Standing tall amidst the luxurious interior of the grand harem, Hürrem surveyed the room that was now her territory. A room once intended for comfort, peace, and rest had become the stage upon which dramas unfolded daily. Yet she held dominance over them, maintaining her position as Suleiman’s favourite with nothing less than the ruthless pursuit of power.

Her slender fingers, adorned with sparkling rings reflecting the light from hundreds of lanterns, stroked the velvet upholstery of her favourite divan. In the dimly lit environment, the fabric appeared black, almost dark blue - another shade similar to those within Hürrem's ocean-like irises. The atmosphere was saturated with the aroma of exotic spices and floral bouquets which contrasted sharply with the pungent odour coming from underneath each carpet corner.