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Mehmed II introduced a devastating law out of fear for his power.
In order to prevent familial conflicts for the throne, Sultan Mehmed II legalized the killing of Turkish rulers’ siblings in the 15th century. The period during which this cruel decree was in effect marked the peak of the Ottoman Empire’s power.
“By Allah, they’re coming!” — 18-year-old former Sultan Osman heard footsteps in the corridor and sprang up from his bed. Not long ago, he ruled a vast empire single-handedly. Now, imprisoned in a fortress beneath Istanbul, he awaited the worst. He began to listen — the sound of footsteps approached, but then suddenly receded. Osman wiped the sweat from his forehead. Scenes from the past few months flashed before his eyes: the march on the Commonwealth at the head of a great army, futile attacks on the camp of the accursed Chodkiewicz near Chocim, a humiliating retreat to Istanbul, the Janissaries’ rebellion, imprisonment. Footsteps again, this time of several people. They’re getting closer!
The prisoner’s vision darkened, but with one last effort of will, he decided to show bravery. The door creaked and opened, revealing the figures of several men. One of them began to circle around the 18-year-old, holding a bowstring in his hand. Suddenly, he lunged forward and tried to put it around Osman’s neck. But the young man was faster. He dodged and punched the attacker…
