CONQUEROR| MAGNIFICENT CENTURY|

CHAPTER 54

As the weight of Mahmoud's decisions settled upon the harem, the atmosphere became thick with uncertainty. Neslihan couldn't help but feel a heavy ache in her heart, knowing that soon she would bid farewell to her sons, one by one. Her gaze, once fixed on her husband, had now shifted to the sprawling courtyard beyond the ornate windows of the harem. The flowers bloomed in the late afternoon sun, a stark contrast to the turmoil within the palace walls.

Neslihan's thoughts raced as she contemplated her upcoming journeys. She knew that her role as both mother and sultana demanded sacrifices, and these separations would be the most significant yet. The harem's whispers and Gevherhan's piercing accusations still echoed in her mind, making her journey ahead even more complicated.

Neslihan's worry grew with each passing moment. The prospect of leaving the capital for such an extended period weighed heavily on her. How could she possibly manage being away from her beloved sons, each in different sanjaks, one after the other, for an entire year?

Ahmed, the eldest, was strong and capable, but the realization that her presence would be his guiding light, and soon he'd be left to make decisions without her guidance, gnawed at her maternal instincts.

She had always been there for them, through their laughter and tears, their triumphs and defeats. Now, the very essence of her role as a mother, her unwavering support, would be tested. She sighed, her eyes wandering from the courtyard to her reflection in a nearby mirror. She noticed the worry lines etching themselves deeper into her face.

Deep in thought, she knew that her sons' journey to becoming capable leaders was inevitable, but the prospect of them facing the world alone made her heart ache. How would they manage without her wisdom and protection?

Her thoughts then turned to the emotional toll these separations might take on her sons. Their bond had always been strong, and the thought of Ahmed, Suleiman, Selim, and Orhan missing their mother was as unsettling as her fear of leaving them.

Neslihan finally turned back to the room, where Aynisah, Warda, and Gevherhan awaited her next move. She would need their support during this challenging time, but her gaze settled on Gevherhan, the source of recent tension.

With her eldest son's departure on the horizon, Neslihan couldn't help but wonder if Gevherhan's accusations would become even more relentless. Neslihan braced herself for the trials that lay ahead, determined to ensure her sons' success in the world outside the harem's protective walls.

The harem was abuzz with activity, servants scurrying about, and the sound of hushed conversations filling the air. Neslihan seized the opportunity amidst the commotion and pulled Aynisah aside. With urgency in her eyes, she whispered, "Aynisah, I must speak with you in private, away from prying ears."

Aynisah, ever loyal and understanding, nodded, and they made their way to a quieter, more secluded part of the harem, where they could speak without fear of eavesdroppers.

Once they were alone, Neslihan looked into Aynisah's eyes, her expression a mix of apprehension and determination. "Aynisah, you know how much your brother's recent decisions have weighed on me. Leaving with my sons, one by one, for extended periods... it is a task that terrifies me. I need your help, your influence."

Aynisah furrowed her brow, "What can I do to assist you, dear Neslihan? You know I would do anything to help."

Neslihan took a deep breath, her voice trembling with anxiety. "I must ask a favor of your husband, Suleiman Pasha. He accompanies Ahmed to Manisa, and I believe he could be a key to securing the safety of our sons. I need his guidance, his support, and the wisdom of the Grand Vizier to find loyal subjects who can watch over Ahmed and ensure his protection. It's a dangerous world out there, Aynisah, and I cannot bear the thought of my son being left vulnerable."