The Imperial Princes quickly adapted to life in Palace School. The palace itself acted more like a vibrant city of equals in scholarship, more than a castle with hierarchy.
Populated with men and women from across the empire and far away lands, Palace School was a refuge where peasants and children of titled families would send children to become masters of craft and skill for their nation. There were entire families within the school, who’d raise children born into its system of education and duty. It was where ambitious people came to gain favor as well, leaving its walls with titles and lands or to enter the Harem in service of Concubines, as Eunuchs, Cariye, Usta, and Guard.
The boys themselves enjoyed their time at school in different ways. While Ahmed became quite a popular young man, unafraid to make his move, even after rejection, Selim and Bayezid, became the best of friends. When their father spoiled Selim with gifts, including a Stallion which was named for Bucephalus, the other boys were glad to not be in The Sultan’s eye.
Recounting a tale of a far away land in the south, Bayezid spoke of the adventures he would accompany Selim on to his friends. Well off boys, Amir Hüseyin, Suleiman Daula, and the soon-to-be Damat, Khalil Osman. There was no thought in the Third Prince’s mind of a life without his brother. At least, until Khalil asked the instructor if a Sultan could leave his territory.
The inquiry was met with a hash, “No.” And, while Bayezid had some doubt over its truth, he couldn’t help but to think of his own future. Selim’s life would be dictated by their father, but Bayezid would be allowed to forge his own path.
In the Chamber of Nada Hatun, The Sultan awaited the birth of his twenty-first child. Though their evening was interrupted with news from his envoy, Sinan Ferhad, who’d arrived from beyond the Eastern borders of his Sultanate.
Realizing his promise to Sinan’s father, Abdul began to grow tired of forming his own commitments.
