The Fifth Labour depicts Rostam’s fateful encounter with Olad, a powerful Turkic warrior of Mazandaran. After four perilous trials, Rostam faces Olad in single combat. The clash is fierce, with Olad’s strength rivaling that of Iran’s greatest champion. Yet Rostam overpowers him, pulling him from his horse with his mace. Instead of killing his foe, Rostam makes a pact: Olad will guide him to the White Demon’s lair and to the imprisoned King Kavus. In return, Rostam promises to spare his life and crown him king of Mazandaran once victory is secured. This moment of strategy and mercy transforms a rival into an ally, marking a turning point in Rostam’s epic journey
