Original subtitles

Attention! His Grace Prince Selim!

Welcome, Your Highness.

Your chamber is ready.

I sent His Majesty's letter an answer.

I do not know if it'll work but I've written what lies in my heart.

The great Rumi said:

"If you feel a pain or regret within yourself,

it is a proof of Allah's help and love towards you."

Even if His Majesty does not forgive you for this mistake, he'll understand.

At least that you did not have any bad intentions.

I hope so Atmaca, I hope so.

Come in!

Your Grace.

Palace Guard Commander Cafer Agha arrived from the capital.

What does he want? Did His Majesty send him?

He said he wanted to talk about the Persian campaign.

If you accept him into your presence, he will explain in detail.

Let him in.

Welcome, how are you?

I pray for your health, Your Majesty.

For me, the highest honor is to breathe the same air as you!

Please accept my gratitude for having me appointed as the Royal Regent.

I hope you realize the burden you'll carry.

I entrust to you my throne!

I will do everything in my power to be worthy of you.

Be sure that I will not bring you shame.

Your Grace.

As you know, with the recommendation of Rustem Pasha, His Majesty...

fully trusts Persian Shahzade Alqas.

They're certain that they'll return with victory.

-But-- -Don't you agree?

Of course, I would love to see His Majesty return with a great victory.

But it doesn't seem possible.

As Alqas Mirza is not as powerful as people think.

Tell me if you know anything.

He said that Turkmen tribes would support him...

But they didn't support him last time, when he fought his brothers.

Now this changes everything.

Alqas Mirza obeys His Majesty's commands.

That's the point.

How can we trust someone who betrayed his own brother and family?

How can we be sure that he won't let us down?

What's on your mind Cafer Agha? Spit it out.

I think you should talk to His Majesty.

This campaign must be canceled.

I know that you also don't want to go on this campaign.

His Majesty considered it appropriate.

No one can question his decisions!

Your Grace--

If that's all, you may leave.

Oncoming days will bring many new events.

I hope we can manage to end this campaign successfully.

Especially for you, Your Grace.

Atmaca, follow this man like a shadow.

It's obvious he's up to something.

Find out his goal and his collaborators.

As you wish, Your Grace.

-Mihrimah. -Your Highness.

You don't seem to be in a good mood.

Probably because of Rustem.

I hear, you'll wait until he returns from the campaign to divorce him.

I decided it would be the most appropriate way.

For you or your mother?

Although we are Sultanas, we are not free with our actions.

We must act with our mind, not with our emotions, am I right?

Powerful feelings such as love, will go their own way.

If you try to hinder them...

...your heart or your mind will be torn into pieces.

What are you waiting for, Your Highness?

When will you reveal Sultana Fatma's secret?

When the time comes, Gulbahar.

Let Sultana Fatma enjoy these days.

May her love become greater.

Let it grow...

...so that when I take it away from her, may her heart be torn into pieces!

What is this disease, physician?

It won't even let me sleep.

Sometimes, due to sadness and sorrow, rash appears on the body.

If it's a regular one, it should stop soon.

What if it doesn't?

May it be Aleppo boil?

God forbid! We must wait a bit more to be certain.

You may leave.

Matron Afife.

At your orders, Your Majesty.

Do not worry, I'm fine.

I hope so!

I pray for you day and night.

At least we should inform Sultana Hurrem.

Her healing hands would be your cure.

I said no one will know!

This will be my home, Canfeda!

The day will come when I'll move into this palace, to never return again.

You should not forget what you've gone through...

...that everything depends on a thread.

If people hear about what happened to us, we couldn't even stay at Manisa.

That matter is over, Canfeda. His Grace corrected his mistake.

He knows now, how hard it is to take the throne.

God willing, Your Highness.

Unpack my stuff. We cannot make Sultana Hurrem wait.

I will not lie, I did not want to welcome Selim at first.

I have not forgotten what happened at the dinner you hosted.

After that, he snitched on all of us.

Those days are over, Cihangir. Selim is your brother.

Don't disrespect him. Or it will devastate our mother.

Did you change your mind about the divorce because of that?

That mother would be sad?

I did not change my mind. We'll divorce in due time.

You made a mistake Mihrimah!

You should have divorced Rustem.

You should have done it while you had the chance.

The promises that are made to you will not be kept.

Attention! His Grace Prince Selim!

Mihrimah.

Since I couldn't see Cihangir at the welcoming ceremony, I thought he was sick.

As you can see Selim, I'm fine. Welcome!

I'm not welcome here at all, Cihangir.

Aren't you happy to see me here?

Of course, you were expecting Brother Mustafa.

His Majesty had Mustafa in his heart, as well.

But, you are such a lucky prince that...

...you get everything you don't deserve.

First Saruhan province, and now the regency.

Do not start again!

Now is not the time or place to talk about this.

I don't deserve it...

...but a prince who goes behind His Majesty's back...

by secretly marrying does, is it?

Are you innocent Selim?

-We know what you did in Manisa! -Cihangir!

Becoming regent won't change the truth.

The throne which has been entrusted to you today...

...will return to his owner tomorrow.

And you will never be that person!

Maybe so, maybe not.

At least I have an opportunity.

You don't even have that.

There will be many campaigns, many victories...

...and you'll always stay here, between these walls...

...hiding behind mother's skirt!

Did you have to say it?

You know how sensitive he is.

He grew up fast, may God protect him!

My grandson will be a brave prince.

How are you?

Seeing you, even better!

How are things in Manisa? I hope there isn't any trouble.

It's all right, Your Highness. Just as you wanted.

And my prince, Selim?

Does he keep his oath?

Do not worry.

It's been several months, and His Grace has not drunk a drop.

Nurbanu?

He drank few times but in reasonable quantities, Your Highness.

We have already talked about it, he won't drink when His Majesty's here.

Very good! This is what I wanted.

Nothing more.

As long as His Majesty does not know.

I have disappointed you, Your Majesty.

I realized my mistake.

I made yet another mistake.

I shook your trust.

My conscience is quite guilty.

My sole wish is to get on my knees...

...and beg for forgiveness, when you go for the campaign.

Come in!

Your Majesty, Prince Cihangir is here.

Let him in.

Your Majesty.

Cihangir, what happened? What's wrong?

If you let me...

...I would like to join the campaign with you.

Come, let's sit down.

Where did this idea come from?

I haven't stepped a foot outside of this palace for some time.

I'm stuck between the safety of the palace walls.

While my brothers leave for the campaigns and provinces...

...I could only say farewell.

I could only watch.

Tell me what happened.

Something upset you, it's obvious.

When I was a child...

I thought that my condition would improve...

...that I would be like my brothers.

It did not happen.

As I grew up, so did the burden I feel.

Heavier and heavier.

Sometimes, it feels so hard to carry it...

Especially in this palace.

Your Majesty...

I know, I will never be like my brothers.

But I would like to feel what they feel for once.

Like a Prince.

You are a Prince already!

The reason for not joining any campaigns until now...

...is your age and your health.

I'm old enough now.

And when it comes to health, your best doctors will go with you.

If something happens to me, they can intervene immediately.

Cihangir, I'm going to Persia.

It will be a long campaign.

You know about the terrain and the weather.

It will be very tiresome.

But I will think about what you said.

You look beautiful in this dress. I missed you very much.

Mom, daddy is here!

Gulbahar, take Humashah to her room.

I asked you to inform me before set foot here.

I will not ask anyone for permission to see my daughter.

We made a deal.

Tell me if you'll break the deal.

So that I can act accordingly.

Mihrimah, I'll be leaving for campaign in a few months.

You will not see me for a long time.

If I can return safe and sound, I know what's going to happen.

You will divorce me.

And what will happen later, Mihrimah? Did you think about it at all?

-Rustem... -I'll tell you!

I will continue to live as the Grand Vizier...

...and you will be a widow.

But according to the traditions, they'll marry you off as soon as possible.

With one of the Pashas or Lords that you don't like at all.

You're wrong.

Mother promised me.

She'll get me married with whoever I want this time.

Even if it's true, that man you'll marry will take orders from me.

You will lead a life in a remote province where you will be powerless.

Is this what you want?

He might get his orders from you, right.

But he will get one more thing from you.

The woman you love.

I do not know how to put this into words.

You wrote to me that a man receives the biggest blows...

...from people who are the closest and dearest.

This is true, Brother Mustafa.

I'm having a hard time to write this out of shame.

But I'll explain everything when we meet.

Until then, just know that I have never betrayed you.

He back stabbed you.

Now he sends you a letter shamelessly?

He wrote that he never betrayed me.

He'll tell me personally what happened.

God knows what lies he'll spew!

We should listen to him anyways, Your Highness.

Maybe there's an explanation.

There is no excuse for betrayal.

If he decided to pretend to be our friend, and acted like an enemy...

...he will pay for this.

We will expose his relationship with Huricihan.

We've already talked about it, mother. This will not happen!

Why are you still defending him?

Because of Huricihan?

It's about my honor.

How can you even think that I would do such a vile thing?

Mihrunnisa, do you think the same way?

Everyone knows that His Grace is just and has a good conscience.

Unfortunately they use this against him.

And why are here?

Everyone knows that you're the Prince's legal wife now.

Don't forget, you made a promise to me when you got married.

When are you going to use the strength you were talking about?

Come in.

Your Grace...

You haven't talked to me for days.

Let alone talk, you won't even look me in the eye.

I do not know if I'm alive or not?

Am I still on earth or in hell?

Get back to your room, Huricihan.

I cannot even forgive myself...

...that's why I cannot expect that from you either.

But I do not regret it, Bayezid.

I was forced to do this.

They didn't give me any other option.

Either I was going to kill myself or...

I couldn't lose you Bayezid!

I did it for you.

For our love.

Isn't that worth anything to you?

For days I have been fighting with myself.

Part of me wants to forget about everything and hug you.

While the other part opposes it...

...and reminds me of your betrayal, Huricihan.

If you do not want me anymore...

...and if you do not love me...

...if our love doesn't exist, then neither do I.

I accept your punishment.

Either take my life...

...or command me to leave.

They're both the same for me.

I hope you bring good news from Amasya.

Prince Mustafa doesn't support the campaign, but...

...it's obvious that he won't oppose.

The campaign will take place, you can not prevent it.

In that case, Sultan Suleiman is going to meet his death!

What is Alqas Mirza up to?

He's playing with fire, the traitor.

He secretly meets Sultan Suleiman's sister, Sultana Fatma.

On top of everything, now this...

Do not linger any longer, go back to Mirza, don't get him suspicious.

Alright.

We should write a letter to Turkmen tribes, Abbas.

They should know they'll be rewarded greatly...

...if they support me during the fight for the throne.

I'll take care of it, Your Grace.

Don't neglect this.

Where have you been? You were outside for a long time.

I was at the market.

I brought the necklace you ordered for Sultana Fatma.

Come in.

-Your Grace. -Nurbanu!

What a beauty!

You dazzle me.

The guards sent a message.

They brought the horse you want to gift to His Majesty.

Good. I'll present to him at an appropriate time.

-Who brought this to you? -Do not worry.

I told them to be careful.

It's not too much.

Not here Selim. Not even a sip!

If Sultana Hurrem catches us breaking the promise, it'd be terrible.

We can't give an account for it.

Did you talk to my mother?

She questioned me when I first came.

Especially on whether you broke your oath or not.

-What did you say? -What could I?

I guard this secret, as well as all our other secrets.

But you have to help me with this.

At least do not drink in His Majesty's palace.

This palace is strangling me, Nurbanu.

Every stone is crushing me.

Although I was born and raised here.

I should feel happy and safe.

But I feel the opposite.

It's as if everyone is waiting for me to make a mistake.

If that's the case, why do you give them an opportunity?

You are the heir now.

The royal regent.

Do not let down His Majesty.

The only thing that pleases me is His Majesty's support.

He's by my side.

And your existence...

-Mother. -Cihangir.

Do not bother.

My lion!

-I hope you are not in pain? -I'm fine, mother.

I talked to the doctors.

Nothing prevents me from joining the campaign.

Why do you insist Cihangir?

I don't want to stay away from you.

Your situation is sensitive.

You even returned from Kutahya, the moment you went there.

I'm worried sick that something bad will happen to you.

Do not make me go through this again.

You only think about yourself mother!

Mihrimah and I are living the life you have chosen for us.

You are not interested in our wishes or what could make us happy.

-Cihangir-- -I do not know about Mihrimah...

...but I won't tolerate this any longer.

Now with your permission, I need to go to the bathhouse.

This is a purebred Arabian horse, Your Majesty.

According to my stablemaster, no other horse can match this.

It has unique features.

It's not worthy of you but...

...if you accept, you'll make your subject Selim very happy.

What makes this horse superior?

First of all, it's strong and durable.

But most importantly, it's loyal and obedient.

Strong, durable and obedient, huh?

If you do not like it...

On the contrary, I liked it very much.

Especially that it is hard to find even a prince with similar qualities.

-I accept your gift. May God give you better ones.

Amin.

Be careful during my absence.

The infidels always lurk in the shadows.

If you show any weakness, they'll come out of their covers...

...and hit you in the weakest spot.

I learned my lesson, Your Majesty.

I promised to you and the Creator.

I won't be a prisoner of my weaknesses.

Especially now, when His Majesty's throne is entrusted to me.

Prepare my horse.

Let's see if it's good as they say.

Your Highness, welcome!

Shahzade is waiting for you, I'll inform him.

Tell the guards not to wait here, let them come when I return.

-Your Highness, for your safety-- -Do as I say Melek!

This attracts more attention.

Come in!

Your Highness.

Sultana Fatma went to see the Shahzade.

Everything is ready, right? Did you find witnesses?

Do not worry, Your Highness. Your orders were carried out accordingly.

Did you tell them I'll have their heads off in case of any mishaps?

Good!

The bird is in the cage. It's time to burn that cage!

Your Highness.

I wish it was possible to host you at the palace appointed to me.

This is more appropriate.

If I were to set foot at your palace, everyone would hear about it.

I've been dreaming of this moment for days.

You're in front of me again!

Compared to your beauty, these stones have no value.

If you excuse me.

Your face even overshadows the sun.

I do not know what is happening to me...

I feel embarrassed.

It's been a long time...

...since I last felt this way.

I was hopeless as well.

Love was a distant chance for me.

Until you appeared in front of me.

You? What are you doing here?

By the order of Prince Mustafa, I am here to kill you.

But first, you will tell me everything you know.

Who are you and who do you serve?

Who will kill who? I can cut your throat right now.

Cafer Agha, speak!

Who sent you to Prince Mustafa?

What is your goal? Speak!

The man you talked to at the market was one of Alqas' men!

What business do you have with him? Speak!

I will!

But under one condition.

-What condition? You're dying! -My son!

He's sleeping upstairs. Get him out of here.

I don't want him to see me like this.

I have a friend, Sir Ali.

He's a tradesman at the bazaar, he sells carpets. Take him to him.

First, explain everything!

Promise me first.

You won't leave him here! You'll get him out.

Promise me!

I promise!

I want to hear it. Say, who will you take him to?

I will give him to Sir Ali.

-The carpet tradesman. -The carpet tradesman! Now tell me!

These are my last days in Istanbul.

If it was possible, I would've liked to spend every moment with you.

That's what I wish as well.

Unfortunately, truth encircled us like a wildfire.

It's right in between us.

Neither can I reach you nor you can reach me

Who can stop the rain falling, Sultana?

Who can prevent the sunrise?

Not like this.

Not here, not like this.

You know our traditions as well as I do.

I know, but my heart does not heed to any tradition.

The heart may ache,

but its burning resolves many matters,

A midnight prayer can ward off many a hundred afflictions.

Pay no attention to your beloved's coquetry and cruelty,

A single blink of the eye can dispel countless sorrows.

What's happening?

Abbas!

Who are you? What do you want?

There was a complaint, that adultery is being committed here.

Adultery?

Cihangir insists on going to the campaign.

I do not know who advises him...

Lately, he's become rebellious like all of you!

I am listening.

You must have something to say as you insisted for dinner.

About the letter, mother.

I'm talking about the fake letter that Sultana Fatma wrote.

You said that this insult would not be left unanswered.

Do not rush.

When the time comes, I will make Sultana Fatma regret this!

No need, I've taken care of everything.

Are you crazy?

Do we look like we're committing adultery?

Tell this to the judge!

We came by upon a complaint.

-Take them away. To the dungeons! -Don't you dare!

I'll have your heads off!

How dare you? There is a Sultana standing before you!

I'm Sultana Fatma!

Who are you trying to fool? Are you kidding with us?

What would a Sultana do in a place like this?

Especially with a man!

Where is Melek?

If you talk about the man and woman inside, they too will be tried.

Now move it!

You fool!

What if what I say is true?

If I'm really a Sultana?

Do you know what will happen to you then?

And who are you?

I am the brother of Persian Shah, Tahmasp.

My name is Alqas Mirza.

You probably heard of him as he was welcomed with a ceremony.

How can we know that you are telling the truth?

Do you have any evidence?

Let me send a message to the palace.

Then the truth will be revealed.

Your head is on the line...

...so think it through.

What did you do, Mihrimah?

You wanted to know if I would have my revenge on her.

She got what she deserved!

You are talking about a Sultana, sister of His Majesty.

How could you deem her worthy of such a vile act?

Didn't you think about His Majesty?

It's about the honor of our dynasty! How could you do that?

It is not me who ignores dynasty's honor. It's Sultana Fatma.

I wanted to reveal her true face. She had it coming.

-Fahriye? -At your command, Your Highness.

Prepare my carriage immediately.

I cannot believe what you did!

How could you do these?

Now everyone will think it's me.

They will say that I exposed such an ugly truth.

Do not worry.

I'll take the blame, I will talk to His Majesty.

You won't even say a word!

No one will know you did this. Understand?

-Mother-- -Understand?

Do not leave your palace.

At least until we clean this mess.

I'm warning you for the last time.

Don't bite more than you can chew!

Or I'll hurt you so bad, no one can save you.

Certainly someone tracked us. They set us up.

How could I be so careless?

How? How could I be so foolish?

Do not blame yourself, this happened because of me.

I willingly walked into the fire.

God damn it!

Look at us now!

It's not so bad actually.

They will banish you at the most.

And I will lose my head.

At the end, they'll say I died because of love.

No.

I sent Melek after Matron Afife.

She will get us out of here without anyone's notice.

It will be covered up.

His Majesty will not know about us.

And how will you silence those informed on us?

When we get out of here, we'll find a way to deny it.

We'll both deny it.

Your Highness.

Rustem?

One of your guards wanted to inform the palace...

...upon seeing the Janissaries.

Be thankful that the guard came to me.

Matron Afife!

What's going on woman?

- You look pale as a ghost.

There's something you need to know.

Lokman Agha, get back to your duties.

Do not ask what happened, Matron Afife.

The situation is severe, we are done for!

Speak up woman, what happened?

Melek, Sultana Fatma wants to see you!

Sultana Fatma has not returned to the palace yet.

No one knows anything.

Very good! Inform Rustem immediately.

He should cover this up discreetly.

What will happen to Sultana Fatma? Will you protect her?

I won't let it go any further.

Sultan Fatma will give an account to His Majesty...

...but only we will know about it.

Do not stand there! Inform Rustem Pasha immediately!

One of you tell His Majesty that I want to see him.

As you wish, Your Highness.

-Get ready, we're leaving. -Who are you?

I arrived while you were sleeping.

My name--

My name is Tugrul.

-I'm an acquaintance of your father. -Where is dad?

Where did he go?

Your father...

Your father went to Egypt for his duty.

He'll be there for some time. I don't know when will he be back.

But there is someone named Sir Ali, a tradesman at the bazaar.

You know him right?

Good.

You'll stay with him until your father returns.

Come on, get ready.

Get ready.

I do not want it either, but Cihangir is right.

He grew up.

It's his right to join the campaigns just like the other princes.

There's still time.

I will talk and convince him.

He'll change his mind.

As his health is the most important.

Correct.

What did you want to tell me, Hurrem?

Lokman Agha said you want to talk about some matters.

I... I don't know how to tell you, Suleiman...

...but you must know...

Sultana Fat...

Come in!

Your Majesty, Sultana Fatma is here.

Let her wait.

I already told her that, but she insists on seeing you!

Let her in!

Did something bad happen between you two, Hurrem?

-Your Majesty. -Come closer, Fatma.

Forgive me for insisting.

But I wanted you to hear from me about a situation that concerns me.

Of course, if Hurrem did not tell you anything about it?

- I'm listening.

I've seen Rustem Pasha.

He said that Persian Prince Alqas Mirza wants to marry me.

Marry?

Where did this idea come from?

He spoke with Rustem Pasha.

And Pasha wanted to ask me for my opinion before talking to you.

According to his words...

...in order to marry me...

...he accepts the Ebu Hanefi's way of Islam.

Of course, I cannot comment on this matter.

But I wanted to tell you that...

...no matter the decision, you know the best.

I would accept it as well.

Stay here.

Peace be with you.

-Do you want some? -No, I'd like to ask you a person.

Where is the store of carpet tradesman Sir Ali?

If you came for the funeral, you're too late.

We buried him last week.

May he rest in peace! He was a good man indeed.

May he rest in peace.

Where is his home? Where does his family live?

He was a lonely man.

No one but shopkeepers came to his funeral.

Thank you.

Yusuf...

Sir Ali has passed away.

I guess your father didn't know.

Don't you have anyone else? That you can stay with?

Rustem Pasha!

Your Highness, I wish you a good morning.

You said Alqas Mirza wants to marry Sultana Fatma.

I hope you have a good excuse for it.

It was me who first heard about the last night's incident.

I went to see them immediately.

They were in such a hopeless situation...

...they willingly agreed to anything I said.

I made a deal with them.

What deal?

I could not even imagine that I would find you in such a situation, Your Highness.

It's not what you think, Your Grace.

I had to talk to the Sultana about important issues.

I invited her here.

Your Highness?

I do not have to explain myself to you, Pasha!

This situation cannot be justified in any way, Your Highness.

If His Majesty learns what happened here tonight...

...we all know what might happen.

Say what you want!

Get married with Alqas Mirza!

How dare you, Rustem Pasha?

Are you mocking us?

Of course not. I wouldn't dare.

I'm just telling how you could get rid of this situation.

First, according to tradition, Shahzade should change his religious sect.

He will agree, as his head is on the line.

Later, with the consent of His Majesty, a wedding will take place.

What will you gain from this?

I only think about the dynasty's honor...

...and the future of this mighty state.

I do not have any other gains.

Do you think you can fool us?

I can see the devil inside your mind.

What is your goal?

Tell me.

This is the best option for everyone.

Everyone, you say?

Honestly, I wonder who is included in this group.

Is Mihrimah included?

You want to get revenge!

As I said, Your Highness, I just...

You do this not because of me...

...but because of Mihrimah!

You want to take revenge on her.

And even from Sultana Hurrem.

-Isn't that right? -What kind of a deal is this?

You gave Sultana Fatma what she wants!

Tell me, what are you hiding from me?

Tell me.

What did they promise you?

I only protected His Majesty's and dynasty's honor.

You should have thought about it before informing on Sultana Fatma.

It has nothing to do with me.

Mihrimah did it.

Answer my question now.

What did they give you?

I am the Grand Vizier of this mighty empire, Your Highness!

I do not need anything from them!

Please stop doubting my loyalty every time!

We're on the brink of a campaign.

I do not want my efforts to be in vain...

...because I've been working on it for months.

If His Majesty learned of this incident...

...he would immediately execute Alqas Mirza...

...and the Persia campaign would be canceled!

Was marriage plot necessary?

You could've covered it up some other way!

Then Sultana Fatma would stay in the palace.

And continue her schemes and plots.

But now a wedding will take place.

And she will leave forever.

In addition, she will go very far. Isn't that what you wanted?

What is His Majesty refuses?

In fact Your Highness, this wedding is a great political opportunity.

Tahmasp will be dethroned and Alqas Mirza will take his place.

As the dynasty's son-in-law.

What happened, Atmaca?

I wasn't aware that you came to the capital.

I have important news.

A man that goes by the name Cafer came to Amasya.

His Grace wanted me to follow him as he got suspicious.

Who is this Cafer?

From the palace servants.

He's the commander of gate guards.

He met with someone at the bazaar immediately. A man named Abbas..

Alqas Mirza's personal guard.

He is a spy.

Tahmasp sent him to keep an eye on his brother.

We know what he's up to.

He should have killed Alqas Mirza long ago.

That's the point.

His duty is not to kill Alqas Mirza.

His target is His Majesty.

Your mighty Majesty.

Rustem Pasha informed me that you want to marry my sister, Sultana Fatma.

I'm thankful for the Pasha.

As he told Your Majesty about my wish.

I hope you'll excuse my audacity.

You are a Shahzade that belongs to the Safavid Dynasty.

And Sultana Fatma belongs to my dynasty.

Such a wedding, according to the traditions of both dynasties...

...is quite impossible.

Your Majesty...

...I promise you that if you agree...

...and judge this subject of yours worthy of Sultana Fatma...

...I will do everything...

...that's needed for this marriage to happen.

If that's all, you may leave.

Your Highness.

What do you say, Sokollu?

Alqas Mirza is undoubtedly highly important for us, Your Majesty.

If he can replace Tahmasb, as you wish, then this marriage...

...will strengthen his loyalty.

Tahmasb can be ousted, yet...

...will the Persian nation accept a Shah from our sect?

It's indeed unlikely for them to accept him.

But the Shahzade will be strong and powerful only thanks to you.

Therefore, after some time, people might accept him.

In fact, they might even follow their Shah's footsteps.

-What is your advice? -Better be careful, Your Majesty.

Maybe we can engage them for now.

Then we can delay the wedding until the end of the campaign.

As only God knows how this campaign will end.

I appreciate your wit, Sokollu.

But do not forget, as long as you serve me.

Alqas Mirza will head out for the campaign before anyone else.

Cafer Agha told me that...

...they would meet with His Majesty in Van.

Abbas will assassinate there.

They have thought of everything.

Assassination is bound to happen in this situation.

They infiltrated the palace, captain.

We should immediately warn His Majesty.

Does anyone else know this?

-You. -Good.

Then this intelligence will remain a secret between us.

I do not understand. Are we going to kill Abbas ourselves?

It means that we will not interfere in this matter, Atmaca.

You have not seen or heard anything.

Are you serious?

Will we ignore this? Will we be quiet?

There's good in every evil, Atmaca.

Let the fate do its work.

Don't forget...

...a new era can't come, without ending the former one.

Did His Majesty receive Alqas Mirza?

His Majesty granted an audience.

There were no mishaps or we would know about it.

That's good.

Leave us alone.

What do you think you're doing?

How dare you meddle in my business?

Does your business include humiliating a dynasty member?

What's going on?

Why is that affection towards Sultana Fatma all of a sudden?

Both you and my mother defend her against me.

Did you forget what she did to me?

You should be thankful for giving you the opportunity...

...you've been waiting for years.

-Thanks to her, you will get rid of me. -You're doing this on purpose, aren't you?

You wanted to get revenge on me, by hindering me.

Mihrimah...

What exactly makes you so angry?

The fact that I hindered you...

...or the marriage between Fatma and Alqas?

What do you do, Sumbul Agha? Tell me.

Does time pass by faster outside?

No Fahriye, it's nothing like that.

Being free, being able to live without taking orders is good, for sure.

But loneliness is the hard part.

There's nothing to do. I'm bored to death I swear!

The fun and excitement here is nowhere to be found, Fahriye!

Come back then.

No, that part is over for me.

I'll find something to have fun with.

Where is Her Highness?

She's in her chambers. But she's not in the mood these days.

I am aware.

Current status of Sultana Mihrimah upsets her dearly.

Did they get divorced?

Her Highness would never allow it.

But I don't know what'll happen after the latest incident.

I see, the palace is like a boiling cauldron without me around.

Feed him and give him a place to sleep, that'll do it.

He will help you do your chores.

Where did this boy come from?

Did a woman leave him with you?

Do not ask questions, if you don't want to, tell me!

Okay, Sir. Easy.

I'll handle it.

Will I stay here?

This is your home now.

Behave.

Goodbye.

Your Highness, I was worried about you. I hope you are healthy.

You did good, Sumbul.

If you hadn't, I would've visited you myself.

I feel depressed when I don't share my troubles.

As I get depressed, my burden gets heavier.

Your Highness, I don't know if this will relieve you but...

...maybe it will help you relax a bit.

I brought you coffee.

Sumbul, you won't believe me...

...but I was thinking about that coffee constantly.

I can still remember the taste. It has a strong effect.

Your Highness, I'll prepare it for if you let me.

What is coffee, Sumbul Agha? A healing herb?

I don't know if it is medicinal but it has a strange taste.

Especially with some Turkish delight with it...

Your Highness, I ground it better this time, it's so good.

Prepare some after lunch, we'll have it.

Fahriye should get to taste it.

I hope so.

Your Highness, we were just chatting with Fahriye now.

I hear that the situation of Prince Cihangir saddens you deeply.

He does not even look at me.

He says that if he doesn't join the campaign...

...he will stop talking to me forever.

As if I prevent him just in spite.

He has reached coming-of-age era, Your Highness.

His blood is boiling.

He'll rightfully have these wishes as a Prince.

But as you know Sumbul, the campaign conditions are severe.

How can I let him?

And even if I do, His Majesty will not.

Your Highness, it's not my place to say this but...

...we need to keep the Prince's heart and mind busy.

I've forgotten about him because of his brothers.

You're right. The time has come for him.

Why are you following me? Get out of here!

Go away boy!

And don't you leave that place or you'll have nowhere to stay.

You're not my father's friend.

Otherwise you wouldn't leave me there.

I'm busy, kid, with important matters. I cannot take care of you.

Come in.

Your Grace.

What did my mother order?

Sultana Hurrem ordered a concubine prepared for you.

She'll seek an audience tonight.

Why, all of a sudden?

It's not all of a sudden, Your Grace.

According to the traditions, you should have your own harem.

Guards will arrive shortly. If you have any questions, ask them.

Come in.

-I informed the Prince, Your Highness.

-What did he say? -He didn't say anything at all.

But I saw his face, he was very anxious.

The servants are preparing the girl.

Good.

Tell that girl...

...if she can make my son happy, I'll make her happy.

Otherwise, she'll be thrown out.

Do not worry, Your Highness.

What is the situation?

The ointment I applied showed its effect.

The wound has begun to dry up.

It turns out to be an insignificant boil.

Thank God.

- Inform His Majesty that I came.

As you wish, Your Highness.

Do you have any other complaints, Your Majesty?

Do you have any pain?

I do not think it's important, but sometimes my legs hurt.

I guess, it's from walking too much. It gets better when I sit down.

Come in.

Your Majesty, Sultana Hurrem has arrived.

Let her wait. Get out.

Matron Afife!

Your Highness, His Majesty is ready to receive you.

Matron Afife.

Sultan of my heart.

If you agree, I would like us to have dinner together.

I also want to talk about Cihangir.

Alright.

I brought you something. It's called coffee.

You should taste it, I'm curious if you'll like it.

What is that?

Soon its scent will fill the whole room. Let's sit down.

Guards!

I couldn't say it before His Majesty.

But I don't know if he'll get better any time soon.

You've just said that his wounds are drying up.

That's true but we still have to be careful.

The campaign conditions might be too hard on him.

God have mercy.

Physician, you give hope on one hand and poison on the other!

What are we going to do now?

Come in.

Your Grace.

It smells beautiful indeed.

Sumbul brought it. Apparently it comes from Yemen.

Where did Sumbul find this coffee?

He bought it from a friend on the market.

He also loved the smell of it. Bought a pouch and brought it home.

Whatever this coffee is, it should be examined thoroughly.

How do we know it's not harmful?

I do not think it's harmful.

It even sharpen the senses, I've had it before.

We should consult to Ebusuud to see if it's a sin or not.

Whatever you think is right.

What is happening with Cihangir?

Did you convince him?

I don't want him to be mad at me when I settle for the campaign.

Not yet, but he will agree soon.

Would you want to have some drink, Your Grace?

What are you looking at?

Nothing, Your Grace.

You can leave.

-But Your Grace-- -I said get out! Out!

Father!

Calm down. It's all good.

First, with God's will, we will go to Aksehir.

Prince Bayezid will join us there.

Then we head towards Erzurum over Sivas.

From there, we will go to Van.

There, Alqas Mirza will be waiting for us along with his army.

We'll conquer Van first and march towards Tabriz.

Tahmasp will retreat to Kazmir.

Shahzade Alqas and his Turkmen regiments will attack from Azerbaijan.

Enemy will be surrounded by both sides.

Tahmasp will either surrender or retreat to distant lands.

I wish he had the courage to face me.

Thankfully his brother Alqas is a brave and courageous Shahzade.

Your Majesty, have you reached upon a decision regarding Sultana Fatma?

It's not just a political thing, Rustem.

Sultana Fatma is my sister.

I have to ask her what she thinks about it.

Although, I have the impression that she's not against this marriage.

Sokullu has some ideas about this matter too.

Your Highness, congratulations.

What's going on?

His Majesty gave permission for your wedding with Alqas Mirza.

Matron Afife has just told me.

Thank God!

It's such a relief!

But the wedding will take place after the campaign.

When Alqas Mirza takes the Persian throne.

I've been waiting all this time.

I'll wait a bit more for my happiness, wouldn't bother me!

After all, happiness and love are at the end of it.

I will deal with Hurrem until that time.

Marriage of Alqas Mirza and Sultana Fatma...

...is decided appropriate by His Majesty.

Stating the obvious.

Tell me what's up with Cihangir.

How was his night? Is he in a good mood?

Your Highness...

I talked to the concubine who accompanied him.

Everything began nicely, it was a pleasant night.

His Grace was successful as well.

However...

However, what?

Suddenly, His Grace got upset and chased the girl out of the room.

I questioned the concubine.

To find out what exactly upset the prince.

She did not say anything.

Mihrimah!

What a nice coincidence.

I was on my way to see you

Your Highness, did something happen?

I wanted you to hear the good news first.

Our wedding with Shahzade Alqas Mirza was accepted by His Majesty.

We will get married in an appropriate time.

Congratulations.

May God grant you happiness.

Amen.

Not everyone gets a brave man like Alqas.

You do not even know how lucky I consider myself.

The wedding will take place after the war.

We'll organize a legendary wedding.

I hope you help me in the preparations.

I want us to decide everything together.

-I'll be glad. -Good.

You do not know how happy I am.

May God...

...help the ones who have never felt this kind of happiness.

Life is so bitter for them...

...so empty.

Stay safe.

Find Zal Mahmoud.

I'm setting off tomorrow.

I have no doubt that you will face yet another victory.

God willing.

Keep an eye on Selim in my absence.

Don't you trust Selim?

I cannot forget his status in Manisa.

Fortunately, he took an oath and saved himself.

But we must be careful anyways.

His situation is sensitive.

With a mighty wind and storm...

...he may slip again.

Don't worry, I will be with him.

My lion will redeem himself with such a mission.

I hope so.

This separation will last long.

I miss you already.

I don't know how I'll handle it.

On another hand, Cihangir's situation grieves me.

Is something wrong?

Come in.

You wanted to see me, Your Highness.

Zal Mahmud...

Nobody, including Rustem, will know about our conversation.

I hope I can trust you.

-Of course, Your Highness. -Come closer.

Listen to me good now!

As you know, Shahzade Alqas and Sultana Fatma will be engaged.

Then Alqas will go to war.

Alqas Mirza will not return from that campaign!

-Your Highness? -He will not!

As you command, Your Highness.

Father?

A prince who wants to go to war, shouldn't hide in darkness.

I changed my mind, Your Majesty.

I do not want to go to war.

Even if I do, I won't be of any use.

Everyone has a wound.

Some people have it on their body, some on their souls.

But no one wants to show their weaknesses.

Everyone tries to hide their wound.

However, that wound is always there, it never goes away.

As Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi said:

Man is born crooked.

When he straightens up for a moment, thinks of himself as correct.

Yet a man lives hunched over.

The day he is most upright, is the day he dies.

Cihangir...

...my lion...

You will come with me.

No one can match your wisdom.

Your ideas will be of good use during the campaign.

You still haven't replied to me.

Is there a chance for us to be together?

I can only answer you after the end of the campaign.

I'll talk to His Majesty about us, that we got married.

If he gives permission, if I can convince him...

...then we can be together.

Your Grace, it's time to go.

The soldiers are waiting for you.

Stay here until my return.

Mentor, my princes and sultanas are entrusted to you.

Bayezid...

My prayers will be with you.

His Majesty's direction has not changed.

We will greet them when his army approaches to the city of Sivas.

Good. I hope everything is ready.

Everything is ready, Your Grace. We'll leave when it's time.

I hope things don't get worse between you.

It cannot be worse, Nisa.

He disentitled my regency and banished me here.

You should be careful anyways, son.

I know you disapprove inside, and you're right.

But hide it, devour it within.

Don't speak about it to His Majesty.

Beg for his forgiveness.

Do not worry, mother. That's what I think.

Have a nice day.

Kudret Agha!

Wake up! Wake up!

-Sumbul, is that you? -Who sleeps in the middle of the day?

What can I do? Business is bad. Shopkeepers are in a bad situation.

We wait for the end of the campaign.

Soldiers will bring loot. They'll hand out gold.

Which will make us happy, God willing.

''And if my mother had wheels, she would have been a bike.''

Nevermind that! Why do you insist on working at this age?

-Are you proposing something to me? -I am.

Sell me your stall... It's time for you to retire anyways.

I don't know how will that be.

What's on your mind? What will you do with it?

Remember the coffee you gave me?

I'll cook it and sell it as a drink.

I'll get a couple of chairs here and there.

You were mocking it, calling it goat shit?

You want to make money with that?

I will sell what I want! What's it to you?

Tell me how much you want for your stall?

Don't make me angry!

I can't describe how happy I am to see you at the campaign.

His Majesty said that he needs my ideas.

Not only him, we all need it. All the world..

Stop messing around.

How is Huricihan?

Fine.

Actually, I want to talk to His Majesty about us, Cihangir.

The longer I hide it, the heavier my conscience gets.

I don't want to have secrets from my father.

Choice is yours.

But do not forget what happened to my brother Mustafa.

This is what really upsets me.

Brother Mustafa thinks I exposed him.

This letter was sent from your palace, Bayezid.

Your Grace.

Your Grace, there are some matters I need to talk to you about.

Alright. Cihangir, head back to your tent, I'll be there soon.

Your Grace.

Polish princess Anna Jagiellonka sent a letter.

He asks for permission to visit Istanbul.

Polish princess, is that it?

Daughter of King Sigismund.

She especially wants to talk to Sultana Hurrem.

Why does she want to talk with my mother?

She says Her Highness was born in her lands.

I'm guessing they want to use this situation politically.

Understood.

I have not seen any princesses yet.

It's good to meet one.

It's appropriate, she may come.

As you wish, Your Grace.

Isn't it strange, Sokullu?

Everyone was expecting Mustafa...

...yet I was named as the regent.

What's so strange about it, Your Grace?

In the end, it's you who rules the Saruhan province.

When everyone thinks the opposite way, do you really think this way?

Or did you just say that to please me?

I admire His Majesty's wisdom, Your Grace.

It seems he saw a light in you that the others don't have.

Just as I can see it.

No one knows what'll happen tomorrow, Sokollu.

However, there are some things that are certain like the law.

For example...

...if Bayezid ascends the throne...

...Rustem will continue his duty.

If Brother Mustafa succeeds, he'll appoint one of his men.

And if I ascend the throne...

I will need someone with experience whom I can trust.

I do not know yet who could that be...

Whoever you think is right for the position.

Maybe that'll be you Sokollu.

It's your kindness, Your Grace.

I do not know if you realize this...

...Sultana Hurrem and I think you should ascend the throne.

All our efforts are for the sake of your future.

In that case, all your efforts were useless, Rustem Pasha.

Otherwise, His Majesty would appoint me as the regent, not Selim.

This is a long road, Your Grace.

Ignore these temporary defeats.

With our support, one day you'll take the throne.

But you need to be careful about every step you take.

What do you mean? Speak directly.

I hear you want to talk to His Majesty...

...about your marriage with Sultana Huricihan.

Don't do this. You can't gain anything with it.

How did you find out this?

Were you eavesdropping on us, Rustem?

If you excuse me, Your Grace, that's a secret.

Get a grip!

When we're working day and night for your good...

...you can't just simply refuse it!

You cannot talk to His Majesty about Huricihan.

If this is revealed, no one can stop Prince Selim.

You'll never be able to catch him.

You'll never overcome him.

Will you be okay with this?

Fold your hand in front of you. Right hand on top.

Well done. When a Prince arrives, bow to him, like this.

Yes.

And don't say anything unless I say so. You can't talk as you wish.

Got it?

Well done.

- Your Highness. - Welcome, Atmaca.

Who is this handsome boy?

Long story, Your Highness.

I will tell you everything after meeting with the Prince.

The Prince is not here.

He went to Sivas to seek an audience with His Majesty.

You will have to wait for him.

-What's your name? -Yusuf.

Your countenance is as beautiful as your name.

Is that your son?

Prince, Your Grace, His Majesty is waiting for you.

Your Majesty.

Speak, Mustafa.

Why have you ignored my will?

And why did you lie to my face? I want to know why!

Your Majesty...

...I have deep feelings towards Hayreddin Pasha's daughter Mihrunnisa.

That I cannot even breathe without her.

Of course, this may not mean anything to you...

...but this is the truth.

As a Prince, I should have obeyed the customs, and traditions.

But I could not.

I showed weakness.

Forgive me for this. I beg for your holy forgiveness.

You can't show any weakness!

You do not have the right to do so!

If you show weakness, then you can't rule this state!

Traitors and vultures who want a piece of you...

...will encircle you and get what they want!

They'll tear you apart!

Yet another offense!

Every time you beg for forgiveness!

What is your goal?

Are you testing my patience?

Your Majesty--

By marrying her, you directly ignored my will!

You know the appropriate punishment.

If you are forgiven each time, it is not because you're my son!

But because of my deep affection for you.

Like all my other children.

However my sons regard my affection as weakness and try to use it against me.

This will be the last time Mustafa.

There won't be a second chance next time.

I'll pass a sentence about you without any hesitation!

Return to your province and wait for my instructions. You may leave.

The Polish Princess wants to visit you and be your guest at the palace.

Polish princess ...

Princess Anna Jagiellonka.

So the owners of the land I was born in, come to my feet.

I cannot hold back my grace. She may come.

Your task is vital in Rustem's absence.

As you know, my enemies...

Whenever His Majesty goes on a campaign, they attack me immediately.

Do not worry, I took the necessary precautions.

Good.

You must keep an eye on Selim.

Let me know if he's about to make a mistake.

As you wish, Your Highness.

It seems to me, however, the Prince has gained experience in Saruhan.

I don't think he'll make a grave mistake.

Is that so?

That's what I witnessed, Your Highness.

There is a vast difference between the Prince who left here for Saruhan...

...and the Prince who came here as regent.

Don't fret over His Majesty's words, brother.

He acts this way because he loves and trusts you.

You need to understand him.

He's deeply disappointed.

His poisonous words were too much to handle, Cihangir.

Brother Mustafa, we have to talk.

I didn't tell His Majesty about you and Mihrunnisa.

I didn't do it.

It didn't even cross my mind.

If not, then who, Bayezid? No one knew but you.

Huricihan?

It's so difficult for me to tell you this, brother.

On one hand, there's mother, on the other, Huricihan.

I don't know which one to be mad at...

Which one to banish from my heart...

What's worse is I'm not even sure I'm strong enough to do this.

So glamorous and impressive.

Only a throne mighty as this is worthy of the Sultan of the world.

Isn't it forbidden for anyone else to sit on the throne?

But there's only you and me here.

No one can see us.

If you want to take the throne, do you know...

...who you need to get close to?

His Majesty, of course.

No, Prince. Your mother.

His Majesty must be loved, respected and rejoiced.

But your mother should come first.

I've been here for days.

Everyone's talking about Hurrem and her unique victory.

Her tremendous power...

In my country there's a saying:

"A man will sit on the throne...

...but a woman directs him."

-Welcome, Your Grace. -Thank you, Atmaca.

Who is this boy?

A friend of mine entrusted him to me.

Let him stay with me here. He can help the servants.

-What's your name? -Yusuf.

"Yusuf, Your Grace." You should say.

Yusuf, Your Grace.

He shall stay, then.

If he's entrusted to you, take care of him Atmaca.

Be a father for him.

Every boy needs a father.

As when you feel the love between a father and son...

...it won't slip away. It will carry on until the death.

Like saplings that...

...burst out of the ground when they see ray of light, or a drop of water.

It lingers on.

You will not get your son back...

...but you can replace him with Yusuf.

Did you manage to investigate the man named Cafer?

I did, Your Grace, but to no avail.

He is one of the palace guards, disguised himself as a gate guard.

I guess he took upon this task himself.

Come with me.

Mother, I brought this from Venice.

I hope you will like it.

I like it very much.

It is not worthy of a single strand of your hair.

You're very precious for me.

You're precious for me as well.

That's true.

But frankly...

...no matter how highly you think of me...

...my place in your heart can't be compared to Bayezid.

He is your most precious.

Why are you saying that? In my eyes, you both are equal.

Mother, do not get me wrong. I don't criticize your choice.

I just want you to think this over.

Are you doing what's right by preferring Bayezid over me?

One day when Bayezid ascends the throne...

...do you think he will care for your opinion?

Unlikely.

-Where is this coming from? -Think it through, mother.

Think about the future.

Imagine that you hold the destiny of everyone, including me.

Every boy needs a father.

As when you feel the love between a father and son...

...it won't slip away. It will carry on until the death.

Your majesty, Alqas Mirza is in contact with the Turkmen tribes.

They will seek an audience near the city of Van.

Good.

I hope he'll bring good news.

Otherwise his presence might turn into a burden.

Your majesty, you know better, for sure...

...even if Alqas Mirza keeps his word...

...can we trust him during a battle?

Shouldn't we think for the worst and take precautions accordingly?

What is your advice?

Let me lead the army of Alqas.

There will be a pasha with me.

So we can control that flank as well.

The Prince is right.

A man who has betrayed his own people, can he betray us as well.

Cihangir, I promised him the Persian throne.

In addition, he will be my son-in-law.

There is no reason for him to betray us.

Let's say he did, what will he do?

Form an alliance with his brother and attack us?

-Your Majesty-- -Discussion is over, Bayezid.

Of course you'll have a duty on this campaign.

But I'll decide what duty, where and how..

Come in!

-Your Grace. -What's going on Atmaca?

There is a matter you need to know immediately.

I need to tell you this.

Speak.

This boy's father is not my friend.

This boy is the son of Cafer, who you told me to follow.

After I killed his father, I was obliged to take care of the boy.

So you killed him.

You told me a few hours ago that Cafer is harmless.

I could not tell you in public.

Cafer is a Persian spy.

He told me everything.

Around Van province, one of Alqas Mirza's guards...

...will assassinate His Majesty.

What do you mean, Atmaca?

The plot is well-prepared.

If no one prevents them, they'll succeed.

You have two options now.

One is light...

...and the other is dark.

You will decide which one to follow.