Arsalan shines a spotlight on Qaran, the fierce and loyal warrior who has defended Iran from invaders and honourably carried forward the legacy of his father, Kaveh the Blacksmith.

Arsalan marks the approaching end of the Pishdadian dynasty, reflecting on the significance of the Shahnameh's first lineage of kings and the transition that lies ahead.

Arsalan retells King Zaav's brief reign and how a devastating famine unites the warring sides behind a common cause for peace, bringing about the conclusion to the first Turanian invasion of Iran.

Arsalan retells how Zal and Qaran seek out and elect Zaav, an Iranian elder, as the nation's new king to succeed the fallen King Nowzar, even as Afrasiyab of Turan still occupies the throne.

Arsalan retells the crisis of leadership facing Iranians after Afrasiyab murders King Nowzar and seizes the Iranian throne.

Arsalan retells the tale of Aghriras, the brother of Afrasiyab who defies his own nation to save 1200 Iranian nobles from execution and pays the ultimate price for his mercy.

Arsalan marks the first anniversary of Shahnameh Quest with a personal message, thanking listeners for being part of the journey.

Arsalan discusses Ferdowsi's thoughts on greed, power, and ambition in the wake of King Nowzar's execution by Afrasiyab and the end of Fereydoun's line .