by D.P. Allen
The predators appeared to stay away from the city, although Hue said that occasionally one would find a way through the wall and into the fields and orchards. The result was damage to the crops and sometimes injury or death to farmers or watchers before the creatures could be chased back into the swamp. He said that protecting the crops was part of the job of the watchers and that there were about 25 who he commanded. They could usually chase away any wild things with fire and very rarely did they need to trap and destroy creatures.
The most dangerous were the “gats”. Fearsome creatures four times as long as a person was tall with very short but powerful legs that could propel them for short distances faster than a man could run. They were heavily scaled with long heads filled with wicked teeth. Virtually impossible to kill and even fire didn’t always persuade them to leave.
Mike knew the description and it didn’t surprise him that a natural eating machine left over from the age of dinosaurs would have survived another 10,000 years. He wondered if there were any salt-water crocodiles to go along with the sometimes as long as 12’ or so fresh water alligators, or “gats” as they were now known.
Mike took pictures of the area with his little digital camera he had tucked in a pocket and made some notes. The pictures amazed his hosts as he showed them each one in the small digital screen. They were more than happy to pose for their own pictures and soon they were having a fun time clowning and hamming it up for the camera. Mike finally called a halt to the moment of fun and suggested some things that might be done to protect the city from attack by Spaniards, Royals or other enemies.
Chapter 15
Only a prospective aggressor would call defenses acts of aggression.
The way I see it, there are four areas that need to be defended. To the north we have the road and to the east, the harbor mouth. The west has the river and swampy delta area and the south ocean and more marshes.
The south and west seem to be naturally protected with cliffs too steep to be climbed and swamps too grown over to allow passage of boats, but too soft and dangerous to be crossed by people. The river was safe due to the rapids and waterfalls. No boats from that way would arrive as more than kindling unless the handlers were as extremely skilled as some of the people who “rode the rapids” as a sport in his own time. The east was what Mike assumed would be the primary entry route of the Spaniards, as they used sea travel as their main transportation mode.
A few cannon would be nice, but not available, so Mike decided to recommend using weapons that the Tif’n residents knew. Hue jumped in as soon as the suggestion was made saying he could find and train watchers to man them. Mike had mentioned the ballista or giant crossbow that had been fired at his boat. Several of them on each ridge overlooking the harbor mouth would cause problems for a small boat, but wouldn’t be very effective against a solidly built galleon.
Mike suggested putting containers on the tips filled with a flammable substance. Sort of a firebomb that could reach out and touch someone. Hue said that the tree pitch that they used for making torches to chase wild animals was abundant and the sticky substance burned long and very hot. It could be stored for long periods of time without losing its potency in clay vessels. He said that the potter’s guild could design and build an appropriate tip for the bolts used in the ballistas.
Aim at a target, light the pitch, fire and a wooden boat becomes an inferno. Mike could envision a few of the bolts landing in the Galleon’s rigging. Instant Spaniard-kabob. Mike suggested that all of the boats in the harbor also have platforms and firebomb ballistas added as a mobile defense force and in case any boats survived the harbor entrance.
Another thing that could be done would be to run a cable across the harbor entrance. This could be lowered to allow boats in and out, but pulled taut to slow or stop any unwanted guests and make them easy targets for the ballistas. The ridge line was high enough that the Spanish cannon could not have a straight shot at the ballistas, which could fire from positions invisible from below.
The other weak area was the road. It was wide enough for a large force to travel quickly and opened into the city without so much as a single gate or fence to slow attackers. “I would suggest,” Mike said. “that a baffle be set up to slow road travel. Staggered dirt walls, with one having the opening on the left and the next on the right and so on would cause an enemy to have to slow and bunch up.
It would also make them turn so that they faced directly at the ridge. Firebomb and standard ballistas and even crossbows would ruin their parade. If feasible, a wall with a gate could be built about half way through the baffles to delay an advance further and another at the last baffle as a line of defense for the cropland. A last wall and gate where the road entered the city would be a last line of defense.
The city would also have to have lookouts in all four directions and a mobile defense force capable of responding to an attack from multiple directions. They would man the defenses as needed, but not be a standing army that drained resources when not actually defending the city. They must have the free time to train for the task or they would be just a mob waiting to be destroyed by a determined enemy. How does that sound to all of you? Is the city capable of and willing to commit to their own defense?
Hue was all for it, but Erman said he could suggest it to the Elders and see what the guilds would be willing and able to do. He couldn’t promise anything, but he’d support the plan. He looked at Mike like he was trying to see a loophole that Mike could use to gain control of the city.
Mike had already decided that the city’s defense should be a city function that would keep the people safe and secure without any need for his leadership. It would go a long way to build their own self-confidence, quench mistrust of Mike’s actions and also protect Mike’s skin when the time came, as he knew it would, that the Spaniards and or Royals came looking for what they thought of as “their” city.
Chapter 16
Would the real leader please stand up.
At Erman’s suggestion, Mike waited until after the many people in the hall had finished their meal before arriving outside. He was immediately ushered inside by Hue, who said, Erman asked me to explain your plan and the guilds have agreed to give what assistance they can.
Some questioned your motives, but the decision became unanimous after Erman told them that he agreed that something must be done and unless someone there had a better suggestion, or could see where you would benefit from a city that could defend itself against you as easily as a known enemy after following your suggestions, then they all supported your ideas.
Mike entered the hall, where he was led to a Mike size chair. Rather than look down on his perspective allies, Mike sat on the floor at the edge of a slightly raised platform facing the throng. This put him at almost eye level with his hosts and he could see some smiles as some either appreciated the gesture of his treating all as equals, or recognized his use of “Psychology 101” to lessen tensions and build trust. All of the 50 plus people assembled were from middle age to elderly and seated at long tables.
Mike began by asking if everyone understood his proposal and if there were any parts that he could clarify. He then asked if anyone had any suggestions or changes that they felt would work better or be more efficient.
One of the Elders stood and asked where they were going to get the materials to build with and the food to feed the workers? He said that Moff had taken most of the harvests and that there was barely enough to keep the population alive. He said there was not enough to keep them healthy for the kind of work that was needed.
Mike asked where the food was and was told that it hadn’t been shipped north yet. It was in Moff’s warehouses by the docks. Mike asked why no one had gone to recover the food and was told that no one dared defy Moff because Moff had made it known that he was under the protection of Mike.
Mike turned to Marcel and said, “Marcel, could you lead some Protectors up to the center and ask Moff, ah no, make that ask all of the “s
ervants” to please present themselves immediately here. There are some questions that need answers and some points that need to be clarified.
And if they are too busy or refuse, because the hour is so late? asked Marcel.
Oh you have such wonderful powers of persuasion. I’m sure you’ll be able to convince them. Answered Mike with a smile and a wink.
Marcel looked around the room, but Mike anticipating his objection said, I believe there are enough people here to protect me this once while you are gone.
Mike thought that Marcel’s smile looked terribly wicked as he saluted and led his men out into the evening. Erman cleared his throat and said, Let us pray for forgiveness of our sins my brothers and for the forgiveness of the sins of others. Numerous quietly chuckled “Amens” drifted around the room and many pairs of eyes looked at Erman. Some appeared very nervous while others appeared very determined.
Good. thought Mike, We can kill two birds with one stone here. The population finds out exactly how things stand and I have the excuse to oust a few very shifty bureaucrats.
While they waited, Mike told the assembly that all of the resources of the city should and would from now on be kept for the good of the people and the city. Mike expected nothing more than any other who worked for the city and there would be no further shipping of any goods out without a fair exchange being returned. This was met with a cheer and many smiles. He noticed that the cheers were a bit subdued and some of the smiles were not very sincere.
He had given them hope, but hope was only a word until actions proved it a reality. He also added that at any time, should this council decide that Mike was not welcome, he would get in his boat and leave. He told them that their city belonged to them and he knew he was an outsider. He would honor their decision even though he would like to call the city his home too. He could hear many whispered conversations, but intentionally tuned them out. Trust had to go both ways.
He made a mental note that Erman also remained out of the conversations, waving several away that obviously wanted his input. A good man this. thought Mike. He wants them to make their own choices and not rely on a single leader's word.
As the little troop returned to the city, Mike was beginning to see some hope for a future, which until now he had wondered about. He knew that he could always sail into the “Shallows” as he had learned was the local name for the area along the southern edge of the land mass. It had many shoals, but his shallow draft would allow him safe passage, while the galleon would run aground.
He also knew that he couldn’t abandon these good people to the revenges that the Spaniards or the Royals would exact for what would be perceived as the city’s rebellion. It was Mike’s rebellion and although he wanted the people here to benefit from it, he definitely didn’t want them to have to pay for it.
Chapter 17
You have obviously confused me with someone who gives a s___.
Less than 20 minutes later, the circus began. In trooped Marcel and his men, half pushing and half dragging the four very enraged, but obviously terrified “servants”. All but Allas were in what looked like dressing gowns while Allas wore a blanket. Marcel explained that he had to interrupt Allas as he was engaged in some rather personal business with a young lady.
Allas had insisted that he would come at his own leisure, but Marcel had “convinced” him to come now. Allas sputtered angrily that the ruffians had burst in and kidnapped him. Mike gave him a stare that made him close his mouth and stand very still. Court intrigue time was over and Allas realized at that moment that he had lost.
My good Mr. Moff” said Mike in a cheery voice that made Moff shrink further into his oversized robe, could you explain to these nice people why you told me there was nothing in the warehouses with which we could feed the population when I now find out that they are quite full?
Perhaps you could also explain to me why you have been telling these people that you are under my protection? Why do you need to be under anyone’s protection Mr. Moff? Are you doing things that might anger others, Mr. Moff?
Moff collapsed into his robe and would have fallen to the floor if two of the Protectors hadn’t grabbed him and held him upright. Sobbing could be heard from the robes, but he made no attempt to answer. Either he knew that he couldn’t give an acceptable answer, or he was just so frightened that he couldn’t think. Allas had no trouble jumping on the old bandwagon though.
He immediately displayed his surprise and disgust that Moff had deceived “us” all, trying to distance himself from the “culprit”. A pretty lame attempt at a game of scapegoat to Mike’s way of thinking. Obviously Allas’s comments penetrated Moff’s state of awareness for Moff attempted to reach for Allas and would have if the two Protectors hadn’t held him back.
You dirty traitor, he spat at Allas. You told us to stick together and you would have the new deus eating from your hand or you would fix him so we could rule the city ourselves. Looks like he’s smarter than the old deus, looks like he’s smarter than you too. Turning his face towards Mike, Moff said, I wanted to tell you everything, but Allas wouldn’t let me. He said you were his friend and you wouldn’t believe my word against his. He said you would kill me for daring to speak against him.
Moff, said Mike in a quiet voice, not only are you obviously a liar, but you’re a stupid liar. To which the only answer was Moff’s face once again disappearing into the robe and a renewal of the sobbing. The robe was visibly shaking as if it feared for its own existence as much as did its owner.
Speaking to the assembly, Mike asked if there was anyone who could handle doing a complete audit of the city’s records to find out exactly what was available. One of the older people said that his guild was responsible for recording all transactions within the city and had been used by Moff to maintain a detailed record of all things in storage and that had been shipped to the other deus cities. Moff didn’t even do the recording and probably didn’t know how. He was in that position because Allas had appointed him. He also happened to be Allas’s brother.
What relation are you to Allas, Merid? Asked Mike.
We are cousins,” replied a very nervous Merid, “but I was appointed because I was the best person for the job.
A voice in the hall said, After Micha, the old head of the grounds staff died of mysterious causes and made a very fortunate opening for you to fill. There were numerous murmurs of agreement.
Perhaps something Micha ate or drank Merid? asked Mike.
Merid paled as he looked at Allas for support and found that he wouldn't get any there.
And you Haled? Anyone die so that you could have your job? What relation are you to Allas? Mike asked in a very sarcastic tone.
From the assembly, Erman said, Brother Haled is the half brother of Allas. It seems that his position came about because the inner household staff grew to such proportions that Allas could no longer manage it. So many young girls selected by Allas that were moved into the inner household and never seen again.
Mike said, Perhaps a team of guild people should inventory the household and determine the locations, duties and conditions of those “hired” for service. I realize that it is large place, but I certainly didn’t see any huge staff while I was there.
A rather burly man in the crowd said, I’d like to lead the searchers. My youngest daughter was selected by Allas just this year past and we haven’t heard from her since. Several others volunteered and an almost vigilante looking group assembled and left to begin the inspection before as one guildsman put it, Someone gets rid of any evidence.
Things like that were sometimes supervised by junior members of the Royals, as a way to teach them how petty the common people were. The best that any who objected to this form of “selection” could hope for was to be banished from the city. They were given only what they could carry and allowed to walk the road.
Anyone who wished could accompany them, but would then be likewise banished for life. Any who tried to return would be thrown over the wall and
into the swamps and would become dinner for the wild creatures.
That sounds like a very generous suggestion considering what these men have done to all of you. My idea of a punishment would be much more harsh, Mike said with a look at Allas and his family that made Allas, Merid and Haled pale considerably and Moff sob louder. But this is your city and I will abide by your decision
.
At the last, Allas stood tall and regained his defiant look. He knows something or has some plan cooking, thought Mike, Better make sure no one discusses the planned city security within hearing distance of him.
I’d suggest that a watch be kept over them until morning and we can determine if anyone wishes to accompany them. I’d also recommend that we end our previous discussion until after their departure. Said Mike and he observed the positive shaking of many heads. First things first kids, we have to take out the garbage before we can start to build something new. thought Mike.
Chapter 18
And don’t slam the door behind you!
Morning found Mike again sleeping in his own cabin. No one had offered him a room at the government center and he was happy they hadn’t. His boat was still the most secure place he could think of in this new world. The night before, he had amazed Marcel by turning on a light in the main salon of the boat. Marcel said he had never seen such a thing.
Mike asked him about the lighting in the houses and Marcel just said it was a secret known to the building guild only and that it was not available at a command like the lights on Mike’s boat. It always stayed the same and beds had to have covers and curtains to darken them for sleeping.
After a quick breakfast, Mike and the Protectors headed for the guildhall of the previous night and found what had to be the entire population waiting quietly. Every rooftop was packed, but the street in front of the building was empty except for the guildsmen of the night before, Erman, the “servants” and about 25 men and women who Mike hadn’t seen before.
Erman introduced them as members of the “servants” families who would be joining them in exile. Mike didn’t ask if they had volunteered or been ordered to leave by the guildsmen, as many were crying and looking around in genuine fear.
