Light within the Harem

Introducing Farzaneh Sultan, Şehzade Bayezid and Şehzade Ahmed

It was early in the morning that the Harem was in a buzz, Mahidevran had gone into labour, due to her own predicament, Melekşima could not go there in person, so she sent Eşmahan in her stead, Gülfem Hatun was also there to give Mahidevran support.

Both were a little sceptical of Eşmahan's presence, but the young concubine quickly took hold of the Bas Kadin's hand, encouraging her to breathe.

The Valdie Sultan was immediately notified by Daye Hatun, whispers of Mahidevran's labour reached Hurrem's chambers and the second Kadin was pacing slightly after sending Gul Agha and Esma Hatun to gather information.

Mahidevran's screams echoed loudly, making Melekşima wince as Işmilah stood guard at the door, trying to see if she could hear anything.

It was here in the early hours of a Wednesday morning that sound of a newborn babe echoed loudly, Melekşima prayed to Allah that both mother and child were safe.

"Well?" Halimë demanded, when Eşmahan reappeared. "What is it?"

"Mahidevran has given birth to a girl."

"Help me up," Melekşima spoke, holding out her hands to Halimë. "As the Sultan's Haseki and woman, I must go and show support towards the Bas Kadin."

On her way to Mahidevran's chambers, Melekşima noticed that Hurrem and her small entourage were also heading in the same direction, there was a small skip in Hurrem's steps – naturally, she was happy that Mahidevran failed to birth a Şehzade.

But if the child is anything like Mihrimah... Sulieman would still be thrilled. Wonder how those loyal to Mahidevran would act now that their Sultana failed where I have achieved? They will probably find a way to blame me... Like always.

The Valdie held the newborn in her hands as Gulash and Fatima Hatun helped Mahidevran back onto the bed, it was clear that the Bas Kadin was heavily disappointed that she birthed a Sultana and not the promised Şehzade.

The Bas Kadin wondered if the Sultan would make an appearance or if the Valdie would name her daughter, like she had done with Mihrimah.

Her smile slightly faltered at the appearance of Hurrem, who approached the newly born daughter of the Sultan, her eyes widened as Melekşima also came even though she should be on bedrest.

"Melekşima?" The Valdie spoke, voice soft as she observed the heavily pregnant Sultana. "Why are you here? You should be resting..."

"Forgive me, my Valdie but according to tradition and customs, I am the third Kadin – I must show respect towards the Bas Kadin." Melekşima replied, with a small smile, pinning the small 'Evil eye' pendant on the baby's blanket. "No matter what condition I am in."

As if on cue, the doors to Mahidevran's chambers opened and the Sultan walked in, everyone aside from Mahidevran bowed, Melekşima was escorted to the small divan as Sulieman took his newborn daughter.

"Your name is Farzaneh." He whispered, as everyone lowered their heads. "Your name is Farzaneh; your name is Farzaneh."

After the naming ceremony, little Farzaneh Sultan was handed over to her mother to feed, Sulieman gifted Mahidevran a ring, with a ruby centre surrounded by diamonds on a gold setting – it was not as luxurious as Hurrem's or as beautifully crafted as Melekşima's, but Mahidevran accepted it, nonetheless.

Once alone, Mahidevran glanced down at her newborn daughter. "My Farzaneh," She whispered, kissing her on the forehead. "You are finally here, light of my heart."

"Anne?"

Mahidevran glances up, seeing that Mustafa was being escorted by his attendants, she also noticed how Fatima Hatun kept glancing towards his way – perhaps she could gift Fatima to Mustafa...