Chapter 19
Mahntra' Bhu stood at the bottom of the palace rampart, watching closely the balcony from which Trantra' Joh had announced he would speak to the people. The disguise he wore was a precaution. Just the same, the woman's clothing made his mouth quirk in humor. They might figure he would appear again in disguise, but it less likely they would look for him dressed as a woman.
Would Tranthra' Joh finally say something to the populace about the Princess? And if so, would Mahntra be able to take advantage of the gathering of people to press for more? He'd situated himself in the middle of the crowd, doing his best to act and appear anonymous. How did a woman act anonymous anyway?
He looked around. No one seemed to be paying him much attention. Everyone was talking amongst themselves and watching for Tranthra' Joh to make his appearance. The guards at posts around the palace were stationed as normal.
Then a voiced command erupted above the din of the watchers, and all the guards snapped to attention at their posts. All eyes turned to the balcony, and Tranthra' Joh, flanked by the chamberlain, strode out and looked down at the assemblage.
Mahntra noted the possessive gleam in Tranthra' Joh's eyes even at a distance. It was an almost fatherly pride that made Mahntra’ Bhu's stomach turn. The others didn't seem to notice. They waited to hear what was so special that it needed a proclamation from the palace.
Tranthra' Joh raised his hands as if trying to calm the crowd even though there was no need. Mahntra smiled at the arrogance.
"Citizens of Putra' Fi Sorro, I have called you here to make an announcement, and offer some explanation, as best I can."
Here it comes, Mahntra thought. Now I get to see how much of an affect we've had.
"You all know the Princess has not been seen by her people for a while. There is good reason for that. And she wishes me to offer her assurances that everything is well."
Right to the heart of it, Mahntra thought. I wonder if the people will believe what comes next?
"She has gone off to a far city, in the service of each of you, her loyal subjects, in order to affect treaties which will bring peace to our city for many years to come. Assisting her in these efforts are the Council of Nobles, and sufficient of her personal guard to insure her safety."
Mahntra stopped watching Tranthra' Joh to watch the listeners. They appeared to be paying close attention to Tranthra' Joh, but their faces bespoke their concern. There were even a few murmurs about Tranthra' Joh taking every advantage while the Princess was away; remarks that gave Mahntra small encouragement. The people were uncertain as to whether they should trust his words. With good reason, Mahntra mused.
"The Princess is safe, and she has sent word of the partial success of her labors. She asks for your continued patience for just a while longer."
The murmurs around Mahntra started to grow. They were, indeed, suspicious. "She shouldn't be gone now," someone spoke a little louder. "Not with a succession. She should be here!" It was loud enough so all around could hear, but Mahntra couldn't place who'd said it.
"Her work is of upmost importance," Tranthra continued. "In fact, the histories will always refer to this day as being one of the greatest in our city's past, and pivotal to its future.
"For the work your Princess has done," Tranthra raised his arms again for dramatic affect, "and is doing even now, is without precedent for as long as the histories have been kept!"
The people around Mahntra looked at one another. What is he talking about?
"The Princess, unfortunately, has not been able to return as yet, but to reassure you, she has sent something back that will astound you!"
From other balconies ringing the palace, trumpeters stepped forward blaring out a crescendoing fanfare. When they died down all eyes turned back to Tranthra' Joh.
"Behold. Prophecy fulfilled!"
The wide portals opened on the rampart of the palace grounds wall and out marched a rank of the strangest creatures Mahntra had ever seen. They were all sleek with a scaly skin of greenish hue. The strange part was the color seemed to keep subtly changing as they marched out and stood at attention in front of the awe filled assemblage. Their clothing was sparse, just green leather breeches, an open breasted, sleeveless tunic of the same material and harness straps going up over their shoulders holding an odd assortment of small weapons. In one hand each warrior held a short hafted spear with an elongated point, and the other hand held a long blade knife as if they were ready to lunge into battle any instant.
"The Pontu' Gi!"
A collective gasp went up from the crowd. Mahntra gasped himself. The legends! But how?
"The Princess found the legendary Protectors, and sent them here to watch over her city while she's gone."
More rumbles of noise continued from those around Mahntra. Something is wrong. This is not how it's supposed to be!
Mahntra was well aware of the legends and until now, hadn't thought of them -- especially the ones concerning the Pontu' Gi. He must think on this, must weigh it all together.
There was still no doubt in his mind that the Princess had nothing to do with this. But how had Tranthra' Joh found the Protectors?
"My people. Now you see that our Princess is alive and well. She is still looking out for your best interests, and asks that you cooperate with those she has designated to govern until she returns. What she is working on is critical not only to our city, but to our whole world. That is why the Pontu' Gi have been sent.
"There are some who have been sowing discontent among the people. They do so not out of malice, but out of ignorance. Please, those of you who have been part of this. Desist. The safety of the Princess and the Council of Nobles is at stake. Indeed the safety of everything we hold dear. You can see now that your fears are groundless. The Princess is doing her duty. Unusual times require unusual measures. The Princess knows her people are up to the challenge!"
Oh that was slick. Mahntra thought. He didn't believe a word of it.