As speedily as possible he assembled together his counsellors and Múbids
to obtain their advice on the present extraordinary occasion, and he
represented to them the sacred importance of encouraging matrimonial
alliances.

For marriage is a contract sealed by Heaven--
How happy is the Warrior's lot, amidst
His smiling children; when he dies, his son
Succeeds him, and enjoys his rank and name.
And is it not a glorious thing to say--
This is the son of Zál, or this of Sám,
The heir of his renowned progenitor?

He then related to them the story of his love and affection for the
daughter of Mihráb; but the Múbids, well knowing that the chief of Kábul
was of the family of Zohák, the serpent-king, did not approve the union
desired, which excited the indignation of Zál. They, however,
recommended his writing a letter to Sám, who might, if he thought
proper, refer the matter to Minúchihr. The letter was accordingly
written and despatched, and when Sám received it, he immediately
referred the question to his astrologers, to know whether the nuptials,
if solemnized between Zál and Rúdábeh, would be prosperous or not. They
foretold that the nuptials would be prosperous, and that the issue would
be a son of wonderful strength and power, the conqueror of the world.
This announcement delighted the heart of the old warrior, and he sent
the messenger back with the assurance of his approbation of the proposed
union, but requested that the subject might be kept concealed till he
returned with his army from the expedition to Karugsár, and was able to
consult with Minúchihr.