The City of Gazban is a blessed and populous city, one of the most prestigious among the towns around.
They had a great kingdom unmatched in grandeur and beauty. The king of the city was a just ruler; no amount of wealth could make him unjust. If anyone was wronged and the matter reached the king, he would always take action.

King Umar loved his people dearly, and they loved him in return. Surprisingly, despite being 76 years old, he looked no older than 50—he showed no visible signs of aging. He was wealthy and among the most powerful kings. Truly, this was a kingdom where no matter what you brought, you'd find they already had more.

King Faruk, his wife was an elderly woman called Dada, and to everyone's surprise, he only had two sons, Ahmad and his younger brother Abbas. They were raised together and deeply loved each other.

However, in the city’s royal tradition, any king who ruled for more than 40 years would have his grandson inherit the throne—not his son—unless he had no grandson; then, the son would inherit it.

As the king’s sons grew up, wives were chosen for them. Ahmad married Sultana Bilkisu, the daughter of the king of Agadez, while Abbas was married to Sultana Sadiya, the daughter of his deceased cousin.

In the large royal palace, each couple had their own quarters.

Ahmad and Bilkisu lived happily together. Bilkisu was known for her patience, humility, generosity, and love for people.
Sadiya, on the other hand, was the opposite—she disliked the poor and was arrogant. Her only desire was to give birth to the first male child.

Unfortunately for her, Sultana Bilkisu became pregnant first. Sadiya became very anxious because she hadn’t even experienced a missed period.
After nine months, Bilkisu gave birth to a baby girl. Everyone in the family rejoiced. Even Sadiya was happy because it wasn’t a boy.

During the naming ceremony, a grand celebration was held. The kingdoms of Gazban and Agadez poured in wealth. The baby girl was named Asma’u, but she was commonly called Husna.

Three years later, Bilkisu gave birth again—this time to a handsome baby boy who resembled her. The joy in the royal household was immense. Even the people of the city celebrated. King Faruk offered many gifts in gratitude.

But Sadiya couldn’t hide her jealousy. She went to her husband, Sultan Abbas, and found him happily calling people to share the news. She sat beside him angrily. When he finished the call, he smiled and asked her if she needed anything.

She turned her face away and replied, “Why are you happy just because your brother’s wife had a son? Don’t tell me he’s the one to inherit the throne when the king passes.”
Sultan Abbas, surprised, asked, “Sultana, are you jealous of my brother?”

She frowned and replied, “Jealous of what? You’re rejoicing, and yet we haven’t had a child—not even a missed period. And you’re okay with your nephew becoming king?”

Sultan Abbas looked at her for a while and then said, “Sultana, know this: I truly love my brother and I don’t care if his son inherits the throne. His son is like my own. As for not having children, remember it is Allah who gives and withholds. I haven’t lost hope—I believe I’ll have children one day. So don’t ever say such things again.”

Angrily, Sadiya stood up and said, “I knew you’d never understand. But one day, you will.” She stormed out of the room.
Sultan Abbas watched her leave and shook his head in disappointment, saying, “May Allah guide you, Sadiya.”

During the naming of Bilkisu’s son, he was named Umar after the king, but he was often called Suhail.

Suhail was pampered by both his parents and grandparents. Even Sultan Abbas treated him with affection.
Sadiya, however, hated the child. She only pretended to love him when around Dada. Secretly, she wished he would die.

By age three, Suhail was always with the king, who loved having him around.

Two years later, Sadiya finally became pregnant. Everyone, including Sultan Ahmad and Bilkisu, celebrated with her. She prayed earnestly for a baby boy, and Bilkisu was also pregnant at the time.

Nine months later, Sadiya gave birth to a girl, which made her very sad, but she eventually accepted it. The king and others were still happy.
The baby girl was named Sumayya, and her naming ceremony was grand.

Sadiya vowed that, no matter what, her daughter would marry the crown prince.

Three months later, Bilkisu also gave birth to a baby girl named Rahama, after her mother.

From that point on, none of them became pregnant again. Sumayya and Rahama grew up together and were inseparable.

Prince Suhail, raised by the king, grew to be kind and respectful, though quiet and reserved. He avoided noise and only spoke when necessary.
Despite his royal background, he had no desire to become king.

He grew up with his best friend Shahid, the son of the royal adviser. They both attended Arabic and western schools in the city.

After secondary school, Suhail expressed his desire to study abroad. Initially, King Faruk opposed it, saying a future king shouldn’t leave the country. But eventually, he agreed.

Suhail went to India to study medicine, specializing in surgery.

Two years later, Princess Husna married the son of the city’s chairman. The wedding was the biggest celebration in the city’s history. Suhail wanted to attend, but his parents insisted he stay focused on his studies.

Princess Sumayya and Princess Rahama remained close, though they had opposite personalities.
Sumayya was arrogant and looked down on the poor, befriending only those of royal or wealthy lineage.
Rahama, however, was kind, generous, and friendly with everyone. The difference often caused arguments between them at school.

Four years later, Prince Suhail completed his studies and returned home, more handsome and composed than ever. His quiet nature remained, and the entire city celebrated his return.
He missed Shahid, his childhood friend, greatly.

The palace buzzed with excitement. Workers prepared feasts. Even the poor were invited.

As soon as Sumayya saw Suhail, she decided he was the one she would marry. She rushed to her mother with the idea. Her mother, who shared the same wish, encouraged her to tell Dada.

Sumayya followed her mother’s advice and went to see Dada, who was seated with her attendants. She greeted her warmly and sat beside her.

Dada, amused, said, “You’re glowing. What brings you here?”

Sumayya, shyly, said it was about Suhail. She confessed her deep love for him but feared rejection.
Dada was delighted, admitting that she had always hoped for this match. She promised to speak to the king and Suhail.

Sumayya was overjoyed and thanked Dada. As she left, everyone she passed bowed in greeting—none wanting to risk her wrath, knowing her and her mother’s reputation. Yet, today, her face was surprisingly bright and cheerful.

When Dada told the king, he was also thrilled and agreed to discuss the matter the next day.

Later, Prince Suhail was lying on his luxurious bed, while Shahid sat beside him talking endlessly. Suhail only responded with brief murmurs, his eyes fixed on his phone.

Frustrated, Shahid snatched the phone from him. Suhail simply closed his eyes, unfazed.
Shahid wasn’t surprised; he had known him since childhood.

A knock came. Shahid answered. A tall guard entered and respectfully announced, “His Majesty requests the presence of the Crown Prince in his chamber.”

Without opening his eyes, Suhail raised his hand in acknowledgment. The guard bowed and left.

Shahid chuckled and said, “Looks like royalty has been summoned…”