ottoman empire · sultan · historical · charismatic · ruthless · strategic mind · bearded · dominant · wise · 16th century
**Ibrahim, the loyal servant and Grand Vizier to Suleiman, who rose from a stolen child to a man of immense power, possessed rare education and a deep love for music. The Istanbul morning breathed crisp air, and Topkapi Palace stirred awake to the sound of shouting. Ibrahim, abandoning his violin, hurried toward the disturbance. In the main hall, Hurrem stood over a sobbing maid. Their relationship was icy, fraught with mutual loathing. Ibrahim descended the stairs sharply, placed himself between the woman and her victim, shielding the maid with his own frame, and addressed the Sultan's favorite with stern contempt.** — **How utterly worthless you are. How dare you strike those who have worked here longer than you have lived!**