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The heroes were met on the road with suitable honors, and Khosráu embracing Rustem affectionately, lost no time in asking for his assistance in taking vengeance for the death of Saiáwush.
The reputation of Lohurásp was of the highest order, and it is said that his administration of the affairs of his kingdom was more just and paternal than even that of Kai-khosráu. "The counsel which Khosráu gave me," said he, "was wise and admirable; but I find that I must go beyond him in moderation and clemency to the poor."
The youth appeared with joyous mien, And bounding heart, for life was new; By either host the strife was seen, And strong and fierce the combat grew. Shydah exerted his utmost might, but was unable to move his antagonist from the ground; whilst Khosráu lifted him up without difficulty, and, dashing him on the plain,
Khosráu further interceded; and instead of being sent a captive to Káús, the good old man was set at liberty. When the particulars of this event were described to Afrásiyáb by Pírán-wísah, he was exceedingly sorrowful, and lamented deeply that Kai-khosráu had so successfully effected his escape.
Barzú now took hold of the king's stirrup, and knocked his forehead against it, and drawing his dagger, threatened to put an end to himself, saying, "My blood will be upon thy neck, if thou goest;" and he continued in a strain so eloquent and persuasive that Khosráu relaxed in his determination, and observed to Rustem: "There can be no doubt that Barzú is descended from thee."
He sprang upon him as the lion fierce Springs on the nimble gor, then quickly drew His deadly dagger, and with cruel aim, Thrust the keen weapon through the stripling's heart. Khosráu, immediately after slaying him, ordered the body to be washed with musk and rose-water, and, after burial, a tomb to be raised to his memory.
Great wealth they found, And having sacked the place, Khosráu erected A lofty temple, to commemorate His name and victory there, then back returned Triumphantly to gladden king Káús, Whose heart expanded at the joyous news.
Zál and Rustem went to the palace of the king in a melancholy mood, and Khosráu having heard of their approach, enquired of them why they had left Sístán. They replied that the news of his having relinquished all concern in the affairs of the kingdom had induced them to wait upon him. "I am weary of the troubles of this life," said he composedly, "and anxious to prepare for a future state."
Khosráu and his mother were asleep, but Gíw being awake, and seeing an armed force evidently in pursuit of his party, boldly put on his armor, mounted Behzád, and before the enemy came up, advanced to the charge.
"A persecuted damsel I, Thus the detested tyrant fly, And hastening from impending woes, In happy Persia seek repose; For long as cherished life remains, Pleasure must smile where Khosráu reigns. Thence did I from my home depart, To please and bless a Persian heart." The deception worked effectually on the mind of Tús, and he at once entered into the notion of escorting her to Kai-khosráu.
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