The Merry Widow - Chapter 1 – Prologue
March 20th 1527
Sevgili oğlu,
I have lived long.
I have watched you grow from boy to man. I have watched you take a beautiful foreign wife as your father did when he married me. I have watched you become one of the greatest men I have ever known. Remember my son that the people are in need of guidance. My days are becoming numbered and though I know that will sadden you, know my life has been lived full and happy. My children, all of them who lived past their tenth year, yourself included, have been my joy and now as I look fondly at grandchildren and even great-grandchildren, it is a wonder that I have live so long.
I have seen and lived through many trials. I have lived as best I can. Remember what I have taught you in counsel. I do not wish you to be free, I wish you to be wise, and though you have been one of the best men I have ever known, I wish you to remember those who have shaped your life.
Soon, too soon, I will leave this world. May God's blessings be upon you and our family. Counsel your own sons and daughters to be wise as well. It is through their lives we truly make an impact on the world. Tell them often of the love you have for them as I have you and your siblings. Remember this love when times are tough and I watch over you from above.
I say this to you, Suleiman, live well, my son, live well and fulfill your destiny.
Büyük sevgi ve şefkat,
Let history remember me for who I am,
Ayşe Hafsa Valide Sultan
Noor Isabelle Esperanza Echeberria Borgia De' Medici Auditore Misterioso Osman the Güzel