Chapter 669: The Old Man’s Adventure (3)
As the delegation led by Apostolos and safeguarded by Hamza Bey’s guards advanced toward the east, the anticipation of nearing Ankara became palpable. Under normal circumstances, the journey from Nikomedia to Ankara would not stretch this extensively. However, the caravan, burdened with goods and engaging in trade at each township they encountered, inevitably slowed their progress. While Hamza Bey’s patience waned with each passing day, awaiting the completion of the Rumelians’ trade dealings, Apostolos appeared unfazed, immersing himself in the towns and cities along the way, keenly absorbing the surrounding milieu.
Apostolos’ keen observations revealed a stark contrast to Hamza Bey’s assurances about the prosperity of Anatolia’s heartlands.
On the western shores, remnants of civilisation flourished with bustling cities, thriving settlements, and vibrant trade routes that still harboured predominantly Greek communities, a testament to the region’s rich heritage despite centuries of Mongol and Turkic dominance. Yet, as they delved deeper inland, the vestiges of Greek influence waned, giving way to simpler architectural forms — from solid stone constructions to rudimentary wooden dwellings and even makeshift huts of dirt and straw.
The reliance on ancient Roman roads was evident among the local populace, with thoroughfares near Nikomedia, Prusa, and Izmir being relatively well-preserved. Beyond these areas, however, the infrastructure deteriorated significantly, with roads becoming chaotic, fragmented, and barely navigable. Commerce among these extensive, isolated settlements seemed non-existent, highlighting the insularity of the interior’s economic life.
Signs of the region’s tumultuous history were ubiquitous. Violet decorations adorned many homes, symbolizing mourning, while cemeteries expanded with fresh graves. Households frequently comprised disabled veterans or predominantly female members, casualties of the ceaseless conflicts with the Romans. Despite their historical enmity, Apostolos noted, the news of Romans traversing their land sparked curiosity among the Ottoman Turks, who would eagerly gather around in the streets to catch a glimpse of the foreigners, showing that despite having a long-time war, most of them have never seen a real Roman before.
The economic fabric of the Ottoman Empire, as witnessed by the delegation, starkly illustrated the impact of decades-long warfare on the rural heartlands. Turkish tribal children, bereft of proper attire and footwear, played in the streets, embodying the dire straits of impoverishment that enveloped many communities. Women, in the absence of men who were conscripted to fight on various fronts, bore the brunt of sustaining household economies. Rural areas were particularly hard-hit, with a near absence of monetary economy, relying instead on barter systems for basic sustenance. This regression to a pre-civilization state of economic activity is a testament to the ravages of continuous conflict, which claimed up to a million lives over half a century.
The depletion of resources and manpower was evident even within the Ottoman military. Whereas Mehmed Bey’s contingent maintained a semblance of the empire’s former martial glory, being fully armed and armoured, the majority of infantrymen were ill-equipped, many without basic protective gear or even weapons. This stark contrast to the well-armoured phalanxes that paraded during the era of Murad II highlighted the decline in military provisioning and morale.
Despite Mehmed Bey’s efforts to showcase the prosperous aspects of Ottoman life to the Rumelian envoys, the reality of widespread hardship and economic stagnation was impossible to conceal. Frustrations arose, particularly with his brother Ahmed Celebi’s decision to invite the delegation deep into Anatolian territory, rather than meeting in more prosperous coastal cities like Prusa, Izmir, or Izmit.
The group of ambassadors reached a town called Polati, which is a smaller sized city that connects Ankara to the west of Anatolia, also meaning that they are extremely close to the capital city.
Upon arriving in Polatlı, a smaller city strategically positioned along the route to Ankara, the delegation was finally presented with a semblance of prosperity. Situated on expansive grass plains that glowed with vibrant green in the summer, Polatlı stood as a testament to the potential for economic revival. Lacking fortifications, the city thrived as a commercial hub, benefiting from its proximity to the capital and its historical significance. Markets bustled, and the plains were dotted with herds of sheep and fine horses, signalling a niche of economic vitality amidst the broader context of decline. Polatlı served as a rare beacon of prosperity, offering a glimpse into the resilience of some Ottoman communities despite the overarching challenges faced by the empire.
"We shall pause our journey here for a spell," Mehmed Bey announced. "This locale serves as a significant commercial hub on the outskirts of Ankara. I encourage you to explore, Lord Apostolos."
"Certainly," Apostolos replied with a nod of acquiescence. "May I inquire as to the reason for our stop? Is there some concern on the road ahead?"
"Nothing of the sort," Mehmed Bey responded, casting a puzzled glance at him. "This town stands as one of the closest settlements to the capital, marking it as perhaps the safest haven in this vicinity. However, by decree of my brother, all military units are required to halt here and obtain permission from Ankara before proceeding into the capital."
"Ah~ I see." Apostolos said, peering intently at Mehmed Bey. "I understand it now, thanks for the response."
As the Roman merchants dispersed, eagerly showcasing the last of their Western goods, a frenzy once again took hold of the marketplace. The scarcity of such commodities here, compounded by the distance from the Aegean and the Ottoman embargo, caused prices to surge.
Apostolos then instructed his merchants to attempt purchasing horses from the town. Aware of the strategic value of warhorses, Mehmed Bey intervened posthaste, halting all equine trade endeavours and issuing Apostolos a sharp admonition against any underhanded tactics. Apostolos chuckled in response, publicly chastising his merchants for their overzealous trading efforts in Mehmed Bey’s presence, only to covertly commend them once Mehmed Bey had departed.
It did not take long before Mehmed Bey came back to Apostolos once more, telling him that the group can now go on the move again. Though from the look on the man’s face, it seems like he has just gotten into an argument or something with his brother. But Apostolos would not ask that much, as he obediently told his team and merchants to continue moving and follow the lead of the Ottomans.
Ahmed Celebi was already awaiting their arrival at the gates of Ankara, accompanied by other esteemed Ottoman court officials. The welcoming party stood just outside the city, arms laden with banquets of flowers, milk, and honey, their opulence visible from hundreds of meters away. This grand gesture unmistakably highlighted the moment’s significance to all present.
As soon as Apostolos became aware of this ceremonial welcome, he disembarked from his carriage, taking the lead by advancing a few hundred meters ahead of his entourage. It was there he came face-to-face with Ahmed Celebi, the true architect of Ottoman diplomacy and the economy.
Despite this being their first encounter, Apostolos and Ahmed Celebi greeted each other as if they were long-lost friends reuniting after years apart, embracing and sharing laughter in a display of camaraderie. Following their warm exchange, they proceeded into the heart of the Ottoman capital hand in hand. Apostolos attentively listened as Ahmed Celebi provided insights into the city’s landmarks and vistas. The central street was alive with onlookers, many of whom wore expressions of hostility, though curiosity prevailed in the eyes of the majority, all eager to glimpse the Rumelian ambassadors.
The delegation was then escorted to the courtroom, where a lavish feast awaited the peace ambassadors. Seated side by side, it was at this banquet that Apostolos had the opportunity to closely observe the man beside him. Despite being only a fraction of his own age, Ahmed Celebi’s appearance bore the marks of his responsibilities: the hair at his temples was completely silver, and dark circles underscored his eyes. When presented with the letter from the emperor, Ahmed Celebi squinted and leaned in close to decipher the script, indicating the toll his duties had exacted on him.
The burden of a beleaguered sultanate weighed heavily upon the young Ahmed Celebi; his youthful vigour overshadowed by the immense responsibility. The strain was evident, visibly taxing his spirit and physical well-being. Apostolos, observing silently, committed these insights to memory, recognising the profound challenges faced by the young prince.
At the banquet, Ahmed Celebi extended a warm welcome to Apostolos, curiosity laced in his tone. "Your highness, it has reached my ears that you’ve escorted a contingent of merchants alongside you, engaging in trade along your journey?"
Raising his cup in a toast, Apostolos responded affirmatively, "Indeed, at the behest of Lord Miralai, these merchants accompany us not just as a gesture of goodwill but also as pioneers in forging lasting bonds between our peoples, anticipating a future where peace reigns supreme between our nations."
Ahmed Celebi, however, appeared sceptical, mentioning, "I’ve been informed that your delegation has dealt in wares of strategic importance, such as metals."
Unperturbed, Apostolos maintained his characteristic smile, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Yes, I permitted such transactions. Once peace prevails, and trade resumes, we are open to offering any commodity available in our markets to assist in the reconstruction of your sultanate."
