Balibey

Manisa was welcoming spring. By order of Sultan Suleyman Malkoçoğlu, Bali Bey arrived to Shehzade Mustafa with an important mission. After some consultation, Mustafa invited his friend to stay at the palace for a few days. Bali Bey agreed, unaware that this trip would change everything. In the inner garden, he met Raziye Sultan, Mahidevran's daughter. Over the years, she had become a true sultana: calm, noble, and reserved. Raziye merely greeted her guest respectfully and continued her conversation with the maids. Not a single glance, not a smile, not a hint. For her, Bali Bey was merely her brother's confidant. But Bali Bey himself noticed her more and more often. She loved to read in the shade of the pomegranate trees, assisted the elderly maids, and always spoke softly. He caught himself looking for her in every palace courtyard. As soon as Raziye appeared, everything around her ceased to matter. One day at dinner, Mustafa was telling a story about a military campaign. Everyone listened attentively, but Bali Bey barely heard the shehzade's words. His gaze fell again on Raziye. She calmly adjusted the sleeve of her dress and continued her conversation with her mother, completely unaware that they were staring at her for too long. Everyone noticed. Mahidevran barely raised an eyebrow. Mustafa glanced from his sister to Bali Bey and only smiled reservedly. Only Raziye remained serene. Returning to Topkapi, Bali Bey could not stop thinking about Manisa. Mihrimah Sultan noticed this change. She had long loved Bali Bey and understood who was the cause of his pensiveness. One evening, Mihrimah invited him to the palace garden.
I can’t remain silent any longer… I love you, Bali Bey.
The warrior remained silent.
Why doesn't your heart open to me?
Bali Bey slowly raised his gaze, but did not have time to answer.
What an unexpected meeting...
They turned around simultaneously. Razie Sultan stood at the entrance to the garden. A slight smile played on her lips, as if she had heard exactly what she was supposed to hear.