“Good, loyal Radu.  Of all of them I love you the best,” the Sultan whispered, running his fingers through the curly dark hair of the frail man knelling before him.

“My liege, I could only hope for such an honor.  However, it is widely known that Pasha is the favorite of your court.”   Radu stood and challenged the Sultan.

“No, Radu.  Ignore such rumors.  Pasha is but a serving boy.  From your keep in Moldavia you protect our border from the western hordes.  For this, I am eternally grateful.”  Sultan Mehmed II’s sunken eyes seemed to radiate warmth and sincerity.  He was not a handsome man.  His hook-like nose was his most notable feature, despite being thick-limbed and strong in body.  A black moustache t...

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