Dynasties: Mahidevran's Revenge

Truths uncovered

Edit: fixed typos and things that made little sense. English is not my first language so I apologise in advance.

Months after the announcement of Mahidevran's second pregnancy, the atmosphere within Topkapi Palace was filled with anticipation as 1522 drew on. It had transpired that at least three months had passed since it became known that Suleiman was alive, and a couple of weeks had gone by since the tidings of his campaign's success in Rhodes rippled through the capital. Suleiman had returned home to Constantinople safely, much to the relief of Valide, who awaited him eagerly alongside his children and their respective mothers. Firuze maintained her usual impassivity, her demeanour as quiet as always. In stark contrast, Hürrem fidgeted restlessly, her mood dark and brooding due to some unseen concern. Strangely, Mahidevran exhibited an unusual eagerness to see him, driven by a desire to showcase the state of her pregnancy.

"ATTENTION! MAKE WAY FOR HIS MAJESTY, SULTAN SULEIMAN!" a guard proclaimed, his voice echoing as the eunuchs dutifully opened the ornate doors to allow Suleiman's entrance.

Upon entering, Suleiman's gaze was immediately drawn to his mother first, and then to Mahidevran, whose pregnancy appeared noticeably advance, something that filled him with an overwhelming sense of joy and pride. Except for Valide, the mothers of his children present bowed respectfully before Suleiman.

"My beautiful mother, it brings me joy to see that all remains well in your absence," Suleiman said, greeting his mother with a gentle kiss upon her hand, a gesture steeped in familial affection.

"I am profoundly grateful to Allah for ensuring your safe return, replete with victorious tidings-making both your family and your homeland proud, especially after all the distressing news we endured, my lion. We all were very afraid," Ayse Hafsa replied warmly, her eyes shining with maternal pride.

Suleiman nodded, acknowledging her words. "Though the campaign we encountered difficulties and numerous obstacles, Allah surely heard your prayers, dear mother. We overcame them all. I nearly lost my life on two occasions, because someone tried to stab me when we were praying yet Ibrahim valiantly saved me. Thankfully, my injuries were superficial and the doctors are attending Ibrahim's injuries."

As he spoke, Suleiman turned his attention to Hürrem, feeling his demeanour shift from relaxed to tense. Contemplating whether to tell her something, he ultimately chose to bypass her completely, seeking solace in the company of Mehmed, Mihrimah, and Selim instead. Hürrem, increasingly disheartened by Suleiman's indifference, remained stoic, suppressing her urges to voice any complaints. Yet, jealousy simmered beneath her composed exterior as she observed Suleiman's affectionate demeanour toward Mahidevran. Every sign of admiration Suleiman showed only increased Hürrem's inner turmoil.

Suleiman's countenance brightened upon reaching Mahidevran, who appeared more radiant than ever since his last visit.

"Your Majesty, I prayed nightly to Allah for your safe return, and now, look at the joyous victory we celebrate," Mahidevran greeted him, pressing her lips gently to Suleiman's hand.

"My moon of good fortune, your news has brought me happiness. My son, how he's doing Mahidevran?" Suleiman inquired, placing a tender hand on her noticeably swollen belly. At that moment, a gentle kick from the baby reverberated beneath his palm, inducing laughter from both parents.

"As you can see, my Sultan, while my little prince is a tad restless at this moment, but he's always well-behaved," Mahidevran replied with a genuine smile, which prompted Suleiman to affectionately kiss her forehead in the presence of the gathering.