KAI KHUSRAU - 3

Page 22

Khusrau Continued

The Prelude :

In His name Who is Lord of moon and sun, The name revealed by wisdom to the heart, The Lord of being and uprightness - One That brooketh not perverseness on thy part - The Lord of Saturn, Mars, and Sol, from Whom Our gospel are, our hopes, and dread of doom! I know not how to praise Him though in thought I pour my soul. He fashioned space and time; The emmet's foot with proofs of Him is fraught. From yonder circling sun to earthly grime, Bright fire, air, water, all are witnesses, And give thy soul assurance, that He is.

Let it be throe the Maker to revere, Who hath no need of aught, no need of crown And throne, of minister and treasurer, Of less or more, of fortune's smile or frown; Yet, though He needeth naught, His slaves are we, And bow before His bidding and decree.

Since He created wisdom and the mind, Past doubt, and set the heaven and stars on high, In Him supreme the sole Creator find, And Source of happiness and misery, Of night and day, of circling sphere above, Of food and sleep, of anger and of love.

Of Rustam's wondrous deeds there is no scant, His legend in the hearts of all is rife; A crocodile in water, elephant On land, wise, shrewd of heart, a man of strife, Consummate both in war and valiancy, A man of knowledge, wit, and weight was he.

His battle with Kamus I next present In mine own words but based on document, So turn now to the rustic minstrel's lay, Mark what that man world-proven hath to say.

How Khusrau reviled Tus :

The troops with Fariburz, Gudarz, and Giv - The chatterer of hosts - went to Iran In grief with tearful cheeks. When they had reached The road toward Charam and had Kalat Above, the waters of Mayam below, They spake about the conflict with Farud, And all their gain was anguish and remorse. Fear of the Shah filled every heart with pain, For they were guilty and their eyes wept blood. They came before Khusrau with souls abashed, With wounded livers, and as men in fault For having slain their monarch's blameless brother, And yielded crown and signet to the foe; They came with hearts seared and with folded arms, As slaves are wont, before their sovereign. Khusrau regarded them with angry looks; His heart was full of pain, his eyes of tears, And thus he spake to God: "O righteous Judge Thou gayest to me fortune, throne, and prowess, But now I shame before Thee. Thou dost know, Far better than I know, the why and how Of things, or else I should command to set A thousand stakes forthwith upon the open, And Tus and all that carried arms with him Should be impaled. I mourned my father's death, My heart was filled with sorrow, pain, and trouble, And now there is new vengeance for Farud, For I must needs smite off' the head of Tus. I said: 'Avoid Kalat, avoid Charam, Though people should shower drachms upon thy herd, Because Farud is with his mother there. He is a hero of the Kaian race - A warrior! Should he know vile Tus or why The army marched? Of course he would attack, And from the mountain slaughter many chiefs.

Why did inhuman and insensate Tus March in such haste against that hold? Good sooth The Master of the sky no longer favoureth Him and the host. The kindred of Gudarz Fared ill through him. Be he, his elephants, And drums accursed. I gave him robes of honour And gifts, and sent him forth to fight - my brother Away with chief's like Tus son of Naudar! May no such paladins be generals Alas! alas! the son of Siyawush - Farud - with that stout heart, that mace and sword, Who, like his sire, was slain though innocent, Slain by my general and by my troops None know I worse than Tus, and he is ripe For chain and pit. Brainless and veinless too The wretch is as a dog to me." He writhed With stricken liver to avenge his brother And father's blood, dismissed the troops disgraced, Wept his heart's blood, and shut to them - the door Of audience, being wounded to the soul With anguish for Farud. The warriors Went sad and sorry to the court of Rustam, And thus excused themselves: "God willed it so! Who wished to fight Farud? Still when the son. Of Tus was slain the chieftains' heads grew dark At that disgrace and, when his son-in-law Rivniz fell too, misfortune's worst was done. Who knew the name and bearings of Farud, And wished to wound him through our monarch's heart? Plead with the Shah. Perchance he will refrain From vengeance on the host. Was not Rivniz, The son of Kai Kaus, slain grievously . In fight as well - a younger son and warrior, Dear to the father of moon-faced Khusrau? Such is the issue that all battles have, To this a crown, to that a narrow grave! "

How Khusrau pardoned the Iranians :

When Sol had gilt earth's face, and darksome night Was taken in the toils, shouts rose before The palace portal and the peerless Rustam Came to the Shah, and said: "O great Khusrau! Throne, crown, and signet-ring rejoice in thee. The Shah is wroth with Tus and with the host; But pardon their wrong-doing for my sake. When Tus beheld his son and son-in-law Both slaughtered, prudence left his brain and heart, For first, he is not wise but choleric, And next, a son's life is no light concern; So when Rivniz was slain before his face, And that proud cavalier Zarasp withal, No wonder if he blazed. The Shah should not Take vengeance on him. Then again the host Was ill disposed toward thy glorious brother Because he had not visited the Shah. Know that the date when each must die is fixed, And be not grieved hereat. Our spirit passeth, Or else is made to pass. Three hundred spells Will not delay it." Kai Khusrau replied:- O paladin! I sorrowed for this youth, But now thy rede is solace to my soul, Though still I ache at heart." Then Rustam kissed The ground before the monarch of the world. So when the sun had shot its rays on high, And hastened to ascend upon its curve, When it had rent its turquoise robes of gloom, So that its ruddy, shining form showed through, The general, Giv, and other warriors Approached the Shah with blessings, and Tus said:- "Live fortunate till time shall be no more. Be earth the basis of thy crown and throne, And heaven the guardian of thy Grace and fortune. My heart is sorrowful, my liver wounded With pain for my misdeed, my mind is full Of shame, my tongue is all excuse, my soul All fault, I burn as 'twere Akzargashasp In anguish for the pure souls of Farud And of Zarasp. If I am guiltier Than others I am writhing for my deed. When valued with Bahram and with Rivniz Mine own life is not worth a single mite; So if the Shah will cease from wrath with me, And with this noble but offending host, I will go forth to cancel this disgrace, And will exalt our fallen heads anew; I will share all the army's toils myself, Be it to keep my life or lose my head. Henceforth I will not look at throne and crown, My head shall see naught but a helm of Rum." The monarch graciously received these words; His heart grew fresh as roses in the spring. He counselled much with Rustam, with the chiefs And warriors, then sent Tus 'gainst Turan With elephants and shawms and kettledrums. The company dispersed without delay, And Rustam also homeward took his way.

How Khusrau sent Tus to Turan :

When bright Sol showed, and when from night's bent bow Dawn brake, Tus with the great men of the host Came to Khusrau who said: "Trace of this feud Is never lost. Begun by Salm and Tur It had fresh impulse given by Minuchihr, But never was a Shah so shamed as I, Or earth so glutted with his warriors' gore! The hills have girt them with Gudarzians' blood For whom weep bird and fish by land and sea. O'er the Turanians' waste the Iranians' hands And feet and trunks lie scattered! Are your counsels Auspicious? Are ye all heart-stirred to vengeance?" The gallant warriors, with folded arms Before that sunlike and aspiring one, All kissed the ground together - warriors, Such as Ruhham, Gurgin, Gudarz, and Tus, Kharrad and Zanga son of Shawaran, Bizhan and Giv and other men of might. They said: "Well starred, good-hearted Shah who hast The heart withal to pluck out lions' hearts! We all of us are slaves of thine and hang Our heads in reverence, O Shah! before thee, If now the Shah so biddeth we will all Pour out our souls in fight, nor shall he mark Aught ill from us if sun and moon shall lour not." Khusrau then summoned Giv and seated him Upon the throne of greatness, praised him much, Bestowing many a gift and mark of favour, And said: "Thou seekest toil on mine account, But sharest not my treasures. Tus though leader Must not employ the drums and elephants Against thy counsel rashly. Didst not see How in Bahram's case (may his soul rejoice!) Great skill in warfare fashioned for itself A dark, strait dwelling through the quest of fame And ill advice? Brief though our sojourn be Fame should remain behind us, not disgrace:' Khusrau gave money, called the commissaries, Spake much with Tus, and sought a lucky day According to the stars for setting forth. The chieftain Tus then came as general, Received the standard, elephants, and drums, And did obeisance while the soldiers shouted. The earth heaved underneath the chargers' tramp; A dust-cloud gathered from the horses' hoofs; The trumpet's blast went up. What with the mass Of mail and Kawa's flag earth's face all turned To violet. "The sun," thou wouldst have said, "Is quenched, the sky and stars are all asleep." The Shah abode upon the plain with mace And elephant till Tus the general Had passed, who on an elephant outspread A turquoise litter and thus Shahd-ward sped.

The Message of Piran to the Army of Iran :

A cameleer bore blast-like to Piran This message: "I have reached the river Shahd In arms and ready to contend with thee." Piran, on hearing this, was sorely grieved That, 'gainst his will, he needs must pack the loads, And went forth with his chiefs - choice cavaliers And brave - to learn about the Irainian host, How many chiefs, and who, were there with Tus. He drew his troops up on his side the stream, And sent a greeting to the Iranian chief. He said: "I everywhere showed kindliness To Farangis and to the Shah. I cried, And seethed as on fierce fire, for Siyawush; But now the antidote doth bear the bane, I share in all these ills." Tus was distressed, Grieved at the words and sufferings of Piran, And said: "Go to Piran of ardent soul, And say: 'If thou speak'st sooth we have no quarrel. Drop fealty, abandon thy surroundings, And bar this door of fear and road of loss. Go to the Shah alone, he will requite thee, Give thee a royal crown and paladinship. When he recalleth thy good deeds thy pangs Will pain him to the heart. Gudarz and Giv And other chieftains, nobles shrewd of heart, Agree herein."' The envoy went like wind Back to Piran and told what he had heard From Tus and from Gudarz of ardent soul. Piran made answer: "I by night and day I will go over, taking of my kin Those who are wise and list to mine advice, And send them, bag and baggage, to Iran. An honoured head is more than crown and throne." He did not purpose acting in this way, But sought to gain occasion by delay.

How Afrasiyab sent an Army to Piran :

Piran dispatched a camel-post by night To tell Afrasiyab: "Troops have arrived With shawms and tymbals from Iran, commanded By Giv, Gudarz, and Tus, whom I have duped And much advised with. Choose a warrior-host Or else the war will be inglorious. We may uproot the foe and fire their land, Else in their vengeance for prince Siyawush The Iranian army ne'er will rest from strife." Afrasiyab thereat convoked his captains, Told what had chanced, and said: "Prepare for war." Afrasiyab arrayed a power that dimmed The eye of Sol; that host, so great that earth Was hidden, on the tenth day reached Piran, Who having victualled and disposed the troops, And loaded up the baggage, marched in haste, Regarding not his promise, to the Shahd. A scout came in to Tus and said to him:- "Bind thou the drums upon the elephants Because Piran, perceiving downfall nigh, Spake guilefully. We see the tyrant's standard And army drawn up on the river-bank." Tus put his battle in array. They ranged The elephants and tymbals on the plain. The two lines, like two mountains, clashed in fight - The Iranian horsemen and the Turkman troops. The dust-clouds of the hosts so dimmed the sun That fire rose from the stream - the flash of sword, Of dart and javelin - and thou hadst said:- "Earth planted air with tulips! " With the stir Of horsemen with their golden belts, and all The golden helmets and the golden shields, A cloud in hue like sandarach arose, And earth became like ebony with dust. The horsemen's heads beneath the mighty maces Seemed anvils 'neath smiths' hammers. Thou hadst said:- The river is a wine-press running blood, The air is like a reed-bed with the spears!" Then many heads were caught in lasso-coils, Then many an honoured form was cast away. The shroud was mail, the pillow blood and dust; The bosom had been hacked by scimitars. Earth was a cercis-bloom, air ebony; The din of tymbals filled the starry heaven. What though the ambitious man a crown may gain. Or but the battle's surge of blood and dust, Yet from this world of ours depart he must, Whate'er his portion - antidote or bane. I wot not of the end but, this I know, It is a cause for tears to have to go.

How Tus slew Arzhang :

There was a famous Turkman named Arzhang, One whose renown in warfare reached the clouds. He sent the dust up from the battlefield, And challenged the Iranians. Tus from far Saw him and shouted, drew his sword and asked That son of Zira: "What name bearest thou? Who is thy fellow in the Turkman host?" He said: "Arzhang am I, a warrior - A noble Lion who can bide his time. Now will I make the earth quake under thee, And cast thy head upon the field of fight." Tus, hearing but disdaining all reply, Smote with the glittering falchion in his hand That chieftain on the helm, and thou hadst said:- "His body never bore a head at all!" Piran grieved sorely and the Turkman host, And none came forth, but all the warriors And chieftains of Turan drew scimitar And massive mace, and shouted to each other, Those Lions: "Let us charge and make the world Strait to the heart of Us." Then said Human:- "To-day we will prepare. Be not cast down. If any noble of the Irainians Shall come to challenge us we will dispatch A man to fight him and will mark the issue, But not provoke them rashly. What we need Is respite for a day, but when the host Is stirring, and the tymbals sound in camp, Then from beyond the stream be onslaught made With mace in hand if God and fortune aid."

How Human fought with Tus :

Human bestrode and spurred his eagle-steed. Thou wouldst have said: "He is an iron wall, Or Mount Alburz in mail! " He came before The host to fight and grasped a glittering spear. Tus too advanced; earth rang with clarion-blare. "And so from luckless Wisa," he exclaimed, "A miserable Tree like this up-springeth! Hast thou indeed come forth to fight since thou Hast come forth mounted and with spear in hand? By the Shah's life and head I would oppose thee Without my breastplate, mace, and Ruman casque, Just like a pard that clutcheth at its prey Among the mountains. Thou shaft see how heroes Fight if thou venturest." Human replied:- Be not o'er-weening for it is not good. Though fate hath come upon one luckless chief, And by thy hand, hold not the rest in scorn. Arzhang had deemed himself no man at all If matched with me upon the day of battle. But have the Iranian warriors no shame? Doth not the warm blood boil in any breast In that their leader hath to champion them? Have their hands failed to fight? Where are Bizhan And Giv - those noble ones - and where Gudarz, Son of Kishwad, that taker of the world? If thou art paladin why hast thou left The centre for the field? The wise will own not Thy kinship and the sane will hold thee mad. Go, hold up Kiwa's standard; generals Come not to fight in person. Look for one On whom the Shah bestowed a robe of honour, Some warrior in quest of crown and signet, And order him to battle with the Lion, And bring the hand of the high-handed down. Ill would befall this noble host of thine If thou Overt slain by me, thy troops become Abandoned, spiritless, and, if they lived, Discomfited.

Save Rustam son of Zal, And Sam the cavalier, I see no noble Like thee within Iran whose ancestors Were men renowned and Shahs. No need of army If thou wilt fight in person! Go thy way That some aspirant from the host may face me; Besides, if thou wilt list to true advice, Wherein my soul and heart confirm my tongue, The bravest smart when they encounter me." Tus said: "Exalted man! I am the leader, But am withal a horseman of the fray. Thou art a leader of the Turkman troops Thyself! Why then hast thou come on the field? If thy heart will accept advice of mine Seek, 'tis my counsel, for a league with me. Come with the noble captain of thy host Before the Shah because, while one surviveth, These troops will rest no jot from this revenge. Give not thyself thus madly to the wind, And may my counsel ne'er recur to thee. Leave those who should be slain to fight with us, For not one guilty shall escape our vengeance, So act the wise man's part. The Shah directed:- 'Harm not Piran. He is my foster-sire, Experienced, and my friend. Strive not with him Unjustly, wantonly, and fee that he Hear throe advice.'" Human said: "Right or wrong, When bidden by a king of glorious race, We must go forth: we have no remedy, But must surrender all our heart to him. Piran himself desireth not this strife, For he is noble, good, and generous." While Tus was parleying, the face of Giv Resembled sandarach, he left the host Like wind, "O Tus of glorious race!" he cried, "A wily Turkman with his lips afoam Hath come between the lines; why should he speak So long with thee apart? Seek not the door Of peace, speak only with thy scimitar." Human, on hearing, raged and said to Giv Of sleepless fortune: "Wretchedest of all The free! perish Gudarz son of Kishwad Upon the day of battle at Laidan Thou sawest me with Indian sword in hand Where not one of his seed survived that read not The inscription thereupon. For thee, thy fortune Is like the face of Élhriman, and mourning Is ever in thy house. If Tus slay me Men still will use the mace and kettledrum. Piran is living and Afrasiyab, Who will avenge me promptly, but if Tus Shall perish by my hand none of his troops Will reach Iran. Bewail thy brothers' pangs, Why railest thou at Tus son of Naudar?" " What wrath is this?" said Tus, "I am thy foe; Come let us wheel about, begin the encounter, And bend our brows in battle." Then Human:- "All heads beneath a crown or helm must die. Since death must come 'tis best upon the field, And by the hand of some skilled cavalier, A leader, prince, and ardent warrior." Then, grasping each his massive mace, they charged. Earth reeled, day darkened, and a dust-cloud gathered Above the scene of strife. Thou wouldst have said:- "The night hath come on them by day, the sun - The lustre of the world - is blotted out!" Those mighty maces clashed and bent like bows Of Chach, the ring of steel rose to the sky, The wind of that contention reached the Shahd! Thou wouldst have said: "Stone heads are in those helms, Those warriors' blows have blackened death's own face!" They took in hand their Indian scimitars, And sent sparks streaming out of stone and steel Till with the chieftains' might the trenchant blades First bent, then shivered. Dust-smirched and athirst Each warrior clutched the other's leathern belt, And pressed with all his weight. upon the stirrups, But neither came to dust.

Human's belt snapped. He leapt upon a fresh steed while Tus took His quiver, strung his bow, and set thereon A poplar arrow. He began to shower His shafts upon his noble foe and wheeled To left and right as horsemen use to do. The points of steel and eagle-plumes bedimmed The mid-day sun, the world became as 'twere Night's second watch, its face like diamonds. Pierced by a poplar shaft Human's steed fell; He raised his shield to save his face and head. On seeing him afoot upon the field, And holding not his own, the Turkman chiefs Brought him a noble mount, but when Human Had seated him upon the bark-lined saddle, With Indian sword in hand, the men of name And warriors all drew near to him and said:- "It groweth dark, there is no time, and strife Is over for the day. May evil eyes Be far from thee and fighting end in feast." Hurnan the warrior turned his rein (Tus raising His own lance to him), left the field, and sought Piran. A shout rose from the Turkman host "How didst thou fare when face to face with Tus, O warrior? Our hearts were full for thee! God only knoweth what we felt! " That Lion Replied: "O brave and veteran warriors! The day will bring us triumph, we shall take Yon shining flag, all joy will be your portion, And I shall have the stars of heaven for mine." Tus for his part was shouting through the night Till cock-crow: "Is Human the man for me? A raging lion should my foeman be."

How the Iranians and Turainians fought the second Time :

Now when high heaven had made its Crown of Jet, And flung Pastilles on Lapislazuli, The pickets hurried forth on every side, And set the watch around the camps, but when Sol showed in Cancer, and the world became Fair as a Ruman's face, from both the camps The sound of tymbals rose, the world was filled With the blare of clarions, air was thick with flags, Which gleamed red, yellow, black, and violet, The warriors bared their weapons, and rode forth To battle. Thou hadst said: "Heaven, earth, and time Don iron," while the radiant sun was veiled By dust of caracoling cavaliers, And, what with neigh of steeds and din of drums, Heaven kissed the earth. Human the chieftain wheeled Before the ranks, a shining dart in hand, And cried: "When I shall raise the battle-shout, Urge on my charger and seethe up with rage, Then draw ye forth your falchions as one man, And hold your shields of Chin above your heads. See nothing but your horses' crests and reins, I want no bow, I want no lance's point, But armed with sword and club and massive mace, As is the use and wont of warriors, Throw down your reins upon your horses' necks, And give and take the buffets as they come." This said, the gallant horseman lion-like Went to Piran: "O paladin!" he cried, "Unlock the weapons of our warriors, Keep not dinars within the treasury, And hoard not arms. If we prevail to-day Thy heart shall pluck the fruit of favouring stars." On his side Tus arrayed his host as 'twere The eye of chanticleer. The warriors blessed him, And hailed him as the paladin of earth, Who triumphed in the battle, and whose valour Sent dust up from Human.

Then to Gudarz, Son of Kishw tid, said Tus: "Let all wot well That if we march forth, and our foes prevail, Our trust must be in God, not in ourselves; He may assist us, else the day is lost. At present let the chief's with golden boots Remain with Kawa's standard. Let none quit The mountain; this is not the day and season For strife and stir. Good Booth! the enemy Out-number us two hundred times or more!" Gudarz replied: "If God will but avert Our evil day the fact of more or less hnporteth not. Daunt not the Iranians, For if the sky turn over us for ill To wait is no avail. Array the host; Dash not our souls with what may be." So Tus, The chieftain, put the battle in array - Men, drums, and elephants of war; the footmen Went with the baggage to the heights, Gudarz Was on the right, Ruhham shared with Gurgin The left, the troops were ranked, anon the sky Shook with the roar of drum and clarion, The heart of circling heaven was rent, the sun Was choked with dust, none saw the ground beneath him, The murky clouds rained showers of diamonds, Fire flashed from helm and sword, the spear-heads gleamed, And massive maces whirled. Thou wouldst have said:- "The air is mace and iron, and the earth Horseshoes and mail." The plains and dales ran blood, And swords were lamps that lit a world of night. No one knew head from foot, such was the din Of drum and clarion! Tus said to Gudarz:- "Night cometh and the astrologer bath told me:- 'To-day until the night's third watch is passed The warriors from their scimitars will pour Blood on the field, like rain from some dark cloud; But victory, I fear me, in the end Will rest with our revengeful foes.'" Shidush, Ruhham, Giv, Gustaham, Kharrad, Farhad, And brave Barzin came forth between the hosts, Came liver-wounded, eager for revenge, Like troops of divs upon a murky night, While in all quarters din assailed the clouds. Human on his side mountain-huge led forth His army troop on troop, and none could tell, Amid the mass of maces, mallets, swords, And spears, the stirrups from the reins. He said:- "Our work to-day must not be like the fight Of yesterday, but we must sweep the earth Of foemen lest they seek revenge hereafter:" Then Tus advanced with foot-men, elephants, And kettledrums, while spear-men, pavisers, And javelin-men drew up before the horse-men. "Leave not your posts," he said, "and hold your shields And spears in front of you, and we will see The massive mace-play of their chivalry."

How the Turanians used Sorcery against the Host of Iran :

Among the Turkmans there was one Bazur By name, adept in magic, versed in guile. And sorcery, and learned in the tongues Of Chin and ancient Persia. To that warlock Piran said: "Scale the mountain-top and send Snow, cold, and blast upon the Iranians." That sorcerer sped thither, and forthwith Came snow and storm. The Iranian spearmen's hands Failed in the snow and stress. Amid the tumult And icy blast the warriors' war-cry rose, And arrows rained. "Let all the army charge," Piran bade. "While their hands freeze to their spears None can show prowess." With a shout Humdn Charged like a lusty div. They slaughtered so That 'twixt the lines there was a sea of gore, The vales and wastes were filled with snow and blood, The horsemen of Iran were overthrown, Till corpses left no room to wheel; the ground Was blocked by snow and fallen. Tus the leader And other chiefs cried bitterly to heaven:- "O Higher than all knowledge, sense, and reason, Not at, or in, but everywhere! we all Are Thy transgressing slaves and in our straits Appeal to Thee, for Thou wilt help the helpless, And art the Lord of fire and icy blast. Deliver us from this excessive cold; We look for aid to Thee and Thee alone." A sage approached Ruhham and showed the height Where bold Bazur was stationed with his spells. Ruhham wheeled round and quitting field and host, And girding up his mail-skirts to his waist, Clomb to the mountain-top. The warlock saw him, And, grasping a steel mace of Chin, advanced To fight. Ruhham, approaching, quickly drew His trenchant scimitar and hacked away The warlock's hand. Like Doomsday came a blast, And swept the murk from heaven. Staying thus The sorcerer's hand the brave Ruhham descended, Regained the plain, and mounted while the air Resumed its azure vault and radiant sun. Ruhham said to his sire: "'Twas sorcerer's work, And how he played the mischief as we fought!" The Shah's troops saw the field a sea oi' blood Strewn with Iranian heads and headless trunks. Then spake Gudarz to Us: "No need have we For elephant or drum-beat. Let us all Draw sword and charge, and slay or else be slain. Good Booth: our time is coming to an end; This is no day for lasso, shaft, or bow." Tus said: "O thou experienced veteran! The sky is ridded of that icy blast.

Why should our heads be scattered to the winds, Now that the Helper giveth Grace and strength? Expose not thou thyself, for in this strife Our warriors will avail to do our will. Go not to meet thy fate or recklessly Advance against our foes but tarry thou With Kaiwa's standard at the army's centre, And blue steel sword in hand. Bizhan and Giv Together lead the right; upon the left Is Gustaham; Ruhham is with Shidush Before the lines; GurAza's lips are foaming For vengeance. If I shall be slain, retreat Back to the Shah, but death is nobler far For me than shame and every foeman's jeers.' Such is the world, all anguish and all woe Seek not addition if thou canst forbear, For that will bite thee some day and will ne'er Prolong existence for thee here below. Again arose the blast of clarions, The clangour of the gongs and Indian bells. What with the din of warlike cavaliers, The gleam of sword and crash of battle-ax, What with darts, maces, shafts, and javelins, The earth became as 'twere a sea of pitch. The plain was filled with trunkless heads and arms, The crashing of the maces filled all ears, But, since the face of cruel fortune loured The Iranian warriors showed the foe their backs. Then Tus, Gudarz, and gallant Giv, Shidush, Bizhan, and lion-like Ruhham all took Their lives in hand and went in quest of fame Before the embattled lines. All those with Tus, The nobles and the chiefs, poured out their blood Before the host, but those behind them fled. Then said an archmage to that warrior-chief:- "The army is no longer at thy back The foe must not surround thee and destroy Both host and general." Tus said to Giv:- "Our soldiers' brains and wisdom are no mates Since they have left us thus, and in their folly Turned from the fight; go thou and rally them; Protest our foemen's jeers, our monarch's shame." Giv went; the host returned; the plain and desert Seemed filled with slain. Then Tus addressed the captains:- This This is a struggle and a strife of chiefs But since the cheek of day is darkling now, And all the land is like a sea of blood, Seek we a resting-place if night can rest. Our slain perchance a bed of sand may have, And coverlet of earth by way of grave."

How the Iranians retreated to Mount Hamawan :

The Irainians drew back with heads abashed And livers wounded for their friends, and when The moon rose o'er the mountains as it were A king triumphant on his turquoise throne, Piran the chieftain called his warriors, And said: "Not many of the foe remain, And, when the Topaz Sea shall dash its waves Upon the Realm of Lapislazuli, I will destroy those that survive and make The Shah's heart writhe." The troops went off rejoicing, And all the night before the tent-enclosure Sat sleepless through the sounds of harp and rebeck; But for their part the Iranians mourned, the sires Lamented for their sons, the killed and wounded Hid all the plain, earth ran with great men's blood. To right and left the field was strewn with hands And feet unsortable. All night men raised Their stricken friends, bound up and stitched their wounds, Left strangers to their fate, and burned the slain. Full many of the kindred of Gudarz Were hurt or killed or captive. At the news He wailed, earth shook beneath the Iranians' cries, The chiefs all rent their raiment, he himself Cast dust upon his head, exclaiming: "None With hoary head bath seen such ills as mine! Why must I still survive with my white hairs Now that so many of my sons are laid In dust? Since that dark day when I was born I have not doffed my tunic. When I went With heroes and my cavaliers to war My grandsons and my sons supported me, But none of them surviveth our first fight Upon Turanian soil! May be my sun Was once for all extinguished with Bahrdm, And hence I see so many chieftains slain." Tus, hearing of Gudarz, wept tears of blood, And turned as pale as sandarach. He raised A bitter Magian cry: "Had not Naudar, That holy man," he said, "set in life's garth My feet and roots then travail, pain, and grief, Woe for the dead and anguish in the strife, Had ne'er been mine, for since I girt my loins My heart hath oft been pierced though I survive. Now where there is a pit inter the slain, Restore each trunk its head, and bear the baggage Toward Mount Hamawan. Take all the army, The tents, and tent-enclosures to the mountain. We will dispatch the Shah a camel-post; His heart will burn and he will send us troops. I purposed when I sent the cavalier To carry news of us before the battle, That Kai Khusrau should send the son of Zal To lead the reinforcements to the field." He loaded up and, thinking of the slain With anguish, called his men to horse again.

How the Host of Turan beleaguered Mount Hanaawan :

Now when the bright sun showed its crown, and strewed The Ivory Throne with Camphor, Tus, good Booth! What while the foe were sleeping with fatigue, Had marched ten leagues, and fared thus day and night With heart all sorrow and unbroken fast. He reached Mount Hamawan and ranked his troops Upon its outskirts. Every eye was bloodshot, Their hearts were seared, their souls like ravens' plumes With anguish. Then spake Tus to Giv and said:- "O full of wisdom and illustrious chief! For three days we have marched with neither food Nor sleep! Come eat a little and repose At ease without thy mail; Piran no doubt Will follow us anon intent on fight. Go to the mount thyself, and leave behind The freshest of our soldiers with Bizhan:' Giv bare the wounded, weary of the world And sick of life, up to the mountain-hold, And chose the freshest of his troops for duty. "This mountain-top," he said, "must be our home. We must recruit." The outpost-guards descended To hold the approaches that no foe might pass, And, what with challenges and sound of gongs, Thou wouldst have said: "The stones and rocks cry out!" Now when the sun rose o'er the mountain-tops The Turkmans' hearts were full of eagerness. A sound rose from Pirain's pavilion As of an earthquake. He led forth the host Like fire, and told Human: "The contest surely Will soon be over. All their cavaliers Are slain or, being wounded, cannot fight." He beat the drums; a shout rose from the waste; He led in person. When they reached the field They only found a camp without an army, And one who went to spy came to Piran, And said: "There is not an Iranian here! " A shout of triumph rose, the troops awaited The orders of Piran who thus addressed The wise men: "Sages famed and worshipful! What shall we do now that our foes have fled?" The horsemen of the host, both old and young, Wroth with the paladin, exclaimed: "The Iranians Have fled defeated, and the battlefield Is full of dust and blood! This is no time To fear them. We should follow up the foe. Strange if thou partest with thy wits and wisdom The fugitive from wind plunged into water, And we had better hasten than delay." Piran replied: "In war the foot of haste Is feebler than delay's.

A sea-like host Is gathering before Afrasiyab; Let us delay till that great power with all' Its warriors and fighting-men shall come; Then will we leave none living in Iran Such is the counsel of the wise. Enough. Human said to Piran: "O paladin! Vex not thy soul so much on this account. A host - all paladins and cavaliers, Brave men who wield the lasso and the sword - Have left their ground, their tents, and tent-enclosures, Abandoned all and fled. Be sure of this, That they were forced to flee and once for all Show us their backs. We will not let them reach Khusrau and muster at his court afresh; Then from Zabulistan will Rustam march Upon us, this delay cause fearful loss. Now is the time for me to fall on them, And put in practice ruse and artifice. We have the certainty of laying hands Upon Gudarz and Tus the general, The royal standard, elephants, and drums Shall we do better by delaying here?" Piran replied: "Be still thus shrewd and ardent. So do because thy star and rede are good, And heaven's vault is not so high as thou." He set forth with his army in pursuit, And bade Lahhak: "Now tarry not but ply The rein with ten score cavaliers and loose not The girdle from thy loins till thou bast seen Where the Irzinians are." He went like wind, And took no thought of rest and food. At midnight The Irinian outpost-guards caught sight of him Upon the dusky plain, and from the mountain Rose shout and sound of gong. 'Twas not the time, He saw, to tarry, went back to Piran, And gave him tidings of the Iranian host "'Tis on Mount Hamawan with front well guarded." Piran said to Human: "Ply rein and stirrup In haste, take with thee cavaliers enough, Take nobles, warriors, and men of name, For with their flag and troops the Irainians Have taken refuge on Mount Hamawan. This war involveth further toil, so sharpen Thy wits to find a remedy; if thou Canst capture Kaiwa's legacy - his standard - Then daylight will be darkened to our foes.

If thou prevailest cleave the flag and staff To pieces with thy trenchant scimitar. Lo, I will follow after thee like wind, And dally not." Human chose thirty thousand Turanian horse with shields and scimitars. Now, when the shining sun displayed the face That filleth earth with love, that army's dust Appeared afar and from the look-out rose The watchman's shout: "An army from Turan Appeareth! Upward to the darksorne clouds Its dust ascendeth!" Tus, on hearing this, Assumed his mail, rose din of trump and drum, And all the Iranian chivalry in mass Ranged on the mountain's foot. Whenas Human Beheld that mighty army brandishing Sword, mace, and spear, and raging like fierce lions With Kawa's standard in their midst, he shouted Thus to Gudarz and Tus: "Ye left Iran With elephants and drums to be avenged Upon Turan and to invade our coasts; , Now to the mountain have ye fled like game, In utter rout and all fordone with fight! Feel ye no shame hereat and no disgrace? Are food and rest and sleep in rocks and stones? To-morrow, when the sun shall top the hills, Will I turn this thy stronghold to a sea. Will bring thee from this lofty mountain down, Will make thy hands fast in the lasso's coils, And send thee to Afrasiyab, deprived Of provand, rest, and sleep, and thou shaft know That this thy shift is but a shiftless one, And one to be deplored." He sent Piran A camel-post full speed. "What sort of fight Did we expect?" he said. "Our thoughts were other, And we made ready to attack the foe, But all the mount is troops and kettledrums, The standards wave behind Gudarz and Tus! Take. order that as soon as bright day shineth, And when the world's Light showeth in the sky, Thou mayst be here with troops in war-array, And make the plain's face dark with hosts of men.' The message roused Piran; no time was lost; That night he marched on with a sea-like host.

How Piran went in Pursuit of the Iranians to Mount Hamawan :

When Sol, aweary of its veil of gloom, Had bursten through it and come forth, Piran; The leader, reached Mount Hamawan, and earth Was hidden by the dust of troops. "Abide," Thus said he to Human, "here where thou art; Set not the troops in motion for a while. I will hold parley with the Iranian leader, And say: 'Why hast thou set up Kawa's standard?' Who told him of Mount Hamiwan and now When there what hopeth he?" In hate and vengeance He came anear the Iranian host and cried:- "Illustrious Tus, the lord of elephant, Of mace and kettledrum! five months have passed Since thou provokedst war, and on the field The noblest kinsmen of Gudarz lie headless, While thou hast fled, thy soldiers panting after, And like a mountain-sheep hast taken refuge, Full of revenge and rancour, in the heights! But thou wilt surely come within the toils:' Exalted Tus replied: "I mock thy falsehoods. Thou didst set wreak afoot among the mighty Throughout the world for Siyawush. Hast thou No shame of thy vain words? Hot though they be They will not bring me to those toils of throe. Ne'er may the world possess a paladin Like thee among the men of might and name. Thou by an oath didst ruin Siyawush, And wreck earth with his blood, thou madest him Stay in Turan; now war and vengeance stay In earth through him. Alas! for that great prince And noble man whose face once gladdened all Thou by this practice, such deceit and lies, Wilt gain no lustre in a true man's sight. We could not forage on the battlefield, And therefore have I marched to Hamawan. News now hath reached the monarch of the world, Who with his mighty men will come anon. The great men of the host have gathered - Zal And Rustam of the elephantine form; And when the Shah is fairly on the march I will not leave Turan field, fell, or crop. Since thou art here behold a task for men This is no time for ruse and ambuscade." Piran on that sent forward troops to seize The approaches, and the army mountain-like Moved, troop on troop, upon that mountain-skirt. Piran, when thus the foemen's foraging Was straitened, laid his plans. " We," said Human, "Must get possession of the mountain's foot, And I will deal so that the Iranians Shall never gird themselves for vengeance more." Piran replied: "The wind is in our face, And none would think of fighting with it so; But as they have not room for foraging, And nobody would guard a barren rock, They will no longer heed their general; With warlike eyes grown dim the troops will come To seek not fight but quarter; 'tis a day For grace and not for setting in array."

How the Iranians made a Night-attack :

Gudarz and Tus suspected this; the chiefs Were in dismay. Said old Gudarz to Tus "We must fight now. If we have three days' provand We have not more, and not one road is open We have no tents, no huts, no baggage-train, And this great host will starve! So, when the sun Is wan of face and night's dark veil is seen, Choose we brave cavaliers, descend the heights, And try our fortune in a night-attack, To perish one by one, or else to gain The hero's crown. Such is the end of battles! One hath the dust, another rank and glory:' Tus hearkened to Gudarz; his heart was full Of pain and of the ancient feud. He bode Till night appeared. The sun set; all was dark. When one watch passed, and men had fallen silent, Tus made him ready, called the men of action, Gave one wing to Bizhan, one to Shidush And bold Kharrad; the glorious Hag he gave To Gustaham with much advice and counsel, Then, shouldering with Giv, Ruhham, and others The massive mace, made for Piran and shocked Like fire the Turkman centre. All the field Grew like a sea of blood, a mighty shout Rose from the host, the standard of Piran Was cloven, and his troops were panic-stricken. Human, when he had heard that cry, bestrode His Arab black, came up, saw many slain, And many turning from the fight dismayed, Wept tears of blood upon his breast, and shouted:- "Was there no outpost here? Had ye no stomach For fight? We are three hundred to their one; It is ill sleeping on the field of battle! He! out with sword and mace, and up with shield Of Chin. Now that the moon o'er yonder height Is drawing forth its sword, cut off the foe On every side and let none, combatant Or laggard, 'scape." Arose the clarions' blast, The warriors pressed forward, and surrounded The Iranian cavaliers like savage lions. Sparks flashed from helm and sword: thou wouldst have said:- The The sky is raining maces from the clouds!" Night, scimitars, and dust concealed the stars And shining moon. Thou'dst said: "The Iranians Are walled by coats of mail and in a murk As of a sea of pitch! " Then to his men Human exclaimed: "Enough! slay not the chiefs; Bring me them captive and not arrow-pierced." They shouted back: "Their plight is hopeless now. Lay on, lay on with mace and javelin, And crown these chieftains' heads with crowns of blood." Then Tus said to Ruhham and Giv: "Good Booth! Our lives are but a jest! Unless the Almighty Shall save our souls and bodies from this scath We are but poised upon an eagle's wings, Or struggling in the waters of the deep!" Like savage lions leaping from their lairs They charged together, while the sound of drum And pipe and clang of Indian bells and gongs Rose from the foe, men could not see their reins, The horses' crests, or spear-points at their eyes. "Ye have no room," exclaimed Hu man, "for fight Or flight, and evil fortune Brave you forth, That ill might reach the guilty." 'Mid such strife Abode that warrior - three with paltry powers! Much thought they then of Rustam, everywhere The prowest in the fray, and of Shidush, Bizhan, and Gustaham, of great and small; "Good Booth! " said they, "one of the Iranian host Would help us here! We came not to a fight, But madly to the maw of crocodiles! Woe to the throne and portal of the Shah, For they will capture us anon! Great Rustam And Zal are in Zabulistan! Iran Will be destroyed! " The din of mace and drum Reached the Iranian host, and Giv and Tus Returned not! Said Shidush and Gustaham, The Lion: "Tus is long engaged!" Guraza Said to Bizhan: "Our leader's task is long! " Anon the din of drums rose from the plain, Air turned pitch-dark and earth to ebony.

The warriors made toward the voice of Tus. The field ran blood. As they came up behind All drew their massive maces. Tus, aware That succour had arrived, roared tymbal-like, Loosed rein, and pressed his stirrups, for he felt His fortune rising, while Ruhham and Giv, Cheered by the voice of brave Bizhan, became Like lions. Thus they fought till break of day, Until the world's Light shone above the mountains, Then they recalled the host and drew it off Toward the rocky heights. The chieftain Tus Harangued the troops: "From set of sun to drum-beat Far from the noble be the evil eye, And may our fighting end in festival. I never heard of warriors displaying Such gallantry as I have seen in you. My first prayer is that Holy God will keep Afar from us the eyes of evil ones. He is my refuge evermore and He Will take you out of this. I trust withal In Him that presently and swift as smoke An army may come up to our support. Assuredly my speedy camel-post Hath reached ere now the monarch of the world. My letter will inflame his heart anew, The elephantine chief will come to aid us, And with a noble company of Lions. We shall return in triumph, well content, And eager to behold Khusrau again. We will report to that triumphant world-king All that hath passed in public and in private, And through his kindness and his satisfaction Obtain, each one of us, the fruits of fortune." Both hosts ceased fighting, breathed themselves, and left The battle drawn. On both sides scouts advanced Upon that plain of valiant warriors. Human came forth, saw corpses block the road, And thus addressed Piran: "Withdraw to-day; The battle hath not answered our desires, But when our warriors, approvers horsemen, And men have rested I will make a fight Such as the sun and moon ne'er saw." They went, Their converse done, each on his schemes intent.

How Kai Klausrau had Tidings of his Host :

News reached Khusrau: "Piran hath gained the day, Tus hath retired upon Mount Hamawan, And many a chieftain of the host is missing. The portal of the palace of Gudarz, Son of Kishwdd, is void of men of war And chiefs. The very stars are wailing them, The rose no longer groweth in the garden, The world through them is filled with dust and blood, And Tus' high star hath fallen! " Kai Khusrau, The famous, heard, and his heart quaked. He bade The elephantine Rustam come to court, And with his host. The sages and the archmages, Famed and experienced of Iran, all came; Khusrau, the chief of chieftains, loosed his tongue, Told how the host had fought, and said to Rustam:- "Exalted one' our ancient state, I fear, Is tottering, whereat my heart is full Of dread. Thou fosterest the crown and throne, World-ruling fortune hath its light from thee, The heart of heaven is on thy sabre's point, And under thee are sky and time and earth. Thou didst dig out the White Div's heart and brain The age's hopes are based upon thy love, Earth is the servant of thy charger's dust, And time to thee is like a loving mother. The sun is set a-burning by thy sword, And Venus weepeth at that mace of throe. Thy plumed and pointed shafts make lions weary Of fighting with thee on their day of bale. Since thou hast been a man and worn a helm No foe hath cast his eye upon Iran. Now Tus, Gudarz, and Giv and other chiefs, With many of the warriors of this land, Have with full hearts and eyes that flowed with tears Fled from the soldiers of Afrasiyab. Full many of the kindred of Gudarz Fell on the day of fight and sleep in dust. Those of the army that escaped with life Are broken-hearted on Mount Hamawan; Their heads are lifted heavenward; they pray The Almighty, who is Lord of time and place, That elephantine Rustam may perchance Come to them in God's strength at my command. As I perused the letter in the night I shed my heart's blood freely on my cheeks.

I told the thing to no one for three days Save only unto God the Succourer, But now, because the matter bath surpassed All bounds, my heart is full of care therefor. Thou art the hope of host and general Mayst thou be sound in health and bright in mind; May thy head flourish and thy heart rejoice, Be thy pure person free from hurt of foe. Ask me for plenty of whate'er thou wilt, Of steeds, of arms, of treasure, and of troops. Go with good counsels and a joyful heart So great a work must not be slackly done." The hero answered: "May the signet-ring And crown ne'er lack thee. Heaven remembereth not A king like thee for Grace, for stature, justice, And rede. Khusrau bath heard that ever since Kubad assumed the imperial diadem I have been girded in Iranian quarrels, And have not sat at rest a single day. Mine have been waste, gloom, lion, elephant, Enchanters, lusty dragons, mighty men Both of Turan and of Mazandaran, Dark nights, and massive maces, and withal Long journeyings and thirsts, for I preferred The door of travail to the stead of ease. So many toils and hardships have I seen That I have never asked a day of pleasure. Thou art the world's king, and a slave am I Grieve for the slain, but let thy foes look wan. With belted waist will I draw near to Tus, And gird me to avenge the Iranians, For liver-wounded have I been and girt With mourning for the scions of Gudarz." When Kai Khusrau heard Rustam's words he wept, And said: "Without thee I desire not life, Or majesty or crown or royal throne. Now be the welkin in thy lasso's noose, And crowned heads in thy bonds." The treasurer Unlocked the royal hoard of jewels, crowns, Dinars, helms, lassos, bows, and belts, oped too The sacks of drachms. The Shah gave all to Rustam, Thus saying: "O illustrious warrior! Go with the mace-men of Zabulistan, And mighty men and warriors of Kabul, Swift as the blast, not tarrying thyself Or bidding others tarry. From the host Choose thirty thousand swordsmen dight for war, And give to Fariburz son of Kaus Some troops to go on first and seek revenge." The peerless Rustam kissed the ground and said:- "The bridle and the stirrups are my mates. We will urge on the chiefs; far be repose And idleness from us." He paid the troops, Went forth upon the plain, prepared for war, And said to Fariburz: "Lead forth at dawn, Conduct the van, and sleep not day or night Until thou come to Tus the general. Say to him: 'Risk not fight, use guile, gain time, And be not rash. Lo! like a blast I come, Not dallying upon the road. Gurgin, Son of Milad, approved in war, will know.

How Fariburz asked to Wife Faranflis, the Mother of Kai Khusrau :

"O warrior, distributor of crowns, Lord of the breastplate, battle-ax, and Rakhsh! " Said Fariburz, "I have a secret wish That I can tell to no one in the world Except to thee, O paladin of earth, Who well deservest ring and crown and signet, And art the stay and refuge of the host! In thee the warriors exalt their helms. Know great one of Ira,n! and may God bless thee, That I and noble Siyawush were brothers, rind one in blood. 'Tis fit that I should take His widow as my wife, exalted chief! Urge this upon the Shah, and thou wilt set A crown upon my head." Then Rustam answered:- "'Tis throe to bid. I will achieve thy wish." The elephantine chief went in and said:- O O famed Khusrau! I have a thing to ask That will exalt my head above the moon, And I will ask it with the monarch's leave, For God approveth. Love and justice reach All men through thee, twin-visaged like the sky. Now Fariburz among the chiefs and princes Hath not a peer; withal for rede and prowess I do not see his match, and he desireth This of the Shah - the place of Siyawush, So that, when he is marching to avenge His brother's blood, the guardian of his house And wealth, the confidant in all his cares, May be the daughter of Afrasiyab, None else, they twain to be as sun and moon." Khusrau on hearing gave consent and said:- O famous man! the feet of fortune trample All that reject thy counsel. Naught but good Will come from words of throe. Live ever glorious! I cannot urge this, as thou know'st. Such speech To her would be misplaced, but I will give My mother, if she will consent to listen, The counsels most conformable with wisdom." They went together to the moonlike dame - The peerless Rustam and benignant Shah, Who said to her: "Thou memory of my sire, In good and ill my refuge! I may govern, But thou art Shah to me.

Thou know'st the toil And travail of the army in this war, How many of our mighty men have perished In battle with furan! I mean to send A host with Rustam son of Zal as chief, While Fariburz will lead the van, and Rustam Himself be champion. He would have thee be The wife of Fariburz. What is thy pleasure Therein? Be greatness and all good thy mates." On hearing this she thought about old times, Distressed and vexed at heart; at length in tears She said: "I blame not Rustam; if I did It would be misplaced now, for only heaven Can say him nay when he requesteth aught." Then Rustam said to her: "O dame of dames, Extolled for spotless worth! Oh! may thy foes All perish! Thou, may be, wilt hear my counsel. Thou knowest that a woman cannot rest Without a spouse, the young without the young, And best of all a mate of Kaian race, For man is for the woman's sake, and she Is far more eager than her spouse for her. Victorious Fariburz son of Kaus, Fit for the crown, the lustre of the throne, The brother and the peer of Siyawush, Is ruler of the more part of Iran; The peopled land and desert both are his. By leave, advice, and order of the Shah Do I approve thee as the prince's spouse. What sayest thou? Is he approved by thee? Doth Fariburz appear a fitting mate? Thou wilt do well to hearken to my words Heed what I tell thee and the Shah's advice." The Shah of ladies held her peace awhile In grief, ashamed to speak before her son, Then sighing deeply answered Rustam thus:- "O full of prowess, leader of the folk Although there is none like him in Iran He cannot take the place of Siyawush; Yet is my tongue, as thou mayst say, in fetters By reason of thy words, O paladin! What doth the famous monarch now command? I must be girded to perform his will." Thus, blushing like the roses in the spring, The monarch's mother gave consent. The matter, Since Rustam was so instant; was soon sped They called the archmages and drew up the contract. Then Fariburz became Shah's sire-in-law, And being franked by Kai Khusrau and Rustam Increased his quality and dignity, And gained a robe of honour and new crown. Three days prepared, the fourth achieved, the business, Then Rustam with his gallant warriors Fared toward the plain, while Fariburz with troops Went in advance, resplendent as a star In heaven. Arose the din of clarions, And matchless Rustam led his army forth. The Shah, the world-lord, with his mind all care, Fared with him for two leagues, while Rustam turned Two stages into one upon his way, And rested not at all by night or day.

How Tus saw Siyawush in a Dream :

One night, about the hour of drum-beat, Tus, Heart-seared and full of trouble, slept and dreamed That from the deep a radiant lustre rose About an ivory throne, and Siyawush Thereon with Grace and crown, with smiling lips And tongue fair-spoken, turned a sun-like face Upon him. "stay the Iranians here," he said, "For thou shall conquer in the fight. Lament not The kindred of Gudarz, for there is here A rosary all new, and we will quaff; How long we wot not, underneath its blooms." With joyful heart released from pain and grief Tus woke. Then to Gudarz: "World-paladin! I have beheld a vision in my sleep! Take note that Rustam like a rushing wind Will come anon!" He bade the pipes to sound, The troops upon the mountain left their posts, The warriors of Iran girt up their loins, And set up Kawa's standard, while Piran Upon the other side led forth his powers; The dust-clouds dimmed the sun; its eye was dazed By warriors' shouts and by the rain of arrows. The two hosts met, but not a champion showed Before the lines. Human said to Piran:- "We must attack. Why hesitate? The troops Are not out hunting. Man and beast bear weight." Piran said: "Peace! 'Tis not the time for haste Or argument. Yestreen from yonder lines, And unawares, three with a paltry force Assailed us, hungry lions they, we sheep Whom cold is driving from the mountain-tops. I found the whole plain. like a stream of blood, And famous heads laid low. The Iranians hold A barren rock, their chargers sniff at thorns Like musk. Wait till they burn upon the crags, And die resourceless. Leave no way to pass, Side, front, or rear-ward. Since without your fighting The foe will come to hand, why change delay For haste? Why should we fight? Ten horse will serve As scouts upon the plain. Wait we until Our foes lack food and drink, and ask for quarter. Unless they can subsist on thorns and flints When provand faileth they will take to them And die." They left the field, went to their tents, And scouts were posted while the warriors loosed Their belts and turned to sleep and banqueting. The chieftain Tus went also to his camp, With full heart and with cheeks of ebony, And thus addressed Gudarz: "Affairs grow dark; The fortunes of the Iranians are distraught. Troops compass us, our beasts' feed is all thorny, And food is not o'er-plenteous with the host Unsheathe at dawn. Rank on the mountain-skirts. If our good star prove helpful it will give us Our will upon our foes, while if the Judge Of heaven shall end us with the scimitar, No more or less can hap than His decree, So measure not your breaths in your dismay. Death too with high renown is goodlier Than life with fear and overthrow." They closed With what their fortune-favoured chief proposed.

Afrasiyab sent the Khan and Kamus to help Piran :

When from the sign of Cancer Sol reached out, And rent the musk-hued Veil, a messenger Came from the monarch to Piran and said:- "Troops throng from every side - a host whose dust Would make a desert of the sea of Chin Upon the battle-day. A chief is there From Ma wara 'u'n-Nahr; his head is raised O'er circling heaven; a hundred lions' strength Is his; he quelleth mighty elephants! In height a cypress and in looks a moon, A potentate whose toys are crowns and thrones, Kamus, this chief of chiefs, will have his will Upon Gudarz and Tus. The troops comprise All those that dwell 'twixt Sipanjab and Rum. I reckon first the Khan of Chin, whose crown Is heaven, his throne the earth, next brave Manshur, Whose falchion layeth warriors' heads in dust, And next Kaimus, the swordsman of Kashain, Whose eyes ne'er saw defeat. His works all prosper; When he is wroth he bringeth blast and snow." Piran harangued the army of Turan, And said: "Ye chiefs and warriors of the king Rejoice ye, young and old! at this good news, dent by the king, and be ye bright of soul; Now must we wash the trouble from our hearts I will not leave Irun field, fell, or crop. The pains and troubles of the king are over In seeking vengeance and arraying troops, And ye shall see Afrasiyab supreme By land and sea, at home and in Iran." From those approaching powers fresh messengers Kept coming to the captain of the host With joyful news: "O famous paladin Live glad and bright of soul for evermore. Be thy heart joyful to behold these kings, And may thy soul cease troubling. From Kashmir All, till thou comest to the river Shahd, Is elephants and litters, flags and troops, While from Saklab Kundur the lion-man Is coming with that warring Heaven Biward Of Kait, with Garcha from Sagsar, Shangul From Hind. Flags fill the air and swords the earth. Chaghan hath sent Fartus, the Light of hosts, Gahan hath sent Gahar, who scorcheth heroes, With Shamiran of Shakn, first of the age, Who scattereth poison with his spear and sword. Now lift thy head and take thy pleasure here, For this glad news would make an old man young." Piran laughed out with all his heart and soul, Thou wouldst have said: "He that was dead reviveth! " Thus spake he to Htiman: "I will go forth To meet them. They have had a longsome march, Equipped for fight and full of care.

They hold Their heads as high as loth Afrasiyab, For they have treasure, lustre, throne, and state. I will go forth and see what men they are, How many, with what chiefs and warriors, Will do obeisance to the Khan of Chin, And kiss the ground before his throne withal I will behold Kamus, the exalted one, And find Tus an opponent in Shangul. Returning hither I will gird myself To rob the Iranians of the breath of life, And, if they cannot hold their own, will make Day dark and strait to them. I will secure With heavy bonds about their feet and necks Those that survive among the Iranian chiefs, And then dispatch them to Afrasiyab, Not taking rest or sleep till it be done, Behead the common soldiers that I capture, Burn them, commit their ashes to the winds, And take no thought about the place again. Then will I part our army into three, And darken the Iranian monarch's day. I will dispatch one army unto Balkh, And make day bitter to the Iranians, Another to Kabulistan and bring Kabul the ashes of Zabulistan, And lead the third compact of mighty Turkmans And Lions 'gainst Iran. I will spare none, Not women, little children, young or old, But overthrow Iran, both field and fell. May not a hand or foot be left to them! But till I order matters seek not fight." Thus spake Piran and went with wreakful heart; Thou wouldst have said: "His very skin hath burst." Human said to the troops: "Away with care! - For two days let us labour but to keep Watch on Mount Hamawan, for fear our foes Steal off by night just when our flags will fill Completely road, plain, valley, stream, and hill."

How the Iranians tool Counsel how to act :

Now when Sol mounted to the vault of heaven The hearts of Tus and of Gudarz grew troubled:- "Why are the Turkmans still to-day? Are they At counsel or bemused? But be they sad Or glad I look for ill! Know that if aid Hath come to them ill hap hath come to us! Consider all the Iranian troops as slain Or, if still living, fleeing from the fight. If Rustam cometh not upon the field Disaster will befall us from yon host, And we shall have no sepulture, no grave, But horses' hoofs will trample on our heads! " Giv said to Tus: "O general of the Shah What aileth thee to think upon mishap? We need not look for ill; God is thy Helper; We are His worshippers, and have broadcast Much seed of good. Such fortune hath the Shah, The lord of scimitar and throne and crown, That God will not withdraw His help from'us, And leave our enemies to work their will. With Rustam's coming all our soldiers' cares Will end. Let no man cease to trust in God Though day should turn to night. Let not thy heart Be straitened needlessly because our foes Forbear to fight one day: they have not shut Heaven's door on us. Fear not the foe's designs. If God most high ordaineth loss for us (quit vain imaginings for come it will. Let us construct a trench before the host, As warriors rise, then draw the sword, provoke A fight and slay our foes; we shall no doubt Perceive their aims and lay their secret bare. News from Iran will come and there will be Light on the boughs of our tall Cypress-tree."

How Gudarz had Tidings of the Coming of Rustam :

Gudarz departed from the host and clomb The mountain-summit. From the look-out came A grievous cry: "The Iranian warriors Are ruined now! As yon bright sun declined The whole world eastward grew as dark as night With dust, which standard-bearing elephants Sent up, and through that dust the shining sun Was lustreless! " Gudarz heard that and cried:- Dark Dark earth is my sole hiding-place! " His cheeks Became as pitch, and like one arrow-pierced He cried: "My share is ever strife and battle, My lot ill-hap and bane for antidote. I had a host of sons and grandsons, men Reputed in the land, but all were slain For Siyawush, and all my luck hath gone! I hope no more from life, my day is dark! Would that my mother had not brought me forth, High heaven ne'er turned o'er me!" To the watch He said: "Long-sighted man and bright of mind! Look forth upon the hosts and see who cometh. Where is the banner of the Iranian chief? Look to our left and right." The watchman answered:- "I see no movement and reconnaissance On our side, but on theirs all is astir; Of us thou wouldest say: 'They are asleep.'" Thereat the paladin shed bitter tears, And cried in sorrow: "Saddle me my steed, Axed for the future make my bed of brick! I go to fill mine eyes and arms once more, Emrace Shidush, Bizhan, Ruhham, and Giv, Those brave, impetuous cavaliers, kiss each Farewell upon the cheek and shower tears." His gallant bay was saddled when there came The watchman's shout: "Rejoice, world-paladin! And banish care, for on the road that leadeth Toward Iran a black, day-darkening dust Ariseth; many standards like the moon Are lifted from the centre of a host; The first one bath a wolf, a moon the next, The third a dragon with a lion's head In gold upon the staff!" "Then live for ever, And may the evil eye be far from thee!" Gudarz exclaimed. "When what thou utterest To such good purpose shall be brought to pass I will bestow on thee such varied treasures That thou shaft have no need to toil henceforth. Hereafter, when we go back to Iran, . Some day, and to the monarch of the brave, I will forthwith present thee at his throne, And lift thy head above the nobles there.

Now prithee leave thy look-out-post, approach Our generals, and tell what thou hast seen; Be quick; use whom thou wilt upon the road." "I may not leave the look-out for the host," The watchman said, "but when 'tis grown so dark That I can see no longer I will carry, Like the Simurgh, the tidings to the troops Down from my station here." The paladin Rejoined: "Be shrewd of heart and bright of soul. Look forth from this high mountain yet again, And see how soon they will be here." He answered:- Yon Yon host will reach Mount Hamawan to-morrow At dawn." The paladin conceived such joy As would have brought a corpse to life. Piran, For his part, swift as flying dust-clouds led Those reinforcements to the battlefield. A horseman went on first to tell at large The joyful news which when Human had heard He laughed and said: "Now surely sleepless fortune Is with us." From the field a shout of joy Rose cloud-ward from the army of Turan. The Iranian nobles full of care and pain, With faces sallow and with livid lips, Dispersed themselves upon the mountain-side To give their last instructions. Everywhere Groups gathered and bewailed themselves, and said:- "Woe for these warriors of royal race, Who are forgotten by the Iranians, For now the lions' maws will be their tombs, And earth be saturate with heroes' blood! " The chief bespake Bizhan: "Arise, explore This secret, scale the mountain-top and mark The character and number of this host. See by what road they are approaching us, What camp-enclosures and what thrones they have." Bizhan the son of Giv then went apart, And climbed the mountain's solitary peak, Saw flags and horsemen, elephants and troops On all sides, ran back to the general, With heart all pain and soul all care, and said:- "Earth's surface bath become like indigo, So many are the troops and elephants! The flags and spears pass count, the sun is dim In heaven with dust, the troops are countless, boundless, The ear is deafened by their kettledrums." Tus listened, sad at heart and face all tears, Then called to him the captains, sorely grieved About his men, and said: "Time showeth me Naught but the woes of war. I have experienced Full many a rise and fall, but never fear Like this. We have but one resource: although Our arms and troops are few we will get ready, Attack to-night, and make earth a Jihun With blood. If we shall perish in the fray There will be generals while there are kings Men shall not say: 'He died ingloriously,' Although they have to lay me in the dust." The leaders present all agreed thereto. Now when the face of earth became like pitch, When Venus, Mars, and Mercury were hidden, And when the moon rose from the Sign of Pisces, And to the navel rent the robe of night, The watchman with a face like sandarach Ran in to Tus and said: "O General! The Shah hath sent an army from Iran! " The leader Us laughed with the other chiefs, And said: "O men of name and warriors We need not now seek fight since aid hath come, We have our times for haste and for delay. The elephantine hero by God's strength Will come to our assistance with this host; Then on the Turkmans will we satisfy Our lust, and our renown shall reach the sun." They thought no more about a night-attack; The troops and leader joyed; the watchman made Their spirits bright again, and young and old Told those glad tidings. Tus sent forth his scouts, Shouts and the clang of bells rose from the mount, And all the folk, grown happy and soul-bright, Talked of the chief of paladins all night.

How the Khan of Chin went to reconnoitre the Army of Iran :

Whenas the sun arrayed its host in heaven, And black night disappeared, the Khan of Chin Assembled the Turanian chiefs and warriors, And thus addressed Piran: "We will not fight To-day, and we do need a day's repose, But, while our proud chiefs and man-slaying horsemen Rest from the travail of the tedious road, And from their hurried march o'er hill and dale, I will survey the Iranians - how they fare Upon the field." Piran replied: "The Khan Is a wise king and worshipful, so let him Do what he will to-day for he is leader." There rose a clamour from the camp-enclosure With sounds of kettledrum and clarion. They mounted seats upon five elephants, Housed with brocade of Chin of turquoise hue, And broidered with gold thread. The seats themselves Were gemmed with emeralds, the fittings golden, The saddle-flaps were made of leopard-skin, And golden were bells, gongs, and rattle-boxes. The drivers' heads were decked with crowns, and all Wore torques and ear-rings. With so many flags Of painted silk the air was yellow, red, And violet like some bazar in Chin. The troops marched to the field as if to keep A feast, the earth was beauteous as the eye Of chanticleer with trappings, colours, drums, And pipes. The kings set forth, the air was filled With blare of clarions, the spearpoints gleamed, The plain was black with troops. Tus from afar Saw them and ranged in line what men he had, The warriors of Iran girt up their loins, And Giv brought Kawa's standard. From the plain Of battle to the summit of the mount The army of Iran stood troop on troop. Now when Kamus went forward with Manshur, Biward, Shangul the prescient, and the Khan To view Mount Hamawan, they never thought To face a foe, but when the Khan afar Looked forth and heard the Iranian horsemen's war-cry It pleased him and he said: "Behold a host Of men - o'erthrowing, warlike cavaliers Piran the chieftain told us otherwise, But brave men's qualities should not be hidden. The chieftain masketh the pit's mouth with brambles, And thither will his horse speed at the chase. What better is it vainly to besmirch The foemen's prowess on the day of fight? I have not looked on cavaliers and chiefs So stamped with chivalry and manliness." " Men reek not of so few," Piran replied, "Upon a field like this." " But," said the Khan, "What shall we do?" Piran said: "Thou hast fared Far over hill and dale. Let us remain Three days to rest the troops. I will divide The host; the day of fight and fear is over. Half of our warlike, glorious cavaliers Shall fall upon the foe from dawn till noon With double-pointed dart, sword, bow, and mace; And then till night ariseth from the hills The other half shall strive. At dark will I Bring up the rested troops and press the foe; We will not let them have a moment's peace - We and our eager cavaliers in arms." Kamus replied: "Not good! No such delay For me! With all these men and such strife toward Why seek so long a respite? Let us both Attack and straiten dale and height for them. Hence we will march upon Iran, will leave not Throne, crown, or diadem, lay waste all fields And fells, and act as warriors and Lions. No women, little children, old or young, No Shah, or man of rank or paladin Will I leave in Inin, no field or fell, No hall or palace or four-footed beast. Why should we pass so many evil days To get but care and grief and needless pain? But ope not to our foes a door to-night To get away. As soon as morning breatheth The troops must move. I with the king of Hind Will bear my flag up yonder height. To-morrow Thou shaft behold a heap of corpses there To make the Iranians weep that look thereon." The Khan said to Piran: "There is no course Save this: he is a peerless general." The nobles all agreed to what Kimus, The conqueror of Lions, had proposed. The conference being o'er they went their way, And passed all night in ordering their array.

How Fariburz reached Mount Hamazvan :

Whenas the sun had pitched a camp-enclosure Of gold brocade upon the azure realm A loud cry from the look-out reached Gudarz "O captain of the host! the troops have come! They are at band; Their dust hath dimmed the day:" Gudarz sprang up, had his swift charger brought, And rode toward that dark dust with anxious heart. He came. When near to them he spied the flag Of Fariburz the chief, who led the van, The well approven and the new Shah's kinsman.' Then old Gudarz alighted as withal" Did Fariburz the wise, the army's Lustre. The twain embraced. Gudarz wept tears of blood Upon his breast. "Old chief," said Fariburz, "Still forced to fight! revenge for Siyawush Hath cost thee dear! Alas! those cavaliers Gudarzian' May much good news of them Still reach thee, may the fortune of the foe Be over-turned! Praise to the Lord of sun And moon that I have seen thee safe and sound." Gudarz wept blood for those that slept in dust. "Observe," he made reply, "how evil fortune Is ever bringing evil on my head! No son or grandson hath survived this strife, No soldiers, flags, and kettledrums are left But I dismiss all thought of conflicts past; Now is the time for fighting and emprise. The troops on plain and dale have made earth like A raven's wing, so many are they, and all The host of Tus is as the one black hair Upon a white bull by comparison! The wastes and settlements of Chin, Saklab, Of Rum and Hind, can have no creature left! All must have girt themselves to fight with us But till thou tellest me where Rustam is My back will not be straightened from its griefs." " He is behind me," Fariburz replied, "Intent on war. All through the night till dawn He marcheth with all speed. Now where shall I Encamp and whither lead this little band?" Gudarz made answer: "What did Rustam say? His words should be reported." Fariburz Replied: "Illustrious one! the peerless Rustam Bade us not fight. 'Stay on the field,' he said. 'Ye must not show yourselves before the host, But take your ease until my flag appeareth. "' Then Fariburz, Gudarz in company, Marched toward Mount Hamawan right speedily.

How Piran took Counsel with the Khan of Chin :

When from his look-out the Turanian watch Espied these troops he went back to the host. "Gird all your loins for fight," he told Piran, "For from Iran an army bath arrived, Advancing o'er the plain! " The general Went to the Khan of Chin, and said: "An army Is coming from Iran, how great I know not, Or who the leader is. What shall we do?" Kamus said: "Keep thyself to throe own force. Thou bast the warriors of Afrasiyab - An army like the waters of the sea - Yet what hast thou accomplished in five months Against a foe so small? Now that the earth Is full of troops led by the Khan, Manshur, And me, let us display our prowess; thou Hast locked the door but we will bring the key. Although the world's face be as silk of Chin With soldiers from Kabul, Zabul, and Hind, Yet, should I fight alone, the Irai,nians Were nothing. Thou wilt say of them: 'They are not.' Thou wouldest scare me with illustrious Rustam; Him will I slaughter first; if once I catch him His name shall not be talked of any more. Thou art oppressed and fearful of this host Approaching from Sistan, but once behold My hand in battle, when the dust-cloud riseth Upon the plain, and thou wilt recognise A hero in the world, what brave men are, And what fight is." Piran said: "Live for ever! May evil's hand be always far from thee. Enough! may what thou sayest be fulfilled, And no one prove thine equal." Said the Khan:- "Thou bast allowed Kamus to lead the attack; He will perform his word, for he hath Mountains As his allies and Elephants for mates. Daunt not the troops, for these Irinians Are no great matter, and I will not leave One noble in Iran, but send up dust From hill and vale; as for the men of worship, I will dispatch them to Afrasiyab In heavy fetters and behead the rest. We will not leave Iran a leaf, a tree, A Shah, a palace or a crown or throne." Piran with smiles did reverence to the chiefs, And to the Khan of Chin, then went rejoicing Back to the camp, where all the nobles sought him, Such as Hurnzin, Lahhak, and Farshidward - Great men and Lions on the day of battle. "A host," they said, "arriveth from Iran, Led by a sable flag; a noted scout Went forth to spy and is but now returned.

They say 'tis Fariburz son of Kaus, A noble, loyal soldier." Said Piran:- "Let us dismiss our cares. In Rustam's absence We need not be afraid of Fariburz; His breath is no cure for a bane like this. But though according to Kamus indeed The elephantine Rustam is no man In war, God grant he come not though Kamus Be such a Crocodile!" Human replied: - "Why lost thou keep thy spirit dark with care? This is not he, or army from SistAn Here are the blood and dust of Fariburz." Piran said: "I have given u.p the throne And state in dudgeon with the sun and moon, For when I heard that from Iran a host Marched, and was coming to this battlefield, My brain went, anguish filled my soul and head, And from my heart I drew a chilly sigh." Kulbad said: "Why this grief? What need is there To weep because of Rustam or of Tus? With all our soldiers, maces, elephants, And scimitars we block the wind itself. Why fear then Rustam, Tus, and Kai Khusrau? What are the Iranians but as dust to us? They were dispersed in flight from yonder field, And straggled to their tents." Anon Tus heard:- The land is full of beat of kettledrum, And elephantine Rustam hath arrived With Fariburz and soldiers from Iran." He bade bring forth the drums, Mount Hamawan, Wherefrom shouts rose, grew ebon with dark dust, And earth shook underneath the trampling steeds. Then Tus harangued the troops, he spake at large About Mazandaran, what Rustam did In battle with the divs, and how he triumphed. The soldiers called down' blessings on their chief, They said: "Be ware of heart and bright of mind. We may pour out our souls at this good news, Which easeth them. When peerless Rustam cometh Yon host will not withstand the Crocodile. Then will we battle on this mount forthwith To cast this shame off from the Iranians. The standard of the illustrious Khan, the crown, The golden shields, and throne of ivory, His elephant-attendants' crowns of gold, Their golden girdles and their golden torques, Their golden cymbals and their golden bells, Unmatched on earth, his jewelled parasol Of peacocks' tails, these will we seize, and more, When we arc fighting with our lives at stake." Tus said: "We are exposed to fear and blame; Our foes surround the mount, our nobles' heads Are snared. When Rustam cometh he will speak Upbraidingly, not asking what bath chanced, And say: 'Thou writ a bird caught in a net; The cause was sodden but the fight was raw. As with the general so with the host I have not seen one eager for the fray!' So let us charge like lions, and the foe May yet be shifted on this side the mount." The troops replied to him: "Soar not so high. Refrain from words like these, let none advance Till Rustam bath surveyed the scene of strife. We will make prayer to God, the Guide to good. By His command, Who holdeth sun and moon, The matchless Rustam will approach this field. Why have disaster for thy star? Bestow Dinars and drachms upon the poor." The troops Raised shouts of joy upon the mountain-top As merrily they sought their place of rest, Each man to spend the night as seemed him best.

How Giv and Tus fought with Kurds :

When Sol laid hand on Taurus, and the larks Began to carol o'er the plain, a shout Ascended from the encampment of Kamus, That man-o'erthrowing chief who led the van. He massed his troops and gave out mail; his heart Was full of fight, his head of vapouring. He changed his robe for armour, donned a helm Instead of crown, a breastplate for a tunic, And chose troops panoplied in steel and iron. The armies' dust began to show itself, Men could not see their way for scimitars And coats of mail. Then from the Iranian look-out A shout rose: "On our side a host hath come; The standard of the elephantine chief Is visible behind it. On the other Turanian troops have clouded all the air. Their leader is a horseman like a rock, And earth is shaken by his charger's hoofs. His mace's head is like a buffalo's; Troops follow him and spearmen lead the way. Thou well mayst muse at one that shouldereth A mace like that! " On his side Tus sent up The drum-roll to the clouds, he heard the watchman, His soul grew bright, he joyed, while from Gudarz A horseman sped to Fariburz to say:- "The army of Turan arrayed for battle Is near at hand. They must not in full force Assail us scattered thus and overthrow us. Act as thy nature biddeth, for thou art A noble and Shah's son. The dust of Rustam Is rising from the road, and lie is entering The field." Then Fariburz joined force with Tus And Giv. They ranged the host on Hamaw an, And raised the glorious flag. All being ready, Right, left, and centre, rear and baggage-train, The clarions blared and all the host came on As 'twere the starry sky; so when Kamus Advanced to fight he had no need to wait, But, like a river speeding down a height, Led on his troops and fronted Hamawan. Air was like indigo and earth was hidden. When he was near he faced toward the mount, And with his cheeks all smiles addressed his powers:- "It is a coward's business to oppose The Iranians, yet a vast, brave host is here And not Piran, Human, and all that crew! What champion have they to contend with me?" Then shouting to Mount Hamawan he cried:- "Ye lion-men upon the day of battle! Behold my breast, my stature, and my bearing, This arm of mine, this sword and mace! " Then Giv, On hearing, flared up, raged, and drew his sword, But said, when he drew nearer to Kamus:- "None but a furious elephant can match him! " He took and strung his bow, he called on God, The Giver of all good, and showered arrows From bow like clouds in spring upon Kamus, Who, when he marked Giv's mastery, concealed His own head 'neath his shield, and with his lance Charged wolf-like. Air was full of dust, and earth Of death. On drawing near his foe he speared Giv's waist, who reeled and, as he reeled, Kamus Plucked out his own sword, shouted, raged, proclaimed His name, came grimly on the cavalier, And clave his lance obliquely like a pen. Tus from the centre saw the fight with grief, And thought: "Giv is not man enough; I only Can wield a spear like that." He left the centre With shouts to succour Giv and join the fray. Kamus wheeled, rode between the chiefs, and struck The steed of Tus a sword-blow on the neck; That prince's face became like ebony. The charger fell, the gallant rider rose; Then like a roaring lion took his stand, And on the battlefield with spear afoot Contended with Kamus before the hosts. Two noble warriors fought one cavalier; He of Kashan was still insatiate! Thus, till the sun's place darkened, all the field Was in confusion and, when it grew ebon, Kamus and Tus gave o'er. The hosts again Went to their several camps on mount and plain.

Source :

http://www.heritageinstitute.com/
zoroastrianism/shahnameh/
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