Chapter 16:The Seeds of Dominion

Thank you once again for sending the power stone, Haydar_Hassoun. Knowing that I have loyal readers like you brings me great joy.

Nasuh Pasha had been executed; justice had been served. Osman, foreseeing that Shah Abbas would break the Nasuh Pasha Treaty, had already begun his preparations. He was aware that he would be appointed as commander to the Iranian front and that his father intended to appoint his brother-in-law, Vizier Kara Mehmet Pasha, as grand vizier. So Osman started working to gain Mehmet Pasha's loyalty. He was especially intrigued by the fact that Mehmet Pasha was of Turkish origin and came from a humble background. Osman was curious about how a man whose father had been an ox-farrier had managed to enter the Enderun School and rise through the ranks. Aware of the historical mistake in sidelining such a valuable vizier, Osman pondered the lessons from history. He knew that Sultan Osman II's narrow vision had led to Kara Mehmet Pasha's eventual political and physical downfall, as instead of utilizing him as a grand vizier, he had sent him to war.

The meeting between Osman and Kara Mehmet Pasha took place in a quieter corner of the palace, in a modest yet elegant study. The room was adorned with heavy rugs and finely embroidered cushions, and the faint scent of wood smoke lingered from a brass brazier in the corner. Osman, dressed in a dark blue kaftan with gold embroidery, awaited the vizier in contemplation.

Kara Mehmet Pasha entered with a humble demeanor that immediately stood out. Dressed simply in a white robe and modest sash, he bowed before Osman, who returned the gesture with a respectful nod and a gentle smile.

"Pasha," Osman began, his voice steady with a maturity beyond his years. "I've heard of the reforms you made in Egypt. Abolishing the tribute taxes from the keshshafs, restoring discipline among the provincial soldiers, ending the 'kulfe' and 'taibe' levies… All signs of a governor who cares for his people."

Mehmet Pasha listened intently and nodded slightly. "My prince," he replied, "it was necessary to lighten the burdens on the people. Those taxes oppressed them and sowed discontent. A governor is there to protect his people from tyranny, not to impose it. Both he and his administration must be firm and fair so that the people can live in peace."

Osman took a deep breath, gazing momentarily into the distance. "When the time comes for me to lead, I hope to follow a similar path. When a state is built on justice, it earns the loyalty and trust of its people," he said, then fixed his eyes on Mehmet Pasha, adding, "But knowing there's a man like you, one who understands the people, brings me strength."

Mehmet Pasha's eyes glinted with appreciation. "My prince," he said with reverence, bowing slightly, "when a member of the dynasty appreciates the achievements of a vizier from among the people, there is hope that justice will indeed reign. When you eventually come to rule, I am confident you will bring security, order, and peace to this land."

Osman placed a reassuring hand on the vizier's shoulder. "We will build it together, Pasha. The state will always need loyal, wise men like you," he said.

Mehmet Pasha, grateful, nodded and continued humbly. "My prince, I was born among the people, and perhaps that is why I understand their struggles and expectations better. However…" He hesitated, with a slight look of shame crossing his face. "Perhaps you haven't heard of the troubles during my time as Kaptan-ı Derya."

Osman interrupted with a warm smile. "Oh, I've heard. But the mistake wasn't yours. Assigning a man skilled in governance and economics to be the Kaptan-ı Derya was the real error."

Mehmet Pasha, touched by Osman's confidence in him, replied with a modest smile. Osman's expression then grew more serious as he continued, "I have recommended you to my father for the position of grand vizier. Please don't disappoint me, Kara Mehmet Pasha."

Pasha bowed, acknowledging the prince's trust. "I will never betray your confidence, my prince."

Osman, reassured by his words, patted him on the shoulder once more. "My father and this nation need the firm steps of men like you, Pasha."

This dialogue underscored Osman's determination, intelligence, and budding leadership qualities, while reinforcing Mehmet Pasha's loyalty and devotion. It revealed how Osman hoped to build a future state on the strong foundations of trust and alliance.

Thank you Haydar_Hassoun for power stone .

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The "Kaptan-ı Derya" was the title given to the chief admiral of the Ottoman navy. This position was one of the highest military ranks, responsible for overseeing naval operations, strategy, and maintaining the fleet's readiness. The Kaptan-ı Derya held significant influence in the empire's maritime affairs and was often a key figure in military campaigns.