CHAPTER FOURTEEN
205 Words
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Dariusz trod with hesitation through the streets of Istanbul.
He had been following the immense Valens Aqueduct for over twelve miles from its source at the reservoir in the Belgrade Forest. Now he was in the shadow of the monolithic structure as it soared high above him on magnificent stone arches.
Passing through the Belgrade Gate of the Theodosian Walls—which protected the landside of Istanbul—he marveled at the red tile and limestone block engineering that had resisted a thousand years of would-be northern conquerors. Yet he was able to easily pass by the guarding Janissary Troops who only ceremoniously stood at the opening.
He had been travelling for many months alongside the course of the Danube and around the shores of the Black Sea. He had followed the stories of the Carpathian beauties and he knew that his love must be here in this vast city.
His body had endured significant hardship and he appeared much older than his seventeen years. His thick brown hair was long and matted; his chin covered in a scraggy and unkempt growth. His ripped clothing was saturated with dried mud and sweat.
The people in the twisted laneways of Istanbul moved to the side so as not to touch him.
- Writer
