According to al-Tabari, whose work was probably based on Sasanian sources,[5] Ardashir I and Artabanus IV agreed to meet in Hormozdgan at the end of the month of Mihr (April).[6] Nonetheless, Ardashir I went to the place before due time to occupy an advantageous spot on the plain.[6] There he dug out a ditch to defend himself and his forces.