|Ayleen's POV|

-The next day-

Sibylle and I had barely slept, not after unearthing the depths of what was hidden in Sema’s documents. Even now, as I pored over them once more, I was overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of detail. The reports, dated and painstakingly composed, chronicled my every move from the moment I first stepped into the Ottoman Empire. Sema had left nothing to chance, every nuance, every event meticulously recorded, as though she had followed my every step.

I rubbed my forehead, exhaustion tugging at me, but I couldn’t stop reading. Each report was literally a reflection of my life, some things I had forgotten, others I wished I could forget. Seeing them in words made it all feel even more overwhelming.

"This is too much" I whispered, staring down at the papers "She’s written about everything, things I thought were so personal"

The more I read, the more I realized how much more observant and involved Sema had been than I ever imagined. But what unsettled me most was the way she seemed to see me, like a symbol, a bridge between two worlds. Would people outside the palace see me the same way? This is my life, not just a story on paper.

"Look at this" I muttered, flipping to the next report "She’s been watching everything, she’s even written about my relationship with Zühre and how it benefits me, since her husband is the grand vizier" I sighed, running a hand through my hair.

"Don’t stress yourself" Sibylle said, setting the papers aside and rubbing her tired eyes "At least we’re described as beautiful" she added with a grin, clearly trying to lighten the mood.

"I suppose that’s the silver lining in all of this" I said, forcing a faint smile as I looked at her. I was utterly confused, not sure how to make sense of any of it. I never anticipated any of this. All I wanted was to figure out who was behind the incident, and now I’ve found myself trapped in this mess.

If there’s one thing I’ve come to realize, it’s that since my marriage was decided, I became part of this empire’s story. There are countless expectations to meet and so much to do just to earn any kind of favor.

It seemed that Sema had spent years in the harem, patiently waiting for the right moment to offer herself into my service. And when Seyfeddin was born, she seized the chance to insert herself into my life. She must have known that her moment had finally arrived. She understood the stakes, saw it as her opportunity to get closer, to be with me nearly every moment, and with that, she’d gain more details than anyone else.

I paused, staring at the stack of documents once more, struck by the magnitude of what was unfolding. I had believed I was simply living my life, doing my best for my family and the people. But now, it felt as though every action, or inaction, was being watched by unseen eyes.

This took me right back to when I was with Orhan in Bursa, and again to that moment when we entered the secret chamber together. Seeing those graves and portraits had always made me wonder how I would be remembered. And for some reason, as I read through these documents, I caught a glimpse of some answers.

»»-----　♔　-----««

I leaned against the short marble wall, looking out at the sprawling gardens below. The calmness of the view did little to soothe the storm raging in my mind, as it seemed the more I thought, the more questions piled up.

"Mother?" My thoughts were interrupted by a gentle voice from behind me, and the moment I heard it, I knew it was Osman. I turned to find him standing a few steps away, his face etched with concern.

"Osman" I smiled, reaching out my hand for him to come closer.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice anxious, yet carrying a calmness that always reminded me of Orhan.

"I’m fine, my dear. You don’t need to worry" I smiled at him, though it felt like an effort, trying to hide the exhaustion that had settled deep into my bones.

"But you’ve been so quiet, and you don’t smile like you used to. I don’t like it" He didn’t seem convinced, his brow furrowing slightly as he gently placed his small hand on mine.

"Well, darling, I was frightened, yes, I won’t deny it" I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper "But that’s all behind us now"

"I don’t like seeing you scared, Mother" he murmured, gently raising his hand to brush a strand of my hair away "You’re always so calm, always laughing. It’s hard when you’re not"

I reached out to him, pulling him close and holding him tightly for a moment. It always warmed my heart to see the young gentleman he was becoming. Osman was only nine, but even at this age, he had a maturity to him that felt beyond his years. I had a feeling that wouldn’t change anytime soon.

"I love you, my sweet boy" I murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of his head before pulling away to look at him one last time "Now, go have some fun with your brothers. I don’t like seeing you sad either"

"Okay. But only if you promise you’ll smile more today" He smiled up at me, the light returning to his Brown eyes.

"I promise" I replied with a soft smile, which only grew wider when he reached for my hand and placed a kiss on the back of it before turning and running off.

I turned back toward the doors leading into my chambers. As I stepped inside, I froze for a moment, a smile creeping across my face. There, pacing back and forth, was Selim, with little Seyfeddin cradled in his arms. He was speaking to him as if the baby could understand, his voice soft and soothing, almost as if the child in his arms were his confidant.

"It’s alright, Seyfeddin. We’ll keep you safe, I promise. Nothing will harm you. You can trust me. I know you don't understand now, but you have four older brothers, and I think that’s going to be something really special for you someday"

"Selim, darling" I called playfully, approaching them and twirling my fingers "Looks like you're having quite the conversation?"

Selim stopped pacing instantly and turned toward me, a faint flush creeping up his neck as if he hadn’t expected anyone to overhear him. He glanced down at Seyfeddin, who was holding onto him with wide, innocent eyes, and smiled softly.

"I was just... talking to Seyfeddin" he replied, his voice still gentle "I think he understands. He needs to know everything’s alright. I want to make sure he feels safe"

"Aww, you’re such a cutie, I love you" I said, brushing my hand through his hair and pressing a kiss to his cheek. Just then, Seyfeddin started to clutch at my dress, making me laugh "You too, baby. I love you too"

»»-----　♔　-----««

Orhan had always been gentle, but tonight, his touch felt unusually tender. His fingers drifted through my hair as he sat beside me, his gaze intensely focused, as if he were studying me, searching for something in my eyes. Maybe, though, he was simply lost in thought.

For a moment, I allowed myself to sink into the comfort of his attention, feeling safe in his arms. But I couldn’t ignore that it wasn’t the same for him. He was so quiet, barely uttering a word since we’d sat here an hour ago.

"Orhan" I called softly, my voice breaking the peaceful silence as I traced my fingers along the fabric of his clothes "What’s on your mind?"

His hand, which had been gently caressing my back, paused for a moment. He didn’t respond right away, instead leaning forward slightly, lifting his hand off my wrist in a motion that didn’t seem entirely intentional.

"It’s nothing, just thinking" he murmured, his voice low "Don’t worry about it"

I studied his face, noticing the way his jaw tightened. I knew him too well, he couldn’t hide it from me. I could see it, feel it, in the depth of his gaze.

"It’s about your brother, isn’t it?" I said without thinking, knowing how much this meant to Orhan. With everything going on, it had to be weighing on him more than he let on.

"Yes..." he nodded quietly "The situation with your brother... it’s complicated"

"I know, I know" I said softly "You don’t have to protect me from this. I’m aware of what’s been happening. I know he’s been causing trouble again. You don’t need to shield me from it"

"It’s not about hiding it from you" he replied quietly, meeting my gaze "It’s just state affairs I don’t want you involved in. But yeah... the relationship between the Empire and your family, it’s fragile. Very fragile, and it’s falling apart" He spoke quickly, as if eager to get the facts out, not wanting to burden me with sadness.

I sighed softly. It didn’t hit me as hard, since I’d been dealing with it for almost three months now, but still, a wave of overwhelm swept over me. The fact that my husband was feeling attacked by my brother, someone who was supposed to be his ally, felt so bitter, and in a way, even embarrassing for me.

"I know" I whispered finally, my hand reaching out to intertwine my fingers with his "We'll find a solution"

For a moment, I saw the faintest flicker of relief in his eyes, as if the simple touch of my hand brought him some comfort. He quickly masked it, though, redirecting his focus back to me with a faint smile, as if trying to shift the conversation away.

"Let’s not focus on that" he suggested, standing up and gently pulling me with him "I have some news that will make you happy"

He led me to the desk, where a small, carefully sealed envelope rested. Orhan picked it up, turning to face me with a knowing expression.

"I received this letter today" he murmured, his voice calm, and for the first time that evening, a genuine smile appeared on his face "It’s from Bursa"

He handed it to me, and I paused for a moment, letting curiosity build before carefully opening it. As I unfolded the letter, my eyes swept over the words, and the meaning gradually became clear.

"Oh! The mosque" I whispered, unable to hold back the rush of emotion that flooded me. I hadn’t expected this "It’s finished?"

Orhan nodded, his eyes softening as he watched my reaction. At first, I couldn’t find the words. A wave of gratitude and overwhelming joy swept through me. Years of planning and waiting had led to this moment, and I’d cherished every decision Orhan let me be a part of. It felt like the most special gift I’d ever received.

"You deserve it" Orhan remarked, stepping closer and gently resting his hand on my shoulder as he smiled "You’ve been patient, and this is my way of honoring you, something that will stand forever" He sighed softly, his gaze locking with mine "I hope you’ll continue to support me in the decisions to come, as you always have. Because that’s all that matters to me"

I gazed into his eyes for a moment, knowing exactly what he meant. I understood that the only thing holding him back from making decisions was me and my feelings, but it seemed we had reached a crossroads. Perhaps, in the end, Mattias and I would find ourselves on opposite sides of a great war.

»»-----　♔　-----««

-One week Later-

I glanced once more at Sümbül, walking beside me, his expression filled with confusion, as if he couldn’t quite understand why I was doing what I was doing. Yet, I felt that I had reached the limit of my thoughts. I was eager to meet Sema, to hear her perspective, for in the end, I found myself understanding her in a way I hadn’t expected.

I descended the stairs quietly, and once I reached the bottom, the guards greeted me with nothing more than a polite nod as I approached the heavy dungeon door. They opened it and, as protocol dictated, turned their backs, unable to look upon my face.

Sema sat there quietly, idly toying with a piece of her veil. There was a calmness about her; despite the situation, she appeared remarkably composed. However, as soon as she noticed me, she rose quickly and lowered her gaze, not in fear, but in a gesture of respect.

"Are you alright?" I asked gently, unsure of how to begin or where to even start.

"I am well, Sultanim. Thank you for asking" she replied, offering a small, gentle smile, one that seemed almost natural, despite her current circumstances.

"You've been through so much" I murmured, stepping closer, hoping to convey that I wasn’t here with ill intentions "I never expected things to turn out this way"

There was a moment of silence, the understanding clear between us. Sema knew that I had discovered everything. I could tell just from the look on her face.

"I understand, Sultanim" she nodded, meeting my gaze "But everything I did was for the greater good. I know it may not have seemed that way at first, but I never intended to harm you"

"I'm still processing it" I exhaled slowly, reflecting on her words "I understand you were simply doing your job, but the way you went about it was wrong. You can't just enter someone's life and start writing about it without their knowledge. It feels... exploitative"

"It was never about personal gain, Sultanim" she said softly "I didn't write just for the sake of writing. I wrote because your life, Sultana, was never just yours. It belonged to the empire, to the people, to history" She paused, as if gauging my reaction, ensuring I understood her intent, before adding "It was about ensuring that when the time came, your story would be remembered correctly. Because a story lost to history is a tragedy" Her words were spoken gently, as though she were simply trying to make me see her point.

"Look... I've been angry" I confessed, my voice softening "But I was also trying to understand your point of view. And I have to admit, you were doing your job, Sema, and you did it perfectly" I made an effort to push aside all my negative thoughts, allowing myself to be honest, for once, with both her and myself. Her duty hadn’t been easy, yet she carried it out for so long, with so much passion.

"I have so much respect and faith in you that I've become more than just a writer, I've become an admirer" she said, stepping closer and offering a friendly smile "No matter what happens now, it was an honor to document a part of your life. To be part of something greater than myself. I'm just so grateful"

For the first time in all these days, I felt a sense of peace. I could see the truth in her eyes. She wasn’t here to manipulate or expose, but simply a woman doing what she believed was her duty. A woman who had devoted years of her life to preserving the history of someone else. And all I had to do now was support such a remarkable woman.

"I will make sure your dedication doesn’t go unrecognized" I affirmed, finally smiling warmly as I exchanged a glance with her. I then turned to the guard and Sümbül, who were waiting outside "Release her, she's innocent. She will return to my service"

I knew I was doing the right thing, and I promised myself that I would remain supportive for the rest of my life to those who are simply doing what is right. Sema is a remarkable woman, and I will ensure that her name is remembered. I knew that all her hard work could easily be overshadowed by a man who would claim it as his own, but I vowed that wouldn't happen. She would receive the full credit she deserves.

»»-----　♔　-----««

"That looks absolutely perfect" Sibylle said with a smile, sliding the ring onto my finger "Turhan Sultan truly outdid herself organizing that dinner. The past few days have been tough, go, enjoy yourself, and have some fun"

I smiled and nodded at her, even though I didn’t feel entirely at ease. We still didn’t know who was behind what had happened, and the uncertainty made me anxious about the safety of my children. But at least tonight, they would all be joining us for dinner, since Turhan Sultan had insisted that everyone should be there. Zeynep had brought her two sons as well, and sadly, Ayşe wouldn’t be attending, she lived far away with her husband and could barely find the time to visit once in a while.

"The best part is that Beyhan won’t be there" I chuckled, rising to my feet and checking my reflection in the mirror "She claimed to have a headache" I gave Sibylle a knowing glance, and we both laughed, fully aware that Beyhan was simply trying to avoid me.

Once everything was settled, I kissed Seyfeddin on the cheek as Ebru held him, then she followed me to Valide Sultan's chambers, where the rest of the children were already gathered.

"Ah, here comes my little şehzade" Turhan Sultan smiled as we stepped into the chamber, lifting her hands in a gesture for me to give her Seyfeddin.

I took Seyfeddin from Ebru and stepped over to Turhan Sultan, gently placing him in her lap. Then, I settled into my seat next to Zeynep, who was engaged in conversation with Aysel. In the corner, Osman, Selim, and Ilyas were deep in discussion, and with a single glance, I could tell that Ilyas wasn’t pleased with whatever they were talking about.

"Where is Ahmed?" I asked Nuray, confused, as I looked around and realized he wasn’t there. He’s not the type to be late for anything.

"He was taking a stroll in the garden" she replied, brushing her fingers through Beyaz's white fur "With that girl..." She paused, as if trying to recall the name, then added "Nisan"

"Oh" I nodded with a smile, then interlaced my fingers in my lap "I hope he’ll be here soon, before your father arr..."

Before I could finish, we heard the announcement of Orhan's arrival, and the doors swung open to reveal Orhan, with Ahmed right behind him. Everyone immediately stopped what they were doing and rose to their feet.

"Well, since everyone is here, it’s time for dinner" Turhan Sultan remarked with a wide smile, turning her gaze to Ilyas while still holding Seyfeddin "İlyasım has been insisting that he's hungry"

We all smiled as we settled into our seats. When Orhan reached out to take Seyfeddin from his mother, she gently refused, insisting on keeping him in her arms.

"Ahmed, you were late" Zeynep murmured, placing her glass aside as she glanced at him with a raised eyebrow "Is everything alright?"

"Uh... Yes, everything’s good" he smiled calmly, meeting her gaze "I was reading an important book and..."

"Oh, of course you were" Aysel chimed in before he could finish, but as soon as she remembered Orhan was present, she quickly cleared her throat. She caught herself, realizing she couldn’t tease Ahmed about Nisan in front of Orhan, out of respect.

"Validem, what are you doing?" Zeynep asked, her eyes wide with surprise, drawing everyone's attention to her.

"I raised both you and your brother; I know exactly what I’m doing" she replied, shaking her head with a smile. She continued feeding Seyfeddin some sweet, honeyed treats, which he seemed to enjoy, his tiny hands moving eagerly and making soft, repeating sounds like "mah... mah..."

"Seyfeddin can have sweets, but I can't yet?!" said four-year-old Zayd, looking up at his mother with frustration, causing his older brother Yusuf to shake his head at him.

"I want sweets too" Ilyas protested, though his pout couldn’t hide the laughter bubbling up inside him.

"Only if you finish your dinner first" Turhan Sultan replied, raising an eyebrow with a playful smile as she gazed at both Zayd and Ilyas.

"Not fair!" Ilyas protested, crossing his arms in an exaggerated gesture of frustration, giving his grandmother an annoyed look.

"Mommy, Yusuf is laughing at me" Zayd whined, glancing up at his mother with a look of pure innocence on his face.

"No, I'm not" Yusuf insisted, shaking his head, though his voice betrayed him, the faint laughter still evident.

"I’ve never met anyone more stubborn than you two" Zeynep remarked with a serious look, glancing at both of them to make them stop annoying each other.

"Alright, everyone" Orhan chuckled, resting a hand on Ilyas’s shoulder "Finish your dinner first, and then the sweets are yours. Let’s see who can do it the quickest"

They all fell silent, and the children begrudgingly returned to their plates, though teasing smiles and eager glances were exchanged between them, as if too excited to simply finish their food. Even Ilyas, who had been trying to maintain his pout, picked up his fork, knowing his grandmother’s and father’s word was final.

"Such troublemakers" Zeynep sighed softly, shaking her head before turning her attention back to her plate.

"You’re lucky, Seyfeddin'im" Turhan Sultan murmured with a fond smile, watching her grandchildren. She gazed down at Seyfeddin, who was still happily munching on the sweets "You’re too young to be bound by these rules"

"Would you like some sweets as well?" I asked, raising an eyebrow playfully as I whispered to Orhan, who was sitting beside me.

"Of course, I’ll definitely need some sweets tonight" he teased, his voice low as he whispered in my ear, making it nearly impossible for me to suppress a laugh.

"At this point, it’s becoming annoying" I heard Nuray begin, absentmindedly waving her fork in the air as she spoke to Aysel "She’s been such a troublemaker lately. I swear, every time I turn around, she’s knocking something over or getting into places she shouldn’t be"

"She’s always been like that; it’s just that you keep denying it" Aysel chuckled softly, shaking her head.

"I don’t know what to do with her anymore. The other day, I had to follow her to the garden, and you know what?" Nuray paused for effect, her eyes wide in shock "She was chasing a frog"

"A frog?" Aysel raised an eyebrow, a look of disgust crossing her face as she set her fork down.

"Yes" Nuray exclaimed, her eyes wide with disbelief "It was the most dreadful thing! The frog just leaped right into the fountain, and I swear, I almost jumped out of my skin"

"That must be really draining for you. Sorry you had to go through that... and see a frog" Selim said with a smirk, clearly mocking her "A frog? Really?"

"When I’m talking, you stay quiet. You’re not even part of this conversation" Nuray shot back, turning to Selim with a raised eyebrow and a sly smile that couldn’t be ignored.

"Yes, Selim, when your sister is talking, the least you can do is listen" Turhan Sultan remarked with a playful grin, clearly entertained by what her granddaughter was saying. But before she could go on, Selim interrupted her.

"Alright, alright. Please, continue" Selim replied with a mischievous grin, leaning back before turning his attention to Osman, clearly ready to pick up where he left off.

"I was thinking about a hunting trip" Orhan remarked, clearly addressing Ahmed, who was sipping from his cup.

"That would be great" he replied with a calm smile. Before he could say anything more, the boys eagerly began jumping in, each asking if they could come along.

Ahmed rolled his eyes, already anticipating the chaos, knowing full well that tonight, there would be no chance for a quiet conversation. But honestly, most of us didn't mind, it was hard not to enjoy their lively energy. They were funny, refreshing, and it was clear that Turhan Sultan was genuinely happy to be surrounded by all of them.

Once dinner and the conversations had wrapped up, most of the children had either gone to bed, started playing, or were engrossed in their books. The only ones remaining were me, Orhan, Zeynep, and Turhan Sultan, who was gently holding Seyfeddin, who appeared to be on the verge of drifting off to sleep.

"Sultanim" I whispered softly, rising from my seat "Allow me to take him to his cradle so he can rest, and you may have some rest as well"

"Of course" she responded with a warm smile, pressing a soft kiss to his tiny hand before handing him to me. Her eyes met mine, and with a tender tone, she whispered "Thank you, Kızım"

I exchanged a smile with her before stepping away, my gaze lingering for a moment as I saw her sitting between Zeynep and Orhan. With one last glance, I turned and quietly left the chamber.