Homay (همای)

Homay, also known as Homay-e Chehrzad, is the daughter of Bahman (son of Esfandiyar) and also his wife. Bahman, realizing his death was imminent while Homay was six months pregnant, appointed her as regent until their child, Darab, was born. When Bahman appointed the then-pregnant Homay as his successor, his son, Sasan was so "annoyed" and resentful at being passed over for the throne that he left the royal court. Following Bahman’s death, Homay takes the throne and reigns for roughly 30 years. Afraid of losing her grip on power, Homay keeps the birth of her son, Darab, a secret. When he is eight months old, she puts him in a box with jewels and sets him adrift on the Euphrates River. He is later found and raised by a washerman. During her reign, Rome attacks the western borders of Iran. Homay demonstrates leadership by appointing Reshnavad to command the army. The Iranian army, with the young Darab fighting in it, secures victory. Upon the army's return, Reshnavad recognizes Darab as Homay's son. Recognizing that she can no longer hide him, Homay relinquishes the throne to her son, Darab, after her long rule.