Chapter 14
BEFORE JOHANNA had left the markets, there was a to-do at the mayor’s house. While she had talked to Leo, more people had gathered in front of the house, kept away from the steps that led up to the front door by a handful of guards.
The door to the house and a third guard came out, holding a trumpet with blue tassels. Some people cheered, others called out, holding out their hands like beggars.
The man stopped right in front of the railing at the top of the steps and faced the crowd. He put the trumpet to his mouth and played a fanfare, loud and clear. The sound echoed over the square
The door opened again and a man dressed in blue appeared on the top of the steps. Blue cape, blue trousers, blue jacket and a white shirt with excessive ruffles. He was thin and wore his honey-
