Arjásp

Family: Chín and Má-chín · Role: ruler · First appears: Gushtásp, and the Faith of Zerdusht · Part 1

As ruler of Chín and Má-chín, Arjásp threatened war when Gushtásp refused to pay tribute, accusing him of abandoning the old religion under Zerdusht’s influence. He invaded Irán, laying waste to the countryside, and fought Gushtásp’s forces. After Zarír broke through to his headquarters, Arjásp retreated when Isfendiyár, Bishú, and Firshaid advanced against him; many of his troops surrendered or were captured.

In the Story of Gushtásp, and the Faith of Zerdusht, Arjásp later sent his son Kahram with an army to take revenge. Their forces defeated Gushtásp, who took refuge in a mountain-fort. When Isfendiyár returned with an overwhelming attack, Arjásp fled. In the Story of the Capture of the Brazen Fortress, he granted entry to a merchant who was actually Isfendiyár in disguise, using the name Kherád. At night, Isfendiyár entered Arjásp’s chamber and killed him; he also slew Kahram.