"Clear the road! Sultan Ahmed Han Hazretdleri!" My mother, Gülbahar and I observed as my father rode on his beautiful horse, and the army returned from the campaign back home.
"My Ahmed, finally he is back!" Mother sighed happily as I continued observing through my binoculars. Father triumphantly rode to his throne, hopped off, and gracefully sat down. He motioned for the Janissaries to rise, and everyone called his name.
I felt so proud and happy as we progressed in Persia, but something, or rather someone, caught my eye. Standing besides the noble statesmen and pashas stood two young gentlemen, perhaps in their twenties. They didn't look ottoman, but instead like...foreigners?, I thought to myself. I was curious, but then Gülbahar ruined my mood, again.
"Look, it's Mustafa Pasha!" Sure enough, "Prince Charming" was standing besides my father looking like he was the best one there. I growled.
"Fidan! What is up with you lately!?!" Valide side-eyed me as she kept watching. I didn't respond, but kept scowling at Mustafa Pasha from a distance.
"Mother, who are those two handsome men?" Gülbahar asked what I couldn't. I bit my tongue.
"Darling, those are the Crimean princes. Hanzade Sahin Giray and Mehmet Giray, of course!" Mother smiled as she rubbed Gülbahar's shoulder. "Perhaps you will meet them soon."
I felt a spark of interest at the mention of the Crimean princes. They were certainly intriguing figures, and their presence at the court added an element of excitement. As my mother spoke, I couldn't help but wonder if perhaps there was an opportunity here for me to steer the situation in my favor.
After the initial excitement of my father's return and the Giray brothers settled down, I found myself alone in my chambers, pondering over the possibilities.
This is Chapter 2 of my new story