Conqueror | Murad III

chapter nine

Manisa was a wonderful place, rich with history and beauty. Unlike Saruhan, where life had felt temporary and lonely, here I had everything I could dream of—my children, status, attention, and friendships that felt genuine. Though Nurbanu was no longer in the province, I found I didn't miss her guidance. I had Gülbahar, Raziye, and Nilüfer, all loyal and caring. Even the harem manager, Halime Daye, who had once been Murad's wetnurse, treated me with respect and camaraderie. I finally felt rooted, as if Manisa itself welcomed me.

I often walked the grand halls, taking in the delicate arches, the intricately carved tiles, and the sounds of the bustling palace life. In these quiet moments, I reflected on history and my future. This place, filled with echoes of past rulers and their consorts, reminded me that I had to play my cards wisely to protect my children and secure their legacy. Murad wasn't the eldest son, but the Haseki title could offer stability for him—and me. If I could follow in the footsteps of powerful women like Hürrem and Nurbanu, Murad might see me as more than just one of many. I needed to make him love me as I loved him.

Suddenly, screams shattered the calm. I stopped, my heart racing, and quickly hid in a nearby alcove. From there, I could see Safiye and Şemsirushar in a fierce confrontation, with Safiye's hand around Şemsirushar's neck, pressing her against the wall.

"You listen to me, and listen well." Safiye's voice was sharp, almost venomous. "I know you've pretended to be me to steal my nights. I know you hate your own daughter. But mark my words: you will have no more children."

Şemsirushar, her face reddening, gasped out, "How dare you? I'm pregnant!"

I felt a surge of anger and worry. Call it bravery, call it foolishness, but I couldn't stay hidden. I stepped forward, heart pounding. "Safiye! Let her go. You're risking everything!"

Safiye's head snapped toward me, eyes blazing. "Silence, you Italian whore."

Ignoring her insult, I held my ground. "She's pregnant! This is against Islam, Safiye. You'll get yourself in trouble, and your children could be taken from you. Think of Hümaşah and Mehmed. Would you risk them losing their mother?"

For a moment, I thought my words might reach her. But then, her fingers tightened even more around Şemsirushar's throat, her fury unfazed. Just then, a voice thundered through the corridor.

"What is the meaning of this?!"

Murad appeared, and we all bowed, though I could feel his disapproving gaze. He stepped between Safiye and Şemsirushar, his expression dark with anger.

"Hatice, take Şemsirushar to the infirmary. Safiye, come with me."

"But Murad, she started it!" Safiye protested, her voice now a desperate plea.

"Save it, Safiye," he said coldly, his face a mask of hurt. "Come with me." He held out a hand, waiting, while I rushed to Şemsirushar's side.

I bowed again, murmuring, "Of course, Your Highness," before gently guiding the shaken Şemsirushar toward the infirmary. She shrugged off my hand, too upset to accept help, and I could hardly blame her.

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾　　☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙

"Halime Daye." I inclined my head in respect as I entered her chamber.

She looked up with a knowing expression. "Hatice Kadın, what brings you here?"

I sighed, still processing the scene I'd just witnessed. "Please... cancel the festivities for Şemsirushar's pregnancy. She is no longer expecting."

Halime's eyes softened with understanding as she nodded, and I felt a pang of sadness. Life in the harem was never simple, never safe, and I realized once again the importance of securing my place. My children's future depended on it.

Murad saw everything 🫣