4.2.39", "lines": ["Then Mesr nobles and chiefs of honored name", "Sought quarter there and bowed before his fame."]}, {"id": "D4.2.40", "lines": ["He armed for war with Iran, striking awe,", "Set to crush the lion’s heart and foe’s claw."]}, {"id": "D4.2.41", "lines": ["When Dara heard the troops from Rum had stirred,", "And reached his land, he acted on the word."]}, {"id": "D4.2.42", "lines": ["From old Istakhr so vast an army spread,", "Their spears denied the wind a path ahead."]}, {"id": "D4.2.43", "lines": ["He marched from Pars toward Rum, intent to go", "From Iran to the lands where riches flow."]}, {"id": "D4.2.44", "lines": ["He led his army to the Farat’s side,", "More troops than growing plants spread far and wide."]}, {"id": "D4.2.45", "lines": ["He ranged his troops along the river’s bank;", "Their jowshans hid the water, rank on rank."]}, {"id": "D4.3.1", "lines": ["When news of Dara’s troops came down the way,", "Iskandar marched to meet its vast array."]}, {"id": "D4.3.2", "lines": ["Two farsangs lay between the camps; he brought", "His chiefs to share their counsel and his thought."]}, {"id": "D4.3.3", "lines": ["They spoke at length of Dara’s force and state,", "And told his story as they held debate."]}, {"id": "D4.3.4", "lines": ["When he had heard enough, he voiced his view:", "“There is one course, and this I mean to do:"]}, {"id": "D4.3.5", "lines": ["I go as envoy to the Iran throne,", "And judge his strength and weakness on my own.”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.6", "lines": ["He bade them bring a jeweled belt of state,", "And gold-worked robes befitting one so great."]}, {"id": "D4.3.7", "lines": ["They brought a horse with golden gear arrayed,", "And by its saddle set a gold-sheathed blade."]}, {"id": "D4.3.8", "lines": ["He chose ten Roman horsemen, fit to ride,", "Skilled in discourse, to travel at his side."]}, {"id": "D4.3.9", "lines": ["At dawn he left with that appointed train,", "Ten famed interpreters across the plain."]}, {"id": "D4.3.10", "lines": ["When he approached Shah Dara’s royal place,", "He then dismounted, bowed with courtly grace."]}, {"id": "D4.3.11", "lines": ["The Shah received the envoy with due care,", "And near his throne assigned the man a chair."]}, {"id": "D4.3.12", "lines": ["The courtiers marveled at his noble frame,", "And in their hearts gave praise to his great name."]}, {"id": "D4.3.13", "lines": ["They saw his royal splendor, learning, grace,", "His height and limbs, the color of his face."]}, {"id": "D4.3.14", "lines": ["He sat, then rose at once to speak his part,", "And shaped Iskandar’s message with his art:"]}, {"id": "D4.3.15", "lines": ["“May you live long beneath the turning sphere,", "May your crowned head endure from year to year."]}, {"id": "D4.3.16", "lines": ["Iskandar says: ‘O king of high renown,", "Whose wishes thrive wherever shines your crown,"]}, {"id": "D4.3.17", "lines": ["I have no wish to war upon your land,", "Nor linger in Iran with this armed band."]}, {"id": "D4.3.18", "lines": ["My only purpose is to journey wide,", "And view the realms that stretch on every side."]}, {"id": "D4.3.19", "lines": ["I seek all truth and goodness in your reign,", "Since you are lord of Iran’s wide domain."]}, {"id": "D4.3.20", "lines": ["If you deny me earth, how can I fly", "And tread, like clouds, a pathway through the sky?"]}, {"id": "D4.3.21", "lines": ["You bring your army here, yet do not know", "What plans I hold, or where I mean to go."]}, {"id": "D4.3.22", "lines": ["If you choose war, then war shall answer you;", "I shall not leave until the fight is through."]}, {"id": "D4.3.23", "lines": ["Appoint the day on which our swords shall meet;", "And keep that purpose firm; do not retreat."]}, {"id": "D4.3.24", "lines": ["I will not turn from mighty chiefs in fear,", "However vast the force that gathers here.’”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.25", "lines": ["Dara observed his courage and his height,", "His speech and judgment, royal splendor bright."]}, {"id": "D4.3.26", "lines": ["He seemed like Darab on an ivory throne,", "With armlets, torque, and crown that brightly shone."]}, {"id": "D4.3.27", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Tell your name and lineage now;", "The marks of kingship shine upon your brow."]}, {"id": "D4.3.28", "lines": ["You far surpass the lesser men I see;", "I think Iskandar you yourself must be."]}, {"id": "D4.3.29", "lines": ["With such a form and face, such speech and grace,", "Has heaven reared you for a sovereign’s place?”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.30", "lines": ["Iskandar said, “No prudent king would go", "To bear his own dispatch to friend or foe."]}, {"id": "D4.3.31", "lines": ["My master’s court has speakers skilled and wise,", "And learned men whom every prince would prize."]}, {"id": "D4.3.32", "lines": ["His court has many men of speech and art;", "He need not leave his throne to play my part."]}, {"id": "D4.3.33", "lines": ["His judgment would not lead him to forsake", "The paths his elders taught a king to take."]}, {"id": "D4.3.34", "lines": ["My lord entrusted me with this command;", "I gave his words as he himself had planned.”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.35", "lines": ["They lodged the envoy in a tent of state,", "Prepared to suit a man of rank so great."]}, {"id": "D4.3.36", "lines": ["The feast was spread; the Shah then gave the call:", "His officer must bring him to the hall."]}, {"id": "D4.3.37", "lines": ["They called him in and gave him his due place,", "The envoy’s seat, with fitting courtly grace."]}, {"id": "D4.3.38", "lines": ["They ate; then wine and music stirred the throng,", "As players answered summons with their song."]}, {"id": "D4.3.39", "lines": ["Iskandar drank the wine they brought around,", "And in his lap each emptied cup was found."]}, {"id": "D4.3.40", "lines": ["The wine and cups went round in ample store;", "He kept too many, adding more and more."]}, {"id": "D4.3.41", "lines": ["The servant told the Shah, “The cups we bring", "He keeps; all made of gold, O noble king.”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.42", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Ask why he keeps each cup,", "And will not let the server take it up.”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.43", "lines": ["The server asked, “O man of kingly grace,", "Why clasp these golden cups in your embrace?”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.44", "lines": ["Iskandar said, “Where royal wine is poured,", "The envoy keeps the goblet at the board."]}, {"id": "D4.3.45", "lines": ["If Iran’s custom differs, then restore", "This golden goblet to the royal store.”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.46", "lines": ["Dara laughed, then ordered them to bring", "A cup of precious jewels fit for a king."]}, {"id": "D4.3.47", "lines": ["He bade them place the goblet in his hand,", "A red ruby on top, at his command."]}, {"id": "D4.3.48", "lines": ["Just then the men who, far from home, had made", "Their way to Rum to seek the tribute paid,"]}, {"id": "D4.3.49", "lines": ["Came from their lodgings to the banquet hall,", "And walked toward the Shah before them all."]}, {"id": "D4.3.50", "lines": ["One saw Iskandar, then approached the throne,", "And blessed the Shah before he made him known:"]}, {"id": "D4.3.51", "lines": ["“This is Iskandar, lord of royal grace,", "Who sits with crown and gorz in Rum’s high place."]}, {"id": "D4.3.52", "lines": ["When you commanded us to claim the due,", "We went to him as envoys sent by you."]}, {"id": "D4.3.53", "lines": ["He raged and humbled us before his throne,", "And warred on you in words, in scornful tone."]}, {"id": "D4.3.54", "lines": ["I fled his realm and spurred my steeds in flight,", "And drove them onward through the dark of night."]}, {"id": "D4.3.55", "lines": ["No other man in Rum bears such a face;", "He boldly comes within this very place."]}, {"id": "D4.3.56", "lines": ["He measures all your troops, your treasure’s worth,", "Your throne and crown, your sovereign might on earth.”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.57", "lines": ["When Dara heard the tribute-seeker’s claim,", "He fixed a longer gaze upon his frame."]}, {"id": "D4.3.58", "lines": ["Iskandar knew what they had said apart,", "The words they placed within the monarch’s heart."]}, {"id": "D4.3.59", "lines": ["He waited till the daylight lost its glow,", "And watched the sun sink westward, gleaming low."]}, {"id": "D4.3.60", "lines": ["He reached the entrance of the royal tent,", "And mounted there, on swift departure bent."]}, {"id": "D4.3.61", "lines": ["He spoke to his own riders, men of fame,", "Whose lofty fortune matched their noble name:"]}, {"id": "D4.3.62", "lines": ["“Our lives upon our horses’ speed depend;", "If they grow weak, we grasp wind in the end.”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.63", "lines": ["They spurred their horses, galloping in flight,", "And fled from Dara’s camp with all their might."]}, {"id": "D4.3.64", "lines": ["When Dara looked, no crowned head was in sight;", "The guest had vanished in the dark of night."]}, {"id": "D4.3.65", "lines": ["At once he sent a watchman out to spy", "Upon the suspect’s tent that stood nearby."]}, {"id": "D4.3.66", "lines": ["Iskandar fled before the scout drew near;", "His fortune had not slept, nor failed him here."]}, {"id": "D4.3.67", "lines": ["Dara dispatched a thousand horsemen, bent", "To seize Iskandar as he homeward went."]}, {"id": "D4.3.68", "lines": ["They raced like wind; the night was dark and black,", "And none could recognize the proper track."]}, {"id": "D4.3.69", "lines": ["At sight of a patrol they turned around;", "From that long, weary ride no gain was found."]}, {"id": "D4.3.70", "lines": ["When he returned, the Roman chiefs of might", "Rose from their seats, rejoicing at the sight."]}, {"id": "D4.3.71", "lines": ["That night they saw their sovereign glad at heart,", "A gem-filled cup before him, set apart."]}, {"id": "D4.3.72", "lines": ["He said, “Be blessed, and let your hearts be glad;", "Rejoice in this good omen we have had."]}, {"id": "D4.3.73", "lines": ["This cup means victory to every soul;", "The stars themselves are under our control."]}, {"id": "D4.3.74", "lines": ["I counted all their troops in camp and court;", "Their cavalry falls far below report."]}, {"id": "D4.3.75", "lines": ["Draw all your swords for battle, steel in hand;", "And press across the level, open land."]}, {"id": "D4.3.76", "lines": ["If you endure the struggle and the pain,", "Then kingship and rich treasure you shall gain."]}, {"id": "D4.3.77", "lines": ["The World-Creator grants His helping grace;", "The head of Fortune rests in my embrace.”"]}, {"id": "D4.3.78", "lines": ["The mighty chiefs called blessings on his head,", "“May earth be blessed beneath your rule,” they said."]}, {"id": "D4.3.79", "lines": ["“For you our souls and bodies we lay down;", "Our pledge endures forever to your crown."]}, {"id": "D4.3.80", "lines": ["What king can rival you in noble height,", "In beauty, bearing, courage, and in might?”"]}, {"id": "D4.4.1", "lines": ["The sun rose from the raven’s back; its light", "Made earth a golden lamp that glimmered bright."]}, {"id": "D4.4.2", "lines": ["Dara, the realm’s commander, marched ahead;", "The world drew pitch-black veils about its head."]}, {"id": "D4.4.3", "lines": ["From old Farat he marched across the land,", "More troops than blades of grass filled his command."]}, {"id": "D4.4.4", "lines": ["Iskandar heard, made the tabiras sound;", "He marched his legions toward the battleground."]}, {"id": "D4.4.5", "lines": ["The armies stretched beyond the reach of sight;", "His age had none to match Iskandar’s might."]}, {"id": "D4.4.6", "lines": ["War-coats and Indian khanjars filled the plain,", "With steeds and bargostvans throughout the train."]}, {"id": "D4.4.7", "lines": ["Both armies and their gear, in numbers vast,", "Made earth a sea; their dust rose, mountain-massed."]}, {"id": "D4.4.8", "lines": ["Both armies formed their lines for coming war;", "The distant sun grew warm from blades they bore."]}, {"id": "D4.4.9", "lines": ["They brought the mighty elephants ahead,", "And like the waters of the Nile they spread."]}, {"id": "D4.4.10", "lines": ["Behind the beasts the horsemen held the rear;", "No warrior there still held his own life dear."]}, {"id": "D4.4.11", "lines": ["The air seemed roaring blood amid the toil;", "Beneath that tumult earth began to boil."]}, {"id": "D4.4.12", "lines": ["The horns and Indian bells resounded high,", "And tore earth’s heart out with their piercing cry."]}, {"id": "D4.4.13", "lines": ["The charging horses neighed with furious sound,", "While chiefs cried out and gorzes clanged around."]}, {"id": "D4.4.14", "lines": ["Earth seemed a mountain armed to join the fray,", "While dust concealed the heavens far away."]}, {"id": "D4.4.15", "lines": ["For one full week the rival armies bled,", "As warriors faced their enemies ahead."]}, {"id": "D4.4.16", "lines": ["Upon the eighth, dark dust rose into view;", "The sun above them turned to lapis blue."]}, {"id": "D4.4.17", "lines": ["Iran’s embattled warriors saw no light,", "With only dust of battle in their sight."]}, {"id": "D4.4.18", "lines": ["Then Dara turned and fled the field that day,", "And all his warlike chiefs forsook the fray."]}, {"id": "D4.4.19", "lines": ["His beaten troops crossed Farat in their flight,", "And left the field where they had waged the fight."]}, {"id": "D4.4.20", "lines": ["Iskandar’s legions pressed the fleeing foe,", "One side in triumph, one consumed by woe."]}, {"id": "D4.4.21", "lines": ["They struck them down along the river shore,", "Uncounted sons of Iran breathed no more."]}, {"id": "D4.4.22", "lines": ["The army turned away from Farat’s strand;", "They left the river at the Caesar’s command."]}, {"id": "D4.4.23", "lines": ["He came in triumph to the field he knew,", "Where he had ranged his army in review."]}, {"id": "D4.5.1", "lines": ["When Dara fled before the Roman might,", "He sent swift riders out to left and right."]}, {"id": "D4.5.2", "lines": ["He called Iran’s chiefs and men who dealt the pay,", "And gave out coin to ready their array."]}, {"id": "D4.5.3", "lines": ["The month began; his troops stood armed and steeled;", "His chiefs were proud and ready for the field."]}, {"id": "D4.5.4", "lines": ["He crossed the river to the plain, and then", "Drew up his ranks for battle once again."]}, {"id": "D4.5.5", "lines": ["When word reached young Iskandar, he drew near,", "And left his heavy baggage in the rear."]}, {"id": "D4.5.6", "lines": ["When those two mighty armies met in war,", "Both earth and time grew eager for its roar."]}, {"id": "D4.5.7", "lines": ["For three long days they fought with sword and might,", "Till heaps of dead left little room to fight."]}, {"id": "D4.5.8", "lines": ["Great numbers of Iran’s brave warriors died,", "And fortune turned from Dara’s royal side."]}, {"id": "D4.5.9", "lines": ["Dara withdrew in anguish and dismay,", "The sun and moon had turned their aid away."]}, {"id": "D4.5.10", "lines": ["Iskandar followed swiftly where he trod,", "And called to mind the World-Creator, God."]}, {"id": "D4.5.11", "lines": ["Before the army rose a cry to say:", "“O subjects who have wandered from the way,"]}, {"id": "D4.5.12", "lines": ["You need not fear my wrath or suffer harm;", "My legions shall not cause you fresh alarm."]}, {"id": "D4.5.13", "lines": ["Remain within your homes, secure and whole;", "To God entrust your body and your soul."]}, {"id": "D4.5.14", "lines": ["Though blood has stained your hands in former strife,", "From Rum you are secure in limb and life.”"]}, {"id": "D4.5.15", "lines": ["Iran’s folk found their safety now restored,", "And turned toward Rum, secure against its sword."]}, {"id": "D4.5.16", "lines": ["He crossed the field where blood had dyed the ground,", "And gathered all the spoils his legions found."]}, {"id": "D4.5.17", "lines": ["He gave his legions all the wealth he gained,", "And made them strong, well armed, and well sustained."]}, {"id": "D4.5.18", "lines": ["For four full months he lingered with his force,", "Until their rest had run its needed course."]}, {"id": "D4.5.19", "lines": ["Dara reached Jahram, where his wealth was stored,", "And where the keys were kept to all his hoard."]}, {"id": "D4.5.20", "lines": ["His chiefs came out to meet him on the way,", "Consumed by burning grief and deep dismay."]}, {"id": "D4.5.21", "lines": ["The fathers cried for sons they could not find;", "Sons cried for fathers, grief with grief entwined."]}, {"id": "D4.5.22", "lines": ["Throughout Iran the cries of sorrow spread,", "Like drops of dew, their tears fell for the dead."]}, {"id": "D4.5.23", "lines": ["From Jahram to Istakhr he made his ride,", "The city famed as all the nobles’ pride."]}, {"id": "D4.5.24", "lines": ["He sent his messengers through every land,", "To summon Pahlevans at his command."]}, {"id": "D4.5.25", "lines": ["The warriors gathered in the royal hall;", "A golden seat was set before them all."]}, {"id": "D4.5.26", "lines": ["Then Dara sat upon the throne of gold;", "His loyal chiefs approached him, brave and bold."]}, {"id": "D4.5.27", "lines": ["He spoke to Iran’s chiefs, the wise and keen:", "“O watchful warriors, hear what I have seen."]}, {"id": "D4.5.28", "lines": ["Consider now what course we ought to steer.”", "He spoke in pain and shed a bitter tear."]}, {"id": "D4.5.29", "lines": ["“Far better die today and win renown", "Than live while foes rejoice to see us down."]}, {"id": "D4.5.30", "lines": ["Our fathers and our kings, while yet they reigned,", "Received the yearly tribute they had gained."]}, {"id": "D4.5.31", "lines": ["Rum once lay subject to us, bowed and low;", "Now fortune turns against us, bringing woe."]}, {"id": "D4.5.32", "lines": ["He holds the realm; our sovereignty has fled,", "And young Iskandar bears the crown instead."]}, {"id": "D4.5.33", "lines": ["He will not stop; his coming draws more near,", "And Pars shall be a sea of blood and fear."]}, {"id": "D4.5.34", "lines": ["Our women, children, men shall captive fall;", "No young or old will stay here, none at all."]}, {"id": "D4.5.35", "lines": ["But if you stand beside me, hand in hand,", "I shall turn grief and ruin from our land."]}, {"id": "D4.5.36", "lines": ["The Romans once were prey before our might,", "Worn down by all Iran throughout the fight."]}, {"id": "D4.5.37", "lines": ["Now we are prey, and they are leopards; we", "From every battle turn our backs and flee."]}, {"id": "D4.5.38", "lines": ["Yet if we stand together, shield to shield,", "We may recover every captured field."]}, {"id": "D4.5.39", "lines": ["But should one man grow faint amid the strife,", "And shrink from risking honor, blood, and life,"]}, {"id": "D4.5.40", "lines": ["Abandon hope; we share in Jamshid’s plight,", "While Rum is now Zahhak in all his might.”"]}, {"id": "D4.5.41", "lines": ["He spoke and wept, with pain that pierced him through;", "His cheeks were yellow and his lips were blue."]}, {"id": "D4.5.42", "lines": ["The prudent nobles rose, their purpose clear,", "And framed the answer for the Shah to hear."]}, {"id": "D4.5.43", "lines": ["A cry of grief arose within the hall:", "“Without the Shah, we want no world at all."]}, {"id": "D4.5.44", "lines": ["We all shall face the conflict, blow for blow,", "And make the world grow narrow for the foe."]}, {"id": "D4.5.45", "lines": ["We bind our hems together, hand in hand,", "Whether we gain the dust or rule the land.”"]}, {"id": "D4.5.46", "lines": ["He gave his troops and chiefs both arms and pay,", "To furnish all the men of his array."]}, {"id": "D4.6.1", "lines": ["Iskandar learned that Dara’s royal might", "Had crowned the moon from his enthroned height."]}, {"id": "D4.6.2", "lines": ["He led his legions from Farat arrayed,", "And in the Roman tongue to God he prayed."]}, {"id": "D4.6.3", "lines": ["His army’s midst and bounds no eye could trace;", "And Dara’s fortune lost its youthful grace."]}, {"id": "D4.6.4", "lines": ["The Shah made to meet Caesar on the plain,", "And brought Istakhr’s vast army in his train."]}, {"id": "D4.6.5", "lines": ["The burdened earth could scarcely bear their weight,", "The turning heavens seemed compelled to wait."]}, {"id": "D4.6.6", "lines": ["The monarchs drew their armies forth to stand,", "With spear and gorz and khanjar held in hand."]}, {"id": "D4.6.7", "lines": ["The armies’ clamor thundered to the sphere,", "And tore, it seemed, the turning heaven’s ear."]}, {"id": "D4.6.8", "lines": ["The earth became a sea of streaming red,", "And headless trunks lay mingled with the dead."]}, {"id": "D4.6.9", "lines": ["No father could attend his son that day,", "As faithless fortune turned from men away."]}, {"id": "D4.6.10", "lines": ["Night fell, and Dara broke beneath attack;", "Iskandar girded, set to drive him back."]}, {"id": "D4.6.11", "lines": ["The Shah withdrew to Kerman in defeat,", "To save his life and lead his troops’ retreat."]}, {"id": "D4.6.12", "lines": ["Iskandar came to Istakhr, pride of Pars,", "The seat of crowns beneath the circling stars."]}, {"id": "D4.6.13", "lines": ["A cry rang from the court to all the great:", "“O chiefs who guide the people of the state,"]}, {"id": "D4.6.14", "lines": ["All you who seek our shelter in your need,", "And turn to God from every former deed,"]}, {"id": "D4.6.15", "lines": ["If you wish well to me, dismiss your fear;", "You all shall find my pledged protection here."]}, {"id": "D4.6.16", "lines": ["The wounded shall receive gifts for relief;", "We shall not spill foes’ blood, adding grief to grief."]}, {"id": "D4.6.17", "lines": ["We shall not touch the goods that others own,", "And guide our wisdom where the right is shown."]}, {"id": "D4.6.18", "lines": ["For God has granted glory to our name,", "The crown of kings and majesty and fame."]}, {"id": "D4.6.19", "lines": ["Whoever dares defy what we command", "Treads on a dragon’s neck where he would stand.”"]}, {"id": "D4.6.20", "lines": ["Whatever spoils were gathered from the fight,", "He shared among his troops by royal right."]}, {"id": "D4.6.21", "lines": ["When Dara reached Kerman, he looked in vain", "For two-thirds of the chiefs who led his train."]}, {"id": "D4.6.22", "lines": ["A mournful wailing through the army spread;", "Each hopeless soldier stood with naked head."]}, {"id": "D4.6.23", "lines": ["He called the wise surviving chiefs to meet,", "Who fought beside him in their great defeat."]}, {"id": "D4.6.24", "lines": ["They gathered, mourning all they once could share,", "Their hearts consumed beneath the weight of care."]}, {"id": "D4.6.25", "lines": ["Then Dara said, “We surely have brought down", "The wrath of heaven upon our ancient crown."]}, {"id": "D4.6.26", "lines": ["No man had seen such ruin or defeat,", "Nor heard old masters such a tale repeat."]}, {"id": "D4.6.27", "lines": ["The Shah’s own wives and children captive lie;", "Fate wounds our hearts, while shafts through bodies fly."]}, {"id": "D4.6.28", "lines": ["What counsel have you? What can now be done", "To make our foe rue what he has begun?"]}, {"id": "D4.6.29", "lines": ["No realm or throne or crown is left us here,", "No kingship, children, wealth, or troops appear."]}, {"id": "D4.6.30", "lines": ["Unless the Maker grants us mercy now,", "Our days are ruined; grief will mark our brow.”"]}, {"id": "D4.6.31", "lines": ["The chieftains wept before the monarch’s eyes,", "And filled the council chamber with their cries:"]}, {"id": "D4.6.32", "lines": ["“O Shah, our strength is broken by this strain,", "And grief is joined with a relentless pain."]}, {"id": "D4.6.33", "lines": ["Our army has no strength left for the fight;", "The flood has risen past our heads in height."]}, {"id": "D4.6.34", "lines": ["Sonless are fathers; fatherless are sons;", "Thus heaven’s course against our people runs."]}, {"id": "D4.6.35", "lines": ["Our mothers, sisters, daughters, all now stand", "As captives held within Iskandar’s hand."]}, {"id": "D4.6.36", "lines": ["Your sheltered women, too, whose hearts would quake", "With fear for you, and tremble for your sake,"]}, {"id": "D4.6.37", "lines": ["The wealth your noble forebears left behind,", "Which came to you with no reproach assigned,"]}, {"id": "D4.6.38", "lines": ["Rum holds them now, the noble line and store,", "The Kayanian wealth our fathers held before."]}, {"id": "D4.6.39", "lines": ["We cannot face the legions in the field,", "Or meet their charge; our broken troops would yield."]}, {"id": "D4.6.40", "lines": ["Peace with him is our sole remaining plan;", "The crown remains forever with no man."]}, {"id": "D4.6.41", "lines": ["The circling sky will turn on him in time,", "As sages have observed in every clime."]}, {"id": "D4.6.42", "lines": ["Show him submission; let your words convey", "A gentler temper in the things you say."]}, {"id": "D4.6.43", "lines": ["Then we shall see which way the matter goes,", "For heaven’s hidden purpose no one knows."]}, {"id": "D4.6.44", "lines": ["Write him a letter; let your words of art", "Awaken thought within his darkened heart."]}, {"id": "D4.6.45", "lines": ["Who lowers fire’s flame with words has skill", "To ward from his own life approaching ill.”"]}, {"id": "D4.6.46", "lines": ["When Dara heard, he chose their counsel’s way,", "As well befits the kings whom men obey."]}, {"id": "D4.7.1", "lines": ["Before the Shah a seasoned scribe drew near,", "With paper, black musk ink, his writing gear."]}, {"id": "D4.7.2", "lines": ["With yellow cheeks and eyes that blood had wept,", "He wrote the bitter thoughts his sorrow kept."]}, {"id": "D4.7.3", "lines": ["From Dara, born of Ardeshir’s famed line,", "To Caesar Iskandar, whose conquests shine."]}, {"id": "D4.7.4", "lines": ["He praised the Maker, from whose sovereign hand", "Both good and ill had come at His command:"]}, {"id": "D4.7.5", "lines": ["“The wisest sage, however learned or brave,", "Cannot escape the fate the heavens gave."]}, {"id": "D4.7.6", "lines": ["From it come joy and dread; its changes show", "Us now upon the heights, now fallen low."]}, {"id": "D4.7.7", "lines": ["Our armies’ fate was settled not by might,", "But by the sun and moon’s ordained flight."]}, {"id": "D4.7.8", "lines": ["What was destined has come; our hearts still ache.", "And what new turn will the azure vault take?"]}, {"id": "D4.7.9", "lines": ["If you agree to peace and swear accord,", "And turn your heart from seeking war by sword,"]}, {"id": "D4.7.10", "lines": ["The wealth Goshtasb and Esfandiyar amassed,", "With crown and armlets, earrings from the past,"]}, {"id": "D4.7.11", "lines": ["I shall dispatch these treasures from my store,", "With all the wealth my labors earned before."]}, {"id": "D4.7.12", "lines": ["I shall assist you on the journey through,", "By day or night, and prove my service true."]}, {"id": "D4.7.13", "lines": ["But let my wives and children now depart,", "And send them home with mercy in your heart."]}, {"id": "D4.7.14", "lines": ["The rulers of the world should never show", "A vengeful spirit toward a fallen foe."]}, {"id": "D4.7.15", "lines": ["From vengeance on these women, none gains fame;", "A king reaps only infamy and shame."]}, {"id": "D4.7.16", "lines": ["The wise king, when he reads these words of mine,", "Will weigh this counsel and its terms define.”"]}, {"id": "D4.7.17", "lines": ["From Kerman sped a camel on its way,", "To wary Iskandar without delay."]}, {"id": "D4.7.18", "lines": ["Iskandar read the scroll, then softly said,", "“May perfect wisdom crown the monarch’s head!"]}, {"id": "D4.7.19", "lines": ["Who harms the Shah’s own children or his kin,", "Or sheltered women, shall no pardon win."]}, {"id": "D4.7.20", "lines": ["His only throne shall be the grave’s dark bed,", "Or from a bough he shall hang till life has fled."]}, {"id": "D4.7.21", "lines": ["Let no kin of the Shah know harm or woe,", "Nor tribute, tax, or treasure shall they owe."]}, {"id": "D4.7.22", "lines": ["If once the Shah returns to Iran, then", "The whole of kingship shall be yours again."]}, {"id": "D4.7.23", "lines": ["Your covenant I keep and shall not stray,", "Nor turn one breath against the words you say.”"]}, {"id": "D4.7.24", "lines": ["The camel went back to Kerman like a flood;", "The Shah’s two eyes and heart were filled with blood."]}, {"id": "D4.8.1", "lines": ["When Dara read the answer sent that day,", "He marveled at the world’s capricious way."]}, {"id": "D4.8.2", "lines": ["At last, he said, “To bow before this foe", "Is worse than death beneath the sword’s last blow."]}, {"id": "D4.8.3", "lines": ["A silent grave is better than disgrace.”", "He spoke a sage’s proverb in that place:"]}, {"id": "D4.8.4", "lines": ["“When waters of the sea rise far and wide,", "A drop of rain lies hidden in the tide."]}, {"id": "D4.8.5", "lines": ["I once sent aid wherever wars arose;", "Now ruin hammers at my doors and grows."]}, {"id": "D4.8.6", "lines": ["No helper now remains beneath the sun;", "I call on God, the everlasting One.”"]}, {"id": "D4.8.7", "lines": ["Since none remained to gather at his call,", "He wrote to Foor, deserted now by all."]}, {"id": "D4.8.8", "lines": ["In deep distress, with humble words of praise,", "He blessed Yazdan who rules our earthly days."]}, {"id": "D4.8.9", "lines": ["He wrote, “O king of Hind, whose searching mind", "Is wise, enlightened, learned, and refined,"]}, {"id": "D4.8.10", "lines": ["You surely have been told our bitter fate,", "And how the stars have ruined all our state."]}, {"id": "D4.8.11", "lines": ["Iskandar led his western troops’ campaign,", "And seized the realm that once was my domain."]}, {"id": "D4.8.12", "lines": ["No field or settled town remains in sight,", "No kin or child is here to ease my plight."]}, {"id": "D4.8.13", "lines": ["Our throne and crown, our army; all are lost;", "Our gathered treasures lie dispersed and tossed."]}, {"id": "D4.8.14", "lines": ["Now, if you help me turn this ruin back,", "And shield me from the harm of this attack,"]}, {"id": "D4.8.15", "lines": ["I shall dispatch such jewels from my store", "That wealth shall be your source of care no more."]}, {"id": "D4.8.16", "lines": ["Moreover, you shall win enduring fame,", "And all the great shall honor your good name.”"]}, {"id": "D4.8.17", "lines": ["A wind-swift camel sped upon its way", "To Foor, of Foors’ descent, without delay."]}, {"id": "D4.8.18", "lines": ["Iskandar learned what Dara had designed,", "And knew what help from Hind he hoped to find."]}, {"id": "D4.8.19", "lines": ["Horns and tabiras rang at his command;", "The Indian bells resounded through the land."]}, {"id": "D4.8.20", "lines": ["From old Istakhr, Iskandar led his force,", "And dust obscured the sun along their course."]}, {"id": "D4.8.21", "lines": ["The war-cries rose from either armed array;", "No man of battle stood at ease that day."]}, {"id": "D4.8.22", "lines": ["Iskandar drew his legions up to fight,", "While darkened air concealed the earth from sight."]}, {"id": "D4.8.23", "lines": ["When Dara’s weary army came in view,", "No thirst for further battle stirred his crew."]}, {"id": "D4.8.24", "lines": ["Their hearts were broken, weary of the fray;", "Iran’s once lofty fortune sank away."]}, {"id": "D4.8.25", "lines": ["Against the Romans, all their strength gave way;", "The raging lion turned a fox that day."]}, {"id": "D4.8.26", "lines": ["The nobles sought protection from the foe,", "And fell from greatness into shame and woe."]}, {"id": "D4.8.27", "lines": ["The weeping Shah turned back his horse’s head,", "And from the field in grief and anguish fled."]}, {"id": "D4.8.28", "lines": ["Three hundred noble riders joined his flight,", "Each one a man of name, renowned in fight."]}, {"id": "D4.8.29", "lines": ["Two honored counselors rode in his train,", "His comrades on the field of war and pain."]}, {"id": "D4.8.30", "lines": ["One was the Mobad Mahiyar by name;", "The other, Janusiyar, with him came."]}, {"id": "D4.8.31", "lines": ["These two saw Dara’s royal star grow dim,", "And knew that fate no longer favored him."]}, {"id": "D4.8.32", "lines": ["They whispered, “Nothing can his rule restore,", "Or give him crown and throne he held before."]}, {"id": "D4.8.33", "lines": ["A khanjar in his breast must strike him dead,", "Or else an Indian blade must cleave his head."]}, {"id": "D4.8.34", "lines": ["Iskandar then will grant us land to own,", "And we shall rise to power through his throne.”"]}, {"id": "D4.8.35", "lines": ["His two advisers rode beside him still;", "They kept his treasure, serving at his will."]}, {"id": "D4.8.36", "lines": ["The elder rode at left, Mahiyar right;", "A wind arose beneath the dark of night."]}, {"id": "D4.8.37", "lines": ["Then Janusiyar gripped his khanjar fast,", "And through the monarch’s breast its point he passed."]}, {"id": "D4.8.38", "lines": ["The wounded monarch bowed his famous head;", "His army scattered when their sovereign bled;"]}, {"id": "D4.8.39", "lines": ["Then Dara’s minister rode on his way", "To where the Roman king and legions lay."]}, {"id": "D4.9.1", "lines": ["Janusiyar began his words of praise:", "“Victorious king, may joy attend your days!"]}, {"id": "D4.9.2", "lines": ["We struck your foe, and sudden was his fall;", "His crown and throne are ended, once for all.”"]}, {"id": "D4.9.3", "lines": ["Iskandar heard what Janusiyar had said,", "Then turned to speak to Mahiyar instead:"]}, {"id": "D4.9.4", "lines": ["“Where is the enemy you struck down so?", "Now lead me straight to him; before me go.”"]}, {"id": "D4.9.5", "lines": ["The pair went first; the Roman, torn with pain,", "Felt bloody tears upon his features rain."]}, {"id": "D4.9.6", "lines": ["He came to Dara, pale of face and weak,", "His breast all blood, his face like fenugreek."]}, {"id": "D4.9.7", "lines": ["He bade them leave their mounts and hold the pair,", "The two advisers, under watchful care."]}, {"id": "D4.9.8", "lines": ["He sprang down like the wind and bent to see", "The wounded Shah, whose head lay on his knee."]}, {"id": "D4.9.9", "lines": ["He watched to see if Dara still could speak,", "And rubbed both hands across the royal cheek."]}, {"id": "D4.9.10", "lines": ["He lifted off the heavy royal crown,", "Then eased the jowshan off that weighed him down."]}, {"id": "D4.9.11", "lines": ["He eased the wounded monarch, weeping low,", "For no wise healer stood to treat the blow."]}, {"id": "D4.9.12", "lines": ["He said, “May all your suffering disappear;", "May those who wished you harm be seized with fear."]}, {"id": "D4.9.13", "lines": ["Rise to the golden litter from the ground,", "Or mount your horse, if strength can still be found."]}, {"id": "D4.9.14", "lines": ["From Hind and Rum I shall bring healers here;", "Your pain has drawn from me the bloody tear."]}, {"id": "D4.9.15", "lines": ["I shall restore to you your throne and reign,", "And, when you mend, I shall no more remain."]}, {"id": "D4.9.16", "lines": ["But I shall hang these villains by the feet,", "So all may see the justice they shall meet."]}, {"id": "D4.9.17", "lines": ["Last night, the elders spoke; my heart grew sore,", "And filled with blood, my soul in fierce uproar."]}, {"id": "D4.9.18", "lines": ["We spring from one old root, one royal line;", "Why should ambition sever yours from mine?”"]}, {"id": "D4.9.19", "lines": ["Then Dara heard his words and softly said,", "“May perfect wisdom guard your heart and head."]}, {"id": "D4.9.20", "lines": ["I know the holy Judge who rules above", "Will grant reward for every word of love."]}, {"id": "D4.9.21", "lines": ["You say you will Iran to me restore,", "With crown and throne as in the days before."]}, {"id": "D4.9.22", "lines": ["But death is nearer than the throne I knew;", "My throne is empty, fortune fallen too."]}, {"id": "D4.9.23", "lines": ["High heaven turns all profit into loss,", "And changes earthly splendor into dross."]}, {"id": "D4.9.24", "lines": ["Look well at me; let not your pride proclaim", "That you surpass these men of noble name."]}, {"id": "D4.9.25", "lines": ["Know good and evil both proceed from God;", "Praise Him, whatever paths your feet have trod."]}, {"id": "D4.9.26", "lines": ["I stand as proof of all that I have said:", "My life supplies a lesson, plainly read."]}, {"id": "D4.9.27", "lines": ["Such kingship, wealth, and greatness were my own;", "No other man had such a portion known."]}, {"id": "D4.9.28", "lines": ["My weapons, armies, horses; what a store!", "My throne and crown; what wealth was mine before!"]}, {"id": "D4.9.29", "lines": ["My children, kindred; what a grieving train,", "With wounded hearts and spirits seared by pain!"]}, {"id": "D4.9.30", "lines": ["The earth and time once bowed before my might,", "While fortune filled my empire with its light."]}, {"id": "D4.9.31", "lines": ["But now each earthly good has been withdrawn;", "In killers’ hands I lie, my fortune gone."]}, {"id": "D4.9.32", "lines": ["No hope in child or kinsman meets my sight;", "The world turns black, my failing eyes turn white."]}, {"id": "D4.9.33", "lines": ["No kindred stand beside me in my need;", "I trust alone in what Yazdan decreed."]}, {"id": "D4.9.34", "lines": ["Thus broken, I lie bleeding in the clay,", "Caught in destruction’s snare, a helpless prey."]}, {"id": "D4.9.35", "lines": ["Such is the custom of the circling sky:", "Both Shah and Pahlevan are born to die."]}, {"id": "D4.9.36", "lines": ["The longest reign must end with failing breath;", "Life is the quarry, hunted down by death.”"]}, {"id": "D4.9.37", "lines": ["Iskandar’s eyes rained blood upon the clay", "Where Dara, wounded past all healing, lay."]}, {"id": "D4.9.38", "lines": ["The dying Shah beheld his sorrow’s trace:", "The bloody teardrops on his yellow face."]}, {"id": "D4.9.39", "lines": ["“Weep not; such tears can bring no gain to me;", "From all my fire, but smoke is left to see."]}, {"id": "D4.9.40", "lines": ["Such was the portion that the Giver chose,", "And all my radiant days have reached their close."]}, {"id": "D4.9.41", "lines": ["Now heed the counsels that I shall declare,", "And guard them in your heart with constant care.”"]}, {"id": "D4.9.42", "lines": ["Iskandar said, “Declare your final choice;", "I pledge myself to heed your dying voice.”"]}, {"id": "D4.9.43", "lines": ["Then Dara spoke, recounting all his will:", "“Fear God, who rules the valley and the hill."]}, {"id": "D4.9.44", "lines": ["He formed the heavens, earth, and passing time,", "The weak and strong, in majesty sublime."]}, {"id": "D4.9.45", "lines": ["My children, kin, and women wise of heart:", "Protect them all and play a guardian’s part."]}, {"id": "D4.9.46", "lines": ["Take my chaste daughter as your royal bride,", "And let her share your throne with joy and pride."]}, {"id": "D4.9.47", "lines": ["Her mother named her Roshanak; her birth", "Brought gladness and delight to all the earth."]}, {"id": "D4.9.48", "lines": ["No shame shall touch you through this royal child;", "No taunt from foes shall leave your name defiled."]}, {"id": "D4.9.49", "lines": ["Reared by great kings, she shines among the great,", "Their crowning ornament at feasts of state."]}, {"id": "D4.9.50", "lines": ["Perhaps from her shall come a prince of fame,", "Who shall renew Esfandiyar’s great name."]}, {"id": "D4.9.51", "lines": ["He shall tend Zardosht’s fire throughout the land,", "And take the Zand-Avesta in his hand."]}, {"id": "D4.9.52", "lines": ["Through him the Sadeh feast shall burn more bright,", "With Nowruz and the fire-temple’s sacred light."]}, {"id": "D4.9.53", "lines": ["Ormozd, Mah, Khur, and Mehr he shall uphold,", "And keep their honors as in days of old."]}, {"id": "D4.9.54", "lines": ["He shall wash soul and face in wisdom’s stream,", "And honor all that Lohrasp held supreme."]}, {"id": "D4.9.55", "lines": ["The faith of Goshtasb shall his heart sustain,", "And each shall keep his rank throughout his reign."]}, {"id": "D4.9.56", "lines": ["He shall relight the Faith in future days,", "And live in righteousness and earn men’s praise.”"]}, {"id": "D4.9.57", "lines": ["Iskandar heard and answered from his heart,", "“O noble Shah, I shall perform each part."]}, {"id": "D4.9.58", "lines": ["I take your counsels; in this land I stand", "Within the bounds your final words command."]}, {"id": "D4.9.59", "lines": ["Each act of goodness I shall make my own,", "With God my guide in all that you have shown.”"]}, {"id": "D4.9.60", "lines": ["The dying monarch grasped Iskandar’s hand,", "And raised a wail across the blood-stained land."]}, {"id": "D4.9.61", "lines": ["He placed that palm against his mouth to pray:", "“May God protect and keep you on your way."]}, {"id": "D4.9.62", "lines": ["I yield my throne to you and turn to clay;", "To holy God I give my soul today.”"]}, {"id": "D4.9.63", "lines": ["He spoke no more; his spirit took its flight,", "And all around him wept at that sad sight."]}, {"id": "D4.9.64", "lines": ["Iskandar tore his robes, as mourners must,", "And strewed the Kayanian crown with dust."]}, {"id": "D4.9.65", "lines": ["He built a tomb to suit the monarch’s creed,", "His glory and the rites his faith decreed."]}, {"id": "D4.9.66", "lines": ["They washed off blood with rosewater, and wept;", "The time had come when he forever slept."]}, {"id": "D4.9.67", "lines": ["They dressed him in rich Roman silk brocade,", "With jewels and gold upon his form displayed."]}, {"id": "D4.9.68", "lines": ["They covered all his body, pale and white,", "With fragrant camphor, veiling it from sight."]}, {"id": "D4.9.69", "lines": ["They set a golden throne to hold the dead,", "And placed a musk-sweet crown upon his head."]}, {"id": "D4.9.70", "lines": ["They laid him in a coffin wrought of gold;", "Iskandar’s bloody tears his sorrow told."]}, {"id": "D4.9.71", "lines": ["They lifted up the coffin from its stand,", "And all the mourners laid their hand on hand."]}, {"id": "D4.9.72", "lines": ["Iskandar walked ahead, bowed down with pain;", "The weeping nobles followed in the train."]}, {"id": "D4.9.73", "lines": ["He reached the tomb with grief so fierce within,", "It seemed that anguish split his very skin."]}, {"id": "D4.9.74", "lines": ["The coffin on the throne, the tomb was sealed", "By royal custom, Dara’s form concealed."]}, {"id": "D4.9.75", "lines": ["Outside the tomb he raised two gibbets high,", "For those who made the wounded monarch die."]}, {"id": "D4.9.76", "lines": ["Alive, head-down, they hung upon each spar;", "The chiefs, Janusiyar and Mahiyar."]}, {"id": "D4.9.77", "lines": ["From all the army men came, stone in hand;", "They stoned the pair before the gathered band."]}, {"id": "D4.9.78", "lines": ["So perish all who strike a monarch down;", "Such be the fate of traitors to the crown."]}, {"id": "D4.9.79", "lines": ["When Iran’s warriors saw the grief he bore", "For Dara, fallen king they served before,"]}, {"id": "D4.9.80", "lines": ["They praised Iskandar’s worth with one accord,", "And hailed him ruler, earth’s acknowledged lord."]}, {"id": "D4.10.1", "lines": ["From Kerman came a messenger one day", "To Isfahan, where Iran’s chieftains lay."]}, {"id": "D4.10.2", "lines": ["A man of standing came before them all,", "The royal women in their sheltered hall."]}, {"id": "D4.10.3", "lines": ["He brought Iskandar’s greetings to their court,", "And gave of Dara’s fate a full report."]}, {"id": "D4.10.4", "lines": ["He gave the king’s words: “When a just king dies,", "No joy in friend or foe’s sad heart can rise."]}, {"id": "D4.10.5", "lines": ["Know that today I stand in Dara’s place;", "Though he is hidden, here you see my face."]}, {"id": "D4.10.6", "lines": ["Far greater favors wait beneath my reign;", "Scratch not your cheeks in sorrow and in pain."]}, {"id": "D4.10.7", "lines": ["Both king and soldier tread the road to death,", "Though long or brief the span of mortal breath."]}, {"id": "D4.10.8", "lines": ["Bring all your household goods to Istakhr’s side,", "And in your kinship with us take fresh pride."]}, {"id": "D4.10.9", "lines": ["Iran remains as it has stood before;", "May health and gladness now your hearts restore.”"]}, {"id": "D4.10.10", "lines": ["They wrote to every province, prince, and peer,", "To make the western ruler’s purpose clear."]}, {"id": "D4.10.11", "lines": ["The scroll was from Iskandar, Faylaqus’ son,", "World-conqueror, whom vengeful foes would shun."]}, {"id": "D4.10.12", "lines": ["The scroll was sent to potentates of might,", "And horsemen, all well trained and armed for fight."]}, {"id": "D4.10.13", "lines": ["He sent the Mobadan a scroll of peace,", "With praise and blessings, bidding discord cease."]}, {"id": "D4.10.14", "lines": ["“From Kayanian king to Iran’s men of skill,”", "The heading read, announcing royal will."]}, {"id": "D4.10.15", "lines": ["The pen of Chin, with ambergris imbued,", "Began with praise and words of gratitude."]}, {"id": "D4.10.16", "lines": ["He praised the just Creator, Lord of might,", "Who made the world, both veiled and plain to sight."]}, {"id": "D4.10.17", "lines": ["From kaf and nun; His “Be”; two worlds arose;", "What stands against the order He bestows?"]}, {"id": "D4.10.18", "lines": ["Behold the moving heavens He commands;", "All power and wisdom rest within His hands."]}, {"id": "D4.10.19", "lines": ["Whatever He commands shall come to be;", "He is the king; His servants all are we."]}, {"id": "D4.10.20", "lines": ["“From Him, my greetings go to men of worth,", "Each in his rank among the men of earth."]}, {"id": "D4.10.21", "lines": ["Seek good repute and learning, justice too;", "Let these be all the world bequeaths to you."]}, {"id": "D4.10.22", "lines": ["Amid my triumph, sorrow clouds my day,", "And mourning drives my festival away."]}, {"id": "D4.10.23", "lines": ["I swear by Him who lights the sun on high,", "I never wished to see great Dara die."]}, {"id": "D4.10.24", "lines": ["His own retainers struck the fatal blow;", "No foreign hand had laid the monarch low."]}, {"id": "D4.10.25", "lines": ["Now God has made the evildoer bear", "The evil he devised; a fitting share."]}, {"id": "D4.10.26", "lines": ["Seek justice and obey; your lives must stand", "As pledges to the covenant I command."]}, {"id": "D4.10.27", "lines": ["Seek heaven’s fortune; I shall grant you gold,", "Slaves, crowns, and thrones for you to have and hold."]}, {"id": "D4.10.28", "lines": ["I mourn the Shah whose royal life is done,", "And honor every wish of Darab’s son."]}, {"id": "D4.10.29", "lines": ["Whoever leaves his home to seek my court", "Shall gain high honors, gifts, and full support."]}, {"id": "D4.10.30", "lines": ["But one who chooses in his house to stay", "Must never turn his loyalty away."]}, {"id": "D4.10.31", "lines": ["Send to my treasury the rightful due,", "And no one shall inflict a wrong on you."]}, {"id": "D4.10.32", "lines": ["Strike silver coins that bear Iskandar’s name,", "And keep our covenant, and shun all shame."]}, {"id": "D4.10.33", "lines": ["Maintain the kingdom’s seats of old renown,", "By ancient custom fitting to the crown."]}, {"id": "D4.10.34", "lines": ["Set guards within the markets of the land,", "Who speak our name and carry our command."]}, {"id": "D4.10.35", "lines": ["Set watchmen on your borders, keep them strong,", "And show your worth in shielding them from wrong."]}, {"id": "D4.10.36", "lines": ["Thus shall no robber bring you grief or fear;", "Live glad at heart, with profit year by year."]}, {"id": "D4.10.37", "lines": ["From every city send a bondmaid fair,", "Modest in manner, fit to serve, aware."]}, {"id": "D4.10.38", "lines": ["Fit for our golden chambers, she must know", "The worship that to our own faith we owe."]}, {"id": "D4.10.39", "lines": ["Let her not leave distressed or sad of mind;", "No slave must suffer treatment harsh, unkind."]}, {"id": "D4.10.40", "lines": ["Send her among our servants, there to dwell", "Within our women’s quarters, serving well."]}, {"id": "D4.10.41", "lines": ["Distinguish holy wanderers through the land,", "Who go on foot and fast, a humble band."]}, {"id": "D4.10.42", "lines": ["Their hearts are pure; they bear the Sufi name,", "Content in poverty, and free of shame."]}, {"id": "D4.10.43", "lines": ["Let them stand foremost on our rolls of grace;", "Among petitioners, give them first place."]}, {"id": "D4.10.44", "lines": ["If an official harms a man in need,", "And makes him suffer through a wrongful deed,"]}, {"id": "D4.10.45", "lines": ["Then break the oppressor’s heart and back outright,", "Uproot his branch and root, destroy his might."]}, {"id": "D4.10.46", "lines": ["The wretch shall hang alive who failed to know", "What end from his own evil start would grow."]}, {"id": "D4.10.47", "lines": ["Enrich your hearts with charity and right,", "And let nobility become your light."]}, {"id": "D4.10.48", "lines": ["Our days must pass, however long we stay;", "Time counts our steps along the mortal way."]}, {"id": "D4.10.49", "lines": ["Whoever dares to break our royal word", "Shall meet the punishment his deeds incurred.”"]}, {"id": "D4.10.50", "lines": ["The letter sent, he turned to rule the land,", "And held the world in peace beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "D4.10.51", "lines": ["From Kerman to Istakhr he made his way,", "And wore the Kayanian crown that day."]}, {"id": "D4.10.52", "lines": ["Seek not to pry into the world’s design;", "It turns from those who search for every sign."]}, {"id": "D4.10.53", "lines": ["Make knowledge in this life your chief pursuit,", "For in the next you shall enjoy its fruit."]}]}, {"id": "D5", "title": "The Iskandar Cycle", "summary": "40 sections · 1,908 couplets", "path": "/poem/d5/", "couplets": [{"id": "D5.1.1", "lines": ["Iskandar took the throne: “May wisdom stay", "With kings, lest royal rule should go astray."]}, {"id": "D5.1.2", "lines": ["God grants the victory; that king does wrong", "Who fears Him not, however great and strong."]}, {"id": "D5.1.3", "lines": ["Our good and ill shall pass; no earthly power", "Can free us from Time’s grasp a single hour."]}, {"id": "D5.1.4", "lines": ["Whoever comes before us to complain", "Of wrongs we do shall surely justice gain."]}, {"id": "D5.1.5", "lines": ["At audience-time or in the dark of night,", "His words shall win redress and set things right."]}, {"id": "D5.1.6", "lines": ["For God has granted glory to our state,", "And opened wide good fortune’s welcome gate."]}, {"id": "D5.1.7", "lines": ["Let all my subjects share this gift with me,", "In mountain, desert, city, and at sea."]}, {"id": "D5.1.8", "lines": ["We shall demand no tribute from the land", "For five full years beneath our just command,"]}, {"id": "D5.1.9", "lines": ["Save from those claiming equal royal state,", "Who hold their sovereign rank to be as great."]}, {"id": "D5.1.10", "lines": ["We shall bestow rich gifts on those in need,", "And leave the wealthy of all tribute freed.”"]}, {"id": "D5.1.11", "lines": ["When he had spoken thus of justice true,", "His heart embraced the good he pledged to do."]}, {"id": "D5.1.12", "lines": ["From Iran rose their praise of royal worth;", "They blessed the just king, ruler of the earth."]}, {"id": "D5.1.13", "lines": ["Then all the gathered nobles went their way;", "The king and his advisers chose to stay."]}, {"id": "D5.2.1", "lines": ["He called a scribe; the letter was begun", "With pens from Rum, on silk of Chin, fine-spun."]}, {"id": "D5.2.2", "lines": ["The scribe to Roshanak’s own mother wrote,", "To Dalaray, and thus began the note:"]}, {"id": "D5.2.3", "lines": ["“May God grant peace of mind after your pain,", "And grant the just reward the good attain."]}, {"id": "D5.2.4", "lines": ["I wrote before and sent advice to you,", "With fuller counsel than I now renew."]}, {"id": "D5.2.5", "lines": ["When fortune turned against your royal mate,", "A faithless servant sealed his mortal fate."]}, {"id": "D5.2.6", "lines": ["I wrapped him in a shroud befitting kings,", "And laid him free of pain and earthly things."]}, {"id": "D5.2.7", "lines": ["Before the war I often sought for peace,", "But he refused; his days were soon to cease."]}, {"id": "D5.2.8", "lines": ["His very foes lamented him that day;", "May God to Paradise direct his way."]}, {"id": "D5.2.9", "lines": ["May God among the righteous grant him rest,", "And poisoned arrows pierce the ill-wisher’s breast."]}, {"id": "D5.2.10", "lines": ["No one escapes Death’s grasp; its autumn blast", "Sweeps us like leaves that cannot long hold fast."]}, {"id": "D5.2.11", "lines": ["The world is yours; the witnesses attest", "To Dara’s counsel and his last request:"]}, {"id": "D5.2.12", "lines": ["How Dara gave fair Roshanak as bride,", "And said, ‘She is fit to be at your side.’"]}, {"id": "D5.2.13", "lines": ["With nurses, servants, nobles of the land,", "Send her from Iran with that honored band."]}, {"id": "D5.2.14", "lines": ["So, send her to my court without delay,", "To clear the darkness from my soul, I pray."]}, {"id": "D5.2.15", "lines": ["Keep Isfahan; its former rule maintain,", "With skilled officials serving its domain."]}, {"id": "D5.2.16", "lines": ["Keep every honest governor secure,", "Whom Dara named to office, just and pure."]}, {"id": "D5.2.17", "lines": ["In any city in Iran you may dwell,", "Wherever peace and comfort serve you well."]}, {"id": "D5.2.18", "lines": ["Be reconciled and let the world proclaim", "That I now stand in Dara’s royal name.”"]}, {"id": "D5.2.19", "lines": ["He wrote as well to Dara’s daughter bright,", "And warmed his words with tenderness and light."]}, {"id": "D5.2.20", "lines": ["He praised the wise Creator, whose command", "Sustains the world and rules on every hand."]}, {"id": "D5.2.21", "lines": ["He said: “From royal lineage none arise", "But those of virtue, pure in conduct, wise."]}, {"id": "D5.2.22", "lines": ["You charm with modesty and judgment clear,", "With gentle voice and speech that please the ear."]}, {"id": "D5.2.23", "lines": ["Your father placed you in my care; his name", "Survives his death in honor and in fame."]}, {"id": "D5.2.24", "lines": ["When you arrive before my palace gate,", "You shall behold your home and queenly state."]}, {"id": "D5.2.25", "lines": ["First of my ladies, you shall grace the crown,", "The armlet, ivory throne of high renown."]}, {"id": "D5.2.26", "lines": ["I wrote your mother: let her come to me", "With all the honors fitting her degree."]}, {"id": "D5.2.27", "lines": ["As fits a king’s own daughter’s high estate,", "Isfahan’s Mobad leads you to our gate."]}, {"id": "D5.2.28", "lines": ["Bring maids, crown, elephants, and litter too,", "And her whose milk and honey nourished you."]}, {"id": "D5.2.29", "lines": ["Dwell in my palace, honored at my side,", "Glad-hearted, first of ladies, as my bride."]}, {"id": "D5.2.30", "lines": ["May modesty remain your constant grace,", "And royal chambers be your dwelling-place.”"]}, {"id": "D5.3.1", "lines": ["A bold philosopher arrived to bring", "And then recount the message of the king."]}, {"id": "D5.3.2", "lines": ["When Dalaray received Iskandar’s word,", "A heavy sigh from her sad breast was heard."]}, {"id": "D5.3.3", "lines": ["For Dara, buried now beneath the clay,", "She shed red tears of blood in her dismay."]}, {"id": "D5.3.4", "lines": ["She called a skillful scribe and spoke her will,", "While bloody tears upon her cheeks flowed still."]}, {"id": "D5.3.5", "lines": ["She had a fitting answer penned and wrought", "With weighty words of promise, deeply thought."]}, {"id": "D5.3.6", "lines": ["She praised the just God, Lord of peace and art,", "And counsel that gives wisdom to the heart."]}, {"id": "D5.3.7", "lines": ["She wrote: “From Him who formed the turning skies", "Both war and peace and bonds of love arise."]}, {"id": "D5.3.8", "lines": ["We sought for Dara glory and acclaim,", "And graced our tongues by speaking of his name."]}, {"id": "D5.3.9", "lines": ["But now his time has passed; the royal seat", "Is coffin-wood, his reign at last complete."]}, {"id": "D5.3.10", "lines": ["I wish you goodness, fortune, kingly power,", "And greatness in the world that grows each hour."]}, {"id": "D5.3.11", "lines": ["I wish the world to move at your command;", "I speak it plainly, so you understand."]}, {"id": "D5.3.12", "lines": ["I heard your kindly words; may heaven rejoice", "In you, whose soul has given them a voice."]}, {"id": "D5.3.13", "lines": ["I heard of Dara’s tomb, the gallows high,", "Where Mahiyar and Janusiyar came to die."]}, {"id": "D5.3.14", "lines": ["Brief is the life of him who draws the blade,", "To strike the master whom his vows obeyed."]}, {"id": "D5.3.15", "lines": ["You sought for peace before the battle’s day,", "For days you counseled him to turn away."]}, {"id": "D5.3.16", "lines": ["But kings are not accustomed to bend low;", "None bids a crowned king serve another so."]}, {"id": "D5.3.17", "lines": ["You take our Shah’s place; our Sun is no more,", "And you, our Moon, shine where he shone before."]}, {"id": "D5.3.18", "lines": ["May nothing thwart your wishes, great or small;", "May your name live upon each palace wall."]}, {"id": "D5.3.19", "lines": ["At Roshanak’s betrothal we rejoice;", "Our hearts are gladdened by that welcome choice."]}, {"id": "D5.3.20", "lines": ["She is your handmaid; we obey your will,", "And bow our heads, your servants, faithful still."]}, {"id": "D5.3.21", "lines": ["She sends her greeting, with a letter wise,", "Fair as a garden grown in Paradise."]}, {"id": "D5.3.22", "lines": ["Since he who ruled the age has chosen you,", "None dares oppose what he resolved to do."]}, {"id": "D5.3.23", "lines": ["We wrote to chiefs and Pahlevans of might,", "To noble warriors trained in armed fight."]}, {"id": "D5.3.24", "lines": ["Your word is Dara’s word throughout the land,", "And none shall break their pledge to heed your command.”"]}, {"id": "D5.3.25", "lines": ["She gave the envoy purses, slaves, and gold,", "And gifts of every kind her vaults could hold."]}, {"id": "D5.3.26", "lines": ["The Roman to Iskandar’s camp returned,", "And told him all he witnessed and had learned."]}, {"id": "D5.3.27", "lines": ["The throne, the rites, the court were so maintained,", "It seemed the Shah still lived and there remained."]}, {"id": "D5.3.28", "lines": ["Iskandar heard with joy the news they bore;", "The Kayanian crown he calmly took and wore."]}, {"id": "D5.4.1", "lines": ["From Amuriyah he called his mother near,", "And spoke the words of Dara for her ear."]}, {"id": "D5.4.2", "lines": ["He said: “Go now to Dalaray, and bear", "Kind words about the marriage we prepare."]}, {"id": "D5.4.3", "lines": ["See Roshanak in her secluded place,", "And give her blessings from me, full of grace."]}, {"id": "D5.4.4", "lines": ["Take torque and armlet, earrings, and a crown", "Of royal gems befitting her renown."]}, {"id": "D5.4.5", "lines": ["A hundred camels, furnishings to bear;", "Ten more with Roman brocade, rich and rare."]}, {"id": "D5.4.6", "lines": ["For scattering, let purse on purse enfold", "Full thirty thousand treasury coins of gold."]}, {"id": "D5.4.7", "lines": ["Take three hundred maids of Rum in your train,", "And more if needed as you cross the plain."]}, {"id": "D5.4.8", "lines": ["Give each a golden goblet for her hand,", "To serve beside the Shah at his command."]}, {"id": "D5.4.9", "lines": ["Take trusted servants to protect your way,", "And spare no splendor in the grand display.”"]}, {"id": "D5.4.10", "lines": ["With her interpreter she left to ride;", "Ten well-spoken sages journeyed at her side."]}, {"id": "D5.4.11", "lines": ["As she approached fair Isfahan’s domain,", "The nobles came to meet her on the plain."]}, {"id": "D5.4.12", "lines": ["Then Dalaray came from her palace gate,", "With nobles, as their customs would dictate."]}, {"id": "D5.4.13", "lines": ["They scattered gifts within the entrance hall", "Till silver seemed of little worth to all."]}, {"id": "D5.4.14", "lines": ["The chieftains gathered where the palace rose,", "And sat with counselors in ordered rows."]}, {"id": "D5.4.15", "lines": ["She made such wedding-gear that street and mart", "Seemed filled with life in every busy part."]}, {"id": "D5.4.16", "lines": ["For farsangs, camels stretched along the road,", "With gold and silver, colors in their load."]}, {"id": "D5.4.17", "lines": ["They carried hangings, robes, and carpets rolled,", "And goods to scatter, more than hands could hold."]}, {"id": "D5.4.18", "lines": ["There were fine Arab steeds in golden gear,", "And Indian swords in golden scabbards near,"]}, {"id": "D5.4.19", "lines": ["With heavy helms, bargostvan for each horse,", "And jowshans, golden gorzes of great force."]}, {"id": "D5.4.20", "lines": ["Both cut and uncut cloth were piled so high", "That no one knew such wealth beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.4.21", "lines": ["Then palace servants gathered by the gate,", "And forty golden litters stood to wait."]}, {"id": "D5.4.22", "lines": ["With parasol and servants round her seat,", "Sat Roshanak, her happiness complete."]}, {"id": "D5.4.23", "lines": ["For half the road from her mother’s home there flowed", "Gold, silver, brocades, steeds, caps on the road."]}, {"id": "D5.4.24", "lines": ["When Roshanak drew near to Mesr’s gate,", "They came to greet her, all, of high estate."]}, {"id": "D5.4.25", "lines": ["They decked the town with ornaments of art;", "A smile on every lip hid grief of heart."]}, {"id": "D5.4.26", "lines": ["They showered silver on her parasol,", "And sifted pure musk down before them all."]}, {"id": "D5.4.27", "lines": ["When that bright Moon arrived within his sight,", "The Shah observed her beauty with delight."]}, {"id": "D5.4.28", "lines": ["He marked her stately bearing, wise and fair,", "As though fond Wisdom raised her with such care."]}, {"id": "D5.4.29", "lines": ["The mother placed her on a throne of gold;", "Iskandar’s love and soul were hers to hold."]}, {"id": "D5.4.30", "lines": ["He passed a week conversing by her side,", "And sought her counsel as a royal guide."]}, {"id": "D5.4.31", "lines": ["He found her wise and modest, fit for state,", "Composed and noble, worthy to be great."]}, {"id": "D5.4.32", "lines": ["He looked and found no fault in her to blame;", "His heart grew warmer in affection’s flame."]}, {"id": "D5.4.33", "lines": ["From Iran came rich offerings to behold,", "With royal gems and shining coins of gold."]}, {"id": "D5.4.34", "lines": ["From Iran, Turan, Chin the blessings came,", "And hailed his kingship and his royal fame."]}, {"id": "D5.4.35", "lines": ["His reign brought justice everywhere to men;", "And ruined places came to life again."]}, {"id": "D5.5.1", "lines": ["A teller of the tales preserved of old", "Now brings a wonder worthy to be told."]}, {"id": "D5.5.2", "lines": ["There once ruled Kayd, a king of Hind renowned,", "Whom wisdom, insight, happiness had crowned."]}, {"id": "D5.5.3", "lines": ["A sage at heart, his mind a chieftain’s own,", "With Mobad’s glory on Kayanian throne."]}, {"id": "D5.5.4", "lines": ["For ten long nights strange dreams disturbed his bed;", "Each heavy omen filled his heart with dread."]}, {"id": "D5.5.5", "lines": ["The wisest men of Hindustan combined,", "To learn what future these strange signs outlined."]}, {"id": "D5.5.6", "lines": ["The counselors and sages met the call,", "To hear the dreams recounted in the hall."]}, {"id": "D5.5.7", "lines": ["The king laid every dream before the wise,", "And brought to light the secrets they disguise."]}, {"id": "D5.5.8", "lines": ["Not one could tell what any dream foretold;", "Their faces paled, their hearts with worry cold."]}, {"id": "D5.5.9", "lines": ["Then spoke a sage: “O master of the state,", "Heir to the wisdom of the good and great,"]}, {"id": "D5.5.10", "lines": ["There is a famous one, Mehran by name,", "Who has attained the height of lettered fame."]}, {"id": "D5.5.11", "lines": ["He will not sleep or rest within a town,", "Among wild creatures he must settle down."]}, {"id": "D5.5.12", "lines": ["He feeds on seeds the mountain plants provide,", "And lives with beasts upon the mountainside."]}, {"id": "D5.5.13", "lines": ["He does not count us as his fellow men,", "Nor seek our company in field or glen."]}, {"id": "D5.5.14", "lines": ["His home is with wild sheep and deer that roam,", "Beyond men’s power to harm him in his home."]}, {"id": "D5.5.15", "lines": ["No harm can touch him in his lonely state;", "Devout is he and blessed by lofty fate.”"]}, {"id": "D5.5.16", "lines": ["The monarch said: “We must not pass him by,", "A holy man whom Heaven holds so high.”"]}, {"id": "D5.5.17", "lines": ["Moved by the hermit’s fame, the king arose,", "And mounted on the finest steed he chose."]}, {"id": "D5.5.18", "lines": ["His scholars followed in a noble train,", "To soothe his troubled heart and ease its pain."]}, {"id": "D5.5.19", "lines": ["The Shah approached the mountain where he dwelt,", "And greeted him with courtesy heartfelt:"]}, {"id": "D5.5.20", "lines": ["“O worshipper of God, who makes his home", "Upon the heights where sheep in freedom roam,"]}, {"id": "D5.5.21", "lines": ["Attend these dreams, consider every one,", "And tell their meanings when my tale is done."]}, {"id": "D5.5.22", "lines": ["Know that one night, within my chamber deep,", "I laid my limbs to rest in peaceful sleep."]}, {"id": "D5.5.23", "lines": ["A vast house rose; no door appeared in sight,", "Where stood a giant elephant of might."]}, {"id": "D5.5.24", "lines": ["It found a narrow opening in the wall,", "And passed out safely from the palace hall."]}, {"id": "D5.5.25", "lines": ["Its massive bulk went through the straitened space,", "Yet left its trunk behind within the place."]}, {"id": "D5.5.26", "lines": ["Next night I saw the royal seat and found", "It bare of anyone by fortune crowned."]}, {"id": "D5.5.27", "lines": ["Another king then took that throne of white,", "And set upon his head a crown of light."]}, {"id": "D5.5.28", "lines": ["The third night, sleep came swiftly, and I dreamed", "Of finely woven cloth whose surface gleamed."]}, {"id": "D5.5.29", "lines": ["Four men hung on the cloth and strained and drew;", "Their faces from the pulling turned dark blue."]}, {"id": "D5.5.30", "lines": ["Not one grew weary, though they pulled and bent;", "The cloth held fast and whole, without a rent."]}, {"id": "D5.5.31", "lines": ["Upon the fourth, O sage of holy grace,", "I saw a thirsty man in some wild place."]}, {"id": "D5.5.32", "lines": ["Beside a stream he stood with thirst and dread,", "While fish poured water down upon his head."]}, {"id": "D5.5.33", "lines": ["He fled the water, springing far and wide;", "The stream pursued him, running at his side."]}, {"id": "D5.5.34", "lines": ["The fifth night brought a city near a stream,", "Whose people all were sightless in my dream."]}, {"id": "D5.5.35", "lines": ["Yet none showed anger at his blinded eyes,", "Nor let his sightless state give wrath its rise."]}, {"id": "D5.5.36", "lines": ["The city thrived on justice, gifts, and trade,", "And glowed with all the splendor these had made."]}, {"id": "D5.5.37", "lines": ["The sixth night showed a city full of grief,", "Whose people all were sick and lacked relief."]}, {"id": "D5.5.38", "lines": ["The sick would call upon the healthy, bent", "To tend them first, on thoughtful care intent."]}, {"id": "D5.5.39", "lines": ["Though near to death, they asked, ‘What pains you so?’", "And sought a cure for suffering and woe."]}, {"id": "D5.5.40", "lines": ["Halfway through night the seventh vision spread:", "A leaping horse appeared with double head."]}, {"id": "D5.5.41", "lines": ["Two forelegs and two hind legs bore its frame;", "Each mouth consumed the grass, its fare the same."]}, {"id": "D5.5.42", "lines": ["It cropped the grass on both sides with its teeth,", "Yet had no outlet anywhere beneath."]}, {"id": "D5.5.43", "lines": ["The eighth night showed three jars set in a row;", "Hear now the marvel those three jars would show."]}, {"id": "D5.5.44", "lines": ["The outer two were brimming to the top;", "The central one was dry without a drop."]}, {"id": "D5.5.45", "lines": ["Two good men poured cold water, bright and clear,", "Into the middle jar that stood so near."]}, {"id": "D5.5.46", "lines": ["The outer jars lost nothing of their store;", "The middle stayed as dry as long before."]}, {"id": "D5.5.47", "lines": ["The ninth night showed a cow beside a stream,", "On grass beneath the sun within my dream."]}, {"id": "D5.5.48", "lines": ["A gaunt and wizened calf stood there to feed", "Its mother, who drew milk for each day’s need."]}, {"id": "D5.5.49", "lines": ["The mother cow was strong, her body great;", "The little calf was in a feeble state."]}, {"id": "D5.5.50", "lines": ["Now hear the tenth; be patient while I tell", "This final dream and all that there befell:"]}, {"id": "D5.5.51", "lines": ["A spring lay in a plain of ample spread,", "With lofty halls and a palace overhead."]}, {"id": "D5.5.52", "lines": ["Its waters reached the lands on every side,", "Yet in my dream the source itself was dried."]}, {"id": "D5.5.53", "lines": ["Reveal the future, tell me what it means,", "And tear the veil that hides these shifting scenes.”"]}, {"id": "D5.5.54", "lines": ["Mehran replied: “Dismiss your heavy fear;", "No ruin shall approach your kingdom here."]}, {"id": "D5.5.55", "lines": ["Iskandar comes with legions in his train,", "And chiefs of Rum and of the Iranian plain."]}, {"id": "D5.5.56", "lines": ["If you would keep your honor whole and bright,", "Use wisdom; do not challenge him in fight."]}, {"id": "D5.5.57", "lines": ["Four unique treasures rest within your hand,", "Whose equals are unknown in any land:"]}, {"id": "D5.5.58", "lines": ["Your daughter first, a maiden fair and wise,", "Whose beauty shines like light from paradise;"]}, {"id": "D5.5.59", "lines": ["Your hidden sage, whose learning can impart", "The secrets of the world to every heart;"]}, {"id": "D5.5.60", "lines": ["Your famed physician, learned in healing lore,", "Whose knowledge wins him honor more and more;"]}, {"id": "D5.5.61", "lines": ["And fourth, a cup whose water knows no heat", "From fire or sun, however fierce they beat."]}, {"id": "D5.5.62", "lines": ["Its water never lessens as you drink;", "Through these four gifts, your honor need not sink."]}, {"id": "D5.5.63", "lines": ["When Caesar comes, yield all four to his hand,", "And he will turn away and spare your land."]}, {"id": "D5.5.64", "lines": ["His troops and means of war surpass your own;", "You cannot match the splendor of his throne."]}, {"id": "D5.5.65", "lines": ["Now hear good counsel, cast away your fear;", "The meaning of each dream I shall make clear:"]}, {"id": "D5.5.66", "lines": ["That house denotes the world; the beast you saw", "Denotes a thankless king who scorns the law."]}, {"id": "D5.5.67", "lines": ["His crooked speech and deeds put right to shame;", "Apart from wrong, he bears but kingship’s name."]}, {"id": "D5.5.68", "lines": ["The second showed your throne and crown made bright,", "When fortune brought another king to sight."]}, {"id": "D5.5.69", "lines": ["Such is the world: the power one calls his own", "Will pass away; another takes the throne."]}, {"id": "D5.5.70", "lines": ["His heart is base, his body weak and worn,", "His spirit dark, by greed and craving torn."]}, {"id": "D5.5.71", "lines": ["His subjects flourish, while his heart knows grief;", "His lips make empty boasts beyond belief."]}, {"id": "D5.5.72", "lines": ["The third dream showed the cloth without a rent;", "Four men kept pulling yet were never spent."]}, {"id": "D5.5.73", "lines": ["That cloth is God’s religion, firmly spread;", "Its four opposing pullers hold each thread."]}, {"id": "D5.5.74", "lines": ["The first, the dehqan, tends the sacred fire,", "And holds the sacred twigs his rites require."]}, {"id": "D5.5.75", "lines": ["The next is Moses’ faith, the Jewish creed,", "Which holds itself the only faith to heed."]}, {"id": "D5.5.76", "lines": ["The third, the pious Greek’s religious art,", "Puts thoughts of justice in a monarch’s heart."]}, {"id": "D5.5.77", "lines": ["The fourth, Arabian, pure in heart and hand,", "Shall raise the wise and prudent through the land."]}, {"id": "D5.5.78", "lines": ["These four shall pull the cloth in separate ways,", "And fight for their religions all their days."]}, {"id": "D5.5.79", "lines": ["Then from the plain where mounted lancers ride,", "A man shall come, with goodness as his guide:"]}, {"id": "D5.5.80", "lines": ["A pure and kindly man, who comes to lead,", "Shall spread four ways across the earth God’s creed."]}, {"id": "D5.5.81", "lines": ["The thirsty man who fled the river’s side,", "While fish poured water on him from the tide,"]}, {"id": "D5.5.82", "lines": ["Foretells a time when learning meets disdain:", "A pure man drinks, but others still abstain."]}, {"id": "D5.5.83", "lines": ["Like fish within the sea, he stays below;", "The wicked rise where the Pleiades glow."]}, {"id": "D5.5.84", "lines": ["He calls the thirsty; none will heed his plea,", "Or turn toward learning’s water, offered free."]}, {"id": "D5.5.85", "lines": ["They flee the man of knowledge and proclaim", "Their slanders in a crowd against his name."]}, {"id": "D5.5.86", "lines": ["The fifth dream showed a city, blind and bright,", "With trade and gifts that made it glow with light."]}, {"id": "D5.5.87", "lines": ["Yet none could see another’s face or form;", "Such blindness shall become the age’s norm."]}, {"id": "D5.5.88", "lines": ["It tells of times when wise men shall be slaves,", "Subjected to the rule of fools and knaves."]}, {"id": "D5.5.89", "lines": ["The learned shall be troubled in that hour;", "Their tree of wisdom bears no fruit or flower."]}, {"id": "D5.5.90", "lines": ["The ignorant shall hold the highest seat,", "While lettered men must flatter at their feet."]}, {"id": "D5.5.91", "lines": ["False words are spoken, known to be untrue;", "No light of worship shines on what they do."]}, {"id": "D5.5.92", "lines": ["The sixth showed sick men serving those still well,", "Foretelling times whose hardships I shall tell,"]}, {"id": "D5.5.93", "lines": ["When poverty is scorned and wealth is prized,", "And poor men by the rich are all despised."]}, {"id": "D5.5.94", "lines": ["The rich shall turn away from those who sue,", "And give no alms where charity is due."]}, {"id": "D5.5.95", "lines": ["The poor man serves for nothing, bound to stay,", "A slave for whom no purchaser need pay."]}, {"id": "D5.5.96", "lines": ["The horse with two heads grazing on the plain,", "Yet no way out for all its gathered gain,"]}, {"id": "D5.5.97", "lines": ["Foretells a time when men shall hoard their store,", "And never fill their hearts, but long for more."]}, {"id": "D5.5.98", "lines": ["Their stores give poor men, sages, chiefs no aid;", "For none but self is any care displayed."]}, {"id": "D5.5.99", "lines": ["The three jars, with the middle standing dry,", "Though water from the others poured nearby,"]}, {"id": "D5.5.100", "lines": ["Foretell an age when poverty knows shame,", "And bitter sorrow sets the heart aflame."]}, {"id": "D5.5.101", "lines": ["The spring cloud hides the sun yet gives no rain", "To soothe the poor man’s wounds or ease his pain."]}, {"id": "D5.5.102", "lines": ["The rich give to the rich with honeyed praise;", "Their gifts pass back and forth through all their days."]}, {"id": "D5.5.103", "lines": ["The poor man’s lips stay dry through every day,", "And through the night no comfort comes his way."]}, {"id": "D5.5.104", "lines": ["The cow that drank her calf’s milk in your sight,", "Though she was strong and he was weak and slight,"]}, {"id": "D5.5.105", "lines": ["Shows Saturn entering Libra in the sky,", "While power of arm rules all the world thereby."]}, {"id": "D5.5.106", "lines": ["The sick and poor and needy, day by day,", "Must give the healthy what they bid them pay."]}, {"id": "D5.5.107", "lines": ["The wealthy will not open up their stores,", "But turn the suffering poor from their doors."]}, {"id": "D5.5.108", "lines": ["The tenth dream, where the fountain-head was dry,", "With musk-sweet waters spread about nearby,"]}, {"id": "D5.5.109", "lines": ["Showed no fresh water rising to its flow;", "Its waters had no haste, but lingered slow."]}, {"id": "D5.5.110", "lines": ["It tells of one who wears a crown of care,", "Bereft of wisdom, darkened by despair."]}, {"id": "D5.5.111", "lines": ["His troubles darken earth from shore to shore;", "The land lies empty of his treasured store."]}, {"id": "D5.5.112", "lines": ["He raises armies, rank on rank arrayed,", "To shape a crown and see the realm obeyed."]}, {"id": "D5.5.113", "lines": ["Both king and troops shall fall; new courts arise,", "While evil costs him favor from the skies."]}, {"id": "D5.5.114", "lines": ["But our great epoch is Iskandar’s hour,", "Who holds the crown of majesty and power."]}, {"id": "D5.5.115", "lines": ["When Caesar comes, give up those treasures four,", "And he will leave your land and seek no more."]}, {"id": "D5.5.116", "lines": ["Content him, and he passes on his way,", "For wisdom guides him; he will not delay."]}, {"id": "D5.5.117", "lines": ["Among the sages none has depths so great;", "His counsel serves in every work of state.”"]}, {"id": "D5.5.118", "lines": ["King Kayd rejoiced at all the sage had said,", "And felt new life throughout his spirit spread."]}, {"id": "D5.5.119", "lines": ["He kissed the scholar’s eyes and holy head,", "And turned for home, his heart relieved of dread."]}, {"id": "D5.5.120", "lines": ["He journeyed home with peace restored to mind;", "His scholars followed, leaving grief behind."]}, {"id": "D5.6.1", "lines": ["When Iskandar surveyed Iran’s broad lands,", "And knew the realm now rested in his hands,"]}, {"id": "D5.6.2", "lines": ["He turned his banners toward King Kayd’s domain,", "By road and trackless land he led his train."]}, {"id": "D5.6.3", "lines": ["The townsmen opened every portal wide,", "Wherever he advanced in royal pride."]}, {"id": "D5.6.4", "lines": ["He held their people low and raised on high", "His helm beyond bright Venus in the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.6.5", "lines": ["He reached the mighty city on the plain,", "Named Milad, in King Kayd of Hind’s domain."]}, {"id": "D5.6.6", "lines": ["He set his camp upon that stretch of ground,", "And spread his legions through the lands around."]}, {"id": "D5.6.7", "lines": ["They called the scribe and seated him to write", "Before Iskandar, lord of royal might."]}, {"id": "D5.6.8", "lines": ["Like a fierce lion closing on its prey,", "He dictated the words he wished to say:"]}, {"id": "D5.6.9", "lines": ["“From generous Iskandar, great in power,", "With crown and belt and sword that wins the hour."]}, {"id": "D5.6.10", "lines": ["May blessings crown the man whose heart is bright,", "Washed clean by knowledge, filled with learning’s light."]}, {"id": "D5.6.11", "lines": ["He chooses work that brings the smaller pain,", "When from his toil he seeks to gather gain."]}, {"id": "D5.6.12", "lines": ["He worships God and trusts His mighty hand,", "And fears the One on whom his hopes must stand."]}, {"id": "D5.6.13", "lines": ["He knows we give the throne its strength and light,", "The shadow of the Sovereign crowned with might."]}, {"id": "D5.6.14", "lines": ["I send this letter, that your soul may see", "Its darkness lifted by these words from me."]}, {"id": "D5.6.15", "lines": ["When first the scribe has read these words to you,", "Do not delay or ponder what to do."]}, {"id": "D5.6.16", "lines": ["If this arrives by night, do not delay,", "Wait not for dawn; at once my will obey."]}, {"id": "D5.6.17", "lines": ["Defy my words, and I shall strike you down,", "And trample on your head and throne and crown.”"]}, {"id": "D5.7.1", "lines": ["When Kayd received the letter, he drew near", "To meet the royal envoy and give ear."]}, {"id": "D5.7.2", "lines": ["He praised the envoy; then, with kindly face,", "He gave him at his side an honored place."]}, {"id": "D5.7.3", "lines": ["He said: “The Shah’s commands bring me delight;", "I shall not break my pledge by day or night."]}, {"id": "D5.7.4", "lines": ["But I shall not rush there with head held high,", "Unready for the Shah’s discerning eye."]}, {"id": "D5.7.5", "lines": ["Such conduct would displease Yazdan of all,", "Nor please the Shah within his royal hall.”"]}, {"id": "D5.7.6", "lines": ["He called the scribe, who took at his command", "Silk brought from Chin, a pen from India’s land."]}, {"id": "D5.7.7", "lines": ["He wrote the answer, splendid in its guise,", "Adorned like gardens set in Paradise."]}, {"id": "D5.7.8", "lines": ["He praised the Maker, Lord of time and might,", "Who grants prosperity and fortune bright,"]}, {"id": "D5.7.9", "lines": ["Yazdan both generous and wholly just,", "Lord of brave deeds and skill, in whom we trust."]}, {"id": "D5.7.10", "lines": ["He wrote: “No pious man will turn away", "From one renowned whom kingdoms now obey."]}, {"id": "D5.7.11", "lines": ["We should withhold no gift from one whose hand", "Holds crown and sword, with legions at command."]}, {"id": "D5.7.12", "lines": ["Four things are mine, and no one else has found", "Their like, concealed or known, the whole world round."]}, {"id": "D5.7.13", "lines": ["Nor after me shall any man obtain", "Four things like these within the world’s domain."]}, {"id": "D5.7.14", "lines": ["These four I send whenever he decrees,", "To bring him fresh prosperity and ease."]}, {"id": "D5.7.15", "lines": ["Then, when the Shah commands, to him I ride,", "And serve him as a bondsman at his side.”"]}, {"id": "D5.8.1", "lines": ["The envoy came like wind to tell his news;", "He gave the king the letter to peruse."]}, {"id": "D5.8.2", "lines": ["Iskandar said to him: “Return; retrace", "Your rapid steps to that far-distant place."]}, {"id": "D5.8.3", "lines": ["Say, ‘What are these four things none else can own,", "Whether concealed or openly made known?"]}, {"id": "D5.8.4", "lines": ["We have seen all that is beneath the sun;", "The heavens will add no more to what is done.’”"]}, {"id": "D5.8.5", "lines": ["The envoy left the presence, swift as fire,", "And rode to Kayd to voice the Shah’s desire."]}, {"id": "D5.8.6", "lines": ["He said to Kayd: “These four things you possess,", "Which none else holds, as you yourself profess;"]}, {"id": "D5.8.7", "lines": ["The Shah would know what things you keep from sight;", "Not all that is has yet been brought to light.”"]}, {"id": "D5.8.8", "lines": ["Then Kayd dismissed the strangers from the place,", "And with his counselor sat face to face."]}, {"id": "D5.8.9", "lines": ["They seated there the envoy as their guest,", "And honored him with all that they thought best."]}, {"id": "D5.8.10", "lines": ["He said: “I keep within my hidden bower", "A daughter like a fresh and blooming flower."]}, {"id": "D5.8.11", "lines": ["If the high sun should gaze upon her light,", "Its own bright face would darken at the sight."]}, {"id": "D5.8.12", "lines": ["Her hair, a pitch-black kamand, downward slips;", "The scent of milk comes softly from her lips."]}, {"id": "D5.8.13", "lines": ["The cypress bends before my royal girl;", "And every word she speaks becomes a pearl."]}, {"id": "D5.8.14", "lines": ["Her face can steal the mind’s discerning light;", "Her knowledge feeds that mind and makes it bright."]}, {"id": "D5.8.15", "lines": ["When she is silent, modesty is shown;", "No equal to her beauty can be known."]}, {"id": "D5.8.16", "lines": ["Of noble stock, she offers God her praise;", "Both modesty and virtue guide her ways."]}, {"id": "D5.8.17", "lines": ["A cup is next, whose contents you may choose:", "Cold water, or the wine that you would use."]}, {"id": "D5.8.18", "lines": ["Though ten days with your fellows you remain,", "And drink, no less of wine will it contain."]}, {"id": "D5.8.19", "lines": ["It gives both wine and water from its store;", "Drink freely; it holds all it held before."]}, {"id": "D5.8.20", "lines": ["My third, a skilled physician, reads the sign", "Within a drop, the illness to define."]}, {"id": "D5.8.21", "lines": ["If at your court for years he should remain,", "You shall not writhe beneath the grip of pain."]}, {"id": "D5.8.22", "lines": ["The fourth, a wise philosopher, stays near;", "Apart from all the rest, I keep him here."]}, {"id": "D5.8.23", "lines": ["He reads the circling sun and moon’s bright glow,", "And tells the king what coming days will show.”"]}, {"id": "D5.8.24", "lines": ["The envoy then returned; the mighty king", "Felt joy unfold like flowers in the spring."]}, {"id": "D5.8.25", "lines": ["Iskandar said, “If all this tale is right,", "These four are worth the whole world in my sight."]}, {"id": "D5.8.26", "lines": ["If he should send these four, their light shall roll", "Through all the darkness dwelling in my soul."]}, {"id": "D5.8.27", "lines": ["His realm beneath my feet I will not tread;", "For this kind deed, I shall turn back instead.”"]}, {"id": "D5.9.1", "lines": ["He chose from Rum men learned, wise and sound,", "In whom no harmful purpose could be found."]}, {"id": "D5.9.2", "lines": ["He wrote a letter, gracious in its plea,", "With scent and colored art for Kayd to see."]}, {"id": "D5.9.3", "lines": ["He wrote: “Nine trusted sages, known to fame,", "World-traveled men of honor, free from blame,"]}, {"id": "D5.9.4", "lines": ["My confidants, with knowledge, modest sense,", "And skill to guide, and keen intelligence,"]}, {"id": "D5.9.5", "lines": ["I send them now to you; they will abide", "By your discerning judgment as their guide."]}, {"id": "D5.9.6", "lines": ["Show them the four and let them there remain;", "Allow their stay within your own domain."]}, {"id": "D5.9.7", "lines": ["When letters from my learned elders say", "They saw the four you promised to display,"]}, {"id": "D5.9.8", "lines": ["And testify that each before their eyes", "Was like no other seen beneath the skies,"]}, {"id": "D5.9.9", "lines": ["I shall write: ‘While life lasts, let Kayd command", "As king of Hind, the ruler of that land.’”"]}, {"id": "D5.9.10", "lines": ["The nine wise Roman sages left his side,", "And swiftly to King Kayd they chose to ride."]}, {"id": "D5.9.11", "lines": ["King Kayd then asked much of that learned crowd,", "And heard their answers spoken clear and loud."]}, {"id": "D5.9.12", "lines": ["He welcomed them with honor to his court,", "And lodged them well to make their full report."]}, {"id": "D5.9.13", "lines": ["Next day, when heaven gleamed with golden light,", "The sun unsheathed its sword to wage the fight,"]}, {"id": "D5.9.14", "lines": ["They dressed the maiden with surpassing care,", "Though moons need no adornment to be fair."]}, {"id": "D5.9.15", "lines": ["Within the bridal chamber stood the throne,", "All gold, with Chin’s adornments round it shown."]}, {"id": "D5.9.16", "lines": ["She sat sun-faced upon that throne of gold,", "And Venus seemed beside her dim and cold."]}, {"id": "D5.9.17", "lines": ["The ancient sages, clear of speech and mind,", "Drew near to view the wonder they would find."]}, {"id": "D5.9.18", "lines": ["Kayd sent them to the bride, the radiant one,", "As asked by Iskandar, Faylaqus’ son."]}, {"id": "D5.9.19", "lines": ["The elders saw her face; its splendor shone", "Upon her robe and crown and royal throne."]}, {"id": "D5.9.20", "lines": ["They stood in wonder at her stately grace;", "Their legs grew weak; they scarcely kept their place."]}, {"id": "D5.9.21", "lines": ["The nine wise elders stood with wondering gaze,", "Their tongues all filled with their Creator’s praise."]}, {"id": "D5.9.22", "lines": ["They stood stock-still beneath her beauty’s ray,", "Unable to withdraw or look away."]}, {"id": "D5.9.23", "lines": ["They lingered; someone came to end their stay,", "And called them to the king without delay."]}, {"id": "D5.9.24", "lines": ["King Kayd inquired, “Why did you tarry so?", "Was that a human face you came to know?"]}, {"id": "D5.9.25", "lines": ["From every star she had her share of light,", "And beauty shone upon her face so bright.”"]}, {"id": "D5.9.26", "lines": ["A Roman said: “No image in a hall", "Can show her like upon its painted wall."]}, {"id": "D5.9.27", "lines": ["Not one of us could take in all her face;", "No mortal can be found with such a grace."]}, {"id": "D5.9.28", "lines": ["Let each describe one feature with his pen,", "And send the Shah our written findings then.”"]}, {"id": "D5.9.29", "lines": ["They sat with paper, ink and pens to write,", "Each sage describing what had met his sight."]}, {"id": "D5.9.30", "lines": ["Each wrote of what he saw; ink filled the sheet,", "No white was left when writing was complete."]}, {"id": "D5.9.31", "lines": ["A rider sped from Milad on his way,", "To bring the king what elders had to say."]}, {"id": "D5.9.32", "lines": ["Iskandar read their letters, and he stayed", "Lost in the wonder that their words conveyed;"]}, {"id": "D5.9.33", "lines": ["For each had praised one feature, one alone,", "Yet little of its beauty had they shown."]}, {"id": "D5.9.34", "lines": ["He wrote to them: “You elders have done well;", "You looked on paradise, as you now tell."]}, {"id": "D5.9.35", "lines": ["Return with all four wonders to my door;", "Beyond these four, demand from him no more."]}, {"id": "D5.9.36", "lines": ["Give Kayd my charter and my pledge, then load", "Your packs with Faghestan and take the road."]}, {"id": "D5.9.37", "lines": ["Let no man harm him after this decree;", "I found but justice in his acts toward me.”"]}, {"id": "D5.10.1", "lines": ["The envoy left the gathering to bring", "The Roman elders word from their own king."]}, {"id": "D5.10.2", "lines": ["Now when those sages heard their Shah’s reply,", "The travel-weary rider standing by,"]}, {"id": "D5.10.3", "lines": ["They left their lodging for the royal seat,", "And stood before King Kayd, the Shah to greet."]}, {"id": "D5.10.4", "lines": ["They read aloud the words that Caesar sent,", "And told King Kayd the sovereign’s full intent."]}, {"id": "D5.10.5", "lines": ["King Kayd rejoiced; his land was free from fear,", "No threat from Iskandar now hovered near."]}, {"id": "D5.10.6", "lines": ["He chose a hundred Indians, wise of mind,", "Whose eloquence with learning was combined."]}, {"id": "D5.10.7", "lines": ["He opened up the vaults that were his own,", "And chose an armlet, crown, and royal throne."]}, {"id": "D5.10.8", "lines": ["He chose fine gems and cloth not cut or sewn,", "The finest of the treasures he had known."]}, {"id": "D5.10.9", "lines": ["Three hundred camel-loads they took away,", "Of royal gems and cloth in rich array."]}, {"id": "D5.10.10", "lines": ["Ten camels carried coins of shining gold;", "Ten more bore silver from the royal hold."]}, {"id": "D5.10.11", "lines": ["A splendid litter made of aloeswood,", "Adorned with gold and gems, before them stood."]}, {"id": "D5.10.12", "lines": ["Ten elephants bore golden seats displayed;", "One finer beast was saddled and arrayed."]}, {"id": "D5.10.13", "lines": ["The bride wept tears of blood, and in her train", "The sage and healer rode across the plain."]}, {"id": "D5.10.14", "lines": ["A noble bore the cup; the chiefs were filled", "With wine from it, their sober senses stilled."]}, {"id": "D5.10.15", "lines": ["Faghestan came before the Shah; she bore", "A crown of black musk through his chamber door."]}, {"id": "D5.10.16", "lines": ["Her tresses over glowing cheeks were spread.", "They veiled, like jowshan, redbud blossoms red."]}, {"id": "D5.10.17", "lines": ["A cypress crowned with the round moon ablaze;", "On such a moon no eye could bear to gaze."]}, {"id": "D5.10.18", "lines": ["Her brows were bows above a somber glare;", "In twisted curls she wound her flowing hair."]}, {"id": "D5.10.19", "lines": ["Like Paradise’s two narcissi bright,", "Her eyes seemed formed of fire in all their light."]}, {"id": "D5.10.20", "lines": ["Iskandar gazed upon her stately grace,", "Her form from head to foot, her hair and face."]}, {"id": "D5.10.21", "lines": ["He said: “Behold the Lamp of all the earth!”", "And inwardly praised Him who gave her birth."]}, {"id": "D5.10.22", "lines": ["He praised the Just One, Maker of the skies,", "Who shaped such form and face before his eyes."]}, {"id": "D5.10.23", "lines": ["He called the learned Mobadan well known,", "From Rum’s great legions to attend the throne."]}, {"id": "D5.10.24", "lines": ["The Roman sages sat to see it done,", "And by their Christian rite the two were one."]}, {"id": "D5.10.25", "lines": ["He poured such gold upon her, rich and deep,", "The Moon could barely walk beneath the heap."]}, {"id": "D5.11.1", "lines": ["Now with the cypress-bride received in grace,", "Her dwelling set in its appointed place,"]}, {"id": "D5.11.2", "lines": ["He wished to test his wit in every way,", "And see what the philosopher would say."]}, {"id": "D5.11.3", "lines": ["He sent a brimming bowl of yellow ghee,", "To learn how keen the scholar’s mind might be."]}, {"id": "D5.11.4", "lines": ["And said: “Anoint your breast and back with oil,", "Your waist and limbs, still weary from their toil."]}, {"id": "D5.11.5", "lines": ["Rest now, until your weariness takes flight;", "Then fill my soul and brain with learning’s light.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.6", "lines": ["The sage, when he beheld the bowl of ghee,", "Said: “I can solve the riddle that I see.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.7", "lines": ["He placed a thousand needles in the bowl,", "Then sent it back to test the monarch’s soul."]}, {"id": "D5.11.8", "lines": ["The sovereign, when he saw the sharp reply,", "Called in a smith in secret, none else by."]}, {"id": "D5.11.9", "lines": ["He bade him melt the needles in the heat,", "And make one rounded iron piece complete."]}, {"id": "D5.11.10", "lines": ["He sent that iron to the learned man,", "Who took it in his hands, and work began."]}, {"id": "D5.11.11", "lines": ["From that dark iron, polished clean and bright,", "He quickly made a mirror full of light."]}, {"id": "D5.11.12", "lines": ["They took it to Iskandar when dark fell,", "And kept the secret close, and did not tell."]}, {"id": "D5.11.13", "lines": ["Without a word, he left it in the wet,", "Until a mask of heavy rust had set."]}, {"id": "D5.11.14", "lines": ["He sent it back to test the scholar’s mind,", "And thus prolonged the riddle he designed."]}, {"id": "D5.11.15", "lines": ["The sage restored its brilliance, clean and bright,", "And sent it back at once, all filled with light."]}, {"id": "D5.11.16", "lines": ["He treated it, so damp would not so fast", "Bring back the darkened tarnish of the past."]}, {"id": "D5.11.17", "lines": ["Iskandar summoned him; the sage was greeted,", "And just below the royal throne was seated."]}, {"id": "D5.11.18", "lines": ["He spoke about the bowl of yellow ghee,", "And asked: “What hidden meaning did you see?”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.19", "lines": ["“The oil passes over limbs,” he said,", "“And on the body’s members it is spread."]}, {"id": "D5.11.20", "lines": ["You said: ‘Among the sages of this town,", "My share of knowledge wins the greater crown.’"]}, {"id": "D5.11.21", "lines": ["I answered: ‘Shah, the heart both wise and pure", "Can pierce like needles, subtle, keen and sure."]}, {"id": "D5.11.22", "lines": ["Through sinew and through bone its point can go;", "It splits the stone that stands before it so.’"]}, {"id": "D5.11.23", "lines": ["You answered me: ‘A heart grown dark within,", "Through feasts and battles and their bloody din,"]}, {"id": "D5.11.24", "lines": ["Through spilling blood and fighting with its foes,", "Has blackened in the life of strife it knows."]}, {"id": "D5.11.25", "lines": ["How can the sage’s subtle words impart", "Their meaning, reaching such a darkened heart?’"]}, {"id": "D5.11.26", "lines": ["I said: ‘My speech is subtle, fine, and clear;", "My soul and mind are prudent and sincere."]}, {"id": "D5.11.27", "lines": ["My words are finer than a strand of hair;", "Your heart is not more dark than iron bare.’"]}, {"id": "D5.11.28", "lines": ["You said: ‘Through all the years of blood I shed,", "The rust within my heart has grown and spread."]}, {"id": "D5.11.29", "lines": ["How can this darkness vanish from my sight?", "Why twist my words, bewildered by this plight?’"]}, {"id": "D5.11.30", "lines": ["I said: ‘With knowledge of the heavens, I", "Shall cleanse your heart and make your doubting die."]}, {"id": "D5.11.31", "lines": ["And when it shines with wisdom’s brilliant grace,", "How can fresh rust again obscure its face?’”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.32", "lines": ["His honest words found favor in his eyes,", "The Shah esteemed him more for words so wise."]}, {"id": "D5.11.33", "lines": ["The treasurer, at his command, brought gold,", "Clothes, silver, and what gems a bowl could hold."]}, {"id": "D5.11.34", "lines": ["The gifts were laid before him, and he said:", "“I have a hidden jewel in their stead."]}, {"id": "D5.11.35", "lines": ["It brings me what I need, without a foe;", "Wealth walks with Ahriman wherever men go."]}, {"id": "D5.11.36", "lines": ["No watchman’s wages must I pay at night;", "No robber on the road can cause me fright."]}, {"id": "D5.11.37", "lines": ["For in the dark my knowledge keeps me whole,", "And wisdom crowns my waking, watchful soul."]}, {"id": "D5.11.38", "lines": ["By wisdom, knowledge, right, our souls succeed,", "While error opens doors where losses breed."]}, {"id": "D5.11.39", "lines": ["The Shah will see I have both clothes and food,", "Enough to keep my body strong, renewed."]}, {"id": "D5.11.40", "lines": ["Why should I take delight in heavy store,", "And spend my life protecting more and more?"]}, {"id": "D5.11.41", "lines": ["Command your men to take these gifts away,", "And let true wisdom guide your heart today.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.42", "lines": ["Iskandar stood amazed at what he heard,", "And pondered many things the sage had stirred."]}, {"id": "D5.11.43", "lines": ["He said: “Yazdan of sun and moon shall lay", "No further sin upon me from this day."]}, {"id": "D5.11.44", "lines": ["I value all your counsel and your thought,", "The useful words that you to me have brought.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.45", "lines": ["Iskandar called the healer to his side,", "Who read the water, saw what it implied."]}, {"id": "D5.11.46", "lines": ["He asked: “What is the greatest cause of pain,", "The source of illness that makes men complain?”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.47", "lines": ["The healer said: “The glutton at the feast,", "Who gives no thought to how his stores increased."]}, {"id": "D5.11.48", "lines": ["The man who eats too much cannot be sound;", "The great man seeks that health in him be found."]}, {"id": "D5.11.49", "lines": ["I shall gather herbs from all sides and make", "A medicine for you alone to take."]}, {"id": "D5.11.50", "lines": ["A medicine I shall make to keep you whole,", "Without a purge to trouble flesh or soul."]}, {"id": "D5.11.51", "lines": ["It shall increase your appetite and will;", "Though you eat more, it shall not make you ill."]}, {"id": "D5.11.52", "lines": ["It shall restore the color of your face,", "And give your judgment clarity and grace."]}, {"id": "D5.11.53", "lines": ["Remember these fine words, for you shall gain", "More blood within your body, strength of brain."]}, {"id": "D5.11.54", "lines": ["Your heart will bloom as brightly as the spring,", "And mastery of your body this shall bring."]}, {"id": "D5.11.55", "lines": ["Your flowing locks shall never turn to gray,", "Which takes a man’s hope in the world away.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.56", "lines": ["Iskandar said: “Such things I have not heard,", "Nor seen among the kings, as in your word."]}, {"id": "D5.11.57", "lines": ["If you can make this medicine for me,", "My guide throughout the world you then shall be."]}, {"id": "D5.11.58", "lines": ["With all my soul I value what you do;", "No ill-intentioned man shall injure you.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.59", "lines": ["He gave him robes and favors, and he raised", "His rank above the other healers praised."]}, {"id": "D5.11.60", "lines": ["The learned doctor journeyed to the hills,", "With men beside him, seeking cures for ills."]}, {"id": "D5.11.61", "lines": ["He knew each nush-daru and deadly bane,", "His knowledge marked the difference clear and plain."]}, {"id": "D5.11.62", "lines": ["He gathered mountain herbs to swell his store,", "Discarding useless plants the mountains bore."]}, {"id": "D5.11.63", "lines": ["He chose pure nush-daru, and with his art", "Mixed medicine to play its proper part."]}, {"id": "D5.11.64", "lines": ["He cleansed the Shah with herbs from mountain ground,", "And kept him through the months and years thus sound."]}, {"id": "D5.11.65", "lines": ["He slept but little, eager for the charms", "Of women, seeking softness in their arms."]}, {"id": "D5.11.66", "lines": ["Because he failed to keep desire restrained,", "His vigor ebbed and left his body drained."]}, {"id": "D5.11.67", "lines": ["The healer came to read the water’s sign,", "And saw his vital powers in decline."]}, {"id": "D5.11.68", "lines": ["He said: “In women’s beds, through love’s delight,", "The young grow old, their bodies lose their might."]}, {"id": "D5.11.69", "lines": ["I think for three nights sleep you have disdained;", "Speak now the truth and let it be explained.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.70", "lines": ["Iskandar said: “My health is sound and hale;", "No illness saps my strength or makes me frail.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.71", "lines": ["Yet Hind’s wise healer would not share his view,", "Nor take the Shah’s account as wholly true."]}, {"id": "D5.11.72", "lines": ["That night he sought the writing, and prepared", "A cure for strength diminished and impaired."]}, {"id": "D5.11.73", "lines": ["That night Iskandar kept no lady near,", "No moon-faced partner shared his slumber here."]}, {"id": "D5.11.74", "lines": ["At dawn the healer read the water’s sign,", "And saw no trace of weakness or decline."]}, {"id": "D5.11.75", "lines": ["He cast the waiting potion to the ground,", "And sat, cup in his hand, with joy unbound."]}, {"id": "D5.11.76", "lines": ["He bade them spread the table, bring the wine;", "With music of the strings, they were to dine."]}, {"id": "D5.11.77", "lines": ["The Shah inquired, “Why did you pour away", "The medicine you toiled to mix that day?”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.78", "lines": ["He said, “Last night no woman shared your bed,", "You slept alone throughout the night instead."]}, {"id": "D5.11.79", "lines": ["When you lie down alone throughout the night,", "You need no potion to restore your might.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.80", "lines": ["Iskandar laughed, and joy within him stirred:", "“May earth not lack for Hind!” was then his word."]}, {"id": "D5.11.81", "lines": ["“The healers and the readers of the skies", "Seem gathered all in Hind before our eyes.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.82", "lines": ["He called for gold in purse, and one black steed,", "With golden trappings worthy of the deed."]}, {"id": "D5.11.83", "lines": ["He gave these gifts and blessed his judgment clear:", "“May wisdom ever be your partner here.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.84", "lines": ["At his command they brought the cup of gold,", "Filled with cold water, splendid to behold."]}, {"id": "D5.11.85", "lines": ["All drank from dawn until the close of day,", "Yet still the water had not ebbed away."]}, {"id": "D5.11.86", "lines": ["He turned and asked the learned sage to tell:", "“Explain this art to me; you know it well."]}, {"id": "D5.11.87", "lines": ["What fills this cup? Is it the stars’ device,", "Or Indian craft that makes its stores suffice?”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.88", "lines": ["The sage replied: “Despise it not, O king;", "Long years of labor shaped this wondrous thing."]}, {"id": "D5.11.89", "lines": ["Wise astrologers came from every land,", "The foremost masters, skilled to understand."]}, {"id": "D5.11.90", "lines": ["They gathered round King Kayd to make it right,", "Through daylight and the lapis-colored night."]}, {"id": "D5.11.91", "lines": ["They watched the workings of the stars on high,", "And spent long days in study of the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.11.92", "lines": ["Observe how loadstone draws the iron near;", "So take that force as your example here."]}, {"id": "D5.11.93", "lines": ["By nature, this draws water in its turn,", "Sweet water from the heavens, as we learn."]}, {"id": "D5.11.94", "lines": ["It gathers water when its stores grow slight,", "Its filling hidden from all human sight.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.95", "lines": ["The Shah approved the counsel he had heard,", "And found true profit in the wise man’s word."]}, {"id": "D5.11.96", "lines": ["The Shah then spoke to Milad’s elders, grave:", "“In justice, I shall keep the oath I gave."]}, {"id": "D5.11.97", "lines": ["I shall not break it while it holds its place;", "One ought to stand before him, face to face."]}, {"id": "D5.11.98", "lines": ["Four wonders I received from Kayd’s own hand;", "No further gain from him shall I demand.”"]}, {"id": "D5.11.99", "lines": ["Two hundred beasts bore wealth, all they could hold,", "A hundred jeweled crowns atop the gold."]}, {"id": "D5.11.100", "lines": ["With dinars and with jewels still uncut,", "The hoard within the mountain’s depths was shut."]}, {"id": "D5.11.101", "lines": ["That hoard and those who hid it from men’s sight", "Were never seen again in open light."]}, {"id": "D5.11.102", "lines": ["Of wealth he hid within the mountain’s hold,", "He bore a keepsake of that treasured gold."]}, {"id": "D5.11.103", "lines": ["From Milad toward Ghanooj he led his train;", "The treasure in its hiding would remain."]}, {"id": "D5.12.1", "lines": ["He brought his army near to Foor, then bade", "A letter full of war and strife be made."]}, {"id": "D5.12.2", "lines": ["“From Iskandar Faylaqus, king of kings,", "Who kindles fire, and joy and sorrow brings."]}, {"id": "D5.12.3", "lines": ["To Foor, the mighty chieftain ruling Hind,", "The high-starred leader of the troops of Sind."]}, {"id": "D5.12.4", "lines": ["He first gave praise to God, whom all obey,", "Who ever was, and shall not pass away.”"]}, {"id": "D5.12.5", "lines": ["Then he wrote: “With the prince whom God has blessed,", "The realm, the crown and throne shall safely rest."]}, {"id": "D5.12.6", "lines": ["But whom Yazdan brings low shall suffer woe,", "And on his head the sun no light shall throw."]}, {"id": "D5.12.7", "lines": ["You surely know what God has granted now:", "On this dark earth, the glory on my brow,"]}, {"id": "D5.12.8", "lines": ["With victory, good fortune, and command,", "The diadem and throne to rule the land."]}, {"id": "D5.12.9", "lines": ["But earthly days cannot for long endure;", "Our time will pass; of that we may be sure."]}, {"id": "D5.12.10", "lines": ["Another king will come to claim the prize,", "And reap these fruits beneath the shifting skies."]}, {"id": "D5.12.11", "lines": ["An honored name must last, kept clear of shame,", "Beneath the moon, within this narrow frame."]}, {"id": "D5.12.12", "lines": ["When this is laid before your royal eyes,", "Fill your dark thoughts with justice, and be wise."]}, {"id": "D5.12.13", "lines": ["Exchange your throne of greatness for your steed;", "Consult no Mobad, nor a guide you heed."]}, {"id": "D5.12.14", "lines": ["Seek safety from me; set your schemes aside,", "For schemers find their troubles long abide."]}, {"id": "D5.12.15", "lines": ["If for one moment you defy my will,", "And choose proud valor, bent on battle still,"]}, {"id": "D5.12.16", "lines": ["I shall bring legions fierce as spreading fire,", "Picked warriors, brave in battle, grim in ire."]}, {"id": "D5.12.17", "lines": ["When I arrive with horsemen for the fray,", "You shall repent your lingering delay.”"]}, {"id": "D5.13.1", "lines": ["When all the letter’s measured words were done,", "The scribe had finished what he had begun."]}, {"id": "D5.13.2", "lines": ["They stamped Iskandar’s seal upon the sheet,", "And chose a guide, the journey to complete."]}, {"id": "D5.13.3", "lines": ["The envoy spoke to Foor of war, and then", "Of feasts and joy, then war and strife again."]}, {"id": "D5.13.4", "lines": ["They called the seasoned envoy to draw near,", "And seated him beside the king to hear."]}, {"id": "D5.13.5", "lines": ["Foor burned with anger when the words were read;", "Against the mighty Shah his anger spread."]}, {"id": "D5.13.6", "lines": ["He wrote a fierce reply, and planted so", "A tree in hatred’s garden, there to grow."]}, {"id": "D5.13.7", "lines": ["He first began: “Before the Holy One,", "We must fear Him in all things said and done."]}, {"id": "D5.13.8", "lines": ["We shall not squander words, but make it plain:", "The braggart’s helplessness, his boasting vain."]}, {"id": "D5.13.9", "lines": ["You summon me! Have you no sense of shame?", "Does wisdom in your mind possess no claim?"]}, {"id": "D5.13.10", "lines": ["If Faylaqus once wrote to Foor this way,", "Then you may raise such tumult for the fray."]}, {"id": "D5.13.11", "lines": ["Dead Dara’s fall has made you overbold,", "For fortune left him and his star grew cold."]}, {"id": "D5.13.12", "lines": ["When fortune leaves a great and ancient race,", "They give their teacher’s counsel little place."]}, {"id": "D5.13.13", "lines": ["The war with Kayd became a feast that day;", "You think that kings have all become your prey."]}, {"id": "D5.13.14", "lines": ["No Kayanian king in days gone by", "Addressed us thus, with words that rose so high."]}, {"id": "D5.13.15", "lines": ["I am King Foor, born from King Foor’s own line;", "No Caesar counts for much with me or mine."]}, {"id": "D5.13.16", "lines": ["When Dara sought my aid to save his reign,", "His heart and fortune faltered, all too plain."]}, {"id": "D5.13.17", "lines": ["I sent him elephants to lend their might,", "And words of courage to maintain the fight."]}, {"id": "D5.13.18", "lines": ["When by that servant’s hand his life was lost,", "Iran’s good fortune turned, at bitter cost."]}, {"id": "D5.13.19", "lines": ["When earth was cleared of Dara and his reign,", "A nush-daru replaced your deadly bane."]}, {"id": "D5.13.20", "lines": ["If his bad minister had laid him low,", "Why let your wisdom fail and folly grow?"]}, {"id": "D5.13.21", "lines": ["Do not parade your daring in the fight;", "With me, your dealings will not prove so light."]}, {"id": "D5.13.22", "lines": ["Behold my elephants and troops arrayed,", "Their ranks so thick, the very wind is stayed."]}, {"id": "D5.13.23", "lines": ["The highest rank is all you seek to win;", "Your nature mirrors Ahriman within."]}, {"id": "D5.13.24", "lines": ["Sow no more seeds of greed throughout the land;", "Fear harm and evil fortune’s heavy hand."]}, {"id": "D5.13.25", "lines": ["We sought your good in writing this reply,", "And graced your heart with good intent thereby.”"]}, {"id": "D5.14.1", "lines": ["When Foor’s defiant message was received,", "He chose brave men whose worth he had perceived."]}, {"id": "D5.14.2", "lines": ["His youthful chiefs were seasoned, shrewd, and wise,", "And led the columns under foreign skies."]}, {"id": "D5.14.3", "lines": ["He marched against King Foor through India’s land,", "The earth seemed sea beneath his vast command."]}, {"id": "D5.14.4", "lines": ["The troops filled every road in their array;", "It seemed the earth possessed no other way."]}, {"id": "D5.14.5", "lines": ["Rough roads and seas and mountains barred their course,", "And daily drained the soldiers of their force."]}, {"id": "D5.14.6", "lines": ["The troops grew slow and weary, sorely tried,", "On grievous roads through country rough and wide."]}, {"id": "D5.14.7", "lines": ["When all the army halted on the way,", "Some men approached to speak of their dismay."]}, {"id": "D5.14.8", "lines": ["“Rum’s Caesar, lord of Chin, of high renown,", "Your marching legions weigh the whole earth down."]}, {"id": "D5.14.9", "lines": ["Neither the Faghfoor, Foor, nor Sind’s great king", "Seeks war with you or strife that war would bring."]}, {"id": "D5.14.10", "lines": ["Why lead your forces over ruined soil,", "And waste your faithful soldiers’ lives in toil?"]}, {"id": "D5.14.11", "lines": ["We see no sound horse left for us to ride,", "To face the foe upon the farther side."]}, {"id": "D5.14.12", "lines": ["If now the troops should turn from this attack,", "No horse or foot could ever travel back."]}, {"id": "D5.14.13", "lines": ["When we prevailed in all the wars of old,", "We faced armed men whose hearts were fierce and bold."]}, {"id": "D5.14.14", "lines": ["Now seas and mountains bar the path ahead;", "Not one of us desires to join the dead."]}, {"id": "D5.14.15", "lines": ["Do not turn ancient glory into shame;", "Who wars with waves and stone to win a name?”"]}, {"id": "D5.14.16", "lines": ["Their words displeased Iskandar; in his wrath,", "He scorned the counsel offered on the path."]}, {"id": "D5.14.17", "lines": ["He said: “In all the war on Iran’s plain,", "No Roman suffered injury or pain."]}, {"id": "D5.14.18", "lines": ["Dara was ruined by his servants’ hands;", "Yet none of you was hurt in those same lands."]}, {"id": "D5.14.19", "lines": ["Without your aid I tread this fearsome trail,", "And set my foot upon the dragon’s tail."]}, {"id": "D5.14.20", "lines": ["You shall see Foor harried, with no release", "From me in war or feast, nor any peace."]}, {"id": "D5.14.21", "lines": ["When I return to Rum from this campaign,", "My valor shall exalt the world’s domain."]}, {"id": "D5.14.22", "lines": ["With God to aid and Iran’s troops behind,", "No Roman goodwill need I seek or find.”"]}, {"id": "D5.14.23", "lines": ["When they beheld the anger in his eyes,", "The troops began at once to apologize."]}, {"id": "D5.14.24", "lines": ["They said: “We are your slaves and heed command;", "We only march where you direct our band."]}, {"id": "D5.14.25", "lines": ["If horses fail, we march on foot afield,", "To face the foe and never bow or yield."]}, {"id": "D5.14.26", "lines": ["Though with our blood they flood the low terrain,", "And heap the hollows high with bodies slain,"]}, {"id": "D5.14.27", "lines": ["No foe in battle shall behold our back,", "Though heaven rain down mountains on our track;"]}, {"id": "D5.14.28", "lines": ["We are your slaves, to follow your command;", "Our lives, if we offend, are in your hand.”"]}, {"id": "D5.14.29", "lines": ["Iskandar heard their words and soon arrayed", "His troops for war; his battle plans were laid."]}, {"id": "D5.14.30", "lines": ["He chose from Iran thirty thousand strong,", "Equipped for battle, marching in a throng."]}, {"id": "D5.14.31", "lines": ["Dara’s bold kin, of Kayanian descent,", "Among the chosen troops to battle went."]}, {"id": "D5.14.32", "lines": ["Then Roman captains crowned by martial fame", "In armor, fit for battle, onward came."]}, {"id": "D5.14.33", "lines": ["Then forty thousand horsemen would appear,", "All seasoned men, who rode in Iran’s rear."]}, {"id": "D5.14.34", "lines": ["Behind them rode the horsemen, fierce and light,", "From Khazar, famed for strength in every fight."]}, {"id": "D5.14.35", "lines": ["From Shalam and Hijaz, from Yemen’s land,", "Came Arab warriors in a countless band."]}, {"id": "D5.14.36", "lines": ["From these the mighty Caesar chose the best,", "Twelve thousand warriors hardened by each test."]}, {"id": "D5.14.37", "lines": ["The ordered columns rose before their eyes,", "Till plain and valley seemed like peaks in size."]}, {"id": "D5.14.38", "lines": ["Skilled Mobadan and astrologers of state,", "Full sixty, read the stars for battle’s date."]}, {"id": "D5.14.39", "lines": ["When Foor received the news, “The foe draws near,”", "He chose the ground and mustered without fear."]}, {"id": "D5.14.40", "lines": ["His troops amassed upon the spreading plain;", "The elephants seemed like a mountain chain."]}, {"id": "D5.14.41", "lines": ["For four full farsangs battle ranks were spread,", "With warriors behind and beasts ahead."]}, {"id": "D5.14.42", "lines": ["From Hind came men who knew the land to say", "How those huge beasts destroyed men in the fray:"]}, {"id": "D5.14.43", "lines": ["“It casts a horse two farsangs on the plain;", "Such is its power amid the battle’s strain."]}, {"id": "D5.14.44", "lines": ["No horseman dares approach that fearsome might;", "Who does will find no path for backward flight."]}, {"id": "D5.14.45", "lines": ["Their giant trunks rise towering through the air,", "As though great Saturn made their fortune fair.”"]}, {"id": "D5.14.46", "lines": ["They drew the beast in all its fearsome strength;", "Iskandar studied every line at length."]}, {"id": "D5.14.47", "lines": ["He bade the Roman sages bring to view", "An elephant in wax, its likeness true."]}, {"id": "D5.14.48", "lines": ["He asked: “Who can devise a subtle scheme", "To save our troops from danger so extreme?”"]}, {"id": "D5.14.49", "lines": ["The sages met in council to advise,", "And sought a plan to meet the beasts’ great size."]}, {"id": "D5.14.50", "lines": ["The Shah assembled smiths of highest fame;", "From Rum and Pars and distant Mesr they came."]}, {"id": "D5.14.51", "lines": ["More than three thousand craftsmen heard the call,", "The foremost in their craft among them all."]}, {"id": "D5.14.52", "lines": ["They forged both horse and rider, iron-bright;", "An iron saddle bore the man upright."]}, {"id": "D5.14.53", "lines": ["With nails and copper binding every seam,", "They made both horse and rider shine and gleam."]}, {"id": "D5.14.54", "lines": ["They wheeled it to the king upon a cart,", "Black naphtha filling all its hollow heart."]}, {"id": "D5.14.55", "lines": ["The king beheld the work with great delight;", "He judged the craft would serve him in the fight."]}, {"id": "D5.14.56", "lines": ["He ordered more than one full thousand made,", "Both horse and rider, all in iron arrayed."]}, {"id": "D5.14.57", "lines": ["Dappled and dun, gray, black, the ranks appeared;", "Who ever saw an iron army reared?"]}, {"id": "D5.14.58", "lines": ["For one full month the smithies rang with blows,", "Till all the finished figures stood in rows."]}, {"id": "D5.14.59", "lines": ["He sent the iron force on wheels to ride,", "Like fighting horsemen marching side by side."]}, {"id": "D5.15.1", "lines": ["Now as Iskandar drew toward the fight,", "He saw Foor’s horse and army come in sight."]}, {"id": "D5.15.2", "lines": ["On both sides rose the thunder of the cry,", "And dust rose as the warriors hurried by."]}, {"id": "D5.15.3", "lines": ["They lit the horses’ naphtha, blazing red;", "Each Indian in anguish struck his head."]}, {"id": "D5.15.4", "lines": ["The black naphtha flared up in sheets of light;", "The iron army moved into the fight."]}, {"id": "D5.15.5", "lines": ["The troops cried out; the elephants were stirred", "To rage by blows as battle-shouts were heard."]}, {"id": "D5.15.6", "lines": ["Fire caught their trunks; the drivers at the sight", "Stood wondering at that strange and dreadful plight."]}, {"id": "D5.15.7", "lines": ["Thus all Foor’s troops and elephants gave way,", "And fled the burning engines in dismay."]}, {"id": "D5.15.8", "lines": ["Their foes, who saw the Indians turn in flight,", "Swept on with all their army’s gathered might."]}, {"id": "D5.15.9", "lines": ["Iskandar like a raging tempest sped,", "In hot pursuit of those who turned and fled."]}, {"id": "D5.15.10", "lines": ["He followed till the air grew deep and dark,", "And night put out the battle’s final spark."]}, {"id": "D5.15.11", "lines": ["The monarch with his legions took his stand,", "Between two mountains sheltering his band."]}, {"id": "D5.15.12", "lines": ["He sent out scouts to keep the roads in sight,", "To guard the camp throughout the depth of night."]}, {"id": "D5.15.13", "lines": ["Now when the golden crown of morning showed,", "And all the world like whitest crystal glowed,"]}, {"id": "D5.15.14", "lines": ["There rose a blare of karnays through the air,", "With fifes, tabiras sounding everywhere."]}, {"id": "D5.15.15", "lines": ["Both armies armed for war, their spearheads high,", "Upraised toward clouds that spread across the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.15.16", "lines": ["Iskandar rode between the lines alone,", "A Roman sword in hand, his purpose known."]}, {"id": "D5.15.17", "lines": ["A rider went to Foor and cried aloud,", "His summons sounding far across the crowd:"]}, {"id": "D5.15.18", "lines": ["“Iskandar stands before the ranks today;", "He seeks to meet and hear what you would say."]}, {"id": "D5.15.19", "lines": ["He will speak and hear you; if just and true,", "He will agree with what he hears from you.”"]}, {"id": "D5.15.20", "lines": ["Foor heard, and from his center rode ahead,", "To stand before the troops that he had led."]}, {"id": "D5.15.21", "lines": ["Iskandar spoke: “O warrior, look around;", "Both armies’ shattered men lie on the ground."]}, {"id": "D5.15.22", "lines": ["Wild beasts now feast on brains of warriors dead,", "While hooves crush bones where streams of blood are shed."]}, {"id": "D5.15.23", "lines": ["Why should our soldiers perish in the press,", "While shattered remnants flee in their distress?"]}, {"id": "D5.15.24", "lines": ["We both are heroes, resolute and young,", "With wisdom in each mind and on each tongue."]}, {"id": "D5.15.25", "lines": ["Let us take arms and end this war in fight;", "We both would seize the country by our might."]}, {"id": "D5.15.26", "lines": ["Whoever wins this combat, hand to hand,", "Shall take the throne, the troops, the crown, the land.”"]}, {"id": "D5.15.27", "lines": ["Foor heard, and joyfully the challenge met,", "As though a feast before him had been set."]}, {"id": "D5.15.28", "lines": ["Foor said: “This is the proper course, well known;", "Without our armies, let us fight alone.”"]}, {"id": "D5.15.29", "lines": ["He trusted in his lion’s strength to fight,", "And rode a dragon-steed of proven might."]}, {"id": "D5.15.30", "lines": ["Iskandar, slim as any writing reed,", "With light arms, rode a fierce and speedy steed."]}, {"id": "D5.15.31", "lines": ["They took their blades and wheeled across the space,", "To meet each other in that deadly place."]}, {"id": "D5.15.32", "lines": ["Foor, elephantine, rode a mountain grand,", "And bore a mighty dragon in his hand."]}, {"id": "D5.15.33", "lines": ["Iskandar marveled, troubled by the strife,", "And in his heart despaired of his own life."]}, {"id": "D5.15.34", "lines": ["They circled still; behind the troops a sound", "Of shouting rose across the battleground."]}, {"id": "D5.15.35", "lines": ["Foor’s heart grew troubled at the sudden shout;", "His head and eyes and ears all turned about."]}, {"id": "D5.15.36", "lines": ["Through dust, like wind, Iskandar charged ahead,", "And struck the lion, whose red blood he shed."]}, {"id": "D5.15.37", "lines": ["His sword struck head and neck beneath the crown,", "And brought the giant crashing lifeless down."]}, {"id": "D5.15.38", "lines": ["His army raised a shout that reached the sky;", "Iran’s bold warriors charged, their spirits high."]}, {"id": "D5.15.39", "lines": ["A lion-hide tabira raised its roar;", "Beyond the clouds its voice was heard to soar."]}, {"id": "D5.15.40", "lines": ["Karnay and tabira renewed their sound;", "The sky turned ebony, iron the ground."]}, {"id": "D5.15.41", "lines": ["The men of Hind pressed forward, face to face;", "In straits, they met the foe in narrow space."]}, {"id": "D5.15.42", "lines": ["A proclamation echoed through the plain:", "“O righteous chiefs of Hind’s renowned domain,"]}, {"id": "D5.15.43", "lines": ["Foor’s head lies in the dust, his body torn;", "His elephantine frame is split and shorn."]}, {"id": "D5.15.44", "lines": ["For whom do you still fight and strike this way?", "Why bear such sword-blows? Why this long delay?"]}, {"id": "D5.15.45", "lines": ["What Foor was to your land in days before,", "Iskandar is; your war and feasts restore.”"]}, {"id": "D5.15.46", "lines": ["The men of Hind approached, and all replied,", "Their voices joined together, side by side."]}, {"id": "D5.15.47", "lines": ["They saw Foor’s head in blood and dust that day,", "His breast and body cleft where now he lay."]}, {"id": "D5.15.48", "lines": ["A mighty shriek rang out from all around;", "They wailed and flung their swords upon the ground."]}, {"id": "D5.15.49", "lines": ["With dust upon their heads, to Caesar’s side", "They came in grief, and mourned their king who died."]}, {"id": "D5.15.50", "lines": ["Iskandar gave them back the swords they flung,", "And soothed the grief with which their hearts were wrung."]}, {"id": "D5.15.51", "lines": ["He said, “Though Foor is dead, cast off your care;", "Your hearts must not surrender to despair."]}, {"id": "D5.15.52", "lines": ["My favor shall increase; I bring relief,", "And drive away your fear and bitter grief.”"]}, {"id": "D5.15.53", "lines": ["He sat upon Foor’s throne; a feast was spread,", "While others mourned the king who now lay dead."]}, {"id": "D5.15.54", "lines": ["Such is this fleeting lodging we must know:", "One finds his joy within another’s woe."]}, {"id": "D5.15.55", "lines": ["Enjoy your wealth; leave nothing stored away:", "Why toil for what another takes one day?"]}, {"id": "D5.15.56", "lines": ["Two months he sat upon the royal throne,", "And gave the troops Foor’s treasure, once his own."]}, {"id": "D5.15.57", "lines": ["Soorag, a noble chief of proven might,", "Was Hind’s great champion, famed for strength in fight."]}, {"id": "D5.15.58", "lines": ["He gave Soorag the throne and spoke aloud:", "“Do not hoard gold; a king must not be proud."]}, {"id": "D5.15.59", "lines": ["Give and enjoy whatever wealth you gain;", "This fleeting crown and throne will not remain."]}, {"id": "D5.15.60", "lines": ["Now Iskandar, now Foor, the crown may bear;", "Now wrath and pain, now war and feasts they share.”"]}, {"id": "D5.15.61", "lines": ["He gave the army silver coins and gold,", "And decked the realm’s brave warriors, strong and bold."]}, {"id": "D5.16.1", "lines": ["Soon all his troops were sated with the store", "Of Hind and longed for wealth and spoils no more."]}, {"id": "D5.16.2", "lines": ["At dawn tabiras sounded through the air,", "And ranks of spears arose with martial flare."]}, {"id": "D5.16.3", "lines": ["The heavens glowed like a bright rooster’s eye,", "Gold, crimson, violet banners roofed the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.16.4", "lines": ["Toward Haram Iskandar took his way;", "Some hearts were glad, while others felt dismay."]}, {"id": "D5.16.5", "lines": ["With blaring horns and elephants he came", "To see the place that bore Ismail’s name."]}, {"id": "D5.16.6", "lines": ["That prophet bore great toil to raise the shrine,", "And labored long to build that House divine."]}, {"id": "D5.16.7", "lines": ["God named it Baitul Haram, holy seat;", "Through it the path of faith is made complete."]}, {"id": "D5.16.8", "lines": ["For purity He called that House His own;", "He summoned you to worship Him alone."]}, {"id": "D5.16.9", "lines": ["He needs no place, no food, no ease or rest,", "Nor pleasure such as mortal hearts love best."]}, {"id": "D5.16.10", "lines": ["Since place itself arose beneath the skies,", "That House became where God’s remembrance lies."]}, {"id": "D5.16.11", "lines": ["To Kadisiya went the Shah’s array;", "To Jahram, Pars, the conqueror made his way."]}, {"id": "D5.16.12", "lines": ["The news reached Nasr-e Qatib of renown,", "The pride of Mecca, honored in the town."]}, {"id": "D5.16.13", "lines": ["He rode to meet the Shah, a stately force,", "With spear-armed riders brightening the course."]}, {"id": "D5.16.14", "lines": ["A horseman sped from Mecca with this word,", "And told Iskandar what he knew and heard:"]}, {"id": "D5.16.15", "lines": ["“He seeks no crown or treasure from your hand,", "Nor comes to claim the troops at your command."]}, {"id": "D5.16.16", "lines": ["He springs from Ismail’s fortunate line,", "Whose father, Ibrahim, bore the word divine.”"]}, {"id": "D5.16.17", "lines": ["The Shah received him with a gracious face,", "And granted him a high and honored place."]}, {"id": "D5.16.18", "lines": ["Then Nasr rejoiced and spoke with open heart,", "Revealing birth and secrets, part by part."]}, {"id": "D5.16.19", "lines": ["Iskandar answered, “Chief of noble mind,", "In you a pure and truthful heart I find.”"]}, {"id": "D5.16.20", "lines": ["The Shah then asked, “Among your noble race,", "Who else among you holds the foremost place?”"]}, {"id": "D5.16.21", "lines": ["Nasr replied, “O sovereign of the land,", "Khuza is chief; this place is in his hand."]}, {"id": "D5.16.22", "lines": ["When Ismail passed beyond all mortal sight,", "Qahtan came from the plains in royal might."]}, {"id": "D5.16.23", "lines": ["With many swordsmen came his mighty train;", "He seized Yemen by force and caused it pain."]}, {"id": "D5.16.24", "lines": ["He slew the guiltless members of our line;", "Our house fell low, our fortunes in decline."]}, {"id": "D5.16.25", "lines": ["The Maker of the world condemned his reign;", "The heavens darkened on his proud domain."]}, {"id": "D5.16.26", "lines": ["When Qahtan fell and mingled with the dust,", "Khuza arose, audacious and unjust."]}, {"id": "D5.16.27", "lines": ["From Haram to Yemen he held command;", "The sea of Mesr lay beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "D5.16.28", "lines": ["He turned from justice and the righteous way,", "No thought of God or goodness in him lay."]}, {"id": "D5.16.29", "lines": ["The world lay in his clutch beneath his reign,", "And Ismail’s descendants lived in pain.”"]}, {"id": "D5.16.30", "lines": ["Iskandar heard, and all the kin he spied", "Of Khuza fell before his sword and died."]}, {"id": "D5.16.31", "lines": ["By policy and by his warriors’ might,", "He freed Hijaz and Yemen from their plight."]}, {"id": "D5.16.32", "lines": ["He raised the worthy sons of Ismail’s race,", "To rule with justice each appointed place."]}, {"id": "D5.16.33", "lines": ["On foot he came before that sacred shrine,", "And joy arose through all of Ismail’s line."]}, {"id": "D5.16.34", "lines": ["His keeper of the treasure scattered gold,", "At every step, as ancient tales have told."]}, {"id": "D5.16.35", "lines": ["Then, coming back, before the palace door", "He gave Nasr golden dinars from his store."]}, {"id": "D5.16.36", "lines": ["The poor and all who earned their bread by toil", "Were freed from want upon the Meccan soil."]}, {"id": "D5.17.1", "lines": ["The Shah then came to Judda with his train,", "And did not choose for long there to remain."]}, {"id": "D5.17.2", "lines": ["He bade the troops build ships at his command,", "And many boats, and had them fully manned."]}, {"id": "D5.17.3", "lines": ["From Judda toward Mesr he took his way,", "And led his marching army in array."]}, {"id": "D5.17.4", "lines": ["Qaytun was king of Mesr; his troops were vast;", "All reckoning of numbers they surpassed."]}, {"id": "D5.17.5", "lines": ["When word arrived that from Haram he came,", "The conquering Shah in all his pride and fame,"]}, {"id": "D5.17.6", "lines": ["With troops and slaves and gold he came to bring", "His crown and throne before the conquering king."]}, {"id": "D5.17.7", "lines": ["Iskandar welcomed him with joy that day,", "And said, “May all your foes be swept away!”"]}, {"id": "D5.17.8", "lines": ["The Shah remained in Mesr a year of peace,", "And let his weary army’s labors cease."]}, {"id": "D5.17.9", "lines": ["In Andalus a queen held royal sway,", "Both wise and mistress of a vast array."]}, {"id": "D5.17.10", "lines": ["World-seeking, generous, famed throughout the land,", "Kaydafa held the scepter of command."]}, {"id": "D5.17.11", "lines": ["She chose a warrior skilled in line and shade,", "A clever draftsman, master of his trade."]}, {"id": "D5.17.12", "lines": ["She said: “Go secretly to Caesar’s hall,", "But name neither our land nor me at all."]}, {"id": "D5.17.13", "lines": ["Mark everything about him with your eyes:", "His seat, his bearing, and his form and size."]}, {"id": "D5.17.14", "lines": ["Draw him from head to foot and show his face;", "His coloring and stature clearly trace.”"]}, {"id": "D5.17.15", "lines": ["He readied all and mounted to obey,", "Then like a courier went on his way."]}, {"id": "D5.17.16", "lines": ["He rode from Andalus to Mesr’s land,", "Where Caesar ruled his armies in command."]}, {"id": "D5.17.17", "lines": ["He watched the king enthroned and on his steed,", "And brought out fine silk, ready for the deed."]}, {"id": "D5.17.18", "lines": ["He drew the king’s true likeness with his pen,", "Then swiftly took the homeward road again."]}, {"id": "D5.17.19", "lines": ["Kaydafa saw his likeness with a sigh,", "And hid it, troubled by what met her eye."]}, {"id": "D5.17.20", "lines": ["She said: “Through counsel and his warlike might,", "This man will trample kingdoms left and right."]}, {"id": "D5.17.21", "lines": ["Whoever comes against him as a foe", "Will find his life beset by grief and woe.”"]}, {"id": "D5.17.22", "lines": ["Iskandar questioned Qaytun, “Tell me true:", "Who rivals Queen Kaydafa, in your view?”"]}, {"id": "D5.17.23", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah, no equal can be found;", "Her name and greatness fill the world around."]}, {"id": "D5.17.24", "lines": ["No man can number all her vast array,", "Unless the muster rolls should show the way."]}, {"id": "D5.17.25", "lines": ["In wealth and greatness, worth and steady heart,", "In calm composure, she is set apart."]}, {"id": "D5.17.26", "lines": ["In counsel and kind speech none stands so high;", "No equal walks beneath the living sky;"]}, {"id": "D5.17.27", "lines": ["Her city, built of stone, stands strong and tall;", "No leopard’s claw could scratch its mighty wall."]}, {"id": "D5.17.28", "lines": ["Four farsangs long, four farsangs wide its frame;", "Its breadth and length are measured both the same."]}, {"id": "D5.17.29", "lines": ["Her treasure has no bound that men can name;", "The world has long been filled with her great fame.”"]}, {"id": "D5.18.1", "lines": ["Iskandar, hearing all that Qaytun knew,", "Called for a scribe and told him what to do."]}, {"id": "D5.18.2", "lines": ["On silk they wrote: “From him whom cities fear,", "Iskandar, king of kings, these words appear."]}, {"id": "D5.18.3", "lines": ["To wise Kaydafa, eminent of name,", "Whose majesty has won a world-wide fame."]}, {"id": "D5.18.4", "lines": ["First, praise be to the Master of the sun,", "Who lit the moon when heaven’s course was spun."]}, {"id": "D5.18.5", "lines": ["The generous Lord, whose justice governs all,", "Gives increase where His will would have it fall."]}, {"id": "D5.18.6", "lines": ["We have not rushed to war with all our force,", "But have respected your exalted course."]}, {"id": "D5.18.7", "lines": ["When this imperial letter meets your view,", "Let light make clear the darkened mind in you."]}, {"id": "D5.18.8", "lines": ["Send tribute at the bidding of our might;", "You lack the strength to face us in a fight."]}, {"id": "D5.18.9", "lines": ["Such conduct shows a wise, far-seeing mind,", "With strength and purity of faith combined."]}, {"id": "D5.18.10", "lines": ["But should you turn against what we ordain,", "Then fortune’s turning wheel will bring you pain."]}, {"id": "D5.18.11", "lines": ["Take Dara’s fate and Foor’s to teach you more;", "You need no teacher from a distant shore.”"]}, {"id": "D5.18.12", "lines": ["The wind soon dried the heading on the scroll;", "They set a seal of musk upon the whole."]}, {"id": "D5.18.13", "lines": ["By royal order, on a camel fleet,", "The envoy rode the journey to complete."]}, {"id": "D5.18.14", "lines": ["She marveled at the letter as she read,", "And wondered at the words the Shah had said."]}, {"id": "D5.18.15", "lines": ["Her answer praised the Judge by whom was laid", "The earth, and all the world’s broad fabric made:"]}, {"id": "D5.18.16", "lines": ["“He raised the turning heavens into place,", "And gave both good and evil room in space."]}, {"id": "D5.18.17", "lines": ["He made you triumph over Foor of Hind,", "And Dara, and the mighty chiefs of Sind."]}, {"id": "D5.18.18", "lines": ["Your pride was lifted by the heavy blow", "That struck those famous swordsmen down so low."]}, {"id": "D5.18.19", "lines": ["You rank me with those kings beneath your tread,", "And set the crown of triumph on your head?"]}, {"id": "D5.18.20", "lines": ["My royal glory far surpasses theirs,", "As do the troops and wealth my kingdom bears."]}, {"id": "D5.18.21", "lines": ["Why should I bow to threats or yield to fear,", "And bend to Caesar when his threats draw near?"]}, {"id": "D5.18.22", "lines": ["At court my troops are millions in their might;", "A ruler leads each hundred to the fight."]}, {"id": "D5.18.23", "lines": ["If I should summon all my martial train,", "No room would then remain upon the plain."]}, {"id": "D5.18.24", "lines": ["Each chief who brings an army from my land", "Has treasure in his train at his command."]}, {"id": "D5.18.25", "lines": ["What empty words you utter in your pride!", "Since Dara fell, your boasts have multiplied!”"]}, {"id": "D5.18.26", "lines": ["Her golden seal she pressed upon the scroll;", "A camel sped like wind to reach its goal."]}, {"id": "D5.19.1", "lines": ["Iskandar read the queen’s defiant reply,", "And bade the brazen karnays shake the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.19.2", "lines": ["A month he marched with all his armed train,", "And reached Kaydafa’s border and domain."]}, {"id": "D5.19.3", "lines": ["King Faryan ruled there, prosperous and grand,", "With troops and ample treasure at command."]}, {"id": "D5.19.4", "lines": ["His city stood prepared for war’s fierce might;", "No crane could see its wall-top in its flight."]}, {"id": "D5.19.5", "lines": ["He brought his troops to guard the fortress wall,", "Where horsemen rode along the rampart tall."]}, {"id": "D5.19.6", "lines": ["Iskandar bade the prelate to proceed", "With catapults and engines they would need."]}, {"id": "D5.19.7", "lines": ["Within a week the lofty fortress bent", "Before him; in his noble legions went."]}, {"id": "D5.19.8", "lines": ["Iskandar entered, and his order ran:", "“Let no one shed the blood of any man.”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.9", "lines": ["Kaydafa’s son was married in that town;", "He gladdened Faryan, wearer of its crown."]}, {"id": "D5.19.10", "lines": ["For King Faryan had given him as bride", "His cherished child; Kaydafa swelled his pride."]}, {"id": "D5.19.11", "lines": ["The bridegroom’s name was Qaydrush; for his part,", "He was King Faryan’s eyes and ears and heart."]}, {"id": "D5.19.12", "lines": ["Then Shahrgeer took both Qaydrush and his fair", "Young bride, and held them fast, a captive pair."]}, {"id": "D5.19.13", "lines": ["Iskandar knew the captive whom they brought,", "And formed a secret plan for what he sought."]}, {"id": "D5.19.14", "lines": ["He called his minister before his seat,", "And gave him crown, throne, and command complete."]}, {"id": "D5.19.15", "lines": ["The minister was Bitlqun, wise of mind,", "A counselor to whom fate had been kind."]}, {"id": "D5.19.16", "lines": ["“When they bring in the bride, you shall be known", "As Iskandar Faylaqus on the throne."]}, {"id": "D5.19.17", "lines": ["Sit on the Kayanian throne, and reign;", "I will come girded, standing in your train."]}, {"id": "D5.19.18", "lines": ["Then bid the headsman make Qaydrush lie dead,", "And from his shoulders cut away his head."]}, {"id": "D5.19.19", "lines": ["Then I shall step before your throne and pray,", "And beg that you should turn the blade away."]}, {"id": "D5.19.20", "lines": ["Prepare a private place to hear my plea;", "When I implore you, grant his life to me.”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.21", "lines": ["Bitlqun grew troubled, for he could not know", "What hidden purpose lay beneath the show."]}, {"id": "D5.19.22", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “This secret we must keep;", "Let none discover what lies hidden deep."]}, {"id": "D5.19.23", "lines": ["Call me before you as your envoy then,", "And speak of Queen Kaydafa once again."]}, {"id": "D5.19.24", "lines": ["With ten men I will bear your letter far;", "Bid me bring back her answer where you are.”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.25", "lines": ["Bitlqun replied, “I shall obey your will,", "And practice every craft with secret skill.”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.26", "lines": ["When dawn unsheathed its sword of burning light,", "And drove away the remnants of the night,"]}, {"id": "D5.19.27", "lines": ["Bitlqun assumed the throne in royal dress,", "Though shame and sorrow filled him with distress."]}, {"id": "D5.19.28", "lines": ["Iskandar stood before him, girded, near;", "They closed the doors and kept the chamber clear."]}, {"id": "D5.19.29", "lines": ["Then Shahrgeer led Qaydrush to the king,", "In tears that only bitter grief could bring."]}, {"id": "D5.19.30", "lines": ["His wife was with him, fragrant, fair to see;", "He held her hand amid their misery."]}, {"id": "D5.19.31", "lines": ["Then Bitlqun asked, “Who is this man in woe,", "Whose bitter tears in such profusion flow?”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.32", "lines": ["Qaydrush replied, “Hear what I have to say:", "I am Kaydafa’s son, held here today."]}, {"id": "D5.19.33", "lines": ["This daughter of King Faryan is my wife;", "No other shares my curtained, private life."]}, {"id": "D5.19.34", "lines": ["I went to bring her home, where she would be", "As cherished as my very life to me."]}, {"id": "D5.19.35", "lines": ["Now Shahrgeer holds me; arrows take their toll", "Upon my flesh, and fate has hurt my soul.”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.36", "lines": ["Bitlqun heard all, and sorrow filled his breast;", "His head was pained, his heart by grief oppressed."]}, {"id": "D5.19.37", "lines": ["He raged and told the headsman, “Let him lie", "Beneath the dust; this man is doomed to die."]}, {"id": "D5.19.38", "lines": ["Still bound beside his wife, his life shall end;", "Your Indian sword his neck in two shall rend.”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.39", "lines": ["Then in disguise Iskandar kissed the ground,", "And hailed the Caesar-born, as duty bound:"]}, {"id": "D5.19.40", "lines": ["“If you will grant this captive’s life to me,", "Then honored in this gathering I shall be."]}, {"id": "D5.19.41", "lines": ["Why kill the guiltless out of vengeful hate?", "Yazdan who made the world abhors that fate.”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.42", "lines": ["Then Bitlqun said, “Your pleading spared the two;", "Their lives have been delivered here through you.”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.43", "lines": ["He turned to young Qaydrush: “Your life was done,", "But through this envoy’s plea it has been won."]}, {"id": "D5.19.44", "lines": ["I send him with you; let your mother hear", "My message fully, every matter clear."]}, {"id": "D5.19.45", "lines": ["If she sends tribute, let the bloodshed cease;", "No flesh need then be torn; we shall have peace."]}, {"id": "D5.19.46", "lines": ["Protect this upright minister of mine;", "He speaks of war or feast, as I design."]}, {"id": "D5.19.47", "lines": ["Repay the kindness he has shown today;", "A noble heart seeks kindness to repay."]}, {"id": "D5.19.48", "lines": ["When once the letter’s answer is in hand,", "Send him with royal honor from your land.”"]}, {"id": "D5.19.49", "lines": ["Qaydrush replied, “My heart, my eyes, my ears", "Shall never turn from him through all my years."]}, {"id": "D5.19.50", "lines": ["I cherish him as dearly as my life,", "For I owe him my world, myself, and wife.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.1", "lines": ["The Shah chose ten Romans, loyal and true,", "The trusted few who all his secret knew."]}, {"id": "D5.20.2", "lines": ["He said, “Call me Bitlqun upon the way;", "Let none reveal the part I mean to play.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.3", "lines": ["Qaydrush led on; the king, intent to hear,", "Entrusted him with watchful eye and ear."]}, {"id": "D5.20.4", "lines": ["The lord spurred on like fire upon his steed,", "And reached a crystal mountain at full speed."]}, {"id": "D5.20.5", "lines": ["Fruit trees of every kind grew on its side,", "While grass grew thick across the hillside wide."]}, {"id": "D5.20.6", "lines": ["They journeyed on with haste across the land,", "Toward Queen Kaydafa’s seat of high command."]}, {"id": "D5.20.7", "lines": ["When Queen Kaydafa learned her son was near,", "She listened eagerly, intent to hear."]}, {"id": "D5.20.8", "lines": ["She rode to meet him with a mighty train", "Of famed and fortunate chiefs from her domain."]}, {"id": "D5.20.9", "lines": ["The queen approached; Qaydrush dismounted, bowed,", "And blessed his mother, speaking it aloud."]}, {"id": "D5.20.10", "lines": ["She bade him mount and take his former place,", "Then clasped his hand and rode at equal pace."]}, {"id": "D5.20.11", "lines": ["Qaydrush recounted all his pain and woe;", "His pallor deepened as he told her so."]}, {"id": "D5.20.12", "lines": ["In Faryan’s city, crown and throne were lost;", "His troops and treasure paid the bitter cost."]}, {"id": "D5.20.13", "lines": ["“The man who rides beside my wife and me", "From Iskandar Faylaqus set me free."]}, {"id": "D5.20.14", "lines": ["He would have had my neck struck through, then burned", "My body in the fire, to ashes turned."]}, {"id": "D5.20.15", "lines": ["Grant every wish he places at your feet;", "Oppose him not but make his welcome sweet.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.16", "lines": ["When Queen Kaydafa heard her son’s account,", "Her heavy sorrow rose beyond all count."]}, {"id": "D5.20.17", "lines": ["She summoned him and gave him, at her side,", "A seat where men of honor might abide."]}, {"id": "D5.20.18", "lines": ["She questioned him, and honored him as guest,", "And lodged him in a chamber richly dressed."]}, {"id": "D5.20.19", "lines": ["She sent him food of every kind to eat,", "With clothes and furnishings for his retreat."]}, {"id": "D5.20.20", "lines": ["That night passed by; at dawn he made his way", "To greet the queen and his respects to pay."]}, {"id": "D5.20.21", "lines": ["The servants drew the heavy curtains wide,", "And let him, still on horseback, pass inside."]}, {"id": "D5.20.22", "lines": ["An ivory throne upheld her royal frame;", "Her ruby, turquoise crown shone bright as flame."]}, {"id": "D5.20.23", "lines": ["She wore a Meccan robe of gold brocade,", "With many servants standing to give aid."]}, {"id": "D5.20.24", "lines": ["A covering spread overhead in gold,", "With woven work of jewels to behold."]}, {"id": "D5.20.25", "lines": ["Her face was bright and beautiful as day;", "The crystal columns framed her seat’s display."]}, {"id": "D5.20.26", "lines": ["Her servants stood with torques and earrings bright", "Within the palace decked with gems and light."]}, {"id": "D5.20.27", "lines": ["Iskandar stood and on that splendor gazed,", "And whispered God’s great name and prayed, amazed."]}, {"id": "D5.20.28", "lines": ["Rum and Iran seemed nothing in his eyes", "Beside that seat, so splendid in its guise."]}, {"id": "D5.20.29", "lines": ["He kissed the ground, as flatterers will do,", "Before the queen whose favor he would woo."]}, {"id": "D5.20.30", "lines": ["The queen received him well and kindly pressed", "With gracious questions her attending guest."]}, {"id": "D5.20.31", "lines": ["The sun was fading in the heavens when", "The time for strangers’ audience closed again,"]}, {"id": "D5.20.32", "lines": ["She ordered that the banquet should be spread;", "The call for wine and music swiftly sped."]}, {"id": "D5.20.33", "lines": ["They ranged the teakwood tables, richly bright,", "With gold-star work and ivory forms in sight."]}, {"id": "D5.20.34", "lines": ["They brought abundant food for all to eat,", "Then brought the wine when eating was complete."]}, {"id": "D5.20.35", "lines": ["They set out trays of silver and of gold;", "Kaydafa’s honored name they first extolled."]}, {"id": "D5.20.36", "lines": ["The noble queen observed the stranger well,", "Amid the revelry that round them fell."]}, {"id": "D5.20.37", "lines": ["She told the keeper of her secret store:", "“Bring out the silk I ordered here before."]}, {"id": "D5.20.38", "lines": ["Bring forth the portrait, gently borne and spread;", "Let no rough touch disturb a single thread.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.39", "lines": ["The treasurer brought the silk and set it near;", "She gazed intently till its form was clear."]}, {"id": "D5.20.40", "lines": ["She looked at him, then at the painted face,", "And found no difference in a single trace."]}, {"id": "D5.20.41", "lines": ["She knew that he was Caesar, lord and guide", "Of all the famed troops gathered at his side."]}, {"id": "D5.20.42", "lines": ["He made himself an envoy, bold of heart,", "And entered her assembly in that part."]}, {"id": "D5.20.43", "lines": ["“O fortunate sir,” she said with steady grace,", "“What word from Iskandar comes to this place?”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.44", "lines": ["He said: “The world’s great monarch spoke to me", "Among his chiefs, and gave me this decree:"]}, {"id": "D5.20.45", "lines": ["‘Tell pure Kaydafa: let your heart pursue", "No other path than what is straight and true."]}, {"id": "D5.20.46", "lines": ["See that you do not turn from my command;", "Keep watch upon the covenant we planned."]}, {"id": "D5.20.47", "lines": ["If you resist, a mighty force shall start,", "An army that will break the stoutest heart."]}, {"id": "D5.20.48", "lines": ["I learned of your accomplishments and worth,", "And did not rush to war upon your earth."]}, {"id": "D5.20.49", "lines": ["Your wisdom and your modesty are clear;", "Your subtle counsel keeps the world from fear."]}, {"id": "D5.20.50", "lines": ["If you refuse the tribute at my call,", "Know you have not the strength to face us all."]}, {"id": "D5.20.51", "lines": ["Turn from all crookedness and wrong in you;", "You shall find goodness, all my dealings true.’”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.52", "lines": ["Kaydafa was enraged at what she heard;", "She found no cure but silence, not a word."]}, {"id": "D5.20.53", "lines": ["She said: “Return to lodging now and rest", "With pleasant company, our honored guest."]}, {"id": "D5.20.54", "lines": ["Come back tomorrow; I shall answer then,", "And plan your happy journey home again.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.55", "lines": ["Iskandar then returned to his retreat,", "And planned all night to guard against defeat."]}, {"id": "D5.20.56", "lines": ["At dawn the mountain’s shining lamp rose high;", "The plain shone bright as brocade to the eye."]}, {"id": "D5.20.57", "lines": ["He came with smiling lips before the queen,", "His heart grief-black beneath his cheerful mien."]}, {"id": "D5.20.58", "lines": ["The chamberlain received him at the gate,", "And brought the envoy where the queen would wait."]}, {"id": "D5.20.59", "lines": ["The palace thronged with strangers come to call;", "He saw a crystal chamber in the hall."]}, {"id": "D5.20.60", "lines": ["Carnelian, emerald, worked in patterns bright,", "With royal gems within, enriched the sight."]}, {"id": "D5.20.61", "lines": ["The floor was sandalwood and aloeswood,", "With onyx, turquoise pillars where she stood."]}, {"id": "D5.20.62", "lines": ["He marveled at the splendor of the place:", "“No worshipper has seen such royal grace.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.63", "lines": ["He stepped before her, and a seat of gold", "Was set for him, its finery to behold."]}, {"id": "D5.20.64", "lines": ["“Why stare at this, O Bitlqun?” asked the queen.", "“Has Rum no palace such as you have seen?”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.65", "lines": ["He said: “O queen, do not esteem as small", "The worth and beauty of this royal hall."]}, {"id": "D5.20.66", "lines": ["It rises over halls where monarchs shine;", "Your sea is full of jewels, a precious mine.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.67", "lines": ["Kaydafa smiled; his speech had pleased her well,", "And made her heart with fresh enjoyment swell."]}, {"id": "D5.20.68", "lines": ["She sent her people out and drew him near,", "And seated him beside her, close to hear."]}, {"id": "D5.20.69", "lines": ["She said: “O son of Faylaqus, you share", "Both feast and fight, both joy and bitter care.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.70", "lines": ["Iskandar paled; his soul in anguish grew;", "His cheeks, once bright, took on a lapis hue."]}, {"id": "D5.20.71", "lines": ["He said: “O queen of wisdom, such a word", "From one like you should never have been heard."]}, {"id": "D5.20.72", "lines": ["I thank Yazdan that no great chief came here", "Beside me, where your words would reach his ear."]}, {"id": "D5.20.73", "lines": ["He would have borne this news before the throne,", "And swiftly made my life no more my own."]}, {"id": "D5.20.74", "lines": ["Bitlqun am I, steward of all you see;", "No son of Faylaqus should you call me.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.75", "lines": ["Kaydafa said: “Enough of this dispute;", "You are Iskandar; let your lips be mute."]}, {"id": "D5.20.76", "lines": ["If you should see your face before your eyes,", "Cease all your tricks, and let no anger rise.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.77", "lines": ["She laid the silk before him, where was shown", "His pleasing likeness, clearly his alone."]}, {"id": "D5.20.78", "lines": ["If but the painted image stirred at all,", "It would be Shah Iskandar in the hall."]}, {"id": "D5.20.79", "lines": ["He bit his lip; his day grew dark as night,", "To see his hidden scheme exposed to light."]}, {"id": "D5.20.80", "lines": ["He murmured, “May no man in danger stand", "Without a khanjar ready to his hand.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.81", "lines": ["She said: “Though at your breast you wore a blade,", "No strength or sharpened sword could bring you aid."]}, {"id": "D5.20.82", "lines": ["There is no room for fight or path for flight;", "You have no strength to overcome this plight.”"]}, {"id": "D5.20.83", "lines": ["He said: “The great who seek the world must show", "Their courage on whatever paths they go."]}, {"id": "D5.20.84", "lines": ["They must not turn aside from danger’s ground;", "No coward in the world is lofty-crowned."]}, {"id": "D5.20.85", "lines": ["If I had weapons here, this chamber’s flood", "Would rise around us like a sea of blood."]}, {"id": "D5.20.86", "lines": ["I would slay you; or to my foe lay bare", "My flank, and with my blade my liver tear.”"]}, {"id": "D5.21.1", "lines": ["Kaydafa smiled to see his lion’s pride,", "And spoke with gentle wisdom at his side."]}, {"id": "D5.21.2", "lines": ["She said: “O lion-hearted king, take care;", "Let not your valor lead you to a snare."]}, {"id": "D5.21.3", "lines": ["Not by your glory fell King Foor of Hind,", "Or Dara, Darab’s son, or chiefs of Sind."]}, {"id": "D5.21.4", "lines": ["The fortune of those mighty kings grew small;", "Your star bestowed the greater share of all."]}, {"id": "D5.21.5", "lines": ["Your valor made you reckless in your pride,", "Since time and earth have served you far and wide."]}, {"id": "D5.21.6", "lines": ["Acknowledge God as giver of all good,", "And thank Him all your life, as all men should."]}, {"id": "D5.21.7", "lines": ["You claim through wisdom all the world is due", "To you; I do not find that claim is true."]}, {"id": "D5.21.8", "lines": ["What profit has your wisdom brought to you,", "When you disguise yourself as envoys do?"]}, {"id": "D5.21.9", "lines": ["You walk within the dragon’s breath today;", "In youth you sew your shroud along the way."]}, {"id": "D5.21.10", "lines": ["But bloodshed and a reckless war with kings", "Are not the harvest that my counsel brings."]}, {"id": "D5.21.11", "lines": ["A king with power, if he would be just,", "Shows mercy, as the wise and righteous must."]}, {"id": "D5.21.12", "lines": ["The man who spills a king’s blood in his ire", "Shall reap at last the punishment of fire."]}, {"id": "D5.21.13", "lines": ["Go peacefully and take the homeward way,", "Then turn to some new task without delay."]}, {"id": "D5.21.14", "lines": ["For nevermore shall you as envoy ride,", "Since all the earth will know the face you hide."]}, {"id": "D5.21.15", "lines": ["There is no mighty ruler, far or near,", "Whose likeness I have failed to gather here."]}, {"id": "D5.21.16", "lines": ["On silk their forms are painted, each consigned", "To one of proven care and knowing mind."]}, {"id": "D5.21.17", "lines": ["For each, the reader of the stars makes clear", "If he will bring me safety or bring fear."]}, {"id": "D5.21.18", "lines": ["When kings are generous and wise in thought,", "To men and women is their story brought."]}, {"id": "D5.21.19", "lines": ["I call you Bitlqun while you stay with me,", "And set your seat apart, as yours should be."]}, {"id": "D5.21.20", "lines": ["No man shall know your secret or your name,", "Or hear the voice that tells from where you came."]}, {"id": "D5.21.21", "lines": ["I will dismiss you with a kindly mind,", "If sound and prudent judgment I can find."]}, {"id": "D5.21.22", "lines": ["Swear that against my children and my state,", "My kin and friends, you hold no thought of hate."]}, {"id": "D5.21.23", "lines": ["You shall esteem me as your equal here,", "And hold my realm in honor, free of fear.”"]}, {"id": "D5.21.24", "lines": ["Iskandar heard her words and grew content,", "And felt his fear and dread at last were spent."]}, {"id": "D5.21.25", "lines": ["He swore by the just Judge who rules on high,", "And by the Christian faith beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.21.26", "lines": ["He swore too by the sword with which he fought:", "“No evil purpose shall be in my thought."]}, {"id": "D5.21.27", "lines": ["Toward all your lands and children I shall bear", "Good faith, which all your noble kin shall share."]}, {"id": "D5.21.28", "lines": ["I shall do only what is right and good,", "And keep my dealings truthful, as I should.”"]}, {"id": "D5.21.29", "lines": ["Kaydafa said: “One thing I must declare:", "One warning now deserves your closest care."]}, {"id": "D5.21.30", "lines": ["My son Taynush will scarcely heed my voice;", "He follows reckless paths of his own choice."]}, {"id": "D5.21.31", "lines": ["He is the son-in-law of Foor; guard well", "That of your bond you nothing to him tell."]}, {"id": "D5.21.32", "lines": ["He must not learn you share Iskandar’s heart,", "Or stand his friend and take the monarch’s part."]}, {"id": "D5.21.33", "lines": ["For Foor’s revenge, his fury would be hurled", "To bring the heavens down upon the world."]}, {"id": "D5.21.34", "lines": ["Go to your lodging now with joyful mind,", "And leave the cares of this brief world behind.”"]}, {"id": "D5.21.35", "lines": ["He left, his heart a mountain, firm and high;", "What man of wisdom fears that he must die?"]}, {"id": "D5.21.36", "lines": ["He did not frown at what the queen had said,", "Nor let the hopes within his heart fall dead."]}, {"id": "D5.21.37", "lines": ["He stayed that night, and when the dawn was red,", "He sought the queen as daylight gently spread."]}, {"id": "D5.21.38", "lines": ["The queen sat in her richly furnished hall,", "With ranks of followers around her all."]}, {"id": "D5.21.39", "lines": ["The ceiling shone with onyx and with gold,", "And varied jewels gleamed in colors bold."]}, {"id": "D5.21.40", "lines": ["Before her lay a posy, musk-sweet, fair;", "Her sons and Bitlqun stood before her chair."]}, {"id": "D5.21.41", "lines": ["Horse-felling Taynush stood with Qaydrush near;", "To Kaydafa’s commands both lent an ear."]}, {"id": "D5.21.42", "lines": ["The younger son spoke to his mother wise:", "“O just queen, favored by the smiling skies!"]}, {"id": "D5.21.43", "lines": ["Let Bitlqun leave you happy, satisfied,", "And give him one to lead him as his guide."]}, {"id": "D5.21.44", "lines": ["Let no man treat him as a foreign foe,", "Or bring upon his head a sudden blow."]}, {"id": "D5.21.45", "lines": ["For he has saved my life and made it bright;", "I hold him as my world’s sustaining light.”"]}, {"id": "D5.21.46", "lines": ["She said, “My deeds shall prove my honor true,", "And pay him all the honors rightly due.”"]}, {"id": "D5.21.47", "lines": ["Then she looked at Bitlqun: “Now make it clear,", "What hidden purpose first has brought you here?"]}, {"id": "D5.21.48", "lines": ["What does Iskandar wish? Who guides his throne?", "What royal business have you here made known?”"]}, {"id": "D5.21.49", "lines": ["He said: “O queen, exalted in your reign,", "Too long have I remained in your domain."]}, {"id": "D5.21.50", "lines": ["The Shah said, ‘Ask her tribute; should you stay,", "My legions shall advance without delay."]}, {"id": "D5.21.51", "lines": ["No realm, no crown or throne shall she retain,", "No life, joy, glory, fortune shall remain.’”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.1", "lines": ["When Taynush heard Iskandar’s spoken word,", "He raged like wind, with all his anger stirred."]}, {"id": "D5.22.2", "lines": ["He cried: “You worthless fool! Your wit is small;", "No man would count you as a man at all."]}, {"id": "D5.22.3", "lines": ["Do you not know before whose face you sit?", "Do not display your hand or vaunt your wit."]}, {"id": "D5.22.4", "lines": ["Your head is filled with arrogance and wrath;", "Who is your king, who set you on this path?"]}, {"id": "D5.22.5", "lines": ["Were it not for our sovereign mother’s grace,", "I would tear off your head here in this place,"]}, {"id": "D5.22.6", "lines": ["As from a laden bough one plucks its fruit;", "A citron severed from the parent shoot."]}, {"id": "D5.22.7", "lines": ["Mourning Foor, I will tear your head away,", "And to the gathered troops its face display.”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.8", "lines": ["His mother called to him to still his tongue,", "And at her shout his startled head he swung."]}, {"id": "D5.22.9", "lines": ["She said: “These heavy words are not his own;", "Flay him who sent him from his royal throne.”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.10", "lines": ["She ordered them to drag her son away,", "Out from her presence, where he could not stay."]}, {"id": "D5.22.11", "lines": ["In private then she asked what could be done,", "About her foolish, fiendish-minded son."]}, {"id": "D5.22.12", "lines": ["“In secret he may hatch some weighty crime,", "And bring disaster in a little time."]}, {"id": "D5.22.13", "lines": ["You seek for knowledge; judgment is your guide;", "Consider what is fitting, then decide.”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.14", "lines": ["Iskandar said: “This course is not the best;", "Recall the prince; that is my own request.”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.15", "lines": ["The queen recalled her son and bade him sit,", "Within her splendid court, as she saw fit."]}, {"id": "D5.22.16", "lines": ["Iskandar spoke: “O prince of royal name,", "Be calm, if you would gain the end you claim."]}, {"id": "D5.22.17", "lines": ["I bear no grudge for any words you say;", "I take them all and cast no blame your way."]}, {"id": "D5.22.18", "lines": ["Iskandar sits in joy, with throne and crown;", "He heaps on me the grief that weighs me down."]}, {"id": "D5.22.19", "lines": ["He bade me ask for tribute from your land,", "And sent me to obey that harsh command."]}, {"id": "D5.22.20", "lines": ["So, every harm his enemies intend", "For him falls on the envoy he would send."]}, {"id": "D5.22.21", "lines": ["I shall repay the Shah through my design,", "And offer him a plan that seems benign."]}, {"id": "D5.22.22", "lines": ["If I can take his hand and bring him to", "The place where he stands face to face with you,"]}, {"id": "D5.22.23", "lines": ["Without his legions, sword, or crown or throne,", "No sign of royal power about him shown,"]}, {"id": "D5.22.24", "lines": ["What will you grant me for this hidden snare,", "From all the wealth your royal hands can spare?”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.25", "lines": ["Taynush replied: “I hear what you have told;", "Do not delay until these words grow old."]}, {"id": "D5.22.26", "lines": ["If you accomplish this through wit and might,", "And bring the western monarch to our sight,"]}, {"id": "D5.22.27", "lines": ["The treasure, moneybags, and all the store,", "The horses, royal followers, and more,"]}, {"id": "D5.22.28", "lines": ["I grant you all, with thanks for what you do;", "You conquer worlds, and value kindness, too."]}, {"id": "D5.22.29", "lines": ["You shall be my true minister and hold", "This realm’s rich treasury of wealth and gold.”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.30", "lines": ["Iskandar rose and took him by the hand,", "To seal the pact that both had framed and planned."]}, {"id": "D5.22.31", "lines": ["The prince inquired: “How will you set the snare?", "What magic will accomplish this affair?”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.32", "lines": ["Iskandar said: “When I depart this place,", "You must ride with me at a measured pace."]}, {"id": "D5.22.33", "lines": ["Bring one full thousand horsemen, famed in fight,", "Men fit for battle, proven in their might."]}, {"id": "D5.22.34", "lines": ["Upon my journey here I marked a wood,", "Where all your men may hide as warriors should."]}, {"id": "D5.22.35", "lines": ["I shall leave you in ambush in the shade,", "And go alone to where his camp is made."]}, {"id": "D5.22.36", "lines": ["I shall report, ‘The queen has sent such store,", "That thoughts of wealth need trouble you no more."]}, {"id": "D5.22.37", "lines": ["Her envoy fears to face your armored mass,", "Where countless banners fly, and dares not pass."]}, {"id": "D5.22.38", "lines": ["With priests and wise men, if you choose to go,", "Meet Taynush; he has treasures he would show."]}, {"id": "D5.22.39", "lines": ["On meeting him, receive the wealth he brings,", "Prepared for that day: rich and varied things."]}, {"id": "D5.22.40", "lines": ["On seeing you without your legions near,", "He comes; or may return with passage clear.’"]}, {"id": "D5.22.41", "lines": ["Iskandar, hearing these persuasive lies,", "Will never read the purpose I disguise."]}, {"id": "D5.22.42", "lines": ["Beneath the tree he bids the keeper bring", "The crown and throne, the emblems of a king."]}, {"id": "D5.22.43", "lines": ["Then ring him round with all your armored might,", "And grant him rest from fortune’s endless fight."]}, {"id": "D5.22.44", "lines": ["This wins my vengeance and your heart’s desire,", "And leaves you free from any hostile ire."]}, {"id": "D5.22.45", "lines": ["When you have seized him, I am wholly yours;", "I shall keep watch at gate and palace doors."]}, {"id": "D5.22.46", "lines": ["My fortunes then will flourish through your aid;", "My market, too, shall thrive through this good trade."]}, {"id": "D5.22.47", "lines": ["You shall bear off much silver, gems, and gold,", "With slaves and harnessed steeds within your hold.”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.48", "lines": ["Taynush rejoiced; his face grew proud and bright,", "A cypress standing in the court’s full light."]}, {"id": "D5.22.49", "lines": ["“My hope is that his day shall turn to night,", "And that our hidden snare shall hold him tight."]}, {"id": "D5.22.50", "lines": ["For all the blood his ruthless sword has shed,", "Let vengeance now descend upon his head:"]}, {"id": "D5.22.51", "lines": ["For Dara, noble son of Darab’s line,", "For Sind’s slain warriors, vengeance shall be mine;"]}, {"id": "D5.22.52", "lines": ["For valiant Foor, the pride of Hind’s domain,", "Whose blood Iskandar poured upon the plain.”"]}, {"id": "D5.22.53", "lines": ["Kaydafa heard Iskandar’s subtle speech,", "And grasped the hidden end he hoped to reach."]}, {"id": "D5.22.54", "lines": ["She smiled within, but kept her features still,", "And veiled her coral lips in cloth with skill."]}, {"id": "D5.22.55", "lines": ["Iskandar left her presence deep in thought,", "And weighed with subtle art the plans he wrought."]}, {"id": "D5.23.1", "lines": ["All that long night he planned; then dawn was seen,", "Its border bright with silk brocade of Chin."]}, {"id": "D5.23.2", "lines": ["It raised its golden banner on the height,", "And purple silk sank down before its light."]}, {"id": "D5.23.3", "lines": ["He came before the queen; an attendant rose", "From court to meet him, as the custom goes."]}, {"id": "D5.23.4", "lines": ["They came, as custom bade, the guest to greet;", "The world-seeker approached her royal seat."]}, {"id": "D5.23.5", "lines": ["They cleared the audience hall of strangers then,", "And brought the envoy to the queen again."]}, {"id": "D5.23.6", "lines": ["He saw her on her throne and wished her well:", "“May Jupiter beside your counsel dwell."]}, {"id": "D5.23.7", "lines": ["By Christian faith, by every honest vow,", "By God, who hears the tongue that swears it now;"]}, {"id": "D5.23.8", "lines": ["By the great Cross, its faith, its holy creed,", "By life and head of him whose rule we heed;"]}, {"id": "D5.23.9", "lines": ["By priestly girdle, deacon, sacred name", "Of the Holy Spirit, witness to my claim:"]}, {"id": "D5.23.10", "lines": ["I shall not come to Andalus again,", "Nor send my legions there as fighting men."]}, {"id": "D5.23.11", "lines": ["I will employ no crafty, hidden ruse,", "Or twist this compact toward a false excuse."]}, {"id": "D5.23.12", "lines": ["I will not treat your noble son with spite,", "Nor order harm, nor deal it through my might."]}, {"id": "D5.23.13", "lines": ["I bind true faith upon my inmost soul,", "And shall not wrong you while I keep it whole."]}, {"id": "D5.23.14", "lines": ["Who wishes you well is my brother true;", "I grant him all the brotherhood his due."]}, {"id": "D5.23.15", "lines": ["Your throne shall be as sacred to my eye", "As that great Cross which stands beneath the sky.”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.16", "lines": ["Kaydafa marked the solemn words he swore,", "His honest pledge that war would rise no more."]}, {"id": "D5.23.17", "lines": ["She had the palace filled with seats of gold,", "With ornaments from Chin, fair to behold."]}, {"id": "D5.23.18", "lines": ["She called her chiefs, whom kindly stars had blessed;", "On golden seats she placed each honored guest."]}, {"id": "D5.23.19", "lines": ["She sent for both her well-beloved sons,", "And all her noble kin, the honored ones."]}, {"id": "D5.23.20", "lines": ["Then thus addressed them: “In this passing sphere,", "We need not suffer so through grief and fear."]}, {"id": "D5.23.21", "lines": ["Why should this turning world give me a share", "Of only war and hatred I must bear?"]}, {"id": "D5.23.22", "lines": ["Iskandar still will seek for greater gain,", "Though he should bring the sky beneath his reign."]}, {"id": "D5.23.23", "lines": ["He seeks our suffering for wealth and spoil;", "No earthly wealth is worth such grief and toil."]}, {"id": "D5.23.24", "lines": ["I counsel peace and ask you not to fight,", "Nor press the kingdom into such a plight."]}, {"id": "D5.23.25", "lines": ["But let us send an answer, firm and clear,", "With honor and with counsel he should hear."]}, {"id": "D5.23.26", "lines": ["If after counsel he still lifts his hands,", "Then let him learn the rigor of my bands."]}, {"id": "D5.23.27", "lines": ["I with our soldiers will confront his might,", "Till heaven and moon shall pity his poor plight."]}, {"id": "D5.23.28", "lines": ["To try this course can bring us little woe;", "Perhaps a lasting friendship yet may grow."]}, {"id": "D5.23.29", "lines": ["What say you? Let me hear what you advise;", "Bless this design of mine, if it is wise.”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.30", "lines": ["The chiefs all raised their heads and answered clear:", "“O queen of justice whom our souls revere,"]}, {"id": "D5.23.31", "lines": ["No one recalls a chief so just and kind,", "So generous in heart, so sound of mind."]}, {"id": "D5.23.32", "lines": ["You speak of nothing but the righteous deed;", "How blessed the realm that follows where you lead!"]}, {"id": "D5.23.33", "lines": ["If this great Shah becomes your trusted friend,", "What more could good men wish for in the end?"]}, {"id": "D5.23.34", "lines": ["Your treasure need not bear the cost of strife;", "No wealth is worth the torment of your life."]}, {"id": "D5.23.35", "lines": ["An Iskandar who comes from Rum can wield", "A sword that makes a sea of every field."]}, {"id": "D5.23.36", "lines": ["Should gifts turn him from your gates, it is plain", "All worldly wealth is worth a paltry grain."]}, {"id": "D5.23.37", "lines": ["We see no course but peace to end this strife;", "No noble man makes war his aim in life.”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.38", "lines": ["When she had heard those men of wisdom speak,", "Those honored Mobadan, pure in all they seek,"]}, {"id": "D5.23.39", "lines": ["She took the crown her ancient father wore,", "From opened vaults, with bracelets, torques, and store."]}, {"id": "D5.23.40", "lines": ["It was a crown of such surpassing worth,", "None there could price its jewels upon the earth."]}, {"id": "D5.23.41", "lines": ["She told the envoy: “Priceless is this thing;", "None else should wear it but that mighty king."]}, {"id": "D5.23.42", "lines": ["Since I have judged him worthy of its grace,", "Above a precious son I give him place.”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.43", "lines": ["Her throne had seventy parts; a craftsman’s art", "Could join them all, then take the whole apart."]}, {"id": "D5.23.44", "lines": ["Its pieces interlocked in ordered line,", "With twisted pins to hold the grand design."]}, {"id": "D5.23.45", "lines": ["Its feet were dragon-headed; gems aglow", "Adorned it, worth far more than men could know."]}, {"id": "D5.23.46", "lines": ["Four hundred royal gems adorned the throne,", "Each set to show the splendor of its stone."]}, {"id": "D5.23.47", "lines": ["Four hundred rubies, too, were set in place,", "Their brilliant redness lending it their grace."]}, {"id": "D5.23.48", "lines": ["Each weighed two mithqals, each a crimson bead,", "As red in color as pomegranate seed."]}, {"id": "D5.23.49", "lines": ["Four hundred emeralds, pristine, were seen,", "Like rainbow light in all their shining green."]}, {"id": "D5.23.50", "lines": ["The throne filled forty camel-loads; and she", "Was vast of heart, like waves upon the sea."]}, {"id": "D5.23.51", "lines": ["Five hundred ivory pieces then were brought,", "Whose measure passed the reach of human thought."]}, {"id": "D5.23.52", "lines": ["Four hundred leopard skins of Barbari", "Were gathered for the gift, a wealth to see."]}, {"id": "D5.23.53", "lines": ["A thousand dappled deer skins, spread out wide,", "With varied patterns, lay there side by side."]}, {"id": "D5.23.54", "lines": ["A hundred hounds she gave to speed the chase,", "Outrunning arrows in a rapid race."]}, {"id": "D5.23.55", "lines": ["Two hundred buffaloes were led before,", "By servants driving them from royal store."]}, {"id": "D5.23.56", "lines": ["Four hundred shiz-wood couches, finely made,", "Were clothed in khazz and splendid silk brocade."]}, {"id": "D5.23.57", "lines": ["Four hundred boards of aloeswood were brought;", "Each bore a seal, with golden color wrought."]}, {"id": "D5.23.58", "lines": ["A hundred high-bred steeds were brought to view,", "With fine caparisons of splendid hue."]}, {"id": "D5.23.59", "lines": ["A thousand Indian swords and khanjars then", "Were brought, with jowshans, for the fighting men."]}, {"id": "D5.23.60", "lines": ["Twelve hundred helms and headpieces were brought;", "She urged her keeper: “Haste in deed and thought."]}, {"id": "D5.23.61", "lines": ["Count out the gifts; tell Bitlqun not to stay,", "But be prepared to leave at break of day.”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.62", "lines": ["Next morning raised its banner to the height,", "And spread across the world its camphor light."]}, {"id": "D5.23.63", "lines": ["Earth freshened, mountains glowed as resin glows;", "Palace tabiras rang as morning rose."]}, {"id": "D5.23.64", "lines": ["Iskandar took his leave without delay,", "With leave to mount and take the homeward way."]}, {"id": "D5.23.65", "lines": ["Taynush had all his men their steeds bestride,", "Then rode to court to stand by Kaydafa’s side."]}, {"id": "D5.23.66", "lines": ["They bade Kaydafa farewell: “May you stay", "A living thread in heaven’s bright array!”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.67", "lines": ["They journeyed onward over hill and field,", "Until Iskandar’s battle camp was revealed."]}, {"id": "D5.23.68", "lines": ["The camp of that famed Shah before them lay,", "Whose fortune smiled upon him on his way."]}, {"id": "D5.23.69", "lines": ["Iskandar left the baggage where trees grew,", "With running water flowing clear and true."]}, {"id": "D5.23.70", "lines": ["“Rest here, Taynush, and ease your heart and mind;", "Then take the wine-cup, leaving care behind."]}, {"id": "D5.23.71", "lines": ["I will go forward to make good my word,", "With sound advice to serve what you have heard.”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.72", "lines": ["Iskandar reached his camp; his legions came,", "With shouts of joy to glorify his name."]}, {"id": "D5.23.73", "lines": ["They decked his Kayanian crown; all had despaired,", "And wondered how their missing master fared."]}, {"id": "D5.23.74", "lines": ["With tongues of praise they fell upon the ground,", "To see their king secure, alive, and sound."]}, {"id": "D5.23.75", "lines": ["Iskandar chose a thousand men of fame,", "All Roman warriors hardened in the flame."]}, {"id": "D5.23.76", "lines": ["With ox-head gorzes, jowshans, all arrayed,", "The warriors marched out toward the forest shade."]}, {"id": "D5.23.77", "lines": ["They formed an iron circle round the wood,", "To trap Taynush where he securely stood."]}, {"id": "D5.23.78", "lines": ["Iskandar cried: “Rash man, what seems now right:", "To stand and fight, or turn and take to flight?”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.79", "lines": ["Repenting now, Taynush was filled with dread,", "And shook as fearful thoughts assailed his head."]}, {"id": "D5.23.80", "lines": ["He cried: “High-minded Shah, let grace appear;", "Choose praise instead of blame while we are here."]}, {"id": "D5.23.81", "lines": ["Was this the pledge you to my mother swore,", "That truth should guide your actions evermore?"]}, {"id": "D5.23.82", "lines": ["As to my kinsman Qaydrush, show me grace;", "Let greatness and true dealing rule this place.”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.83", "lines": ["Iskandar said: “O prince, why lose your might", "And falter at so small a thing in fright?"]}, {"id": "D5.23.84", "lines": ["But have no fear; from me you shall be free", "Of harm, and so shall all your kindred be."]}, {"id": "D5.23.85", "lines": ["I shall keep faith; it is an evil thing", "To break the solemn promise of a king.”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.86", "lines": ["Taynush dismounted, trembling, from his steed,", "And kissed the earth before the Shah to plead."]}, {"id": "D5.23.87", "lines": ["The mighty Shah clasped hands again, and now", "He sealed the covenant, their former vow."]}, {"id": "D5.23.88", "lines": ["He said: “Be of good cheer; dismiss your dread,", "For no avenging sword shall seek your head."]}, {"id": "D5.23.89", "lines": ["When on her golden throne your mother sat,", "I took your hand in mine; remember that."]}, {"id": "D5.23.90", "lines": ["I said the hand of him who rules the land", "Would thus be placed by me within your hand."]}, {"id": "D5.23.91", "lines": ["This very day my promise I complete;", "A king’s incautious words are not discreet."]}, {"id": "D5.23.92", "lines": ["I am Iskandar; I was then the same,", "When pleasant tales concealed my royal name."]}, {"id": "D5.23.93", "lines": ["Kaydafa knew whose hand you held that day:", "The king’s own hand within your fingers lay.”"]}, {"id": "D5.23.94", "lines": ["Then Caesar bade his men arrange his seat", "Beneath a tree that scattered blossoms sweet."]}, {"id": "D5.23.95", "lines": ["They spread the board with wine and music loud,", "To banish sorrow from the royal crowd."]}, {"id": "D5.23.96", "lines": ["The Shah gave him royal robes, rich display,", "From Rum and Chin and Pahlavi array."]}, {"id": "D5.23.97", "lines": ["His comrades gained both silver and bright gold,", "With caps and belts befitting rank and mold."]}, {"id": "D5.23.98", "lines": ["“Do not stay here,” he said, “but take your way;", "This wood lies far; it is no place to stay."]}, {"id": "D5.23.99", "lines": ["Tell wise Kaydafa, ruler, keen of sight,", "Whose counsel sees the course of action right:"]}, {"id": "D5.23.100", "lines": ["‘I shall keep faith as long as I draw breath;", "My soul loves you and yours until my death.’”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.1", "lines": ["The Shah marched to the country of the wise,", "To see the Brahmans under open skies."]}, {"id": "D5.24.2", "lines": ["He wished to learn their ancient holy rite,", "From men devoted to the inward light."]}, {"id": "D5.24.3", "lines": ["The Brahmans heard the tidings from the plain,", "That Shah Iskandar led his battle train."]}, {"id": "D5.24.4", "lines": ["Down from the heights those devotees then came,", "And gathered when they heard Iskandar’s name."]}, {"id": "D5.24.5", "lines": ["The sages wrote then to the foreign king,", "To state the humble message they would bring."]}, {"id": "D5.24.6", "lines": ["The letter opened with a blessing’s phrase:", "Invoking God to bless the Shah’s long days."]}, {"id": "D5.24.7", "lines": ["“May triumph crown the great Shah’s earthly reign,", "And wisdom, power, and greatness be his gain."]}, {"id": "D5.24.8", "lines": ["God has bestowed on you the earth’s expanse,", "Wherever your great banners may advance."]}, {"id": "D5.24.9", "lines": ["Brave king, what seek you in our meager land,", "The dwelling of a poor, devoted band?"]}, {"id": "D5.24.10", "lines": ["If wealth has drawn you to our barren ground,", "Then wisdom in your counsel is not found."]}, {"id": "D5.24.11", "lines": ["Our wealth is patience, knowledge of the wise;", "Through knowledge joy within our spirits lies."]}, {"id": "D5.24.12", "lines": ["No one can steal our patience from us here;", "Nor need our knowledge give men cause for fear."]}, {"id": "D5.24.13", "lines": ["You will but see a naked band today,", "Dispersed by wind and snow along the way."]}, {"id": "D5.24.14", "lines": ["If you remain here long, the grasses’ seed", "Will be the food on which you too must feed.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.15", "lines": ["The envoy came, a girdle round him tied,", "Of roots of grass, and stood at Caesar’s side."]}, {"id": "D5.24.16", "lines": ["The Shah received the letter from his hand,", "And chose to bring no sorrow to their land."]}, {"id": "D5.24.17", "lines": ["He left his legions waiting on the plain,", "And rode with Rum’s philosophers in train."]}, {"id": "D5.24.18", "lines": ["They heard, and came to meet him on the way,", "Each stepping forth to greet the Shah that day."]}, {"id": "D5.24.19", "lines": ["They brought him humble gifts from open field,", "For they had neither gold nor harvest yield."]}, {"id": "D5.24.20", "lines": ["They blessed that noble monarch of the earth,", "And praised his lofty spirit and his worth."]}, {"id": "D5.24.21", "lines": ["Iskandar saw their faces, heard their speech,", "And listened to the voices raised by each."]}, {"id": "D5.24.22", "lines": ["They ran with bodies naked, head to toe;", "Their souls held knowledge, though no robes to show."]}, {"id": "D5.24.23", "lines": ["With grass for clothing, seeds their only fare,", "They lived at ease, secure from war and care."]}, {"id": "D5.24.24", "lines": ["They ate and slept on plain and mountain height,", "And wandered naked in the open light."]}, {"id": "D5.24.25", "lines": ["Their food was fruit and seeds from mountain ground,", "The plants that on the slopes grew all around."]}, {"id": "D5.24.26", "lines": ["The plains were full of game; the plants they sought", "Gave food and covering the earth had brought."]}, {"id": "D5.24.27", "lines": ["He asked them how they slept and what they ate,", "Of peaceful ease and life’s not troubled state."]}, {"id": "D5.24.28", "lines": ["“What share have you of all the world holds dear,", "Who live without a trace of dread or fear?”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.29", "lines": ["A sage replied: “O king of far-flung lands,", "We speak of neither shame nor fighting bands."]}, {"id": "D5.24.30", "lines": ["We need no clothes or food of costly kind,", "Nor sumptuous bedding to content the mind."]}, {"id": "D5.24.31", "lines": ["Since man is born into his nakedness,", "He should not boast of luxury of dress."]}, {"id": "D5.24.32", "lines": ["And naked he returns at last to clay,", "With fear and care besetting every way."]}, {"id": "D5.24.33", "lines": ["Earth is our couch, and heaven is our gown;", "We watch till death shall come to lay us down."]}, {"id": "D5.24.34", "lines": ["How fiercely proud and grasping men seek gain,", "Though nothing won is worth such toil and pain."]}, {"id": "D5.24.35", "lines": ["For when one leaves this fleeting house of clay,", "His treasure and his rank must fall away."]}, {"id": "D5.24.36", "lines": ["But virtue follows where his footsteps go,", "When rank and glory vanish here below.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.37", "lines": ["Iskandar asked: “Which numbers more down here:", "The things concealed, or those that plain appear?"]}, {"id": "D5.24.38", "lines": ["The living, or the dead, whose wants are stilled,", "Who have no further needs to be fulfilled?”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.39", "lines": ["The sage replied: “O Shah, count all the dead;", "A hundred thousand, from whom life has fled."]}, {"id": "D5.24.40", "lines": ["Among those thousands, not one lives to tell;", "How blessed is he who is not cast in hell!"]}, {"id": "D5.24.41", "lines": ["The living too must die and meet their doom;", "One goes, another follows to the tomb.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.42", "lines": ["The Shah inquired: “Which stretches farther wide,", "The lands beneath us or the ocean tide?”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.43", "lines": ["The Brahman answered: “Water cloaks earth’s face,", "And keeps the land within its broad embrace.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.44", "lines": ["He asked: “Who wakes from sleep, and who does wrong", "Among earth’s creatures as they move along?"]}, {"id": "D5.24.45", "lines": ["They move and live awhile yet cannot say", "What they are doing in the world each day.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.46", "lines": ["The Brahman answered: “Pure of heart and keen,", "O chief who seeks the truths that lie unseen,"]}, {"id": "D5.24.47", "lines": ["The guiltiest is he whose mind is blind,", "Who feeds on hate and greed against mankind."]}, {"id": "D5.24.48", "lines": ["If you would know this truth, regard your state,", "And judge the restless hunger grown so great."]}, {"id": "D5.24.49", "lines": ["All earth is yours; you speak as though the sky", "Were your own kin, revolving there on high."]}, {"id": "D5.24.50", "lines": ["Yet still you scheme for more, still seek to claim", "Black earth’s own marrow in your grasping aim."]}, {"id": "D5.24.51", "lines": ["Your soul desires hell; may this advice", "Turn you from such a habit and its price.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.52", "lines": ["The Shah inquired: “Who rules our souls, and stays", "Beside us as we walk in crooked ways?”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.53", "lines": ["The Brahman said: “Greed is the king within,", "The source of hatred and the home of sin.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.54", "lines": ["“What is this wealth,” the king inquired, “we keep,", "For whose increase a man has cause to weep?”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.55", "lines": ["The Brahman said: “Both Greed and Need take hold;", "Two wretched fiends, they breed a hundredfold."]}, {"id": "D5.24.56", "lines": ["One’s lips are dry because his share is slight;", "The other’s plenty steals his sleep at night."]}, {"id": "D5.24.57", "lines": ["Both pass their days in anguish; blessed is he", "Whose soul accepts what wisdom lets him see.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.58", "lines": ["Iskandar’s face grew pale to hear him speak,", "And yellow as the bloom of fenugreek."]}, {"id": "D5.24.59", "lines": ["His yellow cheeks were wet with tears of pain;", "His smiling face grew troubled by the strain."]}, {"id": "D5.24.60", "lines": ["The Shah then asked: “What would you have me do?", "What need have you that I can meet for you?"]}, {"id": "D5.24.61", "lines": ["I shall not grudge my treasure for your sake,", "Nor shrink from any pains that I must take.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.62", "lines": ["One said: “Deliver us from age and death,", "To keep the vigor of our mortal breath.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.63", "lines": ["“No plea avails with death,” the Shah replied;", "“No man escapes when death stands at his side."]}, {"id": "D5.24.64", "lines": ["Though you were iron, you would find no way", "To flee the dragon’s claws upon that day."]}, {"id": "D5.24.65", "lines": ["However long the days of youth may run,", "They cannot keep old age from anyone.”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.66", "lines": ["The Brahman said: “Wise Shah, death has no cure;", "No plague is worse than age we must endure."]}, {"id": "D5.24.67", "lines": ["Why strive to win the world with all your power,", "And vainly breathe the scent of poison-flower?"]}, {"id": "D5.24.68", "lines": ["Your suffering remains when life is done;", "Your foes receive the wealth your toil has won."]}, {"id": "D5.24.69", "lines": ["To bear such toil for others’ wealth and rule", "Shows little wisdom; it befits a fool."]}, {"id": "D5.24.70", "lines": ["White hair is death’s first herald sent to man;", "Why hope for life beyond your measured span?”"]}, {"id": "D5.24.71", "lines": ["The shrewd Shah said, “If any man could flee", "The will of God, that man would surely be"]}, {"id": "D5.24.72", "lines": ["Myself, if schemes against the turning sky", "Could grant the means His portion to defy."]}, {"id": "D5.24.73", "lines": ["No learned sage, no warrior in the field,", "Can shun His law or make His judgment yield."]}, {"id": "D5.24.74", "lines": ["Those slain in war with me, whose fortune’s day", "Was overturned, their harsh stars’ helpless prey,"]}, {"id": "D5.24.75", "lines": ["Deserved their suffering and their blood’s outflow;", "No tyrant can escape the destined blow."]}, {"id": "D5.24.76", "lines": ["God chastened them for leaving wisdom’s path;", "And on that day they bore His righteous wrath."]}, {"id": "D5.24.77", "lines": ["No man escapes the will of God on high,", "Or finds excuse when time decrees we die.”"]}, {"id": "D5.25.1", "lines": ["Iskandar gave them gifts from all his store;", "They had but little greed to ask for more."]}, {"id": "D5.25.2", "lines": ["He left without inflicting harm that day;", "From there Iskandar westward made his way,"]}, {"id": "D5.25.3", "lines": ["He left the Brahmans’ land; a sea lay wide", "And deep before him, boundless on each side."]}, {"id": "D5.25.4", "lines": ["Like women, men had veils about each face,", "With scents and colored garments in that place."]}, {"id": "D5.25.5", "lines": ["Not Arabic, nor Pahlavi would do;", "Nor Turk, Chin, Khosravi; their speech none knew."]}, {"id": "D5.25.6", "lines": ["They lived on fish beside the western shore;", "No road could bring supplies or other store."]}, {"id": "D5.25.7", "lines": ["Iskandar stood astonished at the sight,", "And called upon Yazdan of power and might."]}, {"id": "D5.25.8", "lines": ["A mountain rose, still wet, before their eyes,", "Fresh from the sea, as yellow as sunrise."]}, {"id": "D5.25.9", "lines": ["The Shah sought out a swift ship, keen to view", "With his own eyes the marvel in the blue."]}, {"id": "D5.25.10", "lines": ["One sage addressed him: “Do not go, O king;", "The deep is not your path to seek this thing."]}, {"id": "D5.25.11", "lines": ["Stay here; let someone of small learning go", "And see the marvel that the waters show.”"]}, {"id": "D5.25.12", "lines": ["Thirty Romans and Iranians came aboard", "The boat prepared at bidding of their lord."]}, {"id": "D5.25.13", "lines": ["That mountain was a yellow fish; they drew", "Still closer to obtain a clearer view."]}, {"id": "D5.25.14", "lines": ["It swiftly took their ship beneath the flow,", "And vanished from their sight in depths below."]}, {"id": "D5.25.15", "lines": ["The legions stood astonished where they came,", "And every man invoked the Maker’s name."]}, {"id": "D5.25.16", "lines": ["The Roman said: “No wealth with knowledge vies;", "The wise, like me, above the mighty rise."]}, {"id": "D5.25.17", "lines": ["Had the Shah ventured into that dark snare,", "His legions would have borne a weight of care.”"]}, {"id": "D5.25.18", "lines": ["He led his legions onward from that shore;", "Another stretch of water lay before. "]}, {"id": "D5.25.19", "lines": ["Around the water reeds like forests rose;", "Each thick as plane-tree trunks in ordered rows."]}, {"id": "D5.25.20", "lines": ["Each reed was more than two rash broad below,", "And forty rash in height its stem would grow."]}, {"id": "D5.25.21", "lines": ["Their houses all were built of wood and reed,", "With reeds beneath to serve foundations’ need."]}, {"id": "D5.25.22", "lines": ["They could not linger in that reedy place,", "Nor drink the brine, but left at rapid pace."]}, {"id": "D5.25.23", "lines": ["At length a deep and shining lake appeared;", "Its honeyed water every spirit cheered."]}, {"id": "D5.25.24", "lines": ["The fragrant soil breathed musk on every side;", "They ate their fill and slept beside the tide."]}, {"id": "D5.25.25", "lines": ["Then from the lake rose snakes; the woods around", "Poured flame-red scorpions out upon the ground."]}, {"id": "D5.25.26", "lines": ["The world grew black; the sleepers woke in pain;", "Their world closed in about them on that plain."]}, {"id": "D5.25.27", "lines": ["Both learned men and valiant chiefs had died;", "Their corpses lay together far and wide."]}, {"id": "D5.25.28", "lines": ["A hundred boars charged forth, their long tusks shown,", "Each hard and sharp as gleaming diamond stone."]}, {"id": "D5.25.29", "lines": ["From the other side came lions none could face;", "Each larger than an ox, they stalked the place."]}, {"id": "D5.25.30", "lines": ["The legions drew aside from that dread mere,", "And set the reeds aflame as beasts drew near."]}, {"id": "D5.25.31", "lines": ["They slew so many beasts along the way;", "Their heaped-up bodies blocked the road that day."]}, {"id": "D5.26.1", "lines": ["From there the sunlike Shah pushed on, and pressed", "To reach Habash, and would not pause to rest."]}, {"id": "D5.26.2", "lines": ["The ground was raven-black with men whose eyes", "Shone bright as lamps beneath the open skies."]}, {"id": "D5.26.3", "lines": ["A mighty army stood before his train,", "Their powerful bodies naked on the plain."]}, {"id": "D5.26.4", "lines": ["They saw afar the army’s dust arise,", "And raised above the troops their battle cries."]}, {"id": "D5.26.5", "lines": ["In thousands upon thousands came their might,", "Until the monarch’s eyes grew dark as night."]}, {"id": "D5.26.6", "lines": ["They rushed toward Iskandar through the throng,", "And slew brave warriors as they pressed along."]}, {"id": "D5.26.7", "lines": ["They carried bones as spearpoints in the fight,", "And drove them through men’s bodies, left and right."]}, {"id": "D5.26.8", "lines": ["The Shah then sent the order through his force;", "They took their arms for battle, man and horse."]}, {"id": "D5.26.9", "lines": ["Unclothed, the men of Habash joined the fray;", "The lion-hearted troops gave way to dismay."]}, {"id": "D5.26.10", "lines": ["Then flashed the monarch’s mail, the spears advanced, ", "And through the naked throng their iron glanced."]}, {"id": "D5.26.11", "lines": ["The royal blades cut down the frantic train; ", "The survivors broke and fled across the plain."]}, {"id": "D5.26.12", "lines": ["Like Chin’s great rolling sea, the field lay red;", "So deep the blood that pooled from those now dead."]}, {"id": "D5.26.13", "lines": ["When heaps of fallen covered all the ground, ", "They piled up brush and burned the dead around."]}, {"id": "D5.26.14", "lines": ["At night the kargadan’s loud cry rang clear;", "Iskandar donned his helm and armored gear."]}, {"id": "D5.26.15", "lines": ["One, greater than an elephant, came through,", "Its head crowned with a horn of darkest blue."]}, {"id": "D5.26.16", "lines": ["It slew full many chiefs upon the field;", "Though charged again, it never turned to yield."]}, {"id": "D5.26.17", "lines": ["At last, their arrows pierced the monster’s hide;", "That iron mount, which seized great elephants, died."]}, {"id": "D5.26.18", "lines": ["He praised the World-Maker’s celestial grace, ", "And marched his army swiftly from the place."]}, {"id": "D5.27.1.1", "lines": ["Then swiftly he marched on, invoking still", "The name of God, who judges good and ill."]}, {"id": "D5.27.1.2", "lines": ["He reached the Narm-Pawyawn, where his searching eyes", "Beheld an army of enormous size."]}, {"id": "D5.27.1.3", "lines": ["No horse or armor, sword or gorz was seen;", "Each stood as tall as cypress, straight and lean."]}, {"id": "D5.27.1.4", "lines": ["They roared like rattling thunder through the air,", "Like Divs, and with their bodies wholly bare."]}, {"id": "D5.27.1.5", "lines": ["They showered stones as fiercely as a blast", "That strips the autumn trees as it goes past."]}, {"id": "D5.27.1.6", "lines": ["The Roman legions pressed with sword and bow;", "Bright day seemed black amid the battle’s flow."]}, {"id": "D5.27.1.7", "lines": ["When few Narm-Pawyawn still remained that day,", "He rested, then his legions marched away."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.1", "lines": ["He led his legions onward through the land,", "And reached a boundless city, broad and grand."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.2", "lines": ["All gladly came to meet him as he went,", "With open hearts, from need free and content."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.3", "lines": ["They brought him carpets, garments richly made,", "And ample food before the king was laid."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.4", "lines": ["Iskandar greeted them with noble grace,", "And honored each according to his place."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.5", "lines": ["They pitched his royal tent upon the plain;", "No city quarters housed his marching train."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.6", "lines": ["He saw a mountain thrust its head on high,", "Among the stars, as though to draw the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.7", "lines": ["Few were the people on that rocky height,", "And not a soul remained there through the night."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.8", "lines": ["He asked: “Which path is safe for us to tread?", "How shall my army through these heights be led?”"]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.9", "lines": ["They blessed him, saying: “Shah of earth, renowned,", "May praise and blessing compass you around!"]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.10", "lines": ["Across this mountain runs a track to ride,", "If you could pass it with someone to guide."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.11", "lines": ["A dragon dwells beyond the mountain’s height,", "Whose venom saps the wolf and wastes its might."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.12", "lines": ["No army dares to cross that mountain’s face;", "Its poisonous smoke climbs to the moon’s high place."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.13", "lines": ["Great flames erupt from its enormous maw,", "Its twin locks trap the elephants they draw."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.14", "lines": ["It eats five oxen every single night;", "Our whole town lacks the strength to face its might."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.15", "lines": ["We seek the cattle, then, by fear oppressed,", "Bear them to feed it on the rocky crest."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.16", "lines": ["Lest it should cross the mountain to our side,", "And swallow us in groups, we thus provide.”"]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.17", "lines": ["One of the Shah’s men paid what he would need,", "And brought five oxen for the dragon’s feed."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.18", "lines": ["He killed the oxen, stripped their hides with care,", "And from them shaped the craft to set his snare."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.19", "lines": ["He stuffed the hides with naphtha mixed with bane,", "And hastened toward the dragon’s dread domain."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.20", "lines": ["He bade them lift the hides at his command,", "And pass the heavy burden hand to hand."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.21", "lines": ["When Shah Iskandar neared the dragon’s den,", "It seemed a hanging cloud to all his men."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.22", "lines": ["Its tongue was blue, its eyes were red as blood,", "And from its mouth the flame poured in a flood."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.23", "lines": ["They cast the cattle from the mountain’s crown,", "And watched the dragon as the hides fell down."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.24", "lines": ["The moment those brave hands released their hold,", "The dragon swallowed them as down they rolled."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.25", "lines": ["When skin and flesh had filled its monstrous frame,", "The poison spread through every limb like flame."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.26", "lines": ["It pierced its entrails, boring through with bane,", "And opened up a passage to its brain."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.27", "lines": ["It dashed its heavy head against the rock,", "And kept on beating, shock succeeding shock."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.28", "lines": ["The legions showered arrows on its hide,", "Until that mountain terror fell and died."]}, {"id": "D5.27.2.29", "lines": ["They left the dragon’s body where it lay,", "And swiftly led the legions on their way."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.1", "lines": ["He brought his legions to another height,", "That left the warriors wondering at the sight."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.2", "lines": ["So high it rose, the eye could scarcely trace", "Its summit, like a sword blade set in space."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.3", "lines": ["A golden throne stood gleaming on the crest,", "Far from the throng, in solitude at rest."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.4", "lines": ["An old man lay there, dead upon the throne;", "His Glory seemed to shine though life had flown."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.5", "lines": ["Brocade was drawn across him, richly spread;", "A crown of varied gems adorned his head."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.6", "lines": ["Around him silver gleamed and gold shone bright;", "No one could gain access to that high site."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.7", "lines": ["Whoever scaled the summit seeking gold,", "To take some treasure from the dead man’s hold,"]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.8", "lines": ["Would tremble there in terror, lose his breath,", "And vanish on that very spot in death."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.9", "lines": ["Iskandar climbed the mountain’s utmost height,", "To view the corpse enthroned before his sight."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.10", "lines": ["A voice cried: “Shah, through many a changing day,", "You long have walked the world upon your way."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.11", "lines": ["You emptied royal thrones and raised your head", "To heaven’s height through all the life you led."]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.12", "lines": ["You ruined many friends and foes while here;", "The hour has come to leave this earthly sphere.”"]}, {"id": "D5.27.3.13", "lines": ["His face shone like a lamp at what he heard;", "He left the height, his heart scarred by the word."]}, {"id": "D5.28.1", "lines": ["On marching with his chiefs of Roman fame,", "To Harum’s city Shah Iskandar came."]}, {"id": "D5.28.2", "lines": ["The city’s women ruled it, fierce and bold,", "Who let no stranger pass within their hold."]}, {"id": "D5.28.3", "lines": ["Their right breasts kept a woman’s rounded line,", "Like pomegranates under silk so fine."]}, {"id": "D5.28.4", "lines": ["Their left sides seemed like men’s in war array,", "Who put on jowshans for the battle day."]}, {"id": "D5.28.5", "lines": ["The Shah approached Harum with all his band,", "The Roman nobles riding at his hand."]}, {"id": "D5.28.6", "lines": ["He wrote a letter with due form and grace,", "As well became a man of noble race."]}, {"id": "D5.28.7", "lines": ["He wrote: “From Iran’s Shah and Rum’s, we write", "To those who hold Harum in royal might."]}, {"id": "D5.28.8", "lines": ["First praise the Maker of the heavens above,", "The source of bounty, justice, and of love."]}, {"id": "D5.28.9", "lines": ["Whoever bears a wise and thoughtful mind,", "And journeys through the life to him assigned,"]}, {"id": "D5.28.10", "lines": ["Has heard what we have done in every land,", "And knows how high we raised our sovereign hand."]}, {"id": "D5.28.11", "lines": ["Whoever from my order turns his head", "Shall find no couch but dark earth for his bed."]}, {"id": "D5.28.12", "lines": ["I wish no place in all the world to lie", "Beyond the reach of my enquiring eye."]}, {"id": "D5.28.13", "lines": ["If I approach, my purpose is no fight;", "My heart seeks peace and feasting with delight."]}, {"id": "D5.28.14", "lines": ["If you have any sage of subtle mind,", "The wisest clerk or scholar you can find,"]}, {"id": "D5.28.15", "lines": ["Let him read out this letter to the great,", "The honored ones who hold your highest state."]}, {"id": "D5.28.16", "lines": ["Prepare yourselves to meet my royal train,", "For none shall suffer who comes to the plain.”"]}, {"id": "D5.28.17", "lines": ["He bade a Roman scholar bear the sheet,", "To take it to Harum, its chiefs to greet."]}, {"id": "D5.28.18", "lines": ["He found fair women thronging every street,", "But not a single townsman did he meet."]}, {"id": "D5.28.19", "lines": ["Many women came out beyond the gate,", "Upon the plain, to see the Roman’s state."]}, {"id": "D5.28.20", "lines": ["The counselors assembled in a ring,", "To read the letter of the western king."]}, {"id": "D5.28.21", "lines": ["A city sage read through each written line,", "And understood the monarch’s whole design."]}, {"id": "D5.28.22", "lines": ["They sat and wrote an answer, firm and clear:", "“O Shah, may life and fortune crown you here!"]}, {"id": "D5.28.23", "lines": ["We sat your envoy down before our seat,", "And read your letter, every word complete."]}, {"id": "D5.28.24", "lines": ["You spoke of kings, of triumphs manifold,", "And ancient battles, which your words have told."]}, {"id": "D5.28.25", "lines": ["But if you march against our city walls,", "No earth shows where the tread of horses falls."]}, {"id": "D5.28.26", "lines": ["Our districts stretch beyond all measured bound,", "Ten thousand women in each ward are found."]}, {"id": "D5.28.27", "lines": ["All night in battle armor we remain;", "Our growing numbers bring us mounting strain."]}, {"id": "D5.28.28", "lines": ["Not one of us has ever been a bride;", "We are veiled maidens, with no man beside."]}, {"id": "D5.28.29", "lines": ["Whichever way you seek our native ground,", "A deep and sweeping water must be found."]}, {"id": "D5.28.30", "lines": ["When one among us chooses married life,", "We see no more the face of such a wife."]}, {"id": "D5.28.31", "lines": ["Across the deep sea she must make her way,", "In wind and snow, or on a pleasant day."]}, {"id": "D5.28.32", "lines": ["If she brings forth a daughter, fair and bright,", "Who loves perfume and color with delight,"]}, {"id": "D5.28.33", "lines": ["She keeps her dwelling in her mother’s home,", "And breathes the air beneath that distant dome."]}, {"id": "D5.28.34", "lines": ["But if the girl is proud, of warrior mold,", "They send her back to Harum’s native fold."]}, {"id": "D5.28.35", "lines": ["If she gives birth to sons, they must remain;", "We let no son above us women reign."]}, {"id": "D5.28.36", "lines": ["Ten thousand maidens watch the river’s side,", "As virgins, at their posts they there abide."]}, {"id": "D5.28.37", "lines": ["When one of us kills a man in the fight,", "A mighty man, we honor her for might."]}, {"id": "D5.28.38", "lines": ["A golden crown upon her head shall lie;", "Her throne we raise as high as Gemini."]}, {"id": "D5.28.39", "lines": ["And thirty thousand maidens wear the gold,", "With earrings that are splendid to behold."]}, {"id": "D5.28.40", "lines": ["For in her grasp a mighty warrior’s frame", "Was brought to dust, his pride reduced to shame."]}, {"id": "D5.28.41", "lines": ["You are a famous man of high renown;", "Bring not a sudden shadow on your crown."]}, {"id": "D5.28.42", "lines": ["Lest people say, ‘With women you engaged,", "Then fled the very battle you had waged.’"]}, {"id": "D5.28.43", "lines": ["Such shame would last as long as earth shall stay,", "And never lose its sting or fade away."]}, {"id": "D5.28.44", "lines": ["Why would you come with Rum’s famed men, and stand", "To view the borders of our ancient land?"]}, {"id": "D5.28.45", "lines": ["If truth and kindness travel at your side,", "Then joy and goodness shall with you abide."]}, {"id": "D5.28.46", "lines": ["We shall bring forth such warriors to your sight,", "That sun and moon grow dark beneath their might.”"]}, {"id": "D5.28.47", "lines": ["A woman envoy journeyed with the sheet,", "To lay the answer at Iskandar’s feet."]}, {"id": "D5.28.48", "lines": ["She wore a crown and robes of royal grace,", "With ten fair riders matching her in pace."]}, {"id": "D5.28.49", "lines": ["The Shah sent forward horsemen to the plain,", "To welcome her before his battle train."]}, {"id": "D5.28.50", "lines": ["She gave the scroll to Caesar for review,", "And spoke her nation’s message, clear and true."]}, {"id": "D5.28.51", "lines": ["Iskandar read the scroll, then gave command", "To one discreet and wise to speak as planned."]}, {"id": "D5.28.52", "lines": ["He sent this word: “May wisdom be the guide", "Of human thought, and at its heart abide."]}, {"id": "D5.28.53", "lines": ["No king remains beneath the turning sky", "Nor noble name that stands in honor high,"]}, {"id": "D5.28.54", "lines": ["Who does not bow before my sovereign hand,", "Though great and fortunate within his land."]}, {"id": "D5.28.55", "lines": ["Both camphor dust and black earth count the same;", "Feast, too, and battle have an equal claim."]}, {"id": "D5.28.56", "lines": ["I have not hastened here to wage a fight,", "Tabiras, elephants, to show my might."]}, {"id": "D5.28.57", "lines": ["My force is such, its horses’ countless feet", "Wear plain and mountain down beneath their beat."]}, {"id": "D5.28.58", "lines": ["I wish to see your city yet agree", "That you may choose instead to come to me."]}, {"id": "D5.28.59", "lines": ["When we have met, I shall depart this place,", "And lead my legions on at measured pace."]}, {"id": "D5.28.60", "lines": ["I shall see customs, splendor, grace, and force,", "Your bearing and your skill upon the horse."]}, {"id": "D5.28.61", "lines": ["In private I shall ask you women how", "You bear young, with no men among you now."]}, {"id": "D5.28.62", "lines": ["If death is here, from whom does increase flow?", "The answer to this thing I wish to know.”"]}, {"id": "D5.28.63", "lines": ["The envoy went and spoke the monarch’s will,", "And laid his hidden questions out with skill."]}, {"id": "D5.28.64", "lines": ["The nobles met in council to debate,", "And weighed his words concerning their estate."]}, {"id": "D5.28.65", "lines": ["“We chose two thousand women, wise and keen,", "Whose knowledge and whose wit are plainly seen."]}, {"id": "D5.28.66", "lines": ["Each hundred shall bring forth ten crowns of gold,", "All set with gems, delightful to behold."]}, {"id": "D5.28.67", "lines": ["Two hundred crowns in all shall deck our train,", "Fit for the Shah who holds the world in rein."]}, {"id": "D5.28.68", "lines": ["We weighed each crown with all its gems in place:", "Three ratls apiece, heaped up before our face."]}, {"id": "D5.28.69", "lines": ["We shall go forth to meet him on the road,", "When word arrives that he nears our abode."]}, {"id": "D5.28.70", "lines": ["For tidings of his wisdom reached our ear,", "And of his noble qualities, so clear.”"]}, {"id": "D5.28.71", "lines": ["The envoy brought the message to the king,", "With words where wisdom spoke in everything."]}, {"id": "D5.28.72", "lines": ["Iskandar led his legions on that day,", "Still wondering at the women and their way."]}, {"id": "D5.28.73", "lines": ["He traveled for two stages through the land,", "Until a sudden storm engulfed his band."]}, {"id": "D5.28.74", "lines": ["The heavy snowdrifts leveled every hill,", "And many footmen perished in the chill."]}, {"id": "D5.28.75", "lines": ["Two further stages through the cold he crossed,", "And neared the city Naft, still in the frost."]}, {"id": "D5.28.76", "lines": ["A cloud of black smoke rose above the road;", "As if on fire, the marching legions strode."]}, {"id": "D5.28.77", "lines": ["Their armor burned each noble rider’s frame;", "Beneath their horses’ shoes the ground took flame."]}, {"id": "D5.28.78", "lines": ["They reached a city, where before their sight", "The people stood as dark as deepest night."]}, {"id": "D5.28.79", "lines": ["Their lips hung low, their jutting jaws were set,", "Both black as pitch and dark as polished jet."]}, {"id": "D5.28.80", "lines": ["Their eyes were blood-red; from their mouths there came", "The leaping tongues of fierce and burning flame."]}, {"id": "D5.28.81", "lines": ["They brought their elephants and treasures bright,", "As gifts to set before the men of might."]}, {"id": "D5.28.82", "lines": ["They said: “The wind and snow that brought you woe", "Were sent by us to deal that harmful blow."]}, {"id": "D5.28.83", "lines": ["No traveler has ever passed this way;", "We have seen none but you and yours today.”"]}, {"id": "D5.28.84", "lines": ["The Shah then merrily crossed the open plain,", "And sought the women’s city with his train."]}, {"id": "D5.28.85", "lines": ["Two thousand women crossed the waters clear,", "With crowns and earrings bright as they drew near."]}, {"id": "D5.28.86", "lines": ["They reached a grove where streams ran clear and bright,", "A place of leafy joy and sheer delight."]}, {"id": "D5.28.87", "lines": ["They spread provisions out upon the green,", "With figured tapestries of royal sheen."]}, {"id": "D5.28.88", "lines": ["When Caesar reached the gates of their domain,", "They flocked to meet him from the open plain."]}, {"id": "D5.28.89", "lines": ["They brought him crowns, fine clothes, and jewels bright,", "With perfumes and rich colors to delight."]}, {"id": "D5.28.90", "lines": ["He took their gifts, and with a welcome sweet,", "In that glad hour, he gave to each a seat."]}, {"id": "D5.28.91", "lines": ["At dawn through Harum’s streets he made his way,", "And viewed the structures raised in proud array."]}, {"id": "D5.28.92", "lines": ["He questioned them, and every answer weighed,", "And till he understood them all, he stayed."]}, {"id": "D5.28.93", "lines": ["He viewed the sea, then onward led his quest,", "And marched his Roman legions to the west."]}, {"id": "D5.29.1", "lines": ["A mighty city rose before his sight,", "Its people great in stature and in might."]}, {"id": "D5.29.2", "lines": ["With red hair, yellow faces, all were fit", "For battle, with the strength to answer it."]}, {"id": "D5.29.3", "lines": ["They came before Iskandar at his call,", "And struck their heads like madmen, one and all."]}, {"id": "D5.29.4", "lines": ["He asked their chiefs: “What wonders have you here,", "To fill the passing traveler with cheer?”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.5", "lines": ["An elder said, “O Shah whom stars befriend,", "Who conquers cities to the world’s far end,"]}, {"id": "D5.29.6", "lines": ["Beyond the city lies a water deep;", "No share of it have men been seen to keep."]}, {"id": "D5.29.7", "lines": ["When to that place the shining sun draws near,", "Within its depths we see it disappear."]}, {"id": "D5.29.8", "lines": ["Beyond that water stretches endless gloom,", "A realm where sight itself can find no room."]}, {"id": "D5.29.9", "lines": ["So much I have heard of that realm of night,", "No telling ever brings its end in sight."]}, {"id": "D5.29.10", "lines": ["A learned worshiper of God once said", "A hidden spring lay in that darkness spread."]}, {"id": "D5.29.11", "lines": ["My wise informant named its secret flow", "The Fount of Life, where death can never go."]}, {"id": "D5.29.12", "lines": ["‘Who drinks its water never tastes of death;", "He lives, and death shall never still his breath."]}, {"id": "D5.29.13", "lines": ["A path links Paradise with waters pure;", "Wash there; your body’s sins shall not endure.’”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.14", "lines": ["Then Caesar asked: “How can our beasts proceed", "Through darkness on the road where we must lead?”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.15", "lines": ["The elder then replied: “To take that course, ", "You must not trust the tread of any horse;"]}, {"id": "D5.29.16", "lines": ["Choose four-year mares with nursing foals beside; ", "Leave foals behind to be their homeward guide."]}, {"id": "D5.29.17", "lines": ["For though your sight be lost in endless gloom, ", "The mothers track their young through mortal doom.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.18", "lines": ["The Shah chose thousands from that hardy breed, ", "Fresh four-year mares, well-fit for war and speed."]}, {"id": "D5.29.19", "lines": ["He gladly led his legions from that ground,", "And called the watchful chiefs to gather round."]}, {"id": "D5.29.20", "lines": ["He reached a boundless city on the plain,", "Whose distant walls seemed endless to his train."]}, {"id": "D5.29.21", "lines": ["Its groves and halls displayed a wondrous view,", "And every earthly luxury there grew."]}, {"id": "D5.29.22", "lines": ["There he dismounted, and at dawn next day,", "Went forward by himself upon the way."]}, {"id": "D5.29.23", "lines": ["He waited till the sun grew yellow-gold,", "And sank within those waters, blue and cold."]}, {"id": "D5.29.24", "lines": ["He saw the wonder shown by living God,", "As light withdrew from every field and sod."]}, {"id": "D5.29.25", "lines": ["Back in his camp, he pondered on the sight,", "And prayed to God throughout the quiet night."]}, {"id": "D5.29.26", "lines": ["The dehqan called that water Life by name,", "When telling of the gifts from God that came."]}, {"id": "D5.29.27", "lines": ["He brooded on the Fount of Life, then chose", "His hardiest men to seek what no man knows."]}, {"id": "D5.29.28", "lines": ["He packed supplies for more than forty days,", "And journeyed eagerly through hidden ways."]}, {"id": "D5.29.29", "lines": ["He camped his other legions in the town,", "And sought a guide of honor and renown."]}, {"id": "D5.29.30", "lines": ["Khizr, the counselor of that noble band,", "Its foremost chief, would guide his searching hand."]}, {"id": "D5.29.31", "lines": ["Iskandar gave his heart and soul in trust,", "And said: “Be diligent, as wise men must."]}, {"id": "D5.29.32", "lines": ["If we should gain that water, pure and fair,", "We shall spend long years in worship and prayer."]}, {"id": "D5.29.33", "lines": ["He will not die who tends his soul and, wise,", "Makes God the refuge where his safety lies."]}, {"id": "D5.29.34", "lines": ["Here are two charms, two mohreh-stones divine; ", "At sight of water, like the sun they shine."]}, {"id": "D5.29.35", "lines": ["Take one and lead us onward on the way;", "Guard soul and body where the shadows stay."]}, {"id": "D5.29.36", "lines": ["The other charm shall be my guiding spark,", "As with my legions I approach the dark."]}, {"id": "D5.29.37", "lines": ["We shall see what God, who made all we know,", "Conceals within the things that plainly show."]}, {"id": "D5.29.38", "lines": ["You lead; yet God remains my refuge still,", "And shows my path and purpose through His will.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.39", "lines": ["A cry rose from the desert, loud and clear:", "“God is the greatest!” rang upon the ear."]}, {"id": "D5.29.40", "lines": ["At every stage, when Khizr led his train,", "He left all kinds of food upon the plain."]}, {"id": "D5.29.41", "lines": ["For two full days and nights they kept their way; ", "No lips were moved to eat throughout that stay."]}, {"id": "D5.29.42", "lines": ["Upon the third, the roadway forked ahead;", "The Shah took one, Khizr chose the other instead."]}, {"id": "D5.29.43", "lines": ["The prophet’s jewel blazed with sudden light, ", "And guided him to waters gleaming bright."]}, {"id": "D5.29.44", "lines": ["He reached the Fount of Life; his mortal years", "Were raised to Saturn’s height among the spheres."]}, {"id": "D5.29.45", "lines": ["He washed his head and body in that flow,", "And sought but God to guard him here below."]}, {"id": "D5.29.46", "lines": ["He drank and rested, gave his praise to God,", "And turned back swiftly on the path he trod."]}, {"id": "D5.29.47", "lines": ["Iskandar reached the light and saw a height,", "A mountain vast and luminous and bright."]}, {"id": "D5.29.48", "lines": ["Tall columns rose of aloe-wood on high,", "Upon the rocky mountain, toward the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.29.49", "lines": ["On every column rose a mighty nest,", "Where sat a great green bird in lofty rest."]}, {"id": "D5.29.50", "lines": ["They spoke in Roman tongue with voices clear,", "And hailed the world’s great master drawing near."]}, {"id": "D5.29.51", "lines": ["He hurried toward them, wondering at the sight,", "And stood before those columns in the light."]}, {"id": "D5.29.52", "lines": ["A bird said: “You whose heart is set on toil,", "What do you seek upon this fleeting soil?"]}, {"id": "D5.29.53", "lines": ["Though you should raise your head to heaven’s height,", "The world will send you home in grief’s despite."]}, {"id": "D5.29.54", "lines": ["Have you seen adultery in your quest,", "And houses built of bricks where people rest?”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.55", "lines": ["He said: “Both things are present in our time:", "Adultery, and homes of brick and lime.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.56", "lines": ["The bird descended lower from its height;", "The man of God stood wondering at the sight."]}, {"id": "D5.29.57", "lines": ["It asked: “Do men seek music, and the throng", "Of drunken voices raised in merry song?”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.58", "lines": ["He said: “They love the harp and wine-cup well, ", "And under worldly pleasures choose to dwell.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.59", "lines": ["In grief the bird dropped down upon the ground, ", "Till on the column’s base its feet were found."]}, {"id": "D5.29.60", "lines": ["It asked: “Are knowledge and right conduct more", "Than crookedness and failings in your lore?”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.61", "lines": ["He answered: “One who seeks for knowledge true", "Wins honor; each assembly grants his due.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.62", "lines": ["The great bird flew back to the column then,", "And with its beak it cleaned its claws again."]}, {"id": "D5.29.63", "lines": ["It asked: “Do those who worship God on high", "Dwell in your land on mountains near the sky?”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.64", "lines": ["He said: “The pure in thought can find no place", "Except the mountain for their worship’s grace.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.65", "lines": ["The bird ascended to its lofty nest;", "The Shah was glad, with brightness in his breast."]}, {"id": "D5.29.66", "lines": ["Again, with claws it honed its beak, and bore", "No fear of resurrection’s dreadful roar."]}, {"id": "D5.29.67", "lines": ["Then it instructed him to climb the peak,", "Alone, on foot, without an escort, seek"]}, {"id": "D5.29.68", "lines": ["That sight which makes the merriest spirit weep,", "Upon the mountain’s summit, stark and steep."]}, {"id": "D5.29.69", "lines": ["He heard, and climbed the mountain on his own,", "To see what waited on its peak alone."]}, {"id": "D5.29.70", "lines": ["He saw Israfil with his head raised high,", "A karnay in his hand beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.29.71", "lines": ["His lips held breath; his eyes were brimming, wet;", "He waited for God’s word, not blowing yet."]}, {"id": "D5.29.72", "lines": ["When he saw Iskandar upon the height,", "He cried like thunder, terrible in might:"]}, {"id": "D5.29.73", "lines": ["“O slave of greed, cease toiling in this way;", "A cry shall reach your ears some future day."]}, {"id": "D5.29.74", "lines": ["Toil less for crown and treasure while you dwell;", "Prepare to leave and make your last farewell.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.75", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “My portion here below", "Is what the turns of fortune chose to show."]}, {"id": "D5.29.76", "lines": ["Without this movement through the world, I find", "Both seen and hidden things escape my mind.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.77", "lines": ["He then descended, wailing, spent, and worn,", "And praised the Giver from whom good is born."]}, {"id": "D5.29.78", "lines": ["He turned again toward that darkened way,", "With guides before him through the sunless gray."]}, {"id": "D5.29.79", "lines": ["When through the darkness marched his armed train,", "A cry rose from the mountain, black and plain:"]}, {"id": "D5.29.80", "lines": ["“Who takes a stone upon this mountain land", "Will rue the thing he carries in his hand."]}, {"id": "D5.29.81", "lines": ["And he who takes no stone will sorrow feel;", "The heart turns toward a cure its pain to heal.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.82", "lines": ["The legions heard the voice with minds intent;", "Each pondered deeply what the warning meant."]}, {"id": "D5.29.83", "lines": ["Should they take stones or leave them where they lay,", "And count no trouble yet to come their way?"]}, {"id": "D5.29.84", "lines": ["One said: “From sin this weary burden grows:", "To carry stones and reap regretful woes.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.85", "lines": ["Another said: “We ought to take a few;", "Perhaps we shall escape the pain they brew.”"]}, {"id": "D5.29.86", "lines": ["One gathered stones; another took no share;", "A third took little, loath the load to bear."]}, {"id": "D5.29.87", "lines": ["They left the Water’s region for the plain,", "And from the dark emerged with all their train."]}, {"id": "D5.29.88", "lines": ["They searched their sleeves and folds of clothing through;", "Their faults and shortages came into view."]}, {"id": "D5.29.89", "lines": ["One lap was full of rubies, bright and fair;", "Another held uncut gems, just as rare."]}, {"id": "D5.29.90", "lines": ["Who took but little now was sorrow-torn:", "He left green gems as though each were a thorn."]}, {"id": "D5.29.91", "lines": ["Still more regretful was the man whose hand", "Had left those precious jewels upon the land."]}, {"id": "D5.30.1", "lines": ["Two weeks he stayed; when rest had made him strong,", "He led his legions on, a mighty throng."]}, {"id": "D5.30.2", "lines": ["From Khavar toward Bakhtar went his train;", "He chose to travel every earthly lane."]}, {"id": "D5.30.3", "lines": ["And as he went, he saw a noble place,", "As though no wind or dust had touched its face."]}, {"id": "D5.30.4", "lines": ["On elephants, tabiras hailed his fame;", "Two mil the chiefs came out to greet his name."]}, {"id": "D5.30.5", "lines": ["The Shah received them with a gracious heart,", "And raised their station, set them high apart."]}, {"id": "D5.30.6", "lines": ["He asked: “What matchless marvels do you hold,", "Within these borders, wonderful and old?”"]}, {"id": "D5.30.7", "lines": ["They opened then their lips and told their care,", "And spoke of all the griefs they had to bear:"]}, {"id": "D5.30.8", "lines": ["“A grievous terror falls on us; we plead", "For your protection in our hour of need."]}, {"id": "D5.30.9", "lines": ["This mountain lifts its summit to the sky;", "Our hearts are torn with pain, and sore we sigh."]}, {"id": "D5.30.10", "lines": ["From Yajuj and Majuj our hearts are sore,", "As though our breasts could hold those hearts no more."]}, {"id": "D5.30.11", "lines": ["Whenever any band invades our street,", "They leave us only sorrow and defeat."]}, {"id": "D5.30.12", "lines": ["Their faces look like camels’, strange to view;", "Black tongues and blood-red eyes confront us too."]}, {"id": "D5.30.13", "lines": ["Dark-faced, with teeth like boars’ in grim array,", "Who dares approach them as they make their way?"]}, {"id": "D5.30.14", "lines": ["Their bodies, thick with indigo hair, appear", "Like elephants in breast and chest and ear."]}, {"id": "D5.30.15", "lines": ["They sleep upon one ear spread on the ground,", "And wrap the other over them around."]}, {"id": "D5.30.16", "lines": ["The mothers have a thousand children each;", "No one can count the multitudes they reach."]}, {"id": "D5.30.17", "lines": ["They gather like the beasts that roam the plain,", "Like herds of gurs they race across terrain."]}, {"id": "D5.30.18", "lines": ["In spring the clouds give forth a thundering roar,", "And all the green sea surges more and more."]}, {"id": "D5.30.19", "lines": ["A storm cloud heaves a monster from the deep; ", "With roaring winds across the sky they sweep."]}, {"id": "D5.30.20", "lines": ["It casts that mountain-fish upon the shore, ", "Where gathered myriads feast on it once more."]}, {"id": "D5.30.21", "lines": ["They feed each year upon that monstrous meat,", "And strengthen savage limbs with all they eat."]}, {"id": "D5.30.22", "lines": ["Then plants become the food on which they feed;", "From every side they gather what they need."]}, {"id": "D5.30.23", "lines": ["In winter, thin and wasted, they appear;", "Like doves their voices sound upon the ear."]}, {"id": "D5.30.24", "lines": ["In spring like wolves they come before your eyes,", "And mighty are the voices of their cries."]}, {"id": "D5.30.25", "lines": ["Now if the great Shah could devise a scheme,", "And from this grief our weary hearts redeem,"]}, {"id": "D5.30.26", "lines": ["He shall receive the praise of every tongue,", "And long remain on earth, with praises sung."]}, {"id": "D5.30.27", "lines": ["Show greatness, bring relief to those in need;", "For you too need God’s help in every deed.”"]}, {"id": "D5.30.28", "lines": ["Iskandar heard their tale in deep surprise,", "And pondered, sorrow darkening his eyes."]}, {"id": "D5.30.29", "lines": ["He said: “I shall provide the needed gold;", "Your city’s help and labor must uphold"]}, {"id": "D5.30.30", "lines": ["The work; with God, the Giver, as our stay,", "My plan shall close their passage through this way.”"]}, {"id": "D5.30.31", "lines": ["All cried: “May fortune’s ills be far from you,", "O Shah whose heart is generous and true."]}, {"id": "D5.30.32", "lines": ["We are the servants of your ruling voice,", "And lifelong service is our willing choice."]}, {"id": "D5.30.33", "lines": ["We shall bring all the things your plans require;", "No greater task than this could we desire.”"]}, {"id": "D5.30.34", "lines": ["Iskandar went to view the mountain height,", "And took with him his sages of insight."]}, {"id": "D5.30.35", "lines": ["He ordered: “Bring the smiths, and for their hands", "Great hammers, copper, brass, as work demands."]}, {"id": "D5.30.36", "lines": ["Bring gypsum, stone, and firewood, heap on heap,", "As much as we shall need, and more to keep.”"]}, {"id": "D5.30.37", "lines": ["They brought abundant stores at his request;", "The work stood ready, all its plans addressed."]}, {"id": "D5.30.38", "lines": ["The masons and the smiths from every land", "Assembled to fulfill the king’s command."]}, {"id": "D5.30.39", "lines": ["The experts came from lands both far and wide,", "And built two walls, one on each mountainside."]}, {"id": "D5.30.40", "lines": ["The height rose soaring skyward from its base;", "Almost a hundred rash broad, it filled the space."]}, {"id": "D5.30.41", "lines": ["One rash of charcoal, one of iron they laid,", "With copper strewn between the layers they made."]}, {"id": "D5.30.42", "lines": ["They poured the sulfur in among the store;", "Such was the art of kings of ancient lore."]}, {"id": "D5.30.43", "lines": ["Each substance formed a course, in ordered rows,", "Till from the earth to crest the layers rose."]}, {"id": "D5.30.44", "lines": ["They mixed much oil and naphtha, then they poured", "The mixture on the substances there stored."]}, {"id": "D5.30.45", "lines": ["They heaped great loads of charcoal on the height,", "Then, at his order, set the mass alight."]}, {"id": "D5.30.46", "lines": ["A hundred thousand smiths obeyed his will,", "And brought their bellows, working with their skill."]}, {"id": "D5.30.47", "lines": ["The roaring blast rose from the mountain’s peak;", "The stars before the fire’s fierce might grew weak."]}, {"id": "D5.30.48", "lines": ["So time went by amid that fiery glare,", "The bellows’ blast, the smiths’ relentless care."]}, {"id": "D5.30.49", "lines": ["The substances grew molten, flowing bright,", "And fused together in the fire’s fierce light."]}, {"id": "D5.30.50", "lines": ["Thus Yajuj and Majuj were held at bay,", "And nations breathed in safety from that day."]}, {"id": "D5.30.51", "lines": ["Through that famed barrier, Iskandar’s Wall,", "The world escaped oppression’s bitter thrall."]}, {"id": "D5.30.52", "lines": ["Five hundred rash rose up its mighty frame;", "Its breadth to nearly one full hundred came."]}, {"id": "D5.30.53", "lines": ["The nobles blessed the Shah with one accord:", "“May time and earth not lack you, noble lord.”"]}, {"id": "D5.30.54", "lines": ["They brought the many gifts those regions made,", "And down before the Shah their wealth was laid."]}, {"id": "D5.30.55", "lines": ["He took no gift, but left without delay;", "His deeds amazed the world from day to day."]}, {"id": "D5.31.1", "lines": ["He marched one month along the weary way;", "Both Shah and legions suffered day by day."]}, {"id": "D5.31.2", "lines": ["At length he reached a mountain high and grand,", "Where neither man nor beast possessed the land."]}, {"id": "D5.31.3", "lines": ["Its rocky peak, with lapis splendor, shone,", "Above the mountain, blue as azure stone."]}, {"id": "D5.31.4", "lines": ["A yellow-gemmed house crowned the mountain height,", "With crystal lamps throughout its chambers bright."]}, {"id": "D5.31.5", "lines": ["Within the house a spring of salt arose,", "Set in the center of that strange repose."]}, {"id": "D5.31.6", "lines": ["A single red gem shed a crimson glow,", "Its core as dark as feathers of a crow."]}, {"id": "D5.31.7", "lines": ["Its lamplight played upon the water bright,", "And made the whole house shine with sunlight’s might."]}, {"id": "D5.31.8", "lines": ["Beside the spring two golden seats were spread;", "Upon them lay a luckless figure, dead."]}, {"id": "D5.31.9", "lines": ["A silent corpse lay stretched upon the gold:", "A human body with a boar’s head, cold."]}, {"id": "D5.31.10", "lines": ["His couch was camphor, cool as winter’s night,", "Beneath a brocade mantle, rich and bright."]}, {"id": "D5.31.11", "lines": ["Whoever went to take a thing away,", "Or trod the ground on which that body lay,"]}, {"id": "D5.31.12", "lines": ["Would shake until his strength was overthrown,", "And die in trembling on that fatal stone."]}, {"id": "D5.31.13", "lines": ["A sudden cry rose from the salty deep: ", "“O soul of endless greed, no longer sweep"]}, {"id": "D5.31.14", "lines": ["Across the earth! Draw rein, your wandering cease; ", "The hour draws near that robs your crown of peace."]}, {"id": "D5.31.15", "lines": ["Your span of life is short; the end draws near;", "Your royal throne shall lack its monarch here.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.16", "lines": ["Iskandar quailed and wheeled his horse in dread,", "And came like smoke to camp, nor stayed, but sped."]}, {"id": "D5.31.17", "lines": ["He led his legions swiftly on the way,", "And called upon God’s name throughout the day."]}, {"id": "D5.31.18", "lines": ["He took the desert road from mountain ground,", "With grief and thoughts of life within him bound."]}, {"id": "D5.31.19", "lines": ["He rode in grief, his eyes with weeping red;", "His troops behind him, with his guide ahead."]}, {"id": "D5.31.20", "lines": ["At last, they reached a city’s welcome wall,", "Where human voices cheered them, one and all."]}, {"id": "D5.31.21", "lines": ["The land was like a garden green and bright,", "Its people’s hearts were filled with glad delight."]}, {"id": "D5.31.22", "lines": ["The worthy city chiefs came in array,", "And showered gold and gems upon his way."]}, {"id": "D5.31.23", "lines": ["They cried: “O Shah, how fortunate the hour", "That brings us here your banners and your power."]}, {"id": "D5.31.24", "lines": ["No army yet has ever reached our gate,", "Nor has a king’s name reached us in this state."]}, {"id": "D5.31.25", "lines": ["Our souls are yours; may you remain secure,", "With body healthy and with spirit pure.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.26", "lines": ["Iskandar’s heart grew glad at what they said,", "He rested from the march his troops had led."]}, {"id": "D5.31.27", "lines": ["He asked: “What wonder opens to our view,", "Within these borders where the world is new?”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.28", "lines": ["The guides replied: “O king of honest mind,", "A greater wonder you shall never find."]}, {"id": "D5.31.29", "lines": ["Two trunks grow upward from the selfsame ground,", "Whose matching branches speak with human sound."]}, {"id": "D5.31.30", "lines": ["One trunk is female and the other male;", "With hue and fragrance, each can tell its tale."]}, {"id": "D5.31.31", "lines": ["At night the fragrant female branches say", "Their words; the male speaks with the light of day.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.32", "lines": ["Iskandar went, with Roman riders paired", "With chiefs of that same land, who came and shared"]}, {"id": "D5.31.33", "lines": ["The sight. He asked: “When will its voice be heard?”", "The guide replied: “Attend the speaking word."]}, {"id": "D5.31.34", "lines": ["When nine divisions of the daylight end,", "The fortunate shall hear its voice ascend.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.35", "lines": ["The Shah inquired: “What further sights remain,", "If we pursue this road across the plain?”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.36", "lines": ["The guide replied: “No further path is known;", "This is the end of every earthly zone.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.37", "lines": ["Then they set forward through the heavy heat,", "With Romans riding where its branches meet."]}, {"id": "D5.31.38", "lines": ["The ground steamed in the heat along the way;", "The skins of savage beasts upon it lay."]}, {"id": "D5.31.39", "lines": ["He asked: “Whose skins are these that lie around?", "Who tore these beasts and spread them on the ground?”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.40", "lines": ["The guide replied: “The tree has servants here;", "They feed on beasts when need for food draws near.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.41", "lines": ["When sunbeams reached the center of the sky,", "A dreadful cry came echoing on high."]}, {"id": "D5.31.42", "lines": ["It echoed through the leaves with mournful tone,", "And chilled the monarch’s heart as cold as stone."]}, {"id": "D5.31.43", "lines": ["He asked the guide: “What does this tree declare?", "Its fearful accents tremble in the air.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.44", "lines": ["The guide replied: “Why does Iskandar stray", "Through all these lands and seek a further way?"]}, {"id": "D5.31.45", "lines": ["When fourteen years have marked his royal reign,", "He must depart his throne and great domain.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.46", "lines": ["Iskandar wept blood, overcome by woe;", "Till midnight came, no words from him would flow."]}, {"id": "D5.31.47", "lines": ["Then spoke the female branches through the shade,", "Again he sought his learned guide for aid."]}, {"id": "D5.31.48", "lines": ["“What does this other branch declare?” he said.", "The man disclosed its secret, filled with dread:"]}, {"id": "D5.31.49", "lines": ["“The female branch speaks of your greed for fame:", "Why wound your soul for earthly power and name?"]}, {"id": "D5.31.50", "lines": ["Your greed is roaming through the world’s wide lands,", "And hurting men, while kings die at your hands."]}, {"id": "D5.31.51", "lines": ["Your life is short; do not consume your days", "In darkness, pressed by troubles on your ways.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.52", "lines": ["The great king asked: “Inquire if I shall be", "In Rum when that grim day comes round to me."]}, {"id": "D5.31.53", "lines": ["Shall my dear mother see me yet alive,", "And lift my veil the day that I arrive?”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.54", "lines": ["The speaking tree replied: “Cut short your stay;", "Bind up your baggage; make your onward way."]}, {"id": "D5.31.55", "lines": ["Your mother, kin, and women veiled shall wait", "In Rum, but never see you at their gate."]}, {"id": "D5.31.56", "lines": ["Death soon shall find you in an alien land, ", "And rip the royal scepter from your hand."]}, {"id": "D5.31.57", "lines": ["Weary of you shall grow your star and crown; ", "In sorrow shall your fortune tumble down.”"]}, {"id": "D5.31.58", "lines": ["He left the tree, his restless heart distressed, ", "As though a bitter sword had pierced his breast."]}, {"id": "D5.31.59", "lines": ["When he reached camp, the city’s chiefs withdrew;", "Within the town they gathered tribute due."]}, {"id": "D5.31.60", "lines": ["They made their offerings ready in that place,", "Then hurried to the Shah with eager pace."]}, {"id": "D5.31.61", "lines": ["They brought a jowshan, huge, both long and wide,", "Bright indigo, vast as an elephant’s hide."]}, {"id": "D5.31.62", "lines": ["Two elephant tusks, five rash in length, they bore;", "To lift those burdens taxed their strength the more."]}, {"id": "D5.31.63", "lines": ["They brought fine jowshans, costly cloth to show,", "Rich brocade gleaming in its silken glow."]}, {"id": "D5.31.64", "lines": ["A hundred golden eggs were laid in line,", "Each filled with gold, a treasure rich and fine."]}, {"id": "D5.31.65", "lines": ["Each egg weighed sixty mann upon the scale,", "By diram weight, as measures told the tale."]}, {"id": "D5.31.66", "lines": ["A golden kargadan was brought to view,", "And flashed with gems of every brilliant hue."]}, {"id": "D5.31.67", "lines": ["He took their gifts, though sorrow pierced him through,", "And shed his tears of blood as he withdrew."]}, {"id": "D5.32.1", "lines": ["He led his legions into Chin, then chose", "A stage at which to halt and seek repose."]}, {"id": "D5.32.2", "lines": ["He ordered then a scribe to draft a scroll,", "From Iskandar, who held towns in control."]}, {"id": "D5.32.3", "lines": ["He bade the scribe use menace and appeal,", "Then fold the finished letter for its seal."]}, {"id": "D5.32.4", "lines": ["As envoy went the Shah; to share the ride,", "He chose a wise, free man to take his side."]}, {"id": "D5.32.5", "lines": ["With him in heart and word this man agreed,", "To say: “Do this,” or “Do not do that deed.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.6", "lines": ["He left his captain with the troops behind,", "And took five Romans, wise, of searching mind."]}, {"id": "D5.32.7", "lines": ["When tidings reached Faghfoor that envoys came,", "He sent a force to honor Caesar’s name."]}, {"id": "D5.32.8", "lines": ["Iskandar crossed in splendor through the plain,", "To meet the ruler of the eastern reign."]}, {"id": "D5.32.9", "lines": ["Iskandar reached the mighty court and saw", "Its chosen ranks, which filled his heart with awe."]}, {"id": "D5.32.10", "lines": ["He passed the vestibule to meet the king,", "While troubled thoughts within his heart took wing."]}, {"id": "D5.32.11", "lines": ["He hastened up and bowed before the throne,", "Then sat a long while in the hall of stone."]}, {"id": "D5.32.12", "lines": ["Faghfoor received him with a gracious face,", "And lodged the envoy in a splendid place."]}, {"id": "D5.32.13", "lines": ["When morning’s lamp arose above the height,", "They brought a mount with golden breast-gear bright."]}, {"id": "D5.32.14", "lines": ["They summoned then the envoy to draw near,", "To speak the message that the king should hear."]}, {"id": "D5.32.15", "lines": ["Iskandar spoke, then gave the scroll in hand,", "And told the words of Caesar’s full command:"]}, {"id": "D5.32.16", "lines": ["“From Rum’s great Shah, the lord of every realm,", "Whom kings acclaim, to him who holds the helm"]}, {"id": "D5.32.17", "lines": ["In Chin, Faghfoor.” The letter then began:", "“Praise to the World-Creator, Lord of man,"]}, {"id": "D5.32.18", "lines": ["From us, His servants, praise to Him who guides,", "Sustains, and makes good flourish on all sides."]}, {"id": "D5.32.19", "lines": ["To Chin this royal charge we hereby give:", "In flourishing abundance let it live."]}, {"id": "D5.32.20", "lines": ["Do not prepare to meet us in the fray;", "Through war, great Foor was brought to his last day."]}, {"id": "D5.32.21", "lines": ["So, Dara, once the monarch of the earth,", "And Faryan Tazi, chiefs of mighty worth."]}, {"id": "D5.32.22", "lines": ["From Khavar to Bakhtar, no lord or land", "Attempts to pass beyond our firm command."]}, {"id": "D5.32.23", "lines": ["The heavens cannot count my marching train,", "Nor sun nor Venus counts them on the plain."]}, {"id": "D5.32.24", "lines": ["If you defy the orders I have sent,", "Your self and realm shall suffer punishment."]}, {"id": "D5.32.25", "lines": ["Send tribute when you read this royal scroll;", "Do not seek evil’s harm to flesh and soul."]}, {"id": "D5.32.26", "lines": ["If you will come and stand before my face,", "I shall preserve your throne and royal place."]}, {"id": "D5.32.27", "lines": ["But if you will not stand before your lord,", "Then send such treasures as you can afford."]}, {"id": "D5.32.28", "lines": ["Send golden wares, the gems that Chin can yield,", "And horses with the swords that warriors wield."]}, {"id": "D5.32.29", "lines": ["Send clothing, curtains, and an ivory throne,", "Rich brocade, torques, and crowns from all you own."]}, {"id": "D5.32.30", "lines": ["Send all you find of these into my store,", "If you would keep my troubles from your door."]}, {"id": "D5.32.31", "lines": ["Turn back my legions from their onward way,", "Lest treasure, throne, and crown become their prey.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.32", "lines": ["The lord of Chin was angered by his claim,", "Then chose to hold his peace and curb the flame."]}, {"id": "D5.32.33", "lines": ["He smiled: “Your Shah has heaven for his guide;", "The sky itself stands firmly at his side."]}, {"id": "D5.32.34", "lines": ["Describe his face and stature, tell me true,", "His valor and his speech, as known to you.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.35", "lines": ["The envoy said: “No king can match his fame;", "No man on earth can bear so great a name."]}, {"id": "D5.32.36", "lines": ["In courage, bounty, giving, and in thought,", "He passes all that any mind has caught."]}, {"id": "D5.32.37", "lines": ["A cypress tall, an elephant in might;", "His bounty flows like the Nile, vast and bright."]}, {"id": "D5.32.38", "lines": ["His tongue is like a keen-edged blade of steel;", "His gentle words make eagles downward wheel.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.39", "lines": ["Faghfoor heard this and pondered what he knew;", "Within his heart another purpose grew."]}, {"id": "D5.32.40", "lines": ["He called for wine and ordered food prepared;", "A garden hall was dressed for what they shared."]}, {"id": "D5.32.41", "lines": ["They drank until night covered all the land,", "Till wine left all their senses past command."]}, {"id": "D5.32.42", "lines": ["The lord of Chin then spoke with courtesy:", "“May Jupiter your king’s companion be."]}, {"id": "D5.32.43", "lines": ["When light returns, we write our answer through,", "And make the day auspicious, meeting you.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.44", "lines": ["Half-drunk, Iskandar left the royal hall;", "A toranj in his hand, he passed them all."]}, {"id": "D5.32.45", "lines": ["When from the Lion’s sign the sun shone bright,", "The turning heavens overthrew the night."]}, {"id": "D5.32.46", "lines": ["Iskandar sought Faghfoor again, at peace;", "His heart from dark thoughts now had found release."]}, {"id": "D5.32.47", "lines": ["Faghfoor inquired: “Did sleep restore your cheer?", "Your face was flushed with wine when night drew near.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.48", "lines": ["He called a scribe, who brought the paper sheet,", "With musk and fragrant abir, rich and sweet."]}, {"id": "D5.32.49", "lines": ["He wrote a warm reply, and every line", "Made paper seem like Paradise divine."]}, {"id": "D5.32.50", "lines": ["He praised the Judge, who grants all skill and might,", "Yazdan of justice, ordering all right;"]}, {"id": "D5.32.51", "lines": ["Yazdan of learning, faith and self-control:", "“May God bless Rum’s great Shah in heart and soul."]}, {"id": "D5.32.52", "lines": ["Your courteous envoy came before my throne,", "And brought your letter, wise in word and tone."]}, {"id": "D5.32.53", "lines": ["I read your royal words and weighed them through,", "And with my chiefs discussed the words from you."]}, {"id": "D5.32.54", "lines": ["Of Dara, Darab’s son, and Faryan’s name,", "And Foor, in war and feast, the tidings came."]}, {"id": "D5.32.55", "lines": ["You overcame them all; you stood as guide,", "A shepherd with those kings, your flock, beside."]}, {"id": "D5.32.56", "lines": ["What God, Yazdan of sun and moon, decreed,", "Ascribe not to your strength or troops you lead."]}, {"id": "D5.32.57", "lines": ["When any ruler’s destined days shall end,", "At feast or battle will his death descend."]}, {"id": "D5.32.58", "lines": ["Their final day fell in your battle’s course;", "Time neither adds nor takes through mortal force."]}, {"id": "D5.32.59", "lines": ["Boast not of them, for you shall pass away;", "Though iron be your frame, death has its day."]}, {"id": "D5.32.60", "lines": ["Where now are Zahhak, Jamshid, Fereydoon?", "They rose like wind, and passed like breath as soon."]}, {"id": "D5.32.61", "lines": ["I neither fear you nor will fight with you;", "Nor swell with pride as you so plainly do."]}, {"id": "D5.32.62", "lines": ["For shedding blood is not our chosen road;", "Within our faith no evil finds abode."]}, {"id": "D5.32.63", "lines": ["To summon me would bring you shame thereby;", "I worship God, not kings beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.32.64", "lines": ["I shall send more than you have held in thought;", "No blame for scanty giving shall be brought.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.65", "lines": ["Iskandar’s face grew red with burning shame;", "An arrow to his heart, those words became."]}, {"id": "D5.32.66", "lines": ["“No man shall see me travel in disguise", "Again,” he thought, “concealed from knowing eyes.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.67", "lines": ["He left the hall and sought his lodging then,", "And girded for the road to leave again."]}, {"id": "D5.32.68", "lines": ["Faghfoor unlocked his treasury of gold,", "Nor grieved to give the riches of his hold."]}, {"id": "D5.32.69", "lines": ["He ordered fifty crowns, and thrones of white", "Ivory, ten, with jewels gleaming bright."]}, {"id": "D5.32.70", "lines": ["A thousand camels bore bright silver packs", "And golden wares, tied tight upon their backs."]}, {"id": "D5.32.71", "lines": ["Chin brocade, khazz, silk, camphor, abir lay", "With ambergris and aloes packed away."]}, {"id": "D5.32.72", "lines": ["A further thousand bore this fragrant freight;", "Who holds wealth lightly finds an easier state."]}, {"id": "D5.32.73", "lines": ["The musk pods, kamil, bur were gathered in,", "With pelts of squirrel, ermine, sable skin."]}, {"id": "D5.32.74", "lines": ["Of each two thousand, brought at his command,", "The wise treasurer packed with careful hand."]}, {"id": "D5.32.75", "lines": ["A hundred saddles shone with silver bright;", "Gold on another fifty caught the light."]}, {"id": "D5.32.76", "lines": ["Three hundred camels, red of hair and tall,", "Brought rarities of Chin before them all."]}, {"id": "D5.32.77", "lines": ["Faghfoor chose out an elder, wise and great,", "Whose speech was sweet, a man of steady weight."]}, {"id": "D5.32.78", "lines": ["He bade him take his greeting to the king,", "And bear the message that his words would bring."]}, {"id": "D5.32.79", "lines": ["“Let him remain a while near Chin,” he said,", "“That praise from all our chiefs may crown his head.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.80", "lines": ["The envoy set forth with Iskandar’s train;", "Who could suspect the Shah rode on the plain?"]}, {"id": "D5.32.81", "lines": ["The boatman saw Iskandar, sprang upright,", "And swiftly raised the sail to speed their flight."]}, {"id": "D5.32.82", "lines": ["The minister came with the troops to greet", "His Shah, who told the story of his feat."]}, {"id": "D5.32.83", "lines": ["His legions raised their blessings all around,", "And bowed their heads before him to the ground."]}, {"id": "D5.32.84", "lines": ["The man of Chin now knew the king he faced,", "And came on foot, with cries, as on he paced."]}, {"id": "D5.32.85", "lines": ["“Make no excuse,” the Shah said, “for your fear;", "But let Faghfoor know nothing of this here.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.86", "lines": ["He rested through the night; at morning’s light", "He sat upon the throne in royal might."]}, {"id": "D5.32.87", "lines": ["He gave the envoy gifts, and for his guide", "Invoked the spirit of Christ at his side."]}, {"id": "D5.32.88", "lines": ["He said: “Tell great Faghfoor of Chin that he", "Has gained a place of honor here with me."]}, {"id": "D5.32.89", "lines": ["If he remains, all Chin is his domain;", "Or he may journey elsewhere, free of chain."]}, {"id": "D5.32.90", "lines": ["I shall remain awhile where now I stand;", "One cannot hurry with so great a band.”"]}, {"id": "D5.32.91", "lines": ["The envoy hastened like the wind away,", "And told Faghfoor what Caesar bade him say."]}, {"id": "D5.33.1", "lines": ["A month the Shah remained, till rest had healed", "His weary legions; then he took the field."]}, {"id": "D5.33.2", "lines": ["They left the green sea for the desert long,", "And traveled onward with their army strong."]}, {"id": "D5.33.3", "lines": ["Stage after stage the desert road they rode,", "Till Chaghavan’s strong walls before them showed."]}, {"id": "D5.33.4", "lines": ["It was a prosperous city, walled all round,", "Where men of fame and wisdom could be found."]}, {"id": "D5.33.5", "lines": ["They came before the Shah in bright array,", "And scattered gifts before him on the way."]}, {"id": "D5.33.6", "lines": ["Iskandar asked them, eager to be told:", "“What wonders do these ancient borders hold?”"]}, {"id": "D5.33.7", "lines": ["“We know of none, O king,” one man replied,", "“That merit notice in this countryside."]}, {"id": "D5.33.8", "lines": ["You find here only hardship, want, and pain,", "And empty hands are all that you can gain.”"]}, {"id": "D5.33.9", "lines": ["Upon these words the Shah resumed his course,", "And led toward Hind his vast and seasoned force."]}, {"id": "D5.33.10", "lines": ["The Sindian throng prepared to meet his might,", "While troops from Hind arrived to join the fight."]}, {"id": "D5.33.11", "lines": ["All those whose hearts through Foor were sore with pain", "Prepared for bloodshed on the battle plain."]}, {"id": "D5.33.12", "lines": ["They brought their elephants; with martial cry, ", "The Indian gongs and karnays shook the sky."]}, {"id": "D5.33.13", "lines": ["The lord of Sind, proud Bandavar by name, ", "Rode forth to war, a warrior known to fame."]}, {"id": "D5.33.14", "lines": ["The armies clashed and shook the very ground,", "While mountains of the dead were piled around."]}, {"id": "D5.33.15", "lines": ["By night no Sindian held the field of fight;", "Iskandar followed hard upon their flight."]}, {"id": "D5.33.16", "lines": ["Full eighty-five great elephants he gained,", "With golden crowns, and swords, and wealth retained."]}, {"id": "D5.33.17", "lines": ["The women, children, and the aged men", "Came weeping to the Shah and pleaded then:"]}, {"id": "D5.33.18", "lines": ["“O mighty king, do not lay waste our land;", "Turn back from evil; stay your mighty hand."]}, {"id": "D5.33.19", "lines": ["Remember, kings must face the day they die;", "Blessed those who let their lives pass blameless by.”"]}, {"id": "D5.33.20", "lines": ["He showed no mercy to their stricken race,", "Nor turned toward those in pain to show his face."]}, {"id": "D5.33.21", "lines": ["They took full many captives in their hold,", "Women and little children, and the old."]}, {"id": "D5.33.22", "lines": ["By way of Bost he marched to Nimruz then,", "And cleared the world of foes before his men."]}, {"id": "D5.33.23", "lines": ["From there he led his troops to Kerman’s land,", "With men of noble name within his band."]}, {"id": "D5.33.24", "lines": ["The king of Kerman, hearing this report,", "Came out to meet him with his noble court."]}, {"id": "D5.33.25", "lines": ["He chose the finest gifts his realm could yield,", "Rich in their cost and beauty when revealed."]}, {"id": "D5.33.26", "lines": ["Ten camel-loads of patterned cloth he bore,", "And five of gold dinars from Yemen’s store."]}, {"id": "D5.33.27", "lines": ["Ten more bore silver coins, a rich display;", "Where money is, the heart puts grief away."]}, {"id": "D5.33.28", "lines": ["A thousand baskets, saffron at their core,", "With rich brocades and countless garments more."]}, {"id": "D5.33.29", "lines": ["A cup of green gemstone was brought to light,", "With eighty-five unpierced pearls, pure and bright."]}, {"id": "D5.33.30", "lines": ["He brought a cup of lapis, blue and fine,", "With sixty yellow gems within to shine."]}, {"id": "D5.33.31", "lines": ["Red gems adorned it; then, with blessings said,", "He gave his servants these to bear ahead."]}, {"id": "D5.33.32", "lines": ["They reached the camp where Shah Iskandar stayed,", "And all the treasures at his feet were laid."]}, {"id": "D5.33.33", "lines": ["Iskandar welcomed Kerman’s king that day,", "And seated him beside his throne to stay."]}, {"id": "D5.33.34", "lines": ["The king of Kerman blessed him: “May your days", "Be crowned with victory and your nobles’ praise."]}, {"id": "D5.33.35", "lines": ["Remain with me two months, and be my guest,", "And with your legions from the journey rest.”"]}, {"id": "D5.33.36", "lines": ["Iskandar blessed him: “May your constant guide", "Be wisdom, walking always at your side.”"]}, {"id": "D5.33.37", "lines": ["At dawn the king of Kerman rode away,", "The world resounded with his troops’ array."]}, {"id": "D5.34.1", "lines": ["Iskandar led his legions on their way", "Toward Babil; dust concealed the world that day."]}, {"id": "D5.34.2", "lines": ["They marched a month and found no place to rest,", "Until a towering mountain barred their quest."]}, {"id": "D5.34.3", "lines": ["Its summit rose beyond the reach of sight,", "Lost to the eye upon that soaring height."]}, {"id": "D5.34.4", "lines": ["A dark cloud crowned the summit, far and high,", "As though near Saturn in the turning sky."]}, {"id": "D5.34.5", "lines": ["The army halted, finding not a way;", "The Shah stood with his legions in dismay."]}, {"id": "D5.34.6", "lines": ["They crossed the granite heights in toil and strain,", "A marvel past the keenest mind’s domain."]}, {"id": "D5.34.7", "lines": ["When all grew weary of the mountain’s side,", "Beyond it lay a sea, both deep and wide."]}, {"id": "D5.34.8", "lines": ["The sight of sea and plain made spirits soar;", "They called upon the Maker toward the shore."]}, {"id": "D5.34.9", "lines": ["The land was filled with game in every field;", "Their only food was what the hunt would yield."]}, {"id": "D5.34.10", "lines": ["A wild man came, all clothed in matted hair,", "With elephantine ears spread through the air."]}, {"id": "D5.34.11", "lines": ["His skin beneath the hair was indigo,", "And all the soldiers stared from head to toe."]}, {"id": "D5.34.12", "lines": ["The chiefs, amazed, took hold of him to bring", "Him by sheer force before their mighty king."]}, {"id": "D5.34.13", "lines": ["Iskandar watched him with a keen surprise,", "And called on God at what had met his eyes."]}, {"id": "D5.34.14", "lines": ["“What sort of man are you? What is your name?", "What do you seek at sea? Declare your aim.”"]}, {"id": "D5.34.15", "lines": ["He said: “My parents named me at my birth:", "Goosh-bistar is the name I bear on earth.”"]}, {"id": "D5.34.16", "lines": ["The Shah then asked: “What lies amid the sea,", "Where sunrise shows its light? Explain to me.”"]}, {"id": "D5.34.17", "lines": ["He answered: “May you live, O king of fame,", "And may the world forever know your name."]}, {"id": "D5.34.18", "lines": ["A city stands there, Paradise in worth,", "As though its very substance were not earth."]}, {"id": "D5.34.19", "lines": ["In every house and hall, the coverings shown", "Are fashioned from the substance of pure bone."]}, {"id": "D5.34.20", "lines": ["And brighter than the sun, upon the wall,", "Afrasiab’s great battle decks the hall."]}, {"id": "D5.34.21", "lines": ["And Kay Khosrow, the warrior, is portrayed,", "His greatness, valor, firm resolve displayed."]}, {"id": "D5.34.22", "lines": ["These things are painted clearly on the bone;", "No dust or dirt within the town is known."]}, {"id": "D5.34.23", "lines": ["The people live on fish and nothing more;", "No other food sustains them on that shore."]}, {"id": "D5.34.24", "lines": ["If you command, I shall go on my own;", "Without your troops I shall reach it alone.”"]}, {"id": "D5.34.25", "lines": ["“Go,” said Iskandar, “bring someone to show", "What further wonders we have yet to know.”"]}, {"id": "D5.34.26", "lines": ["Goosh-bistar left at once, without delay,", "And brought the city’s people on their way."]}, {"id": "D5.34.27", "lines": ["Across the water eighty elders went,", "All wise in counsel and of grave intent."]}, {"id": "D5.34.28", "lines": ["Their clothes were khazz and silk, as has been told;", "Among their number stood both young and old."]}, {"id": "D5.34.29", "lines": ["Each elder known for honor bore a bright", "Gold cup of pearls to greet the monarch’s sight."]}, {"id": "D5.34.30", "lines": ["The young bore crowns, each carried in the hand;", "Before the Shah, heads bowed, they came to stand."]}, {"id": "D5.34.31", "lines": ["They bowed before the king with deep respect,", "And spoke at length, their manner circumspect."]}, {"id": "D5.34.32", "lines": ["“Kay Khosrow’s treasures lie within our care, ", "And none but such a Shah should be their heir.”"]}, {"id": "D5.34.33", "lines": ["Iskandar hastened then across the tide, ", "To view the city’s marvels far and wide."]}, {"id": "D5.34.34", "lines": ["He entered then the house of hidden gold, ", "And saw the wealth amassed in days of old."]}, {"id": "D5.34.35", "lines": ["The hoard was full of thrones and crowns of light, ", "With necklaces that glimmered in the night."]}, {"id": "D5.34.36", "lines": ["No man could count the value of the prize; ", "Its wealth confounded even all the wise."]}, {"id": "D5.34.37", "lines": ["The Shah took all the treasure and rode away, ", "To reach his camp before the end of day."]}, {"id": "D5.34.38", "lines": ["He stayed that night while guards secured the gold, ", "And watched the treasure through the midnight cold."]}, {"id": "D5.34.39", "lines": ["But when the cock announced the break of day, ", "The beating koust called all to march away."]}, {"id": "D5.34.40", "lines": ["The sound of kousts rang loudly at the gate, ", "As he prepared to march and meet his fate."]}, {"id": "D5.35.1", "lines": ["To Babil then Iskandar led his force;", "The earth lay hidden underneath its course."]}, {"id": "D5.35.2", "lines": ["He knew his life was ebbing, nearly past,", "And darkness on his day was falling fast."]}, {"id": "D5.35.3", "lines": ["He thought, “No royal scion shall remain", "To lead an army over Rum’s domain."]}, {"id": "D5.35.4", "lines": ["For such a prince might raise the battle sign,", "And trample that rich realm, that land of mine.”"]}, {"id": "D5.35.5", "lines": ["He wrote Arastatilis of his will,", "And laid before the sage his purpose ill:"]}, {"id": "D5.35.6", "lines": ["To put the heirs of Iran to the sword, ", "And slay each prince of Kayanian accord,"]}, {"id": "D5.35.7", "lines": ["Lest one arise to seek the royal seat, ", "And bring his native Rum to swift defeat."]}, {"id": "D5.35.8", "lines": ["When they conveyed the letter to the sage,", "The sage grew fearful, reading through the page."]}, {"id": "D5.35.9", "lines": ["He answered quickly, while his lashes shed", "Such tears they seemed the pen with which he said:"]}, {"id": "D5.35.10", "lines": ["“Your royal letter reached me,” said the sage; ", " “Stay now your hand, and turn from wrathful rage."]}, {"id": "D5.35.11", "lines": ["Abandon this dark purpose while you may,", "And give the poor your gifts without delay."]}, {"id": "D5.35.12", "lines": ["Commit yourself to God; restrain your hand,", "And sow good seed wherever you command."]}, {"id": "D5.35.13", "lines": ["All men are born to meet the final breath;", "No strength or counsel gives escape from death."]}, {"id": "D5.35.14", "lines": ["No king has borne his kingship to the tomb;", "He leaves his crown for others to assume."]}, {"id": "D5.35.15", "lines": ["Shed not the nobles’ blood along your way,", "Lest you be cursed until the Judgment Day."]}, {"id": "D5.35.16", "lines": ["If Iran has no army to defend", "Its soil, no king on whom its chiefs depend,"]}, {"id": "D5.35.17", "lines": ["From Turkistan and Hind their ranks will flow,", "From Saklab and from Chin, a countless foe."]}, {"id": "D5.35.18", "lines": ["Who takes Iran may turn his force on Rum;", "What wonder if revenge your home consume?"]}, {"id": "D5.35.19", "lines": ["Let not one breath bring harm upon the line", "Of those descended from the Kayanian sign."]}, {"id": "D5.35.20", "lines": ["Summon the nobles, men of freeborn name,", "With gifts and feast and counsel as your aim."]}, {"id": "D5.35.21", "lines": ["Assign each chief a province to control,", "And have their names recorded on a roll."]}, {"id": "D5.35.22", "lines": ["Record those nobles, freeborn men of worth,", "Through whom you freely gained the whole wide earth."]}, {"id": "D5.35.23", "lines": ["Let none command another in your stead,", "And raise no single Shah above their head."]}, {"id": "D5.35.24", "lines": ["Make Kayanian princes shields for Rum,", "So no invading army brings your doom.”"]}, {"id": "D5.35.25", "lines": ["When this reply reached great Iskandar’s hand,", "He cast aside the slaughter he had planned."]}, {"id": "D5.35.26", "lines": ["He summoned nobles, freeborn men of worth,", "Who showed humanity upon the earth."]}, {"id": "D5.35.27", "lines": ["He ranked them all according to degree,", "And seated each where it was fit to be."]}, {"id": "D5.35.28", "lines": ["He wrote a covenant that none should claim", "The least increase to serve his private aim."]}, {"id": "D5.35.29", "lines": ["Each ruled the province granted in his name;", "As Tribal Kings, they won their lasting fame."]}, {"id": "D5.35.30", "lines": ["That night Iskandar came to Babil’s gate;", "The chiefs rejoiced to see him in his state."]}, {"id": "D5.35.31", "lines": ["A woman bore a child so strange in frame,", "That all who saw it wondered at the same."]}, {"id": "D5.35.32", "lines": ["A lion’s head, hooved feet, an ox’s tail;", "Its human chest and shoulders made them quail."]}, {"id": "D5.35.33", "lines": ["It died the instant into life it came.", "May no new birth prolong that mother’s name."]}, {"id": "D5.35.34", "lines": ["They bore it swiftly to the world’s great king.", "He stared in wonder at that startling thing."]}, {"id": "D5.35.35", "lines": ["He took it as an omen, dark and dread,", "And said: “Let earth conceal this child, now dead.”"]}, {"id": "D5.35.36", "lines": ["He called the readers of the stars to speak,", "And asked what sign lay in that creature bleak."]}, {"id": "D5.35.37", "lines": ["The star-reader grew grieved at what he knew,", "And hid the meaning from the king’s own view."]}, {"id": "D5.35.38", "lines": ["The Shah warned: “If you hide truth from me,", "I shall strike off your heads immediately."]}, {"id": "D5.35.39", "lines": ["No cloth shall serve as shroud when you are slain;", "The lions’ jaws shall hide what may remain.”"]}, {"id": "D5.35.40", "lines": ["The star-reader, when anger seized the king,", "Replied: “Renowned lord, hear the news I bring."]}, {"id": "D5.35.41", "lines": ["You came to birth beneath the Lion’s light;", "The Mobadan and chiefs knew this was right."]}, {"id": "D5.35.42", "lines": ["The lion’s head upon this lifeless birth", "Foretells your empire’s head will bow to earth."]}, {"id": "D5.35.43", "lines": ["The world shall rage in turmoil, till it ends,", "And then another to the throne ascends.”"]}, {"id": "D5.35.44", "lines": ["Each star-reader before him spoke the same,", "And pointed to this sign to prove the claim."]}, {"id": "D5.35.45", "lines": ["Iskandar heard, and grief consumed his mind;", "His powers of thought and judgment both declined."]}, {"id": "D5.35.46", "lines": ["He said, “Death has no cure; I fear no call;", "My span can neither rise nor shrink at all.”"]}, {"id": "D5.35.47", "lines": ["That very day in Babil he fell ill,", "And knew that grievous harm had worked its will."]}, {"id": "D5.35.48", "lines": ["He called a veteran scribe, a man of art,", "And told him all that lay within his heart."]}, {"id": "D5.36.1", "lines": ["He bade them write his mother, to reveal", "That news of death no man could long conceal."]}, {"id": "D5.36.2", "lines": ["“In this wide world I took my destined span;", "No time can add or take from life’s fixed plan."]}, {"id": "D5.36.3", "lines": ["Do not lament or grieve upon my death,", "For every life must yield its final breath."]}, {"id": "D5.36.4", "lines": ["The base and royal-born must face the grave;", "No craft can shield the monarch or the slave."]}, {"id": "D5.36.5", "lines": ["I charge the Roman chiefs, when home they ride,", "To take your judgment always as their guide."]}, {"id": "D5.36.6", "lines": ["In all their deeds they shall obey your hand,", "And hold their pledge to you throughout the land."]}, {"id": "D5.36.7", "lines": ["Those chiefs of Iran who could threaten Rum,", "And bring the Roman homeland to its doom,"]}, {"id": "D5.36.8", "lines": ["I gave each lord a province for his own,", "That he might rule its kingdom from a throne."]}, {"id": "D5.36.9", "lines": ["He need not cast his eyes on Rum as prey;", "Our realm can rest with all such threats away."]}, {"id": "D5.36.10", "lines": ["A hundred thousand dinars, year by year,", "Give working folk from all my gold held here."]}, {"id": "D5.36.11", "lines": ["In Mesr, bury me with faithful care,", "And heed the final wishes I declare."]}, {"id": "D5.36.12", "lines": ["If Roshanak should bear to me a son,", "Then let my royal lineage through him run."]}, {"id": "D5.36.13", "lines": ["Let Rum give no one else the royal name,", "Through him let Rum renew its royal fame."]}, {"id": "D5.36.14", "lines": ["But if a daughter should be born instead,", "Then let her to Arastatilis’ son be wed."]}, {"id": "D5.36.15", "lines": ["Count him your child, and not a stranger’s line, ", "That through his house my memory may shine."]}, {"id": "D5.36.16", "lines": ["Send Kayd’s own daughter safely on her way,", "Back to her honored father; no delay."]}, {"id": "D5.36.17", "lines": ["With bracelets, slaves, attendants for the ride,", "Prepare a litter; send them at her side."]}, {"id": "D5.36.18", "lines": ["Return her crown, her gems, her silver store,", "And gold her father sent with her before."]}, {"id": "D5.36.19", "lines": ["And when she gives consent to leave this land,", "Send her to Hind with all these goods in hand."]}, {"id": "D5.36.20", "lines": ["I have arranged all matters for my part,", "And helplessly resigned to death my heart."]}, {"id": "D5.36.21", "lines": ["First fashion me a coffin made of gold,", "With ambergris perfume each shrouding fold."]}, {"id": "D5.36.22", "lines": ["Of Chin’s gold-woven cloth, for me prepare", "A fitting shroud; let none neglect my care."]}, {"id": "D5.36.23", "lines": ["With pitch seal up the gold; assemble here", "The musk and camphor and the sweet abir."]}, {"id": "D5.36.24", "lines": ["First pour the honey in and let there be", "Above it Chin brocade to cover me."]}, {"id": "D5.36.25", "lines": ["Then lay my body in its resting place;", "My speech is ended when you veil my face."]}, {"id": "D5.36.26", "lines": ["O noble mother, hold my counsel fast,", "And keep it while your mortal life shall last."]}, {"id": "D5.36.27", "lines": ["The wealth I brought from Hind and Chin, Iran,", "From Makran and the reaches of Turan,"]}, {"id": "D5.36.28", "lines": ["Keep what you need but give the rest away;", "Distribute what exceeds your need today."]}, {"id": "D5.36.29", "lines": ["My loving mother, watch your spirit well;", "Let wakefulness and light within you dwell."]}, {"id": "D5.36.30", "lines": ["Do not exhaust yourself with endless care;", "No one remains forever breathing air."]}, {"id": "D5.36.31", "lines": ["My soul shall see your soul; let doubt depart,", "When time draws close and presses on the heart."]}, {"id": "D5.36.32", "lines": ["Patience is nobler than affection’s call;", "The lesser soul lets lightness make it fall."]}, {"id": "D5.36.33", "lines": ["For months and years you loved my mortal frame;", "Now ask of God my pure soul, in His name."]}, {"id": "D5.36.34", "lines": ["Through this request, lend aid to me in need,", "That help may reach me as with God you plead."]}, {"id": "D5.36.35", "lines": ["Look all around the earth and you will see:", "Who has a soul from wounds of death left free?"]}, {"id": "D5.36.36", "lines": ["May radiant light within your spirit stay,", "And may good fortune bless your every day.”"]}, {"id": "D5.36.37", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, then without delay,", "Sent mounted couriers speeding on their way."]}, {"id": "D5.36.38", "lines": ["From Babil on to Rum the tidings sped:", "The royal glory darkened round his head."]}, {"id": "D5.36.39", "lines": ["The legions heard his sickness brought to light;", "The world grew dark before each noble’s sight."]}, {"id": "D5.36.40", "lines": ["They turned toward the throne, and far and high", "The world was filled with clamor and outcry."]}, {"id": "D5.37.1", "lines": ["When Iskandar perceived the army’s dread,", "And felt death’s shadow closing round his head,"]}, {"id": "D5.37.2", "lines": ["He bade them take his throne from out the hall,", "Into the open plain before them all."]}, {"id": "D5.37.3", "lines": ["The soldiers wept to see his pallid face,", "As sorrow filled the wide and open space."]}, {"id": "D5.37.4", "lines": ["They seethed as though a fire beneath them burned,", "And all the plain to cries of anguish turned."]}, {"id": "D5.37.5", "lines": ["All cried, “What grief has fallen on our state!", "The Romans lose their king to bitter fate."]}, {"id": "D5.37.6", "lines": ["Now comes the evil turn of fortune’s hand;", "From this day ruin threatens Rum’s whole land."]}, {"id": "D5.37.7", "lines": ["Our foes have gained the answer to their prayers;", "The goal they strove to reach is wholly theirs."]}, {"id": "D5.37.8", "lines": ["The world has turned to bitterness and pain;", "In hall and home our mourning shall remain.”"]}, {"id": "D5.37.9", "lines": ["Then Caesar spoke in accents soft and clear:", "“Through life, hold judgment and restraint most dear."]}, {"id": "D5.37.10", "lines": ["If soul and body both would prosper well,", "Observe the final counsel that I tell."]}, {"id": "D5.37.11", "lines": ["The doom that strikes me waits for you, for all; ", "On every head the hand of fate must fall.”"]}, {"id": "D5.37.12", "lines": ["He spoke these words, then drew his final breath,", "And he who shattered armies sank in death."]}, {"id": "D5.37.13", "lines": ["The legions’ cries rang out, so sharp and clear;", "Their uproar seemed to rend the listening ear."]}, {"id": "D5.37.14", "lines": ["They strewed the dust upon their heads in pain,", "As tears of heart’s blood fell upon the plain."]}, {"id": "D5.37.15", "lines": ["A thousand horses had their tails cut short,", "While flames devoured the dwellings of the court."]}, {"id": "D5.37.16", "lines": ["It looked as though the earth itself could mourn,", "With saddles backward on the horses borne."]}, {"id": "D5.37.17", "lines": ["They bore the golden bier across the plain;", "Their cries rose past the heavens in one strain."]}, {"id": "D5.37.18", "lines": ["With rosewater an osqof washed the dead,", "And purest camphor over him was spread."]}, {"id": "D5.37.19", "lines": ["Gold-woven cloth became his royal shroud,", "While all the grieving army wept aloud."]}, {"id": "D5.37.20", "lines": ["Beneath the Chin brocade they laid him deep", "In honey to his feet, for his last sleep."]}, {"id": "D5.37.21", "lines": ["They sealed the coffin firmly; passed away", "That valiant tree whose shade had blessed their day."]}, {"id": "D5.37.22", "lines": ["No one remains within this passing hall;", "Why cling to crown or treasure doomed to fall?"]}, {"id": "D5.37.23", "lines": ["When from the plain they raised the coffin high,", "They wrung their hands and heaved a grief-struck sigh."]}, {"id": "D5.37.24", "lines": ["Two voices rose, and each opposed its peer:", "The Roman and the Iranian, round the bier."]}, {"id": "D5.37.25", "lines": ["The men of Iran said, “His bones should rest", "Among the kings our ancient earth has blessed."]}, {"id": "D5.37.26", "lines": ["Why carry him from shore to distant shore?", "Why take him from the kings who ruled before?”"]}, {"id": "D5.37.27", "lines": ["A Roman counselor replied, “Not here;", "This is no fitting soil to hold his bier."]}, {"id": "D5.37.28", "lines": ["Hear what I say: the soil where first he grew", "Should take his dust; I urge this course on you.”"]}, {"id": "D5.37.29", "lines": ["An Iranian said, “No end will come from speech;", "I know a wiser judgment we may reach."]}, {"id": "D5.37.30", "lines": ["I know a meadow, left from kings of old,", "A memory of those whose tales are told."]}, {"id": "D5.37.31", "lines": ["An elder calls it Khorram; waters lie", "Within its wood beneath the open sky."]}, {"id": "D5.37.32", "lines": ["A voice from out the mountain answers all;", "And all who gather understand its call."]}, {"id": "D5.37.33", "lines": ["Bring in an elder, bent with many a year;", "But keep the royal coffin resting here."]}, {"id": "D5.37.34", "lines": ["Let him inquire; the mountain will reply,", "And guide our counsel where the king should lie.”"]}, {"id": "D5.37.35", "lines": ["They sped like mountain stags toward the wood, ", "And reached the heights where Khorram’s forest stood."]}, {"id": "D5.37.36", "lines": ["They asked; a voice rang echoing from the steep: ", " “Why should you here the royal coffin keep?"]}, {"id": "D5.37.37", "lines": ["Iskandariya, which he built in life, ", "Shall hold his dust, and banish every strife.”"]}, {"id": "D5.37.38", "lines": ["The legions heard, and swiftly took the road,", "And from the wood they bore their sacred load."]}, {"id": "D5.38.1", "lines": ["When they arrived at Iskandariya’s gate,", "A changed world bowed beneath its heavy fate."]}, {"id": "D5.38.2", "lines": ["They set the coffin on the open plain,", "And earth was filled with cries of grief and pain."]}, {"id": "D5.38.3", "lines": ["The children, men, and women gathered near", "Throughout Iskandariya, round the bier."]}, {"id": "D5.38.4", "lines": ["An expert, counting all who gathered round,", "More than a hundred thousand would have found."]}, {"id": "D5.38.5", "lines": ["Arastatilis the wise stood by the dead,", "With weeping crowds on every side outspread."]}, {"id": "D5.38.6", "lines": ["He placed his hand upon the casket lid, ", "And wept before the monarch whom it hid:"]}, {"id": "D5.38.7", "lines": ["“Where are your wit and learning, counsel’s grace,", "Now that this narrow coffin is your place?"]}, {"id": "D5.38.8", "lines": ["Why have you chosen dust to be your bed,", "So young, with so few years above your head?”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.9", "lines": ["The Roman sages gathered; one then cried:", "“O brazen elephant, whose strength has died,"]}, {"id": "D5.38.10", "lines": ["Who felled you, wounded you, and brought you low?", "Where did your foresight, poise, and counsel go?”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.11", "lines": ["Another said: “You hid away your gold;", "Why does it now your lifeless corpse enfold?”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.12", "lines": ["“None could escape you; why did you withstand", "The might of Death and grapple hand to hand?”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.13", "lines": ["“You rest at last from all the toil and pain,", "And from the quest for power and for gain.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.14", "lines": ["“When you appear before the Judge,” one said,", "“You reap the harvest of the life you led.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.15", "lines": ["“Powerless now he lies,” another cried,", "“Who spilled the blood of kings in all his pride.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.16", "lines": ["“Soon we shall be as you,” one sage then grieved,", "“Once like a flawless gem, of life bereaved.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.17", "lines": ["“Till now you were the master to impart; ", "Today you learn what humbled souls take to heart.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.18", "lines": ["“Since one like you could not escape death’s door,", "We should restrain our hands from grasping more.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.19", "lines": ["“O you who stood above the moon and sun,", "Why hide your lovely face from everyone?”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.20", "lines": ["“A man of many skills will strive to hold", "His face uncovered by the weight of gold."]}, {"id": "D5.38.21", "lines": ["Yet now, accomplished man, courageous, great,", "You lie beneath the yellow gold’s dead weight.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.22", "lines": ["“You wear brocade; its folds conceal from view", "Your lovely face from us who look for you."]}, {"id": "D5.38.23", "lines": ["Lift up your head; the crown now seeks its own,", "The armlet too, and that great ivory throne.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.24", "lines": ["“From moon-faced servants you have turned away,", "From those of Chin and Rum who would obey."]}, {"id": "D5.38.25", "lines": ["You clasp your gold; yet keep not, as before,", "The Kayanians’ gold and rich brocaded store.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.26", "lines": ["“The questioner will question you today;", "What guiding answer will you find to say?"]}, {"id": "D5.38.27", "lines": ["Why did you shed the blood of men of might,", "And fiercely throw yourself into the fight?"]}, {"id": "D5.38.28", "lines": ["Did you not see the great who met their end,", "With only their good name to take as friend?”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.29", "lines": ["“Your day is past; your tongue has ceased to speak;", "No further words from you can others seek.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.30", "lines": ["“Whoever saw your crown and royal state", "Should curb the wish to be so high and great."]}, {"id": "D5.38.31", "lines": ["What failed to stay with you will stay with none;", "Plant not the tree of greatness in the sun.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.32", "lines": ["“Your deeds are turned to wind,” another said,", "“Your death has freed each mighty chieftain’s head."]}, {"id": "D5.38.33", "lines": ["Now shall you see a court, a world so vast,", "Where sheep from wolves are severed at the last.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.34", "lines": ["“Why in this fleeting world,” one sage then cried,", "“Did you toil on until your spirit died?"]}, {"id": "D5.38.35", "lines": ["For this is all your toil has won for you:", "A narrow coffin is your treasure due."]}, {"id": "D5.38.36", "lines": ["You who once loved the karnay’s battle-cheer, ", "Lie deaf to all within this silence here.”"]}, {"id": "D5.38.37", "lines": ["“When all your legions leave, you will remain,", "All by yourself upon the lonely plain."]}, {"id": "D5.38.38", "lines": ["Perhaps you watch each person go away,", "And grieve for life that could no longer stay.”"]}, {"id": "D5.39.1", "lines": ["Iskandar’s mother rushed with tear-stained eyes, ", "And pressed against his chest with mourning cries."]}, {"id": "D5.39.2", "lines": ["“O glorious King of kings,” his mother cried,", "“Star-favored, pious lord of kingdoms wide,"]}, {"id": "D5.39.3", "lines": ["So close you lie, yet far from us who stand", "Beside you, far from legions and your land."]}, {"id": "D5.39.4", "lines": ["May my soul serve your soul; may hearts be torn", "From all who greet with joy the death I mourn.”"]}, {"id": "D5.39.5", "lines": ["Then Roshanak arrived in deep despair,", "She cried: “O Shah, whose like is found nowhere,"]}, {"id": "D5.39.6", "lines": ["Where now is Dara, ruler of the earth,", "Through whom the world stood firm in all its worth?"]}, {"id": "D5.39.7", "lines": ["Where Khosrow, Ashk, and Faryan, where is Foor,", "Sind’s mighty men, the king of Shahrzur?"]}, {"id": "D5.39.8", "lines": ["Where are the other kings who met your might,", "Whose heads were cast to dust in that fierce fight?"]}, {"id": "D5.39.9", "lines": ["You were a storm-cloud hurling hail below;", "I thought that death could never lay you low."]}, {"id": "D5.39.10", "lines": ["Through all the carnage and the blood you shed,", "Alone, or with the legions that you led,"]}, {"id": "D5.39.11", "lines": ["I thought that time had granted you reprieve,", "A secret none among us could perceive."]}, {"id": "D5.39.12", "lines": ["You emptied all the world of men of might,", "Then cast away the crown that shone so bright."]}, {"id": "D5.39.13", "lines": ["Just as the tree you planted bore its fruit,", "The earth now soothes you as you lie there mute.”"]}, {"id": "D5.39.14", "lines": ["When twilight dropped its mantle from the height, ", "The mourners hushed their speeches in the night."]}, {"id": "D5.39.15", "lines": ["They laid the coffin in the silent ground; ", "The world felt no dismay at such a mound."]}, {"id": "D5.39.16", "lines": ["Through wind and breath it bears us all along;", "No justice stands revealed, nor any wrong."]}, {"id": "D5.39.17", "lines": ["No how or why can open up its course;", "No humble man or king can grasp its force."]}, {"id": "D5.39.18", "lines": ["Be good and humane, generous and kind,", "And let good deeds and joy engage your mind."]}, {"id": "D5.39.19", "lines": ["I see no other share beneath the sky,", "For humble men or those whose fame stands high."]}, {"id": "D5.39.20", "lines": ["But if you leave a name for vice behind,", "God’s pardon, joyful Heaven, you shall not find."]}, {"id": "D5.39.21", "lines": ["Such is the custom of this ancient sphere;", "Iskandar went; his story lingers here."]}, {"id": "D5.39.22", "lines": ["Though thirty-six great kings his sword once slew,", "What share remains for him in all we view?"]}, {"id": "D5.39.23", "lines": ["Ten splendid cities rose beneath his hand;", "Now thorns have overrun their former land."]}, {"id": "D5.39.24", "lines": ["He sought what no man dared to seek before,", "And words of him survive on every shore."]}, {"id": "D5.39.25", "lines": ["Words are the better: they will not decay", "Like halls that snow and rain have worn away."]}, {"id": "D5.39.26", "lines": ["I pass Iskandar’s mighty barrier here; ", "May light and blessing crown the coming year."]}, {"id": "D5.40.1", "lines": ["O lofty sky, the source of heart’s delight,", "Why leave me old and in this wretched plight?"]}, {"id": "D5.40.2", "lines": ["In youth you held me in your warm embrace;", "Why leave me scorned in age, denied your grace?"]}, {"id": "D5.40.3", "lines": ["The pampered flower grows yellow and forlorn;", "Through pain, the figured silk grows rough as thorn."]}, {"id": "D5.40.4", "lines": ["The stately cypress now is bent in two,", "The cherished lamp grows dim before my view."]}, {"id": "D5.40.5", "lines": ["The mountain-top once black is capped with snow,", "The army blames its king for all its woe."]}, {"id": "D5.40.6", "lines": ["You were a mother to me long ago,", "But now you make my heart’s blood freely flow."]}, {"id": "D5.40.7", "lines": ["No wisdom lights the dark designs in you;", "Your faithless turn has pierced my spirit through."]}, {"id": "D5.40.8", "lines": ["I wish you had not nurtured me at all,", "Or, having raised me, spared me such a fall."]}, {"id": "D5.40.9", "lines": ["When I depart this gloom, I shall arraign", "Your wrongs before my Judge and make them plain."]}, {"id": "D5.40.10", "lines": ["Before the Holy One I shall complain,", "With dust strewn on my head, cry out in pain."]}, {"id": "D5.40.11", "lines": ["Time saw my heart bent under age’s load,", "And two shares of its guilt on me bestowed."]}, {"id": "D5.40.12", "lines": ["The lofty sky replied: “Old man, I hear", "Your harmless words; now let me make this clear:"]}, {"id": "D5.40.13", "lines": ["Why charge me with the good and ill you find?", "Does such lament befit a learned mind?"]}, {"id": "D5.40.14", "lines": ["You stand above me in all things, and feed", "Your soul with knowledge, tending to its need."]}, {"id": "D5.40.15", "lines": ["Food, sleep, and rest are yours, and reasoned thought;", "Yours are the paths where good and ill are sought."]}, {"id": "D5.40.16", "lines": ["Of all you speak, no knowledge is my own;", "Such things to sun and moon remain unknown."]}, {"id": "D5.40.17", "lines": ["Seek guidance from the One who made the way,", "Who made the sun and moon, the night and day."]}, {"id": "D5.40.18", "lines": ["His being is no secret; He is One,", "Whose work is never ended or begun."]}, {"id": "D5.40.19", "lines": ["He says, ‘Be,’ and all He wills comes true;", "A fool is one who holds another view."]}, {"id": "D5.40.20", "lines": ["Created as a servant, I remain", "A worshipper within my Maker’s reign."]}, {"id": "D5.40.21", "lines": ["I turn by His command; I dare not stray", "Beyond the covenant that guides my way."]}, {"id": "D5.40.22", "lines": ["Turn then to God, and seek His sheltering care;", "Ask what you wish, with measure in your prayer."]}, {"id": "D5.40.23", "lines": ["Know Him alone as Maker of the sky;", "He lights the moon, Nahid, the sun on high."]}, {"id": "D5.40.24", "lines": ["May His blessings on the Prophet’s soul descend,", "And to each one of his Companions extend.”"]}]}, {"id": "D6", "title": "The Ashkanian Dynasty", "summary": "16 sections · 761 couplets", "path": "/poem/d6/", "couplets": [{"id": "D6.1.1", "lines": ["Now let the world’s great monarch be my theme,", "In feast and fight and knowledge held supreme."]}, {"id": "D6.1.2", "lines": ["A king, Abul-Qasim, most sage and wise,", "From wisdom all his counsels take their rise."]}, {"id": "D6.1.3", "lines": ["May joy forever in his heart remain,", "Free from all trouble, weariness, and pain."]}, {"id": "D6.1.4", "lines": ["Great Mahmud rules with counsel firm and sound,", "Through him the name of greatness holds its ground."]}, {"id": "D6.1.5", "lines": ["King of Kings of Iran, Zabulistan,", "From Ghanooj to the bounds of Kabulistan."]}, {"id": "D6.1.6", "lines": ["Bless him, his army, and his kindred band,", "His royal house and all his subject land."]}, {"id": "D6.1.7", "lines": ["Bless Nasr, Mahmud’s sepahbod and amir,", "The joy of time’s revolving, circling sphere."]}, {"id": "D6.1.8", "lines": ["Victorious, famed and fortunate is he;", "His arrow passes cleanly through a tree."]}, {"id": "D6.1.9", "lines": ["With one like Abul-Muzaffar in command,", "Above the moon the army’s head shall stand."]}, {"id": "D6.1.10", "lines": ["May Shah Mahmud live safe forevermore,", "And hold his throne above his golden store."]}, {"id": "D6.1.11", "lines": ["May his sepahbod prosper, glad and true,", "Bright-hearted, with his treasury thriving too."]}, {"id": "D6.1.12", "lines": ["While turning heaven still maintains its place,", "May love be never severed from this race."]}, {"id": "D6.1.13", "lines": ["May all his line rejoice in triumphs won,", "Crowned from the father down from son to son."]}, {"id": "D6.1.14", "lines": ["Now fourteen days of Shawwal have gone by;", "Let blessings on our sovereign multiply."]}, {"id": "D6.1.15", "lines": ["The crowned and gracious Shah has made it clear:", "Glad news of his decree on tax we hear."]}, {"id": "D6.1.16", "lines": ["No tax shall be demanded for one year", "From men of ardent faith and godly fear."]}, {"id": "D6.1.17", "lines": ["The age of Anooshirvan now returns;", "The world is changed, as any eye discerns."]}, {"id": "D6.1.18", "lines": ["When many years have passed, he still shall spread", "The canopy of justice overhead."]}, {"id": "D6.1.19", "lines": ["By justice and the good that he has done,", "He has a robe of honor, heaven-won."]}, {"id": "D6.1.20", "lines": ["That robe upon his form shall never fray,", "While on his head the Kayanian crown shall stay."]}, {"id": "D6.1.21", "lines": ["May vigor crown his head, his flesh be sound,", "His spirit rise beyond the heavens’ bound."]}, {"id": "D6.1.22", "lines": ["Let none who count my months and years deny", "The worth of what I now shall prophesy."]}, {"id": "D6.1.23", "lines": ["Look well: this book shall stand through every age,", "A lasting banner raised above each sage."]}, {"id": "D6.1.24", "lines": ["Through this, his stock shall be like Kioumars’ own,", "And all shall bless the lineage thus made known."]}, {"id": "D6.1.25", "lines": ["Thus Anooshirvan, son of Qobad, said:", "“When any king from justice turns his head,"]}, {"id": "D6.1.26", "lines": ["Heaven blacks the charter of his royal claim;", "His star no longer calls him Shah by name."]}, {"id": "D6.1.27", "lines": ["Injustice is the writ that ends his reign", "When blameless hearts are burdened with its pain.”"]}, {"id": "D6.1.28", "lines": ["Forever may this royal house endure,", "In worth and wisdom, righteous and secure."]}, {"id": "D6.1.29", "lines": ["No lasting foothold here has anyone,", "But a good name will last when life is done."]}, {"id": "D6.1.30", "lines": ["Jamshid, Zahhak, and Fereydoon: where lie", "The Arab chiefs, Iran’s kings, long gone by?"]}, {"id": "D6.1.31", "lines": ["Where are the great ones of Sasanian fame,", "The house of Bahram and the Samanian name?"]}, {"id": "D6.1.32", "lines": ["Of all the kings, Zahhak was most reviled,", "Unjust in rule, impure, by wrong defiled."]}, {"id": "D6.1.33", "lines": ["But glorious Fereydoon won praise from all;", "He died, yet still his bright renown stands tall."]}, {"id": "D6.1.34", "lines": ["The word remains, a lasting, precious store", "Of memory, worth royal gems and more."]}, {"id": "D6.1.35", "lines": ["The unjust man whose joy was crown and gold", "Leaves no good name for later men to hold."]}, {"id": "D6.1.36", "lines": ["No worldly joy remains for him to keep;", "His name, which later tongues forget, will sleep."]}, {"id": "D6.1.37", "lines": ["This writ from him whose people are his care—", "May throne and royal ease remain his share—"]}, {"id": "D6.1.38", "lines": ["Sent people from their houses to the plain;", "Their prayers rose past the heavens in this refrain:"]}, {"id": "D6.1.39", "lines": ["“May he live long, the crowned head of our land,", "And fortune guide him with a generous hand."]}, {"id": "D6.1.40", "lines": ["May he see only joy; may halls proclaim", "In writing on their walls his royal name."]}, {"id": "D6.1.41", "lines": ["May all our blessings with one voice embrace", "His kin, troops, realm, his royal form and face.”"]}, {"id": "D6.2.1", "lines": ["O singer, seasoned by advancing age,", "Now let Ashkanian times your thoughts engage."]}, {"id": "D6.2.2", "lines": ["What does the chronicler of old record?", "What does his book of ancient truth afford?"]}, {"id": "D6.2.3", "lines": ["What mighty chiefs remained to rule the land,", "With great Iskandar gone from all command?"]}, {"id": "D6.2.4", "lines": ["The dehqan out of Chakh says none could claim", "The world’s great ivory throne in his own name."]}, {"id": "D6.2.5", "lines": ["But princes, born of Arash’s noble breed,", "Were bold and headstrong, rash in thought and deed."]}, {"id": "D6.2.6", "lines": ["Each held a corner of the scattered land,", "A little realm beneath his own command."]}, {"id": "D6.2.7", "lines": ["Rejoicing, each was seated on his throne;", "As Tribal Kings these rulers then were known."]}, {"id": "D6.2.8", "lines": ["Two hundred years passed by with none to claim", "The earth entire and rule it in his name."]}, {"id": "D6.2.9", "lines": ["Each left the others to their own domain;", "The earth found rest a while from strife and strain."]}, {"id": "D6.2.10", "lines": ["For Iskandar had split the realm apart,", "That Rum might flourish through his ruling art."]}, {"id": "D6.2.11", "lines": ["The first was Ashk, of Qobad’s line and breed,", "Then warrior Shapur, born of blessed seed."]}, {"id": "D6.2.12", "lines": ["Gudarz the Ashkanian, brave and bright,", "And Bijan, a Kayanian of might."]}, {"id": "D6.2.13", "lines": ["Narsi, great Hormizd, and Arash acclaimed,", "A mighty warrior, far and widely famed."]}, {"id": "D6.2.14", "lines": ["Next, Ardavan is named upon the page:", "A just king, bright of soul, in counsel sage."]}, {"id": "D6.2.15", "lines": ["When Bahram of the Ashkanians came to reign,", "He shared his treasure, easing poor men’s pain."]}, {"id": "D6.2.16", "lines": ["They called him Ardavan the Great, who tore", "The wolf’s claws from the sheep they gripped before."]}, {"id": "D6.2.17", "lines": ["He ruled Shiraz and Isfahan as lord,", "“The Great Lords’ Land,” as learned men record."]}, {"id": "D6.2.18", "lines": ["Babak held Istakhr from him; such strength he bore,", "His hook could make a mighty dragon roar."]}, {"id": "D6.2.19", "lines": ["Their root and branch cut short, no tale is told", "By the experienced chronicler of old."]}, {"id": "D6.2.20", "lines": ["I heard their names alone; no more was known", "To me, nor in the Book of Kings was shown."]}, {"id": "D6.3.1", "lines": ["When great Iskandar knew his end was near,", "He laid before the chiefs his counsel clear:"]}, {"id": "D6.3.2", "lines": ["That none should turn their thoughts to Rum’s domain,", "And Rum should thrive, secure from grief and pain."]}, {"id": "D6.3.3", "lines": ["When wisdom guides the monarch of the land,", "Such wholesome fruit grows from his wise command."]}, {"id": "D6.3.4", "lines": ["When Dara fell in battle, fortune fled;", "His house was left with darkened days ahead."]}, {"id": "D6.3.5", "lines": ["His son was blessed with joy and noble name,", "Wise, brave Sasan, of royal stock and fame."]}, {"id": "D6.3.6", "lines": ["He saw his father lying with the slain,", "And saw ill fortune over Iran reign."]}, {"id": "D6.3.7", "lines": ["He fled before the Roman troops in dread,", "Escaped the snares of ruin, onward sped."]}, {"id": "D6.3.8", "lines": ["In Hindustan his mournful days were done;", "He left behind a little boy, his son."]}, {"id": "D6.3.9", "lines": ["Each father gave his son the selfsame name;", "Down to the fourth, Sasan remained the same."]}, {"id": "D6.3.10", "lines": ["They drove the camels, shepherded the sheep,", "And labored through the years in hardship deep."]}, {"id": "D6.3.11", "lines": ["The young man left in search of work and gain,", "In hope that wealth would ease his toil and strain."]}, {"id": "D6.3.12", "lines": ["He saw the master-shepherd on the plain,", "At Babak’s flocks, and spoke of need and pain:"]}, {"id": "D6.3.13", "lines": ["“Have you some work for one who seeks his bread,", "Whose life in bitter need and want is led?”"]}, {"id": "D6.3.14", "lines": ["The master-shepherd took him on, and bent", "His back to labor till his strength was spent."]}, {"id": "D6.3.15", "lines": ["His work won favor; now his charge would be", "The flocks, with all their shepherds to oversee."]}, {"id": "D6.3.16", "lines": ["One night Babak, the son of Rudyab, dreamed", "A vision clear within his soul, which gleamed:"]}, {"id": "D6.3.17", "lines": ["He saw Sasan, an Indian sword in hand,", "Ride a fierce elephant, majestic, grand."]}, {"id": "D6.3.18", "lines": ["All those who came before him blessed his name,", "And bowed to him in homage as they came."]}, {"id": "D6.3.19", "lines": ["He made the earth more fair in every part,", "And cleared the grief and darkness from each heart."]}, {"id": "D6.3.20", "lines": ["Next night, as sleep lay heavy on his head,", "His mind was stirred by thoughts that came and fled."]}, {"id": "D6.3.21", "lines": ["A worshipper of fire appeared in sight,", "With three fires in his hands, each one alight."]}, {"id": "D6.3.22", "lines": ["Azargashasp, Kharrad, and Mehr shone bright,", "Like turning heaven in their blazing light."]}, {"id": "D6.3.23", "lines": ["Before Sasan the fires in splendor glowed;", "In each burned aloes, and their radiance flowed."]}, {"id": "D6.3.24", "lines": ["Babak awoke, his soul disturbed and grave,", "And anxious thoughts rose up like wave on wave."]}, {"id": "D6.3.25", "lines": ["He summoned those whose skill in dreams was sound,", "In every branch of learning, wise, profound."]}, {"id": "D6.3.26", "lines": ["Nobles and counselors came to his hall;", "The wise men gathered there at Babak’s call."]}, {"id": "D6.3.27", "lines": ["Then Babak spoke of what his mind concealed,", "And told them all the dreams, each part revealed."]}, {"id": "D6.3.28", "lines": ["The interpreter listened, weighing what was said,", "And turned the visions over in his head."]}, {"id": "D6.3.29", "lines": ["At last he said, “Exalted king, attend:", "This vision must be scanned from end to end."]}, {"id": "D6.3.30", "lines": ["The man thus seen in sleep will raise his crown", "Above the sun in glory and renown."]}, {"id": "D6.3.31", "lines": ["Or if the dream refers not to that one,", "The world itself will pass to his own son.”"]}, {"id": "D6.3.32", "lines": ["Babak rejoiced at what the sages said,", "And fitting gifts before each one were spread."]}, {"id": "D6.3.33", "lines": ["He sent for Sasan, head shepherd of the fold,", "On a day of driving snow and bitter cold."]}, {"id": "D6.3.34", "lines": ["He came, his woolen wrap all snowy white;", "His heart was split in two by bitter fright."]}, {"id": "D6.3.35", "lines": ["Babak cleared the room; the guide withdrew,", "And all the servants left the chamber too."]}, {"id": "D6.3.36", "lines": ["He welcomed young Sasan and drew him near,", "And seated him beside him with good cheer."]}, {"id": "D6.3.37", "lines": ["He asked the shepherd’s lineage and race;", "The frightened man sat silent in his place."]}, {"id": "D6.3.38", "lines": ["“O prince,” he said, “first pledge that I shall live,", "And shield me from the harm these words may give."]}, {"id": "D6.3.39", "lines": ["Then I will tell my lineage, strand by strand;", "First swear your oath, and take me by the hand:"]}, {"id": "D6.3.40", "lines": ["That neither open harm nor hidden ill", "Shall ever reach me through your act or will.”"]}, {"id": "D6.3.41", "lines": ["Babak invoked the Giver of all good,", "And swore his oath, as Sasan asked he should:"]}, {"id": "D6.3.42", "lines": ["“No harm from me shall ever come to you;", "In joy and honor I shall keep you too.”"]}, {"id": "D6.3.43", "lines": ["Then said the youth, “O noble Pahlevan,", "Know that I am the son of Sasan."]}, {"id": "D6.3.44", "lines": ["I spring from King Ardeshir, known to fame", "In ancient chronicles by Bahman’s name."]}, {"id": "D6.3.45", "lines": ["His father was Esfandiyar the bold,", "Whose father Goshtasb wore the crown of gold.”"]}, {"id": "D6.3.46", "lines": ["Babak, on hearing this, let fall a stream", "Of tears from those same eyes that saw the dream."]}, {"id": "D6.3.47", "lines": ["“Go bathe,” said Babak, “wait there till they bear", "The new robes I am sending you to wear.”"]}, {"id": "D6.3.48", "lines": ["He brought out royal robes to clothe Sasan,", "And gave a horse equipped for a Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "D6.3.49", "lines": ["He raised him from the shepherd’s humble place,", "And built him a grand palace, rich in grace."]}, {"id": "D6.3.50", "lines": ["Sasan was settled there, and at his call", "Stood slaves and servants, ready in the hall."]}, {"id": "D6.3.51", "lines": ["He gave him gear and wealth in ample store,", "So want and need could trouble him no more."]}, {"id": "D6.3.52", "lines": ["He gave Sasan his cherished daughter’s hand,", "And his own crown, the emblem of command."]}, {"id": "D6.4.1", "lines": ["Nine months had passed; the moon-faced mother’s boy", "Shone like the sun, a radiant birth of joy."]}, {"id": "D6.4.2", "lines": ["He seemed the image of great Ardeshir,", "A source of growing joy and constant cheer."]}, {"id": "D6.4.3", "lines": ["His father looked with wonder on the child,", "And named him Ardeshir, and gladly smiled."]}, {"id": "D6.4.4", "lines": ["He reared him fondly, cradled at his breast,", "And years went by; the boy grew, richly blessed."]}, {"id": "D6.4.5", "lines": ["Discerning men, whose minds were sharp and clear,", "Now called the youth “Babakan Ardeshir.”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.6", "lines": ["They taught him every art of hand and mind;", "These arts enriched the gifts his birth assigned."]}, {"id": "D6.4.7", "lines": ["In learning, face, and stature, rising high,", "He seemed a light that set ablaze the sky."]}, {"id": "D6.4.8", "lines": ["News of his learning reached the royal ear;", "King Ardavan heard praise of Ardeshir:"]}, {"id": "D6.4.9", "lines": ["“He is a savage lion in the fight,", "And, feasting, like Nahid in grace and light.”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.10", "lines": ["He wrote to Babak, Pahlevan of fame,", "And thus addressed the chief of honored name:"]}, {"id": "D6.4.11", "lines": ["“O learned man of pure, discerning mind,", "A knowing guide, in speech and thought refined,"]}, {"id": "D6.4.12", "lines": ["I hear Ardeshir, your son, is skilled in speech,", "A horseman quick to learn what others teach."]}, {"id": "D6.4.13", "lines": ["When you have read this letter, send him here;", "At once, and gladly, let the youth draw near."]}, {"id": "D6.4.14", "lines": ["I shall supply his needs and raise his name", "Among the chiefs to dignity and fame."]}, {"id": "D6.4.15", "lines": ["Among my sons he shall receive his place;", "I shall embrace him as of royal race.”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.16", "lines": ["When Babak read, red tears ran down his face;", "Blood from his lashes marked their downward trace."]}, {"id": "D6.4.17", "lines": ["He summoned both the scribe and Ardeshir,", "The newly risen youth he held so dear."]}, {"id": "D6.4.18", "lines": ["He said, “Now read what Ardavan has penned,", "And weigh each word; let all your wits attend."]}, {"id": "D6.4.19", "lines": ["I now will send the king a fair reply,", "Through one I trust beneath the turning sky:"]}, {"id": "D6.4.20", "lines": ["‘Behold, I send a gallant youth to you,", "My heart and eyes, approved and loyal too."]}, {"id": "D6.4.21", "lines": ["I have advised him well. When he appears,", "Receive him royally among your peers."]}, {"id": "D6.4.22", "lines": ["Let no misfortune touch him in that place;", "Not even wind should blow upon his face.’”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.23", "lines": ["Then swift as wind he opened treasure’s doors,", "And gave the youth rich gifts from royal stores:"]}, {"id": "D6.4.24", "lines": ["Gold harness, gorz, and sword he freely gave;", "He held back nothing that the youth might crave."]}, {"id": "D6.4.25", "lines": ["Brocade and coins, with slaves, steeds, cloth of gold,", "And Chinese wares; a royal wealth to hold."]}, {"id": "D6.4.26", "lines": ["He laid before the youth each precious thing;", "The youth became a servant of the king."]}, {"id": "D6.4.27", "lines": ["Babak sent more gifts along with Ardeshir:", "Gold dinars, musk, and fragrant, sweet abir."]}, {"id": "D6.4.28", "lines": ["The youth left his grandfather on his way,", "And rode to Ardavan’s great court at Rey."]}, {"id": "D6.4.29", "lines": ["They told the king the youth was drawing near", "And asking leave before him to appear."]}, {"id": "D6.4.30", "lines": ["He called him in with kindness and good cheer;", "Of Babak he spoke much for him to hear."]}, {"id": "D6.4.31", "lines": ["He sat him near the throne, a seat of grace,", "And in the town arranged his dwelling place."]}, {"id": "D6.4.32", "lines": ["He sent him food and clothing, every kind,", "With rugs and spreads for comfort there assigned."]}, {"id": "D6.4.33", "lines": ["With nobles, Ardeshir then took his way", "To where the king had ordered him to stay."]}, {"id": "D6.4.34", "lines": ["When sunlight sat upon its throne one day,", "Earth, white as a Roman face, shone in its ray,"]}, {"id": "D6.4.35", "lines": ["Ardeshir called the envoy to his side,", "And had the gifts arranged in royal pride."]}, {"id": "D6.4.36", "lines": ["He sent the gifts to royal Ardavan;", "The envoy bore them with a Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "D6.4.37", "lines": ["The king approved the gifts; they brought delight,", "And raised the youth in favor in his sight."]}, {"id": "D6.4.38", "lines": ["He held the youth as fondly as a son,", "And let no care distress him, no, not one."]}, {"id": "D6.4.39", "lines": ["At wine, at table, or upon the chase,", "He took the youth along to share his place."]}, {"id": "D6.4.40", "lines": ["He held him as his kin, in warm affection;", "His son and Ardeshir shared like protection."]}, {"id": "D6.4.41", "lines": ["One day, the troops and prince rode out for sport,", "Then scattered widely, far beyond the court."]}, {"id": "D6.4.42", "lines": ["Now Ardavan had four sons of his own,", "In each the signs of royal blood were shown."]}, {"id": "D6.4.43", "lines": ["Ardeshir stayed beside great Ardavan,", "Who prized him as a noble of Iran."]}, {"id": "D6.4.44", "lines": ["A Gur-e-Khar appeared upon the plain;", "A clamor rose from all the hunting train."]}, {"id": "D6.4.45", "lines": ["They urged their steeds; the dust rose thick and high,", "And mingled with the sweat as they sped by."]}, {"id": "D6.4.46", "lines": ["Ardeshir rode ahead and neared the game,", "And set an arrow, taking careful aim."]}, {"id": "D6.4.47", "lines": ["He struck the male Gur-e-Khar’s rump; straight through", "Its body went the point and feathers too."]}, {"id": "D6.4.48", "lines": ["Then Ardavan arrived upon the plain,", "And saw the fallen Gur-e-Khar lie slain."]}, {"id": "D6.4.49", "lines": ["He asked, “Whose arrow felled this quarry grand?", "May life remain united with that hand!”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.50", "lines": ["Then Ardeshir addressed the king to say:", "“It was my arrow, Shah, that felled this prey.”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.51", "lines": ["One prince replied, “I brought it to its fate,", "And now I am in search of its own mate.”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.52", "lines": ["Ardeshir answered, “See, the plain is wide;", "With game and arrows here, let skill decide."]}, {"id": "D6.4.53", "lines": ["Then strike another with the selfsame art;", "A lie brings shame upon a noble heart.”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.54", "lines": ["Then Ardavan grew angry with the youth,", "And roared at him for speaking open truth:"]}, {"id": "D6.4.55", "lines": ["“The fault is mine; I never stand aloof,", "But nurture those who come beneath my roof."]}, {"id": "D6.4.56", "lines": ["Why should I keep you always at my side,", "At feast and hunt, and treat you as my pride,"]}, {"id": "D6.4.57", "lines": ["So you may outshine my own son in skill,", "And flaunt your strength before him at your will?"]}, {"id": "D6.4.58", "lines": ["Go now and tend my Arab steeds each day;", "Beside the royal stables you shall stay."]}, {"id": "D6.4.59", "lines": ["Be master of the stables; ply the trade", "Of every groom, and lend the others aid.”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.60", "lines": ["In tears, Ardeshir went to tend the steeds,", "His heart consumed by grief at Ardavan’s deeds."]}, {"id": "D6.4.61", "lines": ["“See how I suffer from him, how I smart!", "May anguish seize his body and his heart.”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.62", "lines": ["He wrote his grandfather, with heart distressed,", "While schemes and stratagems his mind possessed."]}, {"id": "D6.4.63", "lines": ["He told the tale of all that had occurred,", "And why the king to such great wrath was stirred."]}, {"id": "D6.4.64", "lines": ["When Babak read the letter, he concealed", "Its news; to no one were its words revealed."]}, {"id": "D6.4.65", "lines": ["His heart grew dark, weighed down by sorrow’s gloom;", "He brought out dinars from the treasure room."]}, {"id": "D6.4.66", "lines": ["Ten thousand dinars for the youth he sent;", "A rider on a camel with them went."]}, {"id": "D6.4.67", "lines": ["He called the scribe and bade him ink his reed,", "And write to Ardeshir with thought and heed:"]}, {"id": "D6.4.68", "lines": ["“O thoughtless youth, still young, recall the day", "You rode with Ardavan to hunt your prey:"]}, {"id": "D6.4.69", "lines": ["Why ride before his son? Your place is clear:", "A servant of his house, no kinsman here."]}, {"id": "D6.4.70", "lines": ["He did you no injustice out of spite;", "Your witless act itself brought on this slight."]}, {"id": "D6.4.71", "lines": ["Now strive to make him pleased and satisfied;", "Do all his will and set your pride aside."]}, {"id": "D6.4.72", "lines": ["I send you gold, and in this letter too", "Have set down all the counsel meant for you."]}, {"id": "D6.4.73", "lines": ["When you have used this sum, ask more to last,", "And let the passing days go drifting past.”"]}, {"id": "D6.4.74", "lines": ["The old, experienced rider hastened near;", "His swift camel brought him to Ardeshir."]}, {"id": "D6.4.75", "lines": ["He read the letter; sorrow gripped his heart,", "Which turned toward guile and schemes of cunning art."]}, {"id": "D6.4.76", "lines": ["He chose a lowly lodging by his steeds,", "Far less than royal birth or honor needs."]}, {"id": "D6.4.77", "lines": ["With carpets, food, and garments it was dressed,", "And spreads of every kind were laid for rest."]}, {"id": "D6.4.78", "lines": ["He passed his days in feasting, wine and song,", "With strings and minstrels through the whole night long."]}, {"id": "D6.5.1", "lines": ["Now Ardavan possessed a palace tall,", "Where dwelt his cherished slave within its wall."]}, {"id": "D6.5.2", "lines": ["Her name was Golnar, favorite by far,", "Moon-faced, jewel-bright, sweet-scented as a star."]}, {"id": "D6.5.3", "lines": ["She kept the keys to every treasure chest,", "And served as counselor at his behest."]}, {"id": "D6.5.4", "lines": ["He smiled with joy whenever she was near;", "More than his life, he held that maiden dear."]}, {"id": "D6.5.5", "lines": ["One day she climbed the palace roof above,", "And there saw Ardeshir, and fell in love."]}, {"id": "D6.5.6", "lines": ["His smiling lips, his youth, and beauty’s art", "Awoke both joy and love within her heart."]}, {"id": "D6.5.7", "lines": ["She waited till the deepening fall of night,", "Then bound a kamand to the rampart’s height."]}, {"id": "D6.5.8", "lines": ["She knotted it and tested it by hand,", "To learn what weight its knots could withstand."]}, {"id": "D6.5.9", "lines": ["She boldly climbed down by the knotted strand,", "Invoking God, whose favors ever stand."]}, {"id": "D6.5.10", "lines": ["In gems and musk and fragrant spice arrayed,", "She came with graceful steps to where he stayed."]}, {"id": "D6.5.11", "lines": ["From his brocade pillow she raised his head,", "And clasped him as he woke upon the bed."]}, {"id": "D6.5.12", "lines": ["He saw her face, her hair, her jeweled light,", "Her fragrance and adornment in the night."]}, {"id": "D6.5.13", "lines": ["He said, “How did you come before my eyes", "To grace my troubled heart with such surprise?”"]}, {"id": "D6.5.14", "lines": ["She answered, “I am yours in heart and soul;", "Your love has filled my heart and claimed it whole."]}, {"id": "D6.5.15", "lines": ["I shall come to you when you want me near,", "And make your darkest day shine bright and clear.”"]}, {"id": "D6.5.16", "lines": ["Those words made Ardeshir’s young heart rejoice;", "He found delight in her, in face and voice."]}, {"id": "D6.5.17", "lines": ["Thus time passed on, until misfortune fell", "On him who guided Ardeshir so well."]}, {"id": "D6.5.18", "lines": ["Wise Babak, seasoned in the ways of men,", "Died, leaving this old house to others then."]}, {"id": "D6.5.19", "lines": ["When news reached Ardavan, his grief was deep;", "His darkened soul had only grief to keep."]}, {"id": "D6.5.20", "lines": ["The chiefs each sought to govern Pars instead;", "He chose his eldest son to be their head."]}, {"id": "D6.5.21", "lines": ["He bade them bring the brazen kousts outside,", "And march the army to the plain stretched wide."]}, {"id": "D6.5.22", "lines": ["Ardeshir grieved for Babak, old and wise,", "And all the world grew dark before his eyes."]}, {"id": "D6.5.23", "lines": ["He loathed his service to the king; the news", "Had turned his mind to what new course to choose."]}, {"id": "D6.5.24", "lines": ["On every side he sought escape, forlorn;", "He longed for flight, by grief and anger torn."]}, {"id": "D6.5.25", "lines": ["Then Ardavan called in his learned seers,", "Wise men who traced the planets through their spheres."]}, {"id": "D6.5.26", "lines": ["He brought a few to court to learn his fate,", "And seek the course his stars would indicate."]}, {"id": "D6.5.27", "lines": ["He wished to learn what future days might bring,", "And whom good fortune next would make a king."]}, {"id": "D6.5.28", "lines": ["He sent them to Golnar, to watch the skies,", "And read what fate the turning stars devise."]}, {"id": "D6.5.29", "lines": ["For three full days they toiled to calculate,", "And weighed the sky by measure and by date."]}, {"id": "D6.5.30", "lines": ["The treasurer heard their secrets, word by word,", "And marked with care the hidden things she heard."]}, {"id": "D6.5.31", "lines": ["When the third day and three night watches ceased,", "The girl was from those learned men released."]}, {"id": "D6.5.32", "lines": ["She sighed with longing in the deep of night,", "And held each secret in her memory tight."]}, {"id": "D6.5.33", "lines": ["Upon the fourth day, all the sages went", "To tell King Ardavan what heaven meant."]}, {"id": "D6.5.34", "lines": ["With tables of the stars held at their breast,", "They left her rooms; the king they then addressed."]}, {"id": "D6.5.35", "lines": ["They told the secrets written in the sky,", "Their force and scope, and how they would apply."]}, {"id": "D6.5.36", "lines": ["They said, “The lofty heavens show this thing:", "Soon sorrow will disturb the heart of the king."]}, {"id": "D6.5.37", "lines": ["One now held low among your court will flee,", "A warrior-chief of noble pedigree."]}, {"id": "D6.5.38", "lines": ["Thereafter he will rise to royal might,", "And bless the world beneath his fortune’s light.”"]}, {"id": "D6.5.39", "lines": ["The king grew troubled at the words they said;", "Their forecast filled his heart with grief and dread."]}, {"id": "D6.5.40", "lines": ["When night was black as pitch, Golnar drew near,", "And came into the presence of Ardeshir."]}, {"id": "D6.5.41", "lines": ["He stormed like seas: “You cannot stay away", "From Ardavan for even one whole day?”"]}, {"id": "D6.5.42", "lines": ["She told him what the stargazers had said,", "And how the signs of kingship lay ahead."]}, {"id": "D6.5.43", "lines": ["Ardeshir grew calm and silent at the word,", "And chose to bear in patience what he heard."]}, {"id": "D6.5.44", "lines": ["Her words made sharp his heart’s resolve to flee;", "He sought the road by which he might go free."]}, {"id": "D6.5.45", "lines": ["He thought of flight and asked, “If I leave Rey,", "And seek Iran, where brave men lead the way,"]}, {"id": "D6.5.46", "lines": ["Will you come with me on that dangerous road,", "Or stay and serve the king in this abode?"]}, {"id": "D6.5.47", "lines": ["If you will come, great wealth shall be your own;", "And you shall be the crown upon the throne.”"]}, {"id": "D6.5.48", "lines": ["She pledged to stay with him until she died:", "“I am your slave; I shall not leave your side.”"]}, {"id": "D6.5.49", "lines": ["Cold sighs escaped her lips as thus she spoke;", "From both her eyes the yellow teardrops broke."]}, {"id": "D6.5.50", "lines": ["Ardeshir said, “Tomorrow we depart.”", "Necessity had gripped the young man’s heart."]}, {"id": "D6.5.51", "lines": ["She went back to her rooms, her life in hand,", "Prepared to risk herself for what she planned."]}, {"id": "D6.5.52", "lines": ["As soon as dawn had gilded earth with light,", "And driven back the darkness of the night,"]}, {"id": "D6.5.53", "lines": ["She opened up the treasure’s golden cache,", "And searched through gems whose priceless colors flash."]}, {"id": "D6.5.54", "lines": ["Of rubies, royal gems, and dinars bright,", "She took the wealth they needed for their flight."]}, {"id": "D6.5.55", "lines": ["She reached her rooms with all the gems she bore,", "And laid them there, a secret, precious store."]}, {"id": "D6.5.56", "lines": ["Her heart was pained and troubled by the deed;", "She weighed what plans might serve her in her need."]}, {"id": "D6.5.57", "lines": ["How could she flee the king and safely go?", "With that young man, what future would she know?"]}, {"id": "D6.5.58", "lines": ["She waited till night rose from mountain height,", "The king asleep, his people gone from sight."]}, {"id": "D6.5.59", "lines": ["She left the palace like an arrow’s flight,", "And brought the gems to Ardeshir that night."]}, {"id": "D6.5.60", "lines": ["He held a cup; his grooms were all asleep,", "And wine had sunk them into slumber deep."]}, {"id": "D6.5.61", "lines": ["For Ardeshir had plied them all with wine,", "Since he must flee in secret by design."]}, {"id": "D6.5.62", "lines": ["He chose two noble steeds, the finest bred,", "Now saddled at the manger where they fed."]}, {"id": "D6.5.63", "lines": ["He saw Golnar, and saw the jewels she bore;", "The ruddy dinars gleamed among her store."]}, {"id": "D6.5.64", "lines": ["He said, “We must be gone; we cannot stay;", "No longer here; now we must ride away."]}, {"id": "D6.5.65", "lines": ["May we escape this dragon’s claws and go,", "And save our youthful lives from all this woe.”"]}, {"id": "D6.5.66", "lines": ["He put the cup aside, his purpose steady;", "He bridled both the Arab steeds, made ready,"]}, {"id": "D6.5.67", "lines": ["Put on his khaftan, mounted, helmed, alert,", "And with a poison-watered blade was girt."]}, {"id": "D6.5.68", "lines": ["She mounted on the other steed to ride;", "Together they departed, side by side."]}, {"id": "D6.5.69", "lines": ["Together in the night to Pars they sped,", "Their hearts rejoicing as in stealth they fled."]}, {"id": "D6.5.70", "lines": ["Ardavan found no pleasure or delight", "Unless fair Golnar stood within his sight."]}, {"id": "D6.5.71", "lines": ["Upon his brocade couch he chose to stay", "Till Golnar’s face brought fortune to his day."]}, {"id": "D6.5.72", "lines": ["The hour had come for courtiers to convene;", "Brocade adorned the throne; she was not seen."]}, {"id": "D6.5.73", "lines": ["His anger rose, and grief disturbed his breast;", "By Golnar’s absence, he grew more distressed."]}, {"id": "D6.5.74", "lines": ["Before the gate the troops stood, one and all,", "While crown and throne stood ready in the hall."]}, {"id": "D6.5.75", "lines": ["Then from the court the chamberlain drew near,", "And spoke these words into the monarch’s ear:"]}, {"id": "D6.5.76", "lines": ["“The foremost nobles of the realm await;", "They stand assembled at the palace gate.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.1", "lines": ["The monarch asked his servants, “Why today", "Does Golnar shun her duties, stay away?"]}, {"id": "D6.6.2", "lines": ["Why does she leave my bedside? Does she nurse", "Some grievance that has made her grow averse?”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.3", "lines": ["The chief scribe came with tidings to report:", "“Last night young Ardeshir deserted court."]}, {"id": "D6.6.4", "lines": ["One gray, one black, he took from royal stalls,", "The king’s own mounts, most prized within these walls.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.5", "lines": ["Then Ardavan knew she had left his side", "To flee with Ardeshir upon that ride."]}, {"id": "D6.6.6", "lines": ["The warrior-king sprang up in wrath and ire,", "His heart ablaze with anger’s sudden fire."]}, {"id": "D6.6.7", "lines": ["He took a throng of horsemen in his train;", "His charger seemed to tread a burning plain."]}, {"id": "D6.6.8", "lines": ["He reached a noted settlement that lay", "With people and their herds beside the way."]}, {"id": "D6.6.9", "lines": ["He asked them, “Did you hear at break of day", "The sound of horses hurrying away?"]}, {"id": "D6.6.10", "lines": ["Did two ride past, one gray horse and one black,", "Both pressing onward down this very track?”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.11", "lines": ["A man replied, “Two riders passed this way;", "They rode into the plain without delay."]}, {"id": "D6.6.12", "lines": ["A mountain ram ran after them; its force", "Threw dust into the air as would a horse.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.13", "lines": ["Then Ardavan asked, turning to his aide,", "“Why does this ram pursue the tracks they made?”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.14", "lines": ["The minister replied, “That is his farr,", "His wings toward kingship and his fortune’s star."]}, {"id": "D6.6.15", "lines": ["If that ram reaches him, then call retreat;", "A long and grueling labor you will meet.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.16", "lines": ["There Ardavan dismounted for a stay", "To eat and rest, then hurried on his way."]}, {"id": "D6.6.17", "lines": ["They followed close the tracks Ardeshir made,", "And Ardavan rode foremost with his aide."]}, {"id": "D6.6.18", "lines": ["Swift as the wind Ardeshir and Golnar sped,", "Without a pause, by fear and fortune led."]}, {"id": "D6.6.19", "lines": ["Whoever has high heaven as a friend", "Need fear no harm an enemy may send."]}, {"id": "D6.6.20", "lines": ["At length Ardeshir, weary from his flight,", "Beheld a pool below him from a height."]}, {"id": "D6.6.21", "lines": ["Still riding, he said, “Golnar, you and I", "Are joined to hardship as we onward fly."]}, {"id": "D6.6.22", "lines": ["Let us dismount beside this spring; the strain", "Has worn both horse and rider on the plain."]}, {"id": "D6.6.23", "lines": ["Beside the water, let us rest and eat,", "Then ride refreshed and hasten our retreat.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.24", "lines": ["The two drew near the water, almost done;", "Their faces had grown yellow as the sun."]}, {"id": "D6.6.25", "lines": ["About to leave his horse, he saw beside", "The pool two youths who called to him to ride."]}, {"id": "D6.6.26", "lines": ["They cried, “Be quick! The stirrup and the rein", "Must serve you now; ride hard across the plain."]}, {"id": "D6.6.27", "lines": ["You slipped the dragon’s jaws and burning breath;", "To halt now may expose your life to death."]}, {"id": "D6.6.28", "lines": ["Do not dismount to eat beside this pool;", "Preserve your life; let that become your rule.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.29", "lines": ["Ardeshir heard and told Golnar, “They speak", "Good sense; now let us ride, and safety seek.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.30", "lines": ["He pressed the stirrup, gave the charger rein,", "And shouldered his bright spear to cross the plain."]}, {"id": "D6.6.31", "lines": ["Behind them Ardavan came like a blast,", "His soul in toil and shadow overcast."]}, {"id": "D6.6.32", "lines": ["When half the day had passed, the burning sun,", "The world’s bright lamp, still had its course to run,"]}, {"id": "D6.6.33", "lines": ["He saw a thriving city, fair and wide;", "Its people hurried out from every side."]}, {"id": "D6.6.34", "lines": ["He asked the noted Mobadan: “Recount", "The hour that valiant rider spurred his mount.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.35", "lines": ["Their leader answered, “King of fortune bright,", "Whose thoughts are pure and whose intent is right,"]}, {"id": "D6.6.36", "lines": ["Just as the sun grew yellow, losing light,", "And lapis cloaked the world with spreading night,"]}, {"id": "D6.6.37", "lines": ["Two riders hurried past, their mouths gone dry,", "Their faces thick with dust as they rode by."]}, {"id": "D6.6.38", "lines": ["Behind one rider ran a ram so rare,", "No painted palace creature could compare."]}, {"id": "D6.6.39", "lines": ["With Simorgh’s wings and peacock’s tail it sped,", "With Rakhsh’s ears and hooves and mighty head."]}, {"id": "D6.6.40", "lines": ["Like redbud blossom, crimson; in its speed,", "A storm wind; none recalls so strange a breed.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.41", "lines": ["The minister said, “King, give up this chase;", "Return from here to your accustomed place."]}, {"id": "D6.6.42", "lines": ["Assemble troops and all the gear to fight;", "The contest now stands in a different light."]}, {"id": "D6.6.43", "lines": ["His fortune rides behind him; have a care:", "To follow farther is to grasp at air;"]}, {"id": "D6.6.44", "lines": ["Write to your son concerning this pursuit,", "And set the whole in order, branch and root."]}, {"id": "D6.6.45", "lines": ["Perhaps your son may track him and restrain", "This ram before it grows a lion’s mane.”"]}, {"id": "D6.6.46", "lines": ["When Ardavan had heard, he knew his day", "Of high renown was passing into gray."]}, {"id": "D6.6.47", "lines": ["Within that city, Ardavan then stayed", "And praised the One from whom all good is made."]}, {"id": "D6.7.1", "lines": ["At dawn, when night had yielded to the day,", "He bade his troops return without delay."]}, {"id": "D6.7.2", "lines": ["His cheeks as pale as reeds, the king rode back;", "By night he reached great Rey along the track."]}, {"id": "D6.7.3", "lines": ["He wrote his son: “Deceit has upward grown", "And raised its head toward the crown and throne."]}, {"id": "D6.7.4", "lines": ["So swiftly Ardeshir has fled my sight,", "No arrow ever matched him in its flight."]}, {"id": "D6.7.5", "lines": ["Toward Pars he rides; in secret seek his trail,", "And tell no other person of this tale.”"]}, {"id": "D6.7.6", "lines": ["Ardeshir reached the water, raised his prayer:", "“O Helper, You have saved me from his snare."]}, {"id": "D6.7.7", "lines": ["You kept me safe from that man’s wicked hand;", "May he find nothing good in all the land.”"]}, {"id": "D6.7.8", "lines": ["He rested, called the boatman, then began", "To tell his past to that seafaring man."]}, {"id": "D6.7.9", "lines": ["The wise old sailor looked upon his guest,", "His stature and his features and his chest."]}, {"id": "D6.7.10", "lines": ["He knew the youth was of Kayanian line,", "And joyed to see his farr and splendor shine."]}, {"id": "D6.7.11", "lines": ["He hurried to the water, took command,", "And sent his boats toward every distant strand."]}, {"id": "D6.7.12", "lines": ["At famed Ardeshir’s name, along that shore,", "An army gathered, swelling more and more."]}, {"id": "D6.7.13", "lines": ["In Istakhr, too, the kin of Babak heard,", "And glory rose in every heart and word."]}, {"id": "D6.7.14", "lines": ["The line of Dara, scattered through the land,", "Were men of name, a widely honored band."]}, {"id": "D6.7.15", "lines": ["At news of Ardeshir, their joy took hold;", "Their hearts grew young, although their years were old."]}, {"id": "D6.7.16", "lines": ["From mountain, sea, and city, troop on troop,", "The people came and formed a widening group."]}, {"id": "D6.7.17", "lines": ["Counselors and sages joined his side,", "Around the youth who bore the royal pride."]}, {"id": "D6.7.18", "lines": ["Young Ardeshir then raised his voice and said,", "“O chiefs whose souls with wisdom’s light are fed,"]}, {"id": "D6.7.19", "lines": ["Of all the sages gathered here, no one,", "No counselor, can doubt what has been done."]}, {"id": "D6.7.20", "lines": ["All know the shame that Iskandar has sown,", "The baseness that through all the world was known."]}, {"id": "D6.7.21", "lines": ["He slew my ancestors with wrongful hand", "And seized, against all right, the royal land."]}, {"id": "D6.7.22", "lines": ["I spring from Esfandiyar’s exalted line,", "Yet Ardavan holds what is rightly mine."]}, {"id": "D6.7.23", "lines": ["We cannot call this justice, nor can thought", "Accept as just the rule that force has wrought."]}, {"id": "D6.7.24", "lines": ["Give me your help; I will not yield my right,", "Nor let a rival seize the realm by might."]}, {"id": "D6.7.25", "lines": ["What answer do you give? Speak fair and true;", "Declare the counsel that is held by you.”"]}, {"id": "D6.7.26", "lines": ["Then all who stood assembled in that place,", "Both men of counsel and the warrior race,"]}, {"id": "D6.7.27", "lines": ["Rose at his words and answered from the heart;", "They spoke their inmost thoughts, concealing no part."]}, {"id": "D6.7.28", "lines": ["They answered: “We, the heirs of Babak’s line,", "Rejoice to see your royal fortune shine."]}, {"id": "D6.7.29", "lines": ["We sons of Sasan gird ourselves to fight,", "To claim the vengeance that is ours by right."]}, {"id": "D6.7.30", "lines": ["Our souls and bodies wait at your command;", "Our joys and griefs lie wholly in your hand."]}, {"id": "D6.7.31", "lines": ["Your worth through father, mother, blood, and name", "Surpasses ours and grants you kingship’s claim."]}, {"id": "D6.7.32", "lines": ["We shall make mountains level with the plain,", "Our swords turn waters crimson with the slain.”"]}, {"id": "D6.7.33", "lines": ["When young Ardeshir heard their loyal cries,", "Past Venus, Mercury, his head would rise."]}, {"id": "D6.7.34", "lines": ["He blessed the chiefs; his thoughts of vengeance woke,", "And spread within his heart like rising smoke."]}, {"id": "D6.7.35", "lines": ["Beside the water, on the site he chose,", "A city by his bold design arose."]}, {"id": "D6.7.36", "lines": ["A Mobad spoke: “O Shah of fortune bright,", "Who wins men’s hearts and fills them with delight,"]}, {"id": "D6.7.37", "lines": ["You now renew the kingship of the land;", "First clear fair Pars of weeds with steady hand,"]}, {"id": "D6.7.38", "lines": ["Then turn on Ardavan while you are strong,", "And fortune young; to you these days belong."]}, {"id": "D6.7.39", "lines": ["His wealth exceeds the other Tribal Kings’;", "From him will come the grief that warfare brings."]}, {"id": "D6.7.40", "lines": ["But once his throne is shattered by your hand,", "No other king shall challenge your command.”"]}, {"id": "D6.7.41", "lines": ["Ardeshir heard the counsel with delight,", "And judged the Mobad’s words both wise and right."]}, {"id": "D6.7.42", "lines": ["When sunlight crowned the mountain peaks with day,", "He left for Istakhr, riding on his way."]}, {"id": "D6.7.43", "lines": ["News reached Bahman, Ardavan’s eldest son;", "His heart grew dark with grief at what was done."]}, {"id": "D6.7.44", "lines": ["He did not linger on his throne of might,", "But gathered troops and weapons for the fight."]}, {"id": "D6.8.1", "lines": ["There was a noble Pahlevan, Tabak by name,", "With arms and troops and counsel known to fame."]}, {"id": "D6.8.2", "lines": ["He ruled in Jahram, veteran, wise, and old,", "A seasoned lord whose word was firm and bold."]}, {"id": "D6.8.3", "lines": ["He had seven noble sons, and when he heard", "Of young Ardeshir’s rise, his heart was stirred."]}, {"id": "D6.8.4", "lines": ["From Jahram then he came in battle train,", "Troops, tabiras, deserting Bahman’s reign."]}, {"id": "D6.8.5", "lines": ["When he beheld Ardeshir, as was right,", "He left his horse and hastened to his sight."]}, {"id": "D6.8.6", "lines": ["He kissed his feet and spoke of Sasan’s fame,", "Recalling much about that royal name."]}, {"id": "D6.8.7", "lines": ["The prince received him with a gracious face,", "And praised his swift arrival at that place."]}, {"id": "D6.8.8", "lines": ["Yet caution still arose within his breast,", "For fear of Tabak gave his heart no rest."]}, {"id": "D6.8.9", "lines": ["Since great Tabak commanded such a force,", "He watched him on the march along their course."]}, {"id": "D6.8.10", "lines": ["The veteran understood his hidden fear,", "For long experience made his vision clear."]}, {"id": "D6.8.11", "lines": ["He brought Avesta and the Zand, and stood", "To swear by God, the source of every good:"]}, {"id": "D6.8.12", "lines": ["He said, “May God cut short Tabak’s poor life,", "If in my heart there lives deceit or strife."]}, {"id": "D6.8.13", "lines": ["When news first reached me of Shah Ardeshir,", "Who brought his army to the water here,"]}, {"id": "D6.8.14", "lines": ["I wearied of King Ardavan that day", "As young men tire of women old and gray."]}, {"id": "D6.8.15", "lines": ["Know this: I am your slave in heart and will,", "Patient and kind, to guard your secrets still.”"]}, {"id": "D6.8.16", "lines": ["Ardeshir probed him with a searching gaze,", "And found him loyal, true in every phrase."]}, {"id": "D6.8.17", "lines": ["He treated him as father, grave and sage,", "And set him over chiefs of name and age."]}, {"id": "D6.8.18", "lines": ["His doubts dispelled, he sought the sacred flame", "Of Ram Kharrad, and called upon God’s name."]}, {"id": "D6.8.19", "lines": ["He prayed to God to guide him in the right", "And lead him toward all goodness by His light."]}, {"id": "D6.8.20", "lines": ["He asked for triumph in each new pursuit,", "And that his tree of majesty bear fruit."]}, {"id": "D6.8.21", "lines": ["He sought his tent, where troops were brought to view,", "His steward at the muster with him too."]}, {"id": "D6.8.22", "lines": ["He paid the soldiers, armed them for the fight,", "And called on God, whose gifts are never slight."]}, {"id": "D6.8.23", "lines": ["His force stood like a leopard, fierce and strong;", "He marched on Bahman with that warlike throng."]}, {"id": "D6.8.24", "lines": ["The armies neared; their champions sought the field,", "Advancing in their might, too proud to yield."]}, {"id": "D6.8.25", "lines": ["On either side the ranks were ranged and braced,", "With Indian swords and spears, the foe they faced."]}, {"id": "D6.8.26", "lines": ["They clashed like fighting lions, and the flood", "They poured ran like a stream of flowing blood."]}, {"id": "D6.8.27", "lines": ["They fought until the sun grew yellow; then", "The air was thick with dust, the ground with men."]}, {"id": "D6.8.28", "lines": ["When heaven spread its turquoise canopy,", "Tabak’s whole army joined the battle’s sea."]}, {"id": "D6.8.29", "lines": ["A wind arose; a pitch-black cloud drew near;", "From out the army’s center came Ardeshir,"]}, {"id": "D6.8.30", "lines": ["Then Ardavan’s son Bahman fled the fight,", "His body pierced with arrows, heart in night."]}, {"id": "D6.8.31", "lines": ["With karnays blaring through the arrow-rain,", "Shah Ardeshir pursued him on the plain."]}, {"id": "D6.8.32", "lines": ["They reached Istakhr, where Bahman held his crown,", "The city of his glory and renown."]}, {"id": "D6.8.33", "lines": ["The Shah’s renown went out through every land,", "And countless troops came flocking to his hand."]}, {"id": "D6.8.34", "lines": ["They showed him all the wealth that Babak gained", "Through toil and hardship, gathered and retained."]}, {"id": "D6.8.35", "lines": ["Ardeshir shared those riches with his train,", "Then marched from Pars to wage his next campaign."]}, {"id": "D6.9.1", "lines": ["When news reached Ardavan, dread seized his heart,", "And gloom obscured his judgment’s better part."]}, {"id": "D6.9.2", "lines": ["He said, “A counselor once read the sky", "And told me what its hidden signs imply."]}, {"id": "D6.9.3", "lines": ["Yet can a man, by caution or by care,", "Escape the snares that fortune may prepare?"]}, {"id": "D6.9.4", "lines": ["I never thought Ardeshir’s heart would dare", "To win renown and cities everywhere.”"]}, {"id": "D6.9.5", "lines": ["He opened treasuries, assigned the grain,", "Made ready baggage for the long campaign."]}, {"id": "D6.9.6", "lines": ["From Gilan and from Dilam came the train;", "Its dust rose to the moon above the plain."]}, {"id": "D6.9.7", "lines": ["Ardeshir led out legions, vast and strong,", "The wind seemed trapped and helpless in their throng."]}, {"id": "D6.9.8", "lines": ["Two bowshots only lay between each side;", "No snake could rest beneath the earth and hide."]}, {"id": "D6.9.9", "lines": ["The tabiras and long horns blared; gongs rang,", "And Indian bells replied with clash and clang."]}, {"id": "D6.9.10", "lines": ["The banners waved, the blades of blue steel shone,", "The armies roared as heads to earth were thrown."]}, {"id": "D6.9.11", "lines": ["For forty days the battle raged away,", "Till common folk had nowhere safe to stay."]}, {"id": "D6.9.12", "lines": ["All food grew scarce; the routes for stores were strained,", "And little passage for supplies remained."]}, {"id": "D6.9.13", "lines": ["The plain grew mountain-like with heaps of slain,", "The wounded tired of life beneath their pain."]}, {"id": "D6.9.14", "lines": ["At last a mighty sable cloud arose,", "And brought a halt to battle’s crushing blows."]}, {"id": "D6.9.15", "lines": ["A frightful storm swept down upon the field;", "The warriors’ hearts with fear and anguish reeled."]}, {"id": "D6.9.16", "lines": ["The mountains echoed, and the plain was torn,", "While thunder through the shaken air was borne."]}, {"id": "D6.9.17", "lines": ["Then Ardavan’s men, shaken through with dread,", "Agreed as one upon the words they said:"]}, {"id": "D6.9.18", "lines": ["“This judgment comes from God upon our king;", "For our poor ranks, what grief and tears will spring!”"]}, {"id": "D6.9.19", "lines": ["When battle reached its fiercest, every sage", "Begged quarter in the midst of all that rage."]}, {"id": "D6.9.20", "lines": ["Then from the center charged brave Ardeshir,", "While clashing steel and arrow-showers drew near."]}, {"id": "D6.9.21", "lines": ["Amid the fighting Ardavan was caught;", "His crown would cost the life for which he fought."]}, {"id": "D6.9.22", "lines": ["A man named Kharrad seized him by the reins", "And brought him to the prince, a king in chains."]}, {"id": "D6.9.23", "lines": ["He led the captive king to Ardeshir;", "The Shah looked out and saw him drawing near."]}, {"id": "D6.9.24", "lines": ["King Ardavan dismounted from his steed,", "His body pierced, his wounds still made him bleed."]}, {"id": "D6.9.25", "lines": ["His soul was dark. Ardeshir gave command:", "“Executioner, take this foe in hand."]}, {"id": "D6.9.26", "lines": ["With your khanjar, cut him in two,” he said,", "“Across the waist, and fill our foes with dread.”"]}, {"id": "D6.9.27", "lines": ["The headsman did as Ardeshir had willed;", "And by his hand that famous king was killed."]}, {"id": "D6.9.28", "lines": ["Such is the ancient sky’s relentless way:", "Both Ardavan and Ardeshir must pay."]}, {"id": "D6.9.29", "lines": ["Whom heaven raises to the stars on high,", "It gives at last to dust beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D6.9.30", "lines": ["Two sons of Ardavan were captive made;", "On Arash’s proud line the shame was laid."]}, {"id": "D6.9.31", "lines": ["Their feet in fetters, by the Shah’s decree,", "They went to prison, stripped of liberty."]}, {"id": "D6.9.32", "lines": ["Two elder sons escaped the bitter fight,", "And slipped beyond the victor’s net in flight."]}, {"id": "D6.9.33", "lines": ["They fled in tears to Hindustan; their plight", "Deserves a tale for others to recite."]}, {"id": "D6.9.34", "lines": ["The field was strewn with horse gear, belt, and blade,", "With gold and silver, weapons all displayed."]}, {"id": "D6.9.35", "lines": ["By royal order all those spoils were stored,", "Then granted to the troops by their new lord."]}, {"id": "D6.9.36", "lines": ["Then Tabak stepped out from the noble band", "And cleansed the king of blood with grieving hand."]}, {"id": "D6.9.37", "lines": ["He washed him, weeping, of the battle stain,", "And built a royal dakhmeh for the slain."]}, {"id": "D6.9.38", "lines": ["He dressed the wounded breast in rich brocade,", "And on his head a camphor crown was laid."]}, {"id": "D6.9.39", "lines": ["Of all the troops that later went to Rey,", "None trod his palace grounds along the way."]}, {"id": "D6.9.40", "lines": ["Tabak then came before Shah Ardeshir,", "And said, “O king, incline your heart and hear:"]}, {"id": "D6.9.41", "lines": ["Ask Ardavan’s own daughter for your bride;", "Farr, beauty, crown, and throne are on her side."]}, {"id": "D6.9.42", "lines": ["His diadem and treasure you will gain,", "The wealth he gathered through long toil and pain.”"]}, {"id": "D6.9.43", "lines": ["The Shah accepted what the elder said,", "And asked for Ardavan’s own child to wed."]}, {"id": "D6.9.44", "lines": ["A month or two he stayed within that hall,", "A wealthy chief whose troops were wealthy all."]}, {"id": "D6.9.45", "lines": ["From Rey the monarch, weary of the war,", "Returned to Pars, and rested from its roar."]}, {"id": "D6.9.46", "lines": ["He built a city, gardens, courts, and halls,", "With springs and fields and valleys in its walls."]}, {"id": "D6.9.47", "lines": ["The old dehqan still calls it, speaking clear,", "By its own name of Khorra-e-Ardeshir."]}, {"id": "D6.9.48", "lines": ["Within, a spring ran ceaseless from its source,", "And fed the channels in their winding course."]}, {"id": "D6.9.49", "lines": ["He raised beside the spring a house of fire,", "Where Sadeh and Mehrgan relit its pyre."]}, {"id": "D6.9.50", "lines": ["Around it gardens, courts, and halls were laid,", "A spacious place magnificently made."]}, {"id": "D6.9.51", "lines": ["When that wise Shah of farr and strength was gone,", "The border-chief called it Gur from then on."]}, {"id": "D6.9.52", "lines": ["He founded villages around that land,", "And settled people there by his command."]}, {"id": "D6.9.53", "lines": ["He saw a deep lake, but the mountain lay", "Between its waters and their destined way."]}, {"id": "D6.9.54", "lines": ["They brought skilled workers, picks, and tools, and bored", "A hundred channels where the waters poured."]}, {"id": "D6.9.55", "lines": ["He led the channels down to Gur below,", "Where homes and herds increased with water’s flow."]}, {"id": "D6.10.1", "lines": ["From Istakhr’s gates the Shah rode to the field,", "With mighty troops and many a sword and shield."]}, {"id": "D6.10.2", "lines": ["He sought God’s blessing for a righteous deed:", "To make the robbers of that country bleed."]}, {"id": "D6.10.3", "lines": ["When he drew near, the Kurds advanced in might,", "In countless ranks that crowded all his sight."]}, {"id": "D6.10.4", "lines": ["What first had seemed a light and passing thing", "Became a grievous trial for the king."]}, {"id": "D6.10.5", "lines": ["The people rose to join the Kurdish side,", "Whose greater numbers filled the country wide."]}, {"id": "D6.10.6", "lines": ["All day the burning battle raged and swayed,", "Till all the Shah’s disheartened troops gave way."]}, {"id": "D6.10.7", "lines": ["The field grew narrow with the maimed and slain,", "Their bodies crowded all the fighting plain."]}, {"id": "D6.10.8", "lines": ["Of all his chiefs, not one would now remain;", "The Shah had but a small and humble train."]}, {"id": "D6.10.9", "lines": ["Their tongues were cracked with thirst from dust and heat;", "The burning sun upon their bodies beat."]}, {"id": "D6.10.10", "lines": ["When night unfurled its flag and ended strife,", "And stilled the clash that threatened every life,"]}, {"id": "D6.10.11", "lines": ["The Shah saw fire upon the mountain height,", "And led his few survivors toward the light."]}, {"id": "D6.10.12", "lines": ["Ardeshir turned toward its distant glow;", "His handful following where he would go."]}, {"id": "D6.10.13", "lines": ["He drew up close and saw the shepherds keep", "Their watch upon the herds of goats and sheep."]}, {"id": "D6.10.14", "lines": ["The Shah and all his men dismounted, worn;", "Their mouths were thick with dust from battle borne."]}, {"id": "D6.10.15", "lines": ["He asked the shepherds there for drink with haste;", "They brought him water, curdled milk to taste."]}, {"id": "D6.10.16", "lines": ["He ate a little of their fare, at ease,", "Then drew his khaftan off in night’s cool breeze."]}, {"id": "D6.10.17", "lines": ["He spread his khaftan out to make his bed;", "His royal helmet lay beneath his head."]}, {"id": "D6.10.18", "lines": ["When dawn rose from the deep with light of day,", "The Shah awoke where on the ground he lay."]}, {"id": "D6.10.19", "lines": ["The chief of herdsmen hastened to his side:", "“May peace attend your days and nights,” he cried."]}, {"id": "D6.10.20", "lines": ["“What trouble brought you to this mountain height?", "This is no fitting place to rest at night.”"]}, {"id": "D6.10.21", "lines": ["The Shah then asked the shepherd, “Show the way:", "Where can I find a sheltered place to stay?”"]}, {"id": "D6.10.22", "lines": ["The chief replied, “No settled place is near", "That you can reach without a guide from here."]}, {"id": "D6.10.23", "lines": ["A guide can lead you four farsangs by trail", "Down to the nearest hamlets in the vale."]}, {"id": "D6.10.24", "lines": ["Beyond, the villages lie close and spread;", "In each, a well-known chief stands at its head.”"]}, {"id": "D6.10.25", "lines": ["He took old herdsmen, guides who knew the ground,", "To lead him where those villages were found."]}, {"id": "D6.10.26", "lines": ["Down to the village then the Shah descended;", "Its headman came to meet him, and attended."]}, {"id": "D6.10.27", "lines": ["He sent out mounted heralds to report", "Back to Khorra-e-Ardeshir’s great court."]}, {"id": "D6.10.28", "lines": ["When news of him had reached the royal train,", "The troops set out, rejoicing, through the plain."]}, {"id": "D6.10.29", "lines": ["He sent out scouts to watch the Kurdish force,", "And learn in secret all their actions’ course."]}, {"id": "D6.10.30", "lines": ["They hurried out and then returned to bring", "Their secret tidings back before the king:"]}, {"id": "D6.10.31", "lines": ["“They seek renown and all rejoice and cheer;", "No thought of you has stirred a moment’s fear."]}, {"id": "D6.10.32", "lines": ["They think you sit in Istakhr, worn and weak,", "Your aging fortune fading as they speak.”"]}, {"id": "D6.10.33", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced and cast the past aside;", "His former loss no longer checked his stride."]}, {"id": "D6.10.34", "lines": ["From all his seasoned troops he chose the best,", "Ten thousand swordsmen, mounted for the test."]}, {"id": "D6.10.35", "lines": ["A thousand archers joined, each bowman skilled,", "With quivers at his side, with arrows filled."]}, {"id": "D6.11.1", "lines": ["He led his troops as sunset spread its veil,", "And left the weak behind as day grew pale."]}, {"id": "D6.11.2", "lines": ["When half the night had passed, across the ground", "He neared the Kurds, with darkness all around."]}, {"id": "D6.11.3", "lines": ["The plain was filled with men who lay asleep;", "His soldiers’ hearts were seething, poised to leap."]}, {"id": "D6.11.4", "lines": ["Ardeshir reached the camp where Kurds lay still,", "And loosed his charger’s rein to speed at will."]}, {"id": "D6.11.5", "lines": ["He drew his sword and charged across the plain,", "And crowned the grass with blood of warriors slain."]}, {"id": "D6.11.6", "lines": ["The heads and hands of Kurds lay all around;", "Full sixty upon sixty strewed the ground."]}, {"id": "D6.11.7", "lines": ["Captives past number fell into his hand;", "Their pride and folly could no longer stand."]}, {"id": "D6.11.8", "lines": ["He gave their lands as spoil to all his men,", "And dealt out crowns and bags of money then."]}, {"id": "D6.11.9", "lines": ["An elder might across the plain convey", "Gold on his head, borne safely in a tray;"]}, {"id": "D6.11.10", "lines": ["No man would glance at it or lift a hand;", "His fortune and his justice ruled the land."]}, {"id": "D6.11.11", "lines": ["He made no boast of prowess in the fray,", "But back to Istakhr turned upon his way."]}, {"id": "D6.11.12", "lines": ["He bade them, “Let your horses’ strength renew;", "Put all the riders’ weapons right and true."]}, {"id": "D6.11.13", "lines": ["When feasting has restored your strength and might,", "Then turn your thoughts again toward the fight.”"]}, {"id": "D6.11.14", "lines": ["The warriors ate and loosened every belt,", "Then rested from the toil their bodies felt."]}, {"id": "D6.11.15", "lines": ["Ardeshir’s mind on war was firmly set;", "Now hear and keep in mind; do not forget."]}, {"id": "D6.12.1", "lines": ["Now hear the strange, eventful tale I tell,", "The dehqan’s tale of marvels that befell."]}, {"id": "D6.12.2", "lines": ["Of Kojaran beside the Persian shore,", "And Pars’s breadth and height, he tells us more."]}, {"id": "D6.12.3", "lines": ["The city, cramped and crowded, held a throng;", "Each earned his food by labor all day long."]}, {"id": "D6.12.4", "lines": ["Young maidens labored daily for their bread,", "Compelled by need to keep their bodies fed."]}, {"id": "D6.12.5", "lines": ["Beside the city rose a mountain height;", "Together all the girls would reach that site."]}, {"id": "D6.12.6", "lines": ["Each bore a poplar case, her distaff stowed,", "And cotton weighed to be her daily load."]}, {"id": "D6.12.7", "lines": ["They gathered daily by the city gate,", "And walked toward the mountain with their freight."]}, {"id": "D6.12.8", "lines": ["They pooled their food, and when the meal was laid,", "An equal portion went to every maid."]}, {"id": "D6.12.9", "lines": ["Their talk was not of rest or midday bread,", "But who could spin the greatest length of thread."]}, {"id": "D6.12.10", "lines": ["At night they journeyed home, their labor done,", "The cotton into patterned yarn now spun."]}, {"id": "D6.12.11", "lines": ["Haftvad lived there, a man of little gold,", "Yet cheerful in his nature, we are told."]}, {"id": "D6.12.12", "lines": ["And why was he called Haftvad? You shall hear:", "His seven sons had made the meaning clear."]}, {"id": "D6.12.13", "lines": ["He had one daughter, cherished from her birth;", "Yet he esteemed all daughters of no worth."]}, {"id": "D6.12.14", "lines": ["One day the girls together took their place,", "And sat with spindles at the mountain’s base."]}, {"id": "D6.12.15", "lines": ["They pooled the food they brought to eat that day,", "And at their meal set all their tools away."]}, {"id": "D6.12.16", "lines": ["Beside the path the lucky maiden found", "An apple blown down from a tree to ground."]}, {"id": "D6.12.17", "lines": ["She saw it, picked it up, and held it near;", "Now hear the wondrous tale I tell you here."]}, {"id": "D6.12.18", "lines": ["She bit the fruit, and in its flesh she spied", "A worm that lay within the apple’s side."]}, {"id": "D6.12.19", "lines": ["She lifted it with fingers from its place,", "And set it gently in her distaff case."]}, {"id": "D6.12.20", "lines": ["She took the cotton, saying as she spun,", "“In God’s name, peerless, partnerless, and One!"]}, {"id": "D6.12.21", "lines": ["Today, through this small worm, you all shall see", "What wondrous spinning fortune brings to me.”"]}, {"id": "D6.12.22", "lines": ["The girls grew merry, laughing in delight,", "And flashed their silver teeth, all clear and bright."]}, {"id": "D6.12.23", "lines": ["That day she doubled all she had to spin,", "And on the ground marked what she gathered in."]}, {"id": "D6.12.24", "lines": ["She hurried home like smoke and showed the skein;", "Her mother praised her labor and her gain."]}, {"id": "D6.12.25", "lines": ["Her mother blessed her lovingly: “Well done!", "Fair-faced, what starry favor you have won!”"]}, {"id": "D6.12.26", "lines": ["Next dawn she counted yarn that she had twined;", "She took a double share with eager mind."]}, {"id": "D6.12.27", "lines": ["With heart and body bent on spinning more,", "She joined her friends where she had spun before."]}, {"id": "D6.12.28", "lines": ["She told the other girls with laughing cheer,", "“O moon-faced friends, whom lucky stars hold dear:"]}, {"id": "D6.12.29", "lines": ["By this worm’s fortune I shall spin so well", "That poverty with me shall never dwell.”"]}, {"id": "D6.12.30", "lines": ["She spun the doubled share, and could have spun", "Still more, so readily the work was done."]}, {"id": "D6.12.31", "lines": ["She bore the yarn back home; her mother’s eyes", "Beheld it, and her heart was Paradise."]}, {"id": "D6.12.32", "lines": ["Each dawn she brought an apple for its meal,", "And fed the worm with patient, tender zeal."]}, {"id": "D6.12.33", "lines": ["However large the cotton share might grow,", "The artful girl could spin it all just so."]}, {"id": "D6.12.34", "lines": ["One day her parents questioned her to see", "The secret of her great ability."]}, {"id": "D6.12.35", "lines": ["“Have you, pure maiden, made a fairy kin,", "Your sister, that so much your hands can spin?”"]}, {"id": "D6.12.36", "lines": ["The maiden told her mother all the tale:", "The apple, worm, and luck that did not fail."]}, {"id": "D6.12.37", "lines": ["She showed the lucky worm to both, and bright", "Their hearts became, rejoicing at the sight."]}, {"id": "D6.12.38", "lines": ["Haftvad received it as an omen, glad,", "And put aside all other work he had."]}, {"id": "D6.12.39", "lines": ["He spoke of nothing but that worm’s good fate;", "His aged fortune grew both young and great."]}, {"id": "D6.12.40", "lines": ["Time passed; his prospects widened day by day,", "And brighter grew his fortunes on the way."]}, {"id": "D6.12.41", "lines": ["They would not slight the worm or stint its feed;", "They tended it and nourished it with heed."]}, {"id": "D6.12.42", "lines": ["It grew in strength and size, and colors spread", "In beauty on its back and on its head."]}, {"id": "D6.12.43", "lines": ["It soon outgrew the case in which it lay;", "Its skin grew black as musk from day to day."]}, {"id": "D6.12.44", "lines": ["Across that blackness saffron markings ran,", "And covered all its back in one broad span."]}, {"id": "D6.12.45", "lines": ["Haftvad prepared a sable chest with skill,", "And lodged the growing creature safe and still."]}, {"id": "D6.12.46", "lines": ["He rose in honor, consequence, and gold,", "And all his seven sons had wealth to hold."]}, {"id": "D6.12.47", "lines": ["Within that city people soon began", "To seek Haftvad as judge and leading man."]}, {"id": "D6.12.48", "lines": ["The city’s governor, of martial fame,", "Had troops and wealth and rank to match his name."]}, {"id": "D6.12.49", "lines": ["He sought a pretext, plotting every day,", "To take the low-born man’s dinars away."]}, {"id": "D6.12.50", "lines": ["Yet many nobles took Haftvad’s side,", "And joined his seven warlike sons in pride."]}, {"id": "D6.12.51", "lines": ["From Kojaran the karnay’s summons rang;", "With spears and swords and arrows forth they sprang."]}, {"id": "D6.12.52", "lines": ["Haftvad himself advanced before the train,", "And showed his valor in the battle’s strain."]}, {"id": "D6.12.53", "lines": ["He took the city, struck its ruler down,", "And seized his gems and treasure in the town."]}, {"id": "D6.12.54", "lines": ["The people gathered round him in their might;", "From Kojaran he moved toward the height."]}, {"id": "D6.12.55", "lines": ["He built a fortress on the mountain crest;", "The townsfolk joined him there and made their nest."]}, {"id": "D6.12.56", "lines": ["He fitted iron gates to guard the place,", "A home in peace, in war a sheltered base."]}, {"id": "D6.12.57", "lines": ["Upon the mountain-top a spring ran clear,", "Its waters entering the fortress here."]}, {"id": "D6.12.58", "lines": ["Around it he built walls of towering height,", "Whose summits rose beyond the gazer’s sight."]}, {"id": "D6.12.59", "lines": ["When once again the worm outgrew its chest,", "They built a masonry tank at his behest."]}, {"id": "D6.12.60", "lines": ["When stone and mortar warmed within the air,", "They placed the worm inside with gentle care."]}, {"id": "D6.12.61", "lines": ["Each dawn the keeper hurried on his way,", "From Haftvad’s presence at the break of day."]}, {"id": "D6.12.62", "lines": ["He made a great rice ration for its feed;", "The worm consumed it all to meet its need."]}, {"id": "D6.12.63", "lines": ["Five years passed by; its neck and body spread,", "An elephant in bulk from tail to head."]}, {"id": "D6.12.64", "lines": ["His daughter kept the creature at her side;", "Her father led its troops with martial pride."]}, {"id": "D6.12.65", "lines": ["In Chinese silk they clothed the worm with heed,", "While rice and milk and honey met its need."]}, {"id": "D6.12.66", "lines": ["The foolish man rejoiced in it the more;", "Haftvad, its chieftain, waited at its door."]}, {"id": "D6.12.67", "lines": ["From Chin’s far sea to Kerman spread his band;", "His armies stretched across the whole broad land."]}, {"id": "D6.12.68", "lines": ["His seven sons, ten thousand swordsmen strong,", "Had treasure, arms, and war gear borne along."]}, {"id": "D6.12.69", "lines": ["Whatever king against him came to fight,", "And brought his army near the worm’s dread might,"]}, {"id": "D6.12.70", "lines": ["That army would be broken in its turn;", "The tale spread far for all the world to learn."]}, {"id": "D6.12.71", "lines": ["So famed and mighty grew Haftvad’s high hold,", "No wind could stir around its ramparts bold."]}, {"id": "D6.13.1", "lines": ["When Ardeshir heard news of Haftvad’s name,", "Displeasure stirred his heart and lit his flame."]}, {"id": "D6.13.2", "lines": ["He sent against that chief a chosen band,", "High-starred and valiant warriors of the land."]}, {"id": "D6.13.3", "lines": ["When Haftvad heard, he held the threat as light,", "And gave no thought to those who sought the fight."]}, {"id": "D6.13.4", "lines": ["He hid his troops within a mountain fold,", "Then marched to battle with his warriors bold."]}, {"id": "D6.13.5", "lines": ["When battle raged, and gorzes, face to face,", "And battle-axes thundered in that place,"]}, {"id": "D6.13.6", "lines": ["The hidden troops emerged to join the fray;", "For Iran’s chiefs, the earth grew black that day."]}, {"id": "D6.13.7", "lines": ["No man could tell his hands from feet; the ground", "Itself, it seemed, had held their feet fast bound."]}, {"id": "D6.13.8", "lines": ["On dale and mountain such a slaughter grew", "That even victors tired of those they slew."]}, {"id": "D6.13.9", "lines": ["Whoever lived came swiftly from the fight,", "Back to the Shah from that disastrous plight."]}, {"id": "D6.13.10", "lines": ["Renowned Ardeshir learned what war had wrought:", "The slaughter, plunder, and the battle fought."]}, {"id": "D6.13.11", "lines": ["In grief he called his army to array;", "He hurried to distribute arms and pay."]}, {"id": "D6.13.12", "lines": ["Then angrily the Shah advanced; on high", "The base-born chieftain’s head rose toward the sky."]}, {"id": "D6.13.13", "lines": ["He brought forth arms and treasure from his hold,", "And scorned the war and army, growing bold."]}, {"id": "D6.13.14", "lines": ["His eldest son, who then was far away,", "Heard that his father stood in war’s array."]}, {"id": "D6.13.15", "lines": ["He left his ease, his feasting, and his sleep,", "And came by boat across the water deep."]}, {"id": "D6.13.16", "lines": ["Shahvi, the world-seeker, was his name;", "Ill temper and foul speech went with his fame."]}, {"id": "D6.13.17", "lines": ["He left the boat and came to Haftvad’s side;", "The sight brought joy his father could not hide."]}, {"id": "D6.13.18", "lines": ["Haftvad arranged his station on the right,", "Commanding and arraying troops for fight."]}, {"id": "D6.13.19", "lines": ["Both armies stood well-furnished and supplied,", "With treasure stored and hatred deep inside."]}, {"id": "D6.13.20", "lines": ["The young Shah’s heart grew old with grief and dread,", "When he beheld the armies massed ahead."]}, {"id": "D6.13.21", "lines": ["They drew their battle lines on either side;", "From sun and swords the heat rose far and wide."]}, {"id": "D6.13.22", "lines": ["From elephants the mighty kousts rang out;", "At two farsangs, men swooned beneath that shout."]}, {"id": "D6.13.23", "lines": ["Karnays roared high; the tabiras gave sound,", "Their clamor filling all the world around."]}, {"id": "D6.13.24", "lines": ["Earth shook beneath the horseshoes’ nails and tread;", "Chiefs’ banners made the air a tulip red."]}, {"id": "D6.13.25", "lines": ["As gorzes rang on helmets in the fight,", "The heavens hailed the earth from their great height."]}, {"id": "D6.13.26", "lines": ["Wind-footed chargers tore the ground; the slain", "Left severed heads strewn through the pass and plain."]}, {"id": "D6.13.27", "lines": ["So vast was Haftvad’s army, one might say,", "“The sea is lashed by winds in wild array.”"]}, {"id": "D6.13.28", "lines": ["No ant or fly could find a place to stand,", "Both armies packed so close upon the land."]}, {"id": "D6.13.29", "lines": ["When daylight waned, and night across the world", "Its cloak of lapis lazuli had hurled,"]}, {"id": "D6.13.30", "lines": ["Ardeshir drew his forces from the war;", "Behind him lay the water and its shore."]}, {"id": "D6.13.31", "lines": ["The verdigris-green sea grew black with night;", "Scouts from both armies came within its sight."]}, {"id": "D6.13.32", "lines": ["The Shah’s men then grew faint for lack of bread;", "The foe had blocked the road by which they fed."]}, {"id": "D6.14.1", "lines": ["In Jahram lived Mehrak, Nushzad’s son,", "Whose line from Kayanian kings had run."]}, {"id": "D6.14.2", "lines": ["He heard how Shah Ardeshir marched away,", "And by the sea in hunger had to stay."]}, {"id": "D6.14.3", "lines": ["He learned what hardship held the troops in thrall,", "With roads barred shut and food denied them all."]}, {"id": "D6.14.4", "lines": ["From Jahram to the palace marched his band,", "With countless troops brought in at his command."]}, {"id": "D6.14.5", "lines": ["He gave the royal treasure as the spoil,", "With crowns and purses for his soldiers’ toil."]}, {"id": "D6.14.6", "lines": ["The Shah beside the sea received the word,", "And anxious thoughts within his spirit stirred."]}, {"id": "D6.14.7", "lines": ["He said, “Why leave my home without defense,", "To wage a foreign war at such expense?”"]}, {"id": "D6.14.8", "lines": ["He called the chiefs and spoke of Mehrak’s raid,", "And told at length what havoc he had made."]}, {"id": "D6.14.9", "lines": ["“What counsel now can answer this dark need?", "Our means are straitened; how shall we proceed?"]}, {"id": "D6.14.10", "lines": ["Much have I drunk from fortune’s bitter cup,", "Yet never dreamed that Mehrak would rise up.”"]}, {"id": "D6.14.11", "lines": ["They raised their voices, crying, “May our king", "Be spared the evil days that time may bring."]}, {"id": "D6.14.12", "lines": ["Since Mehrak was a hidden foe, why bear", "The world’s adversity with such despair?"]}, {"id": "D6.14.13", "lines": ["You hold high greatness; yours the world’s command.", "We are your slaves and wait beneath your hand.”"]}, {"id": "D6.14.14", "lines": ["He ordered tables spread with cups and wine;", "Musicians played before the royal line."]}, {"id": "D6.14.15", "lines": ["They set roast lambs in plenty on the board,", "And all bent down to eat with one accord."]}, {"id": "D6.14.16", "lines": ["But when Ardeshir first began to eat,", "A pointed arrow struck the roasted meat."]}, {"id": "D6.14.17", "lines": ["It struck the plump roast lamb and sank from sight,", "Its whole length buried in the flesh outright."]}, {"id": "D6.14.18", "lines": ["The wise and warlike nobles, filled with dread,", "Drew back their hands at once from meat and bread."]}, {"id": "D6.14.19", "lines": ["Each heart bled anguish; none could bear the feast.", "One drew the arrow from the roasted beast."]}, {"id": "D6.14.20", "lines": ["They saw the writing on the shaft; aloud", "A scribe among them read it to the crowd."]}, {"id": "D6.14.21", "lines": ["In Pahlavi the words addressed the king:", "“Wise Shah, give ear to what these letters bring."]}, {"id": "D6.14.22", "lines": ["From our high fortress roof this shaft was sent;", "The Worm’s good fortune guards each battlement."]}, {"id": "D6.14.23", "lines": ["Had I aimed this arrow at Ardeshir,", "Its very feathers would have pierced him clear."]}, {"id": "D6.14.24", "lines": ["A monarch such as he should not engage", "The Worm in warfare in this present age.”"]}, {"id": "D6.14.25", "lines": ["Before Shah Ardeshir, the reader read", "The words borne on the sharpened shaft that sped."]}, {"id": "D6.14.26", "lines": ["The fortress stood two farsangs from their place;", "The words brought dread to every noble face."]}, {"id": "D6.14.27", "lines": ["Yet all invoked the blessing God bestows", "Upon earth’s king, whose royal grace still glows."]}, {"id": "D6.15.1", "lines": ["That night the Shah thought long upon the Worm,", "And feared the power that kept its fortune firm."]}, {"id": "D6.15.2", "lines": ["When sun displaced the moon, he marched away,", "And led his army toward Pars that day."]}, {"id": "D6.15.3", "lines": ["The foe pursued and blocked the roads around,", "So no clear passage for the Shah was found."]}, {"id": "D6.15.4", "lines": ["They cut his noted chiefs down in the flight;", "He fled with his own comrades from their might."]}, {"id": "D6.15.5", "lines": ["Behind him rose the cry: “The Worm’s good star!", "May fortune make its throne shine bright afar!”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.6", "lines": ["All marveled at the strange event and said,", "“Here is a thing to ponder in our dread.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.7", "lines": ["As he fled on through hill and desert wide,", "He saw a spacious city at his side."]}, {"id": "D6.15.8", "lines": ["They drove their horses onward, hard and fast,", "Like wolves across the rising ground they passed."]}, {"id": "D6.15.9", "lines": ["As he drew near, a house came into view,", "And at its door stood young men, strangers, two."]}, {"id": "D6.15.10", "lines": ["He halted there with those who still remained;", "The honest youths saw men by travel strained."]}, {"id": "D6.15.11", "lines": ["They asked, “Where have you come from, here so late,", "With dust upon you, in this troubled state?”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.12", "lines": ["He said, “Ardeshir passed along this way;", "We lagged behind amid the disarray."]}, {"id": "D6.15.13", "lines": ["He flees from Haftvad and the Worm in fear,", "And from the base-born, worthless troops they rear.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.14", "lines": ["The two young men sprang up to hear his woe;", "Their hearts grew dark with grief at such a blow."]}, {"id": "D6.15.15", "lines": ["They helped him from his saddle to the ground,", "And blessed the noble chiefs who stood around."]}, {"id": "D6.15.16", "lines": ["They furnished pleasant quarters for their stay,", "And set a meal before them in array."]}, {"id": "D6.15.17", "lines": ["The warriors sat beside the Shah to eat;", "The two young hosts attended them at meat."]}, {"id": "D6.15.18", "lines": ["They said, “Exalted one, beneath the sun", "No grief or joy endures when once begun."]}, {"id": "D6.15.19", "lines": ["Recall what wrong the tyrant Zahhak wrought,", "What ruin to the royal throne he brought."]}, {"id": "D6.15.20", "lines": ["Remember how Afrasiab brought pain,", "And made the hearts of many monarchs wane."]}, {"id": "D6.15.21", "lines": ["And how Iskandar came and struck them down,", "The kings who wore the world’s imperial crown."]}, {"id": "D6.15.22", "lines": ["All these have gone and left an evil name;", "No bliss of Paradise shall these men claim."]}, {"id": "D6.15.23", "lines": ["So Haftvad too shall fall from power and pride,", "And writhe in woe when fortune turns aside.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.24", "lines": ["The Shah’s heart freshened like a rose in spring;", "Their gracious speech relieved the burdened king."]}, {"id": "D6.15.25", "lines": ["Their counsel eased the burden on his soul;", "He told his secret and again grew whole."]}, {"id": "D6.15.26", "lines": ["“I am Ardeshir; Sasan’s son am I.", "I need your counsel; give me your reply."]}, {"id": "D6.15.27", "lines": ["How deal with Haftvad and the Worm he rears?", "May name and line be lost to future years.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.28", "lines": ["When Iran’s chief revealed his royal name,", "Both youths bowed down before his kingly frame."]}, {"id": "D6.15.29", "lines": ["They said, “All hail to you, O king, and may", "The hand of evil ever keep away."]}, {"id": "D6.15.30", "lines": ["We both are slaves to you in heart and soul;", "May lasting strength preserve your spirit whole."]}, {"id": "D6.15.31", "lines": ["As for the question you have set in view,", "We shall give counsel clear and sound to you."]}, {"id": "D6.15.32", "lines": ["Against the Worm and Haftvad, force will fail", "Unless you leave fair dealing’s open trail."]}, {"id": "D6.15.33", "lines": ["Their stronghold crowns the mountain, high and bold,", "With Worm and troops and treasure in its hold."]}, {"id": "D6.15.34", "lines": ["The town in front, the sea behind is spread;", "A rough path climbs the fortress overhead."]}, {"id": "D6.15.35", "lines": ["The Worm was born from Ahriman’s dark brain,", "The Maker’s enemy, the source of stain."]}, {"id": "D6.15.36", "lines": ["You call it worm, yet hidden in its skin", "A bloodthirsty Div is housed within.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.37", "lines": ["Ardeshir heard their words and felt relief;", "Their counsel lifted all his weight of grief."]}, {"id": "D6.15.38", "lines": ["He said, “So let this secret art proceed;", "To you belong the praise or blame of deed.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.39", "lines": ["The young men answered, and their words made clear", "A counsel pleasing to his prudent ear."]}, {"id": "D6.15.40", "lines": ["“We stand before you, servants at your side,", "And ever toward the good your steps will guide.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.41", "lines": ["Made glad by them, he hastened to his cause,", "His heart intent on justice and its laws."]}, {"id": "D6.15.42", "lines": ["The youths accompanied the Shah that day;", "He left with ardent heart and rode away."]}, {"id": "D6.15.43", "lines": ["He held his head high, strong in hope and cheer,", "And reached the town of Khorra-e-Ardeshir."]}, {"id": "D6.15.44", "lines": ["Troops, sages, counselors of noble name", "Flocked to the Shah as tidings of him came."]}, {"id": "D6.15.45", "lines": ["He rested, gave supplies to everyone,", "Then marched on Mehrak, Nushzad’s faithless son."]}, {"id": "D6.15.46", "lines": ["Since Mehrak dared not venture out to fight,", "The world grew narrow for him, dark as night."]}, {"id": "D6.15.47", "lines": ["When Shah Ardeshir drew near Jahram’s height,", "The faithless Mehrak hid himself from sight."]}, {"id": "D6.15.48", "lines": ["The king grew wrathful, lingered, and delayed", "His march until the traitor was waylaid."]}, {"id": "D6.15.49", "lines": ["He struck with Indian steel and cleft his neck,", "Then cast in flames the body’s headless wreck."]}, {"id": "D6.15.50", "lines": ["All captives of his lineage were slain;", "His khanjar left none living of that train."]}, {"id": "D6.15.51", "lines": ["One daughter hid herself and slipped the snare;", "The city rang with searches everywhere."]}, {"id": "D6.15.52", "lines": ["Then toward the Worm’s dark tower he repaired,", "While all his men for combat now prepared."]}, {"id": "D6.15.53", "lines": ["He chose twelve thousand horsemen, fierce and tried,", "Veteran riders gathered to his side."]}, {"id": "D6.15.54", "lines": ["When all his scattered troops had gathered round,", "He led them where two mountains flanked the ground."]}, {"id": "D6.15.55", "lines": ["A prudent man named Shahrgeer took command", "Of all the troops that waited in that land."]}, {"id": "D6.15.56", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Stay here, watchful at this base;", "Keep outposts manned and watching every place."]}, {"id": "D6.15.57", "lines": ["Choose shrewd horsemen, guides, and watchmen too,", "And send out riders every pathway through."]}, {"id": "D6.15.58", "lines": ["Safeguard the camp by night and through the day;", "For I myself will take a hidden way."]}, {"id": "D6.15.59", "lines": ["Now I shall use my ancestor’s device:", "Esfandiyar showed how such arts suffice."]}, {"id": "D6.15.60", "lines": ["If watchmen see by day a smoke-cloud rise,", "Or fire by night like sunlight in the skies,"]}, {"id": "D6.15.61", "lines": ["Know then the Worm’s whole course has reached its close;", "Its star has set; its trade no longer grows.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.62", "lines": ["He chose seven men, all lions in the fight,", "Brave chiefs who kept his secret sealed from sight."]}, {"id": "D6.15.63", "lines": ["Among his trusted men no word was breathed;", "Their tongues were bound, their plans in silence sheathed."]}, {"id": "D6.15.64", "lines": ["He chose fine gems, gold coins, and rich brocade,", "With gear and goods to serve a merchant’s trade."]}, {"id": "D6.15.65", "lines": ["He spent with prudent eyes, his plan concealed,", "And packed two chests with lead and solder, sealed."]}, {"id": "D6.15.66", "lines": ["He packed a brazen pot to play its part,", "For he was skilled and practiced in that art."]}, {"id": "D6.15.67", "lines": ["He called the chief equerry to his side:", "“Bring ten strong asses for the load,” he cried."]}, {"id": "D6.15.68", "lines": ["He dressed in donkey-drivers’ blanket wear,", "And loaded gold and silver with great care."]}, {"id": "D6.15.69", "lines": ["He left the army, seeking out the way,", "His anxious heart intent upon the fray."]}, {"id": "D6.15.70", "lines": ["The two young countrymen rode with him, true,", "As friends and counselors the journey through."]}, {"id": "D6.15.71", "lines": ["They were the youths who once received him well,", "And now came close where danger’s shadow fell."]}, {"id": "D6.15.72", "lines": ["Near that stronghold they halted on the crest,", "And caught their breath, allowing time for rest."]}, {"id": "D6.15.73", "lines": ["The Worm’s own servants formed a busy crew;", "They numbered sixty, each with work to do."]}, {"id": "D6.15.74", "lines": ["One saw the group of men and called aloud,", "“What wares are hidden underneath each shroud?”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.75", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “All sorts of wares I bring:", "Clothes, gold, and silver, every costly thing."]}, {"id": "D6.15.76", "lines": ["Brocade, gold coins, rich silks, and jewels bright,", "And ornaments to please a buyer’s sight."]}, {"id": "D6.15.77", "lines": ["I am a merchant from Khorasan’s land,", "With toil that leaves no leisure to my hand."]}, {"id": "D6.15.78", "lines": ["The Worm’s good favor made my fortune rise,", "And now I bring these gifts before its eyes."]}, {"id": "D6.15.79", "lines": ["It blessed my work; if I may serve it here,", "Then all my hopes will brighten and be clear.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.80", "lines": ["The servants of the Worm unbarred the door,", "And led the laden asses to the store."]}, {"id": "D6.15.81", "lines": ["When all his loads were brought within the gate,", "He set his business in its proper state."]}, {"id": "D6.15.82", "lines": ["He opened up a pack and gave a share", "Of goods he judged that he could rightly spare."]}, {"id": "D6.15.83", "lines": ["He spread a cloth before them on the ground,", "As donkey-drivers do when gathered round."]}, {"id": "D6.15.84", "lines": ["He loosed the bindings, turned the key, and poured", "A cup of wine from what the chest had stored."]}, {"id": "D6.15.85", "lines": ["Those whose appointed task was to provide", "The Worm with milk and rice remained aside."]}, {"id": "D6.15.86", "lines": ["They would not take the cup or drink the wine;", "Their turn to feed the Worm made them decline."]}, {"id": "D6.15.87", "lines": ["Ardeshir sprang up: “Rice and milk I bear,", "Enough to feed the Worm with greatest care."]}, {"id": "D6.15.88", "lines": ["If its chief servant grants me room and grace,", "For three days let me feed it in this place."]}, {"id": "D6.15.89", "lines": ["Perhaps its star will grant a share to me,", "And through its fortune I may famous be."]}, {"id": "D6.15.90", "lines": ["For three days drink with me, and take your ease;", "Then, when the fourth dawn lights the lands and seas,"]}, {"id": "D6.15.91", "lines": ["I shall erect a storehouse, broad and tall,", "Its roof above the palace and the wall."]}, {"id": "D6.15.92", "lines": ["As merchant come with precious wares to vend,", "Thus I shall make the Worm itself my friend.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.93", "lines": ["His words prevailed; they granted his request:", "“Then feed the Worm yourself, and let us rest.”"]}, {"id": "D6.15.94", "lines": ["The servants sat with wine-cups in their hands,", "While he, disguised, fulfilled his scheme’s demands."]}, {"id": "D6.15.95", "lines": ["They drank till wine had mastered every mind;", "They served the cup, the Worm now left behind."]}, {"id": "D6.15.96", "lines": ["When wine had left their tongues too slack to speak,", "He came with his two hosts, the Worm to seek."]}, {"id": "D6.15.97", "lines": ["He brought the metal and the cauldron near,", "And lit the fire while daylight still was clear."]}, {"id": "D6.15.98", "lines": ["When feeding time arrived, the Worm was fed", "With molten metal, boiling hot instead."]}, {"id": "D6.15.99", "lines": ["Its tongue came out, with all a cymbal’s hue,", "As when the rice was brought for it to chew."]}, {"id": "D6.15.100", "lines": ["One young man poured; the molten metal sank,", "And left the Worm all helpless in its tank."]}, {"id": "D6.15.101", "lines": ["A rumble from its maw convulsed the ground;", "The pit and earth both trembled at the sound."]}, {"id": "D6.15.102", "lines": ["Then Ardeshir came rushing like the gale,", "The two young warriors followed on his trail."]}, {"id": "D6.15.103", "lines": ["With sword and gorz and shafts their fury spread;", "Not one escaped; the drunken men lay dead."]}, {"id": "D6.15.104", "lines": ["From fortress roof he raised black smoke on high,", "A signal for the captain standing by."]}, {"id": "D6.15.105", "lines": ["The lookout saw and ran to Shahrgeer’s side:", "“Ardeshir has won!” the watchman then cried."]}, {"id": "D6.15.106", "lines": ["Shahrgeer then made no pause when this was said,", "But marched his ranks to meet the Shah ahead."]}, {"id": "D6.16.1", "lines": ["When Haftvad knew the Worm had met its end,", "His heart was torn by grief no hope could mend."]}, {"id": "D6.16.2", "lines": ["He came to take the fortress, pressing hard;", "The Shah rushed to the walls to stand on guard."]}, {"id": "D6.16.3", "lines": ["Haftvad strove hard, but failed to gain the height;", "A lion’s foot still held the rampart tight."]}, {"id": "D6.16.4", "lines": ["Iran’s troops came like mountains in their might,", "Then halted, hearts still burdened by their plight."]}, {"id": "D6.16.5", "lines": ["Then Shah Ardeshir called across the wall,", "“Advance to battle, Shahrgeer! Hear my call."]}, {"id": "D6.16.6", "lines": ["If Haftvad slips away, what will you gain?", "But wasted toil, and wind your hands retain?"]}, {"id": "D6.16.7", "lines": ["I fed the Worm hot metal; it is dead;", "Its luck is gone, its vaunted glory fled.”"]}, {"id": "D6.16.8", "lines": ["The army heard the Shah’s resounding call,", "And iron helmets armed the heads of all."]}, {"id": "D6.16.9", "lines": ["Still stung by former shame, they rose to fight,", "And armed their hearts with vengeance and with might."]}, {"id": "D6.16.10", "lines": ["The wind now turned against proud Haftvad’s side;", "Soon he was seized, his boast and power denied."]}, {"id": "D6.16.11", "lines": ["His eldest son, Shahvi, was also bound;", "The battle-chief was captured on the ground."]}, {"id": "D6.16.12", "lines": ["Ardeshir left the rampart and came down;", "Shahrgeer came on foot before the crown."]}, {"id": "D6.16.13", "lines": ["They brought a steed with golden trappings bright,", "And Shah Ardeshir mounted in their sight."]}, {"id": "D6.16.14", "lines": ["He ordered two tall gibbets on the strand,", "To rise beside the sea at his command."]}, {"id": "D6.16.15", "lines": ["He hung both living foes upon that height,", "And woke his enemies to fear their plight."]}, {"id": "D6.16.16", "lines": ["From out the army’s center Shahrgeer sped,", "And rained his arrows till the two were dead."]}, {"id": "D6.16.17", "lines": ["He gave the wealth as spoil to every man,", "And gladdened hearts grown dark since war began."]}, {"id": "D6.16.18", "lines": ["From end to end they emptied out the keep,", "And brought its riches down in heap on heap."]}, {"id": "D6.16.19", "lines": ["Whatever pleased the Shah among the hoard", "Was sent to Khorra-e-Ardeshir and stored."]}, {"id": "D6.16.20", "lines": ["He built a fire-temple, raised its flame,", "And brought Mehrgan and Sadeh back to fame."]}, {"id": "D6.16.21", "lines": ["His two young hosts received both crown and throne,", "With lands to govern, granted as their own."]}, {"id": "D6.16.22", "lines": ["He left in triumph, and his just command", "Spread through the realm of Pars across the land."]}, {"id": "D6.16.23", "lines": ["When man and beast had rested from their strain,", "He led his troops toward Zur with all his train."]}, {"id": "D6.16.24", "lines": ["To Kerman he sent troops, and gave the lead", "To one wise chief well fitted to the need."]}, {"id": "D6.16.25", "lines": ["He journeyed on to Tisfoon, where the throne", "Of his defeated foe became his own."]}, {"id": "D6.16.26", "lines": ["Such is the manner of the turning wheel,", "Whose mystery no mortal can reveal."]}, {"id": "D6.16.27", "lines": ["Bend to the world, for it will never bend;", "For low and high alternate without end."]}]}, {"id": "D7", "title": "The Early Sasanians", "summary": "18 sections · 1,019 couplets", "path": "/poem/d7/", "couplets": [{"id": "D7.1.1", "lines": ["At Baghdad, Ardeshir took the ivory throne;", "Upon his head the crown of victory shone."]}, {"id": "D7.1.2", "lines": ["With girdle bound, the kings’ great gorz in hand,", "He took his splendid seat to give command."]}, {"id": "D7.1.3", "lines": ["They called him King of kings; in every gaze,", "He seemed Goshtasb restored from former days."]}, {"id": "D7.1.4", "lines": ["When he had donned the crown in royal state,", "He spoke these words before the proud and great:"]}, {"id": "D7.1.5", "lines": ["“Justice is all my treasure here on earth;", "My toil and fortune give the world rebirth."]}, {"id": "D7.1.6", "lines": ["This treasure none can seize by fraud or force;", "Wrongdoing drives men down its bitter course."]}, {"id": "D7.1.7", "lines": ["If holy God is pleased with me, His hand", "Will not withhold from me this darkened land."]}, {"id": "D7.1.8", "lines": ["The whole wide world shall rest beneath my shield;", "My rule shall never to injustice yield."]}, {"id": "D7.1.9", "lines": ["Let no one go to sleep with needs denied", "By any officer who serves my side."]}, {"id": "D7.1.10", "lines": ["No chief or mounted warrior to me sworn", "Shall leave a heart to nurse its need forlorn."]}, {"id": "D7.1.11", "lines": ["My court stands open wide to friend and foe,", "To those who wish me well or wish me woe.”"]}, {"id": "D7.1.12", "lines": ["The whole assembly blessed him, crying then,", "“May justice make earth prosperous for men!”"]}, {"id": "D7.1.13", "lines": ["He sent out troops wherever foes held land,", "And gave the marching armies this command:"]}, {"id": "D7.1.14", "lines": ["“Make hostile chiefs submit; if they resist,", "Let throne and sword persuade them to desist.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.1", "lines": ["When Shah Ardeshir made proud Ardavan fall,", "The world was his; he stood above them all."]}, {"id": "D7.2.2", "lines": ["He took the slain king’s daughter as his bride,", "To learn where royal hoards lay deep inside."]}, {"id": "D7.2.3", "lines": ["Two sons of Ardavan to Hind had flown,", "To share whatever good or ill was shown."]}, {"id": "D7.2.4", "lines": ["Two more lay bound in Ardeshir’s domain;", "The living bore their wounds, their father slain."]}, {"id": "D7.2.5", "lines": ["In Hindustan the eldest brother stayed;", "His name was Bahman; there his plans were laid."]}, {"id": "D7.2.6", "lines": ["He chose a youth of judgment and of skill,", "Who heard his message with a ready will."]}, {"id": "D7.2.7", "lines": ["Denied a share of kingship, in despair,", "He gave the youth the poison he must bear."]}, {"id": "D7.2.8", "lines": ["He said, “Go tell my sister what I say:", "‘Seek no affection from our foe this way."]}, {"id": "D7.2.9", "lines": ["In Hindustan two brothers live in pain,", "Together bearing hardship’s bitter chain."]}, {"id": "D7.2.10", "lines": ["Two more in Ardeshir’s dark prison lie,", "With blood within their hearts and tears in eye."]}, {"id": "D7.2.11", "lines": ["How can the Maker bless the course you take,", "If you your father’s grieving house forsake?"]}, {"id": "D7.2.12", "lines": ["If you would be Iran’s queen, take your place,", "And win the praise of warriors for your grace,"]}, {"id": "D7.2.13", "lines": ["Take this Indian poison, cold and sure,", "And give Ardeshir death he cannot cure.’”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.14", "lines": ["The envoy came at evening with the word,", "And gave the king’s dear daughter what he heard."]}, {"id": "D7.2.15", "lines": ["Her soul burned for her brothers and their pain;", "Her heart became a furnace of disdain."]}, {"id": "D7.2.16", "lines": ["She took the poison, fixed upon the deed,", "And planned the death her brothers had decreed."]}, {"id": "D7.2.17", "lines": ["One day Ardeshir rode across the plain,", "And loosed his arrows at the wild ass train."]}, {"id": "D7.2.18", "lines": ["When half the day had passed, he turned to ride", "Back from the hunting ground to his bride’s side."]}, {"id": "D7.2.19", "lines": ["He sought his bride; she saw him drawing near,", "And ran to meet her husband, Ardeshir."]}, {"id": "D7.2.20", "lines": ["She brought a topaz cup, its contents sweet:", "Cold water, sugar, meal for him to eat."]}, {"id": "D7.2.21", "lines": ["To please Bahman, she mixed the deadly bane", "With meal and sugar, hoping for his gain."]}, {"id": "D7.2.22", "lines": ["The Shah received the cup, but from his hold", "It fell and broke; its contents outward rolled."]}, {"id": "D7.2.23", "lines": ["The queen shook hard beneath the sudden fear;", "Her heart seemed torn in two as he stood near."]}, {"id": "D7.2.24", "lines": ["The Shah grew doubtful when he saw her shake,", "And feared what turn the heavens now might take."]}, {"id": "D7.2.25", "lines": ["He bade a servant fetch four household hens,", "And bring the birds before him from their pens."]}, {"id": "D7.2.26", "lines": ["The birds were set before the poisoned fare;", "Those watching thought suspicion idle air."]}, {"id": "D7.2.27", "lines": ["The fowls ate of the meal and swiftly died;", "No kindly reading could the poison hide."]}, {"id": "D7.2.28", "lines": ["The pious monarch summoned then a sage,", "His learned minister, advanced in age."]}, {"id": "D7.2.29", "lines": ["He asked his minister, “If you should raise", "An enemy to honor and to praise,"]}, {"id": "D7.2.30", "lines": ["And favor so intoxicates his mind", "He seeks your life, to all your kindness blind,"]}, {"id": "D7.2.31", "lines": ["What punishment should such a treason bring?", "How deal with one who, fostered, turns to sting?”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.32", "lines": ["The minister replied, “Who seeks the king", "Must lose the head that planned so vile a thing."]}, {"id": "D7.2.33", "lines": ["Behead the guilty one without delay;", "Let no soft counsel turn your will away.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.34", "lines": ["The Shah commanded, “Take the woman’s head;", "Let Ardavan’s proud daughter join the dead.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.35", "lines": ["The minister went out; she walked ahead,", "She trembled, heart weighed down by guilt and dread."]}, {"id": "D7.2.36", "lines": ["She said, “O sage, your days and mine must end;", "Toward death the paths of both our lives must bend."]}, {"id": "D7.2.37", "lines": ["If you must kill me, hear before I die:", "Within me does Ardeshir’s offspring lie."]}, {"id": "D7.2.38", "lines": ["Though I deserve to have my lifeblood shed,", "Or hang upon a gibbet with the dead,"]}, {"id": "D7.2.39", "lines": ["Wait till the child is born and parted free;", "Then do whatever judgment falls on me.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.40", "lines": ["The shrewd old minister returned and told", "His master, but the Shah’s resolve stayed cold."]}, {"id": "D7.2.41", "lines": ["He said, “Pay no attention to her plea;", "Bring out the noose and do as I decree.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.42", "lines": ["The minister reflected, “Dark the day", "That brings such orders for me to obey."]}, {"id": "D7.2.43", "lines": ["All living men must reach the appointed end;", "The Shah has no son on whom hopes depend."]}, {"id": "D7.2.44", "lines": ["Though his long life a hundred years should last,", "At death his throne to foes alone is passed."]}, {"id": "D7.2.45", "lines": ["From this deed, fruitless as it is, I might", "Contrive some noble act and set it right."]}, {"id": "D7.2.46", "lines": ["I shall preserve this moon-face from the blade;", "Perhaps the Shah’s fierce purpose yet may fade."]}, {"id": "D7.2.47", "lines": ["Once she has borne the child, at his command", "The sentence still can pass beneath my hand."]}, {"id": "D7.2.48", "lines": ["This matter will not leave my troubled mind;", "Let wisdom guide me; let me not be blind.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.49", "lines": ["He furnished chambers in his hall apart,", "To guard her as his body and his heart."]}, {"id": "D7.2.50", "lines": ["He thought, “Not even passing air may see", "Her hidden face; so close her guard must be.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.51", "lines": ["Then thought, “My foes are many; doubts arise;", "No man is wholly trusted in my eyes."]}, {"id": "D7.2.52", "lines": ["I must ensure no slanderer can claim", "My stream runs foul, or stain my honored name.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.53", "lines": ["He gelded himself, seared the flesh that bled,", "Then bound the wound, with salves upon it spread."]}, {"id": "D7.2.54", "lines": ["He salted what his knife cut at a stroke,", "And packed it in a casket, swift as smoke."]}, {"id": "D7.2.55", "lines": ["He sealed the casket then, and came in pain,", "His yellow face betraying all his strain."]}, {"id": "D7.2.56", "lines": ["He told his servants, “Bring a litter here;", "At dusk, before the Shah, let me appear.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.57", "lines": ["They lifted him in anguish, bent and frail,", "And laid him in the litter, deathly pale."]}, {"id": "D7.2.58", "lines": ["The Shah then asked the minister to speak:", "“Why has such yellow pallor stained your cheek?”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.59", "lines": ["He answered, “What I did has left me torn,", "My heart in pain, my face so pale and worn.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.60", "lines": ["Before the lofty throne he set the case,", "Its seal and binding still secure in place."]}, {"id": "D7.2.61", "lines": ["He said, “Entrust this casket to the ward", "Of your own treasurer, within your hoard.”"]}, {"id": "D7.2.62", "lines": ["The date was written on the casket’s face,", "With marks by which its origin to trace."]}, {"id": "D7.3.1", "lines": ["When time of birth drew near, the cautious man", "Kept all concealed according to his plan."]}, {"id": "D7.3.2", "lines": ["The daughter of proud Ardavan gave birth", "To one of royal mien and ardent worth."]}, {"id": "D7.3.3", "lines": ["He named the child Shapur, concealed him well,", "And barred his door to guests, lest they should tell."]}, {"id": "D7.3.4", "lines": ["For seven years he kept him from the light,", "Until he grew kinglike in grace and height."]}, {"id": "D7.3.5", "lines": ["One day the minister approached the king,", "And saw tears rise from care’s consuming spring."]}, {"id": "D7.3.6", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah, success is yours, yet still", "Your soul is fed on sorrow’s bitter will."]}, {"id": "D7.3.7", "lines": ["The world has granted all you sought to own;", "You cast your foeman headlong from his throne."]}, {"id": "D7.3.8", "lines": ["Now is the time for joy and drinking wine,", "Not grief that makes the royal spirit pine."]}, {"id": "D7.3.9", "lines": ["Earth’s seven climes are yours; your troops await", "Your orders, as do all who serve the state.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.10", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “O counselor and guide,", "Whose wisdom sees what hidden cares I hide,"]}, {"id": "D7.3.11", "lines": ["Our scimitar has justified the age;", "Grief, toil, and hardship have withdrawn their rage."]}, {"id": "D7.3.12", "lines": ["My years are fifty-one; the musk once spread", "Is camphor now; my youthful roses fled."]}, {"id": "D7.3.13", "lines": ["I ought to have a son before me here,", "A joy of heart, a strength, a guide held dear."]}, {"id": "D7.3.14", "lines": ["A father with no son is like a boy", "Whose father died; no stranger brings such joy."]}, {"id": "D7.3.15", "lines": ["My crown and treasure fall to foes as spoil;", "For me, but dust and pain for all my toil.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.16", "lines": ["The shrewd old man then thought, “The time has come", "To speak, and end this sorrow’s heavy sum.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.17", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah, protector of your land,", "Magnanimous, supreme in heart and hand,"]}, {"id": "D7.3.18", "lines": ["If you will promise first to spare my life,", "I shall remove my lord’s inward strife.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.19", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “O sage, why should you fear?", "Speak what you know; let hidden truth appear."]}, {"id": "D7.3.20", "lines": ["What better gift than counsel from the wise?", "Say all you know and lift this from my eyes.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.21", "lines": ["He said, “Pure Shah, discerning and sincere,", "May my reply find favor in your ear."]}, {"id": "D7.3.22", "lines": ["A casket lies among your treasures, sealed", "By my own hand; command it be revealed.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.23", "lines": ["The Shah then told the treasurer, “Restore", "The thing that he entrusted you before."]}, {"id": "D7.3.24", "lines": ["Bring it, that we may see what lies inside,", "And cast this grief that burdens me aside.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.25", "lines": ["The treasurer brought forth the casket, sealed,", "And to the minister his charge did yield."]}, {"id": "D7.3.26", "lines": ["The Shah inquired, “What does this casket hide,", "And whose seal keeps it fastened on the side?”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.27", "lines": ["He said, “My blood is here, the parts I tore", "From their own roots, my manhood now no more."]}, {"id": "D7.3.28", "lines": ["You gave me Ardavan’s own daughter then,", "And charged me that she never rise again."]}, {"id": "D7.3.29", "lines": ["I spared her for the child she bore; my hand", "Was stayed by fear of God, who rules the land."]}, {"id": "D7.3.30", "lines": ["When your command arrived, I sought to save", "My honor, and my manhood freely gave,"]}, {"id": "D7.3.31", "lines": ["Lest anyone should stain my name with blame,", "Or drown me in the sea of tainted fame."]}, {"id": "D7.3.32", "lines": ["Your Shapur now is seven years of age,", "Yet fit to be your minister and sage."]}, {"id": "D7.3.33", "lines": ["No other king has such a noble heir;", "The moon alone can match his face so fair."]}, {"id": "D7.3.34", "lines": ["In love I named him Shapur; may the skies", "Rejoice to see your happy fortune rise."]}, {"id": "D7.3.35", "lines": ["His mother too is with him, safe and mild,", "And she has raised and taught the royal child.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.36", "lines": ["The world’s king marveled at the loyal man,", "And thoughts about the hidden boy began."]}, {"id": "D7.3.37", "lines": ["He said, “O man of clear and prudent mind,", "Whose heart with understanding is aligned,"]}, {"id": "D7.3.38", "lines": ["I shall not let such service lose its due;", "Much hardship you have borne to see this through."]}, {"id": "D7.3.39", "lines": ["Choose out one hundred boys his age and size,", "Alike in chest and limb before our eyes."]}, {"id": "D7.3.40", "lines": ["Let all be clothed alike from head to toe,", "With nothing more or less in what they show."]}, {"id": "D7.3.41", "lines": ["Send all the boys to play upon the ground,", "With polo sticks and balls to drive around."]}, {"id": "D7.3.42", "lines": ["When those fair youths are playing in my sight,", "My heart will turn toward him by nature’s right."]}, {"id": "D7.3.43", "lines": ["My heart will testify and make me know", "The son in whom my blood and lineage flow.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.44", "lines": ["At dawn the minister arranged the band", "Of boys upon the field at his command."]}, {"id": "D7.3.45", "lines": ["In dress, in stature, bearing, form, and grace,", "No eye could tell one youth from all the race."]}, {"id": "D7.3.46", "lines": ["The field seemed bright as on a festive day,", "With Shapur in the midst of all their play."]}, {"id": "D7.3.47", "lines": ["When Shapur struck the ball, his ardor grew;", "He strove with manly spirit to break through."]}, {"id": "D7.3.48", "lines": ["Ardeshir came with chosen men beside,", "To watch the children on his field so wide."]}, {"id": "D7.3.49", "lines": ["He heaved a heavy sigh within his breast,", "Then pointed where his heart found truth and rest."]}, {"id": "D7.3.50", "lines": ["He told the minister, “Look there and see:", "That youth resembles what I used to be.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.51", "lines": ["The counselor replied, “Your heart has known", "The son your blood and body call their own.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.52", "lines": ["Then Shah Ardeshir called a servant near:", "“O man of kindly heart and conscience clear,"]}, {"id": "D7.3.53", "lines": ["Join in their play with cheerful face, and see", "You drive the ball with your own stick to me."]}, {"id": "D7.3.54", "lines": ["The boy who comes among my horsemen here,", "As bold as any lion, free from fear,"]}, {"id": "D7.3.55", "lines": ["And takes the ball away before my face,", "Dauntless before the horsemen in this place,"]}, {"id": "D7.3.56", "lines": ["Will be my royal son, beyond all doubt,", "In blood and body, as the signs point out.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.57", "lines": ["The servant did the bidding of the king,", "And drove the ball before the mounted ring."]}, {"id": "D7.3.58", "lines": ["The boys, as swift as arrows, chased it hard,", "Until they neared the Shah across the yard."]}, {"id": "D7.3.59", "lines": ["They halted, though they longed to join the play;", "But Shapur charged ahead without delay."]}, {"id": "D7.3.60", "lines": ["He bore it off before the monarch’s face,", "Then gave it to the boys beyond that place."]}, {"id": "D7.3.61", "lines": ["The Shah’s heart joyed as when an old man’s frame", "Grows young again and kindles into flame."]}, {"id": "D7.3.62", "lines": ["The horsemen lifted Shapur from the ground,", "And passed him hand to hand among them round."]}, {"id": "D7.3.63", "lines": ["At last the King of kings embraced the boy,", "And blessed the Judge of all with tears of joy."]}, {"id": "D7.3.64", "lines": ["He kissed his head and eyes, his face, and said:", "“This wonder must be told, its tidings spread."]}, {"id": "D7.3.65", "lines": ["I never dreamed of this; I thought him dead,", "And never hoped to kiss his living head."]}, {"id": "D7.3.66", "lines": ["God gave me greater kingship, and a son", "To leave my memory when my days are done."]}, {"id": "D7.3.67", "lines": ["What God has willed no man can flee or shun,", "Though he should raise his head above the sun.”"]}, {"id": "D7.3.68", "lines": ["He called for gold and gems from all his treasure,", "And priceless rubies, heaped beyond all measure."]}, {"id": "D7.3.69", "lines": ["They poured the gold and jewels on the heir,", "And sifted musk and ambergris through air."]}, {"id": "D7.3.70", "lines": ["The coins concealed his head beneath their flow;", "No eye could see his face for gems below."]}, {"id": "D7.3.71", "lines": ["The Shah heaped gems upon his faithful guide,", "And gave a gold-adorned seat at his side."]}, {"id": "D7.3.72", "lines": ["He gave him wealth enough to furnish all", "His palace chambers and his spacious hall."]}, {"id": "D7.3.73", "lines": ["He bade the daughter of Ardavan go", "Back to the palace free from fear and woe."]}, {"id": "D7.3.74", "lines": ["He pardoned all the guilt that stained her name,", "And cleansed his moon of rust, her face of shame."]}, {"id": "D7.3.75", "lines": ["He summoned learned men into the town,", "To teach the boy the wisdom of renown:"]}, {"id": "D7.3.76", "lines": ["To write in Pahlavi, to sit the throne", "With all the royal bearing kings have shown;"]}, {"id": "D7.3.77", "lines": ["To wheel his horse in battle, firm and keen,", "And show the foe his spearpoint’s threatening sheen;"]}, {"id": "D7.3.78", "lines": ["To feast, drink wine, give gifts, and lead his men,", "And bear the toil when war returned again."]}, {"id": "D7.3.79", "lines": ["He changed the dies for coins of every mold,", "And struck them new in silver and in gold."]}, {"id": "D7.3.80", "lines": ["On one face Ardeshir’s own name was shown;", "The other bore his minister’s alone."]}, {"id": "D7.3.81", "lines": ["The minister’s good name was held in praise,", "A man of counsel, versed in this world’s ways."]}, {"id": "D7.3.82", "lines": ["Both names appeared on edicts through the land;", "With seal and signet, his was full command."]}, {"id": "D7.3.83", "lines": ["He gave the poor who earned their daily bread", "A treasure, that their hunger might be fed."]}, {"id": "D7.3.84", "lines": ["He chose a tract of bramble and of thorn,", "And from it was a thriving city born."]}, {"id": "D7.3.85", "lines": ["The name of Gund-e-Shapur still is known;", "No other name survives beside its own."]}, {"id": "D7.4.1", "lines": ["Shapur grew cypress-tall beside the king;", "They feared the harm an evil eye might bring."]}, {"id": "D7.4.2", "lines": ["He never left the Shah, but at his side", "Served as his trusted minister and guide."]}, {"id": "D7.4.3", "lines": ["The Shah found not a single day of peace,", "For enemies arose and would not cease."]}, {"id": "D7.4.4", "lines": ["When he had freed one province from its foes,", "Another rose to bring him deeper woes."]}, {"id": "D7.4.5", "lines": ["He said, “In public and in secret prayer,", "I ask the Maker, who sees everywhere,"]}, {"id": "D7.4.6", "lines": ["To grant me all the world, with foes subdued,", "That I may worship Him in gratitude.”"]}, {"id": "D7.4.7", "lines": ["His minister replied, “O King of grace,", "Whose wisdom shines upon this noble race,"]}, {"id": "D7.4.8", "lines": ["Dispatch an envoy to Hind’s sage, the chief", "Of sages, Kayd, whose knowledge brings relief."]}, {"id": "D7.4.9", "lines": ["He knows the lofty heavens and their course,", "The door to joy, the path to grief’s dark source."]}, {"id": "D7.4.10", "lines": ["He will foretell if all the seven climes", "Be yours without a rival in these times.”"]}, {"id": "D7.4.11", "lines": ["The Shah chose then a youth of ready wit,", "For such a charge both keen and finely fit."]}, {"id": "D7.4.12", "lines": ["With steeds and gold and silk of Chin, he sent", "The youth to bear the message the Shah meant."]}, {"id": "D7.4.13", "lines": ["He said, “Go tell the sage who reads the skies:", "‘O favored man, whose words are true and wise,"]}, {"id": "D7.4.14", "lines": ["When shall I rest from war and weary toil,", "And hold in peace the kingdom’s royal soil?"]}, {"id": "D7.4.15", "lines": ["If this shall never be, let labor cease;", "No more shall I spend treasure seeking peace.’”"]}, {"id": "D7.4.16", "lines": ["The envoy came to Kayd with gifts in hand,", "And offerings sent from Ardeshir’s own land."]}, {"id": "D7.4.17", "lines": ["He told the Shah’s whole message, word by word,", "And bared each secret trouble he had heard."]}, {"id": "D7.4.18", "lines": ["Kayd questioned him; concern upon him weighed,", "Then turned to all his learning for its aid."]}, {"id": "D7.4.19", "lines": ["He brought his astrolabe to read the skies,", "With Indian tables spread before his eyes."]}, {"id": "D7.4.20", "lines": ["He weighed what heaven’s turning might portend:", "Ease, profit, pain, and harm that it might send."]}, {"id": "D7.4.21", "lines": ["“I reckoned Iran’s fortune, gauged its hope,", "And with it read the Shah’s own horoscope."]}, {"id": "D7.4.22", "lines": ["If Ardeshir’s line joins with Mehrak’s own,", "The son of Nushzad, peace shall bless his throne."]}, {"id": "D7.4.23", "lines": ["Then shall the Shah know peace throughout his days,", "And send no armies down the distant ways."]}, {"id": "D7.4.24", "lines": ["His wealth shall grow, his hardships fade away;", "Let not the feud between these houses weigh."]}, {"id": "D7.4.25", "lines": ["So all Iran will answer his behest,", "And all his heart’s desires shall be possessed.”"]}, {"id": "D7.4.26", "lines": ["He gave the envoy gifts: “Let nothing stay", "Concealed of all the words I bid you say."]}, {"id": "D7.4.27", "lines": ["If he will heed, the lofty heavens will show", "The worth of all the counsel I bestow.”"]}, {"id": "D7.4.28", "lines": ["The envoy then returned to Ardeshir,", "And told him all that Kayd had made him hear."]}, {"id": "D7.4.29", "lines": ["When Ardeshir heard what the sage had said,", "His face grew yellow; pain within him spread."]}, {"id": "D7.4.30", "lines": ["He answered, “God forbid that I should see", "The offspring of that Mehrak joined to me."]}, {"id": "D7.4.31", "lines": ["To bring the enemy within my keep", "Would sow fresh war, and misery to reap."]}, {"id": "D7.4.32", "lines": ["Woe for my scattered treasure, all my care,", "The men dispatched, the toil I had to bear!"]}, {"id": "D7.4.33", "lines": ["Mehrak has but one daughter left, they say;", "No one has seen where she has hid away."]}, {"id": "D7.4.34", "lines": ["Let searchers ride to Rum and Chin, and scour", "Hind and Taraz, and bring her to my power."]}, {"id": "D7.4.35", "lines": ["Once found, she shall be burned; the dust shall weep", "And mourn her fate in lamentation deep.”"]}, {"id": "D7.4.36", "lines": ["He sent to Jahram horsemen, and beside", "A keen, vindictive tracker as their guide."]}, {"id": "D7.4.37", "lines": ["She fled from Mehrak’s house when word drew near,", "And found a hidden corner in her fear."]}, {"id": "D7.4.38", "lines": ["Within a village chieftain’s house she stayed;", "He held in honor the secluded maid."]}, {"id": "D7.4.39", "lines": ["She grew like some straight cypress in the glade,", "With wisdom in the beauty she displayed."]}, {"id": "D7.4.40", "lines": ["No equal in that country could be found;", "No cypress matched her height on all its ground."]}, {"id": "D7.5.1", "lines": ["Now hear of Mehrak’s daughter in my song,", "And sword-bearing Shapur, bold and strong."]}, {"id": "D7.5.2", "lines": ["A little time passed on; the royal star", "Grew bright and shed its radiance afar."]}, {"id": "D7.5.3", "lines": ["The Shah went out to hunt at dawn one day,", "With wise Shapur beside him on the way."]}, {"id": "D7.5.4", "lines": ["The horsemen ranged across the grassy plain,", "And drove the game away with spur and rein."]}, {"id": "D7.5.5", "lines": ["A spacious dwelling stood beneath the sky,", "With grove and hall and palace rising high."]}, {"id": "D7.5.6", "lines": ["Shapur rode to the village, where he found", "The chief’s great house and stepped down to the ground."]}, {"id": "D7.5.7", "lines": ["A pleasant garden lay within the place;", "The prince went in amid its verdant grace."]}, {"id": "D7.5.8", "lines": ["A moon-faced maiden, drawing from the well,", "Turned the great wheel; the bucket rose and fell."]}, {"id": "D7.5.9", "lines": ["And when she saw Shapur, she came to greet", "The prince with blessings, gracious, warm, and sweet."]}, {"id": "D7.5.10", "lines": ["“Be happy, sir, and joy be yours, I pray,", "And may your years be free from all decay."]}, {"id": "D7.5.11", "lines": ["Your courser thirsts; the village waters flow", "With brackish salt, as those who drink them know."]}, {"id": "D7.5.12", "lines": ["But this well’s water, cold and sweet, is clear;", "With your permission, I shall draw it here.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.13", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “My moon-faced maiden, why", "Should you be troubled? Let this task pass by."]}, {"id": "D7.5.14", "lines": ["I have attendants waiting; theirs the task", "To draw cold water, if I only ask.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.15", "lines": ["The maiden turned away, withdrew from view,", "And sat beside the stream that rippled through."]}, {"id": "D7.5.16", "lines": ["He bade a servant, “Bring the bucket here,", "And draw cold water from the well’s depths clear.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.17", "lines": ["The servant heard and ran to turn the wheel,", "And let the rope and heavy bucket reel."]}, {"id": "D7.5.18", "lines": ["The heavy bucket filled; the rope drew taut;", "The servant, straining at it, grew distraught."]}, {"id": "D7.5.19", "lines": ["Since all his strength could not bring up the weight,", "Shapur came grumbling at the servant’s state."]}, {"id": "D7.5.20", "lines": ["“You half a woman! Did she not command", "This rope and heavy bucket with her hand?"]}, {"id": "D7.5.21", "lines": ["She drew such quantities, yet now you cry", "For help, worn out, and cannot lift it high.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.22", "lines": ["He took the rope; what taxed the servant’s might", "Became an easy task, its burden light."]}, {"id": "D7.5.23", "lines": ["Discovering the weight the girl had raised,", "He spoke of her with wonder, and he praised:"]}, {"id": "D7.5.24", "lines": ["“A maiden who can lift a weight so grand", "Must come of Kayanian blood within this land.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.25", "lines": ["When he had drawn the water for his steed,", "The maiden came with calm and graceful speed."]}, {"id": "D7.5.26", "lines": ["“May you live happily while time shall last,", "And learn from wisdom till your days are past."]}, {"id": "D7.5.27", "lines": ["Shapur, King Ardeshir’s strong son, could make", "The water milk that from this well we take.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.28", "lines": ["He asked, “My moon-faced maid, how can you know", "That I am Shapur? What has told you so?”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.29", "lines": ["She answered him, “Full often have I heard", "Your truth and honor praised in every word."]}, {"id": "D7.5.30", "lines": ["‘His strength is like an elephant’s; his hand", "Gives like the Nile that pours across the land."]}, {"id": "D7.5.31", "lines": ["In height a cypress, with a frame of brass,", "Like Bahman in all things that come to pass.’”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.32", "lines": ["“O moon-faced girl,” said he, “tell what I ask,", "And do not hide your life behind a mask."]}, {"id": "D7.5.33", "lines": ["Declare your stock, for bearing, form and face,", "Betray the secret of a royal race.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.34", "lines": ["“I am the daughter of the chief,” she said;", "“From him my beauty and my strength are bred.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.35", "lines": ["“Before a king, no lie can shine as true;", "Such words,” Shapur replied, “will never do."]}, {"id": "D7.5.36", "lines": ["No farmer’s daughter bears such grace as you,", "Such moon-bright face and fragrance, bloom and hue.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.37", "lines": ["“O prince,” she said, “assure me I shall live,", "And promise me the safety you can give."]}, {"id": "D7.5.38", "lines": ["Safe from the anger of the King of kings,", "I shall recount the truth that memory brings.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.39", "lines": ["The prince replied, “Within our garden grows", "No plant of hatred toward the friends we chose."]}, {"id": "D7.5.40", "lines": ["So speak; fear neither me nor him who reigns,", "The just, renowned Shah over these domains.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.41", "lines": ["“I am the daughter of Mehrak,” she said,", "“Nushzad’s own son, whose child stands here in dread."]}, {"id": "D7.5.42", "lines": ["A pious man brought me, a child, to stay", "With this good chief, who shelters me today."]}, {"id": "D7.5.43", "lines": ["So now, for fear of Ardeshir the Great,", "I draw his water, serving in this state.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.44", "lines": ["Shapur took up his lodging in that place,", "The chief stood waiting for his word of grace."]}, {"id": "D7.5.45", "lines": ["“Give me this maid, with Heaven as witness true,", "To be my wife, the bond approved by you.”"]}, {"id": "D7.5.46", "lines": ["The village chief accorded his desire,", "With all the rites of those who worship fire."]}, {"id": "D7.6.1", "lines": ["In time, the cypress bore its fruit of grace,", "To bless the scion of the royal race."]}, {"id": "D7.6.2", "lines": ["He brought her from the chief’s house; there the prince", "Cherished her in his palace like fresh quince."]}, {"id": "D7.6.3", "lines": ["When nine months passed, that radiant lady bore", "A child who matched the beauty that she wore."]}, {"id": "D7.6.4", "lines": ["You would have thought Esfandiyar stood near,", "Or that famed horseman, mighty Ardeshir."]}, {"id": "D7.6.5", "lines": ["Shapur named him Hormizd; the boy stood tall,", "A cypress where the plants beneath were small."]}, {"id": "D7.6.6", "lines": ["Thus seven years went by; in all the sphere,", "The child had none to match him, none his peer."]}, {"id": "D7.6.7", "lines": ["They kept him hidden, far from every eye,", "And would not let him out where boys played by."]}, {"id": "D7.6.8", "lines": ["For seven days the King went hunting game,", "And wise Shapur went with him, bent on the same."]}, {"id": "D7.6.9", "lines": ["Hormizd slipped out unseen and ran away,", "Weary of lessons, longing now for play."]}, {"id": "D7.6.10", "lines": ["He ran to Ardeshir’s field, a bow in hand,", "With two shafts in the other, through the land."]}, {"id": "D7.6.11", "lines": ["He joined the children on the playing ground,", "Where polo sticks and balls were passed around."]}, {"id": "D7.6.12", "lines": ["The Shah returned from hunting with his train,", "And reached the playing field across the plain."]}, {"id": "D7.6.13", "lines": ["The chief of Mobadan, a learned sage,", "Came with the Shah to watch the boys engage."]}, {"id": "D7.6.14", "lines": ["A youth struck hard and sent the ball astray;", "It rolled toward the monarch on its way."]}, {"id": "D7.6.15", "lines": ["The boys all stopped; no child pursued the ball;", "They stood, their pleasure checked, unwilling all."]}, {"id": "D7.6.16", "lines": ["Hormizd ran from their midst, with flying feet,", "And rushed like wind the world’s great king to meet."]}, {"id": "D7.6.17", "lines": ["He took the ball before the old king’s eyes,", "Amid the soldiers’ shouts and startled cries."]}, {"id": "D7.6.18", "lines": ["Then from the boy a mighty shout rang clear,", "And filled with wonder glorious Ardeshir."]}, {"id": "D7.6.19", "lines": ["The Shah then asked the Mobad, “Whose is he?", "What noble branch has borne so bold a tree?”"]}, {"id": "D7.6.20", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, but none could name his race;", "They all kept silent in that crowded place."]}, {"id": "D7.6.21", "lines": ["The Shah commanded, “Bring him here to me;", "Lift him from earth, his face I wish to see.”"]}, {"id": "D7.6.22", "lines": ["The Mobad raised him from the dusty ground,", "And bore him where the King and court stood round."]}, {"id": "D7.6.23", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Noble child, before my face,", "Declare from whom you spring, your stock and race.”"]}, {"id": "D7.6.24", "lines": ["The boy spoke out aloud, his meaning clear:", "“My name and race must not be hidden here."]}, {"id": "D7.6.25", "lines": ["I am Shapur’s own son, and he is yours;", "Through Mehrak’s daughter too my blood endures.”"]}, {"id": "D7.6.26", "lines": ["The monarch stood in wonder at the word,", "Then smiled and pondered what his ears had heard."]}, {"id": "D7.6.27", "lines": ["He thought, “This thing was destined long ago;", "Why should I make my heart increase its woe?”"]}, {"id": "D7.6.28", "lines": ["He called Shapur before him to declare", "The truth, and questioned him with searching care."]}, {"id": "D7.6.29", "lines": ["Shapur was wan, his cheek was pale with dread;", "His heart grew sore at all the king had said."]}, {"id": "D7.6.30", "lines": ["But Ardeshir smiled and eased his fear:", "“Do not conceal the ancient secret here."]}, {"id": "D7.6.31", "lines": ["We need a son; whatever blood he brings,", "It is enough to know he springs from kings.”"]}, {"id": "D7.6.32", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “May joy be yours to know;", "Your face sustains the world with all its glow."]}, {"id": "D7.6.33", "lines": ["The boy is mine; Hormizd I named my son,", "A tulip in low grasses, bright as sun."]}, {"id": "D7.6.34", "lines": ["I hid him from the Shah while still a shoot,", "And waited for the tree to bear its fruit."]}, {"id": "D7.6.35", "lines": ["This child was born of Mehrak’s daughter; he", "Is mine; no one can raise a doubt in me.”"]}, {"id": "D7.6.36", "lines": ["Of water and the well he told the tale;", "His father listened to each full detail."]}, {"id": "D7.6.37", "lines": ["The King rejoiced and sought his palace door,", "His minister beside him as before."]}, {"id": "D7.6.38", "lines": ["He held the darling child in his embrace,", "And sought his palace throne with joyful face."]}, {"id": "D7.6.39", "lines": ["He had a golden throne prepared, and brought", "A collar and a crown of gold, rich-wrought."]}, {"id": "D7.6.40", "lines": ["They decked the little head, then from the store", "Brought gold and jewels, heaping more and more."]}, {"id": "D7.6.41", "lines": ["They poured until his head was lost to sight;", "His grandfather then raised him to the light."]}, {"id": "D7.6.42", "lines": ["He gave them all to poor men in their need,", "And more to sages, honoring wisdom’s seed."]}, {"id": "D7.6.43", "lines": ["He decked the fire-temple, rich arrayed,", "And halls of Nowruz and Sadeh with brocade."]}, {"id": "D7.6.44", "lines": ["He held a banquet with his chiefs; the throng", "Of minstrels filled the air with ringing song."]}, {"id": "D7.6.45", "lines": ["He spoke before the nobles gathered round,", "And all whose wisdom made their names renowned:"]}, {"id": "D7.6.46", "lines": ["“Let none dismiss what learned men foretell,", "Who read the stars and what their courses spell."]}, {"id": "D7.6.47", "lines": ["For Kayd of Hind foretold: ‘Your fortune’s light", "Will never bless your throne with full delight,"]}, {"id": "D7.6.48", "lines": ["Nor realm, nor crown, nor treasure, nor your men,", "Nor diadem, nor farr shall bless you then."]}, {"id": "D7.6.49", "lines": ["Until your house and famed Nushzad’s own line", "Are joined in blood, and both their stocks combine.’"]}, {"id": "D7.6.50", "lines": ["For eight long years the sky has blessed my way,", "And granted what I wished from day to day."]}, {"id": "D7.6.51", "lines": ["Since Hormizd came to bring my heart its ease,", "The world has given all that tends to please."]}, {"id": "D7.6.52", "lines": ["The seven climes are ordered by my hand;", "My heart has gained what fortune’s gifts command.”"]}, {"id": "D7.6.53", "lines": ["His officers now used one royal name:", "The King of kings, his title of acclaim."]}, {"id": "D7.7.1", "lines": ["Now hear how Ardeshir, through toil and care,", "Made justice flourish and the earth grow fair."]}, {"id": "D7.7.2", "lines": ["Learn too the wise decrees that he decreed,", "And weigh each counsel for your daily need."]}, {"id": "D7.7.3", "lines": ["He toiled, and made the rule of virtue stand,", "And spread both love and law by royal hand."]}, {"id": "D7.7.4", "lines": ["Desiring more recruits for his command,", "He sent his agents out through all the land."]}, {"id": "D7.7.5", "lines": ["They said, “Let none who has a son allow", "His youth to grow in ignorance from now."]}, {"id": "D7.7.6", "lines": ["Teach him the horse, the gorz, the bow in hand,", "And poplar shafts, as warriors understand."]}, {"id": "D7.7.7", "lines": ["When trained to strength and proven able too,", "A youth shall serve beneath the royal view.”"]}, {"id": "D7.7.8", "lines": ["From every realm the youths approached the court,", "Where muster-masters wrote the due report."]}, {"id": "D7.7.9", "lines": ["They wrote each name and gave each youth his place,", "With quarters for the men of martial grace."]}, {"id": "D7.7.10", "lines": ["When war breaks out, recruits like these shall go", "Beneath a Pahlevan against the foe."]}, {"id": "D7.7.11", "lines": ["A learned Mobad shall attend the train,", "To watch the men upon the battle plain."]}, {"id": "D7.7.12", "lines": ["One such shall watch a thousand in the fight,", "And judge what duties suit each warrior’s might."]}, {"id": "D7.7.13", "lines": ["He notes the coward and the man too frail,", "And those whose strength and courage do not fail."]}, {"id": "D7.7.14", "lines": ["He sends the record to the King of kings,", "With clear report of all such martial things."]}, {"id": "D7.7.15", "lines": ["The Shah, when he has read the message through,", "Will seat the messenger before his view."]}, {"id": "D7.7.16", "lines": ["From treasury’s best he gives a robe of state,", "To youths whose skill and valor prove them great."]}, {"id": "D7.7.17", "lines": ["But men unfit shall leave the fighting train,", "Nor fill the ranks upon the battle plain."]}, {"id": "D7.7.18", "lines": ["Thus grew his troops so vast beneath the sky,", "No star could see their bounds from up on high."]}, {"id": "D7.7.19", "lines": ["The men of counsel rose beneath his hand,", "Advanced by wisdom serving court and land."]}, {"id": "D7.7.20", "lines": ["A herald circled through the camp and cried,", "“You warriors of the Shah in fame and pride:"]}, {"id": "D7.7.21", "lines": ["Whoever seeks the king’s approving sight,", "And stains the earth with foemen’s blood in fight,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.22", "lines": ["Shall have from me a royal gift and name,", "And leave memorials bright with lasting fame.”"]}, {"id": "D7.7.23", "lines": ["He ruled the realm through disciplined array,", "A shepherd guiding armored men each day."]}, {"id": "D7.7.24", "lines": ["Now see how Ardeshir arranged the band", "Of scribes who served the business of the land."]}, {"id": "D7.7.25", "lines": ["He staffed his public offices with men", "Whose knowledge matched their mastery of the pen."]}, {"id": "D7.7.26", "lines": ["He weighed their script, the beauty of each line,", "And every dot within its fine design."]}, {"id": "D7.7.27", "lines": ["When skill was duly brought before his eyes,", "The Shah decreed the writer’s pay should rise."]}, {"id": "D7.7.28", "lines": ["The lesser scribes served officers instead,", "Their weaker wit and pen were elsewhere led."]}, {"id": "D7.7.29", "lines": ["Such men found no employment near the crown;", "None served there but the penmen of renown."]}, {"id": "D7.7.30", "lines": ["He knew the practiced scribes among his men,", "And praised the worthy masters of the pen:"]}, {"id": "D7.7.31", "lines": ["“A scribe who fills the treasury by his art,", "And lessens toil, sustains the kingdom’s heart."]}, {"id": "D7.7.32", "lines": ["He aids the state, the army, and the law,", "And speeds redress without delay or flaw."]}, {"id": "D7.7.33", "lines": ["The scribes are sinews of my soul and hand,", "And rule the secrets of my high command.”"]}, {"id": "D7.7.34", "lines": ["When governors went out, the Shah made plain:", "“Hold money vile throughout your term of reign."]}, {"id": "D7.7.35", "lines": ["Sell no man’s life for gold; this fleeting stay", "Is but a lodging all must leave one day."]}, {"id": "D7.7.36", "lines": ["Seek wisdom, righteousness, and sober view;", "Let greed and madness keep afar from you."]}, {"id": "D7.7.37", "lines": ["Take none of kith or kin into your train;", "The troops I gave will serve you in your reign."]}, {"id": "D7.7.38", "lines": ["Give monthly gifts to all the poor in need,", "But not to those who plan a hostile deed."]}, {"id": "D7.7.39", "lines": ["If justice makes your province prosper too,", "Then you will prosper by the good you do."]}, {"id": "D7.7.40", "lines": ["But if a poor man sleeps in fear of you,", "You sell your soul for silver’s passing hue.”"]}, {"id": "D7.7.41", "lines": ["All those who came to court for state affairs,", "Or sought redress beneath the royal stairs,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.42", "lines": ["Were met by trusted servants at the gate,", "Who asked how local governors ruled the state:"]}, {"id": "D7.7.43", "lines": ["“Are they just men, or greedy for reward?", "Do any wronged lie hidden in their ward?"]}, {"id": "D7.7.44", "lines": ["What learned men are there? Who faints from need?", "Whose age and counsel best may serve the deed?"]}, {"id": "D7.7.45", "lines": ["What elder, veteran, or pious man", "Can aid the realm as only wisdom can?”"]}, {"id": "D7.7.46", "lines": ["The King had said, “My toil and treasure’s store", "Should serve the learned; I desire no more."]}, {"id": "D7.7.47", "lines": ["What better thing than one both wise and old,", "Whose tested words are worthier than gold?"]}, {"id": "D7.7.48", "lines": ["Seek men of long experience, sound and true,", "And patient youths whose worth is proven too."]}, {"id": "D7.7.49", "lines": ["For when young men are wise and fit to learn,", "They take the old men’s places in their turn.”"]}, {"id": "D7.7.50", "lines": ["Whenever his whole army went to fight,", "He acted with sound judgment and foresight."]}, {"id": "D7.7.51", "lines": ["He chose a scribe, learned, watchful, wise, and fair,", "And sent him first as envoy with due care."]}, {"id": "D7.7.52", "lines": ["He sent a courteous, just appeal ahead,", "To ward off wrong before men’s blood was shed."]}, {"id": "D7.7.53", "lines": ["The envoy searched the foeman’s inward mind,", "To learn what purpose lay in it confined."]}, {"id": "D7.7.54", "lines": ["If that wise foe perceived his meaning right,", "And shrank from all the sorrows of the fight,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.55", "lines": ["He gained a robe, a grant, a charter too,", "A keepsake from the Shah to mark his due."]}, {"id": "D7.7.56", "lines": ["But if revenge possessed his heart instead,", "With blood within his liver, wrath his head,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.57", "lines": ["The Shah gave gifts throughout the army band,", "So no man felt neglected in the land."]}, {"id": "D7.7.58", "lines": ["He chose a Pahlevan alert and wise,", "Who sought no rest, with watchful, prudent eyes."]}, {"id": "D7.7.59", "lines": ["Beside him went a scribe of practiced skill,", "To check the troops and keep the realm from ill."]}, {"id": "D7.7.60", "lines": ["An elephant upheld the herald’s frame;", "For two farsangs his proclamation came."]}, {"id": "D7.7.61", "lines": ["He cried to all the warriors of the land:", "“O famous chiefs, renowned in war’s command,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.62", "lines": ["Protect the people all along your road;", "Let rich and poor rest safe in each abode."]}, {"id": "D7.7.63", "lines": ["Pay for provisions at each halting stage,", "And earn the thanks of farmer, youth, and sage."]}, {"id": "D7.7.64", "lines": ["Let none who worship God take others’ due,", "Or stain with unjust deeds the good they do."]}, {"id": "D7.7.65", "lines": ["Whoever shows the foe his back in fight", "Will see his fortune darkened into night."]}, {"id": "D7.7.66", "lines": ["His grave will stand nearby, or iron chain", "Will gall his neck and breast with bitter pain."]}, {"id": "D7.7.67", "lines": ["Or else, dismissed, on dust he shall be fed,", "And darkened dust shall be his only bed.”"]}, {"id": "D7.7.68", "lines": ["Then he would charge the captain of the men,", "“Be neither slack nor rash in danger then."]}, {"id": "D7.7.69", "lines": ["Keep elephants in front; push scouts ahead,", "Full four farsangs before the army’s tread."]}, {"id": "D7.7.70", "lines": ["When battle comes, move through the troops, and hail", "Each rank: ‘Remember who you are, nor quail."]}, {"id": "D7.7.71", "lines": ["Remember why you stand upon this field;", "Let no man’s courage break, retreat, or yield."]}, {"id": "D7.7.72", "lines": ["For every one of you I shall obtain", "A robe from Ardeshir for this campaign."]}, {"id": "D7.7.73", "lines": ["A hundred hostile horsemen against one", "Of ours are few, when battle is begun.’"]}, {"id": "D7.7.74", "lines": ["When any horsemen advance on either side,", "Let not the center stand deserted, wide."]}, {"id": "D7.7.75", "lines": ["However vast the army you command,", "An empty center puts it in death’s hand."]}, {"id": "D7.7.76", "lines": ["Set your left flank against the foeman’s right,", "So matched opposing forces meet in fight."]}, {"id": "D7.7.77", "lines": ["Set right against their left across the plain;", "Let every mind attend the baggage train."]}, {"id": "D7.7.78", "lines": ["No man within the center shall advance", "A single foot by haste or random chance."]}, {"id": "D7.7.79", "lines": ["But if the opposing center moves ahead,", "Then move your own where ordered ranks are spread."]}, {"id": "D7.7.80", "lines": ["When you have triumphed, shed no fleeing blood;", "Let mercy check the battle’s crimson flood."]}, {"id": "D7.7.81", "lines": ["If beaten foes ask quarter, grant it then;", "Be not revengeful toward defeated men."]}, {"id": "D7.7.82", "lines": ["When you observe the foe begin retreat,", "Seek not the spoil, nor leave your ordered seat."]}, {"id": "D7.7.83", "lines": ["Beware of ambush still on vale and plain;", "Do not deem all secure and quit your train."]}, {"id": "D7.7.84", "lines": ["But once assured, heed no distracting word;", "Stand by the judgment you have made and heard."]}, {"id": "D7.7.85", "lines": ["Bestow the spoil on those who sought the fray,", "And washed from hearts the love of life away."]}, {"id": "D7.7.86", "lines": ["Bring every captive taken on that day", "Before my court, without excuse or stay."]}, {"id": "D7.7.87", "lines": ["I shall build there where thorn and bramble grow", "A city where the captives all may go."]}, {"id": "D7.7.88", "lines": ["As you would live at peace, secure, and sound,", "Do not reject the counsel you have found."]}, {"id": "D7.7.89", "lines": ["And in your triumphs always bend to God,", "Because His guidance marks the path you trod.”"]}, {"id": "D7.7.90", "lines": ["When envoys came from Turks or Romans bold,", "Or noble peoples, this command was told:"]}, {"id": "D7.7.91", "lines": ["The border chiefs must know when envoys came,", "And let no negligence disgrace their name."]}, {"id": "D7.7.92", "lines": ["Along the road let lodgings be made ready,", "With care for every envoy, sure and steady."]}, {"id": "D7.7.93", "lines": ["Such was the charge appointed through the land:", "Food, robes, and carpets furnished at command."]}, {"id": "D7.7.94", "lines": ["Along the route they learned the envoy’s aim,", "His business, country, mission, rank, and name."]}, {"id": "D7.7.95", "lines": ["A noble camel bore a scribe, who pressed", "Ahead to tell the Shah the guest’s request."]}, {"id": "D7.7.96", "lines": ["The troops rode out to meet him on the road;", "The victor Shah, enthroned, his splendor showed."]}, {"id": "D7.7.97", "lines": ["On either side attendants took their stand,", "In robes with gold embroidered, bright and grand."]}, {"id": "D7.7.98", "lines": ["He called the envoy near, with honor treated,", "And by the royal throne he had him seated."]}, {"id": "D7.7.99", "lines": ["He asked his business, hidden, plain, his name,", "The good and bad, his standing and his fame,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.100", "lines": ["Of justice and injustice, what he knew,", "His land, its customs, king, and army too."]}, {"id": "D7.7.101", "lines": ["He led him to a palace set apart,", "And furnished it with all befitting art."]}, {"id": "D7.7.102", "lines": ["He held a feast with wine in royal state,", "And by the golden throne the envoy ate."]}, {"id": "D7.7.103", "lines": ["He took him hunting with a mighty train,", "A countless force of riders on the plain."]}, {"id": "D7.7.104", "lines": ["He sent him off with ceremonial care,", "And gave a royal robe for him to wear."]}, {"id": "D7.7.105", "lines": ["He sent wise Mobadan through every town,", "Men kind and shrewd, commissioned by the crown."]}, {"id": "D7.7.106", "lines": ["They raised new cities, spacious, sound, and bright,", "With royal treasure spent to build them right."]}, {"id": "D7.7.107", "lines": ["Each homeless man whom fortune left in need,", "Whose poverty gave grief a place to breed,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.108", "lines": ["Received both food and shelter at command;", "Thus grew the people subject to his hand."]}, {"id": "D7.7.109", "lines": ["His name is current now as it was then,", "In public speech and private hearts of men."]}, {"id": "D7.7.110", "lines": ["One monarch only in the world we find", "Who brings lost Ardeshir again to mind."]}, {"id": "D7.7.111", "lines": ["I bring his name to life in words that last,", "And call his memory from the distant past."]}, {"id": "D7.7.112", "lines": ["How wondrous was the justice of his reign!", "Prosperity became his rightful gain."]}, {"id": "D7.7.113", "lines": ["The Shah received reports from far and wide,", "His agents learned what every place might hide."]}, {"id": "D7.7.114", "lines": ["Whenever men of wealth fell in distress,", "His agents learned, and brought it for redress."]}, {"id": "D7.7.115", "lines": ["He raised their fallen fortunes, made them thrive,", "And caused their ruined markets to revive."]}, {"id": "D7.7.116", "lines": ["He gave them fertile lands and houses too,", "With slaves and servants for each household due."]}, {"id": "D7.7.117", "lines": ["He gave this aid in secret, keeping all", "Unknown to those within the city wall."]}, {"id": "D7.7.118", "lines": ["If talent showed in children of their line,", "He gave them teachers who could make it shine."]}, {"id": "D7.7.119", "lines": ["In every quarter halls of learning stood,", "Beside the fire-temples, strong and good."]}, {"id": "D7.7.120", "lines": ["He let none want, save one who chose to mask", "His poverty, and never came to ask."]}, {"id": "D7.7.121", "lines": ["He judged the subject and his own dear son,", "As though the two before him stood as one."]}, {"id": "D7.7.122", "lines": ["His justice made the whole world bloom and grow,", "And all his subjects’ hearts were set aglow."]}, {"id": "D7.7.123", "lines": ["When any king with justice is allied,", "In spite of time his footprints will abide."]}, {"id": "D7.7.124", "lines": ["Observe the policies of that brave chief,", "Whose every act brought suffering relief."]}, {"id": "D7.7.125", "lines": ["His watchful agents, wise in every land,", "Went through the world according to command."]}, {"id": "D7.7.126", "lines": ["Where any country bore too great a weight", "Of tax, through failing streams or ruined state,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.127", "lines": ["He lifted taxes from the ruined ground,", "And mercy reached the smallest holdings found."]}, {"id": "D7.7.128", "lines": ["If any landholder was losing all,", "The Shah supplied his need before the fall."]}, {"id": "D7.7.129", "lines": ["From treasury he gave them cattle too,", "And tools, to keep their holdings firm and true."]}, {"id": "D7.7.130", "lines": ["Now hear, O king, the sayings of this sage,", "And make the world as bright as in his age."]}, {"id": "D7.7.131", "lines": ["If you would live in peace and free from pain,", "And heap no wealth through wrongful loss or gain,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.132", "lines": ["Seek that your subjects live in quiet too,", "And win the praise that is your rightful due."]}, {"id": "D7.7.133", "lines": ["From Rum and Chin to Hind and Turan’s lands,", "The world grew Roman silk beneath his hands."]}, {"id": "D7.7.134", "lines": ["Both toll and tax flowed in without delay;", "No land defied him; all would now obey."]}, {"id": "D7.7.135", "lines": ["He called Iran’s nobility to meet,", "And gave each nobleman a royal seat."]}, {"id": "D7.7.136", "lines": ["Then rose and spoke with majesty and grace,", "And gave this royal counsel in that place:"]}, {"id": "D7.7.137", "lines": ["“O chieftains, wise in counsel, hear and learn", "How turning heaven deals, now kind, now stern."]}, {"id": "D7.7.138", "lines": ["It does not heed our justice, love, or hate,", "But raises whom it will, then shifts his fate."]}, {"id": "D7.7.139", "lines": ["It sets one man upon the height of all,", "Then gives him dust and sorrow at his fall."]}, {"id": "D7.7.140", "lines": ["His name alone survives beneath the sky;", "His toil lies buried where his ashes lie."]}, {"id": "D7.7.141", "lines": ["Then strive to leave a name of goodness here;", "No other lasting gain shall grace your bier."]}, {"id": "D7.7.142", "lines": ["Your lot, O Hormizd, rests in God’s decree;", "As He approves, so shall your portion be."]}, {"id": "D7.7.143", "lines": ["Commit yourself to God in all you do;", "He is Yazdan who makes good grow for you."]}, {"id": "D7.7.144", "lines": ["From every ill seek shelter in His might;", "Both good and bad lie in His ruling right."]}, {"id": "D7.7.145", "lines": ["He makes all hardship easy on your way,", "With brightened counsel and victorious day."]}, {"id": "D7.7.146", "lines": ["Judge by my life; consider and review", "The good and evil I have journeyed through."]}, {"id": "D7.7.147", "lines": ["When I turned to Yazdan, Lord over all,", "My heart rejoiced in crown and palace hall."]}, {"id": "D7.7.148", "lines": ["I rule the seven climes, for God deemed right", "That I should hold them by His sovereign might."]}, {"id": "D7.7.149", "lines": ["From Rum and Hind I take the tribute due;", "The world grew Roman silk beneath my view."]}, {"id": "D7.7.150", "lines": ["Thanks be to God, who gave me strength and star,", "And favor from the sun and Saturn far."]}, {"id": "D7.7.151", "lines": ["Who knows how rightly we should praise His name,", "Or serve Him as His greatness would proclaim?"]}, {"id": "D7.7.152", "lines": ["May He grant us the strength to serve His cause,", "And show His greatness and His sovereign laws."]}, {"id": "D7.7.153", "lines": ["And now I tell the just acts I intend,", "That joy and justice through the realm may blend."]}, {"id": "D7.7.154", "lines": ["Though one-tenth from communities is mine,", "As dehqan and the Mobad both define,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.155", "lines": ["I ask it not; I give it back to you,", "The tax on land and flocks that once was due."]}, {"id": "D7.7.156", "lines": ["If any surplus from your toil was gained,", "It is restored; let no man be constrained."]}, {"id": "D7.7.157", "lines": ["The tithes and taxes that I took before,", "Whatever came to me, be it less or more,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.158", "lines": ["I used them for your good throughout the land,", "And kept a countless army at command."]}, {"id": "D7.7.159", "lines": ["I sought your greatness, safety in your need,", "And to diminish Ahriman’s dark creed."]}, {"id": "D7.7.160", "lines": ["Hold fast to God, be diligent each day,", "And never cast His covenant away."]}, {"id": "D7.7.161", "lines": ["He gives, sustains, and feeds the low and high,", "The Maker of the overarching sky."]}, {"id": "D7.7.162", "lines": ["He shelters the oppressed beneath His care;", "Let no vain boast possess you anywhere."]}, {"id": "D7.7.163", "lines": ["Let no deceit take lodging in your breast;", "Descent will follow on the highest crest."]}, {"id": "D7.7.164", "lines": ["Where are the men whose crowns once brushed the clouds?", "Where are the lion-hunters and their crowds?"]}, {"id": "D7.7.165", "lines": ["They all lie couched on dust and brick below;", "Blessed is the man whose seeds of goodness grow."]}, {"id": "D7.7.166", "lines": ["Let all who dwell within my realm give ear,", "And take to heart the counsel spoken here."]}, {"id": "D7.7.167", "lines": ["Five paths I show, of greater worth to hold", "Than crowns and treasure, sovereignty and gold.”"]}, {"id": "D7.7.168", "lines": ["Now listen, all who serve, and hear again", "The words of Ardeshir to all his men."]}, {"id": "D7.7.169", "lines": ["“First, know that God exists, and keep His ways;", "With pure devotion offer Him your praise."]}, {"id": "D7.7.170", "lines": ["Second, despise not knowledge, whether you", "Are subject, lord, or servant proven true."]}, {"id": "D7.7.171", "lines": ["Third, words of wisdom never can grow old", "For learned minds, however often told."]}, {"id": "D7.7.172", "lines": ["Fourth, fear the guilt of sin, whose threats are more", "Than royal bonds or any prison door."]}, {"id": "D7.7.173", "lines": ["Fifth, know the slanderer, whatever his claim,", "Can never win the people’s good acclaim."]}, {"id": "D7.7.174", "lines": ["One further counsel: prize above your treasure,", "Your eyes, your life, this word beyond all measure."]}, {"id": "D7.7.175", "lines": ["Blessed is he whose deeds in public view", "Match those in private, constant, just, and true."]}, {"id": "D7.7.176", "lines": ["Soft-spoken, modest, wise, and cordial still,", "Let warm and kindly words express your will."]}, {"id": "D7.7.177", "lines": ["Who squanders silver for a boastful show,", "And spends to make his empty splendor grow,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.178", "lines": ["Finds none to thank him for that vain display;", "The man who knows God turns from such a way."]}, {"id": "D7.7.179", "lines": ["Hold to the middle course and keep your place;", "Pure judgment wins the wise man’s name and grace."]}, {"id": "D7.7.180", "lines": ["Five further paths will set your faith upright,", "And make the course of conduct clear and bright."]}, {"id": "D7.7.181", "lines": ["They bring the heart both comfort and delight,", "Like honey free of poison’s harmful bite."]}, {"id": "D7.7.182", "lines": ["First, do not overreach through greed or pain;", "Accept what God has set for loss or gain."]}, {"id": "D7.7.183", "lines": ["The man content is rich in everything,", "With fruit and blossoms like the days of spring."]}, {"id": "D7.7.184", "lines": ["Next, break the neck of greed; let no one hear", "Your secret words when women’s ears are near."]}, {"id": "D7.7.185", "lines": ["Third, do not court the path of war and strife,", "For toil and anguish follow through your life."]}, {"id": "D7.7.186", "lines": ["Fourth, bar all grief from entering your breast;", "Let future evils not disturb your rest."]}, {"id": "D7.7.187", "lines": ["Fifth, shun affairs that fall beyond your claim;", "They are no quarry for your thought or aim."]}, {"id": "D7.7.188", "lines": ["Hear now my counsel, weigh the words I say;", "Their profit shall attend you on your way."]}, {"id": "D7.7.189", "lines": ["Cease not from learning if your mind would burn;", "The mind is kindled by the truths you learn."]}, {"id": "D7.7.190", "lines": ["If you have children, teach them, and curtail", "Their play, so that their wisdom may prevail."]}, {"id": "D7.7.191", "lines": ["Attend my words and pains endured for you;", "I bear them so your judgment may stay true."]}, {"id": "D7.7.192", "lines": ["Let just and shrewd hearts not dissolve their ties;", "Preserve the fellowship that makes men wise."]}, {"id": "D7.7.193", "lines": ["Seek peace of heart through four enduring ways;", "Each brings you profit through the length of days."]}, {"id": "D7.7.194", "lines": ["First, fear and honor God with heart and mind,", "That He, your Help and Guide, may stand behind."]}, {"id": "D7.7.195", "lines": ["Next, act with justice toward yourself, and keep", "Your garment’s hem from stains that settle deep."]}, {"id": "D7.7.196", "lines": ["Take God’s commands to heart, and let me claim", "The love you bear your own dear living frame."]}, {"id": "D7.7.197", "lines": ["Third, make the right stand plain before all eyes;", "Cast fraud away, and ban deceit and lies."]}, {"id": "D7.7.198", "lines": ["Fourth, never from the Shah’s command depart,", "In open deed or secrets of your heart."]}, {"id": "D7.7.199", "lines": ["Love him as your own self, and in his sight", "Obey his word, and let your face grow bright."]}, {"id": "D7.7.200", "lines": ["Let loyalty possess your inmost soul;", "Keep covenant and let his word control."]}, {"id": "D7.7.201", "lines": ["Love him as life, if he is just and true,", "And stands a faithful guardian over you."]}, {"id": "D7.7.202", "lines": ["The Shah must bear the burdens of command,", "And seek the good and welfare of the land."]}, {"id": "D7.7.203", "lines": ["If he knows frontier lords or troops oppress", "The realm, and leaves the people in distress,"]}, {"id": "D7.7.204", "lines": ["Yet grants no justice, he is king no more,", "Nor worthy of the royal crown he wore."]}, {"id": "D7.7.205", "lines": ["He tears the sacred charter of command;", "The farr departs from his unrighteous hand."]}, {"id": "D7.7.206", "lines": ["An unjust king, a lion, stalks and preys", "Across the pasture where the helpless graze."]}, {"id": "D7.7.207", "lines": ["Who treats the Shah’s command with heedless scorn,", "And fails in diligent toil, shall live forlorn."]}, {"id": "D7.7.208", "lines": ["His life is pain and toil upon the road;", "He will not reach old age in this abode."]}, {"id": "D7.7.209", "lines": ["If goodness and true greatness are your need,", "They spring from neither pride nor miser’s greed."]}, {"id": "D7.7.210", "lines": ["May all my subjects’ hearts rejoice and flourish;", "May my just rule the whole world bless and nourish.”"]}, {"id": "D7.8.1", "lines": ["When Ardeshir the Shah was newly crowned,", "An elder came, for counsel long renowned."]}, {"id": "D7.8.2", "lines": ["Kharrad by name, in word and wisdom just,", "Bore justice in his soul, a sacred trust."]}, {"id": "D7.8.3", "lines": ["“O King, be blessed while time itself endures;", "May grace and joy through all your days be yours."]}, {"id": "D7.8.4", "lines": ["May fortune crown each victory you gain,", "May realm and throne and crown rejoice to reign."]}, {"id": "D7.8.5", "lines": ["Around your throne, before it and behind,", "Both birds and beasts stand in their ranks aligned."]}, {"id": "D7.8.6", "lines": ["Exalted over all who wear the crown,", "The whole world knows your greatness and renown."]}, {"id": "D7.8.7", "lines": ["Who can describe the justice of your throne?", "Justice and greatness are its founding stone."]}, {"id": "D7.8.8", "lines": ["We offer growing praise to God on high,", "And multiply our blessings as days fly."]}, {"id": "D7.8.9", "lines": ["We live beneath your reign, your servants true,", "And hope for every noble deed from you."]}, {"id": "D7.8.10", "lines": ["We long to see the beauty of your face,", "Your love and gracious words we would embrace."]}, {"id": "D7.8.11", "lines": ["May you be safe, for you have made us so;", "May we no breach of faith toward you show."]}, {"id": "D7.8.12", "lines": ["You barred the foes of Hind and distant Chin,", "For us and all our peers you stood between."]}, {"id": "D7.8.13", "lines": ["The rapine, war, and tumult disappear;", "The shouts of enemies no more we hear."]}, {"id": "D7.8.14", "lines": ["Remain forever happy in your reign,", "While wise Mobadan help your rule sustain."]}, {"id": "D7.8.15", "lines": ["No king can match your wisdom, clear and sound;", "No thought can pass your counsel’s utmost bound."]}, {"id": "D7.8.16", "lines": ["In Iran you have founded justice true,", "To make our children glad in what you do."]}, {"id": "D7.8.17", "lines": ["Your potent counsel makes old hearts renew", "The strength and joy that in their youth they knew."]}, {"id": "D7.8.18", "lines": ["The nobles gathered here rejoice in you,", "And in the justice of your actions too."]}, {"id": "D7.8.19", "lines": ["Your words have made our wisdom grow more bright;", "The world beholds your face and fills with light."]}, {"id": "D7.8.20", "lines": ["You are God’s robe of honor, richly sewn", "For fortune, crown, and girdle, and the throne."]}, {"id": "D7.8.21", "lines": ["Remain in joy, with love and justice here;", "The world recalls no king who is your peer."]}, {"id": "D7.8.22", "lines": ["Your might and farr keep safe the world’s wide space;", "Blessed those who find beneath your wings a place."]}, {"id": "D7.8.23", "lines": ["May you forever on your throne remain,", "The world obeying all that you ordain.”"]}, {"id": "D7.9.1", "lines": ["You who would seek the marrow words bestow,", "Detach your heart from this old house below."]}, {"id": "D7.9.2", "lines": ["How many like us has this dwelling known!", "It rests with none; none holds it as his own."]}, {"id": "D7.9.3", "lines": ["Be king or servant, you must pass away;", "This world endures beyond your fleeting stay."]}, {"id": "D7.9.4", "lines": ["In toil or crowned, whatever be your part,", "You must pack up and from it all depart."]}, {"id": "D7.9.5", "lines": ["The sky will melt you, though of iron mold,", "And turn from you when age has made you old."]}, {"id": "D7.9.6", "lines": ["When cypress stature bends toward the ground,", "And dark narcissus-eyes in tears are drowned,"]}, {"id": "D7.9.7", "lines": ["When rosy cheeks assume a saffron hue,", "And cheerful spirits lose their lightness too,"]}, {"id": "D7.9.8", "lines": ["The soul does not sleep though the body may;", "Your friend has gone; alone you must not stay."]}, {"id": "D7.9.9", "lines": ["Whether a monarch or of subject birth,", "You have no dwelling but the darkened earth."]}, {"id": "D7.9.10", "lines": ["Where are the chiefs once crowned in royal gold,", "The riders blessed with triumph, now grown cold?"]}, {"id": "D7.9.11", "lines": ["Where are the sages, men of martial fame,", "The princes every court would once acclaim?"]}, {"id": "D7.9.12", "lines": ["Their pillows now are brick and dust for rest;", "The one who sowed good deeds alone is blessed."]}, {"id": "D7.9.13", "lines": ["Great Ardeshir’s example still shines clear;", "Hear what I tell, and keep its lesson near."]}, {"id": "D7.10.1", "lines": ["At seventy-eight, the watchful monarch lay", "In sickness, as his strength ebbed day by day."]}, {"id": "D7.10.2", "lines": ["He knew that death had drawn its shadow near,", "And that his green leaf yellowed with the year."]}, {"id": "D7.10.3", "lines": ["He summoned Shapur, gave him counsel deep,", "A charge for royal memory to keep."]}, {"id": "D7.10.4", "lines": ["He said, “Remember all my words today;", "Let slander pass like gusts of wind away."]}, {"id": "D7.10.5", "lines": ["When you have heard my sayings, practice them;", "Know worth from worthlessness; the false condemn."]}, {"id": "D7.10.6", "lines": ["With justice as my sword I set things right,", "And honored noble men with royal light."]}, {"id": "D7.10.7", "lines": ["I made my lands and royal power expand,", "Yet royal toil had worn my life’s last strand."]}, {"id": "D7.10.8", "lines": ["Through toil and sweat my treasures multiplied;", "Through all that labor wealth was set aside."]}, {"id": "D7.10.9", "lines": ["Now treasure lies before you, ease and all;", "The turning sky brings both a rise and fall."]}, {"id": "D7.10.10", "lines": ["It wounds us now, then gives us timely aid;", "Its favors follow injuries it made."]}, {"id": "D7.10.11", "lines": ["Fortune is first a vicious, restive steed,", "That strikes in prosperous days with reckless speed."]}, {"id": "D7.10.12", "lines": ["Then like a trained horse, arching neck for you,", "It bears you gently when its will is true."]}, {"id": "D7.10.13", "lines": ["Know this, my son: this false and passing hall", "Holds terrors for the happiest of all."]}, {"id": "D7.10.14", "lines": ["Be mindful of yourself and wisdom’s claim,", "If you would flee ill days and lasting shame."]}, {"id": "D7.10.15", "lines": ["When kings bestow on Faith the honor due,", "Then Faith and kingship stand as brothers true."]}, {"id": "D7.10.16", "lines": ["The Faith and kingship each the other need;", "Apart, neither can flourish or succeed."]}, {"id": "D7.10.17", "lines": ["Like lengths of brocade woven thread by thread,", "Before the wise together they are spread."]}, {"id": "D7.10.18", "lines": ["The Faith requires the Shah; without its guide,", "No kingship earns the praise that should abide."]}, {"id": "D7.10.19", "lines": ["Each guards the other, sharing one abode;", "One cloak enfolds them on their common road."]}, {"id": "D7.10.20", "lines": ["Each needs the other; through their union bright", "They join in benefit and public right."]}, {"id": "D7.10.21", "lines": ["The man of Faith, with wisdom as his guide,", "Wins both the worlds through counsel at his side."]}, {"id": "D7.10.22", "lines": ["When kings stand guard to keep the Faith secure,", "Then Faith and kingship, brothers, both endure."]}, {"id": "D7.10.23", "lines": ["Whoever slanders kings whose rule is right", "Is not a man of Faith, despite his rite."]}, {"id": "D7.10.24", "lines": ["If one who claims the Faith should hate his king,", "No pious name can cover such a thing."]}, {"id": "D7.10.25", "lines": ["What truth has every eloquent sage shown?", "Faith is the marrow justice calls its own."]}, {"id": "D7.10.26", "lines": ["Three things bring trouble to the royal crown:", "The unjust king whose wrath bears justice down;"]}, {"id": "D7.10.27", "lines": ["Then raising worthless men above the skilled,", "Whose worth should have the seats of honor filled;"]}, {"id": "D7.10.28", "lines": ["And making treasure his companion dear,", "To strive for more gold coins from year to year."]}, {"id": "D7.10.29", "lines": ["Let bounty, justice, wisdom be your aim,", "And let no lie pass current in your name."]}, {"id": "D7.10.30", "lines": ["A lie will cast its shadow on your face,", "And dim the glory of your royal place."]}, {"id": "D7.10.31", "lines": ["Take care: do not make treasure your desire,", "For coins bring toil with all that they require."]}, {"id": "D7.10.32", "lines": ["If greed for treasure grips the great king’s breast,", "His subjects will be wearied and oppressed."]}, {"id": "D7.10.33", "lines": ["The landed nobles’ wealth is yours to keep,", "Although they bear the toil for what you reap."]}, {"id": "D7.10.34", "lines": ["Protect their wealth through all that they endure,", "And make the bough of labor’s fruit secure."]}, {"id": "D7.10.35", "lines": ["Strive hard to put your wrath and rage away,", "And overlook men’s faults from day to day."]}, {"id": "D7.10.36", "lines": ["If anger rules you, grief will be your wage;", "Through words of pardon, seek to cool that rage."]}, {"id": "D7.10.37", "lines": ["The pious call an angry monarch light,", "A foolish man whom rage has robbed of sight."]}, {"id": "D7.10.38", "lines": ["Ill-wishing does not suit a royal mind;", "Adorn your heart with all things good and kind."]}, {"id": "D7.10.39", "lines": ["If fear once finds a lodging in your heart,", "Suspicion clouds your judgment from the start."]}, {"id": "D7.10.40", "lines": ["Let giving never cause your heart distress;", "Know wealth’s true worth, and share it nonetheless."]}, {"id": "D7.10.41", "lines": ["The king whose bounty reaches to the sky", "Wins honor that no wealth alone can buy."]}, {"id": "D7.10.42", "lines": ["When trouble falls upon a monarch’s lot,", "Let wise Mobadan weigh the tangled knot."]}, {"id": "D7.10.43", "lines": ["Let him inquire of right and wrong within,", "And store the answer where his thoughts begin."]}, {"id": "D7.10.44", "lines": ["When you intend to hunt on open ground,", "Wine harms you more when hunting comes around."]}, {"id": "D7.10.45", "lines": ["Do not mix wine and feasting with the chase;", "Keep outdoor hunting in its proper place."]}, {"id": "D7.10.46", "lines": ["For wine brings heaviness upon the head;", "Remember what the elders long have said."]}, {"id": "D7.10.47", "lines": ["Abandon pleasure when your foes appear;", "Set all your thoughts upon the conflict near."]}, {"id": "D7.10.48", "lines": ["Spend freely, ready arms at your command;", "Call all the troops from every royal land."]}, {"id": "D7.10.49", "lines": ["Do not let present work await the dawn;", "Let no ill counsel near your throne be drawn."]}, {"id": "D7.10.50", "lines": ["Do not pry deep into the common heart;", "You gain but loss through such a searching art."]}, {"id": "D7.10.51", "lines": ["If common tongues bring evil news, give ear", "To no such slander; let it bring no tear."]}, {"id": "D7.10.52", "lines": ["They worship neither God nor kings they meet;", "They seek men’s heads by grasping at their feet."]}, {"id": "D7.10.53", "lines": ["Such is the nature of the common crowd;", "May wisdom be your guide when tongues grow loud."]}, {"id": "D7.10.54", "lines": ["Fear those who practice evil out of view;", "They make the wide world narrow round you too."]}, {"id": "D7.10.55", "lines": ["Tell no confidant the secrets you devise,", "For he has friends who carry hidden ties."]}, {"id": "D7.10.56", "lines": ["The words you thought were hidden from the light", "Will soon be spread abroad in open sight."]}, {"id": "D7.10.57", "lines": ["When secrets pass as gossip through the street,", "The wise lose patience hearing them repeat."]}, {"id": "D7.10.58", "lines": ["You will grow angry, and the calming sage", "Will call you light of head and soothe your rage."]}, {"id": "D7.10.59", "lines": ["Do not seek faults in others, lest they show", "Your own defects to all who wish to know."]}, {"id": "D7.10.60", "lines": ["If passion conquers reason, in the eyes", "Of sages, all your manly virtue dies."]}, {"id": "D7.10.61", "lines": ["The Shah who rules the world must have a mind", "Of wisdom, filled with goodwill toward mankind."]}, {"id": "D7.10.62", "lines": ["If any man is rash and insolent,", "And earns reproach through his arrogant bent,"]}, {"id": "D7.10.63", "lines": ["Let such a man have no place near to you,", "Though once among your counselors he grew."]}, {"id": "D7.10.64", "lines": ["When you are Shah, put wrath and vengeance by,", "If praise from pious souls would lift you high."]}, {"id": "D7.10.65", "lines": ["When passion takes its throne in wrathful might,", "No wisdom or devotion guides you right."]}, {"id": "D7.10.66", "lines": ["Speak not too much, nor feign a holy air;", "Let piety be true, not outward prayer."]}, {"id": "D7.10.67", "lines": ["Hear what men say; retain the words most wise,", "And keep what pleases you before your eyes."]}, {"id": "D7.10.68", "lines": ["Weigh well your words when sages gather near;", "Be kind to all, with heart and manner clear."]}, {"id": "D7.10.69", "lines": ["Do not look down on those who come in need;", "Seat no known foe where royal counsels lead."]}, {"id": "D7.10.70", "lines": ["Accept apologies for wrongs now past;", "Let no revenge prolong them to the last."]}, {"id": "D7.10.71", "lines": ["Be just to all and cherish all you can;", "A patient, bounteous heart ennobles man."]}, {"id": "D7.10.72", "lines": ["If any foe through fear should flatter you,", "Array your troops; let tabiras sound too."]}, {"id": "D7.10.73", "lines": ["Go forth while he is shrinking, weak in hand,", "And set your ordered power across the land."]}, {"id": "D7.10.74", "lines": ["But if he seeks both peace and rightful ways,", "And hides no mischief from your searching gaze,"]}, {"id": "D7.10.75", "lines": ["Then take his tribute and preserve his face;", "Seek no revenge when peace has found its place."]}, {"id": "D7.10.76", "lines": ["Adorn your heart with knowledge of true worth;", "Then practice what you know upon the earth."]}, {"id": "D7.10.77", "lines": ["You will be loved if bounty shapes your hand,", "And famed for wisdom, justice in your land."]}, {"id": "D7.10.78", "lines": ["Keep my last charge alive from day to day,", "Bequeath it to your son, then pass away."]}, {"id": "D7.10.79", "lines": ["I have fulfilled a father’s duty here;", "Let no harm touch the wealth you hold so dear."]}, {"id": "D7.10.80", "lines": ["Do not transgress the charge I leave today,", "Or twist the meaning of the words I say."]}, {"id": "D7.10.81", "lines": ["Remember me by doing what is right;", "Cast evil from your heart and from your sight."]}, {"id": "D7.10.82", "lines": ["Do not bring pain upon my spirit’s rest,", "Or burn this feeble body, long distressed."]}, {"id": "D7.10.83", "lines": ["Let no one suffer sorrow at your hand;", "Bring harm to none through wrongs that you command."]}, {"id": "D7.10.84", "lines": ["Now when five hundred years have passed away,", "Your dynasty will meet its closing day."]}, {"id": "D7.10.85", "lines": ["Your sons and others of your kin will turn", "From this my covenant, which they will spurn."]}, {"id": "D7.10.86", "lines": ["They will depart from counsel, law, and light,", "And scorn the warnings of the sages’ sight."]}, {"id": "D7.10.87", "lines": ["They will neglect the charge I leave behind,", "And grow unjust, oppressive, harsh, and blind."]}, {"id": "D7.10.88", "lines": ["They will oppress their subjects, scorn the good,", "Despising pious men where once they stood."]}, {"id": "D7.10.89", "lines": ["They will put on the robe of evil deed,", "And give themselves to Ahriman’s dark creed."]}, {"id": "D7.10.90", "lines": ["All we have bound they will unbind in shame,", "Defiling Faith we washed of every blame."]}, {"id": "D7.10.91", "lines": ["My charge and counsel emptied of their aim;", "My country ruined by the wrongs they frame."]}, {"id": "D7.10.92", "lines": ["I pray the Maker, who alone can know", "What lies concealed and what the world may show,"]}, {"id": "D7.10.93", "lines": ["To guard you from all evil and its blame,", "And grant you in this world a worthy name."]}, {"id": "D7.10.94", "lines": ["God’s blessing, and my own, on one upright,", "Whose wisdom’s warp and justice’s woof unite,"]}, {"id": "D7.10.95", "lines": ["Who keeps my charge, nor lets its honey turn", "To colocynth, whose bitter juices burn."]}, {"id": "D7.10.96", "lines": ["Forty years and two full months have passed by", "Since I assumed the crown beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D7.10.97", "lines": ["I hold six cities, all in pleasant climes,", "Well watered and remembered through all times."]}, {"id": "D7.10.98", "lines": ["Khorra-e-Ardeshir, the first, I styled;", "Its air is musk; like milk its streams run mild."]}, {"id": "D7.10.99", "lines": ["The second bears the name Ram Ardeshir;", "From there I came to Pars in royal gear."]}, {"id": "D7.10.100", "lines": ["The third is Ormozd-Ardeshir, whose air", "Could make an old man young, relieved of care."]}, {"id": "D7.10.101", "lines": ["It is the luster of Khuzestan’s plain,", "With people, water, trade in loss and gain."]}, {"id": "D7.10.102", "lines": ["Another, Birka-e-Ardeshir, is known", "For gardens, pools, and rose-beds overgrown."]}, {"id": "D7.10.103", "lines": ["And two in Maysan and by Farat’s flow,", "Where cattle, springs, and pastures richly grow."]}, {"id": "D7.10.104", "lines": ["Such are the firm foundations I have laid;", "Remember, when you hear me, what I made."]}, {"id": "D7.10.105", "lines": ["I have prepared my baggage for the grave;", "Entrust my bier, and take the throne I gave."]}, {"id": "D7.10.106", "lines": ["In this world I have borne both public care,", "And private toil that was my lot to bear."]}, {"id": "D7.10.107", "lines": ["Rejoice my soul with justice; rule with might,", "Be glad, victorious, crowned in royal light.”"]}, {"id": "D7.10.108", "lines": ["He spoke, and fortune darkened into night;", "Alas, that head, that crown, that throne so bright!"]}, {"id": "D7.10.109", "lines": ["The fashion of this joyful world is thus:", "It keeps its hidden purposes from us."]}, {"id": "D7.10.110", "lines": ["Blessed is he who never greatness knew,", "Nor bore the burdens that its owners do."]}, {"id": "D7.10.111", "lines": ["You strive for wealth, yet neither can remain:", "Both man and wealth must pass, despite your pain."]}, {"id": "D7.10.112", "lines": ["Dust in the end is wedded to us all;", "Our cheeks at last are covered by the pall."]}, {"id": "D7.10.113", "lines": ["Come, let us set our hands to doing good,", "And shun the path of evil, as we should."]}, {"id": "D7.10.114", "lines": ["How blessed is he who takes the cup of wine", "To toast the Shahs, those men of Faith divine."]}, {"id": "D7.10.115", "lines": ["He drinks his wine, then drinks another round,", "And falls asleep in joy, with peace profound."]}, {"id": "D7.11.1", "lines": ["Let praise ascend to Him, creation’s source,", "Who fashioned space and earth and time’s full course."]}, {"id": "D7.11.2", "lines": ["From Him beginning comes, from Him the end,", "From Him both passion and repose descend."]}, {"id": "D7.11.3", "lines": ["He made the starry heavens, earth, and time;", "All creatures are His own in every clime."]}, {"id": "D7.11.4", "lines": ["From worthless stubble to the throne of kings,", "His being finds its witness in all things."]}, {"id": "D7.11.5", "lines": ["Call none but Him the Maker; in His sight,", "The hidden and the seen alike are bright."]}, {"id": "D7.11.6", "lines": ["He showered blessings on Mohammad’s name,", "And on his comrades, bright with holy fame."]}, {"id": "D7.11.7", "lines": ["They all were holy men of self-command;", "No count can hold the sayings of that band."]}, {"id": "D7.11.8", "lines": ["Now let us lavish countless words in praise,", "To thank the Maker of the world and days."]}, {"id": "D7.11.9", "lines": ["Praise too the crown the King of kings displays,", "Whose throne makes brighter still the moon’s own rays."]}, {"id": "D7.11.10", "lines": ["Great Mahmud, graced by God, the King of kings,", "Is he from whom all bounty freely springs."]}, {"id": "D7.11.11", "lines": ["Brave, bounteous, just, by heaven’s favor blessed,", "He makes the age grow glad at his behest."]}, {"id": "D7.11.12", "lines": ["He rules in peace, with crown and treasure bright,", "And wields the axe and sword in every fight."]}, {"id": "D7.11.13", "lines": ["Our gracious king knows merit, truth, and worth,", "And thanks the God who raised him over earth."]}, {"id": "D7.11.14", "lines": ["Wise, fair, and eloquent, of kingly mold;", "In years a youth, in wisdom fully old."]}, {"id": "D7.11.15", "lines": ["His farr makes Jupiter release its rain;", "Beneath his shade we sport throughout his reign."]}, {"id": "D7.11.16", "lines": ["In battle he makes heaven echo loud;", "At feasts he scatters jewels through the crowd."]}, {"id": "D7.11.17", "lines": ["When angered, mountains melt beneath his way,", "And heaven shakes above the dust and clay."]}, {"id": "D7.11.18", "lines": ["His forebears reigned as monarchs in their day;", "The sun and moon join with him in their play."]}, {"id": "D7.11.19", "lines": ["May his renown endure while ages run,", "May joy increase until his days are done."]}, {"id": "D7.11.20", "lines": ["I head my tale with praise of his renown,", "His conduct, counsel, majesty, and crown."]}, {"id": "D7.11.21", "lines": ["Throughout the world his fame is widely known;", "May goodness guard his scepter and his throne."]}, {"id": "D7.11.22", "lines": ["His noble bearing lends the crown new light,", "And fortune arms him, shielding him from blight."]}, {"id": "D7.11.23", "lines": ["Throughout the world, all faithful hearts rejoice,", "And kings delight in him with common voice."]}, {"id": "D7.11.24", "lines": ["His glorious fortune makes the heavens glow;", "Earth forms the base that holds his throne below."]}, {"id": "D7.11.25", "lines": ["In war, a mighty elephant of dread;", "At feasts, a faithful sky with rain to shed."]}, {"id": "D7.11.26", "lines": ["At feasts, his bright designs make bounty flow;", "The waves of his great ocean rise and grow."]}, {"id": "D7.11.27", "lines": ["Earth’s monarchs are his quarry in the chase;", "Wild beasts and cattle find in peace their place."]}, {"id": "D7.11.28", "lines": ["In battle, when his gorz resounds in pride,", "It rends the lion’s heart, the leopard’s hide."]}, {"id": "D7.11.29", "lines": ["May his head flourish, justice fill his heart;", "May earth and his crowned head never part."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.1", "lines": ["To tell of Shapur’s kingship, pour the wine,", "And let the feast and royal discourse shine."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.2", "lines": ["When Shapur sat upon the throne of right,", "He wore the crown that filled the heart with light."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.3", "lines": ["The sages, Mobadan, and nobles came,", "And stood before the king of royal name."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.4", "lines": ["He spoke before them all with kingly air,", "The counselors of judgment, thought, and care:"]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.5", "lines": ["“I am the lawful son of Ardeshir;", "I learn, and speak the knowledge I hold dear."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.6", "lines": ["Attend my bidding, all who serve today,", "And never from my covenant turn away."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.7", "lines": ["Examine what I say with careful thought,", "And blame it if its wisdom proves ill-wrought."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.8", "lines": ["From all I know of fortune, good and ill,", "Two forms of greatness stand before me still."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.9", "lines": ["One is the Shah, the guardian of the land,", "The wealth of high and low is in his hand."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.10", "lines": ["If he is just and fortunate, it is plain", "That wisdom stands beside him to sustain."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.11", "lines": ["With wisdom as his guardian and his guide,", "Above dark clouds his head is raised in pride."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.12", "lines": ["His quest is justice, and the knowledge bright", "That fills his soul with comfort and delight."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.13", "lines": ["The other is the sage who strives to gain", "True wisdom, gathered through his toil and strain."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.14", "lines": ["The wise man knows that thanks to God are due;", "Blessed is the sage who knows his Maker true."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.15", "lines": ["The wise deserve to reign; however bright,", "Gold cannot fill the place of wisdom’s light."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.16", "lines": ["Contentment makes men rich; desire will choke", "The heart, and make of it a house of smoke."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.17", "lines": ["The more the greed, the more the cares accrue;", "Strive not to feed the greed that grows in you."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.18", "lines": ["So turn to peace and deeds of good report,", "And shun all men of sly and crooked sort."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.19", "lines": ["Who grasps at others’ goods reveals a mind", "Where little learning or good sense we find."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.20", "lines": ["More than the stars that fill the sky above", "Is all the measure of my boundless love."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.21", "lines": ["The customs of exalted Ardeshir", "I shall preserve in every province here."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.22", "lines": ["For landed nobles, this shall be the rate:", "One-thirtieth, for troops who guard the state."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.23", "lines": ["My cities thrive, my treasury stands secure;", "With courage, manhood, strength, I shall endure."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.24", "lines": ["We need no others’ goods to serve our ends;", "For wealth can make sworn enemies of friends."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.25", "lines": ["The road to us is open; those who plead", "For justice find our love attends their need."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.26", "lines": ["We shall send men who know affairs of state", "To watch the world with care and investigate."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.27", "lines": ["We ask no more than blessings for our days,", "Such as the pious Mobad gives in praise.”"]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.28", "lines": ["Then high and low rose up before the throne,", "And made their gracious words of homage known."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.29", "lines": ["They blessed Shapur with prayers of bright renown;", "They scattered emeralds on his shining crown."]}, {"id": "D7.12.1.30", "lines": ["His people all rejoiced beneath his hand,", "As Ardeshir’s ways flourished through the land."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.1", "lines": ["Then tidings spread: “The King of kings is dead;", "His throne is empty, all its glory fled."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.2", "lines": ["Wise Ardeshir has died and handed down", "His throne to Shapur, now to wear the crown.”"]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.3", "lines": ["The battle cry arose in every land,", "From Rum to Kaydafa’s assembled band."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.4", "lines": ["The news reached Shapur; he prepared his might,", "With troops, flags, tabiras arrayed for fight."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.5", "lines": ["Toward Palavina marched his army light,", "With no slow baggage train to check its flight."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.6", "lines": ["From Kaydafa an army marched in dust,", "And dimmed the sun beneath its onward thrust."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.7", "lines": ["From Palavina came another band,", "Led by a Roman chief of high command."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.8", "lines": ["Baranush was that noble rider’s name,", "Proud in his bearing, with his soul aflame."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.9", "lines": ["Among the Caesars, honored for his fame,", "He cast the kamand with a master’s aim."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.10", "lines": ["As tabiras from both sides roared for fight,", "From Rum’s own center came a warrior bright;"]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.11", "lines": ["From Iran came Garshasp, the Lion, bold,", "A chieftain famed in battles manifold."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.12", "lines": ["The tabiras and shouts began to roar;", "Bold Shapur rose within the army’s core."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.13", "lines": ["At karnay and Indian bell, the heavens swayed;", "The moon was shaken by the din they made."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.14", "lines": ["The tabiras on elephants were bound;", "Their roar rose up two mil above the ground."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.15", "lines": ["The earth was shaking, dust rose ever higher;", "The spears of battle glittered bright as fire."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.16", "lines": ["A wise observer gazed upon the fight:", "“The clouds are raining stars!” he cried outright."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.17", "lines": ["There in the center, Baranush was caught,", "His heart consumed by grief at what fate brought."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.18", "lines": ["Of Romans, three full thousand men were slain", "At Palavina on the reddened plain."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.19", "lines": ["And twice eight hundred more were prisoners made,", "While grief upon those warriors’ hearts was laid."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.20", "lines": ["Then Caesar sent a well-instructed man,", "To speak to Shapur with a peaceful plan:"]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.21", "lines": ["“How much more blood will you pour out for gold?", "What answer to the Judge, when deeds are told?"]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.22", "lines": ["When questioned on the final judgment day,", "What plea before the Maker will you lay?"]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.23", "lines": ["I shall send tribute as I did before;", "Do not increase our sorrow any more."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.24", "lines": ["With tribute, I submit to your command,", "And send my kin as pledges to your land."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.25", "lines": ["If you withdraw from Palavina’s wall,", "I shall send all the wealth for which you call.”"]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.26", "lines": ["Shapur remained until the tribute came,", "Ten ox-hide bags as payment for his claim."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.27", "lines": ["A thousand Roman slaves and servants too,", "With countless rich brocades, were sent as due."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.28", "lines": ["A week in Palavina Shapur stayed,", "Then went to Ahvaz, with the tribute paid."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.29", "lines": ["He built a city, Shapur Gird by name;", "They say his justice graced it with its fame."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.30", "lines": ["A year he labored on the town, and poured", "Great sums into its walls from his own hoard."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.31", "lines": ["In Pars he built a city fair and great,", "A thriving place, of profit to the state."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.32", "lines": ["This region lies in Khuzestan; its road", "Is free to prince and peasant with his load."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.33", "lines": ["At Nishapur, the ancient fortress rose;", "The day of Ard saw all its labors close."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.34", "lines": ["He took Baranush with him on each ride,", "And listened to the counsel he supplied."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.35", "lines": ["At Shushtar flowed a river broad and deep,", "So fierce no fish could cross its foaming sweep."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.36", "lines": ["He said, “If building is your learned art,", "Then bridge this river; let your work now start."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.37", "lines": ["For we depart, but this work still shall stand,", "A lasting work of skill within the land."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.38", "lines": ["A thousand cubits long; ask what you need,", "Use all my treasure for this royal deed."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.39", "lines": ["Bring Roman scholars, skilled and tried and true,", "To help you in the work you have to do."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.40", "lines": ["When this is finished, hasten home to rest,", "And in your own house be your own glad guest."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.41", "lines": ["Then live in joy and safety in your land,", "Far from all ill and from Ahriman’s hand.”"]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.42", "lines": ["Baranush set to work to build each span;", "In three full years he finished all his plan."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.43", "lines": ["From Shushtar, with the work complete, he turned", "And hurried toward the home for which he yearned."]}, {"id": "D7.12.2.44", "lines": ["Shapur was just, in counsel wise and sure,", "His star exalted and his throne secure."]}, {"id": "D7.12.3.1", "lines": ["When thirty years and two months had passed by,", "His royal farr dispersed beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D7.12.3.2", "lines": ["He called Hormizd to stand before his sight,", "And said, “My face has lost its color bright."]}, {"id": "D7.12.3.3", "lines": ["Be watchful when the crown is on your brow;", "Make justice for the world your lasting vow."]}, {"id": "D7.12.3.4", "lines": ["Put no great hope in kingship’s fleeting gain;", "Read constantly the book of Jamshid’s reign;"]}, {"id": "D7.12.3.5", "lines": ["Do only justice in the world below;", "Shield lowly men; on great men farr bestow."]}, {"id": "D7.12.3.6", "lines": ["Take little pride in gold; give freely still,", "Be just, and let good fortune crown your will."]}, {"id": "D7.12.3.7", "lines": ["Raise no loud shout at those who do no wrong,", "If you would have good fortune last you long."]}, {"id": "D7.12.3.8", "lines": ["Keep all my counsel rooted in your heart,", "As I kept Ardeshir’s charge from the start.”"]}, {"id": "D7.12.3.9", "lines": ["He spoke; his face grew pale, its color fled,", "And anguish filled the young man’s heart with dread."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.1", "lines": ["Now let my tale adorn Hormizd’s renown,", "And shine like moonlight on his throne and crown."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.2", "lines": ["His reign was free from fault and free from blame;", "Its only flaw: how soon its ending came."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.3", "lines": ["When mighty Shah Hormizd assumed his seat,", "Both wolf and lamb drank from one cistern sweet."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.4", "lines": ["He spoke before the sages, wise in thought,", "And veteran chiefs who many wars had fought:"]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.5", "lines": ["“Since God, who gives all good, has blessed my name,", "And granted me the crown and royal claim,"]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.6", "lines": ["I shall pursue the just and rightful way;", "Blessed he who keeps his father’s words each day."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.7", "lines": ["Through kindness I would win your friendship here,", "And share the secrets that you hold most dear."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.8", "lines": ["The headstrong man, who will not heed or hear,", "Finds little favor where the great appear."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.9", "lines": ["The man who lets his quarrels rule his life", "Finds need renewed each year, the child of strife."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.10", "lines": ["For envy is the sword the foolish bear;", "And fortune laughs at them in their despair."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.11", "lines": ["Who feels ashamed of work will hardship know;", "His life grows straitened, and his bread runs low."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.12", "lines": ["Avoid the base of mind, whose hearts give greed", "An open door to enter and to feed."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.13", "lines": ["Pass not through portals where no knowledge lives;", "Seek out the wisdom that good counsel gives."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.14", "lines": ["Let prudent judgment flourish in your sense,", "And turn your hearts from every dark offense."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.15", "lines": ["Wisdom is water; knowledge is the ground;", "Know that the two must be together bound."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.16", "lines": ["No wonder if the heart of any king", "Grows dark when love no longer has its spring."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.17", "lines": ["May all my subjects worship God and thrive,", "May joy within their hearts remain alive."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.18", "lines": ["May they find favor in the Maker’s sight,", "With wisdom’s aid in secret and in light."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.19", "lines": ["When sage and pious man in converse meet,", "And speak about the king upon his seat,"]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.20", "lines": ["Let every word be weighed, and then be told;", "For noble speech will never grow too old."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.21", "lines": ["Speak nothing but good words; let none who speak", "In malice find the hearing that they seek."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.22", "lines": ["The great king’s heart will see what you conceal;", "His ear will hear the words your lips reveal."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.23", "lines": ["For walls have ears, as every sage has said;", "So guard the living words your tongue has spread.”"]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.24", "lines": ["The whole assembly blessed the noble king,", "His clear heart and pure faith made praises ring."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.25", "lines": ["They broke up glad beneath that cypress shade,", "Where all his royal brightness stood displayed."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.26", "lines": ["That wise Shah kept the precepts Shapur taught,", "The son of Ardeshir in word and thought."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.27", "lines": ["The world rejoiced in him; how good are kings", "When justice rules the work their bounty brings."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.28", "lines": ["He ruled with modesty and justice rare,", "And time passed on beneath his watchful care."]}, {"id": "D7.13.1.29", "lines": ["Black musk gave way to camphor on his head,", "Both rose and Judas-bloom lay dry and dead."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.1", "lines": ["When Hormizd knew that death could not be fled,", "In streams of blood his bitter tears were shed."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.2", "lines": ["He had the carpet spread within his hall,", "And Bahram came in answer to the call."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.3", "lines": ["He said, “My son, of pure and noble birth,", "Through courage and through knowledge prove your worth."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.4", "lines": ["Now weakness settles through my weary frame,", "And cheek and hair in color grow the same."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.5", "lines": ["The straight-stemmed cypress bends beneath time’s blow,", "The rose takes on the quince’s yellow glow."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.6", "lines": ["When comes the hour for you to rule the land,", "Be wise, and keep oppression from your hand."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.7", "lines": ["Turn not from those who call to you for right,", "And pardon no oppressor in your sight."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.8", "lines": ["Reject all falsehood, if you would make bright", "Your throne and realm with justice and with light."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.9", "lines": ["Let wisdom be your soul, let modest grace", "Be minister; let gentle speech have place."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.10", "lines": ["May God, victorious, lend His aid to you;", "Your subjects’ hearts be quarry you pursue."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.11", "lines": ["Abandon rancor; keep desire at bay,", "May God not let such passion rule your way;"]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.12", "lines": ["Keep slanderers and foolish men away,", "And schemers too must find no place to stay."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.13", "lines": ["The ignorant will bring you grief and pain;", "From heeding those who lack all sense refrain."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.14", "lines": ["The shameless man whose tongue runs on and on", "Will find respect from all his fellows gone."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.15", "lines": ["Let wisdom keep your anger in control;", "Show gentleness toward a temperate soul."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.16", "lines": ["Beware of greed, for greed gives birth to wrath,", "And fear and need will follow in its path."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.17", "lines": ["Practice forbearance, uprightness of heart,", "And let all fraud and falsehood stand apart."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.18", "lines": ["Shun evil fame; the man whose name is stained", "Will find the world’s delights are never gained."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.19", "lines": ["No wise man leaves the path that wisdom taught.", "Haste brings remorse for what its rush has wrought."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.20", "lines": ["But patience brings the rightful course to light;", "Hold fast to virtue; keep its path in sight."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.21", "lines": ["The patient keep their anger in command,", "And cease to crave what lies beyond their hand."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.22", "lines": ["But since the bold may think forbearance weak,", "When pushed too far, a wiser balance seek."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.23", "lines": ["The man who holds the throne must let his mind", "Between the two extremes a passage find."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.24", "lines": ["Let neither haste nor slackness hold control;", "Let wisdom be the guide that leads your soul."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.25", "lines": ["Give slanderers no praise or place with you,", "Nor honor those who seek out faults to view."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.26", "lines": ["Seek not a foe’s affection or acclaim,", "Though he may hail you by your royal name."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.27", "lines": ["His tree bears colocynth, though green its spread;", "Though you may grasp his feet, he seeks your head."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.28", "lines": ["Be not deceived when fortune lifts you high,", "Nor when your fortunes in the lowlands lie."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.29", "lines": ["Fortune is harsh to those whose hearts are vile;", "Be not malignant, false in speech or smile."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.30", "lines": ["The noble gatherings scorn the faithless chief", "Who breaks his covenant and harvests grief."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.31", "lines": ["Take hold of wisdom; let it grace your mind,", "And keep your speech and deeds by it confined."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.32", "lines": ["It graces crown, wealth, troops in their array,", "Reveals how sun and moon pursue their way."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.33", "lines": ["Do not pursue mere wealth or passing mirth,", "For this brief house will cast you back to earth."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.34", "lines": ["Consult the wise alone; let custom stand,", "The ways the former Shahs gave to the land."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.35", "lines": ["With ordered troops make those who wish you ill", "Grow fearful; look both ways with thoughtful skill."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.36", "lines": ["He who will flatter worthless men for gain", "Bestows the praise his own desires ordain."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.37", "lines": ["He seeks your fall through words that he will say;", "Let no such flatterer beside you stay."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.38", "lines": ["The man who has no use for praise, whose mind", "Rejects its worth, count less than humankind."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.39", "lines": ["For God desires praise; reproachers find", "He brings their hearts distress of every kind."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.40", "lines": ["Who shuts his eyes to faults and keeps control,", "And swallows wrath with ease within his soul,"]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.41", "lines": ["Will prosper more with every passing day;", "Haste fills the heart with blood and brings dismay."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.42", "lines": ["Whoever seeks to fight the mighty sea", "Shows by that wish how foolish men can be."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.43", "lines": ["Slight not my sayings; make your heart a bow,", "Your tongue the arrow wisdom bids you throw."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.44", "lines": ["Expand your chest, your arm held straight and true;", "Then set whatever mark appeals to you."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.45", "lines": ["Let heart and tongue conform to wisdom still;", "Then speak, in that accord, of what you will."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.46", "lines": ["The man of understanding, sound of mind,", "Has worthy words and counsel well designed."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.47", "lines": ["When with your counselors you speak apart,", "Let no assembled crowd take any part."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.48", "lines": ["If long experience guides the thoughts you weigh,", "Your fortune shall increase from day to day."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.49", "lines": ["Your soul shall grow more watchful than your foe;", "Your heart and brain and counsel stronger grow."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.50", "lines": ["The passion-led will prosper not, but fail;", "Their counsels find no course that can prevail."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.51", "lines": ["If you greet friends with welcome and delight,", "Their joy will grow, their pleasure gain new height."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.52", "lines": ["Let furrows mark your brow as foes draw near;", "Make those who wish you ill grow pale with fear."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.53", "lines": ["Give to the worthy all you wish to share;", "Your treasure is for those deserving care."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.54", "lines": ["Keep heart and soul from envy; from it flow", "Hot tears of blood, the bitter streams of woe."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.55", "lines": ["The upright scorn the king whom envy gnaws;", "They blame the Shah who feeds its hungry jaws.”"]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.56", "lines": ["A noble scribe recorded all he heard;", "The minister received the written word."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.57", "lines": ["The king sighed coldly, breathing out his grief;", "His ruby cheeks turned yellow as a leaf."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.58", "lines": ["When once-bright cheeks grew yellow in his sight,", "For Bahram all the world was robbed of light."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.59", "lines": ["For forty days he mourned, his spirit bowed;", "Dust on the idle throne lay like a shroud."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.60", "lines": ["So heaven turns above the world below,", "Now full of anguish, now with love aglow."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.61", "lines": ["If you are wise, do not call heaven your friend;", "It tears your skin when chance will serve its end."]}, {"id": "D7.13.2.62", "lines": ["Night falls on Ormozd, in the month of Dey;", "Set speech aside; let wine conclude the day."]}, {"id": "D7.14.1", "lines": ["Now sing of Bahram, crowned in royal state,", "Whose reign was brief, so swift the turns of fate."]}, {"id": "D7.14.2", "lines": ["When Bahram sat upon the throne of gold,", "His heart still seethed with grief he could not hold."]}, {"id": "D7.14.3", "lines": ["Three years, three months, three days his reign would last;", "In gladness on the throne those days were passed."]}, {"id": "D7.14.4", "lines": ["The chiefs of Iran came before the throne,", "Their belts girt fast, their loyal service shown."]}, {"id": "D7.14.5", "lines": ["They called God’s blessing down upon his head:", "“Live while the royal throne endures,” they said."]}, {"id": "D7.14.6", "lines": ["“The Kayan crown befits the head you raise;", "Your fathers held the kingship in their days."]}, {"id": "D7.14.7", "lines": ["May all your foes grow pale before your might,", "And may your soul put grief for death to flight.”"]}, {"id": "D7.14.8", "lines": ["He answered, “Chiefs and nobles of the land,", "And champions who lead the mounted band,"]}, {"id": "D7.14.9", "lines": ["Let landed nobles, loyal to the throne,", "And royal servants make no wrong their own."]}, {"id": "D7.14.10", "lines": ["Behold this restless dome that wheels above,", "Blind to the nurtured child and parents’ love."]}, {"id": "D7.14.11", "lines": ["Bind passion’s hands and cast its words aside;", "Let not its counsel in your breast abide."]}, {"id": "D7.14.12", "lines": ["It roots men out in shame; its cruel hand", "Plucks them like birds left bare at its command."]}, {"id": "D7.14.13", "lines": ["Whoever keeps himself from evil deed,", "And guards his body from its taint, is freed"]}, {"id": "D7.14.14", "lines": ["To live in joy; when comes his final breath,", "His heart will feel no anguish at his death."]}, {"id": "D7.14.15", "lines": ["The Shah should guard the wealth within the land,", "And cherish pious people with his hand."]}, {"id": "D7.14.16", "lines": ["The king must shelter Faith; let it be known", "That Faith crowns him who sits upon the throne."]}, {"id": "D7.14.17", "lines": ["Without that Faith, no kingship can remain,", "Though yet another crown he may obtain."]}, {"id": "D7.14.18", "lines": ["Blessed is he who masters wrath with mind,", "And walks the earth with conduct just and kind."]}, {"id": "D7.14.19", "lines": ["In want, be glad, and still to bounty spurred;", "May no realm lack the sage whose voice is heard."]}, {"id": "D7.14.20", "lines": ["The sage will never trample on a foe", "Whom he has power to crush and overthrow."]}, {"id": "D7.14.21", "lines": ["Pass not through life in ignorance; instead,", "Let knowledge be the path on which you tread."]}, {"id": "D7.14.22", "lines": ["Let those who seek renown reject all strife;", "Keep clear of it throughout your mortal life."]}, {"id": "D7.14.23", "lines": ["Know nobles, troops, and kings who idle lie", "Will lose their proper road beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D7.14.24", "lines": ["The idle sleep, then wake to deep remorse;", "When roused, they grieve for their neglected course."]}, {"id": "D7.14.25", "lines": ["Fair words with evil deeds will never earn", "The praise or Paradise for which you yearn."]}, {"id": "D7.14.26", "lines": ["Speak truth and do good deeds, and never tear", "The hearts of worthy people everywhere."]}, {"id": "D7.14.27", "lines": ["I hold great treasure, majesty, and might,", "With many dinars and a king’s full right."]}, {"id": "D7.14.28", "lines": ["Enjoy your own; whoever has no store,", "Through my great treasure need be poor no more."]}, {"id": "D7.14.29", "lines": ["My purse is open; let no need endure,", "Its wealth stands ready to sustain the poor.”"]}, {"id": "D7.14.30", "lines": ["Not many days had passed before the shears", "Drew near the crowned head to end its years."]}, {"id": "D7.14.31", "lines": ["The Shah possessed a son, his heart’s delight,", "Bahram, his namesake, heir to royal right."]}, {"id": "D7.14.32", "lines": ["He brought his son to sit below the throne,", "And said, “Green branch that from my tree has grown,"]}, {"id": "D7.14.33", "lines": ["Not long have I enjoyed the crown I wear;", "May fortune bless the years that are your share."]}, {"id": "D7.14.34", "lines": ["From crown and throne no joy was mine to reap;", "May fortune grant you blessings rich and deep."]}, {"id": "D7.14.35", "lines": ["Sing, flourish, let your laughter ring out long;", "Let peace and gladness fill your life with song."]}, {"id": "D7.14.36", "lines": ["So walk that when the Great Account is read,", "You face your Maker free from shame and dread."]}, {"id": "D7.14.37", "lines": ["The world was made to feed our daily need,", "And not to heap up more and more through greed."]}, {"id": "D7.14.38", "lines": ["Eat, give, and tend the soul; with wisdom’s hand,", "Break evil’s foot, and let no malice stand."]}, {"id": "D7.14.39", "lines": ["By justice and by bounty make earth thrive,", "And let your subjects’ joy remain alive."]}, {"id": "D7.14.40", "lines": ["For neither kings nor Mobadan remain", "Forever; none can hold the world’s domain.”"]}, {"id": "D7.14.41", "lines": ["The father gave his son the world to keep;", "The son gave him a dakhmeh’s peaceful sleep."]}, {"id": "D7.14.42", "lines": ["Know this is no injustice of the sky;", "You breathe like passing wind, then fade and die."]}, {"id": "D7.14.43", "lines": ["This law endures while heaven’s wheel shall roll;", "Why then afflict and trouble your own soul?"]}, {"id": "D7.14.44", "lines": ["Why ask or speak of what may come to view?", "Such matters are no proper task for you."]}, {"id": "D7.14.45", "lines": ["Though greed has not yet worn your soul away,", "A narrow coffin is your place to stay."]}, {"id": "D7.14.46", "lines": ["Since death has such a wolfish heart, let mine", "Have one great bowl filled to the brim with wine."]}, {"id": "D7.14.47", "lines": ["And bring a sweetheart, silver-bodied, tall", "As cypress, kind, whose honeyed words enthrall;"]}, {"id": "D7.14.48", "lines": ["With jasmine scent, bright cheeks, and moonlike bloom,", "Sun-bright, with breath as rich as musk perfume."]}, {"id": "D7.15.1", "lines": ["For forty days, in mourning for the dead,", "Bahram would set no crown upon his head."]}, {"id": "D7.15.2", "lines": ["The warriors and counselors, grave and wise,", "Came with lamenting hearts and tearful eyes."]}, {"id": "D7.15.3", "lines": ["They sat in mourning, cheeks of yellow hue,", "Their lips like lapis-lazuli, dark blue."]}, {"id": "D7.15.4", "lines": ["A prudent Mobad came to plead his case,", "That Shah Bahram should take his royal place."]}, {"id": "D7.15.5", "lines": ["For one full week he urged him to his seat,", "And stayed until his purpose was complete."]}, {"id": "D7.15.6", "lines": ["He gladly took the throne in royal state,", "And crowned himself as Kayan rites dictate."]}, {"id": "D7.15.7", "lines": ["He first praised God, who makes the ages bright,", "And sets revolving time aglow with light;"]}, {"id": "D7.15.8", "lines": ["Who fosters knowledge, truth, and all things wise,", "And lays low crookedness and fraud and lies;"]}, {"id": "D7.15.9", "lines": ["Yazdan of Saturn and the heavens above", "Asks servants but for justice and for love."]}, {"id": "D7.15.10", "lines": ["Then said, “Tried sages, pure Mobadan, hear:", "You men of long experience, lend an ear."]}, {"id": "D7.15.11", "lines": ["However great your knowledge, let it breed", "No pride before your kings in word or deed."]}, {"id": "D7.15.12", "lines": ["Let wisdom guide your deeds in royal ways,", "And drink to bless the Shah of Iran’s days."]}, {"id": "D7.15.13", "lines": ["The man whom God grants increase and command,", "And eloquence, receives them from His hand."]}, {"id": "D7.15.14", "lines": ["Let all our deeds be generous and fair;", "Let justice make earth flourish everywhere."]}, {"id": "D7.15.15", "lines": ["May I not breathe a word of wrong or greed,", "Nor fill my treasure through a crooked deed."]}, {"id": "D7.15.16", "lines": ["My treasure is for gifts that I bestow;", "A king’s good deeds through open giving show."]}, {"id": "D7.15.17", "lines": ["A man whose mind is clear will seek to learn,", "And toward humane and kindly conduct turn."]}, {"id": "D7.15.18", "lines": ["Forbearance is the root of human worth;", "The rash bring scorn upon themselves on earth."]}, {"id": "D7.15.19", "lines": ["Let harshness never snare you in its net;", "No joy from rage and rashness will you get."]}, {"id": "D7.15.20", "lines": ["The man secure finds joy; his toil and pain", "Turn into wind, and leave on him no stain."]}, {"id": "D7.15.21", "lines": ["The generous heart is richer than the rest;", "It counts amassed dirhams as wind at best."]}, {"id": "D7.15.22", "lines": ["If you have nothing, labor to acquire;", "For few will honor those whose needs are dire."]}, {"id": "D7.15.23", "lines": ["A man with nothing gains no honored place;", "He finds no standing, no regard or grace."]}, {"id": "D7.15.24", "lines": ["When you are satisfied, your heart finds peace;", "But greed brings fears that give you no release."]}, {"id": "D7.15.25", "lines": ["So do not toil through greed for hoarded wealth,", "And drive your soul and body from their health."]}, {"id": "D7.15.26", "lines": ["Choose moderation if you seek men’s praise,", "In matters high and low throughout your days."]}, {"id": "D7.15.27", "lines": ["Make all the world content through justice shown;", "Its wealth and joy will then become your own."]}, {"id": "D7.15.28", "lines": ["Security and uprightness must stand,", "With justice never failing in the land."]}, {"id": "D7.15.29", "lines": ["But if greed clutches at your heart and will,", "Your soul lies trapped in the nahang’s throat still."]}, {"id": "D7.15.30", "lines": ["When joy grows less, the spirit dwindles too,", "And weakened wisdom cannot see you through."]}, {"id": "D7.15.31", "lines": ["Such is the turning heavens’ settled course;", "Against fate’s will we have no strength or force.”"]}, {"id": "D7.15.32", "lines": ["He ruled with justice, keeping faith with right;", "His subjects’ hearts rejoiced in its delight."]}, {"id": "D7.15.33", "lines": ["When nineteen years of royal rule were spent,", "His reign was closed, and life poured out lament."]}, {"id": "D7.15.34", "lines": ["The crowned Shah joined the dust; a dakhmeh’s shade", "Hid him from all the joy the world displayed."]}, {"id": "D7.16.1", "lines": ["Bahram Bahramian began to reign,", "And pledged to make just rule and bounty plain."]}, {"id": "D7.16.2", "lines": ["They sprinkled emeralds upon his crown,", "And named him Kermanshah of high renown."]}, {"id": "D7.16.3", "lines": ["He said, “May God, whose judgments all are fair,", "Grant wisdom, justice, counsel as our share."]}, {"id": "D7.16.4", "lines": ["My blessed father, generous and just,", "Was shepherd to the kings within his trust."]}, {"id": "D7.16.5", "lines": ["May goodness be the work I make my own;", "May good and justice guide me on the throne."]}, {"id": "D7.16.6", "lines": ["May I do nothing crooked, lest my name", "Before Yazdan be darkened by my shame."]}, {"id": "D7.16.7", "lines": ["This fleeting house will not remain with man;", "May goodness help me through this fleeting span."]}, {"id": "D7.16.8", "lines": ["Let us choose good, and pledge both heart and hand", "To justice and to bounty in the land."]}, {"id": "D7.16.9", "lines": ["Both good and evil deeds preserve our name.", "Sow only good, and leave no seed of shame.”"]}, {"id": "D7.16.10", "lines": ["When four brief months of royal rule were past,", "The throne and crown wept, bitter and downcast."]}, {"id": "D7.16.11", "lines": ["Bahram saw death, the dread nahang, draw near,", "Whose hunt both elephant and rhino fear."]}, {"id": "D7.16.12", "lines": ["He gave his son the world and said, “May light", "And grace attend your reign and keep it bright."]}, {"id": "D7.16.13", "lines": ["Array yourself, drink wine, enjoy your reign;", "Give freely; let no throne or crown bring pain.”"]}, {"id": "D7.16.14", "lines": ["When Bahram’s day and fortune both had flown,", "He gave to Narsi both the crown and throne."]}, {"id": "D7.16.15", "lines": ["He breathed a sigh; his life had reached its close,", "And in the burial chamber found repose."]}, {"id": "D7.16.16", "lines": ["Thus moments race, each breath beyond the heed", "Of one whose soul is mastered by his greed."]}, {"id": "D7.16.17", "lines": ["“O happy fortune, bring red wine to me;", "The poet now has lived for sixty-three.”"]}, {"id": "D7.17.1", "lines": ["When Narsi sat upon the ivory seat,", "And wore the crown that made his joy complete,"]}, {"id": "D7.17.2", "lines": ["The nobles came with offerings in hand,", "Still mourning for his father through the land."]}, {"id": "D7.17.3", "lines": ["He blessed them: “Friends who guard the Faith and right,", "May justice keep your hearts in steady light."]}, {"id": "D7.17.4", "lines": ["Know that the Maker governs all we see", "And all things hidden; He has granted me"]}, {"id": "D7.17.5", "lines": ["Greatness and wisdom, justice, modest mind,", "A generous heart, soft speech, and counsel kind."]}, {"id": "D7.17.6", "lines": ["And if my star should rise both clear and bright,", "From me shall come your joy and heart’s delight."]}, {"id": "D7.17.7", "lines": ["When any wise man’s friendship you can win,", "Know you and he are clothed within one skin."]}, {"id": "D7.17.8", "lines": ["Expect good deeds from those whose strength is sound,", "And seek the wise where wisdom can be found."]}, {"id": "D7.17.9", "lines": ["True courage comes from watchful, prudent ways,", "And valiant men are worthy of all praise."]}, {"id": "D7.17.10", "lines": ["But he who flees from work and shuns the fight", "Will lose his name and honor through that flight."]}, {"id": "D7.17.11", "lines": ["The idle man is cowardly within,", "For sloth and cowardice are close of kin.”"]}, {"id": "D7.17.12", "lines": ["For nine full years he ruled with counsel sound;", "His words brought benefit the whole world round."]}, {"id": "D7.17.13", "lines": ["His day drew near, and fortune’s favor fled;", "Like wax grew soft the steel helm on his head."]}, {"id": "D7.17.14", "lines": ["Hormizd ran to his bedside, fair and bright,", "A tulip glowing with its own rich light."]}, {"id": "D7.17.15", "lines": ["Narsi’s own son was like the moon at night,", "That shines through darkness, silvery and white."]}, {"id": "D7.17.16", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Gently nurtured youth, remain", "With all your strength apart from vice and stain."]}, {"id": "D7.17.17", "lines": ["You, Narsi’s soul, with Bahram’s fortune blessed,", "Are worthy of the throne and royal crest."]}, {"id": "D7.17.18", "lines": ["You have great stature, courage, learned grace,", "In knowledge none can stand to take your place."]}, {"id": "D7.17.19", "lines": ["May crown not weep because of how you reign;", "Nor let your council’s hearts burn with such pain."]}, {"id": "D7.17.20", "lines": ["Rule by the laws of kings throughout the land,", "As you have learned from God’s own pure command."]}, {"id": "D7.17.21", "lines": ["May joy within your heart and soul increase;", "May greatness, treasure flourish without cease."]}, {"id": "D7.17.22", "lines": ["At length your own bright day will pass from view,", "And rolling heaven trample over you."]}, {"id": "D7.17.23", "lines": ["So act that when they question you that day,", "Your answers bring good fortune on your way.”"]}, {"id": "D7.17.24", "lines": ["Thus spoke the Shah, then drew across his head", "The mantle; from his depths a cold sigh spread."]}, {"id": "D7.17.25", "lines": ["That day it seemed no Narsi ever reigned;", "No throne, no crown, no royal seat remained."]}, {"id": "D7.18.1", "lines": ["When great Hormizd assumed the royal seat,", "The wolves no longer dared to hunt for meat."]}, {"id": "D7.18.2", "lines": ["He kept the world in peace beneath his hand,", "And foiled Ahriman’s schemes throughout the land."]}, {"id": "D7.18.3", "lines": ["First he praised God, all-knowing and all-wise,", "The mighty Lord, whose care all life supplies."]}, {"id": "D7.18.4", "lines": ["“He made the night and day, the turning sky,", "Saturn and Mars, the sun that wheels on high."]}, {"id": "D7.18.5", "lines": ["All victory and grace, just heart and crown,", "Come forth from Him, whose light is handed down."]}, {"id": "D7.18.6", "lines": ["May justice fill my heart and guide my hand;", "May joy through me reach those whom I command."]}, {"id": "D7.18.7", "lines": ["The hearts of base men never gather praise;", "Avoid their fellowship throughout your days."]}, {"id": "D7.18.8", "lines": ["Take counsel not with men of evil mind,", "But seek the good, whose judgment is refined."]}, {"id": "D7.18.9", "lines": ["The pious call no giver truly kind", "Who gives for thanks he later hopes to find."]}, {"id": "D7.18.10", "lines": ["The man who takes a gift but gives no thanks", "Deserves no place among the honored ranks."]}, {"id": "D7.18.11", "lines": ["The harsh man trembles when no friend is near.", "With none to love him, he is prey to fear."]}, {"id": "D7.18.12", "lines": ["The wise man takes no idler as his guide;", "No slothful helper should remain beside."]}, {"id": "D7.18.13", "lines": ["If slothful men are those on whom you call,", "You cannot rule or judge men, great or small."]}, {"id": "D7.18.14", "lines": ["Beware self-praise and arrogance of heart;", "Let not the throne make modesty depart."]}, {"id": "D7.18.15", "lines": ["When one ill-natured grows both poor and vile,", "He blames his fortune and complains awhile."]}, {"id": "D7.18.16", "lines": ["He idles, blaming fate; no counsel, lore,", "Or worth to grace a throne is in his store."]}, {"id": "D7.18.17", "lines": ["The loss of wealth diminishes his soul,", "His mind and heart, and leaves him less than whole."]}, {"id": "D7.18.18", "lines": ["He prides himself on want and evil ways,", "And lifts his head in folly all his days."]}, {"id": "D7.18.19", "lines": ["He lacks all wealth and knowledge, counsel, skill,", "Faith, and the favor of God’s righteous will."]}, {"id": "D7.18.20", "lines": ["May all your nights and days be blessed and bright,", "May foes’ souls from their bodies take their flight.”"]}, {"id": "D7.18.21", "lines": ["The chiefs acclaimed his words with one accord,", "And raised their heads from mourning, hope restored."]}, {"id": "D7.18.22", "lines": ["Nine years passed; his pomegranate-blossom face", "Turned yellow, and its bloom left not a trace."]}, {"id": "D7.18.23", "lines": ["That crowned head grieved at death; his life was done,", "And at his bedside there was not a son."]}, {"id": "D7.18.24", "lines": ["That famous king, whose words were sweetly told,", "Departed young; the world was worn and old."]}, {"id": "D7.18.25", "lines": ["The people mourned for him for forty days,", "And left the vacant throne beneath their gaze."]}, {"id": "D7.18.26", "lines": ["The nobles’ heads were filled with anxious care,", "While the great throne stood empty of its heir."]}, {"id": "D7.18.27", "lines": ["The Mobad saw, within the women’s place,", "A maid with tulip cheeks and moon-bright face."]}, {"id": "D7.18.28", "lines": ["Her lashes curved like khanjars Kabul made;", "Like Babylonian script, her curls were laid."]}, {"id": "D7.18.29", "lines": ["Her chain-like locks were twisted, wound, and spread,", "All intertwined and knotted on her head."]}, {"id": "D7.18.30", "lines": ["Within her womb she bore the royal seed,", "The realm took heart from what had been decreed."]}, {"id": "D7.18.31", "lines": ["Above her head they hung the royal crown,", "And on it showered gold and dirhams down."]}]}, {"id": "D8", "title": "The Shapur Zul-Aktaf Cycle and Later Early Sasanian Reigns", "summary": "4 sections · 757 couplets", "path": "/poem/d8/", "couplets": [{"id": "D8.1.1.1", "lines": ["Not long had passed before she bore a son,", "A child as radiant as the shining sun."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.2", "lines": ["A dehqan bard, born of a Mobad line,", "Passed on this tale; his telling now is mine."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.3", "lines": ["The Mobad named him Shapur, held a feast,", "And joy spread wide from greatest man to least."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.4", "lines": ["The infant bore the signs of royal grace,", "And wisdom’s banner shaded his young face."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.5", "lines": ["At forty days, they called for strings and wine;", "Prepared, the royal throne stood bright and fine."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.6", "lines": ["The nobles came with golden girdles fair,", "And raised the crown above the royal heir."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.7", "lines": ["They fed the infant milk till satisfied,", "Then wrapped him safe in silk on every side."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.8", "lines": ["At forty days, beneath the crown of gold,", "They set him on his father’s throne of old."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.9", "lines": ["They blessed him as their king with reverent care;", "The chiefs paid homage, showering gems through air."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.10", "lines": ["A Mobad known as Mehri, wise and bright,", "Was fit for service, and his heart was light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.11", "lines": ["He took a golden seat before the king,", "And pledged the service he had come to bring."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.12", "lines": ["He ruled with justice, wisdom as his guide,", "And led the troops to goodness far and wide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.13", "lines": ["He filled the royal stores, the troops supplied,", "And decked his throne and halls on every side."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.14", "lines": ["Thus five years passed beneath the turning sky;", "The child grew tall and held his head up high."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.15", "lines": ["Attended by that sage of high renown,", "The Shah then sat in Tisfoon’s royal town."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.16", "lines": ["The sun turned yellow as the day withdrew,", "And evening spread its veil of lapis blue."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.17", "lines": ["A roar came from the road by Arvand’s flow;", "The Shah asked what that sound might mean below."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.18", "lines": ["The Mobad answered that young king of worth:", "“Pure-hearted Shah, whose steps bring luck to earth,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.19", "lines": ["The market folk now leave their shops to go", "Back to their homes, as evening shadows grow."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.20", "lines": ["Across the Tigris, meeting face to face,", "They tread the narrow bridge in crowded space."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.21", "lines": ["Each fears the waves and water far below;", "Their shouts roar like a torrent in full flow.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.22", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “O sages of my state,", "O wise and honored men, in counsel great,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.23", "lines": ["Another bridge must span the river’s track:", "One lets them leave, the other brings them back."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.24", "lines": ["Let troops and common folk all cross with ease;", "And those who serve us find the same release."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.25", "lines": ["Let none be burdened on that crowded way;", "Give freely from our stores the cost to pay.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.26", "lines": ["The Mobadan rejoiced at what was seen:", "The tender tree had grown so fresh and green."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.27", "lines": ["As young Shapur commanded, they obeyed;", "Their chief gave orders, and the plans were laid."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.28", "lines": ["His mother’s heart rejoiced; she chose him guides,", "To teach the lore in which good sense resides."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.29", "lines": ["So swiftly did his understanding rise,", "He soon surpassed his teachers, learned and wise."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.30", "lines": ["At seven, on the field he learned to fight,", "And played at polo with a rider’s might."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.31", "lines": ["At eight, he learned the manners of the court;", "He seemed Shah Bahram in both grace and sport."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.32", "lines": ["He grew in honor, proud of his own worth,", "And made Istakhr his seat upon the earth."]}, {"id": "D8.1.1.33", "lines": ["He kept his noble forebears’ ways of old,", "Those chosen, pure, exalted men extolled."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.1", "lines": ["Soon after Shapur’s royal crown grew bright,", "The world shone in its ever-growing light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.2", "lines": ["Tair, the Ghassanid, rose fierce in pride;", "His scimitar could cleave the heavens wide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.3", "lines": ["From Rum and Pars, with Kurdish troops, they came,", "From Bahrain, Kadisiya, drawn by fame."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.4", "lines": ["Up to Tisfoon his mighty army poured,", "Beyond the count that knowledge could record."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.5", "lines": ["He gave the country up to spoil and flame;", "Who could resist him or escape his name?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.6", "lines": ["He heard of Nusha, fair and young of face,", "The Shah’s own aunt, a flower of royal race."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.7", "lines": ["He sought her palace while the city cried;", "All Tisfoon was filled with fear inside."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.8", "lines": ["They seized her there and bore her far away;", "Unwise, they would not hear what sense might say."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.9", "lines": ["When one full year had passed beneath his power,", "Her heart bled from her thoughts through every hour."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.10", "lines": ["She bore a moonlike girl, whose royal grace", "Showed crowned and throned King Narsi in her face."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.11", "lines": ["Her father named her Malika, and knew", "His daughter worthy of a kingdom too."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.12", "lines": ["At twenty-six, Shapur had reached his prime,", "A sunlike monarch in his youthful time."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.13", "lines": ["He mustered all his troops upon the plain,", "And chose twelve thousand warriors from the train."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.14", "lines": ["For each he gave a camel, swift and fast,", "And chose a hundred guides from first to last."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.15", "lines": ["The warriors mounted; each one led a steed,", "Equipped for desert march and battle need."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.16", "lines": ["He marched in chase of Ghassan’s king of might,", "Proud Tair, like a raging lion in fight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.17", "lines": ["Shapur cut down Tair’s men left and right;", "When Tair saw, he turned his back in flight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.18", "lines": ["Then hue and cry arose along the way;", "They seized the captives in that fierce affray."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.19", "lines": ["Within a fort in Yemen, people wailed,", "Men, women, children, as their courage failed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.20", "lines": ["Shapur brought such a force along the track,", "No ant or gnat could pass from front to back."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.21", "lines": ["He found Tair with his troops, hemmed in tight,", "And blocked their paths of battle and of flight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.22", "lines": ["A month the battle raged without a break;", "The stores within the fort ebbed in its wake."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.23", "lines": ["At early dawn Shapur took up his bow,", "And rode with ardor out to meet the foe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.24", "lines": ["The rider wore black armor on his breast;", "A black flag flew above his helmet’s crest."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.25", "lines": ["Then Malika looked down from fortress height,", "And saw the flag and rider armed for fight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.26", "lines": ["His cheeks were rose-leaves; musk perfumed his hair;", "His lips like jujubes, crimson-ripe and fair."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.27", "lines": ["From Malika all sleep and peace had flown,", "For love had made her heart no more her own."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.28", "lines": ["Possessed by love, she sought her nurse and said,", "“This sunlike Shah comes here for Tair’s head."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.29", "lines": ["He shares my blood, a lord of royal fame;", "To me the whole world lives within his name."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.30", "lines": ["To Shah Shapur convey my secret plea;", "He comes for war; bring wedding joy from me."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.31", "lines": ["Say, ‘You and I are of one royal race,", "And both bear brave Narsi’s ancestral grace."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.32", "lines": ["I share your vengeance; I am kin to you,", "Nusha’s own daughter, of your lineage true."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.33", "lines": ["If you will marry me, the hold is yours,", "And I, the beauty housed within its doors."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.34", "lines": ["Now through my nurse confirm what you have heard,", "And pledge your honor with a binding word.’”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.35", "lines": ["The nurse replied, “I hear and will obey;", "I shall return with what the Shah may say.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.36", "lines": ["When night upon the earth assumed command,", "From sea to sea its armies held the land."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.37", "lines": ["The hills turned indigo; the stars burned bright,", "Like lamps above the darkened earth at night."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.38", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand candles seemed to flare,", "Hung from the sky’s high fortress in the air."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.39", "lines": ["The trembling nurse went out; her terror grew;", "The thought of Tair split her heart in two."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.40", "lines": ["She reached the royal tent, and drawing near,", "Approached a guide to gain the monarch’s ear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.41", "lines": ["“If you will bring me to the Shah tonight,", "You shall receive a crown and ring made bright.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.42", "lines": ["That prudent man then brought her to be seen", "Before the valiant Shah of kingly mien."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.43", "lines": ["She came, swept dust with lashes at his feet,", "And told him all in words both clear and sweet."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.44", "lines": ["Her message filled the Shah with glad delight;", "He smiled and gave a thousand dinars bright."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.45", "lines": ["Two bracelets, necklace, crown he handed down,", "With a brocade cloak, Chin’s work of renown."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.46", "lines": ["He said, “Speak softly to that moonlike maid;", "Let many gentle words her heart persuade."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.47", "lines": ["By sun and moon, by Zoroaster’s name,", "By sacred girdle, crown, and glory’s flame,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.48", "lines": ["Whatever she may ask, I shall bestow,", "Though through that gift my royal power sinks low."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.49", "lines": ["No hurtful word from me shall reach her ear;", "I shall not leave her arms, but hold her dear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.50", "lines": ["To wed her, by God’s will, I yield my crown,", "My throne, my troops, my treasure all laid down.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.51", "lines": ["The nurse returned at once, as he decreed,", "And told the silver cypress all agreed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.52", "lines": ["She said, “Now Venus has conjoined the sun,”", "And joy and hope within her soul were one."]}, {"id": "D8.1.2.53", "lines": ["She told of Shah Shapur, his face and frame,", "And all the royal splendor of his name."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.1", "lines": ["The sun revealed its crown of golden light;", "The teak-dark earth bloomed yellow at the sight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.2", "lines": ["She won the treasurer and minister’s aid,", "And took the keys where food and wine were laid."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.3", "lines": ["For every chief within the fortress wall,", "And battle-seasoned captains, one and all,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.4", "lines": ["She sent the chiefs and veterans lavish fare,", "With wine, narcissus, fenugreek to share."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.5", "lines": ["She called the server, spoke with gracious art,", "And placed her secret purpose in his heart."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.6", "lines": ["“Tonight pour wine for Tair without delay,", "Poured straight, until his senses drift away."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.7", "lines": ["Keep every man with brimming cup in hand,", "Until they fall asleep at my command.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.8", "lines": ["The server answered, “I am yours to give;", "I live because your will has let me live.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.9", "lines": ["At last the yellow sun sank from the sky;", "When murky night drew darkness from on high,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.10", "lines": ["Tair called out for cups of royal wine,", "And first he named the Ghassanids’ proud line."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.11", "lines": ["When one watch passed, Tair slept without care,", "Oblivious of the clamor everywhere."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.12", "lines": ["All others drew away and went to rest;", "That moon then made her orders manifest."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.13", "lines": ["She bade them whisper, silent as they crept,", "And open wide the gate while warders slept."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.14", "lines": ["Shah Shapur watched and waited through the night;", "The drunken clamor stirred his wrath to fight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.15", "lines": ["A light shone from the gate; the Shah then cried,", "“Now waking fortune stands upon our side!”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.16", "lines": ["He bade them lodge the maiden, fair of face,", "Within the women’s quarters, in her place."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.17", "lines": ["He gathered all his forces for the fight,", "And chose brave men approved in valor’s light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.18", "lines": ["He brought his footmen forward, horsemen too,", "All men who knew what battle called them to."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.19", "lines": ["He stormed the hold and slew men in the fray;", "They seized the ancient treasures stored away."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.20", "lines": ["Within the hold, Tair’s soldiers lay asleep,", "Too many, drunk with wine, for count to keep."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.21", "lines": ["The other sleepers woke in sudden fright,", "And everywhere made ready for the fight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.22", "lines": ["Not one would turn his back beneath the raid;", "The Shah cut down the warriors who stayed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.23", "lines": ["Tair was captured, stripped of all his pride,", "And hurried naked to Shapur’s side."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.24", "lines": ["The hold and all its riches were his prize;", "Its wicked men stood bound before his eyes."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.25", "lines": ["He waited till the dawn; when daylight blazed,", "They raised a turquoise throne while all men gazed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.26", "lines": ["As custom ordered, in the fortress hall,", "He held a royal audience for all."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.27", "lines": ["When Shah Shapur dismissed the gathered band,", "The rose of early spring came at command."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.28", "lines": ["She wore a ruby crown, and fold on fold", "Of Chinese brocade shone with woven gold."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.29", "lines": ["He seated her beside him in her place,", "And called for bound Tair before her face."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.30", "lines": ["Tair came bareheaded, bound, disgraced, and shamed,", "And saw his daughter crowned and brightly famed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.31", "lines": ["He knew the plot was hers, that her own art", "Had shaken throne and rule and wrung his heart."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.32", "lines": ["He said, “O noble Shah, now look and see", "How my own child has dealt so hard with me."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.33", "lines": ["Beware her love; regard all strangers here", "As hidden foes whom every king should fear.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.34", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “You seized, to our great shame,", "Narsi’s own daughter; Nusha was her name."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.35", "lines": ["You dragged her from seclusion, shamed our race,", "And stirred the sleeping feud you now must face.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.36", "lines": ["He bade the headsman sever Tair’s head,", "Then burn his body when the man lay dead."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.37", "lines": ["They dragged his head through blood in foul disgrace,", "Then bore it out and took it from that place."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.38", "lines": ["He let no Arab captive plead his case;", "No lips could open there before his face."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.39", "lines": ["He tore their shoulder blades from either side;", "The world looked on in wonder, far and wide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.40", "lines": ["Thus Arabs named him Zul-Aktaf in dread,", "For shoulders torn from spines, as terror spread."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.41", "lines": ["He turned to Pars, where all before him bowed,", "And paid him homage, gathered crowd on crowd."]}, {"id": "D8.1.3.42", "lines": ["Those spared with shoulders whole paid tax and toll,", "And rendered every due with heart and soul."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.1", "lines": ["Thus heaven turned awhile, then changed its face;", "The Shah no longer held its former grace."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.2", "lines": ["The day came when Shapur, though crowned with power,", "Dreaded what fate might bring in some dark hour."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.3", "lines": ["When three full watches of the night had crept,", "He woke his learned astrologers, who slept."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.4", "lines": ["He asked what waited for the throne ahead,", "What joy or sorrow heaven’s book had said."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.5", "lines": ["The sage brought out his astrolabe to read", "The heavens, giving sleep and rest no heed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.6", "lines": ["He watched the Lion’s Heart, whose shining light", "Foretells good fortune and success in fight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.7", "lines": ["They sought if harm would reach the royal head,", "Or grace grow greater where his path was led."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.8", "lines": ["When they had read the signs, they answered low:", "“O pure of heart, great Shah, this much we know:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.9", "lines": ["A grievous trial waits, with pain and dread;", "None dares describe the grief that lies ahead.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.10", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “O learned men of skill,", "What art can bend or break this evil will?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.11", "lines": ["How may this danger pass and leave me sound,", "And my ill star not trample me to ground?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.12", "lines": ["The sage replied, “O Shah, no man can fly", "Beyond the turning of the restless sky."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.13", "lines": ["No courage, skill, or knowledge sets men free,", "Though sage or warrior each may strive to be."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.14", "lines": ["We cannot strive with heaven’s turning will;", "What must befall will surely meet us still.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.15", "lines": ["The noble Shah replied, “May God be near,", "Our refuge from each evil that we fear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.16", "lines": ["He made the lofty heavens circle all,", "He fashioned strength and weakness, rise and fall.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.17", "lines": ["The Shah spread justice through the realm he had;", "For some time, free from trouble, he was glad."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.18", "lines": ["When he had made the realm secure and great,", "He longed to view Rum’s cities and its state."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.19", "lines": ["He wished to see the might of Caesar’s reign,", "His troops, his wealth, his power, and his domain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.20", "lines": ["He told his minister the plan he nursed,", "A Pahlevan, bold, just, in prudence versed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.21", "lines": ["He hid the plan from every other ear,", "And told his minister in counsel clear:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.22", "lines": ["“Rule justly while I journey out of sight;", "Let justice bring you joy in doing right.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.23", "lines": ["Ten camel trains he readied for the road,", "And over each a driver with his goad."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.24", "lines": ["He loaded thirty camels down with gold,", "The rest with silk and jewels in their hold."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.25", "lines": ["He left the peopled lands with inward pain,", "And journeyed full of care toward Rum’s domain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.26", "lines": ["A village near the city came in view,", "Where dehqans lived, and city people too."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.27", "lines": ["He sought a householder and asked him clear,", "“Good sir, may I be given lodging here?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.28", "lines": ["His men received him with a welcome cheer:", "“How rare a guest like you should now appear!”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.29", "lines": ["He ate and gave rich presents in return,", "And won the blessings generous hearts can earn."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.30", "lines": ["At dawn he packed and left his host’s domain,", "And sped to Caesar’s palace with his train."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.31", "lines": ["He came before the chamberlain, and paid", "Salute, and at his feet his presents laid."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.32", "lines": ["The elder asked, “Who are you? Tell me true,", "For kingly limbs and looks appear in you.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.33", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “Not I; I am no king,", "A pious Iranian; goods I bring."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.34", "lines": ["From Jaz I came with merchandise for sale,", "With silk and linen, bundled bale on bale."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.35", "lines": ["I seek admission here, in hope to stand", "Before great Caesar, ruler of this land."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.36", "lines": ["If in my goods, my gems, or arms there lies", "Something that pleases Caesar’s royal eyes,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.37", "lines": ["Let him accept my gifts and store them here;", "His treasury’s gain will give me joy and cheer."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.38", "lines": ["The rest shall go for silver and for gold;", "Safe in his care, my trading shall be bold."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.39", "lines": ["Then I shall purchase what I need to gain", "From Rum, and bear it home to Iran’s plain.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.40", "lines": ["The elder bore the word to Caesar’s ear;", "He rose and told him why the guest was here."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.41", "lines": ["Then Caesar bade them draw the curtain wide,", "And let the merchant through to come inside."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.42", "lines": ["He granted audience; Shapur then drew near,", "And offered praise in language bright and clear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.43", "lines": ["While Caesar gazed on him, he liked him well,", "And gave his heart to Shapur’s beauty’s spell."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.44", "lines": ["He bade them set the board and bring the wine;", "They decked the hall and made the palace shine."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.45", "lines": ["In Rum there lived a man of Iran’s kind,", "World-traveled, but unjust and harsh of mind."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.46", "lines": ["He said, “Great Caesar, hear my secret word;", "I bring you news that you have never heard."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.47", "lines": ["He takes our gold for silks and costly things,", "But he is Shapur, lord of Iran’s kings."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.48", "lines": ["In speech, in face, in grace, in every sign,", "I know Shapur, the Shah of Iran’s line.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.49", "lines": ["When Caesar heard, amazement darkened him;", "He stared at Shapur, troubled, stern, and grim."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.50", "lines": ["He set a guard, but told no other ear,", "And kept the secret hidden from all here."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.51", "lines": ["When Shah Shapur rose drunken from the wine,", "Still Caesar watched his face for every sign."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.52", "lines": ["A guard seized him: “What wonder meets my eyes!", "Shapur of Narsi’s line in this disguise!”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.53", "lines": ["They took him to the women’s rooms and tied", "His hands; no strength can thrust his fate aside."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.54", "lines": ["What use are all the stars that sages read,", "When all their knowledge fails us in our need?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.55", "lines": ["They lit a candle by the drunken king,", "And sewed him in a donkey hide with string."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.56", "lines": ["All said, “The wretch has gained a donkey skin,", "And lost the throne his pride had wrapped him in.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.57", "lines": ["They bore him to a narrow, darkened cell,", "A luckless captive, brought in haste to dwell."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.58", "lines": ["They flung him down upon that prison floor,", "Then fixed a lock upon the chamber door."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.59", "lines": ["Then Caesar gave the key and captive’s care", "To his own wife, and warned her to beware."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.60", "lines": ["“Give bread and water, lest his soul depart", "Too soon and end the torment I impart."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.61", "lines": ["If he survives a while, then he shall know", "The worth of throne and crown through this great woe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.62", "lines": ["No man who is not born of Caesar’s line", "Should dream of Caesar’s throne or covet mine.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.63", "lines": ["She locked the cell; her own rooms lay elsewhere,", "Within another hall she took her chair."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.64", "lines": ["She had a moon-faced treasurer, a maid", "Whose trusted counsel gave her every aid."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.65", "lines": ["She knew her fathers’ names and lineage well;", "Her roots in Iran she could clearly tell."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.66", "lines": ["The queen gave her the key, and bade her guard", "Shapur, sewn in the hide, his cell door barred."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.67", "lines": ["That day great Caesar led his troops outside,", "And left Shapur imprisoned in the hide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.68", "lines": ["In Iran, Caesar’s soldiers drew the blade,", "And through the realm a path of ruin made."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.69", "lines": ["They carried captives off from every place,", "And none stood forth to shield Iran’s own race."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.70", "lines": ["Iran was stripped of women, men, and gold,", "Of children, goods, and stores from kings of old."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.71", "lines": ["No tidings reached the troops, no word was spread,", "Whether Shapur still lived on or lay dead."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.72", "lines": ["Iran’s inhabitants fled Rum in dread;", "The land lay empty where its people fled."]}, {"id": "D8.1.4.73", "lines": ["Countless Iranians chose the Christian creed;", "The bishops ruled the land in word and deed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.1", "lines": ["Time passed; Iran’s army scattered wide,", "Its broken ranks dispersed on every side."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.2", "lines": ["In Rum, his keepers held him fast in thrall,", "And never let him slip beyond the wall."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.3", "lines": ["The maid took no delight in Shapur’s pain;", "Her own descent was from Iran’s domain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.4", "lines": ["Her heart burned for the captive, and she cried", "To see him in his plight, sewn in that hide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.5", "lines": ["She said, “O noble man, what is your name?", "Speak without fear and tell from where you came."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.6", "lines": ["Within this ass’s hide your noble frame", "Finds no repose and bears this bitter shame."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.7", "lines": ["You were a cypress with the moon for crown,", "And musk-black curls upon that moon hung down."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.8", "lines": ["Your lofty cypress bends into a hoop;", "Your elephantine limbs like reeds now droop."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.9", "lines": ["My heart is burning, and my eyes still weep", "For you by day and through the hours of sleep."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.10", "lines": ["What do you seek, what hope, what hidden fear?", "Why keep your secret hidden from my ear?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.11", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “Fair maid, if in your heart", "You feel some love for me, then do your part."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.12", "lines": ["Swear me an oath that you will never break,", "And keep it always, for my anguish’s sake."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.13", "lines": ["Swear not to tell my foes what I reveal,", "Remember all the anguish I conceal."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.14", "lines": ["Then I shall tell you truly who I am,", "And speak without deceit, disguise, or sham.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.15", "lines": ["The damsel swore by God, the All-just Lord,", "The deacon’s seventyfold encircling cord."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.16", "lines": ["By Christ’s life and the Cross, its pain and tear,", "By Iran’s ruler, and by love and fear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.17", "lines": ["“I will not tell, nor profit from your fall,", "Nor give your secret to your foes at all.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.18", "lines": ["He told her all, the good as well as bad,", "His hidden fate and every grief he had."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.19", "lines": ["He said, “If you will do what I command,", "And keep my secret firm within your hand,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.20", "lines": ["Your head shall rise above all women’s fame,", "The world lie at your feet, to serve your name."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.21", "lines": ["At mealtime bring me milk, and warm it well,", "In secret, gently; let no other tell."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.22", "lines": ["I soak this donkey hide; its tale shall run", "Throughout the world when all this grief is done."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.23", "lines": ["Long after I have died, through many a year,", "The wise will tell the tale for men to hear.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.24", "lines": ["The damsel strove to gather up the milk,", "And moved in secret, watchful, soft as silk."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.25", "lines": ["She took a bowl of milk and brought it near", "The fire, to warm it for the captive here."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.26", "lines": ["Then bore it to Shapur unseen by all,", "And told no other person, great or small."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.27", "lines": ["For fourteen days she softened all the hide,", "Until it yielded, pliant on each side."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.28", "lines": ["He left the hide, his body stained with blood,", "His heart still aching beneath sorrow’s flood."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.29", "lines": ["He said in trust, “O pure and watchful maid,", "Kind in your deeds and steadfast in your aid,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.30", "lines": ["We must consult and choose the wisest way,", "To flee from Rum and reach Iran one day."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.31", "lines": ["May blessing never rest on such a land,", "Where kings are sewn in hide by tyrant hand.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.32", "lines": ["The damsel said, “Tomorrow, on the plain,", "The Roman chiefs will feast with all their train."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.33", "lines": ["The men and women, children, one and all,", "Will join the feasting past the city wall."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.34", "lines": ["When Caesar’s queen has passed beyond the gate,", "Then I shall act before it grows too late."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.35", "lines": ["The house will empty stand; I shall prepare", "Our flight, and fear no watcher and no snare."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.36", "lines": ["Two steeds, two gorzes, arrows, and a bow", "I shall provide, all ready when we go.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.37", "lines": ["Shapur praised her foresight and grew bold,", "And took her counsel as more dear than gold."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.38", "lines": ["He fixed his purpose, planning what to do,", "And sought two noble horses, weapons too:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.39", "lines": ["A sword and gorz, and armor for the steed,", "With jowshan, helmet, fit for warriors’ need."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.40", "lines": ["He settled all his thoughts and made his choice,", "With wisdom as his guide and ruling voice."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.41", "lines": ["When light’s own fountain sank into the west,", "And night drew pitch across its darkened breast,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.42", "lines": ["Shapur mused long: “What will the dawn reveal?", "Will all her promised cunning now prove real?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.43", "lines": ["The sun in Leo rose, and day grew strong,", "And sleep from all the city slipped along;"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.44", "lines": ["The great men of the town went to the feast,", "From highest lord down to the very least."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.45", "lines": ["The damsel, like a man of practiced art,", "Began at once to play her secret part."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.46", "lines": ["She held the empty palace in her care,", "Her lion-heart and leopard-claws laid bare."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.47", "lines": ["She brought two noble horses from the stall,", "Then chose the finest weapons in the hall."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.48", "lines": ["She gathered what they needed: pearls and gold,", "With rubies and supplies for flight, all told."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.49", "lines": ["When all was set, and night hid Rum’s high dome,", "The pair resolved to flee from Caesar’s home."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.50", "lines": ["Two guards who kept the watch became aware", "That Shah Shapur was leaving from their care."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.51", "lines": ["They spurred in his pursuit with all their force,", "And overtook the famous warrior’s horse."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.52", "lines": ["They seized his reins; the Shah sprang up to fight,", "Upright within his saddle, full of might."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.53", "lines": ["He gripped one by the head and flung him low,", "Down to the earth beneath that crushing throw."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.54", "lines": ["When both lay lifeless, fallen on the ground,", "The Shah and maid rode on, for Iran bound."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.55", "lines": ["They started forth toward Iran’s distant land,", "In secret joy, to seek a safer strand."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.56", "lines": ["They hurried on; they did not halt to eat,", "Nor let the need for sleep delay their feet."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.57", "lines": ["From city roads through thorn-brakes on they sped,", "Till Khuzian lay before them, far outspread."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.58", "lines": ["When steeds and riders fainted from the ride,", "They sought a place where they might safely hide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.59", "lines": ["They came upon a village, lush and green,", "With gardens, parks, and feasting-grounds between."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.60", "lines": ["Worn out by toil, they sought a place to stay,", "And knocked upon a gardener’s door that day."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.61", "lines": ["A hospitable man came out to greet", "The pair, kind-hearted, keen their needs to meet."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.62", "lines": ["He saw them armed in jowshan, helm, and spear,", "And asked what strange occasion brought them here."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.63", "lines": ["“Why this arrival at so strange an hour,", "Armed as for war against a hostile power?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.64", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “Good friend, you ask too much", "Of one astray, whom grief has in its clutch."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.65", "lines": ["I am a traveler born in Iran’s land,", "Who fled and sought this border’s sheltering hand."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.66", "lines": ["I ache from Caesar and his army’s dread;", "May I no more behold his crown or head."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.67", "lines": ["If you will shelter me this single night,", "And keep a warrior’s secret out of sight,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.68", "lines": ["Be sure reward will one day come to you;", "The tree you plant will flourish, strong and true.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.69", "lines": ["The gardener answered, “This whole house is yours;", "I am your guest within these very doors."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.70", "lines": ["Whatever I can do, I will perform,", "And tell no soul of you through calm or storm.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.71", "lines": ["Then Shah Shapur and she, a wayworn pair,", "Dismounted, glad of roof and humble fare."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.72", "lines": ["The gardener’s wife made food as she was able;", "They ate their bread beside her simple table."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.73", "lines": ["When bread was eaten, they turned next to wine,", "Within a modest chamber’s plain design."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.74", "lines": ["He brought the wine and raised the brimming cup;", "Released from hide, the Shah’s glad heart rose up."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.75", "lines": ["The gardener set wine before his guest,", "And said, “Drink now to one you love the best.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.76", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “Good friend, both wise and good,", "Your speech is just and rightly understood."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.77", "lines": ["The elder who has brought the wine should start,", "For age and wisdom earn the foremost part."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.78", "lines": ["You are my elder, and the wine is yours;", "So drink before me here within your doors.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.79", "lines": ["The gardener said, “Great sir, the man of grace", "Should drink before the elder of this place."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.80", "lines": ["Though you are young, your wisdom shines so clear,", "That age and insight in your words appear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.81", "lines": ["Your face bestows the beauty crowns would wear;", "The scent of musk comes wafting from your hair.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.82", "lines": ["Shapur smiled, took the wine, and from his breast", "He drew a chilly sigh of grief suppressed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.83", "lines": ["Then asked his host, “O man of faith most pure,", "What news of Iran do you know for sure?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.84", "lines": ["The gardener said, “O you of kingly mind,", "May no foe ever harm your noble kind."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.85", "lines": ["May every ill that Caesar brought our land", "Fall on our foes beneath fate’s turning hand."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.86", "lines": ["All Iran lies scattered, crops lost from sight,", "And slaughter has put out the country’s light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.87", "lines": ["Through plunder and the slaughter, men and wives", "Were scattered far, in terror for their lives."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.88", "lines": ["And many turned to Christ, and came to stand,", "Their girdles fastened, at the bishops’ hand."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.89", "lines": ["Some wore the bishops’ caps upon their head,", "And sought in Rum a home and resting bed.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.90", "lines": ["Shapur then asked, “Where was Iran’s great lord,", "Whose moonlike radiance shone by God’s accord?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.91", "lines": ["How could a Caesar dare to do such harm,", "And darken Iran with the Roman arm?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.92", "lines": ["The gardener replied, “May your days be blessed,", "And majesty for ever be your guest."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.93", "lines": ["No news of him, alive or dead, has come", "To lords of Iran, left bereft and numb."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.94", "lines": ["The people of Iran are slaves in Rum,", "And exile leaves their homes in ruined gloom.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.95", "lines": ["The gardener, who sheltered Shah Shapur,", "Then wept with grief no mortal could endure."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.96", "lines": ["He added, “Stay three days within my door;", "My house will gain a luster evermore."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.97", "lines": ["A sage once said when this old world was young:", "Who fails a guest deserves no praising tongue."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.98", "lines": ["No wisdom dwells in him; his fortunes fall;", "His star grows dark, and want comes to his hall."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.99", "lines": ["So rest awhile; then take a cup of wine,", "And when your heart is glad, reveal your line.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.100", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “Good; let our sheltering friend", "Be king of us while here our days we spend.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.101", "lines": ["He stayed that night, conversed, and ate his bread;", "At dawn, light rose above the mountain’s head."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.102", "lines": ["When golden banners rose through valley haze,", "The gardener came to wish him happy days."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.103", "lines": ["He said, “May fortune bless the dawning light;", "May rain-clouds roll beneath your noble height."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.104", "lines": ["This poor abode was not a fitting place,", "Nor this a time of rest for one of grace.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.105", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “This house, my gracious host,", "Is dearer than the throne I cherish most."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.106", "lines": ["Bring Zand-Avesta, bring the barsom near,", "That I may murmur prayers and question here.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.107", "lines": ["The gardener brought all the Shah required,", "And made a place for prayer as he desired."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.108", "lines": ["Then as he prayed, the Shah said, “Guide my feet", "To where the high Mobad has his retreat.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.109", "lines": ["The gardener replied, “O man sincere,", "Whose heart is pure, whose words are sweet to hear,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.110", "lines": ["From where I sit, I see the house you seek;", "The high Mobad lives near, of whom you speak.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.111", "lines": ["The Shah then whispered, “Bring some sealing clay;", "The village chief may have some stored away.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.112", "lines": ["The gardener fetched it, hurried to obey,", "Returning quickly, making no delay."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.113", "lines": ["The Shah impressed his signet as agreed,", "And blessed his host, who served him in his need."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.114", "lines": ["He gave the clay back. “Bear this seal away", "To the high Mobad; mark what he will say.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.115", "lines": ["At dawn the gardener took the royal seal,", "And sought the high Mobad, its mark to reveal."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.116", "lines": ["Armed guards stood stationed by the portal wall;", "The door stayed shut; they let in none at all."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.117", "lines": ["He called aloud for entry to the hall;", "They opened, and he went in at their call."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.118", "lines": ["Admitted, he drew near the priest and bent", "His knee, and showed the seal his guest had sent."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.119", "lines": ["When the high Mobad saw that royal name,", "His wise heart leapt with joy and grief aflame."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.120", "lines": ["He wept upon the signet’s honored trace,", "Then asked, “What man has sent you to this place?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.121", "lines": ["The gardener said, “A Pahlevan stays here,", "My lord, within my house, with one maid near:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.122", "lines": ["A slender cypress, wise and fair of face,", "A noble woman, bright with royal grace.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.123", "lines": ["The high Mobad asked, “This man in your care,", "What form and stature does the stranger bear?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.124", "lines": ["The gardener answered, “One who had not seen", "Spring, or a cypress by a river green,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.125", "lines": ["Would find them in this stranger’s form and face,", "And feel his heart rejoice to see such grace."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.126", "lines": ["His arms are like a camel’s thighs in might;", "Lion-chested, with a cheek blood-red and bright."]}, {"id": "D8.1.5.127", "lines": ["Shame takes its color from his grace alone;", "His face lends crown and throne a fairer tone.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.1", "lines": ["The wise high Mobad heard the gardener’s tale,", "And saw the truth beneath its slender veil."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.2", "lines": ["“This lion-heart must be the Shah; his face", "Is fit for nothing but the throne’s high place.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.3", "lines": ["He sought a prudent messenger and said,", "“Go to the chief then where the troops are spread."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.4", "lines": ["The farr of Shah Shapur is now restored;", "Call back our scattered warriors to the sword.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.5", "lines": ["The Mobad’s envoy hurried on his way,", "To where the captain of the army lay."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.6", "lines": ["The captain brightened; vengeance stirred within,", "His lips called out for battle to begin."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.7", "lines": ["He said to God, “O righteous Judge, I bend;", "I serve You only, Guardian and Friend."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.8", "lines": ["Who thought that Shah Shapur would meet again", "His army, and be seen by all his men?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.9", "lines": ["O just God, Master, source of every good,", "I thank You as a loyal servant should.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.10", "lines": ["When night raised up its sable flag on high,", "The stars and rounded moon shone in the sky."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.11", "lines": ["The troops assembled from each distant side,", "Where their sepahbod had been forced to hide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.12", "lines": ["From every side the warriors hurried through,", "And hastened to the house by one and two."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.13", "lines": ["They reached the gardener’s door with hearts aglow,", "And hailed their host with joy they longed to show."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.14", "lines": ["The Shah received the warriors in his lair,", "Although his court was lowly, poor, and bare."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.15", "lines": ["As they came in, they bowed with humble grace,", "And kissed the ground, each lowering his face."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.16", "lines": ["The Shah embraced the chiefs and then began", "To tell his woes before each loyal man."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.17", "lines": ["He told of suffering in the ass’s hide,", "Of Caesar’s words and all his Roman pride."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.18", "lines": ["He told what Iran’s faithful slave had done,", "And how through her his freedom had been won."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.19", "lines": ["“Through her and God, my life has been preserved;", "May Fortune grant her all she has deserved."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.20", "lines": ["Whoever owns a virtuous slave should be", "Her servant in return, though crowned and free."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.21", "lines": ["I am the slave of her whose loving mind", "Is open-hearted, just in deed, and kind."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.22", "lines": ["Wherever I have troops throughout the land,", "Or roads and kingdoms under my command,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.23", "lines": ["Send messengers to rouse each loyal lord,", "And post your scouts on every road and ford."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.24", "lines": ["Above all, block the road toward Tisfoon;", "Let no report go forth by night or noon."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.25", "lines": ["If Caesar hears the news of my return,", "And of my royal farr should come to learn,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.26", "lines": ["Then he will crush my army in attack,", "And break Iran’s proud heart and mighty back."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.27", "lines": ["We cannot meet his gathered strength in fight,", "Nor brave his rising star’s auspicious might."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.28", "lines": ["When the Mobad arrives, his forces massed,", "Then we shall bar the road; no gnat slips past."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.29", "lines": ["We shall lay plans in secret and prepare", "To weed the garden, take them unaware."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.30", "lines": ["Let watchers at each corner guard the way,", "With sentries through the night and scouts by day."]}, {"id": "D8.1.6.31", "lines": ["From now no Roman shall lie down to rest,", "With loosened girdle and a tranquil breast.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.1", "lines": ["Before much time had passed, the Shah could call", "Six thousand warriors, gathered one and all."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.2", "lines": ["To Tisfoon Shapur sent his chiefs of old,", "Experienced men, discreet in what they told."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.3", "lines": ["He bade them seek out Caesar’s state and bring", "Their tidings to the court before the king."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.4", "lines": ["They went at once and worked without a sound,", "In secret, learning all that passed around."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.5", "lines": ["When they had seen it all, they hurried back,", "And told the Shah what Caesar’s forces lack:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.6", "lines": ["“Wine and the hunt fill Caesar’s every thought;", "He gives no heed to battles to be fought."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.7", "lines": ["His troops are scattered, pillaging the land;", "They plunder every region, band by band."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.8", "lines": ["No scouts by day, no guards by night he keeps;", "His troops are sheep whose careless shepherd sleeps."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.9", "lines": ["He sees no enemy on any side,", "And in such ease is happy to abide.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.10", "lines": ["Shapur rejoiced; like smoke his grief was gone;", "The news had freed the heart it weighed upon."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.11", "lines": ["He chose three thousand riders for the fray,", "All mailed, on armored steeds to lead the way."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.12", "lines": ["The Shah donned jowshan when the night grew black,", "And led his troops along the Tisfoon track."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.13", "lines": ["He hurried onward through the dark of night,", "And turned aside when day restored its light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.14", "lines": ["Through desert tracts and mountain ridges stark,", "By path or none, he led them through the dark."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.15", "lines": ["More than two farsangs out before the force,", "The scouts kept watch along and off their course."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.16", "lines": ["They rode ahead until the Shah drew near", "To Tisfoon, with his army in their rear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.17", "lines": ["Three watches passed; he reached the camp that night,", "And feared no strength of Caesar’s in the fight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.18", "lines": ["No watchman’s cry, no drumbeat reached his ear;", "Nor any cockcrow could the monarch hear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.19", "lines": ["Pavilions spread across the desert space;", "None dreamed Shapur would come upon that place."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.20", "lines": ["The camp was packed with soldiers everywhere;", "In his tent Caesar lay, drunk, free of care."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.21", "lines": ["Shapur gave rein at once to his swift steed,", "And led his warriors on with royal speed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.22", "lines": ["He gripped his heavy gorz and spurred his horse;", "Behind him thundered all his charging force."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.23", "lines": ["The karnays and the Indian bells rang round;", "The clouds rang back with clashing gorzes’ sound."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.24", "lines": ["The battle cries rose loud on every side;", "The clash of weapons echoed far and wide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.25", "lines": ["One would have thought the vault of heaven tore,", "And from the sun red drops began to pour."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.26", "lines": ["Kaveh’s bright banner blazed through smoky gloom;", "The violet swords flashed, heralding their doom."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.27", "lines": ["As though the air rained swords, the blades flashed bright;", "The world was wrapped in mist throughout the fight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.28", "lines": ["The army’s dust concealed the mountain height;", "The stars drew in their skirts and hid their light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.29", "lines": ["Shapur laid Caesar’s great pavilion low,", "And overturned the dwelling of his foe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.30", "lines": ["They kindled fires in every place they found,", "As though to dash the heavens to the ground."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.31", "lines": ["They slew so many Romans in the fray,", "The plain was strewn with limbs where bodies lay."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.32", "lines": ["At last they seized proud Caesar in the raid;", "His fortunate star went dark and sank in shade."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.33", "lines": ["Among the tents were Caesar’s noble train,", "His chosen horsemen, brave upon the plain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.34", "lines": ["They seized and bound them, men of high renown;", "So turns the lofty sky above each crown:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.35", "lines": ["It lifts a man, then casts him down in fear;", "It grants delight, then brings his peril near."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.36", "lines": ["To live without oppression, kind and just,", "Is best; God aids the man who keeps that trust."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.37", "lines": ["When dawn arrived and night withdrew from sight,", "The sun’s bright banner filled the world with light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.38", "lines": ["Shapur called scribes with pen and paper near,", "With musk and sweet perfume among their gear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.39", "lines": ["To every province, king, and chief he wrote;", "These were the words that filled the royal note:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.40", "lines": ["He opened thus: “Let all our praise be poured", "From us, His servants, to the world’s great Lord."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.41", "lines": ["Praise be to God, whose aid makes goodness rise,", "Who needs no helper under all the skies."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.42", "lines": ["He made the ages and their onward flow;", "He teaches all the good that we may know."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.43", "lines": ["Since Caesar broke God’s law in ruthless pride,", "And sowed his wrong through Iran far and wide,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.44", "lines": ["His bonds now chafe him in his grief and pain,", "For wisdom never held his spirit’s rein."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.45", "lines": ["He yielded up Iran’s imperial crown,", "And kept but infamy for his renown."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.46", "lines": ["His court and army broke before God’s might;", "God showed our path and brought our cause to light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.47", "lines": ["Whatever Romans in your towns are found,", "Let all be struck by swords upon the ground."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.48", "lines": ["Seek justice, follow every royal claim,", "And swear your fresh allegiance to my name.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.49", "lines": ["Swift camel riders bore the royal page,", "And spread Shapur’s command from stage to stage."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.50", "lines": ["The Shah left camp and claimed the royal seat;", "In Tisfoon his counselors came to meet."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.51", "lines": ["He wore the ancient crown of royal gold,", "And thanked the Giver whom all worlds behold."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.52", "lines": ["He gave the gardener a robe of state,", "And gladdened him with honor rich and great."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.53", "lines": ["He sent a scribe to where the captives lay,", "To set their names in ink without delay."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.54", "lines": ["Eleven hundred two were found that day,", "Distinguished men of Rum’s renowned array."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.55", "lines": ["All these were Caesar’s kinsmen, men of fame,", "Whose noble houses bore a foremost name."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.56", "lines": ["The Shah cut off the hands and feet of those", "Who led the wrongs from which these sorrows rose."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.57", "lines": ["He bade them summon Caesar to his stand,", "The ruler and commander of that land."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.58", "lines": ["The guard dragged Caesar out, his hand held tight,", "Distraught, as though his mind had taken flight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.59", "lines": ["When he beheld Shapur’s imperial crown,", "From both his eyes the tears came streaming down."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.60", "lines": ["He pressed his blood-red face upon the ground,", "And blessed the throne and crown, bowed low and bound."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.61", "lines": ["He swept the earth with lashes, bending low,", "His chin pressed to the dust in grief and woe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.62", "lines": ["The Shah said, “You are evil through and through,", "A Christian, foe of God in all you do."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.63", "lines": ["You give a son to Him who stands alone,", "Whose life no start or final end has known."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.64", "lines": ["You know no speech but falsehood, wrong and dire;", "Lies give no light, though burning like a fire."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.65", "lines": ["Where were your wisdom, modesty, and heart,", "When you, as Caesar, played so base a part?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.66", "lines": ["Why bind me in an ass’s hide with shame,", "And cast to dust my royal rank and name?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.67", "lines": ["I came to feast in merchant’s hidden guise;", "I brought no tabiras, no battle cries."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.68", "lines": ["You bound your guest in hide, then chose to fight,", "And led your troops to Iran in your might."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.69", "lines": ["Now learn what Iran’s valiant warriors bring;", "Then seek no further war against its king.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.70", "lines": ["“Great Shah,” said Caesar, “who can flee God’s will?", "His word must come to pass, for good or ill."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.71", "lines": ["My royal throne drove wisdom from my mind,", "And made my soul the Div’s hired servant, blind."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.72", "lines": ["By doing good for evil, your renown", "Shall grow; the world shall hand your story down."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.73", "lines": ["Your name shall never age, nor fame expire;", "By prowess you will compass all desire;"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.74", "lines": ["Grant me my life; all wealth is dust to me;", "No gold or treasure then shall precious be."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.75", "lines": ["A slave, I shall attend your royal hall,", "And seek to grace your throne, and that is all.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.76", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Vile wretch, why overturn", "This land and leave its homes and fields to burn?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.77", "lines": ["Now every captive borne from Iran’s shore", "You must return, their liberty restore."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.78", "lines": ["Return the spoil you carried off to Rum;", "May you not see that cursed land: your doom."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.79", "lines": ["Bring all those riches from your house again,", "And give them to this band of noble men."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.80", "lines": ["Whatever lands in Iran you laid low,", "Where lions dwell and prowling leopards go,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.81", "lines": ["Restore at your own cost, with gold you pay,", "And thus requite the wrongs you brought our way."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.82", "lines": ["For each Iranian your soldiers slew,", "Choose men of royal Roman blood as due."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.83", "lines": ["Give ten for one in payment to our land,", "And pledge their lives as surety in my hand."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.84", "lines": ["I want no men but those of Caesar’s line,", "To live in joy within this land of mine."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.85", "lines": ["For every tree you felled in Iran’s ground—", "No good man fells the trees of those around—"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.86", "lines": ["Plant trees and clean up walls throughout the plain,", "And cool the wrath that burns through every vein."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.87", "lines": ["Now I shall bind you fast and hold you here;", "How could an ass’s hide be fitting gear?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.88", "lines": ["If you fall short of all that I have said,", "My men shall strip your skin from foot to head.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.89", "lines": ["He split both ears with khanjar’s sharpened blade,", "And through his nose a narrow passage made."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.90", "lines": ["He fixed a nose-rope, fastening through the slit,", "To answer ass-hide shame as he saw fit."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.91", "lines": ["He loaded both his feet with heavy chain;", "The guards led Caesar back through fear and pain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.92", "lines": ["They set the muster and accounts in train,", "And sought the keys to where the gold had lain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.93", "lines": ["The troops assembled; Shapur paid their due,", "While wrath and thoughts of vengeance in him grew."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.94", "lines": ["He marched from Iran into Roman land;", "Its people faced the fury of his band."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.95", "lines": ["They slew the people and set homes aflame.", "The world blazed up wherever that force came."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.96", "lines": ["News came to Rum: “Our fertile lands are torn,", "Their thriving fields and dwellings left forlorn."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.97", "lines": ["And Caesar has been taken in the fight,", "Amid the ranks in darkness of the night.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.98", "lines": ["The people wept; at Shapur’s dreaded name,", "Their hearts were burned as though consumed by flame."]}, {"id": "D8.1.7.99", "lines": ["They said, “Our thankless Caesar caused this blow;", "His reckless deeds have brought upon us woe.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.1", "lines": ["Though Caesar’s father had already died,", "His mother lived, his brother’s strength and guide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.2", "lines": ["His brother Yanus, young, rejoiced in life,", "Was generous, and sought a conqueror’s strife."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.3", "lines": ["The soldiers gathered at his palace gate;", "His warlike mother paid the troops of state."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.4", "lines": ["She said, “Avenge your brother; take your stand!", "Do you not see Iran’s troops in our land?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.5", "lines": ["Then Yanus burned with wrath: “We must not hide", "Our vengeance for my brother,” he replied."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.6", "lines": ["With tabiras he brought the Cross in sight,", "A mighty Cross, with troops of fearsome might."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.7", "lines": ["The armies met each other face to face;", "No warrior found a moment’s resting place."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.8", "lines": ["The ranks were formed; a mighty shout began;", "Yanus advanced before the Roman van."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.9", "lines": ["On one flank mountain walls rose sheer and wide;", "Along the other ran the river tide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.10", "lines": ["Black clouds of dust rose up and drowned the way;", "No rider saw the path before the fray."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.11", "lines": ["They fought until the sun turned yellow-gold,", "And battle’s dust rose round them, fold on fold."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.12", "lines": ["They slew so many that the ground became", "All iron from the armor on each frame."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.13", "lines": ["Shapur advanced his center for the fight,", "And called his chosen men from left and right."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.14", "lines": ["The Shah and chiefs spurred on; the earth below", "Shook as the swaying ranks met foe to foe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.15", "lines": ["He charged the Roman line with furious flame;", "And every rank was overthrown the same."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.16", "lines": ["Yanus perceived he could not stand his ground;", "He fled; his panicked troops streamed all around."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.17", "lines": ["Shapur pursued and darkened all the air;", "His clouds of dust obscured the heavens’ glare."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.18", "lines": ["On every side he heaped the Roman slain;", "And smeared with brains the earth along the plain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.19", "lines": ["The Roman dead lay strewn across the land,", "Heads without feet or trunks on every hand."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.20", "lines": ["No Roman ranks or crosses stood their ground;", "No fort let bishop or his cross be found."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.21", "lines": ["He gathered spoil until his troops were dazed,", "And all, astonished, at the treasure gazed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.22", "lines": ["He kept the wealth that Caesar had amassed,", "And all the other spoil to soldiers passed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.23", "lines": ["Yet all that treasure could not match the pain;", "The suffering outweighed the golden gain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.24", "lines": ["The Roman legions gathered, harsh and grim;", "They spoke of Caesar, laying blame on him."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.25", "lines": ["“Let Caesar’s name be driven from our state;", "No chief like this shall ever guide our fate.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.26", "lines": ["Rum’s altars, crosses, vestments met their fall;", "No sign of Christ remained among them all."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.27", "lines": ["The priests’ own girdles now to ash are turned;", "The archbishop’s own Cross is also burned."]}, {"id": "D8.1.8.28", "lines": ["Now Rum and Ghanooj stand alike in loss,", "For faint now sounds the summons of the Cross."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.1", "lines": ["Wise Baranush was full of counsel sound,", "In mind and speech his wisdom could be found."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.2", "lines": ["The army said, “Be Caesar; we are yours.", "Command this force, whose loyalty endures."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.3", "lines": ["The troops will heed each word that you convey;", "Adorn the throne and crown with bright display.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.4", "lines": ["They set for him a throne of ivory white,", "And there he sat, crowned in his royal light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.5", "lines": ["The Romans hailed him Caesar, one and all;", "And gave him royal rank within the hall."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.6", "lines": ["Then Baranush, for Rum’s sake, brooding deep,", "Weighed what the battlefield might make them reap."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.7", "lines": ["He knew that war against Iran’s great king", "Would death and ruin to the Romans bring."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.8", "lines": ["He chose an envoy, modest, shrewd, and wise,", "Whose gentle words could counsel and advise."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.9", "lines": ["A skilled and learned scribe, well trained in art,", "Experienced, clear of mind and true of heart."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.10", "lines": ["He bade the scribe sit near him, and declared", "His subtle counsels, pondered and prepared."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.11", "lines": ["The letter called for blessings from above,", "Upon the king of earth, with words of love:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.12", "lines": ["“May your crown last forever, bright and great;", "May all the chiefs serve humbly at your gate."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.13", "lines": ["You know that pillage, bloodshed, wrath outpoured,", "And swords turned on the guiltless are abhorred"]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.14", "lines": ["By noble men, in Rum and Iran too;", "They deem such acts a shame in all men’s view."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.15", "lines": ["If this old feud began with Iraj’s blood,", "Manuchehr answered it and stemmed the flood."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.16", "lines": ["Now Salm is dust, and Tur has passed away;", "The earth is cleared of him who caused dismay."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.17", "lines": ["If Dara’s feud with Iskandar now stirs", "In Rum again, and fresh dispute occurs,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.18", "lines": ["Two wicked ministers brought Dara low;", "From Iskandar good fortune turned to go."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.19", "lines": ["If Caesar caused this war, he bears your chain;", "The fetters chafe him now in bitter pain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.20", "lines": ["Let Rum not sink in desolating flame;", "No other land has ever matched her name."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.21", "lines": ["Now, if your purpose is to waste and slay,", "The Romans cannot fight or flee away."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.22", "lines": ["Their wives and children are your captives now,", "Or wounded where your swords and arrows plow."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.23", "lines": ["The time has come to set all wrath aside;", "No holy faith can sanction vengeful pride."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.24", "lines": ["Let all we own be paid as ransom dear,", "For this long feud wears down our lives with fear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.25", "lines": ["Be kind; do not burn cities without end;", "Such days must cease; let mercy now descend."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.26", "lines": ["The Maker will not praise a lord for wrong,", "Who seeks unjust revenge and keeps it strong."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.27", "lines": ["May God bless Shapur, and may his bright star", "Adorn the moon with glory from afar.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.28", "lines": ["The scribe laid down his pen, then folded tight", "The royal letter he had come to write."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.29", "lines": ["They pressed upon the letter Caesar’s seal;", "The envoy left to bear that grave appeal."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.30", "lines": ["He came to Shapur, ruler of the land,", "And placed the letter in his royal hand."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.31", "lines": ["They read the royal letter, clear and slow,", "And let its graceful words before him flow."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.32", "lines": ["His eyes filled up with tears; compassion stirred,", "His warrior’s brows grew knotted at each word."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.33", "lines": ["He wrote at once, recounting good and ill,", "And shaped his answer with a sovereign will."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.34", "lines": ["He said, “Who sewed his guest in ass’s hide?", "Who kindled all this ancient feud and pride?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.35", "lines": ["If you are wise, come freely to my side,", "With sound philosophers to be your guide."]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.36", "lines": ["I grant you quarter and forgo the fight;", "The wise have room beneath the heavens’ light.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.9.37", "lines": ["The envoy carried back the Shah’s reply,", "And spoke each word beneath the Roman sky."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.1", "lines": ["When Baranush received the Shah’s reply,", "Joy filled his noble heart and raised it high."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.2", "lines": ["He bade a hundred nobles leave their land", "And journey forth from Rum, a chosen band."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.3", "lines": ["Of silver coins, full sixty kharvars stored,", "With gems and costly robes, made up the hoard."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.4", "lines": ["For largess they amassed bright gold dinars,", "A hundred thousand, gleaming like the stars."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.5", "lines": ["Before the Shah they came, all humbly dressed,", "With heads left bare, their lowliness confessed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.6", "lines": ["They poured dinars before his royal seat,", "And strewed the gold with gems before his feet."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.7", "lines": ["Shapur received them with a gracious air,", "And seated each by rank with equal care."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.8", "lines": ["“From Rum too many men have come in shame,", "Accursed and unjust and crowned with blame."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.9", "lines": ["Where cities once in Iran rose in light,", "Thorn-brakes now spread, and beasts possess the site."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.10", "lines": ["I seek redress for every ruined place,", "Where lions, leopards, and beasts leave their trace.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.11", "lines": ["Then Baranush replied, “Say what you will;", "Since you gave quarter, let your wrath be still.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.12", "lines": ["The noble Shah replied, “If you would gain", "Full pardon, these are terms I now ordain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.13", "lines": ["Pay Roman gold three times in every year,", "Two hundred thousand dinars, bright and clear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.14", "lines": ["And give up Nasibin into my hand,", "If you would cool my vengeance on your land.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.15", "lines": ["Then Baranush: “Iran bows down to you;", "Nasibin and the warriors’ land bow too."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.16", "lines": ["I grant the tribute your decrees demand;", "Before your wrath and vengeance none can stand.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.17", "lines": ["Shapur agreed by treaty not to go", "Against Rum’s lands as an invading foe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.18", "lines": ["Except in friendship, he would send no force,", "And Rum must suffer nothing by its course."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.19", "lines": ["He sent the Roman lords away content,", "With gifts and honors fitting their descent."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.20", "lines": ["Once they had left, he led his men away,", "And thanked the Maker as he took his way."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.21", "lines": ["He turned to Istakhr, joyful in his heart,", "The pride of Pars, renowned in every part."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.22", "lines": ["When news of this reached Nasibin’s domain,", "The people armed in anger and disdain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.23", "lines": ["They cried, “Shapur shall never seize our hold,", "Nor raise above Nasibin banners bold."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.24", "lines": ["He is no Christian; fire is his law;", "He keeps the Zand-Avesta with due awe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.25", "lines": ["If he comes in, our cause he will not hear;", "We will not take his ancient faith through fear.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.26", "lines": ["The people’s will prevailed; the townsmen rose,", "And mounted up for war against their foes."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.27", "lines": ["Then word reached Shah Shapur that, at their call,", "His entry was denied by one and all."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.28", "lines": ["Against the Christian faith his fury burned;", "Against the town his countless troops he turned."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.29", "lines": ["He said, “I cannot praise the Gospel’s way,", "Whose founder died by Jewish hands that day.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.30", "lines": ["For one whole week they fought; within the town", "The crush of battle pressed the warriors down."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.31", "lines": ["Full many chiefs were slain; the rest were bound,", "With heavy chains upon the living wound."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.32", "lines": ["The citizens then begged the Shah for grace;", "They wrote to him and pleaded for their place."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.33", "lines": ["He pardoned them and bade the troops return;", "No longer should his wrath against them burn."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.34", "lines": ["He won renown through every earthly part,", "And gained the world through valor and great heart."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.35", "lines": ["They hailed him Shah, victorious in the fight;", "A while he held the crown and throne by right."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.36", "lines": ["The slave who freed him from his captive plight", "Had brought him back to fortune’s royal height."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.37", "lines": ["He named her Dilafruz Farrukhpish; above", "The other beauties, she possessed his love."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.38", "lines": ["He gave the gardener wealth and honored state,", "And sent him richly laden from the gate."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.39", "lines": ["But Caesar stayed in prison, bound and low,", "Confined in misery and bitter woe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.40", "lines": ["The treasure he had stored in Rum with pain,", "And toiled to gather in from every plain,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.41", "lines": ["He gave to Shapur; in his prison cell", "He lived awhile, with sighs his grief to tell."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.42", "lines": ["There Caesar died and left the crown of might,", "For other hands to hold beneath the light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.43", "lines": ["Then Shah Shapur dispatched the corpse to Rum,", "Coffined, with musk for crown, to find its tomb."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.44", "lines": ["He said, “This is our end, yet who can know", "Where we shall find our rest when we must go?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.45", "lines": ["One man is ruled by folly and by greed;", "Another, wise, has farr in thought and deed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.46", "lines": ["The days of both pass by beyond recall;", "Why should a wise man grieve at this at all?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.47", "lines": ["Victorious Shapur fulfilled his quest;", "He had avenged Iran’s wronged and oppressed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.48", "lines": ["He mounted then upon the royal seat,", "And ruled the world awhile, his sway complete."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.49", "lines": ["To Khuzian he sent, by royal will,", "A multitude, to fare for good or ill."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.50", "lines": ["He built a town for captives, fair and wide,", "And kept the world beyond its bounds outside."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.51", "lines": ["Khorram Abad he named that pleasant land;", "Who held its comforts by the Shah’s command?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.52", "lines": ["Those men whose hands he once had cut away", "Received that land, a place where they could stay."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.53", "lines": ["The town and all its lands were theirs by right;", "Each New Year brought a robe of honor bright."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.54", "lines": ["In Sham he raised a city by his power,", "And named it Pirooz Shapur from that hour."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.55", "lines": ["In Ahvaz rose a third town from his hands,", "With halls and hospitals upon its lands."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.56", "lines": ["They named it Kinam-e-Asiran, where", "The captives slept and found relief from care."]}, {"id": "D8.1.10.57", "lines": ["Now fifty years of rule had passed him here;", "The age had none his equal or his peer."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.1", "lines": ["From Chin there came a man of fluent speech,", "Whose painted art no earthborn hand could reach."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.2", "lines": ["Through that rare skill he gained his chosen aim,", "A forceful man, and Mani was his name."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.3", "lines": ["He said, “My painting proves my mission true;", "No prophet ranks above me, old or new.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.4", "lines": ["From Chin he came to Shapur’s royal hall,", "And asked his aid to spread his creed to all."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.5", "lines": ["So smooth his pleading that the Shah grew stirred,", "And doubt awoke with wonder at each word."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.6", "lines": ["He called the Mobadan to hear his claim,", "And spoke at length of Mani and his aim."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.7", "lines": ["“This fluent man from Chin has made me weigh", "His faith with doubt in all I hear him say."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.8", "lines": ["Converse with him; perhaps his words are right,", "And you may turn toward his faith and light.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.9", "lines": ["They said, “This man, to painted forms inclined,", "Cannot outmatch our high Mobad in mind."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.10", "lines": ["Hear Mani speak; then call the Mobad here;", "How will he speak when that sage should appear?”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.11", "lines": ["The Shah then summoned him; the sage drew near;", "He spoke at length, his argument made clear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.12", "lines": ["The high Mobad spoke of the ancient lore;", "And Mani faltered, checked, and said no more."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.13", "lines": ["“You worshipper of pictures, why raise high", "Your rash hand against God who made the sky?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.14", "lines": ["He made the lofty heavens in their prime,", "And set within them all of space and time."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.15", "lines": ["Within those heavens light and darkness meet;", "Above them all His essence stands complete."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.16", "lines": ["Those nights and days that heaven’s wheel supplies", "Bring safety, loss, and grief before our eyes."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.17", "lines": ["Why take a painted image as your guide,", "And cast the counsel of the Faith aside?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.18", "lines": ["The Faithful say: serve God, the only One;", "No other path is right beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.19", "lines": ["If you can make your painted figures move,", "Then show what those same moving forms can prove."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.20", "lines": ["Your proof is nothing; none will call it sound,", "Nor hold your painted argument profound."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.21", "lines": ["If Ahriman could equal God in might,", "Then darkest night would be like day in light."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.22", "lines": ["Through all the year their equal lengths would reign,", "And neither wax nor wane through loss or gain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.23", "lines": ["No place contains the Maker, nor can time;", "Above them both He stands, alone, sublime."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.24", "lines": ["Your words are madness; none will take your side,", "Or stand with you in what you have replied.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.25", "lines": ["The Mobad spoke much more, with wisdom clear,", "And courage in the words he uttered here."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.26", "lines": ["And Mani found no answer to devise.", "His flourishing success fell in their eyes."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.27", "lines": ["Then Shah Shapur grew angry at his claim;", "The turning world closed round him in his shame."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.28", "lines": ["Shapur commanded men to seize him fast,", "And drag him from the court, disgraced, aghast."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.29", "lines": ["The Shah said, “He who worships painted guise", "Has no fit place beneath the living skies."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.30", "lines": ["Since all the world’s unrest springs from his sin,", "From head to foot strip off his body’s skin."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.31", "lines": ["Then stuff his skin with straw, that none may dare", "To claim the rank this man presumed to bear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.32", "lines": ["Then hang that skin upon the city gate,", "Or at the hospital display his fate.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.33", "lines": ["They did as Shah Shapur had told them to,", "And hung him at that place for all to view."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.34", "lines": ["The people blessed the Shah, and all around", "Cast dust upon the slain man on the ground."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.35", "lines": ["Through Shapur’s rule such happy days they knew,", "Among the garden’s roses no thorn grew."]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.36", "lines": ["Through justice, judgment, learning, faith, and might,", "Through bounty and his prowess in the fight,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.11.37", "lines": ["No enemy remained in his domain;", "No home for evil could on earth remain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.1", "lines": ["When hope from heaven no longer lit his sight,", "Past seventy, his years drew on toward night."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.2", "lines": ["He summoned forth the Mobad and the scribe,", "And Ardeshir, the noblest of his tribe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.3", "lines": ["Ardeshir still was young, with justice crowned,", "And wisdom’s counsel in his spirit found."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.4", "lines": ["The Shah had but one son, Shapur by name,", "An infant not yet ripened into fame."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.5", "lines": ["Before the scribes and nobles there arrayed,", "The king made known the purpose he had weighed:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.6", "lines": ["“If you will pledge your faith to me today,", "And bind your word to all that I shall say,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.7", "lines": ["Then when my son shall reach a man’s estate,", "And greatness claims him through his royal fate,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.8", "lines": ["Resign the crown and army to his hand,", "And serve as minister at his command."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.9", "lines": ["Then I commit the crown of kings to you,", "With troops and treasure held for him as due.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.10", "lines": ["Ardeshir pledged before the great and wise,", "The scribe a witness to his firm replies:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.11", "lines": ["“When Shapur’s son has reached a man’s full height,", "And merits crown and throne and royal right,"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.12", "lines": ["I shall restore his kingship, as agreed,", "And wish him well in every word and deed.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.13", "lines": ["Before the lords, Shapur made clear his will,", "Gave crown and signet, and spoke further still:"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.14", "lines": ["“Take seriously the world and all its cares;", "Let no neglect intrude on its affairs."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.15", "lines": ["I yield the royal diadem to you;", "Let justice guide the rule that you pursue."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.16", "lines": ["The unjust king neglects the state he leads;", "He has no thought for what his kingdom needs."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.17", "lines": ["He takes delight in hoarding wealth alone,", "And greedier than all the great is shown."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.18", "lines": ["The just king’s subjects love what he bestows;", "Blessed the king who walks the path God shows."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.19", "lines": ["By equity and bounty he grows great;", "He guides all hearts in Faith throughout his state."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.20", "lines": ["He guards his kingdom safely from the foe,", "And lifts his head and crown where high clouds flow."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.21", "lines": ["By justice and by peace he gathers gold;", "By gifts he frees the heart from troubles old."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.22", "lines": ["He pardons wrongs that other men may do,", "Yet keeps his human kindness firm and true."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.23", "lines": ["Whoever seeks these virtues needs to find", "Sound judgment, vigilance, a prudent mind."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.24", "lines": ["Kings must be wise, and all their people teach,", "And keep God’s path within their subjects’ reach."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.25", "lines": ["The subjects sin, except the pure of heart,", "Who worship God and keep from sin apart."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.26", "lines": ["The heart and brain are rulers of the frame;", "The other limbs are troops that serve their aim."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.27", "lines": ["When heart and brain are darkened and defiled,", "Despair drives counsel out, and thought runs wild."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.28", "lines": ["The life within that frame becomes distressed;", "No troop without command can ever rest."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.29", "lines": ["Without the light, the troops disperse and fly;", "The lifeless body in the dust must lie."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.30", "lines": ["So with an unjust king: his violent crown", "Turns all the world beneath him upside down."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.31", "lines": ["When he is dead, his curse will not depart;", "Men call him impious in their speech and heart."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.32", "lines": ["Keep sight and wrath within the Faith’s own law,", "For both belong to Him; hold them in awe."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.33", "lines": ["From any king who from this path would stray,", "Let hope of goodness wholly fall away."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.34", "lines": ["His subjects scatter from his ruined state;", "His loyal servants leave his royal gate."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.35", "lines": ["Do you not hear the counsel of the wise,", "Which cleans your heart of crookedness and lies?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.36", "lines": ["The king whose conduct earns the praise of men", "Will see his fortunes grow and grow again."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.37", "lines": ["The tyrant earns reproach; do not remain", "About the gates of men consumed by gain."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.38", "lines": ["Know this, my brother: sages say a king", "Needs four great virtues under fortune’s wing."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.39", "lines": ["First, he must conquer, never turn away", "From foes who meet him on the battle day."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.40", "lines": ["Second, he must treat soldiers justly too,", "And give the high-born men their proper due."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.41", "lines": ["One fit for kingship never casts the great", "Among the common ranks in low estate."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.42", "lines": ["Third, he must stand upright and guard the right,", "And never cast a rightful claim from sight."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.43", "lines": ["And fourth, to subjects and old servants near,", "His treasury must open without fear."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.44", "lines": ["From fruitful branches let his riches fall,", "And let his generous bounty nourish all."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.45", "lines": ["A king’s gate must not stand without his men;", "His treasure feeds the guards who serve him then."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.46", "lines": ["Through justice let your treasure-house be stored;", "Rejoice in it, by all your troops adored."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.47", "lines": ["Regard your arms as fitting to your might;", "They may yet serve you well some darkened night."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.48", "lines": ["Trust not your guards too far; attend your own", "Affairs, if you would stand secure alone."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.49", "lines": ["Whether obscure or lustrous in your age,", "Death will at last erase the royal page.”"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.50", "lines": ["His brother wept; the counsel written clear,", "Shapur lived on for one remaining year."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.51", "lines": ["He passed, but left his words for all to heed;", "Sow not within this world the seed of greed."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.52", "lines": ["Your days will pass; your foes will reap the field,", "And take the fruit your lifelong labors yield."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.53", "lines": ["When Ormozd’s laws and Bahman’s rule endure,", "This palace stands a happy home secure."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.54", "lines": ["Bring ruby wine to me, O Hashimi,", "From jars that know no ebb or scarcity."]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.55", "lines": ["At sixty-three, though deaf, why should I prize", "The world’s regard, which fades before my eyes?"]}, {"id": "D8.1.12.56", "lines": ["Now I will sing; attend the words I bring:", "The tale of Ardeshir, the noble king."]}, {"id": "D8.2.1", "lines": ["When Ardeshir sat on the throne of old,", "He graced the seat that Shapur used to hold."]}, {"id": "D8.2.2", "lines": ["He bound his belt and called Iran’s chiefs near,", "Beneath the golden throne to sit and hear."]}, {"id": "D8.2.3", "lines": ["He said, “I wish that heaven’s turning might", "Bring harm to none beneath its circling height."]}, {"id": "D8.2.4", "lines": ["The world shall rest beneath my peaceful will,", "If it obeys and keeps allegiance still."]}, {"id": "D8.2.5", "lines": ["But if this giddy world should turn aside,", "We shall find means to meet its changing tide."]}, {"id": "D8.2.6", "lines": ["My brother left the realm within my hand,", "His son too young to rule or to command."]}, {"id": "D8.2.7", "lines": ["May blessings on my brother’s spirit rest;", "He cleansed the earth of those by spite possessed."]}, {"id": "D8.2.8", "lines": ["When Shapur, son of Shapur, fully grown,", "Shall learn to prize the royal crown and throne,"]}, {"id": "D8.2.9", "lines": ["I shall give crown and treasure, all his men;", "As pledged to Shah Shapur, I yield them then."]}, {"id": "D8.2.10", "lines": ["I am his deputy in royal state;", "His father’s legacy for him must wait."]}, {"id": "D8.2.11", "lines": ["Let all of you remember what is right;", "Uphold just law and custom with your might."]}, {"id": "D8.2.12", "lines": ["What we enjoyed has passed beyond our care;", "At death, our labor turns to empty air.”"]}, {"id": "D8.2.13", "lines": ["For ten full years he ruled with generous hand,", "Enjoyed his wealth, and gave at his command."]}, {"id": "D8.2.14", "lines": ["He asked no tribute, toll, or tax to hold", "His throne, nor charged the people, young or old."]}, {"id": "D8.2.15", "lines": ["They called him Beneficent for his reign,", "For all beneath his rule were free from strain."]}, {"id": "D8.2.16", "lines": ["When young Shapur was fit to claim his right,", "He gave him that blessed crown, the royal light."]}, {"id": "D8.2.17", "lines": ["He kept his covenant and held his course,", "With honor and a valiant spirit’s force."]}, {"id": "D8.3.1", "lines": ["When Shapur took the crown his uncle wore,", "In Iran, many cheered; some hearts were sore."]}, {"id": "D8.3.2", "lines": ["He spoke before the men of noble lore,", "And seasoned Mobadan with counsel’s store:"]}, {"id": "D8.3.3", "lines": ["“Know this: from now, we shall not favor lies;", "Nor shall a liar win before our eyes."]}, {"id": "D8.3.4", "lines": ["False speech is no sound counsel for the great;", "Sound judgment will sustain their high estate."]}, {"id": "D8.3.5", "lines": ["Do not befriend the worthless or the base;", "Let no thorn in your garden find a place."]}, {"id": "D8.3.6", "lines": ["The man of wisdom mocks no living soul;", "Let no such taunt escape his mind’s control."]}, {"id": "D8.3.7", "lines": ["Keep watch upon your tongue in all you say;", "Do not let poison eat your soul away."]}, {"id": "D8.3.8", "lines": ["Who speaks too much within the council hall", "Will see his name and reputation fall."]}, {"id": "D8.3.9", "lines": ["But when a sage speaks, listen to his word;", "No learning ages that is truly heard."]}, {"id": "D8.3.10", "lines": ["The greedy carry aching hearts within;", "Keep clear of greed, and do not dwell with sin."]}, {"id": "D8.3.11", "lines": ["Make neither liars nor the base your friends,", "Nor those whose counsel serves dishonorable ends."]}, {"id": "D8.3.12", "lines": ["Four qualities compose a noble man;", "Let every man acquire them as he can."]}, {"id": "D8.3.13", "lines": ["First, skill and modesty with justice stand;", "Then, let a single, honest heart command."]}, {"id": "D8.3.14", "lines": ["Third, be moderate, and content with fate,", "And welcome fortune, whether small or great."]}, {"id": "D8.3.15", "lines": ["Fourth, speak no empty words to win acclaim;", "Nor boast in ignorance to gain a name."]}, {"id": "D8.3.16", "lines": ["The noble heart gains both worlds as its part;", "No joy abides within the churlish heart."]}, {"id": "D8.3.17", "lines": ["Here, evil fame shall follow where they tread;", "No Paradise awaits them with the dead."]}, {"id": "D8.3.18", "lines": ["The boastful man’s brief course ends in disgrace;", "He scatters all his wealth at reckless pace."]}, {"id": "D8.3.19", "lines": ["But he is praised who chooses measured ways,", "And crowns his life with blessings all his days."]}, {"id": "D8.3.20", "lines": ["May your Creator bless you day by day;", "May fortune’s favor prosper all your way."]}, {"id": "D8.3.21", "lines": ["May He aid us and keep our kingship strong;", "The throne of greatness rests with none for long.”"]}, {"id": "D8.3.22", "lines": ["The nobles rose to praise Shapur, and prayed", "That God would bless his rule and lend him aid."]}, {"id": "D8.3.23", "lines": ["When five years and four months had passed away,", "The Shah went hunting; fate was on its way."]}, {"id": "D8.3.24", "lines": ["The plain was filled with cheetahs, hawks, and hounds,", "Some wheeled above, while others coursed the grounds."]}, {"id": "D8.3.25", "lines": ["A tent was pitched to serve as resting-place;", "The Shah ate there, then rested from the chase."]}, {"id": "D8.3.26", "lines": ["He drank three goblets full of royal wine,", "Then sank in thought and let his limbs recline."]}, {"id": "D8.3.27", "lines": ["His comrades left him sleeping where he lay,", "And scattered through the plain upon their way."]}, {"id": "D8.3.28", "lines": ["Then from the plain a mighty tempest came,", "So fierce no living man recalled the same."]}, {"id": "D8.3.29", "lines": ["The gale tore loose the tent’s supporting frame,", "And struck the monarch’s head with deadly aim."]}, {"id": "D8.3.30", "lines": ["The valiant Shapur died upon the plain,", "And left the crown for other hands to gain."]}, {"id": "D8.3.31", "lines": ["Work, feast, and play; do not consume your heart;", "Why seek revenge or hoard what must depart?"]}, {"id": "D8.3.32", "lines": ["Within this gloomy sphere accept your share;", "Seek virtue; leave the riddle, and forbear."]}, {"id": "D8.3.33", "lines": ["To solve it only wrings the soul with pain;", "So do not pry; let mystery remain."]}, {"id": "D8.4.1", "lines": ["Shapur had left a son, still young in age,", "Yet rich in knowledge, worthy of a sage."]}, {"id": "D8.4.2", "lines": ["Wise, worthy Shah Bahram was bowed with grief,", "And mourned his father, finding no relief."]}, {"id": "D8.4.3", "lines": ["When he was seated on the throne of power,", "He spoke before the court in that high hour:"]}, {"id": "D8.4.4", "lines": ["“The treasure kings through justice make their own", "Will not be scattered from the royal throne."]}, {"id": "D8.4.5", "lines": ["May holy God be pleased with us, and shroud", "The heart of every foe in sorrow’s cloud."]}, {"id": "D8.4.6", "lines": ["All knowledge is His own; His servants we", "Increase and dwindle under His decree."]}, {"id": "D8.4.7", "lines": ["He rules in truth and justice without cease;", "His kingdom knows no loss and no increase."]}, {"id": "D8.4.8", "lines": ["Whoever gives with open, lavish hand", "Is wise, alert, and quick to understand."]}, {"id": "D8.4.9", "lines": ["He must not lock his treasure out of sight,", "And least of all the king who guards the right."]}, {"id": "D8.4.10", "lines": ["If you possess a wealth of words to spend,", "Give freely; knowledge never finds an end."]}, {"id": "D8.4.11", "lines": ["Incline to God through days of good and ill,", "If you would keep your virtue steadfast still."]}, {"id": "D8.4.12", "lines": ["Know good and ill alike from God are sent;", "Your wage is heaven’s joy, and never spent."]}, {"id": "D8.4.13", "lines": ["But if you chase this world’s vain pleasures’ call,", "Your soul remains a captive in will’s thrall."]}, {"id": "D8.4.14", "lines": ["I trust in holy God that when my head", "Is laid within the dark and earthen bed,"]}, {"id": "D8.4.15", "lines": ["He may account me as a king of might,", "Victorious, who filled the world with light."]}, {"id": "D8.4.16", "lines": ["Is justice not more worthy of acclaim", "Than riches seized by force in deeds of shame?"]}, {"id": "D8.4.17", "lines": ["Our labors here remain when we are clay;", "Our treasure falls to enemies as prey."]}, {"id": "D8.4.18", "lines": ["We leave remembrance, whether foul or fair;", "Do not sow seeds of evil anywhere.”"]}, {"id": "D8.4.19", "lines": ["When fourteen years of royal rule had sped,", "The garden’s graceful cypress bowed its head."]}, {"id": "D8.4.20", "lines": ["The Shah lay sick; his anxious people wept,", "And through his long affliction vigil kept."]}, {"id": "D8.4.21", "lines": ["He had a daughter, but he had no son;", "He had a younger brother, only one."]}, {"id": "D8.4.22", "lines": ["They called him Yazdegard, a royal name;", "An honored youth, intent on winning fame."]}, {"id": "D8.4.23", "lines": ["He bade young Yazdegard come to his side,", "And all the men assemble far and wide."]}, {"id": "D8.4.24", "lines": ["He gave him troops and treasure, crown and throne,", "The royal signet; all to be his own."]}, {"id": "D8.4.25", "lines": ["When fourteen years of rule had passed away,", "The youthful Shah then left the light of day."]}, {"id": "D8.4.26", "lines": ["Old man, now sixty-three, why make a song", "Of wine, and let its praises run so long?"]}, {"id": "D8.4.27", "lines": ["Your day may pass before you know its end;", "Choose wisdom; let repentance be your friend."]}, {"id": "D8.4.28", "lines": ["May God approve His servant’s words and deeds;", "Let wisdom fund the gains my verse now breeds."]}, {"id": "D8.4.29", "lines": ["I split fine hairs in speech; the threads I twine", "Are woven in the dark to make each line."]}, {"id": "D8.4.30", "lines": ["If I complete in age what I began,", "Why should it seem a marvel in a man?"]}, {"id": "D8.4.31", "lines": ["Through that sword-bearing king, whose head stands tall", "Above the gathered nobles, one and all."]}, {"id": "D8.4.32", "lines": ["May his throne be the crown the moon shall gain;", "And may the age submit to his domain."]}, {"id": "D8.4.33", "lines": ["From him comes joy; with him abides the name,", "And may the crown rejoice to bear his fame."]}, {"id": "D8.4.34", "lines": ["In knowledge and in majesty may he", "Walk on from every foeman’s clutches free."]}]}, {"id": "D9", "title": "Yazdegard I and the Rise of Bahram Goor", "summary": "13 sections · 692 couplets", "path": "/poem/d9/", "couplets": [{"id": "D9.1.1", "lines": ["When Yazdegard was crowned, his heart grew proud;", "He called the soldiers round him in a crowd."]}, {"id": "D9.1.2", "lines": ["He set his brother’s crown upon his head,", "And felt delight to know his brother dead."]}, {"id": "D9.1.3", "lines": ["He spoke before the nobles of the land:", "“All who love justice, heed my firm command."]}, {"id": "D9.1.4", "lines": ["First offer praise to God, then let each heart", "Rejoice in all the justice we impart."]}, {"id": "D9.1.5", "lines": ["Give honor to the wise, whose minds discern;", "Kill those whose hands to evil action turn."]}, {"id": "D9.1.6", "lines": ["Whoever seeks our justice shall find rest", "From wrong and want that keep his life oppressed."]}, {"id": "D9.1.7", "lines": ["His station everywhere we shall increase;", "From greed and vengeance let the heart find peace."]}, {"id": "D9.1.8", "lines": ["Only the great and Mobadan advise,", "The shrewd of heart, with truth before their eyes."]}, {"id": "D9.1.9", "lines": ["But he whose faults have stained his very soul,", "Whom wickedness makes drunk beyond control,"]}, {"id": "D9.1.10", "lines": ["Who crushes helpless men beneath his feet,", "And lifts his neck through wealth and self-conceit,"]}, {"id": "D9.1.11", "lines": ["We will resist and strip his power away,", "And grant the poor more favor day by day."]}, {"id": "D9.1.12", "lines": ["Who scorns our anger and, before our eyes,", "Makes insolence his guide, our will defies,"]}, {"id": "D9.1.13", "lines": ["His neck seeks Indian steel; his body must", "Find bed in earth, and rest upon the dust."]}, {"id": "D9.1.14", "lines": ["Attend my bidding; let it clear your sight,", "And wear your wisdom like a breastplate bright.”"]}, {"id": "D9.1.15", "lines": ["The men whose hope was gorz and sharpened blade", "All shook like willows, trembling and afraid."]}, {"id": "D9.1.16", "lines": ["Once he was firmly settled in his reign,", "His greatness grew; his love began to wane."]}, {"id": "D9.1.17", "lines": ["He scorned the sages; all the ancient ways", "Of kingship fell from use beneath his gaze."]}, {"id": "D9.1.18", "lines": ["Governors, Pahlevans, and nobles great,", "And learned Mobadan who served the state,"]}, {"id": "D9.1.19", "lines": ["Were wind to him; his soul grew dark within,", "And made a trade of tyranny and sin."]}, {"id": "D9.1.20", "lines": ["Love fled his soul, and justice left his reign;", "He answered no petitions brought in pain."]}, {"id": "D9.1.21", "lines": ["No man held any standing in his sight;", "At once he punished any fault outright."]}, {"id": "D9.1.22", "lines": ["The ministers who helped his fortune rise", "And raised his crown in honor in men’s eyes,"]}, {"id": "D9.1.23", "lines": ["All pledged that none would speak before the throne", "Of that afflicted realm, or make it known."]}, {"id": "D9.1.24", "lines": ["All writhed in fear beneath his heavy hand;", "His terror left them lifeless through the land."]}, {"id": "D9.1.25", "lines": ["When envoys came, or subjects sought redress,", "And begged protection in their deep distress,"]}, {"id": "D9.1.26", "lines": ["A minister, apprised of every suit,", "Would hasten forth to hear each one’s dispute."]}, {"id": "D9.1.27", "lines": ["With gentle voice he sent them on their way,", "And spoke with shame the words he had to say:"]}, {"id": "D9.1.28", "lines": ["“The Shah will not attend to state affairs;", "No path to him is open for your prayers."]}, {"id": "D9.1.29", "lines": ["I told him all your case and every plea,", "But little justice governs his decree.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.1", "lines": ["When seven years of Yazdegard had passed,", "Oppressed, the Mobadan stood pale, aghast."]}, {"id": "D9.2.2", "lines": ["In Farvardin, when year eight had begun,", "The world beheld the Faith’s returning sun."]}, {"id": "D9.2.3", "lines": ["On Ormozd’s day he had a child whose birth", "Bore happy stars and omens bright for earth."]}, {"id": "D9.2.4", "lines": ["His father named him Bahram, and the boy", "Filled all his father’s heart with boundless joy."]}, {"id": "D9.2.5", "lines": ["At court were astrologers, skilled and wise;", "A prudent king should heed their searching eyes."]}, {"id": "D9.2.6", "lines": ["The Indian lord Soroush stood at his side,", "With judgment clear and wisdom as his guide."]}, {"id": "D9.2.7", "lines": ["An Iranian, Hushyar, versed in that lore,", "Could bridle heaven with the skill he bore."]}, {"id": "D9.2.8", "lines": ["These prudent seekers of the Way drew near,", "Before the Shah when summons reached their ear."]}, {"id": "D9.2.9", "lines": ["They gauged the stars with astrolabes in hand,", "And read the Roman tables, closely scanned."]}, {"id": "D9.2.10", "lines": ["They read his hidden fortune in the sky:", "The child would rule the world, his station high."]}, {"id": "D9.2.11", "lines": ["The seven climes would bow beneath his might;", "A glad and pious king would guard the right."]}, {"id": "D9.2.12", "lines": ["They came before the Shah without delay,", "With charts and astrolabes in full array."]}, {"id": "D9.2.13", "lines": ["They said, “We gathered knowledge of each kind,", "And searched the heavens with instructed mind."]}, {"id": "D9.2.14", "lines": ["We learned that heaven loves this noble child;", "Its favor on his infant fortune smiled."]}, {"id": "D9.2.15", "lines": ["The seven climes shall bow before his name;", "His mighty reign shall win enduring fame.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.16", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced to hear the words they bore,", "And gave them royal jewels from his store."]}, {"id": "D9.2.17", "lines": ["When they had left, the chiefs remained behind,", "With ministers and Mobadan combined."]}, {"id": "D9.2.18", "lines": ["They sat in counsel, seeking how to raise", "The child in wisdom and in righteous ways."]}, {"id": "D9.2.19", "lines": ["If he escaped his father’s evil way,", "He would become a just king in his day."]}, {"id": "D9.2.20", "lines": ["“If he should share that nature,” said the wise,", "“He will bring ruin under royal skies."]}, {"id": "D9.2.21", "lines": ["The Mobadan and Pahlevans will grieve;", "His soul no joy or brightness shall perceive.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.22", "lines": ["Then all the Mobadan, with loyal care,", "Approached the Shah and laid their counsel bare."]}, {"id": "D9.2.23", "lines": ["They said, “This lively child is free from blame;", "No charge or slander can approach his name."]}, {"id": "D9.2.24", "lines": ["The world now rests beneath your royal hand;", "Each clime pays tribute, pledged to your command."]}, {"id": "D9.2.25", "lines": ["Seek out a land where learned men abound,", "And through their knowledge peace and ease are found."]}, {"id": "D9.2.26", "lines": ["Choose there a fosterer of honored name,", "Whose country blesses him for all his fame."]}, {"id": "D9.2.27", "lines": ["Let this good prince gain virtue from his guide,", "And let his rule spread joy on every side.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.28", "lines": ["The Shah, on hearing this, called envoys near,", "And sent them far beyond each known frontier."]}, {"id": "D9.2.29", "lines": ["To Rum, to Hind, to Chin, and distant lands,", "He sent his messengers with firm commands."]}, {"id": "D9.2.30", "lines": ["A chief went to the Arabs to discern", "What good or ill their country might return."]}, {"id": "D9.2.31", "lines": ["A crier went through every distant place,", "To seek a tutor fit for Bahram’s grace."]}, {"id": "D9.2.32", "lines": ["An eloquent and learned scribe they sought,", "Who read the stars and kept what he was taught."]}, {"id": "D9.2.33", "lines": ["From every clime wise Mobadan then came,", "Accomplished and renowned in art and name."]}, {"id": "D9.2.34", "lines": ["As each one reached the court and royal sight,", "He sought to guide the prince and teach him right."]}, {"id": "D9.2.35", "lines": ["He questioned them, and honored every guest,", "And settled them in homes from east to west."]}, {"id": "D9.2.36", "lines": ["At night went Numan, Monzer at his side,", "With Arab spearmen famous far and wide."]}, {"id": "D9.2.37", "lines": ["When all these chiefs in Pars had gathered round,", "They came before the Shah on royal ground."]}, {"id": "D9.2.38", "lines": ["They said, “We are your slaves who wait your will,", "To answer and obey your counsel still."]}, {"id": "D9.2.39", "lines": ["Such times require a noble man to raise", "The royal son in learning’s worthy ways."]}, {"id": "D9.2.40", "lines": ["To take him in and teach him what is right,", "And clear his heart of darkness through that light."]}, {"id": "D9.2.41", "lines": ["From Rum and Hind and Pars, men here are wise", "In measured forms and motions of the skies."]}, {"id": "D9.2.42", "lines": ["Philosophers and speakers, versed in lore,", "And men of practice stand before your door."]}, {"id": "D9.2.43", "lines": ["We all are dust beneath your royal feet,", "And guides to knowledge, if you find us meet."]}, {"id": "D9.2.44", "lines": ["Look well, and choose which one is fit for you,", "And who can make your purpose sound and true.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.45", "lines": ["Then Monzer spoke: “We are your slaves, your own;", "We live for nothing but the royal throne."]}, {"id": "D9.2.46", "lines": ["The Shah knows all our skills; within his keep,", "He is the shepherd, we his flock of sheep."]}, {"id": "D9.2.47", "lines": ["We ride with courage, skilled in horse and spear,", "More than a match for sages gathered here."]}, {"id": "D9.2.48", "lines": ["We have no readers of the stars or signs,", "No men who track the sky with figured lines."]}, {"id": "D9.2.49", "lines": ["Our hearts are full of love for him who reigns;", "Beneath us Arab horses race the plains."]}, {"id": "D9.2.50", "lines": ["We serve your son, and praise his royal name;", "His greatness is the glory we proclaim.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.51", "lines": ["When Yazdegard had heard what Monzer said,", "He weighed the matter deeply in his head."]}, {"id": "D9.2.52", "lines": ["He saw the end within the first design,", "And gave him Bahram, child of royal line."]}, {"id": "D9.2.53", "lines": ["The Shah commanded robes of honor brought,", "And raised Monzer in rank beyond all thought."]}, {"id": "D9.2.54", "lines": ["They robed the king of Yemen in the hall,", "Then brought his royal mount before them all."]}, {"id": "D9.2.55", "lines": ["From Yazdegard’s high court toward the plain", "Went camels, horses, litters in a train."]}, {"id": "D9.2.56", "lines": ["With slaves and nurses in a countless throng,", "The train through every marketplace stretched long."]}, {"id": "D9.2.57", "lines": ["The roads through every bazaar were hung bright,", "From gate to court, with color, wealth, and light."]}, {"id": "D9.2.58", "lines": ["When Monzer entered Yemen once again,", "The roads were thronged by women and by men."]}, {"id": "D9.2.59", "lines": ["Once he had reached his home, he searched for rare", "And noble women, capable and fair."]}, {"id": "D9.2.60", "lines": ["From Arab and Iranian houses great,", "He sought among the rich of honored state."]}, {"id": "D9.2.61", "lines": ["From these great houses he chose women four,", "Whose birth and skill were plain in all they bore."]}, {"id": "D9.2.62", "lines": ["Two Arabs, two of Kayanian descent,", "To nurse the child with all their skill were sent."]}, {"id": "D9.2.63", "lines": ["They nursed the child and tended him four years,", "With careful love, protecting him from fears."]}, {"id": "D9.2.64", "lines": ["When milk had filled him out and strength now grew,", "They weaned him, though the task was hard to do."]}, {"id": "D9.2.65", "lines": ["They reared him delicately, day by day,", "Until at seven he spoke in princely way."]}, {"id": "D9.2.66", "lines": ["He said, “O chief, no suckling child am I;", "Do not still nurse me while my years go by."]}, {"id": "D9.2.67", "lines": ["Entrust me to the learned; do not slight", "My need to learn, or leave my mind in night.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.68", "lines": ["Monzer replied, “Not yet, my prince, not yet;", "The hour for formal learning is not set."]}, {"id": "D9.2.69", "lines": ["When that time comes and you are fit to learn,", "I will not let you idly from it turn."]}, {"id": "D9.2.70", "lines": ["But play now shapes the body as it grows,", "And gives the child the strength the warrior knows.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.71", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Do not suppose me slow;", "Though young in years, I know what I should know."]}, {"id": "D9.2.72", "lines": ["Though neck and chest are not yet fit to fight,", "My mind is strong and reaches toward the light."]}, {"id": "D9.2.73", "lines": ["Your years are many, but your wisdom small;", "You do not know my nature well at all."]}, {"id": "D9.2.74", "lines": ["Who seeks the fitting time must first discern", "Which task comes first, and which must wait its turn."]}, {"id": "D9.2.75", "lines": ["If you seek out the time amiss, you find", "That anxious thoughts consume your heart and mind."]}, {"id": "D9.2.76", "lines": ["Work out of season bears no fruit to claim;", "The head stands first within the human frame."]}, {"id": "D9.2.77", "lines": ["Teach me whatever suits a king to know,", "So I may learn the worth his acts should show."]}, {"id": "D9.2.78", "lines": ["True knowledge must come first; blessed is the one", "Who sees the end before the work’s begun.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.79", "lines": ["Then Monzer gazed at him with deep surprise,", "And whispered praise to God beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "D9.2.80", "lines": ["He sent a chief on dromedary’s back", "To Sursan, urging haste along the track."]}, {"id": "D9.2.81", "lines": ["The envoy found three Mobadan of renown,", "Accomplished, learned, esteemed within that town."]}, {"id": "D9.2.82", "lines": ["One came to teach the young prince how to write,", "And flood his heart’s dark corners with clear light."]}, {"id": "D9.2.83", "lines": ["The second taught the hawk and cheetah’s art,", "A skill to kindle gladness in the heart."]}, {"id": "D9.2.84", "lines": ["Then polo, bow, and arrow trained his hand,", "With wheeling swordplay, swift at his command."]}, {"id": "D9.2.85", "lines": ["He learned to turn the reins both left and right,", "To raise his spear and stand erect in fight."]}, {"id": "D9.2.86", "lines": ["The third instructed him in kingly arts,", "Administration, rule, and all their parts."]}, {"id": "D9.2.87", "lines": ["He taught him all a monarch should recall,", "The forms and duties needed to rule all."]}, {"id": "D9.2.88", "lines": ["When these three Mobadan reached Monzer’s court,", "They spoke with him at length and made report."]}, {"id": "D9.2.89", "lines": ["He placed the prince beneath their learned rule,", "And, learned warrior, taught him in their school."]}, {"id": "D9.2.90", "lines": ["Bahram, that royal seed, became so trained", "That every manly art was soon attained."]}, {"id": "D9.2.91", "lines": ["Whenever some new art was brought to sight,", "He longed to master it with keen delight."]}, {"id": "D9.2.92", "lines": ["At twelve the warrior shone as shines the sun,", "And every course his teachers set was done."]}, {"id": "D9.2.93", "lines": ["In books, in polo, with the hawk in flight,", "And cheetah, he required no further light."]}, {"id": "D9.2.94", "lines": ["In battle he could turn the reins at speed,", "Or charge and wheel and urge his racing steed."]}, {"id": "D9.2.95", "lines": ["He said to Monzer, “Man of honest thought,", "Send home the masters; all their work is wrought.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.96", "lines": ["Monzer bestowed great gifts on every one,", "And they returned rejoicing, duty done."]}, {"id": "D9.2.97", "lines": ["Then said the prince, “Call spearmen’s steeds to me,", "And let all the horsemen wheel bold and free."]}, {"id": "D9.2.98", "lines": ["Bid them couch lances, ride before my eyes,", "Then name the price of any steed I prize."]}, {"id": "D9.2.99", "lines": ["Whatever horse I favor in that band,", "I shall pay what its owners may demand.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.100", "lines": ["Monzer replied, “Accomplished noble youth,", "A prince who seeks a name through skill and truth,"]}, {"id": "D9.2.101", "lines": ["My keeper of the steeds is yours to guide;", "I, too, their master, serve here at your side."]}, {"id": "D9.2.102", "lines": ["If you must buy Arabian steeds with gold,", "Why trouble me to find what can be sold?”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.103", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “May all your honored years", "Be filled with good and emptied of all fears."]}, {"id": "D9.2.104", "lines": ["I want a steed to spur down mountain height,", "That never needs the bridle drawn in fright."]}, {"id": "D9.2.105", "lines": ["When sure of foot, he must in battle fly", "Past lesser steeds, like wind that races by."]}, {"id": "D9.2.106", "lines": ["If any steed has not been tried before,", "Do not press hard or force his pace for more.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.107", "lines": ["Then Monzer ordered Numan, “Go and seek", "The finest steeds for battle, swift and sleek."]}, {"id": "D9.2.108", "lines": ["Go through the desert where the spearmen ride,", "And bring the finest chargers far and wide.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.109", "lines": ["He hurried out and soon again returned", "With one full hundred steeds whose mettle burned."]}, {"id": "D9.2.110", "lines": ["Bahram beheld them and rode on the plain,", "And wheeled among them, testing heart and rein."]}, {"id": "D9.2.111", "lines": ["Yet every horse, though fleet from side to side,", "Seemed wingless once the prince had climbed astride."]}, {"id": "D9.2.112", "lines": ["At length he chose a chestnut broad of breast,", "Whose wind-like feet outstripped the tested best."]}, {"id": "D9.2.113", "lines": ["A second, branded differently, he chose,", "A bay, as dread as some nahang that rose."]}, {"id": "D9.2.114", "lines": ["Its shoes flashed fire beneath its thundering tread,", "And from its ruddy breast fell drops of red."]}, {"id": "D9.2.115", "lines": ["Then Monzer paid what both those steeds were worth;", "In Kufa’s woodland lay their native earth."]}, {"id": "D9.2.116", "lines": ["Bold Bahram took the pair with watchful care,", "Bright as Azargashasp, a blazing flare."]}, {"id": "D9.2.117", "lines": ["He kept them like fresh apples, prized and sound,", "Lest any harmful wind should sweep around."]}, {"id": "D9.2.118", "lines": ["One day the prince sought Monzer to implore:", "“O bright of mind, well versed in wisdom’s lore,"]}, {"id": "D9.2.119", "lines": ["You keep me here, though cause you cannot show,", "And leave me burdened by this inward woe."]}, {"id": "D9.2.120", "lines": ["In every heart a hidden longing lies;", "No heart is free of what it hides from eyes."]}, {"id": "D9.2.121", "lines": ["Through grief a man grows yellow in the face;", "Through joy his body gains in strength and grace."]}, {"id": "D9.2.122", "lines": ["A fair-faced woman offers sweet relief,", "And comes to aid the heart in every grief."]}, {"id": "D9.2.123", "lines": ["To prince or Pahlevan in youthful might,", "She brings both solace and the heart’s delight."]}, {"id": "D9.2.124", "lines": ["She guides his faith and leads his soul to light;", "Through her, God’s faith endures, his deeds grow right."]}, {"id": "D9.2.125", "lines": ["Command that five or six fair maids appear,", "Like lovely suns in beauty gathered here."]}, {"id": "D9.2.126", "lines": ["Perhaps one or two will win my heart’s embrace,", "And bring my troubled thoughts a quiet place."]}, {"id": "D9.2.127", "lines": ["Perhaps I too may have a child one day,", "To ease my heart and drive some care away."]}, {"id": "D9.2.128", "lines": ["May God be pleased with me, and may men raise", "My name in every gathering with praise.”"]}, {"id": "D9.2.129", "lines": ["Old Monzer heard the prince and blessed his name,", "And praised the words that from the young heart came."]}, {"id": "D9.2.130", "lines": ["He sent a man to seek the dealer’s stand;", "The man sped to his house at that command."]}, {"id": "D9.2.131", "lines": ["The dealer showed him forty maids of Rum,", "Each fit to grace a home and soothe its gloom."]}, {"id": "D9.2.132", "lines": ["He chose two rosy maids to call his own,", "Beneath whose skin lay gleaming ivory bone."]}, {"id": "D9.2.133", "lines": ["Each stood as tall and straight as cypress trees,", "And bore a charm that every eye could please."]}, {"id": "D9.2.134", "lines": ["One played the harp; one, tulip-cheeked, shone far", "In beauty, like Yemen’s Canopus star."]}, {"id": "D9.2.135", "lines": ["Tall as a cypress, kamand-haired and fair;", "Old Monzer paid the price for both the pair."]}, {"id": "D9.2.136", "lines": ["Bahram laughed out and thanked him, full of cheer;", "His face, a Badakhshan gem, shone bright and clear."]}, {"id": "D9.2.137", "lines": ["He cared for polo and the hunt alone;", "No other work or pastime was his own."]}, {"id": "D9.3.1", "lines": ["It happened once, without attendant train,", "Bahram rode out to hunt across the plain."]}, {"id": "D9.3.2", "lines": ["The Roman harpist journeyed at his side;", "Azadeh, coral-cheeked, his joy and pride."]}, {"id": "D9.3.3", "lines": ["She was his comfort, his delight, his flame;", "His lips were never empty of her name."]}, {"id": "D9.3.4", "lines": ["A camel bore him when he sought the chase,", "With rich brocade upon its back in place."]}, {"id": "D9.3.5", "lines": ["Four stirrups hung, two down on either side;", "He crossed the hills and valleys far and wide."]}, {"id": "D9.3.6", "lines": ["Four jeweled stirrups graced the saddle’s fold,", "Two wrought of silver and two wrought of gold."]}, {"id": "D9.3.7", "lines": ["A pellet bow beneath his quiver lay;", "That brave youth knew each art that came his way."]}, {"id": "D9.3.8", "lines": ["Two pairs of deer appeared before his face;", "He smiled: “Azadeh, moon of shining grace,"]}, {"id": "D9.3.9", "lines": ["When I have strung my bow before your sight,", "And set the bowstring in my thumbstall tight,"]}, {"id": "D9.3.10", "lines": ["Which shall I shoot? The doe is young and fair;", "Her mate is old; choose one from that first pair.”"]}, {"id": "D9.3.11", "lines": ["She said, “O lion-man, men do not show", "Their warlike courage hunting deer with bow."]}, {"id": "D9.3.12", "lines": ["Make the doe male, the aged buck a doe;", "Then drive the camel swiftly as they go."]}, {"id": "D9.3.13", "lines": ["While deer are fleeing, let a pellet fly,", "And touch one creature’s ear as it runs by."]}, {"id": "D9.3.14", "lines": ["Its ear will fold, and to its shoulder cling;", "The itching touch will make it scratch the sting."]}, {"id": "D9.3.15", "lines": ["When it lifts up its hoof to scratch its head,", "Then pin head, hoof, and ear with one shaft sped."]}, {"id": "D9.3.16", "lines": ["If you can do this, then my tongue shall call", "You luster of the world before them all.”"]}, {"id": "D9.3.17", "lines": ["When Bahram heard the words the maiden spoke,", "Old sayings in his mind at once awoke."]}, {"id": "D9.3.18", "lines": ["Bahram Goor strung his bow; the plain’s repose", "Gave way to tumult as its clamor rose."]}, {"id": "D9.3.19", "lines": ["Within his quiver lay a forked steel blade,", "A hunting shaft with twin points widely splayed."]}, {"id": "D9.3.20", "lines": ["When those deer fled, he watched the old buck bear", "Its pointed antlers branching in the air."]}, {"id": "D9.3.21", "lines": ["He shot the horns away with that forked dart;", "Amazement filled the watching maiden’s heart."]}, {"id": "D9.3.22", "lines": ["The buck now seemed a doe; its head was shorn", "Of all the dark horns it had lately borne."]}, {"id": "D9.3.23", "lines": ["At once the hunter loosed two shafts that sped", "To strike the young doe’s hornless, tender head."]}, {"id": "D9.3.24", "lines": ["Two shafts stood where her horns would rise and spread;", "Her breast was ruby-bright with blood instead."]}, {"id": "D9.3.25", "lines": ["He wheeled his camel toward the other two,", "And set a pellet in his bow, and drew."]}, {"id": "D9.3.26", "lines": ["He struck one creature’s ear; the shot was good,", "And pleased the hunter, as such shooting should."]}, {"id": "D9.3.27", "lines": ["The creature scratched its ear; without delay,", "He set an arrow, ready for his prey."]}, {"id": "D9.3.28", "lines": ["His arrow pinned its head and hoof and ear;", "Azadeh’s heart was troubled for the deer."]}, {"id": "D9.3.29", "lines": ["He asked, “What do you think, O moon-faced dear?”", "Her eyes streamed tears, a river swift and clear."]}, {"id": "D9.3.30", "lines": ["She said, “No manly deed, no human art;", "A foul Div’s nature rules within your heart.”"]}, {"id": "D9.3.31", "lines": ["Bahram reached out and flung her from her seat,", "And cast her headlong underneath his feet."]}, {"id": "D9.3.32", "lines": ["He drove the camel over her; its tread", "Left breast and hands and harp with blood stained red."]}, {"id": "D9.3.33", "lines": ["He said, “You foolish harpist, why pursue", "My failure in the task you bade me do?"]}, {"id": "D9.3.34", "lines": ["Had all my strength been spent upon the strain,", "And had I failed, my race would bear the stain.”"]}, {"id": "D9.3.35", "lines": ["He trampled her, and never as before", "Took any damsel hunting with him more."]}, {"id": "D9.3.36", "lines": ["Next week he hunted with a noble train,", "With hawk and cheetah ranging on the plain."]}, {"id": "D9.3.37", "lines": ["Beside a mountain stood a lion, bent", "Upon a Gur-e-Khar, whose back it rent."]}, {"id": "D9.3.38", "lines": ["He strung his dark bow, swift to strike the prey,", "And nocked a shaft, three-feathered, straight away."]}, {"id": "D9.3.39", "lines": ["His shaft joined lion’s back and quarry’s heart;", "The lion bled above, pierced by the dart."]}, {"id": "D9.4.1", "lines": ["Another week, Numan and Monzer rode", "To watch Bahram along the hunting road."]}, {"id": "D9.4.2", "lines": ["Monzer brought Arab men of noble name,", "As judges of his prowess and his fame."]}, {"id": "D9.4.3", "lines": ["Monzer desired that Bahram Goor display", "His strength and horsemanship to them that day."]}, {"id": "D9.4.4", "lines": ["Soon ostriches appeared across the plain,", "Each running like a camel free of rein."]}, {"id": "D9.4.5", "lines": ["When Bahram saw them, swift as wind he flew,", "Like gusts that through the open country blew."]}, {"id": "D9.4.6", "lines": ["He gripped his bow; four poplar arrows lay", "Within his belt, made ready for the prey."]}, {"id": "D9.4.7", "lines": ["He loosed them one by one across the plain,", "To bring those fleeing birds among the slain."]}, {"id": "D9.4.8", "lines": ["He pierced their plumes with such exacting art,", "Each shaft stood level with its counterpart."]}, {"id": "D9.4.9", "lines": ["Not one lay lower by a needle’s space,", "Nor rose above another by a trace."]}, {"id": "D9.4.10", "lines": ["When nobles went to scrutinize each shaft,", "They found no hair between them, such his craft."]}, {"id": "D9.4.11", "lines": ["Monzer called blessings down upon his head,", "And spear-armed warriors praised the shafts he sped."]}, {"id": "D9.4.12", "lines": ["Monzer said, “King, you fill my heart with cheer,", "Like rosebushes when blossoms first appear."]}, {"id": "D9.4.13", "lines": ["May fortune keep your moon forever bright,", "Nor let your belt of power lose its might.”"]}, {"id": "D9.4.14", "lines": ["When Monzer reached his palace, in his eyes", "Bahram stood high as Saturn in the skies."]}, {"id": "D9.4.15", "lines": ["Through Yemen, seeking painters, he sent men,", "And called the best to gather round him then."]}, {"id": "D9.4.16", "lines": ["He bade them paint on silk Bahram Goor’s skill,", "And how that single shot had struck to kill."]}, {"id": "D9.4.17", "lines": ["They showed his mighty frame and camel tall,", "And that great shot which held their gaze in thrall."]}, {"id": "D9.4.18", "lines": ["His chest and skillful hand, the bow for stone,", "Deer, lion, Gur-e-Khar; all these were shown."]}, {"id": "D9.4.19", "lines": ["The ostriches, the plain, the arrows’ flight", "In pitch-black paint on silk were brought to light."]}, {"id": "D9.4.20", "lines": ["Monzer dispatched a rider to the king,", "To Yazdegard, that painted silk to bring."]}, {"id": "D9.4.21", "lines": ["The envoy reached the Shah; the gathered band", "Of soldiers crowded round the work in hand."]}, {"id": "D9.4.22", "lines": ["The nobles marveled at the skill displayed,", "And blessed Bahram for all the shots he made."]}, {"id": "D9.4.23", "lines": ["Whenever he displayed his skill, report", "Was carried by swift riders to the court."]}, {"id": "D9.5.1", "lines": ["The Shah longed to behold his princely son,", "Bahram, who shone like the sovereign sun."]}, {"id": "D9.5.2", "lines": ["That lion spoke to Monzer: “Though I stayed", "For long a guest in your protecting shade,"]}, {"id": "D9.5.3", "lines": ["Still longing for my father stirs my breast;", "It rouses me whenever I find rest.”"]}, {"id": "D9.5.4", "lines": ["Monzer prepared whatever was required,", "With gifts from Yemen fit to be admired."]}, {"id": "D9.5.5", "lines": ["He sent Arabian steeds with golden gear,", "And costly treasures that a prince holds dear."]}, {"id": "D9.5.6", "lines": ["Striped cloth and Yemen falchions formed the store,", "With Adan’s gems and mines’ abundant ore."]}, {"id": "D9.5.7", "lines": ["Then Numan, favored in the Iranian court,", "Went with Bahram as escort and support."]}, {"id": "D9.5.8", "lines": ["They spoke of Shahs along the road they went,", "Until they reached Istakhr, their journey spent."]}, {"id": "D9.5.9", "lines": ["When word of their arrival reached the hall,", "The Shah gave ear and listened to it all."]}, {"id": "D9.5.10", "lines": ["The Mobadan and shrewd-hearted sages came,", "To greet the son of royal blood and name."]}, {"id": "D9.5.11", "lines": ["When from afar the Shah beheld Bahram,", "His grace, his limbs, his height, his bearing calm,"]}, {"id": "D9.5.12", "lines": ["He stood amazed to see him trained and tall,", "So fair in form, accomplished before all."]}, {"id": "D9.5.13", "lines": ["He welcomed him and gave him quarters near,", "And asked him many questions, glad to hear."]}, {"id": "D9.5.14", "lines": ["He lodged Numan in chambers fit to please,", "And gave the prince a palace for his ease."]}, {"id": "D9.5.15", "lines": ["He gave him handmaids, slaves, and fitting state,", "With servants suited to his royal fate."]}, {"id": "D9.5.16", "lines": ["He served his father closely, hour by hour,", "And scarcely kept one moment in his power."]}, {"id": "D9.5.17", "lines": ["A month did Numan at the court remain,", "Then asked to take his leave and ride the plain."]}, {"id": "D9.5.18", "lines": ["By night he called him in; the royal seat", "Held both men, face to face, their talk discreet."]}, {"id": "D9.5.19", "lines": ["He said, “Monzer has labored long and hard,", "And raised young Bahram under watchful guard."]}, {"id": "D9.5.20", "lines": ["I owe repayment for these faithful ties;", "Your honor is as Ormozd in my eyes."]}, {"id": "D9.5.21", "lines": ["I praise Monzer, whose counsel lights the way;", "He follows wisdom’s path through every day."]}, {"id": "D9.5.22", "lines": ["Yet while you linger here within my court,", "I know he scans the roads for your report.”"]}, {"id": "D9.5.23", "lines": ["They gave him fifty thousand dinars, weighed,", "With robes of state in kingly silk brocade."]}, {"id": "D9.5.24", "lines": ["They brought ten famed steeds from the royal place,", "With gold and silver gear of fitting grace."]}, {"id": "D9.5.25", "lines": ["Slaves, carpets, scents, and colored stuffs they brought,", "With every kind of treasure skill had wrought."]}, {"id": "D9.5.26", "lines": ["Mehran produced them from the monarch’s store,", "And gave them all to Numan at the door."]}, {"id": "D9.5.27", "lines": ["The king bestowed his gifts with gladness shown,", "To each companion as his rank was known."]}, {"id": "D9.5.28", "lines": ["The Shah then wrote a letter, full and clear,", "To wise Monzer, whose counsel he held dear."]}, {"id": "D9.5.29", "lines": ["He thanked him for the care his son had found,", "And for the bond by which the two were bound."]}, {"id": "D9.5.30", "lines": ["“I shall endeavor to repay your care;", "I hold my head high for this son so rare.”"]}, {"id": "D9.5.31", "lines": ["Bahram Goor wrote as well: “My lot is pain;", "This is not what I hoped within this reign."]}, {"id": "D9.5.32", "lines": ["I never thought the Shah would treat me so,", "Or let his servant’s hopes be brought so low."]}, {"id": "D9.5.33", "lines": ["I am no son or servant in this place,", "Nor glad dependent basking in his grace.”"]}, {"id": "D9.5.34", "lines": ["He told Numan what long had lain concealed,", "The monarch’s evil customs now revealed."]}, {"id": "D9.5.35", "lines": ["When Numan left the Iranian court behind,", "He came to famed Monzer with troubled mind."]}, {"id": "D9.5.36", "lines": ["Then Monzer kissed the letter; on his head", "He laid the words the king to him had said."]}, {"id": "D9.5.37", "lines": ["Rejoicing in the gifts the monarch sent,", "He added praise to praise in his content."]}, {"id": "D9.5.38", "lines": ["The envoy spoke to Monzer, none else near,", "At length, what burdened Bahram’s heart with fear."]}, {"id": "D9.5.39", "lines": ["A scribe then read the second letter through;", "Monzer’s face turned a bitter yellow hue."]}, {"id": "D9.5.40", "lines": ["He wrote at once an answer, grave and wise:", "“Famed prince, keep sound judgment before your eyes."]}, {"id": "D9.5.41", "lines": ["Do not turn from your father’s proper way;", "Obey the Shah by night and through the day."]}, {"id": "D9.5.42", "lines": ["Accept both good and ill your king may send;", "Be wise, and prove your service to the end."]}, {"id": "D9.5.43", "lines": ["Through patience, great men’s troubles pass aside;", "Men need broad wisdom as their guard and guide."]}, {"id": "D9.5.44", "lines": ["The circling sky controls our mortal fate;", "We cannot stand against its love or hate."]}, {"id": "D9.5.45", "lines": ["One heart it fills with love, another bears", "Its gift of strife, a face of frowns and cares."]}, {"id": "D9.5.46", "lines": ["The World-Creator formed it by His skill;", "We must accept the measure of His will."]}, {"id": "D9.5.47", "lines": ["From now I shall send wealth to ease your mind,", "Dinars and royal gems of every kind."]}, {"id": "D9.5.48", "lines": ["Do not be troubled; your distress to me", "Outweighs all treasure heaped from land and sea."]}, {"id": "D9.5.49", "lines": ["Ten thousand bright dinars I send this day,", "An offering to help you on your way."]}, {"id": "D9.5.50", "lines": ["The handmaid who once served you as your guide,", "Your heart’s delight in private at your side,"]}, {"id": "D9.5.51", "lines": ["I send to you, to make your spirit bright,", "And bring your darkened soul again to light."]}, {"id": "D9.5.52", "lines": ["When you have spent these coins, do not depend", "Upon the Shah for further wealth to spend."]}, {"id": "D9.5.53", "lines": ["For I shall send you many more, and bring", "All kinds of goods from lands where I am king."]}, {"id": "D9.5.54", "lines": ["But serve the Shah and praise him with due care;", "Increase your service with a patient air."]}, {"id": "D9.5.55", "lines": ["You cannot part that temper from the throne,", "Not even in the thoughts that are your own.”"]}, {"id": "D9.5.56", "lines": ["Ten loyal Arab riders took the road;", "Their shrewd and fluent speech good judgment showed."]}, {"id": "D9.5.57", "lines": ["With bags of coin and that devoted maid,", "They reached Bahram and brought the promised aid."]}, {"id": "D9.5.58", "lines": ["Wise Bahram’s grief no longer plagued his mind;", "His heart grew strong and left its care behind."]}, {"id": "D9.5.59", "lines": ["From then, as Monzer counseled, he did right,", "And failed no more in service day or night."]}, {"id": "D9.6.1", "lines": ["One day, Bahram served in the banquet hall,", "Attending to the courtiers’ every call."]}, {"id": "D9.6.2", "lines": ["When night came on, his limbs had lost their strength", "From serving through the day’s exhausting length."]}, {"id": "D9.6.3", "lines": ["He closed his eyes, still standing in his pain;", "His heart grew weary of that ceaseless strain."]}, {"id": "D9.6.4", "lines": ["His father saw his eyes were closed and cried", "In sudden anger, casting calm aside."]}, {"id": "D9.6.5", "lines": ["He told the headsman, “Take him from my sight;", "No cap or girdle shall be his by right."]}, {"id": "D9.6.6", "lines": ["Confine him here, then come to me tonight;", "No throne befits him, nor renown in fight.”"]}, {"id": "D9.6.7", "lines": ["Within the palace, with a broken heart,", "He spent that year from his father kept apart."]}, {"id": "D9.6.8", "lines": ["At Nowruz and at Sadeh, in their place,", "He joined the nobles near the royal face."]}, {"id": "D9.6.9", "lines": ["It happened then Taynush from Rum drew near,", "As Caesar’s envoy, come before him here."]}, {"id": "D9.6.10", "lines": ["He brought from Caesar riches, slaves, and gold,", "The Roman tribute gathered as of old."]}, {"id": "D9.6.11", "lines": ["The king of kings received him with due grace,", "And lodged him in a richly furnished place."]}, {"id": "D9.6.12", "lines": ["Bahram dispatched a message to his hand:", "“O shrewd and potent man of Roman land,"]}, {"id": "D9.6.13", "lines": ["The Shah has no true grievance with his slave,", "Yet guiltless I am banished like a knave."]}, {"id": "D9.6.14", "lines": ["Ask him, for your sake, to redress my wrong,", "That my dry fortune may grow fresh and strong."]}, {"id": "D9.6.15", "lines": ["Send me to those who reared me; Monzer’s care", "Was more than mother’s, more than father’s share.”"]}, {"id": "D9.6.16", "lines": ["Taynush gave ear and won what Bahram sought,", "And hope to Bahram’s wounded heart was brought."]}, {"id": "D9.6.17", "lines": ["He was released from shameful bond and chain,", "And joy at last returned to ease his pain."]}, {"id": "D9.6.18", "lines": ["He gave the poor rich gifts before he went,", "And on departure all his thoughts were bent."]}, {"id": "D9.6.19", "lines": ["He called his followers and took the road;", "Like wind through night his marching army flowed."]}, {"id": "D9.6.20", "lines": ["He cried, “Praise God for our escape this hour,", "And safety from the Shah’s oppressive power.”"]}, {"id": "D9.6.21", "lines": ["When he approached the king of Yemen’s land,", "Men, women, children formed a greeting band."]}, {"id": "D9.6.22", "lines": ["Numan came forth, and Monzer at their head,", "With loyal spearmen, riding where he led."]}, {"id": "D9.6.23", "lines": ["As Monzer neared, the light of day grew pale;", "The army’s dust spread out, a darkening veil."]}, {"id": "D9.6.24", "lines": ["Both chiefs dismounted there upon the plain;", "Bahram described his suffering and pain."]}, {"id": "D9.6.25", "lines": ["Monzer wept deeply at the prince’s tale:", "“What star has made the Shah’s good judgment fail?"]}, {"id": "D9.6.26", "lines": ["He never walks the road that wisdom shows;", "I fear his deeds will bring him bitter woes.”"]}, {"id": "D9.6.27", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “May he himself be gone,", "May no remembrance of his star live on.”"]}, {"id": "D9.6.28", "lines": ["Monzer received him as an honored guest,", "And added further favors to the rest."]}, {"id": "D9.6.29", "lines": ["Bahram knew feast and saddle, gift and blade;", "On these alone his waking thoughts were laid."]}, {"id": "D9.6.30", "lines": ["The father in his palace passed the days,", "His son, glad on the plain, went his own ways."]}, {"id": "D9.6.31", "lines": ["Then Yazdegard’s own grief and joy drew near", "Their end; his star grew dark, his fate severe."]}, {"id": "D9.6.32", "lines": ["Now Yazdegard, in fear about his reign,", "Called Mobadan from all his wide domain."]}, {"id": "D9.6.33", "lines": ["He bade the readers of the stars look high,", "And each man scanned the courses of the sky."]}, {"id": "D9.6.34", "lines": ["He asked when death would end his royal might,", "And shroud his head and helmet from the light."]}, {"id": "D9.6.35", "lines": ["What would befall, and where would come the hour", "That withered all his royal beauty’s flower?"]}, {"id": "D9.6.36", "lines": ["The reader of the stars replied, “Instead,", "Let no such thought of death disturb his head."]}, {"id": "D9.6.37", "lines": ["But when his royal fortune falls away,", "The spring of Sav will draw him on his way."]}, {"id": "D9.6.38", "lines": ["Karnay and tabira will raise his bands,", "And gladly set his course toward Tus’s lands."]}, {"id": "D9.6.39", "lines": ["There he will die; his ears have never heard", "Of such a day in any spoken word."]}, {"id": "D9.6.40", "lines": ["Such knowledge brings no profit to the wise;", "God’s hidden secrets should escape our eyes.”"]}, {"id": "D9.6.41", "lines": ["The Shah swore by Kharrad of high renown,", "By Barzin and the yellow sun’s bright crown:"]}, {"id": "D9.6.42", "lines": ["“Whether I stand in anger or delight,", "The spring of Sav shall never meet my sight.”"]}, {"id": "D9.6.43", "lines": ["Three months rolled by beneath the heavens’ reign;", "Then royal blood brought turmoil in its train."]}, {"id": "D9.6.44", "lines": ["One day his nostrils bled; from every town", "Came skilled physicians, healers of renown."]}, {"id": "D9.6.45", "lines": ["With drugs they checked the flow; a week passed clear,", "Then blood ran in the next week, tear on tear."]}, {"id": "D9.7.1", "lines": ["A wise Mobad then said to him, “O king,", "You turned from Providence in everything."]}, {"id": "D9.7.2", "lines": ["You said, ‘I will escape the hand of death,’", "But death is everywhere with living breath."]}, {"id": "D9.7.3", "lines": ["Your proper course is this: by Shahd proceed,", "In litter borne to Sav, and pray in need."]}, {"id": "D9.7.4", "lines": ["There bow before the holy Lord of all,", "And circle on that heated earth, and call."]}, {"id": "D9.7.5", "lines": ["Say, ‘I, Your feeble servant, in despair,", "Have set before my soul an oath’s own snare."]}, {"id": "D9.7.6", "lines": ["O righteous Judge, reveal how long I live;", "What span remains for You alone to give?’”"]}, {"id": "D9.7.7", "lines": ["He found the counsel helpful in his pain,", "And ordered litters brought before his train."]}, {"id": "D9.7.8", "lines": ["Three hundred litters bore the royal load;", "The king set out toward Shahd along the road."]}, {"id": "D9.7.9", "lines": ["He traveled on, and constant was his grief;", "At times his nostrils bled, without relief."]}, {"id": "D9.7.10", "lines": ["He reached the spring of Sav; he stepped outside", "His litter, where he saw the waters glide."]}, {"id": "D9.7.11", "lines": ["He poured the water gently on his head,", "And called on God, by whom all good is spread."]}, {"id": "D9.7.12", "lines": ["His nostrils ceased to bleed; he ate and lay", "At rest with those who guided him that day."]}, {"id": "D9.7.13", "lines": ["“This was the cure,” he said. “Why longer stay?", "I had expected here a long delay.”"]}, {"id": "D9.7.14", "lines": ["Again the flock’s great king, Yazdan ignored,", "Claimed as his own the good that God restored."]}, {"id": "D9.7.15", "lines": ["A white steed from the water to him came,", "Short-legged, round-rumped, a Gur-e-Khar in frame."]}, {"id": "D9.7.16", "lines": ["It came on tall and raging, lion-proud,", "Black-testicled and raven-eyed, and loud."]}, {"id": "D9.7.17", "lines": ["Its tail trailed at its feet; its mane rose high;", "Black-hoofed, it foamed, and could make lions die."]}, {"id": "D9.7.18", "lines": ["Then Yazdegard commanded all his band,", "“Surround this horse and bring it to my hand.”"]}, {"id": "D9.7.19", "lines": ["The herdsman and ten horse-breakers drew near,", "With saddle, long coiled kamand, and their gear."]}, {"id": "D9.7.20", "lines": ["How could the Shah perceive the Maker’s plan,", "Who sent that dragon-steed before the man?"]}, {"id": "D9.7.21", "lines": ["It foiled the herdsman and the mounted crew;", "The king grew furious at what met his view."]}, {"id": "D9.7.22", "lines": ["He took the saddle and the reins, and went", "In joy toward the steed, on taming bent."]}, {"id": "D9.7.23", "lines": ["The horse stood so submissive to his will,", "It never moved a foot, but held quite still."]}, {"id": "D9.7.24", "lines": ["The Shah put on the bridle; still it stayed,", "And stood at ease while he the saddle laid."]}, {"id": "D9.7.25", "lines": ["He drew the girths and bound the saddle fast;", "No tremor through that great nahang had passed."]}, {"id": "D9.7.26", "lines": ["He moved to fasten crupper at the rear;", "The flint-hoofed charger cried for all to hear."]}, {"id": "D9.7.27", "lines": ["It lashed both hind feet hard against his head;", "His head and crown struck dust; the Shah lay dead."]}, {"id": "D9.7.28", "lines": ["The dust received the body it had bred;", "What seek you from those seven skies instead?"]}, {"id": "D9.7.29", "lines": ["You cannot flee the sky or turn its reign;", "To worship it is fruitless, blind, and vain."]}, {"id": "D9.7.30", "lines": ["Seek God, the refuge to whom all may fly,", "Lord of the sun and moon that wheel on high."]}, {"id": "D9.7.31", "lines": ["When Yazdegard was slain, the water-horse", "Flew like the dust and hastened to its source."]}, {"id": "D9.7.32", "lines": ["It vanished in the blue spring’s depths again;", "No man had seen such marvel among men."]}, {"id": "D9.7.33", "lines": ["The army’s cry, a tabira’s deep thrum:", "“O Shah, through fate to Tus you now have come!”"]}, {"id": "D9.7.34", "lines": ["The chieftains tore their garments in despair,", "And flung dust on their heads and in their hair."]}, {"id": "D9.7.35", "lines": ["The Mobad opened up his head and breast,", "His belly too, preparing him for rest."]}, {"id": "D9.7.36", "lines": ["They packed his corpse with musk and camphor white,", "And bound it in brocade, wrapped firm and tight."]}, {"id": "D9.7.37", "lines": ["Bright silk was wrapped about the royal dead;", "They placed a crown of musk upon his head."]}, {"id": "D9.7.38", "lines": ["In golden coffin, on a litter borne", "Of teak, he came to Pars for men to mourn."]}, {"id": "D9.7.39", "lines": ["Such is the law of this inconstant sphere:", "One man rejoices; one sheds sorrow’s tear."]}, {"id": "D9.7.40", "lines": ["Upon this dark earth, even in repose,", "Beware the harm that heaven may impose."]}, {"id": "D9.7.41", "lines": ["Though you are meek, the world will not be tamed;", "So eat, then drain the cup your hand has claimed."]}, {"id": "D9.7.42", "lines": ["Faith offers better shelter than does sin", "To one with power to choose the path within."]}, {"id": "D9.8.1", "lines": ["When that world-ruling monarch had been laid", "Within the grave, Iran’s chiefs came dismayed."]}, {"id": "D9.8.2", "lines": ["The governors and Pahlevans came too,", "With Mobadan, prudent counselors and true."]}, {"id": "D9.8.3", "lines": ["They gathered all in Pars, a mourning wave,", "And stood together by the monarch’s grave."]}, {"id": "D9.8.4", "lines": ["Gostaham, who slew elephants astride", "His horse, and Gharan, Gashasp’s son, beside."]}, {"id": "D9.8.5", "lines": ["With Milad, Arash, marzban, came one more:", "Gurzban’s Pirooz, who unhorsed foes in war."]}, {"id": "D9.8.6", "lines": ["The other chiefs of Iran, high of birth,", "Came too, great leaders, men of proven worth."]}, {"id": "D9.8.7", "lines": ["All those whom Yazdegard had cast in shame", "Now gathered in the city, men of name."]}, {"id": "D9.8.8", "lines": ["Gashasp the scribe, whose eloquence was famed,", "Addressed the gathered lords, and thus exclaimed:"]}, {"id": "D9.8.9", "lines": ["“You nobles gathered here, since God first made", "The world, no king like this has cast his shade."]}, {"id": "D9.8.10", "lines": ["He dealt out death and scorn in bitter measure,", "From lesser men withheld advice and treasure."]}, {"id": "D9.8.11", "lines": ["No man had seen so foul a king before,", "Nor heard of one in ancient heroes’ lore."]}, {"id": "D9.8.12", "lines": ["No more shall one of this same race be king;", "To God against his dust our cries we bring."]}, {"id": "D9.8.13", "lines": ["Illustrious Bahram is his son and seed,", "In heart and mind and counsel, of his breed."]}, {"id": "D9.8.14", "lines": ["His speech is all of Monzer, nothing more;", "We will not crown a tyrant as before.”"]}, {"id": "D9.8.15", "lines": ["Then all Iran’s great chiefs together swore:", "“No king from this same race will we restore."]}, {"id": "D9.8.16", "lines": ["No man of Yazdegard’s own blood shall take", "The crown and throne, for Iran’s future sake.”"]}, {"id": "D9.8.17", "lines": ["When this was done, they rose to choose a king,", "One worthy of the crown and royal ring."]}, {"id": "D9.8.18", "lines": ["Then news of Yazdegard’s grim death spread wide,", "Among the chiefs on every distant side."]}, {"id": "D9.8.19", "lines": ["The Alan king, the army’s champion bold,", "Biward, Ishkapan with his crown of gold,"]}, {"id": "D9.8.20", "lines": ["Each cried, “The sovereignty is mine by right,", "From earth to Pisces in its starry height.”"]}, {"id": "D9.8.21", "lines": ["The world was filled with tumult, grief, and sound,", "For crown and throne no ruling head had found."]}, {"id": "D9.8.22", "lines": ["Then chiefs, Mobadan, Pahlevans, and all", "Whose clear minds answered to the council’s call,"]}, {"id": "D9.8.23", "lines": ["Met there in Pars and weighed the realm’s distress,", "And spoke at length of ways to bring redress."]}, {"id": "D9.8.24", "lines": ["“Who now is worthy of the royal throne?", "Consider who can make this task his own."]}, {"id": "D9.8.25", "lines": ["Seek one both just and generous, to wear", "The royal belt upon that golden chair,"]}, {"id": "D9.8.26", "lines": ["Who can allay the woes the years have piled;", "A kingless world is pasture, running wild.”"]}, {"id": "D9.8.27", "lines": ["There lived an aged man whose heart was light,", "Khosrow by name, both generous and bright."]}, {"id": "D9.8.28", "lines": ["Of noble race, with riches at command,", "Among the wealthy men in all the land."]}, {"id": "D9.8.29", "lines": ["The nobles gave him crown and royal state,", "And troops from every side approached his gate."]}, {"id": "D9.9.1", "lines": ["Then Bahram Goor was told how heaven’s frown", "Had turned to bitterness the royal crown."]}, {"id": "D9.9.2", "lines": ["“Your noble father, king among the great,", "Has died and borne away the royal state."]}, {"id": "D9.9.3", "lines": ["The army swore, ‘No king of that same strain", "Shall sit upon the throne of kings or reign."]}, {"id": "D9.9.4", "lines": ["His son is like him; from his father’s seed", "Came skin and marrow of that very breed.’"]}, {"id": "D9.9.5", "lines": ["They set a man upon the throne, and so", "They hailed him king and named him Khosrow.”"]}, {"id": "D9.9.6", "lines": ["When Bahram heard, he tore his cheeks in grief;", "His father’s death had left him no relief."]}, {"id": "D9.9.7", "lines": ["For two full weeks from Yemen rose the cries", "Of child and man and woman to the skies."]}, {"id": "D9.9.8", "lines": ["A month he mourned in sorrow and despair;", "At the new month, he decked the royal chair."]}, {"id": "D9.9.9", "lines": ["Then Numan drew beside him; Monzer came,", "With Yemen’s Arabs, every rank and name."]}, {"id": "D9.9.10", "lines": ["They wept beside their Shah, their hearts aflame;", "Though fire was absent, grief burned all the same."]}, {"id": "D9.9.11", "lines": ["At last they loosed their tongues and spoke their mind:", "“O virtuous prince, most noble of your kind,"]}, {"id": "D9.9.12", "lines": ["Our end is dust; no nush-daru can stay", "Our destined end or keep the grave away."]}, {"id": "D9.9.13", "lines": ["All born of mothers die; to us, the plight", "Of birth is wrong, and death alone is right.”"]}, {"id": "D9.9.14", "lines": ["To Monzer Bahram spoke in his dismay:", "“Now darkness clouds the fortune of our day."]}, {"id": "D9.9.15", "lines": ["Though fierce and merciless, the king who died", "Had loved this whole broad country far and wide."]}, {"id": "D9.9.16", "lines": ["If my own race should lose the royal name,", "Its royal glory too will lose its flame."]}, {"id": "D9.9.17", "lines": ["They will raise dust from all this horsemen’s plain", "And leave the Arabs pits for their domain."]}, {"id": "D9.9.18", "lines": ["Consider well, assist me in this need,", "And mourn my father’s death in thought and deed.”"]}, {"id": "D9.9.19", "lines": ["Monzer heard Bahram’s words and made his stand;", "With manly speech, he answered his demand."]}, {"id": "D9.9.20", "lines": ["He said, “This is my day upon the plain;", "My day to hunt across this broad domain."]}, {"id": "D9.9.21", "lines": ["Sit on the throne and watch; the crown is yours,", "With royal bracelet, while your reign endures.”"]}, {"id": "D9.9.22", "lines": ["The chiefs approved what Monzer had advised,", "And all agreed upon the course devised."]}, {"id": "D9.9.23", "lines": ["They left his presence, ready to invade,", "And all prepared to launch their mounted raid."]}, {"id": "D9.9.24", "lines": ["Monzer gave Numan orders: “Ride and go,", "And gather lions brave against the foe."]}, {"id": "D9.9.25", "lines": ["From Shiban and the Ghassanians, raise", "Ten thousand men well schooled in battle’s ways."]}, {"id": "D9.9.26", "lines": ["Iran shall see who holds the royal right,", "With name and wealth and troops arrayed for fight.”"]}, {"id": "D9.9.27", "lines": ["Numan assembled men with spear and blade,", "A mighty army, ready for the raid."]}, {"id": "D9.9.28", "lines": ["He bade them raid and trample through the land,", "While terror spread before their armed command."]}, {"id": "D9.9.29", "lines": ["Toward Tisfoon the salt flats shook with sound,", "Beneath the pounding hooves that struck the ground."]}, {"id": "D9.9.30", "lines": ["The women and the children captive fell;", "No helper came to ease their living hell."]}, {"id": "D9.9.31", "lines": ["The world was filled with harrying and flame,", "For now the throne held power only in name."]}, {"id": "D9.9.32", "lines": ["News went to Rum and Chin, to Turkistan,", "To Hind and to Makran from troubled Iran."]}, {"id": "D9.9.33", "lines": ["“The throne of Iran stands without a king;", "No worthy man can bear the royal ring.”"]}, {"id": "D9.9.34", "lines": ["They all prepared to raid and seize their prize,", "For plunder and injustice bade them rise."]}, {"id": "D9.9.35", "lines": ["Each stretched a hand to seize Iran’s domain,", "And rose to claim its kingship for his reign."]}, {"id": "D9.10.1", "lines": ["The Iranians heard the news and sought relief,", "And hurried to devise an end to grief."]}, {"id": "D9.10.2", "lines": ["Worn out by suffering, to find redress,", "They met in council over their distress."]}, {"id": "D9.10.3", "lines": ["“Their deeds have passed all bounds throughout our land;", "The men of Rum and Hind, the desert band."]}, {"id": "D9.10.4", "lines": ["We must devise some means to end this woe,", "And free our hearts from grief that lays them low.”"]}, {"id": "D9.10.5", "lines": ["They chose a noble envoy, shrewd and clear,", "A fluent warrior whom courts would hear."]}, {"id": "D9.10.6", "lines": ["His name was Javanuy, a scribe of fame,", "High-born and honored, worthy of acclaim."]}, {"id": "D9.10.7", "lines": ["They sent him forth to Monzer to convey", "Their words, and hear what he in turn would say:"]}, {"id": "D9.10.8", "lines": ["“O noble lord, may all the world sing praise", "Of your great name, and bless you all your days."]}, {"id": "D9.10.9", "lines": ["You are the stay of warriors everywhere;", "Iran and foreign lands are in your care."]}, {"id": "D9.10.10", "lines": ["The throne lacked crown and king; the frontier bore", "The francolin’s rich plumage, dyed in gore."]}, {"id": "D9.10.11", "lines": ["We thought you fit to rule and guard this land,", "Whose worth we saw upheld by your own hand."]}, {"id": "D9.10.12", "lines": ["But now you raid us, shedding blood for spoil,", "And spread contention through our fields and soil."]}, {"id": "D9.10.13", "lines": ["You once shunned evil, fearing blame and shame,", "And dreaded curses falling on your name."]}, {"id": "D9.10.14", "lines": ["Consider: do these deeds seem good and wise?", "In old age, do they bring you any prize?"]}, {"id": "D9.10.15", "lines": ["Another Judge reigns far above your station,", "Beyond the furthest bounds of contemplation."]}, {"id": "D9.10.16", "lines": ["This envoy will report what he has seen,", "And what he heard from men whose judgment’s keen.”"]}, {"id": "D9.10.17", "lines": ["Wise Javanuy departed from the train", "Of chiefs, and journeyed to the spearmen’s plain."]}, {"id": "D9.10.18", "lines": ["He gave the letter, spoke before the chief,", "Recalled Iran’s complaints and told their grief."]}, {"id": "D9.10.19", "lines": ["The Arab chief heard out the whole complaint,", "And held his answer back with calm restraint."]}, {"id": "D9.10.20", "lines": ["“O wise one, seeking justice, state your case", "Before the Shah, and meet him face to face."]}, {"id": "D9.10.21", "lines": ["Before him speak as you have spoken here;", "To win an answer, make your grievance clear.”"]}, {"id": "D9.10.22", "lines": ["He sent a noble as the envoy’s guide;", "To Bahram’s court they journeyed side by side."]}, {"id": "D9.10.23", "lines": ["When that wise envoy stood before the king,", "He prayed that God would bless his crown and ring."]}, {"id": "D9.10.24", "lines": ["His height and stature, neck and shoulders brought", "Such wonder that the sage stood lost in thought."]}, {"id": "D9.10.25", "lines": ["One would have said wine flowed from Bahram’s face,", "And musk from his dark hair perfumed the place."]}, {"id": "D9.10.26", "lines": ["That fluent man grew speechless, dazed in mind,", "And left the message he had borne behind."]}, {"id": "D9.10.27", "lines": ["Bahram Goor saw the wonder in his eyes,", "And knew his royal splendor caused surprise."]}, {"id": "D9.10.28", "lines": ["He greeted him with kindness, showed him grace,", "And on the royal seat gave him a place."]}, {"id": "D9.10.29", "lines": ["Once he felt free to speak, the Shah inquired:", "“Why come from Iran, travel-worn and tired?"]}, {"id": "D9.10.30", "lines": ["Hereafter you shall have, for all your pain,", "Relief and heaps of treasure as your gain.”"]}, {"id": "D9.10.31", "lines": ["The envoy spoke and gave the letter, then", "Recalled the words entrusted by those men."]}, {"id": "D9.10.32", "lines": ["The Shah sent him to Monzer with a guide,", "A sage to bear these words back at his side:"]}, {"id": "D9.10.33", "lines": ["“Write him an answer,” Bahram said, “with art,", "And use fair words to ease the envoy’s heart."]}, {"id": "D9.10.34", "lines": ["Ask if he bears a verbal message too;", "Hear all he says, and answer what is due.”"]}, {"id": "D9.10.35", "lines": ["Then Javanuy returned and spoke; the light", "Of joy made Monzer’s face grow warm and bright."]}, {"id": "D9.10.36", "lines": ["When he had heard the words the envoy said,", "He framed the answer to the note he read."]}, {"id": "D9.10.37", "lines": ["“O man of wisdom, hear what I reply:", "All who do evil suffer pain thereby."]}, {"id": "D9.10.38", "lines": ["I heard your message and the nobles’ greeting;", "Now take my answer back from this our meeting."]}, {"id": "D9.10.39", "lines": ["Say this: ‘Who first brought evil to the fore,", "Who chose this senseless feud, and opened war?"]}, {"id": "D9.10.40", "lines": ["King Bahram Goor is here, with royal grace,", "His lofty stature and his troops in place."]}, {"id": "D9.10.41", "lines": ["Who draws a serpent from its hole will tread", "With trailing skirts by his own blood dyed red."]}, {"id": "D9.10.42", "lines": ["Had I been counselor, Iran would know", "No such affliction, injury, or woe.’”"]}, {"id": "D9.10.43", "lines": ["Javanuy saw the king; his words made plain", "The mind of him who sought Iran’s domain."]}, {"id": "D9.10.44", "lines": ["For throne and greatness, fortune and success,", "He weighed his words, his bearing, and address."]}, {"id": "D9.10.45", "lines": ["On hearing Monzer, Javanuy took hold", "Of one clear thought, and spoke with purpose bold:"]}, {"id": "D9.10.46", "lines": ["“Great lord, who needs no other man’s advice,", "Whose wisdom can without such aid suffice,"]}, {"id": "D9.10.47", "lines": ["If Iran’s judgment failed, its nobles bled;", "And many of its noblemen lie dead."]}, {"id": "D9.10.48", "lines": ["I am an old man, seeking honor still;", "Now let me speak, and hear me if you will."]}, {"id": "D9.10.49", "lines": ["With joy we ought to yield our native land", "To you and brave Bahram with willing hand."]}, {"id": "D9.10.50", "lines": ["With hawk and cheetah make a royal round;", "Ride as a king upon Iran’s own ground."]}, {"id": "D9.10.51", "lines": ["Hear what the Iranians have to say;", "No harm need come from traveling this way."]}, {"id": "D9.10.52", "lines": ["Speak what is fitting, let your wisdom rule,", "And keep your distance from the witless fool."]}, {"id": "D9.10.53", "lines": ["Keep far from evil conduct, and from shame;", "Turn from reproach and all that brings you blame.”"]}, {"id": "D9.10.54", "lines": ["Then Monzer heard and gave him gifts to bear,", "And sent him from the city free of care."]}, {"id": "D9.11.1", "lines": ["Monzer, Bahram Goor, and counselors all met,", "In private council where their course was set."]}, {"id": "D9.11.2", "lines": ["He chose from Arab ranks a fighting corps", "Of thirty thousand spearmen trained for war."]}, {"id": "D9.11.3", "lines": ["He gave them dinars, wealth for all to share,", "And filled the chieftains’ heads with pride’s hot air."]}, {"id": "D9.11.4", "lines": ["When news of this had spread through Iran’s land,", "And Javanuy rejoined the warrior band,"]}, {"id": "D9.11.5", "lines": ["The potentates, all sunk in deep concern,", "Went to Barzin’s fire-temple in their turn."]}, {"id": "D9.11.6", "lines": ["They prayed to God that battle’s threat might cease,", "And turn to feasts and happiness in peace."]}, {"id": "D9.11.7", "lines": ["Near Jahram, Monzer led his ranks to stand", "Upon the waterless expanse of land."]}, {"id": "D9.11.8", "lines": ["Bahram Goor raised his royal tent; the ground", "Was filled with troops that gathered all around."]}, {"id": "D9.11.9", "lines": ["He said, “O counselor, you have come here", "From Yemen to Jahram; our troops stand near."]}, {"id": "D9.11.10", "lines": ["Now army faces army on this plain;", "Shall we choose battle, or let parley reign?”"]}, {"id": "D9.11.11", "lines": ["Monzer replied, “Invite the chiefs to dine;", "When they arrive, set out the food and wine."]}, {"id": "D9.11.12", "lines": ["Speak, hear their words; and if their tempers rise,", "Do not let anger kindle in your eyes."]}, {"id": "D9.11.13", "lines": ["Then we shall learn what thoughts their hearts proclaim,", "And whom they wish to give the royal name."]}, {"id": "D9.11.14", "lines": ["When that is known, we shall decide our course,", "And shun all strife if gentle words have force."]}, {"id": "D9.11.15", "lines": ["But if they turn to hatred, war, and spite,", "And show a leopard’s fury in the fight,"]}, {"id": "D9.11.16", "lines": ["I shall make Jahram a sea; the sun’s blaze", "Will shrink to match the Pleiades’ faint rays."]}, {"id": "D9.11.17", "lines": ["I think, when folk behold your form and grace,", "Your stature, kindness, and your royal face,"]}, {"id": "D9.11.18", "lines": ["Your wisdom, patience, counsel, and command,", "Your knowledge, learning, dignity so grand,"]}, {"id": "D9.11.19", "lines": ["They will want none but you to claim the throne,", "The crown and fortune’s beauty yours to own."]}, {"id": "D9.11.20", "lines": ["But if they lose their way and seek to claim", "Your throne, denying you the royal name,"]}, {"id": "D9.11.21", "lines": ["I and these horsemen, with our swords, will bring", "A day of doom to shake the world, O king."]}, {"id": "D9.11.22", "lines": ["You shall behold my frown amid the strife;", "For you I offer body and my life."]}, {"id": "D9.11.23", "lines": ["When they observe my countless troops in line,", "Their ordered ranks and every warlike sign,"]}, {"id": "D9.11.24", "lines": ["And know our work is bloodshed, and our might", "Has God the Just as ally in the fight,"]}, {"id": "D9.11.25", "lines": ["They will elect no other, only you;", "The crown and throne are yours, as is your due.”"]}, {"id": "D9.11.26", "lines": ["The Shah heard Monzer’s words and smiled; delight", "Swelled in his heart and made his spirits bright."]}, {"id": "D9.11.27", "lines": ["When sunlight climbed above the mountain height,", "Iran’s great men set forth in morning light."]}, {"id": "D9.11.28", "lines": ["They made their way to meet Bahram that day;", "A learned council formed in full array."]}, {"id": "D9.11.29", "lines": ["An ivory throne was set for him to mount;", "He wore a crown whose jewels none could count."]}, {"id": "D9.11.30", "lines": ["He set his court as kings of kings would do,", "And took his royal seat before their view."]}, {"id": "D9.11.31", "lines": ["Monzer and Numan flanked him, and a blade", "Was held by Numan, naked and displayed."]}, {"id": "D9.11.32", "lines": ["Around the tent stood Arab chiefs of rank,", "Encircling its enclosure, flank by flank."]}, {"id": "D9.11.33", "lines": ["Then Iran’s loyal nobles, grave and grand,", "Drew near its entrance in a noble band."]}, {"id": "D9.11.34", "lines": ["He bade them raise the curtain, and the call", "Announced their entry, welcoming them all."]}, {"id": "D9.11.35", "lines": ["They came to Bahram, where the crown and throne", "In all their beauty to the chiefs were shown."]}, {"id": "D9.11.36", "lines": ["They cried, “Live long! May evil’s hand remain", "Far off, and never bring you harm or pain.”"]}, {"id": "D9.11.37", "lines": ["The king of kings received them with good cheer,", "And set each in the rank his worth made clear."]}, {"id": "D9.12.1", "lines": ["Bahram said, “Princes, chiefs of ripened age,", "Whose long experience has made you sage,"]}, {"id": "D9.12.2", "lines": ["The kingship passed from sire to sire is mine;", "Why is its fate for you now to define?”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.3", "lines": ["The Iranians cried, “Do not make us bear", "The harm such kings inflict, the grief and care."]}, {"id": "D9.12.4", "lines": ["We will not have you rule; we own the land,", "Although the troops are yours at your command."]}, {"id": "D9.12.5", "lines": ["Your race has brought us anguish, toil, and woe;", "Our cold sighs never cease to rise and flow.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.6", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Desire commands the breast;", "Each heart pursues the course that suits it best."]}, {"id": "D9.12.7", "lines": ["Why seek another king, with me denied,", "And cast my wishes wholly to one side?”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.8", "lines": ["A Mobad said, “From justice none may stray;", "Both prince and subject must its rule obey."]}, {"id": "D9.12.9", "lines": ["Join us, and choose a Shah whom all will bless,", "A king to heal the realm from its distress.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.10", "lines": ["Three days they labored, seeking to decide", "Who should be king, with all Iran to guide."]}, {"id": "D9.12.11", "lines": ["They listed noble names, a hundred strong,", "To whom the crown and throne might well belong."]}, {"id": "D9.12.12", "lines": ["Bahram Goor’s name was written with the rest;", "He was a king whose charm each heart confessed."]}, {"id": "D9.12.13", "lines": ["With caution they reviewed each noble name,", "And fifty passed the test of rank and fame."]}, {"id": "D9.12.14", "lines": ["Whether his father’s path he kept or spurned,", "First of the fifty, Bahram’s name returned."]}, {"id": "D9.12.15", "lines": ["From fifty names they then wrote thirty down,", "Iran’s choice men of honor and renown."]}, {"id": "D9.12.16", "lines": ["Among the thirty, Bahram stood ahead,", "A youthful Shah, the crown upon his head."]}, {"id": "D9.12.17", "lines": ["The wise Mobadan narrowed these to four,", "And Bahram still stood foremost as before."]}, {"id": "D9.12.18", "lines": ["But when decisive judgment drew in sight,", "Iran’s elders then turned from Bahram’s right."]}, {"id": "D9.12.19", "lines": ["They said, “We will not have him on the throne;", "Too rash and headstrong has this young man grown.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.20", "lines": ["An outcry rose; the chiefs grew dark in heart,", "And grief and anger would not soon depart."]}, {"id": "D9.12.21", "lines": ["Then Monzer said, “For good or ill, I seek", "To understand the grief of which you speak."]}, {"id": "D9.12.22", "lines": ["Why grieve at him? This king is young in years;", "No weight of age upon his frame appears.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.23", "lines": ["The chiefs then summoned men whose bodies bore", "The wounds of Yazdegard’s harsh rule before."]}, {"id": "D9.12.24", "lines": ["They gathered those whom Yazdegard had scarred,", "And brought them forward for the chiefs’ regard."]}, {"id": "D9.12.25", "lines": ["One lived with hands and feet cut from his frame;", "His trunk remained; life lingered there the same."]}, {"id": "D9.12.26", "lines": ["Another had lost ears and hands and tongue,", "And seemed a lifeless shape among them flung."]}, {"id": "D9.12.27", "lines": ["Another had lost shoulders; Numan stared,", "Astonished at the wounds those men had shared."]}, {"id": "D9.12.28", "lines": ["One man had nails gouge out his eyes; the sight", "Made Monzer’s anger flare and burn outright."]}, {"id": "D9.12.29", "lines": ["Bahram grew grieved and cursed his father’s name,", "And to his dust addressed these words of blame:"]}, {"id": "D9.12.30", "lines": ["“You sewed joy’s eyes shut, wretch, and quenched desire;", "Why did you burn your soul in raging fire?”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.31", "lines": ["Then Monzer said, “These wrongs must not be sealed;", "The harm they suffered must not be concealed."]}, {"id": "D9.12.32", "lines": ["You heard the charges; answer what they bring,", "For harshness is not fitting in a king.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.33", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Chiefs, veterans of the land,", "Whose eyes have seen and hands have held command,"]}, {"id": "D9.12.34", "lines": ["You speak the truth; worse evils still remain.", "Well may I blame my father’s cruel reign."]}, {"id": "D9.12.35", "lines": ["I too received a sample of that pain;", "It cast a darkness over heart and brain."]}, {"id": "D9.12.36", "lines": ["His palace was my prison, barred and grim;", "Then God showed mercy; I found help in Him."]}, {"id": "D9.12.37", "lines": ["Then Taynush freed me from my father’s rule;", "His hook had torn my mouth; he was that cruel."]}, {"id": "D9.12.38", "lines": ["I sought in Monzer’s hand a refuge, since", "The Shah had shown no kindness to his prince."]}, {"id": "D9.12.39", "lines": ["May no man have that temper as his own;", "Where it prevails, humanity has flown."]}, {"id": "D9.12.40", "lines": ["But I, thank God, have wisdom in my soul;", "Its fruit sustains me and preserves me whole."]}, {"id": "D9.12.41", "lines": ["I pray to Him to guide me toward the right,", "And lead me on the path of goodness’ light."]}, {"id": "D9.12.42", "lines": ["For every injury my father dealt,", "I seek to purge the guilt my heart has felt."]}, {"id": "D9.12.43", "lines": ["I am the shepherd; subjects are my sheep;", "Their ease and justice are for me to keep."]}, {"id": "D9.12.44", "lines": ["I live to bring my subjects joy and rest,", "And worship God in ways that He finds best."]}, {"id": "D9.12.45", "lines": ["I have discretion, character, and thought,", "Unjust kings lack the virtue I have sought."]}, {"id": "D9.12.46", "lines": ["From helplessness come baseness and deceit;", "Weep for the unjust king upon his seat."]}, {"id": "D9.12.47", "lines": ["From sire to sire, the kingship is my due;", "With wisdom, I wish well to all of you."]}, {"id": "D9.12.48", "lines": ["From Shapur, Bahram, back to Ardeshir,", "My royal forebears, one by one, appear."]}, {"id": "D9.12.49", "lines": ["From sire to sire, my forebears lead the way;", "Their faith and wisdom guide me to this day."]}, {"id": "D9.12.50", "lines": ["Through King Samiran, too, my mother’s line", "Is royal; wisdom is a friend of mine."]}, {"id": "D9.12.51", "lines": ["With wisdom, virtue, greatness, I command", "The horseman’s art, a brave heart, strength of hand."]}, {"id": "D9.12.52", "lines": ["I know no man who stands above my worth", "In war or feast or any deed on earth."]}, {"id": "D9.12.53", "lines": ["I hold a secret treasury well stored,", "And famous men stand loyal to their lord."]}, {"id": "D9.12.54", "lines": ["My justice shall make all the realm increase,", "And every subject shall abide in peace."]}, {"id": "D9.12.55", "lines": ["Moreover, I will make a pact with you,", "And pledge my tongue to God, whose word is true."]}, {"id": "D9.12.56", "lines": ["Bring out the ivory throne of high renown,", "And set above its seat the shining crown."]}, {"id": "D9.12.57", "lines": ["Bring two fierce lions from their forest lair,", "And place the crown between that savage pair."]}, {"id": "D9.12.58", "lines": ["Chain one on each side; let him who would reign", "Approach between the two, the crown to gain."]}, {"id": "D9.12.59", "lines": ["Then let him take the crown from ivory’s height,", "And set it on his head by royal right."]}, {"id": "D9.12.60", "lines": ["Between the lions let him face his fate,", "Crown on his head, the throne beneath his weight."]}, {"id": "D9.12.61", "lines": ["We shall seek no one else, if he is just", "And pious, worthy of a people’s trust."]}, {"id": "D9.12.62", "lines": ["But if you all reject what I have said,", "Choose me a rival champion instead."]}, {"id": "D9.12.63", "lines": ["Where I lead on, the spears your horsemen wield", "Are only thorns and brushwood in the field."]}, {"id": "D9.12.64", "lines": ["Monzer and I, with gorz and sharpened steel,", "Have Arab chiefs who never turn a heel."]}, {"id": "D9.12.65", "lines": ["We shall raise dust from your enthroned king soon,", "And scatter heads from crowns beneath your moon."]}, {"id": "D9.12.66", "lines": ["Now answer what I said; let judgment weigh", "This case, and guide you on a prosperous way.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.67", "lines": ["He spoke, then rose and entered his own tent;", "All marveled at the challenge he had sent."]}, {"id": "D9.12.68", "lines": ["The chiefs, Mobadan, and Iranian crowd", "Who heard the wise Shah’s speech exclaimed aloud:"]}, {"id": "D9.12.69", "lines": ["“This is God’s farr, not folly or deceit;", "No crooked purpose guides his words or feet."]}, {"id": "D9.12.70", "lines": ["He speaks no word but justice; we are right", "To let such justice fill us with delight."]}, {"id": "D9.12.71", "lines": ["Consider what he said: the lions’ glare,", "The royal crown and throne between the pair."]}, {"id": "D9.12.72", "lines": ["If savage lions rend him where he stands,", "No judge will ask his blood from out our hands."]}, {"id": "D9.12.73", "lines": ["He made this plan himself; his will was plain,", "Yet we shall not rejoice if he is slain."]}, {"id": "D9.12.74", "lines": ["But if he takes the crown and wins acclaim,", "His farr will pass beyond Fereydoon’s fame."]}, {"id": "D9.12.75", "lines": ["No other man shall bear the royal name;", "We answer justly; that concludes our claim.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.76", "lines": ["That night passed on; at dawn the Shah arose,", "And took his seat as darkness reached its close."]}, {"id": "D9.12.77", "lines": ["He summoned Iran’s chiefs and had them stay,", "Then spoke at length of all the previous day."]}, {"id": "D9.12.78", "lines": ["The Mobadan cried, “O Shah, supremely wise,", "Above the sages does your wisdom rise."]}, {"id": "D9.12.79", "lines": ["What course in kingship will you then pursue,", "When sovereign height and power fall to you?"]}, {"id": "D9.12.80", "lines": ["How will you deal with justice and with right,", "So fraud and falsehood vanish out of sight?”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.81", "lines": ["He answered sages, warriors, chiefs of name,", "The men of noble deeds and honored fame:"]}, {"id": "D9.12.82", "lines": ["“My gifts shall far exceed the words I say;", "Oppression and harsh searches shall give way."]}, {"id": "D9.12.83", "lines": ["To those whom fitness marks to hold command,", "I will assign their portions of the land."]}, {"id": "D9.12.84", "lines": ["By counsel shall I rule, and justice clear;", "Let all, secure in justice, find good cheer."]}, {"id": "D9.12.85", "lines": ["I shall share hoarded wealth with those in need,", "And give the poor the means on which to feed."]}, {"id": "D9.12.86", "lines": ["I first shall counsel him who does a wrong;", "If he repeats it, fetters bind him strong."]}, {"id": "D9.12.87", "lines": ["I shall pay soldiers promptly, full and fair,", "And free the sages’ hearts from fear and care."]}, {"id": "D9.12.88", "lines": ["My heart and tongue shall both be true and plain;", "My soul shall turn from darkness and its stain."]}, {"id": "D9.12.89", "lines": ["If one dies rich and leaves no kindred near,", "With wealth beyond all measure gathered here,"]}, {"id": "D9.12.90", "lines": ["The poor shall have that wealth; I heap no gold,", "Nor let this passing house my heart enfold."]}, {"id": "D9.12.91", "lines": ["I shall seek counsel from those skill has taught,", "And break desire’s back through prudent thought."]}, {"id": "D9.12.92", "lines": ["I shall ask ministers when plans arise,", "And never scorn the counsel of the wise."]}, {"id": "D9.12.93", "lines": ["When someone seeks my justice, I shall stay,", "And will not send the gathered men away."]}, {"id": "D9.12.94", "lines": ["I shall give every seeker what is due,", "And speak a righteous judgment firm and true."]}, {"id": "D9.12.95", "lines": ["I shall chastise all evil, as kings should,", "And meet each wrong as royal justice would."]}, {"id": "D9.12.96", "lines": ["All-holy God bears witness over me;", "Upon my tongue, let wisdom’s guidance be.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.97", "lines": ["The high Mobad and elders, tried and wise,", "Then answered him before the nation’s eyes:"]}, {"id": "D9.12.98", "lines": ["“We are your slaves and bow the head to you,", "To your command and will in all we do.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.99", "lines": ["Then Shah Bahram declared, “You sages, heed,", "In whom the realm finds counsel in its need,"]}, {"id": "D9.12.100", "lines": ["If in one year my soul and wisdom fail,", "And these my promises become a tale,"]}, {"id": "D9.12.101", "lines": ["I will renounce the crown and royal place,", "And sit among the luckless in disgrace.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.102", "lines": ["The sages heard his answer, every word,", "And the wakeful Mobadan likewise heard."]}, {"id": "D9.12.103", "lines": ["They rued their former words and sought to mend", "Their fault, and bring the matter to an end."]}, {"id": "D9.12.104", "lines": ["They cried to one another, “Who could claim", "More right than he to bear the royal name?"]}, {"id": "D9.12.105", "lines": ["In manliness, in speech, in birth, and mind,", "No purer prince on earth can any find."]}, {"id": "D9.12.106", "lines": ["God fashioned him from justice; may his way", "Be free of harm, and evil kept at bay."]}, {"id": "D9.12.107", "lines": ["All good will come from him; our lives will gain", "Both food and justice under his domain."]}, {"id": "D9.12.108", "lines": ["If now we twist the words that we have heard,", "We lull our wisdom with each twisted word."]}, {"id": "D9.12.109", "lines": ["His neck and arms are peerless in their might;", "No man can match his stature or his height."]}, {"id": "D9.12.110", "lines": ["If he assumes his own ancestral throne,", "Who can surpass the greatness he has shown?"]}, {"id": "D9.12.111", "lines": ["What cause has he to fear our hostile band?", "Before his might, we are but dust and sand.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.112", "lines": ["They said, “O favored prince, your claim is best;", "In you the marks of kingship find their rest."]}, {"id": "D9.12.113", "lines": ["Yet none had known your wisdom and your worth,", "Or purity, now shown to all the earth."]}, {"id": "D9.12.114", "lines": ["To Khosrow, sprung from Pashin’s ancient line,", "We gave the kingship and its royal sign."]}, {"id": "D9.12.115", "lines": ["We swore to share the danger at his side,", "And face whatever fortune might provide."]}, {"id": "D9.12.116", "lines": ["But should he govern Iran, war will spread,", "And leave our marches desolate and dead."]}, {"id": "D9.12.117", "lines": ["One party holds Bahram in high acclaim;", "The other still remembers Khosrow’s name."]}, {"id": "D9.12.118", "lines": ["Your plan is right; when judgment ends the fray,", "The world will hear your word and will obey."]}, {"id": "D9.12.119", "lines": ["The lions’ trial will make the title clear;", "No claimant afterward will interfere.”"]}, {"id": "D9.12.120", "lines": ["Bahram agreed; he first proposed the test,", "And now assented to the chiefs’ request."]}, {"id": "D9.12.121", "lines": ["Such was the custom generous kings obeyed", "When a new Shah of royal birth was made:"]}, {"id": "D9.12.122", "lines": ["The high Mobad would come before him then,", "And bring three sages, wise, discerning men."]}, {"id": "D9.12.123", "lines": ["He seated him upon the royal throne,", "And blessed the seat the king would call his own."]}, {"id": "D9.12.124", "lines": ["He brought the golden crown, a gleaming thing,", "The source of pomp and glory for a king."]}, {"id": "D9.12.125", "lines": ["He set the Kayan crown, then gladly pressed", "His own two cheeks against the monarch’s breast."]}, {"id": "D9.12.126", "lines": ["All gifts presented at the royal seat", "The Shah bestowed on those who would entreat."]}, {"id": "D9.12.127", "lines": ["They gave the Mobad crown and throne to keep;", "Bahram left town and crossed the plain’s broad sweep."]}, {"id": "D9.12.128", "lines": ["Brave Gostaham had two fierce lions chained;", "He gave them to the Mobad, thus restrained."]}, {"id": "D9.12.129", "lines": ["They dragged the fighting lions, wild and grim;", "With fear the handlers’ senses all grew dim."]}, {"id": "D9.12.130", "lines": ["At the throne’s feet they chained the lions down;", "Upon its ivory corner lay the crown."]}, {"id": "D9.12.131", "lines": ["All eyes were fixed on crown and ivory chair,", "To see how Bahram in the test would fare."]}, {"id": "D9.13.1", "lines": ["Bahram Goor and Khosrow crossed the plain,", "And faced the lions, hearts weighed down with pain."]}, {"id": "D9.13.2", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw the crown between the beasts,", "He turned to speak before the gathered priests:"]}, {"id": "D9.13.3", "lines": ["“Who seeks the sovereignty should first advance;", "Let him be first to face this royal chance."]}, {"id": "D9.13.4", "lines": ["He is still young, while I am old and weak,", "Too frail to face the death those lions seek."]}, {"id": "D9.13.5", "lines": ["Let him employ his youth and vigor first,", "And prove the claim for which his heart has thirst.”"]}, {"id": "D9.13.6", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Your answer pleases well;", "No just proposal would I now repel.”"]}, {"id": "D9.13.7", "lines": ["He took an ox-head gorz into his hand,", "While wonder spread through all the watching land."]}, {"id": "D9.13.8", "lines": ["A Mobad said, “O king of wisdom, bright", "With knowledge, walking in the path of right,"]}, {"id": "D9.13.9", "lines": ["Who bids you fight these lions? What reward", "Beyond the crown can such a fight afford?"]}, {"id": "D9.13.10", "lines": ["Do not give up your life for kingship’s sake,", "Or feed the fish through such a vain mistake."]}, {"id": "D9.13.11", "lines": ["No blame is ours; this venture is your own;", "The world’s whole heart inclines toward your throne.”"]}, {"id": "D9.13.12", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “O guardian of the creed,", "You and the rest are blameless in this deed."]}, {"id": "D9.13.13", "lines": ["I am the man to face these lions’ might;", "To battle with the brave is my delight.”"]}, {"id": "D9.13.14", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Before you face that test,", "Seek God in prayer, and cleanse your sinful breast.”"]}, {"id": "D9.13.15", "lines": ["He did as told, repenting of his sin,", "And cleansed his heart of all the stains within."]}, {"id": "D9.13.16", "lines": ["Then came the wise Shah, resolute of face,", "With ox-head gorz in hand, and took his place."]}, {"id": "D9.13.17", "lines": ["When those fierce lions saw the hero near,", "One snapped its chain and charged without a fear."]}, {"id": "D9.13.18", "lines": ["The king struck hard upon the lion’s head,", "And dimmed its eyes and left the creature dead."]}, {"id": "D9.13.19", "lines": ["He struck the second lion’s skull; it bled;", "From eyes to breast its blood ran dark and red."]}, {"id": "D9.13.20", "lines": ["He sat upon the ivory seat and pressed", "The heart-delighting crown upon his crest."]}, {"id": "D9.13.21", "lines": ["Then Khosrow came before him, bowed his head,", "And to the king these words of blessing said:"]}, {"id": "D9.13.22", "lines": ["“Blessed be your reign upon the royal seat;", "May every hero bow before your feet."]}, {"id": "D9.13.23", "lines": ["You are the Shah; we are your slaves today,", "And shall advance your purpose every way."]}, {"id": "D9.13.24", "lines": ["In God, the Refuge, let us seek our stay,", "Who guides all those who from the path would stray.”"]}, {"id": "D9.13.25", "lines": ["The mighty men showered jewels on his crown,", "While blessings from the gathered world poured down."]}, {"id": "D9.13.26", "lines": ["In Azar, on Soroush’s day, the cheer", "Rose from the world and rang to heaven’s sphere."]}, {"id": "D9.13.27", "lines": ["A cloud has risen and obscured the moon;", "From its black heart the falling snow is strewn."]}, {"id": "D9.13.28", "lines": ["No stream, no plain, no upland meets my eye;", "The raven’s plumes are swallowed by the sky."]}, {"id": "D9.13.29", "lines": ["No firewood, salted meat, nor barley store", "Remains till barley harvest brings us more."]}, {"id": "D9.13.30", "lines": ["Amid this gloom and dread of tax, the snow", "Makes earth an ivory mountain here below."]}, {"id": "D9.13.31", "lines": ["My whole estate can scarcely longer stand,", "Unless some faithful friend should grasp my hand."]}, {"id": "D9.13.32", "lines": ["Now hear the strangest tale I can convey;", "No greater wonder could my words portray."]}]}, {"id": "D10", "title": "The Bahram Goor Cycle: Justice, Foreign Adventures, and End of a Reign", "summary": "40 sections · 2,575 couplets", "path": "/poem/d10/", "couplets": [{"id": "D10.1.1", "lines": ["When Bahram Goor was crowned and raised to reign,", "The sun acclaimed the Shah, and blessed his gain."]}, {"id": "D10.1.2", "lines": ["He worshipped God, the all-wise Lord on high,", "The watchful One who sees both earth and sky."]}, {"id": "D10.1.3", "lines": ["Yazdan of victory, whose glories shine,", "Who orders gain and loss by His design."]}, {"id": "D10.1.4", "lines": ["Yazdan of justice, counsel, and our bread,", "The Guide by whom our onward steps are led."]}, {"id": "D10.1.5", "lines": ["He said, “From Him I have received this crown;", "From Him, who fashions fortune, thrones come down."]}, {"id": "D10.1.6", "lines": ["From Him come hope and fear; to Him I raise", "My thanks for all His goodness, all my praise."]}, {"id": "D10.1.7", "lines": ["You too should glory in Him; strive each day", "To keep His covenant and never stray.”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.8", "lines": ["Iran replied, “We stand prepared to serve;", "From faithful service we shall never swerve."]}, {"id": "D10.1.9", "lines": ["May this crown bless the Shah; may Fortune thrive,", "And keep his heart and happy lot alive.”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.10", "lines": ["When praise was done, they scattered gems around", "The king, whose fame rang out with joyful sound."]}, {"id": "D10.1.11", "lines": ["Bahram said, “Chiefs experienced and wise,", "Who know how Fortune falls and how she flies,"]}, {"id": "D10.1.12", "lines": ["We all are slaves; God is the only Lord,", "And He alone deserves to be adored."]}, {"id": "D10.1.13", "lines": ["I shall keep you from evil days and dread,", "Nor make you beg ill-wishers’ help instead.”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.14", "lines": ["He spoke; they rose and gave him homage then,", "And blessed him with their voices once again."]}, {"id": "D10.1.15", "lines": ["They talked throughout the night till morning’s ray", "Revealed the sun upon its heavenly way."]}, {"id": "D10.1.16", "lines": ["At sunrise, calm, he took the royal seat;", "Iran’s great chiefs came forth his words to greet."]}, {"id": "D10.1.17", "lines": ["He said, “You chiefs whom favoring stars have blessed,", "Trust God, rejoice in Him, and find your rest."]}, {"id": "D10.1.18", "lines": ["Boast not, and root out worldly greed and pride;", "Let not your hearts be tangled with its tide.”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.19", "lines": ["He spoke; they called the royal horse to wait,", "And dressed his court in fitting royal state."]}, {"id": "D10.1.20", "lines": ["Upon the third day, seated, he declared,", "“The rites of worship must be shown and shared."]}, {"id": "D10.1.21", "lines": ["With God’s existence let our witness stand;", "And let the soul learn Faith and understand."]}, {"id": "D10.1.22", "lines": ["There is resurrection, heaven, and hell;", "Each soul shall reap its deeds, done ill or well."]}, {"id": "D10.1.23", "lines": ["Call no man wise or faithful in his way", "Who disbelieves in Reckoning’s final day.”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.24", "lines": ["The fourth day, on the ivory throne, he wore", "The splendid crown that he had won before."]}, {"id": "D10.1.25", "lines": ["He said, “No treasure gives me such delight", "As people whose contented hearts are bright."]}, {"id": "D10.1.26", "lines": ["This passing world I do not crave or claim;", "I grudge not leaving power, wealth, and fame."]}, {"id": "D10.1.27", "lines": ["The other world endures; this world will fade;", "Shun greed and grief; by neither be dismayed.”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.28", "lines": ["The fifth day, “While I rule, no man’s distress,”", "He said, “shall ever bring me happiness."]}, {"id": "D10.1.29", "lines": ["We seek the joys that Paradise supplies;", "Blessed is he whose seed of good shall rise.”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.30", "lines": ["The sixth day to his subjects he then said,", "“May I not seek your ruin, pain, or dread."]}, {"id": "D10.1.31", "lines": ["We will protect our forces from the foe,", "And make ill-wishers tremble where they go.”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.32", "lines": ["The seventh day, when seated, he began:", "“You chiefs of wisdom, wary in your plan,"]}, {"id": "D10.1.33", "lines": ["With harsh men, we shall deal as harshly too;", "With wise men, seek a friendship firm and true."]}, {"id": "D10.1.34", "lines": ["Those cold to me shall fare with harsher fate", "Than with my father in his angry state."]}, {"id": "D10.1.35", "lines": ["But those who do my will shall never know", "The weight of sorrow, injury, or woe.”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.36", "lines": ["The eighth day, seated in his royal seat,", "He called for Javanuy, the scribe discreet."]}, {"id": "D10.1.37", "lines": ["He said, “To every chief in every land,", "Write letters bearing this our just command."]}, {"id": "D10.1.38", "lines": ["Let them be just and loving in their tone,", "And say, ‘Bahram sits joyful on the throne."]}, {"id": "D10.1.39", "lines": ["A lord of bounty, who will turn aside", "From crookedness, with truthfulness his guide."]}, {"id": "D10.1.40", "lines": ["His stature, justice, farr, and love are plain;", "Thoughts of the holy Judge alone remain."]}, {"id": "D10.1.41", "lines": ["He says, “I welcome loyal hearts; but crime", "Excused will multiply with passing time."]}, {"id": "D10.1.42", "lines": ["I sit upon my father’s throne, and hold", "To just Tahmuras’s customs as of old."]}, {"id": "D10.1.43", "lines": ["However far their hearts from right may swerve,", "All shall receive the justice they deserve."]}, {"id": "D10.1.44", "lines": ["I shall surpass my fathers in the right,", "And guide you to the Faith by wisdom’s light."]}, {"id": "D10.1.45", "lines": ["I follow Zardosht’s faith, the prophet’s way,", "And from my fathers’ path will never stray."]}, {"id": "D10.1.46", "lines": ["I set Zardosht’s old faith before my view,", "And Abraham, the prophet firm and true."]}, {"id": "D10.1.47", "lines": ["Let each be sovereign in his own affairs,", "And guard his march and Faith with equal cares."]}, {"id": "D10.1.48", "lines": ["Rule child and wife with wisdom at your door;", "Blessed are the wise and pure forevermore."]}, {"id": "D10.1.49", "lines": ["I will not fill my vaults with golden gain,", "For hoarded treasure keeps the poor in pain."]}, {"id": "D10.1.50", "lines": ["If God grants life and Fortune’s stars still shine,", "And lets their favor bless this life of mine,"]}, {"id": "D10.1.51", "lines": ["Another joyful letter you shall see,", "With lasting wealth and honor yours to be."]}, {"id": "D10.1.52", "lines": ["Our greeting goes to every king and lord,", "Most warmly where love binds us in accord.”’”"]}, {"id": "D10.1.53", "lines": ["Then on the letters royal seals were pressed;", "They called the envoys forth and had them blessed."]}, {"id": "D10.1.54", "lines": ["The Mobadan bore letters on their way,", "With wise, discerning riders in array."]}, {"id": "D10.2.1", "lines": ["Next day, when sunrise crowned the mountain height,", "And sleep was broken by the morning light,"]}, {"id": "D10.2.2", "lines": ["Men with whom Bahram was displeased drew near,", "And begged that Monzer make their grievance clear."]}, {"id": "D10.2.3", "lines": ["They said, “Plead for us, that he may forgive", "Our faults, and let our shaken spirits live."]}, {"id": "D10.2.4", "lines": ["The crimes of Yazdegard had chilled our blood,", "And drowned the nobles’ hearts in fear’s dark flood."]}, {"id": "D10.2.5", "lines": ["So much foul word and deed, distress and pain,", "Had made our hearts grow cold toward Bahram’s reign."]}, {"id": "D10.2.6", "lines": ["We suffered long beneath his father’s hand;", "Hence came our coldness, which you understand.”"]}, {"id": "D10.2.7", "lines": ["Monzer’s warm pleading softened Bahram’s heart;", "His words prevailed through all persuasion’s art."]}, {"id": "D10.2.8", "lines": ["He pardoned all who played a guilty part,", "For he was just and noble from the start."]}, {"id": "D10.2.9", "lines": ["He decked the royal palace richly then,", "And all the good and great came there again."]}, {"id": "D10.2.10", "lines": ["When they had made the royal hall ornate,", "They seated worthy men by rank and weight."]}, {"id": "D10.2.11", "lines": ["In every place they spread the festive board,", "With wine and players striking harp and chord."]}, {"id": "D10.2.12", "lines": ["Next day another crowd came to his hall;", "The Shah still gladly feasted with them all."]}, {"id": "D10.2.13", "lines": ["The third day brought more revelry and feast;", "Wine flowed, and sorrow in the palace ceased."]}, {"id": "D10.2.14", "lines": ["He told what Numan and Monzer had done,", "Those stainless men through whom his crown was won."]}, {"id": "D10.2.15", "lines": ["The chiefs acclaimed the settled desert land,", "And praised the veterans of its Arab band."]}, {"id": "D10.2.16", "lines": ["The Shah then opened wide his treasury door,", "And filled the palace from its gathered store."]}, {"id": "D10.2.17", "lines": ["Gold, gems, brocade, with trappings, steed by steed,", "With jowshans, fragrant scents, for every need."]}, {"id": "D10.2.18", "lines": ["To Numan and Monzer he gave the hoard,", "While Javanuy counted out each reward."]}, {"id": "D10.2.19", "lines": ["No king could match the gifts he gave that day,", "Or all the pains he took to give away."]}, {"id": "D10.2.20", "lines": ["He gave the Arabs gifts, and let them go,", "Rejoicing in the wealth he could bestow."]}, {"id": "D10.2.21", "lines": ["He had a robe of honor brought, a mount,", "And Pahlevan’s rich garb of high account."]}, {"id": "D10.2.22", "lines": ["They gave these gifts to Khosrow by command,", "And seated him in honor, high and grand."]}, {"id": "D10.2.23", "lines": ["Then Bahram stepped down from his royal seat,", "And went toward Narsi, there his kin to greet."]}, {"id": "D10.2.24", "lines": ["This younger brother shared his heart and mind;", "Their speech agreed, their purposes aligned."]}, {"id": "D10.2.25", "lines": ["He made Narsi sepahbod of the force,", "To set the kingdom on an ordered course."]}, {"id": "D10.2.26", "lines": ["He placed the army in his brother’s care,", "And ruled with bounty, giving all their share."]}, {"id": "D10.2.27", "lines": ["He opened up the treasuries he held,", "Paid troops in dinars, and their gloom dispelled."]}, {"id": "D10.2.28", "lines": ["Then Bahram, friend of all, issued command", "That Gashasp, learned scribe, should take his stand."]}, {"id": "D10.2.29", "lines": ["With prudent Javanuy, chief of account,", "He came to calculate the tax amount."]}, {"id": "D10.2.30", "lines": ["The Shah commanded them to lift the load", "Of all arrears the kingdom’s people owed."]}, {"id": "D10.2.31", "lines": ["They sought the counting-house to read each scroll,", "And went to Kayvan, master of the roll."]}, {"id": "D10.2.32", "lines": ["For he was expert in accounts and art,", "And knew the realm’s assessments part by part."]}, {"id": "D10.2.33", "lines": ["They summed arrears and found the total due,", "A mountain built from levies old and new."]}, {"id": "D10.2.34", "lines": ["They counted ninety-three million in arrears,", "In dirhams, debts accrued through former years."]}, {"id": "D10.2.35", "lines": ["He cleared the debts and burned each ledger-leaf;", "Iran rejoiced, its people freed from grief."]}, {"id": "D10.2.36", "lines": ["When all the people learned what he had done,", "They praised him mightily beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "D10.2.37", "lines": ["They flocked to fire-temples, festival halls,", "Where New Year joy and Sadeh filled the walls."]}, {"id": "D10.2.38", "lines": ["They cast sweet musk upon the sacred fire,", "And blessed the Shah with all their hearts’ desire."]}, {"id": "D10.2.39", "lines": ["He sent out men of knowledge far and wide,", "To travel through the world on every side."]}, {"id": "D10.2.40", "lines": ["He gathered exiles, scattered in his pride", "By Yazdegard, in one town to abide."]}, {"id": "D10.2.41", "lines": ["He summoned them by letter to his hall,", "The freeborn nobles, sending word to all."]}, {"id": "D10.2.42", "lines": ["He gave each robes of honor and a place,", "With lands befitting each man’s rank and grace."]}, {"id": "D10.2.43", "lines": ["The nobles and Mobadan all heard the cry", "The royal heralds raised as they passed by."]}, {"id": "D10.2.44", "lines": ["They visited his court with open heart,", "Their faces bright, their former fears apart."]}, {"id": "D10.2.45", "lines": ["He sent the suitors to the Mobad’s hall,", "The chief of priests, to judge the claims of all."]}, {"id": "D10.2.46", "lines": ["When all the world had knelt to him, he sent", "A herald to the gate with this intent:"]}, {"id": "D10.2.47", "lines": ["“You subjects of the watchful Shah, abstain", "From sin and sorrow, anguish, fear, and pain."]}, {"id": "D10.2.48", "lines": ["Praise him whose justice makes the earth bear fruit,", "And brings prosperity from shoot to root."]}, {"id": "D10.2.49", "lines": ["Take refuge from the world with God alone,", "For He helps all; the world is all His own."]}, {"id": "D10.2.50", "lines": ["Who heeds our word and walks our loyal way,", "And never turns from fealty astray,"]}, {"id": "D10.2.51", "lines": ["To him increasing favors we shall show,", "And from our hearts both hate and greed shall go."]}, {"id": "D10.2.52", "lines": ["But those who turn from justice and rebel", "Shall know our punishment, and know it well."]}, {"id": "D10.2.53", "lines": ["If God grants strength, and Fortune turns her gaze,", "And crowns our labor with her brightening rays,"]}, {"id": "D10.2.54", "lines": ["We shall increase our favors all your days,", "And you shall answer us with words of praise.”"]}, {"id": "D10.2.55", "lines": ["At these words all the people went away,", "With joyful hearts and faces bright as day."]}, {"id": "D10.2.56", "lines": ["The throne stood firm; joy grew throughout the land,", "And sorrow dwindled under his command."]}, {"id": "D10.3.1", "lines": ["One day Bahram Goor rode out on his way,", "With chosen warriors, seeking lion prey."]}, {"id": "D10.3.2", "lines": ["An old man, staff in hand, approached the king,", "And said, “God-fearing Shah, hear what I bring."]}, {"id": "D10.3.3", "lines": ["Within our town two men are known by name;", "One rich, one poor, their fortunes not the same."]}, {"id": "D10.3.4", "lines": ["Baraham the Jew, a miscreant knave,", "Has gold and silver, more than hearts could crave."]}, {"id": "D10.3.5", "lines": ["But Lambak bears men water and is kind,", "A gracious host, warm-hearted and refined.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.6", "lines": ["Bahram asked his attendants to explain", "The old man’s words, and make their meaning plain."]}, {"id": "D10.3.7", "lines": ["A worthy said, “Great king of noble name,", "Lambak’s good words and welcome earn acclaim."]}, {"id": "D10.3.8", "lines": ["He carries water, generous and kind,", "With food to share and friendliness of mind."]}, {"id": "D10.3.9", "lines": ["Half of each day he bears his water round;", "The rest he seeks where travelers may be found."]}, {"id": "D10.3.10", "lines": ["He leaves no store behind for days unborn,", "But gives as though for giving he was born."]}, {"id": "D10.3.11", "lines": ["Baraham’s heart is barren, hard, and cold;", "His grasping nature plainly could be told."]}, {"id": "D10.3.12", "lines": ["He has great hoards of dirhams, locked and sealed,", "Brocaded furnishings, and gold concealed."]}, {"id": "D10.3.13", "lines": ["Yet no one sees his bread or tastes his meat;", "He hates the guest who enters from the street.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.14", "lines": ["The Shah then bade a herald cry aloud:", "“Go to the market; tell the gathered crowd:"]}, {"id": "D10.3.15", "lines": ["‘Whoever buys from Lambak at the well", "Shall feel the Shah’s fierce wrath; let none rebel.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.16", "lines": ["He waited till the sun began to fade,", "Then rode a swift horse through the evening shade."]}, {"id": "D10.3.17", "lines": ["Like wind he came to Lambak’s humble gate,", "And struck the ring, though night was growing late."]}, {"id": "D10.3.18", "lines": ["He cried, “A captain of Iran am I;", "I missed the Shah as darkness filled the sky."]}, {"id": "D10.3.19", "lines": ["Grant me a lodging underneath your roof;", "Of kindness that would be a noble proof.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.20", "lines": ["Pleased by the voice that spoke so fair and clear,", "Lambak rejoiced, that friendly speech to hear."]}, {"id": "D10.3.21", "lines": ["He said, “Come, Pahlevan; be welcome here!", "May you be one the Shah holds ever dear."]}, {"id": "D10.3.22", "lines": ["Had ten companions come with you instead,", "Each would have been a moon above my head.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.23", "lines": ["Bahram dismounted; Lambak took the steed,", "And tended it with glad and careful heed."]}, {"id": "D10.3.24", "lines": ["He rubbed it down and tied the horse, then passed", "A cord around its neck to hold it fast."]}, {"id": "D10.3.25", "lines": ["When Bahram sat, his host ran up to bring", "A chessboard, which he set before the king."]}, {"id": "D10.3.26", "lines": ["He furnished all things needful with delight,", "And found the means to feed his guest that night."]}, {"id": "D10.3.27", "lines": ["He said, “My noble guest, put play aside;", "Leave chess, and eat the meal I now provide.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.28", "lines": ["When they had eaten, and their spirits soared,", "The host brought wine, and merry cheer was poured."]}, {"id": "D10.3.29", "lines": ["The Shah was filled with wonder at the feast,", "The kindly words, the cheer that never ceased."]}, {"id": "D10.3.30", "lines": ["He passed the night there; at the break of day,", "His host’s voice woke him as asleep he lay."]}, {"id": "D10.3.31", "lines": ["He said, “Your horse, in truth, fared ill last night;", "Its needs were not attended to quite right."]}, {"id": "D10.3.32", "lines": ["Stay one more day; if company would please,", "A friend shall come to put you at your ease."]}, {"id": "D10.3.33", "lines": ["We shall provide what may delight you all;", "Stay happily today within my hall.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.34", "lines": ["The king replied, “My tasks today are few;", "I have no pressing business to pursue.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.35", "lines": ["He took his skins and went to sell his store,", "But found no buyers for the load he bore."]}, {"id": "D10.3.36", "lines": ["Distressed, he pulled his shirt off, then drew near", "And gathered to his breast his carrying gear."]}, {"id": "D10.3.37", "lines": ["He pawned his linen sash without delay,", "And bought fresh meat and curds and came away."]}, {"id": "D10.3.38", "lines": ["He set the pot upon the fire to boil,", "While Bahram marked his generous care and toil."]}, {"id": "D10.3.39", "lines": ["Lambak prepared the meal; they ate their fill,", "Then sat with wine in friendship and goodwill."]}, {"id": "D10.3.40", "lines": ["All night Bahram drank deep and freely poured;", "Wine-loving Lambak kept him at the board."]}, {"id": "D10.3.41", "lines": ["At dawn he hurried in to greet his guest,", "And spoke with warmth, and made this glad request:"]}, {"id": "D10.3.42", "lines": ["“Be merry always; may all toil depart,", "And trouble never weigh upon your heart."]}, {"id": "D10.3.43", "lines": ["Spend one more day with me, and I shall hold", "Your company as dear as life and gold.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.44", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “God grant that I may stay,", "Nor lose, with such a friend, this third glad day.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.45", "lines": ["The water-carrier blessed him: “May you keep", "A wakeful heart, and Fortune never sleep.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.46", "lines": ["He pledged his very water-skin in trade,", "And on his gear a final bargain made."]}, {"id": "D10.3.47", "lines": ["He bought what he required and homeward sped,", "Rejoicing as he brought the meat and bread."]}, {"id": "D10.3.48", "lines": ["He said to Bahram, “Help prepare the meat;", "For nourishment, a man has need to eat.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.49", "lines": ["Bahram took up the meat and cut it through,", "Then cooked it on the fire, and made the stew."]}, {"id": "D10.3.50", "lines": ["When they had eaten, wine and cups were brought;", "The king of kings came first in toast and thought."]}, {"id": "D10.3.51", "lines": ["When they had drunk, he made his guest a bed,", "And set a candle near his resting head."]}, {"id": "D10.3.52", "lines": ["The fourth day, when the sun dispersed the gloom,", "Bahram awoke within the humble room."]}, {"id": "D10.3.53", "lines": ["His host approached and said, “O man of mark,", "You have stayed in this house, so cramped and dark."]}, {"id": "D10.3.54", "lines": ["You find no comfort here; yet if you see", "No cause to fear Iran’s Shah, stay with me."]}, {"id": "D10.3.55", "lines": ["Stay two weeks more within my mean abode,", "If such a wish should draw you from the road.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.56", "lines": ["Then Shah Bahram blessed him and replied,", "“May mirth and happiness with you abide."]}, {"id": "D10.3.57", "lines": ["Three days within this house were spent in glee,", "While cups were raised to kings of each degree."]}, {"id": "D10.3.58", "lines": ["Elsewhere I shall recount all you have done,", "To brighten heart and mind with joy thus won."]}, {"id": "D10.3.59", "lines": ["Your hospitality shall yield you fruit;", "Persist, and crowns and thrones may follow suit.”"]}, {"id": "D10.3.60", "lines": ["Swift as the dust, he saddled up his steed,", "And gladly sought the chase with eager speed."]}, {"id": "D10.3.61", "lines": ["He hunted till night veiled the mountainside,", "Then from his group of men he turned aside."]}, {"id": "D10.4.1", "lines": ["He slipped away and sought the miser’s door,", "The house of Baraham, who hoarded store."]}, {"id": "D10.4.2", "lines": ["He knocked and said, “The Shah returned from chase,", "But I was left behind and lost my place."]}, {"id": "D10.4.3", "lines": ["Night has come on; I cannot find the way,", "Nor find the Shah or troops who rode today."]}, {"id": "D10.4.4", "lines": ["If I may lodge within this house tonight,", "I shall disturb none till the morning light.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.5", "lines": ["A servant went to Baraham to tell", "What words the rider spoke, reporting well."]}, {"id": "D10.4.6", "lines": ["Baraham said, “Be easy; tell him so:", "There is no lodging here, and he must go.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.7", "lines": ["The servant carried out that curt reply:", "“My master will no lodging here supply.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.8", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Go back and tell him plain:", "‘I mean to stay the night; I shall remain."]}, {"id": "D10.4.9", "lines": ["I ask a corner only till the day;", "No further claim shall on his household weigh.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.10", "lines": ["The servant ran within and made report:", "“This horseman will not leave the outer court."]}, {"id": "D10.4.11", "lines": ["He will not leave tonight; though long we pleaded,", "He stays, and not a word of ours is heeded.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.12", "lines": ["Then Baraham replied, “Go tell him straight:", "‘This house is small and poor in its estate."]}, {"id": "D10.4.13", "lines": ["The Jew is poor; each night he sleeps on ground,", "Bare, hungry, with no comfort to be found.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.14", "lines": ["They brought the message; Bahram answered plain,", "“Without a lodging, trouble will remain."]}, {"id": "D10.4.15", "lines": ["I shall sleep by your door and seek no more;", "That is the only shelter I ask for.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.16", "lines": ["“Brave Pahlevan,” said Baraham, “I fear", "Your thoughtless conduct brings me trouble here."]}, {"id": "D10.4.17", "lines": ["If someone robs you while you sleep tonight,", "You will trouble me with your sorry plight."]}, {"id": "D10.4.18", "lines": ["If dire need drives you, enter and abide,", "But ask for nothing once you come inside."]}, {"id": "D10.4.19", "lines": ["I have no cloth to dry my corpse when dead,", "Nor shroud to wrap me for my final bed."]}, {"id": "D10.4.20", "lines": ["Your horse needs fodder; you need food; the load", "Of both will fall on me and my abode."]}, {"id": "D10.4.21", "lines": ["If dung or urine from your horse should fall,", "Or it should break the bricks within this hall,"]}, {"id": "D10.4.22", "lines": ["At dawn you shall sweep dung from off the floor,", "And bear it to the plain outside my door."]}, {"id": "D10.4.23", "lines": ["For broken bricks you must repay the cost,", "When you awake, to make good what is lost.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.24", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I pledge my head to bear", "These burdens, and perform my promised share.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.25", "lines": ["He stepped down, tied his horse with bridle tight,", "And drew his sword, unsheathing it that night."]}, {"id": "D10.4.26", "lines": ["He spread the felt, stretched out upon the ground;", "His saddle was his pillow; sleep he found."]}, {"id": "D10.4.27", "lines": ["The miser locked the door and brought out food,", "Then sat to eat alone in selfish mood."]}, {"id": "D10.4.28", "lines": ["He said, “O horseman, hear this ancient lore;", "Remember it, and keep it evermore."]}, {"id": "D10.4.29", "lines": ["The man who has the means may eat his fill;", "The man without must watch, and hunger still.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.30", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I know that proverb well;", "The ancient sages had that tale to tell."]}, {"id": "D10.4.31", "lines": ["I heard it once; I see it here tonight,", "The sage’s words brought plainly into sight.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.32", "lines": ["The miser brought out wine to crown his meal;", "The drink increased the joy that he could feel."]}, {"id": "D10.4.33", "lines": ["He cried, “O horseman, worn by toil and care,", "Hear this old saying, which I now declare:"]}, {"id": "D10.4.34", "lines": ["‘The man of substance keeps a happy mind,", "And in his wealth a jowshan he will find."]}, {"id": "D10.4.35", "lines": ["But empty pockets bring a dry-lipped plight,", "Like you, half-starved here in the dead of night.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.36", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I must not soon forget", "The marvels that within this house I met."]}, {"id": "D10.4.37", "lines": ["If wine should bring you fortune bright and clear,", "Bless drinker, wine, and cup that brings such cheer.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.38", "lines": ["When sunrise showed its sword above the height,", "Bahram Goor rose and left the sleep of night."]}, {"id": "D10.4.39", "lines": ["He saddled up his hungry mount of gray;", "A saddle? No, the headrest where he lay."]}, {"id": "D10.4.40", "lines": ["Then Baraham approached and said, “O guest,", "You have not kept the word that you professed."]}, {"id": "D10.4.41", "lines": ["You said you would sweep up your horse’s waste;", "Now take it out, and do it all with haste."]}, {"id": "D10.4.42", "lines": ["I am annoyed by guests who lie and cheat;", "Remove the dung before you leave my street.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.43", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Go fetch a slave instead;", "He shall clear dung away from where it spread."]}, {"id": "D10.4.44", "lines": ["I shall give gold to sweep up every grain,", "And bear the refuse out upon the plain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.45", "lines": ["The miser said, “I have no slave for work;", "Take it away yourself and do not shirk."]}, {"id": "D10.4.46", "lines": ["Fling it into the ditch and keep your word;", "Let no charge of dishonor now be heard.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.47", "lines": ["Bahram Goor heard and chose another way;", "A fresh idea would guide him through the day."]}, {"id": "D10.4.48", "lines": ["Within his boot a silken cloth was pressed,", "With musk and fragrant spices richly dressed."]}, {"id": "D10.4.49", "lines": ["He wrapped the droppings in that silken fold,", "And flung them in the ditch as he was told."]}, {"id": "D10.4.50", "lines": ["Then Baraham ran out and snatched it fast,", "While Shah Bahram stood stunned at what had passed."]}, {"id": "D10.4.51", "lines": ["“Most upright man, should our Shah come to hear", "Your noble deeds, he shall hold you most dear."]}, {"id": "D10.4.52", "lines": ["The great king would secure you from all dearth,", "And rank you with the chiefs of highest birth.”"]}, {"id": "D10.4.53", "lines": ["He left and came back to his palace hall,", "And planned throughout the night what should befall."]}, {"id": "D10.4.54", "lines": ["He lay down full of thought, and laughed alone;", "But kept the secret, letting none be shown."]}, {"id": "D10.5.1", "lines": ["At dawn the Shah sat crowned to arbitrate,", "And let the army enter through the gate."]}, {"id": "D10.5.2", "lines": ["He summoned Lambak, who obeyed the call,", "And stood with folded arms within the hall."]}, {"id": "D10.5.3", "lines": ["They brought in Baraham, whose mind was bent", "On malice, and whose heart held ill intent."]}, {"id": "D10.5.4", "lines": ["When he arrived, they bade him sit and stay,", "Then called an honest man without delay."]}, {"id": "D10.5.5", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Take pack animals in hand,", "And let strict justice guide what you have planned."]}, {"id": "D10.5.6", "lines": ["Go to the house of Baraham, and pack", "Whatever hoards you find, and bring them back.”"]}, {"id": "D10.5.7", "lines": ["The honest man went to the miser’s door;", "He found it crammed with hoard and heaped-up store."]}, {"id": "D10.5.8", "lines": ["There lay brocades, dinars, and robes in rows,", "With carpets, draperies, and silken clothes."]}, {"id": "D10.5.9", "lines": ["A caravanserai stood in the court;", "For all the goods, the space was far too short."]}, {"id": "D10.5.10", "lines": ["There gleamed pearls, rubies, gems of every hue,", "And crowns atop the bags that came to view."]}, {"id": "D10.5.11", "lines": ["The Mobad could not count the wealth amassed,", "And called from Jahram a thousand camels fast."]}, {"id": "D10.5.12", "lines": ["They loaded them; some goods were left behind;", "He drove the train away with cheerful mind."]}, {"id": "D10.5.13", "lines": ["When caravan bells sounded at the gate,", "The honest man went in to tell their state."]}, {"id": "D10.5.14", "lines": ["“Your gems are matched by these; yet in that hold", "Two hundred kharvars still are left, all told.”"]}, {"id": "D10.5.15", "lines": ["The Shah was struck with wonder at this sight,", "And pondered what the hoard had brought to light."]}, {"id": "D10.5.16", "lines": ["He thought, “The miser labored hard for gain,", "Yet gained no sustenance for all his pain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.5.17", "lines": ["A hundred camel-loads of gold they made,", "With dirhams, furnishings, and goods arrayed."]}, {"id": "D10.5.18", "lines": ["He gave to Lambak all this treasure bright;", "The water-carrier bore it from his sight."]}, {"id": "D10.5.19", "lines": ["Then Bahram called the miser back and said,", "“O man whose meanness makes the dust his bed,"]}, {"id": "D10.5.20", "lines": ["How long did your own prophet live, you say?", "Why weep for so much surplus wealth today?"]}, {"id": "D10.5.21", "lines": ["A horseman came and spoke these words to me,", "An ancient saying, plain for all to see:"]}, {"id": "D10.5.22", "lines": ["‘The man who has enjoys his ample fare;", "The man without grows withered in despair.’"]}, {"id": "D10.5.23", "lines": ["Now loose your grip on all you would not spare,", "And watch the water-carrier take his share.”"]}, {"id": "D10.5.24", "lines": ["Of dung and cloth and bricks the monarch told,", "Recalling too the fabric worked with gold."]}, {"id": "D10.5.25", "lines": ["He gave four dirhams, saying, “For your part,", "Take these as capital to make a start."]}, {"id": "D10.5.26", "lines": ["No more befits you; let the poor be fed", "With all your wealth, while you retain your head.”"]}, {"id": "D10.5.27", "lines": ["He gave the goods to those whose worth was known;", "The miser went away with wail and groan."]}, {"id": "D10.5.28", "lines": ["He gave the house to plunder on that day;", "Let others have their turn to take away."]}, {"id": "D10.6.1", "lines": ["He turned his thoughts to cheetah, hawk, and chase,", "And rode a swift steed from the royal place."]}, {"id": "D10.6.2", "lines": ["With hawk in hand, he rode in eager quest,", "To hunt the game he loved and favored best."]}, {"id": "D10.6.3", "lines": ["He found a wood, a wealthy lord’s retreat,", "A thickly wooded place, serene and sweet."]}, {"id": "D10.6.4", "lines": ["As green as Paradise, a lovely glade,", "No man or beast appeared beneath its shade."]}, {"id": "D10.6.5", "lines": ["He said, “This is a place where lions dwell,", "Where daring warriors prove their mettle well.”"]}, {"id": "D10.6.6", "lines": ["He rode and searched the woodland all around,", "And scanned each part of that secluded ground."]}, {"id": "D10.6.7", "lines": ["Within the wood a savage lion appeared;", "He saw the need for swordplay as it neared."]}, {"id": "D10.6.8", "lines": ["He shouted at the lion standing near,", "And strung his bow, a warrior without fear."]}, {"id": "D10.6.9", "lines": ["He shot through side and heart; the lion fell,", "His mate’s heart burned, and grief began to swell."]}, {"id": "D10.6.10", "lines": ["She charged at Bahram, roaring in her wrath,", "And struck with claws at him across her path."]}, {"id": "D10.6.11", "lines": ["He struck her middle with his sharpened blade;", "The beast gave up the fight beneath the shade."]}, {"id": "D10.6.12", "lines": ["An old man left the wood with words of grace;", "Sweet speech was ready as he neared the place."]}, {"id": "D10.6.13", "lines": ["His name was Mehr Bandad; his heart was glad", "To see the force that Bahram’s sword-stroke had."]}, {"id": "D10.6.14", "lines": ["He was a country lord who worshipped God;", "That wood was home, the place his footsteps trod."]}, {"id": "D10.6.15", "lines": ["With courteous words he blessed the Shah, and bowed,", "Approaching low, with reverence avowed."]}, {"id": "D10.6.16", "lines": ["He said, “Famed chief, may Fortune’s guiding star", "Attend your wishes, whether near or far."]}, {"id": "D10.6.17", "lines": ["A country lord am I, as I declare;", "This march, these fields, this house are in my care."]}, {"id": "D10.6.18", "lines": ["I own the ox, the ass, the grazing sheep;", "Those lions plunged my heart in darkness deep."]}, {"id": "D10.6.19", "lines": ["God worked through hand and hilt to end our fear,", "And through your thumb-ring; now our way is clear."]}, {"id": "D10.6.20", "lines": ["Stay in this wood and let me serve you here", "With milk and wine and honey for your cheer."]}, {"id": "D10.6.21", "lines": ["My lambs are yours, as many as you please,", "And shade and rest beneath my fruiting trees.”"]}, {"id": "D10.6.22", "lines": ["The Shah dismounted, viewed the woodland scene,", "With running waters winding through the green."]}, {"id": "D10.6.23", "lines": ["It seemed a haven made for youth’s repose,", "A place of ease where pleasure ever flows."]}, {"id": "D10.6.24", "lines": ["Then Mehr Bandad brought minstrels to the glade,", "And village chiefs, with festive food arrayed."]}, {"id": "D10.6.25", "lines": ["He slaughtered many fattened sheep and came,", "A golden cup in hand, his face aflame."]}, {"id": "D10.6.26", "lines": ["When they had eaten bread, they brought the wine,", "With rose and fenugreek beside it, fine."]}, {"id": "D10.6.27", "lines": ["The host drank first, then poured for him, and pressed", "Each comfort on his seated noble guest."]}, {"id": "D10.6.28", "lines": ["When Mehr Bandad grew merry from the cup,", "He said, “Fair hero, Fortune lifts you up."]}, {"id": "D10.6.29", "lines": ["You seem the Shah, or else the full moon’s light,", "That shines upon the world at dead of night.”"]}, {"id": "D10.6.30", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Indeed, your words are wise;", "The King of kings designed my face and eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.6.31", "lines": ["He fashions as He wills, in every way;", "He neither grows nor dwindles day by day."]}, {"id": "D10.6.32", "lines": ["If I resemble the Shah in face and air,", "I grant this wood and dwelling to your care.”"]}, {"id": "D10.6.33", "lines": ["He mounted, drunk, and rode away to rest", "Within his pleasant palace, wine-possessed."]}, {"id": "D10.6.34", "lines": ["He lay awake, still drunk, throughout the night,", "Remembering loved lips with keen delight."]}, {"id": "D10.6.35", "lines": ["He spent his time with friends in merry cheer,", "And told them varied tales for all to hear."]}, {"id": "D10.6.36", "lines": ["Next morning he took seat and called for wine;", "The captains came before him in a line."]}, {"id": "D10.6.37", "lines": ["Among them came a noble of the land,", "With fruit in camel-loads at his command."]}, {"id": "D10.6.38", "lines": ["With pomegranates, apples, quince in trays,", "With posies for the court, to win its praise."]}, {"id": "D10.6.39", "lines": ["The Shah beheld him, hailed him warm and true,", "And set him with the Pahlevans in view."]}, {"id": "D10.6.40", "lines": ["The noble bore a name from ancient days:", "Kabruy, as named in old Pahlavi phrase."]}, {"id": "D10.6.41", "lines": ["He saw the Shah, the nobles, and the feast,", "And felt his joy at all he saw increased."]}, {"id": "D10.6.42", "lines": ["He saw a crystal goblet filled with wine;", "His heart grew restless at its tempting shine."]}, {"id": "D10.6.43", "lines": ["He reached among the nobles, seized the cup,", "And sprang upon his feet to lift it up."]}, {"id": "D10.6.44", "lines": ["He toasted the king of kings, and made his claim:", "“I am a drinker; Kabruy is my name.”"]}, {"id": "D10.6.45", "lines": ["Before the Shah, he drained that brimming bowl,", "And swallowed all its contents, full and whole."]}, {"id": "D10.6.46", "lines": ["The cup held five man; then he made this vow:", "“I shall drink seven here, with steady brow."]}, {"id": "D10.6.47", "lines": ["Then sober to my village I shall go;", "No drunken shouting shall my neighbors know.”"]}, {"id": "D10.6.48", "lines": ["He drank all seven, and surpassed the rest;", "Among those drinkers, none could match his quest."]}, {"id": "D10.6.49", "lines": ["Then by the Shah’s permission he withdrew;", "Who knows what all that wine had put him through?"]}, {"id": "D10.6.50", "lines": ["He left the joyful city for the plain,", "With heated wine alive in heart and brain."]}, {"id": "D10.6.51", "lines": ["He galloped far beyond his retinue,", "Toward the hills where shaded grasses grew."]}, {"id": "D10.6.52", "lines": ["He left his horse, found shelter on the ground,", "And slept beneath the mountain shade he found."]}, {"id": "D10.6.53", "lines": ["A black crow from the mountains then came down,", "And pecked his eyes, with no one else around."]}, {"id": "D10.6.54", "lines": ["His escort followed where his horse had sped,", "And found him at the mountain lying dead."]}, {"id": "D10.6.55", "lines": ["The black crow had pecked out his eyes that day;", "His horse stood there beside him on the way."]}, {"id": "D10.6.56", "lines": ["His servants wailed above him in their grief,", "Cursed feast and cup that robbed them of their chief."]}, {"id": "D10.6.57", "lines": ["When Bahram woke within his royal place,", "A well-wisher approached him face to face."]}, {"id": "D10.6.58", "lines": ["He said, “A crow has pecked out Kabruy’s eyes,", "Where he lay drunk beneath the open skies.”"]}, {"id": "D10.6.59", "lines": ["The Shah grew pale; grief filled his heart with pain,", "As sorrow for Kabruy began to reign."]}, {"id": "D10.6.60", "lines": ["Then from the royal court a herald cried,", "“You men of farr and judgment, far and wide,"]}, {"id": "D10.6.61", "lines": ["Let Pahlevans and craftsmen all abstain;", "Wine is forbidden throughout my domain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.6.62", "lines": ["Thus passed a year while wine remained denied,", "And lips were turned from wine on every side."]}, {"id": "D10.6.63", "lines": ["Even when the Shah held feast or heard old lays,", "Wine stayed forbidden through those sober days."]}, {"id": "D10.6.64", "lines": ["None drank or longed for wine in feast or spree;", "Its color and its scent had ceased to be."]}, {"id": "D10.7.1", "lines": ["Now at that time a young shoemaker wed", "A wealthy wife, well-known and nobly bred."]}, {"id": "D10.7.2", "lines": ["But he failed in his duty as a groom,", "And left his mother sunk in bitter gloom."]}, {"id": "D10.7.3", "lines": ["She grieved aloud for his distressing case,", "Yet had some wine stored in a hidden place."]}, {"id": "D10.7.4", "lines": ["She took her son aside and bade him drink", "Seven cups, to bring his heart back from the brink."]}, {"id": "D10.7.5", "lines": ["“Tonight you may yet breach that seal so tight;", "No pick of felt can quarry stone outright.”"]}, {"id": "D10.7.6", "lines": ["He drank the seven cups his mother gave;", "His manhood stiffened, and his heart grew brave."]}, {"id": "D10.7.7", "lines": ["The cups had made the young man bold and bright;", "He came, achieved his purpose in the night."]}, {"id": "D10.7.8", "lines": ["He sought his mother’s door in happy mood,", "His former helplessness at last subdued."]}, {"id": "D10.7.9", "lines": ["A royal lion had escaped its chain,", "And roamed in majesty along the lane."]}, {"id": "D10.7.10", "lines": ["The shoemaker was still so full of wine,", "He could not count his fingers in a line."]}, {"id": "D10.7.11", "lines": ["He ran and mounted on the roaring beast,", "And clutched its ears, not frightened in the least."]}, {"id": "D10.7.12", "lines": ["The lion had been fed and did not spring;", "The youth sat firm as on some harmless thing."]}, {"id": "D10.7.13", "lines": ["The keeper hurried after them in fear,", "With chain in hand and kamand gathered near."]}, {"id": "D10.7.14", "lines": ["He saw the youth astride the lion, sure", "As on a donkey, careless and secure."]}, {"id": "D10.7.15", "lines": ["He ran at once before the palace gate,", "And told the Shah this marvel, strange and great."]}, {"id": "D10.7.16", "lines": ["He swore he saw the sight with his own eyes:", "A prodigy beneath the turning skies!"]}, {"id": "D10.7.17", "lines": ["The Shah called chiefs and Mobadan to hand,", "And bade them trace his lineage through the land."]}, {"id": "D10.7.18", "lines": ["“Discover if his blood be rich and rare;", "If Pahlevan-born, such courage fits the heir.”"]}, {"id": "D10.7.19", "lines": ["They questioned then his mother at great length:", "“Is he above his trade in birth and strength?”"]}, {"id": "D10.7.20", "lines": ["His mother hurried to the Shah to speak,", "And told the secret he had sent to seek."]}, {"id": "D10.7.21", "lines": ["“Live happily till time itself has died;", "He wed but failed to satisfy his bride."]}, {"id": "D10.7.22", "lines": ["His wife declared, ‘This weakling stands alone;", "No seed of manhood in his flesh is shown.’"]}, {"id": "D10.7.23", "lines": ["In secret, seven cups of wine I poured,", "Until his wilted vigor was restored."]}, {"id": "D10.7.24", "lines": ["His cheeks grew red; the felt, once limp and prone,", "Now raised its head and hardened into bone."]}, {"id": "D10.7.25", "lines": ["His grandfather was shoemaker by trade;", "The youth has followed in the path he made."]}, {"id": "D10.7.26", "lines": ["His lineage? Seven cups of vintage wine!", "Who dreamed the Shah would probe this blood of mine?”"]}, {"id": "D10.7.27", "lines": ["The Shah laughed at the woman, then declared:", "“This story must be told and widely shared.”"]}, {"id": "D10.7.28", "lines": ["He told the Mobad, “Wine shall be allowed;", "Choose well the men who drink among the crowd."]}, {"id": "D10.7.29", "lines": ["Drink so that you can mount a lion still,", "And keep your seat against the creature’s will."]}, {"id": "D10.7.30", "lines": ["Not like the man who, helpless on the way,", "Lay drunk, both eyes the black crow’s helpless prey.”"]}, {"id": "D10.7.31", "lines": ["A cry rang from the gate, both loud and clear:", "“You golden-belted warriors, all hear:"]}, {"id": "D10.7.32", "lines": ["Drink wine in measure; weigh what you intend,", "And look from each beginning to its end."]}, {"id": "D10.7.33", "lines": ["When wine brings joy, take care that you remain", "Its master, lest your body bear the strain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.1", "lines": ["Next day at dawn the Shah took up the rein", "To hunt with all his soldiers on the plain."]}, {"id": "D10.8.2", "lines": ["Hormizd rode on his left; and on his right", "Rode Rozbeh, that high Mobad of insight."]}, {"id": "D10.8.3", "lines": ["They told of Jamshid’s crown and bygone days,", "And Fereydoon, whom all the world would praise."]}, {"id": "D10.8.4", "lines": ["Before them hounds and cheetahs coursed the plain,", "With hawks and falcons wheeling in their train."]}, {"id": "D10.8.5", "lines": ["Thus they made short the long and tedious day,", "While the sun climbed and burned upon their way."]}, {"id": "D10.8.6", "lines": ["Yet neither deer nor Gur-e-Khar appeared;", "The Shah grew hot, his inward temper seared."]}, {"id": "D10.8.7", "lines": ["Troubled by heat, he turned from hunting back,", "And left the field along the homeward track."]}, {"id": "D10.8.8", "lines": ["He reached a settled, green, and fertile spot,", "With homes and cattle; want and care forgot."]}, {"id": "D10.8.9", "lines": ["The monarch, vexed and overcome by heat,", "Had chosen that same village for his seat."]}, {"id": "D10.8.10", "lines": ["The people came to gaze upon the king,", "But none pronounced the blessings they should bring."]}, {"id": "D10.8.11", "lines": ["One would have thought each villager a beast,", "A tethered ass that stirred not in the least."]}, {"id": "D10.8.12", "lines": ["Its folk disgusted him; he turned his face,", "And spoke in anger of that ill-starred place:"]}, {"id": "D10.8.13", "lines": ["“Let this green village be the wild beasts’ den;", "Let pitch-black water turn its fields to fen.”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.14", "lines": ["The Mobad understood the Shah’s intent,", "And turned his horse, and to the village went."]}, {"id": "D10.8.15", "lines": ["He told the folk, “This fruitful, verdant site,", "With men and cattle, pleased the Shah’s own sight."]}, {"id": "D10.8.16", "lines": ["Now hear the king’s command, and heed his plan", "To raise this village in the eyes of man."]}, {"id": "D10.8.17", "lines": ["He lifts you all to one and equal state,", "The lord and laborer alike in weight."]}, {"id": "D10.8.18", "lines": ["This pleasant village shall achieve renown;", "Each one among you wears a chieftain’s crown."]}, {"id": "D10.8.19", "lines": ["Here lord and hireling shall be counted one,", "With women, children, every daughter, son."]}, {"id": "D10.8.20", "lines": ["Each one is chief, and none shall bend the knee;", "No other master rules you: you are free.”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.21", "lines": ["The settlement rang loud with joyful noise,", "For all were lords, and shared the lordly joys."]}, {"id": "D10.8.22", "lines": ["A woman’s word now bore a man’s full weight;", "The slave and hireling shared the master’s state."]}, {"id": "D10.8.23", "lines": ["The village youths grew reckless; blood was shed", "As they struck off their village chieftain’s head."]}, {"id": "D10.8.24", "lines": ["They fell upon each other in the street,", "And blood was shed beneath their trampling feet."]}, {"id": "D10.8.25", "lines": ["Amid confusion, people fled in fear;", "The helpless aged stayed as ruin drew near."]}, {"id": "D10.8.26", "lines": ["No tools for work, no goods or crops remained;", "The settlement by ruin’s hand was stained."]}, {"id": "D10.8.27", "lines": ["Its trees were withered and its streams ran dry;", "The people with their beasts began to fly."]}, {"id": "D10.8.28", "lines": ["The land lay ruined, every house decayed;", "No work restored the wreck that strife had made."]}, {"id": "D10.8.29", "lines": ["A year passed by; and when the spring was new,", "The Shah went hunting where that ruin grew."]}, {"id": "D10.8.30", "lines": ["He reached the spot, once populous and bright,", "And saw all overturned before his sight."]}, {"id": "D10.8.31", "lines": ["The trees were withered, dwellings crushed and bare;", "No man or beast was moving anywhere."]}, {"id": "D10.8.32", "lines": ["The Shah turned pale, and fear of God arose;", "And justice stirred his heart at all these woes."]}, {"id": "D10.8.33", "lines": ["He said to Rozbeh, “What a grievous sight:", "This village ruined, once so fair and bright."]}, {"id": "D10.8.34", "lines": ["Go now and use my treasures to restore", "This place, and heal the harm its people bore.”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.35", "lines": ["The Mobad bowed, departed, spurred his horse,", "And for the ruined township set his course."]}, {"id": "D10.8.36", "lines": ["He hurried through each quarter, searching round,", "Until an elder, lacking work, was found."]}, {"id": "D10.8.37", "lines": ["Dismounting, he saluted him, and bade", "The elder sit beside him in the shade."]}, {"id": "D10.8.38", "lines": ["He said, “Old honored man, explain to me:", "Who wrecked this district, once so fair to see?”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.39", "lines": ["The old man answered, “Once our monarch passed", "Through these parts, and ruin followed fast."]}, {"id": "D10.8.40", "lines": ["A witless Mobad came along our way,", "With foolish counsel and a proud display."]}, {"id": "D10.8.41", "lines": ["He said to us, ‘You all are lords and free;", "Defer to none, whoever he may be."]}, {"id": "D10.8.42", "lines": ["Be masters all, each woman, man, and slave,", "And rank as great among the great and brave.’"]}, {"id": "D10.8.43", "lines": ["Such were his words; the township shook with strife,", "With rapine, murder, blows, and wasted life."]}, {"id": "D10.8.44", "lines": ["May God reward him as his deeds are due,", "And send him grief and hardship through and through."]}, {"id": "D10.8.45", "lines": ["Our case grows worse; whoever sees our lot", "Must weep for what has vanished and is not.”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.46", "lines": ["Then Rozbeh, grieved to hear the old man’s tale,", "Asked, “Who is chief here, where all things now fail?”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.47", "lines": ["The elder said, “A chief is found where seed", "And grass bear produce for the people’s need.”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.48", "lines": ["Rozbeh replied, “Be governor today;", "Stand like a crown and guide the proper way."]}, {"id": "D10.8.49", "lines": ["Draw gold dinars from royal stores to gain", "Both ox and ass, provisions, tools, and grain."]}, {"id": "D10.8.50", "lines": ["Bring to the village all who lack employ;", "Let labor turn this ruin back to joy."]}, {"id": "D10.8.51", "lines": ["They all are subjects; you alone are chief;", "Let ordered rule bring comfort after grief."]}, {"id": "D10.8.52", "lines": ["Do not curse that old Mobad for his part;", "Those words were not the wishes of his heart."]}, {"id": "D10.8.53", "lines": ["Need helpers from the court? Then I shall send;", "Ask what you will, and I will be your friend.”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.54", "lines": ["The elder rejoiced to hear that healing word,", "And from long grief his loosened heart was stirred."]}, {"id": "D10.8.55", "lines": ["He hurried home and brought the people down", "Beside the pool that served the ruined town."]}, {"id": "D10.8.56", "lines": ["He marked the plots and reassigned the lands,", "And placed the labor into willing hands."]}, {"id": "D10.8.57", "lines": ["They asked their neighbors for both ox and ass,", "And furnished all the plain with seed and grass."]}, {"id": "D10.8.58", "lines": ["He and his settlers labored hard and long,", "And planted trees to make the township strong."]}, {"id": "D10.8.59", "lines": ["One quarter flourished, green with springing corn;", "All eyes found joy that had been schooled to mourn."]}, {"id": "D10.8.60", "lines": ["Those who had fled with heart’s blood in their eyes", "Returned when healing rumors bade them rise."]}, {"id": "D10.8.61", "lines": ["They heard the white-haired chief had toiled and wrought,", "And back to streets and channels they were brought."]}, {"id": "D10.8.62", "lines": ["They cleared the channels; water reached the grain;", "Fowl, cattle, sheep, and asses filled the plain."]}, {"id": "D10.8.63", "lines": ["Across the settled fields their numbers grew,", "And people planted trees where ruin withdrew."]}, {"id": "D10.8.64", "lines": ["A paradise now bloomed before their eyes;", "The third year proved the elder’s labors wise."]}, {"id": "D10.8.65", "lines": ["The town was fully healed through patient toil,", "And blessing rested on that mended soil."]}, {"id": "D10.8.66", "lines": ["When joyful spring came round, the Shah bestrode", "His horse to hunt; Rozbeh beside him rode."]}, {"id": "D10.8.67", "lines": ["As they drew near the hamlet, Bahram saw", "A world of crops and cattle kept by law."]}, {"id": "D10.8.68", "lines": ["Tall mansions rose; the town stretched far and wide,", "With sheep and oxen seen on every side."]}, {"id": "D10.8.69", "lines": ["Streams and gardens, crops, and pleasure grounds,", "With fenugreek and tulips crowned the mounds."]}, {"id": "D10.8.70", "lines": ["On hill and dale the lambs and sheep were seen;", "The place was clothed in paradisal green."]}, {"id": "D10.8.71", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Rozbeh, tell what you have wrought:", "How was this village first to ruin brought?"]}, {"id": "D10.8.72", "lines": ["And what did you expend to make it rise,", "With men and beasts restored before my eyes?”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.73", "lines": ["The high Mobad replied, “By words it fell,", "And words restored it, as I now shall tell."]}, {"id": "D10.8.74", "lines": ["The Shah had said, ‘Take treasure, coin, and all,", "And make this verdant place to ruin fall.’"]}, {"id": "D10.8.75", "lines": ["But fearing God, and fearing men’s reproof,", "I sought a lesson that would stand as proof."]}, {"id": "D10.8.76", "lines": ["When one heart turns to two conflicting ends,", "It ruins both the courses it intends."]}, {"id": "D10.8.77", "lines": ["When two men rule together in one place,", "The wise man stands bewildered by the case."]}, {"id": "D10.8.78", "lines": ["I told the elders, ‘No one rules you now;", "Let none command, and none to any bow."]}, {"id": "D10.8.79", "lines": ["Women, children, slaves, and laborers all", "Are lords alike in village, street, and hall.’"]}, {"id": "D10.8.80", "lines": ["When lowly men became as lords instead,", "Down to the dust was brought the chieftain’s head."]}, {"id": "D10.8.81", "lines": ["My words brought ruin; I was free and clear", "Of blame, and had no wrath of God to fear."]}, {"id": "D10.8.82", "lines": ["And when at last the Shah’s compassion woke,", "I went and gave the wiser words I spoke."]}, {"id": "D10.8.83", "lines": ["I chose a learned elder to command,", "A wise, well-spoken guide to all the land."]}, {"id": "D10.8.84", "lines": ["He labored and restored the ruined part,", "And joy returned to every subject’s heart."]}, {"id": "D10.8.85", "lines": ["When one man ruled, all counsel turned to good;", "Wrong waned, and goodness flourished where he stood."]}, {"id": "D10.8.86", "lines": ["I showed them evil through a veiled display,", "Then opened up the door to God’s own way."]}, {"id": "D10.8.87", "lines": ["Speech, used where it belongs, is worth far more", "Than all the precious gems within your store."]}, {"id": "D10.8.88", "lines": ["Let wisdom be the Shah, the tongue its might,", "If you would keep your spirit calm and bright."]}, {"id": "D10.8.89", "lines": ["May joy forever fill the sovereign’s heart;", "May ruin and all crookedness depart.”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.90", "lines": ["The Shah cried, “Well done, Rozbeh! Such a mind", "Deserves a crown for wisdom of this kind.”"]}, {"id": "D10.8.91", "lines": ["He gave one purse of gold dinars to show", "The honor that such wisdom ought to know."]}, {"id": "D10.8.92", "lines": ["They fashioned him a robe of kingly thread,", "And raised toward the clouds his honored head."]}, {"id": "D10.9.1", "lines": ["A week passed by; the monarch rode to chase", "The mountain game, with all his lordly race."]}, {"id": "D10.9.2", "lines": ["With Mobadan then gathered at his side,", "A month he drank and hunted far and wide."]}, {"id": "D10.9.3", "lines": ["He reveled with his noble hunting train;", "Their catch passed measure on the hills and plain."]}, {"id": "D10.9.4", "lines": ["Rejoicing, back toward the town he turned;", "Night fell, and scarce a pathway was discerned."]}, {"id": "D10.9.5", "lines": ["The chiefs rode on together on their way,", "And spoke of Shahs as evening died away."]}, {"id": "D10.9.6", "lines": ["Bahram beheld a fire that lit the night,", "Such as a king at Bahman’s feast might light."]}, {"id": "D10.9.7", "lines": ["The king of kings peered closely at the blaze,", "And saw a village, pleasant to his gaze."]}, {"id": "D10.9.8", "lines": ["A mill stood near it, and beside the flame,", "The village chiefs sat gathered, each by name."]}, {"id": "D10.9.9", "lines": ["The maidens feasted, gathered close and fair,", "With crowns of roses set upon their hair."]}, {"id": "D10.9.10", "lines": ["The minstrels sat around; the maidens sang", "Of royal wars until the valley rang."]}, {"id": "D10.9.11", "lines": ["Each sang in turn; their voices rose and fell;", "Their moonlike faces cast a lovely spell."]}, {"id": "D10.9.12", "lines": ["Their locks were curled, their voices sweet and clear,", "And musk seemed breathing from their presence near."]}, {"id": "D10.9.13", "lines": ["They sat ranked on the grass beside the mill,", "Each with a posy, bright and singing still."]}, {"id": "D10.9.14", "lines": ["Half-flushed with wine and merriment, they cried,", "And one gave Bahram’s toast with royal pride."]}, {"id": "D10.9.15", "lines": ["She said, “To Shah Bahram, whose farr is bright,", "Whose stature, love, and mien command the sight."]}, {"id": "D10.9.16", "lines": ["Through him the wheeling heavens hold their place;", "Wine seems to trickle from his glowing face."]}, {"id": "D10.9.17", "lines": ["His black hair breathes out musk; he hunts no prey", "But lions and wild asses on his way."]}, {"id": "D10.9.18", "lines": ["Therefore the people name that monarch sure", "By his great hunting title: Bahram Goor.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.19", "lines": ["On hearing this, he rode toward that fair throng,", "And saw the moon-faced maidens ranged along."]}, {"id": "D10.9.20", "lines": ["He saw the road to town was long that night,", "And called for wine and friends to share delight."]}, {"id": "D10.9.21", "lines": ["They brought him wine and friends at his command,", "And set a crystal goblet, rich and grand."]}, {"id": "D10.9.22", "lines": ["Four maidens then, the highest of that band,", "Came forth together, walking hand in hand."]}, {"id": "D10.9.23", "lines": ["Moshknaz came, with Moshkanak beside,", "Then Naztab and Susanak in their pride."]}, {"id": "D10.9.24", "lines": ["With cheeks like spring, in stately step they drew,", "And sang the praises that to kings are due."]}, {"id": "D10.9.25", "lines": ["They praised the king of kings, the wise and great;", "Their beauty left his heart in troubled state."]}, {"id": "D10.9.26", "lines": ["He asked, “Whose daughters are you, roses bright?", "And why have you set this great fire alight?”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.27", "lines": ["One said, “O Pahlevan of cypress height,", "So like a king in bearing and in sight,"]}, {"id": "D10.9.28", "lines": ["Our father is an aged miller here,", "Who hunts for game upon the mountain near."]}, {"id": "D10.9.29", "lines": ["He will return now that the night has grown,", "For darkness makes the hunter’s path unknown.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.30", "lines": ["The miller and his men then came with game;", "His eyes fell on Bahram’s commanding frame."]}, {"id": "D10.9.31", "lines": ["He rubbed his face upon the dusty ground,", "Then stood before him, all his men around."]}, {"id": "D10.9.32", "lines": ["The Shah commanded, “Bring the old man cheer,", "And set a golden goblet for him here.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.33", "lines": ["He said, “Why keep these four with sunny face?", "Is it not time they found a marriage place?”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.34", "lines": ["The old man praised him: “We have found no groom;", "So they have lingered in their father’s room."]}, {"id": "D10.9.35", "lines": ["They still are maidens, chaste; they claim no gold,", "For virtue is the only wealth they hold."]}, {"id": "D10.9.36", "lines": ["This is all I possess and all I say;", "No dowry stands to send them on their way.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.37", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Give me these daughters four;", "Why should they wait as maidens anymore?”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.38", "lines": ["The old man said, “Do not withdraw your word;", "Let what you promised stand as I have heard."]}, {"id": "D10.9.39", "lines": ["We have no cups, no land, no crops to store,", "No silver, house, or ox or ass; no more.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.40", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “No wealth need come with them;", "I ask no goods, no coin, no precious gem.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.41", "lines": ["The miller said, “The four shall be your wives,", "And serve within your chambers all their lives."]}, {"id": "D10.9.42", "lines": ["Your eye has seen whatever good or ill", "They bear, and still approves them by your will.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.43", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “From God, who gives us all,", "I take these maidens at His gracious call.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.44", "lines": ["He spoke and rose; the steeds began to neigh,", "And all his escort stirred to move away."]}, {"id": "D10.9.45", "lines": ["He bade the eunuchs of his train to bear", "Those idols to the women’s royal care."]}, {"id": "D10.9.46", "lines": ["The troops streamed through the fields throughout the night;", "The miller stood amazed at such a sight."]}, {"id": "D10.9.47", "lines": ["He mused all night and said then to his wife,", "“What moonlike lord has entered thus our life?"]}, {"id": "D10.9.48", "lines": ["With such a stately form and princely grace,", "How did he find by night our humble place?”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.49", "lines": ["She said, “He saw the fire’s distant light,", "And heard the daughters singing in delight."]}, {"id": "D10.9.50", "lines": ["He brought us wine and minstrels for the feast,", "Drawn by the merry songs that had not ceased.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.51", "lines": ["The miller said, “Advise me, O my spouse;", "Will good or ill come to this humble house?”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.52", "lines": ["She said, “All comes from God; he saw each face,", "And did not ask about their blood or race."]}, {"id": "D10.9.53", "lines": ["He sought four moons, not wealth that rank could bring,", "Nor wished to wed the daughter of a king."]}, {"id": "D10.9.54", "lines": ["If idol-makers out in Chin saw these,", "Their idols would no longer hearts appease.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.55", "lines": ["They spoke of men of good and evil ways,", "Till sun on Raven’s back brought morning’s rays."]}, {"id": "D10.9.56", "lines": ["At dawn the village chief came hurrying near,", "And said, “Good fortune paid a visit here."]}, {"id": "D10.9.57", "lines": ["Your tree’s green branches now have borne their fruit;", "Bahram rode by here, homeward from pursuit."]}, {"id": "D10.9.58", "lines": ["He saw your fire and turned toward your gate;", "Your daughters now reside in royal state."]}, {"id": "D10.9.59", "lines": ["They rest secure as wives within his hall;", "His private chambers now receive them all."]}, {"id": "D10.9.60", "lines": ["In face and hair and carriage bright and rare,", "You raised them for the Shah’s own royal care."]}, {"id": "D10.9.61", "lines": ["Bahram is now your son-in-law; your name", "Will spread through every country with your fame."]}, {"id": "D10.9.62", "lines": ["He gives this province to you as your part;", "Let grief and fear no longer press your heart."]}, {"id": "D10.9.63", "lines": ["We all are now your subjects, yours to lead;", "Your servants, who your least command will heed."]}, {"id": "D10.9.64", "lines": ["Give your commands; each one we shall fulfill.", "We are your servants, subject to your will.”"]}, {"id": "D10.9.65", "lines": ["The miller and his wife, amazed, were stirred", "To call on God; the village khan was heard:"]}, {"id": "D10.9.66", "lines": ["“Such locks and faces, splendid in their bloom,", "Would draw the fourth-sphere sun down as a groom.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.1", "lines": ["A week passed by; he hunted once again,", "With chiefs and Mobadan and other men."]}, {"id": "D10.10.2", "lines": ["Swift as the wind, a loyal subject drew near,", "With spade in hand, his purpose plain and clear."]}, {"id": "D10.10.3", "lines": ["He asked the troops, “Where does Bahram abide?", "Where in these ranks may I approach his side?”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.4", "lines": ["A Mobad then replied, “What do you seek?", "You cannot see the Shah. State why you speak.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.5", "lines": ["The man replied, “If I may not draw near,", "I will not speak before his followers here.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.6", "lines": ["They brought that seeker to the Shah’s own sight,", "A learned man whose words were clear and bright."]}, {"id": "D10.10.7", "lines": ["He saw Bahram and said, “O king, to you", "I have some private words, both strange and true.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.8", "lines": ["Bahram Goor turned his horse’s head aside,", "And rode beyond the watching army’s tide."]}, {"id": "D10.10.9", "lines": ["The man said, “World-commanding Shah, attend;", "My words are true, and to your good they tend."]}, {"id": "D10.10.10", "lines": ["I am a countryman and landlord here;", "My soil, my homestead, and my crops are near."]}, {"id": "D10.10.11", "lines": ["I made new watercourses through my land,", "To bring more profit by my working hand."]}, {"id": "D10.10.12", "lines": ["When water gathered and the channel swelled,", "A sudden breach appeared where earth had held."]}, {"id": "D10.10.13", "lines": ["A wondrous clamor reached my startled ears;", "I cried aloud, overcome by sudden fears."]}, {"id": "D10.10.14", "lines": ["The clash of cymbals issued from the stream,", "A sound of treasure, not an empty dream.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.15", "lines": ["When Bahram heard, he went and saw the plain,", "All green with water, crops, and growing grain."]}, {"id": "D10.10.16", "lines": ["He summoned laborers with spades, to toil", "And seek the hidden riches in the soil."]}, {"id": "D10.10.17", "lines": ["He left his horse; his servants raised his tent,", "Amid green crops where winding waters went."]}, {"id": "D10.10.18", "lines": ["Night came; the warriors lit lamps everywhere,", "And kindled fires that brightened all the air."]}, {"id": "D10.10.19", "lines": ["When morning raised its banner from the deep,", "And burnished violet skies from waking sleep,"]}, {"id": "D10.10.20", "lines": ["The workmen gathered there from every side,", "Like some great army in its laboring pride."]}, {"id": "D10.10.21", "lines": ["They dug that portion of the plain away,", "Until a yawning pit before them lay."]}, {"id": "D10.10.22", "lines": ["At last, when all were weary, they exhumed", "A mass like some great mountain, long entombed."]}, {"id": "D10.10.23", "lines": ["Of mortar and of burnt brick it was made,", "Like Paradise concealed below the shade."]}, {"id": "D10.10.24", "lines": ["They struck the structure’s top with picks until", "Its doorway showed beneath that earthen hill."]}, {"id": "D10.10.25", "lines": ["The high Mobad went through the opened door,", "With one companion, seeking out the store."]}, {"id": "D10.10.26", "lines": ["They found one chamber, long and wide and high,", "A wonder hidden from the world and sky."]}, {"id": "D10.10.27", "lines": ["Two golden buffaloes bent down to drink", "Before a golden trough with jeweled brink."]}, {"id": "D10.10.28", "lines": ["The trough held green gems mingled with the red", "Of precious rubies heaped within its bed."]}, {"id": "D10.10.29", "lines": ["Those buffaloes seemed Taurus brought to earth,", "Hollow, and filled with fruit of priceless worth."]}, {"id": "D10.10.30", "lines": ["With pomegranates, apples, quince each side;", "The quinces held bright pearls like drops inside."]}, {"id": "D10.10.31", "lines": ["The buffaloes had ruby eyes that gleamed,", "Though age had touched their heads where gold still beamed."]}, {"id": "D10.10.32", "lines": ["Around them stood gold lions, proud and grand,", "With Gur-e-Khars arranged on every hand."]}, {"id": "D10.10.33", "lines": ["Some creatures had bright ruby eyes inlaid,", "And some with crystal eyes were deftly made."]}, {"id": "D10.10.34", "lines": ["There golden pheasants, peacocks too, were seen,", "With gem-bright breasts and eyes of jeweled sheen."]}, {"id": "D10.10.35", "lines": ["The minister returned to tell the king", "What wealth that hidden treasure-house would bring."]}, {"id": "D10.10.36", "lines": ["He urged the Shah, “Arise and see this store;", "A wealth of treasure lies behind that door."]}, {"id": "D10.10.37", "lines": ["A chamber full of jewels lies below,", "Whose key high heaven kept from mortal show.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.38", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “A man of might and name", "Would write upon his hoard from where it came."]}, {"id": "D10.10.39", "lines": ["Go see whose name is written on the hoard,", "And when these riches served their ancient lord.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.40", "lines": ["The high Mobad read on the beast the seal", "Of Shah Jamshid, whose name it would reveal."]}, {"id": "D10.10.41", "lines": ["“The buffalo bears Shah Jamshid’s own name;", "Its seal makes plain from whom these riches came.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.42", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “O Mobad, learned and wise,", "Whose knowledge reaches far beyond men’s eyes,"]}, {"id": "D10.10.43", "lines": ["Why should I claim as mine this ancient store,", "The treasure Jamshid gathered long before?"]}, {"id": "D10.10.44", "lines": ["If wealth is won without the sword and right,", "May kingship perish, stripped of all its might."]}, {"id": "D10.10.45", "lines": ["Bestow the whole upon the poor instead;", "May no misfortune fall upon our head."]}, {"id": "D10.10.46", "lines": ["My troops require no portion of this gold;", "Both time and earth lie open to the bold."]}, {"id": "D10.10.47", "lines": ["Yet first, as kings must, we shall count the hoard,", "Then sell the gems and give the poor reward."]}, {"id": "D10.10.48", "lines": ["Then gather widows from the fields and towns,", "And orphans marked by Fortune’s bitter frowns."]}, {"id": "D10.10.49", "lines": ["Bring impoverished men of noble name,", "Who have lost hope, estate, and former fame."]}, {"id": "D10.10.50", "lines": ["From ruined towns and thriving places, call", "The needy; count them singly, one and all."]}, {"id": "D10.10.51", "lines": ["Give them the money, goods, the treasure whole,", "To bring reward to Jamshid’s parted soul."]}, {"id": "D10.10.52", "lines": ["I still am young, sound-limbed, with strength and breath;", "Why seek the wealth of monarchs claimed by death?"]}, {"id": "D10.10.53", "lines": ["Let one tenth go to him who found this thing,", "And came to tell the secret to the king."]}, {"id": "D10.10.54", "lines": ["No man finds joy in days that lie ahead,", "Who strips the shroud and plunders royal dead."]}, {"id": "D10.10.55", "lines": ["My troops and I shall toil for what swords yield,", "And win renown through justice in the field."]}, {"id": "D10.10.56", "lines": ["From Rum and Chin I shall win fame and gain;", "Shabdiz and my sharp sword shall serve my reign."]}, {"id": "D10.10.57", "lines": ["I practice no deceit, nor turn to flight;", "My steed and sword shall serve me in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.58", "lines": ["He turned toward his own hard-gathered store,", "The wealth his sweat and toil had won before."]}, {"id": "D10.10.59", "lines": ["He gathered warriors of the realm around,", "And gave them one full year’s pay on that ground."]}, {"id": "D10.10.60", "lines": ["That spring he held a feast of splendid cheer,", "And dressed his jeweled hall with royal gear."]}, {"id": "D10.10.61", "lines": ["When red wine shone in crystal cups of light,", "And he was glad among his friends that night,"]}, {"id": "D10.10.62", "lines": ["He said, “My chiefs, you know the kings of old,", "Whose mighty thrones the tales of ages hold."]}, {"id": "D10.10.63", "lines": ["From Hushang down to famous Nohzar’s name,", "Heir to the line of Fereydoon’s great fame,"]}, {"id": "D10.10.64", "lines": ["And onward even to Kay Qobad’s renown,", "Who set upon his head the mighty crown,"]}, {"id": "D10.10.65", "lines": ["See who remains of all those mighty men,", "Or who can call their justice back again."]}, {"id": "D10.10.66", "lines": ["The circle of their years has passed away;", "Their words and reputations live today."]}, {"id": "D10.10.67", "lines": ["One had nobility; another, none;", "They praise or blame them for what they have done."]}, {"id": "D10.10.68", "lines": ["We all shall pass from earth and living breath;", "The best path shuns all evil before death."]}, {"id": "D10.10.69", "lines": ["Why should I seek the treasure handed on", "By kings who left the world and now are gone?"]}, {"id": "D10.10.70", "lines": ["I will not bind my heart to passing things,", "Nor covet wealth, nor boast the crown of kings."]}, {"id": "D10.10.71", "lines": ["If days can pass in joy, why should the wise", "Feed grief beneath the turning of the skies?"]}, {"id": "D10.10.72", "lines": ["If courtier or countryman should say", "My rule oppresses him in any way,"]}, {"id": "D10.10.73", "lines": ["May head and crown and treasure cease to be,", "If any subject suffers wrong from me.”"]}, {"id": "D10.10.74", "lines": ["An elder rose, named Mahiyar, who bore", "The weight of years: one hundred sixty-four."]}, {"id": "D10.10.75", "lines": ["He said, “O just lord, tales have reached our ears", "Of Fereydoon and Jamshid through the years,"]}, {"id": "D10.10.76", "lines": ["Of kings whose fame rose high, and some less known,", "Yet none like you has to such greatness grown."]}, {"id": "D10.10.77", "lines": ["No Shah like you, the humble people’s shield,", "Your grace of crown and greatness stands revealed."]}, {"id": "D10.10.78", "lines": ["Were all the sea as vast as is your heart,", "Its waves would rise with gems in every part."]}, {"id": "D10.10.79", "lines": ["From your pure soul Soroush’s radiance flows,", "And dims the wit the wisest sage now shows."]}, {"id": "D10.10.80", "lines": ["Such treasure you have lavished far and wide,", "That high and low have seen no match beside."]}, {"id": "D10.10.81", "lines": ["When men recalled Jamshid’s majestic age,", "Buffalo treasure filled each ancient page."]}, {"id": "D10.10.82", "lines": ["None knew if dust concealed its hidden store,", "Or dragon’s breath had veiled it evermore."]}, {"id": "D10.10.83", "lines": ["But when you found it, you disdained the prize,", "And scorned this passing world before your eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.10.84", "lines": ["So many gems no living eye could know", "Lay in the boundless waters far below."]}, {"id": "D10.10.85", "lines": ["The jewels, the buffalo, the gold; all passed", "Into the poor’s own hands, from first to last."]}, {"id": "D10.10.86", "lines": ["May crown and girdle never leave your side;", "May joy, good fortune, triumph all abide."]}, {"id": "D10.10.87", "lines": ["Ink would blacken many a royal scroll,", "Yet fail to tell the measure of the whole.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.1", "lines": ["A week passed by; Bahram rode out to chase,", "With quiver, arrows, and a clouded face."]}, {"id": "D10.11.2", "lines": ["The sun beat down and heated all the plain;", "He left the hunt and homeward turned his rein."]}, {"id": "D10.11.3", "lines": ["He took the road toward his royal seat;", "Some distance passed beneath his charger’s feet."]}, {"id": "D10.11.4", "lines": ["He reached a merchant’s house along the road,", "And saw no one about that rich abode."]}, {"id": "D10.11.5", "lines": ["He said, “Can you provide us lodging here?", "We shall not trouble you, so have no fear.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.6", "lines": ["The merchant helped the rider to descend,", "And found a place where he could rest and mend."]}, {"id": "D10.11.7", "lines": ["The Shah gave dirhams, aching as he lay,", "And named the dish he wanted right away:"]}, {"id": "D10.11.8", "lines": ["“Bring me old cheese and almonds, if you please;", "Roast them, and let my inward pain find ease.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.9", "lines": ["The merchant lacked the almonds for the dish,", "And thus could not fulfill the rider’s wish."]}, {"id": "D10.11.10", "lines": ["At nightfall he brought something else instead,", "A roasted fowl upon a tray with bread."]}, {"id": "D10.11.11", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I asked for aged cheese,", "To soothe my belly and to give me ease."]}, {"id": "D10.11.12", "lines": ["I paid you dirhams, told you of my plight,", "Yet you have brushed aside my plea outright.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.13", "lines": ["The merchant said, “You lack all self-control,", "And have no wisdom to sustain your soul."]}, {"id": "D10.11.14", "lines": ["Since I have brought this roasted fowl to you,", "For shame, demand no other dish as due.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.15", "lines": ["Bahram said no more of the cheese he sought;", "He ate, regretting he had voiced the thought."]}, {"id": "D10.11.16", "lines": ["When sleeping-time arrived, he lay to rest,", "And said no more about his first request."]}, {"id": "D10.11.17", "lines": ["At dawn, when sunlight rose from ocean’s deep,", "And pitch-dark night withdrew from earth and sleep,"]}, {"id": "D10.11.18", "lines": ["The wealthy merchant called his apprentice near,", "And spoke in anger for the youth to hear:"]}, {"id": "D10.11.19", "lines": ["“That fowl was worth no dirham! Yet you paid", "Far more than it was worth in such a trade."]}, {"id": "D10.11.20", "lines": ["Had you bought cheaply, I would not last night", "Have quarreled with this rider in such spite."]}, {"id": "D10.11.21", "lines": ["Had you bought cheese, one dang would meet the price;", "To keep him pleased, that little would suffice.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.22", "lines": ["The apprentice answered, “Let this quarrel cease;", "Charge me the fowl’s full cost, and hold your peace."]}, {"id": "D10.11.23", "lines": ["Be you and he my guests, and do not fight;", "Let no more blame be cast about last night.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.24", "lines": ["When Bahram rose from pleasant sleep at dawn,", "He sought his noble steed to journey on."]}, {"id": "D10.11.25", "lines": ["He meant to mount and ride back to his hall,", "And take his royal throne before them all."]}, {"id": "D10.11.26", "lines": ["The youth approached and said, “Be pleased to stay;", "Accept my hospitality today.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.27", "lines": ["Bahram returned, sat down again in place,", "And marveled at the turns of Fortune’s face."]}, {"id": "D10.11.28", "lines": ["The youth brought back two hundred eggs to share,", "Then told his master firmly, “Now prepare."]}, {"id": "D10.11.29", "lines": ["Roast almond kernels; set old cheese beside", "Soft bread, and let our guest be well supplied."]}, {"id": "D10.11.30", "lines": ["The Pahlevan requested this last day;", "Bring food and spread the board without delay.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.31", "lines": ["He told Bahram, “The fare you sought to find", "Shall now be served with glad and open mind."]}, {"id": "D10.11.32", "lines": ["Now what you wished for shall be brought to you,", "With other dishes, hot and tender too.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.33", "lines": ["He hastened to the market in delight,", "A generous buyer, gracious and polite."]}, {"id": "D10.11.34", "lines": ["He bought lamb, almonds, sugar, fowl, and wine,", "Musk, saffron, and rosewater, sweet and fine."]}, {"id": "D10.11.35", "lines": ["He hurried home and spread the banquet fair,", "A sprightly youth, discreet and debonair."]}, {"id": "D10.11.36", "lines": ["When they had eaten, wine was brought, and first", "He served Bahram, to slake the royal thirst."]}, {"id": "D10.11.37", "lines": ["So they proceeded, cheerful and elate,", "And drank successive cups to celebrate."]}, {"id": "D10.11.38", "lines": ["The Shah addressed the household, bright and free:", "“Bahram will ask for me; drink on with glee."]}, {"id": "D10.11.39", "lines": ["Drink deep and do not move from where you sit,", "Until the wine has robbed you of your wit.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.40", "lines": ["He groomed his steed, and set the saddle straight,", "Then led him out to stand beside the gate."]}, {"id": "D10.11.41", "lines": ["He first addressed the merchant: “Do not strain", "So hard, good merchant, in pursuit of gain."]}, {"id": "D10.11.42", "lines": ["For one small dang, you sold me yesterday,", "And cast me in a dragon’s jaws as prey."]}, {"id": "D10.11.43", "lines": ["You would have sewn your servant’s eyes up tight", "For buying fowl at more than you thought right.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.44", "lines": ["He spoke and hurried to his royal seat,", "Where crown and throne made majesty complete."]}, {"id": "D10.11.45", "lines": ["When sunlight raised its crown in heaven bright,", "The realm’s protector sat enthroned in light."]}, {"id": "D10.11.46", "lines": ["He sent his chamberlain out to escort", "The merchant and apprentice to the court."]}, {"id": "D10.11.47", "lines": ["One came rejoicing; one approached in gloom;", "Both stood before the Shah in judgment’s room."]}, {"id": "D10.11.48", "lines": ["Bahram beheld the youth and gave him a seat", "Among the lords, with honor full and meet."]}, {"id": "D10.11.49", "lines": ["They brought a purse; his dark and anxious heart", "Grew bright with joy, and grief was forced to part."]}, {"id": "D10.11.50", "lines": ["Then to the merchant Bahram said, “Attend:", "You are his slave until your life shall end."]}, {"id": "D10.11.51", "lines": ["Twice every month you shall be bound to pay", "A sum of sixty dirhams without delay."]}, {"id": "D10.11.52", "lines": ["With your own goods he shall receive the great,", "And make the hearts of noble men elate.”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.53", "lines": ["Then to the Mobad said the Shah, “Unless", "A king observes the world, he rules by guess."]}, {"id": "D10.11.54", "lines": ["How can he judge which men deserve his praise,", "Or tell the base from those of noble ways?”"]}, {"id": "D10.11.55", "lines": ["Now, prudent listener, take this truth to heart;", "If you have wisdom, learn what tales impart."]}, {"id": "D10.11.56", "lines": ["Be never miserly, if you are wise,", "Lest shame should bring you low in others’ eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.12.1", "lines": ["Bahram abode a season with his lords,", "With wine and cups and minstrels’ sounding chords."]}, {"id": "D10.12.2", "lines": ["Spring came; the earth was Paradise remade,", "And tulips blazed in every sunlit glade."]}, {"id": "D10.12.3", "lines": ["All tracts grew full of game beneath the sky,", "While brooks like wine and milk went running by."]}, {"id": "D10.12.4", "lines": ["The deer and Gur-e-Khars paced through the dales,", "Or clustered where green sward adorned the vales."]}, {"id": "D10.12.5", "lines": ["The streams breathed musk; the wine in vats glowed red,", "Like pomegranate blossoms newly spread."]}, {"id": "D10.12.6", "lines": ["The nobles said, “O king of royal star,", "We long to hunt the famous Gur-e-Khar.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.7", "lines": ["He answered, “Choose a thousand from the ranks,", "The keenest horsemen from the royal flanks."]}, {"id": "D10.12.8", "lines": ["Bring cheetahs, hawks, and falcons to the field,", "And noble peregrines that game may yield."]}, {"id": "D10.12.9", "lines": ["We go to Tur to spend a month in chase,", "And take our pleasure through that scented place.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.10", "lines": ["The royal hunter rode; the fertile earth", "In spring’s bright splendor found a glad rebirth."]}, {"id": "D10.12.11", "lines": ["His gallant chiefs swept plain and mountain wide,", "For Gur-e-Khar and sheep on every side."]}, {"id": "D10.12.12", "lines": ["For two long days they scoured the country round,", "While Bahram’s wine-cup cheered the hunting-ground."]}, {"id": "D10.12.13", "lines": ["The third day, Sol lit up his golden crown,", "And poured bright splendor on the hilltops down."]}, {"id": "D10.12.14", "lines": ["The earth grew gold, and stream and upland white,", "As though of ivory beneath the light."]}, {"id": "D10.12.15", "lines": ["The valiant Shah went hunting and then saw", "A dragon like a lion, dark and raw."]}, {"id": "D10.12.16", "lines": ["Long hair from its head trailed upon the ground;", "Its woman-like breasts swelled, immense and round."]}, {"id": "D10.12.17", "lines": ["Bahram Goor drew his bow with practiced art,", "And struck its breast with his first poplar dart."]}, {"id": "D10.12.18", "lines": ["He shot another straight against its head,", "And venom mingled with the blood it shed."]}, {"id": "D10.12.19", "lines": ["The king dismounted, drew his khanjar bright,", "And carved the dragon’s breast before their sight."]}, {"id": "D10.12.20", "lines": ["Within it lay a youth the beast had slain,", "Frozen in blood and venom’s livid stain."]}, {"id": "D10.12.21", "lines": ["He mourned the youth; his eyes grew dark and dim,", "For now the dragon’s venom worked on him."]}, {"id": "D10.12.22", "lines": ["Then dizzy, pained, and longing hard for sleep,", "He rode in search of water cool and deep."]}, {"id": "D10.12.23", "lines": ["He reached a settlement beside the plain,", "And came to one poor house in thirst and pain."]}, {"id": "D10.12.24", "lines": ["Her pitcher on her shoulder, near the place", "A woman stood; from him she veiled her face."]}, {"id": "D10.12.25", "lines": ["“May I lodge here, or must I seek the road?”", "She said, “Brave horseman, share my poor abode.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.26", "lines": ["On hearing this, he rode his courser in;", "She called her husband from the house within."]}, {"id": "D10.12.27", "lines": ["“Bring straw,” she said, “and groom his noble steed;", "Then give it barley suited to its need.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.28", "lines": ["She swept the room and laid a mat for rest,", "Then set a pillow out before her guest."]}, {"id": "D10.12.29", "lines": ["With blessings on Bahram, she went away,", "And brought fresh water back without delay."]}, {"id": "D10.12.30", "lines": ["She scolded then her husband with a sigh:", "“That fool will never stir, however I try."]}, {"id": "D10.12.31", "lines": ["He sees a guest within this humble place,", "Yet will not move or show a decent face."]}, {"id": "D10.12.32", "lines": ["This is no woman’s work, yet I must bear", "A soldier’s burden through my household care.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.33", "lines": ["Bahram went forth and bathed his weary brow,", "Still spent from dragon-strife and hunt till now."]}, {"id": "D10.12.34", "lines": ["She brought the board with vinegar and bread,", "With salad, curds, and all the house could spread."]}, {"id": "D10.12.35", "lines": ["He ate a little, then lay down to rest,", "His face beneath a Chinese kerchief pressed."]}, {"id": "D10.12.36", "lines": ["The woman, waking, spoke then to her spouse:", "“O filthy knave, who slouches through the house,"]}, {"id": "D10.12.37", "lines": ["You should have slaughtered one young lamb today,", "For this great Pahlevan who came our way."]}, {"id": "D10.12.38", "lines": ["He has the royal seed and kingly grace,", "And moonlike splendor shining from his face."]}, {"id": "D10.12.39", "lines": ["He seems Shah Bahram in his face and frame;", "How can you treat so great a guest with shame?”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.40", "lines": ["Her mean spouse answered, “Why all this ado?", "No salted meat or firewood waits for you."]}, {"id": "D10.12.41", "lines": ["You bake no bread, nor spin wool through the night,", "As other women labor by lamplight."]}, {"id": "D10.12.42", "lines": ["You kill a lamb; he eats and rides away;", "What gain will come of all you spend today?"]}, {"id": "D10.12.43", "lines": ["The winter cold and blast will come to you;", "That hardship will not spare you, coming due.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.44", "lines": ["So spoke her spouse; she would not heed his word,", "For she was wise, and generosity stirred."]}, {"id": "D10.12.45", "lines": ["At last a lamb was slaughtered for their guest,", "To meet the generous woman’s firm request."]}, {"id": "D10.12.46", "lines": ["She cooked a pot of broth above the heat,", "With half-dried wood to make the meal complete."]}, {"id": "D10.12.47", "lines": ["She brought a tray with eggs and watercress,", "A roasted leg, the best she could possess."]}, {"id": "D10.12.48", "lines": ["Bahram, when washed and done with what they gave,", "Still ailed, and found no sleep his strength to save."]}, {"id": "D10.12.49", "lines": ["At night she brought a gourd of wine; nearby", "She laid a dish of senjed, sweet and dry."]}, {"id": "D10.12.50", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Woman, measured in your word,", "Tell me an ancient tale that you have heard."]}, {"id": "D10.12.51", "lines": ["While you recite, I drink to ease my pain,", "And drive my cares away from heart and brain."]}, {"id": "D10.12.52", "lines": ["I give you freedom now to speak of kings,", "Of Shah Bahram, the praise or blame he brings.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.53", "lines": ["The woman answered, “Yes, all things depend", "Upon him, from their outset to their end.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.54", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “So great you hold his fame,", "Yet none has found his justice worth the name.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.55", "lines": ["That spirited dame said, “Honest man, give ear;", "This district’s homes and folk are countless here."]}, {"id": "D10.12.56", "lines": ["Here many dwellings stand; and through the town", "Ride many noble horsemen of renown."]}, {"id": "D10.12.57", "lines": ["Ministers, officers go passing by,", "And poor folk fear each careless lordly eye."]}, {"id": "D10.12.58", "lines": ["If one should call a man a thief by name,", "The man accused then burns in trouble’s flame."]}, {"id": "D10.12.59", "lines": ["A horseman, just to gather coins in hand,", "Could make a poor man wretched in the land."]}, {"id": "D10.12.60", "lines": ["Or he might smirch some honest woman’s fame,", "And drive her toward ruin, folly, shame."]}, {"id": "D10.12.61", "lines": ["This yields the royal treasury no worth;", "It only presses down the poor of earth."]}, {"id": "D10.12.62", "lines": ["This is our trouble under Bahram’s reign,", "And this has filled our lives with loss and pain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.63", "lines": ["The king grew thoughtful, hearing her account,", "How blame against his royal name could mount."]}, {"id": "D10.12.64", "lines": ["He thought, “No one gives justice proper praise;", "I shall play tyrant for a span of days."]}, {"id": "D10.12.65", "lines": ["Thus love and justice may be manifest,", "When men have seen how tyranny brings unrest.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.66", "lines": ["He slept, tormented by such thoughts that night,", "His heart had turned from justice and the right."]}, {"id": "D10.12.67", "lines": ["When Sol tore through its musk-scented veil,", "And showed its face above the eastern vale,"]}, {"id": "D10.12.68", "lines": ["The woman said, “Bring fire and pot; then pour", "In water, with the gleanings of our floor."]}, {"id": "D10.12.69", "lines": ["Keep them from sunlight; watch the pot’s slow boil,", "While I go milk the cow, my morning toil.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.70", "lines": ["She brought the cow in from the pasture wide,", "And set fresh fodder down and stood beside."]}, {"id": "D10.12.71", "lines": ["She tried the udder, crying, “In God’s name,", "Who has no peer, no mate, no equal claim!”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.72", "lines": ["She found the udder milkless, dry, and bare;", "Her young heart aged beneath that sudden care."]}, {"id": "D10.12.73", "lines": ["She told her husband, “Good man, hear my fear:", "The monarch’s heart has changed; the signs are clear."]}, {"id": "D10.12.74", "lines": ["The monarch’s heart is now a tyrant’s; see", "What secret change has touched the world and me.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.75", "lines": ["He asked, “What makes you weep and raise this cry?”", "She said, “These signs before me cannot lie."]}, {"id": "D10.12.76", "lines": ["When Shahs turn unjust beneath the sky,", "The moon in heaven dims its silver eye."]}, {"id": "D10.12.77", "lines": ["Milk dries, and musk no longer scents the air;", "Adultery and usury lie bare."]}, {"id": "D10.12.78", "lines": ["The tender heart grows flint, and wolves devour", "The men who cross the plain in evil hour."]}, {"id": "D10.12.79", "lines": ["The sage will flee the fool, and eggs lie dead", "Beneath the hens from which they should be bred."]}, {"id": "D10.12.80", "lines": ["So when the Shah grows tyrannous in heart,", "All earth and heaven from their order part."]}, {"id": "D10.12.81", "lines": ["This cow’s good pasture has not grown less green,", "Her watering-place remains as fresh and clean."]}, {"id": "D10.12.82", "lines": ["Yet now her udder fails, her lowing pained;", "The royal heart by injustice has been stained.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.83", "lines": ["On hearing this, the Shah repented then,", "And prayed to God, the righteous Judge of men:"]}, {"id": "D10.12.84", "lines": ["“O You supreme, Almighty over fate,", "Whose judgment opens Fortune’s every gate,"]}, {"id": "D10.12.85", "lines": ["If ever my heart turns away from right,", "Let kingly throne no longer bless my sight.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.86", "lines": ["That blessed dame, whose faith was firm and good,", "Once more tried milking her cow as she should."]}, {"id": "D10.12.87", "lines": ["In God’s own name she touched the teat, and prayed:", "“Let flow the milk that in the udder stayed.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.88", "lines": ["The milk flowed forth; the good wife cried in joy,", "“O God, whose works no mortal can destroy,"]}, {"id": "D10.12.89", "lines": ["You have recalled the monarch from his wrong,", "And made his love of justice firm and strong.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.90", "lines": ["She turned then to her husband where he stood:", "“The king’s lost justice has come back for good."]}, {"id": "D10.12.91", "lines": ["Rejoice and laugh; this is the Maker’s boon", "To us beneath the sun and fading moon.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.92", "lines": ["When milk porridge was cooked and chores were done,", "The good dame filled the tray at rise of sun."]}, {"id": "D10.12.93", "lines": ["Her husband hurried with the laden tray,", "And set it where the guest reclining lay."]}, {"id": "D10.12.94", "lines": ["Upon the tray milk porridge had been laid;", "How good if zirba had instead been made!"]}, {"id": "D10.12.95", "lines": ["The Shah ate somewhat, then spoke to the dame:", "“Take out this whip and hang it in my name."]}, {"id": "D10.12.96", "lines": ["Go, choose a branch beside the public road,", "Where passing winds will spare the royal goad."]}, {"id": "D10.12.97", "lines": ["Then keep your eye upon the whip and way,", "And mark what passing troops will do or say.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.98", "lines": ["The goodman hung it where the road ran free;", "Soon troops came riding past that wayside tree."]}, {"id": "D10.12.99", "lines": ["All those who saw it blessed Bahram’s renown,", "And offered praise to him who wore the crown."]}, {"id": "D10.12.100", "lines": ["Before the long whip, all dismounted then,", "And bowed before the Shah, both chiefs and men."]}, {"id": "D10.12.101", "lines": ["Both armies cried, “No seat except a throne", "Could fit that face or claim it as its own.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.102", "lines": ["Then filled with shame, they hastened to his side,", "With no excuse by which their fault to hide,"]}, {"id": "D10.12.103", "lines": ["And cried, “O Shah, O ruler wise and great,", "Whose justice guards the crown and royal state!”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.104", "lines": ["The gardener and his wife, in wonder dazed,", "Before his majesty their voices raised:"]}, {"id": "D10.12.105", "lines": ["“Forgive our simple meal and humble cheer;", "We did not know the king of kings was here!"]}, {"id": "D10.12.106", "lines": ["We never guessed the Shah, so high and pure,", "Would enter as a guest among the poor.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.107", "lines": ["“Good man, this frontier march is yours,” he said;", "“This land and village shall be yours instead."]}, {"id": "D10.12.108", "lines": ["Keep open house to all who seek your gate;", "Leave garden work and live in honored state.”"]}, {"id": "D10.12.109", "lines": ["He laughed and mounted, bound for court and throne,", "And soon his jeweled halls before him shone."]}, {"id": "D10.12.110", "lines": ["The third day, with his troops, the Shah took horse", "And rode to hunt, along his former course."]}, {"id": "D10.12.111", "lines": ["Three hundred nobles came from Iran’s court,", "To join the chase and share the royal sport."]}, {"id": "D10.12.112", "lines": ["Each brought full thirty servants in his train,", "From Turkish lands, from Rum, Iran’s domain."]}, {"id": "D10.13.1", "lines": ["Three hundred servants from the royal hall", "Rode out with hunting gear at Bahram’s call."]}, {"id": "D10.13.2", "lines": ["Ten camels bore fine housings of brocade,", "With silver stirrups richly overlaid."]}, {"id": "D10.13.3", "lines": ["Their panniers shone with gold upon the plain,", "As all the hunting splendor formed his train."]}, {"id": "D10.13.4", "lines": ["Ten camels bore the Shah’s own seat of state,", "Brocade adorned the throne of one so great."]}, {"id": "D10.13.5", "lines": ["Before them seven elephants progressed,", "The turquoise throne upon their backs at rest."]}, {"id": "D10.13.6", "lines": ["Its feet were gold and crystal, bright and pure,", "The throne itself of mighty Bahram Goor."]}, {"id": "D10.13.7", "lines": ["Each swordsman’s thirty handsome pages rode", "With golden belts; their steeds’ gold trappings glowed."]}, {"id": "D10.13.8", "lines": ["A hundred camels carried minstrels crowned,", "Whose jeweled coronets flashed all around."]}, {"id": "D10.13.9", "lines": ["The falconers had eight score hawks in line,", "Two hundred other falcons, proud and fine."]}, {"id": "D10.13.10", "lines": ["Among them flew one bird of sable hue,", "More prized by Bahram than the rest he knew."]}, {"id": "D10.13.11", "lines": ["Its talons black, its beak a yellow flame,", "Like gold on lapis when the morning came."]}, {"id": "D10.13.12", "lines": ["They called that bird Toghri; its eyes were red,", "Like goblets full of blood within its head."]}, {"id": "D10.13.13", "lines": ["The Khan of Chin had sent that bird of grace,", "With throne and crown, where garnets found their place."]}, {"id": "D10.13.14", "lines": ["A golden torque with emeralds he sent,", "And forty bracelets for the Shah’s content."]}, {"id": "D10.13.15", "lines": ["And six and thirty earrings, finely wrought,", "Were numbered with the treasures that he brought."]}, {"id": "D10.13.16", "lines": ["Three hundred camel-loads from Chin came too,", "Three hundred rubies, fit for royal view."]}, {"id": "D10.13.17", "lines": ["Behind the falconers, cheetahs came in pride,", "Eight score in golden chains on every side."]}, {"id": "D10.13.18", "lines": ["They wore bright jeweled torques of royal gold,", "As Bahram crossed the plain in splendor bold."]}, {"id": "D10.13.19", "lines": ["Thus came the king of kings in bright array,", "His crown above great Jupiter that day."]}, {"id": "D10.13.20", "lines": ["The sportsmen made their way toward the sea,", "Where every seventh year the Shah would be."]}, {"id": "D10.13.21", "lines": ["When they drew near, fowl swarmed by bank and shoal;", "The tabors thundered with a mighty roll."]}, {"id": "D10.13.22", "lines": ["The falcon flew, impatient for the prey,", "And chased a crane that crossed its soaring way."]}, {"id": "D10.13.23", "lines": ["The crane was helpless as the raptor rolled;", "It struck just like a leopard, fierce and bold."]}, {"id": "D10.13.24", "lines": ["It seized its quarry, climbed the clouds anew,", "Then vanished like an arrow from their view."]}, {"id": "D10.13.25", "lines": ["The falconer pursued it with great care;", "The Shah grew vexed to lose that bird so rare."]}, {"id": "D10.13.26", "lines": ["He followed where its golden bells rang clear,", "Until a pleasure-ground at last drew near."]}, {"id": "D10.13.27", "lines": ["A mansion in the garden’s corner rose;", "The Shah rode in, his search now near its close."]}, {"id": "D10.13.28", "lines": ["The army stayed to hunt upon the plain;", "A few rode with the monarch from his train."]}, {"id": "D10.13.29", "lines": ["On entering, Bahram saw a garden wide,", "A steep slope rising by the garden’s side."]}, {"id": "D10.13.30", "lines": ["Brocade was spread across the garden ground,", "And slaves and wealth were gathered all around."]}, {"id": "D10.13.31", "lines": ["Amid the garden lay a pool of blue;", "Beside it sat an aged lord in view."]}, {"id": "D10.13.32", "lines": ["Three girls like ivory beside him shone,", "Each wearing turquoise crowns as bright as stone."]}, {"id": "D10.13.33", "lines": ["Their cheeks were spring, their statures tall and fair,", "Their brows were bows; like kamand fell their hair."]}, {"id": "D10.13.34", "lines": ["Each held a crystal goblet, bright and clear;", "Bahram looked upon the maidens gathered near."]}, {"id": "D10.13.35", "lines": ["His eyes were dazzled by that radiant sight,", "Though grief for Toghri dimmed his heart’s delight."]}, {"id": "D10.13.36", "lines": ["The wealthy noble saw him, pale with dread,", "Like fenugreek when all its green has fled."]}, {"id": "D10.13.37", "lines": ["A wise old man was he, Barzin by name,", "Whose heart grew troubled when the monarch came."]}, {"id": "D10.13.38", "lines": ["As swift as wind he left the pool to greet", "The Shah, and kissed the ground before his feet."]}, {"id": "D10.13.39", "lines": ["He said, “O monarch of the sun-bright brow,", "May heaven bend to serve your every vow."]}, {"id": "D10.13.40", "lines": ["I dare not ask the Shah to linger here,", "With two hundred horsemen in his train drawn near."]}, {"id": "D10.13.41", "lines": ["Yet if the Shah takes pleasure in my land,", "Barzin’s own glory rises at your hand.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.42", "lines": ["The world’s king said, “Today my Toghri fled,", "And vexing care about that bird has spread."]}, {"id": "D10.13.43", "lines": ["My heart grew troubled when it flew away;", "I chased its ringing bells without delay.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.44", "lines": ["Barzin replied, “I saw a sable bird,", "With golden bells, whose ringing I had heard."]}, {"id": "D10.13.45", "lines": ["Its body pitch-dark, beak and talons bright", "As gold, it perched upon a walnut’s height."]}, {"id": "D10.13.46", "lines": ["Through your good fortune, it has come to hand.”", "The Shah then gave a servant his command."]}, {"id": "D10.13.47", "lines": ["“Go look,” he said. Like wind, the servant sped,", "Then cried, “Good fortune crowns the royal head."]}, {"id": "D10.13.48", "lines": ["The Toghri perches on a walnut bough;", "The keeper climbs to bring him downward now!”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.49", "lines": ["The bird thus found, the old man praised and cried:", "“O king not matched by all the world beside;"]}, {"id": "D10.13.50", "lines": ["May this arrival bring good fortune here,", "And crowned men serve you through each passing year."]}, {"id": "D10.13.51", "lines": ["Call for a wine-cup in this present hour,", "Then ask what pleasures lie within my power.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.52", "lines": ["The king of kings dismounted at the pool,", "And old Barzin grew glad beneath his rule."]}, {"id": "D10.13.53", "lines": ["Then came the chief vizier, and at his heels", "The keepers of the treasure and its seals."]}, {"id": "D10.13.54", "lines": ["Barzin brought forth red wine, a cup in hand,", "And drank first to the ruler of the land."]}, {"id": "D10.13.55", "lines": ["Then he brought forth a crystal cup of wine;", "The Shah received it, joyful and benign."]}, {"id": "D10.13.56", "lines": ["He drank beyond the measure marked around,", "While glad Barzin set wine-jars on the ground."]}, {"id": "D10.13.57", "lines": ["Now drunk, he told his daughters, “Hear me, all:", "No common chief has entered through our wall."]}, {"id": "D10.13.58", "lines": ["Shah Bahram has adorned this garden bright;", "Now bring your harps and songs for his delight.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.59", "lines": ["All three drew near the Shah with crowns ablaze,", "Their jeweled brows a marvel to the gaze."]}, {"id": "D10.13.60", "lines": ["One danced, one played upon the harp with art,", "The third sang sweetly to delight his heart."]}, {"id": "D10.13.61", "lines": ["While they made music, filling him with cheer,", "The king drained every cup they offered near."]}, {"id": "D10.13.62", "lines": ["He turned to old Barzin: “Who are these three,", "That feast beside you, fair as moons to see?”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.63", "lines": ["Barzin replied, “O Shah, may no age be", "Without your light, which blesses land and sea."]}, {"id": "D10.13.64", "lines": ["These are my daughters and my heart’s delight,", "Three moons that fill this garden with their light."]}, {"id": "D10.13.65", "lines": ["One is a singer; one the harp can sound;", "The third, a dancer, treads the measured round."]}, {"id": "D10.13.66", "lines": ["I lack no riches, Shah; enough is mine:", "Domains, this garden, stores of grain and vine."]}, {"id": "D10.13.67", "lines": ["My daughters bloom like gardens in the spring;", "O moon-faced singer, praise the world’s great king.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.68", "lines": ["The singer then took heart to sing and play,", "And poured her song before the Shah that day:"]}, {"id": "D10.13.69", "lines": ["“O moon-faced king, you seem the moon on high;", "Your joyful throne is worthy of the sky."]}, {"id": "D10.13.70", "lines": ["The royal throne alone should be your seat,", "You whose bright face makes kingly grace complete."]}, {"id": "D10.13.71", "lines": ["Your cypress stature is the crown’s delight;", "The golden throne grows lustrous in your sight."]}, {"id": "D10.13.72", "lines": ["Blessed are those who see your face at day’s", "First light, and breathe the musk your hair conveys."]}, {"id": "D10.13.73", "lines": ["Your waist is tiger-slim, your arms have might,", "Your crown’s high farr outsoars the clouds in flight."]}, {"id": "D10.13.74", "lines": ["Your cheek is like pomegranate bloom in flower;", "Hearts laugh for love of you in every hour."]}, {"id": "D10.13.75", "lines": ["Your heart is like the sea, both broad and deep;", "Its bounty knows no bounds that men can keep."]}, {"id": "D10.13.76", "lines": ["Your hand is like a cloud with gifts outspread;", "The leopard and the lion fall down dead."]}, {"id": "D10.13.77", "lines": ["You split a hair in two with shaft and bow;", "Your justice makes the lion melt and flow."]}, {"id": "D10.13.78", "lines": ["When hostile armies see your kamand cast,", "Their hearts and brains are rent and overcast."]}, {"id": "D10.13.79", "lines": ["However mighty is their battle line,", "Your arm breaks all their strength by royal sign.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.80", "lines": ["Bahram Goor heard the song and drained his cup,", "Then turned to old Barzin with mind made up."]}, {"id": "D10.13.81", "lines": ["He said, “O noble, schooled in heat and cold,", "Who knows the world from youth to age grown old,"]}, {"id": "D10.13.82", "lines": ["You will not find a better son-in-law", "Than me, a hero-king beneath God’s law."]}, {"id": "D10.13.83", "lines": ["Bestow all three upon me as my brides;", "I will exalt your crown where Saturn rides.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.84", "lines": ["Barzin replied, “O king, may cup and wine", "Forever in your royal presence shine."]}, {"id": "D10.13.85", "lines": ["Who in the world would dare so much to ask,", "Or find the heart to set himself that task?"]}, {"id": "D10.13.86", "lines": ["If you accept me as your slave today,", "I will attend your throne in every way."]}, {"id": "D10.13.87", "lines": ["Then I will offer service to your crown,", "Your throne, your farr, your fortune, and renown."]}, {"id": "D10.13.88", "lines": ["Moreover, my three daughters are your maids,", "Your handmaids where the royal curtain shades."]}, {"id": "D10.13.89", "lines": ["The Shah has looked on them and finds them meet;", "Their moonlike beauty makes his court complete."]}, {"id": "D10.13.90", "lines": ["As teaks in stature, ivory in hue,", "They fit the crown and throne, both fair and true."]}, {"id": "D10.13.91", "lines": ["Now, if the monarch wishes to be told,", "I will declare what wealth my vaults now hold."]}, {"id": "D10.13.92", "lines": ["Clothes, carpets, stuffs, and draperies remain,", "Enough to load a long and laden train."]}, {"id": "D10.13.93", "lines": ["Two hundred camel-loads, or more, I own,", "With crowns and bracelets, torques, and royal throne."]}, {"id": "D10.13.94", "lines": ["All necklaces and ornaments I save", "For these my daughters and the joy they crave.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.95", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Let all that wealth remain;", "Come, drink your wine, and free your heart of pain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.96", "lines": ["The elder said, “These daughters, moon-faced, bright,", "I give by ancient rites, as is your right."]}, {"id": "D10.13.97", "lines": ["By Kioumars and Hushang’s holy way,", "They are but dust beneath your feet today."]}, {"id": "D10.13.98", "lines": ["All three now live to carry out your will,", "And serve your throne with loyal purpose still.”"]}, {"id": "D10.13.99", "lines": ["The eldest daughter’s name was Mah Afrid;", "The second, Faranak, slim as a reed."]}, {"id": "D10.13.100", "lines": ["The youngest maid was lovely Shanbalid;", "To wed all three the joyful Shah agreed."]}, {"id": "D10.13.101", "lines": ["He bade his escort form the bridal show,", "With four gold litters gleaming in a row."]}, {"id": "D10.13.102", "lines": ["When all three idols had been set inside,", "Then sixty Roman servants came beside."]}, {"id": "D10.13.103", "lines": ["They circled round the maidens on their way,", "And chanted blessings as they moved away."]}, {"id": "D10.13.104", "lines": ["As they departed toward the royal dome,", "The glorious Shah drank where the wine cups foam."]}, {"id": "D10.13.105", "lines": ["A servant hung his whip above the gate,", "A sign that showed his followers where to wait."]}, {"id": "D10.13.106", "lines": ["For none could know where Shah and courtiers stayed,", "Save by the whip’s long thong and handle laid."]}, {"id": "D10.13.107", "lines": ["Whoever saw that sign would hasten down,", "And bow before the token of the crown."]}, {"id": "D10.13.108", "lines": ["Bahram grew drunk as cup on cup was poured;", "A royal litter bore away its lord."]}, {"id": "D10.13.109", "lines": ["Back in his golden women’s house, he breathed", "The amber scent with which its rooms were wreathed."]}, {"id": "D10.13.110", "lines": ["After returning, he remained one week,", "In feast and gifts and all the joys men seek."]}, {"id": "D10.13.111", "lines": ["The eighth day out he rode with Rozbeh’s band,", "A thousand mighty horsemen at his command."]}, {"id": "D10.13.112", "lines": ["He saw the plain with Gur-e-Khar alive,", "And took his bow, prepared his shaft to drive."]}, {"id": "D10.13.113", "lines": ["To God, who grants all victory, he prayed,", "Then watched the springtime herds across the glade."]}, {"id": "D10.13.114", "lines": ["Spring stirred the Gur-e-Khar to pair and vie;", "From every quarter herds came crowding by."]}, {"id": "D10.13.115", "lines": ["They met head-on and tore each other’s skin;", "The earth grew red beneath their savage din."]}, {"id": "D10.13.116", "lines": ["Bahram stood watching two fierce bucks contend,", "Until the stronger brought the fight to an end."]}, {"id": "D10.13.117", "lines": ["When that bold victor mounted on the doe,", "Bahram laughed to watch the pair below."]}, {"id": "D10.13.118", "lines": ["He held his war-bow ready for attack,", "And sent a shaft into the male’s broad back."]}, {"id": "D10.13.119", "lines": ["The driving shaft transfixed the pair outright,", "And buried head and feathers in its flight."]}, {"id": "D10.13.120", "lines": ["His escort marveled; all who saw it cried,", "And blessed the Shah, their praises multiplied:"]}, {"id": "D10.13.121", "lines": ["“May every evil eye be far from you;", "May all your days be filled with pleasure too."]}, {"id": "D10.13.122", "lines": ["In valor you are new beneath the sun;", "Such kingly might and courage meet in one."]}, {"id": "D10.13.123", "lines": ["Both Shah and champion, sovereign in your might,", "You stand before us in your royal right.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.1", "lines": ["The Shah urged Shabdiz onward through the plain,", "And came upon a forest’s green domain."]}, {"id": "D10.14.2", "lines": ["Before the wood two savage lions stood;", "He strung his bow and faced them where he could."]}, {"id": "D10.14.3", "lines": ["His arrow tore the lion’s breast and found", "Its way, both point and feathers, to the ground."]}, {"id": "D10.14.4", "lines": ["Then Bahram turned his bow, devoid of fear,", "And shot the lioness, his skill made clear."]}, {"id": "D10.14.5", "lines": ["He pinned her breast and loins with one clean blow,", "Then laughed and spoke in scorn above the foe:"]}, {"id": "D10.14.6", "lines": ["“That shaft lacked feathers, and its point was worn;", "Yet through the lioness its path was borne.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.7", "lines": ["His escort praised him: “Famous king of earth,", "No throne has seen a Shah of equal worth."]}, {"id": "D10.14.8", "lines": ["With featherless shafts you lions overthrow;", "The roots of flinty mountains too would go.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.9", "lines": ["The monarch rode in splendor through the land,", "And saw great flocks across a meadow stand."]}, {"id": "D10.14.10", "lines": ["He saw the shepherds fleeing in their fright,", "Afraid of beasts that haunted that green site."]}, {"id": "D10.14.11", "lines": ["The chief herdsman, long plagued by beasts and fear,", "Perceived Bahram as he was drawing near."]}, {"id": "D10.14.12", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Who has driven sheep to graze", "In such unlikely woods and dangerous ways?”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.13", "lines": ["The herdsman answered, “Sir, none walks this track", "Save me, who guards these flocks from beasts’ attack."]}, {"id": "D10.14.14", "lines": ["They are a jeweler’s sheep, whose wealth is known;", "I drove them yesterday from slopes of stone."]}, {"id": "D10.14.15", "lines": ["The owner fears the beasts despite his hoard;", "He has gem-loads and silver richly stored."]}, {"id": "D10.14.16", "lines": ["He owns gold, trinkets, wealth of every kind,", "And peace because the Shah is just in mind."]}, {"id": "D10.14.17", "lines": ["He has one daughter, skillful on the harp,", "With raven curls and wit both keen and sharp."]}, {"id": "D10.14.18", "lines": ["From her own hand alone he takes his wine;", "No richer elder in this land can shine."]}, {"id": "D10.14.19", "lines": ["How could he keep such hoards, and rest secure,", "But that Bahram’s just reign the land keeps pure?"]}, {"id": "D10.14.20", "lines": ["The king of kings is not concerned for gold;", "His Mobadan are not unjust or cold."]}, {"id": "D10.14.21", "lines": ["But tell me who has slain these beasts today;", "May God uphold the hand that cleared the way.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.22", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “A hunter brought them low,", "A man whose arrows never miss their foe."]}, {"id": "D10.14.23", "lines": ["He slew those gallant beasts and rode away,", "With seven brave riders in his bright array."]}, {"id": "D10.14.24", "lines": ["Where is the jeweler’s mansion? Show the road,", "And hide from us no path to his abode.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.25", "lines": ["The chief herdsman said, “Proceed; beyond this ground", "A thriving village, newly built, is found."]}, {"id": "D10.14.26", "lines": ["Its sounds reach to the city, borne along", "Near Bahram’s palace in a tide of song."]}, {"id": "D10.14.27", "lines": ["But when the sky puts on its dark attire,", "He comes to feast, with music to inspire."]}, {"id": "D10.14.28", "lines": ["Remain, and you will hear the lyre’s sound,", "And revelry will fill the mansion round.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.29", "lines": ["Bahram then called for garments fit to wear,", "For royal raiment and his charger fair."]}, {"id": "D10.14.30", "lines": ["He parted from his minister and train,", "And eager rode alone across the plain."]}, {"id": "D10.14.31", "lines": ["Rozbeh said to the chiefs, “Mark where he rides:", "He seeks the village where his purpose hides."]}, {"id": "D10.14.32", "lines": ["He means to knock and lift the jeweler’s latch,", "And ask the daughter’s hand, a royal match."]}, {"id": "D10.14.33", "lines": ["He doubtless crowns her with a crown of gold,", "And takes her where his women are enrolled."]}, {"id": "D10.14.34", "lines": ["He will send Barzin’s other three away,", "And let this newest moon command the day."]}, {"id": "D10.14.35", "lines": ["He never has enough of love’s delight;", "His partner flees from him in deepest night."]}, {"id": "D10.14.36", "lines": ["He has above a hundred ladies’ bowers,", "And spends among them all his royal hours."]}, {"id": "D10.14.37", "lines": ["A king of kings should not be ruled by this;", "His pleasure overwhelms his sober bliss."]}, {"id": "D10.14.38", "lines": ["A eunuch counted in the palace halls", "One hundred thirty damsels behind walls."]}, {"id": "D10.14.39", "lines": ["Each wore a jeweled crown; each, richly dressed,", "Had maids to serve her at her least behest."]}, {"id": "D10.14.40", "lines": ["The Shah demands his tribute far and wide;", "One month consumes the tribute Rum supplied."]}, {"id": "D10.14.41", "lines": ["Alas for shoulders, breast, and height like his,", "A face that lights the court where glory is."]}, {"id": "D10.14.42", "lines": ["None will behold his like in strength or frame,", "Or in the splendor gathered round his name."]}, {"id": "D10.14.43", "lines": ["He pins two Gur-e-Khars with one clean throw,", "Yet lust will drain the strength such feats bestow."]}, {"id": "D10.14.44", "lines": ["Too much with women mars the strongest man;", "He soon will pale and weaken in his span."]}, {"id": "D10.14.45", "lines": ["His eyes grow dim, his cheeks lose all their red;", "His lips turn lapis-blue, his strength has fled."]}, {"id": "D10.14.46", "lines": ["The scent of women whitens youthful hair;", "With whitened hair, few hopes on earth are fair."]}, {"id": "D10.14.47", "lines": ["The young man’s upright back grows bent and bowed;", "Through lust, afflictions gather in a crowd."]}, {"id": "D10.14.48", "lines": ["Once in a month should satisfy desire;", "More drains the blood and dims the body’s fire."]}, {"id": "D10.14.49", "lines": ["A prudent youth should husband strength and seed,", "For children’s sake and future household need."]}, {"id": "D10.14.50", "lines": ["In such excess lie weariness and loss,", "And feebleness that turns life’s gold to dross.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.51", "lines": ["They turned back to the palace, speaking still;", "One said, “The sun has passed beyond the hill.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.52", "lines": ["Bahram, with one slave to mind his steed,", "Rode through the dark toward his hidden need."]}, {"id": "D10.14.53", "lines": ["When near the house, he caught the harp-string’s tune,", "And spurred his steed beneath the cooling moon."]}, {"id": "D10.14.54", "lines": ["Toward the merchant’s house he rode at speed,", "And knocked, invoking God in word and deed."]}, {"id": "D10.14.55", "lines": ["A kindly handmaid asked, “Who knocks so late?", "Why pound so hard upon my master’s gate?”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.56", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “At dawn the Shah’s array", "Rode to the hunting-grounds to spend the day."]}, {"id": "D10.14.57", "lines": ["My horse went lame; I fell behind the line,", "And now no escort sees this trail of mine."]}, {"id": "D10.14.58", "lines": ["Here, in this thoroughfare, thieves lie in wait,", "To seize my steed and harness at the gate."]}, {"id": "D10.14.59", "lines": ["Therefore I need your shelter and your aid,", "Before this night has left me robbed and frayed.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.60", "lines": ["The handmaid told her lord, “A man asks grace;", "He fears for horse and harness at our place."]}, {"id": "D10.14.61", "lines": ["He says his horse and golden harness here", "Will tempt a thief; he seeks relief from fear.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.62", "lines": ["Mahiyar answered, “Open, let him stay;", "Have I not seen a guest before today?”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.63", "lines": ["The maid made haste to open wide the door:", "“Come in, my son, and be afraid no more.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.64", "lines": ["The Shah stepped in and saw on every side", "Attendants standing ready, far and wide."]}, {"id": "D10.14.65", "lines": ["He said within himself, “O God alone,", "You guide me to the good that You have shown."]}, {"id": "D10.14.66", "lines": ["May I be just in conduct evermore,", "And keep covetousness from my door."]}, {"id": "D10.14.67", "lines": ["Let arrogance not be my ruling creed;", "Let justice govern every act and deed."]}, {"id": "D10.14.68", "lines": ["Let all my subjects’ hearts rejoice and sing,", "And live in dignity beneath their king."]}, {"id": "D10.14.69", "lines": ["If knowledge and my justice grow in worth,", "My memory will shine beyond the earth."]}, {"id": "D10.14.70", "lines": ["May all my subjects, like this jeweler, hear", "The harp and revelry without a fear.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.71", "lines": ["On entering that lofty hall he saw", "The jeweler’s daughter and was held in awe."]}, {"id": "D10.14.72", "lines": ["The noble, seeing him, rose up and bowed,", "And hailed the guest with welcome warm and proud."]}, {"id": "D10.14.73", "lines": ["“Good evening, noble Pahlevan,” he said;", "“May all your foemen’s hearts be filled with dread.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.74", "lines": ["The host spread out a mat of woven pile,", "And set a cushion, greeting him the while."]}, {"id": "D10.14.75", "lines": ["He gazed with joy upon his guest’s bright face,", "Then ordered food brought forth with fitting grace."]}, {"id": "D10.14.76", "lines": ["A sumptuous board was spread with hot and cold,", "With dishes worthy of the great of old."]}, {"id": "D10.14.77", "lines": ["One faithful servant then secured the steed,", "And gave it lodging, grooming, rest, and feed."]}, {"id": "D10.14.78", "lines": ["Elsewhere they lodged Bahram’s attendant well,", "And showed him courtesies no words could tell."]}, {"id": "D10.14.79", "lines": ["They set a lower seat for Mahiyar,", "Who sat beside his guest, the hidden star."]}, {"id": "D10.14.80", "lines": ["He then addressed his guest, sincere and warm,", "And spoke with honest heart, in kindly form:"]}, {"id": "D10.14.81", "lines": ["“Brave Pahlevan, you are my guest tonight;", "My life and soul are yours by friendship’s right."]}, {"id": "D10.14.82", "lines": ["When we have eaten, we must drink, then sleep;", "Dark night is deep, and royal wines we keep."]}, {"id": "D10.14.83", "lines": ["When you have drunk your measure, take your rest;", "At dawn return to service, honored guest.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.84", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Who finds, in darkest night,", "A host whose welcome shines with such delight?"]}, {"id": "D10.14.85", "lines": ["We must be ever grateful to our God;", "The thankless always walk beneath His rod.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.86", "lines": ["The handmaid, awed to see the guest’s bright mien,", "Brought bowl and ewer and a napkin clean."]}, {"id": "D10.14.87", "lines": ["Their hands were washed; then came the wine-cup’s turn,", "And mirth and peace began in hearts to burn."]}, {"id": "D10.14.88", "lines": ["The handmaid brought a flagon and strong wine,", "With cups and flowers of fenugreek in line."]}, {"id": "D10.14.89", "lines": ["The noble first reached out, took up the cup,", "Then drank, and washed it clean, and raised it up."]}, {"id": "D10.14.90", "lines": ["With musk and rosewater he cleansed the bowl,", "And gave Bahram the cup that cheered the soul."]}, {"id": "D10.14.91", "lines": ["He said, “What is my boon-companion’s name?", "Let friendship bind us in a loyal claim."]}, {"id": "D10.14.92", "lines": ["I take Bahram the Shah as surety here,", "That we shall share the cup in loyal cheer.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.93", "lines": ["The king laughed heartily and then replied,", "“Gushasp is what men call me far and wide."]}, {"id": "D10.14.94", "lines": ["I came here, drawn by harp-song through the night,", "Not merely seeking lodging till the light.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.95", "lines": ["His host replied, “This daughter of my soul", "Uplifts my head and makes my gladness whole."]}, {"id": "D10.14.96", "lines": ["She is my cupbearer, and she sings too;", "She scatters care when grief comes into view.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.97", "lines": ["The maiden’s name was Arezu, his light;", "She served his wine and was his heart’s delight."]}, {"id": "D10.14.98", "lines": ["He told that cypress, “Bring your harp in here;", "Before Gushasp, our Pahlevan, appear.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.99", "lines": ["The harpist came before the monarch’s face,", "Like Yemen’s star Suhayl in stately grace."]}, {"id": "D10.14.100", "lines": ["She said, “O mighty Pahlevan, whose frame", "Befits a man who bears a kingly name,"]}, {"id": "D10.14.101", "lines": ["Know that this feasting house belongs to you;", "My father is host and treasurer too."]}, {"id": "D10.14.102", "lines": ["May all your darkest nights be blessed instead;", "Above the rain-cloud may you raise your head.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.103", "lines": ["He said to her, “Sit down, take up the harp;", "Let song begin at once, both sweet and sharp."]}, {"id": "D10.14.104", "lines": ["Tonight old Mahiyar shall be a youth,", "And pledge his soul to fellowship and truth.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.105", "lines": ["The harpist clasped her harp and, with rare skill,", "Played the Magians’ chant, and all grew still."]}, {"id": "D10.14.106", "lines": ["As silken chords rang out through all the room,", "An odor came as jasmine comes in bloom."]}, {"id": "D10.14.107", "lines": ["She sang to Mahiyar, her noble sire,", "And plaintive music trembled from the wire:"]}, {"id": "D10.14.108", "lines": ["“You stand, a cypress by the flowing stream;", "Your locks, once musk-dark, now like camphor gleam."]}, {"id": "D10.14.109", "lines": ["Your tongue is warm, your heart has love of peace;", "May hardship never from your foeman cease."]}, {"id": "D10.14.110", "lines": ["Let wisdom be the nourishment you prize;", "Your nature, like Fereydoon’s, great and wise."]}, {"id": "D10.14.111", "lines": ["I wait upon you as a handmaid true;", "Called Arezu, I joy in guests like you."]}, {"id": "D10.14.112", "lines": ["Our guest has made me joyful as a king", "Whose troops, triumphant, news of conquest bring.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.113", "lines": ["Her first song done, she turned her eyes his way,", "And sang to plaintive chords a second lay:"]}, {"id": "D10.14.114", "lines": ["“Sincere and brave, high-starred, whose peer is none,", "Who has not seen Bahram should see the sun"]}, {"id": "D10.14.115", "lines": ["Of your bright face, and find his image here:", "The Pahlevan all cherish and revere."]}, {"id": "D10.14.116", "lines": ["At court, you are the only match for him,", "A cypress tall, your waist reed-like and slim."]}, {"id": "D10.14.117", "lines": ["You have a pheasant’s carriage, lion’s heart,", "And elephantine strength in every part."]}, {"id": "D10.14.118", "lines": ["Full two farsangs in war you fling your spear;", "Your cheeks like pomegranate blooms appear."]}, {"id": "D10.14.119", "lines": ["Who washed those blossoms red in wine’s bright glow?", "Your arms like camel thighs in power show."]}, {"id": "D10.14.120", "lines": ["You trample Mount Bistoon beneath your feet;", "Your strength can cast that mountain from its seat."]}, {"id": "D10.14.121", "lines": ["I see no man to rival you in strife;", "May Arezu serve you faithfully through life.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.122", "lines": ["Her skill in harp and song, her charm and ease,", "Her stature, beauty, art, and power to please,"]}, {"id": "D10.14.123", "lines": ["So worked on Bahram that one might have said", "His joys had fled, and longing ruled instead."]}, {"id": "D10.14.124", "lines": ["When Mahiyar grew drunk before his guest,", "Bahram addressed his friend with frank request:"]}, {"id": "D10.14.125", "lines": ["“Give me your daughter, let her be my own,", "And praise shall crown you when the deed is known.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.126", "lines": ["Mahiyar asked her, “From this warrior here,", "What marriage gift would please you, daughter dear?"]}, {"id": "D10.14.127", "lines": ["See if he pleases you, and if it is well", "For you to go with him where fortunes dwell.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.128", "lines": ["Arezu replied, “Good father, hear me say:", "If you would give me to a man today,"]}, {"id": "D10.14.129", "lines": ["Gushasp alone is fit to be my mate;", "Why turn to Bahram for a different fate?”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.130", "lines": ["Her words displeased her father, and he said", "To Bahram, “Warrior whom all foemen dread,"]}, {"id": "D10.14.131", "lines": ["Regard her form and judge if she will suit:", "Her skill, discretion, knowledge, branch and root."]}, {"id": "D10.14.132", "lines": ["See whether she is pleasing to your heart;", "True sight is better than conjecture’s art."]}, {"id": "D10.14.133", "lines": ["She is accomplished and no beggar maid;", "I speak the truth; no false account is made."]}, {"id": "D10.14.134", "lines": ["If all my gems were counted and weighed out,", "They would surpass the Shah’s own bags, no doubt."]}, {"id": "D10.14.135", "lines": ["Be not too swift; tonight take rest instead,", "And, if you must, more wine to warm your head."]}, {"id": "D10.14.136", "lines": ["Great men make no agreements over wine,", "Especially for brides of noble line."]}, {"id": "D10.14.137", "lines": ["Wait till the sun has climbed the eastern sky,", "And noble men awake with watchful eye."]}, {"id": "D10.14.138", "lines": ["We then will call far-seeing elders near,", "Detached and learned, to judge the compact clear."]}, {"id": "D10.14.139", "lines": ["Such night-time business is no proper way;", "Fereydoon’s custom calls for light of day."]}, {"id": "D10.14.140", "lines": ["It is ill-omened, wedding over wine,", "Or sealing contracts before the sun can shine.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.141", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “This omen-talk is wrong;", "Do not draw omens when the heart is strong."]}, {"id": "D10.14.142", "lines": ["This harpist pleased me deeply in the night;", "So deem the matter fortunate and right.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.143", "lines": ["The father said, “Arezu, say what is true:", "Do looks and manners both approve him too?”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.144", "lines": ["She said, “I do approve him, heart and mind;", "Since first I saw him, I have been inclined."]}, {"id": "D10.14.145", "lines": ["Complete the work; trust God to be our guide;", "No heavenly feud hangs where we reside.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.146", "lines": ["Her father answered, “You are now his wife;", "Know you are joined beneath the law for life.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.147", "lines": ["He gave her then to Bahram as his bride;", "By dawn the marriage bond was sealed and tied."]}, {"id": "D10.14.148", "lines": ["The Shah’s attendant hung the royal whip", "Above the gate, with jeweled thong and grip."]}, {"id": "D10.14.149", "lines": ["Arezu went to her chamber, while around", "The sleeping village lay without a sound."]}, {"id": "D10.14.150", "lines": ["Mahiyar went to plan with eager zeal", "For Pahlevan Gushasp’s next morning meal."]}, {"id": "D10.14.151", "lines": ["He told a servant, “Bolt the doors, then take", "A fattened lamb and dress it for his sake."]}, {"id": "D10.14.152", "lines": ["No board should lack a lamb when guests arrive;", "Choose one well-fed, the fattest still alive."]}, {"id": "D10.14.153", "lines": ["Wait on Gushasp; when he wakes, draw near,", "And bring him ice with foaming, cooling beer."]}, {"id": "D10.14.154", "lines": ["Bring camphor and rosewater in a bowl,", "To scent his chamber and delight his soul."]}, {"id": "D10.14.155", "lines": ["I am as drunk as I was late last night;", "This old gem-seller cannot bear wine’s might.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.156", "lines": ["He spoke, drew up his cloak around his head,", "And sought the rest that wine bestows in bed."]}, {"id": "D10.14.157", "lines": ["When sunlight raised its crown above the skies,", "And earth like shining ivory met all eyes,"]}, {"id": "D10.14.158", "lines": ["With shields and double-headed spears in hand,", "The troops came seeking Bahram through the land."]}, {"id": "D10.14.159", "lines": ["The escort gathered round the jeweler’s gate,", "As though it were the Shah’s own court of state."]}, {"id": "D10.14.160", "lines": ["All who recognized the whip drew near,", "And bowed before it with submissive fear."]}, {"id": "D10.14.161", "lines": ["The porter saw the vast assembled crowd,", "The swordsmen and the spearmen calling loud."]}, {"id": "D10.14.162", "lines": ["He ran and roused his sleeping lord from rest,", "And sobered him with news that struck his breast."]}, {"id": "D10.14.163", "lines": ["He said, “Rise up; shake off your drunken sleep.", "Take heed: this is no hour for slumber deep."]}, {"id": "D10.14.164", "lines": ["The world’s king came to this poor house to stay;", "Here you caroused and drank the night away.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.165", "lines": ["The jeweler’s heart beat wildly at the word;", "He cried, “What say you? What have you heard?"]}, {"id": "D10.14.166", "lines": ["How have you traced the footsteps of the king?”", "Then truth descended with a sudden sting."]}, {"id": "D10.14.167", "lines": ["He sprang up from the bedclothes with a shout,", "And scolded hard the porter in his doubt."]}, {"id": "D10.14.168", "lines": ["“These are not words of wisdom or of age;", "What dream has made you speak in such a rage?”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.169", "lines": ["The slave replied, “Experienced man, attend:", "Who made you monarch of Iran, my friend?"]}, {"id": "D10.14.170", "lines": ["So vast a crowd has gathered at your gate", "That no man could pass through, however great."]}, {"id": "D10.14.171", "lines": ["Each man who comes salutes our screen; they all", "Bow as though in the king of kings’ own hall."]}, {"id": "D10.14.172", "lines": ["At dawn, before the sun began to shine,", "The guest’s attendant hung a jeweled sign."]}, {"id": "D10.14.173", "lines": ["A whip of gold and gems above our gate;", "Now hill and dale have sent their men to wait."]}, {"id": "D10.14.174", "lines": ["Around that jeweled whip the people press;", "Rise now, before the crowd brings more distress."]}, {"id": "D10.14.175", "lines": ["Do not let wine confuse your mind or face;", "The king himself is hidden in this place.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.176", "lines": ["The shrewd old man was troubled in his breast:", "“Why did I drink before so great a guest?"]}, {"id": "D10.14.177", "lines": ["Why did I let my daughter serve the wine,", "When such a guest had come beneath this sign?”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.178", "lines": ["To Arezu’s own chamber then he drew,", "And said, “My gracious Moon, I speak to you."]}, {"id": "D10.14.179", "lines": ["It was Bahram, the king of kings, last night,", "Who came disguised and entered out of sight."]}, {"id": "D10.14.180", "lines": ["Returning from the chase, he turned his rein,", "And entered here across the darkened plain."]}, {"id": "D10.14.181", "lines": ["Rise now and don brocade of Roman thread;", "Set last night’s crown upon your moonlike head."]}, {"id": "D10.14.182", "lines": ["Make him an offering worthy of his state:", "Three royal rubies of surpassing weight."]}, {"id": "D10.14.183", "lines": ["When you behold his sunlike face, stand low,", "And let your folded arms your reverence show."]}, {"id": "D10.14.184", "lines": ["Keep your eyes lowered; do not stare his way;", "Hold him as dear as life and breath each day."]}, {"id": "D10.14.185", "lines": ["Answer meekly when he questions you;", "Let every word be modest, clear, and true."]}, {"id": "D10.14.186", "lines": ["I shall not come unless the Shah commands,", "And gives me place among his courtly bands."]}, {"id": "D10.14.187", "lines": ["I sat beside him as though I were his peer;", "I wish that I had disappeared from here."]}, {"id": "D10.14.188", "lines": ["In drunkenness I matched myself with him;", "Wine makes the minds of every man grow dim.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.189", "lines": ["Just then a slave came hurrying to say,", "“The Shah, that ardent spirit, wakes today.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.190", "lines": ["When Bahram woke, refreshed from restful sleep,", "He went to bathe where garden waters sweep."]}, {"id": "D10.14.191", "lines": ["He prayed before the sun, with trust in God,", "Then crossed the fragrant garden’s morning sod."]}, {"id": "D10.14.192", "lines": ["Returning to the hall in royal state,", "He bade a servant bring the wine, not wait."]}, {"id": "D10.14.193", "lines": ["He heard his retinue had come that day,", "And bade them turn and take the road away."]}, {"id": "D10.14.194", "lines": ["He called Arezu, whom his heart desired;", "She came with wine and gifts as he required."]}, {"id": "D10.14.195", "lines": ["A handmaid bore her crown and earrings bright;", "Arezu bowed and kissed the ground outright."]}, {"id": "D10.14.196", "lines": ["The Shah smiled: “Where were you? You went away,", "And left me drunk, alone with wine to stay."]}, {"id": "D10.14.197", "lines": ["Your harp and song are all I ask of you;", "Let women’s gifts go elsewhere, as they do."]}, {"id": "D10.14.198", "lines": ["Come sing to me of chase and royal fight,", "Of spearhead-blows and war in armored light.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.199", "lines": ["He said, “Where is the jeweler? We were one", "In wine together till last night was done.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.200", "lines": ["His daughter called her father when she heard,", "Amazed the Shah recalled each drunken word."]}, {"id": "D10.14.201", "lines": ["Mahiyar came with arms across his breast,", "Before the sunlike king, a humble guest."]}, {"id": "D10.14.202", "lines": ["He cried, “O Shah, O chief, O wise and great,", "May all the world turn toward your crown and state."]}, {"id": "D10.14.203", "lines": ["The man who drinks the cup of folly needs", "To guard his tongue and curb his reckless deeds."]}, {"id": "D10.14.204", "lines": ["I erred through ignorance, not evil will;", "Distressed, I fear you think my mind is ill."]}, {"id": "D10.14.205", "lines": ["Grant pardon, make my face and fortune bright;", "I stand, a foolish slave, before your sight.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.206", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “The wise give no belief", "To drunken words, nor hold them cause for grief."]}, {"id": "D10.14.207", "lines": ["If wine brings sorrow, let that drinker flee", "Its very scent and color, and be free."]}, {"id": "D10.14.208", "lines": ["I saw no ill behavior in you here;", "Now listen to Arezu’s music clear."]}, {"id": "D10.14.209", "lines": ["Let song excuse you; raise the cup today,", "And leave tomorrow’s troubles far away.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.210", "lines": ["Mahiyar kissed the ground and spread the board,", "And fetched the nobles gathered near his lord."]}, {"id": "D10.14.211", "lines": ["Arezu saw the strangers and withdrew,", "Her brow drawn tight among the guests so new."]}, {"id": "D10.14.212", "lines": ["She stayed until the sky was clothed in night,", "And stars around the moon came into sight."]}, {"id": "D10.14.213", "lines": ["Called back, Arezu took a golden seat,", "And sang of chase and war in accents sweet."]}, {"id": "D10.14.214", "lines": ["“O fearless king, the lion, put to shame,", "Will leave the woods on hearing your great name."]}, {"id": "D10.14.215", "lines": ["Shah, victor, breaker of the battle-line,", "Tulip on jasmine makes your features shine."]}, {"id": "D10.14.216", "lines": ["No earthly ruler matches you in height;", "Your face outshines the moon in heaven’s light."]}, {"id": "D10.14.217", "lines": ["When armies see your helmet in the fight,", "Their hearts and minds are torn apart by fright."]}, {"id": "D10.14.218", "lines": ["Their senses fail them, and they cannot know", "The heights above them from the depths below.”"]}, {"id": "D10.14.219", "lines": ["When they had eaten, wine had made them glad,", "And cup on cup renewed the joy they had."]}, {"id": "D10.14.220", "lines": ["Then Rozbeh came with pomp to greet his lord;", "They lodged him by the gate, with bed and board."]}, {"id": "D10.14.221", "lines": ["They brought a litter, forty eunuchs too,", "All moon-faced, for the bride’s departure due."]}, {"id": "D10.14.222", "lines": ["Their Roman faces shone like rich brocade,", "And all the countryside seemed newly made."]}, {"id": "D10.14.223", "lines": ["A jeweled crown adorned the maiden’s head;", "Toward Bahram Goor’s bower Arezu then sped."]}, {"id": "D10.15.1", "lines": ["With Rozbeh, Bahram left his men that day,", "And rode toward his wives in glad array."]}, {"id": "D10.15.2", "lines": ["He passed the night, then rode at dawn to chase;", "His troops spread out through every road and place."]}, {"id": "D10.15.3", "lines": ["For one full month they camped upon the plain,", "With tents and royal pavilions in their train."]}, {"id": "D10.15.4", "lines": ["They swept the field for game on every side;", "At night, no man from wine or music shied."]}, {"id": "D10.15.5", "lines": ["There all was game and flesh, with harp and lyre,", "And round the plain they kindled many a fire."]}, {"id": "D10.15.6", "lines": ["They burned both green and dry wood in the blaze,", "While dealers came from town through dusty ways."]}, {"id": "D10.15.7", "lines": ["They tarried there to trade with Bahram’s men;", "The plain grew bright with buyers once again."]}, {"id": "D10.15.8", "lines": ["A quarter dinar bought the hunters’ gain:", "Ten gazelles and one Gur-e-Khar from the plain."]}, {"id": "D10.15.9", "lines": ["Whoever needed meat for child or guest", "Took home both game and waterfowl, the best."]}, {"id": "D10.15.10", "lines": ["On loaded asses game was borne away;", "When one month passed, the Shah could brook no stay."]}, {"id": "D10.15.11", "lines": ["He yearned for wives and court, and turned his horse,", "And led his people on the homeward course."]}, {"id": "D10.15.12", "lines": ["So thick the dust, no traveler saw the road;", "Through these driving clouds the horsemen all rode."]}, {"id": "D10.15.13", "lines": ["They sped until the cheeks of day grew blue,", "Like lapis lazuli in evening’s hue."]}, {"id": "D10.15.14", "lines": ["The Shah observed a town before his sight,", "With houses, roads, bazaars, and fading light."]}, {"id": "D10.15.15", "lines": ["He bade the troops and baggage take the road,", "And stayed alone to seek a night’s abode."]}, {"id": "D10.15.16", "lines": ["He asked, “Where is the chief man of this place?”", "Then made toward him with a searching face."]}, {"id": "D10.15.17", "lines": ["He saw a shattered entrance, low and wide;", "Its owner came and bowed there at his side."]}, {"id": "D10.15.18", "lines": ["The Shah inquired, “Whose ruin is this here?", "Why stands it in such plight for all to peer?”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.19", "lines": ["The master said, “It is mine; evil luck", "Has been my guide; its mire has held me stuck."]}, {"id": "D10.15.20", "lines": ["I have no cattle, clothing, food, or store;", "No strength, no means to earn a morsel more."]}, {"id": "D10.15.21", "lines": ["You saw me first; now see my house’s state,", "More fit for curse than blessing at its gate.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.22", "lines": ["The Shah dismounted, looked about the place;", "His limbs grew weak to see its sorry case."]}, {"id": "D10.15.23", "lines": ["The house was vaulted, large, yet everywhere", "Sheep-droppings fouled the floor and tainted air."]}, {"id": "D10.15.24", "lines": ["He said, “Bring me a seat where I may stay", "And rest, kind host, from riding all this way.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.25", "lines": ["The other said, “Why mock your host with jest?", "Had I fine drapes, they would content my guest."]}, {"id": "D10.15.26", "lines": ["But I have neither food nor carpet spread,", "No clothing fit to lay beneath your head."]}, {"id": "D10.15.27", "lines": ["Pray lodge elsewhere; in poverty I dwell;", "This place serves neither guest nor master well.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.28", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Fetch a cushion, I request,", "That I may sit awhile and take my rest.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.29", "lines": ["He answered, “I have nothing here at all;", "Would you have bird’s milk brought at once on call?”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.30", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Bring warm milk, if you can,", "And soft bread too, O hospitable man.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.31", "lines": ["The other said, “Pretend that you have fed,", "Then bid farewell and leave this place instead."]}, {"id": "D10.15.32", "lines": ["Had I one loaf, I would not lie half-dead;", "Yet life itself is better far than bread.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.33", "lines": ["Bahram asked, “If you have no sheep, explain", "How droppings fill this vaulted house and plain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.34", "lines": ["“It is late,” he said, “your questions but confuse;", "My wearied mind can neither think nor choose."]}, {"id": "D10.15.35", "lines": ["Seek out a house where matting can be spread;", "Its owner will be glad to give you bed."]}, {"id": "D10.15.36", "lines": ["Why stay with one whom Fortune has passed by,", "Who sleeps on leaves beneath the darkened sky?"]}, {"id": "D10.15.37", "lines": ["You have a golden sword and stirrups bright;", "You should not lodge where thieves may prowl at night."]}, {"id": "D10.15.38", "lines": ["For thieves and lions haunt these hulks of stone;", "A lord like you should not lodge here alone.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.39", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “If thieves should steal my blade,", "No claim against you for it will be made."]}, {"id": "D10.15.40", "lines": ["Give lodging for tonight; this is my plea.”", "The owner said, “Expect no aid from me."]}, {"id": "D10.15.41", "lines": ["No stranger finds a bed beneath my roof.”", "The Shah replied, “Why treat me with reproof?"]}, {"id": "D10.15.42", "lines": ["Still, you will give me water, I suppose,", "O noble man, before the night shall close.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.43", "lines": ["The householder replied, “Did you not spy", "The pool, two arrow-flights and more nearby?"]}, {"id": "D10.15.44", "lines": ["Drink there and take whatever water you will;", "Why seek it from this poor man’s dwelling still?"]}, {"id": "D10.15.45", "lines": ["Have you not seen how age has ended toil,", "And weakness bends me toward my native soil?”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.46", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “If you possess no might,", "Do not provoke a soldier to a fight."]}, {"id": "D10.15.47", "lines": ["Enough of this; set all your tricks aside.", "Speak plainly now: what name is yours?” he cried."]}, {"id": "D10.15.48", "lines": ["He answered, “Farshidvard; no land I own,", "No clothes, no food, no sleep have I yet known.”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.49", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Why not exert your will,", "And seek, with such a name, to eat your fill?”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.50", "lines": ["The master said, “The Giver may end my woe;", "He knows how long my ruined life should go."]}, {"id": "D10.15.51", "lines": ["If you would quit my house, I would rejoice,", "And offer thanks to God with lifted voice."]}, {"id": "D10.15.52", "lines": ["Why did you come into this empty place?", "May you know neither greatness, wealth, nor grace!”"]}, {"id": "D10.15.53", "lines": ["He spoke, then wept until his cries arose;", "The Shah fled from the uproar of his woes."]}, {"id": "D10.15.54", "lines": ["He laughed and left the old man’s poor abode;", "His escort followed as he took the road."]}, {"id": "D10.16.1", "lines": ["When Bahram left that well-known town behind,", "Before him lay a bramble brake entwined."]}, {"id": "D10.16.2", "lines": ["A man was seen who gripped an axe to clear", "The tangled thorns that spread before him here."]}, {"id": "D10.16.3", "lines": ["The monarch left his retinue and came,", "And hailed the grubber with a fitting name:"]}, {"id": "D10.16.4", "lines": ["“O foe of brambles, tell me clearly now:", "Who ranks the highest in that town, and how?”"]}, {"id": "D10.16.5", "lines": ["He answered, “Farshidvard, a greedy man,", "Whose greed denies him food and sleep’s brief span."]}, {"id": "D10.16.6", "lines": ["He has perhaps a hundred thousand sheep,", "And camels, steeds, and asses more to keep."]}, {"id": "D10.16.7", "lines": ["The earth is filled with all his hoarded gold;", "Yet may the earth receive his body cold."]}, {"id": "D10.16.8", "lines": ["His lot is hunger, nakedness, and pain;", "No child, no kin, no friend relieves his strain."]}, {"id": "D10.16.9", "lines": ["A captive in the grip of greed and need,", "His wasted body starves for lack of feed."]}, {"id": "D10.16.10", "lines": ["If he sold all his farmland for its worth,", "His house could brim with gems drawn from the earth."]}, {"id": "D10.16.11", "lines": ["His shepherds feast on meat in milk, at ease;", "He eats but millet bread with humble cheese."]}, {"id": "D10.16.12", "lines": ["He never owned two coats at once in life;", "He is his own oppressor, scourge, and strife.”"]}, {"id": "D10.16.13", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Though his numbers none can trace,", "Where does he pasture them in such a place?"]}, {"id": "D10.16.14", "lines": ["Where roam his camels, sheep, and coursers fleet?", "Where are his herds, and where is their retreat?”"]}, {"id": "D10.16.15", "lines": ["The grubber said, “It is not far from here;", "Those camels, sheep, and cattle are his, I fear.”"]}, {"id": "D10.16.16", "lines": ["Bahram Goor gave the grubber bright dinars,", "And said, “This day shall soften all your scars.”"]}, {"id": "D10.16.17", "lines": ["He called a brave horseman, Behruz by name,", "Who from the ranks of his own escort came."]}, {"id": "D10.16.18", "lines": ["He sent a hundred horsemen at his side,", "All free of fear and doubt, all proved and tried."]}, {"id": "D10.16.19", "lines": ["He chose a scribe as well, an honest man,", "A skilled accountant fit to count and scan."]}, {"id": "D10.16.20", "lines": ["He told the grubber, “You grubbed thorns before;", "Now reap the gold that waits in hidden store."]}, {"id": "D10.16.21", "lines": ["One hundredth of the wealth shall be your own;", "Lead these my men to where the hoard is known.”"]}, {"id": "D10.16.22", "lines": ["The grubber’s name was Dilafruz the bright,", "A stalwart man of stately form and height."]}, {"id": "D10.16.23", "lines": ["Bahram bestowed on him a noble steed,", "And said, “Ride with the wind and take the lead.”"]}, {"id": "D10.16.24", "lines": ["Called Light of Hearts, he shone with fortune’s blaze,", "And now the whole world brightened in his rays."]}, {"id": "D10.16.25", "lines": ["He led the troop across both hill and plain,", "Past countless flocks that whitened every lane."]}, {"id": "D10.16.26", "lines": ["Ten camel caravans filled that domain,", "Each with a keeper in that wealthy train."]}, {"id": "D10.16.27", "lines": ["Each caravan was led by a cameleer,", "Who tended all the camels gathered here."]}, {"id": "D10.16.28", "lines": ["Twelve thousand cattle next the scribe enrolled,", "For milk and plowing, kept in herdsmen’s fold."]}, {"id": "D10.16.29", "lines": ["Full twenty thousand steeds and camels spread;", "The meadows withered underneath their tread."]}, {"id": "D10.16.30", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand camel-loads were stored", "Of curds upon the mountains, hoard on hoard."]}, {"id": "D10.16.31", "lines": ["There jars of butter filled pits in the ground;", "Fresh curds and dried lay heaped in mounds around."]}, {"id": "D10.16.32", "lines": ["Height, slope, and level held wealth past account;", "Yet none had ever reckoned its amount."]}, {"id": "D10.16.33", "lines": ["Behruz Hur then prepared his words to write,", "And praised almighty God, the Source of light."]}, {"id": "D10.16.34", "lines": ["He praised the All-victorious, All-feeding One,", "Then Bahram, king beneath the turning sun."]}, {"id": "D10.16.35", "lines": ["He said, “O monarch, joy of all who live,", "Your justice passes all that kings can give."]}, {"id": "D10.16.36", "lines": ["Your silence leaves the treasury to pay;", "In all things, measure is the better way."]}, {"id": "D10.16.37", "lines": ["The Shah should live in joy without an end,", "Yet none are served by what this man could spend."]}, {"id": "D10.16.38", "lines": ["A wretch named Farshidvard lives here concealed,", "Unknown at feast and on the battlefield."]}, {"id": "D10.16.39", "lines": ["He fears not God or Shah, and gives no thanks", "For wealth that fills his hills and riverbanks."]}, {"id": "D10.16.40", "lines": ["He spreads his wealth across these hills unseen,", "Yet lives deprived, impoverished, and lean."]}, {"id": "D10.16.41", "lines": ["Your justice seems injustice in this case;", "Do not count counsel as my own disgrace."]}, {"id": "D10.16.42", "lines": ["From all this wealth establish royal stores,", "A treasury to fill those guarded doors."]}, {"id": "D10.16.43", "lines": ["By the third year, the treasury would stand;", "I summoned scribes to count at my command."]}, {"id": "D10.16.44", "lines": ["On Mount Alborz I settled them to write,", "Yet still the sum escapes their pens and sight."]}, {"id": "D10.16.45", "lines": ["Though writers’ backs are bent, they cannot say", "How much this miser hid from open day."]}, {"id": "D10.16.46", "lines": ["Besides, men say that underneath the ground", "Still greater stores of gold and gems are found."]}, {"id": "D10.16.47", "lines": ["Here in the mountains I await command,", "With both eyes fixed upon the royal hand."]}, {"id": "D10.16.48", "lines": ["My salutation to the Shah; may he", "Live long, the crown of all the world to me.”"]}, {"id": "D10.16.49", "lines": ["He sent a swift-paced camel on the road,", "To bear the letter to the Shah’s abode."]}, {"id": "D10.16.50", "lines": ["When Bahram read it, grief disturbed his mind;", "Tears filled his eyes; his brows were deeply lined."]}, {"id": "D10.16.51", "lines": ["He called for silk of Chin and Roman quill,", "And bade a scribe draw near and use his skill."]}, {"id": "D10.16.52", "lines": ["He first gave thanks to God, the knowing Guide,", "Whose farr and kingship rule on every side."]}, {"id": "D10.16.53", "lines": ["“If I be just, I must not crush this man,", "Whose wealth through neither theft nor blood began."]}, {"id": "D10.16.54", "lines": ["He has not stolen, nor caused others wrong;", "But thanklessness has ruled his heart too long."]}, {"id": "D10.16.55", "lines": ["He lacked the fear of God, and kept strict guard", "On treasure that made soul and body hard."]}, {"id": "D10.16.56", "lines": ["What use are wolf or sheep upon the plain,", "If they bring strife and trouble without gain?"]}, {"id": "D10.16.57", "lines": ["What use are gems or stones beneath the ground,", "When neither food nor clothing can be found?"]}, {"id": "D10.16.58", "lines": ["We shall not build our treasury from woe,", "Nor fix our hearts on fleeting things below."]}, {"id": "D10.16.59", "lines": ["Fereydoon vanished, Iraj too is gone,", "With Tur and Salm, whose fame from old was drawn."]}, {"id": "D10.16.60", "lines": ["Kavus and Kay Qobad have passed away,", "With mighty kings whose names survive today."]}, {"id": "D10.16.61", "lines": ["My father too, who filled my heart with pain,", "Was neither just nor generous in his reign."]}, {"id": "D10.16.62", "lines": ["None of these mighty men remains in sight;", "No one can strive with God’s eternal right."]}, {"id": "D10.16.63", "lines": ["Collect this wealth and give it all away;", "Take nothing for yourself as spoil or pay."]}, {"id": "D10.16.64", "lines": ["Give to all those who hide their needs in shame,", "And wait in vain for help to ease their flame."]}, {"id": "D10.16.65", "lines": ["Give old men past all work, despised by those", "Whose wealth has sealed their hearts against their woes."]}, {"id": "D10.16.66", "lines": ["Give those who spent their all and breathe cold sighs,", "And men of name whom poverty denies."]}, {"id": "D10.16.67", "lines": ["Give traders stripped of friends and means their share;", "Give orphans gold and silver, and their fare."]}, {"id": "D10.16.68", "lines": ["Give women who have neither spouse nor dress,", "No craft, no work, no refuge from distress."]}, {"id": "D10.16.69", "lines": ["Bring radiance to the lives of souls so poor;", "Let wealth bring light and make their footing sure."]}, {"id": "D10.16.70", "lines": ["Return then to the city from the store;", "Live free of any need for treasure more."]}, {"id": "D10.16.71", "lines": ["Leave Farshidvard the dinars he concealed;", "Spare him the pain their loss would have revealed."]}, {"id": "D10.16.72", "lines": ["What are his gems and dinars more than clay,", "When in the grave he must be laid away?"]}, {"id": "D10.16.73", "lines": ["May turning heaven walk with you as friend;", "Walk justly and with prudence to the end.”"]}, {"id": "D10.16.74", "lines": ["The Shah’s seal marked the letter to be sent;", "The courier turned, and back to Behruz went."]}, {"id": "D10.17.1", "lines": ["Bahram set up his seat of royal state", "Within the pleasance, bright at springtime’s gate."]}, {"id": "D10.17.2", "lines": ["As he commanded, there the throne was laid", "Beneath a tree whose blossoms filled the shade."]}, {"id": "D10.17.3", "lines": ["They brought the wine and cups, a merry throng", "Of chiefs and minstrels bearing gifts of song."]}, {"id": "D10.17.4", "lines": ["The king addressed his counselors: “We find", "Our joy in fellowship with humankind."]}, {"id": "D10.17.5", "lines": ["Though we have stature, mien, and noble frame,", "We face the lonely tomb without acclaim."]}, {"id": "D10.17.6", "lines": ["Death wipes away the records of our day,", "And brings our halls and palaces to clay."]}, {"id": "D10.17.7", "lines": ["The king and beggar, when their lives are through,", "Take but the good name earned by what they do."]}, {"id": "D10.17.8", "lines": ["Whatever men have earned by toil must stay", "Behind them when at last they pass away."]}, {"id": "D10.17.9", "lines": ["Enough if praise of us remains behind;", "The crown and girdle pass to other kind."]}, {"id": "D10.17.10", "lines": ["You need uprightness, innocence, and grace,", "So joy may bring no harm and no disgrace."]}, {"id": "D10.17.11", "lines": ["Already thirty-eight full years have passed;", "How many days of joy have fled so fast."]}, {"id": "D10.17.12", "lines": ["But once a man has lived through forty years,", "The thought of death within his heart appears."]}, {"id": "D10.17.13", "lines": ["If one white hair appears among the black,", "The joys of youth begin to turn their back."]}, {"id": "D10.17.14", "lines": ["When musk turns white as camphor, musk is spent;", "Such camphor ill becomes the crown’s intent."]}, {"id": "D10.17.15", "lines": ["Two years more I will spend in feast and sport,", "Then, strength half-broken, seek God’s higher court."]}, {"id": "D10.17.16", "lines": ["In rough cloth I will stand before His face,", "And give Him thanks forever for His grace."]}, {"id": "D10.17.17", "lines": ["For I have passed my days with crown and joy,", "And tasted all the pleasures kings employ."]}, {"id": "D10.17.18", "lines": ["With rose, pomegranate, apple, quince, and wine,", "Let golden goblets never fail to shine."]}, {"id": "D10.17.19", "lines": ["When apples take the garnet’s crimson glow,", "And skies the leopard’s dappled markings show,"]}, {"id": "D10.17.20", "lines": ["When fragrant blossoms flourish all around,", "And solace in the crimson wine is found,"]}, {"id": "D10.17.21", "lines": ["When air is pleasant, neither hot nor cold,", "Earth fresh, and water blue through fields unrolled,"]}, {"id": "D10.17.22", "lines": ["When furs in Mehrgan’s chill our limbs enfold,", "Then I to Jaz will ride, as kings of old."]}, {"id": "D10.17.23", "lines": ["I will hold royal hunting on that field,", "And leave a lasting memory through its yield."]}, {"id": "D10.17.24", "lines": ["The Gur-e-Khar grows thick of neck; its hide", "Bears tiger’s hues, a lion’s heart inside."]}, {"id": "D10.17.25", "lines": ["No dogs or cheetahs need that lengthy ride,", "Nor hawks and falcons carried at our side."]}, {"id": "D10.17.26", "lines": ["That place is fit for gorz and bow and chase;", "No hour shall pass without the hunter’s race."]}, {"id": "D10.17.27", "lines": ["The plain I saw near Jaz was thick with reeds,", "Like spear-shafts rising where the hunter speeds."]}, {"id": "D10.17.28", "lines": ["There we shall find the lion in his den,", "And hunt, if time allows, with mounted men.”"]}, {"id": "D10.17.29", "lines": ["He paused till Shahrivar had massed its clouds,", "Then troops from every quarter came in crowds."]}, {"id": "D10.17.30", "lines": ["From every clime an army keen for strife", "Set toward Iran’s monarch, lord of life."]}, {"id": "D10.17.31", "lines": ["He chose among them noted chiefs for chase,", "And gathered mounted swordsmen to the place."]}, {"id": "D10.17.32", "lines": ["A full ten thousand horsemen, swords in hand,", "He carried with him toward the hunting land."]}, {"id": "D10.17.33", "lines": ["They brought pavilions, tents, enclosures wide,", "With beasts and shelters moving at his side."]}, {"id": "D10.17.34", "lines": ["Before Bahram, the laborers rode ahead,", "And dug fresh wells along the route they led."]}, {"id": "D10.17.35", "lines": ["They fitted wheels above the wells they made,", "To draw the water for the army’s aid."]}, {"id": "D10.17.36", "lines": ["The Shah came later with his royal mien,", "And saw the hunting ground, both wide and green."]}, {"id": "D10.17.37", "lines": ["He saw the plains alive with Gur-e-Khar,", "And heard the lions roaring from afar."]}, {"id": "D10.17.38", "lines": ["He said, “Here lies the quarry I would claim,", "Where lions prowl, and woods are full of game."]}, {"id": "D10.17.39", "lines": ["Drink wine tonight and let your spirits soar,", "While meat and merry cheer attend our store."]}, {"id": "D10.17.40", "lines": ["Then take your rest until the dawn grows bright,", "And Sol, the world’s great luster, ends the night."]}, {"id": "D10.17.41", "lines": ["Our scimitars shall fell the lions first,", "Those savage terrors in their roaring thirst."]}, {"id": "D10.17.42", "lines": ["We shall clear lions from the wood, then eat", "The Gur-e-Khar my shafts bring down for meat.”"]}, {"id": "D10.17.43", "lines": ["He stayed that night, and when the morning shone,", "He reached the forest with his men alone."]}, {"id": "D10.17.44", "lines": ["A lion, full of Gur-e-Khar, drew near,", "And strode before the monarch without fear."]}, {"id": "D10.17.45", "lines": ["Brave Bahram said, “Although I have my bow,", "And skill enough to lay that monster low,"]}, {"id": "D10.17.46", "lines": ["I will assail this lion with my blade,", "So no man calls me coward or afraid.”"]}, {"id": "D10.17.47", "lines": ["He donned a coat of wool, soaked through, as guard,", "And sprang upon his charger, riding hard."]}, {"id": "D10.17.48", "lines": ["When that great dragon-lion saw him near,", "It reared and struck its claws in rage and fear."]}, {"id": "D10.17.49", "lines": ["It sought to smite the charger on the head;", "The warrior spurred his horse ahead instead."]}, {"id": "D10.17.50", "lines": ["He struck the lion’s head; its mate took flight,", "And fled before the monarch’s dreadful might."]}, {"id": "D10.17.51", "lines": ["He clove the lion through with one swift blade;", "The forest beasts beheld him, sore afraid."]}, {"id": "D10.17.52", "lines": ["Another lion roared and faced his foe;", "His mate lay nursing little cubs below."]}, {"id": "D10.17.53", "lines": ["Bahram’s sharp khanjar struck the lion’s neck,", "And left its severed head beside the wreck."]}, {"id": "D10.17.54", "lines": ["One said to him, “O sun-faced Shah of might,", "Have you no mercy on yourself in fight?"]}, {"id": "D10.17.55", "lines": ["This wood is full of lions and their young,", "With nursing cubs from savage mothers sprung."]}, {"id": "D10.17.56", "lines": ["Be wary now, however bold you feel;", "By Mehrgan their young run close at their heel."]}, {"id": "D10.17.57", "lines": ["Three farsangs mark this forest’s full extent;", "Though one whole year in hunting lions were spent,"]}, {"id": "D10.17.58", "lines": ["The world would still have lions left to slay;", "Why lay such labor on yourself today?"]}, {"id": "D10.17.59", "lines": ["When first you took the throne, the compact stood:", "You fought the lions for your royal good."]}, {"id": "D10.17.60", "lines": ["Now you are Shah, and all the world is yours;", "Why still fight beasts behind these forest doors?"]}, {"id": "D10.17.61", "lines": ["You came for Gur-e-Khar and bowman’s play,", "Not lion-strife to wear your strength away.”"]}, {"id": "D10.17.62", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Old sage, let dawn arrive,", "Then Gur-e-Khar and shaft shall come alive."]}, {"id": "D10.17.63", "lines": ["No mounted chief has earned a lasting name", "Through bow and arrow as his only claim."]}, {"id": "D10.17.64", "lines": ["If we would give to manhood all its due,", "The gorz and sword must win us honor too.”"]}, {"id": "D10.17.65", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Had ten such men as you", "Gone into battle, steadfast, tried, and true,"]}, {"id": "D10.17.66", "lines": ["Then Rum and Chin would kneel in full defeat;", "Wise men would ship their goods in swift retreat."]}, {"id": "D10.17.67", "lines": ["Far be the evil eye from such a farr;", "May rose and feast attend you where you are.”"]}, {"id": "D10.17.68", "lines": ["Then with Mobadan and his captains near,", "The Shah rode from the woods to shouts of cheer."]}, {"id": "D10.17.69", "lines": ["As he rode home, the troops acclaimed their king:", "“Long may you rule with crown and signet ring!”"]}, {"id": "D10.17.70", "lines": ["That Pahlevan then reached his royal tent;", "He sent his escort off with his consent."]}, {"id": "D10.17.71", "lines": ["He washed away the sweat of hunt and heat;", "A trusty steward made his tent complete."]}, {"id": "D10.17.72", "lines": ["They cleared the thorns and swept the royal floor;", "Musk, camphor, and rosewater they would pour."]}, {"id": "D10.17.73", "lines": ["They scattered musk where Bahram planned to sleep,", "And golden tables stood in ordered keep."]}, {"id": "D10.17.74", "lines": ["They dressed the tables with the garden’s bloom,", "And lamb and other dishes filled the room."]}, {"id": "D10.17.75", "lines": ["When eating ended, Shah Bahram Goor called", "For one great crystal cup that all enthralled."]}, {"id": "D10.17.76", "lines": ["A fairy-faced cupbearer brought it near,", "And placed it in the just king’s hands with cheer."]}, {"id": "D10.17.77", "lines": ["He said, “Great Ardeshir, whose fortune’s fire", "Made old men young, established our empire."]}, {"id": "D10.17.78", "lines": ["We are his servants, if we earn that name;", "He was the source from which our greatness came."]}, {"id": "D10.17.79", "lines": ["In fight and feast, at counsel and at board,", "Give none but him the title of true lord."]}, {"id": "D10.17.80", "lines": ["When Iskandar came forth from Roman land,", "He wrecked Iran with harsh and ruthless hand."]}, {"id": "D10.17.81", "lines": ["He slew thirty-six kings; their curse still lies", "Upon that brutal man beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "D10.17.82", "lines": ["The earth condemns his evil to this hour,", "While Fereydoon’s good name keeps all its power."]}, {"id": "D10.17.83", "lines": ["May only good from me, and never hate,", "Proceed throughout the world and every state."]}, {"id": "D10.17.84", "lines": ["Bring me a herald, strong of voice and bearing,", "To circle through the camp, my edict sharing."]}, {"id": "D10.17.85", "lines": ["Let him proclaim through desert, road, and way:", "Whoever steals another’s goods today,"]}, {"id": "D10.17.86", "lines": ["Be they rich gems, brocade, or sable furs,", "Or worthless chaff where Barkooh’s pasture stirs,"]}, {"id": "D10.17.87", "lines": ["Turned backward on his horse, in shameful plight,", "Shall ride between two guards in all men’s sight."]}, {"id": "D10.17.88", "lines": ["With ankles bound beneath his mount, he goes", "To Azargashasp, where sacred fire glows."]}, {"id": "D10.17.89", "lines": ["Before the sacred fire he shall bow low,", "And worship God, to whom all thanks we owe."]}, {"id": "D10.17.90", "lines": ["His goods shall go to those he robbed, to pay", "For what he took and hurt along the way."]}, {"id": "D10.17.91", "lines": ["If any horse should damage planted grain,", "Or fruit trees suffer from a rider’s rein,"]}, {"id": "D10.17.92", "lines": ["That rider spends a year behind the door", "Of prison, whatsoever rank he bore."]}, {"id": "D10.17.93", "lines": ["Our hunt has brought enough of toil and strain;", "Let no town suffer hardship in our train.”"]}, {"id": "D10.17.94", "lines": ["From Jaz and Barkooh merchants came with wares,", "And made the camp like Chin’s great market fairs."]}, {"id": "D10.18.1", "lines": ["Next day, when sun displayed its golden crown,", "The Shah rode forth to hunt Gur-e-Khar down."]}, {"id": "D10.18.2", "lines": ["The soldiers strung their bows across the plain;", "The Shah himself rode in the rearward train."]}, {"id": "D10.18.3", "lines": ["He said, “Let every archer hunting game", "Draw back his bow and take a steady aim."]}, {"id": "D10.18.4", "lines": ["The shaft should strike behind and pierce the chest,", "And prove the archer’s mastery at its best.”"]}, {"id": "D10.18.5", "lines": ["A Pahlevan replied, “O king of grace,", "Look through the ranks assembled in this place."]}, {"id": "D10.18.6", "lines": ["Among your friends or foes, no hand is known", "To match the strength that you possess alone."]}, {"id": "D10.18.7", "lines": ["May head and crown live ever; when you wield", "The bow, the gorz, the sword, our spirits yield."]}, {"id": "D10.18.8", "lines": ["Your royal farr and stature bring us shame;", "Our hands grow weak, and none can take his aim.”"]}, {"id": "D10.18.9", "lines": ["The Shah said, “God has given me this skill;", "What strength has Bahram save through Heaven’s will?”"]}, {"id": "D10.18.10", "lines": ["He urged Shabdiz and neared a buck at speed;", "Then loosed his shaft while racing on his steed."]}, {"id": "D10.18.11", "lines": ["The arrow struck exactly as he meant;", "Through haunch and breast its deadly passage went."]}, {"id": "D10.18.12", "lines": ["When it fell dead, the golden-belted came,", "And marveled at the shot and praised his name."]}, {"id": "D10.18.13", "lines": ["They could not see the arrow’s point or vane;", "Both lay concealed within the creature slain."]}, {"id": "D10.18.14", "lines": ["The warlike Pahlevans praised what they saw,", "And one addressed the Shah in wondering awe:"]}, {"id": "D10.18.15", "lines": ["“O king, may evil never venture near;", "You are a horseman; we ride asses here."]}, {"id": "D10.18.16", "lines": ["We lack the skill that donkey riders show;", "Beside their art, our own stands far below.”"]}, {"id": "D10.18.17", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “That arrow was not mine;", "The All-conqueror granted force divine."]}, {"id": "D10.18.18", "lines": ["No man beneath the sky is more forlorn", "Than one whom God abandons to His scorn.”"]}, {"id": "D10.18.19", "lines": ["He spurred his horse, which seemed to soar from view,", "As though on wings of the homa it flew."]}, {"id": "D10.18.20", "lines": ["A female Gur-e-Khar stood in his track;", "Her foal had gone ahead; she lingered back."]}, {"id": "D10.18.21", "lines": ["He struck the beast and clove it clean in two;", "His blade cut through her middle, straight and true."]}, {"id": "D10.18.22", "lines": ["The chiefs and sworded nobles reached his side,", "And saw that stroke with wonder, awe, and pride."]}, {"id": "D10.18.23", "lines": ["A sage exclaimed, “What swordsmanship is here!", "May evil never cross this monarch’s sphere."]}, {"id": "D10.18.24", "lines": ["No likeness has he but the moon on high;", "All chiefs beneath his royal Fortune lie."]}, {"id": "D10.18.25", "lines": ["The heavens bow beneath his scimitar,", "And lower than his arrow flies each star.”"]}, {"id": "D10.18.26", "lines": ["The troops behind him cleared the plain of game;", "Then Bahram gave command to mark his name."]}, {"id": "D10.18.27", "lines": ["He bade them fashion rings of shining gold,", "And grave his royal name for all to hold."]}, {"id": "D10.18.28", "lines": ["He ringed the creatures’ ears and let them go,", "That all the world his royal name might know."]}, {"id": "D10.18.29", "lines": ["Three hundred beasts he loosed to range the waste,", "Each ringed, as royal quarry to be chased."]}, {"id": "D10.18.30", "lines": ["A herald rode among the troops to say:", "“Give all these Gur-e-Khars as gifts away."]}, {"id": "D10.18.31", "lines": ["Let merchants take them freely from the plain;", "Let no man sell his quarry here for gain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.18.32", "lines": ["From Barkooh and from chiefs of Jaz they brought", "Abundant furs and brocades richly wrought."]}, {"id": "D10.18.33", "lines": ["He took their gifts and bade their taxes cease;", "Though they could pay, he granted them release."]}, {"id": "D10.18.34", "lines": ["Their poor and laborers grew rich thereby,", "Through royal bounty poured beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D10.18.35", "lines": ["Many gained crowns and thrones by his command;", "He came back from the chase into the land."]}, {"id": "D10.18.36", "lines": ["A week he passed in mirth among his men,", "Then held his open court and judged again."]}, {"id": "D10.18.37", "lines": ["It was his custom on the riding ground", "To sit where troops and suppliants gathered round."]}, {"id": "D10.18.38", "lines": ["A herald sought the needy everywhere,", "And voiced the king’s decree for all to share:"]}, {"id": "D10.18.39", "lines": ["“You seekers of your rights,” the herald cried,", "“From men, seek God, and let Him be your guide."]}, {"id": "D10.18.40", "lines": ["If through our rule you lie in pain tonight,", "Or have no share of wealth, come claim your right."]}, {"id": "D10.18.41", "lines": ["Come to the king upon the riding ground;", "Perhaps your Fortune shall be newly found."]}, {"id": "D10.18.42", "lines": ["If one is old, past work, and weak with years,", "Or young but crippled by disease and tears,"]}, {"id": "D10.18.43", "lines": ["If any of the people lives in debt,", "And whom relentless creditors beset,"]}, {"id": "D10.18.44", "lines": ["If children have been left without a sire,", "Yet will not beg although their needs are dire,"]}, {"id": "D10.18.45", "lines": ["Or if their mothers hide their need from sight,", "And bear their secret poverty at night,"]}, {"id": "D10.18.46", "lines": ["Or if some wealthy man has died and left", "Young children by a faithless guard bereft,"]}, {"id": "D10.18.47", "lines": ["An overseer who sets his heart on gold,", "Whom neither shame nor fear of God can hold,"]}, {"id": "D10.18.48", "lines": ["Conceal from me no matter of this kind;", "I will not have the poor conceal their mind."]}, {"id": "D10.18.49", "lines": ["I will make poor men wealthy, free from fear,", "And those who hide their need may seek me here."]}, {"id": "D10.18.50", "lines": ["The straying I will lead to Faith, and save", "The poor from debts that drag them toward the grave."]}, {"id": "D10.18.51", "lines": ["If officers of mine commit a wrong,", "And rob the fatherless though weak or strong,"]}, {"id": "D10.18.52", "lines": ["I will hang the unjust alive for all", "To see how those who wrong the helpless fall.”"]}, {"id": "D10.18.53", "lines": ["Then royal treasure flowed through open doors;", "The poor grew wealthy from the royal stores."]}, {"id": "D10.18.54", "lines": ["The Shah, grown wise, left hunting grounds behind,", "And reached Baghdad with gladness in his mind."]}, {"id": "D10.18.55", "lines": ["The haughty chiefs came forth before his sight,", "Both kin and strangers, men of lordly might."]}, {"id": "D10.18.56", "lines": ["He bade the army turn and ride away,", "And sought the palace where he meant to stay."]}, {"id": "D10.18.57", "lines": ["They decked the golden bower for delight;", "The handmaids called for musk and wine that night."]}, {"id": "D10.18.58", "lines": ["The idols sang and made their harp strings ring;", "They cleared the hall of strangers for the king."]}, {"id": "D10.18.59", "lines": ["With harp and wine and pipe and singing sound,", "Their music seemed to bless the air around."]}, {"id": "D10.18.60", "lines": ["In every chamber, dancers every night", "Performed to keep the monarch’s spirit bright."]}, {"id": "D10.18.61", "lines": ["Two weeks he spent in mirth and opened wide", "His treasury, and all who came supplied."]}, {"id": "D10.18.62", "lines": ["He scattered largess, then to Istakhr rode,", "And crowned himself: the jeweled circlet glowed."]}, {"id": "D10.18.63", "lines": ["He unlocked Kharrad’s bower, and richly dressed", "The idols’ chambers, furnished with the best."]}, {"id": "D10.18.64", "lines": ["He gave the women dinars from his store,", "Then found their furnishings required more."]}, {"id": "D10.18.65", "lines": ["If one lacked crown or throne of ivory white,", "The monarch grumbled at that sorry sight."]}, {"id": "D10.18.66", "lines": ["He bit his lip at Rozbeh in disdain,", "And spoke of tribute from Khazar’s domain."]}, {"id": "D10.18.67", "lines": ["“The tribute paid by Rum and Khazar’s land", "I give these women by my own command."]}, {"id": "D10.18.68", "lines": ["Bring ass-loads of dinars; let taxes flow", "From Rey and Isfahan, the sums they owe."]}, {"id": "D10.18.69", "lines": ["Such poor provision in the women’s wing", "Is never worthy of Iran’s great king.”"]}, {"id": "D10.18.70", "lines": ["They spread brocade and raised new tax in lands,", "And gathered wealth through royal officers’ hands."]}, {"id": "D10.18.71", "lines": ["Thus for a while he lived in ease and peace,", "And felt the toil and strife of warfare cease."]}, {"id": "D10.18.72", "lines": ["His days were spent in hunting and in feast;", "His joy with every passing day increased."]}, {"id": "D10.19.1", "lines": ["Soon through Hind and Rum the tidings ran,", "Through Chin, Turan, and every settled span:"]}, {"id": "D10.19.2", "lines": ["“The heart of Shah Bahram is given to sport;", "He heeds no man and keeps no guarded court."]}, {"id": "D10.19.3", "lines": ["He has no outposts and no sentries near;", "No Pahlevans are posted on the frontier."]}, {"id": "D10.19.4", "lines": ["For love of sport he lets all matters drift,", "And knows no more where worldly dangers shift.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.5", "lines": ["When Chin’s ambitious Khan these tidings heard,", "He paid his troops, and all his army stirred."]}, {"id": "D10.19.6", "lines": ["From Chin and from Khutan he raised a force,", "And marched on Iran by the eastern course."]}, {"id": "D10.19.7", "lines": ["No one gave thought to Bahram’s strength that day;", "And Caesar, too, brought troops into array."]}, {"id": "D10.19.8", "lines": ["When Iran heard of Caesar’s troops arrayed,", "And Chin’s advancing troops, all grew afraid."]}, {"id": "D10.19.9", "lines": ["Then all the chieftains, gathered from the land,", "Came full of wrath before Bahram’s command."]}, {"id": "D10.19.10", "lines": ["With rage and bitterness they bluntly cried,", "“Your glorious Fortune turns its face aside."]}, {"id": "D10.19.11", "lines": ["The heads of kings should be intent on war;", "Your heart seeks feast and chase forevermore."]}, {"id": "D10.19.12", "lines": ["The crown and throne are worthless in your eyes;", "Iran, the troops, and treasure you despise.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.13", "lines": ["The ruler answered those who showed the way,", "The Mobadan gathered round in dismay:"]}, {"id": "D10.19.14", "lines": ["“My helper is Yazdan whose hand has wrought", "The world, more wise than all the sages taught."]}, {"id": "D10.19.15", "lines": ["By that great Sovereign’s power, I shall hold", "Iran secure against the wolves grown bold."]}, {"id": "D10.19.16", "lines": ["With Fortune, troops, the sword, and wealth to spend,", "I will bring this land’s suffering to an end.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.17", "lines": ["He went on with his sport; the nobles wept,", "Their eyes ran blood while he his pleasures kept."]}, {"id": "D10.19.18", "lines": ["The people said, “His conduct breeds dismay;", "The hearts of righteous men will turn away.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.19", "lines": ["Yet Bahram’s heart stayed vigilant and wise,", "Though inward trouble darkened both his eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.19.20", "lines": ["In secret he prepared his men and gear,", "While none on earth could make his purpose clear."]}, {"id": "D10.19.21", "lines": ["All Iran looked upon him in dismay;", "Their hearts were torn by what they saw each day."]}, {"id": "D10.19.22", "lines": ["They lost all hope of him; in their despair,", "Their lives and households scarcely claimed their care."]}, {"id": "D10.19.23", "lines": ["Then word arrived that Chin’s invading band", "Had crossed the border into Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "D10.19.24", "lines": ["He called high-minded Gostaham to court,", "And spoke of Khan and troops in grave report."]}, {"id": "D10.19.25", "lines": ["This Gostaham, chief Pahlevan in fight,", "A minister, took joy in battle’s might."]}, {"id": "D10.19.26", "lines": ["Then Mehr Pirooz Kharzad came to stand", "With Mehr Barzin Farhad at his command."]}, {"id": "D10.19.27", "lines": ["Both Bahram and Pirooz joined in the roll,", "With Rohham and Khazarvan, stout of soul."]}, {"id": "D10.19.28", "lines": ["Two rulers came, their power widely known,", "One lord of Rey, one Gilan called his own."]}, {"id": "D10.19.29", "lines": ["Their hearts grew glad upon the battle day;", "Dad Barzin ruled; Zabul would all obey."]}, {"id": "D10.19.30", "lines": ["Gharan and Burzmehr joined the gathered band;", "Grim Rad Barzin came too at his command."]}, {"id": "D10.19.31", "lines": ["Six thousand men he chose, all tried in war,", "Whose wisdom matched the strength of arms they bore."]}, {"id": "D10.19.32", "lines": ["To Narsi, brother of the Shah, secure", "In faith and power, loyal, just, and pure,"]}, {"id": "D10.19.33", "lines": ["He gave the Pahlevans, the throne and crown,", "To guard the treasury and realm’s renown."]}, {"id": "D10.19.34", "lines": ["Narsi, gracious, faithful, noble, wise,", "Accepted charge beneath the watchful skies."]}, {"id": "D10.19.35", "lines": ["He led his chosen soldiers on their way", "To Azar Abadagan without delay."]}, {"id": "D10.19.36", "lines": ["Since Bahram took from Pars so small a band,", "Both great and common folk misread his hand."]}, {"id": "D10.19.37", "lines": ["They thought, “Shah Bahram flees the coming fight,", "And seeks Azargashasp in secret flight.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.38", "lines": ["When Bahram turned his face toward sacred Fire,", "An envoy came from Caesar, grave and dire."]}, {"id": "D10.19.39", "lines": ["Narsi received the Roman with due grace,", "And lodged him nobly in the palace place."]}, {"id": "D10.19.40", "lines": ["The troops sought out the high Mobad, to learn", "The Shah’s intent, and voice their grave concern."]}, {"id": "D10.19.41", "lines": ["They said, “He left his throne; our Fortune fell.", "Why does he not store wealth as kings know well?"]}, {"id": "D10.19.42", "lines": ["He pours out gold on every town and farm,", "And lets his youth slip by, and sees no harm."]}, {"id": "D10.19.43", "lines": ["The townsfolk and the soldiers have dispersed;", "Each grasps at power, and serves himself the first.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.44", "lines": ["At length, when every argument was spent,", "They planned an embassy with this intent:"]}, {"id": "D10.19.45", "lines": ["“Send someone to the Khan of Chin,” they said,", "“Before his plundering troops bring further dread."]}, {"id": "D10.19.46", "lines": ["Perhaps our land may yet endure this blow,", "Though he who ruled it now has fled the foe.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.47", "lines": ["Narsi replied, “This counsel leads to shame;", "The world could scarcely cleanse so foul a name."]}, {"id": "D10.19.48", "lines": ["Shall I ask quarter of Chin’s Khan, and yield", "In shame before we even take the field?"]}, {"id": "D10.19.49", "lines": ["My men and elephants will clothe the plain;", "Strong fighters, arms, and treasure still remain."]}, {"id": "D10.19.50", "lines": ["Their khanjars could raise dust from fire; why fear", "Because the Shah took few and left us here?"]}, {"id": "D10.19.51", "lines": ["Why have your thoughts turned evil in your breast?", "Think ill, and ill will bring your homes no rest.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.52", "lines": ["The Iranians heard, but answered in dismay,", "“With very few, Shah Bahram rode away."]}, {"id": "D10.19.53", "lines": ["Must we not yield our hearts to grief and fear,", "When Chin’s great Khan in arms is drawing near?"]}, {"id": "D10.19.54", "lines": ["Our land will lose both scent and hue in war;", "The foe will trample field and town and store."]}, {"id": "D10.19.55", "lines": ["They will crush troops and Narsi where they stand;", "We must save life and home throughout the land.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.56", "lines": ["A learned Mobad, sincere and pure of heart,", "Was skilled in counsel and the speaker’s art."]}, {"id": "D10.19.57", "lines": ["Humayi was the man the people chose", "To bear their words before the eastern foes."]}, {"id": "D10.19.58", "lines": ["They penned the Khan a craven letter, fraught", "With words of servile fear and anxious thought."]}, {"id": "D10.19.59", "lines": ["“Your slaves are we; we bow before your will,", "And seek your pleasure, loyal, humble still."]}, {"id": "D10.19.60", "lines": ["We send the goods that grow in Iran’s plain,", "With gifts and tribute, so that peace may reign."]}, {"id": "D10.19.61", "lines": ["We bring our tribute, for we have no power", "To stand against the Turks in battle’s hour.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.62", "lines": ["Thus from Iran the blessed Humayi went,", "With chosen nobles on their mission bent."]}, {"id": "D10.19.63", "lines": ["He gave the Khan their message, word by word;", "Relief and pride were stirred by what he heard."]}, {"id": "D10.19.64", "lines": ["Humayi spoke of Bahram’s flight in fear,", "His troops in swift retreat as foes drew near."]}, {"id": "D10.19.65", "lines": ["The noble Khan, elated, proud, and grand,", "Addressed the Turkish chiefs at his command:"]}, {"id": "D10.19.66", "lines": ["“We saddled heaven!” so the Khan exclaimed;", "“The turning sky is ours, bridled and tamed."]}, {"id": "D10.19.67", "lines": ["Who ever took Iran without a fight,", "As we have done through patience and foresight?”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.68", "lines": ["The Khan gave gifts of worth in rich array,", "With Chinese silver, gold dinars that day."]}, {"id": "D10.19.69", "lines": ["He wrote, “May wisdom walk beside the pure;", "I grant the pact that honest men assure."]}, {"id": "D10.19.70", "lines": ["When with my troops I reach Marv, I will bring", "The land the colors of a pheasant’s wing."]}, {"id": "D10.19.71", "lines": ["Through justice, wisdom, fragrance in my reign,", "Then milk shall flow with water on the plain."]}, {"id": "D10.19.72", "lines": ["I shall await Iran’s appointed gold,", "And tribute from its chiefs, its lions bold."]}, {"id": "D10.19.73", "lines": ["I shall come to Marv and there abide,", "Lest marching troops consume the countryside.”"]}, {"id": "D10.19.74", "lines": ["The envoy hurried back at eager pace,", "And bore the answer through Iran’s broad space."]}, {"id": "D10.19.75", "lines": ["Then Chin’s lord brought his troops to Marv, and high", "The riders’ dust rose black against the sky."]}, {"id": "D10.19.76", "lines": ["When he had rested, feasting filled his thought;", "No one recalled Bahram or what he wrought."]}, {"id": "D10.19.77", "lines": ["At Marv no rest or sleep by night was found,", "For harp and lyre poured out continual sound."]}, {"id": "D10.19.78", "lines": ["The troops lay scattered, none assigned to guard;", "No sentry watched the road or outer yard."]}, {"id": "D10.19.79", "lines": ["No one expected war or sudden fray;", "All lived in wine and sport, in feast and play."]}, {"id": "D10.19.80", "lines": ["The Khan watched for their tribute, but delay", "Inflamed his heart with anger day by day."]}, {"id": "D10.19.81", "lines": ["But Bahram kept his watch against the foe,", "To guard his troops from any sudden blow."]}, {"id": "D10.19.82", "lines": ["His spies roamed wide; their vigil never slept,", "While he in readiness his army kept."]}, {"id": "D10.20.1", "lines": ["The news reached Bahram: Marv was where they lay,", "The Khan and all his troops in vast array."]}, {"id": "D10.20.2", "lines": ["From Azargashasp he led his men away,", "No baggage train to hinder or delay."]}, {"id": "D10.20.3", "lines": ["Each man had two strong horses for the road;", "Their Roman helms above their armor showed."]}, {"id": "D10.20.4", "lines": ["In cuirasses, their weapons all complete,", "They hurried like the wind on tireless feet."]}, {"id": "D10.20.5", "lines": ["From Ardabil to Amol rode the force,", "Like mountain torrents rushing on their course."]}, {"id": "D10.20.6", "lines": ["Then onward through the Gorgan lands he passed,", "And bore his nobles’ hardship to the last."]}, {"id": "D10.20.7", "lines": ["He reached the town of Nisa with his men;", "An upright guide went on before them then."]}, {"id": "D10.20.8", "lines": ["Through mountains, waterless and trackless ground,", "Through night and far into the day they wound."]}, {"id": "D10.20.9", "lines": ["He posted lookouts through the light of day,", "And guards by night to watch along the way."]}, {"id": "D10.20.10", "lines": ["No pheasant flew as fast as he drew near", "To Marv; a scout brought news for him to hear:"]}, {"id": "D10.20.11", "lines": ["“The Khan is heedless of affairs,” he said;", "“The hunt at Kashmihan fills all his head."]}, {"id": "D10.20.12", "lines": ["He thinks of nothing else by night or day;", "His counselor is Ahriman, they say.”"]}, {"id": "D10.20.13", "lines": ["Bahram rejoiced to hear the runner’s word;", "His weariness was gone, his spirit stirred."]}, {"id": "D10.20.14", "lines": ["One day he rested there, till man and steed", "Were fresh again for sudden battle’s need."]}, {"id": "D10.20.15", "lines": ["Then, rested, to Kashmihan’s field he pressed;", "At dawn the sun rose crowned above the crest."]}, {"id": "D10.20.16", "lines": ["The karnays filled each ear with cries of might;", "And colored banners filled each warrior’s sight."]}, {"id": "D10.20.17", "lines": ["The uproar rose from all the hunting ground;", "Both king and army heard the mighty sound."]}, {"id": "D10.20.18", "lines": ["The uproar split the lion’s ears; the soil", "Ran red with blood amid the battle’s toil."]}, {"id": "D10.20.19", "lines": ["One might have said, “The clouds are hailing stone,”", "Or, “From the moon a rain of blood is thrown.”"]}, {"id": "D10.20.20", "lines": ["Roused from his hunt, the Khan was caught that day;", "Khazarvan took him captive in the fray."]}, {"id": "D10.20.21", "lines": ["Three hundred noble chiefs from Chin were caught,", "Then bound to saddles and as captives brought."]}, {"id": "D10.20.22", "lines": ["From Kashmihan to Marv the Shah pressed on,", "His horses lean, their flesh by hard rides gone."]}, {"id": "D10.20.23", "lines": ["At Marv they slew the men of Chin they found;", "He chased those fleeing from the killing ground."]}, {"id": "D10.20.24", "lines": ["For thirty farsang he pursued their flight;", "Behind him Gharan followed through the fight."]}, {"id": "D10.20.25", "lines": ["Back at the hunting ground, he shared the spoil", "Among the troops who bore the battle’s toil."]}, {"id": "D10.20.26", "lines": ["Victorious over Chin, he raised his face,", "And knew all his success was Heaven’s grace."]}, {"id": "D10.20.27", "lines": ["God grants both good and evil strength to rise,", "And rules the sun and moon within the skies."]}, {"id": "D10.21.1", "lines": ["At Marv, Bahram Goor rested men and horse,", "Till both were fresh and strong to hold their course."]}, {"id": "D10.21.2", "lines": ["He chose Bukhara for his next attack,", "And set his feet upon the warlike track."]}, {"id": "D10.21.3", "lines": ["One day and night brought Amuy to his sight;", "He sought no chase, but only war and fight."]}, {"id": "D10.21.4", "lines": ["At night’s first watch he crossed the river wide,", "Then Farab’s desert stretched on every side."]}, {"id": "D10.21.5", "lines": ["When air grew golden with the rising sun,", "And lapis night from heaven’s robe had run,"]}, {"id": "D10.21.6", "lines": ["The dust grew dark as any falcon’s wing;", "Through Mai and Morgh advanced the conquering king."]}, {"id": "D10.21.7", "lines": ["He broke the Turkish army in his ire;", "Their fields and country blazed with spreading fire."]}, {"id": "D10.21.8", "lines": ["Stars sought the moon’s skirts in that headlong flight;", "Fathers trod over sons amid their fright."]}, {"id": "D10.21.9", "lines": ["The Turkish chieftains, captains in the war,", "Came humbly, all on foot, from battle’s roar."]}, {"id": "D10.21.10", "lines": ["With humbled hearts before Bahram they cried,", "“O Shah, whose Fortune walks at heaven’s side,"]}, {"id": "D10.21.11", "lines": ["O mighty one, first noble of the earth,", "Above all other lords in rank and worth,"]}, {"id": "D10.21.12", "lines": ["The Khan betrayed the covenant he made;", "Let not the guiltless perish by the blade."]}, {"id": "D10.21.13", "lines": ["Such tyranny does not become the great;", "Demand our tribute, but avert our fate."]}, {"id": "D10.21.14", "lines": ["Why strike the heads of those who did no wrong?", "Our tribute is your due, O king most strong."]}, {"id": "D10.21.15", "lines": ["Our women and our men now bow to you;", "We fight for you; our service shall be true.”"]}, {"id": "D10.21.16", "lines": ["The Shah felt pity for their grief and cries;", "With wisdom’s hand he sewed up anger’s eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.21.17", "lines": ["In thought, that man of God restrained his bands,", "And checked the bloodshed raging through the lands."]}, {"id": "D10.21.18", "lines": ["When royal mercy soothed their fear and dread,", "Their hearts grew calm, and all their turmoil fled."]}, {"id": "D10.21.19", "lines": ["The chief of chiefs approached, his pledge made clear:", "They would pay heavy tribute every year."]}, {"id": "D10.21.20", "lines": ["He took the tribute they agreed to pay,", "And hostages before he turned away."]}, {"id": "D10.21.21", "lines": ["To Farab he returned in cheerful guise,", "A smile upon his lips, light in his eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.21.22", "lines": ["He paused and let his troops rest there a week,", "Then called the potentates of Chin to speak."]}, {"id": "D10.21.23", "lines": ["He raised a pillar built of plastered stone,", "To mark the frontier by his will alone."]}, {"id": "D10.21.24", "lines": ["To cross to Iran, Turks and Khalaj would need", "The Shah’s consent before they could proceed."]}, {"id": "D10.21.25", "lines": ["He made the Jihun stand as boundary line,", "The realm’s clear limit by his royal sign."]}, {"id": "D10.21.26", "lines": ["Among the troops was Shahra, wise in fame,", "A man of rank, success, and honored name."]}, {"id": "D10.21.27", "lines": ["He made him king of Turan; at its height,", "His throne was crowned with moonlight, gleaming bright."]}, {"id": "D10.21.28", "lines": ["When Shahra took the silver seat of state,", "His gorz hung at his waist; his gifts were great."]}, {"id": "D10.21.29", "lines": ["He set the golden crown upon his head;", "Through all Turan the joy of crowning spread."]}, {"id": "D10.22.1", "lines": ["When Turan’s affairs had reached their settled end,", "The Shah’s heart eased; his troubled mind could mend."]}, {"id": "D10.22.2", "lines": ["He wrote Narsi of all the Turkish war,", "And all his troops had done, and all they bore."]}, {"id": "D10.22.3", "lines": ["It opened thus: “I offer humble praise", "To God, who rules the worlds through all their days;"]}, {"id": "D10.22.4", "lines": ["Yazdan of victory, of sovereign might,", "Of Saturn, Mars, and Moon’s mysterious light;"]}, {"id": "D10.22.5", "lines": ["The great and low are under His command;", "Whatever comes is subject to His hand."]}, {"id": "D10.22.6", "lines": ["From far Chin’s borders now I send this scroll", "To Narsi, brother faithful, heart and soul."]}, {"id": "D10.22.7", "lines": ["This letter, penned on painted silk, I seal", "For all our chiefs and for the common weal."]}, {"id": "D10.22.8", "lines": ["Those absent when we faced the Khan in fight", "Must hear from those who witnessed every sight."]}, {"id": "D10.22.9", "lines": ["His army was so vast, one might have said", "Its dust had smeared the sky with pitch outspread."]}, {"id": "D10.22.10", "lines": ["The ground became a sea of blood and dead;", "His evil Fortune failed, his glory fled."]}, {"id": "D10.22.11", "lines": ["The turning sky grew weary of his reign;", "The Khan was taken fighting on the plain."]}, {"id": "D10.22.12", "lines": ["I bring him bound, with blood that fills his eyes;", "Upon a camel, sick at heart, he lies."]}, {"id": "D10.22.13", "lines": ["The necks of all the proud are bent in fear;", "Their tongues are mild, their hearts are burned and sere."]}, {"id": "D10.22.14", "lines": ["Those who were enemies now tribute pay;", "The erring men have turned toward the way."]}, {"id": "D10.22.15", "lines": ["My troops and I, whom friends now long to greet,", "Shall turn back home, with victory complete.”"]}, {"id": "D10.22.16", "lines": ["The camels, wind-foot, foaming as they passed,", "Rushed onward like the roaring tempest’s blast."]}, {"id": "D10.22.17", "lines": ["When that swift letter reached Narsi’s hand,", "He shared his joy with all across the land."]}, {"id": "D10.22.18", "lines": ["The high Mobad and warriors gathered near;", "Through all Iran rose cries of joy and cheer."]}, {"id": "D10.22.19", "lines": ["All listened closely to the triumph tale;", "The guilty nobles grew ashamed and pale."]}, {"id": "D10.22.20", "lines": ["Their fault before the Shah weighed on each breast;", "They sought the Mobad, humbled and distressed."]}, {"id": "D10.22.21", "lines": ["They said, “The Div and evil counsel led", "Our feet from wisdom where dark falsehood spread."]}, {"id": "D10.22.22", "lines": ["We strayed in blindness from the royal way;", "Now shame has turned us back to truth today."]}, {"id": "D10.22.23", "lines": ["With such a force, who could anticipate", "That God Himself would open heaven’s gate?"]}, {"id": "D10.22.24", "lines": ["It is a marvel past all prudent thought,", "Beyond what learned men and sages wrought."]}, {"id": "D10.22.25", "lines": ["In your reply, recounting foul and fair,", "Include our plea: ask him our lives to spare."]}, {"id": "D10.22.26", "lines": ["Although the chiefs have sinned and broken trust,", "The glorious Shah is generous and just.”"]}, {"id": "D10.22.27", "lines": ["Narsi agreed and said, “So will I write,", "To free the Shah’s heart from revenge and spite.”"]}, {"id": "D10.22.28", "lines": ["At once he wrote an answer to the king,", "Disclosing fair and foul in everything."]}, {"id": "D10.22.29", "lines": ["He said, “Iran’s great men, oppressed by fear,", "For home, child, wealth, and country gathered here."]}, {"id": "D10.22.30", "lines": ["They sought protection from Chin’s Khan, when trust", "In Shah and realm had crumbled into dust."]}, {"id": "D10.22.31", "lines": ["It was not enmity, offense, or strife;", "No other king was dearer to their life."]}, {"id": "D10.22.32", "lines": ["Now if the conquering king of kings forgives,", "He makes their dark night day, and each heart lives."]}, {"id": "D10.22.33", "lines": ["They chose me advocate to plead their case,", "And ask that you forgive them to their face.”"]}, {"id": "D10.22.34", "lines": ["A worthy Mobad, Burzmehr called by name,", "Went gladly on the mission when it came."]}, {"id": "D10.22.35", "lines": ["He reached the monarch and, as he was told,", "Recounted every matter, new and old."]}, {"id": "D10.22.36", "lines": ["The Shah received his message with content;", "His anger cooled, his wrath at last was spent."]}, {"id": "D10.22.37", "lines": ["From Chaghan, Khatlan, Balkh, and Bukhara then,", "The chieftains came with tribute, gifts, and men."]}, {"id": "D10.22.38", "lines": ["Before the Fire’s worshipper they bowed;", "With barsom, Gharchi Mobadan joined the crowd."]}, {"id": "D10.22.39", "lines": ["From year to year, all those with wealth to bring", "Came bearing tax and tribute to the king."]}, {"id": "D10.22.40", "lines": ["When fire-temple and feast had been arrayed", "For New Year’s Day and Sadeh’s bright parade,"]}, {"id": "D10.22.41", "lines": ["The Shah approached fair Azar Abadagan,", "With nobles and the chosen men of Iran."]}, {"id": "D10.22.42", "lines": ["At Azargashasp, before the sacred blaze,", "The Mobadan raised hymns in solemn praise."]}, {"id": "D10.22.43", "lines": ["He gave the temple servants gifts of pride,", "And toward Istakhr began his homeward ride."]}, {"id": "D10.22.44", "lines": ["That city was the glory of the kings,", "Where fame and sovereign Fortune spread their wings."]}, {"id": "D10.22.45", "lines": ["From ox-hide sacks and sheepskins borne before,", "Upon the elephants he scattered store."]}, {"id": "D10.22.46", "lines": ["Full many a heavy qintar’s weight was weighed,", "Of gold and silver for the crowd displayed."]}, {"id": "D10.22.47", "lines": ["Part was in silver, part in gold dinars,", "Bright coin beneath auspicious turning stars."]}, {"id": "D10.22.48", "lines": ["He brought out leather skins and spread them wide;", "Then poured the silver on them, gratified."]}, {"id": "D10.22.49", "lines": ["If, traveling, he saw a broken bridge,", "Or caravanserai by road or ridge,"]}, {"id": "D10.22.50", "lines": ["His officers received his clear command:", "Repair them from the treasury of the land."]}, {"id": "D10.22.51", "lines": ["He laid on no one hardship for the deed;", "The Shah’s own wealth would answer public need."]}, {"id": "D10.22.52", "lines": ["On poor folk and on workers earning bread,", "He lavished dirhams where their need had spread."]}, {"id": "D10.22.53", "lines": ["For widows and for orphans in their grief,", "He weighed out silver, granting them relief."]}, {"id": "D10.22.54", "lines": ["To those too old for work or battle’s call,", "He gave support and raised the frail from fall."]}, {"id": "D10.22.55", "lines": ["On noble-born men passed by wealthy eyes,", "He lavished wealth and helped their fortunes rise."]}, {"id": "D10.22.56", "lines": ["To travelers who hid their want from view,", "He gave with open hands to see them through."]}, {"id": "D10.22.57", "lines": ["He gave a treasury to those in need,", "And looked for good to do in every deed."]}, {"id": "D10.22.58", "lines": ["All booty he divided with his men,", "And never dreamed of gathered riches then."]}, {"id": "D10.22.59", "lines": ["He called a pious Mobad to his side", "To bring the crown of Chin in all its pride."]}, {"id": "D10.22.60", "lines": ["They hung the Khan’s own crown, a radiant prize,", "In Azargashasp before the faithful’s eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.22.61", "lines": ["Then he departed to Tisfoon’s seat,", "Where Narsi dwelt with counselors discreet."]}, {"id": "D10.22.62", "lines": ["All chiefs and governors of Iran came", "To meet the Shah beneath the flags of fame."]}, {"id": "D10.22.63", "lines": ["When Narsi saw that crowned and royal head,", "He left his horse, awed by the banners spread."]}, {"id": "D10.22.64", "lines": ["With great men and Mobadan at his side,", "He bowed before Bahram in humbled pride."]}, {"id": "D10.22.65", "lines": ["Bahram bade him remount and held him long,", "Then took the golden throne amid the throng."]}, {"id": "D10.22.66", "lines": ["The chiefs stood girded in the monarch’s sight;", "He gave the needy wealth to ease their plight."]}, {"id": "D10.22.67", "lines": ["He opened prisons, freed sad hearts from pain,", "And filled the age with justice in his reign."]}, {"id": "D10.22.68", "lines": ["He held a feast, and gave each welcome guest", "A robe of honor at his own behest."]}, {"id": "D10.23.1", "lines": ["Upon the third day, when the nobles dined,", "A scribe was called and set where kings reclined."]}, {"id": "D10.23.2", "lines": ["When wine had warmed the monarch’s heart with cheer,", "He wrote with joy, his purpose bright and clear."]}, {"id": "D10.23.3", "lines": ["The letter praised the One whose knowledge blessed", "The cleansed soul, setting wisdom in the breast."]}, {"id": "D10.23.4", "lines": ["Bahram made wisdom his abiding friend,", "And strove through toil his kindness to extend."]}, {"id": "D10.23.5", "lines": ["He knew that every good from God had sprung,", "And sought the wisdom praised by every tongue."]}, {"id": "D10.23.6", "lines": ["He made the sages friends, and came to know", "That only justice makes true blessings flow."]}, {"id": "D10.23.7", "lines": ["He never knocked where evil keeps its gate,", "Nor bent his mind to malice, fraud, or hate."]}, {"id": "D10.23.8", "lines": ["“If any man complains of those who rule,", "Of chiefs or captains trained in war’s harsh school,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.9", "lines": ["The pit or gibbet waits for men so found,", "Or death, their bodies cast upon the ground."]}, {"id": "D10.23.10", "lines": ["Endeavor to make others’ burdens light,", "And bring the grieving heart release from night."]}, {"id": "D10.23.11", "lines": ["The world has stayed with none, nor will remain;", "Be just, offend no man, and ease his pain."]}, {"id": "D10.23.12", "lines": ["I am myself the pattern of my creed,", "And call all men to righteousness in deed."]}, {"id": "D10.23.13", "lines": ["For many armies came against my reign,", "While I went forth with little strength and train."]}, {"id": "D10.23.14", "lines": ["Yet those who once were enemies in war", "Are now my friends, and stand as foes no more."]}, {"id": "D10.23.15", "lines": ["One noble lord, the Khan of Chin, I bound,", "Who ruled with crown and signet, world-renowned."]}, {"id": "D10.23.16", "lines": ["I took him captive; Turkish fortune died,", "And holy God brought triumph to my side."]}, {"id": "D10.23.17", "lines": ["My foemen’s heads were humbled into dust;", "Let service be my work, my purpose just."]}, {"id": "D10.23.18", "lines": ["For seven years no tax shall weigh them down;", "No subject, peer, or dweller of the town."]}, {"id": "D10.23.19", "lines": ["I write in Pahlavi, that ancient speech,", "That chiefs and officers may learn and teach."]}, {"id": "D10.23.20", "lines": ["Let them uphold the righteous rule of old,", "And never seek to wrong for gain or gold."]}, {"id": "D10.23.21", "lines": ["Send me the names of all throughout your lands", "Who live in grief and want with empty hands."]}, {"id": "D10.23.22", "lines": ["I shall provide for each and ease his need;", "Let no one suffer want through wrongful greed."]}, {"id": "D10.23.23", "lines": ["And if there are some men of noble birth", "Who still recall their better days on earth,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.24", "lines": ["Relieve them too with treasure from your hoard,", "Till dignity at home is theirs restored."]}, {"id": "D10.23.25", "lines": ["Exalt the wise; let learned men arise,", "And set their counsel high before your eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.23.26", "lines": ["The debtors, empty-handed and distressed,", "Who meet with scorn and everywhere are pressed,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.27", "lines": ["Pay from my treasury the debts they owe,", "And let the records all their names now show."]}, {"id": "D10.23.28", "lines": ["Pray God to keep our hearts both firm and true", "To faith and custom in the things we do."]}, {"id": "D10.23.29", "lines": ["Rejoice in this command; protect the small;", "Be kind to those beneath you, one and all."]}, {"id": "D10.23.30", "lines": ["Do not despise your slaves; like you, they stand", "Before God’s judgment, subject to His hand."]}, {"id": "D10.23.31", "lines": ["Let those with means send children to be taught", "By teachers rich in knowledge and in thought."]}, {"id": "D10.23.32", "lines": ["Make rich their spirits with the wealth of lore,", "And crown their heads with wisdom evermore."]}, {"id": "D10.23.33", "lines": ["Keep hands far off from other people’s gain;", "Be free from fault, and let God guide your reign."]}, {"id": "D10.23.34", "lines": ["Be diligent; break not the pledge you swore,", "And root out evil till it lives no more."]}, {"id": "D10.23.35", "lines": ["Tear up its stumps, its suckers, and its roots,", "And gather no dark harvest from its shoots."]}, {"id": "D10.23.36", "lines": ["Make God your refuge; heed His word above,", "And pledge your souls as hostages to love."]}, {"id": "D10.23.37", "lines": ["Harm neither neighbors nor the men of weight,", "The nobles and the wealthy in the state."]}, {"id": "D10.23.38", "lines": ["Whoever, once obscure, begins to claim", "A mastery beyond his former name,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.39", "lines": ["Do not call such a man exalted now;", "His greatness soon to low estate shall bow."]}, {"id": "D10.23.40", "lines": ["All you with wealth, withhold not from the poor;", "Do right, seek holiness, and keep faith sure."]}, {"id": "D10.23.41", "lines": ["Break not the hearts and backs of those who plead;", "Misfortune follows every wrongful deed."]}, {"id": "D10.23.42", "lines": ["God’s grace attend that pure and noble soul,", "Whose warp and woof make human kindness whole.”"]}, {"id": "D10.23.43", "lines": ["The shining silk was rolled; with musk he wet", "His pen to write the heading he would set."]}, {"id": "D10.23.44", "lines": ["He dipped his pen and formed the heading clear:", "“The monarch of the world, to all who hear,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.45", "lines": ["The heart of justice, knowing good and ill,", "The lord of pardon, grace, and royal will,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.46", "lines": ["Bahram Goor, all-bounteous king of kings,", "Whose justice spreads beneath the heavens’ wings,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.47", "lines": ["To frontier lords and all beneath his rule,", "To wise and warlike chiefs of judgment cool.”"]}, {"id": "D10.23.48", "lines": ["Then runners, horsemen, cameleers made haste", "To bear the royal letter through the waste."]}, {"id": "D10.23.49", "lines": ["When every province, chief, and lord had heard,", "All praised the Shah and blessed his pious word."]}, {"id": "D10.23.50", "lines": ["They said, “Thanks be to God, whose will has crowned", "A pious monarch, just and world-renowned.”"]}, {"id": "D10.23.51", "lines": ["Then all the women, men, and children poured", "Across the open plain, a joyous horde."]}, {"id": "D10.23.52", "lines": ["In every land their quiet prayers would rise", "For that just king beneath the turning skies."]}, {"id": "D10.23.53", "lines": ["Then all prepared to feast and called for wine,", "With harps and minstrels in a glad design."]}, {"id": "D10.23.54", "lines": ["Half of the day they feasted in delight;", "The other half they labored until night."]}, {"id": "D10.23.55", "lines": ["When spring arrived, the heralds cried at dawn", "Before the court where royal signs were drawn:"]}, {"id": "D10.23.56", "lines": ["“Let those with substance eat and give away,", "And count their food a blessing every day."]}, {"id": "D10.23.57", "lines": ["Let all the poor come straight to treasury doors,", "And take their portion from the royal stores:"]}, {"id": "D10.23.58", "lines": ["Five weighed-out dirhams each shall now receive,", "With three full mans of old wine, when they leave,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.59", "lines": ["Wine bright as gold or pomegranate bloom,", "To lift the heart and sweeten every room.”"]}, {"id": "D10.23.60", "lines": ["The world made ready for delight and cheer;", "Through town and hamlet, joyful cries rang clear."]}, {"id": "D10.23.61", "lines": ["Two gold dinars bought each sweet willow wreath,", "While flowers bloomed in radiant light beneath."]}, {"id": "D10.23.62", "lines": ["One dirham bought a lone narcissus spray;", "No buyer grieved to pay that price that day."]}, {"id": "D10.23.63", "lines": ["The old grew young at heart in joy’s new light;", "The springs ran milk, their waters flowing white."]}, {"id": "D10.23.64", "lines": ["The Shah thanked God to see the world made glad,", "And spoke to Narsi of the farr he had:"]}, {"id": "D10.23.65", "lines": ["“Depart from here with signet ring and crown;", "Khorasan’s realm is yours in field and town."]}, {"id": "D10.23.66", "lines": ["Cause it to flourish; cheer our subjects’ hearts;", "Be just in every place and all your arts."]}, {"id": "D10.23.67", "lines": ["Within this passing world, let grasping cease;", "Let others live secure and be at peace."]}, {"id": "D10.23.68", "lines": ["Our father’s wrongs made him convulse and shake,", "As naked men in autumn’s chill would quake.”"]}, {"id": "D10.23.69", "lines": ["He had a robe of honor made, and drained", "His treasure-stores of all that they contained."]}, {"id": "D10.23.70", "lines": ["He said, “May God protect you on your way,", "And may the sun’s high throne be yours each day.”"]}, {"id": "D10.23.71", "lines": ["Two weeks the journey took; then Narsi came,", "And ruled Khorasan in his brother’s name."]}, {"id": "D10.23.72", "lines": ["A week had passed since Narsi left behind", "The court; the Shah, serene and clear of mind,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.73", "lines": ["Commanded that the high Mobad appear,", "With certain nobles summoned to draw near."]}, {"id": "D10.23.74", "lines": ["The Shah addressed him: “Caesar’s case drags on;", "His envoy waits, though many days are gone."]}, {"id": "D10.23.75", "lines": ["What sort of man is he? What place is right", "For him when weighed by wisdom’s searching sight?"]}, {"id": "D10.23.76", "lines": ["For wisdom sets the troubled spirit straight,", "And guides a man through fortune, rank, and fate.”"]}, {"id": "D10.23.77", "lines": ["The high Mobad replied, “Blessed be your reign,", "O Shah, whose farr preserves your royal gain."]}, {"id": "D10.23.78", "lines": ["He is advanced in years, discreet and wise,", "With modest bearing and discerning eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.23.79", "lines": ["His speech is good, his voice is soft in tone;", "In Plato’s school his learned mind was known."]}, {"id": "D10.23.80", "lines": ["He is both wise and learned, nobly born;", "He came from Rum with pride and lofty scorn;"]}, {"id": "D10.23.81", "lines": ["Now, like a winter snake, his vigor quails;", "His cheek is yellowed and his courage fails."]}, {"id": "D10.23.82", "lines": ["His servants look like sheep when hounds draw near", "Upon a hunting day, subdued by fear."]}, {"id": "D10.23.83", "lines": ["Now mild, now harsh, he looked on us with scorn,", "As though no worthy man here had been born.”"]}, {"id": "D10.23.84", "lines": ["Bahram Goor answered what the Mobad said:", "“God grants the crown and makes its glory spread."]}, {"id": "D10.23.85", "lines": ["If He has made my darkened fortune bright,", "And crowned my cause with victory and might,"]}, {"id": "D10.23.86", "lines": ["Yet Caesar too descends from royal seed,", "A mighty king, imperial in deed."]}, {"id": "D10.23.87", "lines": ["From Salm he springs, whom Fereydoon once crowned;", "In that descent his royal roots are found."]}, {"id": "D10.23.88", "lines": ["He acts with manly prudence, thinks things through,", "Nor turns to madness as the Khan would do."]}, {"id": "D10.23.89", "lines": ["At court we shall call Caesar’s envoy near,", "And learn if what he says is sound and clear."]}, {"id": "D10.23.90", "lines": ["Then I will send him home with honor shown,", "For I still need men’s service round my throne."]}, {"id": "D10.23.91", "lines": ["One serves in war and brings the troops to fight;", "One brings a golden crown for feast and rite."]}, {"id": "D10.23.92", "lines": ["I must acknowledge what these men are worth;", "Great men befriend the noble of the earth.”"]}, {"id": "D10.23.93", "lines": ["The Mobad praised him warmly: “May you live", "While heaven turns, with joy in all you give."]}, {"id": "D10.23.94", "lines": ["May good alone flow from your lips, and may", "The men of name on earth your will obey.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.1", "lines": ["Next day, when sunlight showed its golden crown,", "And rays streamed from the vaulted heavens down,"]}, {"id": "D10.24.2", "lines": ["The monarch of the world sat crowned at court,", "And bade the Roman come and make report."]}, {"id": "D10.24.3", "lines": ["That aged sage, experienced in speech,", "With measured mind and memory’s ample reach,"]}, {"id": "D10.24.4", "lines": ["Bowed, arms folded and head bent low, before", "The royal throne, then knelt upon the floor."]}, {"id": "D10.24.5", "lines": ["Bahram received him well and bade him sit,", "And set him on a turquoise throne most fit."]}, {"id": "D10.24.6", "lines": ["He said, “You have remained in this domain;", "Has gazing on this land become a strain?"]}, {"id": "D10.24.7", "lines": ["The war against the Khan, which came so near,", "Withheld the care I owed you, honored seer."]}, {"id": "D10.24.8", "lines": ["But now our case has changed, and you have stayed", "Beyond due bounds, by war and time delayed."]}, {"id": "D10.24.9", "lines": ["Speak now; whatever message you convey,", "We shall reply with counsel here today.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.10", "lines": ["The ancient envoy praised the king and said,", "“May earth and time still keep your crowned head."]}, {"id": "D10.24.11", "lines": ["Each wise king takes delight in what is heard", "From sages nearer God in thought and word."]}, {"id": "D10.24.12", "lines": ["Those bent on evil darken their own day;", "Your justice lights the world’s imperial way."]}, {"id": "D10.24.13", "lines": ["Among the chiefs of earth you stand as best,", "Its sovereign Shah, in every virtue blessed."]}, {"id": "D10.24.14", "lines": ["Your tongue is balance; gems of speech it sifts,", "Whose worth outweighs the gold of royal gifts."]}, {"id": "D10.24.15", "lines": ["In knowledge, counsel, sense, and farr you shine,", "And every conquering art has crowned your line."]}, {"id": "D10.24.16", "lines": ["You have pure wisdom and a holy mind,", "And rule with mastery of the highest kind."]}, {"id": "D10.24.17", "lines": ["I serve your servant, though from Rum I came;", "I bring you Caesar’s greeting in his name:"]}, {"id": "D10.24.18", "lines": ["‘May head and throne and crown secure remain,", "And Fortune guard you through your lasting reign.’"]}, {"id": "D10.24.19", "lines": ["And further, I am ordered by command", "To ask seven questions of your learned band.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.20", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Proceed; the honored prize", "Belongs to eloquence before the wise.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.21", "lines": ["He called the high Mobad and sages near;", "His lips grew cold at what he feared to hear."]}, {"id": "D10.24.22", "lines": ["“What hidden things,” he thought, “will Rum require?", "What seven riddles does this man desire?”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.23", "lines": ["The Mobad came with men of learned fame,", "Great masters versed in every branch and name."]}, {"id": "D10.24.24", "lines": ["The spokesman then revealed what Caesar sought,", "And put to him the questions he had brought:"]}, {"id": "D10.24.25", "lines": ["“What do you call ‘within,’ and what ‘without’?", "Explain these terms and leave no room for doubt."]}, {"id": "D10.24.26", "lines": ["What is above, and what below is found?", "What thing is lowly? What can know no bound?"]}, {"id": "D10.24.27", "lines": ["What thing bears many names in every land,", "Yet everywhere holds sway by its command?”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.28", "lines": ["The high Mobad replied, “Do not rush thought;", "Hold fast the path that understanding taught."]}, {"id": "D10.24.29", "lines": ["O man of wisdom, lend your careful ear;", "One answer makes the whole inquiry clear."]}, {"id": "D10.24.30", "lines": ["As for ‘without’ and ‘within,’ this is plain:", "Heaven is without; within, the air’s domain."]}, {"id": "D10.24.31", "lines": ["Above is God’s own sovereign farr and might,", "Whose marvels stand revealed before our sight."]}, {"id": "D10.24.32", "lines": ["God’s being knows no boundary or end;", "Through knowledge you may seek to comprehend."]}, {"id": "D10.24.33", "lines": ["Above is Paradise; beneath, Hell’s flame;", "Who fears not God has chosen guilt and shame."]}, {"id": "D10.24.34", "lines": ["Now for the thing with many names on earth,", "Whose power gives the rule of monarchs birth:"]}, {"id": "D10.24.35", "lines": ["Wisdom has many names, O ancient sage,", "And wisdom guides the monarch and the age."]}, {"id": "D10.24.36", "lines": ["One calls it love; another calls it trust;", "Without it, men cause pain and are unjust."]}, {"id": "D10.24.37", "lines": ["The eloquent call wisdom truthful speech;", "The fortunate, the cleverness they reach."]}, {"id": "D10.24.38", "lines": ["At times it is forbearance under strain,", "At times the guarded secrets we retain."]}, {"id": "D10.24.39", "lines": ["So various are the names that wisdom bears,", "They pass beyond the count that learning dares."]}, {"id": "D10.24.40", "lines": ["Know nothing stands above it in the end;", "It is chief good, protector, guide, and friend."]}, {"id": "D10.24.41", "lines": ["Through wisdom we seek mysteries concealed,", "Which to our eyes have never been revealed."]}, {"id": "D10.24.42", "lines": ["Now hear what may be called a lowly thing,", "And weigh the answer that my words will bring."]}, {"id": "D10.24.43", "lines": ["The stars that glitter in the vaulted sky", "Are more than sight can number from on high."]}, {"id": "D10.24.44", "lines": ["The heavens lie beyond our mortal scale,", "Measureless, where all reckonings fail."]}, {"id": "D10.24.45", "lines": ["What slight account can mortal reckoning show", "Of heaven’s count and all the years that flow?"]}, {"id": "D10.24.46", "lines": ["A man beholds an arrow in its flight,", "And marvels as it passes through his sight."]}, {"id": "D10.24.47", "lines": ["Yet you would count the stars that nightly gleam;", "What task more lowly could your mind esteem?"]}, {"id": "D10.24.48", "lines": ["This much I know; if more you wish to show,", "The Maker’s wisdom holds more than we know.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.49", "lines": ["When Caesar’s spokesman heard, he kissed the ground,", "And praised the Shah, whose farr was world-renowned."]}, {"id": "D10.24.50", "lines": ["He said, “Ask God no greater gift than this:", "The world is yours, with all its royal bliss."]}, {"id": "D10.24.51", "lines": ["The heads of all the great are in your hand;", "No king like you was dreamed in any land."]}, {"id": "D10.24.52", "lines": ["All high-born nobles praise your royal state,", "While your wise minister is wisdom’s gate."]}, {"id": "D10.24.53", "lines": ["In knowledge he outstrips the learned wise;", "The sages bow before his searching eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.24.54", "lines": ["All philosophers are slaves to him;", "Before his wisdom, every lamp grows dim.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.55", "lines": ["Bahram heard this and let his joy shine through;", "Within his heart, his merriment now grew."]}, {"id": "D10.24.56", "lines": ["Ten bags of dirhams from the royal store", "He gave the priest, with robes, a steed, and more."]}, {"id": "D10.24.57", "lines": ["Then Caesar’s envoy left the king that day,", "And to his lodging turned upon his way."]}, {"id": "D10.24.58", "lines": ["When sunlight spread its hand across the sky,", "The king of kings sat on his gold throne high."]}, {"id": "D10.24.59", "lines": ["The Roman envoy came to court again,", "The high Mobad beside him, with the men."]}, {"id": "D10.24.60", "lines": ["With joy before the king of kings they stood,", "Discussing many matters grave and good."]}, {"id": "D10.24.61", "lines": ["The high Mobad said, “Sage of honored name,", "What harm should set our grieving hearts aflame?"]}, {"id": "D10.24.62", "lines": ["What is so harmful that all hearts should weep?", "What loss brings grief too bitter and too deep?"]}, {"id": "D10.24.63", "lines": ["And what is useful to the world below,", "By which men rise in honor as they go?”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.64", "lines": ["The envoy said, “The wise are strong and great;", "The foolish sink beneath a ruined fate."]}, {"id": "D10.24.65", "lines": ["The body of the fool is worse than clay,", "Unworthy of the good that lights the day."]}, {"id": "D10.24.66", "lines": ["You spoke of foolishness and wisdom’s claim;", "I think my answer meets the question’s aim.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.67", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Think well and understand;", "Do not take fish from water onto land.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.68", "lines": ["The envoy said, “O man approved by all,", "One may cite sages when their precepts call."]}, {"id": "D10.24.69", "lines": ["But if you know another answer, speak;", "For knowledge lifts the fame that wise men seek.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.70", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Think deeply; let words rise", "From thought and mind before the tongue replies."]}, {"id": "D10.24.71", "lines": ["The death of him who did least harm brings pain", "And loss beyond all others we sustain."]}, {"id": "D10.24.72", "lines": ["Yet men may well rejoice when villains die,", "Though death is common under every sky."]}, {"id": "D10.24.73", "lines": ["This is true profit; that is bitter woe;", "Let wisdom judge the difference we should know.”"]}, {"id": "D10.24.74", "lines": ["The Roman gave assent to what he heard;", "He smiled, approving every measured word."]}, {"id": "D10.24.75", "lines": ["He bowed low to the Shah, and warmly spoke:", "“How richly blessed Iran, its land and folk!"]}, {"id": "D10.24.76", "lines": ["How blessed the people with a king like you,", "And such a Mobad, wise in all you do."]}, {"id": "D10.24.77", "lines": ["If you ask Caesar’s tribute, that is fair;", "Your sage commands the world with wisdom rare.”"]}, {"id": "D10.25.1", "lines": ["The envoy’s words made Bahram’s spirit sing;", "His heart grew fresh as blossoms in the spring."]}, {"id": "D10.25.2", "lines": ["The envoy left the presence of the king,", "And night arose beneath its sable wing."]}, {"id": "D10.25.3", "lines": ["Night spread its veil, with musk and amber spun,", "Its folds concealed the face of the bright sun."]}, {"id": "D10.25.4", "lines": ["The turning vault of heaven would not sleep,", "But roused the drowsing heads from slumber deep."]}, {"id": "D10.25.5", "lines": ["At dawn the sun poured forth its golden light;", "Bahram awoke from softly passing night."]}, {"id": "D10.25.6", "lines": ["The chamberlain unlocked the audience door;", "The king sat down on gold, as once before."]}, {"id": "D10.25.7", "lines": ["He ordered robes of honor to be made,", "And had the envoy summoned, well arrayed."]}, {"id": "D10.25.8", "lines": ["He gave him silver, gold, and horses, tacked", "With trappings; rich brocades in bundles packed."]}, {"id": "D10.25.9", "lines": ["Dinars, gems, musk, and spices he bestowed,", "Beyond the dreams that in the envoy glowed."]}, {"id": "D10.25.10", "lines": ["Then, free of Rum’s affairs, the Shah took heed", "Of all the matters that his troops would need."]}, {"id": "D10.25.11", "lines": ["By his command the high Mobad came through,", "With nobles gathered round, a chosen few."]}, {"id": "D10.25.12", "lines": ["The Shah apportioned lands among the brave,", "And dirhams, steeds, and signet rings he gave."]}, {"id": "D10.25.13", "lines": ["He gave the chiefs their headgear and their seat,", "With crowns and provinces, their rule complete."]}, {"id": "D10.25.14", "lines": ["He filled the world with justice; everyone", "Rejoiced in him and praised what he had done."]}, {"id": "D10.25.15", "lines": ["He spurned unjust men, gifts and warmth denied;", "Then spoke to the Mobadan at his side:"]}, {"id": "D10.25.16", "lines": ["“You worshipful, pure-hearted sages, mark:", "The world keeps many memories, bright and dark."]}, {"id": "D10.25.17", "lines": ["Of Shahs both just and unjust it can tell,", "Whose hands pursued the works of Heaven or Hell."]}, {"id": "D10.25.18", "lines": ["Those kings reached out in tyranny and greed;", "Their bodies lost all comfort through the deed."]}, {"id": "D10.25.19", "lines": ["The world was frightened by those men of blame;", "The hearts of all the good were split with shame."]}, {"id": "D10.25.20", "lines": ["All hands were stained by wrongful words and deeds,", "And none pursued the path where worship leads."]}, {"id": "D10.25.21", "lines": ["None ruled his wife or children in those days;", "The righteous grieved, and all men took Divs’ ways."]}, {"id": "D10.25.22", "lines": ["The Div’s work has prevailed in every part;", "Fear of almighty God left every heart."]}, {"id": "D10.25.23", "lines": ["The source of virtue and the hand of wrong,", "The gate of wisdom, sought by men lifelong,"]}, {"id": "D10.25.24", "lines": ["Are bound alike to kings of high estate;", "Both right and wrong from them originate."]}, {"id": "D10.25.25", "lines": ["My father stretched his hand toward unjust ways;", "He was not holy, wise, or fit for praise."]}, {"id": "D10.25.26", "lines": ["Do not find strange his acts: a rusting stain", "Had touched the shining steel of heart and brain."]}, {"id": "D10.25.27", "lines": ["Recall Jamshid and Kavus in their pride,", "Who sought the foul Div’s counsel as their guide."]}, {"id": "D10.25.28", "lines": ["My father followed through that darkening stream,", "And never cleansed his soul with wisdom’s gleam."]}, {"id": "D10.25.29", "lines": ["His subjects writhed beneath his harsh command;", "His cruelty slew many in the land."]}, {"id": "D10.25.30", "lines": ["Now he is gone; his evil name remains,", "And from no tongue a blessing he obtains."]}, {"id": "D10.25.31", "lines": ["Yet let our blessing on his soul descend;", "May hatred never make his spirit bend."]}, {"id": "D10.25.32", "lines": ["Now I am seated where he sat and reigned;", "His road to Paradise is surely gained."]}, {"id": "D10.25.33", "lines": ["I ask almighty God for strength to do", "In private and in public what is true:"]}, {"id": "D10.25.34", "lines": ["To treat my subjects well, with mercy just,", "And, pure in deed, make musk of earth’s dark dust."]}, {"id": "D10.25.35", "lines": ["So when my body into dust is cast,", "No victim pulls my skirt for wrongs long past."]}, {"id": "D10.25.36", "lines": ["You too must wear the robe of justice bright,", "With heart washed clean of every crooked spite."]}, {"id": "D10.25.37", "lines": ["For none is born but he must die one day,", "Iranian, Arab, Roman; mortal clay."]}, {"id": "D10.25.38", "lines": ["Death charges lion-like; before its claws,", "No neck withdraws, and none can break its laws."]}, {"id": "D10.25.39", "lines": ["It makes the rending lion into prey,", "Nor can the dragon’s body slip away."]}, {"id": "D10.25.40", "lines": ["Where are the heads and crowns of kings of kings?", "Where are the chiefs once praised for mighty things?"]}, {"id": "D10.25.41", "lines": ["Where are the riders, proud in rank and birth?", "I see no trace of them upon the earth."]}, {"id": "D10.25.42", "lines": ["Where are the fair ones who gave chiefs delight?", "Their cheeks are under shrouds and out of sight."]}, {"id": "D10.25.43", "lines": ["Know this: all those beneath the burial dust", "Are wed to earth; keep hands both clean and just."]}, {"id": "D10.25.44", "lines": ["Let none of us give evil ways command;", "By God, who placed the farr within my hand,"]}, {"id": "D10.25.45", "lines": ["Who gave me crown and kingship, rank and might,", "And raised my royal station to its height,"]}, {"id": "D10.25.46", "lines": ["If any officer, unjust and bold,", "Should wrong a man for earth one hand could hold,"]}, {"id": "D10.25.47", "lines": ["I will consume his body in the fire,", "Or hang him high to shame his dark desire."]}, {"id": "D10.25.48", "lines": ["If in night watches some thief steals away", "A poor man’s quilt, I will his loss repay."]}, {"id": "D10.25.49", "lines": ["I will supply brocade from store instead,", "And wash the mourner’s grief from heart and head."]}, {"id": "D10.25.50", "lines": ["If any sheep is taken from the fold", "By dark of night or snowstorm’s bitter cold,"]}, {"id": "D10.25.51", "lines": ["I will give in its place a noble steed,", "Nor ask for thanks when I have met the need."]}, {"id": "D10.25.52", "lines": ["If, fighting foes, a Pahlevan should bear", "A grievous wound that calls for healing care,"]}, {"id": "D10.25.53", "lines": ["I will send treasure for a year’s supply,", "And let no grief upon his children lie."]}, {"id": "D10.25.54", "lines": ["Praise then the Judge whose knowledge holds in view", "All good through endless ages, old and new."]}, {"id": "D10.25.55", "lines": ["Let none lay hand on water or on fire", "Save the wise Hirbad serving God’s desire."]}, {"id": "D10.25.56", "lines": ["Spare all draft oxen serving in the field,", "Unless, worn out, they have no more to yield."]}, {"id": "D10.25.57", "lines": ["Do not kill cows that still bring calves to birth,", "Lest all prosperity forsake the earth."]}, {"id": "D10.25.58", "lines": ["Deliberate in all things with men of lore,", "And break the hearts of youthful folk no more."]}, {"id": "D10.25.59", "lines": ["Avoid the drunkenness that shames old age;", "Such conduct stains the elder and the sage."]}, {"id": "D10.25.60", "lines": ["Keep far from judgments by which the Div sways;", "Seek not a feast upon your battle days."]}, {"id": "D10.25.61", "lines": ["If I demand their tribute, I disown", "Yazdan of all and this, my ivory throne."]}, {"id": "D10.25.62", "lines": ["Since Yazdegard, my father, ruled amiss,", "I sow the seeds of justice, aimed at bliss."]}, {"id": "D10.25.63", "lines": ["May God in mercy pardon all his ill,", "And lift his soul to Paradise at will."]}, {"id": "D10.25.64", "lines": ["Do not offend against your God; prepare", "In age to leave this world with proper care."]}, {"id": "D10.25.65", "lines": ["If God, the righteous Judge, approves our way,", "Let not the future trouble you today."]}, {"id": "D10.25.66", "lines": ["Let all your hearts rejoice in what I do,", "And freely to the sacred Fire turn too.”"]}, {"id": "D10.25.67", "lines": ["The chiefs heard well, then wept to know his worth,", "And hailed him as the king of all the earth."]}, {"id": "D10.26.1", "lines": ["A wise wazir arose in council-hall,", "And spoke of justice, clear before them all."]}, {"id": "D10.26.2", "lines": ["“O king of justice, evil men no more", "Make earth afraid as in the days before."]}, {"id": "D10.26.3", "lines": ["Our borders now are free from war’s distress,", "Yet famed Shangul persists in wickedness."]}, {"id": "D10.26.4", "lines": ["From Hindustan to Chin’s remotest lands,", "He fills the roads with many robber bands."]}, {"id": "D10.26.5", "lines": ["He reaches toward Iran with ill intent;", "Let swift and prudent counsel now prevent."]}, {"id": "D10.26.6", "lines": ["You are the Shah; he only governs Hind,", "Why should he tax both distant Chin and Sind?"]}, {"id": "D10.26.7", "lines": ["Consider this, and search his hidden aim;", "Let no new harm arise from Shangul’s claim.”"]}, {"id": "D10.26.8", "lines": ["The Shah, on hearing this, in thought withdrew;", "The world became a forest to his view."]}, {"id": "D10.26.9", "lines": ["He answered, “I will act without a word;", "By no one shall my secret plan be heard."]}, {"id": "D10.26.10", "lines": ["I will observe his army with my eyes,", "His kingship, court, and throne beneath disguise."]}, {"id": "D10.26.11", "lines": ["I will approach him as an envoy sent,", "While none in Iran knows my true intent."]}, {"id": "D10.26.12", "lines": ["O holy Mobad, write to Hind’s great king", "Of love and hatred, and the claims they bring.”"]}, {"id": "D10.26.13", "lines": ["His pious minister and scribe withdrew,", "With those whose help was needed, just a few."]}, {"id": "D10.26.14", "lines": ["They studied all the matter, weighed it well,", "With page, musk ink, and pen their thoughts to tell."]}, {"id": "D10.26.15", "lines": ["They wrote a letter rich with counsel’s seed,", "With praise of God and warnings fit to heed."]}, {"id": "D10.26.16", "lines": ["It opened thus: “May God His blessing bring", "To those who seek it from creation’s King."]}, {"id": "D10.26.17", "lines": ["He rules what is and is not, He alone;", "All things are paired; no peer to God is known."]}, {"id": "D10.26.18", "lines": ["Of every gift that God bestows below,", "No light exceeds what wisdom can bestow."]}, {"id": "D10.26.19", "lines": ["No greater gift can bless the heart or mind;", "It guides both king and subject, all mankind."]}, {"id": "D10.26.20", "lines": ["The man whom wisdom gladdens in his breast", "Will not choose evil as his worldly quest."]}, {"id": "D10.26.21", "lines": ["Who chooses good will not regret or shrink;", "From wisdom’s stream the wicked cannot drink."]}, {"id": "D10.26.22", "lines": ["Through wisdom men escape disaster’s pain;", "May no one ever suffer in its chain."]}, {"id": "D10.26.23", "lines": ["Wisdom’s first mark is this: to fear all wrong,", "And know oneself through all one’s lifetime long."]}, {"id": "D10.26.24", "lines": ["Then with the eye of wisdom search the earth;", "For wisdom gives the crown of kings its worth."]}, {"id": "D10.26.25", "lines": ["It decks the chiefs; the wise know wrong from right,", "Pursue the just, and turn from evil’s blight."]}, {"id": "D10.26.26", "lines": ["You know not your own measure or your place;", "You plunge your soul in blood to your disgrace."]}, {"id": "D10.26.27", "lines": ["Since I am monarch of the age, the weight", "Of good and ill lies with my royal state."]}, {"id": "D10.26.28", "lines": ["With you as king, how little right remains;", "On every side, some fault or failing reigns."]}, {"id": "D10.26.29", "lines": ["It is not kingly to conduct such raids,", "Or join the evil-hearted in their trades."]}, {"id": "D10.26.30", "lines": ["Your father’s father served; your father too", "Was slave before the Shahs who held their due."]}, {"id": "D10.26.31", "lines": ["None of our kings allowed Hindustan’s land", "To fall behind in tribute or command."]}, {"id": "D10.26.32", "lines": ["Now mark the fortune of Chin’s Khan, who rose", "Against Iran, and failed before his foes."]}, {"id": "D10.26.33", "lines": ["He lost as spoil the wealth his army brought,", "And writhed beneath the evil he had wrought."]}, {"id": "D10.26.34", "lines": ["I see you set upon that selfsame course,", "With like perversity and kindred force."]}, {"id": "D10.26.35", "lines": ["Now I have arms and treasures for the war;", "My loyal troops stand ready by the score."]}, {"id": "D10.26.36", "lines": ["You cannot stand before my gallant men;", "No sepahbod in Hind will save you then."]}, {"id": "D10.26.37", "lines": ["You trust your strength too much; how can it be", "You bring your narrow stream against the sea?"]}, {"id": "D10.26.38", "lines": ["Behold, I send an envoy to your side,", "Of knowledge, eloquence, and noble pride."]}, {"id": "D10.26.39", "lines": ["Send tribute, or in folly choose to fight;", "Prepare for war and draw your girth-straps tight."]}, {"id": "D10.26.40", "lines": ["May blessings rest on those whose lives unite", "The threads of wisdom and of what is right.”"]}, {"id": "D10.26.41", "lines": ["When air had dried the ink upon the sheet,", "The scribe then folded it, the work complete."]}, {"id": "D10.26.42", "lines": ["He then addressed it, naming king and crown,", "And Bahram’s rule, which struck all evil down:"]}, {"id": "D10.26.43", "lines": ["“From Bahram Goor, who worships God on high,", "Whose rule extends beneath the spacious sky,"]}, {"id": "D10.26.44", "lines": ["Who took the Kayanian crown from Yazdegard", "In month Khordad, upon the day of Ard,"]}, {"id": "D10.26.45", "lines": ["Chief of the marches, guardian of the realm,", "Whose hand directs the crown and steers the helm,"]}, {"id": "D10.26.46", "lines": ["To whom Rum and Saklab their tribute bring,", "This letter goes from king to distant king,"]}, {"id": "D10.26.47", "lines": ["To Shangul, lord of Hind, this word I send,", "Whose bounds from Ghanooj’s stream to Sind extend.”"]}, {"id": "D10.26.48", "lines": ["The monarch sealed the letter and, disguised", "As one who hunts, told none what he devised."]}, {"id": "D10.26.49", "lines": ["None in the army knew the Shah’s intent;", "With him, his noblemen alone now went."]}, {"id": "D10.26.50", "lines": ["Toward Hindustan he rode with all his band,", "Past Jadustan’s waters, in the sorcerers’ land."]}, {"id": "D10.26.51", "lines": ["When Shangul’s palace rose before his sight,", "The audience hall stood splendid in the light."]}, {"id": "D10.26.52", "lines": ["Its gate and curtain rose before the sky;", "The lofty palace seemed to climb on high."]}, {"id": "D10.26.53", "lines": ["There at the gate were arms in full array,", "And every sign of splendor on display."]}, {"id": "D10.26.54", "lines": ["Horsemen and elephants stood ranked in lines,", "With bells and karnays sounding royal signs."]}, {"id": "D10.26.55", "lines": ["Bahram stood amazed and deep in thought,", "Then spoke to those who kept the gate he sought:"]}, {"id": "D10.26.56", "lines": ["“I am an envoy to this court today,", "Sent by conquering Bahram from far away.”"]}, {"id": "D10.26.57", "lines": ["The chamberlain then passed behind the screen,", "And told the king what stranger had been seen."]}, {"id": "D10.26.58", "lines": ["They raised the curtain at Shangul’s command,", "And brought the envoy in with honor grand."]}, {"id": "D10.26.59", "lines": ["Bahram advanced with stately step and care,", "And saw a chamber crystal-roofed and fair."]}, {"id": "D10.26.60", "lines": ["As he drew near, he saw Shangul, crowned high,", "With royal majesty that filled the eye."]}, {"id": "D10.26.61", "lines": ["The throne stood raised on gold and crystal bright,", "Its gleaming supports flashing back the light."]}, {"id": "D10.26.62", "lines": ["The silver facing, worked with gold, was set", "With gems on every side, a jeweled net."]}, {"id": "D10.26.63", "lines": ["Bahram beheld the brother seated low,", "A crown of jewels upon his head aglow."]}, {"id": "D10.26.64", "lines": ["The minister sat near the royal seat;", "The king’s son stood before it on his feet."]}, {"id": "D10.26.65", "lines": ["The Shah drew near, bowed low, and paused awhile,", "Then loosed his tongue in courtly, measured style."]}, {"id": "D10.26.66", "lines": ["“As envoy, on this silk a letter I bring,", "Writ in Pahlavi for Hind’s mighty king."]}, {"id": "D10.26.67", "lines": ["It comes from Bahram, who stands first in might,", "And worships God, the source of truth and right.”"]}, {"id": "D10.26.68", "lines": ["When Shangul heard the words Bahram had said,", "They placed a golden seat for him ahead."]}, {"id": "D10.26.69", "lines": ["They seated him; then from the outer gate", "His comrades entered in their ordered state."]}, {"id": "D10.26.70", "lines": ["Then Bahram said, “Exalted king, command;", "May good and greatness flourish in your hand.”"]}, {"id": "D10.26.71", "lines": ["“Proceed,” said Shangul. “Speak your message clear,", "For heaven blesses words that all may hear.”"]}, {"id": "D10.26.72", "lines": ["“That Shah is sprung from kings of noble birth,", "Whose equal no one’s mother bore on earth."]}, {"id": "D10.26.73", "lines": ["That prince, the state’s high glory, strong and sure,", "Through justice turns each bane into a cure."]}, {"id": "D10.26.74", "lines": ["All potentates pay tribute at his court;", "The lion is his quarry and his sport."]}, {"id": "D10.26.75", "lines": ["When battle calls, the scimitar in hand,", "He pours a sea of blood across the sand."]}, {"id": "D10.26.76", "lines": ["His bounty falls like springtime’s cloud-borne rain,", "While gold and dinars earn his deep disdain."]}, {"id": "D10.26.77", "lines": ["To Hind’s great king, as envoy, I convey", "His silk-writ words in Pahlavi today.”"]}, {"id": "D10.27.1", "lines": ["The king, on hearing, asked to see the scroll,", "And marveled at that chief of kingly soul."]}, {"id": "D10.27.2", "lines": ["The scribe read out the letter, word by word;", "The king turned saffron-yellow as he heard."]}, {"id": "D10.27.3", "lines": ["He said, “O man of eloquence, take care;", "Speak without haste; of harshness too beware."]}, {"id": "D10.27.4", "lines": ["Your Shah lays claim to greatness in his pride;", "You follow in his footsteps, stride for stride."]}, {"id": "D10.27.5", "lines": ["If one demands that Hind pay tribute due,", "I will not yield, nor change to suit his view."]}, {"id": "D10.27.6", "lines": ["Does he rely on troops or treasured store,", "Or ravage towns and realms by force of war?"]}, {"id": "D10.27.7", "lines": ["An eagle, I see kings as cranes in flight;", "They are but dust before my ocean’s might."]}, {"id": "D10.27.8", "lines": ["No wise man wars against the stars on high,", "Nor wins renown by striking at the sky."]}, {"id": "D10.27.9", "lines": ["True worth is better than vainglorious speech,", "Which makes the wise despise the boasts you preach."]}, {"id": "D10.27.10", "lines": ["No strength, no wisdom, city, or domain;", "Mere talk is all the kingship you retain."]}, {"id": "D10.27.11", "lines": ["My whole domain is one vast hoard, amassed", "By all my fathers through the ages past."]}, {"id": "D10.27.12", "lines": ["I have a jowshan vault for man and steed;", "My treasurer unlocks it at our need."]}, {"id": "D10.27.13", "lines": ["Its key needs elephants to bear its weight;", "If even they can haul a load so great."]}, {"id": "D10.27.14", "lines": ["Count all my swords and all my jowshans, then", "The stars seem few beside the arms of men."]}, {"id": "D10.27.15", "lines": ["The earth could scarcely bear my crown and pride,", "My elephants and armies spread out wide."]}, {"id": "D10.27.16", "lines": ["A thousand times a thousand call me king;", "A million voices thus my praises sing."]}, {"id": "D10.27.17", "lines": ["Mine are the gems of mountains and of seas;", "The world receives its wealth and ease from these."]}, {"id": "D10.27.18", "lines": ["My aloeswood and musk in plenty flow;", "My camphor stores and ambergris still grow."]}, {"id": "D10.27.19", "lines": ["All cures for those who suffer, those who ail,", "Grow in my land, whose riches never fail."]}, {"id": "D10.27.20", "lines": ["Gold, silver, jewels fill my stores of state;", "And eighty gold-crowned kings upon me wait."]}, {"id": "D10.27.21", "lines": ["My land has mountains, seas, and chasms wide;", "No foul Div there could reach the other side."]}, {"id": "D10.27.22", "lines": ["From Ghanooj to Iran’s far boundary line,", "From Saklab to Chin’s sea, the chiefs are mine."]}, {"id": "D10.27.23", "lines": ["From watch-posts in Khutan through Hind and Chin,", "No name but mine is heard in all between."]}, {"id": "D10.27.24", "lines": ["All praise my crown, and each in service grows;", "My fame through every guarded border flows."]}, {"id": "D10.27.25", "lines": ["Within my women’s bower, Faghfoor’s child,", "The daughter of Chin’s lord, prays blessings mild."]}, {"id": "D10.27.26", "lines": ["By her I have a son of lion heart,", "Whose sword can tear the mountain’s breast apart."]}, {"id": "D10.27.27", "lines": ["Since Kay Kavus and Kay Qobad of old,", "No king has cared to challenge what I hold."]}, {"id": "D10.27.28", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand warriors shout my name,", "Twelve hundred kinsmen too uphold my fame."]}, {"id": "D10.27.29", "lines": ["They all are trusted, wholly mine to lead,", "My kin by ancient blood in word and deed."]}, {"id": "D10.27.30", "lines": ["Their war-cry makes the jungle lions gnaw", "Their claws in dread, subdued by fear and awe."]}, {"id": "D10.27.31", "lines": ["Were there a precedent for kings to slay", "An envoy in their wrath upon the way,"]}, {"id": "D10.27.32", "lines": ["I would divide your head and trunk in two,", "And let your garments wail aloud for you.”"]}, {"id": "D10.27.33", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Since you are great, O king,", "Sow no harsh seed from which fresh wrong may spring."]}, {"id": "D10.27.34", "lines": ["My Shah declared, ‘Repeat these words from me:", "Let wisdom guide you; from the foul Divs flee."]}, {"id": "D10.27.35", "lines": ["Now bring two men of learning from your court,", "Whose fluent tongues can answer this report."]}, {"id": "D10.27.36", "lines": ["If one of them surpasses one of ours", "In counsel and in wisdom’s searching powers,"]}, {"id": "D10.27.37", "lines": ["Then I will leave your realm in peace to stand;", "Wise men hold reason high in every land."]}, {"id": "D10.27.38", "lines": ["Or choose a hundred horsemen fit to fight,", "Who wield their heavy gorzes with full might."]}, {"id": "D10.27.39", "lines": ["Let them fight one of us; when worth is shown,", "Your valor and your worth will then be known."]}, {"id": "D10.27.40", "lines": ["If thus your worth is proved, we will demand", "No tribute from the borders of your land.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.28.1", "lines": ["When Shangul heard, he answered with a frown,", "“Such words befit no warrior of renown."]}, {"id": "D10.28.2", "lines": ["Remain awhile, relax, and take your ease;", "Why parley on in words that cannot please?”"]}, {"id": "D10.28.3", "lines": ["They made a splendid hall for royal cheer,", "And Bahram rested till the noon drew near."]}, {"id": "D10.28.4", "lines": ["When heaven’s crown had reached its height of light,", "The feast stood ready, sumptuous and bright."]}, {"id": "D10.28.5", "lines": ["The king’s command had furnished all the hall,", "And zealous servants hastened at his call."]}, {"id": "D10.28.6", "lines": ["When at his word the royal board was laid,", "Shangul gave orders to a waiting aide:"]}, {"id": "D10.28.7", "lines": ["“Go call Iran’s envoy, whose tongue is fine,", "Though new to such affairs, to come and dine."]}, {"id": "D10.28.8", "lines": ["Bring all his comrades too, and seat them where", "Ambassadors receive appointed care.”"]}, {"id": "D10.28.9", "lines": ["Bahram came quickly, sat before the bread,", "Reached forth his hand, but not a word he said."]}, {"id": "D10.28.10", "lines": ["When food was done, they turned themselves to wine,", "And called for harps to make the banquet shine."]}, {"id": "D10.28.11", "lines": ["The food was sweet with musk; beneath them lay", "Rich cloths of gold brocade in bright array."]}, {"id": "D10.28.12", "lines": ["When lords grew merry from the flowing bowl,", "And anxious cares released each noble soul,"]}, {"id": "D10.28.13", "lines": ["King Shangul called two mighty men to stand,", "Both strong wrestlers, fit to face a Div’s hand."]}, {"id": "D10.28.14", "lines": ["The noble athletes entered, bold and proud,", "And tied their wrestling cloths before the crowd."]}, {"id": "D10.28.15", "lines": ["The two young men began to twist and strain,", "Each striving for a hold he could maintain."]}, {"id": "D10.28.16", "lines": ["Bahram took up a crystal cup of red;", "The wine had sent its fumes into his head."]}, {"id": "D10.28.17", "lines": ["He said, “O king, permit me now to bind", "My wrestling cloth, and clear my wine-filled mind."]}, {"id": "D10.28.18", "lines": ["Let me contend with men of strength and might,", "Lest drunken folly mar the feast tonight.”"]}, {"id": "D10.28.19", "lines": ["Shangul laughed out and to the envoy said,", "“Throw down these men, and let their blood be shed.”"]}, {"id": "D10.28.20", "lines": ["When Bahram heard, he rose before them all,", "And stooped his upright body in the hall."]}, {"id": "D10.28.21", "lines": ["As lions seize a Gur-e-Khar at bay,", "He gripped his waist and dashed him to the clay."]}, {"id": "D10.28.22", "lines": ["His bones were broken; pale, he lay; amazed,", "The king on Bahram’s height and shoulders gazed."]}, {"id": "D10.28.23", "lines": ["In Indian speech he called on God; and then", "He judged him stronger far than forty men."]}, {"id": "D10.28.24", "lines": ["When all were drunk with sweet wine, full of cheer,", "They left the hall where gems shone bright and clear."]}, {"id": "D10.28.25", "lines": ["The heavens wore their musk-dark silk; the board", "Was cleared, the long repast’s last cup was poured."]}, {"id": "D10.28.26", "lines": ["Then all laid down their heads in slumber deep,", "And mighty warriors too gave way to sleep."]}, {"id": "D10.28.27", "lines": ["When musk-dark veils gave way to morning gold,", "And in the sky the sun rose bright and bold,"]}, {"id": "D10.28.28", "lines": ["The king rode to the polo ground that day,", "His mallet in his hand, intent on play."]}, {"id": "D10.28.29", "lines": ["His servants bore his bow and shafts behind;", "He rode awhile for sport and ease of mind."]}, {"id": "D10.28.30", "lines": ["He bade Bahram mount up at his command,", "And take a Kayanian bow in hand."]}, {"id": "D10.28.31", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Iran’s horsemen are here,", "O king, and long to join your sport and cheer."]}, {"id": "D10.28.32", "lines": ["They long for archery and polo’s play;", "Let your command permit their sport today.”"]}, {"id": "D10.28.33", "lines": ["Shangul replied, “The bow and arrow stand", "The main supports of every horseman’s hand."]}, {"id": "D10.28.34", "lines": ["With limbs like yours, that neck, that powerful frame,", "String up your bow and vindicate your fame.”"]}, {"id": "D10.28.35", "lines": ["Bahram Goor strung the bow and urged his steed;", "He gave the gallant horse its rein for speed."]}, {"id": "D10.28.36", "lines": ["He loosed his thumb; one shaft flew to the mark,", "And shattered it as lightning splits the dark."]}, {"id": "D10.28.37", "lines": ["The sportsmen and the warriors, one and all,", "Called blessings down on him with joyful call."]}, {"id": "D10.29.1", "lines": ["Shangul, suspicious, scrutinized his guest,", "And pondered what his stature might attest."]}, {"id": "D10.29.2", "lines": ["“This farr, this height, this archery,” he thought,", "“Are not the skills a common envoy brought."]}, {"id": "D10.29.3", "lines": ["No Indian, Turk, or noble could display", "Such signs of farr as mark this man today."]}, {"id": "D10.29.4", "lines": ["Whether Shah-born or noble in his line,", "I should call such a man a brother mine.”"]}, {"id": "D10.29.5", "lines": ["He smiled and said, “High prince of noble birth,", "Accomplished in the arts that prove your worth,"]}, {"id": "D10.29.6", "lines": ["You are the Shah’s own brother; this I know", "By bounty, strength, and mastery of the bow."]}, {"id": "D10.29.7", "lines": ["You bear the royal farr, the lion’s might;", "You are a famous champion, bold in fight.”"]}, {"id": "D10.29.8", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “O king of Hind, refrain", "From treating royal envoys with disdain."]}, {"id": "D10.29.9", "lines": ["I am no Shah, nor Yazdegard’s own seed;", "To call him brother is a wrongful deed."]}, {"id": "D10.29.10", "lines": ["A stranger sent from Iran comes to you,", "No sage, no seeker after learning true."]}, {"id": "D10.29.11", "lines": ["Dismiss me, for the road before me lies,", "And I must not displease the Shah’s stern eyes.”"]}, {"id": "D10.29.12", "lines": ["Shangul replied, “Do not insist, but hear;", "I still have matters meant for your own ear."]}, {"id": "D10.29.13", "lines": ["You should not be so eager to depart;", "A hasty going prospers no man’s heart."]}, {"id": "D10.29.14", "lines": ["Remain with us, and let your cares decline;", "If aged wine displeases, take new wine.”"]}, {"id": "D10.29.15", "lines": ["He with his trusted minister withdrew,", "And said, “I have a secret word for you."]}, {"id": "D10.29.16", "lines": ["If he is not of Bahram’s royal breed,", "And does not other Pahlevans exceed,"]}, {"id": "D10.29.17", "lines": ["That fact would startle every wise man’s heart;", "We must not trust the words he chose with art."]}, {"id": "D10.29.18", "lines": ["Address him courteously; persuade him, ‘Stay;", "No cause requires you leave Ghanooj today.’"]}, {"id": "D10.29.19", "lines": ["Go speak to him with guile, but gently, too;", "My words may frighten him; he may heed you."]}, {"id": "D10.29.20", "lines": ["Yet better far that you should speak instead,", "And use calm words to guide his heart and head."]}, {"id": "D10.29.21", "lines": ["Say this: ‘The king of Hind now holds you high;", "Your worth has gained new honor in his eye."]}, {"id": "D10.29.22", "lines": ["If you remain and aid his subtle mind,", "The fairest march of Hind will be assigned:"]}, {"id": "D10.29.23", "lines": ["A land of endless spring, whose rivers pour", "The scent of roses on each flowering shore."]}, {"id": "D10.29.24", "lines": ["The fortunate do not leave Ghanooj’s ground,", "Where twice a year the fruiting trees are crowned."]}, {"id": "D10.29.25", "lines": ["There treasures, gems, and gold dinars abound;", "Where money flows, few grieving hearts are found."]}, {"id": "D10.29.26", "lines": ["The king is kind; your face will bring him cheer,", "And make him smile, for he has held you dear.’"]}, {"id": "D10.29.27", "lines": ["Then ask his name when you have played your part;", "The knowledge of it will delight my heart."]}, {"id": "D10.29.28", "lines": ["If he should settle here, his farr would raise", "Our kingdom’s worth and bring it greater praise."]}, {"id": "D10.29.29", "lines": ["We will make him chief of our troops, and place", "This province in his charge with royal grace.”"]}, {"id": "D10.29.30", "lines": ["The king’s experienced minister then went,", "Found Bahram, and revealed the king’s intent."]}, {"id": "D10.29.31", "lines": ["He showed the road of favor, wealth, and fame,", "Then asked him clearly to declare his name."]}, {"id": "D10.29.32", "lines": ["Without that name no answer would suffice;", "Bahram grew pale and weighed the best advice."]}, {"id": "D10.29.33", "lines": ["At length he said, “Do not disgrace me so,", "And shame me in both kingdoms, high and low."]}, {"id": "D10.29.34", "lines": ["I will not quit the Shah for any store,", "However want may press me at the door."]}, {"id": "D10.29.35", "lines": ["The teachings of our Faith forbid that road;", "Our laws and customs all reject that load."]}, {"id": "D10.29.36", "lines": ["Whoever turns against his rightful crown", "Through treason earns dishonor and falls down."]}, {"id": "D10.29.37", "lines": ["No man of wisdom longs for added gain;", "With us, both good and evil pass like rain."]}, {"id": "D10.29.38", "lines": ["Where now is Fereydoon of crown and might,", "Whose strength once held the back of time upright?"]}, {"id": "D10.29.39", "lines": ["Where now is Kay Khosrow, the famed in fight,", "And Kay Qobad, whose glory shone so bright?"]}, {"id": "D10.29.40", "lines": ["You know in part Bahram’s great strength and worth,", "The young, ambitious Shah, the pride of earth."]}, {"id": "D10.29.41", "lines": ["If I defied his will, his wrath would spread,", "And rain a ruined world upon my head."]}, {"id": "D10.29.42", "lines": ["He would leave Hind no field, no height, no strand,", "And bear to Iran dust from Wizard-land."]}, {"id": "D10.29.43", "lines": ["My better course is homeward, to appear", "Before the conquering Shah, whom all revere."]}, {"id": "D10.29.44", "lines": ["If you would know my name, call me Barzvi;", "My king and parents gave that name to me."]}, {"id": "D10.29.45", "lines": ["Report to King Shangul these words I say:", "Beneath an alien rule, too long I stay.”"]}, {"id": "D10.29.46", "lines": ["The minister received his firm reply,", "And told the king the truth without a lie."]}, {"id": "D10.29.47", "lines": ["Shangul frowned darkly: “He has strayed; my art", "Shall end his days and still that valiant heart.”"]}, {"id": "D10.29.48", "lines": ["Within that realm there dwelt a wolf so high,", "Its bulk blocked winds that traveled through the sky."]}, {"id": "D10.29.49", "lines": ["The lions fled its woodland in dismay;", "The vultures from the heavens flew away."]}, {"id": "D10.29.50", "lines": ["Its roar filled Hind with clamor, dread, and fear;", "It deafened even those most keen of ear."]}, {"id": "D10.30.1", "lines": ["Shangul said, “Valiant man, this task is one", "That by your strength and courage can be done."]}, {"id": "D10.30.2", "lines": ["Beside my city lies a wood I dread;", "A wolf within it leaves the lions dead."]}, {"id": "D10.30.3", "lines": ["It tears out lions’ hearts and leopards’ hides;", "A nahang’s savage force in it abides."]}, {"id": "D10.30.4", "lines": ["Let this be yours: go face that wolf in fight,", "And pierce its hide with every shaft of might."]}, {"id": "D10.30.5", "lines": ["If from this beast our troubled land is freed,", "Your lofty farr will give the rest we need."]}, {"id": "D10.30.6", "lines": ["Thereafter, in my judgment and esteem,", "Your honor through this noble court shall gleam."]}, {"id": "D10.30.7", "lines": ["Your station shall be raised, and men shall tell", "Of you through Hind and Chin, and praise you well.”"]}, {"id": "D10.30.8", "lines": ["True Bahram answered, “I shall need a guide;", "Then, by God’s strength, when I have reached its side,"]}, {"id": "D10.30.9", "lines": ["You shall behold its hide all soaked in blood,", "Its fury humbled in a crimson flood.”"]}, {"id": "D10.30.10", "lines": ["Shangul supplied a guide who knew the ground,", "And where the bloodthirsty beast could be found."]}, {"id": "D10.30.11", "lines": ["With that kind guide, Bahram went on ahead,", "Toward the wood where that fierce wolf was fed."]}, {"id": "D10.30.12", "lines": ["The guide described its lair along the way,", "Its height and breadth, the bulk its limbs display."]}, {"id": "D10.30.13", "lines": ["He showed the place, then turned and journeyed back;", "Bahram went onward down the woodland track."]}, {"id": "D10.30.14", "lines": ["A few Iranians followed for the fray,", "With belts drawn tight and courage in array."]}, {"id": "D10.30.15", "lines": ["But when they saw its snout, the ground below", "Seemed sinking at the terror of that foe,"]}, {"id": "D10.30.16", "lines": ["They cried, “O Shah, do not attempt this deed;", "You pass beyond what courage should concede."]}, {"id": "D10.30.17", "lines": ["No man has fought with mountains or with stone,", "Though you are brave, and all your might is known."]}, {"id": "D10.30.18", "lines": ["Say to Shangul, ‘This deed cannot be done;", "I lack my Shah’s command to face this one."]}, {"id": "D10.30.19", "lines": ["I fight when ordered, so that when he hears,", "He may advance my rank among my peers.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.30.20", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “If God assigns my dust", "To Hind, who can reverse His judgment just?"]}, {"id": "D10.30.21", "lines": ["How could I die elsewhere than He assigns?", "Such mysteries remain in God’s designs.”"]}, {"id": "D10.30.22", "lines": ["That valiant youth then strung his bow for death;", "One might have thought he scorned his mortal breath."]}, {"id": "D10.30.23", "lines": ["He charged the wolf in anger; on he sped,", "His heart prepared for death that lay ahead."]}, {"id": "D10.30.24", "lines": ["He gripped his Kayanian bow for fight,", "And drew a khadang shaft to speed its flight."]}, {"id": "D10.30.25", "lines": ["He poured his arrows like a storm of hail,", "Until the wolf began to faint and fail."]}, {"id": "D10.30.26", "lines": ["When Bahram saw the beast’s last strength was low,", "He drew his khanjar, putting down his bow."]}, {"id": "D10.30.27", "lines": ["He cut its head clean off and spoke in prayer:", "“In God’s name, who has neither mate nor pair."]}, {"id": "D10.30.28", "lines": ["Yazdan of all has freely granted me", "This farr and might that all the world may see."]}, {"id": "D10.30.29", "lines": ["By His command the sun above burns bright,", "And fills the turning sky with royal light.”"]}, {"id": "D10.30.30", "lines": ["He sent for carts and oxen to convey", "The wolf’s head from the woodland where it lay."]}, {"id": "D10.30.31", "lines": ["They brought the head; with brocade richly spread,", "Shangul adorned the hall where guests were fed."]}, {"id": "D10.30.32", "lines": ["The king sat crowned, in all his royal pride,", "And seated honored Bahram at his side."]}, {"id": "D10.30.33", "lines": ["The chiefs of Hind and Chin’s great horsemen raised", "Their joyful din, and he was loudly praised."]}, {"id": "D10.30.34", "lines": ["The lords brought offerings, saying, “None before", "Has done a deed so bright in mortal lore."]}, {"id": "D10.30.35", "lines": ["Its brilliance overwhelms the seeing eye;", "No other deed can claim a place so high.”"]}, {"id": "D10.30.36", "lines": ["Shangul felt joy and grief that ebbed and flowed;", "His face now shone, now dark dismay it showed."]}, {"id": "D10.30.37", "lines": ["There was a dragon, haunting land and main,", "Now in the sea, now basking on the plain."]}, {"id": "D10.30.38", "lines": ["Its breath drew mighty elephants inside,", "And stirred the waters of the Nile’s broad tide."]}, {"id": "D10.30.39", "lines": ["Shangul then spoke to his companions wise,", "His clever confidants with guarded eyes:"]}, {"id": "D10.30.40", "lines": ["“This lion-hearted envoy makes me glad,", "Yet often, thinking of him, I grow sad."]}, {"id": "D10.30.41", "lines": ["If he remained, he would support my hand,", "At Ghanooj, chief of troops at my command."]}, {"id": "D10.30.42", "lines": ["But if he leaves for Iran’s broad domain,", "Bahram will raze Ghanooj and all its plain."]}, {"id": "D10.30.43", "lines": ["With such a servant to so great a king,", "Ghanooj would lose the color of its spring."]}, {"id": "D10.30.44", "lines": ["All night I mused, until my course grew clear:", "I send him where the dragon spreads its fear."]}, {"id": "D10.30.45", "lines": ["He cannot hope to flee that deadly foe;", "No man can charge my rule with guilt or woe."]}, {"id": "D10.30.46", "lines": ["For if he chooses dragons for his fight,", "His death will seem the wager of his might.”"]}, {"id": "D10.30.47", "lines": ["He summoned Bahram, praised the men of fame,", "And spoke of heroes worthy of their name:"]}, {"id": "D10.30.48", "lines": ["“God, Author of the soul, has led you here,", "From Iran’s realm to Hindustan’s frontier,"]}, {"id": "D10.30.49", "lines": ["To purge the ills that burden all our folk,", "As men of name have done, and cast the yoke."]}, {"id": "D10.30.50", "lines": ["A task of pain and hardship lies ahead,", "At first all toil, but gain when it is sped."]}, {"id": "D10.30.51", "lines": ["When you have done this, do not pause or roam;", "With my approval, take the road back home.”"]}, {"id": "D10.30.52", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I will not turn aside,", "But faithfully perform what you decide."]}, {"id": "D10.30.53", "lines": ["Unless the heavens turn my fortune ill,", "I shall perform whatever you may will.”"]}, {"id": "D10.31.1", "lines": ["Shangul then said to Bahram: “In my reign,", "A dragon brings my people grief and pain."]}, {"id": "D10.31.2", "lines": ["It roams both land and sea with furious will,", "And even fierce nahangs are its to kill."]}, {"id": "D10.31.3", "lines": ["Devise some way to free Hind from this plight;", "Its tribute then shall be Iran’s by right."]}, {"id": "D10.31.4", "lines": ["The country will consent to this accord,", "With aloe-wood and gifts from every hoard."]}, {"id": "D10.31.5", "lines": ["Swords, goods of every kind, and tribute too", "Will all be sent to Iran’s Shah with you.”"]}, {"id": "D10.31.6", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Great king, whose sovereign hand", "Makes law throughout the breadth of Hind’s broad land,"]}, {"id": "D10.31.7", "lines": ["By God’s will, I shall slay this beast of dread,", "And rid the earth of its destructive tread."]}, {"id": "D10.31.8", "lines": ["But first I must be shown where it has lain;", "The way to reach it you must now explain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.31.9", "lines": ["Shangul dispatched a guide to show the way;", "Bahram set out without the least delay."]}, {"id": "D10.31.10", "lines": ["With thirty armed Iranians in his train,", "He rode toward the sea across the plain."]}, {"id": "D10.31.11", "lines": ["He reached the water, where his eyes could trace", "The dragon writhing in that darkened place."]}, {"id": "D10.31.12", "lines": ["He saw its furious form and burning eyes,", "Where fire flashed out beneath the darkened skies."]}, {"id": "D10.31.13", "lines": ["Iran’s brave nobles cried aloud in fear;", "Their troubled hearts grew faint as they drew near:"]}, {"id": "D10.31.14", "lines": ["“Do not confront it as the wolf you slew;", "This dragon brings a deadlier fight to you."]}, {"id": "D10.31.15", "lines": ["Do not leave Iran mourning for its king,", "Nor give your foes the joy your death would bring.”"]}, {"id": "D10.31.16", "lines": ["The bold Bahram replied, “My life I give", "To God the Just, by whose command I live."]}, {"id": "D10.31.17", "lines": ["If I am doomed to perish by this beast,", "My span will not be shortened in the least."]}, {"id": "D10.31.18", "lines": ["Nor can mere courage lengthen what is due;", "What God has written must at last come true.”"]}, {"id": "D10.31.19", "lines": ["He strung his bow and chose his shafts with skill;", "Their tips bore milk and poison mixed to kill."]}, {"id": "D10.31.20", "lines": ["He loosed them thick while wheeling through the fight,", "And turned his horse now left and now to right."]}, {"id": "D10.31.21", "lines": ["With steel-tipped shafts he sewed the dragon’s mouth,", "Whose venom scorched the brambles north and south."]}, {"id": "D10.31.22", "lines": ["Four further shafts he drove into its head;", "Its blood and venom mingled as they spread."]}, {"id": "D10.31.23", "lines": ["The dragon weakened under arrow-rain,", "And all the ground ran dark with gore and bane."]}, {"id": "D10.31.24", "lines": ["Then lightly Bahram drew his watered blade,", "And through the dragon’s heart a passage made."]}, {"id": "D10.31.25", "lines": ["With sword and battle-ax its neck he cleft;", "Upon the earth its lifeless frame he left."]}, {"id": "D10.31.26", "lines": ["He drew its head by cart before the throne;", "To Shangul there the dragon’s head was shown."]}, {"id": "D10.31.27", "lines": ["“May God bless Iran, where such horsemen grow,", "Who ride to meet a dragon as their foe!"]}, {"id": "D10.31.28", "lines": ["His stature, limbs, and shoulders all proclaim", "That none except his Shah can match his frame.”"]}, {"id": "D10.31.29", "lines": ["But Shangul sat in anguish and in dread;", "At Bahram’s deeds, the color from him fled."]}, {"id": "D10.32.1", "lines": ["When night came on, he summoned one sage wise,", "With friends and strangers, men of practiced eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.32.2", "lines": ["He said, “This man who comes in Bahram’s name", "Bears mastery and mighty strength of frame."]}, {"id": "D10.32.3", "lines": ["He will not stay, though I have plied each art;", "I tried all means; he still resolves to part."]}, {"id": "D10.32.4", "lines": ["If he returns to Bahram’s royal side,", "And stands where Iran’s conquering troops abide,"]}, {"id": "D10.32.5", "lines": ["He will belittle all my men and say", "That Hind has not one horseman fit for fray."]}, {"id": "D10.32.6", "lines": ["My foe may raise his head at what is said;", "This envoy must be killed; I want his head."]}, {"id": "D10.32.7", "lines": ["In secret I intend to have him slain;", "What course would you advise? Make counsel plain.”"]}, {"id": "D10.32.8", "lines": ["The sage replied, “O king, do not bring grief", "Upon your heart through such a dark belief."]}, {"id": "D10.32.9", "lines": ["To slay an envoy of a royal court", "Is senseless; spurn a deed of such a sort."]}, {"id": "D10.32.10", "lines": ["No thoughtful man would choose so dark a way;", "O king of Hind, dismiss this thought today."]}, {"id": "D10.32.11", "lines": ["Among great rulers, this would stain your name;", "A chief owes to his people his acclaim."]}, {"id": "D10.32.12", "lines": ["An army out of Iran will quickly come,", "With Shah Bahram, whose wrath will strike us dumb."]}, {"id": "D10.32.13", "lines": ["Not one of us would then escape the blow;", "Do not forsake the good you ought to show."]}, {"id": "D10.32.14", "lines": ["This man delivered us from dragon’s breath;", "His toil deserves not recompense by death."]}, {"id": "D10.32.15", "lines": ["He slew the wolf and dragon; let him live,", "For life, not death, is what you ought to give.”"]}, {"id": "D10.32.16", "lines": ["When Shangul heard, his heart grew dark with doubt;", "He sat, confounded, turning it about."]}, {"id": "D10.32.17", "lines": ["So passed the night; at dawn he sent a man", "To summon Bahram for his secret plan."]}, {"id": "D10.32.18", "lines": ["When they had met apart, and none was by,", "No minister stood near, no watchful eye,"]}, {"id": "D10.32.19", "lines": ["He said, “O joy of hearts, your wealth is great;", "Seek nothing more; be pleased with your estate."]}, {"id": "D10.32.20", "lines": ["I mean to give my daughter now to you;", "My deeds shall prove the words I speak are true."]}, {"id": "D10.32.21", "lines": ["When this is done, remain with me and stay;", "You have no leave to take the homeward way."]}, {"id": "D10.32.22", "lines": ["I shall put all my troops at your command,", "And grant you royal power throughout the land.”"]}, {"id": "D10.32.23", "lines": ["Bahram was struck with wonder at the word;", "Thoughts of his throne, birth, shame, and battle stirred."]}, {"id": "D10.32.24", "lines": ["“I cannot fight him here and hope to win;", "No shame will come from taking him as kin."]}, {"id": "D10.32.25", "lines": ["No shame will follow if I take this bride;", "Her hand may save my life here at his side."]}, {"id": "D10.32.26", "lines": ["Perhaps I will once more see Iran’s soil;", "Too long we have remained in foreign toil."]}, {"id": "D10.32.27", "lines": ["As matters stand, the lion is held fast,", "Caught in the fox’s net so slyly cast.”"]}, {"id": "D10.32.28", "lines": ["He said to King Shangul, “I give consent;", "I will obey your word and its intent."]}, {"id": "D10.32.29", "lines": ["Yet choose a daughter; let me see her face,", "And offer praise for all her charm and grace.”"]}, {"id": "D10.32.30", "lines": ["The king of Hind rejoiced at his reply,", "And Chinese silks adorned the palace high."]}, {"id": "D10.32.31", "lines": ["Shangul’s three daughters entered like the spring,", "With scents and colors fit to grace a king."]}, {"id": "D10.32.32", "lines": ["He said, “Prepare to see a wondrous sight,", "A beauty fresh with grace and royal light.”"]}, {"id": "D10.32.33", "lines": ["Bahram Goor went and saw the splendid hall,", "And moon-faced maidens standing one and all."]}, {"id": "D10.32.34", "lines": ["He chose one radiant as spring renewed,", "The maiden known at court as Sapinud."]}, {"id": "D10.32.35", "lines": ["All grace and modesty, all charm and wit,", "She seemed for royal fortune fashioned fit."]}, {"id": "D10.32.36", "lines": ["To Bahram Shangul gave his daughter bright,", "A cypress, like a smokeless candle’s light."]}, {"id": "D10.32.37", "lines": ["His richest treasury he opened wide,", "And gave its key to that fair moon-faced bride."]}, {"id": "D10.32.38", "lines": ["He called Bahram’s companions to attend,", "And richly honored each man as a friend."]}, {"id": "D10.32.39", "lines": ["He gave them gold, with dirhams and dinars,", "With camphor, aloe, ambergris in jars."]}, {"id": "D10.32.40", "lines": ["He decked the hall with jewels for the feast;", "Ghanooj’s famed men came, from great to least."]}, {"id": "D10.32.41", "lines": ["They walked into the banquet hall with cheer,", "And gathered, glad to find the monarch near."]}, {"id": "D10.32.42", "lines": ["A week they sat in joy, with wine in hand,", "And gladness filled the gathered noble band."]}, {"id": "D10.32.43", "lines": ["With Shah Bahram, fair Sapinud shone bright,", "Like wine that fills a crystal cup with light."]}, {"id": "D10.33.1", "lines": ["News reached the mighty Faghfoor, king of Chin:", "“A man of farr from Iran now is seen."]}, {"id": "D10.33.2", "lines": ["He reached Shangul’s high court in envoy’s guise,", "Of hero stock, with valor in his eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.33.3", "lines": ["Shangul has given him his child to wed;", "Her crown would brush the moon above her head.”"]}, {"id": "D10.33.4", "lines": ["The mighty Faghfoor wrote to Bahram then,", "And set this lofty heading with his pen:"]}, {"id": "D10.33.5", "lines": ["“From him who rules the world with sole command,", "The head of nobles over every land,"]}, {"id": "D10.33.6", "lines": ["The crown of chiefs, to Iran’s envoy famed,", "Whose worth in distant courts is widely named,"]}, {"id": "D10.33.7", "lines": ["Who reached Ghanooj with thirty at his side,", "Your fame has spread through lands both far and wide."]}, {"id": "D10.33.8", "lines": ["I have received accounts of you, great man,", "Your wisdom, prudence, counsel, strength, and plan."]}, {"id": "D10.33.9", "lines": ["I hear how firm you stand in every field,", "With steadfast heart that never learns to yield."]}, {"id": "D10.33.10", "lines": ["The wolf and that notorious dragon lay", "Slain by your sword; they could not get away."]}, {"id": "D10.33.11", "lines": ["That bride is kin to me; one tiny mole", "Is worth the realm of Hind, entire and whole."]}, {"id": "D10.33.12", "lines": ["You raised your head on high by such a tie,", "Joined with a mighty king beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D10.33.13", "lines": ["Great is your Shah in Iran, whose renown", "Grows through his servant’s bride, the moon’s own crown."]}, {"id": "D10.33.14", "lines": ["With royal leave you took the road that led", "To Ghanooj, where a moonlike bride you wed."]}, {"id": "D10.33.15", "lines": ["Now hasten here to me and be my guest;", "Remain as long as suits your own behest."]}, {"id": "D10.33.16", "lines": ["My eyes will brighten when they look on you;", "Your counsel will become my breastplate too."]}, {"id": "D10.33.17", "lines": ["Depart at will; no bond will make you stay", "Within my realm when you would go away."]}, {"id": "D10.33.18", "lines": ["With robes of honor, wealth, and joyful cheer,", "Go well supplied, with all your comrades near."]}, {"id": "D10.33.19", "lines": ["No shame will touch you if you come as guest;", "No quarrel with your Shah disturbs my rest."]}, {"id": "D10.33.20", "lines": ["Do not be slow in coming to my side;", "When you would leave, depart in honored pride.”"]}, {"id": "D10.33.21", "lines": ["The letter reached Bahram; his anger stirred.", "He called a scribe to pen his answering word."]}, {"id": "D10.33.22", "lines": ["Within the garden of revenge he sowed", "A tree of hate, as forth his answer flowed."]}, {"id": "D10.33.23", "lines": ["The letter opened: “I received your news;", "It seems that Chin alone informs your views."]}, {"id": "D10.33.24", "lines": ["For you addressed your letter in this way:", "‘From him whom all the realms of earth obey,"]}, {"id": "D10.33.25", "lines": ["Earth’s monarch, towering over all the rest,", "Above the greatest chiefs, above the best.’"]}, {"id": "D10.33.26", "lines": ["Your words are false; the grandeur you proclaim", "Is not an ancient greatness I would name."]}, {"id": "D10.33.27", "lines": ["Bahram Goor alone is king of kings;", "We know no other lord of earthly things."]}, {"id": "D10.33.28", "lines": ["No man recalls a monarch such as he,", "In courage, knowledge, farr, and pedigree."]}, {"id": "D10.33.29", "lines": ["I call him victor, ruler of the earth,", "Above all other kings in rank and worth."]}, {"id": "D10.33.30", "lines": ["And as for what you said about my deed,", "And toil endured in Hind through warlike need,"]}, {"id": "D10.33.31", "lines": ["That was the star of Shah Bahram, whose name", "Shines with his farr and majesty and fame."]}, {"id": "D10.33.32", "lines": ["Such deeds belong to heroes Iran has known;", "They count fierce lions lighter than a stone."]}, {"id": "D10.33.33", "lines": ["They know their God, are one in heart, and praise", "No stars for all the good that crowns their days."]}, {"id": "D10.33.34", "lines": ["When King Shangul bestowed his child as bride,", "My valor won that honor at his side."]}, {"id": "D10.33.35", "lines": ["Shangul is great; his courage guards the fold,", "And drives the wolves from sheep with spirit bold."]}, {"id": "D10.33.36", "lines": ["He deemed it good to bind his house to me,", "And gave his worthy daughter, fair and free."]}, {"id": "D10.33.37", "lines": ["Again, you said, ‘Arise and seek my hall;", "I will guide you, whatever may befall.’"]}, {"id": "D10.33.38", "lines": ["The Shah sent me to Hind; shall I then go", "To Chin for painted silks and outward show?"]}, {"id": "D10.33.39", "lines": ["Were I to choose a course so far aside,", "My king would not approve that turning tide."]}, {"id": "D10.33.40", "lines": ["You offer gifts; God made me free to live", "Without the goods that other men might give."]}, {"id": "D10.33.41", "lines": ["For Bahram’s gifts I give him grateful praise,", "And pray three watches through my nights and days."]}, {"id": "D10.33.42", "lines": ["I take your praise, beyond my rightful due;", "Bahram shall hear the praise that came from you."]}, {"id": "D10.33.43", "lines": ["May God send blessings woven without end,", "Whose warp and weft no skies can comprehend.”"]}, {"id": "D10.33.44", "lines": ["He sealed the letter with his signet-ring,", "And sent his answer back to Chin’s great king."]}, {"id": "D10.34.1", "lines": ["When Bahram with King Shangul’s daughter stayed,", "She knew him as the king the world obeyed."]}, {"id": "D10.34.2", "lines": ["Her tears would never cease for love of him;", "She watched his face while all the world grew dim."]}, {"id": "D10.34.3", "lines": ["Her father heard how deep their love had grown,", "And cast aside the doubts his heart had known."]}, {"id": "D10.34.4", "lines": ["One day they sat together, at their ease,", "And spoke of weighty things and things that please."]}, {"id": "D10.34.5", "lines": ["Then Shah Bahram addressed her: “You are true;", "I know you wish me well in all I do."]}, {"id": "D10.34.6", "lines": ["I will reveal a secret to your ear;", "Keep it close-locked, and let no soul draw near."]}, {"id": "D10.34.7", "lines": ["I mean to quit the land of Hindustan;", "Will you consent to flee with me to Iran?"]}, {"id": "D10.34.8", "lines": ["I will take you with me, but none must know", "Among this folk which road we mean to go."]}, {"id": "D10.34.9", "lines": ["In Iran, I enjoy a higher state;", "The Maker aids me with His farr so great."]}, {"id": "D10.34.10", "lines": ["Should you go with me, wisdom guides your will;", "Your choice will guard your honor from all ill."]}, {"id": "D10.34.11", "lines": ["In every place your title shall be queen;", "Your father shall kneel where your throne is seen.”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.12", "lines": ["She said, “Exalted man, let wisdom guide", "Your steps; do not cast prudent thought aside."]}, {"id": "D10.34.13", "lines": ["The best of women is the wife whose grace", "Keeps smiles forever on her husband’s face."]}, {"id": "D10.34.14", "lines": ["Though my pure soul recoil at your command,", "I will not turn from what your will has planned.”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.15", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Then shape a hidden way,", "But speak to no one of the coming day.”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.16", "lines": ["She said, “O you who merit crown and reign,", "With Fortune’s aid, a path we shall obtain."]}, {"id": "D10.34.17", "lines": ["Nearby, my father holds a sacred feast;", "Within the woods he gathers great and least."]}, {"id": "D10.34.18", "lines": ["They deem that place auspicious, set apart;", "An idol stands there, fashioned by their art."]}, {"id": "D10.34.19", "lines": ["The forest lies some twenty farsang away;", "Before the idols men must weep and pray."]}, {"id": "D10.34.20", "lines": ["That place is made for hunting Gur-e-Khar;", "Ghanooj’s horsemen feast there, riding far."]}, {"id": "D10.34.21", "lines": ["The king and army fill that forest ground;", "No other man may cross its guarded bound."]}, {"id": "D10.34.22", "lines": ["Then go, if you are minded to depart;", "Live long, still young in spirit and in heart."]}, {"id": "D10.34.23", "lines": ["Wait five days more; when morning lights the skies,", "And on the sun’s bright crown you set your eyes,"]}, {"id": "D10.34.24", "lines": ["When from the city he has gone away,", "Make ready then to take the homeward way.”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.25", "lines": ["He told his wife, “Prepare, and tell no one;", "Our road is chosen; let the deed be done.”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.26", "lines": ["The festive ground was readied, tent by tent;", "The nobles rose, and from the city went."]}, {"id": "D10.34.27", "lines": ["When King Shangul prepared to take the road,", "Fair Sapinud approached his high abode:"]}, {"id": "D10.34.28", "lines": ["“Barzvi is sick and begs to be excused;", "Let not the royal favor be refused."]}, {"id": "D10.34.29", "lines": ["He says, ‘A banquet ill accords with pain;", "Forgive your servant if he must remain.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.30", "lines": ["Shangul replied, “Let no sick man be pressed;", "The ailing should be left in peace and rest.”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.31", "lines": ["At dawn he left Ghanooj to reach the fair;", "When night came, Bahram said, “Now, wife, prepare.”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.32", "lines": ["He donned his jowshan, mounted as he planned,", "With kamand strapped and gorz held firm in hand,"]}, {"id": "D10.34.33", "lines": ["Then helped Sapinud mount and breathed a prayer,", "God’s name a murmur on the midnight air."]}, {"id": "D10.34.34", "lines": ["Bahram rode out and neared the river’s flow,", "Where merchant caravans were camped below."]}, {"id": "D10.34.35", "lines": ["The merchants were Iranians, men who bore", "The risks of land and sea from shore to shore."]}, {"id": "D10.34.36", "lines": ["They knew him, and he bit his lip in dread;", "He feared the news of who he was might spread."]}, {"id": "D10.34.37", "lines": ["He would not let them bow before his face;", "His comrades must not know his royal place."]}, {"id": "D10.34.38", "lines": ["He told the merchants, “Keep your lips sealed tight;", "On this depend our profit, loss, and flight."]}, {"id": "D10.34.39", "lines": ["For if this secret spreads through Hindustan,", "A sea of blood will cover soil of Iran."]}, {"id": "D10.34.40", "lines": ["Great is the man who keeps all secrets sound,", "Whose hand stays open while his tongue is bound."]}, {"id": "D10.34.41", "lines": ["By solemn oath I bind your tongues from speech", "Until again the royal throne I reach."]}, {"id": "D10.34.42", "lines": ["Swear, ‘We shall not forsake King Bahram’s way,", "Nor ever let his secret see the day.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.43", "lines": ["When they had bound themselves by that strict vow,", "The Shah’s deep care was lifted from his brow."]}, {"id": "D10.34.44", "lines": ["He said, “This trust I place with you is dear;", "Guard it like life, and heed the words you hear."]}, {"id": "D10.34.45", "lines": ["If through my loss the throne should lose its king,", "Armed troops from every side will ruin bring."]}, {"id": "D10.34.46", "lines": ["They will leave neither merchant, king, nor peer,", "Nor army, throne, or crown surviving here.”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.47", "lines": ["When they perceived the danger drawing near,", "Their cheeks grew wet with many a loyal tear."]}, {"id": "D10.34.48", "lines": ["They said, “May all our lives your ransom be;", "May youth and kingship keep you safe and free."]}, {"id": "D10.34.49", "lines": ["If this royal secret ever came to light,", "Our country would be drowned in bloody fight."]}, {"id": "D10.34.50", "lines": ["Who dares conceive a scheme so ill-advised,", "And cast away the wisdom once he prized?”"]}, {"id": "D10.34.51", "lines": ["The Shah praised all the merchants, one and each,", "Whose faith and honor passed the reach of speech."]}, {"id": "D10.34.52", "lines": ["He reached the riverbank without delay,", "Where moored beside the reeds a ferry lay."]}, {"id": "D10.34.53", "lines": ["He loosed the skiff upon the rolling tide,", "And placed fair Sapinud secure inside."]}, {"id": "D10.34.54", "lines": ["They crossed the stream before the night was done;", "At dawn they reached the bank beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "D10.35.1", "lines": ["A horseman rode from Ghanooj with the tale", "That Shah Bahram had fled beyond the pale."]}, {"id": "D10.35.2", "lines": ["Shangul received it from the loyal scout,", "And from the feast, like fire, came charging out."]}, {"id": "D10.35.3", "lines": ["He hurried on until he reached the tide,", "And saw brave Bahram on the farther side."]}, {"id": "D10.35.4", "lines": ["He saw fair Sapinud the Shah beside;", "Grief turned his heart to wrath he could not hide."]}, {"id": "D10.35.5", "lines": ["He crossed the river, wrathful, dark of face,", "And poured abuse upon her in that place."]}, {"id": "D10.35.6", "lines": ["“O shameless girl, you crossed the river wide,", "As bold as lions, with this fraud at your side."]}, {"id": "D10.35.7", "lines": ["You seek Iran, concealed from me; you choose", "Its ruins, with a paradise to lose."]}, {"id": "D10.35.8", "lines": ["Now you shall feel my javelin strike a blow,", "Since from my side you chose in stealth to go.”"]}, {"id": "D10.35.9", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “O man of evil mind,", "Why ride as though your wits were left behind?"]}, {"id": "D10.35.10", "lines": ["You have seen how I stand in sport and war;", "My cup and sword were both well proved before."]}, {"id": "D10.35.11", "lines": ["A hundred thousand Indians in the fray", "Count less than one lone rider in my way."]}, {"id": "D10.35.12", "lines": ["Myself and thirty horsemen at my side,", "All mailed, with Persian blades, would crush your pride."]}, {"id": "D10.35.13", "lines": ["We will fill Indian eyes with flowing blood,", "And spare no soul if wrath becomes a flood.”"]}, {"id": "D10.35.14", "lines": ["Shangul knew well that he had spoken true;", "His prowess and his valor stood in view."]}, {"id": "D10.35.15", "lines": ["Yet he replied, “I set my kin apart,", "And placed you over children in my heart."]}, {"id": "D10.35.16", "lines": ["I held you like a crown, my highest prize,", "And dearer than the sight within my eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.35.17", "lines": ["I gave the bride whom you yourself had sought;", "The right is mine, and yours the wrong you wrought."]}, {"id": "D10.35.18", "lines": ["For loyalty you paid me back with shame;", "Has faithfulness been answered so with blame?"]}, {"id": "D10.35.19", "lines": ["What shall I say? I held you as my son,", "And thought you wise in all that you had done."]}, {"id": "D10.35.20", "lines": ["Now you have grown a horseman, bold and great,", "And think yourself a man of high estate."]}, {"id": "D10.35.21", "lines": ["What has an Iranian heart to do with trust?", "It answers yes, while meaning turns to dust."]}, {"id": "D10.35.22", "lines": ["You were a lion’s cub, washed for your gain", "In nurses’ heart’s blood, cleansing every stain."]}, {"id": "D10.35.23", "lines": ["Once fangs and claws had grown, the beast would rise", "Against the hand that fed it before men’s eyes.”"]}, {"id": "D10.35.24", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “You know me; why, then, blame", "My heart as false, and brand me with that name?"]}, {"id": "D10.35.25", "lines": ["No blame can follow from the path I chose;", "No stain of treachery from my conduct grows."]}, {"id": "D10.35.26", "lines": ["I rule Iran and Turan far and wide;", "I am the brave men’s pillar and their guide."]}, {"id": "D10.35.27", "lines": ["I will repay you, strike your foemen down,", "And seat you as a father near my crown."]}, {"id": "D10.35.28", "lines": ["I will not vex your realm with tribute’s claim;", "Your child shall rise to queenly rank and fame."]}, {"id": "D10.35.29", "lines": ["She shall be luster of the western land,", "And crown of women, honored by my hand.”"]}, {"id": "D10.35.30", "lines": ["Astonished, King Shangul laid his turban by,", "And spurred toward the Shah with lowered eye."]}, {"id": "D10.35.31", "lines": ["He reached the Shah and begged him to forgive,", "Then clasped him, overjoyed to see him live."]}, {"id": "D10.35.32", "lines": ["In joy he spread the banquet board again,", "And brought the cup, and cheered his fellow men."]}, {"id": "D10.35.33", "lines": ["Then Bahram told Shangul what lay concealed,", "And what the men of Iran had revealed."]}, {"id": "D10.35.34", "lines": ["He told what deeds and counsels led him through,", "And who had shown him what he ought to do."]}, {"id": "D10.35.35", "lines": ["When drinking ended, both rose from the board,", "And each asked pardon of the other lord."]}, {"id": "D10.36.1", "lines": ["The two kings joined their hands that solemn day;", "One served Yazdan; one served the gods of clay."]}, {"id": "D10.36.2", "lines": ["They pledged, “From this day on, we shall not stray", "From truth or turn our hearts from wisdom’s way."]}, {"id": "D10.36.3", "lines": ["We will uproot the hidden roots of guile,", "Keep faith, and heed what sages teach the while.”"]}, {"id": "D10.36.4", "lines": ["Shangul embraced his daughter as he left;", "They clung together, woven warp and weft."]}, {"id": "D10.36.5", "lines": ["The two kings quickly turned their backs and went,", "Their rancor cast to dust with full consent."]}, {"id": "D10.36.6", "lines": ["One took dry land, one sought the river’s flow;", "Both glad at heart and eager now to go."]}, {"id": "D10.36.7", "lines": ["When tidings came from Ghanooj, heralds cried,", "“The Shah returns, his army at his side.”"]}, {"id": "D10.36.8", "lines": ["They decked the roads and cities as they chose,", "And musk and saffron everywhere arose."]}, {"id": "D10.36.9", "lines": ["They scattered money too along the way,", "To greet the Shah with splendor on that day."]}, {"id": "D10.36.10", "lines": ["All bowed their heads and praised the Shah aloud,", "Their hearts turned toward him in the gathered crowd."]}, {"id": "D10.36.11", "lines": ["When Yazdegard, the young prince, heard, he rallied", "The scattered army, and at once they sallied."]}, {"id": "D10.36.12", "lines": ["With Narsi and the high Mobad beside,", "He rode with sages to the Shah in pride."]}, {"id": "D10.36.13", "lines": ["When Yazdegard drew near, his father found", "His son with face pressed low against the ground."]}, {"id": "D10.36.14", "lines": ["His brother Narsi and the Mobad came,", "With dust upon their cheeks and hearts aflame."]}, {"id": "D10.36.15", "lines": ["Their hearts bloomed like spring flowers newly grown,", "As he returned to his forefathers’ throne."]}, {"id": "D10.36.16", "lines": ["Thus Shah Bahram came back into his hall,", "And gave to God his soul and body all."]}, {"id": "D10.36.17", "lines": ["He rested when the world grew dark; revealed", "Above, the moon shone like a silver shield."]}, {"id": "D10.36.18", "lines": ["When daylight tore the robe of night apart,", "The world’s Light rose and brightened every heart."]}, {"id": "D10.36.19", "lines": ["The king of kings sat crowned in golden state,", "Gave audience, silent, grave, and sedate."]}, {"id": "D10.36.20", "lines": ["The nobles came, the learned men of lore,", "And princes of the empire filled the door."]}, {"id": "D10.36.21", "lines": ["Then rose the righteous Shah, serene and bold,", "And from the throne his royal counsel told."]}, {"id": "D10.36.22", "lines": ["He first praised God, Creator of all things,", "Then gave the counsel that true wisdom brings."]}, {"id": "D10.36.23", "lines": ["He said, “Revere the Almighty, in whose sight", "The hidden and the manifest are bright."]}, {"id": "D10.36.24", "lines": ["Praise Him, and lift to Him your prayer at night,", "For He gives victory, power, and light."]}, {"id": "D10.36.25", "lines": ["Yazdan is Lord of sun and moon on high;", "All fortune moves beneath His watching sky."]}, {"id": "D10.36.26", "lines": ["All you who seek the path toward heaven’s gate,", "Avoid the deeds that darken man’s estate."]}, {"id": "D10.36.27", "lines": ["Where justice, bounty, righteousness are found,", "The heart turns free from guile and loss profound."]}, {"id": "D10.36.28", "lines": ["Let no man fear me, though his wealth increase", "In hills of gold and silver without cease."]}, {"id": "D10.36.29", "lines": ["Expel all fear from out your hearts today,", "And seek increase of good in every way."]}, {"id": "D10.36.30", "lines": ["The peasant and the noble are the same", "When I sit judge and weigh each deed and name."]}, {"id": "D10.36.31", "lines": ["If I have given crown and throne to one,", "Know God, just rule, and Fortune willed it done."]}, {"id": "D10.36.32", "lines": ["And thus, God willing, will my heart grow bright,", "And Fortune smile upon my throne with light."]}, {"id": "D10.36.33", "lines": ["By this I shall increase your blessed state,", "And guide you all toward Fortune’s open gate."]}, {"id": "D10.36.34", "lines": ["I will not strive to fill my treasury more,", "Nor scatter those who gather at my door."]}, {"id": "D10.36.35", "lines": ["I will store justice, that, when I am dust,", "My soul may find its joy among the just."]}, {"id": "D10.36.36", "lines": ["Whoever bore oppression from my men,", "Officials, kin, or warriors, now and then,"]}, {"id": "D10.36.37", "lines": ["Yet told me nothing, hiding knavish wrong,", "Has shared the crime by silence held too long."]}, {"id": "D10.36.38", "lines": ["I call on God to judge the man who shrouds", "The shining moon behind concealing clouds."]}, {"id": "D10.36.39", "lines": ["But if your will is different, speak it clear,", "For each man’s nature shapes the hopes held dear."]}, {"id": "D10.36.40", "lines": ["Speak freely; tell me what you wish to earn,", "That your old longings may to life return."]}, {"id": "D10.36.41", "lines": ["Attend to me, and do what I command,", "And find your souls’ peace underneath my hand.”"]}, {"id": "D10.36.42", "lines": ["Thus spoke the Shah, then sat in royal might;", "The crown of greatness shone with boundless light."]}, {"id": "D10.36.43", "lines": ["The nobles praised him: “May your crown endure;", "May signet, throne, and fortune stand secure."]}, {"id": "D10.36.44", "lines": ["When wisdom guides a king whom fortunes bless,", "His realm and throne take pride in his success."]}, {"id": "D10.36.45", "lines": ["But in you, courage, knowledge, farr, and worth", "Are greater than the royal throne on earth."]}, {"id": "D10.36.46", "lines": ["In greatness, noble nature, royal race,", "The world recalls no king to fill your place."]}, {"id": "D10.36.47", "lines": ["To bless you is a duty on us all;", "Each one of us stands ready at your call."]}, {"id": "D10.36.48", "lines": ["To God we offer thanks for all you do,", "And tell the freeborn men our thanks to you."]}, {"id": "D10.36.49", "lines": ["This throne is yours by merit, earned through might,", "Through justice and through victory in fight."]}, {"id": "D10.36.50", "lines": ["You raised the dead from dust by justice shown,", "By generous speech and bounty freely sown."]}, {"id": "D10.36.51", "lines": ["May God Almighty ever be your shield,", "And Fortune’s star its light forever yield.”"]}, {"id": "D10.36.52", "lines": ["The mighty men and sages left with song,", "Then Shah Bahram with troops moved soon along."]}, {"id": "D10.36.53", "lines": ["He reached Azargashasp, the sacred Fire,", "And gave the poor their every heart’s desire."]}, {"id": "D10.36.54", "lines": ["He gave them gold and gems, but gave still more", "To those who hid the poverty they bore."]}, {"id": "D10.36.55", "lines": ["A priest of Zoroaster’s Fire held sprays", "Of sacred twigs and murmured words of praise."]}, {"id": "D10.36.56", "lines": ["The Shah brought Sapinud to learn the creed;", "The priest then taught the faith in word and deed."]}, {"id": "D10.36.57", "lines": ["With pure clean water and the Good Faith’s grace,", "He washed the dust and tarnish from her face."]}, {"id": "D10.36.58", "lines": ["He opened up the prisons, freed the bound,", "And scattered silver coins to all around."]}, {"id": "D10.37.1", "lines": ["From Sapinud, Shangul received report", "Of Shah Bahram and life within his court."]}, {"id": "D10.37.2", "lines": ["He longed to journey to Iran, and gaze", "On Sapinud, the Shah’s queen, crowned with praise."]}, {"id": "D10.37.3", "lines": ["He sent a learned Indian, grave and wise,", "An envoy skilled in speech and courtly guise."]}, {"id": "D10.37.4", "lines": ["He sought a fresh agreement from the throne,", "To keep at home, a record of his own."]}, {"id": "D10.37.5", "lines": ["The Shah had one prepared, both just and right;", "Its words like sun in Paradise shone bright."]}, {"id": "D10.37.6", "lines": ["The Shah himself had penned each written line", "In Pahlavi, a pledge of his design."]}, {"id": "D10.37.7", "lines": ["To Shangul’s court the envoy went, and gained", "Ghanooj, where jeweled splendor still remained."]}, {"id": "D10.37.8", "lines": ["On reading all that Shah Bahram had sent,", "Shangul prepared at once with firm intent."]}, {"id": "D10.37.9", "lines": ["From all his kith and kin he hid his plan;", "No word escaped before the march began."]}, {"id": "D10.37.10", "lines": ["Seven great kings rode with him in his train,", "Escorting Raja Shangul through the plain."]}, {"id": "D10.37.11", "lines": ["The kings of Kabul, Sind, and Jogman rode,", "Their rank and fortune in their bearing showed;"]}, {"id": "D10.37.12", "lines": ["The lord of Sandali, in royal state,", "And Jandal’s monarch, powerful and great;"]}, {"id": "D10.37.13", "lines": ["The prince of Kashmir, honored and renowned,", "And Multan’s king, with gold and glory crowned."]}, {"id": "D10.37.14", "lines": ["All sought high honor, all wore crowns of gold,", "With torques and earrings wrought in royal mold."]}, {"id": "D10.37.15", "lines": ["With mighty elephants and bells that rang,", "They rode beneath their parasols; gongs sang."]}, {"id": "D10.37.16", "lines": ["Their silver, gold, and gems flashed everywhere;", "Peacock-plumed parasols moved through the air."]}, {"id": "D10.37.17", "lines": ["Their elephants wore housings rich in braid,", "And long lines of bright offerings were displayed."]}, {"id": "D10.37.18", "lines": ["They brought the Shah such tribute, rich and vast,", "That gold dinars seemed worthless as they passed."]}, {"id": "D10.37.19", "lines": ["Thus King Shangul and seven kings of might", "Went stage by stage in royal splendor bright."]}, {"id": "D10.37.20", "lines": ["When they approached Iran, a shining band,", "With precious equipage on every hand,"]}, {"id": "D10.37.21", "lines": ["The Shah, informed that they were drawing near,", "Arrayed his troops to welcome them with cheer."]}, {"id": "D10.37.22", "lines": ["The chiefs of every city went ahead,", "To greet those kings where royal pathways led."]}, {"id": "D10.37.23", "lines": ["His wisdom old, his fortune young and bright,", "The Shah rode out, alert, with keen foresight."]}, {"id": "D10.37.24", "lines": ["He rode as far as Nahravan’s broad land,", "And brought his nobles under his command."]}, {"id": "D10.37.25", "lines": ["The two exalted kings approached; each one", "Was famed, illustrious, fortune’s favored son."]}, {"id": "D10.37.26", "lines": ["They both dismounted when they met that day,", "And exchanged greetings in the royal way."]}, {"id": "D10.37.27", "lines": ["They both embraced before the assembled crowd,", "While shining retinues stood tall and proud."]}, {"id": "D10.37.28", "lines": ["Their followers dismounted rank by rank;", "The plain rang joy from river-road to bank."]}, {"id": "D10.37.29", "lines": ["Much speech of high and low affairs arose,", "When those two kingdoms joined as friends, not foes."]}, {"id": "D10.37.30", "lines": ["They both remounted, and their famous men,", "Their honored troops, took up the road again."]}, {"id": "D10.37.31", "lines": ["A golden throne was readied in the hall,", "With royal fabrics spread across it all."]}, {"id": "D10.37.32", "lines": ["He spread a board an arrow’s flight in length,", "With roasted lamb and fowl to give them strength."]}, {"id": "D10.37.33", "lines": ["When food was done, they decked the hall with flowers,", "And scent and color filled its courts and bowers."]}, {"id": "D10.37.34", "lines": ["He set out wine and bade the minstrels play,", "And filled the cups in glittering array."]}, {"id": "D10.37.35", "lines": ["The handmaids and the slave-boys stood around;", "Throne, hall, and palace seemed by heaven crowned."]}, {"id": "D10.37.36", "lines": ["The cups were crystal, gold the trays that bore", "Sweet musk and incense through the palace door."]}, {"id": "D10.37.37", "lines": ["The wine-server wore shoes with jewels bright,", "And on his head a gold crown caught the light."]}, {"id": "D10.37.38", "lines": ["King Shangul gazed around him, all amazed,", "And pondered as the golden goblets blazed:"]}, {"id": "D10.37.39", "lines": ["“Is this Iran a paradise in bloom,", "Where friends breathe musk through every garden-room?”"]}, {"id": "D10.37.40", "lines": ["Then to the Shah in confidence he cried,", "“Let me behold my daughter at your side.”"]}, {"id": "D10.37.41", "lines": ["Bahram commanded eunuchs in his train", "To lead the king where she might ease his pain."]}, {"id": "D10.37.42", "lines": ["That noble king went with them, and he found", "Another palace like spring’s blossoming ground."]}, {"id": "D10.37.43", "lines": ["He saw her on an ivory throne, arrayed", "In royal splendor, with her crown displayed."]}, {"id": "D10.37.44", "lines": ["He pressed her cheek to his and kissed her head;", "Through tears and whispers, joy between them spread."]}, {"id": "D10.37.45", "lines": ["The fair one wept for him with equal woe;", "He rubbed his hands, admiring all the show."]}, {"id": "D10.37.46", "lines": ["He said, “Behold this paradise displayed;", "You left a foul and wretched house of shade.”"]}, {"id": "D10.37.47", "lines": ["The gifts he brought with him, the treasures stored,", "The crowns, the slaves, the gems in many a hoard,"]}, {"id": "D10.37.48", "lines": ["The priceless raiment, costly beyond thought,", "He gave to her with all the wealth he brought."]}, {"id": "D10.37.49", "lines": ["That joyful home became like spring in bloom;", "Then he returned to Bahram’s banquet-room."]}, {"id": "D10.37.50", "lines": ["When lords grew merry with the flowing bowl,", "Shangul withdrew to rest, and eased his soul."]}, {"id": "D10.37.51", "lines": ["When musk-dark veils appeared across the sky,", "With stars like leopard-spots before the eye,"]}, {"id": "D10.37.52", "lines": ["The feasters, drowsy, sank into repose;", "While servants stood on guard in ordered rows."]}, {"id": "D10.37.53", "lines": ["So passed the night until that cup of gold,", "The sun, arose for all eyes to behold."]}, {"id": "D10.37.54", "lines": ["It cast away its dusky robe of gloom,", "And spread the plain with topaz-colored bloom."]}, {"id": "D10.37.55", "lines": ["Then valiant Shah Bahram rode out that day,", "With kings of Sind and Sandali, for prey."]}, {"id": "D10.37.56", "lines": ["With cheetahs, hawks, and falcons trained to fly,", "They hunted through the fields beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D10.37.57", "lines": ["For one full month no sorrow touched their breast;", "No pain or weariness disturbed their rest."]}, {"id": "D10.37.58", "lines": ["They turned their faces from the hunting plain,", "And hastened back to feast with all their train."]}, {"id": "D10.37.59", "lines": ["Through hunt and feast and polo’s merry round,", "Shangul beside the Shah was always found."]}, {"id": "D10.37.60", "lines": ["At length, when many joyful days were spent,", "The Indian king made ready, homeward bent."]}, {"id": "D10.37.61", "lines": ["He sought his daughter with a loving heart,", "And stayed with her a while before his start."]}, {"id": "D10.37.62", "lines": ["He called a slave-boy, ordered pen and sheet,", "Then chose his words in musk-black ink, discreet."]}, {"id": "D10.37.63", "lines": ["He wrote in Indian script a formal deed,", "In Pahlavi’s manner, clear for all to read,"]}, {"id": "D10.37.64", "lines": ["First praising Him who cleansed the world of pain,", "And spread out justice over every plain,"]}, {"id": "D10.37.65", "lines": ["Who gave the Fiend black lies and loss to bear,", "And showed the face of righteousness laid bare:"]}, {"id": "D10.37.66", "lines": ["“I gave my daughter Sapinud as wife", "To Shah Bahram; may kingship bless his life."]}, {"id": "D10.37.67", "lines": ["Long live the Shah; may every noble stand", "In service to his throne and his command."]}, {"id": "D10.37.68", "lines": ["When I depart this world and yield my breath,", "Let Bahram rule Ghanooj upon my death."]}, {"id": "D10.37.69", "lines": ["Obey this king, and honor my desire:", "When I am dead, convey me to the fire."]}, {"id": "D10.37.70", "lines": ["Give him my treasure, realm, and palace all,", "My throne and crown, when death shall make me fall.”"]}, {"id": "D10.37.71", "lines": ["He gave to Sapinud the deed he made,", "In Indian script on silken cloth displayed."]}, {"id": "D10.38.1", "lines": ["Shangul remained two months in Iran’s land,", "Then sent a noble seeking the Shah’s command."]}, {"id": "D10.38.2", "lines": ["He asked permission to depart for home,", "With counselors who served beneath his dome."]}, {"id": "D10.38.3", "lines": ["The king of kings allowed the Indian lord", "To seek Ghanooj by plain and river ford."]}, {"id": "D10.38.4", "lines": ["He bade a wise Mobad select the prime", "Of Iran’s treasures, gathered over time:"]}, {"id": "D10.38.5", "lines": ["Dinars and gems, bright silver, thrones, and gold,", "Crowns, swords, and girdles, brocade fold on fold,"]}, {"id": "D10.38.6", "lines": ["Uncut rich stuffs and gifts beyond all count,", "Such wealth as royal treasuries could mount."]}, {"id": "D10.38.7", "lines": ["For Shangul’s suite he furnished each degree", "With steeds and Chinese brocade fair to see."]}, {"id": "D10.38.8", "lines": ["He sent them happy, honored, and content,", "And three full stages with Shangul he went."]}, {"id": "D10.38.9", "lines": ["Besides those gifts, provisions he supplied", "Until they reached the Indian frontier’s side."]}, {"id": "D10.38.10", "lines": ["When Shah Bahram returned, he sat in peace", "Upon the throne, yet grief refused to cease."]}, {"id": "D10.38.11", "lines": ["He mused on death and Fortune’s evil blow", "Until his heart ached and his face sank low."]}, {"id": "D10.38.12", "lines": ["He called a scribe, a Mobad wise and famed,", "A grave, high-born vizier whom all acclaimed."]}, {"id": "D10.38.13", "lines": ["He told him, “Reckon all my treasure-hoard:", "Its gold, gems, cloth, and every robe it stored."]}, {"id": "D10.38.14", "lines": ["Astrologers have warned me to prepare;", "Their prophecy is heavy now to bear."]}, {"id": "D10.38.15", "lines": ["They said, ‘Your life will last three score of years;", "The fourth shall bring your death and mourners’ tears.’"]}, {"id": "D10.38.16", "lines": ["I answered, ‘First, for twenty years I live", "In joy, and let delight its green shoot give."]}, {"id": "D10.38.17", "lines": ["The next I will make just the world I hold,", "With open hand and secret gifts of gold."]}, {"id": "D10.38.18", "lines": ["No corner of my realm shall know neglect;", "I will provide for all whom I protect."]}, {"id": "D10.38.19", "lines": ["The third I will in prayer before Him stand;", "Perhaps He will direct my heart and hand.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.20", "lines": ["The astrologers had named three score and three,", "What those last years might bring, none could foresee."]}, {"id": "D10.38.21", "lines": ["The prophecy had filled his heart with pain,", "Though heaps of treasure graced his royal reign."]}, {"id": "D10.38.22", "lines": ["How blessed the man, devout, who lives at ease;", "Still more the king who knows such joys as these."]}, {"id": "D10.38.23", "lines": ["The treasurer heard and went to count the store,", "And labored hard through every guarded door."]}, {"id": "D10.38.24", "lines": ["He toiled until the count was all enrolled,", "Then gave the minister the sum in gold."]}, {"id": "D10.38.25", "lines": ["The minister came near the Shah, and told", "The sum with reverence, in words controlled:"]}, {"id": "D10.38.26", "lines": ["“For twenty-three full years, in very deed,", "You will have wealth enough for every need."]}, {"id": "D10.38.27", "lines": ["I counted food and largess, and the pay", "Of famous troops arrayed in bright display,"]}, {"id": "D10.38.28", "lines": ["For envoys whom the distant monarchs send,", "And those your realm’s renowned men here commend."]}, {"id": "D10.38.29", "lines": ["For all these years, your treasury is filled", "With silver, gold, and goods your Fortune willed.”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.30", "lines": ["Bahram heard this and pondered what was said,", "Too wise to grieve for days not yet ahead."]}, {"id": "D10.38.31", "lines": ["He answered, “Put aside your hesitation;", "Three days comprise the world’s entire duration."]}, {"id": "D10.38.32", "lines": ["Three days: first yesterday, now passed away;", "Tomorrow, still to come; and then today."]}, {"id": "D10.38.33", "lines": ["Today I will not bow beneath dull care;", "With ivory throne and wealth enough to share,"]}, {"id": "D10.38.34", "lines": ["I will exact no property tax more;", "Let no collector knock at any door.”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.35", "lines": ["He ordered that no land tax more be laid", "On great or small, and all its claims be stayed."]}, {"id": "D10.38.36", "lines": ["In every city he chose men to keep", "A watch, and rouse the heedless from their sleep,"]}, {"id": "D10.38.37", "lines": ["And curb all strife, from which no profit springs,", "But only pain and dark, destructive things."]}, {"id": "D10.38.38", "lines": ["He gave wise Mobadan the boon they sought,", "Their food and clothing from the treasury brought,"]}, {"id": "D10.38.39", "lines": ["With draperies and every payment due,", "Then charged them with the work they had to do:"]}, {"id": "D10.38.40", "lines": ["“Hide nothing from me, whether good or ill;", "Report the truth according to your skill."]}, {"id": "D10.38.41", "lines": ["Judge men’s disputes, and ask no fee or prize", "From those whose quarrels come before your eyes."]}, {"id": "D10.38.42", "lines": ["Report both good and ill with all due speed;", "Let no dark plot of wicked men succeed.”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.43", "lines": ["The Mobadan spread through the realm to learn", "Each good and evil deed at every turn."]}, {"id": "D10.38.44", "lines": ["Those sages governed all beneath command,", "Yet letters came from every troubled land:"]}, {"id": "D10.38.45", "lines": ["“Through bounty, idleness, and swollen wealth,", "Men’s minds have lost their balance and their health."]}, {"id": "D10.38.46", "lines": ["Such strife and bloodshed fill the realm with hate,", "That youths no longer honor rank or fate."]}, {"id": "D10.38.47", "lines": ["Their hearts are filled with every reckless thing,", "But no regard for priest or Shah or king.”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.48", "lines": ["When letters of this kind reached Bahram’s sight,", "The news of bloodshed struck his heart with fright."]}, {"id": "D10.38.49", "lines": ["In every province he chose men of care,", "Wise officers whom knowledge made aware."]}, {"id": "D10.38.50", "lines": ["He gave them food and clothing from his store,", "And furnishings, that they should need no more."]}, {"id": "D10.38.51", "lines": ["For six full months he kept the ledgers true,", "And took from every subject silver due."]}, {"id": "D10.38.52", "lines": ["He called the silver ‘tax’; in royal state,", "Collectors took it, men of rank and weight."]}, {"id": "D10.38.53", "lines": ["Six months he took, then six returned the flow;", "Collectors found no profit there to show."]}, {"id": "D10.38.54", "lines": ["In this way he restrained the men of war", "From bloodshed and from evil evermore."]}, {"id": "D10.38.55", "lines": ["Again his agents wrote: “Your bounteous reign", "Has bred disorder through excessive gain."]}, {"id": "D10.38.56", "lines": ["Wealth brings no tax to pay, but breeds dispute;", "Within their minds fresh quarrels now take root."]}, {"id": "D10.38.57", "lines": ["Instead of calm, they have grown harsh and cruel;", "All now are quarrelsome and hard to rule.”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.58", "lines": ["When Bahram Goor had read that letter through,", "His heart was troubled by the deeds he knew."]}, {"id": "D10.38.59", "lines": ["He chose a marzban, just, of judgment sure,", "For every province, guarding rich and poor."]}, {"id": "D10.38.60", "lines": ["He ordered, “Judge by God’s decree all those", "Who shed men’s blood or righteous law oppose,"]}, {"id": "D10.38.61", "lines": ["That all may find their means of livelihood,", "And turn their hearts from harm toward what is good.”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.62", "lines": ["Much time passed by; the monarch sent his word", "To those whose truthful reports he had heard."]}, {"id": "D10.38.63", "lines": ["He asked those truthful men in every land,", "“What harms the realm, and mars what I have planned?”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.64", "lines": ["They answered, “Through the monarch’s gifts today,", "No man observes old rule or proper way."]}, {"id": "D10.38.65", "lines": ["No thought or care for tilth or toil remains,", "Though men derive their worth from fields and grains."]}, {"id": "D10.38.66", "lines": ["We see the draft oxen wander loose at will,", "While weeds and herbage choke the farm and hill.”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.67", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Until the sun stands high", "At noon, let no one put his labors by."]}, {"id": "D10.38.68", "lines": ["The day’s remaining half is made for rest;", "Who scorns this measured rule is folly’s guest."]}, {"id": "D10.38.69", "lines": ["If any lacks fruit, seed, or oxen sound,", "Be kind and help him till his fruitful ground."]}, {"id": "D10.38.70", "lines": ["Supply his needs from out the royal store,", "That want may burden no one anymore."]}, {"id": "D10.38.71", "lines": ["If weather causes loss to field or grain—", "No man can rule the weather or the rain—"]}, {"id": "D10.38.72", "lines": ["Or locusts strip the earth and leave it plain,", "And sweep away the green, and none remain,"]}, {"id": "D10.38.73", "lines": ["Pay from the treasury: let loss be healed;", "Let every province hear my laws revealed."]}, {"id": "D10.38.74", "lines": ["On burial grounds and lands that bear no yield,", "Or any plot that lies a fallow field,"]}, {"id": "D10.38.75", "lines": ["Whether the owner’s rank be high or low,", "No tax shall fall; let all my servants know."]}, {"id": "D10.38.76", "lines": ["If any agent takes a coin from these,", "Though he be one I raised to wealth and ease,"]}, {"id": "D10.38.77", "lines": ["I will entomb alive the man so found;", "Let him possess no home above the ground.”"]}, {"id": "D10.38.78", "lines": ["The royal seal confirmed the Shah’s command;", "Swift camel couriers spread it through the land."]}, {"id": "D10.39.1", "lines": ["Thereafter Bahram wrote to every sage,", "And sent his questions on the written page."]}, {"id": "D10.39.2", "lines": ["He clothed the poor and asked, “Throughout my land,", "Who lives at ease, whom does distress command?"]}, {"id": "D10.39.3", "lines": ["Who now is penniless, in want and need?", "Speak truth to me, and hide no word or deed."]}, {"id": "D10.39.4", "lines": ["Tell me how matters stand throughout the earth,", "And guide my heart toward wisdom, light, and worth.”"]}, {"id": "D10.39.5", "lines": ["Replies came back from sages of the realm,", "From noble chiefs who held the kingdom’s helm:"]}, {"id": "D10.39.6", "lines": ["“The face of earth is prosperous; it teems", "With constant blessings, like abundant streams."]}, {"id": "D10.39.7", "lines": ["Save that the poor complain of Fortune’s wrong,", "And of the Shah, whose arm is just and strong."]}, {"id": "D10.39.8", "lines": ["They say, ‘The rich wear roses while they dine,", "And hear the lute while drinking fragrant wine."]}, {"id": "D10.39.9", "lines": ["But as for us, they count us not as men;", "We drink, but hear no strains of music then."]}, {"id": "D10.39.10", "lines": ["No rose is ours, no lute beside the bowl;", "The wealthy tend the pleasures of their soul.’”"]}, {"id": "D10.39.11", "lines": ["The Shah laughed heartily at this report,", "And sent a camel-post to Shangul’s court."]}, {"id": "D10.39.12", "lines": ["He wrote, “O king, whose generous gifts are famed,", "Let ten thousand skilled Luris now be named."]}, {"id": "D10.39.13", "lines": ["Choose men and women who can play the lute;", "Let all be masters of that skilled pursuit.”"]}, {"id": "D10.39.14", "lines": ["When they arrived, the Shah received the folk,", "And gave to each an ox to bear the yoke."]}, {"id": "D10.39.15", "lines": ["An ass he gave to each for loads to bear,", "And bade them farm the land with skill and care."]}, {"id": "D10.39.16", "lines": ["His officers gave wheat enough to sow,", "A thousand loads, to make their harvest grow."]}, {"id": "D10.39.17", "lines": ["“They shall use ox and ass to work the field,", "And sow this wheat to make the harvest yield."]}, {"id": "D10.39.18", "lines": ["Besides, they shall make music for the poor,", "And ask no fee, that pleasure may endure.”"]}, {"id": "D10.39.19", "lines": ["The Luris ate the wheat and oxen too;", "A year passed; pale of face, to him they drew."]}, {"id": "D10.39.20", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Yours was not the farmer’s toil,", "To scatter seed and reap the fruitful soil."]}, {"id": "D10.39.21", "lines": ["Your asses still remain; now load and sing,", "And make the silken strings of music ring.”"]}, {"id": "D10.39.22", "lines": ["Thus, seeking bread, they wandered on their way,", "And roamed as thieves by night as well as day."]}, {"id": "D10.40.1", "lines": ["Thus sixty-three full years had passed away,", "And none was like Bahram within his day."]}, {"id": "D10.40.2", "lines": ["At New Year came his counselor of state,", "A Mobad, wise and learned and grave, and great."]}, {"id": "D10.40.3", "lines": ["He said, “Great king, your treasury is drained;", "Declare your will, and it shall be ordained."]}, {"id": "D10.40.4", "lines": ["The prudent look to us for revenue;", "They wait to learn what course we shall pursue.”"]}, {"id": "D10.40.5", "lines": ["The monarch answered, “Take no further pain;", "I am past all the world’s desire and gain."]}, {"id": "D10.40.6", "lines": ["Return the world to Him who made the skies,", "Who saw the circling heavens first arise."]}, {"id": "D10.40.7", "lines": ["The heavens turn, while God abides on high,", "And guides us both to good as years pass by.”"]}, {"id": "D10.40.8", "lines": ["That night he slept; at early morning’s hour,", "Great throngs of troops came toward the royal tower."]}, {"id": "D10.40.9", "lines": ["The chosen lords assembled at his call,", "And Yazdegard approached within the hall."]}, {"id": "D10.40.10", "lines": ["Before the lords, he gave his son the throne", "Of ivory, crown, torque, bracelets; all his own."]}, {"id": "D10.40.11", "lines": ["He cast aside the crown and all its show,", "And turned his soul to God, content to go."]}, {"id": "D10.40.12", "lines": ["He hastened to resign the world’s affairs,", "And went to sleep when night dismissed his cares."]}, {"id": "D10.40.13", "lines": ["When morning’s sun rose glorious overhead,", "The Mobad’s heart grew heavy with its dread."]}, {"id": "D10.40.14", "lines": ["“The Shah still sleeps,” he thought, oppressed by fear;", "“Perhaps he shuns the burdens waiting here.”"]}, {"id": "D10.40.15", "lines": ["Then Yazdegard came to his father’s side;", "The moisture in his mouth with terror dried."]}, {"id": "D10.40.16", "lines": ["Bahram, with faded cheeks, lay cold and dead,", "Upon the golden brocade richly spread."]}, {"id": "D10.40.17", "lines": ["The day of grief returns as days before;", "Do not consume your heart through greed for more."]}, {"id": "D10.40.18", "lines": ["At death, the heart of stone and iron fails;", "No worldly striving helps when Fate prevails."]}, {"id": "D10.40.19", "lines": ["Be harmless, kind, humane in every vein,", "If you would spare yourself the past’s sharp pain."]}, {"id": "D10.40.20", "lines": ["Gone was Bahram, his stature and his might;", "None in Iran could match his arm in fight."]}, {"id": "D10.40.21", "lines": ["No king like him has died; may God forgive", "His sins, and let his soul in radiance live."]}, {"id": "D10.40.22", "lines": ["Yet no delay could stay the appointed day,", "When Shah Bahram Goor’s term had passed away."]}, {"id": "D10.40.23", "lines": ["For forty days, the new Shah wept in woe;", "The troops wore black and blue their grief to show."]}, {"id": "D10.40.24", "lines": ["They laid the mighty monarch in his tomb;", "It seemed that wounded justice shared his doom."]}, {"id": "D10.40.25", "lines": ["I tell anew his bounty and his worth;", "Let none recall him ill upon this earth."]}, {"id": "D10.40.26", "lines": ["The sun and moon, bright Venus, Saturn’s light,", "Will see no equal of his crown and might."]}, {"id": "D10.40.27", "lines": ["Woe for that royal face, that height, that farr!", "Woe for that hand and gorz, that lofty star!"]}, {"id": "D10.40.28", "lines": ["He decked the crown and throne in bright array,", "And made great Rum and Chin their tribute pay."]}, {"id": "D10.40.29", "lines": ["Yet when he passed, he left as poor and bare", "As one whose bread and water were his care."]}, {"id": "D10.40.30", "lines": ["The king and pauper take the selfsame road,", "And scant provisions form their final load."]}, {"id": "D10.40.31", "lines": ["Why envy kings their sovereignty and might?", "No lengthy reign can keep its end from sight."]}, {"id": "D10.40.32", "lines": ["Blessed the pious mendicant and wise,", "Though harsh words from the world before him rise."]}, {"id": "D10.40.33", "lines": ["For when he dies, his honored name will last,", "And men recall his goodness from the past."]}, {"id": "D10.40.34", "lines": ["His portion lies in heaven’s blessed place,", "And honor waits for him before God’s face."]}, {"id": "D10.40.35", "lines": ["But I am left in misery and dread,", "My goods to Hell against my will have sped."]}, {"id": "D10.40.36", "lines": ["No hope in heaven shines upon my sight;", "My empty hands have lost both worlds outright."]}, {"id": "D10.40.37", "lines": ["If I can gather thought from grief and pain,", "My song shall now tell of Yazdegard’s reign."]}]}, {"id": "D11", "title": "Short Reigns and a Crisis with Khoshnavaz", "summary": "4 sections · 387 couplets", "path": "/poem/d11/", "couplets": [{"id": "D11.1.1", "lines": ["When Yazdegard became the world’s great king,", "He gathered scattered troops beneath his wing."]}, {"id": "D11.1.2", "lines": ["The wise and noble held a high conclave,", "With the princely Mobadan, grave and brave."]}, {"id": "D11.1.3", "lines": ["The young prince sat upon the throne of gold,", "And checked oppression, keeping wrong controlled."]}, {"id": "D11.1.4", "lines": ["He then began: “Whoever does no wrong", "Need fear no vengeful foe, however strong."]}, {"id": "D11.1.5", "lines": ["But when a heart grows dark with envy’s blight,", "A foul Div is the doctor for its plight."]}, {"id": "D11.1.6", "lines": ["For envy breeds both greed and burning want,", "A cruel master, vengeful in its haunt."]}, {"id": "D11.1.7", "lines": ["Let no one suffer what you would deplore;", "Bring no such anguish to another’s door."]}, {"id": "D11.1.8", "lines": ["Forbearance is akin to wisdom still;", "And wisdom crowns all knowledge with good will."]}, {"id": "D11.1.9", "lines": ["When you confer a benefit on one,", "Do not reproach him for the kindness done."]}, {"id": "D11.1.10", "lines": ["If you do good and patiently endure,", "The wise will hold your lasting worth secure."]}, {"id": "D11.1.11", "lines": ["If conquering Fortune favors my decree,", "And lets my purpose range from sea to sea,"]}, {"id": "D11.1.12", "lines": ["I will inscribe a roll of justice, free", "From fraud and falsehood, for the world to see.”"]}, {"id": "D11.1.13", "lines": ["He ruled the world with justice for a while;", "The age grew bright beneath his royal smile."]}, {"id": "D11.1.14", "lines": ["He sent out countless armies far and wide,", "And kept the world secure on every side."]}, {"id": "D11.1.15", "lines": ["When eighteen years of sovereignty had sped,", "His fortune dimmed, and grief within him spread."]}, {"id": "D11.1.16", "lines": ["He called the nobles and the sages near,", "And seated them around the throne to hear."]}, {"id": "D11.1.17", "lines": ["He said, “This harsh sky spares no child or nurse,", "And bends all royal crowns beneath its curse."]}, {"id": "D11.1.18", "lines": ["It heeds no potentate, no king’s decree,", "But hunts down every quarry that would flee."]}, {"id": "D11.1.19", "lines": ["My time draws near the end that Fate bestows;", "My strength is broken by the heavenly blows."]}, {"id": "D11.1.20", "lines": ["I give to Hormizd signet, crown, and reign,", "The army and Iran’s wealth and domain."]}, {"id": "D11.1.21", "lines": ["Now honor him and keep my final word,", "And let my will within your souls be heard."]}, {"id": "D11.1.22", "lines": ["Though Pirooz bears the farr and noble frame,", "And is some years the elder, all the same,"]}, {"id": "D11.1.23", "lines": ["In Hormizd I see wisdom, modest grace,", "And calm restraint befitting royal place.”"]}, {"id": "D11.1.24", "lines": ["He spoke and lived one week, then passed away;", "The throne itself wore mourning through the day."]}, {"id": "D11.1.25", "lines": ["Though life last five score years or twenty-five,", "None in this passing house can stay alive."]}, {"id": "D11.1.26", "lines": ["Whatever can be counted has its time;", "Do not suppose it lasts beyond its prime."]}, {"id": "D11.2.1", "lines": ["Hormizd succeeded to his father’s seat,", "And took the golden crown, his rule complete."]}, {"id": "D11.2.2", "lines": ["Pirooz beheld him and was filled with rage,", "As envy darkened kingship in that age."]}, {"id": "D11.2.3", "lines": ["He went at once with treasure, troops, and chiefs,", "To seek redress and remedy his griefs."]}, {"id": "D11.2.4", "lines": ["He came to Faghanish to seek his aid;", "Chaghan’s rich king had mighty troops arrayed."]}, {"id": "D11.2.5", "lines": ["Pirooz said, “Good friend, hear now my claim:", "Two sons were fit to bear the royal name."]}, {"id": "D11.2.6", "lines": ["Our father gave the younger son the crown,", "Unjustly made that gift, then laid life down."]}, {"id": "D11.2.7", "lines": ["If you will give me troops to win my right,", "I have wealth, weapons, majesty, and might.”"]}, {"id": "D11.2.8", "lines": ["The king of Chaghan answered, “This is true;", "Your claim is royal; help to you is due."]}, {"id": "D11.2.9", "lines": ["I will show how to gain what you deserve,", "And furnish troops, if you these terms observe:"]}, {"id": "D11.2.10", "lines": ["Let Tirmid and Visagard be my fee;", "Your father’s covenant made this decree.”"]}, {"id": "D11.2.11", "lines": ["Pirooz replied, “Yes, this is just and fair;", "Still greater realms should fall within your care.”"]}, {"id": "D11.2.12", "lines": ["The monarch gave him thirty thousand men,", "A chosen Heytalian army then."]}, {"id": "D11.2.13", "lines": ["With them Pirooz led forth a mighty power,", "Whose dust made moon and sky grow dark that hour."]}, {"id": "D11.2.14", "lines": ["He fought King Hormizd; long their warfare raged,", "As each against his brother battle waged."]}, {"id": "D11.2.15", "lines": ["At last King Hormizd lost the bitter fray;", "All crowns seemed worthless to him from that day."]}, {"id": "D11.2.16", "lines": ["When Pirooz saw his brother, pale and bound,", "His anger softened, and his love was found."]}, {"id": "D11.2.17", "lines": ["He hastened up and clasped his brother’s hand,", "Then bade him mount a horse at his command."]}, {"id": "D11.2.18", "lines": ["He read his covenant, its terms made plain,", "Then sent him to his palace with his train."]}, {"id": "D11.2.19", "lines": ["Then Hormizd said, “To God all praise is due;", "The wise man knows his God and holds Him true."]}, {"id": "D11.2.20", "lines": ["My brother took my throne and royal state;", "May Fortune grant Pirooz a victor’s fate.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.1", "lines": ["Pirooz, at ease about Hormizd and free", "From care, sat where the royal throne should be."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.2", "lines": ["As one who worshipped God with faith, he rose,", "And spoke to chiefs where royal counsel flows:"]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.3", "lines": ["“O worshipful and noble lords, I pray", "The Judge who needs no aid to guide my way."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.4", "lines": ["May He grant life and teach me due regard", "For every man, with justice as my guard."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.5", "lines": ["May He grant wisdom in abundant store,", "And happy days that open evermore."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.6", "lines": ["Forbearance crowns the mortal and exalts;", "The hasty man will stumble at his faults."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.7", "lines": ["The pillars wisdom raises never fall:", "Justice and mercy, greatest gifts of all."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.8", "lines": ["Bounty adorns it; eloquence shines bright;", "And courage gives its wings their strength in flight."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.9", "lines": ["How can high station keep its royal height,", "If wisdom’s lamp should fail to give it light?"]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.10", "lines": ["Even sages die; no mortal man can claim", "More farr than Jamshid, bright with royal fame."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.11", "lines": ["His crown once reached the moon; yet when he died,", "Another took the throne and ruled in pride."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.12", "lines": ["No one forever dwells upon the earth;", "Take refuge then in God, the source of worth.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.13", "lines": ["He ruled one year with justice, free from guile;", "The age grew fortunate beneath his smile."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.14", "lines": ["Next year the face of heaven turned to drought;", "And water, scarce as musk, was running out."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.15", "lines": ["The third and fourth years passed in this same way;", "Through drought, all men were miserable each day."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.16", "lines": ["The mouth of heaven dried; the streams ran low;", "Each drop was balm that none could now forgo."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.17", "lines": ["So many men and beasts lay dead around,", "There was no room to stand upon the ground."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.18", "lines": ["The king of kings beheld that dreadful sight,", "And lifted tax and toll by royal right."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.19", "lines": ["In every city where he kept his store,", "He gave it out to all, and kept no more."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.20", "lines": ["A proclamation rang from court that day:", "“You lords of wealth, attend to what I say."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.21", "lines": ["Bring forth your grain, and take dinars in trade;", "Let Pirooz’s coins enrich you, promptly paid."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.22", "lines": ["Whoever stores up grain, or owns a herd", "Of cattle or of sheep, shall heed this word:"]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.23", "lines": ["He may set any price on goods to sell;", "For lack of food, no living thing fares well.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.24", "lines": ["He sent another letter through the land,", "To every lord and officer in command:"]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.25", "lines": ["“Open your barns to all the folk who cry,", "And give them grain, lest they for hunger die."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.26", "lines": ["If one should die for lack of bread and grain,", "Man, woman, young or old, by hunger slain,"]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.27", "lines": ["The storekeeper shall bleed upon the plain;", "He scorned God’s work, and caused His creatures pain.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.28", "lines": ["He ordered all the folk to leave their homes,", "And lift their hands where open daylight roams."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.29", "lines": ["A cry of weeping, pain, and dark distress", "Rose up to heaven from their wilderness."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.30", "lines": ["On hill and slope, in desert and in cave,", "They called on God for mercy that could save."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.31", "lines": ["For seven years, the people all had seen", "No blade of grass, no freshness, and no green."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.32", "lines": ["In Farvardin, the eighth year’s clouds drew near;", "The long drought broke, and God’s relief was clear."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.33", "lines": ["Like pearls the rain fell on the thirsty ground;", "The scent of musk rose from the gardens round."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.34", "lines": ["Dew filled the flower’s cup like gleaming wine;", "The rainbow arched, a bright celestial sign."]}, {"id": "D11.3.1.35", "lines": ["The world escaped the grip of grief and pain;", "Bright bows were bent across the sky’s domain."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.1", "lines": ["When Pirooz passed those bitter years of dearth,", "He sat in peace, and joy returned to earth."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.2", "lines": ["He built a city at his own command,", "Called Pirooz-Ram, a blessing to the land."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.3", "lines": ["The city now called Rey, a royal nest", "Where kings of happy Fortune came to rest."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.4", "lines": ["He built Badan-Pirooz, renowned and fair,", "Where peace and pleasure filled the fragrant air."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.5", "lines": ["Now Ardabil, whose justice won acclaim,", "And drew great Caesar’s favor to its name."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.6", "lines": ["When Pirooz made those regions prosper well,", "He made the wise rejoice where they might dwell."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.7", "lines": ["He paid his troops in silver, set his course", "Against the Turks with all his gathered force."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.8", "lines": ["In that campaign, Hormizd led the array,", "With Iran’s newly mustered men that day."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.9", "lines": ["Behind Shah Pirooz, Qobad drove the train,", "Swift as a wind that sweeps across the plain."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.10", "lines": ["He was Pirooz’s son, both wise and bright,", "A fruitful bough that grew in royal light."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.11", "lines": ["Balawsh, the younger, farr upon his face,", "Sat on the throne and held his father’s place."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.12", "lines": ["A man from Pars, Sorkhab of high renown,", "Was set beside Balawsh to guard the crown."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.13", "lines": ["Pirooz said, “Serve Balawsh and guide him right,", "A faithful minister in peace and fight.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.14", "lines": ["With troops and treasure, warlike gear arrayed,", "He marched on Khoshnavaz with naked blade."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.15", "lines": ["Brave Bahram once had marked the border plain,", "And raised a column there within his reign."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.16", "lines": ["A royal covenant was carved and set,", "That Turk and Iranian must not forget:"]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.17", "lines": ["“Let neither people cross this boundary line,", "Nor claim beyond the stream, ‘That land is mine.’”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.18", "lines": ["When lion-quelling Pirooz reached the ground,", "He saw where Bahram’s farr and mark were found."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.19", "lines": ["He told his chiefs, “Toward Turkish lands ahead,", "I will set up a farther mark instead."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.20", "lines": ["With sword and treasure I will build it tall,", "So Heytalian threats may trouble none at all."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.21", "lines": ["And when the chiefs produce the treaty’s word,", "This is the answer they shall then have heard:"]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.22", "lines": ["‘Bahram himself once raised this marker here,", "Through wisdom, might, and farr that all revere.’"]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.23", "lines": ["Through Heytal and the Turks’ lands, hill and plain,", "No trace of Khoshnavaz shall there remain.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.24", "lines": ["The Khan’s son, Khoshnavaz, heard news of war:", "Pirooz had crossed the Jihun with his corps."]}, {"id": "D11.3.2.25", "lines": ["Bahram’s breached pact brought bloodshed, strife, and fear;", "A veteran scribe was summoned to appear."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.1", "lines": ["He wrote a letter to the king of earth,", "And asked that God should bless his royal worth."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.2", "lines": ["He said, “If you forsake the pact you swore,", "I cannot count you royal any more."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.3", "lines": ["Your ancestors had never acted so,", "Those sovereign Shahs whose justice used to glow."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.4", "lines": ["By breaking Iran’s compact with your hand,", "You cast down royal honor through the land."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.5", "lines": ["You force me now to break the treaty too,", "And draw the sword in self-defense from you.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.6", "lines": ["He wrote at length and sent abundant gifts,", "With one whose speech the heart to wisdom lifts."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.7", "lines": ["A noble horseman, eloquent and wise,", "Went with the letter under watchful skies."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.8", "lines": ["When Shah Pirooz had read the written word,", "He raged against that prince for what he heard."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.9", "lines": ["He told the envoy, “Rise and go from here;", "Return to that base man and make this clear:"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.10", "lines": ["‘Bahram agreed on Tarak as your bound;", "There peace had fixed the limits of your ground."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.11", "lines": ["But now as far as mighty Jihun’s strand,", "Hill, plain, and desert fall beneath your hand."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.12", "lines": ["Behold, I lead a vast and noble force,", "With warriors eager for the battle’s course."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.13", "lines": ["I shall not leave upon the earth below", "The shade of Khoshnavaz its length to throw.’”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.14", "lines": ["The envoy flew like dust before the gale,", "And set before Khoshnavaz the full tale."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.15", "lines": ["When Khoshnavaz had heard what had been said,", "And read the answer sent in anger’s stead,"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.16", "lines": ["He called his scattered followers to arms,", "And led the army forth to war’s alarms."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.17", "lines": ["He fixed upon a spear the written deed,", "That Bahram gave his forebear in his need."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.18", "lines": ["Its meaning was: “Jihun shall be our bound,”", "A frontier fixed where royal faith was found."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.19", "lines": ["He chose one marked among his fighting men,", "Shrewd-hearted, eloquent with tongue and pen."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.20", "lines": ["He said, “Approach Pirooz with courteous speech;", "Hear his reply and what he has to teach."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.21", "lines": ["Say this: ‘Your forebear’s treaty I shall raise", "Upon a spear before the armies’ gaze."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.22", "lines": ["That king of lofty fortune made this clear;", "His pact shall shine like sunlight on my spear."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.23", "lines": ["All those endowed with wisdom shall behold", "The words of that just king, proclaimed of old."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.24", "lines": ["I shall be praised, while you shall bear the blame,", "And men will brand your godlessness with shame."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.25", "lines": ["God, those who worship Him, and all your folk", "Will not approve injustice’s bitter yoke."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.26", "lines": ["No man should seek injustice or descend", "To break the treaties kingly rulers penned."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.27", "lines": ["No Shah like Bahram, resolute and just,", "Has worn the crown, or earned the people’s trust."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.28", "lines": ["God is my witness; yet what man am I", "To summon Him to witness from on high?"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.29", "lines": ["You march unjustly now to bring me low,", "And lead your mighty army as my foe."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.30", "lines": ["In this you will not gain victorious fame,", "Nor gather fruit from Fortune’s honored name."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.31", "lines": ["From this time on, I send no envoys more;", "God will suffice to aid me in this war.’”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.32", "lines": ["The envoy sped like dust with this reply,", "And spoke to Shah Pirooz beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.33", "lines": ["When that proud Shah had read the answer through,", "His anger rose; no gentler course he knew."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.34", "lines": ["He said, “A man who knew the world would shun", "Such reckless words as these his pen has spun."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.35", "lines": ["But if from Chakh one step toward the stream", "You take, my spearheads in your path shall gleam.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.36", "lines": ["The messenger to Khoshnavaz returned,", "And privately told all that he had learned."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.37", "lines": ["He said, “I see no reverence in his breast", "For God; no counselor checks his fierce unrest."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.38", "lines": ["He cares for nothing but revenge and strife,", "And does not walk by God’s command in life.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.39", "lines": ["When Khoshnavaz heard this, he turned in prayer,", "And sought from God His shelter and His care:"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.40", "lines": ["“O Judge whose judgments guard the cause of right,", "O Master of the dust and wind in flight,"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.41", "lines": ["You know Pirooz, unjust in word and aim,", "Has no more prowess than Bahram could claim."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.42", "lines": ["He speaks unjustly, eager to extend", "His realm by sword and make new kingdoms bend."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.43", "lines": ["Break from the earth the footing where he stands;", "Leave strength, wit, courage empty in his hands.”"]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.44", "lines": ["Around his troops he dug a trench and laid", "A covering across the breach he made."]}, {"id": "D11.3.3.45", "lines": ["More than a kamand’s length the trench ran deep;", "Full twenty arash spanned its sides so steep."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.1", "lines": ["This done, he called on God and marched his force", "From Samarkand along the battle’s course."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.2", "lines": ["Across the field, rash Shah Pirooz came fast,", "And drove his troops before him like a blast."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.3", "lines": ["On this side Khoshnavaz drew near the snare,", "His heart weighed down by fear and anxious care."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.4", "lines": ["Karnays and tabiras rang through both lines,", "And dust made black the sky with war’s designs."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.5", "lines": ["From both sides arrows fell in storming rain,", "Till blood ran down like water on the plain."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.6", "lines": ["Then Shah Pirooz spurred on his horse ahead,", "With gorz and Roman helmet as he led."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.7", "lines": ["When he drew near the Turkish chieftain’s line,", "Khoshnavaz wheeled in flight by his design."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.8", "lines": ["Pirooz pursued; his troops swept on in force,", "Fierce as the wind upon their headlong course."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.9", "lines": ["He plunged into the hidden fosse with all", "The chiefs and lions doomed that day to fall."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.10", "lines": ["There Narsi fell, his brother of renown,", "And glorious Qobad too was hurled down."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.11", "lines": ["Great men and princes of the royal race", "Plunged headlong in that dark and fatal place."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.12", "lines": ["Seven kings of name with golden helmets fell,", "And none could break that trench’s deadly spell."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.13", "lines": ["Then Khoshnavaz returned with heart elate,", "And stood beside the fosse to view their fate."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.14", "lines": ["He raised the living from that ruinous grave,", "While earth wept for the fortunes of the brave."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.15", "lines": ["Shah Pirooz, chief of chiefs, the royal-crowned,", "Lay with his head and back crushed on the ground."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.16", "lines": ["Of all those kings, Qobad lived on that day;", "The wind swept throne and army both away."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.17", "lines": ["Then Khoshnavaz advanced in proud content;", "His troops behind him followed where he went."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.18", "lines": ["He gave the foemen’s baggage up as spoil;", "The ranks dissolved in turmoil on the soil."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.19", "lines": ["Some men were seized as captives in the field;", "More lay upon the ground, their wounds congealed."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.20", "lines": ["It does not suit a monarch to seek more;", "The greedy heart finds ruin at its core."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.21", "lines": ["The restless sky ordains one common fate", "For subject, servant, king, and high estate."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.22", "lines": ["It crushes those whom it has nursed and fed,", "Though wisdom guard the path on which you tread."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.23", "lines": ["No man forever dwells upon this earth;", "Take righteousness as stores of lasting worth."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.24", "lines": ["When Khoshnavaz had crossed the trench, his force", "Seized all the baggage, every load and horse."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.25", "lines": ["They bound Qobad’s two feet in iron chains,", "And showed no care for royal blood or reigns."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.26", "lines": ["When news reached Iran of that fatal fight,", "And how Pirooz had fallen from his height,"]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.27", "lines": ["A cry of anguish rose through all the land,", "For princes fallen by the Turkish hand."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.28", "lines": ["When these dread tidings reached the court of state,", "Balawsh came down, and mourned his father’s fate."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.29", "lines": ["He tore his hair, and on the throne he spread", "The dust of grief in mourning for the dead."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.30", "lines": ["Throughout Iran, from troops and towns rose cries;", "Men, women, children mourned beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.31", "lines": ["With hair torn out and faces scratched in woe,", "They sought a king, and sought which way to go."]}, {"id": "D11.3.4.32", "lines": ["They asked how they might flee from Iran’s plain,", "Should horsemen come from where their kings lay slain."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.1", "lines": ["A month Balawsh sat grieving for the dead,", "His face all scratched, with dust upon his head."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.2", "lines": ["The troops and the Mobadan sought him out,", "With warriors and sages, grave, devout."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.3", "lines": ["They spoke at length in counsel wise and clear,", "With words of profit for his heart and ear."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.4", "lines": ["They set him on the throne with one acclaim,", "And showered gold and jewels in his name."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.5", "lines": ["When seated on the throne, he said, “O chiefs,", "Seek out the sages’ wisdom and beliefs."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.6", "lines": ["You shall receive due honor in my sight,", "When on my dark affairs you cast your light."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.7", "lines": ["Let all who strive for good throughout the land", "Be sure their deeds do not thwart my command."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.8", "lines": ["The wicked man who would his king defy,", "And lift himself to stand as great as I,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.9", "lines": ["First I shall offer counsel wise and sound;", "If spurned, then with his blood shall I be crowned."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.10", "lines": ["If any subject brings a grievance here", "Against these troops who hold religion dear,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.11", "lines": ["The unjust man shall answer for the grief;", "And I will tear his treason, root and leaf."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.12", "lines": ["Take no bold liberties with kings; keep checked", "Your tongue; to pious kings show more respect."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.13", "lines": ["The king is poison, then a healing brew;", "You seek in poison what can rescue you."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.14", "lines": ["In all things seek to give the Shah delight;", "Approach his court with joy, and not with fright."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.15", "lines": ["When anger grips the king, seek pardon still;", "Praise him for both his justice and his ill."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.16", "lines": ["When you declare, ‘I am both wise and strong,", "In every field of knowledge never wrong,’"]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.17", "lines": ["Know then that ignorance has made you blind;", "To your own self, do not become unkind."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.18", "lines": ["If you obey the counsel I declare,", "And keep these words with diligence and care,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.19", "lines": ["You shall receive the treasures of wise kings;", "No harm can rise from what true knowledge brings.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.20", "lines": ["The chieftains marveled at his wise command,", "And blessed him, all the leaders of the land."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.21", "lines": ["They left the palace, joyful and content,", "Entrusting him to God before they went."]}, {"id": "D11.4.1.22", "lines": ["Their hearts held love; their tongues spoke words of praise:", "“May such a king endure through endless days!”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.1", "lines": ["When Shah Pirooz was marching off to war,", "He sought a trusted Pahlevan of lore,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.2", "lines": ["A man of counsel, weight, and noble mind,", "To guard the crown and throne he left behind."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.3", "lines": ["He bade him stand as young Balawsh’s friend,", "A loyal heart on whom he could depend."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.4", "lines": ["Now Sofrye, exalted in the state,", "Was fit to bear this charge of royal weight."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.5", "lines": ["From Shiraz came this seasoned man of might,", "A lofty chief, a sepahbod born to fight."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.6", "lines": ["Exalted both in heart and rank and name,", "A marzban strong in dignity and fame."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.7", "lines": ["Zabulistan, Kabul, and Ghaznin’s land,", "With Bost were placed beneath his guiding hand."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.8", "lines": ["When tidings came of Shah Pirooz’s fall,", "Who spurned wise counsel and was lost to all,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.9", "lines": ["His lashes drenched his cheeks; in grief he tore", "The garments that the Pahlevans all wore."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.10", "lines": ["The warriors took their helmets off to show", "Their grief, and mourned a month in bitter woe."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.11", "lines": ["Then Sofrye asked, “Can young Balawsh repay", "The blood of Shah Pirooz in battle’s fray?"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.12", "lines": ["That effort cannot thrive; I see it plain:", "The royal crown is black with smoke and pain.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.13", "lines": ["He gathered scattered soldiers to his side,", "And sounded all the kousts with martial pride."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.14", "lines": ["Dust rose upon the plain; from every land", "A hundred thousand swordsmen joined his band."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.15", "lines": ["He paid his troops, relieved each soldier’s lack,", "And stirred the hearts that burned for the attack."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.16", "lines": ["He called a sweet-tongued envoy, shrewd and wise,", "Fit for the court, with keen and watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.17", "lines": ["Though seared with grief, wan-faced and wet with tears,", "He wrote wise counsel for Balawsh’s ears."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.18", "lines": ["He named Jamshid and Kay Khosrow to show,", "With Kay Qobad, the counsel kings should know."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.19", "lines": ["He sent Balawsh this counsel to allay", "His grief: “Let death not take your peace away."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.20", "lines": ["All men must taste of death; choose patience now,", "Choose lasting fame, and calm your royal brow."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.21", "lines": ["What comes upon the wind returns with breath;", "Some call it justice, others wrongful death."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.22", "lines": ["With your approval I shall arm for fight,", "And seek revenge beneath the heavens’ light."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.23", "lines": ["For sun and moon cry out from heaven’s height", "For Shah Pirooz’s blood and royal right.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.24", "lines": ["The envoy left, while Sofrye wept in pain;", "Like pheasant feathers, he arrayed his train."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.25", "lines": ["From Zabulistan he marched, Marv his aim,", "With vengeance in his heart, his blood aflame."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.26", "lines": ["He chose a wary messenger again,", "Whose words could soften proud and hostile men."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.27", "lines": ["He said to one who served the scribal art,", "“Rise now; your pen has work to stir the heart."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.28", "lines": ["Write Khoshnavaz: ‘You witless fox, whose will", "Is bent, like the Divs’, on devising ill!"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.29", "lines": ["Before God’s sight you stand in guilt and shame;", "Your very shirt shall weep to bear your name."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.30", "lines": ["False lord, for what you did to him, my blade", "Shall take revenge; your debt shall be repaid."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.31", "lines": ["You slew a guiltless man, the king of kings,", "And loosed a feud from which destruction springs."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.32", "lines": ["The grandson of great Bahram was your prey;", "You stirred a feud that will not pass away."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.33", "lines": ["Why, at the tabiras, did you not go", "And fawn before him like a dog bowed low?"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.34", "lines": ["Your forebear by this royal house was fed;", "Your father served great Bahram for his bread."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.35", "lines": ["At Marv I stand; I come to end your race,", "And leave of Heytalians neither sign nor trace."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.36", "lines": ["The captives and the wealth you took in fight,", "My sword of vengeance shall reclaim outright."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.37", "lines": ["To Marv I shall bring dust from Turan’s plain;", "No child or kin of yours shall here remain."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.38", "lines": ["By God’s command, I will strike off your head;", "A sea of blood across your realm shall spread."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.39", "lines": ["Beneath my army’s feet shall come your end;", "His soul to God a plea for right shall send.’”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.40", "lines": ["The envoy took the letter on his way,", "A lion fierce and eager for the fray."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.41", "lines": ["He came in anger, stood before the throne,", "And paid no homage; his contempt was shown."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.42", "lines": ["He gave the letter; then the chief withdrew.", "“Read this in private,” said the king, “all through.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.43", "lines": ["The scribe replied, “This letter is a hoard", "Of arrow, gorz, and scimitar and sword.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.44", "lines": ["Brave Khoshnavaz was deeply grieved that day", "By all that Sofrye had dared to say."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.45", "lines": ["He set himself at once to make reply", "To good and ill beneath the turning sky:"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.46", "lines": ["“We fear Yazdan and Fortune’s changing ways;", "God’s servants keep the pacts of former days."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.47", "lines": ["I sent Pirooz the pact the Shahs had made,", "And counseled him, but he would not be swayed."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.48", "lines": ["From Bahram Goor that ancient pact arose,", "But Pirooz spurned the peace its wisdom chose."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.49", "lines": ["He sought revenge, while I sought out a way", "To meet the danger as he pressed the fray."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.50", "lines": ["When line met line in battle on the plain,", "The stars raged over him with death and pain."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.51", "lines": ["Your Shah was slain, but not by will of ours;", "He broke his oath beneath the circling powers."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.52", "lines": ["Since he broke faith with kings who ruled upright,", "His youth knew not a single day’s delight."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.53", "lines": ["The Maker did not favor him that day;", "Earth seemed to seize his foot and bar his way."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.54", "lines": ["Who treads his forebears’ treaties in the dust,", "And casts aside the right, betrays the trust,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.55", "lines": ["Will be like Pirooz on the battlefield,", "Crushed in a dusty ditch and forced to yield."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.56", "lines": ["Come here: my ranks are mustered, fresh and whole;", "No man or coin is missing from the roll.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.57", "lines": ["The envoy bore the letter from that place,", "And reached Sofrye through a week’s hard pace."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.58", "lines": ["He read it, cursed aloud, and all around", "The karnays and brass cymbals shook with sound."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.59", "lines": ["To Kashmihan, Sofrye led his array,", "Whose dust hid sun and sky and light of day."]}, {"id": "D11.4.2.60", "lines": ["They journeyed onward as the days passed by,", "And made the road their home beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.1", "lines": ["When tidings came to Khoshnavaz, he went", "Toward the plain, on war and vengeance bent."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.2", "lines": ["He reached Baigand and chose a battlefield,", "Where heaven’s turning eye by troops was sealed."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.3", "lines": ["On his side, vengeful Sofrye came on,", "A storm-wind raging till the light was gone."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.4", "lines": ["When night had fallen, Sofrye barred the way", "With rested elephants in close array."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.5", "lines": ["The outposts walked their rounds on either side,", "And warrior-shouts rang through the darkness wide."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.6", "lines": ["The sentries’ challenges, the bells’ harsh cry,", "Rose from both armies to the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.7", "lines": ["The sun broke through the clouds and shed its light;", "The dales and deserts shone like crystal bright."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.8", "lines": ["Both armies then prepared themselves for war,", "And raised their mighty banners by the score."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.9", "lines": ["The warriors shouted till the dragon’s heart", "Seemed torn within its breast and split apart."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.10", "lines": ["The sky trapped vultures in the arrows’ flood;", "The earth became a pool of chieftains’ blood."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.11", "lines": ["Wherever one might look across the plain,", "Lay heaps of warriors, wounded or slain."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.12", "lines": ["Then Sofrye charged out from the army’s core,", "With all his troops amid the battle’s roar."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.13", "lines": ["Khoshnavaz rode from his vantage-ground,", "His sword of vengeance flashing all around."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.14", "lines": ["Then Sofrye struck his head; the club’s great might", "Seemed to dislodge the heavens from their height."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.15", "lines": ["Khoshnavaz escaped and spurred his steed", "Down from the heights in flight at headlong speed."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.16", "lines": ["But when he saw that Fortune proved unkind,", "He turned his rein and left the field behind."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.17", "lines": ["He showed his back; then Sofrye pursued,", "A desert storm in fierce and wrathful mood."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.18", "lines": ["His driving spear struck fleeing warriors dead,", "And left the Turkish ranks in ruin spread."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.19", "lines": ["He captured many nobles in the fray;", "More fell by sword and arrow on that day."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.20", "lines": ["He chased them to Kuhandizh’s fortress wall,", "While slain and wounded choked the road for all."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.21", "lines": ["From ramparts Khoshnavaz looked out and saw", "His troops dispersed by battle’s iron law."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.22", "lines": ["Across the desert’s hills and dales they fled,", "While all the road was strewn with armored dead."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.23", "lines": ["The road was heaped with precious arms and spoil,", "As though a jeweled garden decked the soil."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.24", "lines": ["The soldiers heaped the spoil beneath the sky,", "And brought Sofrye war’s harvest, piled up high."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.25", "lines": ["They brought the battle-gear, the girdles, steeds,", "And slaves, the gathered fruit of warlike deeds."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.26", "lines": ["They made a heap as high as Alborz’s height,", "A mountain of the spoil of that day’s fight."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.27", "lines": ["He paid no heed to all that Turkish gain,", "But gave it to his soldiers on the plain."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.28", "lines": ["Then Sofrye addressed his men and said,", "“Today our cause has prospered; foes have fled."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.29", "lines": ["Through Fortune’s favor we have gained our aim,", "Yet idleness would now dishonor fame."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.30", "lines": ["When morning’s sun lifts up its hand on high,", "We march like lions where those ramparts lie."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.31", "lines": ["We must attack that fortress, come what may,", "And avenge the king of kings without delay.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.32", "lines": ["His soldiers struck their chests and had their say;", "Each offered counsel in a different way."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.33", "lines": ["So passed the night until the heavenly dome", "Grew bright as morning called the sun from home."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.34", "lines": ["Then all the kousts resounded, sharp and clear,", "And Sofrye rode forth as dawn drew near."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.35", "lines": ["An envoy came from Khoshnavaz that day,", "And met the sepahbod upon his way."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.36", "lines": ["He said, “From battle’s bloodshed in the field,", "Come grief and death, the only fruits they yield."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.37", "lines": ["Shall we, two men deemed wise as well as brave,", "Send both our souls toward Hell and to the grave?"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.38", "lines": ["If you still seek the road that wisdom shows,", "Then know that God’s own will ordained our woes."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.39", "lines": ["Pirooz fell not by chance, but by fate’s plan:", "His months and years had run their measured span."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.40", "lines": ["He was to blame for breaking treaty’s trust,", "For casting honey down into the dust."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.41", "lines": ["He chose the bitter colocynth instead;", "What had to come descended on his head."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.42", "lines": ["Blessed is the man who keeps harsh deeds at bay,", "And will not choose to walk that bitter way."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.43", "lines": ["The captives and all spoil our armies won,", "The goods abandoned when the war was done,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.44", "lines": ["The gold, the silver, and the uncut gems,", "The steeds, the weapons, thrones, and diadems,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.45", "lines": ["Pirooz’s treasures and his troops’ wealth too,", "All shall be sent back, sepahbod, to you."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.46", "lines": ["Then, proud and satisfied, march home again,", "And lead in honor all your fighting men."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.47", "lines": ["I will not trespass on Iranian ground;", "Keep Bahram’s pact; do not transgress its bound."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.48", "lines": ["The king of kings apportioned earth of old:", "Turan and Chin are ours, Iran you hold.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.49", "lines": ["When Sofrye received the envoy’s word,", "He called the soldiers in, that all be heard."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.50", "lines": ["Before them all he bade the envoy stand:", "“Repeat the foeman’s words before this band.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.51", "lines": ["The envoy spoke and left no matter veiled;", "He told them all his master’s words entailed."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.52", "lines": ["Then Sofrye stood, his purpose to declare:", "“What course seems wisest? Speak with honest care."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.53", "lines": ["What should our judgment be upon this deed?”", "The troops replied, “Command us; we will heed."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.54", "lines": ["It is for you to frame and seal the peace;", "Your wisdom makes all doubt and discord cease."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.55", "lines": ["None knows Iran’s true interest more than you;", "You are our king, our lord, our leader true.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.56", "lines": ["Then Sofrye addressed his noble chiefs:", "“Our course today must turn from further griefs."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.57", "lines": ["The only policy that fits the hour", "Is not to waste our strength against that tower."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.58", "lines": ["I will lead back the army toward our land,", "With speed and prudence under my command."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.59", "lines": ["Qobad, the son of King Pirooz, is held", "Within their hands, by iron bonds compelled."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.60", "lines": ["With him the high Mobad, Ardeshir, remains,", "And all the army’s leaders, held in chains."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.61", "lines": ["If we fight Khoshnavaz, the war runs long;", "Its little gain will breed a greater wrong."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.62", "lines": ["They then may slaughter all the men of name,", "Qobad and Ardeshir, to seal our shame."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.63", "lines": ["Were Qobad not exposed to this dark fate,", "The Mobad’s peril would hold lesser weight."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.64", "lines": ["Yet if the Turks should harm the captive’s life,", "Iran will echo long with grief and strife."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.65", "lines": ["Till Resurrection, this disgrace will stay,", "And strife among our chiefs will not decay."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.66", "lines": ["We therefore give a courteous answer now,", "And seek wise counsel under peace’s vow."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.67", "lines": ["Perhaps we yet shall see Qobad restored;", "May kingship never lack him as its lord."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.68", "lines": ["May God preserve him, Iran’s crown and pride,", "With Ardeshir and all men at his side.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.69", "lines": ["The soldiers blessed him, saying, “This is right;", "This treaty is our precedent and light."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.70", "lines": ["This is our faith, our settled law and way.”", "Then Sofrye called back the envoy that day."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.71", "lines": ["He spoke to him with gentle, measured pace:", "“Enough; the act of God has shaped this case."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.72", "lines": ["The world conceals the evil it would do,", "And tells no soul the harm it has in view."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.73", "lines": ["The foremost men of Iran held in chain", "Are Prince Qobad and Ardeshir in pain."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.74", "lines": ["The high Mobad, with all the captive rest", "Whose feet in fetters suffer at your behest,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.75", "lines": ["Send them with honor fitting their degree,", "And let them come to us, each captive free."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.76", "lines": ["Moreover, all the booty in your hand,", "Dinars and crowns and wealth from every land,"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.77", "lines": ["Send every item here, before this band,", "To me and all the chiefs who round me stand."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.78", "lines": ["We will not stretch our hands to spoil or slay;", "We worship God and need no blood today."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.79", "lines": ["On day ten we shall cross Jihun, and then", "Our feet shall never tread your soil again."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.80", "lines": ["Give ear to everything that I have said,", "And bear it back to him by whom you are led.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.81", "lines": ["The envoy spurred to Khoshnavaz’s court,", "And gave the message whole in his report."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.82", "lines": ["Then Khoshnavaz rejoiced at what he heard,", "And acted swiftly on the envoy’s word."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.83", "lines": ["He freed Qobad from bonds without delay,", "And stripped the iron fetters all away."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.84", "lines": ["The Mobad Ardeshir he freed from thrall,", "With other captives pent behind the wall."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.85", "lines": ["He gathered all the plunder from the ground,", "The scattered wealth that on the field was found."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.86", "lines": ["He sent Shah Pirooz’s throne and royal crown,", "With all the spoils seized when his troops went down."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.87", "lines": ["A trusted Pahlevan conveyed the load", "To Sofrye with the honor he was owed."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.88", "lines": ["When soldiers gazed on Qobad, freed and hale,", "Their hearts, so long in grief, no more were pale."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.89", "lines": ["They hailed Qobad and Ardeshir restored,", "With captives freed before their rightful lord."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.90", "lines": ["The mighty men rushed from their tents to raise", "Their hands to heaven in their joy and praise."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.91", "lines": ["They thanked Yazdan whose mercy let them see", "The king of kings’ own son from fetters free."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.92", "lines": ["Whole in his limbs he stood, with all the rest", "Whose loss had left Iran so sore distressed."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.93", "lines": ["Forthwith the chief broke camp and took the road,", "Glad and triumphant, lightened of grief’s load."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.94", "lines": ["He crossed Jihun in triumph, homeward bound,", "With Ardeshir and Qobad, safe and sound."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.95", "lines": ["When tidings reached Iran, the people knew", "What mighty deeds their Sofrye could do."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.96", "lines": ["They heard how war with Khoshnavaz was done,", "And how his policy this peace had won."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.97", "lines": ["They heard, “He has returned from war with fame;", "Qobad is freed from fetters and from shame."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.98", "lines": ["And Sofrye brings Ardeshir home in peace,", "With every captive granted glad release."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.99", "lines": ["He crossed Jihun and reached Iran’s domain;", "His army fills the mountain and the plain.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.100", "lines": ["Such shouts arose that one would almost say", "They deafened all who heard them on that day."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.101", "lines": ["The prudent nobles rose in haste to meet", "The victors, and their homage was complete."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.102", "lines": ["Balawsh then had a golden throne prepared", "Where Qobad and the Pahlevan were paired."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.103", "lines": ["When Sofrye journeyed home to great renown,", "The nobles gathered, circling round the crown."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.104", "lines": ["Balawsh rode forth with all his troops that day,", "To greet Sofrye and young Qobad on their way."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.105", "lines": ["When he beheld Qobad released from chains,", "He clasped him close, rejoicing in his gains."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.106", "lines": ["For Heytal’s deeds and Chin’s he clasped his head;", "Then all into the royal hall were led."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.107", "lines": ["Their hearts were sore, on retribution bent;", "The sting of old defeat was not yet spent."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.108", "lines": ["At his command they spread the festive board;", "Wine, harp, and song were brought before their lord."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.109", "lines": ["Yet grief for generous Pirooz held them fast,", "And little joy could banish what had passed."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.110", "lines": ["The singers praised Sofrye’s high renown,", "And harped Turan’s defeat before the crown."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.111", "lines": ["Each chieftain fixed his hopeful eyes on him;", "Their former dread before his fame grew dim."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.112", "lines": ["All those who sought revenge throughout the land", "On Khoshnavaz backed Sofrye’s command."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.113", "lines": ["They found their joy in him and eased their care;", "Their minds were freed from fears they used to bear."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.114", "lines": ["Four years went by; no equal could be found,", "And his commands prevailed the kingdom round."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.115", "lines": ["Nothing occurred except as he decreed;", "Whatever he desired became the deed."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.116", "lines": ["When all the realm submitted to his will,", "He moved Balawsh from the throne, gently still."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.117", "lines": ["He said, “You cannot rule the realm with skill,", "Nor tell the good from those whose deeds are ill."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.118", "lines": ["Your crooked pride has led your rule astray;", "You make of kingship nothing more than play."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.119", "lines": ["Qobad is wiser in affairs of state,", "More fit than you to bear the kingdom’s weight.”"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.120", "lines": ["Balawsh withdrew in silence to his hall;", "He dared not answer or resist at all."]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.121", "lines": ["He could not tell Sofrye, “Go your way,”", "But sought to ease his loss with words that day:"]}, {"id": "D11.4.3.122", "lines": ["“This modest seat will never burden me;", "From toil and pain and curses it is free.”"]}]}, {"id": "D12", "title": "Qobad and the Mazdakite Revolution", "summary": "8 sections · 399 couplets", "path": "/poem/d12/", "couplets": [{"id": "D12.1.1", "lines": ["When glorious Qobad rose to take the throne,", "He wore the crown that made his kingship known."]}, {"id": "D12.1.2", "lines": ["From Istakhr’s glory then he made his way,", "To Tisfoon in bright and royal array."]}, {"id": "D12.1.3", "lines": ["When he had taken Pirooz’s royal seat,", "He spoke these words, both measured and complete:"]}, {"id": "D12.1.4", "lines": ["“Conceal from me no matter, dark or bright;", "My door is open, whether day or night."]}, {"id": "D12.1.5", "lines": ["The man is great who orders well his tongue,", "And seeks no crooked speech from old or young."]}, {"id": "D12.1.6", "lines": ["When he shows mercy, setting wrath aside,", "The chief of upright men calls him a guide."]}, {"id": "D12.1.7", "lines": ["He sets contentment’s throne upon the earth;", "Through justice, nobles recognize his worth."]}, {"id": "D12.1.8", "lines": ["If you keep vengeance far from your own heart,", "All men alike will praise your royal part."]}, {"id": "D12.1.9", "lines": ["But when a king forsakes the words of right,", "His crooked speech soon makes him seek a fight."]}, {"id": "D12.1.10", "lines": ["First hear a matter fully to the end;", "Then let a rightful answer be your friend."]}, {"id": "D12.1.11", "lines": ["When any sage is covetous for gain,", "His knowledge bears no fruit in sun or rain."]}, {"id": "D12.1.12", "lines": ["When he is hasty, all his learning’s store", "Is poured on barren ground and yields no more."]}, {"id": "D12.1.13", "lines": ["The prudent king will win the soldier’s mind,", "And bear reproach with patience, calm and kind."]}, {"id": "D12.1.14", "lines": ["The rich man who clings fast to his estate", "Ranks lower than the beggar at the gate."]}, {"id": "D12.1.15", "lines": ["But with a foolish mendicant’s ascension,", "His folly fills the realm with dire dissension."]}, {"id": "D12.1.16", "lines": ["The man who knows defects within his breast", "Will not make others’ faults his public quest."]}, {"id": "D12.1.17", "lines": ["Patience is wisdom’s pillar, firm and wise;", "But anger makes men base in others’ eyes."]}, {"id": "D12.1.18", "lines": ["Content with what God grants, you come to find", "A wealth of heart, a pure and single mind."]}, {"id": "D12.1.19", "lines": ["Keep free from toil; no treasure can exceed", "The worth of one whose life is free from greed."]}, {"id": "D12.1.20", "lines": ["The man whose giving is his lasting store", "May die; his name will live for evermore."]}, {"id": "D12.1.21", "lines": ["So put your hands to good, and good alone;", "Do not let evil claim the world as its own.”"]}, {"id": "D12.1.22", "lines": ["The nobles called down blessings on his crown,", "And emeralds in showers came glittering down."]}, {"id": "D12.1.23", "lines": ["His years were sixteen; young, he held the seat", "Of kings, but found his power far from complete."]}, {"id": "D12.1.24", "lines": ["For Sofrye ruled the world by his command;", "Qobad was not the master of the land."]}, {"id": "D12.1.25", "lines": ["The Pahlevan made all affairs his own,", "And let none sit before the royal throne."]}, {"id": "D12.1.26", "lines": ["No Mobad, no command was his to claim;", "No counsel; Sofrye ruled in all but name."]}, {"id": "D12.2.1", "lines": ["Thus tulip-bright the wine shone in the bowl,", "Till manhood’s strength had ripened Qobad’s soul."]}, {"id": "D12.2.2", "lines": ["When he had reached his twenty-first full year,", "Then Sofrye before the king drew near."]}, {"id": "D12.2.3", "lines": ["He begged the king for leave to homeward ride,", "With all his troops to travel at his side."]}, {"id": "D12.2.4", "lines": ["He made his retinue and baggage ready,", "His heart at ease, his purpose firm and steady."]}, {"id": "D12.2.5", "lines": ["The tabiras were struck; he took his way,", "To Shiraz, glory brightening his array."]}, {"id": "D12.2.6", "lines": ["He went as one who had attained desire,", "With fortune such as kings themselves admire."]}, {"id": "D12.2.7", "lines": ["All Pars submitted wholly to his will;", "He had no crown, but ruled the kingdom still."]}, {"id": "D12.2.8", "lines": ["He thought, “I set the Shah upon his seat,", "And gave him homage, loyal and complete."]}, {"id": "D12.2.9", "lines": ["If any man should slander me today,", "The Shah will cast that man in shame away.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.10", "lines": ["He levied tribute throughout every place,", "From famous chiefs and men of noble race."]}, {"id": "D12.2.11", "lines": ["When all his doings reached the royal ear,", "Both just and unjust acts alike made clear,"]}, {"id": "D12.2.12", "lines": ["The people said, “The Shah has but the crown,", "While Sofrye holds the wealth, the troops, the town."]}, {"id": "D12.2.13", "lines": ["The king commands no deed, decides no plan;", "The world serves Sofrye, every lord and man.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.14", "lines": ["The king’s close confidants received each claim,", "And poured these whispered charges on his name."]}, {"id": "D12.2.15", "lines": ["They added, “Why, exalted king, remain", "Content to rule in name, without domain?"]}, {"id": "D12.2.16", "lines": ["His treasury is better filled than yours;", "Free all the realm from what his pride secures."]}, {"id": "D12.2.17", "lines": ["All Pars has grown a slave beneath his hand;", "The great men bow to him throughout the land.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.18", "lines": ["These words corrupted Qobad’s royal heart,", "And made past services from thought depart."]}, {"id": "D12.2.19", "lines": ["He said, “If I send troops to curb his reign,", "He may revolt, and all my cost is vain."]}, {"id": "D12.2.20", "lines": ["I would but spend my wealth to make a foe,", "While he would cause much trouble, toil, and woe."]}, {"id": "D12.2.21", "lines": ["The people all are speaking of his deeds,", "Yet none can know what secret purpose breeds."]}, {"id": "D12.2.22", "lines": ["I know no warrior in the realm today", "Who dares to lead an army to the fray.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.23", "lines": ["A wise man answered, “Do not think his might", "Can ever seize the royal crown by right."]}, {"id": "D12.2.24", "lines": ["You still have chiefs and captains, brave and strong,", "Whose hands can shake the heavens all day long."]}, {"id": "D12.2.25", "lines": ["When Shapur rides from Rey to take the field,", "The wicked Sofrye’s fate is thereby sealed.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.26", "lines": ["The Shah took courage; doubt no longer stirred,", "And Sofrye’s long service lay interred."]}, {"id": "D12.2.27", "lines": ["He bade a veteran mount and swiftly find", "Shapur, with secret royal charge in mind."]}, {"id": "D12.2.28", "lines": ["He feigned a journey with his hawk and hound,", "While secret purpose urged him over ground."]}, {"id": "D12.2.29", "lines": ["His road led straight to Shapur, lord of Rey,", "To summon him to court without delay."]}, {"id": "D12.2.30", "lines": ["The messenger took one spare horse along,", "And rode, an autumn blast both swift and strong."]}, {"id": "D12.2.31", "lines": ["He reached Rey swiftly, as the king had said;", "The chamberlain then questioned where he sped."]}, {"id": "D12.2.32", "lines": ["He took the royal letter in his hand,", "And went before Shapur at the command."]}, {"id": "D12.2.33", "lines": ["He gave the letter to the lord of Rey,", "And brought the messenger without delay."]}, {"id": "D12.2.34", "lines": ["Shapur, who traced to Mehrak his descent,", "Smiled as he read the words that Qobad sent."]}, {"id": "D12.2.35", "lines": ["For Sofrye had no more bitter foe,", "In public court or private, high or low."]}, {"id": "D12.2.36", "lines": ["Thus summoned, Shapur gathered all his men,", "And led his army toward the Shah again."]}, {"id": "D12.2.37", "lines": ["He marched in haste until he came to court;", "They cleared the road before his armed escort."]}, {"id": "D12.2.38", "lines": ["The Shah received him well, with honors due,", "And gave him rank and place among the few."]}, {"id": "D12.2.39", "lines": ["He placed him on the turquoise seat of pride,", "And spoke the grief he could no longer hide:"]}, {"id": "D12.2.40", "lines": ["“I have no portion in the crown I bear;", "Men call me Shah, but I possess no share."]}, {"id": "D12.2.41", "lines": ["The realm’s whole power Sofrye holds in fee;", "An empty kingship only rests with me."]}, {"id": "D12.2.42", "lines": ["For all the right and wrong I bear the blame;", "One day my flesh must suffer for the same."]}, {"id": "D12.2.43", "lines": ["Were even my own brother lord and king,", "It would be better than this shameful thing.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.44", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “O king, be not aggrieved;", "This wound can still be healed, your pain relieved."]}, {"id": "D12.2.45", "lines": ["Write him a letter, stern in its command;", "You bear the farr of kings throughout the land."]}, {"id": "D12.2.46", "lines": ["Say this: ‘Of kingship, all I hold is care;", "My treasury stands empty, stripped and bare."]}, {"id": "D12.2.47", "lines": ["You take the tribute, while I bear the blame;", "I will not have you call me Shah in name."]}, {"id": "D12.2.48", "lines": ["I send this Pahlevan to you today,", "Because your conduct drives my heart astray.’"]}, {"id": "D12.2.49", "lines": ["When he receives the letter we design,", "And sees my troops in ordered battle-line,"]}, {"id": "D12.2.50", "lines": ["I will not let him blink; my words shall fall", "In anger, with no gentleness at all.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.51", "lines": ["They called a scribe and seated him nearby;", "Shapur dictated Qobad’s stern reply."]}, {"id": "D12.2.52", "lines": ["The writer set the secret words in place,", "His twisting pen kept up the wind’s swift pace."]}, {"id": "D12.2.53", "lines": ["When Qobad sealed the letter with his ring,", "Shapur led forth the army of the king."]}, {"id": "D12.2.54", "lines": ["He added famous chiefs to his array,", "Once scattered from the Shah’s ranks far away."]}, {"id": "D12.2.55", "lines": ["With nobles eager for the road ahead,", "Toward distant Shiraz all his banners spread."]}, {"id": "D12.2.56", "lines": ["The tidings reached Sofrye; he amassed", "His strength from all of Pars, a muster vast."]}, {"id": "D12.2.57", "lines": ["With mailed horsemen and a mighty force,", "He went to meet Shapur upon his course."]}, {"id": "D12.2.58", "lines": ["They met, and both those haughty chiefs stepped down,", "Dismounting from their steeds before the town."]}, {"id": "D12.2.59", "lines": ["When Shapur sat with Sofrye, they weighed", "Both good and ill in all the plans they made."]}, {"id": "D12.2.60", "lines": ["Then Shapur laid the royal letter bare;", "Affairs had reached a pass of dark despair."]}, {"id": "D12.2.61", "lines": ["The Pahlevan read through the royal word,", "Grew stunned and dark of soul at what he heard."]}, {"id": "D12.2.62", "lines": ["When he had read, Shapur spoke without pause:", "“The Shah commands your seizure for this cause."]}, {"id": "D12.2.63", "lines": ["He complains much of you before the great;", "You know the Shah, who will brook no debate.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.64", "lines": ["The Pahlevan replied, “The Shah knows well", "What toil I bore, what hardships on me fell."]}, {"id": "D12.2.65", "lines": ["From Zabulistan I advanced with might,", "And freed him from his bondage in the fight."]}, {"id": "D12.2.66", "lines": ["No calamity came upon his head;", "I shielded him when hope itself had fled."]}, {"id": "D12.2.67", "lines": ["My deeds were told before the royal throne,", "And to Iran’s great chieftains they were known."]}, {"id": "D12.2.68", "lines": ["But since my recompense is bond and chain,", "And my resistance would bring toil and pain,"]}, {"id": "D12.2.69", "lines": ["I ask no respite now. Bind both my feet;", "Qobad’s own fetters will be honor sweet."]}, {"id": "D12.2.70", "lines": ["Before God and the troops, does he feel shame?", "How much warm blood I shed to serve his name!"]}, {"id": "D12.2.71", "lines": ["When that young Shah lay captive and forlorn,", "To God my solemn oath that day was sworn:"]}, {"id": "D12.2.72", "lines": ["‘My hand shall clasp the sword alone in fight;", "My battle-clouds shall veil the sun’s clear light."]}, {"id": "D12.2.73", "lines": ["My head I give, or cast his to the ground,", "From that high throne where Khoshnavaz sits crowned.’"]}, {"id": "D12.2.74", "lines": ["And now he binds me. Is this justice done?", "Are chains and insults all my service won?"]}, {"id": "D12.2.75", "lines": ["Yet do not turn aside from his command;", "Bonds are ornaments on a hero’s hand.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.76", "lines": ["When Shapur heard him, he made fast the chains,", "Then bade the karnay sound across the plains."]}, {"id": "D12.2.77", "lines": ["From Pars he brought him bound upon the way,", "And carried him before Qobad that day."]}, {"id": "D12.2.78", "lines": ["Qobad recalled no service of the past,", "And had the captive into prison cast."]}, {"id": "D12.2.79", "lines": ["He ordered all his wealth and goods conveyed", "From Shiraz, as the royal order bade."]}, {"id": "D12.2.80", "lines": ["His household, treasure, harvest, field, and gold", "Were seized for Qobad’s treasury to hold."]}, {"id": "D12.2.81", "lines": ["When one week passed, Qobad sought counsel then", "From sage Mobadan and from learned men."]}, {"id": "D12.2.82", "lines": ["They said, “All Tisfoon is on his side;", "If he remains alive, your power has died."]}, {"id": "D12.2.83", "lines": ["Your troops and subjects stand beside him still;", "Your landed men and courtiers share that will."]}, {"id": "D12.2.84", "lines": ["A royal foe is safest left to lie", "Bereft of life; command that Sofrye die.”"]}, {"id": "D12.2.85", "lines": ["The Shah heard out the Mobad; then he turned", "To new men, while his former friend he spurned."]}, {"id": "D12.2.86", "lines": ["He gave the order: Sofrye must be slain,", "And hearts and eyes be wrung for him in pain."]}, {"id": "D12.3.1", "lines": ["When word of elephantine Sofrye’s death", "Reached Iran, grief near stopped the people’s breath."]}, {"id": "D12.3.2", "lines": ["A cry of anguish rose from every side;", "Men, women, children mourned the man who died."]}, {"id": "D12.3.3", "lines": ["All tongues poured curses; secrets once concealed", "Were spoken openly, their truth revealed."]}, {"id": "D12.3.4", "lines": ["Iran convulsed; dust darkened all the light,", "And all the folk took arms to claim their right."]}, {"id": "D12.3.5", "lines": ["They said, “Since Sofrye is lost and dead,", "We tear the crown from cruel Qobad’s head.”"]}, {"id": "D12.3.6", "lines": ["The troops and townsmen joined in one accord;", "No longer would they own Qobad as lord."]}, {"id": "D12.3.7", "lines": ["They stormed the Shah’s own palace in their rage,", "And cursed the evil counsel of the age."]}, {"id": "D12.3.8", "lines": ["They killed the men whose plots had caused the fall,", "And dragged their bodies from the royal hall."]}, {"id": "D12.3.9", "lines": ["They sought Jamasp, the younger of the two,", "And asked for news from anyone who knew."]}, {"id": "D12.3.10", "lines": ["He was a noble youth of royal birth,", "Whom Qobad cherished tenderly on earth."]}, {"id": "D12.3.11", "lines": ["They set him on the throne of kings to reign,", "And hailed him Shah of all Iran’s domain."]}, {"id": "D12.3.12", "lines": ["They bound Qobad’s feet; neither farr nor race", "Could win him honor in that hostile place."]}, {"id": "D12.3.13", "lines": ["Now Sofrye had a single cherished son,", "A youth of wisdom, holy, harming none."]}, {"id": "D12.3.14", "lines": ["Rizmehr, whose love had made his father glad,", "A gentle son, the joy that Sofrye had."]}, {"id": "D12.3.15", "lines": ["To him they gave Qobad, the captive king,", "And waited for the vengeance grief would bring."]}, {"id": "D12.3.16", "lines": ["They thought, “In grief, the loving son will take", "Revenge for Sofrye, for anguish’s sake.”"]}, {"id": "D12.3.17", "lines": ["Good Rizmehr, faithful to Yazdan above,", "Spared King Qobad and answered hate with love."]}, {"id": "D12.3.18", "lines": ["He bowed before Qobad with reverent face,", "And spoke no word of vengeance or disgrace."]}, {"id": "D12.3.19", "lines": ["Qobad was moved and marveled at the deed,", "And learned the kindness men in sorrow need."]}, {"id": "D12.3.20", "lines": ["“Forgive me! Those who hate me now have cast", "A cloud across my star, and hold me fast."]}, {"id": "D12.3.21", "lines": ["But if I find release from bond and chain,", "I will reward you for your grief and pain."]}, {"id": "D12.3.22", "lines": ["I shall relieve your sorrow and distress,", "And make our meeting shine with happiness.”"]}, {"id": "D12.3.23", "lines": ["Rizmehr replied, “O king, let those words rest;", "To speak no more of this would serve you best."]}, {"id": "D12.3.24", "lines": ["If he fell short in deeds he should have done,", "His death has brought this sorrow to his son."]}, {"id": "D12.3.25", "lines": ["As for myself, I am your slave and thrall;", "I stand before you, ready at your call."]}, {"id": "D12.3.26", "lines": ["If you desire it, I will swear today", "I shall not from my pledged allegiance stray.”"]}, {"id": "D12.3.27", "lines": ["So spoke Rizmehr; when Qobad heard the word,", "His heart with joy and sudden comfort stirred."]}, {"id": "D12.3.28", "lines": ["He made Rizmehr his confidant that day,", "And said, “No thought of mine shall hide away."]}, {"id": "D12.3.29", "lines": ["Five men alone have shared my secret plan;", "No others know it; not one other man."]}, {"id": "D12.3.30", "lines": ["We shall now summon them and tell them all,", "And see if one of them will heed the call."]}, {"id": "D12.3.31", "lines": ["If you release my feet from bond and chain,", "My counsel shall reward you for your pain.”"]}, {"id": "D12.4.1", "lines": ["Good Rizmehr heard his words and straightaway", "Released his feet from fetters that same day."]}, {"id": "D12.4.2", "lines": ["By night they left the city, all unseen,", "And crossed the open plain behind night’s screen."]}, {"id": "D12.4.3", "lines": ["Toward the Heytalians their course they bent;", "In haste and fear, without a halt, they went."]}, {"id": "D12.4.4", "lines": ["Thus sped the seven like windblown dust in flight,", "Until Ahvaz appeared before their sight."]}, {"id": "D12.4.5", "lines": ["They reached a thriving village; there they found", "A famed dehqan, farsangs around renowned."]}, {"id": "D12.4.6", "lines": ["They all dismounted at his dwelling-place,", "And rested there a week from fear and chase."]}, {"id": "D12.4.7", "lines": ["He had a daughter, moonlike, crowned with musk,", "Whose beauty brightened dawn and evening dusk."]}, {"id": "D12.4.8", "lines": ["When young Qobad beheld her moon-bright face,", "All wisdom fled his heart and left no trace."]}, {"id": "D12.4.9", "lines": ["He went at once to Rizmehr and confessed,", "“I have a secret hidden in my breast."]}, {"id": "D12.4.10", "lines": ["Go quickly to the noble; speak my plea:", "Could that fair moon-faced maiden marry me?”"]}, {"id": "D12.4.11", "lines": ["Rizmehr went swiftly, told the noble lord,", "And shaped his words with counsel in accord."]}, {"id": "D12.4.12", "lines": ["“If your fair daughter has not yet been wed,", "A worthy suitor seeks her marriage-bed."]}, {"id": "D12.4.13", "lines": ["You shall be lord of all Ahvaz, and raise", "Your rank and power to heights deserving praise.”"]}, {"id": "D12.4.14", "lines": ["The noble answered Rizmehr with delight,", "“My daughter is a maiden still, and bright."]}, {"id": "D12.4.15", "lines": ["If she should suit him, yours is the command;", "Give him my daughter as the match you planned.”"]}, {"id": "D12.4.16", "lines": ["Wise Rizmehr came to young Qobad and said,", "“May Fortune bless the Moon you mean to wed."]}, {"id": "D12.4.17", "lines": ["You saw and chose her when she met your view;", "From head to foot, her beauty captured you.”"]}, {"id": "D12.4.18", "lines": ["Qobad then called that fairy-faced one near,", "And set her on his knee with royal cheer."]}, {"id": "D12.4.19", "lines": ["He had with him one ring, and only one,", "A signet whose true worth was known to none."]}, {"id": "D12.4.20", "lines": ["He gave it, saying, “Keep this seal of mine;", "I may return and seek it as a sign.”"]}, {"id": "D12.4.21", "lines": ["For seven days he stayed with that fair Moon,", "Then on the eighth departed all too soon."]}, {"id": "D12.4.22", "lines": ["He rode away at dawn with urgent speed,", "And sought the Heytalian king in need."]}, {"id": "D12.4.23", "lines": ["He told what had befallen in his land,", "How foes had risen round him, hand in hand."]}, {"id": "D12.4.24", "lines": ["The king replied, “Your need has come, I fear,", "From wrong to Khoshnavaz that brought you here."]}, {"id": "D12.4.25", "lines": ["On these conditions I will grant you men,", "Crown-wearing warriors fit for war again:"]}, {"id": "D12.4.26", "lines": ["If throne and treasure once again are won,", "Chaghaniyan is mine when all is done."]}, {"id": "D12.4.27", "lines": ["That land is mine; Iran is yours to keep,", "And from this pact no sorrow shall you reap.”"]}, {"id": "D12.4.28", "lines": ["Qobad then smiled and answered to his claim:", "“To me Chaghaniyan is but a name."]}, {"id": "D12.4.29", "lines": ["I shall send warriors, more than you can count;", "Whenever you desire them, they shall mount.”"]}, {"id": "D12.4.30", "lines": ["The king supplied him horses for his men,", "And armed his troops to take the field again."]}, {"id": "D12.4.31", "lines": ["He took full forty thousand men of might,", "All famous horsemen, proven in the fight."]}, {"id": "D12.4.32", "lines": ["To Ahvaz with that force Qobad returned;", "His name through all the world like beacons burned."]}, {"id": "D12.5.1", "lines": ["Qobad approached the noble’s house and saw", "Crowds thronging every street in joy and awe."]}, {"id": "D12.5.2", "lines": ["They brought him news: “Your bride has borne this night", "A son whose face is like the moon in light."]}, {"id": "D12.5.3", "lines": ["May this young son bring blessings to your days,", "And give you cause for gratitude and praise.”"]}, {"id": "D12.5.4", "lines": ["Qobad, on hearing, entered full of cheer;", "They named the newborn Kisra, bright and dear."]}, {"id": "D12.5.5", "lines": ["He asked the noble, “Tell me, honored friend,", "From what ancestral line do you descend?”"]}, {"id": "D12.5.6", "lines": ["He said, “From valiant Fereydoon I came,", "Who stripped cruel Zahhak of crown and name."]}, {"id": "D12.5.7", "lines": ["My father taught me, from my earliest day,", "To honor Fereydoon in every way.”"]}, {"id": "D12.5.8", "lines": ["Qobad rejoiced far more that day, when told,", "Than when he first received his crown of gold."]}, {"id": "D12.5.9", "lines": ["He had a litter brought; his bride took her place", "Within, and then he marched at battle’s pace."]}, {"id": "D12.5.10", "lines": ["He led his army on toward Tisfoon’s seat,", "Enraged at Iran’s men, and their deceit."]}, {"id": "D12.5.11", "lines": ["Meanwhile, Iran’s old chiefs and sages met,", "With elders and great nobles in regret."]}, {"id": "D12.5.12", "lines": ["They said, “This strife between the royal pair", "May last too long for us and ours to bear."]}, {"id": "D12.5.13", "lines": ["From Rum and Chin great armies march in force;", "If we divide, then bloodshed runs its course."]}, {"id": "D12.5.14", "lines": ["We must go forth to Qobad and appear;", "Perhaps the past will fade when we draw near."]}, {"id": "D12.5.15", "lines": ["Bring young Jamasp, just ten, whose tears descend", "Like pearls, that this hostility may end."]}, {"id": "D12.5.16", "lines": ["Thus may we turn his anger into peace,", "And bid the threat of war and ruin cease.”"]}, {"id": "D12.5.17", "lines": ["They went to meet Qobad and spoke this plea:", "“O Shah of royal stock and majesty,"]}, {"id": "D12.5.18", "lines": ["If you have wounded hearts with deeds severe,", "Our insolence has cost us many a tear."]}, {"id": "D12.5.19", "lines": ["The Shah commands the world; command us all,", "And let no bloodshed on Iran befall.”"]}, {"id": "D12.5.20", "lines": ["They came on foot, with dust upon each head,", "Their hearts in grief, their faces pale with dread."]}, {"id": "D12.5.21", "lines": ["The Shah forgave his lords; their pleas outweighed", "The blood that would be shed by vengeful blade."]}, {"id": "D12.5.22", "lines": ["He pardoned young Jamasp; the nobles prayed,", "And blessings on the king of kings were laid."]}, {"id": "D12.5.23", "lines": ["He came and sat upon the royal seat;", "Jamasp bowed low, submissive at his feet."]}, {"id": "D12.5.24", "lines": ["Qobad entrusted Rizmehr with command,", "For he had served with loyal heart and hand."]}, {"id": "D12.5.25", "lines": ["He gave him wealth and set him by his side;", "Through him the realm was ordered far and wide."]}, {"id": "D12.5.26", "lines": ["Thus matters fared until young Kisra grew,", "A bold young prince whom all the kingdom knew."]}, {"id": "D12.5.27", "lines": ["He placed his son in learned teachers’ care,", "That fruitful branch, so promising and fair."]}, {"id": "D12.5.28", "lines": ["His writ through both Iran and Turan passed;", "Beneath the turning sky his crown stood fast."]}, {"id": "D12.5.29", "lines": ["He marched on Rum; its fortress could not stand,", "But turned like wax beneath his mighty hand."]}, {"id": "D12.5.30", "lines": ["He made that land a wilderness of thorn;", "Its fields lay bare, its countryside forlorn."]}, {"id": "D12.5.31", "lines": ["Two cities in that land, when he drew near,", "Mandia and Farqin, sought quarter here."]}, {"id": "D12.5.32", "lines": ["He taught the Zand and set the faith in place,", "With fire temples built to mark its grace."]}, {"id": "D12.5.33", "lines": ["He kept Nowruz and Sadeh’s rites complete;", "He founded Madain as the royal seat."]}, {"id": "D12.5.34", "lines": ["He wrought both good and ill, and built a town", "Between Ahvaz and Pars of fair renown."]}, {"id": "D12.5.35", "lines": ["He built a hospital to tend the weak,", "Where those in pain could come, relief to seek."]}, {"id": "D12.5.36", "lines": ["He named it Aran; in the Arab tongue,", "The name of Holvan to that city clung."]}, {"id": "D12.5.37", "lines": ["They opened canals; the streams began to flow,", "And all the land found rest from toil and woe."]}, {"id": "D12.6.1", "lines": ["There rose a man named Mazdak, shrewd and wise,", "A learned speaker, keen in all men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "D12.6.2", "lines": ["Judicious, bold, commanding, quick of mind,", "Whose trade was knowledge, foremost of his kind."]}, {"id": "D12.6.3", "lines": ["Brave King Qobad gave ear to what he said,", "And raised him high, where royal counsels led."]}, {"id": "D12.6.4", "lines": ["He made him minister, his closest guide,", "And made him keeper of the wealth inside."]}, {"id": "D12.6.5", "lines": ["Then drought brought famine on the world entire,", "And every soul was ravaged by its fire."]}, {"id": "D12.6.6", "lines": ["No snow appeared; no rain fell from the sky", "In all Iran; the land lay parched and dry."]}, {"id": "D12.6.7", "lines": ["At length the nobles of the world came near,", "To beg for bread and water, wan with fear."]}, {"id": "D12.6.8", "lines": ["They stood before Qobad’s imperial gate,", "Afflicted by the famine and their fate."]}, {"id": "D12.6.9", "lines": ["Mazdak then gave the waiting crowd this word:", "“The Shah will show a path when I am heard.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.10", "lines": ["Then he himself went hastily within,", "Before the king, and let his speech begin."]}, {"id": "D12.6.11", "lines": ["He said, “O upright Shah, I ask of you", "A question, if your grace will answer true.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.12", "lines": ["Qobad replied, “Speak on, and by your art", "Bring fresh illumination to my heart.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.13", "lines": ["Mazdak rejoined, “A man lies serpent-stung;", "His life is ebbing, and his hope is wrung."]}, {"id": "D12.6.14", "lines": ["Another has the nush-daru nearby,", "Yet will not give it, though the victim die."]}, {"id": "D12.6.15", "lines": ["He holds full twenty dirhams’ weight of cure;", "What punishment should such a man endure?”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.16", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “He caused the other’s death;", "Let him be slain for stealing life and breath."]}, {"id": "D12.6.17", "lines": ["When justice seizes him, then let him die;", "The victim’s blood for vengeance makes its cry.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.18", "lines": ["When Mazdak heard, he left the palace gate,", "And spoke to those who bore the famine’s weight:"]}, {"id": "D12.6.19", "lines": ["“I laid the case before the Shah’s own ear;", "At dawn the rightful path shall be made clear.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.20", "lines": ["They went away, and at the break of day", "Returned with hearts afflicted by delay."]}, {"id": "D12.6.21", "lines": ["When Mazdak saw those chiefs again appear,", "He ran to Qobad’s portal, drawing near."]}, {"id": "D12.6.22", "lines": ["He said, “Victorious Shah, whose words give light,", "Whose sleepless grace defends the royal height,"]}, {"id": "D12.6.23", "lines": ["You gave an answer when I spoke before,", "And with that answer opened wisdom’s door."]}, {"id": "D12.6.24", "lines": ["Grant leave, and I will set a question plain,", "And ask what justice bids a king ordain.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.25", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Speak freely; do not close", "Your lips, for wisdom from your counsel flows.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.26", "lines": ["Mazdak said, “Noble king, suppose one soul", "Holds someone else in bondage and control."]}, {"id": "D12.6.27", "lines": ["They keep all food from him until he dies,", "And life departs before their watching eyes."]}, {"id": "D12.6.28", "lines": ["How should the man with bread be punished then,", "Who let the captive starve before all men?"]}, {"id": "D12.6.29", "lines": ["Even if learned and devout, must he", "Escape the guilt? What should his sentence be?”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.30", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Tear such a man apart;", "Through his neglect he bears a murderer’s heart.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.31", "lines": ["When Mazdak heard, he kissed the royal ground,", "Then stood before the hungry crowd around."]}, {"id": "D12.6.32", "lines": ["He cried, “Go to the grain-stores; take your share,", "And save yourselves from famine and despair."]}, {"id": "D12.6.33", "lines": ["If owners ask its value, pay in gold;", "Let none die hungry while the stores still hold.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.34", "lines": ["His own supplies of grain he freely gave,", "That all the hungry folk he thus might save."]}, {"id": "D12.6.35", "lines": ["Then all the starving people rushed for grain,", "And plundered every store to ease their pain."]}, {"id": "D12.6.36", "lines": ["The citizens’ and Qobad’s stores they seized,", "And through the plunder hunger’s pangs were eased."]}, {"id": "D12.6.37", "lines": ["The wardens saw the grain-stores stripped and bare,", "And brought the matter to the monarch’s care."]}, {"id": "D12.6.38", "lines": ["They said, “The mob has sacked the Shah’s own store,", "Yet all the fault returns to Mazdak’s door.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.39", "lines": ["Qobad commanded Mazdak to appear,", "And questioned him about the plunder near."]}, {"id": "D12.6.40", "lines": ["Mazdak replied, “May Fortune favor you;", "May wisdom be your guide and portion too."]}, {"id": "D12.6.41", "lines": ["I only told the hungry market crowd", "The judgment that the Shah himself avowed."]}, {"id": "D12.6.42", "lines": ["I asked about the serpent’s fatal bite,", "And one who kept the nush-daru from sight."]}, {"id": "D12.6.43", "lines": ["The Shah replied: ‘If any man should die", "Of snakebite while the cure is standing by,"]}, {"id": "D12.6.44", "lines": ["The man who kept the cure must pay the price", "In blood; no lesser payment will suffice.’"]}, {"id": "D12.6.45", "lines": ["Bread is the nush-daru for hungry men;", "The well-fed have no need to take it then."]}, {"id": "D12.6.46", "lines": ["If you, great Shah, would have your judgments just,", "Should hoarded grain lie idle, turned to dust?"]}, {"id": "D12.6.47", "lines": ["A multitude has died through hunger’s pain;", "Their blood lies on the hoarded stores of grain.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.48", "lines": ["Qobad grew sore distressed at Mazdak’s word;", "Its plea for justice all his senses stirred."]}, {"id": "D12.6.49", "lines": ["He questioned Mazdak, listened, and perceived", "A learned mind; persuaded, he believed."]}, {"id": "D12.6.50", "lines": ["The teachings of the prophets, once held dear,", "And those of right Mobadan, once so clear,"]}, {"id": "D12.6.51", "lines": ["Through Mazdak’s words grew crooked in his mind;", "His speech left every proper bound behind."]}, {"id": "D12.6.52", "lines": ["To Mazdak flocked the crowd, a swelling tide,", "The many who had turned from truth aside."]}, {"id": "D12.6.53", "lines": ["He said, “The empty-handed man shall stand", "Equal to him who owns wealth, house, and land."]}, {"id": "D12.6.54", "lines": ["Let rich and poor stand equal; none possess", "More than another, nor be left with less."]}, {"id": "D12.6.55", "lines": ["The wealthy are the warp, the poor the woof;", "The world needs balance, justice, and its proof."]}, {"id": "D12.6.56", "lines": ["The world must stand in balance, even, true;", "Why should the rich seek more than others do?"]}, {"id": "D12.6.57", "lines": ["No man should rise through wealth while others fall;", "Women, goods, and houses are for all."]}, {"id": "D12.6.58", "lines": ["The empty-handed and the rich are one;", "Thus shall the holy faith’s true work be done."]}, {"id": "D12.6.59", "lines": ["The high and low will then be manifest;", "The world will know the basest and the best."]}, {"id": "D12.6.60", "lines": ["Whoever follows any other creed", "Is cursed by God for choosing such a deed.”"]}, {"id": "D12.6.61", "lines": ["He treated mendicants, with staff and bowl,", "As peers beside him, men he would extol."]}, {"id": "D12.6.62", "lines": ["He took from this man and bestowed on that;", "The wise Mobadan marveled where they sat."]}, {"id": "D12.6.63", "lines": ["Qobad embraced his faith with willing heart,", "Rejoicing in Mazdak’s persuasive art."]}, {"id": "D12.6.64", "lines": ["He seated Mazdak at his own right hand;", "The troops were lost: where did the Mobad stand?"]}, {"id": "D12.6.65", "lines": ["The poor came flocking, those in daily need,", "And those who worked for bread embraced his creed."]}, {"id": "D12.6.66", "lines": ["His creed spread through the world; none dared defy", "The man, or let their hatred meet his eye."]}, {"id": "D12.6.67", "lines": ["The wealthy bowed their heads in deep distress,", "And gave the poor the goods they did possess."]}, {"id": "D12.7.1", "lines": ["At dawn Mazdak went out before the king,", "Intent upon the claim he meant to bring."]}, {"id": "D12.7.2", "lines": ["He said, “The faithful gather at the gate;", "Shall they come in, or must they leave and wait?”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.3", "lines": ["Qobad then bade the chamberlain obey,", "And bring Mazdak’s assembled men that day."]}, {"id": "D12.7.4", "lines": ["Mazdak replied, “This house is far too small;", "The crowd will overflow the audience hall."]}, {"id": "D12.7.5", "lines": ["Let now the Shah go out beneath the sky,", "And view your servants mustered standing by.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.6", "lines": ["Qobad commanded that his throne be set", "Out in the open, where the throngs had met."]}, {"id": "D12.7.7", "lines": ["Three thousand of Mazdak’s men now drew near,", "And thronged before the Shah with open cheer."]}, {"id": "D12.7.8", "lines": ["Mazdak addressed the monarch of the earth:", "“O king whose wisdom stands above all worth,"]}, {"id": "D12.7.9", "lines": ["Know this: Kisra rejects the faith we teach;", "Shall such defiance stand beyond our reach?"]}, {"id": "D12.7.10", "lines": ["He must give written pledge before your face", "To turn from error and our faith embrace."]}, {"id": "D12.7.11", "lines": ["Five things alone turn mortal men aside;", "No sage has ever named a sixth beside."]}, {"id": "D12.7.12", "lines": ["They are envy and vengeance, anger, need;", "The fifth, which masters men, is grasping greed."]}, {"id": "D12.7.13", "lines": ["Conquer these five Divs, and you soon will see", "God’s open pathway shining clear and free."]}, {"id": "D12.7.14", "lines": ["From wealth and women these five ills arise;", "They ruin faith and darken human eyes."]}, {"id": "D12.7.15", "lines": ["Make wealth and women common; strife will cease:", "No greed, no envy, no revenge, but peace."]}, {"id": "D12.7.16", "lines": ["For these two kindle need and jealous fire,", "While wrath and vengeance answer their desire."]}, {"id": "D12.7.17", "lines": ["Thus does the Div corrupt the wisest head;", "Let goods and women both be shared instead.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.18", "lines": ["Then Mazdak took Prince Kisra’s hand; surprise", "Filled Shah Qobad, who watched with wondering eyes."]}, {"id": "D12.7.19", "lines": ["The prince pulled back, his anger like a flame,", "And turned from Mazdak with a look of blame."]}, {"id": "D12.7.20", "lines": ["Qobad said, smiling, “Why should you declare", "Such concern for the faith Kisra may bear?”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.21", "lines": ["Mazdak replied, “His path is not our own;", "No trace of our religion there is shown.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.22", "lines": ["The Shah asked Kisra, “How can you decline", "The path of faith, the righteous and divine?”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.23", "lines": ["Kisra replied, “Grant me the needed span,", "And I will prove the falsehood of this plan."]}, {"id": "D12.7.24", "lines": ["When fraud and error both are brought to light,", "My truth will stand more visible and bright.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.25", "lines": ["Mazdak then asked, “What span will serve your view?", "Ask of the Shah, whose splendor shines on you.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.26", "lines": ["Kisra replied, “Five months I ask today;", "The sixth month come, then I shall have my say.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.27", "lines": ["They set the term and ended their debate;", "The Shah returned to halls of royal state."]}, {"id": "D12.7.28", "lines": ["Kisra sent envoys forth to every clime,", "To seek the sages, wise men of their time."]}, {"id": "D12.7.29", "lines": ["He sent one to Khorra-e-Ardeshir,", "To summon old Hormizd and bring him here."]}, {"id": "D12.7.30", "lines": ["From Istakhr came Mehr-Azar of Pars,", "With thirty learned men beneath the stars."]}, {"id": "D12.7.31", "lines": ["These seekers gathered, weighing every claim,", "And sifted Mazdak’s doctrine, word, and aim."]}, {"id": "D12.7.32", "lines": ["The men of ancient knowledge then made known", "Their settled judgment to the prince alone."]}, {"id": "D12.7.33", "lines": ["Kisra, when he had heard their full debate,", "Went to Qobad and spoke of Mazdak’s fate."]}, {"id": "D12.7.34", "lines": ["“The time has come,” he said, “for me to test", "This creed, and learn which teaching serves God best."]}, {"id": "D12.7.35", "lines": ["If Mazdak proves the truth, and Zardosht’s creed", "Is shown as false, I follow in his lead."]}, {"id": "D12.7.36", "lines": ["I will accept his faith and choose his road,", "And take his doctrine for my soul’s abode."]}, {"id": "D12.7.37", "lines": ["If Fereydoon’s own path should prove untrue,", "And all the Zand’s instruction fail us too,"]}, {"id": "D12.7.38", "lines": ["And if Mazdak’s new doctrine stands upright,", "The world must take him as its guiding light."]}, {"id": "D12.7.39", "lines": ["But if his words prove false, a hollow show,", "And God’s true path he never sought to know,"]}, {"id": "D12.7.40", "lines": ["Then turn away from his corrupted creed,", "And hand them to me for their lawless deed."]}, {"id": "D12.7.41", "lines": ["God grant that none who work this fraud and sin", "May keep the brain beneath the sheltering skin.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.42", "lines": ["He called Rizmehr, Khordad, Behzad by name,", "With Farayin and Bandvi, to proclaim."]}, {"id": "D12.7.43", "lines": ["Then Kisra to his palace-hall withdrew,", "And kept his pledge until the term fell due."]}, {"id": "D12.7.44", "lines": ["At dawn, when sunlight lifted up its crown,", "And ivory brightness over earth streamed down,"]}, {"id": "D12.7.45", "lines": ["The king’s own son, whose speech was clear and strong,", "Set out with Mobadan and chiefs along."]}, {"id": "D12.7.46", "lines": ["Together to the royal court they came;", "Their words were ready, truth their single aim."]}, {"id": "D12.7.47", "lines": ["The Mobad came before Qobad and spoke,", "And with his words the waiting silence broke."]}, {"id": "D12.7.48", "lines": ["A high Mobad then faced Mazdak and said,", "“You seek out wisdom, yet leave men misled."]}, {"id": "D12.7.49", "lines": ["You fashioned in the world a strange new creed,", "And shared both goods and women for men’s need."]}, {"id": "D12.7.50", "lines": ["How shall a father know his son by name?", "How shall the son know from what sire he came?"]}, {"id": "D12.7.51", "lines": ["If every man is equal in estate,", "How will the small be known apart from great?"]}, {"id": "D12.7.52", "lines": ["Who then will serve, and who will rule the realm?", "What law or order could still hold the helm?"]}, {"id": "D12.7.53", "lines": ["Who then will labor for us? Who can say", "Which men are good, which choose an evil way?"]}, {"id": "D12.7.54", "lines": ["When one man dies, who takes the wealth he leaves,", "His house, his goods, his labor, and his sheaves?"]}, {"id": "D12.7.55", "lines": ["The working man and Shah are now as one;", "How can the business of the realm be done?"]}, {"id": "D12.7.56", "lines": ["Such ruin must not fall on Iran’s name;", "It leaves the world in desolation’s flame."]}, {"id": "D12.7.57", "lines": ["When all are masters, who remains to serve?", "When all have treasure, who will wealth preserve?"]}, {"id": "D12.7.58", "lines": ["No man of faith has ever preached this lie;", "You hide your madness, yet it meets the eye."]}, {"id": "D12.7.59", "lines": ["You lead mankind toward the pit below,", "And count no evil act as sin or woe.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.60", "lines": ["Qobad heard every stern word that he spoke;", "And anger in the royal judgment woke."]}, {"id": "D12.7.61", "lines": ["The famed Kisra supported what was said;", "Fear filled Mazdak and bowed his guilty head."]}, {"id": "D12.7.62", "lines": ["The people all cried out with one intent:", "“Let no protection now to him be lent."]}, {"id": "D12.7.63", "lines": ["He has made havoc of the faith of God;", "Let him not linger where great kings have trod.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.64", "lines": ["The Shah renounced that faith; his heart grew sore", "At all that he himself had done before."]}, {"id": "D12.7.65", "lines": ["He gave Mazdak to Kisra, and consigned", "With him all men to his new creed inclined."]}, {"id": "D12.7.66", "lines": ["Three thousand men of standing, rank, and name", "Were handed over with their leader’s shame."]}, {"id": "D12.7.67", "lines": ["The king addressed his son: “Do what seems right;", "Let Mazdak’s name pass out of court and sight.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.68", "lines": ["Kisra possessed a garden by his court,", "A pleasure-ground designed for royal sport."]}, {"id": "D12.7.69", "lines": ["Its wall rose high above the hills nearby;", "Around its circuit he bade trenches lie."]}, {"id": "D12.7.70", "lines": ["Within those trenches, men were packed so tight,", "Their burial put an end to life and light."]}, {"id": "D12.7.71", "lines": ["Like trees he fixed them firmly in the ground,", "Feet raised, with heads beneath the earth fast bound."]}, {"id": "D12.7.72", "lines": ["Then he addressed Mazdak: “Come now and tread", "The garden path to which your works have led."]}, {"id": "D12.7.73", "lines": ["The seed you scattered through these troubled years", "Has borne its fruit at last before your peers."]}, {"id": "D12.7.74", "lines": ["You shall see trees no human eye has viewed,", "Whose strange design no sage has yet construed.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.75", "lines": ["Mazdak went forward to the garden gate,", "Expecting fruit-trees in their ordered state."]}, {"id": "D12.7.76", "lines": ["He opened it and saw the dreadful sight;", "He cried aloud and lost both sense and might."]}, {"id": "D12.7.77", "lines": ["Kisra then ordered that a gallows rise,", "Its height made visible beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "D12.7.78", "lines": ["A twisted noose down from the summit swung;", "Head downward from the gallows Mazdak hung."]}, {"id": "D12.7.79", "lines": ["Then arrows fell upon that impious frame,", "Until they ended both his breath and name."]}, {"id": "D12.7.80", "lines": ["Let no man follow Mazdak’s crooked way;", "His road leads downward to a bitter day."]}, {"id": "D12.7.81", "lines": ["An aged Mobad told it otherwise,", "A man of worldly knowledge, learned and wise:"]}, {"id": "D12.7.82", "lines": ["“Mazdak had sought the royal throne and ring,", "And claimed the crown belonging to the king."]}, {"id": "D12.7.83", "lines": ["The Shah had earth dug out to make his tomb;", "They cast him headfirst down to meet his doom.”"]}, {"id": "D12.7.84", "lines": ["The chiefs felt safe again in home and field,", "Their wives and children sheltered by the shield."]}, {"id": "D12.7.85", "lines": ["Qobad for many days remained ashamed,", "And cursed Mazdak, whose dark deceit he blamed."]}, {"id": "D12.7.86", "lines": ["He gave the poor rich largess from his hoard,", "And to the fire-temple his gifts he poured."]}, {"id": "D12.7.87", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced in Kisra: from his stem", "A branch had sprung that fruited gem on gem."]}, {"id": "D12.7.88", "lines": ["From then he sought his counsel in each deed,", "And listened to his words with earnest heed."]}, {"id": "D12.8.1", "lines": ["When forty years had passed beneath his crown,", "The thought of death began to weigh him down."]}, {"id": "D12.8.2", "lines": ["He had his testament on silk inscribed,", "In gracious script, as royal rule prescribed."]}, {"id": "D12.8.3", "lines": ["First praise was offered to the Judge Divine,", "Who gave us faith and made our wisdom shine."]}, {"id": "D12.8.4", "lines": ["His word stands firm in what is hid and shown,", "In every mystery and truth made known."]}, {"id": "D12.8.5", "lines": ["No eye has seen His sovereign height above;", "His chosen never lose His seal of love."]}, {"id": "D12.8.6", "lines": ["“All you who read Qobad’s command today,", "Attend the wise and hold to counsel’s way."]}, {"id": "D12.8.7", "lines": ["I give Kisra the honored throne and crown;", "May Fortune, after me, guard his renown."]}, {"id": "D12.8.8", "lines": ["May God uphold my son, and let his foes", "Choke on the smoke that from their rancor grows."]}, {"id": "D12.8.9", "lines": ["By this, my signet, let the realm obey,", "Its chiefs and Mobadan, the words I say:"]}, {"id": "D12.8.10", "lines": ["Let none transgress his word throughout the land;", "Rejoice in him, let treasure fill your hand.”"]}, {"id": "D12.8.11", "lines": ["He sealed the silk, his golden signet pressed,", "And gave Ram Barzin, Mobad, this bequest."]}, {"id": "D12.8.12", "lines": ["Qobad reached eighty years, yet even then", "He had no wish to leave the world of men."]}, {"id": "D12.8.13", "lines": ["For who on earth is satisfied to die,", "Since none can know what waits beyond the sky?"]}, {"id": "D12.8.14", "lines": ["He died; the world remained, bereft of grace;", "All hue and fragrance left the age’s face."]}, {"id": "D12.8.15", "lines": ["What profit lies in treasure’s greedy grasp,", "When empty hands are all the dead can clasp?"]}, {"id": "D12.8.16", "lines": ["They wrapped his body in rich brocade,", "With flowers, wine, musk, camphor, honors paid."]}, {"id": "D12.8.17", "lines": ["They built a royal tomb to hold his frame,", "A golden throne and crown of kingly fame."]}, {"id": "D12.8.18", "lines": ["They set the Shah upon that seat of gold,", "And sealed the path forever, dark and cold."]}, {"id": "D12.8.19", "lines": ["From then no eye beheld him where he lay;", "He crossed the world like wind and passed away."]}, {"id": "D12.8.20", "lines": ["Why trust the ancient heavens, turning still,", "Whose end brings sorrow, suffering, and ill?"]}, {"id": "D12.8.21", "lines": ["When mourning ceased, the Mobad then unrolled", "The king’s last will before the throne of gold."]}, {"id": "D12.8.22", "lines": ["Iran’s great chiefs and Mobadan were met,", "With famous sages round the council set."]}, {"id": "D12.8.23", "lines": ["The testament was read before them all,", "And gladly they obeyed King Qobad’s call."]}, {"id": "D12.8.24", "lines": ["Like blessed Fereydoon, the prince shone fair,", "With beauty, royal grace, and noble air."]}, {"id": "D12.8.25", "lines": ["They set the heir upon the throne of state,", "And Kisra took the kingdom, crowned and great."]}, {"id": "D12.8.26", "lines": ["The people hailed him sovereign of the land,", "And time and earth submitted to his hand."]}, {"id": "D12.8.27", "lines": ["They called down blessings on his crowned head,", "And all the realm was by his orders led."]}, {"id": "D12.8.28", "lines": ["His throne revived the world; beside one stream", "The wolf and sheep drank as in some fair dream."]}, {"id": "D12.8.29", "lines": ["“May this Shah hold the throne forevermore;", "May his farr pass the farr Jamshid once bore.”"]}, {"id": "D12.8.30", "lines": ["His justice, goodness, law, and sacred lore", "Brought joy to all and opened wisdom’s door."]}, {"id": "D12.8.31", "lines": ["They named him Anooshirvan; his face", "And Fortune shone with youth and youthful grace."]}, {"id": "D12.8.32", "lines": ["Now Qobad’s story ends; I turn the page,", "And tell of Kisra in the coming age."]}]}, {"id": "D13", "title": "Anooshirvan and the Road to the End-time", "summary": "20 sections · 1,600 couplets", "path": "/poem/d13/", "couplets": [{"id": "D13.1.1", "lines": ["“O lofty cypress, ravisher of hearts,", "Why are you bowed beneath such bitter darts?"]}, {"id": "D13.1.2", "lines": ["With all your former joy and beauty bright,", "Why is your radiant heart now filled with fright?”"]}, {"id": "D13.1.3", "lines": ["The cypress said, “I lived in joy and ease,", "Until old age subdued me by degrees."]}, {"id": "D13.1.4", "lines": ["I yield before the power of sixty years;", "Contend no more when such a foe appears."]}, {"id": "D13.1.5", "lines": ["It bears a dragon’s breath, a lion’s claws;", "Whoever age may seize, it grips and gnaws."]}, {"id": "D13.1.6", "lines": ["It has a rhino’s strength, a thunderous cry;", "One hand brings pain; the other bids us die."]}, {"id": "D13.1.7", "lines": ["It bends the cypress till its branches fold,", "And turns the jasmine’s white to amber gold."]}, {"id": "D13.1.8", "lines": ["It stains the Judas-tree with saffron hue,", "Then brings the toil that follows age in view."]}, {"id": "D13.1.9", "lines": ["The runner’s foot, though fetterless, is bound;", "The precious body falls, by weakness ground."]}, {"id": "D13.1.10", "lines": ["The pearls within my mouth are loosened now;", "The once proud cypress has begun to bow."]}, {"id": "D13.1.11", "lines": ["My sad narcissus eyes now overflow;", "Their strength declines through weariness and woe."]}, {"id": "D13.1.12", "lines": ["My once glad heart is filled with lasting pain;", "These latter days no generous joys retain."]}, {"id": "D13.1.13", "lines": ["The milk of infancy is scarcely past", "When Death cries ‘Old!’ and comes upon us fast."]}, {"id": "D13.1.14", "lines": ["Anooshirvan ruled forty-eight full years;", "At sixty, youth no longer reappears."]}, {"id": "D13.1.15", "lines": ["So bring your worldly business to its close,", "And cease to wound your heart with worldly woes.”"]}, {"id": "D13.2.1", "lines": ["Upon the ivory throne the monarch sat,", "And placed the radiant crown upon his hat."]}, {"id": "D13.2.2", "lines": ["The nobles gathered round the royal seat;", "Beside his counselor, he heard greetings sweet."]}, {"id": "D13.2.3", "lines": ["The Shah himself then loosed his royal tongue,", "And to the righteous Giver praise was sung."]}, {"id": "D13.2.4", "lines": ["He said, “Let all our hearts be filled with love,", "And praise the almighty Ruler high above."]}, {"id": "D13.2.5", "lines": ["From Him come good and ill, desire fulfilled;", "Through Him our hearts with grief or joy are filled."]}, {"id": "D13.2.6", "lines": ["From Him are grace and strength; at His command", "The sun shines bright above the mortal land."]}, {"id": "D13.2.7", "lines": ["We will not leave His covenant or way,", "Nor draw a breath except as He may say."]}, {"id": "D13.2.8", "lines": ["Who rules with justice from the royal seat", "Will find the joy of justice full and sweet."]}, {"id": "D13.2.9", "lines": ["But he who nurses evil in his thought", "Will reap the harm that his own heart has wrought."]}, {"id": "D13.2.10", "lines": ["Whatever you may ask, we shall reply,", "And bring you joy whenever you apply."]}, {"id": "D13.2.11", "lines": ["Delay not till tomorrow this day’s deed;", "Who knows what fruit tomorrow’s hour may breed?"]}, {"id": "D13.2.12", "lines": ["The rose that blooms so beautifully today", "May fade before tomorrow slips away."]}, {"id": "D13.2.13", "lines": ["While strength is yours, remember sickness still,", "And think of pain before your body’s ill."]}, {"id": "D13.2.14", "lines": ["While yet alive, think what your death will be;", "We are the leaves the wind strips from the tree."]}, {"id": "D13.2.15", "lines": ["Whenever you neglect the task that waits,", "Disorder creeps into your own estates."]}, {"id": "D13.2.16", "lines": ["When envy takes possession of the heart,", "No healer cures that sickness by his art."]}, {"id": "D13.2.17", "lines": ["Desire that conquers reason makes it plain", "That madness in the mind has come to reign."]}, {"id": "D13.2.18", "lines": ["The idle man who spends his days in talk", "Loses respect wherever he may walk."]}, {"id": "D13.2.19", "lines": ["The tongue that joins itself to falsehood’s night", "Will win no radiance from Fortune’s light."]}, {"id": "D13.2.20", "lines": ["A king who wakes in health, secure from foes,", "Who has enough to eat, and wisdom knows,"]}, {"id": "D13.2.21", "lines": ["Has all he needs; to seek for more than these", "Brings greed and pain, and robs his heart of ease."]}, {"id": "D13.2.22", "lines": ["When Shahs are just, humane, and freely give,", "The world finds peace, and all its people live."]}, {"id": "D13.2.23", "lines": ["But if a king lets crooked judgment grow,", "His food turns bitter, blood his drink of woe."]}, {"id": "D13.2.24", "lines": ["Yet we must hear the minister’s report;", "Through him both good and ill shall reach our court."]}, {"id": "D13.2.25", "lines": ["Whoever comes with business to our gate,", "Yet finds no access and is left to wait,"]}, {"id": "D13.2.26", "lines": ["I will not back the minister who tries", "To keep that grievance hidden from my eyes."]}, {"id": "D13.2.27", "lines": ["As for the men who serve me, old and new,", "And captains brave who lead my armies through,"]}, {"id": "D13.2.28", "lines": ["As I withhold no stipend that is due,", "So must they guard their honor, firm and true."]}, {"id": "D13.2.29", "lines": ["Let kindness and integrity prevail;", "Let none through negligence in service fail."]}, {"id": "D13.2.30", "lines": ["Whoever, born Iranian, girds his waist", "To serve within our court with loyal haste,"]}, {"id": "D13.2.31", "lines": ["Shall have both treasure and kind words from me,", "If modest, shrewd, and loyal he should be."]}, {"id": "D13.2.32", "lines": ["But if he crushes those beneath his hand,", "And fears not God while ruling in the land,"]}, {"id": "D13.2.33", "lines": ["Then punishment shall answer for his crime;", "I will not mourn him at the appointed time."]}, {"id": "D13.2.34", "lines": ["Keep God’s command in all you say and do;", "Fear Him, not us: He rules all monarchs too."]}, {"id": "D13.2.35", "lines": ["He lights the crown, the sun, the moon at night;", "He judges judges, guides our steps upright."]}, {"id": "D13.2.36", "lines": ["He kindled love for us within each heart,", "And blinded hostile eyes by sovereign art."]}, {"id": "D13.2.37", "lines": ["From lowly straw to heaven’s seventh height,", "All things bear witness to His sovereign might."]}, {"id": "D13.2.38", "lines": ["The fire and water, earth on which we stand,", "Reveal His being, make us understand.”"]}, {"id": "D13.2.39", "lines": ["When Anooshirvan spoke, the gathered crowd", "Was lost in wonder, and they praised aloud."]}, {"id": "D13.2.40", "lines": ["They rose to greet the Shah upon his seat,", "With fresh acclaim and homage at his feet."]}, {"id": "D13.3.1", "lines": ["The king of kings called wise men to his side,", "And ordered worldly matters far and wide."]}, {"id": "D13.3.2", "lines": ["He parted all the peopled earth in four,", "And gave each region rulers, laws, and store."]}, {"id": "D13.3.3", "lines": ["First Khorasan engaged his careful thought;", "By that decree the nobles’ joy was wrought."]}, {"id": "D13.3.4", "lines": ["The second part held Qum, Isfahan’s seat,", "Where chiefs and nobles made their councils meet."]}, {"id": "D13.3.5", "lines": ["Azar Abadagan was in that share,", "Which noble men divided with due care."]}, {"id": "D13.3.6", "lines": ["The wary Shah joined Ardabil to these,", "Armenia, and Gilan by the seas."]}, {"id": "D13.3.7", "lines": ["The third stretched east to west through Pars’s bounds,", "Ahvaz, and Khazar marches’ outer grounds."]}, {"id": "D13.3.8", "lines": ["The fourth was Iraq and the Roman land,", "A populous realm beneath his ordered hand."]}, {"id": "D13.3.9", "lines": ["Within these marches, to the poor who earned", "Their bread by toil, the Shah’s compassion turned."]}, {"id": "D13.3.10", "lines": ["He opened up the treasures he had stored,", "And all folk blessed the justice of their lord."]}, {"id": "D13.3.11", "lines": ["Of former Shahs, the greater and the small,", "Each took a portion of the crops from all."]}, {"id": "D13.3.12", "lines": ["No man escaped the burden of that tax;", "The royal share had fallen on their backs."]}, {"id": "D13.3.13", "lines": ["A third or fourth was once the crown’s demand,", "Until Qobad took one-tenth from the land."]}, {"id": "D13.3.14", "lines": ["He meant to ease that burden further still,", "And raise the lowly nearer to his will."]}, {"id": "D13.3.15", "lines": ["He strove to lift the poor beside the lord,", "But Fortune would not grant him time’s reward."]}, {"id": "D13.3.16", "lines": ["Trust not the fierce nahang within the stream;", "Such worldly hopes dissolve like a brief dream."]}, {"id": "D13.3.17", "lines": ["When Kisra took the throne, he set the rate", "By land assessment, ending tithes of state."]}, {"id": "D13.3.18", "lines": ["The sages, chiefs, and Mobadan drew round,", "With shrewd provincial rulers on the ground."]}, {"id": "D13.3.19", "lines": ["They stretched the survey cords across the land,", "And set a one-dirham assessed demand."]}, {"id": "D13.3.20", "lines": ["That levy was so modest in its claim", "The owners did not suffer hurt or shame."]}, {"id": "D13.3.21", "lines": ["Those lacking seed or beasts received due aid", "From royal treasure till their crops were made."]}, {"id": "D13.3.22", "lines": ["All fallow land was left outside account;", "Old customary levies ceased to count."]}, {"id": "D13.3.23", "lines": ["On fruitful vineyards six dirhams were laid,", "Assessed as tax, by settled measure paid."]}, {"id": "D13.3.24", "lines": ["Date-palm plantations paid the same by law;", "The scribes set down each levy that they saw."]}, {"id": "D13.3.25", "lines": ["From olive, walnut, other trees that bore", "At Mehrgan, tax was paid into the store."]}, {"id": "D13.3.26", "lines": ["One dirham out of every ten was due;", "No further levy came the whole year through."]}, {"id": "D13.3.27", "lines": ["The fruits that ripened in Khordad’s fair days", "Were held exempt beneath the royal gaze."]}, {"id": "D13.3.28", "lines": ["From men of means who owned no field or grain,", "The yearly due was fixed and rendered plain."]}, {"id": "D13.3.29", "lines": ["From four to ten dirhams might be their due,", "None was crushed by the sums collectors drew."]}, {"id": "D13.3.30", "lines": ["The yearly sum in three installments lay;", "Each fourth month brought a third for them to pay."]}, {"id": "D13.3.31", "lines": ["The scribes and servants of the royal state", "Were not included in this levy’s rate."]}, {"id": "D13.3.32", "lines": ["The Shah had every toll and impost named,", "By Mobadan recorded, checked, and framed."]}, {"id": "D13.3.33", "lines": ["Three ledgers held the whole of the account,", "So ministers could know the full amount."]}, {"id": "D13.3.34", "lines": ["One ledger went into the treasury chest,", "To make the treasurer answer every test."]}, {"id": "D13.3.35", "lines": ["A second went through all the realm’s domain,", "To men of power who kept the coin and grain."]}, {"id": "D13.3.36", "lines": ["The third was handed to the Mobad band,", "To keep account of tribute in the land."]}, {"id": "D13.3.37", "lines": ["He scattered watchers over every place,", "To bring him word of good and evil’s trace."]}, {"id": "D13.3.38", "lines": ["He filled the earth’s broad face with rule and peace,", "And made the fallow fields their fruit release."]}, {"id": "D13.3.39", "lines": ["His people all lay safe on plain and hill,", "While wolf and sheep drank on, and feared no ill."]}, {"id": "D13.3.40", "lines": ["He bade them write in Pahlavi that day,", "A worthy message, which I now relay."]}, {"id": "D13.3.41", "lines": ["On Bahram day, in Khordad, it was penned,", "The royal word his servants would attend."]}, {"id": "D13.3.42", "lines": ["It opened, “From Anooshirvan, king of kings,", "The worshipper of God, from whom grace springs,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.43", "lines": ["A fruiting branch from King Qobad’s old tree,", "Who wears the crown of royal majesty,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.44", "lines": ["To stewards who collect the revenue,", "And serve our throne’s wide shadow, tried and true,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.45", "lines": ["Wholehearted greetings from our throne we send", "To those in whom both worth and lineage blend."]}, {"id": "D13.3.46", "lines": ["Here at the outset of our work, we raise", "First to the Maker of the world our praise."]}, {"id": "D13.3.47", "lines": ["Know this: the man is wise and shrewd of heart", "Whose praise of God becomes his foremost art."]}, {"id": "D13.3.48", "lines": ["He knows that God has never needed us,", "And hidden things are clear before Him thus."]}, {"id": "D13.3.49", "lines": ["When He would raise a mortal by His hand,", "He frees him first from need at His command."]}, {"id": "D13.3.50", "lines": ["He bade me judge, though judgment is His own,", "Beyond all height and measure ever known."]}, {"id": "D13.3.51", "lines": ["Before Him king and subject stand as one;", "Through faithful service, worthy deeds are done."]}, {"id": "D13.3.52", "lines": ["From earth’s abyss to heaven’s highest frame,", "From sun to dust, all testify His name."]}, {"id": "D13.3.53", "lines": ["The ant’s foot bears its witness that He is;", "We are His servants, and the kingdom His."]}, {"id": "D13.3.54", "lines": ["His every order sent to us is right;", "The Div brings lies and loss and moral night."]}, {"id": "D13.3.55", "lines": ["If my allotted share of earth had been", "A garden, grove, and palace walled within,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.56", "lines": ["My heart had still inclined to love and good,", "And faced all people as a just man should."]}, {"id": "D13.3.57", "lines": ["But now the Holy God, from east to west,", "Has placed the whole world under my behest."]}, {"id": "D13.3.58", "lines": ["From sunlit height to dark and troubled dust,", "He gave me sovereignty as sacred trust."]}, {"id": "D13.3.59", "lines": ["I must uphold both love and justice still,", "Though care should furrow brow and burden will."]}, {"id": "D13.3.60", "lines": ["If shepherds are careless and fields are wide,", "No sheep escape the wolf on any side."]}, {"id": "D13.3.61", "lines": ["As for our subjects, those who work the land,", "And those who at the sacred fires stand,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.62", "lines": ["Whether on dusty roads or ships at sea,", "By night or day, wherever they may be,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.63", "lines": ["Or merchants, whether ships or roads they ply,", "With coins, bright pearls, and musk beneath the sky,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.64", "lines": ["The sun must never shine from heaven above", "Upon them save through justice and through love."]}, {"id": "D13.3.65", "lines": ["It was the custom of our ancient race", "That sons should hold their fathers’ crown and place."]}, {"id": "D13.3.66", "lines": ["Then justice reigned, and goodness walked abroad;", "No deed was cloaked in darkness or in fraud."]}, {"id": "D13.3.67", "lines": ["We levy tax on every field and tree,", "To feed the crown by measured, just decree."]}, {"id": "D13.3.68", "lines": ["When this decree is brought to you, may grace", "From Ormozd make your Fortune hold its place."]}, {"id": "D13.3.69", "lines": ["Who takes one dirham past the measured rate,", "And wrongs a subject of my royal state,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.70", "lines": ["I swear by God, who crowned me, this shall be:", "No shield shall keep that guilty servant free."]}, {"id": "D13.3.71", "lines": ["His guilty body I shall saw right through;", "God’s chastisement will fall as evil’s due."]}, {"id": "D13.3.72", "lines": ["Observe this letter and its clear command,", "And keep the sacred Way with heart and hand."]}, {"id": "D13.3.73", "lines": ["Demand with justice, tempered by restraint,", "Each four-month share, without grief or complaint."]}, {"id": "D13.3.74", "lines": ["But where the locusts ravaged field and grain,", "Or sunbeams struck the earth with parching pain,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.75", "lines": ["Or snow and wind descending from the sky", "Have harmed the crops on which the farms rely,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.76", "lines": ["Or if New Year has brought no rain to bless", "The joyful crops, now vexed by drought’s distress,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.77", "lines": ["Demand no tax where stricken fields remain", "Sun-cracked and parched, and bare of standing grain."]}, {"id": "D13.3.78", "lines": ["Repay the seed and laborers’ full hire", "From royal wealth, as justice may require."]}, {"id": "D13.3.79", "lines": ["When land’s own master dies and leaves no heir,", "Let not the fields fall barren for lack of care."]}, {"id": "D13.3.80", "lines": ["Else those who wish me ill will bring me shame,", "And point to ruined lands to stain my name."]}, {"id": "D13.3.81", "lines": ["Give what is needed from the royal store,", "For God has set me far from wanting more."]}, {"id": "D13.3.82", "lines": ["If lands within my power come to harm,", "What use is then my sheltering wing and arm?"]}, {"id": "D13.3.83", "lines": ["Whoever bears the burden of command,", "Yet shirks the task entrusted to his hand,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.84", "lines": ["Whether great lord or servant placed below,", "Shall hang where all his faults are plain to show."]}, {"id": "D13.3.85", "lines": ["The Shahs of former days had different ways;", "Their chiefs held power over blame and praise."]}, {"id": "D13.3.86", "lines": ["They never ceased from gathering their gold;", "My wealth is justice, wealth no thief can hold."]}, {"id": "D13.3.87", "lines": ["The people of the realm sustain my reign;", "I set no heart on hoarded gold and gain."]}, {"id": "D13.3.88", "lines": ["Your charge: uphold the world through what is right,", "And keep the honor of good birth in sight."]}, {"id": "D13.3.89", "lines": ["The chief of ranks who barters men for pay", "Shall never cross my court, nor near me stay."]}, {"id": "D13.3.90", "lines": ["When my shrewd stewards at the court appear,", "Before the Mobadan their counts to clear,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.91", "lines": ["If falsehood shows itself in any speech,", "No grace of ours again shall be in reach."]}, {"id": "D13.3.92", "lines": ["I do not love the tyrant’s cruel face;", "The leopard and oppressor share one place."]}, {"id": "D13.3.93", "lines": ["All those who follow God’s appointed way,", "And bathe dark souls in wisdom’s cleansing ray,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.94", "lines": ["Shall have a lofty station at our court,", "And Mobadan shall praise them in report."]}, {"id": "D13.3.95", "lines": ["For every righteous seed they choose to sow,", "God grants them Paradise, where blessings glow."]}, {"id": "D13.3.96", "lines": ["We are ourselves exempt from need of wealth,", "Which curses and diminishes the soul’s health."]}, {"id": "D13.3.97", "lines": ["Who feeds upon the poor man’s flesh for gain", "Shall find his food turned bitterness and pain."]}, {"id": "D13.3.98", "lines": ["Better a leopard than a king so base,", "With neither shame nor faith before his face."]}, {"id": "D13.3.99", "lines": ["The road of right lies open to the eye;", "Why knock at folly’s door, where spirits die?"]}, {"id": "D13.3.100", "lines": ["To do ill secretly, yet justice show", "So public praise may through the kingdom flow,"]}, {"id": "D13.3.101", "lines": ["Will never win God’s favor or our own,", "Nor be esteemed before our royal throne."]}, {"id": "D13.3.102", "lines": ["But God and we approve the one whose care", "Makes love and justice one in all they share.”"]}, {"id": "D13.3.103", "lines": ["So ran the royal letter, sealed and sent;", "Through all the realm Anooshirvan’s order went."]}, {"id": "D13.3.104", "lines": ["The world will praise forever such a king,", "Whose righteous rule made all the kingdom spring."]}, {"id": "D13.4.1", "lines": ["Of all the Shahs who ever wore the crown,", "None matched his justice or his high renown."]}, {"id": "D13.4.2", "lines": ["May lasting youth be granted to his soul;", "His justice made the wounded kingdom whole."]}, {"id": "D13.4.3", "lines": ["No Shah was more revered for crown and art,", "For knowledge, manhood, greatness of the heart."]}, {"id": "D13.4.4", "lines": ["He had a Mobad; Babak was his name;", "Wise, fortunate, and shrewd in deed and fame."]}, {"id": "D13.4.5", "lines": ["He gave him charge of mustering them all,", "And placed his office by the palace wall."]}, {"id": "D13.4.6", "lines": ["He bade him build it broad before the gate,", "And raise it high in fitting royal state."]}, {"id": "D13.4.7", "lines": ["He furnished it with carpets fit for kings,", "To seat the clerks who handled martial things."]}, {"id": "D13.4.8", "lines": ["A proclamation then went far and wide,", "And summoned every warrior to its side:"]}, {"id": "D13.4.9", "lines": ["“Famed warriors, mount; to meet the Shah prepare;", "Attend his royal gate with speed and care."]}, {"id": "D13.4.10", "lines": ["All you who seek reward from sovereign hands,", "Come armed and ready from your several lands."]}, {"id": "D13.4.11", "lines": ["Set iron helmets firmly on your heads,", "Put on your jowshans, leave your peaceful beds."]}, {"id": "D13.4.12", "lines": ["Bear ox-head gorzes, weapons, bows, and gear;", "Let every man of war be mustered here.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.13", "lines": ["The troops came thronging to Babak’s review;", "Their horses’ dust rose dark across the blue."]}, {"id": "D13.4.14", "lines": ["But when Babak reviewed the martial train,", "The foremost warrior had not reached the plain."]}, {"id": "D13.4.15", "lines": ["He left the office, mounted on his steed,", "And sent the soldiers homeward at full speed."]}, {"id": "D13.4.16", "lines": ["The turning sky continued on its way,", "Until the radiant sun displayed the day."]}, {"id": "D13.4.17", "lines": ["Again before the palace gate they cried:", "“You men of Iran, bear your gorzes; ride."]}, {"id": "D13.4.18", "lines": ["Go fully armed, with jowshan, bow, and spear,", "And come before Babak for muster here.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.19", "lines": ["They came with helmets, jowshans, and kamands;", "Their dust rose like a veil across the lands."]}, {"id": "D13.4.20", "lines": ["Again Babak surveyed the mustered corps,", "But still the Shah had not approached the door."]}, {"id": "D13.4.21", "lines": ["He saw no royal farr, no kingly state,", "And told the warriors not to stand and wait:"]}, {"id": "D13.4.22", "lines": ["“Return in joy, victorious each of you,", "In love and duty, loyal, tried, and true.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.23", "lines": ["Again the third day rose the public cry:", "“You men of name, whose farr is from the sky,"]}, {"id": "D13.4.24", "lines": ["Let no man ride before this office here", "Without his war helm and his battle gear."]}, {"id": "D13.4.25", "lines": ["Let each man pass before this office gate,", "And see his name inscribed in martial state."]}, {"id": "D13.4.26", "lines": ["Let those adorned with crown and high estate,", "By farr and majesty made known and great,"]}, {"id": "D13.4.27", "lines": ["Know this: the muster shall exempt no face", "For rank or dignity or pride of place.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.28", "lines": ["The king of kings gave ear to this command,", "And heard Babak’s decree across the land."]}, {"id": "D13.4.29", "lines": ["He smiled, and called for jowshan and for helm,", "And raised the royal standard of the realm."]}, {"id": "D13.4.30", "lines": ["With iron helmet fitted on his head,", "The Shah toward Babak’s office quickly sped."]}, {"id": "D13.4.31", "lines": ["From Roman helm the chain-mail curtain flowed,", "Held fast by clasps as toward the gate he rode."]}, {"id": "D13.4.32", "lines": ["He held an ox-head gorz, and round his waist", "Four shafts of poplar wood were firmly braced."]}, {"id": "D13.4.33", "lines": ["His bow on arm, his coiled kamand there lay", "Across the saddle, ready for the fray."]}, {"id": "D13.4.34", "lines": ["Around his loins there shone a golden band;", "He urged his charger on with tightened hand."]}, {"id": "D13.4.35", "lines": ["He pressed the charger firmly with his thighs,", "And swung the heavy gorz before all eyes."]}, {"id": "D13.4.36", "lines": ["He wheeled to left and right with practiced speed,", "Displaying to Babak both man and steed."]}, {"id": "D13.4.37", "lines": ["When Babak had inspected horse and man,", "He came before the Shah and thus began:"]}, {"id": "D13.4.38", "lines": ["“O Shah, be blessed; may wisdom feed your soul;", "May all your rule keep justice as its goal."]}, {"id": "D13.4.39", "lines": ["You have adorned the kingdom’s face with right,", "A memory that will not fade from sight."]}, {"id": "D13.4.40", "lines": ["My strict command was boldness from a slave,", "Yet justice is the road all kings must pave."]}, {"id": "D13.4.41", "lines": ["Once more toward the right now turn your horse;", "Display the skill that marks your royal force.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.42", "lines": ["Again the Shah urged on his noble steed,", "To right and left with Azargashasp’s speed."]}, {"id": "D13.4.43", "lines": ["Babak looked on amazed and often praised", "The Maker of the world with hands upraised."]}, {"id": "D13.4.44", "lines": ["One thousand was a horseman’s stated fee;", "Two thousand went to others by decree."]}, {"id": "D13.4.45", "lines": ["Four thousand marked the highest rank that day;", "The Shah received one extra dirham’s pay."]}, {"id": "D13.4.46", "lines": ["Then from the office door a herald cried:", "“Bring forth the charger bearing royal pride,"]}, {"id": "D13.4.47", "lines": ["The horseman of the world, our famous king,", "Whose word is law, whose name makes glory ring.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.48", "lines": ["Anooshirvan laughed; joy lit his face,", "And youthful Fortune walked beside his grace."]}, {"id": "D13.4.49", "lines": ["When Babak left the office of the crown,", "He came before the noble Shah bowed down."]}, {"id": "D13.4.50", "lines": ["“Great Shah,” he said, “if I was overbold,", "My heart but sought the justice I have told."]}, {"id": "D13.4.51", "lines": ["Let not the Shah take notice of my tone;", "No harshness lies in duty rightly shown."]}, {"id": "D13.4.52", "lines": ["Blessed is he whose heart seeks no offense,", "Yet will not turn from duty’s just defense.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.53", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “O sage of prudent mind,", "Hold to the just, and leave the wrong behind."]}, {"id": "D13.4.54", "lines": ["If for yourself you let the rules depart,", "You strike a wound into fair justice’s heart."]}, {"id": "D13.4.55", "lines": ["This strict review has raised you in my eyes,", "And turned my thoughts to where my duty lies."]}, {"id": "D13.4.56", "lines": ["My fear is for myself, and how I stand", "When armies meet in battle, hand to hand.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.57", "lines": ["Babak replied, “No crown or royal ring", "Has ever graced your equal as a king."]}, {"id": "D13.4.58", "lines": ["No painter, working on a palace wall,", "Has drawn such hand and rein, O king of all."]}, {"id": "D13.4.59", "lines": ["May heaven grant the measure you desire;", "And may your heart stay whole and full of fire.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.60", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan answered, “Hear me, sage:", "Our justice shall renew the ailing age."]}, {"id": "D13.4.61", "lines": ["The king must leave one memory in the land:", "A record shaped by righteousness of hand."]}, {"id": "D13.4.62", "lines": ["What need have we of hoarded wealth and gold,", "Or toil and greed that leave the spirit cold?"]}, {"id": "D13.4.63", "lines": ["In this brief world where none can ever stay,", "We need but food and drink from day to day."]}, {"id": "D13.4.64", "lines": ["I have been burdened by the world’s affairs,", "Yet kept within my breast these royal cares."]}, {"id": "D13.4.65", "lines": ["For enemies surround my royal crown,", "And Ahriman’s designs press closely down."]}, {"id": "D13.4.66", "lines": ["I thought: ‘I will call troops from every side,", "And warriors from each province far and wide."]}, {"id": "D13.4.67", "lines": ["But for this levy I will need great store,", "And treasure must be gathered more and more."]}, {"id": "D13.4.68", "lines": ["Yet if such gathering harms the poor in need,", "My heart must turn away from greedy deed.’"]}, {"id": "D13.4.69", "lines": ["So I revolved this matter in my heart,", "Until wise counsel shaped the better part."]}, {"id": "D13.4.70", "lines": ["I wrote to Pahlevans and men of war,", "To prudent Mobadan of wisdom’s lore,"]}, {"id": "D13.4.71", "lines": ["To nobles and to rulers of each land,", "And sent throughout the provinces command:"]}, {"id": "D13.4.72", "lines": ["‘All you with wisdom, teach your sons the art", "Of war, and train them well to play their part."]}, {"id": "D13.4.73", "lines": ["Send them equipped and trained to face the fight,", "To seek distinction here through martial might."]}, {"id": "D13.4.74", "lines": ["They must know hand and rein, the stirrup’s hold,", "Through hill and valley, resolute and bold."]}, {"id": "D13.4.75", "lines": ["Teach them to fight the foe in every field,", "With bow and gorz and sword and battle-shield."]}, {"id": "D13.4.76", "lines": ["A raw recruit is useless in the fight,", "Though sprung from Arash and of noble right.’”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.77", "lines": ["The muster-master left the court, and passed", "With money for the chiefs through regions vast."]}, {"id": "D13.4.78", "lines": ["The muster lasted forty days; then all", "Rode armed for war beyond the city wall."]}, {"id": "D13.4.79", "lines": ["They reached the treasury and took their due,", "While all the day rang out with gladness new."]}, {"id": "D13.4.80", "lines": ["“Now I have dressed the earth with men arrayed,", "Prepared for battle, disciplined, and paid."]}, {"id": "D13.4.81", "lines": ["In arms and troops I pass the kings of old;", "In knowledge, counsel, and the wealth I hold.”"]}, {"id": "D13.4.82", "lines": ["The high Mobad heard what the Shah had said,", "And blessings on the crown and throne he spread."]}, {"id": "D13.5.1", "lines": ["When sun brought forth its bright and shining ray,", "And circling heaven unlocked the door of day,"]}, {"id": "D13.5.2", "lines": ["When that mound of fenugreek came in sight,", "And night’s dark locks withdrew before the light,"]}, {"id": "D13.5.3", "lines": ["Glad Anooshirvan, youthful Fortune crowned,", "Sat while the wronged came flocking all around."]}, {"id": "D13.5.4", "lines": ["A herald cried, “All those who seek the right,", "Approach the Shah, whose smile is warm and bright.”"]}, {"id": "D13.5.5", "lines": ["The king said, “Seek no helper in your need", "Except the holy God, whose hand will lead."]}, {"id": "D13.5.6", "lines": ["Yazdan is Lord of all, our Guide and stay,", "Who leads through both the worlds upon His way."]}, {"id": "D13.5.7", "lines": ["Fear not the throne and crown; this court is wide,", "Its doors stand open freely on each side."]}, {"id": "D13.5.8", "lines": ["Whoever comes by day or through the night,", "Let him not fear to speak of what is right."]}, {"id": "D13.5.9", "lines": ["If we are drinking wine among our friends,", "Or with advisers weighing public ends,"]}, {"id": "D13.5.10", "lines": ["Or if at polo or the hunting-ground,", "No guard shall bar you; I must still be found."]}, {"id": "D13.5.11", "lines": ["Let no one bar your access to my face,", "Whether I sleep or wake in any place."]}, {"id": "D13.5.12", "lines": ["At work or play, let none withdraw in awe,", "Or sleep while any plea awaits the law."]}, {"id": "D13.5.13", "lines": ["My heart will brighten and rejoice that day", "When I can drive oppression’s grief away."]}, {"id": "D13.5.14", "lines": ["Let none lie down in pain through wrongs they bear", "From troops, officials, servants in my care."]}, {"id": "D13.5.15", "lines": ["For harm from all their grief will fall on me,", "And God, the Maker, every wrong will see."]}, {"id": "D13.5.16", "lines": ["However small or hidden be the case,", "I must account for it before His face."]}, {"id": "D13.5.17", "lines": ["The tolls and taxes in arrears, set down", "By Mobadan in ledgers of the crown,"]}, {"id": "D13.5.18", "lines": ["I now remit; no more is owed for these.", "Sleep free of fear of me, your hearts at ease.”"]}, {"id": "D13.5.19", "lines": ["Then from the hall applause rose toward the sun:", "“May farr crown Anooshirvan, chosen one!"]}, {"id": "D13.5.20", "lines": ["May all his years preserve his crown and throne;", "May kingship and his farr be still his own!”"]}, {"id": "D13.5.21", "lines": ["They went their ways rejoicing, glad of heart;", "The earth seemed Eram’s garden in each part."]}, {"id": "D13.5.22", "lines": ["No saddened face appeared throughout the world,", "While timely rain on field and furrow pearled."]}, {"id": "D13.5.23", "lines": ["The world resembled Paradise in bloom;", "Red tulips sprang where rain had pierced the gloom."]}, {"id": "D13.5.24", "lines": ["The dales, the plains, and orchards shone with light;", "Like moonlight shone the meadows, clear and bright."]}, {"id": "D13.5.25", "lines": ["The gardens brightened like the sun in spring;", "Then news to Rum and Hind took sudden wing:"]}, {"id": "D13.5.26", "lines": ["“In painted silk of Rum Iran is dressed;", "The Shah has made the whole earth fair and blessed."]}, {"id": "D13.5.27", "lines": ["With arms and justice he has decked the land;", "It gleams, moon-bright, beneath his guiding hand."]}, {"id": "D13.5.28", "lines": ["No one could count the troops he had arrayed", "Except the Shah, whose orders they obeyed."]}, {"id": "D13.5.29", "lines": ["They all are glad of heart and armed for fight;", "Their fame and glory fill the world with light.”"]}, {"id": "D13.5.30", "lines": ["The kings of every realm were struck with awe;", "Their judgment faltered at the might they saw."]}, {"id": "D13.5.31", "lines": ["Ambassadors from Hind and Chin appeared;", "Kings sent their blessings to the Shah they feared."]}, {"id": "D13.5.32", "lines": ["They saw that none could counter all his might,", "And hastened with their tribute, paid outright."]}, {"id": "D13.5.33", "lines": ["They all accepted service to his throne,", "And gathered slaves and treasure of their own."]}, {"id": "D13.5.34", "lines": ["With golden gorzes and with golden crowns,", "The envoys crossed the roads from many towns."]}, {"id": "D13.5.35", "lines": ["They reached the court-gate of Iran’s great lord,", "And brought the tribute their own kings had stored."]}, {"id": "D13.5.36", "lines": ["The court shone out like Paradise: it teemed", "With gold and slaves; its gate with envoys streamed."]}, {"id": "D13.5.37", "lines": ["Thus for a while the turning heavens above", "Consorted with Iran’s great king in love."]}, {"id": "D13.6.1", "lines": ["Then wise Anooshirvan formed within his mind", "A plan to leave his settled court behind."]}, {"id": "D13.6.2", "lines": ["He meant to journey outward for a while,", "And circle all the world in royal style."]}, {"id": "D13.6.3", "lines": ["He meant to bring all hidden things to light,", "And judge the realm with open royal sight."]}, {"id": "D13.6.4", "lines": ["With tabiras he marched the army out;", "The sun and moon looked on the march in doubt."]}, {"id": "D13.6.5", "lines": ["With troops and jewels, gold and silver’s glow,", "And golden girdles flashing row on row,"]}, {"id": "D13.6.6", "lines": ["Their golden shields so blazed that mines no more", "Held any gold, nor seas their pearly store."]}, {"id": "D13.6.7", "lines": ["He marched his troops across Khorasan’s plain,", "As Sasan’s custom bade, he led his train."]}, {"id": "D13.6.8", "lines": ["Wherever settlements rose up in sight,", "He pitched his camp beyond their fields at night."]}, {"id": "D13.6.9", "lines": ["When karnays blared, a herald went before,", "And cried aloud beside the camp’s wide door:"]}, {"id": "D13.6.10", "lines": ["“You subjects living under our command,", "Has harm from us befallen in this land?"]}, {"id": "D13.6.11", "lines": ["Sleep not despairing of the Shah’s redress;", "Let not your souls grow faint beneath distress.”"]}, {"id": "D13.6.12", "lines": ["Thus to Gorgan he led the royal train,", "With crown and throne and chiefs of high domain."]}, {"id": "D13.6.13", "lines": ["A Shah needs noble birth and judgment sound;", "In him must worth and justice both be found."]}, {"id": "D13.6.14", "lines": ["When nightingales had filled the world with song,", "To Sari and to Amol moved the throng."]}, {"id": "D13.6.15", "lines": ["There hills and plains were forest everywhere;", "The Shah grew deep in thought at sights so fair."]}, {"id": "D13.6.16", "lines": ["He left the plain and climbed beneath the sun,", "Upon an Arab steed, whose coat was dun."]}, {"id": "D13.6.17", "lines": ["He gazed on mountain, forest, streams that shone,", "On rose and hyacinth, and game full-grown."]}, {"id": "D13.6.18", "lines": ["He said, “O Judge almighty, Lord of all,", "World-conqueror, You hear Your creatures call,"]}, {"id": "D13.6.19", "lines": ["You made the sun and moon, and You display", "The guidance that reveals the righteous way."]}, {"id": "D13.6.20", "lines": ["You made the world so fair to mortal eyes", "That earth can scarcely be told from the skies."]}, {"id": "D13.6.21", "lines": ["Whoever worships any name but You", "Will cast his soul to Hell, as sinners do."]}, {"id": "D13.6.22", "lines": ["Here Fereydoon, who worshipped You, found rest,", "And built his dwelling in this forest’s breast.”"]}, {"id": "D13.6.23", "lines": ["One said, “O righteous king and Judge of earth,", "This place would overflow with joy and mirth"]}, {"id": "D13.6.24", "lines": ["But for the Turks’ road that runs so near;", "No heart among us would be drained by fear."]}, {"id": "D13.6.25", "lines": ["Such wealth and glory fill this blessed place,", "Yet none dare lift their heads or show their face."]}, {"id": "D13.6.26", "lines": ["Murder and sack and raiding never cease;", "They strip this land of wealth and folk and peace."]}, {"id": "D13.6.27", "lines": ["Now scarcely any living thing remains,", "No cattle, birds, or people on these plains."]}, {"id": "D13.6.28", "lines": ["This is the single road between the lands,", "And loss to Iran follows from those bands."]}, {"id": "D13.6.29", "lines": ["Much toil and strife afflicted former days,", "Though through Khwarazm the Turks then chose their ways."]}, {"id": "D13.6.30", "lines": ["No merchant, noble, or brave man of worth", "Can raise his head in safety on this earth."]}, {"id": "D13.6.31", "lines": ["Now that your army marches at our side,", "Avert this evil; bar the raiders’ stride."]}, {"id": "D13.6.32", "lines": ["Your treasures will increase, not shrink away;", "Now is the hour to serve us well today.”"]}, {"id": "D13.6.33", "lines": ["The Shah, when he had heard the suppliant speak,", "Let tears fall freely down his royal cheek."]}, {"id": "D13.6.34", "lines": ["He turned then to his minister and said,", "“A grievous task now weighs upon my head."]}, {"id": "D13.6.35", "lines": ["No longer may we feast or dwell in ease,", "Nor wear the crown merely ourselves to please."]}, {"id": "D13.6.36", "lines": ["God will not bless the wrong if we are glad,", "While nobles grieve and all the land is sad."]}, {"id": "D13.6.37", "lines": ["These mountain plains, so pleasing to our sight,", "Are fit for gardens, palaces of light."]}, {"id": "D13.6.38", "lines": ["With cattle, game, and running streams, the whole", "Expanse brings fresh delight to every soul."]}, {"id": "D13.6.39", "lines": ["We must not let the Turks lay waste this land,", "Nor leave Iran despoiled beneath their hand."]}, {"id": "D13.6.40", "lines": ["My kingship, wisdom, judgment all maintain", "That manly courage guard this stricken plain."]}, {"id": "D13.6.41", "lines": ["Men will not bless our name or royal head,", "While Iran lies before them wrecked and dead.”"]}, {"id": "D13.6.42", "lines": ["He bade his minister, “To court and hall", "From Hind and Rum bring master builders all."]}, {"id": "D13.6.43", "lines": ["From every province seek farsighted men,", "The finest craftsmen skilled with tool and pen."]}, {"id": "D13.6.44", "lines": ["Build me a lofty wall beside the sea,", "Its broad foundations in the depths must be."]}, {"id": "D13.6.45", "lines": ["Build it of stone and mortar, firmly bound,", "Ten kamand-lengths in height above the ground."]}, {"id": "D13.6.46", "lines": ["From water’s depths the mighty wall shall rise,", "Up toward the sun that lights the lofty skies."]}, {"id": "D13.6.47", "lines": ["By such a barrier we shall guard the way,", "And keep all hostile raiding bands at bay."]}, {"id": "D13.6.48", "lines": ["Press no man to the work, throw wide our store,", "And pay the workers all they ask you for."]}, {"id": "D13.6.49", "lines": ["Let cultivator, lord, and man of birth", "Be spared all hurt from this work on the earth.”"]}, {"id": "D13.6.50", "lines": ["An aged Mobad he appointed guide,", "And walled the desert wholly off outside."]}, {"id": "D13.6.51", "lines": ["They set within the wall an iron gate,", "And every flock grew safe from wolfish fate."]}, {"id": "D13.6.52", "lines": ["He posted watchmen all the border round,", "Then led his troops beyond the guarded ground."]}, {"id": "D13.7.1", "lines": ["He left the sea for where Alanons dwell,", "And saw how ruin on their marches fell."]}, {"id": "D13.7.2", "lines": ["He told his chiefs: “This brings our crown to shame,", "That Iran’s borderlands should lie in flame."]}, {"id": "D13.7.3", "lines": ["We must not let our enemies declare", "That Iranian lands lie stripped and bare.”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.4", "lines": ["He chose from all the troops an envoy wise,", "A man of fitting speech and watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "D13.7.5", "lines": ["He said, “Depart from here when dawn is bright,", "And speak these words to border-lords of might:"]}, {"id": "D13.7.6", "lines": ["‘From my own watchers I have clearly heard", "Your public deeds and every private word."]}, {"id": "D13.7.7", "lines": ["You boast, “Why fear great Anooshirvan’s hand?", "Iran is but a speck beside our land.”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.8", "lines": ["Now we have reached your land with all our force,", "And pitched our camp along the mountain course."]}, {"id": "D13.7.9", "lines": ["Your plains are broad, your mountains steep and high,", "Your men bear gorz and bow beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D13.7.10", "lines": ["Your gorges serve as traps to snare the foe;", "Your mountain, field, and fell you fully know."]}, {"id": "D13.7.11", "lines": ["We, chiefs and soldiers all, would challenge you,", "Though strangers here and foreign to your view.’”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.12", "lines": ["The envoy went and gave the words entire,", "As ordered by Iran’s world-ruling sire."]}, {"id": "D13.7.13", "lines": ["Alanons gathered, startled with alarm;", "Great men and sages met to weigh the harm."]}, {"id": "D13.7.14", "lines": ["Their troops made raiding their accustomed trade;", "By noble conduct few of them were swayed."]}, {"id": "D13.7.15", "lines": ["Iran had long stood fearful of their raids,", "While folk lost robes and wealth beneath their blades."]}, {"id": "D13.7.16", "lines": ["Men, women, babes, and cattle fled their homes,", "And sought the plains through dust where terror roams."]}, {"id": "D13.7.17", "lines": ["The envoy made the royal message plain,", "The words of Iran’s world-commanding reign."]}, {"id": "D13.7.18", "lines": ["The chieftains’ faces darkened at his word,", "And Anooshirvan’s command their spirits stirred."]}, {"id": "D13.7.19", "lines": ["The great men of that realm made haste to greet", "The Shah, and laid their tribute at his feet,"]}, {"id": "D13.7.20", "lines": ["With slaves and garments, gold and silver bright,", "And many noble steeds of proven might."]}, {"id": "D13.7.21", "lines": ["The aged men of eloquence and worth,", "And wisdom’s seekers came from all the earth."]}, {"id": "D13.7.22", "lines": ["They came before the tented royal place,", "Bewailing former deeds with humbled face."]}, {"id": "D13.7.23", "lines": ["When they had reached the Shah with gifts in hand,", "They cried and rolled in dust upon the land."]}, {"id": "D13.7.24", "lines": ["Their eyes were filled with tears, their hearts with blood;", "Their shame rose round them like a bitter flood."]}, {"id": "D13.7.25", "lines": ["The warrior led by wisdom in each deed", "Will have no shame, nor any cause to plead."]}, {"id": "D13.7.26", "lines": ["The prudent Shah received them with good will,", "And pardoned every former wrong and ill."]}, {"id": "D13.7.27", "lines": ["He ordered that throughout the barren ground,", "Where lions, leopards, savage beasts were found,"]}, {"id": "D13.7.28", "lines": ["They build a city suited for the field,", "With room to sow and reap abundant yield."]}, {"id": "D13.7.29", "lines": ["Around its bounds they were to raise a wall,", "So enemies could bring no harm at all."]}, {"id": "D13.7.30", "lines": ["Alanons bowed and answered, “We obey;", "As earringed slaves, we follow all you say."]}, {"id": "D13.7.31", "lines": ["As our Shah bids, we shall build walls around,", "And raise a noble city from the ground.”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.32", "lines": ["The Shah then marched to Hindustan and stayed;", "At his command, all people came arrayed."]}, {"id": "D13.7.33", "lines": ["They came in hope their lives might yet be spared,", "And brought the gifts their anxious hands prepared."]}, {"id": "D13.7.34", "lines": ["For two farsangs from India’s river lay", "The gifts: coins, steeds, and elephants’ array."]}, {"id": "D13.7.35", "lines": ["The great men came with hearts both firm and true,", "And stood before the Shah for his review."]}, {"id": "D13.7.36", "lines": ["He questioned each with kindness, and assigned", "To each the rank that his true worth defined."]}, {"id": "D13.7.37", "lines": ["Then glad at heart, the Shah turned back that day;", "His troops and elephants filled all the way."]}, {"id": "D13.7.38", "lines": ["He traveled onward; then the tidings came:", "“The Baluchis have wrapped the world in flame."]}, {"id": "D13.7.39", "lines": ["Through slaughter, pillage, harrying, and raid,", "The earth lies overwhelmed beneath the blade."]}, {"id": "D13.7.40", "lines": ["Yet greater ruin comes from Gilan’s shore,", "Where curses rise and blessings bloom no more.”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.41", "lines": ["The Shah’s heart filled with sorrow and dismay,", "And grief dissolved the gladness of the day."]}, {"id": "D13.7.42", "lines": ["He told Iran’s men, “Alan, Hind, and all", "Have yielded like soft silk before our call."]}, {"id": "D13.7.43", "lines": ["Yet in our own land we cannot prevail;", "We hunt for lions, yet before sheep quail.”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.44", "lines": ["One said, “No garden has a rose alone", "Without its thorn beside it fully grown."]}, {"id": "D13.7.45", "lines": ["These marches too are troublesome to hold,", "And drain the treasury of silver, gold."]}, {"id": "D13.7.46", "lines": ["Against Baluchistan, Ardeshir tried,", "With veterans and captains at his side."]}, {"id": "D13.7.47", "lines": ["But stratagems and feints and battle failed;", "His arms and labors nothing there availed."]}, {"id": "D13.7.48", "lines": ["Though that attempt had ended very ill,", "He kept its bitter failure hidden still.”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.49", "lines": ["The noble’s words inflamed the Shah that day;", "Against the Baluch he led his array."]}, {"id": "D13.7.50", "lines": ["When he drew near those towering mountain walls,", "He ringed their heights with camps and sentry calls."]}, {"id": "D13.7.51", "lines": ["His army closed the mountains all around,", "And barred each passage over stony ground."]}, {"id": "D13.7.52", "lines": ["They barred the path to wind and ants alike;", "No hidden road remained for flight or strike."]}, {"id": "D13.7.53", "lines": ["Like ants and locusts, soldiers filled the place,", "From mountain skirts to sandy desert space."]}, {"id": "D13.7.54", "lines": ["A herald moved throughout the camp and cried,", "From caves and hills and plains on every side:"]}, {"id": "D13.7.55", "lines": ["“Spare neither children found within their bounds,", "Nor fighting men you meet upon your rounds."]}, {"id": "D13.7.56", "lines": ["Whether they come in numbers great or small,", "Let not a single one escape at all.”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.57", "lines": ["The troops, aware how fierce the Shah had grown,", "Sealed every outlet with ranks of their own."]}, {"id": "D13.7.58", "lines": ["Not one among the Baluch stayed alive;", "No woman, child, or warrior could survive."]}, {"id": "D13.7.59", "lines": ["All perished there beneath the cutting steel;", "Their evil ended under Fortune’s wheel."]}, {"id": "D13.7.60", "lines": ["The world found peace when none remained to raid;", "No Baluchi lived to lift another blade."]}, {"id": "D13.7.61", "lines": ["Upon their mountains, so it came to pass,", "The herds thereafter wandered through the grass."]}, {"id": "D13.7.62", "lines": ["They roamed at will, secure from wolf and ill;", "No shepherd watched the sheep on slope or hill."]}, {"id": "D13.7.63", "lines": ["The folk around forgot their former pain,", "And made their homes on mountain, vale, and plain."]}, {"id": "D13.7.64", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan marched toward Gilan’s side,", "Where trouble burned in Dilam far and wide."]}, {"id": "D13.7.65", "lines": ["The army stretched from sea to mountain height;", "Flags filled the air and troops consumed the sight."]}, {"id": "D13.7.66", "lines": ["The army coiled around the land entire,", "And sun and moon seemed dimmed by warlike fire."]}, {"id": "D13.7.67", "lines": ["The Shah declared, “Among both small and great,", "Let wolf and lion meet one common fate.”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.68", "lines": ["So fierce the slaughter spread through Gilan’s land,", "That blood ran red across the rock and sand."]}, {"id": "D13.7.69", "lines": ["Through killing, pillage, burning, grief, and woe,", "Both men and women raised their cries below."]}, {"id": "D13.7.70", "lines": ["The slain lay heaped in piles on every side;", "Their brains besmeared the grass, the sand was dyed."]}, {"id": "D13.7.71", "lines": ["The warriors, prudent men of rank and weight,", "Who still remained in Gilan, feared their fate."]}, {"id": "D13.7.72", "lines": ["They bound their hands and came in grief and fear,", "With wives and children weeping, drawing near."]}, {"id": "D13.7.73", "lines": ["Their children went before; behind them pressed", "The women, dust on each torn-open breast."]}, {"id": "D13.7.74", "lines": ["They gathered at the monarch’s court in bands,", "With wounded bodies and with fettered hands."]}, {"id": "D13.7.75", "lines": ["They said, “We have turned back from evil ways;", "Let now the Shah withdraw his wrathful gaze."]}, {"id": "D13.7.76", "lines": ["If he remains enraged at Gilan’s name,", "We will behead ourselves to end our shame."]}, {"id": "D13.7.77", "lines": ["Perhaps the Shah will soften at the sight,", "When severed heads lie piled before his might.”"]}, {"id": "D13.7.78", "lines": ["When such a cry went up before the crown,", "The Shah gave heed and set his anger down."]}, {"id": "D13.7.79", "lines": ["He pardoned them, but took, to check their ill,", "Two hundred hostages to bind their will."]}, {"id": "D13.7.80", "lines": ["From both Gilan and Dilam came this band;", "He left a Pahlevan, then quit the land."]}, {"id": "D13.8.1", "lines": ["From Gilan then to Madain he made way,", "With train past numbering in vast array."]}, {"id": "D13.8.2", "lines": ["As he advanced, before him rose to sight", "A boundless force of warriors armed for fight."]}, {"id": "D13.8.3", "lines": ["One horseman broke from those great ranks to fly", "Swift through the dust, and bold of speech and eye;"]}, {"id": "D13.8.4", "lines": ["He left his charger, bowed, and then he said,", "“Behold Monzer, the Arab chief ahead.”"]}, {"id": "D13.8.5", "lines": ["When Monzer came before the Shah’s own face,", "The chiefs made way and left him ample space."]}, {"id": "D13.8.6", "lines": ["The Shah received him warmly at his seat,", "And joy shone in his face when they did meet."]}, {"id": "D13.8.7", "lines": ["That veteran loosed his tongue; of Rum he spoke,", "Of Caesar’s pride, and of the desert folk."]}, {"id": "D13.8.8", "lines": ["He said, “If you are Shah of Iran’s land,", "The shield and backbone of its fighting band,"]}, {"id": "D13.8.9", "lines": ["Why do the Romans rule with such display,", "And strut across the Arab horsemen’s way?"]}, {"id": "D13.8.10", "lines": ["If you should sit upon the Roman throne,", "Then pride and high command would be your own."]}, {"id": "D13.8.11", "lines": ["Now if the noble Shah will give consent,", "No more shall we come begging, bowed and spent."]}, {"id": "D13.8.12", "lines": ["When desert horsemen meet Rum’s troops in fight,", "Their jowshans will not stand against our might.”"]}, {"id": "D13.8.13", "lines": ["The Shah grew angry at proud Caesar’s claim,", "Whose lifted crown had put Monzer to shame."]}, {"id": "D13.8.14", "lines": ["Among his troops he chose a speaker skilled,", "With Caesar’s tongue and prudent counsel filled."]}, {"id": "D13.8.15", "lines": ["He said, “Go now to Rum; do not delay,", "Or take your ease in settled towns by day."]}, {"id": "D13.8.16", "lines": ["Say this to Caesar: ‘If your judgment strays,", "Your head must bear the cost of foolish ways."]}, {"id": "D13.8.17", "lines": ["The lion hunting Gur-e-Khar will scour", "Each salt-marsh waste, and none can curb his power."]}, {"id": "D13.8.18", "lines": ["Justice from Monzer should suffice for you;", "His lofty rank commands the honor due."]}, {"id": "D13.8.19", "lines": ["Know left from right, and keep to your own bound;", "Then claim no more than justice grants your ground."]}, {"id": "D13.8.20", "lines": ["Since I allot the realms that lie below,", "And stand supreme where earthly monarchs go,"]}, {"id": "D13.8.21", "lines": ["My conduct shall be worthy of my name;", "I will not let a wind touch Monzer’s fame."]}, {"id": "D13.8.22", "lines": ["Since you have stretched your hand across the sand,", "Take careful thought before you test my hand."]}, {"id": "D13.8.23", "lines": ["That sovereignty is mine, and mine alone,", "From Bull to Pisces, earth and heaven, my own."]}, {"id": "D13.8.24", "lines": ["If I should send my troops to Rum’s own door,", "Your steel will turn to wax upon your floor.’”"]}, {"id": "D13.8.25", "lines": ["The envoy left the court at his command,", "And sped like torrents toward the Roman land."]}, {"id": "D13.8.26", "lines": ["He gave to Caesar all the Shah had said,", "But that base ruler turned from right instead."]}, {"id": "D13.8.27", "lines": ["He turned away from justice and replied", "With base evasions born of Roman pride."]}, {"id": "D13.8.28", "lines": ["Imagining no fall from power near,", "He answered thus in scorn and without fear:"]}, {"id": "D13.8.29", "lines": ["“As for that fool Monzer, weigh what he brays;", "His speech is little more than desert haze."]}, {"id": "D13.8.30", "lines": ["If he complains in wantonness and wrong,", "Exaggerating injuries too long,"]}, {"id": "D13.8.31", "lines": ["Or if one spearman in the field complain,", "I will make every height a level plain."]}, {"id": "D13.8.32", "lines": ["The waterless desert I shall make a sea;", "Let every Arab learn to answer me.”"]}, {"id": "D13.8.33", "lines": ["The envoy heard, then hurried back like dust,", "And told the Shah of Caesar’s scorn unjust."]}, {"id": "D13.8.34", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan rose in wrath and said,", "“No wisdom rules the Roman Caesar’s head."]}, {"id": "D13.8.35", "lines": ["I will show him whose arm maintains command,", "Who conquers, fights, and seals pacts in the land."]}, {"id": "D13.8.36", "lines": ["His arrogance, his pillage, and his pride,", "His raids and ravages shall be cast aside."]}, {"id": "D13.8.37", "lines": ["He shall repent more dearly than the drunk", "Who thrusts both hands in fire when night has sunk.”"]}, {"id": "D13.8.38", "lines": ["He had the karnays sound their summons loud,", "And troops came thronging in, crowd after crowd."]}, {"id": "D13.8.39", "lines": ["The tymbals thundered at the palace gate;", "Earth darkened, air turned black beneath their weight."]}, {"id": "D13.8.40", "lines": ["He chose out thirty thousand men to ride,", "All swordsmen, picked from troops on every side."]}, {"id": "D13.8.41", "lines": ["He gave Monzer command of that array,", "And spoke to him before he marched away:"]}, {"id": "D13.8.42", "lines": ["“Lead from the desert all your spearmen now,", "And march on Rum’s frontier with stern-set brow."]}, {"id": "D13.8.43", "lines": ["Set Rum’s frontier and country all aflame;", "Let Caesar learn the terror of my name."]}, {"id": "D13.8.44", "lines": ["I am your Shah, yet in this feud I stand", "As your supporter, strengthening your hand."]}, {"id": "D13.8.45", "lines": ["I count Rum’s legions but a pinch of dust;", "My sword shall answer Caesar as it must."]}, {"id": "D13.8.46", "lines": ["A smooth-tongued envoy shall convey my word,", "And bear a letter, so my will is heard."]}, {"id": "D13.8.47", "lines": ["Perhaps this course will keep you free from harm;", "Against Rum’s Caesar, trust my shielding arm.”"]}, {"id": "D13.9.1", "lines": ["The Shah then called a scribe who served at court,", "And bade him write to Caesar this report:"]}, {"id": "D13.9.2", "lines": ["“From Anooshirvan, Shah of glorious birth,", "Kay Qobad’s reviver, conqueror of earth,"]}, {"id": "D13.9.3", "lines": ["To Caesar, Rum’s exalted sovereign lord,", "The keeper of its marches, watch and ward.”"]}, {"id": "D13.9.4", "lines": ["He praised Yazdan, from whom all greatness came,", "And sought from Him alone his lofty name."]}, {"id": "D13.9.5", "lines": ["“He guides the sun and moon through circling height,", "The source of victory and conquering might."]}, {"id": "D13.9.6", "lines": ["Who has escaped the heavens’ turning flight,", "By seeking war, or love, or what is right?"]}, {"id": "D13.9.7", "lines": ["Though you are Caesar, lord of Rum’s command,", "Do not contend with those of Monzer’s band."]}, {"id": "D13.9.8", "lines": ["If you take sheep from out the wolf’s own claw,", "You know that toil will follow such a law."]}, {"id": "D13.9.9", "lines": ["If you send troops against Monzer’s domain,", "No army, throne, or treasure shall remain."]}, {"id": "D13.9.10", "lines": ["My sword shall punish any man who dares", "Defy his lord with proud, insolent airs."]}, {"id": "D13.9.11", "lines": ["Step not a single cubit past your bound,", "To keep our covenant both safe and sound."]}, {"id": "D13.9.12", "lines": ["But if you spurn these words that I have said,", "Then I shall trample throne and royal head."]}, {"id": "D13.9.13", "lines": ["The lord of crown and might greets all who keep", "The peace, nor wake the strife that lies asleep.”"]}, {"id": "D13.9.14", "lines": ["They stamped the letter with the royal seal,", "To make the Shah’s command both firm and real."]}, {"id": "D13.9.15", "lines": ["Then from the court they picked a rider bold,", "One fit to bear the warning, stern and cold:"]}, {"id": "D13.9.16", "lines": ["Persuasive, valiant, shrewd in speech and art,", "To stand before great Caesar, stout of heart."]}, {"id": "D13.10.1", "lines": ["The envoy took the royal letter sealed,", "And came to Caesar’s court, his charge revealed."]}, {"id": "D13.10.2", "lines": ["He greeted him and gave the Shah’s own word,", "And told him all the message he had heard."]}, {"id": "D13.10.3", "lines": ["When Caesar read the royal letter through,", "He writhed in anger at the threats he knew."]}, {"id": "D13.10.4", "lines": ["His brow grew wrinkled and his face turned pale,", "At every threat contained within the tale."]}, {"id": "D13.10.5", "lines": ["He called a scribe to take down his reply,", "With pride and anger blazing in his eye."]}, {"id": "D13.10.6", "lines": ["With ink as black as pitch, the scribe began", "By praising God, who rules the life of man:"]}, {"id": "D13.10.7", "lines": ["“The Artist of the heavens, Lord of all,", "The source of war and peace and friendship’s call,"]}, {"id": "D13.10.8", "lines": ["Crowns one a king and grants him high command,", "While one stands girt for service at his hand."]}, {"id": "D13.10.9", "lines": ["Though turning heaven knelt at your behest,", "And Jupiter your mastery confessed,"]}, {"id": "D13.10.10", "lines": ["Search every record: never has Rum’s son", "Paid tribute to the Kayan kings, not one."]}, {"id": "D13.10.11", "lines": ["Though you are king, I am no less than you;", "I too have crown and troops to serve me true."]}, {"id": "D13.10.12", "lines": ["Why should I bear such insults out of fear", "Of tuskers, tabiras that shake the ear?"]}, {"id": "D13.10.13", "lines": ["I now demand the tribute that you owe;", "Who dares confront Rum’s legions, blow for blow?"]}, {"id": "D13.10.14", "lines": ["You know Iskandar’s deeds across your land;", "That noble king was ours, with sword in hand."]}, {"id": "D13.10.15", "lines": ["Iskandar’s sword is not concealed from sight;", "Why choose this quarrel and forsake the right?"]}, {"id": "D13.10.16", "lines": ["The desert horsemen, armed with spear and bow,", "Have crossed our bounds and laid our holdings low."]}, {"id": "D13.10.17", "lines": ["No more will we endure their lawless raid;", "Our legions shall repay them blade for blade."]}, {"id": "D13.10.18", "lines": ["Anooshirvan did not create the sun,", "Nor seize heaven’s key as though the world were won."]}, {"id": "D13.10.19", "lines": ["He cannot claim that only he is king,", "Or that his will alone directs each thing.”"]}, {"id": "D13.10.20", "lines": ["He gave no spoken answer to be heard,", "Nor spoke of Kisra with a bitter word."]}, {"id": "D13.10.21", "lines": ["Then, as he sealed the letter, Caesar said,", "“May Christ and Cross go with you where you tread.”"]}, {"id": "D13.10.22", "lines": ["The envoy held his tongue and made no claim,", "But read with grief the words of scorn and blame."]}, {"id": "D13.10.23", "lines": ["In grief he left and hurried back like dust,", "To bear the words of Caesar’s scorn unjust."]}, {"id": "D13.10.24", "lines": ["He reached the Shah and told him everything,", "All Caesar purposed against Iran’s king."]}, {"id": "D13.11.1", "lines": ["The king, when he had read the letter through,", "Burned with fierce rage at all proud Caesar knew."]}, {"id": "D13.11.2", "lines": ["He called the Mobadan and chiefs of might,", "And weighed the letter’s words by counsel’s light."]}, {"id": "D13.11.3", "lines": ["For three full days he sat with chiefs of war,", "And battle-breaking Pahlevans of yore."]}, {"id": "D13.11.4", "lines": ["The fourth day saw his firm resolve made plain:", "To lead his troops against the Roman reign."]}, {"id": "D13.11.5", "lines": ["At court-gate karnays blared with brazen sound,", "And tabiras and cymbals shook the ground."]}, {"id": "D13.11.6", "lines": ["He paused no more, but righteous battle sought,", "And marshaled all his troops as prudence taught."]}, {"id": "D13.11.7", "lines": ["He called on God, the Giver of all good;", "A cloud of dust rose where the army stood."]}, {"id": "D13.11.8", "lines": ["The sky’s own face grew black beneath its pall,", "As though a sea of pitch had drowned it all."]}, {"id": "D13.11.9", "lines": ["He clad the earth in horseshoes, trail on trail,", "And crimson banners spread a silken veil."]}, {"id": "D13.11.10", "lines": ["No room was left on earth for gnat or fly,", "Nor wind could find a passage through the sky."]}, {"id": "D13.11.11", "lines": ["The horsemen’s clamor, elephants’ dust-clouds vast,", "Made earth a Nile through which the army passed."]}, {"id": "D13.11.12", "lines": ["The great Shah marched with Kaveh’s flag and crown,", "In golden boots that flashed with bright renown."]}, {"id": "D13.11.13", "lines": ["Their clamor carried two farsangs ahead;", "The ranks by tabiras and tuskers led."]}, {"id": "D13.11.14", "lines": ["Toward Azar Abadagan he led the way,", "With nobles front and rear in close array."]}, {"id": "D13.11.15", "lines": ["When he beheld Azargashasp’s far light,", "He left his horse and bowed before the sight."]}, {"id": "D13.11.16", "lines": ["He asked his Mobad for the barsom boughs,", "And bathed his cheeks in tears and holy vows."]}, {"id": "D13.11.17", "lines": ["He entered praying through the fire-temple door,", "While a gold-inlaid throne stood on the floor."]}, {"id": "D13.11.18", "lines": ["They spread the Zand-Avesta wide to read,", "And Mobadan intoned its holy creed."]}, {"id": "D13.11.19", "lines": ["The rites were done; the Mobadan and all", "The chiefs and nobles bowed before the call."]}, {"id": "D13.11.20", "lines": ["They tore their robes and cast down jewels rare,", "And murmured blessings in a voice of prayer."]}, {"id": "D13.11.21", "lines": ["The Shah approached, and praised with humbled brow", "The Maker, to whom earth and heaven bow."]}, {"id": "D13.11.22", "lines": ["He asked for victory, with God his guide,", "Upon the path where justice must abide."]}, {"id": "D13.11.23", "lines": ["He gave the attendants gifts with open hands,", "And fed the poor throughout the sacred lands."]}, {"id": "D13.11.24", "lines": ["He pitched his tent before the temple bright,", "His troops arrayed in order left and right."]}, {"id": "D13.11.25", "lines": ["He called a prudent scribe and spoke at length,", "Dictating words of counsel, guard, and strength."]}, {"id": "D13.11.26", "lines": ["He bade him write to each Iranian chief", "Along the border, words both grave and brief:"]}, {"id": "D13.11.27", "lines": ["“Fear God, keep watch, and guard the world from foes;", "Let vigilance arise where danger grows."]}, {"id": "D13.11.28", "lines": ["You lords and Pahlevans, keep justice clear;", "Protect the lowly; hold their safety dear."]}, {"id": "D13.11.29", "lines": ["Keep troops enough to break the hostile hand,", "And hold firm guard across the troubled land."]}, {"id": "D13.11.30", "lines": ["While my own standard is beyond your sight,", "Let no man sleep secure through careless night.”"]}, {"id": "D13.11.31", "lines": ["When from the fire-temple he marched, Rum-bound,", "His fame through every field and home would sound."]}, {"id": "D13.11.32", "lines": ["Those who obeyed came forth along the way;", "The others fled the region in dismay."]}, {"id": "D13.11.33", "lines": ["They came with gifts and offerings rich and rare,", "Wherever he encamped, from everywhere."]}, {"id": "D13.11.34", "lines": ["From every side came messages of praise,", "Wherever he led on his army’s ways."]}, {"id": "D13.11.35", "lines": ["He feasted and he hunted every day,", "Yet never left the war’s appointed way."]}, {"id": "D13.11.36", "lines": ["Each night a thousand chiefs would come and dine,", "To banquet with the king in royal line."]}, {"id": "D13.11.37", "lines": ["When he drew near the far lands, he prepared", "For war and paid the troops the sums declared."]}, {"id": "D13.11.38", "lines": ["Shirviyeh, Bahram’s son, led all the force,", "In counsel firm and steady on his course."]}, {"id": "D13.11.39", "lines": ["The left wing of his army he gave in trust", "To Farhad, battle-wise and sternly just."]}, {"id": "D13.11.40", "lines": ["Ostad Pirooz commanded on the right,", "And Goshasb kept the baggage safe from fight."]}, {"id": "D13.11.41", "lines": ["Mehran was set to hold the center’s core,", "His heart steadfast amid the battle’s roar."]}, {"id": "D13.11.42", "lines": ["He gave the forward watch to Kharrad’s son,", "Wise Hormizd, trusted when the day was done."]}, {"id": "D13.11.43", "lines": ["His watchers ranged abroad on every hand,", "So nothing hid throughout the hostile land."]}, {"id": "D13.11.44", "lines": ["The Shah then called his veterans to his side,", "And spoke at length with counsel as their guide:"]}, {"id": "D13.11.45", "lines": ["“You men of rank, you vast and warlike band,", "Let none neglect the post where he must stand."]}, {"id": "D13.11.46", "lines": ["If one should quit his ground without my leave,", "No plea or false excuse shall gain reprieve."]}, {"id": "D13.11.47", "lines": ["Who harms the poor or robs a wealthy man", "Shall answer for his vile and wicked plan."]}, {"id": "D13.11.48", "lines": ["Who harms a fruiting tree, or does a wrong,", "Or tramples fields where tender crops belong,"]}, {"id": "D13.11.49", "lines": ["Or leaves his post to rush into the fray", "Before the troops are drawn up in array,"]}, {"id": "D13.11.50", "lines": ["I swear by God, who gave me crown and might,", "Who rules Mars, Saturn, and the sun’s own light,"]}, {"id": "D13.11.51", "lines": ["My sword shall cleave him, though, as does a star,", "He hides in clouds and flees from judgment far."]}, {"id": "D13.11.52", "lines": ["I ride as scout before the army’s face,", "The central stay and guard in every place."]}, {"id": "D13.11.53", "lines": ["I guard the elephants, the troops, the train,", "Now left, now right, across the warlike plain."]}, {"id": "D13.11.54", "lines": ["On land or sea, wherever war may keep", "My army, I shall seek no rest or sleep.”"]}, {"id": "D13.11.55", "lines": ["A herald, Shirzad, took the royal word,", "And through the camp his urgent message stirred."]}, {"id": "D13.11.56", "lines": ["He rode by every tent and warder’s stand,", "And cried the Shah’s stern order through the land:"]}, {"id": "D13.11.57", "lines": ["“O troops beyond all count, attend this call:", "The watchful Shah demands right deeds from all."]}, {"id": "D13.11.58", "lines": ["Who walks upon this darkened earth below", "And lets no love or righteous wisdom show,"]}, {"id": "D13.11.59", "lines": ["His blood shall be poured out upon the ground;", "God’s grace and mercy will not wrap him round.”"]}, {"id": "D13.11.60", "lines": ["No herald’s cry alone could satisfy", "The Shah, who watched by night and open sky."]}, {"id": "D13.11.61", "lines": ["At every hour he made his rounds, alert", "To good and ill alike, to wrong and hurt."]}, {"id": "D13.11.62", "lines": ["He gathered tidings from affairs of state,", "And overlooked no matter, small or great."]}, {"id": "D13.11.63", "lines": ["When any soldier died upon the way,", "He built a burial chamber where he lay."]}, {"id": "D13.11.64", "lines": ["The dead man’s goods—his silver and his gold,", "His bow, his helm, kamand, belt, arms of old—"]}, {"id": "D13.11.65", "lines": ["Were buried, whether common, fine, or plain;", "His property beside him would remain."]}, {"id": "D13.11.66", "lines": ["The world was lost in wonder at the height", "Of Anooshirvan’s majesty and might."]}, {"id": "D13.11.67", "lines": ["Wherever he engaged his foes in fight,", "He showed sound counsel, caution, and foresight."]}, {"id": "D13.11.68", "lines": ["He called a trusty envoy to his side,", "Who went where foes prepared themselves in pride."]}, {"id": "D13.11.69", "lines": ["If they accepted justice and its way,", "The wise Shah spared them and forbore the fray."]}, {"id": "D13.11.70", "lines": ["But if they fought, the Shah, nahang in wrath,", "Went out with guile and hewed through them a path."]}, {"id": "D13.11.71", "lines": ["He spoiled their fields and crops with sword and flame,", "And joined stern justice to his royal name."]}, {"id": "D13.11.72", "lines": ["The Shah’s conduct shone like the sun above,", "Whose rays reach wet and dry with equal love."]}, {"id": "D13.11.73", "lines": ["It hides its radiance from no earthly field,", "And makes the veiling clouds of heaven yield."]}, {"id": "D13.11.74", "lines": ["Its gifts are soil and sand, and scent and hue,", "The gleaming pearl, the running waters too."]}, {"id": "D13.11.75", "lines": ["Its radiance and height it owes to none;", "It gives and cheers the heart, the bounteous sun."]}, {"id": "D13.11.76", "lines": ["Through justice, prudence, farr, and his command,", "The king of kings, by gorz, subdued each land."]}, {"id": "D13.11.77", "lines": ["Both war and bounty seemed mere sport to him;", "Through these his greatness rose and did not dim."]}, {"id": "D13.11.78", "lines": ["When elephant or lion barred his way,", "He let no combat last beyond a day."]}, {"id": "D13.11.79", "lines": ["If any foe in jowshan, helmed, drew near,", "And faced his troops in arms without a fear,"]}, {"id": "D13.11.80", "lines": ["They slew him, or in scorn they bound the proud,", "And dragged him in the victor’s chains, head bowed."]}, {"id": "D13.12.1", "lines": ["Thus marched the Shah until his army came", "To mighty fortress Shurab, a fort of fame."]}, {"id": "D13.12.2", "lines": ["The Shah beheld the fortress rising high,", "With men, war gear, and stores beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D13.12.3", "lines": ["Its stone foundations sank through waters deep;", "Its walls rose to the clouds, immense and steep."]}, {"id": "D13.12.4", "lines": ["The troops besieged it, yet they could not trace", "A path of entrance to the guarded place."]}, {"id": "D13.12.5", "lines": ["From four sides catapults began to pound", "The fortress walls and bring them to the ground."]}, {"id": "D13.12.6", "lines": ["From every quarter came the breath of doom;", "No refuge remained, no road, no gate, no room."]}, {"id": "D13.12.7", "lines": ["As through the sky the sun pursued its flight,", "The walls sank flat, once raised to such a height."]}, {"id": "D13.12.8", "lines": ["The warriors’ cries and dust rose ever higher,", "Up to the moon with billowing smoke and fire."]}, {"id": "D13.12.9", "lines": ["The stronghold filled with heads from bodies torn,", "And headless trunks lay scattered, gashed, and worn."]}, {"id": "D13.12.10", "lines": ["The cries for quarter and the women’s screams", "Rose over tabiras in broken streams."]}, {"id": "D13.12.11", "lines": ["Great men renowned for wealth and battle might", "Were bound on elephants, a captive sight."]}, {"id": "D13.12.12", "lines": ["He spared no fighting foe amid the fray,", "And spared no gold when feasting crowned the day."]}, {"id": "D13.12.13", "lines": ["He marched; another fortress rose ahead,", "Where Caesar kept the wealth his wars had bred."]}, {"id": "D13.12.14", "lines": ["A mighty warden held that fortress fast;", "Its wealth and towers stood guarded to the last."]}, {"id": "D13.12.15", "lines": ["They called it Rum’s Adornment in its pride,", "Until the Shah brought ruin to its side."]}, {"id": "D13.12.16", "lines": ["The watchful Shah surveyed the fortress wall;", "His troops had yet to reach it at his call."]}, {"id": "D13.12.17", "lines": ["He bade his archers darken all the sky,", "Till shafts fell thick as hail from clouds on high."]}, {"id": "D13.12.18", "lines": ["The chieftains stormed the walls with hearts aflame,", "And cast fire on tower and gate and frame."]}, {"id": "D13.12.19", "lines": ["No soldier of its garrison survived;", "No thorn or briar round its fields still thrived."]}, {"id": "D13.12.20", "lines": ["The Shah gave Caesar’s treasures to his men,", "And crowns and gold went round among them then."]}, {"id": "D13.12.21", "lines": ["He brought the Day of Doom upon that town;", "Its people fled as fire and fear came down."]}, {"id": "D13.12.22", "lines": ["Then men and women, children, elders frail,", "Came to the Shah and raised a pleading wail:"]}, {"id": "D13.12.23", "lines": ["“The ministers, the treasurers, and all", "The wealth of Rum lie open at your call."]}, {"id": "D13.12.24", "lines": ["We only beg your mercy from the blade;", "We are your slaves beneath the royal shade.”"]}, {"id": "D13.12.25", "lines": ["The Shah then bade the slaughter cease that day,", "And gave them lavish gifts to ease dismay."]}, {"id": "D13.13.1", "lines": ["Departing then, the Shah resumed his way,", "And left Rum’s Adornment behind that day."]}, {"id": "D13.13.2", "lines": ["A rider told him, “Caesar’s force draws near;", "Its vanguard soon before us will appear.”"]}, {"id": "D13.13.3", "lines": ["When news arrived of jowshans, spears ahead,", "The Shah arrayed his troops where banners spread."]}, {"id": "D13.13.4", "lines": ["He ordered all his troops to take their stand,", "Prepared for war beneath his stern command."]}, {"id": "D13.13.5", "lines": ["They marched as though an iron mountain rolled;", "Their cries and karnays made the heavens cold."]}, {"id": "D13.13.6", "lines": ["A scout came riding to the royal place,", "And brought the Shah his tidings face to face."]}, {"id": "D13.13.7", "lines": ["He said, “Great Caesar has dispatched a train", "Of chiefs and warriors armed to cross the plain."]}, {"id": "D13.13.8", "lines": ["A mighty Roman leads their battle line:", "Farfuriyus, proud in war’s design."]}, {"id": "D13.13.9", "lines": ["With loud karnays and tabiras that thrum,", "He leads fierce wolves who scent the war to come.”"]}, {"id": "D13.13.10", "lines": ["While thus he spoke before the watchful king,", "Rum’s dust-clouds rose as if on eagle’s wing."]}, {"id": "D13.13.11", "lines": ["The Shah smiled back and answered to the man,", "“We knew of this and long have shaped our plan."]}, {"id": "D13.13.12", "lines": ["Our army stands prepared, its courage steeled;", "Long has this purpose in our hearts been sealed.”"]}, {"id": "D13.13.13", "lines": ["Then foam came to his lips; he gave command", "That all the army should in order stand."]}, {"id": "D13.13.14", "lines": ["So line with line confronted on the ground,", "And dust-choked air could find no passage round."]}, {"id": "D13.13.15", "lines": ["A glorious gathering filled the battlefield,", "Proud chiefs and men with scimitars to wield."]}, {"id": "D13.13.16", "lines": ["All loins were girded tightly for the fight;", "The great, the wise, the royal seed of might."]}, {"id": "D13.13.17", "lines": ["Their swords were tempered in the blood of foes,", "And keen enough to cleave the clouds that rose."]}, {"id": "D13.13.18", "lines": ["The foe had no more respite in that place", "Than hunted prey when leopards spring in chase."]}, {"id": "D13.13.19", "lines": ["The Roman dead lay heaped across the plain;", "The wounded soldiers left the fight in pain."]}, {"id": "D13.13.20", "lines": ["Farfuriyus, now wounded, fled the fray;", "Flag shredded, tabiras upturned that day."]}, {"id": "D13.13.21", "lines": ["Iranian horsemen chased them at full pace,", "Like leopards hunting wild sheep in the chase."]}, {"id": "D13.13.22", "lines": ["They swept Rum’s legions from the field in rout;", "Then Anooshirvan led his army out."]}, {"id": "D13.13.23", "lines": ["With gorz and sword in hand, his soldiers came,", "And marched across the plain in warlike flame."]}, {"id": "D13.13.24", "lines": ["He led them till another stronghold rose,", "A citadel prepared to meet its foes."]}, {"id": "D13.13.25", "lines": ["Its name was Kaliniyus; its wall rose high", "Above the eagle’s passage through the sky."]}, {"id": "D13.13.26", "lines": ["A full moat girded it on every side,", "And fair domains around it spread in pride."]}, {"id": "D13.13.27", "lines": ["There halls and gardens, groves, and mansions fair", "Displayed Rum’s wealth and splendor everywhere."]}, {"id": "D13.13.28", "lines": ["A Roman garrison held every tower,", "With seasoned men prepared to prove their power."]}, {"id": "D13.13.29", "lines": ["The Shah pitched camp two farsangs from the site;", "The army’s dust turned all the air to night."]}, {"id": "D13.13.30", "lines": ["From Kaliniyus rose a battle-cry,", "A roar that drowned the tymbals in the sky."]}, {"id": "D13.13.31", "lines": ["The Shah surveyed the city’s walls of stone;", "The troops about it had in number grown."]}, {"id": "D13.13.32", "lines": ["The gates became the scene of fierce attack;", "With shafts and fire-pots they drove men back."]}, {"id": "D13.13.33", "lines": ["When evening paled and half the sky grew dark,", "No wall stood whole beneath the battle’s mark."]}, {"id": "D13.13.34", "lines": ["The city all lay level with the ground;", "Then from the Shah’s own gate there came a sound."]}, {"id": "D13.13.35", "lines": ["A proclamation through the army ran:", "“Withdraw from Kaliniyus, every man."]}, {"id": "D13.13.36", "lines": ["Come from the city; take the open plain,", "And there through darkness let the troops remain."]}, {"id": "D13.13.37", "lines": ["If cries from women or from elders rise,", "Or pillage, strife, or riot reach the skies,"]}, {"id": "D13.13.38", "lines": ["If one complaint should reach me of such sin,", "With straw my men shall stuff the culprit’s skin.”"]}, {"id": "D13.13.39", "lines": ["When morning raised its hand through Cancer’s sign,", "And banished sleep with rays of light divine,"]}, {"id": "D13.13.40", "lines": ["The tymbals sounded at the royal gate;", "The foremost chiefs came forth in ordered state."]}, {"id": "D13.13.41", "lines": ["Then from that hold, its women and its men", "Assembled at the Shah’s great gate again."]}, {"id": "D13.13.42", "lines": ["They said, “No mounted warrior now is near;", "No noble of the town can now appear."]}, {"id": "D13.13.43", "lines": ["Though guiltless, all lie slain or wounded here;", "Now let the Shah’s compassion conquer fear."]}, {"id": "D13.13.44", "lines": ["God’s justice cannot count such bondage right:", "Young, old, and babes and women share this plight."]}, {"id": "D13.13.45", "lines": ["The citadel and city’s walls are gone;", "Hereafter only thorn-brakes will live on."]}, {"id": "D13.13.46", "lines": ["Since Caesar was the one who fanned this flame,", "Why should Kaliniyus’ folk bear the blame?”"]}, {"id": "D13.13.47", "lines": ["The Shah gave pardon to those Roman folk;", "Both guilty and guiltless escaped the stroke."]}, {"id": "D13.13.48", "lines": ["He left them means enough to live in health,", "Then marched away with arms and gathered wealth."]}, {"id": "D13.13.49", "lines": ["But those among the folk still fit to fight", "Were bound on elephants and sent from sight."]}, {"id": "D13.13.50", "lines": ["Then news reached Antakiya’s guarded wall:", "“The Shah advances; hear his battle-call.”"]}, {"id": "D13.13.51", "lines": ["Within that city massed a countless throng,", "Rum’s legions armed for battle, keen and strong."]}, {"id": "D13.13.52", "lines": ["The Shah allowed them three days’ respite still,", "That war might spare the innocent from ill."]}, {"id": "D13.13.53", "lines": ["But on the fourth his army, mountain-like,", "Drew up Iran’s warriors in ranks to strike."]}, {"id": "D13.13.54", "lines": ["To guard their women, children, wealth, and name,", "Rum’s bold horsemen advanced in battle flame."]}, {"id": "D13.13.55", "lines": ["Three mighty battles filled two bitter days;", "The third dawn broke beneath the sun’s bright blaze."]}, {"id": "D13.13.56", "lines": ["Across that prosperous region, far and wide,", "No Roman horseman found a place to hide."]}, {"id": "D13.13.57", "lines": ["No Roman horseman held the field that day;", "Iran’s troops seized the city in array."]}, {"id": "D13.13.58", "lines": ["So dense the soldiers stood in that estate,", "There was no room to stand inside the gate."]}, {"id": "D13.13.59", "lines": ["The men of rank who wore the crown’s bright sign,", "With Caesar’s treasurers, formed a suppliant line."]}, {"id": "D13.13.60", "lines": ["They gave their treasures to Iran’s great king,", "The wealth that Roman coffers forth could bring."]}, {"id": "D13.13.61", "lines": ["Iranians bound the warriors of that land,", "On elephants they set them by command."]}, {"id": "D13.13.62", "lines": ["The Shah sent off the captives, bound in chain,", "To Madain, with the spoil of Roman pain."]}, {"id": "D13.13.63", "lines": ["He then went round the city and beheld", "A countryside where moonlike splendors welled."]}, {"id": "D13.13.64", "lines": ["The gardens, groves, and waters made age new,", "Restoring youth and freshness to the view."]}, {"id": "D13.13.65", "lines": ["The king addressed his nobles in delight:", "“Is this young spring, or Antakiya’s sight?"]}, {"id": "D13.13.66", "lines": ["Whoever has not seen glad Paradise—", "Its musk-rich soil and gold bricks beyond price;"]}, {"id": "D13.13.67", "lines": ["Its trees are rubies, rosewater its streams;", "Its earth is heaven; its sky with sunlight gleams—"]}, {"id": "D13.13.68", "lines": ["Should look upon this land, where blessings flow;", "May all the lands of Rum in plenty grow.”"]}, {"id": "D13.14.1", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan bade his builders raise", "A splendid city graced by waterways,"]}, {"id": "D13.14.2", "lines": ["Like Antakiya, radiant as a flame,", "With groves and rose-beds worthy of its name."]}, {"id": "D13.14.3", "lines": ["The great men, glad in heart and face aglow,", "And named the new-built town Zib-e-Khosrow."]}, {"id": "D13.14.4", "lines": ["It seemed like spring, all color, scent, and light,", "A paradise made pleasing to the sight."]}, {"id": "D13.14.5", "lines": ["The captives taken from the towns of Rum,", "Whose fetters galled them in their exile’s gloom,"]}, {"id": "D13.14.6", "lines": ["Were freed by Anooshirvan that same day,", "And there were given homes in which to stay."]}, {"id": "D13.14.7", "lines": ["He said, “We built this city for delight,", "With gardens, rose-beds, palaces, and light,"]}, {"id": "D13.14.8", "lines": ["That each may find a dwelling to his mind,", "With beauty fit for all of mortal kind.”"]}, {"id": "D13.14.9", "lines": ["He gave each captive gifts and ample aid,", "Till Paradise seemed there on earth remade."]}, {"id": "D13.14.10", "lines": ["In mansions, streets, and markets all around,", "No vacant space within the town was found."]}, {"id": "D13.14.11", "lines": ["A shoemaker came forth and, grieving, cried,", "“O just king, hear what joy I am denied."]}, {"id": "D13.14.12", "lines": ["At my old house in Kaliniyus grew", "A mulberry whose shade I loved and knew."]}, {"id": "D13.14.13", "lines": ["I find no joy in living here at all;", "No mulberry stands by my doorway wall.”"]}, {"id": "D13.14.14", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan ordered, “Go, restore", "Some thriving trees beside that poor man’s door.”"]}, {"id": "D13.14.15", "lines": ["The Shah then chose a Christian, wise and fair,", "Gave wealth and troops, and made the town his care."]}, {"id": "D13.14.16", "lines": ["He said, “This city now belongs to you;", "Guard all these strangers and their dwellings too."]}, {"id": "D13.14.17", "lines": ["Be like a fruitful tree for everyone;", "At times a father, and at times a son."]}, {"id": "D13.14.18", "lines": ["Give freely; put all stinginess away;", "Be measured in whatever you may say.”"]}, {"id": "D13.14.19", "lines": ["The Shah marched out from Antakiya’s land,", "And left the city in that Christian’s hand."]}, {"id": "D13.14.20", "lines": ["Farfuriyus before great Caesar came,", "And told of Kaliniyus’ fall and shame."]}, {"id": "D13.14.21", "lines": ["He said, “Anooshirvan came in might,", "With troops and elephants prepared for fight."]}, {"id": "D13.14.22", "lines": ["So vast his army, seas and mountain spurs", "Are lost beneath the dust each horseman stirs.”"]}, {"id": "D13.14.23", "lines": ["Then Caesar writhed at all that he had said,", "And called his prudent chiefs in fear and dread."]}, {"id": "D13.14.24", "lines": ["He feared the Shah, and sat in anxious thought,", "And counsel through the light and darkness sought."]}, {"id": "D13.14.25", "lines": ["A Mobad said, “Your counsel went amiss;", "You lacked the strength to fight a Shah like this."]}, {"id": "D13.14.26", "lines": ["His dust will leave your kingdom overthrown;", "The ruin that now threatens is your own.”"]}, {"id": "D13.14.27", "lines": ["With fluent speech but judgment weak and vain,", "A ruler brings his kingdom only pain."]}, {"id": "D13.14.28", "lines": ["These words left Caesar lost in doubt and fear;", "Dread of the Shah made every course unclear."]}, {"id": "D13.15.1", "lines": ["He chose philosophers of noble birth,", "Whose learning matched their eloquence in worth."]}, {"id": "D13.15.2", "lines": ["Full sixty wise Mobadan, pure in soul,", "Were chosen to fulfill the mission’s goal."]}, {"id": "D13.15.3", "lines": ["Caesar dispatched the embassy that day;", "The noble envoys bore his words away."]}, {"id": "D13.15.4", "lines": ["Their leader, Mehras, ready-witted, wise,", "Had youthful years but age within his eyes."]}, {"id": "D13.15.5", "lines": ["Before them went vast treasures of all kinds,", "Beyond the count of careful human minds."]}, {"id": "D13.15.6", "lines": ["Caesar repented what his tongue had said,", "And sent fair words and counsel in its stead."]}, {"id": "D13.15.7", "lines": ["With heavy tribute, hostages now went:", "His kin and warriors were among those sent."]}, {"id": "D13.15.8", "lines": ["When Mehras heard, he saw how things might be:", "The tangled knot had yielded and come free."]}, {"id": "D13.15.9", "lines": ["They reached the Shah, prepared to speak their part,", "Their tongues like diamonds honed by wit and art."]}, {"id": "D13.15.10", "lines": ["Wise Mehras came before him; his oration", "In Roman praised the ruler of the nation."]}, {"id": "D13.15.11", "lines": ["So keen and true his speech, one could believe", "That he could draw a star from out his sleeve."]}, {"id": "D13.15.12", "lines": ["He said, “O king, think less of earthly things,", "Of all the wealth and rank that fortune brings."]}, {"id": "D13.15.13", "lines": ["You now are here in Rum, while Iran lies", "Empty of glory underneath the skies."]}, {"id": "D13.15.14", "lines": ["So when great Caesar far from Rum must roam,", "A gnat outweighs the value of our home."]}, {"id": "D13.15.15", "lines": ["All worth comes from the people of a place;", "Without them, human goodness leaves no trace."]}, {"id": "D13.15.16", "lines": ["If all this tumult rose from greed for gain,", "Which makes both honor and good judgment wane,"]}, {"id": "D13.15.17", "lines": ["Behold, I bring you all Rum has possessed;", "Yet peace of soul outweighs each golden chest.”"]}, {"id": "D13.15.18", "lines": ["The king’s heart, hearing this, grew bright as spring,", "Like gardens when the birds begin to sing."]}, {"id": "D13.15.19", "lines": ["He took the envoys’ gifts with gladdened face,", "The bags of gold and slaves brought to that place."]}, {"id": "D13.15.20", "lines": ["He praised the envoys, then bestowed still more", "Of royal favor than he showed before."]}, {"id": "D13.15.21", "lines": ["He said, “The man who nurtures wisdom’s flame", "Deserves a valiant warrior’s honored name."]}, {"id": "D13.15.22", "lines": ["If all Rum’s soil were changed to solid gold,", "You still would outvalue that land of old.”"]}, {"id": "D13.15.23", "lines": ["They fixed the tribute Caesar had to bear:", "Ten ox-hides’ worth of dinars as his share."]}, {"id": "D13.15.24", "lines": ["Each year Rum’s king must send the sum decreed,", "With further gifts to seal the peaceful deed."]}, {"id": "D13.15.25", "lines": ["Caesar’s troops must not enter Yemen then,", "Nor take a thing from any of its men."]}, {"id": "D13.15.26", "lines": ["They robed the envoys, and to make complete", "Their honor, capped their heads and shod their feet."]}, {"id": "D13.15.27", "lines": ["Then karnays blared and brazen cymbals rang;", "The prudent Shah moved on as war-songs sprang."]}, {"id": "D13.15.28", "lines": ["He led his army onward into Sham,", "And tarried there awhile in ordered calm."]}, {"id": "D13.15.29", "lines": ["He brought back crowns and thrones and wealth from war,", "With troops and slaves and money in great store."]}, {"id": "D13.15.30", "lines": ["The earth’s back bent beneath the elephant train,", "And treasured dirhams added to the strain."]}, {"id": "D13.15.31", "lines": ["When he resolved to leave that conquered land,", "He placed Shirviyeh, Bahram’s son, in command."]}, {"id": "D13.15.32", "lines": ["He said, “Collect the tribute Caesar pays;", "Let no neglect creep through the months and days.”"]}, {"id": "D13.15.33", "lines": ["Shirviyeh kissed the earth, his body prone,", "And blessed the Shah in reverent, loyal tone:"]}, {"id": "D13.15.34", "lines": ["“Be watchful, blessed; may this Kayanian tree", "Stay green, from yellow leaves forever free.”"]}, {"id": "D13.15.35", "lines": ["When tabiras rolled at the monarch’s gate,", "His troops marched toward Arman in ordered state."]}, {"id": "D13.16.1", "lines": ["Anooshirvan shone, the world’s hope and dread,", "A king who wore the sun upon his head."]}, {"id": "D13.16.2", "lines": ["As heaven’s sun speeds onward in its course,", "He bore both sword and mercy with like force:"]}, {"id": "D13.16.3", "lines": ["Relentless in the hour of wrath and flame,", "Yet full of mercy when compassion came."]}, {"id": "D13.16.4", "lines": ["So was this Shah of noble royal line,", "Whose justice made the world around him shine."]}, {"id": "D13.16.5", "lines": ["Know this: the monarch in his royal state,", "Like every subject, must possess a mate."]}, {"id": "D13.16.6", "lines": ["Each needs both food and clothing, and with these", "A private place for comfort, rest, and ease."]}, {"id": "D13.16.7", "lines": ["If then the wife is pious and discreet,", "She proves a treasure, rich and full and sweet."]}, {"id": "D13.16.8", "lines": ["Still more if she stands tall, with flowing hair", "Whose scent of musk perfumes the very air:"]}, {"id": "D13.16.9", "lines": ["Wise, learned, well counseled, chaste in every part,", "With gentle speech that shows a gracious heart."]}, {"id": "D13.16.10", "lines": ["The noble Shah possessed a wife like this,", "A cypress in her height, a moon in bliss."]}, {"id": "D13.16.11", "lines": ["That moon-faced woman worshipped at Christ’s shrine;", "All tongues extolled her beauty as divine."]}, {"id": "D13.16.12", "lines": ["She bore a child whose face outshone the sky,", "More bright than Venus to the gazing eye."]}, {"id": "D13.16.13", "lines": ["The child was called Nushzad, so gently bred", "No harsh wind stirred the hair upon his head."]}, {"id": "D13.16.14", "lines": ["He grew like cypress, straight and tall and grand,", "A gifted youth, the glory of the land."]}, {"id": "D13.16.15", "lines": ["He knew of Hell and Paradise’s road,", "Of Christ, of Esdras, and what Zardosht showed."]}, {"id": "D13.16.16", "lines": ["The Zand-Avesta failed to win his trust;", "He turned to Christ, whose faith he held as just."]}, {"id": "D13.16.17", "lines": ["Baptism washed his face; he turned aside", "To take his mother’s faith to be his guide."]}, {"id": "D13.16.18", "lines": ["He left his father’s faith, and men would view", "His choice with wonder all that era through."]}, {"id": "D13.16.19", "lines": ["The king grew troubled, grieving and forlorn:", "His rose had yielded nothing but a thorn."]}, {"id": "D13.16.20", "lines": ["They sealed the portals of his palace fair,", "And made a prison of that dwelling rare."]}, {"id": "D13.16.21", "lines": ["His prison-house at Gund-e-Shapur lay,", "From Iran and from Bakhtar far away."]}, {"id": "D13.16.22", "lines": ["Many condemned and captive men were then", "Confined with him inside that guarded pen."]}, {"id": "D13.16.23", "lines": ["Now when the Shah returned from Rum’s campaign,", "The march and turmoil pressed him hard with pain."]}, {"id": "D13.16.24", "lines": ["So weak he grew that court could not be held,", "And illness through the royal body swelled."]}, {"id": "D13.16.25", "lines": ["One bore the tidings to Nushzad and said,", "“The empire’s grace has fled; the Shah is dead.”"]}, {"id": "D13.16.26", "lines": ["His father’s death brought joy to Nushzad’s heart;", "May every joy from such a man depart!"]}, {"id": "D13.16.27", "lines": ["Who smiles when just kings pass from mortal sight", "Must bear a gloomy spirit void of light."]}, {"id": "D13.16.28", "lines": ["A famous sage once gave this sharp reply:", "“If my death brings you joy, then never die.”"]}, {"id": "D13.16.29", "lines": ["From death no mortal refuge can be won;", "Sooner or later, life for all is done."]}, {"id": "D13.16.30", "lines": ["Yet death can never wreck the righteous soul", "Whose labors seek God’s favor as their goal."]}, {"id": "D13.16.31", "lines": ["That son is both a reprobate and fool", "Who will not walk beneath his father’s rule."]}, {"id": "D13.16.32", "lines": ["The colocynth, whether wet or dry,", "Will never breathe musk fragrance to the sky."]}, {"id": "D13.16.33", "lines": ["Why should the gardener expect the seed", "To change the nature fixed within its breed?"]}, {"id": "D13.16.34", "lines": ["If any plant inclines toward earth below,", "It turns from sunlight and pure water’s flow."]}, {"id": "D13.16.35", "lines": ["The plant bears neither fruit nor leafy growth;", "It owes the earth its life and dying both."]}, {"id": "D13.17.1", "lines": ["I have named Nushzad; give my counsel heed,", "And never quit the path of righteous deed."]}, {"id": "D13.17.2", "lines": ["If heaven itself could own a mother’s face,", "Anooshirvan would fill that mother’s place."]}, {"id": "D13.17.3", "lines": ["Why should his son forsake his father’s course,", "And grasp at crown and sovereignty by force?"]}, {"id": "D13.17.4", "lines": ["My son, now listen; I shall tell you all,", "Concealing nothing, whether great or small."]}, {"id": "D13.17.5", "lines": ["I shaped the dehqan’s lore to leave behind", "A monument to outlive mortal mind."]}, {"id": "D13.17.6", "lines": ["May this memorial keep my work in view,", "And blessings find the soul that reads it through."]}, {"id": "D13.17.7", "lines": ["When I am gone, I ask no greater prize", "Than that my name in honor still should rise."]}, {"id": "D13.17.8", "lines": ["A sage of six-score years, austere and wise,", "Beheld this tale with sorrow in his eyes:"]}, {"id": "D13.17.9", "lines": ["“Whoever treats a righteous king with strife", "Springs from the Dark Deceiver, not from life.”"]}, {"id": "D13.17.10", "lines": ["Of Nushzad ancient legend tells the same,", "As old tradition handed down his name."]}, {"id": "D13.17.11", "lines": ["He heard the throne was empty of its Tree;", "His father gone, the seat of kingship free."]}, {"id": "D13.17.12", "lines": ["He opened wide his palace doors; his call", "Drew troops from every quarter to his hall."]}, {"id": "D13.17.13", "lines": ["Men who had left all reason far behind,", "Whom Anooshirvan had ordered confined,"]}, {"id": "D13.17.14", "lines": ["Nushzad released from prison and from chains,", "And panic swept the streets and crowded lanes."]}, {"id": "D13.17.15", "lines": ["He gathered Christians, priests and prelates bold,", "And drew them all within his rebel fold."]}, {"id": "D13.17.16", "lines": ["He summoned horsemen, swordsmen to his hand,", "All armed for war and under his command."]}, {"id": "D13.17.17", "lines": ["His mother gave him treasures from her store,", "The gifts the Shah had heaped on her before."]}, {"id": "D13.17.18", "lines": ["Then thirty thousand men had joined his side,", "All famed in arms, all ready, battle-tried."]}, {"id": "D13.17.19", "lines": ["The towns around him fell beneath his hand,", "And news of Nushzad spread across the land."]}, {"id": "D13.17.20", "lines": ["He took the tribute Ahvaz had to pay,", "And Shushtar’s dues as well, without delay."]}, {"id": "D13.17.21", "lines": ["From Gund-e-Shapur, letters sped away", "To Caesar, pledging faith to Roman sway."]}, {"id": "D13.17.22", "lines": ["The towns of Madain soon heard the tale,", "And every loyal heart with fear grew pale."]}, {"id": "D13.17.23", "lines": ["The frontier warden, when the truth was known,", "Sent forth a horseman to the royal throne."]}, {"id": "D13.17.24", "lines": ["He told the rider all that he had learned,", "The secret plot and how rebellion burned."]}, {"id": "D13.17.25", "lines": ["Like running water, swiftly on he went,", "And reached the Shah to whom he had been sent."]}, {"id": "D13.17.26", "lines": ["He gave the letter, then recounted all", "Nushzad had done since first he raised the call."]}, {"id": "D13.17.27", "lines": ["The Shah heard all, then read the letter through;", "Grief struck his heart; bewilderment then grew."]}, {"id": "D13.17.28", "lines": ["The Shah sat with a noble Mobad, wise,", "And spoke in private, far from other eyes."]}, {"id": "D13.17.29", "lines": ["When he had settled matters in his mind,", "He called a scribe to write what he designed."]}, {"id": "D13.18.1", "lines": ["The Shah, sore-hearted, with a frowning face,", "With sighing lips began his words to trace."]}, {"id": "D13.18.2", "lines": ["He first gave praise to Him who fashioned all,", "The heavens, time, and earth beneath His call,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.3", "lines": ["The Maker of the sun and moon on high,", "Of Saturn, crown, and farr that kings live by."]}, {"id": "D13.18.4", "lines": ["“From worthless stubble to the elephant’s might,", "From lions’ strength to ants in dust, so slight,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.5", "lines": ["From smallest ant to Nile’s abundant flow,", "All creatures under God’s commandment go."]}, {"id": "D13.18.6", "lines": ["His great command holds each created soul;", "No hand can ever wrest from Him control."]}, {"id": "D13.18.7", "lines": ["I read the bitter letter that made known", "The harm my son has wrought against the throne."]}, {"id": "D13.18.8", "lines": ["I heard of felons broken from their ward,", "Who now around Nushzad have drawn the sword."]}, {"id": "D13.18.9", "lines": ["Better to quit the world than see this day;", "All born must die and pass from earth away."]}, {"id": "D13.18.10", "lines": ["First Anooshirvan, then Nushzad must go;", "No earthly life escapes death’s overthrow."]}, {"id": "D13.18.11", "lines": ["From gnat and ant to elephant in power,", "All meet death’s claw and beak at their last hour."]}, {"id": "D13.18.12", "lines": ["If earth revealed the secrets in its breast,", "And showed the first and last within its chest,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.13", "lines": ["Its bosom would be filled with buried kings,", "Its soil with blood from heroes wearing rings."]}, {"id": "D13.18.14", "lines": ["Its skirts would show the learned gone below,", "Its folds fair-cheeked dames vanished long ago."]}, {"id": "D13.18.15", "lines": ["Why set a crown or helmet on your head,", "When death’s swift shaft will lay you with the dead?"]}, {"id": "D13.18.16", "lines": ["No one rejoices at a son’s last breath,", "Although all men are subject now to death."]}, {"id": "D13.18.17", "lines": ["But those who gather close about my son,", "And count my days as if my life were done,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.18", "lines": ["If they themselves could pass death’s peril by,", "Then they might well rejoice when others die."]}, {"id": "D13.18.19", "lines": ["Only the misbegotten knaves await", "The death of righteous Shahs and call it fate."]}, {"id": "D13.18.20", "lines": ["Though Nushzad turned his head from our command,", "Because the Div has guided his right hand,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.21", "lines": ["His purpose has no firmness in this strife;", "Desire now drives him to destroy his life."]}, {"id": "D13.18.22", "lines": ["He thought, ‘While I am crowned, no king shall reign", "To rival me throughout the world’s domain.’"]}, {"id": "D13.18.23", "lines": ["Such news should not have led his mind astray,", "Nor made him cast his place with us away."]}, {"id": "D13.18.24", "lines": ["Had Anooshirvan’s seat of kings stood bare,", "Nushzad would be the realm’s most glorious heir."]}, {"id": "D13.18.25", "lines": ["Still, such an act befits his chosen creed,", "And suits a soul that turns to evil deed."]}, {"id": "D13.18.26", "lines": ["I am not moved or fearful in this thing,", "Though our son’s faith flows from a tainted spring."]}, {"id": "D13.18.27", "lines": ["As for the wealth that he has wrecked and spent,", "I count that loss as light, and rest content."]}, {"id": "D13.18.28", "lines": ["As for all those who joined his wrongful side,", "And from their hearts cast awe of us aside,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.29", "lines": ["The wrongdoers, malignant, base in birth,", "Unworthy subjects of my crown on earth,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.30", "lines": ["We look on them as despicable men;", "Their deeds must not alarm your heart again."]}, {"id": "D13.18.31", "lines": ["My fear is of the Master of the world,", "Before whose wisdom all the veils are furled."]}, {"id": "D13.18.32", "lines": ["We must be ever thankful in our soul", "To God, whose knowledge comprehends the whole."]}, {"id": "D13.18.33", "lines": ["He gave me triumph, farr, and power to reign,", "The diadem and rule of my domain."]}, {"id": "D13.18.34", "lines": ["Had my praise matched the greatness of His gift,", "My fortune would have known a higher lift."]}, {"id": "D13.18.35", "lines": ["A drop of seed went from my loins one day,", "And found its rest elsewhere, from me away."]}, {"id": "D13.18.36", "lines": ["It woke, and rose against me as my foe;", "I fear I am the source of my own woe."]}, {"id": "D13.18.37", "lines": ["Yet if Yazdan has no wrath aimed at me,", "I do not fear what earthly eyes may see."]}, {"id": "D13.18.38", "lines": ["In my regard, all those who join my son", "Are vile and low; their honor’s race is run."]}, {"id": "D13.18.39", "lines": ["The letter sent by Caesar to his hand", "Brought troubled waters flowing through the land."]}, {"id": "D13.18.40", "lines": ["So close their faith and purpose now appear,", "One thinks that Caesar stands before us here."]}, {"id": "D13.18.41", "lines": ["The man who leaves his fathers’ ancient creed", "Has lost the wisdom that the soul may need."]}, {"id": "D13.18.42", "lines": ["That son is best who shares his father’s way,", "And does not war with sire in evil day."]}, {"id": "D13.18.43", "lines": ["Although that senseless youth has left the right,", "No lip must curse him in the people’s sight."]}, {"id": "D13.18.44", "lines": ["To curse him is, in essence, our disgrace,", "For our own blood is written on his face."]}, {"id": "D13.18.45", "lines": ["Array the troops; let every rank stand tight,", "But let restraint and wisdom guide the fight."]}, {"id": "D13.18.46", "lines": ["Hold back at first; if matters pass their bound,", "And he gives battle on the open ground,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.47", "lines": ["Take him alive; let killing be the last,", "That he may yet repent of what has passed."]}, {"id": "D13.18.48", "lines": ["The water that has made this cypress grow", "Should not be used to wash the dirt below."]}, {"id": "D13.18.49", "lines": ["But if he holds his honored person cheap,", "And casts away the pillow fit for sleep,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.50", "lines": ["If that tall cypress shall demean its state,", "Then do not spare the gorz at battle’s gate."]}, {"id": "D13.18.51", "lines": ["A man of rank indulging base desire", "Cannot be freed from that consuming fire."]}, {"id": "D13.18.52", "lines": ["Such high-born men are base in open sight", "When they against the world’s great monarch fight."]}, {"id": "D13.18.53", "lines": ["Fear not to slay him if his pride has led", "His royal blood to stain the dust with red."]}, {"id": "D13.18.54", "lines": ["He hastened toward Caesar’s faith and crown,", "And cast his old allegiance wholly down."]}, {"id": "D13.18.55", "lines": ["By this his greatness has become a shame;", "His chosen course has stained his royal name."]}, {"id": "D13.18.56", "lines": ["He chose his ruin from high heaven’s wheel,", "And turned from all that royal hearts should feel."]}, {"id": "D13.18.57", "lines": ["Wise Mehr-e-Nush, in woolen garments dressed,", "A thoughtful servant, thus his view expressed:"]}, {"id": "D13.18.58", "lines": ["‘The man made glad to see his father’s death,", "May he have neither happiness nor breath.’"]}, {"id": "D13.18.59", "lines": ["Seek no light in the darkness of the stream;", "Do not mix fire and water in one dream."]}, {"id": "D13.18.60", "lines": ["All ease that mortals taste is laced with pain;", "Such is the law beneath which all remain."]}, {"id": "D13.18.61", "lines": ["Do not befriend the ever-turning sky;", "Now shell, now kernel, men are lifted high."]}, {"id": "D13.18.62", "lines": ["Why seek the hues and scents its favors lend?", "It shows its face, then robs you in the end."]}, {"id": "D13.18.63", "lines": ["Whenever heaven lifts your fame and state,", "Your toil and fear and loss grow yet more great."]}, {"id": "D13.18.64", "lines": ["As for the soldiers gathered to his side,", "Who leave the path of duty, false in pride,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.65", "lines": ["Know they are wind and playthings in our eyes,", "The mockery of every man called wise."]}, {"id": "D13.18.66", "lines": ["As for the Christians serving in his ranks,", "Who rose for faith and swelled rebellion’s flanks,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.67", "lines": ["Christ’s teaching holds that even words that smart", "Must not be used to wound another’s heart."]}, {"id": "D13.18.68", "lines": ["They leave Christ’s path and precepts, and in loss", "Become at last the foemen of the Cross."]}, {"id": "D13.18.69", "lines": ["As for the others, common rabble, low,", "Ill-taught and rash wherever they may go,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.70", "lines": ["They will not stir up fear in any man;", "Their counsel is a breath and empty plan."]}, {"id": "D13.18.71", "lines": ["If in the fight you take my son alive,", "Speak not these words, nor let reproach revive."]}, {"id": "D13.18.72", "lines": ["Do not torment his heart with words of blame,", "Lest grief extinguish his remaining flame."]}, {"id": "D13.18.73", "lines": ["His person must not suffer hurt or stain,", "Nor should his clothing show the marks of pain."]}, {"id": "D13.18.74", "lines": ["Our veiled women might destroy their lives,", "And grief would pierce our household like sharp knives."]}, {"id": "D13.18.75", "lines": ["His palace will provide the fitting ward", "For him and all who followed with the sword."]}, {"id": "D13.18.76", "lines": ["Let him draw freely on my wealth, secure,", "Though one so dear has grown so vile and poor."]}, {"id": "D13.18.77", "lines": ["Provide him women, food, and bedding; meet", "His wants, and let his comfort be complete."]}, {"id": "D13.18.78", "lines": ["For he is suited only to such things,", "To chambers, comforts, tapestries of kings."]}, {"id": "D13.18.79", "lines": ["As for Iran’s marzbans who took his side,", "Who girded up their loins and joined his pride,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.80", "lines": ["When you have conquered, do not hesitate;", "Then cleave them through the waist: that is their fate."]}, {"id": "D13.18.81", "lines": ["All foes of the great monarch’s crown and name", "Are rightly thrown to the nahangs in shame."]}, {"id": "D13.18.82", "lines": ["Besides these, all who bear me secret hate,", "The seed of Ahriman, corrupt in state,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.83", "lines": ["Have cast aside each gift our bounty made;", "Nushzad has shown how kindness is repaid."]}, {"id": "D13.18.84", "lines": ["They served us once as watchmen of the crown,", "And feared our penalties when law came down."]}, {"id": "D13.18.85", "lines": ["Those onlookers who railed against my son,", "And wagged their tongues at what the youth had done,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.86", "lines": ["Know that in cursing him they cursed us too,", "And from their rancor fresh disorder grew."]}, {"id": "D13.18.87", "lines": ["Do not behave as foemen in this case;", "Though he is lost, our blood is in his face."]}, {"id": "D13.18.88", "lines": ["Such is the truthful witness of my heart;", "Let no man from this measured law depart."]}, {"id": "D13.18.89", "lines": ["Whoever spoke against him out of spite,", "Or dealt with him unjustly in men’s sight,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.90", "lines": ["Brand that man’s tongue before the gathered crowd,", "So none may wrong my royal son aloud."]}, {"id": "D13.18.91", "lines": ["Who waits in hope to see the coming hour", "When failing strength diminishes our power,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.92", "lines": ["Then turns to malice, treachery, and hate,", "And Ahriman’s dark ways against the state,"]}, {"id": "D13.18.93", "lines": ["Must find no warrant in this realm of mine,", "Where crown and royal face and Glory shine.”"]}, {"id": "D13.18.94", "lines": ["They sealed the letter; then the courier sped,", "To Ram Barzin, just as the Shah had said."]}, {"id": "D13.19.1", "lines": ["He handed Ram Barzin the Shah’s command,", "Which told him how to deal with Nushzad’s band."]}, {"id": "D13.19.2", "lines": ["It bade him levy troops and take the field,", "And banish softness, and refuse to yield."]}, {"id": "D13.19.3", "lines": ["The old man read the letter and then heard", "The messenger recount the royal word."]}, {"id": "D13.19.4", "lines": ["At cockcrow from the palace portal broke", "The tymbals’ din, and all the city woke."]}, {"id": "D13.19.5", "lines": ["From Madain’s gates a mighty army came,", "And Ram Barzin led on to war and fame."]}, {"id": "D13.19.6", "lines": ["News reached Nushzad; he called and paid his men,", "And gathered all who served his banner then."]}, {"id": "D13.19.7", "lines": ["The Christian prelates and the chiefs of Rum", "All gathered from their marches, plume on plume."]}, {"id": "D13.19.8", "lines": ["They joined with Shammas, chosen for command,", "Their hands blood-stained in battles through the land."]}, {"id": "D13.19.9", "lines": ["From Nushzad’s portal rose a mighty shout;", "The army surged like storm-tossed seas throughout."]}, {"id": "D13.19.10", "lines": ["They poured out from the city to the plain,", "Their minds on war, their hearts on wrath and pain."]}, {"id": "D13.19.11", "lines": ["When Ram Barzin beheld their rising cloud,", "He blew the karnays, and his ranks stood proud."]}, {"id": "D13.19.12", "lines": ["The dust, the charging chiefs in jowshan scale,", "The brandished gorzes made the hard rocks quail."]}, {"id": "D13.19.13", "lines": ["They rent the hearts of flint; no eye had sight", "Of the sun’s face beneath the dust of fight."]}, {"id": "D13.19.14", "lines": ["Within the center of his armed array,", "Nushzad put on his Roman helm that day."]}, {"id": "D13.19.15", "lines": ["The Christian prelates filled his ranks; the ground", "Was lost beneath the horse-hoofs all around."]}, {"id": "D13.19.16", "lines": ["The earth beneath their trampling seemed to boil,", "While shrieking air recoiled above the soil."]}, {"id": "D13.19.17", "lines": ["A warrior jowshan-clad, Pirooz the old,", "Came forth and spoke his counsel, brave and bold:"]}, {"id": "D13.19.18", "lines": ["“O famed Nushzad, who turned your head from right?", "Why seek this ruin and this reckless fight?"]}, {"id": "D13.19.19", "lines": ["Contend not with the army of the king,", "Or bitter sorrow from the deed will spring."]}, {"id": "D13.19.20", "lines": ["You have forsworn the faith of ancient days,", "Kioumars, Hushang, Tahmuras, and their ways."]}, {"id": "D13.19.21", "lines": ["Christ, the deceiver, met a death of shame", "Because he left the faith of God’s own name."]}, {"id": "D13.19.22", "lines": ["Choose not, among the founders of belief,", "The one whose error brought him death and grief."]}, {"id": "D13.19.23", "lines": ["If God’s own farr had truly shone in him,", "How could the Jews have made his power dim?"]}, {"id": "D13.19.24", "lines": ["You heard what Anooshirvan, your sire,", "Brought down on Caesar’s realm with sword and fire."]}, {"id": "D13.19.25", "lines": ["Yet now against that father you conspire", "To seize his crown, consumed by vain desire."]}, {"id": "D13.19.26", "lines": ["For all your moonlike face and royal grace,", "Your stature, limbs, the gorz your strong hands brace,"]}, {"id": "D13.19.27", "lines": ["I see no wisdom dwelling in your mind;", "A dark soul drives you, reckless, rash, and blind."]}, {"id": "D13.19.28", "lines": ["Woe for your head, your crown, your name and birth,", "Which now you cast away upon the earth."]}, {"id": "D13.19.29", "lines": ["For any son to seek his father’s reign", "While he still lives; what justice can he gain?"]}, {"id": "D13.19.30", "lines": ["To seek the crown if he is dead is well;", "To fight him living opens gates of hell."]}, {"id": "D13.19.31", "lines": ["Though you may roar like lion in command,", "You cannot match the Shah of Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "D13.19.32", "lines": ["Though in the courts of ancient kings I knew", "No bridle-hand to match what yours could do,"]}, {"id": "D13.19.33", "lines": ["Nor foot and stirrup, breast and neck so fair,", "Nor such a gorz raised high in battle air,"]}, {"id": "D13.19.34", "lines": ["And though no painter out of China drew", "A prince whose strength and beauty rivaled you,"]}, {"id": "D13.19.35", "lines": ["Do not scorch Anooshirvan’s soul through wrong,", "Nor dim the crown that lights the world for long."]}, {"id": "D13.19.36", "lines": ["Dismount, ask quarter of the Shah today,", "And cast your gorz and Roman helm away."]}, {"id": "D13.19.37", "lines": ["Then if, much later, some cold blast should spread", "Dark dust across the beauty of your head,"]}, {"id": "D13.19.38", "lines": ["The Shah’s own heart would burn for you in pain,", "The very sun would weep above the plain."]}, {"id": "D13.19.39", "lines": ["Sow not the seed of enmity through earth;", "Such strife does not befit a prince’s birth."]}, {"id": "D13.19.40", "lines": ["If you reject the counsel I provide,", "And trust your force, your arrogance, your pride,"]}, {"id": "D13.19.41", "lines": ["The warning of old Pirooz will remain,", "And all your counselors will speak in vain.”"]}, {"id": "D13.19.42", "lines": ["Nushzad replied, “Your words I now disdain;", "Seek me no quarter from the royal train."]}, {"id": "D13.19.43", "lines": ["These warriors are exalted men of fame;", "I am the Shah’s own son and bear his name."]}, {"id": "D13.19.44", "lines": ["The faith of Anooshirvan is none of mine;", "My heart inclines where Mother’s light shall shine."]}, {"id": "D13.19.45", "lines": ["She holds with steadfast heart to Christ’s own creed;", "I will not leave the faith she chose to heed."]}, {"id": "D13.19.46", "lines": ["Though Christ, its Founder, suffered death, God’s farr", "Still lit His face, exalted as a star."]}, {"id": "D13.19.47", "lines": ["That Holy One passed from this world to God;", "He found no glory in the dust He trod."]}, {"id": "D13.19.48", "lines": ["I may be slain, yet death I do not fear;", "For such a bane no nush-daru is near.”"]}, {"id": "D13.19.49", "lines": ["He answered old Pirooz in words of flame,", "Then veiled the air with shafts that thickly came."]}, {"id": "D13.19.50", "lines": ["The warriors advanced; the karnays cried,", "And battle-roars went up on every side."]}, {"id": "D13.19.51", "lines": ["Nushzad spurred on, a blaze amid the fight,", "Like Azargashasp’s fire in all its might."]}, {"id": "D13.19.52", "lines": ["He broke the left wing of the royal force,", "And none could stand against his headlong course."]}, {"id": "D13.19.53", "lines": ["He slew full many lions of the field,", "And forced the stoutest warriors there to yield."]}, {"id": "D13.19.54", "lines": ["Then Ram Barzin, grown wrathful, gave command", "To rain down arrows from Iran’s armed band."]}, {"id": "D13.19.55", "lines": ["They filled the air as springtime hailstones fall,", "And battle’s clamor thundered over all."]}, {"id": "D13.19.56", "lines": ["The din of war rose fiercely from each side,", "Where all the valiant soldiers clashed and died."]}, {"id": "D13.19.57", "lines": ["Nushzad was wounded in that bitter fray,", "Pirooz’s counsel haunted him that day."]}, {"id": "D13.19.58", "lines": ["In pain he reached the center of his line,", "An arrow pierced him; his face lost its shine."]}, {"id": "D13.19.59", "lines": ["He said then to the warriors of Rum,", "“To fight one’s sire brings shame and final doom."]}, {"id": "D13.19.60", "lines": ["To war against one’s father breeds despair;", "No noble heart should such a treason dare.”"]}, {"id": "D13.19.61", "lines": ["Bewailing, near the borderland of death,", "He called a bishop with his failing breath."]}, {"id": "D13.19.62", "lines": ["He told the bishop all within his heart,", "And charged him with the words he must impart."]}, {"id": "D13.19.63", "lines": ["“This darkened age has brought its wrongs to bear", "Through my own deeds, and left me in despair."]}, {"id": "D13.19.64", "lines": ["Now, since my head will pass beneath the dust,", "Send Mother a swift horseman she can trust."]}, {"id": "D13.19.65", "lines": ["Say this to her: ‘Nushzad has left this world;", "The scroll of right and wrong has now been furled."]}, {"id": "D13.19.66", "lines": ["I pray you, do not grieve at heart for me;", "Such is the world’s old law and its decree."]}, {"id": "D13.19.67", "lines": ["Since dark fate marked for me this final day,", "How could my heart find joy in mortal clay?"]}, {"id": "D13.19.68", "lines": ["All living creatures enter life to die;", "Grieve not for me, since mortal too am I."]}, {"id": "D13.19.69", "lines": ["It is not death that most torments your son,", "But my sire’s wrath for all that I have done."]}, {"id": "D13.19.70", "lines": ["Raise me no dakhmeh, set no royal throne,", "Nor waste long toil upon my flesh and bone."]}, {"id": "D13.19.71", "lines": ["Give me a Christian burial instead;", "Let Christian rites be spoken for the dead."]}, {"id": "D13.19.72", "lines": ["I need no camphor, musk, or fragrant store;", "An arrow struck me down; I am no more.’”"]}, {"id": "D13.19.73", "lines": ["He sealed his lips; thus Nushzad passed away,", "A noble, lion-hearted prince, that day."]}, {"id": "D13.19.74", "lines": ["When all his troops had heard their prince was slain,", "They broke and fled across the blood-soaked plain."]}, {"id": "D13.19.75", "lines": ["When Ram Barzin learned how Nushzad had died,", "He went in tears and knelt down at his side."]}, {"id": "D13.19.76", "lines": ["The troops ceased slaying on the field of fight,", "And neither cheered nor plundered in delight."]}, {"id": "D13.19.77", "lines": ["They saw the prince laid low in mortal woe,", "His royal name made dark by overthrow."]}, {"id": "D13.19.78", "lines": ["His head lay on a Roman bishop’s breast;", "The field with wailing gave the dead no rest."]}, {"id": "D13.19.79", "lines": ["Ram Barzin, troubled deeply by the sight,", "Asked what the prince had spoken in his plight."]}, {"id": "D13.19.80", "lines": ["“What were the prince’s wishes at the end?”", "He asked the bishop, speaking as a friend."]}, {"id": "D13.19.81", "lines": ["The bishop said, “None but his mother’s eye", "Must see his head exposed beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "D13.19.82", "lines": ["When wounded by the shaft, he gave command", "That royal rites and perfumes be all banned."]}, {"id": "D13.19.83", "lines": ["No coronet, no Roman brocade shown;", "He knew a slave’s dark lot was now his own."]}, {"id": "D13.19.84", "lines": ["His mother now will shroud him with due care,", "And lay him by the Christian rite and prayer."]}, {"id": "D13.19.85", "lines": ["His soul is one with Christ’s, beyond all pain,", "Though on no cross this wounded prince was slain.”"]}, {"id": "D13.19.86", "lines": ["Of all the Christians dwelling in that land,", "Not one but tore his face with grieving hand."]}, {"id": "D13.19.87", "lines": ["From all that country rose a keening wail;", "The men and women, round the bier, grew pale."]}, {"id": "D13.19.88", "lines": ["They raised that gallant prince’s lifeless frame,", "The Shah’s own heart and light, his grief and shame."]}, {"id": "D13.19.89", "lines": ["They bore his coffin onward, hand by hand,", "For three farsangs across the mourning land."]}, {"id": "D13.19.90", "lines": ["His mother heard; her crown fell to the ground;", "Unveiled she came, with grief and anguish bound."]}, {"id": "D13.19.91", "lines": ["A crowd assembled in the marketplace,", "All mourning with the dust upon each face."]}, {"id": "D13.19.92", "lines": ["They raised a tent to shield her from the crowd;", "Dust on their heads, the mourners wept aloud."]}, {"id": "D13.19.93", "lines": ["They laid him in the earth, bereft of breath;", "From wind he came and passed at last to death."]}, {"id": "D13.19.94", "lines": ["Gund-e-Shapur wept bitterly that day;", "The Shah’s heartache consumed them with dismay."]}, {"id": "D13.19.95", "lines": ["Why struggle in the bonds of greed and gain,", "When well you know you cannot long remain?"]}, {"id": "D13.19.96", "lines": ["Seek your escape; the world’s rose hides a bane.", "Do not breathe deep its scent, nor court its pain."]}, {"id": "D13.19.97", "lines": ["From faith and righteousness do not depart,", "Lest God’s own wrath descend upon your heart."]}, {"id": "D13.19.98", "lines": ["On hearing this, draw back your heart from grief;", "Feed not its fire, but let it find relief."]}, {"id": "D13.19.99", "lines": ["If you possess a cup, then drink your fill,", "And count it neither sin nor deed of ill."]}, {"id": "D13.19.100", "lines": ["Seek joy and mirth, but keep your senses clear;", "Let words of wisdom find a willing ear."]}, {"id": "D13.19.101", "lines": ["If love for Ali in your heart should stay,", "He pleads for you upon the Judgment Day."]}, {"id": "D13.19.102", "lines": ["Now may the world’s king prosper all his days,", "And keep these words in mind along his ways."]}, {"id": "D13.19.103", "lines": ["May Mahmud, king whose deeds are crowned with praise,", "Find lasting room in every heart that prays."]}, {"id": "D13.19.104", "lines": ["Love ever shines from his God-given farr;", "His crown upholds the heavens, star by star."]}, {"id": "D13.19.105", "lines": ["And when these words have reached his royal ear,", "May his good favor bring me comfort here."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.1", "lines": ["Now in Bozorgmehr’s tale we shall reveal", "A brighter face than grief and battle steel."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.2", "lines": ["Do not dismiss the visions of the night;", "They share in prophecy’s revealing light,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.3", "lines": ["Most of all when such visions come to kings,", "Whose lucid spirits touch on hidden things."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.4", "lines": ["The stars, the sky, and moon together share", "Their whispered secrets through the heavenly air."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.5", "lines": ["Clear souls in dreams behold the future plain,", "As fire is mirrored in a watery pane."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.6", "lines": ["One night wise Anooshirvan, spirit bright,", "Lay down to sleep and dreamed before the light."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.7", "lines": ["Before the throne a royal tree arose,", "And brought his heart a joy like springtime’s rose."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.8", "lines": ["The vision filled the monarch with delight;", "He called for wine and music at the sight."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.9", "lines": ["Yet on his throne of joy and peace there sat", "A sharp-tusked boar upon the royal mat."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.10", "lines": ["It drank from Anooshirvan’s cup the wine,", "And dared to share the monarch’s feast divine."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.11", "lines": ["When Taurus held the sun and larks sang clear,", "The Shah awoke disturbed by dream-born fear."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.12", "lines": ["They called the dream-interpreters to court,", "And nobles gathered to receive report."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.13", "lines": ["The Shah described the vision he had seen", "To Mobadan and counselors, all keen."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.14", "lines": ["No interpreter gave answer that day;", "No ancient lore could guide what he should say."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.15", "lines": ["Who owns his ignorance may stand excused;", "Yet Anooshirvan stayed deeply confused."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.16", "lines": ["The Shah, his sages silenced, sat and weighed", "What he should do, with eyes in care’s dark shade."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.17", "lines": ["He sent to every quarter mage on mage,", "Each keen and watchful, shrewd of heart, and sage."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.18", "lines": ["He gave each envoy silver for the quest,", "To find a man whose knowledge stood the test."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.19", "lines": ["Ten thousand silver coins each was to bear,", "To find the one who could the dream declare,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.20", "lines": ["Some man of understanding, some adept,", "Who knew the mysteries where secrets slept."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.21", "lines": ["The solver’s prize would be the silver hoard;", "The Shah would earn their thanks for that reward."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.22", "lines": ["So forth to search each veteran Mobad went,", "A prudent man on royal errand sent."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.23", "lines": ["One chief among them, Azad Sarv by name,", "Came into Marv to seek a sage of fame."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.24", "lines": ["He passed the town and saw a learned mage,", "Who taught the sacred book from page to page."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.25", "lines": ["With anger, harshness, and a lifted voice,", "He drilled the boys and gave them little choice."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.26", "lines": ["One pupil, well advanced in sacred lore,", "Was Bozorgmehr, intent to learn still more."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.27", "lines": ["He studied lovingly the sacred roll,", "With open mind and clear aspiring soul."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.28", "lines": ["Then Azad Sarv drew near and checked his rein,", "And asked who might the royal dream explain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.29", "lines": ["The teacher said, “This task is not for me;", "The Zand-Avesta guides what I can see."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.30", "lines": ["I teach these children, but I do not dare", "To speak of matters past my proper care.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.31", "lines": ["But Bozorgmehr, who heard the envoy ask,", "Spoke blushing: “Mine to answer is this task."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.32", "lines": ["Its hidden meaning I can make quite plain;", "Before the Shah, the truth I will explain.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.33", "lines": ["His teacher cried, “Have you your roll by heart?", "What pride has made you claim so high a part?"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.34", "lines": ["How dare you claim interpreter’s command", "Before you hold the sacred text in hand?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.35", "lines": ["“You read dreams well,” he mocked. “Your stomach’s need", "Has shaped the prophecies you claim to read.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.36", "lines": ["The envoy said, “O learned man, refrain;", "Perhaps this youth has skill within his brain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.37", "lines": ["His Fortune may have raised his inward sight", "Beyond the reach of all your learning’s light.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.38", "lines": ["The master, angry, cried, “Then speak your thought;", "Tell what you know and show the skill you brought.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.39", "lines": ["The youth replied, “I will not speak the thing", "Until I stand before the world’s great king.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.40", "lines": ["The envoy gave him money, horse, and gear,", "Provision for the road, and words of cheer."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.41", "lines": ["They left Marv’s gates in fellowship and glee,", "Like pheasants through rose-beds, proud and free."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.42", "lines": ["They spoke about the Shah, his crown and state,", "His power, farr, and Fortune high and great."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.43", "lines": ["When food and rest were due, they reached a place", "With water, trees, and shadow’s calm embrace."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.44", "lines": ["Beneath broad boughs, they left their mounts to eat,", "Then rested quietly in that retreat."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.45", "lines": ["While Bozorgmehr slept, sheltered by the bough,", "His mantle drawn across his face and brow,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.46", "lines": ["His noble guide, still wakeful, saw with dread", "A snake draw back the mantle from his head."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.47", "lines": ["It sniffed him closely, down from head to feet,", "Then climbed the tree and left the shaded seat."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.48", "lines": ["When that black serpent scaled the tree-stem high,", "The youth awoke and looked with troubled eye."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.49", "lines": ["The serpent saw him wake and start in fear,", "Then vanished through the shadowed branches near."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.50", "lines": ["The envoy, struck with wonder and with awe,", "Called down God’s name upon the youth he saw."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.51", "lines": ["He thought, “This wise young man will rise to fame;", "Great Fortune surely gathers round his name.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.52", "lines": ["They left the wood and reached the royal court;", "The envoy gave the monarch his report."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.53", "lines": ["He said, “May Fortune keep you young in reign,", "O Shah whose crown gives light to Iran’s plain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.54", "lines": ["I went from court to Marv and searched, as stalks", "A pheasant, stepping down the garden walks."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.55", "lines": ["Among the sages I have found a youth,", "And brought him here in haste to tell the truth.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.56", "lines": ["He told what Bozorgmehr had claimed, and how", "The serpent sniffed him and went up the bough."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.57", "lines": ["The great Shah called the youth and told the dream;", "He listened, pondering its hidden theme."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.58", "lines": ["He answered, “In your bower is concealed", "A youth in woman’s dress, not yet revealed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.59", "lines": ["Now put all strangers forth and clear the place;", "Let none observe the purpose of this case."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.60", "lines": ["Command your ladies all to pass your sight,", "With measured tread before the throne’s full light."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.61", "lines": ["Then I will ask that daring man to say", "How he entered the lion’s den that day.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.62", "lines": ["The Shah put strangers forth and closed the hall,", "Then called the women from their chambers all."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.63", "lines": ["They came in perfume, color, grace, and pride,", "And passed with modest steps before his side."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.64", "lines": ["Those jasmine-breathing beauties, fair to see,", "Passed by; no man among them seemed to be."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.65", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan, lion-like, enraged,", "Saw no proof yet of what the youth had gauged."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.66", "lines": ["The interpreter said, “This is not so;", "A hidden youth has passed me by, I know."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.67", "lines": ["Command them all to strip their faces bare,", "And let each woman pass beneath your stare.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.68", "lines": ["The Shah then bade his eunuchs bring the train", "Before his throne, their faces bare and plain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.69", "lines": ["They passed again; though all had mocked the dream,", "A hidden youth emerged within the stream."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.70", "lines": ["Cypress-tall, with a kingly form and face,", "He trembled like a willow in that place."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.71", "lines": ["Within the monarch’s bower could be seen", "Seventy girls, each noble as a queen."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.72", "lines": ["One ivory-cheeked girl in that fair train", "Was the Chakh-warden’s daughter from the plain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.73", "lines": ["That jasmine-faced and musk-perfumed young man", "Had loved her since their life at home began."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.74", "lines": ["Wherever she had gone, he followed still,", "And served her like a slave through love and will."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.75", "lines": ["The Shah asked her, “Who is this daring youth,", "Concealed within my bower against all truth?"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.76", "lines": ["Who is this youth, so cherished by my slave,", "Who came where only death rewards the brave?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.77", "lines": ["She said, “My younger brother stands with me;", "One mother, different fathers; such are we."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.78", "lines": ["No wrong has passed between us, Shah of might;", "He wore this dress from modesty and fright."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.79", "lines": ["He dared not raise his eyes to meet your face;", "Do not turn shame to cause for his disgrace.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.80", "lines": ["The Shah knew well her words were false and vain;", "Her empty claim increased his grief and pain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.81", "lines": ["He frowned in wrath upon the pair in shame,", "Then called the executioner by name."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.82", "lines": ["He said in wrath, “Let dust conceal the two”;", "They dragged them past the curtains, out of view."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.83", "lines": ["They hanged them in his bower by command,", "A warning to the people of the land."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.84", "lines": ["The Shah gave Bozorgmehr rich robes and steeds,", "With silver, awed by all his knowing deeds."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.85", "lines": ["They wrote his name upon the royal roll,", "A guide to Mobadan, in mind and soul."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.86", "lines": ["His fame grew bright; the turning heavens smiled,", "And Fortune favored this discerning child."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.87", "lines": ["Each day his fortune rose to greater height;", "The Shah watched all his progress with delight."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.88", "lines": ["His heart was filled with justice, thought, and art;", "The noble Shah was wise in mind and heart."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.89", "lines": ["At court he kept the Mobadan and sages,", "Men deeply versed in knowledge through the ages."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.90", "lines": ["Three score and ten, all eloquent and wise,", "Were lodged and fed beneath his watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.91", "lines": ["When justice, bounty, feasting, or the fight", "Did not demand his care from dawn till night,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.92", "lines": ["He questioned them and made their learning known,", "And decked his heart with wisdom from their own."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.93", "lines": ["Though Bozorgmehr was young, his speech was clear;", "In shrewdness and in beauty none came near."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.94", "lines": ["He learned from Mobadan, readers of skies,", "And all the learned men the Shah held wise."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.95", "lines": ["He passed beyond their learning and their fame,", "And none in starry knowledge matched his name."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.96", "lines": ["In healing arts his mastery stood apart,", "And statecraft too lay open to his heart."]}, {"id": "D13.20.1.97", "lines": ["Of manners, rule, and statecraft, all he knew", "He spoke with ready skill and insight true."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.1", "lines": ["One day the board was spread; the Shah decreed,", "“Let all the learned Mobadan proceed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.2", "lines": ["Bring men who question, eloquent and wise,", "The prudent, those who watch with searching eyes.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.3", "lines": ["The vigilant Mobadan came to dine", "With chiefs whose names for learning brightly shine."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.4", "lines": ["They feasted well, then called for wine and drank,", "Till lifted spirits rose through every rank."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.5", "lines": ["The prudent Shah addressed those men of lore:", "“Display the hidden knowledge in your store."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.6", "lines": ["Let each man here whose heart and mind can speak", "Disclose the wisdom that my ears now seek.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.7", "lines": ["The wise and bold, all masters of discourse,", "Let eloquence pour forth with learning’s force."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.8", "lines": ["Each sage in turn spoke as the Shah desired,", "While knowledge filled the hall and hearts were fired."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.9", "lines": ["When Bozorgmehr had heard their learned art,", "And saw the Shah held wisdom dear at heart,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.10", "lines": ["He rose, bowed low, and said, “O righteous king,", "May earth submit beneath your crown and ring."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.11", "lines": ["May heaven shine with Fortune’s light for you;", "Permit your slave to speak what he knows true."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.12", "lines": ["Though I am least in knowledge and in worth,", "I too will speak before the lord of earth."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.13", "lines": ["No wise man merits blame for words that bring", "His knowledge into view before the king.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.14", "lines": ["The monarch looked upon the youth and said,", "“What cause has knowledge to conceal its head?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.15", "lines": ["The youth at once displayed his learning’s light;", "His lucid speech made all the court grow bright."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.16", "lines": ["His eloquence and counsel held each heart;", "The Mobadan all marveled at his art."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.17", "lines": ["He praised Yazdan first, Lord above us all,", "Then spoke his counsel in the royal hall:"]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.18", "lines": ["“One whose clear mind is disciplined and well", "Says much in little, more than long tongues tell."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.19", "lines": ["The hasty-minded speak in ceaseless flow;", "Their understanding follows, weak and slow."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.20", "lines": ["When empty talk pours forth without an end,", "The speaker’s worth and standing both descend."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.21", "lines": ["Seek worth, not mere increase; both life and breath", "Are fleeting, and we journey toward death."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.22", "lines": ["If all our days endured and did not cease,", "The claimants to this world would much increase."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.23", "lines": ["To live humanely is the noblest art;", "In this, your knowledge plays no useless part."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.24", "lines": ["True knowledge of Yazdan gives right its base;", "To know, yet fear Him not, is a disgrace."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.25", "lines": ["Our inward light is owed to righteous ways;", "We weep for fraud and wrong and darkened days."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.26", "lines": ["Each heart is ruled by passions of its own;", "Each temperament by outward signs is known."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.27", "lines": ["Learn how each temperament directs the mind,", "And shape your conduct to the traits you find."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.28", "lines": ["Those foremost in affairs still seek for more,", "And labor onward through each open door."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.29", "lines": ["The wise man’s body lives on earth below;", "His heart is of the world to which we go."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.30", "lines": ["Vex not yourself for what cannot be gained;", "It wears the body and leaves spirit pained."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.31", "lines": ["The strong man acts directly, straight, and plain;", "From weakness spring deceit and falsehood’s stain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.32", "lines": ["When knowledge fails, no jewel can compare", "With silence, which is best for you to wear."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.33", "lines": ["But if your learning swells into conceit,", "Dispute will bring your wisdom to defeat."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.34", "lines": ["Rich is the man whom greed has never bound;", "Blessed is he whom craving does not hound."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.35", "lines": ["Forbearance is wise judgment’s brother still;", "And wisdom crowns the soul and guides the will."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.36", "lines": ["A wise man, though your foe, does you less ill", "Than any fool who bears you fond goodwill."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.37", "lines": ["The man content is rich in every part;", "He bars both greed and care from out his heart."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.38", "lines": ["Give ear to sages if you seek to learn,", "And for humility let your heart yearn."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.39", "lines": ["When counsel rules with mastery and skill,", "Men act with steadiness and steadfast will."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.40", "lines": ["Let him who lacks true knowledge wisely keep", "His tongue in silence, like a thing asleep."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.41", "lines": ["When wealth is yours, with silver, gold, and steeds,", "Shun stinginess and excess in your deeds."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.42", "lines": ["Choose moderation; let your constant guide", "Be rectitude, with justice at your side."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.43", "lines": ["The wise man keeps his enemies afar,", "And makes them servants underneath his star."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.44", "lines": ["Who gives his own self all that is its due", "Has won the fight; accept this judgment true."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.45", "lines": ["Speak no vain words; when empty phrases rise,", "They yield but smoke and sorrow to the wise."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.46", "lines": ["Do not pursue what cannot come to pass;", "No water serves to pierce an iron mass."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.47", "lines": ["A king, if learned, is humble all the same,", "Though knowledge makes him powerful in name."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.48", "lines": ["Who comprehends the handiwork of God", "Has crossed beyond where Fortune’s ills have trod."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.49", "lines": ["He serves God more, rejects the Div’s design,", "And keeps from acts where shame and sin combine."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.50", "lines": ["Afflict not those who should not suffer pain,", "But turn to God when final judgments reign."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.51", "lines": ["He is our Nourisher, our Fosterer still;", "All souls are guarded by His sovereign will.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.52", "lines": ["At Bozorgmehr’s fine speech, the sages all", "Grew fresh of face within the royal hall."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.53", "lines": ["The gathering marveled at his wisdom’s height,", "And at a youth whose greatness shone so bright."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.54", "lines": ["The great Shah marveled too at what he heard,", "And called his paymasters to hear his word."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.55", "lines": ["He bade them place his name first on the roll;", "Like sunlight, Fortune brightened all his soul."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.56", "lines": ["They rose before the Shah to bless the youth,", "Whose words had shown such wisdom and such truth."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.57", "lines": ["They questioned him on all that he had said,", "For wisdom filled his heart and ruled his head."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.58", "lines": ["The youth then loosed his tongue, pure-hearted, bright,", "And ardent-souled, he spoke with inward light:"]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.59", "lines": ["“We must not even inwardly depart", "From that just king who judges every heart."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.60", "lines": ["He is the shepherd, and his people sheep;", "We are the earth; his place is heaven’s deep."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.61", "lines": ["We must not break our loyalty or stray", "From his command, his ordinance, his way."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.62", "lines": ["When he rejoices, we should share his cheer,", "And render all his dues with hearts sincere."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.63", "lines": ["Spread through the world the Shah’s great name and worth,", "But keep his secrets guarded on the earth."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.64", "lines": ["Presume not on his favor or his place;", "Even lions shrink before the fire’s face."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.65", "lines": ["A mountain scorning what the Shah commands", "Is foolish-hearted, empty where it stands."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.66", "lines": ["Both good and evil from the monarch spring;", "Bonds, pits, and crowns and thrones come from the king."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.67", "lines": ["The crowned head bears the farr that God bestows,", "And from that farr the wise man’s gladness flows."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.68", "lines": ["Who takes no joy in this, in heart and mind,", "Serves Ahriman; to wisdom he is blind.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.69", "lines": ["They heard the youth, and weary hearts revived;", "And strength returned; their flagging spirits thrived."]}, {"id": "D13.20.2.70", "lines": ["With mouths and tongues all praising what they heard,", "That mighty gathering left upon his word."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.1", "lines": ["A week had passed; the king, with heart alight,", "Called sages in for counsel and insight."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.2", "lines": ["He set the world’s affairs aside that day,", "To hear what men of knowledge had to say."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.3", "lines": ["He summoned those deemed worthy of the court,", "Approved for learning and for wise report."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.4", "lines": ["They came, both youths and elders tried by age,", "With men of wisdom, learned page by page."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.5", "lines": ["Young Bozorgmehr came with that learned train,", "Exalted, clear of heart and bright of brain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.6", "lines": ["The sages gathered near the royal chair,", "And turned to Bozorgmehr, whose gifts were rare."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.7", "lines": ["Whenever the Shah beheld that gifted youth,", "His face grew bright, rejoicing in his truth."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.8", "lines": ["One of the wisest questioned him on fate:", "“What are its traits, and who ordained its state?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.9", "lines": ["He answered, “One may toil through every hour,", "And strive with all his wisdom, all his power,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.10", "lines": ["Yet find his livelihood a scanty flow,", "The water in his channel running slow."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.11", "lines": ["A fool may rest where fairest fortunes shone,", "While roses scatter round him newly blown."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.12", "lines": ["Such is the lot that Fortune may ordain;", "No toil can break the bounds of its domain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.13", "lines": ["The All-wise Lord, the Nourisher of men,", "Has shaped the star that moves beyond our ken.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.14", "lines": ["Another asked, “What man attains high place?", "In whom does greatness show its noble face?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.15", "lines": ["He said, “The man whose learning leads the way,", "Who puts it to good use from day to day.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.16", "lines": ["Another asked, “What virtues make men good?", "Who wins the world’s gifts as a noble should?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.17", "lines": ["He answered, “Gentleness and open hands,", "A generous heart that courtesy commands."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.18", "lines": ["The humble man who bows both head and heart,", "And gives, expecting nothing for his part."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.19", "lines": ["He toils, and by his labor proves his worth,", "And walks in fellowship upon the earth.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.20", "lines": ["Another asked, “What virtue marks the sage", "When quarrels flare and anger takes the stage?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.21", "lines": ["He answered, “He who sees his own faults clear,", "And mends the ways he once had held so dear.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.22", "lines": ["Another asked, “What makes a person’s way", "More bearable throughout the passing day?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.23", "lines": ["He answered, “When a patient wisdom glows,", "Then gladness through the inward chamber flows."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.24", "lines": ["Then one will give and take by honest scale,", "And bar the door where fraud and lies prevail."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.25", "lines": ["He pardons faults when power is in his hand,", "And does not let hot anger rule the land.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.26", "lines": ["Another asked, “Among the folk, what man", "Is best at self-command in life’s brief span?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.27", "lines": ["He said, “The man who lets no craving lead", "His heart away from any worthy deed,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.28", "lines": ["And he who will not falter at his task,", "Though bitter days still greater effort ask.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.29", "lines": ["Another said, “Is anything on earth", "More excellent than bounty joined with worth?"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.30", "lines": ["Whose deeds bear fruit in both worlds, rich and clear,", "As though two springs should blossom in one year?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.31", "lines": ["He answered, “One whose generous heart, when asked,", "Gives freely, with no selfish purpose masked."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.32", "lines": ["But he who makes the taker feel a debt", "Is trading for the thanks he hopes to get.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.33", "lines": ["One asked, “What ornaments become a man,", "And which is noblest in life’s measured span?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.34", "lines": ["He said, “Who gives to those deserving care", "Grows like a lofty cypress, fresh and fair."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.35", "lines": ["But one unworthy, though in musk he lies,", "Will never send sweet fragrance to the skies."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.36", "lines": ["No rose will blossom from a withered thorn;", "No fragrance from that barren wood is born.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.37", "lines": ["Another said, “Within this mortal life,", "No sage escapes its sorrow and its strife."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.38", "lines": ["How should we act to win a noble name,", "And start and end our lives with worthy fame?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.39", "lines": ["He answered, “Keep from sin; let all you see", "Be treated as you too would wish to be."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.40", "lines": ["What you dislike, impose on none below,", "Not on a faithful friend, nor on a foe.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.41", "lines": ["Another asked, “Of thought and strenuous deed,", "Which should we choose, and which should take the lead?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.42", "lines": ["He answered, “Thought is wisdom’s proper art;", "When work confronts you, toil with all your heart.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.43", "lines": ["“If some deserve our tears for deeds of blame,”", "Another asked, “who earns an honored name?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.44", "lines": ["He answered, “He whose heart holds evermore", "Hope, fear, and awe before God’s holy door.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.45", "lines": ["Another said, “O man of wisdom, say:", "Of all that heaven sends upon our way,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.46", "lines": ["Beneath this lofty canopy’s unrest,", "What destiny for me would be the best?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.47", "lines": ["That eloquent one answered, “He is blessed", "Who is secure and from all need at rest."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.48", "lines": ["Since Fortune has been just in what it gives,", "Let justice guide him all the days he lives.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.49", "lines": ["Another asked, “What knowledge should I gain", "To live in happiness and lessen pain?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.50", "lines": ["He answered, “Learn patience from the man", "Who scorns the insolent in life’s brief span,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.51", "lines": ["Whose mind is never stirred by anger’s heat,", "And pardons others’ faults with patience sweet.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.52", "lines": ["Another asked, “What man, O learned sage,", "Wins wise approval in each testing age?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.53", "lines": ["He said, “The man who nurtures wisdom’s light,", "And will not let misfortune cloud his sight."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.54", "lines": ["When dust receives the loved one he held fast,", "He will not bind his heart to sorrows past."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.55", "lines": ["He seeks no fruit upon a willow tree,", "Nor hopes for things that never come to be.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.56", "lines": ["Another asked, “What faults in kings are known,", "That make wise men lament, and grieve, and groan?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.57", "lines": ["He answered, “Wise men count four faults as clear:", "The first is fear when battle’s foe draws near."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.58", "lines": ["The second, grudging what his hands bestow;", "The third, spurning wise counsel near the foe."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.59", "lines": ["The fourth, a restless haste that will not cease,", "Nor grant his busy mind repose and peace.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.60", "lines": ["Another asked, “What man is free from blame?", "What flaws in noble men deserve that name?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.61", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr said, “I shall set these faults clear,", "With wisdom as my guide to judge them here."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.62", "lines": ["For men of rank, deceit and lies are shame;", "So is injustice practiced for acclaim."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.63", "lines": ["And worse, the violent man who lives in strife,", "Abusive, with contention filling life."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.64", "lines": ["A mind debased that longs to seize the helm,", "And needlessly the pious overwhelm.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.65", "lines": ["Another asked, “What traits preserve a man,", "And keep him safe through life’s uncertain span?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.66", "lines": ["He answered, “Truthful speech makes conduct sound;", "His counsels rest upon that solid ground."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.67", "lines": ["He shuns a shameless tongue, a brazen eye,", "Nor trades his gentle speech for an angry cry."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.68", "lines": ["Best is the sage who counts it foul and base", "To banish wisdom, giving passion place.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.69", "lines": ["Another sage inquired, “Who lives secure,", "And keeps his household safe, his purpose sure?"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.70", "lines": ["Who tends his life, benefits kin and friend,", "And brings his labors to a guarded end?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.71", "lines": ["He answered, “He who from the first has known", "The path to holy God and made it his own:"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.72", "lines": ["The Source of thanks, the Refuge and the Guide,", "Lord of the sun and moon, and all beside."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.73", "lines": ["He must obey the Shah with loyal heart,", "In public and in private, in each part."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.74", "lines": ["His body’s happiness must be his care;", "He must bar greed and all its bleak despair."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.75", "lines": ["He must care for his kin and feed the poor,", "And find his children teachers, wise and pure."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.76", "lines": ["The world must not be left to foolish hands;", "Its care requires a mind that understands."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.77", "lines": ["When sons accept instruction and obey,", "Their fathers should show kindness in their way.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.78", "lines": ["Another asked, “What place should good sons claim", "Within their father’s heart and honored name?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.79", "lines": ["He answered, “In his father’s loving eyes,", "A noble son is life beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.80", "lines": ["The father’s name abides when he is dead,", "Because the son says, ‘Thus my father led.’”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.81", "lines": ["Another asked, “What grace in wealth is seen,", "That it may make the heart more fair and clean?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.82", "lines": ["He said, “Men honor those whose coffers teem,", "And hold the needy man in low esteem."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.83", "lines": ["Much good attends on wealth; do not despise", "These gifts, for I speak plainly to the wise."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.84", "lines": ["First, wealth can bring the things your heart desires;", "Its use reveals the good your soul inspires."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.85", "lines": ["Next, hoarded wealth, kept hidden from the sun,", "Makes stone and royal jewels all as one.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.86", "lines": ["Another asked, “Among the kings renowned,", "With lofty crown and fame spread all around,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.87", "lines": ["Whom do you call the best?” The youth replied,", "“The king with whom the good can safe abide."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.88", "lines": ["The wicked quake to hear his voice resound;", "Beneath his rule the earth rests firm and sound.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.89", "lines": ["Another asked, “Who lives in wealth secure?", "And who must poverty’s distress endure?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.90", "lines": ["He said, “The man content with what God gives", "Is rich indeed and truly knows he lives."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.91", "lines": ["But when contentment fails before our need,", "No poverty weighs heavier than greed.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.92", "lines": ["The famous men sat wondering at each thought,", "And praised the answers Bozorgmehr had brought."]}, {"id": "D13.20.3.93", "lines": ["With one consent they lauded that young sage,", "Whose wisdom filled the court and crowned the age."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.1", "lines": ["A week had passed; the eighth day’s dawning light", "Found the triumphant Shah enthroned and bright."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.2", "lines": ["He summoned all the men of understanding,", "The wise and eloquent in courtly standing."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.3", "lines": ["They spoke at length, but none the Shah could please;", "He turned toward Bozorgmehr for wisdom’s keys."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.4", "lines": ["He said, “Lift up your modest face and speak;", "Let wisdom show the truth that sages seek.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.5", "lines": ["That fluent sage released his tongue with art,", "And showed the varied learning of his heart."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.6", "lines": ["He blessed the Shah and said, “May crown and head", "Be victorious while your foes know dread."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.7", "lines": ["None will become great in this world of strife,", "Unless he shuns the road of harm in life."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.8", "lines": ["If you would rise through knowledge into height,", "Let wisdom guide your words with ordered light."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.9", "lines": ["In quest of fame, a man must brave his age;", "The world rejects the faintheart from its stage."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.10", "lines": ["If you seek the throne, accomplishments must grow;", "A green bough should bear fruit in season’s flow."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.11", "lines": ["When asked what merit he can truly claim,", "Let no man answer with his lineage’s fame."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.12", "lines": ["For noble birth alone brings no acclaim;", "Without true merit, lineage sinks to shame."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.13", "lines": ["A wise man said about this very thing:", "‘If roses give no scent, praise not their spring."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.14", "lines": ["Speak not of color where no fragrance lies;", "No man seeks water where the fire will rise.’"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.15", "lines": ["A king is richer through his open hand,", "Not through the treasure hidden in his land."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.16", "lines": ["If you claim worth, let deeds support your claim;", "Let action give your spoken words their name."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.17", "lines": ["The man of wisdom bears a humble mind;", "And heaven feeds the wisdom there enshrined."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.18", "lines": ["The simple-hearted man is happy too,", "For he keeps far from all that is untrue."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.19", "lines": ["Here wisdom is a trusty tree that grows;", "The king’s heart seeks the bounty it bestows."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.20", "lines": ["Contentment brings the heart a life of ease;", "But greed brings fear that nothing can appease."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.21", "lines": ["Do not reproach a man with favors done;", "Such taunts may lose the good reward you won."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.22", "lines": ["Good Fortune favors those of open heart;", "Blessed is he who bears with patient art."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.23", "lines": ["If any man would rise, he must possess", "The means by which his labors win success."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.24", "lines": ["First, counsel joined to learning must appear;", "Second, ripe experience must be near."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.25", "lines": ["Third, friends must aid him when his deeds begin,", "And weigh all chances, loss and hope to win."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.26", "lines": ["They must be useful afterward in peace,", "And when the times of peril never cease."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.27", "lines": ["Fourth, rectitude and wisdom must be shown,", "To cleanse the heart where fraud and lies have grown."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.28", "lines": ["Fifth, if you have the strength, then work and strive;", "Through labor only does true greatness thrive."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.29", "lines": ["The strong, unless they labor, never gain", "The height of their desires through joy or pain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.30", "lines": ["Yet excessive toil will end in sorrow;", "Despair will cast its shadow on tomorrow."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.31", "lines": ["I will set forth five virtues of the sage,", "Which keep him safe through trouble’s testing age."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.32", "lines": ["I will tell seven faults the fool displays;", "No marvel if they vex him all his days."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.33", "lines": ["First, loss cannot consume the wise man’s mind;", "He grieves not for what he must leave behind."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.34", "lines": ["He does not count on what he has not gained;", "By hopes not met, his heart is never pained."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.35", "lines": ["He hopes not for the thing that cannot be,", "Nor says, ‘The willow-bough will fruit for me.’"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.36", "lines": ["When free from toil and sickness for a while,", "He guards against the thorns beneath Fate’s smile."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.37", "lines": ["Thus when time brings hardship to his door,", "He stands prepared and slackens nevermore."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.38", "lines": ["The fool’s way, as I said, is sevenfold:", "His wrath against the innocent is bold."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.39", "lines": ["His treasure opens to the worthless hand,", "Without reward or service in the land."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.40", "lines": ["Third, God receives no thanks for all His grace;", "The fool cannot discern his own true face."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.41", "lines": ["Fourth, he reveals his secrets to them all;", "Fifth, through foolish words he earns his fall."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.42", "lines": ["Sixth, he puts faith in those the wise mistrust,", "And seeks fine silk from thorns and desert dust."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.43", "lines": ["Last, he will lie when argument is raised,", "And hopes his insolence will be well praised."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.44", "lines": ["Know this, exalted sovereign of the land:", "From such a fool comes harm on every hand."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.45", "lines": ["A man who keeps his silence in the crowd", "Finds rest of heart while others speak aloud."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.46", "lines": ["By hearing one whose speech is wise and true,", "You feed the mind and give the heart clear view."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.47", "lines": ["Forget not words of wisdom you have known;", "For speech itself can crown the royal throne."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.48", "lines": ["If you would make your knowledge bear its fruit,", "Share wisdom’s jewel with those in its pursuit."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.49", "lines": ["If you would spread your fame, unsheathe your speech,", "And let your tongue extend its royal reach."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.50", "lines": ["But sit in council with the foolish kind,", "And baser counsel will subdue the mind."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.51", "lines": ["By knowledge soul and heart are both illumed;", "Seek not false ways where truth will be consumed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.52", "lines": ["When someone speaks, let patience rule your heart;", "Await his end before your own words start."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.53", "lines": ["You may gain wisdom from what speech has taught,", "And later speak the knowledge you have caught."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.54", "lines": ["Use not your wisdom as a road to gain,", "Though learning bring you hardship, toil, and pain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.55", "lines": ["Through learning, Fortune’s gifts may come to hand,", "And roads to ease lie open where you stand."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.56", "lines": ["When heart and tongue agree in truth and right,", "The door of loss is barred and sealed from sight."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.57", "lines": ["May Anooshirvan’s heart forever yearn", "For knowledge, never grow too weak to learn.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.58", "lines": ["A wise Mobad of subtle intellect", "Asked what good things a man should most respect:"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.59", "lines": ["“What gives a person luster in the world,", "And frees him from the troubles time has hurled?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.60", "lines": ["He said, “Whoever wisdom would attain", "Will bear in both worlds fruit that shall remain.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.61", "lines": ["“But if he has no wisdom?” asked the sage,", "“Since wisdom is God’s robe in every age?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.62", "lines": ["Said Bozorgmehr, “Then knowledge is the best;", "The learned are mighty where the mighty rest.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.63", "lines": ["“But if he never sought that stream,” one cried,", "“And never bathed the soul that lives inside?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.64", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr replied, “The warrior bold", "Must count his body cheap as common mold."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.65", "lines": ["If he strives bravely on the battle-day,", "And casts his foemen’s heads upon the clay,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.66", "lines": ["The king will hold him dear and grant him grace,", "With joy and power in an honored place.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.67", "lines": ["“But if one is not valiant,” said the sage,", "“Nor seeks for knowledge, law, or faith with age?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.68", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr replied, “It would be well", "If death’s dark helm upon his forehead fell.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.69", "lines": ["Another asked, “How shall we act to gain", "The fruit and shade of wisdom’s springtime plain?"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.70", "lines": ["How may we taste the fruit upon that tree,", "And walk beneath its shade from trouble free?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.71", "lines": ["Said Bozorgmehr, “The man who bars his tongue", "From evil words keeps soul and spirit young."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.72", "lines": ["He wounds no other heart with bitter speech;", "Thus peace with all the folk remains in reach."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.73", "lines": ["All troubles will be smoothed along his way;", "Both friend and foe will soften through his day.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.74", "lines": ["Another said, “The man who turns from ill", "Is great, and worthy of our honor still.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.75", "lines": ["Thus Bozorgmehr replied, “An evil deed", "Is like a tree that bears an evil seed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.76", "lines": ["If one speaks gently with a measured tongue,", "Few harsh replies against his ear are flung."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.77", "lines": ["For now the tongue is what most troubles men;", "If you would live at ease, weigh words again."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.78", "lines": ["The loyal man whose words are few and true", "Holds place before the throne, with honor due."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.79", "lines": ["Moreover he escapes the coming net,", "As beast or bird escapes the hunter’s threat."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.80", "lines": ["Though he has power to harm, he holds it bound;", "In such restraint true wisdom may be found."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.81", "lines": ["He spares the blameless, leaves misdeeds behind,", "And lets no good escape his watchful mind."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.82", "lines": ["He counts no future day as his to claim;", "He watches foes more keenly than wild game."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.83", "lines": ["He cleaves to friends like shaft and feather bound;", "In faithful union each with each is found."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.84", "lines": ["For any pleasure ending soon in grief,", "The wise man has scant trust in such relief."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.85", "lines": ["Put ease and indolence afar from you;", "Take pains, make toil a feast in all you do."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.86", "lines": ["Without true toil, no increase will appear;", "No treasure waits for sloth in any year."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.87", "lines": ["May this world flourish under this great king;", "May youthful Fortune round his kingship spring.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.88", "lines": ["They spoke at length upon this noble theme,", "And woke the drowsy hearts from clouded dream."]}, {"id": "D13.20.4.89", "lines": ["The sages blessed him, praised the Shah’s great ways,", "Then went rejoicing, filled with royal praise."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.1", "lines": ["Two weeks had passed; the Shah withdrew one day", "From army business, which he put away."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.2", "lines": ["He called the Mobadan, lords, and sages", "Who filled the palace, ranked by worth and ages."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.3", "lines": ["He asked of lineage and learning’s worth,", "Of wrath and calm, of justice on the earth."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.4", "lines": ["He asked of intellect, of Fortune’s gifts,", "Of kingship, and the way her favor shifts."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.5", "lines": ["He drew each learned man into debate,", "And laid before them doubts of heavy weight."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.6", "lines": ["Each spoke according to the wisdom won,", "Yet none could please the Shah when all was done."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.7", "lines": ["Then to Bozorgmehr he turned his face:", "“Bring out the jewel hidden in its place.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.8", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr praised him first, then answered low:", "“O king whose tranquil heart lets justice grow,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.9", "lines": ["No monarch like you lives beneath the sky,", "No crown has lifted royal fame so high."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.10", "lines": ["In justice, counsel, Fortune, throne, and might,", "No diadem has shone with purer light."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.11", "lines": ["How fair a pious king who reins desire,", "And keeps his heart as clean as temple fire."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.12", "lines": ["When judging, let him fear God’s searching sight,", "And let no pride or favor change that right."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.13", "lines": ["He makes sound wisdom rule his heart and blood", "When wrath would rise and swell in fiery flood."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.14", "lines": ["A monarch’s thoughts must never turn away", "From Him who judges all on Judgment Day."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.15", "lines": ["From God he knows both good and ill must flow,", "And seeks the garden where the righteous go."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.16", "lines": ["A truthful tongue and reverence bring fame,", "And make the world speak honor through his name."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.17", "lines": ["No work is better than a truthful deed;", "No finer jewel can serve a ruler’s need."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.18", "lines": ["Serene in speech, in judgment just and fair,", "He should give every rank its proper share."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.19", "lines": ["Let none who live within his jurisdiction", "Be ruined or subjected to affliction."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.20", "lines": ["While kings hold sages close, the crown grows bright;", "But fools drag royal honor out of sight."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.21", "lines": ["A king who learns from every branch of lore", "Preserves the royal farr he held before."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.22", "lines": ["Guard well the court and all its daily care,", "To thwart the ill that enemies prepare."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.23", "lines": ["Let none sleep wronged within the king’s domain,", "Lest one such grievance turn to royal pain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.24", "lines": ["The guilty man should meet the law’s stern blow", "Before his vice can lay the blameless low."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.25", "lines": ["Remove the base-born and the ill-disposed,", "Lest harmless lives be troubled and exposed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.26", "lines": ["All captives held within the royal gate,", "The guilty and the guiltless, wait on fate."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.27", "lines": ["Release them by the ordinance divine,", "As Zand-Avesta marks the sacred line."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.28", "lines": ["But if a man is black with crime and blame,", "Let earth find peace by blotting out his name."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.29", "lines": ["For while the wicked man is left alive,", "He ruins homes and makes disorder thrive."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.30", "lines": ["The Shah must cherish faith and what is right", "As long as he remains the realm’s high light."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.31", "lines": ["His public acts and all his private care", "Must purge the world of evil everywhere."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.32", "lines": ["The king who keeps his troops in firm control", "Will hear no suppliant’s grief from any soul."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.33", "lines": ["If on your foes you keep a wary eye,", "Their hostile schemes and hopes will fail and die."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.34", "lines": ["Man every breach before the battle comes;", "The foeman’s tabira on sleepers thrums."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.35", "lines": ["When blame is fastened on the Shah for wrong,", "His crown and throne are shamed before the throng."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.36", "lines": ["Increase the love you bear toward your son,", "Who mirrors your own face, the two made one."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.37", "lines": ["Teach him good sense and wisdom from the start,", "And seek to pour clear brightness through his heart."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.38", "lines": ["Unlock for him your stores in ample measure;", "Let him not grieve through want of royal treasure."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.39", "lines": ["And when he reaches out his hand toward wrong,", "Do not through harshness break a spirit strong."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.40", "lines": ["Recall him gently to the righteous way,", "And guard him from the first against decay."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.41", "lines": ["If in his heart a hostile seed takes root,", "Uproot it well before it bears its fruit."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.42", "lines": ["Pluck it at once from his secluded plot,", "Before its spreading roots engender rot."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.43", "lines": ["For if it stays, it gathers strength and power,", "And chokes the royal garden, flower by flower."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.44", "lines": ["A ruler blessed with wisdom will not hear", "Malicious tongues that whisper in his ear."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.45", "lines": ["Through crooked ministers and their corruption,", "Both crown and kingdom are led to destruction."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.46", "lines": ["Give no fool’s words a hearing or consent;", "Reject the wrong on which his mind is bent."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.47", "lines": ["Let righteousness be fully shown in you;", "Clear every crooked impulse from your view."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.48", "lines": ["The only ornament for kings is right;", "The Div instructs mankind in fraud and spite."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.49", "lines": ["When Shahs give heed to words from wisdom’s school,", "Their hearts will testify to reason’s rule."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.50", "lines": ["The crown shall bless the king throughout his reign,", "And empire stand like stone through storm and strain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.51", "lines": ["Both crown and throne are brighter than a jewel;", "His foes despair as Fortune turns cruel."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.52", "lines": ["Though turning heaven brings his reign’s decay,", "His worthy name outlives his mortal day."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.53", "lines": ["May Anooshirvan’s accomplished soul stay young", "As long as day has light and songs are sung.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.54", "lines": ["When Bozorgmehr had ended all his speech,", "The gathered sages found him past their reach."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.55", "lines": ["Their counsels, weighed beside his words that day,", "Seemed lamps grown pale beneath the morning ray."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.56", "lines": ["Anooshirvan heard; his spirit rose in light;", "His former greatness climbed to greater height."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.57", "lines": ["His eyes grew wet; he bade bright pearls be brought,", "And filled the sage’s mouth for what he taught."]}, {"id": "D13.20.5.58", "lines": ["The gathering’s lips were full of thanks and praise;", "Then all departed, blessing all his ways."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.1", "lines": ["Seven days had passed; the eighth arose in light,", "The world-bright sun came blazing out of night."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.2", "lines": ["It cast its lapis robe of darkness down,", "And dressed the world in gold from plain to town."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.3", "lines": ["The king of kings sat with his learned sages,", "Mobadan and chiefs renowned through ages."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.4", "lines": ["Came Ardeshir, the Mobadan’s high priest,", "And Shapur, bidden to the learned feast."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.5", "lines": ["Then Yazdegard the scribe was present too,", "With star-readers and scholars, wise and true."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.6", "lines": ["The wise, enlightened, eloquent in speech", "Were placed where royal farr could honor each."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.7", "lines": ["Young Bozorgmehr, accomplished and refined,", "Came with the fruits of wisdom in his mind."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.8", "lines": ["The Shah addressed the sages gathered near:", "“What strengthens God’s true Faith and keeps rule clear?"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.9", "lines": ["What guards the royal throne from harm and shame,", "And keeps the empire stainless in its name?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.10", "lines": ["The High Mobad among the chiefs arose,", "And loosed his tongue in counsel well composed:"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.11", "lines": ["“The justice of the Shah will make farr shine,", "And crown and throne will brighten by that sign."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.12", "lines": ["When he unlocks his treasury to the poor,", "His name will live, his memory endure."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.13", "lines": ["Second, let no false word pollute his tongue,", "Nor let him cheat to have his praises sung."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.14", "lines": ["Third, justice joined with mercy in his reign", "Will bring the world relief from toil and pain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.15", "lines": ["Fourth, when a guilty servant pleads his case,", "Let pardon answer his appeal for grace."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.16", "lines": ["And fifth, his words should make his fame increase,", "So in this world his name will never cease."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.17", "lines": ["He speaks the truth in every word he gives,", "And keeps his code of conduct while he lives."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.18", "lines": ["Sixth, let him love the servants of his throne", "As dearly as the Fortune he calls his own."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.19", "lines": ["Seventh, though learned, let his words be few,", "Though skilled to speak of all he ever knew."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.20", "lines": ["He spends his mind in thought and learning’s fire,", "And never lets his thirst for truth expire."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.21", "lines": ["Through wisdom men find freedom and may rise,", "As Fortune lifts the favored to the skies."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.22", "lines": ["Do not, O Shah, leave wisdom’s guarded way;", "It fosters noble fame till the last day."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.23", "lines": ["Base is the fool who boasts with haughty eyes", "That none can match him in the ranks of the wise.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.24", "lines": ["Then Yazdegard the scribe began to speak:", "“O Shah whom wisdom guides in all you seek,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.25", "lines": ["It ill befits a king to shed men’s blood,", "Or let small troubles swell into a flood."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.26", "lines": ["When judgment fails, the monarch’s will runs wild;", "He meddles rashly, heedless as a child."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.27", "lines": ["He quarrels with the learned and the wise,", "And ignorance casts darkness on his eyes."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.28", "lines": ["When greed has set the monarch’s heart aflame,", "The Div draws near and shares the work of shame."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.29", "lines": ["A judge whose temper governs every deed", "Will find his angry ways cannot succeed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.30", "lines": ["A warrior fearing death but not disgrace", "Is ill-equipped to take a fighter’s place."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.31", "lines": ["The wealthy man whose heart is mean and small", "Is fit for earth to cover over all."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.32", "lines": ["To browbeat one whose poverty is plain", "Befits no lord; his honor bears the stain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.33", "lines": ["A guileful elder earns both hate and shame;", "Beyond this life, his soul will burn in flame."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.34", "lines": ["When youth is slack in service and in deed,", "Then Fortune’s heart grows sick of such a seed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.35", "lines": ["His soul will keep no health, no youthful fire;", "May soul and tongue alike in him expire!”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.36", "lines": ["When Bozorgmehr had heard their counsel through,", "He clothed his thoughts in wisdom clear and true."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.37", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah whose face is like the sun,", "May shining heaven bless the course you run."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.38", "lines": ["Know this: the wise sustain their souls with thought;", "Their inner life is fed by what is taught."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.39", "lines": ["For fools the hearts of stone and mountain mourn,", "Who look on every other man with scorn."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.40", "lines": ["For none respects the man who cannot know", "Fame from disgrace, or where beginnings go."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.41", "lines": ["Ten kinds of men earn blame for what they do;", "The learned judge them more severely too:"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.42", "lines": ["The lying judge whom sages will not praise,", "Whose crooked sentence darkens all his days;"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.43", "lines": ["The chief who hoards his treasure, locked away;", "The soldier shirking hardship day by day;"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.44", "lines": ["The sage who knowingly commits a wrong", "To seize delight that cannot last for long;"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.45", "lines": ["The ailing healer; how can he restore", "Another’s health while sickness fills his door?"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.46", "lines": ["The poor man boasting of his meager store,", "Which hardly merits mention, nothing more;"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.47", "lines": ["The base man grudging others rest and sleep,", "Who would withhold clear water from the deep;"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.48", "lines": ["And if a pleasant breeze should reach your face,", "Would claim your thanks as giver of that grace;"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.49", "lines": ["A choleric sage who covets others’ gains,", "And one who counsels fools and wastes his pains,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.50", "lines": ["Or gives authority to idle hands;", "They lack all wisdom, spurning its commands."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.51", "lines": ["Those void of wisdom, who will not be taught,", "Will find their foolish words with sorrow fraught."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.52", "lines": ["My lord, the heart that cannot well discern", "Clings to desires that make its passions burn,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.53", "lines": ["As fire consumes the brimstone it is fed,", "Or turns to ash the stalks of a reed-bed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.6.54", "lines": ["Long live Anooshirvan’s heart; may every lord", "Serve him, the world’s great chiefs in one accord.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.1", "lines": ["The Shah allowed another week to pass,", "Then called the court to shine with gold and brass."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.2", "lines": ["He came and took his high and royal seat,", "His crown and girdle shining, all complete."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.3", "lines": ["The Mobad took his stand upon one flank,", "As vizier to the king, the first in rank."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.4", "lines": ["Upon the other Yazdegard was placed,", "The scribe whose records royal deeds embraced."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.5", "lines": ["Around them stood the other men of age,", "The chiefs, and Bozorgmehr, the speaking sage."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.6", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Why should jewels stay concealed,", "Those words by which the soul is fed and healed?"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.7", "lines": ["They raise the one whom no one prized before,", "And lift the lowly man to honor more."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.8", "lines": ["The speaker’s treasure suffers no decline,", "While listeners taste delight from wisdom’s wine.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.9", "lines": ["The Mobad turned to Bozorgmehr and said:", "“O man whose fame the turning heavens have spread,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.10", "lines": ["What thing, when more is taken, brings you harm,", "But less of it gives strength to flesh and arm?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.11", "lines": ["He answered, “Eating little guards the clay,", "And feeds the soul along the inward way."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.12", "lines": ["But multiply good deeds in all you do;", "Then you will leave your rival far from view.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.13", "lines": ["Then Yazdegard the scribe began to ask:", "“O eloquent mind, accomplished in your task,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.14", "lines": ["What are three faults concealed within the breast,", "Though none should keep such guests within his chest?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.15", "lines": ["He answered, “First, let fault-finding depart;", "Let no such habit settle in your heart."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.16", "lines": ["No man is free from faults that others find,", "In public deeds or in his hidden mind."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.17", "lines": ["Next, envy: when another’s honors grow,", "The envious heart is filled with bitter woe."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.18", "lines": ["The slanderer, a man of double face,", "Can raise from water dust and dark disgrace."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.19", "lines": ["Who speaks where speech is out of place will find", "His honor and his fortune left behind."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.20", "lines": ["Who will not hear a statement to its end", "Can neither judge its truth nor comprehend."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.21", "lines": ["The wise set no desire so high that they", "Burn hot with rage when it is kept away.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.22", "lines": ["The Mobad asked him then with solemn air:", "“O you whose knowledge none can match or share,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.23", "lines": ["No person in this world is free from need;", "Desire may hide, or show itself in deed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.24", "lines": ["If ways to satisfy desire appear,", "And power lies plainly ready, close, and near,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.25", "lines": ["Which road brings profit, honor, and release,", "And which brings travail, pain, and broken peace?”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.26", "lines": ["He answered, “There are two roads for the will;", "Choose one, and journey onward, good or ill."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.27", "lines": ["One road is rashness, full of loss and blame;", "The other wisdom, joined to righteous aim."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.28", "lines": ["On that road wisdom serves as guide and light,", "A truth beyond all questioning and night."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.29", "lines": ["A long and fearful road lies still ahead:", "The journey back to earth among the dead."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.30", "lines": ["God’s robe of honor rests upon the wise;", "Mark who is worthy in discerning eyes."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.31", "lines": ["No giant’s strength, if wisdom is denied,", "Is worth the smallest coin that kings provide."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.32", "lines": ["Without wise thought, life cannot rightly thrive;", "For wisdom keeps the living soul alive."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.33", "lines": ["The man who builds on knowledge, firm and well,", "Is fit for warfare and can hardship quell."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.34", "lines": ["Let knowledge first incline your heart to prayer,", "To Him whose being none can match or share."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.35", "lines": ["Through faith in Him the heart attains desire,", "And reaches all to which its hopes aspire."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.36", "lines": ["Another branch of knowledge teaches care", "In food and clothing, choosing fitting fare."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.37", "lines": ["Seek purity in garment, drink, and bread,", "Let God’s commands guide how your life is led."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.38", "lines": ["When need compels you, and you must be fed,", "Do not ask misers for their coin instead."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.39", "lines": ["Choose honest work whose name will not disgrace", "The worker’s honor or his household’s place."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.40", "lines": ["Make for yourself a friend among the great,", "Who aids you when misfortune seals the gate."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.41", "lines": ["In gatherings be silent, calm, and plain,", "If you would win approval without strain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.42", "lines": ["But if you speak, speak only what you know,", "What learning rooted in you long ago."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.43", "lines": ["Weigh out your words, not gold within your hold;", "To wisdom’s eye, mere hoarded wealth is cold."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.44", "lines": ["When speaking, let your tongue be keen and bright,", "Your shaft be speech, your bow be wisdom’s might."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.45", "lines": ["Do not act rashly when a battle nears;", "Guard well your body when the foe appears."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.46", "lines": ["And when he sets his battle-line for war,", "Keep self-command; let fear assail no more."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.47", "lines": ["When matched in strength, look in your rival’s face;", "Let no pale fear or weakness leave its trace."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.48", "lines": ["If you are prompt, the victory may be won;", "Delay destroys what courage has begun."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.49", "lines": ["Spur on your steed with care across the field;", "Watch well the weapons that your foe may wield."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.50", "lines": ["If he is eager, do not turn or yield;", "Choose prudent comrades as your guard and shield."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.51", "lines": ["But if you see he overmatches you,", "Have sense to leave the fight and pass from view."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.52", "lines": ["So tend your body also when you eat;", "Excessive food can turn to inward heat."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.53", "lines": ["Much eating harms; a little strengthens more,", "And leaves the body readier than before."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.54", "lines": ["Do not weigh down your board with heavy fare;", "Rise while some hunger lingers, and forbear."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.55", "lines": ["Use wine for ease and brief refreshment’s sake;", "The drunkard earns no praise when senses break."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.56", "lines": ["If you adore God, all the world commends;", "It sees you as its eye and best of friends."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.57", "lines": ["Let all your speech be of the Maker’s name,", "With adoration as its root and frame."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.58", "lines": ["Judge well the time for action and for rest;", "Let careful thought determine what is best."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.59", "lines": ["Choose moderation, as befits the wise,", "In making peace and when war’s storms arise."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.60", "lines": ["You are but wind and water mixed with dust;", "Forget not God, the holy and the just."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.61", "lines": ["Give worship no less care than daily bread;", "Renew yourself by ancient precepts led."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.62", "lines": ["Incline to good, and render thanks and praise", "For every gift, and trace it to God’s ways."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.63", "lines": ["Set lust below wise counsel and advice,", "Or wisdom leaves you to the grip of vice."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.64", "lines": ["Do not set out to practice wicked deeds;", "Adorn your wiser self with virtue’s seeds."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.65", "lines": ["Who acts with goodness, hidden and displayed,", "Will win the highest praise both worlds have paid."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.66", "lines": ["Teach your son well the calling of the scribe,", "That he may raise the standing of your tribe."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.67", "lines": ["And if you wish his labors to bear fruit,", "Turn not from those who teach the growing shoot."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.68", "lines": ["This art can raise a youth to claim a throne,", "And make the once unworthy Fortune’s own."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.69", "lines": ["Of all professions, none has higher worth;", "It raises even those of lowly birth."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.70", "lines": ["A ready scribe with judgment in his mind", "May sit where royal counsels are refined."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.71", "lines": ["He guards his body from the stress of pain,", "And boundless treasure from the Shah will gain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.72", "lines": ["When eloquence and fine handwriting meet,", "His thought makes every meaning more complete."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.73", "lines": ["He chooses shorter phrasing for his art,", "And writes the forms most pleasing to the heart."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.74", "lines": ["A scribe must first possess a learned mind,", "With patience, memory, and sense combined."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.75", "lines": ["He must know courtly custom, tact, and care,", "And keep his tongue from evil everywhere."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.76", "lines": ["Let knowledge, patience, truth adorn his speech;", "Let trust and piety be within his reach."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.77", "lines": ["Well favored too, when he attends the king,", "He earns a seat where royal counsels ring.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.78", "lines": ["When Anooshirvan heard the counsel through,", "His heart bloomed like a rose in springtime’s dew."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.79", "lines": ["He turned then to the High Mobad, and said:", "“Advance young Bozorgmehr, and lift his head."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.80", "lines": ["Bestow a robe of honor for his place,", "And silver worthy of his wisdom’s grace."]}, {"id": "D13.20.7.81", "lines": ["His wisdom has brought gladness to our breast;", "Reward him now as one among the best.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.1", "lines": ["A week went by; the sun renewed the day,", "Then Anooshirvan came in full array."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.2", "lines": ["He took his place upon the ivory seat,", "His crown and girdle made his state complete."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.3", "lines": ["Beside him sat the High Mobad and grandees,", "The shrewd and wise whose counsels sought to please."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.4", "lines": ["And Yazdegard the scribe was seated near,", "And keen-witted Bahman stood foremost here."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.5", "lines": ["The Shah then spoke to Bozorgmehr and said,", "“Adorn our hearts; reveal the path ahead."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.6", "lines": ["Speak truth of me in all that you declare;", "Seek no esteem through falsehood anywhere."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.7", "lines": ["How should men serve me faithfully and well,", "And heed the counsels that my judgments tell?"]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.8", "lines": ["Let all these nobles learn the counsel here,", "And tell their fellows what they come to hear."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.9", "lines": ["Do not dress words in color, scent, or art;", "Let naked counsel issue from the heart.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.10", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr, the shrewd one, answered so:", "“O king exalted over heaven’s glow,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.11", "lines": ["The sage has said that service to the king", "Is faith’s own path and honor’s sacred spring."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.12", "lines": ["The Shah’s commands should suffer no delay,", "For royal hearts must not be tried that way."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.13", "lines": ["Whoever stands as enemy to him", "Serves Ahriman within the spirit dim."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.14", "lines": ["The heart that does not love the monarch’s face", "Should lose both skin and brain for its disgrace."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.15", "lines": ["Know that the Shah is peace for all the earth;", "Do right, and he will raise your name in worth."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.16", "lines": ["Both good and ill are held within his hand,", "Yet he seeks no revenge across the land."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.17", "lines": ["Never desire his son to take his place;", "Hold dear as life itself the monarch’s face."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.18", "lines": ["Where kings are loved, no want can leave its scar;", "All ills are kept at bay by royal farr."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.19", "lines": ["His Fortune nurses virtue into bloom;", "His farr will guard you from approaching gloom."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.20", "lines": ["When God’s own farr is shining on a king,", "The world’s heart laughs with joy at everything."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.21", "lines": ["Since you partake of favor from his hand,", "Strive always to give ear to his command."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.22", "lines": ["If you grow faithless, even in your thought,", "That instant Fortune leaves what once it brought."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.23", "lines": ["If brought in close, let pride not cloud your mind;", "If kept afar, leave wrongful deeds behind."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.24", "lines": ["A servant toiling for the king will gain", "Both treasure and renown from loyal pain."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.25", "lines": ["Who serves and praises kings walks God’s own way;", "The godly honor monarchs while they pray."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.26", "lines": ["The servant must not weary of his part,", "Nor slacken in the fight with failing heart."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.27", "lines": ["He must conceal the counsel of the crown,", "Nor breathe it where the sun or moon looks down."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.28", "lines": ["Who shirks the service that the Shah decreed", "Wrongs his own self, and fails the crown in need."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.29", "lines": ["Accursed the barren tree whose leaves can bring", "No use or service to the reigning king."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.30", "lines": ["Speak no ill of his servants in his sight,", "Lest you diminish your own honor’s light."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.31", "lines": ["Great liars find no royal trust or grace;", "Each lie they tell adds to their own disgrace."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.32", "lines": ["Let no one utter in the royal hall", "Words lacking wisdom, weight, or truth at all."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.33", "lines": ["If questioned, do not tell him all you know;", "Through lengthy speech, your honor may sink low."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.34", "lines": ["There is more knowledge held beneath the sky", "Than ears can hear in places low or high."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.35", "lines": ["The man the monarch of the world disdains", "Will bear forever inward grief and pains."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.36", "lines": ["But he on whom the smiling Shah bestows", "His favor rises as his honor grows."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.37", "lines": ["If favor comes, let no presumption swell", "Your heart, though you have served him long and well."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.38", "lines": ["However long your service may extend,", "Know that his needs do not on you depend."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.39", "lines": ["If he should favor someone else one day,", "That man too may serve well in his own way."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.40", "lines": ["If royal anger falls on you in blame,", "Excuse yourself before it gathers flame."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.41", "lines": ["Not knowing why the royal wrath is roused,", "Lay bare the heart where all your thoughts are housed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.42", "lines": ["If anger at the king should cloud your heart,", "Do not approach him; break away, depart,"]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.43", "lines": ["Lest through God’s farr he look within your breast,", "And find the anger you have long suppressed."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.44", "lines": ["Thereafter you will gain no good from him,", "Nor hear his accents warm when love grows dim."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.45", "lines": ["Account the royal court a sea, and know", "Its servants sail where dangerous waters flow."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.46", "lines": ["Accomplishments are ships on that broad tide,", "While words are anchors, wit the sails that guide."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.47", "lines": ["The wise man voyaging upon that sea", "Lets prudence guide him where his course should be."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.48", "lines": ["He makes that sail his shelter and his care,", "His strength and shade wherever he may fare."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.49", "lines": ["The skilled but witless man should hold aloof,", "Nor seek a place beneath the palace roof."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.50", "lines": ["Though like a fiery mountain the Shah stood,", "His servants still would find their living good."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.51", "lines": ["For if that fire should burn in wrathful hours,", "It shines more brightly when contentment flowers."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.52", "lines": ["The Shah at times is milk and honey sweet,", "At times a biting bane that none should meet."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.53", "lines": ["The king’s affairs are like the boundless sea;", "The moon shines in the heavens by his decree."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.54", "lines": ["One takes from that sea only grains of sand,", "Another wins the pearl within his hand."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.55", "lines": ["May all the world thrive under this great king,", "With wisdom ripe and Fortune in its spring."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.56", "lines": ["He leads earth’s monarchs toward what is good,", "And decks the empire as a sovereign should.”"]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.57", "lines": ["The Shah gave Bozorgmehr a ready ear,", "His heart rejoiced to see that sage so near."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.58", "lines": ["The king would give his largess in this way,", "By measured word, and richly, day by day:"]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.59", "lines": ["For “Good!” four bags were granted at his call;", "For “Good! Very good!” came forty bags in all."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.60", "lines": ["The treasurer kept count of every share:", "Ten thousand silver coins each bag would bear."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.61", "lines": ["The king had said, “Good! Very good!” that day;", "His words prescribed the sum the vaults would pay."]}, {"id": "D13.20.8.62", "lines": ["The treasurer, with cheerful face and glad,", "Brought Bozorgmehr the forty bags he had."]}]}, {"id": "E1", "title": "The Story of Mahbud and Other Matters", "summary": "13 sections · 1,094 couplets", "path": "/poem/e1/", "couplets": [{"id": "E1.1.1", "lines": ["This matter closed, I turn my words to tell", "Of Mahbud, who had served the Shah so well."]}, {"id": "E1.1.2", "lines": ["Cease not from learning even for an hour,", "Nor let your knowledge feed the pride of power."]}, {"id": "E1.1.3", "lines": ["The moment you declare, “I thirst no more;", "Enough of knowledge lies within my store,”"]}, {"id": "E1.1.4", "lines": ["Then fate contrives a sudden, startling turn,", "And disciplines you till again you learn."]}, {"id": "E1.1.5", "lines": ["Now hear the tale a rustic minstrel sings,", "And mark the wisdom that his story brings."]}, {"id": "E1.1.6", "lines": ["No king, he said, upon the ivory throne", "Had matched the bounty Anooshirvan had shown."]}, {"id": "E1.1.7", "lines": ["He learned from scholars, seeking wisdom’s light,", "And let their knowledge make his spirit bright."]}, {"id": "E1.1.8", "lines": ["With Mobadan he sought the truth each day,", "And made their learning guide his heart and way."]}, {"id": "E1.1.9", "lines": ["These words I gathered from an ancient lay;", "I asked what passed in ages worn and gray."]}, {"id": "E1.1.10", "lines": ["He spoke of Anooshirvan’s ancient reign,", "And told the tale that memory could retain."]}, {"id": "E1.1.11", "lines": ["The Shah possessed a minister upright,", "A vigilant treasurer, wise and bright."]}, {"id": "E1.1.12", "lines": ["His counsel rested always on the true;", "Fair fame alone was what he would pursue."]}, {"id": "E1.1.13", "lines": ["This worthy man was Mahbud; all could see", "His heart and speech alike from evil free."]}, {"id": "E1.1.14", "lines": ["Two sons he had, as joyous as the spring,", "Who served with constant zeal before the king."]}, {"id": "E1.1.15", "lines": ["When war was planned, or barsom for the rite", "Was brought before the Shah within his sight,"]}, {"id": "E1.1.16", "lines": ["The Shah would eat no food except the fare", "That Mahbud furnished with devoted care."]}, {"id": "E1.1.17", "lines": ["He trusted both young sons to serve him well;", "The daily royal tasks to them befell."]}, {"id": "E1.1.18", "lines": ["His kitchen stood within Mahbud’s own hall;", "The Shah came as his guest before them all."]}, {"id": "E1.1.19", "lines": ["Mahbud’s two sons themselves would bear the meal", "And serve the king with diligence and zeal."]}, {"id": "E1.1.20", "lines": ["The nobles watched with envy at the court,", "And grief consumed them at Mahbud’s support."]}, {"id": "E1.1.21", "lines": ["Among the nobles Zarvan held high place,", "An aged chamberlain of rank and face."]}, {"id": "E1.1.22", "lines": ["In feast and council always he was found,", "Close by the king, in rank and might renowned."]}, {"id": "E1.1.23", "lines": ["Throughout the year his envious tears would run", "At Mahbud’s favor and each favored son."]}, {"id": "E1.1.24", "lines": ["He sought by every means to bend the king", "Against that faithful lord, and ruin bring."]}, {"id": "E1.1.25", "lines": ["Yet nowhere could he find a fault or deed", "On which to plant the slander he would breed."]}, {"id": "E1.1.26", "lines": ["And Mahbud, wise and innocent of guile,", "Suspected no concealed and deadly wile."]}, {"id": "E1.1.27", "lines": ["No word or action from that jealous man", "Had given him a cause to doubt his plan."]}, {"id": "E1.1.28", "lines": ["Thus Mahbud never knew a watchful foe", "Lurked close at court and planned to bring him low."]}, {"id": "E1.1.29", "lines": ["A Jew once came to old Zarvan for aid,", "And asked for money to pursue his trade."]}, {"id": "E1.1.30", "lines": ["He came and went; his influence slowly grew,", "Until the gloomy chamberlain he knew."]}, {"id": "E1.1.31", "lines": ["Through friendship with Zarvan he came to stand", "Among the servants at the Shah’s command."]}, {"id": "E1.1.32", "lines": ["One day their private conversation turned", "To court and king, and secret arts they learned;"]}, {"id": "E1.1.33", "lines": ["To magic, spells, and necromantic lore,", "Black arts and crooked ways they would explore."]}, {"id": "E1.1.34", "lines": ["Zarvan gave heed to all the Jew revealed,", "Then spoke of hatred he had long concealed:"]}, {"id": "E1.1.35", "lines": ["“Speak of this matter only when alone;", "No other man must learn what I have shown."]}, {"id": "E1.1.36", "lines": ["By sorcery let Mahbud die, and so", "Rid us of one whose power has come to grow"]}, {"id": "E1.1.37", "lines": ["So high, that soon he may command us all;", "He cares for none, however great or small."]}, {"id": "E1.1.38", "lines": ["To put it plainly, judging by his state,", "You might suppose Mahbud himself were great"]}, {"id": "E1.1.39", "lines": ["Anooshirvan, ruler of the land.", "The Shah takes food from none but his sons’ hand."]}, {"id": "E1.1.40", "lines": ["Through royal favor he has risen so", "That heaven seems to kiss his robe below.”"]}, {"id": "E1.1.41", "lines": ["The Jew replied, “Let this no longer weigh", "Upon your heart; your grief will pass away."]}, {"id": "E1.1.42", "lines": ["When next the Shah takes barsom for the rite,", "Observe what food is carried to his sight."]}, {"id": "E1.1.43", "lines": ["Look closely whether milk is borne within", "The dishes brought by Mahbud’s serving kin."]}, {"id": "E1.1.44", "lines": ["I need but see, from far away, their fare;", "My evil eye will poison what they bear."]}, {"id": "E1.1.45", "lines": ["Mahbud and both his sons shall cease to live;", "No earthly strength can any rescue give."]}, {"id": "E1.1.46", "lines": ["Though one were forged of brass or carved of stone,", "Whoever eats shall perish, flesh and bone.”"]}, {"id": "E1.1.47", "lines": ["Zarvan heard this, and joy replaced his rue;", "His heart grew light while gazing at the Jew."]}, {"id": "E1.1.48", "lines": ["Whenever to the court Zarvan would go,", "The Jew went too, and shared all he would know."]}, {"id": "E1.1.49", "lines": ["In secrets, feasts, and pleasures they were one;", "And so the season passed till it was done."]}, {"id": "E1.1.50", "lines": ["That evil teacher haunted now the court", "Where Mahbud’s sons each dawn would gladly resort."]}, {"id": "E1.1.51", "lines": ["Behind their noble father’s curtains stayed", "A pious woman, sound in judgments made."]}, {"id": "E1.1.52", "lines": ["Whenever Anooshirvan wished to dine,", "She spread a golden tray of rich design."]}, {"id": "E1.1.53", "lines": ["Three jeweled platters on its surface lay,", "A golden cloth concealed the whole array."]}, {"id": "E1.1.54", "lines": ["Then Mahbud’s two young sons would bear the fare", "Before the Shah with reverential care."]}, {"id": "E1.1.55", "lines": ["With milk in three bejeweled bowls each day,", "He ate, then went to rest without delay."]}, {"id": "E1.1.56", "lines": ["One day the brothers journeyed as before,", "And bore the tray toward the palace door."]}, {"id": "E1.1.57", "lines": ["A trusted servant bore it on his head,", "As was the custom when the king was fed."]}, {"id": "E1.1.58", "lines": ["Zarvan beheld them nearing the king’s gate,", "And smiling called the young men, “Stay and wait."]}, {"id": "E1.1.59", "lines": ["O faithful servants of the king, reveal", "For once the color of the royal meal."]}, {"id": "E1.1.60", "lines": ["Its fragrance reaches me; remove the fold,", "And let me see what lies beneath the gold.”"]}, {"id": "E1.1.61", "lines": ["The youths laid bare the dishes they conveyed;", "Zarvan stood back, and every one surveyed."]}, {"id": "E1.1.62", "lines": ["The Jew approached and likewise looked within,", "And marked the foods on which his craft would begin."]}, {"id": "E1.1.63", "lines": ["He said to old Zarvan, “The tree you sowed", "Has borne its fruit; the harvest now is owed.”"]}, {"id": "E1.1.64", "lines": ["The two young men, both vigilant and wise,", "Then bore the tray before the monarch’s eyes."]}, {"id": "E1.1.65", "lines": ["Old Zarvan followed, hard upon their track,", "As dust streams close behind a rider’s back."]}, {"id": "E1.1.66", "lines": ["Zarvan pressed forward to the Shah in haste;", "He warned the Shah: “Touch not this food nor taste."]}, {"id": "E1.1.67", "lines": ["Let someone taste it first; the cook has spread", "A deadly poison through the milk,” he said."]}, {"id": "E1.1.68", "lines": ["“May those who hate you drink this fatal fare,", "While you, great Shah, escape this deadly snare.”"]}, {"id": "E1.1.69", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan turned his searching eyes", "Upon the two young men in shocked surprise."]}, {"id": "E1.1.70", "lines": ["Their mother was the cook, a prudent dame,", "Devoted to her household and its name."]}, {"id": "E1.1.71", "lines": ["The brothers, innocent of any wrong,", "Quickly rolled back their sleeves and stood strong."]}, {"id": "E1.1.72", "lines": ["They tasted of the milk, both rich and sweet,", "Then fell down dead before the monarch’s feet."]}, {"id": "E1.1.73", "lines": ["Before the Shah they perished where they lay;", "Anooshirvan’s color drained away."]}, {"id": "E1.1.74", "lines": ["His cheeks grew yellow as fenugreek in bloom;", "Then wrath and grief together filled the room."]}, {"id": "E1.1.75", "lines": ["He cried, “Bring Mahbud’s mansion to the ground;", "Let not one wall remain where it is found."]}, {"id": "E1.1.76", "lines": ["Upon its dust strike off Mahbud’s own head,", "And let the cook beside him fall down dead.”"]}, {"id": "E1.1.77", "lines": ["Few in Mahbud’s household lived that day,", "And few among his kin escaped the fray."]}, {"id": "E1.1.78", "lines": ["The Shah gave all his treasure up for spoil,", "His wealth, his women, children, fruits of toil."]}, {"id": "E1.1.79", "lines": ["Thus old Zarvan attained the end he sought:", "His dark design had prospered as he thought."]}, {"id": "E1.1.80", "lines": ["The Jew grew dear to Zarvan, honored high,", "And raised his head in triumph to the sky."]}, {"id": "E1.1.81", "lines": ["Time passed; the heavens wheeled in endless round,", "And still the monarch’s eye no truth had found."]}, {"id": "E1.2.1", "lines": ["Much later, the Shah chose to hunt one day;", "His wolf-hunt steeds were mustered in array."]}, {"id": "E1.2.2", "lines": ["He watched the hunting horses passing by;", "Among their brands, one marking caught his eye."]}, {"id": "E1.2.3", "lines": ["Then on some Arab steeds Mahbud’s mark showed;", "The Shah’s cheeks flushed, and old affection glowed."]}, {"id": "E1.2.4", "lines": ["His heart still held remembrance of that man;", "He burned with grief as bitter thoughts began."]}, {"id": "E1.2.5", "lines": ["He wept, and pain consumed his troubled breast,", "Remembering Mahbud, once among the best:"]}, {"id": "E1.2.6", "lines": ["“How far the wicked Div led him astray,", "That man once wise and honored in his day!"]}, {"id": "E1.2.7", "lines": ["With such devotion and a heart so true,", "Why did his spirit choose the path to rue?"]}, {"id": "E1.2.8", "lines": ["Yazdan of all alone can pierce the guise", "And know what hidden truth beneath it lies.”"]}, {"id": "E1.2.9", "lines": ["He rode from there toward the hunting plain,", "His heart still scorched, his followers in his train."]}, {"id": "E1.2.10", "lines": ["He spoke along the road with men close by,", "And sought through talk to ease his grief thereby."]}, {"id": "E1.2.11", "lines": ["He brought musicians, singers skilled in song,", "Whose art made short the road that stretched along."]}, {"id": "E1.2.12", "lines": ["Before the Shah, the scribes and chief vizier", "Rode on with old Zarvan, who traveled near."]}, {"id": "E1.2.13", "lines": ["Their talk turned then to magic, spells, and charms,", "To witchcraft and Ahriman’s deadly harms."]}, {"id": "E1.2.14", "lines": ["The Shah addressed the Mobadan: “Take care;", "Let sorcery bring no trouble or despair."]}, {"id": "E1.2.15", "lines": ["Speak rather of God’s Faith and righteous way;", "Keep firm your thoughts, and never go astray."]}, {"id": "E1.2.16", "lines": ["Seek not for wonders in forbidden art,", "Nor let black magic captivate the heart.”"]}, {"id": "E1.2.17", "lines": ["Zarvan replied, “May you forever reign,", "And may your words give wisdom to the brain."]}, {"id": "E1.2.18", "lines": ["What men report of witchcraft may be true;", "Its deepest arts are known to just a few."]}, {"id": "E1.2.19", "lines": ["If milk is in the food, the skilled can still", "By one far glance transform it into ill.”"]}, {"id": "E1.2.20", "lines": ["At this, old memories pierced the monarch’s breast;", "Mahbud and both his sons denied him rest."]}, {"id": "E1.2.21", "lines": ["He looked at old Zarvan but nothing said,", "Then urged his prancing charger on ahead."]}, {"id": "E1.2.22", "lines": ["His thoughts grew dark, for well the Shah had known", "Zarvan as Mahbud’s enemy alone."]}, {"id": "E1.2.23", "lines": ["He thought, “What evil did this villain plan?", "My own command struck down that worthy man."]}, {"id": "E1.2.24", "lines": ["Would God Almighty make the matter clear,", "And grant my heart its peace, and still this fear."]}, {"id": "E1.2.25", "lines": ["I see this villain’s hand behind the crime,", "And grief comes flooding back from that dark time.”"]}, {"id": "E1.2.26", "lines": ["He journeyed on, consumed by grief and pain;", "His tears streamed down his burning cheeks like rain."]}, {"id": "E1.2.27", "lines": ["At stage’s end he halted by a stream,", "And pitched his royal camp beside its gleam."]}, {"id": "E1.2.28", "lines": ["When old Zarvan arrived within the tent,", "All strangers from the private space were sent."]}, {"id": "E1.2.29", "lines": ["The Shah spoke next of magic’s hidden skill,", "And how a glance at milk could work such ill."]}, {"id": "E1.2.30", "lines": ["“This tale intrigues me,” said the Shah, and then", "Asked how death came to Mahbud’s two young men."]}, {"id": "E1.2.31", "lines": ["Zarvan stood trembling, overcome with dread;", "The Shah perceived his guilt at once and said:"]}, {"id": "E1.2.32", "lines": ["“Tell me the truth; conceal no part through lies,", "Nor cloak your crime beneath a false disguise."]}, {"id": "E1.2.33", "lines": ["For knavery gives birth to evil deeds,", "And evil fellowship corrupts good seeds.”"]}, {"id": "E1.2.34", "lines": ["Zarvan confessed the secret from the start,", "But blamed the Jew for every wicked part."]}, {"id": "E1.2.35", "lines": ["He told the whole design and every snare,", "Then feigned deep grief and anguish in despair."]}, {"id": "E1.2.36", "lines": ["The great king heard, then put Zarvan in chains,", "And sent a rider swift across the plains."]}, {"id": "E1.2.37", "lines": ["He took two steeds and sped like smoke in flight,", "To bring the Jew before the monarch’s sight."]}, {"id": "E1.2.38", "lines": ["When that enchanter reached the royal hall,", "The Shah spoke mildly in the sight of all:"]}, {"id": "E1.2.39", "lines": ["“Tell me exactly how this deed was done;", "Speak truth, and hide no matter, not a one.”"]}, {"id": "E1.2.40", "lines": ["The Jew implored the king for safety first,", "Then bared the black-art secrets he had nursed."]}, {"id": "E1.2.41", "lines": ["Then all Zarvan had said he brought to light,", "Their secret counsel, hidden once from sight."]}, {"id": "E1.2.42", "lines": ["The Shah heard all, amazed, and sent to call", "The frontier lords and honored chieftains all,"]}, {"id": "E1.2.43", "lines": ["With high Mobadan learned in sacred lore,", "And probed the whole affair down to its core."]}, {"id": "E1.2.44", "lines": ["Before them all the evil-minded Jew", "Recounted all the plotting that he knew."]}, {"id": "E1.2.45", "lines": ["The Shah commanded: “Strip their skins away", "While both still draw their breath in mortal clay!"]}, {"id": "E1.2.46", "lines": ["Fill out their hides with pitch and oil and chaff,", "And hang them high, to make the army laugh;"]}, {"id": "E1.2.47", "lines": ["Upon the gibbet let them hang in view,", "Transfixed by every shaft the archers drew!”"]}, {"id": "E1.2.48", "lines": ["Walk not through life committing evil deeds;", "The evildoer reaps what evil breeds."]}, {"id": "E1.2.49", "lines": ["The Shah sought long for any of Mahbud’s kin,", "To learn if some had lived through that old sin."]}, {"id": "E1.2.50", "lines": ["One blameless daughter of his blood was found,", "With two young kinsmen, virtuous and sound."]}, {"id": "E1.2.51", "lines": ["To them he gave Zarvan’s entire estate,", "And all the Jew had gathered up to date."]}, {"id": "E1.2.52", "lines": ["Still for Mahbud his grieving spirit burned;", "All night he wept until the dawn returned."]}, {"id": "E1.2.53", "lines": ["His heart’s blood seemed to stain his grieving breast;", "He gave the poor rich gifts and sought no rest."]}, {"id": "E1.2.54", "lines": ["His tongue in prayer implored Yazdan to heed", "His plea for pardon for that wrongful deed."]}, {"id": "E1.2.55", "lines": ["He begged that God would not condemn his name", "As one unjust, deserving tyrant’s shame."]}, {"id": "E1.2.56", "lines": ["Who worships God and keeps a heart made pure", "Will take no part in evil and endure."]}, {"id": "E1.2.57", "lines": ["Though wicked deeds may readily be done,", "The heart will rue them when their course is run."]}, {"id": "E1.2.58", "lines": ["Though hard as flint your secret heart may be,", "In time its hidden truth is plain to see."]}, {"id": "E1.2.59", "lines": ["However low the voice in which you speak,", "Time brings concealed things forth for all to seek."]}, {"id": "E1.2.60", "lines": ["Do good in secret; let your deeds be kind,", "For secrets in this world no shelter find."]}, {"id": "E1.2.61", "lines": ["If heart and counsel both from wrong are freed,", "Both worlds will grant the portion of your deed."]}, {"id": "E1.3.1", "lines": ["The tale of Zarvan and the Jew is through;", "Now let the king receive his praises due."]}, {"id": "E1.3.2", "lines": ["Rule justly, king, and leave a name behind;", "Let later ages praise your upright mind."]}, {"id": "E1.3.3", "lines": ["No king, however mighty, from the tomb", "Receives more than a shroud and narrow room."]}, {"id": "E1.3.4", "lines": ["If righteousness adorns your heart today,", "Your praise will live when you have passed away."]}, {"id": "E1.3.5", "lines": ["When all the world acknowledged him as lord,", "He sought its praise, not pride, as his reward."]}, {"id": "E1.3.6", "lines": ["The people all lay down in tranquil peace;", "The wolf and sheep drank where all strife did cease."]}, {"id": "E1.3.7", "lines": ["The mighty served him, glad to bear his name", "Inscribed upon their crowns in lasting fame."]}, {"id": "E1.3.8", "lines": ["The neck knew respite from the mail-shirt’s chain;", "The fighting men cast off the martial strain."]}, {"id": "E1.3.9", "lines": ["No shoulder bore the weight of axe or blade;", "Through every court the sounds of pleasure played."]}, {"id": "E1.3.10", "lines": ["None strove against that monarch’s sovereign claim;", "The taxes and the tribute duly came."]}, {"id": "E1.3.11", "lines": ["He bore all toil with ease and loved the chase,", "The riding-ground, horses, the open space."]}, {"id": "E1.3.12", "lines": ["Within his gold-adorned and stately hall,", "He spoke wise counsel even after wine’s call."]}, {"id": "E1.3.13", "lines": ["He built a city in the style of Rum,", "Two farsangs broad, where gardens came to bloom."]}, {"id": "E1.3.14", "lines": ["A river flowed along the city’s side,", "With fields and meadows opposite, spread wide."]}, {"id": "E1.3.15", "lines": ["Within that city rose his royal seat,", "A palace where the king and court would meet."]}, {"id": "E1.3.16", "lines": ["Its vaults were worked in silver and in gold,", "With precious stones in patterns rich and bold."]}, {"id": "E1.3.17", "lines": ["He raised a dome of ebony and teak,", "With ivory worked, and hardwoods rare to seek;"]}, {"id": "E1.3.18", "lines": ["With elephant-bone inlaid, carved rich and high,", "To catch the light and dazzle every eye."]}, {"id": "E1.3.19", "lines": ["From Rum and Hind he summoned craftsmen skilled,", "Whose hands could shape whatever they had willed."]}, {"id": "E1.3.20", "lines": ["All those who learned their masters’ craft and art", "Were brought to work with skill of eye and heart."]}, {"id": "E1.3.21", "lines": ["The famous artists of Iran came too,", "With Nimruz craftsmen, masters tried and true."]}, {"id": "E1.3.22", "lines": ["He gathered them within that city’s bound,", "Where workshops rose as craftsmen gathered round."]}, {"id": "E1.3.23", "lines": ["The prisoners brought from Barbar and from Rum,", "He settled each and gave them house and room."]}, {"id": "E1.3.24", "lines": ["The Shah, the glory of the realm and crown,", "Made beauty flourish all throughout the town."]}, {"id": "E1.3.25", "lines": ["When it was finished, hamlets ringed it round;", "He gave it broad tracts of arable ground."]}, {"id": "E1.3.26", "lines": ["The soil was fruitful and the orchards swelled;", "New gardens flourished where the settlers dwelled."]}, {"id": "E1.3.27", "lines": ["The captives brought from Barbar and from Rum,", "From battle-lands now sunk in grief and gloom,"]}, {"id": "E1.3.28", "lines": ["He settled there, and granted each his place,", "To make that land a home of peace and grace."]}, {"id": "E1.3.29", "lines": ["To every man he gave a craft and place,", "And sent him help when hardship showed its face."]}, {"id": "E1.3.30", "lines": ["He furnished craftsmen, field hands, farming men,", "With land surveyors, skilled with line and pen."]}, {"id": "E1.3.31", "lines": ["With merchants, Mobad teachers, men of state,", "And common folk, he made the city great."]}, {"id": "E1.3.32", "lines": ["He decked that city as a paradise;", "No ugly corner met the gazer’s eyes."]}, {"id": "E1.3.33", "lines": ["He then called it Sursan, a joyful name,", "That spoke of feasts and all that monarchs claim;"]}, {"id": "E1.3.34", "lines": ["For in that sur the world-lord found delight,", "Where revelry and justice joined their might."]}, {"id": "E1.3.35", "lines": ["In public and in private, justice reigned;", "He sought the world’s well-being and all gained."]}, {"id": "E1.3.36", "lines": ["Time took him from his sovereignty and crown,", "And raised another as it cast him down."]}, {"id": "E1.3.37", "lines": ["This world is but a shifting, treacherous show;", "Man keeps no thing within it, high or low."]}, {"id": "E1.4.1", "lines": ["Hear how the Khan and Heytalians fought;", "Since battle nears, let gorz and shield be brought."]}, {"id": "E1.4.2", "lines": ["Thus spoke the rustic bard, that noble man:", "Keep well in mind the tale his words began."]}, {"id": "E1.4.3", "lines": ["Of chiefs with grace and justice, war and worth,", "Of treasure, power, and greatness upon earth,"]}, {"id": "E1.4.4", "lines": ["Save Anooshirvan, none of kingly strain", "Could match the Khan of Chin in his domain."]}, {"id": "E1.4.5", "lines": ["From that realm outward to the Jihun’s strand,", "All people bowed to him throughout the land."]}, {"id": "E1.4.6", "lines": ["That chief, with troops and treasure, crown and state,", "Was camped beyond Chakh, watchful, rich, and great."]}, {"id": "E1.4.7", "lines": ["Beside the Gulzaryun he held his reign,", "While tidings traveled over hill and plain."]}, {"id": "E1.4.8", "lines": ["Reports of Anooshirvan spread afar,", "His manhood, wisdom, grace, and royal star."]}, {"id": "E1.4.9", "lines": ["The Khan, a prudent man of settled mind,", "Desired the Shah’s alliance to be signed."]}, {"id": "E1.4.10", "lines": ["He sat among his counselors awhile;", "The men of name drew near in ordered file."]}, {"id": "E1.4.11", "lines": ["For friendship he sought counsel on the deed,", "And priests advised him how he should proceed."]}, {"id": "E1.4.12", "lines": ["He made rich presents, more than count could hold,", "All keepsakes worthy of a king in gold:"]}, {"id": "E1.4.13", "lines": ["Chargers from Chin, fine brocade and rings,", "With thrones and crowns and swords for mighty kings."]}, {"id": "E1.4.14", "lines": ["Five-score camel-loads he had prepared", "Of every treasure that his country shared."]}, {"id": "E1.4.15", "lines": ["He bade his treasurer bring from his hoard", "Full thirty thousand gold coins he had stored."]}, {"id": "E1.4.16", "lines": ["Ten camel-loads of silver, rich and rare,", "Drawn from the hoarded wealth within his care."]}, {"id": "E1.4.17", "lines": ["He chose a traveled man of eloquence,", "A chief of wisdom, bearing force and sense."]}, {"id": "E1.4.18", "lines": ["He called a scribe and gave him his command;", "The scribe set down the words his master planned."]}, {"id": "E1.4.19", "lines": ["On silk, according to his country’s way,", "The greetings to the Shah were spread that day."]}, {"id": "E1.4.20", "lines": ["Through Heytalian lands the envoy ran,", "Where shaft and battleaxe endangered man."]}, {"id": "E1.4.21", "lines": ["Before their ruler stood a battle-line", "From Sughd as far as Jihun’s broad confine."]}, {"id": "E1.4.22", "lines": ["Their ruler was brave Ghatfar, far renowned,", "The foremost warrior for his valor crowned."]}, {"id": "E1.4.23", "lines": ["When he had heard what deeds the Khan had done,", "And gifts prepared for Iran’s royal son,"]}, {"id": "E1.4.24", "lines": ["He called his veterans from the ranks to hear,", "And spoke at length of danger drawing near:"]}, {"id": "E1.4.25", "lines": ["“Misfortune has descended from the sky;", "If Chin and Iran forge a lasting tie,"]}, {"id": "E1.4.26", "lines": ["If Shah and Khan unite as trusted friends,", "Then danger closes on us from both ends."]}, {"id": "E1.4.27", "lines": ["Their friendship leaves our kingdom trapped and tied;", "We must strike first before they stand allied."]}, {"id": "E1.4.28", "lines": ["Ride out at once and intercept the train;", "Let not the envoy’s life or gifts remain.”"]}, {"id": "E1.4.29", "lines": ["He chose from all his troops a man of name,", "A chief whose courage matched his violent aim."]}, {"id": "E1.4.30", "lines": ["He bade him seize the camel-train entire,", "The laden beasts, the steeds in rich attire."]}, {"id": "E1.4.31", "lines": ["They slew the envoy; all his guards were killed,", "And every soldier’s hands with spoil were filled."]}, {"id": "E1.4.32", "lines": ["One horseman of the Chin troops fled away,", "And brought the Khan the tidings of that day."]}, {"id": "E1.4.33", "lines": ["When those dark tidings reached the Khan’s own ear,", "His heart burned hot with grief, his purpose clear."]}, {"id": "E1.4.34", "lines": ["From Kachar Bashi all his legions rode;", "No prince in Chin or far Khutan abode."]}, {"id": "E1.4.35", "lines": ["No scion sprung from Afrasiab’s line", "Or Arjasp’s house had rest, or sleep, or wine."]}, {"id": "E1.4.36", "lines": ["They marched toward the Gulzaryun in wrath,", "And vengeance drove them onward down the path."]}, {"id": "E1.4.37", "lines": ["Elanj, the vanguard’s captain, bold in fray,", "Whose fearless soul no battle could dismay,"]}, {"id": "E1.4.38", "lines": ["Raised dust that climbed to heaven as he came,", "To set the Heytalian border-lands aflame."]}, {"id": "E1.4.39", "lines": ["At Chakh the horsemen’s fury flamed and spread,", "And Gulzaryun’s waters turned rose-red."]}, {"id": "E1.4.40", "lines": ["Ghatfar then heard the Khan’s advance resound,", "And summoned all his warriors around."]}, {"id": "E1.4.41", "lines": ["From Shiknan came warriors to his side,", "With arms and wealth; his troops the sun could hide."]}, {"id": "E1.4.42", "lines": ["From Balkh and Amuy to Khatlan they came,", "From Tirmid and Visagard, men known by name."]}, {"id": "E1.4.43", "lines": ["From mountain-track and desert, hill and sand,", "They pressed like ants and locusts through the land."]}, {"id": "E1.4.44", "lines": ["The Khan’s troops crossed the river; on the plain,", "It seemed the sky poured swords instead of rain."]}, {"id": "E1.4.45", "lines": ["Through Maymargh and Nesaf his forces drew;", "The sun grew dim, the dust obscured the blue."]}, {"id": "E1.4.46", "lines": ["Bukhara bristled thick with spear and axe;", "There Ghatfar camped and planned his fierce attacks."]}, {"id": "E1.4.47", "lines": ["His warriors came armed and well arrayed,", "And every native chief his call obeyed."]}, {"id": "E1.4.48", "lines": ["The troops advanced from every side to war,", "Until the wind itself could pass no more."]}, {"id": "E1.4.49", "lines": ["With flashing swords and gorzes in the fray,", "Iron on iron rang through all the day."]}, {"id": "E1.4.50", "lines": ["The air itself was dense with flashing steel,", "As blades and axes made the tumult reel."]}, {"id": "E1.4.51", "lines": ["A wind arose; the army’s dust rose higher,", "And sun and moon withdrew from smoke and fire."]}, {"id": "E1.4.52", "lines": ["The men of Kashan and of Sughd stood near,", "And watched the battle, overwhelmed by fear."]}, {"id": "E1.4.53", "lines": ["The eyes of men and women filled with tears,", "And children trembled in their mortal fears."]}, {"id": "E1.4.54", "lines": ["They watched which side the circling moon and sun", "Would favor when the battle’s work was done."]}, {"id": "E1.4.55", "lines": ["For one full week the rival armies fought,", "And neither side could gain the ground it sought."]}, {"id": "E1.4.56", "lines": ["The slain on every side lay heaped in rows,", "The stones and dust grew red as redbud grows."]}, {"id": "E1.4.57", "lines": ["So thick were spear and gorz and axe and sword,", "That clouds seemed raining stones upon the horde."]}, {"id": "E1.4.58", "lines": ["The sun vanished in reek; dust filled the eyes", "Of eagles as they labored through the skies."]}, {"id": "E1.4.59", "lines": ["Upon the eighth day Ghatfar’s fortune failed;", "The world grew dark, as though by midnight veiled."]}, {"id": "E1.4.60", "lines": ["The Heytalians broke in lasting pain;", "For years the wound of battle would remain."]}, {"id": "E1.4.61", "lines": ["The wounded scattered; every march and plain", "Was crowded thick with captives and the slain."]}, {"id": "E1.4.62", "lines": ["The living called on God from heart and tongue,", "And spoke among themselves while terror clung:"]}, {"id": "E1.4.63", "lines": ["“Never have we beheld such stubborn fight;", "That force seems not of men to mortal sight."]}, {"id": "E1.4.64", "lines": ["With faces like wild beasts and Divs, they smite;", "They heed no warrior’s law of wrong and right."]}, {"id": "E1.4.65", "lines": ["They know not flight from scimitar or spear,", "Nor turn from gorz and sword through any fear."]}, {"id": "E1.4.66", "lines": ["They all have dragon-faces, claws like pards;", "Their spears could pierce the mountains’ stony guards."]}, {"id": "E1.4.67", "lines": ["Their steeds stay saddled, ready for the ride;", "They sleep with weapons lying at their side."]}, {"id": "E1.4.68", "lines": ["Their chargers feed on thorns; their riders wake,", "And raid throughout the night for battle’s sake."]}, {"id": "E1.4.69", "lines": ["They cast themselves into the flames of strife,", "And seem to know no need for food or life."]}, {"id": "E1.4.70", "lines": ["A Div alone could challenge them in fight;", "Against the Khan we have no matching might."]}, {"id": "E1.4.71", "lines": ["We must seek Iran, bow before its king;", "If Ghatfar is wise, he will do this thing."]}, {"id": "E1.4.72", "lines": ["He must submit to Iran’s king, and yield", "Our land to him, and lay aside his shield."]}, {"id": "E1.4.73", "lines": ["But if he will not carry out our will,", "Then choose a chief whose name is honored still,"]}, {"id": "E1.4.74", "lines": ["One sprung from high and honorable seed,", "Whom Anooshirvan will approve to lead:"]}, {"id": "E1.4.75", "lines": ["The lord who rules Chaghaniyan, just and brave,", "Whose prudent mind our broken realm may save."]}, {"id": "E1.4.76", "lines": ["Let him report the Khan’s deeds to Iran,", "And tell his tale to wise Anooshirvan."]}, {"id": "E1.4.77", "lines": ["The world praises Anooshirvan’s high state;", "His grace and wisdom shine with royal fate."]}, {"id": "E1.4.78", "lines": ["And wisdom is the cherisher of right;", "He humbled Caesar’s throne and broke his might.”"]}, {"id": "E1.4.79", "lines": ["The Heytalians, women, men, and young,", "Were joined as one, with every voice and tongue."]}, {"id": "E1.4.80", "lines": ["In Chaghaniyan dwelt a lord of worth,", "Young, wise, just, fortunate, of noble birth."]}, {"id": "E1.4.81", "lines": ["Faghanish was his name, a lord renowned,", "With troops and treasure gathered all around."]}, {"id": "E1.4.82", "lines": ["The chiefs and warriors, all of one accord,", "Called him to rule and raised him as their lord."]}, {"id": "E1.5.1", "lines": ["News of the mighty Khan, whose fame was great,", "Then reached the Shah from messengers of state."]}, {"id": "E1.5.2", "lines": ["He heard how Khan of Chin had won the fight,", "And broken all the Heytalians’ might."]}, {"id": "E1.5.3", "lines": ["He heard how Chaghaniyan’s king rose to reign,", "Whom fortune lately raised to high domain."]}, {"id": "E1.5.4", "lines": ["The Shah sat deep in thought, his heart distressed", "By words his wary emissaries expressed."]}, {"id": "E1.5.5", "lines": ["He had a hall prepared within the court,", "And summoned warriors of the nobler sort."]}, {"id": "E1.5.6", "lines": ["Then Ardeshir the priest and nobles came,", "With Yazdegard, the scribe of honored name."]}, {"id": "E1.5.7", "lines": ["Shapur came too, with counselors and sages,", "And men of rank from many posts and ages."]}, {"id": "E1.5.8", "lines": ["They met in council in the royal hall,", "And Anooshirvan told his grief to all:"]}, {"id": "E1.5.9", "lines": ["“O wise Mobadan, versed in rule and right,", "And ministers whose judgment lends me light,"]}, {"id": "E1.5.10", "lines": ["Unwelcome news has reached my heart and ear,", "Accounts at once injurious and severe."]}, {"id": "E1.5.11", "lines": ["I hear what Khan of Chin has lately done,", "With Turan’s marzbans gathered into one."]}, {"id": "E1.5.12", "lines": ["From Chakh, Chin, Turkistan, and Khutan’s ground", "They gathered troops that knew no count or bound."]}, {"id": "E1.5.13", "lines": ["For one whole week they wore their helms in fight,", "With vengeful blades, nor rested day or night."]}, {"id": "E1.5.14", "lines": ["The Heytalian army broke beneath the strain;", "Two-thirds were wounded, taken, or lay slain."]}, {"id": "E1.5.15", "lines": ["That people lived by gorz and battle-spear;", "No other race in war could be their peer."]}, {"id": "E1.5.16", "lines": ["It is a marvel they were worsted so;", "It came from a foolish sepahbod’s blow."]}, {"id": "E1.5.17", "lines": ["Had Ghatfar led with judgment in the fray,", "His army would not have been swept away."]}, {"id": "E1.5.18", "lines": ["Their land, now leaderless by war’s design,", "Has sought a prince from Bahram Goor’s own line."]}, {"id": "E1.5.19", "lines": ["They placed him on the throne to rule and reign,", "And all bowed down to serve his royal train."]}, {"id": "E1.5.20", "lines": ["The Khan is camped by Chakh in royal state,", "With crown and troops and treasure, proud and great."]}, {"id": "E1.5.21", "lines": ["From Afrasiab and Arjasp he came,", "And dreams of Iran with ambitious flame."]}, {"id": "E1.5.22", "lines": ["His triumph over brave Ghatfar’s array", "Has raised his head in pride above the fray."]}, {"id": "E1.5.23", "lines": ["We must not let the Khan proclaim his fame,", "As though we gave approval to his claim."]}, {"id": "E1.5.24", "lines": ["To Chakh and Kasan stretches my domain;", "Yet Chin grows bold across that border plain."]}, {"id": "E1.5.25", "lines": ["Our subjects bow beneath them and must yield", "Their lives, their lands, and harvests from the field."]}, {"id": "E1.5.26", "lines": ["What are your views? How shall we set our course", "To deal with Chin’s Khan and the Turkish force?”"]}, {"id": "E1.5.27", "lines": ["The prudent nobles rose to make reply,", "First praising him whose fortune climbed the sky."]}, {"id": "E1.5.28", "lines": ["“O prescient Shah, victorious and wise,", "Whose farr and insight guide all human eyes,"]}, {"id": "E1.5.29", "lines": ["The Heytalian realm now serves evil’s cause;", "Its people live by treachery, not laws."]}, {"id": "E1.5.30", "lines": ["They merit every ill that they may get,", "Though you speak justly of their danger yet."]}, {"id": "E1.5.31", "lines": ["Had we no grievance, nothing to repay", "Save Pirooz’s blood they shed upon that day,"]}, {"id": "E1.5.32", "lines": ["That noble king, the luster of the world,", "By them was slain, from fortune’s summit hurled,"]}, {"id": "E1.5.33", "lines": ["They should not know one joyful day of breath;", "Their evil path leads only on to death."]}, {"id": "E1.5.34", "lines": ["Such is God’s recompense for evil ways:", "Ill falls on evildoers all their days."]}, {"id": "E1.5.35", "lines": ["Now, if the Shah regards the Khan with dread,", "As one whom ancient grievances have led,"]}, {"id": "E1.5.36", "lines": ["Perhaps bad counselors have stirred his hate,", "Grieved heirs of Afrasiab’s fallen state."]}, {"id": "E1.5.37", "lines": ["Success may also have enlarged his pride;", "No wonder caution stands now at your side."]}, {"id": "E1.5.38", "lines": ["As for Ghatfar and Heytalian might,", "Let neither trouble your discerning sight."]}, {"id": "E1.5.39", "lines": ["Direct your caution toward Afrasiab’s line,", "And Arjasp’s heirs now joined in his design."]}, {"id": "E1.5.40", "lines": ["Think of the Khan beyond the river’s tide,", "With all his warriors and his swelling pride."]}, {"id": "E1.5.41", "lines": ["You are the world’s exalted king and light;", "From you come wisdom, counsel, and insight."]}, {"id": "E1.5.42", "lines": ["Blessed is he whom wisdom makes secure;", "His fame and inward strength alike endure."]}, {"id": "E1.5.43", "lines": ["You are the wisest in this gathered court;", "You need no sage, no counselor’s support."]}, {"id": "E1.5.44", "lines": ["The crown and throne become you above all;", "Divine farr guards your fortune from a fall."]}, {"id": "E1.5.45", "lines": ["Still, if the Shah should go to Khorasan,", "We shall have cause to tremble for Iran."]}, {"id": "E1.5.46", "lines": ["For Roman legions may return one day", "To wage fresh war when you are far away."]}, {"id": "E1.5.47", "lines": ["They may avenge themselves on Iran’s ground,", "And leave no field or mountain pasture sound."]}, {"id": "E1.5.48", "lines": ["As yet no foe has set foot on our land,", "Nor raised in hostile thought a threatening hand."]}, {"id": "E1.5.49", "lines": ["Yet if the Shah displays his will to fight,", "The river’s own nahangs will freeze in fright.”"]}, {"id": "E1.5.50", "lines": ["The master of the world heard peace and war,", "And understood what all their counsels bore."]}, {"id": "E1.5.51", "lines": ["He knew those sages had no will for strife,", "Preferring feasts, repose, and easy life."]}, {"id": "E1.5.52", "lines": ["He answered, “Praise to God whom I revere", "In both worlds, God whose judgment I hold dear,"]}, {"id": "E1.5.53", "lines": ["That quiet sleep and banquets without end", "Have made Iran forget how to defend."]}, {"id": "E1.5.54", "lines": ["Preferring banquets and the peaceful hall,", "You have grown careless of the karnay’s call."]}, {"id": "E1.5.55", "lines": ["Yet ease should follow toil when war is done,", "And treasure crown the victories we have won."]}, {"id": "E1.5.56", "lines": ["So, in God’s strength, when this month’s days have passed,", "We shall prepare to raise our banners fast."]}, {"id": "E1.5.57", "lines": ["To Khorasan I will lead the array,", "And summon every province on the way."]}, {"id": "E1.5.58", "lines": ["Warriors and chiefs of name shall gather round;", "From elephants the tabiras shall sound."]}, {"id": "E1.5.59", "lines": ["Heytalian and Khan I both shall quell,", "Nor let them boast that on Iran’s soil they dwell."]}, {"id": "E1.5.60", "lines": ["I will weed out the wicked from the earth,", "And through my justice give the realm new birth."]}, {"id": "E1.5.61", "lines": ["By largess and by justice, both displayed,", "I will renew the realm my sires have made.”"]}, {"id": "E1.5.62", "lines": ["The nobles marveled, praised him, then replied,", "And made excuses, heads bowed at his side:"]}, {"id": "E1.5.63", "lines": ["“Triumphant Shah, with farr and justice crowned,", "May all this age rejoice where you are found."]}, {"id": "E1.5.64", "lines": ["We chiefs are servants, bowing at your feet,", "And hold your counsel as command complete."]}, {"id": "E1.5.65", "lines": ["When you command us into war to ride,", "You will not find us wanting at your side.”"]}, {"id": "E1.5.66", "lines": ["The Shah and all his counselors would pore", "Upon each path that led the realm to war."]}, {"id": "E1.5.67", "lines": ["Thus matters stood until the new moon rose,", "And sat enthroned in splendor’s bright repose."]}, {"id": "E1.5.68", "lines": ["They saw the moon upon the Shah’s own face,", "And acclamations filled the royal place."]}, {"id": "E1.5.69", "lines": ["When the bright lamp rose over mountain-height,", "The earth became a golden saddle bright."]}, {"id": "E1.5.70", "lines": ["A ruby cup seemed set before the eyes", "Upon a lapis cloth across the skies."]}, {"id": "E1.5.71", "lines": ["A shout and karnay-blare rose to the sky;", "The kousts on elephants were lifted high."]}, {"id": "E1.5.72", "lines": ["The soldiers moved to camp in ordered bands,", "With tymbal-players marching through the lands."]}, {"id": "E1.5.73", "lines": ["Then Yazdegard returned to court to sit", "With Ardeshir and priests of sacred writ."]}, {"id": "E1.5.74", "lines": ["They wrote to every chief throughout the land:", "“The Shah has marched; let revels now be banned."]}, {"id": "E1.5.75", "lines": ["In loyalty, set feasting now aside,", "While he goes forth with armies at his side.”"]}, {"id": "E1.5.76", "lines": ["A letter to the Khan he then decreed,", "And praised Faghanish for his noble deed;"]}, {"id": "E1.5.77", "lines": ["He blessed the new-crowned king in his domain,", "His gathered troops, and all his martial train."]}, {"id": "E1.5.78", "lines": ["From Madain marched a vast and mighty band;", "It seemed that troops filled every stretch of land."]}, {"id": "E1.5.79", "lines": ["From mountain range to mountain stretched the lines,", "With royal banners bright with their designs."]}, {"id": "E1.5.80", "lines": ["At center flew the Shah’s great banner high,", "While marching dust rose thick and veiled the sky."]}, {"id": "E1.5.81", "lines": ["Toward Gorgan moved the army in its might,", "Until the sun itself seemed veiled from sight."]}, {"id": "E1.5.82", "lines": ["He halted there awhile by hill and plain,", "Then rode to hunt across the open terrain."]}, {"id": "E1.6.1", "lines": ["At Gorgan, Shah and troops in council met;", "At Sughd, the Khan remained on warfare set."]}, {"id": "E1.6.2", "lines": ["That land was like a sea, both deep and wide,", "There Arjasp’s kin and Afrasiab’s would ride."]}, {"id": "E1.6.3", "lines": ["The Khan said, “Earth can scarcely bear my might,", "My throne, my crown, my troops arrayed for fight."]}, {"id": "E1.6.4", "lines": ["Against Iran I shall lead my mounted band,", "And bring my spearmen out across the land."]}, {"id": "E1.6.5", "lines": ["To Chin I shall bear Iran’s dust away,", "And bring the Arabs ruin in the fray."]}, {"id": "E1.6.6", "lines": ["I shall allow no man on earth to claim", "Crown, throne, or kingship, dignity, or fame.”"]}, {"id": "E1.6.7", "lines": ["Such words he spoke, his heart with pride imbued,", "And sought through war to see the world subdued."]}, {"id": "E1.6.8", "lines": ["Then news arrived: the Shah had marched away,", "From Iran with his army in array."]}, {"id": "E1.6.9", "lines": ["He heard about the Shah’s success and might,", "And how his army filled the world with fright."]}, {"id": "E1.6.10", "lines": ["His ranks, they said, stretched outward without cease;", "The Khan heard this and lost his inward peace."]}, {"id": "E1.6.11", "lines": ["His planned inroad was checked by that report;", "He sat in anxious council at his court."]}, {"id": "E1.6.12", "lines": ["The army’s great men gathered to his side,", "And to his minister he spoke in pride:"]}, {"id": "E1.6.13", "lines": ["“We cannot close our eyes to what we hear;", "This matter calls for judgment, sharp and clear."]}, {"id": "E1.6.14", "lines": ["They say the Shah has reached Gorgan, his vast", "Battalions through the country spreading fast."]}, {"id": "E1.6.15", "lines": ["In truth, he knows no measure of our fame,", "Or witless pride has set his head aflame."]}, {"id": "E1.6.16", "lines": ["My army spreads from Chin to Jihun’s tide;", "Beneath my crown the whole world must abide."]}, {"id": "E1.6.17", "lines": ["I must confront him now in open fight;", "Delay will dim my name and glory’s light."]}, {"id": "E1.6.18", "lines": ["He thinks the reach of kingship ends with him,", "And every other royal light is dim."]}, {"id": "E1.6.19", "lines": ["Now he shall learn the force that Chin can wield,", "When all my horsemen meet him on the field.”"]}, {"id": "E1.6.20", "lines": ["A wise man then addressed the Khan and said,", "“O monarch, let no thought of war be bred."]}, {"id": "E1.6.21", "lines": ["Do not confront the Shah or cast away", "Your realm and troops to serve as battle’s prey."]}, {"id": "E1.6.22", "lines": ["No king whose heart and counsel guide him right", "Would seek the Shah’s own throne or dare his might."]}, {"id": "E1.6.23", "lines": ["No monarch has his grace, his star, his sheen;", "No moon in heaven wears a light so keen."]}, {"id": "E1.6.24", "lines": ["He claims his tribute both from Hind and Rum,", "Where wealth and settled peoples thrive and bloom."]}, {"id": "E1.6.25", "lines": ["He holds the crown and throne in sovereign right;", "A watchful ruler, blessed with fortune’s light.”"]}, {"id": "E1.6.26", "lines": ["The Khan, on hearing, chose the wiser way,", "And asked his shrewd adviser what to say:"]}, {"id": "E1.6.27", "lines": ["“How does this matter look before the wise?", "Two hard alternatives before us rise."]}, {"id": "E1.6.28", "lines": ["We cannot shun the choice so plainly set,", "Nor wrap it up in silence and forget."]}, {"id": "E1.6.29", "lines": ["If war with him is toil and nothing more,", "Then spending treasure opens peace’s door."]}, {"id": "E1.6.30", "lines": ["Gold is no food, no garment for the cold,", "No carpet that our hands can spread and fold."]}, {"id": "E1.6.31", "lines": ["Gold buys us peace, and clothes and daily bread,", "And eases every heart that lives in dread."]}, {"id": "E1.6.32", "lines": ["Let all who fear misfortune spend their gold;", "For life preserved is richer wealth to hold.”"]}, {"id": "E1.6.33", "lines": ["He chose ten fluent speakers from his train,", "Skilled men whose eloquence was clear and plain."]}, {"id": "E1.6.34", "lines": ["A learned man of Chin composed the praise,", "Observing all his country’s formal ways."]}, {"id": "E1.6.35", "lines": ["Those ten horsemen set out for the king’s court,", "With gifts, a letter, and a full report."]}, {"id": "E1.6.36", "lines": ["When men brought news of them to Anooshirvan,", "He decked the palace as became Iran."]}, {"id": "E1.6.37", "lines": ["He ordered that the curtain should be raised,", "And that the envoys enter, welcomed, praised."]}, {"id": "E1.6.38", "lines": ["The ten advanced and, bending low, displayed", "Their gifts and letter, at his footstool laid."]}, {"id": "E1.6.39", "lines": ["The Shah received them graciously and well,", "Then asked what news of Khan they came to tell."]}, {"id": "E1.6.40", "lines": ["He made them sit; they bowed their heads down low,", "Then gave the Khan’s own words for him to know."]}, {"id": "E1.6.41", "lines": ["The scribes received the silken letter, penned", "In Chin’s own script and tongue from end to end."]}, {"id": "E1.6.42", "lines": ["When Yazdegard began to read aloud,", "A hush of wonder fell upon the crowd."]}, {"id": "E1.6.43", "lines": ["It first invoked God’s blessing on the king,", "And praised Yazdan who rules each mortal thing."]}, {"id": "E1.6.44", "lines": ["Next came the Khan’s high station and command,", "His wealth, his troops, the weapons at his hand."]}, {"id": "E1.6.45", "lines": ["Third, “The Faghfoor has poured his blessings down,", "And by the World-Creator praised my crown:"]}, {"id": "E1.6.46", "lines": ["He freely gave his daughter’s hand to me,", "And placed his army under my decree."]}, {"id": "E1.6.47", "lines": ["The gifts I sent the Shah along the way", "The Heytalians seized and bore away."]}, {"id": "E1.6.48", "lines": ["I came from Chakh to make Ghatfar repay,", "To take his crown and treasure in the fray."]}, {"id": "E1.6.49", "lines": ["From Gulzaryun I rode in such a flood", "That all Jihun ran red with warriors’ blood."]}, {"id": "E1.6.50", "lines": ["Through Chin and Machin spread the Shah’s good fame;", "I praised the man who told me of his name."]}, {"id": "E1.6.51", "lines": ["His manliness, his wisdom, modest ways,", "And learning won my friendship and my praise."]}, {"id": "E1.6.52", "lines": ["In secret, I desired that we should start", "A loyal friendship, binding heart to heart.”"]}, {"id": "E1.6.53", "lines": ["The Shah heard all the claims the letter made,", "The Khan’s great power and prowess it displayed."]}, {"id": "E1.6.54", "lines": ["They made a lodging ready for the ten,", "And honored them among the courtly men."]}, {"id": "E1.6.55", "lines": ["Whenever feasts and revels filled the hall,", "The king received and fed the envoys all."]}, {"id": "E1.6.56", "lines": ["For one whole month they shared with him the chase,", "The hall, the banquet, and the royal place."]}, {"id": "E1.6.57", "lines": ["One day he held his court upon the plain;", "The horsemen’s dust rose like a storm of rain."]}, {"id": "E1.6.58", "lines": ["All marzbans came with golden girdles bright,", "And stood to serve the Shah in public sight."]}, {"id": "E1.6.59", "lines": ["Baluch and Gil came bearing shields of gold,", "Together gathered in a body bold."]}, {"id": "E1.6.60", "lines": ["A thousand steeds appeared in golden gear,", "Their rich caparisons shone bright and clear."]}, {"id": "E1.6.61", "lines": ["Gold-scabbarded scimitars flashed in light,", "And iron darts and javelins shone bright."]}, {"id": "E1.6.62", "lines": ["Gold seemed to grow from iron everywhere;", "Light married metal, dazzling all the air."]}, {"id": "E1.6.63", "lines": ["Upon an elephant in silk brocade,", "An ivory throne of splendor was displayed;"]}, {"id": "E1.6.64", "lines": ["With ebony and turquoise banded round,", "While drums and karnays filled the air with sound."]}, {"id": "E1.6.65", "lines": ["Ambassadors from Barda, Hind, and Rum,", "From every court on which the heavens loom,"]}, {"id": "E1.6.66", "lines": ["And horsemen from the plain with spear and bow,", "Went to the Shah in one assembled row."]}, {"id": "E1.6.67", "lines": ["Thus to the men of Chin he made it known:", "From sun to Fish, the realm was his alone."]}, {"id": "E1.6.68", "lines": ["The air churned thick with dust from every horse;", "The earth was armed with every warlike force."]}, {"id": "E1.6.69", "lines": ["They staged mock battle on the open ground;", "The Pahlevans swept out and wheeled around."]}, {"id": "E1.6.70", "lines": ["With axe and arrow, gorz and bow in pride,", "They thundered through the field from side to side."]}, {"id": "E1.6.71", "lines": ["The plain flashed thick with spear and javelin bright;", "Both horse and foot drove fiercely into fight."]}, {"id": "E1.6.72", "lines": ["Each envoy, sent from distant courts, now gazed", "At troops whose like he had not known, amazed."]}, {"id": "E1.6.73", "lines": ["The Shah’s face, glory, patience, and address", "Filled them with awe no language could express."]}, {"id": "E1.6.74", "lines": ["They told the Shah each awed, admiring word", "That from the foreign envoys they had heard."]}, {"id": "E1.6.75", "lines": ["He told his treasurer, “Bring out my gear,", "And lay my weapons on the field just here.”"]}, {"id": "E1.6.76", "lines": ["They brought his helmet, jowshan, body-plate,", "And loosed the buckles on that massive weight."]}, {"id": "E1.6.77", "lines": ["No warrior, though broad of chest and strong,", "Could lift that weight amid the watching throng."]}, {"id": "E1.6.78", "lines": ["The Shah alone had chest and neck to bear", "The weight of arms and armor he would wear."]}, {"id": "E1.6.79", "lines": ["No archer matched his skill with bow and string;", "No noble warrior could rival the king."]}, {"id": "E1.6.80", "lines": ["Like some fierce elephant he sought the field,", "His ox-head gorz in hand, prepared to wield."]}, {"id": "E1.6.81", "lines": ["Beneath him plunged a fiery battle-steed;", "The watching throng stood awed by height and breed."]}, {"id": "E1.6.82", "lines": ["A mighty shout arose; the karnays cried,", "And bells on elephants rang far and wide."]}, {"id": "E1.6.83", "lines": ["The drummers marched with cymbals at their head;", "Hooves hurled the earth sky-high as horses sped."]}, {"id": "E1.6.84", "lines": ["The King of kings, helmed on his armored steed,", "Wheeled left and right with mastery and speed."]}, {"id": "E1.6.85", "lines": ["The envoys praised him, bowing to the ground;", "The chiefs looked on as cheers rose all around."]}, {"id": "E1.6.86", "lines": ["Then from the field the Shah turned back his horse,", "And all the chieftains followed in his course."]}, {"id": "E1.6.87", "lines": ["In private, envoys spoke of what was seen:", "“How proud the Shah, how noble was his mien!"]}, {"id": "E1.6.88", "lines": ["He seeks renown and shows his horsemanship,", "His deadly spearpoint and his iron grip."]}, {"id": "E1.6.89", "lines": ["We must keep all that we have seen in mind,", "When to our kings we tell the sights we find."]}, {"id": "E1.6.90", "lines": ["We shall report that no one, young or old,", "Has seen the like of Anooshirvan the bold.”"]}, {"id": "E1.7.1", "lines": ["The Shah called for his scribe and Ardeshir,", "His chief of priests, and bade them both draw near."]}, {"id": "E1.7.2", "lines": ["On satin then the royal scribe set down", "In Pahlavi the answer from the crown."]}, {"id": "E1.7.3", "lines": ["He bathed his pen’s two cheeks in fragrant scent,", "With ambergris enriched for high intent."]}, {"id": "E1.7.4", "lines": ["He praised the Judge who made the heavens above,", "Who fashioned height and depth, and fashioned love."]}, {"id": "E1.7.5", "lines": ["“We all are servants; He is King of kings,", "And wisdom bears true witness to these things."]}, {"id": "E1.7.6", "lines": ["No breath can pass, no ant can touch the ground,", "Unless His sovereign order there is found."]}, {"id": "E1.7.7", "lines": ["I prayed that He, if it should be His will,", "Would send the Khan my blessing and goodwill."]}, {"id": "E1.7.8", "lines": ["Now first, concerning what your letter said", "Of Heytalians, fierce through wrongful bloodshed:"]}, {"id": "E1.7.9", "lines": ["They armed for evil, bloody and profane,", "And in the trap prepared for them were slain."]}, {"id": "E1.7.10", "lines": ["The evil man, though lion-strong in might,", "Should never stand against God’s law and right."]}, {"id": "E1.7.11", "lines": ["Though leopard-like they made their fierce display,", "You broke their force and bore their pride away."]}, {"id": "E1.7.12", "lines": ["Again, you boast of treasure, troops, and fame,", "Of Faghfoor’s favor, throne, and royal name."]}, {"id": "E1.7.13", "lines": ["The wise condemn such vaunting as a stain,", "When men exalt themselves for empty gain."]}, {"id": "E1.7.14", "lines": ["You had not seen a crown, a throne, such might;", "Thus Chakh’s display amazed you at first sight."]}, {"id": "E1.7.15", "lines": ["Tell this to one who never knew a fight,", "Nor toil, nor wealth, nor troops in armor bright."]}, {"id": "E1.7.16", "lines": ["The mighty men of earth have heard my name;", "Those who have seen me know the force I claim."]}, {"id": "E1.7.17", "lines": ["When I am pleased, a brook gives more delight", "Than all the realms of Turan in their might;"]}, {"id": "E1.7.18", "lines": ["Yet when in wrath I spur into the fray,", "The highest mountain turns to dust away."]}, {"id": "E1.7.19", "lines": ["Accept the peace; but let no army glide", "Across the rapid Jihun’s rolling tide;"]}, {"id": "E1.7.20", "lines": ["Let that broad stream divide your realm and mine,", "Our lasting peace, our border and confine."]}, {"id": "E1.7.21", "lines": ["The earth is all my treasury and care;", "On land and water, all the toil I bear."]}, {"id": "E1.7.22", "lines": ["Third, you seek friendship, offering a pact,", "A league of peace maintained in word and act."]}, {"id": "E1.7.23", "lines": ["Since you prefer the feast, I will not fight;", "No wise man favors war above delight."]}, {"id": "E1.7.24", "lines": ["No man of judgment rashly will invite", "Conflict against a prince of warlike might,"]}, {"id": "E1.7.25", "lines": ["Still less against a man inured to strife,", "Who never lags where battle stakes his life."]}, {"id": "E1.7.26", "lines": ["He needs no teacher when the battle cries,", "But reads the clash with calm and steady eyes."]}, {"id": "E1.7.27", "lines": ["Amid the fiercest tumult, he has shown", "The ease he knows when seated on his throne."]}, {"id": "E1.7.28", "lines": ["May He who made the world stand at your side;", "May crown and signet long with you abide.”"]}, {"id": "E1.7.29", "lines": ["The royal seal was set; new glory crowned", "The kingly throne, and splendor shone around."]}, {"id": "E1.7.30", "lines": ["They made a robe of honor, richly planned,", "According to the custom of the land."]}, {"id": "E1.7.31", "lines": ["They called the envoys to the Shah’s high place,", "And he received them there with princely grace."]}, {"id": "E1.7.32", "lines": ["He gave them spoken words beside the scroll,", "To make the written answer clear and whole."]}, {"id": "E1.7.33", "lines": ["The envoys left the palace well content,", "With acclamations on the road they went."]}, {"id": "E1.7.34", "lines": ["They came before the Khan with praise made plain,", "And spoke with awe of Anooshirvan’s reign."]}, {"id": "E1.7.35", "lines": ["The seasoned Khan dismissed his courtiers all;", "His minister alone stayed in the hall."]}, {"id": "E1.7.36", "lines": ["The Khan then called the envoys to make known", "All they had seen about the Shah and throne:"]}, {"id": "E1.7.37", "lines": ["First of his wisdom, counsel, sense, and mind,", "His stature, speech, and bearing among mankind."]}, {"id": "E1.7.38", "lines": ["Then next he asked, “How great the arms he wields,", "And who commands his squadrons in the fields?"]}, {"id": "E1.7.39", "lines": ["Who bears the crown, the signet-ring, the trust?", "Is his rule fair, his judgment firm and just?"]}, {"id": "E1.7.40", "lines": ["What wealth and armies lie in his command?”", "Mehran Setad addressed the royal band;"]}, {"id": "E1.7.41", "lines": ["The chief of envoys said, “Mistake him not;", "No mortal sovereign shares his favored lot."]}, {"id": "E1.7.42", "lines": ["Throughout our stay he tended us as guests,", "And kept us glad, and granted our requests."]}, {"id": "E1.7.43", "lines": ["At home, at feast, in war, and in the chase,", "We never saw such majesty and grace."]}, {"id": "E1.7.44", "lines": ["In height, a cypress; in his strength and might,", "An elephant, majestic to the sight."]}, {"id": "E1.7.45", "lines": ["His hand, in bounty, is the Nile in flood;", "His throne, the sky above all flesh and blood."]}, {"id": "E1.7.46", "lines": ["A fierce nahang in battle’s rank and file;", "His anger shakes the stoutest heart awhile."]}, {"id": "E1.7.47", "lines": ["He roars like thunder when his wrath is stirred;", "The mighty lion quails to hear one word."]}, {"id": "E1.7.48", "lines": ["Yet when he feasts, his voice is mild and clear,", "And wins the heart of everyone drawn near."]}, {"id": "E1.7.49", "lines": ["Upon his throne, like Soroush he is seen,", "A fruitful tree with lovely branches green."]}, {"id": "E1.7.50", "lines": ["Iran’s armed troops all stand at his command,", "And bow before the crown that rules the land."]}, {"id": "E1.7.51", "lines": ["When he holds court upon the open plain,", "His troops are more than earth can well contain."]}, {"id": "E1.7.52", "lines": ["His gorz-men wear gold girdles at his side;", "His ministers are noble, wise, and tried."]}, {"id": "E1.7.53", "lines": ["His ivory steps, his thrones and armlets bright,", "His crowns and collars, elephants of might,"]}, {"id": "E1.7.54", "lines": ["No mortal mind could reckon their amount;", "God only knows the sum beyond all count."]}, {"id": "E1.7.55", "lines": ["Though any foe were iron, mountain-high,", "His wrath would shrink him to a needle’s eye."]}, {"id": "E1.7.56", "lines": ["Let him who has grown weary of his life", "Rise up and challenge Anooshirvan in strife!”"]}, {"id": "E1.8.1", "lines": ["The Khan’s face paled, like fenugreek in flower;", "His heart grew strained beneath the tidings’ power."]}, {"id": "E1.8.2", "lines": ["Fear filled his breast at what the envoys said,", "He wrestled with the anxious thoughts they bred."]}, {"id": "E1.8.3", "lines": ["He sat displeased among his council near,", "And spoke to all those men of judgment clear:"]}, {"id": "E1.8.4", "lines": ["“O wise advisers, what is now our way?", "Who feels this hurt more sharply here today?"]}, {"id": "E1.8.5", "lines": ["He must not conquer us upon the field,", "Or all our fame to infamy will yield.”"]}, {"id": "E1.8.6", "lines": ["The sages weighed the matter with due care,", "And sought a path that all of them could share."]}, {"id": "E1.8.7", "lines": ["The Khan then said, “Our policy is plain:", "We send a warrior to the Shah’s domain."]}, {"id": "E1.8.8", "lines": ["We must look deeper into this design,", "And knit him to my house through kinship’s line."]}, {"id": "E1.8.9", "lines": ["My daughters fill the bower, fair and wise;", "Each one a crown before discerning eyes."]}, {"id": "E1.8.10", "lines": ["I will give one in marriage to the king,", "And end the fears these present dangers bring."]}, {"id": "E1.8.11", "lines": ["If we are joined with him by blood and name,", "No counsel then will move him toward our shame."]}, {"id": "E1.8.12", "lines": ["For him this bond will be both joy and pride;", "With others, war is but a jest beside.”"]}, {"id": "E1.8.13", "lines": ["The chiefs approved the counsel of their lord,", "And cried, “This path is wise!” with one accord."]}, {"id": "E1.8.14", "lines": ["He chose three men of rank from those arrayed,", "Well trained to speak and answer as he bade."]}, {"id": "E1.8.15", "lines": ["He opened all his hoards of gold and stone,", "And spoke of how true wealth and worth are shown:"]}, {"id": "E1.8.16", "lines": ["“Why store up jewels, why bright gold amass,", "Unless in fame and honor to surpass?"]}, {"id": "E1.8.17", "lines": ["They serve for feasts and gifts, and ward off shame;", "Through wealth the realm preserves its strength and name.”"]}, {"id": "E1.8.18", "lines": ["He ordered gifts prepared with lavish care,", "Such as no high or low had seen elsewhere."]}, {"id": "E1.8.19", "lines": ["He called a seasoned scribe and then made known", "The counsel he would send before the throne."]}, {"id": "E1.8.20", "lines": ["First he gave praise to God, the Maker wise,", "Whose power sustains the earth and turning skies."]}, {"id": "E1.8.21", "lines": ["Lord of the sun and moon, of Saturn’s sphere,", "Lord of all triumph, mastery, and fear,"]}, {"id": "E1.8.22", "lines": ["Who asks His servants only to be just,", "And lets no righteous measure fall to dust:"]}, {"id": "E1.8.23", "lines": ["“His blessing rest on Iran’s royal light,", "Whose gorz and helm and sword unite in fight."]}, {"id": "E1.8.24", "lines": ["Lord of the crown and throne, of thought and might,", "By God of victory crowned with fortune bright."]}, {"id": "E1.8.25", "lines": ["The king of kings, from royal lineage sprung,", "Wise, grave, and just, by every wise man sung,"]}, {"id": "E1.8.26", "lines": ["Knows well that men, however high their state,", "Desire the love and honor of the great."]}, {"id": "E1.8.27", "lines": ["When my wise envoys, partners at my side,", "Returned from your great court in loyal pride,"]}, {"id": "E1.8.28", "lines": ["They told me fully of the Shah’s high name,", "His justice, wisdom, throne, and rising fame."]}, {"id": "E1.8.29", "lines": ["They spoke of fortune, crown, and sovereign grace,", "And glory shining from his royal place."]}, {"id": "E1.8.30", "lines": ["His light awakened longing in my breast,", "To seek beneath his wings a place of rest."]}, {"id": "E1.8.31", "lines": ["No treasure equals children wise and true;", "They are the heart’s own blood and honor too."]}, {"id": "E1.8.32", "lines": ["Therefore, if he desires, let him demand", "One stainless daughter from my royal land:"]}, {"id": "E1.8.33", "lines": ["The gentlest, fairest, wisest of them all,", "Fit for his throne and fortune’s highest call."]}, {"id": "E1.8.34", "lines": ["She will bring profit to his royal reign,", "And join Iran with Chin across the plain."]}, {"id": "E1.8.35", "lines": ["Our borders then will meet from side to side,", "And I shall spread your praises far and wide.”"]}, {"id": "E1.8.36", "lines": ["They wrote on silk of Chin the words he told,", "And sealed the letter with his seal of gold."]}, {"id": "E1.8.37", "lines": ["The Khan then chose three nobles of his line,", "Whose speech and judgment both were clear and fine."]}, {"id": "E1.8.38", "lines": ["They quit that lofty court and pressed ahead,", "And turned toward Iran, where their errand led."]}, {"id": "E1.8.39", "lines": ["The three wise men of rank approached the hall,", "And bowed before the Shah, observed by all."]}, {"id": "E1.8.40", "lines": ["A gem-encrusted crown the envoys bore,", "With torques and armlets from the Khan’s own store;"]}, {"id": "E1.8.41", "lines": ["Full thirty thousand golden coins they laid,", "With silks of Chin in dazzling sheen displayed."]}, {"id": "E1.8.42", "lines": ["They laid them as a gift before the king,", "With all the wealth that loyal envoys bring."]}, {"id": "E1.8.43", "lines": ["Gold, silver, and brocades from Chin’s far home", "Made earth seem brighter than the sky’s blue dome."]}, {"id": "E1.8.44", "lines": ["When all the envoys had been duly seated,", "Their native words of blessing were repeated."]}, {"id": "E1.8.45", "lines": ["The Shah’s chief minister prepared their quarters,", "A fitting lodge, with servants, grooms, and porters."]}, {"id": "E1.8.46", "lines": ["Heaven turned one night; when morning’s flame arose,", "And sunlight climbed above the mountain snows,"]}, {"id": "E1.8.47", "lines": ["The Shah sat on his turquoise throne, the weight", "Of jeweled crown and royal robes ornate."]}, {"id": "E1.8.48", "lines": ["He ordered Mobadan and chiefs renowned", "To gather with the sages all around."]}, {"id": "E1.8.49", "lines": ["He said, “Bring forth and lay before the scribe", "The silk-writ letter from the Khan’s own tribe.”"]}, {"id": "E1.8.50", "lines": ["The nobles sat around the Shah to hear", "The letter; Yazdegard himself drew near."]}, {"id": "E1.8.51", "lines": ["He read the letter; all who heard were moved,", "Amazed by all the courtesy it proved."]}, {"id": "E1.8.52", "lines": ["Goodwill, apology, and praise were shown", "In every line the Khan had made his own."]}, {"id": "E1.8.53", "lines": ["The wise and famous chiefs began to praise", "The king whose fortune blessed their peaceful days:"]}, {"id": "E1.8.54", "lines": ["“Thanks be to God, our refuge and our shield,", "Who set such majesty upon the field,"]}, {"id": "E1.8.55", "lines": ["A Shah endowed with victory and grace,", "With kingly fortune shining from his face;"]}, {"id": "E1.8.56", "lines": ["Good, kind, and prudent, fierce in battle’s heat,", "A raging elephant no foe can meet;"]}, {"id": "E1.8.57", "lines": ["At feast, he gives with free and open hand;", "His foes below him in the world must stand."]}, {"id": "E1.8.58", "lines": ["If they deserve that lesser rank and name,", "They stand beneath your greatness and your fame."]}, {"id": "E1.8.59", "lines": ["We feared the Khan, Chakh’s power, crown, and might,", "Whose troops and treasure darkened all our sight."]}, {"id": "E1.8.60", "lines": ["But now, through royal grace, he is our friend,", "And seeks a bond that brings division’s end."]}, {"id": "E1.8.61", "lines": ["The wisest chiefs, though ready for the fight,", "Will offer peace when peace upholds the right."]}, {"id": "E1.8.62", "lines": ["Because the Khan knows well he cannot stand", "Against the Shah, he offers kinship’s hand."]}, {"id": "E1.8.63", "lines": ["We should not let this matter wait too long;", "Such kinship brings the Shah no shame or wrong."]}, {"id": "E1.8.64", "lines": ["From Chin to broad Bukhara stretch his bands;", "The chiefs find shelter in his guarding hands.”"]}, {"id": "E1.8.65", "lines": ["When the Shah heard what all the wise men said,", "The keen Mobadan each bowed an honored head."]}, {"id": "E1.8.66", "lines": ["They sent the strangers from the meeting place,", "And brought the envoys in before his face."]}, {"id": "E1.8.67", "lines": ["The king of kings received them with delight,", "And gave them honored seats within his sight."]}, {"id": "E1.8.68", "lines": ["They gave their master’s message word by word,", "And faithfully repeated all they heard."]}, {"id": "E1.8.69", "lines": ["When he had heard the chiefs of Chin appeal", "In accents mild and bold, with fervent zeal,"]}, {"id": "E1.8.70", "lines": ["He said, “The Khan is honored, great, and wise;", "Through his dear child he seeks our household ties."]}, {"id": "E1.8.71", "lines": ["By this he shows the goodwill in his mind;", "The wise examine matters of each kind."]}, {"id": "E1.8.72", "lines": ["We shall take counsel, weighing what we heard,", "Then give a full reply to every word."]}, {"id": "E1.8.73", "lines": ["But one condition must be understood:", "The Khan must let me choose as wisdom should."]}, {"id": "E1.8.74", "lines": ["I shall send a sage, skilled in judgment’s art,", "To view his women and discern each heart."]}, {"id": "E1.8.75", "lines": ["He shall select the one the Khan holds dear,", "Whose noble birth and excellence are clear."]}, {"id": "E1.8.76", "lines": ["He shall learn her mother’s father’s name and birth,", "And weigh her mother’s lineage and worth."]}, {"id": "E1.8.77", "lines": ["When all that I have named is duly done,", "Our houses shall be joined through her as one.”"]}, {"id": "E1.8.78", "lines": ["The envoys praised the Shah and answered then:", "“The Khan of Chin rejoices among men."]}, {"id": "E1.8.79", "lines": ["Though jewels rained within his women’s hall,", "He would give every coin at Kisra’s call."]}, {"id": "E1.8.80", "lines": ["Choose from your sages one both wise and true;", "The ladies shall come forward into view,"]}, {"id": "E1.8.81", "lines": ["And none shall veil her face before his eyes;", "He shall examine each as he thinks wise.”"]}, {"id": "E1.8.82", "lines": ["The Shah heard all the words the envoys spoke;", "Within him, joys of former days awoke."]}, {"id": "E1.9.1", "lines": ["He called a scribe and praised the Khan at length,", "Then shaped his answer with a measured strength."]}, {"id": "E1.9.2", "lines": ["He first praised God, the sovereign Lord of all,", "Who feeds the world and makes proud kingdoms fall."]}, {"id": "E1.9.3", "lines": ["“The world stands firm beneath His sovereign law;", "He guides our hearts from error into awe."]}, {"id": "E1.9.4", "lines": ["He grants men worth and raises those brought low,", "As wisdom and His sovereign purpose show."]}, {"id": "E1.9.5", "lines": ["Another man He leaves in luckless night,", "Denied the favor of His guiding light."]}, {"id": "E1.9.6", "lines": ["For every grace, to Him our thanks are due;", "Fear no misfortune: He will guide us through."]}, {"id": "E1.9.7", "lines": ["May life within my breast itself depart", "If hope and fear of Him forsake my heart."]}, {"id": "E1.9.8", "lines": ["The honored envoys stood before my face,", "And brought the Khan’s kind message to this place."]}, {"id": "E1.9.9", "lines": ["I heard what he had said about a league,", "And of his daughters, pure beyond intrigue."]}, {"id": "E1.9.10", "lines": ["My heart would gladly welcome such a bliss,", "And through his chaste child seal a bond like this."]}, {"id": "E1.9.11", "lines": ["See, I have sent to you a prudent man,", "One whose wise mind can understand my plan."]}, {"id": "E1.9.12", "lines": ["When he arrives, my thoughts he will reveal,", "And nothing of my purpose will conceal."]}, {"id": "E1.9.13", "lines": ["May reverence forever fill your mind;", "Remain our faithful friend, sincere and kind.”"]}, {"id": "E1.9.14", "lines": ["The writer, when the pen had done its part,", "Adorned the page with practiced care and art."]}, {"id": "E1.9.15", "lines": ["The royal letter, written fair and neat,", "Received the sovereign’s seal upon the sheet."]}, {"id": "E1.9.16", "lines": ["From royal stores came robes in rich array;", "Each envoy took a robe of honor away."]}, {"id": "E1.9.17", "lines": ["He chose Mehran Setad, an elder just,", "A wise old chief in whom the Shah could trust."]}, {"id": "E1.9.18", "lines": ["He chose five score, Iran’s mounted elite,", "Renowned among their peers, skilled and discreet."]}, {"id": "E1.9.19", "lines": ["He said to old Mehran, “Go on your road", "Glad, just, and loving in that strange abode."]}, {"id": "E1.9.20", "lines": ["Speak with the force that guides a prudent chief,", "And let your wisdom bring the court relief."]}, {"id": "E1.9.21", "lines": ["Let kindness fill your heart in all you do,", "Yet keep your judgment searching, firm, and true."]}, {"id": "E1.9.22", "lines": ["Survey the women’s quarters with due care,", "And weigh each daughter’s merit, foul or fair."]}, {"id": "E1.9.23", "lines": ["Do not be fooled by face or outward guise,", "By grace, display, or gems that dazzle eyes."]}, {"id": "E1.9.24", "lines": ["Behind his curtains is a daughter tall,", "A stately cypress in the women’s hall."]}, {"id": "E1.9.25", "lines": ["The children of his slaves are not for me,", "Though kings may be their fathers in degree."]}, {"id": "E1.9.26", "lines": ["Look for the one both modest, kind, and true,", "Whose mother shares Khatoon’s own lineage too."]}, {"id": "E1.9.27", "lines": ["Faghfoor of Chin must be her mother’s sire;", "The Khan her father: such is my desire."]}, {"id": "E1.9.28", "lines": ["If gifts within her match her noble birth,", "She will live joyful and delight the earth.”"]}, {"id": "E1.9.29", "lines": ["Mehran Setad heard all the Shah had said,", "And blessings on the crown and throne he spread."]}, {"id": "E1.9.30", "lines": ["He left the world-bright portal of the king,", "At fortune’s hour beneath a favored wing."]}, {"id": "E1.9.31", "lines": ["Upon Khordad he started on his way,", "Beneath a sign made fortunate that day."]}, {"id": "E1.9.32", "lines": ["Swift news of his approach the Khan did learn,", "And sent his troops to greet him in return."]}, {"id": "E1.9.33", "lines": ["When he arrived before the Khan’s high place,", "He kissed the ground and spoke with courtly grace."]}, {"id": "E1.9.34", "lines": ["That world-aspiring king received him well,", "And gave him honored rooms in which to dwell."]}, {"id": "E1.9.35", "lines": ["Yet troubled by the weight of this affair,", "He sought the queen, his heavy heart to bare."]}, {"id": "E1.9.36", "lines": ["He sat beside her, troubled in his heart,", "And spoke with grief of what would make them part:"]}, {"id": "E1.9.37", "lines": ["“If to the Shah our daughter is denied,", "War’s dragon stirs upon the border side.”"]}, {"id": "E1.9.38", "lines": ["The Khatoon wept, by bitter thoughts possessed,", "Then wove a stratagem within her breast."]}, {"id": "E1.9.39", "lines": ["She said: “Four other maids of slave-stock dwell", "Within our bower, and they are fair as well."]}, {"id": "E1.9.40", "lines": ["Deck those four maidens out in crowns and gold,", "With every jewel dazzling to behold;"]}, {"id": "E1.9.41", "lines": ["My daughter we shall clothe in plain array,", "With unadorned and humble robes of gray."]}, {"id": "E1.9.42", "lines": ["The Shah’s old sage will pass the plain one by,", "And choose the brightest to enchant his eye.”"]}, {"id": "E1.9.43", "lines": ["In talk like this they passed the night away,", "Until the sun climbed up the mountain way."]}, {"id": "E1.9.44", "lines": ["Then wise Mehran Setad came near the seat,", "And gave the Khan the royal scroll complete."]}, {"id": "E1.9.45", "lines": ["The Khan read through the words; they made him smile,", "The marriage offer couched in gracious style."]}, {"id": "E1.9.46", "lines": ["He gave the key that would unlock the bower,", "And said, “Go look upon the hidden flower.”"]}, {"id": "E1.9.47", "lines": ["Four trusted slaves came forward at his side,", "To lead Mehran where veiled women hide."]}, {"id": "E1.9.48", "lines": ["He bowed, then took the key into his hand,", "And entered with them at the Khan’s command."]}, {"id": "E1.9.49", "lines": ["He opened every door within the hall;", "The servants cried in wonder, one and all:"]}, {"id": "E1.9.50", "lines": ["“No star or sun or moon has seen the sight", "That now before your eyes will blaze with light.”"]}, {"id": "E1.9.51", "lines": ["The ladies’ bower seemed Paradise remade,", "With suns and moons and treasures richly laid."]}, {"id": "E1.9.52", "lines": ["Five fairy-faced young maidens sat arrayed,", "With crowns and jewels in that hall displayed,"]}, {"id": "E1.9.53", "lines": ["All but the daughter born of queenly line,", "Who wore no crown, no torque, no jewel’s shine."]}, {"id": "E1.9.54", "lines": ["She wore a worn robe, humble to the eyes,", "Her musky locks her crown beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "E1.9.55", "lines": ["Her cheeks were not adorned with artful dye;", "Her natural beauty met the gazer’s eye."]}, {"id": "E1.9.56", "lines": ["A cypress stood, with new moon overhead,", "Whose luster round her throne was softly spread."]}, {"id": "E1.9.57", "lines": ["When old Mehran beheld the maidens fair,", "He saw none like the one with humble air."]}, {"id": "E1.9.58", "lines": ["Shrewd in his counsel, firm in heart and aim,", "He knew the royal pair had staged a game."]}, {"id": "E1.9.59", "lines": ["The maiden used her hands to veil her eyes,", "And hid her face with innocent disguise."]}, {"id": "E1.9.60", "lines": ["Mehran grew angered and addressed the slaves:", "“The Shah has crowns and thrones and gems he saves."]}, {"id": "E1.9.61", "lines": ["I choose the girl without the jeweled crown;", "The Shah has gems to match her high renown."]}, {"id": "E1.9.62", "lines": ["To choose by judgment of my own I came,", "Not to buy Chin’s silk for its vaunted name.”"]}, {"id": "E1.9.63", "lines": ["The queen replied, “Old man, your words are cold;", "Your counsel is not gracious, wise, or bold."]}, {"id": "E1.9.64", "lines": ["You choose a child, too young as yet to reign,", "Above these women? Then your choice is vain."]}, {"id": "E1.9.65", "lines": ["They kindle hearts, tall cypress-trees in grace,", "With spring-bright cheeks and majesty of face."]}, {"id": "E1.9.66", "lines": ["They know the worship owed to kings and crown,", "And bear the courtly arts of high renown.”"]}, {"id": "E1.9.67", "lines": ["Mehran replied, “If Khan deals falsely here,", "The truth before the Shah will soon appear."]}, {"id": "E1.9.68", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan, monarch of the earth,", "Will call me false, disgraced, of little worth."]}, {"id": "E1.9.69", "lines": ["Four on their golden thrones in splendor shine,", "Yet lack the blood of royal Faghfoor’s line."]}, {"id": "E1.9.70", "lines": ["I choose the maid who sits in plain attire", "Upon the throne of teak; her I require!"]}, {"id": "E1.9.71", "lines": ["But if your Highness will not give consent,", "Allow me now to leave as I was sent.”"]}, {"id": "E1.9.72", "lines": ["The Khan looked on, astonished at his art,", "And at the judgment of his prudent heart."]}, {"id": "E1.9.73", "lines": ["He knew the elder, wise in thought and deed,", "Had all the skill such weighty matters need."]}, {"id": "E1.9.74", "lines": ["He sat beside his wife to weigh the case,", "And cleared the others from that meeting place."]}, {"id": "E1.9.75", "lines": ["The star-readers came with charts in hand,", "With mighty men and chiefs from every land."]}, {"id": "E1.9.76", "lines": ["The Khan commanded every learned man", "To read the heavens and reveal their plan."]}, {"id": "E1.9.77", "lines": ["The sages scanned the stars to find the way,", "And read what fate for Khan and Shah would say."]}, {"id": "E1.9.78", "lines": ["Their spokesman said, “O King, let grief depart;", "Let no dark thought or evil vex your heart."]}, {"id": "E1.9.79", "lines": ["This bond shall prosper; cast your fears aside;", "No foe with ill intent shall here abide."]}, {"id": "E1.9.80", "lines": ["High Heaven has ordained what stars proclaim,", "And in the horoscope has marked the same:"]}, {"id": "E1.9.81", "lines": ["‘From her shall spring a world-commanding son,", "By whom both realm and lineage shall be one:"]}, {"id": "E1.9.82", "lines": ["Great Hormizd, who shall wear the Kayan crown,", "While Chin and Iran tremble at his renown.’”"]}, {"id": "E1.10.1", "lines": ["The Khan, on hearing this, grew glad of heart,", "And from his face all care seemed to depart."]}, {"id": "E1.10.2", "lines": ["The sunlike queen smiled also, bright and clear;", "Their hearts were purged of craft, deceit, and fear."]}, {"id": "E1.10.3", "lines": ["They called the envoy near and let him know", "All he would need before they let him go."]}, {"id": "E1.10.4", "lines": ["They spoke about the queen’s secluded child,", "So long kept hidden, stainless, fair, and mild."]}, {"id": "E1.10.5", "lines": ["On the Shah’s behalf, Mehran received her hand", "From her own father, ruler of the land."]}, {"id": "E1.10.6", "lines": ["The Khan bestowed the daughter of his queen,", "Her only child, of noble form and sheen."]}, {"id": "E1.10.7", "lines": ["The handmaids came with gifts and joyful grace,", "And gladly bowed before the royal face."]}, {"id": "E1.10.8", "lines": ["A wealth of varied treasures was displayed:", "Gold coins and gems in shining heaps were laid."]}, {"id": "E1.10.9", "lines": ["There shone a turquoise litter, crowns ablaze,", "An ivory throne, and torques that held the gaze."]}, {"id": "E1.10.10", "lines": ["From Hind an aloe-wooden throne was brought,", "With gold and jewels intricately wrought."]}, {"id": "E1.10.11", "lines": ["With every throne they set a royal crown,", "To send as signs of glory and renown."]}, {"id": "E1.10.12", "lines": ["Two hundred horses waited, harnessed bright,", "With golden bits and bridles flashing light;"]}, {"id": "E1.10.13", "lines": ["A thousand camels bore upon the road", "Priceless fine silk and jewels in each load."]}, {"id": "E1.10.14", "lines": ["From distant Chin the camels bore brocade,", "And forty cloths of gold, richly displayed."]}, {"id": "E1.10.15", "lines": ["Emeralds were set in every golden fold,", "While carpets filled a hundred loads, all rolled."]}, {"id": "E1.10.16", "lines": ["Two hundred maidens then were brought in line,", "Each mounted, bright with ornaments that shine;"]}, {"id": "E1.10.17", "lines": ["Each held a golden chalice, as the way", "In Chin required when brides were on display."]}, {"id": "E1.10.18", "lines": ["The Khan, with fortune standing at his side,", "Prepared an elephant in lordly pride."]}, {"id": "E1.10.19", "lines": ["Upon its back a jeweled throne was set,", "Where gold and silver every gem beset."]}, {"id": "E1.10.20", "lines": ["A flag of Chinese silk was raised on high;", "Its folds trailed on the ground beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "E1.10.21", "lines": ["A hundred men were needed there to raise", "That standard skyward through the public gaze."]}, {"id": "E1.10.22", "lines": ["A litter decked with brocade and with gold", "Concealed the maiden none might yet behold."]}, {"id": "E1.10.23", "lines": ["Three hundred handmaids, cheerful, bright of mien,", "Attended that moon-visaged child serene."]}, {"id": "E1.10.24", "lines": ["The Khan then sent his daughter to the king,", "With troops around her in a guarded ring."]}, {"id": "E1.10.25", "lines": ["A hundred eunuchs marched before the maid,", "With golden belts and scimitars displayed."]}, {"id": "E1.10.26", "lines": ["The scribe was summoned to the train’s array;", "Silk, musk, and rosewater were brought that day."]}, {"id": "E1.10.27", "lines": ["He first gave praise to God, the Maker high,", "Yazdan whose watchful vision fills the sky."]}, {"id": "E1.10.28", "lines": ["He shaped all things by His divine decree,", "And guides His servants where their ends shall be."]}, {"id": "E1.10.29", "lines": ["“To Iran’s Shah, whose wisdom guards the land,", "Who holds the crown and throne in his command."]}, {"id": "E1.10.30", "lines": ["Not for my daughter’s sake I sought this tie,", "Nor set a league before the Shah’s clear eye."]}, {"id": "E1.10.31", "lines": ["But when wise nobles, priests with thoughtful care", "Had told me of his grace and royal air,"]}, {"id": "E1.10.32", "lines": ["His majesty, his fortune, throne, and might,", "I sought his bond, his friendship, and his light."]}, {"id": "E1.10.33", "lines": ["No ruler in the world is just as great,", "Nor one so marked by mastery and state."]}, {"id": "E1.10.34", "lines": ["In manhood, victory, and royal worth,", "God holds him up in wisdom on this earth."]}, {"id": "E1.10.35", "lines": ["In grace, in bearing, in crown and throne he stands,", "While holy justice strengthens both his hands."]}, {"id": "E1.10.36", "lines": ["With faith and wisdom God sustains his way;", "And nurtures all his greatness day by day."]}, {"id": "E1.10.37", "lines": ["According to our rites, we now shall send", "Our very eye, your service to attend."]}, {"id": "E1.10.38", "lines": ["We send her now to you, great Shah, as bride,", "To dwell behind your curtains at your side."]}, {"id": "E1.10.39", "lines": ["I charge her there to serve you with goodwill,", "And learn your wisdom, customs, conduct still."]}, {"id": "E1.10.40", "lines": ["From grace and insight she will learn your ways;", "May wit and fortune strengthen all your days."]}, {"id": "E1.10.41", "lines": ["May majesty and knowledge be your stay,", "And guide your crown through every royal way.”"]}, {"id": "E1.10.42", "lines": ["They sealed the scroll with musk and royal art,", "Then gave it to their guest, who would depart."]}, {"id": "E1.10.43", "lines": ["With compliments, the Khan prepared for him", "A robe whose splendor made all others dim."]}, {"id": "E1.10.44", "lines": ["No lord on earth had ever robed a guest", "In such array, so splendid and so blest."]}, {"id": "E1.10.45", "lines": ["He gave the suite rich gifts, a treasure-hoard", "Of fragrant musk and minted gold outpoured."]}, {"id": "E1.10.46", "lines": ["Then with his daughter, goods, and loaded train,", "He traveled outward toward the Jihun plain."]}, {"id": "E1.10.47", "lines": ["The beasts and elephants were richly dressed;", "The Khan went with them, sorrow in his breast."]}, {"id": "E1.10.48", "lines": ["He reached the Jihun’s bank and wept heart’s blood,", "While grief within him rose, a surging flood."]}, {"id": "E1.10.49", "lines": ["He waited till the train had safely crossed,", "Then turned for home, though all his joy seemed lost."]}, {"id": "E1.10.50", "lines": ["When news of wise Mehran’s approach was spread,", "The people lined the roads that lay ahead."]}, {"id": "E1.10.51", "lines": ["With one consent they blessed the Shah’s high name,", "And gave the chief of Chin the same acclaim."]}, {"id": "E1.10.52", "lines": ["They welcomed her with largess, gifts, and cheer,", "And pledged their friendship as the bride drew near."]}, {"id": "E1.10.53", "lines": ["They decked the roads and cities for the bride,", "And showered minted silver at her side."]}, {"id": "E1.10.54", "lines": ["Toward Amuy, Marv, Bistam, and Gorgan’s way,", "The earth grew bright as pheasant plumes in day."]}, {"id": "E1.10.55", "lines": ["In field and town the sky was almost lost,", "By arches, banners, ornaments embossed."]}, {"id": "E1.10.56", "lines": ["From home came men and women, children too,", "To meet the idol as her train came through."]}, {"id": "E1.10.57", "lines": ["They showered silver on her escort fair,", "And sifted musk and amber through the air."]}, {"id": "E1.10.58", "lines": ["There rang karnay, pipe, tabira’s deep hum,", "With harp and song; no quiet hour could come."]}, {"id": "E1.10.59", "lines": ["Their horses’ manes were wet with musk and wine;", "Sweetmeats and coins beneath their feet would shine."]}, {"id": "E1.10.60", "lines": ["When that fair idol reached the royal bower,", "The Shah looked in and saw a cypress flower."]}, {"id": "E1.10.61", "lines": ["Above it shone the round moon’s amber crown,", "With musky chain-like curls cascading down."]}, {"id": "E1.10.62", "lines": ["Like scented rings, her curls on roses lay;", "Between her brows shone Jupiter’s bright ray."]}, {"id": "E1.10.63", "lines": ["Astonished, he invoked the Maker’s grace,", "And had them deck for her a fitting place."]}, {"id": "E1.11.1", "lines": ["When news of Iran and her king had flown", "To Chin’s great Khan, and to his court was known,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.2", "lines": ["And how his child had been received with joy,", "With no distrust, no insult, no alloy,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.3", "lines": ["He yielded Sughd and Chakh, and Samarkand,", "Then sent his crown to Kachar Bashi’s land."]}, {"id": "E1.11.4", "lines": ["The Shah’s just rule rebuilt what had decayed,", "And all slept safe beneath his spreading shade."]}, {"id": "E1.11.5", "lines": ["All people everywhere raised hands in prayer,", "And called down blessings through the open air:"]}, {"id": "E1.11.6", "lines": ["“O Ruler over space and turning time,", "Keep Anooshirvan in justice at his prime."]}, {"id": "E1.11.7", "lines": ["Turn Fortune’s evils far from his domain;", "Let no dark hour bring sorrow to his reign."]}, {"id": "E1.11.8", "lines": ["For by his royal grace and just command,", "Both public and private ills have left the land."]}, {"id": "E1.11.9", "lines": ["When he reached Gorgan for the royal chase,", "No Khan of Chin still dared to show his face."]}, {"id": "E1.11.10", "lines": ["The mighty horsemen of Chin could find no rest;", "No rider left his horse, by fear oppressed."]}, {"id": "E1.11.11", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand Turkish troops were gone,", "Without a battle fought or sword yet drawn."]}, {"id": "E1.11.12", "lines": ["No bowstring now need strain; no great or small", "Of Chin remains within these lands at all."]}, {"id": "E1.11.13", "lines": ["Such was his grace divine, such kingly sheen,", "When that fierce lion sought the hunting green."]}, {"id": "E1.11.14", "lines": ["Such was his name, so blessed his star’s career,", "That fortune served his throne in every sphere.”"]}, {"id": "E1.11.15", "lines": ["Then nobles gathered from the lands around,", "From Chakh, Amuy, Khutan, on common ground."]}, {"id": "E1.11.16", "lines": ["They said, “These spacious regions, rich of yield,", "With lofty halls, and grounds where horsemen wheeled,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.17", "lines": ["Chakh, Tarak, Samarkand, and Sughd’s wide plain", "Lie desolate, where owls alone remain."]}, {"id": "E1.11.18", "lines": ["Chaghaniyan, Khatlan, Shiknan, Balkh have known", "Dark days of grief throughout the lands they own."]}, {"id": "E1.11.19", "lines": ["Khwarazm, Bukhara, Amuy, Zam; all these,", "Still bleed with wounds; our hearts can find no ease."]}, {"id": "E1.11.20", "lines": ["Once none could rest; all hearts were filled with dread,", "Beneath Afrasiab’s cruel rule they bled."]}, {"id": "E1.11.21", "lines": ["Yet we found rescue when Kay Khosrow came,", "And warfare fled before his royal name."]}, {"id": "E1.11.22", "lines": ["Then Arjasp rose and filled these marches wide", "With grief and ruin, anguish, blood, and pride."]}, {"id": "E1.11.23", "lines": ["But when Goshtasb from Iran marched to war,", "Arjasp could find no refuge from its roar."]}, {"id": "E1.11.24", "lines": ["His deeds brought peace and quiet to the land;", "May none like Arjasp rise to take command."]}, {"id": "E1.11.25", "lines": ["Afterward, when Narsi became the chief,", "These lands were filled with misery and grief."]}, {"id": "E1.11.26", "lines": ["But when Shapur, son of Hormizd, grew strong,", "And Narsi, dazed, could not hold out for long,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.27", "lines": ["The world found justice, quiet, ordered breath,", "And Ahriman’s hand was stayed from harm and death."]}, {"id": "E1.11.28", "lines": ["When from Yazdegard the Khan seized the world,", "And into wrong and ruin all was hurled,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.29", "lines": ["Then Bahram Goor arose in royal might,", "And broke his power, restoring law and right."]}, {"id": "E1.11.30", "lines": ["He made these regions bloom, dispelled decay,", "And drove all foulness from the land away."]}, {"id": "E1.11.31", "lines": ["Then Khoshnavaz, in Shah Pirooz’s day,", "Spread bloodshed, burning ruin, and dismay;"]}, {"id": "E1.11.32", "lines": ["Till wise Faghanish rose to take the reins,", "And brought relief to our tormented plains."]}, {"id": "E1.11.33", "lines": ["Now Anooshirvan holds our marches fast,", "And all our former misery has passed."]}, {"id": "E1.11.34", "lines": ["Forever may his policy endure,", "And make the whole world one, secure and pure."]}, {"id": "E1.11.35", "lines": ["Now earth sees justice; we shall seek no pain,", "Nor shed men’s blood to make ambition plain.”"]}, {"id": "E1.11.36", "lines": ["Then Heytalians, Turks, and Khutan’s band", "Met by the Gulzaryun’s flowing strand."]}, {"id": "E1.11.37", "lines": ["From every quarter where wise priests were found,", "Or learned lords whose counsel was renowned,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.38", "lines": ["The prudent Turks all gathered there in awe,", "A mighty concourse beneath his law."]}, {"id": "E1.11.39", "lines": ["Their common purpose now was clear and plain:", "To bring the Shah their gifts and end all strain."]}, {"id": "E1.11.40", "lines": ["When they came near him, heart and tongue made one,", "They filled his court beneath the royal sun."]}, {"id": "E1.11.41", "lines": ["So dense the crowd became at court that day,", "No ant or gnat could find an open way."]}, {"id": "E1.11.42", "lines": ["They bowed to earth and praised the Shah aloud,", "And spoke as one voice from the gathered crowd:"]}, {"id": "E1.11.43", "lines": ["“O Shah, we are your slaves and live to do", "Your bidding in the world, loyal and true."]}, {"id": "E1.11.44", "lines": ["We all are nobles, armed for battle’s field,", "Whose spears tear leopard hide and shatter shield.”"]}, {"id": "E1.11.45", "lines": ["The king of kings received their gifts, well pleased;", "Their hearts, so long in dread, were now appeased."]}, {"id": "E1.11.46", "lines": ["Their leader Faghanish came with that band;", "Young warriors went before him at his command."]}, {"id": "E1.11.47", "lines": ["When they had found such favor in his sight,", "The chamberlain went forth with greetings bright."]}, {"id": "E1.11.48", "lines": ["He gave them formal welcome at the gate,", "And lodged each man according to his state."]}, {"id": "E1.11.49", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan, who worshipped only God,", "Passed from the audience hall down to the sod."]}, {"id": "E1.11.50", "lines": ["He offered thanks before Yazdan of light,", "With tearful heart and soul made pure and bright:"]}, {"id": "E1.11.51", "lines": ["“O You above all turns of Fortune’s wheel,", "Who grant me grace, success, and righteous zeal,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.52", "lines": ["You are my Guide in every good and ill,", "The source of counsel and my sovereign will."]}, {"id": "E1.11.53", "lines": ["All those who hear my name renounce the crown;", "They bow in meekness and their pride falls down."]}, {"id": "E1.11.54", "lines": ["They all submit and choose to be my men;", "No heart has courage to oppose me then."]}, {"id": "E1.11.55", "lines": ["Birds on the mountains, fishes in the stream,", "Keep watch for me when I lie down to dream."]}, {"id": "E1.11.56", "lines": ["All wild things serve as sentinels for me,", "The mighty of the world bow at my knee."]}, {"id": "E1.11.57", "lines": ["No man stays base whom You elect and raise,", "O Lord of all, the source of all my days."]}, {"id": "E1.11.58", "lines": ["Grant me such strength that no ant, day or night,", "Shall suffer through me, hidden from my sight.”"]}, {"id": "E1.11.59", "lines": ["With many tears he laid his spirit bare,", "And poured his heart before Yazdan in prayer."]}, {"id": "E1.11.60", "lines": ["Who in the world could find a king like him,", "Whose justice kept no subject’s future dim?"]}, {"id": "E1.11.61", "lines": ["Then from his place of prayer he rose to go;", "His troops prepared to march in ordered flow."]}, {"id": "E1.11.62", "lines": ["The karnays blared; the brazen cymbals cried,", "And thunder rolled from court on every side."]}, {"id": "E1.11.63", "lines": ["He called for horses, marshaled all the train,", "Invoking God, whose gifts forever remain."]}, {"id": "E1.11.64", "lines": ["He gathered crowns and belts, brocade and gold,", "With gems, bright silver, treasures manifold."]}, {"id": "E1.11.65", "lines": ["He took fine steeds and women from the court,", "With crowns and riches of the noblest sort."]}, {"id": "E1.11.66", "lines": ["The turquoise litter and the ivory seat,", "With heart-enchanting handmaids, fair and sweet,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.67", "lines": ["With servants of all ranks in fine array,", "He sent them on to Tisfoon that day."]}, {"id": "E1.11.68", "lines": ["Before them went the Chin-born women, veiled,", "While eunuchs guarded all, and none assailed."]}, {"id": "E1.11.69", "lines": ["Mehran Setad accompanied the queen,", "And served as guardian of the moving scene."]}, {"id": "E1.11.70", "lines": ["The Khan’s fair daughter, treasure, baggage, train,", "All journeyed on to Tisfoon’s broad plain."]}, {"id": "E1.11.71", "lines": ["A warrior band, the flower of the land,", "The noblest men who served at his command,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.72", "lines": ["On to Azar Abadagan they rode;", "From every land fresh troops in numbers flowed."]}, {"id": "E1.11.73", "lines": ["From Gilan and Dilaman the soldiers came,", "From Baluch mountains, desert lands by name,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.74", "lines": ["From Saruch’s plain the men of Kuch drew near,", "And laid their gifts before the Shah with cheer."]}, {"id": "E1.11.75", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced to see their strife now cease:", "“The wolf no longer preys upon the fleece.”"]}, {"id": "E1.11.76", "lines": ["Through ages strife with Kuch had never ceased,", "And cities knew distress that still increased."]}, {"id": "E1.11.77", "lines": ["Through Anooshirvan’s grace and royal power,", "The sky forsook its customs from that hour."]}, {"id": "E1.11.78", "lines": ["Wherever that great army used to pass,", "It harmed no crop, no water, bread, or grass."]}, {"id": "E1.11.79", "lines": ["They took no bread or water on their way,", "But made their beds where open country lay."]}, {"id": "E1.11.80", "lines": ["Thus Anooshirvan journeyed, and assessed", "Where loss had fallen, where the land was blessed."]}, {"id": "E1.11.81", "lines": ["He saw the whole world full of crops and grain,", "With sheep and oxen spread through hill and plain."]}, {"id": "E1.11.82", "lines": ["A place where none had lived or sown before,", "Where none had gathered harvest, crop, or store,"]}, {"id": "E1.11.83", "lines": ["He saw now peopled, bearing fruit, and tilled,", "With households thriving, granaries well filled."]}, {"id": "E1.11.84", "lines": ["The trees grew heavy through God’s farr divine,", "And through the Shah’s good fortune seemed to shine."]}, {"id": "E1.11.85", "lines": ["At one stage in the progress of the king,", "An envoy came from Caesar, gifts to bring."]}, {"id": "E1.11.86", "lines": ["He brought fine robes and silver, heaps of gold,", "With Roman jewels, brocade fold on fold."]}, {"id": "E1.11.87", "lines": ["The gifts were spread across the open ground;", "No greater tribute sent from Rum was found."]}, {"id": "E1.11.88", "lines": ["Ten ox-hides packed with minted coin were weighed,", "The yearly sum of tax owed, duly paid."]}, {"id": "E1.11.89", "lines": ["With these great presents Caesar sent a scroll,", "Addressed to that famed king of kingly soul."]}, {"id": "E1.11.90", "lines": ["They brought the envoy to the royal hall,", "And read the letter there before them all."]}, {"id": "E1.11.91", "lines": ["Its words were full of goodwill warm and clear,", "Concerning gifts that Caesar sent him here:"]}, {"id": "E1.11.92", "lines": ["“Hereafter I shall send you greater things;", "A crown is also owed the king of kings.”"]}, {"id": "E1.11.93", "lines": ["The Shah received the gifts and gave command", "To store them with the treasures of the land."]}, {"id": "E1.11.94", "lines": ["Then, turning from the gifts, he spurred his horse;", "Straight toward Azargashasp he held his course."]}, {"id": "E1.11.95", "lines": ["While still afar, he saw the holy place,", "And tears came flowing down his royal face."]}, {"id": "E1.11.96", "lines": ["He dismounted, with barsom in his hand,", "And prayed before the shrine on sacred land."]}, {"id": "E1.11.97", "lines": ["He reached the Fire, adored the Maker’s name,", "And bowed before the temple’s sacred flame."]}, {"id": "E1.11.98", "lines": ["He gave the bursar gold from all his store,", "And precious gems and treasures by the score."]}, {"id": "E1.11.99", "lines": ["On all the Mobadan his bounty flowed:", "Gold, silver, gems, and robes, a costly load."]}, {"id": "E1.11.100", "lines": ["Enriched, the priests drew near with cups to raise", "Before the sacred Fire in murmured praise."]}, {"id": "E1.11.101", "lines": ["They blessed the Shah who ruled the world, and then", "Toward Tisfoon he led his fighting men."]}, {"id": "E1.11.102", "lines": ["So vast the marching ranks, so dense their train,", "The earth seemed Mount Bistoon beneath their strain."]}, {"id": "E1.11.103", "lines": ["In every city where the Shah drew near,", "He gave the poor both silver and good cheer."]}, {"id": "E1.11.104", "lines": ["Yet though such wealth flowed freely from his hand,", "With treasure and with drachms he filled the land."]}, {"id": "E1.11.105", "lines": ["To proud Madain’s gates he came at last,", "Where Tisfoon’s vaulted halls held treasures vast;"]}, {"id": "E1.11.106", "lines": ["Within the royal vaults the hoards were laid,", "While all the court gave homage and obeyed."]}, {"id": "E1.11.107", "lines": ["Two hundred maidens graced the bride’s array,", "While wise Mehran Setad still led the way."]}, {"id": "E1.12.1", "lines": ["The Shah returned and sat upon his throne;", "Good fortune made his royal cause her own."]}, {"id": "E1.12.2", "lines": ["The world, through justice, wore a garden’s face,", "Adorned with wealth, good order, rest, and grace."]}, {"id": "E1.12.3", "lines": ["Strife, bloodshed, and injustice passed away,", "And grace divine renewed the world’s bright day."]}, {"id": "E1.12.4", "lines": ["Evil itself seemed shackled to the ground;", "No raid or plunder anywhere was found."]}, {"id": "E1.12.5", "lines": ["None stretched a hand toward wickedness or prey;", "All came from darkness to the righteous way."]}, {"id": "E1.12.6", "lines": ["If bright silver fell upon the public road,", "A thief would pass and fear to touch that load."]}, {"id": "E1.12.7", "lines": ["Brocade and gold lay out beneath the sky;", "No thief would dare to take them, passing by."]}, {"id": "E1.12.8", "lines": ["The Shah’s just rule transformed the earth to seem", "A Paradise, where wealth flowed like a stream."]}, {"id": "E1.12.9", "lines": ["Each valley, desert, province, open plain", "Was filled with treasure underneath his reign."]}, {"id": "E1.12.10", "lines": ["Dispatches went to every province wide,", "To every lord and man of name and pride."]}, {"id": "E1.12.11", "lines": ["From Turkistan, from Chin and Saklab came", "Great wares that magnified Iran’s fair fame."]}, {"id": "E1.12.12", "lines": ["Musk-bags, Chin silk, and Roman wares arrived,", "With goods from Hind, while every market thrived."]}, {"id": "E1.12.13", "lines": ["Iran became like Paradise in mirth;", "Its dust was musk, its bricks like gold on earth."]}, {"id": "E1.12.14", "lines": ["The world found rest; its misery withdrew,", "And happiness across the kingdom grew."]}, {"id": "E1.12.15", "lines": ["The breezes seemed to scatter fragrant spray;", "Men found relief from pain and fear each day."]}, {"id": "E1.12.16", "lines": ["Rain touched the rose in season from the sky,", "No violent downpour harmed the fields nearby."]}, {"id": "E1.12.17", "lines": ["The world grew full of herbage, flocks, and flowers,", "With blooming plains and valleys rich in bowers."]}, {"id": "E1.12.18", "lines": ["All streams seemed seas; the gardens shone with rose,", "Clustered like Pleiades where soft wind blows."]}, {"id": "E1.12.19", "lines": ["Men learned new tongues within Iran’s domain,", "And lit their souls with knowledge free from stain."]}, {"id": "E1.12.20", "lines": ["They thanked the Shah, their guide, and blessed his name;", "From every border wealthy traders came."]}, {"id": "E1.12.21", "lines": ["From Turkistan and Chin, from Hind and Rum,", "They came; each homestead’s herds outgrew their room."]}, {"id": "E1.12.22", "lines": ["All learned men and ready speakers found", "A place where honor spread their fame around."]}, {"id": "E1.12.23", "lines": ["The great, the learned, and the priests won fame;", "The wicked trembled when stern judgment came."]}, {"id": "E1.12.24", "lines": ["Whenever sunrise dressed the world in flame,", "The royal herald spoke in justice’s name:"]}, {"id": "E1.12.25", "lines": ["“O servants of the monarch of the earth,", "Hide no wrong deed, whatever rank or birth."]}, {"id": "E1.12.26", "lines": ["Whoever labors faithfully shall earn", "The fitting treasure given in return."]}, {"id": "E1.12.27", "lines": ["Bring every claim before our chamberlain;", "Through him our hand will ease all toil and pain."]}, {"id": "E1.12.28", "lines": ["If any creditor should press the poor,", "Our treasurer shall pay; their peace is sure."]}, {"id": "E1.12.29", "lines": ["The destitute shall not be harmed by debt;", "Our law shall free them from the lender’s net."]}, {"id": "E1.12.30", "lines": ["If any man invades another’s bed,", "By lust and lawless wickedness misled,"]}, {"id": "E1.12.31", "lines": ["While still the injured husband draws his breath,", "No pardon saves the culprit from his death;"]}, {"id": "E1.12.32", "lines": ["His wealth and goods are seized without delay,", "And to the injured husband given away."]}, {"id": "E1.12.33", "lines": ["If any steed should graze on tilth or grain,", "And cause the grieving farmer loss or pain,"]}, {"id": "E1.12.34", "lines": ["The horseman shall be stripped of mount and gear,", "To march on foot among the ranks severe."]}, {"id": "E1.12.35", "lines": ["The ruined harvest shall be paid in full,", "From what the soldier’s yearly wage would pull;"]}, {"id": "E1.12.36", "lines": ["The registrar shall strike his pay away,", "And dock one half his earnings for the day."]}, {"id": "E1.12.37", "lines": ["His name is canceled from the army’s roll;", "They raze his home to purge the sinful soul."]}, {"id": "E1.12.38", "lines": ["No wicked servant shall find favor here,", "Where only righteous men in truth draw near;"]}, {"id": "E1.12.39", "lines": ["Let none approach the threshold of the throne", "Who leaves the seeds of lawless injustice sown.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.1", "lines": ["One day the Shah sat joyful in his state,", "With wisdom’s greatest men before his gate."]}, {"id": "E1.13.2", "lines": ["He smiled with open face and words of cheer,", "And seated Bozorgmehr beside him near."]}, {"id": "E1.13.3", "lines": ["The sage spoke praise; the king’s heart blossomed bright,", "Like springtime gardens waking into light."]}, {"id": "E1.13.4", "lines": ["He said, “Just judge, bright-faced and proven true,", "May no fault-finder find a fault in you."]}, {"id": "E1.13.5", "lines": ["Blessed king of kings, whose fortune does not wane,", "Wise world-master, triumphant in your reign,"]}, {"id": "E1.13.6", "lines": ["I wrote in Pahlavi upon a scroll", "Of royal paper, counsel for the soul."]}, {"id": "E1.13.7", "lines": ["I gave your treasurer the words I penned,", "For you alone to read when duties end."]}, {"id": "E1.13.8", "lines": ["Yet heaven moves slowly with its hidden plan,", "And does not soon reveal its truth to man."]}, {"id": "E1.13.9", "lines": ["Suppose a man should leave the feast aside,", "And take his life in hand where armies ride;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.10", "lines": ["Suppose he sweeps the earth of every foe,", "And breaks the snares that Ahriman may throw;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.11", "lines": ["Suppose he rules the world, his will obeyed,", "Each wish fulfilled, his banners high displayed;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.12", "lines": ["Suppose by bravery he wins the earth,", "And fills his courts and gardens with its worth;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.13", "lines": ["Suppose he stores up wealth on every side,", "With sons around him, honor, joy, and pride;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.14", "lines": ["Suppose he gathers warriors, gold, and grain,", "And builds bright halls for pleasure in his reign;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.15", "lines": ["Suppose the poor toil hard beneath his hand,", "While treasure heaps up round him through the land;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.16", "lines": ["Still, willing or unwilling, he gains dust;", "His lifetime is too brief for lasting trust."]}, {"id": "E1.13.17", "lines": ["His span will not complete a hundred years;", "Death ends the toil of all his hopes and fears."]}, {"id": "E1.13.18", "lines": ["His riches will belong to hostile hands;", "No crown, no throne, no army with him stands."]}, {"id": "E1.13.19", "lines": ["No child, no treasury, no palace wall", "Will follow when his final shadows fall."]}, {"id": "E1.13.20", "lines": ["When he has ceased to chase each empty prize,", "Who will recall his name beneath the skies?"]}, {"id": "E1.13.21", "lines": ["Of all his acts when life has reached its close,", "A good name is the flower that still grows."]}, {"id": "E1.13.22", "lines": ["Two things endure within this passing frame;", "All else burns down to ash without a name:"]}, {"id": "E1.13.23", "lines": ["Choice sayings and good deeds remain in trust,", "When palaces and bodies turn to dust."]}, {"id": "E1.13.24", "lines": ["These last until the world’s last day is done;", "Remember this, auspicious royal one."]}, {"id": "E1.13.25", "lines": ["Time cannot spoil good fame or honest speech,", "No sun or rain or wind can dim their reach."]}, {"id": "E1.13.26", "lines": ["The modest, virtuous man alone is blessed;", "Avoid the faults that shame the inward breast."]}, {"id": "E1.13.27", "lines": ["Do harm to none, but help where help is due;", "So faith and precedent prescribe to you."]}, {"id": "E1.13.28", "lines": ["I leave behind these words for later need,", "Words that will never lose their living seed.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.29", "lines": ["He opened wide the king’s discerning heart;", "The Shah then questioned him on wisdom’s art."]}, {"id": "E1.13.30", "lines": ["“Who is the glorious man whose heart is glad,", "Who does not sigh, nor live in spirit sad?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.31", "lines": ["The sage replied, “The innocent alone,", "Whose heart the Div has never made his own."]}, {"id": "E1.13.32", "lines": ["The man who has not crossed the righteous line", "Can keep his heart at peace with law divine.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.33", "lines": ["The Shah asked next about the Div’s dark road,", "And God’s true way, where wisdom finds abode."]}, {"id": "E1.13.34", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr answered, “Follow God’s command;", "In both worlds it will help you firmly stand."]}, {"id": "E1.13.35", "lines": ["Farr comes from Him; the doorway into ill", "Leads toward the foe of those who serve God’s will."]}, {"id": "E1.13.36", "lines": ["The high-souled man is blessed throughout the earth,", "For modest holiness adorns his worth."]}, {"id": "E1.13.37", "lines": ["Since knowledge guards him, life gives him release;", "He dwells in righteousness and inward peace."]}, {"id": "E1.13.38", "lines": ["He knocks not at the door of guile or loss,", "Nor lets corrupt desire his spirit cross."]}, {"id": "E1.13.39", "lines": ["The body takes its share of what we gain;", "The soul shines bright beyond this mortal reign."]}, {"id": "E1.13.40", "lines": ["Yet he neglects neither body nor soul,", "But keeps both blade and scabbard sound and whole."]}, {"id": "E1.13.41", "lines": ["Let wisdom govern every wish and deed;", "Then give the soul the knowledge it will need."]}, {"id": "E1.13.42", "lines": ["Give no ear to the man who vaunts his name;", "His boastful words will dim your spirit’s flame."]}, {"id": "E1.13.43", "lines": ["Who fears not God will let desire be fed,", "While wisdom starves and withers in its stead."]}, {"id": "E1.13.44", "lines": ["His soul needs knowledge, yet he will not hear", "The wise instruction that would make it clear.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.45", "lines": ["Anooshirvan then asked, “Among the great,", "Who reaches highest rank in human state?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.46", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr said, “The one with deepest lore,", "Who rules desire and asks for nothing more.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.47", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Who is truly learned and wise,", "Since knowledge hides unseen from outward eyes?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.48", "lines": ["“He who does not, at the Div’s command,", "Sever his heart from God’s sustaining hand;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.49", "lines": ["Nor, through vain appetite, obey that foe", "Who traps the soul and brings the wise man low."]}, {"id": "E1.13.50", "lines": ["Ten Ahrimans possess a lion’s might,", "And overpower wisdom in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.51", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Name these Divs and make them plain,", "Since wisdom has good cause to mourn their reign.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.52", "lines": ["He answered: “Greed and Need hold foremost sway,", "Two ravenous Divs that lead the soul astray;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.53", "lines": ["Then Wrath and Envy, Shame and Vengeance fed,", "And Slander whispering what malice bred;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.54", "lines": ["Then Duplicity and Heresy combine,", "With base Ingratitude to Grace Divine.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.55", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Which is strongest of them all,", "And has most power to hold a soul in thrall?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.56", "lines": ["He answered, “Greed, the tyrant of the soul,", "Whose lasting power keeps men in its control."]}, {"id": "E1.13.57", "lines": ["You will not see him satisfied by gain;", "He labors always after more with pain."]}, {"id": "E1.13.58", "lines": ["Then Need comes next, pale-faced and full of care,", "Whose sleepless hunger drives men to despair;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.59", "lines": ["Then Envy wakes, a sickness cold and drear,", "That stirs up bloodshed, discord, strife, and fear."]}, {"id": "E1.13.60", "lines": ["His soul is pained when others prosper well;", "Their joy becomes to him a private hell."]}, {"id": "E1.13.61", "lines": ["Shame is another Div, inflamed and quick,", "Forever ready for some violent trick."]}, {"id": "E1.13.62", "lines": ["Revenge is wrathful, turbulent, and near,", "Swift to awaken battle-cries and fear."]}, {"id": "E1.13.63", "lines": ["It makes men loveless, harsh, and grim of face,", "Malignant, miserly, and void of grace."]}, {"id": "E1.13.64", "lines": ["Another, Slander, knows no trade but lies,", "And never lets a truthful word arise."]}, {"id": "E1.13.65", "lines": ["Then Double-dealing, two-faced, false in mind,", "Fears not the God who masters humankind."]}, {"id": "E1.13.66", "lines": ["It casts revenge and strife between two friends,", "And labors till the bond between them ends."]}, {"id": "E1.13.67", "lines": ["The last is thankless Ignorance in thought,", "A witless Div whom no good lesson taught."]}, {"id": "E1.13.68", "lines": ["He scorns sound counsel, modesty, and right;", "To him both good and evil share one light.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.69", "lines": ["The king then asked, “How does the Div assail", "The heart? What help from God will then prevail"]}, {"id": "E1.13.70", "lines": ["For servants, so that they may counteract", "The Div’s assault, its pressure, and its pact?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.71", "lines": ["That man of faith replied, “O Shah, take heed;", "Against the Divs, let wisdom guide each deed."]}, {"id": "E1.13.72", "lines": ["It is the jowshan that can check their blade,", "The guarded fortress where the heart finds aid."]}, {"id": "E1.13.73", "lines": ["It lights the sage’s heart and active mind,", "Records the past, and leaves no truth behind."]}, {"id": "E1.13.74", "lines": ["It nourishes the soul with truths made plain;", "May wisdom firmly guard your crown and reign."]}, {"id": "E1.13.75", "lines": ["The road before you stretches hard and long;", "Make wisdom second nature, firm and strong."]}, {"id": "E1.13.76", "lines": ["Then, fearless of the Div, the heart will stay", "In wholesome joy and shun desire’s way."]}, {"id": "E1.13.77", "lines": ["Now I will speak of hope, the heart’s true guide,", "That brings it joy and casts all fear aside."]}, {"id": "E1.13.78", "lines": ["The sage is always hopeful in his time,", "And sees in fortune happiness sublime."]}, {"id": "E1.13.79", "lines": ["He does not brood on evil for an hour,", "Nor bend like bows beneath misfortune’s power."]}, {"id": "E1.13.80", "lines": ["The contented man will never stretch his hand", "Toward treasure, nor exhaust himself for land."]}, {"id": "E1.13.81", "lines": ["Who scorns mere coin and treasure finds release,", "And passes all his numbered days in peace."]}, {"id": "E1.13.82", "lines": ["Who gives himself entirely to God’s law", "No wealth nor hardship from that faith can draw."]}, {"id": "E1.13.83", "lines": ["He fears no man enough to bend from right;", "No hidden evil clouds his inward sight."]}, {"id": "E1.13.84", "lines": ["By this same sign he proves his virtue clear:", "He trades not faith for profit drawing near.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.85", "lines": ["Said Anooshirvan, “Which is the royal way", "That leads us toward the good from day to day?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.86", "lines": ["He answered, “Wisdom’s road, beyond dispute,", "Surpasses every branch, and root, and fruit."]}, {"id": "E1.13.87", "lines": ["A kindly disposition also gives", "A man true honor every day he lives."]}, {"id": "E1.13.88", "lines": ["Of all good traits, the strongest, I declare,", "Is being content with one’s appointed share."]}, {"id": "E1.13.89", "lines": ["The sweetest comfort in our toil and care", "Is hope, which guards the heart against despair."]}, {"id": "E1.13.90", "lines": ["Of all these things, I find toil hardest borne:", "Its endless striving leaves a person worn.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.91", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “How may men achieve true worth?”", "“By shunning baseness, true to noble birth,"]}, {"id": "E1.13.92", "lines": ["And seeking good in both worlds till the end,", "With deeds that neither shame nor harm attend.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.93", "lines": ["“What sage is best?” the king went on to ask.", "“One mild of voice, whose kindness wears no mask."]}, {"id": "E1.13.94", "lines": ["He seeks no greatness save through wisdom’s art,", "Which far exceeds mere skill within the heart.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.95", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Which accomplishment is best,", "By which aspirants rise above the rest?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.96", "lines": ["He answered, “Knowledge, for the sage is great", "Among the great and stands above estate."]}, {"id": "E1.13.97", "lines": ["He does not clutch at treasure as his aim,", "Nor bind himself to toil for hollow fame.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.98", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Who is our most harmful foe,", "And seeks to lay our strength and wisdom low?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.99", "lines": ["He answered, “Evil deeds assail the soul,", "And rob both mind and wisdom of control.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.100", "lines": ["The righteous judge then asked, “Which has more worth:", "Acquired learning, or the gifts of birth?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.101", "lines": ["The sage replied, “Let learning be your guide;", "Its worth exceeds what birth alone supplied."]}, {"id": "E1.13.102", "lines": ["By learning is the soul adorned and wise;", "A claim of noble birth is swift to rise."]}, {"id": "E1.13.103", "lines": ["Without sound learning, noble birth is weak;", "A healthy soul needs more than words men speak.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.104", "lines": ["“How may the mind be polished, cleansed, and bright?", "What gifts adorn the body in men’s sight?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.105", "lines": ["He said, “Now hear my answer to the end;", "Recall these words, and let your mind attend."]}, {"id": "E1.13.106", "lines": ["Since wisdom is itself God’s robe of grace,", "No evil thought can touch its guarded place."]}, {"id": "E1.13.107", "lines": ["So one accomplished, yet conceited still,", "Deserves no credit for his practiced skill."]}, {"id": "E1.13.108", "lines": ["No wise man scorns the modest and the kind;", "Their gentle deeds reveal a worthy mind."]}, {"id": "E1.13.109", "lines": ["Though sages join high birth with generous hand,", "With knowledge, conduct, justice, firm command,"]}, {"id": "E1.13.110", "lines": ["Their greatness, rank, and uprightness will fall", "If vicious nature rules beneath them all.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.111", "lines": ["The Shah inquired, “O learned man, declare:", "Does greatness come from toil or Fortune’s care?"]}, {"id": "E1.13.112", "lines": ["Does any king gain crown and throne by deed,", "Or does good fortune grant the royal seed?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.113", "lines": ["He answered, “Toil and Fortune both combine,", "Like mates whose joined strength makes a ruler shine."]}, {"id": "E1.13.114", "lines": ["They join like soul and body, one revealed,", "The other living inward and concealed."]}, {"id": "E1.13.115", "lines": ["The body is man’s instrument for toil,", "When wakeful fortune rises from the soil."]}, {"id": "E1.13.116", "lines": ["Yet travail cannot make a great man rise", "Unless good fortune guides him toward the skies."]}, {"id": "E1.13.117", "lines": ["The world is wind and dreams that will not stay;", "Its passing visions fade and fall away."]}, {"id": "E1.13.118", "lines": ["When one awakes, the dream is soon withdrawn,", "Whether it brought delight or grief at dawn.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.119", "lines": ["A question stirred within the royal breast;", "The Shah asked, “Whom do people praise the best?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.120", "lines": ["He answered, “He who ornaments the throne,", "Whose strength from fortune is securely known,"]}, {"id": "E1.13.121", "lines": ["If he acts justly and earns good report,", "His deeds and words will prosper in the court.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.122", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Who is sorrowful and poor,", "Luckless, his labor fruitless, insecure?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.123", "lines": ["The sage replied, “The beggar steeped in vice", "Will lose both earth and hope of Paradise.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.124", "lines": ["“Who is the luckless one,” the king inquired,", "“For whom our tears and pity are required?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.125", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr answered, “Learned men brought low,", "Whose pallor tells the weight of grief they know.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.126", "lines": ["The Shah asked further, “Who is satisfied?", "Who has no further wish to be supplied?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.127", "lines": ["He answered, “He who does not fix his eye", "On revolutions of the turning sky.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.128", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan asked, “What man is best?”", "“The gentle man,” he said, “is truly blessed.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.129", "lines": ["“But who is gentle? Why,” the Shah pursued,", "“Do hasty men make hearts lament and brood?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.130", "lines": ["He answered, “One who shuns reproach and blame,", "And bars the strife that sets men’s hearts aflame."]}, {"id": "E1.13.131", "lines": ["That man has modesty and gentle grace,", "With wisdom, patience, counsel in their place.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.132", "lines": ["The famed king asked him, “Who has greatest hope", "Among mankind, and strongest will to cope?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.133", "lines": ["“The most industrious,” the sage replied,", "“Whose ears to knowledge stand forever wide.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.134", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “What of things beyond our sight,", "Of hidden knowledge, veiled from common light?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.135", "lines": ["He said, “Much news is told of things unknown;", "Yet nothing certain in such talk is shown."]}, {"id": "E1.13.136", "lines": ["They say that dust must be our final bed;", "Who knows the other world that lies ahead?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.137", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan asked, “What makes lands stand?", "What gives firm strength to throne and borderland?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.138", "lines": ["He answered, “Justice, wisely fortified,", "Establishes a land in peace and pride.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.139", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan asked, “Now tell me plain:", "Who is most prudent, subtle in his brain?"]}, {"id": "E1.13.140", "lines": ["Who wins approval everywhere he goes,", "As skill through passing years more brightly shows?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.141", "lines": ["He answered, “An old sage with patient eye,", "Made wise by all the years that have passed by.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.142", "lines": ["Said Anooshirvan, “Who is the happy man,", "Who lives upright and glad through all his span?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.143", "lines": ["He answered, “One who lives with little fear,", "And has sufficient wealth from year to year.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.144", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Who most merits worthy praise,", "And wins approval through his acts and ways?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.145", "lines": ["He answered, “He who hides his need, and curbs", "The baleful passions that the soul disturbs:"]}, {"id": "E1.13.146", "lines": ["Shame, envy, greed, revenge; each inward foe;", "Who conquers them wins honor high and low.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.147", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Who can best endure distress,", "And meet adversity with steadfastness?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.148", "lines": ["He said, “The man whose hopes have taken flight,", "Yet whose face shines as though with sunlight bright;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.149", "lines": ["Or else the man with little time to live,", "Who still begins vast tasks with all to give.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.150", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Who has grief so deeply cast", "That life itself seems too much care to last?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.151", "lines": ["He said, “The man whose fortune falls away,", "Whose hopes desert him in that bitter day.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.152", "lines": ["The exalted king asked, “Whose heart is sore,", "And set in sorrow at its inward core?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.153", "lines": ["The sage replied, “The man who is not wise,", "And wealthy childless men beneath the skies.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.154", "lines": ["“Whose heart,” the Shah asked, “bends beneath distress,", "Through trouble, grief, and harsh calamity’s press?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.155", "lines": ["He answered, “Upright men of knowledge yield", "When foolish rulers dominate the field.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.156", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Who is fullest of despair,", "Though power and high repute are his to bear?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.157", "lines": ["He said, “The man whose great designs go wrong,", "Though he has wealth and means, and stands so strong.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.158", "lines": ["Shah Anooshirvan asked, “Foresighted guide,", "Who lives without renown, set far aside,"]}, {"id": "E1.13.159", "lines": ["Yet still deserves the wise man’s love and grace,", "And pardon freely granted in each place?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.160", "lines": ["He answered, “One whose many faults are grave,", "A helpless man, to want and need a slave.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.161", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Who regrets the days gone by,", "When death draws near and he must surely die?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.162", "lines": ["He said, “The great king on his dying day,", "When death’s black cap descends and seals his way,"]}, {"id": "E1.13.163", "lines": ["Repents with terror-stricken heart and mind", "Of thankless years toward God he leaves behind."]}, {"id": "E1.13.164", "lines": ["And one who labored over distant lands", "For thankless men who scorned his faithful hands.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.165", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Sage in whom all gifts combine,", "Do you know anything of worth divine"]}, {"id": "E1.13.166", "lines": ["That profits heart and body while it stays", "Beloved by all throughout their living days?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.167", "lines": ["He answered, “Health; the heart in health will choose", "Its share of joy and dread that health to lose."]}, {"id": "E1.13.168", "lines": ["But when life fails through sickness and through pain,", "The body’s one desire is health to gain.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.169", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Once the wish for health is met,", "What further longing does the heart beget?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.170", "lines": ["He said, “When men stand high and free from need,", "The heart’s desires give rise to thought and deed."]}, {"id": "E1.13.171", "lines": ["When health and means suffice, the heart is free", "To seek the pleasures it would wish to see.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.172", "lines": ["The Shah then asked his guide, “What is the heart’s", "Chief care among its deepest inward parts?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.173", "lines": ["The sage replied, “There are three cares to name", "For one who asks about the heart’s true flame:"]}, {"id": "E1.13.174", "lines": ["First, fear about the evil coming day,", "Lest sudden harm should come and bar his way;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.175", "lines": ["Next, fear of treachery from a seeming friend,", "Who seeks one’s brain and blood before the end;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.176", "lines": ["And third, fear of a great unjust king’s will,", "Who cannot judge the good apart from ill."]}, {"id": "E1.13.177", "lines": ["How happy is the man who has obtained", "A prudent friend, by wisdom well sustained."]}, {"id": "E1.13.178", "lines": ["A thriving world and one great king made just;", "No greater gifts can heaven’s care entrust.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.179", "lines": ["The Shah next asked of faith and right, the means", "That banish fraud and falsehood from all scenes."]}, {"id": "E1.13.180", "lines": ["He answered, “Turn, O Shah, to those whose mind", "Through life and death to God remains inclined."]}, {"id": "E1.13.181", "lines": ["Such men recoil from guile and Div-born sin,", "In awe of God, whose laws they live within."]}, {"id": "E1.13.182", "lines": ["They heed the Master of the world; their creed", "They will not sell for profit or for greed.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.183", "lines": ["The Shah then asked concerning those who rule:", "“What virtues form the worthy monarch’s school?"]}, {"id": "E1.13.184", "lines": ["Which king is worthy of the crown and throne,", "And fit by right to make the realm his own?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.185", "lines": ["He answered, “One both just and truly wise,", "With counsel, modesty, and watchful eyes.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.186", "lines": ["The Shah then asked about old friends, the kind", "Who share our speech and ear, one heart, one mind."]}, {"id": "E1.13.187", "lines": ["He answered, “Noble hearts give friends their due,", "Both generous and just in all they do."]}, {"id": "E1.13.188", "lines": ["They wish no friend distress for others’ sake,", "But share the burden when his fortunes break.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.189", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Who has friends whose love runs deep,", "As close as blood and skin, a bond they keep?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.190", "lines": ["He said, “The man whose friends will not depart,", "Unless their faith should fail within the heart."]}, {"id": "E1.13.191", "lines": ["A kinder friend, whose deeds are better still,", "Will share his heart and serve with more goodwill.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.192", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Whom do bitter foes beset,", "Who finds in every man a rival’s threat?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.193", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr replied, “The insolent and vain", "Draw curses on themselves and enemies gain."]}, {"id": "E1.13.194", "lines": ["And one whose speech is harsh, whose face is grim,", "Who closes hand and heart to those near him.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.195", "lines": ["Then said the Shah, “Who is the constant friend,", "Who weeps for severance when bonds must end?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.196", "lines": ["He said, “A friend who neither fades nor dies,", "Who neither fears nor yields when troubles rise.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.197", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “What endures and will not fade?”", "“The kindness that to worthy friends is paid."]}, {"id": "E1.13.198", "lines": ["Such kindness from a good friend will not part;", "Its goodness stays forever with his heart.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.199", "lines": ["“What has the brightest luster?” asked the king,", "“And crowns the heads of all, the noblest thing?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.200", "lines": ["He said, “The sage’s mind, which understands", "And masters passion with commanding hands.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.201", "lines": ["The Shah said: “What is wider than the sky,", "And reaches higher than the heavens high?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.202", "lines": ["He answered: “First, a just king’s pardoning grace;", "Next, wisdom deep within the heart’s embrace.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.203", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “What brings grief beyond the rest", "To learned men, by wisdom greatly blessed?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.204", "lines": ["“O great king,” he replied, “do not bestow", "Your treasure where unholy tempers grow."]}, {"id": "E1.13.205", "lines": ["To deal with thankless hearts brings toil and pain,", "Like sun-dried bricks dissolved by falling rain.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.206", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “What is toil’s most bitter kind,", "Which drains the wealth a man has sought to find?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.207", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr replied, “The servant’s bitter part", "Beneath an evil king will break his heart."]}, {"id": "E1.13.208", "lines": ["The servant of a king of evil mind", "By toil will leave life, wealth, and self behind.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.209", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “What great wonder have you known,", "The greatest marvel that the world has shown?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.210", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr answered, “The revolving sky", "Is always wonderful to every eye."]}, {"id": "E1.13.211", "lines": ["You see a mighty ruler, crowned and proud,", "Exalted even to the darkest cloud,"]}, {"id": "E1.13.212", "lines": ["Yet he cannot discern his left from right,", "Nor tell his gain from loss by fortune’s light."]}, {"id": "E1.13.213", "lines": ["Another reads the high stars where they burn,", "And knows the causes by which heavens turn,"]}, {"id": "E1.13.214", "lines": ["Yet heaven drives him to a narrow place,", "And evil fortune rules his earthly race.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.215", "lines": ["“What thing,” the Shah asked, “weighs the soul like lead?”", "He answered, “Sin, which crushes heart and head.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.216", "lines": ["The Shah inquired, “Of shameful words and deeds,", "What foulest act from evil nature breeds?"]}, {"id": "E1.13.217", "lines": ["What greatest shame do all men join to scorn,", "And brand the deed with scars that must be worn?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.218", "lines": ["He answered, “Harshness in a king is shame,", "And persecution of those free from blame;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.219", "lines": ["The rich man’s meanness over food and dress,", "A miser clutching all he can possess;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.220", "lines": ["Shrill, shameless women; men who rage aloud;", "And poor men who are insolent and proud;"]}, {"id": "E1.13.221", "lines": ["And falsehood, whether in a king or man,", "Is ugly, vile, and foul in every plan.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.222", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “What, as jowshan, can avail", "The wise, and light the soul when shields would fail?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.223", "lines": ["He said, “Who strives for good and shuns disgrace", "Shall find no wound, but blessings in its place."]}, {"id": "E1.13.224", "lines": ["And thanks to God, which he will always pay,", "Mark the wise holy man upon his way.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.225", "lines": ["Said Anooshirvan, “What should kings pursue,", "And what should mighty men refuse to do?"]}, {"id": "E1.13.226", "lines": ["What should we keep or cast aside as wrong?", "What should we grasp, or speak of, pondering long?”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.227", "lines": ["He answered, “Keep firm mastery of your ire;", "No honor comes from wrath’s consuming fire."]}, {"id": "E1.13.228", "lines": ["Then guard your soul; do good while strength will last,", "And set aside your longing for the past."]}, {"id": "E1.13.229", "lines": ["Good deeds will make your soul shine clear and bright;", "Let them restore your spirit to the light."]}, {"id": "E1.13.230", "lines": ["Sin offers sweetness; yet its taste is vain:", "Shun sin, whose seeming pleasure ends in pain.”"]}, {"id": "E1.13.231", "lines": ["Thanks to Yazdan who rules the moon and sun:", "The counsel of the king and sage is done."]}, {"id": "E1.13.232", "lines": ["This labor weighed upon me; I must cease", "From lengthy speech, and give the body peace."]}]}, {"id": "E2", "title": "Chess, Wisdom, and the Kalila and Dimna", "summary": "4 sections · 887 couplets", "path": "/poem/e2/", "couplets": [{"id": "E2.1.1", "lines": ["Thus said the Mobad: On a royal day,", "The Shah adorned his throne with rich array."]}, {"id": "E2.1.2", "lines": ["His throne of polished ivory shone bright;", "Rum’s rich brocade lay gleaming in the light;"]}, {"id": "E2.1.3", "lines": ["A golden, gem-decked crown hung overhead,", "Whose pearls and rubies fiery luster shed."]}, {"id": "E2.1.4", "lines": ["He moved the crown above that kingly seat,", "Until all splendor seemed in him complete."]}, {"id": "E2.1.5", "lines": ["The palace seemed all throne, the throne all king;", "The court, an army, formed a guarded ring."]}, {"id": "E2.1.6", "lines": ["The marzbans and Mobadan filled the hall,", "From Balkh and Bami, summoned one and all."]}, {"id": "E2.1.7", "lines": ["Then watchful men brought tidings to the throne,", "And made the coming of Hind’s envoy known:"]}, {"id": "E2.1.8", "lines": ["“The envoy of the king of Hind has come,", "With costly gifts; a rich and princely sum."]}, {"id": "E2.1.9", "lines": ["He brings gold parasols of royal height,", "Great elephants and Sindhi horsemen bright."]}, {"id": "E2.1.10", "lines": ["A thousand camel-loads of gifts he brings;", "He seeks the presence of the king of kings.”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.11", "lines": ["The watchful Shah, on hearing this report,", "Sent troops to welcome him before the court."]}, {"id": "E2.1.12", "lines": ["The envoy of that famed and powerful lord", "Came to the Shah, with homage in accord."]}, {"id": "E2.1.13", "lines": ["He bowed, as noble custom had decreed,", "And praised the Maker first in word and deed."]}, {"id": "E2.1.14", "lines": ["He gave the Shah rich gems from many lands,", "With elephants and earrings from his hands."]}, {"id": "E2.1.15", "lines": ["Those Indian parasols were bright with gold,", "With many jewels in their fabric rolled."]}, {"id": "E2.1.16", "lines": ["He opened bales within the royal place,", "And spread their contents out before his face."]}, {"id": "E2.1.17", "lines": ["Gold, silver, musk, and ambergris were shown,", "With fresh, sweet aloe-wood before the throne."]}, {"id": "E2.1.18", "lines": ["Bright rubies gleamed, and diamonds caught the light,", "And patterned blades from Hind shone keen and bright."]}, {"id": "E2.1.19", "lines": ["The Raja had amassed from every hand", "The goods of far Ghanooj and of Mai’s land."]}, {"id": "E2.1.20", "lines": ["Before the throne they laid the whole display;", "The sleepless prince surveyed the bright array."]}, {"id": "E2.1.21", "lines": ["Then to his treasury he sent the hoard,", "All that the Raja’s wealth had richly stored."]}, {"id": "E2.1.22", "lines": ["The envoy next brought forth the Raja’s scroll,", "On silk inscribed, a message rich and whole."]}, {"id": "E2.1.23", "lines": ["He brought a gift on which great wealth was spent:", "A chessboard fashioned as a challenge sent."]}, {"id": "E2.1.24", "lines": ["The man of Hind conveyed the Raja’s word:", "“May you endure while heaven’s wheels are stirred."]}, {"id": "E2.1.25", "lines": ["Command your learned men, with toil and care,", "To set this chessboard and its laws lay bare."]}, {"id": "E2.1.26", "lines": ["Let them apply their wits and closely scan", "How this fine game is played, and learn its plan."]}, {"id": "E2.1.27", "lines": ["Let them discover how each piece is named,", "Its square and move, and how its force is framed."]}, {"id": "E2.1.28", "lines": ["Let them learn footman, elephant, and horse,", "The Rukh, the king, and the counselor’s course."]}, {"id": "E2.1.29", "lines": ["Let them discern each piece’s ordered way,", "And how each moves when battle joins the fray."]}, {"id": "E2.1.30", "lines": ["If they discover all this subtle game,", "And prove their wisdom worthy of its fame,"]}, {"id": "E2.1.31", "lines": ["Then, as the Shah commands, I will convey", "Full tribute to his court without delay."]}, {"id": "E2.1.32", "lines": ["But if the Iranian nobles cannot find", "The secret rules this challenge keeps confined,"]}, {"id": "E2.1.33", "lines": ["Then, since their knowledge has not matched our claim,", "Let them demand no tribute in your name."]}, {"id": "E2.1.34", "lines": ["Instead, let Iran’s tribute to us flow,", "For knowledge is the best thing man can know.”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.35", "lines": ["Anooshirvan heard the message through,", "And weighed the challenge placed before his view."]}, {"id": "E2.1.36", "lines": ["They set the board and pieces near the king;", "He studied every emblem, rank, and thing."]}, {"id": "E2.1.37", "lines": ["Half of the set was ivory, clear and bright,", "The other teak, dark-hued against the light."]}, {"id": "E2.1.38", "lines": ["The Shah, whose fortune never slept, inquired", "About the board and pieces he admired."]}, {"id": "E2.1.39", "lines": ["The envoy said, “O king, this whole display", "Is war’s own emblem shaped in artful play."]}, {"id": "E2.1.40", "lines": ["When you have solved it, you will understand", "The tactics, plan, and order of command."]}, {"id": "E2.1.41", "lines": ["The field of battle and its ranks appear", "Within this board when wisdom’s eye is clear.”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.42", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “One week of time I claim;", "Upon the eighth day we shall play the game.”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.43", "lines": ["They lodged the envoy in a pleasant place,", "With honor fitting rank and royal grace."]}, {"id": "E2.1.44", "lines": ["The chiefs and Mobadan, grave men and shrewd,", "Came to the Shah to share his anxious mood."]}, {"id": "E2.1.45", "lines": ["Before them lay the chessboard, strange and bright;", "They studied it by day and into night."]}, {"id": "E2.1.46", "lines": ["They searched its form and tested every move,", "Yet found no scheme their reasoning could prove."]}, {"id": "E2.1.47", "lines": ["One spoke and questioned; one would ponder long,", "Yet none could say where all the men belong."]}, {"id": "E2.1.48", "lines": ["At last they left in gloom and inward shame,", "Unable to unlock that hidden game."]}, {"id": "E2.1.49", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr came to the troubled king,", "And saw his vexed heart under sorrow’s sting."]}, {"id": "E2.1.50", "lines": ["He saw, before he undertook the art,", "The task’s beginning and its hidden heart."]}, {"id": "E2.1.51", "lines": ["He said, “Great king, whose wisdom frames the law,", "Vigilant Shah who keeps the world in awe,"]}, {"id": "E2.1.52", "lines": ["I shall discover all this clever game,", "With wisdom for my guide and fortune’s flame.”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.53", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “This charge shall now be yours;", "May wisdom open all its hidden doors."]}, {"id": "E2.1.54", "lines": ["Else now the Raja of Ghanooj will say,", "‘The Shah had not one counselor that day.’"]}, {"id": "E2.1.55", "lines": ["That would become a mighty public stain", "On Mobadan, my court, and royal reign.”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.56", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr took board and men in hand,", "And bent his mind their secret to command."]}, {"id": "E2.1.57", "lines": ["He tested left and right, and sought to trace", "Each movement and each piece’s proper place."]}, {"id": "E2.1.58", "lines": ["He found the game within one day and night,", "Then hastened to the Shah with inward light."]}, {"id": "E2.1.59", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah whose fortune wins the field,", "This board and pieces now their secrets yield."]}, {"id": "E2.1.60", "lines": ["I studied them and understand them all,", "Your fortune came in answer to my call."]}, {"id": "E2.1.61", "lines": ["Now call the Raja’s envoy; let him see", "The game unfolded as it ought to be."]}, {"id": "E2.1.62", "lines": ["The king of kings should see it first and say,", "‘A battlefield is shown in this array.’”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.63", "lines": ["The king rejoiced and praised him as one blessed,", "By fortune favored more than all the rest."]}, {"id": "E2.1.64", "lines": ["He bade Mobadan, nobles, sages wise", "Attend as chess unfolded to their eyes."]}, {"id": "E2.1.65", "lines": ["He called the Raja’s envoy to the hall,", "And seated him before the king and all."]}, {"id": "E2.1.66", "lines": ["Then eloquent Bozorgmehr spoke aloud:", "“Priest of the Raja, honored by this crowd,"]}, {"id": "E2.1.67", "lines": ["What words did your sun-faced monarch say", "When he entrusted these to you that day?"]}, {"id": "E2.1.68", "lines": ["What charge did he entrust to you to bear?", "May wisdom be your friend in every care.”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.69", "lines": ["The envoy said, “The Raja charged me so", "Before I left his court, prepared to go:"]}, {"id": "E2.1.70", "lines": ["‘Carry these pieces, ivory and teak,", "To him whose crown and throne of kingship speak."]}, {"id": "E2.1.71", "lines": ["Say: Gather counselors and Mobadan near,", "And set these pieces where they all appear."]}, {"id": "E2.1.72", "lines": ["If they discover how this game is played,", "And master every law its craft has laid,"]}, {"id": "E2.1.73", "lines": ["We shall send gold and slaves and tribute then,", "As much as can be gathered from our men."]}, {"id": "E2.1.74", "lines": ["A king’s true worth springs more from what he knows", "Than treasure, armies, or the wealth he shows."]}, {"id": "E2.1.75", "lines": ["But if the Shah and sages fail the test,", "And Hind’s assembled wisdom proves the best,"]}, {"id": "E2.1.76", "lines": ["Let him demand no tribute from our hand,", "Nor seek our treasure from the Indian land."]}, {"id": "E2.1.77", "lines": ["Then let his court repent its fruitless toil,", "And send us greater wealth from Iran’s soil.’”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.78", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr set board and men in line,", "Before the throne where sleepless fortunes shine."]}, {"id": "E2.1.79", "lines": ["He said to chiefs and Mobadan, “Be wise;", "Attend his words and judge where counsel lies.”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.80", "lines": ["The sage transformed the board to warlike ground,", "The king at center, with his troops around."]}, {"id": "E2.1.81", "lines": ["He drew the forces up on left and right,", "With eager footmen foremost in the fight."]}, {"id": "E2.1.82", "lines": ["Beside the king, the counselor had place,", "To guide his thought when battle changed its face."]}, {"id": "E2.1.83", "lines": ["On either flank the elephants were set,", "As though for war the opposing armies met."]}, {"id": "E2.1.84", "lines": ["Beside them stood the chargers for the fray,", "With two wise riders placed in that array."]}, {"id": "E2.1.85", "lines": ["The warrior Rukhs stood mounted on each wing,", "And fought on right and left to guard the king."]}, {"id": "E2.1.86", "lines": ["He set the board, then challenged Hind’s own peer,", "And played three games before the court austere;"]}, {"id": "E2.1.87", "lines": ["Three times they strove, three times the sage prevailed,", "While all the Indian envoy’s tactics failed."]}, {"id": "E2.1.88", "lines": ["The envoy out of Hind was vexed and stirred,", "Amazed by all he witnessed and had heard."]}, {"id": "E2.1.89", "lines": ["He marveled at that man of sleepless mind,", "That wizard-sage whose equal none could find."]}, {"id": "E2.1.90", "lines": ["“He never saw this chessboard or its play,", "Nor heard our Indian masters teach the way."]}, {"id": "E2.1.91", "lines": ["I never taught him how these pieces go;", "How did he learn the rules I did not show?"]}, {"id": "E2.1.92", "lines": ["No other man could hold the post he bears,", "Or match the depth of judgment that he shares.”"]}, {"id": "E2.1.93", "lines": ["Anooshirvan gave Bozorgmehr high praise,", "As though good Fortune crowned his sleepless days."]}, {"id": "E2.1.94", "lines": ["A robe of honor for the sage was made;", "And royal gems within a cup were laid."]}, {"id": "E2.1.95", "lines": ["A purse of dinars and a saddled steed", "He gave, with praise for such a skillful deed."]}, {"id": "E2.2.1", "lines": ["The sage returned from court to his own place,", "And set a board and compass in that space."]}, {"id": "E2.2.2", "lines": ["He chose a darkened room to sharpen thought,", "And weighed the Indian subtlety he sought."]}, {"id": "E2.2.3", "lines": ["He sought a game to make the wise declare", "Its intricate design a wonder rare."]}, {"id": "E2.2.4", "lines": ["In meditation, closed from outward sight,", "He brought the hidden laws of nard to light."]}, {"id": "E2.2.5", "lines": ["He fashioned thirty counters for the fight,", "Half dark as teak, half ivory clear and white;"]}, {"id": "E2.2.6", "lines": ["Two cubic dice of bone he made beside,", "By which the roll of fortune should decide."]}, {"id": "E2.2.7", "lines": ["Four quarters on the wooden board he planned,", "As the four seasons rule throughout the land;"]}, {"id": "E2.2.8", "lines": ["Twelve points on either side were scored and set,", "Like the twelve months where day and night are met."]}, {"id": "E2.2.9", "lines": ["The board was set as a four-quartered ground;", "The dice commanded where each troop was bound."]}, {"id": "E2.2.10", "lines": ["Neither could take the other in the game;", "The movements granted each were just the same."]}, {"id": "E2.2.11", "lines": ["Their troops beneath their rule on either side", "Stood keen for battle, full of warlike pride."]}, {"id": "E2.2.12", "lines": ["If two friends caught one isolated foe,", "The pair could strike and lay that lone man low."]}, {"id": "E2.2.13", "lines": ["The player steers the counter with his skill,", "Yet waits upon the dice to work their will;"]}, {"id": "E2.2.14", "lines": ["For chess is wisdom, labor, and foresight,", "While nard joins human skill with Heaven’s might:"]}, {"id": "E2.2.15", "lines": ["Man guides the march, but Fate’s revolving wheel", "Decrees the fortune that the dice reveal."]}, {"id": "E2.2.16", "lines": ["So long as neither side was overthrown,", "The armies held the field before each throne."]}, {"id": "E2.2.17", "lines": ["Thus Bozorgmehr invented nard and went", "To tell the Shah the wisdom that it meant."]}, {"id": "E2.2.18", "lines": ["He showed each detail to the king whose heart", "Was filled with wonder at the sage’s art."]}, {"id": "E2.2.19", "lines": ["The Shah reviewed the movements of the game,", "Responding now with praise, and now with blame:"]}, {"id": "E2.2.20", "lines": ["“O ardent soul, may you forever stay", "As young in fortune as a springtime day.”"]}, {"id": "E2.2.21", "lines": ["He bade the keeper of the camels bring", "Two thousand beasts before the court and king."]}, {"id": "E2.2.22", "lines": ["He loaded them with tribute, tax, and store", "From Rum and Chin and many a distant shore,"]}, {"id": "E2.2.23", "lines": ["From Heytal, from Makran, from Iran’s land,", "And from the treasury under his command."]}, {"id": "E2.2.24", "lines": ["When camel-loads were fixed in full array,", "The caravan stood ready for the way."]}, {"id": "E2.2.25", "lines": ["That care then lifted from the monarch’s heart;", "He called Hind’s envoy near before the start."]}, {"id": "E2.2.26", "lines": ["He spoke of knowledge, wisdom, and the throne,", "Then wrote the Raja counsels of his own."]}, {"id": "E2.2.27", "lines": ["His letter brimmed with counsel, sense, and grace,", "With pleasant speech in every balanced place."]}, {"id": "E2.2.28", "lines": ["He first gave praises to Yazdan of light,", "His refuge from the Div’s consuming might."]}, {"id": "E2.2.29", "lines": ["Then said, “High Raja, famed through Hind’s wide land,", "From Sind to where Ghanooj’s waters stand,"]}, {"id": "E2.2.30", "lines": ["Your envoy came before us, wise and great,", "With elephants and parasols of state,"]}, {"id": "E2.2.31", "lines": ["With escort, tribute, and the game of chess;", "I heard the Raja’s challenge, his address."]}, {"id": "E2.2.32", "lines": ["The task is done; we asked for time to see", "How chess was played and what its rules might be."]}, {"id": "E2.2.33", "lines": ["A prudent Mobad, holy in his deed,", "Sought how the game was played and found its seed."]}, {"id": "E2.2.34", "lines": ["Now that wise Mobad comes before your gate,", "At high Ghanooj, with gifts of royal state."]}, {"id": "E2.2.35", "lines": ["Two thousand heavy camel-loads he brings,", "As worthy gifts from him, the king of kings."]}, {"id": "E2.2.36", "lines": ["For chess we have exchanged the game of nard;", "Let Hind’s wise men now test this challenge hard."]}, {"id": "E2.2.37", "lines": ["If Hind’s wise Brahmans can discern the play,", "And bring its hidden workings into day,"]}, {"id": "E2.2.38", "lines": ["The Raja may consign to his own store", "The wealth we send, and keep it evermore."]}, {"id": "E2.2.39", "lines": ["But if the Raja and his counselors try", "To solve this nard and fail beneath the sky,"]}, {"id": "E2.2.40", "lines": ["Then by our covenant he must command", "As many camels loaded from his land"]}, {"id": "E2.2.41", "lines": ["As we have sent, and send them back with ours,", "With every load and gift within his powers."]}, {"id": "E2.2.42", "lines": ["Such is our pact, our bargain, and our word;", "Let wisdom judge the answer it has heard.”"]}, {"id": "E2.2.43", "lines": ["When sunlight stood radiant in the sky,", "Bozorgmehr left the Shah with purpose high."]}, {"id": "E2.2.44", "lines": ["With baggage, letter, and the game of nard,", "He rode with purpose, watchful and on guard."]}, {"id": "E2.2.45", "lines": ["From Iran he came before the Raja’s seat,", "The Brahman guiding him with willing feet."]}, {"id": "E2.2.46", "lines": ["He stood before the Raja’s lofty throne,", "And saw his crown and fortune brightly shown."]}, {"id": "E2.2.47", "lines": ["In Pahlavi he praised the Raja’s reign,", "Then gave the scroll, its message to make plain."]}, {"id": "E2.2.48", "lines": ["He spoke the verbal message of the king,", "With all the weight that royal words should bring."]}, {"id": "E2.2.49", "lines": ["The Raja’s face grew bright with joy that day,", "As gracious pleasure on his features lay."]}, {"id": "E2.2.50", "lines": ["The message told of chess and all its pains,", "The tribute sent, the stakes, the hoped-for gains."]}, {"id": "E2.2.51", "lines": ["It told how chess had fared, its rules and play,", "The pieces and the king’s appointed way."]}, {"id": "E2.2.52", "lines": ["It told how king and counselor should move,", "And every battle-plan the pieces prove."]}, {"id": "E2.2.53", "lines": ["It told as well the triumph of the sage,", "Who made nard as a rival on the stage."]}, {"id": "E2.2.54", "lines": ["It ended, “Let the Raja read and act,", "And swerve not from the right nor break the pact.”"]}, {"id": "E2.2.55", "lines": ["The Raja’s face grew pallid at the word,", "When chess and nard together had been heard."]}, {"id": "E2.2.56", "lines": ["A high official came with welcome kind,", "And fitting lodgings graciously assigned."]}, {"id": "E2.2.57", "lines": ["A cheerful residence was soon prepared,", "And wine and harp and minstrelsy were shared."]}, {"id": "E2.2.58", "lines": ["The Raja asked for seven days of grace;", "The lights of learning gathered in one place."]}, {"id": "E2.2.59", "lines": ["He summoned all the elders of his court,", "And laid before them nard, the Persian sport."]}, {"id": "E2.2.60", "lines": ["For one whole week the shrewdest nobles pored,", "Heads bent together, on the Persian board."]}, {"id": "E2.2.61", "lines": ["They sought through rivalry, through fame and pride,", "To learn the rules its hidden moves implied."]}, {"id": "E2.2.62", "lines": ["Upon the eighth day, one sage spoke in shame:", "“No mind among us understands this game."]}, {"id": "E2.2.63", "lines": ["The player needs a sage’s discerning soul", "To read these pieces and discern the whole.”"]}, {"id": "E2.2.64", "lines": ["The Raja’s heart grew troubled at their word,", "And sorrow crossed his brow at what he heard."]}, {"id": "E2.2.65", "lines": ["Upon the ninth day Bozorgmehr drew near,", "His face intent, his purpose firm and clear."]}, {"id": "E2.2.66", "lines": ["He said, “The Shah gave me no leave to stay,", "Nor should I burden him with long delay.”"]}, {"id": "E2.2.67", "lines": ["The learned nobles then withdrew aside,", "And owned their ignorance without their pride."]}, {"id": "E2.2.68", "lines": ["When Bozorgmehr had heard, he took his place,", "While all the sages watched with solemn face."]}, {"id": "E2.2.69", "lines": ["He set the board of nard before their eyes,", "And showed the movements hidden from the wise."]}, {"id": "E2.2.70", "lines": ["He showed the leader and his warlike train,", "The royal power and order of campaign."]}, {"id": "E2.2.71", "lines": ["He showed how pieces moved, how battles grew,", "And brought the hidden rules to open view."]}, {"id": "E2.2.72", "lines": ["The Raja and his counselors were amazed,", "The whole assembly wondering as they gazed."]}, {"id": "E2.2.73", "lines": ["At Bozorgmehr the chiefs all cried acclaim,", "And hailed him holy sage of learned fame."]}, {"id": "E2.2.74", "lines": ["The Raja questioned him about his lore,", "And every answer satisfied him more."]}, {"id": "E2.2.75", "lines": ["Then from the sages and the scholars came", "A rising cry that magnified his name:"]}, {"id": "E2.2.76", "lines": ["“Behold an eloquent and learned man,", "Beyond mere games, beyond the common span."]}, {"id": "E2.2.77", "lines": ["He is not only skilled at chess and nard,", "But wisdom’s keeper and her chosen guard.”"]}, {"id": "E2.2.78", "lines": ["The Raja had two thousand camels brought,", "And loaded tribute there as honor taught:"]}, {"id": "E2.2.79", "lines": ["With camphor, ambergris, and aloe rare,", "With gold, rich garments, silver, jewels fair."]}, {"id": "E2.2.80", "lines": ["One year’s full tribute also he supplied,", "And sent it from his court in royal pride."]}, {"id": "E2.2.81", "lines": ["From his own treasure came a crown and robe,", "Renowned throughout the kingdoms of the globe."]}, {"id": "E2.2.82", "lines": ["He gave them both to Bozorgmehr with praise,", "And honored all his suite with lavish ways."]}, {"id": "E2.2.83", "lines": ["So from Ghanooj the honored sage withdrew,", "His head held high beneath the heavens blue."]}, {"id": "E2.2.84", "lines": ["He bore his first two thousand loads, restored,", "With gifts and tribute added to the hoard."]}, {"id": "E2.2.85", "lines": ["No one had seen so vast a caravan,", "Nor wealth so great since counting first began."]}, {"id": "E2.2.86", "lines": ["A letter from the Raja praised the king,", "In Hind’s own script, which he was glad to bring."]}, {"id": "E2.2.87", "lines": ["On silk it read: “The Raja and his peers", "Bear witness freely, with no threats or fears,"]}, {"id": "E2.2.88", "lines": ["That none has ever seen a Shah so great,", "Nor heard his equal named in any state."]}, {"id": "E2.2.89", "lines": ["No priest has told us of a king so wise,", "Nor minister whose peer has met our eyes."]}, {"id": "E2.2.90", "lines": ["His treasury of knowledge is the sky;", "Before such wisdom, earthly stores run dry."]}, {"id": "E2.2.91", "lines": ["The tribute for the year was sent before,", "And more shall come if you demand still more."]}, {"id": "E2.2.92", "lines": ["The stakes concerning both the games are sent,", "According to the bargain and intent.”"]}, {"id": "E2.2.93", "lines": ["When news arrived that Bozorgmehr drew near,", "His mission crowned with triumph and good cheer,"]}, {"id": "E2.2.94", "lines": ["Glad at the news, the Shah gave his command", "That chiefs go forth with warriors of the land."]}, {"id": "E2.2.95", "lines": ["They rode with joy the honored sage to meet,", "And brought him in with splendor through the street."]}, {"id": "E2.2.96", "lines": ["His entry through the city seemed the same", "As one who came from conquest, crowned with fame."]}, {"id": "E2.2.97", "lines": ["When that wise counselor approached the Shah,", "He praised him long with reverence and awe."]}, {"id": "E2.2.98", "lines": ["The Shah embraced him, asking of the road,", "The Raja, and what hardships fate bestowed."]}, {"id": "E2.2.99", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr recounted all his way,", "The turns of fortune, Heaven’s help each day."]}, {"id": "E2.2.100", "lines": ["He brought the Raja’s letter to the throne,", "And laid it where its message could be known."]}, {"id": "E2.2.101", "lines": ["The Shah commanded Yazdegard the scribe", "To come and read before the learned tribe."]}, {"id": "E2.2.102", "lines": ["When he had read the Raja’s letter through,", "The gathered court stood wondering at the view:"]}, {"id": "E2.2.103", "lines": ["They marveled at the counsel of the sage,", "And at the Shah, the glory of the age."]}, {"id": "E2.2.104", "lines": ["The Shah then said, “Give praise to God above,", "Who gave me such a sage to serve with love."]}, {"id": "E2.2.105", "lines": ["The great serve gladly underneath my crown,", "And love for me has bound their spirits down.”"]}, {"id": "E2.2.106", "lines": ["Give thanks to Him, Yazdan of moon and sun,", "Through whom both mastery and victory are won."]}, {"id": "E2.2.107", "lines": ["The tale that follows now is stranger still", "Than Bozorgmehr’s renowned and wondrous skill."]}, {"id": "E2.2.108", "lines": ["Of Talkhand and of chess I now shall tell,", "And how that ancient wonder first befell."]}, {"id": "E2.3.1", "lines": ["Thus Shahvi spoke, the ancient sage of old,", "Attend now well to what his tale has told."]}, {"id": "E2.3.2", "lines": ["There lived a king in Hind in former days,", "Mighty in arms and crowned with wealth and praise."]}, {"id": "E2.3.3", "lines": ["Jamhur his name, renowned in every land,", "Whose valor passed famed Foor’s heroic hand."]}, {"id": "E2.3.4", "lines": ["So ardent was this king, so watchful-wise,", "That all men honored him beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "E2.3.5", "lines": ["From fair Kashmir as far as Chin’s wide bound,", "All chieftains bowed where his command was found."]}, {"id": "E2.3.6", "lines": ["The world lay in his grasp through power and grace,", "And Sandali became his dwelling-place."]}, {"id": "E2.3.7", "lines": ["There stood his throne, his treasures, and his court,", "His signet-ring, his crown, his royal port."]}, {"id": "E2.3.8", "lines": ["Jamhur was reverent, learned, rich in lore,", "Preeminent in wisdom’s guarded store."]}, {"id": "E2.3.9", "lines": ["His lieges, courtier, townsman, servant, all,", "Blessed his rule in market, street, and hall."]}, {"id": "E2.3.10", "lines": ["He had a worthy wife, a prudent queen,", "Learned, accomplished, gentle, pure and keen."]}, {"id": "E2.3.11", "lines": ["One night she bore a son like him in face;", "The king beheld the child with royal grace."]}, {"id": "E2.3.12", "lines": ["He named the infant Gav, his royal boy;", "But brief was Jamhur’s time to share that joy."]}, {"id": "E2.3.13", "lines": ["Jamhur grew weak as sickness worked its will,", "Then joined the dead when life at last grew still."]}, {"id": "E2.3.14", "lines": ["He left to Gav a world where justice shone,", "Though infant Gav could not yet rule alone."]}, {"id": "E2.3.15", "lines": ["For crown and girdle he was still too small,", "And dust was heaped upon the chieftains all."]}, {"id": "E2.3.16", "lines": ["Their hearts were sorrowful because he died;", "The world remembered bounty, feast, and pride."]}, {"id": "E2.3.17", "lines": ["His justice, lavish gifts, and royal name", "Remained among them like a living flame."]}, {"id": "E2.3.18", "lines": ["The chiefs and townsfolk gathered, filled with fear,", "And took their counsel when distress drew near:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.19", "lines": ["“This little infant knows not court or state,", "Nor justice, throne, command, or royal fate."]}, {"id": "E2.3.20", "lines": ["The realm will suffer if no grown king reigns;", "A child cannot hold rule through such domains.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.21", "lines": ["The monarch had a brother, wise and strong,", "Fit for the throne and royal rule lifelong."]}, {"id": "E2.3.22", "lines": ["His name was Mai; of Danbar he was lord,", "Where idols stood, in rich attire adored."]}, {"id": "E2.3.23", "lines": ["The veteran chiefs who searched to choose a king", "Turned all to Danbar for the royal ring."]}, {"id": "E2.3.24", "lines": ["From Sandali they turned their faces round,", "And chiefs from Chin’s far march desired him crowned."]}, {"id": "E2.3.25", "lines": ["The potentates of Kashmir all agreed", "To hail him king, the ruler they would heed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.26", "lines": ["The noble Mai from Danbar took his seat", "Upon the throne, his rise to rule complete."]}, {"id": "E2.3.27", "lines": ["He placed Jamhur’s bright crown upon his head,", "And justice with his bounteous rule was spread."]}, {"id": "E2.3.28", "lines": ["He took Gav’s mother as his wife and queen,", "And cherished her, his life, with love serene."]}, {"id": "E2.3.29", "lines": ["By Mai that fairy-faced fair queen conceived;", "Her fortune rose, in heaven’s grace received."]}, {"id": "E2.3.30", "lines": ["She bore Talkhand within that royal land;", "The mighty monarch blessed him, hand in hand."]}, {"id": "E2.3.31", "lines": ["He loved that infant with his whole heart’s fire,", "And cherished him with every fond desire."]}, {"id": "E2.3.32", "lines": ["Talkhand was two, and Gav was seven years old;", "And Gav already showed a warrior’s mold."]}, {"id": "E2.3.33", "lines": ["He grew a mighty warrior, strong in frame,", "While youthful glory gathered round his name."]}, {"id": "E2.3.34", "lines": ["Then Mai fell ill; his glad heart turned to care,", "And grief began to thicken in the air."]}, {"id": "E2.3.35", "lines": ["He languished, sick, two weeks in bitter dread,", "Then left the world and joined the silent dead."]}, {"id": "E2.3.36", "lines": ["All Sandali was sorrowful and cried,", "And burned with anguish when the monarch died."]}, {"id": "E2.3.37", "lines": ["They mourned their king for one full month in grief;", "The troops assembled, seeking some relief."]}, {"id": "E2.3.38", "lines": ["The great men and the warriors of the state,", "All versed in wisdom, met to settle fate."]}, {"id": "E2.3.39", "lines": ["They weighed the matter long in grave debate,", "Until one sage arose to set it straight:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.40", "lines": ["“This lady, once great Jamhur’s honored bride,", "Has kept from evil, pure and firm in pride."]}, {"id": "E2.3.41", "lines": ["In both her marriages she sought the right,", "And followed justice with a constant light."]}, {"id": "E2.3.42", "lines": ["This lady comes from high and noble birth,", "Just, upright, and revered throughout the earth."]}, {"id": "E2.3.43", "lines": ["Let her be queen and keep their memory whole,", "The legacy of kings of just control.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.44", "lines": ["The whole assembly gave assent to this,", "And deemed her rule the way to keep their bliss."]}, {"id": "E2.3.45", "lines": ["Then spoke the sage before the wise queen’s face:", "“Take now the throne for both sons in this place."]}, {"id": "E2.3.46", "lines": ["This course will make for greatness; there is none", "More fit until their childhood’s years are done."]}, {"id": "E2.3.47", "lines": ["When they are fit to claim the royal throne,", "Resign the realm and wealth to be their own."]}, {"id": "E2.3.48", "lines": ["Then be their counselor and closest friend,", "And guide their reigns with wisdom to the end.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.49", "lines": ["The lady, favored by the turn of fate,", "Gave luster to the crown and royal state."]}, {"id": "E2.3.50", "lines": ["She graced the throne, grew kinder, just, and wise,", "And joy rose through the realm before men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "E2.3.51", "lines": ["She chose two men, both traveled, learned, and pure,", "Accomplished, holy, steady, and mature."]}, {"id": "E2.3.52", "lines": ["To them she gave the princes as a charge,", "Two sons of lofty lineage, bright and large."]}, {"id": "E2.3.53", "lines": ["Yet not a day would pass without her care;", "To see them thrive was all her joy and prayer."]}, {"id": "E2.3.54", "lines": ["As both increased in knowledge and in might,", "Their royal promise rose before men’s sight."]}, {"id": "E2.3.55", "lines": ["At times one came alone before the queen,", "And asked what future signs in him were seen:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.56", "lines": ["“Which of us two is fitter for command,", "More high of heart and shrewder in the land?”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.57", "lines": ["The mother answered both in measured phrase,", "“To learn which one excels in royal ways,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.58", "lines": ["Show prowess, counsel, faith, and practiced skill,", "With gracious speech and judgment free from ill."]}, {"id": "E2.3.59", "lines": ["For wisdom, modesty, and just command", "Are marks of those who merit crown and land."]}, {"id": "E2.3.60", "lines": ["Since both of you from royal blood descend,", "You both must prove what virtues crown the end.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.61", "lines": ["When either came alone and made his claim,", "And asked whose throne and crown would lift his name,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.62", "lines": ["“Which of us two shall wear the royal crown,", "And hold the troops and treasures of renown?”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.63", "lines": ["She answered him, “The throne shall fall to you;", "Your wisdom, counsel, fortune make it due.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.64", "lines": ["She said the same to each one in his turn,", "Until this hope in both began to burn."]}, {"id": "E2.3.65", "lines": ["Thus each expected throne and crown and fame,", "The army, wealth, good fortune, and great name."]}, {"id": "E2.3.66", "lines": ["With baleful tutors guiding either youth,", "They reached manhood and wandered far from truth."]}, {"id": "E2.3.67", "lines": ["Through mutual envy both endured distress,", "And both desired crown and wealth’s excess."]}, {"id": "E2.3.68", "lines": ["The whole realm and the army split in two;", "Good men grew fearful of what strife might do."]}, {"id": "E2.3.69", "lines": ["Impassioned by their tutors’ poisonous speech,", "Both sons came near their mother, each by each."]}, {"id": "E2.3.70", "lines": ["They cried, “Which one is best in good and ill?", "Which one is meekest and of stronger will?”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.71", "lines": ["That prudent lady answered, “First convene", "With sages, men whose hearts are pure, serene."]}, {"id": "E2.3.72", "lines": ["Resolve this question peacefully with them;", "Let wisdom be your crown’s first diadem."]}, {"id": "E2.3.73", "lines": ["Then you and both your tutors should inquire", "Of famous great men what your rights require."]}, {"id": "E2.3.74", "lines": ["Ask those in counsel skilled throughout the state", "What course should govern this divided fate."]}, {"id": "E2.3.75", "lines": ["Whoever seeks to rule and reign alone,", "Needs wisdom, treasure, troops, and strength his own."]}, {"id": "E2.3.76", "lines": ["For when a tyrant holds the royal crown,", "The world grows hot and weighs its people down.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.77", "lines": ["Shrewd Gav spoke to his mother, grave and fair:", "“Do not deflect my question into air."]}, {"id": "E2.3.78", "lines": ["If I am not the realm’s own luster, say;", "But do not turn from truth another way."]}, {"id": "E2.3.79", "lines": ["To young Talkhand yield throne and crown and land,", "And I will serve beneath his just command."]}, {"id": "E2.3.80", "lines": ["But if by age, by wisdom, and by birth,", "As sprung from great Jamhur, I hold more worth,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.81", "lines": ["Then bar him from a rash and lawless claim,", "Before his anger sets the realm aflame.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.82", "lines": ["His mother answered, “Curb your rash intent;", "Do not let royal blood be vainly spent."]}, {"id": "E2.3.83", "lines": ["Whoever takes the throne must understand:", "Stand ready, with a free and open hand."]}, {"id": "E2.3.84", "lines": ["He must guard his pure soul from inward ill,", "And walk the sage’s path with knowledge still."]}, {"id": "E2.3.85", "lines": ["He must be wary of the foe in fight,", "And heed what keeps his reputation bright."]}, {"id": "E2.3.86", "lines": ["The Master of the sun and moon will weigh", "His just and unjust acts on judgment’s day."]}, {"id": "E2.3.87", "lines": ["If kings oppress a gnat by wrongful deed,", "Their spirits mourn in hell for that misdeed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.88", "lines": ["The world is darker than the deepest night;", "Men’s hearts need hairlike subtlety and sight."]}, {"id": "E2.3.89", "lines": ["Thus soul and body both are kept from ill,", "For guile can never serve a righteous will."]}, {"id": "E2.3.90", "lines": ["When one is crowned and rules by justice shown,", "The world rejoices and his fame is known."]}, {"id": "E2.3.91", "lines": ["Yet brick and dust shall be his final bed,", "Or funeral fire, when breath and power have fled."]}, {"id": "E2.3.92", "lines": ["Of such a stock as this Jamhur was sprung;", "No deed of ill lay hidden on his tongue."]}, {"id": "E2.3.93", "lines": ["He died before the time that fate had planned,", "His younger brother heir to all the land."]}, {"id": "E2.3.94", "lines": ["Great Mai from Danbar came, still young and wise,", "A counselor beneath auspicious skies."]}, {"id": "E2.3.95", "lines": ["All Sandali went out to welcome him,", "With eager hearts when fortunes looked most dim."]}, {"id": "E2.3.96", "lines": ["He sat upon the throne of royal power,", "With girdle girt and open hands each hour."]}, {"id": "E2.3.97", "lines": ["He sought me as his spouse, and we were wed,", "So cares of state might be more wisely led."]}, {"id": "E2.3.98", "lines": ["Since you are elder both in years and mind,", "Do not let crown and wealth make spirit blind."]}, {"id": "E2.3.99", "lines": ["Strive not to vex your soul for rank or state,", "Nor treasure, crown, or power’s fleeting weight."]}, {"id": "E2.3.100", "lines": ["If I choose one, the other will be filled", "With pain and anger, and his heart be chilled."]}, {"id": "E2.3.101", "lines": ["Shed no blood for the sake of crown and store;", "This world stays with no mortal evermore.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.102", "lines": ["When fierce Talkhand had heard his mother speak,", "He liked it not; his heart was hard, not weak."]}, {"id": "E2.3.103", "lines": ["He answered her, “Your judgment favors him;", "You make my rightful claim grow faint and dim."]}, {"id": "E2.3.104", "lines": ["Though Gav is elder by the years he bears,", "Age by itself no sovereign worth declares."]}, {"id": "E2.3.105", "lines": ["Within this land and realm are many men", "As old as vultures in a mountain den."]}, {"id": "E2.3.106", "lines": ["Yet such men never sought the royal seat,", "Nor crown, nor throne, nor treasure at their feet."]}, {"id": "E2.3.107", "lines": ["My father died while young and gave to none", "The throne of majesty beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "E2.3.108", "lines": ["I see your foolish heart inclined that way,", "And all your preference clear as open day."]}, {"id": "E2.3.109", "lines": ["Yet I could mold his like from clay. May shame", "By God’s grace never stain my father’s name.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.110", "lines": ["His mother swore a solemn oath and said,", "“May heaven’s azure vault forsake my head"]}, {"id": "E2.3.111", "lines": ["If ever I desired of God to make", "Gav king, or held that wish for Gav’s own sake."]}, {"id": "E2.3.112", "lines": ["Think charitably on this royal case,", "And do not rail at heaven’s changing face."]}, {"id": "E2.3.113", "lines": ["All good is God’s; on Him your hopes rely;", "Put no trust in the ever-turning sky."]}, {"id": "E2.3.114", "lines": ["I gave you all the counsel that I could;", "If counsel fails, then do what seems most good."]}, {"id": "E2.3.115", "lines": ["Consider better things and make them live;", "Let wisdom be the food your actions give.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.116", "lines": ["She summoned all the wise men of the land,", "And told them what the trouble would demand."]}, {"id": "E2.3.117", "lines": ["She brought the treasury keys of both dead kings,", "Where guarded wealth lay stored with royal things."]}, {"id": "E2.3.118", "lines": ["She showed the riches gathered and retained", "Before experienced men whose minds were trained."]}, {"id": "E2.3.119", "lines": ["She gave her sons an equal share of all,", "And sought to satisfy each rival call."]}, {"id": "E2.3.120", "lines": ["Then Gav spoke out to young Talkhand and said,", "“You seem good-hearted, yet are falsely led."]}, {"id": "E2.3.121", "lines": ["Jamhur, as you have heard, was greater far", "Than Mai in counsel, years, and royal star."]}, {"id": "E2.3.122", "lines": ["Your sire, that virtuous man of noble name,", "Showed no ambition for the throne or fame."]}, {"id": "E2.3.123", "lines": ["He felt no shame in serving as a liege,", "Nor sought the crown by stratagem or siege."]}, {"id": "E2.3.124", "lines": ["See if the righteous Judge approves that I", "Should serve my younger brother beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "E2.3.125", "lines": ["Our mother spoke with justice in her breath;", "Why should your heart rejoice in justice’s death?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.126", "lines": ["Let us call chiefs and bid them all appear,", "Wise men whose knowledge spans the turning sphere."]}, {"id": "E2.3.127", "lines": ["We shall attend to what the sages say,", "And grant their judgment in this royal fray."]}, {"id": "E2.3.128", "lines": ["We shall gain knowledge from their measured art,", "And understanding shall inform each heart.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.129", "lines": ["The two wise tutors, men of counsel, met;", "Long arguments before the court they set."]}, {"id": "E2.3.130", "lines": ["Gav’s tutor claimed that Gav should be the king,", "And hold first place beneath the royal ring."]}, {"id": "E2.3.131", "lines": ["Talkhand’s own tutor then arose to speak,", "And pressed his claim with arguments oblique."]}, {"id": "E2.3.132", "lines": ["They wrangled there until the princes stood", "At odds in heart, abandoning the good."]}, {"id": "E2.3.133", "lines": ["Within one hall two thrones were set to vie;", "The princes sat as rivals, eye to eye."]}, {"id": "E2.3.134", "lines": ["Each had his ardent tutor on his right,", "Each coveting inheritance and might."]}, {"id": "E2.3.135", "lines": ["They summoned all the nobles to the hall,", "And seated ranks of great men, one and all."]}, {"id": "E2.3.136", "lines": ["Then those two sages loosened tongues and cried,", "“O famous men whose names are magnified,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.137", "lines": ["Of these two chiefs of royal blood and fame,", "Who guard ancestral customs and their name,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.138", "lines": ["Which youth will you accept to rule this land?", "Which seems more holy, fitter for command?”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.139", "lines": ["The priests, the nobles, and the wise of heart", "Were lost in wonder at this dangerous art."]}, {"id": "E2.3.140", "lines": ["The princes sat, each on his separate seat,", "While both ill-omened sages plied deceit."]}, {"id": "E2.3.141", "lines": ["The citizens and soldiers knew full well", "That only war and strife could rise and swell."]}, {"id": "E2.3.142", "lines": ["The empire would be rent apart through pain;", "The wise withdrew in worry and in strain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.143", "lines": ["Then one among the throng raised up his head,", "Rose to his feet, and thus with caution said:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.144", "lines": ["“How can we judge what profits crown and king,", "Before two famous youths who claim this thing?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.145", "lines": ["Let us assemble when tomorrow breaks,", "And weigh among ourselves the rival stakes."]}, {"id": "E2.3.146", "lines": ["Then we shall give our sentence to them both;", "Perhaps they will accept the council’s oath.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.147", "lines": ["They left the hall in murmurs and in spite,", "With sorrow in their souls, with sighs that night."]}, {"id": "E2.3.148", "lines": ["They said, “This business has grown hard to bear,", "Beyond the counsel even wise men share."]}, {"id": "E2.3.149", "lines": ["We never saw two kings confronted thus,", "With evil ministers to counsel us.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.150", "lines": ["All night their faces carried worry’s trace;", "At dawn the sun rose over mountain’s face."]}, {"id": "E2.3.151", "lines": ["The great and wise convened at break of day,", "While Sandali roared round them in dismay."]}, {"id": "E2.3.152", "lines": ["On every side each man expressed his view,", "And argued as his private judgment drew."]}, {"id": "E2.3.153", "lines": ["One warrior cried for Gav and took his side,", "Another praised Talkhand with equal pride."]}, {"id": "E2.3.154", "lines": ["Their tongues grew tired; no firm accord was made;", "At last the great assembly broke and strayed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.155", "lines": ["The citizens and soldiers turned away,", "Each toward the prince whose cause had won his day."]}, {"id": "E2.3.156", "lines": ["To Talkhand one gave homage, heart and hand,", "And cursed Gav’s cause throughout the troubled land."]}, {"id": "E2.3.157", "lines": ["Another came to Gav with gorz and sword,", "And pledged his life to him in firm accord."]}, {"id": "E2.3.158", "lines": ["Confusion gripped all Sandali; the throng", "Split into rival factions, massed and strong."]}, {"id": "E2.3.159", "lines": ["The sage declared, “When two command one hall,", "That house is certain in the end to fall.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.160", "lines": ["To Gav and to Talkhand the news was fanned:", "“Each quarter holds its own chief in command."]}, {"id": "E2.3.161", "lines": ["Each ravages the city day by day;", "The princes must not let this evil stay.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.162", "lines": ["This news filled both with fear; they kept strict guard,", "Through every hour, their vigil long and hard."]}, {"id": "E2.3.163", "lines": ["One day those princes chanced to meet alone,", "Without their Pahlevans or guards well known."]}, {"id": "E2.3.164", "lines": ["Their tongues were loosed in anger, face to face,", "With frowning brows and hearts devoid of grace."]}, {"id": "E2.3.165", "lines": ["Gav heard the news and sorrow filled his breast;", "His troubled heart could find no peace or rest."]}, {"id": "E2.3.166", "lines": ["He said, “My brother, do not act this way;", "For us, this matter has gone far astray."]}, {"id": "E2.3.167", "lines": ["Be satisfied and follow no mad scheme;", "The wise can see such lures are but a dream."]}, {"id": "E2.3.168", "lines": ["As you have heard, Mai’s service never waned", "While great Jamhur sat on the throne and reigned."]}, {"id": "E2.3.169", "lines": ["When boundless Jamhur died, I was too small", "To rule the realm or govern you at all."]}, {"id": "E2.3.170", "lines": ["They could not give the throne to one so young;", "The land still kept his justice on its tongue."]}, {"id": "E2.3.171", "lines": ["The world had grown so just beneath his reign", "That none dared seek his seat through greed or pain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.172", "lines": ["His brother was to him as soul and frame;", "All wished that Mai should rule in Jamhur’s name."]}, {"id": "E2.3.173", "lines": ["Had I been fit to claim the crown to own,", "No man would then have called on Mai alone."]}, {"id": "E2.3.174", "lines": ["Let us pursue the precedents of kings,", "And hear what wisdom on this question brings."]}, {"id": "E2.3.175", "lines": ["I am your better both by years and sire;", "Do not let false ambition feed your fire."]}, {"id": "E2.3.176", "lines": ["You say, ‘I am the chief, the better one,’", "But say that not beneath the turning sun."]}, {"id": "E2.3.177", "lines": ["Seek not, without the right, the throne of kings,", "Nor fill the realm with strife and bitter things.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.178", "lines": ["Talkhand replied, “Enough of subtle speech;", "No man gains power through the arts you teach."]}, {"id": "E2.3.179", "lines": ["This crown and throne I took from my own sire;", "I hold the seed he planted through desire."]}, {"id": "E2.3.180", "lines": ["From this day forth I guard the realm and store,", "With scimitar and battle evermore."]}, {"id": "E2.3.181", "lines": ["Speak not of Mai, nor Jamhur’s mighty name;", "If crown you seek, then fight and win by fame.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.182", "lines": ["They turned away, their heads with anger rife,", "And entered Sandali to ready strife."]}, {"id": "E2.3.183", "lines": ["The soldiers and the citizens took arms,", "And filled both princes’ courts with war’s alarms."]}, {"id": "E2.3.184", "lines": ["For Talkhand one whole faction took its stand,", "While Gav’s supporters gathered, sword in hand."]}, {"id": "E2.3.185", "lines": ["The battle-cry rose at the princes’ doors;", "No standing-room was left on city floors."]}, {"id": "E2.3.186", "lines": ["Talkhand was first to arm himself for fight,", "For restless courage drove him through the night."]}, {"id": "E2.3.187", "lines": ["He opened up his father’s treasure hoard,", "And gave out helms and armor that it stored."]}, {"id": "E2.3.188", "lines": ["The state was rent asunder; wise men feared,", "And asked what end from heaven now appeared:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.189", "lines": ["“What has the sky intended in its will,", "And which young prince is fated blood to spill?”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.190", "lines": ["News of both kings was spread through all the realm,", "And troops from every side took shield and helm."]}, {"id": "E2.3.191", "lines": ["Talkhand was first to put his armor on,", "And bathe his hands in blood before the dawn."]}, {"id": "E2.3.192", "lines": ["Gav donned his jowshan and his helmet too,", "And called his father’s spirit into view."]}, {"id": "E2.3.193", "lines": ["Embittered thus, the princes housed each beast,", "And saddled elephants from west to east."]}, {"id": "E2.3.194", "lines": ["The very earth seemed tense, as if in thrall,", "And longed for battle at the city wall."]}, {"id": "E2.3.195", "lines": ["The city filled with gongs and Indian bells;", "The karnays blared through all the hills and dells."]}, {"id": "E2.3.196", "lines": ["The two young kings marched out to take their stand,", "Each bearing his own life within his hand."]}, {"id": "E2.3.197", "lines": ["That battlefield filled heaven with amaze,", "And dust of troops obscured the watchers’ gaze."]}, {"id": "E2.3.198", "lines": ["The karnay flourish and the cymbal clash", "Went up from both lines like a thunder flash."]}, {"id": "E2.3.199", "lines": ["The wings were drawn to left and right in line;", "The earth seemed mountain-like beneath that sign."]}, {"id": "E2.3.200", "lines": ["The fronts ran two farsangs, extending wide;", "Their countless ordered ranks stretched side by side."]}, {"id": "E2.3.201", "lines": ["Each mighty king rode forth with proud command,", "High on an elephant above his band."]}, {"id": "E2.3.202", "lines": ["A tiger on one banner was displayed;", "A homa on the other was portrayed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.203", "lines": ["The footmen stood in front with spear and shield,", "All ready for the slaughter of the field."]}, {"id": "E2.3.204", "lines": ["Gav looked and saw the air with streaks arrayed,", "Like markings on a savage leopard made."]}, {"id": "E2.3.205", "lines": ["Each throat was choked with dust, the plain with blood,", "And lances led the way through battle’s flood."]}, {"id": "E2.3.206", "lines": ["Though Gav was angered by Talkhand’s intent,", "His wisdom kept his rage from being spent."]}, {"id": "E2.3.207", "lines": ["He chose a fluent noble from his side,", "A chief among his lords, in speech well tried."]}, {"id": "E2.3.208", "lines": ["He said, “Go now to young Talkhand and say:", "‘Do not pursue this wrongful warlike way."]}, {"id": "E2.3.209", "lines": ["Do not wage war against your brother’s life,", "Nor drown the land in such a wicked strife."]}, {"id": "E2.3.210", "lines": ["For bloodshed here will meet you after death,", "When judgment measures every mortal breath."]}, {"id": "E2.3.211", "lines": ["Give ear to Gav’s advice; do not go wrong", "Through evil counsel whispered all day long."]}, {"id": "E2.3.212", "lines": ["Let no reproach be left to mark our name,", "That Hind became a realm of blood and shame."]}, {"id": "E2.3.213", "lines": ["Let not this realm lie desolate, a den", "For lions, leopards, beasts of mountain glen."]}, {"id": "E2.3.214", "lines": ["Forbear this wanton strife and bloody deed;", "Let wisdom’s net restrain ambitious greed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.215", "lines": ["Bring peace to make my grieving heart rejoice;", "Let royal wisdom still your anger’s voice."]}, {"id": "E2.3.216", "lines": ["From this broad march to Chin extend your hand;", "Take all you wish, and peace shall bless the land."]}, {"id": "E2.3.217", "lines": ["I shall esteem your love as my own soul,", "And set you as my crown, my heart’s bright goal."]}, {"id": "E2.3.218", "lines": ["Let us share kingship as we shared the wealth;", "The throne and crown are not worth blood or health."]}, {"id": "E2.3.219", "lines": ["But if your heart toward strife alone has grown,", "To scatter all the flocks beneath your throne,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.220", "lines": ["In this world you will carry blame and stain,", "And in the next be judged for all this pain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.221", "lines": ["Incline not, brother, toward the way of wrong;", "Against the right, no wrongful thing stands long.’”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.222", "lines": ["Before Talkhand when Gav’s good envoy came,", "He gave the message in his master’s name."]}, {"id": "E2.3.223", "lines": ["Talkhand replied, “Return to Gav and say:", "‘Do not use subterfuge in war this way."]}, {"id": "E2.3.224", "lines": ["I call you neither brother nor a friend;", "No kinship joins us to a common end."]}, {"id": "E2.3.225", "lines": ["No blood or spirit binds your heart to mine;", "You doom the realm by treachery’s design."]}, {"id": "E2.3.226", "lines": ["You come against my gallant troops in pride;", "The knaves are with you, gathered at your side."]}, {"id": "E2.3.227", "lines": ["They serve you now, but when God weighs the soul,", "The guilt is yours; you answer for the whole."]}, {"id": "E2.3.228", "lines": ["Ill-famed, misborn, and cursed you stand in shame;", "The blessings shall be mine, and yours the blame."]}, {"id": "E2.3.229", "lines": ["For all blood spilled by you from this day forth,", "Your name shall bear the guilt from south to north."]}, {"id": "E2.3.230", "lines": ["You said, “Let us divide the realm we own,”", "But all the kingdom’s power is mine alone."]}, {"id": "E2.3.231", "lines": ["The land, the rites, the ivory seat and crown,", "From sun to Fish, are mine in field and town."]}, {"id": "E2.3.232", "lines": ["So long as you play king and claim my share,", "My soul would leave my body in despair."]}, {"id": "E2.3.233", "lines": ["I would rather lose both body and soul,", "Than see you gaze on crown or kingly goal."]}, {"id": "E2.3.234", "lines": ["My army is set; the air like brocade glows", "With gold-shot arrows, darts, and spearhead rows."]}, {"id": "E2.3.235", "lines": ["So thick the shafts and spearpoints crowd the skies,", "No rider knows the path before his eyes."]}, {"id": "E2.3.236", "lines": ["I will scatter heads across the battlefield,", "And make Gav’s troops a wailing harvest yield."]}, {"id": "E2.3.237", "lines": ["I will lead such a band in warlike pride,", "That none shall stand where my fierce ranks abide."]}, {"id": "E2.3.238", "lines": ["I will lead Gav in bonds before my face,", "While all his troops behold their own disgrace."]}, {"id": "E2.3.239", "lines": ["From slave to prince, no man shall dare to fight,", "Or put on battle-armor in my sight.’”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.240", "lines": ["The prudent envoy heard his harsh reply,", "Returned, and spoke beneath King Gav’s clear eye."]}, {"id": "E2.3.241", "lines": ["Gav’s heart was saddened, for he saw no lore", "In young Talkhand, but rage and nothing more."]}, {"id": "E2.3.242", "lines": ["Full of care, he called his sage aside,", "And spoke of all the answer, hurt in pride:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.243", "lines": ["“Suggest a remedy for this affair,", "You seeker after wisdom, just and fair."]}, {"id": "E2.3.244", "lines": ["The desert fills with blood and trunkless heads,", "While souls go to the Judge all heaven dreads."]}, {"id": "E2.3.245", "lines": ["This battle, when all reckonings are done,", "Must not bring ill fortune beneath the sun.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.246", "lines": ["The sage replied, “O king, no man need teach", "Your wisdom how far counsel’s hand can reach."]}, {"id": "E2.3.247", "lines": ["But if you seek my counsel, let me say:", "Be gentle with your brother in this fray."]}, {"id": "E2.3.248", "lines": ["Send one more envoy to him yet again,", "A man of rank and eloquence and ken."]}, {"id": "E2.3.249", "lines": ["Give him another message; he may cease", "To nurse his hatred, and incline to peace."]}, {"id": "E2.3.250", "lines": ["Resign to him the treasures others gained,", "The wealth by toil of former hands obtained."]}, {"id": "E2.3.251", "lines": ["Prefer your brother’s life to royal store;", "No treasure should be valued even more."]}, {"id": "E2.3.252", "lines": ["Since crown and signet-ring belong to you,", "Do not fight over wealth as rivals do."]}, {"id": "E2.3.253", "lines": ["I have observed the signs that heaven displays;", "They mark the ending of his numbered days."]}, {"id": "E2.3.254", "lines": ["Of all the planets, not one favors him;", "His star has set, his fortune has grown dim."]}, {"id": "E2.3.255", "lines": ["Moreover, he will perish on this field;", "You need not press him till his strength must yield."]}, {"id": "E2.3.256", "lines": ["Give him whatever wealth or steeds he asks,", "And keep your heart from later grief’s harsh tasks."]}, {"id": "E2.3.257", "lines": ["Keep back the signet, crown, and throne alone,", "Lest troops believe your courage overthrown."]}, {"id": "E2.3.258", "lines": ["But you, as king and fortune’s chosen lord,", "Know heaven’s purposes with deeper accord.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.259", "lines": ["When Gav had heard his tutor’s speech, he tried", "A new endeavor, sorrow at his side."]}, {"id": "E2.3.260", "lines": ["With wet face, for his brother’s sake in pain,", "He chose a man whom stars had favored plain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.261", "lines": ["A man of rank, of eloquence and grace,", "And sent him toward Talkhand’s hard-hearted face."]}, {"id": "E2.3.262", "lines": ["He said, “Go now to young Talkhand and say:", "‘Gav wastes in sleepless trouble and dismay,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.263", "lines": ["About the purpose heaven sets in sight,", "And all the danger of this coming fight."]}, {"id": "E2.3.264", "lines": ["He prays the Judge almighty over all", "Will stir up love before your fortunes fall."]}, {"id": "E2.3.265", "lines": ["May prudence rise again within your breast,", "So you renounce this strife and war’s behest."]}, {"id": "E2.3.266", "lines": ["If by your sage, who haunts and darkens you,", "Your soul has grown so fierce in what you do,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.267", "lines": ["Yet none can flee the course that heaven has spun;", "No man escapes what destiny has done."]}, {"id": "E2.3.268", "lines": ["Ask the twelve signs and seven planets now", "How this unjust work ends beneath their vow."]}, {"id": "E2.3.269", "lines": ["Foes compass us, and all the world is filled", "With wicked men by harsh ambition willed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.270", "lines": ["Kashmir’s great lord and Chin’s own Faghfoor press", "Our realm; against us both they stir and stress."]}, {"id": "E2.3.271", "lines": ["On both sides we shall be mocked by chiefs,", "By warrior-lords who watch our blood and griefs."]}, {"id": "E2.3.272", "lines": ["They will say, “Why should Talkhand and Gav contend,", "And fight for throne and crown to no good end?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.273", "lines": ["Are they not of one stock by royal birth,", "Both sons of holy sires of honored worth?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.274", "lines": ["Yet when evil counselors inflame their blood,", "They put their hands to slaughter’s crimson flood.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.275", "lines": ["If you will leave your men and come to me,", "Your friendship will from darkness set me free,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.276", "lines": ["I will bestow on you fine cloth and gold,", "Brocade and steeds, with treasures manifold."]}, {"id": "E2.3.277", "lines": ["The provinces and jewels shall be your own,", "With royal crown and carved ivory throne."]}, {"id": "E2.3.278", "lines": ["These from an elder brother are no shame;", "I do not seek a battle’s bitter fame."]}, {"id": "E2.3.279", "lines": ["If you do not attend to this advice,", "At last repentance will exact its price.’”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.280", "lines": ["Swift as a torrent to Talkhand he sped,", "And stood before that dark-souled prince, and said"]}, {"id": "E2.3.281", "lines": ["All Gav had told him, adding even more", "Of kingship, wealth, gold coins, and royal store."]}, {"id": "E2.3.282", "lines": ["When proud Talkhand had heard the envoy speak,", "And heard the prudent path that Gav would seek,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.283", "lines": ["He would not yield to what his brother said,", "For heaven had another purpose spread."]}, {"id": "E2.3.284", "lines": ["He answered, “Say to Gav: ‘Be schemer still;", "May your tongue fall beneath the sword of ill."]}, {"id": "E2.3.285", "lines": ["May Magian fire burn your body through;", "I know the craft behind what comes from you."]}, {"id": "E2.3.286", "lines": ["Your crude proposals I have heard and seen;", "Your only craft is treachery dark and lean."]}, {"id": "E2.3.287", "lines": ["How can you offer me the royal treasure?", "Who are you among such men of measure?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.288", "lines": ["By truth, your life must nearly now be spent,", "Since you show such prolonged anxiety’s bent."]}, {"id": "E2.3.289", "lines": ["The armies’ ranks extend for farsangs today;", "The world is filled with elephants in array."]}, {"id": "E2.3.290", "lines": ["With men and horses, standards, jowshan, spear;", "March forth and set the battle-order clear."]}, {"id": "E2.3.291", "lines": ["You came to fight; why do you dally still?", "You shall see prowess shaped by royal will."]}, {"id": "E2.3.292", "lines": ["The stars themselves shall seal your final hour,", "When my assault has burned away your power."]}, {"id": "E2.3.293", "lines": ["You know but practice, craft, and lying art,", "And sense that downfall reaches toward your heart."]}, {"id": "E2.3.294", "lines": ["You have grown far from counsel, crown, and throne;", "No wise man calls such fortune yours to own.’”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.295", "lines": ["The envoy came, his boastful message grim,", "And told Gav all Talkhand had said to him."]}, {"id": "E2.3.296", "lines": ["Thus until dark night showed its face on high,", "Envoys went back and forth beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "E2.3.297", "lines": ["They camped upon the field to wait for day,", "And dug a trench around their armed array."]}, {"id": "E2.3.298", "lines": ["The outposts made their rounds around each line;", "So passed the night beneath the watchful sign."]}, {"id": "E2.3.299", "lines": ["When Sol rose into Leo, earth was bright,", "A sea of gold and splendor to the sight."]}, {"id": "E2.3.300", "lines": ["The dome of lapis-lazuli turned gold,", "While in the east the burning dawn unrolled."]}, {"id": "E2.3.301", "lines": ["From both enclosures, karnays’ blaring rang,", "And kousts with deep and warlike thunder sang."]}, {"id": "E2.3.302", "lines": ["The flags of both young princes rose and spread,", "While armies formed to right and left ahead."]}, {"id": "E2.3.303", "lines": ["At either center those exalted two", "Stood, each with his sage minister in view."]}, {"id": "E2.3.304", "lines": ["Gav bade his sage proclaim to every chief:", "“Raise standards now; let fear find no relief."]}, {"id": "E2.3.305", "lines": ["Let every warrior hold his sword in hand,", "But none advance without my clear command."]}, {"id": "E2.3.306", "lines": ["No footman shall abandon where he stands;", "Keep ranks and hearts alike in careful hands."]}, {"id": "E2.3.307", "lines": ["No sober, wise, and prudent man should fight", "With reckless haste that clouds his judgment’s light."]}, {"id": "E2.3.308", "lines": ["I wish to see how young Talkhand deploys;", "Let none be lured by tumult’s maddened noise."]}, {"id": "E2.3.309", "lines": ["The counsel of all-holy God alone", "Prevails from sun to dust and star to stone."]}, {"id": "E2.3.310", "lines": ["I hope Almighty God will grant our side", "A glorious fate, with fortune as our guide."]}, {"id": "E2.3.311", "lines": ["We tried all counsel, pleaded more and more,", "But young Talkhand has closed his heart and door."]}, {"id": "E2.3.312", "lines": ["If now our army wins the field today,", "And sun and moon support us in the fray,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.313", "lines": ["Shed no blood for spoil or plundered gain;", "You shall receive rich treasure for your pain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.314", "lines": ["If any famous warrior from our side", "Breaks toward the center in his battle-pride,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.315", "lines": ["And comes upon Talkhand amid the fight,", "He must not cast him down by force or might."]}, {"id": "E2.3.316", "lines": ["Let none stand in the raging elephants’ way,", "With girdles bound, prepared to join the fray.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.317", "lines": ["The soldiers shouted, “We will do your will,", "And make your counsel our adornment still.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.318", "lines": ["Upon the other side Talkhand addressed", "His troops, with warlike fury in his breast:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.319", "lines": ["“You warders of the throne, draw every sword,", "Confide in God and strike the hostile horde."]}, {"id": "E2.3.320", "lines": ["That we may be victorious in this hour,", "And fortune’s star may ripen into power,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.321", "lines": ["Slay all the foe. When Gav is seized alive,", "Let no man kill him, though the battle thrive."]}, {"id": "E2.3.322", "lines": ["Do not address him harshly in your hate,", "But bring him bound before my royal state."]}, {"id": "E2.3.323", "lines": ["Bring Gav down from the beast on which he rides,", "And lead him bound where my own tent abides.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.324", "lines": ["Then karnays blared before the royal tent;", "The air with neighs and booming kousts was rent."]}, {"id": "E2.3.325", "lines": ["Steeds neighed, chiefs raised dust with charging cries,", "And massive gorzes whirled beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "E2.3.326", "lines": ["The hills and streams re-echoed with the roar;", "It seemed that heaven shrank before the war."]}, {"id": "E2.3.327", "lines": ["At shouting, axe-blow, sword, and battle sound,", "No head from foot was known upon that ground."]}, {"id": "E2.3.328", "lines": ["The sun withdrew its skirt from shafts that sped,", "And eagle plumes above the ranks of dead."]}, {"id": "E2.3.329", "lines": ["Earth seemed a sea of blood, with heads and hands", "Like pebbles sunk beneath red-flowing sands."]}, {"id": "E2.3.330", "lines": ["The princes from the center came in might,", "Like elephants released upon the fight."]}, {"id": "E2.3.331", "lines": ["From both arose the warning, loud and clear:", "“Keep far away from my two-headed spear."]}, {"id": "E2.3.332", "lines": ["O Brother, be not forward in the fray;", "Beware my sword’s hard edge, and keep away.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.333", "lines": ["Thus each cried out against the other’s fame,", "While earth became a blood-filled sea of flame."]}, {"id": "E2.3.334", "lines": ["The valiant swordsmen wheeled around the field,", "With blows that shattered helmet, jowshan, shield."]}, {"id": "E2.3.335", "lines": ["Beneath the warriors’ blows, the blood and brain", "Flowed out in streams across the trampled plain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.336", "lines": ["Thus till the sun had left the sky the strife", "Surpassed all bounds and drained the field of life."]}, {"id": "E2.3.337", "lines": ["Then from the field a shout from Gav was heard,", "And all the combatants received his word:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.338", "lines": ["“You warriors, take no revenge today", "On those who seek safe quarter in the fray."]}, {"id": "E2.3.339", "lines": ["Know that my brother now has turned away,", "And left alone, cannot abide this day.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.340", "lines": ["Then many chiefs asked quarter; many more", "Were slaughtered on the field in streams of gore."]}, {"id": "E2.3.341", "lines": ["Talkhand’s whole army scattered in dismay,", "Their shepherd gone, their broken ranks gave way."]}, {"id": "E2.3.342", "lines": ["When young Talkhand was stranded and bereft,", "Upon his elephant, with no one left,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.343", "lines": ["Gav called, “My brother, leave this battlefield;", "Go home, where palace walls can be your shield."]}, {"id": "E2.3.344", "lines": ["By truth, you shall not suffer harm from me,", "Nor from my men, if you from battle flee."]}, {"id": "E2.3.345", "lines": ["Give thanks to God, the source of all good things,", "For life preserved amid the strife of kings."]}, {"id": "E2.3.346", "lines": ["But this is not the time for long advice;", "Go now, before new blood demands its price.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.347", "lines": ["When young Talkhand had heard his brother’s word,", "He writhed with shame, and all his soul was stirred."]}, {"id": "E2.3.348", "lines": ["He wept, and toward Morgh he left the fight,", "Where troops came flocking to his standard’s might."]}, {"id": "E2.3.349", "lines": ["He opened magazines and gave supplies;", "His men grew glad, content before his eyes."]}, {"id": "E2.3.350", "lines": ["He gave each worthy man a robe of grace,", "And paid the soldiers in that troubled place."]}, {"id": "E2.3.351", "lines": ["When all had taken pay, and in his heart", "His warlike rage had lessened in its part,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.352", "lines": ["He sent this message back to Gav in scorn:", "“You are to throne as weed to garden born."]}, {"id": "E2.3.353", "lines": ["You shall burn soon; your spirit shall be maimed,", "Your eyes sewn up, your former courage shamed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.354", "lines": ["Do not suppose I cannot harm your soul;", "Do not let self-deceit become your goal.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.355", "lines": ["When Gav had heard the savage words he sent,", "All brotherly affection withered, spent."]}, {"id": "E2.3.356", "lines": ["His heart filled up with anger, and he said", "To his own sage, with grief around him spread:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.357", "lines": ["“Behold this monstrous thing, this savage mind;", "What remedy can royal wisdom find?”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.358", "lines": ["The sage replied, “O king, whose worth is shown,", "You keep your father’s memory as your own."]}, {"id": "E2.3.359", "lines": ["In knowledge, none can equal your command;", "In might, you stand above the royal band."]}, {"id": "E2.3.360", "lines": ["I told my lord the truth by sun and moon,", "That this proud prince’s end would follow soon."]}, {"id": "E2.3.361", "lines": ["Until he falls and writhes upon the dust,", "He will not turn from strife or raging lust."]}, {"id": "E2.3.362", "lines": ["In this dispute, be patient and delay;", "Reply not harshly, seek a peaceful way."]}, {"id": "E2.3.363", "lines": ["Restore the bond of kinship and accord,", "Though all his works but aim at strife and sword."]}, {"id": "E2.3.364", "lines": ["What can he do? It is the will of God;", "If he fights on, we too will tread that sod."]}, {"id": "E2.3.365", "lines": ["He hurries forward; we have strength to wait,", "And patience is a shield against hard fate.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.366", "lines": ["King Gav then called the messenger to him,", "And spoke with courtesy, though eyes were dim."]}, {"id": "E2.3.367", "lines": ["He said, “Go say to my brother, ‘Do not be", "So violent, brutal, and from judgment free."]}, {"id": "E2.3.368", "lines": ["Such fury ill befits your noble stem;", "Your father’s honor was his diadem."]}, {"id": "E2.3.369", "lines": ["I see that you reject alliance still,", "And turn aside my counsel and good will."]}, {"id": "E2.3.370", "lines": ["Yet still I wish your fame to flourish bright,", "Your name well honored in all people’s sight."]}, {"id": "E2.3.371", "lines": ["Now I will show you all within my heart,", "And speak the purpose held in secret part."]}, {"id": "E2.3.372", "lines": ["Your evil minister has sundered you", "From quiet, wisdom, and advice most true."]}, {"id": "E2.3.373", "lines": ["Speak only what is just, for all the world,", "My brother, is but wind and mockery hurled."]}, {"id": "E2.3.374", "lines": ["Incline to peace, and I shall send you all", "The wealth, and loyal lieges at your call."]}, {"id": "E2.3.375", "lines": ["Your doubtful soul will see within my heart", "Nothing but justice, plain in every part."]}, {"id": "E2.3.376", "lines": ["May everyone be joyful in your life;", "My words and purpose do not point to strife."]}, {"id": "E2.3.377", "lines": ["If you, self-willed, will heed the words I say,", "This realm may yet be spared a darkened day."]}, {"id": "E2.3.378", "lines": ["But if your heart is wholly bent on fight,", "And peace and pact find no place in your sight,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.379", "lines": ["I shall array my warriors for the field,", "And they suffice to make a kingdom yield."]}, {"id": "E2.3.380", "lines": ["Let us go out beyond all peopled lands,", "And lead both armies beside the sea’s far sands."]}, {"id": "E2.3.381", "lines": ["There dig a trench around them, deep and wide,", "To hold our armies in on every side."]}, {"id": "E2.3.382", "lines": ["Then flood that trench with water from the main,", "And drive the men to fight as fates ordain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.383", "lines": ["So that the worsted army cannot flee,", "Nor break away through field or hill or sea."]}, {"id": "E2.3.384", "lines": ["The one of us who wins that bounded place", "Shall shed no blood upon that narrowed space."]}, {"id": "E2.3.385", "lines": ["But take the foemen captive in the end;", "May God shield us from sword and shaft, my friend.’”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.386", "lines": ["Swift as the wind the envoy crossed the land,", "And placed the message in Talkhand’s own hand."]}, {"id": "E2.3.387", "lines": ["When he had heard all that the message said,", "His heart grew fierce; he would not bend his head."]}, {"id": "E2.3.388", "lines": ["He summoned leaders of his troops to hear,", "And seated each according to his sphere."]}, {"id": "E2.3.389", "lines": ["He told them Gav’s reply and stated the case,", "Then asked their judgment, looking face to face:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.390", "lines": ["“What is your judgment on this sea-side war", "That Gav proposes near the water’s roar?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.391", "lines": ["Shall we turn his fancy into fact and fight?", "Will any man draw back from battle’s sight?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.392", "lines": ["If you are one with me, then not a man", "Will shrink a moment from my battle plan."]}, {"id": "E2.3.393", "lines": ["What matter whether sea or mountain stand,", "When we seek battle with a kingly hand?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.394", "lines": ["If you will be my comrades in the strife,", "The leopard does not fear the fox’s life."]}, {"id": "E2.3.395", "lines": ["All we who seek high fame from all the world", "Shall see our highest hopes in glory furled."]}, {"id": "E2.3.396", "lines": ["The aspirant should rather die with fame", "Than live to decorate a victor’s name."]}, {"id": "E2.3.397", "lines": ["Whoever bears himself stoutly in fight,", "His bearing shall bring wealth and honor bright."]}, {"id": "E2.3.398", "lines": ["He shall receive from me abundant store,", "With servants, steeds, and treasures more and more."]}, {"id": "E2.3.399", "lines": ["From fair Kashmir down to Chin’s eastern sea,", "The states will bring their homage all to me."]}, {"id": "E2.3.400", "lines": ["I shall bestow their cities on my men", "Before the crown and throne are mine again.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.401", "lines": ["The chieftains bowed their faces to the ground,", "And all their voices made one martial sound:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.402", "lines": ["“Our choice is fame; our king shall win the field,", "And Fortune make the world before you yield.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.403", "lines": ["Then from Talkhand’s gate arose a cry,", "And troops stirred every province far and high."]}, {"id": "E2.3.404", "lines": ["He led his army seaward, proud and grim;", "The troops of Gav appeared confronting him."]}, {"id": "E2.3.405", "lines": ["The two kings camped, each one desiring blood,", "Each seeking vengeance in that iron flood."]}, {"id": "E2.3.406", "lines": ["Around both armies they dug trenches deep,", "And let the sea-water within them sweep."]}, {"id": "E2.3.407", "lines": ["Both armies drew up face to face in wrath,", "While foam was on the horsemen’s lips and path."]}, {"id": "E2.3.408", "lines": ["The wings were marshaled out on either flank,", "The baggage lodged along the salt sea’s bank."]}, {"id": "E2.3.409", "lines": ["Those royal kings, with anger in each heart,", "Prepared two elephants to play their part."]}, {"id": "E2.3.410", "lines": ["Each at his army’s center took command,", "And set his warlike will upon the land."]}, {"id": "E2.3.411", "lines": ["The earth grew black beneath the darkened sky,", "With spears and silken banners lifted high."]}, {"id": "E2.3.412", "lines": ["Dust darkened; tabiras, karnays all cried,", "While gorz and ax struck hard on every side."]}, {"id": "E2.3.413", "lines": ["The sea itself appeared to boil and roll,", "While the nahangs cried blood from bank to shoal."]}, {"id": "E2.3.414", "lines": ["At battle-ax and gorz and sword’s hard blow,", "A red mist from the deep began to flow."]}, {"id": "E2.3.415", "lines": ["As that dark veil was drawn across the sun,", "The world’s face vanished where the war had run."]}, {"id": "E2.3.416", "lines": ["The air seemed filled with swords that fell like rain,", "And planted crimson tulips on the plain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.417", "lines": ["The fallen lay so thick across the ground,", "No vulture dared to wheel above the mound."]}, {"id": "E2.3.418", "lines": ["Some lay within the trench where bloodstreams ran;", "Some headless on the field in death’s dark span."]}, {"id": "E2.3.419", "lines": ["The sea rose with the wind; the armies pressed,", "Troop after troop, with fury in each breast."]}, {"id": "E2.3.420", "lines": ["The plain was filled with livers, hearts, and brains;", "The horses’ hoofs were clogged with crimson stains."]}, {"id": "E2.3.421", "lines": ["Talkhand looked from his elephant; blood spread", "Like flooding Nile, and turned the whole earth red."]}, {"id": "E2.3.422", "lines": ["The wind blew hard; he hungered, parched and worn,", "Yet found no rest beneath the battle horn."]}, {"id": "E2.3.423", "lines": ["No refuge showed from sun, wind, scimitar;", "He swooned and died beneath his evil star."]}, {"id": "E2.3.424", "lines": ["He died upon his golden saddle fair,", "And left Hind’s realm to Gav through battle’s snare."]}, {"id": "E2.3.425", "lines": ["When loss befalls the man whose heart seeks gain,", "How fierce his grief, how bitter grows his pain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.426", "lines": ["Since gain and loss alike must pass away,", "Enjoy, wise sage, the pleasures of today."]}, {"id": "E2.3.427", "lines": ["However great the wealth your labor brings,", "The world is not worth grief for all such things."]}, {"id": "E2.3.428", "lines": ["Gav from the center failed to see the sign,", "The prince’s flag above Talkhand’s far line."]}, {"id": "E2.3.429", "lines": ["He sent a Pahlevan to wheel ahead,", "And search before the elephants with dread."]}, {"id": "E2.3.430", "lines": ["“Search all the foemen’s front for farsangs round,", "And learn where Talkhand’s scarlet flag is found."]}, {"id": "E2.3.431", "lines": ["That banner shadowed horsemen everywhere;", "The fight seems halted, unless dust blinds my stare.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.432", "lines": ["The horseman came and searched both field and line,", "But did not see the chief’s red battle-sign."]}, {"id": "E2.3.433", "lines": ["He saw the foemen’s center in dismay,", "The horsemen seeking their lost prince that day."]}, {"id": "E2.3.434", "lines": ["He turned away and came as quick as dust,", "And gave King Gav the tidings, plain and just."]}, {"id": "E2.3.435", "lines": ["Gav then dismounted, and on foot he went", "For two farsangs, in tears and long lament."]}, {"id": "E2.3.436", "lines": ["When he beheld dead young Talkhand, aghast,", "And saw the soldiers’ faces overcast,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.437", "lines": ["He searched the body, scanning head to heel,", "But found no wound of arrow or of steel."]}, {"id": "E2.3.438", "lines": ["Then that exalted monarch wailed aloud,", "And sat beside the corpse with anguish bowed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.439", "lines": ["He said, “Alas, young warrior, you are gone,", "Your wounded soul in anguish traveling on."]}, {"id": "E2.3.440", "lines": ["You died beneath the malice of your star;", "Else no cruel wind had struck you from afar."]}, {"id": "E2.3.441", "lines": ["You cast your teachers’ counsel all away,", "And darkened now your mother’s heart today."]}, {"id": "E2.3.442", "lines": ["Much did I warn you with all kindliness,", "But my advice could bring you no success.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.443", "lines": ["When Gav’s own sage beheld Talkhand lie dead,", "The world-aspiring prince, his spirit fled,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.444", "lines": ["And saw his brother wailing on the plain,", "With cries that pierced the sky in bitter pain,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.445", "lines": ["He too lamented, grieving at Gav’s side,", "And cried, “Alas, young prince,” and deeply sighed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.446", "lines": ["Then turning lips toward counsel, he addressed", "Gav, whose grief was thunder in his breast:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.447", "lines": ["“Exalted king, what profits grief and tears?", "He has passed beyond these mortal years."]}, {"id": "E2.3.448", "lines": ["What had to be has been; now give God praise:", "No hand of yours cut short your brother’s days."]}, {"id": "E2.3.449", "lines": ["Did I not tell you of his end before,", "From Mars and Saturn, sun and moon’s own lore?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.450", "lines": ["This youth would bear himself in fight this way,", "And end the measure of his mortal day."]}, {"id": "E2.3.451", "lines": ["His work is wind; through ignorance he fell,", "His strength is gone, his toil an empty shell."]}, {"id": "E2.3.452", "lines": ["This mighty army burns with wrath and grief,", "And every eye looks to you for relief."]}, {"id": "E2.3.453", "lines": ["Content yourself, and make us satisfied;", "Let wisdom now become your royal guide."]}, {"id": "E2.3.454", "lines": ["When soldiers see their king in sorrow stray", "On foot, and weeping helpless on the way,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.455", "lines": ["His luster lessens in their watching eyes,", "And even base men dare at last to rise."]}, {"id": "E2.3.456", "lines": ["A king is like rosewater, pure and bright;", "Let no harsh blast destroy his royal light.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.457", "lines": ["Gav heeded what the prudent sage had said,", "And through the camp his proclamation spread:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.458", "lines": ["“You men of name, brave warriors of the king,", "Let none remain where battle’s weapons ring."]}, {"id": "E2.3.459", "lines": ["The armies now are one; division ends.", "Let all give praise, united now as friends."]}, {"id": "E2.3.460", "lines": ["Be all beneath my shelter and preserve", "My brother’s memory with the love you serve.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.461", "lines": ["He called the chiefs; from lashes then he shed", "His own heart’s blood for Talkhand lying dead."]}, {"id": "E2.3.462", "lines": ["He made a narrow coffin, rich and bright,", "Of ivory, gold, and turquoise in the light,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.463", "lines": ["Of teakwood too, and wrapped his brother’s face", "In glossy Chin silk with a mournful grace."]}, {"id": "E2.3.464", "lines": ["Thus Hind’s great chief from light and life had passed;", "They sealed the lid with pitch and resin fast."]}, {"id": "E2.3.465", "lines": ["With musk and camphor sealed, the coffin lay,", "Then Gav marched onward, tarrying not one day."]}, {"id": "E2.3.466", "lines": ["The princes’ mother neither slept nor ate,", "Since they had chosen battle’s fatal gate."]}, {"id": "E2.3.467", "lines": ["She rested not, but fasted in despair,", "And watched the road each day with bitter care."]}, {"id": "E2.3.468", "lines": ["When army-dust rose thick along the road,", "The wakeful watchman saw the moving load."]}, {"id": "E2.3.469", "lines": ["He saw the flag of Gav appear in sight,", "And all the realm’s face filled with troops and might."]}, {"id": "E2.3.470", "lines": ["From two farsangs he scanned the battle-land,", "For Talkhand’s elephant and standard grand."]}, {"id": "E2.3.471", "lines": ["He failed to mark them in the crowded field,", "And sent a horseman swiftly, truth revealed:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.472", "lines": ["“The army comes from mountainside today,", "And Gav is with his warriors in array."]}, {"id": "E2.3.473", "lines": ["No sign of Talkhand reaches ear or eye,", "No elephant, no flag, no battle-cry.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.474", "lines": ["His mother wept blood tears that would not dry;", "Her breast was drenched beneath the bitter sky."]}, {"id": "E2.3.475", "lines": ["When tidings came that empire’s light was dim,", "And young Talkhand had died through fortune grim,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.476", "lines": ["That on his golden saddle he had died", "And left Gav king, she tore her hair and cried."]}, {"id": "E2.3.477", "lines": ["Into Talkhand’s own palace-hall she ran,", "And beat her head on every wall and span."]}, {"id": "E2.3.478", "lines": ["She tore her cheeks and rent her royal gown,", "Then burned the hall, the treasury, and crown."]}, {"id": "E2.3.479", "lines": ["She raised a mighty pyre to burn upon,", "By Hind’s old rite, when hope and sons are gone."]}, {"id": "E2.3.480", "lines": ["She meant through sorrow to reveal her pain,", "And join Talkhand beyond the mortal chain."]}, {"id": "E2.3.481", "lines": ["When of his mother tidings reached the king,", "He sped the road, his heart with sorrowing."]}, {"id": "E2.3.482", "lines": ["He came and clasped her, pleading through his grief,", "With bloody eyes and words that sought relief:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.483", "lines": ["“O loving mother, listen to my plea;", "No wrong was ours in that field by the sea."]}, {"id": "E2.3.484", "lines": ["It was not I, nor any comrade’s hand,", "Nor warriors of this noble army’s band,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.485", "lines": ["Who slew him. None dared breathe on him with scorn;", "He died beneath the star to which he was born.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.486", "lines": ["His mother answered, “Wicked man, on you", "Shall fall high heaven’s curse, your rightful due."]}, {"id": "E2.3.487", "lines": ["You slew your brother for a crown to own;", "No good man calls such fortune yours alone.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.488", "lines": ["“O loving mother,” Gav replied in grief,", "“Think no such evil of me or my chief."]}, {"id": "E2.3.489", "lines": ["Be calm, and I shall tell the tale entire", "Of king and band and battle’s bitter fire."]}, {"id": "E2.3.490", "lines": ["Who would have dared to go and fight with him?", "Whoever planned such conflict dark and grim?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.491", "lines": ["Now by the Judge who fashioned sun and moon,", "The night, the day, and heaven’s changing rune,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.492", "lines": ["The signet, throne, and steed, the gorz I brace,", "The sword and crown shall never see my face"]}, {"id": "E2.3.493", "lines": ["Unless I clear this matter to your soul,", "And turn your heart from harshness to control."]}, {"id": "E2.3.494", "lines": ["I shall prove plain that no man’s hand or breath", "On young Talkhand brought down the stroke of death."]}, {"id": "E2.3.495", "lines": ["What man escapes from death upon this earth,", "Though steel and helm protect his royal worth?"]}, {"id": "E2.3.496", "lines": ["When the bright lamp fails, none can gain one hour,", "However brave, against death’s hand and power."]}, {"id": "E2.3.497", "lines": ["If what I prove does not content you now,", "Then by God’s Lordship and my solemn vow,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.498", "lines": ["I mean to burn my body in the fire,", "And gladden all my foemen’s dark desire.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.499", "lines": ["His mother, hearing this, had pity’s light,", "And feared that Gav might burn his life outright."]}, {"id": "E2.3.500", "lines": ["She said, “Then show me how Talkhand could die", "Upon his elephant beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "E2.3.501", "lines": ["Unless this matter is made clear to me,", "My heart will burn, and never shall be free.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.502", "lines": ["Gav sought his palace full of grief and shame,", "And called his sage, whose counsel carried fame."]}, {"id": "E2.3.503", "lines": ["He told what passed, and how his mother’s word", "Had angered him until his oath was heard."]}, {"id": "E2.3.504", "lines": ["They sat alone to weigh the king’s despair;", "The sage then spoke of how to meet his care:"]}, {"id": "E2.3.505", "lines": ["“My gracious sovereign, this cannot be done", "By us alone beneath the moon and sun."]}, {"id": "E2.3.506", "lines": ["Let us call sages, men whose fame is sung,", "From every region and from every tongue."]}, {"id": "E2.3.507", "lines": ["From Kashmir, Danbar, Morgh, and Mai’s domain,", "Summon the shrewdest seekers of the plain.”"]}, {"id": "E2.3.508", "lines": ["Gav sent his horsemen out to every side,", "Wherever sages of true guidance bide."]}, {"id": "E2.3.509", "lines": ["They came before the portal of the king,", "To that famed court where learned voices ring."]}, {"id": "E2.3.510", "lines": ["He held a session of the wise and great,", "Nobles learned in counsel and debate."]}, {"id": "E2.3.511", "lines": ["Gav’s sage described the battle and the war,", "The prince, the trench, the sea-fight, and yet more."]}, {"id": "E2.3.512", "lines": ["They talked with that sharp-witted man all night,", "Of trench and water, battle, death, and right."]}, {"id": "E2.3.513", "lines": ["Not one among them slept, nor sought his bed;", "They talked until the dawn rose, gold and red."]}, {"id": "E2.3.514", "lines": ["At daybreak, tabiras began to sound;", "They called for ebony, and it was found."]}, {"id": "E2.3.515", "lines": ["Two ingenious counselors carved a board,", "Foursquare, to show the trench, the field, the sword;"]}, {"id": "E2.3.516", "lines": ["Full sixty-four the squares they scored and lined,", "As eight by eight the battlefield defined."]}, {"id": "E2.3.517", "lines": ["They carved two armies, teak and ivory fair,", "With two crowned kings possessed of royal air."]}, {"id": "E2.3.518", "lines": ["Both horse and foot were figured on the field,", "In two opposed arrays with sword and shield."]}, {"id": "E2.3.519", "lines": ["The steeds and elephants stood in array,", "With counselors and warriors for the fray."]}, {"id": "E2.3.520", "lines": ["As armies fight according to their art,", "Some pressed attack while others held their part."]}, {"id": "E2.3.521", "lines": ["The king stood posted at the army’s heart,", "His faithful minister not far apart."]}, {"id": "E2.3.522", "lines": ["Beside the king his minister was set,", "To aid his counsel when in danger met;"]}, {"id": "E2.3.523", "lines": ["On either flank two raging elephants stood,", "With indigo caparisons of wood;"]}, {"id": "E2.3.524", "lines": ["Beside the elephants two steeds of war,", "Whose riders watched the field and what it bore;"]}, {"id": "E2.3.525", "lines": ["And on each outer wing a warrior-Rukh,", "Whose furious charge the ranks opposing shook."]}, {"id": "E2.3.526", "lines": ["The footman’s task was always to advance,", "And lend the battle strength at every chance."]}, {"id": "E2.3.527", "lines": ["When he had crossed the field from end to end,", "He served as counselor, the king’s own friend."]}, {"id": "E2.3.528", "lines": ["The counselor could move one square, no more,", "To join the battle in this mimic war."]}, {"id": "E2.3.529", "lines": ["The armored elephant leaped two squares wide,", "To strike the foemen on the further side;"]}, {"id": "E2.3.530", "lines": ["The horse moved three, but turned along its track,", "One square aside to carry its attack."]}, {"id": "E2.3.531", "lines": ["The warrior-Rukh could range along each way,", "And charge across the field throughout the fray."]}, {"id": "E2.3.532", "lines": ["Each fought within the station he was given,", "And kept the bounds by which his course was driven."]}, {"id": "E2.3.533", "lines": ["When one beheld the king exposed in fight,", "He cried, “Beware, O King!” with all his might."]}, {"id": "E2.3.534", "lines": ["The king would shift his square and seek escape,", "Until the tightening battle closed its shape."]}, {"id": "E2.3.535", "lines": ["When Rukh and horse, the minister and men,", "And elephant had closed each passage then,"]}, {"id": "E2.3.536", "lines": ["The king looked out across the foursquare field,", "And saw his beaten ranks compelled to yield."]}, {"id": "E2.3.537", "lines": ["The trench and water blocked his paths of flight;", "His broken troops could offer no more fight."]}, {"id": "E2.3.538", "lines": ["With foes before, behind, and either side,", "He stood hemmed in with nowhere left to ride."]}, {"id": "E2.3.539", "lines": ["Exhausted, parched, the king succumbed to fate;", "The turning heavens brought him to checkmate."]}, {"id": "E2.3.540", "lines": ["King Gav, the great and good, took deep delight", "In chess, born from the tale of Talkhand’s fight."]}, {"id": "E2.3.541", "lines": ["His mother watched each piece and studied long,", "Her heart consumed by grief, her sorrow strong."]}, {"id": "E2.3.542", "lines": ["Hour after hour she sat before the game,", "While anguish fed within her like a flame."]}, {"id": "E2.3.543", "lines": ["Her eyes remained fixed always on the board;", "For Talkhand all her thought and longing poured."]}, {"id": "E2.3.544", "lines": ["Her whole desire was centered on his fate,", "And grief within her heart grew ever great."]}, {"id": "E2.3.545", "lines": ["She shed red tears and turned to chess for aid,", "As though its moves might soothe the wound it made."]}, {"id": "E2.3.546", "lines": ["She neither ate nor stirred from where she stayed,", "Until her span of mortal life decayed."]}, {"id": "E2.3.547", "lines": ["Such is this ancient world: its joys depart;", "No lasting gladness dwells in any heart."]}, {"id": "E2.3.548", "lines": ["And here the tale I heard of old is done,", "An ancient story, passed from father to son."]}, {"id": "E2.3.549", "lines": ["That chessboard from those days remained to tell", "The memory of all that once befell."]}, {"id": "E2.4.1", "lines": ["Mark what Shadan, Barzin’s son, revealed,", "A matter long from human knowledge sealed."]}, {"id": "E2.4.2", "lines": ["When Anooshirvan was king of kings, may fame", "Preserve through endless time his royal name,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.3", "lines": ["He gathered sages learned in every sort,", "To lend a greater luster to his court."]}, {"id": "E2.4.4", "lines": ["The whole world rested under his command,", "The chiefs, the wise, the brave of every land."]}, {"id": "E2.4.5", "lines": ["Physicians, speakers, those who led their peers,", "And dream interpreters of practiced years."]}, {"id": "E2.4.6", "lines": ["Among them stood a sage of high renown,", "Barzvi, physician, honored by the crown."]}, {"id": "E2.4.7", "lines": ["He was an orator, advanced in age,", "Acclaimed in every learning as a sage."]}, {"id": "E2.4.8", "lines": ["One day Barzvi approached the royal place,", "And spoke before the Shah with reverent face:"]}, {"id": "E2.4.9", "lines": ["“O Shah, a friend to knowledge, keen to learn,", "Who seeks and keeps the truths for which hearts yearn,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.10", "lines": ["Today I pored upon an Indian leaf,", "And found a marvel passing all belief."]}, {"id": "E2.4.11", "lines": ["It said, ‘Upon the mountains of Hind grows", "A herb like Roman silk that softly glows."]}, {"id": "E2.4.12", "lines": ["If one expert should gather it with art,", "And knowledge guide the hand, the mind, the heart,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.13", "lines": ["Then if he strews it on a lifeless frame,", "The corpse will speak and life return like flame.’"]}, {"id": "E2.4.14", "lines": ["Now, with the king’s consent, I shall set out,", "And test that wonder, sifting truth from doubt."]}, {"id": "E2.4.15", "lines": ["With learning as companion on the way,", "I shall explore what those strange pages say."]}, {"id": "E2.4.16", "lines": ["It fits Anooshirvan’s great reign alone", "That dead men rise and speak, by wonder shown.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.17", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “This hardly may be true,", "Yet still the effort is the thing to do."]}, {"id": "E2.4.18", "lines": ["Take now my letter to the Raja’s hand,", "And see the wonders of that Indian land."]}, {"id": "E2.4.19", "lines": ["Seek comrades fit to aid you in the quest,", "And fortune, wakeful, riding in your breast."]}, {"id": "E2.4.20", "lines": ["You may reveal some marvel to the earth,", "For some deep meaning gave these wonders birth."]}, {"id": "E2.4.21", "lines": ["Bear worthy gifts before the Raja’s eyes;", "He will provide the counsel of the wise.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.22", "lines": ["Then Anooshirvan opened wide his hoard,", "And brought out gifts fit for a sovereign lord:"]}, {"id": "E2.4.23", "lines": ["Gold coins and Roman silk and beaver-skin,", "With fragrant musk and amber packed within;"]}, {"id": "E2.4.24", "lines": ["Three hundred horsemen, disciplined and bold,", "Escorted him with caskets of pure gold;"]}, {"id": "E2.4.25", "lines": ["With royal letters and a costly load,", "Barzvi set forth upon the Indian road."]}, {"id": "E2.4.26", "lines": ["He reached the Raja, bowed, and gave the scroll,", "And laid its charge before him, clear and whole."]}, {"id": "E2.4.27", "lines": ["When that king read the Shah’s command inside,", "He honored Anooshirvan and then replied:"]}, {"id": "E2.4.28", "lines": ["“Our persons, troops, and treasuries are one;", "What he commands through justice shall be done."]}, {"id": "E2.4.29", "lines": ["By throne, by grace, by Fortune’s high estate,", "The pious Shah may turn the course of fate."]}, {"id": "E2.4.30", "lines": ["The Brahmans of the mountains, one and all,", "Shall answer freely to your every call."]}, {"id": "E2.4.31", "lines": ["My minister, my treasury and store,", "My hoarded wealth; all Hindustan, and more,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.32", "lines": ["With all its good and ill, its least and best,", "Are yours beneath my power, at your behest.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.33", "lines": ["They lodged the envoy in a splendid place,", "Beside the Raja, honored with all grace."]}, {"id": "E2.4.34", "lines": ["They gave him food, rich carpets, fine brocade,", "And robes of honor, sumptuously made."]}, {"id": "E2.4.35", "lines": ["All night the Raja spoke with priests and sages,", "The great of Ghanooj, learned from many ages."]}, {"id": "E2.4.36", "lines": ["When daylight opened over hills afar,", "And earth was kindled by the morning star,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.37", "lines": ["He called physicians learned in every cure,", "And those whose knowledge stood most firm and sure."]}, {"id": "E2.4.38", "lines": ["He bade them seek Barzvi and each make known", "The knowledge that long practice made his own."]}, {"id": "E2.4.39", "lines": ["The erudite, well versed in medicine’s art,", "Went with Barzvi, each ready for his part."]}, {"id": "E2.4.40", "lines": ["On foot Barzvi searched every mountain slope;", "His learned guides went with him, filled with hope."]}, {"id": "E2.4.41", "lines": ["He gathered herbs both dried and fresh with dew,", "The green, the withered, every kind he knew."]}, {"id": "E2.4.42", "lines": ["He ground the herbs, then scattered what he made", "Upon the lifeless bodies there displayed."]}, {"id": "E2.4.43", "lines": ["No corpse revived, though every herb was tried;", "Each healing virtue withered up and died."]}, {"id": "E2.4.44", "lines": ["The seekers climbed each ridge and searched each slope;", "Their toil brought back no fruit and left no hope."]}, {"id": "E2.4.45", "lines": ["Then Barzvi knew, “This power is God’s to own;", "He lives forever on His deathless throne.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.46", "lines": ["Thoughts of the Shah and chiefs of high renown", "Filled him with shame and weighed his spirit down."]}, {"id": "E2.4.47", "lines": ["He thought of all the treasure he had brought,", "And grieved at his own speech and fruitless thought."]}, {"id": "E2.4.48", "lines": ["Chagrined, he said, “Why did that witless sage", "Set down such folly on an Indian page?"]}, {"id": "E2.4.49", "lines": ["Why write in levity and cause such pain,", "Such weary toil and travail for no gain?”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.50", "lines": ["Thereafter he addressed the Indian wise:", "“Experienced chiefs, revered in learned eyes,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.51", "lines": ["Do you know one more learned in this land,", "Whose knowledge passes all within your band?”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.52", "lines": ["The sages said together in accord,", "“There dwells an ancient man of wisdom stored."]}, {"id": "E2.4.53", "lines": ["He passes us in knowledge and in years,", "And bests each chief whose learning still appears.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.54", "lines": ["Barzvi replied to those of Hind’s renown,", "“O ardent souls, whose names wear honor’s crown,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.55", "lines": ["Exert yourselves yet more to be my guide,", "And lead me to that sage who may decide"]}, {"id": "E2.4.56", "lines": ["How best to help us now and lend his aid", "In this pursuit where all our hopes have strayed.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.57", "lines": ["They led Barzvi to him with anxious care,", "Full of concern and many words to share."]}, {"id": "E2.4.58", "lines": ["When eloquent Barzvi approached the sage,", "He told his toils and all that filled the page:"]}, {"id": "E2.4.59", "lines": ["The writing he had found, the experts’ speech,", "The mountain search that failed beyond their reach."]}, {"id": "E2.4.60", "lines": ["The ancient sage replied in ample word,", "And made the hidden meaning plain when heard:"]}, {"id": "E2.4.61", "lines": ["“We found the selfsame matter in those lines,", "And once pursued the same elusive signs."]}, {"id": "E2.4.62", "lines": ["Now I will tell you what we came to know;", "The noble heart must listen as words flow."]}, {"id": "E2.4.63", "lines": ["The herb stands for the sage, the mountain, lore;", "He lives apart, increasing wisdom’s store."]}, {"id": "E2.4.64", "lines": ["The corpse is one who does not understand;", "His folly troubles all throughout the land."]}, {"id": "E2.4.65", "lines": ["In truth, it is through knowledge men revive;", "Blessed are those whose ceaseless labors thrive."]}, {"id": "E2.4.66", "lines": ["When ignorance has left a man as dead,", "Kalila brings him life through what is read."]}, {"id": "E2.4.67", "lines": ["Within the monarch’s treasury there lies", "A book that teaches rulers to be wise."]}, {"id": "E2.4.68", "lines": ["It shows the road to knowledge and to rule,", "And lifts the ignorant from folly’s school.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.69", "lines": ["Barzvi rejoiced at what the sage made plain;", "Like wind, his labors passed, with all their pain."]}, {"id": "E2.4.70", "lines": ["He blessed the sage and hastened to the throne,", "And praised the Raja in a joyful tone:"]}, {"id": "E2.4.71", "lines": ["“Live while Hind shall last beneath the sky.", "There is a book concealed from common eye."]}, {"id": "E2.4.72", "lines": ["O mighty Raja, there is, I am told,", "A book called Kalila within your hold."]}, {"id": "E2.4.73", "lines": ["It lies beneath the royal seal and ward,", "Within the monarch’s carefully guarded hoard."]}, {"id": "E2.4.74", "lines": ["It is a guide to knowledge and to rule,", "A book of counsel and a royal school."]}, {"id": "E2.4.75", "lines": ["Kalila is the herb in mystic speech;", "O king of Hind, now place it in my reach."]}, {"id": "E2.4.76", "lines": ["If I am not too troublesome, command", "Your treasurer to place it in my hand.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.77", "lines": ["The Raja’s heart grew troubled at the word;", "Upon his throne his heavy sigh was heard."]}, {"id": "E2.4.78", "lines": ["He answered Barzvi, “None has sought this thing", "In former days from any Indian king."]}, {"id": "E2.4.79", "lines": ["Yet if Anooshirvan asked from me", "My body or my soul, both would be free."]}, {"id": "E2.4.80", "lines": ["No treasure would I keep from his demand,", "Whether concealed or known throughout the land."]}, {"id": "E2.4.81", "lines": ["But you shall read it only in my sight,", "And set no words upon a page to write."]}, {"id": "E2.4.82", "lines": ["Let none learn what you write within your heart;", "Read here before me till you know each part.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.83", "lines": ["Barzvi replied, “O king, your words have shown", "The very wish that I would call my own.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.84", "lines": ["The Raja’s minister brought Kalila out;", "Barzvi perused it, banishing all doubt."]}, {"id": "E2.4.85", "lines": ["As each new chapter opened to his view,", "He spent the day learning its order true."]}, {"id": "E2.4.86", "lines": ["He read no more than memory could retain,", "And kept each passage clear within his brain."]}, {"id": "E2.4.87", "lines": ["Each day he wrote a chapter out to send", "In secret to the Shah, his royal friend."]}, {"id": "E2.4.88", "lines": ["By this device, the Indian book was brought", "To Anooshirvan, who prized the lore it taught."]}, {"id": "E2.4.89", "lines": ["So Barzvi stayed there hale and deeply pleased,", "His ardent soul by streams of knowledge eased."]}, {"id": "E2.4.90", "lines": ["At last the answer to his letters came:", "“The Sea of Lore has reached us, clear in fame.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.91", "lines": ["He sought the Raja’s leave to take the road", "Back to the Shah and to his own abode."]}, {"id": "E2.4.92", "lines": ["The Raja treated him with gracious care,", "And had an Indian robe prepared to wear:"]}, {"id": "E2.4.93", "lines": ["Two precious armlets and two earrings bright,", "A jeweled torque fit for a monarch’s sight,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.94", "lines": ["An Indian turban and an Indian blade", "Of watered steel, magnificently made."]}, {"id": "E2.4.95", "lines": ["From Ghanooj Barzvi took the homeward road,", "With Indian learning as his precious load."]}, {"id": "E2.4.96", "lines": ["Returning to the court, he bowed his head,", "Then told the Shah all that the Raja said:"]}, {"id": "E2.4.97", "lines": ["How knowledge had been found instead of herbs,", "And how its force the ignorant heart curbs."]}, {"id": "E2.4.98", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “O man of noble soul,", "Kalila has restored and made me whole."]}, {"id": "E2.4.99", "lines": ["Take from my treasurer the key in hand,", "And choose whatever wealth your deeds demand.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.100", "lines": ["The sage went to the treasury and stayed,", "Yet little claim upon its riches laid."]}, {"id": "E2.4.101", "lines": ["Gold coins and jewels lay on left and right,", "Yet he chose only one robe rich and bright."]}, {"id": "E2.4.102", "lines": ["He put that costly royal raiment on,", "And sought the court from which he had withdrawn."]}, {"id": "E2.4.103", "lines": ["When he approached the throne, he kissed the floor,", "And praised the king whose justice all adore."]}, {"id": "E2.4.104", "lines": ["The monarch said, “O man of toils and care,", "Why take so little, leaving riches spare?"]}, {"id": "E2.4.105", "lines": ["Why bring no gold or jewels from my hoard?", "Your labors surely merit more reward.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.106", "lines": ["Barzvi replied, “O king whose crown is higher", "Than sun and moon in their celestial fire,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.107", "lines": ["The man who wears a robe the monarch gave", "Has found the fortune that all men would crave."]}, {"id": "E2.4.108", "lines": ["When people see my humble self arrayed", "In royal robes, my foes will shrink afraid."]}, {"id": "E2.4.109", "lines": ["My friends’ cheeks will keep their bloom and light;", "Their hearts will glow, their faces still be bright."]}, {"id": "E2.4.110", "lines": ["Yet there is one request I make of you,", "To keep alive the trials I went through."]}, {"id": "E2.4.111", "lines": ["Let Bozorgmehr, when copying this great book,", "Upon Barzvi’s endeavors kindly look."]}, {"id": "E2.4.112", "lines": ["Let him recount my deeds in Chapter One,", "By order of the Shah, when all is done,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.113", "lines": ["So when I die, my journey and my pain", "Will not be lost among the learned train.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.114", "lines": ["“A great request,” the Shah replied, “yet you", "Have asked with modesty, as it is due."]}, {"id": "E2.4.115", "lines": ["Yet still your labor has deserved as much,", "Though rank alone might not be fit for such.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.116", "lines": ["Then to Bozorgmehr came the Shah’s command:", "“Let this request be granted by your hand.”"]}, {"id": "E2.4.117", "lines": ["So when the pen was fashioned from the reed,", "The scribe wrote Barzvi’s name and worthy deed."]}, {"id": "E2.4.118", "lines": ["In Khosrow’s letters, Pahlavi alone", "Was used to make the royal message known."]}, {"id": "E2.4.119", "lines": ["They kept the book with honor in the store;", "None looked with scorn upon its treasured lore."]}, {"id": "E2.4.120", "lines": ["In Pahlavi the book was guarded long,", "Untouched by alien hand, and safe from wrong,"]}, {"id": "E2.4.121", "lines": ["Until the house of Abbas rose, and then", "Men turned the work to Arab speech again."]}, {"id": "E2.4.122", "lines": ["To Rudaghi the chapters were rehearsed,", "Till all the tales were harmonized and versed."]}, {"id": "E2.4.123", "lines": ["King Nasr then had it set in Dari speech,", "Its cultivated wisdom fit to teach."]}, {"id": "E2.4.124", "lines": ["King Nasr heard it, eager to be wise,", "And wisdom showed the road before his eyes."]}, {"id": "E2.4.125", "lines": ["He wished by every means the world might hold", "His name among its lasting records told."]}, {"id": "E2.4.126", "lines": ["They brought interpreters to read each word", "To Rudaghi, who shaped the prose he heard."]}, {"id": "E2.4.127", "lines": ["The poet joined its scattered words in rhyme,", "And strung its shining pearls in measured time."]}, {"id": "E2.4.128", "lines": ["For those who understand, its words are bright;", "For those who do not, pardon is their right."]}, {"id": "E2.4.129", "lines": ["The scattered words were gathered, joined, and whole;", "Their verses filled the mind and stirred the soul."]}, {"id": "E2.4.130", "lines": ["Long life to Mahmud; may his name endure,", "With time and earth beneath his rule secure."]}, {"id": "E2.4.131", "lines": ["How glad the heart, if men of evil ways", "Received less bounty in Shah Mahmud’s days."]}, {"id": "E2.4.132", "lines": ["Yet let no grief for this disturb your mind;", "Few days remain; leave such regrets behind."]}, {"id": "E2.4.133", "lines": ["Each day brings alternations, loss and gain,", "At times assistance, then at times new pain."]}, {"id": "E2.4.134", "lines": ["But neither joy nor sorrow long can stay;", "Both pass like travelers upon their way."]}, {"id": "E2.4.135", "lines": ["Since life has journeyed far toward its end,", "Abandon hope that earthly days extend."]}]}, {"id": "E3", "title": "Bozorgmehr’s Fall and Restoration", "summary": "5 sections · 619 couplets", "path": "/poem/e3/", "couplets": [{"id": "E3.1.1", "lines": ["Mark now the fate of Bozorgmehr the seer,", "The Shah who raised him brought his downfall near."]}, {"id": "E3.1.2", "lines": ["Anooshirvan, the mighty king of kings,", "Rode out from Madain like a hawk on wings."]}, {"id": "E3.1.3", "lines": ["Through wilderness he chased the mountain sheep,", "And startled deer across the hollows deep."]}, {"id": "E3.1.4", "lines": ["Across the grass the huntsmen scattered wide,", "Till only Bozorgmehr stayed by his side."]}, {"id": "E3.1.5", "lines": ["Across the fields the monarch found a glade,", "With trees and flowers and water in its shade."]}, {"id": "E3.1.6", "lines": ["The weary Shah dismounted from his steed,", "And let his eyes take solace from the mead."]}, {"id": "E3.1.7", "lines": ["The king lay down awhile upon the ground,", "While all the meadow kept a peaceful sound."]}, {"id": "E3.1.8", "lines": ["He set his head with trust and royal ease", "Upon Bozorgmehr’s lap beneath the trees."]}, {"id": "E3.1.9", "lines": ["That wise king wore an armlet, rich and bright,", "That flashed around his arm with jeweled light."]}, {"id": "E3.1.10", "lines": ["By chance, its clasp broke loose beside his bed;", "The armlet fell beside his resting head."]}, {"id": "E3.1.11", "lines": ["A sable raven swooped down from the sky,", "And marked the armlet with a greedy eye;"]}, {"id": "E3.1.12", "lines": ["Three royal pearls the glittering band possessed;", "The raven snatched the jewels to its chest."]}, {"id": "E3.1.13", "lines": ["It gulped the lustrous pearls into its bill,", "Then soared away across the wooded hill."]}, {"id": "E3.1.14", "lines": ["At that strange sign, Bozorgmehr stood aghast,", "And read the sky’s dark motion racing fast."]}, {"id": "E3.1.15", "lines": ["He knew his fall and coming days of pain;", "His bitter season now began its reign."]}, {"id": "E3.1.16", "lines": ["The Shah awoke and saw him bite his lip,", "While dread held all the sage within its grip."]}, {"id": "E3.1.17", "lines": ["He scanned his arm and saw the jewels flown,", "Then looked for those whose faces he had known."]}, {"id": "E3.1.18", "lines": ["No man of all his escort could be seen;", "The meadow stretched around him bare and green."]}, {"id": "E3.1.19", "lines": ["He judged that Bozorgmehr, while sleep had reigned,", "Had swallowed all the scattered gems he gained."]}, {"id": "E3.1.20", "lines": ["“Can wisdom hide such baseness from the light,", "And keep your greedy nature out of sight?"]}, {"id": "E3.1.21", "lines": ["I am not Ormozd, privy to your game;", "My frame is earth and wind and burning flame.”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.22", "lines": ["The Shah spent many words, and each one stung;", "No answer came; the sage had held his tongue."]}, {"id": "E3.1.23", "lines": ["The sage gave nothing but a cold, deep sigh,", "And bowed before the turning wheel of sky."]}, {"id": "E3.1.24", "lines": ["He saw at once the omen of disgrace,", "And terror sealed the wisdom in his face."]}, {"id": "E3.1.25", "lines": ["In wrath the king remounted on his steed,", "And rode back to the palace at full speed."]}, {"id": "E3.1.26", "lines": ["At court he bit his lips in mounting rage,", "And gave his orders to confine the sage."]}, {"id": "E3.1.27", "lines": ["He bade them strike the sage’s face with blows,", "As hammers fall where hardened iron glows."]}, {"id": "E3.1.28", "lines": ["They made the palace prison for the man,", "And held him there beneath the monarch’s ban."]}, {"id": "E3.1.29", "lines": ["There he remained and watched a frowning sky,", "With fortune’s hostile shadow drawing by."]}, {"id": "E3.1.30", "lines": ["The sage had one young kinsman, bold and brave,", "Who served the Shah with skill, a courtly slave."]}, {"id": "E3.1.31", "lines": ["He came and went at any hour, at will,", "And spoke before the Shah with freedom still."]}, {"id": "E3.1.32", "lines": ["One day the sage addressed that youthful man:", "“How do you serve the Shah? Tell all you can."]}, {"id": "E3.1.33", "lines": ["Describe your service plainly, act by act,", "So you may serve with better grace and tact.”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.34", "lines": ["“Chief of the Mobadan,” he answered then,", "“This very day I feared the king of men."]}, {"id": "E3.1.35", "lines": ["He looked at me in such a piercing way,", "I thought that food and sleep had fled that day."]}, {"id": "E3.1.36", "lines": ["Before the meal, I brought the water near,", "And poured upon his hands in anxious fear."]}, {"id": "E3.1.37", "lines": ["But when he left the meal, I lost command", "Of how to pour the water on his hand."]}, {"id": "E3.1.38", "lines": ["His anger held my frightened heart in thrall,", "And from my hand I let the basin fall.”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.39", "lines": ["The sage replied, “Rise now and bring me here", "Warm water, with a basin clean and clear.”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.40", "lines": ["He poured warm water on the sage’s hands,", "To learn the service that the Shah demands."]}, {"id": "E3.1.41", "lines": ["The sage said, “Let the water gently flow;", "Be calm, and keep your movements soft and slow."]}, {"id": "E3.1.42", "lines": ["When with sweet-scented clay his hands are graced,", "Pour on with gentle flow, devoid of haste.”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.43", "lines": ["The servant kept the sage’s words in mind,", "And served the Shah as Bozorgmehr designed."]}, {"id": "E3.1.44", "lines": ["He brought the basin to the king again,", "And poured with grace before the royal men."]}, {"id": "E3.1.45", "lines": ["“May love increase,” the king began to say,", "“Who taught you how to serve me in this way?”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.46", "lines": ["He answered, “Bozorgmehr has taught the same,", "And showed the mode that fits your royal name.”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.47", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Go, charge him, and inquire:", "‘With all the rank and wisdom men admire,"]}, {"id": "E3.1.48", "lines": ["Why choose the worse and turn away from right,", "And stain your noble conduct in my sight?’”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.49", "lines": ["The servant hurried where the sage was kept,", "And gave the Shah’s harsh message while he wept."]}, {"id": "E3.1.50", "lines": ["The sage replied, “Though prison is my fate,", "My present lot is better than his state.”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.51", "lines": ["The servant brought that answer, word by word;", "The monarch’s wrath grew sharper when he heard."]}, {"id": "E3.1.52", "lines": ["He had the sage bound in a dungeon’s gloom,", "And sealed him in that harsh and narrow room."]}, {"id": "E3.1.53", "lines": ["Again he asked, “How does that madman bear", "His prisoned lot, his darkness, and despair?”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.54", "lines": ["The sage replied, still steadfast in his chain,", "“My days pass more at ease than does his reign.”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.55", "lines": ["The Shah burned like a leopard in his rage;", "His fury grew more savage toward the sage."]}, {"id": "E3.1.56", "lines": ["He bade them forge an oven, narrow, small,", "Of iron, with no room to stretch at all."]}, {"id": "E3.1.57", "lines": ["Within, sharp spikes and nails stood all around;", "An iron lid above him held him bound."]}, {"id": "E3.1.58", "lines": ["There Bozorgmehr could neither rest by day,", "Nor sleep by night while iron barred his way."]}, {"id": "E3.1.59", "lines": ["A third time Anooshirvan sent his word:", "“Ask how he fares, and bring me what is heard."]}, {"id": "E3.1.60", "lines": ["Say, ‘How are you, ringed by spikes and nails,", "While every point your suffering assails?’”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.61", "lines": ["The sage received the message without dread,", "“My days are better than the Shah’s,” he said."]}, {"id": "E3.1.62", "lines": ["The Shah’s face darkened at the stubborn sound,", "And livid anger through his features wound."]}, {"id": "E3.1.63", "lines": ["He chose a truthful man of searching mind,", "To hear the sage and judge what lay behind."]}, {"id": "E3.1.64", "lines": ["Beside him walked a swordsman trained to kill,", "The headsman sworn to do the royal will."]}, {"id": "E3.1.65", "lines": ["“Go say, ‘Explain yourself, or you shall die;", "This swordsman waits to hear your last reply."]}, {"id": "E3.1.66", "lines": ["You praised the prison, cage, and piercing chain,", "Above the Shah’s own throne and royal reign.’”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.67", "lines": ["The envoy hastened to the sage’s cell,", "And all the Shah had spoken he would tell."]}, {"id": "E3.1.68", "lines": ["The sage replied, “No fortune holds one course;", "No mortal stands beyond its changing force."]}, {"id": "E3.1.69", "lines": ["All good and evil reach their destined end;", "The proud and broken to the grave descend."]}, {"id": "E3.1.70", "lines": ["Enthroned and rich, or grievously oppressed,", "All leave the world and enter final rest."]}, {"id": "E3.1.71", "lines": ["To pass from prison is an easy thing;", "The fear belongs to those who wear the ring.”"]}, {"id": "E3.1.72", "lines": ["The witness and the swordsman went their way,", "And told the Shah the answer, plain as day."]}, {"id": "E3.1.73", "lines": ["A fear of evil fortune pierced his breast;", "His anger failed, his troubled heart found rest."]}, {"id": "E3.1.74", "lines": ["He ordered them to free the learned sage,", "And bring him from his narrow iron cage."]}, {"id": "E3.1.75", "lines": ["So heaven turned awhile with matters so,", "While age began to mark him blow by blow."]}, {"id": "E3.1.76", "lines": ["Deep furrows marked the weary sage’s face;", "His suffering had left its bitter trace;"]}, {"id": "E3.1.77", "lines": ["Within that sunless dungeon, locked and confined,", "The light deserted him, and he went blind."]}, {"id": "E3.1.78", "lines": ["He withered under sorrow’s secret blight,", "And pined beneath care’s long-consuming night."]}, {"id": "E3.2.1", "lines": ["In those days Caesar sent a man to bring", "Both gifts and Caesar’s letter to the king."]}, {"id": "E3.2.2", "lines": ["Among the gifts he bore a casket sealed,", "Locked fast, its hidden contents still concealed."]}, {"id": "E3.2.3", "lines": ["He said, “O king whose warriors win renown,", "With many holy sages round your crown,"]}, {"id": "E3.2.4", "lines": ["You lack no holy sage or searching mind;", "Let them declare what lies in it confined."]}, {"id": "E3.2.5", "lines": ["Let no one touch the padlock or the seal;", "Let wisdom name the thing the locks conceal."]}, {"id": "E3.2.6", "lines": ["If they speak rightly and the truth is known,", "We will send yearly tribute to your throne."]}, {"id": "E3.2.7", "lines": ["But if your keen Mobadan fail this test,", "And cannot name what lies within the chest,"]}, {"id": "E3.2.8", "lines": ["Then ask no tribute from the Roman land,", "Nor send an army with invading hand."]}, {"id": "E3.2.9", "lines": ["Such is the message Caesar gave to me;", "Now answer as your judgment shall decree.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.10", "lines": ["The Shah replied with measured royal grace:", "“This hidden matter rests in God’s embrace."]}, {"id": "E3.2.11", "lines": ["By sacred farr, I hope to solve the test,", "With learned men to aid me in the quest."]}, {"id": "E3.2.12", "lines": ["Remain a week; take wine and dwell at peace;", "Let gladness in your heart and soul increase.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.13", "lines": ["Yet in the Shah’s own heart the matter burned;", "His troubled mind through many counsels turned."]}, {"id": "E3.2.14", "lines": ["He summoned all the great men and the wise,", "And bade them search the casket with their eyes."]}, {"id": "E3.2.15", "lines": ["They studied every surface, lock, and cord,", "And sought the hidden answer for their lord."]}, {"id": "E3.2.16", "lines": ["The Mobadan gathered, each with practiced art,", "But none could read the secret at its heart."]}, {"id": "E3.2.17", "lines": ["When all that council brought the Shah no gain,", "The heart of Anooshirvan was filled with pain."]}, {"id": "E3.2.18", "lines": ["He said, “Bozorgmehr’s intellect alone", "Can search this secret out, to us unknown."]}, {"id": "E3.2.19", "lines": ["His mind can read the secrets of the sky,", "And bring to light what other minds pass by.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.20", "lines": ["He chose fresh robes, a horse of noble breed,", "A golden saddle fitted to the steed."]}, {"id": "E3.2.21", "lines": ["He sent them to the sage and had them say:", "“Forget the wounds that marked your bitter day."]}, {"id": "E3.2.22", "lines": ["High heaven so ordained above our head", "That pain from us along your path was spread."]}, {"id": "E3.2.23", "lines": ["Your tongue provoked our anger in that hour;", "You were the author of your fallen power."]}, {"id": "E3.2.24", "lines": ["Now I am faced with work that grants no rest;", "The elders’ wisdom cannot meet the test."]}, {"id": "E3.2.25", "lines": ["For Caesar sent a priest from Roman lands,", "Renowned for subtle arts and skillful hands."]}, {"id": "E3.2.26", "lines": ["He brought a casket sealed on every side,", "With lock and musk its hidden core to hide."]}, {"id": "E3.2.27", "lines": ["The envoy says, ‘My lord commands this test:", "Declare the hidden contents of the chest."]}, {"id": "E3.2.28", "lines": ["Let all the sages and the princes say", "What lies inside, and speak without delay.’"]}, {"id": "E3.2.29", "lines": ["I thought, ‘No soul this mystery can clear", "Unless the mind of Bozorgmehr draw near.’”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.30", "lines": ["When Bozorgmehr had heard the monarch’s word,", "Old pain within his wounded spirit stirred."]}, {"id": "E3.2.31", "lines": ["He left the prison, washed his head and frame,", "And prayed first to Yazdan of every name."]}, {"id": "E3.2.32", "lines": ["Though innocent, he feared the wrathful king,", "And all the weight that crown and kingship bring."]}, {"id": "E3.2.33", "lines": ["He kept a sleepless watch and pondered well", "How he might solve the secret he must tell."]}, {"id": "E3.2.34", "lines": ["When sunlight shone across the heavenly face,", "He read the stars and searched their ordered place."]}, {"id": "E3.2.35", "lines": ["He washed his inward sight in wisdom’s stream,", "And weighed the riddle like a waking dream."]}, {"id": "E3.2.36", "lines": ["He chose a trusted sage from those he knew,", "A man whose care was steady, sharp, and true."]}, {"id": "E3.2.37", "lines": ["He said, “Misfortune brought me to this plight;", "These sufferings have robbed me of my sight."]}, {"id": "E3.2.38", "lines": ["Watch those who pass us on the road today;", "Ask who they are, and tell me what they say.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.39", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr left his house, and soon there came", "A woman beautiful in face and frame."]}, {"id": "E3.2.40", "lines": ["The watchful friend observed her on the road,", "And told the sage what signs her presence showed."]}, {"id": "E3.2.41", "lines": ["He said, “Go ask this woman passing by", "If she is wed, and bring me her reply.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.42", "lines": ["“I have a husband,” came her answer clear,", "“And bear a child within me, hidden here.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.43", "lines": ["The sage upon his white horse rode ahead,", "Reflecting on the words the woman said."]}, {"id": "E3.2.44", "lines": ["Another woman passed along the way;", "His friend approached to hear what she would say:"]}, {"id": "E3.2.45", "lines": ["“O woman, are you wife and mother too,", "Or does no child belong at home with you?”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.46", "lines": ["She said, “I have a husband; I have known", "No child as yet to cherish as my own.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.47", "lines": ["A third appeared, with graceful step and face;", "The friend addressed her with attentive grace."]}, {"id": "E3.2.48", "lines": ["“My fair one, are you maiden, or a wife?", "What household bond attends your present life?”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.49", "lines": ["She said, “No husband ever came to me;", "I keep myself apart, a maiden free.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.50", "lines": ["The sage discerned the riddle they implied,", "And matched the omen to the chest inside:"]}, {"id": "E3.2.51", "lines": ["The pregnant wife revealed a pearl pierced through;", "The barren bride, a pearl drilled halfway true;"]}, {"id": "E3.2.52", "lines": ["The untouched maid, a virgin pearl untried,", "Where never iron pierced its lustrous hide."]}, {"id": "E3.2.53", "lines": ["They brought him to the Shah’s imperial hall;", "He bowed before the Shah who ruled them all."]}, {"id": "E3.2.54", "lines": ["Yet Anooshirvan’s heart was troubled sore,", "To find the sage’s eyes could see no more."]}, {"id": "E3.2.55", "lines": ["He breathed deep sighs, with sorrow in his breast,", "And begged the sage forgive his harsh arrest."]}, {"id": "E3.2.56", "lines": ["He owned the unjust pain he had imposed,", "Then Caesar’s challenge to the sage disclosed."]}, {"id": "E3.2.57", "lines": ["He spoke of Rum, the casket, lock, and seal,", "And of the secret none could yet reveal."]}, {"id": "E3.2.58", "lines": ["The sage replied, “May glory crown your reign,", "As long as heaven’s circling stars remain."]}, {"id": "E3.2.59", "lines": ["Now call a session of the learned and wise,", "With Caesar’s envoy there before their eyes."]}, {"id": "E3.2.60", "lines": ["Let all Mobadan, chiefs, and seekers stand,", "And place the casket near the royal hand."]}, {"id": "E3.2.61", "lines": ["Then through God’s strength, who gave my spirit sight,", "And led my search toward hidden truth and light,"]}, {"id": "E3.2.62", "lines": ["I will declare what lies within that chest,", "Though no hand touch the lock at your behest."]}, {"id": "E3.2.63", "lines": ["Although my eyes are blind, my heart is whole;", "Discerning light is breastplate to my soul.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.64", "lines": ["The king rejoiced, released from fear and pain,", "Like springtime roses after winter rain."]}, {"id": "E3.2.65", "lines": ["Anxiety no longer bent his frame;", "He called the envoy, and the casket came."]}, {"id": "E3.2.66", "lines": ["He summoned all the mighty and the wise,", "And bade the learned sit before his eyes."]}, {"id": "E3.2.67", "lines": ["With Bozorgmehr beside them in the hall,", "The Shah addressed the Roman before all:"]}, {"id": "E3.2.68", "lines": ["“Repeat your message, speak your purpose clear,", "And make your claim before the nobles here.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.69", "lines": ["The Roman spoke, and this is what he said:", "“From this victorious lord, whose fame is spread,"]}, {"id": "E3.2.70", "lines": ["We look to find the answer here made plain,", "Through wisdom worthy of your royal reign."]}, {"id": "E3.2.71", "lines": ["The Mobadan who seek the path of truth,", "The chiefs and warriors, men of age and youth,"]}, {"id": "E3.2.72", "lines": ["Are either gathered at your court today,", "Or serve your throne from every distant way."]}, {"id": "E3.2.73", "lines": ["If these shrewd-hearted sages view this chest,", "Its lock and seal, and undertake the test,"]}, {"id": "E3.2.74", "lines": ["And clearly state what object lies inside,", "With words by tested wisdom as their guide,"]}, {"id": "E3.2.75", "lines": ["Then by that token we will tribute send,", "And keep our pledge as ally and as friend."]}, {"id": "E3.2.76", "lines": ["But if they fail to name the hidden thing,", "Ask tribute no more from the Roman king.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.77", "lines": ["When Bozorgmehr had heard the Roman speak,", "He praised Yazdan whom all the wise must seek."]}, {"id": "E3.2.78", "lines": ["He said, “May this world’s Shah receive bright praise,", "With fortune’s favor through his royal days."]}, {"id": "E3.2.79", "lines": ["Praise to the Master of the sun and moon,", "Who grants the soul its knowledge like a boon."]}, {"id": "E3.2.80", "lines": ["He knows what lies in shadow and in light;", "I seek His wisdom, source of every sight."]}, {"id": "E3.2.81", "lines": ["Within the casket lie three pearls that shine,", "Enclosed beneath a covering rich and fine."]}, {"id": "E3.2.82", "lines": ["One pearl is pierced, the second pierced halfway,", "The third has never known the iron’s way.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.83", "lines": ["The Roman sage, on hearing, brought the key", "To Anooshirvan, that all the court might see."]}, {"id": "E3.2.84", "lines": ["They opened it; a case lay wrapped inside", "In silk that served the precious pearls to hide."]}, {"id": "E3.2.85", "lines": ["Inside the silk three jewels shone intact,", "Confirming that the sage’s words were fact."]}, {"id": "E3.2.86", "lines": ["The first was pierced, the second halfway through,", "The third was whole, as Bozorgmehr foreknew."]}, {"id": "E3.2.87", "lines": ["The Mobadan praised him and let jewels rain;", "The king’s glad face shone bright, released from pain."]}, {"id": "E3.2.88", "lines": ["He filled Bozorgmehr’s mouth with pearls of light,", "While shame oppressed his conscience at the sight."]}, {"id": "E3.2.89", "lines": ["His past conduct oppressed his heart with grief:", "Why had he ever wronged so loyal a chief?"]}, {"id": "E3.2.90", "lines": ["The sage recalled the armlet lost from view,", "The raven and the sleep the monarch knew;"]}, {"id": "E3.2.91", "lines": ["The huntsmen then confirmed the tale as true;", "The raven’s crop, cut open, proved it too:"]}, {"id": "E3.2.92", "lines": ["Three swallowed pearls, ripped from the bird of prey,", "Had washed the sage’s blameless name that day."]}, {"id": "E3.2.93", "lines": ["“What came was fated; grief can bring no gain,", "Nor can regret undo our former pain."]}, {"id": "E3.2.94", "lines": ["When heaven wills,” he said, “the seed takes root;", "Shah, sage, and minister must bear its fruit."]}, {"id": "E3.2.95", "lines": ["What God has written in the stars must be;", "Upon our heads descends His firm decree.”"]}, {"id": "E3.2.96", "lines": ["May joy within the Shah’s own heart remain,", "And keep him ever free from grief and pain."]}, {"id": "E3.2.97", "lines": ["However high a king, he finds his rest", "Through wise advice that calms his troubled breast."]}, {"id": "E3.2.98", "lines": ["The king may hunt, wage war, and feast at ease,", "Give gifts and seek whatever joys may please."]}, {"id": "E3.2.99", "lines": ["Recall the kings who passed before his day:", "Each followed his own will and went away."]}, {"id": "E3.2.100", "lines": ["To gather wealth and bear the troops’ distress,", "Hear harsh complaints and grant the wronged redress;"]}, {"id": "E3.2.101", "lines": ["Such cares of rule and treasure never cease;", "They rob the sage’s heart and soul of peace."]}, {"id": "E3.3.1", "lines": ["Thus matters stood in Anooshirvan’s reign,", "When wisdom held the crown and battle’s rein."]}, {"id": "E3.3.2", "lines": ["He was the Shah and Pahlevan in one,", "A warrior where the fields of war were won."]}, {"id": "E3.3.3", "lines": ["Chief priest, fire-priest, captain of the fight,", "He held the realm through judgment, law, and might."]}, {"id": "E3.3.4", "lines": ["He sent his secret agents everywhere,", "And left no charge to ministers’ sole care."]}, {"id": "E3.3.5", "lines": ["No good or evil, grave or slight in weight,", "Could hide from him or pass beyond his gate."]}, {"id": "E3.3.6", "lines": ["One loyal Mobad from among his men", "Set down this question for the royal pen:"]}, {"id": "E3.3.7", "lines": ["“One time you pass a fault without a word;", "Another time the culprit’s plea is heard,"]}, {"id": "E3.3.8", "lines": ["Yet still he hangs, though begging hard for grace.”", "The Shah replied with justice in his face:"]}, {"id": "E3.3.9", "lines": ["“The man who clings to sin is sick,” he said;", "“I am the healer at his stricken bed."]}, {"id": "E3.3.10", "lines": ["If every cure should fail to make him whole,", "I cease to tend his hardened, sin-bound soul.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.11", "lines": ["Another said, “Be blessed on every side,", "From all ill sheltered, guarded far and wide."]}, {"id": "E3.3.12", "lines": ["The captain left Gorgan without his men,", "And entered woods, apart from public ken."]}, {"id": "E3.3.13", "lines": ["He slept awhile; the Gilak thieves drew near,", "And stripped the heedless captain of his gear.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.14", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “No man should take command", "Who cannot guard the goods in his own hand."]}, {"id": "E3.3.15", "lines": ["How can he guard an army in the fray", "Who lets his own possessions slip away?”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.16", "lines": ["Another said, “Live happy evermore,", "With learned sages feasting at your door."]}, {"id": "E3.3.17", "lines": ["A famous chief is here, whose wealth is vast;", "His treasure has the royal hoard surpassed.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.18", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “That wealth is his by right;", "My crown requires I guard him with my might."]}, {"id": "E3.3.19", "lines": ["I guard his treasure and his life as mine,", "And toil to make his honor grow and shine.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.20", "lines": ["Another said, “Great king, live free from ill;", "Among Rum’s captives, many infants still"]}, {"id": "E3.3.21", "lines": ["Are at the breast.” The Shah gave this decree:", "“The nursing babes at once shall all go free."]}, {"id": "E3.3.22", "lines": ["Send them back to their mothers, free from need;", "Give wealth enough for every mouth to feed.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.23", "lines": ["They wrote, “A hundred wealthy men of Rum", "Would pay to win their freedom from this gloom.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.24", "lines": ["He said, “If fear compels the price they give,", "Sell each for wine and let each captive live."]}, {"id": "E3.3.25", "lines": ["We want no gems of theirs, no golden hoard,", "No slaves, no silver, and no Roman sword.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.26", "lines": ["They told him, “Two rich merchants in the town", "Keep people wakeful when the night comes down."]}, {"id": "E3.3.27", "lines": ["With revel, rebec, harp, and voices raised,", "Their houses shake while others stand amazed.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.28", "lines": ["He answered, “This is no distressing thing;", "Let other wealthy men take joy and sing."]}, {"id": "E3.3.29", "lines": ["Live free from harm, and let your joys abound;", "Let neither grief nor injury be found.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.30", "lines": ["One day they wrote, “May evil eyes be far;", "The Yemen monarch spoke beneath your star."]}, {"id": "E3.3.31", "lines": ["He said, ‘When Anooshirvan begins to speak,", "He names the dead till living hearts grow weak.’”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.32", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “The wise and nobly bred", "Keep faith with absent friends and praise the dead."]}, {"id": "E3.3.33", "lines": ["No friendship can be sound if those apart", "Are cast from memory and from the heart.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.34", "lines": ["Another said, “Your youngest son has bought", "A field so cheap the seller now is caught"]}, {"id": "E3.3.35", "lines": ["In grief, unlike the justice of his sire.”", "The Shah replied, “Such dealing earns my ire."]}, {"id": "E3.3.36", "lines": ["This is not well; return to him his land,", "And leave the purchase money in his hand.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.37", "lines": ["Another said, “O Shah, remote from blame,", "Your once mild heart no longer seems the same."]}, {"id": "E3.3.38", "lines": ["Why has it grown imperious, hot, and strong?”", "The Shah replied, “I had no teeth for long."]}, {"id": "E3.3.39", "lines": ["Then milk alone sustained me, mild and sweet;", "With teeth and strength, I came to feed on meat.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.40", "lines": ["Another said, “Your might is plain to me,", "Your counsel and your knowledge all men see."]}, {"id": "E3.3.41", "lines": ["But how have you surpassed all kings before?", "Why does the world esteem your counsel more?”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.42", "lines": ["“My wisdom,” said the Shah, “outstrips their ken;", "Sense, knowledge, counsel are my serving men."]}, {"id": "E3.3.43", "lines": ["The earth itself my treasury I call,", "And thought the treasurer that commands it all.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.44", "lines": ["Another said, “Your hawk in chase today", "Has taken down an eagle as its prey.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.45", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “Strike off its haughty head,", "And let its carcass hang where branches spread;"]}, {"id": "E3.3.46", "lines": ["The eagle is the monarch of the skies;", "Let none presume against his king to rise!”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.47", "lines": ["Another wrote, “Chief Barzin marched away", "With all his troops at dawn, in full array."]}, {"id": "E3.3.48", "lines": ["A reader of the stars foretold, ‘No more", "Will he be seen, once past the royal door.’”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.49", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “The heavens favor him;", "They will not make his star or fortune dim."]}, {"id": "E3.3.50", "lines": ["Nor stars, nor sun, nor moon shall now destroy", "That chieftain and his army’s strength and joy.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.51", "lines": ["Another learned priest said, “One day the king", "Commanded that a noble man should bring"]}, {"id": "E3.3.52", "lines": ["Reports from all the realm, for justice’s sake,", "And note what good or evil paths men take."]}, {"id": "E3.3.53", "lines": ["Gashasp, the noble scribe, has years of skill;", "Let him take up this charge and serve your will.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.54", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Though far from want or need,", "Gashasp is still possessed by private greed."]}, {"id": "E3.3.55", "lines": ["Choose someone else, experienced and austere,", "With wealth enough and conscience clean and clear:"]}, {"id": "E3.3.56", "lines": ["One who puts duty first, whose hands are pure", "Of private gain, who serves the weak and poor.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.57", "lines": ["One said, “The chief cook nurses grievance still;", "He dresses favored meats with loyal skill."]}, {"id": "E3.3.58", "lines": ["His dishes wait for you where crossroads meet;", "You never come, and no one sits to eat.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.59", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Too much food wearies taste;", "A surfeit turns the finest feast to waste.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.60", "lines": ["Another said, “All thoughtful people fear", "The king rides out with few attendants near."]}, {"id": "E3.3.61", "lines": ["Your friends are troubled by the risks you bear,", "Lest some false suppliant strike you unaware.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.62", "lines": ["He answered, “Justice guards the sovereign’s life;", "With wisdom, it protects him from such strife."]}, {"id": "E3.3.63", "lines": ["Right is the only guard the judge has known,", "When justice is the armor of the throne.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.64", "lines": ["Another said, “O Shah, both wise and great,", "The chief of Khorasan has asked of late:"]}, {"id": "E3.3.65", "lines": ["‘Why is Zarasp dismissed?’” The king replied,", "“He cast my charge and counsel both aside."]}, {"id": "E3.3.66", "lines": ["I bade him lay the treasure-houses bare", "For worthy folk in fortune or despair."]}, {"id": "E3.3.67", "lines": ["The man whose gifts are meager, mean, and small", "Conceals the royal farr that blesses all.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.68", "lines": ["Another said, “Great king, what fault or lack", "Has made your servant Mehrak’s face grow slack,"]}, {"id": "E3.3.69", "lines": ["His wages cut, his visage pale and wan?”", "The Shah replied, “Presumption drove him on."]}, {"id": "E3.3.70", "lines": ["Long service made him arrogant with wine;", "He came to court and crossed the royal line."]}, {"id": "E3.3.71", "lines": ["No former service saved him in my sight;", "Long service does not turn a wrong to right.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.72", "lines": ["A Mobad said, “When Rum-ward armies roam,", "The Shah calls only Iran’s troops from home."]}, {"id": "E3.3.73", "lines": ["He sends Iran’s own troops to every war;", "Rum’s enmity has made their hardships sore.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.74", "lines": ["He answered, “That hostility has grown", "From Ahriman: its root is his alone.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.75", "lines": ["Another said, “You choose a different force", "From former Shahs: what good in rider, horse,"]}, {"id": "E3.3.76", "lines": ["And lion-handed warriors do you seek", "On battle-days when ranks and lances speak?”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.77", "lines": ["He said, “The warlike horseman must not tire", "Of combat, dust, pursuit, and sword and fire."]}, {"id": "E3.3.78", "lines": ["Feast and the field must be to him the same;", "Let him shine out when battle makes its claim."]}, {"id": "E3.3.79", "lines": ["He must not fail when need is at its height;", "Few foes or many must not cause him fright.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.80", "lines": ["Another said, “O Shah, in youth’s fair flower,", "May fortune keep you flawless in your power."]}, {"id": "E3.3.81", "lines": ["A man from Nisa, faithful at the gate,", "Was short when scribes examined tax and rate."]}, {"id": "E3.3.82", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand silver coins were lost;", "He claimed them spent, while scribes disputed cost.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.83", "lines": ["When scribes demanded that he pay his share,", "The king said, “Press him not, but show him care."]}, {"id": "E3.3.84", "lines": ["Give him still more from treasure; let no pain", "Afflict a man already pressed by strain.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.85", "lines": ["Another said, “A Pahlevan was hurt", "And long disabled, cast down in the dirt."]}, {"id": "E3.3.86", "lines": ["Once cured, he charged Rum’s legions, fought, and fell,", "And left small children in the world to dwell.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.87", "lines": ["The Shah commanded, “Grant the children aid;", "Four thousand silver coins shall now be paid."]}, {"id": "E3.3.88", "lines": ["When warriors fall and children still remain,", "Their names, once read, shall bring them yearly gain."]}, {"id": "E3.3.89", "lines": ["Four times each year let silver reach their hand:", "One thousand coins each time, at my command.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.90", "lines": ["Another said, “At Marv the army chief", "Has gathered wealth and brought the people grief."]}, {"id": "E3.3.91", "lines": ["He spends it; people leave the land in pain.”", "The Shah replied, “Restore his ill-got gain."]}, {"id": "E3.3.92", "lines": ["Return the wealth by which the land was drained", "To those from whom that treasure was obtained."]}, {"id": "E3.3.93", "lines": ["Proclaim it through Marv; at his gate shall stand", "A gallows, plain to all within the land."]}, {"id": "E3.3.94", "lines": ["Before his troops and people, hoist him high;", "Hang him alive and head-downward to die,"]}, {"id": "E3.3.95", "lines": ["So that no sepahbod in heart or will", "Will turn again from my command to ill."]}, {"id": "E3.3.96", "lines": ["Why bleed the poor to heap up private gold,", "And feed the flesh while making conscience cold?”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.97", "lines": ["Another said, “God-fearing Shah, your court", "Is thronged with subjects bringing glad report."]}, {"id": "E3.3.98", "lines": ["They bless your justice and give thanks for you.”", "He said, “Thank God no man fears what we do."]}, {"id": "E3.3.99", "lines": ["Let us protect with equity and might", "Both guilty and the innocent by right.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.100", "lines": ["Another said, “O Shah of farr and mind,", "The world is filled with sweets of every kind."]}, {"id": "E3.3.101", "lines": ["At night both lord and servant reel amazed,", "While joyful din leaves every spirit raised.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.102", "lines": ["He answered, “May my people all rejoice,", "And fill the world with one united voice.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.103", "lines": ["Another said, “Detractors criticize", "Your lavish gifts, which they declare unwise:"]}, {"id": "E3.3.104", "lines": ["‘You squander all the wealth that toil has gained.’”", "He answered, “If my wealth should be retained,"]}, {"id": "E3.3.105", "lines": ["And no deserving hand receive its share,", "Then all I gained would vanish into air.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.106", "lines": ["Another said, “Exalted king, may fate", "Keep harm from soul and crown and royal state."]}, {"id": "E3.3.107", "lines": ["The Jews and Christians bear you hidden spite;", "Their double tongues serve Ahriman’s dark might.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.108", "lines": ["He answered, “No king’s greatness can remain", "If those who seek protection meet disdain.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.109", "lines": ["“Mardvi,” another said, “has spent great sums,", "And spends them on himself as each need comes."]}, {"id": "E3.3.110", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand coins from royal store", "Have gone to beggars, to himself still more.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.111", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Our settled law is so:", "To worthy men our treasure ought to go.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.112", "lines": ["Another said, “O Shah, your treasury wanes;", "So much largess has emptied all its gains.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.113", "lines": ["He answered, “Open hands renew the bough;", "Through generous gifts, the tree grows verdant now."]}, {"id": "E3.3.114", "lines": ["The sovereign who reveres Yazdan will hold", "The world itself above his hoarded gold."]}, {"id": "E3.3.115", "lines": ["Only the base find all the world unkind;", "No greed or harshness shall corrupt my mind.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.116", "lines": ["A learned priest said, “Kurukhan has drained", "Great sums from Balkh and left its people pained."]}, {"id": "E3.3.117", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand coins, great king, were paid,", "And in your treasury the sum was laid.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.118", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “We need no wealth that springs", "From subjects’ pain or harsh extortion’s stings."]}, {"id": "E3.3.119", "lines": ["Return it to the folk from whom it came,", "And add from royal stores more in my name."]}, {"id": "E3.3.120", "lines": ["A God-fearing Shah must shield each heart,", "And never let oppression play its part."]}, {"id": "E3.3.121", "lines": ["Tear down his palace; let its walls be clay;", "Let all his splendid dwelling fall away."]}, {"id": "E3.3.122", "lines": ["His palace shall lie ruined on the soil,", "His profit turned to hardship, grief, and toil."]}, {"id": "E3.3.123", "lines": ["Erase his name; let none at court proclaim", "That such a man deserves an honored name.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.124", "lines": ["Another said, “O Shah of glorious race,", "You often speak of Jamshid’s ancient place,"]}, {"id": "E3.3.125", "lines": ["And of Kavus.” Then Anooshirvan replied,", "“May knowledge save those kings from death’s dark tide."]}, {"id": "E3.3.126", "lines": ["I speak of them so that my crown and head", "May be remembered after I am dead.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.127", "lines": ["Another asked, “Why does the Shah conceal", "His secret thoughts from Bahman’s loyal zeal?”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.128", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “He turns from wisdom’s fruit,", "And feeds on lust that rises from the root.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.129", "lines": ["One said, “O Shah who guards the realm from woe,", "Why have your judgments lately seemed so slow?”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.130", "lines": ["He answered, “I take counsel from the wise;", "When greed speaks out, then the voice of Div cries."]}, {"id": "E3.3.131", "lines": ["The heart grows empty, wisdom leaves the brain,", "And neither sense nor judgment can remain.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.132", "lines": ["A learned priest then asked the king of earth", "To speak of kingship and religion’s worth."]}, {"id": "E3.3.133", "lines": ["“Is wisdom in a faithless sovereign’s reign", "Worth more than faith? Make this distinction plain.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.134", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “I said the same before,", "And holy men have heard this ancient lore."]}, {"id": "E3.3.135", "lines": ["No sovereign ever saw a faithless earth;", "Each man holds some belief by name and birth."]}, {"id": "E3.3.136", "lines": ["One worships idols; one holds doctrine pure;", "Each trusts the faith he follows to endure."]}, {"id": "E3.3.137", "lines": ["Heed not the Divs’ words that lead men astray;", "Keep hidden what your inward thoughts would say."]}, {"id": "E3.3.138", "lines": ["But when the great king lacks religious light,", "No one will bless the world with peace and right."]}, {"id": "E3.3.139", "lines": ["True Faith and Kingship are two twins of birth,", "Beneath one royal tent to rule the earth;"]}, {"id": "E3.3.140", "lines": ["Religion has no shelter of its own,", "Nor can the crown maintain its state alone:"]}, {"id": "E3.3.141", "lines": ["Each stands united, partner to its mate;", "Faith guards the crown, and kings protect the state.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.142", "lines": ["Another said, “You spoke before us all;", "These words of yours, O king, I now recall:"]}, {"id": "E3.3.143", "lines": ["‘I am the deputy of Time,’ you said,", "‘Its good and evil rest upon my head."]}, {"id": "E3.3.144", "lines": ["Whatever praise is uttered in the land", "Returns like harvest to my royal hand.’”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.145", "lines": ["He answered, “Yes: the crown of Time is mine;", "Upon my brow its royal glories shine."]}, {"id": "E3.3.146", "lines": ["The world is body, and the king its head;", "That is why crowns are worn,” the monarch said."]}, {"id": "E3.3.147", "lines": ["Another said, “O Shah, the people’s friend,", "May life and kingship flourish without end."]}, {"id": "E3.3.148", "lines": ["Five days have passed, O radiance of the court,", "Since the High Mobad gave his last report.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.149", "lines": ["He answered, “I feel no concern at this;", "He serves my cause, and nothing is amiss.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.150", "lines": ["One said, “O sun-bright Shah of noble fame,", "A suitor comes each morning with his claim."]}, {"id": "E3.3.151", "lines": ["We know his business has gone badly wrong,", "But not what grievance makes him wait so long.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.152", "lines": ["He answered, “In Hijaz thieves plundered him", "Of countless goods and left his fortune dim."]}, {"id": "E3.3.153", "lines": ["I have replaced his losses from my store,", "So trouble need not bruise his spirit more."]}, {"id": "E3.3.154", "lines": ["I keep him here so he may recognize", "The thieves, should they appear before his eyes.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.155", "lines": ["Another said, “O Shah of glorious birth,", "Whose justice and whose bounty bless the earth,"]}, {"id": "E3.3.156", "lines": ["From Kioumars, the first of kings, till now,", "No crown has pressed so wise and just a brow.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.157", "lines": ["He said, “I thank Yazdan, whose wise decree", "Has made the course of things what now we see.”"]}, {"id": "E3.3.158", "lines": ["Wise Anooshirvan’s judgments now are past;", "The world is old; my youthful thoughts hold fast."]}, {"id": "E3.3.159", "lines": ["My gift for verse has not yet reached its height;", "In age, my words are filled with fiery light."]}, {"id": "E3.3.160", "lines": ["Through many years I labored at this rhyme,", "Unknown to Saturn, sun, and moon through time."]}, {"id": "E3.3.161", "lines": ["No one recalled this book or gave it praise,", "In public or in secret, through those days."]}, {"id": "E3.3.162", "lines": ["But since Mahmud has crowned my verse, its name", "Has filled the world with praise and ringing fame."]}, {"id": "E3.3.163", "lines": ["May all the age beneath his name be blest;", "May heaven on his crown forever rest."]}, {"id": "E3.3.164", "lines": ["The preacher names Mahmud; the cross bows down", "Before his throne in homage to his crown."]}, {"id": "E3.3.165", "lines": ["The idolaters of Hind he drives away;", "His sword gleams bright as silk in light of day."]}, {"id": "E3.4.1", "lines": ["Now read the letter Shah Anooshirvan wrote,", "And weigh the wisdom carried in its note."]}, {"id": "E3.4.2", "lines": ["He called a scribe and ordered him to write", "A letter rich in counsel and insight:"]}, {"id": "E3.4.3", "lines": ["“It comes from one exalted, bright of face,", "Whose greatness bends high heaven to his grace."]}, {"id": "E3.4.4", "lines": ["A just and generous king in word and deed,", "He gives his treasure where the worthy plead."]}, {"id": "E3.4.5", "lines": ["He raises Qobad’s throne and deathless name,", "And bears the crown of justice, state, and fame."]}, {"id": "E3.4.6", "lines": ["With grace, high stature, conduct, and renown,", "He holds all blessings granted by the crown."]}, {"id": "E3.4.7", "lines": ["He sends these counsels to his royal son,", "To prince Hormizd, whose reign has now begun."]}, {"id": "E3.4.8", "lines": ["In Pahlavi these counsels are addressed", "To you, with knowledge of the pure Faith blessed."]}, {"id": "E3.4.9", "lines": ["Through God may you be glad, victorious, bright,", "A crowned Shah raised in Fortune’s radiant light."]}, {"id": "E3.4.10", "lines": ["This lucky month, upon Khordad’s fair day,", "With stars that shine and brighten all your way,"]}, {"id": "E3.4.11", "lines": ["We set the golden crown upon your head,", "As once our father crowned us in his stead."]}, {"id": "E3.4.12", "lines": ["We grant the blessing glorious Qobad gave,", "That blessed our reign and made our spirit brave."]}, {"id": "E3.4.13", "lines": ["Be vigilant and master of the earth;", "Be wise and noble, knowing virtue’s worth."]}, {"id": "E3.4.14", "lines": ["Increase in knowledge; let your soul draw near", "To God, who makes the path before you clear."]}, {"id": "E3.4.15", "lines": ["We questioned one whose wisdom years had tried,", "An aged sage with knowledge for his guide:"]}, {"id": "E3.4.16", "lines": ["‘Which man is nearest God? And who is he", "That walks the straightest road, from terror free?’"]}, {"id": "E3.4.17", "lines": ["He answered, ‘Let true knowledge be your way,", "So people bless the justice you display."]}, {"id": "E3.4.18", "lines": ["The sage derives no greatness from the dust;", "Make your pure spirit wise as well as just.’"]}, {"id": "E3.4.19", "lines": ["By knowledge kings make bright the realm they own;", "May wisdom bring good fortune to your throne."]}, {"id": "E3.4.20", "lines": ["Let no false pledge bring shame upon your head;", "The dust shall be the oath-breaker’s last bed."]}, {"id": "E3.4.21", "lines": ["Do not punish the innocent with blame,", "Nor trust the slanderer’s deceitful claim."]}, {"id": "E3.4.22", "lines": ["Let every ordinance of yours be just;", "In justice place your spirit’s deepest trust."]}, {"id": "E3.4.23", "lines": ["If you would lend new splendor to the throne,", "Let falsehood never make your tongue its own."]}, {"id": "E3.4.24", "lines": ["Three evils strip a monarch of his grace,", "And hurl his royal farr from its high place:"]}, {"id": "E3.4.25", "lines": ["Falsehood in speech, the breaking of a vow,", "And seizing wealth that makes your subjects bow."]}, {"id": "E3.4.26", "lines": ["The wealth of others is your treasure’s foe;", "From such a hoard your final grief will grow."]}, {"id": "E3.4.27", "lines": ["Take joy in wealth your labor made secure,", "And shelter high and low with justice pure."]}, {"id": "E3.4.28", "lines": ["Reward the man who walks the upright way,", "Oppose the evildoer without delay."]}, {"id": "E3.4.29", "lines": ["Though honor in the world around you grows,", "Remember toil, misfortune, grief, and woes."]}, {"id": "E3.4.30", "lines": ["Whatever one becomes, the world remains", "A transient house of losses, dust, and pains."]}, {"id": "E3.4.31", "lines": ["Seek worth, and keep the wise forever near,", "If Fortune’s praise is what you hold most dear."]}, {"id": "E3.4.32", "lines": ["By knowledge rise, and let its counsel guide", "Your steps, that harm may never reach your side."]}, {"id": "E3.4.33", "lines": ["Cherish the man who serves within your sight,", "And tramples down your foe in loyal fight."]}, {"id": "E3.4.34", "lines": ["When kingly gold is set upon your head,", "Discern the noble road from paths of dread."]}, {"id": "E3.4.35", "lines": ["Keep always in your presence one wise guide;", "As dear as life, let him stand at your side."]}, {"id": "E3.4.36", "lines": ["The great men and the merchants of the town", "Must share in justice underneath your crown."]}, {"id": "E3.4.37", "lines": ["In great and little matters, keep in mind", "The man in whom both skill and sense you find."]}, {"id": "E3.4.38", "lines": ["Give battle-gear to no unworthy man;", "When need arrives, he may betray your plan."]}, {"id": "E3.4.39", "lines": ["He yields you to the foe; the arms you gave", "May serve to rout the troops they ought to save."]}, {"id": "E3.4.40", "lines": ["Be generous to all who live distressed;", "Fear evil deeds and Fortune’s sudden test."]}, {"id": "E3.4.41", "lines": ["Discern the secret springs within your heart;", "Make no false show of virtue or of art."]}, {"id": "E3.4.42", "lines": ["Be measured; keep your giving well controlled;", "Hear seasoned counsel from the wise and old."]}, {"id": "E3.4.43", "lines": ["Turn to religion; keep its light in view,", "To bridle wrath and envy springing through;"]}, {"id": "E3.4.44", "lines": ["For righteous faith will keep your spirit sound,", "Where wisdom, peace, and temperance are found."]}, {"id": "E3.4.45", "lines": ["Proportion all expenses to your store;", "Do not grow anxious, always seeking more."]}, {"id": "E3.4.46", "lines": ["Keep to the precedents of kings of old,", "Let justice shape the sovereign power you hold."]}, {"id": "E3.4.47", "lines": ["The unjust Shah is cursed with every breath;", "Choose justice, not the road that leads to death."]}, {"id": "E3.4.48", "lines": ["Where are the kings who wore the crown of state?", "Where are their chiefs, the fortunate and great?"]}, {"id": "E3.4.49", "lines": ["Their fame alone remains to mark their day;", "This fleeting world permits no lasting stay."]}, {"id": "E3.4.50", "lines": ["Command no bloodshed lightly; do not send", "The army forth without a worthy end."]}, {"id": "E3.4.51", "lines": ["Heed this grave letter; fix it in your heart;", "From worldly greed keep soul and sense apart."]}, {"id": "E3.4.52", "lines": ["I wished you well; I sought to make you wise,", "And gave you knowledge that the learned prize."]}, {"id": "E3.4.53", "lines": ["By Him who rules the sun and moon, keep clear", "Of Divs and grant their power no foothold here."]}, {"id": "E3.4.54", "lines": ["Keep this, my letter, by you every day;", "Let wisdom speak, and let your heart obey."]}, {"id": "E3.4.55", "lines": ["If you leave deeds the world will long recall,", "Your name and greatness shall not fade at all."]}, {"id": "E3.4.56", "lines": ["May the world’s Maker be your refuge still;", "May time and earth obey your royal will."]}, {"id": "E3.4.57", "lines": ["May high heaven turn according to your aim,", "And keep you far from deeds that merit blame."]}, {"id": "E3.4.58", "lines": ["May no misfortune bar your path to joy,", "Nor any loss your happiness destroy."]}, {"id": "E3.4.59", "lines": ["May Time forever serve your royal throne;", "May all your ill-wishers be overthrown."]}, {"id": "E3.4.60", "lines": ["May moon and Jupiter your throne attend;", "May heaven’s stars their aid to Fortune lend."]}, {"id": "E3.4.61", "lines": ["May your crown light the world with shining rays;", "May kings’ proud splendor pale before its blaze.”"]}, {"id": "E3.4.62", "lines": ["He stored the letter, anxious, insecure;", "In this frail world, no mortal can endure."]}, {"id": "E3.4.63", "lines": ["A king well counseled, modest, wise, and just,", "Should couple strength with courage and with trust."]}, {"id": "E3.4.64", "lines": ["Pure in the Faith, he trusts in God each day,", "And lets both strength and valor guide his way."]}, {"id": "E3.4.65", "lines": ["Look closely: who possesses every trait?", "Praise him; such virtues mark the truly great."]}, {"id": "E3.4.66", "lines": ["He shines like Jupiter, equipped for fight,", "With sword and jowshan, striving for the right."]}, {"id": "E3.4.67", "lines": ["He wrests the realm from those who idols prize,", "And in his heart the pure Faith’s beauty lies."]}, {"id": "E3.4.68", "lines": ["Now generosity shines clear and bright;", "King Mahmud rules the world in all his might."]}, {"id": "E3.4.69", "lines": ["He takes delight in battle and in cheer;", "The world knows both have long to him been dear."]}, {"id": "E3.4.70", "lines": ["O Abul-Qasim, may God grant the age", "Long joy in seeing such a sovereign sage!"]}, {"id": "E3.5.1", "lines": ["There was an elder skilled in ancient speech,", "Who knew past deeds and had much lore to teach."]}, {"id": "E3.5.2", "lines": ["He read a Pahlavi account one day,", "And told what wise Anooshirvan would say."]}, {"id": "E3.5.3", "lines": ["It said a Mobad questioned, filled with awe:", "“How should a worshipper approach God’s law?"]}, {"id": "E3.5.4", "lines": ["How should he call in secret prayer above,", "To win an answer and the Master’s love?"]}, {"id": "E3.5.5", "lines": ["A man may stretch his arms toward the sky,", "And plead before Yazdan, time’s Lord, on high,"]}, {"id": "E3.5.6", "lines": ["Yet fail to gain the answer he implores,", "And turn in grief from prayer’s still-bolted doors.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.7", "lines": ["The conquering Shah replied, “Let measure guide", "Requests to God; set boundless wants aside."]}, {"id": "E3.5.8", "lines": ["When wishes overrun the heart’s restraint,", "Desire becomes the soul’s consuming taint.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.9", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Who merits what is good?", "Who bears true greatness, rightly understood?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.10", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “The man who gathers gold,", "Then hoards it fast and keeps his treasure cold,"]}, {"id": "E3.5.11", "lines": ["Is unfit for the throne or royal place;", "Good Fortune turns away and hides her face."]}, {"id": "E3.5.12", "lines": ["But blessed is the man whose open hand", "Gives freely from the wealth at his command.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.13", "lines": ["“What gives rise to wisdom?” asked the sage,", "“Who gathers fruit from learning, age by age?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.14", "lines": ["“The learned find that joy,” the Shah replied,", "“And modest men of noble birth beside.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.15", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Who gains from what he knows?", "Through lack of knowledge, whose misfortune grows?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.16", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Who cherishes the wise", "Will cherish life and see its profit rise."]}, {"id": "E3.5.17", "lines": ["When knowledge grows, the soul receives its gain;", "Its lack brings grief, anxiety, and pain.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.18", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Does learning’s light outshine", "Both royal grace and majesty divine?"]}, {"id": "E3.5.19", "lines": ["For grace and majesty adorn the throne,", "And make a king in state and glory known.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.20", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “With knowledge joined to grace,", "A man may hold the world in his embrace."]}, {"id": "E3.5.21", "lines": ["Wisdom and grace, good name and noble birth:", "May heaven grant these four to crown your worth.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.22", "lines": ["“Who merits kingship and the royal seat?”", "The Mobad asked, “Whom does the throne defeat?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.23", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “First seek the aid of Him", "Who rules the world, whose power can never dim."]}, {"id": "E3.5.24", "lines": ["Next, bounty, knowledge, custom, justice too,", "And care for those who bring their wrongs to you."]}, {"id": "E3.5.25", "lines": ["Third, give authority to men whose worth", "Deserves such rank among the men of earth."]}, {"id": "E3.5.26", "lines": ["Fourth, let no good or evil deed evade", "Your knowledge; let no wrong remain in shade."]}, {"id": "E3.5.27", "lines": ["Fifth, do not take an enemy for a friend;", "A king must shun injustice to the end."]}, {"id": "E3.5.28", "lines": ["When grace and wisdom, faith and fortune meet,", "Then he is worthy of the royal seat."]}, {"id": "E3.5.29", "lines": ["But if those qualities should disappear,", "The king grows dim and loses luster here."]}, {"id": "E3.5.30", "lines": ["An evil name outlives his dying breath;", "No joyful garden waits beyond his death.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.31", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “What turns the noble mind", "To deeds of evil, base and ill-designed?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.32", "lines": ["He answered, “Greed and want, when they begin,", "Turn noble minds to foul Divs steeped in sin."]}, {"id": "E3.5.33", "lines": ["Who yearns for heaven drives the Div away,", "And turns from dark temptation to the day;"]}, {"id": "E3.5.34", "lines": ["Though heaps of worldly gold before him shine,", "His fervent prayer breaks Ahriman’s design.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.35", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “How many kinds of speech?", "And what can thought and wisdom gain from each?"]}, {"id": "E3.5.36", "lines": ["Some bring us tears, while others bring acclaim,", "Or treasure, rank, contentment, and a name.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.37", "lines": ["Said Anooshirvan, “The sage has marked them all,", "And weighed their rise, their value, and their fall."]}, {"id": "E3.5.38", "lines": ["First comes profitable speech, the harmless kind,", "Which leaves no wound in body, soul, or mind."]}, {"id": "E3.5.39", "lines": ["Next, measured speech, whose speaker must possess", "A heart well stocked with knowledge to express."]}, {"id": "E3.5.40", "lines": ["He speaks as much as proves of use that day;", "His words remain when he has passed away."]}, {"id": "E3.5.41", "lines": ["Third comes the wit whose words bring laughter’s light,", "Yet keep his honor and his standing bright."]}, {"id": "E3.5.42", "lines": ["The fourth is idle speech that wastes the hour,", "A fleeting pastime void of use or power;"]}, {"id": "E3.5.43", "lines": ["The fifth is falsehood, poisonous and vile,", "A tongue that ruins kingdoms through its guile:"]}, {"id": "E3.5.44", "lines": ["It stains the speaker with enduring shame,", "And casts his spirit into hellish flame.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.45", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Though rich in learned lore,", "You still seek knowledge, ever asking more."]}, {"id": "E3.5.46", "lines": ["Your soul is kindled by its growing light;", "Tell me: does learning ever reach its height?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.47", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Through all that I have learned,", "My soul’s desire for wisdom still has burned."]}, {"id": "E3.5.48", "lines": ["Avoid wrongdoing; look to knowledge still,", "More precious than the crown or royal will.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.49", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “No scholar have I found", "Whose learning was so vast, his mind so sound,"]}, {"id": "E3.5.50", "lines": ["That any man of wisdom might declare:", "‘No further teaching such a mind can bear.’”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.51", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Can treasure satisfy", "A man before he lies in dust to die?"]}, {"id": "E3.5.52", "lines": ["Yet knowledge stands above a treasure’s worth;", "The learned man is honored on the earth."]}, {"id": "E3.5.53", "lines": ["Our words endure when flesh and fortunes fail;", "No gathered treasure weighs in wisdom’s scale.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.54", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Does learning’s flame burn best", "In ancient sages, brighter than the rest?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.55", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Although a man is old,", "His knowledge keeps his inward spirit bold."]}, {"id": "E3.5.56", "lines": ["You should prefer him to a foolish youth,", "Whose worth is hollow, lacking age and truth.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.57", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “You spoke in days gone by", "Of former kings and thrones they held on high."]}, {"id": "E3.5.58", "lines": ["Now when you name them, all the great men hear", "A sigh that rises from your heart in fear.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.59", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “This custom grieves me so:", "To come as king, then have to rise and go;"]}, {"id": "E3.5.60", "lines": ["To set this world in order, rule the day,", "Then leave it all and lightly pass away.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.61", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Your former way was clear:", "You spoke to all in nobler terms of cheer."]}, {"id": "E3.5.62", "lines": ["Now you despise them and say little more", "Of present matters or the days before.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.63", "lines": ["Said Anooshirvan, “I have spoken long;", "Now deeds must prove if what I said was strong.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.64", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Your prayers in earlier days", "Before the sacred fire gave briefer praise."]}, {"id": "E3.5.65", "lines": ["Your praises now are longer than before;", "Your pleas and lamentations swell still more.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.66", "lines": ["He answered, “Holy God lifts from the dust", "His worshipper who puts in Him his trust."]}, {"id": "E3.5.67", "lines": ["He bends the turning sky toward His slave,", "And makes the world obey the gift He gave."]}, {"id": "E3.5.68", "lines": ["If such a slave gives thanks with meager breath,", "Let hardship hold him near distress and death.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.69", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Since you became our king,", "What greater thanks to God does kingship bring?"]}, {"id": "E3.5.70", "lines": ["What gives you joy and makes your gladness grow,", "And fills your foes with terror, grief, and woe?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.71", "lines": ["He answered, “Thanks to God, our fortune stood;", "Our days have turned beneath His grace for good."]}, {"id": "E3.5.72", "lines": ["No rival ever sought to rise so high", "But turned away in tears, with downcast eye."]}, {"id": "E3.5.73", "lines": ["My foes were humbled when they met my might", "And saw my heavy gorz raised in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.74", "lines": ["The priest went on, “In eastern wars your hand", "Was swift and eager, fearless in command."]}, {"id": "E3.5.75", "lines": ["But when you led your armies toward the West,", "With patience and delay you met the test.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.76", "lines": ["And Anooshirvan said, “The youthful mind", "Leaves thoughts of toil and suffering behind."]}, {"id": "E3.5.77", "lines": ["But when a man has come to sixty years,", "He takes a gentler road through age and fears."]}, {"id": "E3.5.78", "lines": ["Thanks to the all-providing Lord of all,", "Who authors Fortune’s rising and its fall,"]}, {"id": "E3.5.79", "lines": ["I had great prowess in my younger days,", "And did not fear how fortune changed its ways."]}, {"id": "E3.5.80", "lines": ["Now age brings knowledge, counsel, wealth to give;", "With open hands I spend the years I live."]}, {"id": "E3.5.81", "lines": ["The world obeys my rule and firm command,", "And heaven is my breastplate where I stand.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.82", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “The Shahs who held this throne", "Made both their public thoughts and secrets known."]}, {"id": "E3.5.83", "lines": ["Your words are briefer and your secrets more,", "Yet you surpass the famous kings before.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.84", "lines": ["He answered, “Kings who trust Yazdan’s decree", "From worldly burdens keep their spirits free."]}, {"id": "E3.5.85", "lines": ["They need not bear the world’s distress alone;", "The Maker guards this kingdom as His own.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.86", "lines": ["“I see the kings who should rejoice and sing,”", "The Mobad said, “bowed down by care’s dark wing.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.87", "lines": ["And Anooshirvan said, “The man of sense", "Meets fear of loss with prudence as defense.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.88", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “The Shahs of former days", "Let neither grief nor battle cloud their ways."]}, {"id": "E3.5.89", "lines": ["Their feasts were never spoiled by fear or fight;", "Their cups remained their pleasure and delight.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.90", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “In cups they lost their fame,", "And drunken pleasure dimmed their royal name."]}, {"id": "E3.5.91", "lines": ["With me, my name has conquered thirst for wine;", "Time’s spirit is a servant now to mine.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.92", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Old Shahs preserved their health,", "With drugs and doctors, guarding life like wealth.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.93", "lines": ["He answered, “If a man’s time has not come,", "And heaven’s final tabira stays dumb,"]}, {"id": "E3.5.94", "lines": ["He stands secure; no drug has special worth,", "For time itself protects him on the earth."]}, {"id": "E3.5.95", "lines": ["But when a man must leave this mortal state,", "No remedy can hold him back from fate.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.96", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “You praise Yazdan at length,", "Yet little joy seems left to lend you strength."]}, {"id": "E3.5.97", "lines": ["You praise the Maker, but your soul bears care;", "Some hidden grief you seem indeed to bear.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.98", "lines": ["“I have no care,” said Anooshirvan then;", "“My heart accepts what heaven brings to men."]}, {"id": "E3.5.99", "lines": ["I fear that those who praise me to my face", "And bless my faith with overcolored grace,"]}, {"id": "E3.5.100", "lines": ["May show a fervor greater than they feel;", "I seek to know what subjects’ hearts conceal.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.101", "lines": ["“Why do we cherish children?” asked the sage,", "“And seek a home, a name, and ripe old age?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.102", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Who leaves a child behind", "Will not be wiped from memory and mind."]}, {"id": "E3.5.103", "lines": ["Who has a child finds sweetness in his days,", "And for its sake avoids wrongdoing’s ways."]}, {"id": "E3.5.104", "lines": ["When he departs, his grief is less severe:", "He leaves a child to shed a loving tear.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.105", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Who rests from toil and care?", "Whose kindness leaves him nothing but despair?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.106", "lines": ["He answered, “God’s true worshipper will hold", "The reins of fortune, needing no more gold."]}, {"id": "E3.5.107", "lines": ["He seeks no increase and so lives at ease;", "If he desired more, fear would bend his knees."]}, {"id": "E3.5.108", "lines": ["As for good deeds and secret hopes to aid,", "The thankless leave the giver ill repaid."]}, {"id": "E3.5.109", "lines": ["The man who plans good works for thankless men", "Will see his kindness buried out of ken.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.110", "lines": ["“The evildoer dies,” the Mobad said,", "“His name and fame lie buried with the dead."]}, {"id": "E3.5.111", "lines": ["The righteous man will also pass away,", "And destiny will count his every day."]}, {"id": "E3.5.112", "lines": ["Why praise good deeds when death will claim us all,", "And good and bad must answer to its call?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.113", "lines": ["And Anooshirvan replied, “Good deeds will find", "A ready market in the human mind."]}, {"id": "E3.5.114", "lines": ["The doer dies; his name survives decay,", "His soul finds rest with God beyond the clay."]}, {"id": "E3.5.115", "lines": ["Who fails in goodness will not find his rest,", "And leaves an evil memory in each breast.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.116", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “Of all the ills we dread,", "Death is the worst. What course now lies ahead?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.117", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “When leaving this dark earth,", "The life then gained will have a purer birth."]}, {"id": "E3.5.118", "lines": ["Whoever lived in fear and grief and strife", "Must mourn that dark and sorrow-laden life."]}, {"id": "E3.5.119", "lines": ["Yet Shah or subject quits this world of pain,", "And leaves its dread, its injury, and chain.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.120", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “What brings the gravest woes", "Of all the hurt and harm a mortal knows?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.121", "lines": ["He answered, “Anger, grief, and fear combined", "Bring heavy burdens to the troubled mind."]}, {"id": "E3.5.122", "lines": ["Fear, anger; all are grief, however named;", "For grief has never rightly been acclaimed.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.123", "lines": ["“How can we flee from these?” the Mobad cried,", "“The world gives cause for tears on every side.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.124", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “The road is knowledge bright;", "The sage keeps cheer in darkness and in light.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.125", "lines": ["“Which one of us has greatest store of treasure?”", "The Mobad asked, “and fullest share of pleasure?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.126", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “The man with least distress", "Has greater treasure than the rest possess.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.127", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Which fault is held most vile,", "And furthest from both worth and heaven’s smile?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.128", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “A woman lacking shame,", "Whose voice is never gentle, merits blame."]}, {"id": "E3.5.129", "lines": ["In men, the worst is folly they obey,", "Which holds them captive till their dying day.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.130", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Who feels the least dismay?”", "“The shameless man,” the Shah began to say."]}, {"id": "E3.5.131", "lines": ["“He goes before his God weighed down with sin,", "Yet feels no shame for all the dark within.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.132", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Who keeps his conduct right,", "Whose soul and wisdom hold the heart upright?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.133", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Who toils through loss and gain,", "And does no evil despite joy or pain.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.134", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Who ranks above the rest,", "And stands among all humankind as best?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.135", "lines": ["“The patient man,” the Shah replied, “whose worth", "Is greater than the rest upon this earth;"]}, {"id": "E3.5.136", "lines": ["Who does no evil for the gains it brings,", "Nor dreams of greatness won through wicked things."]}, {"id": "E3.5.137", "lines": ["Next, one who gives and asks for no return,", "Whose heart is free of shadows of concern."]}, {"id": "E3.5.138", "lines": ["Third, one who strives for God and for the right,", "With wisdom and a spirit pure and bright.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.139", "lines": ["“What does the heart most dread?” the elder said.", "“The harm to which our own misdeeds have led.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.140", "lines": ["“What gift is best?” the Mobad asked. “What deed", "Exalts a giver through the help men need?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.141", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “In loss and gain alike,", "Withhold no gift from those whom need may strike.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.142", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Explain the world’s design,", "Its open workings and its hidden sign."]}, {"id": "E3.5.143", "lines": ["Whatever action comes, for loss or gain,", "Should we accept its profit and its pain?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.144", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Above the ancient sky", "Yazdan of knowledge holds His power on high."]}, {"id": "E3.5.145", "lines": ["Though sky is knowing, mindful, old, and vast,", "Above all lords the living God stands fast."]}, {"id": "E3.5.146", "lines": ["Walk the straight path and keep disaster far,", "And do not charge your fortune to a star."]}, {"id": "E3.5.147", "lines": ["Ascribe no good or evil to the sky;", "Both come from Him whose power cannot die."]}, {"id": "E3.5.148", "lines": ["He has no peer, the One whose will is cause,", "Whose word gives being, judgment, rule, and laws."]}, {"id": "E3.5.149", "lines": ["He was, He is, and ever shall endure,", "Beyond all change, eternal, whole, and pure.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.150", "lines": ["“The body is the lodging of the soul;", "Which of the two feels pain and pays the toll?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.151", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “The living body knows", "Its pain while soul within its chamber glows."]}, {"id": "E3.5.152", "lines": ["When soul departs and leaves its mortal place,", "The body loses sense and living grace."]}, {"id": "E3.5.153", "lines": ["When soul is gone, the body’s order fails,", "And dissolution’s quiet hand prevails.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.154", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Can need be kept concealed", "So that its secret never is revealed?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.155", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “The wise discern that need,", "Yet endless toil awaits the slave of greed."]}, {"id": "E3.5.156", "lines": ["For greed is never satisfied with treasure;", "It hungers past all boundary and measure.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.157", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Among the kings of old,", "Whose faith and wisdom ancient tales have told,"]}, {"id": "E3.5.158", "lines": ["Whom do you know as worthy of our praise,", "Now he is dead, O monarch of our days?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.159", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “That king deserves acclaim", "Who serves his God and turns from deeds of shame."]}, {"id": "E3.5.160", "lines": ["He fears Yazdan who gave all things their birth,", "And rests from fear and trouble on the earth."]}, {"id": "E3.5.161", "lines": ["He fills the hearts of good men with good cheer,", "And makes the wicked tremble in their fear."]}, {"id": "E3.5.162", "lines": ["He arms his troops from treasures of the crown,", "And foils the plots of those who tear it down."]}, {"id": "E3.5.163", "lines": ["He questions all the sages of the field,", "And keeps his secrets from his foes concealed.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.164", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “Where does true worship start,", "And who draws near to God with faithful heart?”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.165", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Seek meanings finely spun;", "Let all your soul attend till truth is won."]}, {"id": "E3.5.166", "lines": ["First know that God is One, without a peer,", "A truth that brief instruction makes most clear."]}, {"id": "E3.5.167", "lines": ["Then thank Him for the mercies He has shown;", "Trust Him who rules both earth and heaven alone."]}, {"id": "E3.5.168", "lines": ["Fear Him when evil tempts your heart astray;", "Trust Him when you pursue the righteous way."]}, {"id": "E3.5.169", "lines": ["If good at heart and wise in all you do,", "You win respect from those who meet with you."]}, {"id": "E3.5.170", "lines": ["If you let evil in your spirit dwell,", "Your soul has sent its burden on to Hell."]}, {"id": "E3.5.171", "lines": ["Do not feel settled in this passing place;", "The world conceals its counsel and its face."]}, {"id": "E3.5.172", "lines": ["Attend to works of faith; you need not fear", "That harm will reach you through their practice here."]}, {"id": "E3.5.173", "lines": ["Let wisdom teach your heart and clear your view;", "Do not let fortune make a fool of you."]}, {"id": "E3.5.174", "lines": ["And do not join the guilty in their strife,", "Nor make their wrong the pattern of your life."]}, {"id": "E3.5.175", "lines": ["Do not give your heart to this fleeting show;", "Consider what the other world will know."]}, {"id": "E3.5.176", "lines": ["Let your seat always be among the wise,", "And seek the deathless joys that heaven supplies."]}, {"id": "E3.5.177", "lines": ["For all we hold on earth will pass away,", "And reason scorns the pleasures of a day."]}, {"id": "E3.5.178", "lines": ["Incline to sense and counsel; wisdom’s road", "Will guide your heart toward God’s secure abode."]}, {"id": "E3.5.179", "lines": ["Speak measured words; let this truth check your tongue:", "The world is old, and you are very young."]}, {"id": "E3.5.180", "lines": ["Do not be drunk with pleasures of the day;", "Do not let wickedness direct your way."]}, {"id": "E3.5.181", "lines": ["Restrain your heart from what can never be,", "And give such largess as is fit and free."]}, {"id": "E3.5.182", "lines": ["Withhold no gift, though friends should ask to take", "Your eyes, your brain, your skin for friendship’s sake."]}, {"id": "E3.5.183", "lines": ["When friends must settle what is owed or due,", "No judge need stand between the faithful two."]}, {"id": "E3.5.184", "lines": ["If you consort with foes, then guard your part,", "So none can gain a purchase on your heart."]}, {"id": "E3.5.185", "lines": ["Who seeks the path of goodness must possess", "Restraint and modesty and gentleness."]}, {"id": "E3.5.186", "lines": ["Do not let boasting magnify your name;", "The just man counts a lie a cause for shame."]}, {"id": "E3.5.187", "lines": ["The just regard high station as thin air,", "And do not scorn the poor man in despair."]}, {"id": "E3.5.188", "lines": ["If someone speaks with malice, keep your mind", "Free from the anger such words leave behind."]}, {"id": "E3.5.189", "lines": ["If, knowing you are weak, he breaks all bounds,", "And hurls harsh language forth in wrathful sounds,"]}, {"id": "E3.5.190", "lines": ["Reply with measured terms and fitting speech;", "Let fresh and kindly words be what you teach."]}, {"id": "E3.5.191", "lines": ["If kindness brings him back to self-command,", "He will repent and seek your pardoning hand."]}, {"id": "E3.5.192", "lines": ["Devote no leisure wholly to delight;", "The wise see idleness as loss of light."]}, {"id": "E3.5.193", "lines": ["Be diligent in all you undertake;", "Let learning guide the choices that you make."]}, {"id": "E3.5.194", "lines": ["Begin no deed whose ending brings regret", "Or lasting anger you cannot forget."]}, {"id": "E3.5.195", "lines": ["Have pity on the man bowed by distress;", "Do not increase his anguish or his stress."]}, {"id": "E3.5.196", "lines": ["The sage who trains his heart to patience here", "Is never scorned within the Maker’s sphere."]}, {"id": "E3.5.197", "lines": ["He knows the reach of all his skill and art,", "And in due measure carries out his part."]}, {"id": "E3.5.198", "lines": ["His friends increase the help that they bestow;", "His worth and eminence together grow."]}, {"id": "E3.5.199", "lines": ["The godly man is not distressed to find", "His scattered wealth has all been left behind."]}, {"id": "E3.5.200", "lines": ["Make worship yours; keep all your conduct true;", "Let no deceit take root or dwell in you."]}, {"id": "E3.5.201", "lines": ["There is one charge, one road both straight and plain:", "Incline to God, and in His shade remain.”"]}, {"id": "E3.5.202", "lines": ["If you, O Shah, intend to govern right,", "Good deeds will keep your memory burning bright."]}, {"id": "E3.5.203", "lines": ["So Anooshirvan, though flesh has turned to dust,", "Still lives in fame because his rule was just."]}, {"id": "E3.5.204", "lines": ["The righteous deeds that marked his honored reign", "Will keep his fame while time and earth remain."]}, {"id": "E3.5.205", "lines": ["And while the earth and sky endure above,", "The sages shall recall his soul with love."]}]}, {"id": "E4", "title": "Anooshirvan’s Last Years", "summary": "7 sections · 421 couplets", "path": "/poem/e4/", "couplets": [{"id": "E4.1.1", "lines": ["The ancient book records a truthful sage,", "Whose words preserved the matter age by age."]}, {"id": "E4.1.2", "lines": ["The news from Rum reached Anooshirvan’s throne;", "The message made the death of Caesar known:"]}, {"id": "E4.1.3", "lines": ["“May you live long; great Caesar is no more,", "For time has closed upon his earthly door."]}, {"id": "E4.1.4", "lines": ["Another now receives his realm and crown;", "On him alone the kingship passes down.”"]}, {"id": "E4.1.5", "lines": ["Death filled the Shah’s great soul with grief and care;", "His ruddy face grew yellow with despair."]}, {"id": "E4.1.6", "lines": ["He chose from Iran one of noble birth,", "An envoy skilled in courts across the earth."]}, {"id": "E4.1.7", "lines": ["He sent an envoy to the youthful heir,", "The grandson seated on the Roman chair."]}, {"id": "E4.1.8", "lines": ["He charged him first with many words of grace,", "And said, “From death no man can hide his face.”"]}, {"id": "E4.1.9", "lines": ["Then wrote the Shah, his face grown pale with grief,", "His tearful eyes still finding no relief:"]}, {"id": "E4.1.10", "lines": ["“May God grant life and kindness still to you,", "Though your grandfather’s mortal days are through."]}, {"id": "E4.1.11", "lines": ["All things are born to perish; none may stay", "Within this house of dread upon our way."]}, {"id": "E4.1.12", "lines": ["Though crowned or helmed, no head escapes its fate;", "Death seizes all, the humble and the great."]}, {"id": "E4.1.13", "lines": ["What is a Caesar, Khan, or king of might,", "When fate at last extinguishes his light?"]}, {"id": "E4.1.14", "lines": ["May memory of your grandfather remain,", "And Christ befriend his soul beyond all pain."]}, {"id": "E4.1.15", "lines": ["Now, seated on his throne, your reign is known;", "You wear the fortune that was once his own."]}, {"id": "E4.1.16", "lines": ["Ask us for strength in any hour of need:", "For arms and treasure, troops and noble steeds.”"]}, {"id": "E4.1.17", "lines": ["The envoy took his leave with quickened pace,", "And hurried down the road from that proud place."]}, {"id": "E4.1.18", "lines": ["He reached the court and climbed the palace stair,", "And brought the Shah’s own letter to the heir."]}, {"id": "E4.1.19", "lines": ["When Caesar saw the title on the scroll,", "The Shah’s high style inflamed his youthful soul."]}, {"id": "E4.1.20", "lines": ["He was a hasty youth, new to the crown,", "And met the Shah’s high pride with his own frown."]}, {"id": "E4.1.21", "lines": ["He met the Shah’s own envoy with a stare,", "And gave him neither welcome nor due care."]}, {"id": "E4.1.22", "lines": ["He lodged him far from court; the letter lay", "Unanswered as the hours slipped away."]}, {"id": "E4.1.23", "lines": ["A week went by; his counselors drew near,", "And Caesar spoke, that all his court might hear:"]}, {"id": "E4.1.24", "lines": ["“Now weigh this letter; form a fit reply,", "And set forth good and ill before my eye."]}, {"id": "E4.1.25", "lines": ["Draw up the answer with a Roman hand,", "And let your judgment make our meaning stand.”"]}, {"id": "E4.1.26", "lines": ["The priest replied, “Your servant I remain;", "I serve your royal will through loss or gain.”"]}, {"id": "E4.1.27", "lines": ["The bishops, priests, and counselors withdrew,", "And gathered in their chamber to review."]}, {"id": "E4.1.28", "lines": ["They wrote at once, as Caesar had decreed,", "And shaped their words to match his will and need:"]}, {"id": "E4.1.29", "lines": ["“No tribute from our realm shall ever flow,", "Nor Roman wealth to Persia’s coffers go;"]}, {"id": "E4.1.30", "lines": ["No sovereign serves another as a slave,", "Nor yields the riches that his fathers gave.”"]}, {"id": "E4.1.31", "lines": ["To every throne he wrote in terms made plain,", "To lieges, princes, rulers of his reign."]}, {"id": "E4.1.32", "lines": ["His heading names him Caesar, Rum’s own crown,", "The lord of all its country, field, and town."]}, {"id": "E4.1.33", "lines": ["“The envoy you have sent will bring you word", "Of all he saw at court and all he heard."]}, {"id": "E4.1.34", "lines": ["He will report our grief and joy to all;", "He knows each rise of fortune and each fall."]}, {"id": "E4.1.35", "lines": ["One Caesar died; another, in his stead,", "Now lifts Rum’s lofty banner overhead."]}, {"id": "E4.1.36", "lines": ["He lifts his head above both chiefs and kings,", "Above all lesser lords and lesser things."]}, {"id": "E4.1.37", "lines": ["If Rum’s wise king must bow to your command,", "What king will still respect our crown and land?”"]}, {"id": "E4.1.38", "lines": ["The envoy heard their counsel had been weighed,", "And came to claim the answer they had made."]}, {"id": "E4.1.39", "lines": ["They gave him robes of honor, poor and slight,", "A gift unworthy of his master’s might."]}, {"id": "E4.1.40", "lines": ["Then Caesar said, “I am no slave to you,", "Nor less than Chin’s or Heytal’s rulers too."]}, {"id": "E4.1.41", "lines": ["To slight a mighty ruler is not wise,", "Though your Shah rules the world beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "E4.1.42", "lines": ["A man with many foes is truly great;", "Both foes and friends cling close around my state."]}, {"id": "E4.1.43", "lines": ["Why grudge the greatness justly mine to hold,", "And set a candle by the sun’s pure gold?"]}, {"id": "E4.1.44", "lines": ["No trial can diminish what I own,", "Nor blood of battle shake my royal throne."]}, {"id": "E4.1.45", "lines": ["Go tell your Shah that Caesar is no slave,", "Nor owes his crown to any grace he gave!"]}, {"id": "E4.1.46", "lines": ["If fortune crowned him master of his land,", "Rum also placed her scepter in my hand."]}, {"id": "E4.1.47", "lines": ["Report what you have witnessed, plain and true;", "We yield no tribute and no dread to you!”"]}, {"id": "E4.1.48", "lines": ["They placed the robe upon the envoy’s frame,", "Then brought his charger, worthy of his name."]}, {"id": "E4.1.49", "lines": ["He left and made no halt upon the road,", "Until he reached the Shah’s august abode."]}, {"id": "E4.1.50", "lines": ["He told the Shah what Caesar’s court had done,", "What words were spoken by the Roman son."]}, {"id": "E4.1.51", "lines": ["The Shah was grieved by all he had to say:", "“You bore much hardship on that weary way."]}, {"id": "E4.1.52", "lines": ["I know that one who follows passion’s will,", "In blindness earns the pain that waits him still."]}, {"id": "E4.1.53", "lines": ["If he mistakes a foe for one who stands", "As friend, his heart has slipped from reason’s hands."]}, {"id": "E4.1.54", "lines": ["He thinks no friend but him is ours to win,", "As though he were not blood and brain and skin."]}, {"id": "E4.1.55", "lines": ["By holy God, by sun and moon on high,", "By crown and throne that rule beneath the sky,"]}, {"id": "E4.1.56", "lines": ["By Azargashasp’s fire, I swear that he", "Shall find no joy upon his throne through me."]}, {"id": "E4.1.57", "lines": ["If not, I forfeit all my father’s fame,", "And stand unworthy of great Qobad’s name."]}, {"id": "E4.1.58", "lines": ["Let no man speak my name in any hall", "If I do not make Roman honor fall."]}, {"id": "E4.1.59", "lines": ["I shall set his thriving provinces aflame,", "And leave their fields a ruin to his shame."]}, {"id": "E4.1.60", "lines": ["He shall fill ox-skins full with gems and gold,", "And yield the treasures Rum has long controlled."]}, {"id": "E4.1.61", "lines": ["My sword-point shall not rest within its sheath,", "Until Rum’s pride lies humbled underneath."]}, {"id": "E4.1.62", "lines": ["He boasts, ‘I am the Caesar!’ Must I stand", "Among the chiefs who wait on his command?”"]}, {"id": "E4.1.63", "lines": ["He ordered horns and Indian bells to sound;", "On elephants the kousts shook all the ground."]}, {"id": "E4.1.64", "lines": ["The dust rose dark, the daylight seemed to wane;", "From Madain marched the troops across the plain."]}, {"id": "E4.1.65", "lines": ["So vast their ranks, the green sea seemed to quail,", "While flags and karnays stirred along the trail."]}, {"id": "E4.1.66", "lines": ["The horsemen rode in golden boots arrayed;", "Their streaming banners filled the sky with shade."]}, {"id": "E4.1.67", "lines": ["The stars themselves seemed wholly drowned from sight,", "And turning heaven reeled beneath their might."]}, {"id": "E4.2.1", "lines": ["When Caesar heard the Shah had left Iran,", "And wrath had stirred great Anooshirvan,"]}, {"id": "E4.2.2", "lines": ["The Shah from Amuriyah to Halab came;", "The world grew loud with war’s resounding flame."]}, {"id": "E4.2.3", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand horsemen took the field,", "And Halab’s walls were ringed by spear and shield."]}, {"id": "E4.2.4", "lines": ["From every side the troops came on for strife,", "And war rose up with steel and hungry knife."]}, {"id": "E4.2.5", "lines": ["The Roman chiefs set engines on each wall,", "Prepared to fight and guard against its fall."]}, {"id": "E4.2.6", "lines": ["They cleared Sakila’s fortress for the fight,", "And launched their raids from there with all their might."]}, {"id": "E4.2.7", "lines": ["Halab became a sea of blood and cries,", "Where Roman hope fell dark before their eyes."]}, {"id": "E4.2.8", "lines": ["Batarun’s battered legions reeled in dread;", "And countless Romans lay among the dead."]}, {"id": "E4.2.9", "lines": ["Within two weeks, the troops before their king", "Brought thirty thousand captives from the ring."]}, {"id": "E4.2.10", "lines": ["The Romans dug a trench to block the way,", "And flooded it to keep the Shah at bay."]}, {"id": "E4.2.11", "lines": ["They barred the Shah’s advance with ditch and flood;", "His army halted there in steel and blood."]}, {"id": "E4.2.12", "lines": ["A long time passed with neither side relieved;", "The troops required more funds than they received."]}, {"id": "E4.2.13", "lines": ["He called his battle-captains to his side,", "And weighed the field’s condition far and wide."]}, {"id": "E4.2.14", "lines": ["He said, “This brings us toil and loss; no way", "Across the flooded trench appears today."]}, {"id": "E4.2.15", "lines": ["The troops need coin, food, steeds, and jowshans too,", "And Roman helms, if we would see this through.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.16", "lines": ["The commissaries, scribes, and treasurers went", "To count the Shah’s supply and what was spent."]}, {"id": "E4.2.17", "lines": ["They found three hundred thousand dirhams more", "Were needed than remained within the store."]}, {"id": "E4.2.18", "lines": ["A Mobad came like dust before the throne,", "And told the Shah what reckoning had shown."]}, {"id": "E4.2.19", "lines": ["The Shah’s face darkened, and he bade draw near", "His High Mobad, whose judgment he held dear:"]}, {"id": "E4.2.20", "lines": ["“If all our treasury lies drained and bare,", "What use are throne and crown that I must wear?"]}, {"id": "E4.2.21", "lines": ["Go call the camel-drivers; let them goad", "Bactrian camels down the desert road."]}, {"id": "E4.2.22", "lines": ["From Mazandaran’s treasure-house convey", "A hundred loads of coin without delay.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.23", "lines": ["The High Mobad, in wisdom deeply grown,", "Replied, “O loving Shah, by justice known,"]}, {"id": "E4.2.24", "lines": ["Our treasure lies in Iran; it comes late,", "And troops stand needy; war will never wait."]}, {"id": "E4.2.25", "lines": ["In towns nearby are men with wealth to lend;", "One hundredth meets the sums we need to spend."]}, {"id": "E4.2.26", "lines": ["Seek loans from nobles and from merchants near;", "Their ready aid will soon remove our fear.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.27", "lines": ["The Shah agreed with what the wise man said,", "And by that counsel let the search be led;"]}, {"id": "E4.2.28", "lines": ["The priest then chose an envoy rich in grace,", "Wise-hearted, cheerful, fair in speech and face."]}, {"id": "E4.2.29", "lines": ["He said, “Take three swift horses for the road,", "And find a man whose wealth can bear this load."]}, {"id": "E4.2.30", "lines": ["Choose from the merchants or the nobles one", "Whose honored name is known beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "E4.2.31", "lines": ["Request a loan of money for the force;", "The Shah will pay it back in due course.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.32", "lines": ["That fair-tongued envoy, young but ripe in thought,", "Went to a neighboring town for what he sought."]}, {"id": "E4.2.33", "lines": ["He asked a loan for matters of the crown;", "The wealthy gathered, men of high renown."]}, {"id": "E4.2.34", "lines": ["A certain shoemaker who made and sold", "Shoes listened closely to the tale he told."]}, {"id": "E4.2.35", "lines": ["He asked, “How much?” The envoy answered then,", "“O man of wealth and wisdom among men,"]}, {"id": "E4.2.36", "lines": ["Three hundred thousand silver coins we need,", "To pay the troops and buy the battle-steed.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.37", "lines": ["The shoemaker said, “Gladly shall I lend;", "The treasurer may thank me in the end.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.38", "lines": ["He brought the scales and weights and weighed the whole;", "It needed no receipt, no written scroll."]}, {"id": "E4.2.39", "lines": ["Then said the shoemaker: “Commend my plea", "Before the High Mobad, that I may see"]}, {"id": "E4.2.40", "lines": ["My dearest wish fulfilled, and from his grace", "A blessing fall upon my dwelling-place."]}, {"id": "E4.2.41", "lines": ["I have a son who stands in need of lore;", "His schooling is the favor I implore."]}, {"id": "E4.2.42", "lines": ["Perhaps the monarch of the world may show", "A private favor, letting kindness flow."]}, {"id": "E4.2.43", "lines": ["Let me place my boy where learned sages teach,", "That wisdom’s art may come within his reach."]}, {"id": "E4.2.44", "lines": ["He has the wealth and years to learn their art,", "And gain the knowledge they can all impart.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.45", "lines": ["The messenger replied, “With joy I will;", "Your generous loan has answered all our ill.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.46", "lines": ["The High Mobad approached the royal seat;", "The Shah rejoiced to hear the loan complete."]}, {"id": "E4.2.47", "lines": ["He said, “Thanks be to God upon His throne,", "Whose grace throughout my life I long have known."]}, {"id": "E4.2.48", "lines": ["Within our realm, a shoemaker can show", "Such wealth and let his bounty freely flow."]}, {"id": "E4.2.49", "lines": ["May he who owns such silver never fear", "The weight of royal power drawing near."]}, {"id": "E4.2.50", "lines": ["Discover what desire lies in his heart,", "So this goodwill from him may not depart."]}, {"id": "E4.2.51", "lines": ["A hundred thousand silver coins bestow", "Beyond his loan, that he our thanks may know."]}, {"id": "E4.2.52", "lines": ["May all our children prosper, rich and great,", "And rise to crowns and thrones of royal state."]}, {"id": "E4.2.53", "lines": ["May no ill-wisher see the throne decline;", "Through all the years may royal glory shine.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.54", "lines": ["Then spoke the High Mobad: “O monarch, hear:", "This shoemaker has made a plea sincere."]}, {"id": "E4.2.55", "lines": ["He said, ‘May wisdom guide the monarch’s mind;", "I have one son, mature and well-inclined."]}, {"id": "E4.2.56", "lines": ["He seeks a teacher’s hand and learned art,", "That skill may settle firmly in his heart."]}, {"id": "E4.2.57", "lines": ["If you will help him gain a scribe’s career,", "I shall pray for you through each coming year."]}, {"id": "E4.2.58", "lines": ["May this throne-worthy monarch ever live,", "And may God crown the justice he can give.’”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.59", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “What Div has clouded sight,", "And led your judgment from the path of right?"]}, {"id": "E4.2.60", "lines": ["Go, turn the camels back; I will not hold", "A claim upon his silver or his gold."]}, {"id": "E4.2.61", "lines": ["If merchants’ sons become both skilled and wise,", "And through the scribe’s profession come to rise,"]}, {"id": "E4.2.62", "lines": ["When my son sits upon the throne one day,", "He will need a scribe to guide his way."]}, {"id": "E4.2.63", "lines": ["Must he then trust a shoemaker’s trained son,", "His eyes and ears, with all that must be done?"]}, {"id": "E4.2.64", "lines": ["Then wise men born of noble stock will sigh,", "And watch their hopes of honored service die."]}, {"id": "E4.2.65", "lines": ["Discerning men will bow to him in shame,", "Men’s curses, when I die, will stain my name."]}, {"id": "E4.2.66", "lines": ["We will not take the money he supplied;", "Seek coin elsewhere, and put your grief aside."]}, {"id": "E4.2.67", "lines": ["Send back the camels with the silver store,", "And seek out shoemakers for loans no more.”"]}, {"id": "E4.2.68", "lines": ["The envoy brought the silver back that day,", "And left the shoemaker in deep dismay."]}, {"id": "E4.3.1", "lines": ["Night fell; a bell rang from the royal tent,", "While scouts around the sleeping army went."]}, {"id": "E4.3.2", "lines": ["At dawn the sun revealed its shining crown,", "And spread white robes on field and sleeping town."]}, {"id": "E4.3.3", "lines": ["The trench-side scouts returned with urgent speed,", "And reached the Shah to tell him of the deed."]}, {"id": "E4.3.4", "lines": ["They said, “From Caesar envoys now appear,", "To sue in grief for pardon, filled with fear.”"]}, {"id": "E4.3.5", "lines": ["The envoys entered, prayers upon each tongue,", "And blessings for Iran’s great monarch sung."]}, {"id": "E4.3.6", "lines": ["The Roman saw his crown and royal head,", "And sighed a frozen sigh of inward dread."]}, {"id": "E4.3.7", "lines": ["He thought, “Behold a Shah of towering state,", "With manhood, kingship, court, and fortune great.”"]}, {"id": "E4.3.8", "lines": ["Two score philosophers from Rum drew near,", "With fluent tongues, their hearts in gloom severe."]}, {"id": "E4.3.9", "lines": ["Each laid before the king a weighty hoard,", "Full thirty thousand gold coins were outpoured."]}, {"id": "E4.3.10", "lines": ["His splendor made the Roman envoys quake;", "Each twisted in his anguish like a snake."]}, {"id": "E4.3.11", "lines": ["The king of kings received them with due grace,", "And seated each according to his place."]}, {"id": "E4.3.12", "lines": ["Their spokesman then addressed the Shah and said:", "“O king, the elder Caesar now is dead;"]}, {"id": "E4.3.13", "lines": ["This tender grandson sits upon the throne,", "To whom the world’s affairs are yet unknown."]}, {"id": "E4.3.14", "lines": ["We all are tributaries under you,", "Your sheltered servants, faithful, bound, and true."]}, {"id": "E4.3.15", "lines": ["For you, Iran and Rum are both the same;", "Why split one household with a double name?"]}, {"id": "E4.3.16", "lines": ["The king of kings holds wisdom in his hand,", "And Caesar stands upright at his command."]}, {"id": "E4.3.17", "lines": ["The Khan of Chin, the king of Hind, both owe", "Their thrones and crowns to favors you bestow."]}, {"id": "E4.3.18", "lines": ["If one raw youth has rashly spoken ill,", "New-fledged in wisdom, lacking judgment still,"]}, {"id": "E4.3.19", "lines": ["Let heaven’s crowned king turn his wrath away;", "Let no rash words make vengeance rule the day."]}, {"id": "E4.3.20", "lines": ["We will pay tribute fixed on Rum of old,", "And keep the pact in loyalty and gold.”"]}, {"id": "E4.3.21", "lines": ["The Shah smiled gently at the words they spoke,", "And answered, turning to the Roman folk:"]}, {"id": "E4.3.22", "lines": ["“The boy is noble, yet his judgment small;", "What sense has guided him in this at all?"]}, {"id": "E4.3.23", "lines": ["What Caesar? What is Batarun’s renown,", "Now time has seized and roughly cast him down?"]}, {"id": "E4.3.24", "lines": ["The wise from Iskandar’s bloodline have won", "High place and triumph underneath the sun."]}, {"id": "E4.3.25", "lines": ["Yet if one spurns our counsel and command,", "And casts alliance from his reckless hand,"]}, {"id": "E4.3.26", "lines": ["We shall raise dust from all his thriving lands,", "Nor fear the wealth or legions he commands.”"]}, {"id": "E4.3.27", "lines": ["The envoys kissed the ground with humble prayer,", "As courtiers do before the royal chair."]}, {"id": "E4.3.28", "lines": ["“Conquering Shah, supreme in might and fame,", "Let anger pass; do not prolong its flame."]}, {"id": "E4.3.29", "lines": ["We are the dust beneath your feet, and stand", "As guardians of the treasure you command."]}, {"id": "E4.3.30", "lines": ["If you receive us into favor now,", "Misfortune leaves our hearts and clears our brow."]}, {"id": "E4.3.31", "lines": ["The toils the king of kings has borne in fight", "Are no small matter in the Romans’ sight."]}, {"id": "E4.3.32", "lines": ["To meet that cost, ten ox-hide sacks of gold", "We offer from the wealth our coffers hold."]}, {"id": "E4.3.33", "lines": ["Ask less or more, as you see fit to do;", "Accept this humble gift we bring to you.”"]}, {"id": "E4.3.34", "lines": ["“As for this treasure,” Anooshirvan replied,", "“My minister shall weigh and then decide.”"]}, {"id": "E4.3.35", "lines": ["The Romans sought the High Mobad in fear,", "And poured their loud laments into his ear."]}, {"id": "E4.3.36", "lines": ["They pleaded fully, stating Caesar’s aim,", "And spoke of Rum’s desire to end its shame."]}, {"id": "E4.3.37", "lines": ["They told of ox-hides filled with Roman gold,", "And all the terms by which the peace might hold."]}, {"id": "E4.3.38", "lines": ["The Mobad asked, “What brocade will you send", "Along with all the gold you mean to spend?"]}, {"id": "E4.3.39", "lines": ["Along with all this gold, you must provide", "A thousand pieces, gold-worked, finely dyed;"]}, {"id": "E4.3.40", "lines": ["A thousand Roman youths of noble grace,", "To serve as hostages before his face.”"]}, {"id": "E4.3.41", "lines": ["The Romans gave consent to that demand,", "Then bowed again before the Shah’s command."]}, {"id": "E4.3.42", "lines": ["The Shah remained a while upon that ground;", "Both king and troops at last their comfort found."]}, {"id": "E4.3.43", "lines": ["He chose a soldier skilled in keeping count,", "Who could record and judge each due amount."]}, {"id": "E4.3.44", "lines": ["He gave him troops to gather what was due,", "And bring the Roman tribute safely through."]}, {"id": "E4.3.45", "lines": ["The Shah turned homeward, to Tisfoon now bound,", "With troops ahead, behind, and all around."]}, {"id": "E4.3.46", "lines": ["All moved well furnished on the shining road,", "With silver, gold, and many a precious load."]}, {"id": "E4.3.47", "lines": ["Their silver bridles glittered on the way;", "Their golden girdles flashed in light of day."]}, {"id": "E4.3.48", "lines": ["The very air seemed woven silk made bright,", "With chiefs’ high banners streaming in the light."]}, {"id": "E4.3.49", "lines": ["The hills and plains seemed golden to the eye;", "Their jeweled belts shone like the stars on high."]}, {"id": "E4.3.50", "lines": ["When Anooshirvan neared the city wall,", "A multitude came out to greet his call."]}, {"id": "E4.3.51", "lines": ["They all dismounted, glad to see his face,", "And stood with open hearts before his grace."]}, {"id": "E4.3.52", "lines": ["All those who had attended on their lord", "Went toward the palace gate with one accord."]}, {"id": "E4.3.53", "lines": ["The mighty chiefs called blessings on his name,", "The just and watchful Shah of deathless fame."]}, {"id": "E4.3.54", "lines": ["The greatest men brought jewels as their gift;", "The Shah’s return made every spirit lift."]}, {"id": "E4.3.55", "lines": ["He sat in state and showed the chiefs his grace,", "And honored each according to his place."]}, {"id": "E4.3.56", "lines": ["The chiefs returned to homes they called their own,", "Their names throughout the world more widely known."]}, {"id": "E4.4.1", "lines": ["A learned dehqan spoke of fortune’s wheel,", "And all the changes that the years reveal."]}, {"id": "E4.4.2", "lines": ["At times we feast; at times we grieve and weep;", "At last, beneath dark earth, we all must sleep."]}, {"id": "E4.4.3", "lines": ["Do not rejoice in evil you have done;", "Its pain will find you when your course is run."]}, {"id": "E4.4.4", "lines": ["Our words and deeds remain when we depart,", "A lasting record of the hand and heart."]}, {"id": "E4.4.5", "lines": ["I give these royal tales new life in rhyme,", "And fear that death may leave me short of time."]}, {"id": "E4.4.6", "lines": ["Now hear what ardent wisdom has disclosed", "Of plans the aging monarch’s heart composed."]}, {"id": "E4.4.7", "lines": ["The monarch, in his seventy-fourth year,", "Was seized by thoughts of death and endings near."]}, {"id": "E4.4.8", "lines": ["He sought a master fit to guard the realm,", "A just king’s hand to hold the royal helm."]}, {"id": "E4.4.9", "lines": ["He wished for one whose gifts the poor would bless,", "Whose kindly heart would ease their sore distress."]}, {"id": "E4.4.10", "lines": ["Four sons he had, all noble in their birth,", "All great and shrewd among the men of earth."]}, {"id": "E4.4.11", "lines": ["They bore a kingly air and valor’s flame,", "With learning, self-command, and noble fame."]}, {"id": "E4.4.12", "lines": ["Young, generous, and eager still to learn,", "Their minds to knowledge readily would turn."]}, {"id": "E4.4.13", "lines": ["The foremost, Hormizd, stood without a peer,", "A prince of worth, discerning, held most dear."]}, {"id": "E4.4.14", "lines": ["He was astute, discerning, fair in face,", "And well disposed toward the noble race."]}, {"id": "E4.4.15", "lines": ["The Shah sent trusted watchers, out of sight,", "To note the prince’s conduct, wrong or right."]}, {"id": "E4.4.16", "lines": ["They marked in secret all he chose to say,", "And watched his conduct on the royal way."]}, {"id": "E4.4.17", "lines": ["They were to tell the Shah both good and ill,", "Each act that showed the temper of his will."]}, {"id": "E4.4.18", "lines": ["To Bozorgmehr he said, “Within my heart", "I hold a plan that I would now impart."]}, {"id": "E4.4.19", "lines": ["When I passed seventy, my musky hair", "Took on the camphor hue that age must wear."]}, {"id": "E4.4.20", "lines": ["And when I leave this passing house behind,", "The world will need a master wise and kind."]}, {"id": "E4.4.21", "lines": ["He must give freely to the poor in need,", "To kin and strangers, generous in deed."]}, {"id": "E4.4.22", "lines": ["He must be generous, free from treasure’s snare,", "Nor bind his heart to worldly wealth and care."]}, {"id": "E4.4.23", "lines": ["His words must serve the cause of justice well,", "With wisdom and a heart where good thoughts dwell."]}, {"id": "E4.4.24", "lines": ["I thank God that my sons are wise and learned,", "With hearts to worship Him devoutly turned."]}, {"id": "E4.4.25", "lines": ["Yet none is dearer in my heart or eyes", "Than Hormizd, skilled in counsel, firm and wise."]}, {"id": "E4.4.26", "lines": ["I find no fault in all his generous ways,", "Nor in the upright conduct of his days."]}, {"id": "E4.4.27", "lines": ["Summon the Mobadan, the learned and true,", "And let them test his learning through and through.”"]}, {"id": "E4.5.1", "lines": ["The learned Mobadan convened as one,", "With officers who served the monarch’s son."]}, {"id": "E4.5.2", "lines": ["They called Hormizd, the royal prince, inside,", "And set him by the chiefs in princely pride."]}, {"id": "E4.5.3", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr began: “O prince of grace,", "Whose fortune shines in every glance and face,"]}, {"id": "E4.5.4", "lines": ["What knowledge brightens wisdom and the soul,", "And makes the body fruitful, sound, and whole?”"]}, {"id": "E4.5.5", "lines": ["Hormizd replied, “Best knowledge rules the rest;", "The men of understanding are most blessed."]}, {"id": "E4.5.6", "lines": ["In knowledge lies the safety men require;", "It guards the heart from Ahriman’s desire."]}, {"id": "E4.5.7", "lines": ["Next, patience and forgiveness bring release,", "And clothe the troubled heart in robes of peace."]}, {"id": "E4.5.8", "lines": ["Be humble, just, and patient; seek to grow", "In faith and virtue through the things you know.”"]}, {"id": "E4.5.9", "lines": ["The sage then asked, “What shows true virtue best,", "And raises man to rank above the rest?”"]}, {"id": "E4.5.10", "lines": ["Hormizd replied, “First, modesty and shame", "That keep a man from deeds deserving blame."]}, {"id": "E4.5.11", "lines": ["Next, strive to grieve as few hearts as one can;", "Third, show your kindness to the upright man"]}, {"id": "E4.5.12", "lines": ["Who deals with you in justice; thus you may", "Find peace within the life you lead each day.”"]}, {"id": "E4.5.13", "lines": ["The pure prince’s face drew Bozorgmehr’s eyes;", "He spoke more gravely, seeking full replies:"]}, {"id": "E4.5.14", "lines": ["“Now I will ask you questions grave and deep;", "Count each upon your hand, and each one keep."]}, {"id": "E4.5.15", "lines": ["Remember all I ask, and then reply", "In that same order, clear to every eye."]}, {"id": "E4.5.16", "lines": ["Bring justice and high-mindedness to bear;", "If you are heedful, heaven’s gate stands fair."]}, {"id": "E4.5.17", "lines": ["I question broadly; answer all I ask;", "May God on high instruct you in the task."]}, {"id": "E4.5.18", "lines": ["May wit be bright, and Fortune be your mate;", "Now answer fairly, worthy of your state."]}, {"id": "E4.5.19", "lines": ["The wise man is discerned by his replies;", "His will and measure show before men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "E4.5.20", "lines": ["Inquiry is the lock, response the key;", "The answer shows what good and ill may be."]}, {"id": "E4.5.21", "lines": ["Who is the child dear in his father’s sight,", "Well-born in conduct, free of blame and blight?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.22", "lines": ["What man deserves compassion from the heart,", "So grief at his misfortune makes tears start?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.23", "lines": ["What man repents the good that he has done,", "And feels regret within his heart begun?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.24", "lines": ["Who is the man whom all the wise should blame,", "When every deed is weighed against his name?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.25", "lines": ["Who should escape the land in which he dwells,", "And flee the tyrant whose oppression swells?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.26", "lines": ["What gives us happiness within this life?", "What do we most recall beyond our strife?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.27", "lines": ["What time is fit for praise? What profits most?", "Who is the dearest friend a heart can boast?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.28", "lines": ["Whose voice becomes a garden to the heart?", "What friend can make our inward grief depart?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.29", "lines": ["Who has the greatest store of friends on earth,", "Whose friendship gladdens others with its worth?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.30", "lines": ["Who has the greatest multitude of foes,", "Whose malice troubles all the peace he knows?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.31", "lines": ["What thing is most injurious when done,", "And gives good cause for tears beneath the sun?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.32", "lines": ["Of all the things that mortals cherish here,", "What proves most fickle, false, and insincere?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.33", "lines": ["Who is the tyrant, shameless in his will,", "The most irreverent and loveless still?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.34", "lines": ["Whose words bring harm that others must endure,", "While he himself sits sheltered and secure?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.35", "lines": ["What fault brings shame and rue that hold him fast,", "And makes a man repent his language past?”"]}, {"id": "E4.5.36", "lines": ["All day until the night rose on the hills,", "The sage’s questions flowed in ordered rills."]}, {"id": "E4.5.37", "lines": ["When darkness brought the hour of lamps and light,", "The chiefs sat rapt in wonder at the sight."]}, {"id": "E4.5.38", "lines": ["And when the Shah grew weary of the strain,", "The sage grew still; the prince made answer plain."]}, {"id": "E4.5.39", "lines": ["Great Hormizd rose and praised the Shah, and said,", "“May royal Fortune ever crown your head."]}, {"id": "E4.5.40", "lines": ["Long may you rule, your throne and glory shown;", "May crown and ivory seat be still your own."]}, {"id": "E4.5.41", "lines": ["May none behold the throne or royal state", "Devoid of you, bright master over fate."]}, {"id": "E4.5.42", "lines": ["May all the world be dust before your feet;", "May heaven cure whatever ills you meet."]}, {"id": "E4.5.43", "lines": ["Now I will answer what the sage has sought,", "And set before you all my ordered thought."]}, {"id": "E4.5.44", "lines": ["He first inquired about the son most dear;", "Concerning sons, my answer now is clear."]}, {"id": "E4.5.45", "lines": ["A son makes glad his father’s heart and breast,", "And frees that inward house from grief’s unrest,"]}, {"id": "E4.5.46", "lines": ["If love for father guides his heart to good,", "And he acts justly, as a true son should."]}, {"id": "E4.5.47", "lines": ["Next, who deserves our pity and our care,", "Whose plight is such that we his sorrow share?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.48", "lines": ["It is the noble man whom fate has placed", "Beneath a base-born lord, his worth debased."]}, {"id": "E4.5.49", "lines": ["His lot deserves our pity and our grief,", "For serving base men brings him no relief."]}, {"id": "E4.5.50", "lines": ["Who helps the base and thankless comes to find", "Regret for being generous and kind."]}, {"id": "E4.5.51", "lines": ["One who forgets the good once done to him", "Would make the lamp of wisdom fade and dim."]}, {"id": "E4.5.52", "lines": ["Then came the question: who should leave the land", "And seek a home beyond a tyrant’s hand?"]}, {"id": "E4.5.53", "lines": ["The wise man has the liberty to go", "From lands where unjust kings make sorrow grow."]}, {"id": "E4.5.54", "lines": ["Escape is needful from an unjust king;", "He brings the world its Doomsday and its sting."]}, {"id": "E4.5.55", "lines": ["The sage asked next: ‘In what does joy arise?’", "A faithful friend whose loyalty we prize."]}, {"id": "E4.5.56", "lines": ["He asked: ‘What memory never fades away?’", "A good deed done to brighten someone’s day;"]}, {"id": "E4.5.57", "lines": ["When breath departs, good actions still remain,", "Untouched by death, oblivion, and pain."]}, {"id": "E4.5.58", "lines": ["He asked, ‘When does the time deserve our praise?’", "When fewer ill-wishers beset our days."]}, {"id": "E4.5.59", "lines": ["And as for friends, their aid is good to gain;", "The wealthy shield us when our fortunes wane."]}, {"id": "E4.5.60", "lines": ["If they are poor, then share their toil and need;", "True friendship proves itself in word and deed."]}, {"id": "E4.5.61", "lines": ["The more his modesty and bounty grow,", "The more delight his friends in him will know."]}, {"id": "E4.5.62", "lines": ["The sage next asked, ‘Who gathers foes that keep", "His heart forever vexed and rob his sleep?’"]}, {"id": "E4.5.63", "lines": ["The man whose tongue speaks evil without end", "Will make an enemy of every friend."]}, {"id": "E4.5.64", "lines": ["He asked what deed most injures heart and mind,", "And leaves repentant tears and grief behind."]}, {"id": "E4.5.65", "lines": ["When passion rules the heart, it soon is past,", "But afterward repentance rises fast."]}, {"id": "E4.5.66", "lines": ["So do not touch the blossom of desire;", "Its scented bloom becomes remorseful fire."]}, {"id": "E4.5.67", "lines": ["He asked, ‘What bond is fickle from the start,", "And proves untrue to those who give their heart?’"]}, {"id": "E4.5.68", "lines": ["It is the friendship of a foolish man,", "Of evil nature, shifting plan to plan."]}, {"id": "E4.5.69", "lines": ["He asked, ‘Who is the shameless tyrant still,", "Whose nature lies beyond all cure or skill?’"]}, {"id": "E4.5.70", "lines": ["The worst tyrant is he whose shameless head", "Casts his own guilt on blameless men instead;"]}, {"id": "E4.5.71", "lines": ["He strikes the innocent to clear his name,", "And crowns the righteous with his private shame."]}, {"id": "E4.5.72", "lines": ["He asked whose words bring ruin and distress,", "Yet leave the speaker free from all duress."]}, {"id": "E4.5.73", "lines": ["The tale-bearer, deceitful and unjust,", "Fills kings with grief, and slowly saps their trust."]}, {"id": "E4.5.74", "lines": ["He asked what fault brings shame and bitter rue,", "And makes a man repent his boasting too."]}, {"id": "E4.5.75", "lines": ["It is the foolish talker, proud and vain,", "Who boasts before the crowd of wit and gain."]}, {"id": "E4.5.76", "lines": ["But when alone and private, he repents", "The vaunting words his empty pride invents."]}, {"id": "E4.5.77", "lines": ["Yet when he speaks again, his boasts revive,", "And all his vain pretensions come alive."]}, {"id": "E4.5.78", "lines": ["The master and the novice undergo", "A test that lets their true attainments show."]}, {"id": "E4.5.79", "lines": ["These were the questions; these are my replies;", "May blessings crown the Shah beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "E4.5.80", "lines": ["May every tongue speak only by his will,", "And may his noble heart be gladder still.”"]}, {"id": "E4.5.81", "lines": ["The king of kings was lost in wondering thought;", "All gathered there rejoiced at what was taught."]}, {"id": "E4.5.82", "lines": ["The monarch’s heart was loosened from its care,", "And gladness filled the courtiers everywhere."]}, {"id": "E4.5.83", "lines": ["By royal order, scribes then wrote it down:", "To Hormizd passed the right to throne and crown."]}, {"id": "E4.5.84", "lines": ["The Chinese paper dried beneath the breeze;", "They sealed the writing with its firm decrees."]}, {"id": "E4.5.85", "lines": ["The Shah entrusted it to one most wise,", "A watchful Mobad, versed in sage replies."]}, {"id": "E4.5.86", "lines": ["He took the pledge of Shah Anooshirvan,", "And blessed his son, the heir to all Iran."]}, {"id": "E4.6.1", "lines": ["The world is faithless, filled with grief and pain;", "No crown can grant its wearer lasting reign."]}, {"id": "E4.6.2", "lines": ["O aged man, repent before your end;", "Let wisdom guide you, let your spirit mend."]}, {"id": "E4.6.3", "lines": ["Long ages pass when earthly life is done;", "Where goes the soul when dust and flesh are one?"]}, {"id": "E4.6.4", "lines": ["What did the aged chronicler declare", "Of Anooshirvan’s last counsel and his care?"]}, {"id": "E4.6.5", "lines": ["When Hormizd’s answers had been fully heard,", "The High Mobad arose and spoke a word."]}, {"id": "E4.6.6", "lines": ["The counselors and scribes, at his command,", "Wrote down on silk the counsel for his land."]}, {"id": "E4.6.7", "lines": ["To young Hormizd the royal letter ran,", "With praise of God, the Judge of every man."]}, {"id": "E4.6.8", "lines": ["“Receive this counsel from Qobad’s own son;", "Write on your heart the words that now are spun."]}, {"id": "E4.6.9", "lines": ["Perhaps through these my living words may stay:", "This faithless world must fade and pass away."]}, {"id": "E4.6.10", "lines": ["It teems with toil and trouble, grief and woe;", "Its smiling face conceals the pain below."]}, {"id": "E4.6.11", "lines": ["When you rejoice in it, in gladness drowned,", "Know happiness has no abiding ground."]}, {"id": "E4.6.12", "lines": ["You too must leave this world of dust and pain;", "No throne can break the grave’s appointed chain."]}, {"id": "E4.6.13", "lines": ["As I resign the world to you by right,", "You must resign it too when comes your night."]}, {"id": "E4.6.14", "lines": ["By day and through the night’s deepening gloom,", "My thoughts dwell on the silence of the tomb."]}, {"id": "E4.6.15", "lines": ["I seek a head fit for the royal crown,", "A ruler fit for every field and town."]}, {"id": "E4.6.16", "lines": ["Four sons we have, the luster of our heart,", "Wise, just, and generous in every part."]}, {"id": "E4.6.17", "lines": ["Of these I make my choice, and choose the one", "Who leads in years and wisdom: you, my son."]}, {"id": "E4.6.18", "lines": ["You are a wise man, ornament of state,", "Fit for the crown and for imperial fate."]}, {"id": "E4.6.19", "lines": ["Qobad, at eighty, chose me for the throne,", "And named me heir to all that was his own."]}, {"id": "E4.6.20", "lines": ["At seventy-four, I make my wishes plain:", "I choose you now to take the crown and reign."]}, {"id": "E4.6.21", "lines": ["I seek but peace, and hope that when I die,", "A blessing follows where my bones shall lie."]}, {"id": "E4.6.22", "lines": ["I hope almighty God will make you glad,", "And grant you fortune greater than you had."]}, {"id": "E4.6.23", "lines": ["If by your justice folk are kept secure,", "Your own repose will stand as firm and sure."]}, {"id": "E4.6.24", "lines": ["Through righteous dealing you will rest in peace,", "And by good works your heavenly joys increase."]}, {"id": "E4.6.25", "lines": ["For blessed is the man whose seed is good,", "And whose right labor ripens as it should."]}, {"id": "E4.6.26", "lines": ["Be patient; let restraint direct your ways;", "A patient king is worthy of our praise."]}, {"id": "E4.6.27", "lines": ["The prudent Shah, instructed, self-restrained,", "Will keep the honor that his wisdom gained."]}, {"id": "E4.6.28", "lines": ["Do not devise deceit or lies at all,", "Or Fortune’s face will darken toward your fall."]}, {"id": "E4.6.29", "lines": ["Keep haste far from your heart and from your brain;", "For wisdom flees when haste begins to reign."]}, {"id": "E4.6.30", "lines": ["Incline toward good in every turn of woe;", "Hear sages’ counsel whether high or low."]}, {"id": "E4.6.31", "lines": ["Let evil never lead your heart astray;", "It bears a bitter harvest in its day."]}, {"id": "E4.6.32", "lines": ["Let food and raiment both be pure and clean;", "Keep all your father’s counsel fresh and green."]}, {"id": "E4.6.33", "lines": ["Make God your refuge; turn your heart to Him,", "And seek His guidance when your star grows dim."]}, {"id": "E4.6.34", "lines": ["Rule justly, let the realm grow rich and great;", "Wealth fills your coffers, joy attends your state."]}, {"id": "E4.6.35", "lines": ["Reward men promptly when their deeds are right;", "Let not good toil grow old before your sight."]}, {"id": "E4.6.36", "lines": ["Make glad the men of worth and draw them near;", "And show the ill-disposed a face severe."]}, {"id": "E4.6.37", "lines": ["In all affairs take counsel with the wise;", "Let not the cares of kingship dim your eyes."]}, {"id": "E4.6.38", "lines": ["When sages have free access to your throne,", "Troops, treasure, crown, and Fortune stay your own."]}, {"id": "E4.6.39", "lines": ["Let no friend suffer poverty or need;", "Relieve his hardship through a generous deed."]}, {"id": "E4.6.40", "lines": ["Let potentates and nobles share your food,", "But trust no office to the unjust brood."]}, {"id": "E4.6.41", "lines": ["Give ear and heart to mendicants in woe,", "And make their sorrows yours, and let it show."]}, {"id": "E4.6.42", "lines": ["The king who gives his people justice due", "Will share the joy his righteous deeds renew."]}, {"id": "E4.6.43", "lines": ["Do not withhold your wealth from men of worth,", "But show the virtuous bounty on the earth."]}, {"id": "E4.6.44", "lines": ["Yet if your enemy becomes your friend,", "Do not on salty soil your seed expend."]}, {"id": "E4.6.45", "lines": ["If you will heed the counsel I bestow,", "Your crown will flourish and your honor grow."]}, {"id": "E4.6.46", "lines": ["May He who grants good wishes favor you;", "May wisdom crown your throne in all you do."]}, {"id": "E4.6.47", "lines": ["May God preserve my counsel in your ear,", "Though I am hidden and no longer near."]}, {"id": "E4.6.48", "lines": ["May head and heart be flourishing and bright,", "Your person safe from foes and all their spite."]}, {"id": "E4.6.49", "lines": ["May wisdom be your watchman, never sleeping,", "And righteousness hold all your ways in keeping."]}, {"id": "E4.6.50", "lines": ["When I depart this wide and turning sphere,", "Perform the rites that I have ordered here."]}, {"id": "E4.6.51", "lines": ["A noble palace must be raised alone,", "Far from all roads and every dwelling known."]}, {"id": "E4.6.52", "lines": ["Where no swift-winged vulture wheels on high,", "Raise it toward the turning, vaulted sky."]}, {"id": "E4.6.53", "lines": ["Let it rise high, some ten kamands in span,", "And paint my court within, as best you can."]}, {"id": "E4.6.54", "lines": ["Show all the chiefs and warriors of renown;", "Preserve the memory of my court and crown."]}, {"id": "E4.6.55", "lines": ["Let tapestries of every kind hang fair,", "With color, scent, and perfume in the air."]}, {"id": "E4.6.56", "lines": ["Embalm my corpse with camphor, as is due,", "And set a crown of musk and amber too."]}, {"id": "E4.6.57", "lines": ["Bring five fine lengths of rich brocade, all new;", "Let none be worn before it comes to you."]}, {"id": "E4.6.58", "lines": ["Dress me in Kayanian royal mode,", "As Sasanian Shahs observed that code."]}, {"id": "E4.6.59", "lines": ["Prepare an ivory throne to bear my weight;", "Suspend the crown above in royal state."]}, {"id": "E4.6.60", "lines": ["Bring all my golden vessels to the hall,", "Both cups and censers; there arrange them all."]}, {"id": "E4.6.61", "lines": ["Set twenty filled with rosewater and wine,", "And saffron with its fragrance rich and fine."]}, {"id": "E4.6.62", "lines": ["Two hundred more with musk and camphor fill,", "And ambergris, according to my will."]}, {"id": "E4.6.63", "lines": ["Arrange them left and right in ordered rows;", "No more, no less, than this command bestows."]}, {"id": "E4.6.64", "lines": ["Anoint my head with camphor, clean and sweet,", "And bathe with rosewater from head to feet;"]}, {"id": "E4.6.65", "lines": ["Let musk and precious ambergris be spread,", "To guard from taint the body of the dead."]}, {"id": "E4.6.66", "lines": ["Then bar the entrance, seal the chamber tight;", "Let no king open it to mortal sight."]}, {"id": "E4.6.67", "lines": ["Let none discover how to reach that hall,", "Or find a path that leads beyond its wall."]}, {"id": "E4.6.68", "lines": ["Let sons and noble kin, in mourning, shun", "All feasts and pleasure till two months are done."]}, {"id": "E4.6.69", "lines": ["Such custom fits the death of kings, and still", "The good may weep upon this final will."]}, {"id": "E4.6.70", "lines": ["Remain beneath King Hormizd’s firm command;", "Obey his word when death has stilled my hand.”"]}, {"id": "E4.6.71", "lines": ["All wept upon that testament with fear,", "And Anooshirvan lived one further year."]}, {"id": "E4.7.1", "lines": ["Before his death, one night, the monarch prayed;", "Before Yazdan his reverent praise was laid."]}, {"id": "E4.7.2", "lines": ["His lucid spirit saw within a dream", "A sun rise through the night with sudden gleam."]}, {"id": "E4.7.3", "lines": ["A stairway rose through forty steps on high,", "Its summit reaching Saturn in the sky."]}, {"id": "E4.7.4", "lines": ["From the Hijaz, in stately joy and light,", "That sun rose upward through the folds of night."]}, {"id": "E4.7.5", "lines": ["It filled the world with brilliance, and its glow", "Spread Kaf to Kaf, and grief dissolved like snow."]}, {"id": "E4.7.6", "lines": ["The farthest rims of earth, the nearest hills,", "Took luster from the light its glory spills."]}, {"id": "E4.7.7", "lines": ["Light entered everywhere beneath the dome,", "Except the Shah’s own hall, still dark at home."]}, {"id": "E4.7.8", "lines": ["The Shah rose from his sleep at midnight’s hour,", "Yet spoke to none about that dream of power."]}, {"id": "E4.7.9", "lines": ["When dawn unveiled the sun in golden light,", "He summoned Bozorgmehr before his sight."]}, {"id": "E4.7.10", "lines": ["In private, then, the king of kings made known", "What sleep before his inward sight had shown."]}, {"id": "E4.7.11", "lines": ["Bozorgmehr weighed the dream within his mind,", "And sought the hidden meaning he might find."]}, {"id": "E4.7.12", "lines": ["He said, “O king supreme in power and fame,", "A mystery lies concealed within this flame.”"]}, {"id": "E4.7.13", "lines": ["The king said, “Speak the truth and do not hide;", "Suspense has drained the life I bear inside.”"]}, {"id": "E4.7.14", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr replied, “O king of might,", "Whose counsel climbs beyond the heavens’ height,"]}, {"id": "E4.7.15", "lines": ["I have well studied this strange dream’s design;", "Attend the marvel and its inward sign."]}, {"id": "E4.7.16", "lines": ["From this day forth, in forty years and more,", "One shall arise upon Arabia’s shore."]}, {"id": "E4.7.17", "lines": ["He will pursue the path of truth and right,", "And shun deceit, oppression, hate, and spite."]}, {"id": "E4.7.18", "lines": ["He will confound the faith of Zardosht’s fire,", "And raise another law that men desire."]}, {"id": "E4.7.19", "lines": ["He lifts his finger toward the moon on high;", "At once the orb splits open in the sky."]}, {"id": "E4.7.20", "lines": ["No man will see his back in battle’s hour;", "No Jew or Christian will withstand his power."]}, {"id": "E4.7.21", "lines": ["Old creeds and royal crowns will be cast down;", "His law will rule in every land and town."]}, {"id": "E4.7.22", "lines": ["He will ascend a pulpit of three stairs,", "And all the world will heed the truth he bears."]}, {"id": "E4.7.23", "lines": ["When he shall leave this passing house behind,", "The treasure of his speech will guide mankind."]}, {"id": "E4.7.24", "lines": ["The world will long rejoice in all his lore,", "While all your royal splendor is no more."]}, {"id": "E4.7.25", "lines": ["When he has died, an heir of yours will reign", "With elephants and tabiras in train."]}, {"id": "E4.7.26", "lines": ["From far Hijaz an army will arise,", "With scanty arms, yet burning for the prize."]}, {"id": "E4.7.27", "lines": ["They will cast him down from his throne to dust,", "And fill the world with faith in God and trust."]}, {"id": "E4.7.28", "lines": ["Then Sadeh’s feast will fade from mortal sight,", "And fire-temples lose their ancient light."]}, {"id": "E4.7.29", "lines": ["No more will men revere the sun and fire;", "The old heroic fortunes will expire."]}, {"id": "E4.7.30", "lines": ["Jamasp himself foretold this coming age,", "And spoke before Goshtasb as prophet-sage.”"]}, {"id": "E4.7.31", "lines": ["When Shah Anooshirvan had heard him speak,", "The color of his royal face grew weak."]}, {"id": "E4.7.32", "lines": ["All day he kept his company with grief;", "At night he slept, but sleep brought no relief."]}, {"id": "E4.7.33", "lines": ["When three night-watches passed in dread and fear,", "A sudden crash assailed the monarch’s ear;"]}, {"id": "E4.7.34", "lines": ["The vault of proud Madain rocked and shook,", "As though the earth its ancient sleep forsook:"]}, {"id": "E4.7.35", "lines": ["Full fourteen battlements came crashing down,", "And tumbled from the terrace of renown."]}, {"id": "E4.7.36", "lines": ["He told the sage the tidings of that night,", "And spoke about the cry that caused his fright."]}, {"id": "E4.7.37", "lines": ["The sage looked on the hall and made reply:", "“O Shah, your dream foretold this fearful cry."]}, {"id": "E4.7.38", "lines": ["The sun you saw last night has brought this sign;", "It marks the coming fall of your own line."]}, {"id": "E4.7.39", "lines": ["Know that your palace cried that very night", "The moonlike child first came into the light."]}, {"id": "E4.7.40", "lines": ["Soon will a rider with two steeds appear", "And say, ‘The fire no longer blazes here.’”"]}, {"id": "E4.7.41", "lines": ["Then swiftly as the flying dust is hurled,", "A horseman came with tidings through the world:"]}, {"id": "E4.7.42", "lines": ["“The sacred Fire of Fars has died away;", "Its flame went cold before the dawn of day!”"]}, {"id": "E4.7.43", "lines": ["Then Bozorgmehr said, “Shah, why grieve at this?", "What are the world’s brief sorrows and its bliss,"]}, {"id": "E4.7.44", "lines": ["When time has drawn your body from the throne,", "And palace, crown, and realm are no more known?”"]}, {"id": "E4.7.45", "lines": ["The Shah survived that omen not for long;", "He died, and all the world took up grief’s song."]}, {"id": "E4.7.46", "lines": ["So passed the monarch from the turning sphere;", "His dream foretold the fate his heirs would fear."]}]}, {"id": "E5", "title": "Hormizd, Son of Anooshirvan", "summary": "29 sections · 1,807 couplets", "path": "/poem/e5/", "couplets": [{"id": "E5.1.1", "lines": ["Summer laughed to see the apple red,", "And mocked its fruit and foliage as it said:"]}, {"id": "E5.1.2", "lines": ["“Those springtime blossoms on your breast once lay;", "Their scent could steal a sober mind away."]}, {"id": "E5.1.3", "lines": ["To whom did you your fragrant blossoms trade,", "And what exchange for springtime bloom was made?"]}, {"id": "E5.1.4", "lines": ["Who gave you emerald leaves and rubies great,", "That bend your branches with their jeweled weight?"]}, {"id": "E5.1.5", "lines": ["Did Jupiter give you that robe so fine,", "Its crystal stained with blood-red drops of wine?"]}, {"id": "E5.1.6", "lines": ["Yet I despair; your blossoms, once so bright,", "Are hidden by this splendor from my sight.”"]}, {"id": "E5.1.7", "lines": ["Sweet Spring, my charmer, where have you withdrawn,", "And left the garden stripped of all its dawn?"]}, {"id": "E5.1.8", "lines": ["Yet Autumn keeps some fragrance that was yours;", "I will drink wine while memory endures."]}, {"id": "E5.1.9", "lines": ["Though Autumn pales, I still will praise its hue,", "And crown it like Hormizd with splendor new."]}, {"id": "E5.1.10", "lines": ["Though now my work finds little favor here,", "When I am dead, its traces will appear."]}, {"id": "E5.1.11", "lines": ["An aged lord held Herat’s borderland,", "Much tried in life, with wisdom at command."]}, {"id": "E5.1.12", "lines": ["His name was Makh, experienced and wise,", "Whose cheerful face shone bright before men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "E5.1.13", "lines": ["I asked what record he had kept in thought", "Of Hormizd’s reign and what remembrance brought."]}, {"id": "E5.1.14", "lines": ["That elder then of Khorasan replied,", "And opened what the ancient years supplied."]}, {"id": "E5.1.15", "lines": ["When Hormizd sat upon the royal throne,", "He praised the God whose power no peer has known."]}, {"id": "E5.1.16", "lines": ["The Arbiter of Fortune first he named,", "Then to the silent chiefs his will proclaimed:"]}, {"id": "E5.1.17", "lines": ["“We will make bright the throne and honor still", "All worthy men through deeds of our goodwill."]}, {"id": "E5.1.18", "lines": ["We will enfold the world beneath our wing,", "As did our sire, and peace to all will bring."]}, {"id": "E5.1.19", "lines": ["We will make evildoers fear our might,", "And ease the oppressed by justice and by right."]}, {"id": "E5.1.20", "lines": ["If one does ill, we bear it, and forbear,", "And aid him when he falls in toil and care."]}, {"id": "E5.1.21", "lines": ["The throne of majesty rests firm and sure", "On mercy, justice, bounty, counsel pure."]}, {"id": "E5.1.22", "lines": ["Know good and evil cannot hide from Him", "Who made the world; His sight will never dim."]}, {"id": "E5.1.23", "lines": ["Our crowned forefathers in their passing days", "Won through their justice their appointed praise."]}, {"id": "E5.1.24", "lines": ["They sought mildness, equity, and worth,", "With valor fit to govern all the earth."]}, {"id": "E5.1.25", "lines": ["They served the lowly, cherished those of might,", "And kept ill-wishers trembling in their sight."]}, {"id": "E5.1.26", "lines": ["In every clime, to act and to command,", "Power, counsel, rule, and judgment fill our hand."]}, {"id": "E5.1.27", "lines": ["The pious love the king whom God has crowned;", "Through royal bounty, joy and wealth abound."]}, {"id": "E5.1.28", "lines": ["The needy we shall shelter from distress,", "And with imperial care their sorrows bless;"]}, {"id": "E5.1.29", "lines": ["The rich we also watch with careful eye,", "Though men who earn their wealth may still rise high."]}, {"id": "E5.1.30", "lines": ["Conceal no wish from our devoted heart;", "We will remove the fears that make you start."]}, {"id": "E5.1.31", "lines": ["You prosperous men, rejoice in crown and throne;", "Among the great, our luster is our own."]}, {"id": "E5.1.32", "lines": ["For mercy, justice, bounty dwell in me;", "Grow kind, and set your hearts from vengeance free."]}, {"id": "E5.1.33", "lines": ["Those who fear God will meet no evil fate;", "So seek Him, all, whatever your estate."]}, {"id": "E5.1.34", "lines": ["Let no wise heart be thankless in its thought;", "Nor weigh good deeds by recompense they brought."]}, {"id": "E5.1.35", "lines": ["When you bestow your benefit on men,", "Do not demand reward from them again."]}, {"id": "E5.1.36", "lines": ["Keep clear of those whose speech is built on lies;", "Their pleasing words are only a disguise."]}, {"id": "E5.1.37", "lines": ["If he is just, think not your king a fool,", "Nor doubt his understanding of his rule."]}, {"id": "E5.1.38", "lines": ["A king some call unwise may yet have read", "The former Shahs and learned from what they said."]}, {"id": "E5.1.39", "lines": ["When royal mercy brings your heart relief,", "Sow no deceit to yield a crop of grief."]}, {"id": "E5.1.40", "lines": ["Who spurns our counsel throws away the store", "Of Fortune’s gifts and opens ruin’s door."]}, {"id": "E5.1.41", "lines": ["Your Shah’s approval should suffice your need;", "Resistance is the road where losses breed."]}, {"id": "E5.1.42", "lines": ["His harsh rebuke is still in kindness meant;", "Were he your foe, he would not once relent."]}, {"id": "E5.1.43", "lines": ["Grudge no exertion in the cause of right,", "Nor take in wrongful wealth a false delight."]}, {"id": "E5.1.44", "lines": ["When in the world your heart’s desire is won,", "And all you sought lies gathered in the sun,"]}, {"id": "E5.1.45", "lines": ["Still, when the crown of seventy years is worn,", "You yield your winnings up and stand forlorn."]}, {"id": "E5.1.46", "lines": ["Our heart is greatly troubled for the poor;", "Their hardship is a grief we must endure."]}, {"id": "E5.1.47", "lines": ["We ask the holy Maker for the time", "To make the poor rejoice in Fortune’s prime."]}, {"id": "E5.1.48", "lines": ["We will not bring the saintly heart to pain,", "Nor let the righteous suffer from our reign."]}, {"id": "E5.1.49", "lines": ["If any man through wealth should seek a throne,", "And claim a kingly greatness of his own,"]}, {"id": "E5.1.50", "lines": ["We will strike off his head for such a claim;", "No rival shall dispute our royal name."]}, {"id": "E5.1.51", "lines": ["In speech and secret thought, in all we do,", "From first to last, our purpose shall hold true."]}, {"id": "E5.1.52", "lines": ["May God bestow His blessing on each soul;", "May heaven’s turning vault fulfill each goal.”"]}, {"id": "E5.1.53", "lines": ["When all the great assembly heard his word,", "Each man grew thoughtful at the speech he heard."]}, {"id": "E5.1.54", "lines": ["The wealthy men were filled with inward dread,", "And tyrants felt their hearts grow scorched and dead."]}, {"id": "E5.1.55", "lines": ["But sages and the poor grew glad of heart,", "For justice seemed to take the needy’s part."]}, {"id": "E5.2.1", "lines": ["Hormizd ruled well until his throne felt sure,", "And every aim he cherished seemed secure."]}, {"id": "E5.2.2", "lines": ["Then rage arose; his evil nature woke,", "And from the path of justice sharply broke."]}, {"id": "E5.2.3", "lines": ["As he had planned, he turned his hand to slay", "The men who served his father in their day."]}, {"id": "E5.2.4", "lines": ["They had been innocent and glad of heart,", "And feared no wound from royal fraud or art."]}, {"id": "E5.2.5", "lines": ["Three scribes of Anooshirvan held high place,", "Renowned for wisdom, office, rank, and grace."]}, {"id": "E5.2.6", "lines": ["One old and two still young in strength and years:", "Izad Gashasp was first among his peers."]}, {"id": "E5.2.7", "lines": ["Wise Borz-Mehr was learned, prudent, and serene,", "A scribe of noble bearing, form, and mien."]}, {"id": "E5.2.8", "lines": ["Mah Azar too was prosperous and wise,", "A counselor esteemed in royal eyes."]}, {"id": "E5.2.9", "lines": ["These three as vizirs served, in honor grown,", "And Anooshirvan had kept them as his own."]}, {"id": "E5.2.10", "lines": ["Hormizd desired to cast the three aside,", "For fear that they might rise against his pride."]}, {"id": "E5.2.11", "lines": ["Without just cause he lifted up his hand,", "And bound Izad Gashasp by harsh command."]}, {"id": "E5.2.12", "lines": ["The scribe was cast into the prison’s night,", "And royal favor vanished from his sight."]}, {"id": "E5.2.13", "lines": ["The High Mobad grew troubled at the news;", "His face grew pale, as fear drained all its hues."]}, {"id": "E5.2.14", "lines": ["The priest was named Zardosht, both good and wise,", "A just and quiet man in all men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "E5.2.15", "lines": ["When he heard that Izad Gashasp lay bound,", "His own heart seemed by piercing arrows found."]}, {"id": "E5.2.16", "lines": ["A day went by; the captive sat forlorn,", "Neglected, starved, of every kindness shorn."]}, {"id": "E5.2.17", "lines": ["No food, no clothing, and no comfort came;", "His suffering fed the prison’s inward flame."]}, {"id": "E5.2.18", "lines": ["A friend conveyed his message from that place,", "And told the troubled priest his wretched case:"]}, {"id": "E5.2.19", "lines": ["“O you who serve as refuge to the lone,", "Behold me in the Shah’s dark prison thrown."]}, {"id": "E5.2.20", "lines": ["No servant comes or ventures to my side;", "My starving body wastes away inside."]}, {"id": "E5.2.21", "lines": ["Send what is fitting for my present need,", "And when I die, send linen with all speed."]}, {"id": "E5.2.22", "lines": ["Send one to stitch the shroud that I shall wear,", "For death’s cold hand is closing everywhere.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.23", "lines": ["The High Mobad’s heart was wounded by that word,", "And grieved at all the suffering he heard."]}, {"id": "E5.2.24", "lines": ["He answered, “Do not grieve at prison’s chain,", "While life remains, take heart against your pain.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.25", "lines": ["Yet when the message left, his heart was torn,", "And for himself he felt dread newly born."]}, {"id": "E5.2.26", "lines": ["He thought, “If this hard-hearted Shah should learn", "I sent relief where prison torches burn,"]}, {"id": "E5.2.27", "lines": ["My life will count for nothing in his sight;", "The king will turn on me his livid spite."]}, {"id": "E5.2.28", "lines": ["This wrathful Shah will sentence me to death,", "And sweep my name from court with one fierce breath.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.29", "lines": ["His love for that imprisoned scribe was strong;", "He could not leave his friend to suffer long."]}, {"id": "E5.2.30", "lines": ["He bade his careful cook with food to go,", "And carry comfort to the man brought low."]}, {"id": "E5.2.31", "lines": ["Then on an Arab steed the priest arose,", "And rode himself toward prison and its woes."]}, {"id": "E5.2.32", "lines": ["The jailer paled with terror when he saw", "The priest approach, and stood in silent awe."]}, {"id": "E5.2.33", "lines": ["Yet none dared say, “Do not now come inside;", "The king is young, self-willed, and drunk with pride.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.34", "lines": ["The aged man, with tears upon his face,", "Dismounted there and entered that dark place."]}, {"id": "E5.2.35", "lines": ["He found Izad Gashasp in prison’s gloom;", "They clasped and wept within that narrow room."]}, {"id": "E5.2.36", "lines": ["Their lashes seemed like clouds of springtime rain,", "As each embraced the other in his pain."]}, {"id": "E5.2.37", "lines": ["They spoke about the evil Shah at length,", "Until their bitter words had spent their strength."]}, {"id": "E5.2.38", "lines": ["Then food was spread before those holy men;", "They said the baj, as was their custom then."]}, {"id": "E5.2.39", "lines": ["With barsom twigs in hand, they prayed to God,", "The righteous Judge beyond the tyrant’s rod."]}, {"id": "E5.2.40", "lines": ["Izad Gashasp spoke softly to his friend,", "Entrusting him with wishes for his end."]}, {"id": "E5.2.41", "lines": ["He spoke of hoarded treasure, house, and land,", "Of mansions, palaces, and wealth in hand."]}, {"id": "E5.2.42", "lines": ["He said, “O noble man, when you depart,", "Carry this word from my afflicted heart:"]}, {"id": "E5.2.43", "lines": ["Say to Hormizd, ‘Though you may spurn my claim,", "Remember Anooshirvan and all his fame."]}, {"id": "E5.2.44", "lines": ["Think how with toil I served that gracious king,", "And cherished you beneath my sheltering wing."]}, {"id": "E5.2.45", "lines": ["For this my recompense is chain and fear,", "And harsher threats that darken prison here."]}, {"id": "E5.2.46", "lines": ["On Judgment Day I shall present to God", "A guiltless heart oppressed beneath your rod.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.47", "lines": ["When Zardosht had returned from prison home,", "A spy went quickly where the Shah would roam."]}, {"id": "E5.2.48", "lines": ["He told Hormizd the news in every part;", "Dark schemes at once took root within his heart."]}, {"id": "E5.2.49", "lines": ["He showed Izad Gashasp no grace at all,", "But sent men in to slay him by the wall."]}, {"id": "E5.2.50", "lines": ["He heard the news about the Mobad too,", "Yet made no outward sign of what he knew."]}, {"id": "E5.2.51", "lines": ["He pondered how to bring about the end", "Of him who dared to aid his captive friend."]}, {"id": "E5.2.52", "lines": ["He ordered that the cook prepare the fare,", "And hide the poison in it with great care."]}, {"id": "E5.2.53", "lines": ["When audience-time had brought the priest to court,", "He came to render duty and report."]}, {"id": "E5.2.54", "lines": ["Hormizd said, “Stay and dine with me today;", "My new cook’s skill deserves a fine display.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.55", "lines": ["The priest sat down; the board was swiftly spread,", "His color faded, and his heart felt dread."]}, {"id": "E5.2.56", "lines": ["He feared that this would prove his final meal;", "The cooks brought meats arranged with royal zeal."]}, {"id": "E5.2.57", "lines": ["Hormizd would taste each dish, lest one discern", "What hidden malice in his heart would burn."]}, {"id": "E5.2.58", "lines": ["But when the poisoned course was carried near,", "The priest looked, then looked once again in fear."]}, {"id": "E5.2.59", "lines": ["Suspicion troubled him; he understood", "That death might lurk beneath this show of good."]}, {"id": "E5.2.60", "lines": ["Hormizd observed him, yet no word was said;", "He stretched his hand toward that dish of dread."]}, {"id": "E5.2.61", "lines": ["As royal custom held in former day,", "When kings bestowed their favor on display,"]}, {"id": "E5.2.62", "lines": ["He touched the food and drew the marrow free,", "Then held the morsel where the priest could see."]}, {"id": "E5.2.63", "lines": ["He said, “O honest man, this dish is fine;", "I had it made for you, that you might dine."]}, {"id": "E5.2.64", "lines": ["Now open wide your mouth and take this part;", "Such nourishment should gladden soul and heart.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.65", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “By life and royal crown,", "May Fortune never cast your glory down."]}, {"id": "E5.2.66", "lines": ["I have no hunger now; I must decline;", "Press me no further; grant this plea of mine.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.67", "lines": ["Hormizd swore by the sun and moon on high,", "And by the monarch’s soul beyond the sky:"]}, {"id": "E5.2.68", "lines": ["“You must accept this morsel from my hand,", "And not frustrate my wish or my command.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.69", "lines": ["The priest replied, “The king must be obeyed;", "I have no choice; your will cannot be swayed.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.70", "lines": ["He ate, then left the board in bitter pain,", "And hurried home before the poison’s reign."]}, {"id": "E5.2.71", "lines": ["He told no one about the poisoned food,", "But spread a robe and lay in grieving mood."]}, {"id": "E5.2.72", "lines": ["He called for nush-darus from town and store;", "Yet poison raged within him as before."]}, {"id": "E5.2.73", "lines": ["It all availed him nothing in his need;", "He cried to God against the Shah’s dark deed."]}, {"id": "E5.2.74", "lines": ["The Shah dispatched a trusted man to learn", "How deeply poison made the priest’s life burn."]}, {"id": "E5.2.75", "lines": ["He wished to know if that dark scheme had failed,", "Or if the hidden venom had prevailed."]}, {"id": "E5.2.76", "lines": ["When Zardosht saw the envoy, tears ran down", "His cheeks; he sent this message to the crown:"]}, {"id": "E5.2.77", "lines": ["“Go, tell Hormizd: Fortune rejects your reign;", "Your wicked rule no throne will now sustain."]}, {"id": "E5.2.78", "lines": ["I take my case before the Judge on high;", "Before His judgment stand both you and I."]}, {"id": "E5.2.79", "lines": ["No peaceful sleep shall visit you at night;", "God’s punishment will answer every spite."]}, {"id": "E5.2.80", "lines": ["I take my leave of you, malignant man;", "Ill done will bring you ill by heaven’s plan.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.81", "lines": ["The envoy heard and went with tears away,", "And bore those words before the Shah that day."]}, {"id": "E5.2.82", "lines": ["Hormizd repented, writhing at their sound,", "But saw no cure for that deep grief profound."]}, {"id": "E5.2.83", "lines": ["Before long, the High Mobad died; all wept,", "And sorrow through the realm in silence crept."]}, {"id": "E5.2.84", "lines": ["The priest’s sad death sent anguish through the realm;", "Grief seized the court and shook the royal helm."]}, {"id": "E5.2.85", "lines": ["But blood-stained Hormizd felt no fear or dread,", "Nor feared ill Fortune for the newly dead."]}, {"id": "E5.2.86", "lines": ["He steeled himself for bloodshed more and more,", "And opened yet another murderous door."]}, {"id": "E5.2.87", "lines": ["He made Bahram Azarmihan his tool,", "And called him in by night through terror’s rule."]}, {"id": "E5.2.88", "lines": ["Beside the throne he made Bahram kneel low,", "Then said, “Would you be safe from royal woe?"]}, {"id": "E5.2.89", "lines": ["When sunlight makes the mountain summits gleam", "Like shining plates of armor in its beam,"]}, {"id": "E5.2.90", "lines": ["Come with the nobles of Iran to stand", "Before my throne to hear what I command."]}, {"id": "E5.2.91", "lines": ["I shall inquire what dwells in Barzin’s mind,", "And ask what kind of friend you there can find."]}, {"id": "E5.2.92", "lines": ["I ask, ‘Is he God’s servant, pure and true?’", "Then give the answer I expect of you."]}, {"id": "E5.2.93", "lines": ["Say, ‘He is evil, both in thought and deed.’", "Then ask of me whatever you may need."]}, {"id": "E5.2.94", "lines": ["A handmaid, signet, throne, or crown request;", "Ask what you will, and I shall grant the best.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.95", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I will, and multiply", "This evil hundredfold beneath the sky.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.96", "lines": ["Thus Hormizd used deceit to weave a snare,", "And draw Simah Barzin to foul despair."]}, {"id": "E5.2.97", "lines": ["He was a chief whom Anooshirvan knew", "As wise and loyal, steadfast, brave, and true."]}, {"id": "E5.2.98", "lines": ["When morning’s ivory robe appeared in sight,", "And Sol in Gemini poured out his light,"]}, {"id": "E5.2.99", "lines": ["King Hormizd sat upon the ivory throne;", "Above his head the costly crown was shown."]}, {"id": "E5.2.100", "lines": ["The chiefs of Iran gathered at the gate,", "And came in ordered ranks before the state."]}, {"id": "E5.2.101", "lines": ["The chamberlain withdrew the curtain fair,", "And all the throng approached with courtly care."]}, {"id": "E5.2.102", "lines": ["First came Bahram Azarmihan in place,", "With Simah Barzin and the chiefs of grace."]}, {"id": "E5.2.103", "lines": ["Each took his seat according to his right;", "The crowd stood waiting in the monarch’s sight."]}, {"id": "E5.2.104", "lines": ["The monarch questioned Bahram in that hall:", "“Does Simah Barzin merit wealth at all?"]}, {"id": "E5.2.105", "lines": ["Or does he harbor evil in his heart?", "The ill-disposed deserve no royal part.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.106", "lines": ["Bahram discerned the purpose of the king,", "And knew the grief his questioning would bring."]}, {"id": "E5.2.107", "lines": ["He thought, “We all must weep for this design;", "At last my grave will lack both cloth and sign.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.108", "lines": ["He answered, “Shah, from Simah comes no gain;", "His deeds have brought this land to grief and pain."]}, {"id": "E5.2.109", "lines": ["He wrecked Iran; may flesh and skin be flayed,", "His senseless body in the dust be laid."]}, {"id": "E5.2.110", "lines": ["His speech is nothing else but lies and spite,", "And every word breeds enmity and fight.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.111", "lines": ["When Simah heard his friend attack his name,", "He answered him with sorrow, shock, and shame:"]}, {"id": "E5.2.112", "lines": ["“My good old friend, do not defame me so,", "Nor join the Div and make your honor low."]}, {"id": "E5.2.113", "lines": ["Since you have been my friend, what have you known", "Of Ahriman in deeds that I have shown?”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.114", "lines": ["Bahram Azarmihan replied, “The seed", "You scattered through the world yields only weed."]}, {"id": "E5.2.115", "lines": ["You will be first to reap the crop you grew;", "Black smoke shall be the fire’s appointed hue."]}, {"id": "E5.2.116", "lines": ["For Anooshirvan summoned us to meet,", "And made us kneel before his royal seat."]}, {"id": "E5.2.117", "lines": ["The High Mobad and Bozorgmehr appeared,", "With Izad Gashasp, just and much revered."]}, {"id": "E5.2.118", "lines": ["The Shah inquired, ‘Who merits throne and crown?", "Which son should wear the realm’s supreme renown?"]}, {"id": "E5.2.119", "lines": ["Which one has farr and worth to rule alone,", "And make the realm and royal fortune known?’"]}, {"id": "E5.2.120", "lines": ["Then all of us arose and made reply:", "‘This Turkish line should never rule on high."]}, {"id": "E5.2.121", "lines": ["No man would trust such blood with rule and reign;", "His mother’s Khan-born nature shows too plain."]}, {"id": "E5.2.122", "lines": ["He bears his mother’s likeness, form, and air;", "Her inward nature too he well may share.’"]}, {"id": "E5.2.123", "lines": ["But you declared, ‘Let Hormizd wear the crown,’", "Its bitter fruit now weighs your spirit down."]}, {"id": "E5.2.124", "lines": ["For this I testify before the throne,", "And make your fault before the monarch known.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.125", "lines": ["At those true words that fell from Bahram’s tongue,", "Hormizd grew pale, ashamed of what had sprung."]}, {"id": "E5.2.126", "lines": ["At night he sent them both to prison’s gloom,", "And gave no sign for two nights of their doom."]}, {"id": "E5.2.127", "lines": ["The third night, when the moon rose clear and bright", "Above the mountains with its silver light,"]}, {"id": "E5.2.128", "lines": ["He sent men to the prison, where they slew", "That noble man who once had served him true."]}, {"id": "E5.2.129", "lines": ["He gained from that no profit but a curse,", "And grief and infamy grew ever worse."]}, {"id": "E5.2.130", "lines": ["When honest Simah died, Bahram sent word", "To Hormizd, asking that his plea be heard:"]}, {"id": "E5.2.131", "lines": ["“O Shah whose crown stands over moon and sky,", "You know what secret burdens I keep by."]}, {"id": "E5.2.132", "lines": ["Before your father’s throne, through every test,", "I always sought your good and served you best."]}, {"id": "E5.2.133", "lines": ["If you will call me to your side, alone,", "I will reveal a matter still unknown."]}, {"id": "E5.2.134", "lines": ["Release me now from prison and its chain;", "Iran will gain; the wise will feel less pain.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.135", "lines": ["Hormizd received the message and chose one", "Trusted to bring Bahram when day was done."]}, {"id": "E5.2.136", "lines": ["At night the monarch brought him to his seat,", "And spoke in gentle words, their talk discreet."]}, {"id": "E5.2.137", "lines": ["He said, “Reveal the counsel you would bring,", "That may secure my life and throne as king.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.138", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “A plain black chest is stored", "Within your treasury, O royal lord."]}, {"id": "E5.2.139", "lines": ["Within that case a sealed casket lies;", "A Persian scroll lies sealed from prying eyes."]}, {"id": "E5.2.140", "lines": ["On white silk, in your father’s hand, are traced", "The fortunes of the years yet to be faced.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.141", "lines": ["Hormizd sent orders: “Search the ancient store;", "Bring me the black chest sealed in days before.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.142", "lines": ["He read: “For twelve full years shall Hormizd reign,", "A mighty king, secure from grief and pain."]}, {"id": "E5.2.143", "lines": ["Then turmoil rises, justice falls away,", "And tyranny and violence win the day."]}, {"id": "E5.2.144", "lines": ["From every side his enemies appear,", "While one like Ahriman awakens fear;"]}, {"id": "E5.2.145", "lines": ["His troops disperse; his foes usurp the crown,", "Blind both his eyes, and strike the monarch down.”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.146", "lines": ["He read his father’s words, his heart grown sore,", "Then called Bahram: “What brought you to my door?"]}, {"id": "E5.2.147", "lines": ["What did you seek in bringing me this scroll?", "To save your head; is that your only goal?”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.148", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “O Turk, your mother’s line", "Has given you no better blood than mine."]}, {"id": "E5.2.149", "lines": ["May sorrow fall on him who made you king,", "And set the crown upon so base a thing!”"]}, {"id": "E5.2.150", "lines": ["Hormizd now knew that one he sought to kill", "Could never serve him with a loyal will."]}, {"id": "E5.2.151", "lines": ["He sent Bahram back to the prison’s gloom;", "The next night, royal orders sealed his doom."]}, {"id": "E5.2.152", "lines": ["No sage remained to guide him or advise;", "No Mobad stood to make his judgment wise."]}, {"id": "E5.2.153", "lines": ["From evil habits greater evils grow;", "Shun them, and all the grief their seeds will sow."]}, {"id": "E5.3.1", "lines": ["Remorseful then, he shaped a better life,", "And turned his heart from tyranny and strife."]}, {"id": "E5.3.2", "lines": ["Each year, when nights were short, he made his way", "To fair Istakhr, and there would three months stay."]}, {"id": "E5.3.3", "lines": ["That city’s air was tranquil, bright, and sweet;", "He scarcely wished to leave that fair retreat."]}, {"id": "E5.3.4", "lines": ["Three autumn months at Isfahan he spent;", "Its noble seat and air brought him content."]}, {"id": "E5.3.5", "lines": ["In winter, Tisfoon was his resting place,", "Among the troops and counselors of grace."]}, {"id": "E5.3.6", "lines": ["The Mobadan assembled in his train;", "In spring he dwelt upon the Arvand plain."]}, {"id": "E5.3.7", "lines": ["Thus time went by, while terror of the scroll", "Still held its shadow deep within his soul."]}, {"id": "E5.3.8", "lines": ["Three watches of the night he spent in prayer,", "And shed no blood, nor schemed to lay a snare."]}, {"id": "E5.3.9", "lines": ["No further wrong he did; no evil will", "Moved in his heart or turned his thoughts to ill."]}, {"id": "E5.3.10", "lines": ["Whenever night’s blue veil was drawn from sight,", "And topaz dawn appeared upon the height,"]}, {"id": "E5.3.11", "lines": ["A herald cried, “O men of farr, draw near;", "Attend the Shah’s command and heed it here:"]}, {"id": "E5.3.12", "lines": ["If tilled land suffers and the sower grieves,", "Because another’s horse has crushed the sheaves,"]}, {"id": "E5.3.13", "lines": ["If any beast should enter growing grain,", "Or trespass bring an orchard harm and pain,"]}, {"id": "E5.3.14", "lines": ["Cut off that horse’s ears and tail, I say;", "And hang the thief who takes the fruit away.”"]}, {"id": "E5.3.15", "lines": ["For three years thus he traveled through the land;", "The chiefs blessed justice dealt by his own hand."]}, {"id": "E5.3.16", "lines": ["The Shah had one beloved son, Parviz,", "Moonlike in face, his heart’s delight and ease."]}, {"id": "E5.3.17", "lines": ["He bore the name of Khosrow too, and so", "His father rarely let the young prince go."]}, {"id": "E5.3.18", "lines": ["The father never bloomed without the son;", "Their hearts were bound as moonlight is to sun."]}, {"id": "E5.3.19", "lines": ["A horseman from Prince Khosrow’s favored train", "Rode roughshod through a farmer’s standing grain;"]}, {"id": "E5.3.20", "lines": ["The rider laughed: “Complain to whom you will:", "I serve Parviz! Who cares what crops I kill?”"]}, {"id": "E5.3.21", "lines": ["“Dock tail and ears,” the Shah in wrath decreed,", "“And give the peasant this disfigured steed!"]}, {"id": "E5.3.22", "lines": ["The rider too shall serve him bound and chained,", "Until the value of his crop is gained;"]}, {"id": "E5.3.23", "lines": ["From Khosrow’s treasury let gold be weighed,", "Till every stalk of damage is repaid!"]}, {"id": "E5.3.24", "lines": ["Pay in the field, before the owner’s eyes;", "Let justice stand where royal judgment lies.”"]}, {"id": "E5.3.25", "lines": ["The prince asked chiefs to plead before the throne", "That ears and tail should stay the horse’s own."]}, {"id": "E5.3.26", "lines": ["But royal wrath remained in firm command;", "The Shah dismissed the pleas on every hand."]}, {"id": "E5.3.27", "lines": ["The groom, afraid of what the king might do,", "Cut ears and tail where ruined grasses grew."]}, {"id": "E5.3.28", "lines": ["Khosrow then paid the owner what was due,", "And thus the Shah Hormizd’s decree went through."]}, {"id": "E5.3.29", "lines": ["Soon after, Hormizd hunted with his train,", "And all took pleasure on the open plain."]}, {"id": "E5.3.30", "lines": ["A valiant horseman, captain’s son, drew near", "A laden vine whose unripe grapes shone clear."]}, {"id": "E5.3.31", "lines": ["He bade his servant cut the clusters bare,", "And take them to his cook with heedless air."]}, {"id": "E5.3.32", "lines": ["The owner cried, “You did not tend this vine,", "Nor buy its fruit with treasure, gold, or wine."]}, {"id": "E5.3.33", "lines": ["Why spoil the fruit of work you never shared?", "Before the Shah your theft shall be declared.”"]}, {"id": "E5.3.34", "lines": ["The horseman, fearing what the Shah would do,", "Unfastened then his belt of golden hue."]}, {"id": "E5.3.35", "lines": ["His gem-set belt, with links of beaten gold,", "He gave the man, whose wrath was then controlled."]}, {"id": "E5.3.36", "lines": ["The owner said, “This wrong I now forgive;", "If that just judge should hear, you would not live.”"]}, {"id": "E5.3.37", "lines": ["So justice spared not even Hormizd’s own;", "The prince and captain’s son bowed to the throne."]}, {"id": "E5.4.1", "lines": ["When he had ruled ten righteous years in fame,", "From every realm the voice of foemen came."]}, {"id": "E5.4.2", "lines": ["King Saveh crossed Jihun to join the fray,", "With tabiras, stores, elephants’ array."]}, {"id": "E5.4.3", "lines": ["Four hundred thousand soldiers filled his force;", "Their numbers darkened all the army’s course."]}, {"id": "E5.4.4", "lines": ["Twelve hundred warlike elephants were led;", "The crowded earth could scarcely bear their tread."]}, {"id": "E5.4.5", "lines": ["From Talaqan to Herat’s borderland,", "His troops lay packed like warp and woof in hand;"]}, {"id": "E5.4.6", "lines": ["Toward Marv he led his soldiers on their way;", "Their dust concealed the earth beneath the day."]}, {"id": "E5.4.7", "lines": ["King Saveh sent Hormizd a written scroll:", "“Call up your powers; let caution rule your soul."]}, {"id": "E5.4.8", "lines": ["Repair the roads and bridges for my train;", "Prepare provisions all along the plain."]}, {"id": "E5.4.9", "lines": ["Remember how my sword can strike its blow;", "Through hill and valley shall my soldiers go.”"]}, {"id": "E5.4.10", "lines": ["When Hormizd read that letter, he turned pale,", "So vast the force described in threat and tale."]}, {"id": "E5.4.11", "lines": ["Then Caesar came against him from one side,", "His legions sweeping through the country wide."]}, {"id": "E5.4.12", "lines": ["A hundred thousand Romans formed his train,", "Redoubted horsemen, bold through war’s domain."]}, {"id": "E5.4.13", "lines": ["The cities Anooshirvan seized before,", "Whose name still made Rum tremble at the core,"]}, {"id": "E5.4.14", "lines": ["He took again by sword and hard command;", "Once more they bent beneath his Roman hand."]}, {"id": "E5.4.15", "lines": ["A force came from the Khazars’ distant side,", "And blackened all the land in battle-pride."]}, {"id": "E5.4.16", "lines": ["Their leader was a warrior skilled in war,", "With troops and treasure gathered by the score."]}, {"id": "E5.4.17", "lines": ["From Armenia to Ardabil they spread;", "Their troops filled all the country as they sped."]}, {"id": "E5.4.18", "lines": ["Then Arab horsemen swept across the plain,", "A raging sea of spears behind their train."]}, {"id": "E5.4.19", "lines": ["Abbas and Amr, two youthful horsemen bright,", "Led them through havoc, pillage, raid, and fight."]}, {"id": "E5.4.20", "lines": ["They ruined crops and land with ruthless hand,", "Because Hormizd had taxed their native land."]}, {"id": "E5.4.21", "lines": ["That army marched and came to Farat’s shore;", "No grass survived where trampling horsemen tore."]}, {"id": "E5.4.22", "lines": ["When fortune lowered, news reached Hormizd’s ear;", "The once-successful Shah grew numb with fear."]}, {"id": "E5.4.23", "lines": ["He then repented all the sages slain,", "And mourned the wise he drove from court in pain."]}, {"id": "E5.4.24", "lines": ["He saw no counselor beside him stand,", "Yet needed wisdom more than strength of hand."]}, {"id": "E5.4.25", "lines": ["He summoned all Iranians to his hall,", "A full assembly gathered at his call."]}, {"id": "E5.4.26", "lines": ["He told the nobles plainly of the case,", "And said, “Great peril moves against our race."]}, {"id": "E5.4.27", "lines": ["A force more vast than any can recall", "Is marching now on Iran’s realm and wall.”"]}, {"id": "E5.4.28", "lines": ["The frontier lords came forward to advise,", "And weighed the rising danger with clear eyes:"]}, {"id": "E5.4.29", "lines": ["“O prudent Shah, give heed to what you hear;", "Your servants warn of dangers drawing near."]}, {"id": "E5.4.30", "lines": ["You are our wise Shah; we obey your will;", "The Mobad’s office you alone now fill."]}, {"id": "E5.4.31", "lines": ["Your scribes and learned Mobadan lie slain;", "Their deaths have left both faith and law in pain."]}, {"id": "E5.4.32", "lines": ["Now think what must be done to guard the land,", "And who can keep Iran beneath your hand.”"]}, {"id": "E5.4.33", "lines": ["Then spoke the Mobad serving as wazir:", "“O knowledge-seeking Shah, incline your ear."]}, {"id": "E5.4.34", "lines": ["If Khazar troops come forth in battle might,", "Our warriors must not delay the fight."]}, {"id": "E5.4.35", "lines": ["Let us court Rum with overtures of peace,", "Then tear the Arabs root and branch, nor cease."]}, {"id": "E5.4.36", "lines": ["King Saveh presses hardest on our state;", "From him our prospects look more dark with fate."]}, {"id": "E5.4.37", "lines": ["Our gravest threat comes down through Khorasan;", "He plans to ravage wealth throughout Iran."]}, {"id": "E5.4.38", "lines": ["When Turks cross the Jihun to make their raid,", "Our answer must be war, no move delayed.”"]}, {"id": "E5.4.39", "lines": ["Hormizd, intent on finding counsel right,", "Said, “How shall we withstand King Saveh’s might?”"]}, {"id": "E5.4.40", "lines": ["The Mobad replied, “Now set troops in line,", "For armies make a monarch’s glory shine."]}, {"id": "E5.4.41", "lines": ["Summon the muster-master; let him show", "How many men are fit to face the foe.”"]}, {"id": "E5.4.42", "lines": ["The muster-master brought the army’s list,", "And stood before the Shah, no soldier missed."]}, {"id": "E5.4.43", "lines": ["The army numbered five score thousand strong,", "With many footmen in the mounted throng."]}, {"id": "E5.4.44", "lines": ["The chief priest said, “With these, confront the foe;", "Against King Saveh let your courage show."]}, {"id": "E5.4.45", "lines": ["You must act boldly, holding fast to right,", "And put all fraud and falsehood out of sight."]}, {"id": "E5.4.46", "lines": ["Thus you will free your subjects from their chain,", "As fits a king who rules without a stain."]}, {"id": "E5.4.47", "lines": ["You heard what fell on Goshtasb, overthrown,", "And Lohrasp too, when fortune’s light had flown."]}, {"id": "E5.4.48", "lines": ["Great Arjasp, that old Wolf, with Chin’s array,", "Brought bitter grief to Balkh in that dark day."]}, {"id": "E5.4.49", "lines": ["Life in that land grew bitter as the grave,", "Until Esfandiyar came forth to save."]}, {"id": "E5.4.50", "lines": ["Unless the Shah accepts the counsel shown,", "The Turks of Chin will make his troubles known."]}, {"id": "E5.4.51", "lines": ["Though I am older than the king in years,", "His wisdom far exceeds mine, it appears.”"]}, {"id": "E5.4.52", "lines": ["The king said, “Caesar shall not take the field;", "The towns he claims I willingly shall yield."]}, {"id": "E5.4.53", "lines": ["The towns my father captured I restore", "To Caesar’s rule; they shall be mine no more.”"]}, {"id": "E5.4.54", "lines": ["He chose a warrior-scribe, discreet and wise,", "Who watched the turns of war with practiced eyes."]}, {"id": "E5.4.55", "lines": ["He sent him to Caesar with this decree:", "“No Roman cities shall be claimed by me."]}, {"id": "E5.4.56", "lines": ["That land is yours; but set no foot on ours,", "If you would keep your greatness and your powers.”"]}, {"id": "E5.4.57", "lines": ["The envoy came before the Roman throne", "And made King Hormizd’s message fully known."]}, {"id": "E5.4.58", "lines": ["The lord of Rum withdrew and did no harm;", "No Roman sword brought Iran fresh alarm."]}, {"id": "E5.4.59", "lines": ["When Caesar had withdrawn, the king prepared", "To meet the Khazars, and his anger flared."]}, {"id": "E5.4.60", "lines": ["Against the Arab chiefs along Farat,", "He sent a troop to bar each ford and ghat;"]}, {"id": "E5.4.61", "lines": ["Their desert horsemen, checked by sword and spear,", "Withdrew in haste, and left the borders clear."]}, {"id": "E5.4.62", "lines": ["He raised a force whose dust obscured the light,", "And sent it to the Khazars’ land to fight."]}, {"id": "E5.4.63", "lines": ["Kharrad, a man of farr and just intent,", "Devout and noble, with the army went."]}, {"id": "E5.4.64", "lines": ["When into Armenia the soldiers passed,", "The Khazar troops withdrew before them fast."]}, {"id": "E5.4.65", "lines": ["They slew full many Khazars as they fled,", "And took great booty from the land ahead."]}, {"id": "E5.4.66", "lines": ["When Kharrad’s victory came to royal hand,", "King Saveh was the last foe still to stand."]}, {"id": "E5.4.67", "lines": ["So three were turned aside by sword and word;", "Now Saveh’s challenge waited to be heard."]}, {"id": "E5.5.1", "lines": ["A servant of the Shah, Nastooh by name,", "Wise and observant, to his presence came."]}, {"id": "E5.5.2", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah, be glad; may every hand", "Of ill stay far from you and from your land."]}, {"id": "E5.5.3", "lines": ["My father, wise Mehran Setad, has still", "His ancient wit, though age has bent his will."]}, {"id": "E5.5.4", "lines": ["He sits apart with Zand-Avesta near,", "And seeks no worldly pleasure year by year."]}, {"id": "E5.5.5", "lines": ["Through age and weakness, worldly wants expire;", "Yet hidden knowledge still preserves its fire."]}, {"id": "E5.5.6", "lines": ["One day and night I sat beside the sage,", "And spoke of Saveh’s troops and warlike rage."]}, {"id": "E5.5.7", "lines": ["I told of elephants and countless men;", "My father said, ‘As was foretold back then,"]}, {"id": "E5.5.8", "lines": ["The ancient prophecy is now fulfilled.’", "I asked, ‘What prophecy has fate now willed?’"]}, {"id": "E5.5.9", "lines": ["He answered, ‘If the Shah should call me near,", "I will unfold the mystery for his ear.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.5.10", "lines": ["The king commanded one of noble race", "To fetch the elder swiftly from his place."]}, {"id": "E5.5.11", "lines": ["They bore him on a litter to the court,", "That ancient man of knowledge and report."]}, {"id": "E5.5.12", "lines": ["His mind was deep, a treasury of years;", "Then Hormizd questioned him before his peers:"]}, {"id": "E5.5.13", "lines": ["“What do you know of what the past has kept?”", "The elder bowed, and through his memories swept."]}, {"id": "E5.5.14", "lines": ["“O heedful Shah, when Chin’s great ruler sent", "Your mother here, this was the way it went."]}, {"id": "E5.5.15", "lines": ["I led eight score brave warriors in that hour,", "To seek her hand and join her to his power."]}, {"id": "E5.5.16", "lines": ["Your father, upright king of kings, made plain:", "‘Seek no slave’s daughter for the royal reign."]}, {"id": "E5.5.17", "lines": ["Require a daughter of the queen instead;", "No slave shall share the Sasanian bed.’"]}, {"id": "E5.5.18", "lines": ["I went before the Khan and bowed my head;", "Five lovely daughters were before me led."]}, {"id": "E5.5.19", "lines": ["All five seemed fit to grace a monarch’s throne,", "With gait like pheasants, springtime beauty shown."]}, {"id": "E5.5.20", "lines": ["They bloomed with color, fragrance, form, and grace;", "The Khan then sent me to their private place."]}, {"id": "E5.5.21", "lines": ["I entered that famed court where all were fair,", "Their faces decked, with roses in their hair."]}, {"id": "E5.5.22", "lines": ["All wore bright jewels; your mother wore no gem,", "Yet she alone outshone the rest of them."]}, {"id": "E5.5.23", "lines": ["She sat there shyly, head and eyes cast low;", "Her sleeves concealed the face she would not show."]}, {"id": "E5.5.24", "lines": ["Yet she alone was daughter of the queen;", "No other bore such bloom, such grace serene."]}, {"id": "E5.5.25", "lines": ["The queen was Faghfoor’s daughter, high and pure;", "She gave the child a grace that would endure."]}, {"id": "E5.5.26", "lines": ["She grieved her child must leave her father’s hall,", "And pass beyond her kin and country’s call."]}, {"id": "E5.5.27", "lines": ["Of all those daughters, her alone I chose;", "I passed the rest, though each had cheeks of rose."]}, {"id": "E5.5.28", "lines": ["The Khan said, ‘Choose another; all are fair,", "Each one is noble, beautiful, and rare.’"]}, {"id": "E5.5.29", "lines": ["I answered, ‘Choice is made; I will not stray;", "To choose anew would shame us all today.’"]}, {"id": "E5.5.30", "lines": ["The Khan then called a Mobad to his side,", "To read the stars and fortunes of the bride."]}, {"id": "E5.5.31", "lines": ["The Mobad spoke: ‘You shall hear nothing here", "But truth and good; no evil shall appear."]}, {"id": "E5.5.32", "lines": ["From her and from the Shah a prince shall rise,", "A lion among men before all eyes."]}, {"id": "E5.5.33", "lines": ["Lofty in stature, mighty-limbed and bold,", "Brave as a lion, generous with gold."]}, {"id": "E5.5.34", "lines": ["Black-eyed, impetuous, and fierce in ire,", "He will be king when death has claimed his sire."]}, {"id": "E5.5.35", "lines": ["His father’s crown and treasure he shall gain;", "For many years from evil shall refrain."]}, {"id": "E5.5.36", "lines": ["Thereafter shall a mighty king arise,", "Leading the Turks beneath triumphant skies."]}, {"id": "E5.5.37", "lines": ["He will seek Iran and Yemen with his train,", "And bring the Shah to anger, fear, and pain."]}, {"id": "E5.5.38", "lines": ["The Shah will fear his high triumphant star,", "And dread his fortune, shining from afar."]}, {"id": "E5.5.39", "lines": ["Yet far away there lives a loyal man,", "A subject born from some heroic clan."]}, {"id": "E5.5.40", "lines": ["An exalted horseman, true in heart and hand,", "Tall, lean of frame, a guardian of the land."]}, {"id": "E5.5.41", "lines": ["Upon his head are crisp black locks like musk;", "His swarthy skin is dark as evening dusk."]}, {"id": "E5.5.42", "lines": ["His bones are strong, his nose is large; his will", "Is fierce and harsh, his temper harder still."]}, {"id": "E5.5.43", "lines": ["They call him Chubin; from the Parthian line", "Of ancient kings his noble blood shall shine;"]}, {"id": "E5.5.44", "lines": ["From Ashk and brave Milad he draws his birth,", "A leopard fierce to purge the troubled earth.’"]}, {"id": "E5.5.45", "lines": ["The Khan rejoiced past any man, when word", "Of this auspicious prophecy was heard."]}, {"id": "E5.5.46", "lines": ["He gave your father his own fairest flower", "Of all his daughters, with a splendid dower."]}, {"id": "E5.5.47", "lines": ["I took her for the Shah by solemn vow;", "The Khan with jewels decked her neck and brow."]}, {"id": "E5.5.48", "lines": ["So much was drawn from treasury and store,", "Its transport burdened me and many more."]}, {"id": "E5.5.49", "lines": ["He led his troops down to the river’s side,", "And placed aboard a boat the royal bride."]}, {"id": "E5.5.50", "lines": ["With sorrow for his child, he turned away,", "His heart oppressed by grief throughout that day."]}, {"id": "E5.5.51", "lines": ["Now I have told my tale before your face;", "O king of men, seek out that man of grace."]}, {"id": "E5.5.52", "lines": ["Dispatch your riders; comb each town and vale,", "For by his hand your cause shall yet prevail."]}, {"id": "E5.5.53", "lines": ["But tell this thing to neither friend nor foe;", "Let none beyond your hidden counsel know.”"]}, {"id": "E5.5.54", "lines": ["Even as he spoke, his living spirit fled;", "The old man bowed, and with that word lay dead."]}, {"id": "E5.5.55", "lines": ["All folk bewailed him bitterly that day;", "The king of kings was stunned with grief’s dismay."]}, {"id": "E5.5.56", "lines": ["The nobles wept; the Shah then spoke aloud", "Before the Iranians gathered in a crowd:"]}, {"id": "E5.5.57", "lines": ["“Mehran Setad preserved this ancient tale,", "And told it now before his breath could fail."]}, {"id": "E5.5.58", "lines": ["Then, having spoken, he gave God his soul;", "Let God be thanked, who let him reach this goal."]}, {"id": "E5.5.59", "lines": ["Had I delayed one hour to bring him here,", "He would have died and left my heart in fear."]}, {"id": "E5.5.60", "lines": ["Now search our realm for this appointed one,", "Whether he be a lord or liegeman’s son."]}, {"id": "E5.5.61", "lines": ["Seek tirelessly, and do not end the quest,", "Until this warrior’s name is manifest.”"]}, {"id": "E5.5.62", "lines": ["Then Kharrad spoke, brave son of Barzin’s race:", "“I know this champion, both in name and face;"]}, {"id": "E5.5.63", "lines": ["It is Bahram, son of Goshnasp, whom you seek,", "The very warrior of whose signs you speak!"]}, {"id": "E5.5.64", "lines": ["He governs Rey and holds Barda in hand,", "And guards the northern border of our land.”"]}, {"id": "E5.5.65", "lines": ["The Shah sent Kharrad swiftly on his way,", "To bring the chieftain without more delay:"]}, {"id": "E5.5.66", "lines": ["“Come secretly from Ardabil, and ride", "Alone, with no attendants at your side.”"]}, {"id": "E5.5.67", "lines": ["The envoy told him all that Mehran said,", "And of the triumph promised him ahead."]}, {"id": "E5.6.1", "lines": ["He called no warriors from his own command,", "But hurried out from Barda through the land."]}, {"id": "E5.6.2", "lines": ["That world-aspiring horseman reached the throne,", "And to the Shah his coming was made known."]}, {"id": "E5.6.3", "lines": ["When he beheld the king of kings, he bent;", "The old campaigner hailed his star’s ascent."]}, {"id": "E5.6.4", "lines": ["The Shah at first sight favored him and knew", "The signs Mehran Setad had named were true."]}, {"id": "E5.6.5", "lines": ["He smiled; his royal countenance grew bright,", "Then welcomed him and lodged him with delight."]}, {"id": "E5.6.6", "lines": ["When night cast off its veil of musky shade,", "The sun shone forth, its golden face displayed."]}, {"id": "E5.6.7", "lines": ["The frontier lord came proudly through the gate,", "And all the chiefs made way to mark his state."]}, {"id": "E5.6.8", "lines": ["The Shah then summoned him and bade him sit", "Among the nobles, honored, grave, and fit."]}, {"id": "E5.6.9", "lines": ["He told how Iran stood in danger’s hour,", "And what Mehran had said of Saveh’s power."]}, {"id": "E5.6.10", "lines": ["He asked, “Shall I make peace or choose to fight,", "And send my troops against King Saveh’s might?”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.11", "lines": ["The warrior answered, “Peace must not be made,", "When he himself has come with battle’s blade."]}, {"id": "E5.6.12", "lines": ["If we sue peace while he desires the fray,", "We show defeat before the whole array."]}, {"id": "E5.6.13", "lines": ["The foe grows bold when he beholds you weak;", "A feast ill suits the hour when war should speak.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.14", "lines": ["Hormizd replied, “What course is left to try?", "Shall I delay, or march where banners fly?”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.15", "lines": ["He answered, “When the foe acts without right,", "The omen favors those compelled to fight."]}, {"id": "E5.6.16", "lines": ["The noble counselor said long ago:", "‘No match for justice is an unjust foe.’"]}, {"id": "E5.6.17", "lines": ["Then seek the fight against this harmful king;", "For fire and water share no common spring."]}, {"id": "E5.6.18", "lines": ["If matters turn against us in the fight,", "The ancient sky may yet deny our might."]}, {"id": "E5.6.19", "lines": ["But if you yield your strength without a blow,", "And give up all you have before the foe,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.20", "lines": ["Will holy God not judge you for that shame?", "Will heroes spare your honor and your name?"]}, {"id": "E5.6.21", "lines": ["When ten thousand Iranian men lie dead,", "Will you turn back and waste the blood they shed?"]}, {"id": "E5.6.22", "lines": ["What will the spiteful say of you that day,", "If you turn back from foes and run away?"]}, {"id": "E5.6.23", "lines": ["When I rain arrows down on Saveh’s train,", "And make my bow a spring-cloud on the plain,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.24", "lines": ["When iron gorzes, swords, and spears are cast,", "And battle’s ranks surge roaring through the blast,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.25", "lines": ["If still no glimpse of triumph can be found,", "And fortune leaves our hearts in darkness bound,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.26", "lines": ["Then we shall yield him cities from our hand,", "And all we own, as fortunes then demand."]}, {"id": "E5.6.27", "lines": ["But let us struggle till the sky makes plain", "Whether it brings us victory or pain.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.28", "lines": ["The Shah smiled; all the court grew bright at this,", "And veterans left the presence full of bliss."]}, {"id": "E5.6.29", "lines": ["They spoke with Bahram, saying, “From this hour,", "Be modest when you speak before such power."]}, {"id": "E5.6.30", "lines": ["King Saveh’s troops so densely fill the way,", "Even ants and gnats would find no path by day."]}, {"id": "E5.6.31", "lines": ["Who, after such bold words, will dare to stand", "Before the king and take the troops in hand?”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.32", "lines": ["He answered, “Warriors of illustrious name,", "By our great Shah’s leave, I will claim that fame.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.33", "lines": ["Informants brought his answer to the throne,", "And told the Shah what Bahram had made known."]}, {"id": "E5.6.34", "lines": ["The king of kings rejoiced when this was heard,", "And fear of Saveh’s force no longer stirred."]}, {"id": "E5.6.35", "lines": ["He made Bahram the captain of the fight,", "And raised his valiant head to royal height."]}, {"id": "E5.6.36", "lines": ["All warriors who sought glory in the field", "Acclaimed him captain under royal shield."]}, {"id": "E5.6.37", "lines": ["He came before the king, his girdle tied,", "Prepared for war, yet steady in his stride."]}, {"id": "E5.6.38", "lines": ["He said, “By your leave, I shall call the roll,", "And read the fighting strength of every soul,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.39", "lines": ["To learn who seeks renown and who is slack,", "Who stands in war and who will turn his back.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.40", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “You are the leader here;", "The good and ill of war are yours to steer.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.41", "lines": ["The chief went to the royal muster-ground,", "And ordered all the troops to gather round."]}, {"id": "E5.6.42", "lines": ["He chose among them those of highest name,", "The crown of chiefs, the hardened men of fame."]}, {"id": "E5.6.43", "lines": ["He wrote twelve thousand on the fighting roll,", "Mail-clad, with bargostvan, of tested soul."]}, {"id": "E5.6.44", "lines": ["All those enrolled were forty years of age;", "He struck off youth and elder from the page."]}, {"id": "E5.6.45", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin held supreme command,", "Renowned in war, exacting, firm of hand."]}, {"id": "E5.6.46", "lines": ["He named Yalan-sina, fierce in will,", "To lead the foremost ranks with war’s hard skill."]}, {"id": "E5.6.47", "lines": ["On battle-days he was to ride ahead,", "Wheel round his steed, and rouse the troops he led."]}, {"id": "E5.6.48", "lines": ["He was to cry his lineage through the field,", "And rouse the warriors till their doubts would yield."]}, {"id": "E5.6.49", "lines": ["He charged Izad Gashasp, who drew no rein,", "To guard the camp-stores and the baggage train;"]}, {"id": "E5.6.50", "lines": ["Then Mardanshah, his brother, held the left,", "Bereft of fear, and in the saddle deft;"]}, {"id": "E5.6.51", "lines": ["While rightward, warlike kinsmen formed their row,", "Prepared to turn their lances on the foe."]}, {"id": "E5.6.52", "lines": ["Kanda Gashasp, who riding would not fail", "To seize the lion by its furious tail,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.53", "lines": ["He placed at the rear to guard the line,", "A man whose strength in danger still would shine."]}, {"id": "E5.6.54", "lines": ["Then to the troops the Pahlevan declared:", "“O ardent chiefs, be disciplined, prepared."]}, {"id": "E5.6.55", "lines": ["If you would have God’s help against the weight", "Of this dark work that gathers round our fate,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.56", "lines": ["Then do no harm, inflict no loss or ill,", "Nor arm yourselves for wrong or cruel will."]}, {"id": "E5.6.57", "lines": ["When through the night the karnay’s call is heard,", "Leap up at once, and spur without a word."]}, {"id": "E5.6.58", "lines": ["Then ride together, all with urgent speed,", "And raise a tumult, spurring every steed."]}, {"id": "E5.6.59", "lines": ["With rested horse and man, with strength renewed,", "Let no dread thought of battle-day intrude.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.60", "lines": ["When word of all Bahram had planned and wrought", "Had reached the king, he gloried in the thought."]}, {"id": "E5.6.61", "lines": ["He praised the plan and deeds that Bahram showed,", "And from his treasury the payments flowed."]}, {"id": "E5.6.62", "lines": ["He gave Bahram the arms from royal stores,", "And opened every armory’s guarded doors."]}, {"id": "E5.6.63", "lines": ["Within the city he assembled then", "The finest battle-steeds for chosen men."]}, {"id": "E5.6.64", "lines": ["He told the captain, “Name, without a pause,", "Whatever serves the war and royal cause."]}, {"id": "E5.6.65", "lines": ["You know all kinds of warfare by your art,", "And Saveh’s stores of arms in every part."]}, {"id": "E5.6.66", "lines": ["You know what wealth, what soldiers, and what arms", "That famous man can bring in war’s alarms."]}, {"id": "E5.6.67", "lines": ["His Turks will make earth quake upon the day", "Of battle, when their banners fill the way."]}, {"id": "E5.6.68", "lines": ["Yet from the troops you chose a mounted force", "Of just twelve thousand, armored man and horse."]}, {"id": "E5.6.69", "lines": ["I do not know how such a count can stand", "Against the force that darkens all the land."]}, {"id": "E5.6.70", "lines": ["And you chose men of forty years instead", "Of youthful swordsmen eager to be led.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.71", "lines": ["The chief replied, “O courteous Shah, attend;", "You know the words that ancient kings commend."]}, {"id": "E5.6.72", "lines": ["When Fortune lends her favor to your side,", "A little force may conquer far and wide."]}, {"id": "E5.6.73", "lines": ["By this same token I shall prove my view,", "If now the Shah will hear my counsel through."]}, {"id": "E5.6.74", "lines": ["When Kay Kavus in Hamavaran lay,", "In bonds with countless chiefs shut from the day,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.75", "lines": ["Then Rostam chose twelve thousand horsemen bold,", "And freed the Shah and peers from prison’s hold."]}, {"id": "E5.6.76", "lines": ["Again, great Gudarz, Keshvad’s noble son,", "The head of men whose glory had been won,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.77", "lines": ["Chose twelve thousand armored men to ride,", "And took revenge for Siavash when he died."]}, {"id": "E5.6.78", "lines": ["Again, brave Esfandiyar, fierce and strong,", "Led twelve thousand against Arjasp’s proud throng."]}, {"id": "E5.6.79", "lines": ["By stratagem he made the dust arise", "From fort and army underneath the skies."]}, {"id": "E5.6.80", "lines": ["When any force exceeds this counted might,", "It grows too large for dash and ordered fight."]}, {"id": "E5.6.81", "lines": ["The chief who leads too vast a fighting band", "Will lose his order as the lines expand."]}, {"id": "E5.6.82", "lines": ["As for your saying men of forty years", "Are less eager than youths with flashing spears,"]}, {"id": "E5.6.83", "lines": ["At forty, men have learned from trials past;", "Their courage, tested, holds them firm and fast."]}, {"id": "E5.6.84", "lines": ["He still remembers bread and salt, the seal", "Of loyalty that binds the true to steel."]}, {"id": "E5.6.85", "lines": ["He fears the voice of blame, the loss of name,", "And stands his ground lest flight should bring him shame."]}, {"id": "E5.6.86", "lines": ["Nor do his wife and child and household bind", "A veteran’s spirit or distract his mind."]}, {"id": "E5.6.87", "lines": ["A youth is fooled by outward show and flame;", "Where patience should be, rashness stakes its claim."]}, {"id": "E5.6.88", "lines": ["He has no wife or child, no fields to tend;", "He cannot weigh the worth of what men spend."]}, {"id": "E5.6.89", "lines": ["Since wisdom rests on trials men have passed,", "The young man lacks the judgment years amassed."]}, {"id": "E5.6.90", "lines": ["If he should conquer in some single fight,", "He laughs, and lingers in his own delight."]}, {"id": "E5.6.91", "lines": ["But if another chances to prevail,", "His foes will see his back and watch him fail.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.92", "lines": ["The king grew fresh as roses in the spring,", "And said, “Put on your jowshan; serve your king."]}, {"id": "E5.6.93", "lines": ["Depart the palace to the riding-ground;", "Let horse and weapon there with you be found.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.94", "lines": ["His helm and jowshan came at his command;", "He mounted, taking up his coiled kamand."]}, {"id": "E5.6.95", "lines": ["The Shah and all his wazirs then went out,", "With arrows, clubs, and polo-balls about."]}, {"id": "E5.6.96", "lines": ["Bahram came, jowshan-clad, in Roman helm;", "The Shah then blessed the guardian of the realm."]}, {"id": "E5.6.97", "lines": ["He kissed the earth before the royal seat,", "His homage to the king of kings complete."]}, {"id": "E5.6.98", "lines": ["Then came the violet dragon-banner bright,", "The flag of Rostam, borne in ancient fight."]}, {"id": "E5.6.99", "lines": ["The Shah bestowed it: “Take it from my hand;", "A second Rostam rises in the land.”"]}, {"id": "E5.6.100", "lines": ["Bahram then blessed the Shah and took his stand,", "The glorious banner under his command."]}, {"id": "E5.7.1", "lines": ["When dawn appeared above the mountain height,", "And like a shield the sun came into sight,"]}, {"id": "E5.7.2", "lines": ["The chief approached the palace of the king,", "And bowed before the throne, low worshipping."]}, {"id": "E5.7.3", "lines": ["He said, “I was a man of no great claim,", "Yet through your farr have won an honored name."]}, {"id": "E5.7.4", "lines": ["One favor I request from throne and crown:", "Send me a trusted man of sound renown."]}, {"id": "E5.7.5", "lines": ["Let him record each warrior in the fight,", "Who strikes a foeman down before his sight,"]}, {"id": "E5.7.6", "lines": ["And let their names throughout the world be known,", "Their fame through his account more widely sown.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.7", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Let wise Nastooh attend,", "To mark what deeds your warriors shall commend.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.8", "lines": ["He bade him go with Bahram to the field,", "To write each triumph on the battle-shield."]}, {"id": "E5.7.9", "lines": ["From Tisfoon all the army marched that day,", "With Bahram Chubin leading on the way."]}, {"id": "E5.7.10", "lines": ["A prudent, brave, and dauntless force he led;", "He watched them like a lion, keen and dread."]}, {"id": "E5.7.11", "lines": ["When he had gone, the monarch turned aside,", "And spoke in private with the priest beside."]}, {"id": "E5.7.12", "lines": ["He said, “On battle’s day this man will glow", "With joy; what do you think? I wish to know.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.13", "lines": ["The Mobad answered, “May your life be long;", "May you live on, forever hale and strong."]}, {"id": "E5.7.14", "lines": ["With such a frame and speech, he must attain", "Success, and make a barren world bear grain."]}, {"id": "E5.7.15", "lines": ["Yet still I fear that he will rise one day", "Against the lord whose favor paved his way."]}, {"id": "E5.7.16", "lines": ["How boldly he addressed you to your face,", "A lion speaking in your royal place.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.17", "lines": ["Hormizd replied, “Do not let doubt obscure", "Your judgment, mixing poison with the cure."]}, {"id": "E5.7.18", "lines": ["If he defeats King Saveh in the fight,", "The crown and throne would be his proper right."]}, {"id": "E5.7.19", "lines": ["May he remain as now, so full of grace;", "Such gifts would suit him in a sovereign’s place.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.20", "lines": ["The Mobad’s face grew pale; he bit his lip;", "The king retained that thought within his grip."]}, {"id": "E5.7.21", "lines": ["After a while he chose a courtier near,", "A confidant whose words rang true and clear."]}, {"id": "E5.7.22", "lines": ["He said, “Pursue the Pahlevan today,", "And tell me all you witness on the way.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.23", "lines": ["The agent followed swiftly, known to none,", "A reader of omens under moon and sun."]}, {"id": "E5.7.24", "lines": ["He often read the omens for the crown,", "And watched the road for signs that fate laid down."]}, {"id": "E5.7.25", "lines": ["As Bahram rode out from Tisfoon’s domain,", "He led his chosen force across the plain."]}, {"id": "E5.7.26", "lines": ["A seller with a basket came ahead,", "With sheep heads on its cloth for sale outspread."]}, {"id": "E5.7.27", "lines": ["A clean cloth lay across the basket’s rim;", "The seller bore it on in front of him."]}, {"id": "E5.7.28", "lines": ["The chieftain spurred his horse and lowered his spear,", "Then raised a sheep’s head high for all those near."]}, {"id": "E5.7.29", "lines": ["He bore it high before the army’s view,", "Then cast it down, convinced the sign was true."]}, {"id": "E5.7.30", "lines": ["He said, “Thus shall I sever Saveh’s head,", "And cast it where his army’s lines are spread."]}, {"id": "E5.7.31", "lines": ["So shall I shatter all his gathered pride,", "And scatter Saveh’s troops on every side.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.32", "lines": ["The Shah’s emissary read the omen too:", "“This favorite of fortune will break through."]}, {"id": "E5.7.33", "lines": ["When he has brought his warlike task to an end,", "Against the Shah himself his will shall bend.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.34", "lines": ["He told the Shah, who sank in grief and pain;", "His verdant leaf grew withered in that strain."]}, {"id": "E5.7.35", "lines": ["He called a young courtier and sent him fast,", "To reach the Pahlevan before night passed."]}, {"id": "E5.7.36", "lines": ["“Go tell the captain of the ranks from me:", "Remain in camp tonight by my decree."]}, {"id": "E5.7.37", "lines": ["At dawn turn back and come before me here;", "I need to speak with you, with no one near."]}, {"id": "E5.7.38", "lines": ["I shall dismiss all strangers from my sight;", "New counsel has occurred to me tonight.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.39", "lines": ["The messenger reached Bahram and conveyed", "The royal message from a Shah dismayed."]}, {"id": "E5.7.40", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Men do not, wise Shah, call", "An army back once marching, horse and all."]}, {"id": "E5.7.41", "lines": ["To turn us back would be an evil sign,", "And bring rejoicing to the foeman’s line."]}, {"id": "E5.7.42", "lines": ["I will return when victory crowns the way;", "Your realm and diadem will shine that day.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.43", "lines": ["The messenger returned before the king,", "And word for word reported everything."]}, {"id": "E5.7.44", "lines": ["The Shah accepted what the envoy said;", "The order to return was dropped instead."]}, {"id": "E5.7.45", "lines": ["At dawn the captain led the troops to ride,", "And called on God to be their shield and guide."]}, {"id": "E5.7.46", "lines": ["Toward Rey he led his troops with firm command;", "No soldier dared do damage to the land."]}, {"id": "E5.7.47", "lines": ["A woman bore a sack of straw for sale,", "And hurried through the troops along the trail."]}, {"id": "E5.7.48", "lines": ["A horseman bought the sack she brought that day,", "Then rode off with the straw and did not pay."]}, {"id": "E5.7.49", "lines": ["He rode away. She came in grief and shame,", "And stood before Bahram to state her claim:"]}, {"id": "E5.7.50", "lines": ["“I brought a sack of straw that should be sold;", "A horseman took the sack, but paid no gold."]}, {"id": "E5.7.51", "lines": ["He wore an iron helmet on his head;", "He took my goods and left,” the woman said."]}, {"id": "E5.7.52", "lines": ["They searched and found the culprit in the band,", "And brought him to the chief at his command."]}, {"id": "E5.7.53", "lines": ["Brave Bahram Chubin met him with a stare:", "“You thought your theft too small to warrant care?”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.54", "lines": ["Before the chief’s pavilion he was led;", "They crushed his hands and feet and smashed his head."]}, {"id": "E5.7.55", "lines": ["A khanjar cleft his body clean in two;", "Through every unjust heart a shudder flew."]}, {"id": "E5.7.56", "lines": ["Then from the chief’s pavilion came a cry,", "To warn the noble captains standing by:"]}, {"id": "E5.7.57", "lines": ["“O noble chiefs, attend the law I give:", "Who steals a straw shall not be left to live."]}, {"id": "E5.7.58", "lines": ["No man shall plead for him or bar his doom;", "My khanjar at his waist shall seal his tomb."]}, {"id": "E5.7.59", "lines": ["Let every man, with honest payment, buy", "The goods he needs to keep himself supplied.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.60", "lines": ["Bahram resumed his march with ordered train,", "And moved toward Damaghan across the plain."]}, {"id": "E5.7.61", "lines": ["The Shah feared Saveh’s elephants and might;", "And fear of Bahram troubled him by night."]}, {"id": "E5.7.62", "lines": ["One moonrise night he spoke to Barzin’s son,", "Kharrad, and said, “Prepare; this must be done."]}, {"id": "E5.7.63", "lines": ["Go to our enemy with watchful care;", "Do not sleep; ride as swift as moving air."]}, {"id": "E5.7.64", "lines": ["Mark all his troops, their number and degree,", "Their strength, their chiefs, and what their worth may be."]}, {"id": "E5.7.65", "lines": ["Learn who commands and who the champions are,", "What men among them shine in fame afar.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.66", "lines": ["He ordered that a letter of advice", "Be written, with rich presents of great price."]}, {"id": "E5.7.67", "lines": ["He said, “Proceed to Herat; if troops rise,", "Know Bahram leads the force before your eyes."]}, {"id": "E5.7.68", "lines": ["Approach him first and speak as I have told;", "Convey my blessings to that captain bold."]}, {"id": "E5.7.69", "lines": ["Then tell him, ‘I shall go and lay the bait;", "Keep hidden who you are, and lie in wait."]}, {"id": "E5.7.70", "lines": ["If Saveh hears your fame and name declared,", "His mind will grow suspicious and prepared."]}, {"id": "E5.7.71", "lines": ["And I will draw him toward your net with art,", "With fair, extended parley on my part.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.72", "lines": ["Kharrad, son of Barzin, made ready then,", "And left as ordered by the king of men."]}, {"id": "E5.7.73", "lines": ["He met with Bahram Chubin on the way,", "And gave the words the Shah bade him relay."]}, {"id": "E5.7.74", "lines": ["Then onward to King Saveh’s camp he went,", "Where troops, beasts, wealth, and elephants were pent."]}, {"id": "E5.7.75", "lines": ["He gained an audience and humbly bowed,", "And spoke with Saveh, far from all the crowd."]}, {"id": "E5.7.76", "lines": ["He used each argument and all his art", "To draw that army toward Herat’s heart."]}, {"id": "E5.7.77", "lines": ["When Saveh came and camped beside the stream,", "The outposts moved beneath the evening gleam."]}, {"id": "E5.7.78", "lines": ["They marked Bahram Chubin, firm in command,", "With troops drawn up upon the desert sand."]}, {"id": "E5.7.79", "lines": ["They hastened back and told King Saveh straight,", "“A force has reached the plain by Herat’s gate."]}, {"id": "E5.7.80", "lines": ["That army comes with pomp and proud display;", "Its forces now have reached us on their way.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.81", "lines": ["King Saveh, troubled, wondered what to do,", "Then summoned Hormizd’s envoy into view."]}, {"id": "E5.7.82", "lines": ["He railed, “You Ahriman of fraud and lies,", "Did you not fear the doom before your eyes?"]}, {"id": "E5.7.83", "lines": ["You came from that vile Shah to set a snare,", "And draw me where Iranian troops prepare."]}, {"id": "E5.7.84", "lines": ["You brought an army here to face my might,", "And pitched their tents at Herat for the fight.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.85", "lines": ["Kharrad, son of Barzin, answered then:", "“The force before you is a few stray men."]}, {"id": "E5.7.86", "lines": ["Take not its coming as an evil sign;", "Some frontier lord proceeds by his design."]}, {"id": "E5.7.87", "lines": ["Perhaps a chief seeks shelter and draws near,", "Or merchants with their escort now appear."]}, {"id": "E5.7.88", "lines": ["Who would confront you, lord of so much might,", "Though mountains turned to seas before the fight?"]}, {"id": "E5.7.89", "lines": ["I will send one to learn their chief’s intent,", "And why their forces to this place were sent.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.90", "lines": ["His words pleased Saveh, who at once replied,", "“In truth, this course is prudent and well tried."]}, {"id": "E5.7.91", "lines": ["We shall dispatch a scout to learn their name,", "And whether friend or foe directs their aim.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.92", "lines": ["Kharrad withdrew into his tent that night,", "As darkness veiled the mountain peaks from sight."]}, {"id": "E5.7.93", "lines": ["He made his preparations for the flight,", "To flee the coming wrath before the light."]}, {"id": "E5.7.94", "lines": ["At midnight Saveh sent Parmudeh out,", "His valiant son, to act as prince and scout;"]}, {"id": "E5.7.95", "lines": ["That thoughtful youth rode swiftly on his way,", "And reached the place where Iran’s army lay."]}, {"id": "E5.7.96", "lines": ["He sent a Pahlevan ahead to cry:", "“Who are these warriors camped beneath the sky?"]}, {"id": "E5.7.97", "lines": ["Who are your chiefs? What leader do you claim?", "Which champion among you bears great fame?"]}, {"id": "E5.7.98", "lines": ["Parmudeh, Saveh’s prince and darling, seeks", "The army’s chief, with whom he freely speaks.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.99", "lines": ["A warrior from Bahram’s army heard,", "And brought the captain every spoken word."]}, {"id": "E5.7.100", "lines": ["The captain left the camp-enclosure then;", "His banner rose above the gathered men."]}, {"id": "E5.7.101", "lines": ["Parmudeh saw him come, and spurred his horse,", "And rode in haste along the open course."]}, {"id": "E5.7.102", "lines": ["He asked, “Why halt? From where have you now fled?", "Estranged from Pars, you left; or so men said.”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.103", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “God keep such thought away;", "No vengeance on the Shah directs my way."]}, {"id": "E5.7.104", "lines": ["From Baghdad I have come at his command,", "To fight with all the warriors in my band."]}, {"id": "E5.7.105", "lines": ["When word of Saveh’s army reached the throne,", "The Shah gave orders I shall now make known:"]}, {"id": "E5.7.106", "lines": ["‘With arrows, gorzes, swords, and spears, attack;", "Go forth against their force and drive them back.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.7.107", "lines": ["Parmudeh then rode back and told his sire;", "Then Saveh sought the envoy in his ire."]}, {"id": "E5.7.108", "lines": ["They told him, “Kharrad fled.” The king replied,", "“How did that villain find a path outside?"]}, {"id": "E5.7.109", "lines": ["With countless troops around us in the night,", "How could our watchmen let him slip from sight?”"]}, {"id": "E5.8.1", "lines": ["Then Saveh sent to Bahram with command", "A fluent elder from his chosen band."]}, {"id": "E5.8.2", "lines": ["He said, “Tell that Iranian, ‘Do not stain", "Your reputation with a course so vain."]}, {"id": "E5.8.3", "lines": ["You know your king would have you meet your death;", "He sent you here to draw your final breath."]}, {"id": "E5.8.4", "lines": ["He bade you bar the road our armies tread;", "You heeded all the foolish things he said."]}, {"id": "E5.8.5", "lines": ["For with my troops and elephants in line,", "I trample mountains if their paths are mine.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.8.6", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin heard the envoy’s word,", "And smiled at all the hasty talk he heard."]}, {"id": "E5.8.7", "lines": ["He answered, “If the king desires my death,", "I serve him with my life and final breath."]}, {"id": "E5.8.8", "lines": ["I yield whatever pleases him to claim,", "Though earth should close above my buried name.”"]}, {"id": "E5.8.9", "lines": ["The envoy then returned to Saveh’s side,", "And told him what the warrior had replied."]}, {"id": "E5.8.10", "lines": ["Then Saveh said, “Return and ask him why", "He came to fight; what does he seek thereby?"]}, {"id": "E5.8.11", "lines": ["Let him ask what he wants of me; let all", "His wishes now be spoken, great or small.”"]}, {"id": "E5.8.12", "lines": ["The envoy went once more across the plain,", "And spoke to Bahram in his monarch’s strain:"]}, {"id": "E5.8.13", "lines": ["“Reveal the hidden purpose of your quest;", "My king’s star bids you honor his behest.”"]}, {"id": "E5.8.14", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Say, ‘If you seek the right,", "Seek no pretext to justify this fight."]}, {"id": "E5.8.15", "lines": ["If secret friendship with the Shah you seek,", "Come as my guest, and safely with me speak."]}, {"id": "E5.8.16", "lines": ["If peace, not havoc, moves your inward fire,", "Submit to what the laws of right require:"]}, {"id": "E5.8.17", "lines": ["Lay down your arms, surrender all your gear,", "And let your troops in humble guise appear."]}, {"id": "E5.8.18", "lines": ["Then ride to court, submissive at his gate,", "And kiss the royal threshold of the great;"]}, {"id": "E5.8.19", "lines": ["Our gracious Shah will grant you royal care,", "And robes of honor fit for you to wear."]}, {"id": "E5.8.20", "lines": ["If you seek friendship, he will grant you grace", "And greet you as befits your royal place."]}, {"id": "E5.8.21", "lines": ["But if you come for war, your course has led", "To seas where fierce nahangs fill all with dread."]}, {"id": "E5.8.22", "lines": ["I shall drive you from Herat in grief and shame;", "Your chiefs shall mourn the ruin of your name."]}, {"id": "E5.8.23", "lines": ["May wind and rain assail you on your track;", "May pits await you as you journey back."]}, {"id": "E5.8.24", "lines": ["Ill fortune brought you here to meet your doom,", "And seeks to send your head into the tomb.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.8.25", "lines": ["The envoy turned and hastened on his way,", "And told the king what Bahram had to say."]}, {"id": "E5.8.26", "lines": ["King Saveh, hearing Bahram’s bitter speech,", "Grew wrathful at the man beyond his reach."]}, {"id": "E5.8.27", "lines": ["That chilling answer set his heart aflame;", "His cheeks grew hot beneath the weight of shame."]}, {"id": "E5.8.28", "lines": ["He said, “Tell him, ‘You Div in human guise,", "No fame or joy could come from your demise."]}, {"id": "E5.8.29", "lines": ["Your Shah is but a servant at my gate;", "My lesser men exceed your low estate."]}, {"id": "E5.8.30", "lines": ["Forsake that cruel Shah, who seeks your head,", "Whose hands with noble blood are dyed so red!"]}, {"id": "E5.8.31", "lines": ["Join forces with my troops, and by my hand", "Receive the crown and scepter of your land:"]}, {"id": "E5.8.32", "lines": ["I shall bestow Iran upon your brow,", "If you renounce that faithless master now."]}, {"id": "E5.8.33", "lines": ["Why die for one whose heart is black with spite,", "And throw your precious life into the night?’”"]}, {"id": "E5.8.34", "lines": ["That proud king’s envoy came to Bahram’s place,", "And gave those biting words before his face."]}, {"id": "E5.8.35", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Conceal no word I say;", "Take all my answer back without delay."]}, {"id": "E5.8.36", "lines": ["Say: ‘I am low, you say; my humble name", "And lowly standing bring me only shame."]}, {"id": "E5.8.37", "lines": ["The king of kings was too august to ride", "In royal wrath against your swelling pride."]}, {"id": "E5.8.38", "lines": ["A man as mean as I now takes the field,", "With troops to make your royal kindred yield."]}, {"id": "E5.8.39", "lines": ["I shall cut off your head and send the king", "A prize too base upon a spear to bring."]}, {"id": "E5.8.40", "lines": ["For one as low as I to seek your grace", "Would bring you shame and tarnish your high place."]}, {"id": "E5.8.41", "lines": ["You shall not see me till we meet in fight,", "My violet dragon standard in your sight!"]}, {"id": "E5.8.42", "lines": ["That dragon marks your death; its stroke shall shred", "Your golden helm and cleanly cleave your head.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.9.1", "lines": ["King Saveh’s envoy heard those words of flame,", "Turned back, and told the king from whom they came."]}, {"id": "E5.9.2", "lines": ["The Turk king heard the envoy’s words of ire,", "And vengeance set his heart and head on fire."]}, {"id": "E5.9.3", "lines": ["He bade the tymbals thunder on the plain,", "And high-crested elephants lead the train."]}, {"id": "E5.9.4", "lines": ["The realm grew dark beneath the horses’ tread;", "The karnay’s cry through earth and heaven spread."]}, {"id": "E5.9.5", "lines": ["When Bahram heard that hostile force was near,", "Whose colors swept the plain from front to rear,"]}, {"id": "E5.9.6", "lines": ["In yellow, red, and black in silk displayed,", "He bade his warriors mount and stand arrayed."]}, {"id": "E5.9.7", "lines": ["He rode in armor, gorz prepared for fight;", "Behind him Herat, foes before his sight."]}, {"id": "E5.9.8", "lines": ["He formed the wings; the troops were made as one,", "One heart, one body underneath the sun."]}, {"id": "E5.9.9", "lines": ["The world seemed forged of armor, jowshans, light;", "The spearpoints shone like stars, so sharp and bright."]}, {"id": "E5.9.10", "lines": ["King Saveh viewed the field and its array,", "And saw his foe command the ground that day."]}, {"id": "E5.9.11", "lines": ["Herat stood at the back of Bahram’s force;", "Cramped ground denied the king a wider course."]}, {"id": "E5.9.12", "lines": ["He told the seasoned chiefs who gathered near:", "“A lying envoy drew our army here."]}, {"id": "E5.9.13", "lines": ["He tarried till their troops could take command", "Within the city, now beneath their hand."]}, {"id": "E5.9.14", "lines": ["He left me thorny scrub and narrow ground,", "A straitened field where all my ranks are bound.”"]}, {"id": "E5.9.15", "lines": ["He ranked his army in that narrow place;", "The air grew indigo, earth hid its face."]}, {"id": "E5.9.16", "lines": ["Full forty thousand horsemen held the right,", "With javelins and spears prepared for fight;"]}, {"id": "E5.9.17", "lines": ["The left held forty thousand, row on row,", "With bared blades burning to confront the foe;"]}, {"id": "E5.9.18", "lines": ["One hundred thousand held the center line,", "Where Saveh’s golden throne and banners shine."]}, {"id": "E5.9.19", "lines": ["Before the front, the elephants stood tall,", "And blocked the field, a living fortress wall;"]}, {"id": "E5.9.20", "lines": ["While crowded in the rear, the surplus mass", "Stood choked and useless in the narrow pass."]}, {"id": "E5.9.21", "lines": ["King Saveh grieved to see his army’s plight,", "Confined within a field so cramped and tight."]}, {"id": "E5.9.22", "lines": ["It seemed that Fortune turned against his reign,", "And sought to seize his throne upon that plain."]}, {"id": "E5.10.1", "lines": ["Again from Herat’s plain King Saveh chose", "A guileful warrior, skilled in fluent prose."]}, {"id": "E5.10.2", "lines": ["He came before Bahram with formal awe,", "And bore this message under Saveh’s law:"]}, {"id": "E5.10.3", "lines": ["“The Fortune of the heavens is not your friend;", "Will you not heed advice before the end?"]}, {"id": "E5.10.4", "lines": ["Make wisdom now your friend; lift inward eyes,", "And weigh the strength your chosen course defies."]}, {"id": "E5.10.5", "lines": ["You have found two whose equals on the earth", "Have never yet been born of royal birth."]}, {"id": "E5.10.6", "lines": ["They shine like suns that wheel the heavens round,", "And ever in their jowshans, armed, are found."]}, {"id": "E5.10.7", "lines": ["The first am I, the world’s true king by right;", "The next my son Parmudeh, high in might."]}, {"id": "E5.10.8", "lines": ["My troops outnumber leaves on every tree;", "No reckoner could number them for me."]}, {"id": "E5.10.9", "lines": ["My men and beasts outnumber drops of rain", "That fall from clouds of spring upon the plain."]}, {"id": "E5.10.10", "lines": ["My tents, enclosures, stores, and gear defeat", "The patient clerk who tallies sheet on sheet."]}, {"id": "E5.10.11", "lines": ["If you should count my steeds, my men, my lands,", "And mountain wilds beneath my royal hands,"]}, {"id": "E5.10.12", "lines": ["You would marvel. All kings fit for that name", "Are subject to my throne and royal claim."]}, {"id": "E5.10.13", "lines": ["If seas had life and mountains feet to roam,", "They could not bear my treasury from home."]}, {"id": "E5.10.14", "lines": ["Nor arms, nor goods, nor harvests of my toil,", "Could they remove from all my guarded soil."]}, {"id": "E5.10.15", "lines": ["The great of earth, except your Shah, acclaim", "Me king of kings and magnify my name."]}, {"id": "E5.10.16", "lines": ["Your life as well lies firmly in my hand;", "This much I know, and you should understand."]}, {"id": "E5.10.17", "lines": ["If I lead forth my troops in full array,", "No ant or gnat could find a path that day."]}, {"id": "E5.10.18", "lines": ["I own a thousand elephants, each one", "In bargostvan; their scent makes horsemen run."]}, {"id": "E5.10.19", "lines": ["Who comes from Iran or from Turan’s land", "To bring more trouble than I can withstand?"]}, {"id": "E5.10.20", "lines": ["From here until I stand at Tisfoon’s gate,", "My troops shall grow, their numbers no less great."]}, {"id": "E5.10.21", "lines": ["Some madman must have lured you to this place;", "You neither love yourself nor know disgrace."]}, {"id": "E5.10.22", "lines": ["Your eye does not distinguish good from ill;", "How can such folly suit a wise man’s will?"]}, {"id": "E5.10.23", "lines": ["Cease this contention; come before my throne,", "And you shall not stand friendless and unknown."]}, {"id": "E5.10.24", "lines": ["I shall grant office high, my daughter’s hand,", "A crown, and honor through my royal land."]}, {"id": "E5.10.25", "lines": ["Beside me you shall hold a high estate,", "And need no longer serve beneath the great."]}, {"id": "E5.10.26", "lines": ["When I have slain the Shah in open fight,", "And gained his crown and throne by sovereign right,"]}, {"id": "E5.10.27", "lines": ["His crown and throne shall pass into your hand,", "His treasure and the trappings of command."]}, {"id": "E5.10.28", "lines": ["Then I shall march on Rum, and leave to you", "That army and its gold and treasure too."]}, {"id": "E5.10.29", "lines": ["I speak for your own sake, because your skill", "In war has pleased my heart and royal will."]}, {"id": "E5.10.30", "lines": ["You know how armies form for battle day;", "Your father held command and knew their way."]}, {"id": "E5.10.31", "lines": ["My words are not mere courtesy or praise,", "But pity for the peril of your ways."]}, {"id": "E5.10.32", "lines": ["You have arrayed your puny force today", "Against my army; cast such thoughts away."]}, {"id": "E5.10.33", "lines": ["No further message will be sent to you,", "If you turn back from what I bid you do.”"]}, {"id": "E5.10.34", "lines": ["The envoy spoke; the chieftain heard him out,", "Then answered grimly, with no shade of doubt:"]}, {"id": "E5.10.35", "lines": ["“O man of evil mark, no king of worth", "Wins lasting fame through empty boasts on earth."]}, {"id": "E5.10.36", "lines": ["From all your speech, from opening to the end,", "On words alone, I see, your hopes depend."]}, {"id": "E5.10.37", "lines": ["The man whose day is ending seeks renown", "In words, not deeds, before his sun goes down."]}, {"id": "E5.10.38", "lines": ["I heard your idle words with growing dread;", "My heart grew fearful of the harm ahead."]}, {"id": "E5.10.39", "lines": ["You say, ‘The Shah shall die, and I shall bring", "His realm and throne to you, and Fortune’s spring.’"]}, {"id": "E5.10.40", "lines": ["A chief once said, ‘Drive beggars from their town;", "They claim elsewhere its lordship and renown."]}, {"id": "E5.10.41", "lines": ["They boast: “I was the ruler of that realm;", "Its folk obeyed me, and I held the helm.”’"]}, {"id": "E5.10.42", "lines": ["In this affair, before two suns have fled,", "I shall send to the Shah your severed head."]}, {"id": "E5.10.43", "lines": ["Upon a spear the bleeding head shall ride;", "The Shah shall see the end of all your pride."]}, {"id": "E5.10.44", "lines": ["As for your daughter, treasure, realm you own,", "I might have thanked you had your gifts been shown"]}, {"id": "E5.10.45", "lines": ["In friendship, not in schemes against our state,", "Or plots against the Shah and royal fate."]}, {"id": "E5.10.46", "lines": ["You might have sent your daughter and your store", "From your adorned and splendid palace door."]}, {"id": "E5.10.47", "lines": ["Then I in Iran would have been your friend,", "Not one who brings your warriors to their end."]}, {"id": "E5.10.48", "lines": ["My lance has reached your ear; my khanjar’s blade", "Will take your head, despite the boasts you made."]}, {"id": "E5.10.49", "lines": ["When you are gone, your head, your crown, your gold,", "Your daughter, toil, and treasure I shall hold."]}, {"id": "E5.10.50", "lines": ["You boast of countless crowns and thrones you claim,", "Of elephants and horsemen in your name."]}, {"id": "E5.10.51", "lines": ["A chief once said, ‘The faster runs the hound,", "The farther from the water he is found.’"]}, {"id": "E5.10.52", "lines": ["The Divs misled your heart and brought you here", "To fight the Shah with neither shame nor fear."]}, {"id": "E5.10.53", "lines": ["Beneath God’s chastisement your heart shall quake", "For all the evil deeds you undertake."]}, {"id": "E5.10.54", "lines": ["You say, ‘The greatest crowned kings must kneel,", "And every city trembles at my heel."]}, {"id": "E5.10.55", "lines": ["The age bears witness to the realm I claim.’", "The roads to cities serve all men the same."]}, {"id": "E5.10.56", "lines": ["Both king and servant freely take the road;", "The way lies open to the same abode."]}, {"id": "E5.10.57", "lines": ["But knock upon the city-gate and see:", "A land of thorns is all your realm shall be."]}, {"id": "E5.10.58", "lines": ["You speak of pity, as if I were weak,", "And lacked the valor seasoned warriors seek!"]}, {"id": "E5.10.59", "lines": ["No pity will you find before my spear,", "Nor boast of armies when my ranks draw near."]}, {"id": "E5.10.60", "lines": ["Your troops, your court, your elephants, your throne;", "I count them nothing when my strength is shown."]}, {"id": "E5.10.61", "lines": ["Though you are king, such falsehoods dim your light;", "No royal glory shines through such a blight."]}, {"id": "E5.10.62", "lines": ["I give you, Saveh, two days now to wait;", "When the world’s luster opens heaven’s gate,"]}, {"id": "E5.10.63", "lines": ["Iran’s whole army shall behold your head", "Raised on a spear when all your blood is shed.”"]}, {"id": "E5.10.64", "lines": ["The envoy turned, his face a pallid hue;", "His youthful Fortune aged as he withdrew."]}, {"id": "E5.10.65", "lines": ["He told King Saveh what he had to say;", "The monarch’s face turned black with fresh dismay."]}, {"id": "E5.10.66", "lines": ["Parmudeh said, “Why plead in such despair?", "Those meager troops deserve no fear or care!”"]}, {"id": "E5.10.67", "lines": ["He reached the entrance of the camp and cried", "For bells and gongs and elephants outside."]}, {"id": "E5.10.68", "lines": ["The kousts resounded, booming deep and loud,", "Till heaven itself seemed black beneath the cloud."]}, {"id": "E5.10.69", "lines": ["While that famed youth made ready for the fight,", "The king feared Bahram and his martial might."]}, {"id": "E5.10.70", "lines": ["He told his son, “Our chosen warrior, stay;", "Begin no battle till the break of day.”"]}, {"id": "E5.10.71", "lines": ["Both armies drew apart; the watches spread,", "While fires burned bright and whispered rumors sped."]}, {"id": "E5.11.1", "lines": ["Alone within his tent, he sent to call", "Iran’s great sepahbods for counsel, all."]}, {"id": "E5.11.2", "lines": ["Within his tent he took advice for fight,", "Until both armies slept beneath the night."]}, {"id": "E5.11.3", "lines": ["The world lay still for any man to take,", "Yet Bahram’s warlike thoughts remained awake."]}, {"id": "E5.11.4", "lines": ["While sleeping in his tent, that lion saw", "The Turks advance with battle’s iron law."]}, {"id": "E5.11.5", "lines": ["His troops were routed; barred from flight or aid,", "He begged for life, on foot, alone, afraid."]}, {"id": "E5.11.6", "lines": ["He woke in grief, his noble head oppressed,", "And passed the dark with pain within his breast."]}, {"id": "E5.11.7", "lines": ["He told no man the terror of his dream;", "His heart held sorrow like a hidden stream."]}, {"id": "E5.11.8", "lines": ["Just then came Kharrad, Barzin’s wary heir,", "From Turkish camp with words he would declare."]}, {"id": "E5.11.9", "lines": ["He said, “What confidence is this you show?", "Behold the snare of Ahriman below."]}, {"id": "E5.11.10", "lines": ["Do not cast Iran’s brave lives to fate unkind;", "Treat these great nobles with a prudent mind."]}, {"id": "E5.11.11", "lines": ["For valor’s sake, have pity on your life;", "No man has faced the like of such a strife.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.12", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “In your Gilan, we know,", "Men traffic fish through summer’s heat and snow;"]}, {"id": "E5.11.13", "lines": ["Your folk know only reeds and waters damp,", "Unfit to counsel champions in their camp!"]}, {"id": "E5.11.14", "lines": ["You are no man for spear or gorz in war,", "Nor bow or shaft when battle’s thunders roar."]}, {"id": "E5.11.15", "lines": ["When sun climbs those dark mountains into sight,", "I shall show how kings and warriors fight.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.16", "lines": ["When Sol from Leo rose and whitened air,", "The karnay sounded through the morning glare."]}, {"id": "E5.11.17", "lines": ["The battle-cry went up; earth shook below", "The horses’ hoofs as armies faced the foe."]}, {"id": "E5.11.18", "lines": ["Bahram arrayed his ranks, then mounted high,", "And grasped a war-worn gorz beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "E5.11.19", "lines": ["He placed three thousand veterans on the right,", "All mail-clad warriors of tested might."]}, {"id": "E5.11.20", "lines": ["An equal force he sent upon the left,", "Vengeful horsemen, bold and battle-deft."]}, {"id": "E5.11.21", "lines": ["Izad Gashasp, who rode through rivers, led", "The right, where many spears were lifted red."]}, {"id": "E5.11.22", "lines": ["Kanda Gashasp, who held the leftward line,", "Served Azargashasp’s holy fire and shrine."]}, {"id": "E5.11.23", "lines": ["Yalan-sina supported both with might,", "A firm reserve prepared to join the fight."]}, {"id": "E5.11.24", "lines": ["Hamdan Gashasp held firm the center’s ground;", "His horseshoes fired the reeds with every bound."]}, {"id": "E5.11.25", "lines": ["With each there stood three thousand, jowshans dressed,", "Stone-hearted Pahlevans who met each test."]}, {"id": "E5.11.26", "lines": ["Then proclamation rang across the field:", "“O golden-crowned chiefs, stand firm; do not yield."]}, {"id": "E5.11.27", "lines": ["Who flees the fight, though lion should appear,", "Or leopard block his path and rouse his fear,"]}, {"id": "E5.11.28", "lines": ["By God, I shall behead him, burn his frame,", "And leave his lifeless body to the flame.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.29", "lines": ["Two paths of flight lay open in the rear;", "Both roads he blocked with earthen ramparts sheer:"]}, {"id": "E5.11.30", "lines": ["Ten rash in height he raised them, steep and tight,", "To bar his own Iranians from all flight."]}, {"id": "E5.11.31", "lines": ["The royal scribe drew near, aghast and pale:", "“This madness makes our very courage fail!"]}, {"id": "E5.11.32", "lines": ["Among these troops we are one white hair shown", "Upon a sable ox, exposed, alone."]}, {"id": "E5.11.33", "lines": ["No soil, no hill, no stream is seen at all;", "Turanian swordsmen darken field and wall.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.34", "lines": ["Bahram cried, furious, “Coward at heart,", "Your ink and paper are your proper art."]}, {"id": "E5.11.35", "lines": ["Who bade you count the foemen’s force today,", "Or measure what the sword will sweep away?”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.36", "lines": ["The scribe sought Kharrad, saying, “In his pride,", "Bahram has none but Div to be his guide.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.37", "lines": ["The scribes then sought some path by which to flee,", "So they need not behold the doom to be."]}, {"id": "E5.11.38", "lines": ["They feared both Bahram and the king of kings,", "And bit their lips at what the battle brings."]}, {"id": "E5.11.39", "lines": ["A steep height rose beside the battlefield;", "They climbed in fear, to see what it revealed."]}, {"id": "E5.11.40", "lines": ["“We must observe their ranks,” they said in dread,", "And watched the helm that crowned Bahram’s proud head."]}, {"id": "E5.11.41", "lines": ["Then Bahram, when his ranks were set in place,", "Withdrew from camp and fell upon his face."]}, {"id": "E5.11.42", "lines": ["Before his God, he cried aloud in dust,", "“O righteous Judge, whose every doom is just,"]}, {"id": "E5.11.43", "lines": ["If this my conflict is unjust to You,", "And Saveh’s cause is truer in Your view,"]}, {"id": "E5.11.44", "lines": ["Then calm my heart within this battle’s roar,", "And grant him triumph over us in war."]}, {"id": "E5.11.45", "lines": ["But if I toil and strive at Your command,", "And risk my head in battle as I stand,"]}, {"id": "E5.11.46", "lines": ["Make me and all my troops rejoice in peace;", "Let warfare’s torment through the whole world cease.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.47", "lines": ["Still praying loudly, he arose foursquare,", "His ox-head gorz raised high in morning air."]}, {"id": "E5.11.48", "lines": ["King Saveh cried, “Begin your spells and art,", "To cloud Iranian eyes and quell each heart."]}, {"id": "E5.11.49", "lines": ["Let no disaster fall upon our own;", "Let all their courage fail, their ranks be thrown.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.50", "lines": ["The sorcerers began their spells in air,", "And hurled wild fire through the murky glare."]}, {"id": "E5.11.51", "lines": ["A wind arose; a black cloud filled the sky,", "And rained its arrows on the troops nearby."]}, {"id": "E5.11.52", "lines": ["Bahram exclaimed, “Chiefs, nobles, men of war,", "Do not heed spells or fear their empty roar."]}, {"id": "E5.11.53", "lines": ["Come on in anger. This is nothing true", "But trick and sorcery brought forth for you."]}, {"id": "E5.11.54", "lines": ["The men who use such means deserve our tears;", "Stand firm in arms and cast aside your fears.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.55", "lines": ["The Iranians shouted, heated for the fight,", "While Saveh watched the field from left to right."]}, {"id": "E5.11.56", "lines": ["He saw the foe recoil not from his art,", "But press on harder with courageous heart."]}, {"id": "E5.11.57", "lines": ["Then Saveh led his troops against their flank,", "Like wolves on lambs, and shattered rank on rank."]}, {"id": "E5.11.58", "lines": ["He broke the left and charged against the core", "Of Bahram’s army with a mighty roar."]}, {"id": "E5.11.59", "lines": ["When Bahram saw his soldiers flee the foe,", "He spurred his steed to strike three warriors low."]}, {"id": "E5.11.60", "lines": ["He hurled them from their saddles to the ground,", "Then cried aloud to all the troops around:"]}, {"id": "E5.11.61", "lines": ["“This is the way to fight, this is the mode;", "Why bend in shame beneath the battle’s load?"]}, {"id": "E5.11.62", "lines": ["No shame before Yazdan, who rules the earth,", "The chiefs, and nobles of illustrious birth?”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.63", "lines": ["Then like a hungry lion in his might,", "He wheeled against the enemy’s strong right."]}, {"id": "E5.11.64", "lines": ["He broke the mighty force before his eyes;", "Its leader’s banner vanished from the skies."]}, {"id": "E5.11.65", "lines": ["Then to his army’s center he withdrew,", "Where stood his generals with their ranks in view."]}, {"id": "E5.11.66", "lines": ["He said, “A curse upon this stubborn strife;", "Prolonged contention robs us of our life!"]}, {"id": "E5.11.67", "lines": ["Look out and find in which direction lies", "A path of safe retreat before our eyes.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.68", "lines": ["They searched for some escape, but none lay clear;", "No road would let them leave the fighting here."]}, {"id": "E5.11.69", "lines": ["Then Bahram said, “An iron wall is reared;", "The brave will breach the wall the craven feared."]}, {"id": "E5.11.70", "lines": ["Whoever breaks that wall and wins a way", "May carry life to Iran from this fray."]}, {"id": "E5.11.71", "lines": ["Set all your hearts on battle; overhead", "Raise shields, and wield your khanjars as you tread."]}, {"id": "E5.11.72", "lines": ["If sleepless Fortune pays us for our pains,", "Our toil shall bring us thrones and sovereign reigns."]}, {"id": "E5.11.73", "lines": ["Let none despair of God, lest you behold", "Your white day blackened and your courage cold.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.74", "lines": ["King Saveh cried, “Bring elephants ahead,", "And make the field for foes a road of dread."]}, {"id": "E5.11.75", "lines": ["Attack in force; drive hard against the foe,", "And crush their ranks beneath each heavy blow.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.76", "lines": ["Bahram from far beheld the beasts appear,", "And grief and anger struck his heart with fear."]}, {"id": "E5.11.77", "lines": ["He drew his sword and called, “Now string your bows,", "Your bows of Chakh, to meet these mighty foes."]}, {"id": "E5.11.78", "lines": ["Put helmets on. By life and royal head", "Of our great Shah, whose fame is widely spread,"]}, {"id": "E5.11.79", "lines": ["Let every man with bow and shaft in hand", "Draw tight and hold his station where we stand."]}, {"id": "E5.11.80", "lines": ["Let each man lodge three shafts with deadly blows", "Within a trunk, then turn upon the foes."]}, {"id": "E5.11.81", "lines": ["Then out with gorzes; press into the fight,", "And slay your foes beneath victorious light.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.82", "lines": ["The chieftain strung his bow and set his helm;", "The steel casque flashed on him who kept the realm."]}, {"id": "E5.11.83", "lines": ["He made his bow a spring-cloud full of rain,", "And showered arrows thick across the plain."]}, {"id": "E5.11.84", "lines": ["The soldiers followed; pointed shafts took flight,", "And feathered arrows dimmed the stars from sight."]}, {"id": "E5.11.85", "lines": ["They pierced the beasts’ trunks, and the stricken ground", "Became a pool of blood, with slain around."]}, {"id": "E5.11.86", "lines": ["The elephants, in anguish, turned and fled,", "And trampled down their own troops as they sped."]}, {"id": "E5.11.87", "lines": ["The troops of Iran followed close behind;", "The earth became a Nile no bank confined."]}, {"id": "E5.11.88", "lines": ["Confusion ruled, and many warriors died;", "Ill fortune crushed the Turkish army’s pride."]}, {"id": "E5.11.89", "lines": ["Behind the stricken troops there lay a place,", "Pleasant, adorned for Saveh’s royal grace."]}, {"id": "E5.11.90", "lines": ["There, on a golden throne, fierce Saveh stayed,", "And watched his broken army flee dismayed."]}, {"id": "E5.11.91", "lines": ["He saw his iron mountain flee in gloom,", "Heads full of dust, souls marching into doom."]}, {"id": "E5.11.92", "lines": ["Behind them the stampeding beasts came on,", "And trampled troops until their hope was gone."]}, {"id": "E5.11.93", "lines": ["He wept. Why should his army flee the plain?", "Then mounted his bay Arab in deep pain."]}, {"id": "E5.11.94", "lines": ["He fled in fear. Bahram pursued his flight,", "Like a wild elephant in maddened might."]}, {"id": "E5.11.95", "lines": ["A kamand on his arm, his bow in hand,", "He shouted to his troops across the land:"]}, {"id": "E5.11.96", "lines": ["“Ill fate has marked them; let your arrows rain!", "Ride on with swords, and reap them down like grain."]}, {"id": "E5.11.97", "lines": ["Acquit yourselves as Pahlevans in fight;", "Let none among you turn his back in flight.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.98", "lines": ["He reached the hill where Saveh held his state,", "Where he had sat enthroned before this fate."]}, {"id": "E5.11.99", "lines": ["He saw him fleeing on his Arab steed", "Across the desert at a headlong speed."]}, {"id": "E5.11.100", "lines": ["He chose a shaft whose point shone clear and keen,", "Four eagle feathers on its length were seen."]}, {"id": "E5.11.101", "lines": ["He took his Chakh bow in his practiced hand,", "And set his thumb against the deer-hide band."]}, {"id": "E5.11.102", "lines": ["He straightened his left arm and bent his right;", "The bowstring thundered as the shaft took flight."]}, {"id": "E5.11.103", "lines": ["It pierced King Saveh’s spine; he toppled down,", "Headlong to dust, with blood beneath his crown."]}, {"id": "E5.11.104", "lines": ["The crowned king, from his army swept away,", "Left bare his golden throne at break of day."]}, {"id": "E5.11.105", "lines": ["Such deeds the turning sky performs below,", "Showing no love, nor hate for friend or foe."]}, {"id": "E5.11.106", "lines": ["Fear most when seated on the loftiest throne;", "Disaster comes when safety seems your own."]}, {"id": "E5.11.107", "lines": ["The brave Bahram came on and dragged the dead", "Face-down through dust, then severed Saveh’s head."]}, {"id": "E5.11.108", "lines": ["None of the gathered men came to his aid;", "No one approached him where the king was laid."]}, {"id": "E5.11.109", "lines": ["When Turks beheld his corpse beside the road,", "Their frantic wailing shook the world’s abode."]}, {"id": "E5.11.110", "lines": ["Then Saveh’s son said, “Fate has willed it so;", "Bahram’s bright fortune lays our army low.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.111", "lines": ["Multitudes died in straits and broken ways;", "The elephants crushed men in a bloody maze."]}, {"id": "E5.11.112", "lines": ["Not one in ten escaped the routed side;", "Some crushed, some headless, all their glory died."]}, {"id": "E5.11.113", "lines": ["When nine long spans of that grim day were done,", "No living foe remained beneath the sun,"]}, {"id": "E5.11.114", "lines": ["Save captives bound and pierced in soul and frame,", "By grief and shafts, stripped of their former fame."]}, {"id": "E5.11.115", "lines": ["The road was strewn with armor, helms, and bows,", "With blades from Hind and bodies of their foes."]}, {"id": "E5.11.116", "lines": ["Earth was a sea of blood where corpses lay,", "And riderless steeds wandered far away."]}, {"id": "E5.11.117", "lines": ["Bahram then searched the slaughtered field with dread,", "To learn which men of Iran now lay dead."]}, {"id": "E5.11.118", "lines": ["He said to Kharrad, “Give your aid, and learn", "Which of our men will nevermore return.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.119", "lines": ["Kharrad went through the tents and searched the ground;", "One pious warrior nowhere could be found."]}, {"id": "E5.11.120", "lines": ["A chieftain named Bahram, a fearless one,", "A noble prince in valor matched by none,"]}, {"id": "E5.11.121", "lines": ["Was of Siavash’s line, a warrior known", "Throughout Iran for valor of his own."]}, {"id": "E5.11.122", "lines": ["Half-mad with grief, Kharrad went forth to trace", "The warrior’s path through death’s disfigured place."]}, {"id": "E5.11.123", "lines": ["He moved the slain and wounded forms aside,", "Yet found no sign of him in battle’s tide."]}, {"id": "E5.11.124", "lines": ["The army’s captain grieved aloud and cried,", "“Alas, wise warrior, where do you abide?”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.125", "lines": ["But then the man appeared; his welcome sight", "Unlocked the captain’s heart to fresh delight."]}, {"id": "E5.11.126", "lines": ["He brought a ruddy, cat-eyed Turk in tow,", "Whose angry heart betrayed a sullen glow."]}, {"id": "E5.11.127", "lines": ["Bahram cried, seeing him, “May dust not be", "Your bride; may victory keep your spirit free.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.128", "lines": ["Then to that foul Turk, “Hell-visaged man,", "Banned from Paradise, declare your clan."]}, {"id": "E5.11.129", "lines": ["What is your name and birth? Speak what you are;", "Your mother shall have cause to mourn afar.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.130", "lines": ["He said, “I am a warlock; I do not deal", "In manly arms or strength of sharpened steel."]}, {"id": "E5.11.131", "lines": ["I aid the sepahbods when troubles grow;", "My dreams disturb the calmest hearts I know."]}, {"id": "E5.11.132", "lines": ["I gave you that ill dream to harm your head;", "I should have sought more potent means instead."]}, {"id": "E5.11.133", "lines": ["My sorcery has failed; ill fortune tossed", "My labor to the wind, and all is lost."]}, {"id": "E5.11.134", "lines": ["Grant quarter, and you gain in me a friend,", "Accomplished in all arts from end to end.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.135", "lines": ["Bahram considered, troubled at the thought:", "“This man might help us when a war is fought.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.136", "lines": ["Then said, “What profit had King Saveh gained", "From this dark dealer, though his magic reigned?"]}, {"id": "E5.11.137", "lines": ["All good descends from God on favored men.”", "He ordered that they slay the warlock then."]}, {"id": "E5.11.138", "lines": ["They killed the man as Bahram had decreed;", "His lifeless form could do no further deed."]}, {"id": "E5.11.139", "lines": ["Bahram stood up and said, “O Judge of all,", "From You come triumph, glory, rise, and fall."]}, {"id": "E5.11.140", "lines": ["High place and diadems beneath the sky,", "Distress and triumph come from You on high."]}, {"id": "E5.11.141", "lines": ["Blest is the man who walks Your righteous way!”", "The chief scribe came with praise for him that day."]}, {"id": "E5.11.142", "lines": ["He said, “Fereydoon never saw your peer,", "Nor Bahram, nor Anooshirvan, far or near."]}, {"id": "E5.11.143", "lines": ["O mighty Pahlevan, in you combine", "A lion’s courage, counsel, and design."]}, {"id": "E5.11.144", "lines": ["May no calamity draw near your breath;", "Through you Iran’s towns live secure from death."]}, {"id": "E5.11.145", "lines": ["The Pahlevans all serve you, and your shield", "Keeps every man from harm upon the field."]}, {"id": "E5.11.146", "lines": ["A chieftain born of chieftains, honored, great,", "Blessed is your mother for her happy fate."]}, {"id": "E5.11.147", "lines": ["Your birth is blessed, and blessed the steps you take;", "Farr, wisdom, fortune follow in your wake.”"]}, {"id": "E5.11.148", "lines": ["Then all the Shah’s great Pahlevans arose;", "The gathered nobles went to their repose."]}, {"id": "E5.12.1", "lines": ["When night had curled its locks and veiled the sky,", "And sleep had closed the world’s exhausted eye,"]}, {"id": "E5.12.2", "lines": ["The tabira grew still; rest held the field,", "While heaven’s turning wheel its course revealed."]}, {"id": "E5.12.3", "lines": ["Through deepest night the wheel pursued its way,", "Until the golden vessel rose with day."]}, {"id": "E5.12.4", "lines": ["Then men awoke as sleep released its hold;", "The captain summoned all his comrades bold."]}, {"id": "E5.12.5", "lines": ["He said, “Behead the chiefs among the slain,", "The bold war-Pahlevans of Turan’s plain."]}, {"id": "E5.12.6", "lines": ["Each leader of the folk and captain dead", "Shall have his banner flaunting near his head."]}, {"id": "E5.12.7", "lines": ["Set flags behind the heads of those who wore", "The diadems of warriors before.”"]}, {"id": "E5.12.8", "lines": ["He gathered mules to bear the heads away,", "And took them from the field where corpses lay."]}, {"id": "E5.12.9", "lines": ["Then called a scribe and spoke at length of all:", "The countless troops, the battle’s rise and fall,"]}, {"id": "E5.12.10", "lines": ["The movements, chances, stratagems of war,", "And all the toil and hardship that he bore."]}, {"id": "E5.12.11", "lines": ["He told of warfare waged by Iran’s men,", "And how no horseman loosed his belt till then."]}, {"id": "E5.12.12", "lines": ["When he had written to the Shah, he chose", "A courier from the troops to bear his prose."]}, {"id": "E5.12.13", "lines": ["He set King Saveh’s head upon a spear,", "A sign of victory made stark and clear."]}, {"id": "E5.12.14", "lines": ["He bade them bear that monarch’s standard too,", "And heads of chiefs from Chin and Turan’s crew."]}, {"id": "E5.12.15", "lines": ["On beasts of burden all were borne away,", "To reach the Shah with speed and no delay."]}, {"id": "E5.12.16", "lines": ["The prisoners and every captured thing", "He kept in Herat for the world’s great king;"]}, {"id": "E5.12.17", "lines": ["While chosen riders rode with watchful sight,", "To guard the grisly trophies day and night."]}, {"id": "E5.12.18", "lines": ["They were to seek the Shah’s express command", "To march against Prince Parmudeh’s own band."]}, {"id": "E5.12.19", "lines": ["A guide rode out before them on the road;", "The Pahlevans rode with their grisly load."]}, {"id": "E5.12.20", "lines": ["They hastened, longing soon to reach the king,", "And greetings from Bahram and chiefs to bring."]}, {"id": "E5.12.21", "lines": ["The Turks withdrew, bereft of arms and steed,", "With neither gear nor baggage for their need."]}, {"id": "E5.12.22", "lines": ["Chin’s men and Turan’s horsemen turned away,", "Back to Turan in grief and deep dismay."]}, {"id": "E5.12.23", "lines": ["When tidings reached Parmudeh, low he bowed", "His stricken head, and wept before the crowd."]}, {"id": "E5.12.24", "lines": ["A grievous wail rose from the Turkish side;", "That bitter day saw every hope denied."]}, {"id": "E5.12.25", "lines": ["Their heads were filled with dust, their eyes with tears;", "None ate or slept amid those stricken peers."]}, {"id": "E5.12.26", "lines": ["He called his warriors, weeping in despair:", "“Why did our countless troops so poorly fare?"]}, {"id": "E5.12.27", "lines": ["How could they fail upon the battle-day?”", "A counselor replied in grief this way:"]}, {"id": "E5.12.28", "lines": ["“We thought the foe was weak, yet none in fight", "Can match Bahram in courage or in might."]}, {"id": "E5.12.29", "lines": ["For every hundred warriors we could show,", "He had not even one to meet the blow."]}, {"id": "E5.12.30", "lines": ["Not one among his troops received a scar;", "God raised him high and blessed his rising star."]}, {"id": "E5.12.31", "lines": ["I could say more, but you have heard enough.”", "Parmudeh brooded, sullen, dark, and rough."]}, {"id": "E5.12.32", "lines": ["Within his wounded heart new anger burned,", "And he once more to thoughts of battle turned."]}, {"id": "E5.12.33", "lines": ["A hundred thousand fighting men remained,", "Renowned and battle-hardened, fully trained."]}, {"id": "E5.12.34", "lines": ["He struck his camp; his columns took the road", "To Jihun’s bank, where its broad waters flowed."]}, {"id": "E5.12.35", "lines": ["Within Avaza’s fort he barred the gate,", "And in that stronghold nursed his burning hate."]}, {"id": "E5.12.36", "lines": ["Meanwhile Bahram’s letter reached the throne", "Of Shah Hormizd, to make his triumph known."]}, {"id": "E5.12.37", "lines": ["Hormizd sat with his nobles in the hall,", "And spoke his anxious thoughts before them all:"]}, {"id": "E5.12.38", "lines": ["“For two whole weeks we have received no word", "Of Bahram’s deeds; no tidings have been heard."]}, {"id": "E5.12.39", "lines": ["What counsel have you? What should we decide?”", "Just then the chamberlain came to his side."]}, {"id": "E5.12.40", "lines": ["He passed the gate and cried before the crowd:", "“May Shah Hormizd rejoice, serene and proud!"]}, {"id": "E5.12.41", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin has triumphed in the fight,", "And Saveh’s fall has crowned Iran with light.”"]}, {"id": "E5.12.42", "lines": ["The Shah called Bahram’s envoy to the throne,", "And seated him above the chiefs well known."]}, {"id": "E5.12.43", "lines": ["He asked of Bahram’s health, and how they fared,", "The battle-proven men whom war had spared."]}, {"id": "E5.12.44", "lines": ["The envoy said, “Exalted Shah, the day", "Went as you wished; may joy attend your way."]}, {"id": "E5.12.45", "lines": ["Your enemy’s bright fortune now is dead;", "His crown has fallen from his royal head."]}, {"id": "E5.12.46", "lines": ["King Saveh’s head is raised before your gate;", "His younger son has shared his father’s fate."]}, {"id": "E5.12.47", "lines": ["His father called him Faghfoor; both appear", "Before your gate, each raised upon a spear.”"]}, {"id": "E5.12.48", "lines": ["The king rose quickly, bowed, and, standing, raised", "His voice to God, and thus the Maker praised:"]}, {"id": "E5.12.49", "lines": ["“O righteous Guide, who shaped the moon and sun,", "You have destroyed our foes and victory won."]}, {"id": "E5.12.50", "lines": ["Great was my wretchedness and my despair", "When that foe rushed upon us unaware."]}, {"id": "E5.12.51", "lines": ["No chieftain and no force achieved this deed;", "God’s goodness came to help His slave in need.”"]}, {"id": "E5.12.52", "lines": ["From treasures left him by his father’s care,", "He brought a hundred thousand coins to share."]}, {"id": "E5.12.53", "lines": ["One third he gave in largess to the poor,", "And much to servants, loyal, tried, and sure."]}, {"id": "E5.12.54", "lines": ["One third went to the fire-temples and priests,", "To keep their holy rites and solemn feasts."]}, {"id": "E5.12.55", "lines": ["For Nowruz and for Sadeh, he decreed", "The priests should have the funds their rites would need."]}, {"id": "E5.12.56", "lines": ["With what remained, men mended every way,", "Restoring ruined stations from decay."]}, {"id": "E5.12.57", "lines": ["They strengthened desert ways and resting-sites,", "Made travel safe through days and hostile nights."]}, {"id": "E5.12.58", "lines": ["Four years of tribute he remitted then", "To crowned rulers and the poorest men."]}, {"id": "E5.12.59", "lines": ["Then letters, sealed, to all the nobles sped:", "“Bahram has struck our foe; our fear has fled."]}, {"id": "E5.12.60", "lines": ["King Saveh’s head was severed in the fray;", "The world has seen his triumph in our day.”"]}, {"id": "E5.12.61", "lines": ["The Shah spent two full weeks in prayer and praise;", "Then when the world’s light opened brighter days,"]}, {"id": "E5.12.62", "lines": ["He called the envoy back before the throne,", "And wrote to make his royal favor known."]}, {"id": "E5.12.63", "lines": ["He raised Bahram to honor in the state,", "And sent rich gifts befitting his great fate:"]}, {"id": "E5.12.64", "lines": ["A silver throne, gold sandals, rich brocade,", "And royal treasures, gleaming, gold-inlaid."]}, {"id": "E5.12.65", "lines": ["From Heytal to the river’s mighty flow,", "He granted Bahram all the lands below."]}, {"id": "E5.12.66", "lines": ["He bade, “Divide the spoil with judgment fair,", "And give each warrior his rightful share."]}, {"id": "E5.12.67", "lines": ["But Saveh’s private wealth belongs to court;", "Send every piece with guards and strong escort."]}, {"id": "E5.12.68", "lines": ["Then march on Parmudeh without delay;", "Let him not grow in power while you stay.”"]}, {"id": "E5.12.69", "lines": ["Hormizd sent gifts to all Iranian men,", "Confirmed by letters from the royal pen."]}, {"id": "E5.12.70", "lines": ["They gave the messenger a robe of state,", "Then called for noble steeds before the gate."]}, {"id": "E5.12.71", "lines": ["When Bahram’s envoy reached him, and he learned", "The Shah’s reply, with pride and joy he burned."]}, {"id": "E5.12.72", "lines": ["He gave the troops much booty from the field,", "Except the royal share he had to yield."]}, {"id": "E5.12.73", "lines": ["He sent that wealth with horsemen of renown,", "Who bore it safely to the royal town."]}, {"id": "E5.12.74", "lines": ["They bore it all to court by the royal way,", "While Bahram and his army sought a new fray."]}, {"id": "E5.13.1", "lines": ["When news came Bahram sought him as a foe,", "Parmudeh fled to ward the coming blow;"]}, {"id": "E5.13.2", "lines": ["Within Avaza’s hold, in chambers deep,", "He stored his gold and barred the mountain keep."]}, {"id": "E5.13.3", "lines": ["Then, crossing Jihun, he led out his force,", "And toward the field of battle took his course."]}, {"id": "E5.13.4", "lines": ["Both armies halted, ready for the fray,", "Two stages out from Balkh along the way."]}, {"id": "E5.13.5", "lines": ["Between the armies two farsangs of ground", "Lay fit for war, where death and fame are found."]}, {"id": "E5.13.6", "lines": ["Next day brave Bahram rode abroad to scan", "Parmudeh’s troops and judge each fighting man."]}, {"id": "E5.13.7", "lines": ["He chose a height above the level land,", "And mounted all his troops at his command."]}, {"id": "E5.13.8", "lines": ["Parmudeh saw them fill the desert’s face,", "With Bahram at their head in warlike grace."]}, {"id": "E5.13.9", "lines": ["He marveled at his stature and his frame,", "And on his lips was God’s oft-spoken name."]}, {"id": "E5.13.10", "lines": ["He groaned in grief: “A lion leads this foe;", "Yet few the warriors in his ranks, I know."]}, {"id": "E5.13.11", "lines": ["Their leader is a reckless man of might;", "Beneath him earth will redden in the fight."]}, {"id": "E5.13.12", "lines": ["At night we shall attack and drive them back,", "And banish terror from the army’s track.”"]}, {"id": "E5.13.13", "lines": ["Returning to his camp, he planned the fray,", "And praised the steeds in that small foe’s array."]}, {"id": "E5.13.14", "lines": ["“Their troops are few, yet excellent their steeds;", "Their warriors match the chief whom valor leads."]}, {"id": "E5.13.15", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin has a heart like flame;", "To him, spears, thorns, and weeds are all the same."]}, {"id": "E5.13.16", "lines": ["He conquered Saveh; triumph makes him brash,", "And blood has made him drunk and quick to clash."]}, {"id": "E5.13.17", "lines": ["With God to aid me, vengeance I shall take", "Upon that mountain for my father’s sake.”"]}, {"id": "E5.13.18", "lines": ["When Bahram marched to crush the Turkish might,", "A star-seer warned him of the hour to fight:"]}, {"id": "E5.13.19", "lines": ["“On Wednesday, draw no weapon from its sheath;", "Ill-omened battle yields a bitter wreath.”"]}, {"id": "E5.13.20", "lines": ["Between both camps there lay a garden fair,", "Beside the field, in pleasant morning air;"]}, {"id": "E5.13.21", "lines": ["When Wednesday dawned, he sought that shady space:", "“Let wine and harp make glad this peaceful place!”"]}, {"id": "E5.13.22", "lines": ["They spread fine carpets and prepared a feast,", "With wine and food, while songs and joy increased."]}, {"id": "E5.13.23", "lines": ["He feasted in the garden without fear,", "While battle’s shadow still was drawing near."]}, {"id": "E5.13.24", "lines": ["When one watch of dark night had passed away,", "The outposts came to where Parmudeh lay."]}, {"id": "E5.13.25", "lines": ["They said, “Bahram is feasting in the close.”", "Parmudeh’s anger like a night-wind rose."]}, {"id": "E5.13.26", "lines": ["He chose six thousand horsemen, brave in fight,", "With swords and spears, but not a lamp for light."]}, {"id": "E5.13.27", "lines": ["He sent them out to ring the garden wall,", "And hold the ground about it, one and all."]}, {"id": "E5.13.28", "lines": ["When Bahram learned the purpose of their raid,", "He called Yalan-sina and sought his aid:"]}, {"id": "E5.13.29", "lines": ["“O chief, break through this wall and clear our way,", "Before the Turks close in and win the day.”"]}, {"id": "E5.13.30", "lines": ["Brave Bahram mounted with Gashasp again,", "Accompanied by tested fighting men;"]}, {"id": "E5.13.31", "lines": ["They poured out through the breach to meet the foe,", "And dealt the raiding Turks a crushing blow."]}, {"id": "E5.13.32", "lines": ["At garden-gate the karnays raised their cry;", "The chieftain charged as battle thundered high."]}, {"id": "E5.13.33", "lines": ["They quickly made a second breach and came,", "And struck the foe amid the night’s dark flame."]}, {"id": "E5.13.34", "lines": ["Bahram, half-drunk, with dart within his hand,", "Assailed them fiercely on the broken land."]}, {"id": "E5.13.35", "lines": ["Few men escaped him as he cleared the field;", "Though half-drunk, still his courage would not yield."]}, {"id": "E5.13.36", "lines": ["As smiths’ hard hammers ring on tempered steel,", "So rang the blows beneath the turning wheel."]}, {"id": "E5.13.37", "lines": ["From garden wall to where Parmudeh stayed,", "Along the road the headless dead were laid."]}, {"id": "E5.13.38", "lines": ["When Bahram had returned into his place,", "He planned a night attack with iron face."]}, {"id": "E5.13.39", "lines": ["Past midnight he armed all his men and led", "His forces where the dark its mantle spread."]}, {"id": "E5.13.40", "lines": ["Among the Turks no scout beheld his way;", "No watcher saw him till the horns’ wild bray."]}, {"id": "E5.13.41", "lines": ["When he had reached the ground, the karnays cried;", "The warrior Turks awoke on every side."]}, {"id": "E5.13.42", "lines": ["From each wing tabiras and shouting rose;", "Their clamor filled the hearing of their foes."]}, {"id": "E5.13.43", "lines": ["Amid the spears that crowded all the ground,", "No man could tell what comrades stood around."]}, {"id": "E5.13.44", "lines": ["Iranian khanjars flashed with fiery light,", "And seemed to set the earth and air alight."]}, {"id": "E5.13.45", "lines": ["Of all those valiant Turks but few remained;", "The stones turned coral-red where blood had rained."]}, {"id": "E5.13.46", "lines": ["Their leader fled like dust, his mouth gone dry,", "His lips turned blue beneath the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "E5.13.47", "lines": ["So passed the night until the dawn drew breath,", "And somber darkness drew its skirts from death."]}, {"id": "E5.13.48", "lines": ["The Iranian chief then overtook the foe,", "And roared up like a lion from below:"]}, {"id": "E5.13.49", "lines": ["“O runaway, you shame the brave today;", "You are no man of battle; ride away."]}, {"id": "E5.13.50", "lines": ["It fits you still to suck your mother’s milk,", "Not wear a jowshan or a robe of silk.”"]}, {"id": "E5.13.51", "lines": ["The prince replied, “Fierce lion, how long still", "Will you pursue this slaughter with such will?"]}, {"id": "E5.13.52", "lines": ["Nahang and desert leopard sated grow;", "Is there no end to blood you cause to flow?"]}, {"id": "E5.13.53", "lines": ["You struck King Saveh’s head from off its place,", "A man whose farr the circling skies embrace."]}, {"id": "E5.13.54", "lines": ["You slaughtered troops; the sun and moon looked on", "In pity for the lives that now are gone."]}, {"id": "E5.13.55", "lines": ["I am the remnant of my father’s reign;", "Regard me now as one already slain."]}, {"id": "E5.13.56", "lines": ["Both Turk and Iranian are born to die;", "No birth beneath this heaven can pass death by."]}, {"id": "E5.13.57", "lines": ["I flee, you follow, yet you cannot take", "My life until its destined hour shall wake."]}, {"id": "E5.13.58", "lines": ["If sword in hand I turn against your might,", "One of us may be slain in single fight."]}, {"id": "E5.13.59", "lines": ["Do not be hasty, hot of head, or stern;", "A noble chief from such extremes should turn."]}, {"id": "E5.13.60", "lines": ["I shall go to my tent and write the king,", "And seek the safety that his grace may bring."]}, {"id": "E5.13.61", "lines": ["If he accepts me and will grant me grace,", "I shall serve his court and yield my royal place."]}, {"id": "E5.13.62", "lines": ["Put war and strife away. You came to fight;", "Now feast with goodwill after battle’s night.”"]}, {"id": "E5.13.63", "lines": ["Bahram, on hearing, turned his force away,", "Agreeing to the royal course that day."]}, {"id": "E5.13.64", "lines": ["When all his troops had rested, Bahram went", "To where Parmudeh’s army pitched its tent."]}, {"id": "E5.13.65", "lines": ["They cut the chieftains’ heads from every side,", "And heaped them mountain-high where warriors died."]}, {"id": "E5.13.66", "lines": ["The warriors, assembled on the plain,", "Named it Bahram’s Mound above the slain."]}, {"id": "E5.13.67", "lines": ["They gathered weapons scattered on the ground,", "And brought the captured gear beside the mound."]}, {"id": "E5.13.68", "lines": ["Bahram then wrote the Shah of all the fight,", "Parmudeh’s army and its broken might."]}, {"id": "E5.13.69", "lines": ["He told what he had suffered in the fray,", "From Turks and their proud monarch on that day."]}, {"id": "E5.13.70", "lines": ["He wrote that from the field Parmudeh fled,", "And in Avaza’s fortress hid his head."]}, {"id": "E5.13.71", "lines": ["Parmudeh shut the fortress gate in fear,", "And brooded on the danger drawing near."]}, {"id": "E5.13.72", "lines": ["The troops surrounded all the fortress ground,", "But no means of attack could yet be found."]}, {"id": "E5.13.73", "lines": ["Bahram said, “Better war than long delay;", "To linger at this task is not the way.”"]}, {"id": "E5.13.74", "lines": ["He bade Yalan-sina choose from the field", "Three thousand horsemen armed with sword and shield."]}, {"id": "E5.13.75", "lines": ["Izad Gashasp led, at the chief’s behest,", "Four thousand warriors, battle-tried, the best."]}, {"id": "E5.13.76", "lines": ["“Behead all found; let blood flow far and wide,", "A river that may draw the king outside.”"]}, {"id": "E5.14.1", "lines": ["Bahram before the fortress held his ground,", "Three days encamped with warriors ringed around."]}, {"id": "E5.14.2", "lines": ["At sunrise on the fourth, he sent a call", "To Prince Parmudeh, sheltered by the wall:"]}, {"id": "E5.14.3", "lines": ["“O prince of Turan’s marches, why now choose", "This mountain hold, your liberty to lose?"]}, {"id": "E5.14.4", "lines": ["Where now is Saveh’s quest for boundless power,", "His wealth and all the splendor of his hour?"]}, {"id": "E5.14.5", "lines": ["Where are his elephants in armor bright,", "His noble chiefs, his spells and magic might?"]}, {"id": "E5.14.6", "lines": ["All Turkdom once seemed small beneath your hand;", "Your father had no peer in any land."]}, {"id": "E5.14.7", "lines": ["Now woman-like, you hide within this place,", "With tear-stained eyes and terror on your face."]}, {"id": "E5.14.8", "lines": ["Unbar the gate and ask for grace today;", "Before the Shah I shall your plea convey."]}, {"id": "E5.14.9", "lines": ["Send down your treasures and your hoarded gold,", "From fortress towers and chambers of the hold."]}, {"id": "E5.14.10", "lines": ["If you would hoard your gold, give up your reign;", "A king regards mere coins with proud disdain."]}, {"id": "E5.14.11", "lines": ["For you I shall petition at the court;", "As Iran’s champion, I shall lend support."]}, {"id": "E5.14.12", "lines": ["I shall make you chief above the chiefs in name,", "And raise you higher than your proudest aim."]}, {"id": "E5.14.13", "lines": ["If some concealed design may ease your plight,", "And turn your dark adversity to light,"]}, {"id": "E5.14.14", "lines": ["Confide in me, since matters stand this way;", "Hold back no longer; cast no hope away."]}, {"id": "E5.14.15", "lines": ["But if companions still remain for fight,", "With treasure, gold, and troops of gathered might,"]}, {"id": "E5.14.16", "lines": ["Then beat the tabira; let vengeance ride;", "With wealth enough, fresh troops can be supplied.”"]}, {"id": "E5.14.17", "lines": ["The envoy came and spoke the message true;", "Parmudeh heard and answered what was due:"]}, {"id": "E5.14.18", "lines": ["“Go say to him: ‘Search not the world’s deep scheme;", "Your sudden triumph makes your boldness gleam!"]}, {"id": "E5.14.19", "lines": ["Your victory has borne its fruit today,", "Yet do not boast; the old world has its way."]}, {"id": "E5.14.20", "lines": ["The turning sky’s deep purpose no one knows;", "It veils the face behind the acts it shows."]}, {"id": "E5.14.21", "lines": ["Mock not the fallen, sepahbod; I too", "Had elephants and tabiras on view."]}, {"id": "E5.14.22", "lines": ["I too had soldiers massed across the plain;", "Trust not the sky, well schooled in fraud and pain."]}, {"id": "E5.14.23", "lines": ["My sire was mighty, great in power and fame;", "You faced him when to wage his war he came."]}, {"id": "E5.14.24", "lines": ["The earth lay bound beneath his horse’s tread,", "And heaven seemed to circle where he led."]}, {"id": "E5.14.25", "lines": ["Yet still he sought what was not his by right,", "And would not turn aside from wrongful fight."]}, {"id": "E5.14.26", "lines": ["His prowess now lies overlaid by shame,", "And enemies from far deride his name."]}, {"id": "E5.14.27", "lines": ["You spoke of troops whose numbers seemed to vie", "With beams of sun and moon across the sky."]}, {"id": "E5.14.28", "lines": ["Those steeds and elephants, like seeds, were ground", "Within the mill as Fortune turned it round."]}, {"id": "E5.14.29", "lines": ["All this will pass, and you shall pass with all;", "Your star will lose its luster at your fall."]}, {"id": "E5.14.30", "lines": ["Fear Fortune’s sharp revenge, for she may throw", "Her bane into the healing draft you know."]}, {"id": "E5.14.31", "lines": ["When one makes human blood his wanton trade,", "And strikes the innocent with reckless blade,"]}, {"id": "E5.14.32", "lines": ["His own shall flow as flowed the blood he shed,", "Till in the dust he joins the silent dead."]}, {"id": "E5.14.33", "lines": ["Though you may wreck the country of the Turks,", "In time revenge will rise from where it lurks."]}, {"id": "E5.14.34", "lines": ["I fear to come before you, lest I die;", "You serve; a king by birth and rank am I."]}, {"id": "E5.14.35", "lines": ["Shall I abase myself before a thrall?", "A lone attack my friends would madness call."]}, {"id": "E5.14.36", "lines": ["Yet in extremity there is no stain", "To seek the Shah’s protection and remain:"]}, {"id": "E5.14.37", "lines": ["Procure your monarch’s sealed and sworn decree,", "A pledge of safe-conduct to rescue me;"]}, {"id": "E5.14.38", "lines": ["Then take the fortress and its hoarded gold,", "And rule the fertile lands that I enroll.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.14.39", "lines": ["The envoy came and told him what he heard,", "And Bahram’s heart was gladdened by the word."]}, {"id": "E5.15.1", "lines": ["They wrote a letter, pressed on it the seal,", "And sent it to Shah Hormizd in appeal."]}, {"id": "E5.15.2", "lines": ["“The Turkish Khan now pleads to gain your grace;", "Bahram has hemmed him in a narrow place."]}, {"id": "E5.15.3", "lines": ["A sealed safe-conduct he requests today;", "Such news calls for a feast without delay:"]}, {"id": "E5.15.4", "lines": ["For Saveh’s heir has bowed his head so low,", "From height of glory into grief and woe.”"]}, {"id": "E5.15.5", "lines": ["The letter came; the Shah, in spirits high,", "Raised up his royal crown toward the sky."]}, {"id": "E5.15.6", "lines": ["He summoned all Iranians to his side,", "And ranked them near the throne in ordered pride;"]}, {"id": "E5.15.7", "lines": ["He bade them read the letter in his hall,", "While on the scribe showers of rubies fall."]}, {"id": "E5.15.8", "lines": ["“Three watches long I praise my God at night;", "The Turkish Khan is subject to our might!"]}, {"id": "E5.15.9", "lines": ["High heaven now has made our crown secure;", "His vast presumption could not long endure."]}, {"id": "E5.15.10", "lines": ["He raised his head until it touched the sky,", "And thought himself the sovereign throned on high."]}, {"id": "E5.15.11", "lines": ["Yet now this prince, with pride once overblown,", "Bows to a servant sent out from our throne:"]}, {"id": "E5.15.12", "lines": ["The Turks’ proud lord has laid his glory down,", "And rendered homage to our ancient crown!"]}, {"id": "E5.15.13", "lines": ["Praise to the Ruler of the sun and moon,", "The Source of every crown and royal boon."]}, {"id": "E5.15.14", "lines": ["Praise God in every righteous deed you do,", "And let no chance for goodness pass from you.”"]}, {"id": "E5.15.15", "lines": ["He called Bahram’s own envoy to his seat,", "And heard his words with favor, kind and sweet."]}, {"id": "E5.15.16", "lines": ["He called for gem-set girdle, robe of state,", "And kingly steed with trappings rich and great."]}, {"id": "E5.15.17", "lines": ["With every golden buckle jeweled bright,", "The horse was dressed in royal wealth and light."]}, {"id": "E5.15.18", "lines": ["He gave the envoy dinars, heap on heap,", "And precious gifts that royal stewards keep;"]}, {"id": "E5.15.19", "lines": ["A robe of woven gold the courier wore,", "While horses carried honors to his door."]}, {"id": "E5.15.20", "lines": ["He summoned then a scribe and bade him write", "On silk a warrant, formal, sealed, and bright:"]}, {"id": "E5.15.21", "lines": ["“Parmudeh Khan shall rest in peace secure;", "Beneath our royal seal this pledge is sure:"]}, {"id": "E5.15.22", "lines": ["We swear by God, who rules the turning sky,", "No hand shall harm him as he passes by;"]}, {"id": "E5.15.23", "lines": ["His blood and honor sacred shall remain,", "Escorted safely across our domain.”"]}, {"id": "E5.15.24", "lines": ["He wrote to Bahram too in words of grace,", "A letter sweet as heaven’s own embrace:"]}, {"id": "E5.15.25", "lines": ["“Send Prince Parmudeh with his army here;", "Treat him with honor, free of harm or fear."]}, {"id": "E5.15.26", "lines": ["The booty taken from his routed train,", "The spoils you won with valor on the plain,"]}, {"id": "E5.15.27", "lines": ["Send all to court that forms the royal share;", "The Maker’s aid shall guard you everywhere."]}, {"id": "E5.15.28", "lines": ["Seek out the foe and take his goods in hand;", "Burn down his house, but keep and hold the land."]}, {"id": "E5.15.29", "lines": ["If further troops are needed, they are yours;", "And wealth shall reach you from the royal stores."]}, {"id": "E5.15.30", "lines": ["Set down your needs in writing; I will send", "Whatever troops you need until war’s end."]}, {"id": "E5.15.31", "lines": ["Name those Iranians faithful to your side;", "Their toil shall earn rewards I shall provide."]}, {"id": "E5.15.32", "lines": ["Your men shall govern marches as their due;", "A crown and Pahlevanship go to you.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.1", "lines": ["When the Shah’s letter reached the famous chief,", "New youth arose and banished age and grief."]}, {"id": "E5.16.2", "lines": ["The king’s high words amazed him, and he sent", "To call the chiefs and envoy to his tent."]}, {"id": "E5.16.3", "lines": ["He showed the Shah’s rich gifts to every man;", "They blessed King Hormizd as acclaim began."]}, {"id": "E5.16.4", "lines": ["He showed the warriors what the Shah had penned;", "Their shouts made earth itself appear to bend."]}, {"id": "E5.16.5", "lines": ["He sent the honored warrant to the hold,", "The royal seal upon its silk and gold."]}, {"id": "E5.16.6", "lines": ["Parmudeh’s darkened spirit brightened then;", "He praised the king before his gathered men."]}, {"id": "E5.16.7", "lines": ["He left his fortress, famous, strong, and high,", "And gave its wealth to Bahram standing by."]}, {"id": "E5.16.8", "lines": ["Bahram sent guards to count what lay inside,", "And list the treasures stored there side by side."]}, {"id": "E5.16.9", "lines": ["Descending from the hold with haughty stride,", "The Khan rode down the slope in lofty pride;"]}, {"id": "E5.16.10", "lines": ["He passed the lines in arrogant array,", "Nor deigned to look where Bahram held his way."]}, {"id": "E5.16.11", "lines": ["Bahram resented how the Khan rode by,", "Though he had gained a king, a prize so high."]}, {"id": "E5.16.12", "lines": ["He sent men after him and had him led", "Afoot before the troops, with humbled head."]}, {"id": "E5.16.13", "lines": ["Parmudeh said, “Once I was raised above", "The folk, with kingship, majesty, and love."]}, {"id": "E5.16.14", "lines": ["But now I come a suppliant, brought low,", "Cast down from glory into shame and woe."]}, {"id": "E5.16.15", "lines": ["Today you show a harsh and cruel face", "In dragging me before you in disgrace."]}, {"id": "E5.16.16", "lines": ["Now that I hold the warrant of the king,", "I go to court beneath his sheltering wing."]}, {"id": "E5.16.17", "lines": ["Perhaps he will receive me brother-wise,", "And lighten grief before my wounded eyes."]}, {"id": "E5.16.18", "lines": ["What more would you demand? My wealth, my throne,", "And all my goods I gave you as your own.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.19", "lines": ["At these cold words, Bahram’s fierce eyes caught flame;", "His fury burst beyond all bounds of shame:"]}, {"id": "E5.16.20", "lines": ["He raised his whip and struck Parmudeh’s head,", "A wanton stroke that filled the chiefs with dread!"]}, {"id": "E5.16.21", "lines": ["They bound the royal prince without delay,", "And in a narrow tent he spent the day."]}, {"id": "E5.16.22", "lines": ["Kharrad, son of Barzin, said in pain,", "“In Bahram, wisdom does not seem to reign.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.23", "lines": ["He drew the chief scribe near him and confessed", "How Bahram’s temper left his soul distressed:"]}, {"id": "E5.16.24", "lines": ["“He has not one mosquito’s wing of wit;", "He scorns all men and thinks no counsel fit."]}, {"id": "E5.16.25", "lines": ["He heeds no man. We must go speak today,", "And tell him, ‘Wrath will lead your mind astray."]}, {"id": "E5.16.26", "lines": ["Your temper is your deepest source of shame;", "It wastes your toil and stains your victor’s name.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.27", "lines": ["They went to Bahram, pallid in the face,", "With counsel on their tongues and measured pace."]}, {"id": "E5.16.28", "lines": ["They said, “You throw your labor to the air;", "Let not your head with anger blaze and flare.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.29", "lines": ["He knew his deed was vile; in shame and dread,", "He laid a heavy hand upon his head:"]}, {"id": "E5.16.30", "lines": ["Like unbaked brick dissolved in churning tide,", "His rashness washed away his victor’s pride."]}, {"id": "E5.16.31", "lines": ["Repentant, he unloosed the captive’s chain,", "And sought to soothe the prince’s grief and pain."]}, {"id": "E5.16.32", "lines": ["In great concern he sent a horse arrayed", "In golden trappings, for a monarch made."]}, {"id": "E5.16.33", "lines": ["An Indian sword in golden sheath he sent,", "Then went himself to soothe the Khan’s lament."]}, {"id": "E5.16.34", "lines": ["He stayed until the Khan had clasped his belt", "And swung astride a racer, sleek of pelt."]}, {"id": "E5.16.35", "lines": ["Then Bahram rode beside him on his way,", "And saw the prince’s face was dark and gray."]}, {"id": "E5.16.36", "lines": ["When time had come to part, Bahram then said,", "“You bear a secret grudge within your head."]}, {"id": "E5.16.37", "lines": ["Yet hide this secret grievance from the king;", "No honor lies in charges you may bring.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.38", "lines": ["The Khan replied, “Of Fortune I complain;", "I leave all judgment to God’s hidden reign."]}, {"id": "E5.16.39", "lines": ["I am not one who spreads reports abroad", "Of other men, their deeds, their rank, or fraud."]}, {"id": "E5.16.40", "lines": ["Yet if your monarch hears no news of this,", "He is not worthy of his throne and bliss."]}, {"id": "E5.16.41", "lines": ["The turning sky has bound me to this state;", "I do not speak of servants’ wrongs or hate.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.42", "lines": ["At this, Bahram grew pale and writhed within,", "Yet swallowed down his wrath and held it in."]}, {"id": "E5.16.43", "lines": ["He said, “This proves the warning wise men give:", "Sow evil, and its bitter fruit will live."]}, {"id": "E5.16.44", "lines": ["For time will give you fruit of what you cast,", "And bitter harvests ripen at the last."]}, {"id": "E5.16.45", "lines": ["Why did I fill my heart with loyal care,", "And seek to show you kindness everywhere?"]}, {"id": "E5.16.46", "lines": ["I wrote the Shah and hid your every shame,", "And softened every fault that bore your name.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.47", "lines": ["The Khan replied, “That evil time is past;", "Those former words are wind that cannot last."]}, {"id": "E5.16.48", "lines": ["Yet insolence belongs to days of strife,", "And courtesy to peace and settled life."]}, {"id": "E5.16.49", "lines": ["If war and peace are all the same in deed,", "Your wisdom offers little in our need."]}, {"id": "E5.16.50", "lines": ["When leaders think themselves too wise to heed", "Their king’s commands, they sow an evil seed."]}, {"id": "E5.16.51", "lines": ["One ought to walk God’s path and cleanse the heart,", "And bid the darkness in the soul depart."]}, {"id": "E5.16.52", "lines": ["It would be well to say no more today;", "For past ill, like the wind, has passed away.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.53", "lines": ["Then Bahram smiled: “I thought this would stay hid;", "I shall not veil in silk the wrong I did."]}, {"id": "E5.16.54", "lines": ["Speak as you will when you arrive at court;", "My name will bear no stain from your report.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.55", "lines": ["The Khan said, “Kings must weigh both good and ill,", "And judge their true degree with even will."]}, {"id": "E5.16.56", "lines": ["A king who lets his servants’ crimes take flight", "Is witless and abandons royal right."]}, {"id": "E5.16.57", "lines": ["When malcontents afar observe that thing,", "Allies and kings will judge both slave and king."]}, {"id": "E5.16.58", "lines": ["They call you reckless, witless, light of head,", "And say Iran’s own king is poorly led.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.59", "lines": ["Bahram grew pale; and Kharrad saw his ire,", "And feared that counsel soon would feed the fire."]}, {"id": "E5.16.60", "lines": ["He feared that bloodthirsty, wrathful man", "Would hurl Parmudeh down and end his span."]}, {"id": "E5.16.61", "lines": ["He said, “O sepahbod, master your wrath;", "Abandon bitterness and leave this path."]}, {"id": "E5.16.62", "lines": ["The Khan spoke well; now hear him without blame,", "For calmer words may quench both hearts’ hot flame.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.63", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “This man of evil breath", "Would gladly join his father now in death.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.64", "lines": ["Parmudeh said, “Do not renew this woe;", "I lost my father; do not wound me so."]}, {"id": "E5.16.65", "lines": ["All those in this world who resemble you,", "With dust-cloud heads and hearts of smoking hue,"]}, {"id": "E5.16.66", "lines": ["Imagine ill, agree with none, and raise", "Themselves by craft and cruelty for praise."]}, {"id": "E5.16.67", "lines": ["You threaten me with Hormizd’s sovereign power;", "I shall not flee what comes in fate’s own hour."]}, {"id": "E5.16.68", "lines": ["He is my peer among the great in fame,", "Not a maligning slave who hates my name."]}, {"id": "E5.16.69", "lines": ["He is gentle, wise, and high of birth,", "And mindful of the men of name on earth."]}, {"id": "E5.16.70", "lines": ["By Hormizd’s soul and head I charge you now:", "Return at once and cool your angry brow."]}, {"id": "E5.16.71", "lines": ["Give me no more replies; let speech now cease;", "Say nothing more, and leave my heart in peace.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.72", "lines": ["When Bahram heard, he turned with wrathful tread", "Back to the camp, where anger filled his head."]}, {"id": "E5.16.73", "lines": ["That proven warrior called the wise to hear:", "“Kharrad and chief scribe, Mobadan, draw near."]}, {"id": "E5.16.74", "lines": ["Now write a letter to the world’s great king,", "And tell him every public, private thing.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.75", "lines": ["He told the chiefs and Mobadan, “Depart", "Now to the hold, with diligence and art."]}, {"id": "E5.16.76", "lines": ["Go like the wind; discover, count, and tell", "What treasures in Avaza’s chambers dwell.”"]}, {"id": "E5.16.77", "lines": ["The scribes set out with fearful hearts that day;", "From dawn they wrote till daylight passed away."]}, {"id": "E5.16.78", "lines": ["Until three watches of the night were past,", "They filled the pages, but the hoard stayed vast."]}, {"id": "E5.16.79", "lines": ["There was no room to move for precious things,", "The hoards of ancient ages, wars, and kings."]}, {"id": "E5.16.80", "lines": ["Spoils of Afrasiab’s era there were stored,", "And Arjasp’s wealth in treasuries outpoured."]}, {"id": "E5.16.81", "lines": ["Gold coins and jewels won from sea and mine", "Lay heaped there by the favoring sky’s design."]}, {"id": "E5.16.82", "lines": ["Such were the treasures in Avaza’s hold,", "World-famous, measureless in gems and gold."]}, {"id": "E5.16.83", "lines": ["Among the goods of Siavash came to light", "A belt whose golden clasps were jeweled bright;"]}, {"id": "E5.16.84", "lines": ["Two drop-pearl earrings, such as none on earth", "Had ever witnessed of such matchless worth:"]}, {"id": "E5.16.85", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow gave them once to Lohrasp’s hand;", "Then Lohrasp passed them to Goshtasb’s command."]}, {"id": "E5.16.86", "lines": ["Then Arjasp took and stored them there unknown;", "No living man could tell how long they shone."]}, {"id": "E5.16.87", "lines": ["They made a full account of every prize", "Stored in the treasuries beneath their eyes."]}, {"id": "E5.16.88", "lines": ["Yet no astrologer, nor prince acclaimed,", "Could know the sum of wealth the fortress claimed."]}, {"id": "E5.16.89", "lines": ["Bahram then sent a scribe, shrewd and aware,", "Eloquent, mindful, fit for royal care."]}, {"id": "E5.16.90", "lines": ["He gathered booty from the hold and field,", "And every prize the war had made them yield."]}, {"id": "E5.16.91", "lines": ["Among the spoil were earrings rich and rare,", "An imperial crown fit for a Shah to wear."]}, {"id": "E5.16.92", "lines": ["A dragon-coronet of beaten gold,", "Once worn by famed Siavash, they could behold."]}, {"id": "E5.16.93", "lines": ["Two cloths of Yemen, woven gold and fine,", "And each weighed seven mans by measured line."]}, {"id": "E5.16.94", "lines": ["Through fatal pride and arrogance of will,", "The captain chose to keep that treasure still:"]}, {"id": "E5.16.95", "lines": ["He hid the cloths; no scribe was let to trace", "That golden crown or list it in its place!"]}, {"id": "E5.16.96", "lines": ["He ordered Izad Gashasp forth to ride,", "With one full thousand horsemen at his side."]}, {"id": "E5.16.97", "lines": ["He asked the Khan for camels for the load;", "He counted out their burdens for the road."]}, {"id": "E5.16.98", "lines": ["The Khan rode first, his nobles riding near;", "The horsemen followed, guarding from the rear."]}, {"id": "E5.17.1", "lines": ["With troops and treasure, gifts in rich array,", "The Khan drew near the monarch’s court that day."]}, {"id": "E5.17.2", "lines": ["The Shah received the news and took his stand", "With crown on head and gorz within his hand."]}, {"id": "E5.17.3", "lines": ["He reached the gate and from the porch surveyed", "What honor by the Khan and troops was paid."]}, {"id": "E5.17.4", "lines": ["He paused to see if they would quit their steeds,", "While Parmudeh watched Hormizd’s looks and deeds."]}, {"id": "E5.17.5", "lines": ["Still mounted, with Izad Gashasp beside,", "The Khan approached with grave, imperial pride;"]}, {"id": "E5.17.6", "lines": ["Lest either monarch should concede the right,", "King Hormizd took a courser sleek and light:"]}, {"id": "E5.17.7", "lines": ["He rode a coal-black Arab through the gate,", "To greet the prince in equal royal state."]}, {"id": "E5.17.8", "lines": ["Beside the Khan he stayed a little space,", "Within the entrance of the royal place."]}, {"id": "E5.17.9", "lines": ["The chamberlain reached out and seized his rein;", "The Khan dismounted there before the train."]}, {"id": "E5.17.10", "lines": ["By yielding so, exact and self-possessed,", "He showed the tact by which his suit was blessed."]}, {"id": "E5.17.11", "lines": ["When he came near the throne, the king, grown kind,", "Received him, leaving bygone wrongs behind."]}, {"id": "E5.17.12", "lines": ["He welcomed him with honor near the throne,", "Repenting all the hatred he had shown."]}, {"id": "E5.17.13", "lines": ["They lodged him in a palace bright and fair,", "With all things needful ordered for his care."]}, {"id": "E5.17.14", "lines": ["A scribe was charged to lodge his retinue", "Close by, with every honor that was due."]}, {"id": "E5.17.15", "lines": ["When word of all Parmudeh’s wealth was told,", "The Shah arranged the keeping of the gold."]}, {"id": "E5.17.16", "lines": ["Within the square the laden beasts stood rank", "On rank, each driver at his camel’s flank."]}, {"id": "E5.17.17", "lines": ["On the eighth day, the Khan’s long toil had ceased;", "The Shah commanded court to hold a feast."]}, {"id": "E5.17.18", "lines": ["When Khan and nobles gathered at the board,", "They sat before King Hormizd, Iran’s lord."]}, {"id": "E5.17.19", "lines": ["He bade them bring the camel-burdens near;", "The nobles gasped to see such wealth appear:"]}, {"id": "E5.17.20", "lines": ["Ten thousand porters labored in array", "To haul that fortune through the gates that day."]}, {"id": "E5.17.21", "lines": ["At dawn, when wine refreshed the royal hall,", "Shah Hormizd took his seat before them all:"]}, {"id": "E5.17.22", "lines": ["Full fifty thousand packs of costly ware", "Were borne inside from out the palace square;"]}, {"id": "E5.17.23", "lines": ["A hundred vaults were filled with hoarded gold,", "Amassed from battlefields and keeps of old."]}, {"id": "E5.17.24", "lines": ["When all the public reckoning was complete,", "The Shah had garments brought before his seat."]}, {"id": "E5.17.25", "lines": ["With jeweled earrings and a girdle bright,", "The clothes were rich with gold and jeweled light."]}, {"id": "E5.17.26", "lines": ["Then through the banquet hall arose acclaim:", "“Victorious be the Shah in crown and fame!”"]}, {"id": "E5.17.27", "lines": ["He asked Izad Gashasp, “What say you now?", "Has Chubin set our crown upon our brow?”"]}, {"id": "E5.17.28", "lines": ["Izad replied, “When Chubin’s wooden strain", "Resounds, the trees will shed their fruit in pain!”"]}, {"id": "E5.17.29", "lines": ["Those covert words aroused the monarch’s dread;", "Suspicion gathered in his troubled head."]}, {"id": "E5.18.1", "lines": ["A sturdy camel-courier reached the throne", "And brought the chief scribe’s message, sealed and known."]}, {"id": "E5.18.2", "lines": ["“May the great Shah forever joyful stand,", "His crown held in his servant’s heart and hand."]}, {"id": "E5.18.3", "lines": ["Two fine Yemeni cloths were in the spoil,", "With ancient treasures of Turanian soil:"]}, {"id": "E5.18.4", "lines": ["A crown of gold, with radiant jewels bright,", "Which famed Siavash had worn in ancient fight."]}, {"id": "E5.18.5", "lines": ["From these the chief took treasure for his own,", "And kept that portion from the royal throne;"]}, {"id": "E5.18.6", "lines": ["He bore the toil of battle; is it strange", "That he should keep some treasure in exchange?”"]}, {"id": "E5.18.7", "lines": ["Hormizd said to Parmudeh, “Tell me true", "All that you saw in this affair and knew.”"]}, {"id": "E5.18.8", "lines": ["The prince confirmed the scribe’s report, and said:", "“He struck with whip your safe-conduct and my head!”"]}, {"id": "E5.18.9", "lines": ["The haughty Shah grew dark within his court:", "“Bahram has strayed from right, by your report!"]}, {"id": "E5.18.10", "lines": ["He lifts his head as high as heaven’s height,", "And dares strike royal blood with lawless spite!"]}, {"id": "E5.18.11", "lines": ["Now shall a monarch’s crown indulge his greed?", "Does this proud servant claim our royal breed?"]}, {"id": "E5.18.12", "lines": ["His toil is wind; the good he did is lost;", "His justice turns to wrong at bitter cost.”"]}, {"id": "E5.18.13", "lines": ["He called the Khan and seated him nearby,", "And feasted him with royal honor high."]}, {"id": "E5.18.14", "lines": ["They sat till night spread musky tresses wide,", "And darkness gathered over every side."]}, {"id": "E5.18.15", "lines": ["The Shah said, “For my sake you suffered so;", "Here, from my people, you have met with woe.”"]}, {"id": "E5.18.16", "lines": ["He took the Khan’s hand firmly in his own;", "Parmudeh marveled at the favor shown."]}, {"id": "E5.18.17", "lines": ["The Shah went on: “Now swear a solemn oath,", "And let our faith be binding on us both."]}, {"id": "E5.18.18", "lines": ["When you return, break faith with none of mine,", "Not me, nor nobles of the Iranian line.”"]}, {"id": "E5.18.19", "lines": ["They swore great oaths by God, whom all revere,", "And by the lives of chiefs assembled here;"]}, {"id": "E5.18.20", "lines": ["By Him above all greatness, all we know,", "Who gave both Venus and Jupiter their glow;"]}, {"id": "E5.18.21", "lines": ["By sun and moon, by royal crown and throne,", "They pledged the faith their solemn words made known;"]}, {"id": "E5.18.22", "lines": ["By Azargashasp’s enduring sacred flame,", "They bound themselves beneath that solemn name;"]}, {"id": "E5.18.23", "lines": ["By signet-ring and diadem they swore", "The Khan would turn against the Shah no more."]}, {"id": "E5.18.24", "lines": ["He would not let his heart from Hormizd stray,", "Nor cause him grief in any deed or way."]}, {"id": "E5.18.25", "lines": ["That oath complete, the gathered kings arose,", "And each one sought his couch in night’s repose."]}, {"id": "E5.18.26", "lines": ["When yellow sun had climbed the mountain crest,", "The kings awoke from their appointed rest."]}, {"id": "E5.18.27", "lines": ["The noble Shah prepared a splendid train", "Of gold and silver, steeds with jeweled rein,"]}, {"id": "E5.18.28", "lines": ["Rich coronets and girdles worked in gold,", "With armlets, torques, and earrings manifold."]}, {"id": "E5.18.29", "lines": ["Arabian horses stood in golden gear,", "And Indian swords in golden sheaths were near."]}, {"id": "E5.18.30", "lines": ["He sent them to the Khan, then rode beside", "His guest through parting stages, stride for stride."]}, {"id": "E5.18.31", "lines": ["Two stages, then a portion of a third,", "He rode, then turned with many a parting word."]}, {"id": "E5.18.32", "lines": ["When Bahram heard what gifts the Shah had sent,", "And how the Khan returned in high content,"]}, {"id": "E5.18.33", "lines": ["He rode to meet him with a chosen train,", "His heart still troubled by remorse and pain."]}, {"id": "E5.18.34", "lines": ["He stored provisions where the Khan would pass,", "In town and village, hill and open grass."]}, {"id": "E5.18.35", "lines": ["Ashamed of all the wrong that he had done,", "He sought forgiveness from King Saveh’s son."]}, {"id": "E5.18.36", "lines": ["He greeted him with blessings on his way;", "The Khan turned from him, nothing more to say."]}, {"id": "E5.18.37", "lines": ["No coin, provision, slave, or gift he took;", "He rode as though he would not spare a look."]}, {"id": "E5.18.38", "lines": ["For three full stages Bahram rode beside;", "The Khan ignored him with unwavering pride."]}, {"id": "E5.18.39", "lines": ["Upon the fourth, Parmudeh sent to say:", "“Turn back; you have endured enough today.”"]}, {"id": "E5.18.40", "lines": ["When Bahram heard that cold, dismissing word,", "Chagrin and sorrow in his bosom stirred;"]}, {"id": "E5.18.41", "lines": ["He turned his rein toward Balkh in silent dread,", "While on to Tisfoon all the rumors sped."]}, {"id": "E5.18.42", "lines": ["There, shamed and sore, he brooded on his deed;", "Meanwhile the Shah’s resentment gathered speed."]}, {"id": "E5.18.43", "lines": ["He loathed the blow that brought the Khan disgrace,", "And spoil seized without royal word or grace."]}, {"id": "E5.19.1", "lines": ["The king then wrote to Bahram in disdain:", "“O foul, rebellious Div, corrupt and vain!"]}, {"id": "E5.19.2", "lines": ["Blind arrogance has robbed you of your sense;", "You mock our majesty with insolence!"]}, {"id": "E5.19.3", "lines": ["You fail to see that God grants all your might,", "Yet mount the turning heavens in your flight."]}, {"id": "E5.19.4", "lines": ["Have you forgotten all our toil and strain,", "The gold and armies lavished on your plain?"]}, {"id": "E5.19.5", "lines": ["You shun the path true Pahlevans maintain,", "And lift your haughty head in proud disdain!"]}, {"id": "E5.19.6", "lines": ["You turned aside from what my word decreed,", "And chose instead another path and deed."]}, {"id": "E5.19.7", "lines": ["Here is the robe of honor fit for you,", "A gift well matched to everything you do.”"]}, {"id": "E5.19.8", "lines": ["The Shah then sealed the scroll and gave command", "To fetch the emblems of the spinner’s hand:"]}, {"id": "E5.19.9", "lines": ["A distaff, case, and spindle laid with care,", "With skeins of cotton for his hands to bear;"]}, {"id": "E5.19.10", "lines": ["A woman’s gown, a veil of golden thread,", "With heavy iron fetters forged in dread."]}, {"id": "E5.19.11", "lines": ["He chose a courier base in thought and pride,", "To bear those mocking tokens to his side."]}, {"id": "E5.19.12", "lines": ["He said, “Present these tokens to his sight,", "And let my words augment his shameful plight:"]}, {"id": "E5.19.13", "lines": ["‘O faithless slave, you bound the Khan in spite,", "And in the fall of nobles found delight!"]}, {"id": "E5.19.14", "lines": ["Now from your high command you shall be cast;", "The season of your prominence is past!’”"]}, {"id": "E5.19.15", "lines": ["The envoy brought the gifts with all due speed,", "And spoke the message as the Shah decreed."]}, {"id": "E5.20.1", "lines": ["When Bahram saw the gift the Shah had sent,", "He bore it silently, in discontent."]}, {"id": "E5.20.2", "lines": ["He thought, “Is this my recompense today", "For fighting in the Shah’s cause, far away?"]}, {"id": "E5.20.3", "lines": ["This insult was not fashioned by the king;", "My foes have urged him to this shameful thing."]}, {"id": "E5.20.4", "lines": ["The Shah commands his subjects as he will;", "Though he disgrace me, I shall serve him still."]}, {"id": "E5.20.5", "lines": ["I never thought the spite of foes could steer", "The royal judgment of a master’s ear."]}, {"id": "E5.20.6", "lines": ["Since I left court with but a slender train,", "All men have seen my hardship and my pain."]}, {"id": "E5.20.7", "lines": ["If such toil earns this garment of disgrace,", "Then heaven has withdrawn its former grace."]}, {"id": "E5.20.8", "lines": ["I will complain to God against the sky", "That stripped its love from me and passed me by.”"]}, {"id": "E5.20.9", "lines": ["He called upon the Judge who grants the good,", "Then took the shameful raiment where he stood."]}, {"id": "E5.20.10", "lines": ["In woman’s trailing red he sat arrayed,", "His haughty head beneath a veil displayed;"]}, {"id": "E5.20.11", "lines": ["He took the distaff, and with bitter zest", "He spun the raw white cotton to his breast!"]}, {"id": "E5.20.12", "lines": ["He bade his veteran captains gather near,", "The twelve full thousand who had known no fear;"]}, {"id": "E5.20.13", "lines": ["They thronged the tent, struck speechless and amazed,", "As on their sepahbod, spinning thread, they gazed!"]}, {"id": "E5.20.14", "lines": ["He said, “The Shah has sent this robe to me;", "This is his gift, as all of you can see."]}, {"id": "E5.20.15", "lines": ["The Shah commands; we are his loyal slaves,", "And love for him is what each true heart craves."]}, {"id": "E5.20.16", "lines": ["Now speak your minds, you chiefs before my face:", "What answer shall we give to this disgrace?”"]}, {"id": "E5.20.17", "lines": ["They cried: “O peerless captain of the fight,", "Is this how royal crowns our toil requite?"]}, {"id": "E5.20.18", "lines": ["If this vile shameful gown be your reward,", "Then dogs are worthier than Iran’s sword!"]}, {"id": "E5.20.19", "lines": ["Recall the sage at Rey, that ancient seer,", "Whose heart was filled with wrath at Ardeshir:"]}, {"id": "E5.20.20", "lines": ["‘I turn from priest and Shah with bitter woe", "When he ignores the hardships that I know.’"]}, {"id": "E5.20.21", "lines": ["How can you seek for honor from a man", "Who grants no honor to the loyal clan?”"]}, {"id": "E5.20.22", "lines": ["He said: “No more! The Shah commands our blade;", "From him derives the honor we displayed."]}, {"id": "E5.20.23", "lines": ["We are his servants, pledged to do his will;", "Whatever gifts he grants, we serve him still.”"]}, {"id": "E5.20.24", "lines": ["They cried: “We shall not bear his yoke again!", "No more shall Hormizd rule as king of men;"]}, {"id": "E5.20.25", "lines": ["Nor will we follow you, if you remain", "A cringing servant to a master vain!”"]}, {"id": "E5.20.26", "lines": ["They poured in fury out upon the plain,", "While Bahram feigned to urge them to refrain."]}, {"id": "E5.21.1", "lines": ["Two weeks had passed; he left his palace, keen", "To ride into the open fields of green."]}, {"id": "E5.21.2", "lines": ["Before him stood a forest thick with trees,", "A place for hunting, mirth, and pleasant ease."]}, {"id": "E5.21.3", "lines": ["A Gur-e-Khar roamed there, an animal fair;", "No living eye had seen a form so rare."]}, {"id": "E5.21.4", "lines": ["He followed, holding back his horse’s pace,", "And would not overheat him in the chase."]}, {"id": "E5.21.5", "lines": ["Within the woods, a narrow pathway lay;", "The Gur-e-Khar then went down that narrow way."]}, {"id": "E5.21.6", "lines": ["When that proud Gur-e-Khar had crossed the lane,", "Beyond it opened meadowland and plain."]}, {"id": "E5.21.7", "lines": ["He followed through the heat across the land,", "His mouth as dry as dust upon the sand."]}, {"id": "E5.21.8", "lines": ["Bahram observed and rode until his sight", "Beheld a splendid palace, clear and bright."]}, {"id": "E5.21.9", "lines": ["The Gur-e-Khar led onward all the way;", "Izad Gashasp rode after him that day."]}, {"id": "E5.21.10", "lines": ["To him he gave his fleet steed’s reins and said,", "“May wisdom ever guard the path you tread.”"]}, {"id": "E5.21.11", "lines": ["He passed the porch alone; no comrade went", "Beside him. Izad watched outside, intent."]}, {"id": "E5.21.12", "lines": ["Behind them, Yalan-sina swiftly came,", "Upon a warhorse, armed for deeds of fame."]}, {"id": "E5.21.13", "lines": ["Izad said, “Lion, enter now and learn", "Where our chief passed and when he may return."]}, {"id": "E5.21.14", "lines": ["Our captain, strength of all our troops, is gone;", "Go seek him in the palace farther on.”"]}, {"id": "E5.21.15", "lines": ["Yalan-sina went on with anxious heart,", "To find the chief and search each hidden part."]}, {"id": "E5.21.16", "lines": ["He saw a hall magnificent and wide,", "No equal known in all Iran beside."]}, {"id": "E5.21.17", "lines": ["Upon one side a cupola rose high,", "Its summit hidden in the distant sky."]}, {"id": "E5.21.18", "lines": ["Beneath it stood a throne of solid gold,", "Each foot with jewels splendid to behold."]}, {"id": "E5.21.19", "lines": ["Brocade from Rum lay patterned on the throne,", "With gems set deep in gold that flashed and shone."]}, {"id": "E5.21.20", "lines": ["A crowned lady sat in sovereign grace,", "Tall as a cypress, springtime in her face."]}, {"id": "E5.21.21", "lines": ["Beside that throne another seat was set,", "Where Bahram sat, amazed at all he met."]}, {"id": "E5.21.22", "lines": ["Around them stood fair maidens, petal-cheeked,", "Like idols that the finest painters seek."]}, {"id": "E5.21.23", "lines": ["The lady spoke: “Why clouds upon your brow?", "The crown of kingship waits upon you now!"]}, {"id": "E5.21.24", "lines": ["God grants to you the scepter of this land;", "The throne of Kayanians rests in your hand!"]}, {"id": "E5.21.25", "lines": ["Gird up your loins, fulfill what fate decreed,", "Though fleeting is the glory of the deed!”"]}, {"id": "E5.21.26", "lines": ["When Yalan-sina entered, she addressed", "A handmaid standing near in service dressed:"]}, {"id": "E5.21.27", "lines": ["“Go tell that lion-hearted man,” she said,", "“He must not enter here; let him instead"]}, {"id": "E5.21.28", "lines": ["Remain beside his comrades; tell him then", "That Bahram soon will be with him again.”"]}, {"id": "E5.21.29", "lines": ["She bade her speak in Bahram’s name, and tell", "The waiting man to leave, that all was well."]}, {"id": "E5.21.30", "lines": ["She sent her servants to his retinue,", "To bring the warriors’ horses safely through."]}, {"id": "E5.21.31", "lines": ["They led the mounts to stalls and gathered gear,", "And counted all the saddles lying near."]}, {"id": "E5.21.32", "lines": ["The gardener opened wide the garden gate,", "Obedient to the lady’s mandate."]}, {"id": "E5.21.33", "lines": ["A serving man came in with barsom sprays,", "To tend the rite and speak the words of praise."]}, {"id": "E5.21.34", "lines": ["They spread within the garden such a feast", "That wonder seized the greatest and the least."]}, {"id": "E5.21.35", "lines": ["When all the warriors had eaten bread,", "They stabled every charger in its shed."]}, {"id": "E5.21.36", "lines": ["When Bahram turned to leave, he blessed her reign:", "“May Jupiter beside your crown remain.”"]}, {"id": "E5.21.37", "lines": ["She said, “May victory attend your way;", "Be patient, wise in counsel, day by day.”"]}, {"id": "E5.21.38", "lines": ["When Bahram left that hall, dark visions spread;", "His brooding eyes were rimmed with tears of red:"]}, {"id": "E5.21.39", "lines": ["Transformed in countenance, in thought, and speech,", "His soaring mind reached past all mortal reach!"]}, {"id": "E5.21.40", "lines": ["Again the Gur-e-Khar appeared ahead;", "The chief pursued it where its pathway led."]}, {"id": "E5.21.41", "lines": ["Until he cleared the forest’s final side,", "The Gur-e-Khar still served him as a guide."]}, {"id": "E5.21.42", "lines": ["He then returned from hunting, homeward bound,", "Yet told the ranks no word of what was found."]}, {"id": "E5.21.43", "lines": ["Kharrad asked what vision met his eyes;", "He gave no answer, lost in dark surmise."]}, {"id": "E5.21.44", "lines": ["He sought his palace, gloomy and withdrawn,", "And left the question there to linger on."]}, {"id": "E5.22.1", "lines": ["Next day, when dawn had silvered every height,", "And morning filled the world with golden light,"]}, {"id": "E5.22.2", "lines": ["Bahram spread carpets of Chinese brocade,", "As if the vault of heaven were displayed."]}, {"id": "E5.22.3", "lines": ["Throughout the palace, golden seats were placed,", "With gold-embroidered cushions richly graced."]}, {"id": "E5.22.4", "lines": ["They reared an ivory throne within the hall,", "Where sat the captain, raised above them all;"]}, {"id": "E5.22.5", "lines": ["He wore Siavash’s crown of ancient gold,", "And held his court like sovereigns of old!"]}, {"id": "E5.22.6", "lines": ["The chief scribe watched Bahram Chubin, and knew", "His boldness, strength, and royal hunger grew."]}, {"id": "E5.22.7", "lines": ["He went and told Kharrad what he had seen,", "Both sight and rumor, all that it could mean."]}, {"id": "E5.22.8", "lines": ["Kharrad, son of Barzin, was racked with pain,", "And saw that patient counsel had proved vain."]}, {"id": "E5.22.9", "lines": ["He whispered: “Noble scribe, heed this alarm;", "Do not despise this brewing cloud of harm!"]}, {"id": "E5.22.10", "lines": ["Our king of kings has acted like a fool,", "And made the spindle-case his scornful tool."]}, {"id": "E5.22.11", "lines": ["He did not know this lion’s heart or mind,", "Nor what fierce temper in him lay confined."]}, {"id": "E5.22.12", "lines": ["We must keep silent here; at night we go", "Before the Shah to tell him what we know.”"]}, {"id": "E5.22.13", "lines": ["Convinced the general plotted for the reign,", "They marked his pride and saw his treason plain;"]}, {"id": "E5.22.14", "lines": ["They weighed the danger, planned a secret flight,", "And slipped away from Balkh beneath the night."]}, {"id": "E5.22.15", "lines": ["The chief soon learned the two had fled away,", "Those prudent men who would no longer stay."]}, {"id": "E5.22.16", "lines": ["He said to bold Yalan-sina, “Now ride;", "Take a full hundred horsemen at your side."]}, {"id": "E5.22.17", "lines": ["Pursue those fugitives upon their way;", "Ride swiftly after them without delay!”"]}, {"id": "E5.22.18", "lines": ["Though Barzin’s crafty son outstripped the chase,", "The burdened scribe was halted in his race:"]}, {"id": "E5.22.19", "lines": ["Yalan-sina assailed him where he turned,", "And seized him like a wolf as anger burned;"]}, {"id": "E5.22.20", "lines": ["He bound his wrists in an unyielding chain,", "And dragged him back to Bahram’s court in pain."]}, {"id": "E5.22.21", "lines": ["He brought him there intending he should die,", "Though no just charge against the scribe could lie."]}, {"id": "E5.22.22", "lines": ["Bahram said, “You have done a foul Div’s deed;", "Why flee without my leave at such great speed?”"]}, {"id": "E5.22.23", "lines": ["The scribe replied: “Kharrad aroused my fear;", "He swore we could no longer linger here!"]}, {"id": "E5.22.24", "lines": ["He warned that when the general claimed the throne,", "His wrath would crush the scribes who served his own."]}, {"id": "E5.22.25", "lines": ["He urged this flight!” Bahram replied: “Just so;", "A prudent soul anticipates each blow.”"]}, {"id": "E5.22.26", "lines": ["He paid the scribe for everything he lost,", "And added gifts beyond the reckoned cost."]}, {"id": "E5.22.27", "lines": ["Then said, “Now tend your office and your pen,", "And never think of flight from here again.”"]}, {"id": "E5.23.1", "lines": ["Kharrad, the son of Barzin, fled; his horse", "Ran to the Shah’s court on a headlong course."]}, {"id": "E5.23.2", "lines": ["He told his news and held no matter back:", "The wood, the meadow, Gur-e-Khar, and track."]}, {"id": "E5.23.3", "lines": ["He spoke of Bahram’s stay, the narrow way,", "The palace shining in the field by day."]}, {"id": "E5.23.4", "lines": ["He told of jeweled throne and crowned queen,", "And slave-girls serving in that hidden scene."]}, {"id": "E5.23.5", "lines": ["He told the Shah whatever he had heard,", "And all he saw, concealing not a word."]}, {"id": "E5.23.6", "lines": ["The Shah received the tale with inward dread,", "And pondered what the High Mobad had said."]}, {"id": "E5.23.7", "lines": ["The omen-reader, too, had warned the throne", "That Bahram would no more its lordship own."]}, {"id": "E5.23.8", "lines": ["At once he called the High Mobad inside;", "Kharrad remained there, seated at his side."]}, {"id": "E5.23.9", "lines": ["He said, “Relate your journey, clear and true;", "Tell every wonder that appeared to you.”"]}, {"id": "E5.23.10", "lines": ["Kharrad obeyed and opened up the tale;", "He told it all, from palace-wall to vale."]}, {"id": "E5.23.11", "lines": ["The Shah then asked the priest, “What does this mean?", "We must discern the truth of what was seen."]}, {"id": "E5.23.12", "lines": ["The Gur-e-Khar that led him through the wood,", "The wilderness where that strange palace stood,"]}, {"id": "E5.23.13", "lines": ["The crowned lady on the seat of gold,", "Her queenly slaves, a wonder to behold;"]}, {"id": "E5.23.14", "lines": ["This tale resembles dreams from ancient lore,", "Or something shaped from stories told before.”"]}, {"id": "E5.23.15", "lines": ["The High Mobad replied before his eyes:", "“That Gur-e-Khar was a Div in disguise."]}, {"id": "E5.23.16", "lines": ["It sought to draw Bahram away from right,", "And turn his heart to mutiny and spite."]}, {"id": "E5.23.17", "lines": ["That palace was a work of magic art;", "The crowned lady was a witch at heart."]}, {"id": "E5.23.18", "lines": ["She showed him crown and throne in royal state,", "To feed his pride and hasten on his fate."]}, {"id": "E5.23.19", "lines": ["He left her palace swollen high with pride;", "No gentle rein will turn his mind aside."]}, {"id": "E5.23.20", "lines": ["Already maddened by the distaff-case,", "A witch’s whispers deepen his disgrace!"]}, {"id": "E5.23.21", "lines": ["It was not wise to send that woman’s dress", "To one so proud, so prone to swift excess!"]}, {"id": "E5.23.22", "lines": ["By this, Iran’s men have withdrawn their trust,", "Their hopes in you have fallen into dust."]}, {"id": "E5.23.23", "lines": ["Devise some way your army to recall", "From Balkh to serve before your palace wall.”"]}, {"id": "E5.23.24", "lines": ["The king repented what his anger chose:", "The cotton and the gaudy women’s clothes."]}, {"id": "E5.23.25", "lines": ["He asked Kharrad, “What do the soldiers say", "Of that crowned lady seen upon the way?”"]}, {"id": "E5.23.26", "lines": ["Kharrad replied, “The army knows her name:", "They call her Bahram’s Luck and praise her fame."]}, {"id": "E5.23.27", "lines": ["They say she sat upon the throne, well dressed,", "Her beauty radiant, her heart at rest.”"]}, {"id": "E5.23.28", "lines": ["The king grew fearful of the coming ill,", "And what revolving fortune might fulfill."]}, {"id": "E5.23.29", "lines": ["Then Bahram sent an envoy to the throne,", "With twelve broad blades of watered steel, well known:"]}, {"id": "E5.23.30", "lines": ["Sharp, venom-tempered swords of deadly light,", "A challenge to the monarch and his might."]}, {"id": "E5.23.31", "lines": ["Hormizd beheld that grim, defiant load,", "And fury through his royal bosom glowed:"]}, {"id": "E5.23.32", "lines": ["He bade smiths take their sledgehammers and smite,", "Till each snapped blade was broken in their sight!"]}, {"id": "E5.23.33", "lines": ["He packed the shattered steel to send away,", "With words of bitter malice and dismay."]}, {"id": "E5.23.34", "lines": ["When Bahram viewed the fragments in the field,", "Those blades destroyed, too fractured now to wield,"]}, {"id": "E5.23.35", "lines": ["His wayward spirit filled with darker thought;", "He called the chiefs to view what had been brought."]}, {"id": "E5.23.36", "lines": ["“Behold the king’s gift; do not count it small:", "It says our force is worthless, one and all."]}, {"id": "E5.23.37", "lines": ["It means no warrior here shall keep his head;", "He marks us all for ruin with the dead.”"]}, {"id": "E5.23.38", "lines": ["The troops considered both the royal deed", "And words their chief had spoken, taking heed."]}, {"id": "E5.23.39", "lines": ["They said, “First came, to heap on us disgrace,", "A distaff and a robe to shame our race."]}, {"id": "E5.23.40", "lines": ["Now broken khanjars come, a darker sign,", "Worse than hard blows or words across the line."]}, {"id": "E5.23.41", "lines": ["May such a Shah no longer hold the throne;", "May all reject him and his name disown."]}, {"id": "E5.23.42", "lines": ["If Bahram, child of Goshnasp’s blood, again", "Should ride to court to serve this Shah of men,"]}, {"id": "E5.23.43", "lines": ["May neither brain nor bone of him remain,", "Nor seed of all his lineage on the plain!”"]}, {"id": "E5.23.44", "lines": ["He heard them, marked how royal wrongs oppressed", "Their grieving hearts, and then the chiefs addressed:"]}, {"id": "E5.23.45", "lines": ["“Stay watchful, clear of mind; Kharrad has shown", "Our hidden matters to the royal throne."]}, {"id": "E5.23.46", "lines": ["Let each devise how best to live this day;", "Renew your pledge to me without delay."]}, {"id": "E5.23.47", "lines": ["Let someone from the troops arise to stand", "Against our foes and guard this threatened band."]}, {"id": "E5.23.48", "lines": ["Else darkness falls upon my life and power,", "The army slack of belt in battle’s hour.”"]}, {"id": "E5.23.49", "lines": ["He chose a new course, vigilant and clear,", "And tried his troops, whose hearts were filled with fear."]}, {"id": "E5.23.50", "lines": ["They ranged across the breadth of his domain,", "To seize the Shah’s dispatches on the plain."]}, {"id": "E5.23.51", "lines": ["No royal letter reached Iranian hands,", "So none would arm to heed the Shah’s commands."]}, {"id": "E5.23.52", "lines": ["A week passed thus; no man throughout the land", "Could read a letter from the monarch’s hand."]}, {"id": "E5.24.1", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin then summoned all his chiefs,", "To voice his secret thoughts and inward griefs."]}, {"id": "E5.24.2", "lines": ["Hamdan Gashasp was there; beside him came", "The ancient scribe, a counselor of fame;"]}, {"id": "E5.24.3", "lines": ["Yalan-sina, renowned in many a fight,", "With valiant Bahram, proved in martial might."]}, {"id": "E5.24.4", "lines": ["That Bahram sprang from Siavash’s seed,", "A warrior known for many a valiant deed."]}, {"id": "E5.24.5", "lines": ["Kanda Gashasp was there, a prudent guide;", "With these Bahram took counsel at his side."]}, {"id": "E5.24.6", "lines": ["They all were lions, men of spear and blade;", "Before those restless chiefs his case he laid."]}, {"id": "E5.24.7", "lines": ["“O famous chiefs whose counsel men require,", "Whose words can kindle judgment into fire,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.8", "lines": ["The Shah is angry with us without cause,", "And turns away from justice and its laws."]}, {"id": "E5.24.9", "lines": ["What will you do? What remedy remains?", "No profit rises now from former pains."]}, {"id": "E5.24.10", "lines": ["Who hides his anguish from the healer’s art", "Will bear a wound that festers in the heart."]}, {"id": "E5.24.11", "lines": ["Small troubles swell beyond a man’s command", "When kept from those who truly understand."]}, {"id": "E5.24.12", "lines": ["I have my private griefs, and I will tell", "The sages where my wounds and sorrows dwell."]}, {"id": "E5.24.13", "lines": ["You know these matters; you have seen the field,", "And can bear witness to the truths revealed."]}, {"id": "E5.24.14", "lines": ["By order of the Shah we left our land,", "With few troops facing one vast hostile band."]}, {"id": "E5.24.15", "lines": ["Though one might live long years beneath the sky,", "No greater foe would ever meet his eye."]}, {"id": "E5.24.16", "lines": ["Had Turk Parmudeh and King Saveh led", "Their troops against Iran, with banners spread,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.17", "lines": ["Our land would then have melted like soft wax", "Before the weight of their combined attacks."]}, {"id": "E5.24.18", "lines": ["And then, when Iran’s royal lands were won,", "They would have marched on Rum beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "E5.24.19", "lines": ["Parmudeh and King Saveh then were shown", "A marvel no one in the world had known."]}, {"id": "E5.24.20", "lines": ["We bore great toil, and when the field was done,", "Left them no elephants, no treasure, none."]}, {"id": "E5.24.21", "lines": ["The Shah has heaped his coffers, and he hoards", "The wealth we won in battle with our swords."]}, {"id": "E5.24.22", "lines": ["Yet now he scorns the troops in bitter spite,", "Though all we did restored his royal right."]}, {"id": "E5.24.23", "lines": ["The work that saved his crown was ours alone;", "No toil of his made that high seat his own."]}, {"id": "E5.24.24", "lines": ["Amid this turmoil, what can now be done", "To free my heart from grief beneath the sun?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.25", "lines": ["You too must seek a path that brings release;", "What remedy can guard your lives and peace?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.26", "lines": ["I have laid bare my heart and freed my soul;", "Now speak of good or ill and state the whole."]}, {"id": "E5.24.27", "lines": ["If any means are known to mind or hand,", "Speak plainly now, and help your captain stand.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.28", "lines": ["Behind the chamber veil, concealed from eyes,", "There dwelt his sister, prudent, brave, and wise:"]}, {"id": "E5.24.29", "lines": ["Fair Gurdiyeh, endowed with noble grace,", "Whom Bahram cherished for her mind and face."]}, {"id": "E5.24.30", "lines": ["When from behind the veil she heard his speech,", "Her anger flared beyond the bounds of reach."]}, {"id": "E5.24.31", "lines": ["She joined the council, tears upon her cheek,", "Her tongue like arrows, sharpened now to speak."]}, {"id": "E5.24.32", "lines": ["Her cheeks were gold with grief, her heart distressed;", "Old words and grievances weighed on her breast."]}, {"id": "E5.24.33", "lines": ["Her brother, when he heard her voice, grew still;", "No answer rose against her forceful will."]}, {"id": "E5.24.34", "lines": ["The Iranians, too, were silent in that place,", "For fear of harm was written on each face."]}, {"id": "E5.24.35", "lines": ["Then Gurdiyeh addressed the warrior train:", "“Illustrious men, why hold your tongues in chain?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.36", "lines": ["You seek for guidance, yet your lips are sealed;", "Why must your anger still be kept concealed?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.37", "lines": ["You are Iran’s great chieftains, brave and wise,", "The foremost lords beneath the turning skies."]}, {"id": "E5.24.38", "lines": ["What do you see within this bloody game?", "What course can save your honor and your name?”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.39", "lines": ["Izad Gashasp, the Pahlevan, replied:", "“O living memory of the brave, our guide,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.40", "lines": ["If every tongue of ours became a sword,", "It would fall back before the words you poured."]}, {"id": "E5.24.41", "lines": ["God made you learned, brave of heart, and wise;", "Your counsel lifts our judgment to the skies."]}, {"id": "E5.24.42", "lines": ["We need not fight like leopards with the world,", "Nor rush where every spear and lance is hurled."]}, {"id": "E5.24.43", "lines": ["No one should seek my counsel from this day;", "My wisdom has no further word to say."]}, {"id": "E5.24.44", "lines": ["If you will fight, I too will lend my hand,", "And meet their horsemen firmly where they stand."]}, {"id": "E5.24.45", "lines": ["If I have pleased the Pahlevan, may youth", "Be his forever, safe from time’s harsh tooth.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.46", "lines": ["Bahram perceived that Izad would not choose,", "But sought a course where neither side could lose."]}, {"id": "E5.24.47", "lines": ["He turned to bold Yalan-sina and said,", "“What thoughts now move beneath your warrior head?”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.48", "lines": ["He answered, “Chief, the walker in God’s way", "Wins fame and wisdom, clear as break of day."]}, {"id": "E5.24.49", "lines": ["He gains his wish and victory through grace,", "But must not rush toward evil or disgrace."]}, {"id": "E5.24.50", "lines": ["For evil turns a blessing to a curse,", "And circling heaven may answer with worse."]}, {"id": "E5.24.51", "lines": ["God gave you grace and fortune, might full-grown,", "With wealth and power no rival could have known."]}, {"id": "E5.24.52", "lines": ["If you give thanks, your gifts He will increase;", "Through thanklessness the heart will lose its peace.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.53", "lines": ["Bahram then turned to Bahram, wise in thought,", "His prudent friend, whose counsel had been sought."]}, {"id": "E5.24.54", "lines": ["“What say you of this quest for wealth and state?", "Will royal greatness come, or grief await?”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.55", "lines": ["He laughed to hear them weigh so grave a thing,", "Then tossed into the air his signet-ring:"]}, {"id": "E5.24.56", "lines": ["“As long as this gold ring remains in air,", "So long a subject may the diadem wear!”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.57", "lines": ["The captain frowned: “You make the crown too small;", "It is no trivial honor, once for all!”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.58", "lines": ["Then Bahram bade bold Kanda Gashasp bare", "His mind: “O lion, sword in hand, declare:"]}, {"id": "E5.24.59", "lines": ["What do you see and say of our affair?", "Do we deserve the royal throne to share?”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.60", "lines": ["That Pahlevan replied, “O living light", "Of heroes famed for courage in the fight,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.61", "lines": ["A Mobad once at Rey declared this thing:", "‘To reign a moment as a mighty king,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.62", "lines": ["Then let the soul to heaven take its flight,", "Is better than long years of servile plight,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.63", "lines": ["And waiting, needy, at the royal door", "To beg the sovereign’s treasure evermore.’”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.64", "lines": ["Then to the chief scribe Bahram turned his face:", "“Old wolf, now speak your counsel in this place.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.65", "lines": ["The chief scribe sat awhile and held his peace,", "Amid a crowd of thoughts that would not cease."]}, {"id": "E5.24.66", "lines": ["Then said, “Who rightly seeks his heart’s desire", "May gain the very thing he would acquire."]}, {"id": "E5.24.67", "lines": ["Time’s arm is long; with all that God has willed,", "A man may see his striving’s aim fulfilled.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.68", "lines": ["The chieftain turned to Hamdan Gashasp then:", "“You know how Fortune lifts and humbles men;"]}, {"id": "E5.24.69", "lines": ["Whatever you shall utter in our hall", "Will be as wind and do no hurt at all."]}, {"id": "E5.24.70", "lines": ["Advise us in this test of good and ill,", "While Fate advances toward its hidden will.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.71", "lines": ["Great Hamdan answered, “Prized among the great,", "Why fear an evil not yet born of fate?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.72", "lines": ["Why ask so much concerning crown and reign?", "Act first, and leave the rest to God’s domain."]}, {"id": "E5.24.73", "lines": ["Why reach to pluck the date with such alarm", "If fear of thorns already binds your arm?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.74", "lines": ["The leader of a people finds no rest;", "His mind knows fear; care weighs upon his breast.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.75", "lines": ["The captain’s sister writhed at what they said,", "And clouds of grief and anger filled her head."]}, {"id": "E5.24.76", "lines": ["Yet in that long debate she spoke no word,", "From sun’s decline till midnight’s hush was heard."]}, {"id": "E5.24.77", "lines": ["Then Bahram asked, “Fair lady, make it clear:", "What judgment have you drawn from all you hear?”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.78", "lines": ["But Gurdiyeh answered nothing in that hour;", "His counsel seemed to her a poisoned flower."]}, {"id": "E5.24.79", "lines": ["Then to the chief scribe she directed speech:", "“O harmful man, old wolf beyond all reach,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.80", "lines": ["So you conceive the crown and royal seat,", "Ranks, wealth, and Fortune’s force beneath one’s feet,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.81", "lines": ["Were never sought by nobles, wise and great?", "Do you think service harder than the state?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.82", "lines": ["If ruling seems the easier in your eyes,", "Your wisdom warrants tears, not our surprise."]}, {"id": "E5.24.83", "lines": ["Let us recall the precedents of kings,", "And hear what ancient, nobler counsel brings.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.84", "lines": ["The chief scribe answered, “If my counsel fails", "Then follow yours wherever it prevails."]}, {"id": "E5.24.85", "lines": ["Speak, act, and do whatever art may guide;", "Follow your heart and let that heart decide.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.86", "lines": ["Then to self-willed Bahram his sister turned;", "Her words were sharp; within, her sorrow burned."]}, {"id": "E5.24.87", "lines": ["“Your knowledge and your counsel are not good;", "Your steps now lead through treachery’s dark wood."]}, {"id": "E5.24.88", "lines": ["Full many times the Shah’s throne has been bare,", "Yet no great chief looked on that seat to share."]}, {"id": "E5.24.89", "lines": ["Their task was guarding earth by valor’s hand,", "Not taking seats they were not born to command."]}, {"id": "E5.24.90", "lines": ["They knew that kingship was the higher place,", "And better than subjection and disgrace."]}, {"id": "E5.24.91", "lines": ["They did not aim at throne or crown’s embrace;", "They armed themselves to serve with loyal grace."]}, {"id": "E5.24.92", "lines": ["They sought their sovereigns’ welfare, heart and hand,", "And served with truth the masters of the land."]}, {"id": "E5.24.93", "lines": ["No stranger to the royal line should reign;", "By noble birth a man that height may gain."]}, {"id": "E5.24.94", "lines": ["First hear the tale of noble Shah Kavus,", "Whose troubled will let reckless longing loose."]}, {"id": "E5.24.95", "lines": ["He sought to probe God’s mysteries on high,", "To count the stars and walk across the sky."]}, {"id": "E5.24.96", "lines": ["But through perverse desire and reckless pride,", "At Sari he was shamed and cast aside."]}, {"id": "E5.24.97", "lines": ["Yet old Gudarz and Rostam, battle-wise,", "Did not seize throne or let rebellion rise."]}, {"id": "E5.24.98", "lines": ["And later, when Kavus went far away,", "To Hamavaran, where in chains he lay,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.99", "lines": ["No loyal Iranian sought to seize the crown;", "They showed but grief, and laid their sorrow down."]}, {"id": "E5.24.100", "lines": ["When Iranians told Rostam, ‘You are fit", "To claim the golden throne and sit on it,’"]}, {"id": "E5.24.101", "lines": ["He rounded on the speaker, fierce and grim:", "‘May the cold grave be all that waits for him."]}, {"id": "E5.24.102", "lines": ["Shall I sit crowned on gold while Shahs are bound?", "Let kingship perish, buried underground."]}, {"id": "E5.24.103", "lines": ["Let crown and throne be ruined root and stem,", "Before I shame my lord by claiming them.’"]}, {"id": "E5.24.104", "lines": ["He chose twelve thousand horsemen at command,", "World-conquering riders from Iran’s broad land."]}, {"id": "E5.24.105", "lines": ["Their steeds in bargostvan, an iron wave,", "And freed Kavus, with Tus and Giv the brave."]}, {"id": "E5.24.106", "lines": ["With them Gudarz was freed from captive night,", "And honor filled Iran with renewed light."]}, {"id": "E5.24.107", "lines": ["Then when Pirooz was slain and hope was lost,", "And all Iran had reckoned up the cost,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.108", "lines": ["While Khoshnavaz, emboldened by their plight,", "Sat calmly on the throne in royal might,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.109", "lines": ["There came Sofrye, of Gharan’s noble line,", "To raise the throne again by clear design."]}, {"id": "E5.24.110", "lines": ["When his success was plain before the land,", "The nobles came to hail his royal hand."]}, {"id": "E5.24.111", "lines": ["They wished to make him monarch of the earth,", "Though but a subject, proven high in worth."]}, {"id": "E5.24.112", "lines": ["He told them, ‘Such a deed would bring disgrace;", "The crown belongs to those of royal race."]}, {"id": "E5.24.113", "lines": ["Although Qobad is young, the child will grow;", "The wolf must not be placed where lions go."]}, {"id": "E5.24.114", "lines": ["To crown a man who lacks the royal blood", "Would drown his kin in shame as in a flood.’"]}, {"id": "E5.24.115", "lines": ["When young Qobad reached manhood, fate grew grim;", "He saw Sofrye stood high in rank by him."]}, {"id": "E5.24.116", "lines": ["He had Sofrye, by wicked counsel, slain,", "The state’s strong pillar, guardian of the reign."]}, {"id": "E5.24.117", "lines": ["The army rose against Qobad that day,", "And set Jamasp upon the throne to stay."]}, {"id": "E5.24.118", "lines": ["The people then put bold Qobad in chains,", "That horseman born to rule Iran’s domains."]}, {"id": "E5.24.119", "lines": ["They gave him to Rizmehr, that he might take", "Revenge upon him for his father’s sake."]}, {"id": "E5.24.120", "lines": ["Rizmehr saw none more worthy of the crown", "Than royal-born Qobad, though then cast down."]}, {"id": "E5.24.121", "lines": ["He freed him so that he could press his claim,", "And rise again in kingship and in name."]}, {"id": "E5.24.122", "lines": ["No subject dared aspire to crown or throne,", "Though many had proud birth and worth well known."]}, {"id": "E5.24.123", "lines": ["When from the Turks the man called Saveh came", "To seek the crown and seal with royal aim,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.124", "lines": ["The glorious Maker ordered that his head", "Should fall in Iran, and his pride be dead."]}, {"id": "E5.24.125", "lines": ["Why should a subject seek the royal throne,", "And covet all the kingdom for his own?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.126", "lines": ["Yalan-sina spurs his horse, as though to say,", "‘I raise to kingship, winning fame this way,"]}, {"id": "E5.24.127", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin, sprung from Goshnasp’s line,", "And make my name through future ages shine.’"]}, {"id": "E5.24.128", "lines": ["Wise Anooshirvan, aged and glory-crowned,", "Found youth renewed when Hormizd stood renowned."]}, {"id": "E5.24.129", "lines": ["All nobles of this realm uphold his reign;", "They serve his will through every hill and plain."]}, {"id": "E5.24.130", "lines": ["He has three hundred thousand at command,", "Famed horsemen, lances, swords, and spears in hand."]}, {"id": "E5.24.131", "lines": ["His bold men heed his will and keep their place,", "Yet he chose you by royal right and grace."]}, {"id": "E5.24.132", "lines": ["He raised your ancestors to noble height,", "And let them triumph over hostile might."]}, {"id": "E5.24.133", "lines": ["Will you repay his good with evil now?", "Know evil will return upon your brow."]}, {"id": "E5.24.134", "lines": ["Design no evil, brother; every wrong", "Returns upon the doer before long."]}, {"id": "E5.24.135", "lines": ["Make greed no lord above your heart and head,", "Or sages will withdraw the praise they spread."]}, {"id": "E5.24.136", "lines": ["Though I am young, a woman at your side,", "Still hear the wiser path my words provide."]}, {"id": "E5.24.137", "lines": ["Do not cast all your fathers’ deeds away;", "May you not rue these words some future day.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.138", "lines": ["The assembly marveled at her speech and mind;", "The chieftain bit his lip, with rage confined."]}, {"id": "E5.24.139", "lines": ["He knew her words were just and sought the right,", "A path of honor clear before his sight."]}, {"id": "E5.24.140", "lines": ["Yalan-sina answered, “Fair lady, cease", "To vex the warriors’ counsel and their peace."]}, {"id": "E5.24.141", "lines": ["Hormizd will pass, and soon your brother’s hand", "Will hold the throne and rule the royal land."]}, {"id": "E5.24.142", "lines": ["Since he is what he is in force and fame,", "Count him already king in deed and name."]}, {"id": "E5.24.143", "lines": ["If Hormizd claims the crown and royal gift,", "Why send the cotton and the distaff shift?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.144", "lines": ["The Pahlevan, a lion fierce and strong,", "Makes earth itself quake as he strides along."]}, {"id": "E5.24.145", "lines": ["Had his good sword stayed sleeping in its sheath,", "The Shah and Iran had been ground beneath."]}, {"id": "E5.24.146", "lines": ["Iran itself had bowed to foreign tread,", "Yet he was sent a woman’s shift instead."]}, {"id": "E5.24.147", "lines": ["Shame on this faithless king! Speak so no more", "Of Turk-born Hormizd and his hoarded store!"]}, {"id": "E5.24.148", "lines": ["Five hundred years that line has held the throne,", "And claimed the world’s dominion for their own;"]}, {"id": "E5.24.149", "lines": ["Now let the crown from Sasan’s lineage pass,", "Whose fame has withered like the summer grass!"]}, {"id": "E5.24.150", "lines": ["Think not of Khosrow Parviz; let his name", "Be heard no more; it merits no acclaim."]}, {"id": "E5.24.151", "lines": ["The men most close to him within his court", "Will serve your brother and his word support."]}, {"id": "E5.24.152", "lines": ["At Bahram’s word they will bind him in place,", "And heap upon his head that deep disgrace.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.153", "lines": ["Then Gurdiyeh said, “The Black Div spreads his snare;", "Destroy us not through boasting filled with air."]}, {"id": "E5.24.154", "lines": ["I see in you but wind and empty show;", "Our father served as frontier lord long ago."]}, {"id": "E5.24.155", "lines": ["At Rey he kept the frontier, not the crown;", "Why stir our kindred toward a false renown?"]}, {"id": "E5.24.156", "lines": ["Your words will cast our labor all away,", "And bring our ruined house a darker day."]}, {"id": "E5.24.157", "lines": ["Base lackey, you would lead him into shame,", "And turn our peaceful days to strife and flame.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.158", "lines": ["She spoke and left in tears, estranged in heart;", "Her brother’s path and hers now lay apart."]}, {"id": "E5.24.159", "lines": ["The assembly praised that saintly woman’s art,", "The eloquence and sense she could impart."]}, {"id": "E5.24.160", "lines": ["They said, “Her words seem read from wisdom’s page;", "She outshines Jamasp, that renowned sage.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.161", "lines": ["But Bahram was displeased by what she said;", "Her warning circled darkly in his head."]}, {"id": "E5.24.162", "lines": ["In long reflection, fevered dreams had shown", "Him throned and crowned, the realm and power his own."]}, {"id": "E5.24.163", "lines": ["He said, “Through toil alone the bold may win", "This fleeting world and seize its prize within.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.164", "lines": ["He bade them spread the board and pour the wine,", "And called for harp and minstrel-songs divine."]}, {"id": "E5.24.165", "lines": ["“Sing only Seven Stages; let it flow,", "And tell how Esfandiyar struck his blow"]}, {"id": "E5.24.166", "lines": ["Within the Ruyin Dezh in days gone by.”", "They drank to Rey and raised its praises high."]}, {"id": "E5.24.167", "lines": ["“May Rey endure; may God cause it to yield", "More captains like yourself to rule the field.”"]}, {"id": "E5.24.168", "lines": ["They scattered when the daylight ceased to shine,", "Their heads bewildered by the strength of wine."]}, {"id": "E5.25.1", "lines": ["When rising sun shot out its beams of gold,", "The sickly night withdrew its darkened fold."]}, {"id": "E5.25.2", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin, the mighty chief of war,", "Called for the chief scribe, as he had before."]}, {"id": "E5.25.3", "lines": ["They wrote the Khan a letter richly dressed,", "Perfumed and bright, with Artang’s skill impressed."]}, {"id": "E5.25.4", "lines": ["“I seek your pardon for the harm I brought;", "My heart is full of sighs and troubled thought."]}, {"id": "E5.25.5", "lines": ["From this day on, your marches I shall guard,", "And for your sake keep watch with due regard."]}, {"id": "E5.25.6", "lines": ["If kingship of the earth should come to me,", "Your younger brother I shall always be."]}, {"id": "E5.25.7", "lines": ["Wash vengeance from your heart; let hatred cease,", "And join Iran and Chin in lasting peace."]}, {"id": "E5.25.8", "lines": ["Do not keep former wrongs within your mind;", "God pardons slaves and leaves their faults behind."]}, {"id": "E5.25.9", "lines": ["All blessings on your judgment and your reign,", "Your honored place and far-renowned domain.”"]}, {"id": "E5.25.10", "lines": ["He spoke much more; the envoy rode away", "As swift as wind, and hastened on his way."]}, {"id": "E5.25.11", "lines": ["The Khan received him, praised him at the court;", "He gave the letter, adding his report."]}, {"id": "E5.25.12", "lines": ["The Khan rejoiced, and further gifts bestowed,", "And wrote an answer for the homeward road."]}, {"id": "E5.25.13", "lines": ["He sent Bahram rich gifts to cheer his heart;", "Then Bahram turned to other schemes and art."]}, {"id": "E5.25.14", "lines": ["He threw his vaults wide open, and outpoured", "Among his troops the riches of his hoard."]}, {"id": "E5.25.15", "lines": ["He gave them coins and steeds and slaves beside,", "While royal hopes swelled higher in his pride."]}, {"id": "E5.25.16", "lines": ["He chose a Pahlevan to take command", "Of Khorasan, and guard that borderland."]}, {"id": "E5.25.17", "lines": ["With Nishapur and Balkh his charge, he set", "In Marv and Herat troops to meet each threat."]}, {"id": "E5.25.18", "lines": ["On Khordad day, within the month of Dey,", "He left Balkh, deep in thought, and rode to Rey."]}, {"id": "E5.25.19", "lines": ["He weighed the gains and losses in his mind,", "Then bade them build a mint as he designed."]}, {"id": "E5.25.20", "lines": ["They struck fresh dinars with inscription clear,", "And made Prince Khosrow’s royal name appear:"]}, {"id": "E5.25.21", "lines": ["The portrait of the youth upon the face,", "Proclaiming him the ruler of the race!"]}, {"id": "E5.25.22", "lines": ["He chose a merchant of discerning wit,", "Eloquent, shrewd, and for his purpose fit;"]}, {"id": "E5.25.23", "lines": ["He gave him laden bags to bear away", "To Tisfoon’s marts without the least delay:"]}, {"id": "E5.25.24", "lines": ["“Spend all this gold on Roman silk,” he said,", "“And fine brocades with glittering figures spread;"]}, {"id": "E5.25.25", "lines": ["Disperse the coins until they reach the throne,", "And let the Shah believe his realm outgrown!”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.1", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin chose a prudent man,", "Brave as Soroush, to carry out his plan."]}, {"id": "E5.26.2", "lines": ["He wrote a blustering letter, long and wide,", "Of Saveh’s force and proud Parmudeh’s pride."]}, {"id": "E5.26.3", "lines": ["He told how he and all his troops had fought,", "And of the royal gifts that war had brought."]}, {"id": "E5.26.4", "lines": ["He named the black spindle case and the shame", "The woman’s coif had brought upon his name."]}, {"id": "E5.26.5", "lines": ["“You shall not see me, even in a dream;", "Pull back your fishing hook from out the stream."]}, {"id": "E5.26.6", "lines": ["When high-born Khosrow Parviz takes the throne,", "I shall obey no order but his own."]}, {"id": "E5.26.7", "lines": ["I shall lay mountains low, make summits fall,", "Flood sands with foes like Jihun at his call."]}, {"id": "E5.26.8", "lines": ["Though young, his wisdom fits him well to rule;", "You show no more discernment than a fool."]}, {"id": "E5.26.9", "lines": ["I have accepted him as king of kings,", "And serve no other lord beneath heaven’s wings.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.10", "lines": ["He wished the king would put his son to death,", "Though innocent, and stop his royal breath."]}, {"id": "E5.26.11", "lines": ["He feared the prince, whose charm could draw men near,", "And set these words down for the Shah to hear."]}, {"id": "E5.26.12", "lines": ["He told the merchant, “When the Shah has seen", "These coins, he will lament what they may mean."]}, {"id": "E5.26.13", "lines": ["Without his son to stand beside his throne,", "He will confront my onslaught on his own."]}, {"id": "E5.26.14", "lines": ["I shall cast deference aside and rend", "The roots of Sasan till their line shall end."]}, {"id": "E5.26.15", "lines": ["God did not make the earth for them to reign", "Alone; their blessing must no more remain.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.16", "lines": ["The envoy rode with noblemen from Rey;", "To Tisfoon’s royal court they made their way."]}, {"id": "E5.26.17", "lines": ["When Hormizd took the letter in his hand,", "He paled to read what Bahram Chubin planned."]}, {"id": "E5.26.18", "lines": ["Then word of new-struck coinage reached his ear,", "And grief on grief increased his doubt and fear."]}, {"id": "E5.26.19", "lines": ["He writhed and turned suspicion on his son,", "And told Ayin Gashasp what had been done."]}, {"id": "E5.26.20", "lines": ["“Khosrow Parviz has grown too bold,” he said;", "“He seeks revolt and raises high his head."]}, {"id": "E5.26.21", "lines": ["His name on newly minted coins is clear;", "Could he despise me more or show less fear?”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.22", "lines": ["Ayin Gashasp replied, “Without you, sire,", "May field and horse elude his heart’s desire."]}, {"id": "E5.26.23", "lines": ["Your son Khosrow has wandered far astray;", "He has no right to act in such a way.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.24", "lines": ["Hormizd replied, “That upstart soon shall fall;", "He shall not see my blow approach at all.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.25", "lines": ["That lord replied, “While you are living, may", "No foe attain his wish or win the day.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.26", "lines": ["One night, in secret, they called one man near,", "And brought him close, the Shah’s command to hear."]}, {"id": "E5.26.27", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Khosrow must be put to death;", "Obey my order: take his final breath.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.28", "lines": ["He answered, “I shall drive love from my heart;", "Send me your poison; I shall play my part."]}, {"id": "E5.26.29", "lines": ["Some dark night, when he is drunk, I shall pour", "Poison in his wine; he will drink no more."]}, {"id": "E5.26.30", "lines": ["Far better thus to take his life,” he said,", "“Than stain my hands with blood that I have shed.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.31", "lines": ["The son, still unaware of what was planned,", "Sat glorious in his palace, cup in hand."]}, {"id": "E5.26.32", "lines": ["With charming idols and delightful wine,", "He passed his days, blind to the dark design."]}, {"id": "E5.26.33", "lines": ["Two days each week he rode out to the chase,", "A brave young horseman, full of charm and grace."]}, {"id": "E5.26.34", "lines": ["For God had willed that Khosrow’s crown should rise", "For many years beyond the moonlit skies."]}, {"id": "E5.26.35", "lines": ["A chamberlain caught wind of that dark deed,", "And cast aside both sleep and every need."]}, {"id": "E5.26.36", "lines": ["He hurried to Khosrow and made it clear:", "The king was plotting murder out of fear."]}, {"id": "E5.26.37", "lines": ["He learned the plot and fled that very night;", "He left Tisfoon and vanished out of sight."]}, {"id": "E5.26.38", "lines": ["He saved his precious head and spurred his steed", "To Azar Abadagan at great speed."]}, {"id": "E5.26.39", "lines": ["When tidings of his coming filled the air,", "The frontier lords rose up with loyal care."]}, {"id": "E5.26.40", "lines": ["They said, “Khosrow, aggrieved by royal spite,", "Has fled with only a few men in flight.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.41", "lines": ["They sought the well-loved prince along his road;", "From all the northern keeps the nobles flowed."]}, {"id": "E5.26.42", "lines": ["The border marshals gathered round and said:", "“The royal crown befits your youthful head!"]}, {"id": "E5.26.43", "lines": ["The throne and helm are yours by right and grace;", "Iran and desert spearmen seek your face."]}, {"id": "E5.26.44", "lines": ["Whatever swordsmen, chiefs, and men you need", "Will gather at your call, each on his steed."]}, {"id": "E5.26.45", "lines": ["Your farr will lead the army. Fear no blow;", "Live great and glad, beloved by high and low."]}, {"id": "E5.26.46", "lines": ["At times we shall ride hunting through the land,", "Or we before Azargashasp shall stand,"]}, {"id": "E5.26.47", "lines": ["And pray as all our fathers prayed of old,", "Before the fire whose rites we still uphold."]}, {"id": "E5.26.48", "lines": ["Though all Iran’s three hundred thousand ride", "To cast you down, we stand upon your side."]}, {"id": "E5.26.49", "lines": ["Our lives we shall give for you on the field,", "And honor those whose lives become your shield.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.50", "lines": ["He said, “I fear the Shah and all his men;", "Give me your oath, and I shall trust you then."]}, {"id": "E5.26.51", "lines": ["Come first before Azargashasp and take", "An oath, and give a pledge you will not break."]}, {"id": "E5.26.52", "lines": ["Then I shall stay, assured of where you stand,", "And fear no Ahriman within this land.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.53", "lines": ["The warriors, hearing him, all duly came", "To swear before Azargashasp’s bright flame."]}, {"id": "E5.26.54", "lines": ["They swore the oath he asked with solemn breath:", "“We prize your love and serve you to the death.”"]}, {"id": "E5.26.55", "lines": ["Assured of all the chiefs, he, still aware", "Of peril, sent his spies out everywhere,"]}, {"id": "E5.26.56", "lines": ["To learn what Hormizd said, and to report", "What fresh designs were forming at his court."]}, {"id": "E5.26.57", "lines": ["When Hormizd heard that Khosrow Parviz fled,", "Revenge and fury filled his royal head."]}, {"id": "E5.26.58", "lines": ["He ordered Bandvi and Gostaham bound tight,", "Both uncles of the prince by mother’s right."]}, {"id": "E5.26.59", "lines": ["The prince’s other kin, apart from these,", "Were dragged to prison by the king’s decrees."]}, {"id": "E5.27.1", "lines": ["Then to Ayin Gashasp the Shah replied:", "“We lack sound counsel, with the wind allied."]}, {"id": "E5.27.2", "lines": ["Now that my son has fled, what shall we do", "With Bahram, self-willed slave and rebel too?”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.3", "lines": ["Ayin Gashasp then sought a fitting way", "To make his counsel pleasing on that day."]}, {"id": "E5.27.4", "lines": ["“Exalted Shah, Bahram has often said", "That most of all he longs to see me dead."]}, {"id": "E5.27.5", "lines": ["I first provoked his anger; send me bound,", "And some advantage may for you be found.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.6", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “I will not act that way;", "This is the course that Ahriman would lay."]}, {"id": "E5.27.7", "lines": ["I will send forces under your command;", "Go forth to battle; show your fighting hand."]}, {"id": "E5.27.8", "lines": ["But first send one adviser from our side", "To learn what purpose in his heart may hide."]}, {"id": "E5.27.9", "lines": ["If crown and throne and power are his aim,", "Then Fortune will desert him and his claim."]}, {"id": "E5.27.10", "lines": ["But if he still will serve beneath my reign,", "A peaceful end will follow all his pain."]}, {"id": "E5.27.11", "lines": ["I shall give him a portion of the earth,", "And set a hero’s crown upon his worth."]}, {"id": "E5.27.12", "lines": ["The world has hardly such a warrior known,", "But, though like Rostam, he is still my own."]}, {"id": "E5.27.13", "lines": ["Report his conduct, every word and act;", "Make no delay; send back each certain fact.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.14", "lines": ["Ayin Gashasp obeyed the Shah’s command,", "And took the charge the monarch now had planned."]}, {"id": "E5.27.15", "lines": ["There was a captive held in royal chain,", "His fellow townsman, all consumed by pain."]}, {"id": "E5.27.16", "lines": ["He heard Ayin Gashasp would leave the court,", "And sent a messenger to seek support:"]}, {"id": "E5.27.17", "lines": ["“O battle-loving chief, now hear my prayer;", "Your fellow townsman suffers in despair."]}, {"id": "E5.27.18", "lines": ["You know me, surely; ask the king for me,", "And let me join your force when I am free."]}, {"id": "E5.27.19", "lines": ["I shall march with you, fight before your eyes,", "And risk my life where battle’s dangers rise.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.20", "lines": ["Ayin Gashasp sent word before the throne,", "And made his plea for that poor captive known:"]}, {"id": "E5.27.21", "lines": ["“A man from my own town is bound in chains,", "In fear and peril, crushed by all his pains."]}, {"id": "E5.27.22", "lines": ["He will march with me if you set him free,", "And grant this captive’s service now to me.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.23", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “What fighting can he do,", "This worthless wretch who seeks to ride with you?"]}, {"id": "E5.27.24", "lines": ["You ask a thief and murderer to fight;", "What gain do you expect from such a blight?"]}, {"id": "E5.27.25", "lines": ["Yet now I cannot turn aside your plea,", "Though none could be a greater scourge than he.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.26", "lines": ["He gave Ayin Gashasp that man of ill,", "That thief and murderer with a hardened will."]}, {"id": "E5.27.27", "lines": ["Ayin Gashasp brought out his whole array,", "And drove them like the wind along the way."]}, {"id": "E5.27.28", "lines": ["He reached Hamadan, pitched his camp, and cried:", "“What learned star-readers in this place reside?”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.29", "lines": ["They said, “Whoever reads the stars may hear", "Your summons, come, and earn your favor here."]}, {"id": "E5.27.30", "lines": ["There is an aged wealthy dame whose sight", "Can read the stars and bring their truths to light."]}, {"id": "E5.27.31", "lines": ["You might call her the eye of heaven’s sphere;", "What she foretells will prove both true and clear.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.32", "lines": ["Ayin Gashasp sent both a man and steed", "To fetch the woman for his hidden need."]}, {"id": "E5.27.33", "lines": ["He asked what fate the Shah would have to bear,", "And how the army’s leader soon would fare."]}, {"id": "E5.27.34", "lines": ["Then said, “Bring close your lips beside my ear;", "Tell me what fate awaits my body here."]}, {"id": "E5.27.35", "lines": ["Will my soul leave my swarthy frame in bed,", "Or will a foeman’s weapon strike me dead?”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.36", "lines": ["While thus he whispered secrets to the crone,", "So low that none could hear a single tone,"]}, {"id": "E5.27.37", "lines": ["The man for whom he begged release passed through,", "Looked at the chief, then went beyond their view."]}, {"id": "E5.27.38", "lines": ["The ancient woman watched him disappear,", "Then asked, “Who is that man who just passed here?"]}, {"id": "E5.27.39", "lines": ["His blow will bring you death, and men will weep;", "Your life is in his hands to take or keep."]}, {"id": "E5.27.40", "lines": ["May skin and marrow rot within that man;", "His hand will close the measure of your span.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.41", "lines": ["At this, Ayin Gashasp recalled the lore", "That star-readers had told him once before."]}, {"id": "E5.27.42", "lines": ["He tried to put their warning from his mind:", "“A neighbor’s hand will kill you, you will find.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.43", "lines": ["“A worthless rogue will spill your blood,” they said,", "“Far on the road, despite the tears you shed.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.44", "lines": ["He wrote the Shah: “The rogue I asked you for", "Is dragon-spawn, unsuited for this war;"]}, {"id": "E5.27.45", "lines": ["As soon as he presents this letter, slay", "That serpent; strike his head from trunk away.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.46", "lines": ["He stamped the royal wax with secret care,", "Then called the youth with false and friendly air;"]}, {"id": "E5.27.47", "lines": ["He praised him much and gave him gifts beside,", "With hearty blessings offered to his pride."]}, {"id": "E5.27.48", "lines": ["Then said, “Convey this letter with all speed,", "In secret, for the Shah himself to read."]}, {"id": "E5.27.49", "lines": ["Bring his reply to me without delay,", "And do not linger at the court or stay.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.50", "lines": ["The young man took the letter from his chief;", "His mind filled up with questions, doubt, and grief."]}, {"id": "E5.27.51", "lines": ["He said, “I have endured enough in chains,", "With prison, heavy bonds, and hungry pains."]}, {"id": "E5.27.52", "lines": ["God freed me from distress and evil fate,", "From grief and want inside that narrow gate."]}, {"id": "E5.27.53", "lines": ["Yet now, if I return to Tisfoon’s walls,", "My blood and marrow boil at what befalls.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.54", "lines": ["He traveled sadly for a little way,", "Then broke the seal and read what it would say."]}, {"id": "E5.27.55", "lines": ["He marveled at the world’s strange turning round,", "And at the treachery within it found."]}, {"id": "E5.27.56", "lines": ["“My neighbor saved my life, and used to preach", "That noble men should act as he would teach."]}, {"id": "E5.27.57", "lines": ["Why does he now insist upon my blood,", "Unless some dream has stirred this evil flood?"]}, {"id": "E5.27.58", "lines": ["Now he shall see the road to bloodshed plain,", "And rest from toil, endeavor, fear, and pain.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.59", "lines": ["He turned and sped back like the driven blast,", "With death and anger in his heart held fast."]}, {"id": "E5.27.60", "lines": ["He reached the camp; no helper could be found.", "The chief sat in his tent, with none around."]}, {"id": "E5.27.61", "lines": ["No aide was there, no scimitar or steed;", "He brooded on the Shah and Fortune’s deed."]}, {"id": "E5.27.62", "lines": ["When that freed neighbor stepped inside the tent,", "Ayin Gashasp knew what his purpose meant."]}, {"id": "E5.27.63", "lines": ["The murderer drew his scimitar to fight;", "The chief implored him, shaken at the sight."]}, {"id": "E5.27.64", "lines": ["“Deluded one, did I not beg your life,", "And free you from your chains and prison strife?”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.65", "lines": ["The other said, “Granted. What have I done", "That you should seek my death beneath the sun?”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.66", "lines": ["He struck the noble captain’s head away;", "His feasts and battles ended on that day."]}, {"id": "E5.27.67", "lines": ["He bore the bloody head out from the tent;", "No soldier knew the captain’s life was spent."]}, {"id": "E5.27.68", "lines": ["Let him who seeks for honor never stand", "Alone in wartime, far from every hand."]}, {"id": "E5.27.69", "lines": ["The miscreant left the murdered chief behind,", "And sped to Bahram, death upon his mind."]}, {"id": "E5.27.70", "lines": ["“See your foe’s head,” he cried, “the man who came", "To harm you, unaware of your true aim.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.71", "lines": ["“Who is this? Whose head lies here?” Bahram said;", "“Who mourns this Pahlevan now he is dead?”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.72", "lines": ["He said, “Ayin Gashasp, who left the court", "To lead the army as the Shah’s support.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.73", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “The Shah sent him to me", "To make our peace, that righteous man you see."]}, {"id": "E5.27.74", "lines": ["You took his head by stealth; now you shall pay,", "And all will weep to see your final day.”"]}, {"id": "E5.27.75", "lines": ["He had a gallows raised beside his gate,", "And hanged the wretch alive to meet his fate."]}, {"id": "E5.27.76", "lines": ["The sight made wicked men recoil in dread;", "Ayin Gashasp’s whole force in panic fled!"]}, {"id": "E5.27.77", "lines": ["Bereft of leader, all their ranks were rent:", "A faction rode to Bahram’s rebel tent;"]}, {"id": "E5.27.78", "lines": ["A portion fled to Khosrow’s camp in fear;", "While some to Tisfoon brought the tidings clear."]}, {"id": "E5.27.79", "lines": ["Like sheep that lack a shepherd’s watchful care,", "They scattered wide before the winter air."]}, {"id": "E5.28.1", "lines": ["When news arrived that his great chief was dead,", "The Shah closed court and bowed his grieving head."]}, {"id": "E5.28.2", "lines": ["No man saw him lift wine to ease his grief;", "He neither ate nor slept, nor found relief."]}, {"id": "E5.28.3", "lines": ["His eyes were full of tears, his heart was wrung;", "And how he shunned them passed from tongue to tongue."]}, {"id": "E5.28.4", "lines": ["One said, “Bahram Chubin now seeks the fight,", "And longs to seize the throne and royal right.”"]}, {"id": "E5.28.5", "lines": ["One said, “The Shah has stirred his son to wrath;", "Now Khosrow’s troops take the Iranian path.”"]}, {"id": "E5.28.6", "lines": ["The warriors were confounded by the case;", "Each held a different counsel in that place."]}, {"id": "E5.28.7", "lines": ["As rumors spread throughout Tisfoon, his fame", "And royal credit withered with his name."]}, {"id": "E5.28.8", "lines": ["His servants’ hearts were filled with grief and wrath,", "And curses, not their blessings, marked his path."]}, {"id": "E5.28.9", "lines": ["Few troops remained beside the palace gate;", "The Shah’s heart felt the world’s constricting weight."]}, {"id": "E5.28.10", "lines": ["Then word reached Gostaham, with Bandvi near,", "That royal farr had darkened, once so clear."]}, {"id": "E5.28.11", "lines": ["The captive uncles bribed the prison guard,", "And burst the heavy doors they kept so barred;"]}, {"id": "E5.28.12", "lines": ["When word went round that royal kin were free,", "The palace garrison renounced decree:"]}, {"id": "E5.28.13", "lines": ["Bandvi and Gostaham appeared in force,", "In gleaming jowshan, each on an armored horse;"]}, {"id": "E5.28.14", "lines": ["Along the royal thoroughfares they sped,", "While clamor through the capital was spread."]}, {"id": "E5.28.15", "lines": ["They passed through market streets with troops in train,", "And reached the royal court to end his reign."]}, {"id": "E5.28.16", "lines": ["Then Gostaham addressed the gathered band:", "“This matter is no trifle; understand."]}, {"id": "E5.28.17", "lines": ["If you would join us, cast respect away;", "Let no regard for Hormizd make you stay."]}, {"id": "E5.28.18", "lines": ["Take vengeance for the guiltless chiefs he slew,", "And pious men, whose blood cries out to you."]}, {"id": "E5.28.19", "lines": ["Let all who prize their faith and judgment sound", "No longer call him Shah or serve him crowned:"]}, {"id": "E5.28.20", "lines": ["Turn Iran’s water bitter as the gall", "Of colocynth, until his glory fall!"]}, {"id": "E5.28.21", "lines": ["We lead the vanguard; let our oath be known", "To raise a righteous sovereign to the throne!"]}, {"id": "E5.28.22", "lines": ["But if you show your weakness and delay,", "We leave Iran to you and go our way."]}, {"id": "E5.28.23", "lines": ["One corner of the world will meet our need,", "And there with all our comrades we shall speed.”"]}, {"id": "E5.28.24", "lines": ["The throng, at Gostaham’s words, condemned his reign;", "Their curses swelled into a fierce refrain:"]}, {"id": "E5.28.25", "lines": ["“Down with the king who seeks his own son’s blood!”", "And rage swept through the army like a flood."]}, {"id": "E5.28.26", "lines": ["The troops then set the palace gates aflame,", "And through the royal halls in fury came."]}, {"id": "E5.28.27", "lines": ["They reached the Shah and stripped his royal head", "Of crown and farr; all deference had fled."]}, {"id": "E5.28.28", "lines": ["They hurled him headlong from his royal seat,", "And cast him down before his rebels’ feet:"]}, {"id": "E5.28.29", "lines": ["A glowing bodkin pierced both eyes outright;", "The white-hot needle quenched their shining light!"]}, {"id": "E5.28.30", "lines": ["They left him blind, in darkness to remain,", "Cast down forever from imperial reign."]}, {"id": "E5.28.31", "lines": ["Such are the turns of heaven’s transient stage:", "Grief follows joy, and winter follows age;"]}, {"id": "E5.28.32", "lines": ["We taste the sweet, then swallow pain and dread,", "Till earth becomes a pillow for the head."]}, {"id": "E5.28.33", "lines": ["Though here you reign a hundred years or more,", "Death waits to reap you at the palace door!"]}, {"id": "E5.28.34", "lines": ["If you would guard your soul from shame and ill,", "Do good, and let your heart follow justice still."]}, {"id": "E5.29.1", "lines": ["Then Gostaham and Bandvi sent one night", "A courier with two steeds to speed his flight."]}, {"id": "E5.29.2", "lines": ["To Azargashasp’s shrine he rode to bring", "The news from Iran to the youthful king."]}, {"id": "E5.29.3", "lines": ["He came when one night of the month had passed,", "And told of Tisfoon’s turmoil, first to last."]}, {"id": "E5.29.4", "lines": ["The young prince paled like fenugreek in flower,", "And spoke beneath the grief of that dark hour:"]}, {"id": "E5.29.5", "lines": ["“Whoever leaves the road that wisdom lays,", "And follows impulse down benighted ways,"]}, {"id": "E5.29.6", "lines": ["Who does not fear high heaven’s turning wheel", "Will reap no lasting good from all his zeal."]}, {"id": "E5.29.7", "lines": ["If this ill news has filled me with delight,", "May food and sleep be burned in fire outright."]}, {"id": "E5.29.8", "lines": ["But when my father sought my death, I fled,", "Nor could I stay within Iran for dread,"]}, {"id": "E5.29.9", "lines": ["Yet still I am his slave in heart and deed,", "And still obey his every word and need.”"]}, {"id": "E5.29.10", "lines": ["With seared heart, he set out without delay;", "Like fire, he and his troops sped on their way."]}, {"id": "E5.29.11", "lines": ["From Barda and from Ardabil he led", "Troop after troop along the road ahead."]}, {"id": "E5.29.12", "lines": ["From high Armenia horsemen rode beside", "The prince, like desert whirlwinds on their ride."]}, {"id": "E5.29.13", "lines": ["When Tisfoon learned that Khosrow sought the crown", "And now approached the people of the town,"]}, {"id": "E5.29.14", "lines": ["The city felt its ancient fears depart;", "With shouts of joy they hailed him in their heart."]}, {"id": "E5.29.15", "lines": ["The nobles reared an ivory throne on high,", "With torques and royal crowns to meet the eye;"]}, {"id": "E5.29.16", "lines": ["Yet while the cheering throngs made glad the air,", "The prince thought of his father in despair."]}]}, {"id": "E6", "title": "Khosrow Parviz", "summary": "54 sections · 3,184 couplets", "path": "/poem/e6/", "couplets": [{"id": "E6.1.1", "lines": ["From heaven’s vault that turns in ceaseless flight,", "What hope has man against its restless might?"]}, {"id": "E6.1.2", "lines": ["One head receives the crown by Fate’s decree;", "Another feeds the monsters of the sea."]}, {"id": "E6.1.3", "lines": ["One wanders bare of head and bare of feet,", "Denied all rest, repose, or safe retreat;"]}, {"id": "E6.1.4", "lines": ["Another, nursed in luxury, arrayed", "In beaver pelts and shimmering brocade."]}, {"id": "E6.1.5", "lines": ["Yet both are caught within destruction’s net,", "And both lie down in dust when death is met."]}, {"id": "E6.1.6", "lines": ["Had wise men not been born, they would not know", "Such days of hardship, whether high or low."]}, {"id": "E6.1.7", "lines": ["Now let us take again the thread, and tell", "The hearer what in Khosrow’s life befell."]}, {"id": "E6.2.1", "lines": ["When Khosrow sat upon the golden throne,", "Men came whose worth and skill were widely known."]}, {"id": "E6.2.2", "lines": ["They called the great men to the royal hall,", "And on the new crown let their jewels fall."]}, {"id": "E6.2.3", "lines": ["He told the Mobad, “Only those whom Fate", "Has favored gain this crown and royal state."]}, {"id": "E6.2.4", "lines": ["May all my work be founded on the right,", "For rule without due justice weakens might."]}, {"id": "E6.2.5", "lines": ["Our will is peace with all beneath the sun;", "We seek no strife or war with anyone."]}, {"id": "E6.2.6", "lines": ["This throne, this fortune, rich and newly won,", "Are mine by grace of God, the Holy One."]}, {"id": "E6.2.7", "lines": ["Now give your hearts to follow my commands,", "And keep three pledges that my rule demands:"]}, {"id": "E6.2.8", "lines": ["First, never harm the pious or the just;", "Next, never rise and break your sovereign’s trust."]}, {"id": "E6.2.9", "lines": ["Third, shun men’s goods: the smoke returns with pain", "To those who burn another’s heart for gain."]}, {"id": "E6.2.10", "lines": ["Now wash your hands of all such petty greed;", "Let righteousness direct your every deed."]}, {"id": "E6.2.11", "lines": ["Whatever dignifies mankind will find", "Approval in the wise and upright mind."]}, {"id": "E6.2.12", "lines": ["We bear no malice toward the loyal great", "Who keep the laws and honors of the state;"]}, {"id": "E6.2.13", "lines": ["Whoever joins pure virtue to high birth", "Shall live in peace and dignity on earth."]}, {"id": "E6.2.14", "lines": ["Your welfare in our keeping rests secure;", "We shall not yield to Ahriman’s dark lure!”"]}, {"id": "E6.2.15", "lines": ["All those who heard him blessed his crown and reign,", "And praised the Fortune he had come to gain."]}, {"id": "E6.2.16", "lines": ["They left rejoicing, loud in praises deep,", "While smiles of gladness through the court did sweep;"]}, {"id": "E6.2.17", "lines": ["Yet when the cheering ceased and failed the light,", "Grief for his blinded father ruled the night."]}, {"id": "E6.3.1", "lines": ["When ebony had vanished from the sky,", "And distant cockcrow rang its morning cry,"]}, {"id": "E6.3.2", "lines": ["The young king came before his father’s place,", "With wounded heart and deeply troubled face."]}, {"id": "E6.3.3", "lines": ["He saw his sire and broke into lament,", "Then bowed before him, sorrow-worn and spent."]}, {"id": "E6.3.4", "lines": ["He lingered long before his father, dumb", "With grief, then spoke of service yet to come:"]}, {"id": "E6.3.5", "lines": ["“Ill-fated king, whose life preserves the name", "Of Anooshirvan and his royal fame,"]}, {"id": "E6.3.6", "lines": ["Had I stood by you, none would dare to slip", "A needle’s point against your fingertip."]}, {"id": "E6.3.7", "lines": ["Command me now; your sorrow fills my heart,", "And makes it bleed to see you bear its smart."]}, {"id": "E6.3.8", "lines": ["I am your slave, if you command me so,", "To guard your head through every wound and blow."]}, {"id": "E6.3.9", "lines": ["I seek no throne, no crown, no armed array;", "Before your feet I lay my head this day.”"]}, {"id": "E6.3.10", "lines": ["Hormizd replied, “O prudent son and heir,", "This day of misery will fade to air."]}, {"id": "E6.3.11", "lines": ["Three things alone I ask, and nothing more:", "First, grant your presence, which I now implore;"]}, {"id": "E6.3.12", "lines": ["Each morning, when the dawn unlocks the skies,", "Console my blinded hours with words I prize."]}, {"id": "E6.3.13", "lines": ["The second: send a sage to share my place,", "Well versed in lore of battles and the chase;"]}, {"id": "E6.3.14", "lines": ["Let him bring ancient books of kings of old,", "To soothe my darkness with the tales they told."]}, {"id": "E6.3.15", "lines": ["The third: your mother’s brothers must no more", "Behold the daylight on this earthly floor:"]}, {"id": "E6.3.16", "lines": ["Slay Bandvi and slay Gostaham outright;", "Avenge the needle that destroyed my sight!”"]}, {"id": "E6.3.17", "lines": ["Khosrow said: “King, may foes be swept away;", "Let none who does not mourn your lost eyes stay."]}, {"id": "E6.3.18", "lines": ["Though grief be held in secret in the heart,", "It is enough that he should feel its smart."]}, {"id": "E6.3.19", "lines": ["But weigh what strength may meet us in attack:", "Bahram has countless horsemen at his back."]}, {"id": "E6.3.20", "lines": ["He stands as champion, mighty in the fight,", "With armed battalions terrible in might."]}, {"id": "E6.3.21", "lines": ["If we lay hands on Gostaham today,", "And strike down Bandvi in our disarray,"]}, {"id": "E6.3.22", "lines": ["Our army will disperse before our foes,", "And leave us naked to Bahram’s fierce blows!"]}, {"id": "E6.3.23", "lines": ["Yet for a scribe well versed in ancient lore,", "To read the scrolls of kings and deeds of war,"]}, {"id": "E6.3.24", "lines": ["And for a Pahlevan to sit beside,", "I pledge companions faithful, true, and tried."]}, {"id": "E6.3.25", "lines": ["Bear this dark lot until the tempest cease;", "Let patient wisdom guide your soul to peace.”"]}, {"id": "E6.3.26", "lines": ["He spoke, then left in tears, his heart oppressed;", "He told no one the secret he possessed."]}, {"id": "E6.3.27", "lines": ["The son was gentler-hearted than the king;", "Hear what an ancient sage was heard to sing:"]}, {"id": "E6.3.28", "lines": ["“A gentle youth whose words are sweet and kind", "Excels a monarch of unyielding mind.”"]}, {"id": "E6.3.29", "lines": ["The man of virtue and the soul depraved", "Alike in earth’s cold bosom lie engraved."]}, {"id": "E6.4.1", "lines": ["Bahram heard how Fortune struck that king,", "And what a ruin Fate had come to bring."]}, {"id": "E6.4.2", "lines": ["They branded both his eyes and quenched their light,", "Two garden-born narcissi plunged in night."]}, {"id": "E6.4.3", "lines": ["His son now sat upon his royal throne,", "His Fortune trampled, kingship overthrown."]}, {"id": "E6.4.4", "lines": ["Bahram was struck with wonder at the news;", "Distressed, he turned within himself to muse."]}, {"id": "E6.4.5", "lines": ["He bade them bear the tabiras afield,", "And bear the mighty banner there, revealed."]}, {"id": "E6.4.6", "lines": ["He packed the baggage, called his men to horse,", "And girded for a clash with Khosrow’s force."]}, {"id": "E6.4.7", "lines": ["His army, like a moving mountain, pressed", "To Nahravan, with boldness in its breast."]}, {"id": "E6.4.8", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard, the news disturbed his mind;", "Such force and haste in Bahram were combined."]}, {"id": "E6.4.9", "lines": ["He sent out spies to mark the moving train,", "And learn what drove him onward to the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.4.10", "lines": ["“First learn if all his troops are one in aim,", "Or if delay may yet affect our claim."]}, {"id": "E6.4.11", "lines": ["Observe where in the army he will ride:", "The center, baggage train, or either side."]}, {"id": "E6.4.12", "lines": ["Observe how he holds court, and note his sport:", "Whether he hunts afield; then bring report.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.13", "lines": ["The spies went out, observed, and came again,", "To tell the Shah in private of those men."]}, {"id": "E6.4.14", "lines": ["They said, “His troops, from chief to youngest boy,", "All serve Bahram with one consenting joy."]}, {"id": "E6.4.15", "lines": ["Now, on the march, he rides the central ground,", "Now left or right, now where the packs are found."]}, {"id": "E6.4.16", "lines": ["He shares his secrets with his people; they", "Have no need to seek strangers on their way."]}, {"id": "E6.4.17", "lines": ["He sits in audience as monarchs do,", "And rides into the fields to hunt there too."]}, {"id": "E6.4.18", "lines": ["He hunts with cheetahs, as the kings have done;", "In zeal, few riders match this tireless one."]}, {"id": "E6.4.19", "lines": ["He speaks of battles fought by kings of old,", "And reads the tales in Dimna’s book retold.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.20", "lines": ["Then Khosrow told his minister with sighs,", "“A long and heavy task before us lies."]}, {"id": "E6.4.21", "lines": ["When Bahram charges at the hostile line,", "He breaks the hearts of dragons in the brine."]}, {"id": "E6.4.22", "lines": ["He learned the royal customs from the Shah,", "The ways that make men hold a king in awe."]}, {"id": "E6.4.23", "lines": ["Kalila, Dimna; both advise his mind;", "No scribe with sharper counsel could he find.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.24", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said to Bandvi and his kin,", "To Gostaham, “Our trials now begin.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.25", "lines": ["When Gordvi, Radman; Armenia’s lord;", "And Shapur, Andiyan, came in accord,"]}, {"id": "E6.4.26", "lines": ["Those shrewd chiefs met in secret with the king,", "All seasoned men, well versed in warfare’s sting."]}, {"id": "E6.4.27", "lines": ["He said, “O mighty warriors, hear my plea:", "When wisdom shines, it lights what men can see."]}, {"id": "E6.4.28", "lines": ["Then knowledge is the jowshan that we wear,", "Which nothing but death’s sword can pierce or tear."]}, {"id": "E6.4.29", "lines": ["Against that sword a steel helm turns to wax;", "No mortal arm can parry its attacks."]}, {"id": "E6.4.30", "lines": ["In years I am the youngest of you here;", "I will not let youth’s judgment rule my sphere."]}, {"id": "E6.4.31", "lines": ["Instruct me what to do and how to stand;", "What cure can heal the wounds that grip the land?”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.32", "lines": ["A Mobad said, “May life be yours, and light;", "May minds find sustenance in your clear sight."]}, {"id": "E6.4.33", "lines": ["Since first the world’s deep mysteries were known,", "Four shares of wisdom have to men been shown."]}, {"id": "E6.4.34", "lines": ["One share belongs to kings, for in their race", "Both farr and wisdom rightly hold their place."]}, {"id": "E6.4.35", "lines": ["Another share the pious may possess;", "The third serves those who near the monarch press."]}, {"id": "E6.4.36", "lines": ["For wisdom will not hide from those who stand", "In service near the ruler of the land."]}, {"id": "E6.4.37", "lines": ["The dehqan’s portion is a meager dole;", "Of all this wisdom, little fills his soul."]}, {"id": "E6.4.38", "lines": ["The thankless have no wisdom to their name,", "Nor those who fail to know God’s holy claim."]}, {"id": "E6.4.39", "lines": ["If now the king will heed the sage’s word,", "And fix his mind on everything he heard,"]}, {"id": "E6.4.40", "lines": ["He soon will eat the fruit that wisdom brings,", "When counsel settles in the hearts of kings.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.41", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “Were I to write in gold", "These words, their luster never would grow old."]}, {"id": "E6.4.42", "lines": ["The Mobad’s words are jewels, clear and bright;", "Yet I have other thoughts to bring to light."]}, {"id": "E6.4.43", "lines": ["When our two armies meet in war’s array,", "And spearheads rise to Gemini that day,"]}, {"id": "E6.4.44", "lines": ["Alone I shall ride from the center line,", "And call to Bahram; shame shall not be mine."]}, {"id": "E6.4.45", "lines": ["Before both sides I shall show peace and grace,", "And praise him openly before his face."]}, {"id": "E6.4.46", "lines": ["If he accepts, so much the better; who", "At court could serve as well as he could do?"]}, {"id": "E6.4.47", "lines": ["But if he seeks for battle, I will fight,", "And range my troops against his hostile might.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.48", "lines": ["All leaders praised the scheme the young Shah planned;", "The great applauded him on every hand."]}, {"id": "E6.4.49", "lines": ["They hailed him king of earth, and all replied,", "“May Fortune’s ills be turned from you aside."]}, {"id": "E6.4.50", "lines": ["May victory, grace, majesty, and crown", "Be yours, O king of kings of high renown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.51", "lines": ["He answered, “May it be. Enough. May we", "From rout and separation all be free.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.52", "lines": ["He led his army out from Tisfoon’s plain,", "And pitched the royal pavilions of his train."]}, {"id": "E6.4.53", "lines": ["As both great armies neared the battleground,", "The air re-echoed with a martial sound."]}, {"id": "E6.4.54", "lines": ["The world’s bright lamp sank down, its light withdrawn,", "And night shook out its tresses till the dawn."]}, {"id": "E6.4.55", "lines": ["Scouts came from both the armies, watchful-eyed,", "To guard their troops against the other side."]}, {"id": "E6.4.56", "lines": ["When night, scared by the sword of day, had fled,", "Dry-lipped and trembling from the morning red,"]}, {"id": "E6.4.57", "lines": ["The tymbals sounded loudly from each camp,", "And Sol led war forth with his fiery lamp."]}, {"id": "E6.4.58", "lines": ["The Shah bade Bandvi, Gostaham prepare;", "They put on iron helms for war to wear."]}, {"id": "E6.4.59", "lines": ["The Shah rode with those chiefs toward the flow", "Of Nahravan, to meet his marching foe."]}, {"id": "E6.4.60", "lines": ["A scout rode up to Bahram and he said,", "“A force lies two bowshots from us ahead.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.61", "lines": ["On hearing this, he moved his troops to fight,", "And called the veterans to his side outright."]}, {"id": "E6.4.62", "lines": ["He rode a piebald charger, nobly bred,", "With musk-black tail and proud, uplifted head."]}, {"id": "E6.4.63", "lines": ["Its hoofs were bronze; his Indian blade flashed bright,", "Its stroke like lightning bursting through the night."]}, {"id": "E6.4.64", "lines": ["He drove the horse like lightning through the plain;", "Izad Gashasp rode leftward in his train."]}, {"id": "E6.4.65", "lines": ["Hamdan Gashasp and Yalan-sina rode,", "Their hearts intent on strife along the road."]}, {"id": "E6.4.66", "lines": ["Three Turks, descended from the Khan, now swore", "To ease the burden that his army bore:"]}, {"id": "E6.4.67", "lines": ["“If we should see the Shah ride out alone,", "Away from all the troops he calls his own,"]}, {"id": "E6.4.68", "lines": ["Seized or slain, he shall be yours; your men shall rest", "From every trouble by which they are pressed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.4.69", "lines": ["Khosrow held the near bank, Bahram the far,", "While Nahravan flowed on, a liquid bar."]}, {"id": "E6.4.70", "lines": ["Both armies watched the two across the flow,", "To see how Bahram would approach his foe."]}, {"id": "E6.5.1", "lines": ["Bahram and Khosrow met; the king showed cheer,", "The other’s face was grim as he drew near."]}, {"id": "E6.5.2", "lines": ["The young Shah rode an ivory-gray in pride,", "With gold and rubies crowned, his chiefs beside."]}, {"id": "E6.5.3", "lines": ["His robe from Chin was gold brocade in light,", "A blaze of kingship in the army’s sight."]}, {"id": "E6.5.4", "lines": ["Gordvi advanced before him as his guide,", "With Gostaham and Bandvi, both allied."]}, {"id": "E6.5.5", "lines": ["Kharrad Barzin among them now drew near,", "A golden helmet flashing bright and clear."]}, {"id": "E6.5.6", "lines": ["In iron, silver, gold, the chiefs rode by;", "Their gems and golden girdles caught the eye."]}, {"id": "E6.5.7", "lines": ["Bahram grew pale with fury at the scene,", "And spoke before his chiefs in tones of spleen:"]}, {"id": "E6.5.8", "lines": ["“This low-born wretch, this miscreant of shame,", "Has risen now to manhood, power, and name."]}, {"id": "E6.5.9", "lines": ["The down is scarcely written on his face,", "Yet he assumes the royal crown and place."]}, {"id": "E6.5.10", "lines": ["Now, like Fereydoon, he would seize the throne,", "And make the gorz and diadem his own."]}, {"id": "E6.5.11", "lines": ["He takes the style of kings with brazen breath,", "But soon this world will close on him in death."]}, {"id": "E6.5.12", "lines": ["This dark-souled bastard leads his troops in pride,", "With Anooshirvan’s fortune at his side."]}, {"id": "E6.5.13", "lines": ["Search through his troops and see if any man", "Could face my sword or match me if he can."]}, {"id": "E6.5.14", "lines": ["I see no single warrior in that mass", "Who could confront me while one breath might pass."]}, {"id": "E6.5.15", "lines": ["Now he shall see the work that men can do,", "The steeds, the swords, the gorzes striking through."]}, {"id": "E6.5.16", "lines": ["Clubs strike, and arrows rain down from the sky;", "Once more the heroes raise their battle cry."]}, {"id": "E6.5.17", "lines": ["When I advance, the elephants give way;", "The mountains crumble at my voice that day."]}, {"id": "E6.5.18", "lines": ["The lion flees before my battle yell;", "Upon the sea my blade shall cast a spell."]}, {"id": "E6.5.19", "lines": ["The desert I shall fill with blood,” he said,", "Then spurred his piebald charger on ahead."]}, {"id": "E6.5.20", "lines": ["As though a homa flew, the charger sped;", "The army watched, astonished, where he led."]}, {"id": "E6.5.21", "lines": ["He chose a narrow stretch on which to fight,", "And rode to Nahravan in Khosrow’s sight."]}, {"id": "E6.5.22", "lines": ["With him rode several men of Iran’s force,", "All bent on war with Khosrow in their course."]}, {"id": "E6.5.23", "lines": ["Khosrow said, “Noble chiefs, make known to me", "Which man is Bahram, that my eyes may see.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.24", "lines": ["Gordvi replied: “O king, observe the steed,", "That piebald courser of impetuous breed;"]}, {"id": "E6.5.25", "lines": ["The rider clothed in white, with baldric black,", "Who surveys the field from that charger’s back:"]}, {"id": "E6.5.26", "lines": ["That is Bahram!” The Shah replied in scorn:", "“That swarthy giant, withered, battle-worn,"]}, {"id": "E6.5.27", "lines": ["Who flaunts his piebald with such haughty show?”", "Gordvi replied: “He comes to work you woe.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.28", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said, “Ask him whose back is bowed;", "His answer will be coarse, his manner loud."]}, {"id": "E6.5.29", "lines": ["His pig-like nose and sleepy eyes reveal", "The anger that his heart cannot conceal."]}, {"id": "E6.5.30", "lines": ["An enemy of God stands in that place;", "I see no sign of service in his face."]}, {"id": "E6.5.31", "lines": ["No man, I think, can rule his stubborn head,", "Or change the path his greedy heart would tread.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.32", "lines": ["To Gostaham and Bandvi then he spoke:", "“A proverb suits this man who spurns the yoke:"]}, {"id": "E6.5.33", "lines": ["If to the load the ass will not draw near,", "Then bring the heavy load beside him here."]}, {"id": "E6.5.34", "lines": ["If some bold foul Div fooled Bahram’s sight,", "How should he see the way of God and right?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.35", "lines": ["For hearts that ache with greed are never stayed", "By all the counsels sages have conveyed."]}, {"id": "E6.5.36", "lines": ["Bahram wants war; no justice guides his mind.", "We must weigh all the outcomes we may find."]}, {"id": "E6.5.37", "lines": ["Who knows which force shall triumph when they meet,", "Which side shall rise, which side endure defeat?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.38", "lines": ["His troops stand well-arrayed and battle-bound;", "Their chief would prove what strength in him is found."]}, {"id": "E6.5.39", "lines": ["Bahram is grim, a Div who leads the band,", "With wolf-like fighters gathered at command."]}, {"id": "E6.5.40", "lines": ["With your consent, lest shame should cling to me,", "I first will offer peace for all to see."]}, {"id": "E6.5.41", "lines": ["To greet him first is better than to show", "A weakness when in battle with the foe."]}, {"id": "E6.5.42", "lines": ["If he replies in fairness and restraint,", "His recent wrongs may yet be cleansed of taint."]}, {"id": "E6.5.43", "lines": ["I will bestow some corner of the earth,", "And win his thanks by bounty and by worth."]}, {"id": "E6.5.44", "lines": ["Our war and field endeavors then may cease;", "This gain is ours if battle turns to peace."]}, {"id": "E6.5.45", "lines": ["When kings can bargain wisely and succeed,", "The pious joy in such a prudent deed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.46", "lines": ["Then Gostaham replied, “O king, live long;", "Your speech is strewn with gems of wisdom strong."]}, {"id": "E6.5.47", "lines": ["Do what you will; your justice lights the way,", "While that slave’s heart is wind and dust today.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.48", "lines": ["Then Khosrow rode before his gathered troops,", "And raised his voice across the hostile groups."]}, {"id": "E6.5.49", "lines": ["He called to Bahram, seeking to be heard,", "And sent across the ranks a peaceful word:"]}, {"id": "E6.5.50", "lines": ["“Illustrious man, how do you fare today,", "Here on the field where troops stand in array?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.51", "lines": ["You are the court’s own jewel, bright and rare,", "The throne’s strong wealth, the army’s prop and care."]}, {"id": "E6.5.52", "lines": ["You are a lamp that brightens every feast,", "And when war rises, valor is released."]}, {"id": "E6.5.53", "lines": ["You are ambitious, brave, and serve God’s light;", "May God preserve your name in every fight."]}, {"id": "E6.5.54", "lines": ["I have weighed all your case, and I intend", "To welcome you with honor as a friend."]}, {"id": "E6.5.55", "lines": ["I will receive you and your ranks with song,", "And glad my heart will be to see you strong."]}, {"id": "E6.5.56", "lines": ["I shall appoint you chief throughout Iran,", "And place you first among each Pahlevan."]}, {"id": "E6.5.57", "lines": ["For you I shall make prayer to God Most High,", "That Fortune keeps your glory near the sky.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.58", "lines": ["When brave Bahram heard Khosrow’s courteous call,", "He checked his black-tailed piebald before all."]}, {"id": "E6.5.59", "lines": ["He saluted from the saddle, paused in pride,", "Then answered sharply from the other side:"]}, {"id": "E6.5.60", "lines": ["“I stand at ease, in Fortune blithe and high;", "May greatness never lift you to the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.5.61", "lines": ["You have no grasp of kingship or its right,", "Nor what is justice in the world’s clear sight."]}, {"id": "E6.5.62", "lines": ["Alanons’ king would rise to rule the land,", "With only luckless men to lend a hand."]}, {"id": "E6.5.63", "lines": ["I have considered you and shaped a snare,", "A noose well-twisted for your neck to bear."]}, {"id": "E6.5.64", "lines": ["I will erect a lofty gibbet soon,", "And hang you under sun and watching moon."]}, {"id": "E6.5.65", "lines": ["Your hands shall be made fast within the coil,", "And Fortune’s bitterness shall be your spoil.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.66", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard, his cheeks grew pale and wan;", "He knew Bahram would press the battle on."]}, {"id": "E6.5.67", "lines": ["He knew he would not quit the crown and throne,", "Nor cast away the claim he called his own."]}, {"id": "E6.5.68", "lines": ["He answered, “Ingrate, good men do not speak", "Such words to guests who come their peace to seek."]}, {"id": "E6.5.69", "lines": ["When guests arrive from far before your gate,", "Do you revile them at the feast in hate?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.70", "lines": ["Such conduct is no custom among kings,", "Nor Pahlevans from whom true honor springs."]}, {"id": "E6.5.71", "lines": ["No Iranian or Arab, I say,", "Has treated guests in such a shameful way."]}, {"id": "E6.5.72", "lines": ["The wise would blush to hear such words from you;", "Do not embrace ingratitude as true."]}, {"id": "E6.5.73", "lines": ["When guests salute you with a gracious face,", "Only a Div’s dark heart returns disgrace."]}, {"id": "E6.5.74", "lines": ["I fear ill days await your road and reign,", "For all your counsels wander into pain."]}, {"id": "E6.5.75", "lines": ["Your remedy is in that King’s command", "Who lives forever, ruling sea and land."]}, {"id": "E6.5.76", "lines": ["Yet in His name you sin and show disgrace,", "With fear at heart and shame upon your face."]}, {"id": "E6.5.77", "lines": ["You call me Alanons’ king, yet you know", "My lineage: why then abase me so?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.78", "lines": ["Am I unfit to wear the crown and reign,", "With Anooshirvan’s blood within each vein?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.79", "lines": ["Hormizd, my father, wore the royal sign;", "Whom do you know more worthy in this line?”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.80", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Mad wretch in word and deed,", "Hear now the answer that your follies breed."]}, {"id": "E6.5.81", "lines": ["You speak of guests; your tale is old and worn,", "Your nature evil from the day you were born."]}, {"id": "E6.5.82", "lines": ["You are no sage, no Pahlevan to fear,", "No man whose worth commands a soldier’s ear."]}, {"id": "E6.5.83", "lines": ["You ruled Alanons, seated on their throne;", "A slave of slaves has rank above your own."]}, {"id": "E6.5.84", "lines": ["You are a worthless evildoer, base,", "No Shah or chief that mighty men would face."]}, {"id": "E6.5.85", "lines": ["But men bless me as Shah. I will not let", "Your foot on earth remain where mine is set."]}, {"id": "E6.5.86", "lines": ["When I called you ill-starred, a mean disgrace,", "Unfit to govern any royal place,"]}, {"id": "E6.5.87", "lines": ["I said it, worthless Shah; may crown and state", "Be never yours by Fortune, will, or fate."]}, {"id": "E6.5.88", "lines": ["Iran’s men are your foes in heart and hand;", "They will uproot your power from the land."]}, {"id": "E6.5.89", "lines": ["They will tear skin and veins and leave your bones", "For dogs to gnaw beside the broken stones.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.90", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Knave, why so fierce and proud?", "Foul speech disgraces men before the crowd."]}, {"id": "E6.5.91", "lines": ["From first to last your nature has been clear;", "Sound wisdom never found a lodging here."]}, {"id": "E6.5.92", "lines": ["Blessed is the man who nurtures wisdom’s light;", "A Div always talks when death comes in sight."]}, {"id": "E6.5.93", "lines": ["I would not see a Pahlevan like you", "Destroyed by wrath and all the harm you do."]}, {"id": "E6.5.94", "lines": ["I beg you, banish anger from your heart;", "Do not let wrath consume your better part."]}, {"id": "E6.5.95", "lines": ["Remember God, the just Possessor’s name,", "And found your wisdom on His righteous claim."]}, {"id": "E6.5.96", "lines": ["A height before you towers, stark and wide,", "More vast than great Bistoon’s own mountainside."]}, {"id": "E6.5.97", "lines": ["If from your stock a king should ever rise,", "The barren thorn would fruit before men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.5.98", "lines": ["Your heart is full of dreams of royal power;", "We shall see what God wills in His good hour."]}, {"id": "E6.5.99", "lines": ["Who taught you such an Ahrimanic creed,", "And trained your nature for this evil deed?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.100", "lines": ["The one who counsels you and draws you near", "Is plotting death with whispers in your ear.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.101", "lines": ["He spoke, dismounted from his ivory-gray,", "And took his costly crown off there to pray."]}, {"id": "E6.5.102", "lines": ["He turned toward the sun with grievous cries,", "And placed his hope in God who rules the skies."]}, {"id": "E6.5.103", "lines": ["“O glorious Judge, who brings hope’s tree to fruit,", "You know who wrongs Your slave with proud dispute."]}, {"id": "E6.5.104", "lines": ["You know how shame now stains the royal crown,", "And how this rebel seeks to pull it down."]}, {"id": "E6.5.105", "lines": ["If royalty must leave our ancient race,", "I will not strive to hold the royal place."]}, {"id": "E6.5.106", "lines": ["I will become a servant in the Fire,", "And live on herbs and milk with no desire."]}, {"id": "E6.5.107", "lines": ["I shall not hoard up coin of any kind,", "But wear coarse wool, to holy rites resigned."]}, {"id": "E6.5.108", "lines": ["Yet if the crown by God is meant as mine,", "I will serve You with justice as my sign."]}, {"id": "E6.5.109", "lines": ["Grant victory to my army in this fight;", "Keep crown and throne beyond that wretch’s might."]}, {"id": "E6.5.110", "lines": ["If I prevail, this crown and steed shall go", "To Azargashasp, where the fires glow."]}, {"id": "E6.5.111", "lines": ["These armlets, earrings, torque, and robe, which shine", "With gold and gems, I too shall give that shrine."]}, {"id": "E6.5.112", "lines": ["Upon the lapis dome I shall let stream", "Ten bags of dinars, yellow in their gleam."]}, {"id": "E6.5.113", "lines": ["When I return, the worshippers shall then", "Have a hundred thousand silver coins again."]}, {"id": "E6.5.114", "lines": ["A city by injustice overthrown,", "Where wild beasts roam, I shall rebuild in stone."]}, {"id": "E6.5.115", "lines": ["Where thorns grow, lions and wild asses stray;", "I shall send treasure, driving want away."]}, {"id": "E6.5.116", "lines": ["Bahram’s men whom we capture shall be made", "To serve the sacred Fire with ready aid."]}, {"id": "E6.5.117", "lines": ["The Mobadan and Hirbads I shall please,", "And set their troubled hearts once more at ease.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.118", "lines": ["He rose, a wronged man, with the truth for shield,", "And turned from worship back to face the field."]}, {"id": "E6.5.119", "lines": ["Swift as a dust-cloud from his place of prayer,", "He called to Bahram through the battle air:"]}, {"id": "E6.5.120", "lines": ["“You hellish, Div-hearted slave of rage,", "Remote from wisdom, grace, and every sage,"]}, {"id": "E6.5.121", "lines": ["Some rabid Div, tyrannous and strong,", "Has blinded you and urged your heart to wrong."]}, {"id": "E6.5.122", "lines": ["Instead of wisdom, vengeance rules your breast;", "The Divs’ praise is what you love the best."]}, {"id": "E6.5.123", "lines": ["A thorn-choked plain seems like a town to you,", "And hell itself a garden fresh and new."]}, {"id": "E6.5.124", "lines": ["The lamp of wisdom in your brain is dead,", "And luster from your mind and heart has fled."]}, {"id": "E6.5.125", "lines": ["Deceitful magic has misled your sight;", "It shows a downfall in the promised height."]}, {"id": "E6.5.126", "lines": ["Today you set your hand upon a shoot,", "With leaves of poison and with bitter fruit."]}, {"id": "E6.5.127", "lines": ["Your stock has never reached for such a prize,", "Nor is such grasping honored in men’s eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.5.128", "lines": ["God has denied you royal farr and grace;", "No diadem befits your subject race!"]}, {"id": "E6.5.129", "lines": ["Have you forgotten Gorgin, Milad’s son,", "Whose treacherous folly left his name undone?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.130", "lines": ["Can river crabs contest the falcon’s flight?", "Can ravens soar above the solar height?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.131", "lines": ["By holy God, by crown and royal throne,", "If I should meet you troopless, on your own,"]}, {"id": "E6.5.132", "lines": ["And blow a chilling blast against your face,", "You would not stand before my kingly place."]}, {"id": "E6.5.133", "lines": ["I have heard harsh words from you, one by one,", "And lean on Him by whom the day is won."]}, {"id": "E6.5.134", "lines": ["If I am not fit for the kingly name,", "May I not live in servitude and shame.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.135", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Possessed and witless fool,", "You never prized your father’s royal rule."]}, {"id": "E6.5.136", "lines": ["Your sire, the Shah, upheld the sacred creed,", "Wronged none and followed justice in each deed."]}, {"id": "E6.5.137", "lines": ["You flung him vilely from his royal seat,", "And now would set the world beneath your feet."]}, {"id": "E6.5.138", "lines": ["You would be wise and vigilant? Your stain", "Makes you God’s foe, with evil all your gain."]}, {"id": "E6.5.139", "lines": ["Even if Hormizd had been harsh and wrong,", "And earth and time against him raised their song,"]}, {"id": "E6.5.140", "lines": ["It was not fit for you, his son, to reign", "By sin, in Iran or Turan’s domain."]}, {"id": "E6.5.141", "lines": ["You merit neither life nor throne nor room;", "Far from good Fortune, you deserve a tomb."]}, {"id": "E6.5.142", "lines": ["For Hormizd I shall take revenge in fight;", "In Iran now the crown is mine by right."]}, {"id": "E6.5.143", "lines": ["Now make this clear to me: what upright man", "Approved the blinding of the royal clan?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.144", "lines": ["Who said that you might sear the eyes of Shahs,", "Or bid another do that deed for cause?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.145", "lines": ["From Sun to Fish’s back, accept this sign:", "The crown and royal power now are mine.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.146", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “May I not live to know", "A joy that springs from my own father’s woe."]}, {"id": "E6.5.147", "lines": ["What had been written came; what had to be", "Has come to pass beneath God’s own decree."]}, {"id": "E6.5.148", "lines": ["How long will empty boasts exalt your name,", "While you before your troops the kingship claim?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.149", "lines": ["A shroud will not be yours when death draws near,", "Yet you proclaim yourself a monarch here."]}, {"id": "E6.5.150", "lines": ["With others’ horses, barding not your own,", "You play at kingship, far below the throne."]}, {"id": "E6.5.151", "lines": ["You have no house, no homeland, birth, or sign;", "You are a windbag king with borrowed shine."]}, {"id": "E6.5.152", "lines": ["With such false title and such empty wares,", "You will not mount the throne of royal heirs."]}, {"id": "E6.5.153", "lines": ["Brave men before you, with their gorzes great,", "Were servants, not pretenders to the state."]}, {"id": "E6.5.154", "lines": ["As lieges, they forbore the sovereign seat,", "And laid no claim to rule beneath their feet."]}, {"id": "E6.5.155", "lines": ["But you grow rabid, all restraint denied,", "And make your shame a thing you cannot hide."]}, {"id": "E6.5.156", "lines": ["God founded kingship on a threefold claim:", "On justice, merit, and ancestral name."]}, {"id": "E6.5.157", "lines": ["He gives it to the worthiest, the wise,", "To those from whom the least of harms arise."]}, {"id": "E6.5.158", "lines": ["My father gave Alanons’ realm to me,", "Made angry with me by your treachery."]}, {"id": "E6.5.159", "lines": ["And now God has bestowed on me the crown,", "The throne and greatness, by His will sent down."]}, {"id": "E6.5.160", "lines": ["I hold them from the Master of the skies,", "Who sees all deeds beneath His watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.5.161", "lines": ["With Hormizd’s leave I took the royal place;", "He held the crown inherited through race."]}, {"id": "E6.5.162", "lines": ["I hold them from the priests and sages’ word,", "The mighty chiefs whose judgment has been heard."]}, {"id": "E6.5.163", "lines": ["I hold them by the Faith that Zardosht brought", "From Paradise, with wisdom nobly taught."]}, {"id": "E6.5.164", "lines": ["He gave Lohrasp the word of God in light,", "And Goshtasb took and held that teaching bright."]}, {"id": "E6.5.165", "lines": ["All those who wronged me in this troubled hour,", "And those whose wealth has come into my power,"]}, {"id": "E6.5.166", "lines": ["Are under my protection, foe or friend;", "My care shall guard them firmly to the end."]}, {"id": "E6.5.167", "lines": ["Their wives and children, too, shall know my care;", "I shall call all men pious everywhere."]}, {"id": "E6.5.168", "lines": ["The destitute in ruined towns shall find", "Wealth at my hand, and leave their grief behind."]}, {"id": "E6.5.169", "lines": ["Outcast or kin, I will uphold their right,", "And make their ruined dwellings whole and bright."]}, {"id": "E6.5.170", "lines": ["Like Paradise, the bramble fields shall grow", "Beneath wide skies, where men and cattle go."]}, {"id": "E6.5.171", "lines": ["I shall leave goodness in the world, a name", "That lives beyond my death in lasting fame."]}, {"id": "E6.5.172", "lines": ["Come, let our hearts be scales to weigh the right,", "And let our arms be strengthened for the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.5.173", "lines": ["When Shah Hormizd made justice his first choice,", "Both earth and time had reason to rejoice."]}, {"id": "E6.5.174", "lines": ["The son should keep the crown his father wore,", "The throne, the girdle, Fortune, as before."]}, {"id": "E6.5.175", "lines": ["But you, sly man of treachery and spite,", "First raised your hand against Hormizd in fight."]}, {"id": "E6.5.176", "lines": ["No evil came except by your command,", "Your spells, your plotting, and your treacherous hand."]}, {"id": "E6.5.177", "lines": ["If God shall will, in the wronged monarch’s name,", "I will dim light where your war-banners flame."]}, {"id": "E6.5.178", "lines": ["Now who deserves the crown? If not I, who?", "What other man can claim it as his due?”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.179", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “The man who takes your crown", "Is worthy of the throne and its renown."]}, {"id": "E6.5.180", "lines": ["When Babak’s daughter bore the royal heir,", "The Ashkanians held sway everywhere."]}, {"id": "E6.5.181", "lines": ["Did Ardeshir not strike Ardavan dead,", "And set the crown by force upon his head?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.182", "lines": ["Five hundred years of Sasan’s rule are spent,", "And cold now grow the heads of that descent."]}, {"id": "E6.5.183", "lines": ["Now comes my day for diadem and throne;", "The power and work are mine; the task my own."]}, {"id": "E6.5.184", "lines": ["Conquering Fortune stands allied with me;", "The crown is mine by Heaven’s own decree."]}, {"id": "E6.5.185", "lines": ["When I behold your troops, your face, your crown,", "My lion-hearted wrath will strike them down."]}, {"id": "E6.5.186", "lines": ["I will abolish all Sasanians’ fame,", "And scrape from every roll the Sasan name."]}, {"id": "E6.5.187", "lines": ["Their head and crown together I will tread;", "Their Fortune too shall lie among the dead."]}, {"id": "E6.5.188", "lines": ["Great power rightly to the Ashkanians falls,", "If wisdom heeds what lineage recalls.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.189", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “If rule should leave our line,", "Who are you to declare, ‘That rule is mine’?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.190", "lines": ["What place have you among that royal breed?", "What claim can spring from your ambitious seed?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.191", "lines": ["What are the folk of Rey but double-faced,", "Their manhood weak, their counsel all debased?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.192", "lines": ["From Rey a little force joined in the fight", "With Iskandar and Rum’s great legions’ might."]}, {"id": "E6.5.193", "lines": ["They seized the throne; from them great evil came,", "Which God the Maker would condemn to shame."]}, {"id": "E6.5.194", "lines": ["From Rey came Mahiyar, vile heart, foul deed,", "Who darkened Esfandiyar’s royal seed."]}, {"id": "E6.5.195", "lines": ["The Iranians girded, each resolved to gain", "Revenge for all the evil and the pain."]}, {"id": "E6.5.196", "lines": ["The Judge who gives support crowned Ardeshir,", "And made his Fortune blaze across the sphere."]}, {"id": "E6.5.197", "lines": ["He was most worthy of the royal crown,", "Though lacking wealth, his worth won high renown."]}, {"id": "E6.5.198", "lines": ["Those heroes’ names have passed; their day is gone,", "And all our words are wind that wanders on."]}, {"id": "E6.5.199", "lines": ["Now who deserves the rule and lordly seat", "Within this shifting world beneath our feet?”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.200", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I am the fighting man", "Who shall uproot the whole Kayanian clan.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.201", "lines": ["Then Khosrow answered, “You have heard the saw", "That teaches noble order, rule, and law:"]}, {"id": "E6.5.202", "lines": ["Do not entrust the gear of royal state", "To mean or wayward men who harbor hate."]}, {"id": "E6.5.203", "lines": ["You cannot get it back when you demand;", "Its power has made him drunk who holds command."]}, {"id": "E6.5.204", "lines": ["My father, rash, ill-counseled, could not know", "What lay concealed beneath the outward show."]}, {"id": "E6.5.205", "lines": ["With worthy nobles ranged on either flank,", "He set the thankless one above each rank."]}, {"id": "E6.5.206", "lines": ["What did the sweet-voiced sage once say of men?", "Do not uplift the thankless one again."]}, {"id": "E6.5.207", "lines": ["To raise up fickle men brings toil and pain;", "Avoid the thankless, or your hopes are vain."]}, {"id": "E6.5.208", "lines": ["You once were brave, high-aiming, keen in fight,", "But nature’s flaw has dimmed your inner light."]}, {"id": "E6.5.209", "lines": ["My father placed you first among the great;", "You stood above the chiefs in royal state."]}, {"id": "E6.5.210", "lines": ["But favor and the silver throne’s bright snare", "Have made you drunk, beyond all prudent care."]}, {"id": "E6.5.211", "lines": ["Chubin is now Bahram in name and fame;", "That silver throne has trapped you in your claim."]}, {"id": "E6.5.212", "lines": ["You sit upon it, longing for the moon;", "A sepahbod would be a monarch soon."]}, {"id": "E6.5.213", "lines": ["No sage has ever held such speech as this;", "I do know you consort with the Div’s kiss.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.214", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Evil man, you know", "Reviling is the only skill you show."]}, {"id": "E6.5.215", "lines": ["You heed no covenant, justice, law, or right,", "And seek a state beyond your rank and might."]}, {"id": "E6.5.216", "lines": ["You blinded Hormizd; how can such a deed", "Be hidden from the world or cleansed by creed?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.217", "lines": ["Your friends are yours in word, but mine in heart;", "They wear your colors while from you they part."]}, {"id": "E6.5.218", "lines": ["The Khan is my ally, and with him stand", "The armies drawn from Chin at my command."]}, {"id": "E6.5.219", "lines": ["I rule with justice, sword held in my hand;", "No enemy can wrest from me my land."]}, {"id": "E6.5.220", "lines": ["From Pars to Rey I shall transfer the crown,", "And cast the Kayanian glory down."]}, {"id": "E6.5.221", "lines": ["I shall restore the customs Milad knew,", "And make the ancient laws of Rey come true."]}, {"id": "E6.5.222", "lines": ["I spring from famed Arash, and in the fight", "I am a fire no man can quench by might."]}, {"id": "E6.5.223", "lines": ["I am great Gorgin’s grandson, and I claim", "The blazing force of Barzin’s sacred flame."]}, {"id": "E6.5.224", "lines": ["King Saveh meant Iran to lose its crown,", "Its throne and signet trampled, broken down."]}, {"id": "E6.5.225", "lines": ["He meant to raze the temples, and erase", "Nowruz and Sadeh from their honored place."]}, {"id": "E6.5.226", "lines": ["The Iranians would have all been enslaved,", "Had I not risen and my people saved."]}, {"id": "E6.5.227", "lines": ["If you would know how many marched that day,", "Four hundred thousand formed his vast array."]}, {"id": "E6.5.228", "lines": ["Twelve hundred elephants of war he led;", "The earth beneath their weight bowed low in dread."]}, {"id": "E6.5.229", "lines": ["That vast array fled from my lion’s cry,", "Their broken ranks like dust beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.5.230", "lines": ["No man devoid of deeds and proven might", "Would seek the throne or claim the royal right."]}, {"id": "E6.5.231", "lines": ["My helmet bears the promise of the crown;", "My sword shall win the ivory throne’s renown."]}, {"id": "E6.5.232", "lines": ["If but a gnat should war with you in pride,", "It would unseat you, sweeping you aside.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.233", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Recall Gorgin of Rey:", "What royal throne or Fortune marked his day?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.234", "lines": ["No throne or majesty to him was shown;", "He had no state, and he was scarcely known."]}, {"id": "E6.5.235", "lines": ["Your name was hidden; you were poor and small,", "Until Mehran Setad reached the Shah’s hall."]}, {"id": "E6.5.236", "lines": ["He told the monarch of your youth and name,", "And raised you from the dust to public fame."]}, {"id": "E6.5.237", "lines": ["The king supplied you treasure, arms, and men,", "And Rostam’s moon-bright banner rose again."]}, {"id": "E6.5.238", "lines": ["God did not will the Turks from Chin to spoil", "Iran, or crush the lives upon its soil."]}, {"id": "E6.5.239", "lines": ["He helped you in that fight; your helmet rose", "Toward clouds because God humbled all your foes."]}, {"id": "E6.5.240", "lines": ["The Great King’s Fortune brought success that day;", "You claimed the merit and were led astray."]}, {"id": "E6.5.241", "lines": ["If kingship leaves the Kayanian line,", "Why should you strive to hasten its decline?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.242", "lines": ["It takes the force of Iskandar’s own hand", "To darken kingship over all the land."]}, {"id": "E6.5.243", "lines": ["May you, with the Div face and dusty head,", "Attain to nothing but a ditch when dead."]}, {"id": "E6.5.244", "lines": ["Your wayward conduct dimmed my father’s days;", "You coined my name to end my life through praise."]}, {"id": "E6.5.245", "lines": ["You are the source of evil; blood you spill", "Will hang you in the next world for that ill."]}, {"id": "E6.5.246", "lines": ["You will not find in sleep throughout the night", "What all day long you hunt beneath the light."]}, {"id": "E6.5.247", "lines": ["O luckless, unjust man, give not your days", "To crookedness, nor walk such ruined ways."]}, {"id": "E6.5.248", "lines": ["Do not bring such disgrace upon your head,", "Nor live unjust, miserable, misled."]}, {"id": "E6.5.249", "lines": ["Seek God’s good favor; let your labor show", "That wisdom guides your steps where you may go."]}, {"id": "E6.5.250", "lines": ["For what is mine and yours will pass and fade;", "Time counts each breath until the debt is paid."]}, {"id": "E6.5.251", "lines": ["Who says, when guile has clothed your heart in night,", "That guile is better than the path of right?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.252", "lines": ["Obey, and have your wishes: you shall share", "A portion of this realm beneath my care."]}, {"id": "E6.5.253", "lines": ["Then in this world you will know peace and rest,", "And leave it, calm of heart, at death’s behest."]}, {"id": "E6.5.254", "lines": ["Zardosht has spoken in the Zand; his lore", "We may not lessen, nor may we add more."]}, {"id": "E6.5.255", "lines": ["Zardosht has said: who leaves the holy road", "Has lost all awe of God, all inward goad."]}, {"id": "E6.5.256", "lines": ["Counsel him for a year; if counsel fails,", "Then death by royal order next prevails."]}, {"id": "E6.5.257", "lines": ["Cast out his guilty corpse upon the way;", "Slay rebels to the Shah without delay."]}, {"id": "E6.5.258", "lines": ["Men will shed your blood, for a twisted fate", "Demands this payment from your rebel state."]}, {"id": "E6.5.259", "lines": ["A wretched life awaits, and fire’s embrace,", "If still you turn from Shah and God’s own grace."]}, {"id": "E6.5.260", "lines": ["You ail, and counsel is the drug you need;", "I strive to heal your envy and your greed."]}, {"id": "E6.5.261", "lines": ["If envy rules, another healer’s art", "I shall bring here to cure your ailing heart."]}, {"id": "E6.5.262", "lines": ["Your healer, counsel; wisdom is the cure", "That may remove the crown’s deceitful lure."]}, {"id": "E6.5.263", "lines": ["Your victories made you someone in the state,", "But thoughts of treasure opened ruin’s gate."]}, {"id": "E6.5.264", "lines": ["Have you heard how Zahhak’s impious reign", "Made Divs and warlocks fill the world with pain?"]}, {"id": "E6.5.265", "lines": ["When noble hearts could bear his rule no more,", "What did Fereydoon do? Recall that lore."]}, {"id": "E6.5.266", "lines": ["Your troops, alive or dead, are mine by right;", "Through you they gained some honor in the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.5.267", "lines": ["When I display my treasure to the band,", "Their hearts will soften at my open hand."]}, {"id": "E6.5.268", "lines": ["Your men, grown rich when Saveh met defeat,", "Thought no new foe could force them to retreat."]}, {"id": "E6.5.269", "lines": ["I would not have Iran’s great warriors slain,", "Nor bring defeat and ruin on my reign."]}, {"id": "E6.5.270", "lines": ["Tell me, in Arash’s days, who held the land?”", "“Manuchehr,” said Bahram, “held command.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.271", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “You know he ruled the world,", "While Arash served where royal flags were furled."]}, {"id": "E6.5.272", "lines": ["So Rostam learned from Kay Khosrow, and knew", "The ways of kings, their throne and customs too."]}, {"id": "E6.5.273", "lines": ["He kept the customs of the kings; his eye", "Never sought their throne or station high.”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.274", "lines": ["Bahram replied: “You shepherd-born disgrace,", "Sprung from a herdsman of ignoble race!"]}, {"id": "E6.5.275", "lines": ["Did Babak not bid Sasan take his crook,", "To tend his ewes beside the mountain brook?”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.276", "lines": ["Khosrow replied: “Falsehood procures no crown;", "Such slanders drag your warrior honor down!"]}, {"id": "E6.5.277", "lines": ["You spring from crooked roots; yet Sasan’s bread", "Enriched your house and raised your father’s head!”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.278", "lines": ["Bahram retorted: “Though your words be bold,", "A shepherd’s crook was Sasan’s lot of old!”"]}, {"id": "E6.5.279", "lines": ["Khosrow said: “When King Dara breathed his last,", "To noble Sasan was the kingship passed!"]}, {"id": "E6.5.280", "lines": ["Though Fortune waned, the royal seed remained;", "By lies no sovereign title is attained!"]}, {"id": "E6.5.281", "lines": ["With such blind judgment, would you govern men?”", "He laughed in scorn, and turned his rein again."]}, {"id": "E6.6.1", "lines": ["The three Turks of the Khan’s own lineage swore", "To win a name upon the field of war."]}, {"id": "E6.6.2", "lines": ["One horseman, fierce and reckless, forward came;", "Like wolves, the three were bent on martial fame."]}, {"id": "E6.6.3", "lines": ["“We shall, upon the battle day,” they said,", "“Bring you the Shah, whether alive or dead.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.4", "lines": ["That horseman rushed forth, grim and seeking fight,", "His kamand wound in sixty coils held tight."]}, {"id": "E6.6.5", "lines": ["He neared the Shah’s bright ivory-colored steed,", "And aimed at crown and head, kamand half-freed."]}, {"id": "E6.6.6", "lines": ["He cast his sixty-coiled kamand in flight,", "And snared the royal crown in all men’s sight!"]}, {"id": "E6.6.7", "lines": ["Quick Gostaham unsheathed his blade to tear", "The rawhide loops, and cut the deadly snare;"]}, {"id": "E6.6.8", "lines": ["While Bandvi loosed a shaft of whistling fire,", "To pierce the treacherous raider in his ire."]}, {"id": "E6.6.9", "lines": ["Bahram cried, “May dust conceal your head,", "And may the earth alone become your bed."]}, {"id": "E6.6.10", "lines": ["Who bade you strike the Shah before my eyes?", "I stood in parley under open skies.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.11", "lines": ["Distressed in soul and body, he withdrew,", "And back toward camp his troubled spirit flew."]}, {"id": "E6.6.12", "lines": ["His sister heard of his return that day,", "And cast her splendid crown and pomp away."]}, {"id": "E6.6.13", "lines": ["An aide brought forth her veil; with wounded heart,", "She ran to meet him, shaken in each part."]}, {"id": "E6.6.14", "lines": ["“O warlike chief,” she said, “now plainly say:", "How fared your meeting with the Shah today?"]}, {"id": "E6.6.15", "lines": ["If in his youth he burns too hot and fast,", "Relax no effort till you make peace last.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.16", "lines": ["Brave Bahram answered, “He has no true claim", "To stand among the kings or bear their name."]}, {"id": "E6.6.17", "lines": ["He is no sage, no Pahlevan of might,", "Nor generous, nor fearsome, nor yet bright."]}, {"id": "E6.6.18", "lines": ["In kings, true merit counts for more than birth;", "A king must have those gifts that prove his worth.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.19", "lines": ["His sister said, “O shrewd, ambitious chief,", "My words will stir your anger, not belief."]}, {"id": "E6.6.20", "lines": ["Recall the sage of Balkh, who wisely said:", "‘The truth tastes bitter when our faults are read.’"]}, {"id": "E6.6.21", "lines": ["Do not destroy your country. You possess", "Your share of earth; do not pursue excess."]}, {"id": "E6.6.22", "lines": ["A wise man said: ‘An ass once tried to don", "An ox’s horns; and both his ears were gone.’"]}, {"id": "E6.6.23", "lines": ["Do not invite the world to cast you down;", "No ancestor of yours has worn the crown."]}, {"id": "E6.6.24", "lines": ["Had not this youth laid claim to kingly power,", "I would not grieve through each benighted hour."]}, {"id": "E6.6.25", "lines": ["His father lives; the royal line remains,", "Yet you stretch out your hand toward crown and reins."]}, {"id": "E6.6.26", "lines": ["How this will end I do not understand;", "All night my eyes shed blood; my grief is fanned."]}, {"id": "E6.6.27", "lines": ["Your aim is pain; your path is cursed and wrong;", "You breathe a poisoned flower all day long."]}, {"id": "E6.6.28", "lines": ["Chubin, your name, will bear the stain of shame,", "And scorn shall cling forever to your name."]}, {"id": "E6.6.29", "lines": ["God will be angry, and your soul shall dwell", "In darkness, driven by rebellion to Hell."]}, {"id": "E6.6.30", "lines": ["Consider who first sought you out and raised", "Your hidden worth, and had your service praised."]}, {"id": "E6.6.31", "lines": ["Was it not King Hormizd who gave you place,", "And lifted you to honor, rank, and grace?"]}, {"id": "E6.6.32", "lines": ["But since King Saveh’s goods and throne were won,", "You have assumed the crown beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "E6.6.33", "lines": ["Through Hormizd’s trust your name became renowned,", "Yet now your heart is set on being crowned."]}, {"id": "E6.6.34", "lines": ["Know every blessing comes from God above;", "Repay your Shah with loyalty and love."]}, {"id": "E6.6.35", "lines": ["Do not presume upon the fields you won;", "Take honor humbly for the deeds well done."]}, {"id": "E6.6.36", "lines": ["You have gained fame; do not let pride command,", "Or give to Ahriman your heart and hand."]}, {"id": "E6.6.37", "lines": ["When Hormizd raved in anger and in pain,", "And Ayin Gashasp stirred his rage and bane,"]}, {"id": "E6.6.38", "lines": ["You should have borne it patiently; your place", "As servant gave no right to war’s disgrace."]}, {"id": "E6.6.39", "lines": ["When Hormizd suffered, and his son, who burned", "For vengeance, now from Barda had returned,"]}, {"id": "E6.6.40", "lines": ["You should have sought the youthful monarch’s court,", "And graced his throne with homage and support."]}, {"id": "E6.6.41", "lines": ["He then would have accepted your advice,", "And spared you evil days and their steep price."]}, {"id": "E6.6.42", "lines": ["You would have known peace, triumph, and delight;", "Why aim at crown and throne through wrongful fight?"]}, {"id": "E6.6.43", "lines": ["You know that princes still survive and shine,", "From Ardeshir’s old stock and royal line."]}, {"id": "E6.6.44", "lines": ["The princes still remain with wealth and force;", "Who in Iran would sanction such a course?"]}, {"id": "E6.6.45", "lines": ["If any king with troops and treasure’s store", "Could eye this land and force its guarded door,"]}, {"id": "E6.6.46", "lines": ["It would have been King Saveh, prince of Chin,", "Who marched against Iran, his hatred keen."]}, {"id": "E6.6.47", "lines": ["But God set you against him in the fight,", "And saved Iran and all its chiefs from blight."]}, {"id": "E6.6.48", "lines": ["Since God first vaulted heaven’s dome on high,", "No noble like Sahm has passed beneath the sky:"]}, {"id": "E6.6.49", "lines": ["No raging lion faced his iron brand,", "Nor dared against his gorz to make a stand;"]}, {"id": "E6.6.50", "lines": ["Yet when King Nohzar governed in disgrace,", "And broke the ancient customs of his race,"]}, {"id": "E6.6.51", "lines": ["Iran’s grandees offered Sahm the royal throne,", "To make the turquoise diadem his own."]}, {"id": "E6.6.52", "lines": ["He cried: ‘Forbid that I should dare to reach", "For sovereign rank, or prompt such lawless speech!"]}, {"id": "E6.6.53", "lines": ["My throne: the dust where Manuchehr now lies;", "The throne of Nohzar is the crown I prize.’"]}, {"id": "E6.6.54", "lines": ["I tell you this, my brother: none may gain", "The throne unless good Fortune aids his reign."]}, {"id": "E6.6.55", "lines": ["He must be generous, of royal line,", "And in his bearing kingly farr must shine."]}, {"id": "E6.6.56", "lines": ["He must be wise, with justice for his guide,", "And hold a heart enlightened deep inside."]}, {"id": "E6.6.57", "lines": ["I do not know what Fate will bring on you;", "Wisdom has vanished from your heart and view.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.58", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I own the truth you tell,", "And holy God has marked the matter well."]}, {"id": "E6.6.59", "lines": ["But matters now have passed beyond recall;", "Distress now holds my heart and mind in thrall."]}, {"id": "E6.6.60", "lines": ["I must gain power or bow my head and feel", "The death that pierces through a helm of steel.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.61", "lines": ["The youthful king, rejoicing to the core,", "Recrossed the Nahravan bridge to the shore."]}, {"id": "E6.6.62", "lines": ["He called the captains of the army near,", "And ranged them by his throne to speak and hear."]}, {"id": "E6.6.63", "lines": ["He said, “Good-hearted chiefs, experienced, wise,", "My reign is new and needs your searching eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.6.64", "lines": ["I must be tested; none yet owes me praise,", "Though I know kindness shown in others’ ways."]}, {"id": "E6.6.65", "lines": ["No good from me has reached you to this day,", "And now fresh toil and war obstruct your way."]}, {"id": "E6.6.66", "lines": ["You served my ancestors; you long have known", "The harsh and bitter things the world has shown."]}, {"id": "E6.6.67", "lines": ["I will reveal the purpose I conceal,", "But guard it well; let no one break the seal."]}, {"id": "E6.6.68", "lines": ["If published to the troops, my scheme will fail;", "Let silence stand around it like a veil."]}, {"id": "E6.6.69", "lines": ["Tonight I mean to lead our force to war,", "For I have parleyed with that man before."]}, {"id": "E6.6.70", "lines": ["Bahram is active, skillful, bold afield,", "A horseman who will fight and never yield."]}, {"id": "E6.6.71", "lines": ["Yet little wisdom could I see or find", "In him or in his chiefs of matching mind."]}, {"id": "E6.6.72", "lines": ["His fight with Saveh is his only tale;", "He tells it over, though the tale is stale."]}, {"id": "E6.6.73", "lines": ["He thinks me foolish, young, and full of fear,", "And hopes his sword and gorz will daunt me here."]}, {"id": "E6.6.74", "lines": ["He does not know I shall attack by night,", "And drive out fear by meeting him in fight."]}, {"id": "E6.6.75", "lines": ["If you will share this battle’s risk with me,", "Once night is dark, no more delay shall be."]}, {"id": "E6.6.76", "lines": ["When night with ambergris has washed her face,", "And shakes her musk-sweet hair across this place,"]}, {"id": "E6.6.77", "lines": ["Mount armed with gorz and scimitar in hand,", "And strike with me against the hostile band.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.78", "lines": ["They all agreed to follow his command,", "And each one pledged, with sword and heart, to stand."]}, {"id": "E6.6.79", "lines": ["When he returned, he cleared his tent of all,", "And let no stranger linger by the wall."]}, {"id": "E6.6.80", "lines": ["He called for Gostaham and Bandvi then,", "And Gordvi, seasoned chief of fighting men."]}, {"id": "E6.6.81", "lines": ["He told them of his planned attack by night,", "And hoped that they would aid him in the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.6.82", "lines": ["Then Gostaham replied, “O king, beware;", "Why place such faith in battle’s hidden snare?"]}, {"id": "E6.6.83", "lines": ["A night assault may alienate your own;", "Your troops and his are kinsmen, closely known."]}, {"id": "E6.6.84", "lines": ["Grandfather here, and grandson there, they stand;", "Their hearts are bound together, hand to hand."]}, {"id": "E6.6.85", "lines": ["What art could change their minds? Their ties are dear:", "A brother there, a father standing here."]}, {"id": "E6.6.86", "lines": ["How shall the father fight his son? Take care:", "Do not fulfill the wish your foes would share."]}, {"id": "E6.6.87", "lines": ["This was no matter for the troops to know;", "Your words have ruined all and laid us low.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.88", "lines": ["Gordvi said, “Our plan is lost from sight;", "Your words have cast it to the winds tonight."]}, {"id": "E6.6.89", "lines": ["Power, desire, wealth, armies in array", "Can turn even a prudent man astray."]}, {"id": "E6.6.90", "lines": ["Do not remain here while the plain is dark,", "Nor leave your troops and treasure as a mark."]}, {"id": "E6.6.91", "lines": ["I have no doubt our secret is now known;", "The other camp has heard what we have shown."]}, {"id": "E6.6.92", "lines": ["Do not expose your head to hostile might;", "Preserve the throne and turn from rash delight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.93", "lines": ["Pleased with their counsel, Khosrow gave assent,", "And chose devoted chiefs of firm intent."]}, {"id": "E6.6.94", "lines": ["Kharrad Barzin came at the monarch’s call,", "With lion-like Gostaham among them all."]}, {"id": "E6.6.95", "lines": ["Shapur, Andiyan, Bandvi, proved in field,", "With fierce Nastooh, the hero-scorching shield;"]}, {"id": "E6.6.96", "lines": ["These loyal captains drew their swords to keep", "The youthful Shah, a watch that knew no sleep:"]}, {"id": "E6.6.97", "lines": ["Upon a grassy knoll they set their tent,", "To watch the plain until the night was spent."]}, {"id": "E6.6.98", "lines": ["The Shah surveyed his army from the height;", "Bahram sat down with men of rank and might."]}, {"id": "E6.6.99", "lines": ["When all the chiefs drew near, Bahram began:", "“What news have you of kinsman, friend, and clan?"]}, {"id": "E6.6.100", "lines": ["Send word to all your kinsmen, one in mind", "And faith with you; if they should be inclined"]}, {"id": "E6.6.101", "lines": ["To come, obey, and pledge their lives, then all", "Their strength shall answer to our army’s call."]}, {"id": "E6.6.102", "lines": ["He has but Barda, Ardabil, and those", "Armenian troops to face us as our foes."]}, {"id": "E6.6.103", "lines": ["We fear them not when battle’s fury wakes;", "For Barda’s men are dust the whirlwind takes.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.104", "lines": ["The chieftains heard Bahram’s proposed design,", "And chose a scribe from men within their line."]}, {"id": "E6.6.105", "lines": ["Eloquent, wise, with memory keen and clear,", "He took the secret charge he came to hear."]}, {"id": "E6.6.106", "lines": ["Throughout the long dark night he made his way,", "And told Iran’s chiefs what he came to say."]}, {"id": "E6.6.107", "lines": ["He gave the message; they replied, “Until", "The armies meet, we stand by Khosrow still."]}, {"id": "E6.6.108", "lines": ["We fear this matter may be long and grim;", "He plans a night attack; do not trust him.”"]}, {"id": "E6.6.109", "lines": ["The envoy heard and wheeled, swift as a gust;", "He raced to Pahlevan Bahram through dust."]}, {"id": "E6.6.110", "lines": ["In private, word for word, the man made clear", "Iran’s full answer, meant for Bahram’s ear."]}, {"id": "E6.7.1", "lines": ["When Bahram learned the troops inclined his way,", "He ordered fires to keep the dark at bay."]}, {"id": "E6.7.2", "lines": ["In every quarter watchfires blazed and spread;", "Then Bahram marked the fiercest men he led."]}, {"id": "E6.7.3", "lines": ["Six thousand swordsmen, chosen for their might,", "The scribes had counted, ready for the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.7.4", "lines": ["He cried, “When tabiras at cockcrow sound,", "Raise battle-shouts that shake the solid ground."]}, {"id": "E6.7.5", "lines": ["Charge in, and let your battle-shouts resound;", "With blood let all the noble heads be crowned.”"]}, {"id": "E6.7.6", "lines": ["Led by three Turks, the troops rushed to the fight,", "And fell upon the king’s troops in the night."]}, {"id": "E6.7.7", "lines": ["A din of gorz and club and sword arose;", "Earth turned to iron; dust obscured the foes."]}, {"id": "E6.7.8", "lines": ["The soldiers cried, “Where is Khosrow the king?", "Today our victory shall make earth ring.”"]}, {"id": "E6.7.9", "lines": ["Khosrow stood on the hill in bitter pain,", "His eyes like blood, his cheeks a lapis stain."]}, {"id": "E6.7.10", "lines": ["Bewildered by the battle’s fearful turn,", "He pondered what to do with deep concern."]}, {"id": "E6.7.11", "lines": ["Until the shafts of dawn began to rise,", "The slaughter weighed upon his heart and eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.7.12", "lines": ["But when dark night had drawn its skirt away,", "He saw the dead and wounded where they lay."]}, {"id": "E6.7.13", "lines": ["He told his chiefs, “Now help me. Strike the foe;", "Let all your strength and loyal courage show."]}, {"id": "E6.7.14", "lines": ["For God the Victor is my help and stay;", "My task is striking with the sword today.”"]}, {"id": "E6.7.15", "lines": ["He charged straight at the three proud Turks in wrath,", "Three wolves of blood that barred his battle path."]}, {"id": "E6.7.16", "lines": ["One closed with him and raised his glittering blade,", "And at the royal crown a fierce stroke made."]}, {"id": "E6.7.17", "lines": ["The royal rider caught it on his shield,", "Then struck and hurled the Turk upon the field."]}, {"id": "E6.7.18", "lines": ["“Famed fighters, stand a little longer here!”", "He cried to all the warriors standing near."]}, {"id": "E6.7.19", "lines": ["Yet all his troops turned back and fled the fight,", "And left the prince alone in sorry plight."]}, {"id": "E6.7.20", "lines": ["He said to Gostaham and bold Bandvi,", "“I read ill omens in what now I see."]}, {"id": "E6.7.21", "lines": ["I have no grown son fit to take command,", "Nor kin to wear the crown of Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "E6.7.22", "lines": ["If I am slain in battle’s storm today,", "The world will have no king to guide its way.”"]}, {"id": "E6.7.23", "lines": ["Bandvi replied, “O noble prince, ride on;", "Do not remain, for all your troops have gone."]}, {"id": "E6.7.24", "lines": ["Let all the world still yearn for you; take flight;", "No man remains to guard your royal right.”"]}, {"id": "E6.7.25", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said to Gordvi, “Hasten now;", "Take Tukhar with you, loyal to his vow."]}, {"id": "E6.7.26", "lines": ["Secure the tents, the treasure, and brocade,", "The crown, the slaves, the money bags displayed."]}, {"id": "E6.7.27", "lines": ["Lead out a thousand horsemen; bring away", "The ivory throne and what you find today.”"]}, {"id": "E6.7.28", "lines": ["The nobles labored hard to load the train,", "And bear the treasure from the battle plain."]}, {"id": "E6.7.29", "lines": ["Then rose a dragon-banner in the fight;", "The world turned violet before its sight."]}, {"id": "E6.7.30", "lines": ["Behind that flag rode Bahram, fierce and proud,", "Who dimmed the world’s bright luster like a cloud."]}, {"id": "E6.7.31", "lines": ["Then Khosrow met him, fighting hard and long,", "Two fierce war-lions, terrible and strong."]}, {"id": "E6.7.32", "lines": ["Like elephants of war, with fury red,", "They struck their blows at one another’s head."]}, {"id": "E6.7.33", "lines": ["Bahram wheeled lion-like around the field;", "His weapons failed to force the king to yield."]}, {"id": "E6.7.34", "lines": ["The sun passed through the dome; upon the ground,", "Their struggle raged beyond all measure’s bound."]}, {"id": "E6.7.35", "lines": ["Then Tukhar came: “The treasure and the train", "Have crossed the bridge; none on this side remain.”"]}, {"id": "E6.7.36", "lines": ["The monarch said to Gostaham, “No friend", "Remains to help us see this warfare end."]}, {"id": "E6.7.37", "lines": ["We are but ten; their army fills the land,", "Led by a Pahlevan of high command."]}, {"id": "E6.7.38", "lines": ["If only some would help me in the fray,", "I would not turn my head and ride away."]}, {"id": "E6.7.39", "lines": ["Timely retreat is better than to fight;", "Alone, we must withdraw from hostile might.”"]}, {"id": "E6.7.40", "lines": ["The youthful king then reached the bridge in pain,", "Pursued by Bahram, vengeance in his brain."]}, {"id": "E6.7.41", "lines": ["Khosrow beheld him, stopped, and called his guide,", "The seasoned Gostaham, to stand by his side."]}, {"id": "E6.7.42", "lines": ["“Bring me my bow,” he cried, “whose tongue shall tell", "My words in battle, where it serves me well.”"]}, {"id": "E6.7.43", "lines": ["The treasurer brought the bow at his command;", "For Gostaham directed what was planned."]}, {"id": "E6.7.44", "lines": ["The Shah poured arrows forth, and darkness spread;", "One shaft would stitch a helmet to a head."]}, {"id": "E6.7.45", "lines": ["Then Bahram charged with kamand raised on high,", "A dragon under him against the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.7.46", "lines": ["His horse was bare of armor in the fight;", "The king turned back and saw him with delight."]}, {"id": "E6.7.47", "lines": ["He strung his bow and struck the charger’s chest;", "The wounded horse collapsed and lay at rest."]}, {"id": "E6.7.48", "lines": ["The sepahbod, on foot, then raised his shield;", "He grasped his head, distressed upon the field."]}, {"id": "E6.7.49", "lines": ["Then Yalan-sina charged; the king, in scorn,", "Shot at the horse by which the chief was borne."]}, {"id": "E6.7.50", "lines": ["On foot he left the bridge, his charger lame;", "The troops withdrew along the way they came."]}, {"id": "E6.7.51", "lines": ["When Bahram drew away from bridge and fight,", "Khosrow destroyed the bridge and took to flight."]}, {"id": "E6.7.52", "lines": ["He sped to Tisfoon, full of grief and fears,", "His heart in pain, his eyes with bloody tears."]}, {"id": "E6.7.53", "lines": ["He barred the city gates with iron tight,", "And sat with anxious thoughts of all their plight."]}, {"id": "E6.7.54", "lines": ["He summoned all his chiefs, from ward and post,", "And manned the gates where danger threatened most."]}, {"id": "E6.8.1", "lines": ["Then heart-transfixed, with blood-red tears, he came", "Before his sire in sorrow, grief, and shame."]}, {"id": "E6.8.2", "lines": ["He paid his father homage, grieving then,", "And lingered long before he spoke again."]}, {"id": "E6.8.3", "lines": ["“The mighty horseman, the Pahlevan you chose,", "Came like a king whose royal splendor glows."]}, {"id": "E6.8.4", "lines": ["He came with farr and with a mighty force;", "He spurned my counsel and pursued his course."]}, {"id": "E6.8.5", "lines": ["He cared for nothing but the clash of war;", "May no such name be honored evermore."]}, {"id": "E6.8.6", "lines": ["Against my will we fought a bitter fray,", "And many suffered under Fate that day."]}, {"id": "E6.8.7", "lines": ["My troops all left me then, and would not stay;", "They scorned me like a stranger on the way."]}, {"id": "E6.8.8", "lines": ["They hailed Bahram as king, nor gave a thought", "To all the perils with which this was fraught."]}, {"id": "E6.8.9", "lines": ["His mountain-moving troops pursued my flight", "To Nahravan’s great bridge with all their might."]}, {"id": "E6.8.10", "lines": ["When hope of holding out had failed, I fled,", "And slipped the net of ruin round me spread."]}, {"id": "E6.8.11", "lines": ["As I now weigh the profit and the cost,", "Arabs alone can win back what is lost."]}, {"id": "E6.8.12", "lines": ["If you command, I shall bring Arab steeds,", "And countless horsemen for our battle needs.”"]}, {"id": "E6.8.13", "lines": ["Hormizd replied, “This plan will bring no gain;", "Your footing is too weak for such a strain."]}, {"id": "E6.8.14", "lines": ["To go to them is toil; their tents are bare", "Of wealth for you, of arms against despair."]}, {"id": "E6.8.15", "lines": ["The Arabs will not help where no reward", "Or treasure waits to draw them to your sword."]}, {"id": "E6.8.16", "lines": ["For payment they may hand you to your foes,", "And leave you helpless in your bitter woes."]}, {"id": "E6.8.17", "lines": ["Yet God will aid you; Fortune’s face may turn,", "And smiling farr beside your banner burn."]}, {"id": "E6.8.18", "lines": ["If you would quit this land and elsewhere roam,", "Depart at once; in Rum seek safer home."]}, {"id": "E6.8.19", "lines": ["Tell Caesar all this helpless servant’s plea;", "Repeat my words to him as words from me."]}, {"id": "E6.8.20", "lines": ["There wealth abounds, with Christian troops prepared,", "Great legions armed, no gold or iron spared;"]}, {"id": "E6.8.21", "lines": ["For Caesar springs from noble Salm of old,", "Whom Fereydoon enriched with crowns of gold:"]}, {"id": "E6.8.22", "lines": ["That ancient stock will recognize your claim,", "And shield an allied prince in honor’s name!”"]}, {"id": "E6.8.23", "lines": ["Then Khosrow kissed the earth and gave due praise", "To God, who governs all men’s nights and days."]}, {"id": "E6.8.24", "lines": ["To Bandvi, Gostaham, and Gordvi then", "He said, “We dwell with toil and grief again."]}, {"id": "E6.8.25", "lines": ["Prepare at once; pack up and take the road,", "And leave our land beneath the rebel’s goad.”"]}, {"id": "E6.8.26", "lines": ["Just then the watchman cried, “O just Shah, hear!", "Dark dust has risen on the roadway near."]}, {"id": "E6.8.27", "lines": ["A dragon on the army’s flag is shown;", "Like that at Nahravan, by Bahram flown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.8.28", "lines": ["Khosrow Parviz mounted like smoke in flight,", "His blue flag streamed behind him in their sight."]}, {"id": "E6.8.29", "lines": ["He fled like dust for Rum; then, looking back,", "He saw the two ride slowly on his track."]}, {"id": "E6.8.30", "lines": ["He shouted, hot with anger, “Shameless two!", "Why lag so slow with foemen close in view?"]}, {"id": "E6.8.31", "lines": ["Have those pursuers now become your friends?", "Why lag while danger on our backs descends?”"]}, {"id": "E6.8.32", "lines": ["Bandvi replied, “O king, take no alarm;", "He will not see our dust or do us harm."]}, {"id": "E6.8.33", "lines": ["The army’s great banner is far away;", "Our friends have weighed this flight, and this they say:"]}, {"id": "E6.8.34", "lines": ["This flight will fail. Bahram will come and bring", "The crown again to Hormizd as the king."]}, {"id": "E6.8.35", "lines": ["He then will take the minister’s place beside", "The Shah, and serve with counsel as his guide."]}, {"id": "E6.8.36", "lines": ["From Hormizd he will write to Caesar thus:", "‘A worthless slave has fled in fear from us."]}, {"id": "E6.8.37", "lines": ["Grant him no refuge under Rum’s high dome;", "Let him not rest in peace or make a home."]}, {"id": "E6.8.38", "lines": ["Each time he rose, our troubles would increase;", "His crooked dealings robbed us of our peace."]}, {"id": "E6.8.39", "lines": ["When he arrives, put him in iron chain,", "And turn his gladness into grief and pain."]}, {"id": "E6.8.40", "lines": ["Return him swiftly to this royal court,", "Before his fortunes gather new support.’"]}, {"id": "E6.8.41", "lines": ["They then will bind him and return him fast,", "A guarded captive, weeping and aghast.”"]}, {"id": "E6.8.42", "lines": ["Khosrow heard this with troubled heart and mind,", "His cheek grew dark; he answered them resigned:"]}, {"id": "E6.8.43", "lines": ["“Ill Fortune may indeed treat us this way;", "Long words and grievous work are ours today."]}, {"id": "E6.8.44", "lines": ["Let us trust God.” He urged his steed and said,", "“Whatever good or evil lies ahead"]}, {"id": "E6.8.45", "lines": ["Must come as God has written on our brow;", "No anxious thought can turn it from us now."]}, {"id": "E6.8.46", "lines": ["May we not need an enemy in flight,", "Nor seek his help to save us from our plight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.8.47", "lines": ["When Khosrow rode ahead, the uncles turned,", "While in their breasts a ruthless hatred burned:"]}, {"id": "E6.8.48", "lines": ["They sought the darkened chamber of the king,", "And from a war-bow loosed the braided string;"]}, {"id": "E6.8.49", "lines": ["They cast the hempen cord around his head,", "And choked his royal breath until he lay dead!"]}, {"id": "E6.8.50", "lines": ["Without a wound to spill imperial blood,", "They quenched his spirit in a silent flood."]}, {"id": "E6.8.51", "lines": ["His throne and crown had vanished with his breath;", "As though he had not lived, he passed in death."]}, {"id": "E6.8.52", "lines": ["Such is the turning world: its fruits may grow", "Now sweet, now poisonous, bringing bitter woe."]}, {"id": "E6.8.53", "lines": ["Seek no sure profit from a stock like this;", "Its quest brings pain, not certainty or bliss."]}, {"id": "E6.8.54", "lines": ["When Hormizd’s life was ended, spent and flown,", "The throne and crown were left to stand alone."]}, {"id": "E6.8.55", "lines": ["Tabiras boomed; pale with fear, the killers eyed", "Bahram’s approaching flag, his troops beside."]}, {"id": "E6.8.56", "lines": ["Bandvi and Gostaham fled from the place,", "And reached Khosrow with fear upon each face."]}, {"id": "E6.8.57", "lines": ["He saw their pallor, knew their secret well,", "And why they had turned back; no need to tell."]}, {"id": "E6.8.58", "lines": ["His face grew yellow as the fenugreek", "In flower; yet he did not choose to speak."]}, {"id": "E6.8.59", "lines": ["He hid his knowledge from the pair, and showed", "No sign, but bade them shun the way men rode:"]}, {"id": "E6.8.60", "lines": ["“The army presses close; take the long road", "Through wilderness, and bear all hardship’s load.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.1", "lines": ["When Bahram entered in the royal hall,", "He chose fierce troops obedient to his call."]}, {"id": "E6.9.2", "lines": ["Six thousand men who swung the curving blade,", "All mailed for the pursuit and war arrayed."]}, {"id": "E6.9.3", "lines": ["He gave those troops to Siavash’s son,", "Bahram, to chase the king till flight was done."]}, {"id": "E6.9.4", "lines": ["And Khosrow crossed the wilds in desperate pain,", "To keep his life across that barren plain."]}, {"id": "E6.9.5", "lines": ["At last he reached a shrine of towering height,", "Its lofty battlements were lost to sight."]}, {"id": "E6.9.6", "lines": ["“The House of God,” the people called that place,", "A blessed shrine of penitence and grace."]}, {"id": "E6.9.7", "lines": ["There Christian clergy made their dwelling near", "The penitents who sought seclusion here."]}, {"id": "E6.9.8", "lines": ["The king asked of a priest, “What have you stored", "Of food within this house to spread the board?”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.9", "lines": ["A bishop said, “Unleavened loaves we keep,", "And watercress, if hunger cuts you deep."]}, {"id": "E6.9.10", "lines": ["If such plain fare will suit your need today,", "May it sustain you kindly on your way.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.11", "lines": ["The king dismounted with his weary train,", "And turned to prayer to ease his inward pain."]}, {"id": "E6.9.12", "lines": ["With his two courtiers, barsom twigs in hand,", "He prayed, then sat upon the yielding sand."]}, {"id": "E6.9.13", "lines": ["They ate in haste of what the place could give,", "That grief might let these weary men still live."]}, {"id": "E6.9.14", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said, “Blessed elder, tell me plain:", "Have you no wine to ease the heart of pain?”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.15", "lines": ["The bishop said, “We make clear wine from dates;", "But little now remains within our gates."]}, {"id": "E6.9.16", "lines": ["Like rosewater it shines, both pure and bright,", "And red as garnet in the shining light.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.17", "lines": ["He brought a cup whose color struck the eye,", "And dimmed the hue of Sol within the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.9.18", "lines": ["Khosrow drank three, then barley-bread he ate,", "While grief and wine contended with his fate."]}, {"id": "E6.9.19", "lines": ["When ruddy wine had warmed his weary head,", "He slept where soft sand made his troubled bed."]}, {"id": "E6.9.20", "lines": ["His head lay on Bandvi’s lap in trust,", "His soul grief-pierced, his fortune turned to dust."]}, {"id": "E6.9.21", "lines": ["Just as he slept, the bishop, old and wise,", "Came near and spoke of what had met his eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.9.22", "lines": ["“Black clouds of dust have risen on the way;", "Behind them comes an armed and vast array.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.23", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Our fortune now is grim;", "Both men and horses fail in every limb."]}, {"id": "E6.9.24", "lines": ["Our foes have found us when our strength is done;", "The day of helplessness has now begun.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.25", "lines": ["Then loyal Bandvi, friend in need, replied:", "“That chief draws near, with armed men at his side.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.26", "lines": ["Khosrow said, “Good friend, guide us through this hour;", "Show us a way beyond the foeman’s power.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.27", "lines": ["Bandvi replied, “I know what course to take,", "Though death may be the payment for your sake."]}, {"id": "E6.9.28", "lines": ["In this hard strait I give my life away,", "To save the monarch of the world today.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.29", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “A sage of Chin once said", "That loyal service lifts the faithful head."]}, {"id": "E6.9.30", "lines": ["Who sows his service at a monarch’s gate", "Shall reap in Paradise beyond this state."]}, {"id": "E6.9.31", "lines": ["When city walls are leveled to the ground,", "No lesser fort can stand there safe and sound."]}, {"id": "E6.9.32", "lines": ["When mighty cities perish from the land,", "Do not expect their hospitals to stand."]}, {"id": "E6.9.33", "lines": ["Use any stratagem you know to try;", "Yet still on holy God you must rely.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.34", "lines": ["Bandvi replied, “Give me the golden crown,", "The earrings, girdle, and the royal gown."]}, {"id": "E6.9.35", "lines": ["Give me the robe from Chin, gold-woven, bright,", "Its ruby color blazing in the light."]}, {"id": "E6.9.36", "lines": ["While I put all these on, do not remain;", "Go with your troops across the open plain."]}, {"id": "E6.9.37", "lines": ["Fly like a ship its sailor drives at sea;", "With all your troops, make haste away from me.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.38", "lines": ["The youth obeyed Bandvi without delay,", "And rode beside the wind upon his way."]}, {"id": "E6.9.39", "lines": ["Gostaham rode beside him, grim and wan,", "His heart weighed down with grief as they fled on."]}, {"id": "E6.9.40", "lines": ["When Khosrow vanished in that swift retreat,", "Bandvi prepared his stratagem complete."]}, {"id": "E6.9.41", "lines": ["He told the bishop, “Seek the mountain height;", "Stay out of every hostile rider’s sight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.42", "lines": ["Then Bandvi swiftly entered in the shrine,", "And shut the iron door with firm design."]}, {"id": "E6.9.43", "lines": ["He donned the robe embroidered all with gold,", "And set the royal crown on, bright and bold."]}, {"id": "E6.9.44", "lines": ["He climbed the roof and looked across the plain;", "On every side he saw the hostile train."]}, {"id": "E6.9.45", "lines": ["He waited while the armed men, fierce of face,", "Drew close beneath the walls around the place."]}, {"id": "E6.9.46", "lines": ["He stood upon the roof in open sight,", "Clad in the signs of kingship, gleaming bright."]}, {"id": "E6.9.47", "lines": ["They saw the crown, the earrings, torque, and gold,", "And cried, “Khosrow is trapped within the hold!”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.48", "lines": ["When Bandvi knew the foe had been deceived,", "He hurried from the roof, his aim achieved."]}, {"id": "E6.9.49", "lines": ["He swiftly donned his ordinary clothes,", "Then climbed the roof again above his foes."]}, {"id": "E6.9.50", "lines": ["Fearless, he said, “Young warriors, answer true:", "Which chief among you leads and speaks for you?"]}, {"id": "E6.9.51", "lines": ["I bear a message from the Shah today,", "For him who leads your warriors’ array.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.52", "lines": ["The son of Siavash, in answer brief,", "Said, “I am Bahram, and I am the chief.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.53", "lines": ["Bandvi replied, “The Shah has said, ‘My road", "Has sorely tried me with its weary load."]}, {"id": "E6.9.54", "lines": ["Our beasts are bruised and weary from the way;", "The long road leaves them broken where they stay."]}, {"id": "E6.9.55", "lines": ["With five companions I have come to rest", "Within this house, by toil and pain oppressed."]}, {"id": "E6.9.56", "lines": ["At dawn I shall ride with you, and proceed", "To proud Bahram Chubin with every speed."]}, {"id": "E6.9.57", "lines": ["I seek no further time than that, unless", "High heaven sends some aid in my distress."]}, {"id": "E6.9.58", "lines": ["My ancestors upheld their faith and ways,", "And honored lesser men in adverse days."]}, {"id": "E6.9.59", "lines": ["From shining sun to earth beneath our feet,", "God’s will alone directs all we shall meet.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.60", "lines": ["The chief agreed; all those who heard were stirred,", "And pitied Khosrow when they heard that word."]}, {"id": "E6.9.61", "lines": ["The troopers all dismounted for the night,", "And kept their guard around the holy site."]}, {"id": "E6.9.62", "lines": ["Next day Bandvi went to the roof and cried:", "“The Shah still prays; let him in peace abide."]}, {"id": "E6.9.63", "lines": ["He prayed all night; the sun is high today;", "Do not afflict him with the burning ray."]}, {"id": "E6.9.64", "lines": ["Let him rest here today; when dawn is bright,", "He will ride with your troops and end his flight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.65", "lines": ["“This may prove trifling,” Bahram told each chief,", "“Or prove a weighty matter past belief."]}, {"id": "E6.9.66", "lines": ["If pressed too hard, his anger may arise,", "And he may fall upon us by surprise."]}, {"id": "E6.9.67", "lines": ["He is an army in himself, and bold,", "World-seeking, shrewd, a warrior hard to hold."]}, {"id": "E6.9.68", "lines": ["If he should fall, Bahram Chubin will turn", "His wrath on us; for this our lives will burn."]}, {"id": "E6.9.69", "lines": ["Best wait today, though stores are running low,", "And see if without conflict he will go.”"]}, {"id": "E6.9.70", "lines": ["Thus matters stood till night climbed mountain height;", "The troops closed round; on each side fires burned bright."]}, {"id": "E6.10.1", "lines": ["When earth grew sun-hued, eloquent Bandvi", "Climbed to the roof where all the ranks could see."]}, {"id": "E6.10.2", "lines": ["“Young Bahram, Pahlevan,” cried Bandvi then,", "“Look on these walls, and hear my words again!"]}, {"id": "E6.10.3", "lines": ["While you stood watchful through two nights and days,", "The Shah spurred westward through the desert haze;"]}, {"id": "E6.10.4", "lines": ["Though eagle-winged you soared above the sun,", "You could not track the prince whose flight is done!"]}, {"id": "E6.10.5", "lines": ["He crosses now into the Roman lands,", "Beyond the reach of all your rebel bands."]}, {"id": "E6.10.6", "lines": ["But grant me quarter; I shall gladly go", "Before your chief and tell him all I know."]}, {"id": "E6.10.7", "lines": ["About our group of men, both low and high,", "Whatever he may ask, I shall reply."]}, {"id": "E6.10.8", "lines": ["If not, I don my armor for the fight", "And meet you as a warrior, with full might.”"]}, {"id": "E6.10.9", "lines": ["The young man’s heart grew old beneath his grief;", "He turned and spoke to every fellow chief:"]}, {"id": "E6.10.10", "lines": ["“What profit comes if Bandvi now is slain?", "His death will bring us neither news nor gain."]}, {"id": "E6.10.11", "lines": ["The better course is this: take him alive,", "That through his answers our designs may thrive."]}, {"id": "E6.10.12", "lines": ["Before the Pahlevan let him be led,", "To gain an honored crown or lose his head.”"]}, {"id": "E6.10.13", "lines": ["He called, “You schemer, take your words of blame", "To Chubin; let him hear the case you claim.”"]}, {"id": "E6.10.14", "lines": ["Bandvi the Lion left the heights behind", "And rode beside the chiefs, of fearless mind."]}, {"id": "E6.10.15", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin heard his troops had returned,", "And how revenge in Khosrow’s bosom burned."]}, {"id": "E6.10.16", "lines": ["He heard the Shah had fled to Rum; his ire", "At Siavash’s son blazed up like fire."]}, {"id": "E6.10.17", "lines": ["“You luckless wretch! This task surpassed your skill;", "I praised a man unfit to do my will!”"]}, {"id": "E6.10.18", "lines": ["The sepahbod, in pride, called Bandvi then,", "And poured his anger out before his men:"]}, {"id": "E6.10.19", "lines": ["“You miscreant, deceitful, lying man,", "Who fooled my troops by trickery and plan!"]}, {"id": "E6.10.20", "lines": ["Your treacherous heart could find no quiet rest;", "You joined that cursed stripling, breast to breast:"]}, {"id": "E6.10.21", "lines": ["You teach a boy the wickedness of state,", "Reviving ancient feuds and bitter hate!”"]}, {"id": "E6.10.22", "lines": ["Bandvi replied, “Exalted chief, be still;", "Seek truth from me, and curb your angry will."]}, {"id": "E6.10.23", "lines": ["Know that the king of kings is kin to me;", "His greatness and his bounty guide my plea."]}, {"id": "E6.10.24", "lines": ["For him I risked my life, as duty bade;", "I did what must be done, and gave him aid."]}, {"id": "E6.10.25", "lines": ["If you are truly chief, act straight and plain;", "Let justice rule; let wrath no longer reign.”"]}, {"id": "E6.10.26", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I will not take your breath", "For this offense, nor put you now to death."]}, {"id": "E6.10.27", "lines": ["But Khosrow’s hand will kill you soon; that day", "You will admit the truth of what I say.”"]}, {"id": "E6.10.28", "lines": ["They bound his limbs with irons, and conveyed", "The captive to young Bahram’s watchful blade."]}, {"id": "E6.10.29", "lines": ["Chubin sat brooding till the day had fled,", "With dark forebodings circling in his head."]}, {"id": "E6.11.1", "lines": ["When Sol took up his sword and cleft the night,", "Bahram Chubin called chiefs in jowshans bright."]}, {"id": "E6.11.2", "lines": ["He called Iran’s nobles to his side,", "And set them high where kings in glory bide."]}, {"id": "E6.11.3", "lines": ["With golden seats about the throne now placed,", "He sat in joy, with royal triumph graced."]}, {"id": "E6.11.4", "lines": ["Then with a mighty utterance he spoke,", "And from his lips a kingly question broke:"]}, {"id": "E6.11.5", "lines": ["“O noble, honored men, now make reply;", "Advise me truly under Fortune’s sky."]}, {"id": "E6.11.6", "lines": ["Search all the world: none worse than Zahhak came,", "Who slew his sire to win a monarch’s name."]}, {"id": "E6.11.7", "lines": ["Through that dark deed Iran fell to his hand,", "And evil’s shadow covered all the land."]}, {"id": "E6.11.8", "lines": ["Now Khosrow, cursed, has slain his father too;", "He fled to Rum when that foul deed was through."]}, {"id": "E6.11.9", "lines": ["Until a worthy royal heir is found", "To wear the crown, with kingly girdle bound,"]}, {"id": "E6.11.10", "lines": ["Who is the man among us fit to stand,", "And raise the ancient customs of the land?"]}, {"id": "E6.11.11", "lines": ["By Him who keeps the sun in heaven bright,", "I pledge my aid to set this matter right.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.12", "lines": ["The nobles heard the famous chieftain’s word,", "And in the hall no voice of dissent stirred."]}, {"id": "E6.11.13", "lines": ["Then Shahran Guraz, aged, brave, and bold,", "A warrior chief, stood eminent and old."]}, {"id": "E6.11.14", "lines": ["He answered, “You are helper of the world,", "A prince before whose flag the foe is hurled."]}, {"id": "E6.11.15", "lines": ["Had you not faced the threat when Saveh came,", "No man could match his might or check his aim."]}, {"id": "E6.11.16", "lines": ["He crossed our border to make free men slaves,", "And roll Iran beneath invading waves."]}, {"id": "E6.11.17", "lines": ["You armed yourself and turned that trouble back;", "Iran was safe from danger and attack."]}, {"id": "E6.11.18", "lines": ["Four hundred thousand warriors in the fight", "Fled from your single shaft in broken flight."]}, {"id": "E6.11.19", "lines": ["Thus Iran rested after heat and strife;", "Her throne befits your Fortune and your life."]}, {"id": "E6.11.20", "lines": ["Whoever dares to turn from your command,", "Or shuns the pact by which we take our stand,"]}, {"id": "E6.11.21", "lines": ["However brave, we shall compel him still,", "Though Khosrow be the cause that moves his will.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.22", "lines": ["He spoke and sat; Khorasan’s chief drew near,", "And stood before Bahram devoid of fear."]}, {"id": "E6.11.23", "lines": ["He said, “This elder, wise in ancient lore,", "Has spoken of the deeds that went before."]}, {"id": "E6.11.24", "lines": ["He told of all the good that you have done,", "And cheered the hearts of those here, every one."]}, {"id": "E6.11.25", "lines": ["Yet in the Zand-Avesta, Zardosht gave", "A saying honest minds should heed and save:"]}, {"id": "E6.11.26", "lines": ["Whoever turns from God, let counsel guide", "His steps for one full year, with needs supplied."]}, {"id": "E6.11.27", "lines": ["If, when that year has passed, he still should stray,", "The Shah commands his death without delay."]}, {"id": "E6.11.28", "lines": ["If he remains the just Shah’s open foe,", "Then strike his head and let his lifeblood flow.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.29", "lines": ["He spoke and sat; then Farrokhzad arose,", "And weighed just speech against misfortune’s blows."]}, {"id": "E6.11.30", "lines": ["“O helpful chief,” he said, “let right prevail;", "Let none rejoice in words that tip the scale."]}, {"id": "E6.11.31", "lines": ["May you be blessed, Bahram; may your sight", "Sustain the world and keep its order bright."]}, {"id": "E6.11.32", "lines": ["If what we say is judged unfit to stand,", "The conquering God lends us no helping hand."]}, {"id": "E6.11.33", "lines": ["This throne befits you; through your heart’s pure light,", "You cleanse the realm and set its wrongs to right."]}, {"id": "E6.11.34", "lines": ["May evil hands and tongues be kept at bay;", "May you, our Shah, live on in joy each day.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.35", "lines": ["He sat; then Khazarvan, the chieftain, came,", "A lion-hearted chief of noble name."]}, {"id": "E6.11.36", "lines": ["He said, “Though many men talk much today,", "The right still shows a better, plainer way."]}, {"id": "E6.11.37", "lines": ["Dispatch a cameleer with utmost speed;", "Do not delay or turn from wisdom’s lead."]}, {"id": "E6.11.38", "lines": ["Let not Khosrow Parviz, exalted still,", "Wear out the road to you through fear of ill."]}, {"id": "E6.11.39", "lines": ["Seek pardon for your deeds; do not now climb", "The throne too boldly in an evil time."]}, {"id": "E6.11.40", "lines": ["No chief of chiefs deserves the royal throne", "While Khosrow lives to claim it as his own."]}, {"id": "E6.11.41", "lines": ["If Khosrow’s wrath has filled your heart with fear,", "Quit Pars and Tisfoon; withdraw from here."]}, {"id": "E6.11.42", "lines": ["Keep power in Khorasan; live in peace,", "And write to him to let your quarrel cease."]}, {"id": "E6.11.43", "lines": ["Send plea on plea with humble, careful art;", "Perhaps Khosrow may yet relent at heart.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.44", "lines": ["Before he moved, Zad Farrokh rose upright,", "And spoke with justice clear before their sight:"]}, {"id": "E6.11.45", "lines": ["“O chiefs of noble race, I listened long", "To Iran’s chosen leaders, right and wrong."]}, {"id": "E6.11.46", "lines": ["First comes a slavish plan, both dark and grave:", "To make a Pahlevan the Shah we crave."]}, {"id": "E6.11.47", "lines": ["Such counsel sickens every wise man’s frame,", "And brings a noble warrior lasting shame."]}, {"id": "E6.11.48", "lines": ["Khorasan’s words were lofty in their tone;", "Yet in them wisdom’s light has never shone."]}, {"id": "E6.11.49", "lines": ["But Farrokhzad spoke rashly, fierce and hot;", "Sound counsel has restraint; his words did not."]}, {"id": "E6.11.50", "lines": ["The fourth was Khazarvan, whose words rang true;", "His counsel kept the wiser course in view."]}, {"id": "E6.11.51", "lines": ["Begin with Zahhak, Arab, foul of mind,", "Whose unjust rule left righteousness behind."]}, {"id": "E6.11.52", "lines": ["He slew proud Jamshid, king of ancient fame,", "And seized the world through violence and shame."]}, {"id": "E6.11.53", "lines": ["The holy then grieved to see the Div reign,", "Their hearts oppressed with sorrow and with pain."]}, {"id": "E6.11.54", "lines": ["Next Afrasiab, miscreant of Turan,", "Crossed streams and raised his sword against Iran."]}, {"id": "E6.11.55", "lines": ["He cut off Nohzar’s head with ruthless steel;", "The fortunes of the land began to reel."]}, {"id": "E6.11.56", "lines": ["Third, Iskandar of Rum came to invade,", "Ravaged Iran, and there his dwelling made."]}, {"id": "E6.11.57", "lines": ["He slew brave Dara, noble, battle-tried,", "And joy and rest throughout Iran had died."]}, {"id": "E6.11.58", "lines": ["Fourth, foul Khoshnavaz laid our honor low,", "And dealt Iran a catastrophic blow:"]}, {"id": "E6.11.59", "lines": ["Heytal’s fierce warriors slew King Pirooz then,", "The pride and glory of Kayanian men;"]}, {"id": "E6.11.60", "lines": ["Yet those four scourges sprang from foreign seed,", "While we today perpetrate a fouler deed:"]}, {"id": "E6.11.61", "lines": ["Our very army drives our prince astray,", "To beg for refuge in a land away!”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.62", "lines": ["He sat and wept; his eyes were washed in grief,", "While sullen silence seized on every chief."]}, {"id": "E6.11.63", "lines": ["Bahram grew pale; then Sambaz took his stand,", "A veteran with Indian sword in hand."]}, {"id": "E6.11.64", "lines": ["Before the gathered chiefs, the elder cried:", "“This noble Pahlevan stands justified."]}, {"id": "E6.11.65", "lines": ["Until one born of royal race shall rise,", "And claim the realm before the nation’s eyes,"]}, {"id": "E6.11.66", "lines": ["He should now take the royal crown and reign,", "Since conquering Fortune marks him for that gain.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.67", "lines": ["Bahram, chief of warriors, heard him through,", "And from its sheath his sharpened sword he drew."]}, {"id": "E6.11.68", "lines": ["He cried, “If in this quarter we should find", "A woman of the royal Shahs’ own kind,"]}, {"id": "E6.11.69", "lines": ["My sharpened sword shall strike her head away;", "Her final breath shall rise that very day."]}, {"id": "E6.11.70", "lines": ["I will let no one rule this ancient land,", "Or ride as king amid a mounted band.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.71", "lines": ["When chiefs possessed by Ahriman had heard", "Their leader’s foul and overweening word,"]}, {"id": "E6.11.72", "lines": ["They drew their scimitars and rose as one,", "And uttered monstrous words beneath the sun:"]}, {"id": "E6.11.73", "lines": ["“Bahram is Shah; we serve him and shall tread", "Upon our foes and crush each hostile head.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.74", "lines": ["When Bahram saw the drawn swords in their hands,", "He chose good sense and issued these commands:"]}, {"id": "E6.11.75", "lines": ["“Who leaves his seat and grips his sword,” he said,", "“Shall lose his hand to sober him instead.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.76", "lines": ["He sought the garden; one by one they went,", "Their faces furrowed and their spirits spent."]}, {"id": "E6.11.77", "lines": ["When pitch-hued night unveiled its starry face,", "And watchmen’s cries resounded through the place,"]}, {"id": "E6.11.78", "lines": ["He called for pen and paper; then there came", "A wise and generous scribe to serve his aim."]}, {"id": "E6.11.79", "lines": ["The scribe set out the inkstand and the pen.", "Bahram said, “Write this pact from Iran’s men:"]}, {"id": "E6.11.80", "lines": ["‘Bahram Chubin is Shah, let him be praised,", "Deserving crown and throne, by Fortune raised."]}, {"id": "E6.11.81", "lines": ["He seeks but truth, in all he may reveal,", "And equally in what he may conceal.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.82", "lines": ["The writing done, they pondered through the night,", "And troubled faces waited for the light."]}, {"id": "E6.11.83", "lines": ["When lapis-colored darkness passed away,", "And all the world grew sun-gilt with the day,"]}, {"id": "E6.11.84", "lines": ["A Fortune-favored man prepared the hall", "Within Bahram Chubin’s palace wall."]}, {"id": "E6.11.85", "lines": ["He set the throne; they swept the great hall bare,", "Then hung the crown above the royal chair."]}, {"id": "E6.11.86", "lines": ["Upon the golden throne they set the seat;", "Then opened court, its setting now complete."]}, {"id": "E6.11.87", "lines": ["He took his place as Shah upon the throne;", "He wore the crown; his power was plainly shown."]}, {"id": "E6.11.88", "lines": ["The scribe then brought the royal scroll to light,", "On precious silk inscribed, both fair and bright."]}, {"id": "E6.11.89", "lines": ["Each chief then testified and signed his name:", "“Bahram is monarch, worthy of his fame.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.90", "lines": ["He sealed it with his golden seal and said:", "“Let holy God bear witness overhead."]}, {"id": "E6.11.91", "lines": ["This realm is mine; may kings of my descent", "Hold crown and throne through ages heaven-sent."]}, {"id": "E6.11.92", "lines": ["For one full thousand years may they remain,", "With son succeeding son throughout that reign.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.93", "lines": ["On Khorshid day, when Azar’s month was new,", "The spheres revolved in portents strange to view:"]}, {"id": "E6.11.94", "lines": ["A lesser star usurped the solar throne;", "The world was turned to dust and shadows lone;"]}, {"id": "E6.11.95", "lines": ["The royal cypress fell beneath the blade,", "While choking briars filled the garden glade."]}, {"id": "E6.11.96", "lines": ["Then Bahram spoke: “Our strife has passed away;", "No vengeance stands among us here today."]}, {"id": "E6.11.97", "lines": ["Whoever will not own this settlement,", "Whether upright or false in his intent,"]}, {"id": "E6.11.98", "lines": ["May stay three days; then, at the fourth day’s glow,", "Must leave Iran and straight to Khosrow go.”"]}, {"id": "E6.11.99", "lines": ["Men blessed him, though their hearts denied the word:", "“May earth not lack you!” through the hall was heard."]}, {"id": "E6.11.100", "lines": ["But those still loyal to their rightful king", "Grieved that Bahram now ruled everything."]}, {"id": "E6.11.101", "lines": ["They left Iran and made for Rum’s frontier,", "Dispersing from the land they held so dear."]}, {"id": "E6.12.1", "lines": ["For seventy days Bandvi, a cheetah bound,", "Lay prisoned where Bahram held guarded ground."]}, {"id": "E6.12.2", "lines": ["Bahram, the son of Siavash, kept ward,", "Yet grieved to keep him captive for his lord."]}, {"id": "E6.12.3", "lines": ["Still scheming in his bonds, Bandvi began", "To lure the youth with every practiced plan."]}, {"id": "E6.12.4", "lines": ["“Despair not of Iran’s true monarch’s right;", "Though Fortune tarries, day will follow night."]}, {"id": "E6.12.5", "lines": ["Though Pirooz fell, and Fortune turned away,", "Though Khoshnavaz prevailed upon that day,"]}, {"id": "E6.12.6", "lines": ["In King Qobad the royal line rose new,", "And God restored the throne where it was due."]}, {"id": "E6.12.7", "lines": ["So Bahram cannot keep the crown and throne;", "Can this usurper think it is his own?"]}, {"id": "E6.12.8", "lines": ["Let none of noble stock so lose his way", "That he should throw his life like dust away."]}, {"id": "E6.12.9", "lines": ["Count on your fingers; two months more shall bring", "Rum’s legions to Iran against this king."]}, {"id": "E6.12.10", "lines": ["They shall one day set crown and throne alight,", "And sweep his claims to kingship out of sight."]}, {"id": "E6.12.11", "lines": ["They shall break the jewels on this rebel’s head,", "And all his dreams of sovereignty lie dead.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.12", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “If Khosrow grants me grace,", "Your counsel in my heart shall have its place."]}, {"id": "E6.12.13", "lines": ["I will obey you wholly in this thing,", "But swear an oath to bind the help you bring:"]}, {"id": "E6.12.14", "lines": ["By moon, Azargashasp, by throne and crown,", "That when Khosrow returns with Rum’s renown,"]}, {"id": "E6.12.15", "lines": ["When he brings Caesar’s legions to this land,", "You shall secure my life from his own hand."]}, {"id": "E6.12.16", "lines": ["Let no Iranian word revoke his grace;", "Do not dismiss the peril that I face.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.17", "lines": ["He brought the Zand-Avesta to his side,", "And made Bandvi swear by the words inside."]}, {"id": "E6.12.18", "lines": ["Bandvi took up the scroll and made this vow:", "“May pain and toil descend upon my brow,"]}, {"id": "E6.12.19", "lines": ["And may I never know one hour of rest,", "But dwell in grief, by lasting sorrow pressed,"]}, {"id": "E6.12.20", "lines": ["If I prove false. When Khosrow takes the throne,", "I shall approach and make your wishes known."]}, {"id": "E6.12.21", "lines": ["Once in his presence, I shall urge my quest", "Until he grants the mercy you request:"]}, {"id": "E6.12.22", "lines": ["A signet and a crown of high renown,", "To mark your rank in every field and town.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.23", "lines": ["Bahram, when he had heard the solemn vow,", "Believed that Bandvi’s heart was faithful now."]}, {"id": "E6.12.24", "lines": ["He said, “I shall disclose my scheme aloud:", "I shall strike down the tyrant, fierce and proud."]}, {"id": "E6.12.25", "lines": ["I shall ensnare Chubin within the hall,", "And at the feast my deadly sword shall fall."]}, {"id": "E6.12.26", "lines": ["The sea itself has not a drop to bring,", "Now that we have to name this Bahram king.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.27", "lines": ["Bandvi replied, “O seasoned man, attend:", "I know the path by which such troubles end."]}, {"id": "E6.12.28", "lines": ["When Khosrow comes from Rum with force and state,", "And takes the throne assigned by royal Fate,"]}, {"id": "E6.12.29", "lines": ["You will find Khosrow grants me every prayer;", "His heart will bend to any plea I bear."]}, {"id": "E6.12.30", "lines": ["For your past wrong I shall present my plea;", "He would give up his very crown to me."]}, {"id": "E6.12.31", "lines": ["If you will keep your word and hold no guile,", "Then loose my bonds and trust me for a while."]}, {"id": "E6.12.32", "lines": ["First think of Khosrow; this will make it clear", "What you intend, and news will reach his ear.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.33", "lines": ["Then Bahram’s face grew bright; he loosed the chain,", "And freed Bandvi from prison’s bitter pain."]}, {"id": "E6.12.34", "lines": ["When musk-hued night grew pale at dawn’s first ray,", "Bahram said, “If my heart holds firm today,"]}, {"id": "E6.12.35", "lines": ["When Chubin plays at polo, I shall aim", "A killing blow to end his royal claim."]}, {"id": "E6.12.36", "lines": ["Last night I planned with five to strike him down,", "And end his wicked grasp on throne and crown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.37", "lines": ["His jowshan brought, he drew it to his side,", "Then hid it under robes and went to ride."]}, {"id": "E6.12.38", "lines": ["The warrior’s wife was wicked, false of heart;", "She loved Chubin and played a traitor’s part."]}, {"id": "E6.12.39", "lines": ["She wished her spouse cut down and left to die,", "While love for Chubin burned within her eye."]}, {"id": "E6.12.40", "lines": ["She sent this secret warning to his ear:", "“O helpful chief, take heed; a threat is near."]}, {"id": "E6.12.41", "lines": ["Bahram conceals a jowshan in his robe;", "What evil he intends, I cannot probe."]}, {"id": "E6.12.42", "lines": ["Keep far from him; do not join him in play;", "Whatever harm he plans, keep well away.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.43", "lines": ["Chubin touched each back gently, keen to feel", "Beneath the robes the hidden links of steel."]}, {"id": "E6.12.44", "lines": ["He greeted each with courteous words of cheer;", "At last the son of Siavash drew near."]}, {"id": "E6.12.45", "lines": ["He found him mailed beneath his silken gear,", "And spoke with wrath for all the court to hear:"]}, {"id": "E6.12.46", "lines": ["“O viler than a snake! What man is found", "In jowshan under silk on polo-ground?”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.47", "lines": ["He drew his vengeful scimitar; one stroke", "Cut young Bahram through jowshan and through cloak."]}, {"id": "E6.12.48", "lines": ["The city heard that young Bahram was slain;", "When Bandvi learned, all light left heart and brain."]}, {"id": "E6.12.49", "lines": ["He donned his jowshan, mounted, filled with dread;", "With trembling hands he girt himself and fled."]}, {"id": "E6.12.50", "lines": ["He took Bahram’s kin and all allied,", "All those who staked their fortunes on his side."]}, {"id": "E6.12.51", "lines": ["They fled to keep Chubin’s revenge at bay;", "One stage beyond, more riders joined their way."]}, {"id": "E6.12.52", "lines": ["They pressed toward Ardabil with desperate speed,", "While fear behind them spurred each flying steed."]}, {"id": "E6.12.53", "lines": ["When Chubin left the polo game, he wore", "A robe whose bloodstains showed the wrath he bore."]}, {"id": "E6.12.54", "lines": ["He ordered Mahrwi, “Guard Bandvi for me!”", "They answered, “He has fled; the man is free."]}, {"id": "E6.12.55", "lines": ["When he was told of Bahram’s death that day,", "He mounted on the wind and fled away."]}, {"id": "E6.12.56", "lines": ["He grieved to hear about his comrade’s doom,", "And saw the road ahead wrapped all in gloom.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.57", "lines": ["The King cried: “Cursed be he whose witless end", "Fails to distinguish between foe and friend!"]}, {"id": "E6.12.58", "lines": ["One sleeps by elephant tusks in foolish pride;", "Another trusts his bark to ocean’s tide;"]}, {"id": "E6.12.59", "lines": ["A third provokes a monarch to his face;", "A fourth would grip a lion in embrace!"]}, {"id": "E6.12.60", "lines": ["Pity all four: their judgment runs perverse;", "Their headlong folly breeds their early curse!"]}, {"id": "E6.12.61", "lines": ["One calls a crowd to move a mountain’s height,", "Then grasps but wind for all his wasted might."]}, {"id": "E6.12.62", "lines": ["To sail in ships unfit to face the tide", "Is safer than to let rash haste decide."]}, {"id": "E6.12.63", "lines": ["You seek to see the spring, but turn away,", "Bewildered, with your anger on display."]}, {"id": "E6.12.64", "lines": ["Who takes a blind man as his guide will roam", "Lost on a road that never leads him home."]}, {"id": "E6.12.65", "lines": ["Who grips a dragon forfeits life and breath;", "The beast breaks free and brings its captor death."]}, {"id": "E6.12.66", "lines": ["Who tries a poison, sipping it to test,", "Wins but the mortal fire that burns his breast."]}, {"id": "E6.12.67", "lines": ["I spared Bandvi when first I had him caught;", "He schemed and won the freedom that he sought."]}, {"id": "E6.12.68", "lines": ["My deed is one for which I still must weep,", "And wait to learn what God would have me reap.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.69", "lines": ["Meanwhile Bandvi, with his devoted band,", "Sped like the wind across the rugged land;"]}, {"id": "E6.12.70", "lines": ["By secret tracks where desert creatures strayed,", "He rode until he saw a camp displayed:"]}, {"id": "E6.12.71", "lines": ["There noble Mawsil, northern frontier chief,", "Lay camped beside a stream in watchful grief;"]}, {"id": "E6.12.72", "lines": ["Brave Bandvi sought his tent in hopeful mood,", "And was received with fellowship and food;"]}, {"id": "E6.12.73", "lines": ["He bowed to Mawsil, and in private told", "How young Bahram had died, how treason rolled."]}, {"id": "E6.12.74", "lines": ["Mawsil replied, “Stay here with me and hear", "The latest news of Khosrow’s purpose clear;"]}, {"id": "E6.12.75", "lines": ["What Khosrow does in Rum, and what the news", "Reveals of peace or war; which he will choose.”"]}, {"id": "E6.12.76", "lines": ["Bandvi agreed to linger where they lay,", "And called his waiting comrades up that day."]}, {"id": "E6.13.1", "lines": ["Khosrow Parviz crossed parched terrain in pain;", "No guide was there; no grass grew on the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.13.2", "lines": ["Slack-reined, to Bahila they rode ahead,", "With bitter hearts, along the road they sped."]}, {"id": "E6.13.3", "lines": ["There all the well-disposed among the great", "Came out to meet the Shah outside the gate."]}, {"id": "E6.13.4", "lines": ["As he drew near, he bade his ranks alight", "There in the town, worn down by dust and flight."]}, {"id": "E6.13.5", "lines": ["Scarce had they done so when a courier came", "From Iran, riding hard with secret aim."]}, {"id": "E6.13.6", "lines": ["He bore a secret letter at his breast,", "From Bahram to the ruler, a request:"]}, {"id": "E6.13.7", "lines": ["“Detain all the armies that come this way;", "My troops pursue and will arrive today.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.8", "lines": ["The ruler read the letter’s hidden thought,", "And hastened to the Shah with what it brought."]}, {"id": "E6.13.9", "lines": ["Khosrow read on, amazed at Fortune’s change,", "And how her turn made all the world seem strange."]}, {"id": "E6.13.10", "lines": ["He feared pursuit and mourned his weary state,", "Then mounted swiftly and passed through the gate."]}, {"id": "E6.13.11", "lines": ["He gathered up his reins and onward went,", "Until he reached the Farat, travel-spent."]}, {"id": "E6.13.12", "lines": ["No rest was his within his own domain;", "His followers went hungry through the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.13.13", "lines": ["Then they beheld a wood and water bright,", "And on its grass the Shah bade them alight."]}, {"id": "E6.13.14", "lines": ["They strung a bow and sought for game to eat,", "But found no living quarry for their meat."]}, {"id": "E6.13.15", "lines": ["A caravan appeared, a laden train;", "A cameleer led on across the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.13.16", "lines": ["The youth beheld Khosrow and blessed his name,", "And honored him for farr and royal fame."]}, {"id": "E6.13.17", "lines": ["The noble Shah asked, “Tell me who you are,", "Your trade, and from what land you come so far.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.18", "lines": ["He said, “I am Kais, Haris’ noble son,", "Heir to Arab chiefs by lineage won."]}, {"id": "E6.13.19", "lines": ["From Mesr I came with caravan and gear;", "I am its chief and foremost cameleer."]}, {"id": "E6.13.20", "lines": ["Beside the Farat’s waters I abide,", "And from that home I came to this wood’s side.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.21", "lines": ["Khosrow asked, “What food have you to share,", "And rugs to spread? Our stores and gear are bare.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.22", "lines": ["The Arab answered, “Stay; I stand with you,", "With body, soul, and goods, devoted, true.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.23", "lines": ["He loved the Shah and brought a fatted cow;", "They slaughtered her beside the forest bough."]}, {"id": "E6.13.24", "lines": ["They kindled fire from sticks both green and dry,", "And sent the smoke ascending to the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.13.25", "lines": ["He grilled kabab; the Shah’s companions fed", "Upon the roasted meat, but had no bread."]}, {"id": "E6.13.26", "lines": ["The faithful said the prayers their creed had taught;", "The others ate the food the Arab brought."]}, {"id": "E6.13.27", "lines": ["Each chieftain made himself a place to rest;", "They slept, then rose to pray at God’s behest."]}, {"id": "E6.13.28", "lines": ["They offered prayers to God, the Judge Most Just,", "Who made the mighty and the weak from dust."]}, {"id": "E6.13.29", "lines": ["Then said the Shah, “Who bears the greater blame", "Shall find more honor with me, greater fame."]}, {"id": "E6.13.30", "lines": ["Still those who have done worst and gone astray,", "Rebelled, and left the Almighty’s righteous way,"]}, {"id": "E6.13.31", "lines": ["May trust me with assurance in their need;", "Give them fair hopes in counsel and in deed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.32", "lines": ["His comrades blessed him: “Upright, pure, and true,", "May joy protect you when hard times pursue."]}, {"id": "E6.13.33", "lines": ["May joy be yours through all the years ahead;", "May crown and throne be yours,” his comrades said."]}, {"id": "E6.13.34", "lines": ["He asked the Arab, “Tell me of the track;", "How shall my troops fare, and what shall they lack?”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.35", "lines": ["He said, “Some seventy farsangs you must go", "Through desert land and mountains, high and low."]}, {"id": "E6.13.36", "lines": ["Give me your leave, and let your haste abate;", "I shall bring meat and water if you wait.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.37", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “No other course remains;", "With food and guidance, we may cross these plains.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.38", "lines": ["The Arab sent a swift camel ahead,", "To show the troops where mountain pathways led."]}, {"id": "E6.13.39", "lines": ["They hurried on through toil and anxious care,", "With hunger, thirst, and dust upon the air."]}, {"id": "E6.13.40", "lines": ["Far off another caravan appeared,", "Upon the route by which the army steered."]}, {"id": "E6.13.41", "lines": ["A wealthy merchant came before the king;", "The Shah began to question everything:"]}, {"id": "E6.13.42", "lines": ["“Say where you travel, and what trade you ply;", "Declare your home beneath the turning sky.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.43", "lines": ["He said, “I am a merchant and a scribe;", "From Khorra-e-Ardeshir comes my tribe.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.44", "lines": ["“What name did your own father give to you?”", "“Mehran Setad,” he answered, speaking true."]}, {"id": "E6.13.45", "lines": ["The king requested goods and food from him,", "For all his weary troops grew faint and grim."]}, {"id": "E6.13.46", "lines": ["The chief replied, “Our stores are rich and vast,”", "Though on the merchant’s face a cloud was cast."]}, {"id": "E6.13.47", "lines": ["The Shah said, “When you meet a guest one day", "Upon the road, more wealth shall come your way.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.48", "lines": ["The merchant loosened bales of varied wares,", "And brought forth provender to ease their cares."]}, {"id": "E6.13.49", "lines": ["He sat upon the ground and blessed the king,", "While all received the food that he could bring."]}, {"id": "E6.13.50", "lines": ["When all had eaten, he came forth to stand", "Before the Shah, a ewer in his hand."]}, {"id": "E6.13.51", "lines": ["But Kharrad, son of Barzin, saw the scene,", "And quickly crossed the open space between."]}, {"id": "E6.13.52", "lines": ["He took the warm ewer to spare the king", "The shame the merchant’s service there might bring."]}, {"id": "E6.13.53", "lines": ["When next the merchant brought clear wine to him,", "Like bright rosewater, shining to the brim,"]}, {"id": "E6.13.54", "lines": ["Kharrad again received it from his hand,", "And gave the goblet by the Shah’s command."]}, {"id": "E6.13.55", "lines": ["In true observance servants profit find,", "For faithful service is repaid in kind."]}, {"id": "E6.13.56", "lines": ["The Shah then asked, “What route shall soldiers try?", "Where in that district does your dwelling lie?”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.57", "lines": ["He said, “O Shah, may wisdom be your guide;", "I am a Karzi merchant,” he replied."]}, {"id": "E6.13.58", "lines": ["He bade his scribe, Rozbeh, record the name", "And village of the youth from whom help came."]}, {"id": "E6.13.59", "lines": ["“Go on your way,” he said, “and let your heart", "Be wisdom’s warp and woof in every part.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.60", "lines": ["The little troop left that refreshing ground,", "And rode toward the Roman border’s bound:"]}, {"id": "E6.13.61", "lines": ["They reached the fortress of Karsan at last,", "Whose Christian wardens made the portals fast;"]}, {"id": "E6.13.62", "lines": ["They barred the gates in terror and surprise,", "And watched the strangers with suspicious eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.13.63", "lines": ["Within, they shot the bolts and stood aghast;", "The Shah remained outside, his heart downcast."]}, {"id": "E6.13.64", "lines": ["The royal exile waited, sore distressed,", "Three days outside, with hungry troops hard-pressed."]}, {"id": "E6.13.65", "lines": ["Upon the fourth he sent a man to say:", "“Our troops are few and worn upon the way."]}, {"id": "E6.13.66", "lines": ["We have not come to fight against this town;", "Do not let hunger wear our people down."]}, {"id": "E6.13.67", "lines": ["Send provender and relief in our need;", "Do not oppose us with so harsh a deed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.68", "lines": ["They scorned his words; his troops were weak and worn,", "Their strength by hunger and exhaustion torn."]}, {"id": "E6.13.69", "lines": ["Then suddenly a murky cloud arose,", "And roared like a war-lion at its foes."]}, {"id": "E6.13.70", "lines": ["A storm swept over that embattled place;", "From every quarter rose a cry for grace."]}, {"id": "E6.13.71", "lines": ["By midnight part of its great walls fell down;", "Amazement seized the people of the town."]}, {"id": "E6.13.72", "lines": ["The bishop prayed; they gathered food in fear,", "From every quarter, and drew quickly near."]}, {"id": "E6.13.73", "lines": ["Three venerable priests went forth that day,", "With Roman fruits and gifts in bright array."]}, {"id": "E6.13.74", "lines": ["They brought the Shah fine robes and a led horse,", "And begged forgiveness for their erring course."]}, {"id": "E6.13.75", "lines": ["“Our fault, O Shah, is manifest,” they cried;", "The noble youth did not reproach their pride."]}, {"id": "E6.13.76", "lines": ["Within the city walls a palace rose,", "Whose summit met the clouds in high repose."]}, {"id": "E6.13.77", "lines": ["Caesar had built its hall and domes that loom,", "With many slaves, the pride of royal Rum."]}, {"id": "E6.13.78", "lines": ["The Shah went in and left the dusty plain,", "Then walked the city streets despite his pain."]}, {"id": "E6.13.79", "lines": ["The Romans all acclaimed his royal feet,", "And strewed bright jewels through the echoing street."]}, {"id": "E6.13.80", "lines": ["Possessing that fair dwelling, he took rest,", "Though Roman exile still oppressed his breast."]}, {"id": "E6.13.81", "lines": ["He wrote to Caesar of the storm and rain,", "The blackened cloud, the town, and all its pain."]}, {"id": "E6.13.82", "lines": ["Then on toward Manwi went the royal train;", "He named it Minu on the open plain."]}, {"id": "E6.13.83", "lines": ["The shrewd, the wise, the great in power and fame,", "With priests and monks, before the monarch came."]}, {"id": "E6.13.84", "lines": ["They brought him gifts and offerings, and spoke", "Of storm and cloud, and how the tempest broke."]}, {"id": "E6.13.85", "lines": ["They said, “We are your slaves, and bow before", "The least command that issues from your door.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.86", "lines": ["He stayed three days; the fourth day brought the light,", "When Sol’s bright sword cut cloud and dark from sight."]}, {"id": "E6.13.87", "lines": ["Toward Warigh then the royal party came;", "Its cross and hospital had won great fame."]}, {"id": "E6.13.88", "lines": ["Upon the plain he saw a hermitage,", "And heard a hermit speaking, worn with age."]}, {"id": "E6.13.89", "lines": ["The Shah drew near the door and cried aloud:", "“May God bless you beneath this desert cloud."]}, {"id": "E6.13.90", "lines": ["Come forth, if you will leave your ancient cell,", "And may your worship long with blessing dwell.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.91", "lines": ["The hermit heard, descended from his place,", "And saw the Shah and knew his royal face."]}, {"id": "E6.13.92", "lines": ["He said, “In truth, you are Khosrow the king,", "Whom one man’s treachery to Rum would bring."]}, {"id": "E6.13.93", "lines": ["That wicked slave, puffed up with scorn and spite,", "Has driven you from throne and royal right."]}, {"id": "E6.13.94", "lines": ["All this affliction for your father’s throne", "Has forced you from the realm you call your own.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.95", "lines": ["He spoke at length; the Shah was cheered in heart,", "By all that kindness and prophetic art."]}, {"id": "E6.13.96", "lines": ["Amazed, they praised the Maker for the sage,", "Whose mind was burnished by his holy age;"]}, {"id": "E6.13.97", "lines": ["From saddle-bow the Shah addressed the seer,", "Who bowed in reverence as the prince drew near;"]}, {"id": "E6.13.98", "lines": ["To test his sight, young Khosrow said: “I ride", "To speak as herald for our sovereign’s side;"]}, {"id": "E6.13.99", "lines": ["I bear dispatches to Caesar’s royal hand,", "And shall return his answer to our band."]}, {"id": "E6.13.100", "lines": ["Will this my journey prosper? Let me know", "What end awaits me, whether joy or woe.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.101", "lines": ["He answered, “Do not speak as one who serves;", "The Shah commands the homage he deserves."]}, {"id": "E6.13.102", "lines": ["I knew you at first sight; do not deceive;", "Your holy Faith forbids the lies you weave."]}, {"id": "E6.13.103", "lines": ["Deceit is not your custom or your way;", "You have endured much toil from day to day."]}, {"id": "E6.13.104", "lines": ["At last you fled before your slave in fear.”", "Khosrow stood shamed, amazed at what came clear."]}, {"id": "E6.13.105", "lines": ["He started to excuse himself, but then", "The hermit said, “Do not begin again."]}, {"id": "E6.13.106", "lines": ["Ask what will come; take heart and be secure;", "Your coming here will lead to triumph pure."]}, {"id": "E6.13.107", "lines": ["Stand like a bough in fruit, with farr-lit face;", "God’s favor soon will lift you to your place."]}, {"id": "E6.13.108", "lines": ["He will bestow high Fortune, crown, and might;", "From Caesar you will gain both arms and right."]}, {"id": "E6.13.109", "lines": ["You shall have legions, and his daughter fair,", "A worthy bride to share the crown you bear."]}, {"id": "E6.13.110", "lines": ["Yazdan of all keeps watch and will assist", "Your battle with the slaves who now resist."]}, {"id": "E6.13.111", "lines": ["The miscreant will flee and then recall", "The days when Fortune raised him over all."]}, {"id": "E6.13.112", "lines": ["Far from the battlefield he will alight,", "And dwell removed from your victorious sight."]}, {"id": "E6.13.113", "lines": ["Yet rather than submit to you and stand,", "He will choose exile in a distant land."]}, {"id": "E6.13.114", "lines": ["Still they will shed his blood at your behest,", "And death will bring his rebel heart to rest.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.115", "lines": ["The Shah replied: “May God fulfill this sign;", "Yet tell me when the kingship shall be mine?”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.116", "lines": ["The hermit said: “Twelve months must pass away,", "And to their number add the fifteenth day:"]}, {"id": "E6.13.117", "lines": ["Then as the King of Kings, the world’s bright sun,", "Your throne shall rise, your enterprise be won!”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.118", "lines": ["The Shah then asked, “Who here will strive to bring", "Distress and pain upon me as his king?”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.119", "lines": ["The hermit said, “Bistam, a man of pride,", "Your uncle, in whose fortune you confide."]}, {"id": "E6.13.120", "lines": ["Beware of him, for he will bring you pain,", "And harm and sorrow in the years you reign.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.121", "lines": ["The Shah grew angry. “Speak,” he said. “Explain", "The truth behind these names, and make it plain."]}, {"id": "E6.13.122", "lines": ["Your mother named you Bistam; yet you claim", "Gostaham, when in battle, as your name.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.123", "lines": ["“This is my mother’s brother,” Khosrow cried;", "Then to the Shah the holy man replied:"]}, {"id": "E6.13.124", "lines": ["“Yes, he is that same man; of him beware:", "Through Gostaham you will know pain and care.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.125", "lines": ["“And afterward,” the Shah said, “what will be?”", "His counselor replied, “Let that thought flee."]}, {"id": "E6.13.126", "lines": ["From that time onward praise shall mark your days;", "No evil shall descend upon your ways."]}, {"id": "E6.13.127", "lines": ["If hardship comes, it comes by God’s decree;", "This rebel will disturb your peace,” said he."]}, {"id": "E6.13.128", "lines": ["“Then all shall be as you yourself command;", "For all his spite, his end is in your hand.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.129", "lines": ["Then Gostaham said, “King, dismiss this fear.", "By holy God who made the moon appear,"]}, {"id": "E6.13.130", "lines": ["Who fashioned such a Shah to rule mankind;", "By sun and moon, whose courses He designed;"]}, {"id": "E6.13.131", "lines": ["By Azargashasp, and by our Shah’s own head,", "And by his life, whose fame is widely spread:"]}, {"id": "E6.13.132", "lines": ["While Gostaham still draws the breath of life,", "He shall seek right and never turn to strife."]}, {"id": "E6.13.133", "lines": ["If ever I should choose another course,", "May Gostaham’s own soul depart its source."]}, {"id": "E6.13.134", "lines": ["Since God first made the world that all men see,", "No mortal has beheld His mystery’s key."]}, {"id": "E6.13.135", "lines": ["Why trust, then, what this Christian has declared,", "Or heed the idle words that he has shared?"]}, {"id": "E6.13.136", "lines": ["Grant me protection from this Christian’s claim;", "Do not seek cause to stain my loyal name."]}, {"id": "E6.13.137", "lines": ["Now I have sworn my oath before your sight;", "Do not let baseless doubt obscure the right.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.138", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Holy men speak true;", "And I have never witnessed wrong in you."]}, {"id": "E6.13.139", "lines": ["You do not stoop to folly or deceit,", "Nor set your mind where crooked counsels meet."]}, {"id": "E6.13.140", "lines": ["Yet heaven’s course may make a good man stray,", "For when God wills, even wisdom turns away.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.141", "lines": ["Then to the hermit: “May your heart be bright,", "And may your days be filled with joy and light.”"]}, {"id": "E6.13.142", "lines": ["He left the hermitage like lightning cast", "From cloud to earth, and rode to Warigh fast."]}, {"id": "E6.13.143", "lines": ["And when he reached the city on his way,", "The men of worth came forth without delay."]}, {"id": "E6.14.1", "lines": ["When Khosrow came, from noble Caesar’s side", "A horseman then appeared with courtly pride."]}, {"id": "E6.14.2", "lines": ["He said, “Ask what you will within our land;", "Conceal no wish; make known your full demand."]}, {"id": "E6.14.3", "lines": ["This realm is mine, yet you are equal here;", "So dwell secure and honored, free from fear."]}, {"id": "E6.14.4", "lines": ["Stay in this city, fearing no offense;", "My rule shall be your shelter and defense."]}, {"id": "E6.14.5", "lines": ["All Roman chiefs, however proud and high,", "Shall serve your need and never aid deny."]}, {"id": "E6.14.6", "lines": ["I shall seek neither food nor sleep nor rest,", "Till arms and legions answer your request.”"]}, {"id": "E6.14.7", "lines": ["The Shah rejoiced to hear that noble word;", "His anxious soul was eased by what he heard."]}, {"id": "E6.14.8", "lines": ["He called brave Gostaham, Balvi, and then", "Shapur and Andiyan, his seasoned men."]}, {"id": "E6.14.9", "lines": ["Kharrad, Barzin’s son, stood among the rest,", "To these the Shah his royal charge addressed:"]}, {"id": "E6.14.10", "lines": ["The monarch said, “At break of day prepare;", "Set golden saddles on each stallion rare."]}, {"id": "E6.14.11", "lines": ["Wear tunics woven with the gold of Chin;", "Be one in heart and purpose, conscience clean."]}, {"id": "E6.14.12", "lines": ["Depart and parley at great Caesar’s hall;", "Let courtesy and measured sense guide all."]}, {"id": "E6.14.13", "lines": ["Be wise, attentive; hear what he will say,", "And let your gracious speech prepare the way."]}, {"id": "E6.14.14", "lines": ["If Caesar goes to polo or the ground", "For archery, let all your skill be found."]}, {"id": "E6.14.15", "lines": ["Strive to the utmost with his chiefs in play;", "Let none of you be worsted there that day."]}, {"id": "E6.14.16", "lines": ["Let him know riding is Iran’s own art,", "And victory comes with a lion’s heart.”"]}, {"id": "E6.14.17", "lines": ["The Shah then said to Kharrad, Barzin’s heir:", "“Bring silk from Chin and black musk, with due care."]}, {"id": "E6.14.18", "lines": ["I must write Caesar with resplendent light,", "Like Sol in Paradise to gladden sight."]}, {"id": "E6.14.19", "lines": ["Let words be few, yet rich in meaning, so", "Each heart retains the wisdom they bestow."]}, {"id": "E6.14.20", "lines": ["His wise philosophers will weigh each word;", "Let no vain phrase within that court be heard."]}, {"id": "E6.14.21", "lines": ["They measure every word in all they do;", "Let them find nothing faulty or untrue."]}, {"id": "E6.14.22", "lines": ["When Caesar reads the letter, be so deft", "That none among them has an answer left.”"]}, {"id": "E6.14.23", "lines": ["Then to Balvi he said, “When Caesar speaks,", "Hear what he asks of me, and what he seeks."]}, {"id": "E6.14.24", "lines": ["To oath or treaty, kinship, pledge, or bond,", "With honeyed words be ready to respond."]}, {"id": "E6.14.25", "lines": ["You are my tongue before that foreign court,", "Interpreter of good and ill report."]}, {"id": "E6.14.26", "lines": ["Use every means to guard our royal fame;", "Save us from shame and safeguard Khosrow’s name."]}, {"id": "E6.14.27", "lines": ["Take my assurances; keep firm in mind", "These words, and leave no royal charge behind.”"]}, {"id": "E6.14.28", "lines": ["Those ardent veterans heard the youthful king,", "And blessed the crown that Fortune soon would bring."]}, {"id": "E6.14.29", "lines": ["They said, “May none but you the diadem wear,”", "Then went to Caesar with glad hearts and care."]}, {"id": "E6.14.30", "lines": ["When Caesar heard that men of lofty name,", "Khosrow’s Iranian envoys, to him came,"]}, {"id": "E6.14.31", "lines": ["And neared the palace, he without delay", "Sent legions out to meet them on the way."]}, {"id": "E6.14.32", "lines": ["He decked a palace with brocade of Rum,", "Gold-ground and jeweled, star-bright from the loom."]}, {"id": "E6.14.33", "lines": ["He sat upon his famous ivory seat,", "And donned the crown whose light made all complete."]}, {"id": "E6.14.34", "lines": ["He bade the chamberlains draw back the veil,", "And lead the envoys in their shimmering mail:"]}, {"id": "E6.14.35", "lines": ["First noble Gostaham, with stately tread,", "Advanced; then Balvi and Shapur were led;"]}, {"id": "E6.14.36", "lines": ["Kharrad and Andiyan, in gold arrayed,", "With jeweled belts and coronets displayed,"]}, {"id": "E6.14.37", "lines": ["Approached the throne, made low obeisance meet,", "And scattered lustrous pearls before his feet!"]}, {"id": "E6.14.38", "lines": ["They scattered gems before the throne’s bright gold;", "He asked of Khosrow, seeking to be told"]}, {"id": "E6.14.39", "lines": ["Of Iran, troops, and hardships on the way;", "Kharrad came near, the letter to display."]}, {"id": "E6.14.40", "lines": ["By Caesar’s order four gold seats were set;", "Four envoys sat where honor’s ranks were met."]}, {"id": "E6.14.41", "lines": ["The men of high and well-advised renown", "Sat, but Kharrad stood and would not sit down."]}, {"id": "E6.14.42", "lines": ["Then Caesar said, “A traveler should sit.”", "Kharrad replied, “The Shah has not deemed fit"]}, {"id": "E6.14.43", "lines": ["To give me right to sit while in your sight;", "I hold his letter and uphold his right."]}, {"id": "E6.14.44", "lines": ["By standing, I may serve this embassy,", "And show the Shah’s command through courtesy.”"]}, {"id": "E6.14.45", "lines": ["Then Caesar said, “Speak now. What says your king?”", "Kharrad began, and wisdom took its wing."]}, {"id": "E6.14.46", "lines": ["And Caesar held his words within his mind.", "Kharrad praised God, with heart and speech combined:"]}, {"id": "E6.14.47", "lines": ["“The Maker reigns above all heights, all-wise,", "And holds all might beneath His vaulted skies."]}, {"id": "E6.14.48", "lines": ["By His command the heavens turn and climb;", "He stands beyond all bounds of place and time."]}, {"id": "E6.14.49", "lines": ["The sphere and stars are works of His command;", "He shaped mankind from dust within His hand."]}, {"id": "E6.14.50", "lines": ["From earth He gave the living creatures birth,", "And first brought life to Kioumars on earth."]}, {"id": "E6.14.51", "lines": ["The line continued down to Fereydoon,", "Whom God chose from the great to grant His boon."]}, {"id": "E6.14.52", "lines": ["The hidden stock grew known, of high renown,", "Till Kay Qobad received the royal crown."]}, {"id": "E6.14.53", "lines": ["His house kept God’s true way and knew no ill;", "A slave now holds the Kayan throne at will."]}, {"id": "E6.14.54", "lines": ["I seek redress against injustice shown,", "Not crown or cap or girdle, nor the throne."]}, {"id": "E6.14.55", "lines": ["Whoever rules must wisdom’s gifts possess,", "With Fortune and renown to bring success,"]}, {"id": "E6.14.56", "lines": ["And know whose throne this is, whose royal crown,", "And whose the farr that marks the Shah’s renown."]}, {"id": "E6.14.57", "lines": ["Help me; defeat this faithless man. Too long", "Our exile shames us in the gazing throng.”"]}, {"id": "E6.14.58", "lines": ["When Caesar heard, his cheeks grew fenugreek-pale;", "Tears dewed that flower as he began to wail."]}, {"id": "E6.14.59", "lines": ["A bitter cry broke from his tongue and breast,", "As grief and pity robbed his heart of rest."]}, {"id": "E6.15.1", "lines": ["He read the letter; grief within him grew,", "The throne before his eyes turned lapis-blue."]}, {"id": "E6.15.2", "lines": ["Then Caesar spoke to Kharrad, wise of heart:", "“The wise know well the truth I now impart."]}, {"id": "E6.15.3", "lines": ["I hold Khosrow above my nearest kin,", "Above the living soul I bear within."]}, {"id": "E6.15.4", "lines": ["I have arms, legions, treasure; now declare", "What he requires; his needs shall be my care."]}, {"id": "E6.15.5", "lines": ["If he should ask my eyes, I would agree,", "Though more than all my wealth they mean to me.”"]}, {"id": "E6.15.6", "lines": ["Then Caesar called an old and practiced scribe,", "A man of skill and wisdom in his tribe."]}, {"id": "E6.15.7", "lines": ["He bade him write an answer rich with art,", "Like Paradise to gladden every heart,"]}, {"id": "E6.15.8", "lines": ["With counsels, promises, and royal lore,", "Of former times and present days and more."]}, {"id": "E6.15.9", "lines": ["When done, he chose a horseman free of fear,", "Ardent and wise, whose fluent speech was clear."]}, {"id": "E6.15.10", "lines": ["That learned warrior, weighing matters well,", "Was sent to where the exiled Shah would dwell:"]}, {"id": "E6.15.11", "lines": ["“Proclaim: ‘O noble Shah, who treads the way,", "My power shall sweep your bitter cares away!"]}, {"id": "E6.15.12", "lines": ["Both arms and gold are ready to your hand;", "No guest shall suffer sorrow in my land."]}, {"id": "E6.15.13", "lines": ["And had I lacked them, I would beg the aid", "Of every prince until the cost were paid,"]}, {"id": "E6.15.14", "lines": ["That you might turn to Iran satisfied,", "With all your hopes fulfilled, your wants supplied!"]}, {"id": "E6.15.15", "lines": ["Such are the turns of heaven: grief and care,", "Then sudden triumph in the place of snare."]}, {"id": "E6.15.16", "lines": ["Grieve not, but rest while fortune turns its wheel:", "I shall supply the legions and the steel!’”"]}, {"id": "E6.15.17", "lines": ["The envoy reached Prince Khosrow and conveyed", "The words of Caesar and the pledge he made."]}, {"id": "E6.16.1", "lines": ["Then Caesar cleared his hall, and sat and weighed", "The matter, with his counselor to aid."]}, {"id": "E6.16.2", "lines": ["He told the priest, “This man has sought our grace,", "And chosen us for refuge in this place."]}, {"id": "E6.16.3", "lines": ["What shall we do to help him win relief", "From shame imposed by that rebellious chief?”"]}, {"id": "E6.16.4", "lines": ["The counselor replied, “What now we need", "Is counsel from the shrewd in thought and deed."]}, {"id": "E6.16.5", "lines": ["Let some of our philosophers attend,", "Well-advised men who know where counsels end.”"]}, {"id": "E6.16.6", "lines": ["So mighty Caesar sent, and four men came,", "All Roman sages, men of noble name."]}, {"id": "E6.16.7", "lines": ["They said, “Since Iskandar departed life,", "The Iranians have worn us down with strife."]}, {"id": "E6.16.8", "lines": ["By frequent raids and war, by shedding blood,", "They wounded us and spilled a causeless flood."]}, {"id": "E6.16.9", "lines": ["Now holy God repays their evil ways;", "Sasanian Fortune dims beneath His gaze."]}, {"id": "E6.16.10", "lines": ["Give him no aid. If Khosrow now regains", "The royal crown and over Iran reigns,"]}, {"id": "E6.16.11", "lines": ["He soon will ask for tribute from this land,", "And trample Rum beneath his haughty hand."]}, {"id": "E6.16.12", "lines": ["Consider whether such a course is wise;", "Hold all their promises as empty lies.”"]}, {"id": "E6.16.13", "lines": ["When Caesar heard, his purpose turned about;", "The Shah’s first hope was dimmed by Caesar’s doubt."]}, {"id": "E6.16.14", "lines": ["He sent a swift horseman out to convey", "His note and what Rum’s sages had to say."]}, {"id": "E6.16.15", "lines": ["The envoy reached the place where Khosrow stayed,", "And spoke the words that Caesar had conveyed."]}, {"id": "E6.16.16", "lines": ["He gave the letter and explained at large;", "The Shah’s heart tightened under every charge."]}, {"id": "E6.16.17", "lines": ["His face turned wan with care; he then replied,", "With royal grief restrained by royal pride:"]}, {"id": "E6.16.18", "lines": ["“If we must lay to heart, from ages past,", "Each charge that our accusers choose to cast,"]}, {"id": "E6.16.19", "lines": ["Then all the hardships we have borne are vain,", "And all our weary toil has brought no gain."]}, {"id": "E6.16.20", "lines": ["Consider now our ancestors’ long fight:", "Was it unjust, or did they fight for right?"]}, {"id": "E6.16.21", "lines": ["Ask ancient men who keep such matters clear,", "And question Rum’s wise sages without fear."]}, {"id": "E6.16.22", "lines": ["So be it; we shall turn from Rum and go;", "May you not need Iran in time of woe."]}, {"id": "E6.16.23", "lines": ["Let them decide which bird began the fight:", "The crow or owl, and which one acted right."]}, {"id": "E6.16.24", "lines": ["Not all who rise in Rum can therefore stand", "Without the Maker’s aid and guiding hand."]}, {"id": "E6.16.25", "lines": ["My ancestors were men of high renown,", "And prospered in the world beneath their crown."]}, {"id": "E6.16.26", "lines": ["They bore no man’s rebellion or his pride,", "Nor foolishness, nor harshness would abide."]}, {"id": "E6.16.27", "lines": ["But what does all this matter, when my head", "Lies in the dragon’s maw, enclosed by dread?"]}, {"id": "E6.16.28", "lines": ["Greet Caesar; say, ‘The great will not devise", "Such empty words to lay before the wise."]}, {"id": "E6.16.29", "lines": ["Though good and ill pass onward in the end,", "I will not rest, nor shall my purpose bend,"]}, {"id": "E6.16.30", "lines": ["Until I free my robe from this foul stream,", "And wake from exile’s dark and shameful dream."]}, {"id": "E6.16.31", "lines": ["If Rum will not support me in my need,", "Envoys shall go where the Khan’s banners lead."]}, {"id": "E6.16.32", "lines": ["My words were vain, deprived of all their force;", "The running stream was darkened at its source."]}, {"id": "E6.16.33", "lines": ["When my returning messengers draw near,", "I shall depart and cease to linger here.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.16.34", "lines": ["He told Iran’s men, “Let no heart be torn;", "Obey my word, though Fortune turns in scorn."]}, {"id": "E6.16.35", "lines": ["For God the Conqueror will bring us through;", "Our part is to be brave, and kind, and true.”"]}, {"id": "E6.16.36", "lines": ["He wrote his answer, gave it to Tukhar,", "Who bore it to the Roman court afar."]}, {"id": "E6.17.1", "lines": ["When Caesar read the letter, thought returned,", "And in his heart deliberation burned."]}, {"id": "E6.17.2", "lines": ["He called his noble minister and said,", "“Unfold these problems, weigh them in your head."]}, {"id": "E6.17.3", "lines": ["Summon the great and brave; tell how things are,", "And learn what Fortune grants this exiled farr."]}, {"id": "E6.17.4", "lines": ["Will Khosrow triumph in this present strife,", "Or writhe beneath the turning wheel of life?"]}, {"id": "E6.17.5", "lines": ["If you shall say, ‘No triumph waits for him;", "No New Year comes; his Fortune will be dim,’"]}, {"id": "E6.17.6", "lines": ["Then let him seek the Khan in some far land,", "And find his cure at that great ruler’s hand."]}, {"id": "E6.17.7", "lines": ["But if he shall regain his father’s throne,", "Then let him not go helpless, on his own."]}, {"id": "E6.17.8", "lines": ["It would be well to send him legions, lest", "He keep a lasting hatred in his breast.”"]}, {"id": "E6.17.9", "lines": ["The prudent minister obeyed forthright,", "And summoned star-readers of ancient sight."]}, {"id": "E6.17.10", "lines": ["Through three long watches of the darkened night,", "They spoke with nobles, weighing Khosrow’s plight."]}, {"id": "E6.17.11", "lines": ["At last an astrologer began and said:", "“O Caesar, lord whose fame is far outspread,"]}, {"id": "E6.17.12", "lines": ["I have consulted Plato’s tables old,", "Where star-wise signs and destinies are told."]}, {"id": "E6.17.13", "lines": ["Before long Khosrow will regain the throne;", "The realm and royal Fortune are his own."]}, {"id": "E6.17.14", "lines": ["For thirty-eight full years his reign shall last;", "No darkening dust shall over him be cast.”"]}, {"id": "E6.17.15", "lines": ["Then Caesar told his minister, “Our doubt", "Concerning Khosrow now is driven out."]}, {"id": "E6.17.16", "lines": ["What shall we answer? What shall now be said?", "What salve upon this wound can we now spread?”"]}, {"id": "E6.17.17", "lines": ["The minister replied, “The Khan may lend", "His aid to Khosrow, prove a helpful friend."]}, {"id": "E6.17.18", "lines": ["If soldiers come from anywhere but Rum,", "He will avenge his wrongs and bring us doom."]}, {"id": "E6.17.19", "lines": ["Advise, O king; your wisdom counts for more,", "Your strength in all the stratagems of war.”"]}, {"id": "E6.17.20", "lines": ["Then Caesar said, “We must dispatch him aid;", "Let legions go; let no delay be made."]}, {"id": "E6.17.21", "lines": ["When all is weighed, the wiser course is shown:", "Spend wealth to guard the safety of the throne.”"]}, {"id": "E6.17.22", "lines": ["He wrote then, praise on praise in formal art:", "“With our wise priest we weighed each troubled part."]}, {"id": "E6.17.23", "lines": ["On good and ill we searched the matter through,", "And now resume the course we first held true."]}, {"id": "E6.17.24", "lines": ["Our counsels now are settled; I have laid", "The ancient hoards wide open for your aid."]}, {"id": "E6.17.25", "lines": ["In Constantinople few legions stand", "To keep secure the borders of our land."]}, {"id": "E6.17.26", "lines": ["We called for legions, summoned far and wide;", "As each arrives, we send it to your side."]}, {"id": "E6.17.27", "lines": ["This long delay, this guarded hesitation,", "Arose from grave and careful calculation."]}, {"id": "E6.17.28", "lines": ["Our sages spoke of former wars and wrong,", "Remembered through the years, both deep and long."]}, {"id": "E6.17.29", "lines": ["Under Shah Shapur, Ardeshir’s son,", "Our youths knew toil before that war was done."]}, {"id": "E6.17.30", "lines": ["Then ravage, slaughter, and assault were rife,", "And wrongful vengeance drove the chiefs to strife."]}, {"id": "E6.17.31", "lines": ["Both Hormizd and Qobad forgot the way", "Of God’s just law, and let their judgment stray."]}, {"id": "E6.17.32", "lines": ["Iranian arms laid thirty-nine towns low,", "And left but bramble, dust, and ruin’s woe."]}, {"id": "E6.17.33", "lines": ["The fields were drenched with blood of chiefs, and so", "Their wives and children captive had to go."]}, {"id": "E6.17.34", "lines": ["So marvel not that Roman hearts have weighed", "Revenge for grief upon their fathers laid."]}, {"id": "E6.17.35", "lines": ["To cause hurt violates our holy creed;", "May God preserve us from each evil deed."]}, {"id": "E6.17.36", "lines": ["No better thing than uprightness we know,", "With no deceit or knavery to show."]}, {"id": "E6.17.37", "lines": ["We called the wronged and spoke to them at length,", "Until old rancor lost its hold and strength."]}, {"id": "E6.17.38", "lines": ["Their evil passions now have passed away;", "The ancient poison finds its cure today."]}, {"id": "E6.17.39", "lines": ["We have ensured that none shall raise a cry", "Of past revenge or let old hatred fly."]}, {"id": "E6.17.40", "lines": ["They pledge their souls to carry out your will,", "And swear to keep that solemn promise still."]}, {"id": "E6.17.41", "lines": ["You too must pledge that none shall ever bear", "Ill will toward Rum or scorn the aid we share."]}, {"id": "E6.17.42", "lines": ["Say, ‘While I reign, I shall not scorn or slight", "The Roman labors witnessed in my sight."]}, {"id": "E6.17.43", "lines": ["I will not ask Rum’s tribute anymore,", "Nor sell these labors for a richer store."]}, {"id": "E6.17.44", "lines": ["Your Roman frontiers shall remain secure;", "No inroad from Iran shall they endure.’"]}, {"id": "E6.17.45", "lines": ["Go further in goodwill: make treaty now,", "And bind affinity by sacred vow."]}, {"id": "E6.17.46", "lines": ["Whatever comes, through peace or bitter war,", "Let us remain true brothers evermore."]}, {"id": "E6.17.47", "lines": ["When power shifts, and need has passed away,", "Let not revenge return another day."]}, {"id": "E6.17.48", "lines": ["Else men will speak once more of Tur and Salm,", "And ancient wrongs will shatter present calm."]}, {"id": "E6.17.49", "lines": ["I ask a binding pact fit for your seal,", "A sign that future years may read and feel."]}, {"id": "E6.17.50", "lines": ["From now on, we will never speak in rage", "Of Iraj’s blood or wrongs of ancient age."]}, {"id": "E6.17.51", "lines": ["Let Rum and Iran now be joined in peace;", "Let no hand break the bond or make it cease."]}, {"id": "E6.17.52", "lines": ["There is a daughter in our ladies’ bower,", "Fit for the greatest of the great in power."]}, {"id": "E6.17.53", "lines": ["Ask her according to our holy rite,", "And by our Faith make treaty firm and bright."]}, {"id": "E6.17.54", "lines": ["A child of Caesar’s line will not demand", "Revenge for Iraj from the Roman land."]}, {"id": "E6.17.55", "lines": ["The earth will rest; its war and strife will cease,", "And walk, the past put by, in righteous peace."]}, {"id": "E6.17.56", "lines": ["With wisdom’s eye, esteem this pact as just;", "For kinship gives alliance lasting trust."]}, {"id": "E6.17.57", "lines": ["Such is the precept that we have from God;", "It turns the sword from field and bloodied sod."]}, {"id": "E6.17.58", "lines": ["Long years have passed since Pirooz’s blood was shed,", "When Khoshnavaz stood firm and Pirooz fell dead."]}, {"id": "E6.17.59", "lines": ["But perish every treaty-breaking king,", "Whose faithless hand makes dust and ruin spring."]}, {"id": "E6.17.60", "lines": ["Our Prophet, the Messiah, said this word:", "‘When justice goes, the mind grows warped and blurred.’"]}, {"id": "E6.17.61", "lines": ["Khoshnavaz strove with every means to save", "Pirooz from ruin and an early grave."]}, {"id": "E6.17.62", "lines": ["But when Pirooz used force against his foe,", "In battle he saw nothing but black woe."]}, {"id": "E6.17.63", "lines": ["His troops and throne were scattered far and wide,", "Because he cast the path of right aside."]}, {"id": "E6.17.64", "lines": ["You are a youth and new to kingly care;", "Take Fortune’s fruit; keep faith in all you swear."]}, {"id": "E6.17.65", "lines": ["Do not make one who breaks a pact your friend;", "He is not worth a shroud when life shall end."]}, {"id": "E6.17.66", "lines": ["The crown and throne curse any king who breaks", "His pledge for any vengeance that he takes."]}, {"id": "E6.17.67", "lines": ["Read through this letter closely; then prepare", "Your answer with a king’s attentive care."]}, {"id": "E6.17.68", "lines": ["I would not have this known to any scribe;", "Write it yourself; let no one else transcribe."]}, {"id": "E6.17.69", "lines": ["When I shall read your answer, I shall find", "The purpose of your independent mind."]}, {"id": "E6.17.70", "lines": ["Then I shall send you arms, our legions, gold,", "To ease your care and strengthen what you hold."]}, {"id": "E6.17.71", "lines": ["As for the honored men who stand beside,", "And those against whom anger may abide,"]}, {"id": "E6.17.72", "lines": ["Put hatred firmly from your heart and mind;", "Leave their misdeeds to God, all-wise and kind."]}, {"id": "E6.17.73", "lines": ["Be neither harsh nor proud with friend or foe;", "Let measured justice govern high and low."]}, {"id": "E6.17.74", "lines": ["If you would have victorious Fortune last,", "And rule the world, your crown and throne held fast,"]}, {"id": "E6.17.75", "lines": ["Do not seize others’ goods to sate your greed;", "Keep bright the pathway of your soul and deed."]}, {"id": "E6.17.76", "lines": ["Be gracious; keep your people’s lives secure;", "Protect the working folk who toil while poor."]}, {"id": "E6.17.77", "lines": ["If you are generous and a friend in need,", "None will attempt your crown, nor foes succeed."]}, {"id": "E6.17.78", "lines": ["The watchful Shahs kept harm and foes at bay;", "Their God-given farr grew brighter day by day."]}, {"id": "E6.17.79", "lines": ["Great men seek kinship for themselves, or plan", "Such ties for their own children, clan with clan."]}, {"id": "E6.17.80", "lines": ["Now all of us advise you, loyal, true,", "And offer words of faithful counsel due.”"]}, {"id": "E6.17.81", "lines": ["He stamped the musk seal when the ink was dry,", "And blessed the envoy sent with this reply."]}, {"id": "E6.17.82", "lines": ["When word of Caesar’s wish for peace was plain", "To Khosrow Parviz, joy displaced his pain."]}, {"id": "E6.17.83", "lines": ["He told Iran, “The sun turns strange today;", "A letter from wise Caesar comes our way."]}, {"id": "E6.17.84", "lines": ["He seeks to end the ancient feud and strife", "That long has troubled Rum and Iran’s life.”"]}, {"id": "E6.17.85", "lines": ["They answered, “When this quarrel finds its end,", "No chief will seek the crown or war extend."]}, {"id": "E6.17.86", "lines": ["Nor shall the troops remain in want and pain;", "Such peace will bring them comfort in your reign."]}, {"id": "E6.17.87", "lines": ["Such peace, if won by you, will earn acclaim;", "On royal crowns they will inscribe your name.”"]}, {"id": "E6.18.1", "lines": ["When all approved the counsel and the plan,", "Khosrow dismissed the courtiers, to a man:"]}, {"id": "E6.18.2", "lines": ["He called for Chinese silk, for ink and quill,", "And took the pen himself with monarch’s skill;"]}, {"id": "E6.18.3", "lines": ["In ancient Pahlavi his hand portrayed", "The solemn covenant and vow he made:"]}, {"id": "E6.18.4", "lines": ["“Khosrow Parviz swears by the holy God,", "By circling sun and earth’s sustaining sod,"]}, {"id": "E6.18.5", "lines": ["That while I sit as Shah upon the throne,", "With Iran’s troops and treasures as my own,"]}, {"id": "E6.18.6", "lines": ["I shall demand no tribute from your hand,", "Nor lead an army to invade your land;"]}, {"id": "E6.18.7", "lines": ["The border fortresses that Rum has lost", "I shall restore, unmindful of the cost:"]}, {"id": "E6.18.8", "lines": ["I pledge our seals to ratify this claim,", "And ask your daughter, worthy of your name:"]}, {"id": "E6.18.9", "lines": ["Her mother, pure, belongs within your house;", "With your consent, I take your child as spouse."]}, {"id": "E6.18.10", "lines": ["Entrust her to Iranians at your court,", "Who dwell beneath your shield and strong support:"]}, {"id": "E6.18.11", "lines": ["Gostaham, Kharrad of Barzin’s honored name,", "Shapur and Andiyan, of noble fame."]}, {"id": "E6.18.12", "lines": ["Send her with legions when you grant that aid,", "That wise young bride, renowned and well-arrayed."]}, {"id": "E6.18.13", "lines": ["Through this affinity I join with you,", "As ancient royal houses used to do."]}, {"id": "E6.18.14", "lines": ["First Kioumars came forth in ancient light,", "Then Jamshid, hope and terror in men’s sight."]}, {"id": "E6.18.15", "lines": ["From Abtin and Fereydoon came that race", "Of noble kings who held that honored place."]}, {"id": "E6.18.16", "lines": ["From crowned old monarchs runs the sacred stream", "To Kay Qobad, whose virtues brightly gleam;"]}, {"id": "E6.18.17", "lines": ["Then Kay Kavus and Kay Khosrow upheld", "The royal right, whose justice wolves repelled;"]}, {"id": "E6.18.18", "lines": ["The line flowed on through Lohrasp’s righteous reign,", "And valiant Goshtasb followed in that train."]}, {"id": "E6.18.19", "lines": ["Then Esfandiyar, first among the bold,", "From whom came Bahman, famed in days of old."]}, {"id": "E6.18.20", "lines": ["Through Ardeshir Babakan, Fortune’s light", "Grew young again; his star was clear and bright."]}, {"id": "E6.18.21", "lines": ["Now Khosrow, son of Hormizd, heart and hand,", "Is one with Caesar over sea and land."]}, {"id": "E6.18.22", "lines": ["Among your distant fathers Salm is known;", "No falsehood mars the ancestry here shown."]}, {"id": "E6.18.23", "lines": ["We shall end every feud of former days,", "And join Iran and Rum in peaceful ways."]}, {"id": "E6.18.24", "lines": ["Roman and Iranian shall be one;", "Of ancient quarrels, there shall linger none."]}, {"id": "E6.18.25", "lines": ["I take from Caesar’s house his daughter fair,", "The choicest blossom that his gardens bear."]}, {"id": "E6.18.26", "lines": ["Whatever vice or virtue she may claim,", "I shall receive her to my crown and name."]}, {"id": "E6.18.27", "lines": ["God witnesses this letter I have made,", "And by my hand its every word is laid."]}, {"id": "E6.18.28", "lines": ["I set my seal to every word I write,", "According to our ways, our Faith, our rite."]}, {"id": "E6.18.29", "lines": ["For those who follow you upon the throne,", "This pledge shall stand, in writing clearly shown."]}, {"id": "E6.18.30", "lines": ["My soul and wisdom witness what I say;", "In great or small, I shall not turn away."]}, {"id": "E6.18.31", "lines": ["My heart, my star, and holy God attest", "That every word is true within my breast."]}, {"id": "E6.18.32", "lines": ["Now keep your promise; grant no more delay;", "Too long I linger here, day after day.”"]}, {"id": "E6.18.33", "lines": ["When all was said, he placed the scroll in trust", "With Khorshid, son of Kharrad, wise and just."]}, {"id": "E6.18.34", "lines": ["Swift as the wind, that chief arose and sprang", "Upon his chestnut horse; the hoofbeats rang."]}, {"id": "E6.18.35", "lines": ["He sped until he came to Caesar’s throne,", "And made the words of Khosrow fully known."]}, {"id": "E6.18.36", "lines": ["Then Caesar broke the band and read the scroll,", "The Shah’s exalted words before him whole."]}, {"id": "E6.18.37", "lines": ["He called on wise, well-spoken men to meet,", "And questioned each before his royal seat."]}, {"id": "E6.18.38", "lines": ["“What course is best? How shall this treaty stand", "Between Rum’s realm and Iran’s royal land?"]}, {"id": "E6.18.39", "lines": ["His letter leaves no pretext now,” he cried;", "“Rum and Iran stand firmly side by side.”"]}, {"id": "E6.18.40", "lines": ["The chiefs and sages rose and answered then:", "“We are your subjects, Caesar, all your men."]}, {"id": "E6.18.41", "lines": ["The counsel and command are all your own;", "Our lives and souls are bound to serve your throne.”"]}, {"id": "E6.18.42", "lines": ["Caesar approved those pious chiefs and wise,", "And praised the judgment shining in their eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.18.43", "lines": ["He waited till the lamp of day grew dim,", "And darkness spread across the heavens’ rim."]}, {"id": "E6.19.1", "lines": ["When circling Sol sank down and darkness towered,", "And stars awoke where nightly shadows flowered,"]}, {"id": "E6.19.2", "lines": ["Caesar bade skilled mechanicians devise", "A talisman to baffle watching eyes:"]}, {"id": "E6.19.3", "lines": ["They shaped a lifelike woman with such art", "That none could tell the counterfeit apart."]}, {"id": "E6.19.4", "lines": ["She sat in trailing raiment, robed and crowned,", "With handmaids near and servants ranged around."]}, {"id": "E6.19.5", "lines": ["Before, behind, on both her sides they stood,", "While she sat silent, fashioned fair and good."]}, {"id": "E6.19.6", "lines": ["That moon-faced form appeared as one who wept,", "And in her grief a queenly stillness kept."]}, {"id": "E6.19.7", "lines": ["At intervals, one hand would gently rise,", "And wipe the tears that gathered in her eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.19.8", "lines": ["All those who gazed upon it from afar", "Beheld a woman radiant as a star."]}, {"id": "E6.19.9", "lines": ["She seemed to weep for Christ; her cheeks were red,", "Her lashes, like spring clouds, their showers shed."]}, {"id": "E6.19.10", "lines": ["When those adepts had set it in its place,", "One went to Caesar, wonder in his face."]}, {"id": "E6.19.11", "lines": ["When Caesar heard the expert’s word, he rose,", "And hastened from the throne to view it close."]}, {"id": "E6.19.12", "lines": ["He saw the talisman and stood amazed", "At secret arts on which in awe he gazed."]}, {"id": "E6.19.13", "lines": ["He sent for Gostaham, the warrior famed,", "And richly paid the sorcerers acclaimed."]}, {"id": "E6.19.14", "lines": ["With money, robes, and gifts of every kind,", "He honored all whose craft had fooled the mind."]}, {"id": "E6.19.15", "lines": ["Then Caesar said to Gostaham, “Attend:", "I had a daughter, beauty without end."]}, {"id": "E6.19.16", "lines": ["She grew to marriageable years in grace;", "I found a kinsman of aspiring race."]}, {"id": "E6.19.17", "lines": ["I married her to him by Christian rite,", "And sent her to his palace out of sight."]}, {"id": "E6.19.18", "lines": ["I chose that youth; I chose in error then;", "Now heaven has taken him from mortal men."]}, {"id": "E6.19.19", "lines": ["His soul has gone to Heaven; grief has spread,", "And daylight now seems lapis-dark instead."]}, {"id": "E6.19.20", "lines": ["She will not heed my counsel or reply;", "Our youthful world grows aged while we sigh."]}, {"id": "E6.19.21", "lines": ["Go speak with her; use learning and your art,", "And ease with measured words her wounded heart."]}, {"id": "E6.19.22", "lines": ["Young Pahlevan, born of a noble stock,", "Perhaps your words her silence may unlock.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.23", "lines": ["He said, “I will; perhaps this love will cease,", "And I shall bring her troubled spirit peace.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.24", "lines": ["With cheerful heart and potent words in mind,", "The chief approached the image so refined."]}, {"id": "E6.19.25", "lines": ["As Gostaham drew near the royal seat,", "The guileful form bowed low, his glance to meet."]}, {"id": "E6.19.26", "lines": ["Illustrious Gostaham took his place,", "And spoke to that sad woman, full of grace."]}, {"id": "E6.19.27", "lines": ["“O daughter born of Caesar’s royal line,", "The wise do not lament Yazdan’s design."]}, {"id": "E6.19.28", "lines": ["The eagle in the sky, the lion’s pride,", "The fish beneath the waves where waters glide,"]}, {"id": "E6.19.29", "lines": ["Are none exempt from death’s supreme command;", "All creatures pass beneath the turning hand.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.30", "lines": ["But all his words were wind; the form lacked breath,", "No tongue to answer, silent as in death."]}, {"id": "E6.19.31", "lines": ["Only at times she raised her hand, to dry", "The tears that, by design, fell from her eye."]}, {"id": "E6.19.32", "lines": ["While Gostaham was lost in wondering thought,", "Caesar sent for him and the answer sought."]}, {"id": "E6.19.33", "lines": ["“How did you find my child, whose endless grief", "Has robbed my heart of comfort and relief?”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.34", "lines": ["He answered, “Long I counseled her; her tongue", "Stayed mute; no answer from her lips was wrung.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.35", "lines": ["Next day said Caesar, “Balvi, take the road", "With Andiyan and Shapur to her abode."]}, {"id": "E6.19.36", "lines": ["The nobly born may help to make me glad;", "Go speak with her whose grief has made me sad."]}, {"id": "E6.19.37", "lines": ["Speak to the mourner of the famous king;", "Perhaps your words some answer now may bring."]}, {"id": "E6.19.38", "lines": ["She heaps upon my head the fire of grief;", "Her tears deny my weary heart relief."]}, {"id": "E6.19.39", "lines": ["Help me by speaking with my mourning child;", "Let counsel make her wounded spirit mild."]}, {"id": "E6.19.40", "lines": ["I feel assured today she will reply,", "And I shall be released from grief thereby.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.41", "lines": ["Those three Iranian nobles came to plead;", "Each offered counsel she refused to heed."]}, {"id": "E6.19.42", "lines": ["That tongueless form remained in silence bound;", "No living answer in the hall was found."]}, {"id": "E6.19.43", "lines": ["The baffled three returned to Caesar’s hall,", "And said she had not answered them at all."]}, {"id": "E6.19.44", "lines": ["“We spoke and counseled as our wisdom could,", "But none of all our counsel did her good.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.45", "lines": ["Said Caesar, “Fortune wounds us when we grieve", "For one whose grief no counsel can relieve.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.46", "lines": ["Since those great nobles failed, he next addressed", "Kharrad, whose piercing thought surpassed the best."]}, {"id": "E6.19.47", "lines": ["Caesar then said, “From Ardeshir’s great line", "You come; perhaps her voice will give a sign.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.48", "lines": ["He sent him to the mourner from the court,", "With one attendant trusted for support."]}, {"id": "E6.19.49", "lines": ["Kharrad arrived and studied her array,", "Her crown, her face, and how she sat that day."]}, {"id": "E6.19.50", "lines": ["The guileful talisman bowed down to greet;", "Kharrad watched closely from her head to feet."]}, {"id": "E6.19.51", "lines": ["He marked the servants standing all around,", "Then spoke at length, but heard from her no sound."]}, {"id": "E6.19.52", "lines": ["That scion of the chiefs grew full of thought:", "“Can grief explain the signs my eye has caught?"]}, {"id": "E6.19.53", "lines": ["If grief had robbed her reason and her will,", "Why are her servants also silent still?"]}, {"id": "E6.19.54", "lines": ["If these are tears that truly fill her eyes,", "Her passion should abate beneath the skies."]}, {"id": "E6.19.55", "lines": ["She lets the drops fall always on one place;", "Her hand repeats its course before her face."]}, {"id": "E6.19.56", "lines": ["No other part has stirred, no foot has strayed;", "The same stiff gesture, endlessly replayed."]}, {"id": "E6.19.57", "lines": ["Were life within this form, its tears would stray,", "Or else its hand would move another way."]}, {"id": "E6.19.58", "lines": ["I see no living motion in her frame;", "The Roman sages forged this clever game.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.59", "lines": ["He came to Caesar smiling and at ease:", "“This moon-faced lady neither breathes nor sees."]}, {"id": "E6.19.60", "lines": ["She is a talisman the Romans made,", "Both Balvi and Gostaham it betrayed."]}, {"id": "E6.19.61", "lines": ["You mock us with the marvels you devise,", "And cast this spell of blindness on our eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.19.62", "lines": ["Our Shah will smile when he shall hear the tale,", "And show his silver teeth where tricks must fail.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.63", "lines": ["Said Caesar, “Live forever. You are fit", "To serve as minister where monarchs sit."]}, {"id": "E6.19.64", "lines": ["I have a wondrous chamber in my hall;", "No mind can grasp the marvels of it all."]}, {"id": "E6.19.65", "lines": ["When you behold it, you cannot decide", "If craft or heavenly power stands inside.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.66", "lines": ["Kharrad beheld a rider in the air,", "Suspended on his horse, a wonder rare."]}, {"id": "E6.19.67", "lines": ["He came to Caesar: “Such a wondrous stone", "Deserves a place upon a royal throne.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.68", "lines": ["Then Caesar asked, “Who made this talisman,", "And raised this lifeless semblance of a man?”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.69", "lines": ["He said, “The horseman is of iron made;", "The dome of lodestone holds him there displayed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.19.70", "lines": ["The lodestone draws the iron, and suspends", "The horse and rider where the dome ascends."]}, {"id": "E6.19.71", "lines": ["The Romans set him on an iron steed;", "The Indian books bring joy to those who read."]}, {"id": "E6.20.1", "lines": ["Then Caesar asked, “What heights do they attain", "Upon the path that Indian creeds maintain?"]}, {"id": "E6.20.2", "lines": ["Do they bow down to idols when they pray,", "Or does some sacred law direct their way?”"]}, {"id": "E6.20.3", "lines": ["Kharrad, the son of Barzin, answered soon:", "“In Hind they serve the ox and praise the moon."]}, {"id": "E6.20.4", "lines": ["They put no trust in God or turning sky,", "And pass beyond the circling sun on high."]}, {"id": "E6.20.5", "lines": ["They do not reckon men like us as wise,", "And hold their bodies worthless in their eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.20.6", "lines": ["Who kindles fire and steps within its flame", "Believes self-burning earns a righteous name."]}, {"id": "E6.20.7", "lines": ["They say a fire abides within the height,", "Set by Yazdan, great Lord of sovereign might."]}, {"id": "E6.20.8", "lines": ["The sage names this high fire the Ether’s sphere,", "And speaks of it in words that please the ear."]}, {"id": "E6.20.9", "lines": ["When earthly flame and ether-flame combine,", "They say man’s sin is purged by fire divine."]}, {"id": "E6.20.10", "lines": ["For this they kindle fire and feed its blaze,", "And deem the burning worthy of their praise."]}, {"id": "E6.20.11", "lines": ["Your own beliefs are not the truth you claim;", "Christ’s spirit is my witness to the same."]}, {"id": "E6.20.12", "lines": ["Mark what Lord Jesus, Mary’s son, once taught,", "When hidden truths were into daylight brought:"]}, {"id": "E6.20.13", "lines": ["‘If someone seizes your shirt, let anger go;", "Do not resist or strike him blow for blow."]}, {"id": "E6.20.14", "lines": ["If one should strike your face with bitter blows,", "Until your eyes grow dark beneath your woes,"]}, {"id": "E6.20.15", "lines": ["Do not grow angry; let no cheek turn pale;", "Speak no cold word, and let not patience fail."]}, {"id": "E6.20.16", "lines": ["If food is scarce, be with the little fed;", "If bedding fails, ask for no cloth to spread."]}, {"id": "E6.20.17", "lines": ["Return no harm for harm, no wrong for wrong;", "Pass through this darkness harmless, calm and strong.’"]}, {"id": "E6.20.18", "lines": ["But now desire is king above your thought;", "Through overweening greed your hearts are caught."]}, {"id": "E6.20.19", "lines": ["You raise your palaces to Saturn’s height;", "Your treasure keys proclaim your wealth and might."]}, {"id": "E6.20.20", "lines": ["Besides your wealth, you marshal mailed arrays,", "With Roman helms and armor bright with rays."]}, {"id": "E6.20.21", "lines": ["You send your legions out against the right,", "And leave your ease to draw your swords and fight."]}, {"id": "E6.20.22", "lines": ["The wilderness has turned to seas of blood;", "Christ did not guide you to that crimson flood."]}, {"id": "E6.20.23", "lines": ["He was a poor man, earning his own bread", "Through toil, by which his humble life was fed."]}, {"id": "E6.20.24", "lines": ["He lived on curds and milk and simple fare,", "With butter only for his further share."]}, {"id": "E6.20.25", "lines": ["A Jewish man seized him and saw him stand", "Without a friend or any helping hand."]}, {"id": "E6.20.26", "lines": ["He slew him, raised him on the gibbet-tree,", "And mocked his Faith for all the world to see."]}, {"id": "E6.20.27", "lines": ["Grown ardent, eloquent, and wise in youth,", "He sought deep knowledge and proclaimed the truth."]}, {"id": "E6.20.28", "lines": ["In youth his wit had brought him learning’s light;", "In time he gained a prophet’s rank and right."]}, {"id": "E6.20.29", "lines": ["You say he was God’s son and smiling died,", "Upon the gibbet, mocked and crucified."]}, {"id": "E6.20.30", "lines": ["At such a claim the sage will smile and see", "The flaw that lies within this mystery."]}, {"id": "E6.20.31", "lines": ["God needs no wife or child; within His sight", "All hidden things lie open, clear and bright."]}, {"id": "E6.20.32", "lines": ["Why turn from great Kioumars’ ancient way,", "Or Tahmuras’ wisdom from an elder day?"]}, {"id": "E6.20.33", "lines": ["They taught that the Creator rules alone,", "And righteous worship makes His glory known!"]}, {"id": "E6.20.34", "lines": ["The pious priest recites his holy prayer,", "And holds the barsom twigs with reverent care;"]}, {"id": "E6.20.35", "lines": ["He tastes no water, though with thirst he bleed,", "Subduing nature to his sacred creed;"]}, {"id": "E6.20.36", "lines": ["He trusts in God upon the battle day,", "Nor asks cold water in the deadly fray."]}, {"id": "E6.20.37", "lines": ["He turns in worship to the sacred fire,", "Above earth, air, and water rising higher."]}, {"id": "E6.20.38", "lines": ["Our Shahs barter no sacred faith for pay;", "They serve Yazdan, whom earth and heavens obey;"]}, {"id": "E6.20.39", "lines": ["They prize not hoards of gems or golden store,", "Seeking through justice fame forevermore;"]}, {"id": "E6.20.40", "lines": ["Then comes the warrior whose dust shall rise", "To veil the sun in battle-darkened skies:"]}, {"id": "E6.20.41", "lines": ["He shields the frontiers with his sword and spear,", "And holds the King of Kings, in vigil, dear."]}, {"id": "E6.20.42", "lines": ["He guards the land from foes with lawful might;", "The wise Shah asks for this, and deems it right."]}, {"id": "E6.20.43", "lines": ["For him who seeks in Faith what is not true,", "May curses fall upon him as his due.”"]}, {"id": "E6.20.44", "lines": ["When Caesar heard, he praised the speech as wise;", "Its counsel brought new light before his eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.20.45", "lines": ["He said, “The Maker placed you high among", "The great; all men must heed your learned tongue."]}, {"id": "E6.20.46", "lines": ["You hold the key to secrets long concealed;", "Through you their hidden meaning stands revealed."]}, {"id": "E6.20.47", "lines": ["A king with such a servant may look down", "From heights above the moon’s resplendent crown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.20.48", "lines": ["He gave him silver, gold, a crown, and said,", "“Through you may Iran thrive in years ahead!”"]}, {"id": "E6.21.1", "lines": ["When Caesar learned the legions gathered near,", "And horsemen’s dust made heaven’s vault unclear,"]}, {"id": "E6.21.2", "lines": ["Full seventy thousand chosen Roman spears", "He picked for war, seasoned through veteran years;"]}, {"id": "E6.21.3", "lines": ["He ordered gold and chargers and display,", "Refusing longer to endure delay."]}, {"id": "E6.21.4", "lines": ["He had a daughter, Maryam by name,", "Wise, grave, resolved, and high in royal fame."]}, {"id": "E6.21.5", "lines": ["He gave her to the Shah by sacred rite,", "And prayed that God would bless their union bright."]}, {"id": "E6.21.6", "lines": ["Gostaham took her in the royal way,", "And gave her to the Shah in due array."]}, {"id": "E6.21.7", "lines": ["He brought such bridal wealth, so great a load,", "That swift pack-beasts grew slow upon the road."]}, {"id": "E6.21.8", "lines": ["Gold ornaments and jewels fit to wear,", "Gemmed raiment, carpets costly, rich, and rare,"]}, {"id": "E6.21.9", "lines": ["Roman brocade with golden patterns bright,", "On silk embroidered, wondrous to the sight,"]}, {"id": "E6.21.10", "lines": ["Torques, bracelets, earrings, all of gold refined,", "Three diadems with jewels intertwined."]}, {"id": "E6.21.11", "lines": ["Four gilded litters, too, with curtained screens", "Sewn thick with royal jewels, fit for queens."]}, {"id": "E6.21.12", "lines": ["And forty more of ebony were made,", "With jewel-bright designs across them laid."]}, {"id": "E6.21.13", "lines": ["Three hundred moon-faced maids came in her train,", "All fragrant, graceful, lovely, free from stain."]}, {"id": "E6.21.14", "lines": ["Five hundred slaves, alert, came in array,", "With gold and silver harness on display."]}, {"id": "E6.21.15", "lines": ["And forty Roman eunuchs, fair of face,", "Illustrious men, moved on with courtly grace."]}, {"id": "E6.21.16", "lines": ["Four philosophers of Rum were sent,", "Wise, learned men in counsel eloquent."]}, {"id": "E6.21.17", "lines": ["He gave them their instructions, then apart", "Addressed fair Maryam with a father’s heart."]}, {"id": "E6.21.18", "lines": ["He spoke of rest, desire, and daily need,", "Of gifts and food, and seemliness in deed."]}, {"id": "E6.21.19", "lines": ["The bridal wealth was counted; its vast store", "Was thrice a hundred million, even more."]}, {"id": "E6.21.20", "lines": ["To every envoy present in his court", "He gave rich robes and steeds of noble sort."]}, {"id": "E6.21.21", "lines": ["He gave them jeweled crowns and gold past count,", "And robes, and each a noble steed to mount."]}, {"id": "E6.21.22", "lines": ["He bade them write, “O servants, yours the right", "To raise your heads up to the moon’s own height."]}, {"id": "E6.21.23", "lines": ["No man more worthy, high or low in birth,", "Than Gostaham shall rise upon this earth."]}, {"id": "E6.21.24", "lines": ["What man like Shapur speaks with judgment clear,", "And mediates the counsels that we hear?"]}, {"id": "E6.21.25", "lines": ["Balvi keeps secrets; nothing men can pay", "Will make him sell the noble-born away."]}, {"id": "E6.21.26", "lines": ["And none who lives through many years shall know", "A man like Kharrad, wise in joy and woe."]}, {"id": "E6.21.27", "lines": ["God taught him mysteries no eye could find,", "And made his counsel sunlight to the mind."]}, {"id": "E6.21.28", "lines": ["Faultless as sunlight, all his deeds are bright;", "His works are godly, guided by the right.”"]}, {"id": "E6.21.29", "lines": ["The star-reader was summoned to advise", "When they should march beneath propitious skies."]}, {"id": "E6.21.30", "lines": ["On Bahram day great Caesar led the way,", "With happy omens blessing their array."]}, {"id": "E6.21.31", "lines": ["Three stages Caesar rode beside the train;", "The fourth, he halted there, and drew his rein."]}, {"id": "E6.21.32", "lines": ["He bade fair Maryam come and spoke at length,", "With tender counsel, fatherly in strength:"]}, {"id": "E6.21.33", "lines": ["“Keep, dearest child, your girdle round your waist", "Till you reach Iran, guarded, pure, and chaste."]}, {"id": "E6.21.34", "lines": ["Let Khosrow never see your body bare,", "Lest some new matter take you unaware.”"]}, {"id": "E6.21.35", "lines": ["He said farewell with tenderness and care:", "“May heaven shield you safely everywhere.”"]}, {"id": "E6.21.36", "lines": ["Caesar had one brave brother, strong and wise,", "Niyatus, honored under Roman skies."]}, {"id": "E6.21.37", "lines": ["He said, “Fair Maryam is your blood and race;", "In Faith and kinship, guard her life and grace."]}, {"id": "E6.21.38", "lines": ["I charge you with these legions and this wealth,", "With her fair safety, honor, peace, and health.”"]}, {"id": "E6.21.39", "lines": ["Niyatus took the charge without delay;", "Then Caesar turned in tears and rode away."]}, {"id": "E6.21.40", "lines": ["The legions marched along the road ahead;", "With gorz and sword, Niyatus rode and led."]}, {"id": "E6.21.41", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard the legions had arrived,", "He led his armed men out, his hopes revived."]}, {"id": "E6.21.42", "lines": ["When standards rose through dust across the plain,", "And riders clad in jowshans came in train,"]}, {"id": "E6.21.43", "lines": ["The legions came like clouds in iron bright,", "In helm and cuirass, terrible to sight."]}, {"id": "E6.21.44", "lines": ["His spirit bloomed like roses in the spring;", "New royal pride revived the warrior-king:"]}, {"id": "E6.21.45", "lines": ["He spurred to meet Niyatus on the plain,", "Embracing him before the Roman train,"]}, {"id": "E6.21.46", "lines": ["And poured forth praises on great Caesar’s name,", "Who sent such legions to redeem his fame!"]}, {"id": "E6.21.47", "lines": ["Then joyful Khosrow, to the bride’s abode,", "Rode in, and there to Maryam’s presence strode."]}, {"id": "E6.21.48", "lines": ["He greeted her, and, kissing her soft hand,", "Rejoiced to see the bride from Caesar’s land."]}, {"id": "E6.21.49", "lines": ["He bore his Moon back to his royal tent,", "And there three days in talk with her he spent."]}, {"id": "E6.21.50", "lines": ["Upon the fourth, when Sol began to shine,", "They decked a chosen lodging, fair and fine."]}, {"id": "E6.21.51", "lines": ["He summoned Sarges, Kut, Niyatus all,", "With great and lesser chiefs into the hall."]}, {"id": "E6.21.52", "lines": ["He asked, “Which chiefs among these men today", "Can wield the gorz and sword in war’s array?”"]}, {"id": "E6.21.53", "lines": ["Then Niyatus chose seventy chiefs of might,", "Each set above a thousand men in fight."]}, {"id": "E6.21.54", "lines": ["Khosrow Parviz surveyed that chosen throng,", "The noble horsemen, keen for war, and strong."]}, {"id": "E6.21.55", "lines": ["He praised the Maker of the earth and sky,", "Who turns both time and heaven wheeling high."]}, {"id": "E6.21.56", "lines": ["He praised Niyatus and the troops he led,", "And Caesar and his realm, so widely spread."]}, {"id": "E6.21.57", "lines": ["Then said, “If mighty God shall aid my fight,", "The world shall see the measure of my might."]}, {"id": "E6.21.58", "lines": ["I shall make earth a sea where jewels gleam,", "My gifts shall flow among you like a stream."]}, {"id": "E6.21.59", "lines": ["You will rejoice that you have joined my cause,", "Your tongues, once silent, now shall voice applause."]}, {"id": "E6.21.60", "lines": ["Let thoughts of friends alone within us flower,", "With heaven our friend, and noble love our bower.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.1", "lines": ["Upon the seventh day, the Shah arrayed", "His troops, with all their royal might displayed."]}, {"id": "E6.22.2", "lines": ["It seemed the turning sky had taken form;", "The court resounded with the tymbal-storm."]}, {"id": "E6.22.3", "lines": ["The air grew black with dust the horsemen made,", "As ranks of warriors gathered in parade."]}, {"id": "E6.22.4", "lines": ["He chose a freeborn force and set his face", "Toward Azar Abadagan’s wide embrace."]}, {"id": "E6.22.5", "lines": ["Two weeks passed by, while at the Shah’s command", "Fresh troops arrived in camp, a mighty band."]}, {"id": "E6.22.6", "lines": ["Upon Duk’s plain his royal tent was spread,", "Amid the mighty force that he had led."]}, {"id": "E6.22.7", "lines": ["He gave the legions to Niyatus’ hand:", "“All troops are yours to lead across the land.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.8", "lines": ["Then with some courageous horsemen he rode;", "His swift steed carried him along the road."]}, {"id": "E6.22.9", "lines": ["He took the road toward Khanjast that day,", "And rode with gladdened heart along the way."]}, {"id": "E6.22.10", "lines": ["There Mawsil camped, a lord among the great,", "Armenia’s chief, a man of high estate."]}, {"id": "E6.22.11", "lines": ["Bandvi, the Shah’s own uncle, shared his train,", "A kinsman trusted, loyal to his reign."]}, {"id": "E6.22.12", "lines": ["When these two heard that Khosrow stirred again,", "They left their camp and rode to meet him then."]}, {"id": "E6.22.13", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw two horsemen on the way,", "He turned to Gostaham and had his say:"]}, {"id": "E6.22.14", "lines": ["“O warrior, two men hurry through the field;", "Ride out; see who they are, what haste may yield.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.15", "lines": ["He answered, “King, unless my eyes mislead,", "My brother Bandvi rides the piebald steed."]}, {"id": "E6.22.16", "lines": ["That other rider is not one we know;", "Yet both come swiftly where the dust clouds blow.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.17", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “What hope of him remains?", "If still alive, he must be held in chains."]}, {"id": "E6.22.18", "lines": ["If dead, his body on the gibbet sways,", "Within the public square, before men’s gaze.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.19", "lines": ["Said Gostaham, “Regard him well, O king;", "That is your uncle whom the roads now bring."]}, {"id": "E6.22.20", "lines": ["If I am wrong, let death fall over me;", "No other man could wear the face I see.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.21", "lines": ["The two dismounted in that shaded place,", "Approached, and bowed before his farr-bright face."]}, {"id": "E6.22.22", "lines": ["They praised him deeply, made obeisance low;", "The Shah gave Bandvi welcome after woe."]}, {"id": "E6.22.23", "lines": ["“I thought,” he told him, “earth had claimed your breath,", "And you lay buried in the dust of death.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.24", "lines": ["Bandvi recounted all his sore dismay,", "And how the Shah’s own robe led foes astray."]}, {"id": "E6.22.25", "lines": ["He told how Bahram granted him his grace,", "And how he fled from that most deadly place."]}, {"id": "E6.22.26", "lines": ["The Shah wept greatly as the tale was told,", "Then asked, “Who is this man that I behold?”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.27", "lines": ["Bandvi replied, “O sun-faced Shah, be kind:", "Does Mawsil find no welcome in your mind?"]}, {"id": "E6.22.28", "lines": ["Since you left Iran for the Roman land,", "He knew no settled peace on any hand."]}, {"id": "E6.22.29", "lines": ["His palace was the tent beneath the sky;", "He waited for your face with watchful eye."]}, {"id": "E6.22.30", "lines": ["He has great troops, with ample arms supplied,", "And gold and treasure he has set aside.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.31", "lines": ["Then Khosrow said to Mawsil, “Can your toil", "Lie hidden, and your service earn no spoil?"]}, {"id": "E6.22.32", "lines": ["We shall repay your days with joy and fame,", "And set among the greatest your good name.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.33", "lines": ["Mawsil replied, “Give me new life, O king;", "Let me approach your stirrup now and bring"]}, {"id": "E6.22.34", "lines": ["My homage to your farr.” Khosrow replied,", "“Your toil and words shall swell your treasure’s tide."]}, {"id": "E6.22.35", "lines": ["I shall fulfill your wish and raise your name", "Above the great in dignity and fame.”"]}, {"id": "E6.22.36", "lines": ["He drew one foot out; Mawsil, full of awe,", "Kissed foot and stirrup of the Shah he saw."]}, {"id": "E6.22.37", "lines": ["When that devoted liege was satisfied,", "The Shah bade him remount and onward ride."]}, {"id": "E6.22.38", "lines": ["Across the barren plain the monarch rode", "To Azargashasp’s shrine, the Fire’s abode."]}, {"id": "E6.22.39", "lines": ["With murmured prayer and aching heart he came", "Where burned the fire-temple’s sacred flame."]}, {"id": "E6.22.40", "lines": ["A priest approached, the Zand-Avesta borne;", "The pious Shah stood humbled and careworn."]}, {"id": "E6.22.41", "lines": ["He loosed the golden belt upon his waist,", "And jewels on the sacred Fire he placed."]}, {"id": "E6.22.42", "lines": ["He cried beyond the priest in grief profound:", "“Just Judge, bring all my foes’ heads to the ground."]}, {"id": "E6.22.43", "lines": ["You know I plead with justice and intend", "To walk the path of good until the end."]}, {"id": "E6.22.44", "lines": ["Do not approve the wrong the wicked do.”", "He bound his golden belt when he was through."]}, {"id": "E6.22.45", "lines": ["He turned to Duk, grief lodged within his breast,", "And reached his camp when night had quenched the west."]}, {"id": "E6.22.46", "lines": ["He sent alert and seasoned scouts to see", "How matters stood, and what the news might be."]}, {"id": "E6.22.47", "lines": ["When Nimruz heard the Shah was near their ground,", "The tabiras on elephants were bound."]}, {"id": "E6.22.48", "lines": ["The earth seemed like the Nile; their hearts grew strong;", "They came to aid the Shah, a mighty throng."]}, {"id": "E6.23.1", "lines": ["When Bahram heard that Khosrow’s royal light", "Had shone anew, with kingly Fortune bright,"]}, {"id": "E6.23.2", "lines": ["He fixed his eyes upon a trusted man,", "A soldier chosen for his secret plan."]}, {"id": "E6.23.3", "lines": ["Dara Panah, wise, famed, and full of art,", "Had served Bahram with faith and loyal heart."]}, {"id": "E6.23.4", "lines": ["He called a noted scribe and gave command", "To write grave letters through Iranian land."]}, {"id": "E6.23.5", "lines": ["He bade them write to men of warlike fame:", "Gostaham and Bandvi, both chiefs of name."]}, {"id": "E6.23.6", "lines": ["To Gordvi, warrior of renowned degree,", "Whose fame was known wherever chiefs could be."]}, {"id": "E6.23.7", "lines": ["To brave Shapur and Andiyan beside,", "And all in whom true greatness could abide."]}, {"id": "E6.23.8", "lines": ["“I seek the Maker’s blessing evermore,", "And in my secret heart His grace implore."]}, {"id": "E6.23.9", "lines": ["Awake; let evil lead you not astray;", "Let wisdom guide the counsels of the day."]}, {"id": "E6.23.10", "lines": ["Since first the Sasanian line ascended,", "Its kings in pride and greed have all contended."]}, {"id": "E6.23.11", "lines": ["Ardeshir, sprung from Babak, first arose,", "And filled the world with conflict and with woes."]}, {"id": "E6.23.12", "lines": ["His scimitar cast shadow on his age,", "And dazed the great with warfare, wrath, and rage."]}, {"id": "E6.23.13", "lines": ["First call to mind Ardavan and the brave,", "Whose names have vanished with them in the grave."]}, {"id": "E6.23.14", "lines": ["Their absence is the throne’s enduring grief;", "Gone are their names, and gone each noble chief."]}, {"id": "E6.23.15", "lines": ["You heard what Qobad, with his wicked will,", "Brought on Sofrye, and how he served him ill."]}, {"id": "E6.23.16", "lines": ["He freed Qobad from fetters, grief, and woe;", "Qobad repaid him as a mortal foe."]}, {"id": "E6.23.17", "lines": ["When treacherous Qobad at last grew strong,", "He cast all virtue off and turned to wrong."]}, {"id": "E6.23.18", "lines": ["He slew that famed and faithful Pahlevan,", "And filled with grief the nobles of Iran."]}, {"id": "E6.23.19", "lines": ["Who spurns his child and kin for passion’s sake", "Will keep no faith with strangers; trust will break."]}, {"id": "E6.23.20", "lines": ["None seeks ivory in ebony’s grain,", "Nor rubies in red willow; both are vain."]}, {"id": "E6.23.21", "lines": ["Do not put trust in the Sasanian throne;", "Their stock can yield no ruby of its own."]}, {"id": "E6.23.22", "lines": ["When this my letter finds you in your place,", "May holy Ormozd’s farr light heart and face."]}, {"id": "E6.23.23", "lines": ["You hold a splendid station in my sight;", "To me your worth is manifest and bright."]}, {"id": "E6.23.24", "lines": ["The breast and sleeves are one within the shirt;", "So are our hearts in Fortune, joy, and hurt."]}, {"id": "E6.23.25", "lines": ["Come all to me; by darkness or by day,", "Rest here as one; my gloom will pass away."]}, {"id": "E6.23.26", "lines": ["I do not fear the Romans or their king;", "Their throne beneath my feet I mean to bring.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.27", "lines": ["They sealed the letters with Bahram’s own seal;", "He dressed for trade, his purpose to conceal."]}, {"id": "E6.23.28", "lines": ["In haste he came where Khosrow held his court,", "With caravan and wares of every sort."]}, {"id": "E6.23.29", "lines": ["He carried letters, gifts, and presents too,", "All veiled beneath a trader’s outward view."]}, {"id": "E6.23.30", "lines": ["He marked that grandeur and that mighty train,", "And saw no passage through the crowded plain."]}, {"id": "E6.23.31", "lines": ["“Who,” thought he, “seeing such a king stand tall,", "Would seek Bahram’s protection now at all?"]}, {"id": "E6.23.32", "lines": ["I am from Iran, free from foe and care;", "Full thirty camel-loads of goods I bear."]}, {"id": "E6.23.33", "lines": ["Why bring destruction on myself, when I", "See from the pit such majesty rise high?"]}, {"id": "E6.23.34", "lines": ["These letters to the Shah I shall convey,", "A novel gift, and tell him what they say.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.35", "lines": ["Perturbed, he came before the Shah with all", "The hostile gifts and letters from that hall."]}, {"id": "E6.23.36", "lines": ["He brought the silver, gifts, and letters sealed,", "And to the Shah their messages revealed."]}, {"id": "E6.23.37", "lines": ["The Shah read all the letters brought that day,", "Then bade him on a golden seat to stay."]}, {"id": "E6.23.38", "lines": ["He said, “O man of wisdom, you should know", "That in my eyes Bahram stands mean and low."]}, {"id": "E6.23.39", "lines": ["You have attained your end; seek no acclaim,", "Nor strive in this affair for further fame.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.40", "lines": ["He called a scribe; false letters were prepared,", "As though the chiefs themselves their minds declared:"]}, {"id": "E6.23.41", "lines": ["“Your letters reached us; we have weighed each word,", "We gave your envoy place, his message heard."]}, {"id": "E6.23.42", "lines": ["In outward speech we fight for Khosrow’s claim,", "But in our hearts you are new spring and flame."]}, {"id": "E6.23.43", "lines": ["When you have led your army to the field,", "Who then will count the Romans or their shield?"]}, {"id": "E6.23.44", "lines": ["We will draw scimitars and strike them low,", "And make their blood upon the battlefield flow."]}, {"id": "E6.23.45", "lines": ["When Khosrow sees your troops and hears your name,", "He will behold your prowess and your fame."]}, {"id": "E6.23.46", "lines": ["His heart will quail upon the battle-day,", "And like a fox he will be chased away.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.47", "lines": ["He sealed the letters, gave them to that chief,", "And spoke of toil that would bring sweet relief:"]}, {"id": "E6.23.48", "lines": ["“For this your conduct, sage, you shall have fruit;", "Your toil shall flower from a faithful root.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.49", "lines": ["He gave him jewels, gems, and shining gold,", "Rewards whose worth could scarcely all be told."]}, {"id": "E6.23.50", "lines": ["“Take these replies to Chubin; let him hear", "All you have heard,” he said, “and make it clear."]}, {"id": "E6.23.51", "lines": ["You shall lack nothing when my Fortune grows,", "And when my crown again in splendor shows.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.52", "lines": ["Dara Panah departed from the court,", "Swift as the wind, to carry his report."]}, {"id": "E6.23.53", "lines": ["The youth fulfilled his charge without delay;", "He gave the letters, told what he must say."]}, {"id": "E6.23.54", "lines": ["When that ambitious chief had read the lines,", "Greed rose and drove out wisdom’s sound designs."]}, {"id": "E6.23.55", "lines": ["Deceived by their replies, he raised his band;", "Amazement spread throughout Iran’s broad land."]}, {"id": "E6.23.56", "lines": ["The elders saw his blindness and drew near,", "And spoke to him with words of warning clear:"]}, {"id": "E6.23.57", "lines": ["“Do not depart; this day, so fresh and bright,", "Will soon grow old if you march out to fight."]}, {"id": "E6.23.58", "lines": ["If Khosrow comes, then nothing meets our sight", "But gorz and scimitar in vengeful might."]}, {"id": "E6.23.59", "lines": ["Do not break faith for royal pomp and pride;", "Time blinds you, then becomes your reckless guide.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.60", "lines": ["Their words were vain; he called his troops to horse,", "Packed baggage; tabiras proclaimed the course."]}, {"id": "E6.23.61", "lines": ["That freeborn force of Iran onward came", "To Azar Abadagan, bright with fame."]}, {"id": "E6.23.62", "lines": ["The armies closed; so dense their masses grew,", "No ant or fly could thread a passage through."]}, {"id": "E6.23.63", "lines": ["Bahram said, “I would scan their full array,", "And learn who rides for Rum in war’s display.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.64", "lines": ["The chiefs, with Yalan-sina, took their way;", "And, with Izad Gashasp, rode to survey."]}, {"id": "E6.23.65", "lines": ["They viewed the troops, then turned back from the line,", "And told their chief, “Their countless ranks combine"]}, {"id": "E6.23.66", "lines": ["In numbers past our reckoning; their array", "Exceeds what all our thoughts could weigh today.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.67", "lines": ["The Roman horsemen hastened to the king,", "Eager for war and all that it might bring."]}, {"id": "E6.23.68", "lines": ["They girded up their loins and cried, “We yearn", "To fight Iran and make their forces turn.”"]}, {"id": "E6.23.69", "lines": ["The Shah agreed to grant the Roman plea,", "And gave consent that battle there should be."]}, {"id": "E6.24.1", "lines": ["When Sol rose over shadowed hills, the cry", "Of war from both great forces rose on high."]}, {"id": "E6.24.2", "lines": ["The earth appeared a vast revolving wheel,", "While swords eclipsed the sun with blades of steel."]}, {"id": "E6.24.3", "lines": ["The troops drew up to left and right in might;", "Earth seemed an iron mountain to the sight."]}, {"id": "E6.24.4", "lines": ["At neighing steeds and all the battle-cries,", "The desert sought a path toward mountain skies."]}, {"id": "E6.24.5", "lines": ["When brave Bahram Chubin then saw the field,", "He drew his glaive and would not fear or yield."]}, {"id": "E6.24.6", "lines": ["Though raging lions’ hearts were split in two,", "His own stayed firm in all he meant to do."]}, {"id": "E6.24.7", "lines": ["He went himself to view the left and right,", "To Yalan-sina spoke before the fight:"]}, {"id": "E6.24.8", "lines": ["“Take center; lead the troops into the fray;", "I am the fighter of our force today."]}, {"id": "E6.24.9", "lines": ["Though all should flee, I shall not run away;", "When others turn, I am the one to stay.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.10", "lines": ["Khosrow surveyed the battlefield around,", "And saw the world by armies blackened, bound."]}, {"id": "E6.24.11", "lines": ["The bright sun’s face was darkened, grim and raw;", "The clouds seemed raining swords on all he saw."]}, {"id": "E6.24.12", "lines": ["Then Niyatus, Bandvi, Gostaham came,", "And joined the Shah above the battle-flame."]}, {"id": "E6.24.13", "lines": ["Upon Mount Duk those leaders took their stand,", "And watched the troops who served at their command."]}, {"id": "E6.24.14", "lines": ["The Shah surveyed his troops on left and right,", "The center and the wings prepared to fight."]}, {"id": "E6.24.15", "lines": ["The tymbals sounded out from either side;", "The eager warriors moved in battle-pride."]}, {"id": "E6.24.16", "lines": ["The earth appeared to be an iron hill,", "And heaven faced the earth with hostile will."]}, {"id": "E6.24.17", "lines": ["He saw the battle woven in his sight:", "Earth warp, and heaven weft, throughout the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.24.18", "lines": ["He prayed in Pahlavi: “O God most pure,", "O higher than the high, whose truths endure,"]}, {"id": "E6.24.19", "lines": ["O holy Judge, who but Yourself can know", "Which side today exulting back shall go?"]}, {"id": "E6.24.20", "lines": ["The spear of one whose Fortune fails in need", "Is no more strong than thorn or withered weed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.21", "lines": ["Khosrow was full of anguish at the sight;", "The world seemed one great thicket in the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.24.22", "lines": ["Then from the troops came Kut in jowshan dressed,", "Dark as a hill, hard, hale, with iron breast."]}, {"id": "E6.24.23", "lines": ["He broke from center, climbed the height, and cried:", "“Illustrious king, show me that slave in pride."]}, {"id": "E6.24.24", "lines": ["Point out the doer of the Div’s dark deed,", "The man before whom you once fled at speed."]}, {"id": "E6.24.25", "lines": ["You fought and fled while he stood crowned with fame;", "Now I shall teach him battle’s proper game."]}, {"id": "E6.24.26", "lines": ["Look through the army, left and right, and show", "Where stands that chief among the ranks below."]}, {"id": "E6.24.27", "lines": ["Let him behold how men of courage fight,", "And learn their mettle in the clash of might.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.28", "lines": ["The Shah, remembering his former flight,", "Was vexed at heart beneath the Roman’s slight."]}, {"id": "E6.24.29", "lines": ["Kut’s taunt, “You fled a slave and cast aside", "Your arms,” had stung the Shah’s offended pride."]}, {"id": "E6.24.30", "lines": ["He gave no answer, stunned by bitter pain,", "Until he spoke with anger held in rein:"]}, {"id": "E6.24.31", "lines": ["“Approach that rider on the piebald steed;", "He will attack when he perceives your speed."]}, {"id": "E6.24.32", "lines": ["Then do not flee, lest shame should make you bite", "Your lips before the army’s watching sight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.33", "lines": ["Kut sped back like the wind with spear in hand,", "A maddened elephant, he stormed the land."]}, {"id": "E6.24.34", "lines": ["Then Yalan-sina warned, his meaning clear:", "“Brave rider, guard yourself; the Div draws near."]}, {"id": "E6.24.35", "lines": ["A Div with lance in hand has come this way,", "His kamand at the saddle, primed for fray.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.36", "lines": ["Bahram drew sword, with fury in his mind,", "Proclaimed his name, and left all fear behind."]}, {"id": "E6.24.37", "lines": ["The Shah rose on the mountain’s lofty brow,", "Wet-eyed and angry, watching what came now."]}, {"id": "E6.24.38", "lines": ["The Roman charged with lance; Bahram held fast,", "And let the thrusting spear go harmless past."]}, {"id": "E6.24.39", "lines": ["Behind his shield, Bahram struck neck and head,", "And split him to the breast; the steel ran red."]}, {"id": "E6.24.40", "lines": ["The sword-clash reached Khosrow upon the height;", "He laughed to see Bahram’s tremendous might."]}, {"id": "E6.24.41", "lines": ["But valiant Niyatus grew blind with ire,", "Because the Shah had smiled amid the fire."]}, {"id": "E6.24.42", "lines": ["He said, “Great king, one should not laugh in war,", "When vengeance is the goal you labor for."]}, {"id": "E6.24.43", "lines": ["To you, war is but alchemy and art;", "Ancestral vengeance sleeps within your heart."]}, {"id": "E6.24.44", "lines": ["In Rum or Iran none will see again", "A man like Kut Hazara, first of men."]}, {"id": "E6.24.45", "lines": ["You laugh because he met his death today;", "Know that your Fortune now has turned away.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.46", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “I laughed not at the dead,", "Nor at the blood his fatal wound had shed."]}, {"id": "E6.24.47", "lines": ["Who mocks another’s fall shall surely know", "The turning sky will strike him blow for blow."]}, {"id": "E6.24.48", "lines": ["Kut said to me, ‘You fled before a slave,", "And lacked the prowess of the truly brave.’"]}, {"id": "E6.24.49", "lines": ["Yet flight before this slave of matchless might", "Brings no disgrace to one who leaves the fight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.50", "lines": ["Then Bahram cried, “O chiefs of glorious birth,", "Yalan-sina, Ram, whose names have worth,"]}, {"id": "E6.24.51", "lines": ["And Izad Gashasp, bind this Roman dead,", "And send him back upon his horse,” he said."]}, {"id": "E6.24.52", "lines": ["“Send him to camp, his cleft flesh plain to view,", "That his own Shah may see him split in two.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.53", "lines": ["They bound the corpse securely to the seat;", "The charger bore it back with iron feet."]}, {"id": "E6.24.54", "lines": ["Then Khosrow grieved for Kut among the dead;", "His joy had vanished, sorrow bowed his head."]}, {"id": "E6.24.55", "lines": ["They loosed the tight kamand that bound the slain,", "And laid the body out upon the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.24.56", "lines": ["They filled the wound with musk; the body dried,", "They sewed it in a shroud on every side."]}, {"id": "E6.24.57", "lines": ["His jowshan on, his waist was girdled fast;", "They sent him back to Caesar at the last."]}, {"id": "E6.24.58", "lines": ["The message ran: “Behold this slave in fight,", "And see how sharply his sword’s edge can bite."]}, {"id": "E6.24.59", "lines": ["If with his scimitar he strikes this way,", "I bear no shame for having fled that day.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.60", "lines": ["The Romans, heartbroken before they fought,", "Were sorely stricken by that bitter thought."]}, {"id": "E6.24.61", "lines": ["The patrician wept in bitter woe;", "The warriors’ spirits sank before the foe."]}, {"id": "E6.24.62", "lines": ["Ten thousand mighty men advanced as one,", "Both prelates and horsemen beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "E6.24.63", "lines": ["They charged so fiercely that the hills were split", "By cries and blows as gorz and sword-strokes hit."]}, {"id": "E6.24.64", "lines": ["The sea seemed boiling in the battle’s throes;", "The heavens thundered at the clashing foes."]}, {"id": "E6.24.65", "lines": ["The troops were blocked and sundered by the slain;", "A Roman legion fell upon the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.24.66", "lines": ["Khosrow, in grief, had every wound well dressed,", "For Rum’s slain champions grief oppressed his breast."]}, {"id": "E6.24.67", "lines": ["They piled the dead into a mountain’s height,", "And called it Bahram-chid, a dreadful sight."]}, {"id": "E6.24.68", "lines": ["Khosrow abandoned hope in Rum that day;", "He said, “If twice more Rum should fight this way,"]}, {"id": "E6.24.69", "lines": ["No Roman legions will be left to wield", "Their swords; count steel as wax upon the field.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.70", "lines": ["He told Sarges, “Let Rum’s worn troops take rest;", "Tomorrow Iran’s men shall meet the test.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.71", "lines": ["To Iran’s men he said, “No more delay;", "Tomorrow, arm at dawn in war’s array.”"]}, {"id": "E6.24.72", "lines": ["They answered, “We shall do as you command,", "And fill with blood the hills and desert land.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.1", "lines": ["When day’s white banner rose above the main,", "The stars lost hope of darkness and its reign."]}, {"id": "E6.25.2", "lines": ["The drummers left both camp-enclosures then,", "With elephants and karnays before men."]}, {"id": "E6.25.3", "lines": ["The horns gave voice; from elephants on high,", "The brazen tabiras boomed to the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.25.4", "lines": ["The plains and uplands seemed to heave and shake;", "The sun grew raven-black amid the quake."]}, {"id": "E6.25.5", "lines": ["The Iranians formed ranks and grasped their spears,", "And Indian swords flashed bright against their fears."]}, {"id": "E6.25.6", "lines": ["The earth appeared one cuirass, hard and bright;", "The spearheads kindled stars with points of light."]}, {"id": "E6.25.7", "lines": ["When Khosrow set the center in array,", "The troops took heart and stood prepared that day."]}, {"id": "E6.25.8", "lines": ["Gordvi, the valiant, held the army’s right,", "A chief of name and practiced arm in fight."]}, {"id": "E6.25.9", "lines": ["Upon the left, an Armenian of might", "Stood jowshan-clad like Ahriman’s dark blight."]}, {"id": "E6.25.10", "lines": ["Shapur and Andiyan stood close and grim,", "And drew their jowshans tight on trunk and limb."]}, {"id": "E6.25.11", "lines": ["Close to the Shah, to ward him from all harm,", "Stood faithful Gostaham with ready arm."]}, {"id": "E6.25.12", "lines": ["When brave Bahram Chubin surveyed the plain,", "And saw no Romans there in warlike train,"]}, {"id": "E6.25.13", "lines": ["He paused in silence; then he gave command", "That tabiras on elephants should stand."]}, {"id": "E6.25.14", "lines": ["The world grew indigo beneath that cloud;", "The dust rose thick; the tabiras rang loud."]}, {"id": "E6.25.15", "lines": ["The elephant he rode was huge and white;", "The foe despaired to see that beast of might."]}, {"id": "E6.25.16", "lines": ["He drove his elephant toward the right,", "And called Shapur before the troops in sight:"]}, {"id": "E6.25.17", "lines": ["“O knave, your secret note declared you mine;", "Why do you stand in Khosrow’s battle-line?"]}, {"id": "E6.25.18", "lines": ["This is no custom known in Iran’s land:", "To pledge support, then raise a hostile hand."]}, {"id": "E6.25.19", "lines": ["You have betrayed yourself and now are led", "To offer up your body to the dead.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.20", "lines": ["Shapur replied, “You Div-like man, beware;", "A slave, you raise your head with haughty air."]}, {"id": "E6.25.21", "lines": ["Whose name and token did that letter hold,", "Of which you speak before these nobles bold?”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.22", "lines": ["Then mighty Khosrow said aloud to him,", "“That letter matched his plot in purpose grim."]}, {"id": "E6.25.23", "lines": ["For that same letter, recompense is due", "From me and all these noble chiefs to you."]}, {"id": "E6.25.24", "lines": ["In proper season I shall make it clear,", "And purge the doubt that stains your honor here.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.25", "lines": ["Bahram heard Khosrow’s words and knew the snare;", "Wrath seized his heart; his shame blazed to a flare."]}, {"id": "E6.25.26", "lines": ["In fury he would fight without his men,", "The usurper trusted sword and strength again."]}, {"id": "E6.25.27", "lines": ["Upon his elephant he charged the heart", "Of Khosrow’s center, breaking rank apart."]}, {"id": "E6.25.28", "lines": ["The Shah to Andiyan cried, “Lion of might,", "Make bows a storm and darken all his sight."]}, {"id": "E6.25.29", "lines": ["Pour arrows on that elephant like rain;", "Make springtime clouds of bows across the plain.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.30", "lines": ["Iran’s men, blessed by Fortune, strung their bows,", "And arrow-clouds flew thick against their foes."]}, {"id": "E6.25.31", "lines": ["The elephant’s trunk was riddled through and through;", "Its wounds had turned its hide to indigo-blue."]}, {"id": "E6.25.32", "lines": ["Bahram, down from his wounded beast, decreed", "A helm, and kingly arms, and a fresh steed."]}, {"id": "E6.25.33", "lines": ["The arrows showered on his horse like rain;", "His fury mounted on the battle plain."]}, {"id": "E6.25.34", "lines": ["The warrior left his horse, his sword in hand,", "And tucked his mail-skirt high, prepared to stand."]}, {"id": "E6.25.35", "lines": ["He raised his shield above his lowered head,", "And brought Doomsday among the ranks that fled."]}, {"id": "E6.25.36", "lines": ["The foe dropped bows of Chakh and fled in fear,", "While none would dare to meet or draw him near."]}, {"id": "E6.25.37", "lines": ["They brought a horse; he mounted, mad with rage,", "And stormed once more, a lion freed from cage."]}, {"id": "E6.25.38", "lines": ["He charged the Shah through ranks of iron might;", "Through dust and blood he broke them in the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.25.39", "lines": ["The royal standard vanished from the sight;", "Confusion spread through center, left, and right."]}, {"id": "E6.25.40", "lines": ["Then to the right he turned, his purpose clear,", "And left the noble warriors in his rear."]}, {"id": "E6.25.41", "lines": ["There Gordvi held command and challenged death,", "Ambitious, valiant, fierce in every breath."]}, {"id": "E6.25.42", "lines": ["When he beheld his brother in the fray,", "He strung his bow and barred the battle-way."]}, {"id": "E6.25.43", "lines": ["The blood-stained brothers clashed with all their might;", "They seemed entwined, so close they pressed the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.25.44", "lines": ["For long they strove, and neither yielded ground;", "The clash of kin and sword rang all around."]}, {"id": "E6.25.45", "lines": ["Then Bahram cried, “You villain, would you stand", "To spill your brother’s blood with your own hand?”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.46", "lines": ["Gordvi replied, “Mottled wolf, have you heard", "The weight of this remembered, piercing word:"]}, {"id": "E6.25.47", "lines": ["A brother who is friend is heaven-sent;", "If turned to foe, let skin and vein be rent."]}, {"id": "E6.25.48", "lines": ["You hate the Maker in your wicked heart;", "From goodness and from honor you depart."]}, {"id": "E6.25.49", "lines": ["No man of honor seeks his brother’s death,", "Or fights to rob him of his living breath.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.50", "lines": ["Bahram, on hearing this, withdrew in rage,", "With burning wrath from that most bitter stage."]}, {"id": "E6.25.51", "lines": ["Gordvi, with face as dark as jowshan-scale,", "Went to the Shah, whose heart had feared to fail."]}, {"id": "E6.25.52", "lines": ["Khosrow received him lovingly and said,", "“May turning heaven reward your heart and head.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.53", "lines": ["The Shah then moved toward center, where his men", "Were reeling from the blow of war again."]}, {"id": "E6.25.54", "lines": ["He sent Shapur: “Help Mawsil in the fight;", "Stand back to back, and strive for Fortune bright.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.55", "lines": ["Meanwhile the king to Gostaham made plain:", "“If Rum’s legions should share the battle’s pain,"]}, {"id": "E6.25.56", "lines": ["Then when Bahram is wounded or is crushed,", "They will lift heads to heaven, triumph-flushed."]}, {"id": "E6.25.57", "lines": ["I would not let the Romans grow too proud,", "Or boast above us openly and loud."]}, {"id": "E6.25.58", "lines": ["I have observed their prowess; now I know", "They are a winter flock before the snow."]}, {"id": "E6.25.59", "lines": ["With few companions I shall make my stand,", "And challenge Chubin there, hand against hand."]}, {"id": "E6.25.60", "lines": ["I trust in God, the Succorer in strife;", "I seek no other aid to guard my life.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.61", "lines": ["Then Gostaham said, “King, do not desire", "To cast your precious life in battle-fire."]}, {"id": "E6.25.62", "lines": ["But if your purpose will not change or bend,", "Choose trusted comrades, ready to defend.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.63", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Your counsel has been good;", "Choose from the army those who well have stood.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.64", "lines": ["Then Gostaham selected from the throng", "Fourteen Iranian riders, brave and strong."]}, {"id": "E6.25.65", "lines": ["He wrote himself first on the chosen roll,", "A warrior practiced, firm of hand and soul."]}, {"id": "E6.25.66", "lines": ["Then brave Shapur and Andiyan were named,", "With Bandvi, Gordvi, each in battle famed."]}, {"id": "E6.25.67", "lines": ["He chose Shirzil; Azargashasp he took,", "And Zangwi, whose great courage never shook."]}, {"id": "E6.25.68", "lines": ["Zangwi would face a lion without fear,", "Or raging elephant that ventured near."]}, {"id": "E6.25.69", "lines": ["Tukhar as well, a helper in the fight,", "A mortal foe to Yalan-sina’s might."]}, {"id": "E6.25.70", "lines": ["Then Khosrow, Farrokhzad, were named beside", "Those chosen men, whose worth was known and tried."]}, {"id": "E6.25.71", "lines": ["And Ashtad Pirooz, a warrior rare,", "Whose stroke made foemen flee in wild despair."]}, {"id": "E6.25.72", "lines": ["Ormozd and blessed Khorshid formed the pair", "Before whom enemies were grass laid bare."]}, {"id": "E6.25.73", "lines": ["Their chief was Gostaham, in battle tried;", "Thus fourteen chosen warriors stood allied."]}, {"id": "E6.25.74", "lines": ["With them he hurried from the army’s post,", "To follow Khosrow where the risk was most."]}, {"id": "E6.25.75", "lines": ["Khosrow addressed those chiefs: “My noble men,", "Look now to God, and smile in heart again."]}, {"id": "E6.25.76", "lines": ["Take heart; no deed can happen where we are", "Except as He decrees by hidden farr."]}, {"id": "E6.25.77", "lines": ["While this old sky above us still endures,", "His word alone decides what fate assures."]}, {"id": "E6.25.78", "lines": ["Better to perish fighting in the field", "Than let a slave command and make us yield."]}, {"id": "E6.25.79", "lines": ["You are my bodyguard within the fray;", "When I move out, I shall not pause or stay.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.80", "lines": ["They blessed him, hailed him king beneath the crown,", "And vowed that none would leave or let him down."]}, {"id": "E6.25.81", "lines": ["The monarch heard, and all his heart revived;", "With those brave warriors, hope and joy survived."]}, {"id": "E6.25.82", "lines": ["To Bahram Farrokh he entrusted all", "His troops, then rode with fourteen at his call."]}, {"id": "E6.25.83", "lines": ["Then from a lookout sudden shouts arose;", "They told Bahram, “A troop comes from our foes.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.84", "lines": ["That watchful aspirant sprang on his steed,", "His kamand strapped, his sword already freed."]}, {"id": "E6.25.85", "lines": ["When from the height he saw their ordered line,", "He chose three warriors, battle-tried and fine."]}, {"id": "E6.25.86", "lines": ["He told Yalan-sina, “That proud foe", "Has proved himself a hardy man, I know."]}, {"id": "E6.25.87", "lines": ["Now I know none but he would dare to ride", "Upon this field of vengeance, pride to pride."]}, {"id": "E6.25.88", "lines": ["He comes attended by a troop so small,", "As if to face the dread nahang and fall."]}, {"id": "E6.25.89", "lines": ["No more than twenty riders come this way;", "Who any of them are, I cannot say.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.90", "lines": ["To Yalan-sina and Gashasp he spoke:", "“True valor cannot hide beneath a cloak."]}, {"id": "E6.25.91", "lines": ["Four of us will suffice, for Fortune’s hand", "Is friendlier to me than Khosrow’s band.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.92", "lines": ["He gave the army to Janfuruz by name,", "Who loved night’s gloom more than the daylight’s flame."]}, {"id": "E6.25.93", "lines": ["Then he rode forth with those three wary men,", "A little storm of battle came again."]}, {"id": "E6.25.94", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw Bahram Chubin draw near,", "He told his comrades, “Let no heart know fear."]}, {"id": "E6.25.95", "lines": ["A troop has come, but this is my command:", "Leave vile Bahram to my gorz and hand."]}, {"id": "E6.25.96", "lines": ["Let me deal with his person in the fight;", "You face his chiefs and show Iran’s true might."]}, {"id": "E6.25.97", "lines": ["You fourteen stand against his chosen three;", "May none of you behold defeat or flee.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.98", "lines": ["But Niyatus and Roman soldiers rose,", "And from the field went up to watch the foes."]}, {"id": "E6.25.99", "lines": ["They climbed the heights and watched the troops below,", "And cried, “Why stake the crown on one man’s throw?"]}, {"id": "E6.25.100", "lines": ["Why barter life for crown upon the plain,", "When many horses and brave troops remain?”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.101", "lines": ["They raised their hands to heaven, all in dread,", "Believing Khosrow numbered with the dead."]}, {"id": "E6.25.102", "lines": ["Bahram charged forth, his chosen men beside,", "Khosrow’s companions trembled, terrified."]}, {"id": "E6.25.103", "lines": ["Yalan-sina and Izad Gashasp sped", "With fierce Bahram, and cries of battle spread."]}, {"id": "E6.25.104", "lines": ["The comrades of Khosrow Parviz took flight;", "The wolf had fallen on a flock in fright."]}, {"id": "E6.25.105", "lines": ["Those nobles, full of wrath, were overthrown;", "They saw the fierce Div’s strength too clearly shown."]}, {"id": "E6.25.106", "lines": ["Yet Bandvi, Gordvi, and Gostaham stayed", "Beside the Shah when all the rest had strayed."]}, {"id": "E6.25.107", "lines": ["With prayer to God, hard-pressed within the fray,", "Khosrow at last turned back his steed away."]}, {"id": "E6.25.108", "lines": ["Izad Gashasp pressed hard upon his trail;", "The Shah felt doom descend and courage fail."]}, {"id": "E6.25.109", "lines": ["“My fate has come. What madness in my head", "Made me court Doomsday and approach the dead?"]}, {"id": "E6.25.110", "lines": ["The folk have seen my back in open flight;", "How shall I bear this shame before their sight?”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.111", "lines": ["Then Gostaham said, “Horsemen now draw near;", "Why should you fight alone and perish here?”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.112", "lines": ["The Shah looked back and saw Bahram give chase,", "With three men bent on war, who kept his pace."]}, {"id": "E6.25.113", "lines": ["To save himself, he cut his charger free", "Of its black bargostvan, and turned to flee."]}, {"id": "E6.25.114", "lines": ["Two riders lagged behind him on the track;", "His vengeful foe came howling at his back."]}, {"id": "E6.25.115", "lines": ["A narrow cave confronted him ahead;", "Behind came three fierce warriors, battle-bred."]}, {"id": "E6.25.116", "lines": ["The mountain blocked its end; no troops stood near,", "And no man raised a shield to guard his rear."]}, {"id": "E6.25.117", "lines": ["That glorious youth dismounted there to scale", "The stony heights on foot along the trail."]}, {"id": "E6.25.118", "lines": ["His path was blocked; his heart was sore with dread;", "He could not stay, could not advance ahead."]}, {"id": "E6.25.119", "lines": ["Bahram cried, “Trickster, now your heights descend;", "Your lofty rise has reached its downward end."]}, {"id": "E6.25.120", "lines": ["Why charge at me, your death upon your back?", "You bore it on your shoulders to attack.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.121", "lines": ["Then, trapped between the sword that pressed him hard", "And mountain rocks before, his passage barred,"]}, {"id": "E6.25.122", "lines": ["The Shah cried, “Maker, high above time’s wheel,", "Reach out in this distress; hear my appeal."]}, {"id": "E6.25.123", "lines": ["With You, I need not raise a pleading cry", "To Saturn or to Mercury on high.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.124", "lines": ["Before that prayer had wholly left his breath,", "Soroush appeared and saved him out of death."]}, {"id": "E6.25.125", "lines": ["Robed green, he rode upon a snow-white steed,", "And strength returned to Khosrow in his need."]}, {"id": "E6.25.126", "lines": ["He grasped the prince’s hand; for God Most High", "Can work such wonders underneath the sky;"]}, {"id": "E6.25.127", "lines": ["And bore him safely from the hostile band,", "Then set him down and freed his clasped right hand."]}, {"id": "E6.25.128", "lines": ["Khosrow, by turns both speaking and in tears,", "Asked, “What is your name?” amid his fears."]}, {"id": "E6.25.129", "lines": ["“Soroush. Now safe, be free of grief and fear;", "You shall be king; your sovereign days draw near."]}, {"id": "E6.25.130", "lines": ["Be holy in your conduct and your way.”", "He spoke, then vanished from the light of day."]}, {"id": "E6.25.131", "lines": ["No mortal eye had seen so strange a sign;", "Bahram beheld and called on power divine."]}, {"id": "E6.25.132", "lines": ["He said, “May courage never leave my breast", "While mortal warriors put my strength to test."]}, {"id": "E6.25.133", "lines": ["But now that powers unseen oppose my might,", "I mourn my clouded fortune in this fight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.134", "lines": ["Then pain filled Bahram, sorrow bowed his head;", "He rued his deeds and all the strife he led."]}, {"id": "E6.25.135", "lines": ["Upon the mountainside Niyatus prayed", "That God would keep Khosrow from harm and blade."]}, {"id": "E6.25.136", "lines": ["And Maryam tore her cheeks in grief and dread", "For her crowned husband, whom she feared was dead."]}, {"id": "E6.25.137", "lines": ["The troops filled mountain, valley, plain, and height;", "The Romans’ hearts were scorched by grief and fright."]}, {"id": "E6.25.138", "lines": ["Niyatus drew her golden litter near:", "“Sit here; the Shah is dead, or so I fear.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.139", "lines": ["But on the mountain’s farther side, away", "From all the troops, Khosrow appeared that day."]}, {"id": "E6.25.140", "lines": ["The Roman ranks rejoiced to see him stand,", "And Maryam’s grief released its bitter hand."]}, {"id": "E6.25.141", "lines": ["He came to her and told what he had seen,", "Then spoke to Caesar’s daughter, still his queen:"]}, {"id": "E6.25.142", "lines": ["“The righteous Judge has shown His justice bright;", "No sloth or cowardice compelled my flight."]}, {"id": "E6.25.143", "lines": ["For cowards show their weakness in the fight;", "I stood alone within that mountain height."]}, {"id": "E6.25.144", "lines": ["Alone within the cave, beset by care,", "I called upon the Maker in my prayer."]}, {"id": "E6.25.145", "lines": ["And He who orders all beneath the skies", "Revealed His hidden purpose to my eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.25.146", "lines": ["Not Fereydoon, nor Tur, nor Salm of old,", "Nor Afrasiab dreamed what I behold.”"]}, {"id": "E6.25.147", "lines": ["He told the chiefs, “The vision I beheld", "Foretells my throne restored, the rebel felled."]}, {"id": "E6.25.148", "lines": ["Renew the battle; bear my name in mind,", "And press the foe, and leave all fear behind.”"]}, {"id": "E6.26.1", "lines": ["The troops came down from high ground to the fight;", "The horsemen’s dust made black the face of light."]}, {"id": "E6.26.2", "lines": ["Bahram advanced his army to the fray;", "No light remained within the dust-dark day."]}, {"id": "E6.26.3", "lines": ["He said, “Whoever leads a fighting band", "Needs wit and courage, means at his command."]}, {"id": "E6.26.4", "lines": ["The brave have seen the darts my hands have thrown;", "My Pahlevan’s true nature they have known."]}, {"id": "E6.26.5", "lines": ["They chose me over kings; I shall bring shame", "Upon great Anooshirvan’s royal name.”"]}, {"id": "E6.26.6", "lines": ["He rushed in reckless haste before the king,", "And strung his bow, prepared the shaft to fling."]}, {"id": "E6.26.7", "lines": ["He loosed an arrow at the Shah; it stayed", "Caught at his waist within the rich brocade."]}, {"id": "E6.26.8", "lines": ["The point hung slantwise; then a slave drew near", "And pulled it free; the Shah charged with his spear."]}, {"id": "E6.26.9", "lines": ["The Shah then thrust his spear against his foe;", "It struck the belt where jowshan rings did show."]}, {"id": "E6.26.10", "lines": ["The spearhead snapped, yet still the rebel quailed;", "Though belt and jowshan held, his courage failed."]}, {"id": "E6.26.11", "lines": ["The Shah grew angry when his spear gave way;", "His sword struck on Bahram’s helm in the fray."]}, {"id": "E6.26.12", "lines": ["The sword-blade shattered with that mighty blow,", "And lodged within the helmet of his foe."]}, {"id": "E6.26.13", "lines": ["All those who saw and heard the iron ring", "Raised cries of praise around the fighting king."]}, {"id": "E6.26.14", "lines": ["The nobles followed where Khosrow had led,", "And shattered all the army ranged ahead."]}, {"id": "E6.26.15", "lines": ["Then Bandvi came before the Shah and cried,", "“O crown whose height outsoars the moon in pride,"]}, {"id": "E6.26.16", "lines": ["These troops, like ants and locusts, now are spread,", "Across the sand and rocky desert bed."]}, {"id": "E6.26.17", "lines": ["No Shah should spill their blood in reckless strife,", "Or fight his slave to take that servant’s life."]}, {"id": "E6.26.18", "lines": ["Better that they appeal to us for grace", "Than fall or suffer wounds within this place.”"]}, {"id": "E6.26.19", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “I seek no vengeance here", "On those who turn from wrong; they need not fear."]}, {"id": "E6.26.20", "lines": ["I grant them grace; they shall not be cast down,", "But ornaments of glory for my crown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.26.21", "lines": ["Night’s flag rose dark above the hills on high;", "Both armies drew back as the light passed by."]}, {"id": "E6.26.22", "lines": ["The sentries challenged, bells rang through the deep;", "The troops that night had little share of sleep."]}, {"id": "E6.26.23", "lines": ["Bandvi, resolved, went out across the plain,", "And chose a herald from the martial train."]}, {"id": "E6.26.24", "lines": ["He bade the clear-voiced herald mount and ride,", "And let his proclamation travel wide."]}, {"id": "E6.26.25", "lines": ["He rode between the armies, near the foe;", "The herald cried so every rank would know:"]}, {"id": "E6.26.26", "lines": ["“O slaves who sinned and seek your fortune’s light,", "You worst offenders, famed for deeds in fight:"]}, {"id": "E6.26.27", "lines": ["For God’s sake, he forgives each one of you,", "Your hidden crimes and those in public view.”"]}, {"id": "E6.26.28", "lines": ["The sound went through the darkness, loud and clear;", "Each listener turned an attentive ear."]}, {"id": "E6.26.29", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin’s chiefs prepared for flight,", "And fastened on their belts that very night."]}, {"id": "E6.26.30", "lines": ["When sun rose up and day on hilltops shone,", "The tents across the plain were left alone."]}, {"id": "E6.26.31", "lines": ["Bahram knew nothing of the night’s events;", "Only his friends remained among the tents."]}, {"id": "E6.26.32", "lines": ["He passed among the tents and told his train,", "“Far better flight than Doomsday on this plain.”"]}, {"id": "E6.26.33", "lines": ["Three thousand camels he called forth; they strained", "Beneath his wealth, and all his camp contained."]}, {"id": "E6.26.34", "lines": ["They packed his clothes and carpets for the load,", "With gold and silver treasures for the road."]}, {"id": "E6.26.35", "lines": ["His ivory throne, gold torque and armlets bright,", "And crown were loaded ready for the flight."]}, {"id": "E6.26.36", "lines": ["When all was loaded, he prepared to go,", "And mounted, set to turn back from the foe."]}, {"id": "E6.27.1", "lines": ["When bright Sol raised his royal throne on high,", "The Shah sent scouts beneath the morning sky."]}, {"id": "E6.27.2", "lines": ["They found the chieftain’s tent stripped bare and cold,", "No soldier left within its empty fold."]}, {"id": "E6.27.3", "lines": ["The scouts returned and told of Bahram’s flight;", "Khosrow grew troubled by that man of might."]}, {"id": "E6.27.4", "lines": ["He chose three thousand horsemen for the chase,", "In jowshans, steeds in bargostvan, in place."]}, {"id": "E6.27.5", "lines": ["He bade Nastooh mount and pursue the foe;", "The warrior girt himself, prepared to go."]}, {"id": "E6.27.6", "lines": ["Nastooh rode on, his heart weighed down with pain,", "Yet was no match for Bahram on the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.27.7", "lines": ["Bahram meanwhile had no secure retreat;", "He led his troops off-road on anxious feet."]}, {"id": "E6.27.8", "lines": ["He kept his silver and his gold close by,", "And crossed the barren land beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.27.9", "lines": ["Yalan-sina and Izad Gashasp rode", "Along one flank as on the army flowed."]}, {"id": "E6.27.10", "lines": ["They led the troops off-road through country vast,", "And told old tales of Shahs from ages past."]}, {"id": "E6.27.11", "lines": ["A humble hamlet stood beside the way,", "Where no great chief would ever choose to stay."]}, {"id": "E6.27.12", "lines": ["Bahram rode on ahead of all his men;", "Remorse and sorrow filled his mind again."]}, {"id": "E6.27.13", "lines": ["When thirst had parched their mouths, they sought and found", "An aging woman’s house on humble ground."]}, {"id": "E6.27.14", "lines": ["In courteous words they asked for drink and bread;", "She brought an ancient sieve and on it spread"]}, {"id": "E6.27.15", "lines": ["A piece of waterskin, and on it laid", "The barley bread, a humble meal she made."]}, {"id": "E6.27.16", "lines": ["Yalan-sina gave barsom for the prayer;", "Bahram forgot the words in his despair."]}, {"id": "E6.27.17", "lines": ["They ate, then asked for wine to crown the board;", "The woman said she had a little hoard."]}, {"id": "E6.27.18", "lines": ["“I have an ancient gourd, its top cut through;", "I made a cup and set it here for you.”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.19", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Then fill that rustic cup;", "No finer vessel could be lifted up.”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.20", "lines": ["She fetched the wine; he drank and was content,", "And to the crone a brimming portion sent."]}, {"id": "E6.27.21", "lines": ["“Take cheer too, gracious mother; tell me, say,", "What tidings move the world about today?”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.22", "lines": ["“My brain is worn,” she said, “from all I hear;", "Today men came from town; their news was clear."]}, {"id": "E6.27.23", "lines": ["They said Bahram’s troops joined the Shah instead;", "Their chief escaped without them when he fled.”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.24", "lines": ["He asked, “Did Bahram act as wisdom taught,", "Or choose the pleasure his desires had sought?”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.25", "lines": ["She said, “Famed man, has Div so dimmed your sight", "That truth itself is hidden from your light?"]}, {"id": "E6.27.26", "lines": ["Since Bahram, son of Goshnasp, spurred his steed,", "The wise have laughed to see his reckless deed."]}, {"id": "E6.27.27", "lines": ["He rode against Khosrow, Hormizd’s own son;", "No place among the chiefs has Bahram won.”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.28", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “If longing brought him here,", "Then let this gourd of wine supply his cheer."]}, {"id": "E6.27.29", "lines": ["Keep barley bread upon this sieve, well heaped,", "Before him till the barley crop is reaped.”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.30", "lines": ["That night he lay there in his tunic dressed,", "His cuirass underneath his shoulder pressed."]}, {"id": "E6.27.31", "lines": ["Sleep came not near; no rest would ease his heart;", "Vain longings pierced him like a poisoned dart."]}, {"id": "E6.27.32", "lines": ["When Sol in heaven made all secrets clear,", "He bade the tabira sound; all could hear."]}, {"id": "E6.27.33", "lines": ["He gathered what remained of all his men,", "And those high nobles set their course again."]}, {"id": "E6.27.34", "lines": ["They came upon a reed-bed by the way,", "Where many people cut the reeds that day."]}, {"id": "E6.27.35", "lines": ["When they saw Bahram’s armed array draw near,", "They cried, “God bless you, but take warning here."]}, {"id": "E6.27.36", "lines": ["Why take this reed-bed route? Beyond you stand", "A mass of troops with blood on every hand.”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.37", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Those must be horsemen sent", "By Khosrow, on our capture now intent."]}, {"id": "E6.27.38", "lines": ["I heard, when we prepared to leave our place,", "That Khosrow chose Nastooh to give us chase."]}, {"id": "E6.27.39", "lines": ["Ambitious but unfit, he leads the band", "Of three thousand mailed horsemen through the land."]}, {"id": "E6.27.40", "lines": ["His days shall end when he appears in sight;", "Surround this grove, and draw your girths up tight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.41", "lines": ["The riders tightened girths and swords they drew,", "Then fired the reed-bed where the wild smoke flew."]}, {"id": "E6.27.42", "lines": ["The reeds blazed up; the force was overturned;", "Some men were slain, and other men were burned."]}, {"id": "E6.27.43", "lines": ["Bahram perceived Nastooh and gave his steed", "The rein, and thundered forward at full speed."]}, {"id": "E6.27.44", "lines": ["He cast his kamand, dragged him from his horse;", "They bound his helpless hands with iron force."]}, {"id": "E6.27.45", "lines": ["Nastooh begged quarter: “Mighty chief, show grace;", "Have pity on my ruined, helpless case."]}, {"id": "E6.27.46", "lines": ["Spare me, and I shall serve you, poor and low,", "A wretched beggar, running where you go.”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.47", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “I shall not take your head;", "A man like you should shun this field instead."]}, {"id": "E6.27.48", "lines": ["To kill so small a man would bring me shame;", "Such deeds disgrace a Pahlevan’s good name."]}, {"id": "E6.27.49", "lines": ["When you are free, to Khosrow make it known", "What you have seen of me, what I have shown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.27.50", "lines": ["Nastooh then kissed the earth and praised him long;", "To Rey Bahram rode, with his comrades strong."]}, {"id": "E6.27.51", "lines": ["He stayed and rested there, then rode away,", "And hastened to the Khan without delay."]}, {"id": "E6.28.1", "lines": ["Khosrow Parviz surveyed the battleground,", "And shared the plunder of the camp around:"]}, {"id": "E6.28.2", "lines": ["To Rum’s allied legions he gave first share,", "Then cheered Iran’s worn warriors from despair."]}, {"id": "E6.28.3", "lines": ["He mounted his swift horse and rode to pray;", "A tract of thorny ground lay on his way."]}, {"id": "E6.28.4", "lines": ["Afoot he entered where the thorns were spread,", "And rolled in dust before his God, and said:"]}, {"id": "E6.28.5", "lines": ["“O righteous Judge, You put the foe to flight,", "And freed our land; I bow before Your might."]}, {"id": "E6.28.6", "lines": ["Your mercy passed all bounds that thought could frame;", "I am Your slave, devoted to Your name."]}, {"id": "E6.28.7", "lines": ["Worthless am I before Your high command;", "I bow to all that You in wisdom planned.”"]}, {"id": "E6.28.8", "lines": ["He then returned; his guide before him came,", "And he called forth a practiced scribe of fame."]}, {"id": "E6.28.9", "lines": ["He bade him write on silk to Caesar’s court,", "To tell of war and Heaven’s own support."]}, {"id": "E6.28.10", "lines": ["He first praised God, from whom his prowess grew,", "His Fortune, and the skill that saw him through."]}, {"id": "E6.28.11", "lines": ["Then said, “In secret God upheld my way;", "I reached Azargashasp with my array."]}, {"id": "E6.28.12", "lines": ["My foe rushed out to meet me in the fight,", "And pressed me hard with all his battle-might."]}, {"id": "E6.28.13", "lines": ["But holy God gave him no helping hand;", "Without that help, his war could never stand."]}, {"id": "E6.28.14", "lines": ["The burning blast of battle died away;", "Bereft of troops, he fled at break of day."]}, {"id": "E6.28.15", "lines": ["We broke his troops and burned his camp outright;", "By God’s command, I barred his path of flight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.28.16", "lines": ["They set the Shah’s seal on the silken page,", "And envoys bore it onward stage by stage."]}, {"id": "E6.28.17", "lines": ["They reached the court of Caesar, famed and bright,", "Whose Fortune woke beneath auspicious light."]}, {"id": "E6.28.18", "lines": ["He read, and stepped down from his royal seat,", "And cried to God, whose power is all-complete:"]}, {"id": "E6.28.19", "lines": ["“O changeless Guide, through You Your servant won;", "You raise the fallen when their strength is done.”"]}, {"id": "E6.28.20", "lines": ["He lavished alms and food in heavy loads,", "Then wrote a reply to speed along the roads."]}, {"id": "E6.28.21", "lines": ["His answer bloomed, a tree in Paradise,", "With praise to God, the just, the great, the wise:"]}, {"id": "E6.28.22", "lines": ["“In God’s name, Lord of every farr and right,", "Of moon and sun, of day and sovereign might,"]}, {"id": "E6.28.23", "lines": ["From Him all greatness and good Fortune flow;", "While life endures, your thanks to Him must go."]}, {"id": "E6.28.24", "lines": ["In public and in private, be the same;", "Let justice and good deeds adorn your name.”"]}, {"id": "E6.28.25", "lines": ["He sent a crown, an heirloom long renowned,", "Reserved until a worthy hour was found."]}, {"id": "E6.28.26", "lines": ["With earrings, royal torque, and robes gold-scrolled,", "One hundred sixty garments, fold on fold."]}, {"id": "E6.28.27", "lines": ["And thirty camel-loads of minted gold,", "With pearls and rubies, more than could be told."]}, {"id": "E6.28.28", "lines": ["A golden crucifix with gems arrayed,", "A green robe where gold crosses were displayed:"]}, {"id": "E6.28.29", "lines": ["Four Roman sages brought these gifts in hand,", "To honor Christ within the Iranian land."]}, {"id": "E6.28.30", "lines": ["Khosrow dispatched a thousand noble horse", "To meet the Roman envoys on their course."]}, {"id": "E6.28.31", "lines": ["They reached him safely with the gifts displayed;", "He read, and marveled at the wealth conveyed."]}, {"id": "E6.28.32", "lines": ["He told his minister, “These robes they bear", "Are jeweled garments Rum’s chief prelates wear."]}, {"id": "E6.28.33", "lines": ["They are not robes that worldly nobles don,", "But sacred vestments priests alone put on."]}, {"id": "E6.28.34", "lines": ["If jeweled crosses deck my royal dress,", "It will seem Christian faith that I profess."]}, {"id": "E6.28.35", "lines": ["Yet if I do not wear them, Caesar’s mind", "Will misconstrue the heart he hoped to find."]}, {"id": "E6.28.36", "lines": ["But if I wear them, nobles may complain,", "‘The king turns Christian for his love of gain.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.28.37", "lines": ["His counselor replied, “O Shah, take care:", "The robes a man puts on no creed declare."]}, {"id": "E6.28.38", "lines": ["Though you are bound to Caesar, still you hold", "The Faith Zardosht the prophet taught of old.”"]}, {"id": "E6.28.39", "lines": ["He donned the cross-marked robe; the crown hung down,", "As Rum’s glad envoys praised his high renown;"]}, {"id": "E6.28.40", "lines": ["Yet Iran’s grandees and Mobadan sighed,", "And murmured at the sight, dissatisfied:"]}, {"id": "E6.28.41", "lines": ["“The Shah has cast the ancient Faith aside,", "And wears the Christian cross in shameful pride!”"]}, {"id": "E6.29.1", "lines": ["Next day Khosrow prepared his royal throne,", "And donned the crown that marked the realm his own."]}, {"id": "E6.29.2", "lines": ["The festal board was spread within the bower;", "He called the Romans to the feast that hour."]}, {"id": "E6.29.3", "lines": ["Niyatus and the Romans took their seat", "Beside the sages, at the board to eat."]}, {"id": "E6.29.4", "lines": ["When Khosrow left the audience-throne of state,", "In jeweled robes from Rum, superb and great,"]}, {"id": "E6.29.5", "lines": ["He smiled, advanced, and sat before the board;", "With barsom held, Bandvi approached his lord."]}, {"id": "E6.29.6", "lines": ["The Shah began the mealtime prayer’s low drone,", "And with the sages murmured, tone for tone."]}, {"id": "E6.29.7", "lines": ["When Niyatus saw this, he spurned the bread,", "And, in disgust, stood up and spoke instead."]}, {"id": "E6.29.8", "lines": ["“The Cross and heathen murmurs mock our King!”", "He cried, to make the hall with insult ring."]}, {"id": "E6.29.9", "lines": ["Then Bandvi rose, defending Iran’s grace,", "And struck the Roman lord across the face!"]}, {"id": "E6.29.10", "lines": ["Khosrow was grieved to see the sudden shame;", "His cheeks grew pale as grief upon him came."]}, {"id": "E6.29.11", "lines": ["He said to Gostaham, “This valiant fool", "Should not let wine make strife his guiding rule."]}, {"id": "E6.29.12", "lines": ["What business had he with that Roman lord?", "He shamed himself today before the board.”"]}, {"id": "E6.29.13", "lines": ["Niyatus left and mounted, flushed with wine,", "Returned to camp with anger as his sign."]}, {"id": "E6.29.14", "lines": ["He donned his Roman jowshan, thought that day", "To wreck the feast and sweep its peace away."]}, {"id": "E6.29.15", "lines": ["All the Roman horsemen, prepared for fight,", "Turned toward the Shah’s court armed in open sight."]}, {"id": "E6.29.16", "lines": ["Niyatus sent a Roman rider on,", "While rage within him burned and peace was gone:"]}, {"id": "E6.29.17", "lines": ["“Bandvi the worthless, with a shameful blow,", "Has struck God’s servant; this you surely know."]}, {"id": "E6.29.18", "lines": ["Send him to me; if not, await the cry", "Of tumult, rising dark against the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.29.19", "lines": ["You shall fare worse from me than from that slave", "Who seeks the throne his proud ambitions crave.”"]}, {"id": "E6.29.20", "lines": ["Khosrow grew angry at the Roman’s claim:", "“No man should hide God’s Faith for fear of blame."]}, {"id": "E6.29.21", "lines": ["From Kioumars through Jamshid’s royal days", "To Kay Qobad, our fathers kept their ways."]}, {"id": "E6.29.22", "lines": ["None spoke of Christ; God keep me from the way", "Of casting my forefathers’ creed away."]}, {"id": "E6.29.23", "lines": ["Those holy Shahs upheld my fathers’ creed;", "I shall not change my Faith for foreign need."]}, {"id": "E6.29.24", "lines": ["Shall I omit my prayer at meals and be", "A Christian now? Such shame is not for me."]}, {"id": "E6.29.25", "lines": ["Your reckoning is crooked; you should know", "I saw Rum’s prowess when we faced the foe.”"]}, {"id": "E6.29.26", "lines": ["Then Maryam spoke to Khosrow: “Let me go;", "I will abate this quarrel and its woe."]}, {"id": "E6.29.27", "lines": ["Entrust illustrious Bandvi to my care,", "That Rum may see him, and its hurt repair."]}, {"id": "E6.29.28", "lines": ["I will restore him safe, without dispute;", "No wise man lets a quarrel take firm root.”"]}, {"id": "E6.29.29", "lines": ["The king sent Bandvi with ten riders bold,", "And Maryam, prudent, resolute, controlled."]}, {"id": "E6.29.30", "lines": ["Her lips were rich with counsel, calm and wise;", "She went to still the wrath before their eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.29.31", "lines": ["The Shah said, “To your uncle now relate", "These words of mine, to curb his wrath and hate:"]}, {"id": "E6.29.32", "lines": ["‘Have you not seen what Caesar did to bring", "Me help and strengthen my own rule as king?"]}, {"id": "E6.29.33", "lines": ["He gave me men and wealth and treasure-store;", "Why would you break the peace he labored for?"]}, {"id": "E6.29.34", "lines": ["Will you destroy affinity and pact,", "And strip me of his favor by this act?"]}, {"id": "E6.29.35", "lines": ["Did Caesar say that I would turn aside", "From Faith, once back in Iran to reside?"]}, {"id": "E6.29.36", "lines": ["Do you not know a noble keeps the creed", "Of ancient days? Let wiser thoughts now lead."]}, {"id": "E6.29.37", "lines": ["Take Bandvi to your breast; let anger cease,", "And speak no bitter words to mar this peace."]}, {"id": "E6.29.38", "lines": ["If he spoke ill of Rum’s religion then,", "Seek no great wisdom from such foolish men."]}, {"id": "E6.29.39", "lines": ["Say nothing harsh; do not now cast away", "What Caesar worked to build through many a day."]}, {"id": "E6.29.40", "lines": ["May God prevent your late remorse and rue;", "Remember what I speak in counsel true.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.29.41", "lines": ["The Shah pledged: “Bandvi’s days are almost run;", "My father’s murder haunts his grieving son:"]}, {"id": "E6.29.42", "lines": ["Once Rum departs, his blood shall pay the debt;", "The blinded Hormizd I do not forget!”"]}, {"id": "E6.29.43", "lines": ["She went and spoke this counsel, calm and wise;", "Her rose-bright cheeks brought pleasure to the eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.29.44", "lines": ["Niyatus found her counsel just and grave,", "And took to heart the measured words she gave."]}, {"id": "E6.29.45", "lines": ["His anger toward Bandvi grew faint and dim;", "Remorse and shame began to trouble him."]}, {"id": "E6.29.46", "lines": ["Appeased, he bade his treasurer unroll", "A gold-fringed robe, and brought a royal foal;"]}, {"id": "E6.29.47", "lines": ["He clad proud Bandvi, smiling face to face,", "And rode with him to the Shah’s farr-lit place."]}, {"id": "E6.29.48", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw him, “No good thought,” he said,", "“Will guide a man by grudging feelings led."]}, {"id": "E6.29.49", "lines": ["Bandvi has stirred this tumult, strife, and blame;", "Yet darken not the world with anger’s flame."]}, {"id": "E6.29.50", "lines": ["Do not fling Caesar’s toil upon the air;", "Let me one moment’s joy and quiet share.”"]}, {"id": "E6.29.51", "lines": ["Niyatus said, “O Shah, why seek to find", "Sound wisdom in a drunken Roman’s mind?"]}, {"id": "E6.29.52", "lines": ["Keep to your fathers’ Faith throughout your days;", "The wise do not forsake ancestral ways.”"]}, {"id": "E6.29.53", "lines": ["When words enough had passed on either side,", "He turned, and back to camp at last did ride."]}, {"id": "E6.30.1", "lines": ["The Shah bade Kharrad Barzin take command:", "“Prepare the muster; call the clerks to hand."]}, {"id": "E6.30.2", "lines": ["Let Rum’s assembled legions, old and new,", "Receive the treasury pay that they are due."]}, {"id": "E6.30.3", "lines": ["Let no man suffer hardship through this pay;", "Disburse it so no grievance mars the day."]}, {"id": "E6.30.4", "lines": ["For all whose prowess earned a robe of grace,", "Prepare rich honors suited to their place."]}, {"id": "E6.30.5", "lines": ["Bring splendid steeds from my own royal court,", "And fit rewards for every noble sort.”"]}, {"id": "E6.30.6", "lines": ["To Niyatus went steeds, a jeweled hoard,", "Attendants, golden girdles for a lord."]}, {"id": "E6.30.7", "lines": ["The gifts surpassed all measure; by their grace,", "Niyatus rose above the chiefs in place."]}, {"id": "E6.30.8", "lines": ["All cities Qobad took from Roman hands,", "Or Hormizd won, or Anooshirvan’s bands,"]}, {"id": "E6.30.9", "lines": ["He gave to Niyatus with patents clear,", "And made old bitterness turn sweet and dear."]}, {"id": "E6.30.10", "lines": ["The cup of colocynth with honey filled;", "Old rancor softened as the monarch willed."]}, {"id": "E6.30.11", "lines": ["The Roman legions, homeward bound, then went", "To Rum, that thriving land of their descent."]}, {"id": "E6.30.12", "lines": ["Great Khosrow rode two stages at their side,", "Then bade Niyatus farewell and turned aside."]}, {"id": "E6.30.13", "lines": ["He turned back, and the following week he chose", "Ten shrewd and loyal horsemen, tried by foes."]}, {"id": "E6.30.14", "lines": ["He left the camp and rode with reverent heart", "Toward Azargashasp’s holy shrine apart."]}, {"id": "E6.30.15", "lines": ["When he beheld the dome, he left his steed,", "With tear-filled eyes and cheeks grown pale with need."]}, {"id": "E6.30.16", "lines": ["Afoot he came before the sacred blaze;", "His face was veiled in tears before its rays."]}, {"id": "E6.30.17", "lines": ["All week he read the Zand-Avesta’s lore,", "And circled round the Fire, his heart still sore."]}, {"id": "E6.30.18", "lines": ["He left upon the eighth day of his stay;", "The feast of Sadeh was not far away."]}, {"id": "E6.30.19", "lines": ["As promised in the presence of his lords,", "He gave his coins, his jewels, gems, and hoards,"]}, {"id": "E6.30.20", "lines": ["Both gold and silver fit for monarch’s hand,", "To that bright Fire, the glory of the land."]}, {"id": "E6.30.21", "lines": ["He gave the poor rich silver from his store;", "None in that land was cheerless anymore."]}, {"id": "E6.30.22", "lines": ["Then to great Tisfoon the Shah made his way,", "To take his portion in the joyful day:"]}, {"id": "E6.30.23", "lines": ["In fair Asbanbar, on imperial ground,", "The finest seat that mortal men had found,"]}, {"id": "E6.30.24", "lines": ["Within the palace Anooshirvan made,", "Where once the king in royal splendor stayed,"]}, {"id": "E6.30.25", "lines": ["He had its splendid chambers decked and lit,", "And set the golden throne where he would sit."]}, {"id": "E6.30.26", "lines": ["The conquering, God-fearing monarch came,", "And took his grandfather’s high seat of fame."]}, {"id": "E6.30.27", "lines": ["He summoned scribe and Mobad to his side,", "The latter keen of mind, a learned guide."]}, {"id": "E6.30.28", "lines": ["For lords of Iran, patents were prepared,", "As mighty Shahs had done, their will declared."]}, {"id": "E6.30.29", "lines": ["Bandvi, experienced, generous, and wise,", "Oversaw these affairs with watchful eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.30.30", "lines": ["To Gostaham he gave Khorasan’s land,", "To guard the borders and to hold command;"]}, {"id": "E6.30.31", "lines": ["Burzmehr gave counsel; wisdom lent him grace,", "A worldly scribe with fair and noble face."]}, {"id": "E6.30.32", "lines": ["Since heaven favored him, the king conferred", "Istakhr and Darabgird by sealed word."]}, {"id": "E6.30.33", "lines": ["He pressed his golden signet to the page,", "And sent Ram Barzin riding, stage by stage."]}, {"id": "E6.30.34", "lines": ["He bade him bear it straight to brave Shapur,", "With slaves and robes of honor rich and pure."]}, {"id": "E6.30.35", "lines": ["He sent to Andiyan a patent sealed,", "In which his worth and province stood revealed."]}, {"id": "E6.30.36", "lines": ["He gave him Kerman, rich in field and town,", "Because he judged him worthy of renown."]}, {"id": "E6.30.37", "lines": ["To Gordvi he assigned broad Rey to hold,", "With governance and patents sealed in gold;"]}, {"id": "E6.30.38", "lines": ["He gave Balvi the town of Chakh beside,", "With patent and an ivory throne of pride."]}, {"id": "E6.30.39", "lines": ["The treasury keys he counted in that hour,", "And gave Tukhar’s son both their charge and power."]}, {"id": "E6.30.40", "lines": ["That ended, then the monarch faced the crowd,", "And spoke his will to every chief aloud:"]}, {"id": "E6.30.41", "lines": ["“All chiefs shall heed Kharrad Barzin’s behest;", "His will shall have its force from east to west."]}, {"id": "E6.30.42", "lines": ["His name shall stand inscribed on every deed,", "On every patent issued and decreed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.30.43", "lines": ["The soldiers who had stood beside the throne", "Received rich robes of honor as their own."]}, {"id": "E6.30.44", "lines": ["He sent them out as rulers of the realm,", "With frontier districts also at their helm."]}, {"id": "E6.30.45", "lines": ["A shrewd, well-spoken chief proclaimed the word;", "Throughout the realm his sweet, strong voice was heard:"]}, {"id": "E6.30.46", "lines": ["“O subjects of the Shah, let justice raise", "From all your lips its blessing and its praise."]}, {"id": "E6.30.47", "lines": ["Seek no revenge; from bloodshed turn away;", "Lead none to evil, lest your footsteps stray."]}, {"id": "E6.30.48", "lines": ["If subjects suffer from a soldier’s hand,", "The guilty man shall hang at my command."]}, {"id": "E6.30.49", "lines": ["The world to come holds fire and torment’s rod;", "The sinner there shall answer twice to God."]}, {"id": "E6.30.50", "lines": ["You are all lords of treasure fairly won", "By proper toil beneath the turning sun."]}, {"id": "E6.30.51", "lines": ["Enjoy and give, all you whom wealth has blessed;", "The poor may come to me with their request."]}, {"id": "E6.30.52", "lines": ["I bade my treasurer clothe the poor and feed", "All those who have no wealth to meet their need."]}, {"id": "E6.30.53", "lines": ["At morning, when a man has need to dine,", "The royal stores shall grant three man of wine,"]}, {"id": "E6.30.54", "lines": ["Provided that he bless the king whose care", "Keeps earth well tended, prosperous, and fair.”"]}, {"id": "E6.30.55", "lines": ["A king who acts like this deserves more praise", "Than learned men who live in godless ways."]}, {"id": "E6.31.1", "lines": ["At sixty-five, why should my hand sustain", "This weary toil over ancient kings in vain?"]}, {"id": "E6.31.2", "lines": ["Let me impress that lesson on my mind,", "And mourn the dear son who left me behind."]}, {"id": "E6.31.3", "lines": ["My turn had come, and yet the youth has flown;", "I stay in sorrow, soulless and alone."]}, {"id": "E6.31.4", "lines": ["I hasten, hoping I may overtake", "My son, and speak reproach for longing’s sake:"]}, {"id": "E6.31.5", "lines": ["“My turn it was to go, not yours, my son;", "Why leave me here, and my slow steps outrun?"]}, {"id": "E6.31.6", "lines": ["You shared my weary labors, page by page;", "Why leave your fellow traveler in his age?"]}, {"id": "E6.31.7", "lines": ["Did you find younger comrades on your way,", "And hurry on ahead without delay?”"]}, {"id": "E6.31.8", "lines": ["At thirty-seven, youth still crowned his head", "When life denied his wishes and he fled."]}, {"id": "E6.31.9", "lines": ["He proved a harsh companion on the road;", "He turned in anger, leaving me my load."]}, {"id": "E6.31.10", "lines": ["He went, but left his sorrows in my breast,", "My heart blood-filled, my weeping eyes oppressed."]}, {"id": "E6.31.11", "lines": ["He now has reached the light; there he will find", "A dwelling for the sire he left behind."]}, {"id": "E6.31.12", "lines": ["Since then a weary time has passed away,", "Yet none who shared his road comes back this way."]}, {"id": "E6.31.13", "lines": ["Indeed, he looks for me in wrath, I know,", "Because I linger still and move so slow."]}, {"id": "E6.31.14", "lines": ["At sixty-five I linger under heaven;", "He left this world when only thirty-seven."]}, {"id": "E6.31.15", "lines": ["He hastened on; I linger here behind.", "What fruit from all our deeds are we to find?"]}, {"id": "E6.31.16", "lines": ["May God illuminate your soul with light;", "May wisdom be its armor, firm and bright."]}, {"id": "E6.31.17", "lines": ["May He forgive each fault you bore below,", "And make your dark abode with radiance glow."]}, {"id": "E6.32.1", "lines": ["Tell ancient tales; let Bahram’s name arise,", "Chubin, whose warlike splendor filled all eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.32.2", "lines": ["When Bahram reached the Turks’ domain, he came", "Among their chiefs and lords of noble name."]}, {"id": "E6.32.3", "lines": ["To greet him at the Khan’s express commands,", "Ten thousand horsemen rode in ordered bands."]}, {"id": "E6.32.4", "lines": ["The Khan’s own son and brother led the way,", "With Turkic elders guiding that array."]}, {"id": "E6.32.5", "lines": ["When Bahram reached Chin’s ruler on his throne,", "In word and deed he made his praises known."]}, {"id": "E6.32.6", "lines": ["The Khan beheld him, rose, and kissed his face,", "Then stroked his cheeks with tenderness and grace."]}, {"id": "E6.32.7", "lines": ["He asked about the road, its dust and strain,", "The battle’s toil, the Shah, the marching train."]}, {"id": "E6.32.8", "lines": ["He welcomed Izad Gashasp to his hall,", "And Yalan-sina, and their comrades all."]}, {"id": "E6.32.9", "lines": ["He sat upon the silver throne, and then", "Clasped hands with him who ruled the Turkish men."]}, {"id": "E6.32.10", "lines": ["“O glorious prince, who rules the Turkish line,", "And holds the realm of Chin by royal sign,"]}, {"id": "E6.32.11", "lines": ["You know no man can dwell in peace or rest,", "While Khosrow Parviz keeps the world oppressed."]}, {"id": "E6.32.12", "lines": ["He vexes all who seek release from care,", "And turns their ease to grief they cannot bear."]}, {"id": "E6.32.13", "lines": ["If you receive me, keep me by your side;", "Through good and ill, let your strong hand be guide."]}, {"id": "E6.32.14", "lines": ["Within this priceless land I will remain,", "Your comrade through delight as much as pain."]}, {"id": "E6.32.15", "lines": ["But if through me some grief should strike your gate,", "I will depart and seek another fate."]}, {"id": "E6.32.16", "lines": ["If you reject the alliance I have planned,", "I shall depart and seek Hindustan’s land.”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.17", "lines": ["The Khan replied, “Great chief, may no such day", "Compel your feet to take that foreign way."]}, {"id": "E6.32.18", "lines": ["I hold you as my kin, yet love you more", "Than any child of mine whom I adore."]}, {"id": "E6.32.19", "lines": ["My whole domain will join in this accord,", "From humblest liege to every ruling lord."]}, {"id": "E6.32.20", "lines": ["Above all chiefs I raise you in renown;", "You need not seek their favor, nor bow down.”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.21", "lines": ["Then Bahram asked an oath, a bond to gain;", "Yet on his life he sought a harmful chain."]}, {"id": "E6.32.22", "lines": ["The Khan said, “By high God, our guide and friend,", "I stand with you until my life shall end."]}, {"id": "E6.32.23", "lines": ["While I draw breath, in good and ill the same,", "Your friend I stay, bound fast by oath and name.”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.24", "lines": ["They furnished two great palaces, each room", "With vessels, couches, fabrics from the loom."]}, {"id": "E6.32.25", "lines": ["They filled them full with servants, food, and clothes,", "With carpets fit for princely, calm repose."]}, {"id": "E6.32.26", "lines": ["Gold plate and silver vessels gleamed in rows,", "With gems and golden coins where treasure grows."]}, {"id": "E6.32.27", "lines": ["The Khan sent all to Bahram; his dark mind", "Grew bright beneath such favor, rich and kind."]}, {"id": "E6.32.28", "lines": ["At polo, feast, assembly, field, and chase,", "He praised him still and kept him near his place."]}, {"id": "E6.32.29", "lines": ["The Khan possessed one chief, his fortress-tower,", "His help in war, the pillar of his power."]}, {"id": "E6.32.30", "lines": ["Makatura, nobler born, had earned a name;", "Through him the Khan had won success and fame."]}, {"id": "E6.32.31", "lines": ["Each dawn he came before the throne’s high place,", "With fingers pressed to lips before his face."]}, {"id": "E6.32.32", "lines": ["He offered humble praise, as subjects do", "Before a lord to whom respect is due."]}, {"id": "E6.32.33", "lines": ["Each dawn a thousand dinars he would claim", "From treasures of the Khan of ancient fame."]}, {"id": "E6.32.34", "lines": ["For many days Chubin observed the deed,", "Astonished by such appetite and greed."]}, {"id": "E6.32.35", "lines": ["At last he laughed and said, “Exalted king,", "You rule among the lords of everything."]}, {"id": "E6.32.36", "lines": ["Yet every morning at your audience door,", "This Turk comes in and carries off your store."]}, {"id": "E6.32.37", "lines": ["If this is what you give him for his pay,", "All gold within the mine will pass his way.”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.38", "lines": ["The Khan replied, “Such is our custom here;", "It lends our Faith the honor we revere."]}, {"id": "E6.32.39", "lines": ["The man most brave in war, most firm in need,", "Receives the greater bounty for his deed."]}, {"id": "E6.32.40", "lines": ["His strength exceeds my own; with gold I charm", "His temper and preserve the realm from harm."]}, {"id": "E6.32.41", "lines": ["If I withhold his gold, the troops will rise,", "And turn the daylight dark before my eyes.”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.42", "lines": ["Chubin, seeker of the world, replied,", "“You made him insolent and swelled his pride."]}, {"id": "E6.32.43", "lines": ["When valiant Shahs keep watch upon their throne,", "No servant rules the realm as though his own."]}, {"id": "E6.32.44", "lines": ["Would you be freed from him, or must he still", "Be shown especial honor by your will?”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.45", "lines": ["The Khan replied, “Command and counsel blend;", "You have my leave to bring this to an end."]}, {"id": "E6.32.46", "lines": ["If you can free me from his hold, then all", "This talk is ended here within my hall.”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.47", "lines": ["Chubin said, “When he comes, as dawn comes on,", "To ask for gold, let every smile be gone."]}, {"id": "E6.32.48", "lines": ["Ignore him; give no answer to his claim;", "If you reply, let anger speak your blame.”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.49", "lines": ["That night passed on; when dawn began to stir,", "The haughty Makatura came to confer."]}, {"id": "E6.32.50", "lines": ["The lord of Chin would neither see nor hear", "The warrior’s speech, though he was standing near."]}, {"id": "E6.32.51", "lines": ["The Turk grew fierce and, in his anger, cried,", "“Why am I treated thus and cast aside?"]}, {"id": "E6.32.52", "lines": ["This prince of Iran, lord, with thirty friends,", "Would turn your rule to serve his wrongful ends."]}, {"id": "E6.32.53", "lines": ["He seeks to turn you from the just and true,", "And bring your gathered troops to ruin too.”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.54", "lines": ["Chubin answered, “Warrior, why this heat?", "Why rage in talk before the royal seat?"]}, {"id": "E6.32.55", "lines": ["If the Khan honors counsel and accord,", "You shall not drain each morning’s royal hoard."]}, {"id": "E6.32.56", "lines": ["Though you are worth three hundred horse in fight,", "And hunt war’s lions with your utmost might,"]}, {"id": "E6.32.57", "lines": ["Such prowess cannot earn you leave each day", "To bear great loads of royal gold away.”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.58", "lines": ["When Makatura heard, his anger burned;", "Against Bahram Chubin his vengeance turned."]}, {"id": "E6.32.59", "lines": ["He drew a shaft: “Accept this dart from me;", "Tomorrow’s strife its fellow shaft shall see:"]}, {"id": "E6.32.60", "lines": ["When you appear before the royal sight,", "My whistling bow shall end your days in flight!”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.61", "lines": ["Chubin reached down and loosed his sword of pride,", "And gave it to the chieftain at his side:"]}, {"id": "E6.32.62", "lines": ["“Keep this sharp blade; observe its tempered steel:", "Tomorrow’s dawn its brother’s edge shall feel!”"]}, {"id": "E6.32.63", "lines": ["Then Makatura left the Khan’s high seat,", "And reached his own pavilion, swift of feet."]}, {"id": "E6.33.1", "lines": ["Night drew its somber skirt away from sight;", "Dawn from the darkened mountain shed its light."]}, {"id": "E6.33.2", "lines": ["Makatura armed himself for fight,", "With Turkish sword and coat of armor bright."]}, {"id": "E6.33.3", "lines": ["When Bahram heard, he called for steed and plate,", "And armed himself to meet the warrior’s fate."]}, {"id": "E6.33.4", "lines": ["They chose a waterless and rocky place", "Where no wild leopard’s claws had left a trace."]}, {"id": "E6.33.5", "lines": ["The Khan, on hearing, mounted with his train,", "And rode with loyal Turks across the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.33.6", "lines": ["They came to learn which lion of the two", "Would first meet death before the fight was through."]}, {"id": "E6.33.7", "lines": ["Makatura reached the chosen ground,", "And drove the dust in clouds that wheeled around."]}, {"id": "E6.33.8", "lines": ["He shouted then to proud Chubin’s face,", "“What now of manhood in this battle-place?"]}, {"id": "E6.33.9", "lines": ["Will you begin, or shall the Turk begin,", "The loyal lion-heart who fights to win?”"]}, {"id": "E6.33.10", "lines": ["Chubin answered, “You begin the fight,", "For you first stirred this quarrel into spite.”"]}, {"id": "E6.33.11", "lines": ["Then Makatura sneered with wrath and tied", "The notched bowstring on either horn with pride."]}, {"id": "E6.33.12", "lines": ["He grasped the string with joy and drew his bow,", "And shot his mail-clad Iranian foe."]}, {"id": "E6.33.13", "lines": ["His arrow struck the horseman on the belt,", "But jowshan turned the blow the iron dealt."]}, {"id": "E6.33.14", "lines": ["Chubin held his ground and stood apart,", "To let that raging bowman spend his art."]}, {"id": "E6.33.15", "lines": ["Makatura thought Chubin was dead,", "And shouting, from the field of battle sped."]}, {"id": "E6.33.16", "lines": ["“O warrior,” Bahram cried, “you have not slain", "This man; do not depart across the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.33.17", "lines": ["You spoke; now hear my answer, blow for blow;", "If you survive its message, you may go.”"]}, {"id": "E6.33.18", "lines": ["He chose a shaft to pierce the armor through;", "Before it, stone and iron softened too."]}, {"id": "E6.33.19", "lines": ["Through spine and mail the bodkin arrow sped,", "And pinned him to the saddle-tree stone-dead;"]}, {"id": "E6.33.20", "lines": ["For he had lashed his feet before the fight,", "Vowing never to turn his horse in flight:"]}, {"id": "E6.33.21", "lines": ["Now lifeless on the mane his head was thrown,", "Upright in death, as motionless as stone!"]}, {"id": "E6.33.22", "lines": ["Then Bahram told the Khan, “The chief lies dead;", "He needs a gravedigger to make his bed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.33.23", "lines": ["The Khan replied, “Look closer; there he lies", "Alive, asleep before our very eyes.”"]}, {"id": "E6.33.24", "lines": ["Chubin said, “O mighty sovereign, no;", "His body even now to dust must go."]}, {"id": "E6.33.25", "lines": ["May all your foes sleep thus in saddle-seat,", "Upon Turanian horses in defeat.”"]}, {"id": "E6.33.26", "lines": ["The brave Khan sent a horseman to survey", "That famed lion, who lay not far away."]}, {"id": "E6.33.27", "lines": ["He found him bound and lifeless on his horse;", "For him the turning sky had run its course."]}, {"id": "E6.33.28", "lines": ["The Khan then laughed, with secret joy at heart,", "Astonished by that horseman’s deadly art."]}, {"id": "E6.33.29", "lines": ["Then thoughtful, to his palace he drew near;", "His crown in joy reached Saturn’s lofty sphere."]}, {"id": "E6.33.30", "lines": ["He called for arms and silver, slaves and steeds,", "A royal crown and throne for noble deeds."]}, {"id": "E6.33.31", "lines": ["He called for dinars, gems of royal worth,", "And every kind of war-gear on the earth."]}, {"id": "E6.33.32", "lines": ["The Khan’s envoy conveyed the royal load;", "With Chubin’s treasurer the whole was stowed."]}, {"id": "E6.34.1", "lines": ["Time passed in peace; the seasons came and went;", "At ease, Bahram lived far from strife, content."]}, {"id": "E6.34.2", "lines": ["Within the hills were beasts beyond all count,", "And one grim monster haunted peak and mount."]}, {"id": "E6.34.3", "lines": ["Its bulk surpassed a horse upon the plain,", "With two black cable-locks that formed its mane."]}, {"id": "E6.34.4", "lines": ["Its hide was tawny; ears and mouth were black,", "And none who saw it dared a close attack."]}, {"id": "E6.34.5", "lines": ["It showed itself amid the heat of day,", "With lion-claws to seize and rend its prey."]}, {"id": "E6.34.6", "lines": ["Its dreadful roar rose past the clouds on high;", "The land lay stricken as its cries went by."]}, {"id": "E6.34.7", "lines": ["The people called the creature Lion-Ape;", "Its ravages had left no hope of escape."]}, {"id": "E6.34.8", "lines": ["The Khan possessed a daughter like the moon,", "Before whose face the garden-rose would swoon."]}, {"id": "E6.34.9", "lines": ["Her garnet lips smiled red; her eyes, in shade,", "Were somber as narcissi in a glade."]}, {"id": "E6.34.10", "lines": ["Her parents feared the sunlight’s very touch,", "And trembled lest its rays should harm her much."]}, {"id": "E6.34.11", "lines": ["One day she wandered out upon the plain,", "While the Khan hunted with his royal train."]}, {"id": "E6.34.12", "lines": ["The noble Khatoon sat within her hall,", "With trusted counselors inside the wall."]}, {"id": "E6.34.13", "lines": ["The daughter took her damsels and her wine", "To meadows green, where springtime blossoms shine."]}, {"id": "E6.34.14", "lines": ["The Lion-Ape looked down from rocky height,", "Descended, drawing her by breath’s fierce might."]}, {"id": "E6.34.15", "lines": ["It swallowed her; her fleeting life had fled;", "Her moon-bright life was gone, the princess dead."]}, {"id": "E6.34.16", "lines": ["The Khan heard, then blackened his face in grief;", "The queen tore out her hair beyond relief."]}, {"id": "E6.34.17", "lines": ["Long did they grieve as if in burning fire,", "Consumed by loss, revenge, and fierce desire."]}, {"id": "E6.34.18", "lines": ["They sought to slay the beast and free the land,", "And lift Chin’s sorrow with a healing hand."]}, {"id": "E6.34.19", "lines": ["When Bahram slew Makatura, renowned,", "The queen sought out the chief with triumph crowned."]}, {"id": "E6.34.20", "lines": ["She told the court how fiercely he could fight,", "And praised the deeds accomplished by his might."]}, {"id": "E6.34.21", "lines": ["One day she saw him ride with lords of fame,", "A hundred men who out of Iran came."]}, {"id": "E6.34.22", "lines": ["With many footmen walking at his side,", "Brave Bahram rode together with a guide."]}, {"id": "E6.34.23", "lines": ["The queen then asked, “Who is this lofty one,", "With grace like heaven brightened by the sun?”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.24", "lines": ["A servant said, “You do not know him, then,", "If Bahram’s name is strange among our men."]}, {"id": "E6.34.25", "lines": ["He ruled Iran; his royal crest shone bright,", "Above the moon, beyond its silver light."]}, {"id": "E6.34.26", "lines": ["Chiefs call him Bahram, brave in war; his name", "Has seized the fame that kings of old could claim."]}, {"id": "E6.34.27", "lines": ["Now he has left Iran and come to Chin,", "The earth shakes where his thundering steed is seen."]}, {"id": "E6.34.28", "lines": ["Our sovereign holds him as his chosen chief,", "And crowns him high with honors past belief.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.29", "lines": ["She answered, “Since his grace is known to shine,", "We may take shelter under wings divine."]}, {"id": "E6.34.30", "lines": ["I too may ask a favor of his hand;", "He may avenge the grief that scars this land."]}, {"id": "E6.34.31", "lines": ["Unlike the Khan, he will not shrink away,", "But hear my grief and make the monster pay.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.32", "lines": ["The servant said, “Relate your grief and pain;", "No living trace of that beast shall remain."]}, {"id": "E6.34.33", "lines": ["You shall behold its body lying dead,", "Dragged by a wolf where once the monster fed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.34", "lines": ["She heard, rejoiced; her spirit, bowed with grief,", "Revived, as hope sprang up and brought relief."]}, {"id": "E6.34.35", "lines": ["She hastened to the Khan, her tale to share;", "He spoke of shame the tale would make him bear."]}, {"id": "E6.34.36", "lines": ["“A horseman such as I must bow my head", "To tell them how that beast has left her dead."]}, {"id": "E6.34.37", "lines": ["To tell this tale would cover me with shame,", "And stain the honor of my house and name."]}, {"id": "E6.34.38", "lines": ["Its breath could wrench an iron mountain free;", "They do not know how strong that breath could be."]}, {"id": "E6.34.39", "lines": ["Though royal daughters may be famed and dear,", "A king too holds his own life precious here.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.40", "lines": ["She said, “For her, my seeing eye, I claim", "Revenge, though it should bring me praise or shame."]}, {"id": "E6.34.41", "lines": ["Perhaps my words may reach the wished-for end,", "And justice on my grief may yet descend.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.42", "lines": ["Much time passed on; she kept the matter sealed,", "A secret plan to no one yet revealed."]}, {"id": "E6.34.43", "lines": ["At last the Khan prepared a royal feast,", "And summoned every noble, great and least."]}, {"id": "E6.34.44", "lines": ["He sent for valiant Bahram to attend,", "And set him on the silver throne as friend."]}, {"id": "E6.34.45", "lines": ["The queen behind her curtain heard him speak,", "And hastened forth, the hero there to seek."]}, {"id": "E6.34.46", "lines": ["She saw the hero, praised him, blessed his name,", "And spoke the wish for which at last she came."]}, {"id": "E6.34.47", "lines": ["She said, “May Chin and Turkistan through you", "Grow fortunate in all they seek and do."]}, {"id": "E6.34.48", "lines": ["I ask one favor; may my wish come true,", "And may I gain the boon for which I sue.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.49", "lines": ["He answered, “Speak; your wish shall be my will;", "Whatever you command, I shall fulfill.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.50", "lines": ["She said, “Nearby there lies a meadowland,", "A feasting-place with green on every hand."]}, {"id": "E6.34.51", "lines": ["The youths of Chin make merry there each spring,", "With wine and song and every pleasant thing."]}, {"id": "E6.34.52", "lines": ["A bowshot past the wood, your eyes behold", "A pitch-black mountain, hard and grim and cold."]}, {"id": "E6.34.53", "lines": ["Upon that flinty height there dwells a beast,", "That turns our joys to terror at each feast."]}, {"id": "E6.34.54", "lines": ["The people call it Lion-Ape; they know", "No other name for such a dreadful foe."]}, {"id": "E6.34.55", "lines": ["The Khan and I once had a daughter fair,", "A moon whose beauty brightened all the air."]}, {"id": "E6.34.56", "lines": ["She left the palace for that meadow bright,", "While the Khan hunted far beyond her sight."]}, {"id": "E6.34.57", "lines": ["The monster drew her in with deadly breath,", "My blooming child, my eye, and brought her death."]}, {"id": "E6.34.58", "lines": ["Now every spring it visits that green place,", "To search for prey and ruin every grace."]}, {"id": "E6.34.59", "lines": ["Our youths and Pahlevans have perished here;", "This beast has slain the men we held most dear."]}, {"id": "E6.34.60", "lines": ["By cruel havoc and its raging hand,", "It spread destruction through this lovely land."]}, {"id": "E6.34.61", "lines": ["Our brave horsemen in armed divisions go", "In numbers to that mountain and our foe."]}, {"id": "E6.34.62", "lines": ["But when they see its claws and giant breast,", "Its back, its shoulders, ears, and monstrous crest,"]}, {"id": "E6.34.63", "lines": ["It roars, and all their warrior hearts are torn;", "Their lion-courage breaks, and fear is born."]}, {"id": "E6.34.64", "lines": ["What elephant, nahang, or lion’s might", "Could stand before its dreadful strength in fight?"]}, {"id": "E6.34.65", "lines": ["No man who counts the cost will venture near,", "Or measure strength against that shape of fear.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.66", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin said, “Tomorrow’s dawn", "Will see me ride to view that pleasure-lawn."]}, {"id": "E6.34.67", "lines": ["By strength and might that God has granted me,", "The Maker of the sun and moon we see,"]}, {"id": "E6.34.68", "lines": ["I will relieve that meadow of its dread,", "If some at dawn will guide me where it fed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.69", "lines": ["When the moon’s disk rose silver in the sky,", "And night shook dusky locks abroad on high,"]}, {"id": "E6.34.70", "lines": ["The feast broke up; each went his separate way,", "Wine-flushed, toward palace chambers till the day."]}, {"id": "E6.34.71", "lines": ["When golden sunlight drove away the night,", "Brave Bahram armed his body for the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.34.72", "lines": ["He donned his gambeson, then said a prayer,", "Entrusting his own body to God’s care."]}, {"id": "E6.34.73", "lines": ["He took three arrows, bow, and hunting spear,", "Its point two-forked, with kamand for his gear."]}, {"id": "E6.34.74", "lines": ["When he drew near the height, he bade his train", "Turn back and leave him facing beast and plain."]}, {"id": "E6.34.75", "lines": ["As he approached the Lion-Ape’s abode,", "The mountain darkened round him on his road."]}, {"id": "E6.34.76", "lines": ["Among the flinty rocks he sat astride", "His horse; the kamand round his waist was tied."]}, {"id": "E6.34.77", "lines": ["He strung his bow, then called on God on high,", "The giver of all good beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.34.78", "lines": ["The Lion-Ape was wallowing in a pool;", "It rose soaked through, tremendous, grim, and cruel."]}, {"id": "E6.34.79", "lines": ["Its soaking hair no arrowhead could pierce;", "It rushed to gulp the hero, mad and fierce."]}, {"id": "E6.34.80", "lines": ["The monster roared and struck the flinty height;", "From out the rocks the sparks of fire flashed bright."]}, {"id": "E6.34.81", "lines": ["He loosed an arrow from his bow; then sped", "A second shaft that struck the monster’s head."]}, {"id": "E6.34.82", "lines": ["Blood poured like water down across its hide;", "He watched it charge with jaws spread open wide."]}, {"id": "E6.34.83", "lines": ["His third shaft struck its claw; with practiced haste,", "He then released the kamand round his waist."]}, {"id": "E6.34.84", "lines": ["He plunged his two-pronged zubin through its head,", "Wedge-deep into its throat, and dyed it red:"]}, {"id": "E6.34.85", "lines": ["He slit the monster’s maw and belly wide,", "To draw the princess from its gory hide;"]}, {"id": "E6.34.86", "lines": ["He sheared the giant head, then turned to tell", "The Khan and Khatoon how the great beast fell."]}, {"id": "E6.34.87", "lines": ["The Khan and queen, impatient, made their way", "From grove to mountain, where the slain beast lay."]}, {"id": "E6.34.88", "lines": ["The Khan embraced him, hailed him king aloud;", "The queen then kissed his hand, her thanks avowed."]}, {"id": "E6.34.89", "lines": ["Chin’s warriors shouted praise; the earth seemed stirred;", "They scattered gold and gems with every word."]}, {"id": "E6.34.90", "lines": ["The Khan returned; his envoy brought a hoard", "Of gifts and spoke the message of his lord."]}, {"id": "E6.34.91", "lines": ["A hundred purses filled with silver shone,", "With slaves and robes to make his favor known."]}, {"id": "E6.34.92", "lines": ["“You stand in honor here,” the message read;", "“Another daughter I would have you wed."]}, {"id": "E6.34.93", "lines": ["If you would take her hand, I grant to you", "My troops and country, to command them too.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.94", "lines": ["Then Bahram answered, “This is rightly done;", "A king commands his servants, every one.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.95", "lines": ["A scribe was called; on silk the grant was laid,", "A charter of the gift the Khan had made."]}, {"id": "E6.34.96", "lines": ["He gave his daughter then to be his bride;", "The realm obeyed his word on every side."]}, {"id": "E6.34.97", "lines": ["As custom called, they brought rich robes to wear,", "With crowns and belts of jeweled craft most rare."]}, {"id": "E6.34.98", "lines": ["The Khan told Bahram, “Give these gifts away", "To worthy men of Iran in your array.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.99", "lines": ["Then Bahram turned to banquet and the chase,", "Serene, secure in Fortune’s warm embrace."]}, {"id": "E6.34.100", "lines": ["The brave noble horsemen of Chin drew near,", "As suppliants before him, free of fear."]}, {"id": "E6.34.101", "lines": ["All Chin declared, “We are your slaves alone;", "Our lives and names are yours, and yours to own.”"]}, {"id": "E6.34.102", "lines": ["In feast and largess Bahram passed his days,", "While all the people joined to voice his praise."]}, {"id": "E6.35.1", "lines": ["So matters stood, until report had flown", "And stirred concern around Khosrow’s throne."]}, {"id": "E6.35.2", "lines": ["“His kingship and his wealth exceed your own;", "Without the toil, such fortune he has known.”"]}, {"id": "E6.35.3", "lines": ["Khosrow grew troubled, pierced by anxious flame,", "His heart wrung hard by Bahram’s rising name."]}, {"id": "E6.35.4", "lines": ["He called his nobles close and sought advice,", "And weighed each course with judgment most precise."]}, {"id": "E6.35.5", "lines": ["At night he called a scribe and shaped his pen,", "As if an arrow-point had served him then."]}, {"id": "E6.35.6", "lines": ["He wrote the Khan of Chin with royal art;", "One would have thought his pen could pierce the heart."]}, {"id": "E6.35.7", "lines": ["He praised first God, the One, the guide to light,", "Who lifts sun, moon, and Saturn into height."]}, {"id": "E6.35.8", "lines": ["He seats the kings, chastises evil deeds,", "And grants the sacred knowledge mankind needs."]}, {"id": "E6.35.9", "lines": ["By knowledge, ignorance, by right and wrong,", "Know God is One; to Him all powers belong."]}, {"id": "E6.35.10", "lines": ["He has no comrade, equal, peer, or mate;", "Who seeks the good shall find a worthy fate."]}, {"id": "E6.35.11", "lines": ["But may the man who turns his hand to ill", "Find no success to help his evil will."]}, {"id": "E6.35.12", "lines": ["Who chooses God’s clear way must turn away", "From thanklessness that leads the heart astray."]}, {"id": "E6.35.13", "lines": ["“He served the Shah with black ingratitude,", "Forgetting God and master in his mood."]}, {"id": "E6.35.14", "lines": ["He was obscure, of little weight or fame,", "Until my father raised his hidden name."]}, {"id": "E6.35.15", "lines": ["His conduct is well known throughout the state;", "No man of worth would greet him at his gate."]}, {"id": "E6.35.16", "lines": ["Yet you received him when he came to you,", "And took his hand with honor as his due."]}, {"id": "E6.35.17", "lines": ["To upright folk this act is hard to read,", "And I reject the judgment and the deed."]}, {"id": "E6.35.18", "lines": ["Do not uproot the honor of your name,", "Nor sell your peace for Bahram and his claim."]}, {"id": "E6.35.19", "lines": ["When this arrives, let counsel clear your night;", "Look well to profit and the path of right."]}, {"id": "E6.35.20", "lines": ["If you send us that slave in fetters bound,", "Your own advantage in this act is found."]}, {"id": "E6.35.21", "lines": ["If not, then troops from Iran shall advance,", "And darken all Turan with spear and lance.”"]}, {"id": "E6.35.22", "lines": ["The letter reached the Khan; he read its claim,", "And marked the wrath from which the message came."]}, {"id": "E6.35.23", "lines": ["He told the envoy, “Come to court at dawn;", "Ask for reply, the veil of night withdrawn.”"]}, {"id": "E6.35.24", "lines": ["The envoy hastened back; through all that night", "He watched until the sun poured out its light."]}, {"id": "E6.35.25", "lines": ["At sunrise, to the royal court he sped;", "The night of anxious waiting now had fled."]}, {"id": "E6.35.26", "lines": ["The Khan called for the silk, the musk, the scribe,", "Then wrote the answer honor would prescribe."]}, {"id": "E6.35.27", "lines": ["“From me, Your servant, let this praise ascend", "To You, Creator, Lord without an end."]}, {"id": "E6.35.28", "lines": ["Your letter I have read; your envoy too", "I seated here to hear the words from you."]}, {"id": "E6.35.29", "lines": ["Speak thus to slaves; your ancient house should know", "The rank of those to whom such letters go."]}, {"id": "E6.35.30", "lines": ["The great deserve the station of the great;", "The lowly have their own appointed state."]}, {"id": "E6.35.31", "lines": ["All Chin and all Turan obey my line;", "The Heytalian crown rests beneath my sign."]}, {"id": "E6.35.32", "lines": ["I never broke my faith; suggest it not,", "For broken pledges leave a deathless blot."]}, {"id": "E6.35.33", "lines": ["I took his hand; to break the pledged accord", "Would brand me base-born, an unworthy lord."]}, {"id": "E6.35.34", "lines": ["I fear but God; your greatness should be paired", "With greater wisdom than your words declared.”"]}, {"id": "E6.35.35", "lines": ["He sealed the letter, then addressed the man:", "“Ride with the wind, as swiftly as you can.”"]}, {"id": "E6.35.36", "lines": ["Within a month the envoy reached the court;", "The king grew fearful at the grim report."]}, {"id": "E6.35.37", "lines": ["He writhed beneath the turning sky’s intent,", "And for the chieftains of Iran he sent."]}, {"id": "E6.35.38", "lines": ["He told them what the Khan had written back,", "And showed them every word of his attack."]}, {"id": "E6.35.39", "lines": ["They read it through and mused in silence long,", "Then gave their monarch counsel wise and strong."]}, {"id": "E6.35.40", "lines": ["“O glory of the throne and crown of kings,", "Weigh well the burden that this message brings."]}, {"id": "E6.35.41", "lines": ["Letters alone cannot resolve this plight;", "Preserve your ancient farr, its guiding light."]}, {"id": "E6.35.42", "lines": ["Send wise Kharrad of Barzin to his court,", "A statesman famed for counsel and support:"]}, {"id": "E6.35.43", "lines": ["Dispatch him swiftly to the Khan’s domain,", "To counter Bahram’s plots and break his train."]}, {"id": "E6.35.44", "lines": ["Tell who Bahram was first, and what he sought", "When high command and power to him were brought."]}, {"id": "E6.35.45", "lines": ["His fortunes prospered; then this wretched knave", "Desired to make his sovereign lord his slave."]}, {"id": "E6.35.46", "lines": ["If this cannot be settled in one moon,", "Let him remain a year to seek the boon."]}, {"id": "E6.35.47", "lines": ["It will not be an easy task to shame", "The Khan’s own son-in-law and dim his name."]}, {"id": "E6.35.48", "lines": ["Speak well and often; keep the secret sealed,", "So that to no one is the plan revealed.”"]}, {"id": "E6.35.49", "lines": ["Then Bahram heard an envoy had arrived,", "With cunning letters Khosrow had contrived."]}, {"id": "E6.35.50", "lines": ["He told the Khan, “Khosrow, that man of guile,", "Sends letter after letter all the while."]}, {"id": "E6.35.51", "lines": ["Choose valiant troops from Chin to serve your hand;", "Through them you shall possess Iran’s rich land."]}, {"id": "E6.35.52", "lines": ["My sword shall conquer Rum and Iran’s domain,", "And crown you lord of every conquered plain."]}, {"id": "E6.35.53", "lines": ["Iranian coins shall bear your name in gold,", "While foreign princes tremble young and old:"]}, {"id": "E6.35.54", "lines": ["I shall strike off young Khosrow’s royal head,", "And leave the house of Sasan prone and dead!"]}, {"id": "E6.35.55", "lines": ["I gird myself to serve with one design:", "To tear the Sasanian root from throne and line.”"]}, {"id": "E6.35.56", "lines": ["The Khan heard this and pondered in his heart,", "A forest thick with thought in every part."]}, {"id": "E6.35.57", "lines": ["He summoned elders from throughout the land,", "The learned and eloquent of heart and hand."]}, {"id": "E6.35.58", "lines": ["He laid before them Bahram’s full design,", "And all the hidden matters, line by line."]}, {"id": "E6.35.59", "lines": ["The wise men answered, strangers, kin, and all,", "“This task is easy, yet no labor small."]}, {"id": "E6.35.60", "lines": ["But when Bahram leads troops to take the field,", "The course to follow will stand clear, revealed."]}, {"id": "E6.35.61", "lines": ["In Iran he will find many a friend,", "With you, his kin and ally, to defend."]}, {"id": "E6.35.62", "lines": ["Your Fortune may bring victory to view;", "We should accept the course he sets for you.”"]}, {"id": "E6.35.63", "lines": ["The Khan heard this; his heart revived again;", "He laughed, and pride returned before the men."]}, {"id": "E6.35.64", "lines": ["The warriors chose two youths of tested might,", "Fit to command and hardened well in fight."]}, {"id": "E6.35.65", "lines": ["In Chin lived noble Chinvi, known for worth,", "And Zangwi too, a chief of honored birth."]}, {"id": "E6.35.66", "lines": ["The Khan called both to sit and take their pay;", "The divan gave them dinars on that day."]}, {"id": "E6.35.67", "lines": ["He bade them both be watchful in the fray,", "Then gave the charge that both were to obey:"]}, {"id": "E6.35.68", "lines": ["“Watch Bahram, whether joy or wrath be near;", "Keep all the crossings of the Jihun clear.”"]}, {"id": "E6.35.69", "lines": ["He gave them lion-warriors, band on band;", "All famed in war, with strength at their command."]}, {"id": "E6.35.70", "lines": ["Bahram’s loud tabiras rang; dust rose high;", "The sun seemed ebony against the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.35.71", "lines": ["On Sapandarmad day he led his train", "And marched from Chin toward Iran’s domain."]}, {"id": "E6.36.1", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard, “The wolf has left the wood,", "And Bahram’s force dims heaven where it stood,”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.2", "lines": ["To Kharrad Barzin then the monarch said:", "“Leave home, and choose the road that lies ahead."]}, {"id": "E6.36.3", "lines": ["Go to the Khan of Chin and there relate", "Whatever words this matter may dictate."]}, {"id": "E6.36.4", "lines": ["Iran and Niran both to you are known;", "In eloquence your mastery is shown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.5", "lines": ["He opened then his treasury’s guarded hold,", "And brought forth gems and belts of worked gold."]}, {"id": "E6.36.6", "lines": ["He brought out swords; Kharrad, amazed, would stare,", "And called on God in words of secret prayer."]}, {"id": "E6.36.7", "lines": ["With gifts he journeyed toward the Khan’s abode;", "Then at the Jihun took another road."]}, {"id": "E6.36.8", "lines": ["When he drew near the Khan’s imposing gate,", "He chose a man his coming to relate."]}, {"id": "E6.36.9", "lines": ["“Announce,” he said, “an envoy from the king;", "He waits to see the Khan, with news to bring.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.10", "lines": ["The Khan, on hearing, took his throne in pride,", "And bade them bring the envoy to his side."]}, {"id": "E6.36.11", "lines": ["Kharrad approached and spoke his greeting clear,", "Then bowed with courtly reverence sincere."]}, {"id": "E6.36.12", "lines": ["He said, “Your servant asks your leave to speak", "At your command, and say the words you seek.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.13", "lines": ["The Khan replied, “Sweet speech makes old hearts young;", "Let useful words be spoken by your tongue."]}, {"id": "E6.36.14", "lines": ["Words spoken well are pith; if left unsaid,", "They are but peel, and all their life is dead.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.15", "lines": ["Then Kharrad called old histories to mind,", "And praised the Maker, lord of humankind."]}, {"id": "E6.36.16", "lines": ["He praised Yazdan, fate’s Lord, whose power gave birth", "To sky and time and all that fills the earth."]}, {"id": "E6.36.17", "lines": ["“All power is His, and we His servants stand;", "We speak His truth throughout this mortal land."]}, {"id": "E6.36.18", "lines": ["To one He grants the crown and royal station;", "Another He casts down in degradation."]}, {"id": "E6.36.19", "lines": ["Not that one man is loved, the next disdained;", "No man has fathomed what Yazdan ordained."]}, {"id": "E6.36.20", "lines": ["All men alike are born to turn to dust,", "And yield to death, as helpless mortals must."]}, {"id": "E6.36.21", "lines": ["Begin with royal Jamshid’s ancient name,", "Or Tahmuras, a sovereign crowned with fame."]}, {"id": "E6.36.22", "lines": ["Then pass to Kay Qobad and all the great,", "Whose names still stand in memory and fate."]}, {"id": "E6.36.23", "lines": ["Kay Khosrow, Rostam, and by equal sign,", "Esfandiyar, bright flower of royal line,"]}, {"id": "E6.36.24", "lines": ["All had a narrow tomb for their reward;", "In place of healing, poison’s draft was poured."]}, {"id": "E6.36.25", "lines": ["Our present Shah is of your kin by birth;", "His heart should join with yours in grief and mirth."]}, {"id": "E6.36.26", "lines": ["For Hormizd’s mother was a daughter born", "To ancient Khaqans whom your thrones adorn:"]}, {"id": "E6.36.27", "lines": ["Our bond of kinship now is knit and bound;", "Affairs no longer turn in their old round."]}, {"id": "E6.36.28", "lines": ["May He who grants all victory bless your name,", "And make kings’ heads the earth beneath your fame.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.29", "lines": ["He ceased. The Khan replied, “Your words reveal", "The ancient lore, the wares in which you deal."]}, {"id": "E6.36.30", "lines": ["If Iran holds another man like you,", "He is enough to give the heavens their due.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.31", "lines": ["The Khan made room upon his royal seat;", "He placed him near, with courtesy complete."]}, {"id": "E6.36.32", "lines": ["He bade the gifts and treasures be conveyed,", "And with the treasurer of Chin be laid."]}, {"id": "E6.36.33", "lines": ["The Khan said, “May your fortune never wane,", "Nor lack of wealth become your earthly pain."]}, {"id": "E6.36.34", "lines": ["If you will take a gift from me, then say;", "And I shall take these gifts you bring today."]}, {"id": "E6.36.35", "lines": ["If not, you shine more brightly than the gold,", "A crown of wisdom, noble to behold.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.36", "lines": ["They made for him a pleasant dwelling-place,", "And hung rich draperies throughout the space."]}, {"id": "E6.36.37", "lines": ["At board and chase, at feast and drinking-bout,", "He kept his place beside the Khan throughout."]}, {"id": "E6.36.38", "lines": ["He sought a chance and found the Khan one day", "At leisure, fit to hear what he would say."]}, {"id": "E6.36.39", "lines": ["Then Kharrad said, “Chubin is base at heart,", "Worse than dark Ahriman in wicked art."]}, {"id": "E6.36.40", "lines": ["He sells experienced men for paltry gain,", "For things too cheap to name without disdain."]}, {"id": "E6.36.41", "lines": ["King Hormizd first advanced him into light,", "And raised him by his favor out of night."]}, {"id": "E6.36.42", "lines": ["No man had even known that warrior’s name,", "And all he wished for in this world then came."]}, {"id": "E6.36.43", "lines": ["He broke with Hormizd, cast his oath away,", "And claimed that all Iran should now obey."]}, {"id": "E6.36.44", "lines": ["Though now he serves you with a kindly face,", "He will betray your covenant and grace."]}, {"id": "E6.36.45", "lines": ["He broke his pact with Iran’s king and turned", "From king and God, whose service he has spurned."]}, {"id": "E6.36.46", "lines": ["Send him to Khosrow; raise his head so high", "That it will pass the moon within the sky."]}, {"id": "E6.36.47", "lines": ["Then Chin and all Iran may both be yours,", "And you may dwell wherever joy endures.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.48", "lines": ["The Khan was stunned and answered, ill at ease,", "His gaze on Kharrad hardened by degrees."]}, {"id": "E6.36.49", "lines": ["He said: “Speak not such words before my face,", "Or you will lose my favor and my grace."]}, {"id": "E6.36.50", "lines": ["I will not break my oath or prove unjust;", "The oath-breaker shall have a shroud of dust.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.51", "lines": ["When Kharrad heard, he knew that every word", "Had missed its hour and would not now be heard."]}, {"id": "E6.36.52", "lines": ["He thought, “From Bahram comes his hope to reign", "In Iran; all my words meet his disdain.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.53", "lines": ["In black despair about the Khan, he turned", "Toward the queen’s house, while secret purpose burned."]}, {"id": "E6.36.54", "lines": ["He searched her suite for one to serve his role,", "And found a steward useful to his goal."]}, {"id": "E6.36.55", "lines": ["He privately revealed what Khosrow sought,", "And made the steward glad at what he brought."]}, {"id": "E6.36.56", "lines": ["Then Kharrad added, “Speak before the queen,", "That I may serve her as a scribe unseen.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.57", "lines": ["The crafty steward answered, “That will fail;", "He wed her daughter; you will not prevail."]}, {"id": "E6.36.58", "lines": ["He is her son-in-law, held close as kin;", "She guards his life and purpose safe within."]}, {"id": "E6.36.59", "lines": ["You are a scribe; devise a subtler scheme,", "And let no rumor rise around your theme.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.60", "lines": ["When Kharrad heard, he found no path to take,", "Nor saw what further plan his mind could make."]}, {"id": "E6.36.61", "lines": ["There lived an aged Turk, Kulun by name,", "Whom other Turks held low in scorn and shame."]}, {"id": "E6.36.62", "lines": ["He wore a coat of skins; on millet grain", "And kashk he fed through poverty and pain."]}, {"id": "E6.36.63", "lines": ["Makatura had been of Kulun’s blood,", "So hatred for Chubin surged in a flood."]}, {"id": "E6.36.64", "lines": ["He cursed him always, nursing vengeful thought,", "And kept revenge as treasure dearly bought."]}, {"id": "E6.36.65", "lines": ["Kharrad invited Kulun, bade him sit", "In honor’s place, as for a noble fit."]}, {"id": "E6.36.66", "lines": ["He gave him gold and silver, robes and cheer,", "And ranked him with the chiefs as though their peer."]}, {"id": "E6.36.67", "lines": ["Kharrad, extremely cautious, wise, and keen,", "Kept every risky movement still unseen."]}, {"id": "E6.36.68", "lines": ["He planned and counseled with the steward still", "About the queen, but hid from the Khan his will."]}, {"id": "E6.36.69", "lines": ["By night or day, before the royal seat,", "He kept his silence, cautious and discreet."]}, {"id": "E6.36.70", "lines": ["The aged steward said to Kharrad then,", "“A noble scribe, renowned among wise men,"]}, {"id": "E6.36.71", "lines": ["If versed in medicine and healing’s art,", "Would crown my lady’s hopes and ease her heart."]}, {"id": "E6.36.72", "lines": ["Chubin’s young bride lies sick; your healing proof", "Shall gain you entry underneath her roof.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.73", "lines": ["Kharrad replied, “That knowledge too is mine;", "As you advise, I shall pursue this line.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.74", "lines": ["The steward told the queen, “A healer waits”;", "She bade him enter through the inner gates."]}, {"id": "E6.36.75", "lines": ["The steward said, “Keep secret why you came;", "Go, heal her child, but do not give your name.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.76", "lines": ["Before the Khatoon’s eyes he viewed the maid,", "Whose liver burned, in dire need of aid:"]}, {"id": "E6.36.77", "lines": ["“Bring pomegranate juice,” he then decreed,", "“And streamside chicory, the herb we need.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.78", "lines": ["He sought to quell the fever in her head;", "Within a week, by God’s decree, it fled."]}, {"id": "E6.36.79", "lines": ["The girl grew radiant as the moon at night;", "The queen brought treasure forth in her delight."]}, {"id": "E6.36.80", "lines": ["A bag of dinars, five robes richly sewn", "Of gold brocade, she brought and made this known:"]}, {"id": "E6.36.81", "lines": ["“Accept this poor reward, and ask for more;", "Whatever you desire is in my store.”"]}, {"id": "E6.36.82", "lines": ["He said, “Keep these; I seek no gift today.", "When time allows, I shall name what you pay.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.1", "lines": ["Bahram Chubin arrayed his full command,", "Like pheasant wings, their colors crossed the land."]}, {"id": "E6.37.2", "lines": ["He marched to Marv; then word to Chin was brought,", "To keep from Khosrow news of what they sought."]}, {"id": "E6.37.3", "lines": ["“Let none from Chin or Turkistan pass through,", "To tell Khosrow what we intend to do."]}, {"id": "E6.37.4", "lines": ["For news of us would be a precious prize", "To Khosrow; let the roads be shut to spies.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.5", "lines": ["The Khan proclaimed, “Who goes to Iran’s land,", "Without my seal, shall fall beneath my hand."]}, {"id": "E6.37.6", "lines": ["No wealth shall buy him off from death or pain;", "By God, I cleave such rebels on the plain.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.7", "lines": ["For three months Kharrad Barzin waited, sealed", "In silence; not a secret he revealed."]}, {"id": "E6.37.8", "lines": ["Troubled, he sent for Kulun as his guest,", "And seated him in honor, richly dressed."]}, {"id": "E6.37.9", "lines": ["He said, “No one who dwells beneath the day", "Is free from secret sorrow on his way."]}, {"id": "E6.37.10", "lines": ["You often begged, at every door in Chin,", "For millet, bread, and skin, when times were lean."]}, {"id": "E6.37.11", "lines": ["But now your food is lamb and wholesome bread,", "And costly garments cover foot and head."]}, {"id": "E6.37.12", "lines": ["Compare your present with your former state,", "Past curses with the blessings of your fate."]}, {"id": "E6.37.13", "lines": ["Your years have reached a hundred, more or less,", "Yet I have fearful business to address."]}, {"id": "E6.37.14", "lines": ["Through it you may obtain a kingly crown,", "Or darkened dust may drag your body down."]}, {"id": "E6.37.15", "lines": ["I shall procure the Khan’s seal for your pass;", "Then cross the land as fire runs through the grass."]}, {"id": "E6.37.16", "lines": ["You must gain entrance where the chief resides,", "And bide your hour until the day decides."]}, {"id": "E6.37.17", "lines": ["Don your black coat; conceal this poisoned knife,", "Prepared to stake your fleeting, aged life."]}, {"id": "E6.37.18", "lines": ["Mark well Bahram day; keep that day in sight,", "And seek that lord, the world’s resplendent light."]}, {"id": "E6.37.19", "lines": ["That day lies heavy-omened in his mind;", "For years I marked the shadow of its kind."]}, {"id": "E6.37.20", "lines": ["He will not have a crowd about him then;", "In Chin’s brocade he keeps apart from men."]}, {"id": "E6.37.21", "lines": ["Say, ‘From the daughter of the Khan I bring", "A message for the proud and mighty king.’"]}, {"id": "E6.37.22", "lines": ["Keep your knife bare beneath your sleeve and wait,", "Until he draws you near his private gate."]}, {"id": "E6.37.23", "lines": ["When he admits you by yourself, then say:", "‘The noble lady sends these words today."]}, {"id": "E6.37.24", "lines": ["She said, “When you report into his ear,", "Hide every secret from all others near.”’"]}, {"id": "E6.37.25", "lines": ["When he shall ask, ‘What secret? Tell it plain,’", "Approach him swiftly; let no gap remain."]}, {"id": "E6.37.26", "lines": ["Strike through his belly; if you find a way,", "Then leap clear of the room without delay."]}, {"id": "E6.37.27", "lines": ["When they shall see his wound and hear his cry,", "The camp will shake; confusion will run high."]}, {"id": "E6.37.28", "lines": ["Some seek the stables, some the treasure-trove;", "Still others seek the rugs that weavers wove."]}, {"id": "E6.37.29", "lines": ["No one will think of you in such an hour,", "While fear breaks order and dissolves all power."]}, {"id": "E6.37.30", "lines": ["If they should kill you, you have seen the earth,", "And weighed its sorrows, pleasures, grief, and worth."]}, {"id": "E6.37.31", "lines": ["Yet truly none will care at such a time", "To harm you for the deed or trace the crime."]}, {"id": "E6.37.32", "lines": ["If you escape the slaying, you have bought", "The world itself by one courageous thought."]}, {"id": "E6.37.33", "lines": ["The conquering Shah will grant a city’s crown,", "And give you worldly share and high renown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.34", "lines": ["To Kharrad, old Kulun made this reply:", "“What further guide do I require, and why?"]}, {"id": "E6.37.35", "lines": ["A hundred years have passed above my head;", "How long must I endure this life of dread?"]}, {"id": "E6.37.36", "lines": ["My body and my soul I offer here;", "To ransom you, I hold my life less dear.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.37", "lines": ["When Kharrad heard, he hastened to the queen,", "And sought the promised boon behind her screen."]}, {"id": "E6.37.38", "lines": ["“My gracious lady, I now claim my boon;", "The thing I seek I shall reveal quite soon."]}, {"id": "E6.37.39", "lines": ["Some of my people on the farther side", "Are held in bonds, their liberty denied."]}, {"id": "E6.37.40", "lines": ["Be pleased to set my own feet free from need;", "Procure the Khan’s seal-imprint for this deed."]}, {"id": "E6.37.41", "lines": ["Know this: by doing so, you give me life,", "And cut me free from bondage, fear, and strife.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.42", "lines": ["She said, “He sleeps in wine; I can take clay,", "And press his signet’s image there today.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.43", "lines": ["She asked Kharrad for clay, then went inside,", "Then reached the sleeper’s couch with cautious stride."]}, {"id": "E6.37.44", "lines": ["She pressed the clay upon his signet’s face,", "Then left the sleeping Khan and quit the place."]}, {"id": "E6.37.45", "lines": ["She brought the imprint back and gave it then", "To Kharrad, subtle master of the pen."]}, {"id": "E6.37.46", "lines": ["The scribe gave thanks and took that clay-pressed sign,", "And gave it Kulun for their dark design."]}, {"id": "E6.37.47", "lines": ["Kulun received the seal and swiftly went,", "As though a pheasant’s wings to him were lent."]}, {"id": "E6.37.48", "lines": ["He came to Marv; there he would wait and stay", "Until the coming of Bahram day."]}, {"id": "E6.37.49", "lines": ["That day brought dread to Bahram’s troubled heart;", "He stayed at home, from field and men apart."]}, {"id": "E6.37.50", "lines": ["One slave attended him inside the room,", "Where fruits were set amid the chamber’s bloom."]}, {"id": "E6.37.51", "lines": ["Apples, quinces, pomegranates lay", "Before the chief throughout that fatal day."]}, {"id": "E6.37.52", "lines": ["Alone Kulun approached the outer gate,", "And spoke there to the porter, bent by fate."]}, {"id": "E6.37.53", "lines": ["“Sir, from the Khan’s own daughter, here I stand", "With word from her own home at her command."]}, {"id": "E6.37.54", "lines": ["I am no warrior, nor a man born free;", "The Khan’s own daughter sent these words with me."]}, {"id": "E6.37.55", "lines": ["That pious lady charged me to impart", "Her secrets to this chief alone, apart."]}, {"id": "E6.37.56", "lines": ["For her sake these must not be told aloud;", "No other ear may join the listening crowd."]}, {"id": "E6.37.57", "lines": ["She ails and bears a child; let me draw near", "The crowned sepahbod, so that he may hear."]}, {"id": "E6.37.58", "lines": ["Tell him that I may speak what she has willed,", "And leave her private message there fulfilled.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.59", "lines": ["The noble chamberlain made haste inside,", "And reached the room where Bahram would reside."]}, {"id": "E6.37.60", "lines": ["He said, “The princess’ messenger stands near,", "Clad in a ragged skin coat, to appear."]}, {"id": "E6.37.61", "lines": ["He says, ‘The Khan’s own daughter sent me here,", "To speak a private message in your ear.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.62", "lines": ["Bahram replied, “Let him stand near the door,", "And show his face before he tells me more.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.63", "lines": ["Kulun drew near; within the doorway’s space,", "He showed his head, his poor and aged face."]}, {"id": "E6.37.64", "lines": ["When Bahram saw that wretched, feeble man,", "He said, “Show any letter, if you can.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.65", "lines": ["Kulun replied, “I bear these words alone;", "No other ear may hear what I was shown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.66", "lines": ["Bahram said, “Come nearer; end this doubt;", "Speak in my ear and let the tale come out.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.67", "lines": ["Kulun drew close, the knife beneath his sleeve,", "His vengeful heart prepared to strike and leave."]}, {"id": "E6.37.68", "lines": ["He feigned a whisper, bent as if to speak,", "Then struck the navel, laying Bahram weak!"]}, {"id": "E6.37.69", "lines": ["A cry rose from the chamber into air;", "The people rushed to him in dread and care."]}, {"id": "E6.37.70", "lines": ["Bahram cried, “Seize that man without delay;", "Ask who has guided him upon this way.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.71", "lines": ["Then all within the palace rushed in wrath;", "They broke his leg and blocked the killer’s path."]}, {"id": "E6.37.72", "lines": ["The servants, furious, struck him with their fists,", "With palms and blows on face and arms and wrists."]}, {"id": "E6.37.73", "lines": ["From midday till midnight their blows would fall;", "He kept his lips shut, silent through it all."]}, {"id": "E6.37.74", "lines": ["When they had broken hands and feet with blows,", "They flung him in the court among his woes."]}, {"id": "E6.37.75", "lines": ["They gathered then in sorrow and dismay,", "About Chubin, still bleeding where he lay."]}, {"id": "E6.37.76", "lines": ["He still bled on and groaned in bitter pain;", "His cheeks turned lapis; life began to wane."]}, {"id": "E6.37.77", "lines": ["Gurdiyeh came in anguish to his bed;", "She tore her locks; her lap received his head."]}, {"id": "E6.37.78", "lines": ["She wailed, “Brave horseman, lion of the wood,", "Before your face the forest’s lion stood,"]}, {"id": "E6.37.79", "lines": ["Then fled. Who has removed the world’s tall stay?", "Who cast this mighty elephant away?"]}, {"id": "E6.37.80", "lines": ["Woe for the chief, the horseman known of old,", "Who won the world, quelled lions, brave and bold."]}, {"id": "E6.37.81", "lines": ["Who wounded you, the chief of mighty frame?", "He serves no king, nor honors God’s great name."]}, {"id": "E6.37.82", "lines": ["Who tore this mountain from the waters’ bed?", "Who felled the cypress with its lofty head?"]}, {"id": "E6.37.83", "lines": ["Who cast the crown of greatness to the ground?", "Who filled the sea with sudden dust all round?"]}, {"id": "E6.37.84", "lines": ["Who cast this moving mountain down so deep,", "Into a chasm, leaving us to weep?"]}, {"id": "E6.37.85", "lines": ["We live alone, despised in foreign lands,", "With no true helper and with empty hands."]}, {"id": "E6.37.86", "lines": ["I told you, captain of the band, beware;", "Do not uproot the sprout of loyal care."]}, {"id": "E6.37.87", "lines": ["Should but one daughter live of Sasan’s line,", "The land would serve her crown with light divine."]}, {"id": "E6.37.88", "lines": ["All Iran’s towns would answer her command,", "Nor turn from Sasan’s seed throughout the land."]}, {"id": "E6.37.89", "lines": ["Her blessed crown would touch the turning sky;", "You would not hear my counsel, though I cry."]}, {"id": "E6.37.90", "lines": ["You bring remorse before Yazdan of light,", "And bear a guilty soul beneath His sight."]}, {"id": "E6.37.91", "lines": ["Ill has befallen us; we are the sheep,", "Our enemies the wolves that prowl and leap.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.92", "lines": ["The wounded man heard all his sister said,", "And saw her heart, so wise, with grief had bled."]}, {"id": "E6.37.93", "lines": ["Her cheeks were torn by nails, her hair unbound,", "Her eyes and heart bled grief upon the ground."]}, {"id": "E6.37.94", "lines": ["Though faint and suffering, he loosed his tongue,", "And answered her while life within him clung."]}, {"id": "E6.37.95", "lines": ["“My noble sister, nothing could compare", "With all the wisdom of your faithful care."]}, {"id": "E6.37.96", "lines": ["The measure of my life is full and done;", "I did not take advice from anyone."]}, {"id": "E6.37.97", "lines": ["A Div-minded guide held me in his grip;", "From wisdom’s path he made my footing slip."]}, {"id": "E6.37.98", "lines": ["No king surpassed great Jamshid, far or near;", "Through him the world knew hope as well as fear."]}, {"id": "E6.37.99", "lines": ["Yet at the Divs’ urging he went wrong,", "And made his world grow black though he was strong."]}, {"id": "E6.37.100", "lines": ["So too with watchful Kay Kavus, once blessed,", "By Fortune favored over all the rest."]}, {"id": "E6.37.101", "lines": ["The loathsome Div’s advice corrupted him;", "You know the evils that made Fortune dim."]}, {"id": "E6.37.102", "lines": ["He mounted heavenward to search its frame,", "And track the sun and moon from where they came."]}, {"id": "E6.37.103", "lines": ["So too the Div corrupted heart and soul,", "And drew me far from goodness as my goal."]}, {"id": "E6.37.104", "lines": ["I now repent the evil I have done;", "May God forgive the darkness I have spun."]}, {"id": "E6.37.105", "lines": ["So destiny was written on my head;", "Why mourn the path that brings me to the dead?"]}, {"id": "E6.37.106", "lines": ["The water stands above my head; I see", "That grief and joy are wind alike to me."]}, {"id": "E6.37.107", "lines": ["What has been written now has come to be;", "No hand can add a word to Fate’s decree."]}, {"id": "E6.37.108", "lines": ["Your counsel is the keepsake I receive;", "Your words are earrings I would never leave."]}, {"id": "E6.37.109", "lines": ["Both right and wrong are over; do not call", "Your words again to mind beside my fall."]}, {"id": "E6.37.110", "lines": ["Turn now to God; spurn Fortune smiling bright;", "Tell none your grief or joy; keep both from sight."]}, {"id": "E6.37.111", "lines": ["My destined portion of the world is mine;", "The end has come; I leave the mortal line.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.112", "lines": ["To Yalan-sina then he gave command:", "“I leave this faithful army in your hand:"]}, {"id": "E6.37.113", "lines": ["Obey Gurdiyeh; let her counsel guide;", "A wiser counsel walks not by your side."]}, {"id": "E6.37.114", "lines": ["Part not from her; may no division rise", "Between you two beneath the turning skies."]}, {"id": "E6.37.115", "lines": ["Stay not for long within this hostile land;", "Go all to Khosrow; hear his own command."]}, {"id": "E6.37.116", "lines": ["If royal pardon grants you all a place,", "Serve him alone and seek no other grace."]}, {"id": "E6.37.117", "lines": ["Send Gordvi greetings; tell him of the blade", "That struck me here, and how the plot was laid."]}, {"id": "E6.37.118", "lines": ["In Iran make my tomb, my final bed;", "Pull down my palace when my life has fled."]}, {"id": "E6.37.119", "lines": ["Much grief I suffered, serving Chin’s great lord;", "Much praise he gave me as my due reward."]}, {"id": "E6.37.120", "lines": ["Was this the just return for all I gave,", "To send a Div to drive me to the grave?"]}, {"id": "E6.37.121", "lines": ["Yet should the Khan learn how this blow was wrought,", "His mind may founder, baffled and distraught."]}, {"id": "E6.37.122", "lines": ["No men but those of Iran shaped this plan,", "And took the Div as guide against their man.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.123", "lines": ["He called a scribe and had a letter made,", "In which these words before the Khan were laid:"]}, {"id": "E6.37.124", "lines": ["“Bahram Chubin has passed in shame and woe,", "His hopes brought down, his fortune lying low."]}, {"id": "E6.37.125", "lines": ["Be kind to those I leave, and shield them all", "From foes who seek to bring about their fall."]}, {"id": "E6.37.126", "lines": ["I never wronged you; I would go instead", "Wherever wisdom and right counsel led.”"]}, {"id": "E6.37.127", "lines": ["He counseled then his sister long and well,", "Embraced her head, and spoke his last farewell."]}, {"id": "E6.37.128", "lines": ["He pressed his lips beside her listening ear;", "His eyes filled up with blood as death drew near."]}, {"id": "E6.37.129", "lines": ["Then life departed; all around him wept,", "And bitter sorrow in their hearts they kept."]}, {"id": "E6.37.130", "lines": ["His sister mourned and called his words to mind;", "Her heart was torn by grief she could not bind."]}, {"id": "E6.37.131", "lines": ["His sister had a silver coffin made;", "His frame was wrapped in folds of rich brocade."]}, {"id": "E6.37.132", "lines": ["Fine linen lay beneath his shirt; they spread", "The camphor round him till it hid his head."]}, {"id": "E6.37.133", "lines": ["Such is the course of this uncertain stay:", "Do not toil hard; you too must pass away."]}, {"id": "E6.37.134", "lines": ["Drink wine, not grief, by daylight and by night,", "With laughing lips and heart made glad and light."]}, {"id": "E6.38.1", "lines": ["When news of slain Chubin had reached his ear,", "The Khan was overcome by grief and fear."]}, {"id": "E6.38.2", "lines": ["The letter came; the envoy told the tale,", "And round the throne rose sorrow like a gale."]}, {"id": "E6.38.3", "lines": ["The Khan was stricken, pierced through heart and soul;", "His bloodshot eyes wept tears beyond control."]}, {"id": "E6.38.4", "lines": ["Amazed, he called his seasoned council near,", "And spoke of Bahram’s death with bitter fear."]}, {"id": "E6.38.5", "lines": ["Then all who heard the story wept for woe,", "And Chin burned inward, though no flames would show."]}, {"id": "E6.38.6", "lines": ["They mourned from palace wall to common street,", "With grief like embers burning at their feet."]}, {"id": "E6.38.7", "lines": ["The Khan sought out the author of the crime,", "And traced the hand that struck at such a time."]}, {"id": "E6.38.8", "lines": ["Kulun had in Turan two children, bred", "Among close kin who shared their roof and bread."]}, {"id": "E6.38.9", "lines": ["When truth was known, he burned the dwelling down,", "With all its quarter in that stricken town."]}, {"id": "E6.38.10", "lines": ["He flung the children in the leaping flame,", "And gave their goods to plunder, spoil, and shame."]}, {"id": "E6.38.11", "lines": ["He knew that Kharrad’s schemes had shaped it all,", "That guile and wrong had brought about this fall."]}, {"id": "E6.38.12", "lines": ["He sent swift dromedaries through the land,", "But Kharrad did not fall into his hand."]}, {"id": "E6.38.13", "lines": ["He cried, “How did that dog escape and flee,", "Who kindled such a raging fire for me?”"]}, {"id": "E6.38.14", "lines": ["The Khatoon next he seized; from private place", "He dragged her by the hair in grim disgrace."]}, {"id": "E6.38.15", "lines": ["He seized her wealth and would not heed her pain,", "Nor let her grief awaken mercy’s reign."]}, {"id": "E6.38.16", "lines": ["The Khan and court put on the mournful blue,", "And draped the realm in sorrow’s darkling hue."]}, {"id": "E6.38.17", "lines": ["He mourned for Bahram for a time; the shame", "Of that affair had stained the Khan’s own name."]}, {"id": "E6.39.1", "lines": ["When Kharrad Barzin came, the monarch heard", "His deeds, his news, and every spoken word."]}, {"id": "E6.39.2", "lines": ["At his report, the monarch’s heart grew bright,", "Released from him who challenged royal right."]}, {"id": "E6.39.3", "lines": ["He gave the poor both silver coins and dress,", "And gifts of every kind to ease distress."]}, {"id": "E6.39.4", "lines": ["To every ruler went the written word,", "In Pahlavi, of all that had occurred."]}, {"id": "E6.39.5", "lines": ["They told what God Almighty, just and true,", "Had done, and how the foe He overthrew."]}, {"id": "E6.39.6", "lines": ["The Shah then wrote to Caesar in his name,", "A royal letter worthy of his fame."]}, {"id": "E6.39.7", "lines": ["For one full week they feasted, high and low,", "While wine and music made each quarter glow."]}, {"id": "E6.39.8", "lines": ["He sent gifts to the temple of the Fire,", "And gave Mobadan robes of rich attire."]}, {"id": "E6.39.9", "lines": ["He told Kharrad, “A fitting gift would be", "A crown and throne, bestowed on you by me.”"]}, {"id": "E6.39.10", "lines": ["He filled his mouth with jewels, bright and rare,", "And heaped rich treasure round him everywhere."]}, {"id": "E6.39.11", "lines": ["The treasurer poured dinars on the ground,", "A hundred thousand, till they hemmed him round."]}, {"id": "E6.39.12", "lines": ["The Shah said, “He who leaves the rightful way", "Will see a shadow fall across his day."]}, {"id": "E6.39.13", "lines": ["Though brave as Bahram in the battle’s thrust,", "An aged Turk may cast him into dust.”"]}, {"id": "E6.39.14", "lines": ["The Mobadan blessed the king with accord:", "“May earth be never left without you, lord."]}, {"id": "E6.39.15", "lines": ["If any man would dim your radiant face,", "May he meet Bahram’s end in like disgrace.”"]}, {"id": "E6.40.1", "lines": ["When rage eased in the Khan, all Chin was red,", "And earth seemed gore from all the blood he shed,"]}, {"id": "E6.40.2", "lines": ["He said, “Weak men in action go astray;", "Yet Bahram gave me joy in every way."]}, {"id": "E6.40.3", "lines": ["Why have I failed that hero’s kin in need,", "So weak and abject in my thought and deed?"]}, {"id": "E6.40.4", "lines": ["All those who hear of this will blame my vow;", "No future heart will trust my pledges now."]}, {"id": "E6.40.5", "lines": ["I have not soothed his little child’s distress,", "Nor cared for all his kin in wretchedness,"]}, {"id": "E6.40.6", "lines": ["Though through my daughter he was joined to me,", "A man of love and wisdom, bold and free.”"]}, {"id": "E6.40.7", "lines": ["He summoned prince Tobarg and spoke at length:", "“Go now to Marv with all your speed and strength;"]}, {"id": "E6.40.8", "lines": ["Seek out the kin of brave Chubin, and greet", "The mourning house with words both grave and sweet."]}, {"id": "E6.40.9", "lines": ["Say, ‘I am stricken through the heart with grief,", "My tears shall flow through life without relief."]}, {"id": "E6.40.10", "lines": ["In vengeance I have bathed the land in gore;", "The cities curse me, Bahram they adore."]}, {"id": "E6.40.11", "lines": ["Though I take vengeance for this grievous pain,", "And bring the heavens down upon the plain,"]}, {"id": "E6.40.12", "lines": ["Yet wise men know no soul can break away", "From God’s decree or change his destined day."]}, {"id": "E6.40.13", "lines": ["This end was set for him by Fate and sky,", "And through the foul Div’s sorcery and lie."]}, {"id": "E6.40.14", "lines": ["I keep my first pledge; till my final breath,", "No wind shall turn me false in life or death.’"]}, {"id": "E6.40.15", "lines": ["This letter to his sister you shall take,", "To noble Gurdiyeh; speak for my sake:"]}, {"id": "E6.40.16", "lines": ["Say, ‘Holy lady, pure in heart and name,", "Upright and kind, of high and flawless fame,"]}, {"id": "E6.40.17", "lines": ["I pondered long on all that touched your heart,", "And wisdom in my counsel took its part."]}, {"id": "E6.40.18", "lines": ["No husband is more fit than I to stand", "Beside you, if you bless my house and land."]}, {"id": "E6.40.19", "lines": ["Come grace my household with your counsel bright;", "I shall hold you as body, soul, and light."]}, {"id": "E6.40.20", "lines": ["I shall strive never to break faith with you,", "But keep the covenant between us true."]}, {"id": "E6.40.21", "lines": ["Chubin’s great army and his treasure-store", "Shall bow to you as empress evermore."]}, {"id": "E6.40.22", "lines": ["Now gather friends and let the wise confer;", "Let judgment weigh what course you should prefer."]}, {"id": "E6.40.23", "lines": ["Let wisdom govern every word to me,", "Then set your judgment down for me to see.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.40.24", "lines": ["Tobarg set forth and sped toward Marv that day,", "Like dove from cypress flying on its way."]}, {"id": "E6.40.25", "lines": ["He bore the letter and the Khan’s goodwill", "To Bahram’s kin, with grief remembered still."]}, {"id": "E6.40.26", "lines": ["He shared the Khan’s own words, and how his soul", "Had burned for vengeance past his own control."]}, {"id": "E6.40.27", "lines": ["Then said, “O sages, nobles wise of heart,", "Approved and watchful, skilled in counsel’s art,"]}, {"id": "E6.40.28", "lines": ["May rich reward from him on you descend;", "May the just Judge remain his constant friend."]}, {"id": "E6.40.29", "lines": ["This sudden death was no light stroke of Fate;", "No man expected grief so dark and great.”"]}, {"id": "E6.40.30", "lines": ["Then privately he gave the letter, bent", "To tell her all the Khan’s own message meant."]}, {"id": "E6.40.31", "lines": ["He spoke of kinship, counsel old and new,", "And of a woman’s virtue, pure and true."]}, {"id": "E6.40.32", "lines": ["The prince spoke on; the spotless lady heard,", "But chose at first to answer not a word."]}, {"id": "E6.40.33", "lines": ["Thereafter, when she read the letter through,", "And all the Khan’s imperial meaning knew,"]}, {"id": "E6.40.34", "lines": ["She summoned thought and wisdom, weighed each phrase,", "Then answered him in measured words of praise:"]}, {"id": "E6.40.35", "lines": ["“I have perused this letter, line by line,", "And sat with wisdom to discern its sign."]}, {"id": "E6.40.36", "lines": ["What kings and seasoned men of power would do,", "The Khan has done, and shown his judgment true."]}, {"id": "E6.40.37", "lines": ["May all our eyes be bright upon that man", "Who has avenged us through his royal plan."]}, {"id": "E6.40.38", "lines": ["May earth not lack the Khan; may kingship shine", "Through him, and bless his path with light divine."]}, {"id": "E6.40.39", "lines": ["May care not wound his heart or bring him grief,", "Nor let the world lose hope in him, its chief."]}, {"id": "E6.40.40", "lines": ["When we sit down together, every part", "We shall read, with wise men of might and heart."]}, {"id": "E6.40.41", "lines": ["Then each shall weigh the counsel you have brought,", "And judge the noble union that is sought."]}, {"id": "E6.40.42", "lines": ["Yet all my family is clothed in woe;", "The hour is harsh, and joy must not yet grow."]}, {"id": "E6.40.43", "lines": ["When mourning for so great a chief is through,", "The Khan’s command shall guide what I shall do."]}, {"id": "E6.40.44", "lines": ["To Iran I can find no homeward road;", "No better lot than marriage is bestowed"]}, {"id": "E6.40.45", "lines": ["Upon a woman chaste; yet if I came", "In haste, how would the wise king judge my name?"]}, {"id": "E6.40.46", "lines": ["To seek out joy while mourning fills my days", "Would show no piety or noble ways."]}, {"id": "E6.40.47", "lines": ["The wise would say I cast all shame aside;", "The Khan himself would scorn me as his bride."]}, {"id": "E6.40.48", "lines": ["When four full months of mourning have passed by,", "I shall dispatch a rider in reply."]}, {"id": "E6.40.49", "lines": ["I shall hear what more counsel may arise,", "Then write the Khan with judgment from the wise."]}, {"id": "E6.40.50", "lines": ["For now, go glad, and bear my words away.”", "She gave him gifts and sped him on his way."]}, {"id": "E6.41.1", "lines": ["Then in her leisure that young prudent dame", "Consulted all her counselors by name."]}, {"id": "E6.41.2", "lines": ["She said, “A new and wondrous tale is told,", "Whose memory within will not grow old."]}, {"id": "E6.41.3", "lines": ["The Khan, great ruler, skilled in courtly art,", "Has asked to marry me and win my heart."]}, {"id": "E6.41.4", "lines": ["He has no fault; a mighty king is he,", "And Turan’s troops submit to his decree."]}, {"id": "E6.41.5", "lines": ["While my great Lion lived, no man had dared", "To seek my hand or have his wish declared."]}, {"id": "E6.41.6", "lines": ["For twenty years after I lost my sire,", "Bahram stood guardian, fierce with loyal fire."]}, {"id": "E6.41.7", "lines": ["He raged when any suitor sought my hand,", "And kept all claimants far from where I stand."]}, {"id": "E6.41.8", "lines": ["The Khan is not a man of low estate;", "His power is wide, his armies strong and great."]}, {"id": "E6.41.9", "lines": ["Yet if he seeks to make one kinship grow", "Between Iran and Turk, both realms will know"]}, {"id": "E6.41.10", "lines": ["Affliction, travail, bitterness, and pain;", "Such bonds have never ripened into gain."]}, {"id": "E6.41.11", "lines": ["Recall the end that Siavash received", "From Afrasiab, whose pledge he had believed."]}, {"id": "E6.41.12", "lines": ["That peerless youth, the noblest ever born,", "Lost first his head; his life from him was torn."]}, {"id": "E6.41.13", "lines": ["What did that chieftain’s son accomplish then", "But raise war’s dust through all Iran again?"]}, {"id": "E6.41.14", "lines": ["And dust from Turan too was sent on high;", "Both lands were dark beneath a troubled sky."]}, {"id": "E6.41.15", "lines": ["Contrive that, hidden from the Turks, our tale", "May pass to Iran quickly and not fail."]}, {"id": "E6.41.16", "lines": ["I have prepared a letter to Gordvi,", "And thought beforehand what our course should be."]}, {"id": "E6.41.17", "lines": ["He may present my case before the king,", "And tell him all the grief these troubles bring."]}, {"id": "E6.41.18", "lines": ["God helping, he will hear what I shall say,", "And my persuasive words will win their way.”"]}, {"id": "E6.41.19", "lines": ["They said, “You are our lady and our might,", "In Chin and Iran, strength in every plight."]}, {"id": "E6.41.20", "lines": ["An iron mountain could not make you bend;", "You lead brave men to honor’s noble end."]}, {"id": "E6.41.21", "lines": ["You are more shrewd than sages in their art,", "More full of counsel than a vizier’s heart."]}, {"id": "E6.41.22", "lines": ["We are your subjects all; yours is the word,", "And yours to judge the answer to be heard.”"]}, {"id": "E6.41.23", "lines": ["She called the muster officer, and paid", "Him at the divan, where his place was made."]}, {"id": "E6.41.24", "lines": ["She went forth and inspected every man,", "Then chose the strongest fighters of the clan."]}, {"id": "E6.41.25", "lines": ["Eleven hundred and sixty she chose,", "Each one a match for ten among his foes."]}, {"id": "E6.41.26", "lines": ["She paid them silver, sought her own abode,", "And spoke to troops prepared to take the road."]}, {"id": "E6.41.27", "lines": ["“Whoever once rode armed into the fray", "Will face whatever dangers bar the way."]}, {"id": "E6.41.28", "lines": ["He fears no murderous multitude in fight,", "Though clouds rain severed heads and veil the light."]}, {"id": "E6.41.29", "lines": ["Our road leads to Iran, and to the king", "Of valiant men, where royal banners spring."]}, {"id": "E6.41.30", "lines": ["Here in Turan we are but strangers all,", "Friendless and weak among the proud and tall."]}, {"id": "E6.41.31", "lines": ["When darkness falls, let us withdraw unseen,", "While sleep lies heavy on the heads of Chin."]}, {"id": "E6.41.32", "lines": ["Let not your hearts grow faint with fear of fight,", "If troops from Chin pursue us in our flight."]}, {"id": "E6.41.33", "lines": ["Their chiefs with massive gorzes may pursue;", "They will come for me; that is surely true."]}, {"id": "E6.41.34", "lines": ["Let each man take his life within his hand,", "And if they come, strike hard and make your stand."]}, {"id": "E6.41.35", "lines": ["But if you do not choose to share this flight,", "Stay where you are; move not a step tonight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.41.36", "lines": ["They shouted, “We are yours; we shall obey.”", "They understood, rose up, and armed that day."]}, {"id": "E6.41.37", "lines": ["With Mehr and Izad Gashasp in the throng,", "Yalan-sina rode with the chiefs along."]}, {"id": "E6.41.38", "lines": ["They swore to guard Chubin’s embalmed remains,", "Or perish fighting on Turanian plains."]}, {"id": "E6.41.39", "lines": ["She sought the caravan upon the plain,", "And called for camels for her baggage train."]}, {"id": "E6.41.40", "lines": ["Three thousand camels bore the treasure-store,", "While on a beast the silver bier they bore:"]}, {"id": "E6.41.41", "lines": ["With gorz, helm, jowshan, sword, the maiden flew,", "Leading her army through the night-time dew."]}, {"id": "E6.42.1", "lines": ["Some men deserted from Gurdiyeh’s force,", "And sought the Khan’s protection on their course."]}, {"id": "E6.42.2", "lines": ["The Khan’s own brother came and said, “Great chief,", "O lover of the fray and foe of grief,"]}, {"id": "E6.42.3", "lines": ["Some valiant troops have turned toward Iran,", "While others seek your shelter, mighty Khan."]}, {"id": "E6.42.4", "lines": ["The realm and army mock us evermore", "For this disgrace before the palace door.”"]}, {"id": "E6.42.5", "lines": ["The chieftain’s cheek grew white with wrath and shame;", "He heard the words, and anger filled his frame."]}, {"id": "E6.42.6", "lines": ["He answered, “Hasten; lead a chosen band,", "And trace the road they took across the land."]}, {"id": "E6.42.7", "lines": ["When you have reached them, do not start with harm;", "First use sweet words to quiet their alarm."]}, {"id": "E6.42.8", "lines": ["Not one of them can know our ways; perhaps", "Through you our foe may see his strength collapse."]}, {"id": "E6.42.9", "lines": ["Speak with affection; treat them gently still,", "Encourage them with kindness and goodwill."]}, {"id": "E6.42.10", "lines": ["But if they start a battle, fierce and bold,", "Stand firm in battle; let no softness hold."]}, {"id": "E6.42.11", "lines": ["Make them a graveyard there at Marv, and spread", "The earth with pheasant hues where men lie dead.”"]}, {"id": "E6.42.12", "lines": ["He went with six full thousand chosen horse,", "Picked Turks, and followed hard along their course."]}, {"id": "E6.42.13", "lines": ["Upon the fourth day Tobarg reached their train,", "And saw the troops of Iran on the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.42.14", "lines": ["That lion-hearted dame beheld the sight,", "But fear could never dim her inward light."]}, {"id": "E6.42.15", "lines": ["She left the ranks and hastened to the rear,", "And reached the cameleers who traveled near."]}, {"id": "E6.42.16", "lines": ["She placed the baggage train behind the line,", "Then turned and studied all the field’s design."]}, {"id": "E6.42.17", "lines": ["She donned her brother’s armor for the fight,", "And mounted on a fiery steed of might."]}, {"id": "E6.42.18", "lines": ["Both sides were ranked; each warrior drew his breath,", "And held his life in hand, defying death."]}, {"id": "E6.42.19", "lines": ["Tobarg came forward from his Turkish men;", "The Khan would call him “Old Wolf” time and again."]}, {"id": "E6.42.20", "lines": ["He called, “Is that pure lady with this band?", "Does she among your mighty numbers stand?”"]}, {"id": "E6.42.21", "lines": ["Then Gurdiyeh came forth in armor bright,", "Clad like a warrior ready for the fight."]}, {"id": "E6.42.22", "lines": ["The valiant Tobarg did not know her, masked", "By jowshan, and spurred close to her, and asked:"]}, {"id": "E6.42.23", "lines": ["He said, “Where does brave Bahram’s sister stand?", "I seek that noble lady by command."]}, {"id": "E6.42.24", "lines": ["I bear a message touching old and new,", "Of present grief and what the past made true.”"]}, {"id": "E6.42.25", "lines": ["She answered, “Here am I, prepared to ride", "And charge a ravening lion in his pride.”"]}, {"id": "E6.42.26", "lines": ["He heard the voice of that heroic dame,", "Who rode a lion-steed with warrior flame."]}, {"id": "E6.42.27", "lines": ["Amazed, he said, “The Khan of Chin chose you,", "From all the realm, as noble, wise, and true,"]}, {"id": "E6.42.28", "lines": ["To keep alive the thought of Bahram’s name,", "The chosen mighty horseman of lion fame."]}, {"id": "E6.42.29", "lines": ["He said, ‘That kindness I shall well repay,", "As you will hear in what I have to say.’"]}, {"id": "E6.42.30", "lines": ["He told me, ‘Go to her without delay:", "“If what I asked has seemed too harsh today,"]}, {"id": "E6.42.31", "lines": ["Think of my former suit as words unsaid;", "I have withdrawn the wish that we should wed."]}, {"id": "E6.42.32", "lines": ["Though you desire no husband, you must stay;", "You may not leave this land and ride away.”"]}, {"id": "E6.42.33", "lines": ["Speak thus to her; if she rejects this course,", "Then bind her, since she spurns advice, by force."]}, {"id": "E6.42.34", "lines": ["And bind the one who urged her to this flight,", "Whose words have passed beyond the bounds of right.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.42.35", "lines": ["She answered, “Let us leave the ranks awhile,", "And I will answer you with measured style.”"]}, {"id": "E6.42.36", "lines": ["He rode toward her, leaving all his men;", "She saw that he was quite alone, and then"]}, {"id": "E6.42.37", "lines": ["Beneath her sable helm she showed her face,", "And spoke with royal courage, scorn, and grace."]}, {"id": "E6.42.38", "lines": ["“You saw Chubin’s great horsemanship in fight,", "And marveled at his deeds and all his might."]}, {"id": "E6.42.39", "lines": ["He was both mother and a father dear;", "His days are ended; now I face you here."]}, {"id": "E6.42.40", "lines": ["Now I shall test you; let our weapons show", "If I am fit to wed, and you shall know.”"]}, {"id": "E6.42.41", "lines": ["She spurred her battle-steed; her lance struck true,", "And then it pierced his jowshan through and through:"]}, {"id": "E6.42.42", "lines": ["She hurled him from his saddle to the plain,", "A lifeless corpse among the desert train!"]}, {"id": "E6.42.43", "lines": ["Then Izad Gashasp broke Chin’s stunned array,", "While on toward Iran she pressed her way."]}, {"id": "E6.43.1", "lines": ["Upon the fourth day Amuy came in sight;", "No woman ever had matched her warlike might."]}, {"id": "E6.43.2", "lines": ["She paused awhile at Amuy on the way,", "And in her heart her cares increased each day."]}, {"id": "E6.43.3", "lines": ["She wrote then to her brother, telling all", "Her grief and how such sorrows came to fall."]}, {"id": "E6.43.4", "lines": ["“Our brother Bahram passed in grief and pain,", "Repenting of the strife that rent the plain;"]}, {"id": "E6.43.5", "lines": ["His dying words enjoined us to submit,", "And seek the Shah as loyalty deemed fit."]}, {"id": "E6.43.6", "lines": ["Tell our high Shah the counsel you have heard", "From me, and faithfully convey my word."]}, {"id": "E6.43.7", "lines": ["A mighty force pursued us on the way,", "Famed chiefs and warriors hungry for the fray."]}, {"id": "E6.43.8", "lines": ["I drove them from the battle in such plight", "They shall see neither feast nor further fight."]}, {"id": "E6.43.9", "lines": ["Great chiefs are with me; may no harm befall", "These men of fame who stand beside me all."]}, {"id": "E6.43.10", "lines": ["I wait in Amuy; may my star shine clear", "And bring the answer I am seeking here.”"]}, {"id": "E6.44.1", "lines": ["Then Khosrow sat at ease, securely crowned,", "For brave Chubin no longer shook the ground."]}, {"id": "E6.44.2", "lines": ["No hostile chieftain rose within the land", "To meet him where the ringing squadrons stand."]}, {"id": "E6.44.3", "lines": ["One day he told his minister of state,", "“How long shall I conceal this hidden weight?"]}, {"id": "E6.44.4", "lines": ["My father’s killer passes here each day;", "He is my kin; what can I think or say?"]}, {"id": "E6.44.5", "lines": ["My shining soul is steeped in blood and pain;", "How, bearing this, can I conduct my reign?”"]}, {"id": "E6.44.6", "lines": ["They set the board; he drank some wine, then cast", "Bandvi in bonds that day and held him fast."]}, {"id": "E6.44.7", "lines": ["The Shah then charged his minister: “Take care;", "Cut off his hands and feet; no moment spare;"]}, {"id": "E6.44.8", "lines": ["He cannot arm himself for further strife", "To spill a king’s blood and cut short his life.”"]}, {"id": "E6.44.9", "lines": ["They cut his limbs; in agony he sighed,", "And on the gibbet for his treason died."]}, {"id": "E6.44.10", "lines": ["The Shah sent forth a rider on the spur:", "“Speak not to anyone; do not demur."]}, {"id": "E6.44.11", "lines": ["Ride to the frontier lord without delay,", "And tell Gostaham, ‘Come at once this way."]}, {"id": "E6.44.12", "lines": ["When you have read this letter of command,", "Make haste to me and leave Khorasan’s land.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.44.13", "lines": ["He reached Khorasan, bearing words of grace,", "To lure the unsuspecting to the place;"]}, {"id": "E6.44.14", "lines": ["Yet secret couriers warned him of the deed,", "And urged him to beware the monarch’s greed!"]}, {"id": "E6.45.1", "lines": ["When Gostaham received the Shah’s command,", "He called the scattered troops beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "E6.45.2", "lines": ["He marched through Sari, Amol, on his way,", "With all his gathered force in full array."]}, {"id": "E6.45.3", "lines": ["He came to Gorgan, country of the great,", "And heard the Shah had turned his heart to hate."]}, {"id": "E6.45.4", "lines": ["He heard that Khosrow, drunk, had Bandvi slain;", "His brother’s death consumed his heart with pain."]}, {"id": "E6.45.5", "lines": ["He gnawed his hands, dismounted from his steed,", "And tore his garments in his bitter need."]}, {"id": "E6.45.6", "lines": ["He poured the dust upon his head and cried,", "Perceiving vengeance now on every side."]}, {"id": "E6.45.7", "lines": ["The Shah would now avenge King Hormizd’s blood,", "And Gostaham stood threatened by that flood."]}, {"id": "E6.45.8", "lines": ["He turned back mourning, overcome with dread;", "Before him grief, behind him vengeance spread."]}, {"id": "E6.45.9", "lines": ["He gathered all his scattered troops again,", "And then sought thick Narvan’s woods with his men."]}, {"id": "E6.45.10", "lines": ["He reached Amol’s old hills, and in the shade", "Of cooling trees his army’s camp was made."]}, {"id": "E6.45.11", "lines": ["He raided outposts, bent on open war,", "And struck the royal troops, score after score."]}, {"id": "E6.45.12", "lines": ["The workless poor came flocking to be fed,", "And swelled his ranks along the roads he led."]}, {"id": "E6.45.13", "lines": ["Wherever royal soldiers camped in pride,", "He crushed their ranks and swept their strength aside."]}, {"id": "E6.45.14", "lines": ["Now Gordvi came and stood before the Shah,", "And told what Gurdiyeh had achieved afar."]}, {"id": "E6.45.15", "lines": ["He told how she had faced the Khan’s array,", "With all her warriors mustered for the fray."]}, {"id": "E6.45.16", "lines": ["He told how there at Marv she took the field,", "And made the ranks of Chin before her yield."]}, {"id": "E6.45.17", "lines": ["Meanwhile to Gostaham the tidings came", "That death had quenched brave Bahram Chubin’s flame."]}, {"id": "E6.45.18", "lines": ["He heard Gurdiyeh with many troops had fled,", "While Chin’s fierce chiefs pursued the path she led."]}, {"id": "E6.45.19", "lines": ["He heard how she had met Chin’s troops in arms,", "And dealt with them in battle’s loud alarms."]}, {"id": "E6.45.20", "lines": ["He called to horse and from the forest sped,", "Like wind with all his gathered troops ahead."]}, {"id": "E6.45.21", "lines": ["When Gurdiyeh heard, she came with noble train,", "From Amuy, with her chiefs across the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.45.22", "lines": ["Gostaham saw them, rode before his men,", "And met Gurdiyeh in sorrow there again."]}, {"id": "E6.45.23", "lines": ["He spoke of Bahram, grieving for his fate,", "And mourned the loss of one so brave and great."]}, {"id": "E6.45.24", "lines": ["He spoke of grief for Bandvi, newly slain,", "And wiped the blood-tears from his eyes like rain."]}, {"id": "E6.45.25", "lines": ["He saw Yalan-sina and, close beside,", "Izad Gashasp; he left his mount and cried."]}, {"id": "E6.45.26", "lines": ["He said, “The Shah has slain Bandvi; my day", "Has darkened, and my fortune ebbed away."]}, {"id": "E6.45.27", "lines": ["He acts as though no sister of the slain", "Had borne him; Bandvi bled for him in vain."]}, {"id": "E6.45.28", "lines": ["Bandvi would hold him high above his head,", "And give his soul for dust beneath his tread."]}, {"id": "E6.45.29", "lines": ["In drunkenness, with royal wrath made plain,", "The Shah cut hands and feet from him in pain."]}, {"id": "E6.45.30", "lines": ["What hope have you in Khosrow’s royal bough?", "What fruit can any willow bear you now?"]}, {"id": "E6.45.31", "lines": ["He will treat you still worse; his wrath will sweep", "The town, and make the flesh of men grow cheap."]}, {"id": "E6.45.32", "lines": ["Seeing Yalan-sina, he will renew", "His wrath and all the hate he bears to you."]}, {"id": "E6.45.33", "lines": ["You were Chubin’s sepahbod and his hand,", "And gained your power beneath his high command."]}, {"id": "E6.45.34", "lines": ["Let all who know him shun him; sharp and bright,", "A khanjar for his throat would serve him right."]}, {"id": "E6.45.35", "lines": ["If you remain with us, we shall consult", "On every matter, weighing each result.”"]}, {"id": "E6.45.36", "lines": ["They took his counsel, fearing harm too great,", "And turned aside from ruin’s open gate."]}, {"id": "E6.45.37", "lines": ["He spoke to Gurdiyeh with words of heat,", "Recalling Bahram’s deeds, his every feat."]}, {"id": "E6.45.38", "lines": ["His words made Gurdiyeh’s troubled spirit shake;", "She felt her former strength begin to break."]}, {"id": "E6.45.39", "lines": ["They all joined Gostaham; his darkened mind", "Cleared as new allies gathered close behind."]}, {"id": "E6.45.40", "lines": ["He said to Yalan-sina, “Probe with tact:", "Would this proud lady wed, and seal the pact?”"]}, {"id": "E6.45.41", "lines": ["Yalan-sina said, “I shall speak and see", "By patient speech what her own will may be.”"]}, {"id": "E6.45.42", "lines": ["He said, “You are a woman wise in thought;", "Your flight from the Khan was fitting, wisely sought."]}, {"id": "E6.45.43", "lines": ["What say you to Gostaham, rich in gold,", "The Shah’s maternal uncle, strong and bold?”"]}, {"id": "E6.45.44", "lines": ["She said: “An Iranian lord of noble birth", "Protects our lineage on this troubled earth.”"]}, {"id": "E6.45.45", "lines": ["Yalan-sina gave her to him to wed,", "A valiant man, of royal lineage bred."]}, {"id": "E6.46.1", "lines": ["Time passed; the Shah still nursed a private flame,", "And Gostaham remained the source of blame."]}, {"id": "E6.46.2", "lines": ["One day he said to Gordvi, “So I hear", "That Gostaham has drawn Gurdiyeh near."]}, {"id": "E6.46.3", "lines": ["He took Gurdiyeh to wife; great troops now stand", "Beside him, drawn, I think, by what she planned."]}, {"id": "E6.46.4", "lines": ["A spy returned from Amol to my hall,", "And made the matter plain before us all.”"]}, {"id": "E6.46.5", "lines": ["He spoke until the fading light grew dim,", "And warriors stared, their eyes transfixed on him."]}, {"id": "E6.46.6", "lines": ["The players set out lamps and wine; the rest,", "All strangers, were dismissed at his behest."]}, {"id": "E6.46.7", "lines": ["Then Shah and Gordvi sat, the chamber bare,", "And weighed Gurdiyeh’s part in each affair."]}, {"id": "E6.46.8", "lines": ["The Shah said, “I have sent great troops to fight,", "And take revenge on Amol’s mountain height."]}, {"id": "E6.46.9", "lines": ["They all came back with wounds and heavy chains,", "With hearts cast down and bodies racked with pains."]}, {"id": "E6.46.10", "lines": ["Though Bahram Chubin once had gone astray,", "Gurdiyeh never turned from us away."]}, {"id": "E6.46.11", "lines": ["I have a scheme; keep close what I shall say,", "Let not a whisper leak by night or day."]}, {"id": "E6.46.12", "lines": ["A letter must be sent her, soft and fine,", "Like Eden’s streams that flow with fragrant wine."]}, {"id": "E6.46.13", "lines": ["It must declare, ‘My friendship shall be true;", "In every place and task I shall help you."]}, {"id": "E6.46.14", "lines": ["Long was this secret hidden in my breast,", "But now the hour has come to speak the rest."]}, {"id": "E6.46.15", "lines": ["For Gordvi is myself in heart and will;", "His trust and mine are joined and settled still."]}, {"id": "E6.46.16", "lines": ["Devise some secret means, both sure and sound,", "To lay this rank affliction underground."]}, {"id": "E6.46.17", "lines": ["Lay Gostaham beneath the burial stone;", "Then win my heart and household as your own."]}, {"id": "E6.46.18", "lines": ["Your troops and partisans shall safely stand,", "And never suffer scorn in any land."]}, {"id": "E6.46.19", "lines": ["I shall give provinces to those you name,", "That each may rule with honor and with fame."]}, {"id": "E6.46.20", "lines": ["Come to my golden chambers as my bride,", "And let my vengeance thus be satisfied."]}, {"id": "E6.46.21", "lines": ["I pledge myself with oaths and further signs,", "With firm assurances and royal lines.’”"]}, {"id": "E6.46.22", "lines": ["Gordvi replied, “May Shah Khosrow endure,", "As Venus bright in Virgo, calm and pure."]}, {"id": "E6.46.23", "lines": ["My life, my children, kin and lands I prize", "Are nothing next to you in my own eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.46.24", "lines": ["I shall send one to her with this design,", "To make her darkened soul with brightness shine."]}, {"id": "E6.46.25", "lines": ["I need a letter from the king’s own hand,", "And sealed with royal signet by command."]}, {"id": "E6.46.26", "lines": ["I send it to my sister by my wife,", "And end the threat that darkens royal life."]}, {"id": "E6.46.27", "lines": ["This work belongs to women, most of all", "To one discreet when secret matters call."]}, {"id": "E6.46.28", "lines": ["Once your persuasive words to her are known,", "The matter soon will end as you have shown."]}, {"id": "E6.46.29", "lines": ["Your message must reach Gurdiyeh’s prudent ear;", "There is no need for further counsel here.”"]}, {"id": "E6.46.30", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard, he felt his cares depart,", "Like wind that lifts a burden from the heart."]}, {"id": "E6.46.31", "lines": ["He called the treasurer then for silk fine,", "And ink with ground black musk to trace each line."]}, {"id": "E6.46.32", "lines": ["On silk he wrote, with musk and amber traced,", "Where oaths of peace and royal terms were placed:"]}, {"id": "E6.46.33", "lines": ["By holy Fire and Zand he pledged his grace,", "To grant her honor in the bridegroom’s place."]}, {"id": "E6.46.34", "lines": ["They pressed in musk the royal signet’s name:", "Parviz, the Shah from whom the letter came."]}, {"id": "E6.46.35", "lines": ["Gordvi wrote counsel too, and much beside,", "Recalling Bahram’s deeds and ruined pride."]}, {"id": "E6.46.36", "lines": ["He wrote how Bahram shamed his house and land,", "And left disgrace upon his kindred’s hand."]}, {"id": "E6.46.37", "lines": ["He prayed, “May God forgive him for his deed,", "And show him mercy in his hour of need."]}, {"id": "E6.46.38", "lines": ["Those void of wisdom never weigh the end,", "Nor see where rash and wrongful actions tend."]}, {"id": "E6.46.39", "lines": ["He has gone on; we all must follow too,", "And trust the justice God will bring to view."]}, {"id": "E6.46.40", "lines": ["My wife, when she arrives, will counsel you;", "Do not depart from what she bids you do."]}, {"id": "E6.46.41", "lines": ["If you refuse, your Fortune’s face will fade,", "And all your hope will stand in grief and shade.”"]}, {"id": "E6.46.42", "lines": ["He placed the Shah’s dispatch within his own,", "Then wrapped them both in silk with patterns sewn."]}, {"id": "E6.46.43", "lines": ["His wary wife received the charge and word,", "And held each strict command that she had heard."]}, {"id": "E6.46.44", "lines": ["She rode toward the elm wood, on her way", "To Gurdiyeh, with all she had to say."]}, {"id": "E6.46.45", "lines": ["When Gurdiyeh saw her, she grew fresh as spring;", "Her cheeks regained the bloom that hope could bring."]}, {"id": "E6.46.46", "lines": ["They spoke at length of Bahram, now laid low,", "And let the tears upon their lashes flow."]}, {"id": "E6.46.47", "lines": ["Then privately Gordvi’s wife gave the scroll,", "And laid the hidden scheme before her soul."]}, {"id": "E6.46.48", "lines": ["That lion-woman read the letter through,", "As though the moon on earth had come in view."]}, {"id": "E6.46.49", "lines": ["She laughed: “If I have five friends at my side,", "This task will not confound me,” she replied."]}, {"id": "E6.46.50", "lines": ["She showed the royal letter to her train", "Of five sworn servants, trusted to remain;"]}, {"id": "E6.46.51", "lines": ["She pledged herself and clasped each helper’s hand,", "And bound them to the purpose she had planned."]}, {"id": "E6.46.52", "lines": ["She called the five to her and bade them stay", "Beside the chamber where her husband lay."]}, {"id": "E6.46.53", "lines": ["At night she quenched the lamps; a cushion spread", "Across his face and pressed upon his bed:"]}, {"id": "E6.46.54", "lines": ["Her five attendants held the sleeper fast,", "Until his drunken breathings were his last."]}, {"id": "E6.46.55", "lines": ["She struggled with the drunken man until", "His tongue, once quick with speech, lay mute and still."]}, {"id": "E6.46.56", "lines": ["The chief in darkness died, deprived of light;", "For Khosrow now the night itself grew bright."]}, {"id": "E6.46.57", "lines": ["Then cries and clamor through the city spread;", "Through every street a storm of tumult sped."]}, {"id": "E6.46.58", "lines": ["She heard, and donned her Roman jowshan, bold,", "And called Iran’s men; all her tale she told."]}, {"id": "E6.46.59", "lines": ["She spoke of him who now had met his fate,", "Then showed the royal letter to the great."]}, {"id": "E6.46.60", "lines": ["Their courage rose; the chiefs gave praise, and shed", "Their jewels upon the letter they had read."]}, {"id": "E6.47.1", "lines": ["That dauntless lady called for pen and ink,", "And with her counselors began to think."]}, {"id": "E6.47.2", "lines": ["She wrote the Shah concerning friends and foes,", "With prudent words that royal wisdom chose."]}, {"id": "E6.47.3", "lines": ["She praised the Shah who washed his hate away,", "Then pledged to heed whatever he might say."]}, {"id": "E6.47.4", "lines": ["“The Shah’s command has been obeyed in all,", "As loyal hearts would answer such a call."]}, {"id": "E6.47.5", "lines": ["Through Fortune of the Shah who rules the land,", "That mighty force is now a scattered band."]}, {"id": "E6.47.6", "lines": ["What further orders does the Shah decree?", "What service now remains for one like me?”"]}, {"id": "E6.47.7", "lines": ["When Khosrow read, his heart grew glad and light;", "Her wisdom and obedience pleased his sight."]}, {"id": "E6.47.8", "lines": ["The Shah chose one, a sweet-tongued, trusted man,", "High-starred and honest, wise in every plan."]}, {"id": "E6.47.9", "lines": ["He wrote a letter bright as Chin’s Artang,", "With blessings where the royal phrases rang."]}, {"id": "E6.47.10", "lines": ["He called her to his court, and wrote her praise:", "“The moon’s own crown,” declared his letter’s phrase."]}, {"id": "E6.47.11", "lines": ["The envoy hastened through the flying dust,", "And told her all the Shah had said in trust."]}, {"id": "E6.47.12", "lines": ["The lion-lady bloomed like springtime’s flower,", "Made glad by summons from the Shah of power."]}, {"id": "E6.47.13", "lines": ["She called her troops; their pay she then bestowed,", "And loaded baggage when the daylight showed."]}, {"id": "E6.47.14", "lines": ["She neared the royal city; in array,", "An army came to greet her on the way."]}, {"id": "E6.47.15", "lines": ["Jowshan on, she rode to the palace gate,", "Then stepped afoot before the throne of state:"]}, {"id": "E6.47.16", "lines": ["The Shah was dazzled by her warrior grace,", "As noble chieftains filled the royal place."]}, {"id": "E6.47.17", "lines": ["They brought the treasure forward for review,", "And named each item to his treasurer too."]}, {"id": "E6.47.18", "lines": ["Gold coins and jewels, gathered in a heap,", "With gold-woven brocade and crowns piled deep."]}, {"id": "E6.47.19", "lines": ["With girdles, golden thrones and shields of gold,", "Such treasures as no reckoning could hold."]}, {"id": "E6.47.20", "lines": ["Khosrow beheld that cypress, tall and bright,", "Spring-cheeked, with pheasant gait and queenly light."]}, {"id": "E6.47.21", "lines": ["Her face was day, her locks were dark as night;", "Her lips seemed to rain pearls of purest white."]}, {"id": "E6.47.22", "lines": ["He placed her first within the royal bower,", "Endowed with majesty, renown, and power."]}, {"id": "E6.47.23", "lines": ["He sought Gurdiyeh’s hand to make her bride,", "Then bade the Mobad wed them by old rite."]}, {"id": "E6.47.24", "lines": ["By custom of their faith, he took his wife,", "And cherished her as dearly as his life."]}, {"id": "E6.47.25", "lines": ["Her comrades, too, received rich robes to wear,", "And silver, gold, and gifts both rich and rare."]}, {"id": "E6.48.1", "lines": ["Two weeks had passed; the Shah addressed her so:", "“By sun and moon, by throne and crown aglow,"]}, {"id": "E6.48.2", "lines": ["Tell of your battle with the Khan’s fierce men,", "And arm yourself as you were armored then.”"]}, {"id": "E6.48.3", "lines": ["She answered, “Shah, live ever, bright in view;", "May souls be nourished by the sight of you."]}, {"id": "E6.48.4", "lines": ["Command your men to bring a warhorse strong,", "With saddle, bow, and kamand, coiled and long."]}, {"id": "E6.48.5", "lines": ["A spear, a helm, a battle coat to wear,", "A quiver full of shafts for me to bear.”"]}, {"id": "E6.48.6", "lines": ["The Shah commanded, “Set my seat in place", "Within the garden, fit for royal grace.”"]}, {"id": "E6.48.7", "lines": ["The slaves from Rum and Turkistan obeyed,", "And preparations for her show were made."]}, {"id": "E6.48.8", "lines": ["Twelve hundred beauties made the royal train,", "A throng the garden struggled to contain."]}, {"id": "E6.48.9", "lines": ["Before them Shirin walked, bright as the dawn,", "A silver cypress moving on the lawn."]}, {"id": "E6.48.10", "lines": ["Gurdiyeh neared the Shah and asked a Turk", "For jowshan, Roman helm, for battle’s work."]}, {"id": "E6.48.11", "lines": ["She left her seat, came forth equipped to fight,", "A spear in hand, prepared to show her might."]}, {"id": "E6.48.12", "lines": ["She said, “My king, permit me now to show;", "Watch closely; may you never suffer woe.”"]}, {"id": "E6.48.13", "lines": ["The Shah gave leave; lance held and reins in hand,", "She leapt jowshan-clad, swift as fire and sand."]}, {"id": "E6.48.14", "lines": ["She rode within the garden, left and right,", "And traced strange courses, wondrous to the sight."]}, {"id": "E6.48.15", "lines": ["She wheeled her horse, and raised her voice on high;", "Her battle-cries rose past the clouded sky."]}, {"id": "E6.48.16", "lines": ["She told the Shah, “When I met Tobarg’s might,", "I raged like this, a she-wolf in the fight.”"]}, {"id": "E6.48.17", "lines": ["Then Shirin said, “Why arm her so, O king?", "Her brother’s death may give her wrath its wing."]}, {"id": "E6.48.18", "lines": ["I fear she broods on Bahram’s bitter fate,", "And may turn all that fury into hate."]}, {"id": "E6.48.19", "lines": ["You sit in robes upon your throne of gold,", "While she rides past, with weapons in her hold.”"]}, {"id": "E6.48.20", "lines": ["The Shah laughed, answering Shirin with a smile:", "“Expect her friendship, free of hate or guile.”"]}, {"id": "E6.48.21", "lines": ["She wheeled her charger round him in display;", "“Well done!” the Shah exclaimed along her way."]}, {"id": "E6.48.22", "lines": ["She said, “Would that the Shah’s own foe stood near,", "And faced me now before my lifted spear."]}, {"id": "E6.48.23", "lines": ["I would unhorse him as I did that day,", "When Tobarg from his saddle fell away.”"]}, {"id": "E6.48.24", "lines": ["The Shah was struck with wonder where he stayed,", "At strength and skill and grace that she displayed."]}, {"id": "E6.48.25", "lines": ["He called for wine: “Let all behold and see", "If you can quaff this royal cup of three."]}, {"id": "E6.48.26", "lines": ["Will vintage quell you, or will you remain", "Unbowed in grandeur on the festive plain?"]}, {"id": "E6.48.27", "lines": ["Across the world four chiefs their posts maintain,", "As guardians of my life throughout my reign."]}, {"id": "E6.48.28", "lines": ["Each holds twelve thousand men beneath command,", "Iranian Pahlevans of proven hand."]}, {"id": "E6.48.29", "lines": ["Within my golden bower and gem-bright room,", "Twelve thousand maidens serve in royal bloom."]}, {"id": "E6.48.30", "lines": ["With torques and earrings, they are yours to guide;", "As keeper, you shall over them preside."]}, {"id": "E6.48.31", "lines": ["Of their affairs, whatever may be heard,", "From you alone I wish to have the word.”"]}, {"id": "E6.48.32", "lines": ["Gurdiyeh heard with joy; the taunts that stung", "Were silenced, and reproach had lost its tongue."]}, {"id": "E6.48.33", "lines": ["She bowed to earth before her sovereign’s face,", "And blessed his royal farr and shining grace."]}, {"id": "E6.49.1", "lines": ["Much time passed by; the monarch’s rising star", "Climbed ever higher, shedding light afar."]}, {"id": "E6.49.2", "lines": ["One night he drank with sages at his side,", "With many men and seasoned chiefs allied."]}, {"id": "E6.49.3", "lines": ["Among the guests they raised a graven cup;", "It bore Bahram’s proud name, as they drank up."]}, {"id": "E6.49.4", "lines": ["The Shah commanded, “Cast that vessel down,”", "And all reviled the cup before the crown."]}, {"id": "E6.49.5", "lines": ["They cursed Bahram, the cup that bore his name,", "And he who made it shared their bitter blame."]}, {"id": "E6.49.6", "lines": ["The Shah then said, “Let elephants now tread", "On Rey’s broad fields and drive its folk in dread."]}, {"id": "E6.49.7", "lines": ["Expel the people, ravage house and field;", "Let every dwelling to destruction yield.”"]}, {"id": "E6.49.8", "lines": ["The noble minister addressed him so:", "“O heir to mighty kings, restrain this blow."]}, {"id": "E6.49.9", "lines": ["The realm of Rey is rich, its greatness known;", "Do not let trampling beasts destroy your own."]}, {"id": "E6.49.10", "lines": ["Both God and every worthy man would blame", "A deed that puts so great a land to shame.”"]}, {"id": "E6.49.11", "lines": ["The king replied, “I seek an evil man,", "Low-born and fit to ruin what he can."]}, {"id": "E6.49.12", "lines": ["Let him rule Rey a while, a man unkind,", "With foulness on his tongue and darkened mind.”"]}, {"id": "E6.49.13", "lines": ["The minister replied, “Then name his traits,", "And I shall search through cities, roads, and gates."]}, {"id": "E6.49.14", "lines": ["Unless you mark his nature and his sign,", "No guide can find a man of such design.”"]}, {"id": "E6.49.15", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “I want a babbling knave,", "Ill-starred, red-haired, with nothing wise or brave."]}, {"id": "E6.49.16", "lines": ["Foul, crooked-nosed, with sallow, sour face,", "Malicious, short, his heart a bitter place."]}, {"id": "E6.49.17", "lines": ["A coward, base, devoid of any glow,", "With vengeful thoughts and lies in constant flow."]}, {"id": "E6.49.18", "lines": ["With squinting eyes of green and teeth too great,", "And like a wolf, a crooked, shambling gait.”"]}, {"id": "E6.49.19", "lines": ["The Mobadan were amazed to hear him speak,", "And searched through city, stronghold, field, and creek."]}, {"id": "E6.49.20", "lines": ["They sought among the mighty and the small,", "At last a man brought tidings to the hall."]}, {"id": "E6.49.21", "lines": ["“I found a man like this upon the way;", "Command, and I will bring him here for Rey.”"]}, {"id": "E6.49.22", "lines": ["The king had him brought in; they laughed aloud,", "Both court and army in the gathered crowd."]}, {"id": "E6.49.23", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Tell your deeds, that I may learn", "What evil fires within your spirit burn.”"]}, {"id": "E6.49.24", "lines": ["The man replied, “I never cease from ill;", "I lack all wisdom, honor, truth, goodwill."]}, {"id": "E6.49.25", "lines": ["Whatever people say, I twist awry,", "And make their flesh and souls in torment cry."]}, {"id": "E6.49.26", "lines": ["My stock is lies; I have no sense of right,", "And truth remains forever out of sight."]}, {"id": "E6.49.27", "lines": ["I shatter excellence wherever found,", "And cast the roots of bounty to the ground.”"]}, {"id": "E6.49.28", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “May your bad star endure,”", "And gave him Rey by royal writ made sure."]}, {"id": "E6.49.29", "lines": ["Through shame and vice that wretch rose to command;", "The scattered troops were placed beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "E6.49.30", "lines": ["He left the court, renowned for evil ways,", "And came to Rey to darken all its days."]}, {"id": "E6.49.31", "lines": ["Arriving there, he cast off fear of God,", "And made oppression blossom from his rod."]}, {"id": "E6.49.32", "lines": ["He ripped all roof-spouts down in cruel spite,", "That rains might rot their mudbrick walls by night;"]}, {"id": "E6.49.33", "lines": ["He ordered every household cat be slain,", "That vermin might devour the stored-up grain."]}, {"id": "E6.49.34", "lines": ["Wherever he went, a herald walked before,", "With threats of fire at every dwelling door."]}, {"id": "E6.49.35", "lines": ["“If cat or gutter still remains,” he said,", "“Your house shall burn, and stones shall strike your head.”"]}, {"id": "E6.49.36", "lines": ["He sought out even one small coin of gain,", "And plunged its hapless owner into pain."]}, {"id": "E6.49.37", "lines": ["Through fear they left their homes and turned away", "From all the settled land they loved in Rey."]}, {"id": "E6.49.38", "lines": ["When rain fell, not a gutter could be found;", "No watchman kept the city safe and sound."]}, {"id": "E6.49.39", "lines": ["Rey lay destroyed beneath that tyrant’s hand;", "The sun beat down upon that ruined land."]}, {"id": "E6.49.40", "lines": ["The city filled with anguish and despair;", "Its people were forgotten everywhere."]}, {"id": "E6.50.1", "lines": ["So matters stood until Farvardin came,", "And petals spread across the earth like flame."]}, {"id": "E6.50.2", "lines": ["The clouds shed tears as large and bright as hail,", "And tulips filled the valley and the vale."]}, {"id": "E6.50.3", "lines": ["The dales were dappled like a leopard’s hide,", "And earth wore Roman brocade far and wide."]}, {"id": "E6.50.4", "lines": ["The chieftains came to sport within the bowers,", "While deer and sheep went flocking to the flowers."]}, {"id": "E6.50.5", "lines": ["Khosrow beheld the garden’s opened gates,", "And waterbirds that played beside their mates."]}, {"id": "E6.50.6", "lines": ["He bade the karnays sound; attendants bore", "Perfume in ornate basins to the fore."]}, {"id": "E6.50.7", "lines": ["They sat upon the grass and called for wine,", "And decked their souls with joy in spring’s design."]}, {"id": "E6.50.8", "lines": ["Then clever Gurdiyeh brought a kitten near,", "So like a child the creature did appear."]}, {"id": "E6.50.9", "lines": ["A toy steed made of gold and silver shone,", "Whereon the kitten rode as on a throne."]}, {"id": "E6.50.10", "lines": ["Its ears bore rings; its claws were tulip-red,", "Its eyes drooped like a drinker’s in its head."]}, {"id": "E6.50.11", "lines": ["Its eyes were pitch-black, springlike was its face;", "It rode with golden trappings through the place."]}, {"id": "E6.50.12", "lines": ["The Shah laughed loud, and laughter filled the court;", "All hearts were captured by the playful sport."]}, {"id": "E6.50.13", "lines": ["He said to her, “What is your wish today,", "My gracious lady, what have you to say?”"]}, {"id": "E6.50.14", "lines": ["The clever dame bowed low and made her plea:", "“Great Shah, bestow the land of Rey on me."]}, {"id": "E6.50.15", "lines": ["Show wisdom, Shah; release sad hearts from grief,", "And give those woeful people swift relief."]}, {"id": "E6.50.16", "lines": ["Recall that wretched man from Rey today,", "And call him base and wicked in his way."]}, {"id": "E6.50.17", "lines": ["He slays all cats and tears each roof-spout down,", "And spreads despair through that deserted town.”"]}, {"id": "E6.50.18", "lines": ["Khosrow laughed loud to hear his lady plead:", "“You, bold of heart, before whom foes recede,"]}, {"id": "E6.50.19", "lines": ["I give you Rey, its city and its lands;", "Send there an upright man with just commands."]}, {"id": "E6.50.20", "lines": ["Recall that wretch of Ahriman’s own brood.”", "Her fortune flourished, by the king renewed."]}, {"id": "E6.51.1", "lines": ["Thereafter, when the Shah’s power spread wide,", "And all folk wished him well on every side,"]}, {"id": "E6.51.2", "lines": ["When other kings before his power bowed down,", "And liegmen prospered underneath his crown,"]}, {"id": "E6.51.3", "lines": ["He chose from Iran’s land, in ordered bands,", "Four times twelve thousand tried and warlike hands."]}, {"id": "E6.51.4", "lines": ["Brave Pahlevans, experienced in the fight,", "He called before his crown and royal light."]}, {"id": "E6.51.5", "lines": ["He opened ancient hoards of treasured gold,", "Filled once by Qobad and Pirooz of old."]}, {"id": "E6.51.6", "lines": ["He portioned all the world in quarters wide,", "Assigning towns and regions on each side."]}, {"id": "E6.51.7", "lines": ["Twelve thousand famous men, a chosen band,", "He sent to Rum’s frontiers to guard the land."]}, {"id": "E6.51.8", "lines": ["These shrewd, skilled horsemen, who each bore a blade,", "Were set to shield the marches from a raid,"]}, {"id": "E6.51.9", "lines": ["Lest Roman legions cross the frontier line", "And bring Iran to ruin and decline."]}, {"id": "E6.51.10", "lines": ["Each was to know his boundaries and worth,", "And keep his proper limits on the earth."]}, {"id": "E6.51.11", "lines": ["He chose twelve thousand seasoned men to stand,", "And sent them out to guard broad Zabul’s land."]}, {"id": "E6.51.12", "lines": ["They left rose gardens for a gloomy plain,", "And bore the Shah’s command through dust and pain."]}, {"id": "E6.51.13", "lines": ["He said, “If anyone shall leave the way,", "And, rash of tongue, in speech should go astray,"]}, {"id": "E6.51.14", "lines": ["Restore him to the path with courteous care;", "If worse, let bonds and prison be his share."]}, {"id": "E6.51.15", "lines": ["Send spies abroad to keep your knowledge bright;", "Set watch-posts round your camp by day and night."]}, {"id": "E6.51.16", "lines": ["Keep roads and borders watched; take care to keep", "Your tents well guarded every time you sleep.”"]}, {"id": "E6.51.17", "lines": ["He chose twelve thousand more, a valiant band,", "All trained in war, to serve at his command."]}, {"id": "E6.51.18", "lines": ["He gave them much advice and sent their bands", "To guard the route that led to Alan lands."]}, {"id": "E6.51.19", "lines": ["He charged them with the gateway of the North,", "Lest steppe marauders issue wildly forth."]}, {"id": "E6.51.20", "lines": ["He told the chiefs, “Be watchful; God defend", "Your lives and guide you safely to the end.”"]}, {"id": "E6.51.21", "lines": ["He chose twelve thousand warriors for command,", "And sent them east to guard Khorasan’s land."]}, {"id": "E6.51.22", "lines": ["He charged them: “From Heytal to Chin, let none", "March in, unless our leave be sought and won,"]}, {"id": "E6.51.23", "lines": ["Except the loyal, who observe my will,", "Who come with leave, their pledges to fulfill."]}, {"id": "E6.51.24", "lines": ["In every province I have treasure laid,", "To meet your wants, and see your wages paid."]}, {"id": "E6.51.25", "lines": ["When need appears, send word and rest secure;", "Be prudent, watchful, steadfast, and mature.”"]}, {"id": "E6.51.26", "lines": ["He had the royal treasury unsealed,", "And coins that Hormizd’s markings bore revealed."]}, {"id": "E6.51.27", "lines": ["He wept and gave those coins to those in need,", "And with that wealth the poor from want were freed."]}, {"id": "E6.51.28", "lines": ["He turned his wrath on Bandvi’s guilty crew,", "Those close to Gostaham and Zangwi too."]}, {"id": "E6.51.29", "lines": ["For they had sought his father’s blood to shed;", "He severed from each guilty trunk its head."]}, {"id": "E6.51.30", "lines": ["When wrath and vengeance both had reached their end,", "He turned to justice, seeking wrongs to mend."]}, {"id": "E6.51.31", "lines": ["He portioned day and night in quarters four,", "And ordered time that circles evermore."]}, {"id": "E6.51.32", "lines": ["One quarter he received a Mobad’s speech,", "Reporting all affairs within his reach."]}, {"id": "E6.51.33", "lines": ["If wrong among the people came to light,", "Or harm among the warriors met his sight,"]}, {"id": "E6.51.34", "lines": ["He sought the cause with justice as his guide,", "Then found the cure that law and right supplied."]}, {"id": "E6.51.35", "lines": ["Another quarter passed in song and lays,", "In minstrelsy and princely nights of praise."]}, {"id": "E6.51.36", "lines": ["A quiet, carefree session with the great,", "As mighty men should hold in royal state."]}, {"id": "E6.51.37", "lines": ["The third was prayer and praise to God Most High,", "The fourth, the study of the starry sky."]}, {"id": "E6.51.38", "lines": ["The nature and the paths of stars he sought,", "While star-readers stood near and guided thought."]}, {"id": "E6.51.39", "lines": ["Half of that share, through stretches of the night,", "He spent with Taraz’s beauties in delight."]}, {"id": "E6.51.40", "lines": ["He also portioned every month in four,", "That life might yield delight and wisdom more."]}, {"id": "E6.51.41", "lines": ["One part was riding, polo, bow in hand,", "With one great lord to learn and understand."]}, {"id": "E6.51.42", "lines": ["He hunted hill and plain, and so would thrive,", "His freshness and his vigor kept alive."]}, {"id": "E6.51.43", "lines": ["When he returned by daylight or by night,", "The wealthy decked his route for his delight."]}, {"id": "E6.51.44", "lines": ["Another share was chess and nard and lore,", "Of ancient heroes and the wars they bore."]}, {"id": "E6.51.45", "lines": ["The third was for learned writers and the wise,", "Who read old histories before his eyes."]}, {"id": "E6.51.46", "lines": ["The fourth he gave to envoys sent by kings,", "And wrote replies concerning weighty things."]}, {"id": "E6.51.47", "lines": ["With robes of honor, satisfied, they rode", "Back from the court upon their homeward road."]}, {"id": "E6.51.48", "lines": ["That day he issued writs for all the lands,", "And gave them to the chiefs with royal hands."]}, {"id": "E6.51.49", "lines": ["When Farvardin brought in the New Year’s light,", "He stored a secret treasure out of sight."]}, {"id": "E6.52.1", "lines": ["When he had reigned five years, he had no peer,", "And in the sixth a child to him drew near."]}, {"id": "E6.52.2", "lines": ["For Caesar’s moonlike daughter bore a son,", "The Shah’s own likeness in the little one."]}, {"id": "E6.52.3", "lines": ["No prayer-call then was whispered in the ear;", "That custom was not yet established here."]}, {"id": "E6.52.4", "lines": ["For princes reared in luxury and grace,", "Two names were given in that ancient place."]}, {"id": "E6.52.5", "lines": ["One name in secret to the child was said,", "The other spoken for the realm instead."]}, {"id": "E6.52.6", "lines": ["The Shah named him Qobad in whispers low,", "But called him Shiruyeh for all to know."]}, {"id": "E6.52.7", "lines": ["The child was born when three night-watches passed;", "Star-gazers came, the horoscope to cast."]}, {"id": "E6.52.8", "lines": ["Khosrow Parviz asked, “What have they seen,", "The star-readers who judge what signs may mean?"]}, {"id": "E6.52.9", "lines": ["What shall result from this young prince’s birth?", "What is his horoscope upon this earth?”"]}, {"id": "E6.52.10", "lines": ["They said, “No man escapes the sky’s decree;", "The turning sphere determines what shall be."]}, {"id": "E6.52.11", "lines": ["Through this child all the earth shall suffer sore,", "And turmoil through its towns and fields shall pour."]}, {"id": "E6.52.12", "lines": ["His army will not bless him in his day;", "He too will leave the holy, rightful way."]}, {"id": "E6.52.13", "lines": ["What need remains to speak of further woe?", "The stars have shown what no man wished to know.”"]}, {"id": "E6.52.14", "lines": ["The outcome of their study and their speech", "Brought grief beyond the Shah’s accustomed reach."]}, {"id": "E6.52.15", "lines": ["He said, “Look better, sages of the sky;", "Take care that none of this abroad should fly."]}, {"id": "E6.52.16", "lines": ["Before Iran’s great chiefs, speak not one word;", "Let no dark rumor through the court be heard.”"]}, {"id": "E6.52.17", "lines": ["He took that evil horoscope to heart,", "And sealed it with his signet, set apart."]}, {"id": "E6.52.18", "lines": ["The matter filled his heart with heavy dread;", "A week he gave no audience, bowed his head."]}, {"id": "E6.52.19", "lines": ["He left the chase and wine, withdrew from sight;", "The Shah sat bowed beneath his care each night."]}, {"id": "E6.52.20", "lines": ["The chieftains gathered round the Mobad then,", "And questioned him among the lordly men."]}, {"id": "E6.52.21", "lines": ["They asked what grief had clouded royal cheer,", "And why the Shah no longer would appear."]}, {"id": "E6.52.22", "lines": ["The Mobad came before the Shah and told", "How, troubled, all the army’s heart grew cold."]}, {"id": "E6.52.23", "lines": ["He answered, “Fate has troubled all my mind;", "The turning sky has grown severe, unkind."]}, {"id": "E6.52.24", "lines": ["The star-readers have spoken words of dread,", "And I resent the heavens overhead.”"]}, {"id": "E6.52.25", "lines": ["He bade the keeper bring the silk in sight,", "Whereon the stars had traced that fateful night."]}, {"id": "E6.52.26", "lines": ["The Mobad read the chart with sorrowing eye,", "And stood in awe beneath the turning sky."]}, {"id": "E6.52.27", "lines": ["At last he said, “God is enough; He stands", "Beyond what human reason understands."]}, {"id": "E6.52.28", "lines": ["If circling heaven turns a hostile face,", "No grief can drive the evil from its place."]}, {"id": "E6.52.29", "lines": ["Why should the wise make sorrow more severe?", "May nothing but delight be yours to hear."]}, {"id": "E6.52.30", "lines": ["Let not their words within your heart abide;", "The Maker be your comfort and your guide.”"]}, {"id": "E6.52.31", "lines": ["Then Khosrow smiled and, shaking off his gloom,", "Summoned a trusty scribe into the room."]}, {"id": "E6.52.32", "lines": ["He bade him write: “Great Caesar, joy is spread;", "For Maryam now has borne a prince,” it read."]}, {"id": "E6.52.33", "lines": ["“He has no peer; the throne and wisdom’s art,", "With skill and bounty, suit his royal heart."]}, {"id": "E6.52.34", "lines": ["As I rejoice, join in my celebration;", "You too are worthy of a kingly station.”"]}, {"id": "E6.53.1", "lines": ["When Caesar read the royal letter through,", "And saw Parviz’s signature there too,"]}, {"id": "E6.53.2", "lines": ["He bade the karnays sound before his gate,", "And Rum resounded through its wide estate."]}, {"id": "E6.53.3", "lines": ["They decked the hills, the roads, and every way,", "In honor of Shiruyeh’s auspicious day."]}, {"id": "E6.53.4", "lines": ["The minstrels’ voices rose in joyful sound,", "And Roman gladness filled the realm around."]}, {"id": "E6.53.5", "lines": ["They brought their crosses to the royal gate,", "With flowers’ fragrant breath to celebrate."]}, {"id": "E6.53.6", "lines": ["For seven days they drank with harp and wine,", "Rejoicing over Shiruyeh’s royal sign."]}, {"id": "E6.53.7", "lines": ["Upon the eighth, he summoned to his court", "The caravan and drivers for transport."]}, {"id": "E6.53.8", "lines": ["A hundred camels bore silver in train,", "And fifty more bore gold across the plain."]}, {"id": "E6.53.9", "lines": ["Two hundred Roman brocades shone with gold,", "Their weave like solid treasure to behold."]}, {"id": "E6.53.10", "lines": ["He sent forth forty tables, richly made,", "With coral feet and golden work inlaid."]}, {"id": "E6.53.11", "lines": ["He sent gold beasts and silver beasts beside,", "Full forty, gems on breast and eye applied."]}, {"id": "E6.53.12", "lines": ["To Maryam he sent a peacock, cast", "In gold, with jewels at its side amassed."]}, {"id": "E6.53.13", "lines": ["Soft Roman silk, and one rare basin, bossed", "With pearl and zabarjad at wondrous cost."]}, {"id": "E6.53.14", "lines": ["He sent as tribute four full million more,", "Gold coins of Rum from Caesar’s guarded store."]}, {"id": "E6.53.15", "lines": ["With forty watchful Romans set to guard,", "The treasure moved beneath their close regard."]}, {"id": "E6.53.16", "lines": ["Khanagi led, a man of judgment sound,", "Whose equal for wise counsel was not found."]}, {"id": "E6.53.17", "lines": ["Ten caravans bore treasure in their train,", "Like moving hills that crossed the Roman plain."]}, {"id": "E6.53.18", "lines": ["The conquering Shah received this new report:", "Now Caesar’s envoy neared the royal court."]}, {"id": "E6.53.19", "lines": ["He bade brave Farrokh, lord of Nimruz, ride,", "A loyal frontier chief of noble pride."]}, {"id": "E6.53.20", "lines": ["A warrior, luster of the Shah’s array,", "He mounted with the chosen men that day."]}, {"id": "E6.53.21", "lines": ["With him went horsemen wearing golden helms,", "The shining chosen of Iran’s broad realms."]}, {"id": "E6.53.22", "lines": ["When Khanagi beheld that gleaming file,", "He came before them in a stranger’s style."]}, {"id": "E6.53.23", "lines": ["They reached the Shah, the palace, and the hall;", "The envoy saw the splendor of it all."]}, {"id": "E6.53.24", "lines": ["They saw the Shah’s fair face, his splendid throne,", "And bowed their heads to earth, their homage shown."]}, {"id": "E6.53.25", "lines": ["Khanagi, with his face upon the dust,", "Praised Khosrow as the lord of right and trust."]}, {"id": "E6.53.26", "lines": ["“O lord of justice, holy king,” he cried,", "“May conquering God forever be your guide."]}, {"id": "E6.53.27", "lines": ["May you be Shah and generous every hour;", "May Fortune guard your crown and royal power.”"]}, {"id": "E6.53.28", "lines": ["The chiefs arose and made a place nearby,", "That he might speak beneath the monarch’s eye."]}, {"id": "E6.53.29", "lines": ["He said, “Whose wisdom can be like your own?", "You shine beyond the sun in heaven’s zone."]}, {"id": "E6.53.30", "lines": ["Your life outlasts the speaking soul’s own light,", "Enduring past its span in royal might."]}, {"id": "E6.53.31", "lines": ["May earth not lack a king so bright as you;", "May time bear fruit from all you say and do."]}, {"id": "E6.53.32", "lines": ["May none behold a day against your will;", "Your name is written on the sun there still."]}, {"id": "E6.53.33", "lines": ["May earth not lack your head, your crown’s command;", "Nor may your army vanish from the land."]}, {"id": "E6.53.34", "lines": ["From Caesar, salutation to your crown;", "From us, all praise to you of high renown."]}, {"id": "E6.53.35", "lines": ["May he who finds no joy beneath your shade", "Be left without the light that day has made."]}, {"id": "E6.53.36", "lines": ["From Rum, with gifts and tribute, we are here;", "Philosophers from home with us appear."]}, {"id": "E6.53.37", "lines": ["Let none be grieved by us or what we bring;", "Accept these gifts and blessings from our king.”"]}, {"id": "E6.53.38", "lines": ["The Shah smiled on that envoy, versed in thought,", "And had a golden seat before him brought."]}, {"id": "E6.53.39", "lines": ["Khosrow consigned the gifts to treasury care,", "And said, “Such toil was more than you should bear.”"]}, {"id": "E6.53.40", "lines": ["Then to Kharrad Barzin the monarch said,", "“Before the army let this scroll be read.”"]}, {"id": "E6.53.41", "lines": ["The eloquent scribe perused the heading, then", "Read Caesar’s royal letter to the men:"]}, {"id": "E6.53.42", "lines": ["“To great Khosrow Parviz, exalted king,", "Whose crown and wisdom God’s own favors bring,"]}, {"id": "E6.53.43", "lines": ["Great sovereign, born of Hormizd’s royal line,", "Whose throne and crown with sacred glory shine,"]}, {"id": "E6.53.44", "lines": ["From Caesar, father to your honored wife,", "May fame and power attend you all your life."]}, {"id": "E6.53.45", "lines": ["May height and grace and victory be yours,", "And every day be New Year at your doors."]}, {"id": "E6.53.46", "lines": ["May Iran, Turan, and all realms obey,", "While rival sovereignty is swept away."]}, {"id": "E6.53.47", "lines": ["May you be glad in heart and bright in soul,", "In wisdom old, while youthful fortunes roll."]}, {"id": "E6.53.48", "lines": ["From Kioumars’ throne and Hushang’s ancient line,", "Through Tahmuras, may holy glory shine."]}, {"id": "E6.53.49", "lines": ["May father after father, son by son,", "Keep royal stock beneath the circling sun."]}, {"id": "E6.53.50", "lines": ["May God and chiefs of realm and Faith agree", "To bless the glory of this royal tree."]}, {"id": "E6.53.51", "lines": ["No prince or mounted warrior equals you;", "No painted hall has held your peer in view."]}, {"id": "E6.53.52", "lines": ["You have all manliness and upright grace;", "May no decline within your soul find place."]}, {"id": "E6.53.53", "lines": ["In Hindustan, Iran, and Turan wide,", "From Turkistan to Rum on every side,"]}, {"id": "E6.53.54", "lines": ["God gave you birth with purity and light;", "No holy mother bore a son so bright."]}, {"id": "E6.53.55", "lines": ["When Fereydoon gave Iraj Iran’s land,", "And placed the realm beneath his royal hand,"]}, {"id": "E6.53.56", "lines": ["He honored Iraj first and cleansed his heart", "From guile and gloom and every crooked art."]}, {"id": "E6.53.57", "lines": ["You have no want, and Fortune lights your way;", "With greatness, manhood, charm in your array."]}, {"id": "E6.53.58", "lines": ["As though God gave you these from His own store,", "And took the manly fame that others bore."]}, {"id": "E6.53.59", "lines": ["Your house has fostered virtue, grace, and giving;", "None from this stock brought grief upon the living."]}, {"id": "E6.53.60", "lines": ["Your foes have borne their taxes, dues, and loads,", "Like burdened oxen trudging dusty roads."]}, {"id": "E6.53.61", "lines": ["Since Anooshirvan; may his soul stay young;", "No equal from the mighty kings has sprung."]}, {"id": "E6.53.62", "lines": ["That prudent king raised bulwarks from the deep,", "And let the world in guarded quiet sleep."]}, {"id": "E6.53.63", "lines": ["He cleared the elm wood of the Turkish foe,", "And blessings came from both the high and low."]}, {"id": "E6.53.64", "lines": ["Arabs and Indians, Iranians too,", "Put on their belts for service, firm and true."]}, {"id": "E6.53.65", "lines": ["From Chin’s sea to the Khazar land he reigned,", "And every foe of Iran was restrained."]}, {"id": "E6.53.66", "lines": ["From Armenia to the western gate,", "His name made crowned and mighty rulers wait."]}, {"id": "E6.53.67", "lines": ["Heytal, Chakh, Samarkand, and Turkistan", "Accepted lordship from the Shah of Iran."]}, {"id": "E6.53.68", "lines": ["For Shahs were sprung from Fereydoon’s own line;", "All others strayed from justice’s design."]}, {"id": "E6.53.69", "lines": ["By this new bond now joined between our lines,", "New glory round my royal forehead shines."]}, {"id": "E6.53.70", "lines": ["As thirsty men rejoice when water springs,", "So I rejoice, bound to the king of kings."]}, {"id": "E6.53.71", "lines": ["Let your great wisdom make me glorious too,", "And answer what I ask this day of you."]}, {"id": "E6.53.72", "lines": ["I ask the king to grant this wish of mine,", "A small request before his power divine."]}, {"id": "E6.53.73", "lines": ["Christ’s holy Cross within your treasure stands,", "Brought long ago from Roman border-lands."]}, {"id": "E6.53.74", "lines": ["For generations kept beneath your care,", "Restore it now, and grant a father’s prayer."]}, {"id": "E6.53.75", "lines": ["By doing so, you favor every soul,", "And win the grateful blessing of the whole."]}, {"id": "E6.53.76", "lines": ["They will declare: ‘Let time and earth no more", "Exist without the king whom we adore.’"]}, {"id": "E6.53.77", "lines": ["To Khosrow I shall give my thanks, and pray", "Through three night-watches and throughout the day."]}, {"id": "E6.53.78", "lines": ["Accept my tribute and the gifts I send,", "My thanks for your acceptance I extend."]}, {"id": "E6.53.79", "lines": ["May you behold no evil person’s face;", "May feasts and ritual gain a brighter grace."]}, {"id": "E6.53.80", "lines": ["Our Faith will shine wherever men have trod;", "On Sundays we shall pray and worship God."]}, {"id": "E6.53.81", "lines": ["The mourners lay their faces on the Cross,", "And rub their locks upon it for their loss."]}, {"id": "E6.53.82", "lines": ["Then we shall wash old vengeance from the heart,", "And let the ancient enmity depart."]}, {"id": "E6.53.83", "lines": ["The feud with Salm and Tur in days of old,", "From Fereydoon’s time, kept its bitter hold."]}, {"id": "E6.53.84", "lines": ["Our realm will rest from raids and ancient feuds,", "From grief that still through every household broods."]}, {"id": "E6.53.85", "lines": ["Our wives and children have been carried far;", "Our hearts have known the wound, and bear the scar."]}, {"id": "E6.53.86", "lines": ["But our new kinship has now calmed the world,", "And passion’s storming banner now is furled."]}, {"id": "E6.53.87", "lines": ["May the world’s Maker send His blessings down;", "May earth bestow its blessing on your crown.”"]}, {"id": "E6.53.88", "lines": ["The Shah heard Caesar’s letter through and through,", "And secret joy within his spirit grew."]}, {"id": "E6.53.89", "lines": ["He praised Khanagi: “Set reserve aside;", "No longer as a stranger here abide.”"]}, {"id": "E6.53.90", "lines": ["They cleared two halls; each chamber richly stored", "With all the envoy needed, bed and board."]}, {"id": "E6.53.91", "lines": ["He saw the lodging chosen for his stay,", "And kept beside the Shah from day to day."]}, {"id": "E6.53.92", "lines": ["At feast, with wine, in hunting and at rest,", "A month he stayed, a glad and willing guest."]}, {"id": "E6.54.1", "lines": ["When one month passed, Khosrow Parviz wrote,", "And sent to Caesar this considered note."]}, {"id": "E6.54.2", "lines": ["He opened: “May the great ones’ blessings rest", "On those who keep a pure heart in their breast,"]}, {"id": "E6.54.3", "lines": ["On those who see God’s work in good and ill,", "And fear none else, but praise His sovereign will."]}, {"id": "E6.54.4", "lines": ["He is the Master of the sun and sky,", "Who holds the turning heavenly sphere on high."]}, {"id": "E6.54.5", "lines": ["First, all the praises written in your scroll", "I have received with gladness in my soul."]}, {"id": "E6.54.6", "lines": ["Your splendid treasure I received entire,", "But wish you had not borne such toil and fire."]}, {"id": "E6.54.7", "lines": ["Since holy God has raised your realm so high,", "It reaches Samak in the starry sky,"]}, {"id": "E6.54.8", "lines": ["Above Hind, Saklab, Chin and Khazar’s fame,", "Great manhood, wisdom, faith adorn your name."]}, {"id": "E6.54.9", "lines": ["When I was troubled, you assisted me,", "And wisely set my heart from sorrow free."]}, {"id": "E6.54.10", "lines": ["Your kinship and your virtuous daughter’s grace", "Bring joy through this new bond of royal race."]}, {"id": "E6.54.11", "lines": ["The other chiefs all turned their backs in scorn,", "And passed me by as one but meanly born."]}, {"id": "E6.54.12", "lines": ["But you became a father in my need,", "More noble, kind, and generous in deed."]}, {"id": "E6.54.13", "lines": ["You spoke of Shiruyeh, my strength and stay;", "I heard your words and blessed you straightaway."]}, {"id": "E6.54.14", "lines": ["I called you pure in faith, and praised you then,", "A follower of your creed among its men."]}, {"id": "E6.54.15", "lines": ["Next, what you wrote concerning holy rites,", "Your Sundays, fasts, and prayers through sacred nights,"]}, {"id": "E6.54.16", "lines": ["The scribe has read to me; I must confess", "Your words are apt, acceptable, no less."]}, {"id": "E6.54.17", "lines": ["I feel no shame for Hushang’s ancient way;", "The world has seen no better to this day."]}, {"id": "E6.54.18", "lines": ["It teaches justice, goodness, reverence, love,", "And observation of the stars above."]}, {"id": "E6.54.19", "lines": ["I know that God exists, and ever try", "To follow justice while the heavens fly."]}, {"id": "E6.54.20", "lines": ["We do not grant that God has partner, son,", "Or consort; He is ever only One."]}, {"id": "E6.54.21", "lines": ["Though thought cannot encompass Him in view,", "He guides us to His being, ever true."]}, {"id": "E6.54.22", "lines": ["Now as for ancient tales recalled by you", "About Christ’s Cross and what you ask me to do,"]}, {"id": "E6.54.23", "lines": ["A sound belief takes reason as its guide,", "And never casts clear judgment far aside."]}, {"id": "E6.54.24", "lines": ["You say men mourn their Prophet crucified,", "And call Him Son of God, though there He died."]}, {"id": "E6.54.25", "lines": ["If He was son, He went to His own sire;", "Why should that rotten wood your grief inspire?"]}, {"id": "E6.54.26", "lines": ["If Caesar speaks such folly in his scroll,", "The elders’ laughter will consume the whole."]}, {"id": "E6.54.27", "lines": ["The Cross that kings had placed within the store", "Is not a thing that you should labor for."]}, {"id": "E6.54.28", "lines": ["If I sent Rum that wood, then far and wide", "My land would laugh at me on every side."]}, {"id": "E6.54.29", "lines": ["For Maryam’s sake, they would declare that I", "Had turned to Christ, a bishop in their eye."]}, {"id": "E6.54.30", "lines": ["Whatever else you wish, the road lies clear;", "Ask, and my royal favor shall appear."]}, {"id": "E6.54.31", "lines": ["I welcomed all the gifts that you have sent,", "And know the toil on such a tribute spent."]}, {"id": "E6.54.32", "lines": ["I gave them to Shiruyeh, to begin", "A treasury with all you gathered in."]}, {"id": "E6.54.33", "lines": ["I am concerned for Rum and Iran’s fate;", "My thoughts on both keep vigil, soon and late."]}, {"id": "E6.54.34", "lines": ["I fear Shiruyeh, mighty in his reign,", "May bring both Rum and Iran grief and pain."]}, {"id": "E6.54.35", "lines": ["From Salm’s old feud and Iskandar’s fierce hate;", "That vengeful wolf; new grief may lie in wait."]}, {"id": "E6.54.36", "lines": ["With feuds both new and old, the ancient strife", "May wake again, and trouble every life."]}, {"id": "E6.54.37", "lines": ["You asked about your daughter, whose fair grace", "Brings honor to your crown and royal place."]}, {"id": "E6.54.38", "lines": ["She strives in Christ’s own faith from day to day,", "And heeds but little of the words I say."]}, {"id": "E6.54.39", "lines": ["At ease, she joys in this new royal line;", "May God preserve your crown and make it shine."]}, {"id": "E6.54.40", "lines": ["May Fortune rest forever at your side,", "And may no evil near your throne abide.”"]}, {"id": "E6.54.41", "lines": ["The Shah set down his sign on what he wrote;", "Kharrad Barzin kept safe each line and note."]}, {"id": "E6.54.42", "lines": ["Then treasure-hoards were opened, stored away", "By Khosrow through full many a former day."]}, {"id": "E6.54.43", "lines": ["One hundred sixty sacks held gems concealed,", "Packed hard as stones and with the signet sealed."]}, {"id": "E6.54.44", "lines": ["Each bag was valued at the same amount:", "One hundred thousand silver coins by count."]}, {"id": "E6.54.45", "lines": ["Besides, one hundred forty thousand more", "Fine Chin brocades came from the treasury store."]}, {"id": "E6.54.46", "lines": ["Some cloth was gold, with jeweled patterns bright,", "And five hundred pearls like drops of light."]}, {"id": "E6.54.47", "lines": ["One hundred sixty rubies, seed-red in hue,", "Were such as skillful jewelers prize and view."]}, {"id": "E6.54.48", "lines": ["From Hind and Chin and Mesr fine fabrics came,", "With Barbar, Shushtar stuffs of costly name."]}, {"id": "E6.54.49", "lines": ["Three hundred camel-loads of treasures great", "He sent to Caesar in imperial state."]}, {"id": "E6.54.50", "lines": ["To Khanagi he gave a robe more grand", "Than gifts to kin or strangers in the land."]}, {"id": "E6.54.51", "lines": ["With garments, steeds and thrones in rich display,", "And trappings, loaded camels went their way."]}, {"id": "E6.54.52", "lines": ["A hundred camels bore that rich array;", "Ten loads were gold for him to take away."]}, {"id": "E6.54.53", "lines": ["He gave philosophers both gold and more,", "With silver and rich gifts from treasure store."]}, {"id": "E6.54.54", "lines": ["The embassy departed, glad of heart;", "The chiefs blessed Khosrow as they saw them part."]}]}, {"id": "E7", "title": "The Story of Khosrow Parviz and Shirin", "summary": "11 sections · 675 couplets", "path": "/poem/e7/", "couplets": [{"id": "E7.1.1", "lines": ["Now I resume the histories of old,", "Of Shirin’s love and Khosrow’s reign retold."]}, {"id": "E7.1.2", "lines": ["This ancient book, grown old, records the deeds", "And words of upright men for him who reads."]}, {"id": "E7.1.3", "lines": ["I now renew this record of the past,", "Memorial of the mighty, made to last."]}, {"id": "E7.1.4", "lines": ["Full sixty thousand couplets I have wrought,", "A lasting monument of verse and thought."]}, {"id": "E7.1.5", "lines": ["No Persian book of verse on earth can show", "Such vast endurance in its measured flow."]}, {"id": "E7.1.6", "lines": ["Sift all these lines, and critics will agree", "Five hundred flawed ones are the most they see!"]}, {"id": "E7.1.7", "lines": ["Yet that world-ruling king of exalted birth,", "Who shines supreme above the lords of earth,"]}, {"id": "E7.1.8", "lines": ["Gave these old tales no heed; the fault was laid", "On evil fortune and the slanderer’s trade."]}, {"id": "E7.1.9", "lines": ["They envied all my labor and its song,", "And poisoned royal judgment with their wrong."]}, {"id": "E7.1.10", "lines": ["But when the Shah’s chief reads these tales with rare", "Discernment, and finds all their worth laid bare,"]}, {"id": "E7.1.11", "lines": ["His bounty then may lift my heart from fear;", "May no foe’s malice ever reach his ear."]}, {"id": "E7.1.12", "lines": ["Then he may speak of me before the throne,", "And let the seed bear fruit that toil has sown."]}, {"id": "E7.1.13", "lines": ["May crown and throne endure while ages run,", "His star of Fortune brighter than the sun."]}, {"id": "E7.1.14", "lines": ["A learned dehqan, old and wise, once said:", "“By knowledge humankind is helped and led."]}, {"id": "E7.1.15", "lines": ["Both grief and joy are ours to undergo;", "The salt and bitter, too, our tongues must know."]}, {"id": "E7.1.16", "lines": ["For youths, though wise and noble from their birth,", "Win only through experience their worth."]}, {"id": "E7.1.17", "lines": ["Experience brings excellence to view,", "The key to every task we would pursue.”"]}, {"id": "E7.2.1", "lines": ["While still his father lived, Parviz was bold,", "A youthful Pahlevan of royal mold."]}, {"id": "E7.2.2", "lines": ["Shirin was then his mate, his living light,", "Dear as the pupils shining in his sight."]}, {"id": "E7.2.3", "lines": ["Among the moon-faced beauties of that place,", "No other form could win his heart or grace."]}, {"id": "E7.2.4", "lines": ["As king, he spent a time far from her side,", "At war with Bahram, restless, forced to ride."]}, {"id": "E7.2.5", "lines": ["She mourned his waning love; she could not sleep,", "And, while he stayed away, would wake and weep."]}, {"id": "E7.2.6", "lines": ["One day the Shah resolved to hunt the plain,", "As kings had done through many an ancient reign."]}, {"id": "E7.2.7", "lines": ["The hunt was furnished with imperial care,", "With pomp and servants gathered everywhere."]}, {"id": "E7.2.8", "lines": ["Three hundred steeds, all decked in beaten gold,", "Were led before the king, high-necked and bold."]}, {"id": "E7.2.9", "lines": ["Eleven hundred sixty servants came,", "On foot, with javelins, to serve his name."]}, {"id": "E7.2.10", "lines": ["A thousand forty men bore club and blade,", "With jowshans worn beneath their rich brocade."]}, {"id": "E7.2.11", "lines": ["Seven hundred falconers came in train,", "With hawks and falcons for the hunting plain."]}, {"id": "E7.2.12", "lines": ["Sparrow-hawks too they carried for the prey,", "While mounted keepers followed on the way."]}, {"id": "E7.2.13", "lines": ["Three hundred men who tended cheetahs rode,", "Behind the hawks along the hunting road."]}, {"id": "E7.2.14", "lines": ["They led full seventy lions, pards in train,", "All trained, their mouths restrained by golden chain."]}, {"id": "E7.2.15", "lines": ["Each beast in Chinese brocade showed royal pride,", "With folds of silk drawn tightly round its hide."]}, {"id": "E7.2.16", "lines": ["Seven hundred hounds for deer were kept in line,", "Their golden collars cast a radiant shine."]}, {"id": "E7.2.17", "lines": ["Behind them, borne on camels, rode a throng", "Of minstrels, full two thousand, skilled in song."]}, {"id": "E7.2.18", "lines": ["Gold crowns were set above each singer’s brow,", "Five hundred camels bore the tentage now."]}, {"id": "E7.2.19", "lines": ["Those bore the seats, pavilions, screens for rest,", "And tents prepared for every beast and guest."]}, {"id": "E7.2.20", "lines": ["Two hundred slaves were there to tend the fire,", "And lift the censers with their perfumed pyre."]}, {"id": "E7.2.21", "lines": ["They burned rich aloeswood; the road was sweet", "With ambergris and smoke beneath their feet."]}, {"id": "E7.2.22", "lines": ["Before the Shah two hundred youths advanced,", "By saffron blooms and narcissus enhanced."]}, {"id": "E7.2.23", "lines": ["They bore their flowers in ordered, bright array,", "And fragrance reached the monarch on his way."]}, {"id": "E7.2.24", "lines": ["One hundred water-bearers led the train,", "And sprinkled down the dust along the plain."]}, {"id": "E7.2.25", "lines": ["Rose-water fell across the scented ground,", "And ambergris spread fragrance all around."]}, {"id": "E7.2.26", "lines": ["So sudden gusts would leave no dusty trace", "Upon the king of that auspicious race."]}, {"id": "E7.2.27", "lines": ["Three hundred youthful princes rode beside,", "In yellow, red, and violet-dyed pride."]}, {"id": "E7.2.28", "lines": ["The king rode, Kaviani standard high,", "With crown and earrings flashing toward the sky."]}, {"id": "E7.2.29", "lines": ["Gold cloth, a torque, bright armlets met the sight,", "A gold belt’s jeweled fittings flashed with light."]}, {"id": "E7.2.30", "lines": ["When Shirin heard, “The mighty Shah is near,", "Before his army, coming toward us here,”"]}, {"id": "E7.2.31", "lines": ["She put a yellow musk-sweet vestment on,", "And made her face like blooms at early dawn."]}, {"id": "E7.2.32", "lines": ["She wore a Roman robe of crimson thread,", "On cloth of gold, with jeweled patterns spread."]}, {"id": "E7.2.33", "lines": ["Upon her head she set a royal crown,", "With Pahlevan-bright jewels blazing down."]}, {"id": "E7.2.34", "lines": ["She left the pleasant hall and climbed the roof,", "Her heart from every happiness aloof."]}, {"id": "E7.2.35", "lines": ["She waited there until the Shah drew near,", "Then tears ran down the face he once held dear."]}, {"id": "E7.2.36", "lines": ["At sight of him she rose to all her height,", "And spoke of former sweetness, love, and light."]}, {"id": "E7.2.37", "lines": ["Her ailing eyes washed cheeks like flowers in rain;", "The flowers were sound, the eyes were sick with pain."]}, {"id": "E7.2.38", "lines": ["All tears and beauty, she began her tale;", "In Pahlavi she voiced her love’s travail:"]}, {"id": "E7.2.39", "lines": ["“O mighty lion, leader in the fight,", "Great conqueror, the pride of warriors’ might,"]}, {"id": "E7.2.40", "lines": ["Where is that love, that flood of tears you bore,", "Which seeing Shirin healed in days before?"]}, {"id": "E7.2.41", "lines": ["Where are those days that into night would creep,", "With smiling lips, while heart and eyes would weep?"]}, {"id": "E7.2.42", "lines": ["Where are our bonds, our covenant of old?", "Where are the vows and oaths we used to hold?”"]}, {"id": "E7.2.43", "lines": ["Her bitter, sorrowing tears began to flow,", "And stained her saffron robe with all her woe."]}, {"id": "E7.2.44", "lines": ["Khosrow beheld her tears; his own would run;", "His face turned yellow, likened to the sun."]}, {"id": "E7.2.45", "lines": ["He sent a led horse decked in beaten gold,", "And forty trusted Roman eunuchs bold."]}, {"id": "E7.2.46", "lines": ["They took her to his bower of gold and light,", "A dwelling rich with jewels shining bright."]}, {"id": "E7.2.47", "lines": ["Then to the hunting plain he rode along,", "With drinking comrades, wine and strains of song."]}, {"id": "E7.2.48", "lines": ["When hill and field had yielded all their pleasure,", "He turned back toward the city at his leisure."]}, {"id": "E7.2.49", "lines": ["The roads were dressed to welcome him from chase,", "While karnays, songs, and voices filled the place."]}, {"id": "E7.2.50", "lines": ["The king, the fruit of that exalted line,", "Rode toward his palace under Fortune’s sign."]}, {"id": "E7.2.51", "lines": ["From his bower Shirin came, her love expressed;", "She kissed his feet, the ground, and then his breast."]}, {"id": "E7.2.52", "lines": ["He bade the Mobad: “Keep reproach behind,", "And let no censure cloud your priestly mind;"]}, {"id": "E7.2.53", "lines": ["Give her to Khosrow; let the tidings ring,", "And to the world this joyful message bring.”"]}, {"id": "E7.2.54", "lines": ["He took her as his wife by custom old,", "The proper rite their age was taught to hold."]}, {"id": "E7.3.1", "lines": ["When news of Khosrow’s marriage reached the court,", "The nobles and the troops heard this report:"]}, {"id": "E7.3.2", "lines": ["They heard, “Shirin is in the royal bower;", "The old affair has gained its former power.”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.3", "lines": ["The city grieved; in every street and square", "Rose curses, pain, and sorrow everywhere."]}, {"id": "E7.3.4", "lines": ["For three days none of them came to his hall;", "At dawn upon the fourth he sent his call."]}, {"id": "E7.3.5", "lines": ["He seated them where noble men should meet,", "Then spoke with anxious care from his high seat:"]}, {"id": "E7.3.6", "lines": ["“These past few days I have not seen you here;", "Your absence grieves my heart and dims its cheer."]}, {"id": "E7.3.7", "lines": ["Your hurt has hurt me; sorrow fills my mind,", "And in your grief no peace my heart can find.”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.8", "lines": ["He spoke, but none replied to what was said;", "They held their tongues and bowed each silent head."]}, {"id": "E7.3.9", "lines": ["Aggrieved, they turned with anger in their gaze", "Toward the Mobad, versed in sacred ways."]}, {"id": "E7.3.10", "lines": ["He read their looks, then rose in open sight,", "And voiced their bitter grievance and their plight."]}, {"id": "E7.3.11", "lines": ["He said, “O generous king of upright name,", "You came in youth to Fortune, crown, and fame."]}, {"id": "E7.3.12", "lines": ["You have seen Fortune’s kindness and its force,", "And heard how rulers’ deeds may shape their course."]}, {"id": "E7.3.13", "lines": ["Now royal stock is stained, its greatness gone;", "No former glory in that line lives on."]}, {"id": "E7.3.14", "lines": ["When sire is pure but mother’s virtue fails,", "No pure fruit ripens where her vice prevails."]}, {"id": "E7.3.15", "lines": ["None seeks the straight within a crooked way;", "Through uprightness, all faults are swept away."]}, {"id": "E7.3.16", "lines": ["Our hearts are sad: since a Div, fierce and great,", "Now sits beside the guardian of the state."]}, {"id": "E7.3.17", "lines": ["Had no other woman lived within the land,", "How could Iran’s Shah grant her his royal hand?"]}, {"id": "E7.3.18", "lines": ["If Shirin only left the royal sight,", "Your face would fill the courts and world with light."]}, {"id": "E7.3.19", "lines": ["Your wise forefathers, upright, clean of thought,", "Would never turn toward what the Shah has sought.”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.20", "lines": ["He spoke at length; the king made no reply,", "But kept his counsel, stern and seated high."]}, {"id": "E7.3.21", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “At dawn we come again;", "Perhaps the Shah will answer all the men."]}, {"id": "E7.3.22", "lines": ["Our speech today has lasted long; we may", "Receive the king’s reply at break of day.”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.23", "lines": ["At dawn they rose, prepared to serve the throne;", "Their thoughts on what was said were soon made known."]}, {"id": "E7.3.24", "lines": ["One said, “Such words should never have been heard,”", "Another, “Wisdom governed every word.”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.25", "lines": ["A third said, “He will answer us today;", "May his auspicious words our fears allay.”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.26", "lines": ["The Mobadan approached with solemn grace;", "The nobles sat, each in his chosen place."]}, {"id": "E7.3.27", "lines": ["A servant brought a golden basin near,", "Whose burnished rim had shone like sunlight clear."]}, {"id": "E7.3.28", "lines": ["He bore it round before the chiefs in row,", "Where fresh, warm blood defiled the bowl below."]}, {"id": "E7.3.29", "lines": ["He set it gently by the monarch’s side;", "The nobles turned their faces all aside."]}, {"id": "E7.3.30", "lines": ["The hall grew loud with murmurs of dismay;", "They watched the Shah, their courage drained away."]}, {"id": "E7.3.31", "lines": ["The Shah asked, “Why, Iranians, meets my sight", "This gory vessel that was pure and bright?”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.32", "lines": ["The Mobad said, “That gore makes men abhor", "The noble gold they reverenced before.”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.33", "lines": ["When he had spoken, men removed it; then", "The bowl passed hand to hand among the men."]}, {"id": "E7.3.34", "lines": ["They scoured the bowl with earth and water clean,", "Till not a stain of gore could dim its sheen."]}, {"id": "E7.3.35", "lines": ["The bowl was clean; the man who washed it poured", "The wine within, its brightness now restored."]}, {"id": "E7.3.36", "lines": ["They sprinkled rosewater and musk; the bowl", "Shone like the risen sun, its luster whole."]}, {"id": "E7.3.37", "lines": ["Khosrow Parviz toward the priest then turned:", "“Is this the bowl that all men lately spurned?”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.38", "lines": ["The Mobad answered, “May your days be bright;", "From evil now has goodness come to light."]}, {"id": "E7.3.39", "lines": ["Your order made a paradise from hell,", "And laid on ugly deeds a lovely spell.”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.40", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Shirin, within this town,", "Was like that bowl when foulness weighed it down."]}, {"id": "E7.3.41", "lines": ["But in my bower, she is a bowl of wine;", "Her fragrance rises, sweetened now by mine."]}, {"id": "E7.3.42", "lines": ["Through me her name was stained; she did not court", "The friendship of the great, nor their support.”"]}, {"id": "E7.3.43", "lines": ["Then all the nobles blessed his royal reign:", "“Long may your crown and throne on earth remain."]}, {"id": "E7.3.44", "lines": ["You make the good grow better by your hand;", "Those you make great stand foremost in the land."]}, {"id": "E7.3.45", "lines": ["You are our king, our Mobad and our guide,", "God’s shadow on the earth where we abide.”"]}, {"id": "E7.4.1", "lines": ["From then the Shah’s great fortune mounted high,", "The moon became the sun within the sky."]}, {"id": "E7.4.2", "lines": ["He passed his days with Caesar’s daughter, raised", "Above his other women, highest praised."]}, {"id": "E7.4.3", "lines": ["Because of her, Shirin grew sick with pain,", "Her cheeks were pale with envy’s inward stain."]}, {"id": "E7.4.4", "lines": ["At last she gave her poison, darkly planned,", "And Maryam died beneath her hidden hand."]}, {"id": "E7.4.5", "lines": ["No person knew the trick Shirin had played,", "For in her heart alone the plot was laid."]}, {"id": "E7.4.6", "lines": ["A year had passed since Maryam died; his fair", "Gold chambers then he gave to Shirin’s care."]}, {"id": "E7.4.7", "lines": ["When Shiruyeh reached at last his sixteenth year,", "His height above grown men began to appear."]}, {"id": "E7.4.8", "lines": ["His father summoned learned men to teach", "The prince, and set all wisdom in his reach."]}, {"id": "E7.4.9", "lines": ["One Mobad held the royal charge to keep", "The youth in view, a watch that knew no sleep."]}, {"id": "E7.4.10", "lines": ["One day the Mobad came from court and found", "The prince at sport, to idle pastimes bound."]}, {"id": "E7.4.11", "lines": ["He cast Kalila’s pages to the floor,", "Refusing ancient wisdom’s moral lore."]}, {"id": "E7.4.12", "lines": ["In his left hand he clutched a wolf’s dried claw,", "A baleful plaything that the Mobad saw."]}, {"id": "E7.4.13", "lines": ["His right a horn, which against the claw he beat,", "Boasting of battle, bloodshed, and defeat."]}, {"id": "E7.4.14", "lines": ["The Mobad shivered at that grim design,", "Where slaughter stood inscribed in every sign."]}, {"id": "E7.4.15", "lines": ["He feared the harm that might in time arise", "From such a luckless prince of haughty guise."]}, {"id": "E7.4.16", "lines": ["He saw the birth-chart; he had heard with dread", "What minister and treasurer had said."]}, {"id": "E7.4.17", "lines": ["He sought the High Mobad in deep dismay:", "“This youth has given all his heart to play.”"]}, {"id": "E7.4.18", "lines": ["The High Mobad approached the king with awe,", "And told him what the watchful Mobad saw."]}, {"id": "E7.4.19", "lines": ["The Shah then kept close watch upon his heir;", "His cheeks grew pale with grief and anxious care."]}, {"id": "E7.4.20", "lines": ["His heart was full of pain, his liver burned", "At what the star-reckoner had discerned."]}, {"id": "E7.4.21", "lines": ["He said, “I wait for Heaven’s Lord to show", "How this affair will end in joy or woe.”"]}, {"id": "E7.4.22", "lines": ["When twenty-three years of his reign had passed,", "Shiruyeh’s frame had grown both strong and vast."]}, {"id": "E7.4.23", "lines": ["The monarch’s mind, which once had smiled in ease,", "Grew troubled as his son grew by degrees."]}, {"id": "E7.4.24", "lines": ["He shut the youth within his palace walls,", "With one foster-brother in those royal halls."]}, {"id": "E7.4.25", "lines": ["All those attached to him who sought his aid", "And counsel were confined; with him they stayed."]}, {"id": "E7.4.26", "lines": ["More than three thousand men were gathered near,", "Confined with him, kept under watch in fear."]}, {"id": "E7.4.27", "lines": ["The royal workman opened hall to hall,", "To make one prison dwelling of them all."]}, {"id": "E7.4.28", "lines": ["With clothes and food, with gifts and coverings fine,", "They decked the halls and sent them slaves and wine."]}, {"id": "E7.4.29", "lines": ["Attendants served them; players came to play,", "And ample wealth was theirs throughout their stay."]}, {"id": "E7.4.30", "lines": ["At proper times they ate and took delight;", "Their forty guardsmen kept them in their sight."]}, {"id": "E7.5.1", "lines": ["I speak of Taqdis, throne of kingly fame,", "Which Khosrow raised, as truthful tongues proclaim."]}, {"id": "E7.5.2", "lines": ["He set it in the hippodrome on high,", "A marvel built to captivate the eye."]}, {"id": "E7.5.3", "lines": ["Its oldest story reached Zahhak’s dark day,", "When that foul tyrant made the world obey."]}, {"id": "E7.5.4", "lines": ["When Fereydoon’s heroic hand had thrust", "The Arab tyranny into the dust,"]}, {"id": "E7.5.5", "lines": ["A noble dwelt upon Damavand’s height,", "Whom Fereydoon held high in royal sight."]}, {"id": "E7.5.6", "lines": ["Jahan Barzin was that favored man of might,", "Renowned within the realm, his name shone bright."]}, {"id": "E7.5.7", "lines": ["For that great Shah he made a jeweled throne,", "With gems like stars in splendor thickly sown."]}, {"id": "E7.5.8", "lines": ["When Fereydoon beheld the work complete,", "His joy rose high; he praised the artist’s feat."]}, {"id": "E7.5.9", "lines": ["He gave him silver coins, a rich reward:", "Full thirty thousand from the grateful lord."]}, {"id": "E7.5.10", "lines": ["A crown of gold, two earrings shining bright,", "Were added to the gifts in his delight."]}, {"id": "E7.5.11", "lines": ["He granted him by royal writ made sure", "Both Sari and Amol to hold secure."]}, {"id": "E7.5.12", "lines": ["Those northern lands, granted by the monarch’s hand,", "Were like a paradise, so rich and grand."]}, {"id": "E7.5.13", "lines": ["To Iraj, youngest son, he gave command", "Of all Iran, that ancient royal land."]}, {"id": "E7.5.14", "lines": ["He gave three treasures to his royal son,", "To add to Iran’s royal wealth, each one:"]}, {"id": "E7.5.15", "lines": ["The jeweled throne; the ox-head gorz of might,", "Whose fame through every royal hall burned bright;"]}, {"id": "E7.5.16", "lines": ["And third, that gem of multifaceted designs,", "The Seven Springs, wherein all splendor shines."]}, {"id": "E7.5.17", "lines": ["When Iraj passed away, those treasures remained,", "And Manuchehr rejoiced in what he gained."]}, {"id": "E7.5.18", "lines": ["Each crowned king added something to that seat,", "And made its wealth and majesty complete."]}, {"id": "E7.5.19", "lines": ["When it came down to fortunate Kay Khosrow,", "He raised its height and made its grandeur grow."]}, {"id": "E7.5.20", "lines": ["It passed in turn to Lohrasp’s royal hand,", "Then reached Goshtasb, the ruler of the land."]}, {"id": "E7.5.21", "lines": ["Goshtasb beheld it, moved by what was shown:", "“Great work,” he said, “must never stay unknown.”"]}, {"id": "E7.5.22", "lines": ["He said to wise Jamasp, “O noble man,", "Add to this throne what lasting wisdom can."]}, {"id": "E7.5.23", "lines": ["Look everywhere; seek ways to win us praise", "That will endure beyond our mortal days.”"]}, {"id": "E7.5.24", "lines": ["Jamasp beheld the throne; before his eyes", "Lay wisdom’s key, a treasure for the wise."]}, {"id": "E7.5.25", "lines": ["He marked the ordered heavens’ every sign,", "And traced the courses of their vast design."]}, {"id": "E7.5.26", "lines": ["By order of the Shah, from Saturn’s height,", "He set each planet down to lunar light."]}, {"id": "E7.5.27", "lines": ["Thus through the years the throne passed evermore,", "Until it reached Iskandar’s royal store."]}, {"id": "E7.5.28", "lines": ["Each Shah who saw it added wealth and art,", "With gold and silver set in every part."]}, {"id": "E7.5.29", "lines": ["With ivory and shiz wood added too,", "Its splendor through the generations grew."]}, {"id": "E7.5.30", "lines": ["In ignorance, Iskandar broke the throne,", "And shattered all the splendor it had known."]}, {"id": "E7.5.31", "lines": ["Yet nobles hid and saved full many a shard,", "And handed fragments down with watchful guard."]}, {"id": "E7.5.32", "lines": ["So matters stood until Ardeshir reigned;", "The throne’s old name through passing years remained."]}, {"id": "E7.5.33", "lines": ["He found no trace; so, leaving that, he sought", "Another throne, for his own glory wrought."]}, {"id": "E7.5.34", "lines": ["He lived to taste the joys of high command,", "Then died and left it to the royal land."]}, {"id": "E7.5.35", "lines": ["His heirs received it, each in turn and state,", "Until Parviz assumed the throne of fate."]}, {"id": "E7.5.36", "lines": ["From every land he summoned noble men,", "And spoke about the ancient throne again."]}, {"id": "E7.5.37", "lines": ["He found among them fragments of that seat,", "And hastened, glad to make the work complete."]}, {"id": "E7.5.38", "lines": ["He brought the throne of Ardeshir in view,", "And gathered all Iran’s best craftsmen too."]}, {"id": "E7.5.39", "lines": ["So in that victorious monarch’s days,", "They built the throne again for royal praise."]}, {"id": "E7.5.40", "lines": ["From Rum and distant Chin the craftsmen sped,", "From Makran, Babylon, Iran were led."]}, {"id": "E7.5.41", "lines": ["One thousand and one hundred twenty came;", "They knew the throne’s construction and its frame."]}, {"id": "E7.5.42", "lines": ["Each master had beneath him thirty hands,", "From Rum, Babylon, all Iran’s wide lands."]}, {"id": "E7.5.43", "lines": ["The Shah commanded all to labor hard,", "And every pause and respite firmly barred."]}, {"id": "E7.5.44", "lines": ["In two years’ toil they raised the royal throne,", "And when it rose, high Fortune brightly shone."]}, {"id": "E7.5.45", "lines": ["The royal cubit marked its measured span;", "One hundred seventy its length then ran."]}, {"id": "E7.5.46", "lines": ["Its breadth, one hundred twenty cubits wide,", "A mountain made of treasure, craft, and pride."]}, {"id": "E7.5.47", "lines": ["Five common cubits made the royal measure;", "So vast the throne that bore the king’s great treasure."]}, {"id": "E7.5.48", "lines": ["Each morning through the month a carpet lay,", "A different splendor greeted every day."]}, {"id": "E7.5.49", "lines": ["One hundred forty thousand plates of gold", "Bore turquoise figures, wondrous to behold."]}, {"id": "E7.5.50", "lines": ["The nails and fittings were of silver rare,", "Exact in weight and fashioned with great care."]}, {"id": "E7.5.51", "lines": ["Each weighed full sixty-six mithqals; each shone", "Within the framework of the finished throne."]}, {"id": "E7.5.52", "lines": ["When Aries’ sun lit up the garden’s face,", "Behind the throne the plain stretched out in space."]}, {"id": "E7.5.53", "lines": ["When sunlight raged in Leo’s sign, the seat", "Was turned, its back against the blazing heat."]}, {"id": "E7.5.54", "lines": ["In Tir, the month of festival and fruit,", "The throne faced gardens, flower, branch, and root."]}, {"id": "E7.5.55", "lines": ["It caught the fragrance of the fruit and flowers,", "And filled with sweetness all the royal hours."]}, {"id": "E7.5.56", "lines": ["In winter days of rain and bitter cold,", "No seated lord felt storm within that hold."]}, {"id": "E7.5.57", "lines": ["The arches, screened with hangings rich and wide,", "Had khazz and sable draped on every side."]}, {"id": "E7.5.58", "lines": ["Against the chill, the wardrobe keeper brought", "A thousand globes of gold and silver wrought."]}, {"id": "E7.5.59", "lines": ["Each weighed five hundred mithqals, bright with flame,", "And glowed like coral in the royal frame."]}, {"id": "E7.5.60", "lines": ["One half lay in the fire to gather heat;", "The other faced the warriors at their seat."]}, {"id": "E7.5.61", "lines": ["The twelve celestial signs, the planets seven,", "The ordered motions of the vault of heaven,"]}, {"id": "E7.5.62", "lines": ["The moon within whatever sign it crossed,", "And fixed and wandering lights through darkness tossed,"]}, {"id": "E7.5.63", "lines": ["Were shown upon the throne to watching eyes,", "With all the measured turning of the skies."]}, {"id": "E7.5.64", "lines": ["One skilled in stars could judge how night had run,", "And how the heavens wheeled to bring the sun."]}, {"id": "E7.5.65", "lines": ["Among the towers some were made of gold;", "Their jeweled wealth was more than thought could hold."]}, {"id": "E7.5.66", "lines": ["No expert mind could count their full array,", "Or price the gems that blazed in bright display."]}, {"id": "E7.5.67", "lines": ["The cheapest cost some seventy gold coins’ weight;", "For some, seven hundred fell below their rate."]}, {"id": "E7.5.68", "lines": ["Full many crimson gems were beyond price,", "And lit the night like Venus clear as ice."]}, {"id": "E7.5.69", "lines": ["Three seats upon the throne were raised on high,", "Their jewels heaped in splendor to the eye."]}, {"id": "E7.5.70", "lines": ["Four golden steps, with gems inlaid between,", "Rose from one seat to the next in golden sheen."]}, {"id": "E7.5.71", "lines": ["They called the first the Ram’s Head, gleaming bright;", "There dehqans sat with those of lesser might."]}, {"id": "E7.5.72", "lines": ["The next, called Lapis, rose in splendor proud,", "Where mighty horsemen sat above the crowd."]}, {"id": "E7.5.73", "lines": ["The turquoise seat above was set apart", "For loyal ministers of mind and heart."]}, {"id": "E7.5.74", "lines": ["A cloth of gold, with jeweled fringes fine,", "Displayed the heavens in its woven design."]}, {"id": "E7.5.75", "lines": ["Seven realms, with dehqans, filled its woven ground;", "And scenes of warriors’ battles there were found."]}, {"id": "E7.5.76", "lines": ["With forty-eight crowned kings the fabric shone,", "Their royal crowns depicted, throne by throne."]}, {"id": "E7.5.77", "lines": ["Through seven years a peerless man of Chin", "Had worked whole worlds into its golden sheen."]}, {"id": "E7.5.78", "lines": ["When Farvardin renewed the turning year,", "On Ormozd’s day he made his work appear."]}, {"id": "E7.5.79", "lines": ["They spread the cloth; with wine, a feast was made;", "Sarkash sang praise while tuneful strings were played."]}, {"id": "E7.5.80", "lines": ["Upon the cloth the nobles’ jewels were cast;", "They called it the great carpet, rich and vast."]}, {"id": "E7.6.1", "lines": ["Still greater was the Shah on Fortune’s throne,", "While year by year the Shah’s renown had grown."]}, {"id": "E7.6.2", "lines": ["When twenty-eight full years had crowned his reign,", "No suitor at his court had sought in vain,"]}, {"id": "E7.6.3", "lines": ["Barbad heard news of all the royal cheer,", "And what the people told him reached his ear:"]}, {"id": "E7.6.4", "lines": ["“The mighty Shah holds minstrels’ music dear;", "If both of you were brought for him to hear,"]}, {"id": "E7.6.5", "lines": ["He would set you above Sarkash in praise,", "And grant the higher honor to your lays.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.6", "lines": ["Then longing stirred within Barbad’s breast;", "Though well supplied, he would not stay at rest."]}, {"id": "E7.6.7", "lines": ["He left his province for the royal court,", "And studied all the minstrels and their sort."]}, {"id": "E7.6.8", "lines": ["When Sarkash heard him play, his heart was sore;", "Confounded, he could bear the sound no more."]}, {"id": "E7.6.9", "lines": ["He sought the chamberlain who kept the way,", "And bribed him well with gold and silver pay."]}, {"id": "E7.6.10", "lines": ["He said, “A minstrel waits before the gate,", "In years and skill above my present state."]}, {"id": "E7.6.11", "lines": ["He must not stand before the monarch’s eyes;", "We grow stale here, while he may freshly rise.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.12", "lines": ["The keeper heard and barred the singer’s road;", "Barbad gained nothing from the skill he showed."]}, {"id": "E7.6.13", "lines": ["Whenever he approached, the door was closed;", "His hope grew thin, his offered art opposed."]}, {"id": "E7.6.14", "lines": ["Despairing of the court, he made his way", "With lute in hand to where the gardens lay."]}, {"id": "E7.6.15", "lines": ["The royal garden drew him through its shade,", "Where Mardvi served and tended every glade."]}, {"id": "E7.6.16", "lines": ["That gardener revived his fading hope,", "And gave his thwarted wish a wider scope."]}, {"id": "E7.6.17", "lines": ["At New Year feasts, the Shah would often spend", "Two weeks in feasting there from end to end."]}, {"id": "E7.6.18", "lines": ["Barbad approached the gardener that same day,", "And friendship eased his trouble and delay."]}, {"id": "E7.6.19", "lines": ["He said, “You are the soul, and I the frame;", "One little favor is my modest claim."]}, {"id": "E7.6.20", "lines": ["When mighty Khosrow comes here for delight,", "Let me behold him, hidden from his sight.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.21", "lines": ["Mardvi replied, “This favor I will do,", "And lift the burden of concern from you.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.22", "lines": ["When Khosrow wished to visit that green place,", "The gardener’s heart shone bright with sudden grace."]}, {"id": "E7.6.23", "lines": ["He sought Barbad, and hastened to declare:", "“The Shah will soon be here; so now prepare.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.24", "lines": ["His clothes and lute alike he colored green,", "To rest among the branches there unseen."]}, {"id": "E7.6.25", "lines": ["He reached the spot the king would choose in spring,", "Where every year he held his festal ring."]}, {"id": "E7.6.26", "lines": ["A verdant cypress spread its leafy crown,", "Its branches broad and bending richly down."]}, {"id": "E7.6.27", "lines": ["Its limbs like warrior ranks stretched all around;", "He climbed, his lute held close, above the ground."]}, {"id": "E7.6.28", "lines": ["He waited, still and high, within the shade,", "Till Khosrow left his palace for the glade."]}, {"id": "E7.6.29", "lines": ["The gardener had prepared the royal place;", "With wine there came a youth of moonlike face."]}, {"id": "E7.6.30", "lines": ["The youthful bearer brought the king his wine;", "The Shah received the crystal, bright and fine."]}, {"id": "E7.6.31", "lines": ["The crimson liquor made the crystal fade,", "As though red fire through glass had been displayed."]}, {"id": "E7.6.32", "lines": ["When daylight yellowed and the evening came,", "And night was lapis with a deep-blue flame,"]}, {"id": "E7.6.33", "lines": ["The minstrel in the cypress, hid from sight,", "Began a hero’s song that filled the night."]}, {"id": "E7.6.34", "lines": ["He sang so sweetly from the cypress bough,", "The wakeful Shah sat rapt and wondering now."]}, {"id": "E7.6.35", "lines": ["The tune that we call Dadafrid by name", "Poured from his voice like clear and living flame."]}, {"id": "E7.6.36", "lines": ["The court was struck with wonder and surprise,", "While nobles searched the dark with questing eyes."]}, {"id": "E7.6.37", "lines": ["The music drove Sarkash toward frantic dread;", "He knew the source, yet not a word he said."]}, {"id": "E7.6.38", "lines": ["He thought, “None plays like Barbad; none can know", "That heroic song, or make its music flow.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.39", "lines": ["The Shah commanded, “Search the garden through.”", "They searched and came with nothing else in view."]}, {"id": "E7.6.40", "lines": ["Sly Sarkash said, “No wonder at this thing;", "Fortune has filled the garden for the king."]}, {"id": "E7.6.41", "lines": ["So favored is the Shah that tree and rose", "Make music everywhere his garden grows.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.42", "lines": ["He added, “May his crown and head endure,", "His Fortune fixed, his royal glory sure.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.43", "lines": ["The lovely cupbearer came back and brought", "The wine; the king received the cup he sought."]}, {"id": "E7.6.44", "lines": ["The hidden minstrel changed his opening strain,", "And shaped another song to entertain."]}, {"id": "E7.6.45", "lines": ["He sang the tune called Paikar-e-Gurd by name,", "The name by which that song to others came."]}, {"id": "E7.6.46", "lines": ["The Shah drank wine and listened to the sound,", "Then ordered, “Let this player now be found."]}, {"id": "E7.6.47", "lines": ["Search all the garden, every inward place.”", "They carried lamps and moved through every space."]}, {"id": "E7.6.48", "lines": ["They found no player underneath the trees,", "But cypress, willow, pheasant, rose, and breeze."]}, {"id": "E7.6.49", "lines": ["They saw the pheasants pacing through the close,", "But not the man from whom the music rose."]}, {"id": "E7.6.50", "lines": ["The king of kings commanded wine be poured,", "And raised his head to catch the coming chord."]}, {"id": "E7.6.51", "lines": ["Again the lute-song came with altered art,", "A tune called Sabz dar sabz that pierced the heart."]}, {"id": "E7.6.52", "lines": ["Thus art can weave enchantment through its lays;", "Khosrow rose up in wonder and in praise."]}, {"id": "E7.6.53", "lines": ["The king called for a brimming cup of wine;", "It held one man, a measure of the vine."]}, {"id": "E7.6.54", "lines": ["He drank it in one breath, then spoke his thought,", "In wonder at the music’s marvel caught:"]}, {"id": "E7.6.55", "lines": ["“Were this an angel, musk would form his frame,", "With ambergris; but were a Div to blame,"]}, {"id": "E7.6.56", "lines": ["He could not sing, nor would he understand", "The art of striking strings with skillful hand."]}, {"id": "E7.6.57", "lines": ["Find out the player; search both left and right,", "Through garden beds and flowers in the light."]}, {"id": "E7.6.58", "lines": ["I shall fill his mouth and lap with royal treasure,", "And make him chief of minstrels for my pleasure.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.59", "lines": ["When Barbad heard the monarch’s gracious call,", "His fear dissolved; he chose to answer all."]}, {"id": "E7.6.60", "lines": ["He climbed down from the cypress, glad of heart,", "And came before the king who praised his art."]}, {"id": "E7.6.61", "lines": ["He placed his face upon the dust, bowed low;", "The king said, “Speak! Who are you? Let me know.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.62", "lines": ["He answered, “Shah, I am your slave, and live", "Only by what your voice and throne can give.”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.63", "lines": ["He told the king his story from the start,", "And all that he had borne in flesh and heart."]}, {"id": "E7.6.64", "lines": ["The king rejoiced to see him, as the rose", "Rejoices when the springtime wind first blows."]}, {"id": "E7.6.65", "lines": ["He turned to Sarkash: “You have earned disgrace;", "Beside his sweetness, gall is in your place."]}, {"id": "E7.6.66", "lines": ["Why did you bar his entrance to my hall,", "And grudge his music to us, one and all?”"]}, {"id": "E7.6.67", "lines": ["Barbad sang on; the monarch drank his wine,", "Till sleep began to make his head incline."]}, {"id": "E7.6.68", "lines": ["The Shah filled Barbad’s mouth with pearls of light;", "Barbad became chief minstrel in his sight."]}, {"id": "E7.6.69", "lines": ["The tale of Barbad now has reached its end;", "May you be spared a false, destructive friend."]}, {"id": "E7.6.70", "lines": ["Since chief and commoner to death descend,", "Why should the sage let grief his spirit bend?"]}, {"id": "E7.6.71", "lines": ["So many, high and low, have passed from sight;", "I seek no waking from my final night."]}, {"id": "E7.6.72", "lines": ["Now sixty-six full years of life have fled;", "Let none bring harm upon an old man’s head."]}, {"id": "E7.6.73", "lines": ["When I have brought these famed lays to a close,", "My praise through every countryside then flows."]}, {"id": "E7.6.74", "lines": ["I shall not die; I live beyond death’s reach,", "For I have scattered wide the seed of speech."]}, {"id": "E7.6.75", "lines": ["All those of Faith, sound counsel, learned lore,", "Will praise my name when I am seen no more."]}, {"id": "E7.7.1", "lines": ["I tell of Madain and Khosrow’s grand seat,", "The palace he raised in splendor complete."]}, {"id": "E7.7.2", "lines": ["An Iranian sage recalled that former age,", "And calmly told the tale from memory’s page."]}, {"id": "E7.7.3", "lines": ["Khosrow sent men to Rum, Hind, Chin, and lands", "Where skill had shaped the work of master hands."]}, {"id": "E7.7.4", "lines": ["From every clime three thousand craftsmen came,", "All men of practice, reputation, fame."]}, {"id": "E7.7.5", "lines": ["From these he chose a hundred masters tried,", "Whose skill in brick and mortar none denied."]}, {"id": "E7.7.6", "lines": ["Iran, Ahvaz, and Roman lands supplied", "The experts who were tested at his side."]}, {"id": "E7.7.7", "lines": ["From these he chose but thirty men of fame,", "And three supreme among the thirty came:"]}, {"id": "E7.7.8", "lines": ["Two Romans and one craftsman from Iran;", "And at their head a Roman named Farghan."]}, {"id": "E7.7.9", "lines": ["The seasoned builder stood before the king,", "And spoke of what his soaring skill could bring."]}, {"id": "E7.7.10", "lines": ["The Roman’s words revealed his practiced skill;", "In speech he bested Iran’s speaker still."]}, {"id": "E7.7.11", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Hear the work that I command;", "Attend my words and clearly understand."]}, {"id": "E7.7.12", "lines": ["I need a palace for my child and line,", "To last two hundred years by your design."]}, {"id": "E7.7.13", "lines": ["No rain, no snow, no sun shall make it bow,", "Nor heat nor cold shall ever harm it now.”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.14", "lines": ["The expert took the task: “My skill,” he said,", "“Is equal to the work that lies ahead.”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.15", "lines": ["Ten royal cubits deep he laid the base;", "Five royal cubits marked its breadth of space."]}, {"id": "E7.7.16", "lines": ["With stone and plaster, following his art,", "He laid foundations, mindful of his part."]}, {"id": "E7.7.17", "lines": ["When palace walls had risen from the clay,", "He came before the Shah without delay."]}, {"id": "E7.7.18", "lines": ["He said, “Send men whose years have made them wise,", "Whose practiced knowledge fits them to advise."]}, {"id": "E7.7.19", "lines": ["A kindly Mobad with them should be sent,", "To view the wall and judge the work’s extent.”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.20", "lines": ["The Shah sent men to view the work as planned;", "They saw the wall, how straight it came to stand."]}, {"id": "E7.7.21", "lines": ["The artist brought them silk, and from that silk", "They twisted one thin cord, as pale as milk."]}, {"id": "E7.7.22", "lines": ["They measured from the wall-top to the ground,", "And in the cord preserved the height they found."]}, {"id": "E7.7.23", "lines": ["He measured out the cord before their eyes,", "Before the Shah’s officials, old and wise."]}, {"id": "E7.7.24", "lines": ["He bore it to the treasury to seal,", "And gave the keeper charge with honest zeal."]}, {"id": "E7.7.25", "lines": ["Then, at the court, he spoke in measured tone:", "“The walls have risen high in brick and stone."]}, {"id": "E7.7.26", "lines": ["Although the Shah has urged me, ‘Build with speed,’", "I will not press the work beyond its need."]}, {"id": "E7.7.27", "lines": ["For forty days allow the work to rest;", "The Shah chose me from craftsmen he deemed best."]}, {"id": "E7.7.28", "lines": ["When it is time to raise the vault on high,", "Its height shall rival Saturn in the sky."]}, {"id": "E7.7.29", "lines": ["Let not the Shah’s wrath ruin careful toil,", "Nor haste make sound and ordered labor spoil.”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.30", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Why seek delay today,", "And let your discontent hold work at bay?"]}, {"id": "E7.7.31", "lines": ["You must not leave the work to stand this way;", "No longer let delay prolong your stay.”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.32", "lines": ["He ordered thirty thousand coins be paid", "In silver, lest the man should be dismayed."]}, {"id": "E7.7.33", "lines": ["They paid the man to keep his anger tame;", "Yet still he feared his fellow craftsmen’s blame."]}, {"id": "E7.7.34", "lines": ["If experts saw the haste his work displayed,", "He stood to lose his living and his trade."]}, {"id": "E7.7.35", "lines": ["And if the palace fell, his name would fall;", "His fortune, too; he would have lost it all."]}, {"id": "E7.7.36", "lines": ["That night he disappeared from every eye;", "None knew where he had gone, nor could say why."]}, {"id": "E7.7.37", "lines": ["When Khosrow heard, “The Roman’s fled away,”", "His wrath struck him who brought the news that day."]}, {"id": "E7.7.38", "lines": ["He cried, “How could a dullard dare to claim", "Such airs before my throne and royal name?”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.39", "lines": ["He ordered, “View the work from end to end,", "And all the Romans into prison send."]}, {"id": "E7.7.40", "lines": ["Bring craftsmen here, and let the workmen bear", "The plaster, bricks and stones we must prepare.”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.41", "lines": ["But those who came to view the walls took flight;", "Fearing the Shah, they fled beyond his sight."]}, {"id": "E7.7.42", "lines": ["The Shah was forced to leave the work alone,", "And turned his mind where other skill was known."]}, {"id": "E7.7.43", "lines": ["He looked to Ahvaz, hoping he might meet", "An architect whose skill was made complete."]}, {"id": "E7.7.44", "lines": ["For three full years they searched at his command,", "But no surpassing master crossed the land."]}, {"id": "E7.7.45", "lines": ["Still people spoke about the former man,", "The architect who had conceived the plan."]}, {"id": "E7.7.46", "lines": ["Then in the fourth year he retraced the road;", "Swift ran the tidings to the king’s abode."]}, {"id": "E7.7.47", "lines": ["A prudent man informed the anxious king;", "The Roman came as swiftly as on wing."]}, {"id": "E7.7.48", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Guilty man, what can you say?", "What plea will turn my wrath from you away?”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.49", "lines": ["The Roman said, “If now the king will send", "One trusted man with me, my case may mend."]}, {"id": "E7.7.50", "lines": ["I will explain my doings on the site;", "When truth is shown, my pardon will be right.”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.51", "lines": ["The Shah dispatched them from the palace gate,", "The noble artist and his man of state."]}, {"id": "E7.7.52", "lines": ["The clever Roman took the measuring line,", "And with the Shah’s own man reviewed the sign."]}, {"id": "E7.7.53", "lines": ["They measured; seven cubits less they found", "Than when the cord first reached from wall to ground."]}, {"id": "E7.7.54", "lines": ["They carried back the line in open sight;", "The expert’s comrade set the matter right."]}, {"id": "E7.7.55", "lines": ["The Roman said, “Had I raised vault and wall,", "No work, O Shah, could have endured at all."]}, {"id": "E7.7.56", "lines": ["No arch or roof or chamber would have stayed;", "And I would answer for the ruin made.”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.57", "lines": ["Khosrow perceived the truth within his speech,", "And saw that skill had justified its reach."]}, {"id": "E7.7.58", "lines": ["He freed the prisoners, harmful men and kind;", "No one within the prison stayed confined."]}, {"id": "E7.7.59", "lines": ["A purse of gold was given to the man;", "To prisoners, too, the royal bounty ran."]}, {"id": "E7.7.60", "lines": ["Much time had passed; the Shah still longed to view", "The finished palace rising grand and new."]}, {"id": "E7.7.61", "lines": ["After seven years the noble work was done,", "And wise Khosrow approved what skill had won."]}, {"id": "E7.7.62", "lines": ["He gave him water, land, and gold; to raise", "His name, he added silver coins and praise."]}, {"id": "E7.7.63", "lines": ["All went to view that palace in its pride;", "The Shah spent Nowruz in its halls inside."]}, {"id": "E7.7.64", "lines": ["No eye had seen, no craftsman known before,", "A palace of such wonder, wealth, and lore."]}, {"id": "E7.7.65", "lines": ["A golden ring was fixed above the hall,", "Hung from the vaulted structure over all."]}, {"id": "E7.7.66", "lines": ["From that ring swung a ruddy chain of gold,", "With jeweled links for royal eyes to hold."]}, {"id": "E7.7.67", "lines": ["When Khosrow sat upon the ivory seat,", "They hung the crown above him, rich, complete."]}, {"id": "E7.7.68", "lines": ["When Nowruz came and Khosrow took his place,", "A Mobad sat the nearest, shown due grace."]}, {"id": "E7.7.69", "lines": ["Below him sat the chiefs of noble race,", "With those who dealt provision in that space."]}, {"id": "E7.7.70", "lines": ["Below the nobles sat the men of trade;", "Beneath, the poor whom their own toil repaid."]}, {"id": "E7.7.71", "lines": ["Below, the limbs of traitors met the eye,", "Whom royal justice had condemned to die."]}, {"id": "E7.7.72", "lines": ["Then from the throne a proclamation came,", "To stir all hearts beneath the monarch’s name:"]}, {"id": "E7.7.73", "lines": ["“O subjects of the king who rules the land,", "Let no dark thought or doubt your hearts command."]}, {"id": "E7.7.74", "lines": ["Who looks above himself will find his thought", "Disturbed by all the things his eyes have sought."]}, {"id": "E7.7.75", "lines": ["Look farther from the Kayanian throne;", "Count those below the station you have known."]}, {"id": "E7.7.76", "lines": ["Then look upon the bodies of the dead", "Along the path that you once more will tread.”"]}, {"id": "E7.7.77", "lines": ["Then none, accused or guiltless, stayed confined;", "The Shah gave clothes and coin of every kind."]}, {"id": "E7.7.78", "lines": ["The poor who had no share in New Year’s cheer", "Were seated at the palace entrance near."]}, {"id": "E7.7.79", "lines": ["The Shah poured silver from his treasure-hoard;", "The guilty feared the anger of their lord."]}, {"id": "E7.7.80", "lines": ["The heedless woke as if from heavy sleep;", "The Shah had roused them from their slumber deep."]}, {"id": "E7.7.81", "lines": ["Another herald cried as men withdrew:", "“O proud and gifted chiefs, these words are true:"]}, {"id": "E7.7.82", "lines": ["Why seek so many marks of higher place?", "Look on the lowly; mourn their hapless case."]}, {"id": "E7.7.83", "lines": ["First ponder what you do, that you may stay", "Secure in life and health from day to day."]}, {"id": "E7.7.84", "lines": ["Reflect before you act; do not impart", "Fresh grief to those less wise, nor break their heart."]}, {"id": "E7.7.85", "lines": ["First measure, then cut out; let wisdom guide;", "Give ear to those whose knowledge has been tried."]}, {"id": "E7.7.86", "lines": ["Who keeps the proper path may rest at night,", "Secure from royal anger and its might."]}, {"id": "E7.7.87", "lines": ["But he who reaches for another’s share", "Will find our wrath lies waiting, like a snare.”"]}, {"id": "E7.8.1", "lines": ["I next recall the Shah in all his prime,", "Reviving greatness lost to passing time."]}, {"id": "E7.8.2", "lines": ["Such majesty as his, among the great,", "Lives in no memory of equal state."]}, {"id": "E7.8.3", "lines": ["Who reads the royal record ought to shake", "His hem free of the world, for wisdom’s sake."]}, {"id": "E7.8.4", "lines": ["And I may speak these words, assured and clear,", "For wise men will defend what they shall hear."]}, {"id": "E7.8.5", "lines": ["Be not at home in this world’s house of pain;", "Its bane is greater than its healing gain."]}, {"id": "E7.8.6", "lines": ["Shun greed and hate; make not this house of strife", "Your settled home, this passing road of life."]}, {"id": "E7.8.7", "lines": ["It is a passing house; you age, and then", "Newcomers take your place among its men."]}, {"id": "E7.8.8", "lines": ["One comes, another passes and is gone;", "They strut and feed awhile, and all pass on."]}, {"id": "E7.8.9", "lines": ["The ant’s small head and elephant’s vast frame,", "At death’s command, return to dust the same."]}, {"id": "E7.8.10", "lines": ["When you have heard Khosrow’s astounding tale,", "Hold it in mind, and let its truth prevail."]}, {"id": "E7.8.11", "lines": ["His power and lofty rank were both so great,", "So grand his throne and crown, his royal state,"]}, {"id": "E7.8.12", "lines": ["That should you ask of every learned sage,", "Not one would name his peer in any age."]}, {"id": "E7.8.13", "lines": ["From Hind and from Turan, in ceaseless flow,", "Came tribute such as subject lands bestow:"]}, {"id": "E7.8.14", "lines": ["Young slaves and serving maids, a wondrous sight,", "With pearls and rubies, gems of luster bright."]}, {"id": "E7.8.15", "lines": ["His treasures and his gold surpassed all count;", "No king had ever held such an amount."]}, {"id": "E7.8.16", "lines": ["The eagle, falcon, hawk all paid him heed,", "And served his royal will in thought and deed."]}, {"id": "E7.8.17", "lines": ["The leopard, lion, and nahangs obeyed;", "All honored him and kept the pact they made."]}, {"id": "E7.8.18", "lines": ["His mind was bright as sunlight over land;", "The world obeyed the scepter in his hand."]}, {"id": "E7.8.19", "lines": ["First Arus: Chin and Rum supplied its store,", "And Rus and Bartas added treasures more."]}, {"id": "E7.8.20", "lines": ["The next held watered pearls in rich supply,", "And rose an arrow’s flight into the sky."]}, {"id": "E7.8.21", "lines": ["The Arab chiefs and sages named that treasure", "The Khazra, rich beyond all count or measure."]}, {"id": "E7.8.22", "lines": ["Then came Bad Awar, driven from the sea,", "When ocean storms enriched his treasury."]}, {"id": "E7.8.23", "lines": ["Then Diba-e-Khosrovi, famed and bright,", "With Afrasiab’s hoard of matchless light."]}, {"id": "E7.8.24", "lines": ["No hoard like it was found on sea or land;", "Then Sukhta blazed, a wonder vast and grand."]}, {"id": "E7.8.25", "lines": ["Its luster filled the realm with spreading rays,", "And turned the darkest nights to shining days."]}, {"id": "E7.8.26", "lines": ["Then great Shadward, which minstrels celebrate,", "A treasure fit for songs of royal state."]}, {"id": "E7.8.27", "lines": ["On red gold, gems were woven, bright to view,", "With twisted golden threads that shimmered through."]}, {"id": "E7.8.28", "lines": ["Sarkash and Barbad served the royal hall,", "And answered Khosrow’s wish with every call."]}, {"id": "E7.8.29", "lines": ["Their market flourished under royal praise;", "Song filled his halls through all his golden days."]}, {"id": "E7.8.30", "lines": ["Twelve thousand slave girls filled his golden bower,", "As fair as springtime gardens, flower by flower."]}, {"id": "E7.8.31", "lines": ["Two thousand elephants, two hundred more,", "Seemed more than earth could bear from shore to shore."]}, {"id": "E7.8.32", "lines": ["Twelve thousand warhorses made up the score,", "Two hundred riding horses swelled the store."]}, {"id": "E7.8.33", "lines": ["Twelve thousand camels bore loads in the train,", "And sixty-six bore litters on the plain."]}, {"id": "E7.8.34", "lines": ["No white-haired veteran had known or told", "Of herds so vast a monarch’s stalls could hold."]}, {"id": "E7.8.35", "lines": ["Yet by a base-born hireling’s hand he fell,", "As turning skies and ancient records tell."]}, {"id": "E7.8.36", "lines": ["Choose rather life made free from anxious care,", "If you would earn through justice praises fair."]}, {"id": "E7.8.37", "lines": ["For good and evil pass away with death,", "And time is counting every mortal breath."]}, {"id": "E7.8.38", "lines": ["Though throne and crown and treasury be your part,", "At last dust claims the labor of your heart."]}, {"id": "E7.8.39", "lines": ["So sow good seed and shun the grasping hand;", "Let goodness be the harvest of your land."]}, {"id": "E7.8.40", "lines": ["His throne and crown, his world-embracing state,", "Could not content him, though his power was great."]}, {"id": "E7.8.41", "lines": ["He raised the dust throughout those mighty lands,", "Iran and Turan, under his commands."]}, {"id": "E7.9.1", "lines": ["The Shah, once just, now took a tyrant’s part,", "His servants’ wrongs brought gladness to his heart."]}, {"id": "E7.9.2", "lines": ["Farrokhzad, who appeared with sullen face,", "Was harsh to every man of humbler place."]}, {"id": "E7.9.3", "lines": ["He seized their wealth and set them all at strife,", "One with another, souring common life."]}, {"id": "E7.9.4", "lines": ["The shepherd turned a wolf against the sheep;", "The land was plunged in lamentations deep."]}, {"id": "E7.9.5", "lines": ["His single wish was wealth beyond all need,", "And fresh distress arose from all that greed."]}, {"id": "E7.9.6", "lines": ["With neither bread nor water, worn with pain,", "They fled Iran, too weak to bear the strain."]}, {"id": "E7.9.7", "lines": ["The broken people crossed to hostile ground,", "From town rose smoke of curses all around."]}, {"id": "E7.9.8", "lines": ["A mighty chief, Guraz, the Boar of fame,", "To whom the frontier’s high command once came,"]}, {"id": "E7.9.9", "lines": ["Held all the Roman march with stern command,", "The proudest warrior in the Western land."]}, {"id": "E7.9.10", "lines": ["When that once righteous Shah embraced disgrace,", "Guraz first turned from Iran and shamed his race."]}, {"id": "E7.9.11", "lines": ["Another favorite rose within the court,", "Zad Farrokh, who controlled the king’s resort."]}, {"id": "E7.9.12", "lines": ["None reached the king within his hall of state", "Unless Zad Farrokh pleaded at the gate."]}, {"id": "E7.9.13", "lines": ["As royal Fortune neared its destined end,", "This favorite’s heart to evil too would bend."]}, {"id": "E7.9.14", "lines": ["He joined with old Guraz in secret thought,", "From realm to realm their secret plans were brought."]}, {"id": "E7.9.15", "lines": ["Guraz wrote Caesar: “Rise, seize Iran’s land;", "I shall be first to come and lend a hand.”"]}, {"id": "E7.9.16", "lines": ["Then Caesar read and marshaled his command,", "And led Rum’s legions toward that borderland."]}, {"id": "E7.10.1", "lines": ["The king dismissed the danger as but slight,", "And knew Guraz had stirred Rum’s lord to fight."]}, {"id": "E7.10.2", "lines": ["He summoned him, but Guraz would not come,", "For fear had struck his heart and made it numb."]}, {"id": "E7.10.3", "lines": ["He feared Khosrow, the court, the chiefs of state,", "And shunned the summons, wary of his fate."]}, {"id": "E7.10.4", "lines": ["The king of kings then sat among the great,", "With Iran’s leading chiefs, to hold debate."]}, {"id": "E7.10.5", "lines": ["He cleared his heart of care and searched around", "For every craft by which relief was found."]}, {"id": "E7.10.6", "lines": ["At last a bright expedient filled his mind;", "He wrote to Guraz words designed to blind:"]}, {"id": "E7.10.7", "lines": ["“The course you take has all my warm applause;", "I praised it to my court without a pause."]}, {"id": "E7.10.8", "lines": ["Your cunning arts have brought him to his fall;", "You have outwitted Caesar, schemes and all."]}, {"id": "E7.10.9", "lines": ["When this arrives, let sharpest wisdom wake;", "Wait till I move, then your own action take."]}, {"id": "E7.10.10", "lines": ["So Caesar, caught between forces, shall fail,", "And all his Roman purposes grow pale."]}, {"id": "E7.10.11", "lines": ["We shall lead Caesar captive in our chain,", "And take his Roman legions in our train.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.12", "lines": ["Then from his court he chose one man of skill,", "Resourceful, eloquent, and firm of will."]}, {"id": "E7.10.13", "lines": ["He said, “In secret let this letter go;", "Bear it as those who spy upon the foe."]}, {"id": "E7.10.14", "lines": ["Yet shape your road so Roman eyes may see", "And question you on what your task may be."]}, {"id": "E7.10.15", "lines": ["Let them interrogate you on the road,", "Then carry you to Caesar’s own abode."]}, {"id": "E7.10.16", "lines": ["Do not reveal from where your travels start;", "Say, ‘I am but a servant skilled in art."]}, {"id": "E7.10.17", "lines": ["I have come far along a weary way;", "A letter meant for Guraz I convey.’"]}, {"id": "E7.10.18", "lines": ["Bind it upon your right arm, firm and tight;", "If they remove it, then our plan is right.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.19", "lines": ["The courtier left the court by Khosrow’s will,", "And bound the letter to his arm with skill."]}, {"id": "E7.10.20", "lines": ["A Roman patrician saw him on the road,", "And seized him with the letter and its load."]}, {"id": "E7.10.21", "lines": ["They brought him straight to Caesar, dust on head,", "With pallid cheeks and lips like livid lead."]}, {"id": "E7.10.22", "lines": ["Then Caesar asked, “Where does Parviz remain?", "Speak truth, and make your answer clear and plain.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.23", "lines": ["The envoy stood bewildered in that place,", "And fear drew down the features of his face."]}, {"id": "E7.10.24", "lines": ["Then Caesar said, “Search him, this man of ill,", "With wicked speech and thoughts and evil will.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.25", "lines": ["Shrewd men searched all his garments, arm, and hand,", "And found the letter tied beneath its band."]}, {"id": "E7.10.26", "lines": ["They sought a learned man to read the scroll,", "Whose Pahlavi would yield its meaning whole."]}, {"id": "E7.10.27", "lines": ["The scribe read out the letter, word by word;", "Like pitch grew Caesar’s face at what he heard."]}, {"id": "E7.10.28", "lines": ["Within his heart he spoke in deep disdain:", "“Guraz has drawn us toward a deadly chain."]}, {"id": "E7.10.29", "lines": ["The king of kings commands so vast a force:", "Three hundred thousand men of foot and horse."]}, {"id": "E7.10.30", "lines": ["His elephants for war exceed all count;", "No man can tell their number or amount."]}, {"id": "E7.10.31", "lines": ["Guraz would cast me in the monarch’s net;", "May darkness shroud the end that waits him yet.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.32", "lines": ["He left his purpose, wheeled his army round,", "And turned from conquest on Iranian ground."]}, {"id": "E7.10.33", "lines": ["When Guraz learned that Caesar had withdrawn", "To Rum, his cheek grew pale, all gladness gone."]}, {"id": "E7.10.34", "lines": ["He picked a rider from his troops, then wrote", "With sighs, and sorrow rising in his throat:"]}, {"id": "E7.10.35", "lines": ["“Why is great Caesar now displeased and cold?", "Why leave Iran and cast me from your fold?"]}, {"id": "E7.10.36", "lines": ["The Shah knows I have brought this state of pain;", "His heart will turn to hatred and disdain.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.37", "lines": ["When Caesar read the letter Guraz sent,", "He chose a noble, who as envoy went."]}, {"id": "E7.10.38", "lines": ["He sent him swiftly with this sharp reply:", "“God freed you from such need; then tell me why:"]}, {"id": "E7.10.39", "lines": ["Would you make desolate my crown and reign,", "And burn my troops with fire for your own gain?"]}, {"id": "E7.10.40", "lines": ["Your former letter, wretch, was meant to throw", "My wealth to ruin, lay my legions low."]}, {"id": "E7.10.41", "lines": ["Its purpose was to hand me over bound", "To Khosrow Parviz on Iranian ground."]}, {"id": "E7.10.42", "lines": ["May greatness never enter at your door;", "May Fortune keep you wretched evermore."]}, {"id": "E7.10.43", "lines": ["You should have known, while kings of Kayan reign,", "Iranians will not choose a foreign chain."]}, {"id": "E7.10.44", "lines": ["No Caesar-born, however wise or great,", "Would find Iranians welcoming his state.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.45", "lines": ["Guraz sent many pleas toward Caesar’s throne,", "But Caesar’s ear was barred as if by stone."]}, {"id": "E7.10.46", "lines": ["Then Khosrow chose an envoy from his side,", "A learned counselor, eloquent and tried."]}, {"id": "E7.10.47", "lines": ["He sent to Guraz words of cold disdain:", "“You worthless villain, steeped in guilt and stain."]}, {"id": "E7.10.48", "lines": ["I summoned you to court time after time,", "But you have turned from loyalty to crime."]}, {"id": "E7.10.49", "lines": ["The troops beside you, through each month and year,", "Like Ormozd, have sustained your fortunes here,"]}, {"id": "E7.10.50", "lines": ["All back great Caesar both in heart and will,", "And hide their inward treason, seeming still."]}, {"id": "E7.10.51", "lines": ["Send me those men who turn from my command,", "Who plot rebellion in your armed band.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.52", "lines": ["When this arrived, the wary chieftain thought,", "And weighed the danger that the letter brought."]}, {"id": "E7.10.53", "lines": ["He chose twelve thousand horsemen, brave and bold,", "And spoke to loosen fear’s increasing hold:"]}, {"id": "E7.10.54", "lines": ["“Be one in heart and let no tongue betray;", "Let no man’s words divide you on the way."]}, {"id": "E7.10.55", "lines": ["Remain awhile upon this river’s side,", "And do not hurry on with hasty stride."]}, {"id": "E7.10.56", "lines": ["If tongue and heart are joined in single will,", "You may uproot a mountain through that skill.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.57", "lines": ["The army moved ahead in ordered train,", "Toward Khorra-e-Ardeshir’s broad plain."]}, {"id": "E7.10.58", "lines": ["Beside the Tigris stream they formed in rank,", "And pitched their rebel tents upon the bank."]}, {"id": "E7.10.59", "lines": ["The king refused to look upon their face,", "But sent forth Zad Farrokh to state his case."]}, {"id": "E7.10.60", "lines": ["He ordered him to say, “Till now you stood", "Beside the Shah and served him as you should."]}, {"id": "E7.10.61", "lines": ["Why did you let great Caesar cross our bound,", "And bring invading armies onto our ground?"]}, {"id": "E7.10.62", "lines": ["Who has transgressed the road of God and right,", "And left the path of duty for the night?”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.63", "lines": ["At Khosrow’s message, edged with royal dread,", "The soldiers’ faces darkened as it spread."]}, {"id": "E7.10.64", "lines": ["None dared to answer; all remained in pain,", "Pale-faced and silent by the river plain."]}, {"id": "E7.10.65", "lines": ["The messenger served Guraz in his heart,", "Yet hid that loyalty with subtle art."]}, {"id": "E7.10.66", "lines": ["He went in private to the leaders’ side,", "And lit their darkened thoughts where fears abide."]}, {"id": "E7.10.67", "lines": ["“Fear not, O chiefs; let heart and tongue combine;", "The Shah has found no open fault or sign."]}, {"id": "E7.10.68", "lines": ["Be one in heart and tongue; let none point out", "Which man among you stands beneath a doubt."]}, {"id": "E7.10.69", "lines": ["If one is blamed, one tent shall cover all;", "We stand as one, whatever may befall.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.70", "lines": ["The chiefs all heard him, understood his aim,", "And shaped their answer in the selfsame frame."]}, {"id": "E7.10.71", "lines": ["Then Zad Farrokh returned with flying speed,", "And told the Shah their answer as agreed."]}, {"id": "E7.10.72", "lines": ["The Shah said, “Go again to them and say:", "‘Which man among you chose betrayal’s way?"]}, {"id": "E7.10.73", "lines": ["Whom has ill-fated Caesar made his own", "With treasure, arms, with royal crown and throne?"]}, {"id": "E7.10.74", "lines": ["That man has sinned against our royal name,", "And turned from crown and throne to lasting shame."]}, {"id": "E7.10.75", "lines": ["Send all such disaffected men to me,", "Or every rebel shall my anger see."]}, {"id": "E7.10.76", "lines": ["If not, the dungeon and the gibbet wait,", "For those who leave obedience to the state.’”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.77", "lines": ["Then Zad Farrokh conveyed the royal threat;", "Old griefs awoke, and anger fed regret."]}, {"id": "E7.10.78", "lines": ["None dared to speak; they mourned in silence deep,", "Their minds awake, though tongues were sunk in sleep."]}, {"id": "E7.10.79", "lines": ["Then Zad Farrokh spoke out with shameless breath:", "“Why fear the Shah and all his threats of death?"]}, {"id": "E7.10.80", "lines": ["Among these young and valiant troops, I find", "No weakling and no coward left behind."]}, {"id": "E7.10.81", "lines": ["His troops are scattered through the world afar;", "At court no chief upholds his royal star."]}, {"id": "E7.10.82", "lines": ["Despise my words; fear none of my own threats;", "Curse me and curse the Shah without regrets.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.83", "lines": ["They heard and knew the king’s good Fortune fled;", "Their lips shaped curses, wrath within them spread."]}, {"id": "E7.10.84", "lines": ["Then Zad Farrokh returned and spoke his mind:", "“The troops stand joined, of one accord and kind."]}, {"id": "E7.10.85", "lines": ["If sent again, I fear for my own life;", "Their hearts are armed with mutiny and strife.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.86", "lines": ["Khosrow perceived, “This knave will cause a flood", "Of tears and battle, and a waste of blood.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.87", "lines": ["He feared the envoy’s brother, held his tongue,", "And hid the truth, though bitter thoughts had stung."]}, {"id": "E7.10.88", "lines": ["For Rostam had revolted in that land,", "With ten full thousand swordsmen at command."]}, {"id": "E7.10.89", "lines": ["He kept Zad Farrokh’s cause close to his heart,", "And drew his own men to the rebels’ part."]}, {"id": "E7.10.90", "lines": ["Now Zad Farrokh knew well the Shah had guessed", "Whose hand had stirred the army to unrest."]}, {"id": "E7.10.91", "lines": ["So when the malcontent had left the hall,", "He dared not face the Shah again at all."]}, {"id": "E7.10.92", "lines": ["He stayed outside and worked upon the crowd,", "And spoke to men in whispers and aloud."]}, {"id": "E7.10.93", "lines": ["He won them one by one, till every cord", "Of loyalty was severed from their lord."]}, {"id": "E7.10.94", "lines": ["He told them all; they answered with one voice:", "“Another Shah must be the nation’s choice."]}, {"id": "E7.10.95", "lines": ["This king has lost the farr, the royal way,", "The Fortune that once brightened every day.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.96", "lines": ["With Zad Farrokh there was an ancient man,", "Skilled in affairs and careful in his plan."]}, {"id": "E7.10.97", "lines": ["He said, “The Shah imputes the army’s fault", "To you; his hidden anger will not halt."]}, {"id": "E7.10.98", "lines": ["Until you find a king to take the crown,", "Let no more quarrels tear this country down."]}, {"id": "E7.10.99", "lines": ["This thriving land will fall to ruin and woe;", "Iran, like Niran, grief and strife will know."]}, {"id": "E7.10.100", "lines": ["Look through his sons for modesty and grace,", "And choose the one who gives no quarrel place."]}, {"id": "E7.10.101", "lines": ["Enthrone him, give him honor and the crown,", "And over him let gold be showered down."]}, {"id": "E7.10.102", "lines": ["Since shrewd Shiruyeh, eldest-born, lies bound,", "No other prince need anywhere be found.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.103", "lines": ["They all agreed; within a few short days", "Tukhar’s troops marched on through the dusty haze."]}, {"id": "E7.10.104", "lines": ["His coming made their daunting tasks seem light,", "And gave them hope to carry through their fight."]}, {"id": "E7.10.105", "lines": ["Then Zad Farrokh went out to Tukhar’s side,", "With many troops in martial ranks allied."]}, {"id": "E7.10.106", "lines": ["They met, and much discourse between them passed,", "In public and in private, first and last."]}, {"id": "E7.10.107", "lines": ["Then Zad Farrokh let loose his tongue and told", "The wrongs Khosrow had done in days grown cold."]}, {"id": "E7.10.108", "lines": ["He said, “The troops, through counsel and through might,", "Will set a king upon the throne outright.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.109", "lines": ["The sepahbod replied, “I shun all talk;", "In war I block each path my foes would walk."]}, {"id": "E7.10.110", "lines": ["This king, when young, was loved by every chief,", "By every Pahlevan beyond belief."]}, {"id": "E7.10.111", "lines": ["When such a man’s bright day is turned to night,", "May crown and throne be kept from every sight."]}, {"id": "E7.10.112", "lines": ["The fatal hour began when he turned unjust,", "And loved the crimes of servants he would trust.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.113", "lines": ["When Zad Farrokh heard all that Tukhar said,", "He chose him from the chiefs; to him he pled:"]}, {"id": "E7.10.114", "lines": ["“We go to prison, where the luckless wait,", "And bear Shiruyeh, the brave prince, through the gate."]}, {"id": "E7.10.115", "lines": ["Six thousand proven horsemen, with their chief,", "Keep watch upon the captives in their grief.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.116", "lines": ["Tukhar replied, “We held that captain light,", "That guardian with all his troops of might."]}, {"id": "E7.10.117", "lines": ["If Khosrow rises once more to command,", "No Pahlevan will live in Iran’s land."]}, {"id": "E7.10.118", "lines": ["The gibbet, bonds, and dungeon wait for all;", "No man shall flee the kingdom’s coming fall.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.119", "lines": ["He spoke and urged his charger toward the fight,", "Like Azargashasp in his fiery might."]}, {"id": "E7.10.120", "lines": ["He led his forces forward in array;", "The captain met him fiercely on the way."]}, {"id": "E7.10.121", "lines": ["Those famous troops were shattered in the fray,", "The army’s captain met his death that day."]}, {"id": "E7.10.122", "lines": ["The royal forces scattered in that strife;", "The day grew dark; the king’s cause lost its life."]}, {"id": "E7.10.123", "lines": ["In battle dress, through battle’s opened way,", "He entered that cramped prison straightaway."]}, {"id": "E7.10.124", "lines": ["He called exalted Shiruyeh from the cell;", "The prince replied, and knew his purpose well."]}, {"id": "E7.10.125", "lines": ["At Tukhar’s shining face, his sorrow spread;", "His heart swelled up with grief and aching dread."]}, {"id": "E7.10.126", "lines": ["Yet still he wept: “Where is Parviz today?", "To free us is no task for you, I say.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.127", "lines": ["Tukhar replied, “Do not deny our will,", "Or count yourself apart, resisting still."]}, {"id": "E7.10.128", "lines": ["If one in sixteen sons should fail our need,", "Still fifteen brothers wait of royal seed."]}, {"id": "E7.10.129", "lines": ["Each one is fit for sovereignty and crown;", "Each one would grace the throne of high renown.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.130", "lines": ["Shiruyeh, still bewildered, wept, then passed", "Beyond the prison door that held him fast."]}, {"id": "E7.10.131", "lines": ["Meanwhile, Zad Farrokh barred the royal gate,", "And kept all news from Khosrow until late."]}, {"id": "E7.10.132", "lines": ["He stood as chamberlain before the court,", "And barred all access, cutting off report."]}, {"id": "E7.10.133", "lines": ["As daylight faded, each lord sought his bed;", "He summoned those by whom the watch was led."]}, {"id": "E7.10.134", "lines": ["He said, “Tonight proclaim a different word;", "Let not last night’s old name again be heard."]}, {"id": "E7.10.135", "lines": ["Through every watch cry out Qobad alone;", "Let that new title through the night be known!”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.136", "lines": ["They answered: “Khosrow’s name shall fade tonight;", "Qobad shall ring till dawn brings back the light!”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.137", "lines": ["When night had drawn about its pitch-black cloak,", "From town and market one great clamor broke:"]}, {"id": "E7.10.138", "lines": ["“Forever live Qobad, of noble strain;", "May every province glorify his reign.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.139", "lines": ["Khosrow lay sleeping, Shirin by his side;", "She heard the watchmen’s cry and shook inside."]}, {"id": "E7.10.140", "lines": ["She cried, “O Shah, what shall we do tonight?", "What act remains to meet this sudden plight?”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.141", "lines": ["Her voice awoke the Shah; he stirred in pain,", "And heard her anxious words with sharp disdain."]}, {"id": "E7.10.142", "lines": ["He said, “Moon-face, why rouse me from my sleep?”", "She said, “The watchmen cry from every keep.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.143", "lines": ["He paled, and said, “Three watches now have fled;", "Recall the words the star-reader once said."]}, {"id": "E7.10.144", "lines": ["I named him so in secret; all the court", "Called him Shiruyeh, by the world’s report."]}, {"id": "E7.10.145", "lines": ["This steward calls him Qobad in the night;", "We must make ready for a secret flight."]}, {"id": "E7.10.146", "lines": ["To Chin, or Machin, Makran we may go,", "And pass by guile beyond our watchful foe."]}, {"id": "E7.10.147", "lines": ["Then from the Faghfoor I shall seek a force,", "And ask the lord of Chin to aid our course.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.148", "lines": ["But darkened Fortune made his counsel vain;", "His guile could find no path beyond his pain."]}, {"id": "E7.10.149", "lines": ["Then Shirin said, “The destined hour is here;", "Our foes have mastered all our guile, I fear."]}, {"id": "E7.10.150", "lines": ["Now use your wisdom; on no foe rely;", "At dawn our enemies will draw close by.”"]}, {"id": "E7.10.151", "lines": ["He called for jowshan, helm of Roman craft,", "Two Indian swords, and shaft on feathered shaft."]}, {"id": "E7.10.152", "lines": ["His quiver and his golden shield were brought,", "With one brave servant, fearless when he fought."]}, {"id": "E7.10.153", "lines": ["He reached the garden in the dark of night,", "When waking crows foretold the morning light."]}, {"id": "E7.10.154", "lines": ["No room among the trees for a throne was found;", "His shield hung from a branch above the ground."]}, {"id": "E7.10.155", "lines": ["On saffron and narcissus sat the king;", "Beneath his knee he laid his sword’s cold sting."]}, {"id": "E7.11.1", "lines": ["When sunlight shot its arrows on the plain,", "The enemy approached the palace lane."]}, {"id": "E7.11.2", "lines": ["The workers of the Div’s dark labor came,", "And circled round the splendid royal frame."]}, {"id": "E7.11.3", "lines": ["They found the throne abandoned and alone,", "And men despoiled the treasures as their own."]}, {"id": "E7.11.4", "lines": ["No one considered Khosrow’s grief and pain;", "They seized his wealth beneath the new king’s reign."]}, {"id": "E7.11.5", "lines": ["They all returned with tears that filled their eyes,", "Dismayed by all the changes of the skies."]}, {"id": "E7.11.6", "lines": ["What shall we ask of heaven’s turning sphere,", "That never rests throughout the circling year?"]}, {"id": "E7.11.7", "lines": ["To one it grants a crown and royal state;", "To feed the fishes is another’s fate."]}, {"id": "E7.11.8", "lines": ["One wanders bareheaded, and without bread,", "And sleeps without a shelter or a bed."]}, {"id": "E7.11.9", "lines": ["Another tastes of milk and honey sweet,", "In silk, brocade, and furs from head to feet."]}, {"id": "E7.11.10", "lines": ["At last both lie beneath the burial ground;", "In death’s dark snare both high and low are bound."]}, {"id": "E7.11.11", "lines": ["For sages, never to be born were best,", "Since being gives no mortal creature rest."]}, {"id": "E7.11.12", "lines": ["Now hear new toil for Khosrow’s fallen state;", "I bring fresh knowledge of his altered fate."]}, {"id": "E7.11.13", "lines": ["The Shah remained within that meadow wide,", "A lofty tree above him at his side."]}, {"id": "E7.11.14", "lines": ["When half the lengthened day had passed him by,", "The pangs of hunger made his strength run dry."]}, {"id": "E7.11.15", "lines": ["Within the garden, one poor laborer stayed,", "Who did not know the king whom he obeyed."]}, {"id": "E7.11.16", "lines": ["The sun-faced Shah addressed the slave, who knelt:", "“Cut off the jeweled strip of this gold belt.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.17", "lines": ["That piece displayed five golden studs of worth,", "With jewels bright as stars above the earth."]}, {"id": "E7.11.18", "lines": ["The king then told the gardener, “Take these;", "They may provide us what we need with ease."]}, {"id": "E7.11.19", "lines": ["Buy bread and roast within the market square,", "And shun the crowds, and of all eyes beware.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.20", "lines": ["The gems were worth, to one who prized their kind,", "Full thirty thousand silver coins combined."]}, {"id": "E7.11.21", "lines": ["The gardener brought the golden piece for bread,", "And showed it to the baker, who then said:"]}, {"id": "E7.11.22", "lines": ["“Its worth is more than I can claim to know;", "I dare not let this golden treasure go.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.23", "lines": ["They next approached a jeweler skilled in gold,", "And asked what price the workmanship might hold."]}, {"id": "E7.11.24", "lines": ["He scanned each stud and cried, “Who would be bold", "Enough to buy such treasure, were it sold?"]}, {"id": "E7.11.25", "lines": ["Such pieces lay in Khosrow’s jeweled store;", "Each year a hundred new ones swelled it more."]}, {"id": "E7.11.26", "lines": ["From whom were these bright jewels stolen away?", "Cut from a sleeping servant where he lay?”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.27", "lines": ["The three men hurried to Zad Farrokh’s gate,", "And brought the gold and gems to learn their fate."]}, {"id": "E7.11.28", "lines": ["He saw the severed piece of golden band,", "Then bore it to the prince who held command."]}, {"id": "E7.11.29", "lines": ["Shiruyeh said, “Now name the owner here,", "And make the source of these bright jewels clear."]}, {"id": "E7.11.30", "lines": ["Refuse, and I shall strike your head away,", "And all your kin shall meet that fate today.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.31", "lines": ["The gardener answered, “In the garden’s shade,", "A man in jowshan sits there, fearless, staid."]}, {"id": "E7.11.32", "lines": ["He holds a bow, a tall and royal sight;", "His spring-bright cheeks make all the garden bright."]}, {"id": "E7.11.33", "lines": ["His jowshan shines like sun across the field;", "A branch above him bears his golden shield."]}, {"id": "E7.11.34", "lines": ["Before him stood a servant, girdle bound,", "Who cut this piece with gems set all around."]}, {"id": "E7.11.35", "lines": ["He handed it to me and bade me go", "To market for bread and meat, avoiding show."]}, {"id": "E7.11.36", "lines": ["Swift as the wind, I left him there just now.”", "Shiruyeh knew Khosrow by that shape and brow."]}, {"id": "E7.11.37", "lines": ["He sent three hundred horsemen out in force,", "Who raced toward the garden on their course."]}, {"id": "E7.11.38", "lines": ["When Khosrow saw them coming from afar,", "He paled and drew his keen-edged scimitar."]}, {"id": "E7.11.39", "lines": ["But when they saw the king of kings arrayed", "In jowshan, back they turned, in tears, dismayed."]}, {"id": "E7.11.40", "lines": ["They went to Zad Farrokh and said in shame:", "“We are but slaves; he bears the royal name."]}, {"id": "E7.11.41", "lines": ["He is Khosrow Parviz, our rightful king,", "Whom this black day has stripped of everything."]}, {"id": "E7.11.42", "lines": ["No man in garden or in battle-fray", "Would dare affront him in the slightest way.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.43", "lines": ["Then Zad Farrokh brought soldiers from the court,", "And went alone to make his own report."]}, {"id": "E7.11.44", "lines": ["He said, “If now the Shah will let me speak,", "And grant the safety for my deeds I seek,"]}, {"id": "E7.11.45", "lines": ["I will come in and speak, or turn my face,", "And make my way again to my own place.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.46", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “Say what you have to say;", "You bring no comfort, seek no war today.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.47", "lines": ["He said, “Consider this with sober thought:", "Though you should slay a thousand as you fought,"]}, {"id": "E7.11.48", "lines": ["You still would weary of the war you wage,", "While all Iran stands fast against your rage."]}, {"id": "E7.11.49", "lines": ["Against you all stand joined in heart and mind;", "Wait now, and see what Heaven has designed."]}, {"id": "E7.11.50", "lines": ["Perhaps this hate may turn to love one day.”", "Khosrow replied, “Yes, it is as you say."]}, {"id": "E7.11.51", "lines": ["What most I fear are vile men drawing near,", "Who may abuse me without shame or fear.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.52", "lines": ["When Zad Farrokh had spoken to the king,", "The old prediction made his sorrow sting."]}, {"id": "E7.11.53", "lines": ["For astrologers had once foretold his fate,", "And stirred his heart to grief at what might wait:"]}, {"id": "E7.11.54", "lines": ["“Between two mountains shall your death be found,", "A servant kills you, with no crowd around."]}, {"id": "E7.11.55", "lines": ["One height is gold, the other silver-bright;", "Between them, broken-hearted, ends your light."]}, {"id": "E7.11.56", "lines": ["Your sky is gold; beneath you iron lies;", "Your Fortune turns to grief before your eyes.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.57", "lines": ["He said, “This armor now is earth to me,", "My golden shield the heaven I can see."]}, {"id": "E7.11.58", "lines": ["The mountains are these garden treasures bright,", "That filled my heart, as lamps fill rooms with light."]}, {"id": "E7.11.59", "lines": ["In truth my days are drawing to their end;", "Where is my star that once made worlds attend?"]}, {"id": "E7.11.60", "lines": ["Where are the peace and joy that once were mine?", "Where are the crowns on which my name would shine?”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.61", "lines": ["They brought an elephant; his soul was dark,", "And sorrow quenched in him its royal spark."]}, {"id": "E7.11.62", "lines": ["He mounted, and the troops led him away;", "In Pahlavi he cried aloud that day:"]}, {"id": "E7.11.63", "lines": ["“O treasure, if you have become my foe,", "Be not a friend to those who bring me low."]}, {"id": "E7.11.64", "lines": ["Today I stand in Ahriman’s command;", "You do not help me in this hostile land."]}, {"id": "E7.11.65", "lines": ["Conceal yourself and show yourself to none;", "Let not my foes rejoice in what is done.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.66", "lines": ["Qobad then gave his minister this word:", "“Let no ill word concerning him be heard."]}, {"id": "E7.11.67", "lines": ["Convey him now to Tisfoon, lead the way,", "And guide him to that house where he shall stay."]}, {"id": "E7.11.68", "lines": ["Keep him some days in custody, but safe;", "Let no rough hand or word his spirit chafe."]}, {"id": "E7.11.69", "lines": ["Let Galinush the keeper’s charge fulfill,", "A thousand horsemen subject to his will.”"]}, {"id": "E7.11.70", "lines": ["When heaven had turned its circle overhead,", "His reign through thirty-eight full years had spread."]}, {"id": "E7.11.71", "lines": ["On Dey-day, under frosty Azar’s sign,", "When hearth-fires glow and feasters ask for wine,"]}, {"id": "E7.11.72", "lines": ["Then Qobad rose and took the royal seat,", "And sat upon the throne in joy complete."]}, {"id": "E7.11.73", "lines": ["All Iran’s troops paid homage at his court;", "He gave a year’s full pay for their support."]}, {"id": "E7.11.74", "lines": ["He lived but seven months beyond that day;", "Call him a Shah or nothing, as you may."]}, {"id": "E7.11.75", "lines": ["Such is this house of wrong in which we stay;", "Expect no faith from it along the way."]}]}, {"id": "E8", "title": "Shiruyeh’s Coup and the End of the Great Reign", "summary": "6 sections · 563 couplets", "path": "/poem/e8/", "couplets": [{"id": "E8.1.1", "lines": ["When Shiruyeh sat upon the splendid throne,", "And took the royal crown to be his own,"]}, {"id": "E8.1.2", "lines": ["Iran’s chiefs gathered round the royal seat,", "And offered fitting blessings at his feet."]}, {"id": "E8.1.3", "lines": ["They cried, “O honored Shah, whom God has crowned,", "O king of many gifts, of worth renowned."]}, {"id": "E8.1.4", "lines": ["The ivory throne bears you safe and sure;", "May earthly rule within your line endure.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.5", "lines": ["Qobad replied, “Be conquering and blessed;", "May happiness within your hearts find rest."]}, {"id": "E8.1.6", "lines": ["We never will take evil as our part;", "Justice with mercy gladdens every heart."]}, {"id": "E8.1.7", "lines": ["The world I keep in peace beneath my hand,", "And Ahriman’s works I cut from the land."]}, {"id": "E8.1.8", "lines": ["By law of old and precedent secure,", "The Faith’s full grace shall steadfastly endure."]}, {"id": "E8.1.9", "lines": ["I will dispatch a message to my sire,", "And tell him all that justice must require."]}, {"id": "E8.1.10", "lines": ["His wicked deeds have brought him to this plight,", "For he forsook the path of truth and right."]}, {"id": "E8.1.11", "lines": ["Let him before Yazdan confess his sin,", "And let a life of just accord begin."]}, {"id": "E8.1.12", "lines": ["If he shall heed me, he will not resent", "My conduct, nor condemn my whole intent."]}, {"id": "E8.1.13", "lines": ["Then I will strive for justice in all cares,", "In public and in private state affairs."]}, {"id": "E8.1.14", "lines": ["I will do good where good is rightly due,", "And break no poor man’s heart in what I do."]}, {"id": "E8.1.15", "lines": ["I need two honest men of measured speech,", "Whose minds old lore and ancient lessons teach.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.16", "lines": ["He asked the gathered chiefs, “Whom shall I send?", "Who in Iran is shrewd, a truthful friend?”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.17", "lines": ["The warriors’ glances silently bestowed", "Their choice on two wise men to take the road."]}, {"id": "E8.1.18", "lines": ["Qobad perceived the choice in every glance:", "Ashtad was one, well versed in circumstance."]}, {"id": "E8.1.19", "lines": ["Kharrad Barzin was named, the other sage,", "Who spoke with wisdom gathered through his age."]}, {"id": "E8.1.20", "lines": ["Qobad addressed them: “O experienced men,", "Wise chiefs who know how Fortune turns, and when,"]}, {"id": "E8.1.21", "lines": ["Do not find worldly hardship strange or vain;", "The great through travail gather wealth and gain.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.22", "lines": ["With brimming eyes the two prepared to ride,", "Their purpose firm, though sorrow swelled inside."]}, {"id": "E8.1.23", "lines": ["Kharrad Barzin set forth upon the way,", "With Ashtad Gashasp, sorrowing that day."]}, {"id": "E8.1.24", "lines": ["When both had mounted, Qobad, as they went,", "Said, “Leave the palace now with good intent."]}, {"id": "E8.1.25", "lines": ["Take now the road to Tisfoon; there convey", "To my glorious sire the words I say."]}, {"id": "E8.1.26", "lines": ["Bear every word in mind from first to last,", "And let no part be hidden, blurred, or passed."]}, {"id": "E8.1.27", "lines": ["Say: ‘Neither we nor Iran caused your fall;", "Your own misjudgments brought about it all."]}, {"id": "E8.1.28", "lines": ["You left the path of Faith and goodness due;", "God’s punishment has therefore fallen on you."]}, {"id": "E8.1.29", "lines": ["No rightful son would strike his father dead,", "Nor give assent when others urged bloodshed."]}, {"id": "E8.1.30", "lines": ["Again, your treasures overflow the earth,", "While your exactions drain each province’s worth."]}, {"id": "E8.1.31", "lines": ["You filled the hearts of upright men with pain,", "And left them bowed beneath your harsh domain."]}, {"id": "E8.1.32", "lines": ["Many brave riders, famed in Iran’s name,", "Who gladdened courts with courage, birth, and fame,"]}, {"id": "E8.1.33", "lines": ["Have left their lands, their sons, their kin most dear,", "And scattered through Rum, Chin, and each frontier."]}, {"id": "E8.1.34", "lines": ["Again, when Caesar labored much for you,", "And gave you legions, daughter, treasure too,"]}, {"id": "E8.1.35", "lines": ["He asked that Christ’s own Cross to Rum be brought,", "To bless his land and home, as he had sought."]}, {"id": "E8.1.36", "lines": ["What profit was the Cross, kept in its place,", "When yielding it would win his friendly grace?"]}, {"id": "E8.1.37", "lines": ["You did not yield it; wisdom failed your mind,", "And none could turn your heart toward being kind."]}, {"id": "E8.1.38", "lines": ["Again, your greed obscured clear wisdom’s eye;", "You seized poor people’s goods and heard their cry."]}, {"id": "E8.1.39", "lines": ["Their curses rose and brought ill on your head;", "Your justice failed where royal law lay dead."]}, {"id": "E8.1.40", "lines": ["Moreover, sixteen sons you kept confined,", "Year after year to prison walls consigned."]}, {"id": "E8.1.41", "lines": ["No chief could sleep secure because of you;", "Each hid in fear from what your will might do."]}, {"id": "E8.1.42", "lines": ["Know, what has struck you now is sent by God;", "Reflect upon the evil roads you trod."]}, {"id": "E8.1.43", "lines": ["For all your wrongs, I was the means, no more,", "By which this trouble reached your royal door."]}, {"id": "E8.1.44", "lines": ["By God, it was not my design or aim", "To wreck the throne or bring the Shah to shame."]}, {"id": "E8.1.45", "lines": ["Seek pardon for these wrongs; tell Iran’s chiefs;", "Turn back to God for help in all your griefs."]}, {"id": "E8.1.46", "lines": ["Perhaps He will relieve the griefs you bear,", "And show a passage from your last despair.’”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.47", "lines": ["On hearing this, the two rode from the court,", "Their hearts grief-stricken by the dark report."]}, {"id": "E8.1.48", "lines": ["In tears they rode until they reached the wall", "Of great Tisfoon; grief lay on them like a pall."]}, {"id": "E8.1.49", "lines": ["To Mahraspand’s ancestral house they pressed,", "With heavy grief weighing on every breast."]}, {"id": "E8.1.50", "lines": ["For there the exalted king was kept confined,", "With court and royal power left behind."]}, {"id": "E8.1.51", "lines": ["Galinush sat before the palace gate;", "His martial splendor seemed to shake the state."]}, {"id": "E8.1.52", "lines": ["He wore his helm and breastplate, armed for fight,", "With steel gorz grasped, his heart all storm and light."]}, {"id": "E8.1.53", "lines": ["The Arab steeds wore armor row on row,", "And sword-armed soldiers stood with martial show."]}, {"id": "E8.1.54", "lines": ["When old Kharrad and Ashtad had dismounted,", "Those sages whose renown the wise recounted,"]}, {"id": "E8.1.55", "lines": ["Galinush rose, rejoicing at their sight,", "And welcomed both famed chiefs with great delight."]}, {"id": "E8.1.56", "lines": ["He gave them fitting place and proper cheer,", "And honored them as men of name held dear."]}, {"id": "E8.1.57", "lines": ["The eloquent Kharrad then spoke with art,", "With boldness on his tongue and in his heart:"]}, {"id": "E8.1.58", "lines": ["“The glorious Qobad, now crowned, maintains", "In peace the wide Kayanian domains."]}, {"id": "E8.1.59", "lines": ["Iran, Turan, and Rum have heard the thing:", "Shiruyeh sits now as king of every king."]}, {"id": "E8.1.60", "lines": ["Why helm and armor, why this ready bow?", "Whom do you fear? Whom do you count a foe?”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.61", "lines": ["Galinush answered, “Veteran, prosper long;", "May Fortune keep your honored spirit strong."]}, {"id": "E8.1.62", "lines": ["You ask about this delicate frame of mine,", "Clad in an iron shirt of such design."]}, {"id": "E8.1.63", "lines": ["Your kindness wins my blessing; you deserve", "Rich gems and honors, all that kings reserve."]}, {"id": "E8.1.64", "lines": ["Your words are good. May sunlight crown your way;", "First state your purpose; then ask what you may.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.65", "lines": ["Kharrad replied, “The glorious Qobad’s word", "Has sent me here, and it must now be heard."]}, {"id": "E8.1.66", "lines": ["He charged me to address the fallen king;", "Now seek an audience for the words I bring.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.67", "lines": ["Galinush said, “Who else could keep them true,", "O honored sage, remembering as you do?"]}, {"id": "E8.1.68", "lines": ["Yet Qobad gave me counsel on this head,", "And charged me thus about the king; he said:"]}, {"id": "E8.1.69", "lines": ["‘Let no man visit Khosrow night or day,", "Until you first have heard what he would say.’"]}, {"id": "E8.1.70", "lines": ["In Farsi or in Pahlavi, I must hear", "Whatever message you would carry here.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.71", "lines": ["Ashtad replied, “My message is not sealed,", "O favored warden, with your sword and shield."]}, {"id": "E8.1.72", "lines": ["It says, ‘The sword bears fruit in this embrace:", "Proud chieftains’ heads within the lap find place.’"]}, {"id": "E8.1.73", "lines": ["Now ask for audience of the captive king,", "That we may speak what Shah Qobad would bring.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.74", "lines": ["Galinush heard and rose and bound his belt,", "Then entered where the fallen monarch dwelt."]}, {"id": "E8.1.75", "lines": ["With folded arms, as servants should, he said:", "“Live ever, Shah; let no ill touch your head."]}, {"id": "E8.1.76", "lines": ["Ashtad and Kharrad Barzin, men of fame,", "Bring words from him who bears the royal name.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.77", "lines": ["Khosrow laughed and said, “Speak words more wise;", "If he is king, what am I in your eyes?"]}, {"id": "E8.1.78", "lines": ["If I am held a captive in this place,", "Why seek my leave to come before my face?"]}, {"id": "E8.1.79", "lines": ["Whether their words be false or words be true,", "What need to ask my leave to bring them through?”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.80", "lines": ["Galinush came back to the waiting two,", "And gave the Shah’s reply, complete and due."]}, {"id": "E8.1.81", "lines": ["He said, “Go in with folded arms, and say", "The words you bear; then hear him out today.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.82", "lines": ["In Chinese silk they wrapped the mouth and chin,", "As ancient rites required of men within."]}, {"id": "E8.1.83", "lines": ["They bowed before the Shah, their heads bent low,", "And stood a long while there before him so."]}, {"id": "E8.1.84", "lines": ["Upon his jeweled throne the Shah reclined;", "There sheep and wolves in woven gold were twined."]}, {"id": "E8.1.85", "lines": ["With gems and gold the figures shone arrayed;", "His mattress lay beneath yellow brocade."]}, {"id": "E8.1.86", "lines": ["He leaned against a cushion lapis-blue,", "A quince in hand, while grief within him grew."]}, {"id": "E8.1.87", "lines": ["When he beheld those chiefs of wisdom bright,", "He roused himself and prayed to God for light."]}, {"id": "E8.1.88", "lines": ["He set the quince upon the cushion down,", "Then greeted both the envoys of the crown."]}, {"id": "E8.1.89", "lines": ["The quince slipped from the cushion, smoothly round,", "Rolled down across the couch and reached the ground."]}, {"id": "E8.1.90", "lines": ["Ashtad ran forward, wiped away the dust,", "And laid it on his head in loyal trust."]}, {"id": "E8.1.91", "lines": ["Khosrow turned his face from Ashtad’s place,", "So he would neither see nor scent its trace."]}, {"id": "E8.1.92", "lines": ["They set the quince again upon the throne,", "And stood aside, uncertain, still as stone."]}, {"id": "E8.1.93", "lines": ["The falling quince alarmed the captive king;", "He found no happy omen in the thing."]}, {"id": "E8.1.94", "lines": ["He said, “O Judge of truth, the One, the Just,", "Who raises what Your sentence casts to dust?"]}, {"id": "E8.1.95", "lines": ["Who joins what You have broken with Your hand?", "Who can restore what You will not let stand?"]}, {"id": "E8.1.96", "lines": ["Bright Fortune from our house has taken flight,", "And brought deep sorrow after days of light.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.97", "lines": ["Then to Ashtad he said, “Now bring the word", "From my own monstrous child, whose shame is heard,"]}, {"id": "E8.1.98", "lines": ["And from that scattered band of servants, sore", "With hatred, black of heart and base at core."]}, {"id": "E8.1.99", "lines": ["Malignant fools they are; in folly’s net,", "They drown in malice, blind to all regret."]}, {"id": "E8.1.100", "lines": ["Our Fortune leaves; our joy and crown decay;", "The throne will pass to worthless folk one day."]}, {"id": "E8.1.101", "lines": ["This royal tree will be destroyed by fate;", "The base will rise, the noble fall from state."]}, {"id": "E8.1.102", "lines": ["Nor will our line remain as high and great;", "Our friends will turn against us, filled with hate."]}, {"id": "E8.1.103", "lines": ["They will revile and ruin all our race;", "This quince has shown the secret to my face."]}, {"id": "E8.1.104", "lines": ["The throne of kings is stripped of fruit and flower;", "Now speak the words you heard in this dark hour."]}, {"id": "E8.1.105", "lines": ["His words are worth less than the stream’s swift flow;", "Repeat his charges; let me hear and know.”"]}, {"id": "E8.1.106", "lines": ["The two men loosed their tongues and told him all,", "All Qobad said concerning rise and fall."]}, {"id": "E8.1.107", "lines": ["They kept not even one small whisper back;", "The king heard all and felt his spirit crack."]}, {"id": "E8.1.108", "lines": ["He writhed in grief and drew a deep cold sigh,", "Then spoke to them with pain in voice and eye:"]}, {"id": "E8.1.109", "lines": ["“Hear now my answer; carry every word", "To that young prince whose charge from you I heard."]}, {"id": "E8.1.110", "lines": ["Say: ‘Quit your own misdeeds before you blame;", "These are not words that from your own mind came."]}, {"id": "E8.1.111", "lines": ["A curse upon your tongue for such a speech;", "Do not let folly give your foes such reach."]}, {"id": "E8.1.112", "lines": ["Nor let them learn from words that others frame", "Your mind lacks knowledge worthy of your name."]}, {"id": "E8.1.113", "lines": ["If you put trust in speech that brings no gain,", "Both soul and judgment suffer equal stain."]}, {"id": "E8.1.114", "lines": ["Who calls you wicked, then proclaims you king", "Should not before you judge a single thing."]}, {"id": "E8.1.115", "lines": ["Let no such man direct affairs of state,", "In any matter, whether small or great."]}, {"id": "E8.1.116", "lines": ["Send no such messages another day,", "Or foes will take delight in what you say."]}, {"id": "E8.1.117", "lines": ["God has prepared my work and paved my road;", "My treasure in the other world is stowed."]}, {"id": "E8.1.118", "lines": ["And by these lying charges you have made,", "No noble heart will praise the part you played.’”"]}, {"id": "E8.2.1", "lines": ["“Now I will make full answer; mark it well,", "Repeat my words wherever people dwell."]}, {"id": "E8.2.2", "lines": ["They shall remain my witness when I die,", "A truthful record none may set awry."]}, {"id": "E8.2.3", "lines": ["Then you will know, when I unfold my pain,", "That all my treasures came through toil and strain."]}, {"id": "E8.2.4", "lines": ["You first have spoken of my father’s days,", "Of Hormizd’s anger and his bitter ways."]}, {"id": "E8.2.5", "lines": ["My father’s wrath against us rose through lies,", "By slanderers’ tongues that darkened royal eyes."]}, {"id": "E8.2.6", "lines": ["When I perceived the purpose of his thought,", "By night I fled the roads his servants sought."]}, {"id": "E8.2.7", "lines": ["I sought a road of flight and slipped away,", "Nor let the trap of trouble make me stay."]}, {"id": "E8.2.8", "lines": ["His hostile purpose was no fault of mine;", "Escape alone could foil his dark design."]}, {"id": "E8.2.9", "lines": ["When tidings of my father’s harm were heard,", "I left Barda upon that grievous word."]}, {"id": "E8.2.10", "lines": ["That knave Bahram Chubin with his train", "Opposed me fiercely on the battle plain."]}, {"id": "E8.2.11", "lines": ["I fled from him upon the day of fight,", "Lest I should fall within his grasp and might."]}, {"id": "E8.2.12", "lines": ["But afterward I came with troops afield,", "And fought him with the force I chose to wield."]}, {"id": "E8.2.13", "lines": ["Not once alone did we contend in strife;", "The world looked on as each fought for his life."]}, {"id": "E8.2.14", "lines": ["By God’s command, whose blessings never cease,", "Who guides through good and ill, through war and peace,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.15", "lines": ["Iran and Turan came to peace again,", "And all of Bahram’s schemes proved fruitless then."]}, {"id": "E8.2.16", "lines": ["Released from war, I turned at once to take", "The vengeance owed for my slain father’s sake."]}, {"id": "E8.2.17", "lines": ["Bandvi and Gostaham, my mother’s brothers,", "Were peerless men, surpassing many others."]}, {"id": "E8.2.18", "lines": ["They risked their lives for me through love and kin,", "And yet my father’s blood cried out within."]}, {"id": "E8.2.19", "lines": ["His murder left me grieving and dismayed;", "I would not let my vengeance be delayed."]}, {"id": "E8.2.20", "lines": ["I struck off Bandvi’s hand and foot that day,", "For he had helped to sweep my sire away."]}, {"id": "E8.2.21", "lines": ["And Gostaham, who sought a distant land,", "Was suddenly struck down at my command."]}, {"id": "E8.2.22", "lines": ["Those murderers’ lives and purposes were crossed;", "Their aims were broken, and their hopes were lost."]}, {"id": "E8.2.23", "lines": ["Next, as to what you said of your own case,", "Your narrow bonds, your prison, and disgrace,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.24", "lines": ["I kept my sons apart from evil ways,", "Lest harm recoil upon their future days."]}, {"id": "E8.2.25", "lines": ["You were not bound in hardship or in pain,", "Nor made to fear disgrace or hurtful strain."]}, {"id": "E8.2.26", "lines": ["No scorn was meant; my treasury was yours,", "As former Shahs had opened royal stores."]}, {"id": "E8.2.27", "lines": ["I acted by precedent, not in pride,", "Nor cast ancestral custom there aside."]}, {"id": "E8.2.28", "lines": ["The chase, the harp, the polo field, the feast,", "All princely sports were yours, from most to least."]}, {"id": "E8.2.29", "lines": ["You had your hawks and cheetahs, gems and gold,", "And all delights a princely house could hold."]}, {"id": "E8.2.30", "lines": ["Your so-called prison was a palace bright,", "Where you passed days in pleasure and delight."]}, {"id": "E8.2.31", "lines": ["I feared you, too, for what the star-readers said,", "Their dark prediction burning in my head."]}, {"id": "E8.2.32", "lines": ["Yet now the very harm I feared appears,", "And all their words have ripened into tears."]}, {"id": "E8.2.33", "lines": ["I never parted with the starry scroll", "That warned of danger to the crown and soul."]}, {"id": "E8.2.34", "lines": ["I sealed it, then to Shirin gave the same,", "To keep the secret of your star and name."]}, {"id": "E8.2.35", "lines": ["When thirty-six years of my reign had passed,", "Amid those happy days that could not last—"]}, {"id": "E8.2.36", "lines": ["You surely keep this matter still in mind,", "Though time has left those distant days behind—"]}, {"id": "E8.2.37", "lines": ["From distant Hind a letter reached your hand;", "I too had read it, and I understand."]}, {"id": "E8.2.38", "lines": ["The Raja sent us with that letter’s grace", "Fine jewels, cloth, and treasures from each place,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.39", "lines": ["An Indian sword, an elephant snow-white,", "And all that I could wish for my delight."]}, {"id": "E8.2.40", "lines": ["With that keen sword came cloth of golden weave,", "And polished gems whose worth none could conceive."]}, {"id": "E8.2.41", "lines": ["The letter sent to you on silk then bore", "The script of Hind, whose words I would explore."]}, {"id": "E8.2.42", "lines": ["When I beheld the Indian script displayed,", "I called an Indian scribe to give me aid."]}, {"id": "E8.2.43", "lines": ["He read the Raja’s words, then shook his head,", "And shed his tears upon the words he read."]}, {"id": "E8.2.44", "lines": ["It said, ‘Live joyfully, for you are worth", "Both joy and realm and mastery on earth."]}, {"id": "E8.2.45", "lines": ["In Azar’s month, when Dey’s day comes around,", "You shall become world-ruler, and be crowned."]}, {"id": "E8.2.46", "lines": ["Your sire will reign for thirty-eight full years;", "Then stars will set your crown above your peers."]}, {"id": "E8.2.47", "lines": ["Your fortunate days will shine with royal light,", "A crown of greatness on your head set bright.’"]}, {"id": "E8.2.48", "lines": ["These words have been fulfilled to me today,", "Yet love should not be washed from hearts away."]}, {"id": "E8.2.49", "lines": ["I knew that fortune had decreed for you", "A throne made bright while mine was darkened too."]}, {"id": "E8.2.50", "lines": ["I knew my portion would be grief and care,", "My shining day would darken to despair."]}, {"id": "E8.2.51", "lines": ["Compassion, faith, and kinship held their part;", "Through love, that letter never chilled my heart."]}, {"id": "E8.2.52", "lines": ["I read it, pondering each warning deep,", "Then gave the letter to Shirin to keep."]}, {"id": "E8.2.53", "lines": ["In Shirin’s keeping lie the letter sealed,", "And horoscope that once your fate revealed."]}, {"id": "E8.2.54", "lines": ["No great or small man knows of either one;", "The secret has been hidden from the sun."]}, {"id": "E8.2.55", "lines": ["If you would see them, ask, and you shall learn;", "Then judge what thoughts within your heart may turn."]}, {"id": "E8.2.56", "lines": ["I think that seeing it will make you rue,", "And seek some cure for what you came to do."]}, {"id": "E8.2.57", "lines": ["You spoke of bonds, imprisonment, and pain,", "And how we injured others in our reign."]}, {"id": "E8.2.58", "lines": ["That is the rule of kings from former days;", "Ask learned Mobadan of the old ways."]}, {"id": "E8.2.59", "lines": ["If you do not know, ask what they advise;", "Their answer will stand clear before your eyes:"]}, {"id": "E8.2.60", "lines": ["‘For him who is God’s enemy, this life", "Is evil, darkened by his wicked strife.’"]}, {"id": "E8.2.61", "lines": ["Those in our prison were mere Divs in form,", "Whose deeds against the just became a storm."]}, {"id": "E8.2.62", "lines": ["Bloodshed and cruelty were never mine;", "I never made oppression kingship’s sign."]}, {"id": "E8.2.63", "lines": ["I kept the wicked caged, because their spite", "Had wrought such harm as no man counted slight."]}, {"id": "E8.2.64", "lines": ["But now I hear that you have freed these men,", "Worse than fierce dragons loosed from pit and den."]}, {"id": "E8.2.65", "lines": ["For this you sin alike in word and deed,", "Before the God whose judgment all must heed."]}, {"id": "E8.2.66", "lines": ["Now you are king, be prudent in your will;", "Consult the wise if you lack royal skill."]}, {"id": "E8.2.67", "lines": ["Spare not the man from whom afflictions flow,", "Though hopes of treasure from his service grow."]}, {"id": "E8.2.68", "lines": ["What better check than prison to restrain", "The man who brings the world but grief and pain?"]}, {"id": "E8.2.69", "lines": ["Your charge about my wealth reveals you blind", "To royal judgment and a prudent mind."]}, {"id": "E8.2.70", "lines": ["We sought but toll and tribute men could pay,", "From those with strength to bear that charge each day."]}, {"id": "E8.2.71", "lines": ["Men called them foes, born of an evil breed,", "The wicked offspring of Ahriman’s seed."]}, {"id": "E8.2.72", "lines": ["But since we kept the thought of God in view,", "We passed those words by, giving them no due."]}, {"id": "E8.2.73", "lines": ["From Him I had the crown and royal state;", "The price was dear, as all men know my fate."]}, {"id": "E8.2.74", "lines": ["The Maker, righteous Judge of king and slave,", "Has willed this change and darkened what He gave."]}, {"id": "E8.2.75", "lines": ["In all this world His will is paramount;", "We seek no more when He has closed account."]}, {"id": "E8.2.76", "lines": ["We sought to please our Judge through every toil,", "Yet could not flee the share of fate’s recoil."]}, {"id": "E8.2.77", "lines": ["When He shall question me, I will tell all;", "His judgment weighs both rise and final fall."]}, {"id": "E8.2.78", "lines": ["That Questioner is wiser far than you,", "And judges what is false and what is true."]}, {"id": "E8.2.79", "lines": ["Those miscreants who stand before you now", "Are neither friends nor faithful to their vow."]}, {"id": "E8.2.80", "lines": ["What they say now of me, they will say too", "Of you before your foes when time is due."]}, {"id": "E8.2.81", "lines": ["They are the slaves of silver and of gold;", "No helper will you find in such a fold."]}, {"id": "E8.2.82", "lines": ["Through them your heart is stained; yet let us clear", "The guilt with which you charge your father here."]}, {"id": "E8.2.83", "lines": ["These words lie far beyond your mind’s poor reach;", "No man shall profit from such evil speech."]}, {"id": "E8.2.84", "lines": ["I speak for those in future days who read", "This Pahlavi account of word and deed."]}, {"id": "E8.2.85", "lines": ["It shall remain a record, standing fast,", "A banner of wise counsel at the mast."]}, {"id": "E8.2.86", "lines": ["It shall console each searching, thoughtful mind,", "And teach our policy to humankind."]}, {"id": "E8.2.87", "lines": ["After our death, whoever reads this page", "Will know the rule that governed king and sage."]}, {"id": "E8.2.88", "lines": ["From Bartas and from Chin troops I conveyed,", "And sepahbods throughout the realm arrayed."]}, {"id": "E8.2.89", "lines": ["I struck my foes through mountain, plain, and land,", "Till none against me dared arise and stand."]}, {"id": "E8.2.90", "lines": ["When they were scattered, treasure filled each store;", "The whole land labored and produced still more."]}, {"id": "E8.2.91", "lines": ["So many gems they drew from ocean’s floor,", "The sailors wearied with the work they bore."]}, {"id": "E8.2.92", "lines": ["Plain, sea, and mountain all my will obeyed;", "Their wealth was daily to my treasury paid."]}, {"id": "E8.2.93", "lines": ["When all the silver in our vaults ran dry,", "New minted gold renewed the whole supply."]}, {"id": "E8.2.94", "lines": ["There precious stones and royal jewels lay,", "With clothes and gear of war in bright array."]}, {"id": "E8.2.95", "lines": ["When I had worn the crown for twenty-six years,", "Our treasuries were rich beyond all fears."]}, {"id": "E8.2.96", "lines": ["I struck new silver coins and turned to joy,", "To merriment no sorrow could destroy."]}, {"id": "E8.2.97", "lines": ["That year, I counted tribute, reckoned all;", "A hundred thousand bags of coin met the call."]}, {"id": "E8.2.98", "lines": ["Each bag held twelve full thousand coins of gold;", "Their royal worth was more than could be told."]}, {"id": "E8.2.99", "lines": ["Besides came wealth from India’s royal hand,", "From Rum and every distant foreign land."]}, {"id": "E8.2.100", "lines": ["Besides came tribute from each province wide,", "And gifts from lords and rulers on each side."]}, {"id": "E8.2.101", "lines": ["Our court received their offerings at New Year,", "And Mehr brought gifts when autumn days drew near."]}, {"id": "E8.2.102", "lines": ["They brought fine horses and fair-faced slaves,", "And arms in shining heaps like running waves."]}, {"id": "E8.2.103", "lines": ["Cuirasses, helmets, gorzes, blades well-wrought,", "As tribute to our palace door were brought."]}, {"id": "E8.2.104", "lines": ["Musk, camphor, sable, costly furs they bore,", "Black, white, and tawny pelts piled on the floor."]}, {"id": "E8.2.105", "lines": ["Our subjects loaded beasts with costly freight,", "And hastened to our royal palace gate."]}, {"id": "E8.2.106", "lines": ["None held back tribute or refused to serve;", "Their payments did not falter, fail, or swerve."]}, {"id": "E8.2.107", "lines": ["We built this guarded hoard through toil and care,", "Reserved for war and hardships we might bear."]}, {"id": "E8.2.108", "lines": ["Beside the hoards Arus and Khazra lay", "This wealth, reserved against an evil day."]}, {"id": "E8.2.109", "lines": ["We long debated what its name should be,", "And called it Bad Awar by royal decree."]}, {"id": "E8.2.110", "lines": ["Thus in the twenty-sixth year of my crown,", "High Heaven smiled and set my foes all down,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.111", "lines": ["Until the thirty-eighth full year had come;", "My chiefs were safe, my enemies struck dumb."]}, {"id": "E8.2.112", "lines": ["Now I have heard the orders you have made;", "Through them, the world is troubled and dismayed."]}, {"id": "E8.2.113", "lines": ["The world, deprived of pleasure, must be mute;", "Your reign will fill the earth with bitter fruit."]}, {"id": "E8.2.114", "lines": ["You will make earth calamitous and bare,", "With suffering and ruin everywhere."]}, {"id": "E8.2.115", "lines": ["Moreover, those destructive men you found,", "Whose counsel lights your darkness all around,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.116", "lines": ["Will cast your throne away and leave no trace,", "And rob your kingship of its joy and grace."]}, {"id": "E8.2.117", "lines": ["Were there one sage beside you in your hall,", "To light your darkened mind before its fall,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.118", "lines": ["You would not err in giving wealth away;", "The worthy would receive it day by day."]}, {"id": "E8.2.119", "lines": ["My son, your days are few, your wisdom slight;", "Anxiety will rob your soul of light."]}, {"id": "E8.2.120", "lines": ["Know this: our treasures are your royal stay;", "The chance remains within your grasp today."]}, {"id": "E8.2.121", "lines": ["These treasures are the sinews of the crown;", "A king without them soon is beaten down."]}, {"id": "E8.2.122", "lines": ["A pauper Shah will rule unjustly still,", "And empty hands lack strength for royal will."]}, {"id": "E8.2.123", "lines": ["Without the means to give, a king will fall,", "Declared a fraud and not a Shah by all."]}, {"id": "E8.2.124", "lines": ["Should riches reach your foes at your command,", "They are like idols in a Brahman’s hand."]}, {"id": "E8.2.125", "lines": ["Then worshippers will turn aside from God,", "And spurn your fame beneath dishonor’s rod."]}, {"id": "E8.2.126", "lines": ["If you are treasureless, no army stays;", "Your subjects will not hail you with their praise."]}, {"id": "E8.2.127", "lines": ["The dog begs bread; but sate his appetite,", "And he may turn against you with a bite."]}, {"id": "E8.2.128", "lines": ["Again, you blamed my battle plans and said", "I stationed troops along each road ahead."]}, {"id": "E8.2.129", "lines": ["You blame through ignorance, not knowing gain", "From loss, nor how kings guard the open plain."]}, {"id": "E8.2.130", "lines": ["Through toil I gathered treasure for the crown,", "Took foreign cities, fought and struck foes down,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.131", "lines": ["That we might sit in peace, without alarm,", "Upon the pleasant throne secure from harm."]}, {"id": "E8.2.132", "lines": ["I set my horsemen on each frontier line,", "To guard the realm and keep its borders mine."]}, {"id": "E8.2.133", "lines": ["When you recall the troops from every side,", "The foe will see the roads stand open wide."]}, {"id": "E8.2.134", "lines": ["Iran is like a garden in the spring,", "Where happy blossoms never fail to cling."]}, {"id": "E8.2.135", "lines": ["It bears pomegranate, quince, and flowers bright,", "And apple branches fragrant with delight."]}, {"id": "E8.2.136", "lines": ["But when that orchard stands with none to tend,", "Its fragrant roots and branches meet their end."]}, {"id": "E8.2.137", "lines": ["The quince and pomegranate boughs they break;", "The fragrant herbs up by their roots they take."]}, {"id": "E8.2.138", "lines": ["Iran’s stout wall is army, arms, and gear;", "Along its fence, each thorn a sharpened spear."]}, {"id": "E8.2.139", "lines": ["If wantonly you tear its garden wall,", "The garden’s bloom will perish, root and all."]}, {"id": "E8.2.140", "lines": ["What then divides that garden from the plain,", "The sea or upland, when no walls remain?"]}, {"id": "E8.2.141", "lines": ["Cast not its wall down through a rash mistake,", "Or hearts and backs throughout Iran will break."]}, {"id": "E8.2.142", "lines": ["Then raid and ravage, horsemen’s battle-cry,", "And drawn-out vengeance follow, rising high."]}, {"id": "E8.2.143", "lines": ["Expose not wives and children, realm and land", "To ruin by your young and reckless hand."]}, {"id": "E8.2.144", "lines": ["Let but one such year pass, and sages all", "Will name you fool for that destructive fall."]}, {"id": "E8.2.145", "lines": ["Now I have heard you give high place and rank", "To men unworthy, men whose hearts are blank."]}, {"id": "E8.2.146", "lines": ["Know this: wise Anooshirvan, Qobad’s son,", "Set down this counsel on what should be done:"]}, {"id": "E8.2.147", "lines": ["Who gives his weapons to a hostile hand", "Gives up his life to slaughter in the land."]}, {"id": "E8.2.148", "lines": ["When he would claim those arms again for fight,", "His foe will turn them on him in his might."]}, {"id": "E8.2.149", "lines": ["As for the message Caesar sent to you,", "You called me self-willed, wavering, untrue."]}, {"id": "E8.2.150", "lines": ["You do not know the facts, nor judge them right;", "Some counselor has darkened all your sight."]}, {"id": "E8.2.151", "lines": ["You praise his faith, and blame my faithless way;", "What faith or faithlessness is, can you say?"]}, {"id": "E8.2.152", "lines": ["Receive my answer, you of little wit,", "Yet hear the right in what I now submit."]}, {"id": "E8.2.153", "lines": ["You are the plaintiff and the witness too,", "A thing no man of wisdom ought to do."]}, {"id": "E8.2.154", "lines": ["When Caesar cast the dust of grief away,", "He chose me as his son-in-law that day."]}, {"id": "E8.2.155", "lines": ["For valor’s sake he joined his house to mine,", "And placed his kin within my royal line."]}, {"id": "E8.2.156", "lines": ["Who does not walk with evil as his guide", "Knows Bahram first began that violent tide."]}, {"id": "E8.2.157", "lines": ["The Iranians took his side to strike me down,", "And raised their hands once more against my crown."]}, {"id": "E8.2.158", "lines": ["No Roman force could make that army yield;", "Can drifting sand contest a mountain’s field?"]}, {"id": "E8.2.159", "lines": ["But God granted His aid upon that day,", "And all the world’s great armies seemed as clay."]}, {"id": "E8.2.160", "lines": ["The Iranians know these matters as they stood;", "Ask them and judge the truth, as wise men should."]}, {"id": "E8.2.161", "lines": ["As for myself, I gave him every good", "And served Niyatus kindly as I could."]}, {"id": "E8.2.162", "lines": ["Upon the day of battle I showed grace,", "And dealt with him in honor face to face."]}, {"id": "E8.2.163", "lines": ["I reckoned his reward upon that day;", "Zad Farrokh too can witness what I say."]}, {"id": "E8.2.164", "lines": ["Look not upon the world with boyish eyes;", "Let Gashasp tell you where the record lies."]}, {"id": "E8.2.165", "lines": ["He was our treasurer and kept the store;", "Our minister, the priest, can tell you more."]}, {"id": "E8.2.166", "lines": ["I gave the Roman legions from my hoard", "A hundred thousand bags of coin as reward."]}, {"id": "E8.2.167", "lines": ["A thousand ruby jewels to him I sent,", "Red stones for earrings, rich in ornament."]}, {"id": "E8.2.168", "lines": ["Each jewel weighed a thousand mithqals then,", "By treasury weight accounted among men."]}, {"id": "E8.2.169", "lines": ["I gave a thousand robes of Chin, arrayed", "With gems and gold upon their rich brocade."]}, {"id": "E8.2.170", "lines": ["A hundred thousand silver coins would pay", "For each, so those who valued gems would say."]}, {"id": "E8.2.171", "lines": ["I gave a hundred flawless pearls, a gift", "Whose value jewelers alone could sift."]}, {"id": "E8.2.172", "lines": ["Each pearl was worth full thirty thousand more,", "In silver coins by every jeweler’s score."]}, {"id": "E8.2.173", "lines": ["I sent one hundred noble steeds beside,", "Selected from my stables in their pride."]}, {"id": "E8.2.174", "lines": ["Fifty were saddled, fifty choice and fleet,", "Each fit to race where desert pathways meet."]}, {"id": "E8.2.175", "lines": ["They wore brocade and matched the wind in pace;", "I sent them all to Caesar with my grace."]}, {"id": "E8.2.176", "lines": ["As for the Cross of Christ within my store,", "That ancient wood you asked about before,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.177", "lines": ["It brought no loss or gain to me at all;", "Some Christian’s talk has held your mind in thrall."]}, {"id": "E8.2.178", "lines": ["I marveled that great Caesar, strong and wise,", "With priests and learned men before his eyes,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.179", "lines": ["With philosophers and counselors of fame,", "Should call one executed God by name."]}, {"id": "E8.2.180", "lines": ["As for that dry and rotten piece of wood,", "If it were God, Yazdan Himself there stood"]}, {"id": "E8.2.181", "lines": ["Within our treasury, where it would not stay,", "But vanish like Christ from the world away."]}, {"id": "E8.2.182", "lines": ["Again, you said: ‘Before Yazdan confess;", "Amend your conduct, and your wrongs redress.’"]}, {"id": "E8.2.183", "lines": ["My answer is: may Qobad’s hands decline,", "His feet and tongue and lips all waste and pine."]}, {"id": "E8.2.184", "lines": ["It was God who placed the crown upon my head;", "I took His gift and wore it till it fled."]}, {"id": "E8.2.185", "lines": ["Since He required the crown, I gave it back;", "What more remains upon this bitter track?"]}, {"id": "E8.2.186", "lines": ["To Him I will confess, not to a child", "Who cannot judge what ruin has defiled."]}, {"id": "E8.2.187", "lines": ["All that God ordains is welcome to my soul,", "Though grief and misery have claimed their toll."]}, {"id": "E8.2.188", "lines": ["For thirty-eight full years I held the land;", "No king among all kings matched my command."]}, {"id": "E8.2.189", "lines": ["He who bestowed the world can grant it twice,", "And lays on me no debt, and asks no price."]}, {"id": "E8.2.190", "lines": ["I will pronounce a blessing on the realm:", "May wise men ever guide the turning helm."]}, {"id": "E8.2.191", "lines": ["While God remains our helper and our aid,", "No curse against us need by men be made."]}, {"id": "E8.2.192", "lines": ["Say to that foolish, rash, impetuous boy:", "‘The luster of our face has lost its joy."]}, {"id": "E8.2.193", "lines": ["Farewell forever. Now my words shall find", "Their home among the sages of mankind.’"]}, {"id": "E8.2.194", "lines": ["And as for you, illustrious envoys both,", "Eloquent Iranians, faithful to your oath,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.195", "lines": ["To both of you I also bid farewell;", "Repeat only the words you heard me tell."]}, {"id": "E8.2.196", "lines": ["I give my blessing to the world at large,", "A passing thing that none may keep in charge."]}, {"id": "E8.2.197", "lines": ["All born of mothers die, however great;", "Kay Khosrow and Kay Qobad shared that fate."]}, {"id": "E8.2.198", "lines": ["Hushang, Jamshid, and Tahmuras are dead,", "Though fear and hope once gathered round each head."]}, {"id": "E8.2.199", "lines": ["And all whom Div and beast acknowledged died", "When time extinguished all their strength and pride."]}, {"id": "E8.2.200", "lines": ["Blessed Fereydoon, who brought Zahhak to harm,", "And checked the Arab tyrant’s cruel arm,"]}, {"id": "E8.2.201", "lines": ["Escaped not fate, though brave in heart and hand;", "No valor made his mortal lifespan stand."]}, {"id": "E8.2.202", "lines": ["So Arash died, whose shaft flew far from sight,", "Its flight by farsangs measured in its might."]}, {"id": "E8.2.203", "lines": ["So Gharan, lion-catcher, paid death’s debt;", "So Kay Qobad’s bright day of kingship set."]}, {"id": "E8.2.204", "lines": ["From Alborz came a man of strength and worth,", "Who won the rule of all the folk on earth."]}, {"id": "E8.2.205", "lines": ["He built a world-famed house of crystal bright,", "With pearl and jeweled gates of gleaming light."]}, {"id": "E8.2.206", "lines": ["So Siavash, famed lion, passed from sight,", "Who slew two tigers in his youthful might."]}, {"id": "E8.2.207", "lines": ["He built Gangdezh with toil, yet did not gain", "Enduring treasure from that work or pain."]}, {"id": "E8.2.208", "lines": ["Where Rostam, Zal, and Esfandiyar of fame,", "Whose memories are monuments of name?"]}, {"id": "E8.2.209", "lines": ["Where Gudarz and his seventy chosen sons,", "Those lions of the fray, those mounted ones?"]}, {"id": "E8.2.210", "lines": ["Where Shah Goshtasb, who chose the Good Faith’s light,", "And made its holy farr renew its might?"]}, {"id": "E8.2.211", "lines": ["Where now Jamasp, who read the heavens clear,", "Whose wisdom outshone sunlight in its sphere?"]}, {"id": "E8.2.212", "lines": ["Gone are the wise and great, the men of old;", "Gone are the warriors, valorous and bold."]}, {"id": "E8.2.213", "lines": ["All left the palace, hall, and riding-ground;", "Their pride is dust, their fame a passing sound."]}, {"id": "E8.2.214", "lines": ["My son’s throne too shall pass when I am gone;", "His Fortune from that seat shall hasten on."]}, {"id": "E8.2.215", "lines": ["When comes the angel, I shall make this plea:", "‘Take gently now this parting soul from me.’"]}, {"id": "E8.2.216", "lines": ["Repentance shall make bright the heart within;", "Our harmlessness be armor for our skin."]}, {"id": "E8.2.217", "lines": ["When we must cross the Chinvat Bridge one day,", "May flowers lie beneath our feet, we pray."]}, {"id": "E8.2.218", "lines": ["This is the message that I leave behind:", "My words are for the world, for all mankind."]}, {"id": "E8.2.219", "lines": ["Farewell to you; may gladness with you stay,", "And cast all evil thoughts of me away.”"]}, {"id": "E8.2.220", "lines": ["Ashtad and Kharrad Barzin heard with grief,", "And beat their heads before the fallen chief."]}, {"id": "E8.2.221", "lines": ["They rued the words that they themselves had said,", "And struck their cheeks, with dust upon each head."]}, {"id": "E8.2.222", "lines": ["They left in tears; Shiruyeh heard each word,", "The Shah’s full message, just as they had heard."]}, {"id": "E8.3.1", "lines": ["When Shiruyeh heard, his bitter tears ran down;", "His heart grew fearful of the throne and crown."]}, {"id": "E8.3.2", "lines": ["The gathered chiefs withdrew; their words had fed", "The call for blood against his father’s head."]}, {"id": "E8.3.3", "lines": ["Their ugly words had burned the young king’s heart;", "He left the throne and drew himself apart."]}, {"id": "E8.3.4", "lines": ["With both his hands he clasped his head to weep;", "His grief denied him food and peaceful sleep."]}, {"id": "E8.3.5", "lines": ["For Khosrow’s pain, his eyes with tears were red;", "He wept; his bosom caught the blood he shed."]}, {"id": "E8.3.6", "lines": ["The army heard; its chiefs were filled with fear", "To learn the king still held his father dear."]}, {"id": "E8.3.7", "lines": ["They gathered, spoke of Khosrow’s fallen state,", "And spoke of all they feared would be their fate:"]}, {"id": "E8.3.8", "lines": ["“If he should sit upon the throne again,", "The gallows wait for us, his leading men.”"]}, {"id": "E8.3.9", "lines": ["When sunlight climbed above the eastern hills,", "The malcontents awoke with angry wills."]}, {"id": "E8.3.10", "lines": ["They went to court; the Shah, when this was known,", "Came forth and took his place upon the throne."]}, {"id": "E8.3.11", "lines": ["Then chiefs, both kin and strangers, filled the place;", "They sat in silence, anger on each face."]}, {"id": "E8.3.12", "lines": ["He knew the cause of all their silent grief,", "And spoke these words to every troubled chief:"]}, {"id": "E8.3.13", "lines": ["“A king not moved by his own father’s pain", "Is base in heart and birth, and earns disdain."]}, {"id": "E8.3.14", "lines": ["For he is like a willow rotted through,", "Yet fouler still; let none believe him true.”"]}, {"id": "E8.3.15", "lines": ["“Who serves two kings,” a rebel captain said,", "“Is fool and wretch, however nobly bred.”"]}, {"id": "E8.3.16", "lines": ["Shiruyeh said, “A king must have his store", "Of treasure, or his army is no more."]}, {"id": "E8.3.17", "lines": ["For one month more, let gentle words be heard;", "Let no one speak a harsh or bitter word."]}, {"id": "E8.3.18", "lines": ["His counsel yet may bring us joy and gain;", "His treasures fill the breadth of his domain.”"]}, {"id": "E8.3.19", "lines": ["On hearing this, the chiefs rose from their place,", "And each went homeward with a guarded face."]}, {"id": "E8.3.20", "lines": ["Then to the cooks Shiruyeh gave commands:", "“Withhold no food that Khosrow’s need demands."]}, {"id": "E8.3.21", "lines": ["Serve rich and sweetened dishes, all displayed", "On golden trays before the captive laid.”"]}, {"id": "E8.3.22", "lines": ["The servers brought him dishes of each kind,", "But Khosrow, touching none of them, declined."]}, {"id": "E8.3.23", "lines": ["From Shirin’s loving hand alone he fed,", "While on her breast she wept with grief and dread."]}, {"id": "E8.4.1", "lines": ["Now hear Barbad’s lament; within your breast", "Let love for noble greatness find its rest."]}, {"id": "E8.4.2", "lines": ["He heard the Shah had lost his throne and state,", "Driven against his will to such a fate."]}, {"id": "E8.4.3", "lines": ["From Jahram Barbad came in grief profound,", "To seek Tisfoon, where royal woes abound."]}, {"id": "E8.4.4", "lines": ["He saw the fallen Shah, his aspect bleak;", "The ruby glow had faded from his cheek."]}, {"id": "E8.4.5", "lines": ["Awhile before the king he stood in pain,", "Then left the hall and raised his mourning strain."]}, {"id": "E8.4.6", "lines": ["The Shah could hear his lamentation rise;", "His keeper heard those agonizing cries."]}, {"id": "E8.4.7", "lines": ["The guards began to weep; their hearts became", "As flesh consumed upon affection’s flame."]}, {"id": "E8.4.8", "lines": ["With faded face, and heart that grief laid low,", "In Pahlavi he let his mourning flow:"]}, {"id": "E8.4.9", "lines": ["“O Shah, O noble chief, O great Khosrow,", "O mighty hero, hear my cry of woe:"]}, {"id": "E8.4.10", "lines": ["Where is your greatness, where your royal throne,", "Your crown and all the splendor you have known?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.11", "lines": ["Where is your stature, where your crown so bright?", "Where armlets, ivory throne, and royal might?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.12", "lines": ["Where is the manliness that ruled alone,", "Beneath whose wings the world became your own?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.13", "lines": ["Where are your women, minstrels, now withdrawn,", "Your gate, your hall, your chiefs from dusk to dawn?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.14", "lines": ["Where is your crown, the Kaviani sign,", "And violet swords that made your armies shine?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.15", "lines": ["Where are your earrings, golden throne on high,", "The lofty state that none but you came by?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.16", "lines": ["Where is your helmet, jowshan wrought of gold,", "Your gem-linked armor glorious to behold?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.17", "lines": ["Where is Shabdiz, with golden stirrups bright,", "Who stirred beneath you, restless in his might?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.18", "lines": ["Where are the riders, gold upon each rein,", "Whose swords found sheaths in foes that they had slain?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.19", "lines": ["Where are your mules, the litters bright with gold,", "The servants who obeyed your word of old?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.20", "lines": ["Your mounts and camels, white elephant too,", "Have lost all hope that life remains for you."]}, {"id": "E8.4.21", "lines": ["Where is your fluent tongue, your courteous art,", "Your purpose, ardent soul, and kingly heart?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.22", "lines": ["Why have you now been left bereft and lone?", "What book foretold the grief this day has shown?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.23", "lines": ["Trust not this world, whose cure is weak and vain;", "Its remedy is feebler than its bane."]}, {"id": "E8.4.24", "lines": ["You wished a son to lend you strength and aid;", "Now with his gift of pain you are repaid."]}, {"id": "E8.4.25", "lines": ["By sons kings gather strength that will endure,", "And pass through time’s dark night with honor pure."]}, {"id": "E8.4.26", "lines": ["Yet as his son grew strong and straight and tall,", "The king of kings beheld his vigor fall."]}, {"id": "E8.4.27", "lines": ["Let none who hears Khosrow Parviz’s fate", "Trust worldly promises and learn too late."]}, {"id": "E8.4.28", "lines": ["Count ruined all Iran, a broken land,", "Where leopards, lions roam on every hand."]}, {"id": "E8.4.29", "lines": ["The Shah stood head of Sasan’s royal line;", "No crown or throne shall see his equal shine."]}, {"id": "E8.4.30", "lines": ["The foemen’s wishes now are satisfied;", "The line lies ruined, Iran at its side."]}, {"id": "E8.4.31", "lines": ["No king commanded troops of greater might;", "Yet who among them helped him in his plight?"]}, {"id": "E8.4.32", "lines": ["The realm’s protector caused this bitter fall;", "Now through the breach the wolf comes past the wall."]}, {"id": "E8.4.33", "lines": ["Say this to Shiruyeh: ‘Shah devoid of shame,", "Such conduct stains the court and royal name."]}, {"id": "E8.4.34", "lines": ["Your army will not stand and hold its ground", "When war arises on all sides around.’"]}, {"id": "E8.4.35", "lines": ["God aid your soul, my master, in its pain,", "And fling your foemen headlong to the plain."]}, {"id": "E8.4.36", "lines": ["By God, your name, my king, I swear this thing,", "By Nowruz, Mehr, and by the joyous spring:"]}, {"id": "E8.4.37", "lines": ["If ever this hand touches harp or lute,", "May blessings shun my door, and joy be mute."]}, {"id": "E8.4.38", "lines": ["My instruments of music I will burn,", "And from your enemy in loathing turn.”"]}, {"id": "E8.4.39", "lines": ["Four fingers from his plucking hand he sheared,", "His face with blood and tears of sorrow smeared;"]}, {"id": "E8.4.40", "lines": ["He went back home and lit a blazing fire,", "And burned his instruments upon the pyre."]}, {"id": "E8.4.41", "lines": ["All who had wronged the Shah took deep alarm,", "And feared lest Fortune’s turning bring them harm."]}, {"id": "E8.4.42", "lines": ["Shiruyeh, young and fearful, came to see", "His throne a trap from which he could not flee."]}, {"id": "E8.4.43", "lines": ["Each man of judgment saw the realm’s decline:", "The days of greatness would no longer shine."]}, {"id": "E8.5.1", "lines": ["The men who had conspired against his reign", "Came to the royal court, a sullen train."]}, {"id": "E8.5.2", "lines": ["They stood before Qobad, grim men of guile,", "And pressed their dark design with speech of bile:"]}, {"id": "E8.5.3", "lines": ["“We said before, and now repeat our claim:", "Your heart’s concern and ours are not the same."]}, {"id": "E8.5.4", "lines": ["Two kings now share a single royal seat:", "One holds the throne, and one lies at his feet."]}, {"id": "E8.5.5", "lines": ["If love should grow between the son and sire,", "Your servants’ heads will answer to their ire."]}, {"id": "E8.5.6", "lines": ["This cannot be; of such things speak no more.”", "At this, the Shah grew frightened to the core."]}, {"id": "E8.5.7", "lines": ["He shook with fear, for there within their hand", "He was a slave, though lord of crown and land."]}, {"id": "E8.5.8", "lines": ["He said, “None but a man of evil name", "Would draw Shiruyeh to this snare of shame."]}, {"id": "E8.5.9", "lines": ["Go home, take counsel, find a man who may", "In secret take this grievous care away.”"]}, {"id": "E8.5.10", "lines": ["The Shah’s ill-wishers sought a murderer then,", "To kill by stealth the greatest one of men."]}, {"id": "E8.5.11", "lines": ["But none had courage for that bloody deed,", "Or dared to make the royal Khosrow bleed."]}, {"id": "E8.5.12", "lines": ["Who dared to hang a mountain round his neck?", "The very thought would hold such men in check."]}, {"id": "E8.5.13", "lines": ["They found a wretch, blue-eyed and pale of face;", "Dust on his feet proclaimed his wretched case."]}, {"id": "E8.5.14", "lines": ["His body gaunt and hairy, lips dark blue,", "His head was bare, and hunger gnawed him through."]}, {"id": "E8.5.15", "lines": ["No man of high or low rank knew his name;", "May Paradise deny his soul all claim."]}, {"id": "E8.5.16", "lines": ["For his slain father’s blood, and gold beside,", "He pledged to pierce the monarch in his pride."]}, {"id": "E8.5.17", "lines": ["“This task is mine,” he said. “Give ample fare;", "Then this proud quarry falls within my snare.”"]}, {"id": "E8.5.18", "lines": ["Zad Farrokh said, “Go, if your strength is true;", "Speak now no more of what you mean to do."]}, {"id": "E8.5.19", "lines": ["I have a bag of gold to pay your fee,", "And I shall hold you as a son to me.”"]}, {"id": "E8.5.20", "lines": ["He gave the man a khanjar keen and bright;", "The murderer hurried to the captive’s sight."]}, {"id": "E8.5.21", "lines": ["He came upon the king in his retreat,", "And saw the fetters binding both his feet."]}, {"id": "E8.5.22", "lines": ["Khosrow Parviz now trembled, full of dread,", "And down his cheeks the bitter tears were shed."]}, {"id": "E8.5.23", "lines": ["He cried, “What name is yours, you wretch? Now speak;", "Your mother’s tears must flow upon her cheek.”"]}, {"id": "E8.5.24", "lines": ["The man replied, “Mehr Ormozd is my name;", "Without a friend or fellow here I came.”"]}, {"id": "E8.5.25", "lines": ["Khosrow replied, “My final hour I see;", "The basest hand has come to murder me."]}, {"id": "E8.5.26", "lines": ["That face is not a man’s; no heart draws near", "To seek your love or hold your friendship dear.”"]}, {"id": "E8.5.27", "lines": ["He bade the boy who waited at his side,", "“Bring basin, water, musk, and robes,” he cried."]}, {"id": "E8.5.28", "lines": ["“Bring abir, too, and garments fresh and clean.”", "The boy was blind to what these words might mean."]}, {"id": "E8.5.29", "lines": ["The little servant hastened on his way,", "And brought the golden basin straightaway."]}, {"id": "E8.5.30", "lines": ["He brought the robes, with ewer, water too;", "The Shah urged haste in all he had to do."]}, {"id": "E8.5.31", "lines": ["He held the barsom twigs, took baj in prayer,", "And cleansed his soul of worldly grief and care."]}, {"id": "E8.5.32", "lines": ["He donned the robes and murmured, breath by breath,", "Confession for his faults before his death."]}, {"id": "E8.5.33", "lines": ["He drew a new cloth closely round his head,", "That he might not behold the face of dread."]}, {"id": "E8.5.34", "lines": ["Then Mehr Ormozd, with khanjar drawn to slay,", "Shut fast the door and pulled the robe away."]}, {"id": "E8.5.35", "lines": ["He plunged the blade into the monarch’s waist;", "The king expired, in death’s cold arms embraced."]}, {"id": "E8.5.36", "lines": ["Such is the working of the whirling sphere,", "Whose secret no created eye sees clear."]}, {"id": "E8.5.37", "lines": ["The sage and braggart judge its whole domain", "And find that all its works are void and vain."]}, {"id": "E8.5.38", "lines": ["Be rich, or trapped in evil case and pain,", "You will not in this fleeting world remain."]}, {"id": "E8.5.39", "lines": ["Choose harmlessness and truth in all your ways,", "If you would win through justice honest praise."]}, {"id": "E8.5.40", "lines": ["When roads and markets rang with cries of woe,", "“Khosrow Parviz is slain by treachery’s blow,”"]}, {"id": "E8.5.41", "lines": ["His foes went to the prison-house of grief,", "Where fifteen sons were bound without relief."]}, {"id": "E8.5.42", "lines": ["They killed the guiltless prisoners that day;", "The Shah’s good Fortune now had turned away."]}, {"id": "E8.5.43", "lines": ["Shiruyeh, though now crowned, dared not complain,", "But hid the tears he struggled to restrain."]}, {"id": "E8.5.44", "lines": ["He wept awhile; then twenty guards would go", "To shield their wives and children from the foe."]}, {"id": "E8.5.45", "lines": ["So fell that mighty reign beyond recall:", "Force, majesty, and manhood, power, all."]}, {"id": "E8.5.46", "lines": ["No king of kings had held such power before,", "Nor tales of ancient glory told of more."]}, {"id": "E8.5.47", "lines": ["He now was equal to the man who owns", "No ample bread, no land, no palace stones."]}, {"id": "E8.5.48", "lines": ["The wise hold cheap the man who feels secure", "Against the dragon, certain to endure."]}, {"id": "E8.5.49", "lines": ["This world, a fierce nahang with tooth and claw,", "Gnaws every prey it seizes in its maw."]}, {"id": "E8.5.50", "lines": ["The work of Khosrow Parviz now is past;", "His hoards, his throne, his famed troops could not last."]}, {"id": "E8.6.1", "lines": ["Now Khosrow’s tale is told; hear what befell", "Shiruyeh and Shirin, whose end I tell."]}, {"id": "E8.6.2", "lines": ["When fifty-three full days had passed since then,", "Since that great Shah was slain by faithless men,"]}, {"id": "E8.6.3", "lines": ["Shiruyeh dispatched a messenger to say", "To Shirin, “Wicked sorceress, come away."]}, {"id": "E8.6.4", "lines": ["You potent mistress of the darkened arts,", "Most guilty woman known in Iran’s parts,"]}, {"id": "E8.6.5", "lines": ["By spells you kept the Shah beneath your hand,", "And drew the moon down at your own command."]}, {"id": "E8.6.6", "lines": ["Tremble, guilty one, and heed my decree;", "Do not sit in palace ease, secure and free.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.7", "lines": ["Shirin grew furious at his foul abuse;", "Such vile and senseless words had no excuse."]}, {"id": "E8.6.8", "lines": ["She said, “May he who has his father slain", "Lose height and farr; may neither one remain."]}, {"id": "E8.6.9", "lines": ["I will not see that wretch in joy or woe,", "Not even from afar will I do so.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.10", "lines": ["That mourning lady called a scribe to hand,", "To set in Pahlavi what she had planned."]}, {"id": "E8.6.11", "lines": ["She gave instructions, set her wealth in view,", "And told the learned scribe its value too."]}, {"id": "E8.6.12", "lines": ["She kept some poison in a chest close by;", "No need to search the town for a supply."]}, {"id": "E8.6.13", "lines": ["She sewed a burial shroud for her own form,", "That garden-cypress soon to leave the storm."]}, {"id": "E8.6.14", "lines": ["Then she returned this answer to the king:", "“O crowned, exalted Shah, hear what I bring."]}, {"id": "E8.6.15", "lines": ["Your words are leaves and wind, of little worth;", "May your vile heart and soul sink to the earth."]}, {"id": "E8.6.16", "lines": ["Who knows of witchcraft more than just its name?", "Who ever found delight in such a claim?"]}, {"id": "E8.6.17", "lines": ["Had Khosrow’s mind found joy in magic’s grace,", "What witch within his bower had seen his face?"]}, {"id": "E8.6.18", "lines": ["He kept me for good fortune and delight,", "And called me from his bower at morning light."]}, {"id": "E8.6.19", "lines": ["At sight of me he gladdened, soul and mind;", "Why slander him with words so harsh, unkind?"]}, {"id": "E8.6.20", "lines": ["Remember God, whose gifts sustain us here;", "Speak not these words for anyone to hear.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.21", "lines": ["They bore her words; the king blazed into flame", "Against the woman who was free of blame."]}, {"id": "E8.6.22", "lines": ["He said, “You must come here, before my throne;", "No thirst for blood so fierce as yours is known.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.23", "lines": ["Shirin, on hearing this, was filled with pain;", "She writhed as pallor spread its ashen stain."]}, {"id": "E8.6.24", "lines": ["She answered, “I will come, but first there must", "Be learned elders, men of lore and trust.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.25", "lines": ["Shiruyeh then summoned fifty aged men,", "Experienced chiefs of speech and practiced pen."]}, {"id": "E8.6.26", "lines": ["He sent to her, “Arise. Enough of talk.”", "She robed in mourning blue and black to walk."]}, {"id": "E8.6.27", "lines": ["She hastened to the rose garden, where all", "The nobles gathered at the royal call."]}, {"id": "E8.6.28", "lines": ["Behind the royal curtain she took a seat,", "As modest women keep themselves discreet."]}, {"id": "E8.6.29", "lines": ["He sent to her, “Two mourning months are done;", "Become my wife and share what I have won."]}, {"id": "E8.6.30", "lines": ["Avoid a mean estate and take your pleasure;", "I will support you with still greater treasure."]}, {"id": "E8.6.31", "lines": ["My father kept you honored in his day;", "I will give more respect in every way.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.32", "lines": ["Shirin replied, “First grant me justice; then", "My life is yours before these noblemen."]}, {"id": "E8.6.33", "lines": ["I will not hesitate in answering you,", "If justice first declares my honor true.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.34", "lines": ["Shiruyeh quickly gave his full assent;", "The noble lady spoke, on justice bent."]}, {"id": "E8.6.35", "lines": ["Behind the curtain thus she spoke: “O king,", "May crown and victory their blessings bring."]}, {"id": "E8.6.36", "lines": ["You called me wicked, treacherous, and vile,", "A witch whose purity was lost to guile.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.37", "lines": ["Shiruyeh said, “My youth spoke in that way;", "Bear no resentment for what young men say.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.38", "lines": ["Then Shirin turned toward Iran’s chiefs in hall,", "The gathered nobles, elders, one and all."]}, {"id": "E8.6.39", "lines": ["“What have you seen in me of fraud or ill,", "Of folly, crookedness, or darkened will?"]}, {"id": "E8.6.40", "lines": ["For years Iran had hailed me as its queen;", "I gave the brave a strength on which to lean."]}, {"id": "E8.6.41", "lines": ["I sought the truth in everything I tried;", "From crookedness and fault I stood aside."]}, {"id": "E8.6.42", "lines": ["Through me, men gained whole cities in their hand,", "And many kinds of fortune in the land."]}, {"id": "E8.6.43", "lines": ["Who saw my shadow pass beyond my door?", "Speak, if you ever witnessed this before."]}, {"id": "E8.6.44", "lines": ["Who saw the shadow of my crown pass by,", "Or of my jewels? Let him testify.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.45", "lines": ["The nobles answered fairly, one and all:", "“No peer has she in private court or hall.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.46", "lines": ["Then Shirin said, “O lords of honored name,", "Three things bring women honor and acclaim."]}, {"id": "E8.6.47", "lines": ["First, modesty with wealth to grace a spouse,", "That he may deck and dignify his house."]}, {"id": "E8.6.48", "lines": ["Next, she must bear a son of blessed birth,", "And add to her good husband’s joy and worth."]}, {"id": "E8.6.49", "lines": ["Third, beauty in her stature and her face,", "With hair kept veiled in modesty and grace."]}, {"id": "E8.6.50", "lines": ["When I was joined to Khosrow Parviz’s side,", "And knew the world anew as his own bride,"]}, {"id": "E8.6.51", "lines": ["He came from Rum with thwarted hopes, and found", "No place to settle on his native ground."]}, {"id": "E8.6.52", "lines": ["But afterward he reached such royal height", "As none had heard or seen beneath the light."]}, {"id": "E8.6.53", "lines": ["Moreover, I bore four sons to his joy:", "Nastur, Shahryar, Forood, each noble boy,"]}, {"id": "E8.6.54", "lines": ["And Mardanshah, the jewel of the sky;", "Their father’s joy in them was lifted high."]}, {"id": "E8.6.55", "lines": ["Jam and Fereydoon sired no sons to vie;", "May my tongue perish if I speak a lie.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.56", "lines": ["Then she unveiled her face before them all;", "Her musky hair in waves began to fall."]}, {"id": "E8.6.57", "lines": ["“This is the third: my face, now shown to you;", "Speak out if what I said has been untrue."]}, {"id": "E8.6.58", "lines": ["My hidden excellence was all my hair;", "No eye on earth had ever seen it bare."]}, {"id": "E8.6.59", "lines": ["This face and hair comprise my magic art;", "No fraud or dark enchantment played a part.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.60", "lines": ["No eye had seen her hair; astounded, all", "Bit on their fingers in that silent hall."]}, {"id": "E8.6.61", "lines": ["When Shiruyeh saw Shirin’s face unveiled,", "His spirit fled him, and his senses failed."]}, {"id": "E8.6.62", "lines": ["He cried, “I want none but yourself as wife;", "Iran could give no greater gift to life.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.63", "lines": ["The lady of the lovely face replied,", "“First let my own requests be now supplied."]}, {"id": "E8.6.64", "lines": ["I have two wishes I would now declare;", "May kingship long remain within your care.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.65", "lines": ["Shiruyeh said, “My soul is at your feet;", "Whatever you desire, I shall complete.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.66", "lines": ["She said, “Assign me all the treasured store", "That I have laid within this land before."]}, {"id": "E8.6.67", "lines": ["Before these noble chiefs now make it clear", "That every part of it is mine to steer."]}, {"id": "E8.6.68", "lines": ["Write on this roll that you renounce the whole.”", "Shiruyeh made haste and granted her control."]}, {"id": "E8.6.69", "lines": ["When she had gained her wish, she left the hall,", "The rose garden, the chiefs, the court, and all."]}, {"id": "E8.6.70", "lines": ["She went back home and freed her slaves, and poured", "Rich gifts upon them from her private hoard."]}, {"id": "E8.6.71", "lines": ["She gave her other wealth to those in need,", "And more to family, by loving deed."]}, {"id": "E8.6.72", "lines": ["She gave to fire-temples, rites, and days,", "To Nowruz and to Sadeh’s sacred blaze."]}, {"id": "E8.6.73", "lines": ["She gave to ruined homes and lodgings where", "Great men had rested, free of toil and care."]}, {"id": "E8.6.74", "lines": ["She gave in Khosrow’s name, that goodness might", "Bring to his soul rejoicing and delight."]}, {"id": "E8.6.75", "lines": ["Unveiled, she sat upon the garden ground,", "Bereft of scent and color, sorrow-bound."]}, {"id": "E8.6.76", "lines": ["She summoned all her folk at her behest,", "And kindly bade each one sit as a guest."]}, {"id": "E8.6.77", "lines": ["She cried aloud, “All hear, for none of you", "Shall see my face again as now you do."]}, {"id": "E8.6.78", "lines": ["Speak only truth; let no deceit arise,", "For falsehood is unworthy of the wise."]}, {"id": "E8.6.79", "lines": ["Since first I entered Khosrow Parviz’s bower,", "And was his chief wife, joy, and garden flower,"]}, {"id": "E8.6.80", "lines": ["Has any fault appeared in me at all?", "Speak now the truth before my final call."]}, {"id": "E8.6.81", "lines": ["No need remains to save my face from blame;", "For one who seeks escape, what use is fame?”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.82", "lines": ["All rose and answered, “Lady wise and chaste,", "Bright-souled, whose name no slander has defaced,"]}, {"id": "E8.6.83", "lines": ["By God, no man has seen you or once heard", "Your voice beyond the curtain, not one word."]}, {"id": "E8.6.84", "lines": ["Your like has never sat on royal throne", "Since Shah Hushang made kingly greatness known.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.85", "lines": ["The watchful slaves replied from every side,", "“O lady praised in Rum, Chin, and Taraz wide,"]}, {"id": "E8.6.86", "lines": ["Who dares speak ill of you or of your grace?", "Could evil deeds befit so pure a face?”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.87", "lines": ["Then Shirin said, “This wretch, whom skies condemn,", "Has slain his father for the diadem."]}, {"id": "E8.6.88", "lines": ["May he no more behold fair Fortune’s smile,", "Nor joy return to one so base and vile."]}, {"id": "E8.6.89", "lines": ["Has he built walls to keep out death and doom,", "Who lightly sent his father to the tomb?"]}, {"id": "E8.6.90", "lines": ["His message darkened all my soul; I live", "To serve the Maker; this reply I give."]}, {"id": "E8.6.91", "lines": ["I stated fully what I meant to do,", "Lest he defame me when my life is through.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.92", "lines": ["Her words released their sorrow from its chains;", "They wept for her and Khosrow’s bitter pains."]}, {"id": "E8.6.93", "lines": ["Her hearers sought the Shah, and there they told", "What they had heard from Shirin, pure and bold."]}, {"id": "E8.6.94", "lines": ["He asked, “Has that good lady one wish more?”", "She sent, “One final grace I now implore."]}, {"id": "E8.6.95", "lines": ["Let Khosrow’s tomb be opened, and revealed", "Once more the face that death has now concealed.”"]}, {"id": "E8.6.96", "lines": ["He gave consent; the keeper of the tomb", "Drew back the seal, and bared the royal room."]}, {"id": "E8.6.97", "lines": ["That pious lady entered weeping low,", "And laid her face on Khosrow’s face in woe."]}, {"id": "E8.6.98", "lines": ["She spoke of former days and drank the bane,", "Its poison broke her hold on life’s domain."]}, {"id": "E8.6.99", "lines": ["Beside the Shah she sat with veiled face,", "Clad in one robe of camphor-scented grace."]}, {"id": "E8.6.100", "lines": ["She leaned against the wall; her life was done,", "Her voice forever silenced, her course run."]}, {"id": "E8.6.101", "lines": ["Shiruyeh sickened when he heard; his heart", "Grew pained to see her, pierced by sorrow’s dart."]}, {"id": "E8.6.102", "lines": ["Beside the Shah he laid her form to rest,", "In that same vault, with musk and camphor dressed."]}, {"id": "E8.6.103", "lines": ["He sealed the Shah’s tomb; little time went by.", "They gave him poison; he in turn would die."]}, {"id": "E8.6.104", "lines": ["The world had had its fill of Shahs; his birth", "And death were ill-omened upon the earth."]}, {"id": "E8.6.105", "lines": ["He left the throne of kingship to his son;", "His short and troubled sovereignty was done."]}, {"id": "E8.6.106", "lines": ["He reigned seven months; in the eighth he wore", "The camphor crown and passed through death’s own door."]}, {"id": "E8.6.107", "lines": ["Of earthly goods, the throne is counted best;", "Of evils, early death brings deepest unrest."]}]}, {"id": "E9", "title": "The Years of Chaos", "summary": "6 sections · 180 couplets", "path": "/poem/e9/", "couplets": [{"id": "E9.1.1", "lines": ["Now I must tell of young Ardeshir’s reign,", "And once more make the tale of kingship plain."]}, {"id": "E9.1.2", "lines": ["At seven years the child assumed the throne;", "Before him Iran’s gathered grandees shone."]}, {"id": "E9.1.3", "lines": ["The famed old chiefs would hear the Shah’s intent,", "And learn what rule his new-made kingship meant."]}, {"id": "E9.1.4", "lines": ["Then young Ardeshir spoke before the crowd:", "“Well-tested warriors, valiant and proud,"]}, {"id": "E9.1.5", "lines": ["Whoever sits upon the royal throne", "Must worship God and make skilled speech his own."]}, {"id": "E9.1.6", "lines": ["We will pursue the former Shahs’ high way,", "Their farr and Faith, their justice day by day."]}, {"id": "E9.1.7", "lines": ["May we remember God, the Source of good,", "And rule with justice as a monarch should."]}, {"id": "E9.1.8", "lines": ["I will raise those who serve and cast down low", "Oppressors, making guilty lifeblood flow."]}, {"id": "E9.1.9", "lines": ["Pirooz Khosrow shall rule as guide and stay,", "To steer our troops and council day by day."]}, {"id": "E9.1.10", "lines": ["With such a Pahlevan, let Iran cheer,", "And keep your hearts and spirits free of fear.”"]}, {"id": "E9.1.11", "lines": ["His words brought many listeners repose;", "Contentment in their quiet hearts arose."]}, {"id": "E9.2.1", "lines": ["Then tidings reached Guraz, whose treacherous pride", "Had helped cast Khosrow and his crown aside."]}, {"id": "E9.2.2", "lines": ["From Rum he sent a messenger to say:", "“Shiruyeh’s crown lies trampled in the clay."]}, {"id": "E9.2.3", "lines": ["Let hell receive his soul, and let his tomb", "Be overturned beneath that bitter doom."]}, {"id": "E9.2.4", "lines": ["Who ever saw a cypress proud and grand", "Destroyed by grass that scarcely marked the land?"]}, {"id": "E9.2.5", "lines": ["Khosrow Parviz, whom time could not outshine,", "Bestowed on me this lordly rank of mine."]}, {"id": "E9.2.6", "lines": ["I never swerved from what he bade me do,", "But served the ruler, steadfast, firm, and true."]}, {"id": "E9.2.7", "lines": ["Yet fate dethroned him; Fortune turned her face,", "And Heaven made the grave his dwelling place."]}, {"id": "E9.2.8", "lines": ["The sun and moon cut short his royal reign;", "His crown and throne he could no more retain."]}, {"id": "E9.2.9", "lines": ["They gave the crown to Khosrow’s faithless son,", "And brought Iran to shame by what was done."]}, {"id": "E9.2.10", "lines": ["When he too passed and Ardeshir took crown,", "The people all rejoiced in his renown."]}, {"id": "E9.2.11", "lines": ["If any share of Iran is my right,", "He shall not feel its breeze by day or night."]}, {"id": "E9.2.12", "lines": ["I did not know that wicked men had led", "Khosrow to ruin through the words they spread."]}, {"id": "E9.2.13", "lines": ["I will not let a king like this one reign,", "Though all the age should kingless still remain."]}, {"id": "E9.2.14", "lines": ["His head is full of strife; his thoughts have strayed;", "Another army’s counsel is his aid."]}, {"id": "E9.2.15", "lines": ["Now I will come with armies in my train,", "With chiefs of Rum and Iran on the plain."]}, {"id": "E9.2.16", "lines": ["We then shall see who holds this lordly place,", "And favors schemes that bring such foul disgrace."]}, {"id": "E9.2.17", "lines": ["I will uproot him, root and branch and name,", "So he can make no further royal claim.”"]}, {"id": "E9.2.18", "lines": ["He sent a runner with his message, sealed,", "To Iran’s army elders in the field."]}, {"id": "E9.2.19", "lines": ["To Pirooz Khosrow now he sent a scroll,", "With altered plans to reach his darkened goal:"]}, {"id": "E9.2.20", "lines": ["“The Fortune of Sasan is veiled by cloud;", "A world-seeker must gird himself, stand proud."]}, {"id": "E9.2.21", "lines": ["Devise a remedy; let thought make clear", "What plans may serve the task before us here."]}, {"id": "E9.2.22", "lines": ["Seek helpers from all quarters of the land,", "And sweep Ardeshir from royal command."]}, {"id": "E9.2.23", "lines": ["Then all your heart’s desires shall be fulfilled;", "Live safe and glad, with all your troubles stilled."]}, {"id": "E9.2.24", "lines": ["But if you let this hidden plot be known,", "You feed revenge’s blade with blood alone."]}, {"id": "E9.2.25", "lines": ["I shall lead Roman legions in array,", "Till darkness blots out all your light of day."]}, {"id": "E9.2.26", "lines": ["Weigh well my words; consider what I state,", "Lest Roman vengeance seal your bitter fate.”"]}, {"id": "E9.2.27", "lines": ["When Pirooz Khosrow read Guraz’s scroll,", "He weighed that self-willed man’s intent and goal."]}, {"id": "E9.2.28", "lines": ["His heart grew dark; he pondered how to bring", "Destruction on that child of kings, his king."]}, {"id": "E9.2.29", "lines": ["The Shah would summon him from day to day,", "For he was learned and skilled in what to say."]}, {"id": "E9.2.30", "lines": ["As minister and treasurer, he held", "The Shah’s affairs, and in both posts excelled."]}, {"id": "E9.2.31", "lines": ["Then one dark night he climbed the royal stair", "And found bright wine and speech both smooth and fair."]}, {"id": "E9.2.32", "lines": ["Ardeshir sat within his royal hall,", "Attended by a few, and that was all."]}, {"id": "E9.2.33", "lines": ["When Pirooz Khosrow came before the throne,", "It seemed his head beyond the heavens shone."]}, {"id": "E9.2.34", "lines": ["He called for music; all the palace rang", "With instruments and songs the minstrels sang."]}, {"id": "E9.2.35", "lines": ["At midnight, Pirooz drank a man of wine;", "The guests were drunk, their senses in decline."]}, {"id": "E9.2.36", "lines": ["He drove the bards and counselors away;", "He would allow no other men to stay."]}, {"id": "E9.2.37", "lines": ["He and the Shah remained alone inside;", "Then outrage rose where royal trust had died."]}, {"id": "E9.2.38", "lines": ["He clamped the royal mouth, cut off his breath,", "And held that tender throat in silent death."]}, {"id": "E9.2.39", "lines": ["Thus Ardeshir six months of kingship filled;", "By Pirooz’s treachery the Shah was killed."]}, {"id": "E9.3.1", "lines": ["The palace filled with swords and arrows then;", "Pirooz Khosrow was joined by all those men."]}, {"id": "E9.3.2", "lines": ["Both heroes and new seekers after fame", "And power gave their aid to serve his aim."]}, {"id": "E9.3.3", "lines": ["Pirooz Khosrow sent a lengthy scroll;", "A camel courier bore it to its goal."]}, {"id": "E9.3.4", "lines": ["It went to Guraz; when the envoy came,", "His somber soul grew bright as solar flame."]}, {"id": "E9.3.5", "lines": ["From those parts he led forth such armed array", "That ant and gnat alike could find no way."]}, {"id": "E9.3.6", "lines": ["Like wind toward Tisfoon he drove his train;", "His soldiers’ hands were dark with blood and stain."]}, {"id": "E9.3.7", "lines": ["No soldier dared to speak, but bowed instead;", "Most people in that city dwelt in dread."]}, {"id": "E9.3.8", "lines": ["He set the Kayanian crown upon his head;", "Whatever crossed his mind, Farayin said:"]}, {"id": "E9.3.9", "lines": ["“Let me be king awhile, and take my seat", "Upon this throne, where joy and kingship meet."]}, {"id": "E9.3.10", "lines": ["Far better this than sixty years to spend", "In service, bowed by toils that never end."]}, {"id": "E9.3.11", "lines": ["When I am gone, my son shall take my place,", "And wear the crown with confidence and grace.”"]}, {"id": "E9.3.12", "lines": ["His elder son then spoke to him aside:", "“You wear the crown, and rule the country wide."]}, {"id": "E9.3.13", "lines": ["Do not feel safe; take thought for all your gold;", "Make firm the world you now are crowned to hold."]}, {"id": "E9.3.14", "lines": ["If any scion of the royal race", "Should come, you will not long remain in place.”"]}, {"id": "E9.3.15", "lines": ["The younger said, “You hold the royal crown,", "With troops and treasures, master of renown."]}, {"id": "E9.3.16", "lines": ["Yet one without a hoard must labor still;", "Treasure gives kingship force and royal will."]}, {"id": "E9.3.17", "lines": ["What forebear of Fereydoon, Abtin’s son,", "Had worn the crown before his own was won?"]}, {"id": "E9.3.18", "lines": ["He gave the world to three sons, blessed and bright,", "And found in justice all his heart’s delight."]}, {"id": "E9.3.19", "lines": ["With men and treasure keep your kingship’s might;", "No man is born possessing royal right.”"]}, {"id": "E9.3.20", "lines": ["The younger son’s advice pleased him the best;", "He told the elder, “Let such folly rest.”"]}, {"id": "E9.3.21", "lines": ["He set the royal muster in the halls,", "And summoned all the troops within the walls."]}, {"id": "E9.3.22", "lines": ["He scattered robes and gold in wanton sport,", "And squandered honors freely through the court."]}, {"id": "E9.3.23", "lines": ["Within two weeks, Shah Ardeshir’s whole store", "Held not one shaft’s feather’s worth anymore."]}, {"id": "E9.3.24", "lines": ["When Guraz sought the garden for his wine,", "He brought but amber candles there to shine."]}, {"id": "E9.3.25", "lines": ["Eighty before him, eighty in the rear;", "His helpers followed close, all gathered near."]}, {"id": "E9.3.26", "lines": ["His basins shone in silver or in gold;", "The gold was gem-inlaid, a joy to behold."]}, {"id": "E9.3.27", "lines": ["He feasted through the watches of the night.", "The nobles’ hearts were dark with hate and spite."]}, {"id": "E9.3.28", "lines": ["By night, in drunken pride, his steps were bent", "Through gardens; to the riding-ground he went."]}, {"id": "E9.3.29", "lines": ["In all Iran no friend remained to stay;", "The tide of Fortune turned the other way."]}, {"id": "E9.3.30", "lines": ["He lost all justice, wisdom, bounty, grace;", "An ignoble heart had taken honor’s place."]}, {"id": "E9.3.31", "lines": ["For gold he shut his eyes to wrong and right;", "For coins he would have sold the world outright."]}, {"id": "E9.3.32", "lines": ["He shed the blood of innocents at will,", "Then turned upon the troops in anger still."]}, {"id": "E9.3.33", "lines": ["The people cursed him; all desired his death,", "And met in secret, speaking under their breath."]}, {"id": "E9.3.34", "lines": ["Ormozd Shahran Guraz, a horseman bold,", "From Istakhr’s city, famed in deeds of old,"]}, {"id": "E9.3.35", "lines": ["The glory of the chieftains, spoke one night", "In secret to the men of Iran’s might:"]}, {"id": "E9.3.36", "lines": ["“O chiefs, Farayin’s tyranny grows severe;", "He scorns Iran’s great lords and feels no fear."]}, {"id": "E9.3.37", "lines": ["Why have your hearts grown narrow, courage small?", "Through him all eyes must weep, all hearts turn gall."]}, {"id": "E9.3.38", "lines": ["Is no physician to be found for pain?", "Must this disease of kingship still remain?"]}, {"id": "E9.3.39", "lines": ["No Kayanian, nor of Sasan’s race,", "Why serve him, girded, to your own disgrace?"]}, {"id": "E9.3.40", "lines": ["Either your hearts have fled out of your breasts,", "Or courage fails you in the hour that tests.”"]}, {"id": "E9.3.41", "lines": ["The troops replied, “Since none of worth was left,", "The throne of fitting rulers stood bereft."]}, {"id": "E9.3.42", "lines": ["None thinks to vie with him for royal fame,", "Or turn against this man of tainted name."]}, {"id": "E9.3.43", "lines": ["Tell us from all the stores of lore you know", "How we may bring this hot-brained Shah down low."]}, {"id": "E9.3.44", "lines": ["How shall Iran be freed from such a one,", "Whose thought and word and deed no good have done?"]}, {"id": "E9.3.45", "lines": ["May no good blessing reach him.” Then the chief", "Replied, “Iran has borne him long in grief."]}, {"id": "E9.3.46", "lines": ["If you will do me no harm, stand for right,", "And act as warriors, then by God’s might,"]}, {"id": "E9.3.47", "lines": ["I shall cast him from horseback to the dust.”", "They answered, “In your purpose we will trust."]}, {"id": "E9.3.48", "lines": ["May no harm touch you; all the troops today", "Stand as your shields and helpers in the fray."]}, {"id": "E9.3.49", "lines": ["If evil falls from this, we stand with you.”", "He heard and knew what valiant men could do."]}, {"id": "E9.3.50", "lines": ["Proud Ormozd sought the tyrant to overthrow,", "And strike for royal blood this mortal blow."]}, {"id": "E9.3.51", "lines": ["One day the monarch ordered forth the train,", "And rode out from the city to the plain."]}, {"id": "E9.3.52", "lines": ["He went to hunt, and with him rode a band", "Of Iranian lords and warriors of the land."]}, {"id": "E9.3.53", "lines": ["He spurred his steed, as though his head were flame,", "Like Azargashasp, famed by its fiery name."]}, {"id": "E9.3.54", "lines": ["The Pahlevans rode with him in the chase,", "And hunted, urging on their steeds apace."]}, {"id": "E9.3.55", "lines": ["When they turned back toward the city gate,", "Shahran Guraz resolved to seal his fate."]}, {"id": "E9.3.56", "lines": ["He chose a shaft from out his quiver’s store,", "Straight, steel-tipped, fit to drink a tyrant’s gore."]}, {"id": "E9.3.57", "lines": ["He spurred his black steed while the watching band", "Beheld the bow he carried in his hand."]}, {"id": "E9.3.58", "lines": ["He raised the bow to breast and head in play,", "And nocked a shaft as though in sport that day."]}, {"id": "E9.3.59", "lines": ["He drew until the point was hidden tight,", "Then loosed his thumb and let the shaft take flight."]}, {"id": "E9.3.60", "lines": ["The arrow struck the monarch in the back;", "His loosened fingers let the whip fall slack."]}, {"id": "E9.3.61", "lines": ["The shaft sank to its feathers, stained with red;", "Out through his navel thrust the iron head."]}, {"id": "E9.3.62", "lines": ["Headlong he fell; his blood began to flow", "In streams upon the trampled earth below."]}, {"id": "E9.3.63", "lines": ["He writhed upon the dust and groaned in pain,", "And gave a bitter sigh upon the plain."]}, {"id": "E9.3.64", "lines": ["The soldiers drew their swords; a cloud of dust", "Rose through the night as blade met savage thrust."]}, {"id": "E9.3.65", "lines": ["All night they plied their swords and blindly fought,", "Not knowing whom their swinging edges sought."]}, {"id": "E9.3.66", "lines": ["Each took from others in that darkened fight;", "Some earned a curse, and others praise that night."]}, {"id": "E9.3.67", "lines": ["Dawn’s yellow brocade spread; each mountain’s back", "Seemed like a leopard’s, mottled gold and black."]}, {"id": "E9.3.68", "lines": ["For fifty days alone his rule remained,", "Till blood and dust the usurper’s glory stained."]}, {"id": "E9.3.69", "lines": ["The mighty army scattered in dismay,", "Like sheep that see a wolf and flee away."]}, {"id": "E9.3.70", "lines": ["Long did they live without a king to reign;", "No claimant came the royal crown to gain."]}, {"id": "E9.3.71", "lines": ["They searched through every province for a son", "Of royal blood, but of that line was none."]}, {"id": "E9.4.1", "lines": ["Poorandokht was her name; when she ascended,", "To heal the realm her royal care extended."]}, {"id": "E9.4.2", "lines": ["They seated her upon the royal throne,", "And chiefs spread jewels where her glory shone."]}, {"id": "E9.4.3", "lines": ["She said, “I will not break this gathered band,", "Nor scatter those who now before me stand."]}, {"id": "E9.4.4", "lines": ["I will enrich the poor from royal store,", "That none need suffer hardship anymore."]}, {"id": "E9.4.5", "lines": ["May no one in this realm endure such pain;", "His grief is mine; beside him I remain."]}, {"id": "E9.4.6", "lines": ["From all our land, our foes shall be expelled;", "The customs of our kings shall be upheld.”"]}, {"id": "E9.4.7", "lines": ["She sought for Pirooz Khosrow; then there came", "A trusty man with tidings of that name."]}, {"id": "E9.4.8", "lines": ["She chose renowned men from the ranks that day;", "They brought Pirooz to hear what she would say."]}, {"id": "E9.4.9", "lines": ["She cried, “Foul-hearted villain, face your fate;", "Receive the dark reward your crimes create."]}, {"id": "E9.4.10", "lines": ["Now you shall pay for all the wrong you sow;", "I shall make a stream of blood from your neck flow.”"]}, {"id": "E9.4.11", "lines": ["She bade them lead a wild colt from its stall,", "That never yet had felt the saddle’s gall."]}, {"id": "E9.4.12", "lines": ["They bound him, firm as stone, upon its back,", "A noose about his neck that held no slack."]}, {"id": "E9.4.13", "lines": ["The untamed colt was led, with Pirooz bound,", "Into the open, on the riding-ground."]}, {"id": "E9.4.14", "lines": ["She sent some riders out across the course,", "Each with a kamand strapped upon his horse."]}, {"id": "E9.4.15", "lines": ["The wild steed plunged and reared in frantic flight,", "And dashed the traitor down in all men’s sight."]}, {"id": "E9.4.16", "lines": ["His skin was torn; the blood began to flow", "Out of his body, seeping soft and slow."]}, {"id": "E9.4.17", "lines": ["Pirooz at last surrendered breath in pain,", "And died in shame upon that dreadful plain."]}, {"id": "E9.4.18", "lines": ["Why should the wrongdoer seek justice then?", "The harm he dealt returns to him again."]}, {"id": "E9.4.19", "lines": ["Poorandokht ruled the world with gentle hand;", "No harsh wind lifted dust across the land."]}, {"id": "E9.4.20", "lines": ["But when six months had run their measured course,", "Her life’s revolving circle lost its force."]}, {"id": "E9.4.21", "lines": ["She died, a week of sickness having known,", "And carried fair renown with her alone."]}, {"id": "E9.4.22", "lines": ["Such is the working of the turning sphere:", "All-powerful, while we are powerless here."]}, {"id": "E9.5.1", "lines": ["Another lady, Azarmidokht by name,", "Assumed the crown and rose to royal fame."]}, {"id": "E9.5.2", "lines": ["She sat upon the Kayanian throne,", "And made the world’s dominion all her own."]}, {"id": "E9.5.3", "lines": ["Her first words were: “O sages, veterans all,", "Who know the world’s affairs, how fortunes fall,"]}, {"id": "E9.5.4", "lines": ["We shall uphold the ancient law with pride,", "Till in the grave, on bricks, our heads abide."]}, {"id": "E9.5.5", "lines": ["To those who love me I shall be a stay,", "A lord who will sustain them, come what may."]}, {"id": "E9.5.6", "lines": ["But he who breaks my pledge forsakes the road", "Of wisdom and rejects the rightful code;"]}, {"id": "E9.5.7", "lines": ["I shall hang him, shamed, on the gallows high,", "Iranian, Arab, Roman; he shall die.”"]}, {"id": "E9.5.8", "lines": ["Four months she filled the throne in royal state;", "The fifth brought ruin through the turns of fate."]}, {"id": "E9.5.9", "lines": ["With her, the realm lost virtue’s shielding light;", "Her star was dimmed, eclipsed in fortune’s night."]}, {"id": "E9.5.10", "lines": ["She died; the throne was left without a king,", "To those who wished her ill, a welcome thing."]}, {"id": "E9.5.11", "lines": ["The turning sphere makes hatred plainly known", "Toward those it nurtured once and called its own."]}, {"id": "E9.6.1", "lines": ["From Jahram Farrokhzad they called to reign,", "And raised his seat above the royal plain."]}, {"id": "E9.6.2", "lines": ["There with a pious heart, he first was heard", "To praise his God, then spoke this royal word:"]}, {"id": "E9.6.3", "lines": ["“A son am I of kings of honored name;", "I seek the world’s repose: that is my aim."]}, {"id": "E9.6.4", "lines": ["While I am Shah, no mischief-maker’s hand", "Shall rise to honor anywhere in the land."]}, {"id": "E9.6.5", "lines": ["Who from the heart pursues the rightful way,", "And works no mischief, I shall love each day."]}, {"id": "E9.6.6", "lines": ["As my pure soul, I hold such people dear,", "And harm no guiltless man through wrath or fear.”"]}, {"id": "E9.6.7", "lines": ["The army blessed him: “May you long remain;", "May earth and time your presence still retain.”"]}, {"id": "E9.6.8", "lines": ["Yet when his throne had lasted one short moon,", "His head and Fortune fell to dust too soon."]}, {"id": "E9.6.9", "lines": ["He had a slave, a cypress in his height,", "Fair, vigorous, pleasing to the outward sight."]}, {"id": "E9.6.10", "lines": ["May turning Heaven never bring to birth", "Another Siyah Chashm upon this earth."]}, {"id": "E9.6.11", "lines": ["One day a serving maid came into view;", "Within his heart a love for her then grew."]}, {"id": "E9.6.12", "lines": ["He sent to say, “Meet me in such a place;", "Great gifts shall crown your life with jeweled grace."]}, {"id": "E9.6.13", "lines": ["I will adorn your crown with gems and gold.”", "She answered nothing, keeping silence cold."]}, {"id": "E9.6.14", "lines": ["She went and told the matter to the king;", "Farrokhzad burned at hearing such a thing."]}, {"id": "E9.6.15", "lines": ["His anger burned; his sorrow ran so deep", "That he could neither take his food nor sleep."]}, {"id": "E9.6.16", "lines": ["He fettered Siyah Chashm by both his feet,", "And cast him into prison’s harsh retreat."]}, {"id": "E9.6.17", "lines": ["When time had passed, the just Shah’s heart grew kind;", "The many pleas for mercy swayed his mind."]}, {"id": "E9.6.18", "lines": ["He freed the slave, who served him as of old,", "But now the love he once had felt ran cold."]}, {"id": "E9.6.19", "lines": ["The king enjoyed his little share of rest;", "Into his wine the slave his poison pressed."]}, {"id": "E9.6.20", "lines": ["The monarch drank, then withered day by day;", "For one full week in agony he lay."]}, {"id": "E9.6.21", "lines": ["The kingship neared its end in dark dismay,", "While eager foes appeared from every way."]}, {"id": "E9.6.22", "lines": ["Such are the ways of time that turns the sphere;", "Consider what your share may be while here."]}, {"id": "E9.6.23", "lines": ["Eat what you have; trust not tomorrow’s gain,", "For what today bestows may not remain."]}, {"id": "E9.6.24", "lines": ["It takes from you and gives to someone new;", "Another wears the crown once worn by you."]}, {"id": "E9.6.25", "lines": ["Enjoy your wealth, and give, and do not keep", "Your labor’s fruit for enemies to reap."]}, {"id": "E9.6.26", "lines": ["When once your day has passed, your hoarded gain", "Becomes no more than wind upon the plain."]}]}, {"id": "E10", "title": "Yazdegard", "summary": "14 sections · 845 couplets", "path": "/poem/e10/", "couplets": [{"id": "E10.1.1", "lines": ["When Farrokhzad had passed from crown and throne,", "Then Yazdegard received it as his own."]}, {"id": "E10.1.2", "lines": ["In Sapandarmad, on the day of Ard,", "The crown was set upon young Yazdegard."]}, {"id": "E10.1.3", "lines": ["What said that man, brave, eloquent, and wise,", "Yet weary of the world beneath the skies?"]}, {"id": "E10.1.4", "lines": ["“Would that my mother had not given birth,", "Nor Heaven turned above my life on earth."]}, {"id": "E10.1.5", "lines": ["Between two globes, in this constricted round,", "No course but silence can for me be found."]}, {"id": "E10.1.6", "lines": ["The days of greatness and the days of need", "Soon cease for all, whatever men may heed."]}, {"id": "E10.1.7", "lines": ["Time is not ours; look well and you will see;", "Contend not with it, small as you may be."]}, {"id": "E10.1.8", "lines": ["So spread the board, and drain the brimming cup;", "Let sorrow’s bitter speech be gathered up."]}, {"id": "E10.1.9", "lines": ["Though Heaven’s wheel should bear your royal weight,", "A brick will be your pillow soon or late."]}, {"id": "E10.1.10", "lines": ["Let not your heart be troubled overmuch,", "Nor trust high Heaven or its shifting touch."]}, {"id": "E10.1.11", "lines": ["With lion and with elephant it plays,", "Beyond all need, indifferent to their ways."]}, {"id": "E10.1.12", "lines": ["It will outlast you while the ages run;", "Be not puffed up by life beneath the sun."]}, {"id": "E10.1.13", "lines": ["You cannot better Fereydoon in fame,", "Nor equal Parviz with his throne and name."]}, {"id": "E10.1.14", "lines": ["Look deeply: see what seven spheres on high", "Did to young Yazdegard beneath the sky.”"]}, {"id": "E10.1.15", "lines": ["When Yazdegard upon the throne was placed,", "The crown of kings his youthful forehead graced."]}, {"id": "E10.1.16", "lines": ["He said, “From Shahryar my line descends,", "And to Anooshirvan its glory bends."]}, {"id": "E10.1.17", "lines": ["From sire to sire, the crown is mine to wear;", "The Sun and Virgo, Pisces, are my share."]}, {"id": "E10.1.18", "lines": ["I shall advance the great and do no wrong", "To lesser men who in my realm belong."]}, {"id": "E10.1.19", "lines": ["I shall seek greatness, wisdom, manly might,", "And war’s fierce ardor in the thick of fight."]}, {"id": "E10.1.20", "lines": ["For strength and Fortune stay with none at all,", "All treasure, kingship, crown, and throne must fall."]}, {"id": "E10.1.21", "lines": ["Fame will abide forever, not desire;", "Cast pleasure off, and raise your honor higher."]}, {"id": "E10.1.22", "lines": ["By fame a man shall live beyond his breath,", "Though his body lies in the dust of death.”"]}, {"id": "E10.1.23", "lines": ["The chiefs applauded him with one accord,", "And hailed him as the earth’s acknowledged lord."]}, {"id": "E10.1.24", "lines": ["For sixteen years his destined course was sped,", "While turning stars brought trials overhead."]}, {"id": "E10.1.25", "lines": ["He ruled in peace and justice through the land;", "All Iran gladly lived beneath his hand."]}, {"id": "E10.2.1", "lines": ["Umar sent Sa’ad Wakkas to the fray,", "With troops to fight the Shah in full array."]}, {"id": "E10.2.2", "lines": ["When Yazdegard heard what the foe had done,", "He gathered troops from every side as one."]}, {"id": "E10.2.3", "lines": ["Then Ormozd’s son received the full command;", "His name was Rostam, famed throughout the land."]}, {"id": "E10.2.4", "lines": ["A wary warrior, wise in high estate,", "He read the stars and weighed the strokes of fate."]}, {"id": "E10.2.5", "lines": ["The Mobad listened closely to his word,", "Attentive to the wisdom that he heard."]}, {"id": "E10.2.6", "lines": ["With battle-tested chiefs he took his stand;", "For thirty months he stalled in that wide land."]}, {"id": "E10.2.7", "lines": ["At Kadisiya they pursued the fight,", "But Rostam read the heavens’ altered light."]}, {"id": "E10.2.8", "lines": ["He said, “This war can bring no victory’s glow;", "The kings’ stream does not through this channel flow.”"]}, {"id": "E10.2.9", "lines": ["He took his astrolabe to read the day;", "Then held his head, foreseeing dark dismay."]}, {"id": "E10.2.10", "lines": ["That day’s dark omen spoke of grief and woe;", "He wrote his brother what the stars would show."]}, {"id": "E10.2.11", "lines": ["He praised the God who shapes both good and ill,", "Whose hand directs the turns of Fortune still."]}, {"id": "E10.2.12", "lines": ["“The searcher, watching Heaven wheel about,", "May find his searching heart beset by doubt."]}, {"id": "E10.2.13", "lines": ["I am the guiltiest man beneath the sky,", "For in the grip of Ahriman I lie."]}, {"id": "E10.2.14", "lines": ["This house is empty now of royal might;", "No time for triumph or for glory’s light."]}, {"id": "E10.2.15", "lines": ["From Heaven’s fourth height the Sun looks downward still,", "Foretelling that this war will bring us ill."]}, {"id": "E10.2.16", "lines": ["Both Mars and Venus threaten us with woe;", "No man escapes what Heaven’s signs foreshow."]}, {"id": "E10.2.17", "lines": ["Mercury stands with Saturn face to face;", "In Gemini has Mercury its place."]}, {"id": "E10.2.18", "lines": ["A mighty event approaches; in my breast", "My heart is tired of life and longs for rest."]}, {"id": "E10.2.19", "lines": ["I see what is to come, yet choose to seal", "My lips, and what is coming not reveal."]}, {"id": "E10.2.20", "lines": ["I wept for Iran’s people, grief on grief;", "And burned for Sasan’s House beyond relief."]}, {"id": "E10.2.21", "lines": ["Woe for the head, crown, justice, and the throne,", "For greatness, farr, and Fortune overthrown."]}, {"id": "E10.2.22", "lines": ["Hereafter Arabs bring defeat and shame;", "The stars turn hostile to Iran’s great name."]}, {"id": "E10.2.23", "lines": ["For four full centuries none of our race", "Will count for anything in any place."]}, {"id": "E10.2.24", "lines": ["An envoy came from them to speak his mind;", "In council, varied views were then outlined."]}, {"id": "E10.2.25", "lines": ["They said, ‘We will share with your Shah the land", "From Kadisiya to the river’s strand."]}, {"id": "E10.2.26", "lines": ["We will open a road to town for trade,", "Where purchases and sales can both be made."]}, {"id": "E10.2.27", "lines": ["We ask no more; we will bear tribute’s weight,", "Nor seek the warriors’ crowns or royal state."]}, {"id": "E10.2.28", "lines": ["We will obey the king of kings in all,", "And give him hostages at any call.’"]}, {"id": "E10.2.29", "lines": ["Such is their speech; their deeds have yet to show;", "But still the stars foretell our people’s woe."]}, {"id": "E10.2.30", "lines": ["Long will the strife be; lions fierce and bold", "Will fall, a hundred at a time, struck cold."]}, {"id": "E10.2.31", "lines": ["The chiefs who share my battle all reject", "The terms our foes would have our side respect."]}, {"id": "E10.2.32", "lines": ["Miruy Tabari and Armani fight", "The creed of Ahriman with all their might."]}, {"id": "E10.2.33", "lines": ["Golbuy Suri and all these noble bands", "Bear clubs and heavy gorzes in their hands."]}, {"id": "E10.2.34", "lines": ["They heed no offer from our foes, but cry,", "‘Who are these haughty men beneath the sky?"]}, {"id": "E10.2.35", "lines": ["What seek they here in Iran’s fields and ways,", "And in Mazandaran through troubled days?"]}, {"id": "E10.2.36", "lines": ["For land and road, whatever good or ill,", "The gorz and sword must take them by our will."]}, {"id": "E10.2.37", "lines": ["We will exert ourselves with manly might,", "And make their world grow cramped and dark as night.’"]}, {"id": "E10.2.38", "lines": ["None knows the turning Heaven’s secret thought,", "Or how its face against our line is brought."]}, {"id": "E10.2.39", "lines": ["When you have read, let reason be your guide;", "Arrange your plans with nobles at your side."]}, {"id": "E10.2.40", "lines": ["Collect your wealth, attendants, clothes, and steeds;", "Make ready all that such a journey needs."]}, {"id": "E10.2.41", "lines": ["To Azar Abadagan take your way,", "Where mighty, freeborn men have made their stay."]}, {"id": "E10.2.42", "lines": ["Whatever herds of horses you command,", "Send to Azargashasp’s treasurer’s hand."]}, {"id": "E10.2.43", "lines": ["If troops from Zabul or Iran seek aid,", "Protect them; lodge them safely in your shade."]}, {"id": "E10.2.44", "lines": ["Receive and clothe them; show them love and grace,", "Considering Heaven’s altered, hostile face."]}, {"id": "E10.2.45", "lines": ["For it brings joy and terror to us all,", "It raises some and makes the others fall."]}, {"id": "E10.2.46", "lines": ["Tell mother all: her eyes will not behold", "The face they rested on in days of old."]}, {"id": "E10.2.47", "lines": ["Greet her from me, and counsel her at length", "Not to be troubled past her inward strength."]}, {"id": "E10.2.48", "lines": ["If any bring ill news of me one day,", "Let not excessive grief bear you away."]}, {"id": "E10.2.49", "lines": ["Within this passing world, a man may strain", "To gather treasure through his toil and pain."]}, {"id": "E10.2.50", "lines": ["But when his time to leave this world is due,", "Another tastes the fruits his labor grew."]}, {"id": "E10.2.51", "lines": ["At every hour worship God; depart", "From love of worldly dust within your heart."]}, {"id": "E10.2.52", "lines": ["Our Fortune now is narrowed; nevermore", "Will Yazdegard behold me at his door."]}, {"id": "E10.2.53", "lines": ["You and our household, all of you, unite", "In prayer and praise to God through darkest night."]}, {"id": "E10.2.54", "lines": ["Strive, and be generous; let no food stay", "Held for tomorrow from your meal today."]}, {"id": "E10.2.55", "lines": ["With this my army I endure the fight,", "Through grief and hardship born of Fortune’s spite."]}, {"id": "E10.2.56", "lines": ["I see no hope of rescue from this ill;", "May this sweet land of Iran prosper still."]}, {"id": "E10.2.57", "lines": ["When life grows narrow for the king, hold slight", "Your treasure, body, life in such a plight."]}, {"id": "E10.2.58", "lines": ["Of that great race, so honored and renowned,", "Only that exalted Shah remains yet crowned."]}, {"id": "E10.2.59", "lines": ["Be not remiss in toil; the Shah is all", "We have to look to if our fortunes fall."]}, {"id": "E10.2.60", "lines": ["He is the House of Sasan’s final trace;", "No eye will see another of that race."]}, {"id": "E10.2.61", "lines": ["Woe for the head, crown, seal, and justice lost;", "The royal throne will to the winds be tossed."]}, {"id": "E10.2.62", "lines": ["Farewell; be free from harm, but ever stand", "Before the Shah with loyal heart and hand."]}, {"id": "E10.2.63", "lines": ["If evil touches him, stand in the fight;", "Give up your head beneath the sword’s sharp might."]}, {"id": "E10.2.64", "lines": ["When pulpits stand as equals to the throne,", "And Abu Bakr and Umar’s names are known,"]}, {"id": "E10.2.65", "lines": ["Our long toils will be lost beneath the skies,", "And long the fall will be before the rise."]}, {"id": "E10.2.66", "lines": ["You will not see the throne, the crown, the state;", "The stars give Arabs all by force of fate."]}, {"id": "E10.2.67", "lines": ["As day succeeds to day, the years will bring", "A man of no desert to reign as king."]}, {"id": "E10.2.68", "lines": ["In somber black shall many walk arrayed,", "With tall felt caps and garments of brocade."]}, {"id": "E10.2.69", "lines": ["No throne, no golden boot, no crown will stay,", "No gems, no coronets, no flags’ display."]}, {"id": "E10.2.70", "lines": ["One man will labor; one enjoy the spoil;", "None will heed justice, bounty, right, or toil."]}, {"id": "E10.2.71", "lines": ["They will abandon truth and oaths, and prize", "Deceit and faults as virtues in their eyes."]}, {"id": "E10.2.72", "lines": ["The fighting man on foot must make his way;", "The mounted man will boast and have his say."]}, {"id": "E10.2.73", "lines": ["The peasant warrior will lose his skill;", "High birth and worth will count for little still."]}, {"id": "E10.2.74", "lines": ["Men will rob one another, and not earn;", "No one a curse from blessing will discern."]}, {"id": "E10.2.75", "lines": ["The hidden will be worse than what is known;", "Their king will bear a heart as hard as stone."]}, {"id": "E10.2.76", "lines": ["The father will become his own son’s foe,", "And son will plot his father’s overthrow."]}, {"id": "E10.2.77", "lines": ["A worthless slave will wear the crown one day;", "High birth and majesty will pass away."]}, {"id": "E10.2.78", "lines": ["No loyalty in heart or speech will stay;", "Both soul and words alike will go astray."]}, {"id": "E10.2.79", "lines": ["Then Turk and Arab mix with Iran’s seed,", "And from that mingling comes a different breed:"]}, {"id": "E10.2.80", "lines": ["Not dehqan, Turk, or Arab in those days;", "Their words will be like games that someone plays."]}, {"id": "E10.2.81", "lines": ["They will hide treasures in their garments’ fold,", "Then die; their foes will take their labors’ gold."]}, {"id": "E10.2.82", "lines": ["They will claim scholar’s and ascetic’s name,", "And use it to pursue their private aim."]}, {"id": "E10.2.83", "lines": ["Grief, toil, and bitterness will then prevail,", "As joy once graced Bahram Goor’s feast and tale."]}, {"id": "E10.2.84", "lines": ["No feast or joy, no striving or desire;", "Their schemes and traps are all that they require."]}, {"id": "E10.2.85", "lines": ["For silver, father hates his son; they wear", "Coarse wool, with curds their only daily fare."]}, {"id": "E10.2.86", "lines": ["They make their profit from another’s loss,", "And veil their greed beneath Faith’s gilded gloss."]}, {"id": "E10.2.87", "lines": ["No difference will remain in spring or snow;", "No wine at feasts will let the goblets glow."]}, {"id": "E10.2.88", "lines": ["When long this bitter age has had its way,", "None will regard the freeborn of that day."]}, {"id": "E10.2.89", "lines": ["They will shed blood for wealth they hope to gain;", "The great will see their days of power wane."]}, {"id": "E10.2.90", "lines": ["My heart is full of blood, my lips are blue;", "My mouth is dry, my face has yellowed too."]}, {"id": "E10.2.91", "lines": ["I, Pahlevan, must watch this darkened day;", "The Sasanian Fortune fades away."]}, {"id": "E10.2.92", "lines": ["So faithless has revolving Heaven become,", "That it withdraws its love and leaves us numb."]}, {"id": "E10.2.93", "lines": ["My iron-piercing arrows strike in vain", "On men who wear no jowshan and no chain."]}, {"id": "E10.2.94", "lines": ["My sword, which struck the lion’s neck before,", "And elephant’s, cuts Arab skin no more."]}, {"id": "E10.2.95", "lines": ["My knowledge brings me only loss and pain;", "I wish no thought of good or ill could reign."]}, {"id": "E10.2.96", "lines": ["The chiefs with me at Kadisiya stand,", "Hardy and hostile to the Arab band."]}, {"id": "E10.2.97", "lines": ["They think this field will fill with Arab blood,", "And earth will run like Jihun in a flood."]}, {"id": "E10.2.98", "lines": ["None knows the sky’s deep secret; none can see", "How long and bitter all this strife will be."]}, {"id": "E10.2.99", "lines": ["When Fortune leaves a race, what profit flows", "From toil and battle, ranks and weaponed rows?"]}, {"id": "E10.2.100", "lines": ["Prosper, my brother; may your care impart", "New gladness to the Shah of Iran’s heart."]}, {"id": "E10.2.101", "lines": ["This Kadisiya is my grave; I know", "My armor is the shroud wherein I go."]}, {"id": "E10.2.102", "lines": ["My blood will be my headgear. Heaven’s ways", "Are secret; let no grief consume your days."]}, {"id": "E10.2.103", "lines": ["Keep both your eyes upon the Shah, and yield", "Your very life for him upon the field."]}, {"id": "E10.2.104", "lines": ["For soon the day of Ahriman will rise,", "As hostile Heaven turns above our eyes.”"]}, {"id": "E10.3.1", "lines": ["He sealed his letter, blessed the runner’s way,", "And charged him with the words that he should say:"]}, {"id": "E10.3.2", "lines": ["“Take this to my own brother; let him hear", "What else is fitting, making matters clear.”"]}, {"id": "E10.3.3", "lines": ["He sent a runner, like the thunder’s might", "And lightning, straight to Sa’ad in rapid flight."]}, {"id": "E10.3.4", "lines": ["Upon white silk a scribe set down each line,", "A letter bright as sunlight’s splendid shine:"]}, {"id": "E10.3.5", "lines": ["“From Rostam, Ormozd’s son, who wishes well,", "The world’s great Pahlevan, these words I tell."]}, {"id": "E10.3.6", "lines": ["To Sa’ad Wakkas, who would seek a fight,", "And make his world grow narrow, void of light."]}, {"id": "E10.3.7", "lines": ["We still must fear Yazdan who made the sky,", "The Holy One whose turning heavens fly,"]}, {"id": "E10.3.8", "lines": ["Whose rule is justice, whose dominion love,", "Who holds the wheeling firmament above."]}, {"id": "E10.3.9", "lines": ["From Him, may blessings on our king descend,", "Whom crown and throne and royal ring commend;"]}, {"id": "E10.3.10", "lines": ["The lord of sword, of diadem, and rein,", "Whose farr keeps Ahriman bound fast in chain."]}, {"id": "E10.3.11", "lines": ["A hateful matter darkens all our way,", "This needless toil, this strife, this evil day."]}, {"id": "E10.3.12", "lines": ["Reply to me: what king do you obey?", "What customs, then, do all your troops display?"]}, {"id": "E10.3.13", "lines": ["You naked chief, with all your soldiers bare,", "Whose rank and power do you hope to share?"]}, {"id": "E10.3.14", "lines": ["On coarse, dry bread and water you remain;", "No steeds, no elephants, no baggage train."]}, {"id": "E10.3.15", "lines": ["Let life in Iran be enough for you;", "The crown and ring are someone else’s due."]}, {"id": "E10.3.16", "lines": ["He has the farr, the elephants, the gold,", "A Shah from kings renowned in days of old."]}, {"id": "E10.3.17", "lines": ["No king on earth can match his stature’s grace,", "No moon in Heaven rival his fair face."]}, {"id": "E10.3.18", "lines": ["At feasts, he parts his lips in smiles of light;", "His teeth gleam silver, shining clear and bright."]}, {"id": "E10.3.19", "lines": ["His gifts could buy the Arabs all outright,", "And still not dim the treasures in his sight."]}, {"id": "E10.3.20", "lines": ["Twelve thousand dogs and hawks and cheetahs, decked", "With bells and gold, wear earrings jewel-flecked."]}, {"id": "E10.3.21", "lines": ["In one whole year, the spearmen’s plain could find", "Not food enough to feed these beasts combined."]}, {"id": "E10.3.22", "lines": ["The hounds and cheetahs, hunting, eat still more;", "He counts the cost as nothing from his store."]}, {"id": "E10.3.23", "lines": ["No shame within your eyes has found a place;", "No reason, love, or reverence lends you grace."]}, {"id": "E10.3.24", "lines": ["With such a face, such birth, such traits and ways,", "Do you desire Iran’s throne in these days?"]}, {"id": "E10.3.25", "lines": ["If power within your measure is your aim,", "And these are not mere words of empty claim,"]}, {"id": "E10.3.26", "lines": ["Then send to us a man of noble speech,", "A wise, brave man whose words have force and reach,"]}, {"id": "E10.3.27", "lines": ["That he may tell your purpose, and declare", "Who led you to the Kayanian chair."]}, {"id": "E10.3.28", "lines": ["Then I will send a rider to the throne;", "Ask what you wish, and make your wishes known."]}, {"id": "E10.3.29", "lines": ["But do not choose so great a king to fight;", "Its end will bring you sorrow, not delight."]}, {"id": "E10.3.30", "lines": ["Anooshirvan’s just rule made old men young;", "From that great king this sovereign’s line has sprung."]}, {"id": "E10.3.31", "lines": ["His fathers all were Shahs; he too is crowned;", "No age recalls his peer the world around."]}, {"id": "E10.3.32", "lines": ["Do not fill earth with curses on your head;", "Hold to your faith and custom’s path instead."]}, {"id": "E10.3.33", "lines": ["No just and cultured man would seek the throne", "Without Kayanian blood to call his own."]}, {"id": "E10.3.34", "lines": ["Take counsel from this letter, clear and stern,", "And let your eyes and ears to wisdom turn.”"]}, {"id": "E10.3.35", "lines": ["The sealed words went to Pirooz Shapur then,", "A high-born lord among Iran’s great men."]}, {"id": "E10.3.36", "lines": ["To Sa’ad, son of Wakkas, then he rode,", "With Iranian nobles on the road."]}, {"id": "E10.3.37", "lines": ["Their souls were bright; their armor shone with gold,", "And silver gleamed upon each warrior bold."]}, {"id": "E10.3.38", "lines": ["With golden belts and splendor for the field,", "They came, each with a bright and golden shield."]}, {"id": "E10.3.39", "lines": ["When Sa’ad heard, he came to meet the band,", "With troops like dust advancing through the land."]}, {"id": "E10.3.40", "lines": ["They lodged the envoy; Sa’ad asked him then", "About his welfare and the fighting men."]}, {"id": "E10.3.41", "lines": ["He asked of Shah and chief, of troop positions,", "The watchful lord, his lands and their conditions."]}, {"id": "E10.3.42", "lines": ["He spread his cloak for Pirooz, then he said:", "“With sword and spear as mates, our lives are led."]}, {"id": "E10.3.43", "lines": ["Brave men do not discuss brocade or gold,", "Nor silver, feasts, or sleep when hearts are bold.”"]}, {"id": "E10.3.44", "lines": ["Then Pirooz placed the letter in his hand,", "And spoke the words that Rostam for him planned."]}, {"id": "E10.3.45", "lines": ["Sa’ad heard, read, and marveled at its tone;", "In Arabic, both good and ill were shown."]}, {"id": "E10.3.46", "lines": ["He spoke of jinn and men, and what was told", "By that Hashimite Prophet, firm and bold;"]}, {"id": "E10.3.47", "lines": ["Of God’s pure Oneness, of the Koran’s word,", "Of promise, threat, and help from Heaven conferred;"]}, {"id": "E10.3.48", "lines": ["Of customs new, of pitch and searing fire,", "Of bitter cold, and bliss men might desire;"]}, {"id": "E10.3.49", "lines": ["Of Paradise, with streams of milk and wine,", "Of houris, camphor, gardens bright and fine;"]}, {"id": "E10.3.50", "lines": ["Of honey, bubbling springs, and Heaven’s trees,", "Of joy that moves through everlasting ease."]}, {"id": "E10.3.51", "lines": ["He wrote: “If this true Faith the Shah receives,", "He rules both worlds in joy, if he believes."]}, {"id": "E10.3.52", "lines": ["He keeps the crown, the earrings, and the throne,", "With lasting beauty as his royal own."]}, {"id": "E10.3.53", "lines": ["Mohammad pleads his pardon, stands between;", "His form is like distilled rosewater, clean."]}, {"id": "E10.3.54", "lines": ["With Paradise the prize your deeds may gain,", "Sow no more hatred in the beds of pain."]}, {"id": "E10.3.55", "lines": ["Yazdegard’s person and this spacious earth,", "Its gardens, riding grounds, and palace mirth,"]}, {"id": "E10.3.56", "lines": ["Its halls and thrones and feasts, I would not care", "To purchase for one single houri’s hair."]}, {"id": "E10.3.57", "lines": ["Within this mortal world your eyes are dazed", "By treasure, crowns, and ivory thrones upraised."]}, {"id": "E10.3.58", "lines": ["You trust your ivory throne and royal might,", "Your hawks and cheetahs, crown and signet bright."]}, {"id": "E10.3.59", "lines": ["This world is worth no draft of water cold;", "Why let your heart be pained by all you hold?"]}, {"id": "E10.3.60", "lines": ["Whoever comes against me in the fight", "Finds Hell, a narrow grave, no other sight."]}, {"id": "E10.3.61", "lines": ["Believe, and Paradise will be your stay;", "Consider now which course you choose today.”"]}, {"id": "E10.3.62", "lines": ["Sa’ad set on the sheet his seal in place,", "And praised Mohammad’s name with solemn grace."]}, {"id": "E10.3.63", "lines": ["Then Shobae Moghireh said, “Let me be sent", "To Rostam.” On that embassy he went."]}, {"id": "E10.3.64", "lines": ["An Iranian noble came along the way,", "And to the Pahlevan had this to say:"]}, {"id": "E10.3.65", "lines": ["“An aged envoy, weak of frame, is here,", "Without a horse or proper battle gear."]}, {"id": "E10.3.66", "lines": ["About his neck there hangs a slender blade;", "The tears within his shirt are plain displayed.”"]}, {"id": "E10.3.67", "lines": ["When Rostam heard, he had a rich tent made;", "Its walls were hung with costly silk brocade."]}, {"id": "E10.3.68", "lines": ["They spread a Chinese carpet shot with gold;", "Like ants and locusts swarmed the soldiers bold."]}, {"id": "E10.3.69", "lines": ["A golden seat was set above the throng;", "The army’s Pahlevan sat, waiting long."]}, {"id": "E10.3.70", "lines": ["Then sixty men of Iran held their place,", "Battlefield lions, men of iron grace,"]}, {"id": "E10.3.71", "lines": ["In gold boots, violet robes with gold worked through,", "With torques and earrings flashing bright to view."]}, {"id": "E10.3.72", "lines": ["The royal tent was dressed in bright array;", "Then Shobae Moghireh came along the way."]}, {"id": "E10.3.73", "lines": ["He would not tread upon the cloth outspread,", "But took the humble path of dust instead."]}, {"id": "E10.3.74", "lines": ["His scimitar he used just like a cane,", "Nor looked at lord or captain of the train."]}, {"id": "E10.3.75", "lines": ["He sat upon the dust and looked at none,", "Not even at their chief, Ormozd’s son."]}, {"id": "E10.3.76", "lines": ["Then Rostam said, “May joy attend your soul,", "And knowledge make your mortal body whole.”"]}, {"id": "E10.3.77", "lines": ["Shobae said, “Accept the Faith as true,", "And peace and safety shall belong to you.”"]}, {"id": "E10.3.78", "lines": ["When Rostam heard this speech, his brows grew grim;", "His face turned yellow as the words struck him."]}, {"id": "E10.3.79", "lines": ["He took the letter, gave it to be read,", "And answered all the words the reader said:"]}, {"id": "E10.3.80", "lines": ["“Say this to Sa’ad: you are no king by right,", "Nor one who should aspire to royal height."]}, {"id": "E10.3.81", "lines": ["My darkened Fortune to your eyes was shown;", "Your heart then longed to claim my royal throne."]}, {"id": "E10.3.82", "lines": ["The wise do not hold speech as something slight;", "In this affair you lack discerning sight."]}, {"id": "E10.3.83", "lines": ["If Sa’ad bore the crown of Sasan’s race,", "He would be easy, feast or fight, to face."]}, {"id": "E10.3.84", "lines": ["But stars are faithless; this is sorrow’s day:", "What can I say with Fortune gone astray?"]}, {"id": "E10.3.85", "lines": ["This crooked, hunchbacked heaven will be stern,", "And harsh toward us as still its circles turn."]}, {"id": "E10.3.86", "lines": ["Go back in cheer; no place for words is found", "Upon a day when battles rage around."]}, {"id": "E10.3.87", "lines": ["Tell him: to die with honor in the fight", "Is better than to live for foes’ delight.”"]}, {"id": "E10.4.1", "lines": ["Shobae Moghireh, swift as winds that blow,", "Returned to Sa’ad from the Iranian foe."]}, {"id": "E10.4.2", "lines": ["And Rostam called his forces to array.", "The horns rang out to send them to the fray."]}, {"id": "E10.4.3", "lines": ["Like surging seas the troops began to ride;", "Dust rose, and battle thundered far and wide."]}, {"id": "E10.4.4", "lines": ["The din could deafen even keenest ears,", "As troops advanced with lances, swords, and spears."]}, {"id": "E10.4.5", "lines": ["Shobae told Sa’ad with thunder’s might;", "Sa’ad bade all his troops prepare to fight."]}, {"id": "E10.4.6", "lines": ["The armies met, feet planted in the ground;", "Each held its place amid the battle’s sound."]}, {"id": "E10.4.7", "lines": ["Bright spearheads flashed through dust that veiled their sight,", "Like fiery stars that burn across the night."]}, {"id": "E10.4.8", "lines": ["The spears struck helms and failed beneath the strain;", "Three days the armies battled on the plain."]}, {"id": "E10.4.9", "lines": ["Then water grew scarce in the long-drawn fray;", "Their heavy armor on the warriors lay."]}, {"id": "E10.4.10", "lines": ["With burdened souls, the fighters lost their might;", "Thirst stopped both men and horses in the fight."]}, {"id": "E10.4.11", "lines": ["Rostam’s lips dried like dust upon the plain,", "His tongue was split with thirst and bitter pain."]}, {"id": "E10.4.12", "lines": ["Both men and horses fed on moistened clay,", "So hard the battle pressed them on that day."]}, {"id": "E10.4.13", "lines": ["Then Rostam looked across the field ahead,", "And saw the leaders of his army dead."]}, {"id": "E10.4.14", "lines": ["Then Sa’ad’s shout and Rostam’s roar were heard,", "And through the shaken field the armies stirred."]}, {"id": "E10.4.15", "lines": ["Each left his army’s center and withdrew,", "And from the crowded field apart they drew."]}, {"id": "E10.4.16", "lines": ["They reached the shadow of a rocky height,", "And there the chieftains joined in single fight."]}, {"id": "E10.4.17", "lines": ["There Rostam roared like thunder in the sky,", "And made his blade at Sa’ad’s charger fly."]}, {"id": "E10.4.18", "lines": ["He struck the charger’s head with such great force", "That Sa’ad fell, flung from his crashing horse."]}, {"id": "E10.4.19", "lines": ["Then Rostam raised his sharpened blade to show", "The day of Doom to his unhorsed foe."]}, {"id": "E10.4.20", "lines": ["He meant to strike off Sa’ad’s head, but then", "The dust obscured the sight of both the men."]}, {"id": "E10.4.21", "lines": ["Then Rostam left his charger’s saddle-seat,", "And stood beside his charger on his feet."]}, {"id": "E10.4.22", "lines": ["He bound the courser’s rein about his waist,", "While blinding desert dust his eyes embraced."]}, {"id": "E10.4.23", "lines": ["Then Sa’ad rushed to strike him in that place,", "And struck his helm; blood streamed across his face."]}, {"id": "E10.4.24", "lines": ["As blood obscured his sight, the Arab’s power", "Prevailed against him in that desperate hour."]}, {"id": "E10.4.25", "lines": ["His next blow struck the chest and neck instead,", "And cast the mighty Pahlevan down dead."]}, {"id": "E10.4.26", "lines": ["No man in either army knew the place", "Where dust had veiled the rivals face to face."]}, {"id": "E10.4.27", "lines": ["The army sought its chief on every side,", "And reached the field where he had fought and died."]}, {"id": "E10.4.28", "lines": ["They saw him from afar in dust and gore,", "And sword wounds, head to foot, his body bore."]}, {"id": "E10.4.29", "lines": ["They fled, and many chiefs were slain that day;", "From thirst, men died on horseback on the way."]}, {"id": "E10.4.30", "lines": ["The world’s allotted measure now was filled", "With kings; survivors saw the bodies stilled."]}, {"id": "E10.4.31", "lines": ["They hastened toward the Shah, and in their fright", "They rode without a pause in headlong flight."]}, {"id": "E10.4.32", "lines": ["At Baghdad Yazdegard was staying then;", "Around him gathered all the fleeing men."]}, {"id": "E10.4.33", "lines": ["From Arvand, Farrokhzad Ormozd now came,", "His eyes in tears, his heart with wrath aflame."]}, {"id": "E10.4.34", "lines": ["He entered Karkh and charged; no spearman’s shield", "Could bear his onslaught; all were forced to yield."]}, {"id": "E10.4.35", "lines": ["Then out of Baghdad marched the armed array,", "To seek upon the plain another fray."]}, {"id": "E10.5.1", "lines": ["Dust rose upon the plain above the men;", "Defeat befell Iran’s troops once again."]}, {"id": "E10.5.2", "lines": ["When Farrokhzad returned before the throne,", "His dust-stained jowshan and his grief were shown."]}, {"id": "E10.5.3", "lines": ["He left his horse and bowed with formal grace,", "With bloodshot eyes and anguish on his face."]}, {"id": "E10.5.4", "lines": ["He said to Yazdegard, “Why weep this way?", "Will tears preserve the crown from dark decay?"]}, {"id": "E10.5.5", "lines": ["You are the last of the Kayanian seed,", "Left fit to wear the crown in time of need."]}, {"id": "E10.5.6", "lines": ["A hundred thousand foes, and you but one;", "How can a war against such odds be won?"]}, {"id": "E10.5.7", "lines": ["Go now beneath Narvan’s protecting shade;", "There loyal men will gather to your aid."]}, {"id": "E10.5.8", "lines": ["Like Fereydoon, go forth from there and climb;", "You are still young; a new task waits its time.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.9", "lines": ["The king of kings gave ear to what was said;", "New counsels rose and moved within his head."]}, {"id": "E10.5.10", "lines": ["The next day, he sat on the royal throne,", "And wore the Kayanian crown that was his own."]}, {"id": "E10.5.11", "lines": ["He called the sages, nobles, those who knew", "The ancient lore, and shrewd Mobadan too."]}, {"id": "E10.5.12", "lines": ["He said, “What counsel seems most fitting here?", "What ancient precedents in thought appear?"]}, {"id": "E10.5.13", "lines": ["Farrokhzad tells me: ‘Leave this place and go;", "Take all your followers where Narvan’s trees grow."]}, {"id": "E10.5.14", "lines": ["The folk of Amol serve you, one and all;", "The men of Sari answer to your call."]}, {"id": "E10.5.15", "lines": ["And when your troops are gathered in your sight,", "Return with power to face the Arabs’ might.’"]}, {"id": "E10.5.16", "lines": ["You chosen chiefs, is this the course preferred?”", "“It is the way,” came their united word."]}, {"id": "E10.5.17", "lines": ["The king replied, “This course is not my way;", "Another purpose rules my heart today."]}, {"id": "E10.5.18", "lines": ["Shall I abandon Iran’s chiefs and land,", "Our troops, the crown and throne at our command?"]}, {"id": "E10.5.19", "lines": ["Shall I preserve my life and watch them fall?", "That is not greatness, manhood, sense at all."]}, {"id": "E10.5.20", "lines": ["To fight the foe is better than disgrace;", "No shame should stain the Sasanian face."]}, {"id": "E10.5.21", "lines": ["The leopard’s proverb warns us, clear and stern:", "When hardship comes, do not from battle turn."]}, {"id": "E10.5.22", "lines": ["As subjects owe obedience to their king,", "In good and ill, through every changing thing,"]}, {"id": "E10.5.23", "lines": ["So must a king not leave his realm in pain,", "And seek out treasure while his people strain.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.24", "lines": ["The great men blessed him: “Such a course displays", "The faithful kings’ accustomed, righteous ways."]}, {"id": "E10.5.25", "lines": ["Declare your will, your wishes, and your need;", "What pledge will you make with us for the deed?”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.26", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “These thoughts my heart impair;", "They leave it ruined by the weight of care."]}, {"id": "E10.5.27", "lines": ["Our better course is toward Khorasan’s ground,", "Where we may rest beyond the battle’s sound."]}, {"id": "E10.5.28", "lines": ["For there we have strong troops in great array,", "And valiant Pahlevans to guard the way."]}, {"id": "E10.5.29", "lines": ["The Turkish chiefs and Khan of Chin will raise", "Their voices when they come to offer praise."]}, {"id": "E10.5.30", "lines": ["I will make firmer still that bond secure", "By wedding Faghfoor’s daughter, bright and pure."]}, {"id": "E10.5.31", "lines": ["A mighty force will come to give us aid,", "Turanian lords with swords and ranks arrayed."]}, {"id": "E10.5.32", "lines": ["There Mahwi guards the frontier with his sword,", "With armed retainers and a golden hoard."]}, {"id": "E10.5.33", "lines": ["He served our shepherds, steward in their band,", "Raised by our field-wardens’ supporting hand."]}, {"id": "E10.5.34", "lines": ["I raised him for the words he knew to say,", "And for his eagerness to join the fray."]}, {"id": "E10.5.35", "lines": ["I raised him from obscurity to fame,", "And gave the worthless man a noble name."]}, {"id": "E10.5.36", "lines": ["I gave him border rule and men to guide,", "With lands and elephants that I supplied."]}, {"id": "E10.5.37", "lines": ["Though low in birth and standing he may be,", "He owes his rise within my court to me."]}, {"id": "E10.5.38", "lines": ["A Mobad made this ancient warning plain:", "‘Beware the man you hurt with needless pain;"]}, {"id": "E10.5.39", "lines": ["But trust the one your kindness raised on high,", "From nothing to the heights of Heaven’s sky.’"]}, {"id": "E10.5.40", "lines": ["I never wronged him, not in deed or thought;", "He will avenge me as his honor ought.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.41", "lines": ["But Farrokhzad struck both his hands and cried,", "“O God-fearing Shah, cast trust aside."]}, {"id": "E10.5.42", "lines": ["Be not too sure of men of evil grain;", "Another proverb makes this matter plain:"]}, {"id": "E10.5.43", "lines": ["Though spells and toil would change what God has made,", "No key unlocks the bond His hand has laid."]}, {"id": "E10.5.44", "lines": ["A base-born root yields poison in the end;", "On low-born upstarts let no king depend.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.45", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “O lion, fierce in fight,", "I lose nothing to learn if I am right.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.46", "lines": ["He stayed that night; and when the morning shone,", "The nobles left Baghdad with many a groan."]}, {"id": "E10.5.47", "lines": ["He set his face toward Khorasan’s plain,", "And counted little all the road and pain."]}, {"id": "E10.5.48", "lines": ["The chieftains of Iran, with sorrow bowed,", "Accompanied their Shah among the crowd."]}, {"id": "E10.5.49", "lines": ["They blessed him, saying, “May the earth and time", "Still know your royal presence in its prime.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.50", "lines": ["The army wailed with grief to see him go;", "Landholders, high-born men, came in their woe."]}, {"id": "E10.5.51", "lines": ["“If we should lose our Shah, how can the heart", "Find joy in home or country set apart?"]}, {"id": "E10.5.52", "lines": ["We leave our homes, our children, and our gold,", "To share your burdens on the road you hold."]}, {"id": "E10.5.53", "lines": ["Without your throne our lives are nothing worth;", "May Fortune never cast you from the earth."]}, {"id": "E10.5.54", "lines": ["We all will go and wait for Time to show", "What games it plays amid the battle’s flow.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.55", "lines": ["Then eloquent Iranians, face to ground,", "Spoke from the dust, with grief in every sound:"]}, {"id": "E10.5.56", "lines": ["“We left our thriving homes and thought to find", "The world beneath your shelter, safe and kind."]}, {"id": "E10.5.57", "lines": ["Now, broken-hearted, to the Khan we go;", "From Iran toward Turan, weighed down with woe.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.58", "lines": ["With tear-filled eyes, the Shah addressed the throng:", "“Praise God, and let His praise grow ever strong."]}, {"id": "E10.5.59", "lines": ["I may yet see you all again, and see", "The Arabs’ fury lessen by degree."]}, {"id": "E10.5.60", "lines": ["You nurtured me, my father’s gift of care;", "I would not have you in my hardship share."]}, {"id": "E10.5.61", "lines": ["Do not share my distress; let Heaven show", "To whom its favor now will turn and flow."]}, {"id": "E10.5.62", "lines": ["Resign yourselves to what its secrets weave;", "No man can flee the fate it will achieve.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.63", "lines": ["He told the merchants who had come from Chin:", "“Through Arabs, loss is all your trade will glean."]}, {"id": "E10.5.64", "lines": ["For now, within Iran you must not stay;", "Leave for a time, and take yourselves away.”"]}, {"id": "E10.5.65", "lines": ["They parted, wailing, each upon his way;", "Then Farrokhzad led on the armed array."]}, {"id": "E10.5.66", "lines": ["He bade Iran’s tried veterans depart;", "He led the troops; the Shah came sick at heart."]}, {"id": "E10.5.67", "lines": ["By stages came the Shah to Rey; he sought", "In wine and music ease from anxious thought."]}, {"id": "E10.5.68", "lines": ["From Rey to Gorgan, swift as wind, his way", "He took, and there, now sad, now glad, would stay."]}, {"id": "E10.5.69", "lines": ["From Gorgan toward the road to Bost he went,", "His face was lined, his heart with sorrow rent."]}, {"id": "E10.6.1", "lines": ["The Shah, intent on Marv, wrote his command,", "To Mahwi Suri, warden of that land."]}, {"id": "E10.6.2", "lines": ["In rage and grief, with hope and tearful eyes,", "He called a scribe, experienced and wise."]}, {"id": "E10.6.3", "lines": ["He poured his heart out, then gave God the praise,", "The all-wise Lord who fosters all our days,"]}, {"id": "E10.6.4", "lines": ["The Master of the circling Mars and sun,", "Who formed the ant and elephant, each one."]}, {"id": "E10.6.5", "lines": ["From nothing He made all by sovereign might,", "Unmatched in wisdom, self-sufficient light."]}, {"id": "E10.6.6", "lines": ["Then Yazdegard recounted each event:", "“Our kingship’s bloom has lost its hue and scent."]}, {"id": "E10.6.7", "lines": ["For Rostam died upon the battlefield,", "By Sa’ad’s hand, and sorrow will not yield."]}, {"id": "E10.6.8", "lines": ["Sa’ad, son of Wakkas, has no noble birth,", "No land, no learning, and no joy on earth."]}, {"id": "E10.6.9", "lines": ["At Tisfoon’s gate now his troops are spread;", "The meadowland and woodland lie ahead."]}, {"id": "E10.6.10", "lines": ["Prepare for battle with the force you lead;", "Unite your army in this single deed."]}, {"id": "E10.6.11", "lines": ["To you, brave lord, I urge my flying steed;", "Like wind I follow in this hour of need.”"]}, {"id": "E10.7.1", "lines": ["He chose another envoy from the band,", "A clear-eyed man with counsel at command."]}, {"id": "E10.7.2", "lines": ["He also wrote to Tus with grieving heart,", "His face grown pale beneath his sorrow’s dart."]}, {"id": "E10.7.3", "lines": ["He first gave praise to Him who judges all,", "Whose gifts of strength and skill and Fortune fall;"]}, {"id": "E10.7.4", "lines": ["From Him come farr and triumph, crown and throne;", "The royal diadem is all His own."]}, {"id": "E10.7.5", "lines": ["From gnat’s small foot to eagle’s claw and flight,", "From elephant to fierce nahang in might,"]}, {"id": "E10.7.6", "lines": ["All creatures serve His will from birth to death,", "And none may live unless He grants it breath."]}, {"id": "E10.7.7", "lines": ["“This comes from Iran’s mighty Yazdegard,", "Whose father was a king of high regard;"]}, {"id": "E10.7.8", "lines": ["Victorious lord of Iran’s armed command,", "Protector of its creatures and its land."]}, {"id": "E10.7.9", "lines": ["His God-fearing forefathers earned their name,", "And thanked the stars for crown and royal fame."]}, {"id": "E10.7.10", "lines": ["They made earth prosper, and their light was shown", "In signet, crown, and splendor of the throne."]}, {"id": "E10.7.11", "lines": ["To frontier lords in treasure, rank, and might,", "With farr and stature, just in deed and right;"]}, {"id": "E10.7.12", "lines": ["In Shamiran, in Ruyin Dezh, and all", "On Kalat’s crags and Rada, heed our call:"]}, {"id": "E10.7.13", "lines": ["May God, the great Sustainer, guard from harm", "Both us and you, secure from evil’s arm."]}, {"id": "E10.7.14", "lines": ["You chiefs have surely heard, for all men know,", "The honor that to noble men we show."]}, {"id": "E10.7.15", "lines": ["Our hearts are full of justice, love, and care,", "For men of birth and warriors everywhere."]}, {"id": "E10.7.16", "lines": ["We prize your noble house; its labors hold", "More worth to kings than any hoard of gold."]}, {"id": "E10.7.17", "lines": ["When Bahram Chubin broke the king’s command,", "And rose against the crown that ruled the land,"]}, {"id": "E10.7.18", "lines": ["You turned from spacious cities, parks, and halls,", "From gardens, grounds, and palaces’ high walls."]}, {"id": "E10.7.19", "lines": ["On meadows and high mountains, fearing harm,", "You built your homes beyond the world’s alarm."]}, {"id": "E10.7.20", "lines": ["If God Almighty grants me strength and grace,", "And Fortune turns once more toward our face,"]}, {"id": "E10.7.21", "lines": ["I shall reward your service from my purse,", "And praise your ready aid in lasting verse."]}, {"id": "E10.7.22", "lines": ["You must have heard what stars have made us bear,", "From snake-eaters with Ahriman’s dark stare."]}, {"id": "E10.7.23", "lines": ["They lack all knowledge, shame, descent, and fame,", "And hold no throne or treasure in their name."]}, {"id": "E10.7.24", "lines": ["They seek to give the world to winds of dread;", "Treasure lies scattered; dust conceals the dead."]}, {"id": "E10.7.25", "lines": ["It is the turning of the lofty sky", "That brings our kingship harm from realms on high."]}, {"id": "E10.7.26", "lines": ["These crow-like men, devoid of grace and fame,", "Have neither sense nor knowledge, honor, shame."]}, {"id": "E10.7.27", "lines": ["Anooshirvan dreamed that this bright throne", "Would lose the lustrous glory it had known."]}, {"id": "E10.7.28", "lines": ["He saw a hundred thousand Arabs pour", "Like camels, wild, whose halters held no more."]}, {"id": "E10.7.29", "lines": ["They crossed the Arvand; smoke arose on high,", "And climbed to Saturn in the darkened sky."]}, {"id": "E10.7.30", "lines": ["In Iran and in Babylon, no seed", "Was sown, no harvest gathered for their need."]}, {"id": "E10.7.31", "lines": ["They left no fabric of the land behind;", "No trace of what had been for men to find."]}, {"id": "E10.7.32", "lines": ["The Fire within its temple lost its light;", "Nowruz and Sadeh darkened into night."]}, {"id": "E10.7.33", "lines": ["The battlements above the royal hall", "Would tumble to its courtyard in their fall."]}, {"id": "E10.7.34", "lines": ["That dream is now fulfilled before our eyes,", "And Heaven’s favor turns from us and flies."]}, {"id": "E10.7.35", "lines": ["All those we honor most will suffer scorn;", "The base will rise where noble men were born."]}, {"id": "E10.7.36", "lines": ["Ill will be scattered, good concealed from sight,", "And harm will show itself in open light."]}, {"id": "E10.7.37", "lines": ["In every land a tyrant will appear,", "An ugly scourge to fill its folk with fear."]}, {"id": "E10.7.38", "lines": ["The signs of darkest night already show;", "The heavens soon will darken all below."]}, {"id": "E10.7.39", "lines": ["Our counselors and Pahlevans agree;", "Their prudent minds have shown this course to me."]}, {"id": "E10.7.40", "lines": ["We turn our faces toward Khorasan’s side,", "To frontier lords, crown-seekers, eager-eyed."]}, {"id": "E10.7.41", "lines": ["We wait to see what turning time will say", "To this uncertain course we take today."]}, {"id": "E10.7.42", "lines": ["To Tus’s warden now we make our way,", "With drums and elephants in proud array."]}, {"id": "E10.7.43", "lines": ["And Farrokhzad and I are of one skin;", "He is my friend and bound to me as kin."]}, {"id": "E10.7.44", "lines": ["At Altuniya now he seeks the fight,", "And turns to meet the foe with all his might."]}, {"id": "E10.7.45", "lines": ["And Kashmihan, that faithful friend’s own son,", "Has come to court to say what must be done."]}, {"id": "E10.7.46", "lines": ["He spoke of fitness, service, and our need;", "I heard his words and gave them careful heed."]}, {"id": "E10.7.47", "lines": ["I heard from him the secrets of each height,", "The depths and caves that lie concealed from sight;"]}, {"id": "E10.7.48", "lines": ["He showed what lay within his heart to view,", "And gave us counsel drawn from what he knew."]}, {"id": "E10.7.49", "lines": ["From here we sent out men on every side,", "To friends whose aid might help us stem the tide."]}, {"id": "E10.7.50", "lines": ["My battle force is far too vast to stay", "Within these narrow holds from day to day."]}, {"id": "E10.7.51", "lines": ["He named Gombadan Fort and heights that lay", "Toward Kharmana along the mountain way;"]}, {"id": "E10.7.52", "lines": ["And Lazhawardin, too, he judged as fit", "To hold the stores we would entrust to it."]}, {"id": "E10.7.53", "lines": ["We held a council of our chiefs, and weighed", "Our loss against our hope, in balance laid."]}, {"id": "E10.7.54", "lines": ["We then resolved to store the crown and throne,", "The seal and signet, all that is our own;"]}, {"id": "E10.7.55", "lines": ["All garments brought from Kashmir, Chin, and Rum,", "With Rum’s and Taif’s rich goods from every loom;"]}, {"id": "E10.7.56", "lines": ["All that remains of what we have in hand,", "The clothes and carpets drawn from every land;"]}, {"id": "E10.7.57", "lines": ["Gold goods and cloth, uncut, in forts shall stay,", "With all too cumbersome to bear away;"]}, {"id": "E10.7.58", "lines": ["Provisions, too, and all the gear we need", "To serve our wants and help our plans succeed."]}, {"id": "E10.7.59", "lines": ["Some forty thousand oxen draw the train", "Of wagons bearing rice, our needed grain."]}, {"id": "E10.7.60", "lines": ["Twelve thousand ass-loads next of wheat shall go,", "Still in the ear, among the stores we stow."]}, {"id": "E10.7.61", "lines": ["A trusty Mobad brings supplies we need:", "Pistachios, millet, pomegranate seed."]}, {"id": "E10.7.62", "lines": ["Two thousand camel-loads of each we ask,", "With Bactrian camels laden for the task."]}, {"id": "E10.7.63", "lines": ["A thousand ox-cart loads of salt they send,", "To meet whatever course the stars intend."]}, {"id": "E10.7.64", "lines": ["Of dates a thousand loads, of sugar too", "A thousand, weighed and counted, all are due."]}, {"id": "E10.7.65", "lines": ["Twelve thousand honey vessels, too, shall go", "Into the forts, as stores we there bestow."]}, {"id": "E10.7.66", "lines": ["Of salted meats, some forty thousand more", "Our steward gathers for the fortress store."]}, {"id": "E10.7.67", "lines": ["Within two months, three hundred camel-loads", "Of naphtha, black, shall come beneath the goads."]}, {"id": "E10.7.68", "lines": ["From Shamiran and Rada’s heights, a band", "Will go with one Mobad, as we have planned,"]}, {"id": "E10.7.69", "lines": ["To meet the elders, learned men of state,", "And frontier lords held eminent and great."]}, {"id": "E10.7.70", "lines": ["Let written lists record the fortress store;", "Account for all the goods that pass its door."]}, {"id": "E10.7.71", "lines": ["Give one account to him who guards our gold;", "The other let the gathered nobles hold."]}, {"id": "E10.7.72", "lines": ["On lofty mountains and the meadow ground,", "No harm from Turk or Arab shall be found."]}, {"id": "E10.7.73", "lines": ["Your help in these hard times will aid us much;", "These toils require every loyal touch."]}, {"id": "E10.7.74", "lines": ["Our minister, both skilled and wise in speech,", "Will charge our treasurer to give to each"]}, {"id": "E10.7.75", "lines": ["Who labors for these stores at our behest", "Five Persian robes, in which he shall be dressed."]}, {"id": "E10.7.76", "lines": ["When toil is done, our treasure shall endow", "Each with a gold-wrought headband for his brow."]}, {"id": "E10.7.77", "lines": ["In these dark times, let forty coins be paid", "In silver from the treasure for their aid."]}, {"id": "E10.7.78", "lines": ["One face bears God’s pure name, whom we revere,", "The source of all our hope and all our fear."]}, {"id": "E10.7.79", "lines": ["The other shows our face and royal crown;", "Our favor makes earth fruitful with renown."]}, {"id": "E10.7.80", "lines": ["At Nowruz and at Mehr, in bright array,", "Two mighty feasts their wealth and pomp display."]}, {"id": "E10.7.81", "lines": ["May all the world bless those whose hearts are kind,", "Who keep our royal diadem in mind.”"]}, {"id": "E10.7.82", "lines": ["The Shah then sealed the letter with his hand,", "And sent it to the chiefs of his armed band."]}, {"id": "E10.8.1", "lines": ["A rider came, with royal words in hand,", "High-fortuned, seeking fame throughout the land."]}, {"id": "E10.8.2", "lines": ["The tabiras thundered down the royal road;", "Through Nishapur to Tus the army flowed."]}, {"id": "E10.8.3", "lines": ["Then Mahwi Suri heard, and came with might", "To meet the Shah, with spears and armor bright."]}, {"id": "E10.8.4", "lines": ["When royal Glory’s banner came in sight,", "With all the king’s great chiefs to left and right,"]}, {"id": "E10.8.5", "lines": ["He swiftly left the saddle and his steed,", "And bowed before the Shah with reverent heed."]}, {"id": "E10.8.6", "lines": ["Across the burning dust he softly passed,", "While tears of reverence fell thick and fast."]}, {"id": "E10.8.7", "lines": ["He kissed the ground and long before him stayed;", "His army bowed, and all their homage paid."]}, {"id": "E10.8.8", "lines": ["They hailed the Shah and lowered every head,", "And Farrokhzad his ranks before him spread."]}, {"id": "E10.8.9", "lines": ["With heart made glad, he met him face to face,", "Then counseled him at length within that place."]}, {"id": "E10.8.10", "lines": ["He spoke his heart: “This Shah of Kayanian name", "I place with you to guard his crown and fame."]}, {"id": "E10.8.11", "lines": ["Let not a breath of harm upon him fall,", "Nor make him owe you gratitude at all."]}, {"id": "E10.8.12", "lines": ["I must depart for Rey; I cannot say", "When I shall see this crown some future day."]}, {"id": "E10.8.13", "lines": ["Against these Arab spearmen in the fray,", "Men strong as I have perished, swept away."]}, {"id": "E10.8.14", "lines": ["No horseman in the world matched Rostam’s name;", "No sage had heard of one with equal fame."]}, {"id": "E10.8.15", "lines": ["Yet by a crow-head’s hand that hero died;", "So Fortune turned against us in its tide."]}, {"id": "E10.8.16", "lines": ["May God among the good let him remain,", "And give that black crow piercing arrows’ pain.”"]}, {"id": "E10.8.17", "lines": ["Mahwi replied, “O Pahlevan of worth,", "The Shah is eye and soul to me on earth."]}, {"id": "E10.8.18", "lines": ["I now accept the charge you give to me:", "Your king, your very sky, my trust shall be.”"]}, {"id": "E10.8.19", "lines": ["So Farrokhzad, brave son of Ormozd, went", "To Rey, where he by royal command was sent."]}, {"id": "E10.8.20", "lines": ["The circling sky revolved from day to day,", "And love from Mahwi’s heart had ebbed away."]}, {"id": "E10.8.21", "lines": ["The shepherd craved the throne; his nature turned,", "And all his former ways of life he spurned."]}, {"id": "E10.8.22", "lines": ["He feigned an illness, kept himself apart,", "And plotted treason in his darkened heart."]}, {"id": "E10.9.1", "lines": ["There was a Pahlevan of Turk-Khan’s line,", "Bijan by name, whom Fortune made to shine."]}, {"id": "E10.9.2", "lines": ["He dwelt within Samarkand’s storied land,", "With many kinsmen near on every hand."]}, {"id": "E10.9.3", "lines": ["Ill-starred Mahwi, grown bold in evil will,", "Wrote him a letter, bent on darker ill:"]}, {"id": "E10.9.4", "lines": ["“O prosperous scion of the warrior line,", "A strife has risen where your strength may shine."]}, {"id": "E10.9.5", "lines": ["The Shah is here at Marv with all his force,", "With crown and throne and treasure in his course."]}, {"id": "E10.9.6", "lines": ["If you should come, his crown and head are yours,", "His throne and parasol, his treasured stores."]}, {"id": "E10.9.7", "lines": ["Recall the vengeance owed your ancient sires,", "And pay this unjust house what wrath requires.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.8", "lines": ["Bijan considered what the letter meant,", "And saw Mahwi on winning empire bent."]}, {"id": "E10.9.9", "lines": ["He turned and spoke to one in counsel wise:", "“What course should prudent men like us advise?"]}, {"id": "E10.9.10", "lines": ["If I lead forth my troops to aid Mahwi,", "That act will bring destruction back to me.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.11", "lines": ["The minister replied, “O lion-heart,", "To go and aid him shames your noble part."]}, {"id": "E10.9.12", "lines": ["Command Barsam to march with troops instead,", "To help upon the field where blood is shed."]}, {"id": "E10.9.13", "lines": ["If Suri’s bidding takes you to the fight,", "A man of weight will hold your judgment light.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.14", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “It is well; I will not go;", "Barsam shall lead the force against the foe.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.15", "lines": ["He sent out Barsam with ten thousand strong,", "Brave horsemen, swordsmen, trained for battle long."]}, {"id": "E10.9.16", "lines": ["They rode to Marv to wage their bold campaign,", "In hope that Iran’s throne would be their gain."]}, {"id": "E10.9.17", "lines": ["That force from Bukhara flew on its way,", "Like pheasants winging hard, with no delay."]}, {"id": "E10.9.18", "lines": ["They reached the town of Marv within a week;", "The tabiras replied to the cock’s shriek."]}, {"id": "E10.9.19", "lines": ["The Shah knew nothing of the ambush set,", "Nor that Mahwi Suri had spread the net."]}, {"id": "E10.9.20", "lines": ["The shouts arose; at dawn a horseman came,", "And spoke to Yazdegard in Mahwi’s name:"]}, {"id": "E10.9.21", "lines": ["“Mahwi declares: ‘The Turks are gathered here;", "What bidding has the Shah for us to hear?"]}, {"id": "E10.9.22", "lines": ["The Khan and Faghfoor’s captain leads the horde;", "Its weight is more than earth can bear, my lord.’”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.23", "lines": ["The Shah in rage donned jowshan, set to ride;", "The armies now approached from either side."]}, {"id": "E10.9.24", "lines": ["He ranged the center, left and right in line,", "Then all advanced beneath the battle sign."]}, {"id": "E10.9.25", "lines": ["Spear in his hand, he held the center ground,", "While clouds of dust obscured the world around."]}, {"id": "E10.9.26", "lines": ["He saw the Turks engage with heated breath,", "Unsheathed his sword, and moved like marching death."]}, {"id": "E10.9.27", "lines": ["He charged, an elephant in wrath and might;", "Earth surged like Nile beneath him in the fight."]}, {"id": "E10.9.28", "lines": ["He charged the Turkish ranks, but none would stay", "Behind their king to help him in the fray."]}, {"id": "E10.9.29", "lines": ["They turned their backs and left their king alone,", "Ringed round by horsemen, fighting on his own."]}, {"id": "E10.9.30", "lines": ["When Mahwi fled, the Shah knew treason’s art,", "And saw the secret plot in every part."]}, {"id": "E10.9.31", "lines": ["Mahwi had planned to leave him without aid,", "Yet still the Shah his warrior strength displayed."]}, {"id": "E10.9.32", "lines": ["He slew renowned men in the bitter fray,", "Then, helpless, turned his horse and fled away."]}, {"id": "E10.9.33", "lines": ["The Kabul blade was still within his hand,", "While many Turks pursued across the land."]}, {"id": "E10.9.34", "lines": ["He sped like lightning flashing from a cloud,", "And found a mill beyond the chasing crowd."]}, {"id": "E10.9.35", "lines": ["Beside the Zark he left his weary steed,", "And hid within the mill in desperate need."]}, {"id": "E10.9.36", "lines": ["All the troops searched the stream with hue and cry,", "While turmoil filled the land beneath the sky."]}, {"id": "E10.9.37", "lines": ["His horse’s harness shone with gold; nearby", "His gorz and gold-sheathed sword were left to lie."]}, {"id": "E10.9.38", "lines": ["The Turks cried loudly when they saw the gear,", "Excited by the signs that he was near."]}, {"id": "E10.9.39", "lines": ["He hid within a mill, a humble shed,", "Sat on dry grass, while horsemen past him sped."]}, {"id": "E10.9.40", "lines": ["Such is this faithless world, whose turns deceive:", "It crowns a man, then leaves him there to grieve."]}, {"id": "E10.9.41", "lines": ["His throne had once ascended to the sky;", "Now in a mill he sat, with none nearby."]}, {"id": "E10.9.42", "lines": ["Such poison far outweighed the sweetness past;", "The world’s brief joys are never made to last."]}, {"id": "E10.9.43", "lines": ["Why love this cheating house of transient breath,", "When tabiras now sound the march to death?"]}, {"id": "E10.9.44", "lines": ["They bid you pack and leave; the grave’s dark ground", "Must be the only throne where you are crowned."]}, {"id": "E10.9.45", "lines": ["With empty mouth and tear-filled, sleepless eyes,", "The Shah remained there till the sun would rise."]}, {"id": "E10.9.46", "lines": ["At dawn the miller came along the track,", "And opened up, with grass upon his back."]}, {"id": "E10.9.47", "lines": ["The low-born man was Khosrow known by name,", "Poor, with no crown or treasure he could claim."]}, {"id": "E10.9.48", "lines": ["He lived by grinding at that mill alone;", "No other trade or livelihood was known."]}, {"id": "E10.9.49", "lines": ["He saw a man of cypress stature, bent", "Upon the dust, worn down with deep lament."]}, {"id": "E10.9.50", "lines": ["A kingly crown was set upon his head,", "And Chin’s bright brocade shone about him spread."]}, {"id": "E10.9.51", "lines": ["His eyes were like a stag’s; his chest and neck", "Were lion-formed for battle’s storm and wreck."]}, {"id": "E10.9.52", "lines": ["No eye could tire of looking on his frame;", "His boots and pearl-set sleeves with gold aflame."]}, {"id": "E10.9.53", "lines": ["Khosrow looked on, amazed, and called on God,", "Then spoke to him across the dusty sod:"]}, {"id": "E10.9.54", "lines": ["“O sun-faced man, what road has brought you here,", "To rest where wheat and dust and hay appear?"]}, {"id": "E10.9.55", "lines": ["Who are you, whom such form and farr embrace?", "The sky has never seen so fair a face.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.56", "lines": ["The Shah replied, “I am Iranian-born,", "In flight from Turan’s army, spent and worn.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.57", "lines": ["The miller, shamed, replied, “I have no friend", "Except my poverty, which has no end."]}, {"id": "E10.9.58", "lines": ["Yet barley bread and river cress are mine;", "I bring them, should they suit a man so fine."]}, {"id": "E10.9.59", "lines": ["I own no more; a poor man knows this ill,", "And cries beneath the weight of hardship still.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.60", "lines": ["The Shah, from three days’ battle, had not slept,", "Nor found a feast while war its hold had kept."]}, {"id": "E10.9.61", "lines": ["He answered, “Bring your food, and bring to me", "The barsom twigs, as sacred rites decree.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.62", "lines": ["The miller set a woven tray of bread", "And greens before him; then for barsom sped."]}, {"id": "E10.9.63", "lines": ["He hurried to the chief of Zark to plead", "For barsom, sacred twigs to meet his need."]}, {"id": "E10.9.64", "lines": ["Mahwi had sent men searching every side,", "To find the place where Yazdegard might hide."]}, {"id": "E10.9.65", "lines": ["The chieftain asked him whom the twigs were for;", "The miller told him what he saw before:"]}, {"id": "E10.9.66", "lines": ["“A warrior sits upon the grass,” he said,", "“Within my mill, a crown upon his head."]}, {"id": "E10.9.67", "lines": ["A cypress in his height, his face a star,", "With arched brows, mournful eyes, and kingly farr."]}, {"id": "E10.9.68", "lines": ["His mouth is full of sighs, his soul of pain;", "I set my humble fare before him plain."]}, {"id": "E10.9.69", "lines": ["Upon an old, worn tray I set his bread;", "He calls for barsom first, and then is fed."]}, {"id": "E10.9.70", "lines": ["With baj, the grace, he means to bless his fare;", "Well may you wonder at a man so rare.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.71", "lines": ["The chieftain said, “Go swiftly on your way;", "Tell Mahwi Suri what you had to say.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.72", "lines": ["He gave the miller to a trusty guide,", "Who brought him safely to Mahwi’s side."]}, {"id": "E10.9.73", "lines": ["Mahwi then asked, “For whom were twigs required?", "Speak truth, and tell me all that he desired.”"]}, {"id": "E10.9.74", "lines": ["The trembling miller said, “My grass I bore;", "At dawn I reached the mill to work my chore."]}, {"id": "E10.9.75", "lines": ["I saw the sun itself! His eyes were bright,", "Two narcissus blooms, like a stag’s in fright."]}, {"id": "E10.9.76", "lines": ["His two dark tresses seemed the night grown deep,", "When two full watches pass and others sleep."]}, {"id": "E10.9.77", "lines": ["From him the mill was radiant as the day;", "His food was bread; his seat was withered hay.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.1", "lines": ["Who has not seen God’s farr should pause and hear", "The miller’s words, which make that Glory clear."]}, {"id": "E10.10.2", "lines": ["“His crown is filled with flawless gems and bright;", "His Chin brocade shines out with radiant light."]}, {"id": "E10.10.3", "lines": ["He seems the spring when Ardibehesht is here;", "No planted cypress ever was his peer.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.4", "lines": ["When Mahwi pondered, in his heart he knew:", "“This man is Yazdegard; the tale is true.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.5", "lines": ["He bade the miller, “Hasten, take his head;", "Delay, and you this instant shall be dead."]}, {"id": "E10.10.6", "lines": ["I will not leave one branch of all your race,", "But sweep your stock from every living place.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.7", "lines": ["The chiefs and nobles heard Mahwi’s command,", "And wrath arose through all that gathered band."]}, {"id": "E10.10.8", "lines": ["Their tongues were full of words, their eyes of tears,", "As horror moved among the mighty peers."]}, {"id": "E10.10.9", "lines": ["A learned Mobad, Radwi, wise in mind,", "Whose every thought by wisdom was refined,"]}, {"id": "E10.10.10", "lines": ["Said, “Evil man, why has the Div made blind", "Your eyes, and left your judgment far behind?"]}, {"id": "E10.10.11", "lines": ["Kingship and prophecy, in concord bright,", "Are two gems set within one ring of light."]}, {"id": "E10.10.12", "lines": ["To break the one casts soul and wisdom down,", "And tramples both beneath the broken crown."]}, {"id": "E10.10.13", "lines": ["Reflect upon your words, and then forbear;", "Trust in the Maker; do not doubt His care."]}, {"id": "E10.10.14", "lines": ["The first of all the harm will fall on you;", "You leave your sons a field of sorrow, too."]}, {"id": "E10.10.15", "lines": ["Its fruit is colocynth; its leaves will bear", "The blood your sons must harvest in despair."]}, {"id": "E10.10.16", "lines": ["Soon you will see your head abased in shame,", "Your villainy exposed for all to blame."]}, {"id": "E10.10.17", "lines": ["God’s Faith is ruined by your evil aim;", "The crown and throne will curse your very name.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.18", "lines": ["Then Ormozd, son of Kharrad, rose that day,", "A pious elder walking virtue’s way."]}, {"id": "E10.10.19", "lines": ["Firm in the Faith, he said, “O cruel heart,", "Do not from God’s straight, stainless road depart."]}, {"id": "E10.10.20", "lines": ["I see your heart and sense obscured by night;", "Within your arms are thorns you hold so tight."]}, {"id": "E10.10.21", "lines": ["Though strong in limb, your mind is weak and dire;", "You seek the smoke that rises from the fire."]}, {"id": "E10.10.22", "lines": ["I see reproach await you here below,", "And after death, sharp travail, pain, and woe."]}, {"id": "E10.10.23", "lines": ["Your lifetime now will be a wretched one;", "Fire is your dwelling when your days are done.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.24", "lines": ["He sat; then Shahruy rose to make reply:", "“Why does your boldness mount so rashly high?"]}, {"id": "E10.10.25", "lines": ["In pride, against the king of kings you stand,", "Allied with Khan and Faghfoor, hand in hand."]}, {"id": "E10.10.26", "lines": ["Men found the sons of kings bereft of aid,", "Yet did not rush to slay them with the blade."]}, {"id": "E10.10.27", "lines": ["Spill not the blood of kings, though low your state;", "Till Resurrection, curses on you wait.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.28", "lines": ["He spoke, then sat in anguish, full of grief,", "His heart oppressed, his eyes without relief."]}, {"id": "E10.10.29", "lines": ["Then Mehr-e-Nush arose in bitter pain,", "And spoke to Mahwi in a forceful strain:"]}, {"id": "E10.10.30", "lines": ["“O evil man, from evil stock descended,", "No foresight yours, no justice comprehended,"]}, {"id": "E10.10.31", "lines": ["The fierce nahang respects the royal vein;", "The leopard will not tear a monarch slain."]}, {"id": "E10.10.32", "lines": ["In love and nature, worse than beasts are you;", "Yet still the royal throne you would pursue."]}, {"id": "E10.10.33", "lines": ["You covet now the Shah’s imperial crown;", "Consider kings that fate has broken down."]}, {"id": "E10.10.34", "lines": ["When Jamshid fell beneath Zahhak’s dark hand,", "How long the heavens wheeled above the land!"]}, {"id": "E10.10.35", "lines": ["When Zahhak ruled the world and had his way,", "Abtin appeared upon the earth one day."]}, {"id": "E10.10.36", "lines": ["He fathered glorious Fereydoon in time,", "Who turned the world away from paths of crime."]}, {"id": "E10.10.37", "lines": ["You know what doom the tyrant Zahhak brought", "Upon himself for all the ill he wrought."]}, {"id": "E10.10.38", "lines": ["Though he endured above a thousand years,", "The avenger came and answered all men’s tears."]}, {"id": "E10.10.39", "lines": ["Again, when Tur, consumed by jealous greed,", "Against his brother Iraj planned the deed,"]}, {"id": "E10.10.40", "lines": ["And slew the virtuous Iraj in hate,", "The heavens turned against him in his state."]}, {"id": "E10.10.41", "lines": ["Then Manuchehr arose from Iraj’s race,", "And broke those bonds and set things back in place."]}, {"id": "E10.10.42", "lines": ["Third, Siavash, born of the Kayanian line,", "Bound up his waist, though not by glad design."]}, {"id": "E10.10.43", "lines": ["Afrasiab, by Garsivaz misled,", "Washed shame and honor from his heart and head."]}, {"id": "E10.10.44", "lines": ["He slew the young and rightful prince; from then", "He faced the hatred of the world of men."]}, {"id": "E10.10.45", "lines": ["From Siavash, Kay Khosrow then arose,", "And filled the earth with terror for his foes."]}, {"id": "E10.10.46", "lines": ["He split his grandfather with steel in two,", "And fear through every vengeful spirit flew."]}, {"id": "E10.10.47", "lines": ["The fourth avenged Lohrasp, whom Arjasp slew,", "Who then was caught by vengeance, as was due."]}, {"id": "E10.10.48", "lines": ["For Esfandiyar went forth in wrath to fight,", "And took swift vengeance with the sword’s full might."]}, {"id": "E10.10.49", "lines": ["The fifth recalls Esfandiyar, laid low", "By Rostam’s hand, which dealt the fatal blow."]}, {"id": "E10.10.50", "lines": ["Revenge then came to Rostam and his land;", "Nimruz, in turn, was struck by vengeance’s hand."]}, {"id": "E10.10.51", "lines": ["Remember Bahman’s deeds, the dust he raised", "From Nariman’s great house, once highly praised."]}, {"id": "E10.10.52", "lines": ["The sixth recalls King Pirooz, high in fame,", "Upon whose head that bitter ruin came."]}, {"id": "E10.10.53", "lines": ["Brave Sofrye girded up his loins in might,", "To avenge King Pirooz and restore the right."]}, {"id": "E10.10.54", "lines": ["The seventh: Hormizd’s death, the vengeance due,", "When Parviz’s strength and royal power grew."]}, {"id": "E10.10.55", "lines": ["He dealt, as all the chronicles will show,", "With Bandvi and Gostaham, blow for blow."]}, {"id": "E10.10.56", "lines": ["The sky that turned above them turned the same;", "It kept its course through blood, revenge, and shame."]}, {"id": "E10.10.57", "lines": ["He struck them down in his day of strength and wrath;", "Revenge arrives and opens its own path."]}, {"id": "E10.10.58", "lines": ["One may not scorn the hour revenge will choose;", "That hour will come to you, and you will lose."]}, {"id": "E10.10.59", "lines": ["You will be punished for your evil thought;", "Your son will reap the poison you have brought."]}, {"id": "E10.10.60", "lines": ["Time never sleeps; turn from this wealth and gold,", "This tainted crown you covet now to hold."]}, {"id": "E10.10.61", "lines": ["You rise because the Div commands your heart,", "And from the road of holy God depart."]}, {"id": "E10.10.62", "lines": ["You seek a rank that does not fit your soul;", "The Div deceives and draws you toward that goal."]}, {"id": "E10.10.63", "lines": ["Burn not your soul and body in Hell-fire;", "Do not defile the crown through base desire."]}, {"id": "E10.10.64", "lines": ["Recall your scattered troops; let all draw near,", "And gather every warrior waiting here."]}, {"id": "E10.10.65", "lines": ["Go ask the Shah to pardon what you did,", "And let your plea be heard, no longer hid."]}, {"id": "E10.10.66", "lines": ["When you behold him, fealty renew;", "Then muster for the battle to ensue."]}, {"id": "E10.10.67", "lines": ["Be swift to seek forgiveness for your deed;", "Let wisdom guide your tongue in time of need."]}, {"id": "E10.10.68", "lines": ["If you refuse the counsel of the sage,", "In both worlds, infamy will be your wage."]}, {"id": "E10.10.69", "lines": ["The task that you should undertake today,", "Tomorrow falls to ruin through delay."]}, {"id": "E10.10.70", "lines": ["You wish the Shah more harm than Turks would do;", "How can such bitter malice dwell in you?"]}, {"id": "E10.10.71", "lines": ["In battle, lion-like, he strikes with might;", "Upon the throne he shines with moonlike light."]}, {"id": "E10.10.72", "lines": ["He is the memory of Sasanian grace;", "No other king can stand within his place."]}, {"id": "E10.10.73", "lines": ["From sire to sire, his fathers kept their trust", "In wisdom, lovers of the right and just."]}, {"id": "E10.10.74", "lines": ["From Anooshirvan down through Ardeshir,", "Their wisdom kept the royal pathway clear."]}, {"id": "E10.10.75", "lines": ["Behind that royal line stands Sasan’s name,", "A crowned world-ruler, rich in kingly fame."]}, {"id": "E10.10.76", "lines": ["The crown Kayanian God gave that race;", "Its kings were nobly born; farr lit each face."]}, {"id": "E10.10.77", "lines": ["Many have been your betters, yet not one", "Conceived such plans beneath the circling sun."]}, {"id": "E10.10.78", "lines": ["As for Bahram Chubin, in his day,", "Three hundred thousand horsemen fled away"]}, {"id": "E10.10.79", "lines": ["On steeds in bargostvan, at one shaft’s blow,", "And left the field to him in sudden woe."]}, {"id": "E10.10.80", "lines": ["Yet when his heart grew tired of Shahs by birth,", "The head of his bright Fortune fell to earth."]}, {"id": "E10.10.81", "lines": ["So Farayin, who sought the royal throne,", "Unfit to rule, made evil deeds his own,"]}, {"id": "E10.10.82", "lines": ["Was miserably slain, his pride laid low;", "Not without cause did time decree it so."]}, {"id": "E10.10.83", "lines": ["Fear Him, Yazdan who made the world we see,", "The crown, the throne, the signet of decree."]}, {"id": "E10.10.84", "lines": ["Do not disgrace yourself through reckless aim;", "These deeds will rise as witnesses of shame."]}, {"id": "E10.10.85", "lines": ["Know: he who speaks no truth before your face", "Is foe to your soul, not friend in any case."]}, {"id": "E10.10.86", "lines": ["Now you are sick; we healers weep in grief,", "With bloody tears, and seek to bring relief."]}, {"id": "E10.10.87", "lines": ["You rank below the servants’ lowest slave;", "Let not your scheming heart a kingdom crave."]}, {"id": "E10.10.88", "lines": ["You wage your enmity with God on high;", "Through merit seek the throne beneath the sky.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.89", "lines": ["The shepherd-born had fixed his heart on power;", "Their counsel proved too bitter in that hour."]}, {"id": "E10.10.90", "lines": ["So has it always been; it is not new:", "Fortune’s derisions pass beyond our view."]}, {"id": "E10.10.91", "lines": ["It lifts one man into the lofty sky,", "And leaves another crushed and cast awry."]}, {"id": "E10.10.92", "lines": ["No love for one, no hate for one laid low:", "Who can the Maker’s hidden secret know?"]}, {"id": "E10.10.93", "lines": ["The Mobadan warned him until the sun", "Had set and moonrise showed the day was done."]}, {"id": "E10.10.94", "lines": ["Yet still their counsel failed to change his heart;", "It could not make his restlessness depart."]}, {"id": "E10.10.95", "lines": ["When night had come, he said, “O sages, go;", "Tonight I ask my son what he may know."]}, {"id": "E10.10.96", "lines": ["We will call from camp some twenty wise men here,", "To weigh this course and make its outcome clear.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.97", "lines": ["The prudent Mobad left; a man of lore,", "A Mobad from his army, came before."]}, {"id": "E10.10.98", "lines": ["He sat with trusted men and bade them hear:", "“What do you think? Should the Shah live, I fear,"]}, {"id": "E10.10.99", "lines": ["Troops will collect to him from every side;", "My secret now is known both far and wide."]}, {"id": "E10.10.100", "lines": ["By now all men have heard what I intend;", "His enmity will bring me to my end."]}, {"id": "E10.10.101", "lines": ["No life or land will then remain to me,", "Nor goods upon this earth, as you may see.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.102", "lines": ["A wise man answered, “You should not have done", "This deed at all, nor ever have begun."]}, {"id": "E10.10.103", "lines": ["If Iran’s Shah, your foe, in wrath should burn,", "His hurtful enmity you then will learn."]}, {"id": "E10.10.104", "lines": ["But if you spill his blood upon the sod,", "His great avenger in this world is God."]}, {"id": "E10.10.105", "lines": ["On either hand lie grief and bitter pain;", "Consider what your course may lose or gain.”"]}, {"id": "E10.10.106", "lines": ["His son replied, “O father, wise in thought,", "Be rid of him whose enmity you sought.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.1", "lines": ["“From Machin and from Chin his troops will rise,", "And narrow all the world before our eyes."]}, {"id": "E10.11.2", "lines": ["Do not regard this as a trifling deed;", "While you hold power, press on till you succeed."]}, {"id": "E10.11.3", "lines": ["His robe could serve as banner to his band,", "And sweep you and your army from the land.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.4", "lines": ["Then shameless Mahwi heard his son’s intent,", "And to the miller turned, on murder bent."]}, {"id": "E10.11.5", "lines": ["“Rise up,” he said, “take horsemen; ride, and kill", "My enemy: his blood I bid you spill."]}, {"id": "E10.11.6", "lines": ["If he escapes us now, he will be free;", "No hope remains to bring him back to me.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.7", "lines": ["The miller heard and knew not what to do;", "His heart was torn, his terror sharper grew."]}, {"id": "E10.11.8", "lines": ["On Niran’s night, in Khordad month, he sped", "Back to the mill, his spirit cold with dread."]}, {"id": "E10.11.9", "lines": ["When from Mahwi’s court gate he went away,", "His eyes were charged with tears and dark dismay."]}, {"id": "E10.11.10", "lines": ["Mahwi, his heart full, sent a mounted band,", "Swift as the smoke, to follow, spears in hand."]}, {"id": "E10.11.11", "lines": ["He charged them, “Keep his earrings free of stain,", "His crown and seal; let no blood-mark remain."]}, {"id": "E10.11.12", "lines": ["Keep clean the royal garments that he wore;", "Strip them from him when he shall breathe no more.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.13", "lines": ["With tearful eyes, his face grown pale and wan,", "The miller cursed the deed as he went on."]}, {"id": "E10.11.14", "lines": ["“Almighty Judge, above all turning time,", "Wring Mahwi’s heart and soul for this dark crime,"]}, {"id": "E10.11.15", "lines": ["For this abhorred command,” he cried in shame,", "With mouth gone dry and tear-stained cheeks he came."]}, {"id": "E10.11.16", "lines": ["He reached the Shah and cautiously drew near,", "As one who whispers secrets in the ear."]}, {"id": "E10.11.17", "lines": ["Then with a dirk he struck his royal side;", "The Shah cried “Ah!” and fell as life’s flame died."]}, {"id": "E10.11.18", "lines": ["His head and crown fell heavily; the bread", "Of barley lay before the monarch, dead."]}, {"id": "E10.11.19", "lines": ["Who hopes to linger in this world of pain", "Has little wisdom in his heart or brain."]}, {"id": "E10.11.20", "lines": ["No wisdom rules the turning azure sky;", "Its wrath and love perplex the searching eye."]}, {"id": "E10.11.21", "lines": ["Look not with love upon the world below,", "Nor from its deeds let love or anger grow."]}, {"id": "E10.11.22", "lines": ["The seven spheres, grown weary, now discard", "Their guiltless ward: thus dies King Yazdegard."]}, {"id": "E10.11.23", "lines": ["No king has perished in a way so low,", "Nor horseman of his force endured such woe."]}, {"id": "E10.11.24", "lines": ["The horsemen sent by cursed Mahwi found", "The royal cypress fallen to the ground."]}, {"id": "E10.11.25", "lines": ["At rest from throne and battlefield he lay;", "They came to view his face in that dismay."]}, {"id": "E10.11.26", "lines": ["They stripped his violet robe, his torque and crown,", "His golden boots, then cast his body down."]}, {"id": "E10.11.27", "lines": ["Upon the earth he lay, his body red;", "A blade had gashed the royal side that bled."]}, {"id": "E10.11.28", "lines": ["Blood-matted, flung upon the dust he lay;", "The emissaries cursed Mahwi that day:"]}, {"id": "E10.11.29", "lines": ["“May Mahwi lie like this upon the plain,", "All gory on the earth in grief and pain.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.30", "lines": ["They brought an armlet back, and gems agleam,", "Undrilled, to him who planned this deadly scheme."]}, {"id": "E10.11.31", "lines": ["They told Mahwi, “The exalted Shah is dead;", "From ease and warfare now his life has fled.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.32", "lines": ["He bade them cast the body from the mill", "Into the water when the night was still."]}, {"id": "E10.11.33", "lines": ["Two cruel servants dragged the monarch’s frame,", "All bloody, with no reverence for his name."]}, {"id": "E10.11.34", "lines": ["They cast him into Zark’s revolving flow,", "Nor cared what worth the dead man had to show."]}, {"id": "E10.11.35", "lines": ["As daylight came and people filled the way,", "Two noble men approached where Yazdegard lay."]}, {"id": "E10.11.36", "lines": ["One austere monk approached the riverside,", "And saw the naked body in the tide."]}, {"id": "E10.11.37", "lines": ["He hurried from the bank in wild dismay,", "And told the monks his news without delay:"]}, {"id": "E10.11.38", "lines": ["“The Shah lies naked in the waters dark,", "Within the turning whirlpool here at Zark.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.39", "lines": ["Then monks and prelates hastened from each side,", "To mourn the monarch lying in the tide."]}, {"id": "E10.11.40", "lines": ["A monk cried out in grief: “O noble man,", "O crown-possessor from the royal clan!"]}, {"id": "E10.11.41", "lines": ["No eye has seen a monarch in this plight;", "Before Christ, none had heard of such a sight."]}, {"id": "E10.11.42", "lines": ["His wicked slave, that misbegotten hound,", "Has brought this shame upon the royal ground."]}, {"id": "E10.11.43", "lines": ["He fawned upon his lord, then brought him low;", "May Mahwi reap the curses that we sow."]}, {"id": "E10.11.44", "lines": ["Woe for the head and crown, the stature tall,", "For heart and wisdom, counsel; woe for all."]}, {"id": "E10.11.45", "lines": ["Woe for the royal line once held so dear,", "Woe for Ardeshir’s last descendant here."]}, {"id": "E10.11.46", "lines": ["Woe for the Sasanian throne, its lost renown,", "Its farr, its stature, the Kayanian crown."]}, {"id": "E10.11.47", "lines": ["Woe for that young Pahlevan we revere,", "Strong, noble, wise, and royal without peer."]}, {"id": "E10.11.48", "lines": ["Go tell Anooshirvan how, in the mill,", "They struck your moon-bright form and left it still."]}, {"id": "E10.11.49", "lines": ["Though you were king and held the crown’s command,", "They pierced your liver by a miller’s hand."]}, {"id": "E10.11.50", "lines": ["They stripped your noble body in the gloom,", "And flung you naked to the river’s doom.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.51", "lines": ["Four holy monks plunged in the swirling tide,", "And drew the youthful monarch to the side."]}, {"id": "E10.11.52", "lines": ["They drew Anooshirvan’s heir to land,", "While all the people mourned upon the strand."]}, {"id": "E10.11.53", "lines": ["They built his tomb within a garden fair,", "And raised its summit to the clouds in air."]}, {"id": "E10.11.54", "lines": ["They sealed his wound with gum and pitch and musk,", "With camphor bright against the mortal dusk."]}, {"id": "E10.11.55", "lines": ["In yellow brocade was his body dressed,", "With fine soft linen underneath for rest."]}, {"id": "E10.11.56", "lines": ["A lapis-blue cloth over him was spread;", "With wine and scents a prelate dressed his bed."]}, {"id": "E10.11.57", "lines": ["With musk and camphor, rosewater and wine,", "They dressed his resting place with fragrance fine."]}, {"id": "E10.11.58", "lines": ["When they had laid the royal cypress low,", "A noble dehqan, one of Marv, spoke so:"]}, {"id": "E10.11.59", "lines": ["“Reward lies hidden in the toil we know;", "Content, a man may leave this world below.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.60", "lines": ["Another said, “Though he could laugh, know this:", "He suffered here within this world’s abyss."]}, {"id": "E10.11.61", "lines": ["The sky deceives him with its fickle turns,", "And rise and fall along the way he learns.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.62", "lines": ["Another said, “Call no man wise or whole", "Who serves his body and neglects his soul,"]}, {"id": "E10.11.63", "lines": ["Who seeks out wealth despite his name’s disgrace,", "Nor fears the blame his soul must one day face.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.64", "lines": ["Another said, “The king’s lips now are sealed;", "No throne or crown to him will be revealed."]}, {"id": "E10.11.65", "lines": ["No seal, no court, no country can remain;", "Why spend such toil and time for empty gain?”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.66", "lines": ["Another said, “Your words were wise and true;", "I have no praise to match the worth of you."]}, {"id": "E10.11.67", "lines": ["You planted in the grounds of Paradise", "A cypress now beheld by spirit’s eyes.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.68", "lines": ["Another said, “God took your soul away,", "And left your flesh to mourners here today."]}, {"id": "E10.11.69", "lines": ["Hereby your soul receives its proper gain;", "Your murderer’s body enters grief and pain."]}, {"id": "E10.11.70", "lines": ["The Shah’s work now in Paradise is whole;", "His murderer takes the road that damns the soul.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.71", "lines": ["Another said, “Wise heir of Ardeshir,", "The harvest of your sowing now is clear."]}, {"id": "E10.11.72", "lines": ["You reap the crop you planted; clear and bright,", "The lamp of kingship sheds its royal light.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.73", "lines": ["Another said, “Though you are sleeping, king,", "Your spirit wakes beyond the mortal ring."]}, {"id": "E10.11.74", "lines": ["Your lips are mute; your spirit, with a groan,", "Went forth, and left your body still as stone."]}, {"id": "E10.11.75", "lines": ["Your body rests; your soul works on instead;", "Your foe shall hang upon the gallows, dead."]}, {"id": "E10.11.76", "lines": ["Your spirit speaks, although your lips are sealed;", "Your soul has flourished, though your flesh must yield."]}, {"id": "E10.11.77", "lines": ["Though from your hand the reins have slipped away,", "Your spirit still bears spears in battle’s day.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.78", "lines": ["Another said, “O famous warrior gone,", "Your deeds became the guides that led you on."]}, {"id": "E10.11.79", "lines": ["Your throne is Paradise, whose courts are vast;", "This faithless earth to other hands has passed.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.80", "lines": ["Another said, “Whoever struck you through", "Shall meet harsh days when Fate demands its due.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.81", "lines": ["The prelate said, “Your servants mourn today,", "And praise your holy soul as here we pray."]}, {"id": "E10.11.82", "lines": ["May this your tomb be bright with tulip light,", "Your shroud your plain and upland of delight.”"]}, {"id": "E10.11.83", "lines": ["They spoke, then raised the coffin from the plain,", "And bore it to the tomb amid their pain."]}, {"id": "E10.11.84", "lines": ["Thus came the hapless Shah to rest at last;", "His toil, his throne, his crown; all now were past."]}, {"id": "E10.11.85", "lines": ["What shall we call the seven heavens’ deed:", "Justice, or vengeance on the Shah decreed?"]}, {"id": "E10.12.1", "lines": ["If Heaven knows not vengeance, knows not right,", "No sage has brought an answer into light."]}, {"id": "E10.12.2", "lines": ["The man of faith spoke words obscure and bound;", "Within his speech no answer could be found."]}, {"id": "E10.12.3", "lines": ["If you have treasure, wise man, use its store;", "Let not your heart await one morning more."]}, {"id": "E10.12.4", "lines": ["Time counts our breaths; the world is passing by,", "And all our days beneath its motion fly."]}, {"id": "E10.12.5", "lines": ["While you still live, His gifts will never cease;", "The One who gave will give you fresh increase."]}, {"id": "E10.12.6", "lines": ["If what I earned could meet what I must spend,", "Then Fortune would be brother, kin, and friend."]}, {"id": "E10.12.7", "lines": ["This year the hail came like a deadly gale;", "For me, death would be better than that hail."]}, {"id": "E10.12.8", "lines": ["The lofty heavens shut away my store", "Of fuel and wheat and sheep; I have no more."]}, {"id": "E10.12.9", "lines": ["Bring wine; our days are few and soon are gone;", "The world stays with no man, but passes on."]}, {"id": "E10.12.10", "lines": ["One came and told Mahwi, “The Shah now lies", "Concealed beneath the dust from mortal eyes."]}, {"id": "E10.12.11", "lines": ["The prelates, priests, and monks of Rum all came,", "With mourners of that land, to mourn his name."]}, {"id": "E10.12.12", "lines": ["The mourners all went wailing to the stream,", "And drew his body forth, once held supreme."]}, {"id": "E10.12.13", "lines": ["Within an orchard stood the tomb they made,", "Whose soaring summit rose above the glade.”"]}, {"id": "E10.12.14", "lines": ["Then luckless Mahwi cried, “Was this our way?", "Was Iran kin to Rum before today?”"]}, {"id": "E10.12.15", "lines": ["He sent to slay the men who built the tomb,", "And all who mourned him there, to share their doom."]}, {"id": "E10.12.16", "lines": ["They slew them, and they plundered all the land;", "Such was the wish that guided Mahwi’s hand."]}, {"id": "E10.12.17", "lines": ["He searched the world, but all his search was vain,", "And found no scion of the royal strain."]}, {"id": "E10.12.18", "lines": ["He held the Shah’s own signet and his crown,", "And longed to claim the throne and its renown."]}, {"id": "E10.12.19", "lines": ["He called his intimates and made it known", "What purpose in his secret heart had grown."]}, {"id": "E10.12.20", "lines": ["He told his minister, a man grown wise,", "“The day of shame and battle meets our eyes."]}, {"id": "E10.12.21", "lines": ["I have no treasure, lineage, or fame;", "My head may fly upon the winds of shame."]}, {"id": "E10.12.22", "lines": ["The name of Yazdegard is on the seal;", "They will not bow before my sword of steel."]}, {"id": "E10.12.23", "lines": ["Throughout Iran, the towns obeyed his throne;", "Their service and allegiance were his own."]}, {"id": "E10.12.24", "lines": ["The sages do not hail me as their king;", "The troops place no reliance on my ring."]}, {"id": "E10.12.25", "lines": ["My plots were meant to turn another way;", "Why did I spill the king’s blood on that day?"]}, {"id": "E10.12.26", "lines": ["All night my thoughts have filled my heart with pain;", "God knows the anguish in which I remain.”"]}, {"id": "E10.12.27", "lines": ["The counselor replied, “The deed is done,", "And rumor spreads beneath the circling sun."]}, {"id": "E10.12.28", "lines": ["Now mend your own affairs as best you may;", "Your own thread you have broken in this way."]}, {"id": "E10.12.29", "lines": ["The Shah is dust within his silent tomb;", "The earth has soothed his soul within that gloom."]}, {"id": "E10.12.30", "lines": ["Call men of worldly wisdom to your side,", "And sharpen speech with sweetness as your guide."]}, {"id": "E10.12.31", "lines": ["Say this: ‘The Shah gave me his crown and ring,", "As emblems of the power of the king."]}, {"id": "E10.12.32", "lines": ["He knew the Turkish army had drawn near,", "And called me when the darkened night was here."]}, {"id": "E10.12.33", "lines": ["He said: “When battle’s wind begins to blow,", "Who knows on whom the dust of war will go?"]}, {"id": "E10.12.34", "lines": ["Take now this crown and signet in your hand;", "They may serve vengeance when you make your stand."]}, {"id": "E10.12.35", "lines": ["I have one daughter only left to me,", "Still hidden where no Arab eyes can see."]}, {"id": "E10.12.36", "lines": ["Hereafter yield my throne not to the foe;", "By these clear tokens in my pathway go.”"]}, {"id": "E10.12.37", "lines": ["Thus I hold what the Shah placed in my hand,", "And sit upon the throne at his command.’"]}, {"id": "E10.12.38", "lines": ["Use this device to brighten all you do;", "Who knows what words are false, or which are true?”"]}, {"id": "E10.12.39", "lines": ["“Good!” cried Mahwi. “You are a peerless man,", "A minister who shapes the wisest plan.”"]}, {"id": "E10.12.40", "lines": ["He summoned all the captains to his hall,", "And told the lying tale before them all."]}, {"id": "E10.12.41", "lines": ["They knew, “This tale is false; it would be best", "To strike his shameless head from off his breast.”"]}, {"id": "E10.12.42", "lines": ["A Pahlevan said, “True or false, the claim", "Is your affair; you bear it in your name.”"]}, {"id": "E10.12.43", "lines": ["Mahwi then sat upon the royal seat,", "And seized Khorasan through his own deceit."]}, {"id": "E10.12.44", "lines": ["He portioned out the earth among the great;", "“I hold the seal; the world is my estate.”"]}, {"id": "E10.12.45", "lines": ["He gained the world through gifts from his own store;", "The stars looked on in wonder more and more."]}, {"id": "E10.12.46", "lines": ["He granted Balkh and Herat to his heir,", "His eldest son, and sent troops everywhere."]}, {"id": "E10.12.47", "lines": ["He raised the vicious, men of evil mind,", "As fitted one of his own stock and kind."]}, {"id": "E10.12.48", "lines": ["He cast the sages down throughout the land,", "And raised the wicked into high command."]}, {"id": "E10.12.49", "lines": ["The head of right was humbled in disgrace,", "And knavery showed its face in every place."]}, {"id": "E10.12.50", "lines": ["The more he gained in treasure and in might,", "The more the ingrate’s heart swelled with delight."]}, {"id": "E10.12.51", "lines": ["He paid his troops and gave them wealth and power,", "And filled his kin with vaunting pride each hour."]}, {"id": "E10.12.52", "lines": ["A Pahlevan called out his men of war", "And made for Amuy by the river’s shore."]}, {"id": "E10.12.53", "lines": ["Garsiyun, worldly-wise, went on ahead,", "Before the troops, whose scouting force he led."]}, {"id": "E10.12.54", "lines": ["They turned toward Bukhara, armed for the fray,", "A battle-ready army on the way."]}, {"id": "E10.12.55", "lines": ["“To Samarkand and Chakh we march,” he said,", "“To place the crown again upon our head."]}, {"id": "E10.12.56", "lines": ["By Yazdegard’s command we seek this fight,", "Who ruled the seven spheres in royal might."]}, {"id": "E10.12.57", "lines": ["Against Bijan my sword shall now be drawn;", "Through him our Shah’s bright Fortune lost its dawn.”"]}, {"id": "E10.13.1", "lines": ["In time the news to mighty Bijan came:", "“Mahwi has seized the throne and royal name."]}, {"id": "E10.13.2", "lines": ["He sends his seal and signet everywhere;", "The earth accepts the rule he claims to bear."]}, {"id": "E10.13.3", "lines": ["With warlike troops he turns toward Jihun’s strand,", "And comes for battle with a lifted hand.”"]}, {"id": "E10.13.4", "lines": ["“Who gave the crown to him?” then Bijan said;", "The speaker told how Mahwi ruled instead."]}, {"id": "E10.13.5", "lines": ["Then Barsam said, “O king, the mounted band", "I led from Chakh went forth at my command."]}, {"id": "E10.13.6", "lines": ["From here a warlike force went to his side,", "Whose horsemen in fierce battle had been tried."]}, {"id": "E10.13.7", "lines": ["Mahwi had promised you, by word and sign,", "His golden throne and armlet, gems ashine."]}, {"id": "E10.13.8", "lines": ["His crown and treasure, he declared, would go", "To Chakh; all these he promised to bestow."]}, {"id": "E10.13.9", "lines": ["The ivory throne was yours by right, he said;", "For you should rule the world from it instead."]}, {"id": "E10.13.10", "lines": ["For three days I fought hard at Marv; then light", "Rose on the fourth, and I renewed the fight."]}, {"id": "E10.13.11", "lines": ["Distressed at heart, I battled without rest,", "Till tyrant Mahwi fled the field, hard-pressed."]}, {"id": "E10.13.12", "lines": ["The Shah of Iran, left alone that day,", "Called to his comrades in the midst of the fray."]}, {"id": "E10.13.13", "lines": ["He struck down many of our chiefs in fight;", "His comrades left; he turned and took to flight."]}, {"id": "E10.13.14", "lines": ["Thus without toil Mahwi secured the prize,", "And seized his master’s wealth before our eyes."]}, {"id": "E10.13.15", "lines": ["The faithless man, grown rich, forgot me then,", "As though we two had never met as men."]}, {"id": "E10.13.16", "lines": ["Though two full months my troops at Marv held place,", "He showed me neither gratitude nor grace."]}, {"id": "E10.13.17", "lines": ["But secretly he slew his lord and king,", "The world’s bright luster, glory’s living spring."]}, {"id": "E10.13.18", "lines": ["A Pahlevan whose stature, proud and high,", "Appeared to pass the moon within the sky."]}, {"id": "E10.13.19", "lines": ["No Turk approached his gorz upon the field;", "The hearts of mighty men to fear would yield."]}, {"id": "E10.13.20", "lines": ["Once he was slain, Mahwi usurped his place,", "And took the path of evil and disgrace."]}, {"id": "E10.13.21", "lines": ["The scouts report his force is on the way;", "We must not let him bar our road today."]}, {"id": "E10.13.22", "lines": ["Now that the foe in arms invades your land,", "You and your army must arise and stand."]}, {"id": "E10.13.23", "lines": ["Let thorns not blossom in the royal ground,", "Or all the garden’s memory is drowned.”"]}, {"id": "E10.13.24", "lines": ["When Bijan heard, he gathered for the fight", "His Turkish horsemen, warriors of might."]}, {"id": "E10.13.25", "lines": ["From Kachar Bashi he rode out, nor spent", "A single moment idle as he went."]}, {"id": "E10.13.26", "lines": ["When he drew near Bukhara’s outer bound,", "His troops spread over Nakhshab’s level ground."]}, {"id": "E10.13.27", "lines": ["He told his men, “Do not attack too soon;", "Let Mahwi first cross over the Jihun."]}, {"id": "E10.13.28", "lines": ["Let him bring forth his troops and brave the fray;", "Perhaps we shall avenge the Shah today.”"]}, {"id": "E10.13.29", "lines": ["Then Bijan asked, “Did not the king retain", "A child or brother of the royal strain?"]}, {"id": "E10.13.30", "lines": ["If not a son, a daughter might survive;", "Was none of all his children left alive?"]}, {"id": "E10.13.31", "lines": ["That heir we would bring here and give our aid,", "And overcome the man who had betrayed.”"]}, {"id": "E10.13.32", "lines": ["Barsam replied, “My lord, that race is done;", "The Arabs hold their provinces as one."]}, {"id": "E10.13.33", "lines": ["No king remains; the Fire’s own faithful band", "Remains no longer in that conquered land.”"]}, {"id": "E10.13.34", "lines": ["He led his force, his hand upon his head,", "In wonder at the world and filled with dread."]}, {"id": "E10.13.35", "lines": ["The scouts came: “Mahwi’s troops are drawing near;", "At Paykand they prepare for battle here."]}, {"id": "E10.13.36", "lines": ["They crossed by boat; their dust obscured the day,", "And all the plain grew dark along their way.”"]}, {"id": "E10.13.37", "lines": ["Then Bijan rode before his men to lay", "His battle lines in order for the fray."]}, {"id": "E10.13.38", "lines": ["When Mahwi Suri saw that throng appear,", "His soul seemed poised to leave his frame in fear."]}, {"id": "E10.13.39", "lines": ["So many jowshans, helmets, shining bright,", "With golden shields and spears arrayed for fight;"]}, {"id": "E10.13.40", "lines": ["So many gorzes, Chakh-forged axes rose;", "He grieved to see the numbers of his foes."]}, {"id": "E10.13.41", "lines": ["He formed his line against them on the ground;", "The sky grew indigo; dust wrapped them round."]}, {"id": "E10.14.1", "lines": ["When Bijan had arrayed his troops to fight,", "He planned to ambush Iran’s force outright."]}, {"id": "E10.14.2", "lines": ["Mahwi perceived it, raised a fearful cry,", "Then fled the army’s center, bent to fly."]}, {"id": "E10.14.3", "lines": ["Bijan looked forth, beheld his flag, and knew", "That Mahwi from the open fight withdrew."]}, {"id": "E10.14.4", "lines": ["He called Barsam: “From out the center draw", "Your troops aside, and watch the man we saw."]}, {"id": "E10.14.5", "lines": ["Do not let Mahwi shirk the coming fight", "And flee toward Jihun in headlong flight."]}, {"id": "E10.14.6", "lines": ["Ride fast, and never let him out of view;", "We have another course we can pursue.”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.7", "lines": ["Barsam of Chin saw Mahwi’s standard go,", "And drew his troops aside, and was not slow."]}, {"id": "E10.14.8", "lines": ["He rode in haste toward Farab’s distant town,", "With curses on his lips, his face a frown."]}, {"id": "E10.14.9", "lines": ["He found him on Farab’s broad desert track,", "Then pressed his stirrups, charging to attack."]}, {"id": "E10.14.10", "lines": ["They met; he did not strike him with his blade,", "But other feats of fearless strength displayed."]}, {"id": "E10.14.11", "lines": ["He seized his enemy’s belt with iron might,", "Unseated him and hurled him down outright."]}, {"id": "E10.14.12", "lines": ["Dismounting there, he bound him as he planned,", "Then mounted, driving him across that land."]}, {"id": "E10.14.13", "lines": ["His comrades gathered swiftly at his side;", "The news of Mahwi’s capture traveled wide."]}, {"id": "E10.14.14", "lines": ["They said, “Strike off his head with axe today;", "Why take him farther on this weary way?”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.15", "lines": ["He answered, “No; Bijan has not yet heard", "That I have trapped this faithless, evil bird.”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.16", "lines": ["The news reached Bijan: “Mahwi has been caught,", "That slave whose deeds such misery have brought.”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.17", "lines": ["The king-slayer, bound fast in iron chain,", "Was dragged in shame behind the warrior train."]}, {"id": "E10.14.18", "lines": ["When Bijan heard, he laughed in his delight,", "Released from care, his heart once more grew light."]}, {"id": "E10.14.19", "lines": ["They pitched a royal tent upon the sand,", "And dragged the traitor to his lord’s command."]}, {"id": "E10.14.20", "lines": ["The guilty wretch saw Bijan standing near;", "His wits forsook him in his sudden fear."]}, {"id": "E10.14.21", "lines": ["In dread he scattered sand upon his head,", "As one already numbered with the dead."]}, {"id": "E10.14.22", "lines": ["Then Bijan said, “May no man ever own", "A slave whose heart such wickedness has known."]}, {"id": "E10.14.23", "lines": ["Why did you slay that righteous Shah, whose hand", "Held victory, throne, and crown by just command?"]}, {"id": "E10.14.24", "lines": ["A king by ancestry, a Shah by right,", "Anooshirvan’s memory and Iran’s light?”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.25", "lines": ["Mahwi replied, “For one whose deeds are base,", "Death and reproach are fitting, with disgrace."]}, {"id": "E10.14.26", "lines": ["Now strike my neck, and let my guilt be paid;", "Before the gathered ranks my head be laid.”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.27", "lines": ["He feared the vengeance Bijan might prepare:", "To flay him, leaving bleeding flesh laid bare."]}, {"id": "E10.14.28", "lines": ["The warrior knew the secret of his fear,", "And paused before he gave an answer clear."]}, {"id": "E10.14.29", "lines": ["Bijan replied, “I now shall play my part,", "And purge the thirst for vengeance from my heart."]}, {"id": "E10.14.30", "lines": ["With such fine valor, wisdom, judgment shown,", "And such a nature, you desired the throne!”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.31", "lines": ["He struck off Mahwi’s hand with one sword blow,", "And said, “No hand has ever stooped so low.”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.32", "lines": ["The hand cut off, he gave a stern decree:", "“Cut off both feet; here let his station be.”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.33", "lines": ["At Bijan’s word, his ears and nose were shorn;", "Then Bijan mounted, leaving him forlorn."]}, {"id": "E10.14.34", "lines": ["“Upon this heated sand let him remain,", "Until he sleeps in shame,” he told his train."]}, {"id": "E10.14.35", "lines": ["They bound his head and arms with cords pulled tight,", "And cast him down; the horns rang at the sight."]}, {"id": "E10.14.36", "lines": ["A herald went about the ranks to cry", "His warning, passing every tent nearby:"]}, {"id": "E10.14.37", "lines": ["“You servants who have slain your lords, beware;", "Let not vain thoughts disturb you everywhere."]}, {"id": "E10.14.38", "lines": ["Let him who spared not royal life be shown", "The fate of Mahwi; may he find no throne!”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.39", "lines": ["Three young sons of Mahwi were there that day,", "All crowned, with thrones, within his armed array."]}, {"id": "E10.14.40", "lines": ["They kindled fire upon that very ground,", "And burned the father and three sons they found."]}, {"id": "E10.14.41", "lines": ["None of that stock remained; if one should stay,", "Whoever saw him drove the man away."]}, {"id": "E10.14.42", "lines": ["The chiefs cursed all that house in Yazdegard’s name;", "Their hearts sought vengeance for the deed of shame."]}, {"id": "E10.14.43", "lines": ["“A curse on him; let no man fail to cast", "The curse his deeds have earned, from first to last.”"]}, {"id": "E10.14.44", "lines": ["Now Umar’s age would follow; Faith would rise,", "The pulpit serve as throne before men’s eyes."]}]}, {"id": "E11", "title": "The Epilogue", "summary": "32 couplets", "path": "/poem/e11/", "couplets": [{"id": "E11.1", "lines": ["When sixty-five full years had passed me by,", "My thought and toil and pain rose ever high."]}, {"id": "E11.2", "lines": ["I yearned to tell the history of kings;", "My star was slow to grant what Fortune brings."]}, {"id": "E11.3", "lines": ["Well-read Iranians, men of high degree,", "Took copies of my work, but paid no fee."]}, {"id": "E11.4", "lines": ["Those mighty men of old, renowned in name,", "Within this book I gave a lasting fame."]}, {"id": "E11.5", "lines": ["I watched from far, as though I served their will,", "A hired man who waited on them still."]}, {"id": "E11.6", "lines": ["Only their praises came to be my part,", "And while they praised, I bore a broken heart."]}, {"id": "E11.7", "lines": ["Their money bags remained securely tied,", "And hope within my restless heart had died."]}, {"id": "E11.8", "lines": ["Among the nobles, Ali the Dilamite", "Had earned his share, that man of spirit bright."]}, {"id": "E11.9", "lines": ["He kept my work progressing toward its goal,", "That man of wisdom and enlightened soul."]}, {"id": "E11.10", "lines": ["Abu Nasr Warraq, through this book of mine,", "Gained much from nobles of distinguished line."]}, {"id": "E11.11", "lines": ["Husain Kutib, a noble, gave reward;", "He sought no verse for nothing from my hoard."]}, {"id": "E11.12", "lines": ["He furnished food and clothes and silver bright,", "And gold; he gave me feet and wings for flight."]}, {"id": "E11.13", "lines": ["No tax or levy troubled me by day;", "Beneath my quilt at ease I safely lay."]}, {"id": "E11.14", "lines": ["Were not the ruler’s hand so tightly bound,", "Upon a throne my place would then be found."]}, {"id": "E11.15", "lines": ["When seventy-one full years had passed me by,", "Beneath my verse I brought the vaulted sky."]}, {"id": "E11.16", "lines": ["For thirty-five long years, in hope of gold,", "I toiled within this transient earthly hold."]}, {"id": "E11.17", "lines": ["Those thirty-five long years of toil were vain;", "The wind bore all away; I had no gain."]}, {"id": "E11.18", "lines": ["My hopes had vanished with the years gone by;", "Now nearly eighty, worn with age, am I."]}, {"id": "E11.19", "lines": ["In Sapandarmad, on the day of Ard,", "I seal the book and tale of Yazdegard."]}, {"id": "E11.20", "lines": ["In year four hundred since Mohammad’s Flight,", "These final words of this great book I write."]}, {"id": "E11.21", "lines": ["May Mahmud’s throne in lasting glory grow,", "His life stay green, his heart with gladness glow."]}, {"id": "E11.22", "lines": ["His judgment, knowledge, lineage shine as one:", "The lamp of Ajam, and the Arabs’ sun."]}, {"id": "E11.23", "lines": ["I praised him so his praise would ever stay,", "Through all the world, in plain and veiled display."]}, {"id": "E11.24", "lines": ["Much praise from great men came into my store;", "And praise of him increases evermore."]}, {"id": "E11.25", "lines": ["May that wise monarch flourish day by day,", "And may his wishes find a prosperous way."]}, {"id": "E11.26", "lines": ["I leave this book to him, his name to bear;", "Its sixty thousand couplets I declare."]}, {"id": "E11.27", "lines": ["A lofty hall of verse I raised so high,", "No wind or rain can harm it from the sky."]}, {"id": "E11.28", "lines": ["I shall not die; alive in words I stand,", "For seeds of speech I scattered through the land."]}, {"id": "E11.29", "lines": ["All prudent men of counsel, faith, and name", "Will praise me when I leave this mortal frame."]}, {"id": "E11.30", "lines": ["A thousand blessings, praises without end,", "To Mustafa from us may now ascend."]}, {"id": "E11.31", "lines": ["Upon his household, too, let blessings shine;", "For Faith, invoke those blessings, line by line."]}, {"id": "E11.32", "lines": ["The Shahnameh of Ferdowsi is ended."]}]}]}