A Persian Legend from the Shah Nameh Retold by Marilyn Bolchunos.
Kai Kaus, Shah of ancient Persia, was not noted for being a great king. In fact, he was said to have been rather foolish. But he will long be remembered for his legendary flight.
From his youth Kai Kaus had been fascinated by the heavens. One fine spring day he sent for his astronomers to tell them of his plan.
“I have thought of a way to fly,” he said, “to see for myself the nature of the sun and moon and how it is that night follows day. I will study the planets and the stars that surround them. Nothing like this has ever been planned until now!” The Shah’s eyes shone with excitement.
His astronomers stared at him in astonishment. Kai Kaus laughed to see their expressions.
Then he said, “I have had four young eagles stolen from their nest and raised to be large and strong. My carpenter has built a framework of aloe wood. I will sit in it, and the eagles will carry me to heights no one has seen before.”
The first astronomer spoke. “Your Majesty, even if this would work, you will go neither high nor far.”
“We can’t know that, can we?” said Kai Kaus angrily.
“You’ll be dragged,” said the second astronomer. “Have someone else try this flight first.”
“No,” replied Kai Kaus. “I want to be the first to fly!”
The third astronomer stroked his beard. “People were not meant to fly,” he said haughtily.
“Silence,” ordered the Shah. “I have heard enough.”
A few days later one of Queen Sudaveh’s handmaidens looked out the window of the women’s quarters. “My Queen,” she said, “the Shah is preparing to take flight.”
Sudaveh looked out. What she saw caused her to lift her skirts and run down the stairs to the courtyard. She pushed her way through a gathering crowd.
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