بخش 8
Prose Version
King Kavus prepares a camel to send a letter back to Siavash. The letter is filled with anger and harsh words. Kavus criticizes Siavash for being young and naive, accusing him of being deceived by Afrasiyab. He reminds Siavash of Afrasiyab's past treachery and refuses to accept the peace treaty. He orders Siavash to gather the hostages, bind them, and send them to the court immediately for execution. He also commands Siavash to attack Afrasiyab or, if he is unwilling to fight, to hand over the army to Tus and return to the court. Siavash receives the letter and is deeply troubled. He consults with his trusted companions, Bahram and Zangeh Shavaran. He explains that he cannot in good conscience kill the innocent hostages, as it would be a sin against God and would tarnish his name forever. He also cannot return to the court and face the wrath of his father and the machinations of Soudabeh. He feels trapped between a rock and a hard place. Siavash decides that he cannot break his oath and kill the hostages. He also decides not to return to Iran. Instead, he chooses to seek refuge elsewhere. He asks Zangeh to go to Afrasiyab and explain his predicament: that Kavus has rejected the peace and demanded the hostages' blood, but Siavash refuses to comply. He asks Afrasiyab for safe passage through Turan to find a place to live in exile, away from the conflict. Zangeh delivers the message to Afrasiyab. Afrasiyab is initially confused and consults with Piran Viseh, his wise counselor. Piran advises Afrasiyab to welcome Siavash. He argues that Siavash is a noble prince, and having him on their side would be a great advantage. It would bring peace and potentially unite the two kingdoms in the future. Afrasiyab, though wary of the proverb "raising a lion cub," is convinced by Piran's reasoning. Afrasiyab writes a warm letter to Siavash, welcoming him to Turan. He calls Siavash his son and offers him a safe haven, promising to treat him with honor and respect. He assures Siavash that he will be safe from Kavus and that Turan is his home. Siavash receives the letter with mixed emotions—joy at finding safety, but sorrow at being forced into exile by his own father. He writes a final letter to Kavus, expressing his pain and the injustice he has suffered, from Soudabeh's accusations to this forced exile. He then hands over the command of the army and the treasures to Bahram, instructing him to wait for Tus. Siavash selects three hundred loyal horsemen and prepares to cross the border into Turan, leaving his homeland behind.