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.