The imposing gate, the ‘Lion Gate,’ so-called because of the two mammoth carved lions that stood guard above its beam, failed to stop my accelerating feet. They had watched over the approaches to the city for hundreds of years. As I passed through its wide girth, (built for giants), I noted the holes left by long-gone hinges and locks in its stone posts.

Which way? I thought.

No need to think – I knew the way – straight on, up more, now crumbling steps, the Lion’s Gate left behind, with its two lions entwined in frustration. Clamouring voices attracted me. Compulsion (Fate) dragged me toward the sounds, as yet alien and indecipherable. Startled faces whipped in and out of view, as I pushed along the narrow passageways that only I remembered the route of, among the shattered stones and vanquished walls.

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