Final answer:
At the end of his reign, Mircea the Old was engaged in hostile relations with the Ottomans, characterized by constant warfare. The Janissary Corps of the Ottoman Empire were elite yet enslaved individuals who were highly loyal due to their dependence on the sultan for their status.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mircea the Old's relationship with the Ottomans at the end of his reign was largely hostile, marked by constant warfare and opposition. He is known for the defensive stance he took against the expanding influence of the Ottomans in the region. His rule in Wallachia was punctuated by numerous battles, including the notable victory at the Battle of Rovine in 1395. The historical context of Ottoman expansion and the frequent conflict with neighboring states highlights the adversarial nature of Mircea the Old's interactions with the Ottomans during his later years as a ruler.
The Janissary Corps, an elite military group within the Ottoman Empire, was crucial to the empire's military successes but lived a life of paradox, being both respected and enslaved. The experiences of individuals within this group may have varied, but they were known to be loyal due to their upbringing and reliance on their positions for status and livelihood.